| Author |
Topic:
Dawn of a New Age:An AU of ROTS-if Anakin allowed Mace to kill Sidious - updated 10/27
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Milteck
Registered:
Jul '06
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Date Posted:
9/17 10:13pm
Subject:
CH 44
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Sorry for the delay in posting this, but recently have had to move again and am also going on vacation starting tomorrow. Please enjoy this extra long update.
Jedi Temple – Council Chamber
The Council Chamber was fortunately one of the few places within the Jedi temple that had been spared from being damaged during the attack, untouched from the horrors and devastation that made it one of the few places a Jedi could go within the temple to find peace and quiet.
Yet the Council Chamber was anything but tranquil.
The battle was now over, but for Obi-Wan the real battle was about to begin and it was far more daunting than any Sith army bent on their destruction. In a few hours, the Jedi Council would convene to decide Anakin Skywalker’s fate and, in Obi-Wan’s opinion, decide the very future of the Jedi Order itself. There was certain to be opposition to the change; whether it comes from old grievances against Anakin or simply from fear of change that would be masked by stubbornness to preserve an archaic code that no longer fit the times. Needless to say, it would not be easy and Obi-Wan wondered what sacrifices would have to be made in order to save Anakin, as well as bring balance to the Force.
The tension in the room was thick as Anakin awaited his fate, uncertain if he would be asked to stay and deeply concerned over what he might have to sacrifice in order to stay. Both Jedi Masters had changed their robes to fresh ones, wanting to look their best for what was certain to be remembered as one of the most defining council sessions of their time, perhaps even of the Order itself. Obi-Wan sat next to him in the council chamber, trying his best to keep him calm while Padme watched over the twins in the center of the room – along with the droids R2-D2 and C-3P0. To Obi-Wan’s surprise they were already crawling, despite being less than a couple of weeks old. They seemed to genuinely enjoy themselves at the expense of the C-3P0, who could only fidget helplessly as they crawled after each other in a circle around and between his legs. He was unable to stop them and it didn’t help matters that R2-D2 was prodding them on by chasing them with holo-monsters, starfighters, and any other special creature he could create from his holo-emitter.
“I implore you,” C-3P0 begged. “Please make them stop.”
Padme just laughed back at the droid and so did Anakin.
Being with his family seemed to help sooth Anakin’s fears, but it wasn’t enough to block them out entirely. He tried to focus on Obi-Wan’s advice to not worry about the future, but it was impossible now that the moment was quickly coming to pass and the council would convene to decide his fate. Despite Obi-Wan’s words of assurance and advice, it didn’t prevent Anakin from dreading what was to come. Though the Jedi now rallied around him, they were both aware of how difficult it would be to keep Anakin a part of the order.
Anakin smiled at his family.
Regardless of what happened, seeing them safe and happy eased his mind about whatever fears that may now await him as a Jedi. He had done everything the Jedi had asked him up until this moment, most notably allowing Master Windu to destroy Palpatine and now saving the Jedi Order from destruction. All of the triumphs he achieved, accolades won, and heroic deeds had turned Anakin into a powerful figure within the Order and Obi-Wan had no doubt that his voice now carried a lot of weight within the Council Chamber. Yet again; his inexperience and youth threatened to undermine him and Obi-Wan also knew that the senior members of the Council would yet again attempt to bully them with what they perceived to be their superior knowledge and skills. Despite all of Anakin’s gifts and strengths, he was a relative lightweight in the Council and would be easily devoured by the likes of Ki-Adi or Luminara. Except this time Anakin was going into a Council session with the strong backing of Yoda and Master Windu, adding strength to Obi-Wan’s resolve that they allow Anakin to fulfill the prophecy and save him from disgrace. When Master Yoda told him that he would find a way to keep him a member of the Order, he genuinely believed him but knew that whatever Yoda had in mind would not be easy.
Most importantly, Obi-Wan remained devoted to his friend and was intent on making Anakin believe like he could overcome this like he had with everything else that had challenged him during his life. Between Obi-Wan and Anakin, there was a bond that went far beyond friendship and he would need that bond here today if he was to get through this. They were more like brothers than friends, forming a bond bound from war and hardship that was impossible to break. Obi-Wan could sense that Anakin tried to remain confident about his chances, but underneath that façade was a nervous man who was scared not just for his future, but for his family as well. It would not take much to push Anakin off the edge and if the Council forced him to chose between leaving the Order for his family or stay without them, he would leave without looking back.
Obi-Wan was intent on not allowing that to happen.
“Don’t fear what is to come, Anakin,” Obi-Wan assured him. “We will do whatever it takes to keep you on this council and as a member of the Jedi Order.”
Anakin nodded appreciatively.
“For the first time, Obi-Wan, I genuinely feel that the Jedi Order wants me to be here and is beginning to accept me for who I really am.”
Obi-Wan nodded in agreement.
Of all the Jedi who had risen up through the ranks during this generation, there was no one more highly scrutinized than Anakin and most of it had been negative in order to either hold or halt his development. It was also true that there were certain members of the council that had always resented him being imposed upon them by his former master. Master Windu and Master Ki-Adi always were his strongest critics, who continuously questioned whether he was the Chosen One and had made his path very difficult to ascend through the Jedi Order. However, Anakin had won over Mace Windu by assisting him destroy the Chancellor and now was one of his strongest supporters and Ki-Adi was doubtful to survive his injuries. It was a testament to how radically things were beginning to change.
“It is true Anakin that you’ve had to overcome much adversity and obstacles to reach the position you are in now, but despite whatever misgivings the council has had against you, they certainly have been overcome and you have overcome their scrutiny. You have become a heroic symbol for not just the Republic, but now you represent what every Jedi Knight should aspire to become. The Council now recognizes that and would be genuinely surprised if they asked you to leave now.”
“Do you think that my image will be enough for the council to ignore how I have broken the code?”
“No, but through your actions you have shown the Jedi that our archaic beliefs have tarnished us and we must let them go if we are to once again be balanced with the Force.” Obi-Wan paused, before admitting further, “You remind me a lot of how Master Qui-Gon used to be, who like yourself, challenged the Jedi code and believed the Jedi Order needed to be balanced.”
“I wish Qui-Gon was here now.” Anakin replied somberly.
“I know. I miss him too.”
The Maverick Jedi master had been on both of their thoughts repeatedly throughout the day. Qui-Gon sacrificed his life for on Naboo so that Anakin could fulfill the prophecy as the Chosen One. He had saved Anakin from a life of slavery and set him on the path of the Jedi. It seemed wrong that he was not here to share in this moment, but they also felt he was there, both in their hearts and memories.
“Qui-Gon will be vindicated soon enough,” Obi-Wan concluded. “There will be a great many after this whom will finally see him as the visionary he truly was and honor him appropriately.”
“They already do Obi-Wan,” Anakin told him with a smile. “Through you, they honor his memory.”
Obi-Wan smiled as well as he knew that to be true.
“Soon they will honor his memory through you as well.”
“No,” Anakin objected. “It will be you they honor.”
The doors for the council chamber then opened and Master Windu walked inside.
“This is it,” Obi-Wan told him discreetly as they stood and bowed to Master Windu. Padme stood as well and showed her respect to Master Windu by bowing as well, but afterwards she walked to stand beside her husband and left the children under the care of C-3P0. The first thing they both noticed was Yoda was not with him and it drew concerned glanced between as they prayed something wasn’t wrong.
