The Nut Gatherers

The Nut Gatherers
The Painter's Honeymoon
the polish rider
The Sacrifice of Abraham painting
Nonetheless, he turned to them and insinuated himself into their conversation."The defense systems on Alderaan, despite the Senator's protestations to the contrary,were as strong as any in the Empire. I should conclude that our demonstration wasas impressive as it was thorough." Tarkin turned to him, nodding. "The Senate is being informed of our action atthis very moment. Soon we will be able to announce the extermination of theAlliance itself, as soon as we have dealt with their main military base. Now thattheir main source of munitions, Alderaan, has been eliminated, the rest of thosesystems with secessionist inclinations will fall in line quickly enough, you'll see." Tarkin turned as an Imperial officer entered the chamber. "Yes, what is it,Cass?" The unlucky officer wore the expression of the mouse chosen to bell the cat."Governor, the advance scouts have reached and circumnavigated Dantooine. Theyhave found the remains of a rebel base…, which they estimate has been deserted forsome time. Years, possibly. They are proceeding with an extensive survey of theremainder of the system." Tarkin turned apoplectic, his face darkening to a fine pomegranate fury. "Shelied! She lied to us!" No one could see, but it seemed that Vader must have smiled behind his mask."Then we are even in the first exchange of 'truths.' I told you she would neverbetray the rebellion—unless she thought her confession could somehow destroy us inthe process." "Terminate her immediately!" The Governor was barely able to form words. "Calm yourself, Tarkin," Vader advised him. "You would throw away our onlylink to the real rebel base so casually? She can still be of value to us."