Pax Republica - User contributions [en]

A Businessman And a Thrill Addict

2026-03-30T03:16:13Z

Andromeda:

{{Log Header
|Date of Scene=2026-03-21
|Cast of Characters=240, 455
|pretty=yes
|Location=Lower City - Coruscant
}}
{{Poses
|Poses=:'''{{#var:240|Baelin Kalregar (240)}} has posed:'''     The Lower City is dim and rowdy as usual on Coruscanti nights, the streets busy with merchants, thieves, urchins, and other ne'er-do-wells. As is common, Kalregar and some of his crew are drinking and gambling at one of the casinos down here that often attracts the scum and the villainy.     It's a good place to get a few deals, cheat a few of the inexperienced types. Currently, he's sitting at the bar, watching a swoop race on a holopanel near the back wall. A group of rowdy Trandoshans are arguing over bets nearby. 

:'''{{#var:455|Raith (455)}} has posed:''' Raith would usually be down at the swoop races, but she's not in these rounds. So she's found herself down in the casino having passed the merchants and urchins and thieves to get there. Into the casino itself eying the tables where people gamble what little credits they have away hoping to strike it big on just one more round. She'll slide into a seat at the bar with one between herself and Baelin. Eyes drift to the screen as she watches the current race and then scoffs. "Somethin' strong and don't let it go empty..." This said to the barman before eyes go back to the holopanel. "Too far to the left. He's gonna catch his fin on a rock.." Muttered mostly aloud but to herself. 

:'''{{#var:240|Baelin Kalregar (240)}} has posed:'''     The bartender nods. "Comin' right up." the large Devaronian rumbles, going to fetch her a generously sized mug.     Kalregar glances over at her as she comments at the feed on the screen. It seems she has quite the opinion, there.     ...and sure enough, the commentators shout out in excitement when the featured swoop clips the rock and goes spinning out of control, crashing off the side of the track.     "Called it, huh?" Baelin remarks with a chuckle. 

:'''{{#var:455|Raith (455)}} has posed:''' "That's his issue. He's always pulling too far to the left..." Raith comments with a glance over to Baelin and a half shrug offered. "Keep telling him to fix it but men are stubborn idiots on their best days." She looks back to the holoscreen to watch the racer being drug from the remains of his speeder. "Now the next race'll be delayed because they're gonna have to clean his heap of junk off the track." She reaches into a pocket and tosses a pack of cigarillos onto the bartop, taking one out to light. "That kinda mess makes me happy I'm not racing that day." 

:'''{{#var:240|Baelin Kalregar (240)}} has posed:'''     The bartender finishes dispensing Raith's drink, and slides the mug over to her.     Kalregar laughs again. "Ha, well -thanks-, I guess." he remarks dryly at her jab at men, being a man himself. "You race for yourself, for wealthy sponsors, or a bit of both?" he asks. 

:'''{{#var:455|Raith (455)}} has posed:''' "You're welcome." It's said back just as dry while Raith reaches for the mug and takes a long pull. "Well now. That, my friend, depends on the race." She answers almost coyly. "But however I do it. It helps pay the bills and it keeps me happy. Which is a good deal in my book." 

:'''{{#var:240|Baelin Kalregar (240)}} has posed:'''     "Not afraid of losing a limb, eh? Or worse." Kalregar takes a swig of his own drink and turns to her again. "Baelin Kalregar." he introduces himself, and offers a handshake.     "So, you been here a while? Or do you travel?" 

:'''{{#var:455|Raith (455)}} has posed:''' "That means losing." Raith says plainly. "And I don't lose." Another swig of her drink taken while she flicks ashes and takes another drag off that cigarillo. Looking to the hand offered for a heartbeat longer than is courteous before accepting it. "Raith." No last name offered. Perhaps she doesn't have one? "Technically this is home...as odd as that may seem. But I do travel. Gotta keep my name in the circuit somehow..." Another swig of her drink is taken. "And what do you occupy your time with, Baelin?" 

:'''{{#var:240|Baelin Kalregar (240)}} has posed:'''     "Nice to meet ya, Raith." Kalregar replies, nodding. He doesn't seem to mind her staring at the hand before taking it. "Oh yeah? You've never lost? As in, -ever-? How long've you been at this?"     He shrugs at the question. "Oh, all sorts of different things--but I'm a businessman first and foremost. I buy, I sell, I travel." 

:'''{{#var:455|Raith (455)}} has posed:''' "I can't say I've never lost...but at the very least I keep control of my speeder...which is more than I can say for a lot of the others who race." Raith offers this and then shrugs. "Few years now. Long enough to know I love it and not long enough to grow tired of the thrill." Then she grins, flicks ash and smokes more. "Is that so? That kind of talk in this kind of place could make someone wonder just what it is you buy and sell. Traveling must just be a perk of the job." She smirks. "So. What's your best trade right now?" 

:'''{{#var:240|Baelin Kalregar (240)}} has posed:'''     "Think you'll -ever- grow tired of it?" Kalregar asks out of curiosity.     "Oh, you know--mainly the products and services that are hard to come by, and those tend to be the ones that laws don't like." he replies with a smirk. Yeah, he can say that down here. "You make good money on swoop racing?" 

:'''{{#var:455|Raith (455)}} has posed:''' "No. I think I'll grow too old before I grow tired of it." Raith offers, a hint of a smile teasing at her lips. She listens as he skirts around the answer to her question but she actually gives a nod of what seems to be approval. "You sell to big markets or do you keep some supplies for the little guys?" She downs another good bit of her drink. "I make enough." 

:'''{{#var:240|Baelin Kalregar (240)}} has posed:'''     "I go wherever the demand is." Kalregar answers. "Sometimes it's one big market. And other times it's a lot of little guys."     That smile is noticed, but it doesn't surprise him. Not down here. "So you ever in the market for any of those things the laws don't like, you let me know. Or if you're up a little bit of adventure. Get off this planet, go somewhere exotic." 

:'''{{#var:455|Raith (455)}} has posed:''' That last bit puts a slightly bigger smirk on Raith's lips and she actually turns more towards Baelin to give him a bit more of her attention. "I may be in the market for something or things that the laws don't like. Laws are for losers anyway." She offers and then finishes the rest of her drink, pushing the mug back in a silent ask for a refill. "I've been to a few places most people might call exotic...but if you think you can top any of them...I'd maybe be interested in what you've got to offer." 

:'''{{#var:240|Baelin Kalregar (240)}} has posed:'''     "Oh yeah? What kinds of things?" Kalregar probes. "Spice? Slaves? Or are you looking for more services than products? Like someone you need to put on ice."     "That depends on the places you think 'most people call exotic'." he replies to that last part. 

:'''{{#var:455|Raith (455)}} has posed:''' "Which also depends on what places /you/ think are exotic." Raith dances around that subject first with a smirk that turns into a grin. Then she goes back to the other bit. "I might keep you in mind should I ever need someone put on ice..." She offers. "But spice? Now you really have my attention..." 

:'''{{#var:240|Baelin Kalregar (240)}} has posed:'''     "Ha! I dunno. Canto Bight?" Kalregar offers. He might be a touch drunk. "Yeah, you know--spice technically isn't -always- illegal." he remarks offhandedly. "There are medical uses." 

:'''{{#var:455|Raith (455)}} has posed:''' "So exotic - to you - means another place to get drunk and gamble?" Raith asks with humor alighting her eyes for a moment. Then she shrugs. "Yeah. I'm well aware of when it's not illegal...but what I use it for...I can't quite talk my way out of it being...." She pauses, then shrugs again. "Medically necessary." She grabs another cigarillo from the pack and offers the pack to him. "And before you ask, no, I don't use it while racing." 

:'''{{#var:240|Baelin Kalregar (240)}} has posed:'''     "I guess so." Kalregar answers, laughing. "Just the first thing that came I mind I suppose."     "So what do you use it for then, if not racing? And how much do you need?" he asks. "...well, more importantly, how much are you willing to pay for the good stuff?" 

:'''{{#var:455|Raith (455)}} has posed:''' "I mean, to be fair, I was thinking of some place more like Manaan....but then...I'm usually only ever there for the swoop racing. Something about flying over the water's surface is calming." She pauses, takes a drag off her cigarillo. "Even if it's only for ten seconds." There's a longer pause when he asks what she uses it for and then she smirks. "Meditation." Before she gives him a sort of up and down look and then turns more towards the bar. "In a perfect world you could get me a couple doses of glitterstim and I could make it worth your while. So let's say I've got...five thousand...burning a spice-hole in my pocket. Could you work with that?" 

:'''{{#var:240|Baelin Kalregar (240)}} has posed:'''     "Flying over the water in a swoop, huh?" Kalregar chuckles, envisioning that. "You really are a thrill addict." he laughs.     "Meditation? Like the Jedi?" That was about the last thing he was expecting her to say. "From a swoop racing adrenaline junkie? You're just full of surprises."     "Okay, 5k, for a couple of glitterstim...hm." he looks pensive a moment, before finally nodding. "Sure, I could make that work. 

:'''{{#var:455|Raith (455)}} has posed:''' "The way I see it. If I'm going to be dead in the dirt anyway, might as well have some fun getting there." Raith lets out a soft laugh at that and then tilts her head. "That's probably the least surprising thing about me..." That she meditates, of course. The fact that she's actually got a bit of the Force in her is another tale entirely and not one she spills on a first meeting. "Very well. You bring me a couple doses of glitterstim, I'll give you 5K." Then she's the one actually offering her hand to him. "And if this goes well...you and I might become decent friends, Baelin." 

:'''{{#var:240|Baelin Kalregar (240)}} has posed:'''     "Heh, fair point." Kalregar replies. "Especially since everyone's going to be dead in the dirt eventually anyway, right? Might as well make sure you get to have as many fun times as you can with the one life you've got."     He takes the offered handshake. "Speaking of having fun, I'll get you those glitterstim. Same time, same place--tomorrow." 

:'''{{#var:455|Raith (455)}} has posed:''' Raith looks a bit surprised when he offers that he'll have the glitterstim here. Tomorrow. "I don't know if I should be pleased that you're quick or assume you're out to take advantage of me. But I suppose we'll see. Tomorrow." The pack of cigarillos is placed back into a pocket and then she glances at the holoscreen as the commenters announce the next racer. "Ah. This'll be a good one. She's got some clean moves..." Though this might be a sign that their conversation is over. For now. 
}}

A Businessman And a Thrill Addict

2026-03-30T03:15:59Z

Andromeda: Created page with "{{Log Header |Date of Scene=2026-03-21 |Cast of Characters=240, 455 |pretty=yes }} {{Poses |Poses=:'''{{#var:240|Baelin Kalregar (240)}} has posed:'''     The Lower City is dim and rowdy as usual on Coruscanti nights, the streets busy with merchants, thieves, urchins, and other ne'er-do-wells. As is common, Kalregar and some of his crew are drinking and gambling at one of the casinos down here that often attracts the scum and the villainy. &..."

{{Log Header
|Date of Scene=2026-03-21
|Cast of Characters=240, 455
|pretty=yes
}}
{{Poses
|Poses=:'''{{#var:240|Baelin Kalregar (240)}} has posed:'''     The Lower City is dim and rowdy as usual on Coruscanti nights, the streets busy with merchants, thieves, urchins, and other ne'er-do-wells. As is common, Kalregar and some of his crew are drinking and gambling at one of the casinos down here that often attracts the scum and the villainy.     It's a good place to get a few deals, cheat a few of the inexperienced types. Currently, he's sitting at the bar, watching a swoop race on a holopanel near the back wall. A group of rowdy Trandoshans are arguing over bets nearby. 

:'''{{#var:455|Raith (455)}} has posed:''' Raith would usually be down at the swoop races, but she's not in these rounds. So she's found herself down in the casino having passed the merchants and urchins and thieves to get there. Into the casino itself eying the tables where people gamble what little credits they have away hoping to strike it big on just one more round. She'll slide into a seat at the bar with one between herself and Baelin. Eyes drift to the screen as she watches the current race and then scoffs. "Somethin' strong and don't let it go empty..." This said to the barman before eyes go back to the holopanel. "Too far to the left. He's gonna catch his fin on a rock.." Muttered mostly aloud but to herself. 

:'''{{#var:240|Baelin Kalregar (240)}} has posed:'''     The bartender nods. "Comin' right up." the large Devaronian rumbles, going to fetch her a generously sized mug.     Kalregar glances over at her as she comments at the feed on the screen. It seems she has quite the opinion, there.     ...and sure enough, the commentators shout out in excitement when the featured swoop clips the rock and goes spinning out of control, crashing off the side of the track.     "Called it, huh?" Baelin remarks with a chuckle. 

