Disclaimer: I don't own anything pertaining to the Star Wars franchise; all rightsare acquired to Disney. The only things I own are my OC's Ralem Solstice.

"Speaking"

'Thoughts'

'Telepathic'

Review Responses:

Zer0the0mega108 (Chapter 12): XD. Glad you enjoyed the chapter, though you probably won't see much more fighting until either the next chapter or the following one. But it will come soon I promise.

Danny R (Chapter 12): Thanks.

ThedemonlordPingu (Chapter 12): Thank you, I will show Ralem's Empire being developed, or in this case redeveloped since he has to rebuild the destruction of Tython from the Force Wars.

Mr. Click (Chapter 12): Thank you kindly, and that will be revealed soon :).

I'd imagine so, that was kind of Cortana's purpose I suppose for the longest of times since Ralem's disappearance. I'd also imagine she could have acquired information of Darth Bane's holocron as well. And with Ralem's wealth, oh he is definitely loaded, probably the second richest person in the galaxy (some of the wealth that would've been Ralem's was invested by Cortana to the InterGalactic Banking Clan for example).

I did read the suggestions you had for this story and I loved them. However I used the Star Forge idea and the secret corporation idea for my other SW story Shadows of the Sun (if you're interested in reading that). I do like the idea of the ships being named after Ralem's loved ones :')

Though I see Ralem as fed up with hiding. He kept himself in the shadows for so long, so to speak, and he's realized that during his war against the Infinite Empire.

Plus his Empire is almost complete- he's got the Eternal Fleet, the Knights of Zakuul (renamed Knights of Tython), he's got Maul, now he just needs to spread out across the galaxy. But don't worry Ralem's not going to strongarm anyone but he will serve a swift hand to those who deserve it ;).

And your idea with Jango and Mandalore the Rebirth, Ralem did promise Jango that he would see that he would be leader of Mandalore if he worked with him.

amerdism (Chapter 12): Thank you! To answer your questions in order: There is no defined number of ships in the Eternal Fleet outside of the quote 'More vast than any ever built' in relation to the Republic and Sith Empire, plus the numbers of the Eternal Fleet still outmatched the combined fleets of the Republic and Empire. The army of Zakuul is comprised of the Knights of Zakuul and droids. Again there is no defined numbers in the army. The types of droids in the army are Skytrooper droids. Most of the questions about the Eternal Fleet I can't really answer, even if you use Wookipedia since the Knights of the Fallen Empire is new so there's not a lot of information about them.

Maul, however, does wear the black tunic/robes from Season 5 of Clone Wars.

Ralem's description is this- tall ( 6 feet even), slim lean and muscular, short brown spiky hair, wears golden and black armor (designed similarly to the Imperial Knights of the Fel Empire) with the insignia of a tribal sun and crescent moon on his gauntlets and shoulder pads, and his eyes are golden. He wields a golden hilt lightsaber with a matching golden blade.

The Book of Eli (Chapter 12): I bet you are lol. Hopefully the payoff will be worth the wait ;).

Guest (Chapter 12): Ok.

Guest (Chapter 12): Thank you.

reptoholic (Chapter 1-12): Thank you for all those nice reviews and hope you continue to enjoy this story.

-Rise of the Je'daii Empire-

Tython

The Force was strong with him. His brother had it, his sister had it, his father had it… His other brother had it.

He was the Force in its physical form, its mortal connection to the galaxy. To light the path that the Jedi and Sith had been to blind to see, or too arrogant to acknowledge. 25,000 years wasted. His dream, once crushed by his own beliefs; a sick perversion of his truth twisted by his own people.

Ralem's golden eyes opened as a single droplet of rain landed in front of him on the grass. The damp smell of the earth alerted him too late of the upcoming storm, he sensed it with the Force long ago…

Another drop of rain…

Closer, then farther. In front then behind him.

The Je'daii Kage reached for his only companion on his waist, the low hum of the golden Forcesaber started to sizzle from the on-growing rain. No drops landed on him yet.

A sharp crack of thunder brought a smile to his face. There it was…

Guiding his own actions, Ralem sliced the raindrop to his left then thrusted forward. Five drops, ten drops, twenty three drops.

Soon a golden sphere of fire protected the Je'daii from blistering rain and severe thunder, he could feel the drastic drop in temperature from the warmth of the sun to the desolate chillness now.

Yellow eyes studied from afar, watching his master's blinding strikes slicing the tiniest droplets of rain. Maul knew nothing of his life outside of the Sith teachings, knew nothing of his mother, or the true nature of the Force and the galaxy. In some ways, he thought, neither did his master. His master had created everything in the galaxy, but did not live to see the building corruption that his beliefs, or his plans, set in motion in the last twenty-five thousand years. Yet there was more to the story that his master was willing to tell.

It wouldn't have mattered, it wouldn't change the past. The past rarely affects the future, for history repeats itself regardless. The past only affects the present.

