Chapter Seven

"Disappointed I am, Ashanti," sighed Master Yoda with a heavy frown. He wasn't the only one and he was gratified to note that Ashanti was looking chagrined because of her actions.

"We did save the miners, Master Yoda," she felt obliged to point out half-heartedly.

"Lame excuse," he snapped impatiently. "Outright break Code you did! Unacceptable this is!" She squared her shoulders, ready to take whatever punishment that would be meted out.

Qui-Gon Jinn and Clea Tari stood behind Ashanti and to her left, having already given their report and taken their own due. Qui-Gon was relieved that it wasn't too serious on their part. They were confined to the Temple for three months. He was actually relieved, for it would give him time to get family affairs in order and do some extra Force training with Clea. Their bond was growing stronger with each passing moment.

Her faith and strength had been what kept him from becoming too worried during her short kidnapping by his cousin. Qui-Gon was gratified to note that she seemed more sure of herself as his apprentice now, more secure in the knowledge that they did indeed belong together. Her doubts were melting away.

Ashanti, though, was in deep, deep trouble. Her only saving grace was that both the Trade Federation and the diplomats gave no ill-reports and actually seemed pleased with the results. Already the trading lanes were clearing up and goods and supplies were reaching their destinations without too much hassle.

The Council was still unimpressed with her method of gaining cooperation.

"Severe the punishment must be, Ashanti," Yoda was growling at his own former padawan. Qui-Gon turned his attention to Ashanti.

"Yes, Master Yoda," she intoned as he had seen her do countless times at countless reprimands.

"We have decided your next assignment more than ample punishment, Master Vende," said Yaddle, another of Yoda's species, though centuries younger.

"Yes, Master," Ashanti intoned again, wincing at what it could be.

"Guard moisture farmers near Gardulla the Hutt's palace on Tattoine from B'Nag the Hutt. Fight over moisture farms causing disruptions in trade on Tattoine. Requested help the farmers have from Supreme Chancellor. Stay there for one month you will and solve problem with them."

Ashanti groaned inwardly. It was the perfect punishment for the Titainien and everyone present knew it. Not only did Ashanti hate Hutts, but it was on a planet guaranteed to drive her daft because of the lack of activity.

"All three dismissed." Yoda waved them away, still upset enough that he was afraid of saying something he would regret later. The two masters and apprentice beat a hasty retreat.

The door closed behind them and Ashanti sagged to the floor. "I will never do something that stupid again, I will never do something that stupid again," she chanted in litany.

Qui-Gon raised an eyebrow at his apprentice, who had a huge grin on her face. "Well, look on the bright side, Ashanti, at least I'm letting you do the nasty stuff on Plumera too."

Ashanti shot him a dirty look. "Thanks, my dear former padawan."

"Thank Mai-Lin. It was her idea. Next time, watch where you stick you tail." Qui-Gon seemed unconcerned by his master's down expression. It wouldn't last long, he knew. Her natural perkiness would bubble up and she'd make the best of it, like she always did.

"Are the Plumerans sure that Ishati is criminally insane? That he won't stand trial?" asked Clea, as the three of them made their way through the twisting corridors of the Temple.

"Yes, he's already in an asylum," sighed Ashanti, tail lashing behind her. "Mai-Lin's status in the family has skyrocketed thanks to your brilliant plan. How did I get volunteered as proxy anyway?"

Qui-Gon laughed. "We knew you'd keep abreast of things anyway. Might as well give you a reason." Qui-Gon stopped and tugged on his apprentice's braid affectionately. "We have things to discuss and you have a trip to prepare for."

Ashanti wrinkled her nose at him. "Thanks a lot."

Qui-Gon and Clea turned to leave, but Qui-Gon turned back. "By the way, next time you organize a family reunion." Ashanti looked at him quizzically. "You might want to invite the head of the family." He winked at his tiny former master and walked away.

Ashanti's laughter followed him as he walked.

HONOR OVER HATE