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Author	Topic: Dawn of Darkness -EP III AU A/A and SO (Updated 6/8 9:29 PM)
RangerPrincess Registered: Jun '02	Date Posted: 6/22/05 1:58pm Subject: RE: Dawn of Darkness -EP III AU A/A and SO (Updated 6/8 9:29 PM)
	The Chancellor must die. Mwahaha. Great post. --RP -----signature----- "You were my brother, Anakin. I loved you!"--Obi-Wan to Darth Vader "I am your reward, you don't find me handsome?"--Darth Vader "I HATE YOU!"--my three-year-old cousin or Anakin? chiss_man is my e-ewok
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PadmeSolo Registered: Jul '02	Date Posted: 6/22/05 3:35pm Subject: RE: Dawn of Darkness -EP III AU A/A and SO (Updated 6/8 9:29 PM)
	RangerPrincess: It's really too bad we have to wait so long for someone to off the bastard! Thank you! _PSK_ _______________________________ Obi-Wan glanced at the boy standing by his side. Ari shifted uncomfortably, gazing in discontent at the scene in front of him. The trip to the banquet chamber had been pleasant enough, all of them trying to relax for a moment, but now the strain had returned. The conversation with Padmé was on constant reply within the Jedi Master's mind, but he could not let it affect him. Obi-Wan had the urge to share his thoughts with Ari later in the evening, but he was beginning to suspect there was a stronger connection between his current and former Padawans than he cared to admit. Talking about anything concerning Anakin with the boy beside him could be an unneeded risk. Obi-Wan knew the boy did not trust the older Jedi, but that did not mean he would be able to keep a secret of this magnitude. Silence and meditation seemed to be his only options at the present time. The Jedi Master watched as the Chancellor set a hand on Anakin's shoulder and led him to the head of the table. Anakin allowed his eyes to meet Obi-Wan's for a moment before turning and dutifully following the Chancellor. Obi-Wan observed Anakin's progress, eyes narrowing as he slid into the seat at Palpatine's right hand. He forced himself to take a calming breath. He was reading far too much into a simple seating arrangement. Turning his attention to Ari, he tried to smile. "Shall we find our seats?" Ari motioned in front of them. "I think they're at this end." Obi-Wan glanced back to the head of the table. The Jedi had been seated as far away from the Chancellor as possible while still being placed at the center table in the hall. "I see. Well, let's take our seats." In eerie synchrony, Master and Padawan shed their cloaks and slid into their seats. Few of the other guests had arrived yet and Obi-Wan took the opportunity to observe Anakin and the Chancellor. The Jedi Knight's gaze was fastened on the man before him, his head dipping in agreement every few moments. The Chancellor concentrated most of his energy on Anakin as he spoke, watching carefully for the reaction of the younger man. Occasionally, when Anakin dropped his gaze, a pensive scowl would emerge on Palpatine's features. As soon as the Jedi's attention returned, the mask would slide back in place. The Chancellor appeared unpleased with something. Obi-Wan was pleased to note that Anakin's countenance exuded none of his earlier unease. He appeared to be in good spirits, smiling often. Obi-Wan noted that the young man's sunny disposition also allowed him to remain blissfully unaware of the Chancellor's displeasure. As the Jedi Master allowed a smile to slide across his features, Palpatine moved his head to stare directly at him. Cold eyes, flashing dangerously, held his own. Icy fingers trailed their way down his spine as he held the gaze. Palpatine's lips parted in a barely concealed sneer before he turned his attention slowly back to Anakin, a possessive look filling his eyes. Free of the Chancellor's interest, Obi-Wan allowed a small shuddered to pass through him. Shaking his head, he muttered, "Not pleasant." Ari glanced at him out of the corner of his eye. "That man scares me." Realizing that Ari had noticed the interaction, Obi-Wan nodded. "He has a somewhat unnerving demeanor." "Master, I believe that may be the biggest understatement of the millennium." A wry smile adorned the Padawan's features as he studied the place settings. He picked up the menu card. "I can't even pronounce most of these." The Jedi Master glanced at the list. A few traditional Alderaanian dishes caught his eye, but his apprentice was right. For the most part, the food listed seemed untranslatable into Basic. "I've heard of the first thing. It's a special Alderaanian fruit with some sort of honey sauce. It's normally a starter at fancy events like this one. One of the main dishes is a vegetable from here as well." Ari visibly relaxed. "I'll ask for that one. The last time I attended something like this I ended up with some strange chewy meat from a hunting trip to somewhere called Dagobah. Have you ever heard of it?" "Master Yoda mentioned it once," Obi-Wan supplied. "You were at a banquet?" The boy shifted, refusing to meet Obi-Wan's gaze. "It was anything important. Before I came to the Temple. I was very young. I barely remember anything but the nasty meat." He paused, a small chuckle emerging from his throat. "I suppose that tells you something about children's memories." Obi-Wan glanced at his Padawan. "We've never talked about that." "What?" The Jedi motioned vaguely. "Your life before coming to the Temple. I let the subject slip." "I avoid it," Ari told him. "I don't like to remember." "Now's as good a time as any," Obi-Wan replied. Senator Organa had yet to appear and he wanted to avoid looking at the Chancellor any more than necessary. Ari's eyes glazed over as he frowned at the table. His voice was nearly toneless when he