Quoted By:
The hum of the GX1 short hauler's engines filled the room as Mariada worked diligently, her fingers dancing across the control panel with practiced ease. Kessarion observed from a short distance. "Starships have various frequencies and channels they communicate on," Mariada began, her voice laced with concentration. "The trick is finding a frequency so unique, so different from the standard, that they wouldn't think to monitor it."
She paused for a moment, adjusting a few dials and examining a waveform display. "Think of it as... whispering in a crowd. If everyone is shouting, no one will hear the whispers."
Kessarion nodded in understanding. "And you can create such a whisper?" Mariada smirked, "There we go. This channel is as encrypted as it's going to get. It should provide a window of safe communication, at least for a short duration."
Gratitude welled up in Kessarion. "Thank you, Mariada. This could be the lifeline we need." Moving closer to the console, he took a deep breath, focusing his thoughts and energies. The encrypted channel flickered to life, and Kessarion was met with a familiar but weary face. Lorrha's eyes, once so full of determination and hope, now carried a deep-set fear that was palpable even through the holo-communication.
"Lorrha," Kessarion began, voice laden with concern, "It's good to see you alive. Are you okay?" The Wookiee hesitated for a moment, her eyes darting away before meeting Kessarion's gaze once more. "Master Kessarion," her voice wavered, the trauma of recent events evident, "I... I never thought I would hear your voice again. After... after what happened... with the clones..." she trailed off, struggling to find the words.
Kessarion gave her a reassuring nod. "I understand, Lorrha. The galaxy has changed in unimaginable ways. But we have each other now." She took a deep breath, finding solace in her master's voice. "I was adrift in space, alone and scared. Then I received the transmission about Dantooine. I was going, but then... I felt you. Your presence stopped me in my tracks. I didn't trust the message, and I'm glad I didn't."
A warmth spread through Kessarion. The Force had indeed guided them. "I'm grateful you trusted your instincts, Lorrha."
She nodded, "When your transmission came through, I was hesitant. Everything inside me told me not to answer, to hide and stay silent. But again, I felt your presence. It was as if the Force was guiding me to you." Kessarion smiled gently. "Our bond is strong. Now, we need to regroup and stay ahead of the threat that looms over us."
Lorrha agreed, "Where should we meet?"
"Toprawa," Kessarion responded, "I've arranged a safe landing spot. Transmitting the coordinates to you now."
Lorrha's holographic figure looked more determined now. "I'm not far. I'll make my way there. Just... be careful, Master. Kessarion nodded, "May the Force be with you, Lorrha. See you soon."
1/2
