THE LAST DAYS
By Kathryn Olsen

"Leia, a word?"

Senator Princess Leia Organa, the petite eighteen-year-old Senator of Alderaan, turned
to see Senator Mon Mothma of Chandrila approaching from the Southeast wing of the Senate complex.

"Certainly, Senator," she said respectfully, bowing slightly.

The older woman fell in step with her and glanced over her shoulder. "You did well in
today's session," she commented. "I'm sure your persuasive abilities will sway the votes of
several sovereignties into opposition of the Tarkin Resolution."

Leia winced. "We do what we must, Senator. I do not believe that Grand Moff Tarkin's
efforts to penalize all refugee colonies for the actions of a few insurgents."

"Undoubtedly," Mon Mothma said quietly. "But the Imperial policy of zero tolerance is
a firmly established principle. The campaign will be a difficult one."

"True," Leia agreed sourly. "But then, when have any Senate matters been anything but
difficult?"

"Not in my lifetime." She glanced over. "When do you leave for Alderaan?"

"Tonight."

They entered the South wing to find Winter, Leia's personal aide, waiting. Winter bowed
graciously to Mon Mothma, then stepped aside to allow them both passage into the older Senator's
office.

Mon Mothma crossed to her desk and gestured them to chairs. Ateral, her attaché, entered.
"Senator, you have several messages. Governor Ephod wishes you to contact him with regards to
the upcoming..."

She waved a hand. "Later, Ter. Anything from our sight-seeing friends?"

Ter's mouth twitched at the coded inquiry about the reconnaissance missions. "Just
one."

Mon Mothma extended a hand and Ter handed her a data card. She turned away to read
its contents. Leia watched as her posture stiffened slightly, but then her shoulders slumped
and her head bowed. For a long moment, there was only silence in the office.

Then Mon Mothma's head came up and her shoulders straightened as she regained her composure.
She did not turn, only set the data card on the windowsill. "Thank you, Ateral," she said in
a quiet, almost hoarse voice. "That will be everything for now. You may retire
for the day."

The attaché bowed. "Thank you, Senator."

The door closed and Mon Mothma let out an intensely weary sigh. She turned to Leia
and the young woman could see the faint glimmer of tears in her eyes.

"This is from Commander Cracken of Alliance Intelligence," she said softly. "He just
got word from Anchoron that one of your father's operatives..."

"Which?"

Mon Mothma nodded slightly. "Aach. The source is reliable."

Leia nodded. Aach was one of her father's most highly valuable intelligence operatives.
Any information from him was either absolutely reliable or manipulated by outside sources.

"So, he was contacted by an unknown source three days ago. We've found Tarkin's secret
project."

Leia caught her breath and her brow furrowed. "Where?"

"Its construction facility is at Horuz, but it will be moving out within weeks." She
frowned. "It's a superweapon with the destructive capability to obliterate an entire planet.
They call it the Death Star."

Leia stiffened. "This could spell disaster for the Alliance as well as the rest of the
Galaxy. In the hands of someone like Tarkin..."

"Undoubtedly."

Leia's mind spun and she gripped the armrests of her chair as her throat tightened.
"Does Garm know?"

The tears spilled over onto the older woman's cheeks. "General Bel Iblis and his family
were at an assemblage in the Treitamma Political Center when it was destroyed. They are all
dead."

Leia buried her face in her hands and her shoulders hunched forward, trembling slightly
with restrained anguish. "Not Garm," she whispered. "Are they sure?"

Mon Mothma nodded solemnly. "Given his location, there is no possible way he could
have escaped."

Leia brought the heels of her hands to her eyes and brushed away the tears. "All right,"
she said softly. "What are we doing about it?"

"Sending another operative to Darknell."

Leia arched an eyebrow. "Darknell?"

"Much like Tatooine, without the heat," Mon Mothma stated. "It's mostly a servicing
stop for smugglers, pilots, commercial fleets, and other types. The courier who contacted Aach
requested that they meet there."

Leia straightened, the choice of words sparking something in her instincts. "Courier,"
she repeated. "They've got the plans of the Death Star?"

"Or so the courier claims." Mon Mothma sank into a chair. "Either way, we'll know
by the time you arrive at Alderaan."

Leia nodded. "If there is anything I can do to forward the cause, please let me know."

"I'll relay that to your father," Mon Mothma said with a faint smile. "I'm entrusting
him to pull this operation off. He has the best intelligence networks in the entire Alliance."

Leia smiled slightly. "That he does." She buried her chin in her chest. "I must be
frank, Mon. There is little doubt that I will not be returning for the next Senatorial term.
My father believes it is becoming too dangerous and there is little more I can do here. I will
be making the war against the Empire my first priority."

Mon Mothma nodded. "We could use leaders like you. This war will not be a unified
front, a series of decisive strike. If we are to win this, we must rely on the strength of
each person and their personal commitment to the restoration of justice. You are a strong-
willed young woman of high morals and firm ideals. You are the kind of person we must become
to succeed in this war."

"Thank you, Mon."

