As it turned out, Caleb had definitely been up for attending the ball as her plus one. In fact, Ahsoka would dare say he was excited about the prospect of spending the night at a party hosted by the most powerful man in the galaxy. Whether that was down to genuine interest in politics, or more of a desire to spend a night away from the strict rules enforced at the Jedi Temple was unknown, but Ahsoka cared little.
All that mattered was that she had someone with her that she'd actually enjoy spending time with, as opposed to simply being alone at the party, surrounded by Senators and other political figureheads.
Once she had secured Caleb's agreement to come along, the two had finished their discussion. No doubt Caleb would have to convince his master to allow him to attend, but Ahsoka doubted that would be too difficult. Depa Billaba struck her as a woman of action, one who was willing to go above and beyond to ensure the safety of the galaxy, as well as the happiness of those around her. If she truly valued her Padawan's learning experience, which from what Ahsoka had seen so far she did, then it made sense for Caleb to attend an event where he might gain hands on experience, especially with something as complicated as galactic politics.
With their call ended Ahsoka had been forced to move onto the second part of planning her night out. She needed some formal wear.
Thankfully, it hadn't taken her long to find somewhere that sold something that would suit the situation. Choosing what to purchase had been a slightly more difficult challenge, mainly due to the constant interruptions from staff members suggesting what she wore. She didn't mind the fact that they were trying to help, what annoyed her was that they assumed what she would like. A pair of the assistants had suggested she go for some sort of revealing dress that would turn heads, something that Ahsoka had never intended to do in her life, and never really wanted to do either. Yes, she had worn some ever so slightly revealing outfits in her life, but she had been young and rebellious, even as a Jedi youngling.
Nowadays she preferred something that didn't stand out, something that put her on a normal level with the rest of the denizens of the galaxy. She wasn't some aristocrat or Senator, she was simply Ahsoka, Palpatine's personal agent.
Plus, the less she stood out, the less chance she had of being recognized by someone from her past, or worse still, by someone who had voted against her innocence.
Eventually, the assistants had gotten the message that she didn't want something that stood out too much, and had instead allowed a third colleague of theirs to take over. This third individual, who was a Togruta like herself, had seemed to understand what she was after instantly. With only a few instructions from Ahsoka the Togruta had found what she was after, a long dark blue dress that covered her entire body from neck to ankle, leaving nothing too exposed aside from her arms, but looking stylish enough to attend a charity event hosted by the Chancellor.
The gown had been slightly expensive, but it made no dent in the several million credits Ahsoka currently had stored in her account courtesy of her work for the Republic. Returning to her apartment with her new purchase, Ahsoka had little else to do but wait for the next day.
That was how she found herself standing before the entrance to the Senate building, the cold breeze of the night beginning to settle in as the sun set in the distance, her gown lightly flowing around her as she waited patiently. She and Caleb had agreed to meet here. After all, he would need her invitation to get into the ball in the first place.
Several minutes passed by and there was still no sign of Caleb. With little else to do Ahsoka simply watched those around her. Groups of individuals of varying species meandered around, enjoying themselves. Whether or not they were invited to the ball was unknown to Ahsoka, thought judging by the lack of formal wear she doubted it. Perhaps they were simply leaving from a hard day at work at the Senate building. No doubt thousands of people worked here.
Continuing her survey, Ahsoka found herself watching out for threats. She wasn't doing so on purpose, but after being trained in the midst of a galactic war some things had just become pure habit. You never knew when there was some assassin or battledroid, or maybe even a bounty hunter out to get you. On instinct, her right hand went down to her leg, gently grasping hold of the hilt of her lightsaber, one that was carefully concealed under her dress. She was being overly cautious, she knew. After all, what could possibly happen at a charity ball that would mean she would need her lightsaber?
Still, she felt better with it on her than not. Again, one might consider it a habit.
"Ahsoka?" The youthful voice of Caleb Dume brought her out of her inner thoughts, drawing her gaze to his form as he approached her.
It only took her a moment to recognize the fact that he was wearing his Jedi robes, as opposed to some other formal wear. Ahsoka only wished that such a thing had been possible for her.
"Hey Caleb. Jedi robes huh?" Ahsoka answered, pulling the young Padawan into a half embrace, one that he returned.
