**Chapter 624**
**Scene 1**
**Lambda-class Shuttle – Hyperspace**
**Dagon POV**
The Lambda-class shuttle hummed steadily through hyperspace, the blue tunnel of stars streaking past the viewport. I sat across from Duchess Satine Kryze and Master Yoda in the passenger compartment, the tension thick enough to cut with a vibroblade. Satine's hands were clasped tightly in her lap, her elegant white and blue gown slightly rumpled from the chaotic events on Concordia. Her face was a storm of emotions — fury, fear, and barely contained frustration.
Yoda sat calmly beside me, his small form radiating quiet wisdom despite the gravity of the situation.
"You must understand, Duchess," I said carefully, my voice steady through the Temple Guard mask I still wore. "Your commitment to peace is admirable, but in this war, neutrality is becoming a liability. The Separatists and the Republic are both pressuring neutral systems. Death Watch is only the beginning. If we do not act, Mandalore will be pulled into the conflict whether you wish it or not."
Satine's eyes flashed with anger. "And your solution is to arm my people with ancient weapons and challenge their leaders to blood duels? You speak of peace while bringing war to my world!"
Yoda raised a small hand. "Peace, fragile it is. But protect it, we must. The Jedi can help you, Duchess. In exchange, soon Jedi and Mandalorians will stand side by side — just as during the Eternal Empire's conquest. Allies, we can be."
Satine looked between us, her voice trembling slightly. "You ask me to betray everything I have built. The New Mandalorians rejected the old ways for a reason. Violence only breeds more violence."
I leaned forward slightly. "And yet the old ways never truly died. They were simply buried. Death Watch proves that. We are offering you a chance to unite your people under your rule — with the Darksaber as a symbol of legitimacy. Not conquest. Unity."
The Duchess was silent for a long moment, her gaze distant. Fear and uncertainty warred behind her eyes. Eventually, Yoda stood, his gimer stick tapping softly.
"Rest, I must. Meditate on this, you should." With that, the small Master moved to the rear compartment, leaving Satine and me alone.
**Scene 2**
**Lambda-class Shuttle – Private Compartment**
**Dagon POV**
Satine Kryze sat across from me, tears glistening in her eyes. Even in her distress, she was strikingly beautiful — regal in her flowing white and blue gown, her double-D breasts rising and falling with each shaky breath. I could see why Obi-Wan had fallen for her all those years ago. There was strength and vulnerability in her that few could resist.
*Girls, I need advice,* I sent through the Force bond, keeping my mental voice calm.
Kayla's response was immediate and playful. *Uhm, try that thing you did with Aayla. Perhaps she likes getting spanked.*
*Hey! He didn't ask for seduction — he asked for compassion,* Aayla hissed back through the bond.
*Right… still, it's a good idea,* Shin added with a mischievous tone.
*No — how about a massage? Your massages are excellent. Plus, she has huge knockers,* Sakura chimed in.
*Any useful advice that won't cause an incident?* I asked, trying not to smile.
*Oh, try the kyber crystal trick. But she is not a Jedi — would it have the same effect?* Zule wondered.
I reached into a hidden compartment in my robes and pulled out a purified kyber crystal from one of my spare lightsabers. It glowed with a soft, calming white-blue light.
"Wow… it's beautiful," Satine whispered, her tears slowing as she stared at the crystal. "But why show me this?"
"I know you want peace," I said gently. "That's what the Jedi want too. But I need a favor."
We spoke in hushed tones for several minutes. I outlined a bold plan — one that would secure Mandalore's neutrality while giving the Jedi a quiet ally. Satine listened carefully, her initial resistance slowly giving way to thoughtful consideration.
"That is a bold plan," she said at last, wiping her eyes. "But it is the best option we have."
"It is your safest option," I replied, standing slowly. "Goodnight, Duchess."
As I turned to leave, Satine stood as well. Before I could react, she stepped forward and kissed me on the lips — soft, hesitant, but filled with genuine emotion.
"I once thought Obi-Wan and I would have a chance at this," she whispered, pulling back slightly. "But it seems… at least…"
I returned the kiss, deeper this time, my hand gently cupping her cheek. Satine melted into it for a moment, her body pressing lightly against mine.
"Your world will be safe," I promised as I pulled away. "I give you my word."
Satine stood there, blushing deeply, her fingers touching her lips as I left the compartment. The shuttle continued its journey through hyperspace, carrying us back toward the heart of Mandalore — and whatever future awaited us there.