Re: Naboo: The Hidden Threat

After a long discussion with Koto and his recruit, Saevita dismissed them. She watched the armored figure leave, then nodded to Koto. But as he turned to leave himself, Saevita spoke up in a low voice. "Apprentice. Stop."

Koto stopped, his hand at the door controls, turning his head to look at her. "Master?"

She stood – smiled. "Stay a moment. I wish to speak with you."

He frowned softly, dark eyes flashing. "About what, Master?"

She continued smiling the way some sharks smile and stepped towards him, her eyeless gaze on all of him. "About your behavior, I think."

Concern crossed his face. "Master?"

"We Miraluka are eyeless, Koto. Not blind." She began to circle him, reaching out and brushing her fingers over his shoulders, the back of his neck. "I can feel the weight of your eyes, apprentice, and I know where it lands." She lay her hand over her pendant, her breasts, as she came full circle to face him again.

"The pendant, Master," he answered immediately, not refusing to look down. "It draws the eye."

"Yet it seems to hold yours."

His eyes narrowed then, his mind frantically trying to calculate what she was getting at. "This is a trick," he said at last, "a test. You're trying to get me to say the wrong thing."

"Not everything between us is a test, apprentice." She circled him, pausing behind him, her chest against his back, to whisper in his ear with a voice full of dark promises. "Sometimes, it's a reward." She slid her arm around his stomach.

She felt the muscles in his back tighten. He was silent for a while, and she sensed him searching for the right question to ask first. He finally chose one: "Reward for what?"

Saevita stepped away from him, her arm falling from around him, and went to the window, looking out, sensing out. "I asked you to find me a Naboo citizen who would give us problems, and you failed." She turned to look at him. "But you tried, at least. You made more of an effort than Halcyon ever would. And the man you brought me – he can be used." She looked down at her fingernails, then let her arm fall to her side. "Halcyon is a fool. An imbecile. His life is a whole ballad of failures. But I do not think yours is, and so I'm willing to forgive and forget."

Koto stared at her for a moment before nodding slowly. "I think I see the complement in there, so… thank you."

"You're welcome."

"So… You're rewarding me for not being a complete failure?"

The look of uncertainty, the look of "this has to be a test," was so vivid on his face that Saevita burst out laughing, a surprisingly sweet sound. "In a word, yes." She spread her arms. "Unless you think I shouldn't."

"No, Master." He smirked, shaking his head. "Reward to your heart's content."

"And I plan on it." She smiled, then reached out a hand and flicked her fingers, grabbing ahold of him in the Force and pulling. His boots squeaked on the marble floor as she pulled him to her, right up against her, and she gripped his arms in her hands, digging her fingernails in. He blinked, staring down at her, but she didn't let go of her painful grip.

"What… what are you doing?" he tried, but she put a finger to his lips.

"I'm going out this evening," she replied softly, squeezing his arms harder. "When you sense my return, come to me here. I'll have your reward."

He stared down at her, his eyes flashing. She suddenly seemed oblivious to her grip. "What reward?"

"Pleasure." She arched one eyebrow. "Pain. Both. Whatever you wish. I will bring you to places your body and mind have never been, and you will ache for it."

He stared at her for a long moment, then smirked. "And if I say 'no'?"

She smirked back. "Then you will spend the rest of your lifetime wishing you had taken the opportunity."

He chuckled, shaking his head. "I will… consider."

"Good." She brushed a finger over his lips. "I'll be back at sundown. If you're interested, you can find me here." She stepped back, turning, giving him her bare back, revealing her Sith-symbol-shaped burn scars. "And if not, then I will see you in the morning."

She watched through the back of her head as he stared at her for a long time, his mind working at lightspeed. Then he gave a small bow. "With your leave, Master." He turned and ducked out.


Saevita laughed aloud at DuPont's little joke, her arm in his. "Goodness, you are a charming man, Mr. DuPont. I'm so glad I came to you with this."

"And so am I!" he chuckled. "Come, now, I'll show you what we have."

They were in a conference room overlooking the manufacturing plant, just Saevita, DuPont, and a couple aides taking notes. As Saevita watched, DuPont stood and went to a large, cloth covered object and folded his arms. "Madam, I would like to introduce you personally to the SD-19 in its prototype form."

He pulled the sheet away to reveal a 6'2"-tall droid that had an almost human body from the waist up and several spider-like legs below. When DuPont activated it, it regarded Saevita with a cool metallic gaze before starting to cross the floor. The multiple legs moved with more grave and speed than Saevita thought possible, and DuPont nodded. "We took liberty with its method of locomotion. With this leg structure, it can move very quickly, and over almost any terrain."

Saevita stood, started to circle it. "Looks good. Looks downright creepy, actually… What about weaponry?"

"Not installed, yet, though there will be blasters and the like. Honestly, we just wanted the body shape for your approval."

She studied it for a moment, then nodded. "It's a good design – it displays strength, agility, and adaptation."

DuPont nodded. "And it will still be able to function so long as three of its limbs remain, so it can take a good amount of damage."

"It's upper torso?"

"Heavily armored."

"Hmmm…" She circled it, then nodded. "Good. I shall inform my… superior. You've done well, Mr. DuPont. Call me when the first one is finished. I'd like to test it."

He nodded. "Absolutely, my Lady. I'm glad you are pleased."


If one thing could be said for the Naboo people, it was that they were effecient at what they could do. Saevita smiled to herself as she returned to the palace after sundown and headed straight for her quarters. The droids are good. Sythis will be so pleased…

Her quarters were filled with the light of sunset from the large window, and it gave her pause. She stared out the window, thinking at the back of her mind that the woman she used to be would've admired such beauty.

But I'm not that woman anymore.

She chuckled, shedding her cloak and dropping it on the arm of her chair, then reaching up and untying her braid, letting her hair fall in curls around her shoulders. She chuckled again, curious to see of Koto would show up or not. If he does, it should be a wild night… and if not, then at least I'll finally have time to get some work done. With a smirk, she sank onto the couch with a datapad to prepare a message for her master.

Re: Naboo: The Hidden Threat

“Koto you fool, what are you waiting for?” He said to himself as he continued pacing back and forth in the hallway.  He had come back from his quarters where he had taken a much needed shower and meditation.   When he got out from the shower a K3PO droid had already laid out clothes for him.  He dressed in the Jedi attire, although he felt anything but what a Jedi stood for.  He made his way back to the hallway outside of the quarters his new master was in to this point of him pacing back and forth.

Over the short time of knowing Adena, Koto had felt as if she reminded him of someone from his past who he could out a finger on it.  His mind was still recovering, maybe that person would come in to him eventually maybe it wouldn’t, the only thing that was true was that he couldn’t shake the feeling.  Not the evil attitude but her mannerism and the way she seductively talked to him.  It was so familiar it was like he was in a trance from his past that he could solve.  Yet there were distinct differences between Adena and the person in his mind.  Koto was sure Adena was evil plain and simple, the other person Koto felt did evil acts, yet wasn’t evil at heart more compassionate.

“Who are you?” He whispered to himself as he broke his train of thought noticing many guards were now watching him pace back and forth talking to himself.  These ideas along with trying to figure out who Adena truly was racing though his mind.  According to one of the elected council members, she was sent by the Jedi to assist the King.  Koto didn’t believe that nonsense for a second yet if she had somehow manipulated the King and his councilmen without defiance; she had obtained Koto’s respect.  But the way she carried herself, told a different presence.  She was once good, or at least not completely evil.  She wasn’t always like this.  There must have been a time in her life when she

All of these different questions filled his mind yet he knew no answers would come unless he went in there.  He took a deep breath as he walked closer he felt numerous emotions rush to him; fear, excitement, worry, happiness all of these were what he was feeling.  He could sense beyond the door.  He took a deep breath and opened the door.

The room absolutely beautiful, adorned with many expensive materials.  Despite the beauty around the room Koto could only focus on the woman lying on the couch.  Shock was the only emotion that was now in his racing though his body.  He could feel his jaw drop, yet he couldn’t pull it up, she was beautiful.  The woman in front of him wasn’t the evil woman he had known.  Though Koto saw her hair was down, it was like someone else besides his master was before him.  As she stood there with a small smile, Koto could see it was something else besides the smile she was actually taking enjoyment in her smile rather than her usual sinister smile.

“I’m glad you choose to come.”

“I am to, master.”  Koto replied slowly walking towards the couch she was on.  The doors slammed in back of him no doubt from his master as she cocked her left eyebrow up.  He summoned the force and pulled Adena into his arms from the chair.  “You know your not the only one who can do that type of stuff.”  Koto was now face to face with his master, arms wrapped around each other.  Koto leaned in for a kiss, they were so close to kissing each other Koto could feel her breath, before feeling the small round cylinder on the right side of his abdomen.  He knew before he even looked down, a light saber hilt with his master’s index finger over the button.  As he gave a sigh while his master smile turned,

“Now, now, you must always know what you enemy has hidden from view before exposing yourself.  That’s your first lesson apprentice.”

Koto gave a nod of agreement.

“What’s the second?”  Koto looked at his master who just smiled and pulled him in for a kiss.  “Enjoy your prey, feel the excitement it gives you” she said as she the two began to embrace…

Koto sat up from the couch catching his breathe as beads of sweat trickled down his face.  He didn’t even know what to say, he was in shock.  Still breathing hard he turned to see Saevita, laying on her back looking upside down at him also breathing hard, the thin covers revealing her body.

“Well done master.”  Really that’s the only thing you could say smooth Koto real smooth, he thought to himself.  Saevita didn’t respond but turned to the doors.  Koto felt it also, he sense a force user approaching.  Koto wrapped himself into the sheet before summoned the light saber into his left hand as the user approached.  Saevita readjusted herself on the couch as she didn’t look worried.  Koto looked at the corner of his eye at this then turned back to the door.  “You know who this is?”  Saevita took a deep sigh “Unfortunately.”

A man opened to door, as soon as Koto saw him he felt as if he had a huge case of deja-vu.  He knew this man, some how he knew this man.

The man didn’t stopped walking towards them till he was a couple few meters away.  “Who are you?” Koto asked still trying to search through his broken mind for where he knew him from.  The man looked over to Saevita:

“I see you've found yourself a new toy, careful pal, she bites."

She gave a mocking laugh at the man.  “Oh poor Luke, what’s the matter jealous.”

“Please, I’ve been down that path, trust me not much to miss.  Don’t forget Adena, who made you.”  Koto was confused at this conversation.  What were they talking about?  The last thing this Luke guy said seemed to get under Saevita’s skin.  “Koto deal with this trash!”  Koto didn’t know what to do, part of him wanted to prove himself in front of his master, part of him wanted to sit down and watch the drama unfold.  But he knew that she might kill him just for not following orders.

Koto activated the blade the tip pointing adjacent to his leg.  “No hard feelings” Koto said before lunging forward.

“None taken” Luke replied as he returned Koto’s action.

Re: Naboo: The Hidden Threat

Soma had spent much time deep in meditation, searching for answers, trying to see the future that at this time was fast in motion and impossible to see.  He thought of the past, it always had a way of guiding him to the future not always to an answer but in the right direction at the very least.  He thought of former masters, friends, battles, death, and mentors long passed.  He thought of distant places he'd been…and some not so distant until he finally felt a common on Naboo.  It was here his fate had changed forever, where the blurred lines of the force became so clear.  As he focused on Naboo the past as it always did found a way to focus his mind on the future and focus the lines once again.  It was at that moment he felt a shimmer in the force, elusive, intent on being concealed.  Images of the future raced into his mind, pain, suffering, and then that of an eyeless woman kneeling before her master.  

"Rise, you've done well my apprentice.  Alas the Sith will rule the galaxy and the Jedi will be no more."

Soma opened his eyes his mind clear of thought.  “Finally, returned an ally has to finally rid the galaxy of the Jedi.”  To Naboo he knew he must go, his life in seclusion was over.  

The jump from Zonama Sekot to the Chommel Sector was shorter than Soma expected.  He had chosen to enter a hibernation trance to avoid the more boring aspects of space travel.  It had been so long since he last traveled not to mention he didn’t much care for flying to begin with.  Upon entering the sector he quickly engaged his ships cloaking device intent not to draw attention from Naboo security.  

"Sir?"  A Naboo security controller motioned for his superior.

“What is it?”

“I don’t know sir, we initially picked up an unregistered ship but…..it just vanished.”

“Vanished?”

“Yes sir, no signs of it at all now, perhaps it jumped back out.”

“Ah, things have been tight, edgy probably just anxiety, don’t stress about it.  If it’s gone it’s gone.”

Soma put the ship down on the outskirts of the capital so he could approach the city unnoticed.  Fewer questions asked of him at this point the better.  There was much unrest planet wide stress and tension was unusually high.  Whether or not he wanted any part of it he was to determine later.  The force had called to him from here and he was intent on finding its source, this woman who could lead him to her master.

The terrain was very familiar; he had traveled it many times in the past and made quick work of it.  Security seemed very tight but was stretched thin.  It made his access to the city that much easier.  He came across the occasional patrol but he was very powerful in the force and was able to evade them with ease.  Slight distractions and mind tricks allowed him to slip by as just a memory.  As Soma entered the capital he could feel the force much stronger now.  The shimmer he felt earlier was much clearer.  Lies, deception he could sense much of it, a plot of some sort well concealed.  The dark side surrounded this place its users confident in their own right of its energy, perhaps to confident of their ability to wield its destructive powers.  

“They are so sure of themselves, hmmm so young, so foolish.  To conceal themselves from a master they have not yet conquered.”

For the most part they had tried to close their minds from outside users of the force and a good job they were doing.  Suddenly he could feel the ripple of the force echo outwards.  Anger and aggression, he could feel the sensation of combat, the force being wielded in a manner to kill, it was a sensation he had left behind many years ago when he chose a life of seclusion.  It was refreshing and he didn’t realize how much he had missed it.  One of the combatants’ ability to use the force had faded, almost as if forgotten.  It was hard for an untrained force user to be mindful of their thoughts and in engage in combat at the same time.  The force was an invaluable tool once mastered but a dangerous one unpolished.  Allowing it to control your actions was easy but making it obey your every command was tricky.   

Thoughts were quick to betray a person especially when the right person was looking, like a Dark Jedi Master.  He reached out to touch this persons’ mind.  He quickly passed his mental block he had hoped to maintain, many images flashed before him, confusion, secrets of the past forgotten, death, a master, a woman, a name then a location quickly followed.  

Koto immersed in combat suddenly felt cold, his mind tingled and as quickly as the sensation arrived it was gone.  He stepped back to regain himself, shook his head confused as if to shake off cob webs or a day dream.  He refocused himself then engaged once again.

Soma smiled to himself.

“All too easy, ones thoughts will always betray them”

It had turned dark and Soma had no trouble moving from place to place unnoticed until he finally arrived at the location he had just seen in Koto’s mind.  It was lavish indeed not to mention security was in tight detail.  As much as the thrill of lightsaber combat excited him, the battle raging inside he could feel was not his to fight, his destiny laid upon a different path.  He would need careful timing, for now he would have to wait for the right moment

Re: Naboo: The Hidden Threat

Continued from here.

<b>En route to Naboo via hyperspace. Aboard the flagship <i>Black Moon</I></b>.

When the call came, Darth Sivan along with her apprentice, Niobe Freelight, had been expecting it. She knew the secure comm would chime sooner or later. She knew when it did she would be summoned into the presence of her master. But that knowledge didn't make the task itself any less of an ordeal.

"Yes, of course," she growled at the Noghri guard who made the call. "We'll be there." If there was one thing Sivan understood, it was the value of punctuality.

She turned to her student. "It's time, Niobe. Time to meet the rest of your peers." The young woman remained quiet and simply nodded, still mourning the loss of her brother.

They exited and followed a curving corridor toward the turbolifts. There were plenty of crewmen about, even at this hour; predominantly humans, although she did notice a Rodian and a couple of Zabraks. Nearly all of them avoided her eyes as they hurried past.

