A Favor

In a dark, silent room aboard the Infinity, the figures of Arnet, Colonel Holland, Captain Jacob Keyes, and Admiral Prestone Cole stood in front of a holotable. On it, a recording of Noble 6 played back a brutal interrogation. The atmosphere was tense, charged with the discomfort of what they were witnessing. The room seemed freezing, not because of the temperature, but because of the coldness emanating from the events unfolding on the screen.

In the video, Bec Lawise, bloodied and panting, was strapped to a metal chair. Noble 6, imposing in his night-black armor, stood silently before him, his voice modulated and neutral when he finally spoke.

"We know you know, Lawise. The factories, the accounts, the hidden resources. You have two choices: talk or... get on with it." His tone was clinical, almost devoid of humanity.

The senator tried to resist, mumbling disjointed phrases about his rights and how the Republic would never allow this to happen. But all that fell apart when Noble 6 pressed a button, activating a device that sent an electric shock through Lawise's shackles. The senator's scream resonated on the recording, an echo that lingered in the room as everyone watched in silence.

"Restarting your stabilization," the voice of Delta, the base's AI, announced on the video. A robotic medical team moved in the periphery, injecting biofoam into the senator's wounds to keep him conscious. "Patient stabilized. You may continue."

Holland looked away for a moment, but Cole and Keyes remained stoic. Arnet, arms crossed, did not blink as the scenes continued. Lawise, now shaking, panted before mumbling words that grew in coherence.

"The factories… are in the outer rings… hidden systems… passwords on Dooku's accounts… are… are… on the main server… connected to Lothal…" His voice was broken, but the words clear.

Noble 6 showed no apparent reaction. He only leaned forward slightly. "Exact coordinates. All accounts. Everything you know."

The senator began to talk nonstop, revealing not only the locations of the droid factories, but also safe routes, access codes, and the bank accounts that held the Confederacy's riches. It was a gold mine for any military operation, a resource that could change the course of the war. For now.

In the Infinity's darkened room, Arnet, Holland, Keyes, and Cole stood silently after the video concluded. The revelations were immense: operational droid factories on the planet Lothal, secure routes and passwords to secret accounts filled with the resources amassed by Dooku and the Confederacy. The magnitude of what they had just obtained could change the fate of the UNSC, but it also put them in a delicate political position.

Keyes was the first to break the silence. "If those factories are actually operational, we can use them to relieve the pressure on our troops. Soldiers are worn out, resources are disappearing, and our current factories can barely keep up with the war. But with Lothal… we could reconfigure those facilities to build support units. Combat drones, automated logistics, even battlefield reinforcements while we recruit more personnel."

Cole nodded gravely, crossing his arms. "And not only that. Those accounts of Dooku's can sustain our operations not for months, but for years. Paying off troops, rebuilding, repairing damaged ships... Everything we need to keep fighting is at our fingertips. But you know this is going to make waves in the Republic. If they ever find out we're taking Lothal, they're going to demand that everything be taken over by them. Or worse, they're going to try to stop us."

Holland let out a tired sigh. "The Republic can't afford to lose any more ships or troops, but they don't want the UNSC to get too strong either. We're already in a precarious political position after Tatooine. This won't be easy to justify."

Arnet finally spoke, his voice low and heavy with determination. "We are not in this war to satisfy the whims of the Senate. Lothal is our next step. Those factories will not be used to create droids that will remain under the control of useless politicians. They will be reconfigured and optimized to serve the UNSC. Combat drones, vehicles, ships, whatever it takes to keep us in this fight."

Keyes interrupted him gently. "And Dooku's accounts? The Republic could claim those credits as their own. If they decide to move something in the Senate, it could put even more strain on our relationship with them."

Arnet looked at him, his eyes fixed. "If you think I'm going to hand over those resources, you're wrong. Those credits aren't going to fund the inefficiency of the clones or the selfishness of their leaders. They're going to fund the war that really matters: the war against the Covenant. We will repair our ships, pay our troops, build more bases, and strengthen our defenses. And if the Republic doesn't agree, let them complain. We're not going to wait for their permission."

Revelations about the factories operating on Lothal and Dooku's hidden resources were turning the situation upside down. However, before any move could be made, the strategy required clarity.

"Serina," Arnet said, breaking the silence. "I need a full report on Lothal. What do we know about the planet and its current situation?"

