Atmosphere: A gentle wind rustling through the leaves of the kukra tree.
Dooku, now a Jedi Master—and nearer than ever to the Dooku we know—is putting a group of Initiates through their paces, each facing a holographic opponent.
(FIFTY-SOMETHING)
That’s it. Very good. Now…Let’s cycle through the marks of contact. Sai cha.
Ten lightsabers sweep and stop.
Excellent. Cho sun.
Again, there are ten swipes.
Cho mai.
And again.
Hmm. A little more precision if you please, Ovana. (BEAT) Sun djem.
And again.
Mou kei.
And again, one lightsaber slightly out of step.
I said mou kei, Pars, not cho mok. If these were your trials, you would have failed.
Rael walks into the garden.
Don’t let him give you a hard time, kid. You’re doing just fine.
Rael. Now is not the time for coddling, my former Padawan. If the Initiates are to be ready…
They will be. Won’t you, younglings?
With Master Dooku’s guidance, Jedi Averross.
Ha-ha! See. You have them well trained already, Master. Total obedience.
If only the same could have been said of you. Look at the state of those robes. And that sash…
(SHAKES HEAD) Same old Dooku.
I beg your pardon.
Tell me, kids, would ya rather play with training holograms all afternoon or witness a practical demonstration?
Rael activates his lightsaber.
You’re challenging me to a duel?
For old times’ sake.
Dooku ignites his lightsaber.
Holograms off.
The training holos shimmer off.
That’s better. What style shall we use?
Whichever you like. It’ll make little difference.
You’ve always been too confident. It will be your undoing. Sun djem!
He sweeps his lightsaber as he announces the cuts, Dooku easily blocking every move.
Whereas you talk too much. Shiim!
Another block. And then Rael performs three swift moves, each blocked by Dooku.
That’s true, I guess. While no one could accuse you of being chatty. Cho sun! Mou kei! Sai tok!
Their lightsabers sizzle as they lock.
Really? The Bisecting Blow? I taught you better than that, Rael.
Eh. Sometimes I like to play dirty. As do you!
They go into a full lightsaber battle, forgetting about the marks now, just reveling in the duel, ribbing each other as they fight.
You should be careful, my former pupil. You don’t want to tire yourself out. You have a long journey ahead of you.
Don’t worry on my account, Master. I could do this all day.
That won’t be necessary.
Dooku performs a skilled maneuver, getting the upper hand.
Ha-ha! Okay, okay. I yield. Solah! Solah!
They extinguish their lightsabers.
You need to work on your lateral extension. You leave yourself open to attack.
And there you have it, Initiates. Always the teacher. Always knows best. And don’t any of ya forget it.
(TO THE YOUNGLINGS) That will be all for today, younglings, but before you go, remember, while we may practice the marks of contact, a Jedi preserves life above all else. In combat we seek only to disarm, never to destroy. Do you understand?
(TOGETHER)
Yes, Master Dooku.
Very good. Now off with you. Master Braylon is waiting in the Hall of Discovery.
The Initiates file out, talking among themselves.
You’re hard on ’em, you know that?
Too hard?
They still have plenty of time. Besides, as you always told me, lightsaber conflict is purely ceremonial.
More’s the pity.
You don’t mean that.
And you know as well as anyone that the galaxy is a dangerous place.
Is that your way of tellin’ me to be careful?
You will be. I trained you. Just remember, diplomacy can quickly fail.
When neither party hungers for peace. I know. But I’m sure Yanis will be different.
I hope so. For everyone’s sake. I’ll walk with you to the hangar.
(MOCK SURPRISE) You’re comin’ to see me off? I didn’t know you cared, Master.
Just don’t tell anyone. I have a reputation to protect.
Atmosphere: A busy shuttle bay, ships being prepared for departure, droids bleeping and rolling about.
Doors swish open, and Rael and Dooku enter.
Ah, now I see why ya wanted to be here. I’ll try not to be too disappointed.
Dooku.
Master Kostana. I’m glad I caught you.
And I you. (CALLING OVER) Sifo. Dooku’s come to wave us off.
(OFF-MIC)
Oh. I’m…er…a bit busy. I’ll…um…I’ll be over in a minute.
Well, that’s not awkward at all.
(WARNING) Rael.
I know when I’m not wanted. If you need me, I’ll be on my interceptor.
Rael walks off, calling to an astromech.
(CALLING) Aitch-Sixteen! You fitted those laser capacitors yet?
An astromech burbles back.
Don’t give me that. You’ve had plenty of time.
He hasn’t changed.
And I hope he never does.
Dooku, listen. About Sifo. It’s not you…
I know. It’s just been so long.
It’s one of the reasons we stayed away.
You still travel together.
He needs me.
You’re not responsible for him anymore.
We both know he’s vulnerable. And we work well together. We always have.
And his visions?
She doesn’t reply.
Lene.
They’re getting worse.
You should talk to the Council.
What good would that do? They’d lock him away.
He’s not a criminal.
No. But in their eyes, he’s dangerous. I’ve heard…
What?
(LEANING IN CONSPIRATORIALLY) They’ve opened a new correctional unit on Lola Sayu. For those with foresight.
Within the Citadel? I find that hard to believe.
You haven’t been there. The thought of Sifo-Dyas ending up in a place like that. No, he’s better with me. And it’s not that unusual. The Jedi of old traveled together, sometimes in pairs. Sometimes more.
(HESITANT) The last thing I’d want is to cause him distress.
Thank you. But there is something you can do.
Name it.
(LOOKING AROUND) Where is she? Ah, there we are. (WHISTLES)
A convor flies down to land on Lene’s arm.
(LAUGHING) You’ve trained a new convor.
She’ll never replace poor Ferana, but she’s beautiful, aren’t you, girl?
She ruffles the convor’s feathers, the bird chirping happily.
She’s certainly very striking.
And that, Calleen, is as near a compliment as you’re ever going to get from Master Dooku.
Calleen. The Altiri goddess of wisdom.
I’m impressed.
Even a teacher must study.
Will you look after her for me? She gets skittish around Sifo.
It will be my pleasure. I shall construct a roost in my chambers.
There’s no need to go to any trouble.
There’s every need. It is good to meet you, Calleen.
The convor chirps and jumps to Dooku’s arm.
(LAUGHS)
(LAUGHING, TOO) Will you look at that? The beginning of a beautiful friendship. You look after him as well, eh, Calleen?
The convor chirps.
Good. I’ll see you soon, Dooku.
I hope so.
Lene returns to her ship as Rael walks back up to his old Master.
If I hadn’t taken a vow of celibacy…
It’s never stopped you before…
She’s a fine woman.
I think you mean, a great Jedi.
’Course I do. (BEAT) You all right?
Why wouldn’t I be? Meet Calleen.
The convor squawks.
Don’t think she likes me.
Then it appears she has excellent taste.
But seriously, your friend…I know what Sifo-Dyas means to you.
We’ve known each other for a long time, but the Force has led us down different paths. Sifo-Dyas is an explorer, while I am doomed to endure ridicule from my former students.
Quite right, too. Just promise me one thing. Don’t wait too long.
For what?
To take another Padawan.
As if you could be so easily replaced.
You know what I mean.
Worry about Yanis, Jedi Averross. Your old Master will take care of himself.
Dooku walks away.
(CALLING AFTER HIM) I thought we weren’t saying old?
According to this, he would take another Padawan, sooner than anyone expected.
(GHOST)
Himself included?
She swipes through to another entry.
I thought you would remember. Looks like you were there…
A lightsaber duel is in process, a group of Initiates watching from the side of the gallery.
Gretz? Is he here? Can you see him?
Stop panicking, Ky. He’s there. Behind Master Aerith.
I thought he wasn’t coming.
Dooku never misses the tournaments.
Yeah, but he never picks a Padawan, either. Not since Rael.
Maybe this year will change all that.
And I suppose you think he’ll pick you.
Can you think of any reason why he won’t?
Yeah. You’re looking at him.
You?
Why not?
Ky, you yield in every duel.
I do not!
What do you think, Qui-Gon?
I think you should be quiet. I’m trying to watch Ima-Gun and Yeeda.
Gretz says I always yield.
And? Sometimes to win you must lose.
Exactly. (BEAT) I think.
Please don’t pretend you know what that means.
The lightsaber duel ends in one of the sabers going off.
(OFF-MIC)
Solah!
(OFF-MIC)
Well done, Initiates.
(OFF-MIC)
The next combatants will be chosen.
We hear the stones whirl as before until one is chosen.
(OFF-MIC)
Initiate Narec.
Time to prove yourself.
