The opulent dining room at the top of one of Coruscant's megaspires buzzed with loud conversation. The wealthy elite of the planet had gathered, dressed in fine outfits and embroidered robes, their jewellery reflecting the soft glow of golden lights overhead. Servants moved quickly but silently, refilling glasses with thousand-year-old Naboo wine and delivering trays stacked with delicacies that most people in the lower levels of Coruscant would never see in their lifetimes—Dathomiran dark-rippled Zorlack meat, finely sliced and served on crackers as appetizers. The sound of live music played by a group of expertly trained musicians filled the room, accompanied by the finest dancers from across the galaxy.
This was the wealthiest class of Coruscant—the self-proclaimed nobility. Their fortunes made them untouchable, powerful enough to influence senators and governors. If they combined their resources, they could form a third faction independent of both the Republic and the Separatists. Yet, their financial ties to the Republic and its stability kept them loyal, for now.
Gatherings like this were common. Few of these people needed to work, so their days were filled with entertainment, social maneuvering, and displays of wealth. They spoke about rare acquisitions and unique treasures, each competing to own something more exotic, more expensive than the others. The cost of this single evening could have fed thousands in the undercity below, but such concerns never crossed their minds. They were never satisfied.
On the balcony, one man stood apart from the others, his gaze fixed on the cityscape stretching far below him. Coruscant's endless sprawl of lights and towers glimmered in the distance. From this height, he could see the flight lanes filled with constant traffic, starships weaving through the tightly regulated patterns of movement. He held a crystal glass filled with dark amber liquid, swirling it idly as he waited.
The heavy thud of boots drew his attention. He didn't turn around. "Did you use the servants' entrance?" he asked, his tone neutral.
"Yes," replied the armored figure behind him. The voice was filtered through a helmet, giving it a hollow, mechanical quality.
"Good." The man sipped his drink, his eyes still on the city. "I'd rather not have the others disturbed by your... presence."
The Mandalorian remained silent.
"What do you have to report?" the man asked, finally turning to face her.
"He got away," the Mandalorian said.
The man froze for a moment, lowering his glass. Then he turned fully, his expression hardening. "I paid a great deal to ensure you had everything you needed for this job. Yet you're standing here empty-handed, telling me you failed?"
"He was stronger than expected," she said, her voice tight.
The man scoffed. "A child overwhelmed a Mandalorian? How embarrassing." He smirked, but it faded as he noticed the Mandalorian's stance stiffen. Her fists clenched slightly, and the subtle shift in her posture told him she was holding back anger.
He stepped closer, his voice lowering. "Don't forget who's financing your little rebellion on Concordia. If you fail me again, perhaps I'll let certain people know about your... divided loyalties."
The Mandalorian didn't flinch, but the subtle tension in her shoulders betrayed her. For a moment, it looked as if she might draw the blaster at her hip, but she didn't move.
"Get out of my sight," the man said, waving her away. "You stink of fuel. Don't return until you've captured Jaden. I want him alive. He has something that belongs to me."
The Mandalorian hesitated for half a second before turning sharply and walking back inside, the heavy clank of her boots fading as she left.
The man turned back to the balcony, raising his glass again. His grip was tight, his knuckles pale against the glass. He took a long drink before setting it down on the rail and staring out over the city once more. It had taken him longer than he had expected to find the one who stole from him, and even when he did he didn't have much information on him nor did he even know where he had gone. All he had was a picture. To have him show up on Jabiim of all places, and to be masquerading as a Jedi, it was a stroke of luck.
No it was destiny.
Soon he would get back what was rightfully his and then he would fulfil his rightful place in the galaxy.
————————————————————-
After Jaden had brought down the ship in the courtyard of the Jedi Temple, everything afterward felt like a blur. The Jedi Council had pushed to take him into custody—insisting it was "for his own safety"—but Padmé had immediately shut that idea down. Master Fay had also spoken in his defense, pointing out that doubling the security outside Padmé's apartment would be more than sufficient. Jaden had silently thanked her for that. After the day he had the last thing he wanted was to be locked away in some Jedi detention cell. He just wanted to sit back and relax, especially since tomorrow looked to be just as long as today was.
He doubted they would try another attack so soon, especially with the amount of attention their assault had drawn. Coruscant Security would be on high alert now. That bought him at least a little time to rest—though how long that peace would last was anyone's guess.
"I just don't understand how they managed to bypass all the sensors and patrols," Padmé said, pacing the length of her apartment. "Especially with a ship that size."
Jaden sat back on the sofa, listening as she ranted. He had a good idea of how it happened, but he doubted she'd like the answer. Someone on Coruscant—someone with power and connections—wanted him dead. The kind of resources it took to hire a Mandalorian didn't come cheap. Whoever it was, they weren't playing games.
