Chapter Text
The soft hum of our ship's engines faded as we set down on the landing pad in front of the majestic Jedi Temple. The vast structure towered above us, its spires reaching for the sky, a testament to the power and wisdom of the Jedi Order. My sisters and I stood together, cloaked in hooded robes that concealed our faces, making us appear as mere shadows against the backdrop of the temple.
As the ship's ramp descended with a slight hiss, we stepped out, our eyes adjusting to the bright sunlight reflecting off the temple's white marble walls. Waiting for us was a Protocol Droid, its polished metal body gleaming in the sunlight.
"Welcome," the droid chirped, its voice crisp and mechanical. "I am NO-8OT, protocol and liaison for the Jedi Order. May I inquire as to whom I have the pleasure of addressing?"
Ruth let out an irritated noise, a soft huff escaping her lips. "The Jedi call for us, yet they don't have the time of day to greet us themselves when we arrive," she muttered, her voice tinged with annoyance.
Salma, always the peacemaker, placed a gentle hand on Ruth's arm. "They may have good reason, sister," she said, her voice calm and soothing.
The droid tilted its head slightly, its sensors no doubt scanning us beneath our hoods. "If you would be so kind as to identify yourselves and state your purpose here," NO-8OT inquired politely.
"We are here to speak to the High Jedi Council," Salma replied, her voice firm but respectful. "Yoda sent us a message requesting our presence."
The landing pad was expansive, paved with a smooth, gray material that contrasted sharply with the temple's white stone. Tall, ornate lamps lined the perimeter, their soft glow casting long shadows as the sun began its descent. Beyond the landing pad, manicured gardens stretched out, filled with exotic plants and tranquil ponds, a serene oasis amidst the bustling cityscape of Coruscant.
The air was filled with the distant sounds of the city – speeders zooming by, the murmur of conversations, the occasional shout. Yet, within the temple grounds, there was a palpable sense of peace, a sanctuary from the chaos of the galaxy beyond.
As we waited for the droid to confirm our arrival and lead us inside, I remained silent, my thoughts swirling. What could the High Jedi Council want with us? Why now, after all these years of keeping to ourselves? I felt a mix of curiosity and apprehension, a sense that our lives were about to change in ways we couldn't yet foresee.
But for now, we stood together, united as always, facing whatever awaited us with a blend of trepidation and wisdom.
"Indeed, I have notified the Council of your arrival. They are awaiting you now. Please follow me," NO-8OT announced, its voice echoing slightly across the landing pad.
We trailed behind the droid as it began to lead us away from the landing pad towards the imposing Jedi Temple. The landing area gave way to the intricate architecture of the Temple, its spires reaching skyward like the fingers of an ancient giant.
As we walked, the weight of Jedi scrutiny pressed upon us. I could feel the gaze of unseen eyes following our procession, their curiosity evident even though their faces remained hidden.
Ruth's impatience bubbled up, her voice edged with annoyance. "I still don't understand why we're here. The Jedi call, and we drop everything to answer? It's absurd."
Salma, ever the voice of reason, responded with a calming tone. "There might be good reasons we're not aware of, Ruth. Let's give them the benefit of the doubt."
Ruth let out an audible huff, her annoyance palpable. "I just don't understand why we have to waste our time with the Jedi. We have our own lives to attend to. I thought we made it known we will not fight in their petty war."
While Ruth and Salma conversed, I struggled to maintain focus. A dull ache pulsed in my head, distracting me from their discussion. I found myself drifting, my thoughts wandering as I tried to suppress the pain and discomfort.
The path we followed was lined with statues of revered Jedi, their stone faces solemn and watchful. The walls of the Temple were adorned with intricate carvings and symbols, each telling a story of the Jedi Order's long history.
NO-8OT led us through a series of grand archways, each more ornate than the last, until we reached the entrance to the Temple's main hall. The massive doors loomed before us, engraved with scenes of Jedi carvings.
