Chapter 4 of A Lost Hope
Yoda's ears curled upward and he smiled at the sight of the three
people leaving the ship. He hobbled over. "Welcome."
"Master Yoda," Obi-Wan said as he bowed. "It is
a great tragedy."
Yoda's ears sagged at the reference to the destruction of their
beloved home. "Much tragedy there be. Much worse if found
the children are."
"Amidala knows this, and has agreed that they must be raised
apart," Obi-Wan said. "She is unhappy."
"Understand this I do. Soon come here she must." Yoda
used his staff to point at the surrounding marsh.
"Here?" Obi-Wan asked.
Yoda nodded. "Safe she will be. Colonel Arasta--" he
looked at her with sad eyes, "--unhappy you are?"
She spoke softly, wondering why she felt comfortable speaking
to the Jedi Master. "She shouldn't have to make such a decision."
"Prepare now for the future we do." He smiled at her.
She studied Yoda, then looked at Obi-Wan, who just shrugged.
Mace glanced around the swamp. "A strange place to find you,
my friend."
"Here must I be." Yoda pointed toward his small clay
hut. "Small it is. Room for three guests there is not."
Baryl chuckled. "I'm used to sleeping on the ship. I won't
mind a few more nights."
"Master Yoda," Obi-Wan said with a slight hesitation.
Baryl glanced at him, then back at Yoda. The mood of the three
Jedi had become more serious. "Perhaps in the truth, there
are the answers we seek."
"Always elusive the truth is."
"The prophecy...The one Master Qui-Gon referred to ten years
ago. There must be more than something about a chosen one?"
Obi-Wan's face was calm, but his eyes reflected the seriousness
of his request.
Yoda's ears fell. "From before the last Sith War it is."
"Master Yoda, why do you hide the truth even now?" Obi-Wan
said. The three humans stared at the master. "We know in
our hearts that Palpatine is Darth Sidious."
"So do you, my friend," Mace whispered. "You've
known."
Yoda sagged as he leaned heavily on his staff. "The prophecy
not Jedi. Found it was in the last Sith stronghold."
"It is a Sith prophecy?" Baryl said as she gripped Obi-Wan's
hand. She wanted to ask more questions--like what prophecy?--but
Obi-Wan continued speaking.
"But, if this prophecy is Sith, why was Master Qui-Gon so
enthusiastic?"
The aged Master sighed. "Long ago, Sith Lords spoke of one
who both light and dark must serve: at who's coming balance the
Force would find. This Chosen One, the Sith destruction would
avenge. Yet, when the Sith were no more seen, mostly forgotten
this prophecy was. Riddles there were, but never answers to find,
never enough to know if truly departed were the dark ones."
He tapped his staff to emphasize his words. "Hard to see
is the darkside. Always was I convinced that the Sith hidden remained.
Nearly nine-hundred years old I am. When the Jedi forgot, never
did I."
"And you told no one?" Baryl asked angrily. She couldn't
believe it: the Jedi Master had known--could have prevented what
was coming.
"Told?" Yoda stared at her, his eyes sad and full of
understanding. "What had I to tell? A suspicion? A feeling?"
She bowed her head. He was right. They didn't have more than a
suspicion, even now. The whole thing was now spiraling toward
an inevitability she hated.
"The darkside seductive be." Yoda gave her a knowing
look. "Do not let your anger and fear control you."
He straightened. "Expected you I did. Come, eat you must."
#
Baryl stretched out as she moved the padding under her. A strange
day, she decided. And Yoda. He appeared so calm, yet his words
disturbing were. She almost smiled as she found her thoughts echoing
his speech patterns. It still disturbed her that Yoda had known.
She didn't know how long he'd known, but she suspected it had
been for a while. There must have been some way he could have
prevented this. She yanked at the blanket and gave up trying to
get comfortable.
And yet it was true. The events the wizened Jedi Master had probably
long feared were now happening--and she suspected too few people
would believe them even now. The Sith were ancient history--almost
mythical--something one used to scare naughty children, not something
one worried about. She pushed her loose hair back. She couldn't
let her fears prevent her from sleeping. Anger and fear. He'd
been speaking to her, but what did it matter if she was angry
and afraid?
She had to stop this. She forced herself to think about sleep.
It was nice to have more room to sleep in, she thought as she
again shifted the pad under her. Her small ship, while fuel efficient,
was slow and cramped. Two people on the ship had been hard. She
and Obi-Wan had alternated sleeping in the hold. With three it
had been very difficult. Now she was one again. Well, almost alone,
she reminded herself. The little droid plugged into the recharger
could be activated to keep her company, if she so desired.
She stretched out and stared at the ceiling and reflected on that
damn prophecy. Obi-Wan had tried to explain it while they were
eating something Yoda called a stew. It was confusing. Obi-Wan's
mentor had brought Anakin to Coruscant because he'd believed that
Anakin was the Chosen One. But if it was a Sith prophecy? Her
mind ran over those possibilities. She wondered if Sidious knew
of this prophecy, and had he known of Anakin? Things Obi-Wan had
mentioned suggested that he had. She smiled as she turned her
thoughts to the young Jedi Knight that had become her partner.
Considering her usual reaction to partners...There was a knock
on the outside of the ship. She shrugged the blankets off. Damn
him anyway. She stood and opened the door.
"Hi there?" Obi-Wan said a bit cautiously.
"Hi," she replied, then motioned for him to enter.
He glanced around. "I'm sorry...Master Windu and Master Yoda
wished to discuss council business." Then he chuckled. "There
isn't room in his hut for two humans either."
"It's not that much bigger in here." She watched as
he kept moving around the room, never looking at her.
"I'm Jedi; we're used to uncomfortable. I'll sleep in the
cockpit." This time his eyes sought out hers.