spoke. "What do you want to know?" Obi-Wan tried to send waves of comfort towards his Padawan, but Ari's shields were firmly in place. The boy was not interested in anyone invading his head. The Jedi sighed. "Anything you wish to share, Padawan." "I told you I was born on Corellia," Ari began quietly. "I have very few memories of the planet. I think my father worked for a smuggling organization until they had to flee when a deal went wrong. They never told me that, but I've pieced it together over the years. Anyway, my birth was an accident. My mother helped run a brothel in one of the red light districts. She wasn't interested in children or family, at least not when she got pregnant. My father forced her to marry him and keep the baby, me." "So it wasn't a happy marriage?" Obi-Was silently filed away what Ari had told him. Some aspects of the boy were beginning to make sense. His adverse reaction to relationships seemed to be more than a strong adherence to the Jedi Code. Ari shook his head. "They hated each other. She hated me for putting her in the situation and he hated me for making her unhappy. He refused to acknowledge that he had done that himself. When my father's job on Corellia went bust, they fled to Coruscant and switched identities. My last name used to be Tyrena. Of course, I don't remember that. We rented a small, lower-level apartment nearly halfway around the planet from the Jedi Temple. My father got a respectable job with a trade organization. That's why I went to a banquet. It was for the company. I went to the local government school." "How is public education these days?" interjected the Jedi Master. A smile ghosted over Ari's lips. "Rather awful. I learned a bit about reading and writing Basic that's been helpful, but that's it. Nobody who's anybody goes to public school on Coruscant. It's full of kids like me, sons of smugglers." "Sounds charming. You mentioned something about your parents sending you to the Jedi Temple?" Obi-Wan questioned, recalling their previous discussion. "They were annoyed with me when I was at home, so I spent most of my time at school or hanging around the back alleys with gangs of boys. The gangs were horrible, but they taught me to fight at a young age. Imagine a five year-old involved in a full out vibro-blade and blaster brawl. You learn to take care of yourself regardless of age. Granted, I was never involved in anything fatal…" Ari's voice cracked, stopping abruptly. Obi-Wan's eyes narrowed. "What is it, Padawan?" "Nothing. Nothing at all," Ari replied, his words forced and empty. "I won't think differently of you, Ari. You can trust me with anything." The Jedi's soothing voice belayed his sudden nervousness. Ari usually controlled himself far better than this. "That day with Tangia." Ari's voice shook. "Something happened. More than her getting shot. We'd gone to one of the lower levels. I shouldn't have let us go there. I wasn't thinking…" "What, Ari?" He turned his green eyes to bore directly into Obi-Wan's. "I killed someone, Master. I didn't want to, but he had hurt Tangia and he was going to hurt me." The Jedi Master shook his head. "There's nothing wrong with self-defense, Ari. That's what most of your Jedi training has been aiming at teaching you." "No!" Ari insisted. His eyes flashed wildly as his tortured gaze remained on Obi-Wan. "I could have just injured him. Disabled him. Instead I killed him. I chose to kill him…" "Padawan, there are some situations where even a Jedi cannot consider all of the consequences. You must act as the Force dictates and interpret later. I am no advocate for the undue use of violence, but sometimes it is unavoidable." Obi-Wan's words were soft, but his expression was deadly serious. Ari sighed. "I know. I just can't stand it, knowing that I'm capable of that." Obi-Wan's lips parted to reply, but before he could speak Bail Organa entered the Banquet hall. Chancellor Palpatine stood as Bail walked to join him at the head of the center table. When Senator Organa arrived at his seat, he addressed the hall. "I'm glad you could join us for the welcoming banquet in honor of Supreme Chancellor Palpatine. He has a few words he would like to share after the food, but before the dancing, so please remain seated after you finish your meal." The Senator's gaze rested on Obi-Wan for a moment. "I believe we are ready to proceed. I hope you all enjoy the menu." The Jedi joined in the polite applause that followed. Obi-Wan glanced up the table at Anakin. The blonde threw him a roguish grin before turning back to Senator Organa and Chancellor Palpatine. The Jedi Master tried to force himself to relax. Don't think about Anakin he reminded himself. He glanced at Ari. The boy was still visibly upset. "We'll discuss this further later tonight, Padawan." Ari bit his lip. "Yes, Master." -----signature----- I'm finishing Dawn of Darkness -> http://www.fanfiction.net/s/3267659/1/
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Jeditheskyisblue Registered: Mar '01	Date Posted: 6/22/05 4:12pm Subject: RE: Dawn of Darkness -EP III AU A/A and SO (Updated 6/8 9:29 PM)
	Palpatine got Anakin's full attention that can't be good. -----signature----- It's Never To Late... http://boards.theforce.net/message.asp?topic=2214874&page=1 Is It To Late?(Sequel INTL) http://boards.theforce.net/message.asp?topic=2638672&replies=1 It Wasn't A Mistake(L/M) http://boards.theforce.net/message.asp?topic=2398787
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qtrhrs78 Registered: Sep '03	Date Posted: 6/23/05 5:13am Subject: RE: Dawn of Darkness -EP III AU A/A and SO (Updated 6/8 9:29 PM)
	Great update! I think Anakin's going to be a little upset with Obi-Wan when he finds out he knew about Padme's situation. Update soon.
