Ahsoka and the Rebellion – Chapter 2: Meet the Je'har
Chapter 2: Meet the Je'har
As she fired up the twin ion engines of the v1 fighter, Ahsoka Tano decided to give the ship a quick workout. She zoomed into the air, then put it through some basic rolls and dives. It handles well, she thought, while wondering what kind of usage Serra had put it through. She was a capable pilot, but I am superior, as Anakin trained me well. This craft would meet with his approval, I am certain. After inspecting the engines and other details, she concluded its maintenance had been well kept up. Thanks again, Serra … I shall make good use of your "gift" to me.
After deciding she'd seen enough, she checked the fuel gauge and saw there was enough to afford some close-in voyages within the nearby sectors. A quick check of the atlas yielded some interesting possible destinations. The first of these was the planet Vaynai, a watery world known for being a resort spot for those with credits to burn. Then there was Almania, not a terribly hospitable place climate-wise but still much better than Malachor – plus it was already known to Ahsoka as a redoubt for Rebel activity and sympathy. She had discussed it in the past when reviewing strategies with Hera Syndulla, the Twi'lek captain of the Ghost, who had become a trusted friend and ally.
Almania was governed by a clannish group called the Je'har and they were (quietly) hostile to the Empire – or so it seemed – nothing in the Imperial handbook on board the TIE v1 hinted at it. Ahsoka decided to reach out to Hera via her secure channel as the Rebel agent "Fulcrum" and discuss her situation:
"This is Fulcrum, contacting Ghost … do you copy?"
"Ghost here, is it really you, my friend?"
"Absolutely."
"The others will be so happy to know you are still with us …"
"I'm sure they would, but I would prefer you keep this info classified – for now."
"Any problems?"
"A few. I'm not going to go into detail, besides, I'm sure Ezra has filled you in."
"That he has. So what can I do for you, Ahsoka?"
"I'm in need of some advice at this point. I'm considering paying a visit to Almania. Have you an update on their situation?"
"As a matter of fact I do … they are in need of some expertise right now and we are somewhat stretched at this point. Would you like me to arrange a meeting for you?"
"That would be most helpful, my friend."
"How about I contact them and return back to you within the hour?"
"Roger that … I will await. Fulcrum out."
About 30 minutes later, Hera had transmitted a message to the v1 – which Ahsoka had rechristened Shili Avenger (after her home world) – that provided a contact and a clearance credential once she had reached Almania. The message indicated they would be awaiting her arrival. Ahsoka transmitted her confirmation and thanks back to the Ghost.
The trip to Almania would be short – about 45 standard minutes via hyperspace – but long enough for Ahsoka to engage in some meaningful meditation on the journey. She punched in the coordinates, engaged the hyperdrive and then settled back for some needed rest. As a Togruta, Ahsoka was always able to get useful rest in short periods of time. The species originally survived by foraging on their home world, Shili, with its tall grasses and abundant supply of game. But of course, hunters had to grab their sleep while they could and thus the "Shili nap" had evolved as a way to do this. During the Clone Wars, Ahsoka had made extensive use of this tactic while traveling – it kept her fresh and alert.
Soon enough, the ship emerged from hyperspace and the disc of Almania appeared in the forward viewport. The planet seemed gray and forbidding but the sensors indicated abundant life-forms and activity. Ahsoka engaged the com and transmitted to the planet.
"Tirana spaceport, this is Shili Avenger, requesting a landing clearance, over …"
Tirana Control replied fairly quickly: "Greetings, Shili Avenger, please transmit your credentials."
"Roger …"
As she complied, the response was swift:
"We copy you down, Avenger. Welcome to Almania!"
"Many thanks, Avenger out."
She wasted no time in making the landing and following the directions provided to her from Tirana. As she came in, she could see the spaceport was a tidy and efficient-looking place. As the v1 touched down, a greeting party was assembled to meet her. When they saw the ship they were surprised to see that it was an Imperial TIE vessel, but once she had debarked, they were reassured. The leader of the group, a man of about 1.8 metres in height, tan complexion and roughly middle age, stepped forward and bowed to her, which she politely returned.
"Greetings, Commander Tano, I am Shaw Millsap, administrator of this facility."
"It is my pleasure."
