The Channel - Conclusion

Darth Nepharia

Rating: NC-17
Warnings: This story is rated NC-17 for the sexual content.
Disclaimer: All characters and worlds in this story are property of George Lucas (and any other legal entity that he might be), with the exception of the characters Selera and Braith, the concept of a channel -- those are MINE!!! -- and the planet earth (I don't think he has a copyright on that yet. 
Summary: Selera weds Obi-wan but....
Feedback to: tboyd1@hotmail.com

"Master Windu, let me get this straight," she said crossing her arms, "For about the tenth time in the past five years, the Supreme Chancellor has insisted that the head of my guard be sent out on a diplomatic mission to where this time? Naboo? To oversee relations with the Trade Federation. Now you are telling me that we need to go search for him because he is missing?"

Windu shifted in his seat uncomfortably.

"Yes, Lady Selera," he answered meekly, "I guess that's exactly what I'm trying to tell you."

Selera shook her head. "You know how much I hate it when Qui Gon gets sent on these extra missions of yours."

"Yes, Lady Selera, I know," he answered.

"I am so busy these days that without him, I cannot manage my own office," she complained, "He takes care of everything for me so my work is never interrupted. It's bad enough that you wouldn't even leave me Obiwan -- he at least knows my habits enough to take his place."

"I know," Windu placated once more.

Selera sighed and glared at the Master Jedi momentarily while she thought.

"Well?"

"Well what?" he answered.

She waived her hands in the air. "Let's get this over with," she said, standing from her chair. She walked to her work desk where her computer was. "I'll have to postpone my first two morning appointments." She glared at him again. "Do you have any idea how long these people have to wait to get worked into my schedule?"

"Yes, Selera, I know. You make sure I know every time I interrupt it." Windu's reply was calm and contrite.

She casually navigated through her schedule, making the necessary changes and then sending them to her secretary.

"It'll be another late night tonight just to see everyone." She was angry with Windu. Not just Windu, the entire High Council. They would arbitrarily do something and then expect her to cover their butts. She made sure Windu could read every one of her thoughts.

"Let's go to the living area," she got up and moved to her living room, sitting down on a couch. Windu sat next to her.

"Ready?" she asked.

"Yes."

She held out her hand and he took it. Immediately the energy drew through her body and Selera navigated the visions quickly to Naboo. What she saw there disturbed her greatly: the people of Naboo were being moved from their homes and cities to concentration camps away from all their precious resources. Many people had already died of dehydration and exposure.

She searched the planet for any sign of Qui Gon and Obiwan and only managed to discover that they had freed the new Queen of Naboo and a few of her close personnel. They had made a risky getaway, but had succeeded.

Selera began searching the nearby systems for any sign of where they might have gone. She finally got to the dessert planet of Tatooine where she found the group.

Qui Gon, she said when she found him, You gave us quite a run, how are things?

Qui Gon sighed with relief within himself, We are safe, but the ship had been disabled. We just finished bartering for the parts we needed to make the repairs.

How long before you make it back to Coruscant? she asked.

A day to make the repairs, probably another day at top speed to get back. We have the Queen of Naboo and her staff, he informed.

Good, I will expect you then, she said, If you don't arrive within that time frame, I will contact you then.

I'm hoping that won't be necessary, but thanks for the offer, he said.

She bid him good luck and good bye before Windu released her from her vision.

"Satisfied?" she asked Windu.

He smiled gratefully and squeezed her hand. She reluctantly returned the smile, knowing full well she would give them anything they wanted, regardless of how upset she was.

"Please let me know the moment they arrive. But if they don't arrive within two days, come back and we'll contact him," she said. "This time, could you please get here a few hours early so my schedule isn't messed up?"

"Yes, Selera. And thank you," he said before he slipped out her front door.

Selera cleaned up the mess from breakfast and finished getting ready for the rest of her day. It would be a long one indeed.

Two days came and went. It was early evening on the second day as Selera finished up the last of her appointments. She made her notes and began cleaning up as she always did before going home. Selera's assistant stuck her head in the door.

"Lady Selera," she called.

"Yes Rai?" Selera answered absently as she continued to put her things away for the night.

"Master Yoda just sent word that Qui Gon Jinn and Obiwan Kenobi just arrived on Coruscant," she informed. "He wanted to know where you were going to be?"

"Oh, good, I was just wondering if they were going to arrive on time," she said. "Please inform Master Yoda that I will be in my apartment."

"Yes My Lady," and she slipped out.

The guard assigned to Selera that day walked her home. He said nothing as they made their way to her apartment. When they arrived, she half way expected Qui Gon or Obiwan to be there, but there was no one. She listened for his thoughts and felt him close by; he was conversing with someone but was too busy to answer her mental proddings. She left him alone and just listened to his thoughts in the background, ignoring them.

She went to her bedroom and removed her dress and put on something more comfortable to lounge around the house in. She put on her slippers as she stepped back out into the living area.

She was startled when a knock came from her balcony door. Her guard stood up and took a defensive stance, pulling his lightsaber from his belt as a precaution. Selera motioned for him to back down as she went to peek out the window to see who it was.

She saw Maul's familiar black robes, in the dim light. She smiled and sent the guard to sit outside her door. "I'll call for you if I need you," she told him. He was a little leery, but did as he was told.

At that moment, Qui Gon called to her, Selera?

Yes Qui Gon? she responded, before opening the door to let Maul in.

We are on our way to see you, we will be needing your services, he said. He sounded as if he were in a hurry.

That is fine, she said. She figured she would see what Maul needed first. Since he arrived unannounced, she could not spend much time with him and would have to send him on his way before the others arrived.

She opened the balcony doors to allow him in, smiling as she did so. He rushed by her and pushed her out of the way before removing the cowl from his head: it was not Maul.

She screamed for the guard and was rewarded with an unceremonious punch to the face by the strange man. She was knocked down and dazed by the blow. She heard the hum of lightsabers and the clash of them colliding: her guard must have heard her and come in. She was relieved to know she was not alone, but she called to Qui Gon for help just the same.

She could not make out Qui Gon's reply because her head was still spinning. Then she felt a pair of hands grasp her wrists and bind them together. The same was done to her ankles. When Selera was finally able to open her eyes and see through the haze, she saw a second man scooping her up off the floor and turn to the balcony doors. Behind them, her guard and the black-robed stranger continued to fight.

As the stranger got to the balcony, she saw Qui Gon, Obiwan, and several other Jedi Knights arrive, lightsabers in hand, to beat back the black-robed man. However, the man who was carrying her had managed to get up onto the balcony wall and, before her friends could get to her, he jumped off. They fell for some distance before he landed on his feet, jarring Selera terribly. He half dropped her at his feet before crouching down and punching some buttons at his wrist. The platform they were on was some sort of elevator, and they descended into the belly of a small ship. It was no transport ship. She knew this because as soon as they were in, he went to the controls and they quickly sped off, faster than an average transport.

Help me Qui Gon, she repeated.

Qui Gon's thoughts were a combination of worry and expletives at her capture; he half blamed himself for not arriving sooner and then blamed her for opening the balcony doors.

I'm sorry, she said to Qui Gon before Qui Gon's thoughts faded into nothing; she was too distant to communicate with him any longer.