(OFF-MIC)
And his opponent will be…
The stones whirl until…
(OFF-MIC)
Initiate Droom.
(GROANING) Oh, great.
What’s the matter, Ky? Nervous?
There is no need to be. The Force will be with you.
(TEASING) Yeah. It’ll need to be.
Another duel is under way.
Impressive. Most impressive. Trained them well you have, Master Dooku.
Master Sinube deserves the credit. He has spent more time with Heliost Clan. My time has been taken up with Thranta, as usual.
And yet one youngling interests you, I think.
He has great potential.
An inquiring mind. That is what he has.
More like a total disregard for authority, if you ask me.
That is unfair, Master Braylon.
You haven’t taught him.
Yet.
I am not ready to take another Padawan.
I don’t see why not. Unless you’re thinking of sitting on the Council?
Welcome, my former Padawan would be. That he knows. But other plans I sense he has. Chosen for him, the Force already has.
The tournament is over, the Initiates milling around.
I don’t believe it.
Maybe he couldn’t choose between us?
So he chose him?
Gretz spots Dooku approaching.
Shhh.
Padawan Droom. I trust you are pleased with your mentor.
Yes, Master Dooku.
Jor Aerith is a fine Jedi, Gretz. You will learn much from her. As will you from Master Mana, Padawan Narec.
Thank you, sir.
Qui-Gon approaches.
And here is my Padawan. I hope you are ready for a challenge, Qui-Gon?
Always, Master Dooku.
Then we shall begin immediately.
Master?
Meet me in the training ground, in ten minutes.
Dooku strides off.
(GOING OFF-MIC)
A Jedi is always punctual. Remember that, Padawan.
I will.
You better run along, Qui-Gon. You’ve got yourself a real taskmaster there.
(APPROACHING)
Is that so, Padawan Droom?
(JUMPS) Master Aerith. I didn’t see you there.
Obviously. Let’s take a leaf out of Master Dooku’s book, shall we? The Hall of Endurance, in five minutes.
Five? I mean, yes, Master. I’m looking forward it.
Shouldn’t you have already left?
Very funny.
Gretz rushes off.
You don’t remember it at all?
She swipes another page beneath his dialogue.
(GHOST)
Sometimes it is difficult…my memories are clouded…
Then maybe this will clear things up for you…“I must admit at first I was concerned. Had I misread the Force? Qui-Gon and I struggled in the early days of our partnership. Everything about us seemed at odds, more so than it had ever been with Rael. Perhaps we were too alike. I needn’t have worried. Trust in the Force, Master Yoda used to tell me, and as in most things he was correct. Now it feels as though we were born to serve together, Qui-Gon the student and I, the teacher…”
As before, fade into:
(NARRATION)
…and I, the teacher. Aerith says we have become inseparable, and I for one welcome it…
I am ready, Master.
Are you sure?
Yes.
Very well. This technique is not one I learned from Master Yoda. And yet I will share it with you, as I shared it with Rael. Who knows. Perhaps you will share it with your Padawan one day.
But if you didn’t learn it from Master Yoda…Ah. You learned it from Lene Kostana.
You’ve heard of her.
And how close you were.
We still are. Now place the band around my chest. Yes, like that.
Qui-Gon pulls a metal band around Dooku’s chest, clicking the ends of the ring together.
It needs to be tight.
It couldn’t get much tighter. What is it?
A medical implement, at least originally, although I believe the Heltraxi use it as a torture device. When pressed, the button on this remote will send an electronic pulse through my chest, not enough to kill me, but uncomfortable nonetheless.
I do not wish to hurt you, Master.
And you won’t. Through the Force, a Jedi can endure even the most debilitating pain. Remember the Battle of Nar Shaddaa. Master Crucitorn fought on even after being immolated by the Flame-Wielders.
Injuries that would have crippled any warrior. But we live in an age of peace.
And long may it continue. However, his technique can ease discomfort on any level. The principles I teach you today can be used to soothe any pain, be it physical or mental. Now activate the band.
Qui-Gon clicks the button. There is a slight hum.
(A LITTLE UNCOMFORTABLE) Good. Turn the dial.
Are you sure?
I wouldn’t have asked you if I were not.
Qui-Gon turns a dial.
(GRUNTING SLIGHTLY) Good. Now…Reach out with the Force. What do you feel?
Your discomfort.
Hardly surprising. But if I…focus my thoughts…and calm my emotions.
Master, we should stop.
No. Pain is only an illusion. It can be controlled.
He steadies his breathing despite the pain.
I am Jedi. (NOW CALMER) I am Jedi. (CALMER AGAIN) I am Jedi.
Your pain. I cannot sense it anymore.
Nor can I. The pain is still there. I merely deny its power over me.
I would like to try.
You are eager. I like that.
I want to learn.
And learn you shall, my Padawan.
(NARRATION)
I shift, not wanting my legs to cramp in the cold. The sky is darkening. Between Ky and the journal, I’ve lost track of time. I glance down on the street, but it is still deserted. The Crolute hasn’t shown. If he doesn’t come back soon, I’m going to have to rethink the entire operation. I don’t want to think what Dooku will say if I return without his sister. That’s if she’s even still on Serenno.
Trust in the Force. The words Dooku wrote so long ago bolster my resolve. My first instinct was that Glute would return here. I must stand by my convictions just a little bit longer.
(GHOST)
Is that the only reason?
What?
(GHOST)
Why you are waiting?
You need to stay out of my thoughts.
(GHOST)
How can I? What did you say I was? A figment of your imagination? No. You thought that, didn’t you? How annoying it must be.
She swipes through the datapad, frustrated.
(GHOST)
But the point stands. You want to know how Dooku was with his Padawan. What kind of teacher he was back then.
I know what kind of teacher he is. I bear the scars.
(GHOST)
But he wasn’t always that way. It’s there, on the page in front of you. Their travels through the galaxy. Soul’s Lament. The waterfalls of Dalna. Station Zeta. Qui-Gon would have become used to waystations like Zeta, and the clientele they attracted. I should have taken you offplanet. There’s a freedom about being out in the stars. People take risks that they never would at home, perhaps showing their true nature because they think no one’s looking…
Fade to:
Atmosphere: A busy space station, lots of bustle and noise.
Footsteps running through a crowd.
(COMM)
Arath? Where are you?
I’m on my way, Averross. I had to see someone.
(COMM)
And you chose now? The Plinovian ambassador is…
I said, I’ll be there—
He barges into someone, knocking them down.
Stang. I’m sorry.
No harm is done.
You’re a Padawan.
And you’re a Jedi.
For my sins. The name’s Arath.
Qui-Gon.
You’re here for the peace talks?
No. We’re passing through.
You and your Master?
Yes. Here he comes now.
(GROANS) Today just gets better.
Dooku approaches.
Well, there’s a face I haven’t seen in a long time.
Dooku. What a wonderful surprise.
Careful. You almost sound like you mean it. What brings you out here?
Station Zeta is hosting a summit.
Oh?
Between the Plinovians and the Solodoe. I’ve taken a diplomatic post with—
There’s an explosion nearby. People scream.
That doesn’t sound good.
Quickly. (RUNS OFF) We may be able to help.
Ever the hero. (CALLING) Wait up!
Atmosphere: The aftermath of the explosion. People are sobbing. Fires are being extinguished. Rael Averross is attempting crowd control.
Please. Everyone needs to keep back. Yeah. That includes you, lady.
Dooku and Qui-Gon run up.
Rael?
(SMILING) Master Dooku. I thought I felt your presence.
You remember my Padawan?
’Course I do. Good to see ya again, Qui-Gon.
What happened here?
The peace talks have hit a road bump. The Plinovian ambassador has exploded.
He was blown up?
No. He did it himself.
I’m sorry?
Plinovians are a gaseous life-form, similar to Master Oorallon.
The difference being that Oorallon doesn’t self-combust when riled. Just look at this mess.
Arath runs up.
I’m sorry. I came as quickly as I could.
I thought you were just behind us.
I got waylaid. What happened?
What happened is that damn Plinovian tried to kill me!
Please, Ambassador Ketas. I must tend to your injuries.
Get your damn pincers away from me.
Let’s just calm down, shall we?
Indeed. Taking out your frustration on a med droid will hardly help the situation, Ambassador.
Then maybe I should take it out on whoever you are!
Ambassador Ketas, may I introduce Master Dooku. He has been sent to help with the negotiations.
I have?
Yes.
The Jedi finally realized you weren’t up to the job, did they? Not that it will make any difference. The talks have been a shambles from beginning to end. I knew it was a mistake holding them here. There are too many distractions. We should’ve held them on Plin, as I originally suggested.