He just hoped things wouldn't spiral even further out of control. Once the trial was over, his fate would be decided. He'd either leave Coruscant and put this nightmare behind him, or—more likely—he'd end up in a penal colony. Execution wasn't off the table either.
Aubrie and the others had been frantic when he finally managed to contact them after the attack. They'd been at the Temple during the explosions, but they hadn't been able to come out and check on him. They'd been stuck in a session with one of the Jedi Mind Healers at the time.
"There's no point worrying about it now," Jaden said, trying to sound more confident than he felt. "Let's just get through the trial tomorrow and then see where we stand." He leaned back against the cushions, resting his hands behind his head.
Padmé let out a long breath, nodding. "You're probably right. After something this big, they'll need time to regroup. At least that means tomorrow should go off without any surprises." She sat down across from him, smoothing out the folds of her dress.
"Do you actually have a plan for tomorrow?" Jaden asked. He hadn't paid much attention to the specifics of his own case. He'd left most of it to Padmé and Aubrie, trusting them to handle it. Still, it seemed smart to know the basics now that the trial was so close.
Padmé raised an eyebrow. "Did Aubrie not share the details with you?"
"I was... busy at the time," Jaden said, which was mostly true.
Padmé gave him a knowing look before smirking and handing him a datapad. "Fine. Here's the opening statement."
Jaden took the datapad and scanned through it. It seemed straightforward enough—nothing flashy or overly complicated. But it also felt a little basic, like it lacked the punch needed to sway the judges.
"This is supposed to convince them?" he asked, raising an eyebrow.
Padmé folded her arms, her expression amused. "Are you doubting my orating skills?"
Jaden hesitated. Insulting his host—and his legal representative—didn't seem like the best idea.
Padmé's smirk widened before she laughed softly. "Relax, Jaden. It's a joke. I know it's not the strongest argument." She took the datapad back and set it aside.
"The truth is, it doesn't matter how compelling I make it," she continued, her tone more serious now. "The prosecution already has the upper hand."
"How?" Jaden asked, frowning.
"Because you're a ghost," she said simply. "There's almost no record of you before you showed up out of nowhere. That's enough to make you look suspicious, especially to a system already on edge."
Jaden nodded. He could see her point. If someone like him had suddenly appeared in his camp back on Jabiim—force-sensitive, mysterious, and with no real past—he wouldn't have trusted them either.
"So what's the plan?" he asked.
Padmé reached for another datapad and handed it to him. This one displayed a long list of names.
"These," she said, "are character witnesses. They're the key to our case."
Jaden scrolled through the list, recognizing several of the names. Admiral Novak was there, along with Aubrie, Master Leska, Zule, Scout, and various officers who had served aboard the Defender.
"You're betting that their testimonies will be enough to sway the judges?"
Padmé nodded. "It's our best shot. No matter how suspicious your lack of a past might look, people are more willing to believe character references than cold facts. If we can get them to vouch for you, the prosecution's case starts to fall apart."
Jaden looked back down at the list. It was a solid plan—probably the only one they had—but without knowing the prosecution's argument, it was impossible to tell if it would hold up. The uncertainty lingered in his mind, and the weight of the upcoming trial settled heavily on his shoulders.
"What do you think the prosecution's case will be?" he asked, breaking the brief silence.
Padmé waved it off casually, though there was a slight edge to her voice. "The usual accusations—that you're dangerous, a flight risk, that you've got a criminal past. Mostly conjecture. They probably won't have any real evidence."
Jaden nodded, though her answer didn't ease his concerns. He'd been accused of worse in his time, but those accusations hadn't come from politicians and Jedi in the heart of the Republic. This wasn't a battlefield or a backroom deal—it was a courtroom, and the rules were different here.
Leaning back, he stretched his arms over the sofa and let out a slow breath. His body still ached from the day's chaos. The bruises and burns had already started to heal—his natural resilience aided by the Force—but they left behind a dull, itchy soreness that refused to fade completely.
Padmé shifted in her seat, her hands resting tensely on her knees. It was clear she had something on her mind. Jaden noticed immediately.
"Is something wrong?" he asked.
She hesitated for a moment, then shook her head and straightened her back. "No, not exactly." Her tone softened. "I just... wanted to thank you. For earlier. For saving Bail and me. If you hadn't been there when the blast went off..." She trailed off, the weight of what could have happened left unspoken.
Jaden met her eyes and offered a small smile. "I couldn't let my representative die before the trial even starts. That'd make for a pretty poor defense."
Padmé let out a short laugh, some of the tension easing from her shoulders. "I suppose not," she said, smiling briefly before pushing herself to her feet.
"I think I'll turn in for the night," she added. "You should do the same. We've got a long day ahead of us tomorrow."
