The Key to the Jedi Cities

Chapter 20- Sam's Ceremony, part 2

Surprised, Sam braced herself for a modest ceremony. After all, Jedi Knights weren't known for royal pomp. Yet, the Jedi Council had a different vision. While steeped in the traditions of the Ancient Jedi, they understood the 21st century. This was a global spectacle. With a population that adored her, the Council knew Earth wouldn't settle for anything less than a grand coronation for their Empress, the Jedi Master herself.

The ceremony wasn't in the familiar World Beneath, but on the sun-drenched surface of Dinotopia – in a bygone era. This, the Jedi Council had explained, was where it all began. The Dinotopians of 2009 needed to glimpse their past firsthand, to understand the reasons for their exodus and the gift of intertemporal travel.

Fueled by Nomi, Brandon, and Sam's tales of the Jedi Knights, Dinotopians who'd traversed the Stargate to Earth's past were consumed by a historical fervor. They craved a deeper understanding of not only Earth's past but also how it shaped the Jedi legacy and, by extension, Dinotopia itself. With the Stargate's barriers removed, Dinotopians were finally free to embrace their full potential, living a life unbound by limitations—a life truly lived.

As she was getting ready to start with her part of the ceremony, she was standing near JN-620. "I thank you for being at my side. I know you don't know all we have been through together, but I want you to know that you have made a giant difference in my life."

"I know most, or at least what Oriana has told me. Master Tumok has told me some of it earlier."

"It will honor me to talk to you about it more if you like."

"I would like for you to tell me about your own experiences in everything you can tell me. I believe that your life should be preserved."

She smiled, "I remember you telling me when you got me to talk to you about what I have been through as a slave in a galaxy far, far, away. It will honor me for you to do that for me."

Just then the two of them got the message the event was about to start. When she walked down the aisle to the throne, they would crown her as the new Empress of the Jedi Knights, JN-620 followed right behind her. He would be her royal interpreter.

A cacophony of languages filled the air during the ceremony. Representatives from across the galaxy, far, far away, and even Earth itself brought their unique tongues. To accommodate this diversity, everyone relied on electronic translators for most of the event. JN-620, however, remained largely silent. While its capabilities were impressive, translating every language spoken on Earth, let alone those from distant galaxies, would have extended the ceremony indefinitely. Thankfully, its primary function became clear whenever conversations shifted towards Her Majesty.

Throned above the spectacle, Sam reveled in the ceremony's unfolding. It was a tapestry woven from echoes of past coronations — a vibrant blend that resonated deeply with her. Yet, more than just tradition unfolded before her. Unfamiliar faces, beaming from across the globe, filled viewing screens, their participation a testament to the ceremony's groundbreaking reach. Every moment was a cherished piece of this historic event.

As the ceremony neared its climax, Barbara and Cassandra glided to Sam's side, flanking their Empress with unwavering loyalty. JN-620 stood discreetly behind Cassandra, its presence a silent testament to the intergalactic nature of this event. Finally, Ituor emerged, bearing a magnificent crown aloft. With slow, deliberate steps, he approached Her Majesty, the weight of history palpable in the air. Then, with a flourish, he raised the crown, ready to bestow it upon the newly christened Empress.

"Samantha O'Neill, do you pledge to faithfully execute the duties of the Empress of the Jedi Knights and to govern with the highest regard for all those who fall within your purview?"