He felt it immediately, The weakening of his body , The feeling of the force being sapped from him , The skin on his body becoming paler with each passing moment .
Without even moving , Laying in the sarcophagus, The robes were currently attempting to drain everything they could from him .
Red mist rapidly fled from his body into the robes , Eyes widening as the threat of near instant death drove him to action.
He didn't have to think twice before launching himself back away from the sarcophagus, Flying back onto the ground several feet away as he coughed and spluttered , Weak and disoriented from the mere seconds he had been drained.
Laying on the embankment , obrunik stared up at the ray of light shining down into the room .
" Tapti' Atgal " Ethereal whispers echoed from the sarcophagus, Bleeding into the surroundings as obrunik slowly raised himself until he was in a seated position .
The haunted ethereal whispers quickly repeated themselves over and over , Attempting to draw him in so it could continue its failed task at draining him of all his vitality.
" I think not " With a basic grasp of the ancient sith tongue , He knew the thing was asking him to return to the sarcophagus, Rising to his feet and aiming his fingers towards the lid .
A bolt of lightning burned with retribution, Striking and lid before Rebounding into the robes housed within , Followed immediately by ethereal screeching .
" You'll pay for that " Even on the verge of dying , Obrunik sent bolt after bolt into the coffin , Face contorting with strain before he fell to a knee .
The things screams continued on even after the lightning stopped , Crying out into the force as the hidden grotto shuddered.
" Silence fiend " Making a Grasping motion, Obrunik dragged the lid back over the sarcophagus with the force , Where the things screams became heavily muted , It's rage and pain clear as day . The energy it had taken from nox wasted and used to survive obruniks retaliation. Leaving with nothing but the state it was previously in before its attack .
The flesh on obruniks body stayed pale , Weak and near lifeless , Even as his eyes grew heavy , The sound of the sand spirits and storm still screaming outside of the hidden grotto .
' I need to ... Recuperate ... ' Obrunik fell away from the world , Forcing himself into a force enduced trance to allow for faster healing.
...
HOURS LATER - DUSK
...
Glowing yellow eyes snapped open , The sunlight peaking through the small gap in the ceiling long since gone .
' That took ... longer than I would have liked ' Obrunik slowly pulled himself to his feet once more , Regarding the now silent sarcophagus with Weary but hateful eyes .
' I'll come back for you later ' Obruniks teeth ground together , Slowly back away from its cold surface , Not wanting to turn his back to it incase something unbecoming happened to him .
With his knees lapping in the water , Obrunik fell back into the water , Using his senses of the force to guide him towards the entrance of the grotto .
...
SCREAMING DESSERT
...
His hand burst through the shifting sands of the forest , Clawing at the sand , Sending burst around as he clawed himself from the unmarked tomb .
A large gasp escaped him as he tore his head through the sands , Fully pulling himself free .
His pale skin was dry , Cracked over his body , Still weak from the enemies force drain .
' I'm coming for you harkun ' Obrunik cursed as he rolled onto his back , The calls of the predators of the night echoing over the somewhat calm sands of korriban .
In the distance , A tukata hound looked on , Sniffing the air as its eyes glowed in the dark .
' Pathetic beasts ' Obrunik rolled his eyes and planted his hands onto the ground , Hoisting himself up to a standing position as he glared towards the tukata and its pack that appeared over the dune , Having smelled him from long away even when he was in the grotto .
' Hunting me ... a sith to be ' He reached out , Pulling his training blade from within the grotto , Of which it burst through the sand to land in his right hand ' A bold choice '
Raising his left hand towards the blade of his training blade , Lightning leapt from his hand and coated the weapon, Enhancing the weapons effectiveness tenfold as it became shrouded in lightning . A talent obrunik had picked up during his training , Shrouding any weapon he held with lightning , Allowing for electrical damage that could shock any target struck , along with further cutting power , Not to mention if enough lightning was channelled , If he swung it would allow for a a cutting wave of lightning to be launched from the blade in any direction he swung his blade .
Now across from him , Several dunes over, Four tukata stood tall , Their beady eyes illuminated by the lightning coating his training blade .
' Come at me you whelps ' He growled into the night , He planted his foot in the ground , Taking his favoured stance in makashi. Whilst he had only started learning the forms of saber combat , He had taken a particular liking to makashi , Favouring it over others , And so became somewhat adept in its ways .
The tukata hounds took the initiative, Breaking apart and sprinting across the dunes towards him .
The closest of the four rushes straight towards him , Bursting forward and Leaping up with its mouth open wide .
' Dead ' Obrunik swept his blade upwards , A crescent wave of lightning sweeping from his training blade , Striking the open maw of the hound , It's head and Torso Erupting, Becoming scorched .
He stepped aside as the corpse fell to the ground , As the other three rushed him from all sides , He followed through with his movement , Sweeping around and striking at the reaching head of the second that was to his right .
Sensing the approach of the third from behind , Obrunik turned his body as raised his left hand , Channelling the malevolent forces required to conjure lightning , As lightning leapt from his fingers , Cooking the third whilst the second shook off the bludgeoning strike to the head .
With two down and two to go , The remaining two seemed boldened by the death of their pack , Becoming more ferocious as the second leapt up and bit into his shoulder .
' Bastard ' Pbrunik growled , Teeth clenched in pain as the hound clenched down .
The fourth took the chance and jumped towards his head .
His eyes narrowed as it leapt , Raising his hand to the fourth beast , Making a sweeping gesture to the beast before it was launched back by a force push.
The fourth smashed into the adjacent dune , Crying out and whimpering in pain whilst obrunik focussed on the tukata currently digging into his shoulder .
His right hand dangled uselessly at his side as he raised his left hand to the tukata's head .
His fingers clenched , thumb piercing the right eye of the beast as it screamed yet refused to let go of his shoulder .
What happened next was a matter of instinct , will to survive and stubborn refusal to submit.
The force leapt to his assistance, And he pulled at what appeared as a sort of haze around his fingers .
Something clicked together , A willingness of the darkside and the force , As the tukata cried out as a red mist began to seep from the beasts body, It's very essence was ripped from its body as a stream of continuous energy.
Their deadly dance quickly reversed , As the tukata was visibly drained of its vitality , Body shrinking , Shrivelling up amd becoming emaciated before its teeth fell away , Leaving the shrivelled up , Still struggling bag of flesh to whimper pitifully at Obrunik's feet.
' So this is force drain ' The feeling in Obrunik's right hand returned , Clenching as his eyes turned to his completely healed left shoulder .
' It is as powerful as I imagined ' His right hand unclenched as he turned his gaze to the whimpering tukata before his feet .
' Let's see ' Obrunik turned his hand over , facing his hand towards the dying beast , Making a Grasping motion and dragging the very vitality from the beast through the force .
It wailed pitifully as the remainder of its body was torn asunder , Falling away as its body deflated , Leaving the rest of its life to be consumed by obrunik standing over its corpse .
He looked down at his handiwork with apathy , Hand flexing momentarily as he took in what he had done , What he could feel , The newfound energy rushing through him , The sheer vitality . It was ... tantalising.
And with that thought , The whispers of the last surviving tukata drew his attention, The one he had force pushed into the sand dune , drew his attention to its pathetic form .
Without further waiting , Obrunik stepped forward towards the wailing beast , Intent on repeating what he had just done , All with the same smirk that usually sat housed on his features .
...
PRESENT TIME
...
The star of coruscant hung over the skies of taris , Visible to the populous whom looked apon the vessel with both reverence and joy .
Even as streaks of wreckages fell from the heavens above to pepper the landscape of taris . Trails of smoke rose from the far off mountains where the hull of a crashed CIS frigate jutted out of the mountainside , People rejoiced , Taking In their saviours with ferver rarely seen as they basked in their gifted freedom .