The torrential downpour continued on Tython for the next forty-five minutes, Ralem's golden blade giving the Zabrak Je'daii a focus for his meditation, his yellow eyes still focused on his master.

-Rise of the Je'daii Empire-

"Have you finished analyzing the Infinite technology?" Ralem asked, focusing his golden eyes on the GEMINI Prime, codenamed: SCORPIO.

The feminine droid's orange sensors continued to analyze the data on the multiple holo-screens. "The process is completed. It is quite an impressive technological marvel, unlike many things from my existence of three millennium."

"And the same technology I can deliver to the galaxy," Ralem continued. "In exchange for allegiance to the Je'daii Empire."

SCORPIO looked away from the screen and to the Je'daii Kage. "You are a curious creature, Je'daii."

"Not that curious," Ralem smirked and focused his attention to the data. "I assume you can interact with the technology and upload it into the Eternal Fleet."

"It will take time but it is possible."

Ralem nodded. "Alert me when the process begins and when it ends. I must leave and begin to grow my Empire." Maul followed his master, leaving the feminine droid to continue her research. "Time draws closer my apprentice," he took a breath. "I can feel it."

"Yes my master," Maul stated. "The Force is shifting in our favor."

"It is shifting, yes," the Je'daii Kage repeated softly.

"But you have doubts," the Zabrak said.

"Concerns," Ralem corrected. "I fear for what is yet to come, and for what you lack to comprehend. Somethings even I can not teach you." The Je'daii's pace quickened. "But those will be my worries, not yours. You will maintain relations with the Mandalorians… keep your eyes and ears on Duchess Satine."

"As you wish."

-Rise of the Je'daii Empire-

Bardotta; several hours later…

The flow of the Force on Bardotta was tranquil like the strong current of a flowing river. Ralem watched the thin misty clouds hanging around his legs on the chilled mountain side, the sound of blaster fire and the screech of starfighter engines rang in his ears.

Now the odd silence called to him.

Appreciating the feudal architecture, Ralem stepped from the circular landing platform and entered the Bardottan Royal Palace, immediately halting at the squad of palace guards.

"Halt intruder!" the Bardottan guard ordered, pointing his spear at the Je'daii. "State your reason for this intrusion."

"I request an audience with Queen Julia, for an alliance," Ralem stated matter-of-factly. "Your people have a very spiritual outlook on the Force, I'm quite surprised given how low the Jedi have fallen."

The guards hesitated and ever so slightly lowered their weapons. "What are you then?"

"I am a Je'daii. The first and last of my people, we follow the tenets of balance, choice, knowledge, and power as our guiding path to enlightenment in the Force," explained Ralem.

"What could you hope to gain with an alliance with our Queen?"

Ralem smirked. "I was hoping to ask her myself."

The guards looked at each other, then nodded. "We will take you to her. Follow us."

-Rise of the Je'daii Empire-

The low lighting candles decorating the center of the large cavernous room created a mystical mood. The council of Bardottans circled above the Je'daii, looking down on him from their holy place.

"Reminds me of home," Ralem said aloud, his hand hovering over one of the candles. The heat on his hand caught his attention for a second. "Your people have a unique understanding of the Force, perhaps not too far off from my own."

The Bardottan Queen crossed her leg, inspecting the stranger in her court. "You are not a Jedi, are you?"

Ralem shook his head. "I am something more than a public servant of the Galactic Republic, your highness. What I am is difficult to explain as my story is as old as the stars."

"And you desire something of us, I assume. What is it you seek?"

"An alliance- your word, your trust, and much more," Ralem answered. The Je'daii inhaled and the flames of the candles flared wildly and with vigor under his control. "I know your people's mistrust of the Jedi- taking your newborns away from their fathers and mothers and families, and make them servants."

The Bardottan council glanced to each other, surprise and worry fluxing in their core.

"I never wanted this- for the galaxy to separated from one another. The Republic was only meant to be a short term solution against the threat of the time: the Infinite Empire, about twenty-five thousand years ago by my calculations," Ralem continued.

"He speaks of nonsense!" cried one Bardottan councilman. "Our people gain nothing from him! He must be a Jedi, trying to sneak himself back into our good graces and steal our people from us."

Firm golden eyes focused on the Bardottan Queen, sensing her reluctance and hesitation. "Look at me. Do I wear the robes of a subservient Jedi? Do I harness the power and arrogance of the Dark side? I am not Sith. I am not a Jedi. I am a Je'daii, I am the embodiment of the Force; the fire and light of knowledge to cast away the ignorance that has casted upon the galaxy during my absence. And I will correct that mistake, I just need people who I can trust and who can trust me."

The Bardottan Queen reflected on the young man's words, her eyes shifting wordlessly from her council members. They didn't trust the stranger. She, however, was intrigued by his nature. He told the truth- he wasn't a Jedi. She knew not from his armor, but through his connection to the Force and how he talked of it.