The other woman stood and crossed to embrace Leia as she rose. "Have a safe trip,
Senator Organa."
* * *
Leia sank into the chair behind her desk with a deep sigh and slipped off her low shoes.
"Winter?"

"Here, Your Highness."

Leia rubbed her eyes wearily. "Give me the news."

"You have a message from your father, wishing you a safe trip home, and a message from
the Emperor's staff. He wants to meet with you before you leave."

Leia shot to her feet. "*What?*"

"In ten minutes at the Palace. Something to do with today's debate, apparently."

Leia slipped back into her shoes and gathered her things. "Contact Captain Antilles
to tell him that we've been delayed briefly. We'll have to go straight from the Palace to East
port."

Winter followed her out, speaking quietly into the commlink. Leia hurried to the personal
vehicles hangar, where a small speeder was waiting for them. The driver helped them in, then
took off for the Palace.

Ten minutes later, they were admitted into the private office of the Emperor. Leia
bowed deeply with feigned respect. "You wished to see me, Your Majesty."

"Yes."

Palpatine inhaled deeply as if breathing in her emotions through the Force, his eyes
narrowing slightly. "You are afraid," he observed.

*What woman would not fear the most powerful force of evil in the Galaxy?* Leia pressed
her lips together, choosing her words carefully. "I fear only having offended you and my potential
to fail in whatever you would wish of me."

"Fitting words from Alderaan's crown-in-waiting," Palpatine said with a touch of a smirk.
"I've heard tell of your persuasive efforts in the Senate chambers over the last few days."

"Only trying to preserve justice, Your Majesty."

He waved a hand. "I cannot fault you for the strength of your convictions or the logic
of your arguments, Princess Leia. You have not been summoned here for a reprimand."

She relaxed slightly. "What would His Majesty wish of me," she asked softly.

"A council of Senators is being formed for the organization and control of the refugee
camps within the boundaries of the Empire. They would see that justice is done and order is
maintained, as well as drafting any legislation, such as the Tarkin Resolution that might arise
in regards to the refugee populations. Given your passion on that particular matter and your
experience with the Caamasi refugees on Alderaan, I would like to appoint you to that Council."

Leia bowed once more. "Thank you for your faith and consideration, Your Majesty."

"Then you accept?"

"Yes, Your Majesty."

"Good," he said. "I will alert Senator Mekhen of your decision since he will be the
High Councilor of that body." He folded his hands. "You are dismissed. Safe passage to Alderaan."

"Thank you, Your Majesty."

She bowed a final time, then turned and left the office, nearly trembling with relief.
Winter smiled slightly. "That was quicker than expected."

"And less painful," Leia countered. "I'm being appointed to a council for the maintenance
of the refugee populations in the Empire."

"Congratulations," Winter said genuinely. "Your father will be pleased."

"Indeed," Leia said quietly. "Let's be going."
* * *
Leia rushed down the ramp and into her father's waiting arms. He embraced her tightly,
nearly lifting her off the ground.

"It's so good to have you home," he whispered.

"I've been away too long," she countered.

She pulled away and smiled. "Come, we will talk."

He offered an arm, which he took. "Later. For now, we have breakfast to eat and state
functions to plan."

Leia made a soft noise of protest and smiled slightly. "I thought I told you I'm not
interested in a five-day Ascension festival."

Bail smiled. "Of course. But you cannot deny one day of festivities. A promenade
through the streets of Aldera in the morning, the supplication of the thanes, and a ball at
night, ending with the presentation of the Antibes palace."

She sighed. "Can't I just have a small party for my friends with too much sweetener
in the cake and a badly-written holodrama on the viewer?"

He laughed. "When you are vicerene, perhaps, but you are the people's princess, not
your own. The Ascension is traditionally the grandest event of any royal career. You have to
indulge them for at least one day."

"Yes, Father," she grumbled.

He put on a mock-serious expression. "It is your duty. After the Ascension, you will
be the primary ruler of Alderaan, not I. I will be your advisor, your mentor, but I will not
be your viceroy."

She stretched up to kiss him on the cheek. "No, you will be my father."

"A greater honor can no man wish for," he said quietly. "You will make a great vicerene,
Leia."

"So, what is there to plan? I imagine you've had mother and half your staff working
for the last five months."

His expression broke into a smile. "You know me too well." He gestured to her simple
Senatorial gown. "You don't expect to take over a world dressed like that, do you?"

She sighed. "I suppose not. Lead on."
* * *
Leia stood perfectly still, trying to be patient with the seamstress. "Can't I at least
see what it looks like?"

"Not until we're finished."

She sighed and glanced at Lisa and Winter. "Be grateful you don't have to endure this."

Lisa laughed. "We still have to be dressed and coiffed and slathered with cosmetics;
we're your retinue."

"Yes, but you two look good in anything. I, on the other hand have to have a royal
wardrobe to make up for my dismal features."

Lisa made a face at her. "I thought we had a deal. I wouldn't criticize your taste
in men if you didn't insult yourself."