She glanced downward then returned her gaze to him. "Obi-Wan,
what did Yoda mean by I shouldn't let my anger and fear control
me? I'm not Jedi."
Obi-Wan's eyes didn't waver. "The truth?"
"Oh." She shivered. Her eyes never left his as she processed
that simple statement. "How long have you known?"
He looked away almost guiltily. "I've suspected since that
day on Y'mala. You have the ability, but it's a weak one. With
practice you could learn some control."
"I see." She kicked at her blankets. "So, that's
why we've worked well together?"
"Sort-of." Obi-Wan shifted his position. "We'll
be leaving tomorrow, we need sleep."
She took a deep breath and marched up to him. "It's been
a very interesting day. I'm not sure I'm ready for sleep. And
considering everything--" She almost laughed. "like
I threatened to feed my last partner to the Rancor at the Coronet
City Zoo--perhaps you should explain sort-of." She stared
straight into his eyes.
He smiled sadly. "Jedi can form close mental bonds with certain
people. An apprentice to his master. A child to his parents. The
stronger their connection to the Force, the stronger their connection
to each other. A strong Jedi can form a weaker bond with a non-Jedi
if their connection is very close." She inched closer.
"How close?"
"Baryl," he said as he ran his finger along her cheek.
She smiled as he continued to speak and try to deny the quiet
joy she saw in his eyes. "I'm Jedi--I..."
"You what?" She said quietly. "It's quite obvious
the Jedi Order is not celibate." She smiled at his shy grin.
"They must be allowed some semblance of a life."
"It's just that now...well...I hadn't..." She ran the
back of her fingers along his chin. A part of her wondered at
her boldness and her certainty.
"I understand. Palpatine stands at the threshold of galactic
rule, his first target will be the Jedi--you are the only ones
with the strength and knowledge to truly stop him. And you, personally,
will be his top priority. Now may be the only time we'll ever
have." She moved her hand to the back of his neck and pulled
his head toward hers. She closed her eyes as his lips met hers.
He pulled back and she opened her eyes. The look of confusion
in his face was replaced by one that thrilled her, terrified her,
and still made her smile. They kissed again. When they broke apart,
they stared at each other for several minutes, before separating
completely.
"I'll sleep up front." He stopped at the door and smiled
at her. "I do love you..."
She tried to smile back, but found herself turning away. "I
know. I love you too," she said as she kicked her blankets
away from the wall. She stilled. She could feel him still staring
at her. She turned back slowly.
Obi-Wan started to speak, but she shook her head as she held out
her hand. He stepped over the blankets and took her hand, cradling
it in his for several seconds, before pulling her gently back
into his arms.
General Merlyk stared at the datapad. His agents were most efficient.
He had information that no one knew he had--including his boss,
the Supreme Chancellor. And that's what worried him. Somehow the
Chancellor managed to have the information before he did. He knew
full well the Chancellor had other intelligence agents: agents
that didn't report to the Galactic Republic Intelligence Agency.
He knew who most of them were anyway. It was a dangerous game
he played, but he had enjoyed it. Information was power in his
business. The more you had, usually the better off you were; but
as he stared at the information in front of him, he began to wonder
if perhaps there might be such a thing as too much knowledge.
He shuddered as he reread the file. Lord Sidious. A name he'd
hoped never to hear of again, yet had known he would. One of Palpatine's
other agents had given him this earlier in the day. Most of the
galaxy had not heard the name for ten years: not since Sidious'
rumored connection with the Trade Federation and the Naboo invasion
ten years earlier. The information in front of him was part of
a trend that bothered him. A clone officer captured a few weeks
ago had mentioned a powerful leader; the Alliance Jedi suspected
a connection; and now this: a communique reportedly from Sidious
to the clone army. Sidious was not careless; and even after the
Naboo invasion, there had really been nothing to even prove he
existed. There had definitely been nothing about his connection
to Y'mala...But then only a handful of Bothans knew about that.
He shuddered again. He didn't think Sidious was careless, so it
meant one of two things: Lord Sidious had purposefully leaked
the information; or even worse, knowledge of his existence no
longer had to be hidden. He suspected the latter--which lead to
another interesting question: was the timing coincidental to the
calls to name Palpatine Emperor? He debated resigning--he wanted
out before he learned more than was safe.
Mace opened his eyes as the young man sat down on the floor beside
him. "Something bothers you?" His voice was soft, but
there was a slight hint of humor in it. He almost smiled as Obi-Wan
grunted. "The Force is strong within you, but you are also--as
they say--human." He grinned. "Life never is what we
expect, is it?"
"No, Master Windu," Obi-Wan leaned against the wall.
"It's just not the right time or place."
"My boy, it so rarely is." Mace clasped his hands as
he gazed at them. "The future is hard to see, always in motion.
But whatever happens, you have found someone."
"I'm Jedi..."
"A poor excuse, Obi-Wan. The Jedi Council was never against
relationships." Mace closed his eyes. The Jedi Council was
no more: Yoda himself had disbanded it. "We must create our
own future," he said without opening his eyes. "You
are the future, so is Baryl, Amidala, Anakin, and others we don't
yet know."
"I don't understand, Master."
Mace smiled sadly. "What we know of the Jedi and the code
are forever altered. A new Jedi order will come into existence.
Be careful. Your love can be used against you should Palpatine
find out." He stopped. His own dream of fire and anger was
disturbing enough, but the hints he'd seen of the future beyond
were sad, yet tinged with joy. He knew that the young man beside
him would face many trials and sorrows in order for that future
to come into existence. A Jedi was willing to offer their life
in exchange for peace and justice. It was more difficult when
the life offered was that of a loved one or even a stranger.
"You have seen something?" Obi-Wan asked. Mace nodded,
but didn't answer. He suspected the meaning of his vision, but
it was too personal to share. Obi-Wan didn't ask further. The
young man closed his eyes. "There are times I wish I had
remained in the ag-corps."
