The Channel - Section 2

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 discovers her talent is also of interest to the Jedi.
Feedback to: tboyd1@hotmail.com

Selera progressed quickly, as Palpatine said she would. Being virtually alone on Dantooine didn't hurt. Selera was successful in hiding or revealing what she wanted. She could even lie to him without his knowing.

"Be careful who you lie to," Maul counselled. "Sidious will not take kindly to being lied to. If he thinks you are, he will punish you in ways that will make his rape of you seem tame, I do not doubt it."

"What an utterly horrid man, if man he is," she answered.

"Maybe so, but he can also be very generous. You would do well to know this."

Maul had been very distant ever since they had left her home planet. She also missed the mystery of not knowing who and what he was. It kind of took all the fun out of their relationship. She sometimes felt like nothing more than just another tool he used to fix his ship or to search out Jedi for his master.

"That will be enough for today. You have done well, Selera. I am impressed with your skills," he said.

"When will I be ready to go back to Coruscant?" she asked.

"You are ready," he answered. "But I did not think you wanted to return so quickly?"

"No...and yes," she replied. "I am anxious to see how well I do when it counts. But I don't want to see Sidious."

"Understandable. But you will be required to do both," he responded.

Selera sighed.

During their last night on Dantooine, Maul came to her. It was the first time since arriving there that he had done so. Selera was tired, but the constant nibbles on her neck and the growls low in his throat made her give in. The visions started as soon as he entered her and this time he had no qualms about letting her view his personal life. In fact, he let her do so half a dozen times, until he shivered from exhaustion.

"If you needed release so bad, why did you not come to me before?" she whispered.

"I was ordered to ensure your training. That I did. Now I can take my pleasure," he answered between chattering teeth.

"Maul, does Palpatine expect of me what he expects of you?" she asked. This had concerned her for some time. Maul's discipline was legendary, she assumed it was the same with the Jedi. She had none.

"He expects what he expects. Don't disappoint him and all will be well," he answered. His teeth has stopped chattering and he was mumbling his words as if he were half asleep.

As he finally drifted to sleep, Selera watched him. She was concerned about the coming times and what she would do. The intrigue excited her; Lord Maul excited her even more. The humorous thing about all of this is that Lord Maul, while emotionally detached, treated her better than any man ever had on her own planet. He was always honest and forthright. If he couldn't tell her something, he didn't lie to her; he just didn't tell her. He gave her everything he had when he had it to give. He expected the same from her.

Perhaps that was why she didn't like being around Palpatine. Maul's focus turned to his master, regardless of any feelings for her. He let Palpatine do what ever he wanted to her, which cut deeply into her soul. At least she knew where his loyalties were and he was consistent.

The next day was boring, punctuated with short periods of extreme activity. The trip back to Coruscant was long because she decided to try and not sleep through it. A few episodes of nausea were all that she experienced.

When they were on the outside of the system, they came across a diplomatic ship hailing them on Maul's secret channel.

"It is Palpatine's private ship," Maul informed. "We are transferring you to their ship for the journey on to Coruscant. I will meet you at my master's apartment."

"Why? What's going on?" she asked.

"He has not informed me of his reasons," Maul responded, working the controls to slow for docking with the larger ship. "We will do as ordered. I will meet you on Coruscant later," he repeated.

Before he opened the airlock to let Selera go, he put his hand behind her neck and stole one long kiss. "Remember what you learned."

"I will."

Maul opened the airlock and there was a docking umbilical between the two ships. Maul gently pushed Selera into it, and she quickly walked across into the waiting ship. She turned in time to watch him disappear behind the airlock once again.

The airlock in front of her opened. "Lady Selera, it is a very great pleasure to meet you," the woman took her hand and shook it, "Your uncle sent us to retrieve you and to get you ready for your reception on Coruscant. We have little time for pleasantries, so if you will follow me, we can get you all fixed up in no time at all."

The woman continued her banter the whole time as she oversaw all the preparations. She was bathed and dressed and made up in a very formal burgundy gown. Selera did not like the heavy make-up, but it did make her look stunning. She knew that she had to carry herself to match the outfit: this was her disguise. And niece to Senator Palpatine; she wasn't sure what type of reception she was walking into or why.

The ship landed on an air dock. It was high in the sky, floating in a stationary position with nothing but a relatively small ramp leading to a transport. When the airlock finally opened, Selera straightened herself and stepped from the ship. She was greeted by the Senator, who was at the base of the steps. She smiled immediately upon seeing him. There were others, about fifteen in all, but they did not appeared to be there for her arrival. She made her way down the steps and gave the Senator the required kiss on the cheek before he grabbed her and hugged her like a long lost child.

"It is good to see you, My Dear," he said as the others approached. "I hope your journey was not too arduous."

"It was as much as could be expected, but I am well rested," she played along with the cherade.

"These people are from the Jedi High Council, they arrived shortly before you. Come, I will introduce you," he said, taking her by the elbow and escorting her to the people. How convenient, she thought, an entire group of Jedi to test her new skills upon. She still managed to maintain her dual thought process and keep others who would read her mind out of it. Palpatine was taking a great risk by exposing her to such a trial so early after training.

She was introduced, one-by-one, to several people. She knew she would not be able to touch any of them unless instructed to do so. She bowed her head graciously to each one, exchanging nothing but courteous pleasantries.