Sivan and Niobe took an express lift to the inner sanctum of the Star Destroyer, just beneath the command tower. All too soon they found themselves standing before the door. They entered.

The Dark Lord's antechamber was large and sparse, if not just a bit smaller than the Grand Meeting Room that resided inside Bast Castle back on Vjun. Niobe distracted herself momentarily by admiring the design: the ceiling was vaulted, and the bulkheads flowed in a soothing pattern up to it, drawing the eye. It was by no means overfurnished; a few chairs, a couch, and a large round table were all she saw. The colors were subdued, the lighting soft with no visible source.

It would be a pleasant and relaxing room– were it not for the beings sitting around the round table. Sivan observed the members of the Sith Order had taken their seats: Darth Scira, Darth Hydran, and Darth Sangra. At the head of it was the being she feared more than anyone else in the galaxy.

"Do sit down, my apprentices," Darth Sythis spoke, gesturing to the empty seats next to him.

As they sat down, Sivan noticed Cryxes was not present. Perhaps Sythis locked him up? Or maybe he was left behind? No matter. She didn't care. Soon they would rendezvous with the rest of the Sith Order on Naboo. She wondered if Darth Saevita had already taken care of her mission.

Lord Sythis rose and began to pace around the room. His boots made soft sounds on the carpet; his dark robes whispered slightly as it flowed around him. Other than that, the only sound in the room was the regular thrum of the hyperdrive engines beneath the floor. Darth Sythis surveyed Sivan and her apprentice, his sunken yellow eyes undoubtedly reading far more than any normal eyes could. Niobe could feel chills running down her spine.

"Your report, Sivan, if you please."

The voice was rich, deep, soothing; the words unfailingly polite, as always. There would seem to be nothing overtly threatening in them; still, Sivan shivered as if the room had suddenly became a freezer. "My master, most of the Rogues have been eliminated in space above Vjun by my hand. Niobe and I disposed even more of the SpecForce commandos on the surface before the volcano consumed our headquarters. As far as the Jedi prisoners they have been…"

"Eliminated. So the Force has told me." Sythis made a dismissive gesture. "And the remaining New Republic fleet are of no concern to me. Their eventual final disposition is inevitable. Don't you agree?"

"Yes, my master," Sivan nodded. "Although they still claim victory over us."

"Oh yes… of course," Sythis mocked. "There is no question."

"So what is our next course?" Darth Hydran spoke up.

"We meet with Saevita and King Tymen on Naboo," Sythis continued, that silky, menacing voice squelching any opinion Hydran might have dared to offer. "I am hoping the construction of Tymen's droid army is almost finished, for his sake." The Dark Lord seemed to pause for a moment, as if considering, though his expression made no change. "Then we contact our spy within the Rogues," Lord Sythis continued. "The spy will tell us what the next step in the New Republic's plan will be. Most likely, the traitor Ceveir will be leading what is left of the Rogues in these plans." His dark tone became comtemplative, almost introspective. "We will then test… our droid army on them. In a trap. With the Rogues and Ceveir gone, we can then concentrate our efforts on the Jedi Order, then the New Republic itself."

"Can my master and I lead this attack, Master Sythis?" Niobe suddenly intervened. "Ceveir murdered my brother, and I wish to take my revenge on him!" Sivan turned and gave her a cold look.

Niobe regretted the statement almost immediately, but there was no way to take it back. Lord Sythis did not reply at once; he simply looked at the young woman, and the effect was like that of a hawkbat's gaze on its prey. Niobe could not move. Sythis raised his right hand in a small gesture, and Niobe felt a slight pressure around her throat. The paralyzing effect of Sythis's gaze vanished at the same time, but there was no longer any need for it; Niobe had gone rigid with fear.

Sivan raised her voice. "Master Sythis, I am sure my apprentice means no respect. She merely wishes to avenge the death of her brother."

The choking sensation vanished, almost as soon as it had begun; Niobe could scarcely be sure that she'd even experienced it at all. The Dark Lord lowered his hand. "I don't see the need to avenge the death of a <I>Jedi</I>… note this as a warning, Niobe. Sever your ties. You now belong to the Sith Order."

Niobe bowed her head. "Yes, Lord Sythis. Please forgive my outburst. As my master wishes, so shall it be."

"Excellent, my servant." He raised his gaze to the others. "We are done here. When next we meet, Darth Saevita and the rest of our servants will be among us on Naboo. We will then begin planning our taking of the galaxy as before."

He turned to Scira. "My apprentice, come with me. There is work to do."

The doorway near Scira immediately slid open. Lord Sythis turned away, and Scira followed as they exited.

Re: Naboo: The Hidden Threat

“No hard feelings.” Luke’s combatant uttered.  It wasn’t a question, more a declaration.  Luke knew what it meant, he knew that Adena’s command wasn’t optional.  He’d been there.  In many ways he still was there.  So as the dark skinned, sheet clothed opponent stepped towards him lightsaber ignited, Luke sincerely uttered…”None Taken”.  As his cloak flew off his shoulders through the force, Luke spun around igniting his sith blade.  His opponent tried to strike at his back, but Luke’s blade was there to intercept the strike.  The combatants locked their blades, each measuring the other.  The hiss of the blades hummed in the background, and as quickly as the moment began, it broke with Luke aggressively coming in with quick strikes to his opponent’s flanks.  The strikes were blocked easily, but Luke knew they would be.  This was the beginning of the duel, and these opening salvos were merely two warriors gauging each other’s flexibility, reaction time, and skill.

The two combatants danced with each other around the room, twisting and jumping to avoid each others deadly blades, creating a swath of slash marks on the marble floors and walls.  Luke seemed to have the upper hand early on, keeping Koto on the defensive with quick combos.  Attacking on Koto’s right trying to start another combo, Luke expected his foe to counter, but instead the dark-skinned man turned his body and blocked perpendicular to Luke’s blade, effectively stopping Luke’s momentum.  Twisting and stepping back to avoid a possible counter attack, Luke found himself defending against long and powerful overhead smashes.  Each one knocked Luke’s blade aside as if it wasn’t there.  Where this strength and skill had been moments before, Luke didn’t know, and he was now in trouble.  The tables had been turned, and Luke knew he did not possess the strength for a prolonged fight.  The exertion of the night before, and the strain on his emotions was making him tire prematurely.  He tried to draw on the force for strength, but he could feel that it would not be enough.  As a result of his fatigue, Luke barely managed to block a fast stab to the stomach.  He deflected it slightly, but soon found his lightsaber airborne above him, as Adena’s new pet flicked Luke’s weapon out of his hand.  

Koto was pleased with his disarming of this Luke character.  He was about to claim victory when pain exploded in his side.  Luke had reacted faster then Koto thought him capable, and had kneed his kidney.  Bringing his blade quickly around, Koto saw that Luke had caught his blade and they locked sabers for the second time.

“Not bad” Luke said with a grin.  He was desperately trying to hide his weariness, though his sweat was clearly erupting from his pores.  

“I’m just warming up” Koto said, breaking the lock and spinning away.  They circled each other, twirling their blades at their sides, and Luke analyzed the situation.  “Ok, unlike me, he had a good night’s sleep and is trying to impress Saevita.  I’m ready to fall down.  I need either a way to end this quickly, or a good cup of caf.”  The light from Adena’s far too luxurious bathroom caught Luke’s eye.  His memory was brought back to only a few days before, sitting in his own bathroom, and the jolt of energy he’d received from Adena’s attempted force push.  He didn’t quite know how he’d absorbed Adena’s force push, but it was the only idea he had.  

Koto attacked first again, and the two traded blows, criss-crossing the air in front of them.  Koto clearly had the advantage, forcing Luke to back up across the room.  Luke twisted and turned to deflect his opponent’s blades, letting the force guide his movements, but he could not find an opening and merely settled for not dying.  Locking blades with his adversary, Luke asked “You know Adena, I’m surprised that you would let your pet finish me off.”  Koto broke the lock, and the two traded blows back and forth.  Koto over extended during a side swipe and Luke tried to roundhouse him.  Koto back-flipped away to avoid the kick, Luke following through and into a ready stance, Koto did the same.  

“You’re not worth her time obviously” Koto answered Luke’s question, trying to score points with his new master.

“Really” Luke said breathing heavily “I thought she was saving me for herself.  I believe she was to show me the ‘true power of the sith’.  Oh well, guess not.”  Luke shrugged at Saevita.  “Shall we continue?” Luke asked turning back to Koto.  Koto summoned the force to his legs for a force jump when he heard “STOP!” ring out from the bed.  Saevita had slipped on her black satin robe during the fight, and walked sensuously forward.  

“A good effort my pupil, but this should have been finished by now.  Allow me to demonstrate how a true Sith would handle this situation.” Saevita hissed to Koto and he retreated behind her.  Luke kept his weapon at the ready, for he’d just switched the frying pan for the fryer.

“So you want to know the true power of the Sith you whelp?”  Saevita asked, her amulet glowing slightly as she levitated off the ground, her robe flowing around her.  “I’ll show you the power you wish to see!” she wailed, a slight echo in her voice, and her eyes now mirrored her amulet, glowing with an eerie green light.

The next thing Luke knew he was hurtling through the air.  The cracking of wood and the pain erupting in his back let Luke know that he’d been thrown clean through the adjoining door and into his room.  He landed hard on the cold marble floor.  After a moment he coughed out a breath.  “Oww” he thought to himself.  Suddenly this plan wasn’t feeling so good anymore.  He padded himself down, and realized that aside from a slight headache and what would become a big black and blue he seemed to be alright.    

Koto watched as Luke got to his feet slowly.  Saevita floated to the broken doorway.  His pommel at his side, Koto stood by his master, waiting for her to kill this man who seemed so familiar to him.  Luke stood and faced Saevita, showing only a slight fear, but he was doing something else.  The force was being manipulated around him.  Koto had never felt this before and wondered what Luke was up to.

Luke had his eyes closed, his hand outstretched, lightsaber in the forward position.  He was waiting for Adena to throw something at him, waiting and hoping that he could duplicate what he’d done instinctively before.  

“Look Koto, he doesn’t even have the courage to look me in the eyes before I kill him.  Pity…” Saevita said.

“Be careful my mistress, I sense he is planning something” Koto replied.

“Is he now?  Well my apprentice, let’s see how his plans fare against THIS!” With that the glow from the amulet grew brighter.  The power from the amulet filled the tattoos along her body and from Saevita’s arms came a force wave stronger then he’d ever seen her perform.  Luke waited for the force energy, his eyes opening right before impact.  “NOO!” he screamed, and the force wave impacted a force shield around Luke.  The Sith mistress who once was Adena Torro laughed and said “Your pitiful attempts to save your self amuse me, but I; *throws wave*; WILL; *throws wave*; BREAK *throws wave* YOU.” Luke grunted as wave after wave broke upon his force shield, he had put it up in panic, not knowing if he absorbs that much power.  The waves intensified, Saevita drawing upon the amulet’s dormant dark power to give her the ability to strike Luke down.  Luke knew that one more wave would break his shield.  It was now or never.  Luke knelt down and crossed his arms, opening himself to the force, and lowered the shield.  Wave after wave broke against Luke’s body, his clothes ripping, shoes cracking, pushed back inch by inch as he took each hit.  This infuriated Saevita more, and she glowed brighter as she drew upon her reserves to crush her hated rival.  Looking at Luke through the force, Koto saw the bright instances of the force waves flowing from Saevita and breaking against Luke.  Instead of his presence in the force diminishing, his bones breaking as they should have been, it seemed to be growing, getting stronger with every volley Saevita threw at Luke.  He was reluctant to tell his master what to do, but he felt it was in her best interest for him to intervene.  So he stepped in front of her and said “Please stop mistress, he is using you.”

Saevita immediately fixed her eyes to Koto and began to strangle him through the force.  “HOW DARE YOU INTERFERE!” Saevita howled, the power of the amulet coursing through her.  Koto was grasping his neck in futility, and then pointed towards Luke.  Luke was still kneeling, his shirt was gone, revealing his star shaped scar on his chest, his pants had been reduced to shorts, and his shoes had been split.  His skin, however, was pink and looked completely unharmed.  His eyes were more focused, and he grinned slightly.

“Thanks Adena, I needed that.” Luke said with false confidence as he stood up.  He had done it, and survived.  He felt great, more so then if he’d had 8 hours sleep and big breakfast.  Saevita released Koto from her hold.  The glow of the amulet faded as she drifted to the ground, and for the first time, Luke saw a hint of tiredness to her eyes as she looked at him almost in shock.  “Koto, finish your assignment” she whispered.  Without hesitation, Koto ran towards Luke, blade ignited.  Switching to a reverse grip, Luke ignited his sith saber, and caught Koto’s two-handed strike on the downswing.  “Nice trick, never seen that before” Koto said to Luke.  “You’ll find I’m full of surprises,” Luke grunted, as he reached around and took his grandfather’s lightsaber from it’s pounch on the back of his belt.  Again with a reverse grip, he ignited the blue blade and punched at Koto’s mid-section, the blade arching along the path perpendicular to Luke’s forearm.  Koto managed to force jump over Luke, avoiding the slice and landing behind him.  Luke spun around and, still using the reverse grips, blocked Koto’s incoming strike using the blades as second forearms.  Koto tried to get back into the rhythm of his overhead smashes, but Luke, revitalized by absorbing Saevita’s force waves, intercepted them easily by using both his lightsabers to catch Koto’s blade and lash out back at him at odd angles that Koto wasn’t use to.  He began to back away, but Luke jumped at him.  Flipping forward, Luke swung both his lightsabers as Koto’s head, which Koto barely managed to block.  Landing behind his opponent, Luke switched to a traditional grip on both sabers, and starting the twirling Jar’Kai style.  The switch in styles threw Koto off again, and he frantically tried to block the blades coming in at him, as Luke twirl and spun around him, attacking him from what seems like every angle.  

Talina had been a hand maiden for the royal family for over 14 years.  She had seen Kings and Queens come and go, bore witness to wars, treaties, and celebrations.  Over the past week however, she had seen some of the strangest events of her career, and she was beginning to worry.  Ever since the Jedi had arrived to assist Naboo, things have begun to go from bad to worse.  Part of her was glad the Jedi were here, but she couldn’t help wonder if they had come in the nick of time, or brought it all with them.  She shook her head to try and shake the nasty thoughts from her mind.  These were not proper thoughts for a handmaiden of Naboo to think.  She was just unnerved by the news she was sent to present to the Jedi Adena Torro.  Apparently there had been a Sith terrorist attack on a small province to the north.  A young girl was dead, and the top business man appears to have been driven to madness.  She steeled herself as she turned the corner to the Jedi’s room.  And there, outside the door, stood the strangest sight she’d ever seen.  A small green creature, no more then 2 feet tall, stood outside the Jedi’s door, holding his hand up.  Noticing her, he merely raised an eyebrow and calmly said.

“See me, you do not”

“See you I do not” Talina repeated

“Forget me, you will”

“Forget you, I will”

Taking his leave, Soma walked away down the hall, and left the handmaiden to follow his instructions.  A moment later, Talina shook her head and looked around.  “Oh my, I must’ve have nodded off there for a second.  Best hurry, I mustn’t keep the Master Adena waiting”, and with a knock she entered the room.  Inside she found the room in shambles.  The top of the canopy bed was draped down over the bottom left corner, as one of the posts had been cut off; there were slash marks and a few holes in the far wall by the balcony; the doors to the adjoining room were shattered, and two men were fighting with lightsabers in the padawan’s room.  Adena was watching the duel in the doorway.

“M’lady, are you alright?”

Seavita covered up and cinched her robe.  Smiling at the handmaiden she replied “Yes my dear, I’m fine.”  Gesturing to Luke and Koto in the other room, “Just a Padawan training challenge, nothing more” she explained.  She sensed confusion from the other woman, and influenced her words through the force, “You see, when a Jedi master has more then one Padawan, they must duel to deem which one is the senior member.”  Adena lied, but the Handmaiden nodded in acceptance.  Behind Adena, the bed slid across the room carrying a sheet clothed Koto on it, a mostly naked Luke jumping after it.