"Yeah, figured it made sense. Not everyday I get asked to be someones security guard at an important ball, much less the personal agent of Chancellor Palpatine!"
"Hang on a minute… do you really think the reason I invited you was to be my bodyguard?" Ahsoka questioned, surprised by Caleb's comment. Had she not explained why she wanted him to come along?
"Well… yeah. Was it not?" Caleb replied, confusion in his eyes as he seemed to shrink before her, as if he thought he was in trouble.
"No! I invited you because I thought it'd be a good learning experience for you about politics. That and if I'm going to be stuck suffering at some Senatorial ball for the night then I at least want someone there to keep me sane." Ahsoka replied, chuckling lightly as realization dawned on Caleb's face.
"Ooooh… so your saying I shouldn't have brought my lightsaber with me?" Caleb's response nearly made Ahsoka laugh aloud, something that was not as common as Ahsoka would have perhaps liked these days.
"Don't worry about it. If anyone asks you are my bodyguard on loan from the Jedi. You'll be allowed to keep your weapon if I vouch for you. Besides, you're not the only one armed." Ahsoka finished, tapping the concealed hilt of her lightsaber whilst throwing a smirk at Caleb, whose eyes widened again in realization.
"Wait… really? You've got your lightsaber on you?"
"Yep. Never know when you might need it."
Having finished their discussion outside, Ahsoka had led Caleb into the hall of the Senate building, following the signs that had fortunately been put up for the guest's convenience. Without them there was a good chance they would have gotten lost in the endless halls.
As the two proceeded to follow the signs it occurred to Ahsoka how quiet it actually was. There were a few people around the various halls, mostly night workers and the occasional messenger, but no one of any real significance. Chances were that all of the important members of the Senate were already at Palpatine's ball. That meant that they were most likely late.
Not that Ahsoka really minded. The less time she had to spend at this thing the better.
Continuing to follow the signs, both Caleb and Ahsoka eventually came across a large set of double doors guarded by two members of the Senate guard, clad in their pristine blue armor. Standing beside them was a well dressed human male, who watched as she and Caleb approached with narrowed eyes, as if suspicious.
"No access is allowed without authorization. I suggest you two kids run along now." The man spoke, his tone annoyed and facial expression sharp. To Ahsoka it wasn't the best first impression.
"I have authorization, from the Chancellor himself." Ahsoka replied, stepping forward to hand the man the piece of paper that was her invitation. Out of the corner of her eye she saw Caleb smile, his signature in the Force bright with excitement. She wished she had the same enthusiasm.
The man practically snatched the invitation from her with a suspicious glare, no doubt expecting it to be a fake. It was clear to her that he thought they were just some children looking for a way to sneak into a high profile event.
Of course that couldn't have been further from the truth… in fact Ahsoka was almost willing to bet that she was of higher standing in society these days than he was. Was he the personal agent of Chancellor Palpatine, one who owned a prestigious apartment at the 500 Republica and had several million credits in the bank for her own use? She very much doubted he was.
"Hmmm, very well. You may proceed, but no funny business. The guards will be watching you." The man spoke, stepping aside with a roll of his eyes to allow the two Senate guards to open the double doors, permitting the guests access.
"Thank you." Ahsoka replied, nodding to the guards in the process, biting the inside of her cheek in order to prevent the snippy comment she so desperately wanted to say from escaping.
The man said nothing back, refusing to even make eye contact as Ahsoka and Caleb strode past him, entering into the large room beyond.
Upon crossing the threshold of the doorway, several things caught Ahsoka's vast senses. The large central chamber they now found themselves in was filled with people of various species, all mingling with one another, endless voices echoing throughout the room as dozens of conversations went on at once.
In the background a soft gentle rhythm of music was being played by a band that was upon a stage, various instruments in their hands as they worked. A smaller clearing was also present before the stage, where several people danced slowly together, no doubt enjoying the night. Beside her she heard a quiet gasp come from Caleb, who was clearly in awe at everything around him.
Continuing her survey, Ahsoka eventually found someone she recognized amongst the crowd. Chancellor Palpatine stood with his back to a large open fountain, quietly talking to some dignitaries with a strained look on his face. From where she was standing it almost looked like he was bored.