"I would like you to meet Master Yoda of the Jedi High Council," he motioned to the three-foot tall, green creature before her.

She concealed her surprise and bowed to him as well before turning to Palpatine. "You did not tell me that I would be meeting such distinguished people, Senator.

"Well, when one is trying to help your mother marry off her youngest child and only daughter, you tend to be a little more selective with the people you let her meet." Palpatine responded.

Selera was surprised and sighed heavily at the comment. She eyed her "Uncle" with disdain.

"Marry she will, when ready she is, I think," Yoda finally answered with a laugh. "Escort to the cotillion with me, you will?" he asked Selera.

Selera nodded, "Yes, it would be a great honor."

Yoda laughed and then lowered his voice, "Introduce eligible Jedi to you, I can."

Selera sighed. "Not you too," She worked hard at keeping her real thoughts behind a mask of innocence. "I was hoping I could enjoy myself while I was here," she said eying Palpatine. He sensed the double meaning, even though she still clouded her thoughts from him.

"Good time young people seek always," Yoda answered with a sigh. "Old though I am, bad time I will not show you."

"I will hold you to that, Master Yoda," she replied, smiling kindly at the odd little man.

"Time here you enjoy," he said briefly before turning to Palpatine.

"I will, thank you," she replied. Senator Palpatine and Yoda made some small talk while she looked around the platform at other people whom she did not get to meet. She supposed they were all dignitaries of some sort or another. Then she caught site of a pair of men, standing on the edge of the platform. They were talking to one other. The older of the two appeared to be bored, as if waiting for something, but the young man standing next to him was wide eyed and appeared to be enjoying himself.

When the young man turned around, she saw a long, narrow braid down his back. She knew it was the sign of a Jedi apprentice. He was pleasant to look at as well.

"Caught her fancy, our young apprentice has, mmmm?" Yoda said to her, startling her out of her thought.

"Oh, uh, yes...I mean, no...I mean, I was just wondering..." she stammered through a response.

"An introduction make we can, I think," Yoda said. He leaned forward and whispered to Selera: "Master approve not, I'm sure, but young apprentice, fun also need."

Selera smiled at him. Palpatine tugged at her elbow. Selera bowed her head and wished the Jedi High Council member a good day as she followed Palpatine from the platform. But not before she made sure she caught the eye of the young Jedi apprentice.

"Tastefully done, My Dear," Palpatine commended, when they were alone in his shuttle.

"I'm glad you approve, My Lord," she answered, bowing in respect.

"Neither you nor Maul have disappointed me," he continued.

Selera smiled, pleased that he was happy. She did not want to end up back in his bed.

"I want your thoughts, My Dear," he said, "Do not cloud them from me when we are alone."

"Yes, My Lord," and she let down her defenses with a sigh.

"It is difficult to maintain, isn't it?" he responded. "But you have done an exemplary job," he continued his praise. "And you must give more effort than most because you are so easily read."

"Thank you," she responded again.

"And, no, you will be sleeping alone tonight," he answered, "Unless Lord Maul desires your company. He does seem rather fond of you."

Selera said nothing and made sure her mind was blank. Keeping her mind blank was almost as difficult as clouding her thoughts.

"What do you want, Selera, My Girl?" he asked suddenly.

"Want?" she was confused.

"A reward for your hard work," he explained.

Selera thought a moment, "I would like to visit my home again, I think."

"Fine, I shall arrange it then," he beamed at her as he tugged off his gloves and shoved them in his cloak pocket. "But I want something from you first."

"Yes, My Lord?"

"I want you to show me what else you have learned," he said as he approached her. He touched her arm and slid it down to her hand, which he grasped. "Show me that young Padawan's conversation with his master." Once he said it, he began drawing her energy. She had learned to navigate the energy and direct her thoughts to a certain place or person. The two men were no longer on the landing platform, but were on a shuttle. Master Yoda was with them. He and the elder Jedi were arguing:

"Master Yoda, I don't think it is appropriate for an apprentice to entertain young courtiers," the elder said.

"Qui Gon, understand I of Obiwan you are protective, but of this I must insist," Yoda replied.

"This is highly irregular," Qui Gon protested crossing his arms defiantly. He was very agitated

"That may be, but reason I have." Yoda maintained his calm. "Hush, now. Watched we are."

Palpatine released her and looked at her gravely. "Very good."

"You weren't counting on that, were you, My Lord?" she asked.

"I knew it might be possible," he replied. "You noticed, however, that only the strongest of them could perceive us."

"What do we do?" she asked.

He gave a wry smile. "That means we practice more and hone our craft until we are undetectable."

Selera smiled at him. She liked the cat and mouse games. And if it got her close to that Padawan apprentice, all the better.

When they reached Palpatine's apartment, Maul was already there. He stood up at their arrival.

"My Master," Maul greeted Palpatine.

"My Apprentice," he smiled at him. "You have done extremely well. She fooled even the High Council members."

"Outstanding," Maul nodded to Selera, but maintained his severe demeanor.

They stood looking at one another. Selera felt very strange. How did she ever get from digging in her garden on her own little planet to where she is now in a matter of months?

"My Dear, it was no accident, I assure you," Palpatine said as he walked over to a small wet bar. He poured himself a drink, then held up the bottle, offering her some.

She nodded, "Yes, please."