Mace chuckled. "I don't know, I found it rather boring, but
I do understand." He did. To be responsible for the fate
of a galaxy was terrifying. "The very nature of everything
is changing--even the Force. One thing will remain true: no matter
what Palpatine convinces the galaxy to believe, the Jedi are,
and will continue to be, the champions of light. Peace and truth
will prevail. Remember that."
"I shall, Master." Obi-Wan glanced at him. Mace knew
that Kenobi was wondering about what he hadn't told. Mace masked
his expression and returned to his meditation. To tell, would
change the future he'd seen. And while it wasn't a pleasant future,
he knew the alternative would be worse.
Anakin clinched his fists and concentrated on his irritation at
his commanding officer. This secrecy was unnecessary. His squadron
needed to know what they were expected to do--but it looked like
Admiral Brandel, once again, was going to thrust them into a battle
situation with minimal information. And he fully expected that
Brandel would stick his squadron in the rear. He leaned back in
his chair and used the Force to pull his lightsaber off his belt.
It spun several times in front of him, before he reached and wrapped
his fingers around the hilt. Slowly, he ignited it as he considered
Brandel's reaction if he were to do something like this on the
bridge. He smiled. It was tempting to cut the arrogant fool down.
He turned the weapon off and attached it to his utility belt once
again. He needed to practice patience. His unseen mentor often
counseled him on the importance of patience in his visions. There
would be a time when Anakin could vent his anger at the admiral--but
it wasn't now.
He jumped out of his chair even before the warning klaxons sounded.
The fleet was preparing to return to realspace. "Commander
Skywalker," the computer said. "Please report to landing
bay seven."
Anakin was already on his way out of his room.
Amidala smoothed the dark red tunic over her loose pants. She
wouldn't get away with this much longer, but it would do for now.
Her bulging abdomen was getting bigger by the day. She smiled
as she placed her hands on her stomach. "I just want you
to know that I will always love you. Whatever happens, where ever
I am, please remember this." She winced slightly, then returned
to her seat. The message she was waiting for had arrived. She
activated the communication system. "Kalla, it's good to
hear your voice." It was in many ways. Kalla had been the
only person with whom she could discuss things.
"Amidala." Kalla's face appeared on the screen, Amidala
was shocked at how pale she looked. Kalla must have recognized
Amidala's apprehension. "Actually I'm fine, but to avoid
detection, I have to look ill."
"Ahh."
Kalla smiled. "You look tired. Anything?" Amidala shook
her head. She couldn't say anything on the channel. "It's
not looking good," Kalla continued. "I want you to know,
there is a movement in the Alderaan Assembly to return to the
Republic. I have some influence...But..."
"I know. Too many are." Both women stared at their screens
for several seconds.
"You should come to Alderaan."
"I shall." Amidala smiled. "Don't worry about me,
please."
"I can't help it," Kalla said. "You are at risk."
"I'm working on a plan. I'll be fine." She knew she
had to hurry, or Sidious would again try to have her killed. It
was just difficult to die and disappear believably.
"I'll be waiting. And Amidala--" The message was cut-off.
Amidala felt her stomach tighten, then relax when Bail cut in.
"Amidala--" The tone of his voice made her stomach tighten
more. She didn't breath. "--We're getting a distress signal
from Naboo."
She sat there, her eyes welling up with tears. Bail continued.
"We're splitting the fleet. We'll be jumping to hyperspace
in a minute." She heard the words, she just couldn't believe
he would do this to their world.
Anakin sat at attention, his focus concentrated on his ship and
squadron. In seconds the launch sequence would begin. They were
preparing to attack a large clone fleet near Naboo. Anakin clenched
his teeth. Amidala was from there. He smiled slightly--he hadn't
thought of her for a while. His frown returned. If the reports
were true on the amount of devastation, he desperately hoped she
hadn't been on the planet. He returned his thoughts to his ship.
He must concentrate. They were close, he could sense the despair
from the planet below and the bothersome presence of clones. He
stiffened as the status-light changed to green. "Launch all
fighters," the deck officer's voice announced.
His fighter lifted off, and he banked sharply as he exited. The
squadron followed. He briefly touched the minds of his pilots
and guided them toward the nearest clone cruiser. He was surprised
at how easily he could do this. "Lieutenant Loman, take beta
group below, take care of their fighters." Seven clone fighters
were headed their way. "Alpha group, we're going in for the
kill. Keep your eyes out for more fighters."
"Aye, boss," came the reply. Anakin concentrated on
reaching out with the Force. Their target; the power cells were
calling to him. He banked his ship to the port then straightened.
He accelerated, for one gleeful moment-- as he dodged phasers
and fighters--he was reminded of his childhood and flying in Beggar's
Canyon. He fired.
"Everybody clear!" He called out, then pushed onward.
He let go of his breath as the clone cruiser exploded. He lifted
a hand to block the light that quickly dissipated. He paid no
attention to a voice over his intercom as he guided his fighter
in toward the next ship. He was barely aware that the bulk of
the clone fleet had jumped.
"Commander Skywalker, you were under orders to disable their
ships, not destroy them. We wanted prisoners." Anakin opened
his eyes. The second ship was nothing but debris now too. The
voice he'd been ignoring was Brandel's.
Anakin glanced around. Most of the fleet had escaped. He could
feel Brandel's anger. He reached for his lightsaber and slashed
at the console, cutting the communication link. "Sorry sir,
but I seem to have damage." He smiled, then using the Force,
he directed his squadron to the surface. He had to know if she
was there, and if she was all right.
Colonel Baryl Arasta of CorSec glared at Obi-Wan. She wasn't used
to having her sound advice ignored. She took a deep breath. "Really.
This is not a good idea."