"I am Queen Julia and I speak for the Bardottan people," Queen Julia spoke, silencing the squabble that mocked her courtroom. Standing from her throne, she descended down the flight of stairs and entered the circle where the Je'daii stood. Being five inches taller than the Je'daii, the Bardottan Queen tilted her head slightly downward to observe him better.

She was a beautiful specimen, noted Ralem. Yellow skin, fiery red hair, or feathers…

"The Dagoyan Order focuses on asceticism and meditation, striving to form a strong and personal connection to the Force. We avoid the light and dark aspects of the Force, we form a passive connection to the Force. We avoid using the Force as a tool to affect the physical world, and avoid objectifying the Force in a moral way," Queen Julia informed. She stared at Ralem, her curious blue eyes locked with his golden orbs. "What does your Je'daii believe in?"

"We have four tenets that build our foundation: Balance, Choice, Knowledge and Power. Each of these tenets affect the other in our quest to bring balance in the Force," explained Ralem. "The latter three affect the outcome the greatest; it is our power that affects our knowledge, it is our knowledge that guides our choices, and it is our choices that affect the balance. The beauty of our belief is that it is ever-changing; we are learning and growing not only in strength but in knowledge and wisdom too."

"You never make the same mistake twice, I take it." A warm smile grew on the Bardottan's beak. "A very interesting ideology you follow. Quite unlike the Jedi, so set in their ways."

"Tends to happen when one grows complacent in their cradle of power," Ralem agreed. "If I may your highness, I would be honored to show you my connection to the Force in a way you may be familiar with."

Queen Julia's eyes danced in high spirits. "I would very much like to see what you have in store."

Ralem offered a hand of friendship. "I simply offer a truth you may not have considered. We all must learn new things."

-Rise of the Je'daii Empire-

The Queen's private meditation chamber was oh so familiar to the Je'daii architecture on Tython. Yes, the Queen would make a fine ally to his cause. Ralem waited in the center of the room as Queen Julia closed the door behind her, ordering her guards not to disturb them.

"You ever wonder how life began?" pondered Ralem aloud. He turned his head to face the Queen, watching her graceful legs saunter towards him.

"I don't suppose that is a trick question," Julia said, smiling kindly as she stood next to the Je'daii. "However I believe there is a purpose for life."

Purpose.

"Purpose is…" Ralem laughed quietly. "It's something."

Julia squinted with playful musing. "Not quite the answer I was expecting to hear from someone who claims to be 'knowledgeable'."

"It's a never-ending journey. Knowledge expands so does ones power, which influences the choices we make."

"Which affects the 'balance' of the Force."

"It's a beautiful system of the Je'daii. It's simple, easy to understand and maintain… but there is consequence to free will and choice- it can corrupt your purpose."

"A bold statement," stated Julia. "Doesn't it contradict your belief?"

Ralem shrugged his shoulders. "Not really, because it's the truth. Purpose is a fundamental aspect of our lives, why do we think we repeat that question over and over, 'Who am I?' and 'What is my purpose in life?'. If you choose your own purpose, you're only looking at a small piece of a vastly infinite picture; it would be arrogant for any one person to make their own purpose without proper experience which leads to wisdom."

The Je'daii Kage extended his hand to the Queen. "Everything has a beginning. Once you find the origin then you can understand the true nature of the Force. Think of the Force as a tree; the leaves and branches represent the Jedi and Sith, they are plenty of them but on a tree it's all people focus on. The trunk shows the duality of light and dark becoming one with Revan and his Revanites in the Old Republic. And the roots and seed of the tree is me and the Je'daii, for without that seed the tree would not grow. However without the soil that very same seed cannot flourish, which is the Force. With balance comes unity, and I will unite the galaxy to the glory it should've been a long time ago."

-Rise of the Je'daii Empire-

Tython

The hustle and bustle of the Je'daii at Bodhi, the Temple of the Arts, startled the Bardottan Queen immensely. The sudden yelp from the Queen halted any sign of activity at the temple; the whimsical music stopped their joyous sounds, curious as to the new arrival of their master's guest.

Ralem waved his hand and immediately the festivities continued as normal. "It's almost poetic, how alike our people are. They sort of… rhyme." Holding out his arm, the Je'daii Kage guided the Queen through the mass of his people. "I do apologize for the sudden teleportation but it would've taken too long of a trip by ship."

Taking a slow, calming breath the Queen continued her observation. "I must admit I'm very… I don't think there's any words to be said."

"Maybe it's for the best," chuckled Ralem. "Taking the sights in is a lot harder to refute. You'll return home shortly, or immediately if you wish, but I pray that you take my offer into heavy consideration."

The heavy beating of her heart and the sudden actions of the Je'daii still rattled the Queen's nerves. "Of course, though I wish to understand what you plan for the Jedi and the Republic fully. If what you say about yourself is true."

-Rise of the Je'daii Empire-

Coruscant; Padme's office

Kaleb Solaris gazed lazily out of the panoramic window, the sun's warm glow casting its sleeping spell on him. His golden eyes flickered towards the Naboo Senator idly doing her work at her desk. They had sat in relative silence for several minutes, it was nice and relaxing.

