Naboo
Back on Concordia, Pre Vizsla called for Harry and Bo-Katan. The two young Mandalorians entered the chamber where Pre sat, surrounded by the artifacts of their people's history. The air was thick with the weight of expectation and responsibility.
“Dutchess Satine has asked for you to act as diplomatic negotiators on behalf of Mandalore. She has ordered you to go to Naboo and negotiate with them for vital water resources.”
“I sense a but” spoke harry
“In return for the water you will offer Beskar” replied Pre in a fiery voice.
“Your joking!”
“Satine can’t be serious, if she stands by this then she truly is lost!”
“Of all the things my sister has done, this is madness!”
The words hung in the air as Harry and Bo-Katan digested the gravity of the mission. They knew that the water crisis on Mandalore was severe, but to trade beskar—the very lifeblood of their warrior culture—for it was a price too high. It was a betrayal of the ancestors, of everything Mandalorian history and culture stood for.
"Father," Harry began, his voice filled with both respect and defiance, "trading beskar is not an option. It’s our legacy, our birthright. We can't let Satine dictate our fate."
“Your right, we will not betray our code like this, you will go to Naboo, you will get the water our people need, but you will find something else to trade.”
Pre’s words were like a storm cloud in the room. The decision was final, and Harry and Bo knew better than to argue further. They nodded solemnly. "We will not betray the Mandalorian legacy."
The following day, the Strikers boarded the Flaming Arrow, their spirits high despite the weight of their mission. The ship's interior was a blend of ancient and modern Mandalorian technology, with the comforts of home interwoven with the necessities of war. The journey to Naboo was long and tense, the weight of their task hanging heavily upon them. They used the time to sharpen their skills, train in the ship's sparring chamber, and study the art of diplomacy—or at least the art of bluffing.
As they approached the lush green planet, their sensors picked up an unexpected obstruction—a Trade Federation blockade. The ships' neon blue lights pierced the darkness of space like the eyes of a giant serpent, an ominous greeting to any who dared to cross its path. Harry felt the Force swirl around him, a mix of anticipation and unease. They were ready for a fight, but not one they had bargained for.
“The Trade Federation, what are these crooks doing here?” questioned Jace.
This wasn’t the first time the Strikers had crossed paths with the trade federation. They’d meet in the past. Usually these meetings involved the Strikers robbing them of resources or blueprints or credits and the federation droids shooting at them.
Harry turned to the Flaming Arrows captain. “Captain engage the stealth cloak and let’s get to the surface. Have all weapons standing by. Land at the royal hanger in Theed and once you drop Lady Bo-Katan and I off, take the ship and park outside the city, keep the stealth cloak on.”
“Yes Commander Vizla.”
The ship descended through the atmosphere of Naboo, the cloak shielding them from the Trade Federations sensors. As they approached the Royal hanger, the ship jolted slightly from the turbulence of the atmosphere. Harry and Bo-Katan were dressed in fine clothes typically seen on the rich and politicians. Cassius and Ursa would accompy them acting as their aids.
Harry turned to the rest of the strikers. “Wait with the ship until it lands outside the city, then I want Skye and Darius to bring us our gear. Axel tap into the communications, I want to know what’s going on, keep my father informed as well. Layla and Jace scout the fastest way to the ship from the palace!”
“Copy Commander” they answered.
The Flaming Arrow descended gracefully, slipping through the blockade like a shadow. It was a tense moment, but the stealth cloak held. The ship touched down in the Royal Hangar, the engines powering down to a gentle purr. Harry and Bo-Katan with Ursa and Cassius disembarked, their hearts racing. They were greeted by a welcoming committee of Naboo officials.
“Welcome to Naboo, you must be the ambassadors from Mandalore.”
“Thank you, I am Harrison Vizla, this is my wife, the Lady Bo-Katan Vizla nee Kyrze, sister of Dutchess Satine Kyrze of Mandalore.”
The Naboo officials looked surprised yet intrigued by the young couple. Clearly they hadn’t expected Satine to send her own kin. The four of them followed the officials through the grand corridors of the Royal Palace, the walls adorned with intricate tapestries and frescoes depicting Naboo’s storied history. The air was thick with the scent of exotic flora and the murmur of diplomatic conversations.