She fought her bindings, but it proved useless and she only managed to chaff her wrists and ankles. Her captor paid her little attention as he piloted the craft to some unknown destination.

It took a very long time and Selera slipped in and out of consciousness several times before the ship finally slowed and stopped. The pilot squatted next to her and removed the bindings on her hands and feet and then helped her up off the floor. She rubbed her hands, trying to work the circulation back into them. She had a pounding headache as well.

She watched him as he went to the door and opened it for her. Waiting there was Senator Palpatine.

"I should have known," Selera said. She moved off the shuttle and crossed her arms against the evening chill. "To what do I owe this great honor?"

"My personal plans have fallen through and your Jedi friends are the cause," Palpatine answered. He was pleasant enough, as if he'd just met her for a lunch or dinner engagement. "I can't allow you to have any contact with them until after I have managed to following through with my backup plan."

"Which is?" she asked.

"Oh, Selera," he said, effecting a charming a smile as he touched her chin gently, "While I know that you do not hold sides with either the dark or the light, I can't have you accidentally giving them information that would be useful to them later on."

Selera nodded, afraid of the worst. "So you're just going to kill me," she said.

"Absolutely not," he denied. "I just need you out of the picture until my current plans are complete, that's all."

"And just how long will that take?" she asked.

"Uh, I'm not exactly sure about that, My Dear, that's the problem," he held out his arm to escort her away from the ship. She accepted.

"So what went wrong with your current plan?" she asked as he escorted her into a rather luxurious penthouse, leaving the man who had kidnapped her outside.

It was then he noticed the bruise on her cheek.

"Oh, Selera, I'm sorry," he said, bringing his hand up to her face, "Did my men do this to you?" he asked as he gestured in the general direction of her kidnapper.

"Yes," she answered.

"I'm sorry, they was given explicit instructions not to harm you," Palpatine said. He moved a little closer to her and place his hand over her cheek where the bruise was -- it was still very tender and Selera winced. He closed his eyes as if meditating. As he did so, the pain in her head and the tenderness on her face disappeared. He opened his eyes and removed his hand from her face.

Selera brought her own hand to check her face for the injury, but found it had been healed. "Thank you," she said most sincerely. Palpatine just smiled his reply.

"Well," he began, "you see the Trade Federation is currently laying siege to Naboo." He led her to a sitting area and motioned for her to sit down.

"Yes, I know," Selera responded, as she found a seat. Palpatine sat down in the chair next to her.

"Oh, good, then you may also know that the Queen of Naboo was rescued by your two favorite Jedi," he said.

"Yes, actually I do," she answered.

"What did Qui Gon tell you after he arrived?" he asked.

She gave him a side long glance -- she remembered Qui Gon's conversation with the High Council members after his arrival; however, he actually said very little to her. But she wasn't going to say anything that might betray him, "I don't think that is any of your business. Unless you would care to tell me what your backup plan is?"

"No, but with you out of the picture, it will make my job a lot easier. You won't be there with that brilliant mind of yours letting them know what is going on." he explained.

"So I'm just supposed to entertain myself here until you come back for me?" Selera asked.

"Oh, I'll be dropping in now and then to check on you," Palpatine answered, "and to take advantage of your skills."

Selera sighed and looked at him contemptuously. "You always knew how to show a lady a good time, Senator."

He smiled pleasantly.

"By the way, who was the man on my balcony?" she asked, "Not another Sith?"

"No, no," he answered, "Just a Jedi who has been swayed to the dark side, but not Sith. He is probably dead by now, if your Jedi friends did their job properly."

Selera looked at him in shock.

"Oh don't be so surprised," Palpatine said, "You knew I protected my interests with a passion."

"Mmm, passion" Selera repeated, "not a word I would have used."

Palpatine laughed.

"And who is the man who kidnapped me?" she asked throwing her head in the direction of man standing guard outside the door.

"He is from my personal guard," he answered, "I take great pains in recruiting and keeping very special people for those positions."

"I'm sure you do," she answered, "Too bad you didn't take the same pains with me."

"Yes, a miscalculation on my part, I assure you," he admitted, "Most women are... not like you. But I believe we go over than every time we meet." He stared at her intently and brought a hand to his mouth in contemplation.

"I don't like that look, Sidious," she deliberately used his Sith name. It elicited the reaction she wanted: a flash of anger went through his eyes, but was quickly extinguished. He leaned forward and sat his elbows on his knees, clasping his hands together.

"I have great plans, Selera, great plans," he began, "Regardless of our past, I plan on keeping you in them. Now whether you are a willing participant in them is up to you. It might not be at this time, but I promise you, you will be on my side when all is through."

Selera felt a tingle go up her spine; she didn't like the way he was talking at all.

He smiled that patronizing smiled and he moved from his chair and settled on his knees before her. He gently took her hands.

"My Dear, Selera," he began, his voice like honey, "If my plans play out, as they should, then you will be mine," he paused, releasing her hands and putting a hand on either side of her head and squeezing gently, "Or rather, your mind will be mine. Your body will belong to Maul, as a promise I made to him some time ago." He placed a firm kiss on her mouth; Selera made no response other than grinding her teeth until it was over. He released her and moved to his feet again.

Selera spat on the floor. Palpatine just laughed.

He moved to the window and pulled back the curtains, revealing a breathtaking view of the city planet. "Your stay here should be comfortable enough. Should you need anything, you may ask the guard. I will be sending along another guard to keep you company as well. They will be your servants as well as your jailors" he said as he watched the city. "As I said, I will drop in on you in a day or two and if Maul should happen to return to the planet, I will send him along as well."

Selera was not happy with the current situation, but she had to admit that the prospect of seeing Maul again did excite her.

"Yes," Palpatine said wryly, "I thought it would. It excites him as well."

Selera sat back and felt distinctly like a trapped animal in a gilded cage.

"Good," Palpatine said, turning away from the window, "That's exactly what I want you to feel like."

"Why?"

"Well, would you rather live like this or have the freedom to move around?" he asked.

"Is that a trick question?" she asked.

"If you were trustworthy, I'd give you the freedom to move about," he said. "But since you've already left me once, I don't necessarily trust you...yet."

"What if I gave you my word..."

"And have you accidentally run in to one of your friends?" he interrupted, "I don't think so. They are all looking for you now. And, of course, me and my office know nothing of your whereabouts and are very concerned about your welfare, what with you being a close friend and all."

Selera could not be angry with him. At least this time his actions had definite purpose and she couldn't refute it. How he treated her these next few days would determine whether she willingly became a part of his plans or not.

He smiled. It was genuine this time, "I'm so glad to know that, My Dear."

She rolled her eyes and brought her hand to her to her forehead. "God, you can be so infuriating sometimes."

He picked up his cloak from the back of a chair and threw it around his shoulders. "I shall return soon enough. In the mean time, enjoy your holiday. I know you've had an exhausting time these days with your schedule, perhaps you would just like to rest and read without all your usual obligations. It's up to you." He turned to leave.

