An Archive of Our Own, a project of the Organization for Transformative Works
Preview:
Mara’s footsteps slowed as she approached her destination. The doors to her master’s chambers stood tall and unwelcoming, flanked by two silent members of the Red Guard, who didn’t give her so much as a twitch in acknowledgement as the heavy slabs of metal slid aside to reveal the austere room that lay just beyond. Breezing past the threshold, Mara swiftly took her place at the foot of the stairs leading to the Emperor’s throne, kneeling and bowing her head as he conducted whatever business he’d been engaged in before her arrival.
It was not uncommon for him to summon her while meeting with some other underling. She’d learned early on that there was either vital information being shared that she would do well to be privy to, or her response time was being tested, and failure would be punished. In either case, she simply waited to be acknowledged, soaking in whatever words were exchanged between her master and his lesser subjects.
On this occasion, it was none other than Thrawn himself who demanded the Emperor’s attention. The Chiss stood impassively before their master’s throne, listening intently to the instructions he was given while his uncannily bright eyes barely even twitched at her arrival.
“I do commend your strategy,” their master drawled, gaze never leaving the Grand Admiral. “Given the knowledge you currently have, it is the most logical choice. However, as satisfying as it would be to strike at the Rebels while they are wounded, there are much more pressing matters near the Core that require your presence. Should the insignificant resistance they present grow beyond a minor nuisance, your expertise will be employed. However, there are plans in motion to keep the insurgents at bay, and I would much prefer to only call on your talents should they be absolutely necessary.”
Thrawn was silent for a moment as he seemed to consider the Emperor’s words. Mara, too, frowned in response. Whatever plans he had in motion remained a mystery to her, but she would simply trust that they would become clear to her when they were meant to. If Thrawn was worthy of his position, he would do the same.
“Understood, Your Majesty.”
