Coruscant (1 week)
Baryl grumbled as she glanced through her notes. Ben placed a hand on her shoulder, but she didn't accept his comfort. She continued to frown as she read. After a while he gave up and left the apartment. He wasn't happy that she'd been called to testify before the senate subcommittee investigating the incident at Caamas. She snorted. Incident indeed. Only a politician would call it that.
She'd testified before, of course, but there was an element of danger this time that disturbed her. Palpatine was overseeing this committee personally. During her months on Coruscant working for Senator Bel Iblis, she'd managed to avoid being around the Emperor.
She knew that there was a lot of speculation on the reason for the Jedi presence on Caamas--and if perhaps Jedi scientists had somehow caused the ensuing planet-wide disaster. None of the evidence suggested that, but that would not stop Palpatine or his cronies from trying to pin the blame on the Jedi. She stood slowly. Unfortunately, she didn't have time to contract some bizarre disease that would allow her to avoid appearing this morning.
She grabbed her cloak and growled at fate as she went to keep her appointment.
#
Ben slipped into the shadows of the elaborate pillars that marked the entrance to the new royal residence. Palpatine would be in the senate building for at least a couple of hours. The Jedi's hand brushed his lightsaber, mostly for reassurance. "Hello," he whispered as a blue robed guard walked past him.
The older man froze. "You promised not to come again."
Ben shrugged as he pulled his hood tighter. "Quar, I just want to ask you about the shadow."
"There is no shadow." Ben watched as the terrified man constantly glanced from side to side, no doubt giving away the clandestine meeting to all interested onlookers..
"You said last time there was."
"I was mistaken. Don't come back here." The man nodded once at Ben. "It's not safe for you here, Master Kenobi. The Emperor does not like the Jedi." He turned and walked away.
Ben waited a few more seconds, then quietly departed. Fear was indeed a powerful ally. He'd saved Quar's life years earlier. The man had been much more cooperative just a few short weeks ago. He sighed as he joined the throng of pedestrians. He nearly voiced the thought that the new palace was a monstrosity--a sign of a corrupt, evil power that had no right to exist.
But a Jedi also knew when to keep his mouth shut.
**Alderaan:
Amidala reached out and took Leia's hands as the child started to run down the hall. "You aren't supposed to go down there, sweetheart," she whispered.
Leia whimpered as she tugged hard on Amidala's hand. "I wanna see Mommy!"
Amidala bit her lip. After all this time, it was amazing how much pain could be caused by one little word. "She's in a meeting. Your mommy promised to come see you when she is done."
"Done?"
"Not for a while." Amidala smiled as she guided the curious girl back toward the playroom. "We can play until then."
"I not wanna play!" Amidala bent down and picked the struggling child up, carrying her into the playroom.
"Shhh, my Princess, she'll be here soon.""You are as stubborn as your fath..." Amidala grimaced as she felt her eyes start to water.
Leia placed her hand on Amidala's face. "Mommy sad?" She placed Leia on the floor without responding. The girl promptly sat down, crossed her arms and pouted. Amidala rolled her eyes, then chuckled when Leia crawled over and rolled a ball toward her. "Wanna play." Amidala knelt in front of the daughter she could not acknowledge.
"Sure, sweetheart." She reached over and grabbed the rolling ball. "Catch?" Leia stood and trotted to the other side of the room, only to trip over her feet.
Amidala bolted over and picked up the crying child once more. "Are you all right?"
Leia wrapped her arms around Amidala's neck and wailed, "I hurts, Mommy.."
Amidala felt herself smile, but she whispered quietly, "Auntie Ami will kiss it and make it better." She quickly kissed the injured hand. "There, all better."
Leia took several deep breaths and started to squirm, so Amidala put her down. Leia ran over to a shelf a grabbed a toy starship. "Fly in stars!" She waved the ship around in a flying motion. "Zoom, zoom!"
Amidala winced even as she laughed. "Not quite the right sound, sweatheart." As she continued to watch Leia play, she wondered if Luke also shared his father's love of flying. Her mind wandered further into the past, to that day on Tatooine when she'd first met Annie. Even then, she'd known he was special. She took several deep breaths. Unfortunately, she'd not been alone in her assessment.
"Auntie Ami?" Again Leia was tugging on her tunic.
"Yes, sweetheart?"
"I have to go." Amidala smiled as she took the girl's hand. Nothing like the realities of the present to bring one back from the past.
#
Baryl Arasta pulled her cloak tighter as she elbowed her way through the ever-present crowds in the heart of the Galactic Republic capital. Coruscant, a city so massive that it had taken over the entire planet. Most visitors noted the lack of plant life upon arrival--even those from desert worlds. What few plants still existed were inside under controlled conditions.
She flashed her badge at the guards as she entered the Grand Corridor of the senate building. The small trees lining the corridor always fascinated her. She still found the shimmering lights moving along their trunks and branches fascinating, but she preferred the green trees of Corellia. Or any tree from anywhere--provided it was far from this place.
She clenched her jaw as she remembered why she was here. The committee hearings had been a waste of time, as far as she was concerned. The senators had been unwilling to listen to the truth. Except maybe Senator Drey'lya. He'd looked thoughtful at the end of her interrogation.
She stopped and stared at the flaxen-haired figure sitting at one of the many benches, staring at a datareader. He looked up and smiled.
"I heard you were working for Senator Bel Iblis," Oli Varsh said as he stood. "Is there a problem?"
"Strictly routine," she said as she started to walk faster. Unfortunately Mr. Varsh didn't take the hint. She had a quick meeting scheduled with the senator, then afterwards she was meeting Ben. The last thing she wanted was to chat with a reporter. Especially one with too much knowledge.
"My sources say that a number of senate offices have been bugged, is there any truth..."
"Mr. Varsh, my work here is confidential--between the senator and myself." She stopped suddenly and faced him. "Why are you following me?"
"Because--" he lowered his voice, "--on Caamas I told you about rumors involving the Sith. You were the only one I talked to who didn't think the idea was silly. What do you know?"
"You should not believe everything you hear, or someone may sell you a vacation package to the oceans of Tatooine."
He laughed. "I only believe what I can prove--and--" she watched as he reached into a pocket and held up a datachip, "--this is proof. A secret recording made soon after the attack on Y'mala and hidden. My source was too terrified to tell me anything, but she did want the truth to be known."
"Y'mala," Baryl started walking again, at a more normal pace. "I was there." She shivered at the memory--and at the hidden personal losses of those closest to her.
