A Simple Conference (Daneeology)

[jedi334]

“And here is your official documentation and clearance passes for the conference. Is it just you?”

“Oh no.” Chias Nero said shaking her head and pulling her hood of her robes back running a small through her short spiky white hair “My assistant is at baggage claim gathering her belongings and the recording equipment. I trust her credentials are here as well?”

“Of course.” The young male clerk said with a smile “I’ve already alerted the palace of your arrival. Just hail a speeder and it’ll take you right there. Mr. Jost is expecting you.”

Chias smiled and bowed her head respectfully “Thank you for all your help.” She said “When you see Padawan Sen tell her I shall be waiting at the main entrance of the spaceport.”

“Of course Knight Nero.” He said “Welcome to Theed.”

Chias picked up her small duffle bag and rested on her shoulder as she began walk through the busy terminal, trailing a small metal case along her side as she walked. It was her first on the planet of Naboo and she could not have been more excited. She had been selected by the Council to record the peace summit. There are been a split amongst the human population since the outbreak of the war with the Sith Empire.

While Naboo was under Republic rule there were some that did not see it surviving two ongoing wars between the Sith and the Mandalorians and thus wanted to over throw the current monarchy and join the Empire. Intense fighting had erupted in both the capital and the outlaying settlements across the planet causing much damage and death in the conflict.

When the Senate learned of the unrest many called for the military to send a battalion of troopers in to quell the violence. However Naboo’s Senator promised that she would call for a cease fire from both sides.

With help from Naboo’s Queen and one of the Order’s diplomatic Knights a conference was to be called between the Separatist and mornarchy to air grievances and find a possible end to the conflict.

Chias could see why the Senate & Order would want it done so quickly. With the Empire gaining more ground with each victory in the war, losing one of the Mid Rim’s key planets could cost the Republic dearly in terms of strategy and position.

As a Historian, it was her task to document this conference for the Jedi Archive. While she knew the seriousness of her task she could deny her happiness of being chosen. It was a chance to get off of Courscant and see a part of the galaxy she was unfamiliar with.

“Also it is the first mission I am actually in charge of.” She thought as she ordered a small fruit drink from a stand just inside the main exit of the spaceport. “I just hope I do well.” She took a long sip threw a straw, savoring the sweet taste of the juice as it hit her tounge, going through what she would need to do in the next few days.

Thankfully, she would not need to do it alone, Alaari Sen a Togruta padawan would be helping her. The two had met in the Archive a few months ago and were both friends of Senate bodyguard Mal Denton. Chias had very few real friends in or outside of the Order, but she definitely considered Alaari one of them.

She was only a few years younger then Chias had similar intrest and had several lunches together. She would talk for hours within the study halls of the Archive and had even practiced and spared with her in the training rooms.

She had mentioned to Chias wanting to go back to Naboo and had offered bringing her as an assistant during the conference, and so the two boarded a private transport and made the four days journey through Hyperspace.

Chias explained the purpose of the conference and what both their duties would be, she would record the conference and Alaari would set up appointments and do interviews with those involved. A private bungalow had arranged for both of them upon their arrival where they could relax and prepare for the conference.

While some in the Order would see this as tedious or boring, it was something the young Echani welcomed with open arms. She was not descending into a dark temple on Dorin or being recruited to rescue anyone from mercenaries and Sith. She was not going to be shot at or be in a duel with a crazed Echani mercenary. She would simply be doing what she was trained to do…teach and document.

“This will be easy.” She thought taking another sip of juice. “Just record the conference, interview the important speakers, forward the data to the Temple and then spend the remaining two days relaxing and getting to know my new friend. Just a simple conference.”

She glanced down the walk way for Alaari, her leather wrapped feet sliding on the smooth marble floor as her exposed toes raised her small body up a bit. “I hope she is all right.” Chias said to herself “We do not want to keep our host waiting to long.”

[Danee]

How hard could it be, really? Just pick up the bags and then head towards the meeting location, well, it was easier said than done. Alaari groaned as she waited for the bags to roll out but it took them a lot longer than she thought it would. She sighed and tapped her barefoot right foot against the ground, she had managed to catch her bag and one of the recording gear bags, there was supposed to be at least one more.

Or so she thought, thinking for a bit she thought back to what Chias had said as they had stepped onto the ship to Naboo. The Togruta began to look around for the other bag. "Isn't this just great... the first time I get to leave to a different planet without my Master and I already screw up..." She bashed herself while she continued to scan the belt for the last bag. After walking around for a bit she returned to her original spot and found that the second bag was sitting on the side of the conveyor belt and that she had probably moved it there.