Leia shrugged. "Five months on Imperial Center will turn anyone into a cynic."

"Hold still," the seamstress snapped. "I'm almost finished."

"Sorry," Leia said for the hundredth time.

"If Madame Zehran is snapping at the future vicerene of Alderaan, she must be frustrated
with you," Lisa said wryly.

"Indeed," Leia agreed. "It's forgivable; I'm not the most patient person, even under
the best of circumstances."

Winter sent her a small smile and shook her head. "Your father wants me to give you the
rundown. You'll have four gowns, obviously for the promenade, the supplication, the ball, and
the palace. Upon presentation of the palace at a public ceremony on the East fifth-floor
balcony, you will make a speech to the Alderaanian people. Basically, an inaugural address.
No limit on time, but your father suggests you take as much time as you feel you need."

Leia smiled slightly. "As long as it's not the genre of 'you and the bantha you rode
in on?'"

Lisa rolled her eyes. "Essentially."

"After the speech, you will travel with a rather large escort to the Antibes Palace,
then finally left alone."

"Thank the stars," Leia said wryly.

"Finished," the seamstress pronounced.

Leia crossed to the mirror and took in her reflection. The gown, tailored for the morning's
events, was an elegant drapery of mauve shimmersilk. The scooped neckline fell just below the
line of her collarbones and had silver ribbons threaded through the fabric. The sleeves fell
to just below her elbow and were fitted close to her small arms. The empire waist ended in a
long drapery of the material, brushing against the ground, and was embroidered with small flowers
in the same color as the ribbons.

"It's perfect," she breathed.

"I am pleased Her Highness likes it," Zehran said with a genuine smile.

Leia turned to grin at her. "Madame Zehran, you've been making my gowns for as long
as I can remember and you've never failed to amaze me."

She bowed deeply. "It has been my pleasure."
* * *
"Ah, Leia. Come in."

Leia stepped past Mer, her father's aide, and into his office. Mer squeezed her arm,
then bowed deeply in respect. "A joy to see you again, Princess. Alderaan can never be complete
without your influence."

"Thank you," she said graciously, sending him a smile. "Is your family well?"

"Yes, thank you."

Bail waved her to a seat. "Good night, Mer."

"Good night, Bail."

The door closed and Leia sank into a chair. "Did you hear about Garm?"

"Yes," Bail said hoarsely. "It is a great loss for us all."

"Indeed." She clasped her hands in her lap. "What news from Aach?"

"Aach is dead as well."

Leia sagged, her mouth dropping open in horror. "No."

"He went to Anchoron to enlist Garm's help in the Darknell mission and was killed while
trying to leave the planet." Bail lowered his chin to his chest. "It is a miracle that more
of our number were not killed in the retrieval of the plans."

Leia straightened. "We got them?"

He nodded solemnly. "An Alliance courier will be bringing them to Toprawa in seven
days. From there, they will come here."

"Shouldn't they be going to Alliance Command?"

"They will," he countered. "Soon after you return, I will be meeting with the High
Command. We will decide what to do with the information then."

Leia's face went pale. "After *I* return?"

Bail reached out and took her hands gently. "I don't trust anyone with this mission
as I trust you. Please, do this for me. It is a simple courier mission, no danger in it."

"Indeed," she said quietly.

Simple courier missions were rarely that. The Imperial intelligence networks were extensive,
efficient, and active. Any number of things could go wrong. There was something about this
mission that didn't feel right.

Bail frowned. "Are you all right?"

She shuddered. "I don't know why, but something is alerting my danger sense. Something
about this mission isn't as it should be."

A look of mild horror flickered across his noble features. "Nevertheless, this mission
must succeed. You are the only one I know who could handle any crisis that arises."

"I do not deserve such confidence in my abilities," she said with a slight smile.

He smiled. "I trust you enough to let you rule my beloved home world, Leia. After that,
I have confidence in everything you do. I try never to second-guess you because you're usually
right."

She nodded, then squeezed his hands. "When do I leave?"
* * *
Leia sighed in exasperation and hit the TERMINATE key on her datapad. She'd been working
on the speech she was to give to the people of Alderaan at the moment of her ascension for five
hours and she was still getting nowhere.

"You'd think after five months in the Senate, I'd have speech-writing down to a science."

Her mother, the elegant Sache Organa sighed and retrieved a brush from the nightstand.
"Your father was in the Senate for twenty-five years and it's still a difficult task. Don't
flatter yourself into thinking that you'll be the first Organa to have it come easily."

"That's reassuring," Leia said sourly.

Sache removed the pins that held Leia's intricate hairstyle in place and began undoing
the braids with long, nimble fingers. "When the time comes, you will know what to say. You
have a greater love for Alderaan and its people than even your father. It will be shown in
your words as well as the great deeds you will perform in the name of justice once you are vicerene."

Leia smiled and set the datapad aside. "Perhaps I should sleep before attempting to
be eloquent."

"Always a good idea."

Leia drew her knees up to her chest and rested her chin on them as Sache began brushing
out her hair. "Did Father tell you about my upcoming trip," she asked tentatively.

