Legacy of the Shadow of the Jedi | REMAKE |

28. The Pre-Naval

|| Location: Corusca Sector, Coruscant system , Coruscant||

|| Timeline: 33 BBY ||

The steady hum of the Coruscant skyline was a subtle yet constant presence as I entered the office of Supreme Chancellor Finis Valorum. The air was heavy with the weight of our recent battle on Yinchorr, and the gravity of the situation was evident in every step I took toward the Chancellor's ornate desk.

Valorum sat with an air of calm authority, his fingers lightly drumming on a stack of reports. His eyes, sharp and calculating, lifted to meet mine as I approached.

"Master Kodo," he greeted with a measured nod. "I trust you've come to discuss our next move against the Yinchorri."

I inclined my head respectfully. "Chancellor, the situation on Uhanayih is dire. We've located the high command, but our current forces lack the firepower necessary for a decisive strike. We need additional resources—specifically, I request the reactivation of an old Hammerhead-class cruiser under my command to lead our naval forces."

Valorum's gaze narrowed slightly. "A Hammerhead-class cruiser? That's a bold request. Those ships are relics, Master Kodo, and their reactivation would require significant resources."

"I understand the challenges," I replied, maintaining my calm demeanor. "But the Hammerhead's durability and firepower make it an ideal asset for this mission. It would bolster our fleet and provide the necessary support to ensure a successful engagement."

Valorum leaned back in his chair, his expression one of cautious consideration. "The Senate has been reluctant to approve further naval support. They barely agreed to the current deployment. Requesting a ship of that class might provoke resistance."

I could sense the political tension in his words, but the urgency of the mission outweighed any hesitation. "Chancellor, this mission is critical. The Yinchorri high command is well-fortified, and time is of the essence. A swift and decisive strike is necessary to prevent further escalation. The Hammerhead would give us the advantage we need."

Valorum's fingers paused in their rhythmic drumming. His eyes reflected the weight of the decision. "The political implications are significant. The Senate's support is fragile, and any misstep could have far-reaching consequences."

I stepped closer, my voice steady but firm. "Chancellor, we cannot afford to let this opportunity slip away. The Yinchorri have already inflicted severe losses. If we do not act now, the conflict could spiral out of control. The Hammerhead is more than just a military asset; it's a strategic necessity."

The room fell silent as Valorum considered my words. His gaze drifted to the star maps on his holo-terminal, the weight of his responsibilities evident in his expression.

After what felt like an eternity, he sighed, the sound carrying the weight of reluctant acceptance. "Very well, Master Kodo. I will authorise the reactivation of the Hammerhead-class cruiser and your command of the Republic naval forces. But be aware—this decision comes with significant risks. We must tread carefully."

Relief washed over me, though I maintained my composed exterior. "Thank you, Chancellor. I assure you, we will execute this mission with the utmost precision and responsibility."

As I exited Valorum's office, the urgency of the situation still hung heavy, but there was a new sense of purpose. The Hammerhead would be the key to our success, yet the true test would be in how we utilized it against the Yinchorri. The political landscape, the morale of our forces, and the need to end this conflict swiftly would all shape the battles to come. My thoughts were already shifting to the next steps, the coordination required, and the preparations needed to ensure victory on Uhanayih.