Refocusing her attention back on Adena, she said “Of course m’lady, forgive my intrusion, but an urgent message has come in from the northern province of Sterling and the king requires your counsel.” The handmaiden bowed and exited.

Koto and Luke’s battle was still going on in the other room.  Koto was blocking Luke’s strikes in front and behind.  Reversing his grip yet again, Luke came from the right with a double bladed swing.  Koto blocked the strike, grinning slightly as he did, but saw Luke grinning wider.  A switch on the side of Luke’s blue lightsaber slid back, and the blue blade was extinguished, and on the reverse side a green blade erupted forth, stopping an inch from Koto’s chin.

“Told you I’m full of surprises” Luke stated triumphantly.  “Do you yield?” he asked.

Koto tried to find some way out of the predicament, but knew he was beaten.  With Luke’s red blade held only by his own, Koto saw no other way not to lose his head then to say “Yes, I do”.  He de-ignited his saber and tossed it away.

Luke stepped back, and turned off his sabers and put them back in there holsters.  He looked himself over, and grimaced.  “Luckily all my clothes are here” he thought, but then sensed something from Koto.  He looked up just in time to be tackled by the overzealous pupil.

“I’ll kill you with my bare hands!” Koto shouted.

Back in the other room, the handmaiden was just leaving when she heard Koto’s exclamation.  She raised an eyebrow of concern towards the Jedi master.

“Nothing unusual happened here, you delivered the message and left” Saevita said with a swipe of her hand.

“Nothing unusual happened here, I delivered the message and left”

“Very good dear, thank you for the message, good day” Adena said overly sweetly.  She closed the bedroom door, and her smile turned to a scowl.  Marching towards the other room she entered to see Luke and Koto wrestling on the floor, Koto’s hand’s were around Luke’s throat, and Luke was trying to push the hands away.  She watched this spectacle for a minute or so, but then she noticed something.  Luke’s hands were glowing.  “What is he doing?” she asked herself.  Luke tried to say something, but could only manage a whisper of “No, let go” before his Koto and stiffened, and suddenly Luke saw images from Koto’s mind.

*flash*A colored woman with a tattoo over her eye, *flash*a young boy that looked surprisingly like Koto, *Flash* a wookie, his thick black fur blowing in the wind and letting out a yell of triumph, a blue flickering image of a hologram of Lord Sythis.*flash*Luke standing on the Freedom’s Edge yelling out “Of course of course, for I can see that I am no match for this mighty party of Jedi you have impressively assembled. Please allow me to formally surrender, and give you a proper Edge welcome.”

The two men were thrown apart by Saevita’s force push, and lay across the room from one another both breathing heavily.  Luke rolled away and got to his knees first, and said.  “You were on Yavin.”

Koto sat up and merely held his head, the images still swirling and settling into his memories.  “How did you do that?”

“I don’t know” Luke said honestly

Saevita had sensed the entire event through the force.  “Where had Luke learned such a skill.  He is growing stronger, I will have to speak with Lord Sythis when he arrives.” She thought to herself.  She started a slow clap, and the two men looked up at her.  “Quite a performance you two put on.”  She said.  “But the conclusion will have to wait till later, as you have suddenly become useful again.” She stated pointing at Luke.  “Don’t worry Koto, it’s temporary, I can assure you. *turning towards Luke, she held up the datapad* Now Luke, tell me what happened in Sterling.”

Luke explained as best he could the events of Sterling, minimizing the relationship with Ana to save himself some grief.  If Saevita had possessed eyes they would have grown as wide as dinner plates.  As Luke explained the conclusions that the police had drawn, Saevita just smiled and replied “Now, with their fear and paranoia at they’re peak, all we have to do is give a little…push” Saevita started to laugh as she dressed.  Koto slinked back to his master’s side, and Luke was left standing there, the full impact of what he’d started suddenly making itself as clear as day.

The next month seemed like a blur.  Within days of the Sterling incident, the King of Naboo decreed that Nabooans would no longer live in fear from outside aggressors.  As Saevita had promised contracts went out the next day to stop making products of peace, and start making instruments of war.  After the day’s duties, Saevita would have Luke and Koto duel to train their skills.  Luke won most fights, but Koto was learning, and nearly took off Luke’s arm one night.  After the duels, no matter the time or weariness, Luke would go back to his room and use a saber training droid.  Activating it, he would stand there and let the bolt’s hit him, trying to absorb their energy.  For the first week he got bolt burns all over his body, but by the fourth week, Luke could absorb almost all of them.  He didn’t know what this power was, but he was going to use it to undo what he’d done here on Naboo.  Each day Luke would look to the heavens for the Jedi that he had sent for, and every day he was disappointed.  Luke sensed that the Jedi were not coming, perhaps his message had been too cryptic.  Even if it had been possible to get a message through the jamming nets, Luke felt on edge these days.  As if someone was here, watching silently.  Koto had expressed similar feelings, and had sworn he’d heard a voice in the night, whispering things to him.

Standing on his balcony in the early morning, Luke watched the sunrise.  It had been only a month before that he’d sat on this very balcony, and wondered how he would manage his task.  Now, he no longer worried about being discovered, for he had secured his place within the Sith hierarchy, but at a terrible price.  As the light of a new day fell upon the royal courtyard, the reflection of metal glared back.  For there, lined up for inspection were the first weapons and soldiers of the Royal Army of Naboo.

Re: Naboo: The Hidden Threat

Niobe immediately tore off her over-robe upon entering her quarters. She used the force to push it across the room past her bed, on which she threw herself down.

Stupid. Stupid. Stupid. Stupid…

She’d been with the Sith for a matter of months, and so far she had done nothing but constantly remind her masters and peers that she was the youngest amongst them. Sure, she had proven herself in combat time and time again, carried out her orders when given, and remained focused on her training… but one outburst at a table with the Sith Lord himself. Niobe groaned and buried her face in her pillow.

Ugh. Niobe. What were you thinking?

Well, what now? The Sith ensemble was scheduled to arrive on Naboo shortly. Niobe wondered how Luke and Adena had been faring since she separated with them. No doubt they still had their ego’s intact, unlike herself. What did they have that she didn’t? What did Sythis see in them? Just because she was young didn’t mean she didn’t have anything to offer. She would show them what she was capable of once they settled on Naboo. Niobe gently massaged her neck where Sythis’ grip had held it. Her eruption at the meeting probably knocked her down a few notches, but more than anything else, she was sure Sivan was disappointed in her.  She was almost immediately dismissed after the gathering.

Calling her robe back to her and fastening her lightsabers to her belt, Niobe exited her quarters in search of her master. The halls of Inestra’s ship were impressive to say the least. Obviously the woman was wealthy, and that wealth had secured her all the power she wanted. Her guards lined the halls guarding certain doorways, bustling about. They were simple peons like herself. Overlooked in the eyes of Inestra and her crew of officers. She did not know their names, nor did she care. If one died, they would be replaced. But nobody cared.

As long as they served their purpose.

Niobe leaned against the wall across from Sivan’s quarters. She didn’t know if she was in there or not, but what was stopping her from going in? Sure, she was still a bit embarrassed. Who wouldn’t be? But she knew she struck a nerve with Sivan. Perhaps she took it as a failure of her own. It wasn’t her fault. Niobe knew that. Her finger raised to ring Sivan’s quarters when the doors suddenly opened. Sivan stood in full black training garb, her saber barely visible on her hip.

“Come with me. Now.” She ordered, pushing past Niobe. Niobe followed as closely as she could, but Sivan’s pace was fast… brisk. She turned at the first corner, and Niobe knew exactly where they were going: the training room.


The doors closed behind them, and Sivan immediately tossed her robe to the side. She hadn't said anything else during their walk, but Niobe wasn't surprised. Sivan meant business… and business was exactly what she would get. Niobe quickly followed suit and disrobed, meeting Sivan in the center circle. Again, without words, Sivan drew her saber and snapped it open. Niobe mirrored her, opening one of her blades.

"Use both sabers. You'll need them." She muttered quietly. Niobe obeyed and drew her second saber, igniting it along with the other. Sivan's stare was more piercing than usual. Niobe did not breathe, she did not speak, she did not blink or even think. Sivan held her attention firmly. Niobe's heart felt like it was about to jump into hyperspace. A bead of sweat trickled down her cheek, which she would have wiped had her hands not been holding her twin sabers.

Silence.

More Silence.

What was she doing? Her eyes were closed. Niobe never remembered her taking this long to prepare in the past.

"Master…?"

Instantly, Sivan spoke.

"6 minutes and 13 seconds." Sivan stated matter-of-factly. Niobe wasn't sure what to say. "Patience, apprentice, is something to treasure. Why did you speak?"

Niobe gulped. "You weren't saying anything. I was going to ask why."

"What do you think would have happened had you remained silent?"

Niobe took a few moments to think. "You'd have spoken?"

Sivan nodded slowly. "If you wait long enough, your opponent will always adapt. They will always act. It is in this moment that you have won." Niobe nodded her understanding. "You made a fool of yourself earlier."

Niobe's gaze dropped to the floor. "I know, Master. I apologize."

Sivan moved closer. "It is not unheard of for a young Sith to lose control. You have nothing to apologize for, and as I'm sure you're well aware of, your punishment has already come and passed. Sythis will have his eye on you." Niobe was silent. "That is all I will say on the matter."

"Now. Prepare yourself."

Re: Naboo: The Hidden Threat

Soma very much wanted to meet this woman he had premonitions of.  Just one month ago he had cloaked himself trying to approach her when her two learners had dueled but was nearly caught by a lowly handmaiden.  Feeling the timing was off and that not to be the best approach he had elected for a more subtle one and if that were to fail with time running low the direct approach was his last option.  For days he had touched the mind of both Koto and Luke searching for a way in.  This woman was very cautious and skilled in the force she would not take to outsiders well especially one with the force as an ally as well.  

Luke and Koto dueled nearly every day over the past month both honing their skills not only with a lightsaber but with the force.  They were quick learners, he had tried to place whispers and suggestions into their mind, but cautious as well they began to resist his mind probes to the point now of totally blocking him out.

“mmmmmm, most impressive.  Looks like the direct approach I will have to take.”

There was rarely a time when Adena was alone, he would have to pick the perfect time, if things did not go smoothly security would arrive very quickly.  Though he was powerful in the force even he knew he could not take on an entire planet full of security personnel.  He began to notice over the past month he had spent in the capital she sporadically made it a point for alone time during the day for a very short period.  From what he could tell it always took place in a well secured room with no windows with probably only one way in.  It must have been a personal throne room of some sort with a very secure communications port.  Why she did this he could not be sure, perhaps to contact her master.  But even then she was not entirely alone she kept Luke and Koto close by especially during those times either in the room itself or just outside.  He came to the conclusion there would be no better time than that to make contact with her.  It would be no easy task by any means security in the capital building was extremely tight not to mention there were numerous security cams spread out through the entire building.

After days of waiting the time finally presented itself, Adena once again made her way to this room with Luke and Koto at her side.  As she entered she instructed Luke to stand guard outside, Koto followed her in, and the door sealed shut behind them.  Short on time Soma knew he must act know.  He made it to the building as quick as he could, the room he was after was at the top of a large winding staircase on the second level.  He knew he would have to be as sharp as he had ever been employing all his knowledge of the force to make it past security.  Simply striking them down was not an option as it surely would draw more attention.  As he approached the entry way to the building two sentry guards stood ready, just past them was another guard posted at a counter no doubt to ensure proper clearance, to the left of the counter was a long breezeway that split at the end going both left and right forming what looked like a giant T, just behind the guard and to the right was a door no doubt the security cam main hub.  On the wall above the counter was a security cam sweeping the entrance way.  As he approached the two guards he stretched out using a force cloak to affect the minds of all three individuals in the entryway.  To make it past the security cam he employed a quick force flash shorting the cam out momentarily.  From inside the main security hub each camera in succession for a few seconds buzzed with static then came back into focus.  

“That was weird there must have been some sort of static discharge.  Run an equipment check and make sure everything is still working.”

As protocol required the security personnel executed a full equipment check and found everything to be operating as it should.

He made a dash down the hallway past two more cameras using force flash as he neared each one.  Reaching the T he quickly assessed his position, he appeared to be past the first wave of cameras.  Both ways seemed to lead to a stairway but based on his recent observations and relying on the force he chose left as the right direction.  He pushed outward with the force to see around the corners both left and right; he felt a one person patrol coming towards him from the right.  He waved his hand outward; simultaneously the guard heard a noise behind him as he turned Soma dashed down the hallway to the left and up the stairs.  As he reached the top he was met by door requiring a security clearance for entry.  It seemed to be a simple door, so he pushed out with the force attempting to push the door open but it did not move.  A more in depth examination of the door revealed it was magnetically sealed from the outside to deter any kind of attempt to breach the door using blasters.  He touched outward with his fingers sending a low shock of force lightning into the control panel to short out the seal.  As the door shorted out he expected it to slide open but it did not.  He was a little surprised by it but at this point it was able to be manipulated by the force, he stretched out with both hands forcing the door to rise, it was extremely heavy he could only manange to get the door three quarters of the way open before leaping using the force to propel himself through the opening before it slammed back shut.  As he stood he was surprised to not see any more guards or cameras, it contained nothing more than a long hallway with tall statues lining both sides with what looked to be past dignitaries both Naboo and Gungan alike.  At the very end of the hallway were two more very tall doors and Luke standing watch.

Luke saw the blast door rise at the end of the hallway and then a small figure dive threw pick himself up and approach him.  Alarmed he readied himself for anything reaching out with the force to not only calm him but get a feel of the palace security just below them.  His master would be very unhappy with this intrusion.  As he reached out he was somewhat confused, no alarms had been tripped and he sensed no panic or confusion below.  Everything seemed business as usual.  This was a restricted area and security was under strict orders to admit nobody to this level.  

Confidently Luke called out “I don’t know who you are little one but if you value your life I’d turn and leave this place immediately.”

Luke was surprised by this defiance the creature kept coming and said nothing.  Standing firm he moved himself to intercept his path which forced a response from him.

“Step aside young one.  Your master I wish to see.”

Luke unclipped his lightsaber readying himself.  

“Listen, you don’t seem to understand what you’re in for here, turn around….and walk away.”

“You cannot stop me, step aside, ask you again I will not.”

With a snap hiss Luke activated his lightsaber holding it in front of his body.  “I’m sorry but that is something I cannot do.”

Luke reached out with a quick slash, it was a surprising move, he had not expected such a courageous deed.  Soma was still able to block Luke's attack with his own energy blade.  He thrust his blade at Luke's chest but Luke blocked the attack and countered with another one.  Soma flipped as he blocked the incoming attack.  He knew he must dispatch his opponent quickly before security was alerted to the commotion outside the doors.  Soma pressed his attack viciously, blocking and thrusting, his radiant blade spinning a web of light about him.  Luke had indeed improved his own skills with a lightsaber judging by the way he parried and counterattacked.  Within the first few minutes Soma knew he was the superior fighter.  He could tell that Luke knew it too.  Still Luke fought on committed to standing his ground.  It was clear as day, Soma could see the grim realization in Luke's eyes, that he could not defeat his adversary.  Once defeat had been realized in the mind, it was inevitable in reality.  He pressed his attack to an even higher intensity than before driving Luke back towards the door.  Constricting his movement the time was now to put this battle to an end.  Reaching out with the force Soma shoved a massive force push catching Luke completely by surprise and slamming him through door, the impact knocked him unconscious.  Adena and Koto spun to face the door startled by the sudden breach both with lightsabers in hand and activated.  They were expecting to see an army of soldiers walk through and were taken off guard when a short green figured strolled through the door.  Adena deactivated her lightsaber and addressed him.