As if he had sensed her arrival, Palpatine's eyes glanced over at her, a small smile coming to his face as he excused himself from those in his company, moving through the crowd towards her.
"My dear I am so glad to see you decided to come along. You deserve a night of relaxation after everything the Republic has put you through recently." Palpatine said, his tone warm and welcoming, reaching forward to grasp hold of her hand, squeezing it gently in comfort.
"Thank you Chancellor. It's an honor to be here, even if I'm not too sure I'll fit in." Ahsoka replied, bowing her head in a sign of respect. It may have been her night off, but she would still show the Chancellor the respect he deserved.
"Nonsense my dear, you will find some friends here no doubt. Senator Amidala is around somewhere, I'm sure she will be pleased to see you." Palpatine replied, bowing his head in response to hers, before he turned to address Caleb, who stood beside Ahsoka looking downright terrified.
"Ah, Padawan Caleb Dume was it? A pleasure to see you again. I trust you are well?"
"Yes Sir… I mean Your Excellency, I am. Are you?" Caleb replied, bumbling through his words in a way that almost made Ahsoka laugh.
"I am well young Jedi, thank you for asking. Come, my friend, let me introduce you to some of my fellow colleagues. Ahsoka, do enjoy your night." Palpatine responded, gently wrapping an arm around Caleb shoulder to direct him to a group of fancy dressed people that were no doubt powerful Senators. Having no choice but to obey, Caleb followed.
Watching as Palpatine and Caleb disappeared among the crowd, Ahsoka turned her attention back to finding something to do, or someone to talk to. In a situation such as this she was really out of her depth. Put her in a position where her life was at stake and she was right at home. But put her in one where she was standing with a group of the most powerful people in the Republic and expected to mingle and she had absolutely no idea what to do.
Why had she even come in the first place?
Knowing full well that she couldn't leave moments after she arrived, much les leave Caleb all by himself, Ahsoka decided to simply find someone she knew to talk to. The Chancellor had said that Padmé was here after all.
Slowly moving through the crowd Ahsoka kept her eyes open for anyone that looked remotely like Padmé. Knowing the woman she would have her hair in some sort of weird shape that made it stand out. That would be her telling sign.
At least it was until she saw someone else she recognized, standing over by a long table that had copious amounts of food and drink on it.
A tall man stood with her back to him, obscuring his face, but revealing enough that she could identify who it was. After all, there weren't that many people who towered above practically everyone and wore dark colored Jedi robes that would be in attendance at a party such as this. Chances were he was present as a 'bodyguard' for a certain Senator from Naboo.
Deciding that her best course of action was to sneak up on him, Ahsoka began to move through the crowds, approaching her target in time to see Padmé herself come to stand next to him, her voice speaking to him softly as he picked at the food on the table.
"If you keep stealing the food here, people will think the Jedi don't feed anyone in their temple."
"That's because they don't Padmé. It's all processed rations that taste like nothing, not like the food here."
"But you ate a big exquisite meal last night when I cooked! How can you say you've not eaten well for the past few days when I was the last one to feed you!"
"Hey! I've got to make up for all the time I'm away in the field with Rex and the boys. Besides, I still prefer your food to this. Party food never has any tang to it."
"But you just said…"
"Yeah, it's still better than rations though, hence why I'm eating it. Now if you had cooked everything here yourself I might not be able to stop myself from devouring it all single handedly."
"Oh Anakin… sometimes…"
"Sometimes what…?"
Taking that as a perfect cue to make herself known Ahsoka stepped forward and spoke, a smirk on her face.
"She means that sometimes you can be an incredibly convoluted man who doesn't really know what he wants and just keeps speaking to make himself sound smart, when in actuality he's really dumb."
The sheer speed at which Anakin's head whipped around to face hers nearly made Ahsoka break down into hysterics, especially considering the way his cheeks bulged outwards thanks to the food he was halfway through chewing. Through the Force Ahsoka felt a jolt of surprise at seeing her, followed by one of relief and happiness at her presence. The feeling was mutual.
"Ahsoka! What a pleasant surprise. How are you?" Padmé exclaimed joyfully, coming towards the Togruta with her arms open for an embrace, one that Ahsoka welcomed and returned briefly, before pulling back.