As we prepared to enter, NO-8OT turned to us one final time. "The Council chambers are just ahead. They are expecting you."
With a mix of apprehension and curiosity, we stepped through the towering doors, the mysteries of the Jedi Temple unfolding before us.
As NO-8OT stepped aside to allow us entry into the grand hall of the Jedi Temple, Salma and Ruth walked past the droid in silence. However, I hesitated, feeling a sudden and intense pulse of pain in my head. The world around me blurred as my headache intensified, making it difficult to move or speak.
Salma and Ruth, noticing my absence, stopped by the entrance and called out to me. "Alexis? What's wrong?" Salma's voice echoed with concern, while Ruth's expression hardened with worry.
I remained still, my eyes shut tight against the pain. The walls of the Temple seemed to close in on me, their ornate carvings becoming a dizzying swirl of colors and shapes. I reached out to touch the cool stone for support, my other hand pressing against my forehead in an attempt to ease the throbbing.
Inside my head, a cacophony of sounds erupted - the distant clash of lightsabers, anguished screams echoed in my mind, the unmistakable sounds of blasters firing, overwhelming my senses. It was as if the Temple walls had become a window into a chaotic and violent future. In my vision I tried to look around attempting to look for the source of this terror.
After what felt like an eternity, I felt a gentle hand on my shoulder. It was Salma, her voice filled with concern as she repeated my name, trying to pull me back from the vision that held me captive.
"Alexis... Alexis, can you hear me? Snap out of it," Salma urged, her words a lifeline in the midst of the turmoil.
Ruth stood behind Salma, her expression a mixture of impatience and concern, while NO-8OT remained motionless, observing the scene with its unblinking mechanical eyes.
Slowly, the intensity of the vision began to fade, replaced by the cool touch of the Temple stone beneath my fingers and the comforting presence of my sisters beside me. Sweat trickled down my forehead as I struggled to regain my composure, the weight of the future I had glimpsed still heavy on my mind.
The grand hall of the Jedi Temple stretched out before us, its towering columns and intricate mosaics a testament to the Order's long history and wisdom. Soft light filtered through stained glass windows, casting colorful patterns on the polished marble floor. The distant murmur of voices and the faint scent of incense filled the air, adding to the Temple's mystical atmosphere.
With Salma's help, I finally managed to pull myself from the grip of the vision, taking a shaky breath as I opened my eyes to the reality of the Jedi Temple's halls; it was quiet and peaceful.
"I'm sorry... I just have a headache," I murmured, attempting to straighten up and regain my composure.
Desperate to escape the overwhelming sensations, I pleaded with Salma, "Please, let me go back to the ship. I can't... I can't do this right now."
Ruth, however, stood her ground, her voice firm and unwavering. "If I have to go, you have to go."
Salma sighed, her eyes filled with understanding but also determination. "We must see what the Jedi Council needs from us. It's important, Alexis."
Reluctantly, I trailed behind my sisters as we continued towards the entrance of the Jedi Council chambers. My head remained bowed, the hood of my cloak shadowing my face once more, shielding me from prying eyes.
The massive doors before us hissed open, revealing the imposing chamber of the High Jedi Council. The room was grand and circular, its walls lined with tall, arched windows that bathed the chamber in a soft, ethereal light. The floor was a mosaic of intricate designs, each pattern representing a different aspect of the Force.
In the center of the chamber sat the members of the High Jedi Council, their faces wise and serene. One seat, however, remained conspicuously empty, the absence of its occupant sending a ripple of curiosity through me.
Yoda and Mace Windu, two of the most revered Jedi Masters, greeted us with a nod as we entered the chamber.
"Welcome," Yoda began, his voice gentle yet commanding. "Grateful we are, for your presence here today."
Mace Windu nodded in agreement, his expression more reserved but welcoming nonetheless. "Indeed. The Council has summoned you for a matter of importance. We trust you will assist us in this issue."