"I sent my apprentice to your planet because I had a dream that there was something precious there that would aid us in our quest," he continued. He brought Selera her glass of blue liquid. She brought it to her nose: it was potent smelling. She only took a sip, but found the flavor very pleasing and the effects astounding. Her entire body relaxed and grew warm; hiding her thoughts would be impossible after very much of it.

"Good?" Palpatine asked.

She smiled and nodded.

"It's from Naboo. It's made from a local plant." He smiled briefly at her. "It is obvious that you will not be able to do any drinking at the cotillion, but you are safe here, drink up."

And she did.

Palpatine continue his story. "I had no idea that we would find you. It certainly was worth the wait, though." He placed a hand on her shoulder; she almost dropped to her knees from the shock of energy that passed through her. The liquor wasn't helping at all.

"Ooops," Palpatine grabbed her before she fell, "Why don't you sit down." He eased her onto one of the couches. She got the distinct impression that it hadn't been an accident.

Selera's head was spinning almost as if she'd already had too much to drink. Before she knew it, the Senator was placing a newly filled glass in her hand.

"Oh, no, I couldn't, My Lord..." but the look he gave her made her keep it.

"We should have another gown commissioned for you," he said, looking down at her.

"But I already have three," she protested, "I've never had more than two in my entire life." She was feeling the effects of the liquor.

Palpatine sat down next to her, "My Dear, this is the life you have chosen," he whispered in her ear, "would you have me return you to your planet and leave you there so you can return to digging in the dirt?"

The effects of the liquor were quite intoxicating and she found herself aroused by Palpatine's whispers. "No, My Lord," she whispered back, "No." She closed her eyes, unable to keep them open again. Her head was spinning and her body was warming up.

Palpatine touched her cheek, being careful not to draw any energy from her, "Good, I thought not." He stroked her neck and brought his lips to her skin, nibbling gently on her neck and ears.

"Selera," he whispered gently.

"Yes, My Lord," she said barely above a whisper as she enjoyed his ministrations.

"I want you to please my servant, Lord Maul,"

"In what way?" she asked.

"In any way he wants."

When she woke, she could scarcely remember the previous evening. And when she tried to recall parts of it, it seemed as though Maul did his own amount of pleasing as well. Palpatine was present through it all, though he never participated. Her body gave an ecstatic shudder as she recalled it. A figure in the bed rolled over in response to her sudden movement and Selera jumped, letting out a small squeal, not realizing anyone was there. It was Maul. She smiled, "Oh, it's you." She stretched out her body and yawned.

"Who were you expecting?" he asked sleepily.

"I wasn't sure, I thought I was alone," she answered.

"No, I slept here, but I'm not sure I will do that again," he said very seriously. "You have very strange dreams."

"Strange in what way?" she asked.

"They kept waking me up," he answered. Selera laughed.

"I'm sorry, perhaps it would be best if you slept in another room. I don't know what the affects of our touching while I'm asleep. That could be the reason for the strange dreams," she answered. She rolled up on her side to face him.

"Yes, you did." he said.

"Gosh I hate it when you do that," she protested, "I wish you would at least wait until I ask first."

"Fine. Ask me."

"Did I do what Lord Sidious requested of me?" she asked finally.

"Yes."

"What did he do?" she asked.

"He just watched," Maul answered.

"Watched?"

"That's what he normally does," Maul replied.

"I don't think the Jedi do this," she said finally.

"Some do, but not like this." He smiled wickedly.

"But many of the women you've taken before are dead, aren't they?" she asked.

Maul was silent for a moment before responding. "Only the women that have seen My Master and I together, yes."

"So, what sort of qualities did you look for in a woman before bringing her back here?" she asked.

"I did not find them. My Lord brought them for me. He knows my appetite. I know his," he answered.

Selera understood, "So you fucked them, and he killed them. Is that the way of it?" Her tone was snappish.

"Yes."

"When does he plan on killing me?" she asked.

"He does not plan on killing you at all," Maul said as he reached up and stroked her arm.

"So how does he satiate his appetite?" she asked.

"You misunderstood," he answered, "I like sex - he likes watching. That is why this is the perfect arrangement. And because you are here means no women have to disappear to fulfill both our desires."

"Aren't we a wicked trio?" she replied. "So will he expect to watch us every time we....?"

"No. And we do not have to wait until he is around before we...." he imitated her. Then he placed a hand on her stomach, caressing down to the place that he was thinking of. She opened her legs to accommodate him.

When she woke later that morning, Lord Maul was gone. She figured he was on some errand for Palpatine, while Palpatine had to tend to Senate duties. As Selera continued to doze, she was interrupted by some sort of alarm. She got up, wrapped a sheet around herself, and wandered into the living area: it was coming from the door. Selera opened the door and saw the Senator's assistants that had picked her up in his private starship.

"Oh!" the woman said, seeing Selera's state of undress. The woman hurried in, a man and another woman behind her. The woman bundled her back into the guest room, where she had been sleeping and got her ready for the day.

"What is going on?" Selera asked sleepily as the woman tugged her clothes over her head.

"You have engagements today, My Lady," she answered, pulling a small device from her vest pocket and punching some buttons. "You have an appointment to get measured for a new gown for the Senate cotillion, then lunch with the Senator," the woman looked up at Selera and smiled brightly, "a fitting for your gown this afternoon, and dinner with Master Yoda of the Jedi High Council and some of his escorts."

