Where there's a will, there's a way.
Recap: A world under siege! The Separatists have launched a massive offense against the planet Ryloth. A blockade of deadly battleships has cut off any support for the dwindling Republic defenses. Though they have fought valiantly with the help of Twi'lek freedom fighter Cham Syndulla, hope is fading for Jedi Master Di and his men, as the droid army closes in.
The planet of Ryloth was under attack as right now there was a massive battle going on. Thousands of droids and tanks were firing at the Republic forces that were being led by the Jedi Master.
"Master Jedi, we're running out of food and water, and our heavy-weapon systems are out of power," informed Cham Syndulla.
"I'll contact our forces in orbit," said Jedi Master Di as he petted the animal that Cham Syndulla was on. "Admiral Dao, this is General Di. We're in trouble down here. We need those supplies immediately."
Up in space, the Republic ships were dealing with their own problems.
"I understand, General, but I am in no position to help," said Admiral Dao. "We are critically low on fuel and ammunition."
"Contact the Jedi Council again!" said the holographic image of Master Di as he was also deflecting some blasts with his lightsaber. "Tell them reinforcements must be dispatched without delay!" The transmission then cut off.
On Coruscant it was nighttime as Admiral Dao had contacted the Jedi Council.
"If help does not arrive soon, the entire Outer Rim garrison will be wiped out." said the Admiral.
The ones to see the message were Jedi Master Windu, Kenobi, Yoda, as well as Luna and Celestia. Seems all five Jedi Masters were trying to think of what to do to help their fellow Jedi who needed help.
"Surely there must be something you can do--" asked Obi-wan.
"The main reactor's been hit, sir. Systems are shutting down. We are dead in space," said one of the crewmen to the Admiral.
"With regret, I report that my fleet will no longer be able to provide protection for the troops on Ryloth." said the Admiral. "I repeat my request that help be sent right away."
"The shields are gone. We have no..." was the last thing said as the transmission cut off, but the sound of an explosion could be heard as the message ended.
All five Jedi Masters had a look of concern. They needed to find some way to help Jedi Master Di as he was being overrun by the enemy.
"What are we going to do? Master Di needs help," said Celestia.
"As much as I hate to say it, I can't send Storm neither Twilight to assist our friend," said Luna to her fellow Jedi.
"Master Yoda?" asked Obi-wan for some insight.
The small green creature simply put his hand to his heart as the Force was sending him a message.
"Hmm. Trapped on Ryloth Master Di and his men are." said the Jedi Master.
A ship was traveling through hyperspace. However, it wasn't just any ship as the person on board belonged to none other than Senator Organa as he had just returned from his latest diplomatic mission. He was being contacted by the five Jedi Masters.
"My trade mission was successful. Thank you for asking," said Senator Organa. "But what's the matter? You all look very somber." stated the man to the Jedi.
"Senator, the fleet protecting Ryloth has been destroyed, and the supply lines have been cut. The troops are out of food, fuel, ammunition," said Obi-wan. "And the civilian population is starving."
"That is grim news." said the Senator.
"Our blockade runners should be able to penetrate the Separatist lines and drop relief supplies," mentioned Mace Windu. "But they do not have the range to reach Ryloth."
"The planet Toydaria is 2,000 parsecs closer than the nearest fleet," stated Obi-wan. "If the blockade runners can supply from there, they might reach Ryloth in time."
"What would you have me do?" asked the Senator as he wanted to help.
"We've dispatched a ship loaded with relief supplies to meet you on Toydaria," stated Celestia. "You're a more experienced diplomat than the representative from Naboo, who is already there."
"Senator Amidala is an excellent negotiator. I am sure--" said Organa.
"Senator Amidala could not leave the Senate. Representative Binks accompanied the shipment," informed Kenobi.
"You must negotiate the treaty so that we can dispatch the ships from Toydaria and get Ryloth the relief supplies it needs," stated Windu to Senator Organa.
"I understand perfectly."
"One more thing, Organa. You'll be having another guest, one that I'm quite sure you're familiar with. Let's say her love for animals, might help to sway the Toydarians to our side." informed Luna.
"Fluttershy? Heh, it's been so long since I last saw her. I can't wait to see her again." said the Senator as he knew the girl from his homeworld and would often play with her when she was just was little.
In another part of space, there were tons of Separatist ships. Onboard the main vessel was Count Dooku as he was meditating. He was soon interrupted by the doors opening as in came two droids.
"This had better be important." said the Sith lord.