"How dare you, and very foolish.  Do you know who I am?"

"Seen you I have, wished to speak with you I do, my apologies for the door."

She laughed, "You're sorry, well I assure you of one thing you will be more than sorry.   Koto!" She snapped.  "Take care of this thing!"

"As you wish."

Koto leapt gracefully flipping in the air to meet his opponent taking a slash to remove his head as he landed but found nothing but emptiness.  Soma himself flipped away landing with his lightsaber in hand its blade still glowing a deep ruby red.  

"Foolish, I do not wish to hurt you, back down."

Koto just grinned and pressed forward thrusting and slashing but could not find a way through.  Soma moved with blazing speed blocking and dodging each of his attacks.  Koto was surprised by the fact his opponent was not attacking back.  He seemed content to merely defend.  He pushed even harder trying to break through his defenses but could not.  A sinking feeling began to fall over Koto, was his opponent just toying with him?  Each of his attacks were quickly defended and a couple times he had left himself wide open but to his amazement still found the mysterious creature did not attack.  Adena sensing the same thing could feel the sinking feeling within her apprentice.

"Enough!"

She stepped down from the platform her throne sat on, Koto backed towards her lightsaber in the ready position, as they passed she positioned herself in front of him.

"I will deal with him myself."  

Soma smiled then deactivated his lightsaber and clipped it back to his belt.  

Adena was taken aback a little by how bold this creature was.

"It is very unwise for you to lower your defenses."

Pointing his finger at her he said "Defenseless do I appear mmmm?  You still have much to learn."

"We shall see."  Drawing inward on the force there could be seen a sharp kinetic ripple as the force gathered around her and then she sent a powerful force wave back out towards Soma.  But as it struck Soma's outsretched hands the ripple faded as it seemed to absorb into his body, both his arms trembled as he absorbed it grunting as he spoke.

"For five hundred years have I studied the force, more powerful I am than you."

Koto stood there in amazement at what he just witnessed how could somebody do that.  Granted Luke had just done something similar but the force that night had nearly stripped him of all his belongings.  But the being appeared to absorb it, use it to his advantage.  At this point he had to ask himself would they survive this.

Appearing to be unfazed Adena gathered the force once again and sent shattered debris from the door at him but found him repulse the incoming objects in all directions away from him.  Everything she was throwing at him could not penetrate him.  But yet he still did not attack back he couldn't help but wonder why.  Frustrated Adena gathered herself and spoke.

"Well, so you do appear powerful.  You obviously are not a Jedi what is it that you want then?"

"A Jedi I most certainly am not.  I wish only to speak with your master.  There is much to be gained from one another, questions I have for him, see this he will."

Adena thought on it for a moment, there appeared only one way out of this confrontation so she agreed.

"Very well, take this comlink and leave this place.  I will contact you when the time is right.  If you return before that I will have you arrested, I'll send for my entire compliment of security if I have to.  Now I will notify palace security and they will escort you out……"

"Soma, my name is Soma."

"Right, they will escort you out Soma but I must warn you if you have lied to me, my master will destroy you."

"Indeed most certainly he would.  And thank you."

Adena commed for a security detail and as always they were quick to arrive.

"Escort Master Soma out of the building.  Put him up in a room of his choosing and have this door replaced at once."

"Yes my lady."

As Soma was escorted out Adena looked down at Luke and stretched out with the force to see if he was dead, he was beginning to awaken and was groaning his head was aching.  Adena looked over towards Koto.

"What a shame he survived."

Koto was still somewhat surprised.  

"What do we do now my master?  Can he be trusted?"

"I don't know I will contact my master he will know what to do.  That comlink has a tracking device so we can keep an eye on our new friend.  In the meantime I want all outgoing transmissions screened if he is up to something we will find out."

Re: Naboo: The Hidden Threat

Inestra knew what the others must be thinking. They thought she was wealthy, and that she was, but it was blood money. Not that she had a problem with that, but it always…annoyed her that others were shocked by the wealth. She shrugged.

She had put money, and lots of it, into designing ships. Bizarre hybrids of pre-existing models. Uglies, they may be called. Even this ship, the Black Moon, wasn’t as simple a ship as it appeared from the exterior. The interior had been designed to act like a cathedral. There was an odd thrill in the idea of the design, of a tainting of the purity of a holy place.

She stood, gazing down at the officers of the bridge. They worked, for the most part, silently. They knew she was watching.

They had rendezvoused with the rest of the fleet approximately three days prior. Inestra had gazed at the fleet at that point and had had an epiphany. Her fleet was depleting, not growing. They may pretend to be more, but at heart they were a pirate fleet, and little more. But there was potential for growth. Oh, the potential. Inestra saw in her inner eye a fleet laid before her, ten times the size of the current fleet, gleaming in the twisted light of space. It was an amazing dream, her fleet conquering worlds, rather than simply stealing from them. Entire worlds as gifts to her master.

She breathed deeply. And the inhabitants of those worlds would gaze at her and cry for her leadership. They were lost sheep, and she would be their shepherd. Wonderful…

But it was still only a dream. Still, she could take steps.

She felt a presence at her side, also gazing at her officers. She knew the presence. She turned and kneeled.

“Master…”

He raised a hand and she stood.

“Something troubles you, Hydran,” he said.

“Indeed, my lord,” she said. He didn’t look at her but looked at her troops. “My lord, the loss of my ships…it has brought me a realization.”

“Hmm?” He said.

“My fleet is limited. When we reach Naboo, I am unsure if we could defend it properly. We have no way to make fighters. Every one we lose is a major loss, let alone entire frigates or capital ships. Repairing ships alone is a mighty endeavor.”

“Don’t dance around the issue, Hydran.” He spoke softly. “What is it you are asking?”

“I ask, my lord,” she swallowed her pride, “that I be allowed to convert some resources on Naboo into production facilities for fighters and capital ships, and my current ships repaired.”

He turned to her. “The repair of your ships was a given, my apprentice.”

She bowed her head.

“Although,” he continued, “you have brought up an interesting issue. We would have trouble-defending Naboo with your current fleet. We were lucky on Vjun, for we knew that their fleet was small. But if the Republic were to discover our machinations on Naboo, they would send a far larger fleet, of that I am sure. And your fleet would be crushed like a bug.”

Inestra felt anger rise. Her fleet being underestimated like this hurt her, but she was the one who had opened the flood gates.

“Indeed, a very interesting problem.” He turned back to her officers. “I will give the matter thought. Is it more viable to defend the ground alone, and defeat them there, or slim their numbers before their men can ever touch the ground. That would, of course mean less ground troops for us…” His voice tapered off and he sat in silence.

Eventually, Inestra spoke up. “My lord?”

“Yes,” he said slowly and quietly.

“I thank you for giving the matter thought,” she said, “but we’ll be reaching Naboo soon, and I have business to attend to.”

“Of course,” he nodded, “you may go.”


Inestra tapped a stylus across her lip rhythmically. She enjoyed these times between encounters, some of the few times she could get out of armor. The time she felt closest to her alternate identity, Ylles Hindheart. Even the paperwork could be enjoyable if you were wearing something that wasn’t heavy, sweaty and, to her mind, unattractive. Rather, she wore a dark red blouse and dark pants. Her trident was close at hand, though, and a blaster sat next to the flimsies on the desk. One of her troops had turned on her several months earlier, and she was no longer taking chances.

She found it funny, the way that Sythis had ordered her off her own bridge. On the one hand, it was understandable. He was Lord, she was apprentice. On the other, it made her angry. She had assembled this fleet; this ship had been at her command since Endor, frakking Endor. It was hers, not his, who had only been on it for days.

She quickly signed her name at the base of a flimsi. Darth Hydran on one side, Inestra Shee on the other. She stood and stacked the thin sheets. She stretched and made her way to the trident, which she picked up and whirled as she walked out of her office into her chambers. She almost felt like whistling, but withheld it. She pressed a button on her bedside table and a hologram of her XO popped up.

“Ma’am,” he saluted.

“ETA.” She said simply.

“ETA set at seven hours, my lady.” He responded.

“Very good. That will be all.” She shut down communications and lay down on her bed. She would sleep for an hour, maybe two and be on the bridge for final preparations.


“ETA ten minutes, ma’am.” The navigations officer piped up. He had been updating her every five minutes since ETA 30 minutes, every ten minutes before that. He would now start ticking off at every minute.

She stood at the head of the bridge in full uniform, rather than armor. Even this was tailored in red rather than the black or gray more common to the old Empire. The insignia on her breast was wrapped in snakes.

“Prepare for final entrance,” she spoke, although they already were.

“Yes ma’am,” was raised from every officer on bridge.

Sythis, standing next to her, turned and whispered into her ear. “Your troops are loyal?”

“To death.” She replied.

“They will not raise…problems…if we were to…route civilians?” He asked, the emphasis clear. If they had to shoot down civilian ships.

“No.” She said. “It was what we were doing before joining you. I assume we will be doing it far into the future.” Her emphasis was more muted. They would keep doing it until after he died, naturally or at the hands of one of his apprentices.

“Very good.” He said, and remained silent after.

“ETA five minutes.” The navigation officer said.

“We’re almost there, men,” she said, “on this day you take your first steps to establishing a glorious new Empire, forged from things far tougher than the old. On this day, you begin to forge an Empire of the Sith. On this day, you become history.”

A cheer arose.

“Also on this day, we become not the pirates you knew, or the Imperials before,” a Zabrak coughed at this. Inestra continued. “you become the Fleet of Naboo. Her first line of defense.” She cast a side-long glance at Sythis. He remained impassive. “You will be more powerful than ever before. Make me proud, and you make proud the Sith, Let me down, and you let down the Sith. And the Sith are not to be let down.”

There was silence, then, “ETA 30 seconds, 29, 28, 27, 26…”

He hummed down the countdown, surrounded by a cloak of dead quiet. Like talking in a tomb. “Three, two, one…”

They fell out of hyperspace, Naboo before them.

Re: Naboo: The Hidden Threat

Darth Sythis walked to the star field displayed on the holoprojector with a measured step and a narrowing of his piercing eyes. Though he assumed many of the bridge officers were watching him, and though he was not sure gods or the Maker even existed, he comported himself as one. Always aware, always projecting a larger-than-life image of himself, he dared not let down his guard.

He studied the various worlds in the Chommell Sector. As he reached out with long, slender fingers to touch the sectorial capital of Naboo, a window full of information would open. He would recreate this world, and though the Sith had been spread throughout the stars for more than a millennia, many of the worlds were barely tamed. The Sith had blunted their essence in a few places, and yet those victories could easily be reversed, no thanks to the Jedi and their New Republic. Still, the tenuous nature of the Sith's dominion over the galaxy could not be denied.

Inestra Shee, known as Darth Hydran, stood by him a small distance away aboard her command bridge with her arms folded over her chest. Four different monitors were centered on the same image: a largely unspoilt world with large plains, forests, and oceans. A world mostly known as the homeworld of notable historical figures who played major roles in the downfall of the Old Republic and the rise of the Galactic Empire, namely Padmé Amidala, Supreme Chancellor Palpatine and Jar Jar Binks.

Hydran shook her head. "I fail to understand why we are not sending down my armies. You are aware it won't be easy to sway the entire planet under our rule."

The Dark Lord of the Sith said nothing, but raised an eyebrow in her direction.

She added quickly. "Aside from the fact Darth Saevita already controls most of the planet with King Tymen as her puppet."

"And still you doubt the Sith, lovely Inestra?"

"No, My Lord. But we were just defeated on Vjun. We took major losses. I lost a ship. My fleet is still not fully repaired from the battle." Inestra shook her head. "If the New Republic hears where we have retreated, we may only hold out for two days, but that is hopeful."

He smiled at her wickedly. "Your conclusion, then, is that there is nothing to gain by us hiding?"

Inestra pointed at the screens. "Even if the Naboo did support us and had the backing of their armies, it is only one planet. It would take years to build up enough of a fleet to begin taking back worlds. By that time, we will be exposed."

The Dark Lord half smiled. "Our exposure is a risk, no doubt about it. But by that time happens, it will be too late. My plan already is coming to fruitation as we speak."

"Oh?" Inestra raised her chin. "Were you going to consider sharing this plan with me or my men?"

"Of course. In fact, contact Theed Palace. Tell them I wish to speak with King Tymen."

Inestra looked over her shoulder and nodded to one of the comm officers. "You have your orders. Get that holoprojector online!"

In mere moments, the projector came to life and a blue image appeared at the center of it: a haggard man sitting upon a massive throne. This was King Tymen. Or now a shell of him. The dark circles under his eyes gave him a haunted look. His hunched shoulders and the way his head jerked toward any sound reduced him to a frail and tired old man. He looked up to them sluggishly, then blinked slowly.

"What is your business here? Can't you see I am busy?" his frail voice whispered harshly.

Lord Sythis smiled. "King Tymen, it has been some time since our last encounter. I assure you do remember me?"

He relished the look of surprise on the face of Tymen's hologram when he finally recognized him. The hologram glanced down at Sythis's lightsaber clasped to his belt, but he'd slipped his robe over it to deny Tymen a simple way to understand what he was. He smiled easily as the hologram's eyes came back up.

"It is good to see you looking well, King Tymen. Has the Jedi Adena Tadrro been assisting you with your affairs?"

"She has, Duke Sythis of Serrenno." He glanced at Darth Saevita who now stood next to him, unexpectedly. "She has helped with building Naboo's defenses and has boosted our economy by having the corperations build droid armies in their foundries. She insisted the Trade Federation or the remnants of the Galactic Empire would attempt another invasion like last time."

Darth Sythis nodded as the holocam shifted to show Saevita next to his throne. "Excellent. The Jedi's counsel is most wise. Ever since the last invasion by Nomm Gunray, I have always insisted that Naboo should increase their defenses. Thanks to me dispatching the Jedi Adena to you, that goal is now achieved." He smirked. "Now, my King, if I can have a word with Adena? There is much to discuss."

"As you wish." The haggard man slowly pulled himself from his seat and exited from the holocam's range.

Saevita now took the throne and smiled openly. "Naboo is yours to do as you wish, my Master. All of her armies are yours to command. As well, I have made quite a few… friends… while you were gone."

"I see, Mistress Saevita." Sythis hesitated, then held up a hand. "My apprentice, I will be heading down to the surface to meet you and the King, if you do not mind. An hour or so?"

Saevita glanced at someone in the distance away from the holocam's range. "Of course, my Master. And I will say there is someone here to see you. He is most insistant."

Sythis frowned. "Well, I do hope this friend of yours will be worth our efforts. I will be arriving shortly with my entourage." He pointed a finger to a console and the projection of Saevita faded.

Darth Hydran shook her head. "I insist I accompany you with my honor guard."

The Dark Lord glared at her for a moment, then accepted her offer with a nod. "But I also insist the rest of the Sith Order accompany me as well. Summon Themyscira, Jaden, Sivan, and her apprentice, Niobe."

"As you wish."

An hour later, the shuttle touched down upon the landing platform of Theed Palace. The engines went silent. Wordlessly, the Dark Lord stood, now sensing the presence of another… darksider.

Re: Naboo: The Hidden Threat

Finally the wait was over.  Soma's patience in the force had paid off once again.  Thunder crackled in the distant sky, a storm was brewing that seemed to arrive as soon as Darth Sythis' shuttle broke orbit.  The shuttle settled down with effortless grace.  As he stood next to Adena he could feel her shift a bit as the shuttles boarding ramp unfolded and touched the ground.  Her master strode down the ramp in complete command of himself.  Adena was waiting for him on bended knee as he reached the bottom of the ramp.

"Rise, you've done well my apprentice. Alas the Sith will rule the galaxy and the Jedi will be no more."

"Yes, my master."

Darth Sythis could feel Soma's presence, he could feel the darkside radiating from him just as Soma could feel it off him.  There was something familiar about him but at face value he couldn't put his finger on it.