"I'm good Padmé, despite somehow finding myself at this prestigious ball full of people I don't know. How are you?" Ahsoka replied, grateful that her interruption wasn't being considered too rude. No doubt both Padmé and Anakin understood.
"Same here Ahsoka, though it warms my heart to see you so well. I haven't seen you so happy since you left the Jedi Order." Padmé said, her words cautious over the mention of Ahsoka leaving, something that she appreciated. Leaving had been hard, but she was happy now, just as Padmé had said. That was something that Ahsoka had never expected to feel again.
"Since when did the Chancellor invite brats like you to charity balls?" Anakin quipped, his tone teasing, even as he insulted Ahsoka, something that Padmé either did not realize was a joke, or did but still took it seriously.
"Anakin! That's a horrible thing to call Ahsoka. You should apologize right now!"
The way Anakin's eyes widened in surprise at Padmé's statement did make Ahsoka laugh this time, even more so when his mouth began to open and close like a fish.
"What… but I… I didn't mean… It was just a joke Padmé, Ahsoka knows that… right Snips?"
Deciding that it was too good of an opportunity to resist taking revenge on Anakin for his comment, Ahsoka answered, her tone despondent.
"You called me a brat! Why would you do that? I thought we were friends Anakin?"
"What?! No Snips we are… best friends even. I didn't really mean it. I'm sorry, ok?"
"Alright, but you still hurt my feelings Skyguy."
The look of sadness of Anakin's face was something that would usually in turn upset Ahsoka. The fact that it was caused by her teasing however…
"Oh Anakin you take things far too seriously. We were just joking with you." Padmé chose that moment to break the tension, no doubt having figured out what Ahsoka was up to. For someone who wasn't Force sensitive, Padmé had an uncanny ability at sensing what people were thinking. Whether that be from her time as a Queen or a Senator, or from some other experience, Ahsoka didn't know. Still, she was glad that were was someone in Anakin's life aside from herself that could outwit him.
"I swear you two are going to be the death of me one day." Anakin grumbled, annoyed, yet a pleased look on his face, a small smile attempting to stay hidden but failing and emerging on his lips.
"Maybe, anyways to answer your earlier question the Chancellor was kind enough to secure me a pair of tickets to this event on the condition that I enjoy myself and relax for a night. Figured I'd come and see what all the fuss was about. Nice change of pace from my day to day life I must say." Ahsoka explained, moving over to the table of food to examine what was there, and see if anything took her fancy.
"Well it's good to have you here. I hope you enjoy yourself tonight." Padmé spoke first, moving to join Ahsoka at the table, gesturing towards a large plate full of small bite sized pieces of some sort of glazed meat. Taking Padmé's suggestion, Ahsoka picked one up in her hands and popped it into her mouth, chewing gently as she enjoyed the sudden explosion of taste in her mouth.
'Kriff these are good. I can see why Anakin wants to eat all of it.'
"Wait a minute… you said two tickets. Who did you bring with you?" Padmé questioned suddenly, looking at Ahsoka with something in her eyes. It was an odd look, one that bordered on interest and concern, as well as an undercurrent of teasing.
"Oh, just a friend I made from the Temple recently. He's currently been abducted by the Chancellor to be shown around." Ahsoka replied, picking up another piece of the glazed meat, popping it in her mouth in the process before turning to face Anakin, who had an equally odd look on his face.
"It's not that Dume kid is it? I don't like him."
Rolling her eyes for all to see Ahsoka swallowed the chewed up meat before replying.
"Yes actually it is. Caleb expressed an interest in seeing how the politics of the Republic worked, so I thought I'd invite him along. Figured it'd be a good place for him to learn about politics as opposed to being taught in a classroom."
"As long as that's all he gets from this outing then." Anakin's reply was sharp and swift, his head shaking as he moved off to another part of the table to find some more food that was to his liking.
"What did he mean by that?" Padmé inquired as she watched Anakin leave, confusion in her tone. Sighing aloud, Ahsoka explained.
"Anakin's basically going into overprotective dad mode because I'm friends with Caleb. He's under the impression…"
"That you like him, or that he likes you, I see. Do you?" Padmé finished for Ahsoka, her tone light and far less confrontational than Anakin's had been both times this sort of subject had arisen so far. Ahsoka was grateful that there was at least one person who wasn't going to be overly protective and let her go her own way.