Jaden stood as well, nodding in agreement. "Goodnight, Padmé."
"Goodnight, Jaden."
She left the room, her steps light but purposeful, leaving Jaden alone with his thoughts.
He glanced toward the window, the city lights of Coruscant stretching endlessly into the horizon. Somewhere out there, his enemies were regrouping, planning their next move. He could still feel the echoes of danger through the Force, faint but persistent, like distant thunder.
Tomorrow would decide whether he could discover who they were, or if he'd be killed in a republic jail.
...
The next day arrived faster than Jaden expected. Sleep had been scarce—his mind kept replaying the events of the previous day. The attack, the Mandalorian, the crash. Even meditation hadn't done much to settle his nerves. Now, as he sat in the shuttle headed toward the Senate building, that tension lingered. The interior of the shuttle was sleek, all polished panels and soft seating designed for comfort. Across from him sat Bail Organa, the Senator from Alderaan. Padmé had introduced them earlier, but beyond his name and title, Jaden didn't know much about the man.
Bail sat calmly with his hands clasped in his lap, his formal Alderaanian robes pristine and perfectly tailored. "You look like you're expecting a fight," Bail said, breaking the silence.
Jaden's eyes flicked up. "I don't like feeling boxed in."
Bail nodded, unfazed. "Understandable. The Senate can feel that way even when you're not the one on trial."
Jaden wasn't sure if that was meant to be reassuring. "Guess I'll see for myself soon enough."
"You will." Bail studied him for a moment. "Padmé speaks highly of you."
Jaden raised an eyebrow. "Does she?"
"She does," Bail said. "I am also of the same opinion, you saved us yesterday and that has gone a long way in reaffirming my decision to support you."
Jaden didn't respond to that. He didn't need reassurances from a politician—not now, anyway. Plus he wasn't sure how someone he'd only met a day ago could trust him, they'd never talked before that, he did save her life, but that didn't mean that much, did it?
The shuttle began descending toward the Senate District, and Jaden turned his focus out the viewport. The towers of Coruscant stretched endlessly upward, their shining surfaces reflecting the early morning sun. From up here, the city looked perfect.
He knew better.
Jaden had grown up in Coruscant's undercity, far beneath the pristine towers and Senate chambers. Down there, the light barely reached. This part of the planet felt like a completely different world, and the thought of being judged by people who had probably never set foot below the surface left a bitter taste in his mouth. The shuttle touched down on a secure platform outside the Senate building. The moment the ramp lowered, Jaden was hit by the overwhelming presence of security. Senate Guards in crimson armor stood at attention, flanked by clone troopers in spotless white armor. Patrol droids hovered overhead, scanning the area and sweeping for threats.
It wasn't just security—it was a show of force.
Jaden spotted the floating holo-cams right away, their lenses glowing faintly as they hovered around the landing platform. Holo-feeds were already broadcasting his arrival, projecting his image onto massive screens outside the Senate building.
"Unknown Force-user arrives under heavy guard—Senate hearing draws galactic attention!"
"Terrorist or victim? The trial begins today!"
Jaden resisted the urge to scowl. He followed Bail and Padmé down the ramp, flanked by guards who moved quickly to form a perimeter around them. The holo-cams floated closer, recording their every step.
"Keep your head down and let me handle the press," Padmé muttered as they walked.
Jaden smirked slightly. "Wasn't planning on giving interviews."
"Good," she said without looking at him.
They entered the Senate building through towering durasteel doors that sealed shut behind them. Inside, the entrance hall was just as grand as Jaden expected—marble floors, massive columns, and towering statues of past Chancellors. Protocol droids bustled back and forth, relaying messages between officials and officers. The tension in the air was palpable. Everyone here knew what was happening, and Jaden could feel their eyes on him as they passed.
Padmé stopped near the entrance to the courtroom and turned to Jaden. "We've got a few minutes before it starts. Take a breath. Clear your head."
"Clear my head?" Jaden echoed, crossing his arms.
Padmé gave him a sharp look. "You need to stay focused. The prosecution's going to paint you as dangerous, and the last thing we need is for you to prove them right."
Jaden exhaled through his nose. "I know how to control myself."
"Good," she said.
She stepped aside to speak with Bail and one of the clerks while Jaden shifted a few paces away. He tried to steady his breathing, but the noise and energy in the building weren't helping. The sound of footsteps, voices, and the hum of security droids made it impossible to block out. Bail rejoined him after a few minutes. "Padmé's finishing the paperwork. We'll head in soon." Jaden nodded but kept his eyes on the hallway leading to the courtroom doors. Beyond the windows, he could still see crowds gathered outside.
"Is it always like this?" he asked, gesturing toward the commotion.
Bail followed his gaze. "Not always. But people like a spectacle."
