Author's Note: Dearest readers, I want to wish you all a very festive holiday season. I want to thank you kindly for all of your love and support as this story continues to grow. Over the last few months, "The Frozen Force" has seen even greater growth and my heart is just leaping over these new readers. We have some very special review shoutouts as we get closer to 300 REVIEWS!
This week, we roast our tip-yip and raise our glasses of meiloorun juice to: grimmouse197, CJG, Starpottergeek, 0x15, and one of our lovely guest reviewers!
Thank you all so much and long live your imaginations!
~ Michael
Chapter: 93 I'll Be Home For Life Day (Part I)
"Sometimes, choosing to get out of bed is the bravest action you can take."
Endless festivity! No amount of war can stop the merriest of days from reaching the galaxy's citizens. Across the stars, Life Day celebrations are underway. But while discounts soar in shopping malls, public opinion over the Jedi continues to plummet. In an effort to shed positive light on the Republic's protectors, Senator Padmé Amidala organizes a charity event with Jedi assistance. Meanwhile, Jedi Knight Anna Dellian prepares herself for the ultimate challenge...
"Steady, brothers..." Anna Dellian whispered to her squadmates. "Steady..."
"You know," Lieutenant Sparx replied. "There's no evidence to support that repeatedly saying 'steady' in a situation actually makes people any steadier."
"Shh!" Speedy quieted him down. "Respectfully sir, I'm trying to concentrate."
Sparx huffed while Blazer braced himself. Each Deathchaser was stationed across the Legacy's crew quarters with a datapad in their hands. "We've got to be quick," the sergeant murmured while glaring at his handheld screen. "We're only gonna have one shot at this."
Anna's body stiffened while tightly gripping her datapad. Sweat trickled down her forehead as her index finger hovered over the screen. Her eyes darted towards the nearby clock and she gulped.
"HoloNet connection is at full strength," Sparx affirmed.
"T-minus ten seconds," Anna declared and all faces turned to their respective datapads. "Five...four..." Each Deathchaser raised a finger and prepared to strike. "Three...two...one!"
The clock struck midnight Coruscant time as each of their datapads launched a window. While Sparx and Blazer were along for the ride, Anna and Speedy were ecstatic as tickets opened for "Krykna-Man: No Way Home."
"Go! Go! Go!" Anna shouted and repeatedly tapped on her screen. "Front row seats, center seats, or anything you can get!"
"No! No! No!" Blazer growled. "My datapad's crashing! Everyone and their kriffing mother is trying to nab tickets."
"Don't give up," Anna assured and selected a showtime. "Aha!" she rejoiced only to have her datapad crash as well. "Kriffing hell!"
"Don't look at me," Sparx lamented. "I'm afraid mine crashed before I could even select the holomovie."
"Remember what's at stake here," Anna asserted. "If we don't see thismovie on opening night, there'll be spoilers all over the HoloNet! Speedy...it's all on you, brother!"
Anna, Blazer, and Sparx huddled around as Speedy swiped away. "I don't believe it," Blazer uttered. "He's in!"
"Don't jinx it," Anna grumbled while looming over Speedy.
The trooper's cybernetic legs rattled with anticipation as he completed each step in the process. "First showing," Speedy said while tapping on the theater. "Four tickets!" He cheered. "Selecting seats...middle row!"
"Thataboy!" Blazer impulsively shouted until Anna quelled him.
"And now-" Speedy said with a final swipe. "Checkout!" All of the troopers' reinvigorated spirits were drained at the sight of a single...frozen screen. "I said...checkout," he reiterated and tried swiping to the next step. Speedy shook his head in disbelief. "Oh come on. Not when we're this close. No. I just selected the seats and-" The screen shifted to a unique label from the theater. The likes of which read:
SERVER DOWN
Anna stomped away from Speedy and angrily tugged at her hair. "Son of a-...nerfherding-...motherkriffing-..." Anna looked like she was about to explode and practically did. Her flustered roar had the clones wincing.
While Blazer sulked and Sparx sighed, Speedy was still staring at his crashed screen in disbelief.
"But...I had the tickets," the trooper insisted. "They were right there. I saw them!"
"Apparently so did thousands of other Coruscanti," Sparx replied.
Enraged, Anna picked up her datapad and flung it at the wall. It smashed to pieces against the doorframe just as Admiral Shang stepped in. "What the?" he blurted and observed the clattering pieces.
"I'll clean it up," Anna groaned.
"Is it Jedi custom to break things on Life Day?" Shang asked.
His inquiry nearly made Anna's brain stop working. With widened eyes and a twitching nose, she realized how quickly the holiday had snuck up on her. "Is-is that today?"
"As of-" Shang checked his personal chronometer. "-two minutes ago. Yes."
Without missing a beat, Speedy tossed his datapad aside and declared, "Happy Life Day!" Anna faceplanted on her bed while Blazer facepalmed.
GOLDENHEART STORIES PRESENTS
A MICHAEL J. PINEDA PRODUCTION
THE FROZEN FORCE HOLIDAY SPECIAL II
Gentle rays of sunlight crept through the clouds and glistened towards a tinted window. They barely cast a glare against a wall-mounted datascreen, which depicted the Republic's latest news. Donning a red jacket with a fluffy white trim, Belle O'Har was live with a report from the Collective Commerce District. "Good morning, Coruscant!" Belle greeted as her camera droid recorded. "And a very Happy Life Day to all. I'm in CoCo Town, where festivities are just getting started. There's joy in the streets as local businesses are thriving amidst the festivities." She stepped next to a stocky Besalisk and said, "Famed diner owner, Dexter Jettster, will be hosting a Life Day sweater contest this afternoon."
"The fuzzier, the better!" Dexter shouted into her microphone.
"You said it," Belle replied before facing her camera once more. "For generations, Life Day has expanded from its Kashyyykian origins and become a galaxy-wide celebration. Today we celebrate harmony, joy, and the togetherness of families when-"
The channel was abruptly changed to a holodrama episode of Celeste. "Oh Levio," Celeste said while collapsing into his arms. "My Life Day just wouldn't be the same without you in it."
An outrageously-muscular man randomly took his shirt off while an unnecessarily profuse amount of wind blew his hair back. "Dearest Celeste," Levio declared dramatically. "I'd tell you how I feel about you, but my heart wants to talk...with my lips." He pulled her into a passionate kiss as the viewer physically gagged and changed the channel.