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RangerPrincess Registered: Jun '02	Date Posted: 6/23/05 10:31pm Subject: RE: Dawn of Darkness -EP III AU A/A and SO (Updated 6/8 9:29 PM)
	Poor Ari. I wuff Obi-Wan. g --RP -----signature----- "You were my brother, Anakin. I loved you!"--Obi-Wan to Darth Vader "I am your reward, you don't find me handsome?"--Darth Vader "I HATE YOU!"--my three-year-old cousin or Anakin? chiss_man is my e-ewok
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Venus_Star2-com Registered: May '05	Date Posted: 6/24/05 2:49am Subject: RE: Dawn of Darkness -EP III AU A/A and SO (Updated 6/8 9:29 PM)
	this can't be GOOOD....anakin...RUN AWAY rachel
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PadmeSolo Registered: Jul '02	Date Posted: 6/25/05 1:19pm Subject: RE: Dawn of Darkness -EP III AU A/A and SO (Updated 6/8 9:29 PM)
	Jeditheskyisblue: Definitely not good... glares at Palpy Thanks for reading! qtrhrs78: Thanks! Hehe, a little upset might be a bit of an understatement! Update coming right up! RangerPrincess: hugs Ari I know! Thanks for reading! Venus_Star2-com: That would be the wisest course of action, but Anakin isn't exactly known for being wise. Thanks for dropping in! _PSK_ PS: Sorry it's short, but at least it's something! ___________________________________ The night air was crisp as Padmé stumbled through it. The Chancellor's guard had not relaxed his grip and her arms stung. She tried to ignore the pain as they approached one of the restricted landing platforms. During their journey to the ship, she had resigned herself to whatever lay ahead. The Chancellor could torture her for all she cared. As long as Anakin was blissfully unaware of the turn of events, she would be content. A small shudder ran through her as she remembered her nightmares. Sleep, since she had arrived on Alderaan, had been dreamless, but each night she was haunted by the prospect of dreaming. Padmé had convinced herself that the dreams of Vader and his children were twisted fictions drawn from the depths of her imagination, but the possibility of truth remained. Anakin could easily be swayed. She had come to understand that today better than ever before. Although he was a powerful Jedi Knight, he had twenty years of attachment to her working against him. Obi-Wan's teaching had been wise and well intentioned, but despite the guidance of the older Jedi, Anakin had fallen into a downward spiral. She frowned. He held on too tightly. Padmé suspected that his grip could crush those he was hoping to protect if he was not mindful. Her arm jerked violently as her captor hauled her onto the ramp of the ship. Padmé's eyes shone with defiance as she stared into the red mask, but she did not resist. The craft was a prototype of the shuttle that the Chancellor had been developing for his own private use. She recognized the design from a number of holo-pictures scattered about his office. Its crowning feature was the three wing design that folded upon landing. Padmé saw little use in the new design, but she suspected that Palpatine enjoyed the craft for its image and not its utility. Once up the ramp, he dragged her into the cockpit. She was unceremoniously dropped into one of the navigator's chairs. Reaching behind him, the guard produced two pairs of binders. He roughly grabbed one of her elbows, preparing to attach her wrists to the arms of the chair. "Is that really necessary? I'm not going anywhere." The guard paused a moment, as if considering her words. "After what you've tried?" He twirled his blade in front of her eyes. He eyes automatically followed the flashing metal. Distracted, she only noticed that he had continued to bind her when cool metal snapped around both her wrists. She tugged on one of the binders, but its cold grasp only tightened as she pulled. The guard stood above her with an air of satisfaction surrounding him. Her face hardened. "You will not get away with this. When the Senate learns what has happened…" "The Senate believes you are dead, Senator Amidala." His voice contained a mocking tone. He was enjoying this. Padmé's eyes burned into him. "Do not believe I will not be missed. People will know what has happened." He shrugged, reaching up to removed the red helmet. Tousled brown hair tumbled into his eyes. Padmé struggled to contain a gasp. The guard was nothing more than a boy, perhaps ten years younger than Anakin. Sharp hazel eyes smiled at her mockingly. "I don't believe we've been property introduced. Senator Amidala, I am Navé Lysacek, captain of the Chancellor's private guard. I'll be your purser for this flight to Mustafar." Padmé eyes were still wide with surprise as he spoke. He extended his hand to her, as if to greet her. She narrowed her eyes at him. "No words describe how unhappy I am to have made your acquaintance." He laughed harshly and removed his hand. "A pity. I might have felt the need to be nice to you if you didn't have that tongue of yours." "You will be severely punished for your actions here today," she hissed. He turned to the shuttle's controls, a smirk gracing his