"No, not really. He's cool and all but Caleb's got a lot to learn, and I'm still trying to find myself in the galaxy. I'd rather we just be friends. Besides, I'd hate to ruin his chances of being a Jedi Knight in the future… uh, no offense intended." Ahsoka replied truthfully, worried that Padmé might mistake the last part as a quip about her and Anakin's secret relationship.
"None taken Ahsoka. I worry about it too sometimes, but Anakin always says I'm the most important thing in his life, and it's hard not to believe him. He's so passionate about those he cares for… too passionate sometimes." Padmé explained, a soft look on her face as she watched Anakin continue to survey the food along the table.
"Tell me about it. He nearly attacked Wolffe and Jesse the other night for suggesting that I was of age to find a boyfriend or girlfriend! Sometimes I don't think he realizes that I'm not that little girl he met on Christophsis. I'll be eighteen in a couple of months. According to law, I can do whatever I want, within reason of course."
Padmé had a look of understanding on her face as she listened to Ahsoka's words, wrapping an arm around Ahsoka's shoulders, pulling her into a side hug.
"I'll admit that there have been a few times he's come ranting to me about you being reckless and that you're growing up too fast because of the war. While I agree with him on that, I do think that he should let you be your own person, now especially. If that means going out on dates and maybe one day starting a family, so be it. Don't let him stop you."
Nodding her head in appreciation of Padmé's words, Ahsoka replied. "Thanks. I'm certainly not thinking about the whole family thing anytime soon, or ever for that matter, but still, thanks."
The smile on Padmé's face was comforting to Ahsoka, the Force resonating comfortably between the two despite one lacking sensitivity.
And then the atmosphere suddenly changed, all thanks to the voice of another arrival.
"Messa thinkin yousa a grown lady Miss Ahsoka. Yousa re one da messa favourita Jedi."
To most people in the galaxy, the mere sound of Jar Jar Binks' voice was enough to put them on edge. Ahsoka had seen Clones enter a borderline blood-lust state at even the mention of his name. Ahsoka could understand why though. Jar Jar could be a bit much, and rarely ever failed to leave a lasting impression upon people. He was loud and at times obnoxious but he meant well.
She could relate to that in a way. Frankly, if more people in the galaxy were like Jar Jar Binks then the galaxy would be a much happier, if not slightly noisier place.
"Thanks Jar Jar, I'm glad someone other than Padmé realized that I'm not a little kid anymore. How are you doing these days?" Ahsoka questioned, bowing to the Gungun in a gesture of respect, one that he had taught her.
"Missa m bombad. Missa ve been try to negotiata some goody trade relations with da Naboo." The Gungun replied, practically bouncing on his feet in the process.
"Any success?"
"So so. Some progress been made. Not mui though. Me think people hair no liken mesa."
"Ah, who cares what people think about you. At least you are trying to help the galaxy, unlike a lot of other politicians."
In hindsight, that was perhaps not the smartest thing to say aloud, especially in a room filled full of Senators and other dignitaries, but Ahsoka found she cared little. What would they do to her if they heard her anyways? Put her on trial again?
"Tanken for dha support. Mesa goen to get some food now. Bysye byes."
And with that the enigmatic Gungun disappeared, bound towards Anakin, who was still in the midst of trying various foods that were amongst the collection before him. Beside her, Ahsoka heard Padmé sigh, before she too moved to follow Jar Jar and Anakin, her posture one of concern. Ahsoka could understand why. Jar Jar could be a bit of a menace sometimes, especially when he was paired with Anakin.
Deciding that the best course of action was to follow and assist Padmé, Ahsoka began to move forward.
"Ahem."
The sound of someone clearing their throat behind Ahsoka halted her in her tracks. It wasn't a voice she recognized, as much as one could recognize the way different people clear their throats, but whoever it was evidently sought to gain her attention.
Turning on her heel, Ahsoka face the new arrival, a figure who stood far taller than her and was dressed in a pristine looking Republic naval uniform. Upon first glance Ahsoka did not recognize the figure, that was until her examination reached the persons face.
His skin was blue, and his eyes were a bright glowing red, dark black hair covering the top of his head, only just peeping out from underneath the cap her wore.