"We now return to the latest Life Day production from the Heartmark Channel," an announcer said. The viewer's grip on the remote loosened as two young actors appeared on screen.
"All I wanted was to spend Life Day together as a family, sis!" A tall, young man shouted.
The short woman at his side scrubbed the tears from her face. "What family? Look at us? There's nothing left! Some things are just better left broken."
"Don't talk like that, sis. What would Mom and Dad think of you?"
"It doesn't matter what they'd think!" she fired back. "They forfeited their thoughts when they got in that speeder crash." The little sister collapsed in tears. "They're gone, brother! When are you gonna accept that?"
The show became so unbearable, that its viewer had no choice but to turn it off. And as the screen flickered into darkness, Elsa Dellian's distraught reflection appeared against it. Her brows twitched as she sank back into her pillows. A single tear rolled down her cheek and she rushed to swipe it away. Elsa was still getting used to primarily working with her left hand. She would've kept staring at her right arm's cast if Sir Porgen hadn't chirped. The sudden chime made Elsa glance at her nightstand. While the Halls of Healing were reasonably accommodating, it helped to have a little company.
Porgen nudged a glass of freshly-squeezed meiloorun juice closer to her bed. His frantic flapping served as an urgent reminder for her to hydrate. "Fine," she said teasingly and grabbed the chilled cup. She took a sip just as a familiar face stepped in.
"Oh good," Commander Frost sighed. "You are drinking." He set a tray of fruit down beside her and added, "Maybe we can get you to have a full breakfast too." Elsa's pause had him sulking. "Not even for Life Day?" he teased.
"The holiday has nothing to do with how I'm feeling," she insisted.
While he didn't believe her, Frost stuck to the facts. "I'm just worried about you," he professed. "Since the incident in Cloud City, you've barely eaten or even slept. And you still refuse to heal your arm in a bacta tank. That bone could've easily been mended by now, so why punish yourself like this for days on end?"
Elsa sighed, "You've got it all wrong, Frost. This isn't some kind of self-induced torture," she said and gestured to her cast. "This is a lesson." He curiously tilted his head as she continued. "I was arrogant." She could already tell that Frost was ready to deny that claim. Raising a hand to steady him, Elsa carried on. "It's true, commander. Ever since our victory on Scarif against the Revenant, I'd been growing increasingly confident. Too confident. I thought I could negotiate with an entire Union and still aid my sister against the Sith. Believing that I could handle it all, I leapt before looking. And so...I paid the price for my lack of vision." Elsa ran her fingers along her arm's snug cast. "Although they serve as great medical advancements, bacta tanks fuel military hubris. They make us feel like we can charge into unnecessary battles, destroy our bodies, almost die, and then just take a dip in bacta before we do it all again. But giving myself a chance to heal in a natural state has given me time to reflect on my errors. And I know that when my bone has mended, so too shall my mind."
Frost hung his head. "While I understand and respect your choice, Elsa, it won't stop me from worrying about you. Naturally healing is one thing. Barely eating however-" Elsa picked fruit from his tray to coax a smile. As she munched away, Frost couldn't help but whisper another question. "Have you...spoken to your sister since the incident?" Elsa averted her eyes as a twinge of guilt came upon her. Before she could offer any response, a sudden chime came to Frost's communicator. "I thought I silenced this," he fumbled. "Sorry."
"Who is it?" Elsa asked.
"Oh just Donz. We got Admiral Taka's approval for a Life Day celebration on her ship. He's probably asking when I'm going to be there."
Elsa gently rolled over in bed and smiled. "Tell him that you're on your way."
"But-"
"Hey," she insisted. "I will be just fine. The 213th needs you, Frost. Besides, who else is going to stop Rip from burning down the Venator?"
"I suppose that's true," the commander relented. "But I don't mind staying with you. We can watch all of the 'Holiday Holomovies' that you want."
"It's okay," Elsa intoned and smiled faintly. "Now go. Be with your brothers."
"If there's anything you need, you call me!" Frost playfully asserted as Elsa gave him a thumbs up. "And Elsa..."
"Hm?" she inquired.
"Happy Life Day."
"Happy Life Day to you too," Elsa said before he left the recovery room.
Despite being the one who told him to go, Elsa didn't realize just how quiet things would be. The ensuing silence was as heavy as it was harrowing. But Elsa chose to make the most of it as she peered up at the ceiling. "A kingdom of isolation," she sighed. "And it looks like I'm the queen." Elsa glanced over when Porgen beeped. "You can be my little prince if you want to," she teased.
Elsa considered turning the datascreen back on, but more holodramas and movies left her unsettled. She cringed at the thought of Celeste passionately kissing her co-star after such an atrocious exchange of dialogue. "Porgen," Elsa said. "Can you bring me my communicator, please?" The little droid nodded and hurriedly waddled across the tables. He hopped just out of Elsa's reach, snagged her device in his mouth, and ran it over to her. "Thank you," she said and patted his head.
To her surprise, Elsa had two saved messages on her communicator. Her heart sank when she realized the first was from Master Yelena." Reclining against her pillows, Elsa chose to play the message.
"Good morning, Elsa. It's-..." Yelena sighed heavily. "Well, you know who it is by now. I know I've been calling a lot, but I can only hope that these messages are reaching you. You never leave my mind." Elsa huffed at the master's words. "Ever since I heard about what happened on Bespin, I've just wanted to make sure that you're doing alright. My senses tell me that you are...but just hearing your voice would mean so much more."
"So why not visit me then?" Elsa mumbled while listening to the recording.
"I'd visit you if I could-" Yelena's voice continued as Elsa raised a brow. "-but I just haven't had the chance." The knight scoffed at her elder's words. "I haven't had the chance to spend time with anyone for that matter. My fellow council members have-"
Unable to handle any more disappointment, Elsa ended the message and plopped deeper into her pillow. She shut her eyes and hoped to escape reality until Porgen chirped. Elsa barely glanced at her droid as he pecked at her communicator. "I know I still have another message, Porgen." Elsa lamented. "It's probably from Master Yelena...again." Porgen's tenacity was admirable as he waddled over and nipped on her loose strands of hair. "Ow!" she yelped and forced herself up. "Porgen!" she whispered sharply. "Fine. I'll listen to it." Porgen nuzzled his creator as Elsa activated the second message. Within a matter of seconds, the speaker's voice had her brows relaxing and jaw dropping.
"Young Elsa Dellian," an older man spoke up. "Or shall I call you Knight Dellian? It's hard to imagine any of my former younglings as thriving adults when I spent so much time caring for them."