"We are honored to be summoned by the Jedi Council. Though unexpected, we are willing to assist in any way we can," Salma spoke up, her voice steady and respectful.
Yoda, with his penetrating gaze, responded, "Remove your hoods, show your faces to us, you must."
Without hesitation, Salma and Ruth lowered their hoods, revealing their distinctive features. Salma's dark brown eyes reflected a depth of wisdom, complemented by her dark brown hair and fair tan skin. Ruth's white eyes were striking against her dark brown hair and tan skin, hinting at her unique nature.
I, on the other hand, kept my hood firmly in place, my gaze still lowered to the ground. The tension in the room was unspeakable, both parties sizing each other up with a sense of mutual respect yet caution.
Ruth, ever the defiant one, retorted, "We didn't come here to be scrutinized for our appearance."
Mace Windu, unimpressed, responded, "Seems like you haven't changed one bit, Ruth."
Before the tension could escalate further, Salma interjected with diplomacy, "We aren't under the impression that we were summoned here merely for casual conversation, respectfully Masters. May we inquire as to the reason behind our summons?"
Master Yoda nodded, acknowledging Salma's point. "Called you- are to assist Jedi Knight Anakin Skywalker and Master Obi-Wan Kenobi on their mission to Felucia."
Ruth let out a scuff of irritation, her voice dripping with sarcasm. "So, we're assisting Jedi on a planet that can't even get a hold of themselves. Fantastic."
Salma shot Ruth a brief, disapproving glance before addressing the Council. "Please, ignore her remarks." She then looked up, meeting the Council's gaze, her expression one of genuine curiosity mixed with concern. "Forgive me for asking, but why would you need our assistance when you already have a Jedi Knight and a Master on the mission?"
Master Yoda, ever the patient and wise, responded, "Special skills and insights you possess. Help the mission you can, in ways the Jedi cannot."
Mace Windu added, "The situation on Felucia is complex. Your unique abilities could provide a different perspective and aid in achieving our objectives."
Salma nodded thoughtfully, "I see. We will do our best to assist in any way we can."
While the conversation unfolded, I kept my head down, my hood still obscuring my face. I listened intently, feeling a sense of conflict stirring within me. The energy between my sisters and the Council was palpable, and I couldn't shake off a feeling of unease. The weight of the mission and the expectations placed upon us by the Council felt overwhelming, yet I remained silent, absorbing every word spoken.
Ruth's disapproval was evident as she spoke up with a firm tone, "What? I did not agree to this."
Salma sighed softly, turning to face Ruth, tilting her head slightly in an attempt to calm the escalating tension. "Ruth, we must consider the bigger picture here."
Ruth met Salma's gaze, her expression defiant as she launched into a passionate rant. "We have always maintained our independence, staying out of the public affairs with the Jedi. Now, you want us to get involved in their missions? This goes against everything we've stood for!"
Master Plo Koon, his voice calm yet authoritative, interjected, "Independence does not mean isolation, Ruth. The galaxy is in turmoil, and even those who choose to remain neutral have roles to play in restoring balance and peace."
Ruth's eyes flashed with frustration as she responded, "But at what cost? Our freedom? Our principles? We've managed to stay out of the Jedi's conflicts for this long, and now you expect us to throw it all away?"
Salma, ever the diplomat, tried to mediate, "Ruth, we are not abandoning our principles. We are being asked to assist in a mission that could have far-reaching implications for the galaxy. Perhaps it's time we reconsider our stance and decide where our loyalties truly lie."
Kit Fitso spoke up in response, his voice calm yet firm. "Circumstances sometimes require us to set aside our personal preferences for the greater good. Your assistance could prove invaluable in this mission, Ruth."
Ruth scoffed, her defiance evident. "Invaluable or not, it's not our responsibility to clean up the messes made by the Jedi Order."
Ruth crossed her arms defiantly, her frustration evident in her posture. "I disagree with how the Jedi rules dictate one's life," she asserted firmly.