With a heavy sigh she tossed her bag over her shoulder and grabbed the other two before she started to make her way towards where she was going to meet Chias, a soft yawn escaped the Padawan as she passed by a café, she stopped for a second and looked inside before looking around to see if she could see a clock or something. After being unable to find one she shrugged and walked into the Café and exited two minutes later with a cup of tea in her hands. She looked at the two bags she had to carry and then onto the cup.

She sighed once again and walked back into the café and asked for a thermos in which she could store her tea. Again, two minutes later she walked out and put down the thermos into her own bag before she put it back onto her shoulder and grabbed the other two, now she was ready to see Chias, who, hopefully, wasn't too disappointed.

As she made her way towards the location she was going to meet Chias she looked around, being unable to spot her she walked up to a desk when the male clerk looked at her. "Padawan Sen? Knight Nero told me to send you towards the main entrance." he said before she even could ask if he had seen another Jedi.

"Oh... well, is my papers with her then?" the Padawan asked to which the clerk nodded. "Oh... okay, thanks." She said and bowed before slowly making her way towards the main entrance.

As she eventually got to the Main Entrance she could see Chias, moving a bit faster Alaari hurried up to her and stopped right in front of her. "Sorry I'm late..." She said and sighed. "So... how do we get to the Palace?" she added before Chias could say anything, hoping to distract her from the fact that Alaari was close to twenty minutes late.

[jedi334]

Chias smiled gently as she saw Alaari approach, the look of awkwardness on her face as she tried her best avoid obviousness of her tardiness. It was a look that Chias knew from her youngling students back at the Temple when they were running late or were not paying attention during Master Chen’s or her own lessons, not to mention it was a look she herself had given when her shy nature would take over.

She put a reassuring a handing on her friends shoulder. “Do not worry Alaari.” She said tilting her head a bit with a smile “I doubt very much the civil war will reignite simply because we’re a few minutes late.” She motioned to follow as they exited the spaceport. “As for transport.” She said extending her hands and waving lightly. “We need only hail a speeder.”

The speeder move moved quickly down the transport lane into the heart of Theed, the large tower like buildings and domed roof tops dominating much of the skyline as the young Echani took in the citizens of Naboo citizens going about their daily affairs, wearing long gowns and light clothing dyed in deep colors.

Chias had spoken to a few Jedi that visited the city regularly in their travels for the Order, the main consensus was that that Theed was quite beautiful, if you liked museums or cathedrals and taking in the grand structures and minuet details on them she could easily see why. They arrived at the main entrance to the palace, Chias showing the main guard she and Alaari’s credentials before driving up to the main entrance.

Standing atop the stairs was a man in his early fits, his short hair slicked and well combed. His eyes were light blue and head a sharp pointed nose and thin eyebrows. He wore fine siliks colored red and black. His features were impassive and grim and as he saw the two Jedi approached he looked like he would rather being doing anything but this.

Chias climbed the last step and curtseyed and then bowed respectfully to him “Meso Jost? I am Jedi Historian Chias Nero.” She said, nodding to Alaari “And may I introduce my assistant and friend Alaari Sen. It is our honor to record this historic event for the Jedi Archive.”

Courteous and appreciative, that is what Master Chen always taught her when dignitaries of any sort during an event or expedition. Jost however did not seem to be either as he eyed them both slowly. “You were supposed to arrive over half an hour ago.” He said in a curt and sharp tone. “This conference begins to tomorrow and there can be no more delays. Even for Jedi.”

Chias could sense Alaari’s embarrassment without even looking at her, biting her lip in irritation before speaking up “My apologies sir.” She said with a polite smile. “It is my fault entirely. It seems when we arrived it took me some time to retrieve my bags.” She gave a laugh “And then when my assistant went to retrieve our transportation I had gotten lost. Silly I know but it is my first time to your city.”

He glanced briefly at Alaari and then back to Chias. “Yes.” He said flatly “Just be sure to punctual from now on.” He handed her entries keys and packet of files “Keys to your bungalow and itinerary for the conference.” He said “One of her majesty’s handmaidens will take you there shortly.”

Chias quirked her eyebrow a bit looking over his shoulder breifly. “I was expecting the Queen would be here to greet us.” She said “She is one of the people we must interview for the conference.”