Jaden grunted. "Yeah. I'm starting to notice."
Before Bail could respond, Padmé returned, looking ready. "We're up."
The doors to the courtroom slid open, and Jaden followed them inside.
The chamber was massive—larger than Jaden had expected. Senators, military officers, and officials filled the tiered seating that surrounded the central platform where the trial would take place. At the front, the panel of judges sat behind a raised bench, their faces unreadable. Above, floating holo-cams tracked every movement, broadcasting the proceedings to the galaxy. Jaden took a steadying breath and followed Padmé to the defense table. He sat down beside her, feeling the weight of a hundred eyes fixed on him.
The room fell silent.
The hearing was about to begin.
The three judges entered the chamber once everyone had settled. Jaden sat beside Padmé, who muttered something under her breath. He leaned closer.
"What's wrong?" he asked quietly.
She tilted her head toward the judge on the far left. "Darien Knollback," she said. "He's corrupt. No matter what we present, he'll vote against us."
Jaden kept his voice low. "How does he still hold this position?"
"He has connections," Padmé replied. "He also dislikes me. I've tried to have him removed from office more than once."
Jaden exhaled in a measured way. "Understood."
Padmé straightened her back. "Don't worry. The other two—Judge Palon Trevix in the middle and Judge Nema Velle on the right—aren't known for bias. Trevix can be strict, but he usually follows the law. Velle is fair."
A protocol droid at the front of the room began reciting the case details, citing Republic codes. It reminded everyone this pre-trial would decide if Jaden could remain free on Coruscant until his official trial or if he should be placed in a detention cell. The droid listed the charges, named each side, and stated courtroom protocols.
Clerks circled the perimeter, checking the holo-recorders. A court official at a podium confirmed and summarized the accusations against Jaden: his unclear background, possible link to recent unrest, and questions about his threat level. When the protocol droid finished, the lead clerk instructed everyone to rise. Judges Trevix, Velle, and Knollback acknowledged the courtroom. Then the audience was told to be seated. Hovering holo-cams focused on the bench, and Trevix announced the start of proceedings.
Jaden watched as the prosecution took its place. Padmé's expression hardened.
"What now?" Jaden asked quietly.
She gestured to the lead prosecutor. "Collan Eislo. He pretended to offer me help before all this. Now he's heading the case against you."
Jaden glanced at Eislo. "So why did he visit you?"
Padmé shook her head. "He must've wanted something, I'm not sure what though."
"I guess we will find out soon," Jaden said as he turned his attention back to the judges.
The judges consulted with both the prosecution and defense, asking if everyone was prepared to proceed. Padmé nodded briefly, but before she could speak further, one of her aides hurried over. Leaning in, the aide whispered something that made Padmé's eyes widen.
"Are you sure?" she asked, keeping her voice low. "That can't be accurate. Try to reach them again."
She turned to Jaden, her expression tense. "Our witnesses... none of them have arrived."
Jaden's brow furrowed. "That's not like them. Aubrie, Zule, Scout, and Master Leska would've come without question. Admiral Novak and the rest of the officers, too. If they're not here, something's off."
Padmé clenched her jaw and glanced toward the other side of the courtroom. There, Collan Eislo sat calmly, arms folded, a slight smirk tugging at his lips.
"That bantha slime," Padmé muttered. "He must have done something with our list of witnesses. This isn't a formal trial, so the court can't force them to appear. If they've been 'detained' or otherwise kept away, we have no legal recourse."
Jaden studied Eislo from across the chamber. "He did offer to 'help' you before all this started. Maybe that was just his way of getting information."
Padmé's eyes narrowed. "I never let that datapad out of my sight... or so I thought. He must have found a way around it, or he's been working with someone on my staff. Either way, this is no coincidence." She took a breath and tried to refocus. The judges were waiting, and the hearing couldn't be delayed just because their witnesses were missing.
Jaden glanced at her. "Any backups?"
Padmé shook her head. "We called in all the people who could speak about your character—those who saw you fight to protect others on Jabiim or served with you on the Defender. No one else knows enough to be credible. Without them, the prosecution can paint you however they want."
Jaden shifted his gaze back to Eislo, who was still watching them. "He's expecting us to panic. That's why he's smiling."
Padmé's lips pressed into a thin line. "Let him think we're panicking. For now, we'll proceed. I'll request a recess to confirm their whereabouts, and we'll see if we can locate at least a few of them in time."
One of the judges, Trevix, cleared his throat and glanced at the defense table. "Is the defense ready to proceed?"
Padmé stood, keeping her posture straight. "Your honors, I have just received urgent information regarding the absence of our key witnesses. I respectfully request a brief recess to verify their whereabouts and ensure all necessary evidence is available."
