//------------------------------//
// Chapter 29: Trespass 
// Story: Star Wars: The Great War 
// by ShootingStar25 
//------------------------------//

Arrogance diminishes wisdom.

Recap: Republic outpost overrun! The Jedi have lost all contact with a clone security force stationed on the bleak snow-covered planet of Orto Plutonia. Obi-wan Kenobi, Anakin Skywalker, and Storm accompanied by dignitaries from the nearby moon of Pantora are sent to investigate the disappearance of the clone troopers on the desolate and forbidding landscape.

Several clone ships were shown flying through the snow and wind. They arrived at the base they were tasked to investigate as they landed outside. The gunships opened their doors as out emerged the three Jedi as they were all wearing winter parkas to protect them from the cold. But even then, it was still freezing.

"And this is the planet's tropical zone," said Obi-wan as he emerged and put his snow goggle over his eyes to protect from the snow.

"It's not Tatooine, that's for sure," said Anakin.

"God! Even with this on, I'm still freezing!!!" shouted Storm, he pulled the parka to try to reduce the cold he felt.

"Captain Rex, have your men survey the area. Place as many sensor beacons as you can before dark," instructed Anakin to his clone commander.

"Right away, sir. Unload that gear! Let's move!" shouted Rex to his men as they were exiting from the ships.

"Why would the Republic want an outpost way out here?" asked 3PO as he and R2 had accompanied the Jedi for this mission. R2 gave a beep as he answered his best friend's question. "The Chairman of-- oh!-- Orto Plutonia requested it? But why?"

"General Kenobi," said a voice.

Walking towards them were two Pantorans who were being accompanied by some bodyguards and clones. One of them was the Chairman of Pantora and the other was a girl, however, she was a Senator for the Republic despite her young age.

"Chairman Cho, Senator Chuchi. I suggest you wait here until we secure the area," said the Jedi Master to the two Pantorans.

"I respect your judgment, General Kenobi, but I will go where I choose. This is sovereign Pantora territory," said Chairman Cho.

"I thought this planet was uninhabited, and therefore, it's not aligned," stated Anakin.

"Our moon of Pantora is the only civilization in this system. I'm the one who asked the Senate to protect this planet. This wasteland belongs to us," stated the Chairman with a stern tone.

"With all due respect, Chairman, this is for the Senate to decide, not us," stated Kenobi.

"Ah, but the Jedi report to the Senate, which is Senator Chuchi of Pantora", said the Chairman as he pointed at the young girl next to him.

"Technically speaking, Master Jedi, the Chairman is correct," said the girl as she step forward and spoke in a soft tone. "Since the planet is uninhabited, the moon of Pantora reserves the right to continue as its protectorate."

"Point taken, Senator," said Storm as even he knew what the girl was trying to convey despite her face being not on board with the idea.

"Anakin, Storm, you two stay here with the Senator and the droids while we secure the base," said Obi-wan to his pals.

Obi-wan, the Chairman, and some clones all made their way to the entrance. The doors opened as they all walked in. Upon first sight, they saw something that got them spooked. Inside were some wooden pikes, and on them were the helmets of the clones that they lost contact with. Obi-wan lifted his snow goggles to get a better view as he approached a pike and took the helmet off of it. 

"I don't get it," said Rex as he saw the helmets.

"It must be Separatists," said the Chairman.

"I am not sure," said the Jedi Master.

"Might we go inside, Master Anakin? R2 would like to get out of the cold," said 3P0 to his builder. The Jedi Knight looked at the blue astromech droid as he let out a beep to show he too couldn't stand the weather.

"We'll go outside as soon as Obi-wan signals that it's all safe," said Anakin as he looked back towards the base.

"He'd better hurry, I'm freezing my ass off out here!!!" shouted Storm as he began to rub his arms. He then heard a light giggle as it came from the Senator. "Something funny?"

"Just the way you speak sometimes. You say what's on your mind," said Senator Chuchi.

"Yeah, well, I don't like it when people try to sugarcoat stuff," said the boy as he blew into his mittens in hopes of keeping his body temperature from dropping. "If I may ask Senator, what are your true feelings in this matter?"

"What do you mean?" asked the girl.

"I can tell by your expression when you told us that this planet was in your jurisdiction that you weren't too happy about saying that. Perhaps, that you're against the idea." said the Jedi Knight.

"I mean... it's my duty," said the senator.

"There's a difference between doing your duty and listening to your beliefs. So... which are you listening to now?" asked Storm as it got the girl thinking about what the boy was asking.

Inside the base, Obi-wan and his group had made it to the command center as inside were clones. They all laid dead and frozen from the harsh conditions.