Overhead on an overarching skyscraper , a burst of purple energy coalesced to form Nox ,He stepped onto tbe buildings landing pad, looking over the upper level of the ecumenopolis with a dispassionate gaze .
' So much has changed... and yet ' The darkside clung to the planet like a slug blanket, Even now he could still feel the remnants of the sith occupation of the world from thousands of years ago , Permanently scarring his homeworld .
" I've been waiting for you " Vaylin cooed as she approached , Her hand reaching and sliding down his arm before she wrapped herself around said arm . She fluttered her lashes up at him , Drawing his gaze towards her yellow eyes where he gave a small smile before leaning down and gently pressing his lips to hers .
" I'm here now " Nox turned his gaze back towards the direction that the slave quarters he once lived in used to be .
Silence reigned for a while , As nox simply took in the atmosphere of his home world .
" What did you think of him ... when you met him earlier " Obrunik thought as he saw senator robb kins ship approaching in the distance.
" Skywalker ... " Vaylin began , Her frown clear as day as a scowl appear he'd on her face .
Immediately she wanted to express how stupid the boy was , annoying and short sighted . But opted for a more insightful look after thinking deeply.
" He teeters on the edge ... I can sense his anger ... his frustrations rippling into the world around him, It drives him to be rash ... it'll be his downfall " vaylin expressed er beliefs , not holding back as she knew nox cared not for such whimsy and superficial things.
" Hn ... I had thought so " Noxs eyes tracked the bottom of kin Robb's ship as it flew overhead , Turning in the air and landing next to vaylins shuttle " Enough of that for now ... "
The ramp to kinns ship slow extended , The senator for the planet stepping down, Looking around and finding vaylin .
" mistress tyrell " Robb approached , giving a gentle incline of the head before she finally spotted the black robes figure obscured by the blinding sunlight in the distance.
" Senator robb , Allow me to introduce " The rays of sun finally peeled away to reveal the noble figure of obrunik standing beside vaylin " Obrunik kallig , My benefactor ... and husband to be "
" Oh my " Robb stumbled slightly as a sort of buzzing feeling rose throughout her head , Something she subconsciously ignored as obrunik made immediate use of the force and moved to make Robb more ... malleable.
Approaching , Robb extended her hand for a hand shake " It is a pleasure to meet you sir "
" The pleasure is mine " Obrunik gently took robbs shand , rotating her hand until he brought her knuckles flush against his lips , Offering a gentle kiss to her knuckles " Senator "
The intense hue of his eyes , The unwavering confidence and charismatic features caused the senators face to heat up , She turned away and coughed Into her other fist , Making sure to avoid vaylins gaze .
" Oh Uh... I was informed by mistress tyrell you wished to converse with me about something ... may I inquire as to what that would be " Robb expressed , Wishing to guide the conversation forward .
" You may " Obrunik dropped Robb's hand , Favouring instead to wind his hand around vaylin's waist , Turning back to regarding the city for several moments " I ... require something from you senator "
" You see " Obrunik cast his gaze across to the setting sun " Long ago , When I was but a child vying for scraps in the under city ... I wanted nothing more than the power I wield this day "
" And now ... as I stand at the top ... I look down and I see it ... the same struggle I once went through ... down there ... alone ... in a city where everything and everyone simply looks out for themselves , Regardless of what occurs to the next person " Nox spoke half truths and lies , Instead appealing to robbs care for her people and the world she called home .
" What are you asking of me sir kallig " Obrunik turned to robb , Hand slowly being removed from vaylins waist .
" What I am asking for ... senator ... is a chance ... to make real change , A chance for my homeworld ... where my first steps to where I stand today were taken ... " Obrunik expressed further" I am asking ... senator kinn ... for your endorsement... for you to take a chance with me ... so I and my own may set up shop on world ... a chance for the people to place their faith in me ... and In them ... so we cab guide our home back to prosperity ... to where we once where . We find our world on the brink of collapse , Our world suffers as much internally as it does externally, Pir decline has been a slow but sure thing , Until now where our doom is Apon us ... I just want the chance to change that senator... will you afford me the small relief, The opportunity to do so "
" ... I ... I will see what I can do " Robb didn't know exactly what to say about Nox's emboldened speech , Her mind a daze and thoughts a jumble , She couldn't think clearly , But all his words sounded well meaning , Something she could get behind , And the awe inspiring belief that he meant every word he spoke to her ... she looked apon him favourably .
" That is all I ask senator ... please ... from this point onwards ... I shall leave vaylin in charge as a liaison for you to communicate with me " Nox informed the senator " Now senator ... it has been some time since I have been on world , My memory has somewhat faded , You wouldn't happen to know any pleasant places to eat would you "
" I just might... please... come along my friends "
...
" Is there anything else I can do for you my friends " kin robb asked as Nox and vaylin stepped onto her shuttle , Prepared to head off to the star of coruscant that was ready to depart the system to return to mandalor.
" Not at this moment ... Unforntunately duty calls us elsewhere, Remember ... should you need to get in contact with me ... my mistress shall alert me " Nox bid the senator of taris well as the shuttle began to lift off , Vaylin and nox Waving to the woman as the bay doors closed .
With the doors closed , Vaylin growled ferociously as Nox chuckled .
" I don't like that woman " Vaylin cursed , Having had to spend the entire evening with the woman trying to steal her man had been near unbearable, If the woman didn't serve some kind of purpose , She would have pushed robb from the balcony to the floors below .
" Me neither , taris would be better off if it was under my own agenda " Nox turned to vaylin , Regarding her with calculating eyes .
" Would you like me to ... end her influence " Vaylin expressed , Pressing herself up to her man and giving him a gentle kiss .
" After I have gained an in to the governing body , Whatever happens to that woman is none of my concern " Nox replied " In the meantime .. There is something going on on coruscant , Dooku is about to launch an attack on coruscant , And i wish to be present for the next meeting of congress "
" I shall return to mandalor then ... you know how much I hate such things as the senate " Vaylin rolled her eyes after pulling away and unwinding her arms from noxs neck.
" I do ... I won't bore you with such annoyances... I look forward to hearing your deeds ... " The force began to grow heavy in the shuttle as vaylin turned to him once more .
" I love you " Vaylin whispered as Nox used fold space to transport himself all the way to coruscant .
" And I you " His voice echoed throughout the bay several times as the haze that made up the technique folded in on itself completely, Leaving her alone in the bay as the ship began its final approach to the star of coruscant .
...
CORUSCANT -
...
CIS ships hung through the skies of coruscant , Laying down fire apon the city as the streets were filled with scores of droids.
" They're heading for the temple " Obi-Wan yelled out as he and ki adi mundi sliced through droids blocking their way to the speeders .
" I've received word anakin is engaging one of dookus acolytes in the lower levels , He is trying to make his way to the temple through the sublevels " Obi-Wan announced , Ducking low and slicing a droid in half at the waist .
" These new droids of theirs are rather annoying " Kit fisto announced as one of the confederates new cortosis battle droids simply shrugged off a lightsaber strike .
" Indeed " Mace made a crushing gesture , Causing the droid to crumble in on itself before being flung at its compatriots .
" We must deal with them quickly , Let us hope skywalker is having better time than we are "
...
Anakin stood in the lower levels of coruscant , Lightsaber aloft as he rushed past dexter jester into the nightclub that trenox currently was .
" Its over trenox , Back down " Anakin hissed , Looking towards the bald acolyte whom had his red saber ignited .
" DON'T " Trenox growled, Leaping at anakin amd sweeping his blade around with a wide sweep " COMMAND ME BOY "
Anakin leapt back , Avoiding the slash as trenox Gripping the juke box in the corner , Flinging it at anakin with all his might before springing away as fast as he could.