"Thrawn? Is that you?" Ahsoka doubted herself for a brief second, until the tall Chiss nodded his head. She hadn't seen or heard anything of him since she and Anakin had brought him back from Manaan. Clearly he had been doing well for himself.
"Yes, it is me. Your name was Ashoka, wasn't it?" The Chiss spoke, his words slow and precise, a clear sign that he was still trying to get to grips with Basic as a whole.
"It's Ahsoka, but you were close enough. How are you?" Ahsoka replied, reaching a hand out in a gesture of acceptance, hoping Thrawn would take it.
The Chiss did not respond immediately, his eyes focusing on something distant. Ahsoka could almost see the metaphorical gears turning in his head as he figured out what to say and do next, and how to say it.
Eventually, he reached his own hand forward to clasp around Ahsoka, shaking it lightly before releasing in.
"Close enough is not good enough. I will endev… endevo… try to articulate your name correctly in the future. You were able to pronounce mine correct the first time after all. I should return gesture."
Nodding her head in appreciation, Ahsoka listened as Thrawn continued.
"To answer your question, I am fine. Chancellor Palpatine helped me find a place in your navy, learning from a man named Yularan. He's good teacher."
"Yularen's one of the best. Taught me a few tricks during my time aboard his ship. I likely wouldn't be here without him." Ahsoka said, watching Thrawn's face as she detailed her own experience with Yularen.
"Yes, he showed me a holo… um, a hologram of the Battle of Ryloth. You invented a whole new military tactic?" Thrawn inquired, his eyebrows rising in the process, a contemplative look on his face.
"Oh, the Marg Sabl. Yeah, didn't think much of it at the time. Just sounded like the right thing to do. Yularen gives me too much credit for that one. Anakin too." Ahsoka replied, remembering the blockade above Ryloth. That had been her first real taste of command, and she hated every second of it. She had lost so many pilots that day, and she would never forgive herself for it.
"It was an ingenious move, especially for one so young. Facing the heaviest armor of your ship towards fire whilst protecting your fighters and command deck was inspired. Many of my people would do well to learn from such a tactic."
While it was clear that Thrawn was still struggling to master Basic, Ahsoka had to give him credit where it was due. He had picked up the universal language with ease, and from the spirited way he was analyzing the Marg Sabl tactic Ahsoka could tell he knew what he was talking about. Thrawn had said he held a position in the Chiss military after all.
"Well, at the time I was desperate. I just got lucky really." Ahsoka continued brushing off the praise as best she could. When she was younger she had revealed in being praised, and shrunk away at being reprimanded.
These days she didn't care. Kriff what people thought of her and her actions. She did what she thought was best, damn the consequences. Anakin had taught her that, and Palpatine only seemed to encourage it.
"Do not be so mod… modst… modes…"
"Modest?"
"Yes, modest. You earned that victory, so you should celebrate your success." Thrawn finished, his hands clasped behind his back as he stood tall, bowing before her in what Ahsoka could only assume was a sign of respect.
"Good day Miss Tano. Enjoy the festivities."
And with that Thrawn moved off, heading towards a group of people in the back of the chamber, no doubt to spur up more conversation.
"He is a peculiar fellow isn't he? Fascinating too. I had never heard of the Chiss before meeting him. One wonders how many other undiscovered species there are out there in the galaxy." Palpatine's voice came from behind her, drawing her attention away from the retreating Chiss and towards the man who was the employer. Beside him stood Caleb who had an overwhelmed look on his face as he surveyed everything around him. Through the Force she could tell he wanted to ask so many questions, but was hesitant to do so in the presence of the Chancellor. Ahsoka couldn't blame him. At first the Chancellor had seemed like some sort of monolithic figure to her, untouchable and someone who you could never approach under any circumstances. His friendship with Anakin had always been something of an anomaly to her.
But now, as she had gotten to know Palpatine she realized that her earlier perception couldn't have been further from the truth. He was approachable, and open minded, and always willing to talk, especially if it distracted him from some tedious paperwork. Therefore Caleb had no reason to fear speaking his mind, though Ahsoka could understand why Caleb was hesitant. She wouldn't push him to trust Palpatine until he was ready to.
"He's certainly unique, but if he's learning from Yularen he'll make a fine officer one day." Ahsoka replied, glancing towards Thrawn's retreating back as he moved towards the long table of food, engaging in a discussion with Jar Jar over something. Ahsoka would almost pay to see what they were talking about.