Jost scoffed a little “You are aware we are in the middle of a civil war yes?” he said “The Queen’s security is my first priority. You will meet her when it is deemed necessary.”

Chias bristled at the man’s sour nature but bowed her head. “Again I apologize.” She said “I simply wished to thank her for inviting us. I am sure we shall get the opportunity before the conference is over.”

He was silent for a time turned to go, talking as he walked away. “Be here early.” He said “I want your recording equipment set up and both of you out of the way before the dignitaries arrive.”

Chias bit her lip and sighed deeply looking over at the padawan “Oh yes.” She said, her voice dripping with playful sarcasm “I can tell he is thrilled we are here.”

A few minutes later they were taken to their accommodations. The bungalow was far away from the palace grounds. Hidden in a small groove of trees for privacy and a view of one of Naboo’s many waterfalls. The house itself was medium sized, big enough for up to four people with two large bedrooms with balconies and large showers and baths. A palatal living area and small kitchenette and spacious backyard.

The handmaiden, a young girl in her late teens wearing a long gown of blue an white smiled warmly to Chias “The Palace grounds are open to either of you to explore.” She said “And the royal chef will by later to prepare your dinner.”

Chias smiled and bit her lip “Thank you very much.” She said “Tell the Queen we are here to serve her in anyway she needs miss?”

“Sande.” The handmaiden said “And let me express regret for Mr. Jost’s behavior earlier, this unrests has us all on edge. There was an attack on the city just weeks ago.”

“There is no need.” Chias said waving a hand “It is quite understandable. Hopefully this conference will ease the tension and both sides will see reason.” Eventually Sande excused herself, leaving the two alone, Chias sitting down and unwrapped the leather binding from her tired feet looking around at the large living room as she rolled each one up.

“I must say.” Chias said “The Naboo definitely knows to treat their guests. This whole house is the size of a lecture hall back at the Temple.” She slid the wrapping in robes and took her first step bare sighing deeply as she felt the thick carpet on her toes.

[Danee]

As Alaari got up to Chias she bit the inside of her cheek and smiled at the older Jedi, nodding silently as Chias calmed her nerves, she hadn't planned on being this late but things had added up and here she was, almost half an hour late. Silently the Padawan followed Chias, holding the bags as they walked out from the large space port towards a place where they could hail a speeder. They didn't have to wait too long after Chias had hailed for one for one to appear in front of them. After loading the bags into the speeder Alaari stepped inside after Chias, sitting down and looking out the window as the ship moved again.

This was Alaari's second trip to Naboo, one that she had been looking forward to be doing, and now that she was on Naboo she could easily see why she had wanted to return to the planet. There were few signs of the civil war that was going on between the two factions, which gave the impression of peace on the planet, and hopefully, that would be one step closer to happening within the coming few days. When the Palace got into view the young Padawan looked at it in awe, the incredible attention to detail being visible from a distance along with the beautiful architecture.

When the speeder pulled up to the main entrance to the Palace the young Jedi stepped out and took the bags she had been carrying earlier and waited for Chias to join her as they began to walk towards the entrance. Upon seeing the man who seemed to be waiting for the two she bit her tongue, he didn't seem to happy with their late arrival.

As the two got up to the last step, Alaari stopped on the step below Chias', listening to her take the blame for being late. Swallowing Alaari looked up at Chias briefly before looking back at the man apparently named Meso Jost when he said that he expected them to be there early to set up the recording equipment and out of the way when the Queen and the others arrived the next morning. Great, now she had to wake up early too.

Hearing Chias' voice, dripping in sarcasm Alaari couldn't help but giggle lightly at her statement, shaking her head in reply as they shortly after was guided towards where they would be staying for the  duration of  the Conference. Following Chias silently towards the bungalow, Alaari took the time to look around, smiling as she looked at the nature around them. Feeling the soft grass between her toes filled her with peace and calm, this was one of the reasons to why she loved Naboo. To walk barefoot through the smooth grass, to feel a Connection to the land as they walked through the grass. Unlike on Coruscant where she was almost forced to wear shoes should she leave the temple and even inside the temple it was better to wear something on your feet as the stone floor was mostly cold unless the sun had been warming it up.

When they eventually got inside the bungalow the Padawan sat down the bags not too far from the door and began walking around inside the large house, or at least the first few rooms while Chias spoke to the Handmaiden who left shortly after they had arrived.

