“I have no objections,” Stellan said, hoping the Force would forgive him a little white lie. “Although maybe the footage should be picture, no sound?”

“Agreed,” Reza said firmly. “Some of the conversation may be … sensitive.”

Rhil took a step back, although her cam droid remained where it was near the ceiling. “Understood. You got that, Tee-Nine?”

The droid bleeped once and began recording again.

Stellan drew closer, trying not to feel self-conscious under the droid’s gaze.

“I won’t ask you how you are feeling.”

A smile tugged at the chancellor’s lips. “I think you just did.”

“Giving an interview already. Most people would have at least waited until they were out of bed.”

She cocked an amused eyebrow. “Are you saying I’m like most people?”

He shook his head. “Never.”

Her face grew more somber. “The people deserve to see me. This is my fault.”

“I don’t think anyone—”

That hand came up again, stopping him before he could protest.

“Please, Stellan. We both know what the media is saying. And if they aren’t saying it, they should. I was warned.”

“We were all warned.”

“And yet I carried on as if we were untouchable. How many people died because of my arrogance, Council Member?” Stellan assumed the question was rhetorical, letting her continue. “How many people will never return home from a ‘fun day at the fair.’ I take personal responsibility for each and every death.”

“The Nihil are to blame,” Reza reminded her darkly.

“And we allowed them to come, with our complacency. With our arrogance.” Soh turned back to Stellan, her face grave. “Master Gios, from this point on, you have the full resources of the Republic at your disposal. Intelligence. Security. Whatever you need. Please … will you bring these villains to justice?”

Stellan didn’t know what to say. He had expected for the Jedi to be asked to investigate, but this was something else. “I …” he began, searching for the right words. “I will consult with the Council.”

“I mean it, Master Jedi. I still believe in my heart that we were right to vote against Toon’s permanent defense force. The last thing the Republic needs is an army, but if you ask, I am convinced that every planet that flies the Republic flag will stand with you. Local security forces. Planetary guards—”

Now it was Stellan’s turn to stop her. “The Jedi are not warriors, nor should we ever be.”

“But you are symbols,” she insisted, trying to sit up. “Especially now, especially you.”

“Madam Chancellor—”