:'''{{#var:455|Raith (455)}} has posed:''' "That's his issue. He's always pulling too far to the left..." Raith comments with a glance over to Baelin and a half shrug offered. "Keep telling him to fix it but men are stubborn idiots on their best days." She looks back to the holoscreen to watch the racer being drug from the remains of his speeder. "Now the next race'll be delayed because they're gonna have to clean his heap of junk off the track." She reaches into a pocket and tosses a pack of cigarillos onto the bartop, taking one out to light. "That kinda mess makes me happy I'm not racing that day." 

:'''{{#var:240|Baelin Kalregar (240)}} has posed:'''     The bartender finishes dispensing Raith's drink, and slides the mug over to her.     Kalregar laughs again. "Ha, well -thanks-, I guess." he remarks dryly at her jab at men, being a man himself. "You race for yourself, for wealthy sponsors, or a bit of both?" he asks. 

:'''{{#var:455|Raith (455)}} has posed:''' "You're welcome." It's said back just as dry while Raith reaches for the mug and takes a long pull. "Well now. That, my friend, depends on the race." She answers almost coyly. "But however I do it. It helps pay the bills and it keeps me happy. Which is a good deal in my book." 

:'''{{#var:240|Baelin Kalregar (240)}} has posed:'''     "Not afraid of losing a limb, eh? Or worse." Kalregar takes a swig of his own drink and turns to her again. "Baelin Kalregar." he introduces himself, and offers a handshake.     "So, you been here a while? Or do you travel?" 

:'''{{#var:455|Raith (455)}} has posed:''' "That means losing." Raith says plainly. "And I don't lose." Another swig of her drink taken while she flicks ashes and takes another drag off that cigarillo. Looking to the hand offered for a heartbeat longer than is courteous before accepting it. "Raith." No last name offered. Perhaps she doesn't have one? "Technically this is home...as odd as that may seem. But I do travel. Gotta keep my name in the circuit somehow..." Another swig of her drink is taken. "And what do you occupy your time with, Baelin?" 

:'''{{#var:240|Baelin Kalregar (240)}} has posed:'''     "Nice to meet ya, Raith." Kalregar replies, nodding. He doesn't seem to mind her staring at the hand before taking it. "Oh yeah? You've never lost? As in, -ever-? How long've you been at this?"     He shrugs at the question. "Oh, all sorts of different things--but I'm a businessman first and foremost. I buy, I sell, I travel." 

:'''{{#var:455|Raith (455)}} has posed:''' "I can't say I've never lost...but at the very least I keep control of my speeder...which is more than I can say for a lot of the others who race." Raith offers this and then shrugs. "Few years now. Long enough to know I love it and not long enough to grow tired of the thrill." Then she grins, flicks ash and smokes more. "Is that so? That kind of talk in this kind of place could make someone wonder just what it is you buy and sell. Traveling must just be a perk of the job." She smirks. "So. What's your best trade right now?" 

:'''{{#var:240|Baelin Kalregar (240)}} has posed:'''     "Think you'll -ever- grow tired of it?" Kalregar asks out of curiosity.     "Oh, you know--mainly the products and services that are hard to come by, and those tend to be the ones that laws don't like." he replies with a smirk. Yeah, he can say that down here. "You make good money on swoop racing?" 

:'''{{#var:455|Raith (455)}} has posed:''' "No. I think I'll grow too old before I grow tired of it." Raith offers, a hint of a smile teasing at her lips. She listens as he skirts around the answer to her question but she actually gives a nod of what seems to be approval. "You sell to big markets or do you keep some supplies for the little guys?" She downs another good bit of her drink. "I make enough." 

:'''{{#var:240|Baelin Kalregar (240)}} has posed:'''     "I go wherever the demand is." Kalregar answers. "Sometimes it's one big market. And other times it's a lot of little guys."     That smile is noticed, but it doesn't surprise him. Not down here. "So you ever in the market for any of those things the laws don't like, you let me know. Or if you're up a little bit of adventure. Get off this planet, go somewhere exotic." 

:'''{{#var:455|Raith (455)}} has posed:''' That last bit puts a slightly bigger smirk on Raith's lips and she actually turns more towards Baelin to give him a bit more of her attention. "I may be in the market for something or things that the laws don't like. Laws are for losers anyway." She offers and then finishes the rest of her drink, pushing the mug back in a silent ask for a refill. "I've been to a few places most people might call exotic...but if you think you can top any of them...I'd maybe be interested in what you've got to offer." 

:'''{{#var:240|Baelin Kalregar (240)}} has posed:'''     "Oh yeah? What kinds of things?" Kalregar probes. "Spice? Slaves? Or are you looking for more services than products? Like someone you need to put on ice."     "That depends on the places you think 'most people call exotic'." he replies to that last part. 

:'''{{#var:455|Raith (455)}} has posed:''' "Which also depends on what places /you/ think are exotic." Raith dances around that subject first with a smirk that turns into a grin. Then she goes back to the other bit. "I might keep you in mind should I ever need someone put on ice..." She offers. "But spice? Now you really have my attention..." 

:'''{{#var:240|Baelin Kalregar (240)}} has posed:'''     "Ha! I dunno. Canto Bight?" Kalregar offers. He might be a touch drunk. "Yeah, you know--spice technically isn't -always- illegal." he remarks offhandedly. "There are medical uses." 

:'''{{#var:455|Raith (455)}} has posed:''' "So exotic - to you - means another place to get drunk and gamble?" Raith asks with humor alighting her eyes for a moment. Then she shrugs. "Yeah. I'm well aware of when it's not illegal...but what I use it for...I can't quite talk my way out of it being...." She pauses, then shrugs again. "Medically necessary." She grabs another cigarillo from the pack and offers the pack to him. "And before you ask, no, I don't use it while racing." 

:'''{{#var:240|Baelin Kalregar (240)}} has posed:'''     "I guess so." Kalregar answers, laughing. "Just the first thing that came I mind I suppose."     "So what do you use it for then, if not racing? And how much do you need?" he asks. "...well, more importantly, how much are you willing to pay for the good stuff?" 

:'''{{#var:455|Raith (455)}} has posed:''' "I mean, to be fair, I was thinking of some place more like Manaan....but then...I'm usually only ever there for the swoop racing. Something about flying over the water's surface is calming." She pauses, takes a drag off her cigarillo. "Even if it's only for ten seconds." There's a longer pause when he asks what she uses it for and then she smirks. "Meditation." Before she gives him a sort of up and down look and then turns more towards the bar. "In a perfect world you could get me a couple doses of glitterstim and I could make it worth your while. So let's say I've got...five thousand...burning a spice-hole in my pocket. Could you work with that?" 

:'''{{#var:240|Baelin Kalregar (240)}} has posed:'''     "Flying over the water in a swoop, huh?" Kalregar chuckles, envisioning that. "You really are a thrill addict." he laughs.     "Meditation? Like the Jedi?" That was about the last thing he was expecting her to say. "From a swoop racing adrenaline junkie? You're just full of surprises."     "Okay, 5k, for a couple of glitterstim...hm." he looks pensive a moment, before finally nodding. "Sure, I could make that work. 

:'''{{#var:455|Raith (455)}} has posed:''' "The way I see it. If I'm going to be dead in the dirt anyway, might as well have some fun getting there." Raith lets out a soft laugh at that and then tilts her head. "That's probably the least surprising thing about me..." That she meditates, of course. The fact that she's actually got a bit of the Force in her is another tale entirely and not one she spills on a first meeting. "Very well. You bring me a couple doses of glitterstim, I'll give you 5K." Then she's the one actually offering her hand to him. "And if this goes well...you and I might become decent friends, Baelin." 

:'''{{#var:240|Baelin Kalregar (240)}} has posed:'''     "Heh, fair point." Kalregar replies. "Especially since everyone's going to be dead in the dirt eventually anyway, right? Might as well make sure you get to have as many fun times as you can with the one life you've got."     He takes the offered handshake. "Speaking of having fun, I'll get you those glitterstim. Same time, same place--tomorrow." 

:'''{{#var:455|Raith (455)}} has posed:''' Raith looks a bit surprised when he offers that he'll have the glitterstim here. Tomorrow. "I don't know if I should be pleased that you're quick or assume you're out to take advantage of me. But I suppose we'll see. Tomorrow." The pack of cigarillos is placed back into a pocket and then she glances at the holoscreen as the commenters announce the next racer. "Ah. This'll be a good one. She's got some clean moves..." Though this might be a sign that their conversation is over. For now. 
}}

The Good Side of Bad

2026-03-30T03:15:42Z

Andromeda:

{{Log Header
|Date of Scene=2026-03-28
|Cast of Characters=455, 240
|pretty=yes
|Location=Lower City - Coruscant
}}
{{Poses
|Poses=:'''{{#var:455|Raith (455)}} has posed:''' Even swoop racers get a whole day off where the tracks are being reset, or they're being given time to refresh their bikes. Raith could be doing that, but instead she's sitting at the bar in the lower level cantina giving love to a mug of brew and a cigarillo. The holoviewer's got some sappy movie playing that not many are paying much attention to. It's good background noise for the most part and blends in with the scattering of gamblers and other conversations the low lifes of Coruscant hold in low volumes. 

:'''{{#var:240|Baelin Kalregar (240)}} has posed:'''     Kalregar had promised two good doses of glitterstim to a swoop racer named Raith, and he plans to make good on that tonight. As promised, he would deliver it to her here, and today.     So he makes his way to the meetup with a small case containing the two vials, spotting the Mirialan and approaching the bar once again. "Two orders of glitterstim, coming right up. The good stuff, I promise." he says, sitting himself down on the stool next to hers and setting the case on the bar in front of them. 

:'''{{#var:455|Raith (455)}} has posed:''' There's a side eye given to the case as he sets it between them and then that gaze shifts to Baelin himself as he sits down next to her. "Well. You passed step one... which was staying good to your word of meeting me here again." She offers and then sets a credit chit on the table to slide in his direction. "I assume you won't be offended if I check the goods myself..." This gains him a grin as she releases the chit and then takes hold of the case to pull closer towards her. 

:'''{{#var:240|Baelin Kalregar (240)}} has posed:'''     Kalregar takes the chit, chuckling. "Step one? Of what? This some kind of test? And what's it for?"     He nods, opening the case to reveal the vials of glitterstim. "Of course." It is what had been agreed upon. Not the cheap diluted stuff, the concentrated stuff. This could probably last a while if stored properly. That is, unless she'd overdose by a vast amount. Which was not all -that- uncommon in some places around the Lower City. 

:'''{{#var:455|Raith (455)}} has posed:''' "Isn't everything a type of test?" Raith asks this with her own chuckle while he opens the case to reveal the vials. "Hot damn. This will last me a bit...and it looks like money well spent." She offers this much before glancing back to him. "Also, it's a test of if you were worthy enough to maybe consider doing business with you. On a more regular basis I mean... It's not easy to find someone willing to supply what I'm looking for. A lot of people don't want to touch the glitterstims." She flicks ashes off her cigarillo before taking another drag. "Not really sure why." 

:'''{{#var:240|Baelin Kalregar (240)}} has posed:'''     "I see." Kalregar replies, nodding. "And is there anything else you would be looking for, besides glitterstim? Or is it just glitterstim?" he asks. 

:'''{{#var:455|Raith (455)}} has posed:''' Raith seems to actually think on his question for a moment, reaching for her mug to take a generous drink. "Swoop bike parts maybe. There's a few things that are only sold on the black market. But my main want is spice. This'll last me a decent time to help keep any edge off..." She gives a little smirk then. "I mean unless you know of anything I might be interested in?" 

:'''{{#var:240|Baelin Kalregar (240)}} has posed:'''     "Black market bike parts, sure. I know a few guys." Kalregar nods, considering her words.     He arches a brow at her as she smirks a little. "I dunno Raith, I only just met you a day ago. So it's hard to say. But, let me ask you this: where do you see yourself in a few years? Still at the swoop racing game? Climb to the top of it? Higher? And why do you race? Just because it feels good, or is there something else? Something bigger? Deeper?" 