Their steps echoed through the marble halls, a rhythmic counterpoint to the beating of their hearts. As they approached the throne room, the grandeur grew, the arches towering above them like the branches of a great tree in the heart of a forest moon. The doors to the chamber were massive, adorned with gold leaf and carvings of ancient Naboo symbols.
As the doors slid open, a hush fell over the assembly. The Queen of Naboo, Padme Amidala, sat upon her throne, regal in her royal attire. Her eyes searched the newcomers, a hint of curiosity and perhaps a spark of hope in their depths.
“Your royal highness, may I present the ambassadors from Mandalore. Lord Harrison Vizla and his wife the Lady Bo-Katan Vizla, sister of Dutchess Satine Kyrze of Mandalore.”
The Queen of Naboo, Padme Amidala, rose gracefully from her throne. Her eyes searched Harry’s face, looking for the truth behind the mask of diplomacy he wore. Inside her head, she was surprised the Dutchess sent her sister and brother in law, but also hopeful. She had heard about the Mandalorians wars of old and she hoped these ones could help her with the Trade Federation.
"Welcome to Naboo, Lord and Lady Vizla," she said with a courteous nod. "Your presence here is unexpected yet not unwelcome. We are aware of the difficulties Mandalore faces. Tell us, what can we do to aid your people?"
Her words were measured, her tone calm, but Harry could sense the tension beneath the surface. The Trade Federation's blockade had surely taken its toll on the planet, and she was looking for a way to end it without compromising her people's sovereignty.
"Your Highness," Harry began, his voice strong yet respectful, "we come in peace, seeking an alliance between Mandalore and Naboo. Dutchess Satine, has sent us to negotiate for the water resources our people desperately need.”
The room was silent as the words hung in the air, the gravity of their mission palpable. Padme’s eyes searched theirs, seeking any hint of deceit. The Queen was known for her sharp intellect and cunning diplomacy, and Harry knew she would not be easily swayed.
“Water is indeed a precious commodity, especially in times of need. However, it is not something we can simply give away. Perhaps we may come to a decision in a more informal setting?”
The Queen’s invitation was a clever ploy, Harry knew, to gauge their intentions and possibly find a mutually beneficial agreement.
Bo-Katan stepped forward,”We would be glad of the opportunity, your highness.”
Harrison and Bo were led to a private chamber. A few moments later Padma joined them. She had removed her complex headpiece and white makeup and now wore a simple yet luxurious robe.
"Now tell me, Lord and Lady Vizla, why does Mandalore, a planet rich in resources, need our help with something so fundamental?" Her gaze was sharp and incisive.
“Mandalore is a barren planet your highness, after centuries of conflict the landscape has been transformed into endless desert. Mandalorians on Mandalore are forced to live in donned cities that sustain life. Yet we have little water resources on Mandalore.”
The words hung heavy in the air as Padme considered them. She knew of the Mandalorian wars and the planet’s tragic past, but she had never seen the extent of their desperation. “ You speak of Mandalorians on Mandalore, do you mean you inhabit other planets?”
“Indeed, your highness, we do not limit ourselves to one planet. We have spread across the stars, occupying several moons and planets within our system. Yet, it is on Mandalore where our hearts truly lie, and where our capital, Sundari, stands tall amidst the sands of regret and the promise of a new era,” Harry replied, his eyes filled with a fiery determination that mirrored the setting suns outside.
“I have heard there are problems on Mandalore, I have heard tales of some terrorist group. However I have failed to understand it. Perhaps you could fill me in?”
The question hung in the air, loaded with the weight of the galaxy's ignorance and fear. Harry and Bo took a deep breath before beginning the story, a story that was as much a part of them as the beskar armor they usually wore.
"Your Highness," Harry began, "the history of the Mandalorians is long and complex. It began with the Great Sith War, when we were united under Mandalore the Ultimate. Our people were strong, and our leaders were feared throughout the galaxy."