We require neutral ground, Ambassador. If an agreement is to be found…
There will be no agreement. I have been insulted and attacked. Terraforming will continue, and that is final.
Ketas, please.
Ketas opens a comm channel, storming off as he speaks.
Tanu? This is Ketas. (BEAT) I don’t care where you are. We’re leaving. Ready the ship.
(SIGHS) I should’ve become a librarian. You know where you are with books.
I never knew you were much of a reader. What can we do to help?
I’d better bring you up to speed. Arath, I need you to coordinate the cleanup. Can you do that?
(ICILY) Of course.
We’ll head back to the conference rooms.
Lead the way.
They leave.
No, that’s fine. I’ll carry on. No need to say thank you.
So both the Plinovian and the Solodoe have a claim on Plin Minor.
That’s right. But the Solodoe are determined to terraform the planet…
Which would destroy much of the Plinovians’ natural habitat.
Everything was going great until Ketas accused the Plinovian ambassador of stealin’ his seal of office, which just so happens to be made of solid mythra…
And therefore worth a small fortune. Where was it kept?
On his cruiser, the Luster. A real beauty. Top-of-the-line security systems. Cams. Pressure pads in the floor. The works. No one could get in or out.
But someone did.
The Plinovian ambassador.
According to Ketas.
Able to slip through doors…
And float over pressure pads.
But if there is security footage…
A door chime bings.
Hold that thought. Enter.
The door slides open.
You called for me, Jedi Averross?
Chief Tanu. Thank you for joining us.
Ambassador Ketas is keen to depart.
I’m sure he’ll stick around if it means we can find his seal.
I’m not sure how I can help.
You can give us access to the Luster’s security footage.
I’m not sure that’s possible.
You have reviewed it?
(UNSURE) I…Yes. Yes, I have.
Then ya won’t mind if we take a peek. You can use this terminal.
Very well.
He starts pressing buttons.
But I don’t see what good it will…(TRAILS OFF)
Chief Tanu?
This isn’t right. The footage. It’s…It’s been deleted.
By whom?
More beeps.
It’s not possible.
Chief?
It was deleted…using my clearance codes. But I would never…I’d have no reason to…
Steal the seal yourself?
Why would I? Ketas is already gunning for me. He told me if I bomb out again…
An interesting turn of phrase. What do you remember about the robbery, Tanu?
Nothing. Ketas discovered the seal was gone. He was furious. He…blamed the Plinovians. Said he was going to have it out with them and…
And you checked the security footage…
I…I must have. I told the ambassador I had…but…
But now you’re not so sure.
I would’ve checked. I…I’m sure I would.
His mind is clouded.
But I sense no deceit.
Not about the seal, anyway.
I’m not sure I like your tone.
I mean no disrespect, but tell me—what did you mean by “bombed out.”
He’s not the easiest man to get on with.
That much is obvious. But bombed out is a phrase from sabacc, is it not? I assume you play.
Yes. Yes, I do. There’s nothing wrong with that.
It depends how much ya lose.
I can’t see how any of this is your business.
Have you played since arriving on Station Zeta?
Yes. There’s a casino on level twenty. Chance Encounters.
With anyone we know?
I…(STRUGGLING) I’m not sure.
I think we should take that as a yes. Padawan, I think you should pay a visit to the lower levels.
A metal fist buries itself in a stomach.
Where’s the money, Arath?
(WHEEZING) I told you. Your boss will get it. But he has to be patient.
No, he doesn’t.
The droid kicks Arath on “doesn’t.”
(CRIES OUT) You don’t understand. I just need for things to die down…
Should have thought of that before you cheated!
I didn’t.
The droid hits him again.
Liar!
(GRUNTS) Oh, what’s the point.
The enforcer droid smashes into the wall.
I could get into real trouble for doing this.
There’s a crackle of electricity, the enforcer giving out an electronic moan.
But no one cares about droids, do they?
(WITH EFFORT) You’re…dead…
Not if your boss wants me to pay up. So why don’t you scuttle off and tell him it’s on its way.
(OFF-MIC)
Arath?
(UNDER BREATH) Stang!
Qui-Gon runs up.
What are you doing?
This droid tried to rob me. I was teaching it a lesson.
Li—
His vocabulator sparks and gives out.
Sounds like there’s something wrong with his vocabulator.
There is now.
Let him go. I think you’ve made your point.
Have I, droid? Have I made my point?
The droid burbles electronically.
Good.
He drops the droid.
And don’t try anything like that again. Go on. Get out of here.
The droid limps away, joints clattering.
You showed him.
Yes. Yes, I did. But…we don’t need to mention this to your Master, do we? Or Rael for that matter.
I’m not sure…
You know what a stickler Dooku is for rules and regulation. Although he wasn’t always. The stories I could tell you.
Perhaps we could discuss them over a drink? Or maybe a game?
Aren’t you full of surprises? Did you have anything specific in mind?
I was thinking…sabacc?
You play?
Not exactly. I’ve never had the chance. Not on Coruscant. But I’ve watched all the holos and studied the rules…
And now you want to break some.
Can you get me into a casino?
Not in those robes, but what if we set up a little game of our own?
That would be great.
Meet me in my quarters in one hour. Don’t be late.
Qui-Gon hurries off.
(CALLING BACK)
I won’t be. Thank you. This is going to be so great.
“I’ve watched all the holos.” (SNORTS) Like stealing slime from a brain-slug.
The door chime trills.
Come in.
The door swishes open. Qui-Gon enters.
Where are the others?
They will be here, don’t worry. Although I’ve had to ask Tanu.
The security chief?
Security risk, more like. But don’t worry. He’s harmless enough.
The door chime trills again.
That’ll be them now. You ready for this, kid?
I was born ready.
Heh. Glad to hear it.
The door slides open.
I hope you didn’t start without us.
Dooku?
I heard there was a game.
What? Here? No.
Drop the act, Arath. Where is it?
Where’s what?
The Solodoe seal.
I don’t know what you’re talking about.
Then you won’t mind if we search your room.
You can’t.
And why’s that?
I’ve done nothing wrong.
Then why is your heart racing? Qui-Gon. Are you ready to have a look around?
He was born ready.
Qui-Gon starts walking around.
You heard that then?
And you’re never gonna live it down, kiddo.
You can’t do this.
Stop there.
By the bed?
That’s where it is, isn’t it?
No. Why won’t you believe me? There’s nothing here.
Then what are we sensing?
A guilty conscience.
Dooku turns the bed over.
No. Stop.
Will you look at that?
Dooku picks up a box and opens it.
The seal.
Aren’t you full of surprises?
Rael opens a hololink.
We have our culprit, Master Braylon.
(OVER COMM)
(SIGHS) Arath. Why am I not surprised? What is it? More gambling debts?
He’s done this before?
(OVER COMM)
Master Dooku, will you bring Diplomat Arath back to Coruscant?
Happily.
The Solodoe will demand justice.
(OVER COMM)
Return the seal and see what you can salvage from the situation. We may have to hand this over to the Republic. I doubt either the Solodoe or the Plinovians will trust us now. Braylon out.
The hologram cuts off.
Well, that’s just great. Six months of negotiations down the refuse chute.
How did you know?
The mess you made of Tanu’s memory.
I assume you had him delete the records so no one could see you using the Force to circumvent the pressure pads. You’re a disgrace.
Here we go. Yoda’s little favorite…
I’d quit while I was ahead if I were you.
Why? It’s not like you’re going to do anything. Not really.
Not unless I hand you over to the casino? How much do you owe, exactly?
You wouldn’t. Would you?
He’s joking.
Probably.
Don’t worry, Arath, I’ll make sure you get what’s comin’ to ya.
(GHOST)
And did he?
Another gap in your memories?
(GHOST)
I wasn’t exactly around at the time.
She swipes back and forth.
According to this, Arath was assigned to the Archives. Hardly what I’d call a punishment.
(GHOST)
You’ve never been there. Besides, you know the Jedi. Always ready with a second chance.
More fool them.
She finds something in the datapad case.
(GHOST)
What’s that?
Another data disk.
(GHOST)
In the pad’s case? That doesn’t make any sense.
Perhaps Dooku found it, when he returned to Serenno. Where’s that reader?
She slides the disk into a reader. A hologram appears.
(GHOST)
That’s definitely Dooku.
Nearer the age he is now.
(GHOST)
Go on then.
She presses play.
(HOLO-NARRATION)
Jenza. I realize it’s been a while since we communicated, but you have a right to know what really happened over the last few days, and my part in it.
Sounds promising.
(HOLO-NARRATION)
If I could change what happened I would, but events were in motion long before I discovered Ramil was on Coruscant…
Dooku is binding his arm, as Lene once showed him.
