STAR WARS: Commence of Darkness

Chapter 17 (Where We Belong)

Talia and Adira's footsteps quickened as they rushed toward the bustling Senate floor. The frantic pace of the people around them conveyed a sense of urgency that sent a shiver down their spines. It was clear that something of immense significance was unfolding, and they exchanged concerned glances, knowing they had to find out what it was.

Pushing through the crowd, they made their way to the Senate floor, weaving between the sea of senators in their elegant robes and dignified attire. Their hearts pounded with anticipation as they approached Yavin's seat, one of the closest to them. Talia slid into the chair next to her parents, who wore expressions of both surprise and concern.

"What is going on?" Talia whispered, her eyes fixed on her father. She could tell from the gravity of the situation that it must be something major.

Her father leaned in, his voice barely above a whisper. "There is urgent news from Naboo about the disappearance of the king. The Chancellor has called a special meeting to inform us of what the Jedi have discovered."

Talia's thoughts immediately turned to Rhett, the Jedi Knight she had fallen in love with. She couldn't help but worry about his safety, especially given the unsettling events that were unfolding across the galaxy.

The hushed conversations around the Senate chamber ceased as Chancellor Myjor Torren stepped forward to address the assembly. The room fell into a tense silence, and all eyes were fixed on the charismatic leader.

"We have been informed by our trusted friends on the Jedi Council that the king of Naboo has betrayed the Republic," the Chancellor began, his voice resonating through the chamber. "In light of this revelation, we are dispatching additional troops to Naboo. The reason behind this action is because, we have received reports that all communications with Naboo have been severed. This news is deeply troubling, especially in the wake of recent events including the death of Jedi Master Jing and the attack on Ossos."

Talia and Adira exchanged grim glances, their concerns for their friends on Naboo growing with each passing moment. The looming threat of war cast a dark shadow over the galaxy, and it was becoming increasingly evident that the Republic was on the brink of a conflict that could reshape the course of history.

Adira leaned closer to Talia, her voice barely a whisper. "We have to go to Naboo, our friends are going to need our help."

Talia nodded in agreement. The bond between them and their friends ran deep, and they couldn't stand idly by while danger loomed. As the Senate meeting continued, they began to formulate a plan to reach Naboo and offer their support to the beleaguered planet. It was a decision that would set them on a path filled with uncertainty and danger, but they were determined to do whatever it took to protect the Republic and the people they cared about.

After the meeting adjourned, they hurried back to their private quarters to gather essential supplies and make discreet arrangements. They knew that their actions would need to be kept off the official records, given the sensitivity of the situation. In a dimly lit room adorned with holographic maps and encrypted communication devices, Talia and Adira huddled together.

"We can't rely solely on the Senate or the Jedi Council for answers," Adira said firmly, her eyes ablaze with determination. "We have to get to Naboo and find out what's truly happening. Our friends and the entire galaxy might be in grave danger."

Talia nodded in agreement. "I've already secured a private transport for us, one that won't draw attention. It's waiting for us in a hangar nearby."

Adira added, "We'll need to keep our actions discreet. The Chancellor's words about the looming war have set the galaxy on edge. We don't know who we can trust or what we will find when we arrive."