"Crossroads of the Force" (AU) - Sequel to "Corellian Connection"

[Fish1941]

The following story is the third in the "Altered Lives" Series (following "Altered Lives" and "The Corellian Connection") about the lives of Anakin, Padme and other SW characters during the period between ROTS and ANH. This third story is called "Crossroads of the Force":


"CROSSROADS OF THE FORCE"

RATING: PG-13 - Violence
SUMMARY: Romance, betrayal and danger surrounds a conference being held on Ord Mantell for the newly formed Rebel Alliance.
FEEDBACK: - Be my guest. But please, be kind.
DISCLAIMER: All characters and things STAR WARS belong to Lucasfilm. The characters, Romulus Wort aka Darth Rasche, Voranda Sen, Zoebeida Dahl and Igraine Colbert are my creations.

AUTHOR'S NOTE: This is the third Alternate Universe story in a series of five set between ROTS and ANH. It is set ten years after "The Corellian Connection".

PROLOGUE


17BBY - MOS EISLEY, TATOOINE


Two men slowly descended the ramp of a small star cruiser. The younger man regarded Obi-Wan Kenobi with deep brown yes that radiated hope. "Have you changed your mind, Obi-Wan? About Coruscant?"

The former Jedi Master heaved a regretful sigh. "I'm afraid not, Ferus. I have already taken a great chance by searching for you and helping you search for your friends, Roan Lands and that Garen fellow."

"But the more Jedi we find, the better chance we will have in creating a strong resistance against the Empire," Ferus protested. Several weeks ago, Obi-Wan had learned that Jedi Knight Siri Tachi's former padawan had survived the Jedi Purge. Obi-Wan decided to chance leaving Tatooine for the planet of Bellasa. There, he found both Ferus Olin and a young boy named Trevor Flume hiding from Imperial authorities. From then on, the trio set upon a series of adventures that included the rescue of Ferus' friend and business partner, Roan Lands; encounters with Boba Fett, a young bounty hunter whose father Obi-Wan had first fought on Kamino so many years ago; participation in a resistance movement against the Empire on Acherin; and the rescue of former Jedi Knight Garen Muln on Ilum. Following Garen's rescue, the trio and the Acherin resistance group set up a clinic at the Nixor Spaceport for the malnutrition Garen.

Obi-Wan gave the younger man a shrewd look. "Surely our experiences on Bellasa and Acherin have convinced you of the futility of such a movement? Now is not the time to confront the Empire, Ferus. We lack the manpower and the arms."

"And you believe that hiding out on Tatooine will help matters?" Ferus retorted.

A deep silence filled the small hangar occupied by the two men. A shaft of sunlight filtered through one of the hangar's windows, illuminating the gold highlights in Ferus' brown hair. For a brief moment, Obi-Wan had to restrain himself from over reacting to the young man's impudence. Until he realized that Ferus would understand better if he revealed the truth. Well . . . most of the truth. Obi-Wan took a deep breath. "Ever since the beginning of the Jedi Purge, Master Yoda and I have been in contact with my old master . . . Qui-Gon Jinn." He paused. "At least, Qui-Gon's ghost."

Ferus frowned. "How is that possible? Once a Jedi dies, he or she becomes one with the Force and loses the individual identity. Are you saying that it's possible to retain one's identity following death?"

"Qui-Gon has done it," Obi-Wan stated simply. "And he is now teaching both Master Yoda and myself." He gave Ferus an intense stare. "I could teach you how to contact Qui-Gon's ghost. And he can help you learn to retain your identity in the afterlife."

After a long pause, Ferus replied, "I'm sorry, Obi-Wan. Perhaps another time." The former glanced away in disappointment, as the other man continued, "I believe it is more important to find any surviving Jedi Knights."

"And confront the Emperor?" Obi-Wan sadly added. He sighed. "I see."

Ferus stiffened slightly. "Do you? I cannot help but wonder how your former padawan would have reacted to your suggestion. I cannot see him living in some remote corner of the galaxy, learning how to become a ghost."

Annoyed by the younger man's righteous tone, Obi-Wan replied sharply, "I assure you that searching for missing Jedi Knights is the last thing on Anakin's mind."

"Anakin is alive?" Ferus' deep brown eyes bored sharply into Obi-Wan's.

Obi-Wan cursed himself inwardly for his slip of the tongue. He, Master Yoda and Bail Organa had promised each other to maintain silence on the Skywalker family's situation. More importantly, Obi-Wan had not been able to reveal Anakin's brief stint as a Sith apprentice. Especially since Ferus already knew about the identity of Sidious' present 'emissary' - Darth Rasche.

"To be honest, I'm not quite certain anymore," Obi-Wan finally answered. "He was last seen by Solipo Yeb, the former senator of Andalia. According to an acquaintance of mine, Anakin had given Senator Yeb passage from Corellia to Avaram about a year ago. It seems he has become a freight pilot . . . and an occasional smuggler." He spoke the last words with slight distaste.

"I see." Ferus' face became expressionless. "In other words, seeking Anakin's help would be a complete waste of time."

Obi-Wan heaved another sigh. "Perhaps not. I am certain that Anaking might consider hel . . ."

"No, I'm afraid that you may have been right the first time, Obi-Wan," the younger man insisted. "That searching for missing Jedi would be the last thing on Anakin's mind. Obviously, being a freight captain and smuggler is a more profitable endeavor."

A retort hovered on the tip of Obi-Wan's tongue. He considered reminding Ferus that the latter had left the Jedi Order, while still a padawan . . . in order to form a business partnership with Roan Lands. But the former Jedi Master also recalled that an incident between Anakin and Ferus had precipitated the latter's departure from the Order. And he remembered that Ferus' business with Lands involved finding new identities for those who had exposed corporate wrongdoings. Since the creation of the Empire, the two partners seemed determined to create a Jedi sanctuary on an asteroid near Ilam. It would seem pointless to remind Ferus of his defection from the Jedi Order. Especially since it would pale in comparison with Anakin's defection. And if Ferus knew the truth about his former apprentice, his low opinion of Anakin would only strengthen.

Obi-Wan took a deep breath. "Well, it seems that the matter is closed." He started toward the hangar's exit. Then he paused, as whirled around to face the younger man. "But what if you do happen to encounter Anakin? What then?"

After a brief hesitation, Ferus shrugged his shoulders. "I don't know, Obi-Wan. Perhaps I might suggest that he join Roan and me in our endeavor. I simply don't know."

The younger man's voice hinted reluctance. Which did not surprise Obi-Wan. Both Anakin and Ferus had never respond well to one another. Come to think of it, Anakin's relationship with Romulus Wort - now Darth Rasche - had been equally strained. "I'm sure that the both of you will decide upon the right course," Obi-Wan added. "As for this decision to go to Coruscant . . ."

"According to Galen, Fay-Tor might be there," Ferus said, interrupting the older man. "I must find out for myself."

"But to take the boy into danger with you," Obi-Wan argued. "Are you sure that is wise?" He referred to Ferus' young companion, a young orphan named Trevor Flame, who had remained aboard the starship.

Ferus quickly dismissed Obi-Wan's fears. "Do not worry about Trevor. As you have seen, he is quite capable of handling himself. Besides, I cannot think of no finer companion."

Nodding, Obi-Wan replied, "If you believe so." Then he fell silent. The two men reached the hangar's entrance. Beyond the opened doors, pedestrians rushed along one of Mos Eisley's narrow streets. "Well . . . this is where we part." Obi-Wan held out his hand to the other man. "Take care, Ferus. And be careful."

A smile touched Fergus' lips, as he shook Obi-Wan's hand. "I will. And I suggest that you do the same."

"Oh, and please do keep in touch." Obi-Wan sighed. "May the Force be with you."

Ferus gravely replied, "May the Force be with you, Obi-Wan. Good-bye." He turned away and strode back to the starship, inside the hangar.

Obi-Wan covered his head with his cloak's hood and slipped into the crowd that thronged the narrow street. Several minutes later, he glanced up in the sky and saw Ferus' starship zoom into the stratosphere. He wondered if he would ever see the younger man, again.


END OF PROLOGUE

[Fish1941]

"CROSSROADS OF THE FORCE"


CHAPTER ONE


8BBY - CORUSCANT


The announciator inside her private office distracted Senator Zoebeida Dahlma from her work. She glanced up and said, "Enter."

Seconds later, a petite, dark-haired woman dressed in royal blue entered the Maldarian senator's office. "Pardon me, Senator Dahlma, but you have a communiqué from Senator Mon Mothma."

Returning her gaze to the data pad in her hand, Senator Dahlma replied, "Upload it into my computer."

The younger woman hesitated. "It's a . . . private communiqué."

Zoebeida glanced up. She noticed the small holoemitter in her aide's open palm. A sigh left her mouth. "I see. Give it to me." The aide, Igraine Colbert, handed the holoemitter over to the senator. "Thank you, Igraine. You may go."

Igraine nodded and left the office. Although the twenty-six year-old aide knew about Zoebeida's activities with the barely formed Rebel Alliance, the senator made sure that she remained ignorant of any details . . . in case the Empire ever learned of Zoebeida's secret activities.

Now alone, the senator placed the holoemitter on her desk and switched it on. Mon Mothma's statuesque figure illuminated above the device. "Greetings Zoebeida," the Chandrilian began. "A special conference will be held at the Hotel Grand in Worlport, on Ord Mantell, to discuss the Alliance's future agenda. Because this is a special meeting, Bail Organa, Garm Iblis and I have decided it would be best not to hold this meeting here on Coruscant. If you plan to participate, please respond to either Bail or myself within the next twenty-four hours. I hope to hear from you soon." The hologram disappeared.

Zoebeida leaned back into her chair and sighed. A special meeting for the Rebel Alliance? In reality, no such alliance really existed. At least not yet. The Maldarian senator had originally been amongst the Delegation of 2000 - a group of senators who had opposed Palpatine's growing power around the end of the Clone Wars. The Delagation had presented a petition to the former Chancellor that demanded he find a peaceful resolution to the war and give up his emergency powers. Instead, a conflict with the Jedi led Palpatine to declare himself emperor and order the destruction of the Jedi Order. Many who had signed the petition ended up either killed, imprisoned or forced into exile. Of course, there were those senators like herself, Organa and Mothma, who managed to elude Palpatine's retribution by removing their names from the petition and continuing their opposition against Palpatine, a secret.

Padme Amidala, along with other senators like Solipo Yeb and Garm Bel Iblis had ended up in exile. Zoebeida recalled that the discovery of a fugitive Jedi Knight on Andalia had led to the Imperial annexation of Solipo's homeworld. And poor Garm had nearly been killed by Palpatine's troops - a fate that his family had failed to avoid - because of the Corellian's past open opposition against the former Chancellor-turned-Emperor. But Zoebeida could not fathom Padme Amidala's reason for evading the Empire. The former Naboo senator had once been Palpatine's protégée. And Naboo's ties to the Empire seemed free of any conflict with its former Emperor - despite the mysterious death of Queen Apiliana, some nine years ago. What exactly had led Amidala to fake her own death?

If this meeting on Ord Mantell proved to be a major one for the Alliance, then it seemed possible that Organa, Mothma and Iblis had finally discovered a way to unite many individual factions and resistance cells now fighting against the Empire. Zoebeida wondered if Amidala and Yeb will be present. Both former senators possessed connections to various resistance cells in the Outer Rim Territories.

Zoebeida finally erased Mothma's message from the holoemitter. Then she replaced it with one of her own: "Greetings Mon. I am more than happy to accept the invitation to attend this conference. Please provide me with the details, so that I can make arrangements. Thank you." She ended the recording and summoned Igraine. The younger woman entered the office and Zoebeida handed over the holoemitter. "Return this to Senator Mothma. And if you're unable to find her, give it to Senator Organa of Alderaan. Make sure that you give it to either one of those two . . . personally."

"Yes, Senator Dahlma," the pretty young woman dutifully replied with a nod, before leaving the office. Zoebeida remained behind her desk and contemplated upon the upcoming conference. Has the day for an organized resistance against the Empire finally arrived? The Maldarian senator sincerely hoped so.

-------

LE YER, ABREGADO-RAE


"Happy Birthday!"

The handsome 21 year-old Corellian broke into a wide grin, as his partner, along with several friends and acquaintances sang to him inside a private room at the Triple Nova Casino. As the singing continued, an attractive, blue-skinned Twi'lek placed a Pyollian cake with 21-lit candles in front of him. Once the singing ceased, everyone broke into applause.

"Congratulations, Han. Today, you are a man." The 33 year-old Anakin Skywalker also grinned, as his younger partner shot him a disbelieving stare. "What did I say?"