Selera said nothing, but watched him go out the door. She sighed. It had been a long day so she decided to go to bed. In the morning she made herself breakfast and indulged in Palpatine's private library, since there was little else to do. The next two days settled into a monotonous pattern of eating, sleeping, reading, and some periodic exercise to keep her busy.

Palpatine stayed true to his word: he dropped in on the second day to talk.

"Exciting times we are in, My Lady." he explained tugging his gloves from his hands and shoving them into his cloak pocket.

"What is happening?" she asked. She had no access to any media that would tell her what was going on in the outside world.

Palpatine just smiled and ignored the question. "You have a visitor," he said.

A hand touched her shoulder and with it that familiar flow of energy through her body. In a single fluid movement, she turned and was in Maul's arms. He pulled her to him and kissed her as eagerly as she wanted to be kissed.

Finally withdrawing, he looked somberly at her face.

"Where have you been? It's been months since I have seen you," Selera said.

"On my master's errands, My Lady," he answered. And he kissed her again, but pulled away and looked at her again, equally serious.

"What?" she asked. He hesitated.

"You fucked that damn Jedi apprentice again, didn't you?" There was no anger in his voice, just hard truth.

"And where were you?" she pulled from his arms. "At least that damn apprentice comes to see me fairly often."

"Of course it doesn't hurt when your Master is Captain of the Oracle's guard, now does it?" he snapped. "Does he know we still see one another?" he asked.

"Yes," she answered, "It bothers him about as much as me seeing him bothers you."

He grabbed her again and kissed her, much deeper and longer this time before pulling away again. "Good," he said and kissed her again. He then moved on to biting her ears and neck.

Is your master going to watch today? she thought, knowing full well Maul was paying attention.

"No," he answered between bites, "He is already gone."

She turned to see for herself: they were alone.

Maul looked at her for a moment before picking her up and retreating to the bedroom.

"We do not have a lot of time," he said as he helped her remove her clothing, "I have another assignment to tend to after we are done here."

"I'm surprised your master didn't make you wait until you were finished," she said pulling off the last of her garments and lying down on the bed.

"We are celebrating his nomination for Supreme Chancellor, which he is likely to get," he informed.

Maul eyed her body, appreciating every inch of it. He put a hand on either side of her hips and caressed her body, stopping only when he got to her breasts. He moaned when he touched them, playing with them and lightly rolling the nipples between his fingers.

He quickly got up and removed his clothing, revealing his need. He laid down beside her and caressed her skin a while before slipping his hand down between her legs. She parted them slightly and he felt that she was ready. He did not hesitate, and was inside of her in a moment.

Selera gasped at the feel of him between her legs: it had been too long. She grasped him around the waist with her legs and pulled herself to him with every thrust and then cried out when they both came. In those last visions, however, she saw something that was not there the last time they met: a fight with Qui Gon on the planet Tatooine.

Through her sex-induced haze, Maul kissed her and spoke gently to her. "Yes, we fought," he admitted, "I was trying to recover the Queen of Naboo from his custody."

"Yes, I know," she answered. He tried to explain further, but his sexual need was great and he took her another several times. By that time, the entire story had played out in his visions every time he came.

Selera's hips were getting stiff, but Maul wanted one more release. He had her change positions to her hands and knees, which was more comfortable for her. And the mirror on the wall across the room allowed her to watch him pleasure himself on her body, an experience she enjoyed immensely.

When he was finally spent, he was sweating and shaking, much like when he took her on Dantooine. He slipped off to sleep while Selera watched him. How she wished they could just disappear and return to his apartment on Dantooine. It had been small, but adequate for the two of them. She also realized that she never did get back to her home planet after that, after Maul promised to take her. Of course, circumstances changed shortly after that.

She sighed, wondering at the complexity of her life and how simple it had been on her home planet. She wasn't sure if she could go back to that simple way of life. How boring it would seem, she thought.

Maul woke from his quick nap, stretching as he looked at Selera. He settled back onto the pillow and just stared a moment before saying anything.

"You are mine," he whispered.

"So Palpatine informed me," she said.

"You are my reward," he said, "Such a reward my master has never given me." He reached out and touched the skin on her arm. "I am content."

She knew that would be the closest he would ever come to telling her he loved her. Indeed, he held such passion, but was not one to express it verbally. His body told her everything.

He rolled up on to his side, facing her, continuing to touch her body.

"I promise, I will return," he said. "And you shall be my mate."

She wondered how that would work: to be the wife of a Sith and the practicing oracle in the Jedi High Council chambers.

"I would not worry too much about that," he advised, "things will likely be much different when I return." He rubbed his eyes and sat up. "I must go now," he said suddenly.

"But you just got here," she protested.

He nodded. "A stipulation I agreed to when Palpatine said you were here," he said, "My master's wishes are always first in my mind."

"Yes, I know," she answered, rolling onto her stomach and resting her chin on her hands.

He got out of bed and began dressing.

"You've always resented that," he stated.

"Yes," she said, "And if I accept your proposal, I never want that man to be a part of our relationship again. I want our lives to be separate from yours and his"

"I believe he senses that now," Maul said pulling on his britches and fastening them at the waist. "I think he wants to ensure your contentment with him."

Selera laughed. "I don't think I shall ever be content with him. I may tolerate him, even work with him, but will never be content with him."

He sat on the bed and put on his boots. Turning around, he reached for her one last time. Selera got up and straddled his lap facing him. He reached back and grabbed her butt and massaged it firmly.

"Mmmm," he said, "It's almost too much of a temptation." He closed his eyes a moment, then patted her behind.

"Get up, I must go now," he said succinctly.

She got off his lap and they both stood up. She reached for a robe and put it on to walk him out. At the door he turned and looked at her as he tugged on his gloves.

"I will return," he repeated, "I promise."

He stepped out the door and was gone.

A great feeling of sadness overwhelmed her as she watched him go. She had no idea how long it would be before she saw him again. Days? Weeks? Perhaps even months, as with this last separation. She sighed and contemplated a life as his mate. Hopefully they could make arrangements to be together a little more than they had managed these past few years. She figured it might take a little more work, but it would be worth it.

She went back inside and to the kitchen to fix herself something to eat. She hated being locked up. How she wished she could just walk in the open fields as she did on her own planet. She cursed the fact that she could not summon a vision to take her home, even as a diversion. Now even making it to the surface was a challenge -- most travel was done in the air and you might spend an entire lifetime having never set foot on the planet surface.

She sat down and ate her meal. When she was done she put her head in her hands and wished she could find some way to get out of this prison. She was bored and there was little to keep her occupied. Her guards were certainly no company at all.

Palpatine was away for about a week this time. When he returned, he seemed agitated. With little aplomb he immediately approached her.

"I need your help," he said, removing his cloak and laying it on the back of the couch.

"With what?" she asked.

He sat down on one of the couches and crossed his legs.

"The captain of your guard and his apprentice, along with the Queen of Naboo, have returned to Naboo," he informed. "At first that was not a problem; however, they have managed to scrape up enough Gungans to create an army -- a liberation force, if you will.

"While not unexpected, I don't believe that it is enough to beat back the armies of the Trade Federation," he continued, "But those Neimodians are less competent and trustworthy than I would have them. I want to ensure they follow my orders and not retreat like the cowards they are."

Selera smiled.