"And this, this must be our insistent friend?"

"Yes, my master, he made short work of Koto and Luke to get to this meeting.  We completed a thorough search and he was armed only with his lightsaber.  We have taken extra precautions to ensure he is defenseless."

Adena handed his saber over to her master.  He looked at it in detail examining it from one end to the other.  The hilt felt tiny in his hands, he smiled reflecting on what his apprentice had just told him, suggesting that without his lightsaber he was defenseless, perhaps even suggesting that their strength lied with their ability to wield a lightsaber.  He moved passed his apprentice arriving directly in front of Soma.  His entourage of Themyscira, Jaden, Sivan, and, Niobe stood just behind him shoulder to shoulder with Adena, Koto and Luke fell in as well.  Sythis looked down at him and spoke with a raspy voice.

"Well my friend, you asked for this and now you have it.  What is it that you want?"

"Much the same as you.  To eradicate the Jedi once and for all from the galaxy."

"Is that so?"

They locked eyes intensely for a moment, a move from Sythis intent on intimidating Soma.  But Sythis could see the fire burning right back at him and in that instant he did not have to call on the force to see that Soma was dead serious.  He looked back over his shoulder rasped out deeply to his loyal followers.

"Leave us."

As he looked back Soma gave him a nod of respect.  Both of them paused to allow everybody to clear the landing platform.  

"Now, continue."

Sythis motioned for Soma to accompany him back onto his shuttle.  At this point he did not trust the local palaces for absolute privacy and elected to discuss this type of business where he knew prying eyes would not be looking.

"Abandoned the rule of two, I see you have.  Very dangerous that is.  Very dangerous."

"You'll soon see my friend where their loyalty lies.  And on the topic of loyalty why should I trust you?"

"Told you did I, what I want is almost the same as you.  Almost the same.  Seek only to destroy the Jedi do I, not to rule the galaxy."

"And what makes you think I need your help to accomplish this task?"

Soma grinned, it was a game being played here and he knew it.

"Talented force users you have, in time they may prove enough to accomplish that it is what you seek to accomplish.  But not yet.  Help you to teach them I can."

Sythis leaned forward knowing just as well the game at hand.  

"And you think they are beyond my reach, that I am unable to accomplish the task ahead?"

He got the sense the Dark Lord knew there was more to this than just offering to help teach his followers a deeper understanding of the force.

"Smart you are.  Researched the battle of Vjun, lost many forces did you mmmm?"

Sythis sat back and folded his arms.  He was intrigued now.

"Continue."

"The Jedi stripped me of many things for hundreds of years, following my expulsion from the Jedi Order I came to the rescue of the Chancellor.  Aided Palpatine did I, and continued to serve him under the Empire.  Just as the Emperor did, saw through the hypocrisy of the Jedi did I.  We shared a common interest to destroy them.  Nearly succeeded we did, but Palpatine made a critical error, he underestimated the resiliency of the Jedi and wrote them off before complete success had been reached."

At that moment it suddenly hit Sythis where he knew him from.  

"You were an Inquisitor weren't you?"

Soma smiled.  The Dark Lord had known of him but couldn't place him.  That's why he wasn't quick to tip his hand.

"Led forces for the Emperor to push the Jedi to extinction did I.  Many Inquisitors served under me.  But that is the past.  More importantly it is that knowledge which I was privy to following the end of the Clone Wars."

"What exactly does this have to do with my vision of the galaxy?"  

"Ah indeed a good question.  As I said before, suffered many losses at Vjun did you.  To withstand an attack from the Republic you can not.  Following the end of the Clone Wars a mad scramble there was for Separatist equipment.  Many fell into the hands of the worlds they sought to control.  Knew this the Emperor did.  In order to secure peace gathered them up he did, along with hundreds of Capital ships.  Stored them as reserves against the Rebellion if ever needed did he."

This could be just the tipping point Sythis would need to secure his plans of ruling the galaxy.  Somewhat eagerly he said.

"And..you..know..the location of these ships?"

"That I do."

"Lead me to those ships and I will give you all that you need.  Welcome Soma, together we will rule the galaxy."

In a sign of trust, Sythis laid the confiscated lightsaber on the table.  And allowed him to retrieve it and return it to his hilt.  A new alliance was born and a powerful one at that.

Re: Naboo: The Hidden Threat

A day later…

The throne room was packed with King Tymen's royal subjects, guests, visitors, and the Sith themselves. Large glowrods illuminated from hanging lamps, casting flickering shadows on the rich tapestries adorning the walls. The large windows of Theed Palace displayed the setting sun. Colored tiles, bearing King Tymen's coat of arms, decorated the floor.

Presiding over the ceremony, King Tymen addressed the assembly from the raised dais in front of the large bay windows. The castle's royal subjects and guests were seated, according to their rank, on rows of seats divided down the middle by a long aisle. Royal servants stood at attention at the rear of the chamber, facing the dais. Darth Sythis, along with his disciples, stood quietly near Saevita, who sat next to the king.

"Friends, comrades, and faithful subjects of Naboo," the king orated in a rasped voice, resplendant in a dark surcoat trimmed with fur. A crest-shaped pendant, similar to that worn by Darth Saevita, hung from a golden chain around his neck. "We are met tonight in the wake of  a new era for the Naboo. Happily, this era will be ushered in by the guidance of the Jedi, Adena Tadrro, and her associate, namely the Duke of Serenno. In return for their service on Naboo's behalf, I hereby decree that tonight we celebrate, during which all Naboo will welcome our new allies who have arrived in orbit."

Raucous cheers arose from the gathered Naboo. King Tymen waited until the people's cheers had subsided before continuing his speech. "We are most especially indebted to one among our visitors, whose leadership and charm will be instrumental in our cause when I elect him to be our next representative in the Senate to replace our loss. Let the one known as Duke Malkav come forward to receive our gratitude."

Smiling to hear his name called, Darth Sythis walked toward the dais, feeling the acceptance and scrutiny of the Naboo's eyes upon him. He arrived before King Tymen and Darth Saevita– still disguised as the Jedi, Adena Tadrro. Only with effort did he refrain from staring at the Miraluka, who now stood mere feet away from him. Instead, he kept his gaze fixed respectfully on the king.

The king looked up at him from the dais. "Duke Malkav, sworn defender of Serenno and now of Naboo, you have been elected to represent us in the Senate. Therefore, in grateful appreciation of your service, I am pleased to present you with small token of our esteem."

He stepped forward and held out the token, which Sythis saw to be a burnished emblem that was carved into the semblance of a shield. "The Shield of Naboo," he explained.

"Many thanks, King Tymen," he said, reaching up to accept the emblem. "I am greatly honored."

"Indeed, you are," Adena Tadrro agreed readily. It was then both nodded to each other. <I>Yes… everything is going exactly as planned, my Master…</I>

"May I address the Naboo, my King?" Sythis asked.

"Of course, Duke." A hush fell over the assembly as King Tymen addressed all present. "And now the new Senator of Naboo has a few words to say."

Darth Sythis stepped forward. "Members of the royal family, faithful subjects," he began. "Beyond these venerable walls stands a threat to the Naboo. Many of you who have lived long know exactly who I am addressing. For generations, the Neimoidians and their Trade Federation continue in an endless and brutal cavalcade of conquest and usurpation, even after the fall of the Galactic Empire. It has only been just over a year since Nomm Gunray and his battle droids had set foot here and destroyed much of what was Naboo, including Theed Palace in which we have finally rebuilt once more."

He raised his hand upward. "Is the Naboo sick of this constant threat and warfare?!"

The audience, the king included, answered in unison: "Yes, we are!"

The Duke of Serenno nodded in acknowledgment. "We who have come here by invitation by King Tymen– Adena, Inestra Shee, Soma, and myself– have offered a final solution to this threat for good. As you have known already, Adena has aided your economy by aiding your king to establish foundries in the creation of a droid army that is more powerful than the battle droids the Neimodians have unleashed on you."

He then nodded to Inestra, then Soma. "To add, Inestra Shee has provided you with a powerful fleet in orbit which will be used for Naboo's defense and in time, an offense against your oppressors. Soma, in turn, has provided us with a secret that not even the Trade Federation, nor the New Republic knows: a lost fleet that has been hidden away from the time of the Clone Wars in which he will reveal to us and will be claimed by the Naboo."

"Is this what you want, Naboo?!" Sythis shouted. "Peace and security for good?!"

The ritual response echoed within the throne room in agreement.

"Then it shall be done," Sythis confirmed. "I have only to thank you for accepting me into this position. King Tymen indeed is most wise."

Applause again.

"Now is the appointed hour," Sythis proclaimed. "Soon, I will head to Coruscant to take my position as Senator, confident that the destiny of the Naboo will be safely guided by me, while my fellow associates will aide in securing Naboo." He nodded to the gathering of Sith that stood nearby. "Soma, Inestra, and my two aides, Sivan and Niobe, shall leave with part of her fleet to search for the lost ships we will need to protect Naboo."

Sythis nodded to Darth Saevita. "The Jedi, Adena Tadrro, will remain here to aide in helping King Tymen rule and continue the building of the droid armies." The Duke placed a hand on himself. "As for me, I shall be accompanied with my aides to Coruscant within a few days."

More applause.

"Let the celebrations begin!" Sythis decreed. He nodded to King Tymen and whispered. "You may proceed with the festivities, my King."

"Yes, Duke," he replied in his continual trancelike state…

Re: Naboo: The Hidden Threat

Kyle and Jacen strode into Ranzen's personal quarters side by side.  They had been summoned by the Jedi Master shortly upon their return from Rishi investigating a rash of pirate raids in the outer rim.  He himself had just returned from what some had believed to be a disastrous mission on Vjun.  The battle that was waged there along with the recent arrest of the members of Rogue Squadron had taken their toll on the Jedi Master.  Ranzen wasn’t concerned their mission to Rishi failed to turn up anything solid but overall in his opinion had gone well, he had mostly sent them there in hopes to establish a Jedi presence throughout the galaxy through diplomacy rather than confrontation.  So in his mind it was a success.  As they approached their master they stopped and offered a respectful bow.  Jacen was the first to speak.

"Master, you requested our presence?"

Ranzen stood and offered a respectful nod in return.  

"Yes Jacen, I'm sorry to have to do this to you again I wish I could have given you more rest time but unfortunately we have been stretched too thin as of late."

Jacen and Kyle smiled at one another.  They knew exactly where this was going.  Their missions had increased in the past year significantly.  Conflict was everywhere so it came to them with no surprise.  This time Kyle took it upon himself to respond.

"Just tell us when and where master."

Even though tired Ranzen managed a smile in response.

“I respect your dedication Kyle.  Well let me get right to the point then.  We received a partial message from Naboo requesting our immediate attention.  We have just received word of their newly appointed Senator and apparently there is a separatist faction claiming responsibility for several attacks against the government in response.  All attempts at communication have gone unanswered.  Given the political figures involved I feel it is something we need to look into.”

“What about Naboo security master?  There was nothing else the message could tell us?”

“Unfortunately no, it was severely scrambled and came from a private diplomatic channel, which also raises some eyebrows.  That is why I feel perhaps it is a matter beyond that of Naboo security.  It could be nothing but all things considered we had better look into it anyway.  I have a shuttle fueled and stocked.  Report back as soon as possible.”

“Yes master.”  Kyle and Jacen said in unison.  

All three bowed in respect signaling the meeting was over.  They wasted little time in their quarters, just enough time to gather some fresh cloths, a bite to eat, and a quick shower.  It was a lifestyle they had grown used to but they had remarked to each other time and time again, it’s funny what you get used to.  Kyle eased the Marketta-class shuttle off the landing platform as Jacen entered coordinates into the nav computer for their jump to lightspeed.  It was a diplomatic shuttle Ranzen encouraged his Jedi to use as often as they could.  In his mind it showed the Jedi as diplomats, not warriors.  Plus Kyle and Jacen didn’t mind the luxury as well, not to mention they had spent to much time out of the cockpit to enjoy piloting a fighter anyway.  

“You seem tense Kyle.  Is it because of her?”  

“Master it has been over a year and no contact with her and now we are finally on our way to Naboo, can you blame me?”  

“Calm down Kyle we do have a job to do.  After all you said it yourself she may not even be there not to mention you shouldn't be so quick to attach yourself to somebody.”

Kyle just glared at his former master and exhaled a sigh.  This was a battle that always frustrated him and he could never seem to win.  Jacen was born and trained in a different era of the Jedi Order many customs he still clung to, relationships and attachment being one of them.  


As the shuttle emerged from hyperspace and begun an approach towards Naboo they received an immediate hail from the planet.  It seemed rather urgent which caught Jacen and Kyle by surprise.  

“Marketta shuttle this is Naboo Control, state your business and intentions at once.”

They looked at each other puzzled.

“Not as friendly as I remember.”

“I agree Kyle, stay alert.”

Jacen keyed the comm system on.

“This is the diplomatic shuttle Probity, we are here on behalf of the New Jedi Order.  We request a landing clearance and wish to speak with his royal highness.”

“Stand bye while we verify.”

Adena had been notified as soon as the ship broke out of hyperspace.  She was puzzled by the arrival of the two Jedi.  How could they have found out about this so soon.  She could not simply kill them, where one Jedi turns up missing many more will follow.  Her first thought was of Soma, anger filled within her, she felt betrayed, like he had made a fool out of her.  But how was this possible from the moment of his emergence he had been under her close watch.  He had not sent any transmissions of any kind or even attempted for that matter.  As it stood she had no other choice but to allow them access to the planet but perhaps she could use the Jedi for her own use, all was not lost just yet.

"Give them a landing clearance, I will inform the King and meet with them myself."

"As you wish, malady.”

The shuttles comm crackled back to life.

“Shuttle Probity, you may proceed as requested and are granted landing on platform NL-33.  Master Tadrro will meet you there.”

“Thank you.”

As Kyle clicked the frequency off, he and Jacen looked even more puzzled at this point.

“Master?”

“I don’t know Kyle but something is going on here and we are going to get to the bottom of it.”

Adena stood patiently and watched as the shuttle touched down.  She pushed back the anger swelling inside her as not to give herself away to the Jedi.  As Jacen and Kyle approached they pulled back their hoods and bowed in respect.  Adena bowed in return.

"How may I be of service?"

Jacen put on his best diplomatic face.  

"My apologies for the short notice but we have come here on direct orders from the Jedi Order.  We received an urgent message requesting our presence.  I am Jedi Master Jacen Reitz and this is Master Kyle Lok.  If at all possible we would like to speak with the King."

"I am sorry but that is not possible, he has become very ill and has been on bed rest.  I have been authorized to speak on his behalf though.  Plus, as you can see the Jedi already have a presence here.  I'm sure it was just a mistake."

"Curious that Master Ranzen did not inform us of this."

"This assignment was not on record.  It was too sensitive.  I was sent to oversee a peaceful transition.  I'm sure you can imagine how it would look to outsiders, they'd no doubt think the Jedi were trying to take over."

"I see but I'm sure you'll understand, we must have a look around anyway, just to be sure."

Irritation began to emerge but she was able to suppress it.  Jedi were like an itch you just could not scratch.  

"Perhaps if you tell me why you are here maybe I could assist you."

"Of course, we are concerned for the newly appointed Senators life.  We have received word that a separatist group has launched attacks in response to his new appointment.  All communication attempts have gone answered.  In response we have been sent to quell the uprising and ensure the Senator is in no danger."

"I see, we have received several sporadic attacks but nothing too serious.  The Senator is being well looked after.  But if you must, perhaps you should start in New Centriff.  Intel suggests it could be a staging area.  We will provide you with transport at once."

"New Centriff, thank you.  We will get started immediately."

Re: Naboo: The Hidden Threat

Adena burst into the conference room where she found her master, Soma, and his other disciples. Soma had just finished laying out the last known location of the now dubbed "Lost Fleet". It seemed only fitting its location lay near Roon surrounded by what was known as the Cloak of the Sith. Rage swelled within her and the first sight of Soma caused her to unleash it.