The brushing halted momentarily, then resumed. "Naturally," Sache said quietly.

Leia half-turned her head. "You do not approve?"

Sache sighed. "It's not what you think, Leia." She set the brush down and began braiding
Leia's hair into a single plait. "I lost everything I had before you were born. My home world
was virtually destroyed by the Emperor, my friends murdered or driven into hiding. I've seen
more of the destructive capabilities of war than most people see in a lifetime.

"I admire your father for what he's trying to do and I admire you for your sense of justice
and mercy. But it's bad enough that I know the danger your father is constantly in because of
his ties to the Alliance. That he would put you in the same danger is almost more than I can
bear."

Leia turned her head back and frowned. "Even if I do it willingly?"

"Even if," Sache agreed. "No mother is ready for her child to face the possibility
of death."

Leia winced. "Oh."

"I do not doubt your intentions," Sache said quietly. "I know that you believe in the
cause, but I also know that you would do absolutely anything for your father. I wonder if that
is the reason for your accepting this mission, or the sense that you will not come to any
harm."

Leia turned and smiled slightly. "You know me, Mother. I will never deliberately risk
myself, except if it is absolutely worth the cost."

Sache rested a hand on her shoulder. "I know," she agreed. "I think it's time you said
goodnight to your father. You've had a long day and you'll need all the strength you can muster
for the days ahead."

Leia embraced her quickly. "Good night, Mother."

She stood and ushered her mother out the door before heading for her father's private
office. It was a long trek from the East Wing, where the royal chambers were, to the South Wing,
but she'd always loved taking the scenic route over the red marble floors, through the
vicerenes corridor, where all the portraits of former vicerenes hung, and finally, through the
Hall of Mirrors.

She paused outside the intricately carved doors at the sound of her father's voice.
"Leia must not know about this, understand?"

She smiled slightly. Probably some surprise for the ascension. She reached for the
door, ready to interrupt the revelation.

"Tarkin's actions are inexcusable," a voice that she identified as Crix Madine, the
Alliance's premier ground commander, said. "The Ghorman Massacre was paralleled by the assassination
of Bel Iblis. I believe that either you or Leia will be next."

Leia froze her hand on the doorknob. *Assassination?*

"Tarkin has been after her for months now because of her unusual influence over her
colleagues," Madine continued. "Now that the session has adjourned for the next month, she
is in no immediate danger, but I suggest she abdicate."

"The Senate is on the verge of collapse as it is," Bail said firmly. "Senator Calen
will be able to maintain our position. Leia should be here to rule her planet as it is. Perhaps
that will placate the Grand Miffed Tarkin."

"And in the meantime, before the Ascension? Is there not danger here on Alderaan?"

"We would like to think there is not," Bail growled. "But she is the one who will be
bringing the Death Star plans to us."

"A diversion," Madine mused.

"A necessity," Bail countered. "I trust her more than anyone to pull off the mission.
Her protection will simply be a commodity."

There was an almost inaudible sigh from Madine. "Very well. I must be going before
my presence is discovered."

Leia stood her ground as the door opened. Both men stared at her in shock. "Your
Highness," Madine said softly, then bowed.

He moved past her and down the Hall of Mirrors. Bail stepped aside to allow her into
the office and closed the door behind her. She folded her arms and focused a stare on him.

"How long have you been standing there," he asked quietly.

"Long enough," she replied icily. "What happened at Ghorman?"

"One of our cells there was discovered; in retaliation, Tarkin had the entire population
of the refugee camps massacred."

"And they were the ones under General Bel Iblis?"

"Yes." He gripped her shoulders. "Colonel Madine thinks that Tarkin suspects our
involvement and may make a strike against us."

"How? There is no evidence."

Bail sighed. "In Imperial 'justice,' there is no need for evidence. Be careful what
you say and who you say it to. If we lay low in our crusading, we may evade a similar fate as
Ghorman."

She nodded solemnly. "I understand."

The skin around his eyes crinkled in amusement. "Liar."

She stood on tiptoe and kissed his cheek as she had every night at home for the last
eighteen years. "Good night, Father."

"Good night, my princess," he replied, wrapping her in a comforting embrace. "Put it
from your mind; you have nothing to fear here."
* * *
Leia awoke to the sound of an explosion. Startled, she bolted upright and threw back
the covers. She stood and crossed to the door.

Guards rushed past. Two took up post next to her door. "What's happening?"

"Explosion at Northport," one of the guards reported. "Secondary explosions at the Council
building and the West wing of the Palace."

Leia caught her breath. "Where's my father?"

"Safe, Your Highness."

Leia started forward to head to the viceroy's quarters, but the guard restrained her
gently. "Stay back, Your Highness."

"I have to see my father."

"Your father is busy with controlling the crisis."

His commlink beeped and he retrieved it. "Saare here."

There was a pause and Leia went to retrieve her robe. She cinched it around her waist
and returned to the doorway. "What's going on?"