Selera moaned.

"I'm sorry, the Senator's orders. He said we were to bring you whether you wanted to or not," she said.

"That's ok," Selera answered, "I needed to get up anyway." It was obvious that Senator Palpatine was not going to leave her to her own devices just yet. Although Selera would have just wanted to lounge around the apartment for another day before things got started. She was so tired.

After her dress appointment, she got dragged to a cafe where Palpatine was waiting for them. It was in a large atrium where the ceiling appeared to go up forever, while the floor was made out of a pink marble of some sort.

"Thank you for safely delivering Selera," Palpatine said to her escorts, "Wait outside, we will be out when we are finished," he said, dismissing them.

Palpatine smiled cordially and held out Selera's chair for her.

After they were both seated, the Senator leaned over to her and whispered, "That was quite a performance you put on last night."

Selera gave him a sharp look before answering, "You didn't tell me that stuff was an aphrodisiac," she whispered back.

"Now, now, let's be civil," he chided. "There are bound to be Jedi around. Ensure no one knows who you are."

"Yes, Uncle."

"I figured you wouldn't want to be cooped up in that apartment by yourself, so I had some activities planned for you," Palpatine said as he laid his menu aside.

"Some activities?" She gave him an incredulous look. "I won't get home until late this evening," she protested, "And...."

"Senator," came a voice from behind.

Palpatine stood from his chair. Selera stayed seated. She could not see who it was, but the voice sounded familiar.

"We are very sorry to interrupt your meal with your niece, but Master Yoda sent us to inform you that his party will be unable to make it to dinner this evening. We were wondering if perhaps now would be a good time?"

"For certain," he answered, and offered the two open seats at their table before sitting down. Selera looked up at the two people who flanked her: one was Qui Gon Jinn and the other his apprentice, Obiwan Kenobi. Selera gave the latter a slight, but pleasing smile. She sat up straight in her chair as she watched the young Padawan seat himself. She made sure her feelings about the young man were clear to both of them. She knew they would both be reading the thoughts she wanted them to see. The apprentice returned the smile in kind.

Qui Gon was not pleased, but appeared to be carrying out orders, much like the face Maul presented when he was fixated on a mission. She was sure that she was his mission.

"Selera, may I introduce you to Jedi Master Qui Gon Jinn and his apprentice, Obiwan Kenobi," Palpatine made the formal introduction. "Gentlemen, this is the daughter of an old family acquaintance, Selera Elia. Not my niece, actually, but her family and mine have very strong ties."

Selera made sure not to touch either man for fear of giving herself away before the necessary time. "It's a pleasure to meet you both," she said.

The conversation started with simple chit chat. Selera only spoke unless asked a direct question.

"My Dear," the Senator spoke to Selera, "Yoda has assigned Obiwan Kenobi to be your escort at the Senate Cotillion."

"Oh, well, that was very kind of him, but I thought he was going to be escorting me?" she asked.

"He will be there, he just thought that a young girl such as yourself would appreciate an escort who would better suit your needs," Qui Gon Jinn answered.

"Please tell Master Yoda thank you for me, will you?" she responded to Qui Gon.

He bowed his head slightly in response, "I will pass that along."

"What brings you to Coruscant, Lady Selera?" Obiwan asked her suddenly. Qui Gon instantly paid him with a dirty look. Selera wondered what else was said with that particular look, knowing the communication between master and apprentice was not always verbal.

"Well, it was decided that I was old enough to get out and see other worlds and that I should travel to make me a more well-rounded person," she answered. "I was going to spend my time on Tatooine," she made a sour face, "but Senator Palpatine here took pity on me and offered to let me come stay on Coruscant instead. I must say that I'm very glad of it, I've heard such primitive things about Tatooine."

"You are lucky to have a benefactor such as the Senator," Obiwan said.

"Yes, I think so," she smiled at Palpatine. It was genuine - Maul was right, he could be generous when he wanted to. She didn't think about the other times, hoping she could keep him pleased enough never to have to endure any type of discipline from him.

"So what do you think of Coruscant so far?" Qui Gon asked.

Selera actually told the truth on this one. "It is the most beautiful place I've ever seen," she replied. "But I've never seen so many people before in my life."

Selera kept her hands close to her body so as not to touch either of them. They continued to be pleasant and did indeed join them for lunch. At the end of their meal, Qui Gon wiped his mouth and looked at Selera.

"Since you are going to be on Coruscant for a month," Qui Gon began, "our people have been wondering if your schedule would permit being escorted to some of the sites on the planet and some near by star systems?"

She felt a foot press on hers from across the table: it was Palpatine.

"Well, I really just arrived here. Actually the Senator has scheduled my time here, so I'm not really sure," she deferred to him, not knowing what he wanted in the matter.

"I'm sure we could arrange something, My Dear," Palpatine said. "I only have you busy because I didn't want you wasting away in the apartment with nothing to do. Coruscant is such a lovely planet, there is much to see. If I could get someone trustworthy to take you around for a day or two, I'm sure you'd enjoy it much more than being ushered around by my assistants."

Selera smiled, "Yes, I think I would like that," she answered. "What time frame did your people have in mind?"

"Well, truth be told, Lady Selera, I volunteered," Obiwan finally broke in. "I, too, have some free time and my Master didn't want me to just sit idle with nothing to do and he thought that it would be a good diversion for me to make myself useful to you and the Senator."