The Je'daii's stomach churned as his recollection of Lanoree contended with the image of Padme. Was the guilt of his past blinding him now? Was he even trying to build a better future? To bring balance to the Force? Or was he simply…

"You'll have a lot of work ahead of yourself in the future," Padme announced, causing the Je'daii to double-take her sudden words. "And lazing around staring me isn't going to help."

"I need some form of motivation," grinned Kaleb teasingly. "And a beautiful woman is certainly the easiest." The gaze from Padme caused Kaleb's shoulders to partially tense. "It's sorta true… Sorry." Standing from his chair, the Senator from Tython walked over to the female Senator's desk and sat on the edge of it. "It's a lot more of a burden than I thought it would be, you know? Doing what you have to for your people."

Padme placed her hand on the troubled young man's hand, trying to ease his worries. "I know how you feel. I was fourteen when I was elected to become Queen of Naboo, and I was…" She stifled an amusing laugh, shaking her head with her beautiful crossing her lips. "But I had to do what I believe was right for my people. You'll be fine, don't worry. I'll be here if you need help."

"It's nice to know that a beautiful woman is expecting me with open arms," Kaleb chuckled as Padme slapped his hand for his shameless flirtation. However an amusing smirk crossed her lips as well. Kaleb shook his hand from the slight pain. He looked to his hand then return his gaze to Padme, his eyes softening. "I don't meany to pry but have you thought about what you'd do after, I don't know, you finished your time with politics?"

"I actually haven't," Padme replied honestly. She was always so focused on doing what was best for Naboo and the Republic that she hadn't thought of herself. Nor did she think that it wouldn't be prudent to do so. Though after the events of the Invasion of Naboo, some thoughts dwindled in the back of her mind. "My life has always been dedicated to serving the needs of others and speaking for those who can't speak for themselves."

"The needs of the many outweigh the needs of the few," quipped Kaleb. "Still there must be something you've dreamed of." Padme smiled and leaned back in her chair.

"I suppose I just want to spend my final days on Naboo with my family, down by Varykino that's where our family retreat home is." Kaleb smiled fondly at her dream.

"Apparently great minds think alike. I've actually been to Varykino before, a long time ago," Kaleb's voice softened at the last words. Everything seemed so long ago, yet…

"Would you like to come with me?" offered Padme. The Senator from Tython glanced at her confusingly. "To Naboo to see my family, I think it'd be a nice treat for the both of us."

"I, uh, don't know," Kaleb stated in a state of fluster. He didn't expect Padme to offer her home to him. "I don't see why not, you've been very busy and with my sudden appearance on the scene-"

"Don't worry about that," hushed Padme, returning to her work. "Seeing as how I've been hard at work to prevent the proposition of Military Creation Act."

"Isn't that the bill that's supposed to create an army for the Republic because of all the successions to the Separatist cause?" asked Kaleb.

Padme's face grew grim, her brows furrowed in discernment however nodding silently. "I just can't imagine any reason why anyone would support the notion of starting a war."

Shrugging his shoulders, Kaleb waltzed over to the large window. "Technically haven't the Separatists already courted the idea of war? Since they're breaking away from the Republic? And even then, I imagine that the Republic would want them back in the fold so I doubt diplomatic measures would change their minds."

Padme drummed her fingers along her desk. "Some would see it that way. I don't. I believe that diplomacy can save lives and work to ensure equality for all."

"So there aren't any problems with the Republic?" Kaleb inquired, looking over his shoulder. "Doesn't seem that way to the Separatists."

"I'll admit that the Republic has strayed off its path but it's nothing that can't be fixed."

Kaleb Solaris turned to face the Naboo Senator, his hands folded behind his back. "I guess that's true though it depends on what point of view the Separatists see as faults within the Republic. When's the date for the bill?"

"Soon. Very soon," Padme answered. "Which was why I was unsure about leaving earlier but I think going home might do me good. I've been cooped up in this office for days and weeks now."

"And thank you for inviting me to come along," thanked Kaleb. "I appreciate it."

The Naboo Senator smiled gently at the young man. "It's no problem, it'll ease your mind from all the paperwork of the Republic." The Senators laughed, soft sounds of enthusiasm and enjoyment bonding the two even closer than before. "You might want to start packing, we'll leave once I'm finished."

"No rush then," quipped Kaleb, relaxing in his seat. "You'll be done by the time I'm dead." Padme rolled her eyes but smiled endearingly as the Tython Senator closed his eyes, a childish grin flashing on his lips.

-Rise of the Je'daii Empire-

Naboo; Varykino

The warm spring sun basked its holy glow upon the serene waters of the Lake Country, the calls of Quadducks sang overhead and flew past the glows of Naboo's sun. Everything the Je'daii Kage had worked for, sacrificed for, all hinged on a few short moments. For too long had he wasted his potential… no, they had took advantage of him. His power, his knowledge, his influence, his grace, his mercy… all for what?