For the Force is strong.
For the Force is strong.
There’s a knock on the door.
Come.
The door slides open and Qui-Gon enters. He, too, is older, almost a Jedi Knight in his own right.
Master Dooku. I…Oh, I’m sorry.
Don’t be. I was just meditating.
Are you injured?
Hmm?
Your arm. The bandages.
(A SHARP LAUGH) Ah, no. It’s an old habit. Nothing more.
Calleen trills nearby as Dooku pulls on his tunic.
Would you mind feeding Calleen?
Of course. How long has it been since Master Kostana last saw her?
I dread to think.
He ties his belt.
(CONT.)
Forgive me, Qui-Gon, but I thought you were assisting Master Oorallon with the Katarr adumbrature this morning.
I thought you would be happy that I’m not.
You know my feelings on seers.
And yet you allow me to continue to work with Oorallon, for which I am grateful.
As with the holocron of prophecy, I would rather you studied such texts with my blessing than behind my back. Is Oorallon sick?
No. We’ve been summoned by the Council. Master Oorallon said he would manage alone.
From within his tank? Now, that’s something I’d like to see.
Another time maybe. The Council was quite insistent.
Do you know why?
No. I’m afraid not.
Then we shouldn’t keep them waiting.
Dooku and Qui-Gon enter the chamber.
Ah, Dooku, there you are.
Master Braylon. Master Aerith. And Jedi Droom, too.
Congratulations on your elevation, Gretz.
Thank you, Qui-Gon.
You must be very proud, Jor.
I don’t think so. Pride is a dangerous emotion. We would do well to remember that.
She goes to take her seat.
Aerith never changes, does she?
I honestly thought I’d be able to stop apologizing for her once I was Knighted.
There is no need. Jor speaks her mind. I, for one, find that refreshing in a Council member.
Nearby, Yoda raps his stick on the floor.
(OFF-MIC)
Come. Come.
Shall we?
The Council members take their seats, Dooku, Droom, and Qui-Gon standing before them.
Thank you for joining us, Master Dooku. You must be wondering why we called you here.
I am naturally curious.
Well, I’ll get to the point. You are to join me in representing the Jedi at the Coruscant air rally, Dooku.
I am?
Unless you have someplace better to be. Gretz and Qui-Gon will accompany us.
We would be honored, but can I ask—
Why?
You know how popular these races are. The eyes of the galaxy will be on Coruscant. It will not hurt the Jedi to be seen at such an event.
Invited by the Candovant ambassador, Jor was.
Then why am I required?
It’s quite simple. The place will be teeming with politicians and celebrities. You have a natural affinity for such…people.
I do?
You know you do. You’re charming, Dooku. Charismatic.
Everything Jor is not.
I hardly think that’s fair, Master Braylon.
Please. I am quite aware of my shortcomings. As, it appears, is my former Padawan.
(SOTTO) Shortcomings that don’t include her hearing, it seems.
(SOTTO) You have no idea.
There is another option. We could choose not to go.
Master Braylon?
Why should the Jedi flaunt themselves in front of the glittering masses? It debases the Order, making us no better than…politicians and holostars.
I have already accepted the invitation.
With due respect, Master Braylon, the Candovants are a powerful force in galactic politics.
Politics. It’s all about politics these days. Your minds are obviously made up. Very well. I’m sure you’ll enjoy your day at the races. Just remember that you are Jedi.
Trust Master Dooku to remember his place, I think we can.
Naturally. We will be the souls of discretion.
A speeder soars through Coruscant’s air traffic.
(HOLO-NARRATION)
As always, I played the dutiful Jedi, but the altercation with Braylon had affected me deeper than I realized. I brooded all the way to the air track, forcing a smile as we arrived at our destination.
The soundscape changes to a large hover platform at the starting point of the race. There is the buzz of a party, loud music playing, the clinks of glasses. The partygoers have to shout slightly to be heard.
(HOLO-NARRATION)
I have lost count of the diplomatic functions I have attended since we last saw each other, but for all its glitz and glamour, the hospitality platform was no different from the rest. The Coruscanti jazz band, the obligatory small talk with visiting dignitaries, not to mention the unenviable task of deflecting those who had made good use of the complimentary bar…
(DRUNK) Hey. Divad Masspur, Coco-Town Sports. You’re a Jedi, right? Can I see your sword?
(SMILING THROUGH GRITTED TEETH) I’m afraid not.
Always wanted to have a go with one of those things. In fact, I’ve an amazing idea for a show. Wanna hear it?
Not really.
“Celebrity LaserSabers”!
Lightsabers.
Whatever. You could be one of the judges. We’ll drop contestants into a tank of live animals, I don’t know, a pack of valkoths or something, and see who makes it out alive—
It sounds fascinating, but tell me, isn’t that Lekar Hablis over there?
Lekar? You’re right! (RUSHING OFF) I’ve got to speak to him. But we’ll discuss this later, yes? Yes?
I look forward to it.
(OFF-MIC)
Lekar! Divad Masspur. It’s an honor to meet you, buddy. Hey, did you bring your swoop bike?
And who is Lekar Hablis?
The nine-time Devaronian swoopdueling champion.
I never knew you were a fan.
I’m not. I overheard an overexcited Ugnaught working up the courage to ask for an autograph. But what about you? Are you enjoying yourself, Qui-Gon?
I’m not sure enjoying is the right word. It’s very loud.
A condition that will only worsen once the race is under way. From what Gretz told me, the course is marked out by those large repulsor rings. The airspeeders must pass through them all to avoid being disqualified. Some of the turns will be quite taxing.
Master, please. I know you’re not happy.
Not happy? About what?
About being here. In this place, with these people.
Nonsense. It will be an…interesting diversion.
You can fool the others, but you can’t fool me.
There’s a part of me that agrees with Master Braylon. Why are we here?
It’s good…what’s the term? Public relations.
And why should we care what the public thinks of us? We have a job to do, and we should do it. Not be wheeled out like exhibits in a freak show.
That’s a little harsh.
But it’s true. And what good are we doing here, sipping avedamé and making chitchat? Our predecessors pushed boundaries, explored the galaxy. They made a difference, Qui-Gon. Today…today we’re anachronisms who only act when politicians give their assent. Half the people here think we’re nothing more than a glorified police force, enforcers for the Senate.
And the other half?
They don’t think of us at all. We’re an irrelevance.
Master, you cannot mean this. In a few short months, I will face my trials.
Which you will pass with flying colors.
And what then?
(AS IF THE ANSWER IS OBVIOUS) You’ll become a Jedi Knight.
To what end? If what you say is true, I might as well give up now. I want to make a difference. I want to serve the galaxy.
And you will. (SIGHS) Pay no heed to me, Qui-Gon, or to Master Braylon. We are old. Past our prime.
I hardly think that’s true.
Well, you should. You’re the future, Qui-Gon. You and Gretz and, yes, even Ky. Master Aerith is wrong. There’s no harm in feeling pride. I’m proud of you, after all. If I never do anything of note ever again, I will watch you rise through the Order, changing it forever.
For the better?
(LAUGHS)
What?
I asked the very same question once. A long time ago. You are wise beyond your years, Qui-Gon Jinn, with a connection to the living Force that may even one day rival Yoda’s.
I doubt that.
I have faith in you. And faith in the Force. As for now, maybe we should enjoy the party. I saw a droid serving opala fruit. Have you ever sampled one?
I have not.
Then now is your…(TRAILS OFF)
Master. You look as if you’ve seen a ghost.
Maybe I have…
(HOLO-NARRATION)
An air racer was approaching, his drive suit plastered with holographic sponsors and a wine flute in his hand. The hospitality platform was full of pilots, surrounded by equally sycophantic entourages, but this one bore a face I’d thought I would never see again…
Well, well, well. Look who it is.
Ramil.
My friends, may I introduce Jedi Knight Dooku.
Jedi Master.
Master! Going up in the world, eh, Dooku? You and me both.
Qui-Gon, this is Ramil of Serenno.
His brother.
Brother?
I know. It’s shocking isn’t it? I got the looks, he got the…well, I would say dress sense, but…those robes.
It was good to see you again, Ramil.
Don’t be like that. Just a bit of fun. Can’t we let bygones be bygones, and all that? Unless you’re here to fix the race with your magic?
His entourage laugh vacuously.
Perish the thought. And what of you, Ramil? Are you here representing our father?
That old gill-goat? Not likely. Why do you think I’m wearing all this?
You’re racing?
Indeed I am. (NOTICES ASTROMECH) Ah. You. Droid. My glass is empty.
The droid burbles and whirs over. Ramil takes a glass from the tray.
