**Chapter 730: Veils of Diplomacy**
**Scene 1: Kitel-Fard – Spaceport Docking Complex**
Prime Minister Seseg Dorma stood on the observation platform overlooking the primary diplomatic landing pad, arms folded within the sleeves of her formal robes. The embassy ship descending toward them was instantly recognizable: a CR-90 corvette, Corellian Engineering Corporation's Breakthrough Model Ninety. One of the most ubiquitous and adaptable multipurpose vessels in the galaxy.
Despite the Commonwealth's long-standing isolation, the Atrisians monitored galactic developments closely. Dorma knew well that Corellian ships excelled in modularity — open configurations that allowed rapid upgrades and modifications at shipyards or even in the field. The corporation itself had a reputation for independence, often prioritizing profit over ethics. An old CR-70 could be bought for roughly one million credits. Upgrading it to CR-90 specifications added another half million. Smaller, even cheaper variants flooded certain markets.
Particularly pirate markets.
The Commonwealth had suffered regular raids from pirate and slaver fleets operating out of Republic-adjacent space. Twenty years ago, a massive incursion of two hundred twenty-seven vessels — including fifty-nine heavily modified Corellian Sunderers — had nearly breached their defenses. The invasion had been repelled, but at significant cost. With the current Republic-Separatist war escalating, increased pirate activity was all but guaranteed.
The isolationist policy that had preserved Atrisian strength for millennia was a double-edged sword. Pirates struck from Republic territory, yet complaining would place the Commonwealth in diplomatic debt. There had never been formal channels of communication with the Republic — until now.
The CR-90 settled gracefully onto the pad, its pilot demonstrating exceptional skill by aligning the airlock perfectly with the extending ramp. A minute later, a dozen figures emerged in disciplined formation.
Beskar armor. Dark crested helmets. Heavy rifles held at ready. These were not standard Senate Guards. Republic armored commandos — members of the elite Dark Star Fleet. They marched forward with measured precision, then turned in perfect unison to line the ramp, weapons shouldered in ceremonial but unmistakably lethal readiness.
Advisor Ma Yulong leaned closer. "Their soldiers look… more impressive. Ours are suited for parades compared to these."
"Perhaps," Dorma replied softly. "Though they follow the Demon of the Shield."
The ambassadors proper then emerged, accompanied by a small retinue. Seseg braced herself. Holos and reports were one thing. Meeting them in person carried far greater weight.
"Welcome to Atrisia, esteemed ambassadors," she began, stepping forward with practiced grace. "I am Prime Minister Seseg Dorma of the Atrisian Commonwealth. It is my pleasure to receive you."
**Scene 2: Kitel-Fard – Central Administrative Complex**
**Fleet Admiral Dittmar's POV**
The journey from Velovia to Kitel-Fard had been smooth under Atrisian escort. Now, after the formal greetings at the spaceport, their convoy of elegant ground speeders glided along wide, well-maintained highways toward the capital. Six vehicles had been provided for the embassy's use during their stay. Though the delegation would remain aboard their own ship, the transportation was a welcome courtesy. Hotels were virtually nonexistent in the Commonwealth due to extremely limited outside visitors.
The capital itself was breathtaking — immersed in carefully tended greenery. Neat rows of trees, sculpted bushes, and vibrant flowerbeds lined every boulevard. The Atrisians clearly cherished nature as much as they valued discipline.
The negotiations were to take place in one of the smaller halls within the central administrative complex. Tall windows with heavy curtains created a soft, dignified ambiance. Rich wooden furniture and an oval table dominated the center, with two chairs on each side and additional seating along the walls for aides. Blam, Puck, and the other ARC observers remained outside with Captain Panaka's security detail. Ahsoka Tano and Tallisibeth Enwandung-Esterhazy would observe from the side as part of the retinue.
Dittmar and Senator Amidala took their seats opposite Prime Minister Seseg Dorma and Court Advisor Ma Yulong.
The Prime Minister opened proceedings. "Esteemed ambassadors, I propose we first establish the rules of these negotiations."
"I have no objections," Dittmar replied.
"Very well. You have two days to present all proposals you are authorized to make on behalf of the Republic. We will deliberate internally. You will also be granted the opportunity to visit the Imperial Palace and meet with Their Majesties, as well as attend other official functions. After that, we will reconvene to summarize."
Dittmar exchanged a quick glance with Puck, who stood near the door. *Impressive efficiency.*
"Unfortunately," Dorma continued, "a prolonged Republic presence could be used by the Confederacy as pretext for aggression against us."
"That possibility cannot be ruled out," Dittmar acknowledged. "Then let us not waste time."
Senator Amidala spoke with her characteristic poise. "The Republic seeks stronger diplomatic ties. The current complete absence of agreements or communication channels is unsatisfactory for both sides. We propose establishing permanent diplomatic missions — one on Coruscant and one here on Atrisia. Should full embassies prove too bold at this stage, we are open to more limited representations focused on border security and coordination. In return, the Republic will share full intelligence on GAR movements near your borders and CIS activities to affirm mutual neutrality. We are prepared to cover all associated costs."
"An interesting proposal," Advisor Ma Yulong noted. "But is that all?"
Dittmar leaned forward slightly. "Given the current galactic conflict, this agreement would explicitly not constitute a military alliance, as that would inevitably draw the Commonwealth into the war. We would declare formal neutrality with clear clauses justifying non-intervention by your fleet and Assault Corps. The treaty could later be expanded or amended depending on future developments."
"What do you see as the main points of such an agreement?" the Advisor asked.
Dittmar activated a small holoprojector, displaying a regional map. "There are also territorial considerations. Eleven uninhabited systems in the Tash-Komalin Nebula region and one orbital station, *Zima*, which functions as a border outpost. These territories lie within what the Republic considers its space, yet they wedge into the eastern reaches of the Commonwealth."
Prime Minister Dorma studied the map carefully before replying. "Perhaps we could do the Republic a small favor in return?"
Dittmar met her gaze evenly. "We are listening."
The room grew still as both sides weighed the delicate balance of isolationism, security, and the growing shadow of galactic war. Outside, the carefully tended gardens of Kitel-Fard bloomed under the sun, indifferent to the high-stakes negotiations unfolding within.
The Dragon's long diplomatic arm had reached the Commonwealth. Now came the true test — whether ancient pride and modern necessity could find common ground before *Spear of Light* consumed the Core.