Obi-Wan shrugged. "You said the Tatooine slave trade comes
through Kessel."
"And I didn't expect you to lose any sense-of-reason and
jump at the first opportunity to come here." She'd been debating
this matter with him for the past few days. They were now on the
planet's surface. "At least don't go looking like a Jedi..."
She rubbed her forehead in frustration.
Obi-Wan laughed as he took her hand, then kissed her. "See,
I'm dressed appropriately." She rolled her eyes.
"Even as a moisture farmer, you still look like a Jedi. Look
exhausted, hard up..."
"This is all I had--I could change back."
Exasperated she looked at Mace, quietly standing there. "Are
all Jedi this frustrating?"
Mace smiled. "Only him." She laughed.
"Take care." She shoved Obi-Wan out the door. She felt
a sudden frustration at everybody and everything. Falling for
a Jedi Knight hadn't exactly been the wisest thing she'd ever
done. They were exasperating.
She didn't want to just sit on the ship and do nothing--but she
had been the one to point out she was too well known here. She
pulled her blaster from its holster to inspect it. She didn't
anticipate trouble, but on Kessel one always expected it: even
if they had only been given permission to stay three hours. That
permission had cost half of their supply of credits Bail had given
them--she hoped it was enough time. She went to the locker and
pulled a second blaster. Just in case.
#
Mace shook his head. "Obi-Wan?"
"Yes, Master." Mace shook his head again.
"She's right. If we're going to pull this off, we need to
try to blend in." He stuck his hands in his pocket. "Think
money. We just made a bundle on the Kessel run."
"Yes, Master."
"And don't call me Master." Mace grinned slightly. "Captain
will do."
Obi-Wan chuckled. "Yes sir. Can I be the Admiral then?"
"I wouldn't think so..." Mace glanced around. "What
did the Colonel say we were to call you?" Obi-Wan stared
at the older man. He'd winked.
"Ben, sir...Captain."
"I see..." The two men continued silently. Obi-Wan was
almost relieved. He felt a bit uncomfortable. Master Mace Windu
was a senior member of the Jedi Council. He straightened his posture
and started to pace his steps, using careful measured distance
between each one.
"Unless we need to know the distance back to the ship, walk
with a little less precision. And Obi-Wan, Ben...I'm here as your
partner and friend..."
"Yes, Mast...Yes, Captain. It will take a little getting
used to."
"Not too much, I hope. That's the cantina." Mace motioned
toward a rather dingy bar across the street.
Obi-Wan nodded. Bail had managed to arrange for Alderaan Intelligence
to give them names of several slavers who'd been in the business
for a while. The Force had guided them to pick this place. The
man they were looking for was a frequent visitor. Obi-Wan blinked
several times at the doorway, adjusting his eyes to the much dimmer
light. Mace stepped over to the bartender.
The place was noisy. He couldn't make out what anybody was saying.
He stretched out with the Force, then glanced at Mace. "Our
man is in the back," Mace said. "Seems he likes to drink
alone." They carefully wound their way through the tables
and customers.
"Captain Tor?" Obi-Wan said as they sat down. The human
pushed his long dirty hair off his face in acknowledgment to their
presence.
"Me...Whacha want," he slurred.
"Information. We're trying to find information about two
slaves." Obi-Wan wasn't surprised when the man laughed. "It's
important. A woman and her young son."
He looked up at Obi-Wan, his eyes slightly crossed. "I've
transported a lot of slaves mister." He held out his hand,
in an obvious gesture for money. Obi-Wan took two credits and
placed them in his palm.
"Her name was Shmi Skywalker, her son was called Anakin.
It would have been somewhere between thirteen and fifteen years
ago."
"Talk to Mont Yermo. He tells weird stories." Tor tightened
his fist around the coins. "He's up front, the guy with all
the attention." Tor took another sip of his drink.
Obi-Wan thanked him, but Tor was almost asleep again. He glanced
at Mace, who pointed toward a table by the window where a boisterous
group had gathered. Someone shouted for more ale. Obi-Wan quietly
intercepted the barkeeper and took the drinks over himself.
"Hey, you new here?" A burly Rodian said.
"Yes," Obi-Wan said, as he placed the two glasses on
the table. "Mont Yermo?"
"Who wants to know?" The blond man pushed the two women
off his lap as he straightened.
"Names Ben. I'm looking for information."
"Hmm. And of course you immediately thought of me?"
Yermo laughed heartily. "Sit down, have a drink." He
pushed one of his companion's drink toward Obi-Wan. Obi-Wan returned
the glass to its owner. "So, what you want to know?"
"I'm trying to track down two slaves."
"Hah!" The group started laughing. Yermo chuckled a
few seconds longer. "Can you be a little more specific?"
"A woman and child. Shmi and Anakin Skywalker."
Yermo frowned. "That would be about eighteen years ago. The
Cursed Ship...Most of the slaves on that ship died, years ago.
Leave." He motioned for his companions to go. He waited for
them to depart, then gestured for the two men to sit. Obi-Wan
sat across from Yermo, Mace moved slightly, but didn't sit. "Why?"
Yermo lowered his voice.
"I need to know where they came from. And not all died. Anakin
is still alive."
"Lucky kid then. So am I." He studied Obi-Wan, then
Mace before he continued. "Eighteen years ago, I was hired
by this Neimodian to smuggle slaves off his world." Obi-Wan
looked at him suspiciously. "Yea, I was surprised too. Those
Trade Federation types prided themselves on not dealing with slaves."
Yermo shrugged. "Crummy looking bunch. Most died within hours
of leaving the planet. A number of the crew became sick too. The
woman was worried about her kid--he was only three or four, I
think. Very bright for his age though. Funny that I remember the
name. Felt sorry for them when Gardulla bought them. I try to
avoid working for Hutts." He looked up expectantly. "So,
Anakin is still alive?"