"Do you think the Separatists are building a forward base to attack Pantora?" asked Chairman Cho to Kenobi.

"I don't think we're dealing with Separatists. These computers haven't been touched," said the Jedi Master as he was looking at the consoles.

"Sir, our scouts have spotted a droid base on the other side of the ice ridge," said Rex as he approached Obi-wan.

With that piece of info, Obi-wan made it back to his pals as he relayed the info. They all decided to go check out the Separatist base, however, the Jedi Master told Storm to stay behind.

"Are you sure, Obi-wan?" asked Storm.

"Someone needs to protect the Chairman and the Senator while we investigate. We don't know what or who we're dealing with. Best to not take any chances until we find the cause of this." said Kenobi.

"I understand, I'll do my duty. As a Jedi," said the boy as he bowed to his superior.

"Once we find some clues, we'll contact you," said Anakin.

With that, both Jedi left with Rex and some men as they got into some speeder ships. They powered the engines on as they were now traveling across the snowy plains en route to the droid base. Storm watched his friends disappear as he began to walk with the two droids inside. At least, now he could keep warm.




The Jedi and the clones were zooming across the icy tundra. Snow and sleet could be seen as it was coming down and adding more inches to the amount that was on the ground. Their destination was a droid base that Rex and his men were able to locate when they scouted their own base. They had arrived at the location as they parked their speeders.

"By the look of things, I'd say whoever attacked our base took out the droids also," said Anakin as the pair noticed some more pikes into the ground as the head of battle droids were on it like with the clone helmets at their base.

"Rex, help Anakin place the sensor beacons. You four, come with me," said Obi-wan.

"Yes, General."

"Let's go," gestured Kenobi as he took the clones and entered the base.

Once the pair had finished placing the sensor beacons, Anakin and Rex entered the base. They were walking up a ramp as they saw the bodies of B1 battle droids. Based on their position, it seemed like they were trying to aim at something that entered the base. However, their heads were gone as they had been placed on the pikes outside. Both Jedi and clone saw this as they had a face.

Inside the base, Obi-wan and the clones had done a full sweep as there was no one present. They opened the door that came to a balcony as there were even more pikes that had the head of droids on them. He looked down as he saw Anakin and Rex entering the base. 

"Did you find anything?" asked the Jedi Master to his student.

"I found some large footprints," said the Jedi Knight as he bent down to look at the mark in the snow. 

"Have one of your men make a cast," instructed Kenobi to his apprentice as he left through another room.

The Jedi Master entered a communications room as some clones followed him. He was at the console as Anakin also walked into the room and saw the console. 

"Sensors are in place," said Anakin to his master.

"I think I found something," said Obi-wan as he was pushing some buttons on the console. "Blast it!"

It was having trouble starting up as Anakin hit the thing as it got back online. An image of a droid was projected as it was a recording that detailed what had occurred in the base.

"685 to command. There are too many of them. They've overrun the base. We need reinforcements. Ah!"

The video showed a B1 battle droid firing a blaster. He was walking back as if something was in front of it. Then out of nowhere, it was jumped by a creature as it managed to sneak behind the droid. The video then ended as both Jedi were thinking about the creature they saw.

"What was that?" asked Anakin.

"Whatever it was, it's a good warrior," said Obi-wan as he stroked his beard.

"The droid's log indicates they were investigating the southern canyon," stated Rex.

"Sounds like a good place to start," said the Jedi Master as he put his snow goggles down.

Back at the Republic base, Storm was enjoying the comforts of not having to be out in the cold. After doing a perimeter sweep, he now made it up to the command center to check on the dignitaries he was tasked with protecting. 

"Are you alright, Senator?" asked Storm as he noticed the girl was looking out of the window.

"I want the weapon system back online and the shields operational," said Chairman Cho to the clones. "There's no telling what the Separatists have planned."

"Chairman, what makes you so certain that the Separatists are behind this attack?" asked the girl as she turned to address him.

"Look around, Senator. Isn't this carnage proof enough?" said the Chairman.

"I know, but there are no dead droids here, no blast marks. The clones' injuries were not consistent with what--"

"So, you're an expert on war now, are you, Senator?" interrupted the Chairman.

"No, Chairman. No, I only--"

"She's right," said Storm as he got the attention of the two. "My master taught me a special skill. By using the Force, I can be able to retell events of things that have happened. Sort of like a crime scene being told in mirage images."

"And what did you see!" demanded the Chairman.

"Well, for one, the senator is right. These clones weren't attacked by droids. But rather, some kind of thing. I couldn't make its features out, but that alone tells me that we're not dealing with the Separatists." said the Jedi Knight.