"What is wrong with you?" he snapped.

"I like the fact that you get to squirm this time," she answered as she sat down next to him.

"Take me to the Trade Federation ships orbiting Naboo," he requested.

Selera nodded and took his hand. She navigated through space quickly and took him to the flagship where she monitored their work.

"Good, it appears they have already sent their armies to the surface," he said, "It shouldn't be long now. Go to the palace at Theed, I want to see my Neimodian friend, Nute Gunray, and his people."

She quickly passed through the atmosphere and to the planet surface: it was a beautiful planet and it reminded her of her own home.

"Quit reminiscing and get on with it," he snapped. She immediately broke contact with him.

"Keep a civil tongue in your mouth or I'll do nothing more than put you in orbit around one of the moons of Yavin," she snapped right back. She had never spoke to him like this and it caught him quite off guard.

He sighed, repressing his obvious angry response. "Yes, you are right," he acquiesced and continued in a calmer tone, "Let's continue then?" He was obviously in a hurry and didn't want to waste time with arguing.

She held out her hand and settled back on the couch. He resumed contact and she retraced her steps to Naboo and the palace at Theed. There they found Nute Gunray monitoring the battle.

"Find Maul," Palpatine said.

She moved quickly through the palace and found him watching the battle from a nearby window. She could do nothing but admire his form and looked forward to his return. Sensing the liberation force breaching the castle, he turned away from the window, and hastily left the room.

"What!" Selera heard Nute Gunray yell as she followed Maul, "How did they get in the castle? I thought it was impenetrable?"

Selera followed him to the lower levels off the flight bays where he ran into a small band of liberators. Among them were the Queen of Naboo along with Qui Gon and Obiwan. The queen and her group left the Jedi to deal with Maul. A band of pilots had just left the hangar on their way to the Trade Federation control ship.

"Stay with the Jedi," Palpatine said.

Instead, she deftly followed both groups. They watched as the Queen quickly managed to outwit the Neimodians and retake her throne; Palpatine squeezed Selera's hand so hard he nearly crushed it. She decided to drop that vision and remain at the Power Generator where the Jedi were still battling Maul. Obiwan was trapped behind the electron gate as Qui Gon and Maul continued their struggle. Selera's concern raised to a fevered pitch when she realized that Maul was too fast for the Master Jedi. Maul found his opening and ran his light saber through Qui Gon.

Selera leaned forward and cried "No!" in unison with Obiwan. Palpatine made sure to keep his hold on Selera. They watched as Maul left Qui Gon to return to the Jedi apprentice, still behind the electron gate. Maul paced momentarily as he waited for the gate to reopen.

Selera sensed the animosity between the two men. Obiwan's fury unsettled Selera: she had never seen him angry before. She wanted to say something to them both, but Palpatine convinced her it would be better to let the scene play out as it should. She would have rather stopped the battle before it began, but complied with Palpatine's wishes.

Selera backed away from the two men, not wanting to be so close to them as to read their minds. But neither did she want to leave and not know the outcome. Instead she moved to check on Qui Gon: he was still alive.

Qui Gon, I am here. Please hold on, she said to him, offering him some emotional support since there was little else she could do. He could not answer her, but she felt his gratitude. She looked back to Obiwan and Maul, just as she heard the tell-tale banging of the electron gates about to open.

As soon as the gate opened, Obiwan was on Maul with a fierceness Selera had not seen before. They fought like gladiators; the winner getting to keep his life. Selera gasped when Maul knocked Obiwan into the melting pit, but the young Jedi managed to grab onto a small protrusion on the side. Maul kicked Obiwan's fallen lightsaber into the endless pit and stared down at him, taunting him. She held her breath watching for a moment, but then Obiwan remembered his master's lightsaber and she quietly whispered, Yes, do it!

Palpatine jerked on her hand to maintain her objectivity. Obiwan came flying out of the pit, calling Qui Gon's lightsaber, and the fight was on again. They were magnificent, Selera thought as she watched in rapt attention, almost like a ballet. But she knew one of them was going to die and she wanted that fate for neither of them.

However, in one fluid move, Obiwan struck Maul through.

"No!" Selera screamed. She felt Palpatine's distress as well.

Maul stepped forward, grabbing the Jedi's tunic before releasing him and falling down the deep pit.

Palpatine tried to release her, but she wanted to maintain contact. She flew down the pit to search for Maul's body, but found nothing but a molten substance: his body must have already been incinerated. Flying back to the top of the pit, she returned to Qui Gon and Obiwan. Obiwan was holding his master in his arms and talking to him.

Qui Gon, my friend, she said, reaching out to him.

Ah, Selera, I am sorry, was all he said.

Go in peace, my friend, she managed.

Obiwan.... she said, but Obiwan's thoughts interrupted her.

Selera, come to Naboo, was all he said and he bowed his head over the body of his former master.

Palpatine finally cut off the energy flow between them as he pried his fingers from her hand.

Selera hit the floor and was on her knees weeping uncontrollably; it felt as if someone had torn her heart out. "You bastard," she said. "You bastard!" she said louder, looking up at Palpatine. "It's your fault!" she yelled at him, "If you hadn't instigated this blockade, none of this would have happened."

"How do you think I feel," he said nonchalantly, "I have to find and train another apprentice."

Selera stood up suddenly and began hitting him. "You are such a bastard!" she cried, punctuating each word with a solidly placed hit on his chest. Palpatine grabbed at her wrists trying to control her, without success. Finally, drawing her to himself he held her tightly as she wept.

"It will be better in a few days," he said and let her cry for a while.

He escorted her from the apartment and to his waiting shuttle. When she had cried herself out, she slept.

Palpatine woke her up, "Selera?" he spoke gently, "You're home."

Palpatine took her hand and put his other hand around her, helping her up and out of the shuttle: they were at the Jedi High Council chambers.

Once inside, they ran into some Jedi acquaintances who recognized Selera. Knowing she had been missing, Palpatine and Selera were immediately escorted to Yoda.

Palpatine sat her down in a chair. Her face was swollen and her eyes red from crying; still she said nothing and just stared off into space. All that went through her head was the deaths of her two friends; she suddenly felt her own will to live slipping away.

Yoda tried to make contact with her, even going as far as to draw energy through her, but there was no response.

"Where find her did you?" Yoda whispered to Palpatine.

"She had been left on my front door in this state," Palpatine answered looking to Selera. "She's been like this since I found her."

Yoda thought a moment before responding.

"Tend to her we will. Thank you," Yoda said. He summoned Master Windu and a healer. Palpatine made a quiet exit.

"Aware of Qui Gon's death she is," Yoda informed as they looked at Selera. She sat, staring blankly off at nothing.

"And the Sith's," said Mace Windu.

"Healing her mind needs," Yoda said looking at the healer. "Her body is well, but not for long: contemplates death for herself, I fear."

"I'll do all I can," the healer said. Yoda and Windu left the room, continuing their conversation.

At the first touch of the healer, Selera snapped out of her catatonic state. Looking around, she momentarily wondered how she got there, but she really didn't care: she was free and free of Palpatine -- for the moment.