"Yes," Obi-Wan nudged slightly with the Force to direct
the conversation away from Anakin and the present. "Do you
know where they came from?"
Yermo shook his head. "Nah...I learned long ago that avoiding
questions or speculations was one very good way to stay alive.
I also left the slave business for the same reason. I do remember
the woman was confused and terrified and that her kid had his
nose in everything. Does that help?"
"Yes, it does." Obi-Wan pulled out several credits.
"Thanks for your help."
"Hey, no problem. Glad to hear the kid is okay." Obi-Wan
smiled politely as he stood. Mace followed him through the crowd.
"Neimodia again," Mace whispered at the doorway.
Obi-Wan nodded. "Yes..." Jedi didn't believe in coincidences.
Maybe, just maybe, they would find what they needed.
"Don't get your hopes up," Mace said. "There is
something else."
"Sidious is ready," Obi-Wan said. "He is no longer
as concerned with secrecy. We must stop him, on this all depends."
Mace closed his eyes and turned away. Obi-Wan didn't press the
matter, but realized the Master wasn't telling everything. "Master
Windu?"
"Nothing," Mace straightened. "It was nothing."
Both Jedi stared at each other. Another sensation. "The ship,"
Mace said as they started running.
#
Baryl dove behind the container, the phaser bolt from the marauders
had been a little too close. She fired toward the source. She
was furious with herself for getting caught like this. She had
been checking the exterior of the ship, when they'd barged in.
Seven, a mixed group of aliens and humans; thieves probably. She
raised her head, and immediately ducked as a yellow bolt burnt
into the container. She heard Artoo's pitiful whimper from inside
the ship. She had no idea who the attackers were, ship thieves
or Sidious' henchmen. It could easily be either. Considering their
timing, it was probably robbers. She hadn't been able to get inside,
but she had managed to position herself to prevent them from boarding.
The body of the Dug who had tried, lay sprawled across the ramp.
She fired at a movement, and smiled at the yelp. "Surrender
now," a voice said. "We'll just take your ship..."
"Like Hell I will," she fired at the sound of the voice.
"I need that ship."
She ducked lower as the six remaining thieves all fired in her
direction. She could hear the sound of blasters, but there was
a new sound. Cautiously she glanced around the corner.
The two Jedi had arrived. Timely arrivals must be their specialty,
she thought as she watched them spin and jump, blocking shots
with their lightsabers. It was amazing. Mace Windu's turquoise
saber sliced through a container exposing one of her attackers.
The human bolted out of the docking bay. Soon the thieves had
all fled, except for one wounded individual. Obi-Wan held out
his hand, but the Gand male slapped his hand away. "Interfering
Jedi, boss will be very unhappy with you."
Obi-Wan shrugged. "Tell your boss I'm not very happy with
him."
The Gand stood slowly, cradling his injured arm. "He will
come after you..."
"He'll have to stand in line," Obi-Wan said as he hooked
his saber on his belt. Baryl stood and walked over. "We found
what we wanted..." The Gand ran out, muttering more threats
that she easily ignored as she silently cursed for not pursuing
the Neimodian lead months ago.
"You wouldn't have known what to look for, then," Obi-Wan
reminded her. She recognized the truth of that.
"We'd better be going then," she said. "The port
authorities will want to ask a lot of questions." The two
Jedi agreed, the last thing they needed was questions.
Anakin wandered through the streets of Theed, the Naboo capital.
Even after the Trade Federation invasion, there hadn't been this
kind of damage. Most of the palace had been leveled. He looked
around. The Republic had brought in tents and supplies, but it
wasn't enough. He wondered how the Gungan had fared. He'd heard
rumors that their underwater cities had been decimated. He kicked
at a rock. During his free time, he'd searched for someone who
could tell him about Amidala, but Brandel kept ordering him out
on more patrols.
"Hey you," someone shouted. Anakin looked up. The stone
had landed at the feet of two Republic soldiers. "Sorry,
sir." The soldier said as he recognized Anakin's rank and
saluted. Anakin glanced at the two prisoners as he gave a half-hearted
salute in return.
"Clones?"
"Yes sir, seems some were left behind when their fleet fled."
"Excellent work..." Anakin stared at the two clones
as they marched past. He reached out with his hand as he smiled.
The clone closest to him collapsed to the ground. He walked away.
#
Supreme Chancellor Palpatine stood at the opening to his shuttle
and stared at the ruins of Naboo: showing an appropriate amount
of horror at what he saw. He stepped regally off his transport
and made his way over to the young man who had taken Amidala's
place as the ruler of the Naboo. "Your majesty. It is with
great sorrow that we meet again."
"Supreme Chancellor, your visit today is unexpected,"
King Marlasa said.
"You were expecting the leadership of the Independent Alliance?"
Palpatine watched with satisfaction at the man's hesitant nod.
"I understand they will be arriving shortly. Perhaps this
tragedy will remind the galaxy that we should be fighting the
clones, not each other." He froze for a split second. A definite
disturbance in the Force, one he'd come to recognize very well.
He allowed himself a small smile as looked around. His young apprentice
was doing very well. He could feel Anakin's anger at the destruction,
his need to strike out--and then he felt the young man do just
that. The group started walking through the rubble. Marlasa occasionally
stopped to point out sites where there had been great tragedy
or a heroic rescue. Palpatine gently continued to guide them to
where he wanted to be.
"Sir," Anakin said as Palpatine approached.
"Commander Skywalker." Palpatine glanced around quickly.
He noticed the group of soldiers carrying away the body of a man.
"A clone?"
"Yes, sir. A prisoner. He apparently just died." Anakin
shrugged slightly. "Sir, do you know if Amidala survived?"