Help yourself, boys.
Do you think that’s wise?
What?
Drinking before a race.
Don’t you worry about me, baby brother. I have luck on my side.
And what of Serenno?
(DRINKING) What of it?
The trouble with the workers and the droids. Was Father able to reach a resolution?
(SNORTS) He can barely reach the bathroom, incontinent old grotnix.
He’s unwell? Shouldn’t you be by his side?
Dooku, excuse me for asking, but why do you even care?
You’re the heir of Serenno. Surely you have…responsibilities?
All racers to their speeders. Repeat. All racers to their speeders.
And that’s the end of the conversation. What a pity. Enjoy the show, Dooku.
May the Force be with you.
Ramil and his crew swagger off.
And to you, Qwee-Gin. And to you.
(WATCHING HIM GO) It’s Qui-Gon, actually.
Unbelievable.
Master?
It’s true what they say. Power is wasted on the powerful.
Gretz and Jor approach.
There you are, Dooku.
The Candovant ambassador requests our presence in his hoverpod. Apparently, it offers the best view of the race.
You sound as if you’re looking forward to it, Gretz.
You know…I am. Imagine what a Jedi could do at the controls of one of those things.
Are you coming, Dooku?
(DARKLY) Yes. After you.
(AMPLIFIED)
Welcome one and all to the forty-eighth annual Dragonfire Air Rally, sponsored by Daystar Entertainment. It’s a glorious day and our brave pilots are already at the starting line, waiting for the off.
Rika Carno Jedana? [Would you like a drink, Jedi?]
Ah. No, thank you.
What my apprentice meant to say was, yes, he’d be delighted.
Absolutely. Thank you.
He takes a glass.
Refusing a drink from a Candovant is a great insult. Wars have started for less.
Thanks for the tip.
I just wouldn’t actually drink any if I were you. Cando brandy tastes like bantha slurry.
Defending his title is nine-time champion Izal Pre of Cona, who is in pole position just ahead of archrival Thrar of Coachelle Prime.
Thrar, of course, made her name in the Coachelle Burrow Runs before swapping a ground-churner for her trademark M-29 airspeeder.
Next is Drusan of Rodia, flying a Recardian C-18, and Toong Lor Kelasakuroona, former champion and the oldest competitor in the race.
At the rear we find Tanan Vetall of Nithorni and a late entry, Ramil of Serenno, who has been making waves on the Celanon Circuit. Many are suggesting that it is Ramil and not Thrar who could be the real challenger to Pre’s crown.
(TALKING OVER THE END OF THE COMMENTATOR)
Serenno? Isn’t that where you come from, Dooku?
Hm-mm. Yes.
Kira caravel von manarecan, Jedana-Mastera…[Then we know who you will be rooting for, Master Jedi…]
Don’t worry. I will be rooting for all the pilots, Ambassador.
And the track coordinator has confirmed that the course is clear. Coruscant, are you ready to see the greatest rally in the Galactic Core?
A cheer goes up from the crowd.
I said: Coruscant, are you ready?
An even bigger cheer.
Then, pilots, start your engines…
Airspeeder engines whine, ready to race.
There are three beeps and then a longer, shriller tone as the airspeeders scream from the starting line.
And they’re off!
We stay with the airspeeders, engines shrieking as they zip around the course, passing through the rings.
And Pre holds the lead as they speed through the first ring, heading into the Razda straight.
Thrar is on Pre’s fin, already pushing to take the Arcona on the bend. And at the back we have Vetall positioning herself right in front of Ramil’s T-22. The Serennian can’t get past.
I’ve never seen speeders move so fast. The holocams can barely keep up.
Can you see, Master?
Yes. The view is…quite satisfactory, thank you.
Back to the speeders who roar on, banking in the air.
Would you look at that—Ramil of Serenno has passed Tanan Vetall. I thought he was going to plow straight into the marker, but he’s leveled up and is accelerating wildly. He passes Drusan above the Karflo Tower and takes the corner to bear down on Kelasakuroona.
This is thrilling flying from Ramil. Kelasakuroona is swerving in front of the T-22. Ramil can’t get past and…yes. Ramil of Serenno has thrown himself into a barrel roll, passing over the head of the former champion. Kelasakuroona can’t see Ramil and the Serennian’s away, rocketing along the Hesperidium straight to chase down Thrar and Pre.
As we near the end of the first lap, our sponsors would like me to remind you that bets can still be placed until the beginning of the final lap. I for one would recommend a flutter on Ramil. I haven’t seen flying like this since the days of Vearacki Dak.
Your brother is quite a pilot, Master.
He is. I hate to say it, but I’m actually impressed.
Careful now. You almost sound as though you’re enjoying yourself.
Perish the thought.
The airspeeders thunder past the hoverpod.
And Ramil hangs on Thrar’s tail, but the Lepi won’t let him pass. Halfway around the second lap and Kelasakuroona has dropped back into last place, Tanan Vetall picking up the pace. But neither of them stands a chance of catching up with the leaders.
Pre thunders through the Lefex turn, coming up on the Tyerell Ring. He’s pulling in hard and—
Pre’s airspeeder hits the ring, exploding on impact.
By the stars! Terrible scenes here on the Dragonfire Circuit as Izal Pre crashes out of the forty-eighth Coruscant rally. His speeder is in flames as it plummets into the Bindai district, fire-skimmers rushing to offer assistance.
There’s another explosion as it crashes far below.
Back on the track, the race continues. Thrar and Ramil are neck and neck, Ramil pulling ahead. What incredible flying. Thrar can’t stop him. Just a few more seconds to place your bets and…that’s it, we’re into the final lap and Ramil takes the lead. No. Wait. He’s losing ground. Thrar is coming up on his flank and…yes, incredible. Thrar has taken the lead.
What’s Ramil doing? He should’ve kept his throttle open on that last pass.
I had no idea you were such an expert.
I’ve flown enough interceptors.
It is curious, though. Ramil was looking so strong.
Perhaps he’s experiencing repulsor problems.
(HOLO-NARRATION)
I had no idea what was going through Ramil’s head on that final lap. Maybe it was the roar of the crowd, or the thought of the prize. Or maybe he caught sight of me as he rocketed past the ambassador’s hoverpod. I would have been a blur, there one second, gone the next, but perhaps it was just enough to spur him on…
This is phenomenal! Ramil is gaining once more. There’s nothing Thrar can do as they zoom down the straight. It’s into the Calocour bend and yes, Ramil takes the lead. There can be no doubt. Ramil of Serenno is minutes away from lifting the Dragonfire Trophy. It’s on to the Tyerell Ring, Ramil with a twenty-seven-second lead.
There’s an explosion on Ramil’s speeder.
And disaster strikes for the second time over Bindai. Smoke is billowing from Ramil’s T-22.
Ramil’s speeder drops from the sky.
The leader has gone into a dive and…
There is another explosion from the speeder.
Yes, he’s out of the race. Thrar has taken the lead, Drusan pushing for second place. The emergency team has activated a tractor web, but there is no guarantee that they can save Ramil.
On the hoverpod, Dooku races for a speeder.
Master Dooku. Where are you going?
Stay here, Qui-Gon.
That’s not going to happen. Ambassador, may we borrow a speeder?
Fara-caneeva mareen? [Where are you going?]
We’ll take that as a yes?
(HOLO-NARRATION)
We dropped away from the pod, the race thundering on above our heads.
(SHOUTING OVER THE DIN OF THE SWOOP BIKES) Do you think he survived, Master?
(SHOUTING) There is no way to tell.
(ABOVE)
And Thrar of Coachelle Prime has won the forty-eighth Dragonfire Rally. The crowd is going wild.
(SHOUTING) I see them. There. Looks like they brought him down safely.
Dooku and Qui-Gon zoom in, their speeder screeching to a halt.
There are sirens, and the sound of a burning speeder in the background.
Please stay back. There is nothing to see.
Not for you maybe.
(HOLO-NARRATION)
With a flick of my wrist, I sent the security droid flying into its patrol ship.
Hey!
Master!
The police droid gets up.
Assaulting a security droid is a serious offense.
He didn’t lay a finger on you.
So, what? I tripped?
(CALLING BACK AS HE RUNS PAST) Accidents will happen.
(HOLO-NARRATION)
I ran up to the medics, who had already transferred Ramil onto a med-splint.
Ramil.
Careful.
(WEAK) Dooku.
How bad is it?
Who wants to know?
I’m his brother.
An alarm goes off on the med-splint.
He’s going into cardiac arrest.
We need to get him into a shock-cot. Stand back please.
The med-splint whines as it trundles onto the ambulance.
Master. We should let them do their jobs.