youthful features. His gloved fingers punched in the sequence for take-off. Padmé could feel the vibrations shaking her seat as the engines activated. Once the craft had begun to rise above the surface of Alderaan, he turned to her. "I do not believe I shall be punished. A reward is more probable. Everything is going according to the Chancellor's plans." She studied him closely. "Do you know what exactly the Chancellor's plans are?" His jaw tightened and he did not look her way. "I know what I must." Padmé nodded to herself. The boy had no idea who he was really serving. His services were pledged to the Supreme Chancellor of the Republic and that was who he served. Perhaps she could enlighten him. "He doesn't tell you everything. He couldn't afford to have you know." This time he did glance at her. "You think you know something I don't?" "Well," she began. "Tell me why you're taking me to Mustafar." "The Chancellor believes you are a threat to the Republic. You appear to have separatist leanings." Padmé resisted the urge to laugh. "Is that so? Does he know who tried to kill me the first time around?" The viewscreen broke into streaks of light as the shuttle made the jump to hyperspace. He checked all the controls before turning to her. "If you are trying to change my opinion of the Chancellor or pull me away from my duties, I assure you I will not budge." She lifted a brow. "And why would that be?" "I might know more than you guess, Mi'lady." He rose to his feet, grabbing the scarlet helmet under his arm. "We should be coming out of hyperspace in couple of hours. Don't do anything stupid. I will not hesitate to make you suffer." The words were not nearly as menacing coming from the mouth of a boy, but his eyes promised he would be true to his word. She shifted uncomfortably in the chair. "You're leaving?" "I have things to do," he replied. "I hope the stars are good company." "I'm sure they will be," she responded primly. "Good." She watched him depart from the cockpit. A boy as the captain of the Chancellor's elite guard? Palpatine was an endless enigma. Sighing, she turned to look out at the streaking stars. -----signature----- I'm finishing Dawn of Darkness -> http://www.fanfiction.net/s/3267659/1/
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wkmaksar Registered: Jun '05	Date Posted: 6/26/05 10:32am Subject: RE: Dawn of Darkness -EP III AU A/A and SO (Updated 6/8 9:29 PM)
	Why do i have a strange feeling that the guard will be charmed by padme? (even tho it won't make sense to the story at all). sigh i wish i stumbled on this story later, now i shall sit all thru summer waiting for a post. I need Ari to teach me some patience...
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PadmeSolo Registered: Jul '02	Date Posted: 6/28/05 4:44pm Subject: RE: Dawn of Darkness -EP III AU A/A and SO (Updated 6/8 9:29 PM)
	wkmaksar: Hum, perhaps the guard does have a weakness. We'll have to see. Hehe, I hope you won't have to wait all summer for a post... as a matter of fact, I'm trying to finish this summer! Glad to have you along! _PSK_ ______________________________ The steaming vegetables released a pleasant aroma into the air as they were placed in front of Ari. He glanced over as an identical platter was placed before his master. A couple of the diplomats around him had gotten the other entrée, a strange meat that appeared to have a jelly-like texture. Ari thanked all that was good in the universe for delivering him from that horror. He peered up the table at Anakin. The Jedi Knight had chosen the vegetable as well. Although served, Anakin was paying very little attention to the food placed in front of him. Instead, he was waving his hands wildly as he described something to both the Chancellor and Senator Organa. Ari's eyes narrowed as Palpatine put a hand on Anakin's shoulder while uttering something that caused the young man to dissolve into a fit of laughter. "He seems to be enjoying himself," Obi-Wan commented, having followed Ari's gaze. Ari nodded. "Far too much." "You can't expect him to be a foul mood with Chancellor," the Jedi Master reminded. "If he's going to do a good job of hiding what he knows, it's better for Palpatine to think he's happy and look no further." Anakin was still laughing. "He's way too happy." Obi-Wan surveyed his former apprentice. Anakin did have a rather ridiculous grin plastered on his face. "Perhaps he has merely consumed too much of the Alderaanian wine." "Hum," Ari murmured. "He does look giddy. Is it in the Jedi practice to get drunk at pivotal social events?" "I would not recommend it, but I do not believe the Jedi Code addresses the matter." Obi-Wan tore his eyes from Anakin and surveyed their neighbors. The mayor of a nearby city on Alderaan was seated at his side, but no one else had spoken to him. The couple seated across from them was too absorbed in each other to pay any particular care to the Jedi. The Jedi Master tried to avoid looking at them. He had no desire to watch their saccharine displays of affection. By Ari's side, a slender humanoid was engaged in a discussion about tree