Democracy?

Equality?

Self-entitlement?

The Je'daii's golden eyes flared like a dying star before it exploded into a supernova. Power came at a price. Sacrifice, his sacrifice, was already too much of a price. He had time to stall until the results from SCORPIO came in. A shiver of something powerful crawled up his spine. He knew what it was.

"You look rather stressed, are you ok?" asked Padme, her beautiful… The Je'daii kept his stern gaze focused on the lakeside.

"Well as I can be," Kaleb answered with melancholic indifference. Padme noticed his stiff shoulders, and as she leaned over the edge of the stone railing saw the glower on the sixteen year old. "I never imagined that it would be this hard. To have this burden on you, it's easy enough when it's by yourself but when you're dealing with everyone in the galaxy… I don't even know how a democracy could last this long."

"Many good things come easily, other good things sometimes show us who we are. What defines us isn't what people think of us, it's whether we can live by what we believe to be true."

"And what if you believe to be true isn't anymore? What then?" Kaleb asked. Leaning away from the railing, he tightened his grip with superhuman strength but not enough to crack it.

"That's quite the predicament then, I don't know. All I believe is that someone should be the wielder of truth and should be a voice for those who can't speak for themselves."

"Maybe that's their problem," Kaleb said.

Padme frowned at the dark comment. "And who are you to make such a claim?"

"Who are you to defend those who can't defend themselves?" countered Kaleb, his golden orbs fixing on her. Standing to his full height of six foot even, the Je'daii towered the Senator by six inches. "They won't learn at all, they'll keep being weak since they know someone will defend them at all times. It prevents progression and only increases weakness. Maybe that's why my people left the Republic."

"Then why did you come back if we're so 'weak'?" Padme defended, her anger clear in her voice.

Kaleb Solaris glared at the Senator, golden orbs of the sun clashed against the determination of all he had ever created. She reminded him too much of her…

"Desperate times called for desperate measures," Kaleb said softly. "I did what I had to for my people, I didn't know what else to do."

"Doesn't explain your actions," Padme continued.

"You don't honestly think the Republic's the only side with angels, do you?" Kaleb eyed her condescendingly, turning his gaze back to the lake. "There's something you should know. Back on Tython there's an ancient history of my people, there was a time where the Jedi and Sith didn't exist; there was only one Order of the Force. They were called the Je'daii." Kaleb leaned his head slowly back, contemplating the bright beauty of the sky. "They had four tenants that they lived by and how they defined the Force- Balance, Choice, Knowledge and Power. Each of these tenants influenced the other, they weren't separate."

Padme eased her frown as she listened to the young man, her frown replaced with inquisitive enlightenment.

"There is no Light or Dark sides of the Force as the Jedi and Sith believe, that's a lie," Kaleb continued, his words even and soft. "There is only the Force and the mysteries that it holds. Kinda like a rainbow." He grinned at the teachings of the Aing-Tii, how their world was divided by black and white. "Or maybe something more, who knows." Kaleb leaned forward on his folded arms, his left thumb rubbing on the knuckles of his right hand. "The Je'daii from what I understood were… I don't want to say idealists, but they knew and understood what and who they were."

"Did they work together to achieve their common goal?" Padme asked.

Kaleb's brow pressed together, unreassuring feelings rising within him.

"Because that is how democracy works: people from all walks of life coming together in order to achieve prosperity," Padme said, resting her hand on the Tython Senator's arm. "It's difficult at times, but it's those hardships that fold the gaps and help us cross it."

"What hardships?" asked Kaleb. "What hardships do they face? The only reason why people suffer is because they believe in something so blindly that they'll kill themselves for it. Only for that same belief to be changed or tweak later on, so they died for nothing. Choice based on limited knowledge is not a choice, it's slavery; you do what your told and you don't question it." The Senator from Tython gripped Padme's shoulders firmly, his golden orbs shone brightly; the sins of his failures, his choices, led him to this moment, where the galaxy remained divided because of what they thought and believed was true. "People have never been smart, if they were then they wouldn't need government or leaders; they'd rule themselves. But they won't. They can't because they don't know any better. You learn things, you don't know them off hand. You grow, you struggle, you adapt, you evolve; there is no equality, there is progression."

The Je'daii lowered his hands from Padme's shoulders, tracing his hands down her soft arms and to her hands, taking them into his own. He contemplated on the meaning of their grip; it wasn't awkward, but there was a spark of tension. And it was growing…

The brown eyes of the slightly older woman understood the burden that he was drowning in; the insecurities, doubt, anxiety, the instability and uncertainty. Pulling the young man closer to her, Padme brought Kaleb into a comforting hug; she heard the rapid heartbeat of the young Senator, bringing a smile of bemusement to herself.

"I don't claim to have all the answers, and I never will. I wouldn't want that, it would ruin the beauty and mystery of what I love," Padme said gently, observing the quiet elegance of the lakeside. "You can't control everything and everyone, even if you think or know you have all the answers."