Han grumbled, "Nothing." He blew out the candles and more applause followed.

The Twi'let, a fellow pilot and smuggler by the name of Vi'dal Mira, leaned down to plant a light kiss on the Corellian's cheek. "So, what did you wish for?" she asked.

"I believe that my wish had already been granted," Han replied slyly. "About two years ago, on Ord Montell." He shot a meaningful glance at Vi'dal, who smirked.

Anakin understood the meaning behind Han's words. Nearly two years ago, Han had suffered a setback from a serious romance and turned to Vi'dal for one night with the Twi'lek smuggler. Fortunately, nothing serious had evolved from the brief affair. With a straight face and his tongue firmly tucked in his cheek, Anakin commented, "Was that the extent of your birthday wish? Vi'dal?"

Han nearly snickered out loud. Vi'dal glared at the wide-eyed Anakin. "And what did you mean by that, Captain Horus? Don't you feel that one night with me would make a worthy birthday wish?" Set Horus happened to be the name that Anakin used as an alias to avoid Imperial detection.

"Well . . ." Anakin began, as he allowed his eyes to sweep appreciatively over the Twi'lek's voluptuous figure. ". . . I have yet to experience such a night to make that kind of judgment."

Vi'dal eased next to Anakin with hands on her hips. "I would be happy to make arrangements for such an experience. Believe me, you will not be unsatisfied."

"My birthday had passed two months ago."

"Irrevelant."

Anakin allowed one of his brows to arch. "I beg your pardon?"

Vi'dal continued in a seductive voice, "I don't care whether it's your birthday or not. Why should you?"

Both the human and the Twi'lek regarded each other for what seemed like a very long moment to Anakin. He almost sensed an electrical charge between himself and the female smuggler. Aside from his brief period as a Sith Lord, Anakin has always tried to be honest regarding his personal character. He could not deny his attraction toward the beautiful Vi'dal. But he found it difficult to become romantically involved with other females - despite being a widower for the past eleven years. The memory of Padme and what he had done to her became a stumbling block to any possible relationship with another woman - whether serious or not.

Anakin inhaled deeply and gave Vi'dal his most charming smile. "To be honest, I don't . . ." He paused briefly. Then, "How about another time? When the time is right?"

Disappointment flashed briefly in Vi'dal's large brown eyes before she returned his smile. "I look forward to that moment, Set Horus."

"If you find it hard to wait for Set," a fourth voice began, "there's always me." Anakin suppressed an urge to roll his eyes in disgust. The voice belonged to Mako Spence, a fellow smuggler from Corellia.

Vi'dal shot a contemptuous glance at the handsome, bearded pilot. "I'm not that desperate," she retorted bitingly. "If you're longing for company tonight, I suggest that you pay a visit to the Blue Orchid. I'm sure that Umekei Sun would be more than happy to see you." Vi'dal spoke of Mako's regular patronage of the spaceport's most prosperous pleasure house. The older Corellian's face turned scarlet.

Anakin smirked at Mako's discomfort. He never really liked the Corellian. Nor did he see any reason to pretend otherwise and be a hypocrite. Besides, even Han - who happened to be friends with Mako - smirked. "Anyone for a piece of cake?" the younger Corellian asked. "I'm starved."

--------

Nearly a half hour later, the two partners strolled out of the private room and made their way across the casino's floor. "Not a bad haul, huh?" Han indicated the bag filled with birthday presents. "Even Bascko gave me power converters. And I didn't think that he liked me."

"Of course he does," Anakin reassured the younger man. Bascko likes those who don't bother to agree to everything he says." Bascko happened to be a local merchant and a Verpine from the Roche asteroid belt. Both Han and Anakin were amongst his regular clients.

A brief silence followed before Han surreptiously added, "Are you referring to Mako?"

Contempt flickered in Anakin's blue eyes. "I don't recall Bascko ever giving him a birthday present."

Han remained silent. He viewed Mako Spince as a very close friend. Scion of a prominent senator from Corellia, Mako had ended up expelled from the Imperial Academy due to a dangerous prank he had pulled. Disgraced and estranged from his family, Mako used his trust fund and a few connections from the Academy to become a smuggler. With Mako, Han had someone with whom he could enjoy nights at popular establishments like the Triple Nova Casino. Anakin might be a brother and mentor to him, but the former Jedi had never developed the habit of frequenting the galaxy's many pleasure spots on a regular basis. And although Anakin had never protested against his friendship with Mako, his partner never did warm up to the older Corellian.

In an attempt to change the subject, Han asked, "Why didn't you take up Vi'dal's offer?"

"What?" Anakin looked startled by Han's sudden change of the subject.

"Vi'dal," Han repeated. "Why didn't you take up her offer? She likes you. And you obviously like her."

One of Anakin's brows arched. "Obviously?"

Han rolled his eyes. "I'm not blind, Anakin. I saw the way you two were staring at each other, tonight. I mean . . . why deny yourself?"

A long, suffering sigh left Anakin's mouth. "Look, I'm just not that interested in Vi'dal . . . in that way. Yes, she's a beautiful woman, but I only think of her as a friend. Nothing else."

"Uh-huh." The two men passed one of the gaming tables, where they spotted a Rodian yelling with glee. Han added, "So, what you're trying to tell me is that your devotion to your old hokey religion has nothing to do with this decision to act like a monk."

Anakin shot a dark look at the younger man. "Since when did my Jedi beliefs become a hokey religion? Since Ylesia, two years ago?"

The mention of Ylesia brought back painful memories for Han. While Anakin was on Dantooine for a retreat, two years ago, Han did a private smuggling job for the Tatooine gangster, Jabba the Hutt that led him to a tropical planet called Ylesia. There, he discovered that a fellow Corellian had escaped an arranged engagement to join a religious cult operated by the Besadii clan. Han promptly fell in love with the beautiful, red-haired Bria Tharen. After exposing the Besadii's cult as a hoax to Bria, he helped her escape Ylesia with guns blazing and a sack full of precious antiquities that belonged to one of the cult's high priests. The pair eventually made their way to Coruscant via stops at Corellia and Togoria. There, Bria eventually abandoned the love-struck Han, before the latter eventually made his way to Dantooine . . . and Anakin.

"My trip to Ylesia has nothing to do with my opinion of your old order," Han firmly retorted. He added in a mumbling voice, "I've just never been the religious type. That's all." Then his voice reasserted itself. "Besides, I only wanted to know why you won't consider the time of day with Vi . . ."

Anakin interrupted, "Because I'm not ready for another relationship, Han. At least one with the opposite sex. And I don't thin I'll ever be. I'm j . . ." He sighed, as a faraway look gleamed in his eyes. "Maybe I'm not one for casual relationships."

It never ceased to amaze Han that despite being a good twelve years younger than Anakin, his experience with women has been more extensive. "Okay," the Corellian said, "I can accept . . ." Han broke off, as a third figure rushed toward the pair.

"Han! Set!" Mako Spince halted before the two men, breathing heavily. The casino's fluorescent lights highlighted his light-brown hair. "I need to speak to both of you."

Han shrugged his shoulders. "So speak."

"Not here." Mako glanced around the casino, as if expecting to be overheard by an eavesdropper. "Outside." He led the two partners outside, until he halted next to a marble balustrade that overlooked a wide, blue canal filled with boats of all kinds. Le Yer boasted a series of water canals that made the entire city very popular with tourists and other visitors.

Anakin brusquely added, "Okay, we're alone. What do you want?"

Mako took a deep breath. "I have a business proposition. This business . . ." He paused dramatically. "Actually, he's a Quarren named Sekka Verdu. It turns out that he's a . . . representative of Garulla the Hutt and he needs pilots to fly a large shipment of Glitterstim from Kessel to Maldore."

"Glitterstim?" Anakin frowned.

An exasperated sigh left Mako's mouth. "C'mon Horus! Don't tell me that a successful smuggler like you has something against shipping spice! Haven't you done it before?"

"Of course I have!" Anakin retorted. "But you're talking about the Kessel Run! It's heavily patrolled by Imperial ships and the Empire has grown less tolerant of spice during the last few years."

Mako nodded. "I understand. That's what I had said to Verdu. But we're talking about a large shipment of spice worth at least two million credits. Verdu is willing to pay one hundred thousand credits to fly it to Maldore. That's fifty thousand for me and fifty thousand for the both of you."

Han frowned at his friend. He and Anakin would have to split one-half of the fee? Not if he could help it. "Why can't we split the one hundred thousand in three ways?" he demanded.

"Because three starships won't be involved," Mako coolly replied. "Fifty thousand per ship. It's only fair. I would have made the run myself, but my cargo hold isn't big enough for the entire shipment. I need another starship to conclude the deal."

Han saw the word "no" form on Anakin's lips. Fifty thousand credits would greatly make up for the money they had recently spent on repairs for the Javian Hawk. "Just a minute," he said, taking Anakin by surprise. "Uh . . . Set and me need to discuss this." He drew the older man aside.

"You're not serious about this, are you?" Anakin immediately demanded in a low voice.

Han shot back under his breath, "C'mon Anakin! We need the money. Those repairs for the Hawk took a lot out of our account. Besides, what do you have against this deal?"

"Simple. It was proposed by Mako. He's part of the deal."

The younger man shot back, "Look, I realize that you don't like the guy - why, I don't know - but this is a sweet deal. And Mako hasn't done nothing . . ."

"Anything," Anakin immediately corrected.

With a sigh, Han re-phrased his last word. “Like I said, he hasn’t done anything to give us a reason to distrust him.” He paused. “Unless you know something . . .”

“No, I didn’t,” Anakin snapped. Looking defeated, he shook his head. “I know I’m going to regret this, but okay. I’m willing to accept Spince’s offer.”

Relief filled Han’s mind. “Great!” he crowed. Then he returned to mako. “We’ll do it. As for the fee . . . that hundred thousand credits have to be divided three ways. We’ll all be taking the risk, no matter how many ships are involved.”

Mako looked slightly taken aback. “Wait a minute. I mean . . . I’m the one had approached you about this deal. I think . . .”

“Take it or leave it,” Han insisted. “Or find a new partner.”

The older Corellian sighed. Han deduced from that sigh that Mako had been unable to find another pilot to accompany him on this venture. “All right. We’ll split the money three ways. By the way, I suggest that we all leave for Kessel, tomorrow morning.”

“See you tomorrow, then.” Han watched his friend walk back into the casino. Then he approached Anakin. “The deal is on.”

Doubt flickered in the older man’s eyes. “I only hope that we won’t end up regretting this.”


END OF CHAPTER ONE

[sharyntyre]

Brilliant! Glad to see your writings back up here again!

I envy your catchy titles too :wink:

Seriously, your pieces are on the short list of Fanfics I recommend to all my fellow SW fans.

[Jedi Master 2k5]

SWEET!!!!

[Fish1941]

"CROSSROADS OF THE FORCE"


CHAPTER TWO


OUTSKIRTS OF SALIS D'AAR, BAKURA


Inside Padme Amidala Skywalker's well-decorated study, the holographic image of Bail Organa illuminated from a small holoemitter on her desk. "The conference will be held on Ord Montell. We hope that you will be able to attend."

"Ord Mantell?" Padme inhaled sharply at the mention of the planet. "That sounds like a military post."

Bail's image shrugged. "It used to be during the Clone Wars. Now, it is basically a haven for smugglers and traders. Mon, Garm and I believe it should be safe from Imperial scrutiny."

Padme continued, "But the reason for this conference . . . why?"

The Alderaanian sighed. "Because we feel that the time has arrived for the Alliance to finally organize. It's time, Padme. You had even said so, yourself during your last visit to Alderaan."

Following her flight from Bail's homeworld ten years ago, Padme and her young family had ended up at the Lars' moisture farm on Tatooine. Owen and Beru Lars gave the Skywalker-Nabierre family refuge until Bail found a permanent home for the latter on Bakura, three months later. She and the children eventually settled in a three-story villa located in the outskirts of Bakura's capital, Salis D'Aar. The villa, which reminded her of the one she and Anakin had visited on Varykino Island, fourteen years ago. Instead of a lake, her present home stood above the banks of the West River.

The Outer Rim planet proved to be a pleasant home for Padme and her family. It was far enough to avoid the Empire's attention. Although it did not seem as sophisticated as Naboo or Alderaan, it did boast a fine culture that included a national symphony and several beautiful cities - including the capital, Salis D'Aar. Padme only had one complaint about Bakura - the feud between the planet's upper class and political body that threatened to develop into a civil war. She feared that if it grew any worse, the Empire might intervene. Bakura's pastoral climate gave Luke and Leia the opportunity to develop into healthy and lively eleven year-olds. And the planet's isolation gave Padme the opportunity to form contacts with various cells rebelling against the Empire, in neighboring systems.

