Welcome back! In this chapter, I'll really try to move the plot along, instead of focusing on Ahsoka's inner turmoil, but it was necessary to set the stage. I hope you enjoy! R&R, if you would!
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Dinners were easily the most dangerous of political nuances in the eyes of Anakin Skywalker. These senators were clearly versed in them, while Anakin barely managed to engage in the conversation. There were no guns, no tanks, and no armor, but Anakin recognized these talks as a battle all the same, but his military expertise was useless. The politicians knew this as well, for they were more adequately armed than he: they used their words as weapons, their tongues were as sharp as blades and laced with venom. They each had an agenda, although whether it was personal or professional was arguable.
"Think of it as a game of holochess," Padmé had tried to explain to him ages ago. "But not one you can see. The goal is to come to an agreement that benefits the most people without losing your own resources. The more vicious of the politicians are excellent in getting their way because they lie, blackmail, try to use their opponents words against them, all while maintaining an innocent appearance. Just remember, some will do whatever it takes to serve their own agenda."
He may be a Jedi, but these were mind games that Anakin could not play. They all knew the steps to a complicated dance with a fast tempo, while he stuck out like a Bantha. It was all he could do to try and represent the Order accurately, for he had no other agenda. He was a far more simple man than these tactics called for.
"It is imperative that the war ends," the king spoke solemnly. "Far too many lives are lost every day, along with resources and land. The amount of money put toward ending the war on Bharati could cripple our economy. Senator Durante, what say you?"
"My grace, let us not forget why this war started in the first place." Spoke a diplomat towards the head of the table, signifying his importance. "If the western side of your planet hadn't shot down our ships, burned down our warehouse, and threatened our guards, this war wouldn't have started at all. If not for them, you would have the materials your city requires. They are the problem that must be eradicated."
"But these are people, not droids" spoke Padmé, as clear and confident as ever. "We must take into account that they too have needs. The traffic and pollution your factories create has spoiled their crops and led them to near starvation. Your trade with the Westerners only stands to benefit you, while they scramble to save what they have left."
"Well, it's not as if they're forced to farm," he replied back, his eyes narrowed at her. "Wouldn't you say that the well being of Frimatha is more important than some silly plants?"
"It's important, but not more important," spoke Senator Mothma, sensing the tension rising. "If we can find a solution that will preserve the agriculture of the Westerners, while also keeping your factories running and your moon in prosperity, wouldn't you say that would be more ideal solution?"
"I suppose," Durante snapped, sipping his wine.
"The senator is right" spoke Ahsoka, squaring her shoulders as she addressed the diplomats. "A solution benefiting both parties should be the goal. The attacks against your factories and starships proves that the western civilians are desperate. Instead of fighting with them, why not help them?"
"Because, young lady," the Frimathan sneered, "credits simply don't grow like crops do. I must keep the interests of my people as my top priority." Others who sat beside him nodded their agreements, fixing Ahsoka with disgusted looks and disapproving glares.
"My Padawan speaks the truth," Anakin shot back cooly, putting emphasis in his words. "The loss of life should be prevented at all costs. Living in symbiosis is possible, and more economical in the long run. A common goal can be achieved, as the Jedi have witnessed across the galaxy." The looks on their faces changed, some looking to their plates and some shrugging in nonchalance.
Anakin felt a flicker of pride at his Padawan's words. Something had happened to her between their walk and dinner, that much was obvious, but she hadn't let it detract from her negotiation skills. He was the only one who could call her bluff, but the image she portrayed was a far cry from her inner thoughts. She certainly hadn't let their discrimination affect her. He knew how singled out she must feel at the table. So far, the only other Togruti he had seen were servants, and clearly the diplomats treated her as such. He knew she could hold her own, but he put emphasis on the fact that they were Jedi to make it clear: she was not one to be trifled with.
"Both parties give fair arguments," spoke the King, earning the attention of the bickering politicians, "however, what role does the Republic play in this scenario?"
"The republic will provide aid, protection, and resources to the people of the West side," spoke Bail Organa, "and we can help bring this civil war to an end, in exchange for Bharati's allegiance to the republic."
"Frimatha and Bharati have coexisted for thousands of years without outside interference. Why should we let a few farmers with some guns dictate our dealings? If Bharati joins with the Republic, Frimatha will cut all ties with this planet!"
"A shameful lie!"
"Your ball of dust and rock would be nothing without us!"
"Don't forget your place at Bharatii's feet, Durante!"
A chorus of objections rang out, resulting in diplomats standing in their seats. Their eyes blazed in fury, their lips drawn back in individual snarls.
"People, please!" Padmé's voice rang out among the masses. "Surely the people of Bharati do not feel such hatred to the people of their moon? And Senator, surely the people of Frimatha would be more agreeable than this?"