Before she could say anything more, Knollback leaned forward, his expression dismissive. "Request denied. The defense is expected to be prepared. We will not delay these proceedings."
Velle frowned. "Knollback, perhaps we should at least hear why—"
Knollback shook his head. "We do not need lengthy explanations. The session has already started."
Trevix raised a brow at Knollback, then turned to Padmé. "I'm sorry, Senator, but without a unanimous decision among us, we cannot grant your request. We'll have to move forward."
Padmé pursed her lips and sat down, saying nothing further. Jaden stayed focused beside her, offering a slight nod in acknowledgment.
Trevix looked to the prosecution. "Very well, Mr. Eislo, please give your opening statement."
Collan Eislo stood, smoothing the front of his robes. He offered a quick bow to the judges, then faced the audience. His voice rang out clearly. "Your honors, members of the court, and citizens watching through the Holonet—I stand before you to address the serious threat posed by the individual known as Jaden."
He paused, letting silence settle over the room. "This man has been linked to the deaths of two Jedi Knights—deaths he caused in cold blood. After taking their lives, he stole their robes and lightsabers, posing as a member of the Order. He used that disguise to walk among us and deceive those who guard our Republic."
Murmurs rippled through the audience. Eislo continued, "We know he was present on Jabiim, where the Jedi suffered major losses. It is not unreasonable to suspect he played a part in those deaths—manipulating events from within rather than outright attacking. The Sith, as many of you are aware, are known to excel at infiltration and mind control, the Separatist leader Count Dooku is a testament to this, he was once a Jedi Master yet now he works to bring the Republic low. Without verified records of Jaden's background, how can we be certain he is not equally skilled in these arts?"
He scanned the chamber. "Imagine the danger if someone with that potential is allowed to roam freely on Coruscant. We have no documentation confirming his history, only whispers of his true identity. He appears from nowhere, claims he fought on our side, but everything about him raises questions."
Turning back to the judges, Eislo said, "For the security of our citizens, for the stability of the Republic, and to preserve faith in our institutions, I urge this court to deny him release before his formal trial. He is too dangerous to be allowed out of custody. Justice must be served, and our people must remain safe."
He lowered his voice. "Your honors, that concludes my opening statement."
A wave of applause arose from certain seats in the gallery, while others remained silent. Trevix gave a tap of his gavel, and the room settled once again.
Padmé sat quietly through Eislo's opening statement, a sharp look in her eyes as he wove his accusations. She couldn't interrupt him—not during an opening statement—so she waited until Trevix called on her to present her own case.
Rising from her seat, Padmé took a breath and addressed the room. "Honorable judges, members of this court, and citizens watching. Jaden has been painted as a ruthless killer with no place in our society. Yet those who have witnessed his actions—real people whose lives he has saved—tell a different story."
She paused, letting her words settle. "We have over ten thousand Jabiimi on the Defender who owe their lives to Jaden's intervention. Many of these citizens were trapped behind enemy lines when the Separatists unleashed devastating attacks. Jaden chose to stand with them, providing cover during evacuations, guiding them through hazardous terrain, and ensuring they reached safety."
She then lifted her chin, her tone growing more resolute. "And that is not the full extent of his contributions. Jaden stopped a Separatist superweapon that would have destabilized the planet's core, resulting in the deaths of billions. This is documented in the reports of both Jedi Master Leska and Admiral Novak."
Knollback cut in abruptly, leaning forward. "Superweapon, you say? That's quite a claim?"
Padmé turned, addressing him calmly. "Yes, Judge Knollback. Both reports describe a device engineered to destabilize Jabiim's planetary core. The Republic's own analysts deemed it a threat capable of catastrophic damage." She rested a hand on the datapad before her. "I intend to introduce these reports as evidence, where you'll find the technical data supporting this claim."
Knollback sank back in his seat, silent. Trevix and Velle exchanged annoyed looks—interrupting an opening statement was not standard procedure.
Padmé cleared her throat and continued. "Jaden didn't need to be here today. He could have fled at any point during his journey to Coruscant, but he chose to come regardless of the danger to himself. This fact alone speaks to his sense of responsibility. It's the opposite of what a flight risk would do, and it contradicts the accusations made against him."
She spread her hands. "There is no solid evidence to support the claims that he killed Jedi for their lightsabers or manipulated the events on Jabiim. On the contrary, every legitimate source we have supports the account of him risking his life to protect others."
Glancing around the courtroom, she finished, "I ask this court to allow Jaden the freedom to remain outside a cell until his formal trial. His record of assistance to the Republic, his willingness to face these charges openly, and the lack of genuine proof against him all make one point clear: he is not the danger the prosecution claims."
She offered a slight bow toward the bench. "Thank you, your honors."