Master Windu paused as he entered upon discovering that the sacred Council chamber had been turned into a playroom for Skywalker’s children. He had wanted them out of the Jedi archives, but did not mean they be brought here to their sacred High Council chamber and had hoped they be taken back to Padme’s quarters where they would be kept out of sight until after the session was over. The situation was delicate enough without Skywalker inciting the Jedi’s sensibilities by parading his children before them.
“I thought we had come to the understanding that your children would be returned to your quarters,” Master Windu reminded them. “What are they doing here?”
“They will be taken there when the time is right,” Obi-Wan answered before Anakin or Padme could respond. He then further explained, “Anakin wanted his family close to him while he considered his future and since he was ordered to come here, they were brought here as well.”
“Would you like us to leave?” Anakin asked Master Windu directly, making it clear from the tone of his voice that they would all be leaving together and would not return.
“That won’t be necessary,” Master Windu replied. He let the matter drop before it spiraled out of control and was thankful he stopped short from actually demanding they be removed. Padme didn’t say anything, but she didn’t need to. She just stared at him with angry eyes that all but revealed her opinion of him.
“I am not going to hide them,” Anakin declared. “But if that is what you and Yoda think, it would be best then that I…”
“No one is asking you to do that, Anakin,” Obi-Wan told him, cutting him off before he could make the offer to resign. He then turned to Master Windu and asked, “Isn’t that right, Master?”
Master Windu nodded in agreement with Obi-Wan. The presence of the children did make him uncomfortable, but it was not for the reason that they were most likely to believe. His feelings for Barriss had come to the surface and if their relationship continued on its natural course, then very soon he may have children of his own. The reality both thrilled and scared the hell out of him. He wasn’t sure if he was ready for that responsibility.
His expression softened as he looked back toward Skywalker’s children and almost gasped as he realized how powerful they both were in the Force. He had assumed they would both be strong, but he had hardly expected they would both radiate as strongly as their father and thus share his potential. It was both thrilling and terrifying to see their potential, knowing they were capable of everything there father was and perhaps more. They were a glimmer into the future of the New Jedi Order and Master Windu honestly liked what he saw. His own children would hopefully be just as strong and his legacy would be assured through them, instead of entirely through his teachings and accomplishments that future generation of Jedi would try to emulate.
Master Windu found such a future very promising indeed.
“I apologize,” Master Windu said to both Anakin and Padme. “This exchange between us just goes to show how difficult of an adjustment this will be for all of us.”
“I understand,” Anakin replied. “This will be a difficult adjustment for many, I suspect.”
“Then why are you doing this?” Padme asked him openly. It a question that they all had been pondering about Master Windu since the beginning, and Padme particularly had difficulty believing that he really wanted things to change. Though his opinion about Anakin had clearly changed to support him, she wondered if he was doing this simply to curry the favor of the Grandmaster and not because he really believed in the change. His iron willed temperaments and cold callous behavior toward Padme revealed he was still having difficulty accepting this change and fundamentally his principles were against it. The Jedi Masters perceived that as well and sensed the dubiousness in what he was doing, believing that he was merely supporting this because it would guarantee that he would be the one to secede the Grandmaster after he was gone.
How wrong they truly were.
“Believe it or not, Anakin is not the only one who has a stake in this,” Master Windu revealed openly. He was not about to reveal his affections of Barriss to them or that his thoughts had been only of her since he had kissed her in the medical ward. He was in love with her and believed she felt the same way, though neither had conveyed that to each other beyond the kiss they shared. He also knew they would only cultivate a relationship if the barriers that forbade them to do so. Unlike Anakin and Padme, they were both high ranking Jedi Masters and Master Windu and were unwilling to sacrifice their futures or reputations for a forbidden relationship. The Code had to be abolished before Master Windu could act on his feelings and they could form a proper relationship; free of scandal or risk to their good standing within the Order.
“How so?” Padme pushed. “You’re not exactly renowned for being a renegade.”
“I have my reasons,” Master Windu replied stubbornly, with a hint of irritation growing behind his words. He was not used to being challenged like this and ordinarily would have snapped at anyone daring to question his integrity as Padme had just done. He held his tongue from saying anything nasty or demeaning, instead content on allowing Anakin’s strong willed wife to challenge him. “That is all you need to know.”
“What I really don’t understand is why it took the Jedi Order so long to change when it has always been in your power to do so?” Padme challenged further.
“True, but the will has never been there until now,” Master Windu answered.
“The Jedi Order is also very dedicated and depended to the traditions that hold us together,” Obi-Wan added. “It wasn’t until the prophecy was made over two hundred years ago that Jedi started to actually seriously consider bringing the Force into balance. But even then, the prophecy was not very popular and those who believed had to wait for the Chosen One to appear to bring them into balance. Finding Anakin was Qui-Gon’s crowning achievement and from the moment the Council agreed to allow me to train him, it set a course of events that prepared Anakin for this moment.”
“But no one believed in him until now,” Padme vented. “Except for Obi-Wan.”
“That’s not entirely true…”
“Yes it is!” Padme objected loudly to Obi-Wan, loud enough to make the Jedi all lurch back from the intensity of her soft voice. Despite her stature, she was one of the most formidable women Obi-Wan had ever met, with a strong will that only emboldened her more. Her leadership during the Naboo crisis was a testament to her character and was also one of the few who had no qualms about challenging the opinions of a Jedi Master. She then accused Master Windu, “You made Anakin’s life a living hell because he didn’t fit into your archetypal Jedi mold you wanted him to be and held him back from achieving his full potential, until now.”
“And you never trusted me…” Anakin said bitterly. “That hurt more than anything and it nearly drove me away.”
“We made you a Jedi Knight without requiring you to complete the Jedi Trials, did we not?” Master Windu challenged.
“Yeah,” Anakin acknowledged. “But…”
“And allowed you to become the youngest Jedi ever to be named to the Council.”
“I had to twist your arm to open the doors to me.”
“No, Palaptine did the twisting,” Master Windu reminded him. “It was always our intention to open our doors to you Anakin.”
“You could have fooled me,” Anakin said dryly.
“Gentlemen, please,” Obi-Wan interrupted. “Let’s not let old grudges ruin what we are trying to do here.”
Master Windu sighed with a pain of regret.
“Mistakes were made,” he admitted openly. “Perhaps we were wrong to expect you Anakin to rise up through the ranks like the perfect student and been more accepting of your uniqueness from the beginning. But I am also satisfied with the end result and that you have indeed become the Jedi you were destined to be.”
“Thank you, master,” Anakin said appreciatively. “It means a lot to hear you say that.”
“I am also certain those grey hairs on Master Kenobi’s head came from you Anakin,” Master Windu pointed out sarcastically.
“Indeed they did,” Obi-Wan said with a smile. “But I forgive you Anakin.”
“The truth of the matter is, we never trusted you Anakin because your conduct casted doubt that you really were the Chosen One. Need I remind you of what happened on Tatooine?”
“I need no reminder,” Anakin answered quickly.