"You! You brought them here!"

Her eyes flared with rage. Soma sat unfazed by her outburst. Since the two Jedi had arrived hours ago he could sense their presence through the force. He knew exactly who she was referring to but just like her though he was unsure how they had come to seek out Naboo and even though he knew he was not to blame he sat patiently waiting to hear her explain it. Her master stepped in though before she had time to make an attempt at it.

"This is highly uncalled for my apprentice. By them I’m sure you are referring to the two Jedi that arrived here a short time ago?"

This was the first opportunity she had to inform her master about the Jedi but she knew he was very powerful and was not surprised one bit he already knew of their arrival on the planet. All of the sudden his words slammed against her with sobering impact. She found herself standing there with all eyes fixed on her including her masters. She quickly knelt paying respect to her master.

"Forgive me my master”

 "Rise”

“Master all we have worked for now hangs on the edge of a disastrous fate. The Jedi are relentless pests and somebody has summoned them here.”

“And you suspect it was Master Soma?”

“It has to be.”

 Darth Sythis made his way towards Soma settling directly behind him. The dark lord knew matter of fact that it was not Soma. Since his first meeting with him in good faith Soma had let down all of his shields in the force. He had allowed Sythis to read him like an open book. At no time including now had he sensed any deceit or treachery. To the rest of the room however it appeared as though Lord Sythis was suspicious of him. He stood directly behind him to portray a watchful eye on him. Even though he knew it wasn’t him he was indeed convinced there was in fact a traitor among them. Instead of glaring down at the short creature his eyes were instead fixed across the room on Luke.

“That maybe so my apprentice. Then again you could be mistaken of the who, but one thing is for sure, somebody informed the Jedi…..of….something.”

Luke could feel the Sith Lord lock eyes with him has he hung on to every word. Sythis had become suspicious of him of late and he knew it. It made him feel quite uneasy and in an attempt to divert attention he offered a suggestion.

“Perhaps we should send Soma to destroy them my master. Prove to us his innocence.”

“Perhaps we should. But to destroy them we could have done long ago, that would only draw more attention. No we need to keep an eye on them instead. Sometimes the best way to hide is in plain sight. While we prepare for our journey for the lost fleet Soma will watch over the two Jedi. We must move quickly though.”

 He was actually compelled to seek out the two Jedi anyway.  There was something about one of them that he could not seem to shake.  He was intrigued by him, since his arrival he could feel the darkside aching to burst through him.  

“As you wish Lord Sythis but a word with you I need.”

“Of course my little green friend.”

The others stood in anticipation. Often Soma and Darth Sythis had requested complete privacy with each other and as expected Lord Sythis rasped out his order.

“Leave us.”

As the others departed from the room Sythis took his seat at the head of the table.

“You have a request Master Soma.”

This had become common among them. Each other knowing what the other had in mind even before communicating it to one another. But they both played the game, they had to.

“Mmm sensed their presence did I. Strong is the force with one of them. Anger and fear, begun to consume him it has.”

“I have sensed this as well. And I feel you wish to turn him?”

“A powerful ally he would make. Train him I can.”

“I agree and perhaps we can use these Jedi to wipe out our little separatist uprising we have created in the process. They have served their purpose, a purpose we no longer require.”

Darth Sythis had engineered the uprising to ensure he had overwhelming support from all of Naboo to move forward with the established presence of more war like machines and starships.  If the people were in constant fear of attack they would rally around a strong figure providing them safety, even if it meant a change of pace from the norm.  Since he was now elected Senator he could use the Jedi to serve his purpose and wipe out these dissidents.  Nobody would be the wiser that he was behind it all.  

“Very well, now go, I will.”

As Soma reached the door, the Dark Lord made himself very clear with one last demand.

“If he cannot be turned, kill them both and wipe out the resistance yourself.”
 
His nod of acceptance offered little doubt that his words were heard loud and clear.

Re: Naboo: The Hidden Threat

As the flash speeder sped into New Centrif Jacen and Kyle were on high alert for anything out of place.  Their Jedi senses had been tingling from the moment they landed planet-side and they were determined not to be caught in a trap.  New Centrif looked ragged and run down by Naboo standards.  The elegance, beauty, and tranquility that was the staple of so many other cities had escaped this one long ago.  New Centrif had housed a key transmitter nearly fifty years ago before the Clone Wars.  The city was nearly wiped out during the Invasion of Naboo and has limped on ever since.  The Mayor had received advanced notice of the two Jedi arriving and was awaiting them as they approached.  He was not two excited about two Jedi being in his city and was overly nervous.  Jacen and Kyle leapt from the speeder as it came to a stop and pulled the hood of their robes up.  The Mayor bowed as they approached.

"Welcome to New Centrif, Master Jedi, my name is Mayor Dare Jeseladai."

"Thank you, this is Kyle and I am Jacen.  With your permission we'd like to use your city as a base to track down a separatist faction we believe to be operating in this area."

Kyle felt the mayor tense up as Jacen laid out the reason for them being there so he pressed him.  

"You wouldn't perhaps know where to start?"

Jacen could sense the same thing Kyle had and sent him a subtle warning not to press to hard.  He didn't want the Mayor to know they were on to him.  Kyle was somewhat irritated by it.  They had grown apart this past year as he had come into his own as a Jedi.  At times it had been hard for Jacen to let him go, he tended to still baby him at times.  This had been a source of tension between them.  It angered Kyle to be treated this way and lately it had been really hard to fight back the anger.  The Mayor responded somewhat nervous.

"Ah no, I assure you if activity of that sort was going on in my city I would be aware of it and believe me when I tell you it is not.  But we are at your disposal, let me know whatever help I may be."

"We thank you."

That was about all they would get out of the Mayor so they decided to start where any responsible investigator would start…..the local bar.  Normally the sight of two Jedi would bring calm and peace to inhabitants of any law abiding citizen but not this place.  The patrons were well aware of just who they were and all seemed closed down by their presence.  Something big was going on here, perhaps this was bigger than they both thought.  They took up position at the bar to gaze over the crowd of people.  The bar tender was short and impatient.

"What'll it be!?"

"Andoan ale."

Kyle wasn't going to pass up the chance at a drink either.

"Make that a double."  

Two rounds later many had come and gone but none stuck out more than the next.  They both had inquired some but didn't want to seem too obvious of their intentions.  Finally when they were just about to move on, what they had been looking for came to them.  A burly man dressed in battered and worn out armor that had New Republic markings grabbed Kyle by the arm and looked sternly at him blaster nudged against him.

"Listen buddy, I know who you guys are and just what you are here for.  You wont find it and even if you do you wont stop us.  You are Jedi, you are noble, you lack what it takes to stop us.  You might as well just leave and save us all some time.  We seek a greater good you fail to see, besides it's your kind that got us into this mess and now we have to clean it up."

Kyle stood straightened himself to his full height and refused to let the sudden intrusion of his privacy anger him.  He simply smiled not frightened one bit by the site of a blaster aimed discreetly at him.

"And just what exactly is it we are trying to stop?"

"Don't play dumb with me.  I'm telling you for your own safety you should leave this place tonight or tomorrow you'll be leaving in a rather unconventional way."

Jacen thought best to run interference and tapped the man on the shoulder and with a slight of hand placed a trace on him.

"Listen friend, perhaps you are right.  Besides we were just leaving anyway.  Come on Kyle, we should be going."

"Yeah listen to your friend…..Oh and I'm serious, leave, tonight."

As they left Kyle once again felt betrayed by his former master.

"Master that was nothing I couldn't handle.  You need not step in every time things seem to get tense.”

“Oh relax Kyle, it was all about timing and uh……tracking.”

Jacen held up a small handheld device with a tracker that was working in full swing.

“You’re tracking him.”

“Exactly.  We get in, get out and put this thing to an end and go home before this operation gets out of hand.  As for now we had better find some shelter and get out of sight.”

Re: Naboo: The Hidden Threat

It was well into the night by this time and they decided it was best to at least recuperate some before following the trace Jacen had attached to the separatist hours ago. They split it up into two shifts one standing guard while the other entered a meditation trance. Jacen had went first but recently finished allowing for Kyle to begin his own. Nearly half way into meditation images began to flash into his mind. They were of pain and suffering and had come so violently they began to overwhelm him. He flinched his head side to side trying to reject the images on a subconscious level but the images only seemed to come faster and more fierce until just like that, they were gone, replaced by the image of himself once again kneeling before a short being of unknown species. He had seen this before in a vision in the past but this one seemed so much more real. As the image began to focus he took a short gasp and his eyes snapped open awaken by a faint whisper.

"Escape your destiny, you can not."

He was surprised to see Jacen shaking him in a concerned manner. Sweat beaded up on his forehead and trickled down both sides of his temples.

"Are you ok?"

Kyle wiped the sweat from his brow and face. Clearing his mind and regaining his composure as he stood.

"Yeah, I'm fine."

"Are you sure? Sit down take a minute"

"Jacen I‘m fine, you know you don't have to treat me like I'm still a kid all the time."

"I didn't mean anything…..ah perhaps you're right. I'm sorry."

Some guilt followed he knew he shouldn't snap at his former master like that. But this constant feeling of being overprotected was wearing on him more and more. There was an awkward silence that followed neither knowing how to respond.

"Is the tracker still relaying information?"

"It is, it has finally stopped moving roughly twenty two hundred meters East of our position, it shouldn't take us long to get there."

"Well let us get moving then so we can find them before they find us."

Jacen was right even covering their tracks they made short work following the trace. Had they not had the benefit of a tracker it would have been very hard to find. They came to a stop near a compound just on the outskirts of the city. To the naked eye it appeared to be abandoned, it was dark and very quiet. From a glance though it seemed to be nearly impossible to make it into without being noticed. There was a good sized kill zone in all directions surrounding the compound which indicated to the Jedi a clear sign that the building was in fact in use and the occupants wanted to know who was approaching well before they actually arrived.

"I see no clear way in, looks like we'll have to take the direct approach and engage them head on."

"I agree Kyle, contact the Mayor and request local security as backup. In the meantime lets go see if anybody is home."

As the two Jedi approached the compound they got the feeling they were being watched. It was an eerie feeling, it was way to quiet for their liking. Nearly half way to the compound Kyle knew this was going way to smooth so he stopped for an instant pondering just how easy it had been up to this point, perhaps to easy, there had to be some logical conclusion. No resistance at all he thought to himself. It came to him just as Jacen was about to take another step, he quickly grabbed him by the shoulder.

"Wait a minute. Stop, don't take another step!"

Jacen stopped with one leg suspended in the air, he wobbled but regained his balance. Both men peered down at the ground in unison. Just below Jacen's suspended foot well concealed was a C-22 fragmentation grenade. As he slowly put is foot down just beside it they both stretched out with the force and to their horror they had been walking blindly straight into a mine field.

"My god."

Kyle smiled.

"At least we know why it was so quiet."

"Yeah somehow I get the feeling that's about the change."

The guard standing watch on the third floor of the compound could see both Jedi unclasp their lightsabers, a clear sign they knew they were standing in the middle of a mine field.. He whispered to himself.

“Hmmmm, guess I’ll have to do it myself.”

Kyle’s danger sense tingled as he felt the incoming shot before the guard had even squeezed the trigger. His lightsaber came to life with a quick snap hiss deflecting the bolt high into the air. Two more shots quickly rang out but this time the two Jedi elected to force jump over them towards the building and out of the mine field. Both Jedi cleared the incoming blaster fire and realized in mid air the shots weren't actually aimed at them but for two fragmentation grenades that lay just next to the spot they had just left from. When the blaster fire struck each mine it started a domino effect of explosions until roughly one quarter of the mine field had detonated. The blast wave sent both men out of control landing awkwardly beyond the mine field. Jacen landed on his side and slid to a stop while Kyle landed on his shoulder and rolled to his feet back peddling slamming his back into the building. It didn't take Jacen long to get back to his feet as well joining Kyle up against the building.

“Well so much for a warm welcome.”

“What do you say we let ourselves in.”

Both men reactivated their sabers. Jacen plunged his blade deep into the blast doors that appeared to be the main entrance and began to carve a doorway for them to enter by while Kyle took up a defensive position directly behind him.
 

Inside soldiers were scurrying everywhere from the commotion outside, rushing for weapons and armor. The first few men to arrive at the entrance took up position around the corner at the end of the hallway. The hallway was medium length that formed into a T at the end. The men watched the door as the hole was slowly cut from the outside. Some began to shift and sweat as nerves took over, when the cut finally completed they steadied their rifles towards the door and flinched at the loud sound of it hitting the floor. Kyle was the first one through the hole leaping headfirst into a somersault then rolling back to his feet lightsaber at the ready in a defensive stance. One of the men shouted.

“OPEN FIRE!”

Blaster fire errupted coming in steady and fast, Jacen could see Kyle twirling his lightsaber defensively blocking incoming fire as he stepped through the door moving in next to his former apprentice. Both men moved forward deflecting fire back where they came from striking some of the soldiers down.


Soma sat amongst the separatists leaders in a secure room hidden well below the compound. There sat five in all with Soma at the head of the table. He had arrived hours before the Jedi had and was pleased to see they had finally arrived.

“Take I will your top commander and confront the Jedi. Wait here you must until I return.”

"As you wish my lord. Take my very best commander Aliura and her security detail."

Aliura did not hesitate and followed the Dark Jedi up to ground level and into an elevator that took them to the top floor and into a conference room. They would wait there for the Jedi to arrive, she knew this and couldn't help but question the rationale of this move but decided it best to keep her reservations to herself.


The first wave of soldiers were either dead or had retreated which gave the two Jedi a chance to secure the entrance. This also allowed for their backup to arrive, one squad of regular security and two squads a special tactics group. The local squad was assigned the task of guarding the front entrance while the two special tactics squads would accompany them level by level clearing each floor. The resistance began to thin out on each floor as most would either die or had surrendered. On the top floor there was but one room left to clear. Kyle was the first into the room and froze at the sight of Soma. He sat behind a large desk with two guards on each side of him. The guard to his right had taken up a protective shield between the door and Aliura blocking her from the field of view. Kyle pointed his lightsaber at Soma.

"You, I know you."

"Know somebody else you do. Hmmmmmm?"

Kyle was in no way prepared for what happened next.

"Kyle?"

As Aliura stepped out from behind her security detail he dropped his lightsaber and stumbled back against the wall. His mouth was wide open with shock. It was her Aliura Dioddai that Kyle had fallen in love with years ago and now she stood before him as his enemy. She had committed crimes against the New Republic, unforgivable crimes. Soma smiled as felt the conflict swarming inside of him. Jacen's heart sank for his former apprentice. This is the reason attachment had been forbidden in the old ways. He stepped forward relieving Kyle of the pain of carrying out their mandate.

"You and your followers have committed crimes against the New Republic, I have been ordered here by the Jedi Order, in the name of the Galactic Senate of the New Republic, you are under arrest. Please hand over your weapons and come peacefully."

With a nod to Aliura and her guards Soma offered his hands up in submission.

"As you wish."

Aliura stared at him in shock. How could he just give them up like this, without even a fight.  But her sense of duty and loyality to follow orders overpowered her urge to fight back.  With a deep exhale she ordered their surrender.   

“Do as he says, lay down your weapons."

Re: Naboo: The Hidden Threat

Hearing the sudden news of the Jedi presence on Naboo, Sivan and her apprentice stormed up the marble steps and through the heavy doors of Theed Palace. Fledgling servants of the new Sith order, waiting at the door, offered to take her cloak and gear, but she brushed past them, intent on getting the word to those who mattered. The report from the palace's security detail rested securely in her pocket, holding vital evidence of the Jedi's involvement.

The foyer was as impressive at the palace's exterior. Priceless artwork hung upon lustrous stone walls. Marble tiles stretched across the floor to where the sweeping main stairway rose toward the upper reaches of Theed Palace where her master rested.