"Yes, I know Bail," Padme continued. "But Ord Mantell? Why not the Averam System?"

Bail shook his head. "Not safe enough. It is too close to Coruscant. And the Empire has kept a close eye upon it in recent years."

Padme sighed. "All right. When do we meet?"

"A week from now," Bail replied. "At the Hotel Grand in Le Yer." He hesitated. "If you don't mind, Padme, I feel it would be best if I escort you to the conference. We can rendezvous . . . somewhere other than Bakura."

An idea came to Padme. "Why not Tatooine? And perhaps the children, Madga and the droids can stay with Owen and Beru. Perhaps we can meet in . . . five days?"

Bail nodded. "Sounds like an excellent idea. I will see you in five days." His holographic image disappeared. Padme switched off her emitter.

The 38 year-old senator rose to her feet and made her way to the villa's garden. There, she found the twins engaged in some kind of art project. "What is this?" she asked merrily. "A new project?"

"Sort of," the blond-haired Luke replied. "It's a present for Madga's birthday. A holographic statue of one of Alderaan's famous animals, the Thranta." It amazed Padme how much her son reminded her of Anakin from twenty-four years ago - the same dark-blond hair, lively blue eyes and engaging manner. Only Luke seemed to have inherited her more introverted temper.

Padme smiled at her children. "That's quite lovely, Luke. I'm sure that Madga would appreciate it." In fact, Padme suspected that the Alderaanian-born nurse would adore the present. Although Madga had eagerly volunteered to accompany the Skywalkers to Tatooine and Bakura, her first ten months away from Alderaan had been lonely. Madga did not meet any new friends until a week after the Skywalkers' arrival on Bakura.

"She would appreciate it if Luke only had the right coordinates in the program," Leia caustically added.

Luke glared at his twin sister. "What do you mean? I'm using the right coordinates."

Leia shot back, "No, you're not! If you turn on the holoemitter, you won't have the image of the Thranta. You'll just have some animal that doesn't exist!"

Padme winced inwardly at her daughter's sharp tone. The eleven year-old Leia almost seemed like a copy of her younger self - same dark hair, large brown eyes, and the same pragmatic and reserved nature. Yet, Leia had also inherited her father's sharp manner and quick temper. In a deeper way, the young girl could easily be described as her father's child.

"How would you know?" Luke demanded. "We haven't finished."

"Uh . . . children," Padme said, cautiously interrupting. "I need to . . ." But the twins ignored her and continued their quarrel. Padme decided to utilize more force. "Enough!" she finally cried, drawing stares from the twins. "That's enough! You two can fight, later. I have something to tell you." She glanced around the garden. "Where are Madga and the droids? Never mind. I'll tell them later."

Leia frowned. "Tell them what?"

Padme took a deep breath. "I will be going away for a few days. It's regarding an important business matter. Since this is the first time we will be separated, I feel it would be best if I left you two with your Uncle Owen and Aunt Beru on Tatooine."

Luke whooped with joy. "Great! I'll get to see Biggs!"

"Oh no!" Leia bewailed. "Mother! Not Tatooine!"

"What's wrong with Tatooine?" Luke demanded.

Leia rolled her eyes. "Oh come on, Luke! It's boring. Even you think so."

"Maybe. But at least I'll get to see Biggs." During one of their many trips to Tatooine over the past decade, Luke had managed to befriend the young son of a local moisture farmer named Darkstar. Leia's closest friend happened to be the late Sheltay Retrac's only child, an Alderaanian girl named Winter.

The young girl retorted, "Great! And what about me? Winter lives on Alderaan. And I don't know anyone on Tatooine. Except for Aunt Beru. And she's . . ." She broke off, as her eyes widened in horror. "I didn't mean . . ."

Padme sighed. "I understand, Leia. I don't expect an eleven year-old girl to become close friends with the wife of a moisture farmer. But you must also remember that Luke has never been that comfortable on Alderaan. And I feel that it would best if you two stay on Tatooine. It is farther from . . ."

". . . the Emperor," Leia finished. "Yeah, I know." She sighed. "How long are we going to be there?"

Casting a sympathetic glance at her daughter, Padme answered, "At least four or five days. I'm certain that you will find a way to endure."

Luke snickered, earning a glare from his sister.

"Well, I best find Madga and the droids," Padme continued. "And you two can continue your . . . project." She added pointedly, "Without fighting." Then Padme turned away and began searching for her servants.


-----------


OFFICE OF THE GRAND VIZER, CORUSCANT

"They're all here."

The Senate's Grand Vizer nodded. "Show them in," he ordered his aide. Of medium height, Sate Pestage was a thin, craggy-faced human with an aquiline nose that has caught the attention of many upon introduction.

Pestage had served as the leader or Grand Vizer of the Imperial Senate upon Senator Mas Amedda's "mysterious disapperance", nine years ago. The Nabooan had originally served as Palpatine's aide from the moment the latter first became involved in politics as a minor functionary on Naboo. He sat behind his imposing desk, while five other senators filed into his office. They quickly occupied the chairs situated in a semi-circle in front of Pestage's desk. "Good afternoon, everyone," he greeted quietly.

"Your Excellency," one of the senators replied. "It was Senator Ronet Coorr of Iseno. "What can we do for you?"

Pestage cleared his throat before he continued, "Pardon me for interrupting your plans to depart for your homeworlds, senators. I realize that the Senate is no longer in session, but I have something to ask of you. Naturally, you have heard of the disaster that had befallen Volmtrak? The Accom River flood?" He noticed the vague expressions on the senators' faces.

"I'm not sure if I've ever heard of the Volmtrak System," Senator Paddie of Semeria declared.

With a patient smile, Pestage explained, "Volmtrak is a moon. Volmtagge's moon to be exact. And Volmtagge is located in the Velm Sector. Which I believe is where your homeworlds are located, ladies and gentlemen. Or located nearby."

Zoebeida Dahlma of Maldare heaved an impatient sigh. “Pardon me, Your Excellency, but please get to the point. We all have busy schedules.” The other senators murmured in agreement.

Pestage leaned back into his chair and grunted. “Yes. Well . . . if you must know, the Emperor believes that a committee should be formed to coordinate aid for the Volmtrak disaster.” The Grand Vizer reveled in his visitors’ astounded expressions. Apparently, they seemed surprised that the Emperor would even consider such an act. Fortunately, they did not know about Palpatine’s true object behind this act of mercy. “Is there a problem? You all seem . . . surprised.”

“Pardon our reaction, Your Excellency,” Paddie commented, “but this is the first time I have ever heard of the Empire organizing relief for a disaster. Is there a reason why Volmtrak is so important to him?”

Mustering every ounce of guile he possessed, Pestage lied. “It is just as you had hinted, Senator. The Emperor has spent the last decade trying to bring order throughout the galaxy – dealing with the last remnants of the Separatist movement and tracking down renegade Jedi. We . . . I mean, the Emperor has been regrettably amiss in dealing with other calamities faced by the galaxy’s citizens. The Emperor believes that it is time for him to face these calamities . . . starting with Volmtrak. He would appreciate it if the five of you would form a committee, visit the disaster area and organize relief for Volmtrak’s citizens.”

“I would be more than happy to accommodate the Emperor’s wishes,” Senator Coorr said. Pestage smiled at the tall and very pale human. Coorr had been a loyal supporter of Palpatine since joining the Senate before the start of the Clone Wars.

Pestage smiled at his eager colleague. “Thank you, Senator Coorr.” He faced the other four senators. “And the rest of you?”

One by one, Paddie and two other senators followed Coorr’s example. Only one abstained – Senator Dahlma of Maldare. “When does the Emperor want us to visit Volmtrak?” she demanded.

Slowly, Pestage turned his head to stare at Maldare’s premier senator. “In two days. Is there a problem?”

“I’m afraid so,” Dahlma replied. “My cousin has recently passed away. And I plan to attend the funeral.”

Typical, Pestage thought. Zoebeida Dahlma had never been a fervent supporter of the Emperor. Her name had even been on that treacherous Petition of 2000 for a brief period around the end of the Clone Wars. Why the Emperor had not driven her from the Senate or eliminate her, Pestage did not know. “I don’t understand,” the Grand Vizer said with a frown. “You would choose to attend some distant relative’s funeral over service for the Emperor?”

Senator Dahlma stiffened slightly. “My cousin and I had been very close,” she coolly retorted. “It would be a disservice to her memory for me to choose politics over a beloved relative.”

Pestage became immediately contrite. “Pardon me, Senator Dahlma. I did not mean to be insensitive.”

“And pardon me for my . . . flash of temper,” the Maldarian senator responded in a gracious tone. “But you must understand that I come from a close knit family. However, I will be more than happy to visit Volmstak upon my return. While I’m home, I might be able to convince the Lalji Corporation to donate aid to the Volmstak victims.”

Senator Paddie commented, “That sounds like an excellent idea.”

But Pestage did not hear the Semerian senator. He felt disturbed by Senator Dahlma’s refusal of the Emperor’s request. But since the Maldarian senator had offered to join the committee at a later time and raise funds, he decided that he could be magnanimous. “I suppose that will do,” he coolly replied. Then he gave Dahlma a wide smile. “Welcome to the Volmstak Relief Committee, Senator!”

Dahlma returned the Nabooan’s smile. While the Grand Vizer continued to discuss the disaster with the five senators, he wondered how the Emperor would respond.

--------

IMPERIAL PALACE, CORUSCANT


“How interesting,” the Emperor Palpatine coolly remarked. “I have never known for Senator Dahlma to ignore offering aid to disaster victims. You say that there has been a death in her family?”

Pestage shifted uncomfortably from one foot to the other. “According to Senator Dahlma, a favorite cousin. They were very close.”

“Really?” Palpatine turned his chair away from the Senate’s leader. His gaze focused upon a Sith artifact situated on a small pedestal, behind his desk. “I do not recall Senator Dahlma being close to any particular member of her family. In fact, I could have sworn that she was estranged from her family, due to some financial conflict. So . . . she has refused to serve on the committee?”

After a brief interruption, Pestage replied, “No, she did not, Your Highness. Instead, she has volunteered to visit Volmtak . . . after attending her cousin’s funeral. And she plans to request aid from the Lalji Corporation.”

“How generous of her,” Palpatine murmured. “Well . . . thank you for your report, Pestage.” The Grand Vizer bowed and left the Imperial office.

Palpatine’s gaze returned to the Sith artifact, when another figure entered. “Have a seat, Lord Rasche.”

The Emperor swerved his chair around for the second time to see his apprentice sit down in the chair previously occupied by Sate Pestage. “Master,” the Sith apprentice greeted. “How may I help you?”

“I would like you to arrange for an inquisitor to accompany a group of senators to the Volmtagge System.” Palpatine hesitated. “There are a few . . . objects that I want him to find. I will provide all the information he needs to know.”

Rasche nodded. “Yes, my Master.”

How very polite, Palpatine thought. And very distant. The Sith Lord knew that his young apprentice did not harbor an ounce of regard for him – as it should be. But during their eleven year association, Darth Rasche has yet to make a move to become the new Sith Master. Lack of ambition? Or simply patient? Palpatine immediately dismissed both suggestions. Before becoming his apprentice, Rasche – formerly Romulus Wort – had been an ambitious, yet slightly impatient Jedi Knight. At least, according to Anakin Skywalker.

“By the way, did you overhear my conversation with the Grand Vizer Pestage?”

A slight, bored expression flitted across Rasche’s face. “Yes, I did. Why is the Volmstak flood so important to you?”

Palpatine leaned back into his chair. “There is a cache of Sith artifacts that had been stored on the Vomstak moon. Placed there by Darth Bane over a thousand years ago. When the Jedi were hunting down the Sith after the Great Sith War. I had just learned of their location not long ago. However, the agent who had reported the discovery has disappeared. Possibly a victim of the flood. I want to ensure that the artifacts can be saved.” He paused dramatically. “And sent to me.”

Rasche rolled his eyes. “And you had summoned me to your office to discuss sending an inquisitor to recover this cache? Why not just send me?”

There were times when Palpatine wondered why he has put up with Rasche’s insolence. Vader had never been . . . although Palpatine had sensed mild disapproval and dislike from his former apprentice. He never knew if he could trust Tyrannus – despite their thirteen year association. Only Maul had been eager to obey him. Which probably would have made the Zabrak a poor Sith Master.