The incident on Tatooine was the grimmest example of Anakin nearly succumbing to the dark side and Obi-Wan’s startled reaction revealed that he had never learned the horrible truth that had happened there. But Padme seemed calm expression told Master Windu that she was aware of what had happened and had knowingly lied when she gave her sworn statement to Chancellor Organa to vindicate Anakin. But Master Windu was willing to ignore what he had done, along with his other mistakes, because Anakin believed he was doing what was right and that the good intentions in him never wavered. Anakin had also matured a lot after being named to the council and Master Windu recognized from his own experiences that the demands and responsibilities of the position forced the individual to not only become a leader, but a role model as well for future Jedi Knights to emulate. It was also the first test the Council really challenged him with by giving him power, though limited, and seeing what he did with it. Coming to his aid and helping him destroy Sidious proved he could be trusted, leading up to this moment.
Master Windu allowed the incident on Tatooine to be dropped and continued: “Yoda and I also feared you would be unable to resist the temptation of the dark side. We never doubted your skills or dedication to the Order, but we did seriously question if you would be able handle all that power you wielded appropriately and not allow it to corrupt or consume you, as it very nearly did when you had to chose between allowing me to carry out my duty or saving Palpatine. The choice you made vindicated you Anakin as the Chosen One.”
“Master Windu, you know that I have not always been the embodiment of the Jedi Order. I will even admit that there are instances in my life where I give in to my fears and anger, like on Tatooine after what had happened to my mother,” Anakin confided with all those present. “I don’t know if I can ever truly become the ideal Jedi you need me to be.”
“I appreciate your candor, Anakin,” Master Windu replied. “But I am not confident that you are what every Jedi should aspire to be. It is how you use those emotions Anakin that truly makes them dark or good. Yoda and I can teach you Anakin how to better control those dark feelings inside you as Yoda and I have dabbled into the dark arts ourselves. It is how were able to save Master Ki-Adi from death.”
“Master Ki-Adi survived his wounds?” Kenobi asked stunned.
Anakin could not believe what he was hearing as what Palpatine had told him at the theatre was true as the Dark Side could save the ones he loved, even from death. Such power did exist and the Jedi knew how to wield it.
“Master Barriss became a conduit of the Force while Master Yoda and I projected ourselves onto her allowing her to restore his health.” Master Windu could tell that the revelation of saving Ki-Adi had a strong impact on both Jedi Masters. “It has always been a misconception that unnatural acts performed with the force were a gateway to the dark side, however, that view is another aspect in which we wish to change.”
“Is it possible to learn this power?” Anakin asked openly, revealing how much he still dwelled on the ability and hungrily wished to learn it.
“It is,” Master Windu acknowledged. He then paused, before cautioning him, “That is, if you can handle it.”
“I believe I can.”
“Good,” Master Windu said approvingly.
Obi-Wan changed the subject back to more pressing concerns by asking, “Where is Yoda?”
“He is indisposed at the moment,” Master Windu told them.
“Doing what?” Anakin asked skeptically, while he wondered what could possibly be more important at the moment than his future. The Grandmaster had also become reclusive and spent most of his time inside the temple’s walls in seclusion while Master Windu took upon himself most of responsibilities for running the Order. Though Yoda still attended official state functions and had led the Republic Forces at the Battle of Kashyyyk and Kamino, he was regarded now as a figurehead of the Jedi Order. There was simply nothing more he needed to accomplish to preserve his legacy and Anakin suspected after this council session that Yoda would finally retire and head off into the sunset as the greatest Jedi of all time.
“Preserving your good name,” Master Windu answered. “Both he and the Chancellor have gone to the Coruscant Current to demand a retraction to the story released about you.”
“I see,” Obi-Wan answered carefully. “The timing couldn’t have possibly been any worse.”
“I know, but he had no choice.”
Master Windu took his seat and the Jedi Masters followed suit, including Padme who took a seat as well. He did not raise any objections to her joining them and hoped to smooth her over by including her entirely in the discussion. She also seemed to have a calming effect on Anakin and seeing them hold hands only reinforced that their bond strengthened Anakin during this difficult time. He hoped that he would be able to form a similar bond with Barriss.
“What is about to take place will not be easy,” Master Windu told them openly. “Master Yoda will be proposing changes to the Jedi Council that will go well beyond just keeping you apart of the Jedi Order.”
“Exactly what does that mean?” Obi-Wan asked directly.
“Everything is about to change.” Mace revealed. “What Yoda is going to propose is the total obliteration of the Jedi Code and found a new Jedi Order in its place. Anything short of that will be a failure.”
“Abolishing the code is really what this is all about then?” Padme asked.
“That is correct,” Master Windu answered her. “If we abolish the code, then Anakin has committed no crime and he will not be asked to leave the Order. The prophecy will also be fulfilled and a brave new future will be before us.”
“What must I do, Master?” Anakin asked respectfully.
“You’ve done all that’s required,” Master Windu replied. He then explained, “Your marriage with Senator Amidala directly challenges the Jedi Code and your actions of helping me deal with Sidious has proven to me beyond a doubt that you truly are the Chosen One. No one doubts the prophecy any longer or that you are the one destined to bring balance to the Force.”
“Is Anakin to be the example for this new generation of Jedi?” Padme asked hopefully. She understood completely what Master Yoda had proposed and it clearly made her happy that the Jedi were prepared to change so drastically in order to usher in a new era of change. If this all worked out, her marriage would no longer have to be hidden and they could publicly declare their love for each other without fear of any consequences.
“Yes,” Master Windu acknowledged. “The Jedi Order before the time of the Sith was much different than it is today. Jedi were allowed to live what you might call ordinary lives where they loved, knew their parents, and had self-indulgences. But the earliest Jedi could not balance their feelings with their powers and resulted in first Sith war that ushered in an era of anarchy between those who gave into what is now known as the dark side of the Force and the Jedi who remained committed to the ideals of the Republic. The Jedi Masters that survived convened after they defeated the first Sith Lord, Exar Kun and believed that a strict code of conduct was needed to prevent any future Jedi to become Sith.”
“Look how that turned out,” Anakin replied sarcastically.
The Jedi Masters both turned to him in irritation and even Padme sighed in response to what he said. He wished he could learn from Padme or Obi-Wan how to keep his mouth shut and not say everything that came into his thick head.
“I’m just making a point,” Anakin protested. “I can name at least 3 Sith right now who were former Jedi that turned to the dark side, Count Dooku being one of them.”
“Only three is not bad considering how many Jedi have been raised and trained inside these walls,” Master Windu pointed out. “But regardless of that fact, not all Jedi warmly accepted this code and there has always been someone from each generation who openly challenged it, Qui-Gon being the last and Dooku before him. When the prophecy of the Chosen was first made, it was foretold that the Chosen One would do more than balance the Force, but bring balance to the Jedi Order itself. That prophecy has led us to this moment and depending on what the council decides here today, it will determine the future of the Jedi Order.”
Master Windu then began to discuss how the council meeting would proceed.
“Because the nature of the meeting involves you Anakin breaking the Jedi code, you must know that the consequences if we fail to convince all eleven acting Jedi Masters to accept Master Yoda’s proposal. If we fail, you will have no choice but to resign, otherwise the Jedi Council will proceed against you under the existing guidelines of the Jedi Order. Do you understand.”
Anakin nodded his head that he understood and then expressed to him, “I understand Master Windu, but know that I will no longer keep the marriage to my wife a secret and if necessary will leave the Jedi Order for her and my family.” Anakin then wrapped his arm around his wife as she truly was the most important person in his life.