"These folks are my team and we are honored to accommodate you and hope your stay here on our humble world will be pleasant and fruitful for you."
"It's an impressive facility – you should be commended on your organization."
"We appreciate that, madam. I have orders to see that you are settled in so that you can prepare for your meeting with your contact – General Ordo, is that correct?"
"Yes it is …"
"Very well, then. We will attend to your ship for you. Are there any requests?"
"Yes, I'd like to refuel …"
"We will take care of that. This way, Commander, if you please …"
There were smiles all around as the members of the greeting party each bowed to her. This is going well so far, she thought. For the most part, the inhabitants of Almania seemed to be humanoid in form. Everything seemed in order, but her senses could detect a slight unease. Ahsoka kept an open mind as they directed her to her accommodations. Before leaving, she sealed the Shili Avenger and gave it a farewell nod.
As they arrived via speeder bus to the destination, she was then led to a well-appointed suite in what seemed like some type of hotel. Shaw Millsap was as helpful as could be, as he clearly understood the importance to his world of her presence. Respectfully, he asked no questions of her other than anything he might do to make her feel at home. She pleasantly thanked him and closed her door and decided to get some more rest. The atmosphere of Almania seemed compatible enough and the climate was better than she had been led to believe. It must be summer here, she thought. She crashed on the bed and quickly fell into a deep sleep.
A few hours later, Ahsoka awakened to a pleasant melody on her in-room com. As she answered it, she was greeted by a soft female voice:
"Good evening, Commander Tano, this is Frehya Lumoxa. I have been assigned as your personal assistant for your visit here on Almania."
"Thank you so much. I am enjoying it here so far."
"That's good to hear. If it pleases you, I'd like to be up to your suite shortly so I may review your activities planned for the evening."
"That will be fine."
Five minutes or so passed and there was a gentle chime at the door. Ahsoka motioned with the Force from across the room to open it. Frehya Lumoxa, a woman of about 50 years of age, with shoulder-length brown hair, soft brown eyes, light brown complexion, and a slim figure, elegantly dressed, entered the room. She immediately curtsied to Ahsoka, who was becoming somewhat embarrassed at all of the obsequious treatment she was receiving from the Almanians.
"Commander Tano, it is my distinct pleasure to meet you."
"As it is mine. May I assume you will be taking me to see General Ordo?"
"That is correct, madam. Might I also be of assistance in providing you some wardrobe for your visit? I would imagine the lady is much in need of something to change into. From the looks of things, you've had a busy time."
At this point, Ahsoka realized she was still in her battle gear, and suddenly felt quite embarrassed – but she was usually good at concealing it. Her lekku became a slight bit bluer in color.
"Your assumptions are correct … what might you have in my size?"
"I think you will find the selections most adequate."
Freyha then pressed a button on her personal com and shortly afterward, another female was wheeling in a rack of garments for Ahsoka to look over.
Ahsoka laughed, somewhat nervously: "I don't know what to say … but thanks!"
"I will give you a few minutes. Then we can bring you up to speed."
The servant wheeled the rack into the bedroom, then left Ahsoka to her privacy. As she stripped down, she decided to put the Sister's circular sabre device under the bed and then stashed one of her white blades under a pillow. She then picked out a dark blue gown and some suitable shoes, and a lovely necklace of some gems she was unfamiliar with – she assumed they were of local manufacture – then went into the bathroom and freshened up as best she could. She was more than grateful for the chance to make a proper appearance and impression as she had the feeling that the man she would be meeting was a person of high importance on this world of Almania. Before re-emerging from the bedroom, Ahsoka strapped on her remaining white sabre – discreetly under her gown around one leg.
Frehya smiled graciously: "The lady appears ready – a beautiful choice, I must say …"
Ahsoka was somewhat taken aback by the compliment, and replied hurriedly. "I try … so tell me about this place, I've never been here before."
"Well, you see our planet is a not a wealthy world but we do believe in hospitality here. You are currently in one of our major cities. Tirana has about a half-million inhabitants, mostly human, but there are a number of off-worlders."
"Any Togruta?"
"I'm afraid not. Your people have not found their way here very often. Those that do are usually just passing through."
"What can you tell me about the general?"