Bo-Katan took over, her voice filled with pride. "We conquered worlds and expanded our influence. But our ways grew too ambitious, and our hunger for power led to our downfall."
"The Mandalorian Wars," Harry said, his voice a whisper. "When the Jedi Council stepped in, fearing our might. They didn't understand our way of life, our creed of strength and honor."
"They saw us as a threat, and so they sent their knights," Bo-Katan picked up the tale, her eyes burning with a mix of anger and sorrow. "Jedi and Sith clashed on Mandalore, and in the end, our people were divided, torn apart by their ancient feud."
"The Darksaber," Harry said, his voice taking on a solemn tone, "was the symbol of our unity under the first Mandalore to rule with both the strength of the Force and the might of the warrior tradition. But when the Jedi took it from our world, it became a beacon for those who would reclaim our heritage and restore our honor."
Padme leaned in, her curiosity piqued. "The warrior culture," Harry continued, "has always been the heart of Mandalore. We live by the code, fight for our people, and die with honor. But recent times have seen a shift. Some have adopted the Jedi ways, seeking peace at any cost. They call themselves the New Mandalorians."
Bo-Katan's voice grew icy with the mention of the New Mandalorians. "They have turned their backs on our legacy, our very essence. They preach peace, but in doing so, they leave our people vulnerable. They wish for us to give up centuries of tradition and culture, to turn our backs on our ancestors, betray the Mandalorian code and give up our armour!”
“Your armour?”
“Mandalorian armour forged from the sacred metal Beskar. Mandalorians hand armour down from one generation to the next, so in a way we are continuing our ancestors legacy. The new government has banned the wearing of armour except for ceremonial occasions” explained Harry.
“The pacifists are ignorant fools and traitors. They give up centuries of tradition. They are not true Mandalorians. They only see the violence, they don’t see the honour and loyalty. They don’t realise that we as Mandalorians are a culture not a people” spoke Bo-Katan passionately.
“ You speak critically of Satines government yet you both are her kin! Why is this?”
“Satine is lost, Your Highness, she is blinded by her love for peace, but peace is not always the answer. Sometimes you must fight for what you believe in. For Mandalore’s future, we need strength, unity, and honor—things that have been lost under her rule. We are here to represent the true voice of the Mandalorians, the voice of the people who wish to reclaim our heritage and stand tall again,” Harry said firmly, his eyes never leaving hers.
Padme studied the young couple before her. The passion in their words, the conviction in their eyes—she could not help but admire their spirit. They were unlike any diplomats she had encountered. Their love for their people, their willingness to fight for them, was something she had not seen in the politicians of the Republic.
"Your dedication to Mandalore is commendable, Lord and Lady Vizla," she said, her voice filled with genuine respect. "But tell me why have you married so young? You are only a year older than myself!”
“Are marriage was arranged for political reasons by my sister, but we did not fight it because we knew we wanted to be joined together. In Mandalorian legends it is mentioned how it is during the trials and tribulations of war and battle that you find your partner for life. Harry and I found our way to one another through the flames of conflict, and when we had the chance to be joined together in union, we took it!”
Bo-Katan’s voice was filled with passion as she spoke about their union, her hand unconsciously reaching for Harry’s. Harry felt a warmth spread through him as he looked at his wife. They were indeed a perfect match.
Padme’s gaze grew thoughtful. “The Trade Federation’s blockade is a grave concern for us as well. Their greed and desire for power have brought them here to Naboo, seeking to control our water resources. But perhaps this is where our paths converge. If Mandalore and Naboo stand united, we may find a way to break their chokehold and secure your people’s needs while protecting my own.”
“I’m afraid that won’t work your highness. Dutchess Satine will never associate Mandalore with Naboo, because she fears a war. She wants Mandalore to give up her warrior past. However we do know of a group of Mandalorians that would be willing to stand with you.”
“Who are they?”
“The Death Watch, your highness, a faction of traditional Mandalorians, led by my father Pre Vizsla. They stand for the values of honor and strength that we believe in. They are willing to fight for Mandalore and will support any ally that aids us in this quest for water. They have been fighting against the New Mandalorians and the Republic for our right to be heard!” Harry spoke with a passion that was clear in his eyes.