"I've seen what the Republic does when they indoctrinate systems into their corrupt ranks!" He snarled. "Next thing you know, your troopers will be everywhere and will attract the droids, and before you know it we're dragged into the war!"
"In case you hadn't noticed, there's already a war," spoke Senator Ono. "Inaction in this situation is a poor decision."
"Talk like that is more at home with the Council of Neutral Systems, Senator Durante." Mothma addressed the man sternly. "The Republic is extending their help to the people of Bharati who are suffering as we speak. We can bring this war to an end far faster if we cooperate. Do you wish to be the reason thousands die, the only one standing in the way of peace?"
It was then that the fiery Frimathan Senator seemed to realize the wisdom brought forth by the Republic Senators, and how frugal his argument was in comparison. He turned his attention toward his wine, offering no rebuttal save for a nasty glare.
"I say we bring on the final course of the meal, and resume talk when calmer heads arise. I have heard both arguments, and my decision shall take some time to reach. Until then, dessert and drinks all around!"
"If you'll pardon me, my grace, I must excuse myself." Spoke Senator Durante, before he stood from his chair and left the dining room.
Upon his departure, several servants appeared once more, carrying empty trays and collecting dinner plates from the table. Anakin wasn't so sure if he could handle another course- after living off of military rations and instant soups and the like for months on end, hearty meals often didn't sit well with him. His plate, still full by most people's standards, was taken away from him as was his glass of water.
He noticed his Padawan's plate almost matched his own, portions of hardly touched sides and half eaten entrees were lifted away with her still-full glass of water. She noticed him eyeing her plate, and quickly averted her gaze. He felt a prickle of doubt crept along his spine. This type of behavior was concerning, extremely unlike Ahsoka. Typically it was her that had to remind him to eat.
"Ahsoka, please tell me what's going on with you." She looked into his eyes, nearly startling him with the intensity that hers contained.
"I…. I don't know how you do it." She said in a tight whisper, through gritted teeth in a tone so low that he had to strain to hear her. "How these people do it, how anyone does it."
"Do what, Snips?" He said, placing a hand on her shoulder.
"Just...ignore the suffering. The pain. There's so much and I can't do anything." She fixed him with a look full of contempt. A fire blazed in her eyes, startling her master with the passion that she felt.
"Hey, it's alright Snips. Take a breath." She followed his instruction, trying to quell the sudden anger that had taken over.
"Look, I know. I know it's awful. But we're not in a position to do anything, we have to keep our priorities straight." He hoped his words brought her some comfort. He could give her more reassurance later, but the dinner table was not an ideal place to give such a lesson.
"Big picture...I know. But I hate feeling so powerless..."
"Me too, Snips. I know. We can't fix everything, but we're here to try. Remember the Jedi Code, Snips, it will guide you."
There is no emotion, there is peace...
There is no ignorance, there is knowledge…
There is no passion, there is serenity….
There is no chaos, there is harmony…
There is no death, there is the Force….
She took a series of calming breaths, slowly releasing her anger into the Force. She repeated the Jedi Code internally to herself, until all that remained was a calm and collected composure.
"Yes, Master." She complied, though he could still sense her raging emotions. He knew she wasn't going to let it go for some time, but for now, it was a start. Besides, they had plenty of time to talk about it later on. Senator Durante had returned, and he had a feeling that things revolving around politics were about to happen.
Ahsoka noticed the smell before she saw them. The sweet, perforating smell of chocolate filled the room moments before the doors opened, revealing servants with trays full of dessert foods. Soon enough there was a full plate in front of her once more, although her stomach was fuller than it had been in a long time. A crystal goblet was placed in front of her as well, filled to the brim with dark red liquid.
She glanced at her master with a smirk, to find he was looking at her with the same humored expression. Ahsoka raised an eye-marking, questioning him. His only response was a shrug and a wink, signifying his permission.
"My friends, I have had time to carefully consider the options presented to me. All have raised valid points, and many paths have been lain. With the wisdom of the kings of Bharati's past as my guide, I have reached a decision."
With these words, all those at the table were ushered to rise, and following suit, every servant in the room sunk to their knees.
"I, King Laiz of Bharati, say these words in the presence of my guests and my kingdom. The planet of Bharati will join the Galactic Republic." He raised his cup as he spoke. "To a long and prosperous friendship, and to peace on Bharati!"
The words that left the king's lips resonated throughout the gold-plated room, invoking reactions of all types. Some of relief, some of apprehension, and few with unmasked outrage. As the applause and cheers rang out, Ahsoka couldn't help feel a sense of foreboding as she caught the eye of Senator Durante. Something about the look in his eye made her uneasy…. though she couldn't quite place what it was.
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Hey everyone! Sorry this chapter is a bit shorter than the others. I hope you're enjoying the story so far!