"That's probably the most selfish thing I've ever heard," Kaleb stated, a quiet snort coming from the Senator of Tython. "You would continue the slaughter of the people and their "beliefs" and "truths" because you don't want to hurt their feelings?"

"Everytime a person rises above the rest and demands for everyone to drop their points of views for whatever reason they claim, it reveals the selfishness of that one man," countered Padme, her body becoming firm in his grasp. "He's only helping himself in the guise of peace and equality for control and power."

Kaleb rubbed her back reassuringly, his mind continuing its storm of thoughts. "Isn't that everybody does? Control and manipulate others for what they believe to be truth, to get what they want? Sounds no different than the one man controlling everyone, the difference is that the more noble person doesn't realize what she's saying."

The sudden disappearance of Padme's warmth told the Je'daii how cold and alone he really was; the Naboo Senator trekked to the stone railing and rested over the ledge, her curly brown hair flowing in the soft breeze. Her cream-beige gown fluttered in angelic grace, and the Je'daii knew why she reminded him of Lanoree; the angelic beauty, the quiet confidence that many men would never have, the firm conviction in her eyes when she spoke.

So many similarities, yet one difference he should've known already: Padme was not Lanoree.

Was he trying to replace her?

His golden eyes sobered in late realization. Taking his place next to her, Kaleb rubbed his hands together in quiet thought. That's all he did now… just think… contemplate his failures… question everything that he suffered and worked for.

"Nothing is built on stone; everything is built on sand, but you must build as if sand was stone," Kaleb noted, tilting his head downward towards the stone railing, picking at it with his index finger. "Sand is flimsy… it's rough, coarse and irritating, it's pretty much worthless really." Padme tilted her head towards the young man, unsure of what to make of his sudden proclamation.

Kaleb stretched his hand outward towards the lake, his golden eyes focused on the parting waters. The shock and awe and disbelief in Padme's eyes trickled into a sense of mysticism and surrender, watching the moist stream of sand come towards them. The Je'daii levitated the sand within his hands, the fluidity of its movement was alluring and graceful.

"Yet in the right hands, with an eye for fault and detail, and the passion of a creator," Kaleb continued, pressing his hands firmly on top of the sand; a bright golden light flashed between his fingers, startling Padme briefly, and when the young man eased his grip displayed an elegant crystallized tribal sun. "You give birth to power and knowledge. And the combination of these two ideals can make one a god." Feeling the divinity of her skin upon his, Kaleb handed her the crystal sun. "You are right about one thing, about sacrifice," he closed her hand on top of the sun, holding his grip for a passing moment before letting go. "However one of our sacrifices will bear fruit for the galaxy and its people."

Her heart tried to remain steady, trying to compose herself of what she had just witnessed; the talks, the display of power rivaling of a Jedi… the slight chill of her skin when he touched her. Opening her hand, Padme studied the intricate detail of Kaleb's gift, watching the young man himself walk back into the villa.

-Rise of the Je'daii Empire-

The twilight of the sunset called upon the times drawing near. Kaleb Solaris, Ralem Solstice, the Je'daii Kage… a man holding many names and titles, yet his dream to bring the galaxy back into balance was his only source of strength.

The color of the sunset was rather unique; a yellow-silver-white color shone against the large, thick clouds still in the sky. Like the binary sunset, telling him of many forebodings and fortunes that awaited him. One path, many dangers… yet he understood the dangers better than all. He had created those perils in the beginning, soon he would end it. And all will follow him to an age none ever dared to dream, to live a true utopia guided by the mind of the body and the spirit of the soul.

'The true nature of the Force,' mused Ralem. 'It can be divided by pieces, yet its presence is all-consuming and all knowing. Only the Force can exist if there is to be balance. No Light, no Dark… no Jedi, no Sith. Only the path of progression can save the people from themselves.'

How to convince them would be his biggest challenge. His power and mind were unrivaled in the galaxy, he had orchestrated all the transpiring events into motion. He created the galaxy… He was a creator, for he was created.

"Dinner is ready," Padme called out softly, standing a small distance from the Force wielder. His posture strong and composed, he turned to face Padme; she had time to adjust assuringly from his small confession a few hours ago. But it wasn't the full truth.

Would he tell her? Should he tell-

"Thank you, Padme," Kaleb said, offering a smile of gratitude. The Naboo Senator nodded solemnly, a tiny flicker of a smile caught his eye.

-Rise of the Je'daii Empire-

The crackling of the open fire broke the silence between Padme and Kaleb, sitting on opposite ends of the couch. The air was rigid, neither one could properly take a breath. His own guilt was beginning to rile him up, his frustration starting to show in the tension of his shoulders. The dark maroon threads of the furniture and rug invoked a certain kind of power; capturing the young couple in its grasp.

"You're one of the Je'daii, aren't you?" Padme asked, softly enough that Ralem almost missed it.

