InterGalactic Ore have merged to become Dorvalla Mining, but the Trade
Federation will transport the ore, and will now represent Dorvalla in the
Galactic Senate.
More important, you have a permanent place on the directorate.
Gunray bowed his head. That, too, Lord Sidious.
Then the stage is set for the next act.
May I ask what that will entail?
I will inform you at the appropriate time. Until then, there are other matters
I will see to, to secure the power base of the Trade Federation and to
strengthen your personal position.
We are not deserving of your attention.
Then strive to make yourself deserving, Viceroy, so that our partnership will
continue to prosper.
Gunray gulped loudly. I will do little else, Lord Sidious.
In his lair on Coruscant, Darth Sidious deactivated the holoprojector and turned
to face Darth Maul.
Do you find them any more trustworthy than before?
More frightened, Master, Maul said from his cross-legged posture on the floor,
which may achieve the same end result.
Sidious made an affirmative sound. We are not through with them yetnot for
some time to come.
I begin to understand, Master.
Sidiouss mouth approximated a grin of approval. You did not disappoint me at
Dorvalla, Darth Maul.
My Master, Maul said, slightly bowing his head.
Sidious studied him for a moment. I sense that you enjoyed being out on your
own.
I see, Sidious said slowly. Temper your enthusiasm, my young apprentice. Soon
I will have another task for you to discharge.
Maul waited.
Familiarize yourself with the workings of the criminal organization known as
Black Sun. And while youre doing that, return to your warrior training. Your
lightsaber may very well come in handy for what I require next.
About the Author
JAMES LUCENO is the New York Times bestselling author of two Star Wars The New
Jedi Order novelsAgents of Chaos Heros Trial and Agents of Chaos Jedi
Eclipse. He also coauthored the popular ROBOTECH series with his close friend
the late Brian Daley, and wrote the film adaptations for The Shadow and The Mask
of Zorro. He lives in Annapolis, Maryland, with his wife and children.
Want more Darth Maul? Dont miss Star Wars Darth Maul Shadow Hunter by
Michael Reaves, the full-length print novel available right now wherever books
are sold.
And be sure to look for Star Wars Cloak of Deception by James Luceno, a
full-length print novel of intrigue set in the time just before Star Wars
Episode I The Phantom Menace, on sale June 2001.
For more information please visit the official Star Wars Web site at
www.starwars.com. Sign up now to get free e-mail updates on Star Wars books by
sending a blank e-mail to starwars@list.randomhouse.com.