The Death of Hope

8

“Alani is in contact with Balog,” Eritha continued. The words now tumbled out of her. “I heard her speaking to him on a comlink. I couldn’t tell where he was, or where he was headed. Tahl is alive, but he’s keeping her contained in that horrible device.”

Tahl is alive. Obi-Wan saw the relief transform Qui-Gon’s face before his Master turned his full attention back to Eritha again.

“Do you see what this means?” Eritha cried. She twisted her hands together. “Alani must have lied to me all along! She convinced me that Roan was behind our father’s death. And I’m sure that she engineered our own kidnapping.” She went on angrily. “No wonder she was so strong during the ordeal. After we were released, I was afraid they were tracking us to kill us. She kept telling me not to be afraid, not to worry….” Eritha’s voice was full of disgust. “I thought she was so brave. And Roan—could she have arranged to kill Roan? I can’t believe that! He was so kind to us. He was our father’s best friend!”

“What is her goal?” Obi-Wan asked.

“Power. She wants to rule New Apsolon.” Eritha shook her head. “At least that’s what I think they are planning. Balog will back her along with the Absolutes. I can’t believe what I’m saying. I can’t believe I never knew my sister. I’m so ashamed.”

“But you didn’t do anything wrong,” Obi-Wan said.

“Don’t you understand? She is part of me. I should have known.”

Eritha’s gaze was bleak.

“Are you sure she gave no clues to Balog’s whereabouts?” Qui-Gon asked urgently.

Eritha sighed woefully. “I’m sorry. I overheard the conversation, but they never mentioned where he was.”

“Thank you for coming and telling us this,” Qui-Gon said. “You risked much. Now you must return.”

“I’m not going back.” Eritha’s jaw set stubbornly, removing the softness that distinguished her from her more dynamic and electric sister.

“I am sorry,” Qui-Gon said firmly, “but you must. Obi-Wan and I are going ahead. It will be dangerous.”

“I don’t care. My sister has shamed my planet. I must restore my family’s honor. She is a Worker and has betrayed the Workers by making an alliance with the Absolutes. Do you see what this means? She thinks that because of who her father is, the Workers will accept her without question. Even as we speak she is maneuvering to get the United Legislature to appoint her as Supreme Governor. I know how she is doing it, too—I know her. She won’t ask, she won’t suggest. She’ll be sweet and modest. Somehow those high up in the Legislature will think they came up with the idea on their own. Just as she once made me believe that Roan was involved in Ewane’s death. Of course the Workers will support her—she is a heroine, for surviving our father’s death.

“Once appointed, she will bring back the Absolutes and slowly restore the government to what it was. The Workers will be trampled. No.” Eritha crossed her arms. “I will not return. My dead father is at my shoulder. He sacrificed too much. I am coming with you.”

“Eritha, we think Balog is probably heading to his supporters. You are not trained for battle,” Obi-Wan said.

“Oh, but I am.” Eritha drew back her cloak, exposing the blasters and explosive devices on her belt. “I have excellent aim.”

“I admire your dedication,” Qui-Gon said. “However—”

“Tahl was a great friend to me when I needed one,” Eritha said, staring Qui-Gon down. “I can’t desert her now. And you forget that I have been through the same thing. I was trapped in that device. I know what it does to you. I have to do this, Qui-Gon.”

Qui-Gon was about to speak, but suddenly an explosion shattered the rocks at their side. Shards flew out at them. Both Obi-Wan and Qui-Gon sprang forward to protect Eritha. Qui-Gon shielded her with his body while they leaped behind her speeder.

“Keep your head down,” Qui-Gon ordered sternly. “It looks as though our battle has found us.”