“No,” the Emperor barked. “I have already created a committee to oversee the flood victims. I want an inquisitor to accompany them and ensure the discovery of that cache. No, I now have something else to discuss with you. I have recently sensed something afoot regarding Senator Dahlma of Maldare. Which is why I had requested that she serve on the Volmstak Relief Committee. She has rejected my request, claiming that she has a family funeral to attend. The funeral of a close cousin.”

Rasche’s dark eyes narrowed dangerously. “And you believe that she’s lying.”

“I happen to know that Zoebeida Dahlma has been estranged from her entire family for years,” Palpatine explained. “Ever since her initial support of the Petition of 2000, during the last days of the Clone Wars. Her family has been ardent supporters of my chancellorship and of the Empire. I am curious about this cousin of hers. I would like you to send an inquisitor to investigate. Find out if this cousin of hers exists.”

After a long pause, Rasche asked, “And if this cousin does not exist?”

“Find out what the good senator is really up to. And deal with the matter.” A cruel smile touched Palpatine’s thin lips. “With your usual efficiency.”


END OF CHAPTER TWO

[wedge]

This is good my friend can't wait for the next installment!!!!

[Fish1941]

CHAPTER THREE


CORUSCANT


The petite Igraine Colbert entered Senator Dahlma's suite with data pad in hand. She found her employer in the middle of packing a valise. "The last transport to Ord Montell had left twelve hours ago," she reported. "And another is not scheduled for departure until another two days. I'm sorry, Milady."

Zoebeida Dahlma heaved a sigh. "Wonderful. I suppose I might as well hire private transportation to the planet."

"I don't think that would be a good idea," Igraine continued. The senator stared at her. "Don't forget . . . you had informed the Grand Vizer of your intent to return home to Maldore. Perhaps you should find transport for there and then hire a pilot to take you to Ord Mantell. That way, you will not have to worry about Imperial spies."

Shaking her head, Senator Dahlma commented, "I would have never thought of that. I knew there was a reason I had made you my aide. Good thinking, Igraine."

The compliment sent a shaft of warmth throughout the young Maldarian's body. For the umpteenth time in her life, she privately thanked her uncle for arranging her to become Zoebeida Dahlma's aide. Harboring political ambitions for years, Igraine gave up the prospects of becoming Vin Roudet's wife when the position of Senator Dahlma's aide became available. A shared interest in the galaxy's political situation and a distrust of the Empire and the Emperor had drawn the two women into a close friendship.

"Shall I book passage for you to Maldore?" Igraine asked.

The older woman nodded. "As soon as possible. I want to leave by tonight. And you need to pack, as well. You're coming with me."

The news took Igraine by surprise. The senator had rarely allowed her to experience or learn about the former's activities against the Empire. "Yes, Milady," she replied breathlessly. "Right away." And she left he senator's chamber, thrilled by the prospect of a little adventure.

---------

MOS EISLEY, TATOOINE

"Stop pouting, Leia!" Padme ordered her daughter. "It's unbecoming for a young lady, such as yourself."

The eleven year-old girl retorted, "What did you expect, Mother? I'm going to be stuck here on Tatooine for nearly a week."

The Skywalker party had just arrived at Tatooine's largest city, Mos Eisley. Upon their arrival, Padme had booked her family into two rooms at a local inn. Luke accepted their arrival with his usual stoicism. Leia, on the other hand, raised a fuss.

"If you continue to maintain that attitude, young lady, you will end up insulting both Owen and Beru," Padme lectured. "They were kind enough to allow you to stay at their farm, while I'm gone. I suggest that you show some gratitude."

Leia muttered a comment under her breath before she murmured, "Yes, Mother."

"Personally, I do not blame Miss Leia," C3-P0 added in his usual direful manner. "I do not care to be here, either."

Padme sighed. "Threepio, if this is about my decision to take Artoo with me and leave you here . . ."

"Oh no, Milady!" the droid protested. "I perfectly understand why you need Artoo to join you. He would be most helpful."

Suspicion nibbled at the back of Padme's mind. "Thank you, Threepio," she said cautiously.

"As for me," the golden droid continued, "I will simply endure staying on the Lars' farm in my usual efficient manner. I have done it before, when Miss Shmi had married Master Cliegg and I will do so, again. After all, we droids are made to suffer."

Padme slowly turned to stare at the protocol droid. Made to suffer? Since when did droids learn to utilize the guilt trip against their owners? "Threepio, if there will be a problem . . ."

"Oh no, Milady! Please! Just ignore me."

Rolling her eyes, Padme decided it would be best to accept the droid's advice. She turned away from Threepio and the children and headed toward one of the windows. On the street below, two men draped in hoods, strode toward the inn's entrance. Padme immediately recognized the taller man. Bail Organa. His broad shoulders and walk seemed unmistakable. However, Padme wondered about the identity of Bail's companion.

"Magda, look after the children," Padme said to the nursemaid. "I will be downstairs, if you need me." After grabbing her cloak, she rushed out of the room.

Seconds later, Padme reached the inn's lobby and found Bail and his companion speaking to the innkeeper. "Her name is Yane Rivaaj," Bail declared. "She has either checked in today, or yesterday. With two children and . . ."

"I had checked in, yesterday," Padme announced. The two men whirled around in surprise. Before Bail could open his mouth, Padme greeted him with open arms. "Dear cousin! You've finally made it."

With an understanding nod, Bail enveloped Padme into a bear hug. "Cousin Yane. I wondered if I would have to wait for you. How are you?"

"Perfectly well," a smiling Padme replied. She turned to the innkeeper. "Is there a place where we can talk privately?" The innkeeper led all three to an unoccupied loggia filled with tables and chairs. It overlooked the wide street, beyond. Once seated, Padme said to the Alderaanian, "Bail, why don't you introduce me to your friend?"

The other man threw back his hood, revealing a handsome and aristocratic face with a long, aquiline nose, light-brown hair and beard, and pale blue eyes. His thin lips formed a slight smile. "My name is Ferus Olin. I'm Senator Organa's body . . ." His smile disappeared, as his eyes widened in surprise. "Good heavens! You look like . . . aren't you Senator Padme Amidala? Of Naboo? You're supposed to be dead."

"Sorry to disappoint you, Mister O . . ." Padme frowned. "Wait a minute. Did you say . . . Ferus Olin? Your name sounds very familiar."

Mister Olin blushed, while Bail explained, "Mister Olin used to be a Jedi. He had been apprenticed to . . ."

"Of course!" Padme exclaimed. "No wonder I have heard of your name, before! From . . ." She paused. No need for her to connect Anakin to herself. "I mean . . . uh . . ."

The former Jedi regarded her with curious eyes. "Pardon Milady, but from whom?"

Padme took a deep breath. "Master Obi-Wan Kenobi. I have . . . had . . . several dealings with him, over the years. I first met him when he was still padawan to Master Qui-Gon Jinn and I was Queen of Naboo. During the crisis with the Trade Federation."

"Of course."

Bail added, "And do not forget Master Siri Taschi. Ferus used to be her apprentice, before he left the Order."

"Oh yes," Padme added softly. "I remember Master Taschi." Memories of the fair-haired Jedi Knight that had saved her life, rushed back to her. "Her death was a tragedy to us all."

Ferus Olin nodded. "At least she is now with the Force. At peace."

"Of course."

Bail continued, "Ferus used to be part of a resistance cell on Acherin. Unfortunately . . ." His voice faded away, as he shot a look of pity at the former padawan.

"Unfortunately, the cell has dissolved and most of them are dead," Ferus added gravely. "Killed by the Empire. I am one of two or three survivors."

Padme murmured, "I'm so sorry."

Once more, Bail explained, "Ferus had eventually made his way to Alderaan and joined the other Jedi refugees on the planet. Captain Antilles became aware of his presence and recommended that he act as my bodyguard on this trip. I thought that we both could use Master Olin's services."

Padme stared at the two men. "Do you really feel that we will need a bodyguard?" she asked.

A fourth figure appeared by Padme's side. He threw back his hood. "It would not hurt to have one, Milady," Obi-Wan Kenobi replied.

-----------

[Fish1941]

VELM SYSTEM

The commission to smuggle glitterstim to Maldore seemed to be obstacle-free. Both the Javian Hawk and the Alastian Star - Mako Spince's ship - had arrived on Kessel with no problems. The three smugglers collected their cargo of stim. Mako paid off Sekka Verdu's contact and both ships departed for Maldore.

"So far, so good," Han commented inside the Hawk's cockpit.

Anakin retorted, "Don't say that!"

"Don't say what?"

"Don't be so . . . optimistic about this trip." Anakin paused. "It makes you sound so complacent. And that's not a good thing."

Han heaved a long-suffering sigh. "Okay, okay. Geez!"

Silence fell between the two men. Then Han ruined it by adding, "But you've got to admit that we've been in the Velm System for over twelve hours and . . ."

"Han!"

A faint beep caused both men to glance at the ship's console. Anakin's stomach turned, when he interpreted the light's meaning - the presence of a nearby Imperial warship. "That's just great," he muttered. "The Imperials."

"We can outrun them!" Han insisted.

Anakin sardonically replied, "Sure we can. And they'll report the whole incident and track us down to Maldore."

Han sighed. "Then what . . .?" The Hawk shuddered momentarily. "I think we've just been caught in a tractor beam."

Mako's voice boomed from the Hawk's comlink system. "Uh guys, looks like we've got visitors. Looks like an Imperial cruiser. Hang on. I'll talk to them."

The suggestion did not ease Anakin's anxieties. "Wait a minute, Mako. Maybe I should do it. I'm familiar . . ."

"Don't worry," the older Corellian exclaimed. "I'm an old Academy man. Trust me. I know how to deal with these guys."

However, Anakin did not feel ready to put his life in Mako's hands. "Look Mako, I really think I should . . ."

Unfortunately, another interrupted before the former Jedi could finish. "This is Captain Skafte of the Dreadnought. Prepare to be boarded."

Han shot a worried look at Anakin. "What do we do?"

Anakin sighed. "Just like the man said - prepare to be boarded. And hope that Spince knows exactly what he's doing." The two men sat in helpless silence, as the Imperial cruiser tractor both the Javian Hawk and the Alastian Star.

-----

MOS EISLEY, TATOOINE

Padme stared at the former Jedi Master in disbelief. "What are you doing here?"

Obi-Wan gathered his robes and sat down next to Ferus Olin. "I was here in Mos Eisley, purchasing parts for my power calibrator, when I . . . sensed Ferus' presence. However, I had no idea that you would be here." He coolly directed his gaze at Padme. "I'm surprised to find you here on Tatooine, Milady. Why are you here?"

After a brief hesitation, Padme replied, "Bail and I are on our way to an important conference. I'm here to deliver the children to Owen and Beru. I felt that it would be safer for them here on Tatooine than alone . . . with Madga."

"I see." Obi-Wan replied with a nod. Padme allowed herself a closer inspection of the former Jedi and noticed that the last decade had not been kind to him. The lines on his face seemed to have deepened. Whereas his hair only had a few strands of gray the last time she saw him, now it possessed only a few strands of ginger. His blue eyes no longer twinkled. They seemed to have acquired a permanent melancholy air. At age 49 or 50, Obi-Wan looked older than his former master did, twenty-four years ago. And Padme recalled Anakin telling her that Qui-Gon Jinn had been at least 60 years old around the time of his death. Despite their current estrangement, the former senator felt a swell of pity toward Obi-Wan.

The former Jedi Master asked, "What is so important about this conference, anyway?"

Bail allowed himself a dramatic pause before he answered, "Hopefully, the consolidation of an organized alliance against the Empire. Senator Mothma, Garm Bel Iblis and I believe that it is time . . ."

"Senator Iblis is still alive?" Master Olin interrupted, looked shocked. "I thought he and his family had been killed on Anchoron, ten years ago."

"Garm had managed to escape," Bail explained. "He became a fugitive and eventually contacted Senator Mothma and myself. It was he who suggested this conference in the first place. Thanks to Padme, Solipo Yeb and a few others, we have managed to contact many individual resistance cells."

Again, Obi-Wan said, "I see." He turned to his former Jedi colleague. "Ferus, are you taking part in this conference? As a representative of the Nixor resistance cell?"

A touch of sadness crept into the younger Jedi's eyes. "No, I'm acting as bodyguard for Senator Organa . . . and Senator Amidala. The resistance cell on Nixor . . ." He paused as his expression became emotionless. "Actually, I have no idea what happened to the cell. I haven't been a part of it for several years."

Obi-Wan seemed surprised by the news. "Is it possible that they are all dead? What about Roan and Trevor?"