"I think that is a splendid idea, Selera," Palpatine initiated. He had that we might get you married off this trip yet look.

Selera returned an exasperated look and replied to the Padawan, "Yes, what is your schedule like?"

"My free time begins late tomorrow morning, if that is convenient with you?" he asked. He seemed almost as anxious as she was to get alone.

"That would be fine," and she nodded.

"I'm not exactly sure of the protocol in this matter: where would be meet?" Obiwan asked the other three.

"Please feel free to call on Selera at my private offices." He looked to Selera, "She's been having trouble making her appointments on time, but I'll see she's there."

Selera sighed. "I will be there on time."

"I'm afraid to rush our meal, but we must be going," Qui Gon placed his napkin next to his plate. "Obiwan must finish some training before I will let him go tomorrow."

Palpatine's foot, that was still on hers, pressed even harder. "Have a good afternoon, and we will see you tomorrow," he said. Selera didn't know why Palpatine was making the gesture until Qui Gon placed his hand on her shoulder.

"May the Force be with you and you family," he said. Obiwan echoed the statement, but did not touch her.

"Thank you," Selera answered and watched the two men go. She realized that had the Senator not been in close contact with her while Qui Gon touched her, he would have very likely discovered her little secret - their little secret.

"How did you know he would do that?" she asked, when they were finally gone.

"I sensed that he was going to do it, are you done?" he asked. He was pensive.

He quickly walked her out of the restaurant and to her waiting shuttle, "You are to go to your appointment this afternoon and return to the apartment. Wait for me there." He was succinct in his instructions and closed the door to send her on her way.

After her gown appointment, she did as she was told and returned to the apartment. The assistant who had been following her around was going to stay with her, but Selera sent her back to the Senator's office, where she could be more help. Selera said she was tired and was going to take a nap.

Once she was alone, Maul stepped out of the shadows.

Selera smiled. "Where have you been?" she asked as she collapsed on the sofa and stretched.

"Taking care of my master's business, and you?" he asked as he tugged off his gloves. Apparently he had also just arrived.

"Doing the things a good niece does when on vacation on Coruscant," she answered.

"Hanging out with the local riffraff?" Apparently he was aware of their lunch with the Jedi.

"Are you jealous?" she asked, smiling coyly. "You may have reason to be - I certainly do want that young Padawan," she teased.

He just smiled in response. "Do you know what I plan on doing to that Padawan if you ever get your hands on him?" He moved around to the back of the sofa that she was lounging in.

"No, what?" she craned her neck to see him. It could be a joke, but with Maul, she wasn't entirely sure.

He leaned over and ran his hands from her shoulders, down over her breasts and back up again. He rested them on her shoulders and gripped her tightly. "I'm going to hang him up by his heels and torture him until he admits the night sky is yellow." He stood back up and quickly removed his cloak and threw it over the back of the sofa. He was clearly jealous, very jealous.

"You wouldn't?" she exclaimed.

"Why wouldn't I?" the smile left his face.

"Even if Sidious asks me to?"

"I will let you do our master's bidding," he responded, "and then I will hang the Padawan by his heels and torture him."

She could not conceal her shock. "What if he asks me to bed other men?"

"I will do the same to them." He moved around the couch, sat down and removed his boots.

"Even if Sidious will not let you?"

Maul let out a laugh at this, "Not torture and kill a Jedi? You underestimate your master."

"Well, perhaps Lord Sidious needs them for something...." she continued, playing devil's advocate.

"Then I will wait until my master is finished with them and I will exact my revenge," he answered with all due seriousness.

Selera looked at him. "And what if Sidious rapes me again?"

"Because he is my master, I cannot prevent him from taking his pleasure. However, he is aware of my claim upon you," he looked down momentarily and then brought his head up and stared hard into her eyes: "But no man, especially no Jedi, will touch you without answering to me."

Selera looked away. Maul stood up and took her by the chin, forcing her to look at him.

"I found you, you are mine. My Master has even admitted so much to me." His eyes looked right through her.

Selera wrenched her face from his grasp, stood up and walked away from him. She wanted to make sure some furniture was between them.

"So, is that all I am to you? Property?" she said quietly as she turned to face him. She was angry. She had thought their relationship was mutual. Had she wanted a relationship where she was nothing more that chattel, then she could have stayed on her own planet. She thought she was there by choice.

Maul moved slowly around the chair she had been careful to make sure was there. Selera backed away still; she felt much as she had when they first met: scared and confused and unsure of why she was there.

But Maul moved toward her without being threatening and grasped her shoulders. He caressed her neck and touched her forehead. He ran his fingers through her hair.

"You are as much a slave to me, as I am to my Master," he answered quietly. "And, yes, you are here by choice, just as I am. The further down this path you go, the more you will understand."

He placed his mouth over hers. She resisted, but he held fasted, drawing her tongue into his mouth. As much as she didn't want to, she could feel her body respond to him.

When he release her, she looked in his eyes. "What sort of mood is this? What is going on?" she asked.

He just gave her a dark stare as he stood thinking.

"Why do you want that young Jedi apprentice?" he asked suddenly.

"Well, I suppose because if I must have one of them, I may as well make it a pleasant experience," she answered. "You disapprove. I suppose you would rather I chose that Jedi Master Qui Gon Jinn, eh?"