“Then let us hope that will not be necessary,” Obi-Wan said hopefully. He then looked back at Master WIndu and asked, “How far are we prepared to go to bring balance the Jedi Order.”
“We will do what we must,” Master Windu swore to them. There was no limit that Master Yoda had placed on how far he was willing to go and Master Windu had the same resolve as the Grandmaster and was prepared to use extreme measures to ensure this happened, short of anything violent.
“I will also do whatever it takes,” Obi-Wan declared openly, though no one was surprised to his devotion to Anakin and that he was expected to. There was no doubt that he would be Anakin’s strongest supporter in the Council chamber and also would be the one willing to risk the most to keep Anakin apart of the Order.
“Then we are well on our way to fulfilling the prophecy as our convictions I feel will be enough to convince the rest of the Council that the Force must be balanced,” Master Windu said optimistically.
“What of Yoda?” Obi-Wan said more insistently. “Will he be back in time to lead this council session or not?”
Regardless of how they regarded the iron willed Jedi Master and how much they trusted him, they all knew that Yoda was the only figure who could actually bring about this change.
“He will be here,” Master Windu expressed adamantly. It clearly bothered him that they didn’t think he could lead this Council Session if it came to that, but also knew that this wouldn’t be possible without Yoda being the guiding light behind it. “The Chancellor will also be present,” Master Windu added. “To show his support for you Anakin and will speak on your behalf.”
“Is that wise?” Obi-Wan asked hesitantly.
“Yoda has allowed it and he will be allowed to speak,” Master Windu dictated, as he always did to indicate there was no debating the issue. “He wished to take the opportunity to apologize to you Anakin before the Council for ordering your arrest. He genuinely is sorry for his part in it and it is important that you are receptive to his apology Anakin. We can ill afford a rift with the Chancellor during these dark times.”
“I am not angry with him about it and did only what he thought was right,” Anakin replied openly. “Besides; he ordered my release that put me in a position where I could come to the Order’s rescue with reinforcements. Had he not done that, it is very possible we would all be dead right now.”
“I am pleased to hear you say that,” Master Windu expressed.
“It’s the truth,” Anakin replied with a shrug. Undoubtedly; he would have felt differently if something had happened to Padme, his children, or Obi-Wan. Many Knights had been killed, but that wasn’t the Chancellor’s fault and he couldn’t blame him for all their deaths.
Master Windu then turned to Padme and told her, “You will also be welcomed to join us during the council session and believe your presence will benefit our cause greatly.”
“Did Master Yoda approve that as well?”
“No, I am the one inviting you,” Master Windu told her, hoping the invitation would help soothe the tensions between them. “Though I am certain Yoda will approve of your invitation.”
Padme was indeed surprised by the invention.
“Well, thank you,” she expressed warmly. “I accept your invitation.”
“Good,” Master Windu acknowledged. “You will be welcomed warmly within our sacred chamber. That much I promise”
Padme additionally requested, “I would like the opportunity to speak as well so that the Jedi Order can see what is missing from their lives by choosing not openly express their love for each other.”
“I don’t think that is a good idea,” Master Windu cautioned. “The Jedi Council may feel uncomfortable if too many outsiders intrude upon Jedi affairs during such a sensitive issue. We are already treading over the other Master sensibilities by allowing Chancellor Organa to speak.”
“My wife is no outsider,” Anakin objected. “Not anymore.”
“I understand that, but…”
“We will need more than just Senator Amidala’s presence, but her voice if we are to be successful,” Obi-Wan declared, interrupting Master Windu before he could fully state is objection. “Like or not, Padme is now a part of this Order and we must include her if we are to truly forge a new age. I don’t see it succeeding any other way.”
“Very well,” Master Windu conceded. There was no way he was going to win this argument and would only alienate Padme further if he refused her. “But I will have to run this by Yoda before I can allow it.”
“Of course,” Padme agreed. “I would never think of saying anything without his blessing.”
“One voice we will certainly need to speak is yours Master Kenobi. Frankly; I don’t see this succeeding without your firm convictions supporting Anakin.”
“I have no intentions on remaining silent,” Obi-Wan said with a wink. He needed no encouragement to speak his mind in a session so critical to the Jedi’s future.
“Try not to sound too much like your former teacher,” Master Windu warned. “We don’t want to bring defiance from your words instead of enlightenment.”
“I understand master.”
“Good. We have less than two-hours to prepare for this session and we must now go over the procedure that must be followed.”
They all nodded in understanding. With a meeting as critical as this, the slightest slip up might doom it from the start and it was crucial that they each knew what would be required of them.
“The most important thing is that Yoda must retain control over the session at all times,” Master Windu told them gravely. “It is crucial that Yoda retains control over the proceeding, otherwise I have no doubt that Ki-Adi will attempt to use a filibuster that will block this motion permanently. No matter what happens, you must back everything Yoda says or does and prepare to follow any move he chooses to make. Is that clear?”
They all acknowledged Master Windu, alerting them they understood that part of it perfectly clear.
“Remember; this motion requires must be unanimously approved by all the acting Jedi Masters on the council,” Master Windu reminded them. “If even one Master dissents from voting in favor, then the motion will be defeated and Anakin will be forced to resign. Is that clear?”
“Is Yoda’s leadership going to be enough to sway all the Jedi Masters to ratify this?” Padme asked skeptically. She had a lifetime of political experience under her belt and saw how daunting this challenge truly was, considering they had to make all the Masters agree to it. It was impossible to make such a radical change of the system within the Republic because there were simply too many Senators who have to agree to it. Historically; the only way to truly change a government was to rebel from it, allow it to collapse under its own bloated weight, or appoint new leadership to change things. The Republic was currently undergoing such a transition, going from the Imperialistic Palpatine to the Republican Organa – who promised to restore the traditional Republic values and ideals. For Padme to be a part of this event was beyond thrilling, knowing that history could be made here today and that a Dawn of a New Age was truly at hand.
“Yoda’s presence alone will convince most of the masters to commit to this,” Master Windu told her honestly.
“But the real challenge will be to convince the hardliners like Ki-Adi, Luminara, and Plo Koon to accept this motion without compromising their integrity. If we can convince them that the ideals of the Jedi Order will not be tarnished by this change, then I suspect that even Ki-Adi will have difficulty opposing it.”
“Will concessions have to be made?” Padme asked carefully. She found it difficult to believe that such a measure could pass without appeasing the hardliners and was certain sacrifices would have to be made to see this through.
Master Windu dashed those fears by declaring, “No concessions will be made. This will be a take it or leave it proposition for the Jedi Masters to decide upon, that much was made clear to me by Yoda who will settle for nothing less than their full support for this measure.”
“Hold on,” Obi-Wan objected. This was highly unusual because even in their system there were always deals being made on the Council to garner support for a measure or concessions made to get things done. It was true that Yoda’s position as Grand Master allowed him to dictate policy to the masters, but this was the first time he actually used his authority to dictate his will upon them all. Even someone as beloved as Yoda would be opposed fundamentally by the Masters like Ki-Adi who would not be dictated too and if they tried to force this measure on the ranks, it might very well split the Jedi Order in two. It would be the greatest dishevel in the Jedi ranks in five-thousand years, since the day the Sith broke away to form their own religion. “How do you possibly expect the Jedi Masters to go along with this if they are going to be dictated to like this?”