Catching the juke box with the force , Anakin saw trenox rushing across the dance floor and through the back door , Where he too immediately took off in pursuit in an effort to halt the acolyte before he could reach dooku and the jedi temple .
" Master , I'm in pursuit of the acolyte , He has fled from bentho's club " Anakin spoke into his comm link , Rushing through the back door into the back streets of the level , Cargo and several boxes lining the alley, And at its other end , Trenox leapt past several B2 battle droids over a cargo container before dissapearing.
" Damnit " Anakin hissed, Immediately blocking streams of blaster bolts from the B2 droids aiming at him .
A violent force push tore from anakins Outstretched hand , Hurtling the nearest droid into others as he rushed forward and plunged his sabers into the fallen droids .
With the droids struggling to stand after being toppled over , They were easy work , His saber carving through the droids before he sprinting onwards after trenox.
...
" It appears the count has gotten more bald in pursuing his aspirations " Nox mused , Fist clenched together as one of the counts new C-b3 droids Crumbled in on itself , A dissatisfied grunt leaving his mouth.
Leaning against a stack of supplies meant to be escorted into a club before all this transpired was a pair of jedi knights, Twilek in species , Dead , Killed by the C-b3 droid .
Reaching down to the knights corpse ,Nox fished the teens communicator from the jedis robes , listening in on the conversations taking place throughout coruscant .
" Masters , The acolyte trenox has fled and is on his way to the temple , I'm moving to intercept " Anakins voice came to life from thr communicator as obrunik hummed.
" Do so with haste skywalker , We can't have whatever dooku is planning to come to fruition " The voice of fisto replied over the line .
' Indeed ... perhaps ... yes this would be a good opportunity to personally test the boys current standing ... ' Holsing the communicator in his left hand , Nox demineralised, Vanishing from the catwalk as he moved to intercept the wayward acolyte of dooku.
...
' Almost there ... then the counts Plans can be enacted ' Trenox rushed towards the underground entrances to the jedi temple , Spotting an open grate that some jedi would often use to ... escape ... the temple for some personal time .
" Yes ... I " Trenox's eyes widened as a fleeting pain momentarily pierced his being , Eyes growing wide as his head peeled away from his neck, Body falling to the ground as the head rolled a couple metres away .
" Pathetic " Nox lowered his hand , Having torn the boys head clean from his shoulders " Is this what passes for an acolyte these days , you wouldn't even have passed the trials in the old times "
Obrunik grunted , Reaching down and raising the decapitated head to eye level .
" Though you will make a good disguise " A burst of force energy caused the natural life around to flee , Rats scurrying away and bugs crawling to hide as the flesh of obruniks face began to shift.
His robes transformed into the armour of the corpse below whilst Obruniks face turned to an exact copy of trenox's own.
" Better " The voice belonging to the corpse fell from Nox's transformed lips , Dropping the head as he called trenox's saber to his grip ' A worthless blade ... but will serve its purpose '
Nox ... now trenox's doppelganger, Hid the deceased trenox's body away and immediately made his way through the underground passage into the jedo temple , Rushing down the hallways , Fighting off several jedi , Slicing them away with laughable ease before ultimately finding himself standing at the centre of the jedi library , Laying in wait for his adopted son to arrive.
' With how long he's taken. I'D have been able to turn the library to dust by now several times over ' Nox mused before Flinging his saber at one of the library consoles , Slicing it in half before calling the blade back to his hand.
...
Arriving at the temple archives , Anakin was aggrieved to see several important nodes and consoles had already been destroyed, Leaving the valuable knowledge they held within lost , Whilst the culprit of the attack stood at the centre of the library , Seemingly appreciative of his work .
" WHERE IS DOOKU TRENOX " Anakin growled , Approaching the blade man who turned to him with a small smirk on his features.
" Does it really matter at the moment boy , He's far to busy at the moment " Trenox laughed , Turning away and looking around as anakin approached " The likes of you are far too insiginifact for him to ponder jedi "
" Though it is a shame you cannot fully comprehend what is at hand boy " The double meaning was lost on skywalker whom activated his blade and pointed the blue blade at the back of the bald man's head.
" Stop and surrender trenox " Anakin huffed , The bald man rolling his eyes , Reaching into his robes and activating his red blade in one fluid motion " Don't make me destroy you "
" Your devotion blinds you boy ... " Trenox suddenly lashed out with a force push that sent skywalker sailing through the air across the room .
Anakin slammed into one of the destroyed consoles with a grunt of pain , Eyes alive with anger as he fell to the ground , Regarding trenox with a heated glare " You'll pay for that "
" If you have the power to back that up " Trenox laughed and began to stalk towards skywalker , Trenox leapt at the boy , Lightsaber posed to peirce the boys sternum .
Their battle began with haste , With skywalker Leaping to the side and lashing out with his blade .
They exchanged blows , blades leaving trails of light as they leapt over several consoles , Flinging debris at eachother whilst they tried to get the upper hand over eachother.
Nox leant back as anakins blade passed overhead, before springing up and slamming the back of his hand into anakins cheek , Sending the padawan to the side before slashing towards anakins side .
Anakin barely moved out of the way , Jumping up and landing on top of a destroyed console as he made a stab towards noxs disguised form .
Nox leant to the side , The blade passing by harmlessly , Where nox reached out , Pulling anakin by his metallic hand .
Anakin fell into Nox's boot , Where the entity slung anakin towards the library entrance with a impressive display of agility and flexibility.
Anakin rolled to a stop before the library entry , Groaning but forcing himself to his feet as he watched what he saw to be trenox Leaping towards him with a violent thrust.
' Come on boy ' Nox seethed internally as he landed , Beginning a violent assault on anakins faculties , Slashing vioenlty , Unpredictability and wildly from all directions as he put anakin on the defensive.
' Show me ... show me all this effort I put towards nurturing you has not been for naught ... show me the fabled power of the chosen one ' Nox and anakin left the library proper , Escaping into the temple halls as jedi rushed to assist anakin .
With a deep growl , Nox gripped a twileks wrist , A padawan whom had attempted to interfere , Bringing him into the path of another interloper before he was skewered on the jedis blade.
Anakin watched with wide eyes as not one , But three jedi were cut down in quick succession before his eyes , Trenoxs blade flashing out violently as he decapitated the last two before Leaping towards anakin in a burst of speed.
Incensed at the death of his kin , Anakin growled and attempted to go on the offensive , Of which nox allowed .
' Yes boy , Push yourself beyond your limits , Realise your potential ' Nox roared internally as he diverted a slash to the side , Releasing a force push behind himself to send four more padawans sprawling , A grin coming to his face as he leapt towards them , His intentions clear .
' NO ' Anger flared as nox sliced one of the sprawling jedi clean in half , With anakin reaching out .
Pleasantly surprised at the sudden burst of power that erupted from anakin as the boy reached out to him , But the pleasant surprise soon fell away to annoyance.
For what anakin typically did came to fruition . You see , Whenever anakin would begin to be pressed and shit gets hard , He would fall back on more primal emotions , Such as rage and self loathing at having to being pushed back into such a state .
And so , Now desperate, anakin , Instead of reaching out to the force as a whole , Simply called apon the darkside in a near instinctual desperation.
' A convenient power up, But not what was needed ' Nox growled as he allowed himself to be hurled back into the library , With anakin angrily Storming after him , Lightsaber poised to strike as nox landed on his feet seamlessly, Now less than pleased at the situation.
' It appears a lesson needs to be taught , Temperance needed , He needs to understand falling on such emotions will inevitably lead him nowhere if he can't control them ' He accepted anakins strike and parried it away ' A desperate situation is needed ... where he comes into the duel with heightened emotions , Only to be beat back again and again ... but not here... and not now '
' Come on boy ' Their blades met at the centre with a screech of energy , Skywalker Grunting as he tried to overpower trenox .