Olin sighed. "As far as I know, they're both alive. I think. I'm not certain, for I have not heard from them in several years. We . . . went our separate ways."

Frowning, Obi-Wan shook his head. "What do mean . . . you went your separate ways?"

The younger Jedi's face now resembled a mask. "Like I said, we went our separate ways. I ended up on Alderaan, where I met Senator Organa."

The discussion between the two Jedi left Padme thinking about Anakin. Determined not to wallow in her own loneliness, she brusquely interrupted. "I do not mean to be rude, but I believe it is time that we leave for the Lars Homestead. We have a long journey ahead of us."

The three men quietly agreed. Then Obi-Wan asked if he could join them on the brief journey to the edge of the Jundland Wastes. "You could take me as far as Anchorhead. I had left my speeder there, which will convey . . . home." He grimaced, as he said the last word. Padme recalled that Obi-Wan had converted some cave hovel in the Jundland Wastes, into his home.

"I'm sure that would be no problem," Bail replied. "Right Padme?"

She noticed the unease in her former colleague's eyes. "Of course not," Padme murmured politely. Privately, she wondered why the Alderaan prince had pleaded for her permission. Especially since the ship probably belonged to him. She stood up and the three men did the same. "Excuse me, gentlemen. I need to make preparations for the trip." She turned to Bail. "What time do you plan to leave?"

Bail replied, "Hopefully less than three hours from now."

"I shall be ready by then."

Exactly three hours later, Padme and her family followed Bail to one of the private hangars at Mos Eisley's spaceport. To her surprise, Bail's personal starship was not parked inside. Instead, she found the starship of none other than Voranda Sen - the woman who had flown her family from Alderaan to Tatooine. The two women greeted each other happily before Sen's ship, the Alberforce, departed Mos Eisley for the Tatooine desert.

END OF CHAPTER THREE

[Fish1941]

"CROSSROADS OF THE FORCE"

CHAPTER FOUR


THE VELM SYSTEM

Han and Anakin stood near the Javian Hawk's boarding ramp, while they observed Mako converse with the Dreadnought's captain. Both the Hawk and Mako's ship, the Alastian Star, stood inside the Imperial cruiser's shuttle bay, surrounded by stormtroopers. Han glanced at his partner's face. Despite Anakin's stoic expression, the young Corellian could sense the older man's unease.

"Don't worry," Han whispered. "Mako seems to know what he's doing. He probably knows this guy from the Imperial Academy or something. They seem a little friendly."

Anakin muttered back, "I hope so, for our own sake. Because if this Captain Skafte insists upon inspecting our cargo, be prepared to run for it." A sharp sigh escaped from his mouth. "I should have stayed aboard the Hawk. We both should."

Han could not help but privately agree. It worried him that an Imperial ship had finally been able to catch them after ten years of smuggling. Perhaps Anakin had a right to complain about Mako's route to Maldore. He stole another glance at the older man. Anakin's expression now looked intense. The former Jedi seemed to be concentrating on Mako and Captain Skafte. "I wonder what they're talking about," Anakin commented in a dark tone. "Do you really think Spince will be able to convince the captain to let us go?"

With a shrug, Han replied, "I don't know. Like I said, they seem to be a little friendly with each other.

"Right now, I don't sense anything amiss," Anakin continued. "But the moment I give the signal that something's wrong, get aboard the Hawk as soon as possible. And start shooting at anyone who moves."

Han saw a flaw in Anakin's desperate plan. "Shouldn't I at least wait for Mako to board his ship?"

Anakin shot a dark glance at Han. "Why bother? You honestly think he would make it in time?"

Slowly, Han turned to stare at his partner. Was Anakin actually willing to sacrifice Mako in order to escape from the Imperials? Before he could comment, his eyes fell upon a handcuffed Wookie entering the shuttle bay with flanking stormtroopers. "What's he doing here?" Han whispered.

"Who?"

"The Wookie!" Han indicated the newcomer with a nod of his head. "Looks like he's a prisoner."

Anakin mumbled, "I'm not surprised. After Kashyyyk, the Imperials have been using captured Wookies as slaves."

"Slaves!" Han felt a stab to his stomach. The idea of any Wookie being a prisoner sickened him. And this particular prisoner reminded him of Dewlanna. He wondered if she would have faced a similar fate if she had returned to Kashyyyk following her husband's death. One glance at Anakin told Han that the former felt equally disgusted. After all, the two partners had endured some form of slavery during their respective childhoods. "I wish we could free him," Han added. "The Wookie, I mean."

"Right now, we should be worried about us," Anakin muttered.

At that moment, Mako and Captain Skafte approached the partners. "So," the latter commented, "you're friends of Mako?"

"That's right," Han replied with fake cheerfulness.

Mako added, "I had just informed Captain Skafte that we're shipping power converters to Maldore."

Anakin asked, "Are you two familiar with each other?"

"Captain Skafte used to be one of my instructors at the Imperial Academy," Mako explained. He added sheepishly, "Before I was expelled."

The captain added, "Now that Mako has explained everything, you're free . . ."

A loud roar filled the shuttle bay. The four men diverted their attention to the stormtroopers struggling with the Wookie captor. A frown darkened Skafte's countenance. "Now what?" he muttered. "Treece! What is going on?"

A blond-haired junior officer replied, "I'm sorry sir. The Wookie is being difficult. Being an animal, I guess he can't help himself."

"You have a Wookie as a slave?" Anakin asked, surprising Han, Mako and Skafte.

The captain regarded Anakin warily. "Do you have a problem with this . . . uh, Captain . . .?"

"Horus. Set Horus." Anakin shook his head. "No sir, I don't. In fact, slavery is very common where I come from. I'm merely surprised that you would use Wookie labor. I've heard rumors that they can be difficult as slaves. Not that I actually believe such rumors." Han noticed that Anakin had refrained from mentioning his homeworld by name.

A cool smile touched Skafte's lips. "They've made pretty good slaves since the fall of Kashyyyk, ten years ago. And this slave," he nodded at the Wookie, "happens to be a talented technician and pilot. The Trandoshans had captured him some three months ago. This Wookie tried to escape before he could be sold, but he failed and served under another Imperial commander before he was transferred to me." I've had him for a week and plan to transfer him the Maw, where he is to work on one of the Empire's new projects."

Anakin's face expressed interest. "Really? A pilot and a technician? How long have you had him aboard this starship?"

With a shrug, Skafte replied, "Oh, about a week. I'm transporting this . . . creature to the Maw, where he is to work on one of the Empire's new projects."

"How much are you willing to sell for this . . . creature?" Anakin's question surprised Han.

Apparently, Skafte also seemed surprised by Anakin's request. He frowned at the former Jedi and asked, "You're interested in buying this Wookie? Why? Didn't you say that they don't make good slaves?"

"I said that most people don't consider them to be good slaves," Anakin corrected. "I also said that I didn't believe such nonsense. According to you, he's a good mechanic and I can certainly use one."

Han struggled to contain his excitement. Did Anakin actually plan to help free the Wookie? He noticed that Skafte had become pensive for a few minutes. Then the officer stared at Anakin. Han wondered if his partner had gone too far.

"How do you plan to keep him in line?" the Imperial officer finally asked.

A cruel smile curved Anakin's lips. For the first time in years, Han could imagine him as a Sith Lord. "Let's just say that I plan to use a more effective method other than a blaster or taser," he coldly replied.

[Fish1941]

As the two men walked away to discuss the enslaved Wookie, Mako leaned forward to whisper in Han's ear. "What's going on?"

Han tried to play dumb. "Huh?"

"The Wookie!" Mako hissed. "Why is Horus suddenly interested in the Wookie?"

Han murmured back, "We need an extra mechanic for the Hawk."

"Who are you kidding?" Mako retorted. "Horus could probably fix that ship of his, blind-folded. Or else he could simply buy a droid." Realization gleamed in his eyes. "Oh no! Horus is trying to . . ." He broke off momentarily, as an officer passed by. Then he added in a lower voice, "He plans to free that Wookie, doesn't he?"

Keeping his gaze fixed upon Anakin and Skafte, Han merely replied, "Why would any of us be interested in freeing some slave? Let alone a Wookie?"

At that moment, Anakin and Skafte returned to the younger men. The smiling Imperial commander was saying, ". . . to be of service, Captain Horus. I only hope that you realize what you're going to be dealing with." He turned to the blond-haired lieutenant. "Treece! Bring the Wookie over here! He will be leaving with our new friends."

Lieutenant Treece and two stormtroopers forced the Wookie to join Han and Anakin. As Treece began to remove the Wookie's shackles, Anakin barked, "What are you doing?"

Treece blinked several times. "Uh . . ."

"Treece, you idiot!" Skafte retorted angrily. "The Wookie is now Captain Horus' property! Not some member of his crew! Keep the shackles on! And hand him over to the Captain's co-pilot, so they can be on their way."

The red-faced Treece handed the chains to the Wookie's shackles over to Han. Who led the Wookie aboard the Hawk. The moment the pair were safely out of sight, Han unfastened the shackles. "Welcome aboard the Javian Hawk," he greeted. "I'm Han Solo. And the captain . . ."

Anakin quickly boarded the ship. "Let's go, Han!" he barked. "We're out of here! Now!"

Han flashed an apologetic smile at the Wookie and followed Anakin to the cockpit. Less than five minutes later, the Javian Hawk finally left the Dreadnought, with the Alastian Star closely behind.

--------

Chewbacca stood in the middle of the starship's narrow passageway and stared at the shackles near his feet. Why had the boy removed them? Why . . .?

The ship jolted before Chewbacca felt it move forward. He realized that the Corellian ship had just left the Dreadnought. At first, the Wookie felt a sense of exultation. After three months he had finally escaped his Imperial masters. Then he recalled the hard eyes of the ship's captain. A nagging fear began to worm in the back of his mind that he had exchanged several masters for a new one. Once more, his eyes fell upon the shackles. If he was still a slave, why did the boy remove his shackles?

Slowly, Chewbacca began to move around. If he could find a weapon, perhaps he might force his new . . . companions to deliver him to the nearest inhabited system. And hopefully, he would find a way to reunite with the Drunken Dancer crew.

Ten years ago, Chewbacca and a group of fellow Wookies had been charged to aid a small band of renegade Jedi, led by Olee Sandstone, to find other Jedi being hunted by the Empire. Unfortunately, the mission led to disaster as Chewbacca, Sandstone and their band fled to Kashyyyk with the Empire and a Sith Lord named Darth Rasche, close behind. Following the fall of his homeworld, Chewbacca and the Drunken Dancer's crew spent the next decade harassing Imperial ships and freeing any Wookie slaves they came across. Just three months ago, Chewbecca came across a fellow Wookie named Tvrrdko. Unfortunately, Tvrrdko's son had been killed while fighting aside Chewbacca during the Clone Wars . . . and blamed the latter for his son's death. Seeking revenge, Tvrrdko betrayed Chewbacca to a Trandoshan slaver named Ssoh. A failed attempt to escape from Ssoh led the enslaved Wookie into the hands of an Imperial officer named Nyklas. The latter, a brutal and cruel taskmaster set out to make Chewbacca's life as miserable as possible. Once more, Chewbacca made another attempt to escape slavery. With the help of the Dreadnought's crew, Nyklas managed to prevent Chewbacca's escape. Captain Skafte, the Dreadnought's commander had suggested he transport Chewbacca to one of the galaxy's hell spots - the Maw - for work on one of the Empire's new projects. One week later, the Dreadnought came across two Corellian freighters and Chewbacca no longer found himself in the hands of the Empire.

Quietly, the Wookie began his search for weapons. It did not take him long to find them in a storage cabinet near the ship's port side. Not only did it possess blaster pistols and rifles, but also a Jedi lightsaber. Chewbacca frowned at the weapon. The sight of it reminded him of Olee Sandstone and the other former Jedi on the Drunken Dancer. The weapon also reminded him of the late Roan Shryne and the little green Jedi Master he had met during those last days of the Clone Wars. How did two smugglers managed to get their hands on a lightsaber? He reached for the weapon.

"I wouldn't touch that if I were you," a deep voice murmured. Chewbacca snatched a blaster pistol from the weapons cabinet and aimed it at the voice's owner. Who happened to be the tall, blond pilot who had just purchased him from the Dreadnought's captain. "Well, this is a new development."

Chewbacca growled, "I want you to drop me off at the nearest inhabited system. Now!"

The pilot shook his head. "Sorry, but I don't speak Shyriiwook or any other Wookie language." Then he roared, "Han! Get in here! Now!"