"Yes, I know," the reporter responded. "The public report was inconclusive." He pocketed the chip. "That contains proof that Bothans were involved. One Dorfsk Sal'yor." She clenched her fist as she recognized the name. The reporter noted this with a wry smile.
"He was to have been in charge of the investigation, except..."
"He vanished. A hyperdrive accident apparently destroyed his ship. Conveniently dead."
She stopped walking at the elevator doors. "What is the evidence?"
"First tell me what you know about Darth Sidious?" She flinched at the name and instinctively glanced about warily. Oli's smile turned to a frown as he too, looked around. He obviously hadn't made the connection of Sidious with the senate, let alone the Emperor. Then he frowned, his disbelief at the direction his thoughts were headed clearly visible in his eyes.
"There is nothing provable, even his existence." She spoke very softly
"Until now," the reporter said, regaining his former cocky composure. "And thank-you for the confirmation. This shall be the scoop of my lifetime."
"No," she said her voice low and full of warning. "This could get you killed. There is much you don't know."
"You *do* know more than you're saying."
She pulled at her green cloak and shivered. The elevator bell rang and she motioned the reporter closer. "Meet me tomorrow morning at the Galactic Natural History Museum--by the mynock display. Ten minutes after opening." She stepped into the elevator, wondering just what she was doing. The answer, of course, was that the truth needed to be told. She tapped her foot restlessly. Would the reporter believe her? Was there enough proof of any kind for anyone to believe them? Was there enough proof of any kind for anyone to believe the truth? Was the risk worth it?
Oli Varsh was ready to believe, but he didn't yet understand the power of the Sith. She did. It was a dangerous game, one that took her too close to that darkness.
She shivered as she remembered Palpatine's smug look as she'd stepped down from the witness stand. Just how much had he learned from her?
#
Ben stood at the sound of the door opening, then relaxed. "Hello," he said as he took Baryl into his arms. "You look exhausted."
"They asked questions for over two hours. Usually the same one, worded differently. They couldn't see a bantha if it stepped on their toes." They both laughed at the image, then he kissed her. She pulled out a small gray box, and together they scanned the room for listening devices. It was clean.
"Do they want you back?"
She shook her head. "No, nothing I have to say supports their theory. Garm is convinced the committee will lay the blame the destruction of the Caamas on Jedi scientists. Bail isn't so sure." She shrugged.
"How surprising," Ben answered, his voice dripping with sarcasm and vehemence. "Palpatine's pet senators are all on the committee."
"I don't know. Drey'lya actually looked thoughtful." She snorted. "If that means anything."
Ben shrugged. "Perhaps he is finally seeing the truth?"
"Nah, he probably had indigestion." She stretched. "Are you hungry? There are some leftovers in the stasis unit." She opened it with a groan.
"Whatever you like."
"At this point, what I'd like most is a backrub." He nodded. "But it can wait until after we eat." She placed the food and dishes on the table, then sat down and observed him carefully. "You went to the palace again." It was not a question.
He leaned over and kissed her. She glared at him, and he kissed her again. Her expression softened and she sighed. "So tell me, did you learn anything?"
"This time Quar was terrified. He learned something, I'm convinced of it."
"Ben, don't. If you push too much, he'll just die." She grimaced. "Skywalker is not worth any more lives."
"I know I can bring him back to the lightside..." Ben let his voice trail off. He had to believe this, even though he knew too well that it was not possible. "He's here, though." She shivered. "What else happened today, Baryl?"
"Remember the reporter I told you about on Caamas? He says he has evidence about Caamas and Y'mala. In return, he wants information on the Sith."
"Is it worth his life?" Ben asked quietly. "Palpatine will have him killed in some dark corner."
"He can't kill everyone who knows or suspects, it would be too obvious and raise too many questions."
Which was why, Ben surmised, the former Independent Alliance leadership and others were still alive. The three senators definitely were becoming paranoid. His own level of concern was growing about Baryl. The sooner she left Coruscant, the better he'd feel. "No, not at once. And not now--but someday."
"And if this can expose Palpatine..."
She had a point, he reluctantly admitted to himself. "When are you meeting him?"
"The reporter? Tomorrow morning at the museum."
"Not alone. It's too dangerous." She took several deep breaths, then nodded. He knew his point was valid. "I promise to be inconspicuous."
She smiled, then laughed. "You could never be inconspicuous. You Jedi are far too reckless."
#
For the third time, Baryl casually read the sign describing how mynocks eat power cables, then wandered toward the next exhibit. A quick look around the great hall confirmed her worst fears--again. She glanced across the hall and shook her head. Oli Varsh was thirty minutes late. He was definitely a no show.
She made her way toward the display of the ratu. "Nothing," she whispered to Ben as he stepped next to her.
"Should we continue waiting?" She shook her head. They might start attracting attention if they remained here.
"He works for the Coruscant Hourly News. I'll try to contact him from a public comm unit." She took his hand. "We should continue to the next hall." She leaned against him. "Is anyone interested in us?"
"No," Ben whispered as they strolled into the precious gem room.
#
Baryl leaned against the back of her chair and shook her head as she finished explaining to Senator Bel Iblis about the morning in the museum.
Garm leaned forward over his desk. "I don't like this, Baryl. How did anyone know that he was meeting you?"
"I don't know, sir. Only Ben knew. I follow protocol--every morning I check for listening devices. I even used a jammer." Garm shook his head, then motioned for her to continue.
"I talked to the receptionist at the Hourly News. She said that Mr. Varsh was expected back in about an hour. When I called back later, she sounded confused, but said he'd been fired four months earlier."
"Baryl," Garm started to say, but she stopped him.
"She then added that he'd been accused of misappropriating funds. Senator, I never asked why he'd been fired. I'd like permission to poke around, see what I can find. I'm worried that something happened to him."
"I'm worried about you and Ben. You're both playing a very dangerous game."
"And you aren't?"
Garm shrugged. "We're public figures. There would be too many questions. Don't get me wrong, we fully expect Palpatine to eventually come after us. It won't be now, though. But you are...um...an easier target."
She bit her lip. This was a round about way to order her to drop their investigation. "I see sir." She closed her eyes so he wouldn't see her frustration.
"Do you know what he had?"
"Whatever it was, it got him killed. He claimed he had evidence that proved the Bothans were involved in Caamas and Y'mala." Garm winced, then nodded.
"Kiffle," he muttered. "The Senate would love that. The Bothans are not involved in the coalition against the pro-human faction. Revealing this could destroy that coalition." She opened her eyes.