" You have potential boy " Trenox whispered , Beginning to press against skywalker harder , Forcing the boy to take a step back as his arms began to waver .
" But at the end of the day , It's just that ... potential "
" Until the time your potential is realised " Trenox began to push anakin backwards towards the back wall of the library .
" You're nothing " A warning through the force alerted trenox to the arrival of another.
He disengaged from skywalker , Flinging the boy back with the force once more , Leaping into the air and dodging the flung saber of Mace windu .
Trenox landed with a smirk, Turning back to face skywalker whom was now rising from the rubble he had landed in " But weak "
Without further words , Trenox turned and sprinted towards the wall nearby , Tearing an air vent off the wall and Leaping in , and as soon as he was out of sight, Trenox vanished , Using fold space to transport himself across the city of coruscant.
Looking toward the vent that trenox had leapt into , Anakin held a pinched expression , Impervious to Mace coming to stand at his side.
" Skywalker " Anamin flinched as he turned to face the cross face of Mace windu .
" Yes master " Anakin asked , Mace crossing his arms .
" Dooku has escaped off world , Whilst we hunt for the acolyte we must convene a meeting of the council , You will attend " Mace offered no further words , Moving away from the library , Evidently in a very bad mood .
" Of course master " Anakin didn't argue , Instead made to follow Mace whilst casting a glance towards the open vent where trenox has escaped through.
...
' A shame ... ' Obrunik growled ' Its too slow... he's growing too slow '
' I suppose that settles it then ' Obrunik cast one last glance towards the jedi temple , The face of trenox twisting back into his origional face , Hair forming on his skull as the glow in his eyes flashed purple momentarily ' you dissapoint me anakin, Your failure to adapt and realise just what must be done , Your reluctance to let go of such feeble things such as attachment shackles you , At this rate ... you shall never reach your full potential '
Scowling , Obrunik slid his arms into his robes , Planning. Pondering.
A deep sigh escaped obrunik as he walked into his office , Slowly sitting himself down apon his office chair .
" From the continued study and analysis of plan B , designation skywalker ... is a failure ... It is time to enact our backup for plan B... I see no path for skywalker to reach his truest potential without extreme measures ... " Reaching across his desk , Obrunik opened up communications with the mother machine .
" What is the progress of the embryos growth " Nox pressed , Sitting up , Squinting as the air responded .
" So far the growth of the subject remains optimal , Should everything proceed as planned , Batch 01 should be ready for propagation by years end "
" I see ... focus all resources on subject 01 ... I want nothing but an optimal specimen " Obrunik grunted , Getting up and walking away from the desk as the ai explained the process .
" My child , I currently having several specimens undergoing growth , Each of the eggs donated however appear to be reacting differently to the specimen , Some show an increased percentage of failure whilst others are showing optimal growth rates ... My child , When these specimens are born , I must stress that the subject receive positive stimuli on a regular basis ... As I am seeing several high chances for mental phenomenon of varuous kinds to take place whether removed from the subject genome or not , It is of my belief that this subjects mental acuity needs to take precedence throughout its growth cycle " The mother machine explained , With nox listening intently , Nodding along .
" That is not something you need worry about mother ... You shall need not worry about the upbringing of the subject , All I need is for you to make sure the subject has zero brain activity apon birth. I will handle the rest and yes ... the subject will be raised with love and care " Obrunik stressed the need for the child to be born under these specific stipulations, Of which the ai readily accepted .
" Of course ... my child " Nox cut the communications not long after , Nox continuing to ponder in the meantime .
" Just because slywalker is broadcast to be a potential failure , Doesn't mean the subject may not be useful down the line ... Continued observation may be for the best ... especially when it comes to this ... subject " Afterall ... he wasn't leaving anything to chance ... too many things hinged this subject to be left to mere chance " I may need to do some more interfering , Ive wasted too much time to simple give up "
" I need him to focus on growth ... I need to make him annoyed .. angry ... enough for the jedi to stress the need to focus his negative thoughts into a practical means ... " Obrunik stroked his chin ... An idea coming to mind ' The jedi can't get him to focus. .. he needs to be angry ... but from what I've seen , there's only a few things that can properly get under his skin , Make him angry , Rage '
" Vaylin my love " Nox called out as the hologram of his lover appeared .
" yes my dear " The woman looked eager to serve , Good .
" I need you to ... Neutralise kenobi when he arrives on mandalor ... non lethally . I'm going to be making anakin very mad and I'm going to be sending him your way ... I want you to push him to his limits ... I cannot put him in that position myself ... I need you to do that for me " Obrunik explained his need for vaylins upcoming assignment.
" And what will you be doing my love " Vaylin asked , Wholeheartedly accepting the daunting task of accepting and honing anakins anger.
" I'm going on a trip to naboo , I think I'll be looking for properties with lady padme " Nox chuckled , Easily seeing the complicated expression that overcame vaylins face before a look of realisation overcame her features .
" I see... I'll be ready to recieve Obi-Wan shortly "
" Very good my love ... I look forward to hearing of your success " Nox turned off the holo once more , Rising and making his way to his bedroom within his apartment , Choosing to find something that would accentuate his features for his upcoming task .
' Perhaps I should contact a reporter to report on Padme's presence on naboo ... Ah yes I see it now ... Anakin finds out of padmes presence with a young fetching male before the two of them disappear together to the lake country .. I can only imagine how anakin will take the news "Obrunik picked his emperor's armour and called for the X-70B to be stationed at his landing pad within the hour.
...
" Padme " Obrunik stepped into Padme's apartment , not caring in the slightest that she had company in the form of bail and Mon mothma , Looking as regal as ever as he stepped into the apartment.
" Obrunik " Padme was surprised at his sudden arrival, But was Jovial at his arrival none the less , As she rose from the couch she was on and walked towards him with a pleased smile " I wasn't aware you were coming "
" And how could I not come to see my favourite senator " Obrunik have a warm hug to the senator as bail and mon approached, Giving smiling but more controlled smiles to the emperor .
" Bail ... Mon, I'm glad to see you in good health after that last incident we went through " Nox detached himself from padme and offered the senators each a handshake.
" Yes , With both the opera house bombings and the latest attack of the confederacy, It is a wander we haven't suffered more " Bail sported some singed hairs , Several burn marks but was none the less in good health , The same could be said for Mon who looked somewhat shaken by the recent events .
" That is all we can hope for , Others are afterall , Less fortunate than us ... I can only imagine the casualties " Nox winced as padme came to his side , Each of them sporting saddened faces at the loss of life .
" That settles it ... then ... padme was going to simply be asking for your assistance, But I would like to invite Mon and bail to accompany us " Bail raised an eyebrow .
" Whatever for "
" Well I was offered residency on naboo and I was hoping for padme to accompany me to come pick out a vacation home ... and with all the recent events ... I don't see why you couldn't attend , these times have been trying and harsh , I think some release is due ... no " Bail and Mon looked to eachother with uneasy faces .
" But the senate "
" Will survive ... " Nox cut off bail before he could send more " Not to mention you can simply be present via holo , You don't have to be on world for every session of congress "
" Well ... " Mon began but was silenced by Padme's fast response .
" They would love to accompany us ... will we be taking your ship " Padme asked , Looking up to nox with a small smile of victory .
" Naturally ... it will be ready for departure within two hours ... I'll be waiting at my apartment for your arrival " Nox turned away and left without further words .
' Now I need to contact the media and then the plan is in motion '
" What was that " Mon asked bail , Looking at padme as the senator began a brisk walk to her bedroom .
" I have no idea ... but seeing as how we've been roped into this ... I think I should get ready "
...
Nox's apartment was bare of the usual guards , Having been sent away in order not to draw suspicion from bail and Mon, As the three senators arrived to the landing pad out the front of Nox's apartment with their speeders and guards arguing to be brought along.