Elsa caught her breath as she recognized the recording's voice. "M-Master...Adersen?" she whispered.
"I understand that your situation has been...trying...as of late," Adersen continued. "I'm told that you've opted for a slower healing process with your injury, but I'm sure you have your reasons. However, it is my belief that some kindness during this most festive season can only help you. After all, no one should be alone on Life Day."
"What are you getting at?" Elsa thought out loud.
"In an effort to regain the public's trust in the Jedi and boost our Order's morale, several masters shall accompany Brith Clan for a charity event. If you're feeling up to it, I'd be honored to have you join us as we help Coruscant's underprivileged. Plus, it would bring me great joy to see you again after all of these years. I tried reaching out to your sister, but she was occupied. If you're interested, we're meeting in the temple hangar at ten. No matter what your choice is, Happy Life Day to you."
As the message concluded, Elsa was left to look down at her porg droid. His bulbous, unwavering eyes continued to gaze at her. "What?" Elsa sighed. "I know it could be nice, but look at me." She gently raised her cast and frowned. "I'm in this condition because of my own arrogance. What impression would I leave on the underprivileged...let alone the next generation of younglings in Brith Clan?" Elsa hung her head and sulked. Porgen's stare never left her as she said, "But...I suppose it would be nice to see Master Adersen again. Maybe I should go. And if nothing else, I can show the other Jedi what happens if we don't keep our egos in check!" A smile formed on Elsa's lips. "Thanks, Sir Porgen. You're such a good listener." The droid merely beeped as she checked the nearby chronometer. Realizing she still had time to make the meeting, Elsa dared to slide out of bed.
Padawan Tori Vica was no stranger to chasing after her companions. Whether they were nestled in trouble or running towards it, she always seemed to find herself racing behind. The Pantoran's tan boots skidded as she rounded one of the temple halls. Her heavy and exasperated breaths echoed beyond the corridors and towards a departing Jedi. "Master?" Tori panted and sprinted to catch up. "Master!"
The Tholothian came to a halt. She glanced over her shoulder with a concerned, yet calming blue gaze. There was a softness to it that Jedi Master Adi Gallia had become known for. "Padawan?" she worried after noticing Tori's nervous state. "What's going on? What are you doing here?"
"I can't let you go," Tori insisted while catching her breath. "I've heard the stories and read the reports. Maul and his brother are too powerful! Look what they did to the Dellians just last week. Now two more Jedi are dead and-"
"And that is why the Jedi Council has agreed to send two of its ownon this investigation," Gallia intoned. She raised her hand to quell Tori's nerves. "This is not a situation to be taken lightly. Have faith in the Force, my apprentice."
"I do," Tori countered with controlled abrasiveness. "I just-" she clenched her fist and anxiously bit her lip. "I can't lose you too. Please, just let me help."
"Tori," Gallia asserted while remaining calm. "You say you have faith in the Force, yet you do not show it." The Pantoran grew frustrated until her master gripped her shoulders. "Breathe with me. Stay in the moment as neither a prisoner of your past nor future." Tori took a deep breath as Gallia continued. "The fear of loss can blind a Jedi. It is one of many winding paths to the Dark Side. Those who have become part of the Living Force carry on in our actions. The same actions we must trust ourselves with moving forward. Now listen closely, young one." Tori sulked and lifted her head. "The Republic has received a distress signal. Given its close proximity to Maul's previous attack, we can't take any chances. Master Kenobi and I will follow the signal to its source."
"But what if it's a trap?" Tori blurted. "What if-"
"Padawan," Gallia sighed. "You are too concerned with what could be instead of what is. Remember what I've told you."
"Focus on the fundamentals," Tori mumbled.
"Concentrate and all of this will soon come to pass," Gallia assured. Noticing her apprentice's lingering distress, the master offered a suggestion. "You know, there is one way you can help me."
High in the temple security chambers, a pair of purple hands were hard at work. As Jedi Master Zodra inputed several codes, she felt someone soothingly rub her back. She leaned in to her companion's touch amidst the shadows. "You know-" Zodra whispered. "-you can be very distracting."
Mattias' chuckle was as calming as it was jovial. "Is that a problem?" he teased and massaged Zodra's shoulders. The chamber was quiet enough for her softest sighs to echo down the aisles.
"Not in the slightest," she quipped and leaned into his touch. The Nautolan's long tendrils rested against his fingers as he increased pressure. Zodra smiled as the ensuing relief helped her fingers relax. "And...done." With a final click, she locked a panel into place and observed her invention. "It's finished, dear," she sighed. "The Jedi Beacon is actually finished!"
"I've watched you work on this project for months on end," Mattias replied. "I'm honored to witness the fruits of your labor."
"Thank you," Zodra said and peered up at Mattias. As she caressed his scruffy face, she looked beyond age and saw the young Padawan she'd fallen in love with. "Happy Life Day," she whispered and tilted her head towards his. Zodra spun to meet his embrace as they shared a kiss under the beacon's glow. As they lost themselves in each other's company, Mattias considered the joy she brought him. Everything he'd professed to Hans about the war had been true, and he was losing sight of any victorious outcome. Yet amidst the uncertainty and beyond Jedi doctrine, his feelings for Zodra were true. They kept an elder like him grounded when nothing else made sense.
The chime of Mattias' comlink snapped him back into reality. Zodra watched curiously as he hurriedly retrieved the device. "Hello?" he answered. Zodra smiled as he said, "Anna! Happy Life Day. What are you-" She watched as his brows knitted with intrigue. "Wait? You need me? What's going on?" He glanced over at Zodra, who urged him to help Anna. Although hesitant, Mattias ultimately obliged. "Sure," he responded. "I'll meet you on the Legacy."
"Everything alright?" Zodra asked as Mattias ended the call.
"Anna's received a new mission from Watcher," Mattias answered. "But she asked me to join her. It's been quite some time since she's done that."
"Well maybe she's trying to spend more time with you," Zodra suggested. "It is Life Day after all." The Nautolan noticed his hesitation and gripped his hands. "Hey," she assured. "I'll be fine. I want you to go."
"It doesn't make this any easier," Mattias replied. "I'll make this up to you," he insisted and kissed her hands. "I promise."