"It could have been the Bothans, not Palpatine? They wouldn't want this evidence revealed either."
"We'll never know. Baryl, finish your work here. Horn wants you back on Corellia. And so do I."
"Sir..." She didn't finish. "I can have everything wrapped up in four weeks or less."
"Excellent. I've recommended you for a commendation"
"Thank you, sir." She stood to leave, a hundred curses running through her mind.
**Alderaan (2 weeks)
Leia chortled as she grabbed a dress from the packing case and ran to the mirror. "Wear this!" She started to pull it over her head. Amidala and Kalla laughed.
"You can wear it when your father arrives," Kalla said as she took the dress and handed it to Amidala. "You aren't helping."
"Excited," Leia continued to laugh as she wrapped her arms around Kalla's legs. "Mommy, where going?"
"To the Southern Palace. We haven't been there for several years."
"Is pretty? Leia asked as she ran over to Amidala.
Kalla nodded as she started to describe the woods that surrounded the palace. Amidala returned to their packing. Between Leia and the constant interruptions, it was hard to believe they would be ready to depart by the end of the week.
"Mommy," Leia said to Kalla. "I fly?"
"We'll see, princess. But first we need to finish packing. You wouldn't want us to forget something, would you?" Kalla knelt down and held out her hands. Leia wrapped her arms around Kalla's neck.
"Love you, mommy."
Amidala closed her eyes and tried not to cry. She'd save the tears for later, when she was alone. There was no point in distressing Kalla--or Leia.
"Excuse me, Your Highness," Amidala said softly. "I need to finish with my own packing."
Kalla smiled at her, over Leia's head. "Go ahead, Ami." The smile faded slightly. "Ami? Is everything all right?"
"Yes. It's been a long week." She managed to come up with a reassuring smile. Leia glanced her way, the resumed hugging Kalla.
Coruscant
Baryl yawned twice as she exited the senate building. There were only a couple of loose ends left in her investigation, and she wanted them solved before she left Coruscant. Ben had agreed to help her with one of the bigger problems: Senator Organa's attache. She was pretty sure he was not involved with any of Palpatine's minions, but she wanted to be able to tell the senator that with complete confidence before she left. Ben had volunteered to help. Apparently the attache had a mistress, which probably accounted for his secretive behavior.
"Baryl," a cloaked figure whispered as he bumped into her. She started to smile in acknowledgement, but Ben shook his head. She didn't look at him as they started to walk in the opposite direction, away from her apartment.
"What happened?" she asked.
"I think I was spotted. I was following Senator Organa's attache, when I sensed I was being followed. Whoever he was,he's pretty good. I'm almost certain it was a bounty hunter."
"How? Did he recognize you?" She exhaled quickly, and turned her head. "Ben?"
"I don't know. I'll contact Horn when I'm clear. Be careful."
She started to say something, but he'd already vanished into the crowd. She stopped to look in a window, then took the scenic route to her apartment.
Alderaan:
Amidala sat up straighter on her bed at the sound of the knock. "Just a minute." No need to ask--she knew it was Kalla. She should have realized the princess had picked up on her emotional state earlier.
"Ami, it's me. Are you okay?" Kalla asked through the closed door.
"Fine." Amidala ordered the door to open. Princess Kalla entered, her hands on her hips.
"No, you're not. Ami." Kalla bit her lip. There was a long silence before Kalla took a deep breath and spoke. "I've been watching you this past year. It hasn't been easy for you to see me with Leia, has it?"
Amidala turned away. "I'm delighted that it has worked out so well." She knew she didn't sound very convincing.
"Ami..." Kalla hesitated, as if debating with herself what to say. "I'd understand if you wanted to claim Leia as your own." She felt the tears start again as the princess also vainly tried not to cry.
"I can't," Amidala said as she embraced her friend. "She can never know of her connection to me. Palpatine would use her..." She broke off that train of thought and instead continued, "I love my children, more than they can ever know. And yes, I would love nothing more than to have my family as my own, all of us together once more. But I can't."
"There's something you've not told me." Kalla placed a hand on her shoulder. "Your dread of Palpatine goes beyond simply fearing he would discover her Jedi potential."
"It's my husband," Amidala said.
"But he's dead," Kalla answered. "What can he possibly have to do with all this?"
"I didn't tell you the whole truth, Kalla. He's not dead, at least I don't think he is."
"I don't understand." Kalla wiped her eyes as she spoke.
"I'm not sure I do either. Annie was tempted by what the Jedi call the darkside of the Force. He's now a servant of Palpatine. Palpatine will not hesitate to use any our family to keep Annie, even if it means killing innocent children." Amidala shook her head sorrowfully. "I should never have asked you to adopt her. I've put your lives in grave danger, as well."
Kalla smiled sadly. "Then we shall just have to see to it that no one ever finds out. I love Leia. She's the daughter Bail and I could never have. She will always be my daughter, and someday she'll inherit my title. And you shall always be welcome here. Alderaan is your home, if you wish it to be." Kalla looked at her, obviously trying to gauge her response.
"I no longer know where I belong," Amidala admitted. "I'm a stranger to my past, my family, my home." She forced a smile. "I guess I'm seeking something."
"To find, you must know what you are seeking," Kalla said.
Despite herself, Amidala almost laughed. "You sound like Yoda."
"Yoda?"
"A Jedi master and member of their council." She looked out the window. "He's very wise and mysterious."
"Do you think he is still alive?"
"I know he is, safely hidden from Palpatine and the galaxy until the time comes." She turned to face Kalla. "Yoda and Obi-Wan--Ben--believe Luke and Leia will one day be the instruments of Palpatine's downfall."
"That's a long time to wait," Kalla said softly. "A long time indeed."
Amidala nodded in agreement. "There is much about the Jedi and the Force I just don't understand."
"That is why Palpatine can make the galaxy believe they are villains. The Jedi are easily misunderstood." Kalla took two steps back. "Ami, I promise that I will always love and protect Leia."
"That's all I can ask." She hesitated. "Ylenic has offered to train her."
"I...Ami, I don't know if that is such a good idea. If she starts using the Force, won't Palpatine sense her?"
"I don't know." Amidala clasped her hands. "I just don't know."
Kalla started to say something then stopped. She shook her head. "If you choose to remain here while we're at the Southern Palace, I'll understand. Perhaps you prefer to have some time alone?"
"Thank you, but I will come." Amidala smiled, this time genuinely, even as her thoughts wandered to the unknown future. The one thing she did know was every moment with her daughter was precious.