"Indeed he will." Palpatine responded, his own eyes surveying the now animated discussion between Chiss and Gungan.
"Chancellor?" A new voice, one Ahsoka recognized as belonging to the Senator from Alderaan, hit Ahsoka's montrals, drawing the attention of both herself and Palpatine, as well as Caleb who nearly jumped in surprise. Turning to face the new arrival Ahsoka spotted the well respected man moving through the crowd with his wife in tow, both with warm smiles on their faces.
"Senator Organa, how are you my friend?" Palpatine asked, moving forward to clasp hold of the man's hand, before bowing to Queen Breha.
"Very well Your Excellency, I wanted to congratulate you on a successful charity ball. The funds raised will make a tremendous difference for the future of the war ravaged worlds of the Republic." Bail spoke, his tone calm and directed, clearly in politics mode. It didn't escape Ahsoka's attention that his body language was one of deceit, as if he didn't really mean what he was saying.
But… why wouldn't he mean it? Bail Organa was a well respected Republic Senator… wasn't he? He wouldn't work against Palpatine in any way!
"Thank you my friend. If it helps the citizens of the galaxy in this dark time, then I'll gladly host more." Palpatine responded with a smile, one that Bail returned. Once again though, Ahsoka could feel the falseness of it in his eyes. Something wasn't right.
Bail's attention was then drawn to Ahsoka his eyes, widening briefly in surprise as he recognized her. In the pit of her stomach Ahsoka felt like throwing up. This was exactly why she didn't want to come in the first place.
"Padawan Tano? I wasn't expecting to see you here." Bail spoke, offering his hand towards Ahsoka a warm smile on his face. Ahsoka wanted to remind him that she was a Padawan no longer, due in part to the Senate he served.
Palpatine however, beat her to it, and for that Ahsoka was grateful.
"Young Ahsoka has been serving as my personal agent since leaving the Jedi Order, Senator. Surely you have heard of her departure in the aftermath of her being falsely accused of treason?"
Bail's expression was one of surprise as he glanced between Palpatine and Ahsoka, a sense of bewilderment around him as he took in this new information.
"Oh, I hadn't heard. Such a shame, but I am glad you are well Miss Tano. That trial should never have happened."
Rather than waiting for Palpatine to respond for her again, Ahsoka took the initiative.
"Thank you Senator. I'm just glad it's over so I can move on."
"As am I. I always thought you would go far. You remind me of Master Kenobi in a lot of ways."
"A strong compliment considering Master Kenobi's nature." Palpatine spoke again, his tone crisp and polite.
With that Bail and Breha took their leave, moving across the room and towards the front of the stage arm in arm, no doubt intending to dance.
Beside her, Ahsoka heard Palpatine make a noise under his breath, one that she would associate with confusion.
"I find it most peculiar that Senator Organa was treating you with the respect you deserve."
"Why's that?" Ahsoka questioned, now equally as confused. Was the Chancellor implying something about Bail?
"His behavior towards you confuses me because he was one of the Senators to vote you as guilty in your trial. Had Anakin not presented the last minute evidence, Senator Organa would have been partly responsible for you being convicted of treason."
Palpatine's words hit Ahsoka hard. The Senators that had been present during her trial had found her guilty? They were willing to let her be executed?
Bail Organa of all people had found her guilty?
A rush of anger flowed through Ahsoka suddenly, her hands tightening into fists. She wanted to hit something, preferably Bail Organa, but she restrained herself. Getting angry and making a scene would not do her any good.
"Wait, you mean that man thought Ahsoka bombed the Jedi Temple? I don't like him very much." Caleb's voice suddenly broke through Ahsoka's mind, reminding both her and Palpatine that he was present and listening.
"I'm afraid so my boy, in fact many of the Senators here tonight voted against her in the trial. Aside from Senator Amidala, the only Senators who campaigned for her innocence were Riyo Chuchi and Lux Bonteri. They are around tonight my friend. Perhaps you should speak to them?" Palpatine continued, addressing Caleb first with sadness in his eyes, before diverting to Ahsoka for the final part of his comment.