:'''{{#var:455|Raith (455)}} has posed:''' That kind of catches Raith off guard. All the sudden questions. "A few years? Sweetheart, I don't know where I'm going to be in a few months. I don't even know where I might be next week. In a pile of rubble because my bike went up in flames on me? Making it to the top of the ranks on Tattooine?" She shakes her head and downs the rest of her drink before signaling the barman for another. "Life like mine you don't live by the year. You live by the moment. I mean...I could have had a different life but I was lucky enough to be able to tell them no." 

:'''{{#var:240|Baelin Kalregar (240)}} has posed:'''     "So just keep doing what you're doing, I take it." Kalregar accepts with a nod. "Well, 's long as it makes you happy, what more can you ask for out of life, I guess." he laughs. "I'll take that to mean you'll just let me know if you ever find yourself longing for something a little unconventional. Or something you can't just buy off the streets." 

:'''{{#var:455|Raith (455)}} has posed:''' A moment is taken to mash out her cigarillo before Raith looks to him again. "Define unconventional..." Because he's keeping her intrigued without really saying much. Which is also a bit annoying as well. 

:'''{{#var:240|Baelin Kalregar (240)}} has posed:'''     "Oh, you know...things the laws don't like. Things you can't just walk into a shop and buy." Baelin answers, smirking a little.     "So, where else have you raced? Besides here, and Tattoine?" 

:'''{{#var:455|Raith (455)}} has posed:''' "Manaan, Taris and Telos..." Raith offers. "Usually when the money is good or someone's got a good price riding on the race and I can make my own cut." Without thinking about it, she holds her hand out to pull the refilled mug towards her without reaching and then picks it up to take a swig. "And I suppose that all depends on whose laws your bending... but I wouldn't say no to a good time somewhere that isn't a swoop racing world." 

:'''{{#var:240|Baelin Kalregar (240)}} has posed:'''     Oh, that's definitely noticed. "Yeah?" Kalregar begins. "And I'm willing to bet -that- gives you at least a bit of an edge over the competition, huh?" he asks, referring to that little Force pull. With that said though, he calls the bartender over and orders a drink for himself. 

:'''{{#var:455|Raith (455)}} has posed:''' Raith would deny it. Would make every excuse in the book. But why? "It really just helps take the edge off...and it's also why I don't use the stims for swoop racing. Can't help what comes naturally..." She takes another sip from her mug and then goes through the motions to light up another cigarillo. "Now you know my little secret. Guess I gotta kill you now..." But she is giving a grin when saying that bit. 

:'''{{#var:240|Baelin Kalregar (240)}} has posed:'''     "Don't worry," Kalregar says with a grin as the bartender brings his drink over and he takes a swig as well. "Your secret's safe with me." he promises. "Not that it'd disqualify you from anything. Swoop racing's still swoop racing."     "So," A brief and another sip. "The Order never approached your parents or anything? Or you never asked 'em?" 

:'''{{#var:455|Raith (455)}} has posed:''' "That's the job that I said no to. It's always an option for my people and many of us join The Order. It just wasn't in my cards...I was too attached to racing. I loved it the moment I first saw it. So it's not like I'm against The Order, and I believe in the Force..." Raith offers this with a shrug and takes another drink. "What about you... you always been drawn to the smuggler life?" 

:'''{{#var:240|Baelin Kalregar (240)}} has posed:'''     Kalregar nods. "Heh, you've been in love with the swoops for a long time, then." he remarks, knowing the Order likes them rather young. "You probably made the right choice...it's not an easy life. Got a kid with the Order myself." he tells her.     He scoffs slightly at that last question. "I dunno about 'drawn', it just kind of happened. My parents abandoned me when I was nine. Had to fend for myself somehow." 

:'''{{#var:455|Raith (455)}} has posed:''' "No, it's not. And of all the things I know about The Order - and especially of the Jedi - there are a few things I enjoy as an adult that I would have had to give up to follow that path. May the Force be with those who can...just wasn't for me." Raith offers. There's a little skirting done then as she says, "Well you seemed to have fended for yourself well enough, but I'm sorry to hear about your parents." Only to then add. "So you have a kid?" 

:'''{{#var:240|Baelin Kalregar (240)}} has posed:'''     "Yeah from what I can tell there are a -lot- of things you have to give up to follow that path." Kalregar mutters.     "Eh, they were bastards anyway." he remarks about his parents. "Probably did a better job taking care of myself than ever would've. And yeah, I have a few of those. Kids, I mean. Just the one with the Order, though. The rest are..." he shrugs. "Somewhere." 

:'''{{#var:455|Raith (455)}} has posed:''' "Ah.. well.. sounds like you deliver a bit more than product around the galaxy then..." Raith remarks with a grin and then drains the rest of her mug and asks the barman for her tab. "Put his drink on my tab too." Is then said before she side eyes him. "Do I get to keep the case or should I just pocket the goods? I'd love to stay and chat more but I have a bed that's calling my name." 

:'''{{#var:240|Baelin Kalregar (240)}} has posed:'''     "That's right." Kalregar replies, smirking. "I mentioned 'services', didn't I?"     He nods. "Yeah sure, keep the case." he answers, smiling amicably and standing up. "Pleasure doing business, Raith." 

:'''{{#var:455|Raith (455)}} has posed:''' That gives Raith a moment of pause. "You did." Then she smirks. "And now I'm curious how much -those- services would cost someone..." Then she chuckles and slips off her stool. "Keep being interesting, Baelin. I like that about you." Her tab - and his first drink at least - paid for before she turns to leave the cantina. 
}}

The Good Side of Bad

2026-03-30T03:15:29Z

Andromeda: Created page with "{{Log Header |Date of Scene=2026-03-28 |Cast of Characters=455, 240 |pretty=yes }} {{Poses |Poses=:'''{{#var:455|Raith (455)}} has posed:''' Even swoop racers get a whole day off where the tracks are being reset, or they're being given time to refresh their bikes. Raith could be doing that, but instead she's sitting at the bar in the lower level cantina giving love to a mug of brew and a cigarillo. The holoviewer's got some sappy movie playing that not many are paying..."

{{Log Header
|Date of Scene=2026-03-28
|Cast of Characters=455, 240
|pretty=yes
}}
{{Poses
|Poses=:'''{{#var:455|Raith (455)}} has posed:''' Even swoop racers get a whole day off where the tracks are being reset, or they're being given time to refresh their bikes. Raith could be doing that, but instead she's sitting at the bar in the lower level cantina giving love to a mug of brew and a cigarillo. The holoviewer's got some sappy movie playing that not many are paying much attention to. It's good background noise for the most part and blends in with the scattering of gamblers and other conversations the low lifes of Coruscant hold in low volumes. 

:'''{{#var:240|Baelin Kalregar (240)}} has posed:'''     Kalregar had promised two good doses of glitterstim to a swoop racer named Raith, and he plans to make good on that tonight. As promised, he would deliver it to her here, and today.     So he makes his way to the meetup with a small case containing the two vials, spotting the Mirialan and approaching the bar once again. "Two orders of glitterstim, coming right up. The good stuff, I promise." he says, sitting himself down on the stool next to hers and setting the case on the bar in front of them. 

:'''{{#var:455|Raith (455)}} has posed:''' There's a side eye given to the case as he sets it between them and then that gaze shifts to Baelin himself as he sits down next to her. "Well. You passed step one... which was staying good to your word of meeting me here again." She offers and then sets a credit chit on the table to slide in his direction. "I assume you won't be offended if I check the goods myself..." This gains him a grin as she releases the chit and then takes hold of the case to pull closer towards her. 

:'''{{#var:240|Baelin Kalregar (240)}} has posed:'''     Kalregar takes the chit, chuckling. "Step one? Of what? This some kind of test? And what's it for?"     He nods, opening the case to reveal the vials of glitterstim. "Of course." It is what had been agreed upon. Not the cheap diluted stuff, the concentrated stuff. This could probably last a while if stored properly. That is, unless she'd overdose by a vast amount. Which was not all -that- uncommon in some places around the Lower City. 

:'''{{#var:455|Raith (455)}} has posed:''' "Isn't everything a type of test?" Raith asks this with her own chuckle while he opens the case to reveal the vials. "Hot damn. This will last me a bit...and it looks like money well spent." She offers this much before glancing back to him. "Also, it's a test of if you were worthy enough to maybe consider doing business with you. On a more regular basis I mean... It's not easy to find someone willing to supply what I'm looking for. A lot of people don't want to touch the glitterstims." She flicks ashes off her cigarillo before taking another drag. "Not really sure why." 

:'''{{#var:240|Baelin Kalregar (240)}} has posed:'''     "I see." Kalregar replies, nodding. "And is there anything else you would be looking for, besides glitterstim? Or is it just glitterstim?" he asks. 

:'''{{#var:455|Raith (455)}} has posed:''' Raith seems to actually think on his question for a moment, reaching for her mug to take a generous drink. "Swoop bike parts maybe. There's a few things that are only sold on the black market. But my main want is spice. This'll last me a decent time to help keep any edge off..." She gives a little smirk then. "I mean unless you know of anything I might be interested in?" 

:'''{{#var:240|Baelin Kalregar (240)}} has posed:'''     "Black market bike parts, sure. I know a few guys." Kalregar nods, considering her words.     He arches a brow at her as she smirks a little. "I dunno Raith, I only just met you a day ago. So it's hard to say. But, let me ask you this: where do you see yourself in a few years? Still at the swoop racing game? Climb to the top of it? Higher? And why do you race? Just because it feels good, or is there something else? Something bigger? Deeper?" 

:'''{{#var:455|Raith (455)}} has posed:''' That kind of catches Raith off guard. All the sudden questions. "A few years? Sweetheart, I don't know where I'm going to be in a few months. I don't even know where I might be next week. In a pile of rubble because my bike went up in flames on me? Making it to the top of the ranks on Tattooine?" She shakes her head and downs the rest of her drink before signaling the barman for another. "Life like mine you don't live by the year. You live by the moment. I mean...I could have had a different life but I was lucky enough to be able to tell them no." 

:'''{{#var:240|Baelin Kalregar (240)}} has posed:'''     "So just keep doing what you're doing, I take it." Kalregar accepts with a nod. "Well, 's long as it makes you happy, what more can you ask for out of life, I guess." he laughs. "I'll take that to mean you'll just let me know if you ever find yourself longing for something a little unconventional. Or something you can't just buy off the streets." 

:'''{{#var:455|Raith (455)}} has posed:''' A moment is taken to mash out her cigarillo before Raith looks to him again. "Define unconventional..." Because he's keeping her intrigued without really saying much. Which is also a bit annoying as well. 

:'''{{#var:240|Baelin Kalregar (240)}} has posed:'''     "Oh, you know...things the laws don't like. Things you can't just walk into a shop and buy." Baelin answers, smirking a little.     "So, where else have you raced? Besides here, and Tattoine?" 

:'''{{#var:455|Raith (455)}} has posed:''' "Manaan, Taris and Telos..." Raith offers. "Usually when the money is good or someone's got a good price riding on the race and I can make my own cut." Without thinking about it, she holds her hand out to pull the refilled mug towards her without reaching and then picks it up to take a swig. "And I suppose that all depends on whose laws your bending... but I wouldn't say no to a good time somewhere that isn't a swoop racing world." 

:'''{{#var:240|Baelin Kalregar (240)}} has posed:'''     Oh, that's definitely noticed. "Yeah?" Kalregar begins. "And I'm willing to bet -that- gives you at least a bit of an edge over the competition, huh?" he asks, referring to that little Force pull. With that said though, he calls the bartender over and orders a drink for himself. 

:'''{{#var:455|Raith (455)}} has posed:''' Raith would deny it. Would make every excuse in the book. But why? "It really just helps take the edge off...and it's also why I don't use the stims for swoop racing. Can't help what comes naturally..." She takes another sip from her mug and then goes through the motions to light up another cigarillo. "Now you know my little secret. Guess I gotta kill you now..." But she is giving a grin when saying that bit. 

:'''{{#var:240|Baelin Kalregar (240)}} has posed:'''     "Don't worry," Kalregar says with a grin as the bartender brings his drink over and he takes a swig as well. "Your secret's safe with me." he promises. "Not that it'd disqualify you from anything. Swoop racing's still swoop racing."     "So," A brief and another sip. "The Order never approached your parents or anything? Or you never asked 'em?" 

:'''{{#var:455|Raith (455)}} has posed:''' "That's the job that I said no to. It's always an option for my people and many of us join The Order. It just wasn't in my cards...I was too attached to racing. I loved it the moment I first saw it. So it's not like I'm against The Order, and I believe in the Force..." Raith offers this with a shrug and takes another drink. "What about you... you always been drawn to the smuggler life?" 