The guard held up a hand. "We'll be right there. Saare out." He pocketed the comm
and turned to her. "Your Highness, there has been another threat. We're evacuating the Palace.
If you will come with me..."

Leia nodded and snagged a pair of half boots from her closet. She pulled them on and
followed them to the private hangar that housed all the royal family's personal vehicles.

Her father caught her in a quick embrace, then helped her into the enclosed speeder
where her Mother was already waiting. "Where are we going," Leia asked a bit querulously.

"The Antibes Palace."

She sighed in relief. "Have the attackers identified themselves?"

"No," he said sourly. "They have not made any contact. I think, however, it was a strike
against what weapons we have remaining. The section of Northport that was destroyed housed
the ships of Aldera's Home Guard units and the West Wing is primarily the Defense Council's
territory. We're having reports from all over the planet of similar attacks."

Leia caught her breath. "What is being done about it?"

"We're having a search of all remaining Guard units and in the meantime, those areas
are being evacuated to various administrative facilities. Thankfully, there were few personnel
lost in the attack, given the time of night."

Sache rested a hand on his arm. "Please, Bail. Let's not speak of this for now."

He nodded wearily. "See to it that Leia gets back to bed." He turned to face her.
"I don't want you involved in this. Too much danger."

Leia narrowed her eyes. "You don't think I could be of some use?"

Bail sighed. "Leia, you are too much like me. Reckless and indignant. I know you
could help, but the most important thing right now is preserving lives. That includes you."

Leia scowled. "Yes, Father."

Sache rested a hand on her arm. "Your father's primary duty as viceroy of Alderaan
is to protect the future of Alderaan. You *are* the future; nothing must endanger you, if
we can help it."

"Once you are in control of Alderaan, you will learn the importance of self-preservation
moderated by merciful involvement."

Leia nodded. "I understand."

"We will be shifting the headquarters to the Antibes Palace for the time being," Saare
interjected. "The Council has been alerted."

"How many of our people are being rerouted to the Palace?"

"We don't have a count yet. We're trying not to overcrowd."

"Tell whoever's in charge that I want every room used. I'll even sleep on the balcony
if it'll mean someone has a home."

Saare nodded, a hint of a smile on his lips. "I'll let them know, viceroy."
* * *
The days passed with little excitement. The investigations into the bombings continued,
with little effect. There were no communications, no threats, and no sign of any further aggression.
Reticently, the Royal Guard allowed them to move back into the Aldera Palace, where offices,
conference rooms, and even dining halls were converted into hostels.

Life went on, for the most part, as it had before. There were still the preparations
for the Ascension, state functions, and Council meetings. Leia was required to attend all planetary
legislative sessions, in order to familiarize herself with the system she would be governing.

At last, it was the night before she was to leave for Toprawa and tensions were running
high. Leia sat in her quarters, trying for the fourth time to get through the same page of a
report.

The anunciator chimed and she rubbed her eyes wearily for a moment before keying the
door open. "Enter."

Bail entered. "It's your last night before the mission. Shouldn't you be enjoying
it while you can?"

Leia made a face. "I've been working all day, reading half the night. I don't think
I have time to enjoy any of this."

He nodded. "Welcome to royalty." He crossed to her and pulled her gently to her feet.
"But even royalty has to relax sometimes."

"After the mission," she offered.

He shook his head. "I have to make a trip to the Antibes Palace tonight. I thought
you might like to come."

She grinned. "I might be persuaded to relax for that."

He released her hands and crossed to her storage cubicle. He removed her heavy cloak
and tossed it to her. She pulled it on and followed him to the hangar. He turned to help her
into the landspeeder, then blindfolded her before she knew what was happening.

"What?!"

He squeezed her hand. "Don't worry, you're safe. But this is a necessary evil."

She folded her arms and scowled. "This is no way to treat a Princess."

He laughed and crossed to the driver's side. She could hear him ignite the engines
and settled in for the ride.

"I suppose you won't tell me where we're going."

"I already told you where we're going. I just didn't say why."

"Blasted loopholes," she grumbled, trying not to smile.

"You're far too trusting."

"Your fault for teaching me to believe in the basic good of others. I would have never
expected my own father to betray me."

She could hear the amusement in his voice. "Worse than that, it wasn't my idea. Now
be quiet or I'll have to silence you."

"Yes, Father," she said with a touch of mocking in her voice.

At last, the vehicle stopped and someone pulled her from the vehicle. She was led into
the Palace and set on a chair. She could hear stifled laughter.

"Leia Organa," Winter's voice said. "You are here for the purposes of Ascension with
the values and intentions that should accompany such an event--joy, fun, friends, and family.
Are you ready to proceed?"

Leia smiled, recognizing the parody of the prologue Governor Elar would be giving at
her official Ascension. "Yes, my Lady."

"Then let the blindness be remedied."

Hands untied the blindfold and it fell away to reveal Lisa, Winter, Zeria, and Meian
standing behind her father.

"We will commence with the promenade of the grounds," Meian said gravely. "Your Highness,
if you will accompany us..."