The healer's touch soothed Selera and eased her intense grief, but it could not remove it. After several hours with the healer, Selera became quiet and knew she would be all right, but she would miss her friends dearly -- no one could make that go away. When the healer was finished he was sweating and fatigued and had to sit and rest for a long while.

"Thank you," she said aloud, for she knew the man had very probably saved her life. Life had still lost much of its luster with the loss of her two friends, but it was not quite as bleak as it had been when she arrived.

"You are most welcome, My Lady," he said.

"How do you do that?" she asked.

"It's all done through empathetic means," he explained. "Little by little I take some of the emotion from your mind and place it in my own before discarding it. And you are correct," he said, "I cannot take away the painful memory of the deaths of your friends, merely the initial pain that comes with such a traumatic experience. You were in greater need than most, I fear."

"How does that affect you?" she asked.

"It will take me several days to recover, but it is something that I gladly do," he said, smiling through his own exhaustion.

"I am most grateful," she said again in thanks.

The man finally stood up and bowed his head to her. "I will leave so you may sleep," he said, "You will feel much better if you do. I go to do the same." He turned and left the room.

Selera went to the only couch in the room and laid down. Sleep came swiftly.

Selera woke with a start: she was no longer in Yoda's chambers. She had been moved to some sort of ship. Getting up, Selera made her way to the door. She opened it and stepped out.

There were Yoda, Windu, and a small group of others from the high council lounging in a small sitting area. They all looked at her, which made Selera self-conscious. The healer had been right: while she was still exhausted, she felt much better, as if she had been washed clean of the terrible grief. The long-term grief of losing two people she loved still remained, but it was tempered by the realization that life goes on and so must she.

"Better are you feeling?" Yoda stood up and walked over to her, taking her by the hand, and escorting her back to the group.

Selera nodded but said nothing: she could think of nothing to say.

"Great victory on Naboo," Yoda informed, "Losses also great."

Selera nodded again, but said nothing.

"Go we to celebration on Naboo," Yoda continued, "Funeral also, aware you are."

He motioned for her to sit down next to him, which she did.

"Qui Gon friend of yours, he was, I know," Yoda hesitated, "And the Sith also, correct am I?"

Selera looked at him and nodded. There was a response from the others at this and some whispers were exchanged. Selera looked around at them. There was a sudden flurry of assaults on her mind. She made sure her thoughts were concealed.

"Master Yoda, your friends are seeking information I cannot give them," she finally spoke. "Your politics are your own affairs, do not attempt to draw me into them." She eyed them all.

Master Ki-Adi spoke up. "You protect these dark creatures, these Sith."

"Just as I have protected you and your council on many occasions. Neither side has an advantage," she answered.

"Accomplishes nothing this argument," Yoda said as he angrily tapped his cane on the floor. "Knows everyone neutrality of Oracle. To everyone gift freely given. But," Yoda turned to Selera, "took you the Sith did, for know of this battle they did?"

She nodded. "I was held captive during this time."

"Why didn't they just kill her?" Master Eeth asked.

"Her gift is so rare and she has been wise enough to allow anyone to use it," Windu answered. "All the opposition had to do was keep her away from us."

"But she still won't reveal their plans, or who the other Sith is," Ki-Adi said, obviously agitated.

"Just as I don't reveal your plans to the dark side," Selera answered. Some on the high council were obviously not happy with the fact that she deliberately withheld information about their enemy. Others seemed to be in agreement with her.

"For our appearances on Naboo, you need to prepare," Yoda told everyone. It was a cue for them to leave Selera and Yoda alone.

Yoda waited until everyone had gone to their quarters.

"Sent some clothes, your secretary did," Yoda started.

Selera nodded. She was still very sad, but it was good to have company. And she always liked Yoda.

"Accept that as a complement, I do," he said and smiled. She had not felt the need to hide all her thoughts from Yoda. At least she could relax a little with the others gone.

He shook his head, "Funeral for Qui Gon first we attend," he said sadly, but continued, "Naboo victory celebration we attend later."

She said nothing, expecting the small Jedi to tell her something else. She halfway knew what was coming.

"Agreed to protect you, we did," he began, "difficult it is without Qui Gon."

Selera opened her mouth to protest. She had thoughts of being turned out onto the street...

"No, no, wait," Yoda put up a hand, "Protect you we cannot without more restrictions. Important you are, next time dark side kill you they may."

Selera knew it was possible. "What did you have in mind?"

"Close you are with Obiwan?" Yoda said.

"Yes, we are....very close." she answered.

"Good," he answered, "Suggest with him formal conjugal relationship."

Selera's eyebrows shot up. "You want us to get married?" she asked in disbelief.

"Highly recommend," he said, with all due seriousness.

"An arranged marriage?" she asked.

"Would it be so bad?" he asked, a glint in his eye. Apparently he was already aware of their existing relationship.

"Talked to Obiwan I have," he said.

Selera's mouth dropped open, but she quickly closed it. She sighed. "I want to discuss this with Obiwan myself."

"Your permanent Captain of the guard he would be," Yoda explained, "With you he would be always."

"But I was taken out from under my own guard," she said, remembering her own abduction. "It was fast and easy for them. All the enemy offered was a simple distraction, and I was gone!"

"Likely your chambers more secure will be," Yoda said, "problems like this we normally have not."

She sat back in he seat and looked at the green little man. He smiled at her, which disarmed her completely.

"This is getting complicated," she finally said.

"Complication common it is," he said. "Expect it."

For the first time since Sidious' meeting did she feel as if there were some hope. But she didn't want to cling to Obiwan in hopes that he would make her happy. She shook her head; he was not there to make her happy, he was going to be there to protect her. She wondered if it could be a happy union in spite of that fact.

"For our friend's passing you must prepare," he said finally as he stood up to go to his own chambers.

"How much longer is it to Naboo?" she asked.

"Not long is it, but long enough," he said as he waddled away.

Selera returned to her room and had thought to dress in a dark color, but decided against it. She hated funerals, she hated wearing black for them. She never thought the dead appreciated the dark colors and she put on the brightest, most formal gown she could find. Actually, it was the gown she would have worn to the Cotillion. Once she was dressed and ready, she felt great and she thought Qui Gon would appreciate it. Or perhaps not, she thought smiling to her herself. He never was one to notice things like that. He was always so single minded.

When she emerged from her chambers, the others were dressed in their Jedi browns and blacks. Some smiled at her appearance, Yoda being one of them. Others did not give away their thoughts.

When they arrived on Naboo, it was late afternoon. They were met by several dignitaries, but Selera stayed to the back of the group, not wishing for any introductions at that moment. They were escorted to a central meeting place where everyone who was to attend the funeral had congregated. She saw Obiwan momentarily before he and Yoda left the room; she wondered what the topic of their conversation would be.

Palpatine stepped over to her; he seemed very pleased to see her.

"Good evening, My Lady," he said, "Don't you look fetching. I'm glad to see that you are in better spirits than the last time I saw you."

She smiled, No thanks to you, she thought.

"You seem terribly happy on such an occasion," she said.

"The death of a Jedi is a sober occasion, but not one of mourning as on your planet," he explained. "We shall all miss him, I'm sure. How was your trip?" he asked suddenly.

