The Clone Wars: Near the End

Chapter Three: Sphere of Influence

Riyo has asked me to come to the Senate. I'm not sure why, but it sounded important. It might have to do with the Separatist blockade of Pantora. If it does, I'm not sure what I can do. It's a Pantoran matter, and as such, the Jedi can't get involved. But still, I get to see my friend again.

I get to the Senate when Riyo is arguing her case with the Trade Federation. Technically, they are recognized as a neutral entity, however, it's an open secret that they actually support the Separatists.

"The Trade Federation is neutral in this, but Pantora must pay its debt before we can resume commerce with the system."

"That is a lie. It is well known that the Trade Federation is aligned with the Separatists," Riyo says.

"Slanderous! We are not Separatists simply because we do business with them. How many times must I remind you of the Commerce Treaty of 1647? The Trade Federation is neutral."

"I beg the Senate to listen to our pleas. Ignore the Trade Federation's feeble attempt to paint this as a domestic financial issue and allow us to resume trade."

The Senate breaks into applause. When the Senators are dismissed, I run down a couple of levels to find Riyo. When I find her, she's talking to aunt Padmé. I only catch the tail end of their conversation though.

"The Senate will force the Trade Federation to resume trade."

"Don't worry, Senator. There's no way that Pantora will ever have dealings with the Separatists. We'll always be loyal to the Republic. I've asked Leeda Skywalker to come, I'm hoping she'll have a few ideas. So I've got to find her, and the Chairman of Pantora has just arrived. I must go brief him as well."

"Please, send him my best wishes."

I stand behind Riyo, and when she turns around, she starts back. I smile at her.

"Sorry, Riyo, I didn't mean to scare you."

"It's all right. I'm assuming you heard why I called you here?"

I nod. "I'm afraid there isn't much I can do. With the Trade Federation technically a neutral entity, the Jedi can't officially get involved. Unless we were asked to be negotiators, and the Council then approved."

"I understand. Well, perhaps you will come up with an idea on how to persuade the Trade Federation to stop the blockade and resume commerce. Commander Fox tells me you've become quite the strategist."

"I'll see what I can come up with."

Riyo invites me to her office, and so I follow her. We get to her office, and the new Chairman of Pantora is there.

"Chairman Papanoida."

"Senator Chuchi." He notices me. "Master Jedi." He then turns back to Riyo. "You spoke well

on behalf of our people today. I only hope the Senate is truly listening."

"As do I, Chairman."

"Allow me to introduce my family. These are my daughters, Chi Eekway and Che Amanwe," they bow, "and my son, lon." He steps forward.

Riyo nods to them, and says, "This is a friend of mine, Leeda Skywalker. I've heard she's become an excellent strategist, and I was hoping she could perhaps suggest a few ideas on how to help commerce resume."

"Any help to Pantora is welcome."

"Father, Amanwe and I are going home. Don't be too late."