Elsa was no stranger to wandering and lingering eyes. Ever since she was a youngling, she'd grown accustomed to the stares. After all, if they weren't ignoring her...they were gawking at her. As Elsa traversed the temple's expansive halls, she was met with concerned gazes. Jedi of all ages looked at her arm cast while rumors of what happened swirled in their minds. The story had changed repeatedly over the week. While some heard that she'd gone toe to toe with Maul, others believed she'd survived torture at his hands. Either way, many were too afraid to ask for the truth. They also still couldn't understand why she refused to heal her arm in a bacta tank. Elsa was tired of explaining herself to others and proceeded to the hangar.
Upon arriving, Elsa was met by the curious glances of numerous Jedi. And yet betwixt a band of unknown faces, a twinge of familiarity reached Elsa's senses. It was melancholic at first as she observed an Aqualish and Ithorian master. She hadn't seen either woman since the Corellian Cup tryouts. At least that was the last memory she chose to keep of Masters Beetra and Kalia. No amount of time could shroud the grievous sight of seeing both masters at their Padawans' funerals. Velti and Dokin had become distant echoes within Elsa's mind, but the pain emerged just the same. Yet after all of this time, the fallen youths' masters seemed as lively as ever.
"Elsa?" Master Kalia inquired. The old Ithorian squinted her eyestalks for a closer look. "Can it truly be?"
"It is!" Beetra added as her tusks quivered. Her four, arachnid-like eyes blinked in astonishment. Although she was stout compared to her towering counterpart, Master Beetra was quick to approach Elsa. "How good it is to see you again," she greeted. While she wanted to pull Elsa into a considerate embrace, the knight responded with a respectful bow instead.
"It's nice to see you both as well," she assured. "Happy Life Day."
"And to you as well," Kalia responded. "We were all so sorry to hear about what happened on Bespin."
Which version did you hear? Elsa quipped to herself. "Oh I'm alright," she answered instead and tried to divert attention away from her arm. Her eyes listed towards a group of assembled younglings. "Looking at them takes me back," Elsa remarked. "It feels like only yesterday since I was one of Master Adersen's pupils."
"I swear-" Beetra commented. "-the younglings look stronger each year. Think we can keep up?" she asked while nudging Kalia.
"What do you mean?" Elsa queried.
"Just look at the children, dear." Beetra said and gestured to the clan. "They've reached the proper age for apprenticeship. And according to Master Adersen, their performances in the Initiate Trials were impressive."
"Most impressive," Kalia added while observing the younglings. "This charity event will help us scout potential Padawans." Elsa's raised brows spoke volumes as the Ithorian continued. "We've grieved long enough, young Dellian. Despite the Order urging us to move forward immediately, Beetra and I had to do so at our own pace."
"Nothing can ever replace the students we lost on Scarif," Beetra grieved. "But their legacies will live on through the Force, exemplified by the actions we take today."
"Now is a time of celebration, not mourning." Kalia expressed. "The next generation is counting on mentors like us to lead them into a brighter tomorrow."
"Will you be taking an apprentice?" Beetra asked Elsa. The abrupt question caught the knight completely off guard.
"Excuse me?" she stammered. "I-...no. I'm just here to help with the charity event."
"Apologies," Beetra answered while her eyes trailed off. "It was rather bold of me to assume such. You're just so mature for your age."
"One thing's for certain," Kalia added. "You'd make a fine mentor."
The comment left a sour taste in Elsa's mouth. "While your words are appreciated," she said. "I've got one great reason why I shouldn't be teaching anyone." Elsa gently lifted her cast and glowered.
As the masters exchanged perplexed glances, Elsa sensed a familiar presence entering the hangar. "Well this is a Life Day surprise," she commented as a Pantoran Padawan jogged over. "Tori? I didn't know you'd be here too."
"Nor I you," Tori responded. Her golden gaze kept listing towards Elsa's arm. "Shouldn't you be resting?"
"I wanted to stretch my legs," Elsa answered and it was enough for Tori to shrug. She could sense the Padawan's festering anxiety. "Where's your master?" Elsa asked.
"Master Gallia's been assigned to an investigation with Master Kenobi," Tori answered hesitantly. Noticing the nearby children, she lowered her voice and leaned closer to Elsa. "I think Maul and his brother are involved. But my master insisted that I 'trust in the Force' and let the council members handle it. Like I'm some kind of child."
"Master Gallia is a wise woman," Elsa said. "She wouldn't make a decision like that without considering everyone's safety. Nor would she rush into something she couldn't handle."
"I suppose you're right," Tori murmured. "She was supposed to be part of this charity event. So I guess in the grand scheme of things, at least I get to spend Life Day with you."
Elsa smiled until an elder's voice had both her and Tori gasping. "Well, well, well..." a man declared. The women spun to see an elderly Jedi master. His dark, curly tresses had greyed over the years. Yet no matter how much time passed, nothing could quell Master Cristan Adersen's cheeriness. "Elsa Dellian! Tori Vica!" he rejoiced in such a way that tears were already forming in her eyes. "By the Force, look how much you've grown. Younglings no longer...but brilliant young women. I'm so glad you could both make it!"
"It's an honor to see you again," Elsa greeted her former clan leader with a bow as Tori did the same.
"Regretfully, Master Gallia couldn't make it." Tori added. "But I am here for us both."
"It's quite alright," Adersen assured. "After all, a Jedi's life is hardly filled with dillydallying. I'm sure she has important matters to tend to as well. And speaking of importance!" Adersen raised his hands and eagerly beckoned the younglings over. "Students of Brith Clan!" he announced. "Gather around! Gather around!" As the children assembled, Tori and Elsa reimagined themselves as students in the group. Once everyone was assembled into the center of the hangar, Adersen raised his voice once more. "Today, many planets celebrate a festive holiday. Life Day is about unity and the love we show others. In a time when so much is twisted by war, I can't think of a better day to spread a better message. As Jedi, we have a chance to show the Republic what we truly stand for and give back to the community which we call home. In cooperation with Senator Amidala of Naboo-" Elsa's eyes lit up at the mention of Padmé's name. "-we will be distributing food and fresh blankets to one of Coruscant's underprivileged districts." Adersen approached his clan. "We have some very special guests joining us today, younglings. May I introduce Masters Beetra and Kalia." The elders nodded as Adersen carried on. "And as a wonderful surprise, you'll be joined by two former members of Brith Clan! Knight Elsa Dellian and Padawan Tori Vica!"