"Either way, this is war. Let me tell you something, Senator. I have led our people since before you were born. I've seen a hundred planets rise and fall through force of arms. If it's not the Separatists out there, then it's a malevolent and aggressive enemy, nonetheless. And I will not let whoever it is, jeopardize the security of the people of Pantora."

"But if the Jedi discover that the Separatists aren't behind this, then perhaps there is a peaceful resolution," said the senator.

"Senator, I am willing to fight and die for my people. It's time to ask yourself if you're brave enough to do the same," scowled the Chairman as he left through the door.

The girl was left with an unhappy look as she was taking in what was said.

"Senator, don't get upset. The Chairman may be too blinded by his arrogance to see the truth. But you aren't," said Storm.

"I appreciate the compliment, Jedi. You asked me why I was here? Was it my duty, or am I listening to my beliefs? I'm still unsure of which one," said the girl as put her head down.

"Hey, chin up. Things are going to work out just fine. You need to have faith," said Storm as he put his hand on the Senator's shoulder as she looked at him. "For what it's worth, I believe in you."

"Thank you," smiled the girl.

At that moment, Storm's comlink started to beep.

"This is Storm, go ahead," said the boy.

"Storm. Anakin and I have found something. Seems the droids were investigating the southern canyon. Get over as quick as you can, we're sending Rex and the rest of the men back to the base."

"Copy that, Obi-wan. I'm on my way," said Storm as he ended the call.

"Well, seems I'm needed, Senator. But hey, don't be discouraged by the Chairman. Once me and my friends find out what we're dealing with, I promise things will have a peaceful solution."

"Do you promise?"

"On my word as a Jedi," smiled Storm as that gesture got the girl to also smile. "Best I take my leave." The Jedi Knight gave a respectful bow to the girl as he was heading towards the door.

"My name."

"Huh?" said Storm as he stopped himself from leaving and looked back at the girl.

"You can call me by name. No need for formalities between us two. I trust you as an ally, but more importantly as a friend," smiled the senator.

"Then... you can me by my name," said the Jedi Knight as the pair let out a small giggle. 

Storm then exited the command center as he had to meet with his pals. He made it down to the hangar as he put his snow goggles over his eyes and turned the engine on. His speeder was now heading towards the coordinates that he was given as he was racing over the snowy plains.


 

He made it to where his pals were as they informed the clones to head back. All three Jedi were now racing toward the destination where the droids were investigating. It didn't take long as they arrived at the canyon and got off. They were now looking through their binoculars as they were hoping to find more clues.

They were looking around as they noticed something.

"There's some kind of reflection up there," said Kenobi as he saw something shiny through his binoculars. "Do you two see it?"

"Yep," replied Anakin as the trio now looked in another direction as the same reflection was shown. Also, like the two shines were sending a message between each other.

"Well, they know we're coming," said the Jedi Master to his pals as he lowered his binoculars.

"That hasn't stopped us before," smiled Storm to his pals.

"Let's go," instructed Obi-wan.

The trio got back on and began to follow along the canyon's line. As they were approaching the narrow pass, above on the cliffs were the creatures that had been watching them. They were the same creatures that had attacked both bases as they saw our heroes. One of them was riding a different beast as it let out a growl.

Once the trio made it past the narrow passage, they came to a bridge as they slowed down. At the end of the bridge, there was a village. It was home to the creatures that had been watching them as they noticed the Jedi getting out of their speeders. The creatures that our heroes saw were large bipeds covered in thick, shaggy white fur with sharp talons capping their five-fingered hands. They possessed four black eyes (the small ones were used for day vision, and the larger ones for night vision) and a small proboscis for feeding and communicating. The creatures began to approach them as Anakin was starting to reach for his lightsaber.

"Steady, Anakin. They're only curious," said Obi-wan to his student. "Let's not provoke them as the droids, and our troops must have done."

All three Jedi put their hoods over their heads as they began to approach the inhabitants. They were soon stopped by two guards as soon the leader of the village appeared. The leader saw them as he instructed the trio to follow him as the guards followed behind them.

"Too bad we didn't bring 3PO along," said Storm.

"How do you plan on communicating with these things?" asked Anakin to his master.

"Patience," said Kenobi to both Jedi Knights. "Maybe they're smarter than we are."

They approached the main hut as the leader now grabbed a pike. He held it up high as it got the Jedi to be nervous a bit. The pike was then stabbed into the snow in front of the trio.

"Well, say something," said Anakin to his master with a smug smile.