Listening to Chias comment on the hospitality of the Naboo people, Alaari nodded and smiled. "Yeah, the people here are one of the nicest I've met, which  is one of the reasons to why I love this world." She said and shrugged slightly and took off her robe, setting down the white and red robe down on one of the couches. "I noticed the waterfall when we got here, so I'm going to go there and see how deep the water is, perhaps there's a chance for a swim later tonight." She said and smiled at the Echani. "Wanna follow?" Alaari asked just as she was about to leave the living room and head outside. "Or do you have something else that you have to do?"

[jedi334]

Chias blinked as she went through her mental checklist. Most of what needed to be done would be at the debate chamber in the morning, the minor things she could do herself before going to bed. It had been a long day of travel and the encounter with Jost had drained her last bit of energy. All she wanted to do was rest and eat for even Jedi needed those simple things.

“No, it has been a long journey and our task shall wait until tomorrow.” She said sliding out her robe and hood, leaving her white in her tunic and gown “A swim sounds quite refreshing. It might be the only chance to do so before our work begins. But first we eat.”

She summoned the royal chef, they both watched wide eyed as he expertly prepared a purely vegetarian meal for herself and a plate of fish and potatoes for Alaari, everything was fresh and delicious and the two ate and talk for a good while. It was odd, around most of her fellow Jedi and even Mal Chias was quiet and withdrawn she only spoke up when asked.

But with Alaari she felt relaxed and open; she could talk and be herself and did not worry about making a mistake or misspeaking. With her she could laugh and smile more easily. It was an odd feeling but she liked it nonetheless. Dessert was a collection of sliced fruit and assortment of jams, heavy crème and caramel which Chias wrapped up and took with them as they made there way to the waterfall.

The falls where the bungalow was set was one of Naboo’s larger ones but it cascaded down into smaller and smaller waterfalls until the water flowed down into a large filling pool, the final  stream churning the pool gently with white foam.

It was night when they final emerged from the path Naboo’s moon Rori shining down giving the rocks a slightly bluish glow and the water an inky black color with flecks of white from the stars.

Chias took the site with a deep breath and smiled slowly, inhaling in the warm night air. She looked at the large pool, it definitely looked deep enough and she eager to wash off the fatigue of the day.

At first she considered going in all of her clothes on but then scolded herself, it was just herself and Alaari and there was no one around for miles. This might be her only visit to Naboo, she would enjoy what little free time she had.

She undressed down to her underwear, folding her gown and tunic in a neat pile and setting her saber and belt down, making sure she could see them clearly. She raised her arms over head and stretched as she groaned lightly, feeling the breeze move over her white skin the moonlight making her glow somewhat. She rolled her head around until she heard a satisfying pop of the vertebrate, smiling as she took a slow calming breath.

She dove in a single smooth into the balmy water, swimming under surface for a time until she reemerged floated on her back for a time and admired the starlit sky before swimming over to a rock close by the shore she rested her back against the rough surface, sitting on a small cleft under the water as she faced the young Padawan, the dark water covering her pale form. Her usual short spiky hair was flat due to the water, her long bangs matted on her forehead as her eyes were closed and a content smile was on her pale lips.

“I have an idea.” She said “We go to the conference, tell that unpleasant bureaucrat Jost how to set up the equipment. He can then record the proceedings and we can spend the rest of our time here.” She laughed quietly to herself, knowing full well that neither of them could shirk their duties.

This conference needed succeed if Naboo was to stay with the Republic and it was the Order that spear headed the effort. Everyone always looked to the Jedi to solve to the universe’s problems whether it be the Sith, Mandalorians or countless other issues. It was as if their connection to the Force made it seem like they had all the answers and if it was not the answer people wanted it was the Jedi not the people fault there was trouble.

It truly vexed the young Echani but she supposed it came with the territory of being a Jedi Knight; it didn’t mean she had to like it. She swam a few more laps along the shoreline and then glided to the rock where the fruit plate rested, taking a red pear and taking a bite dabbing it in heavy crème before finishing it.

“Mmmm delicious.” She said “This was an excellent idea Alaari. You must have done this during your first visit here.” She quirked a brow as a thought came “If I may ask.” She said carefully “What were you doing here during your first visit?”

[Danee]

Alaari was just about to head out when her Echani companion said that she was going to join her, after they had their dinner. Shrugging she remained inside the bungalow and waited for the chef, once he arrived and began preparing the food she noticed that Chias ordered a fully vegetarian meal, which confused her slightly, but she didn't ask her about it, instead she watched as the chef prepared Fish along with potatoes for her. Alaari knew that most of the population on Naboo preferred eating vegetables and things that grew from plants but the chef didn't seem to mind cooking the fish for her, so she assumed that he was one of the few in the area who didn't mind it.