farming with others further down the table. No one was paying attention to the Jedi. Ari followed the sweep of his master's eyes. "The Jedi aren't celebrities out here." "Which is odd," Obi-Wan told him. "Most places we'd be swamped with interested guests. I sense something is not quite right." Ari's eyes flashed towards the Chancellor. "I have a few guesses as to why." The Jedi Master nodded. "Nevertheless, we should not let that stop us from enjoying this wonderful dish. It smells lovely." The Padawan took his utensils in hand and cut a piece. Placing it in his mouth, he chewed slowly. "It's good." Obi-Wan studied the boy for a moment before speaking. "We were talking about why your parents sent you to the temple." Ari paused mid-bite. "We were." "You wouldn't mind sharing more?" "Now?" "We might as well have your history behind us, Padawan," Obi-Wan gently reminded. The boy swallowed and took a slow drink. "When my Force abilities developed, I was able to retaliate towards my parents when they tried to discipline me. They were splitting up by that point and neither wanted to keep me, so when a teacher commented that I seemed to have latent Force abilities they jumped on the prospect. I was left at one of the Temple doorways." "I wonder why you missed the Jedi search when you were younger." Obi-Wan stroked his beard. "Very odd." Ari shrugged. "I don't think it's that strange. My Force abilities are rather low compared to those of Anakin or yourself." "Nevertheless, Padawan, you have enough of a connection to be a talented Jedi Knight." Although apparently unmoved by his master's admission, Obi-Wan could sense the boy's contentment. "I have achieved most of my abilities through careful study and hard work, Master, not natural talent." Ari cut another piece out of the vegetable. "I was behind in so many ways when I got to the Temple that now working extra hard just comes naturally." Obi-Wan smiled at him. "You have a greater drive and sense of duty to the Jedi Order than most Knights. I believe you will go far." Ari allowed his gaze to fall upon the Chancellor. "If I am allowed to live to see the day." The Jedi Master tried to ignore the chills that shot up his spine. "I will do everything in my power to make sure you become a Jedi Knight, Ari." Deep green pools stared at Obi-Wan. "I know, Master. I trust you, but there are factors at work that I do not understand. Everything is hanging in the balance." "When did you become a Jedi Master?" The question was a jest, but Obi-Wan appeared unsettled by his Padawan's words. Ari shook his head in dismissal. "I'm not wise, just stating the obvious." "I suppose it should be evident that we are all doomed." The Jedi Master forced a smile, but it did not reach his eyes. The boy allowed his eyes to slide shut. Engaging his senses, he reached out toward his master. To his surprise, the Jedi's shields were firmly in place. His eyes snapped open. "Something is troubling you, Master." "Nothing more than the usual," Obi-Wan refuted. "No, Master," Ari insisted. "You are clearly more disturbed than during our previous discussion." Obi-Wan stared intently at his Padawan. "There are some things that are not meant to be shared. You of all people should understand that." "Forgive me, Master." Ari's brow was raised in doubt, but he saw no other alternative. If the Jedi Master was not interested in sharing, he would not probe further. After all, there were some things he could not share either. The shields around Obi-Wan's mind tightened. "You are forgiven. And next time, Padawan, do try to wait until after the middle of a political dinner to confront me about my doubts." Ari bit his lip and nodded silently. He turned back to the table, his mind calculating quickly. Something was not right and he had the feeling his master already knew. He glanced at Anakin once again, but the blonde Jedi showed no sign of unease. Instead, he was still merrily joking with the Chancellor. Looks can be deceiving, Ari reminded himself. The Padawan's gaze shifted to Senator Organa. The man was shifting uncomfortably in his seat while staring down at his lap. Ari strained to see the focus of his attention. The Senator shifted again, allowing Ari to see the communicator in his hand. For a moment, Ari gazed in complete incomprehension. A communicator did not belong at a formal banquet. Even he knew that. As he continued to stare, the Padawan's eyes widened in comprehension. The Alderaanian Senator must have been monitoring Padmé's departure. Ari frowned as he considered the Senator. Judging from Organa's constant shifting, all was not right. Ari turned his attention to Obi-Wan, preparing to speak. His mouth hung open for a second before he snapped it shut. He would broach the subject after the banquet. -----signature----- I'm finishing Dawn of Darkness -> http://www.fanfiction.net/s/3267659/1/
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qtrhrs78 Registered: Sep '03	Date Posted: 6/28/05 7:48pm Subject: RE: Dawn of Darkness -EP III AU A/A and SO (Updated 6/8 9:29 PM)
	Great update. It appears to be the calm before the storm.