No matter who Adersen announced or how much enthusiasm he showed, the children appeared unamused. If anything, the rumors about Elsa had reached them as well because none of them could stop staring at her cast. And yet amidst the cluster of curious faces, one child stuck out to Elsa. His mostly human classmates made his lavender skin all the more noticeable. A trio of short horns extended from each side of his head, reminding Elsa of Chela Tuzi. She hadn't met many Theelin, but their brightly-colored hair was easily recognizable. The boy's blue and wavy locks were brushed into a single, upward swoop. Regardless of his unique features, none were alluring than his curious gaze. His wide, teal eyes observed Elsa from head to toe. It was as if he was taking in every detail of her appearance. He only stopped when he noticed Elsa staring back at him. Curiosity turned to confusion as the child averted his gaze and fidgeted with his sleeve.
The roar of a ship's engine had Elsa looking elsewhere. "Here's our transport now," Adersen declared. "All aboard!"
As Tori advanced up the ramp, she couldn't help but peer back and ask, "You okay, Elsa?"
"Of course. I can just get too much in my head sometimes and-" Tori pointed at her arm. "Oh...oh you meant-...yeah. I'm fine." Tori didn't accept her companion's answer and squinted suspiciously as they boarded the craft.
The Legacy warped through hyperspace's indigo vortex. Wild waves of inter-dimensional energy pulsed across the viewport as Master Mattias stood on the bridge. He couldn't help but smile while observing Shang's crew hard at work. "Something on your mind, sir?" the young admiral asked.
Mattias nodded. "It's hard to believe that this entire ship was once encased in ice. Left to be forgotten by the galaxy." He chuckled and patted Shang's back. "How far things have come, hm?"
"I couldn't agree more, sir."
"Your father would be very proud of you. And please, call me Mattias." A Jedi's heavy sigh had the master smirking. "Are you still bummed about those holomovie tickets, Anna?"
His former apprentice slouched against the bridge's holotable. "What gave it away?" she moped. "You don't understand, Mattias. Seeing Krykna-Man on opening night is the only way to avoid spoilers."
"Don't you live enough of an adventure as it is?" Shang asked. "Is a holomovie really that important?"
Anna glared at her admiral while the Deathchasers and Mattias braced themselves. "Of course it is," she affirmed. "Because no matter what crazy stuff happens in those holomovies, I know Krykna-Man is gonna win in the end. And that is all of the serotonin I need." Anna's confident demeanor faltered for a moment. "But when it comes to real life...hell, I don't know what's gonna happen. I can tell myself that we're gonna pull through a thousand times. But that doesn't mean I won't be concerned about things going wrong."
"General?" Blazer worried.
Anna bit her lip, but realized there wasn't any turning back from her conversation. "I was scared outta my mind when we were racing to stop the hyper-nukes. Adrenaline got me through, but I kept thinking about what would happen if the clock reached zero. We pulled through just like every other time, but that feeling stayed. And I can't get away from it because I'm almost addicted to cutting it close." Anna shook her head as she thought about Elsa. "Until things get so close, that you almost lose the people you care about. They get hurt and you question everything all over again." Anna freed herself of such daunting thoughts and forced a smile. "So if I need to dissociate into a movie about some guy getting bitten by a radioactive krykna spider, so be it."
In that instant, the holotable at Anna's side powered up. Watcher's stern face emerged as she greeted the Legacy team. She raised her brows at Mattias and said, "Master Jedi...it's been a while."
"So it has," Mattias replied. "Anna asked me to tag along. I do hope that's alright."
"Well it is Life Day," Watcher remarked with little change in her voice. "Based on the call we received, another Jedi's presence can only help us."
"So why summon us to Kijimi?" Anna queried. There was a hint of coldness to her question. The likes of which had Watcher raising a brow.
Watcher pulled up several holograms of the wintry planet. "A distress signal reached our ships from the capital city," she explained. "The planet hasn't had a stable form of government for years. As of late, a baron has instituted his own oppressive dominion over Kijimi City. The leader of the planet's underground resistance is planning a retaliatory strike on Life Day, while its baron is most distracted. Any link to the Separatists has been neither confirmed nor denied. And because the Republic is not to be directly involved in this foreign conflict, this will be a covert operation."
"I see," Mattias concurred. "Similar to how the Republic sent a team to train rebels on Onderon without directly getting involved."
"Precisely," Watcher replied. "The Kijimi Resistance leader has sent me her coordinates. I'll relay them to you before you reach the planet. So bundle up and find out what she wants."
Those dwelling within the Jedi Temple were constantly at work. Whether they were perfecting their own skills or seeing to foreign affairs, there seemed to never be any rest for the Jedi. For a certain elder, secrecy had become a way of life.
Master Mar Yelena was still adjusting to her new role on the Jedi Council. It was nothing like she'd expected. For years, she and so many other prospective members imagined finally achieving such a title. They envisioned themselves taking a seat in the grand spire and pondering over the deepest thoughts of the universe. But instead, Yelena's secrecy never seemed to end. Since the coverup of Obi-wan Kenobi's death, the council had used her loyalty for another assignment. One far more perplexing and hidden from wandering eyes. Being the faithful and committed master that she was, Yelena accepted her new task without question. She never looked back and endured each risk along the way. Her new assignment had yielded an increasingly solitary lifestyle. One of which had her fading from the temple's common locales. Secret passages and winding stairwells became her new normal. So much so, that Life Day felt no different to Master Yelena.
She emerged from one of the stairwell's hidden exit points and checked her corners. Once she was sure things were clear, Yelena sighed in relief and made her way down the hall. She was on her way to the temple gardens when a familiar series of beeps caught her attention. Tilting her head with intrigue, Yelena turned to see a white-plated droid scurrying around the corner. "BD-1?" Yelena uttered, have immediately recognized the droid's unique model.
Sure enough, BD-1's antenna perked up at the mention of his designation. The tiny droid sprung with joy as a Jedi's silhouette emerged behind him. While BD-1 scanned over Yelena to remember her, his elderly master stepped into view. While so much had changed since their expedition together, Master Eno Cordova still carried his enthusiasm.
"Master Yelena," Cordova greeted. "Fancy seeing you here."
"Cordova," Yelena blurted and tried to steady herself. "Master Cordova. So...nice to see you too."
Cordova raised a brow as he noticed Yelena's franticness. "Is something the matter?" he asked.
Realizing that the paranoia over her secret assignment was showing, Yelena calmed herself. "I've just been on edge," she bluffed. "Between the chancellor's new emergency powers and more Jedi being pressed into combat...It's a lot, even for us older masters sometimes."