"Sire, we've intercepted a coded transmission between Senator Organa and the Jedi Council. We were able to partially unscramble it." said the tactical droid. Dooku's chair now spun as he looked at the droid. "The Jedi have sent Senator Organa to Toydaria to negotiate a treaty which would allow them to send relief supplies to their forces on Ryloth."
"Send a message to Senator Lott Dod of the Trade Federation. I wish to speak to him immediately," said Dooku.
Senator Organa's ship had just exited hyperspace as the planet Toydaria was in their sight. They entered the planet's orbit as the man saw the tower that was home to the King and the citizens of Toydaria. The ship was approaching the landing platform as the ramp opened and he exited to meet some guards.
"Stop where you are, offworlder." said one of the Toydarian guards. "We will provide you with whatever you need to continue your journey, but you may not leave the ship."
"I am Senator Bail Organa of the Galactic Republic. I come to speak with the high exalted king of Toydaria."
"Hello!" said a voice as it got the Senator and the guard's attention.
"Let messa through. Messa on a diplomatic mission." said the person as it belonged to a male Gungan by the name of Jar Jar Binks. "Senator Organa! It's please to be seeing yousa."
"And you, Representative Binks," said Organa bowing.
"Not just messa." said the Gungan as he stepped to the side as behind him were two girls.
One that Organa knew as she had grown since the last time he saw her. For the girl had pale light grayish olive as her skin color and had a pale light grayish rose color in her hair. The one thing that anybody could see when they saw the girl was that she was a shy one, except when it came to talking about animals and keeping them safe. That was when her confidence was shown. As for the other girl, she was a friend of Jar Jar. The most striking feature was the color pink. She had pink skin which was matched by her pink puffy hair and possessed pale light grayish cerulean eyes.
"Fluttershy, my you've grown."
"So good to see you, Organa," said Fluttershy as she hugged the man who lifted her a bit as he embraced her. To her, he was like an uncle as he would always spend time with her when she was growing up on Alderaan.
"Hope you didn't forget about me!" shouted the pink girl.
"Hello, Pinkie Pie." said the Senator as he knew the girl also.
"So good to see you," said Pinkie immediately going for a handshake as she shook the Senator's arm vigorously. "Tell me, did you enjoy the wedding that I planned for you and your wife?"
"Yes, Pinkie."
"And her birthday? Your wedding anniversary?" asked the girl with a big smile and wide eyes.
"You did a good job with all those events." said the Senator as he finally got the girl to stop shaking his arm. "And I appreciate all the parties you throw for me and my wife."
"That's my job. To spread laughter and put smiles on people's faces," stated Pinkie as she gave one last hug to the Senator as Organa just rolled his eyes and returned the embrace from his other friend.
"Well, then. Shall we?" asked the Senator to everybody.
"Our laws of hospitality demand that we offer assistance, but this planet is closed to offworlders." said one of the guards.
"Aw, pretty please. Pretty please with sprinkles on top. I'll throw a special party just for you," said Pinkie trying to persuade the Toydarians, but it didn't phase them.
"We just want to talk, that's all," said Fluttershy.
"We are obliged to deliver our message to your king in person," said Organa as he was backing up his friend. "It won't take a minute." He then proceeded to walk forward with the others following behind him.
Both Pinkie and Jar Jar gave a shrug and smug looks to the guards as they walked past them. Pinkie took it a step further and blew a raspberry at the guards.
"Pinkie," stated Jar Jar.
"Messa coming." imitated the party girl to her friend. She then dashed off leaving behind a cartoonish smoke as the Toydarians guards let out a cough.
"Why does it smell like cotton candy?" asked one of the guards as the smoke cleared out.
The four of them were now in the corridor leading to the throne room as they were discussing some things.
"Hello? Yousa Majesty?" shouted Jar Jar.
"Anybody home?" shouted Pinkie as well.
"Let me and Fluttershy do all the talk, you two, okay?" said Senator Organa.
They all then reached the end of the corridor as they were now in the throne room. Up above sat the Toydarian King as well as the council as they saw the four representatives of the Republic. They all got on a platform as it was raised so that they could talk to the king.
"State your business, offworlders," proclaimed the king.
"Representative Binks of Naboo."
"Representative and certified party planning throughout all of the galaxy, Pinkie Pie."
"Senator Bail Organa of Alderaan, sir. And this is Fluttershy who is also a representative, but also the Republic's leading lady when it comes to protecting the animals of all planets." said the man as all four bowed to show respect.
"We have come to ask for your help," said Fluttershy.