"He is usually a very busy man, but when he heard that you would be paying us a visit, he immediately wanted to slot you into his schedule. You see, Commander, we have some important priorities at this time that you would be most useful in helping us to address …"
"I'm following you …"
"Particularly pressing is the need for upgrading our planetary defense system – and our tactical strike forces."
"I see."
"So, if you please, we have organized a suitable welcome in our main ballroom. There are many here who desire to meet you."
"Lead the way."
As they left the room, Ahsoka quietly Force-locked the entrance as Lumoxa gestured for her to have a seat on an anti-grav repulsor bench that was most comfortable and clearly reserved for honored guests. It was there to take her to the celebration. Ahsoka was genuinely impressed with the service and treatment she was receiving. She figured they must really need her for some as yet undetermined reason.
"I must say, Ms. Lumoxa, that this is a fine establishment. Most luxurious."
"I will be sure to pass your compliment to the management. They will be most pleased."
After a while, they arrived at the lift and then descended to the main floor, whereupon they then floated into the ballroom, to polite applause. As Lumoxa assisted her off the bench, a man in uniform stepped forward to meet her and bowed deeply. Ordo was a large man, about 55 years of age, dark-haired and fair-skinned. His uniform was decorated with a number of various medals and ribbons.
"Commander Tano – it is my supreme pleasure. I am General Shai'k Je'har Ordo, of the Almanian Self-defense Forces, at your service."
" Pleased to meet you, sir."
"And this is Commodore Tri'ku Je'har of our Naval command."
"Commander Tano ..." (he also bows)
The general continued: "The rest of these gentlemen and ladies represent the establishment of Almania and its military command."
"I am indeed honored."
"We humbly offer you the best of our cuisine and hospitality – as a gesture of our sincerity. Almania is a world in need at the current time."
"So I am told."
As the general was seated at the head of the center table, with the commodore at the other end, Ahsoka was invited to take a position on his direct right. They enjoyed a sumptuous feast and she was treated to seafood delicacies imported from the planet Vaynai. It was a grand time had by all and many of the officers present had related to her how beautiful the archipelago on Vaynai was. She started to wonder about the inter-relationship between the worlds of this sector of the Outer Rim Territories. A friendly question was asked about where she was just prior to coming to Almania and she mentioned Malachor. At that instant, the conversation at the table skipped a beat and eyes were looking her way. But the general laughed and said, "I hope they treated you well there." The others then echoed his laugh and the festivities continued.
After a couple of hours, the general and the commodore asked Ahsoka to join them in a private room off the ballroom. As she entered, Lumoxa had prepared a number of displays shown on the walls of the room, including a map of Almania, and star charts of the nearby sectors in the Outer Rim. Ordo was essentially the chief-of-staff for the planet's army and Je'har was in the same position for its navy. Ahsoka realized that they highly valued her presence and she was becoming quite intrigued. The evening went well for them as they succeeded in getting their guest to relax and enjoy the evening. Soon they were on a first-name basis with each other.
Ordo decided to get to the point:
"Ahsoka, the commodore and I are related, as we are of the Je'har family, Almania's pre-eminent clan. Our ancestors were among those who established a civilization here over a thousand years ago. Today we stand at a key moment in our world's history."
The commodore jumped in: "That is correct. Shai'k, we should also let her know how she can help us. Ahsoka, at the current time, our planet is not directly aligned with the Empire but we have a – shall we say – mutually beneficial relationship with them. The scuttlebutt coming from Coruscant is that we are not important enough in the galactic scheme for them to expend resources on us. So long as we mind our own affairs things will proceed smoothly."
Ahsoka took a breath, slowly, and responded: "I see … so I take it you have no representation in the Senate?"
Ordo's answer was quick: "None – nor have we ever requested it."
"It seems like a wise course."
Tri'ku Je'har then spoke. As the leading strategist on Almania, he was expected to lead the discussion. The General would get a word in edgewise at times.
"Ahsoka, please allow me to be blunt – we feel we are dangerously exposed, given the current situation. It would be in our interests to have someone of your level of expertise analyze and review our entire force structure, with an emphasis on readiness."
"I can help with that. In fact, it seems like a reasonable request, given the kindness you have shown me. But might I ask one thing?"
Ordo broke in: "Name it."
"Exactly how did you become aware of my abilities and level of knowledge?"