"Especially for us old-timers," Cordova jested. He pensively stroked his white beard and said, "After all of the madness we've experienced in our lifetimes, the last thing we want is for a younger generation to endure anything similar. Or worse, even." Yelena nodded as Cordova beckoned BD-1 to his shoulder. "I'm sure the council's added pressure on you doesn't help. But congratulations on your title among them by the way."
"Thank you," Yelena replied. "So how are you spending Life Day?"
Cordova grinned at her words. "BD-1 and I are celebrating what we adore most," he said. "Discovery!" Yelena feigned excitement as Cordova carried on. He activated a personal holoprojector and waved his hand over several glyphs. "Months of tireless research has finally paid off," he declared. "By translating these ancient texts, I've been able to locate what I believe to be a vault...once used by the ancient Zeffo. If I can find it on the Outer Rim world of Bogano, can you imagine the secrets such a sacred site could hold?" BD-1 enthusiastically hopped on his shoulder. "By the Force," Cordova realized. "We could it! Why don't you and Elsa join us? It's been so long and our expedition to Felucia was most exhilarating."
"If you can call possessed rancors exhilarating," Yelena mumbled. "I appreciate the offer, Master Cordova, but I have my own assignments to see to."
The elder's smile shifted. "I understand," he lamented. "Well, perhaps Elsa would like to accompany us. She'd proven herself to be quite the scholar."
"Elsa's been in recovery," Yelena explained. "There was...another Maul attack."
BD-1 emitted a somber, low beep while Cordova hung his head. "I'm so sorry to hear that," he professed. "Although, might I ask why you're not with her then? Even if she is a knight these days."
Yelena sighed. "If only it were that simple."
"Well why can't it be?"
Cordova's persistence irked Yelena, yet she gave in. "Because we aren't on the best terms with each other right now. I don't even know if it's her fault or mine anymore, but-"
"Neither should matter," Cordova interrupted sternly. "Apologies, Master Yelena...but you reach a point where what either party said just doesn't matter. The true concern resides in the choices you make now."
"I've tried reaching out," Yelena groused. "What else am I supposed to do?"
Cordova sighed. "Try harder," he insisted. "I had moments with my old apprentice, Cere. But I always worked to turn things around. Because I've lived too long, and life is too short to wonder 'what if?' at the very end." Yelena's stare listed as she considered Cordova's words. "When I first met you two, I could tell there was some...shall we say...friction. And while I don't have all of the answers, I know not talking about it won't solve anything."
"I hate to admit it," Yelena huffed. "But you're right."
"Look around you," Cordova suggested. "Life Day is underway. Perhaps your former student would appreciate a gift."
"I don't even know how she feels about gifts," Yelena confessed.
"It's not about the gift-" Cordova quipped while stepping away. "-it's about the message. What kind will you send?" BD-1 chimed farewell as Yelena softly smiled.
"Thank you, Master Cordova," she said.
"But of course, dear friend. Once you two get things back on track, be sure to visit me on Bogano! There's always more knowledge to uncover!" Yelena shook her head as her fellow elder departed with his droid.
Airspeeders darted past the Jedi transport's windows as Elsa observed skylane traffic. Her cityscape vista became difficult to focus on with Tori's repeated grumbles. As Elsa looked over, she noticed the Pantoran hunched over in a corner of the ship. She was trying to dial on her holocom when the rowdy younglings behind her kept chatting. "Do these kids even breathe between sentences?" Tori groaned.
"They're children, plus they're excited," Master Beetra insisted.
"Well I was both once and you didn't see me chatting up a storm," Tori scoffed. "I need some peace and quiet." She stomped past the passenger section and entered the storage hold. Once Tori was sure that she was alone in the hold, she activated her personal holocom and crouched in the shadows. The Vica family crest glowed against her face before two Pantorans came into view. Everything from flour to sauces and spices lay splattered against their aprons.
"Tori, dear!" Datya greeted. "Happy Life Day!"
"Happy Life Day, muffin!" Hoff added. In an effort to be funny, he held up a literal muffin that he'd just baked.
Tori playfully rolled her eyes before leaning into the holomessage. "Happy Life Day, Mom and Dad," she said. "How's the shelter?"
"Never better," Hoff assured. "We've got plenty of volunteers to keep things running for us. Especially since we're so busy cooking here!"
"Mom?" Tori muttered and raised a curious brow. "Dad?...What are you up to?"
"Well," Datya answered. "We were thinking that we could have a Vica Family Life Day."
"Mom," Tori huffed.
"We've got a chair for you and everything!" Datya persisted. "And plenty of mouthwatering-"
"I'm sorry," Tori intoned and her parents paused. "But I can't come." It pained her to see the disappointed looks on their faces.
"Is it...because of your new master?" Hoff asked only to be shushed by Datya.
"Honey!" she scolded her husband.
"No-...it's okay," Tori assured, wanting to give them a genuine explanation. "My master is out on an important mission, and I'm going to help with a charity event in her stead."
Without missing a beat, Datya asked, "How long does the event go for?"
"I'm not sure, but I wouldn't imagine all day."
"Then we'll wait for you," Datya affirmed.
Their daughter winced. "I couldn't put you on hold like that and-"
"Tori Vica," Datya continued. "Do you have any idea how many Life Days we've spent without our daughter?" she queried while wrapping an arm around Hoff. "Last year showed us how wonderful it was to have you in our lives again. Now I don't care if it's long into the hours of the night, we'll wait for you and reheat everything. Just as long as it means you'll be there to eat with us. Deal?"
Tori felt herself growing misty-eyed and took a deep breath. "Deal," she answered just as the ship's engines halted. "It looks like I'm here, guys. I gotta go."
"We love you, Tori." Hoff said. "Never forget that."
"I-" the Padawan bit back her reply and kept herself grounded. "I know," she answered instead and offered them a smile.
As the transmission concluded, Tori returned to the passenger section. The ramp had just lowered and Elsa waited patiently to check on her friend. Tori simpered at the gesture before they exited. From the moment they set foot on an elongated platform, the Jedi found themselves standing in a skyscraper's tremendous shadow. Its wide, multi-colored panes glimmered in the sunlight and beckoned the group closer. Padmé Amidala awaited the Jedi with her Head of Security. The senator wore a crimson dress in honor of Life Day. Intricate, golden embroideries lined its hem and baggy sleeves as she raised her arms.
"Welcome, esteemed Jedi of the Order." Padmé greeted. "Thank you so much for coming."