:'''{{#var:240|Baelin Kalregar (240)}} has posed:'''     Kalregar nods. "Heh, you've been in love with the swoops for a long time, then." he remarks, knowing the Order likes them rather young. "You probably made the right choice...it's not an easy life. Got a kid with the Order myself." he tells her.     He scoffs slightly at that last question. "I dunno about 'drawn', it just kind of happened. My parents abandoned me when I was nine. Had to fend for myself somehow." 

:'''{{#var:455|Raith (455)}} has posed:''' "No, it's not. And of all the things I know about The Order - and especially of the Jedi - there are a few things I enjoy as an adult that I would have had to give up to follow that path. May the Force be with those who can...just wasn't for me." Raith offers. There's a little skirting done then as she says, "Well you seemed to have fended for yourself well enough, but I'm sorry to hear about your parents." Only to then add. "So you have a kid?" 

:'''{{#var:240|Baelin Kalregar (240)}} has posed:'''     "Yeah from what I can tell there are a -lot- of things you have to give up to follow that path." Kalregar mutters.     "Eh, they were bastards anyway." he remarks about his parents. "Probably did a better job taking care of myself than ever would've. And yeah, I have a few of those. Kids, I mean. Just the one with the Order, though. The rest are..." he shrugs. "Somewhere." 

:'''{{#var:455|Raith (455)}} has posed:''' "Ah.. well.. sounds like you deliver a bit more than product around the galaxy then..." Raith remarks with a grin and then drains the rest of her mug and asks the barman for her tab. "Put his drink on my tab too." Is then said before she side eyes him. "Do I get to keep the case or should I just pocket the goods? I'd love to stay and chat more but I have a bed that's calling my name." 

:'''{{#var:240|Baelin Kalregar (240)}} has posed:'''     "That's right." Kalregar replies, smirking. "I mentioned 'services', didn't I?"     He nods. "Yeah sure, keep the case." he answers, smiling amicably and standing up. "Pleasure doing business, Raith." 

:'''{{#var:455|Raith (455)}} has posed:''' That gives Raith a moment of pause. "You did." Then she smirks. "And now I'm curious how much -those- services would cost someone..." Then she chuckles and slips off her stool. "Keep being interesting, Baelin. I like that about you." Her tab - and his first drink at least - paid for before she turns to leave the cantina. 
}}

The Coveted Inner Peace

2026-03-21T01:49:06Z

Andromeda:

{{Log Header
|Date of Scene=2026-03-17
|Cast of Characters=159, 143
|pretty=yes
|Location=Kublop Springs - Tenoo - Outer Rim
}}
{{Poses
|Poses=:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' The baron looks pensive for a moment. "True," he finally says, "But the era in which he reigned was one of peace. The Republic and the Mandalorians were much less enemies back then. It was only the aftermath that ruined the peace Tarre built. And he wouldnt have wanted that war, had he been alive, I'm sure." 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde considers Caine's comments. Well, even if that was true, it didn't change the fact that he'd created strife whether he'd wanted it or not. So does this man think that bringing Tarre back would fix everything?     However, he doesn't really say anything more at this point--instead, he simply shrugs and glances over at his master, wondering when the elder Jedi will finish meditating. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "You don't believe in it," the Baron comments, "that's fine. It's worth a try. Mandalorians have tried just about everything else to achieve unity and every attempt has failed." Then he smiles. "Alright, tell me, if you think it's inadvisable what would you suggest?" The question doesn't seem derisive. The Baron seems genuinely curious about what Cayde had to say. As for Rykard, he just keeps meditating. The old master isn't finished, it would seem. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     [Unity within but not without] Cayde replies, meaning perhaps he could unify Mandalore...but then create more strife with the Jedi.     He considers the question, but is rather unsure what to say. Honestly, he doesn't know enough about Mandalorians. [I do not know] he signs. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "Look," the Baron says, "if you're caught up on the fact that I'm Mandalorian, don't be. I want a fresh perspective. Current attempts to solve our civil unrest fail because those trying know too much." "Pretend I'm not Mandalorian. Pretend... Pretend I'm a brother that you love very dearly who has unfortunately, hurt you very much. How would you go about reconciliation?" 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde immediately thinks of Kuv, although he hasn't seen his brother in a while.     But usually...     [I search his mind] he signs. To understand his intentions and emotions. And vice versa. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' The barons eyes light up. He seems intrigued. "You have a brother," he observes. "how is this? I thought Jedi are forbidden to have relationships with family and significant others." "well this is more enlightening than I thought. Tell me more about this brother of yours. And what do you do when you search his mind?" 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde arches a brow at him. He hadn't said he had a brother. [I did not say it] he signs, denying any admission of this. [Right it is forbidden...only just if you were] 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' The baron smiles. "Perhaps I misunderstood? You said 'I search his mind,' in the present tense, with no indication of the action being hypothetical," he says. "... do you want one?" he inquires. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde nods. [Yes] he signs. As in, yes he misunderstood. [I mean if him] he attempts to clarify.     At that last question, his gaze wanders off a bit. Partly toward his master, and partly off in the distance before returning to Caine. [I do not know] he answers. [You have a brother] 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Now it's Caine's turn to avert his gaze. "Yes," he says very softly, "you know him." A pause. "He was sent to rehab," he says, his brows furrowed. "Mandalorians don't believe in that," he scoffs. Then his expression becomes pained, and bitter. "Don't overthink it," he says, "no need to wish for one. They'll always leave you, and for the worst reasons. Or perhaps for no reason at all." This might remind Cayde of when Kuv left, to continue his training offworld. He'd never come back, and they'd only seen each other once briefly, since then. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Yes, Kuv had left, but Cayde is pretty certain it wasn't his choice. And maybe the Council's decision had been a wise one...though it hadn't been easy.     [Then maybe I will not] he signs, shrugging again. He looks over at Rykard again. What was taking so long, anyway? 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Rykard's eyes are still closed. He seems unaware of their conversation. Or is he? But then it will become apparent to Cayde that talking about his brother had triggered some kind of repressed sadness deep within him. And now he's fighting to suppress his grief, lest it overwhelm him. Something about the leaving. It had hurt him very much, even though it had been a long time ago. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde stares at the floor, pushing his emotions down as best he can, just the way he has always been trained to do. For fear he'll lose control. For fear someone else will get hurt. Like that family on the farmstead.     He pushes his mind to other topics, looking back at the baron finally and trying to determine if he's less frightened now or not. [Are you still afraid] he asks. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "Yes," the baron says almost immediately. "I've been afraid my whole life," he says in a vulnerable fashion. "Of this. Of feeling too much, forgiving too little, being too angry. Doing something I'll regret in the heat of the moment. Because that already happened and I don't know, I still don't know how to not let that happen again." He runs his hands through his curly locks, anguished. "What do you do? How do Jedi find that damned, coveted inner peace?" 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde shrugs again. [I do not know... I do not have it] he tells the man. Well it was true. Although it may not appear that way. He's just good at hiding it. Pushing it so far down that it barely shows. [I still need learn] 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' For some reason, this seems to comfort the baron greatly. That terrible sinking grief threatening to crush him suddenly lifts. The sensation is palpable in the Force. He laughs softly. "What an un-Jedi like thing to say," he jokes gently, through glassy eyes. "But I think I like that about you, very much." 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde pouts slightly, somewhat taking offense at this. [I will become better] he continues, a look of determination cross his features. One day, if and when he ever gets promoted.     Again, he looks over at his master. Maybe Rykard was doing this on purpose... 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "Of course you will," Caine encourages, "And I believe in you." "I want you to know that the things I said to you just now were very difficult for me to admit. And that it was probably the hardest thing I've done all year, despite the numerous rabbles I've been dragged into. So I wanted to thank you, for helping me to do it. But perhaps you already know that." "Tell me about yourself," he says suddenly, "why, you must get ignored plenty since you can't speak. How do you spend your time? What do you do for leisure?" 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' No response from Rykard. Maybe his Master -is- doing this on purpose... 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde stares at Master for a moment. Truly, he must be. He wasn't -actually- meditating for this long. This must be a test. Suddenly, he feels rather nervous, and shifts uncomfortably.     [You were...grieved] he tells the Mandalorian. Yes, he had felt that--it had been rather palpable. He arches a brow at the gratitude though. How had he helped? He hadn't even entered the man's mind yet. At least not to a more intentional extent.     Leisure? The padawan hasn't really thought about that in a while. He has spent much of his life just trying to get his gifting under control. Well...he pulls out a datapad and shows the baron a drawing he'd made of town square in Kublop, days before the storm had hit. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Maybe Cayde will never know the answer of how, or why what he'd done had worked. But the young padawan will be able to sense there there's an ease about the man's aura now. Comfort, and a kind of peace, too, that hadn't been there before. The tension had dissolved completely. Instead, he seems to be genuinely enjoying being around Cayde. Which is sort of a foreign feeling. Most people, whenever he approached them either felt mildly fearful, neutral, or that he was owed respect and authority at all times. Or they felt stressed. Actually most of the time people seemed to generally feel stress to varying degrees whenever they saw him or were around him. The baron seems delighted by the image. "That's lovely," he tells Cayde. "I do enjoy the arts greatly. However, I'm quite lacking in that area of expertise. Here, I suppose I'll demonstrate the extent of my ability to be artistic," he says, and then holds his hands up in a certain way in front of light being generated by a small lamp in the dim room they're in. This creates a shadow on the wall, one that looks distinctly like the largest building in the drawing he'd just shown him. Then with a flourish of his hands, he transforms the building into a flower with falling petals, and then a bird. The theatrics of the shadow puppetry, despite their simplicity, are oddly compelling and convincing, to some degree. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde watches the 'shadow art' with a level of interest. Well he hadn't thought of that before, but it was neat. He could very easily see the familiar shapes in the shadows.     [Very good] he signs, nodding. [Not afraid any more...good] 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' The baron smiles at Cayde, but doesn't comment about not being afraid anymore. He then uses both hands to create a shadow puppet of a little man with a hat and a cane, walking about in a comically cantankerous fashion. "Let's see you try," he says, "I bet you could outshine my theatrics." 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde glances about and begins to pull several pieces of broken scrap metal off of the ground, bringing them together into various shapes in front of the light of the setting sun. A boat, a house, a bird like the one Caine had just done. Then some more complex ones, such as a Vector like the ones back at the Temple. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Holding up his hands again in a particular fashion, Caine recreates the cantankerous little man and makes him part of Cayde's shadow-scape, but this time, making him walk around and take off his hat as if in admiration of the sights around him. The resulting shadow puppetry is a dramatic theatrical display of contrasting shapes against a pale wall, that is both ridiculous and amusing. The baron is pleased. "I haven't done that in so long," he says softly. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde watches the comical display with amusement, and there is the barest hint of a smile for just a moment. Although it fades quickly, and he studies Caine's expression. [You play it as a child] he asks. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' The baron returns the smile, a hopeful light flickering in his sapphire eyes. "Yes," he says, laughing quietly. "do you know how I learned it? Our tutors made us learn both Basic and Mando'a sign, and I thought the homework to be a horrible chore. I had to amuse myself somehow, doing the exercises." "And then it just became a form of play, I guess," he says, "Kass and I would make silent shadow theater with just our hands for hours," he says smiling at the the fond memory, "and then my mother would scold us, for taking such a long time to do our homework." "See," he says, repeating the hand gesture that made the little man with the cane, taking off his hat. "This means 'You are family', in Mando'a sign." 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Huh... Mando'a sign. It fit, he supposes. But one single for an entire sentence. It must have just been a very important and common saying.     Cayde studies the sign for a moment, and then does his best to mimic it. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' The Baron suddenly seems very overcome with emotion. Cayde had guessed right, it would seem. He smiles, tears flowing freely now. "Ah," he says, "I'm sorry. It's just that no one's said that to me for decades... Not like that, anyway." 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde studies the man carefully, both his outward appearance and his raging inner emotions. Clearly the saying had a deep meaning for him.     [Sorry...I learn the sign...I only meet you in moments] he tells the baron. [But you have pain...and you are open] Not many were so willing to open up to him so willingly. [Better and safer to search the truth] 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "Don't apologize," he says, "I think you don't realize I've been a closed door all my life. It took meeting a mind reader to force me to admit anything. It took removing every mechanism I've used to hide for years, to get here." "This has been healing for me. Thank you." 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde stares at him. He barely knows this man. But perhaps he will know him quite well, very soon.     [...you are welcome] he signs. [Happy I have help] 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' The baron suddenly gets up and embraces Cayde tightly, wordlessly. And behind him, he'll sense Rykard's mind stir a bit. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde finds himself surprised by the sudden embrace. "..."     But he reaches over and pats the baron on the back in return.     ...Oh, well now was Master done meditating? 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' The baron releases him, and sits down across from Cayde, seeming calm and peace. Rykard finally physically stirs and opens his eyes. "Ah," he says to Cayde, "you've finished meditating," he says to young padawan. "Are you two ready now?" But there's a familiar twinkle in his eyes, one that seems to say that he'd not been as unaware as he'd seemed to be. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde arches a brow at his master. [Perfect time...] he signs. Well the Force works in mysterious ways, doesn't it? But Rykard seems pleased, so perhaps he passed the test... 
}}

The Coveted Inner Peace

2026-03-21T01:48:52Z

Andromeda: Created page with "{{Log Header |Date of Scene=2026-03-17 |Cast of Characters=159, 143 |pretty=yes }} {{Poses |Poses=:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' The baron looks pensive for a moment. "True," he finally says, "But the era in which he reigned was one of peace. The Republic and the Mandalorians were much less enemies back then. It was only the aftermath that ruined the peace Tarre built. And he wouldnt have wanted that war, had he been alive, I'm sure." :'''{{#v..."

