New Allies (Star Wars: The Next Generation, Book 4)

Chapter One

Unlikely Allies

In the Naboo cell blocks Maul pondered to himself what to do. He had blasted anyone that got close to his cell with the force, in order to let others know not to get close. He was thinking of an escape plan, as while he could break out right now, without knowing what he was up against he risked capture again, and in a much more secure cell. It was then that Rey walked up, and recognizing her as the one that freed him made him pause.

Rey: "Your name is Maul. Is that correct?"

(Maul remained silent staring at her).

Rey: "My name is Rey. There is no need to answer, I already know who you are. The Chancellor gave me access to Obi-Wan Kenobi's reports."

Maul: "Kenobi..."

Maul growled.

Rey: "Listen I know what happened to you, and I know you have no reason to trust us, but I believe we can help each other. We may not be on the same side, but we have the same enemies. I know you were betrayed, and I know just about every faction wants you dead, would you at least hear us out?"

Maul was silent for a moment glaring at her.

Maul: "Fine."

It was then that Chancellor Organa came in.

Organa: "Darth Maul is it?"

Maul: "Just Maul now."

Organa: "Okay Maul."

Maul: "Just get on with it."

There was a moment of silence between them before Organa answered.

Organa: "As Rey here mentioned you're not very popular in most if most if not all of the factions around the galaxy. That is why I have an offer for you. We will give you a full pardon of all the actions you've committed against the Republic if you will help fight against the factions we are war with. You will be compensated for your actions as well. Plus you know how Emperor Palpatine of the Empire thinks, so that could prove useful. What do you say?"

"I say you're a fool to resist the Dark Side" The Zabrak warrior snarled. "Can't you feel it? The Empires of old have returned, the Sith have rose again in every corner of the Galaxy. All of us, you, me, the Jedi, everyone, who stands in their way will die. They'll destroy us all, it's useless to resist the inevitable!"

"Perhaps..." Chancellor Organa admitted. "But is that any reason you shouldn't seek what revenge you can before the end?"

"I... shall consider it" Maul said, after several long minutes, meeting Bail's gaze directly.

"That is all I ask." The Chancellor said with a smile. "We shall see to your release as soon as we can. Good day."

Bail left the room, beckoning for Rey to follow him. Han Solo met them on the outside.

"So? How'd it go?" The Rebel General asked, falling in step with the other two.

"I don't trust him." Rey said quickly. "He's either mad, evil, or both. I could feel the dark and rage just dripping in every word he said."