As they ate their dinner, Alaari remained silent for a bit but shortly after engaged in a long conversation with the echani, as time passed she looked out the window, it was getting darker but it was still surprisingly bright out for being so late. While Chias wrapped up their dessert Alaari waited for her and then walked along with her to the waterfall which Alaari had noticed earlier. She looked up into the sky, seeing the shimmering stars in the black sky, it was another thing that Alaari had noticed, one moment it could be bright outside followed by the next minute becoming almost pitch black. But as the moon cast its light upon the planet, making the rocks almost glow as she turned her attention to the water in front of them, it looked like a perfect mirror of the sky and as she turned her head towards Chias she saw her undress and fold her clothes together in a neat pile before setting them down.

She felt, drawn, towards Chias and as she leaped into the water, Alaari just looked at her silently, smiling. Moving her hands she too began to undress, folding her clothes into a slightly less, neat pile, and setting them down next to Chias' before leaping into the water herself. As the warm water wrapped itself around Alaari she smiled, moving smoothly through the water before moving up to the surface, seeing Chias sitting by a rock. She moved over towards her friend and heard her suggestion, she moved up to the rock and rested her head against it as she chuckled. "As much as I'd like that, I think that the Council wouldn't be too happy that we spent our days here, swimming instead of working." she giggled and sighed softly, turning around in the water, taking a similar position to Chias as she watched the Echani move away from the rock to swim around the natural pool.

When Chias asked her what she had done on Naboo the first time she was her she blinked. "Ehm... I can't really remember... I've been to Naboo a several times soo... I think... it was shortly after Master Melanie accepted me as a Padawan and we went here on some mission, can't remember what exactly, but we ended up finishing it early so, we went to one of the lakes and just relaxed for a day or two." She replied and looked up into the sky then back down onto Chias.

"Why do you ask?"

[jedi334]

Chias sat on her rock as her blue eyes went wide as Alaari undressed, a soft shade pink going on her white cheeks as she saw the Togruta in her natural state. She had always thought that Togruta’s white patterns were only on their face and neck but now that she saw Alaari completely nude, she saw that moved downed her entire body mainly on her sides, waist and legs. It made her frown a bit at her own appearance as she glanced at briefly at her reflection in the dark water.

While renowned fighters and having a great sense of community and growth the Echani people were remarkably similar to one another, true clans cut their hair differently, wore different colored garments with her own clan colors being blue and white, but when it came appearance it was like kike were all the same. The younger woman was quite beautiful to Chias.

She could try and hide her feelings but it was hard when your friend was trained in the ways of the Jedi just the same as you were, hopefully it would not be awkward if she picked up on it her thoughts.

“Don’t be silly Chias.” She thought, taking another piece fruit and dipping it in the caramel. “She may be a few years younger then yourself but you are both adults. Besides Alaari seems like that wouldn’t bother her...or at least I hope it wouldn’t.”

She smiled and gave another light chuckle when Alaari brought up the Council’s disapproval taking a spur-of-the-moment vacation “Well if they met Mr. Jost, I’m sure they would forgive us.” She said with a playful grin.

She bit her lip lightly and she looked down bashfully when Alaari asked why she was interested in her visits to Naboo “No reason really.” She said, glancing at her friend “I just spend most of my time in the Archive or Temple so I rarely to get to see other worlds or sectors of Republic space. It has only been in the last few years or so that I have ventured outside their walls and have seen what Courscant and the universe has to offer.”

She finished her last bit of fruit and then waded out into the filling pool giving a knowing smile to the Togruta “It is mostly because to my Master, our dear friend Mr. Denton…” the shade of pink returned to cheeks “And yourself Alaari …it is thanks to you all that has given me the courage to experience new things and go beyond my comfort zones. I am eternally grateful.”

She moved her small body and floated on her back, looking up at the moon and listened to the flow of the waterfall...for a while Chias said nothing as she enjoyed the relaxed silence when a thought entered her mind.

Perhaps it was the fatigue of travel, her belly full with food, the warmth of the water or the fact that she was exposed like this in front of another person and feeling completely safe that made it float so easily to surface…but she couldn’t help herself from thinking it. She glanced over at her young friend, biting her bottom lip as she always did when thinking something over as her words slow and careful when she spoke.