"Perhaps you failed to pay attention to the Senate orientation." spoke the king as it got Fluttershy to hide behind her hair a bit at the tone of the voice. "They should have explained that Toydaria is a neutral system. We are not part of the Republic."
"Yes, Your Majesty. That is why we have come before you as friends," said Senator Organa. "There is a humanitarian crisis on Ryloth."
"Millions will be starvin' and dyin' without your help." chimed in Jar Jar.
"Not to mention nobody is smiling. And if nobody smiles, then there's no laughter or fun. And no fun is well... it's just a horrible thing." said Pinkie.
"My esteemed colleagues and I humbly beg that you allow us to use Toydaria as a staging ground to supply the planet with relief aid." proposed Senator Organa.
"Do not make your decision in haste, your Majesty. There are other factors you might wish to consider," said Senator Lott Dod of the Trade Federation as he made his presence known. He arrived in time as it got our heroes to look at the enemy with some scowls.
"I believe you know Lott Dod, Senator of the Trade Federation." said the Toydarian King as the senator got on another platform.
"Yes, we are acquainted," said Senator Organa. "Senator."
"Beggin' Your Highness, what'sa he doing here?" asked Jar Jar.
"Why shouldn't he be?" stated the king. "Toydaria has an important contract with his Trade Federation."
"The Trade Federation is too chummy with the Separatists for my taste," said Organa.
"We have nothing to do with the Separatists!" exclaimed Lott Dod while pointing at our heroes. "Nute Gunray is an extremist. His views do not reflect those of the Trade Federation."
"Perhaps not. But you can understand the confusion," said Fluttershy.
"We are only here to ensure that nothing jeopardizes the agreement between Toydaria and the Trade Federation," said Lott Dod.
"Naboo and Alderaan have a long tradition of providing humanitarian aid. I see no reason for conflict," stated Organa.
"Nor do I. The people of Ryloth are suffering, and compassion is a sacred Toydarian value." said the King.
"Exactly, you need to show kindness to others," said Fluttershy as the Toydarians were liking the shy girl as she seemed to be the exact type of person who fits their ideals.
"Honesty is also a Toydarian value, is it not?" countered Senator Lott Dod. "I'm sure the Senator and his friends mentioned the Separatist blockade around Ryloth."
"A blockade?" said the King as he was surprised to hear that fact. "Is this true?"
"Well... I mean... does it matter?" asked Pinkie putting on a big fake smile.
"Pinkie!!" shouted Organa and Fluttershy.
"It changes everything!!!" stated the King as he was now hovering in the air as the other members of his council also expressed their discern about the info that was withheld by our heroes. "If the Separatists are blockading the planet and we help the Republic, it will destroy our neutrality. I must convene my ministers. Then we shall hear your agreements."
The king then left with his council as our heroes looked at Lott Dod who just simply smiled.
"Well, that went well," said Pinkie trying to put a smile on everybody's faces but to no avail.
Back on the planet Ryloth, the droids were still pushing forward against the Republic forces. The Twi'leks were taking part with the clones as they were blasting the droids as they were right on top of them. A tank fired a shot as it landed in the trench that the Republic forces were in as it took out most of the soldiers. One of the clones who dodged the blast looked up as several droids stood over him as they pointed their blasters at him and fired as he let out a scream.
"General Di, the right flank has collapsed," said his clone commander. "The droids are closing in on our position."
"What about reinforcements?" asked Cham Syndulla.
"Communication has been spotty," said the commander.
"I promise you, Cham, the Republic will not abandon Ryloth," said Jedi Master Di.
"I've heard enough of your promises, Jedi. The fact remains if we stay here without reinforcements, we're all going to die," said Cham Syndulla. "Gobi, tell the people we're leaving."
"Yes, sir,"
"I don't think you understand. The right flank has collapsed. There's no leaving. We're stuck here together." said the clone commander. But Cham ignored that as he rode off to prep to escape. Master Di looked at his clone commander with an uncertain look.
Back on Toydaria, the king and his council had now returned as they prepared to hear both sides.
"We will now hear arguments in the matter of using Toydarian territory to aid the shipment of relief supplies to the citizens of Ryloth." said the king. "Senator Organa, Representative Fluttershy."
Thank you, Your Majesty." said Organa as he and Fluttershy prepared to state their cases. "The operation the Republic proposes is purely humanitarian. We wish to deliver food and medical supplies to the people of Ryloth."
"But if you won't listen to us, Wise King, listen to Senator Orn Free Taa of Ryloth, who is well aware of the suffering of his people," said Fluttershy as a video message began to play that they hoped would convince the king and his subjects.