"She wasn't on the planet," King Marlasa said from behind
Palpatine. "I understand that she will be accompanying the
Alliance fleet that will be arriving soon." Palpatine watched
Anakin as the younger man smiled. He focused his irritation at
the failed attempt on her life. She had to go, or Skywalker would
never completely open himself to the darkside.
Anakin nodded. "Thank-you, your majesty. I need to return
to the fleet. Sir." Palpatine felt the anger ebb in his apprentice
and frowned.
"Go ahead. The Admiral shouldn't be kept waiting." Palpatine
didn't watch him leave. "Now," he said as he turned
toward Marlasa. "The rest of the supply fleet will be here
tomorrow. It is unusual for the Galactic Republic to offer such
relief effort for a planet that isn't...How can I be diplomatic
about this?"
"You don't have to be, sir," Marlasa said sadly. "The
council will meet this afternoon."
"Naboo is my home," Palpatine said. "The destruction
of where I grew up saddens me."
"It does us all," Marlasa said. "I will argue with
the council that we need to rethink our position within the Independent
Alliance."
Baryl leaned back in the pilot's chair and shook her head. "Spaarti?
No one knows where it is." When she'd asked for his help
three months ago, she'd had no idea just how complicated their
task would become. Now they were on their way to Neimodia--the
center of the former Trade Federation--to follow their most recent
clue. She barely heard Obi-Wan's comment as she puzzled over their
mission.
"If it was easy," Obi-Wan said. "It wouldn't be
a job for a Jedi. Our only hope, now, is to find his mysterious
base and destroy it."
She had to agree it was quite possibly one of a few options left
to them. "Besides hiding onboard one of those clone ships,
do you have any ideas..." Her voice trailed off. "You're
kidding?"
"That's basically the plan. Any help on your part would be
greatly appreciated."
"And what does your friend say?" She glanced at Mace.
Mace looked up. "It is a risky endeavor--but one that must
be done." He fell silent and returned to his meditation.
She noticed Obi-Wan also studying the Jedi Master, his eyes clouded
with concern.
"Then I would suggest using a captured clone shuttle or fighter
to board one of the destroyers. Then wait." Obi-Wan agreed,
as he sent a quick message to Amidala. She was the only one who
knew what they were doing. Five minutes later they had a reply.
"It's from Bel Iblis," Obi-Wan said. She leaned over
to see, a surge of panic filled her --something must have happened
to Amidala. She didn't say anything as she read the message. Amidala
was fine, but the message was even more disturbing. Naboo had
been devastated by a clone attack. She grabbed Obi-Wan's hand
as they stared at the screen, but it was Mace who spoke quietly
from behind them.
"His own world...He's ready." The words he didn't say,
were 'it's too late.' She hated the fatalistic sound of that.
"No, we will succeed. Somehow, some way. There must be a
way." she said as Obi-Wan gripped her hand tighter. They
had to try.
Admiral Brandel waited impatiently for the Supreme Chancellor
to acknowledge him. He was still fuming that he hadn't been notified
about the Supreme Chancellor's arrival. And now, protocol be damned.
His fingers gripped the package he was holding tighter. He would
try to convince Palpatine that he was correct about Skywalker.
If Palpatine was bothered by the admiral's impatience, he didn't
show it as he greeted Brandel. This irritated Brandel even more,
and he didn't bother to hide it as he placed the package on the
desk--or rather what had once been a desk. Brandel growled to
himself. The Supreme Chancellor should be onboard his flagship,
not holding meetings in the burned out shell of the Naboo capital.
"Admiral, are you well?" Palpatine asked.
"Fine, thank-you," he replied reflexively. "I know
you believe Commander Skywalker, is a fine young officer, but
I beg to differ." He opened the package and showed the remnants
of a metal-grate. "There have been a number of mysterious
things happening since he arrived. This was from a few days ago."
The Chancellor took the piece.
Palpatine ran his finger over the sliced edge. "Interesting...Cut
with something that produces a lot of energy. Anything serious?"
"No sir. Just annoying. But I believe Skywalker is responsible."
"Belief and proof are two different things. You cannot charge
him just because you believe he is guilty. You need proof. A witness?"
Palpatine raised his hand slightly. "You will look for that
proof."
"I'll find the proof."
"Excellent. Perhaps it would be best if Skywalker remained
on patrol duty," he said as he lowered his hand. "I'm
placing you in charge of the relief efforts. It looks like that
we may have a large number of refugees leaving the planet."
"I'll need transport ships, sir."
"I can arrange that," Palpatine said. "You are
to provide the escort for the convoy." He ran his finger
over the piece of metal and handed it back to Brandel.
"Of course, sir."
Brandel ran his finger over the same piece of metal four times
as he waited for his shuttle. Something that produced a lot of
energy--Hell, blasters did--and everyone had one of those. He
just needed proof.
Amidala concentrated hard to maintain a cool exterior as her shuttle
approached her home. Even from the lower atmosphere she could
see the damage. She wanted to scream. How dare he do this to her
home and his.
"This is bombad bad," Jar-jar muttered again from his
window seat. He'd repeated the phrase several times on their way
down. Amidala patted his shoulder, not able to offer much more
comfort than that. Jar-jar would seek the Gungan. They had vanished
after the attack--except for a few who, in shock, spoke only in
terms of horror and terror. She turned toward her Jedi companions.
"Can you sense Anakin?"
Nejaa Halcyon closed his eyes. "There is someone strong in
the Force." He shook his head sadly. "But I can't tell
if it is Skywalker. Seeing him may not be wise. There is a darkness
that surrounds him."
"I understand, but I must try..." She looked out the
window as the shuttle hovered a few meters above the surface,
then landed. She could see the officials that waited for them.
The two Jedi that Obi-Wan had asked to keep an eye on her were
watching her carefully as she prepared to exit the ship.
She bowed politely as the young king greeted her. "It's awful."