A subdued murmur rippled through the audience, some clearly considering Padmé's words, others still skeptical. Trevix tapped his gavel lightly to restore silence. The prosecution spent the better part of the next hour laying out its case, bringing up Jaden's mysterious background, the weapons he'd taken, and the potential danger of his alleged Force abilities. Padmé raised objections where allowed—citing lack of evidence or irrelevance whenever they overreached—but the judges, especially Knollback, dismissed most of her concerns as procedural matters, letting Eislo continue.
Eventually, Eislo moved on to what he called "character witnesses." Several Jedi Masters took the stand. Eeth Koth expressed anger over Jaden's actions and the disrespect shown to fallen Jedi by taking their lightsabers. Adi Gallia voiced alarm at Jaden's Force readings, pointing out that his nonexistent midichlorian count made him an anomaly they'd never seen in the Order.
Padmé stood. "Your honors, I request the right to cross-examine these statements."
Knollback leaned forward. "These individuals are here purely as character witnesses, not to present direct evidence. Their testimonies are opinions, not subject to cross-examination."
Padmé's jaw tightened, but she sat down without argument. She knew this was a deliberate move to block her from challenging the Jedi Masters' statements.
After the last of the prosecution's witnesses stepped away, Trevix tapped a button on his console. "We will now hear from the defense. Please call your witnesses."
Padmé froze for a moment, scanning the empty gallery seats that should have held Aubrie, Zule, Scout, Leska, Admiral Novak, and the rest of the officers. There was no sign of them. She glanced at Jaden, then stood, trying to maintain her composure.
"I... Your honors, the defense currently has no one to call," she said, her words tense and clipped. "Unfortunately, those who intended to testify are... not present."
A wave of hushed conversation spread through the spectators. Padmé closed her eyes briefly, steeling herself. "Without their statements, I have no additional evidence to present at this time."
Velle began to say something, but the doors at the rear of the courtroom suddenly slid open. Heads turned as Master Fay entered, followed by three other Jedi Masters—Plo Koon, Shaak Ti, and Even Piell. Jaden inhaled sharply at the sight of them. He recognized Master Fay immediately, though he hadn't expected her to show up with so many Masters from the Jedi Council. Especially not after the way things had ended when he had left yesterday.
Trevix looked up. "Who are these individuals?"
Stepping forward, Master Fay offered a polite bow. "We've come to testify on behalf of the defence."
Even Piell nodded silently. Plo Koon's distinctive mask turned slightly in Padmé's direction, and Shaak Ti folded her hands in front of her. Padmé stared, relief clear on her face.
The courtroom hummed with tension as Master Fay, Plo Koon, Shaak Ti, and Even Piell approached the bench. Padmé stood at the defense table, relief clear in her eyes. The sudden arrival of these Jedi Masters had disrupted the neat plan the prosecution, led by Collan Eislo, had put in place. Knollback, seated on the far left, showed his displeasure. He leaned forward and slammed his hand on the console in front of him. "These witnesses were not announced beforehand," he said, his voice edged with anger. "The defense already stated they had no one else to call. We're too far along in this proceeding to allow last-minute additions."
From the other side of the bench, Velle cleared her throat. "Judge Knollback, this is not a formal trial. The rules here are looser, and evidence or testimony may be introduced at any point if it helps us determine whether the defendant poses a threat to Coruscant."
Trevix inclined his head in agreement. "Precisely. This is a pre-trial hearing designed to evaluate whether Jaden should be confined or allowed to move freely. In such proceedings, we have the discretion to accept relevant testimony."
Knollback's eyes flicked from one colleague to the other. It was clear he was outnumbered. Collan Eislo, seated at the prosecution's table, stood up abruptly. "I object. The defense already admitted they had no witnesses. These new arrivals can hardly be considered a legitimate addition when we're on the verge of concluding this matter."
Trevix answered Eislo with a sharp look. "Objection overruled. As Judge Velle stated, this is not a formal trial, and there is no set time limit for introducing relevant information. If they are indeed Jedi Masters who can speak to Jaden's character, we will hear them."
Eislo sat down, his lips pressed in a thin line. Knollback exhaled audibly but did not protest further. The protocol droid stationed near the bench pivoted in place and gestured for the newcomers to make their statements. Padmé stepped forward, speaking with renewed confidence. "Your honors, the defense calls Master Fay as our first witness."
Master Fay approached the front, her poise drawing everyone's attention. She was a tall, graceful figure, her pale skin and flowing robes giving her an otherworldly air. A few in the audience seemed taken aback: many had heard of her legendary status but had rarely seen her in person. Small whispers spread through the crowd—her name was known even beyond Jedi circles, despite her tendency to remain distant from the Temple.
Trevix beckoned her. "Master Fay, you may speak."