"Your Highness, our cities lie in ruins. Our transportation hubs are all but destroyed, so I cannot return home. Our crops burn. The Twi'lek people are starving. And they will die if no aid comes to them. I appeal to you, Great King."
The message from the Senator ended as the holographic image disappeared.
"We must act."
"This is a crisis of planetary proportions."
"We have to do something."
"We cannot let them starve."
All around, mumbles were heard from the council as the King had a look on his face. He wanted to help the citizens of Ryloth, but there was the issue of them being neutral.
"The basic tenents of our morality and even our constitution demand that we help those in need," said a member of the council.
"Those ideals are noble, but we must be careful that our compassion does not draw us into this war," argued another council member.
"Senator Dod, if you please." said the King as he allowed him to present his argument.
"Great King, Senator Organa, and the girl are deceiving you," stated Senator Lott Dod. "The inconvenient fact remains that this is a war, and Ryloth is a battlefield."
A holographic image then played as it showed the many ships orbiting the planet Ryloth as the senator was making his point.
"The planet is under a Separatist blockade because Jedi Knights and clone soldiers are battling the droid army for control of the surface." said the Senator as the next image was a frame still of a clone blasting a droid. "This will not be a humanitarian base. It will be a military base. The Separatist Senate will see it as a violation of your neutrality. That, in turn, will expose the Trade Federation's ships to attacks from the Separatists and force us to cease trade with Toydaria, a situation desirable to no one."
"We cannot--"
"We must consider how it might affect our economy."
Some more muttering was being tossed around. The King was hearing this as he was thinking about what both sides were presenting.
"Your Majesty, the people of Ryloth didn't ask to be invaded," said Senator Organa.
"Please, don't let them suffer because the war came to them. They are simply defending their home. Just as you would if you were invaded." pleaded Fluttershy.
"I sympathize with the plight of the Twi'leks. But this is not about saving them when they are fighting against the Separatists," said Lott Dod.
"Thank you, Senators. You have given us much to consider. I will summon you once I have made my decision." said the King as he dismissed everybody.
Back on Ryloth, things were not looking any better.
"Come on! Hurry, hurry!" said Cham Syndulla as he was telling his people to get to safety.
"Captain, is the gunship ready?" asked Jedi Master Di.
"Yes, sir. But it's too small to evacuate the refugees."
"No escape?" asked Cham Syndulla. "But our families are with us."
"Ah. If we configure the fuel system, we can turn the ship into a big bomb enough to collapse the pass." pointed the Jedi Master with a stick to a drawing in the ground. "The enemy will only then be able to engage us o one front from this ravine. While we provide cover, the Twi'leks will have time to escape with their families over the mountain."
"Brilliant strategy, General." said the clone commander letting out a sigh. "I'll go tell the men."
Everybody was now worried as this was the final stand for Ryloth cause if they didn't get any help. Then no one would make it out alive.
After a while, the King of Toydaria now returned after talking with his council. They called both sides back to the throne room as he now had his final decision.
"After considerate debate, I have made my decision." said the King. "I am sorry, Senator Organa and Representative Fluttershy. But for the sake of my people, Toydaria must remain neutral."
Our heroes had a sad look on their faces to know they failed. Fluttershy let a few tears roll down her cheek as Pinkie's hair deflated at hearing the terrible news.
"A wise ruling, Your Majesty," stated Senator Lott Dod as he had a grin on his face.
Once the decision was made, everybody was dismissed. Organa put his hand on Fluttershy as he hugged the girl who was like a niece to him. Pinkie reached into her hair to pull out something that might cheer everybody up, but all she got was a shepherd's pie. The worst kind of pie, as she threw it away as that was a signal that they failed and lost.
"That did not go well," said Organa as the four of them were walking back to their ship.
"What are weesa gonna do?" asked Jar Jar.
"Hide?" suggested Fluttershy as the Senator put a hand on her shoulder.
"Guess, I'm canceling the party that I had planned," stated Pinkie as her hair was still deflated.
"My friends..." a voice was heard as all four turned around. The person calling out to them was the King as he had something to say.
"Toydaria can not turn a blind eye to the suffering of Ryloth. The Twi'leks are innocent victims caught between warring factions through no fault of their own."
"I'm glad you agree, Your Highness," said Senator Organa. "What are you prepared to do?"
"You may use Toydaria to transfer the supplies you brought with you." said the King.
"But that's only enough food for one, maybe two rotations," said Organa.
"Please, allow us the chance to send more. The people are suffering." pleaded Fluttershy putting on her pleading eyes.