It was. The great palace was a shell, the other buildings were
mostly rubble. A few were intact like the temple. She shivered
as the wind howled through the empty streets.
Marlasa sadly agreed. "The Supreme Chancellor agrees."
"Palpatine is here?" She looked around quickly. This
was something she had not expected--but realized she should have--Nejaa
had sensed a dark presence. She had to take a second to control
her rising fear. She had to avoid him, somehow. It would be difficult,
she had no logical excuse.
Marlasa turned away. "He came with the Republic relief ships.
We made some...concessions..."
"What concessions?" She realized with a start just what
those concessions were. "No, you couldn't have!" The
pain in her voice was unmistakable.
"The council agreed yesterday afternoon, and Supreme Chancellor
Palpatine approved our petition to rejoin the Republic."
She couldn't bring herself to look at the man as he spoke, even
if she recognized his own pain.
"I don't understand. I thought the council understood..."
"Understood?" Marlasa said as he waved his hand to indicate
the destroyed buildings surrounding them. "Too well we understand.
And what did it bring us? Just look at this place. If we had remained
with the Galactic Republic, none of this would have happened."
"You're right. None of this would have happened," she
retorted angrily. "But not for the reasons you want to believe.
Don't you see? He's using us, the clones, the war, our fears to
gain power. Such power you can't imagine..."
Marlasa laughed unpleasantly. "Your anger at what has happened
here must be overwhelming. You are saying things you can't possibly
mean. Or are you so jealous?"
"Jealous?" Her anger at everything hit her full force.
"No. Scared, terrified, yes. And if you can't see it--"
"See what? I see a chance to help my world. What can the
Alliance offer us?"
"Peace and freedom," she started to say, but Marlasa
angrily cut her off.
"What galaxy are you dreaming in?" He softened his voice.
"You are the great Naboo hero. We all strive to obtain the
same love and respect you so rightly deserve. Please, can you
not see your way to supporting the council decision?"
"No. I cannot agree with the council." Her voice was
also soft.
The king shook his head. "Then we'll have to appoint another
representative to the Galactic Republic Senate."
"You will regret this decision. Mark my words. And I want
you to remember them. In five years, should the opportunity present
itself, I want nothing more than to hear you say you were right."
She took a deep breath and fought back the tears. "Really,
I do. I so want to be wrong."
"I don't understand?" Marlasa looked confused.
"Trust me, you will," she said ominously. She nearly
grabbed his hand. She was tempted to shout her fears about Palpatine.
"I'm sorry," Marlasa said quietly. "But I'm meeting
with representatives of the Galactic Senate. We will gladly accept
any help your Alliance can give." They bowed politely and
parted.
Her eyes looked upward. "Please," she whispered. "Please
show me I'm wrong." The wind roared by as a movement in the
upstairs window caught her attention. She stared at the figure
watching her: at that moment she realized she was not wrong. She
could feel the Supreme Chancellor's hatred of her. She turned
and walked away.
#
Palpatine watched her leave with a malevolent smile. One of the
last obstacles in his plans. She bound Skywalker to the light
and thus had to go. He slowly turned from the window. The assassin
had been notified. This time there would be no clumsy blunders.
The other obstacle was on the far side of the galaxy, marching
toward an inevitable date with his final destiny. A destiny that
would mark Skywalker's final steps down the dark path.
Bail watched the temple ceremony with great misgivings. He'd been
saddened by Naboo's return to the Republic, but not surprised.
He glanced at Amidala, wondering at her reticence. She had met
with the Naboo king and several of the counselors in an attempt
to convince them not to do this. The past few hours she'd withdrawn
into silence. He'd wondered if she would even attend the ceremony.
He returned his attention to the young king as he welcomed the
Supreme Chancellor and thanked him for the assistance from the
Republic. Palpatine's comments were that the Republic would welcome
back any member of the Alliance: they were on the same side after
all. The crowd that had gathered, cheered quietly. Bail could
see and hear the incredible sorrow of the citizens of Naboo. Amidala
left at that point. He sighed. That she would leave Naboo rather
than remain in the Republic, disturbed him--even though he didn't
understand her actions. He turned quickly as he felt someone approach.
"Supreme Chancellor," he said politely.
"Senator Organa. I wish to talk to you. This clone war must
be ended."
"I agree." Bail winced slightly under the chancellor's
scrutiny.
"I propose that the Alliance and Republic unite in our common
cause."
Bail hesitated. There was a spy in the upper echelons of the Republic,
he didn't want to expose his forces to anymore ambushes, but Palpatine
had the advantage. He'd made the offer--if the Alliance turned
it down, they would probably lose more members to the Republic.
"I'll have to talk to the others."
"That's all I ask," Palpatine said. "There is another
matter. I've been informed that many of the Naboo wish to leave.
It will be several decades before the planet's resources recover.
We need ships to take them to the refugee centers."
An all to common occurrence. Both sides had moved innumerable
refugees in the past few months. Resources all around were being
stretched thin. The Alliance centers on Sullusti and Alderaan
were full. He knew this was true of the Republic too--but they
did have more resources. "I'll contact the fleet and make
the arrangements." Palpatine inclined his head slightly in
acknowledgment, then continued walking. Bail studied the departing
figure carefully as a little boy ran up and tugged on the Chancellor's
robe.
"Mister, why?" The boy asked. He couldn't have been
more than ten or so. Palpatine hesitated, then placed a hand on
the boys shoulder.
Bail heard Palpatine say slowly. "What's your name?"
"Rwat, sir." The boy backed away a step. Bail watched,
transfixed as the boy gamely tried not to cry. "My family
is dead. Why did this happen?"
Palpatine was silent for several seconds before answering, all
the while his eyes searched the room, then focused on Bail. "Why
is your family dead? I cannot tell you, Rwat. There are dark and
sinister forces to be found in the galaxy, yet those who were
supposed to have been our protectors have not served us well."