Nearly a minute passed before the younger man - Solo - appeared. "What's the problem?" The words barely came out of his mouth, when his eyes fell upon the blaster in Chewbacca's grip. "Whoa! I mean . . . what the hell is going on?"

"This Wookie wants something . . ." the older pilot began.

Chewbacca interrupted, "I want passage to the nearest habitable system. Or else."

"Or else what?" Solo shot back. "Why are you pointing that blaster at my friend?"

"Your friend had just bought me," Chewbacca growled. "I don't intend to hang around and make it worth his while."

Solo contemptuously rolled his eyes. "My friend had bought you so that you can be free! Why else would I remove your shackles?"

Feeling slightly foolish, Chewbacca lowered the blaster. "Oh. I . . . Sorry."

"What did he say?" the older pilot asked.

Solo replied, "He said that he was sorry." He turned to Chewbacca. "Listen, we're on our way to Maldore. We can drop you off there, if you like. Or perhaps take you somewhere else."

Chewbacca had intended to search for the Drunken Dancer if he ever found himself free. Unfortunately, three months had passed since his capture. Since Sandstone and her crew were wanted by the Empire, he felt certain that the Drunken Dancer would remain on the move. Quite frankly, he had no place to go. Her wondered if the humans would allow him to join their crew.

The older pilot gave the Wookie a knowing look. "All alone in the world?" Chewbacca nodded. The two pilots exchanged a glance before the older one added, "I realize that this might be a spur-of-the-moment thing, but . . . you're more than welcome to join our crew."

The pilot's offer took Chewbacca by surprise. The former seemed to have read his thoughts. Then he recalled the weapon in the locker. He wondered if the blond man was a former Jedi . . . or that these two were involved in activities against the Empire, like the Drunken Dancer's crew. "Well?" Solo added.

Chewbacca nodded and growled, "I would be happy to."

Solo translated his answer to the older pilot. Who broke into a grin. "Great! You've already met Han Solo and I'm . . . Set Horus." He offered his hand. "Welcome to the Javian Hawk!"

-------

CORUSCANT

A loud buzz from the door announced a visitor. Darth Rasche switched off his lightsaber and ordered, "Come in!"

A stocky man of medium height entered the Sith Lord's personal gymnasium. He wore the uniform of an inquisitor. "I have a report regarding Senator Dahlma," the Inquisitor announced. "Yesterday, she and her aide boarded a transport for Maldore."

Rasche sighed. "It looks as if she had been telling the truth, after all."

The Inquisitor continued, "There's more. The senator remained at her private home in Malag. She didn't bother to travel to her family's estate in Dalgar."

"Interesting." It looked as if the Emperor's suspicions about a non-existent funeral might be well founded. Tell your agent to keep an eye on the senator. See who goes in and out of her home."

The agent bowed. "Yes, my Lord." He immediately left the gymnasium.

Rasche took a deep breath and picked up his comlink. "Commander Abbas, summon the crew and prepare the Exactor for departure. I will be leaving for Maldore."

END OF CHAPTER FOUR

[Fish1941]

CHAPTER FIVE

JUNDLAND WASTES, TATOOINE

The former Jedi Master and former padawan emerged from the cave hovel that served as Obi-Wan's home. The cave certainly did not seem like home to Ferus. He could not help but wonder how the older man had endured living in this desert wasteland for the past decade. Roaming the galaxy from one end to the other would seem more preferable than one year on this desolate planet.

"How can you stand it?" Ferus asked, as he regarded the craggy scenery with distaste.

The older man stared at him. "I beg your pardon?"

"Living here. How can you stand it?"

With a sigh, Obi-Wan calmly replied, "One learns to . . . adjust." He met Ferus' gaze. "I did not say this earlier, but I am truly sorry about what happened to your friends."

"They're not dead," Ferus tersely replied.

"Oh! I did not . . ." Obi-Wan hesitated. "Pardon my mistake, but you did not exactly go into details about what happened to your friends."

Memories of the last time he saw Trevor filled Ferus' mind. He especially recalled the bitter tone in Trevor's voice, while he tried to explain his decision regarding the Emperor. "If you don't mind, Obi-Wan," Ferus finally said, "I would rather not speak of the matter. At least not now."

"You sound . . . bitter," Obi-Wan commented. "Ferus, one day you will have to discuss the matter. With someone." When Ferus did not bother to respond, the former Jedi Master continued, "So, when will Senator Organa come for you?"

Ferus' gaze focused upon Tatooine's rising twin suns. "Any minute now. I had assumed we would leave yesterday, but Senator Amidala wanted to spend one last evening with her children and the Larses before she left." He paused. "You know, I do not recall her being married. And what is the history between you two?"

A long, silent pause followed. Ferus could almost feel the heat burning through the older man's eyes. "There is no . . . history between myself and Senator Amidala," Obi-Wan replied coolly. "At least nothing for you to suggest otherwise . . ."

"Forgive me, Obi-Wan," Ferus hurriedly injected. "I did not mean to imply anything . . . intimate between you and the senator. But the children . . . and you had not seem particularly surprised that she was still alive."

A sigh left Obi-Wan's mouth. "That is because Master Yoda, Senator Organa and I helped her evade the Emperor during the last days of the Clone Wars. In fact, we were the ones who faked her death. Senator Amidala . . . had been at the forefront of an attempt to drive the Palpatine out of office before he became the emperor. The senator and I have shared previous experiences together. My old master, Qui-Gon Jinn and I had assisted her during the Trade Federation's invasion of Naboo. I'm sure that you remembered that particular incident, although you were a child at the time. Both the senator and I were also among those who had fought at the Battle of Geonoisis."

"I see." Ferus did not understand, but something else puzzled him. "But if you and Master Yoda had done all that to help her, why had she seemed so . . . cold toward you? And hostile?"

Obi-Wan's stare became suspicious. "Why are you so interested in the state of my relationship with Pa . . . Senator Amidala?" From the moment Obi-Wan had appeared at that Mos Eisley inn, Ferus had detected great emotion between the former senator and the Jedi Master. Negative emotions that hinted anger, hostility, guilt and resentment. It seemed so unlike Master Kenobi to harbor such feelings toward any living soul, save a Sith Lord. Before Ferus could respond to the other man's question, Obi-Wan added, "Has this something to do with Queen Apiliana's death?"

"Pardon me?" Ferus blinked.

At that moment, a starship descended from the skies above. It turned out to be Captain Sen's skiff, the Alberforce. Once it gracefully landed on the flat desert, a boarding ramp eased to the ground. "I believe your ride has arrived," Obi-Wan coolly declared.

Captain Sen and Senator Organa descended from the skiff. "Good morning Ferus," the senator greeted. "Master Kenobi."

Obi-Wan bowed at the Alderaanian senator and prince. "Good morning to you, Senator Organa. I trust you had a restful night." He bowed at the red-haired woman. "Captain."

Captain Sen returned Obi-Wan's nod before she turned her attention to Ferus. "Master Olin, I believe it is time for us to leave."

Ferus faced Obi-Wan one last time. "I hope that we will be able to continue this conversation upon my return, Master Kenobi. Until then, good day."

The older man's eyes momentarily reflected reluctance at the idea of another conversation. Then Obi-Wan broke into a quick smile and said, "Of course. Do take care of Senator Organa and Senator Amidala. Along with yourself. May the Force be with you." He nodded at Organa. "Senator, have a safe trip." Then he turned away and strode back inside his hovel.
Both Ferus and Senator Organa followed the red-haired captain into the ship. Minutes passed before the Alberforce rose from the ground and zoomed into Tatooine's atmosphere.

--------

MALAG, MALDARE

Mako checked his data chip after his client, Sekka Verdu, handed it back to him. "There you are," the Quarren declared cheerfully. "Thirty-four thousand credits, each."

A wry Han commented, "You mean thirty-three thousand each for Set and myself."

Verdu nodded at Han and Horus' new companion. "And the Wookie?"

Mako shot an uneasy glance at the Javian Hawk's new crewman. "He's not part of the deal," he replied curtly. "Will there be anything else, Mr. Verdu?"

The Quarren's squid-like tentacles wiggled slightly. "I don't think so, Captain Spince. Our business is over until next time. Gentlemen." He nodded at the four smugglers and strode toward a shuttle parked near Mako's freighter.

As Verdu's shuttle rose above landing pad, Mako turned to his companions. "Pardon my confusion, but I thought this Wookie was supposed to be in chains!" he retorted. "Exactly when did he become part of your crew?"

Horus coolly replied, "From the moment Han escorted him aboard the Hawk. Why? Is he a problem for you?"

Ignoring the other pedestrians' stares, Mako shot back, "If Captain Skafte had the slightest hint that you were planning to free that . . ."

The Wookie growled, causing the hairs on the back of Mako's neck to stand.

"Say Mako, if you were about to call him a thing," Han began, "I better warn you that Chewie might take it personally."

"Chewie?"

After a pause, Han said, "Chewbacca. That's his name."

"I don't care what his name is," Mako retorted. "Both of you could have gotten us into a lot of trouble with that stunt."

Han opened his mouth to reply, but his partner spoke first. "I really don't see why you're so upset, Spince. Had a little trouble with Wookies in the past?"

Mako felt a flash of guilt, as recalled a pair of Wookies he had sold to a Trandoshan trader. "Of course not!" he replied hotly. "I just . . ."

Horus continued, "You just what? Thanks to you, we had ended up on a route heavily patrolled by Imperial ships. If you had chosen another route, we would have never encountered the Dreadnought . . . or met Chewbacca. Since it all ended well, neither of us have anything to complain about. Do we?"

Mako dared not stare into Horus' eyes. Quite frankly, the older man frightened him. He sometimes had the feeling that Set Horus possessed a ruthlessness that could make the galaxy tremble with fear. And he did not want to be the one to unleash that fury. "Fine," he grumbled. "You've made your point."

A cold smile curled Horus' lips. "Good! Now, I don't know about the rest of you, but I need some sleep. Someone please lead me to the nearest hotel or inn."

"There's the Lumati Hotel," Han suggested.

Mako added, "Yeah, they have a great bar. I know I'm going to need it."

The three men and the Wookie left the city's spaceport and made their way toward a nine-story hotel located in one of Malag's more pleasant districts. Mako had expected the hotel's clerk to reject the Wookie. To his surprise, the clerk did not raise a fuss.

Feeling like the odd man out, Mako curtly excused himself and headed toward his room. He washed himself and changed into clean clothes before returning downstairs . . . and heading straight toward the hotel's bar, the Twilight Star. Once settled upon an empty stool, he ordered Corellian ale. "A whole pitcher," the smuggler added.

After the bartender returned with a pitcher of Corellian ale and a glass mug, Mako poured himself a drink. He had taken a few sips, when a stranger approached him. "Pardon me sir, but are you a . . . spacer?"
Mako glanced to his right and found a short and stocky man with curly black hair, standing next to his stool. He sighed. "Yes, I am. Why? You need a pilot?"

The man hesitated. "Actually, my employer does require one. This is an important job that will pay at least one thousand credits."

With a shrug, Mako grumbled, "I've just finished a job that earned me thirty-four thousand credits. Why would I need another one?" He took another swig of ale.

"Greed?"

Slowly, Mako placed his mug on the bar and turned to stare at the stranger. A long moment passed before he mouth slowly stretched into a wide grin. "You know me well, do you Mister?" Then he took another swallow of ale. "You've got a deal. When do we leave?"

The man coughed nervously. "Um . . . you're not exactly hired. The best I can offer is an interview."

Mako frowned. "A what?"

"My employer . . . will offer the job. But only after an interview." The man paused. "In Suite 60-A."

The Corellian rolled his eyes in disgust. He considered himself a smuggler, not an employee of the Tagge Corporation. But his sense of greed could not dismiss the idea of an extra one thousand credits. Especially since he had originally expected to earn at least fifty thousand. "All right," he said with a sigh, "I'll meet your employer in Room . . ."

"Suite 60-A," the man corrected. "Please be there within an hour." He gave a quick nod and walked away.

Mako finished the ale in his mug. He dared not drink another serving. Not if wanted that extra thousand credits.

--------

Within a small room inside one of the Lumati Hotel's suites, Zoebeida Dahlma observed her aide and manservant interview another candidate for the Ord Mantell job via a holo projector. She had to admit that the bearded young man looked very handsome. He also seemed to project a charm that would appeal to many women. Yet, Igraine seemed immune to the pilot's charm. Zoebeida shared her aide's sentiments. Despite his physical appeal, he harbored a predatory air that she found distasteful.