{{Log Header
|Date of Scene=2026-03-17
|Cast of Characters=159, 143
|pretty=yes
}}
{{Poses
|Poses=:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' The baron looks pensive for a moment. "True," he finally says, "But the era in which he reigned was one of peace. The Republic and the Mandalorians were much less enemies back then. It was only the aftermath that ruined the peace Tarre built. And he wouldnt have wanted that war, had he been alive, I'm sure." 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde considers Caine's comments. Well, even if that was true, it didn't change the fact that he'd created strife whether he'd wanted it or not. So does this man think that bringing Tarre back would fix everything?     However, he doesn't really say anything more at this point--instead, he simply shrugs and glances over at his master, wondering when the elder Jedi will finish meditating. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "You don't believe in it," the Baron comments, "that's fine. It's worth a try. Mandalorians have tried just about everything else to achieve unity and every attempt has failed." Then he smiles. "Alright, tell me, if you think it's inadvisable what would you suggest?" The question doesn't seem derisive. The Baron seems genuinely curious about what Cayde had to say. As for Rykard, he just keeps meditating. The old master isn't finished, it would seem. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     [Unity within but not without] Cayde replies, meaning perhaps he could unify Mandalore...but then create more strife with the Jedi.     He considers the question, but is rather unsure what to say. Honestly, he doesn't know enough about Mandalorians. [I do not know] he signs. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "Look," the Baron says, "if you're caught up on the fact that I'm Mandalorian, don't be. I want a fresh perspective. Current attempts to solve our civil unrest fail because those trying know too much." "Pretend I'm not Mandalorian. Pretend... Pretend I'm a brother that you love very dearly who has unfortunately, hurt you very much. How would you go about reconciliation?" 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde immediately thinks of Kuv, although he hasn't seen his brother in a while.     But usually...     [I search his mind] he signs. To understand his intentions and emotions. And vice versa. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' The barons eyes light up. He seems intrigued. "You have a brother," he observes. "how is this? I thought Jedi are forbidden to have relationships with family and significant others." "well this is more enlightening than I thought. Tell me more about this brother of yours. And what do you do when you search his mind?" 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde arches a brow at him. He hadn't said he had a brother. [I did not say it] he signs, denying any admission of this. [Right it is forbidden...only just if you were] 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' The baron smiles. "Perhaps I misunderstood? You said 'I search his mind,' in the present tense, with no indication of the action being hypothetical," he says. "... do you want one?" he inquires. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde nods. [Yes] he signs. As in, yes he misunderstood. [I mean if him] he attempts to clarify.     At that last question, his gaze wanders off a bit. Partly toward his master, and partly off in the distance before returning to Caine. [I do not know] he answers. [You have a brother] 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Now it's Caine's turn to avert his gaze. "Yes," he says very softly, "you know him." A pause. "He was sent to rehab," he says, his brows furrowed. "Mandalorians don't believe in that," he scoffs. Then his expression becomes pained, and bitter. "Don't overthink it," he says, "no need to wish for one. They'll always leave you, and for the worst reasons. Or perhaps for no reason at all." This might remind Cayde of when Kuv left, to continue his training offworld. He'd never come back, and they'd only seen each other once briefly, since then. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Yes, Kuv had left, but Cayde is pretty certain it wasn't his choice. And maybe the Council's decision had been a wise one...though it hadn't been easy.     [Then maybe I will not] he signs, shrugging again. He looks over at Rykard again. What was taking so long, anyway? 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Rykard's eyes are still closed. He seems unaware of their conversation. Or is he? But then it will become apparent to Cayde that talking about his brother had triggered some kind of repressed sadness deep within him. And now he's fighting to suppress his grief, lest it overwhelm him. Something about the leaving. It had hurt him very much, even though it had been a long time ago. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde stares at the floor, pushing his emotions down as best he can, just the way he has always been trained to do. For fear he'll lose control. For fear someone else will get hurt. Like that family on the farmstead.     He pushes his mind to other topics, looking back at the baron finally and trying to determine if he's less frightened now or not. [Are you still afraid] he asks. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "Yes," the baron says almost immediately. "I've been afraid my whole life," he says in a vulnerable fashion. "Of this. Of feeling too much, forgiving too little, being too angry. Doing something I'll regret in the heat of the moment. Because that already happened and I don't know, I still don't know how to not let that happen again." He runs his hands through his curly locks, anguished. "What do you do? How do Jedi find that damned, coveted inner peace?" 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde shrugs again. [I do not know... I do not have it] he tells the man. Well it was true. Although it may not appear that way. He's just good at hiding it. Pushing it so far down that it barely shows. [I still need learn] 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' For some reason, this seems to comfort the baron greatly. That terrible sinking grief threatening to crush him suddenly lifts. The sensation is palpable in the Force. He laughs softly. "What an un-Jedi like thing to say," he jokes gently, through glassy eyes. "But I think I like that about you, very much." 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde pouts slightly, somewhat taking offense at this. [I will become better] he continues, a look of determination cross his features. One day, if and when he ever gets promoted.     Again, he looks over at his master. Maybe Rykard was doing this on purpose... 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "Of course you will," Caine encourages, "And I believe in you." "I want you to know that the things I said to you just now were very difficult for me to admit. And that it was probably the hardest thing I've done all year, despite the numerous rabbles I've been dragged into. So I wanted to thank you, for helping me to do it. But perhaps you already know that." "Tell me about yourself," he says suddenly, "why, you must get ignored plenty since you can't speak. How do you spend your time? What do you do for leisure?" 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' No response from Rykard. Maybe his Master -is- doing this on purpose... 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde stares at Master for a moment. Truly, he must be. He wasn't -actually- meditating for this long. This must be a test. Suddenly, he feels rather nervous, and shifts uncomfortably.     [You were...grieved] he tells the Mandalorian. Yes, he had felt that--it had been rather palpable. He arches a brow at the gratitude though. How had he helped? He hadn't even entered the man's mind yet. At least not to a more intentional extent.     Leisure? The padawan hasn't really thought about that in a while. He has spent much of his life just trying to get his gifting under control. Well...he pulls out a datapad and shows the baron a drawing he'd made of town square in Kublop, days before the storm had hit. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Maybe Cayde will never know the answer of how, or why what he'd done had worked. But the young padawan will be able to sense there there's an ease about the man's aura now. Comfort, and a kind of peace, too, that hadn't been there before. The tension had dissolved completely. Instead, he seems to be genuinely enjoying being around Cayde. Which is sort of a foreign feeling. Most people, whenever he approached them either felt mildly fearful, neutral, or that he was owed respect and authority at all times. Or they felt stressed. Actually most of the time people seemed to generally feel stress to varying degrees whenever they saw him or were around him. The baron seems delighted by the image. "That's lovely," he tells Cayde. "I do enjoy the arts greatly. However, I'm quite lacking in that area of expertise. Here, I suppose I'll demonstrate the extent of my ability to be artistic," he says, and then holds his hands up in a certain way in front of light being generated by a small lamp in the dim room they're in. This creates a shadow on the wall, one that looks distinctly like the largest building in the drawing he'd just shown him. Then with a flourish of his hands, he transforms the building into a flower with falling petals, and then a bird. The theatrics of the shadow puppetry, despite their simplicity, are oddly compelling and convincing, to some degree. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde watches the 'shadow art' with a level of interest. Well he hadn't thought of that before, but it was neat. He could very easily see the familiar shapes in the shadows.     [Very good] he signs, nodding. [Not afraid any more...good] 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' The baron smiles at Cayde, but doesn't comment about not being afraid anymore. He then uses both hands to create a shadow puppet of a little man with a hat and a cane, walking about in a comically cantankerous fashion. "Let's see you try," he says, "I bet you could outshine my theatrics." 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde glances about and begins to pull several pieces of broken scrap metal off of the ground, bringing them together into various shapes in front of the light of the setting sun. A boat, a house, a bird like the one Caine had just done. Then some more complex ones, such as a Vector like the ones back at the Temple. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Holding up his hands again in a particular fashion, Caine recreates the cantankerous little man and makes him part of Cayde's shadow-scape, but this time, making him walk around and take off his hat as if in admiration of the sights around him. The resulting shadow puppetry is a dramatic theatrical display of contrasting shapes against a pale wall, that is both ridiculous and amusing. The baron is pleased. "I haven't done that in so long," he says softly. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde watches the comical display with amusement, and there is the barest hint of a smile for just a moment. Although it fades quickly, and he studies Caine's expression. [You play it as a child] he asks. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' The baron returns the smile, a hopeful light flickering in his sapphire eyes. "Yes," he says, laughing quietly. "do you know how I learned it? Our tutors made us learn both Basic and Mando'a sign, and I thought the homework to be a horrible chore. I had to amuse myself somehow, doing the exercises." "And then it just became a form of play, I guess," he says, "Kass and I would make silent shadow theater with just our hands for hours," he says smiling at the the fond memory, "and then my mother would scold us, for taking such a long time to do our homework." "See," he says, repeating the hand gesture that made the little man with the cane, taking off his hat. "This means 'You are family', in Mando'a sign." 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Huh... Mando'a sign. It fit, he supposes. But one single for an entire sentence. It must have just been a very important and common saying.     Cayde studies the sign for a moment, and then does his best to mimic it. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' The Baron suddenly seems very overcome with emotion. Cayde had guessed right, it would seem. He smiles, tears flowing freely now. "Ah," he says, "I'm sorry. It's just that no one's said that to me for decades... Not like that, anyway." 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde studies the man carefully, both his outward appearance and his raging inner emotions. Clearly the saying had a deep meaning for him.     [Sorry...I learn the sign...I only meet you in moments] he tells the baron. [But you have pain...and you are open] Not many were so willing to open up to him so willingly. [Better and safer to search the truth] 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "Don't apologize," he says, "I think you don't realize I've been a closed door all my life. It took meeting a mind reader to force me to admit anything. It took removing every mechanism I've used to hide for years, to get here." "This has been healing for me. Thank you." 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde stares at him. He barely knows this man. But perhaps he will know him quite well, very soon.     [...you are welcome] he signs. [Happy I have help] 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' The baron suddenly gets up and embraces Cayde tightly, wordlessly. And behind him, he'll sense Rykard's mind stir a bit. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde finds himself surprised by the sudden embrace. "..."     But he reaches over and pats the baron on the back in return.     ...Oh, well now was Master done meditating? 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' The baron releases him, and sits down across from Cayde, seeming calm and peace. Rykard finally physically stirs and opens his eyes. "Ah," he says to Cayde, "you've finished meditating," he says to young padawan. "Are you two ready now?" But there's a familiar twinkle in his eyes, one that seems to say that he'd not been as unaware as he'd seemed to be. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde arches a brow at his master. [Perfect time...] he signs. Well the Force works in mysterious ways, doesn't it? But Rykard seems pleased, so perhaps he passed the test... 
}}

The Duality of Tarre Vizsla

2026-03-21T01:47:29Z

Andromeda:

{{Log Header
|Date of Scene=2026-03-01
|Cast of Characters=159, 444, 418, 296, 143, 321, 261
|pretty=yes
|Location=Kublop Springs - Tenoo - Outer Rim
}}
{{Poses
|Poses=:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' It's been a pretty grueling past few weeks. With the monsoon finally over, Kublop could finally get to rebuilding. The storm had been the worst one in at least a few decades - leaving the town with only a handful of houses still standing, and even fewer public establishments not utterly demolished by the raging elements. The three that are still standing with minor damage happen to be the local cantina, the hospital, and surprisingly, the junkyard (though one could argue, the junkyard was already full of broken parts anyway?) The property inspector's family had taken his death hard, and the local constabulary is doing its due diligence to try understand what all had happened. So far, it had been deduced that there had been some kind of firefight which had caused the cave in that had affected Volken, Crane, and the now dead inspector. The perpetrators? Still a mystery, although Mondrian (M) has been missing ever since the storm had blown over, and Mondrian (F) has been very sullen and withdrawn, all of a sudden. Kass, after having been recovered, had been seen by the medics and deemed a danger to himself and others, as well as suffering from some mild alcohol poisoning. He'd been admitted to a rehab center and despite his numerous pleas to be let out, had been spent the past few weeks there, trying to recuperate. Now, the local cantina had turned into a food bank and community center of sorts, since most other public establishments (the general store included) had been destroyed by the monsoon. Anyone who wanted a drink, food, grocery, or even temporary shelter could be found there. And that might be where both the Mandalorians, Jedi, and their allies find themselves. It's crowded, and there's a line out the door, but at least it isn't raining anymore. This crowd probably isn't where anyone would want to find themselves, but for the Mandalorians, it could bode well. If the clone or Baron hadn't made it back to their Gorge before the monsoon had hit, they'd be here. Where else could they be? There were really only two places in town to get rations these past few weeks, and the hospital restock had ran out this morning and wouldn't be getting anymore until tomorrow night. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha is doing as she has done for several monsoons before. She's helping with clean up, making sure hovercarts and other equipment stay maintained while the work happens. It isn't glorious, in fact, it's dirty and rotten - in more ways than one. She had likely gone to at least check in with Wiis, but helping the community get cleaned up and ready for repair work is helping her sort thoughts and stay out of trouble. For the most part. 

:'''{{#var:418|Jorn (418)}} has posed:''' Jorn is out there with crews. Doing his best to keep a low profile, which may be the opposite of his actions. Sometimes to blend in, you make yourself part of the attention. There are times wallflowers stand out. He banks on that being true. And so, Jorn's out with scouting parties to gain resources. In reality, he's keeping an eye out. Using the guise of helping, which does create a positive side effect, but tries to keep his head peeled for anything interesting, targets, etc. Also, to figure out how bad the mansoon truly hit the planet. Because that will effect their later plans. 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     Ellari is here, although she probably should be at the hospital, given the injuries she'd sustained against a 'mysterious attacker'. And yeah, -she- knows this was the person responsible for the explosion. And that he'd been a raving madman about some 'sister' or other. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde is definitely not at the cantina. There are far too many people there, all concentrated in one spot, and all stressed and anxious. A recipe for disaster, truly. So instead, he is out with Jorn's scouting party scavenging through remains and potentially looking for anyone who might be alive but trapped or something. 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' Ellari is alive. That's good. Volkenis refusing to speak to her. That's probably bad. In fact he's pretty much not been speaking to anyone and has been more or less isolating himself since recovering his armor from 'Crane', having his own injuries attended to post Navi's own efforts, and basically has ignored people attempting to reach out ot him most of the time. Considering that hi strength could be quite useful in rebuilding things .. that's probably not very helpful, but perhaps he's fallen into some sort of depression .. meaning that he might not be much good after all. EIther way he rarely appears in public. Until now, when he emerges from where he'd been isolating himself and starts to approach the Cantina. 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' Navi had never thought she'd be grateful to Cayde for doing something insane. But thanks to his clearing the giant tree bole from the tressel, the tram has continued to run, and access to Aklyrr Bend has remained open. Which is a good thing, considering how much of Kublop Springs has been flattened by the monster monsoon. Some of the settlers, lacking homes, have been temporarily housed in Aklyrr Bend, and, thanks to having access to the comms array in the newer colony, Republic disaster relief has been quick in coming. Most of the town is still living in tents, though, which likely isn't helping anyone's nerves. It's rather discomfiting to wake up with a local bird perched on your chest, too. Navi has split her time between the two settlements, assisting with search and rescue in Kublop and helping Aklyrr stay peaceful, especially with the temporary residents. She had set up a tent in Kublop that she was sharing (somewhat reluctantly) with Cayde, since the long tram ride made daily commutes exhausting at best. Presently she's in line outside the tavern to receive rations for herself and Cayde. Seeing Volken approaching, she waves to him. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Zetha will be busy helping with the community rebuilding effort, probably barely thinking about much else other than the work in front of her when she'll feel someone tug on her wrist gently. If she turns around, she'll find herself face to face with a cloaked figure. She won't be able to see his face, as its evening, and the area they're in doesn't have very good lighting. Jorn will likely be equally busy when he too, gets approached. Not by a cloaked stranger, but by the Republic private eye, Arsok Vons. He'll tap the green armored Mandalorian on the shoulder to get his attention. He'll notice Cayde here too, but he doesn't say anything to the young padawan - he'll only give him a telltale arched brow, one that the padawan had learned meant 'stay out of my investigation.' As Volken approaches the cantina, he'll be able to see that the young Disciple he'd rescued from the tunnels during the monsoon is out front, handing out hygiene kits and ration packs. When he sees Volken approaching, his eyes light up and he starts making his way over to the mammoth Mandalorian. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Ellari will find herself approached by Er'gi, suddenly. He doesn't seem too happy. "And where've you been all this time? Care to explain why you left Volken in the sewers, to nearly drown?" 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' The tugged wrist is just barely free from the tossing of debris onto a hovercart when it happens. She turns into the tugging, seeing the cloaked figure with a hidden face, but something in her gut tells her she knows who this is. Still, in case her gut is wrong, she plays it cool. "Yes? Can I help you with something? If you're looking for where the rations and such are being given out that would be at the cantina near the middle of town.." Offering at least that much. 

:'''{{#var:418|Jorn (418)}} has posed:''' Jorn focuses helping others, but that republic office gets a look. "Officer," he says respectfully and keeps it to that. Just simple, brief and to the point. He figures questions are incoming. 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     "Do I have to follow him to the end of the line?" Ellari asks grumbles. "There are some members of my own House I wouldn't do that for, and you expect me to do so for him? He was making a rash decision, but I am not strong enough to force him to protect himself." Clearly, since he's volumes larger than her. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde actually avoids looking at Vons, to be honest. It's become abundantly clear to him that the Zeltron doesn't like him. 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' Given that he's the second biggest person there, its impossible for Volken to miss Er'gi's giant frame go up towards Ellari and equally impossible to miss his body language. He can't hear them but it's clear to him that Er'gi is being confrontational. Volken's helmet is on and so his own expression cannot be read but his body language is neutral to that and he turns away to find a seat on a large crate to rest himself once again. Navi is seen by now so he lifts a gigantic arm upwards and offers her a wave only to pause and lower it as he sees Crane beginning to approach him. "...So you're up and about... Good." he rumbles. "Glad to see you. As soon as the spaceport is cleared and repaired I'll be leaving to head back for work out in the Outer Rim. You're welcome to join if you're looking for a way back to Jedha. There's little for me to worry about doing here anymore." 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' Navi can't surrender her place in line without adding at least an hour to her waiting time, but she does watch Volken and "Crane" as they speak. She smiles and waves back as the massive Mandalorian waves in response to her earlier wave, glad to see him for the first time since the monsoon had finally ebbed. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' The cloaked figure starts to back away into a narrow, dark alley nearby. He beckons for her to follow. Quietly he says to her, "Yes, actually. You owe me, remember?" Of course, Zetha will recognize the voice. Maybe she'll be filled with dread. "Alright, I'll skip the pleasantries," he says, "you should know what I'm about to ask next," he says, "The female Mandalorian you've been seen with - where is she?" Er'gi grumbles back at her. "So much for loyalty! What are you even doing here, if you only ever planned to be present when it was convenient for you? Unless you've got your own machinations...?" Crane waves and smiles to Navi as well, but follows Volken into the cantina like an akk puppy. "And yourself?" Crane says, suddenly looking the hulking Mandalorian over in a concerned fashion. "You're feeling, better, right?" When he says that he'll be leaving soon, his expression suddenly becomes somewhat disappointed. "Oh," he says, "well, The other Disciples of the Whill have me stationed at the outpost here ... it's destroyed now, so I'm not sure if they'll want me to come back or not. But I'd probably stay if they let me." A pause. "You.. want to leave? What were you here for in the first place?" Moments after Volken and Crane have gone inside, the young Sephi girl will be approached by the cantina owner. "Co-Deputy! I'm so relieved! You're doing alright, I hope?" She holds out a bottle of water and a ration pack, somewhat to the dismay of others behind Navi. "I kinda need a favor. Figured I'd give the handout before I asked..." 

:'''{{#var:418|Jorn (418)}} has posed:''' "That doesn't narrow things down. You'll have to be more specific. I have a few associates that are female," Jorn says not realizing how smooth, unsmooth, and every other way he doesn't sound. In his mind this is "legally stall mode." "Are you referring to my fiance? She's off world. Dealing with the in-law. Or did you mean my in-law?" Again, these are not lies. "Both are blaster pistols without the safeties. You'll need to describe them in detail, so I know -which- female Mandalorian you mean," he continues just being open and honest. 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' Navi steps out of line, accepting the ration pack and the water bottle. "Thank you, and I am well enough. Perhaps I can assist you with handing out the evening's rations while you explain the issue? It's best we not keep these good people waiting any longer than necessary," she advises gently. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha follows, but as soon as his voice grates against her ears, her eyes narrow. "In case you haven't noticed, we're in the middle of a crisis. And last I recall...you managed to escape the hospital without being caught." She shakes her head a little. "I don't have what you're likely wanting from me. It's been a bit hectic here lately. And I don't work on your schedule when my town's in ruin." 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' Volken doesn't answer immediately, just sitting there on a crate before finally rumbling, "Mandalorian business. Nothing that'd make sense or is important enough for me to run through all the steps. Needless to say I was here with the others related to some politics back on my homeworld and then we got swept up in all the other stuff happening. Plus there's a fugitive here that we were interested in aprehending but it doesn't matter now. I'm past the point of caring since being reminded of how my people were raised. If anything it's let me know I need to maybe get back to basics." Volken lifts a hand and makes an absent gesture, "Stay here and do what you need o do. I'm just lettin' you konw. Not like I have any ship booked yet. Itll be a minute given the condition of the place. I already got an idea of where to go for work though so it'll be fine." 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     "-Convenient-?" Ellari scoffs, glaring at Er'gi. He dares insinuate this was about 'convenience'? "I came out here to help Jorn escape from injustice on Mandalore. I went to Jedha, -and then- I came here, to this backwater planet only to be caught in storm and had multiple parties attempt to take my life for no discernible reason. And you call that 'convenience'? I should -gut- you." 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde watches Jorn and Vons' conversation for a moment, but soon loses interest and goes back to helping search through the rubble of the damaged convent. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "Look, don't be -difficult-," Vons says, "I know, I know. You Mandalorians have a built a reputation on being difficult, but I'm just saying. You don't have be like the other guys," he says. "I'm not trying to get anyone arrested." A pause, "Alright, fine, I am, but I'm not trying to get -her- arrested specifically. Unless there's reason to arrest her. Which there might but, but my gut says 'probably not' this time. And even if there was, we probably still wouldn't because the Republic would like to avoid starting the Mandalorian Galactic Wars all over again. I just need to ask her a few questions. That's all." The Mandalorian removes his hood, and smiles at her, his sapphire blue eyes glittering in the dim light. "My dear, I'm not angry at you. I wasn't asking for you deliver the items right now. I am, however, offering to assist you in getting them, right now. You won't have to do much, honestly. Just offer your help to the bartender serving drinks at cantina, and make sure a certain glass, or two, doesn't get taken to the washer. I'll take care of the rest. And then, tomorrow, I'll take you to my lab. I promise. What do you think?" "It's okay," Crane reassures Volken softly. "you're upset, aren't you? You know, just because you're not like the rest of the Mandalorians doesn't disqualify you from being one." The young Disciple actually pats Volken's hand gently, then shrugs. "Why don't you stay here for work? The town could use someone like you. I certainly did. I would have died if it hadn't been for you. And while I can't pay you, maybe someone else could, and would." Volken might suddenly remember that Xera is here. And she had, actually, tasked him with something. In regards to Cayde. Well, that's another thing, isn't it? "Oh, yah," the cantina owner says, continuing to hand out some of the rations in the box she's carrying while also giving some to Navi to hand out. "I need some help with the cellar out back. The door's covered with a bunch of debris from the storm! And lots o'folk are coming around now not just for rations but for their valuables. It's been tradition whenever it storms like this that a lot of folk here in Kublop ask me to put up their valuables in the wine casks so they don't get damaged by the flooding. The cellar itself likely flooded, but the empty wine casks are sturdy and can seal up real good so likely no damage done to the valuables. So do ya think you can get to them and open 'em up? Would be nice to make sure those heirlooms get back into the right hands!" There's not much for Cayde to find, just more and more debris. His attention will be diverted anyway, as Luli and doctor suddenly approach. The young Mikkian girl seems disturbed, and Cayde probably won't even need the Force to notice. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "Oh did you?" Er'gi says heatedly, "Or is that just what you've been telling everyone, to save face?" "Gut me? Oh please. You can try." He challenges. 