“Alaari…” She asked moving her body to wade in the water “Do you ever wonder what it would have been like…if the Order had not found us?” She looked away a bit, knowing the thousand different directions this conversation could take but she looked back to the girl looking to her eyes. “Or if we were allowed to be Jedi but still be able to be people as well?”

[Danee]

Alaari hadn't picked up on any emotions coming from Chias aimed at herself other than the feeling of friendship that they both shared. She looked up into the vast emptiness above them, wondering if she could see Coruscant from here, but even if she was able to, she wouldn't know which one of the stars Coruscant belonged to. Closing her eyes slowly she heard Chias move through the water and after a few seconds she opened her eyes, looking up at Chias with a smile as she looked down at her.

As Chias explained why she had asked about what Alaari had done here on her first trip to Naboo she nodded silently, she could somewhat relate to what Chias said about the Archive and the Temple, Alaari also spent most of her time inside the large building but mostly took whatever chance she could to get off-world. She loved Coruscant, but, the bustling metropolis could be very tiresome at times, which is why she loved Naboo. The planet itself being pretty much the polar opposite of Coruscant, instead of skyscrapers everywhere you had wide open fields, wildlife, friendly population, if she had to choose a planet to settle down on, it'd be Naboo.

When Chias said that it was because of her Master, their friend Mister Denton and, her that she dared try new things she couldn't stop a soft smile. She moved up from her half-laying position and looked at Chias as she lay down into the water, floating around. She could just barely catch the slight color difference on her cheeks.

Then, Chias asked something that Alaari had occasionally thought about, what if the Jedi Order hadn't taken them in, or, they allowed the Jedi to be more like actual people. Alaari blinked and moved her hand to her neck and rubbed it slowly while she looked up at the sky then back down to Chias.

"I think, that, if the Order hadn't found me, or us, I wouldn't have been here today. Or I might have been, I don't know where my parents live, if they live somewhere here on Naboo or in a fancy apartment on Coruscant, but, I'd probably be with them." She said and looked down onto her reflection then back up towards Chias. "And... if they allowed us to be People, I don't know what you're saying, there's a lot of things I sometimes wish I could do." She confesses and shrugs, diving into the water, moving smoothly through the clear liquid before breaking the surface once again. "But... I think, I'd like to be in a relationship... But, I know why it's forbidden for Jedi, it clouds our judgment and, if the time comes, it can make us make the wrong decision." She said and sighed heavily before moving towards the shore. "I think we should head back soon, it's getting late and we have to set up the recording equipment or mister grump will complain."

[jedi334]

Chias listened to Alaari and nodded, there were times she wondered what her life may be been like if she had chosen the path of the Jedi, most likely she would be an advisor to her father in the dealings of Clan Nero eventually taking up the mantle of leader, finding a suitable male companion and siring many sons and daughters to further the family line.

But her father was always pressing that all had a choice and would never force that life on her, perhaps she would have gone to the University on Alderaan or Naboo and become a teacher of history.

So many paths were open to her at the tender age of six but her connection to the Force willed her to take the hard path of a member of the Order, it was a path she never regretted but she could not help looking back now and then.

When Alaari brought up wanting a relationship if given the chance, she felt her small heart begin to beat just a bit faster and harder in her chest as she bit her lower lip gently. Like her initial question she did know why she reacted in such a way but she could not help it.

She felt her heart slow a little Alaari said that relationships clouded the mind of a Jedi and nodded a bit as she cleared her throat and smile with a bit of nervousness trying to collect herself without her friend noticing.

“True.” She said swimming behind Alaari as they both made their way to shore “A Jedi must be on guard of her emotions all times. Otherwise, her path will cast in darkness. And you are right, we should get some rest…it is going to be a long conference and we must be prepared."

She watched her walk on the shore and gathered her clothes, not bothering to dress as she walked back toward the house, Chias caught herself lingering on her friends form and curves as she left giving her head a gentle shake as she snapped herself out of it.

“I am just tired.” She thought to herself as she emerged on the shore and quickly dried off and dressed, grabbing the dessert tray and heading back down the path “It has been a long day and I am not thinking clearly. I shall mediate before I retire and a good night’s rest shall clear my head of these odd thoughts.”

When she returned she went over the interview list with Alaari and where she would be during the conference. She then retired to her bed chamber and showered, putting on a simple long white night shirt and she kneeled on her knees and rested her small hands in her lap as her she closed her eyes and breathed deeply connecting with the Force to calm refocus her mind.