The AI ​​emerged on the holotable, its serene face contrasting with the palpable tension in the room. "Lothal is an agricultural-industrial planet in the Outer Rim, officially allied to the Republic. However, according to the most recent reports, it has faced internal problems. Insecurity has increased due to the lack of military presence, and civil protests over the Republic's inability to protect them are constant. If the factories are really there, it is likely that their leader, a local governor, is looking for more effective allies."

Keyes nodded slowly. "That means we do not need a hostile approach. If they are unhappy with the Republic, we could use this to our advantage. Offering them security, support, and a solution to their insecurity problem could open doors for us."

Cole, who had been watching silently, intervened. "The only risk is that the Republic has eyes on Lothal as well. If we move too quickly, they might see it as meddling. We must do so diplomatically, showing that our interest is both strategic and humane."

Arnet crossed his arms, his face cold but calculating. "Then we negotiate. If Lothal is at a critical point, their leader will want what is best for their people. If we handle it well, we could make them a crucial ally. We don't need to displace the Republic, just show that we are the best option for their defense."

Holland added, "That means we must send a team with a clear message. Security, stability, and cooperation. No unnecessary military movements that might alarm them or the Republic."

Arnet nodded decisively. "Fine, let's form a negotiation team. Prepare a message for the local governor. We want to make it clear that we are not here to take anything by force, but to establish a mutually beneficial agreement. If we can secure those factories and resources without firing a shot, it will be one more step towards strengthening ourselves in this war."

Serina spoke once more. "I suggest sending a small delegation, led by someone who can speak both strategy and trust. Perhaps a combination of a Spartan and a diplomat from our fleet?"

Arnet smiled faintly. "I have someone in mind. Make sure we're ready to depart for Lothal as soon as possible. The war won't wait, and neither will we."

-x.X.x-

Two days had passed since the chaotic evacuation of Tatooine. At the main UNSC base on the moon of Naboo, the atmosphere was still filled with a sense of hopelessness. Tents covered vast areas, and refugees made do as they could while medical teams tended to the most critically ill. The wounded in more stable condition had been taken to the planet Naboo, where Queen Amidala welcomed them with open arms. However, amidst the bustle of doctors, soldiers, and civilians, a ship from Naboo landed on the landing platform.

From that ship emerged Duchess Satine Kryze, her face marked by a mixture of anguish and determination. The news of what had happened to her sister, Bo-Katan, had reached her ears, and without wasting any time, Satine set out on the journey. Despite the tensions between their divergent paths, Bo-Katan was still her sister, and the gravity of her condition broke through any emotional walls Satine had built.

As she advanced escorted by a group of ODSTs and Mandalorians who had remained loyal to her cause, the Duchess observed the base in detail. The metallic, functional structures of the UNSC contrasted with the traditional architecture of Naboo. At every turn, she saw tents packed with refugees; children with vacant looks, mothers trying to calm their little ones, and elderly people who could barely stand. The whole place was permeated with chaos, suffering, and frantic activity.

In the distance, the constant sound of hydraulic hammers and heavy machinery echoed, evidencing the incessant construction and repair of the base. Satine noticed how exhausted and dirty UNSC soldiers carried boxes of supplies and tended to the refugees, while medics, both human and droid, worked tirelessly in makeshift medical stations.

One of the ODSTs, a tall soldier with his helmet under his arm, turned to her as they moved forward. "Ma'am, the main medical wing is ahead. Your sister is being treated, but… I want you to be prepared. Her condition is critical."

Satine nodded, her lips pressing tightly together as she tried to contain her worry. As she passed an open tent, her eyes met with a group of wounded UNSC soldiers and civilians sharing space. The sight reminded her of the aftermath of the loss of Mandalore, where she had seen similar scenes: warriors covered in bloody bandages and vacant stares, their bodies broken, but still with the fire of battle burning in their hearts.

"All of this… reminds me of what we suffered on Mandalore," Satine murmured, more to herself than to her escorts. "So much destruction, so much loss… and yet we still push on, only to face new tragedies."

The ODST didn't answer, respecting her silence as he led her toward the main medical wing. When they finally arrived, the atmosphere changed abruptly. The room was filled with beds lined up, each one containing patients in critical condition. Monitors beeped constantly, and the air was filled with the faint smell of disinfectant and burning. UNSC doctors and nurses moved with precision, tending to the most critically ill while medical droids provided assistance.

Satine stopped at the foot of a bed where Bo-Katan lay motionless. Her armor had been removed, and her body was covered in bandages and hooked up to various medical devices. Her face was pale, with fresh scars and burns visible on her arms and neck. She was breathing heavily, assisted by a respirator that emitted a constant, mechanical sound.