Where are you taking him?
The ambulance’s ramp rises.
Which medcenter?
The ambulance takes off.
Why wouldn’t they answer?
We can find out.
Something isn’t right here. You sense it, don’t you?
I’m not sure.
We must examine his speeder.
The police droid hurries up, putting himself between the speeder and Dooku.
Oh no, no, no. That’s evidence, that is.
But you’re already moving it.
If you wish to speak to an investigator, I suggest you submit a request to Jaffkee House.
I’ll do more than that.
(HOLO-NARRATION)
I had never stepped foot in a Coruscant precinct house, and pray I never will again.
Doors slide open and Dooku and Qui-Gon enter.
Can I help you, sir?
A crashed airspeeder was brought in. A T-22.
From the Dragonfire, yeah.
Where is it, Sergeant?
In the evidence bay, but—
You will buzz us through.
I will buzz you through.
He presses a button, and a door slides open.
You will forget we were here.
They hurry through the door.
I will forget…Wait? Who the hell am I talking to?
The door shuts.
We hear them rushing through the corridors.
Are you sure this is a good idea, Master?
No.
Interfering with a CSF investigation…
We’re not interfering. Yet.
(HOLO-NARRATION)
The doors to the evidence bay slid open to reveal three Trandoshans manhandling Ramil’s speeder onto a junk-skiff.
That doesn’t look like a CSF transport.
And those don’t look like CSF agents. You, stand away from the speeder.
They ignite their lightsabers.
(HOLO-NARRATION)
The Trandoshans took one look at our lightsabers and fired their repulsors…
Lucumba! [Move out!]
The transporter takes off. Its repulsors are noisy, the chassis rattling.
They’re getting away.
Not if we “requisition” a security swoop.
Now you’re thinking like a Jedi. I’ll drive.
They jump on the back of the swoop bike and zoom out of the building.
(HOLO-NARRATION)
Within seconds, we were running the gauntlet of Coruscant’s rush hour.
Traffic sweeps the other way, horns blaring.
Watch out. You nearly clipped that one.
I’m finding it quite exhilarating.
Qui-Gon’s comm sounds. He answers it.
Qui-Gon here.
(OVER COMM)
Jinn. Where are you?
Chasing a gang of Trandoshans toward The Works.
(OVER COMM)
You’re what?
They’ve taken the crashed speeder.
One of the Trandoshans fires at them. Dooku avoids the blast.
(OVER COMM)
Was that blasterfire?
I don’t think they like being followed.
They’re dropping into the lower levels.
Then so shall we.
The swoop drops down after the criminals.
(OVER COMM)
The Council won’t be happy about this.
Sorry, Gretz. I can barely hear you. Must be interference from the foundries.
(OVER COMM)
You need to return to the Temp—
Qui-Gon kills the transmission.
Technical problems?
What are the chances?
More blaster bolts whistle by.
They really don’t want to be caught, do they?
We’ll lose them if they reach the pits.
Do you have a plan?
You take the controls.
That’s it?
Not quite.
(HOLO-NARRATION)
I threw myself from the swoop bike, using the Force to propel myself down toward the fleeing skiff.
The largest Trandoshan opened fire as I landed on the back of Ramil’s flier.
Dooku ignites his lightsaber.
(HOLO-NARRATION)
The blast ricocheted from my blade to strike the pilot between his scaled shoulder blades.
The skiff spun out of control, smashing into a factory ledge. I threw myself to safety as Ramil’s speeder tumbled into the bowels of the planet, taking the first Trandoshan with it. With his compatriots dead, the gang’s sole survivor ran into the derelict foundry.
Stop!
(HOLO-NARRATION)
I threw up a hand, knocking the Trandoshan from his feet. The brute scrabbled for his blast rifle as I pulled him toward me.
Jolumba! [No!]
Trandoshan claws screech on the concrete floor.
For your sake, I hope you speak Basic.
He lifts the Trandoshan from the floor.
(HOLO-NARRATION)
His eyes bulged as I lifted him in front of me.
How are you doing this?
Have you never heard of the Jedi? Do you not know what we can do?
Put me down.
Only when you tell me what you were doing with that speeder.
I can’t.
You don’t want me to force you to talk.
Force lightning crackles over his hands.
What is that!
Something I’ve been fighting for years. Something I can control. Most of the time.
Rek ka luradan. [The Storm of Nightfire.]
Tell me who sent you.
(OFF-MIC, SEARCHING)
Master?
Quickly!
The Force lightning crackles.
The race was fixed. The Serennian was supposed to lose.
Why?
Are you kidding? The bets were flooding in. The boss was going to make a killing.
So what happened?
The boss took out insurance, just in case the Serennian forgot his part of the deal. A detonator in the fuel tank.
Who is your master?
I can’t tell you. She’d kill me.
The crackling intensifies.
And you think I won’t?
(HOLO-NARRATION)
A siren echoed around the foundry, lights flashing through the broken glass.
Sirens blare across the factory. Police droids run in the distance and, with them, Qui-Gon.
(OFF-MIC, CALLING)
Master!
Qui-Gon! (SOTTO) For the Force is strong. For the Force is strong.
The crackling stops.
(AMPLIFIED)
Drop the Trandoshan. I repeat, drop the Trandoshan.
You can have him.
Dooku throws the Trandoshan to the ground.
(GRUNTS)
He has just confessed to race-rigging and sabotage.
Get me away from him. He’s fesssellis [crazy].
Qui-Gon runs up.
Master, the Council has been trying to contact us. They don’t sound happy.
Dooku’s comm chirps.
They never are.
He activates his comm.
Dooku here.
(OVER COMM)
This is Aerith. Where the hell are you, Dooku?
In the underground. We have apprehended the saboteurs and are about to investigate the syndicate behind the attack.
(OVER COMM)
No, Dooku. You are to return to the Temple.
Braylon?
This is a matter for the Coruscant Security Force, not the Jedi.
But—
(OVER COMM)
Dooku, why didn’t you tell me that the crashed pilot was your brother?
I didn’t think it was important.
(OVER COMM)
Important? You’re emotionally compromised, Dooku. Return to the Temple immediately.
The comm cuts out.
And it appears I am overruled.
Behind them the Trandoshan runs.
Master, the Trandoshan!
He’s getting away. Open fire.
No, wait.
A blast rings out.
(DIES)
His body slumps to the floor.
You could have stunned him!
I thought we were.
This cannot stand.
The Council said we weren’t to interfere.
Then the Council is wrong.
Inspector Sartori walks into the morgue, his boots clicking against the tiles. A mortuary droid—QC-ME—turns to him.
Inspector Sartori. We don’t see you in the morgue very often.
I wanted to examine the suspect, Q-See. What a mess.
Death would have been instantaneous. I assume there is going to be an inquest.
I’ve already filed the report. A malfunction in the police droids. I’ve had them sent for reprogramming.
The doors swish open behind them. Dooku and Qui-Gon enter.
Tell me, Inspector, is that normal procedure when a prisoner is killed?
What the— How did you get in here?
You have a very obliging desk sergeant.
You will surrender the Trandoshan’s body to the Jedi.
This is most irregular.
So is this.
Dooku activates his lightsaber and slices QC-ME in two, keeping the weapon activated.
That droid was Coruscant Security property.
Then why don’t you send it to reprogramming.
Sartori pulls a blaster.
I could arrest you, Master Dooku. You and your Padawan.
A blaster. Really? You think that will work against this?
He brings up his lightsaber.
Oh, and another thing.
He pushes out with the Force. Sartori is thrown across the morgue to crash into a wall.
How do you know my name?
You can’t do this to me. I’m an inspector.
Sartori starts to gag, caught in a Force choke.
I’ll tell you what you are. Nothing. I could snuff you out in an instant.
(WARNING) Master…
Tell me who was behind the sabotage. Who’s paying you?
(BARELY ABLE TO BREATHE) No one.
Master, this isn’t right.
You gave the Trandoshans access to my brother’s T-22. You covered up their crime, ordering your droids to shoot to kill. I want to know why. This is your last chance.
(CHOKING)
Master. Stop!
Dooku holds the gagging man for a moment longer and then…
Oh, very well.
He releases him. Sartori drops to the floor.
(HOARSE) You’re…insane.
I will get the truth, one way or another, Inspector.
Is that a promise or a threat?
It’s both.
Dooku sweeps from the morgue.
Master. Wait.
Qui-Gon runs after him.
Atmosphere: A busy street. Dooku sweeps out the doors, marching down the steps. Qui-Gon bursts out after him.
Dooku. Stop.
He grabs Dooku’s arm.
I said, stop!
(LAUGHS)
I can’t see anything to laugh about. You could have killed him.