"Come on, Obi-wan. Show us why you're the Jedi Master, and me and Anakin aren't," said Storm to his pal.

"Just shut up," said Obi-wan bluntly as he didn't want to hear any sass from his buddies.

They all bowed as the leader made a snarl sound. He then stepped to the side as he gestured for the Jedi to enter the hut. They obeyed the creature's wishes as they entered with it following behind. Inside, the Jedi were all sitting by a fire as there were several more of the creatures all gathering around the flame.

The leader gestured to one of his men as he approached him. In its hand, he had a drawing of sorts as it looked like a battle droid. The leader pointed at it and then bawled his fist. He then let out a cry as the Jedi were watching this.

"Okay," said Storm as he listened to what was said. "No offense, I only got bits of what that was."

"So what'd they say?" asked Anakin as he knew Twilight had been tutoring Storm in languages.

"Again, I don't fully understand. But they mentioned how they encountered the droids and fought them. They appear to be intruders so they took them out. Turns out our men were caught in the crossfire."

"We come to you in peace," said Obi-wan as he was trying to convey his message using hand gestures. "We will not bring harm."

Anakin had grabbed a similar plate by his feet. He now began to draw something as it got the attention of his friends. Once he was done, he turned it around to show the creatures. On the plate was a drawing of two individuals holding hands.

"Peace," said Anakin as he pointed to the drawing.

The creatures made noises as they looked at the Jedi. It was now dark outside as coming through the hut were the Jedi and the creatures. They stood outside of the hut as Obi-wan extended his hand for the thing to shake. Instead, the Jedi Master was now lifted off his feet as he was hugged by the creature as he had a surprised look on his face. Both Anakin and Storm chuckled at seeing the honorable and high esteemed Jedi Master being embraced.

The leader put Kenobi down as all three gave one final bow. They then put their snow goggles down as they got into their speeders and were now heading back to their base. They arrived as the hangar doors opened and the three speeders landed. The clones began to check the ships as they all got.

"Glad you made it back, sir," stated Rex to his commander with a bow. "It's getting nasty out there."

"You don't know the half of it," stated Anakin.

All three Jedi were then approached by the Chairman and the senator.

"What did you find?" asked Chairman Cho.

"It seems we've stumbled onto an inhabited planet," said Kenobi.

"Impossible. Our explorers have spent much time here over the long history of Pantora. No one lives here. They're trespassers," said the Chairman as he wasn't believing the Jedi Master.

"With respect, Chairman Cho, these creatures, the Talz, aren't advanced enough to master space travel. I think they might have been here longer than Pantora," stated Obi-wan.

"Whoever they belong to, they belong to us. This whole system belongs to us!"

"Your Majesty, if there are life forms here, then the Senate must decide jurisdiction," said Senator Chuchi.

"They are savages. Look at what they've done. They've slaughtered your troops!" stated the Chairman.

"They only want to be left alone. The droids attacked them and I'm afraid our outpost got caught in the middle," said Obi-wan.

"They must be subdued. They're dangerous. Captain Rex, prepare your troops for battle."

"We promised their chief there would be no retaliation," said Anakin as he had Rex belay that order with a wave of his hand.

"We arranged a meeting between their High Council and you and the Senator. They want peace," said Obi-wan.

"We can't send troopers. They'll think we lied," said Anakin.

"These creatures are little more than animals. You can't lie to an animal. They can't be trusted!" stated the Chairman.

"But, Your Majesty--" said the girl.

"No, it's obvious these creatures are not covered by the Convention of Civilized Systems. The Jedi Council has no say in the matter."

"If the Jedi are able to communicate with them, their status is in doubt," said Chuchi.

"Do you stand against your Chairman, Senator?" asked the man as he looked to threaten the girl.

"Of course not, Your Majesty," said the girl in a timid tone.

"Hey, jackass! Do us a favor and please just shut the hell up!!!" shouted Storm as he had been listening to all this and had enough.

"Storm!!" shouted Obi-wan as he didn't like his friend for speaking out of turn.

While Obi-wan was unhappy with seeing his friend talk to someone of status like the Chairman, Anakin had a small smile at seeing his friend speak what was on everybody's mind. Even Chuchi cracked a smile at seeing her friend for speaking up.

"Care to repeat that, Jedi?!" said the Chairman as he stared down at the boy.

"It's clear your not listening to a word that's being said. The Talz didn't mean to attack us, they thought our forces were intruders just as the droids were. They simply defended their home, just as you would do if anybody decided to trespass on Pantora. Not to mention that you're ignoring what Chuchi is saying because she's the only one whose thinking with a clear head. She's not blinded by some stupid pride or being stuck her own ass!" stated the boy as he seemed to be defending his new friend.