Before Ruth could continue her protest, I cut in, my voice soft but filled with curiosity. "Who is Anakin Skywalker... that is a name I've never heard of before."
Yoda, the oldest and wisest of the Council members, responded to my question with a measured tone. "Anakin Skywalker, a Jedi Knight, he is. A skilled pilot and warrior, he has become."
Ruth huffed in exasperation, her disagreement with the Jedi Order was still apparent. “ It doesn't change the fact that we are being forced into this.”
Salma intervened, her voice calm and diplomatic. "Our purpose here is to assist in bringing peace to Felucia. Let us focus on that Ruth."
Standing there amidst the tension, I finally spoke up, breaking the heavy silence. "Ruth, you are right... we shouldn't abandon our ways of independence. We left the Jedi Order for a reason. But Salma is also correct... We made a pact with each other. If anyone is in dire need, we would assist to the best of our abilities."
Taking a deep breath, I lifted my head, pulling back my hood to reveal my face. My round, heart-shaped face and light tan skin contrasted with my dark brown eyes. My straight hair cascaded over my shoulders and chest as I looked up to address Master Yoda directly.
"Master Yoda... where do we go?" I asked, my voice soft yet determined.
Yoda regarded me with his ageless eyes, sensing the sincerity in my words. "To Anakin Skywalker and Obi-Wan Kenobi, you must go. Fly to the location of their flagship. They are unaware of your assistance."
Salma nodded, her face reflecting a blend of relief and determination. "Thank you, Master Yoda. We will proceed as instructed."
Ruth, still skeptical but somewhat resigned, added, "Fine... But we're doing this on our terms.”
Salma nodded in agreement, “Agreed, we will assist, but we will maintain our principles and independence throughout the mission.”
The Council members exchanged glances, recognizing the compromise and the determination in our stance. It was clear that while we were willing to assist, we would not abandon our beliefs and values in the process. “May the force be with you.” They spoke in unison as we bowed our heads slightly before turning to walk away.
~~~
The hum of the ship's engines filled the silence as we approached the looming flagship, a vessel that housed the renowned Jedi Knights, Obi-Wan Kenobi and Anakin Skywalker. The journey through hyperspace had been quiet, the tension palpable among the three of us. While my sisters remained lost in their thoughts, my mind was consumed by the vision that had plagued me earlier.
The atmosphere on the ship was heavy, each of us grappling with the decision to assist the Jedi and the potential dangers that lay ahead. The disagreement had left a lingering unease, casting a shadow over our mission.
As we neared the Assault ship, I could feel the weight of numerous eyes upon us. We were drawing attention, our arrival unexpected and unannounced. Anakin and Obi-Wan were unaware of our presence, adding another layer of uncertainty to the already tense situation.
Finally, our ship landed with a soft thud, the docking bay doors opening to reveal the bustling activity of the Assault ship. Jedi, clone troopers, and various personnel moved with purpose, their attention now focused on our unexpected arrival.
A group of Jedi approached, led by Anakin Skywalker and Obi-Wan Kenobi. Anakin's eyes held a spark of curiosity, while Obi-Wan's expression was one of cautious interest.
Anakin spoke first, breaking the silence. "I wasn't expecting additional assistance. To what do we owe this unexpected honor?"
Salma stepped forward, her demeanor calm and composed. "We've been sent to assist you on your mission to Felucia."
Obi-Wan nodded, studying us carefully. "Your help is appreciated, though we were unaware of your arrival."
Ruth, unable to contain her stubbornness, replied, "It seems there have been a series of miscommunications. The Jedi council thought it would be better for us to assist you both on the mission. However, we're here now, and we intend to assist on our own terms."
Salma stepped forward, offering a respectful nod to Obi-Wan. "My name is Salma, and these are my sisters, Ruth and Alexis."