Coruscant: (1 month)
Baryl stared at Senators Bel Iblis and Organa and frowned. "What happened, sirs?" she panted. She'd run over from her apartment after Bel Iblis had contacted her.
"A few weeks ago you talked with a reporter," Garm said. She nodded. Coruscant Security believed Oli Varsh disappeared in the lower levels of Coruscant after getting drunk. She knew better, but there'd been nothing solid to go on--and since the reporter was not from Corellia she didn't have the authority to participate in the investigation.
"He was found this morning near one of the waste tunnels. Dead."
"How?" She bit her lip. She'd been afraid that had been his fate. She was almost ashamed at the thought that rose immediately--any evidence he'd had was now lost to her.
"The official word is he suffered a massive cerebral hemorrhage," Garm said. She grimaced--Varsh had most likely been killed the same way as the Neimodian Viceroy. There was no way to prove that he'd been killed by a Sith.
"I'm glad you're going back to Corellia," Bel Iblis said quietly. "I'm worried about you. The anti-Jedi sentiment is growing rapidly here."
"I've noticed."
Bail Organa continued. "The senate committee investigating Caamas is placing blame on an unknown group. The announcement will be made soon."
"Least they're not blaming the Jedi for this too," she said bitterly.
"That did surprise me," Bel Iblis said. "But we all know that if they haven't already, they very well may do so soon." He shifted his weight uncomfortably. "And considering..."
"My relationship with a Jedi."
"Yes," Bel Iblis said. "You aren't safe here. They have been watching you--and if they discover just who Ben is..."
She nodded. They were correct, but not only for the reasons they'd listed. She did have to leave Coruscant, and looking back at the events of the past few days, maybe she shouldn't have come in the first place. There was so much more to why the Emperor couldn't be allowed to learn of her relationship with Ben than simply using her to get to him. There were two small children, a refugee queen, and hundreds of others who had helped with or escaped through the Pulsar Express.
"And the staff investigations?" she asked.
Garm growled. "The Diktat has ordered them halted. I just received word an hour ago." And that was that. In the few months on Coruscant, she and Ben had helped him put together a tighter security protocol. That would have to be enough, now.
Bail Organa nodded quietly in agreement as he voiced his thanks for her help.
Once the initial shock had receded, she couldn't say that she was sorry to leave. She'd come to dislike and fear the place intensely. Beyond the blatant display of ill-gotten power, there was a growing unease among the population. It was almost as though the lowest echelons of society had more sense than many of the politicians.
She nodded. "Good-luck, Senators."
Garm shook his head. "There is no such thing as luck, just good planning and knowledge. Baryl...Be careful."
"I shall. And Senator, I'll keep you informed." She turned to go, already intent on what she had to do when she got home.
There was a tentative knock. "Sir, Senator Mon Mothma is here," the senator's new aide said, showing the slender woman into the office. Baryl stiffened at the arrival's expression.
"Have you heard?" Mon Mothma said with no emotion, "Palpatine has just announced the formation of the Department of Public Information." She placed a datachip on the desk. "Their first official act will be to take over the holonet."
"The senate will never go for it." Garm picked up the chip.
"He's bypassed the legislative process completely." Mon Mothma's face darkened. "And with the senate recess starting, I doubt there will be much outcry."
Bail started to pace the room. "Slowly, one step at a time. But he'll have his empire by the end of the year."
"He'll have to have a military first," Garm Bel Iblis said. Baryl stared at the chip, then at each of the senators.
"Already in the works. The officer training school at Caridia. He's sent Admiral Tarkin and several others to look into expanding the facility. I just received this from a source on Tarkin's staff." Mon Mothma pointed at the chip.
Bail froze, while the others stared at the chip. Baryl reached over and picked it up.
"I would suggest that discussions like this not be held on Coruscant. You three are the most visible of his opponents. For the moment you are safe, because it looks good that there is a vocal opposition. It makes people feel safe--it seems so democratic. But..." She glanced at each of the senators.
"There will come a time when he will no longer worry about popular support." Bail took the chip from her. "You are, unfortunately, correct. We must be careful." His grim smile faded as he stared at the datachip. "The Calamari have rejected his plea to rejoin the republic. This might convince them that he will use force."
Mon Mothma shook her head sadly. ""No one will believe that until afterwards."
"Then there will be civil war," Bel Iblis said. Nothing further was said as the four stood there staring helplessly at each other..
Detash: (2 months)
Ben leaned closer to the yellow-skinned merchant and growled, "We agreed upon one-hundred credits in advance and two-hundred on delivery. Well, I've delivered and you only have fifty credits." He started to pocket the black crystal. The merchant winced as he bent down below the counter. Ben smiled to himself as the shorter humanoid lifted up a sack.
"I have one-hundred fifty credits. Honest, that's all I have. I need that by tonight. My client..."
"I'll tell you what," Ben said, "I need some information. You have it for me in two hours and I'll let you have the crystal for the fifty credits."
The merchant narrowed his eyes, but nodded. "What do you want to know?"
"I understand that some bounty hunters have cornered a group of Jedi. I want to know where."
"What's it to you?"
Ben shrugged as he pocketed the crystal. "You need the crystal, I need the story. Two hours?"
The merchant huffed, then nodded. "Meet me here. And if you are playing games, I'll..."
"You will bring me that information," Ben casually moved his hand in a semicircle. "I'll be here in two hours." He moved away from the counter, keeping an eye on the merchant as he departed the building. A few seconds later, the merchant placed a closed sign in the window and departed. Ben slipped into the shadows and quietly followed.
He'd left Coruscant quickly just over a month ago. After a round-about trip, he'd arrived at Corellia and met with Rostek Horn. The Pulsar Express was falling apart: the most recent Jedi refugees had been cornered by a group of bounty hunters on Detash. Ben had decided, over Horn's objections, to help. The rest had been easy, with reluctant Horn's assistance. Ben had replaced a gem courier; and Horn had helped him put together a cover story. This merchant, through his underworld connections, would get the final piece of information.
He could sense the trapped Jedis' distress and determination, but not their location. He leaned against the wall and briefly closed his eyes. He was tired, but there was no time for sleep. The merchant turned a corner. Ben took a deep breath and followed.
Corellia
Baryl smiled in greeting, but it quickly faded as she sat down across from Rostek Horn. "Why would anyone in their right mind go to Detash?" She'd never been there, but had known several CorSec agents who had. None of them had anything complimentary to say about the place.