"Thank you for having us, Senator Amidala." Master Adersen said. "We are honored to help in any way that we can."
"Then let's get started," she replied with a smile. "Captain Typho will lead you to our center of operations."
Her guard nodded and escorted the Jedi inside. As the group filed in, Padmé noticed her old friend's shocking injury. "Elsa?" she worried. "I didn't know you were coming. What happened?"
The knight sighed while glancing at her sling. "The price of conflict," Elsa answered vaguely.
Padmé knitted her brows. There was a coldness to Elsa that she didn't recall from their previous interactions. "Are you going to be alright helping us out?" Padmé asked.
"Certainly," Elsa so casually answered. "I have the Force to aid me." Padmé feigned a smile as Elsa entered the building. The Jedi's detached behavior left her feeling uneasy.
"Welcome to Naka Plaza," Captain Typho announced. His voice echoed beyond the high-rises' grandiose atrium and towards rows of packaged goods. "For those of you unfamiliar with the Naka District, it's come under financial strain over the last year. Many of its citizens have lost their jobs and even homes as a result. Under Senator Amidala's plan, Naka denizens will be arriving to receive individually-packaged bags with fresh meals and blankets."
"Come students," Adersen told his younglings. "Form up behind the rows. We'll pass each bag down as citizens arrive."
It wasn't long before Padmé's event was underway. The Naka District's underprivileged and impoverished entered in droves. As they formed a line towards the atrium, Elsa couldn't help but feel saddened. The sight of so many various species still suffering in the capital was heart-wrenching.
All of this turmoil is happening in the heart of the Republic, she thought. And yet its people just turn it off and prolong the war.
"It is nothing new for governments to favor conflicts over their own people," spoke a voice from within. Evara, Wraith of the Force, returned like a quieted acquaintance.
Elsa sighed and refused to answer. Disconnecting herself from the Force Wraith, she focused on the civilian in front of her. He was a rather lanky man bundled up in nothing more than a bulky cloak. His tired eyes were hardly visible through an unkept mop of black hair. "H-hey," the man stuttered. "Um...o-one please."
Elsa smiled faintly. "Sure," she said and raised her good hand. The man watched in awe as a package hovered off of the table and into his arms. "Happy Life Day," Elsa told him.
"Gee, thanks." he chuckled until an abrupt squeak emanated from his cloak. Elsa paused as he desperately hunched over.
"Everything...alright?" Elsa asked.
"Oh sure," he insisted. "They're just hungry too." Elsa tilted her head until she noticed something scurrying up his sleeve. She gasped when several rats emerged and perched on his wrists. "Thanks again," the citizen said while feeding each of his 'pets'.
"Now I've seen everything," she told Tori, who was distributing packages next to her. In that instant, a heavy crash sounded from behind them.
"Apparently not," Tori remarked as they rushed to investigate. The abrupt clamor had citizens fleeing while the Jedi tried to maintain order. Betwixt the chaos, a burly Besalisk bumped into the lanky man. His pet rats scattered across the floor, throwing people into an even greater panic.
"Now what?" Elsa griped while something crashed again in the back room. She and Tori prepared themselves for a belligerent assailant, not a group of roughhousing younglings. They entered the storage area to find several overturned tables and two Karkaradon students aiming their arms at the ceiling. The children froze up as soon as Tori and Elsa arrived. "What is the meaning of this?" the eldest Dellian demanded.
"He started it!" both sharp-toothed younglings declared in unison and pointed upwards. Elsa followed their webbed fingers to the same, Theelin boy she'd noticed earlier. His utility belt was snagged on a storage hook as he dangled upside down.
"That's not true!" he yelled back. "They started it!"
"I don't care who started it," Elsa intoned. "This is no way for Jedi to behave."
Tori placed a firm grip on the Force-pushing duo. "I'll get these two back to Master Adersen. Think you can handle the living Life Day ornament up there?"
Elsa huffed. "I got him." She trudged over and reached out with the Force. "Hold still."
"Kinda hard to do when I'm dangling," the Theelin griped. "Can I help at all? Maybe I can use the Force as well and-" Before he knew it, he was already right side up and touching the floor. "Oh...or that works." Without losing a single hint of momentum, the Theelin rushed towards Elsa. "You've gotta believe me! I didn't start that mess."
"But you were part of it," Elsa murmured.
"Well...yeah, but what does that have to do with anything? Filz and Keruu are bullies. Those ugly fish are always pushing me around!"
"Hey," Elsa asserted. "I won't tolerate name-calling."
"They call me Speckles! And Hornface!"
Elsa sighed. "That doesn't mean you stoop to their level. Be upset all you want, but name calling back? You can be better than that."
"I would've shown them how much better I was," the Theelin insisted. "I almost Force-pushed them both had they not teamed up on me." Before Elsa could lecture the child, he rapidly changed the subject on her. "What happened to your arm?" he asked and furrowed his blue brows. "It looks like it hurt."
Just hearing those words briefly warped Elsa back to that Bespin night. She could still feel Maul's sinister hands on her arms. His ominous, yellow stare was embedded in her mind before such a ferocious twist and crack.
"So what happened?" the Theelin asked again and reeled her back into the moment.
"I was arrogant," Elsa responded while guiding him back to the others. "I acted without thinking."
"You tried backflipping, didn't you?" the boy inquired.
"What?" Elsa blurted. "No."
"I tried backflipping once even though Master Adersen told me not to. I broke my wrist, but it was nothing a bacta tank couldn't cure. Say, why haven't you just gone into a bacta-"
"Master Adersen!" Elsa hurriedly interrupted. "I believe this boy is yours. He and those Karkaradons there were Force-pushing each other."
"Were they now," Adersen grumbled and glared at his students. "Well I'm sure they won't mind giving our janitorial droids a break when we return to the temple. One week of cleaning duties should suffice."
"Some things never change," Elsa remarked as the younglings returned to their stations. "The Theelin boy mentioned that those Karkaradons were bullies. Know anything about that?"
"Filz and Keruu are proud children," Adersen commented. "They don't like feeling challenged by young Stel. I've been trying to get them to work as a team, but alas...stubbornness is hard to crack at times."
"Oh I know," Elsa jested and thought of her sister. She kept an eye on the young Theelin as he frustratedly resumed packaging duties. "Stel, hm?"
"Stel Sovan," Adersen said. "He certainly keeps things lively around here. He never seems to tire. So many questions...and don't even get me started about his overactive imagination. The Force is strong with his little heart...even if he does get easily distracted during my lectures. In some ways, he reminds me of you."
