Return to Coruscant, part 2…

It had been months since the crew had last seen Coruscant, yet the Imperial hub seemed no different than when last we’d left.

If anything, Coruscant had only grown more beautiful. The Empire was thriving, and Coruscant seemed to embody our every success.

I walked alongside Vader as we made our way to the launch pad where his silver Valorean speeder awaited.

“You remembered…” I said, climbing inside.

Vader nodded.

“I intend to set my mark on the Imperial court, so play the game.” he replied.

“I strive to impress, my lord.”

“You’ve never failed…” Vader said, softening, “You deserve more than I can give, Brisard.”

I favored Vader with a soft smile.

“You command me, my lord. As with everything which is rightfully yours…use that mindset and bend the Imperial court to your will.”

Vader held his silence and nodded, setting a course for the Emperor’s palace. I could see the tension flare in his shoulders and lightly grasped his arm.

“A charade, my lord, and nothing more. You are too good a man to be pompous as the courtiers. But, for this instant, set yourself above them. Delight in it.”

“It is foreign to me…” he replied, “Unsettling…”

“View it as a challenge.” I suggested, “A game of wits.”

“Everything is a game, Brisard. Therein lies the problem.”

“Everything worth having, my lord, is worth fighting for…”

“And just how many of the Moffs and courtiers have lifted a finger to fight for anything, Brisard?” he asked, “They have not. Instead, they have had everything handed to them on a silver platter.”

We reached our destination before I could argue the situation further.

“Come with me, Brisard.” Vader said, extending his arm, “The Emperor will wish to speak with you.”

 

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