“This is a choice Obi-Wan,” Master Windu corrected. “Yoda is not dictating anything, only forcing them to make a choice between: Accepting this change and allowing Anakin to bring balance to the Force or doing nothing and keeping the Jedi Code the way it is. With everything that has just transpired and how close we came to annihilation, all the masters are going to want change and bringing balance to the Force is the only way to insure our survival.”
“But how are you going to convince them of that?” Obi-Wan pressed him.
“That is where you come in, Anakin.”
“Me?” Anakin asked cluelessly.
“Yes you,” Master Windu told him. “It will be challenging to bring upon this change to the Jedi Order, which is why you have been chosen to lead this change and to personify it. You now have the respect and trust of all the Masters for what you did here today, but now you must go one step forward to show them that you are the one, not Yoda, who will lead them into a new age of balance and enlightenment. This is why Yoda is right now at the Coruscant Current attempting to preserve your good name, because without it no one will follow you as the Chosen One. You must become the Jedi you were destined to be Anakin. If you can do that, I believe it will sway even Ki-Adi to follow you and you will then be able to fulfill the prophecy and bring balance to the Force.
“I will do so,” Anakin replied confidently. If there was one thing Anakin was never short of, it was confidence and Obi-Wan knew he would need to rely on that now, more than ever if he was to see this through.
“When the meeting begins you will place your lightsaber on a small circular table which will be placed in the center of the room as required for violating the code,” Master Windu explained to him. “You then have the right to make a statement before any judgment upon you is to take place. Use that statement to sway the Jedi Masters to allow you to fulfill the prophecy and bring balance to the Force. Ultimately; it will be their faith in you Anakin that will decide this and if they believe you truly can lead them to a better future, then I have no doubt that we can make this dream a reality. But everything depends on you Anakin. You must make them believe and commit yourself to doing what must be done to fulfill the prophecy. Do you understand?”
“Yes Master, I understand.” Anakin acknowledged.
“There is no turning back once we start down this path,” Master Windu warned him. “I want to be clear that we will be expecting you not just to fulfill the prophecy, but to truly live up to the legacy of the Chosen One. We are all counting on you Anakin to lead us to a new age and you will set the example for us to follow. I’ll be holding you accountable Anakin for your actions and expect your best from this point on.”
“I understand,” Anakin swore. “I won’t fail you.”
“No Anakin, don’t fail yourself,” Obi-Wan corrected him.
Anakin turned to Obi-Wan and nodded in understanding. He had heard those words said from his former master hundreds of times, but this time the meaning of the words clicked and knew that his greatest enemy was really himself. He had nearly plunged to the dark side several times during his life and had barely managed to keep the temptation at bay when he allowed Master Windu to destroy Palpatine. What he did know for certain was that his power was continuing to grow and that soon he would be even more powerful than Yoda. All he lacked was experience to use that power and the control to use it. Once he possessed those two things, he would be unstoppable and be able to not just bring balance to the Force, but bring peace to the galaxy and destroy the Sith forever.
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Milteck
Registered:
Jul '06
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Date Posted:
9/17 10:22pm
Subject:
CH 44
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Coruscant Current - Kiat Feyla’s executive office
The mood of the chief executive officer Kiat Feyla was bitter and seething mad at the Chancellor for allowing this calamity for befalling the Republic – more specifically allowing the precious communication tower to be sabotaged. The communications disruption was costing the Coruscant millions of credits for each hour the system was down and it couldn’t have come at a worse time. Kiat was forced to sit on the story of the century about Anakin Skywalker and undoubtedly his competitors would have similar stories ready to broadcast the moment the communication systems were restored. Only the numbing drag produced from each puff of spice he inhaled kept him from flipping out entirely.
This would never have happened if Palpatine was still in power and was saddened to learn that his attempt to return to power had failed.
In response to this crisis, Kiat had hired a top team of communication experts and sent them to the Republic facility and help with the repairs, with the emphasis that the Coruscant Current’s service would be turned back on first. But because the communications that had been knocked out were in a Republic controlled facility, they did not allow any private repair teams to assist and it only lengthened the delays because their priority would be to restore Republic services first, the private sectors second. Even the bribes he paid out to top officials failed to produce results got nothing in return and every time he tried to reach out to the Chancellor, he was told he was unavailable and was dealing with matters of Galactic security.
He took in another long drag of spice into his lungs as he considered the flip side to this situation.
If he could secure the communications and arrange it so that his newscast would be the first to magically come back on, then his ratings would be astronomical and make up for any losses he was currently incurring. Bribes were already sent to those key individuals who could make that happen, but even they were shackled to the will of the Chancellor and his time table for restoring communications. Regardless of how things went, he was going make sure that the Republic knew just what a blunder this entire situation was and do his best to make Chancellor Organa received the worst blunt of criticism. A story advocating the return of Palpatine to power would certainly be well received by the citizens of Coruscant and when the system was restored he would run it in a double feature along with the story about Skywalker.
It would be well received indeed and the ratings alone would easily make up for the profits they were losing now.
The sound of the doors sliding open interrupted his plotting as his brother entered with an exasperated look on his face. Kiat quickly tried to conceal his spice pipe by dropping it into desk drawer and slamming it shut before his brother could see what was really going on. Fortunately the pipe was designed to automatically snuff itself out the moment it left his hand and only fretted losing the precious commodity of spice in the pipe that would now be wasted. His efforts also were for naught because his brother knew well about his addiction and it made his face even gloomier to see his obese, spice addict of a twin brother slowly destroying himself.
“I told you I was not to be disturbed!” Kiat bellowed out irritably as he had directly ordered Tiat not to bother him while he tried to figure out a way to fix this situation. In truth, all he wanted to do was get high.
Tiat ignored his ravings and instead walked completely into the room defiantly until he stood at his side, while his fat lazy ass brother sat in his father’s chair while the company around them was quickly crumbing all around them.
“What is it you want?” Kiat finally spat out irritably.
“I just thought you would like to know that the Supreme Chancellor himself has arrived.”
“Arrived here?” Feyla asked in disbelief.
“Along with Grandmaster Yoda,” Tiat added. “They demand an immediate audience with you.”
“So my bribes were not completely wasted,” Kiat nodded approvingly. “Now we will get to the bottom of this and can resolve a timetable for restoring our signal.”
“They do not look pleased,” Tiat cautioned. “In fact; I would say they look downright angry, no doubt caused from the story we ran about Anakin Skywalker.”
“I don’t care,” Kiat told him. He forced himself to stand up from the chair he had been sitting in all day. “It serves them right.”
“I urge caution brother,” Tiat warned him. “I remind you these are the two most powerful beings in the Republic.”
“We’ll see how powerful they are after I destroy their reputations and legacies,” Kiat bellowed happily. “The Grandmaster is a cripple and Organa is a puppet of the Jedi, as well as a peace monger.”
“I beg you to cooperate with them brother. The future of the Coruscant is at stake and we must act accordingly.”
“Precisely!” Kiat exclaimed. “We have two news stories that will make us bigger and richer than ever before.” Without
caring, he pulled back out his spice pipe and began to smoke the tantalizing drug that made him feel even better.