" Greetings " The senators spotted a feminine droid approaching, Her presence something a droid shouldn't have or be capable of as her golden eyes regarded the three senators with a detached countenance.
" I am the emperor's loyal hand , scorpio , it is lovely to meet you sir bail ... madam mothma ... It is a pleasure to see you once again mistress padme " Scorpio Introduced herself as the looming X-70b took up the majority of the landing pad behind her.
" Scorpio ... you look well " Padme gave a small bow to the droid who inclined its head.
" If you don't mind my asking , What droid model are you " Bail asked , Looking over the droid within appreciative glance at her design .
" I am a unique model , I am Scorpio and there are no other models made in my image " Scorpio answered , Hiding the fact that the Gemini system existed .
" Unforntunately , The designs for my model were lost some several thousand years ago after my activation " Now both padme and the senators were taken aback by the apparent age of the droid before them .
" Surely you jest ... a droid of your functionality and design surely can't have such a lifespan especially with all the happenings throughout the times " Bail argued at the droids words , Not believing the droids words initially .
" And why not , Unlike the lower species of droids currently floating around the galaxy , I and my sisters were designed unique with the soul purpose of adapting and longevity ... your notions of what is possible and what aren't are woefully inadequate human , I must ask you refrain from making a fool of yourself with such esoteric and worthless notions such as age and durability " Scorpio silenced all of bail's future words with her harsh rebuttle , Drawing the three senators short at her rather unfriendly response.
" Please forgive my ignorance ... I meant no offence " Bail offered his apologies to what potentially was a beyond ancient droid.
" There was no offence taken . To assume offence meant your words had any significant meaning to me , Of which they did not . The beliefs of the ignorant amd uniformed lower lifeforms are meaningless to me " Scorpio continued to be unapologetically harsh in her response , Illiciting a wince from bail.
" If you have lived for so long , How did you come in to service to his majesty , I would have thought someone of your station would be beyond the wants of man , Let alone one man " Mon asked , Her hidden agenda in wanting to learn about nox easily interpreted by the droid .
They approached the boarding ramp of the X-70 B , Their luggage being carried by several protocol droids who obediently complied .
" You assume too much senator . Your belief that his majesty stands on the same level as the rest of the lower species is both incorrect and misinformed . You lack the understanding needed to have a complete understanding of his majesty . All you need to know is that he stands alone , Unique even unto those akin to myself . It is through understanding I obey, It is through knowledge I serve , It is under his gracefulness that I have purpose ... Keep your meaningless and ultimately futile attempts to garner information you will never be privy to ... to yourselves " Scorpios words were a slap to the senator as she ceased all further attempts to converse with the two new senators.
" How rude " Mon huffed as she turned to bail , Somewhat regretting agreeing to come along .
" Don't mind her ... she's just like that " Padme whispered as the droid began to show them around the ship , Eventually stopping infront of Nox's quarters who walked out now wearing a white and gold trimmed tunic.
" Ah I'm glad you could make it " Obrunik smiled kindly at them , Scratching at his chin as he turned to Scorpio.
" Initiate take off procedures, I want us in the air within ten minutes " Nox ordered , The droid surprising the senators at her willingness to serve.
" As you wish your majesty " Scorpio turned away and quickly departed the presence of the senators.
" Atleast she's nice to someone " Mon grumbled, Earning an amused chuckle from nox as he gestured for them to follow him to the lounge .
" Prepare some refreshments " Nox ordered 2V as he sat down at his booth in the lounge , The senators sitting around as padne joined his side " Yes ... Scorpio has gained an ... acquired personality , Quite haughty sometimes, And she is not entirely wrong at that "
" Whatever do you mean " Bail asked as 2V brought around a batch of beverages for them to enjoy, As they all felt the ship shutter as it lifted from the ground .
" Scorpio has been around far longer than most Empires and civilisations . Witnessed countless rise and fall , She has been around for a large portion of the existence of the republic itself ... do you really think a droid based of adaption and growth wouldnt develop some kind of complex . Let alone a person ... I think it only natural for such things to occur don't you " Nox expressed as he brought his beverage to his lips , Tantively sipping at the drink .
" I ... guess i can concede the point " Mon backed down , Understanding dawning on her features as she gingerly partook in her beverage .
" Now tell me " Nox leant back into his chair , Reclining as he crossed his left leg over the right " Have either of you ever partaken in what is locally dubbed a willaflower "
Hearing Nox's words , Padme perked up as 2V approached with a newly engineered willaflower specimen, It's negative affects removed with heightened affects .
" I ... Can't say that I have " Bail raised an eyebrow as padme gently touched Nox's arm .
" May I " Padme all but plead , Nox smiling gently at her .
" Be my guest my dear " He gently urged padme up her the small of her back as she rose and reached for the new specimen in 2V's grip .
She cupped the small breathing mask , Bringing it to her lips as she sat down back at Nox's side .
A deep huff was extenuated by Padme's eyes nearly rolling into the back of her head before she brought the mask down to her lap , Slumping into the cushioned seat as a wistful sigh escaped her.
" Here " Nox gently took the willaflower mask from padmes hands , Handing it off to bail .
" It helps relax , It eases the nerves whilst releasing endorphins in the brain that keeps stress at bay for an extended period of time , The negative effects have been removed so you won't have to worry so much about addiction or cravings " Bail looked at the mask in his hand with an apprehensive eye , But seeing the near blissfully catatonic state padme was in , His slowly brought the mask to his face and took in a slow but deep breath.
Mothma watched bail nearly roll out of his seat as the mask dropped from his face , A smile making its way to his face as padme regained some kind of motor function .
" That's.. alot stronger than it was last time " Padme whispered , Leaning over and Curling onto the booth whilst resting her head on Nox's leg .
" It is afterall made for me ... I would expect it to be rather strong for you " Nox reached down and gently stroked the senators hair as she released a comfortable hum " I believe it is your turn to try senator "
" I ... think I may pass this time " Mon turned down the offer as she saw bail beginning to hum to himself , Reaching for the alcoholic beverage , Her gaze turning to padme who simply closed her eyes and enjoyed the feelings coursing through her .
" At your leisure " Nox shrugged , Continuing to kneed his fingers through padmes hair , Watching as bail opened his eyes amd reached for the mask " Ah ... you'd want to wait another ten minutes rather than double dosing ... It'll be quite brutal for you to double dose on this "
" Ah ... I see " Bail wrung his fingers but nonetheless accepted , Instead reaching for his cocktail .
" Is this what your day usually consists of your majesty " Mon asked , Squinting , Taking In every detail of the scene Infront of her .
" Not everyday . Most days are spent keeping up to date of the status of my people . Making executive decisions on the daily lives and welfare of my people " Nox smoothly lied , A hint of a smile toying on his lips as he spoke to Mon.
" And what exactly it your home like " Mon asked as nox too partook in the willaflower , His features becoming slack as he say back .
At her question, Padme's eyes snapped open , Regarding Mon with a careful look .
" Its beautiful mon ... Towers of white and gold reaching into the skies, they haven't expanded over their beautiful world , Instead they confined themselves to once city and built upwards , Keep the beauty of their world whilst raising their standard of living. If coruscant was anything like there ... well... it'd be beautiful " Padme rambled on about zakuuls beauty , Giving a rather pleasant picture in mons head .
" Ah ... we'll I hope I'll be able to take in its spleador for myself one day " Mon knew padme had seen the emperor's homeworld ,but she couldn't for the life of her think of any time frame the senator could have potentially been there .
' Unless it was before her tenure as senator ' Mon hummed as padme chewed her lip , Laying her head back down onto Nox's lap .
" Maybe one day " Padme whispered before closing her eyes once more and drifting off into the blissful haze that still had yet to escape her .
...
MANDALOR
...