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Venus_Star2-com Registered: May '05	Date Posted: 6/29/05 2:22am Subject: RE: Dawn of Darkness -EP III AU A/A and SO (Updated 6/8 9:29 PM)
	its the calm before the storm indeed.....thanks for the PM...what's happened to Padmae now???/???will anakin disocover that she's missing...why is he laughing??? rachel
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PadmeSolo Registered: Jul '02	Date Posted: 7/1/05 9:14pm Subject: RE: Dawn of Darkness -EP III AU A/A and SO (Updated 6/8 9:29 PM)
	qtrhrs78: Thank you! I believe we might be hearing the first thunder... Venus_Star2-com: No problem on the PM . Padme's okay, for the time being. We'll be getting back to her shortly. As for Anakin... well, I can't tell you that! Although I must admit he might have been a bit drunk, but most of the laughing is just a show for Palpatine. _PSK_ PS: I apologize for the lateness/awkwardness of this post. It was hard to write, but necessary. ______________________________ The blue water swirled beneath the landing platform as Senator Raja exited her landing shuttle. The past few days had been a blur of trips between Kamino and Geonosis. The latter had put up immediate armed resistance when the Republic troops had arrived while Kamino had remained out of the conflict. Within hours, Nova had been able to negotiate the use of one of Kamino's cities for Republic headquarters. The fighting was continuous, but Senator Raja had taken to commanding mostly from Kamino. Although being on the Republic flagship gave a better perspective, the massive amounts of destruction being wreaked unsettled her. The experience was nothing like she had expected. She was not able to regulate the use of the army since the Republic ships were clearly being attacked by the separatists. The necessity of violence was plain. She squinted up into the pouring rain as she quickly made her way to the dry corridor. Nova sighed as the hiss of the water faded. As a child she had loved the swimming holes on Myrkr, but this was too much. She had begun to suspect she was going to want to live on desert planet. Turning towards the control room, she noticed the suffocating quiet of the corridor. The absolute silence was unusual. Normally, some of the Republic staff members were wandering the halls or the ventilators were running. A sense of unease slowly washed over her. Something was out of place. Taking a deep breath, Nova turned to stare down the hallway behind. Nothing was out of place. The pristine white floor glistened with wayward raindrops, but she could see nothing strange. She bit her lip thoughtfully and turned back. Sleep deprivation must be affecting her. Since her arrival in the outer rim, she had not had slept more than eight hours. Content that she was simply delusional, the Senator continued down the corridor. The clicking of her boots rang harshly against her ears. She ignored the sound, concentrating on the battle strategy for Geonosis. The separatists were fiercely defending the droid manufacturing plants, but Nova was sure that if the Republic could crack the defenses surrounding the areas, the tide would turn in the battle. Without a constant supply line, the separatists would start suffering more from their losses. The senator nodded to herself. She would discuss the best attack strategy with General Hobbs, a young Corellian sent by Palpatine to be her aid. She did not trust the boy and was not so naïve as to believe Palpatine had assigned him to her out of good will. Nevertheless, he knew war and his knowledge had proved invaluable so far. Pressing her palm against the doorframe, Nova entered the command center. Although a makeshift operation, the room contained the Republic's best equipment. She walked toward the center holo-display that portrayed the battle of Geonosis. "What's the status?" General Hobbs was instantly at her side. "We've managed to take out most of the Federation Cruisers. A lot of the ground infrastructure was destroyed nearly ten years ago when the first battle of the Clone Wars was fought there, so we don't have to worry about wiping that out." "It has always seemed strange to me that the Republic did not maintain control over Geonosis," Senator Raja mused. She frowned at her aid. "Ten years ago we had already shutdown all the droid operations on that planet, but then we suddenly withdrew." "I don't remember much from then," he admitted. "I was still a young boy fantasizing about leading the Grand Army of the Republic." "Well, you're leading part of it now." She studied the display. "I was thinking we should center the attacks on the droid plants. That should limit their supplies." General Hobbs nodded. "I was thinking the same thing. But speaking of leadership, someone is here to meet you." "What do you mean?" The feeling of unease began to resurface. "I don't know exactly. He arrived about an hour ago with a message from Chancellor Palpatine. He says he'll be taking control of operations here." The boy's eyes shifted toward her, but he did not turn from the holographic battle. "I told him you were the one to talk to. He's waiting in the conference room down the hall." "Did he give a name?" She was growing more suspicious by the second. "No. The message from the Chancellor was clear enough, so I didn't ask." Hobbs moved to look over the shoulder of a communications technician. "He seemed to have important business with you. If I were you, I wouldn't delay." Nova took a deep breath. "Of course. I'll see you once this all gets sorted out." "Right," he acknowledged. He allowed his gaze to follow her as she strode to the door. "Goodbye, Senator Raja." The words still rung in the senator's ears as she approached the conference room. General Hobbs had been strangely absolute in his farewell. His words seemed to have a malicious edge. She stopped facing the conference room door. Nova forced herself to take