Rostek shook his head. "It's good to see you again, too." Then his face became serious. "There's a small group of Jedi there, apparently trapped by bounty hunters. Ben's gone to try to help."
"I see. Kiffle. Have you tried to trace the leak?"
She watched Rostek take several deep breaths. "The bounty on the Jedi keeps climbing. Money speaks very loud and very clear. So do the arbitrary punishments. Six safe houses were burned last month, and three weeks ago a family disappeared after helping a Jedi escape."
"Why wasn't I told?" Baryl grumbled. She should have been told--perhaps then she and Ben could have (maybe even still could) salvaged the operation.
"Because I need you alive, and in one piece," Rostek said, having guessed her thoughts. "And because this was bound to happen. We're lucky that the Pulsar Express lasted this long."
Damn, if he wasn't correct. She didn't trust herself to speak for a moment. "Who's on Detash?"
"Two former council members and two children are hiding there. A band of bounty hunters discovered them. They managed to get off a distress call. Ben--"
"Had to help." Just like him. Then appalled, "Two council members? Do you know who?"
Rostek shook his head. "No, and unfortunately your vacation is going to be cut short. There's been a series of attacks on the shipping lanes. I need you to go to Plataxal." He shook his head. "Take a couple of days to get settled. The Diktat is breathing down my neck on this one."
She smiled sourly. Someone's cousin owned one of the ships, more likely than not. "That I can do. Sir, what about Senator Bel Iblis?"
Rostek glanced down at his hands, then said, "Privately, the Senator sends his thanks and best wishes. He has started implementing your security plan, as have Senators Organa and Mon Mothma. Publicly, he has informed the Diktat that the his staff on Coruscant is loyal to Corellia."
She chuckled. "I see."
"And speaking of Coruscant, your recent testimony..."
She rolled her eyes. "Let me guess, they didn't like it."
"Something along those lines. In the future, I would avoid all conversation with reporters." Her head snapped up at that; Oli Varsh's death weighed on her conscience. "I don't know how they learned of your little escapade, but I've been informed that from now on all CorSec officers are to refer any questions to the public relations department." He shrugged. "I'll see you back here after you've had a chance to settle in."
"Yes, sir." She stood to leave. Plataxal was a minor trading center with close ties to Corellia, but it wasn't a member of the Galactic Republic. It was also close to the rim. She was already considering the possibilities of moving the Pulsar Express there. She didn't look at Horn as she left. Her time there would be spent investigating the raiders, but she could certainly look around.
Detash
Ben stepped out of the shadows right behind the Detash merchant and tapped his shoulder. The merchant jumped forward. "What is the meaning of this?" He didn't relax when he recognized the person who'd accosted him.
Ben held the alien's blaster. "Let's just say I didn't trust you. What did you learn?"
"They're in the caves outside the city." The merchant squinted his eyes and reached into his pocket and pulled out a piece of paper. "The location is marked on this map," he finished with a snarl.
"Why, thank you for your kind help," Ben said quietly, then added, "You might want to advise the bounty hunter waiting at your shop that you don't know what happened to me." He circled his hand as he spoke. He handed the merchant the blaster and the black gem.
The merchant stared at his hands for several seconds, then shrugged as he pocketed the gem.
Ben watched as the alien departed, then glanced at the map. It was crude, but the directions were relatively understandable. It didn't help that the merchant had tipped off the bounty hunters, but it was not an unexpected development.
He just hoped he was in time.
#
Ben stared down at the lone guard standing motionless by the path, almost hidden in the growing shadows. The Force had alerted Ben to the man's presence as well as to the others hidden throughout the hills. Ben glanced quickly around and smiled. With a quick flick of his wrist, he flicked a stone behind the guard. When the bounty hunter crouched, then went to investigate, blaster drawn, Ben jumped down the hill, landing just behind the other man, who quietly returned to his original position, ignoring Ben. Ben started to move forward, his unignited light saber in hand.
"Foolish Jedi, you should have stayed away." Ben slid to a stop. Three bounty hunters stood overhead, pointing their blasters at him. He shrugged as the shorter one scrambled down the rocky slope.
"Well, well, well," the shorter mercenary said. "What have we here?" He motioned toward the light saber. Ben smiled politely as he prepared to hand it over.
"Watch--" The words turned into a scream as the hill gave way. Ben leapt over the man in his path, ducked the poorly-aimed blast and ignited his saber. He blocked the other two shots with his saber, then bolted into the cave. The trio of bounty hunters did not pursue.
"You should have stayed away," a voice said from the darkness. "They have prevented all our attempts at fleeing--and now they've captured you too."
"Mistress Gallia?"
"Yes, Obi-Wan, it's me. Why are you here?"
"To get you out of here." He pulled the map from his pocket. "There is a path through the network of caves that I'm hoping the bounty hunters don't know about or think is too small to worry about guarding."
She limped out of the shadows shaking her head. "Obi-Wan, leave while you can."
He stood straight. "No. I'm here to rescue you."
Another voice spoke from behind her. "He can get the children out. We'll stay and provide a diversion."
"No," Ben said again, more firmly this time. "We all go, or I'll stay." He didn't want anyone else he knew to sacrifice themselves.
"Qui-Gon's stubbornness is strong in this one." Ben recognized Even Piell as he stepped out of the shadows. The two former Jedi council members crossed their arms and stared at him. "They know Mistress Gallia and I are here and who we are. I doubt they've recognized you, so at this moment we are more valuable. Two children and one Jedi will not be worth their while if we remain here." Piell and Gallia drew their weapons for emphasis.
"But--" Ben started to say, but Adi Gallia held her hand up.
"Don't argue. The girl is very strong in the Force, and the boy's family was killed because they helped her. Now you must help them. We can take of ourselves." She glanced at Piell who started to crawl out one of the small tunnels. "Obi-Wan, your future lies elsewhere."
He closed his eyes. Like Mace, they would die so he could escape. But there was no arguing with a determined Jedi--especially a member of the council.
"Good," she whispered. "Remember us." A smile lit up her face. "The Force will be with you, always."
Ben didn't answer as the sound of footsteps echoed in the cavern.
Two teenagers exited. Both were dressed in dark pants and tunics, and both were in need of a bath. The girl smiled as she saw Ben. "Hello," she bowed. "I'm Torella. This is my friend Olef Sar." The boy was a few years younger, and looked close to tears.
"I want to kill them," Sar whispered. "They killed my family."
Ben placed a hand on the boy's shoulder. "Revenge will serve no purpose. These bounty hunters are not the source of the evil."