"Pretty please. Cake?" said Pinkie pulled out the sweet treat in her hands and put on the same pleading eyes as Fluttershy.
"I'm sorry girls, it will have to do." said the King as he couldn't grant their request or risk the Trade Federation and Separatist to know that he was going behind his own rules. "And you must guarantee that the Trade Federation will not be able to link Toydaria to the mission."
"Agreed. I have an idea," said Organa.
"Good. Now then, I would like to invite you all to dinner tonight. As a way to compensate for your troubles."
"We would be honored to join you," said Fluttershy to the King's proposal.
"Very well, also..." The King then took the small cake Pinkie was holding as he ate it. He gulped it down as he looked at the pink girl to who he gave a thumbs-up as she smiled. "Bring these desserts with you tonight, I shall like more."
"Cake fixes everything," said Pinkie with a smug look while looking at the fourth wall and gave a wink.
Later that night, our heroes were waiting to meet with the King and the rest of his subjects. Between now and when they last met with the king, Pinkie had created tons of treats for desserts like his majesty requested. But more importantly, Senator Organa had devised a plan.
"Everybody understand?" asked the Senator to his friends to which they all nodded. He then handed some earpieces to both Pinkie and Jar Jar. "I'll signal you both when the ships are ready to depart."
"Weesa won't let you down, Senator," said Jar Jar as he and Pinkie put their earpieces on.
"Pinkie Promise." said the girl as she now began to do her little dance. "Cross my heart, hope to fly. Stick a cupcake in my eye."
At that moment, the door behind them whooshed open. The King and his council were walking down the hall as Senator Lott Dod and his assistant were also present. They then stopped in front of our heroes.
"We're pleased you could join us, Senator," said Organa.
"Your Majesty," said Fluttershy as she and the others bowed in respect.
"The pleasure is mine." stated the King.
"Formal dinners are so tedious," said Senator Lott Dod.
"I am afraid that pressing matters require me and Fluttershy to make immediate contact with Alderaan. But we leave you in the hands of our capable colleagues, Representative Binks and Pinkie Pie." said the Senator.
"We hope you understand," said Fluttershy putting on a sorry face.
"Of course. Anything for someone as cute and loveable as you, Fluttershy." said the King as the girl put on a genuine smile that would make anybody's heart melt.
"Let's go, Fluttershy," said Senator Organa as he began to walk towards the exit.
"We'll be back Pinkie. And try not to go too crazy," winked the girl to her friend as only she and Jar Jar saw it.
"No problem, space rubble." saluted the party girl.
Fluttershy then left to go after Senator Organa as the two zany members of their team were left with the King and his subjects as they all entered the dining room.
On the planet Ryloth, Jedi Master Di, and the citizens were preparing to get the refugees to safety. As for the remaining clones, they were preparing for their final stand against the droids and the Separatists.
"General, we're loading the rest of the explosives onto the gunship." said the clone commander.
"Very good, captain. Ready the men."
"All units, prepare to attack!" said the clone commander to the troops as they were now moving to get into position.
"We won't be able to hold off the droids for long. You'll have to move quickly to get your families out of danger," said Jedi Master Di to one of the Twi'lek people.
He look at his leader as he could see the anger on his face despite having a concerned expression.
"Cham is still angry. He feels betrayed." said the Twi'lek.
"We counted on Republic assistance, and it didn't come. War turns promises into hopes. I wish it wasn't so. Tell him." said Master Di as he extended his hand out.
"I will." said the Twi'lek as he shook the hand of the Jedi Master as he wished him good luck on stalling the enemy for them to escape.
All of the Twi'lek had finished gathering up their stuff. They had now begun to move on the trail as they prepared to escape as the Jedi Master and his clones all went over the plan one final time as the enemy was fast approaching.
"Captain Keeli, tell the pilots to move the gunship into position." spoke the Jedi Master.
"This is command. Are the charges all in place?" asked Captain Keeli through his wrist comlink.
"Copy that. We're all ready. The droid army is closing." said one of the clones as he was on a rock a few meters away from the gunship that was rigged.
"As soon as they're in range, blow up the gunship," said Captain Keeli.
The two clone scouts now began to move away from the gunship as they found a safe spot from the blast radius. They now hide behind some rocks and shrubbery as the droid army was now approaching the pass as they marched.
"There is a gunship blocking our way." said a commander B1 droid. "OM-5, OM-7, go check it out."
"Roger, roger."
The clones in hiding pulled out some binoculars as they saw the two soldier droids approach the ship.
