Alters: A Star Wars AU

Chapter 2 - The Last Inquisitor

"My lord..." Vader almost muttered, his deep voice resonating with a hint of reluctance as he turned towards the Emperor's holographic figure. The room was dimly lit, the blue glow of the hologram casting eerie shadows across the cold metal walls of the chamber. Once the two agents were dismissed, the Sith Lord allowed himself to voice his doubts. "Are we certain about employing that agent? She was never properly qualified after her training with the Grand Inquisitor."

The Emperor's hooded figure remained still, his yellow eyes gleaming with calculated intent from beneath the shadows of his cloak. His silence hung in the air for a moment, making Vader uncertain if he had overstepped his bounds by questioning his master's decision.

"Oh, Aardan?" The Emperor's voice was soft, almost dismissive, yet it carried the weight of authority that made even the Dark Lord of the Sith second-guess his words.

Vader slightly bowed his head, a gesture of respect and acknowledgment, yet his unease was palpable. He hesitated before giving his answer, as if weighing the consequences of speaking further. "Yes, my lord."

The Emperor's thin, cracked lips twisted into a knowing smile. "She's never been qualified because of your strong opposition, it is true, Lord Vader. You deemed her unpredictable, a danger to the mission, and I recall how fervently you spoke against her inclusion in the ranks of the Inquisitors." His tone was measured, almost indifferent, but the undercurrent of admonishment was unmistakable. "But she is skilled enough to succeed in this mission."

Vader's mechanical breathing filled the room as he absorbed his master's words. It was unlike the Emperor to be so insistent on a single agent, especially one who had not fully completed her training under the Grand Inquisitor. Yet, the Emperor's confidence in Astrid Aardan was undeniable.

"You're not the only one who analysed her behaviour while she served the Jedi Order," the Emperor continued, his voice becoming more pointed. "I have observed her as well, in ways even you cannot imagine."

Aardan's history was tumultuous, to say the least. An unpredictable, impulsive, ambitious Jedi, she had been expelled from the temple years before the fall of the Order. Her departure was not without controversy; she had been accused of recklessness, of letting her emotions drive her decisions in ways that were unbecoming of a Jedi Knight. But in those very traits lay her potential. What the Jedi saw as flaws, the Emperor saw as strengths-qualities that, when properly harnessed, could be turned to the Dark Side.

With her great agility, excellent fighting skills, and sharp combat intelligence, Astrid Aardan was a force to be reckoned with. Her expulsion from the Jedi had only deepened her resolve, filling her with a desire to prove herself, to strike out on her own path-a path that had ultimately led her to the Emperor.

Vader remained silent, though his mind raced with possibilities and concerns. He had seen Astrid Aardan in action during her time with the Jedi. She was undeniably talented, but she was also a wild card-a trait that had made him wary of her in the first place. Her methods were unorthodox, and she often acted on instinct rather than calculated planning. Yet, the Emperor was convinced of her potential, and it was not Vader's place to question the will of his master, even if his instincts urged caution.

The Emperor, sensing Vader's lingering doubts, offered one final assurance. "Trust in the Dark Side, Lord Vader. It will guide her, as it guides us all."

Vader bowed his head once more, accepting the Emperor's words. "As you wish, my master," he intoned, his voice resolute despite the turmoil within.

As the hologram flickered and disappeared, Vader was left alone with his thoughts. He knew that Astrid Aardan was more than just a skilled fighter; she was a symbol of the Emperor's confidence in the future of the Empire. And if she succeeded, she would not only prove her worth but also solidify her place as a key player in the Emperor's grand design.