“Offer to kill the story about Skywalker in exchange for getting our signal restored before anyone else,” Tiat told him. “It’s the only way we can recover from this without being financially ruined.”
“Brother there is a reason why father made me the executive officer of the Coruscant instead of you and it’s precisely that kind of thinking that made you weak in his eyes,” Kiat taunted him ominously. He took in another long drag of spice and then blew at his brother a smoke ring that made him gag. “I will either blackmail them to turn the juice back on or threaten to ruin their reputations to achieve the same result. Either way; they’ll give in and we will be back in business within the hour.”
“I hope your right.” Tiat told him with disgust.
“I know I am,” Kiat replied happily.
Kiat’s temperament changed completely as what an opportunity this was to talk directly to the most powerful man in the Republic and perhaps he could work something out with him to get communications turned back on in a certain way. Master Yoda coming was not as welcomed as he knew that he could only want to discuss one issue and Kiat did not care what the esteemed cripple thought of the news story he published. In the end; he would be the one who would make out after all of this and would be richer and more powerful than ever before. He happily took in two more drags of spice, before putting it away.
“Well what are you waiting for?” Kiat yelled irritably at his dimwit brother. His brother was just too respectable for this line of work and would honestly have to consider removing him before he could question his authority again. “Bring them up here!”
Tiat gave him a disapproving look before he turned to carry out his brothers orders. When he returned, both Yoda and Chancellor Organa were behind him. His brother was correct when he told him they did not look pleased to be here and it made him smile at the thought of them squirming before him as he dictated his terms.
As they entered Kiat got up and walked around his desk to greet the Chancellor as he extended his hand saying, “I hope that you being here means that the communication lines will soon be opened.”
Chancellor Organa had to fight the instinct to physically hurt this overweight Bothan that so rudely insulted him. How dare he speak to him like this and not greet him appropriately in a manner that would be respective to his office. He however simply shook his hand as he put his years of political courtesy in practice as he calmly replied, “Well there is a problem as to how long it will take for the communication lines to be restored but we hope to settle that issue right now.”
Kiat felt awkward by that comment as he let go of the Chancellor’s hand and could see that clearly they wanted something from him. To what they wanted was easy to guess as he then turned to the crippled Jedi Master and couldn’t help but snicker while extending his hand to him as well, “It is a pleasure to meet you as well, but I was ill prepared for your visit and do not have a chair tall enough for you to sit in.”
Master Yoda was not amused and was not about to perform any act of courtesy as he simply crossed his arms and dryly, “Request special treatment, I did not.”
Chancellor Organa had to further contain any thoughts that went through his head about this man as not only was he filthy but his entire existence was to profit by exposing the dirty secrets of celebrities. So many of his esteemed colleagues at the Senate had been blackmailed and harassed by stories that sometimes were greatly distorted to make them worse than they actually were. The story about Anakin Skywalker was just one more that was published with the intent not to inform or educate but to openly destroy the character of one of the most respected men of the entire Republic.
“Let me get to the point.” Chancellor Organa stated dryly without taking the seat that Kiat offered to him, “You have printed a news story about Jedi Master Skywalker which was both detrimental to his character and contained a story completely fictitious about how he butchered innocent Tuskans.”
“We stand by our story 100% and do have sources to back up what we have reported.” Kiat said confidently with a smug smile on his face that one might compare to a burglar whom was now smiling after completing a successful heist. His brother Tiat stood confidently be his side and at least appeared to be loyal, but Kiat now knew he was sympathetic to the grievance of Chancellor Organa and Master Yoda. Tiat was only concerned with saving the reputation of Coruscant Current and not about the profits that kept the agency afloat year after year.
“If sources you have then why did you thoughtlessly not include them to support your claim about Master Skywalker slaughtering Tuskans?” Yoda asked as he was now the one smiling at Kiat as he knew he had no evidence of any kind to support his claim.
Kiat however was not about to be intimidated our out maneuvered as he pulled out the folder they had received and tossed it on the desk to reveal the pictures of Anakin kissing his wife. “We have all the evidence we will ever need to convince anyone of his secret marriage with the additional story provided by the source who unanimously sent that file to us that Master Skywalker had butchered Tuskans on Tatooine.”
“That doesn’t sound like reasonable evidence to me?” Chancellor Organa rebuked.
“Well that’s the beautiful thing about the freedom of speech Chancellor," Kiat dryly replied. "Sometimes you can say things without necessarily having all the facts to back them up. As you just did, I am very confident our readers will be able to determine for themselves what is and what is not the truth.”
“You can justify this story anyway you like, but you are not going to get away with it this time and here is why.” Chancellor Organa then opened his comlink and asked the Clone Commander who was overseeing the communication network being restored, “Have you isolated the sub routine commander in the central communication net that directly feeds the broadcasts from Coruscant Current headquarters to the central grid?”
“Yes Chancellor we have.” The Commander replied.
Kiat did not understanding just where this threat was going. However when he heard it his reaction turned to complete horror as Chancellor Organa dryly ordered, “Prepare to destroy that sub routine upon my order.”
“You can’t do that!” Kiat yelled out as he was now very upset and standing up behind his desk as he looked as if he might actually try to fight the Chancellor.
“Yes I can.” Chancellor Organa replied joyful as he allowed himself to savor each moment as this vile Bothan was growing more upset. This would be a sweet victory for not just Anakin Skywalker but for every figure that had by tarnished all in the name for ratings. “And I will unless you agree to completely retract the story about Anakin Skywalker killing Tuskans, I will give the Order.”
“If you severe our link to the communications I assure you Chancellor that I will use every resource available to me to insure that you will be impeached from office.”
Chancellor Organa smiled sinisterly, enjoying every moment of this, as he replied, “I am afraid the only evidence concerning your destroyed communication link will be as a result of the saboteurs whom broke into the facility and dismantled it. I have a legion of technicians who will swear over and over that your link was severed due to the sabotage.”
“Yes but you have told us Chancellor of your plan in addition to the recording devices throughout my room which have recorded in detail how you are attempting to blackmail my news agency.” Kiat now replied confidently as he revealed the activation all of his recording devices the moment they entered.
“Not working I fear your monitoring devices are,” Yoda told him with a wink. Unknown to the Bothan, Yoda had used the Force to find them all and disable them the moment they had entered the room.
Tiat examined the one closest to him which actually engrained into the wall and molded into a painting to truly conceal it in the room. Tiat shook his head in disbelief as he announced to Kiat, “He is correct they do not seem to be operational.”
“How can that be?” Kiat asked ignorantly as he activated his panel on his desk and began to sort through all sixteen of his randomly placed spying devices and all of them showed nothing but static or error messages.
“So as you can see, I feel it will be in your best interest if you agree simply to retract your news story about Anakin killing the Tuskans.” Chancellor Organa put additional pressure on him by stating, “It would be such a shame if your news agency was unable to transmit for however many months it may take for your connection to be reestablished.”
"This is something Palpatine would have done," Kiat protested.
"No, Palpatine would have had you and your brother killed," Chancellor Organa corrected.
“You cannot silence us forever,” Kiat replied defensively. He believed the Chancellor was merely bluffing, but either way he would refuse to cooperate out of spite and would allow the Chancellor to do what he was threatening as sooner or later he would be back and make it his life’s work to destroy the Chancellor’s image.