She offered a respectful bow. "Thank you. My name is Fay, and I have been a Jedi for many decades. I've traveled the galaxy, often independently, aiding those in need. Until recently, I had not returned to the Temple in quite some time. However, yesterday I witnessed an incident that compelled me to speak on Jaden's behalf."
She turned her gaze to Jaden. "While at the Jedi Temple, I saw firsthand how Jaden protected Lady Amidala and Senator Organa from a sudden and violent attack. He had no weapon of his own. Despite that, he acted swiftly and pulled them out of harm's way. If not for him, they would have been killed."
There was a murmur among the spectators, and more than a few began to whisper about the assault on the Temple courtyard. Many knew bits and pieces from news holos, but hearing a Jedi Master confirm Jaden's role in saving two prominent people carried weight.
Fay continued, "I have wandered many parts of the galaxy for over a century, following the Force. I returned because I believed it guided me to Jaden. In the short time I've known him, I've seen selflessness rather than malice. I have no doubt in my mind that he is not evil."
A flicker of awe passed through portions of the crowd. Even Piell, standing off to the side, wore a careful, thoughtful expression. Plo Koon and Shaak Ti watched silently while Fay finished her statement. Some onlookers focused more on Madte Fay than what she was saying, they spoke of rumors that she was nearly immortal and had witnessed events predating many living Jedi.
When she stepped back, Padmé introduced the next witness. "The defense calls Master Plo Koon."
Plo Koon approached, the mechanical hiss of his breath mask echoing softly in the otherwise quiet chamber. "Yesterday, the Jedi Council met with Jaden, albeit briefly," he said. His modulated voice carried through the hall. "He was not treated with trust or kindness, yet I sensed no darkness from him. I did not detect the presence of a Sith or someone motivated by cruelty. If anything, he seemed more wary than malevolent."
Knollback shifted in his seat, looking distinctly annoyed, but said nothing.
Next, Padmé turned to Shaak Ti, who lowered her hood slightly as she stepped forward. "I am Master Shaak Ti," she said, her calm voice resonating in the stillness. "While Jadens meeting with the council was not the best he gave us no real reason to believe he was an enemy. I also reviewed a set of medical records that described him using Force abilities to heal wounded soldiers, sometimes dozens at a time. This level of healing is exceptionally rare and not easily taught."
She paused, letting that fact sink in. "Healing on that scale is typically aligned with the light. Someone who can channel that power to help others does not strike me as a dangerous individual bent on destruction."
Finally, Even Piell stepped up. His small stature did nothing to diminish the steely resolve in his gaze. "I am Even Piell. I have been on the Council for many years. Yesterday, I observed Jaden at the Temple and sensed he carried resentment toward the Jedi Order. But resentment is not a crime. Disagreement with our ways does not make one evil or a threat. Judging him guilty because he does not approve of certain Jedi actions is shortsighted."
With that, Piell gave a slight bow and stepped back. Padmé took the floor again, addressing the bench. "Your honors, these testimonies speak to Jaden's character and actions. None of this is hearsay or vague rumor; these are reputable Jedi Masters who have fought in the Clone Wars, served the Republic, and dedicated themselves to the light side of the Force. They have no reason to lie, and every reason to protect our people from a real threat if they believed Jaden was one. I ask this court to grant Jaden freedom of movement while he awaits his formal trial."
Trevix and Velle exchanged a glance. Knollback drummed his fingers on the armrest, looking distinctly displeased. Trevix spoke first. "The court will take a brief recess to deliberate. We thank the defense for providing these additional witnesses."
Velle nodded. "We will return shortly with our decision."
Knollback stood abruptly, muttering under his breath. He followed the others out, disappearing through a side door. As soon as the judges were gone, Collan Eislo slammed a folder shut, his frustration evident. Even though the noise was small, it drew more than a few looks.
Padmé exhaled, then turned to the Jedi Masters. "Thank you all for coming. You arrived at just the right time."
Jaden also stepped forward, dipping his head in genuine appreciation. "Thank you I wasn't sure anyone would stand up for me, let alone Council members."
Plo Koon gave him a respectful nod. "I do not believe you are a danger. My disagreements with your views on the Jedi are minor."
Even Piell shrugged slightly. "You're free to dislike the Jedi. Debate is the foundation of change."
Shaak Ti inclined her head gracefully. "Healing is a talent rooted in light. To heal hundreds as you did on Jabiim is a sign of compassion. That convinced me more than any statement could."
Finally, Master Fay stepped closer, offering a small, warm smile. "I told you not all Jedi were bad, Jaden."
Jaden returned a faint smile. "I stand corrected. Thanks again."
Padmé bowed lightly to each Master in turn. "Yes, thank you again."