"Might I remind you that this is adult business. And you are still merely a boy, Jedi. You would do best to remember your place in this hierarchy of power and learn not to but in with matters that do not concern you." stated the Chairman as he scowled at Storm, who returned the gesture.

"If we are going to meet with Thi-Sen and his council at the arranged time, we will have to leave now," said Kenobi hoping to calm things down. As well as it was a ways off to reach their destination.

Our heroes were now prepping their ships for departure. The Chairman was being flanked by his guards as Anakin was behind them. He was soon approached by Rex.

"Sir, the gunships can't take off in this storm. We don't have enough bikes for the entire platoon."

"Have the rest of the men stand by here. No matter what the Chairman thinks, we're not going to war," said Anakin.

Storm was doing some last-minute checks on his speeder when he saw Chuchi approach him.

"Let me guess, you were offended by my language and my behavior to your Chairman," said the boy as he was put his arm on the nose of his ship as he leaned.

"No. I wanted to say thanks. For speaking up and defending me," smiled the girl.

"No problem, Chuchi. Trust me when I say this, I would love nothing more than to kick the Chairman's ass."

"I just wonder if this can be solved with a peaceful solution. One that does require our sides to engage in combat, especially when it's a misunderstanding," said the girl.

"I think we all do," said the Jedi as he put the tools away as he finished his maintenance.

"I just hope this meeting doesn't turn things worst than they already are."

"Somehow, I don't think that might happen, but for you Chuchi, I have faith that things will work out." said the boy as he approached the senator and placed his hand on her shoulder. "Don't worry, everything is going to be fine. You have my word."

"Thank you, Storm. I'm glad to have a friend like you," said the girl with a cute giggle.

"Now, are you all set? Cause you're riding with me. And don't worry, I'll keep you safe," winked the boy at the Senator.

The pair then approached his speeder as he offered his hand for the girl to grab. He lifted her into the backseat as she held on to the boy's waist as he fired up the engine. The hangar doors opened as soon several bikes were shown zooming out and into the dark. Per Anakin's order, some of the bikes and men stayed behind as they watched the others leave. R2 let out a beep as he hoped that his pals would be safe.

The group was traveling across the tundra as they soon arrived at the place where they were supposed to meet the Talz as the sunrise was in the background. They landed and emerged from their bikes. Storm got out first and offered his hand for Chuchi to grab as the girl smiled and was helped from her seat. They joined the rest of their pals as the Chairman was already giving orders to the clones.

"Captain, put your men on that ice ridge," said the Chairman as he pointed. "We will attack as soon as the savages arrive."

"There will be no attack, Chairman!" stated Obi-wan as he was shown walking toward them from behind. 

"You will do as I command! This planet is under my jurisdiction!" shouted the Chairman at the Jedi Master.

"I stand by my point, Chuchi. I would love nothing more than to kick his ass," said Storm, as he whispered to his friend as the girl couldn't help but chuckle and smile.

"Nothing is under your control, Chairman. The Talz are already here," said Obi-wan. True to the Jedi's word, coming from over the hills and behind them were the Talz as they rode on Narglatchs.

"Their scouts have been following us for some time," said Anakin.

"It seems Thi-Sen doesn't trust you any more than you trust him," said Kenobi.

"Can you blame him though?" said Storm with a smug smile as he walked by the Chairman. He extended his arm out for Chuchi as she wrapped hers around him as the pair of friends were laughing at the Chairman's reaction.

Some of the Talz appeared from the snow as they were now surrounding the clones and their speeders. The troopers all had their weapons aimed at the creatures in case things went south.

"Rex, tell your men to stand down," ordered Anakin. "Stay here and don't do anything to provoke them."

"Yes, sir," stated Rex as he got his men to lower their weapons. The Talz saw this as they too backed off a bit.

The Jedi had entered the cave first as they took off their hoods and welcome the chief.

"Your highness," said Obi-wan.

"We have returned..." stated Anakin.

"as promised," said Storm as the trio bowed their heads in respect.

All three then stepped to the side as 3PO made his presence known as he was walking towards Thi-Sen. The yellow protocol droid began to talk with the chief as he spoke their language. While they were talking, the Chairman and Senator were watching the exchange.

"These savages have no right here," stated the Chairman. 

"Chieftain Thi-Sen welcomes you to his home and hopes you come in peace. He wishes to be good neighbors, but he does not wish you to remain on his planet." translated 3PO.

"Listen, droid, translate everything I say and exactly as I say it," said the Chairman as he grabbed the droid.