After a two hour sessions she dimmed the lights and settled in the thick warm comforter and she slowly began to drift off…still feeling her heart race a little as Alaari words echoed in her mind.

"I think, I'd like to be in a relationship”

* * *

The morning came early for both of them, Chias trying her best not to smirk as she heard Alaari grumble at having to get up before the sun was up, working in the Archive back at the Temple she was used to early hours...her friend obviously did not.

The Grand Debate Hall was centered the Market District of Theed. Originally the conference was to be held at the Palace but the Separatists party argued it would give the Monarchy an unfair advantage so this neutral location was chosen. The hall itself reminded Chias of the lecture halls back at the Temple.

It was large and circular with tan colored stone both the flooring, pillars and curved benches and tables which started in a large circle and got smaller and smaller the further you went to the main floor which two podiums faced a large grey throne for the Queen and two smaller ones for her advisor and head bodyguard.

Above the lower floor was a large balcony with benches for the public to watch from, large glassless window could be seen every in the as natural light flowed into the chamber making it glow with a light coppery glow as the sun came over the buildings in the early morning sky.

An orderly for the Hall helped Chias set up her station in the far back near the entrance. On a small table was her console which controlled many of the small sphere like camera droids that were set up in various points around the hall, it also controlled the microphones that were set on podiums by the Queen thrones and various other places. It took the two of them over two hours to adjust everything to where they needed to be but they just finished as the first delegate arrived.

Over time the Hall was filled to capacity, a loud hum of conversation flowed through the Hall, Chias’ Force enhanced senses focused melting pot of emotions. Fear, confusion, anger, greed, arrogance, weariness. They ebbed and flowed against one another and she knew it was only a matter of time until these feeling burst forth in a storm of violence.

“I pray this works.” Chias thought “There has been too much death and suffering across the galaxy already, the last thing the Republic needs is another planet siding with the Empire.”

She glanced to the higher level to see Alaari standing at the back entrance by her own console; it was her task to make sure the droids on her level functioning properly. She would then interview the Queen, Jost, and the leader of the Separatists party.

With the first day of the conference simply being the Queen welcoming everyone and both sides giving their opening arguments it would be relatively short proceeding, the real debate of issues would begin the following day.

She locked eyes with Alaari and smiles warmly at her giving a gentle nod of encouragement, she then heard a murmur of excitement as the leader of the Separatist party entered, flanked by two bodyguards.

The first thing that struck Chias was how young he looked. With dark black hair and a deep bronze color to his skin, he looked no older then Chias, he wore a dark olive green military style suit with silvery strips on his shoulders wore a pin on his left breast pocket a silver star surrounded by a bronze ring. He glanced at Chias briefly as he walked past. His look was firm but not cruel, warm but not weak. He gave a half smile and brief nodded to her as he made his way to his podium and prepared his notes.

She then saw Jost enter a few minutes later, wearing similar garments as he did the day before only having a mixture of grays and yellows. He barely noticed Chias as he walked by giving a glare to the Separatist leader as he settled at his podium.

A time passed and eventually the Queen entered from a side entrance as all in the Hall rose as she entered. If Chias was surprised at the Separatist leader’s age she was shocked by the Queen.

She looked no more then 12, wearing a gown of gold and silver, she wore a gold rings on each of her fingers with a silver tiara dawning her forehead with a clear diamond in the middle. Her face was painted in the traditional way of the Naboo with simple stripes of deep blue on the bottom of each eye and in the middle of the top and bottom lip.

“She is so young.” Chias thought as she watched the girl settle in her throne. “It must not easy, having to lead and did with this conflict at such an age.”

The Queen was followed by Sande, the handmaiden which helped Chias and Alaari the day before an older man in his early forties, he was thick and built wearing the uniform of Naboo security forces, a blaster at his hip as both took their seats next to the Queen.

The Queen a gave a nod to all in the Hall “Be seated.” She said her young voice soft but having the air of authority to it. “I wish to thank you all for coming.” She said “These last few months have been hard for the people of Naboo, we come here to set down our arms under the banner of truce to find a solution to this conflict. I wish to thank the leader of the Separatist Jenner Vallen for agreeing to this conference. I know many in your movement opposed you coming here, it shows great wisdom for you to choose diplomacy over continued bloodshed.”