a deep breath. She was probably just imagining things again. Hobbs was untrustworthy, but he would never do anything to hurt her. She swiped her hand over the frame and entered the room. "Welcome, Senator Raja." A figure in a dark cloak rose at the opposite end of the table. "I have been expecting you." Nova forced herself to take a step into the room. The door hissed shut behind her. The speaker was male, but she could discern nothing else. "To whom do I owe the pleasure of this visit?" "That does not concern you." Twisted laughter sounded from within the cloak. "Not much will concern you." "Are you going to kill me?" She was numb with sudden fear, but years of political training allowed her voice to remain steady. The figure remained across the room. "You have to understand, I don't particularly like doing things this way. I prefer a fair fight with honor. A challenge if you will. But we do not always get what we wish for." "What is the advantage of killing me?" Part of her brain was screaming for a quick exit, but subconsciously she understood there were no more options. Her time had come. "You do not have the level of loyalty the Republic is looking for at this time." The tone conveyed a hint of amusement. "Since you cannot serve the interests of the Republic, it is in the best interest of the citizens of the Republic that you be eliminated." Nova shuddered as she considered the statement. "What does Chancellor Palpatine think he's doing? He is turning the Republic into a tyrannical dictatorship. He is destroying a democracy that has stood for a thousand years!" "Perhaps the new form of government will better serve its citizens." He was clearly enjoying provoking her. "I don't think so." Nova's fear was gradually fading. In its place, a seething anger was brewing. "What Palpatine is doing is unjust and evil!" "From your point of view." The cloaked figure sighed. "But enough of this. I'm afraid I'm going to have to eliminate you, Senator Raja." She set her jaw and stared daggers at her murderer. "I would rather die than live in a galaxy ruled by Chancellor Palpatine." He slowly walked to stand beside her. "I can arrange that." Nova glared into the shadowy depths of his cloak. "You will not succeed. There are still those that can stop you." "I wouldn't be so sure." A hiss followed by the hum of a lightsaber followed his words. Nova stared, her eyes entranced by the ruby blade. Although she had seen plenty of Jedi holos and had one toured the Jedi Temple, she had never come face to face with a lightsaber before. "Who are you?" The words slipped past her lips unconsciously. The blade hummed as he raised it. "Darth Tyranus, Dark Lord of the Sith." "The Sith…" she began, but Nova was unable to finish. The blade had already swept through her neck. The senator's body limply fell to the floor, resting beside her severed head. "Lord Sidious will be most pleased," hissed Tyranus as he sneered down at the slain senator. "Goodbye, Senator Raja." -----signature----- I'm finishing Dawn of Darkness -> http://www.fanfiction.net/s/3267659/1/
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wkmaksar Registered: Jun '05	Date Posted: 7/2/05 6:32am Subject: RE: Dawn of Darkness -EP III AU A/A and SO (Updated 6/8 9:29 PM)
	Let the massacre of senators begin! But why is palpatine not killing Organa first? Great post by the way!
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Jazz_Skywalker Registered: Aug '02	Date Posted: 7/2/05 8:23am Subject: RE: Dawn of Darkness -EP III AU A/A and SO (Updated 6/8 9:29 PM)
	I had no idea this story was still going on! I'll be watching it! Lovely posts, PadmeSolo! I hope Obi-Wan will be able to get to Padme in time! jazz -----signature----- currently working on NaNo 2007 (won) 11/24: 50,000+!
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PadmeSolo Registered: Jul '02	Date Posted: 7/4/05 12:07pm Subject: RE: Dawn of Darkness -EP III AU A/A and SO (Updated 6/8 9:29 PM)
	wkmaksar: Although this is a complete AU, I'm sticking with arriving at ANH. That means that Organa (somehow) doesn't die. In any case, at present it would extremely suspicious for Palpatine to kill Organa. Too many people are watching on Alderaan. Thank you! Jazz: Hehe, I just got back to it after a very, very long vacation. Thank you for reading once again! _PSK_ ___________________________________ The cockpit remained silent as the shuttle hurtled through hyperspace. Padmé was becoming unnerved by the steady sound of her breathing. She swiveled her chair to face the instrument panel. The controls were more complex than those of her Nubian transport, but after a moment of consideration she was able to identify a few vital dials and switches. Satisfied, she turned her attention to the panel directly in front of her. The display meant nothing to her. Nevertheless, the unknown buttons presented an opportunity. She bent over slowly, careful to make little noise, until her face rested on the controls. Smiling, she sat back up. Padmé would be able to operate the switches and buttons. She ran her eyes over the controls once more. They reminded her of something. Not from a ship, she would have remembered that. Her eyes narrowed in thought. Perhaps she had seen it during her diplomatic travels or maybe even at the senate building on Coruscant. Her memory flared for a moment, but then receded. Unnerved by the feeling that her answer hung before her, she concentrated on the senate building. She remembered a display like this in the senate building. Of that she was now certain. The Senators' offices did not have this type of display, but perhaps someone had modified theirs. An image of a gigantic window flashed before her eyes. There was only one office with that window. The massive window had been installed specifically at the request of Chancellor Palpatine. She tried to conjure a picture of the Chancellor's office. Her eyes snapped into focus