Padme's eyes narrowed slightly, weighing the implications of aligning with such a group. "I am aware of the Death Watch. They are known for their...aggressive methods. Yet, if they truly seek an alliance for the betterment of Mandalore and are willing to assist Naboo in this crisis, we may find common ground."
Padme invited them to walk the palace gardens while they got to know each other. Padme couldn’t help herself but enjoy their company, and she found herself growing attracted to Harrison and Bo-Katan.
The gardens were a serene contrast to the tension in the palace. The soft glow of the setting sun painted the lush foliage in warm oranges and pinks, casting long shadows across the meticulously maintained paths. They talked of their respective worlds and the struggles they faced. They spoke of their life experiences.
As the evening grew late, they agreed to pick back up in the morning. Padme had a servant show them to their quarters. Cassius and Ursa were waiting for them.
“Contact Skye and Darius and tell them where we are staying so they can sneak our gear to us!”
“Yes Commander!”
“Axel do you copy” harry asked into his communicator.
“Affirmative, Commander. The ship has landed safely outside Theed and Skye and Darius are en route with your gear as we speak. They should arrive shortly.”
“What news have you?”
“A disturbance in the Force, commander. The Trade Federation leaders are amassing their forces and communicating with someone named sidious. Their intentions are unclear, but their actions are certainly alarming.”
“Continue listening in, anything from father or mandalore?”
“Negative, commander, no communications from Mandalore or Pre Vizsla yet. But the disturbance in the force is growing stronger. It’s as if a storm is approaching, but from where, I can’t tell.”
“Keep a watchful eye, Axel. We will need to be ready for anything. In the meantime, I need to prepare for tomorrow’s meeting. Make sure we are not disturbed tonight,” Harry ordered before shutting off the comms.
The room was quiet, the soft hum of the palace’s power systems a soothing background noise. Harry and Bo-Katan stood together, looking out the balcony into the night sky, the stars a distant promise of the battles to come.
“What do you think she’ll decide?” Bo-Katan whispered.
“She’s a shrewd one. I believe she’ll see the advantage in an alliance with us. But we must be prepared for anything,” Harry responded, his gaze on the distant horizon where the first stars of night were beginning to twinkle.
Bo-Katan nodded, her hand still in his, a silent understanding passing between them. They had been through so much together, and this was just the beginning of their journey. With a sigh, she leaned into his embrace, her head resting on his shoulder.
The night air was warm and carried the sweet scent of blooming night-blooming orchids from the gardens below. They stood there for a moment, watching as the stars began to emerge in the velvety sky, a reminder of the vast universe that lay beyond their immediate troubles.
Finally, with a sigh, Bo-Katan turned to Harry and said, "We should rest. Tomorrow will be a long day."
Their bed was soft and inviting, the covers a stark contrast to the harshness of their armor. They lay down, and Harry pulled her into his arms, her head nestling against his chest. The warmth of their bodies melded together, and she felt his heart beating steady and strong beneath her ear.
“Do you ever miss it?” she asked quietly.
“Miss what?” Harry murmured, his eyes still on the stars.
“Where you come from, your birth planet?”
The question hung in the air, and Harry felt a sudden heaviness in his chest. He didn’t remember much of his early life before the Mandalorians found him. Just flashes of pain, fear, and the coldness of those who were supposed to care for him. His birth parents had given him up, handed him over to a fate filled with cruelty and abuse. The memory was a scar that never truly healed, but he had learned to live with it, to use it as fuel for the fire that burned within him.
"Sometimes," he admitted, his voice a low rumble. "But the Mandalorians are my family now. They gave me a purpose, a home. They taught me the ways of the Mandor and turned me into the warrior I am today. Without them, I would not be standing before you as the man I am. Without Mandalore I wouldn’t have meet you Bo, my best friend and my soul mate!”
Bo-Katan smiled up at him, the soft light from the stars highlighting the love in her eyes. "And without you, Harry, we might still be fighting an endless war with no hope of peace. Your arrival has changed everything." With that she pulled him in for a tender kiss.