The young man Chias had seen earlier bowed his head respectful and smiled, the Queen eyes then fell to Chias herself as she smiled warmly. “I also wish to thank the Jedi Order for being the driving behind force behind this conference and for also recording these proceddings for prosperity. You have my word we will do our best to end this conflict quickly and with out further violence.”

All eyes fell on Chias as she tried her best not to blush as she curtsied and then bowed to the Queen who then refocused back to Vallen.

“Commander Vallen.” She said “You may begin your opening statement.

“Thank you.” Vallen said, walking out from behind his podium on to the main floor “Your Majesty, Councilman Jost…” He then turned to all in the Hall to address the audience.

“My fellow Naboo.” He said in a loud strong voice “There are those of you who call me and my comrades’ traitors, turncoats and war mongers. While I know that opinion will not change with mere words, I am here to say that we are simply realist who see that the Republic while a bastion of freedom and democracy is fighting a war on two fronts against enemies with far more resources leaving the Republic and Jedi scrambling to defend us.”

He began to be walk back forth slowly. “Each day the fighting rages.” He said “each day our taxes go higher and higher and resources are depleted, each day our sons and daughters die needlessly.” He was silent for a time as he let his words sink into for the audience.

“I can assure you all, I take no pleasure in the course I have chosen, the Sith Empire has committed just many atrocities as the Republic and Mandalorians and dealing with a creature like the Overlord haunts my dreams.” He took a deep breath and gathered himself as he continued “But his representatives have assured me that once the Empire is victorious we shall be brought under their protection and Naboo shall be left govern itself independently. I do this not because I wish to rule or climb the political latter. In truth, I love the Republic and all it stands for.”

His green eyes locked with Chias as he spoke “But I love Naboo more…and I do not wish to see it fall.” He turned to the Queen and bowed, walking back to his podium as pockets of applause and cheering erupted in the Hall as the Queen held her hand up for silence. “Councilman Jost.” She said “Your rebuttal statement please.”

Jost did not move as he glanced down at his notes then cleared his throat “I will not bore this Hall with flowery speeches of ideals or freedom.” He said glancing briefly at Vallen

“I will simply give you the facts.” He said “The Republic is at war; against two trained and vicious opponents yes but it is a war we can win. We can not simply switch sides because we do not like the way things are going. Separatist ideology is not the love of Naboo or wanting to rule independently. It is simple cowardice nothing more. The monarchy has been under Republic rule since its founding and I will be damned if I let Sith soldiers march in Theed or anywhere else on this planet.”

The Hall once again erupted in applause and then followed some heated arguing but again the Queen held her and up for silence as the noise settled quickly. It reassured Chias to see this “Both sides may disagree with each other.” She thought “But they both love the Queen. Hopefully they can build off that.”

“Thank you both for your words.” The Queen said “I know tensions are high, but I hope during these next few days we can find common ground to end this conflict and….”

Chias watched the Queen speak as felt disturbance is the Force, it felt like a gentle tingle on the back of her neck as she looked up to see a dark figure standing in other entrance across from where Alaari stood. The figure was clad in a long black cloak and hood which was pulled down its face so it was hard to see the face. The tingle remind as Chias watched and the Queen finished speaking the crowd began to applaud and rise.

Time to seem to slow down to Chias as the figure drew two long curved blade which crackled with black energy as it bolted down the aisle of the balcony and leap on to the hand rail and leapt down toward the Queen it blade pulled back to strike and Chias focused the Force to propel in her into the air as she tucked her small body in a ball and ignited her lightsaber as she landed gracefully in front of the Queen seconds before the attacker blade crossed with the beam of light.

Chaos erupted in the Hall as people screamed and scattered and the Queen was ushered out immediately along with Jost. Chias in the mean time duel on the debate floor with the assassin spinning her saber in the defensive form of Soresu while twisting her body with the Nero fighting style as she parried and dodged.

The attackers movements were quick almost cat like as countered each attack precise with hard blocks and vicious slashes as they moved Chias back, using a long slender leg and sweep the Echani’s legs out from under her as Chias lay on her back, dazed from the stone floor hitting her the back of her head as the assassin loomed over with their blade raised up for the kill.

Then she heard a blaster go off one of the blades fly out of the attackers hands as both looked to see Vallen standing with a drawn pistol. The attacker hissed at him and flipped over Chias and grabbed it fallen blade and then leapt back up to the balcony and dashed out of the exit. Vallen moved to help Chias up who looked to Alarri her voice rising above the noise as her head motioned toward the fleeing attacker.

“ALAARI GO! I WILL FOLLOW!!!”