Qui-Gon, Qui-Gon, Qui-Gon. I must congratulate you.
What?
You played your part beautifully. The loyal Padawan concerned that his grieving Master is going too far.
Because you were.
Was I?
A swoop bike zooms from a nearby alley up into the air.
Did you see who was on that bike?
Inspector Sartori.
Yes, I threatened the inspector. Yes, I may have even hurt him a little, and for that, I am sorry. But I was never out of control.
You were applying pressure—
So he would scurry off to whoever has him in their pocket.
Then we should follow him!
(SMILING) We already are.
Sartori’s swoop bike roars as he activates a comm bud in his ear.
(PITCHING UP OVER THE REPULSOR NOISE) Bagara! I need to see Cenevax now. (BEAT) I don’t care if she’s busy. The Jedi are on to me. I need protection.
A convor flaps in front of the bike, cawing loudly.
(CRIES OUT)
He slews the swoop bike across traffic. There’s the blare of a horn.
Stang!
He brings the bike under control.
What was that? No, I’m fine. It was just a stupid convor. Flew right in front of me. Just make sure Cenevax knows I’m coming. Sartori out.
The comm beeps.
Stupid bird.
He roars off, and for a moment we stay with the convor—Calleen—flying along.
(HOLO-NARRATION)
The inspector never questioned why an Altiri convor was flying along Coruscant’s busiest airlane, or why a nondescript flier was rising up to join the flow of traffic, a Jedi Master at the controls.
Dooku’s flier rises up, and we hear the bleep of a tracker.
(LAUGHING) A tracker in Calleen’s collar.
A Jedi is prepared for every eventuality, Qui-Gon.
And you’re okay flying while practicing beast control?
Animal kinship, my dear Padawan, and of course I am.
You never fail to amaze me.
I’m glad to hear it. Jedi are conspicuous, Qui-Gon, even in this much traffic—
But no one would suspect a lone owl.
(HOLO-NARRATION)
The bird led us to the Hythan Quarter, where towering chimneys belched smoke into the darkened sky. Calleen swept over production plants and factories, coming to rest on a window ledge high above Sartori’s cooling speeder. We were close behind, our skimmer slowing near a buzzing laser fence.
(WHISPER) It looks like it runs all the way around the building.
(WHISPER) We should be able to leap it easily enough.
(WHISPER) Without being spotted by the guards?
(WHISPER) They’ll never even know we’re here, thanks to that grog can.
What grog can?
A drink can clatters across the street.
What was that?
(SMILING) Litterbug.
(HOLO-NARRATION)
We vaulted the fence and within minutes were inside, the heavy doors offering little in the way of resistance to a burning lightsaber. We followed our senses, finally reaching a storeroom that had been converted to a vast treasure trove.
Inspector Sartori paced up and down as a Jenet scampered over a mountain of stolen treasure.
Hiding behind thick velvet drapes, we listened to Sartori’s panicked whining…
Atmosphere: There is the constant chinking of coins and golden treasures as Cenevax scrambles through her hoard, picking up trinkets and discarding them, her movements quick and scurrying, like the giant rodent she is.
Are you even listening to me?
Like Cenevax has a choice.
The Jedi came to the precinct. They threatened me.
Threatened you, did they? Poor little Inspector-man. Scared was you? Yer blood pumping, yer little boom-box racing? Boom-boom-boom-boom.
I thought they were going to kill me! You said the Jedi wouldn’t be a problem. You promised me.
Cenevax continues to rifle through her hoard.
Cenevax promised you, eh? Promises, promises. So easy to break. You promised her, Sartori. Cenevax pays you, you keep her enemies away. Remember that promise, do ya?
And I have. It isn’t easy, you know. Especially when you blow up a speeder with the entire planet watching.
He made promises, too, the Serennian, in his furs and his cape. What do you want from Cenevax, Inspector-man? What-what-what?
I want you to clean up your mess.
Clean up the mess. Yes, that would be nice.
She finds something in the hoard.
Come here, Inspector-man. Cenevax has found something. Something shiny.
I don’t care about your baubles. I care about my welfare.
Welfare, yes. Important it is. Vital. Come and see. Come and see what Cenevax has found. You’ll like it. It’ll help.
I don’t see how.
He reluctantly walks over, coins crunching like shingles beneath his feet.
Nice and shiny. Heavy, too. What do you think?
It’s just an old—
Cenevax whirls around, clubbing him with the lump of precious metal.
(BESTIAL ROAR AS SHE HITS HIM).
Sartori goes down, crashing into the treasure.
An old trinket box. Told you it was heavy.
(GROANS)
(HOLO-NARRATION)
Qui-Gon moved to intervene, but I placed a hand on his shoulder, holding him back.
Cenevax can’t remember where she got it. And now you’ve gotten blood all over it.
She hits him again with the box.
Ruined it is, like you’ve ruined Cenevax. Leading Jedi to her nest.
She punctuates each of her words with another strike.
How. Could. You. Be. So. Stupid?
(HOLO-NARRATION)
It turns out I had been wrong to wait. Trandoshans came out of nowhere, surrounding us before we could reach for our lightsabers.
(CALLING OUT) There’s no point hiding. Cenevax can smell you. Yeah. She smelled you the moment you sneaked into her den.
Dooku and Qui-Gon are led out.
You won’t get away with this, Cenevax.
Get away with what exactly?
We just watched you murder a CSF inspector.
Watched it, did you? Yeah. But you didn’t stop Cenevax, did you? Strange that. Besides…
She kicks Sartori, who groans.
He’s not dead. Not yet. Take their pretty swords.
You can try.
Let them take them.
But Master…
Do it.
See. The old one, he has brains.
The Trandoshans grab the lightsabers.
That’s it. Bring ’em to Cenevax.
She snatches the hilts from the Trandoshans, examining them.
Oooh. Very nice. Very nice indeed. Cenevax has heard there’s crystals inside, yeah? (GIGGLES) Maybe she add ’em to her collection. Quite the prize.
You’re not going to win, you know.
(LAUGHS) Typical Jedi. But you’re not in yer Temple now, oh-no-no-no. You’ll disappear. How sad. And you won’t be missed. Oh no. Not you. Too much like yer brother…Yeah, Cenevax knows who you are, Dooku. You and Ramil. Like clones in a vat the pair of you. He couldn’t obey orders, neither. Paid the price for it, too.
My brother lives.
Not for long. They told you not to interfere, your Council. They told you leave well alone. But no. You just had to stick your nose in Cenevax’s business, didn’t you?
How do you know what the Council said?
Because her influence goes far beyond corrupt inspectors.
Oh, Cenevax has spies everywhere.
As do I. (CALLING) Now, Calleen!
(HOLO-NARRATION)
With a screech, the convor swept down from on high, talons bared.
Sith spawn! What is that?
The bird flaps around the startled Jenet.
Get it away. Get it away.
(HOLO-NARRATION)
The Trandoshans’ scatterguns came up, but before they could take a shot, we summoned our lightsabers, igniting the blades in midair.
The two lightsabers blaze, cutting down the guards, who thud to the floor.
There’s a pained squawk from the convor, who falls silent.
Master. The convor.
Tasty. Yes, very tasty indeed.
Cenevax throws the bird’s limp body aside.
You’ll pay for that.
How? You’ll never get out alive.
Cenevax scampers on the treasure hoard to get away.
She’s running.
She won’t get far.
(HOLO-NARRATION)
I threw out a hand, stopping the Jenet in her tracks. She clawed at her treasure as I hauled her back.
Cenevax scrambles as she’s pulled back, trying to hold on to her hoard.
No. Stop it. Stop it.
Not until you’ve told me the truth.
What are you doing?
It’s an impressive hoard you’ve collected. You’re obviously very fond of it. Enough gold to drown in.
(HOLO-NARRATION)
I could feel Qui-Gon’s eyes on me. I had played this game before to get what we wanted from Sartori, but was I going too far? Would I really smother Cenevax with her own riches? He didn’t know, and the question was, did I?
(WARNING) Master.
She has a contact on the Jedi Council.
You have no proof.
Tell me who it is!
You won’t kill Cenevax. You’re Jedi. It’s not in your nature. You’re weak.
There’s a slight crunch of metal as Dooku presses her into the gold.
Are you sure about that?
(HOLO-NARRATION)
Unaware of what had happened not three districts from their Chamber, the Jedi Council was in session, although their deliberations were about to be interrupted…
Dooku and Qui-Gon enter the chamber.
Master Dooku.
About time. We summoned you, Dooku. Did you not receive the message?
The message was received, Master Aerith. Loud and clear.