Tri'ku answered.
"Ahsoka, this may come as a surprise to you, but your name is legendary in some quarters. It was well known among military strategists that I studied with on Raxus that you and General Anakin Skywalker were among the very finest officers the Republic had to offer. Your bravery and dedication to your forces were especially noteworthy. And of course … we also are aware of your prior affiliation with the Jedi Order."
At that mention, Ahsoka's heart skipped a beat. She felt just a slight tinge of unease at this revelation.
"Commodore … er, Tri'ku, I am speechless … anything I did for the Republic … for … the Order … was strictly out of a sense of duty."
Tri'ku chuckled gently, wanting to put their guest at ease: "Of course. Ahsoka, we expect nothing less, as you are a prime example of a fine soldier in every sense of the word."
She rolled her eyes at that … all of this deference was starting to grate on her sensibilities. But she genuinely was growing to like the earnestness coming from the Je'har clan.
The General then summarized: "So, Ahsoka, tomorrow we would like to give you a tour of our facilities and provide you with briefing materials. Then we would also like to propose that you accompany some of our operatives on a short trip over to Vaynai."
Ahsoka was interested, as she had read about that planet briefly from the Imperial handbook and atlas she found on the TIE v1 she "borrowed."
"Is that right … ? What's happening on Vaynai?"
Ordo answered. "They are a world that in many ways is a sister to us, plus they have direct contacts and influence within the Corporate Sector. As you no doubt understand, the Corporations are always of great benefit to small, out of the way worlds such as ours."
Tri'ku added: "We think you would be of great value to us there. The sector has always maintained its independence from the Empire – and the Republic before it. Emperor Palpatine has little desire to expend any significant resources on subjugating it, besides, much of Imperial trade is coordinated for the Outer Rim from there."
"And what of Moff Tarkin?"
"He understands the lay of things. There is little incentive for him to rock the boat, as it were. Tarkin needs to demonstrate his ability to keep things on the Outer Rim running smoothly. The Corporate czars ensure that happens. Plus they have an air of respectability and can help Palpatine keep his promise to get the syndicates under control."
"Even the Hutts?"
The General laughed out loud at that: "Yes … even them."
Ahsoka also laughed heartily. "I just had to ask …"
Tri'ku Je'har then spoke from the heart:
"Lady, we like working with you and we expect a fruitful partnership. Now, enough about what weneed. Surely you have some concerns and requests … yes?"
At this moment, Ahsoka felt things were going well enough that she could then start asking for things. After all, if she was such an honored guest, then she surely had a right to expect that? So she ventured accordingly:
"That's right … well … for starters, I would need a more established residence on Almania, plus a retinue of servants to keep the place in order while I am away, also a demand account – with a modest balance – that I could draw on as needed for expenses and entertaining. Next, I require another ship that would be suitably appointed for one of my new stature. Third, I will require a new identity so that I might travel this galaxy without arousing too much attention – former Jedi do not have it easy these days. I am now to be generally known as Doctor Ashli Tanner, a weapons expert and military strategist, with an academic background from the Imperial Academy and War College."
The Commodore didn't miss a beat:
"I think we can arrange that. But what of your current ship, the TIE v1? Ahsoka, I must tell you we were more than a bit startled to see you arrive on that vessel."
"I would like to keep it under wraps on this planet for the time being. I have a feeling I might be needing it someday. The ship has outstanding capabilities, plus there are a few modifications I would like to make, but I can take care of those in due time. As for my entrance to your world on it, I apologize for any concerns it might have caused."
"So noted. Whatever your reasons for using it, they do not concern us now. We're elated to have you on board with our team here."
As things began to wrap up, Ahsoka and the chiefs of staff exchanged further pleasantries and agreed to meet again in the morning. Frehya Lumoxa then accompanied her back to her suite, which she found exactly as she had left it. Well, that was a most interesting evening, she thought. I could get to like it here. But at the same time, there soon emerged other concerns … what about Vader? Maul? The crew of the Ghost? Her new responsibilities might well cause her to expose herself in ways she had not yet understood. At least she would have the resources she would need to carry out her new role – and a chance to make some potentially valuable contacts.
And overhanging all of these was her desire to continue to aid the Rebellion. It was just going to have to fit in with everything else …