Sivan and Niobe stepped briskly onto the steps. A flock of well-dressed cabinet members of King Tymen loitered at the next level, lounging indolently on plush seats or mingling in the corners, exchanging carefree gossip. The trill of laughter was mixed with the gentle clink of crystal goblets filled with vintage wine, made from the gardens of Naboo.

The Sith's face hardened. She had little patience with such fools. These preening sybarites were no part of them, merely pawns in their planning, more interested in their own pleasures than the Sith's never-ending battle against the Jedi Order. Her sudden arrival attracted little notice. A few curious heads swung toward her, examining the black-claded Sith vixen through bored and disinterested eyes, before returning to more engaging amusements. Sivan barely caused a ripple in the flow of sophisticated chit-chat and witty repartee working its way around the lavishly appointed chambers and hallways.

<I>No matter,</i> Sivan thought. These were not the people she needed to speak to. Her eyes scanned the large chamber, hoping to locate Sythis himself, but the Dark Lord of the Sith was nowhere to be seen.

A bitter smile reached her lips. If Lord Sythis was not here, presiding over the palace's activities, then she knew where he had to be.

---

"Excellent, Themyscira! You have done well. The dark side is indeed strong within you.." the Sith Lord whispered as the fiery redhead dispatched yet another squad of battle droids in front of her. Their smoldering remains lay by her bare feet as she extinguished the fire from her hands.

"May I rest now? I grow tired of this constant training…" she announced. Darth Sythis quietly folded his arms inside his dark robes and frowned. <I>So what else is new?</i> he thought sourly.

The double doors of the training room banged open, jarring him out of his mood. He turned to see Sivan and her apprentice barging into the privacy of his chambers. Themyscira backed away instinctively as Sivan and Niobe strode across the room. The Sith vixen reached beneath her cloak and slammed a datadisc onto a top of a nearby desk.

Intense yellow eyes locked onto his. "We have a serious problem!" she stated. "The Jedi are here!"

Darth Sythis, on the other hand, could not have been less interested or impressed. "Yes, I know, my apprentice. I suppose what you want to show me concerns them?" To her perpetual dismay, the Dark Lord of the Sith had zero patience for anything that interfered with the training of his disciples, which clearly included this impromptu interruption.

Sivan found herself growing increasingly impatient. "And you were not going to bother to let any of the Sith order know about this?!" she declared, not wanting to lose sight of the larger issue. "The report states the Jedi have taken Soma prisoner and have taken down a large portion of our security forces. We should gather the rest of the Sith and head down there in force." She brushed aside her cloak to reveal her lightsaber clasped to her belt in gesture.

A grimace played upon the Dark Lord's lips. "It is not necessary, my dearest Sivan," Sythis said bluntly. "At least not now. Not for a random incursion." He shook his head at the sheer absurdity of the notion. "As if two Jedi will cause our plans to unravel so easily…"

Sivan couldn't believe her ears. "Not necessary? They blasted into Soma's compound with full force!" That alone, she reflected, was a sheer sign the New Republic was aware something was going on Naboo, which gave them enough incentive to dispatch two Jedi Knights. With this, they could now confirm the Sith were hiding on this planet. "If the Jedi report back their discovery, our plans will be–"

"Don't be a foolish girl, Sivan! Everything that is happening has occured according to my design!" Sythis interrupted her. He crossed his arms over his chest, challenging her to contradict him.

Sivan took a deep breath, making an effort to hold onto her temper. Like it or not, Darth Sythis was a master of the dark side. If this was planned all along, she should have realized it in the first place.

"Please forgive me, Master Sythis," she insisted cooly, "but I merely worried about what is happening. The Jedi are a threat."

"Not to me or Soma. What the Jedi do not know is they have fallen into our trap. By the time they realize this, it will be too late," he stated flatly. A condescending grin slid across his face.

Even Niobe seemed to doubt Sythis's claims. "Still, Master, we cannot underestimate them," she claimed. "Remember the past, it was only two Jedi that brought down the Neimoidian's plans when Naboo was blockaded by them."

"I know that, Niobe." Sythis could not fault her for her skepticism. "But Soma informed me before this happened he will take care of the Jedi. I have full faith in him."

Niobe nodded, seeing his point. She turned to Sivan seeking the other Sith's reaction.

Darth Sythis, in turn, glanced impatiently at the chrono above the doorway. He heaved a heavy sigh. "Very well," he conceded. "Sivan and Niobe, seek out Darth Hydran and inform what has happened. Have her men tighten up security around the compound, but do not engage the Jedi. I wish to see how Soma resolves this little test."

"Yes, my Master," Sivan replied, kneeling quickly.

"Good. Now leave us. Themyscira has much to learn and we have so little time…"

Re: Naboo: The Hidden Threat

All four of them were restrained and escorted back downstairs into a transport. Kyle could not watch as Aliura walked past him. He looked straight ahead even as she paused to look him in the eyes before being prodded past him.. As she went by he dropped his head for the first time he felt ashamed to be a Jedi. Jacen squeezed his collarbone.

"Come on Kyle, we still have work to do."

As they were being loaded for transport Soma was separated from the rest. The Jedi made sure of this, he was to be escorted back to Courscant personally and questioned by the Jedi. The rest were to be taken before local authorities for trial.. Their first destination was New Centriff however where they were to be processed and made ready for shipping, the local jail was already full but they had scrambled to throw up more make shift holding cells until the transport from Theed arrived. The three A-A6z speeder trucks rumbled to a stop in front of the make shift holding cells. In just one night the city had been transformed, it resembled a military installation now with all of the battle droids on patrol. To the average person they had been sent to assist local security with the daunting task of safely securing and processing the prisoners, a task local security was ill-equipped to handle. Truth be told they were actually ordered by Soma just before he left the capital not only as a back up plan but as a chance to field test them as well. Two of the trucks were unloaded, the third housed Soma but he was not to be unloaded here, he would be moved across town to the cities high profile holding cells.

"Kyle, I will stay and oversee operations on this end, escort Soma across town and watch over him until I arrive."

"Yes master."

"And don't let him out of your sight, he's to dangerous."

"Yes master."

From the moment Kyle climbed back aboard the truck Soma went to work on him. Reaching out with the force to speak to him.

"Trust your friend do you?"

Kyle tried to ignore him but it was hard, doubt was being placed in his head by a master, he was not trained nor was he ready to handle this sort of pressure.

"Betray your loved one, the Separatists will. Certain death awaits her, see this you will."

He kept the pressure constant even after being processed and stuck in his holding cell. Kyle was ordered not to let him out of his sight and he used this to his advantage. He spoke to him now.

"Help you see through the hypocrisy of the Jedi, I can."

Kyle shifted which gave away some agreement of the subject.

"Already suspect this you do?"

Kyle just glared at him and shook he his trying to portray a sign of annoyance more than agreement.

"Come for Aliura, and all of the prisoners, the Separatists will. Stop until they are dead they will not."

This comment finally broke him. Frustration was boiling over now, the arrogance of this creature, he had ended every statement with such certainty from the moment he laid eyes on him.

"Look around you, you've lost. This was a rag tag terrorist group, pieced together with old equipment and poorly executed tactics. And let's not forget we have you, their leader and you are impossibly out numbered."

"So certain are you mmmmm? Have their leaders, you do not. As long as they live, continued operations, more to follow them, there will be."

Doubt now replaced frustration in Kyle's mind. Was he right, was there more of them. They did turn themselves over rather quickly, was that just a ploy to get the other leaders to safety. There was much turmoil inside him now so much conflict it was hard to control.

"Allow them to be questioned, they will not. Take you to them, only I can. As a Jedi, lack what it is to stop them you do."

"What do you mean? Tell me where they are and I will show you what it is to stop them."

"Ohhhh spoken with true passion I see, good. Learn to focus your passion into power, only through me you can."

"And why would I join you? What could I possibly gain?"

"No not to gain, what are you standing to loose? The one you love, transported to Theed with the rest, is she, hmm?"

"Possibly."

"The transports are leaving now mmmm? Come for them they will. Allowed to reach the capital they will not. Die with the rest she will."

Kyle chuckled.

"Well I guess you aren't as smart as you think, the transports aren't leaving until tomorrow morning, a good eight hours from now."


Jacen was pleasantly surprised to see the prisoner transport arrive ahead of schedule. This was unexpected but very much welcomed. The quicker they got these prisoners to the capital the quicker they could go home. His joy was quickly replaced by pain, not of his own but from Kyle. It was like a kick to the stomach it came on so strong. Something was wrong. He tried his comlink a couple times but got no response. He checked with a commanding battle droid to see if there were any reports from Soma's holding cell. All reports showed all secure.

"Dammit Kyle, now is not the time to pull this, you don't have to always check up on me nonsense."

Though his first instinct was to check in on him personally, his duty was to see these prisoners safely on board the transport and on their way to the capital and that outweighed his concern for Kyle. Even though distracted he managed to see every last one onto the transport. The local security chief met with him just as the last door locked and sealed on the transports to give him a full report.

"Well that's the last of them sir. Here is the detailed report you requested, we can not thank enough for what you accomplished here today."

"Thank you chief. If you'll excuse me though, I hate to cut this short but I must go there are other pressing matters."

"Of course Master Jedi."


Through all of this Kyle hadn't even noticed the light blinking on his personal comlink.

"Lok here, go ahead master."

"Kyle, I've been trying to reach you, is everything alright?"

Kyle sighed once again his former master did not trust him.

"Yes master."

"Good, the transports have arrived ahead of schedule, we have finished loading them up. Everything is secure here, I am sending two squads of security droids to escort them back to the capital. Stay where you are I'll meet you so we can begin making preparations to depart with our prisoner."

There was anger for a brief moment from the news but it was quickly replaced by despair, helplessness, and fear. This was a real possibility the more he thought about it. He turned his back to Soma as not to show the emotions on his face. He kept asking himself, what a Jedi would do, should do. But the creature could see through that which he had hoped to hide.

"Bad news mmmmm?"

Panic was now upon him, precious minutes ticked away, once Jacen arrived all hope would be lost. He turned to Soma with a determined look.

"If I set you free, you will take me to them, so I can stop them?"

He could feel the victory now and only nodded in response.

"Time, short it is, your Jedi friend, try to stop you he will."

Kyle retrieved the cell key from one of the two battle droids standing guard just outside of the holding area then sent them away on a made up patrol. He didn't want to take the risk of the droids alerting anybody of what he was about to do. He hurried back inside and released the locking mechanism to the cell. As the door swung open Jacen stepped into the holding area.

"Kyle!? What in the world are you doing?"

"I have to save her, she will die if I don't."

"Kyle this is no longer our call to make. They have armed escort back to the capital, come to your senses, lock him back in there before this gets out of hand."

"Told you did I, lack what needs to be done the Jedi do."

This seemed to be a stalemate, deciding to force the inevitable Soma stepped forward pushing for a reaction from Jacen. Jacen quickly unhooked his lightsaber and activated it, with a snap hiss his weapon came to life.

"Stop right there, I don't wish to hurt you, but don't mistake my reluctance as unwillingness."

Kyle unhooked his own lightsaber and activated it as well.

"I'm sorry Jacen but we are leaving, through you if we have to."

Shocked and horrified, Jacen was nearly speechless.

"What? "

"You are not hurting anybody today and we are leaving."

Jacen's saber dipped mirroring the sinking feeling in his heart but as Kyle stepped forward he raised it back up again.

"I'm sorry Kyle, that is something I cannot do."

Anger came rushing back to him, even now when he needed him the most, his former master chose his sacred code, his devotion to an ancient religion over him. How dare he! And without warning in that instant his longest most trusted ally became his biggest enemy. He countered him, tapping and then slapping his lightsaber up and out of his way. Jacen quickly countered back peddling towards the door, steadying himself for more to come. Kyle wasted no time advancing on him, feeding off his rage. He could feel the power flood into him, it washed over his entire body, it was intoxicating, he wanted more. He gripped his weapon with both hands unleashing powerful strikes that continued to push his former master back on his heels struggling to fend his strikes off. As they reached the outer most door Kyle took a downward swing that was met high by Jacen, he pulled back twirling his saber above his head quickly countering the block into a low sweep aimed to take his legs clean off. This strike was met with the same precision and blocked as well, but with a quick twist of his wrists and an upward push from Kyle, Jacen found himself off balance, Kyle landed a hard kick to his chest knocking him to the ground. As he attempted to scramble back to his feet Kyle sent a powerful force push knocking him to the ground once again sliding in the direction of a river that ran parallel to the holding cell. Jacen finally made it to his feet, his robes slightly worn and dirty where he had impacted the ground.

"Don't do this Kyle. Please let me help you, you are better than this."

"You don't want to help me! You never have, you've only wanted to live your life through me, to get back what you felt you lost. I asked for your help but you chose your way not mine. I‘m done living your life."

Jacen took a deep breath as Kyle charged him. He struggled to keep up back peddling as Kyle unleashed a flurry of attacks. Soma paced them from behind, he could feel the dark side flowing through Kyle now. He would become his apprentice there was no doubting that now. As they reached the river Jacen was beginning to tire, his hair was wet from sweat, his arms burned as he blocked incoming attacks. He continued to back peddle, each time he tried to gain a little distance, Kyle closed the gap. As they made it further down stream the river began to intensify signaling they were approaching a waterfall. Jacen could barely keep up with the continued volley of attacks and in a vain attempt to gain more distance Jacen leapt for a boulder in the middle of the river, it was the only one within distance and there was no way Kyle could follow without leaving himself completely defenseless. Jacen took a deep breath trying to regain himself. He nodded as he realized his friend was gone.

"I never thought it would ever come to this Kyle. I am sorry."

"I have been a fool for all of these years, brainwashed by you and the others. I failed to see the big picture, failed to see my full potential. Not anymore, I have just begun to realize my new powers."

Jacen shook his head in disbelief. He looked all around him for some way out of this. Water crashed against the rock he stood on making it very slippery.  He could not swim his way out. If he jumped to the other side Kyle would simply follow him. Kyle must have been thinking along the same lines as he seemed to be sizing up the situation as well. As it stood right now it was safer to wait it out. As thought hit him, his former apprentice looked at the lightsaber in his hands then directly into his eyes, with intense fury, he threw his weapon like a boomerang. It surprised Jacen and as he attempted to block it Kyle sent another powerful force push knocking him into the water where he was swept up by the current and sent over the edge. As Kyle peered over the edge, Jacen was gone. It was a steep drop and in his mind nobody could have survived a fall like that.

"Done well you have."

"Take me to the transports now, we have to save her."


Jacen plunged to the surface gasping for air. Pain shot down his right leg and shoulder, he had hit the bottom of the waterfall with such force it had broken his leg, separated his shoulder, and knocked the wind out of him. The current had carried him some distance that finally opened up into a lake. He struggled with one arm to swim to the edge and clawed his way out of the water. He rolled over nearly blacking out from the pain. He used a Jedi technique to minimize it and regain his composure. As he rolled back over he had thought all hope had been lost but in the distance he saw help approaching, there were two royal guards and what looked like a dignitary. He struggled to his feet and limped towards them, holding his shoulder in place to try and reduce the pain. As he reached the two guards he instantly recognized who they had been accompanying.

"Senator!"

He desperately tried to push towards him but the guards would not allow it.

"Hold it right there!"

As the guards restrained him the Senator waved him through. Reluctantly the guards allowed it and Jacen stumbled pulling a data card from his belt. The Senator braced him to keep him from falling.

"Take your time, what happened to you?"

 
"I was betrayed by my former apprentice and a Sith Lord. Please there isn't much time. The Sith will be launching an attack against you and the government. They are here on this planet right now, you must see this information back to the Jedi council."

Sythis took the data card from the Jedi..

"Of course Master Jedi, I will see to it that this information is secured at once."