"Would you like me to represent Pantora in this matter?" said Chuchi as she grabbed Chairman Cho's arm hoping to avoid a conflict.

"Not on your life, Senator!" said the Chairman as he swatted away the girl's hand. "There will be no diplomacy this time." He then pushed 3PO to the side as he got in the face of the chief.

"Listen here, you savage, this world belongs to the moon of Pantora. And as the Supreme Chairman and Exalted Ruler of Pantora, you will not command me to leave this planet or do anything else." said the Chairman as the Jedi and Chuchi had worried looks.

"Your Majesty, we can't," said Chuchi as she got in between the Chairman and the chief Talz.

"Droid, tell him," said the Chairman once again pushing the girl to the side.

"Oh, dear," said 3PO as he wasn't going to like saying this.

"I recommend a less confrontational discussion. The Talz are easily provoked," said Kenobi.

They all heard the chief speak as 3PO finished translating what the Chairman said. They were clinks and sounds as he pointed at the droid and then at our heroes.

"That didn't go over well," said Anakin as he didn't need to understand what was said to know that the chief was angry.

"Chairman, I promised the Talz that we would leave them in peace," said the Jedi Master.

"This is now an internal affair of Pantora," countered the Chairman.

The chief had finished speaking as 3PO turned around and translated.

"The great Thi-Sen, "Sons of Suns", asks again that you leave or it will mean war."

"Then war it is," said the Chairman as he stared at Thi-Sen.

Chuchi heard that as her face had a sad expression. Storm saw this as he put his hand to his friend's shoulder. The girl put her arms around the boy as he gave her a comforting hug. 3PO translated as the chief and his men left as they prepared to set up their attacks. The Jedi were unhappy by what went down as the Chairman and his guards left. The Senator let go of her friend as both saw the Chairman leaving.

"Well... we're fucked," said Storm.




"Troopers, mount up and follow me," said the Chairman to Rex as he had emerged from the cave.

"What's up, General?" asked Rex as he saw the others approach as the Chairman left.

"You're going have to stay with the Chairman until we can work things out. Protect him at all costs," instructed Anakin.

"Mount up! We're moving out!" shouted Rex to his men as he left with the Chairman.

The trio Jedi had approached Chuchi as she had her left hand clutching her right wrist.

"Senator, you know a preemptive strike is illegal," said Anakin.

"Isn't there anything you can do to stop him, Chuchi?"

"I'm afraid not, Storm. He has proclaimed this conflict an internal affair."

"You could petition the Jedi Council for an intervention," stated Obi-wan.

"You mean, without his authorization?" said Chuchi as she didn't like that.

"Sometimes you have to disobey someone's authority, Chuchi. Especially if you're standing up for your beliefs," said Storm.

"There must be someone on your moon who could approve it," said Anakin.

"The Speaker of Assembly. He has the power," said the girl with a smile.

"Let's get back to the base. The storm is letting up. Maybe we can get a transmission through," said Kenobi.

The group now headed towards their bikes as Storm helped the Senator into her seat. They were now racing back towards their base in the hope they could stop the Chairman and his crusade of war on the Talz. As our heroes, were doing that, the Chairman, as well as the clones, were now looking to find the Talz and eliminate them.

They were riding over the snowy wasteland when the Chairman noticed something. He saw in front some Talz on Narglatchs as they were waiting for the Republic forces.

"There they are. Fire when you're in range." ordered the Chairman to Rex and his men.

"Sir, with all due respect, we're only here to protect you," said Rex. At that moment, the Talz riding turned and ran.

The forces kept on zooming as up on a ridge, there was Thi-Sen. He saw his enemies approaching as he gave the signal for his people to strike. Emerging from the snow in front of them, were some Talz as they had their weapons ready for the clones getting closer.

"Ambush!" shouted Rex.

"It's a trap! Kill them!" ordered the Chairman. 

The Talz riding on the Narglatchs charged forward as they tried to hit the bikes the clones were on as they swerved out of the way. The clones began to defend themselves as they fired the guns on their ships and they took out some of the Talz and the creature they were on. Both sides engaged as some clones were taken out by the clubs of the Talz. One clone was knocked off his bike as it went out of control and collided into the canyon as an explosion went off.

Rex saw this as he looked behind him. He then turned his attention back forward as one of the Narglatchs had jumped on his bike. It was starting to crack the window as its mouth was trying to bust it open. Rex then ejected out of his seat as he let his bike continue for a few meters as he landed on the ground. He charged forward as he pulled out his dual blasters as he fired at the creature and the Talz as he took them out. He flipped his bike over as it served as some cover.