As Salma introduced us, Ruth, clearly irritated, pulled her hood up and turned, making her way back onto our ship. Her abrupt departure only added to the tension that lingered in the air making the situation more uncomfortable than it had to be.
I felt the need to explain, my voice soft as I spoke up, "Do not mind her... it's been a very long journey."
Anakin, his curiosity evident, asked, "What happened?"
Gathering my courage, I looked up to meet the eyes of the Jedi before us. "We usually don't undertake missions. We aren't Jedi, and we aren't aligned with... well, any faction. We value our independence and hold our own set of morals. However, it seems we were needed, so here we are by request of Master Yoda."
Obi-Wan studied me for a moment, his expression thoughtful. "Every ally brings something unique to the table. We appreciate your willingness to assist us, even if the circumstances are not ideal. We are definitely intrigued by why Master Yoda would send you and not tell us anything."
Salma nodded in agreement, her gaze steady. "Despite our differences and the unexpected nature of our arrival, we are committed to aiding you in any way we can."
The air still held a hint of tension, but there was also an underlying understanding.
I glanced around the bustling hangar, my eyes widening slightly at the sight of the numerous clones preparing for the mission. "There are so many…" Her voice trailed off, and she lowered her gaze, attempting to avoid making eye contact with anyone.
Salma, sensing my discomfort, placed a warm hand on my shoulder, offering a reassuring squeeze. I looked back up, meeting Salma's supportive gaze before turning her attention back to Obi-Wan and Anakin.
"We didn't realize we would be surrounded by so many clones," Salma remarked, her voice carrying a hint of surprise.
Anakin, ever the teacher, corrected her gently, "They're not just 'clones'. They are Troopers, trained for combat. They are our allies and play a crucial role in our mission."
Obi-Wan added, "Our main goal is to reclaim and stabilize Felucia. The Separatists have gained ground, and it's imperative that we regain control to restore peace to the planet and its inhabitants."
Salma nodded, absorbing the information. "Understood. We'll do our best to assist you and work alongside the Troopers to achieve the common goal then."
As the man in white and blue armor approached, walking beside Anakin, he spoke up with a sense of urgency. "General, you are needed on the bridge." Standing at attention, he glanced at Anakin, his helmet held loosely in his hand.
I looked up from the floor, her eyes slowly traveling from the trooper's boots to his head, taking in his imposing figure. Anakin acknowledged the trooper's message with a nod before turning to us.
"Allow me to introduce Captain Rex," Anakin said, gesturing towards the trooper beside him. "He's one of my most trusted men."
Captain Rex stood at attention, his blonde hair contrasting against the white armor. Unlike other clones, his features bore signs of weariness and experience, giving him a distinct presence.
Salma offered a warm greeting, "Hello, Captain Rex. It's a pleasure to meet you."
I attempted to speak, opening my mouth but found myself momentarily lost for words. I took a moment to study Rex's tired features, his face bearing the marks of countless battles and hardships. Eventually, I averted my gaze, the weight of the moment leaving me feeling slightly overwhelmed.
Captain Rex, ever the professional, responded with a curt nod. "Ma'am," he acknowledged, his voice steady and respectful.
Anakin, sensing the slight tension, tried to lighten the mood. "Captain Rex here has been instrumental in many of our past missions. His leadership and combat skills are second to none."
Rex gave a humble nod, "Just doing my duty, General."
Obi-Wan turned his attention to Captain Rex, "Rex, could you please assist the ladies to an empty chamber? They'll need a place to get settled in before we reach Felucia."
Rex responded with a crisp salute, "Of course, General Kenobi. I will see to it."
Anakin placed a reassuring hand on Rex's shoulder, giving him a slight nod of approval, before walking away with Obi-Wan, discussing the upcoming mission.
Salma glanced at me, sensing my discomfort, and gave me a soft, understanding look. She then turned to Rex, "Let me just fetch my other sister, and we will follow after you."