"Bo..." Satine whispered, approaching carefully. Her heart sank at the sight of her sister in such a state, someone who had always been a symbol of strength and rebellion.

A UNSC medic approached. "Duchess, her condition is serious but stable for now. She received multiple internal injuries and burns during the battle. She is sedated to prevent pain and allow her body to recover."

Satine nodded, her eyes fixed on Bo-Katan. "Thank you... thank you for taking care of her."

The medic made a nod of respect before retreating, leaving the sisters alone for a moment. Satine took Bo-Katan's cold hand, her own fingers shaking. "I know we haven't always seen eye to eye, but... don't you dare leave me now. Mandalore still needs you... I need you."

Memories of their childhood together flooded her mind, and a silent tear fell down her cheek as she continued to speak quietly. "I promise I will do everything I can to keep you safe. Whatever it takes."

In the distance, the noises of the base continued, but to Satine, it all took a backseat as she clung to the hope that her sister would survive this new tragedy.

Satine stood motionless by her sister's bedside, gently holding Bo-Katan's hand, as the faint beeping of the monitor filled the silence. Her thoughts were caught up in memories of her childhood, of a simpler time, when Mandalore was not fractured by war and chaos. It was then that she felt a firm hand on her shoulder. She turned slowly to find Admiral Arnet, his face marked by seriousness and exhaustion, but with a look that showed empathy.

"Duchess Kryze," Arnet said, his voice low but firm. "I am deeply sorry for what has happened to your sister. We will do everything we can to ensure she receives the best medical care."

Satine nodded, her face reflecting gratitude mixed with sadness. "Thank you, Admiral. Your help has been invaluable, though…"

For a moment, silence filled the space between them, until Satine spoke again, with a slight, melancholic smile. "You know, Admiral, when Bo-Katan was a child, she used to constantly defy me. One time, she crashed our mother's council while they were trying to settle a political dispute. At barely eight years old, she stormed into the room demanding to be given a lightsaber to 'fight for Mandalore'. Everyone was stunned, but I knew that was my sister. Brave, defiant... always willing to fight, even when it wasn't necessary."

Arnet, though serious, allowed a slight smile to appear on his face. "Your sister sounds like someone determined. Perhaps that same stubbornness is what will keep her alive now."

Satine let out a slight sigh and looked at her sister, still unconscious. "I hope so, Admiral. I hope so."

Arnet paused before continuing, his tone changing to a more formal and direct one. "Duchess, I am sorry to have to mention it at this time, but there is something else I must discuss with you. I have been thinking about who might represent us in an important negotiation, and your arrival has offered me a unique opportunity."

Satine looked up, curious but alert. "What are you talking about?"

"Lothal," Arnet replied, crossing her arms. "It is a planet under the influence of the Republic, but lately it has shown signs of dissatisfaction with its current situation. Protests, insecurity, lack of military support… it is an opportunity we cannot ignore. We need to negotiate a treaty with them, and I believe you would be the right person to do so."

Satine frowned, processing the proposal. "Why me? I am not part of your UNSC, nor do I have any reason to serve you."

Arnet bowed his head slightly, acknowledging her point. "I understand your stance, but consider this: you are a well-known figure in the galaxy. A leader who has proven herself reasonable and with a reputation for integrity. Your presence at these negotiations would make Lothal more confident in our intentions. And of course, your sister will continue to receive all the medical care she needs here, with our best resources."

Satine narrowed her eyes, trying to discern whether this was manipulation or a genuine opportunity. "Is this an attempt at blackmail, Admiral?"

"Not at all," Arnet replied, frankly. "It is a proposal. You may decline it, and your sister will still be treated with the same care. But if you accept, it will be a mutual benefit. Your leadership and experience in diplomacy could make the difference in a negotiation that allows us to strengthen our position and ultimately face the Covenant with more resources and allies."

Satine looked down at Bo-Katan, still motionless in her bed. Her thoughts were torn between her duty to Mandalore and her desire to ensure her sister had a real chance at recovery. Finally, she looked up at Arnet, her face set in a decision.

"Alright, Admiral. I will go to Lothal and negotiate on behalf of the UNSC. But I warn you, I will not betray my principles. I am not one to make deals that compromise the freedom of others."

"That is all I was hoping to hear, Duchess," Arnet said, bowing his head slightly in a gesture of respect. "I will provide you with all the necessary details and a support team. I trust that you will accomplish far more than we could alone."

End of Chapter 31.