Without warning Sythis activated his lightsaber impaling Jacen through the chest. With horrific shock Jacen stared up at him, the Dark Lord stared back down as well allowing his true Sith features to show, his yellow eyes burned deep within his soul. The last thing Jacen would ever see was a Sith Lord staring down on him. The last thing he would ever know, was the Sith had won.


Soma and Kyle raced on course trying to catch the transports but as they neared them they could see the burning wreckage from a distance. They were to late, because of Jacen they were to late. Kyle rushed to the transports slicing the crumpled metal with his lightsaber one by one, desperately trying to find Aliura. It was in the second transport he ripped open where he would find her lifeless body. Burned to an almost unrecognizable state. He stumbled backwards shaking his head.

“No, no, no, no, no, NOOO!!”

He turned to Soma anger burned through the tears welling up in his eyes, he knelt before him bowing his head.

“Tell me where to find them, tell me, and I will do whatever it is that you ask…my master.”

Re: Naboo: The Hidden Threat

<I>So much for the Jedi…</i>

In a matter of moments, the Jedi's life was over. Darth Sythis stood triumphantly over the fallen body of his enemy. His breathing had now ceased. Jacen was no more.

Before he could fully savor his victory, however, the Sith's keen sense of the Force alerted him to another presence. Petite sounds of distant footfalls were coming from the palace. Lord Sythis looked up proudly to see Themyscira and a small group of King Tymen's aides and ladies gazing down at him from the entrance of Theed Palace. He nodded in approval, plainly pleased by Darth Scira's prowess.

"The nobles are upset, Master," Scira informed. The Dathomiri's lean face bore a habitually disapproving expression. This time, she wore a leather corset under her high-necked black robe. "They have witnessed what you have done to this… Jedi."

"Tymen's nobles are upset?" Sythis said archly. Smirking, he placed a hand over his heart. "Scira, please take note of the pain that brings me."

Darth Scira ignored her master's sarcastic tone. "Perhaps, Master. But it is more than enough for them to start doubting our place here."

"Enough!" Sythis barked. The woman's effrontery bordered on insolence. "Has not Saevita and King Tymen removed any kind of doubt and resistance from their sight? Naboo is ours now and no one will dare question our authority. If anyone does, we will deal with them as we always have." He glanced over to the prone body by their feet, then to his guards that stood nearby. "Guards! Remove this body from my sight and dispose of it."

The lightsaber now disengaged, he slipped it back into his robes. "Walk with me, Scira. There is much to talk."

She was in no mood for another one of his lectures. "Please do not address me yet again about your push for me to use the lightsaber in my training."

"You task me." He swept a withering gaze over her clothing. He had never approved of her dressing like a Dathomir witch. "I do hope one day you will accept who you are now, not what you were."

"I am what I am– a Dathomiri witch!" she said indignantly. As always, she chafed at her master's ways. Why shouldn't she continue to be a witch as she was back on her home planet? Didn't other Dathomiri served among the Sith? Why was her master so determined to mold her into some lightsaber-wielding Sith Lord instead?

"You are a <I>Sith</I>," he shot back. He came up beside her. "Time and again, you have agreed to submit to my training, so now you dare reject what I have teached? To become a Sith is much more rewarding than any bare-footed witch could ever imagine."

She turned to confront him. "Then if I am not deserving, release me from my training and let me return!"

"No! You are mine now! I need you!" His voice quaked with emotion, betraying the deep love he felt for her. The outburst caught them both by surprise, and he needed a moment to compose himself. "You are different from the others, Scira. And one day you will become more powerful than my other apprentices." He leaned toward her, intent on making her understand. "Scira, I cannot trust my other disciples. They lust for my position in the Sith and I grow tired of their games. You must learn from me. You must learn the dance of politics, to be ruthless and cunning. And, above all else, you must be loyal to the Sith. To me."

Scira held her tongue. Despite their frequent quarrels, she never doubted that her master cared for her profoundly. And yet his talk of duty and politics bored her to tears, and sometimes made her feel like one of the caged rancors caught by poachers back on Dathomir. She'd sooner be chased through the forests of Dathomir by a dozen wild rancors than suffer through another Sith council meeting..

Why couldn't her master understand that?

Instead he stepped forward and cupped her chin in his hand. A little more warmth crept into his stern voice and gaze.

"After all," he reminded her, "without the bonds between us, we are no better than the Jedi I dispatched just now."

A guard approached and bowed. "Senator, a message awaits you from Coruscant. It is urgent."

Lord Sythis glared. "Very well. Leave us." He turned to his apprentice. "A Sith's work is never done. Scira, for now, convince the nobles in your ways that any doubt in our acts will be punishable. See to it."

"Yes, my Master."

Re: Naboo: The Hidden Threat

Soma smiled at his new apprentice.  His well calculated plan had worked without a hitch.  He couldn't help but smile.  

"Rise my apprentice.  To the compound you must go, find the ones responsible you will."

"We searched the compound level by level, no one was left."

"So certain are you.  Here take this and look again you will."

He pulled a data pad from his side pouch and handed it over.  It contained the location and codes for the hidden turboshaft.  

"What is this?"

"Answers, that you seek.  Responsible for this tragedy, find them with that you will.  Now go you must, wait in the Capital for you I will."  

"Yes master."

Soma summoned for his own transport as Kyle raced back towards the compound.  As Kyle sped back towards the compound he kept replaying the sight of the wreckage over and over again in his mind.  The more he thought about it, the more it enraged him.  Compounding it even more, he could hear the words of his former master in the back of his mind.  The Jedi code replayed over and over again as well.  Conflict raged within his own mind.  He was trying to fight back all of these feelings but the rage was overwhelming.  As the compound came into view on the horizon any kind of peace and serenity that was trying to reemerge vanished.  His anger was uncontrollable at the thought of the remaining leaders, still there, still in hiding like the cowards they were.  The people responsible for the death of Aliura were within reach now and he would stop at nothing to kill every last one of them, he would enforce his own punishment upon them.  The leaders still sat waiting for the return of Soma.  They were growing impatient as several hours had passed with no word, not even a hint.  Not to mention the commotion from the upper levels had ceased a little while ago.

“Do you think he is actually coming back?”

“This insurrection was short lived, did you hear all of that blaster fire from above.  Reports had stopped coming in as well, that can only mean one thing.  Those above have either been captured or killed.”

Talk like this had been raging for sometime now.  All five leaders continued to argue the fate of their next move, or if there was even to be a next move.  As if on cue though the comm unit came to life.  

“Shhh, be quiet.  It’s him, he is still alive.”

One of the members pressed the activation button, and a silhouette of Soma emerged.  

“Master Soma, we were worried something had happened to you.”

“Cracked down the security droids have.  No longer safe this planet is.”

“What are we to do?”

“Sent my apprentice I have, see to it you exit the planet he will.”

“We will prepare and await for his arrival.”

“Good, arriving any moment he will be.”

As the image vanished back into the comm unit the turboshaft indicator started flashing, it was a warning signaling an unannounced arrival.  They motioned for the two armed guards to ready themselves.  They stood ready for anything to emerge from behind the doors too.  As the doors slid open, they could see Kyle standing there, quietly.  His hood was raised, the shadow hiding the anger on his face, the hatred that burned through his eyes.  One of the leaders took a deep breath and then exhaled in a sigh of relief.  They all looked at each other and smiled.

“Wheww, sorry we are all a little tense.  Master Soma had just assured us of your arrival, and that you will see to it we are escorted safely off planet.”

Kyle stepped forward and sized up each guard standing on each side of him.

“Is that so?  I was instructed to see to it you exit the planet by whatever means possible and I intend to do just that.”

“Well we had better get going then, before more droids arrive.”

“I guess we should.”

Kyle thumbed his lightsaber to life and with a quick one two move stabbed the guard to his left and then twirled his weapon back around slicing down the one to his right.  Each of the five leaders stood there in shock.  Two of the five managed to squeeze off one shot apiece as the other three nervously stumbled to draw their blasters.  Kyle deflected both shots back the way they came with deadly precision, killing them both.  He sent his saber twirling through the air at the third impaling him through the chest.  As the fourth finally drew his blaster he found it yanked from his grip into Kyle‘s waiting hand.  The man looked up just in time to see Kyle fire a shot that struck him in the head.  The fifth and final leader stood still, frantically struggling to draw his blaster, he finally realized the clip on his holster was still fastened, as he unfastened it Kyle shook his finger at him.  He paused weighing his options of the grim situation.

“Wait!  Please, I have money, I will give you whatever you want.”

“Money, you think money will save you.  What I want you have already taken.  What I want I can never have back, because of you.  And for that, there is only one thing I want from you.”

The leaders eyes went wide as Kyle inhaled a deep breath of hatred and rage.  He reached for the leader channeling that hatred and rage down his arm and out of his outstretched hand.  The last remaining leader found he suddenly could not breath.  He scratched at his throat, desperately trying to remove the invisible hand that was choking the life from him.  Kyle could feel the pain emanating from the man as his life slowly escaped his body, the pain only fed his anger.   It felt good, it felt clean, and pure.  Finally the struggling had ceased, Kyle could feel the life completely escape his body.  As he released his grip, the lifeless body fell to the floor impacting the ground with a loud thud.  He force pulled his lightsaber back to his hand, clipping it back to his belt in one smooth motion as he made his way back to the turbolift.  He turned to look over the carnage he had just inflicted.  Reflecting back there was no more conflict within him, there was no more right or wrong, no more good or evil.  Everything Jacen had taught him about Jedi ethics had just dissolved with one squeeze of his hand.  Everything was simple now, he found hatred was the only sensible law in the galaxy.  His anger had demanded justice, justice a Jedi could never have delivered.  The only answer to his anger was pain, someone else’s pain.

He triggered his comm link to life, reporting back to his master.

“It is done my master.”

“Good, return to the capital you must.  Done well you have, to see our new Empire return to the galaxy, much to do, we still have.”

“Yes master.”

Re: Naboo: The Hidden Threat

The wreaking smell of filth and excrement filled his nose. The echoing clatter of footsteps on the metal platforms, the squeals of muffled blaster fire, the cries of a refugee being battered and beaten, blood spilling helplessly from his nose, and the constant shouts of theif fill the air. Even the very ground he touches has dirt and grime, as if a million shoes had treaded over it (which they likely had). But it’s how you see the “Smugglers Moon” that truly gives it life. Lights almost blinding his protruding eyes, days and nights forever dark, buildings lifting far beyond the star-filled skies and red—that sanguine red that gives you the forceful reminder that a moon so filled with life is equally filled with death.

Despite a strong attachment to this home moon, he knew it was time to leave. The lights were straining his eyes and the smell of rotting carcasses was finally wearing him down. He was ready to go if only for a while. He scratched his head and his eyes turned towards the sky. One of those planets would bring new sights, new smells, and credits.

He could smell the Meltdown Café, before he could actually see the neon sign. It was a mixture of aromas: burning spice, spilt Tatooine Sunburns, and sweat. He never understood why primates had to sweat. It was a gross and odorous bodily function and its purpose wasn’t apparent. He reminded himself that that was another reason to add to his ever-growing hate of the warm blooded.  The slight echoes of the soothing sounds of the Jizz and low pounding of the Bandfill came next, sounding almost like the hearts (of which he did not possess) he had heard about. Finally he could hear the slurred insults and expletives of the café. If he was to get a ticket off this frakin’ moon he would have to deal with these drunken humans giving him a hard time.

As he entered the café he was greeted by a parade of insults, including the classic “buggy”.  Usually the clash of pans and pots, or even the pounding on the rusted metal interior drowned them out. He ignored them as best as he could, but like a Bantha tick, one particular human would not let up. “Hey Buggy, where'd you lose your feelers? Did an antenna breaker get ya’? What’d you do to get that punishment?” The primate giggled with hiccups and “frak”s littered in.

“Shut it, Bantha breath.” Drix’t said clear and concisely. You had to be simple when the humans were inebriated.

“Make me!” The human said in return, his swagger matching his drunkenness. Drix’t used to just ignore the human when it got to this point, but he honestly didn’t mind wasting a blaster shot on him. He drew the IR-5. The human began to back off, pleading and knowing he was helpless. All primates were. He was about to shoot when a scaly palm pushed the barrel down toward the metal flooring. The rodian looked at Drix’t frowning. Drix’t knew the rodian well, his name was Savo, and this night he wasn’t in the mood for cleaning up a mess. Savo explained to Drix’t he didn’t allow the discharge of weapons in his café.

“Never again!” The rodian said in frustration. As he spoke, his words had an obvious lisp to them like most of his species, “No blathter in the Meltdown Café.”

“I understand, I promise it won’t happen again.” Drix’t said in return, lying through his teeth.

“You, come with me.” He pointed to Drix’t and motioned his hand to behind the counter. As he led the Verpine he repeated, “No blathters! Whatsoever.” As Drix’t moved he saw some shuffling in pockets and the covering of holsters filled with pistols. It was obvious no one took the rule or the rodian seriously. When Savo finally stopped walking, they were in an alley directly outside of the café. An unsettling sense that something was rotting very near them filled Drix’t, but he brushed it off as paranoia. Savo ran a somewhat respectable establishment; he wouldn’t let someone die in the back of his café, would he? "It must be the breeze," he told himself, but after Savo’s bizarre behavior in the cantina he didn’t know what to think of his “friend”.

“You make very big thene, you know that, Dax?” He said, although it wasn’t a question more of a statement of fact, “Correlians are big demographic in my buthneth, I can’t have them getting worried about being shot by a crathy Verpine—”

“I know, I know.” Drix’t said his voice more annoyed than apologetic. He wanted to talk business not Bantha shit.

“You know? If you know, you wouldn’t have almoth shot one.”

“Look you won’t have to worry about me messing up business for a long time.” Drix’t reassured him. He could see Savo’s eyes widen and his antennae flitter just a bit.

Excitement filled Savo’s voice, “Good, good, it’th not that I don’t like you friend, but humanth are more free with credits when they feel safe you know?” The words came out quickly, like they were almost slurred together.

“There’s only one catch my friend,” Drix’t said, his voice gentle and sly as if concealing his true intentions.  Drix’t had nothing to conceal.

“Yes, what is it.”

“I need work. Work that will last me, not like the last job.” He reminisced about the brief and unnecessary mission he had been involved with, due mostly to Savo's misinformation. A pea brain Ithorian decided it necessary to hire a renowned slicer to figure out how to open his door after he lost his key. Talk about wasting talent.

“Oh yeth, that was unfortunate. Hmm, let me think.” Lids formed over his eyes and he concentrated. “Well there ith Naboo.”

“Naboo?”

“Yeth, there’s a client, Siovan, who’th thooking for a thlicer on Naboo. I’m not sure what it entails, but knowing her it should be interesting.”

“Naboo sounds…different. Thank you friend, could you tell her I’m coming?”

“Of course…Don’t come back to thoon.” He yelled at Drix’t, only slightly sarcastic. If a rodian could smile, Savo would have right then.

 Drix’t told himself quietly, “I won’t.”


Unfortunately Drix’t never garnered the unique skill at Starship building that his race was so renowned for. His father simply didn’t have the inclination or the knowledge to teach him. Without a ship, Drix’t would have to take a passenger liner to Naboo. That meant he would have to shell 2,000 credits and tuck away his electronic lock breaker carefully. The ship was filled with only the basic amenities and like most ships entering Nar Shaddaa airspace they were a little seedy and definitely had something to hide. Their supposed meeting of the "bare-minimum" of escape pods on liners of this size, was actually quite below the minimum. They had some “unexpected damages” to them. The liner wasn’t worried if they had a slicer on board, but if they heard they had a public official or inspector, they would be scrambling the staff trying to stop them from seeing the pod chamber.  

Drix’t showed them his identification and fell back into his seat. In order to be a little more accommodating than he was at the Meltdown Café when he met his client, he decided to sleep most of his journey. Little did he know that waiting for him in the Theed spaceport, was a group of primates, part of a human religion called the Sith.