"Yes, it would probably be more productive." Then he smiled. "I honestly doubt that Jedi Knight has been with a woman in years. I would like to see you seduce him." He gave a wry smile.

"Well, Palpatine seems satisfied with my choice," she answered, pulling away from him. "At least he's not said anything about it. Besides, you were the one that suggested something to this effect long ago."

"Well, that will change, My Dear, that's what I'm here to do." It was Palpatine.

"Master," Maul said, turning from Selera and bowing his head to the senior Sith.

"My Lord," Selera imitated.

He removed his outer clothing to get comfortable. "Come sit down, Selera."

She did as he requested.

"I realize you are attracted to this young man, but you must not touch him until after the cotillion, you understand?"

"Yes, My Lord," she answered. "My Lord?"

"Yes Selera?"

"Exactly what information do you wish me to get from this man?" she asked.

"Nothing in particular. It's mostly a test, you see," Palpatine began. "I want you to bring him back here and do what you do to men."

"But won't he tell his masters what I can do?" she asked.

Palpatine smiled kindly, "That is a risk I'm willing to take." She wasn't sure she understood. She knew the Obiwan was very likely going to tell the Jedi High Council about her and then she will have to skulk in the shadows much like Maul.

"You are a very smart girl, Selera, I'm sure you will think of something to ensure he does not want to tell the Jedi Council," Palpatine encouraged. The look in his eye was that she had better come up with something or it was her neck. Or more likely, Obiwan's."

"Yes, My Lord, I may have something in mind," she answered quickly.

"Good girl," he said, patting her on her leg.

"Now, Lord Maul, I have need of you," Palpatine stood and faced his apprentice. "I have another mission for you to get started on."

The two men walked into the next room as Palpatine talked. Selera did not pay any attention to the details of his mission. She sat and thought about Maul's claim upon her. The more she thought about it, the more she disliked the thought of it, no matter how much she might like him.

She deliberately cluttered her mind with thoughts of the cotillion and how she would seduced the young Jedi. Behind those thoughts she considered her options.

Yes, she was there voluntarily. But she did not see any reason that she was obligated to stay. The thought of leaving Maul caused her distress as she thought of all they had gone through together and how unusual he was. He rescued her from her dreary life on that small, out-o-the-way planet and opened up her mind to such amazing things. But his soul was the color of the night sky and she detested his master, no matter how generous he could be.

But how could she protect herself? She sighed heavily.

"Selera, seducing a Jedi is no different than seducing any other man. They have the same weaknesses, the same desires," Palpatine interrupted her reverie and she jumped. "And as lovely as you are, My Dear, he will not willingly resist your charms."

Selera smiled, embarrassed that her thoughts of the Jedi were so distracting.

"I'm sure," she answered. He placed a reassuring hand on her shoulder and managed to pull a few visions through her mind. She gasped at the suddenness of it.

Palpatine smiled. "Remarkable."

She lowered her eyes and felt a momentary pain of regret at leaving her simple life for one that was so much more intricately complicated.

"Do not be disheartened, My Child," he said. She looked at him and saw something that looked almost like sympathy.

"No, My Lord," she accepted it as a command.

That night she dreamed of her home and many of the people she knew there. She found herself struggling to talk to them, but they could not see her and it distressed her immensely. She woke sobbing into her pillow.

A light touch on her brow made her stop and look up: it was Maul. He stood over her momentarily before removing his clothes and crawling under the sheets with her. He stroked her face and wiped the tears from her face.

"What does not kill you, makes you strong," he whispered into her ear. She wasn't quite sure why he said it, but then he continued. "Go home, Selera. Go home..." And he drew the energy through her and she followed it home.

Palpatine woke Selera before he left for the Senate.

"My assistants will be here shortly to prepare you for meeting the young Padawan," he informed as he put on his robes of state. "You will remember what we discussed?"

She nodded, "Yes, My Lord." She yawned and rubbed her eyes.

Palpatine's assistants had Selera dressed and coifed before whisking her off to Palpatine's offices. When she arrived, Qui Gon and Obiwan were speaking with the Senator.

"There she is," Palpatine stretched out his hand. She took it and he kissed her on the cheek. "Sleep well?"

"Yes, I did," Selera blushed furiously before the Jedi. She looked at Obiwan and she thought she saw him blush as well. He certainly had high color in his cheeks for some reason.

"We are terribly early, I'm afraid," Qui Gon apologized.

"That's not a problem, I'm ready to be gone," Selera answered.

"Unfortunately, my schedule does not allow me to go with you," Qui Gon replied. "I hope you are not too disappointed that I must leave you in my apprentice's capable hands for the day. Don't let him drag you to too many boring sites," he said in jest.

"It certainly couldn't be any worse than hanging around the Senate all day," Selera responded.

"Don't be too late, My Dear," Palpatine responded over his shoulder as he returned to his chambers.

An exchange took place between the Padawan and his master, but not a word was said.

"Shall we be going, then?" Obiwan said as he gestured to the exit.

When they had finally sequestered themselves from the prying eyes of Palpatine and Qui Gon, there was an uncomfortable silence. They were taking a transport somewhere, however, Selera didn't know where they were going.

"We are going to the Crystal Gardens and then I thought we'd visit one of our moons," he said, as if reading her mind. He probably was, she thought in the back of her mind.