The boy narrowed his eyes, then looked away. "I shall avenge my family's deaths, you know." Torella took his hand and whispered in his ear.
"Sir," Torella said. "Are you here to rescue us?" She glanced at Mistress Gallia and Master Piell and frowned. "I..." Ben understood her hesitation--there was no way to thank someone for what was happening next. The two kids looked uncomfortable as the Jedi council members moved toward the tunnel.
"Live and remember," Adi Gallia said softly. "Give us a few minutes to get in position."
"May the Force be with you," Ben said as they slipped outside. He motioned for the kids to follow him. He blocked the blaster bolts easily as he shouted for the kids to head toward the low overhang on the right.
Ben slanted his blade to redirect the shot toward their attacker. He bolted toward the kids when a flicker in the Force told him, he'd been successful. The map was correct, he noticed. There was a small crawlspace--a tough squeeze for an adult. "In there." The boy stuck his head in then pulled it out.
"It's pretty narrow, sir."
"It gets wider soon." He hoped that meant very soon. Torella took the lead, with Sar reluctantly following. Ben reached up with his saber and cut through seventy-five percent of the overhang. He heard it start to crack and rocks fall as he too crawled into the space.
The sound of blasters faded and a brief flicker in the Force told him it was over. At that moment the overhang collapsed, preventing anyone from following.
Corellia
"Sir?" Baryl said as she entered Horn's office. She placed her travel bag on the floor.
Rostek Horn shook his head as he stood. "There's a special news report from the Coruscant Hourly News. Two Jedi Council members have been captured on Detash and will be charged with treason and other war crimes against The Galactic Republic."
"Oh, really?" Her voice dripped with sarcasm, then she froze. "Isn't that where Ben went?"
"He got away. That was the other bit of news I wanted to tell you. He's going to meet you on Plataxal with the two kids." He tossed her a datachip. "These are your instructions. The Plataxal government is expecting you. The raiders struck again this morning. The other matter, handle should be handled quietly. Those instructions are encrypted."
"Yes, sir." Baryl fingered the chip.
"And Baryl, I've checked with my source on Detash. There will be no trial."
She shook her head sadly. "That's not surprising. Do you know if they recognized Ben?"
Horn shook his head. "No. There were no reports of any other Jedi involvement." He glanced at his desk. "When you return, I have another project for you." She looked at him questioningly. "I've been deleting some official documents or modifying them. I want you to scan for certain names in the records."
"Ahhh." She waited, but he didn't elaborate any further. "What's this about?"
"I'll tell you when you return. Good luck."
"Thank you, sir."
Coruscant
Palpatine could sense Tarkin's growing impatience, but the admiral remained stiff. Palpatine Palpatine looked up.from Tarkin's report. "An excellent outcome. The facilities at Caridia will be sufficient for our purposes?"
"Yes, sir," Admiral Tarkin said. "There is also extensive room to expand in the future. We can relocate the nearby towns to other areas on the planet. It is possible that the entire planet may one day serve your needs."
"I see," Palpatine responded. "The oversight committee is expecting your report in an hour." He glanced at Tarkin, then back at the datareader. "And the timeframe?"
"We can start training immediately."
Palpatine nodded, pleased with the answer. The Republican military had served a largely ceremonial role, outside of providing security for Coruscant alone. Its officers had trained at the Caridia academy. All this was going to change. His plans called for a large military under his control to help maintain order. "The oversight committee is interested in your views on requesting the members systems to turn control of their fleets to the Republic."
Tarkin smiled. "An excellent idea. It would speed up the creation of The Imperial Navy." The admiral emphasized the word Imperial.
"That is still in the *confidential* planning stages."
Tarkin stiffened at the reprimand. "I understand, Your Majesty." Palpatine was sure he did.
"Admiral, after you brief the committee, I have another project for you. I want someone found."
"Your Majesty, wouldn't that task..."
"Admiral." Palpatine narrowed his eyes and waited for Tarkin to look away. "Understand, I need this task to be undertaken by someone I trust completely. Someone who can keep his mouth shut. And someone I know who can get the job done."
Tarkin managed to looked pleased and confused at the same time. "Who is it?"
Palpatine grinned wolfishly. "A woman who died on Naboo."
"Senator Naberrie?"
Palpatine nodded. Tarkin was very quick on the uptake--perhaps too quick. "I have reason to believe she is alive. Find her." The door opened behind Tarkin and another human entered. "Armand Isard will assist you. He'll provide you with the information you need to get started."
Isard stepped forward. "Your Majesty, I've arranged to leave for Naboo this evening."
"Excellent. Admiral, tomorrow, you will take your fleet to Plataxal and destroy the raiders. The Plataxal government has been reluctant to talk to my ambassadors. Be very open about what you're doing--I want them to see that we can protect them. Then you will go to Naboo and assist Isard. Understood?"
"Yes, sir!" Tarkin clicked his heels and snapped back to attention.
Palpatine motioned for both men to leave. He smiled at the glare Tarkin threw Isard. Both men were ambitious--too ambitious. Having them work together would either create the basis of an efficient Military Intelligence or end with one man killing the other. Either way, he would have what he wanted.
Plataxal: 10 weeks
Baryl handed the Plataxal official her paperwork. She'd forgotten the planetary government's love affair with paperwork. She briefly wondered how many of the citizens would become unemployed if the Plataxal port authority cut their number of forms in half.
She shook her head with frustration as he thumbed through the pile of papers yet again. Finally, he looked up. "CorSec is thorough, as always. It's a pleasure to do business with you. CorSec manages to keep their paperwork in superb order." He handed the pile back to her. "Please check in with the Security Office. Apparently the matter you are here to investigate has already been cleared up."
"I shall." She carefully placed the papers back into their leather folder. "Thank you for your assistance." She shook her head as she wondered just 'how the matter had been cleared up.'
He smiled as he motioned her to move on. She glanced around quickly, then headed toward the luggage inspection area. She noticed no suspicious officers around: she hoped that meant the travel papers Rostek had given her for Ben and the two kids hadn't been found. She picked up her bag, thanked the inspector at the gate and left. The thought of her hotel room was particularly inviting, but she wouldn't have time to enjoy it. She needed to go to the security office.