"We're surrounded! Defensive formation!" shouted the clone commander as spears were being rained down from above.

The clones and the Chairman all had their ships in a circle connecting as they got out of their bikes. All around from above, spears were being tossed down as some of them took out some clones. 

"Chairman, get down!" shouted of his guards. 

He was unaware of a Talz emerging from a pillar as he ran and hopped over the bike as he slashed and took out the guard who fell in the Chairman's arms. The Talz looked to end the Chairman as he was then shot by his other guard who did his job of protecting the Pantorian. The Chairman was now looking around as he was taking in what was occurring.

"We've got to hold out!" shouted Rex to his men as a spear took out one of their troops.

More Talz charged at them while riding as the clone commander was using his sharpshooter skills to take out as many as he could before they got close. One of them got shot but they were so close to them that it pushed one of the bikes out of the way as their barrier was now exposed.

"Fall back! First squad, cover the retreat!" ordered Rex.

"Retreat? We can't retreat from these animals," said the Chairman. A spear flew over his head as it took out his other guard as the clones were retreating. 

Above, the Talz were still throwing spears as they landed in front of the Republic forces. The Chairman was unaware as a spear hit him in the back as he fell over.

"Savages," said the Chairman as he fell to the ground.

One of the Talz looked to drive the spear deeper when he was tossed by Rex who used his bike to collided with the creature. He then got off and raced towards the Chairman taking out any Talz who came close. He ducked as a spear missed. The clone commander slung the Pantorian over his shoulder as he made his way back to his bike. He then took off as his remaining men were now fleeing.

Back at the Republic base, our heroes were contacting the Speaker of Pantoran Assembly. Obi-wan was seen walking to the gunship that his pals were on as he arrived in time to hear the final verdict.

"The Assembly has decided that the actions of Chairman Cho are out of order. Senator Chuchi, you are given the authority to negotiate a peaceful settlement between the sovereign planet of Pantora and the Talz."

"It is decided then," said Obi-wan.

"Pilot, let's get moving," ordered Anakin.

The gunship they were on and a few others now began to take off. They were hoping to find Rex and the Chairman to end this violence. The weather and the wind weren't as harsh as the ship were able to fly with little turbulence.

With the Republic Forces, they were retreating as they were unaware that the Talz were on the ridge in front of them. The chief gave the signal as he led the charge as they all jumped down.

"Here they come!" shouted Rex.

The Talz now appeared on the path as they raced with the bikes. The chief began to swing his club as he took out any clones that tried to pass him as he let out a war cry. The Jedi and the Senator were almost reaching their allies as they continued over the winter wonderland.

"Senator, now that you have the authority, how do you plan on making peace with the Talz?" asked Obi-wan as they held onto the support straps.

"Actually, Master Jedi, since you're far more experienced, I was hoping you could negotiate on Pantora's behalf," said the girl.

All the Jedi looked at one another with a look.

"I'm afraid that's not possible, Chuchi," said Storm to his friend.

"But I don't understand. The Jedi serve the Senate. I must order you to--"

"Senator, it is your people the Talz are at war with," said Kenobi as he interrupted the girl. "If the violence is to stop, it is you who must represent your people."

"Remember, what I said, Chuchi. You need to stand for what you believe in. And right now, your people need you," said Storm to the girl as she was taking in the words of the teen boy.




The clones were still fleeing from the Talz as they approached a bridge. Two bikes zoomed over it as the bridge collapsed as the two fell to the bottom. Rex saw this as he made his vehicle turn to come to a halt. He got off, as his last three clones also parked in front of him as he told them to take positions. In front, there was a whole line that stretched for miles as they were charging at the last bit of clones. Rex gave his orders using hand signals as the clones nodded. He pulled the body of the Chairman from the bike as he leaned him against the bike as he was still breathing.

The Talz were charging as they threw some spears. Rex pulled out his blasters as he began to walk forward while shooting. He walked in a straight path as he avoided the spears that were landing in front of him. The others were behind the bikes as they provided cover fire. They were taking out the Talz as even the chief looked around to see his men fall. They pressed forward as they were looking to close in. Rex then heard some noise above as he saw the gunships arrive. The sight of the gunships got the Talz to stop in their tracks.

The ships landed as more clones got out and took positions with their weapons aimed at the Talz. The Jedi and Senator emerged as they were walking towards Rex and the injured Chairman Cho. As they were walking, Chuchi saw a clone trooper as he had a spear embedded in its back as it got her to look away in horror. Storm noticed this as he placed his hand on the girl's shoulder as he tried to offer comfort for his friend.