The star of coruscant hung over the skies of mandalor , A sign of strength for the mandalorian people , Celebrated and cherished by the people of mandalor just as vaylin had become.
And just as vaylin and her ship were cherished by the people , So were they by the independant systems committee, With many gazing at vaylin with a kind and friendly gaze .
" You've kept your word my friend , No deaths , No harm to the general populous , Senator robb was most thankful for your assistance , And the people of taris have cried their thanks and belief in us to the larger galaxy " Satine stroked vaylins ego , The high justice smiling back at the duchess of mandalor as the deathwatch stood on either side of her.
Pre glared at the duchess under his helmet , Bo stood with her helmet removed , Looking apon satine with a small glare .
" And you... I'm glad you and the others saw reason, Joining together under lady vaylin has brought mandalor closer than ever before , And I'm glad you could see reason too pre " Satine looked at her sister and vizla.
" It is within our best wishes to align ourselves with lady vaylin " Pre expressed. Casting a neutral glance towards vaylin who gave a small sinister chuckle , Satine sitting back in her chair with an appreciative glance towards vaylin .
" I see " They would have continued their conversation, Had it not been for the arrival of satines assistant .
" Milady , Jedi master ... Obi-Wan kenobi has arrived and seeks an audience " Satines eyes widened in delight , of which was quickly hidden behind a frown of indifference.
" Allow him in , Everyone go ... vaylin ... please stay " Satine dismissed everyone, with vaylin nodding towards the deathwatch whom turned and vacated the room .
With everyone out of the room , Satine looked apon vaylin with a far more appreciative smile to the high justice .
" I really am grateful for all the help you've given us .. you've done far more for us in the last weeks than anyone on either sides of the war " Satine showed her vulnerability momentarily before the doors opened for master kenobi .
" I've heard you're familiar with eachother " Satine looked between the two as Obi-Wan approached.
" Oh quite so , Though not on the best terms I'm afraid " Kenobi winced at vaylins stare .
" Well perhaps we can take the time to ... mend relations tonight, At dinner ... " Satine gave vaylin a subtle hint to which the high justice bowed.
" Hm ... I have things to do " Vaylin began to march away , Giving a subtle glare to the jedi who everyone noticed .
Leaving the room chamber , The doors shut , To which pre and bo katan came flank to her sides .
" That jedi " Pre growled as they began to march out of the duchess palace .
" Don't worry about him ... I have a plan to deal with it ... " Vaylin hissed , The group marching through the entryway towards their waiting speeder .
" Oh ... and what would that be " Pre asked , Looking back towards the palace as they stepped onto the ground speeder , With vaylin waiting for them to be out of earshot before she continued .
" All you got to do , Is make kenobi suspicious of you , Do nothing illegal , But make him investigate , Make him apprehend you ... and I'll deal with the rest " Vaylin ordered , Pre and bo looking to eachother, With both smirking.
" We can definitely do that for you " Bo and pre leapt from the speeder , Activating their jetpacks , Flying towards the nearest batch of deathwatch soldiers onworld .
" In the meantime " Vaylin fished out her holopuck , Calling for her lover .
" He's arrived "
...
" Very good... commence with your plan " Nox cut the communications, Hiding away the holopuck before turning back to padme currently resting in his bed , His sheets covering the woman as she finally got a good night's rest under the effects of the distilled willaflower.
Grunting , Nox turned away and made his way out of his quarters and to the bridge.
" Whats our eta " Nox asked , Growing tired of the presence of bail and Mon whom , Despite their best efforts , Were failing horribly to garner any information from him .
" six hours until our arrival. The queen has been notified of our impending arrival and has given us access to the palace hanger " Scorpio informed him , Rolling his shoulder as he made to leave the bridge .
" Keep an eye on the senators ... I don't trust them " Nox growled , Knowing Scorpio was also watching everyone on board with scrutiny.
Marching into the lounge , Nox observed Mon and bail having a joyous conversation about their homeworlds .
' Time to make nice ' Nox cringed at the prospect but approached with a pleasant smile None the less .
...
6 HOURS LATER
...
" you have been cleared for arrival " The naboo palace control announced as the X-79 screeched through the air towards the hanger .
" Affirmative " Scorpio replied as she informed her lord of their final approach to the jedi temple , With Nox currently dressing himself in his bathroom.
With a newly pressed golden and white tunic , The exact same that arcann had used to wear , Nox marched into his bedroom , Making his way to padmes side where he shook her awake.
" There she is " Padmes eyes fluttered open , Gaining clarity as she rolled onto her back and regarded nox with blurry eyes .
" Wake up , We're about to arrive " He gave her a gentle pet on the head , The woman suddenly rising and Leaping from the bed " I'll leave you to get dressed , In the meantime "
She watched him walk out of his quarters , With the door closing and locking on its own to afford herself some security.
' Its so ... clean ' Padme lamented as she ran her fingers over the dresser , Humming to herself as she spotted the mannequin that his armour would usually sit on ' But very pleasing on the eye '
Shrugging to herself , Padme reached for her suitcase, Opening it and pulling out and choosing the clothes she wished to wear .
" This shall do "
...
" Bail ... Mon... I and padme have some business to attend to , Would you mind keeping the queen company until our return " Nox asked of the two senators whom were happy to do so.
" Thank you ... " The X-70B settled down with a soft shutter , The boarding ramp opening slowly before them as Nox and padme walked first down the ramp .
" Captain panaka " Nox remembered the man , Though aware of the fractured friendship between padme and the captain , He none the less gave the man a friendly greeting .
" Ser kallig , The queen looks forward to meeting with you " Panaka ignored padme in favour of doing his given task .
" Ah ... Unforntunately I must first partake in other business, Would you kindly escort the two lovely senators behind me to her highness " A urging through the force all but tore through panakas defences , the captain Inclining his head slightly as he turned to bail and Mon.
" I shall do so , Please ... come along " Bail and Mon smiled amd followed closely behind panaka who began to guide then through the palace to the queens chamber.
" What is ... " Padme began , Looking at the amused smile on Nox's face .
" Honestly ... I just don't want to worry about such meaningless things such as talking to the monarchy , I'd rather just go around theed with pleasant company and take in the sights ... I'm sure they wouldn't mind " Nox offered his hand to the senator .
" Naughty " Padme joked as she accepted Nox's hand , Knowing the queen infact wouldn't particularly mind when they would arrive before her presence.
" Perhaps ... " Nox laughed and took padmes hand , The two walking away and out of theeds hanger .
...
They walked through theed at a leisurely pace , With the senator wearing a simple white dress that flowed calmly in the wind.
The choppy waters nearby , The appealing architecture and the bustling populous of the locals afforded then a pleasant walk past the canals .
" FRESH BREAD , COME GET YOUR BREAD " A vendor yelled out as children ran by , Laughing as they made make belief with their toys.
Bells echoed around as birds flew overhead .
" You look familiar " Another child stopped infront of them , Looking up with wide impressionable eyes as he looked up at padme.
" Do I " padme knelt down as the boy nodded " And who do I remind you of "
" I... i don't know ... miss " The boy blushed harshly , Before turning and simply running off .
" Hn...hnhn " Nox chuckled as padme gave him an exasperated glare " A child's crush ... how amusing , Though not surprising "
" Oh you " Padme huffed and rose to stand once more , Though the tint of red on her cheeks was clear as they made their way to the markets .
" What ... am I wrong ... A beautiful woman and with a pleasant smile ... you could go far in the entertainment industry " Nox joked as padme slapped his arm , Rolling her eyes but accepting his words none the less , She gently entwined her left arm under the crook of noxs right , A pleased smile coming to her face as they continued on arm in arm .
" I'm quite famished , Care to go for some food " Nox whispered as padme nodded , Still smiling to herself .
" I could go for some ... "
...