The anger that Ahsoka had pushed down rose back up in an instant. The thought that the room she was standing in was full of people that had wanted her executed made her feel sick. She knew she shouldn't have come to this event.
Taking a deep breath, Ahsoka reached into the Force to try to calm herself down. Getting angry wouldn't help anyone. Maybe she should do as the Chancellor suggested and find either Lux or Riyo to talk to. Hopefully they would be more welcoming than the rest of the room currently felt to her.
Author's thoughts
Well... there's part one of the ball... and so far nothing has gone wrong really, minus one or two uncomfortable situations. (Jar Jar is not included in that. I like the character, so I put him in. If you don't like him that's fine)
Now I could of had something go horribly wrong during the event, like an assassination or something, but I didn't want to. This was a chance to show Ahsoka at an event she wouldn't usually attend and show just how out of her depth she is. Rather than try and mingle with a bunch of random senators, she instead goes on autopilot and finds someone she does know, in this case Padmé and Anakin. Whether or not that's a good thing is for the audience to decide.
As for poor Caleb, he's pretty much been abducted by Palpy this chapter. I wonder why that is? I doubt there is any evil intent here. XD
This chapter also marks the return of Thrawn! He seems to have learnt a few things in his time offscreen. I wanted him to be the guy that is there to learn. Thrawn strikes me as the type of person to just ask endless questions to find out info, and then proceed to do a background check to see how accurate the info he was told was. Having him bring up Marg Sabl was a fun way to connect him and Ahsoka for obvious reasons. XD
As for Bail... sorry dude... but you know... plot and all. I wonder if this will come back later? XD
Not much else to say really. Hope you all enjoyed this longer chapter of dialogue.
Once again, thanks to my beta reader 'ArrinSynders'. Glad your still with me buddy.
Next time round the ball enters part two as Ahsoka searches for her friends.
As usual, comment and speculate at will. Speaking of which:
Dream Plane: A ball with another character will always be fun to write, especially when they are both completely out of their depth. Hope you found it interesting. :)
Juxshoa: Thanks, it's nice to be posting this again. Hope you didn't mind the wait.
60FPS: Thanks. Here's hoping I stick around for a bit.
You seem to be making quite the prediction. I wonder how true it will be? XD
Erukat: Something is definitely clouding the Force for Ahsoka. Don't see why though? I mean... it's not like she is around any dark side influences these days.
Hera would probably have a field day for Caleb/Kanan in a suit (adds idea for future rebels one shot). XD
I hope you liked the outfit I went for Ahsoka. I chose a dress because it was simple and easy to do, but I included Ahsoka's hesitation for wearing a dress as well as I thought that'd be in character for her, especially after the whole Zygerria stuff.
The names you through out are pretty accurate it seems, so I hope you are pleased by that.
However, I will say this now, and sorry if it disappoints you, but there will be no Kaeden in this story. As cool as it would be to write the two of them together in this AU it doesn't really fit the story I'm trying to tell, plus I think it kind of ruins them being together in the Rebels AU if they are in this as well. At this point in time Kaeden would be on Raada with her sister still, so she's alive, but out of the way.
That said I am planning a large Kaesoka drabble collection for my one shot saga to repair the damage done to the ship by a certain other fanfic writer/Tumblr user we are both familiar with, so there's that to look forward to at least. XD
1saaa: Firstly... don't stop with the predictions! I love reading them and seeing what you think might happen. It's great when people figure stuff out without realizing it cause it means the clues I'm leaving are working. Likewise when people are wrong it's awesome to see their reaction to what actually happens. SO far I've loved all of your speculation, so please keep them coming. XD
In regards to Caleb, honestly his first appearance in this story was supposed to be the only one, but because he was so well received as a folly and contrast to Ahsoka, and because I enjoyed writing him so much I decided to expand on his story and character. It's involved some re-planning of later arcs, but he's pretty much become the fourth most important character in the story now. Thus, your speculation on why he's here and what Palpy is up to in the long run by inviting Ahsoka to such an event is pretty important and there are some damn good guesses in there. Only time will tell what will happen.
I'm glad I was able to make your day again with the upload. I'll go as fast as I can but I'm trying to take my time with this story to flesh it out. I'll get it finished one day, it's just might be a while and I might take occasional breaks to go back to my Rebels AU one shots. Hope that's ok. :)