:'''{{#var:418|Jorn (418)}} has posed:''' "You're still not specifying which -her-." Jorn points out as the man is being presumptive. He does know a few female mandalorians. "You did not give me a description or anything to work with." 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha's brows furrow a bit and she looks back to the crowd just across the way before looking back to him. She figures she's all in now either way and even if he gets his hands on some DNA - well - she doesn't have to ensure that it's any particular person's glass right? Something else is on her mind though and she faces him, arms crossing over her chest. "Answer me this first. Are you some high ranking official in the Mandalorian's eyes? A baron, I think, is what I've heard." 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' Oh he hadn't forgotten about Xera. IN fact that was -exactly- who he was intending on contacting. But he also didn't want to be here. She had a large family. A fortune. Plenty of trouble to get up to. That thing about Cayde though... she probably -would- want him to do that first. But... "I don't want -be- here anymore for one." he says, "I might be inclined to..." One thing about big Mandalorians.. they can be loud. Er'gi is loud. Volken narrows his eyes behind his helmet and then finally sighs and stands, turning to start for the exit of the Cantina and the outside where the other Mandalorians are. "Just a sec." he says towards "Crane". 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "If it's a lot of debris, I'm not the best suited to moving it. But I know someone who is, and possibly another person who might be willing to help," Navi replies to the barkeep, as she begins to hand out rations and water bottles. "I'll need to pick up a second set of rations for a co-habitant of mine who has been assisting with the search and rescue efforts, but that can wait until we've got all this stuff passed out." 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde was pulling some debris out of a half-shattered convent window, the pieces filtering out of it in almost a single-file line and floating up in front of him. Most of it is just broken shards of building materials, but there seems to be a necklace among them that still has some shine to it. Probably isn't that valuable, but maybe. Couldn't hurt to check.     He looks over to Luli, noting the disturbed expression on her face. [How can I help] he signs to them. 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     Ellari could have had many words for Er'gi. Like why doesn't he ask Volken? Why would she spin a lie that could be countered by people who are physically here? She isn't stupid. But she has just about had it, after everything.     So without another word, she lunges at the larger Mandalorian and takes a swing at the side of his head! 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "You -know-!" the red skinned private investigator grumbles at Jorn. "She's the only female Mandalorian on Tenoo. At least the only one everyone is aware of. Ellari, Ellarin Zin. Where the hell is she? I thought you were supposed to be some kind of ally to the kid, so why aren't you trying to be more helpful?!" "And if I said yes," the baron says, "what would that mean to you? You want to see the lab? You have to help me in this. Discreetly. See you at the cantina." And he turns to leave, but he leaves his hood off. Which doesn't make sense, he'd just asked her to help him discreetly. He makes a show of leaving the alley, and crossing over to wherever Jorn and the group he'd been helping out is. He'll make sure that Jorn sees him. He'll even pause, and stop to make eye contact with the green armored Mandalorian, while he's splitting hairs about 'which female Mandalorian' with the private investigator. Then he'll turn on his heel, swish his cape, and disappear into the thronging crowd of sweaty volunteers, heading in the general direction of the cantina. "Okay," the young Disciple says. "well, I want you to be here. I--" But then the mammoth Mandalorian hears a commotion outside, and gets up to leave. "Oh, perfecto!" the bartender says, "thank ye for your help. It's really appreciated," she says to Navi. "And don't worry about the rations. Take whatever you need." "There's something we need to discuss," the doctor says, "concerning the Arkanians. But it's getting cold out, and you should take a break. Let's head to the cantina. We can talk there, over hot drinks." Ellari manages to land a fist on the left side of Er'gi's head, and he growls, "Or'dinii. I'll crush you like the weakling you are, Vizsla vixen...!" He reaches over to try to grab Ellari by the neck, and that's how Volken will find them. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     But Cayde hesitates when Soren suggests going to the cantina. He glances over in the direction of the long line out the door and even more people milling about outside, and shakes his head. [Not there] he insists. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha watches as he leaves the alley and then looks down at the ground for a lingering moment. Then, in a moment of mental frustration, she pulls out her comm and types out a message to Soren. <<You know what really sucks about being right but no one will listen to you? Is that you're still right, and everything is about to turn to shit. He's here. The Baron. Jasper. Whatever the kriff you all want to kriffing call him is HERE. And he wants me to help at the cantina and make sure a few specific glasses don't necessarily go to the washer. Hope you read all this because if shit goes south I might just take all of you with me. ~Z.>> That done she huffs a breath and makes her way towards the cantina. Slowly, however. Because she's going to see who all she can clock that's around just in case things actually /do/ go south. 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' Another day and another time, if Volken had of truly been entertaining any sort of attraction to Ellari - he might have reacted very, very, badly. Right now he might very well be a Sith that's actually piloting Er'gi pschically for how mad he's been. Buuuut...he can't just let them kill each other, no matter how ticked off he is. So.. "HEY! Stop! Er'gi, stop!" Volken rushes in and reaches forward to try and grab and push Er'gi back from Ellari, using his other arm to shove her as well. It's ironic that this is the first time the two mammoths have probably pitted against each other. Given how competitive Mando's can be youd' tink they've at least tried an arm wrestling match or some other contest to pass the time but soo much has been going on, so now they shall see if one can actually restrain the other. "C'mon vod.!" 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     When Er'gi grabs Ellari's neck, she lashes out with a knee to the groin. And then Volken shows up in a rather timely fashion, shoving her away from the other bulky Mandalorian.     "Volken! Why don't you tell this hu'tuun just how long I've been on this journey with you?" 

:'''{{#var:418|Jorn (418)}} has posed:''' There's a pause, "I don't know where she is at this second, but since you said nothing is official. Nor are you detaining her, give me your data chain. The thing about her, she's private. You want answers, let her come to you. Let her come into territory she thinks is neutral," Jorn says honestly to the investigator. Is the anno yance noted? Yes. Jorn is just used to having that effect on people. Jorn holds his hand out for contact information. "Since, we're being nice here," the inspect did talk about being nice with each other. 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "Well, don't thank me yet. Wait until after the job's done," Navi advises gently, continuing to hand out rations. "With all this rebuilding, it may take a few days to get to it, but we'll do it. And thank you very kindly for your generosity." She touches her comm earbud. << Cayde, are you there? The lady who runs the cantina that provides our rations when we're in town needs a favor that is right up your alley, >> she says softly into its mic. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "Cayde," Soren says gently but firmly, "you can't just keep hoping a problem will go away by avoiding it. Remember, it's about exposure and control. If you want Rykard present, he's around, you can just ask him to accompany us. Besides, I'm not having us talk out here in the the freezing cold and we're definitely not walking to the hospital right now either. It's not better there, anyway." He pauses with a sigh. "It'll be fine," He tells Cayde, "I'll get us a room. Now let's go." Then he looks down at his comm and sees the message from Zetha. Another sigh. "Looks like we're both needed at the cantina anyway," he tells Cayde, "Zetha might have run into some trouble." <Stay calm and keep an eye on him, alright? We're heading to the cantina now> the doctor reassures Zetha. Zetha will see the long line of people wrapping around the block near the cantina. She'll see a few familiar faces on her way there- Thaarin, Master Rykard, the mayor and his son. She won't see the doctor - yet anyway, they must have gone on ahead and reached it before she did. Er'gi resists for a split second, but then relents. He seems rather upset, though, still. "What? You're going to -defend- her? After she abandoned you and the civilians?? Have some honor, vod!" He sighs, exasperated. "What are we even doing here? Where's Jorn, even?" "Oh, okay, well that's so helpful," the Zeltron remarks derisively. Regardless, he hands him a card with his data chain on it. But then, the baron is passing by. "Hey, isn't that..." he squints. "Isn't that the clone that went missing like a month or so ago?" he says, pointing at baron's retreating figure. Of all the people to show up! Very possibly, the man Jorn has been trying to confront! There he is, heading for the cantina. "Of course!" The barkeep tells Navi. "If you need anything, or see anythin' funny, I'll be inside." 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' "Long enough to leave me behind and save your own -skin-?" explodes Volken at Ellari as she makes her demands and it uncaps his fury finally. "You -left- me, Zin. You knew I couldn't make that climb with that mud coming in while also trying to carry two wounded and guide the Inspector. If you'd stayed with us and trusted t'group effort then the Inspector wouldn't be -dead-. Instead you threw the wounded at me and took off on yoru own and all you got to show for it was getting -shot up-." Volken makes a dismissive gesture at her and turns away. "And dont' think I didn't consider your little skirmish might not have had anything to do with the cave in that led to the mans death! If you'd just trusted us then we'd all maybe made out of there without a scratch. But you dont' even have the decency or self awareness enough to even consider if you'd made a msitake--and you're bothered about if Er'gi thinks you've been on this planet long enough! Bic ni skana'din!" ER'gi's complaints were probably lost in the explosive boom that is Volken's deep voice. He just stares at Ellari, not answering anyone else. They probably heard all of that in the Cantina as well. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Oh she's calm alright. And Zetha will stay calm until there's no time for calm any longer. The fact that Jasper has walked towards the cantina has her a little uneasy because as much as she'll be trying to keep an eye on him he'll likely be waiting for her to pass glasses and stuff to him. She does take note of those she sees as she passes but since she's trying to get into the cantina to help and not to jump the line she hopes no one barks at her for trying to cut or anything. Though she will keep an eye out for Soren once inside the cantina. Maybe everyone will be distracted by the Big Scary Mandalorian shouting words at someone. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde hesitates again, watching the doctor for a moment, but finally starts to follow him. He heard Navi's message and sighs. Well, he supposes he'll have to do this. So he starts doing his best to mentally prepare for the inevitable cacophony inside the cantina. Internal -and- external... 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' Navi heard Volken quite clearly, as she's not that far away. But she can't leave her post near the door, passing out ration packs and water bottles, since the owner has stepped away. So she keeps working and hopes this doesn't turn into a war or something... 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     "Well -excuse me- if I didn't want to follow -you- on a suicide mission!" Ellari explodes back at Volken. "And how dare you blame the inspector's death on me, when it's clear this was your -own- failure! I -tried- to dissuade you, but you wouldn't listen! We are not the Republic police, or the Jedi, or anyone with any such obligations to 'save everyone or die trying' especially in a -Republic- colony! If you had a death wish, there was nothing I could do to sway you from it, as you are many times my size, aren't you? I was -attacked-, not the other way around, so no, the explosion was -not- my fault or my doing!"     She looks about ready to start shooting or swinging again, but instead she just turns on her heel. "I'm -leaving- this accursed backwater planet, since none of you seem to have any gratitude for anything I've done." With that she begins to storm out of the cantina. 

