“On the contrary, Lord Jedi. Captain Maramis has been singing your praises ever since leaving Valo. As have I.” Her eyes flicked back to Soh. “As for Chancellor Lina Soh of the Galactic Republic … Other leaders would have hidden themselves away at the first sign of danger, but not you. You stood by your people, pulling them out of the rubble with your own hands if need be, assuring them time and time again that all would be well.”

“As did you, Regasa.”

“Which is why we are kindred spirits, as are Captain Maramis and Master Gios. You protect those in need and weep for those you cannot save. You are the spirit of the Republic, a spirit you share with my people.”

Soh leaned forward in her bed. “What are you saying, Regasa?”

“I am saying that the Nihil’s cowardly attack showed us that isolation is not the way. Only together can we be strong.”

“You are talking about an alliance?”

“At first yes, maybe more in time. It will not be easy. There are plenty in my government who disagree with me, but they will listen. I am their queen and I will be silent no longer.”

Of this, Stellan had no doubt. Maybe another of the chancellor’s Great Works was already in motion. Maybe there was still hope.

“In the meantime,” the regasa continued, “as a sign of goodwill, I am sending you a data package containing information that my intelligence services intercepted, encoded messages from the Nihil communications network.”

“From their comm network?” Reza repeated in disbelief.

“There were those who did not wish you to have it, preferring to use it for our own advantage, but I see no advantage in keeping secrets from our allies, for that is what we are, Chancellor. On that you have my word.”

Reza’s datapad bleeped. “I have the package.”

On the holo, Elarec Yovet smiled. “Excellent. We will talk again, Lina Soh, whether our governments like it or not.”

“The Senate will welcome your friendship,” the chancellor responded. “Talks can commence whenever you are ready.”

“We are ready now. My ministers just don’t know it yet. To the Spirit of Unity, Chancellor.”

“The Spirit of Unity,” Soh repeated, and the hologram cut off.

The chancellor didn’t waste any time, turning to Reza. “Have that intel analyzed and report back immediately.”

The Kalleran was already striding from the room. “At once, Madam Chancellor.”

The door slid open as he left, and Soh saw her son waiting in the reception room beyond, Jom Lariin at his side. There was no mistaking the tears that brimmed in her eyes.

“Now if you could all excuse me,” she said, beckoning Kip in, “I would like a moment alone with my son.”

Stellan indicated for everyone to leave them in peace, all except for Matari and Voru who jumped to their feet, purring loudly.