"Fine, and yours?" she was sticking strictly to chit-chat in this environment, as was he.

"Good, thanks for asking," he replied. "Come, there is someone you should meet." He took her by the elbow and directed her to the Queen of Naboo.

"Your Majesty," he said to the young queen, "I would like you to meet a dear friend of mine. This is Selera Elia. She is the Oracle of Coruscant."

Selera bowed gracefully, "A pleasure to finally meet Your Majesty," she said, "I am both pleased and disappointed to meet you under such circumstances, but I am glad your sovereignty has been preserved."

"Thank you, Lady Selera," the queen spoke with an affected accent, "I understand that Qui Gon was your personal body guard before being sent to Naboo on this mission, you have my deepest sympathies. He was key in helping me regain my thrown and freeing my people."

"Thank you," Selera answered, "he will be missed more than you can imagine."

The two women smiled at one another.

"I have heard that you are to married soon," Amidala said suddenly, "You have my congratulations."

Selera blinked momentarily, glancing at Palpatine, who also just smiled back.

"Um, well, the details are not completely worked out yet, and I, uh, did not know that it had been announced anywhere," she smiled, being caught off guard.

The queen stepped forward and took Selera's hand, "I'm sorry to have embarrassed you."

"Not a problem," Selera whispered back, "You just caught me off guard." Selera squeezed the queen's hand. It was a relief to touch someone that didn't use her body for the energy it drew.

"Obiwan mentioned it days ago," Amidala continued to speak quietly, "he seemed quiet excited about it."

Selera laughed. "I'm glad to know that," she said, "I just found out a matter of hours ago."

Amidala did not conceal her surprise. "An arranged marriage? I did not know the Jedi believed in such a thing."

"Um, not actually," Selera answered, "We have been.....courting....for some time now." About six years? she thought.

Yoda and Obiwan returned from their discussion and the group quieted down. Yoda and Obiwan then led the group to the funeral temple where Qui Gon's body lay in state on a pyre that had not yet been lit. With little fanfare, Obiwan stepped forward and lit it. Selera's throat constricted and her eyes filled with tears that welled up and spilled down her cheeks. She did not try to conceal her grief.

On her right, Amidala took her hand once again to comfort her. Selera would indeed miss the Jedi Knight.

Selera looked across the room and saw Obiwan staring back at her: she had never seen him so serious. Next to him was a young boy, who said something to him. Obiwan looked away from her to answer the boy's question.

Selera looked at Qui Gon's body as it became engulfed in flames. She thought of Maul and how appropriate it was for him to have fallen in the melting pit at his death.

After the funeral, everyone left the temple and returned to the castle. Amidala had assured Selera that she would have a place to stay in her house as an honored guest.

Yoda caught up with Selera and kept her from leaving with the queen. They were in a large room within the palace. Obiwan found them and sent the young boy with him up with the others. The three of them stood staring at one another from opposite ends of this large, albeit empty, room.

"Each of you, I have talked to," Yoda began, "Both have agreed."

Selera felt terribly awkward and she looked at Obiwan.

He sighed with relief and quickly made his way over to her. "I'm glad, so do I," he said, smiling.

"Settled it is?" Yoda asked.

"Master Yoda," Selera said, "I feel like I'm purchasing something, not accepted a proposal."

"Yes, Master Yoda," Obiwan concurred, "could you please leave us a moment?"

The Jedi Master bowed to their wishes and waddled quietly from the room.

They stood staring at one another again. Selera opened her mind to him completely, she wanted to make sure there were no secrets between them.

"I'm glad you came," he said. "Yoda Knighted me this evening, you know?" he said awkwardly.

Selera smiled, "How wonderful!" It was still awkward. "This is very strange," she said.

"Not as strange as what I have to tell you," he said stepping closer to her. "I had actually already made plans to ask you once we returned from Naboo," he said, "But things went terribly wrong." He stared off; a sad look overtaking his face.

"I'm so sorry, Obiwan," she said, "I knew him six years, you had known him a lifetime."

"Yes, but he is still...around. He will be there when I need him."

She wasn't sure if she understood, but she didn't press the issue.

"And I do love you," he continued, "I know you know that much. I realize you were in the generator room when I was....with Qui Gon, but did you know that I killed...."

"Yes, I know, I saw it all," she interrupted. She bid him to sit down. Then she explained what happened after her abduction and all of the events leading up to how she witnessed everything on the day of the battle.

Obiwan paused and thought for a moment when she was finished.

"And how does it make you feel?" he asked.

"I was grief-stricken beyond all measure, Obiwan," she replied, furrowing her eyebrows. "I've already spent several hours with a healer to get through the worst of it. I realize now that it was either your life or his and he had already taken your Master's life." The tears came to her eyes yet again. "If I had my way, Qui Gon and Maul would still be alive today. But I can't change any of it, and it pains me beyond words."

He nodded, seemingly satisfied with her answer. He stood up and gestured up the stairs, "We should go to bed now, it will be another busy day tomorrow and we will have plenty of time to talk. I'll show you to the queen's private apartment."

He was mindful not to touch Selera, but she wondered why. She would would have welcomed his touch and she half way expected to be invited to his room.

"I cannot, Selera, not tonight," he said as they topped the stairs. "I am sharing a room with someone."

"Oh," she said and nodded, trying to conceal her disappointment. Perhaps it was for the best at that time. She smiled and wished him a goodnight before passing the guard outside the door to the queen's apartment.

Queen Amidala gave her a handmaiden for the evening to tend to her needs, but her needs at this point were few. She put on her night shift and crawled into bed. She wished Obiwan good night, hoping he were close enough to hear it. She sent a prayer out to Maul and Qui Gon and hoped they, too, were close enough to hear it.

"Lady Selera?"

Selera rolled over and continued to sleep.

"Lady Selera?" the voice was more insistent.

She opened one eye and saw Rabe, the handmaiden that had tended to her the night before, trying to rouse her.

"What is it?" she asked as she closed her one open eye.

"It is only two hours until the victory celebrations begin and your presence is required," Rabe held a robe open for her.

Selera moaned and pushed herself up from a prone position. She yawned and stretched as Rabe helped her on with her robe.

Selera rummaged through her clothes trunk and pulled out something appropriate for the occasion. Rabe helped her put in on and then worked on her hair. Selera nearly fell asleep, it took so long. She had no idea what Rabe was doing, but she assumed it was going to look good, judging from the Queen's exotic hairdos.

When Rabe was done, Selera looked in the mirror: her hair was the image of perfection. Not quite as elaborate as the Queen's, but stunning nonetheless. At least she didn't have to wear the heavy face makeup Amidala was obligated to wear in public.

The day turned out to be just as exhausting and emotionally taxing as the days before had been. Amidala saw to it that Selera was part of her entourage the entire day. She hardly got to see any of the Jedi that day, but she saw more than her share of Gungans. She had trouble with their language and that General JarJar (she almost laughed when she had to say it) got on her nerves...a lot. Her nerves were shot by the end of the day.

Even Palpatine was a welcome site when he rescued her from the enclave of Gungans.

"Where would you like to go?" he asked.

"Some place quiet," she pleaded.

"I know of a place," he answered, escorting her to a room in the palace. It was high up with many windows. The view was breathtaking.

