Wed Feb 17, 2010 7:43 am by Ael Jade
After Jade returned to the Stronghold, quiet organized activity became more pronounced. Only Al'lara knew what was going to happen, but Jade's staff knew that something was about to change. She walked silently through the rooms of the old building... in the main banquet hall the large mural of a predatory raptor holding two gemlike worlds in its grasp was still destroyed. She remembered the Sith attack that had discovered a few of the nasty booby traps set up in this place. It was always interesting to feign compliance and then watch the reaction of the 'prey' as they became the 'hunted.'
The slim woman smiled to herself, the warlike gleam returning to her eyes. Yes, she had been here far too long... in a position she did not like. It was time to change that. She walked up to her room and looked at her old datapad...across the screen in flashing letters it reminded her that today was the opening of the Fian Senate that she had called for. The planet was in a prosperous economic state...and the people were highly educated. She thought it was time they could begin to do some things for themselves.
She called Al'lara, and welcomed her into her room when a quiet knock sounded on the door. Her faithful lieutenant stood there, after saluting in the old fashion. Jade thought back, remembering how Al'lara and her twin sister had joined her... it had been years since then and much had happened. Notably, Al'lara was still alive... her sister was not. The lightsaber she carried was still concealed, instead a blaster on her hip was the open weapon that others could see.
"Today I address the Senate... you know what will happen then Al'lara. You've been trained for this. I will keep in contact with you as I can. But I have every confidence in your ability to further the work in progress on this planet."
Jade had been speaking over her shoulder as she packed a couple things together. Then she turned to look at her subordinate.
"You've proven your ability."
She smiled. Jade knew that Al'lara wouldn't actually speak until necessary due to the strict discipline that had been maintained and the hierarchy of authority. Once she was ready, both of them left the room, walking to a specific location. Jade bowed, and then picked up the long sword that had rested in an empty chair almost since she had arrived on planet. Then, she spoke again.
"Have our speeders ready in five minutes. I'll see you then."
They both turned and carried on. Jade slipped the sword over her shoulder, smiling as the comforting strap was once again in its accustomed place. She suddenly realized just how long her life on this planet had been. For the last time, she picked up her small bag...she didn't have many personal possessions...and proceeded to the entrance to the Stronghold. She glanced back once, saluted the guard. And nodding to Al'lara, they both mounted their speeders, and followed by a small honour guard, proceeded to the main Senate Hall in Gal'fian'deprisi, the capital city of Galantos.