Eislo sat across the room, his eyes flicking from the group of Jedi back to the door through which the judges had exited. He was clearly furious. His earlier smirk had vanished, replaced by a clenched jaw and a glare that could have melted durasteel. He had spent considerable resources ensuring Admiral Novak, the other officers, and the Padawans were unavailable. Yet here were four Jedi Masters whose statements had turned the hearing around.
Moments later, the judges returned. Trevix stepped up to the bench and pressed a small control on the desk to open the mic. "After reviewing the evidence and testimonies, we have reached a decision. This court finds that Jaden does not present sufficient risk to justify confinement at this time. We grant him freedom of movement throughout Coruscant until his formal trial. He must, however, stay with us current host until the trial is over and wear a tracking device for the duration of these proceedings."
There was a wave of chatter in the gallery. Padmé released a breath she seemed to have been holding. Jaden remained steady, absorbing the verdict without outward show of emotion. Velle tapped a small mallet against the podium. "That concludes this hearing."
In that instant, with the judges' final strike of the gavel, something happened. Padmé stood next to Jaden, smiling in relief—yet the next moment, she staggered, clutching her abdomen. A sharp intake of breath escaped her lips. Her eyes went wide, and then blood blossomed on her side, staining her dress. It happened so quickly that it seemed almost like a trick of the light.
Panic flared among those nearby. Jaden immediately caught Padmé, preventing her from collapsing. Across the aisle, Collan Eislo made the slightest movement in his seat. His gaze met Jaden's for a split second, and a faint smile curved across his face before he schooled his expression into one of feigned shock.
"Padmé!" Jaden snapped, pressing a hand to her wound. The blade must have pierced her side in a way that the untrained eye couldn't see.
People rushed forward—guards, onlookers, and the Jedi Masters. Amid the confusion, Jaden called upon the Force. Warmth radiated from his palm, and he focused, letting the Force flow through him. Master Fay, Plo Koon, Shaak Ti, and Even Piell surrounded them, ready to assist. Yet they sensed Jaden's hold on the Force and gave him space. Within moments, Padmé's breathing steadied. The color returned to her face. She blinked in confusion, her hand still resting on the spot where the blade had struck. "What... what happened?"
Jaden gently pulled her hand away from her dress. The blood remained, but the flow had stopped, and the wound looked sealed—still tender, but closed. Padmé stared, disbelief plain on her features. Her eyes darted around, as though trying to piece together what just took place.
Meanwhile, Eislo sat very still. If anyone noticed how his posture relaxed or the cold glint in his eyes, they gave no sign. Guards were converging on them all, but none seemed certain what had just transpired. There was no visible attacker, no commotion to hint at how Padmé had been hurt. The entire event had taken seconds.
"Someone stabbed me?" Padmé managed,
Jaden gave her a firm look. "I don't know, but you're going to be fine." He carefully helped her to her feet. Officers rushed in, demanding answers, but the room erupted into an uproar. Some checked to see if there was a hidden assailant; others tried to calm the crowd. Trevix rose from the bench, his voice carrying over the cacophony. "Order! Clear the courtroom! This session is concluded. Medical assistance is en route." He eyed Padmé with concern. "Lady Amidala, are you able to stand?"
Padmé nodded, still disoriented, and clutched Jaden's arm for balance. "Yes... I think so. Jaden healed me."
Knollback looked furious at the turmoil, but he said nothing, stepping around the bench to confer with Velle and Trevix. Collan Eislo remained seated, expression carefully schooled to mild concern, though the faint curl at the corner of his mouth did not go unnoticed by Jaden.
As security and medical droids poured into the chamber, Master Fay turned to Jaden, her voice low. "We'll find out who did this. In the meantime, stay close to her."
Jaden gave a single nod and gently guided Padmé away from the center of the room. Guards and medics parted to let them pass. The media drones that had been capturing the hearing now hovered at a distance, uncertain whether to record the turmoil or switch off.
Padmé clung to Jaden's arm, her face still pale. "Thank you," she whispered, her eyes flicking to his. "I... I don't remember anyone coming near me."
Jaden's jaw tightened. "We'll figure it out. Let's get you to a medical station first."
A pair of medics arrived, helping Padmé onto a hover stretcher. She winced but remained composed as they checked her vital signs. Jaden stepped aside only briefly, moving with her until they exited the main chamber. In that moment, he shot a glance back toward Eislo, who looked in their direction one last time, his expression an inscrutable mask.
(AN: So the trial is over and Jaden is free. So what is next for our hero. Well he still has the main trial but that's later on for now we have my least favourite thing. Character development. I say that but honestly I've been wanting to do this for a while. Jaden is a pretty bland character right? Well there's a reason for that. Don't you think it's strange he has no ambition whatsoever. Anyway I hope you enjoyed the chapter.)
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