“Perhaps not silence, but how long do you think it will take before your subscribers forget completely about you while many of your employees will seek work at your competitors? In less than a month your large communications empire will bankrupt itself trying to stay afloat and by the time my capable technicians manage to restore your link there may not be a Coruscant Current left to use it.” Chancellor Organa allowed him to enjoy every moment of watching the fat Bothan squirm and knew he had him precisely where he wanted him.
Kiat could not believe it as Chancellor Organa had him cornered and it was not a comfortable place he was accustomed to being in. He however was not about to go forward without trying to gain some concessions from the Chancellor as he offered, “If you truly wish for me to retract this news story then I feel the Republic could be generous by allowing perhaps just the Coruscant Current to be allowed to broadcast which would allow us to serve our ends by making large profits while serving yours by truly clearing Anakin.”
“This is not a negotiation,” Chancellor Organa dictated. “All news agencies will be allowed to transmit at exactly the same time. I will not allow any news agency to have a competitive edge over another simply by being the first back on the air.”
Tiat however had a solution that would satisfy both parties and suggested, “In exchange for doing as you request Chancellor, all we would request in return is an exclusive interview Chancellor where you can discuss the transition of power from Palpatine to yourself. You can discuss openly on your agenda for peace and restoration of the Separatists to the Republic.”
Chancellor Organa had not expected this and he seriously considered it as he wished to give a formal interview to the trashiest news agency in the galaxy. Giving an exclusive interview to the Coruscant Current was not exactly what he had in mind but if it served his purpose here today then there was only one answer he could give.
“If I agree to this, than understand that I will only allow myself to be interviewed by one of your most respected journalists and that all questions will be screened before the interview.” Chancellor Organa then waited to hear what Kiat’s reaction would be as he still appeared to be highly irritated at being bullied into submission.
His brother however was quick to accept his offer saying, “Of course Chancellor this interview can be conducted in any manner you wish, as long as the interview is exclusive to only our news agency.”
“I want to hear that from Kiat himself,” Chancellor Organa demanded. He enjoyed every moment of this as Kiat continued to squirm and was poetic justice to ruin the man responsible for destroying the reputation of so many of his closest friends.
Kiat refused to give him his assurance and simply sat in his chair like a child whom was pouting for not getting that toy he wanted. He simply sat their silently staring at his desk, all but giving Chancellor Organa the impression he was not going to comply.
“Very well.” Chancellor Organa stated loudly as he turned to leave. “It appears that I have my answer and regret that we could not resolve this issue in a civilized manner.” Chancellor Organa then opened his comlink and stated, “Commander you are authorized…”
“Wait!!!” Tiat cried out and Chancellor Organa turned his comlink off as Tiat then turned to his brother and yelled. “I am invoking my right Kiat in our family charter to claim leadership of the family business for failing to protect its best interests over your own.”
Kiat looked up at his brother in complete horror as he cried out, “Alright fine I will agree to the Chancellor request.”
“It is too late for that.” Chancellor Organa stated flatly as he heard clearly Tiat Feyla take possession of the Coruscant Current and legally recognized the declaration. “The CEO of the Coruscant Current is now Tiat Feyla and whom now I will await assurance that my interview will be conducted by your most professional journalist and all questions will be screened before the interview is to begin. I will guarantee the interview if and only if the first thing that is broadcasted is a full retraction of the story about Anakin butchering Tuskans by the Coruscant Current once the communication lines are reopened.”
Tiat nodded as he walked toward the Chancellor and extended his hand out to him as he stated, “You have a deal Chancellor.” As Tiat shook his hand he genuinely expressed, “Being that I am now the CEO of the Coruscant Current, I would like to genuinely express to you personally the blunder that was made by my predecessor by publishing this story. Under my leadership, I assure you that I will not tolerate such publishing practices and am committed to cleaning up the image of our news agency.”
Kiat was unable to speak and simply sat there in shock from what had happened. He was the one who was now disgraced and was stabbed in the back by his own brother who betrayed him.
“I am pleased to hear that.” Chancellor Organa replied to Tiat. He was genuinely impressed with what he had unexpectedly accomplished and would take Tiat Feyla at his word that he would stop the slanderous publishing practices of his news agency.
Tiat then turned to Master Yoda and extended his hand out to the Jedi Master saying, “I apologize for how rudely you were treated by my predecessor upon your arrival and would like to take this opportunity to also apologize to the Jedi Order for the story we published.”
“Accept your apology I do.” Yoda replied genuinely as he shook Tiat’s hand.
Tiat then hit a button that was on what was now his desk to call in security to deal with his brother as he then continued, “Understand, however, that the story about Master Skywalker and his marriage was completely verified and under no condition will we retract it.”
Chancellor Organa glanced over to Master Yoda to see his reaction and was delighted to see he was not going to challenge the story of Anakin’s marriage. Master Yoda nodded as he replied, “Satisfied I am with the retraction about the second story. Nothing further do I require.”
Tiat was pleased however he wished to extend to the Jedi Master a token of good will as he picked up the folder that had been dropped off and handed it with all its contents to the Jedi Master as he expressed, “Then please take this as it contained all the sources we used for the story about Master Skywalker’s marriage, in addition to story written to describe his barbarism with the Tuskans. That folder was delivered to this station unanimously and all attempts to try and identify the sender have failed. However you may more luck then we have.”
“Look into it, we will.” Master Yoda accepted the folder and would indeed use all resources available to him to determine exactly where it had come from. Now that Darth Sidious was resurrected he had no doubt he had been the man ultimately responsible and that it was one of his minions whom had delivered it.
As Yoda accepted the folder Tiat smiled as he announced, “By accepting that Master Yoda, I consider this matter between us now closed.” He then turned to Chancellor Organa and inquisitively asked, “When should I be expecting communications restored so that we can make good on our end of the bargain and transmit our retraction.”
Chancellor Organa was impressed with Tiat Feyla and how he had taken control of this situation. He wondered however if Tiat Feyla would be as polite if the Chancellor did not have his finger on a button that would destroy his company if he had refused to comply with the retraction of the news story. He genuinely replied, “Communication lines will be reopened in roughly two hours. Upon confirming that retraction was officially broadcast you will then be contacted by my aid Sheltay Retrac whom will schedule the time for our interview. With our business now concluded, we must now take our leave as Master Yoda and I have important business elsewhere to attend to.”
Tiat had allowed himself to be consumed in the moment of taking over the company as he had completely neglected his guests as he stood back up and prepared to walk the Chancellor out. “I must again apologize for the actions of my brother and assure you that as a news agency we are going to stop the slanderous news reporting that we were most known for during my brother’s leadership of the company. Your interview will be the stepping stone in which we reestablish our self to a commitment of excellence in journalism.”
“That pleases me.” Chancellor Organa replied genuinely as Tiat once again extended his hand out to the Chancellor whom found himself gladly shaking it with a genuine smile on his face. He then once again shook the hand of Master Yoda while saying, “If you would also express to the Jedi Council Master Yoda my deepest regret for what was done by my news agency and also to the family of Master Skywalker for whatever pain we have caused them.”
“I will.” Master Yoda said solemnly as he shook the Bothan’s hand. Both the Chancellor and Master Yoda left feeling they had accomplished something far better then just securing the retraction to the news story about Anakin. Master Yoda especially felt affected as he believed that he brought balance to this news agency which had become corrupt under Kiat Feyla’s leadership.