Leia stood in as much regal splendor as an eighteen-year-old girl in a nightgown could
muster and took Bail's hand. He turned her to face the elaborately carved throne that she had
just vacated.

"This is the throne room. It is from here that you will enact justice and deepen your
love for the Alderaanian people. It is not raised because you are never to forget that you are
one of our citizens, with the same duties to the law as any other person."

He guided her from the throne room and into the council wings. "This is where you will
act for the benefit of those you love."

"Viceroy," Winter interjected. "We'll take it from here."

Leia fought back a smile at Winter's boldness. "You have something to add, Lady Winter?"

"Yes, Your Highness."

Lisa gripped her arms and led her from the council wing into the grand rotunda that
formed the heart of the Palace.

"We could tell you of your duty, of your future, of the power you will have in a matter
of days. But that is not the most important thing.

"This is the heart of the Palace. If you ever need to remember why you're here, stand
at the great seal in this and turn slowly around. You will see that you are only one person
among the many in this Palace and you can only do as much as possible before losing sight of
yourself."

Leia was turned to the South. "This wing houses the royal staff. It will be where you
will come after a long day of ruling your people, after state functions, after being exalted
over all others. But once inside this wing, you are not the vicerene or even the princess
or the heir to the high court of House Organa. You are Leia and you are mortal. You must remember
to allow yourself to return to this state every night.

"Some royalty have a staff of hundreds. We will not care how many aides or councilors
you have, as long as you always turn to your friends before losing hope."
* * *
Her friends had gone home, succumbing to the exhaustion that the night's festivities
had wrought. The litter had been swept away, leaving almost no sign that there had been anyone
there in the last months.

Except for the two individuals on the top level's balcony, enjoying nature and each
other for as long as duty would allow them.

Leia snuggled under her father's arm and tilted her chin to look at the stars. "When
I was a child and you were on Coruscant so much, I used to sit on my balcony and watch the skies.
I'd find the Coruscant star and weakly attempt telepathy, hoping that as my father, you'd hear
how much I loved you from lightyears away. When I'm at my apartments on Coruscant, I still
do the same thing."

He heaved a sigh. "You and I are so much alike," he said quietly. "Gallant sentimentalists."

"Congenital defect," she quipped.

"Indeed."

He pulled back slightly and she straightened. He reached into his pocket and removed
a small box. Leia took it and unwrapped it. Inside was a delicate gold chain with an almost
bone-like pendant with strange carvings. It was strangely mesmerizing.

"It's beautiful," she breathed. "What is it?"

He lifted the necklace from the box and reached around her neck to fasten it. "This
belonged to your mother," he said quietly. "Someone she loved very deeply made it for her when
she was young to bring her good fortune. She wore it until the day she died and I know she'd
want you to have it."

Leia impulsively threw her arms around his neck and embraced him tightly, her face buried
in his shoulder. He returned the gesture and they sat there until the city's carillon proclaimed
that morning was approaching.

"We need to be going," he said quietly.

"I know," she returned. "Thank you for everything."

"My pleasure."
* * *
"Do they have to come?"

Bail turned to see a protocol droid and his astromech counterpart. "They're in case you need a translator or ship repairs."

Leia ran a hand through her hair and scowled. "I'd rather they not come."

"As would we all, but they could be of some use to you."

"I doubt it," Leia said sourly.

Bail squeezed her arm. "Just trust me on this."

She sighed. "I'd better be going," she whispered.

"I know." He brushed a stray strand of hair back from her face. "Come back safe."

"As long as you're here, I'll always do my best to make it back."

They embraced tightly as if it were their last chance. Then, the engines were activated and Leia boarded the Tantive IV without looking back. Sache linked her arm through Bail's and rested her head on his shoulder.

"Are you all right?"

He sighed. "I just have the feeling I'll never see her again."
* * *
"Coming up on the Toprawa system."

Leia looked up from her datapad and smiled at Captain Antilles. "Thank you for the
warning," she said wryly. "Any sign of Imperial entanglements?"

"Not yet." He tossed her a package. "Your civilian attire, Your Highness. The shuttle
leaves whenever you're ready."

He closed the door and Leia changed into the tan slacks and sleeveless white tunic.
She removed her intricate hairstyle and pulled her hair back in a clasp. She pulled on knee-
high boots and a utility belt, then left her quarters.

The small eta-class shuttle was parked in the auxiliary hangar. She could hear the
hum of engines that meant the ship was powering up. She bounded up the landing ramp and into the cockpit.

"Your Highness," the pilot said respectfully.

"Lieutenant Cherten," she replied with a slight bow. "Are we ready to go?"

"Yes, Highness."

She sank into the copilot's chair and strapped in. "Then let's be off."

Thirty minutes later, they landed in the docking bay assigned them by Toprawa Flight
Control. Leia retrieved the satchel containing identification cards, credits, and datacards
which had been prepared for her by her father's agents and joined Lieutenant Cherten at the
hatch.

"Remember," she said quietly. "I am not Your Highness or Princess or even Leia. Until
we make definitive contact with the courier, I am Daen Leter and I am your subordinate."