Selera took a deep breath.

"Thank you," she said.

Palpatine laughed, "You were not enjoying yourself, so I thought you'd had enough torture for one week."

She looked at him, contemplating him as an adversary.

"Oh no, Selera," he said, "I'm not your enemy, as much as those Jedi masters would have you believe."

Selera laughed this time. "You have respected my boundaries. Well, most of the time, anyway."

"Have you met my new apprentice?" he asked.

This surprised Selera. She gave him a sidelong glance, "No, I have not, who is he?" She wondered how a man could think of such a thing when his previous apprentice was dead not even a few days.

"It was imperative I found one soon," he said, "Things are going to happen quickly now that I am the Supreme Chancellor of the Senate."

"Well congratulations, I don't think you told me that on our last visit," she answered.

"Mmm, well I was a little preoccupied at that time," he said. "We still had some small victories, such as the Chancellorship."

"So is this new apprentice here?" she asked as she walked to the window to take in the sun and the view.

"Yes, in fact he is," Palpatine answered, "Obiwan has agreed to train him as a Jedi."

Selera turned around. "You mean that boy?"

Palpatine nodded.

"Does the boy know this? Does Obiwan know this?" Selera said with a laugh.

Palpatine stepped closer to Selera and lowered his voice to avoid being overheard.

"I've never met a person more strong in the Force," Palpatine seemed excited.

"And Obiwan agreed to train him as a Sith?" Selera said. She could not conceal the doubt in her voice.

"Well, let's just say he is unaware of my plans at this point," Palpatine replied. "Who knows, if I propose Obiwan a generous enough offer, perhaps he will."

"I think you underestimate him," she said.

"And I think you overestimate him." Palpatine retorted. "So," he continued, "Are you actually going to marry him?"

"Well," Selera began slowly, "the arrangement has certain...advantages. Protection, not being the least of these." She threw a nasty look in his direction.

"My Dear," he called her in that sweet tone of his, "if I wanted you, a hundred Obiwans could not stop me."

"Perhaps not, but a hundred Yoda's could," she replied. "You were lucky, Yoda is already contemplating my security when we return."

"Obiwan being the first line of defense," he interjected, but then changed the subject. "So when is the wedding planned? I shouldn't like to miss this."

Selera chuckled. "To be honest, I haven't a clue," she answered. "Obiwan was in a sober mood last night and did not talk much. He didn't even want to...." she trailed off as she stared out over the distant fields. "I certainly hope Qui Gon's death has not changed him too much," she said finally.

"Yes, I understand," he replied, in all due seriousness, "When mine died, it certainly affected me."

Selera thought a moment and then laughed. "When yours died, it was at your own hand," she interjected, "Regardless, I cannot picture you as a carefree young man, no matter how hard I try."

"I was never carefree," Palpatine said, "But, yes, I was young...once. And foolish. But, as you can see, I grew out of it."

"Mmph," was all she said.

"What? You don't agree?" he said.

Selera did not answer.

"Are you ready to return to the festivities?" he asked.

She heaved a weary sigh. "Can't I just go to bed?"

"Well, as a guest of honor, Your Oracleship, you are obligated to see the festivities through to their end," he said mockingly.

"Damn you, Palpatine," was all she said.

He offered her his arm and they returned to the main hall where most of the guests still milled about.

"I love politics," he said, smelling the air as if it were a scent.

"I hate politics," Selera said.

"And if there were no politics, My Dear, you would be out of a job," he said.

"Yes, I'm afraid you are correct," Selera saw a certain amount of irony in that fact.

"Have you met young Anakin Skywalker yet?" Palpatine asked.

"The boy?" Selera asked. Palpatine nodded. "No I haven't. In fact, I haven't hardly spoken to Obiwan all day. It's been chaos."

"Well, when you do," he began whispering, "make sure you shake his hand. I'm curious as to your response."

She looked at him funny, not knowing what to expect.

"Well, to be honest, I don't know what to expect from him," he continued, "But I want to know his affect on you."

Selera chuckled slightly, "I doubt he will have the same affect on me that Maul did."

"That is for sure," he said, drawing near to the group of Jedi where Obiwan and Anakin stood.

"Where have you been?" Obiwan asked, "I've been searching for you everywhere."

"Well, when there are ten thousand people around, it's not hard to get lost." She answered and smiled pleasantly. Everyone looked like they were having as good a time today as they'd had bad the night before. "The Senator, here, rescued me and brought me back to the fold."

"How are you holding up?" Obiwan asked.

"I'm exhausted, aren't you?" she asked.

"Yes, I'm tired," he answered, "I have been wanting to introduce you to Anakin Skywalker here, he is my new apprentice."

"Ah, yes, the Senator here was telling me that you'd taken him on," she smiled at the young boy. He, too, seemed exhausted: yawning and rubbing his eyes.

"Anni, this is Lady Selera Elia," he said to the young boy, "She is the Oracle of Coruscant."

"What is an Oracle," he asked.

"Well, basically, she makes the hidden visible," Obiwan explained. Selera thought it was as good an explanation as any.

"I'm very pleased to make your acquaintance, Anakin," and she deliberately held out her hand so he would take it. And take it he did.

Selera woke up on the floor with a flaming headache.

"Oh God," she said.

"I should have warned you," Obiwan said as he placed something under her head.

Opening her eyes she saw the crowd standing around her.

"I'm fine, I'm fine, I just was not expecting that," she said looking at the young man.

Yoda touched her hand gently, sending a part of his own mind into her, easing her pain. She still could not stand the light.

"Are you all right, Lady Selera?" Anakin asked.

"Yes, My Dear," she answered kindly, "There is nothing to worry about, you are just....special and I had no idea just how special you were." She groaned at the nausea that still remained.

"Obiwan," she said through the haze, "Don't ever let me do that again."

He laughed. "Perhaps that needs to be the first thing we teach him how to do?" he suggested.

Both Yoda and Windu touched her again, easing the rest of her body. The two squatting next to her exchanged glances that spoke volumes. Selera put out her hand to Windu and asked for some help.

He lifted her to her feet and she stumbled, Palpatine caught her.

"Perhaps it is time for you to call it a night," he suggested, squeezing her tightly around the waist.

"Wise the Senator is," Yoda said nodding. "Go will you."

Two palace guards came out of no where to help Selera back to the Queen's apartment and to her private room. Palpatine had followed, no doubt to protect his interest, as he always put it.

Selera dismissed the guards and Palpatine helped her undress.

"Isn't he something?" he finally said, admiration clearly evident in his voice.

"Yes, something," she said, "Something terrible."

Palpatine smiled as he tugged off her shoes. "Didn't I tell you he was going to be mine? It will take little to sway him to the dark side."

"I'm afraid you're right Palpatine," Selera said sleepily.

"You talk as if that is a bad thing," he replied as he tucked her into bed. She fell asleep almost instantly.

Standing there, he looked around before touching her forehead and pulling the energy through her precious body. He sought what she had seen before she passed out and found what he was looking for: a young heart that was as black as the day is long. He released her from her sleeping vision and just caressed her forehead before leaving her alone.