A moment later, the double doors slid back open and two large Trandoshens entered the room dressed in black security uniforms. Tiat acknowledged their presence and ordered, “You are to remove my brother Kiat from the building at once. I have removed him from office and taken over control of the company.”
The Trandoshens grunted as they walked into the room and made their way to the desk where Kiat continued to remain sitting in his pouting position. When he refused to cooperate, Tiat ordered him to be dragged out, allowing the Trandoshens to reach down and grab his arms that forced him to stand up despite his attempts to resist as he simply refused to move a muscle. The Trandoshens might have roughed him up a bit had their employment dictated they not physically harm their prey. They rescinded their naturally tendencies as they simply began to drag him out of the room as Kiat yelled out, “This is not over Tiat!!!” As he was completely dragged out of the room he yelled out even louder, “I made this news agency what it is and I can destroy it just as easily!”
Tiat was disgusted as he had been against publishing the Tuskan story in the first place in addition to all the slimy and dirty news stories Kiat had forced the news agency to publish over the years. He had turned the reputable news agency that had belonged to his father into one of the filthiest in the galaxy. Tiat vowed that starting today he would change things starting with the retraction and then followed by Chancellor Organa’s interview in which he would personally conduct himself to insure of its professionalism.
“I think not,” Tiat retorted. He then pushed all the trash and junk that was on his father’s desk completely off the side crashing loudly which startled Master Yoda as he could feel the sudden burst of anger that was emitted from Tiat. Tiat did not seem to notice as he enjoyed the moment as he sat down in the chair that had belonged to his father and every other chief executive officer of the Coruscant Current before him.
Tiat Feyla meanwhile sat back down in his chair and began to officially type the retraction as he continually muttered to himself, “I will make things right. I will make things better.” He had turned a situation where his company was nearly destroyed to now his company would be reborn under his leadership and different focus for how they performed their craft of journalism. Though it did bother him in the manner of how the Chancellor threatened to destroy his company, he knew it had only come to that point due to greed by his brother by publishing the story about Anakin butchering Tuskans. He would personally ensure that the Coruscant Current would never again report such filth or its very existence threatened like this again.
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megacrafter2
Registered:
Dec '07
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Date Posted:
9/17 11:45pm
Subject:
RE: Dawn of a New Age:An AU of ROTS-if Anakin allowed Mace to kill Sidious - updated 9/17
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Good build up to the council and interaction with the reporters, i wonder will Kiat play a role later on, and how will the council meeting turn out.
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Ocelotl_Nesto
Registered:
Oct '04
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Date Posted:
9/18 10:36am
Subject:
RE: Dawn of a New Age:An AU of ROTS-if Anakin allowed Mace to kill Sidious - updated 9/17
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I enjoyed the end of Kiat...
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VaderLVR64
Title: Fan Fic Manager in Combat Boots
Registered:
Feb '04
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Date Posted:
9/18 2:52pm
Subject:
RE: Dawn of a New Age:An AU of ROTS-if Anakin allowed Mace to kill Sidious - updated 9/17
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Okay, I think I'm FINALLY caught up! Loving this! 
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If you have to choose between tears and laughter, remember that laughter burns more calories. Army Mom! HOOAH! Adopt a soldier: http://soldiersangels.org/
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Raptor517
Registered:
Sep '06
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Date Posted:
9/18 6:57pm
Subject:
RE: Dawn of a New Age:An AU of ROTS-if Anakin allowed Mace to kill Sidious - updated 9/17
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And Kiat bites the dust! I like it...
Speaking of comebacks, I should finally be posting again tomorrow.
Raptor517
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Darth_Nellie
Registered:
Jul '08
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Date Posted:
9/19 1:01pm
Subject:
RE: Dawn of a New Age:An AU of ROTS-if Anakin allowed Mace to kill Sidious - updated 9/17
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Hope that's the end of the slimy Kiat, but suspect that it isn't...
What an amazing update. Fingers crossed that the Jedi Council get with the times and vote in the necessary changes, as I worry for Anakin if they don't. But part of me is also worried about Mace Windu. Not only do I think he has taken it for granted that he will be the next Grandmaster, but he could also be reading into more in the romance department with Bariss than is really there.
Looking forward to the next chapter as always.
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Force_Chick
Registered:
May '08
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Date Posted:
9/20 7:37pm
Subject:
RE: Dawn of a New Age:An AU of ROTS-if Anakin allowed Mace to kill Sidious - updated 9/17
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Excellent update. I liked the interaction between all of the members of the meeting in the Counsel. Mace contemplating having children was hysterical.
I love Bail in this update. He is so formitable and Chancellor-like.
One thing gave me pause, children don't start to crawl until they are at least 6-8 mths old. Are Luke and Leia super Jedi babies? 
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When Facism comes to the United States, it will be wrapped in a flag and carrying a cross. - Sinclair Lewis
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RuneEisahn
Registered:
Jul '08
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Date Posted:
9/26 7:28am
Subject:
RE: Dawn of a New Age:An AU of ROTS-if Anakin allowed Mace to kill Sidious - updated 9/17
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I love it!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! You have done a fantastic job!!! Please add me to PM lisst.
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"So uncivilized."-Master Kenobi
Check out my story, Vector Prime:An Unfortunate Beginning
Also check out my new story, Chronicles of the Fellowship
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Darth_Kripp
Registered:
Oct '05
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Date Posted:
10/2 2:10am
Subject:
RE: Dawn of a New Age:An AU of ROTS-if Anakin allowed Mace to kill Sidious - updated 9/17
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Even the best people are good blackmailers...
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corman006
Registered:
May '08
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Date Posted:
10/5 11:56am
Subject:
RE: Dawn of a New Age:An AU of ROTS-if Anakin allowed Mace to kill Sidious - updated 9/17
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Milteck Just wanted to let you know that someone was trying to copy and paste your work on ff.net and they got the second chapter half pasted with the first... heres the link if it is not you who is posting it to ask the admins to take it down.
http://www.fanfiction.net/s/4559528/1/Dawn_of_a_New_Age
if it was you posting sorry to disturb your uploads but i know a lot of people get their stuff posted on ff.net when people copy it.
Cory
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RuneEisahn
Registered:
Jul '08
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Date Posted:
10/5 6:34pm
Subject:
RE: Dawn of a New Age:An AU of ROTS-if Anakin allowed Mace to kill Sidious - updated 9/17
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I know I saw it too. Don't worry I saw that he took it down. I also e-mailed him to tell him he's wrong. He said he was really sorry. From what I can tell, he sounds really sorry.
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"So uncivilized."-Master Kenobi
Check out my story, Vector Prime:An Unfortunate Beginning
Also check out my new story, Chronicles of the Fellowship
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Milteck
Registered:
Jul '06
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Date Posted:
10/5 10:33pm
Subject:
in regards to the copycat
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I did see that. It was not me who posted that and was very upset to see it copied.
I saw they took it down and will continue updating this story this week
Thanks for your guys concern
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Avooc
Registered:
Jul '08
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Date Posted:
10/11 7:45am
Subject:
RE: Dawn of a New Age:An AU of ROTS-if Anakin allowed Mace to kill Sidious - updated 9/17
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As always another great update.
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