>>7524508Dooku stopped to study him. “Your truer nature begins to reveal itself, I think.” When Palpatine made no response, he added, “Congratulations, by the way, on Naboo’s defeat of the Trade Federation. An odd series of events, wouldn’t you agree?”
Palpatine nodded and resumed a measured pace. “Everyone involved—including me—underestimated the abilities of our Queen. It pained me to learn that Master Qui-Gon had been killed.” He paused momentarily. “Was it his death that firmed your decision to leave the Order?”
“To a degree,” Dooku said, scowling. “I’ve learned recently that another of my Padawans—Komari Vosa—is alive.”
“I hope that’s some consolation,” Palpatine started to say.
“It isn’t, as she is said to be leading the Bando Gora.” Dooku looked at him. “She could be a danger to the Republic, Supreme Chancellor.”
“Then thank you for the warning. How did the Council react to your departure?”“
Not well. They demanded more explanation than I was willing to provide.”
“And Master Sifo-Dyas?”
Dooku frowned. “He knew that my leaving was simply a matter of time. Although he did say something I found to be rather curious. He said that if I had any designs on instigating dissent, he would be one step ahead of me.”
Palpatine shook his head in confusion. “Are you planning to instigate dissent?”
Dooku smiled faintly. “My first order of business is to reclaim my title.”
“Count Dooku,” Palpatine said, assessing the sound of it. “Somehow it suits you better than Master Dooku.”
“I’m tempted to adopt a new name altogether.”
“A new beginning.”
“Perhaps I should do as you’ve done.”
“As I’ve done?” Palpatine said.“
Call myself Dooku, as you retitled yourself Palpatine.”
“I see. Well, what meaning is conveyed by a name, in any case?”