"I am," he answered, shifting his body to face her directly. He wanted to say something else, however he kept seeing Lanoree everytime he blinked… it wasn't fair to her, to him, or to Padme. He needed to try to move on from his sins, his past, everything that he couldn't control. "Of all the things I've told you, I've only lied to you once- my name is Ralem Solstice, not Kaleb Solaris."

"I imagine that there is more that you haven't told me," ventured Padme, her gaze unblinking. "Even if you haven't said a single lie, choosing which words to say and which you wanted me to hear."

"What I say is too much for anyone in this time, or any time, to believe full heartedly without proof," Ralem stated. "And it will open a door that I can't risk opening. Not yet." He reached out and grabbed her hand firmly, ignoring the tense hesitation he felt from her. "Who I am is something you can never fully accept, because I'm not one of you." Padme pulled her hand away, backing away from him now, concern and worry etched on her face. She was beginning to become afraid of him, afraid of the unknown; he knew this, but he had little choice now.

"What are you saying?" demanded Padme.

Ralem felt his hand shake for the tiniest moment, he felt like the ten year old child he was when he first landed on Tython. He had grown past that stage, he was a god now. The only he feared… was his own failures, the failures of doing nothing.

"It's true… all of it," Ralem began, standing from his seat. "Everything I've told you- the Republic, the people, the Force, the Jedi, the Sith, Democracy. It's all true. I am the reason why the galaxy exists, why the Republic was created, why the Je'daii was born. When I created the Republic, it was to combat against the Infinite Empire- beings who would cruelly enslave those who had ties to the Force. That was twenty-five thousand years ago Padme, I was born to create peace and bring balance to all living beings. And I would've done it."

Padme's demeanor twisted and contorted, the onslaught of many emotions swirled on her face. Concern, fear, anger, uncertainty, regret, sadness- he could feel it as if it were his own. Perhaps they were his own…

"Why didn't you?" Padme finally asked, her voice strained with unsauntered emotion.

Ralem scoffed, shrugging his shoulders in a haughty manner. "I've been asking that for a long time. Perhaps I was afraid I would get what I wanted. Maybe I was concerned that everything I built would fall around me, even if I had all the power in the universe." He shook his head, glancing away from her and stared at the starry night sky. "Maybe… I like it. To feel this," he gestured his stomach in a swirl. "It gives me purpose, a goal to strive towards. All my life I've been suffering to get where I am, and it worked. I deserve this. Happiness was never be an option for me. Power is the ability to take action, to move forward; not get what you want most."

Her eyes glossed over in regret upon seeing the facade of the Force God begin to break, his throat bobbed up and down trying to maintain his composure. She could feel his internal torment, it was hard pressed against her. This type of pain was too real to be ignored, too real to say anything. But she had to know…

"Do I remind you-"

The Je'daii shook his head, not wanting to hear aloud what he already knew. "Don't ask me that." His voice wavered, Padme knew now.

"You must have loved her greatly," Padme said gently, gaining the newfound courage to walk up to him. "You have a good taste in women," she joked, trying to ease the young man in any way she could.

Ralem smiled, a soft snort following. "You look almost exactly like her." Facing towards Padme, observing the twin silver bands on her forehead, the way her loop scarf framed around her neck and down her dress, to her very dress itself; the obsidian corset hung her figure very tightly, very seductively to the normal eye. "You're a bit more bold than her that's for sure, but…" He paused, resting his hands on the sides of her neck, placing his thumbs on her cheek, softly stroking them. "I can't do this. It's not fair to any of us. I'm not strong enough to go through this again." Ralem rested his forehead against Padme, his lips too close to hers. That selfish desire lingered in him. Backing away, the Je'daii's golden eyes flickered in confusion when Padme grabbed his wrists with more strength than he was expecting.

Brown eyes observed the golden twin suns in front of her, her silent thoughts betraying the smirk that etched on her lips. "You told me that the Je'daii valued four tenets: Balance, Choice, Knowledge and Power. In certain situations, you have to take a leap of faith, regardless of the consequences that you know exist. That's what makes life is grand and mysterious." Wrapping her arms around Ralem's neck, the bold kiss from her triggered Ralem to possessively grab her and deepen the kiss. The sweet fragrance from Padme edged Ralem forward, his hands roaming demandingly against her clothes and body. The bold, natural scent of the earth and nature brought a sense of ease and comfort to Padme, running her hands against his short brown hair.

"... Stay with me," Padme panted, finally breaking away from their lustful endeavor. "Tonight… please." She pecked his lips multiple times, smothering and smearing her lips in a subservient manner, and grinding her body against his in her silent plea. The low growl of the Force God was the last sound she heard from him before he spun her around and grabbed the loop scarf, pulling it tightly against her throat. The sudden asphyxiation and abrupt domination made her loins moist, his hot breath on her ear only adding the delicious desire.

The Je'daii kissed her ear and licked her neck, his body pressing firmly against her back. "When I claim you, I claim all of you, not just the parts that you show me or I show you. I won't allow a wall to separate us in any sense of the word. I will give you the chance to back away now, I will leave and never return. What happens after tonight… it will change everyone's lives in the galaxy, and I won't be able to protect you."