Palpatine coldly stared at Bail--who blanched slightly at the
veiled hint of Jedi complicity. Palpatine continued to ignore
the boy, letting his words reach out toward the others. "The
Republic troops were too late to help our people, but there is
hope for us and the rest of the galaxy--but only if we stand firmly
united against those who would tear us apart." The boy bit
his lip, then ran off. Palpatine smiled with a hint of triumph
as his impromptu speech was met with applause. Bail stared at
him, confused by the words and the man's demeanor. The Naboo were
cheered by the words--perhaps he was seeing things, putting more
meaning to words that were nothing more than words...
Suddenly, Bail felt cold, as he remembered words people had said
over the past six months, at Y'mala, the coincidences, Amidala...words
his wife had said. The words swirled about his mind. Dark and
sinister forces were to be found in the galaxy, but some were
closer...Much closer...Palpatine's smile grew icier as he turned
away from Bail and continued walking out.
Kinman Doriana rubbed his hands in delight as watched the senate
proceedings from his office. Recent events on Naboo and elsewhere
had finally galvanized the Republic Senate to act. He'd been working
many years to bring this about. For years he'd worked to show
the Senate that a strong central government was needed to keep
the peace. That without this, the Galactic Republic would fall
apart. Few had listened, even fewer had been willing to do anything.
He'd known Senator Palpatine for years. Like himself, Palpatine
was in favor of a strong central government and was against the
Jedi, but unable to act against their evil tendencies because
of public perception. Kinman had served the senator years earlier
when he'd quietly, and almost disastrously, handled a Jedi problem.
Others had intervened and it had been luck that he'd survived.
What hadn't been luck, was Palpatine's interest in eliminating
the Jedi--a task Kinman relished. A task he'd dreamed of since
a young child, when a decision made by a Jedi had led to his mother's
death.
He returned his concentration to the image of the senate arena.
Senator Drey'lya, true to his word, was summing up the reasons
that the Galactic Republic needed to be strengthened. He smiled
at the words. The timing was exquisite. The Chancellor's homeworld
had been devastated by the very forces that fought against a unified
galaxy. Forces that thrived on chaos and disagreement. The clones
and their masters, the Jedi.
There was applause as Senator Drey'lya finished with his speech
and proposal. Lady d'Aryl of Commenor positioned her box. "My
fellow Senators. I second the honorable Senator's motion that
we open debate on this." There was more applause and cheers.
Then a third voice called out. "Is it coincidence that these
events happen now?" Kinman didn't recognize the voice. He
traced the interrupter to the Wookie delegation. They'd been quiet
for most of the deliberation. The Wookie senator continued. The
translator distorted his voice some. "There have been calls
that the Jedi be banned for their connection to the clones. I
have seen no evidence of such a connection, just fear. But I ask
again, is it just coincidence? We are here today to debate offering
the Supreme Chancellor incredible power by naming him Emperor.
I see too many coincidences and too many unanswered questions..."
Doriana leaned back in his chair as the Wookie was drowned out
by the shouts of derision from the other senators. They would
vote after much debate, he figured a couple of months at the most.
There would be negative votes, but not enough to stop Palpatine
from becoming Emperor.
But for the first time in his long service with Palpatine, he
wondered. Was it just coincidence?
Garm slammed the switch and shut the holo-imager off. "They
can't. It goes against everything the Galactic Republic has stood
for."
Mon Mothma shook her head as she reached out to touch his hand.
"Maybe reason and sense will prevail. Ten thousand years
of tradition and law can't be thrown out on such a whim."
Garm relaxed a bit, his anger calming.
"Maybe. I just can't believe the Supreme Chancellor is allowing
this to happen."
"Power does strange things. It won't be the first time that
someone has tried to grab power." She stared thoughtfully
at the blank screen. "In the past it has been done with armies
and ships."
"Hell," Garm said. "I can fight those. The Senate
is just scared that the clones will win and those who control
them will secure the power for themselves."
"But who controls them?" Mon Mothma asked. Garm silently
pondered the question as he stood.
"I don't know. They say it is the Jedi. I just don't see
it. And I think I find that worrying." For over ten years
the clones had been a nuisance. In the past six months, they'd
become a coherent and dangerous menace: a real threat to galactic
peace and stability. The galaxy was being bombarded by threats
from all sides: the clones, the senate.
"You know--" Mon Mothma said as she pushed her chair
back, "--the Jedi don't believe in coincidence."
"How else do you explain things?" Garm asked angrily.
"Colar leaves the Republic, joins the Alliance and their
world is destroyed. The Durol were then destroyed by a clone attack
within days of voicing their wish to leave the Republic..."
He stopped as his words made sense. There was a pattern--but how
could it be more than coincidence?
"Garm," Mon Mothma said quietly. "You're scaring
me."
"I'm scaring myself. Look, if this is true..."
She buried her head in her hands. "Perhaps the rumor is true?"
"Which one?" There were innumerable rumors out there,
most so unbelievable as to be rejectable upon hearing them.
"The one that the Sith have risen from the dead and are seeking
their revenge against the galaxy and the Jedi."
"I can't believe that. They've been dead for a thousand years."
Though there had been the rumored existence of a Sith Lord ten
years earlier after events on Naboo.
"How do we know?" Mon Mothma looked up at him. "The
galaxy is a big place--plenty of room to hide. And the Jedi are
among the victims."
Garm stared at her, as a sudden thought so horrifying that he
couldn't believe it raced through his mind. But it did fit the
facts--as did one other thing. "Naberrie knows."
She nodded. "I believe so. I've watched her. She's terrified
of something."
"Or someone," Garm added. "You know," he continued
in a whisper. "There is one person who..."
Her eyes opened wide. "I know."
Chapter 6 of
A Lost Hope