Dooku drops Calleen’s body on the floor in front of them.
Is that…
Lene Kostana’s convor, Master Sinube.
What happened to it?
A good question. Perhaps you would like to examine her body.
We haven’t time for these games, Dooku.
Games, Master Braylon? The bird is dead.
See that, we can.
But can you see the tooth marks, Master Yoda? The tooth marks of a Jenet. One of you had dealings with the creature who did this, the creature who tried to kill Ramil of Serenno earlier today.
That is a serious accusation.
For a serious crime. The betrayal of the Jedi Order. Who will admit it? Who will take responsibility?
Master Dooku. I understand that you are upset.
Upset?
Ramil is your brother, after all…
Only by blood.
But this is not the way. If you suspect there is a traitor on the Council, you should—
What? Call the Temple Guards? An excellent idea. (CALLING) Bring her in.
Temple Guards march in, dragging Cenevax with them.
Get off Cenevax. Let go.
What is the meaning of this?
Cenevax runs an unlicensed gambling ring. She paid my brother to lose the race, and when it looked as if he was about to renege on the deal…
She scuttled his flier.
You can’t prove anything.
Maybe not yet. But we will. We will prove that you have officials in every corner of the Republic. Governors. Inspectors…even Jedi.
Who is it, Cenevax? You wouldn’t tell me in your lair—
Only ’cos you didn’t have the guts to hurt Cenevax.
As you quite rightly pointed out, it is not the Jedi way, but neither is accepting bribes.
Cenevax is saying nothing!
Fortunately, you don’t have to.
The traitor’s own feelings betray her. I can sense her guilt from here.
Dooku activates his lightsaber.
Dooku! What are you doing?
Master Braylon. I’ve known you all my life. Will you lie to me now? Will you lie to all of us?
Braylon?
Braylon rises, her lightsaber blazing into life.
Do you intend to fight me, Dooku? To strike me down where I stand?
I intend only to bring you to justice.
Braylon extinguishes her blade.
It’s true. All of it. I have…looked the other way for years, at Madame Cenevax’s behest.
But why? You have no need for money, dirty or otherwise.
She didn’t pay me. She didn’t have to.
Then what was it?
(REALIZING) Blackmail. What did she have on you, Braylon? What could possibly be so damning that you would abuse your position on the Council?
Atmosphere as before.
(HOLO-NARRATION)
Braylon’s confession shook the Council to the core. I shared their dismay. We pride ourselves on being one with the Force, and yet none of us had sensed the deception in our midst. Cenevax was dismissed, while Qui-Gon and I had business to attend to in the Archives.
Arath.
Dooku. I…what are you doing here?
I’m afraid your secret is out.
I…I don’t know what you mean.
Cenevax has confessed.
We know how you ran up debts with her, Arath. What was it this time? Sabacc? Pazaak?
Batana.
The trickster’s game. Naturally. And then you attempted to talk your way out of it. What was it? You could bring her entire operation crashing down.
You have friends in high places.
The Jedi Council, for instance. But for once, you weren’t lying. What did Cenevax do, Arath? Threaten you? Attempt to blackmail you?
Until you gave her a bigger target.
Your own mother.
You don’t know what you’re talking about.
Don’t I? It’s amazing what traits are passed from generation to generation. Mannerisms. Tics. Even emotional states. When confronted Braylon reacted exactly as you did on Station Zeta, before you were sent home, where she could protect you, as she has all your life.
How long have you known?
That I was hers? After Zeta, I suppose. I had always seen the disappointment in her eyes, but suddenly…
It made sense.
You confronted her.
She was clever, I’ll give her that. A Seeker, away for years at a time. Who would question when she returned with yet another baby, strong in the Force? Nobody even batted an eye when she decided to stay, to join the teaching staff…
All so she could be near you.
Her son.
What’s going to happen to her?
She will face the Council of Judgment. As will you.
And Cenevax?
Yoda arrives with Temple Guards.
None of your concern, Cenevax is.
(LAUGHS) You brought guards. Did you expect me to run?
I’m sorry, Arath.
Somehow I doubt that.
The guards lead Arath away.
Go with them, Qui-Gon.
Master?
Make sure they treat him well.
As you wish.
Qui-Gon leaves Dooku with Yoda.
No harm will come to him.
Can we be sure? (LAUGHS) Can we be sure of anything anymore?
You are troubled, old friend.
I know what it’s like to keep a secret.
Hm. I remember.
She never told anyone, Yoda. All these years, and she kept it to herself.
Yes. Worrying, it is.
Worrying? It’s tragic. One of our own makes a mistake, and what happens? Does she come to us? No. Does she confide in us? No. She’s afraid. Of what we might do, to her. And to her child.
Help. That is what we would have done. What we have always done.
That’s easy to say now.
Monsters, we are not. Feelings we have.
Feelings we suppress.
Trusted us, Braylon should have. Different things would be. Learn from this we must.
And what of Cenevax?
To the Citadel, the Jenet will be sent. Dismantled, her operation will be.
The Citadel? Only Jedi are sent there. (LAUGHS BITTERLY, REALIZING WHAT’S HAPPENING) We’re not going to the authorities with any of this, are we? What am I saying? We are the authorities.
Like this, I do not. But understand, you must…
Oh, I understand, Yoda. I understand all too well.
Meditate on all that has passed, I will. And as for you, sorry for your loss I am.
My loss?
Lene’s convor. Know how much the bird meant to you, I do.
Yes. Yes, she did. But what is it you say? We should always let go of the past…
(NARRATION)
Dooku’s gaze didn’t waver as he concluded his message…
(HOLO-NARRATION)
I understand that Ramil is being transferred back to Serenno. I wish him a speedy recovery. I sense much turmoil in him. Perhaps finally, he will find peace.
As for me, I have decided to accept a position on the Council. Change must come to the Order, and it must come from within.
May the Force be with you, Jenza. Always.
The hologram switches off. Ventress removes the disk.
Dooku on the Jedi Council.
(GHOST)
Is it so difficult to imagine?
In all honesty, yes. But what do I know? I’m talking to a dead man.
(GHOST)
You believe it really is me then?
I don’t know what to believe.
She notices something shifting on the roof. Servos whine on the street below.
But now isn’t the time.
(GHOST)
What is it?
Someone’s finally decided to come home.
(NARRATION)
My quarry is trudging toward his door, servos whining so loud that I can hear them from the rooftop. I leap down, drawing my lightsabers as I land behind him.
Her lightsabers ignite. She thuds down behind the Crolute.
Glute. I’ve been waiting for you.
Wha— Who are you?
(NARRATION)
The Crolute’s voice is little more than a gargle, his breathing labored. He jerks around, corroded cybernetics scraping as he moves.
This won’t be a fair fight.
Where is she?
Who?
Neither of us has time for you to play dumb, no matter how much it suits you. The woman at the spaceport. Where did you take her?
I don’t know what you’re talking about.
Really? Let’s see if we can jog your memory.
(NARRATION)
I sweep low, aiming to slice through Glute’s mechanical ankles, but the Crolute jumps into the air, my blade passing harmlessly beneath metal feet. He kicks out, catching me in the chest.
Ventress grunts as she is kicked back.
(NARRATION)
I’ve been played like a fool. The hissing joints. The wheezing breath. It’s all an act to lower my expectations. I won’t make the same mistake twice.
I spring back to my feet. Glute is running full pelt toward me, his metal-plated head held low like a battering ram.
I somersault over his back, pivoting to slash at his legs. This time my lightsaber meets armor plating and alloy tendons. Glute bellows in pain, toppling forward to land facedown in an oily puddle.
I use the Force to shove him down into the cracked sidewalk. Dooku may have shown mercy when facing the Jenet, but I have no such qualms. Bones and electrodrivers pop, bubbles breaking out on the surface of the water as he struggles to breathe.
Are you ready to talk?
(MUFFLED) Mff gfff mfff.
What was that?
(NARRATION)
I flip him onto his back, holding the tip of my lightsaber to all four of his chins.
Try again.
I can’t tell you. He’ll—
A sudden blaster bolt slams into Glute’s head, disintegrating it.
(NARRATION)
One second Glute has a head, and the next it is gone. I look up to see the barrel of a rifle disappearing over the edge of the very same roof I’d used as a lookout.
Son of a—
A rocket pack fires.
(NARRATION)
I bound back up to the warehouse, throwing up a hand to shield my eyes from the glare of the rocket pack. The sniper is already gone, leaving nothing but a trail of acrid fumes and thick smoke. I give chase, leaping from building to building.
(GHOST)
You’ll never catch him, not on foot.
Ventress slows and eventually stops, breathing hard.
I don’t have to. I know who they are…