#
Baryl took several deep breaths as she walked out of the office. Despite the building's low ceiling, she reflectively looked starward, wondering at the incredible timing of the Republic fleet's arrival. According to the reports, the raiders had been completely annihilated. That was excellent news, but also meant there wasn't a single survivor to question. It was almost a little too convenient, but the Plataxal authorities now considered the matter closed. Admiral Tarkin was having a state dinner at the presidential palace (probably discussing Plataxal joining the Republic), and she was on her way home to Coruscant. She glanced around quickly as she exited the building into the main square. She couldn't leave until she'd delivered the documents to Ben, but she no longer had any official reason to stay. Plataxal was not known as one of the galaxy's more sought-after vacation sites.
She gripped her bag tighter and started to walk at a leisurely pace to her hotel. It was a nice enough day. She halted twenty steps later and shivered.
"Shhh," a voice said. She relaxed at the sound of Ben's voice. "I sense it, too."
"Palpatine?" She started to walk, this time with Ben at her side, dressed as a well-to-do Corellian businessman.
"No."
"Anakin?"
There were several minutes of silence before he spoke. "I bought drinks for one of the Republic fleet's officers. He mentioned that Palpatine's liaison officer was on board. Lord Vader." She glanced at him quickly, with a sudden suspicion. He nodded. "No one knows anything about him, except he wears black armor and has quite a temper."
"I see." She felt it prudent to change the subject. "Where are the two kids?"
"They're waiting for us. I wish I'd known earlier Vader would be here. He might sense the girl. We need to leave quickly."
"I have your traveling papers. Your ship doesn't leave until tomorrow. But we might be able to change your departure time." She shifted her direction toward the space port. "Everything is in order. Just mention that your niece is unhappy and you've finished negotiations. Your business dealings are confidential--they'll understand." She reached into her pocket and pulled out the well wrapped documents. "Is Vader on the planet?"
Ben shook his head as he took the documents. "I was told he spends all of his time on his ship."
"Good." She resisted the urge to shudder. "I'm finished here. I'll file a change in my flight schedule and leave tonight." She liked having her own ship; it was the one Bail Organa had given them for their mission to Spaarti. "We haven't had much time together, Ben."
He sighed. "Baryl, I know. But it's for the best."
"Don't go in that direction. I will not have you protecting me by staying away." Her voice softened. "Please?"
"Baryl, love..." He shrugged, obviously seeing it was useless to argue with her. "I'll try to get to Corellia." He smiled briefly. "I'll see you soon."
She frowned as she watched him walk away, then continued to her hotel.
"There's a message for you," the manager said as she handed Baryl the keys to her room. "From CorSec."
Her frown deepened as she took the datachip. "Thank you. Oh, and I'll be checking out sooner than I'd expected."
The alien female grinned. "Excellent news, isn't it? The Republican Fleet wiped out all the raiders. We shouldn't have any further problems for a long time." She gave a satisfied look. "This is exactly what the galaxy needs, a strong presence to keep outlaws under control. I hear there's going to be a demonstration this evening to show our support for joining the Republic." She leaned forward and said, "A strong military should make your job easier."
"Yes, it should," Baryl said, faking some enthusiasm for a subject she more than deplored. She pocketed the datachip, and thanked the manager once more.
She reached for the datareader as soon as the door to her room closed. Rostek Horn's voice filled the room, causing her to quickly lower the volume. "Sorry about this, but the Diktat is extremely pleased with the results of the Republic's intervention. I need you to return to Corellia as soon as possible. " No surprise there. She listened as Horn continued, "The Republic subcommittee on Caamas has released their findings. Nothing unexpected, except an addendum that says there will be a follow-up report within the month."
She started to fling the reader across the room, but instead settled for slamming it on the bed. "Kiffle."
Alderaan: Southern Palace (3 months)
Amidala stood quickly at the sound of approaching voices. She enjoyed her time in the Southern Palace gardens, but she did prefer to spend them alone. She adjusted the veil covering her face, and listened. Princess Kalla had mentioned that Bail was returning for a week or so, before heading back to Coruscant. She smiled when she heard his tones with those of his wife. Her expression soon changed to a frown. There was someone else with them. She wasn't sure she recognized the deep male voice, but she had her suspicions.
She repositioned the veil as the trio approached. She bowed politely, her face completely hidden. She knew if it wasn't, Senator Drey'lya of Bothawui could very well recognize her. Bail guided Drey'lya toward the benches.
Kalla smiled as she came over to sit beside her. "He came with Bail. I'm not sure exactly why, he's only hinted that it's important."
"He could recognize me," Amidala whispered.
"I know. Garm and Mon Mothma are also expected next week. I didn't know until just a few minutes ago." Amidala clasped her hands. The two senators would definitely recognize her.
"They will keep their mouths shut." Kalla continued soothingly. "And they have no reason to suspect any other reason for you to be here." She placed her hand on Kalla's shoulder. "Don't go too far." She inclined her head toward the gazebo. "Bail suspects Drey'lya may be willing to join our cause."
Amidala looked at her in surprise. The Bothans had been some of Palpatine's staunchest supporters. "What has he learned?" The Bothans also had an impressive intelligence gathering machine.
Kalla sighed. "I don't know. I'll tell you--"
"Kalla," she whispered. "Drey'lya was the one who first dragged me into this. I don't trust him."
Kalla grimaced. "Ami, I don't know if we can trust him or not. Okay, listen in if you want. Drey'lya's acting very nervous--he may just be telling the truth."
Her curiosity was piqued. "I'll be well hidden." She again bowed and watched Kalla leave to rejoin the two senators. Amidala then started walking the other way. Two steps later she ducked behind the dense hedge. She moved cautiously in the direction of the gazebo. The outer walls were made of a tight lattice, offering some protection from prying eyes.
There was several seconds of silence, before there was a soft ding. She recognized the sound of a electronic sweep being completed.
"We're clear," Bail said. "Senator?"
She heard Drey'lya cough several times. "The senate subcommittee on Caamas has released their findings."
"We know," Kalla said quietly. "The disaster was caused by an unknown party."
There was a snort. "There was strong pressure to blame the Jedi and the Jedi scientists who were living on Caamas. Not that it came from Emperor Palpatine directly." Amidala was surprised to hear Drey'lya admit to coercion on the Emperor's part. Neither Kalla or Bail responded. Like Amidala, they were probably not sure if Drey'lya was trying to bait them.
"Senator Organa," the Bothan continued, "I know that you and others have been concerned about Palpatine's motives. I did not believe you until a few weeks ago." She could hear the anger and sorrow in the senator's voice. "I have learned things that could tear my people apart. And I've known for a long time who was responsible for Y'mala. Palpatine agreed that it was best not to reveal that information."
"You have the proof?" She could hear the restrained interest in Kalla's voice.