Something was afront on mandalor , And he could sense it . And he could guess the source , What with their constant glares and monitoring his position. Even now as he walked with satine through the Markets of Mandalors city , The deathwatch flew overhead or watched him from the shadows .
" I rather you not try to discredit senya , She is afterall , Doing nothing more than I asked of her " Satine sent a glare at Obi-Wan, Despite the love she had for the man she wouldn't allow him to speak Ill of the people she trusted.
" She's dangerous satine ... Look at that ship she has , Not to mention the death watch, It's only a matter of time before they do something that reflects negatively apon you , Can't you see " Obi-Wan tried stressing to the duchess just how dangerous vaylin was .
" You don't know her obi , she's harsh yes , but not once has she let me down before ... unlike others " Satine bit as Obi-Wan winced , Shivering slightly as he spotted three deathwatch whispering to themselves , Pointing at satine and obiwan before one turned away and marched off into the shadows.
' Hm ... ' Obi-Wan squinted as the third deathwatch flew away towards somewhere unknown .
' I have a bad feeling about this ' Obi-Wan didn't know whether it was the haze of the darkside thanks to Kenya's presence , Or just his worry clouding his thoughts , Obi-Wan wasn't sure how to make satine see just how perilous the situation was ' I'll have to show her '
...
" I can feel your emotions ... Padme ... what's wrong " Nox expressed his worry , Reaching across the table to gently caress the woman's hand , Aware of the media currently recording them , Though with Scorpio corrupting the data pertaining to his face and identifying marks , They wouldn't know whom was accompanying the senator .
Padme stopped eating for several moments as she sunk into her chair , The lively atmosphere lost on the two as she looked at her plate, Debating whether to speak about what was on her mind or not .
" I feel ... lost " Padme winced as she relented , Hanging her head as she stabbed at her food with her fork.
" How so my dear " Nox pressed onwards with a disarming countenance and a warmth flowing from him into the force.
" I do ... everything I can , I want to help , To stop this war that ravages our galaxy , But nobody listens, Everyone just looks out for themselves no matter who they trample . I give and give , I get shunned and turned against at every corner . I spend my days hoping that one of my friends doesn't turn against me , That I don't alienate them or get them killed or myself killed . And even more simple than that all I want is just a little time ... just something for myself ... for me " For years she had given everything , asking nothing in turn all she wanted was the best for everyone around her ... and what did she get , Fuck all .
" You give and you give and you give ... all they do is take without a thanks ... it's just how people are padme ... you give too much of yourself away until there's nothing left for them to take ... you've lost what makes you . You " Nox gently caressed the woman's free hand , Thumb stroking her own .
" What do I do ... I'm tired of feeling like this " She squeezed Nox's hand gently as he smiled at her sadly .
" What you need to do padme ... is take something for yourself . Without fear , Something selfish , For yourself . You deserve just as much as the next person, You worry too much about everyone else before giving something for yourself . You don't have to tell anyone , Nobody has to find out , Just ... do something for yourself padme ... be selfish for once " Nox advised , Disconnecting himself from Padme's hand before focussing on his meal , Allowing padme to take in his advice .
" I ... " Padme drummed her fingers on the table in deep thought " Think I can do that "
" That is good then ... Now tell me ... what else is going on in that pretty little head of yours " Nox asked , Resting his chin on the back of his hand.
...
Sneaking away from the duchess , Kenobi stood over an unconscious deathwatch soldier , Slipping the helmet over his head whilst he already wore the rest of the death watch soldiers armour and jetpack .
Leaping into the air , Kenobi struggled to guide the jetpack up towards the deathwatch speeder ready to depart towards the star of coruscant outside of the city .
" What took you so long " A deathwatch asked as he took command of the controls of the speeder.
" Had to take a leak ... let's hurry we'll be late " The deathwatch looked at the back of kenobis helmet , Squinting momentarily before nodding his head .
" Alright ... let's get out of here , Pre Is giving us new orders " The trooper responded as they took off , Flying to the city exit with haste.
...
Following the deathwatch troopers , He came to a sort of assembly being undertaken by the entire deathwatch faction , as they stood in a massive hanger within the star of coruscant , Where he stood hidden amongst the ranks of the deathwatch .
" We will be heading out to the midrim by the end of the week, Where we have been given strict orders to make the republic vacate , And to push them out of the system with ruthless efficiency " Pre announced to the deathwatch .
" Our duty to lady senya calls us to fight in her name , WAR IS IN OUR BLOOD AND SHE GIVES US OUR DUE ... WILL YOU DISSAPOINT HER ... WILL YOU ALLOW YOUR MANDALORIAN BLOOD TO BE DENIED " Many a deathwatch yelled out loud , Their denials at the accusations , Wanting nothing but to ravage their enemies and lay waste to thise who defy them .
" THEN PREPARE YOUR WEAPONS , AND YOUR EQUIPMENT AND WAIT OUR LADY'S WORD , WAR CALLS " The army saluted all at once as Obi-Wan looked around in great worry .
' They're gearing up for war , I need to warn the republic ' Kenobi turned and moved to subtly rush back through the way he came . Only to stop as he found himself face to face with vaylin herself , A line of death watch standing beside her.
" Isn't this interesting " Pre growled as kenobi activated his lightsaber , Pre jumping down from the podium , Flying to stand amongst the ring of deathwatch quickly forming around kenobi .
" I won't let you go further " Kenobi hissed, Blue saber singing to life , Making to capture the leader of the deathwatch" Your war mongering ways end today , Ill be telling satine of your intentions. "
" You seem to be mistaken kenobi " Vaylin turned to face kenobi fully , Yellow saber singing to life as she pointed the blade at kenobi .
" You are interfering with a military campaign sanctioned by the council of neutral systems " She smirked , Nodding towards the deathwatch whom fled to alert the duchess " You're only mad that we've been requested to have the republic vacate planet they seek for themselves . None the less , You've broken into a military compound , Injured my men and broken into my ship , You will now be subdued ... please try to resist "
She brokered no argument before Leaping at kenobi with a yowl , Yellow blade Swinging out as she attempted to break through kenobi's defence .
...
" Hahahaha he didn't " Padme slapped down on Nox's shoulder as she laughed at one of Mons stories, The four of them lounging within a hot tub on the verandah that lay beside the great lake , The warm water considerably warmer than the lake not ten metres away .
The moons silhouette hung in the skies , Giving the lake beyond a glistening sheen as the soft waters lapped gently against the supports of Nox's new lakeside villa .
A serving droid gently layed down a floating tray between the centre of the senators whom lay within the bubbling waters of the senators , Their laugher carrying across the silent lake , Before the droid rose and walked back through the wide open doors into the new residence .
Eerily similar to Padme's lakeside residence, Nox pondered whether to have it updated to something of zakuulan design. Something to think about later.
Right now, His eyes looked to padme on his left , whom eagerly partook in alcoholic beverages , The willaflower mask held comfortably in her left hand as a tray floated at her side that held her food and beverages.
" HE DID " She laughed about her lovers recent misshap , Laughing , Having finally haven given into the prospect of the willaflower .
They wore nothing but thin swimwear that revealed far more to the eye than most would accept, With nox simply wearing a pair of black boxers , To which many were appreciative of the athletic, muscles and toned body that nox had , Muscle rippling as he immersed himself in the tub.
" Atleast he meant well " Bail chuckled , Relaxing his bare back against the back of the tub , Tipping back his beverage as they exchanged banter.
" Oh I know bail ... " Mon laughed before turning to padme " You remember the time ..."
Nox stopped listening as they exchanged their stories , Rolling his eyes as he leanst over and took the willaflower from padmes hand , Huffing the substance before Sliding it back into the senators hand.
" How is breha , I heard she's been keeping herself busy these days ... maybe you should invite her out " Mon asked as a look of momentary sadness flashed over bails face .