as she gazed at the control panel. Palpatine had one on the side of his desk. That made sense since the shuttle was his as well. Now she needed to determine what resources were available. She glanced down at her manacled hands in concentration. Padmé muttered softly to herself. "Not navigation, that's across the way. Not hyperdrive control, that's in the center. Not tactical. Does this shuttle even have that much tactical? It must if it's Palpatine's. Not general flight controls. What does that leave? Environmental control or…communications!" Her heart leapt as she stared down at the switches. It was unlikely Palpatine kept environmental controls in his office. The control panel must be the Chancellor's customized version of a standard communications array. She had to restrain the shout of glee that threatened to leave her lips. She silently thanked the guard for choosing this particular chair to shackle her to. Leaning down, she depressed one of the buttons with her nose. The display instantly lit up and a message in Basic scrolled across the holographic display that had been activated. "Please enter destination code," she murmured. Padmé bit her lip in indecision. Obi-Wan was already aware of her destination. He could easily alert the Jedi Council if needed. Whoever she contacted had to be someone she could trust. The person had to already know her situation and also understand the need for discretion with Anakin. Those stipulations greatly restricted her choices. A secure connection on the receiving end would also be helpful, so the person had to have an encoded receiver. The emergency security code from Naboo entered her mind. She could use that as a code, but who could she use as a receiver? After a moment of silence, she laughed softly. The answer was easy. Sabé knew the situation and would immediately respond to any emergency code sent out on the Nubian frequency. Leaning back over the panel, she carefully punched in the encoding algorithm with her front teeth. Her nose was too cumbersome for the job. Another message appeared telling her to enter a destination code. She keyed in Sabé personal galactic comm. The lights flashed erratically for a moment before the blue holograph of Sabé appeared. "Padmé?" The blue figure called in confusion. "What's wrong?" "Speak softly," Padmé warned. "I've gotten myself into a rather unpleasant situation. Chancellor Palpatine learned that I was still alive while he was on Alderaan. I was leaving the planet with Senator Organa's nephew when we were ambushed by the Chancellor's guard. I'm on my way to Mustafar now. I was able to communicate with Obi-Wan, but I was clear that I didn't want immediate intervention from the Jedi." "They could help…" Sabé began. Padmé shook her head. "No. I don't want Anakin knowing anything. He's too vulnerable right now. I told Obi-Wan to tell him I've made it safely to Naboo." "He agreed to that?" "He wasn't happy, but we don't really have a choice, Sabé. Anakin's unstable. I've only recently realized just how thin a rope he is walking," she admitted. Sabé inclined her head. "I trust both of you. What do you want me to do?" Padmé glanced around the cockpit. "I don't think I have much time, but I was hoping you could help me set up escape plans. I may not have another opportunity to directly communicate with you, so I think we should pick a signal." "You want me to come get you and take you to Naboo, don't you?" Sabé was frowning. "That's what I hoped. If we choose a signal for your arrival, I can be ready and hopefully we can get away without too much trouble. I have a feeling I may be able to manipulate a few of the guards." Sabé sighed. "I suppose that's really our only option. Whenever you want me to come, send something with the Nubian emergency encryption. You will be able to find a port right?" "I'm sure I can. I'll let you know when I have everything in place. Remember, not a word to Tangia or anyone else about this," Padmé reminded severely. "I know." Sabé moved to disconnect. "I'll await your signal." The hologram flickered out and Padmé quickly depressed the off button with her nose. Even if the call was still in the records, it was doubtful the Chancellor or his guards could decrypt it. The door hissed and she jerked upright, hoping the action appeared natural. The young guard entered the cockpit, glancing dismissively down at her. "Not causing any trouble, are you Senator?" "Why would I do that?" She glared up at him. Nevertheless, his words caused her some disquiet. He spoke as if he knew everything that she had done. The boy's mouth twisted in an amused smirk. "Do not think anything you do gets past me." Padmé raised a brow in amusement. "Are you trying to tell me something?" "I would not treat the matter so lightly," he warned. "The next time you attempt to compromise the security of this mission I will report your activity to the Chancellor. He will not be kind." "I can understand that," Padmé began. "But I can't understand what you're so worried out. I've been sitting staring into space for who knows how long." "Senator Amidala, there is no use lying to me. I know you have contacted the Security Minister from Naboo on Coruscant." The words were casual, but Padmé gut clenched at their meaning. Her eyes narrowed. "How?" Captain Lysacek shrugged. "Does it matter? If you must know, there's a security monitor within the cockpit." "Why?" "Excuse me?" His face was etched with confusion. "It's installed so I can watch you." "No, not the security monitor. Why haven't you already alerted the Chancellor done something drastic to me?" She was numbed by the possible meanings of the guard's actions. "Senator Amidala, some questions are better left unasked." He turned and swept out of the cockpit without another word. -----signature----- I'm finishing Dawn of Darkness -> http://www.fanfiction.net/s/3267659/1/
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