Selera smiled pleasantly, "I was just wondering what we would be doing today."

"I know," he said, but did not offer any other indication that he had actually done so.

She tested again by wondering about the young man, where he came from, how old he was when he became an apprentice to Qui Gon. Did he like being trained to be a Jedi?

He finally laughed, "You'll have to slow down a bit, Selera, or I'll never be able to answer all your questions."

"You are reading my mind," she accused.

"Well, begging your pardon, Selera, but it's rather difficult not to. Your mind is almost as loud as if you had spoken the questions."

"Oh," she managed a blush, "I've been told that before by...a Jedi," she answered. "I'm a little uncomfortable around Jedi for that reason, you understand. It's difficult to keep secrets that way."

Obiwan laughed, "So I noticed."

Selera feigned extreme embarrassment, as she remembered the rather forward thoughts she'd been throwing at him since she met him.

"Yes, I heard those as well," he answered.

"This is terribly embarrassing, I'm very sorry," she responded.

"Don't be, I'm quite flattered that such a refined young lady as yourself would find a Jedi apprentice attractive. To be honest, I find you to be a lovely and interesting person," he offered. "But most young ladies are not impressed by the apprentice, usually only by the true knights and masters."

Selera smiled. "I don't see why not," she began, "you must be approaching the end of your training, are you not?"

He nodded. "Yes. The next couple of years will see my final training. It is up to the council to decide when I am ready to advance to Jedi Knight."

"I'm sure you will make a fine Jedi Knight," she answered. "Your master seems a little hesitant to let you escort me," she continued, "What possessed him to let you escort me alone?"

"It, er, took some council persuasion, but they thought it was best," he began, "you are, after all, the 'niece' of a diplomat that has offered much support to the Jedi Council. Master Yoda thought to return the favor."

Selera raised an eyebrow cocked her head. "By ensuring that the girl is properly...entertained?" She did not attempt to hide her meaning in her thoughts. Neither did she hide the brief thought of their naked bodies entwined.

He blinked. She just smiled and turned away to watch the view go past the window.

Their day passed quickly, and Obiwan was knowledgeable about everything she saw, he answered all of her questions. During this time, she flirted coyly, and she found he returned the favor in kind. Several times during the day he tried to touch her, but she withdrew casually, turning it into a flirting game.

"You are a tease," he said finally on their trip back to Coruscant from the moon.

"I'm only a tease to men I like," she answered. "And to be honest, Obiwan, I like you a lot."

"Yes, I sense that," he answered as he tried to slide in close to her, but she coyly moved just out of reach.

"You are not allowed to touch me until...." she sat thinking, "until after the cotillion." And she imagined him and her locked in a deep and passionate kiss.

"An empty promise?" he asked.

"Not this time," she said and smiled.

"The Senator expects me to be a lady," she continued, "But he also thinks I should test the waters, so to speak."

Obiwan's eyebrows shot up in surprise, "He wants you to...." he wouldn't finish.

"Well, I'm not sure he has the same thing in mind that I do when I talk about 'seeing the world'," and she laughed. "But he thinks even a young lady of breeding should be prepared before she goes out into the world."

The young Jedi's mouth draped open. She laughed at him. "Come, take me back to my apartment so I can get ready for the Cotillion."

"Is that proper?" he asked.

"No less proper than you and I site seeing alone together. Besides, you are just dropping me off. It not as if I'm taking you to my bed....yet," she teased.

She knew she would never have talked this way in front of anyone but the young man, and she made sure he knew it. "Besides, I don't imagine we would be missed if we left the cotillion early," she said as she looked out the window. "Those old diplomats will be more absorbed in their politics and intrigue than they will the presence of two young people."

"Yes, that much is for certain," he answered, knowing how these functions went. He moved closer to her, but did not touch her. Selera could feel the warmth from his body.

"There is something very different about you, I must admit," he spoke quietly. "You have a definite presence, even though your every thought is readily available to me."

"What am I thinking now?" she asked.

"You're wondering if a young Padawan such as myself is allowed to have a love interest, am I correct?"

"And what is the answer to that?" she asked.

"Master Yoda seemed to think that you and I were a good match for one another," he answered. Selera pulled away from him and faced him, placing her hands on her hips.

"So you're only here because you were told to be here?" she asked.

"Actually, no, I'm here because I begged and pleaded with my own master to let me." He laughed. "Qui Gon was not in favor of anything of the sort. He thought you would....distract me."

Selera smiled pleasantly at that thought, "And, have I distracted you?"

"More than you will ever know."

"But you didn't answer my question," she said. "Are Padawans allowed to be....involved."

"One Master Jedi has 20 wives. I don't imagine they would begrudge an apprentice a single love interest," he replied. "In fact, I think Master Yoda was heartily in favor of such a union."

Selera was surprised to hear this. Was the Jedi High Council member trying to find a mate for her as he had jested upon her arrival?

"I don't know, but he was very impressed with you. And, believe me, I've never seen Master Yoda that impressed with anyone that wasn't a Jedi."

Selera knew Yoda must have an idea of her powers, or at least he suspected something. Perhaps he simply wanted to assure that she stayed close to the light side. But to Selera, light side, dark side, it was all the same. At least is seemed that way. She could not see much difference between the two.

"We're almost there," Obiwan said, snapping Selera out of her reverie.