" I ... we've recieved some bad news recently... she isn't taking it well ... you see , She ... we can't... " Bail didn't try to finish his sentence as he sunk into the tub.
" Oh ... I'm sorry bail " Mon reached over and gently held onto bail's arm , Offering comfort to the man .
Accepting the comforting words , Bail chose to delve keeping into his alcohol, A shudder rising over the man as he ordered more " Pua ... thanks Mon "
" Hm ... that reminds me of you and kanya actually , Remember when you and her would sneak away from the legislative program , Don't think I didn't know about your little escapades " Nox gently nudged padme in the side who went red in the face, Sinking herself down into the tub up past her mouth to the base of her nose.
" Shut up " She slapped him on the chest gently , Her yells echoing across the land once again.
As padmes hand came to rest on his chest as she huffed in indignation, Nox's ears picked up the chime of Padme's holo communicator, No doubt an urgent call .
' It should be about that time no , those articles should have posted a couple of hours ago ' Nox merely waved his hand in the direction of Padme's holo puck , Turning it off with that movement as he turned his gaze back to padme ' I'm doing this for your own good anakin , one day you'll understand... we must do things we don't want to .. but you've forced ... my hand '
With the holopuck silenced , Obrunik sat back , Grunting slightly as he rested his head on the side of the hot tub , Planning exactly how to manipulate anakins emotions , Fears and wants .
' His love for padme is pure , Blinding and something that cannot be simply torn away . No ... instead of destroying it ... I simply need to use it to force him to grow. If His jealousy drives him to anger , I can focus that ... through her ' Obrunik turned to padme with a small smile on his face ' He won't respond to external stimuli to grow ... he needs to want it ... and he wants her ...'
" I'll be right back " obrunik leant over and gently whispered into Padme's ear , The woman nodding as he rose out of the water , Grabbing his towel from the chair next to the hot tub and walking inside of the villa .
...
" COME ON COME ON " Vaylin cried as she rammed her saber down onto kenobi's blade. The man on one knee as he sweat profusely , Trying to halt the high justice in her barrage .
' Yea ... ' Kenobi clenched his teeth as her yellow blade raised high , Where be capitalised the chance to leap away ' Not good '
" I didn't say you could run " Vaylin cooed as she raised her hand in his direction , Catching him with the force before swiping him into the wall.
" Aaagh " Obi-Wan gasped as his back slammed into the wall of the star of cosurcants hanger .
All around them, Death watch soldiers stood , Watching the beat down , Even as kenobi slid down the wall , Gasping for air , His left arm very much bent the wrong way , His hair cascading down his face , Drenched with sweat .
" Come on kenobi " Vaylin purred , Flicking her wrist as she moved a crate out of the way as she sashayed towards the wheezing jedi knight .
' That's enough now ' The voice of her lover whispered through the air around her as she came to stand over the wounded kenobi .
' YOU don't want to push the situation too far , We need him in . . Relatively good condition for when the duchess arrives , which should be '
Vaylin looked to the side as the duchesses shuttle roared into the hanger , rotating in the air and slamming down onto the ground with surprising speed.
The doors ramp wasn't even completely down when the duchess burst from the confines of the shuttle , Looking left and right before Spotting vaylin and sprinting in her direction.
" Where is he " The desperation was clear in her voice , Near hysterical as she crossed the grounds between the two of them " Is he "
Her worries weren't unfounded afterall , Vaylin wasn't known for being particularly merciful , especially when provoked .
" Right here duchess " Vaylin stepped to the side to prove kenobi was infact alive , The woman very evidently relaxing a great deal , Thankful that vaylin didn't outright kill the man .
" I...I'll take him from here " The duchess whispered , Looking over kenobi with a gaze that wasn't missed by vaylin , The woman frowning at the duchess care for the jedi.
" Satine " kenobi physically sunk into the ground as the confusion in his eyes cleared , Groaning and attempting to rise before he coughed and fell back to the ground .
" Do as you will " Vaylin turned away , Her stance clear to the duchess whom winced at the political backlash and personal backlash she would recieve from vaylin for picking kenobi over the situation.
' I'll fix it later ... I promise ' Satine plead internally as she watched the deathwatch all but deathstare her as they turned and followed vaylin into the halls of the star of coruscant.
" You're in alot of trouble obi , You've caused me a great deal of trouble to deal with now ... " Satine whispered as her guards appeared at her side from within the inside of her shuttle " But atleast you're alive "
She gently took him in her arms before they were whisked away from the star of coruscant , The duchess Keenly aware at vaylins displeasure with her actions .
Meanwhile the security footage of vaylin mercilessly beating kenobi had already been sent to anakin from an undisclosed sender .
" And now we wait " Vaylin grunted , Turning to pre who walked at her side " Alert mandalor to kenobi's actions, And have the crew vacate the ship , I expect skywalker to arrive shortly , I don't want anyone to come between us "
" At your will " Pre turned away , Smiling openly as bo katan and several others split off to travel to the surface to spread word of kenobis actions.
" Her words have proven true , With satines actions , Mandalor is closer to being ours " Pre clenched his fist , Itching to take the helm of mandalors future " Not long now ... not long "
...
JEDI TEMPLE
...
Hurling his holo comm across his room , Anakin huffed , Barely concealed rage coursing through him as the holonet news displayed pictures of padme on naboo with an individual that was conspicuously out of frame for every picture taken . Even the 3d renderings of the individual weren't able to identify the figure .
" ANSWER " Anakin raged , metal fist slamming into the wall as for the ninth time oadme remained put of contact " DAMMIT , Come on padme "
He wasn't sure whether to be angry , surprised , or simply run from the temple and head to naboo .
His foot bounced on the ground as he sat on the edge of his bed , Growling as he looked at padmes renderings , Obviously enjoying her time she was spending with what was obviously a male .
Clutching his head , On the verge of a breakdown , Anakin curled over in agitation , about to act when he heard a chime .
A personal message had been sent to him , From an unknown sender .
With his recent thoughts plaguing him , He was terrified to realise it was a video log that had been sent to him , Thinking he might have been sent something of padme that would break his heart .
' I ... I have to know ' He opened the video , And before he knew it be was already on the move as he watched vaylin lay kenobi low , Slamming him into the wall where he went still .
He didn't think , He didn't need to, as his emotions got the better of him , Rushing through the temple towards his fighter.
" I'm coming master "
...
' Love is blinding ' Nox smirked as he looked back at padme and the other two senators enjoying their time together , Relaxing for the first time in a long time.
He wasn't going to do anything to padme , Not unless absolutely necessary, he just needed anakin to think she was doing something .
Even now , Through the still persisting bond he had established with anakin when the boy was a child , He could feel his fluctuating emotions, And sense his leaving of coruscant towards Mandalor .
Standing up from the bar inside his villa , Obrunik walked towards the relaxing senators .
" I apologise , There appears to be something that requires my attention , I must depart from your company , I apologise for leaving on such short notice " Obrunik pulled his bathrobe closer as padme looked dissapointed whilst the other two nodded subtly " Feel free to stay and enjoy your time, My droids are ready to serve you with whatever you wish at a moments notice ... I shall see you when you return padme "
" Of course " Padme nodded as Nox turned away and marched through the villa , Turning out of view before Vanishing from naboo entirely.
...
CHAPTER COMPLETE
NEXT CHAPTER - ASSUMPTIONS
...
I have heard your requests and ahsoka will be appearing in the coming chapters .
Due to training for my new management position at work I have had little time to work on said story .
If anyone has any requests at what they would like to see happen during the story or suggestions they would like to offer , I am willing and happy to listen to all , Just comment or pm and i shall respond during the next chapter.
As such next chapter will appear within 10 to 15 days and shall have roughly 20 k words .
Until next time friends