"I shall remember, Daen," Cherten replied.

He removed a holdout blaster and offered it to her. She gripped it and holstered it.
"Shall we be going?"

Twenty minutes later, they arrived at the Feldon Shipping Company's main office. "We
are here to speak to Aetern."

The receptionist looked up with a scowl on his features. "Do you have an appointment?"

"No, but I'm sure Aetern would benefit from the services we can offer." He glanced around
the sparse front office. "As you all could."

"I'm sure," the receptionist said wryly. "Who shall I say is here?"

"Baron Lzar and his aide, Daen Leter."

"One moment."

He disappeared into the back office and returned a minute later with a tall woman.
She crossed to Chetern and smiled genuinely. "Baron, an honor to see you again."

"Likewise, my dear lady," Chetern countered. "I don't believe you've met my aide, Daen."

Aetern barely acknowledged her. "What brings you back here?"

"Is there somewhere where we could converse?"

She nodded fractionally. "Come with me."

They crossed to a small conference room in the rear of the building. Aetern activated
the lock, then turned and bowed. "Your Highness, an honor."

"The pleasure is mine."

Chetern crossed to Aetern and embraced her tightly. "I wouldn't have guessed you'd be
here."

"War changes people," Aetern countered. "When did you join the Rebellion?"

"I work for Bail Organa; my loyalties are to his cause."

"You have something for us," Leia asked quietly.

Aetern palmed open a panel near the door and removed a datapack. "You have no idea how
difficult this was to come by," she said wryly.

Leia took the datapack and stared at it for a long moment. "I've heard stories. We
thank you for your trouble."

"My pleasure."

Chetern removed a card from his pocket and handed it to her. "That's an access code
to a secure credit line. The money's in there."

"Thank you."

Leia frowned. "Is there anything we can do for you? Do you have a way off the planet?"

Aetern nodded. "I'm set up here because this is the best relay station we have as of
yet. If worst comes to worse, I have a Z-95 to get me offworld."

Chetern rested a hand on her shoulder. "Do you want me to get a message to your family?
They *are* under the impression that you died a year ago."

She frowned. "They can't know I'm alive. It's too risky for everyone involved."

He nodded. "The hazards of Intelligence work."

Her mouth twitched. "The hazards of anything to do with the Alliance."

Leia checked her chrono. "We should be going; the less time we spend here, the slimmer
chance of the Empire tracing our presence."

"Exactly my thoughts," Aetern agreed. "Good luck."

"And to you."
* * *
Leia bolted upright as the klaxons were set off. She could hear the pounding of boots
on the decking outside her quarters and the urgent voices of troopers.

"Star Destroyer inbound, they're firing disabling shots. No questions asked. Vader."

She froze, shocked and her eyes immediately locked onto the datapack on her nightstand.
The plans had to be hidden.

She stood and found her Senatorial dress. She pulled the white dress over her head and
belted it, then pulled on her boots. Her blaster and the datapack went under her arm.

As soon as she entered the corridor, she was met by Lieutenant Cherten. "Where are
we," she demanded.

"Tatooine," he said breathlessly. "Your Highness, I suggest you find someplace to hide."

"I have no intention of letting the rest of you..."

He gripped her arms. "You have to keep the data safe. Why else would Vader be after
us?"

She hesitated, then nodded. "Tell Captain Antilles to stall."

Cherten nodded. "Don't worry about us; we're here to keep them from getting to you."

She winced. "Be careful."

"As always."

Leia bolted for the hold, where the astromechs were usually kept. If she could just
find one to store the information...

An explosion rocked the ship and she braced herself against a bulkhead. She ducked into
a side corridor to avoid the incoming troopers. *Perhaps I should move away from the main
hatch.

"Did you hear that?"

She turned to see the protocol droid shuffling down the corridor, his counterpart in
tow. "They've shut down the main reactor. We'll be destroyed for sure. There'll be no escape
for the princess."

She ducked back as they passed. She marked the number on the astromech and withdrew
her commlink. "Captain," she said quietly.

"Your Highness, are you safe?"

"Not yet." She glanced back down the corridor. "Can you have astromech R2-D2 sent
to the generator room?"

"Yes, Your Highness."

"Don't let them know I'm here," she said, then closed the connection.

She made her way carefully aft to the generator room, where she knew no one would be
looking for her. The sounds of metal clanging could only mean that they had been tractored in.
She caught her breath and pressed her back against the cool metal of the bulkhead. Then everything
went dangerously silent. The only noise was her rasping breath and the pounding of her heart.

She could almost see the soldiers lining the corridor, blasters at the ready, eyes fixed
on the hatch, wondering when the destruction would start.

It was a horrible thing to send men to their deaths.

Her father had always told her that if she were in mortal danger to contact certain
people. The only one on Tatooine was an old Republic general named Kenobi.

Obi-wan Kenobi.

The toots and whistles of an approaching droid broke her out of her reverie. She let
out her breath and beckoned R2-D2 closer. She crouched. "I need you to upload these datacards
into your memory and let no one but those with the voiceprints of Princess Leia Organa or General
Obi-wan Kenobi access them."

