Legacy of the Shadow of the Jedi | REMAKE |

32. A Dark Gift

|| Location: Chommell sector, Naboo system , Naboo||

|| Timeline: 32 BBY ||

The aftermath of the battle on Naboo was like a dream. The once chaotic and war-torn plains of Theed were now replaced with a sense of calm and unity as the Gungan and Naboo forces stood side by side, celebrating their hard-won victory. I watched the celebrations from a distance, my thoughts turning inward. The battle had been fierce, and while we had achieved victory, the cost weighed heavily on my shoulders.

As I stood there, lost in thought, I felt a presence approach—steady and composed. Obi-Wan, with Anakin by his side, nodded to me. His face carried the weight of loss, having just said goodbye to Qui-Gon Jinn. Yet, there was also a hint of pride, both in himself and the young boy he had taken under his wing.

"Master Kodo," Obi-Wan began, "I wanted to thank you for your help. I don't think we could have managed without your intervention."

I looked at him, my mind racing through the events that had transpired. The Lok Revenant had been crucial in the battle, their fleet and tactics turning the tide. But it wasn't the Jedi way to ally with such groups. I knew I had crossed a line—one that the Council would not overlook.

"The battle was won, Obi-Wan, but the path I took to get here... it wasn't the one the Council would have sanctioned," I replied, my voice carrying the weight of the decision I had made.

Before Obi-Wan could respond, the sound of approaching footsteps caught our attention. Turning, we saw Supreme Chancellor Palpatine flanked by several members of the Jedi High Council, including Yoda and Mace Windu. Palpatine's expression was one of satisfaction, a politician basking in the glow of a victory he had engineered from the shadows. He moved with purpose, his eyes gleaming as he approached Obi-Wan and Anakin.

"Master Kenobi, young Skywalker," Palpatine began, his voice smooth and calculated. "You have both displayed remarkable bravery. Your actions will not go unnoticed. I will watch your career with great interest, Anakin."

Anakin's eyes widened, a mixture of pride and awe filling them. He was still so young, so full of hope. I wondered if he knew the burden that Palpatine's interest would place upon him.

Then Palpatine turned to me, and the warmth in his expression remained, though it was tinged with something else—something that felt almost like recognition.

"And Master Kodo," Palpatine continued, "your efforts were nothing short of extraordinary. Without your intervention, Naboo would have faced a far darker fate. The Republic owes you a great debt, and I will ensure that your bravery is rewarded."

His words were honeyed, meant to soothe and placate, but I knew the Council would not see it that way. I could feel the eyes of the Council members on me—some filled with disappointment, others with disapproval.

"Thank you, Chancellor," I said, inclining my head. But the gratitude in my voice was hollow. I could feel the storm brewing behind me, the Council's judgment waiting in the wings.

As Palpatine stepped away, Yoda's gaze locked onto mine. The diminutive Grand Master's expression was inscrutable, but I could sense the gravity of what was to come.

"Mmm, Master Kodo," Yoda said, his voice soft but firm. "Conferred with the Council, you did not, before leading the Lok Revenant. Disturbed, we are, by your actions."

Mace Windu stepped forward, his tone more direct, as was his way. "Your actions were illegal, Kodo. Forming alliances with pirates and militias—those decisions are not within the purview of a Jedi Master. You went against the Senate's wishes and the Council's guidance."