"Careful, it might be full of clones." said one of the droids.
The two droids then slid the door open as they saw the contents inside.
"Uh, no clones. Just explosives." said the other droid casually.
"Explosives?!" said the commander droid.
"Gotcha."
At that moment, one of the clones looking from inside the bushes pushed a denotator. The whole ship was blown to pieces in seconds. It took out the two droids and some of the ones caught in the blast radius. However, the major thing was that the blast was now climbing up the side of the pass as smaller explosions went off in the rocks. Rocks began to fall and they collapsed and then fell in front of the entrance of the pass as it piled on and sealed it completely. Smoke and dust were produced due to the rocks and explosion.
"Halt, halt!" shouted the commander droid. "We cannot get through. We'll have to find another way around."
On Toydaria, the supplies that Senator Organa had with him were prepared. A transport ship had arrived and docked as several clones were loading up the crates onto the ship as time was running out.
"Move those supplies into the transport as soon as possible." said the Senator to the clones. He kept on walking making sure that nothing was going wrong. He soon saw Fluttershy as she was trying her best to lift a crate.
"It's heavy." said the girl as she tried to push the crate but it wouldn't budge.
"Need some help, ma'am?" asked some clones.
"Can you help me move this? If you don't mind, if not, I understand." said the girl hiding behind her hair.
"No worries." said the clones as they now took the crate from the girl. Seems Fluttershy's nature and cuteness were enough to convince the men to help the girl.
"Seems, even now as you're a bit older, you're still timid," said Organa as he looked at his friend.
"I'm just trying to do my part in helping my friends. But more importantly, the people of Ryloth. They're suffering cause of this war. And as much as I hate the violence and the thought of innocent lives being at risk. I also hope for a day where peace can be a thing." said the buttercup girl. "Plus, don't forget all the animals that live on Ryloth and the other star systems. They're just as important as we are."
"With that kind of attitude, I'm glad we have you on our side, Fluttershy. It's why I liked thinking of you as my niece."
"Well, I'm grateful for all you've done for me growing up, Organa. You're like an uncle to me." said the girl as the Senator just rubbed her hair and brought her in for a loving hug. Both smiled as they enjoyed this moment, soon they looked up at the tall tower where everybody else was having dinner.
Inside the dining room, the King and his council member were seated with the Senator of the Trade Federation along with his assistant. As well as both, Pinkie and Jar Jar. Their food had been brought out as the pair was hungry. They saw the food and couldn't help but water at the mouth. Just as they were about to dig in, their earpieces went off as they got the duo's attention.
"Repeat, the ships are ready to launch," said Senator Organa through the earpiece.
"Pinkie, time to do your thing," said Fluttershy to her friend.
Both Jar Jar and Pinkie looked at each other and let out a sigh as they knew that they weren't going to eat.
"Uh, lookie, lookie!" said the Gungan as he and the girl now climbed on the table as it got everybody's attention.
"Since we have dinner, that means we need some music. Lucky me, I got it covered." said the party girl.
She then reached into her hair as she was digging in looking for something. Everybody could hear strange noises coming from the cotton-candy-haired girl as one of them was a cat getting run over. She then found what she was looking for as she pulled out ten instruments all strapped to her back.
"Now then, sit back and enjoy. One and a two and a..." Pinkie then began to play all the instruments as they produced some horrible sounds as it got everybody to make faces. Even the guards covered their ears at the torture they were experiencing. And if you thought it couldn't get worst,..."
"Song time!" shouted the girl.
"Oh no." said everybody in attendance.
No matter what the issue
Come from wherever you please
All this fighting gets you nothing
But hand-and-mouth disease
Arguing's not the way
Hey, come out and play!
It's a shiny, new day
So, what do you say?
"She's not..." said Fluttershy as she and Organa could hear Pinkie singing through the earpiece as the girl was now doing the can-can.
You gotta share
You gotta care
It's the right thing to do
And there'll always be a way
Throoooough!
The song was complete. Everybody was silent and had funny looks on their faces, except for Jar Jar, who was the only one applauding her performance.
"All right, Pinkie Pie! Great song! Meesa like!" said the Gungan as he clapped for his best friend.
Pinkie bowed hoping for more response, but everybody just kept their looks.
"Everyone's a critic." muttered the girl in disdain. She then took off the instruments as they fell on one of the guards as he was buried under all the rubber as he cried for help.
"My turn," said Jar Jar.
"Well, it can't be worst than the girl." said one of the guards as Pinkie overheard and shot a glare.