He whistled a protest, but she held up a hand. "Keep quiet. This is important."

She inserted the first card into the upload slot, keeping a close eye on the corridor.
The process was agonizing slow; she could hear the shots coming closer. In minutes there would
be no time for subterfuge.

Finally, the last datacard ejected and she shoved the datapack into the narrow space
just below the shield generator. Turning back to the droid, she pulled her hood up and leaned
in.

"I need to record a message. Can you set that up for me?"

The droid beeped an affirmative, his domed top swiveling back and forth. In a minute,
his projector recording light came on and she straightened.

"General Kenobi," she said quietly. "Years ago, you served my father in the Clone Wars.
Now he begs you to help him in his struggle against the Empire. I regret that I am unable to
bring my father's request to you in person, but my ship has fallen under attack and I am afraid
that my mission to bring you to Alderaan has failed. I have placed information vital to the
security of the Rebellion in the memory banks of this R2 unit. You must see him safely delivered
to my father on Alderaan. This is our most desperate hour."

She spread her hands. "Help me, Obi-wan Kenobi," she pleaded. "You're my only hope."

The sound of blaster fire very nearby caused her to look over her shoulder, but there
was no one there. She leaned forward and stopped the recording.

"Get to an escape pod," she ordered the droid. "Your mission is to find Obi-wan Kenobi
and deliver this message and data to him. The war depends on your success."

"Artoo? Artoo-detoo, where *are* you?"

She ducked back behind the generator and watched the droid go, hoping fervently that
the protocol droid would not dissuade his counterpart from the mission.

*Now nothing to do but wait for the disaster,* she thought grimly.
* * *
They were coming.

She could hear the modulated voices and heavy boots that announced the presence of
stormtroopers. She raised her blaster pistol to a ready position and stepped cautiously out
to assess the situation.

"There's one. Set for stun."

Leia's eyes narrowed and her blaster took aim. *Stun this.*

She took down two before turning to take better cover. A flash of blue half-blinded
her just before she hit the deck. Every nerve fired, her muscles contracted, and unconsciousness
blessedly came.

She awoke to find herself being half-carried, half-dragged down a corridor. She struggled
to get her feet under her.

"The prisoner is awake, Captain."

The troopers dropped her and she fell to her knees, only steadied by an outflung arm.
She glared up at the emotionless mask of the stormtrooper and summoned all her strength to get
to her feet. A muscle in her lower back twinged as she straightened, but she kept the pain
from showing on her face.

She was, above all, an Alderaanian princess.

They bound her hands behind her back, then shoved her forward. She turned an indignant
glower on the man, then lifted her chin and continued down the corridor.

Around the next bend was Darth Vader. She drew up short of him and squared her shoulders.
"Darth Vader," she said with every ounce of royal indignation and political self-righteousness
that she had in her, "only you could be this bold. The Imperial Senate will not sit still for
this. When they here that you've attacked a diplomatic..."

"Don't play games with me, Your Highnes," Vader snapped. "You weren't on any mercy
mission. Several transmissions were beamed to this by Rebel spies. I want to know what happened
to the plans they sent you."

Leia narrowed her eyes and pressed her lips together. "I don't know what you're talking
about. I'm a member of the Imperial Senate on a diplomatic mission to Alderaan."

He stabbed a finger in her direction. "You are part of the Rebel Alliance and a traitor,"
he countered. "Take her away."

She spat at him, then turned and stalked away as though she were leaving under her
own free will.

One must keep up appearances.

"He doesn't leave much room for debate, does she," he said loudly.

There was no reply; she didn't particularly expect one. Stormtroopers were almost as
infamously soulless as Darth Vader himself and not half as easy to provoke.

She let her gaze drift over the hallway. It had been a messy battle for both sides.
The troopers had lost, but they'd gone down fighting.

Her foot stubbed against something and she glanced down in horror to see Lieutenant
Cherten's sightless eyes staring back at her. She fought back the urge to vomit and raised
her chin.

She had no time for sorrows.

A Fleet trooper in a Lieutenant's uniform met them at the hatch. "So, this is the
spy we've been chasing halfway across the sector."

"Lord Vader has ordered for her to be taken into custody."

The Lieutenant looked her over. "She'll be transferred to the Death Star for more
extensive interrogation in a day or so. Put her in maximum security containment under sedation.
Two guards in four-hour shifts."

"I will not be taken anywhere," Leia said imperiously. "This is in violation of at
least seven Imperial legislative measures. You have no right to detain me."

The Lieutenant stepped in close, towering over her. She met his gaze steadily, not
intimidated in the slightest.

"You might want to hold your tongue, Princess. It can only get you into trouble."

"I'm not afraid of anything except injustice," she countered. "And I fight not with
the chokehold diplomacy of the Empire, but mercy."

"Save your discourses for the interrogation droids."

He nodded slightly to the guard behind her. A blow to her head sent her crashing to
the floor and into darkness.
* * *