"Hmm?"

"You were wondering how far it was to your home," he answered.

Selera had to think back to what she was thinking about to cover her other thoughts. "Oh, yes, I'm sorry. Thank you."

"Obiwan," Selera started, "Are you considering....getting involved with me because Master Yoda is impressed with me?"

"As highly I might consider Master Yoda's opinion, no," he said sitting back and getting a little more comfortable. "To be honest, the first time I saw you was when you arrived on Coruscant. I never thought I'd be able to get this close to you, let alone escorting you to the Cotillion."

"Have I disappointed you at all?" she asked.

He looked at her and shook his head. "Not at all! You're smart...witty...beautiful. I can honestly say I've never felt this way about a woman before. It's almost as if it were meant to be, as if the Force had drawn us together."

Selera admitted that they had much in common and talking to him was much easier than talking to Maul or Palpatine.

"I'm glad you think so," he answered. "Can I admit something to you?"

Selera nodded.

"Do you promise not to laugh?"

Selera nodded and smiled, not knowing what to expect.

"I dreamed about you for several weeks before your arrival here on Coruscant," he admitted. "When I finally saw you, it was if I had been struck by lightning."

Selera looked at him, not knowing what to think. She was definitely taken by the young man and his easy demeanor. So unlike Maul.

She didn't know why she did it, but she leaned forward, close to his face and said, "A vision of things to come." She stretched forward and kissed him gently. She felt the familiar draw of energy through her, but it was only momentary before she withdrew.

He was very surprised, she could tell. She was concerned that she broke her promise to Palpatine.

She reached forward to take his hand, but stopped short, knowing what would happen if she did.

"Please, Obiwan," she shook her head. "Please, don't tell anyone. I want to spend more time with you, but not in front of the Jedi Council."

"You knew." It was a statement.

"Now you understand why I don't touch people who are strong with the Force," she looked at him sadly.

"Please, Obiwan," she begged.

He smiled. "I won't tell anyone," he answered. "That's something you'll have to do yourself."

Selera smiled with relief.

"Here is your apartment," he said. "I look forward to our evening together, My Lady." He stood looking at her, "I will return one hour before the cotillion, to pick you up, I don't care what protocol I might be breaking."

Selera gave him a warm smile. "I'll be ready."

He opened the shuttle door and left her on the front step of Palpatine's apartment before sailing away.

Selera had become so good at clouding her mind, that she could do it selectively. She knew she would have to keep parts of her day from Palpatine. He would want to know just about everything.

When she entered the apartment, Palpatine stood pouring himself a drink.

"There you are," he said. "How was your day?"

She always thought it was so odd how he talked to her as if she were just another courtesan, but treated her as if he would snap her neck at any moment.

"I'd do it if I thought you'd betrayed me or my apprentice," he answered stiffly.

Selera smiled, bearing her teeth a little too much, "Yes, Uncle, everything is fine, we had a wonderful time. Thank you for asking."

Palpatine laughed, "You do have a rare sense of humor, My Dear." He brought her a small snifter of the same green liquor that she'd had before.

She looked at it dubiously. "What is this for?"

"A little insurance," he said.

She wasn't sure what he meant.

"Drink it up, it's just a little. Nothing to keep you down for the evening," he said. She didn't want to take it, knowing full well the intoxicating effects. Selera shrugged and threw back the entire shot. It made her shudder, but the warmth quickly spread to her limbs and she began to relax.

"Mmmm," she said, sitting down and laying her head back on the couch. She took a deep breath. "What are we doing tonight, My Lord?"

"You are going to please my apprentice," he answered, smoothing the hair back from her face.

"Oh, My Lord," she said teasing, "You didn't need to give me that green liquor to make me do that." She smiled and reached out, touching his face. "Perhaps you would like for me to please you, mmmmm?"

"As much as I might want to do that, I'm sure you realize that the shape I would leave you in would preclude you from going to the Cotillion," he whispered between nibbles on her ear. "My apprentice will have to do, My Dear."

"My Lord?" she asked, in a rather advanced state of intoxication. "What sort of insurance will having me sleep with Maul afford you?"

"It's a mental imprint," he continued to whisper, "when Obiwan sleeps with you, he will see you are hardly the good little girl you are portraying."

Selera laughed. "Oh, My Lord, he already knows I am far from being a good little girl." She cackled again, the liquor having taken it's toll. "I doubt we stay long at the cotillion for all that I have promised him. You were right, he is a man with all the common failings. I should have tried for his master, it might have been more of a challenge."

The next thing Selera knew, Maul was before her helping her up and carrying her into her room.

He used her hard and was relentless when she told him he was hurting her.

"What are you doing?" she asked as he pushed harder.

"I want him to see that you are a whore," he was angry.

The liquor loosed her tongue and she smiled, "Are you afraid I will enjoy myself too much with that young Padawan?"

He glowered at her and growled low as he continued his assault.

"He is fine and ready for my body," she said grinding her hips into his.

Maul drew back and raised his hand to strike, but Palpatine caught his hand before he could strike.

"We can't have that, now," he said as he released Maul's wrist. "She has a job to do. There will be plenty of time for that later." He eyed her as she lay flat on her back. Selera gritted her teeth and despised him.

"And you, my Dear," Palpatine said as he stroked her forehead, "Perhaps we shall spend some time together after all."

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