Salma walked away, leaving me standing alone in front of Captain Rex. The atmosphere seemed to thicken, time slowing down as an awkward silence settled between them. I kept my gaze lowered, avoiding eye contact with Rex, my hands clasped together in front of me as I rubbed my knuckles with my fingers..
Rex, noticing my unease, tried to ease the tension, "It's quite a ship, isn't it? Takes a bit of getting used to."
I nodded slightly, murmuring, "Yes, it's impressive. We've never been on a ship quite like this before, we usually stick to our small ship."
Rex, attempting to engage me in conversation, said, "Well, you'll have plenty of time to explore. The journey to Felucia will take a few days."
I avoided making eye contact, my gaze fixed on the floor.
Captain Rex, ever observant, noticed my hesitation. "You don't have to be nervous," he said gently, attempting to ease the tension. "We may be soldiers, but we're here to help and protect."
I hesitated for a moment, then lifted my gaze to meet his dark brown eyes with my own. Our eyes locked, and a brief but undeniable connection seemed to form. I took a deep breath before speaking, my voice polite but quiet. "I remember a time when the Jedi didn't need soldiers."
Rex's expression softened, understanding filling his eyes. "We get that quite a lot,” He held his hands behind his back. “I know it may seem like a lot to take in," he replied, choosing his words carefully. "The galaxy has changed, and we all must adapt to the challenges we face. We were created to support the Jedi and maintain peace during these difficult times."
"The Jedi slowly lose their way each day the more they fight in this war," I continued, my voice carrying a hint of sadness, "and don't realize how they are contributing to the chaos."
Rex paused, taking a moment to absorb my words before responding. "It's a complex situation, and I understand your concerns. Many of us soldiers often ponder the same questions. We follow orders, trusting that our leaders have the greater good in mind. But sometimes, it's hard to see the bigger picture when we're in the middle of battle."
His honesty surprised me, and I felt a newfound respect for Captain Rex. The weight of our conversation hung in the air, a silent acknowledgment of the underlying tensions and uncertainties that shrouded our mission in general.
"As soldiers, we are trained to follow orders without question," Rex continued, "but that doesn't mean we don't have doubts or concerns. Your perspective, coming from outside the Jedi Order and the military, is valuable. It's essential to question and challenge, to ensure we're always striving for what's right. But for us troopers well – Good soldiers, follow orders."
I glanced at Captain Rex before crossing my arms under my large bust, feeling a surge of conflicting emotions wash over me. His words had struck a chord within me, resonating with a truth that I couldn't ignore. But despite his reassurances, I couldn't shake the feeling of unease that clawed at the edges of my consciousness.
"It's nice to see it from a trooper's view," I mumbled, my voice barely audible, "but in the Jedi's way... it's much harder than that. No matter what... the future is coming back with heavy consequences that the Jedi are not prepared to handle."
"War brings about challenges and dilemmas that no one can truly prepare for," Rex responded, his voice equally soft. "But I believe in the resilience of the Jedi…especially in General Skywalker and General Kenobi. The Jedi have faced numerous trials throughout history and have always found a way to persevere."
I met his gaze once again, the intensity of our eye contact speaking volumes about the depth of our convictions. We stood there, two individuals from vastly different worlds looking at the galaxy in two different glasses.
“And what if they can’t face this trial head on…what if the Jedi can’t persevere this time?” I questioned him before looking away once more.
Before either of us could dive deeper into our conversation, Salma and Ruth returned, breaking the intense moment between Rex and me.
"We're ready, Captain Rex," Salma announced, her voice bringing us back to the present.
Rex nodded, his attention shifting from me to Salma and Ruth. "Very well, this way please."
Rex gave a nod, his gaze lingering on me for a moment longer before turning to lead us to our chambers. As we followed him, I couldn't help but ponder the complexities of war, alliances, and the unforeseeable future that lay ahead for all of us. Was this the war that would finally end the Jedi once for all? All the screams- the pain- the anger for the future. This war would be all for nothing