Selera woke up on her own the next day. No wake up calls, no handmaidens, just sunlight coming in the window. She stretched and dozed some more, not caring what time it was. However, her dozing was interrupted by someone opening her door. Shit, she thought.

"I told you she was awake," Obiwan said, closing the door behind him.

She opened her eyes and saw Obiwan and Anakin standing next to the bed. She smiled a sleepy smile.

"Can I help you?" she asked.

"Anakin was feeling terrible about last night and wanted to make sure you were ok, since you've slept so late."

"I would have slept later, if I'd been left alone," she said, throwing a pillow at Obiwan, which he quickly dodged.

"Anakin," she looked into his eyes, "I'm fine. That's what I do, you are just a very powerful Force user and do not know how to control it yet," she said, "that will come with time."

Obiwan sat down on the edge of the bed and looked at the boy.

"Do you like Lady Selera?" he asked.

"Yes, very much," he said, "She is very pretty, but her mind is too busy."

Obiwan and Selera laughed at his reference to her mind being easily read.

"Well, Lady Selera and I are to be married," Obiwan informed. "We will all be living together."

"That's great," he said.

"Now go outside, so Selera and I can talk a moment," he said. The boy left them as instructed.

"What time is it?" she asked, stifling a yawn.

"Past lunch," he answered.

Selera reached out to touch his hand, but he moved it, reaching up to scratch the back of his neck. It was a casual enough move, but she thought it might have been intentional. Perhaps she was just paranoid.

"I think you just have the pre-wedding jitters," he said.

"Oh, I doubt that," she said. "How long did you want to wait before we made everything official?"

"Oh," he looked off at the ceiling, "about six hours."

She laughed, "No, I'm not kidding."

"Neither am I."

She sat up suddenly and looked at him. Mentally, she threw every question at him she could: Why? Why today? Why couldn't we have talked about this first? Don't I get a say? What is the customary length of an engagement? Why not wait until we get back to Coruscant? Haven't we been through enough these past days?

"Why wait?" was all he asked.

She opened her mouth to argue so he repeated himself, a little more insistent.

"Why wait?" He watched her reaction. When she didn't say anything, he presented his argument.

"We're getting married anyway, we've known each other for years, why wait?"

"Obiwan, you are so damn practical! When did this start?" she said throwing herself back on the bed and covering her head with a pillow.

"Come on," he said lifting the pillow from her head, "get up."

"I'll do it tonight under one condition."

"What?" he asked.

"Nothing formal," she began, "and I don't want an elaborate party."

"Oh, no, we don't do that here," he answered, "Weddings are usually very simple occasions. The receptions, on the other hand, are usually quite extensive, but that will probably get held on Coruscant."

"Great, I have one more question," she informed. "Is that why you've not let me touch you since I arrived?" she asked.

"Typically, that's the way once you get engaged," he said.

Selera started laughing, "I bet that cuts down on real long engagements."

"I think that's the intent," he said throwing the covers back from her. "Now, get up!"

A few arrangements had to be made, but the Queen's castle staff attended to them all.

Selera was agitated.

"I could have slept another three or four hours," she complained. "I thought there was going to be something I had to do besides get a bath and do my hair. Now I'm stuck," she said tugging at her dress. It was nothing special: a silver linen with small, black embroidered flowers at the wrist, neck, and hem.

"Yes," answered Amidala, "I find that men are that way sometimes." She smiled kindly.

"But we couldn't have found a more beautiful place to do it," Selera said as she looked around the palace. "The city is beautiful."

"We take great pride in our art and culture," the Queen answered. It seemed as if she were tired as well. Selera figured she was entitled to being exhausted after the past few weeks. She certainly did not envy the task laid out before the new queen.

Selera didn't know what to expect in the way of a ceremony so she asked.

"Oh, it is very simple," Amidala said. "Your dress is perfect for the occasion - simple but elegant with nothing showy or gaudy.

"You will be led in by myself and my handmaiden and handed off to Senator Palpatine, he said that he was the closest thing to a relative you had here. He will walk you around the groom three times, showing you to everyone in the hall.

"Then he kisses you and puts your hand in your new husband's hand. At that time how things go are up to Obiwan. He may want to say something to you or kiss you himself, or he just may take you out of the temple."

"That doesn't seem very exciting for the rest of you," Selera replied.

"Ah, we get to go to have dinner." She smiled and raised her eyebrows.

One of the handmaidens stuck her head into the chamber where the two ladies were sitting.

"Your Majesty, Lady Selera, they are ready for you," was all she said.

The three of them left the queen's chambers and walked to the small temple adjoined to the castle. Selera got an eery feeling because on the way, they met no one except for the occasional guard. She had never seen the castle so empty before. Once they reached the temple, it went as Amidala said. When Palpatine passed her to Obiwan he stood looking at her and said "I promise I will always take care of you." He said it so quiet that only she could hear him. He offered his arm, which she took, and he escorted her from the room.

When they were out of earshot of the temple, she she asked, "Is that it then?"

"That's it," he said.

"No records are kept or anything?" she asked.

"That has all been done on Coruscant, since that is where we reside. Why?" he asked. "Are weddings more complicated where you come from?"

"Oh, most definitely," she said. "Where are we going?"

"To a place in the city that I know," he answered.

"Who's taking care of Anakin?" she asked.

"The Queen's staff," he answered, "You certainly have a lot of questions tonight."

"Well, I'm wondering if my wedding night is going to be a little more exciting than the past few nights I've slept alone."

"Most assuredly," he said.

They passed down another city street and into one of the houses.

"I found this for the night," he said, "I didn't want to spend our first night together in the castle with everyone around knowing what we were doing."

Selera laughed. She felt good. It might be a marriage of convenience, but she thought it was a good arrangement, regardless.

He took her by the hand and led her through the house. They passed a table with food on it.

"I bought dinner if you want to pause and eat first?" but he did not stop long enough to let her answer. Instead, he aimed straight for the bedroom, which did not surprise Selera at all. There were no lights illuminated in the bedroom. The only available light was coming through the window from the moon and external lights.

What was strange was that Obiwan insisted on undressing her, one article of clothing at a time, which was not his style. But, hey, it was his wedding night too, she would let him do whatever he wanted.

When they both stood nude in the dim light, he stepped close to her and took her in his arms, caressing her back. Leaning down he nibbled her ear and down her neck. She became breathless in his grasp. He placed her on the large bed, but she knew she would get little sleep this night if it continued like this.

He played with her body as he never had before: touching, kissing, sucking, biting, it's almost as if he were out of control, but careful to never draw any energy through her body. Selera was hardly disappointed though. The longer he went on, the less like himself he acted.

Obiwan finally slipped inside of her and began a fierce rhythm. All at once he ceased feeling like Obiwan, and felt more like Maul in her arms. At that moment, he leaned down and whispered in her ear:

"I promised you I would come back." It was Maul's voice and Maul's touch, "And you are now my mate....our mate."

Selera didn't know what to think. She waited. And when the man inside her came he drew the energy through her and she saw the personal visions of not one, but two men. As soon as he rolled off of her, she fumbled around for the light. Once it was on, she turned back to the man and saw Obiwan's face with the familiar yellow, star burst eyes that she missed so much.

END

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