"Messa proposing a conceptual work of art to honor the ambassador of Trade Federation. Uh, let's see. I'll take that one. Mm-hmm. Uh-oh." said Jar Jar as he picked up the plates everybody was eating and dumped the food on the floor.
"NO!!!!!" shouted Pinkie as she got on her knees and let out a scream. "He had a family!" said the girl at the piece of fruit that was dropped as this was a cruel and unusual punishment. The guards just looked at the girl shaking their heads.
"Meesa sorry, Pinkie," said Jar Jar to his best friend as it was a necessary sacrifice. He then went around collecting the other plates and cups as he didn't bother asking the others if they finished as he now had them in a huge stack.
"Gentleman and gentleman. Here's a try this one. Whoa, whoa, ahh!" said the Gungan as he tried to keep the balance of the stack. "Ah, you thought I was gonna drop..."
He and Pinkie then briefly looked in front of them at the window. The transport ships had just taken off as Senator Lott Dod looked away at the tail end of seeing them fly away. Both of them then began their diversion.
"I... here we go!" said the Gungan stammering a bit as he began to distract.
He flipped some cups as they landed on his foot and he lifted it to catch them. He was balancing them before tossing them onto the table as they landed right-side up. Pinkie then reached into her hair once more as she pulled out a harmonica and began to add some live music to her friend's humming as the two were now doing their job. Jar Jar was tossing some plates into the air as he juggled them. He then tossed them to Pinkie who then did the same as she then tossed them onto the cups as they made a platform. Over and over, it went as it kept one getting higher and higher as the duo had all eyes on them while Pinkie kept on playing.
"I'm spinning it. And one, two, three!" said Jar Jar as the last plate spun on his finger as he then flung it onto the top as all the silverware made an actual sculpture.
Everybody was impressed by what the pair did as they gave them a round of applause. Even Senator Lott Dod's assistant was clapping as it got the Senator to glare as he stopped.
"Thank you very much. There is conceptual art piece. Thank you." said the Gungan as he and Pinkie gave a bow. "Meesa just sharing my Gungan art with yousa and..." At that moment, the last transport ship left Toydaria as Lott Dod missed it once again as the pair smiled, "And wessa."
"What are you two looking at?" asked Lott Dod.
"Messa look at nothing! Oh, no, no, no, messa look at nothing," said Jar Jar trying to divert his attention. "Messa, uh, creating and sharing Gungan ritual style art with Trade Federation..." At that moment, the King pointed to the window behind the duo as they saw the transport ship leave as it was on its way to Ryloth.
"... to promote love and understanding," said Jar Jar.
Senator Lott Dod looked at the other window as he failed to see the ship flying away as did everybody else. Both girl and Gungan smiled as their plan was a success and the ships were now sending supplies to the citizens of Ryloth.
Back on the planet, Jedi Master Di and the last of his clones were in the area waiting for the droids to come. This was their last stand as they had to stall to allow the citizens to escape. Everybody had taken positions as they were willing to make this their final fight.
"Steady. Remember, we have to buy as much time for the Twi'leks as possible." said the Jedi as he walked in the middle and addressed his team.
"Yes, sir." said a clone.
The droids were now in front of them as they were marching. The Jedi turned his lightsaber on as he pointed it at the enemy.
"For the Republic! For the Twi'leks!" shouted the Jedi Master.
That served as the signal as all the clones emerged from behind the rocks and began to blast at the enemy. Both sides were now trading fire as they tried to take each other out. However, the odds were against the Jedi and his clone as there were too many droids and far too few of them. One by one the clones were being taken out as they fell. A droid threw a small bomb as it landed by the feet of the clone commander as he noticed it too late and was thrown back as his helmet came off.
Soon all the clones were taken out as only Jedi Master Di remained as the sole survivor. He cut down some Superbattle droids as he then used the force to push the droids in front of him back. But there was still more coming. He saw the body of his fallen clone commander as he clenched his fist and then turned his attention back to fighting as he was deflecting some blasts.
He was dodging and slicing down the droids one by one, but it was taking a toll on the Jedi as he was running out of steam as there were still several droids closing in. One of the Superbattle droids pointed its arm at the Jedi ready to shoot him when it got hit and fell. This caused the Jedi to look behind him as he saw his clone commander was on his feet and he was still willing to fight.
"Captain Keeli!"
"I'm not finished yet, sir!" said the clone to his General as he could still fight. "We can do this, General!" said the man as both Jedi and clone was now side by side ready to sacrifice themselves.
"Well, let's make the end memorable." said the Jedi as both were now being surrounded.