The pilot's surname had certainly come as a surprise. Zoebeida found herself wondering if this Mako Spince was anyway related to Senator Spince of Corellia. She hoped not. The idea of this disreputable pilot being part of the distinguished Spince line seemed like a crime.

The interview finally ended. Igraine stood up and headed toward the room where Zoebeida awaited. "Milady," she declared upon entering the room. "What do you think of Captain Spince? He seems like a competent pilot, but . . ."

"Let him go," Zoebeida ordered. The younger woman arched a questionable eyebrow before the former added, "I don't trust him. I realize that most . . . smugglers are disreputable, but there is something about him that I dislike. My feelings tell me that he would sell us to the Imperials without hesitation . . . if it meant saving his skin. Thank him kindly for his time and let him go."

Igraine seemed relieved by Zoebeida's decision. "If you wish, Milady." She bowed and left the bedroom.

The Maldarian woman leaned back into her chair and sighed. It occurred to her that if she did not find a pilot soon, she might be forced to choose the first one in her thoughts. And unfortunately, Mako Spince seemed to be the only one in her mind, at the moment.

-------

[Fish1941]

"This is nice." Han settled back into his chair inside the Lumati Hotel's only outdoor café. "Isn't this nice? I mean, I love that waterfall near the waiter's station. And the drinks - really fancy. A guy could dine here for the rest of his life."

Anakin heaved a long-suffering sigh. "Han, I don't want to sound like a grouch, but could you please shut up?"

"What?"

"I know that you don't want to be here," Anakin continued.

Han grunted and took a sip of his Corellian ale. "Then why are we here?"

Anakin grabbed his glass of Juma juice. "I . . . am here because this restaurant makes the best Kommerken steak in this part of the galaxy. You knew this when you suggested that we stay here, in the first place. You also had a chance to accompany our new friend, Chewbacca, to one of the local taverns. But you didn't."

"Listen, watching a Wookie eat a side of raw meat does not do wonders for my appetite," Han retorted. "Sharing the dinner table with Dewlanna - rest her poor soul - had already added plenty of trauma to my childhood."

Anakin murmured, "Hmmm. Poor Chewbacca spends his first meal as part of our crew . . . alone, because you can't stand to watch Wookies eat. I'll be sure to remind him."

"Wait a minute!" Han paused, as an anxious expression appeared on his face. "You're not serious, are you?"

A teasing smile curled Anakin's lips. "Maybe." Before Han could protest any further, the waiter returned with their meals.

The Kommerken steak proved to be excellent, as usual. Upon the completion of their dinner, the pair left the café and strolled across the lobby. Just as they were about to contact their new companion, a short man with dark and curly hair approached them. "Pardon me gentlemen, but I was told that you were pilots. Is this true?"

Anakin regarded the man with narrowed eyes. "And who told you this?"

"The hotel clerk," the man answered. "If this is true, I have a proposition for a job. One that is at least worth one thousand credits. If you're interested, please meet me in Suite 60-A."

"Wait a minute," Anakin began. "What exactly is this . . .?"

Han interjected, "A thousand credits, huh? We'll be there."

The man nodded. "Good. Don't forget . . . Suite 60-A." He walked away.
An irritated Anakin rounded on his younger partner. "Do you mind telling me why you had accepted that man's offer?"

Han shrugged. "I thought we might need the extra money. To compensate for the credits we had lost, buying Chewie."

"As I recall, buying Chewbacca from the Imperials was supposed to be an act of compassion."

Han shot back, "Well . . . being compassionate can also be a little expensive. And besides, we've just been given a chance to make up for our loss. Why ignore it?"

Anakin sighed. Heavily. "All right. You have a point. But remember . . . you've just accepted an offer we don't know anything about. I only hope that we don't end up regretting this."

--------

THE BRAK SECTOR

Padme sat quietly in her seat, as she glanced out of one of the starship's windows. Small, bright lights glittered in the dark space, prompting her to sigh.

"Miss the children already?" Bail's voice asked, interrupting her thoughts.

"Hmmm?" Padme glanced away and found her fellow passenger staring at her.

Bail continued, "You seemed to be deep in thought."

"I suppose I am thinking of the children," Padme commented. "Especially Leia. She is . . . not very fond of Tatooine. Mind you, she loves Owen and Beru, but the planet is not exactly to her taste. She prefers Bakura . . . and Alderaan."

Master Olin spoke up. "I cannot say that I blame her, Milady. Tatooine strikes me as rather desolate. Nor can I understand why Master Kenobi had chosen it as his home."

"Tatooine is not exactly the place that is bound to attract Imperial attention, Master Olin," Bail explained. "I believe that Master Kenobi has made the perfect choice."

Padme added caustically, "I suppose that Tatooine must fit Obi-Wan's sense of martyrdom. As I recall, he did not care much for it when we first landed there, twenty-four years ago."

A long silence followed. Padme realized that her current hostility toward her husband's former Jedi master might have been revealed. Her cheeks burning with embarrassment, she turned away and resumed staring out of the window.

"Excuse me," Bail said, unfastening his seat strap. "I believe I should check with Captain Sen about supper." He stood up and made his way toward the cockpit.

Padme found herself enduring another long stretch of silence. Eventually, Master Olin broke it when he asked, "How long have you known Obi . . . Master Kenobi?"

"For at least twenty-four years," Padme replied. "When he and Qui-Gon Jinn had rescued me from the Trade Federation. That's when I first saw Tatooine." And met Anakin, she added silently. Padme continued out loud, "I had also fought beside Obi-Wan and . . . his padawan during the first battle of the Clone Wars, on Geonosis."

A bewildered looking Ferus Olin shook his head. "I don't understand. If you two have such a long history together, why . . . Why did I sense hostility between you two on Tatooine? Or when I first mentioned him a few minutes ago?"

Padme sighed. "Obi-Wan and I had a . . . disagreement during those last days of the war. When he, Master Yoda and Bail helped me evade the Empire. It's . . . a private matter."

"I see." Ferus paused. Padme wondered what he was thinking. Then he said, "Your children seemed very attractive and intelligent. Your son . . . he . . . Pardon me, but he reminds me of someone I knew." Padme felt a lump in her throat, as Olin continued, "In fact, he reminds me of Obi-Wan's former padawan."

The lump in Padme's throat grew larger. "Really? I have never considered such a thing. But I suppose that it has been a while since I last saw . . . Master Skywalker." Padme wondered if Olin had sensed her emotional turmoil at the mention of Anakin's name. She glanced at the former Jedi padawan, who wore a calm expression. If he had, he gave no indication.
Bail reappeared in the skiff's passenger section. "I found Captain Sen in the galley, not the cockpit. It seems that supper is ready." He stood before Padme. "Milady?"

With a faint smile, Padme rose to her feet. She nodded at Bail, who linked his arm with hers and drew her into the ship's narrow passageway. Master Ferus rose to his feet and followed closely behind them.

-----------

MALAG, MALDARE

The moment he walked inside the hotel suite, Igraine's heart skipped a beat. She could not keep her eyes off him. The newcomer and his companion gave her a slight nod before they sat down on the suite's wide sofa.

Igraine struggled to keep herself from staring at the older man. What woman could ignore the lean and muscular quality of his tall frame? Or his dark blond close-cropped curls that framed his handsome, yet hard-edged face? How could any woman not notice the intense blue eyes that seemed to sear into one's soul? And no one could fail to notice the light scar around his right eye that gave him an extra dangerous aura that rarely surrounded a man of his age. Igraine figured that he must be at least thirty. Or slightly older.

"Nice place!" the man's companion exclaimed. "A night in this suite could cost a spacer at least two jobs." Igraine directed her attention at the younger man. There seemed to be no doubt that he was handsome and possessed a scruffy air that women might find appealing. Although affable, his brown eyes had an edge of one who may have seen too much of life for one so young.

Igraine fixed a polite smile on her face. "Good evening, gentlemen. Would you care for a drink?" Both men politely turned down her offer. Then she added, "May I have your names?"

"May we have yours?" the older man countered. His deep voice produced a wave of heat throughout Igraine's body.

Her smile widened. "For the moment, I wish to remain anonymous." She paused, taking note of the pair's questioning stares. "This job is one that requires anonymity. Especially for . . . me. But as my man had told you, it does pay one thousand credits."

The two pilots exchanged meaningful looks before the older one sighed. "If you wish, Milady. My name is Captain Set Horus. And this is my companion, Han Solo."

"Captain Solo," the younger man added.

Igraine continued to stare at the older man. "Does your starship provide space for passengers?" She noticed how his eyes swept over her in an appreciative manner.

Captain Solo replied, "For at least four passengers. And the Hawk is one of the fastest ships in this galaxy. Trust me."

Still aware of Captain Horus' stare, a mesmerized Igraine continued, "Well, that's is um . . . I believe . . ." She broke off, as Senator Dahlma's manservant, Chattal Rahm, whispered a message in her ear. She smiled at the two men. "Excuse me." Then she rushed into the suite's bedroom, where she found the older woman pacing back and fourth. "Is there something you wish to tell me, Milady? Will these two pilots do?"

The senator, who regarded Igraine with an amused expression, replied, "Apparently they will . . . for you. Captain Horus is a very handsome man."

"So is Captain Solo," Igraine quickly added. Then she blinked, realizing that Senator Dahlma had seen through her little charade. "Um . . . if you're not comfortable . . ."

Senator Dahlma quickly interjected, "They will do. Tell them I will be ready to leave, tomorrow morning."

Igraine responded with a slight nod. "Yes, Milady. Pardon me." And she left the bedroom. The Maldarian woman found the two pilots staring out of a window, talking. "Gentlemen," she announced, drawing their attention, "I am happy to tell you that you're hired. We will meet you at the city's . . ."

"We?" Captain Horus asked, with a raised brow.

A wave of heat flushed over Igraine's face. "Yes, um . . . there will be a second passenger. As I was saying, we'll meet you at the city's spaceport, tomorrow morning. Where, uh . . .?"

"Our hangar is located on Vox Avenue," Solo added. "We'll see you around eight in the morning." He glanced at Captain Horus. "Is that about right?"
The older man nodded. "That would be fine." He gently took hold of Igraine's hand and bowed over it. "Until tomorrow morning, Milady."

A breathless Igraine replied, "Captain Horus." Remembering the other man, she nodded at him. "And Captain Solo. Good evening to you both."

The two men bowed - the older one with more ease - and left the suite. With Captain Horus' departure, Igraine felt a personal sense of bereft . . . something she had not experienced since the death of her former fiancé. And it frightened her.

--------

The following morning, the Javian Hawk's three crewmen stood near the bottom of the ramp, inside the Vox Avenue hangar. "It's almost eight," Han complained. "Where are they?"

"They have another eight minutes," Anakin replied. "Give them time." He paused before adding, "Are all systems in order?"

Chewbacca growled, which Han took as an affirmative.

"I wonder why our employers didn't just give us her name," Han speculated. "This trip must be very special."

Anakin replied, "Perhaps she doesn't want the Empire to know about this trip. And she's not our employer."

Han frowned. "How do you know?"

"Let's just say that I had sensed another presence inside our employer's suite." From the corner of his eye, he saw Han struggled to keep from expressing contempt at Anakin's reference to the Force.

Another growl emitted from Chewbacca. Han translated. "Here they come." Two cloaked females entered the hangar. The older woman looked slightly familiar to Han, who murmured to Anakin, "Looks like you were right about a second person."

The two women paused before the Javian Hawk's crew. "Good morning Captain Horus, Captain Solo," the older woman greeted. Her dark eyes settled upon Chewbacca. "A Wookie! Well!" She nodded at the latter. "Good morning to you, sir." Chewie responded with a polite growl.

Anakin bowed before the women. "Good morning, Senator Dahlma." The older woman's eyes widened with shock. "Yes, I had recognized you from a half-torn campaign poster on a wall, nearby."

Grudging respect dawned in the senator's eyes. "So much for anonymity," she murmured. Then she turned to her younger companion. "I believe you have already met my aide, last night. Igraine Colbert."

Anakin's gaze met the petite woman's vivid green eyes. He bowed. "Milady."

"Captain," Miss Colbert murmured. Red spots began to form on her cheeks. Anakin wondered if she felt just as attracted to him, as he did toward her. A part of him hoped so. Another part felt reluctance at the idea. Aside from a mere physical longing for Vi'dal, Anakin had never felt so drawn toward any woman after Padme. He doubted that his feelings for Miss Colbert matched his intense love for his wife. But he felt more than simple lust for the young Maldarian woman.

Being his usual pragmatic self, Han asked, "Where are we going?"