Elsa wrinkled her nose. "But, I always paid attention to you."
"Yes," Adersen concurred. "But like young Stel, you struggled with making friends too." He motioned to the boy as Elsa got a closer look. Stel tried cracking an awkward joke to his peers, but the comment went ignored. As a result, he somberly hung his head and continued packaging.
Meanwhile, Captain Typho worked alongside Padmé to quell the startled citizens. "Remain calm," he said. "There was a just a minor accident in the storage room. Everything is alright and no one is hurt."
The cloaked man knelt down to recollect his rats. Those around him shuddered as each rodent scampered up into his sleeves. "There you go," he whispered to them soothingly. "All aboard."
"Please," Padmé said while approaching the beggar. "Let me help you up."
His eyes suddenly widened as he turned into a stuttering mess. "What?" he yelped. "Oh n-n-no. That's not necessary. I can-"
"It's alright," Padmé calmly assured and took him by the hands.
"Please don't-" From the instant she touched his hands, the man suddenly stiffened. His head fell forward and made Padmé gasp. It was enough to have Typho rushing over.
"My lady!" the captain worried before directing his attention to the beggar. "Release her at once!"
The man's grip on Padmé's palms tightened as he involuntarily closed his eyes. He let his mind wander as a powerful pulse rippled beyond comprehension. Whatever unseen energy emanated from the man was felt by all of the surrounding, older Jedi. Although the sensation was foreign, it prompted feelings of life and joy.
"That's...that's wonderful," the man whispered while releasing Padmé's hands. A greenish tint faded from his brown eyes as he looked at her stomach. Padmé's bewilderment only grew as the man grinned softly and whispered, "New life."
"That's enough," Typho asserted and interposed himself between the two. "My lady, are you hurt?" he asked while the cloaked man scurried away.
"I'm fine," Padmé was quick to respond. She involuntarily clutched her stomach while thinking on the stranger's words.
Back at the distribution tables, Stel felt like he was losing his mind in monotony. As he finished another package, he let his mind wander towards the nearest window. He imagined what the sky would look like if giant beasts were flying around, or if a meteor just crashed down.
"Hey weirdo," one of his fellow younglings snapped. "Get your head out of the clouds and keep packaging."
"Right," Stel mumbled and bowed his head. It only took a matter of seconds for him to notice something far more interesting. He glanced over at a rattling air vent and scoffed. "How can I possibly concentrate with that thing creaking the whole time?" Stel dropped his half-finished package and went to investigate the vent. Its grated hatch appeared to be stuck in a downward position, forcing the irksome sound to continue. "Well that's annoying," Stel commented and pushed the grating to fix it. As he did so, the slits opened and revealed a crouched silhouette. Stel's eyes widened as he came face to face with several disturbing features.
Any hope for restored Life Day normalcy came crashing down with that youngling's scream. Citizens fled all over again while heads turned towards the sound. "Now now what?" Elsa murmured as she and the others investigated. All eyes fell upon Stel, who was backing away from the vent in horror.
"Youngling?" Adersen asked. "What's the matter?"
"Monster!" Stel blurted and pointed at the vents. "I saw a monster!" Some of his peers rolled their eyes while the elders advanced.
"What kind of...monster?" Master Kalia asked.
"I don't know," Stel confessed. "It was so dark, but I saw sharp claws and a bright red eye! And-...and there was this wide bill! Like a Duck-Man!"
Stel's creative title prompted laughter from his fellow students and several Coruscanti. "A Duck-Man?" one of the citizens cackled. "We get food and a comedy show!" Padmé cringed at his jeer.
"I've had enough scares for one day," said a woman who was still in line. "What kind of charity event is this? The Jedi are a joke."
While Padmé tried to settle the crowd, the Jedi saw to their own. "The kid looks terrified," Tori whispered to Elsa.
"Wow, Stel." Filz mocked. "I knew you wanted attention. But this is low, even for you."
"That's enough," Elsa told the young Karkaradon.
Tori took it upon herself to pop open the vent hatch as Stel held his breath. Upon removing the grate, she poked her head into the cramped shaft. The ensuing blast of chilled air sent a shiver down her spine until she pulled out. "Well," Tori said. "If there was a Duck-Man, he's gone now."
"If there was?" Master Beetra griped. "Please...don't humor this child's imagination."
"But I didn't imagine it!" Stel shouted.
Beetra's tusks clicked in astonishment. "Watch your tone with me, boy."
As the dispute carried on, Padmé approached the clan's leader. "Master Adersen," she said. "Perhaps bringing your students was a mistake."
"Apologies, senator." he lamented. "They're probably just...a little nervous is all." He turned to Brith Clan and calmly raised his hands. "Younglings, please. We cannot forget why we've gathered here. Not for ourselves, but for the good of our city. Now please, let us come together and resume our dutiful tasks." While the group's rowdiness simmered down, Stel remained bewildered. The young Theelin ran up to Master Adersen, but couldn't even get a word in. He'd merely opened his mouth when the elder cut him off. "Not now, Stel." he grumbled and the youngling sulked.
As Master Adersen focused on saving the charity event, Elsa observed Stel's somber state. What reason would he have to lie like that? she wondered. If he did make it up, what else did he lie to me about?
As the charity event resumed, an odd scraping echoed far out of earshot. It traveled throughout the air shafts as a scraggly figure crawled through. The stout and gangly being landed in a spacious, maintenance junction. Dim lights from nearby panels cast blue hues over his scaly skin. While their species were commonly seen on waterworlds, Patrolians had made a name for themselves in Coruscant's criminal underworld. A dark, leathery patch lay juxtaposed against his bright red eye. "The target's in place," he spoke up in a gargled tone.
Upon hearing his words, a bulkier being emerged from the shadows. Contrary to his species' pacifistic lifestyle, this Selkath brandished a set of bulky armor. He stroked one of his cephalic lobes and said, "Nice work, partner. They'll be no escape for 'Naboo's Sweetheart' this time." He tossed a thick bag to the Patrolian, who nearly dropped it. "Let's start planting the bombs."
A smirk formed on the Patrolian's bill as he examined the bag's explosives. "Happy Life Day to us," he cackled sinisterly.
Author's Note: Thank you so much for reading the first part of this year's holiday special! I'll see you next week for the fierce and festive conclusion! Thank you for your love and support as our adventure grows.
Happy Holidays!
~ Michael