It took a few shots as Captain Keeli was shot as he let out a grunt before another shot landed on him and this time he was down for good. Another shot hit Master Di in his abdomen as he clutched his side. Even then, he still tried to fight on. At that moment, the comlink on his wrist went off.
"This is Republic blockade runner oh-niner-niner. We have broken through." The Jedi Master now looked up at the sky as he saw the ships as they flew overhead.
"The Twi'leks will live to fight another day." said the Jedi Master as his final words.
He then let out one final scream as he did his best to block the blasts, but there was too much. He was soon shot in the back a few times as he then fell to his knees, and he collapsed onto the ground as his lightsaber fell out of his hand as the Jedi Master laid and was no more.
"The supplies have arrived at the drop point," said Master Di's comlink.
The ship was now ejecting the crates full of supplies as they landed near the Twi'leks who were on the move. They saw the ships overhead as the ejection pods shot out from the ship and landed on the ground a few meters away from them. They all cheered as they raced towards the pod and they opened it.
"It's food and medical supplies from the Republic." said one of the Twi'leks as it got everybody to cheer even louder.
Back on Toydaria, the crew was getting ready to leave.
"Safe journey, my friends." said the King. "I hope when we meet again it is under more pleasant circumstances. And pink girl, thank you for the cake recipe."
"No problem, Your Highness," said Pinkie with a wink as it seemed the Toydarians really liked her sweets.
"Stop right there," shouted Lott Dod.
"You look pale, Senator," said Organa.
"I have just received information that a fleet of Republic ships has penetrated the blockade around Ryloth," said Lott Dod.
"If the Trade Federation has proof of any treaty violation, you're welcome to present it to the full Senate." smiled Fluttershy smugly.
"It takes years for the Senate to decide anything," said Lott Dod.
He then looked at Fluttershy, Organa, and the King as they all just smiled. He looked over at Jar Jar and Pinkie as they just waved. It got the senator to let out an angry look as he left in defeat. He stopped in his tracks as he had his back turned to our heroes.
"You play a dangerous game, Organa. Next time, you will not get away with this. Especially the girl."
"She's not just some girl, she's my niece," said Organa as he looked at Fluttershy as it got her to hug the man he embraced her. With that, he left as our heroes gained a small bittersweet victory.
"The Republic has heart, my friend. But I am not convinced it has the strength to prevail." said the King. "However, after what I witnessed here today, perhaps it is time I reconsider our neutrality. Tell the Jedi that I am open to meeting with them."
"Master Yoda will be glad to hear it," said Organa.
"For now, at least, the people of Ryloth shall endure." said the King.
Our heroes all soon said their goodbyes as they board Organa's ship and prepared to head back to Coruscant. During the trip, they contacted the Jedi Council as they informed them of the King's proposal. Master Yoda wasted no time as he prepared to leave.
In the Jedi Temple, Storm was reading a book. He was soon approached by Twilight as she tapped the boy on his shoulder to get his attention.
"Master Yoda is waiting."
"Bout time." said the boy as he put his book on the table.
He stood up and began to walk when suddenly he felt something. In a moment, Storm now fell to his knees as he clutched his heart.
"Storm!" shouted Twilight as she saw her partner fall to his knees. "Are you okay?!"
"Yeah, I just... felt... a presence..." said the boy as he grabbed his heart as he was hearing what message the Force was telling him. It soon stopped as Storm let out a gasp.
"What is it?" asked Twilight.
"Master Di... has fallen..." said the boy as his voice went soft.
"No," said Twilight as it saddened her to hear the news that another one of them was now gone.
"Another Jedi gone," said Storm as he clenched his fist. "When does it end, Twilight?"
Twilight could see how the loss of their comrade was affecting Storm as he was bawling his fist. She then placed her hand on his as it got his body to calm down as he looked at her.
"Hey, it's going to be alright." said the girl. "Master Di may no longer be with us, but he hasn't abandoned us. Nor have any of the other Jedi that has fallen. Don't let his sacrifice be in vain, he would want us to continue our fight."
"I guess..." said the boy as he took some deep breaths. "Well... I better not keep Master Yoda waiting." He now got up and began to walk towards the door as he prepared to meet with the small creature.
"Storm, don't forget. Nobody is truly gone unless we remember them. So make Master Di and all the other fallen Jedi proud by completing the mission." smiled Twilight.
"Thanks for the encouraging words, Sparky." smiled Storm as he gave a thumbs-up as Twilight returned the gesture. He then left through the doors as he was determined to make sure that the Jedi Master's death wasn't for nothing.