The senator hesitated. "Worlport, on Ord Mantell."

Anakin recalled the former military station located in the Bright Jewel System. It had possessed a weapons storage facility and a series of barracks for the clone troopers during the Clone Wars. "Ord Mantell? That's at least a day's journey from here," he said. "But it should take us less than a day if we jump to hyperspace. The trip should not be any problem."

"Good," Senator Dahlma replied. "Shall we go?"

Nearly fifteen minutes later, Anakin guided the Javian Hawk out of the Vox Avenue hangar. Just before the starship could lift off, he spotted a man hovering near the hangar's entrance. Now what was Mako Spince doing there this early in the morning?

END OF CHAPTER FIVE

[sharyntyre]

:wtg: impressive, nicely done!!!

[Fish1941]

Thank you! Here is Part Six:


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CHAPTER SIX

ANCHORHEAD, TATOOINE

The burly man strode casually along one of Anchorhead's dusty streets, accompanied by two children. The golden protocol droid followed closely behind, filling their ears with incessant chatter.

"I really do not see why Miss Padme had left behind and taken Artoo," the droid complained. "As a protocol droid, I have knowledge of over six million forms of communication in my programming. Surely, I could have serve as interpreter for Miss Pad . . ."

"Not now, Threepio!" Luke barked. "Now is not the time for you to be complaining about being left behind. Mother has made her decision."

The protocol droid sounded affronted by his young charge's outburst. "Well really, Master Luke! I did not realize . . ."

"One other thing, Threepio," Owen added, "I don't think it's a good idea for you to be bandying Miss Padme's name out loud. There might be Imperial ears listening."

"Yes, Master Owen."

The group finally reached a poundstone store that sold power converters at the street's south end. Uncle Owen turned to Luke and Leia. "I want you two to wait here. Threepio and I will be right back."

"You need me, Master Owen?" the droid asked.

With a sigh, the moisture farmer replied, "Yes, Threepio. I need you to translate the binary language for the moisture vaporators." He nodded at Luke and Leia. "And you two, stay close." Then he and Threepio entered the shop.

The twins settled on a small bench outside of the shop. Nearly ten minutes passed before Leia heaved a loud sigh. "I'm bored," she muttered darkly. "I thought that Anchorhead would be more exciting than this."

Luke rolled his eyes. His sister could be quite a grouch at times. "Then you should have stayed at the farm."

"And spend hours in the company of two women barely able to conduct a conversation with each other?" Leia snorted. "Thanks, but no thanks."

Another three minutes passed. Leia opened her mouth for another complaint, but Luke spotted a familiar figure. "Hey! It's Biggs!" Then he cried out, "Biggs!" A dark-haired boy around the twins' ages stared at the twins. A smile lit up this thin face, before he waved. Luke waved back and stood up.

"Luke, where are you going?" Leia demanded. "Uncle Owen told us to stay here." The fair-haired boy ignored his sister and rushed toward his best friend. "Luke!"

The two boys met in the middle of the street and slapped each other on the backs. "Hey Luke!" Biggs Darklighter greeted. "What are you doing here on Tatooine? Your family usually don't visit until another two months from now." Biggs happened to be the son of a wealthy land magnate . . . and Luke's best friend for the past six years.

Luke shrugged. "Leia and I are staying with our uncle, while Mother is on a business trip. Are you with your father?"

Biggs pointed at the Weary Traveler Tavern. "He's in there, getting a drink. I saw you and Leia. Where's your uncle?"

"Buying a new moisture vaporator," Luke answered.

Biggs nodded. "Maybe your uncle can allow you to visit our home before you leave. Dad just bought me a new skyhopper. A suborbital T-12 model." A wide grin appeared on his face. "The wings' span are this wide, and . . ." As he threw out his arms, his left hand knocked against a burlap sack held by a passing pedestrian. Bottles of liquor fell out of the sack and crashed upon the ground. Luke detected the strong odor of alcohol.

Tall, burly and grizzled, the pedestrian cast an intimidating glare at the Biggs. "Clumsy brat!" he growled. "Look at what you've done! I had paid a good amount of wupiupi for those bottles of ale."

"I'm sorry, sir," a slightly frightened Biggs pleaded. "It was an accident."

The man retorted, "Sorry doesn't mean anything! I'm out of 200 wupiupi and some good Spiced Ale!" He grabbed Biggs by the latter's tunic. "It's gonna take more than an apology to make up for my loss, boy!"

Luke decided to help Biggs escape the man's grip. "Hey! Let go of my friend! He said that he was sorry!" Then Luke tried to pry the man's fingers from Biggs' tunic. His efforts ended in vain, when the man shoved Luke aside with a free hand. The eleven year-old's rump landed on the ground.

"Luke!" Leia rushed forward and helped her brother to his feet. She then rounded furiously on the man. "You bully! I suppose you consider yourself brave for picking on boys half your age!"

Sensing the man's growing ire, Luke grabbed his sister's shoulders and drew her back. "No! Leia! Don't!" he hissed.

But Leia's temper had passed the point of no return. "Why don't you let our friend go? What can you possibly achieve by bullying a twelve year-old boy?"

With Biggs still in his grip, the man leaned down and sneered at Leia. "Mighty fine words coming out of the mouth of a little girl. Your friend just cost me 200 wupiupi. One way or the other, I'm getting payback!"

"By bullying a child?"

"Is there a problem?" another masculine voice asked. The three children and the pedestrian stared at the robed figure that had materialized before them. Luke immediately recognized the mysterious man who had joined Mother, Uncle Bail and another man at Mos Eisley. "You seemed to have that young man in a rather tight grip, Mister . . .?"

The man snarled, "The name is Oswald Rankin and this matter is none of your concern!"

"What has the boy done to you?"

Looking slightly annoyed, Rankin retorted, "He had cost me two hundred wupiupi, when he broke my bottles of very expensive Corellian Spiced Ale!"

The robed stranger smiled. "Really? And did the boy break your bottles of ale on . . . purpose?"

"Look here, old man! I suggest that you leave now! Like I said, this is none of your concern."

Luke glanced up at the robed man's face and noticed that his blue eyes glittered mysteriously. "This boy has not harmed you in any way."

Rankin stared hard at the robed stranger. It seemed to Luke as if the former had suddenly become mesmerized, as he released Biggs. "You're right," Rankin murmured. "The boy did not harm me."

The robed stranger murmured, "He did not mean to break your bottles."

With a nod, Rankin added, "Yes, you're right. He did not mean to break them."

"Perhaps it is best that the ale is gone," the stranger added. "You do not need to consume all that alcohol."

His eyes still glazed, Rankin said, "No . . . I don't."

"You will forget this incident and go home."

Rankin frowned momentarily. Then he said to the stranger, "What incident?" He stared at the three children. "What's going on?"

"It is nothing, sir," the stranger answered with a smile. "You seemed a bit out of sorts. We were all trying to assist you."

"Well, I'm fine." Rankin regarded the others with confusion. "Um . . . thanks. Excuse me." He nodded curtly and walked away.

Luke and his two companions stared at the robed stranger. "How did you do that?" he demanded. "How did you manipulate his thoughts like that?"

The robed man merely smiled in a mysterious fashion. "I'm afraid that your Mr. Rankin might be an easily suggestive person." He regarded the three children with concern. "And you . . . are you three unharmed? Has he . . .?"

"I'm fine," Biggs replied. "Other than he nearly scared me senseless."

Luke added, "No harm . . . except for my pride and backside." He thrust out his hand to the stranger. "Thanks for your help. I'm Luke Sk . . . uh, Organa, by the way. And this is my sister, Leia and my friend, Biggs Darklighter."

The man shook Luke's hand. "It's very nice to meet you."

"And exactly who are you?" Leia demanded. "You look familiar."

The man's smile widened. "My name is Ben. Ben Kenobi."

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WORLPORT, ORD MANTELL

Once the Alberforce penetrated Ord Mantell's thick outer cometary cloud, it made its way toward the planet's glittering capital, Worlport. A heavy sheet of rain greeted the starship's passengers and crew as it finally settled upon one of the spaceport's landing platforms.

The starship rolled into an empty hangar and came to a halt. Several minutes later, Padme and R2-D2 followed Bail, Captain Sen and their Jedi protector down the Alberforce's boarding ramp. "I need to report my arrival to the portmaster," Voranda declared. "I will meet all you at the hotel, later." She hesitated. "What names will you be using to check in? In case I need to contact you."

Bail replied, "I will be using the name, Tam Avner. As for Senator Amidala, she will . . ."

"My name will be Rhiannon," Padme added. "Rhiannon Chir."

Voranda nodded. "Good. I will check with you, later tonight." She walked away from the others.

Bail led the others outside of the hangar. Then he hailed a shuttle taxi to convey them to the Hotel Grand. Dominated by skyscrapers and red-domed topped buildings, Worlport's skyline reminded Padme of a heady mixture of Coruscant and Naboo's capital, Theed. To her surprise, Master Olin expressed a similar opinion, out loud.

"I must say that this is a very lovely city," he commented, while glancing out of a shuttle window. "I cannot tell whether it reminds me of Coruscant or Theed."

Padme stared at the former Jedi. "You've been to Naboo?"

"Yes, Milady." Unease briefly shadowed his eyes. "Nine years ago, to be exact."

"Around the time of Queen Apaliana's death," Padme murmured quietly. "And the death of my grandmother."

The former Jedi remained silent, while Bail continued, "It is hard to believe that this place is now a smuggler's haven. Especially since it was originally settled by Corellian farmers."

"A Jedi master named Pablo-Jill had managed to bring peace to this planet about fourteen or fifteen years ago. Just before the Clone Wars."

"You must be very proud." The words came out more sardonic than Padme had originally intended. Master Olin stiffened, while Bail focused his attention to the view beyond his window.

Padme glanced out of the window beside her and spotted the words - HOTEL GRAND - in bright lights that illuminated through the heavy rain and gray skies. The shuttle soon descended upon one of the hotel's landing platforms. Upon reaching the hotel lobby, Bail and Padme checked into their rooms under their aliases. Bail managed to acquire a suite with adjoining bedrooms for himself and Master Olin. Padme acquired a room next door to theirs. The trio and R2-D2 then set out for the hotel's turbolifts. Upon entering one, they encountered none other than the senator from Chandrila, Mon Mothma.

"I see that you've all finally made it," the Chadrilian senator greeted.

Bail asked, "Are we the last to arrive?"

"No. One other is still missing." Mon shot an uneasy glance at Olin. "Who is your friend?"

Bail made the introductions. "This is our protector, Master Ferus Olin. He is a former Jedi."

Mon continued to eye the younger man uneasily. "Really?" Then her gaze narrowed. "Have you ever been on Coruscant? In recent years, I mean."

"I'm afraid that it has been quite a while, Milady," Olin calmly answered.

The turbolift arrived on the hotel's tenth floor. All of the occupants stepped out. "Your room is on this floor?" Padme asked.

The Chandrilian senator smiled. "I have ensured that all of us have rooms on this floor. The conference room is located here, as well." After shooting another curious glance at Olin, Mon added, "Well, I should prepare for supper."

"Who hasn't arrived, yet?" Bail asked.

"Zoebeida," Mon replied. "She has yet to arrive." Padme realized that Mon had referred to Zoebeida Dalhma of Maldare.

They came upon Padme's room. "Well, here we are," she announced. "When will the first meeting . . .?"

"A dinner for us has been scheduled to begin in about five hours," Mon replied. "Just down the corridor, in the Jewel Room. I will see you then."

Padme nodded. "I only hope that Zoebeida arrives in time, as well." She and R2 entered her room. As the door shut behind her, Padme heaved a sigh. Between the upcoming Alliance meetings, having a former Jedi in her midst and being separated from her children, the next two days might prove to be strenuous.

-----------

ANCHORHEAD, TATOOINE

Owen and CP-30 stepped out of the junk shop and noticed something very alarming - Luke and Leia seemed to be missing. Contrary to his instructions, they had left the bench in front of the shop.

"Oh Master Owen!" Threepio wailed. "Something terrible must have happened to them!"

The moisture farmer rolled his eyes. Threepio could be ridiculously melodramatic at times. Like now. On the other hand, there was a possibility that the twins might be in danger.

"Uncle Owen!"

Owen glanced to his left and saw both Leia, Luke and Biggs Darklighter rush toward him. A man in a hooded robe accompanied them. Alarm bells rang in Owen's mind, when the man threw back his hood. Obi-Wan Kenobi beamed at him. Owen realized that Padme would have his hide if she knew that her children had met the former Jedi Master.

Luke reached the moisture farmer firs