"Then protect me tonight," Padme demanded, forcing herself to turn around and face the Je'daii. "And only tonight." She tugged on her loop scarf, signaling the Force God to continue their sensual delights. Releasing the scarf, Ralem ripped apart the corset with ease, his golden eyes absorbing the sensual sight of her bountiful breasts. "I am yours and you are mine…" She handed Ralem the crystal tribal sun he had given her earlier, a symbol of their new bond… and of their rebirth.

A/N: Hope you guys enjoyed this chapter!

… My God… I have returned with this story after a year! AAAAAAHHHHHHHHH!

In all seriousness, I apologize for taking WAY too long to get this out. But fortunately there is good news, this is the last "filler" chapter before we get into the real meat of the story!

But I think you'll enjoy this little bit of character development for Ralem, and the growing romance between him and Padme, which I think kinda works as the comparison between Padme and Lanoree is a pretty good twist shall we say to explore in a romance.

Ralem's Collective:

Ahsoka Tano, Asajj Ventress, Padme Amidala, Riyo Chuchi, Satele Shan, Shae Vizla, Shaak Ti, Aayla Secura, Luminara Unduli, Barriss Offee, Tiplee, Tiplar, Bo-Katan Kryze, Miraj Scintel, Steele Gerrea, The Daughter, Mina Bonteri, Jarael, Vaylin, Senya Tirall, Sola Naberrie, Breha Organa, Fem Revan, Meetra Surik, Celeste Mourne, Keelyvine Reus, Jaesa Willsaam, Darth Zannah, Visas Marr, Raskta Lsu, Leia Organa, Siri Tachi, Syal Antilles Fel, Rig Nema, Lolo Purs, Mon Mothma, Atris, Fem Anakin Skywalker

Power Scaling-

Solar System to Solar System+ level:

Naga Sadow (with Sith Corsaid and Sith relics through Dark Side Magic)

World Razor (Destroyed 100 stars and 1,000 planets as according to the Rakata ruins and the Failsafe; the full power of the Infinite Empire was needed to defeat it)

Star to Star+ level:

Father

Abeloth

Planet to Planet+ level:

Grand Master Luke Skywalker

Ralem Kyo Solstice (potentially higher to Star level)

Son (Large Planet; possibly Star level)

Daughter (Large Planet; possibly Star level)

Darth Sidious (Small Planet)

Yoda (Small Planet; contained Sidious' lighting for a few seconds)

Valkorion (Small Planet; after the ritual on Ziost)

Darth Nihilus (Potentially if he absorbs enough Force power from said planet, but constant hunger staves off from full use of his power)

Mace Windu (Small Planet with the continued use of Vaapad against his fight with Sidious in ROTS)

Darth Plageuis (Small Planet;severely altered Naboo's climate just by briefly visiting the planet. Per tenants of the Rule of Two, he should at least be comparable to Darth Sidious and has knowledge of the abilities of previous Sith Elites like Exar Kun and Emperor Vitiate)

Moon to Moon+ level:

Sith Emperor/Vitiate

Arcann (Matched and overpowered the Hero of Tython/Outlander)

Thexan (Was considered a bit higher than Arcann himself)

Vaylin

Revan (Possibly; Force visions from Lord Scourge predicted that either Vitiate or Revan could come out on top)

Multi-Continent to Multi-Continent+ level:

Galen Marek/Starkiller (Comparable to Darth Vader; previously Continent level)

Darth Vader (His training as a Sith Lord has noticeably increased his power from his previous peak as Anakin Skywalker; previously Continent level)

Darth Bane

Darth Nihilus (Razed the surface of Katarr and killed all life on the planet sans Visas Marr; Force Drain)

Darth Malak

Darth Plageuis

Count Dooku (One of the most powerful Jedi the Order had ever produced, even before his powers became enhanced by becoming a Sith Lord)

Darth Maul (appears to be comparable to, if not slightly weaker than, Darth Tyranus per Son of Dathomir)

Anakin Skywalker (Surpassed Darth Tyranus at his peak in Revenge of the Sith)

Obi-Wan Kenobi (Telekinetically stalemated a Darth Vader that, while emotionally compromised, was still well above his Padawan self in raw power)

Ki-Adi Mundi (He's a member of the Jedi Council, so he should be comparable to Obi-Wan Kenobi)

Meetra Surik (Managed to defeat Darth Traya)

Shaak Ti (Same as Ki-Adi Mundi)

Aayla Secura (Same as Ki-Adi Mundi)

Plo Koon (Same as Ki-Adi Mundi)

Kreia/Darth Traya

Country to Country+ level:

Ajunta Pall

Satele Shan (Is a peer of Darth Malgus)

Darth Malgus

Darth Sion (Small Country)

Bastila Shan (Small Country)

Island to Island+ level:

Ahsoka Tano

Barriss Offee