Fight or Flight

Arrival

I sleep for what feels like forever until I hear a knock at the door. Wincing slightly from the pain, I call out, "Who is it?"

"Shena, Master Shano. The council requests your presence soon." I pull myself out of bed and open the door to find a youngling.

"Greetings, Shena. Tell the council I will be there in a short while."

"Of course Master. May the Force be with you." Her shy voice causes a smile to appear on my face.

"And with you, young one." As soon as Shena leaves, I grab my clothes and head for the bathroom, grabbing a quick shower before dressing and heading out to the council chamber. Then I remember what I had told Obi-Wan a few nights prior. Or was it last night?

You slept for waaaaay too long. Ciren's voice floods into my mind, irritated in tone.

If you only knew the night I had a few nights ago...I shoot back at him, mentally rolling my eyes.

I saw that.

I hate you.

Anger leads to hate...

Hate leads to the dark side. Take a hint would you? I'm not in the mood to talk right now.

Fine. The communication shuts off and I head to Hangar 3. When I arrive, I see the ship and the Queen of Naboo on the landing platform. My brother is hanging off to the side, and I quickly send him a glance to tell him I'm fine. He nods.

Tell me later. I glance at him, startled. A smirk rests on his face. You forgot we have that link, didn't you?

What is wrong with me today? I internally groan and walk towards the ship. "Greetings, Queen Padme. I trust your journey was a safe one?"

"It was interesting." I smile at her.

"I'm sure it was. I trust these Jedi protected you?"

"Indeed they did. I am in debt to the Jedi council. I have met the other members of the council before, but not you."

"I am new to the council. Master Kiria Shano."

"A pleasure to meet you."

"And you, milady. I will send someone to escort you to your chambers immediately. Do not hesitate to ask for anything." I bow to her and begin to leave the platform when a chill passes over me. I turn to see a little boy. The one from my dreams...that 'chosen one.' I shake the feeling off and head down the maze of hallways, meeting up with Mace Windu, Yoda, and Luminara Unduli.

"Master Shano." Mace bows, and the other two follow suit.

"Masters." I bow in return. "I have just come from the platform where the Queen of Naboo has landed. I request permission to gather some guards to escort her and her handmaidens to her chambers."

"Of course. We must protect the Queen at all costs. She is vital to this Republic." Luminara says softly. I smile at her.

"Thank you. I will meet you in the council chambers shortly. I understand there is a young boy that we wish to discuss."

"How did you know?" Mace Windu says quickly.

"Forgotten, have you? Foreseer, Master Shano is."