"Not anymore. All I have is pieces of a puzzle. You see, a group of Bothans were responsible for the destruction of the planetary shields in both cases. I was too ashamed to allow the first report to be made public, especially since most of those responsible had died. I guessed at one other, and when confronted, Merlyk confessed to everything. You remember Darth Sidious?"
Amidala gasped at the name, then froze at the sound of approaching footsteps. She remained still as Drey'lya said something about leaving. They too had heard the sound of someone coming.
"What are you doing here?" Amidala glanced up quickly and found herself staring at the muzzle of a small blaster. Lady Brasa's face was dark with anger.
"I could say the same for you," Amidala answered quietly as she started to stand. "Put that thing away."
"No. We're going to talk to Princess Kalla. You will finally be exposed as a spy and traitor to Alderaan."
Amidala stared at her accuser. "What?"
Lady Brasa motioned toward the doorway. "Start walking. You've been spying for the Emperor since your arrival." Amidala chuckled at that thought. "You find it funny?"
"Actually, yes, I do. I'm probably the last person the Emperor wants to see alive." Amidala started to walk faster. "Well, hurry up, I'm sure Princess Kalla will find this amusing, too." She didn't bother to look back. While she enjoyed seeing Brasa's puzzled look, she was frustrated at the sudden interruption. She was dying to know what Drey'lya had been about to say. Maybe, just maybe it could be used to bring down Palpatine's illegal government.
Kalla looked aghast as they approached. "Lady Brasa, what is the Meaning of this outrage. Lady Ami---"
"Is a spy and traitor," Lady Brasa said angrily. "A woman with no past who has wormed her way into your confidence. I don't even think she is from Alderaan." Amidala frowned.
"She is not a spy," Kalla said calmly, holding out her hand. Lady Brasa hesitated, then handed over the blaster. "I will not have your petty jealousy--"
"Your Highness, I've been watching her for over a year!"
"I'm sure you have." Kalla glanced at Amidala who shrugged.
"Perhaps," Amidala put in, "Lady Brasa has not only been jealous but worried. She is correct, I was a stranger to the Alderaan Court. Strangers..."
"You are one of Palpatine's spies." Lady Brasa whipped around to glare at Amidala. "You seem to always be around when there are private meetings." She turned her attention back to the princess and said triumphantly, "And she was spying just now."
"I know," Kalla said. Amidala nodded at her silent question. "I told her to."
"Why?" demanded Brasa, "So she could tell Palpatine?"
"No," Kalla said firmly. "So she can help us." Amidala slid the veil off her head and straightened up. "Appearances can be deceiving, but I know she is not a spy for Palpatine."
"How can you be so sure?" Lady Brasa's voice was no longer angry, just curious.
"Because he would have her killed if he even knew she was alive. You see," Kalla said calmly. "We feared *you* were one of his spies." Lady Brasa looked stunned, then glanced at Amidala.
"Emperor Palpatine? Your Highness, my loyalty is to Alderaan, not some tyrant with delusions of grandeur."
"It's more than delusions," Amidala said as she stepped forward. "You have observed and seen only what he wants you to. There is so much more that the majority of the galaxy does not know."
"I've seen and heard plenty. My fiance died with the Alliance Fleet at Spaarti."
"You have my sympathies. I lost my husband there." Amidala replied, although she knew she'd lost Anakin long before then.
"I didn't know." Lady Brasa stared at Amidala for several seconds. "Why does Palpatine want you dead?"
"For many reasons," Amidala said, hoping to leave it at that.
"Lady Ami served with the Alliance too," Kalla said. "Until her own world was devastated by the clone armies."
"I understand," Lady Brasa bowed her head. "The clones brought great ruin to the galaxy, and gave Palpatine a reason to claim power. My fiance was convinced the Emperor was behind the clones."
"Your fiance was very astute," Amidala said. "And so are you. You have seen what most of the galaxy even refuses to look at."
"Can we stop him?" Lady Brasa asked.
"I no longer think it is possible without civil war." Kalla's face darkened as she spoke.
"That's what I was afraid of."
"It's what we all fear," Amidala added.
"Who are you, anyway?"
Amidala shook her head. "You're better off not knowing." She glanced quickly at Kalla. "This conversation never took place."
"What conversation?" Lady Brasa bowed. "Your Highness, if you will forgive my transgressions?"
"What transgressions?" Kalla asked with a thin smile. "Lady Ami is correct, none of this happened." Lady Brasa bowed once more and after another glance at Amidala, she left. It was several seconds before either remaining woman spoke.
"Well," Kalla said, "I had no idea."
Amidala allowed herself to laugh. "You think we did the right thing, telling her that much? It won't take her long to piece together the rest of the story."
"She'll discover who you are, but not the rest." Kalla glanced around. "She's been a trustworthy member of the court and her fiance was Lord Palan. He was one of our best fighter pilots." Kalla took Amidala's hand. "Bail's escorting Drey'lya to his ship."
"The Bothans were involved in Caamas and Y'mala?" Amidala shook her head. "That's hard to believe."
"Blackmail, possibly." Kalla shrugged. "We can't expose the Bothans. Bail says there is a growing anti-alien movement. Revealing this could be devastating for the Bothans and the other non-humans."
Amidala bit her lip. "I'm not sure we can keep it secret. Surely the public has a right to know?"
"Yes, they do. But we are fighting a larger war, against Palpatine. The support of the Bothans..."
"It's so unfair." But even as she spoke, she knew Kalla was correct. The information would further destroy any chance of bringing Palpatine down peacefully, unless there was direct proof linking Palpatine to Sidious and to Caamas and Y'mala. They would have to remain silent. She glanced behind her, when Kalla turned and looked expectantly at her returning husband.
"He doesn't have much to go on," Bail said. "Apparently General Merlyk has *resigned* from Republic Intelligence and wasn't very happy about it. He told Drey'lya what happened on Y'mala and Caamas. We do know that Merlyk's group was was ordered by Darth Sidious to destroy both planetary shield generators."
"And Palpatine?" Kalla asked.
"This group was working for Darth Sidious. Drey'lya is convinced Sidious and Palpatine are the same person. But, like us, he has no proof."
"So, we haven't gained anything." Kalla crossed her arms.
"I wouldn't say that. We have some access to the Bothan intelligence. Drey'lya is not seeking reelection, but he has contacts within the intelligence community. He can't promise full support." Bail shrugged. "At least it's a start."
Amidala nodded slowly. It was just that, a start.