"Good to see you, sir."

"You okay, Rex?" asked Anakin to his clone commander.

"Eh, it's just a scratch," said Rex as he dusted off his shoulder.

"What's going on?" asked Skywalker.

"We're in quite a mess, sir. Eleven dead, the rest wounded, including the Chairman," said the clone.

The Talz held their position as they waited to see what our heroes would do. Chuchi bent down as she placed her hand on the Chairman to check on him.

"Chairman, can you hear me?" asked the girl.

"Senator, good," said the Chairman as he placed his hand on her shoulder. "You must avenge me. As my final command as Chairman of Pantora, I order you to destroy the Talz."

"I'm afraid I can't do that, Chairman," said Chuchi as she removed his hand from her shoulder. "The Pantoran Assembly has called you out of order. I am to negotiate peace."

"No, impossible," said Chairman Cho as he was taking some deep breaths. "Peace? Never!"

His response allowed Chuchi to make an expression.

"I died for our people," said the Chairman. He then slumped over the bike as he took his final breath and was no more. The Jedi and the clones then looked back in front of them as the Talz were still on standby.

"Senator, now is the time," said Kenobi to the girl.

Chuchi understood what the Jedi Master meant as she nodded. She then grabbed the helmet from the Chairman as she got up. She walked forward to Rex as she grabbed one of the spears embedded in the ground.

"Protocol droid, come with me," said the Senator. 

"3PO, get going."

"Yes, Master Ani."

"Jedi Knight, Storm. If you would accompany me?"

"As you wish, Senator," said the Jedi Knight as he bowed in respect and began to follow the girl.

Thi-Sen now saw the trio approach by themselves as he too rode out to meet them. Both sides stood a few meters apart as they looked at each other.

"You got this, Chuchi," said the boy showing his support for his friend.

Thi-Sen then got off his ride as he closed in the distance as he now stood in front of the trio. The Senator held her stare and took a deep breath.

"Droid, translate for me."

"Yes, mistress," said 3PO.

Chuchi then had the staff in her left hand and put it into the snow. It caught Thi-Sen off guard as the girl began to speak.

"To die for one's people is a great sacrifice; to live for one's people, an even greater sacrifice," said the girl putting the helmet on the spear's end. 3PO then began to translate. "I chose to live for my people. What do you choose?"

3PO translated the last bit as they waited for the chief to respond. Thi-She looked at the girl as he pointed at the hat and spoke. He then raised his staff high as it got the girl to be worried. Storm was reaching for his lightsaber to defend the Senator as the Talz was looking to attack her. He brought his spear down as it was stuck next to the one Chuchi put down. At that moment, 3PO spoke.

"He chooses to live as well."

"We will leave Orto Plutonia under the watchful eyes of the Talz from this day forth, and recognize your sovereignty, as a free and equal people."

All four of them bowed in respect. Thi-Sen's forces also began to bow down as did their rides. The chief now turned as he walked back to his side. He got on and gave one final look to the girl as he made a sound. With that, he and his forces now turned around as they were leaving. With peace resolved it brought a smile to the Senator's face.

"You did good, Chuchi. You stood up for what you believed in," said Storm as the girl turned to him as 3PO was walking back to where the others were.

"I should thank you, Storm."

"Please, I didn't do much. It was all you," smiled the boy at the Senator.

"Then please accept this as a token of my gratitude and for being a good friend," said the girl as she approached the Jedi and planted a simple peck on his cheek.

The Jedi Knight simply bowed in respect to the Senator as the pair was now walking back to their troops as Anakin and Obi-wan were ordering the troops to load up. 

"Well done, Senator," said Obi-wan.

"Yes. Most impressive," said Anakin as he walked away.

"Thank you, Master Jedi," said the girl as she began to walk with Storm and Kenobi to their ship.

"Now that you've created peace between your people and the Talz, remember one crucial thing."

"Yes, Master Kenobi?" asked Chuchi.

"Make it last, Senator. Make it last," said the Jedi Master in a serious tone. "And be an example to others so not only this war, but every war waged may come to an end as well."

"I will. I promise you," said the girl to the Jedi.

"We know you will," smiled Storm as he got into the gunship. 

He offered his hand to the girl as she smiled. She grabbed it as he pulled her on board. They all stood as the doors closed. Chuchi was shown having a smile on her face at what she was able to do as she was glad to have some supportive friends. The ship now powered up as it took off as it was taking them back to their base where they would soon leave the planet. The lasting image showed the two pikes in the ground as they formed an X-shape as the Chairman's helmet was still on the end of it.