Star Wars: Destiny's Choice

Chapter 4

(Own artwork above)

"I don't know what you're talking about," Seneca said, trying to keep her emotions in check.

"Relax, I'm friends with her," Valree said with a smirk. "She and I met during a performance where I had to help with extra security.

"Performance?" Jazzori asked.

Valree glanced at the two, realizing they were unaware. "You didn't know, did you?" Seneca looked at Valree impatiently. "Seneca, Rebekath survived Order 66."

Seneca's eyes widened. "What?!"

"She survived and joined a performing artist act. That's why we're here," Valree explained.

"Senator, I think we need to excuse ourselves," Jazzori said as she guided Bail Organa to another area of the palace.

"Explain everything," Seneca demanded.

"We believe she is in danger," interjected Jetto Fett.

"Danger? She's a Jedi, she's already in danger," Seneca replied.

"Yes, you're right. I was on a job when Jetto and I were after the same target, Boba Fett. We found his list... a list of people wanted, captured dead or alive. Beka is on the list," Valree said, projecting an image of Beka on the holoprojector.

"That's just one of the Ribbon Singers. Beka went missing three years ago."

"They're the same person. She decided to stay hidden to evade the Empire. Unfortunately, being a good performer draws attention. You see who hired Boba Fett... someone named Tarkin."

"Tarkin, as in Wilhuff Tarkin?" Seneca asked with concern.

"Beka is a dear friend to me. Not to mention, if the Empire gets to her, who knows what they'll do."

"But how did they know she's a Jedi if she's been disguised as a lowly performer?"

"'Lowly' is not a word I would use. She is very famous. But I have a hunch her little traveling buddies sold her out. Beka talked highly of you, and the rumors were true that you were still alive. I knew I had to find you," Valree said. "Boba Fett won't go after a Jedi alone."

"But how did you find me?"

"Rumors circulate about how one of the best Jedi pilots goes missing, but suddenly a captain who's winning every charity event pops up out of nowhere. It doesn't take a scientist to see the connection."

"Then why is he here?" Seneca pointed to Jetto.

Jetto's voice was tinged with a hint of bitterness as he spoke. His eyes, normally sharp and focused, softened with memories clouded by regret. "Boba Fett," he repeated, as if testing the weight of the name on his tongue. "He's not just a bounty hunter to me. He's the reason I'm like this." Jetto gestured to his whole body, "I'm a broken experiment, instead of learning how to fix me, he left me to die. I've been tracking him, waiting for the perfect moment to settle the score," Jetto continued, his voice low and filled with determination. "But now, our paths have crossed again, and this time, I won't let him slip through my fingers." There was a steely resolve in Jetto's tone, of determination.

Seneca and Valree exchanged a knowing glance, recognizing the pain behind Jetto's words. It was clear that there was a history between them, one marked by betrayal and revenge.

As they prepared to embark on their mission to find Beka, it was evident that Jetto's personal vendetta against Boba Fett would add another layer of tension to their already perilous journey.

Valree glanced at Seneca, her expression thoughtful. "Finding Beka won't be easy," she admitted, her voice tinged with concern. "But we have a starting point." She activated a holographic display, showing a map of the Pabu system. "Beka's tour dates and locations are posted on the holonews. Her next scheduled stop is on Pabu."

Seneca studied the holographic display, her mind already racing with plans and possibilities. "If we can intercept her there, we might have a chance to get ahead of Tarkin hunting her," suggested, her voice firm with determination. Seneca nodded; her mind already focused on the task ahead. "Let's not waste any time," she said, her voice firm with resolve. "I need to help my old master."

As the three headed towards the ship, Jazzori trailed behind them and called out, "Seneca?"

"Jazzori," Seneca responded, her tone serious, "I have a personal matter to attend to."

"I know," Jazzori explained, her voice resolute. "I'm coming along and bringing help." Behind her stood two Dowutins. The Dowutins towered over her, their massive frames adorned with thick, tan leathery skin. Despite their imposing stature, their faces exuded a surprising warmth, softened by gentle eyes. Both remained clean-shaven, their identical features made them nearly indistinguishable. One brother wore a long, robe-like jacket, while the other went without, allowing people to distinguish between them. Despite their differing attire, their identical features made them unmistakably twins.

Valree started to inquire, "Who—"

"Friends who owe me," Jazzori cut her off, "Gruno and Gruna Thif, twins." She paused briefly before continuing, "Now, where are we going?"

"Pabu system," Seneca reiterated, her tone unwavering despite the added company.

As they boarded the ship, Seneca took a moment to glance around at her companions. She saw determination etched on their faces, a shared resolve to rescue her old friend and ally.

With a nod of assurance, Seneca led the way onto the ship, her steps purposeful as they embarked on their journey.

As they gathered at the entrance ramp of the ship, each member of the group brought their own sense of purpose and determination. Seneca led the way, her strides confident and resolute, followed closely by Valree, whose eyes flickered with a mix of concern and determination. Jazzori trailed behind, flanked by the towering figures of Gruno and Gruna Thif, their imposing presence a silent reminder of the allies they had at their disposal. Jetto Fett brought up the rear, his posture tense with anticipation as he prepared for the journey ahead. Together, they boarded the ship, the hum of its engines a comforting reminder of the unity and strength they found in each other.

Jazzori's gaze lingered on Jetto, curiosity evident in her expression. "And who is he?" she asked, her tone probing.

Seneca met Jazzori's gaze, her expression unreadable for a moment before she replied, "I'll explain on the way." With that, she gestured for everyone to take their seats, signaling the beginning of their journey to the Pabu system.