:'''{{#var:418|Jorn (418)}} has posed:''' Jorn takes the contact info. However,a s he is about to shoot Ellari a message, the words leave the investigator. That causes Jorn to run toward that direction. Oh, he needs to track this one down. Figure out what's going to happen. Jorn's getting a few things ready for apprehension if need be. "I don't think he was allowed to leave with hopsital consent," he will add knowing insticnts are battling. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Er'gi stays silent, brooding, as Volken explodes at Ellari. The two of them exchanged heated words, and then Ellari is storming out of the cantina angrily. The young Disciple 'Crane' approaches Volken again, his expression sad. "I-I'm sorry. This is my fault, isn't it? Maybe she's right. You.. you shouldn't have given me your armor so that I could live." He averts his gaze, and Er'gi stares at Volken in disbelief. "You gave him your beskar'gam...vod..." He trails off and then looks away. The Zeltron man opens his mouth to reply to Jorn, but Jorn has already run off, straight for the cantina. He follows, brows furrowed as he hurries after him. Jorn will see him approach the cantina, stopping just a few hundred meters shy of it to pull out his commlink. He's messaging Zetha. <You need to get behind the bar. As luck would have it, they're all here. Now, listen carefully. I'm going to order them a round of drinks, it'll be on me. But when you bring it out, you'll need to make sure they leave some liquid in their cups. Make it bitter, make it too strong, whatever you like. Then, when you clear away the cups, naturally, don't take them to the washer. Put them in something sealed, and bring them with you tomorrow when we go to the lab. Got it?> Once that's done, he puts away his commlink, and without any hesitation, approaches Ellari, Volken, and Er'gi in the front of the cantina. In fact, Ellari might almost run into him. He flashes a charming smile. "Hello there~" he says, "miss me?" He also turns around, to give Jorn a faint smile and a pointed look. Navi, of course, will get to witness this spectacle, since she's out front handing out rations. The doctor, Cayde, and Luli will arrive soon after, but the doctor will instruct them to not get distracted. "We'll worry about that later," he tells Cayde, "let's focus on finding a room for now so we can talk about what happened at the hospital." 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha has likely been doing work in the cantina when she needs breaks from tearing stuff down. Just being where she's needed when she's needed while things get all settled. So it won't be a surprise that she's behind the bar - but only just. As that message comes through her commlink, she'll read it, and then send back a quick <<Got it. Whatever you say.>> Then she's flipping over to her messages with Soren, but first she glances up in time to watch as 'Jasper' actually walks up to the other Mandalorians. Then she sends to the doctor, <<He's brazenly walking up to the Mandalorians. Told me what I need to do. I need something I can set glasses into that's sealed...and likely someone'e help after.>> Now she's worried - all of this is getting much too real. 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' "I ddidn't -give- him my beskar, I put my helmet and torso armor on him so he woudln't be crushed when I used my body to blast through several yards of rock that was collapsing on us while the place caved in because of her loosin' a fight over our heads." sneers Volken. He's not having any of this 'Way of Mandalore' nonsenese right now. "If that makes me a heretic to you Er'gi then...." Volken stops himself, suddenly feeling a pang there. He doesn't -want- Er'gi to be upset. He actually -doesn't- want Ellari to be upset either but he also believes she's wholly in the wrong here. "....I don't -know- why we're still here anymore. " he finally admits, "We came here to help Jorn, assuming he'd get some training with the Dark Saber and that's barely happened. It's just been one thing after another. I suppose we wanted to get to the bottom of the whole clone thing but that's just been a nonstop circle. The officers and republic here don't even trust each other and the Jedi are so stuck in their rules and regulations that it gets in the way of any progress." He finally looks at Er'gi firmly, "I'm leaving as soon as I can find passage and you're welcome to come. I've got a gorgeous woman with tons of credits to her name willing to pay me regularly and pay me well but I've ignored that -beacuse- I wanted to help these di'kut's. No more. I'm leaving them to their fates." He puts his helmet back on now and then addresses Crane, "It's not yer fault Kass was insane and you got hurt. It's done. I'm over it." 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde purses his lips and clenches his jaw as he enters the crowded cantina, just barely managing to keep himself anchored in the moment. He just keeps his gaze focused on Soren's back, following him through the crowds... 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' Navi winces, watching the fireworks between Volken and the female Mandalorian. "That didn't sound good," she murmurs, passing over two more ration packs and two more bottles of water, hoping the barkeep will be back soon. She doesn't mind handing out rations to hungry people, but it's a lot slower with only one person passing things out, and she has a feeling she may need to intervene sometime soon. 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     It was a good thing Ellari didn't hear Crane saying that Volken had given his beskar to him earlier, as she is already out of earshot and outside the cantina. But then, Caine just...waltzes up to her with that smug smirk of his. She doesn't care what he wants. For all she knows, he was the one who attacked her with such relentless aggression during the storm. But whether it was him or not, her only answer to that is a blaster bolt aimed at his head. 

:'''{{#var:418|Jorn (418)}} has posed:''' Jorn hangs backa nd tries to see what's beign said int he conversation. Everything about the contact. Trying to get intel on everything. His attention focused on more of the waht, why and similar questions. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' The barkeep and the other employees, of course, don't blink an eye when Zetha comes into the kitchen. Instead, they just smile and wave, and go back to work (of which there is a plenty of right now), totally unsuspecting. Maybe Zetha will feel bad. Or maybe she'll refuse to think about what any of anything means right now, and just focus on the task at hand. The doctor doesn't reply, but she'll espy him ushering Luli and a rather disgruntled looking Cayde into the cantina, towards the back where the private meeting rooms are. He'll spare her a glance, but no more. Er'gi doesn't say anything, he doesn't seem to know what to say. All he does is point at the Baron, who has suddenly materialized in front of the cantina. "Well, don't leave just yet," the Baron says to Volken, "I was going to tell you the truth about the clone. About why I'm here. You've been chasing me for months, well, here I am. Everything you've ever wanted since coming here." And then Ellari shoots him. The blast grazes his cheek, burning a perfectly blackened mark onto his well sculpted cheekbones. He winces, and seems to be in a lot of pain, but is it an act? "I don't want to fight you," he says dramatically, as by now, the entirety of Kublop is watching, enraptured. Nothing interesting had ever really started happening until the Mandos had shown up, and townsfolk couldn't help but drink it up. "I come in peace." He suddenly goes over to Jorn and rests a hand on his shoulder. He squeezes it, perhaps a little too hard. "I know you've toiled, sweated tears and blood to find me. To get an explanation. And I'm going to give you one. I'm going to tell you everything, why I'm here, why I did what I did. It's the least that you deserve." A pause. "Well, you all look like you could use a drink. I'll open a tab, order whatever you like. And then we can talk." Meanwhile, as Navi is continuing to hand out rations and hoping things don't go horribly sideways, she'll spot Mondrian (F) in the line. She looks terrible. Her skin is pale, her lips look blue, and there's dark circles under eyes. 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "Mondrian? Force help you, you look like /frell/," Navi says softly. "What's happened? Are you all right?" 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' The timing couldn't have been more perfect as he was -just- about to put a comm call out to Xera after seperating from the shell-shocked Er'gi. Making peace with potentially losing one of the last connections to Mandalore there. "Fine.." he rumbles, "..Guess I'm just a hereti--" He stops his words when he hears Caine, sees the blaster shot go off and he turns about to stare in that direction. Fortunately his helmet is on now, staying nice and secure. He says nothing. He doesn't even move. He may -actually- be out of any Dank farrik's to give. But - he doesn't leave. He just glances at Er'gi and then back towards The Baron and also sees Jorn at that point. Finally he rumbles. "Just get to the point. No theatrics. Or I"m out and they can deal with ripping your head off by themselves." 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     Ellari doesn't attack again, but she just glares daggers at Caine. "-Now- you come clean? Ha! Do you take us as utreekov, hu'tuun? This is all part of some sort of manipulative scehem of yours, and I'm -not- falling for it this time!"     She then storms past him, still intent on leaving. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha sort of keeps an eye on where the Mandalorians are, but she also helps out the kitchen/bar as well. If they order, they order. But the way things are just -looking- at the moment, no one is happy to see the Baron and no one is ordering a drink anytime soon. Maybe this idea will fall out from under 'Jaspers' plan. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "I'm fine," Mondrian (F) shoots back at Navi, even though it's really clear that she's not. "I'm fine." She repeats. But she won't look Navi in the eye, and the young Sephi girl will have already have heard the reports about her brother being missing. "I've been conducting research," The Baron says, reaching into his pocket and pulling out a small medical adhesive and covering the wound on his cheek with it. "That's all I've ever wanted to do, ever since I was young," he continues. "That's why I'm here. Come, let's all get drinks, and I'll tell you more," he glances at Ellari, "if you don't want to, that's your loss." He shrugs, and starts heading inside. Zetha will be able to see him heading for the bar now. Whether the others are in tow... well only time will tell. Meanwhile, The doctor has found a room for himself, Luli, and Cayde. "I think the morticians are up to something," Luli suddenly explains, "something illegal. I don't know what. They broke protocol, and I thought that was very unusual. Maybe credits were involved." 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde follows Luli and Soren into a back room, listening to the Mikkian begin to explain what's on her mind.     [Which protocol] he asks. [Which morticians...why credits] 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' Navi places Mondrian's (F) ration pack and water bottle into her hands, then lays her hands against the taller woman's hands, drawing upon the Force to aid her body in healing itself. "You don't /look/ fine. You look like the /opposite/ of fine. Is this about your brother being missing?" she asks. 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' "NO" Volken's deep vioce explodes with that fury again. He raises an enormous arm and fires off a single shot towards the ground infront ot the Baron, be it into the outside of the Cantina or no. The repulsor gauntlet explodes dust and debris skywards as the huge Mandalorian seems steps forward, overshdaowing even Er'gi now as if all restraints he's had are being broken. "We are NOT getting rinks. TALK. NOW." He said he's ahd enough and he has had enough. There's been too much circlular logic, running back and forth and people thinking that they can control the flow of this. If the Baron would reveal what this is all about, as far as Vooken is concerned he can do it now, or be crushed - and then he's leaving. "SPEAK." 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "Well, I mean for sanitation reasons and to make sure no outside environmental factors affect the autopsy while it's in progress, the morticians are supposed to seal off the mortuary anytime they're performing any kind of work on a dead body," Luli explains. "What I saw was the two of them clearly working on the inspector's body, with the doors wide open." She shakes their head. "They were talking about asking for credits. What for, I'm not sure, but it doesn't bode well," she tells Cayde. The dark circles under Mondrian's (F) eyes fade and her face goes two shades less pale. "Thanks," she murmurs, still refusing to look at Navi. She sighs. "Look. Just don't worry about it. Everything will be a lot less complicated if we just take it at face value. He's missing, or dead, and probably not worth looking, in all honesty." She shrugs, as if trying to pretend none of it mattered. "Alright, that's fine," the Baron says calmly, despite Volken's outburst. He waves a hand dismissively. "-I'm- going to get something to drink, and sit down. If you want answers, you'll at least join me at a table. You see, I'm in a bit of a predicament. Don't worry, it'll be worth six hundred thousand credits for you and whoever decides to help you," he spares a Jorn a fleeting glance, "and whatever admission and information you want regarding the Dark Saber, what I did with it, and why I did it." 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Zetha will likely be able to see the Baron talking to Volken and Jorn in the entry way to the cantina. If she's looking for some kind of sign, or signal from him, she'll get none. Volken clearly doesn't want drinks, so... so much for that plan. She might be anxiously waiting for some kind of communication from the Baron when she'll get a tap on her shoulder from the bar owner herself. "Hey uh... how long you stayin' to help tonight? The folks on street clean up said you dipped in the middle of a massive haul. I think they kinda need you back..." 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha is almost of the mind that the Baron is having a difficult time getting people to actually get drinks. When the bar owner taps her on the shoulder she flushes purple in her cheeks and shakes her head. "I got distracted by something else... I'll go help them out again...but listen.." She tries to coyly motion over towards 'Jasper' and crew. "He's going to order some drinks. He'll be expecting me to not let the glasses get washed. I know it's the craziest thing to ask...but can you just set them aside if his friends order anything and I'll come back soon to take care of them? I'll even pay you for the glasses out of my own pockets. We just can't lose this opportunity." Because she trusts the bar owner - they've likely been through a lot together over the years. 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' "You don't get to walk in here and act like you've got control over this situation. I will BREAK YOU IN HALF." Volken starts forward slowly, hands twitching now and helmet fully on, giving him the look of an approaching tank. "I'm tired. I've nearly drowned. I"ve people I thought I could start to depend on betray my trust betrayed and I've been running all over this forsaken planet trying to find you and deal with you while your insane brother continues to betray any attempts I've given him to prove his worth! You don't just -swagger- in here and then act like you can call the -shots-. -I- call these shots! Stay where you are and explain things -here-! -NOW-. Or I'll tear your head off and I"m leaving!" He waves a hand at the end of all that, though still bearing down. "Credit's are meaningless in the face of personal satisfaction. I've -got- access to mountains of credit if I want to earn it. Now. TALK---NOW-" If Jorn, Er'gi or Ellari don't intervene--Volken will likely be ontop of Caine in a moment. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde listens to what Luli has to say, considering what it might mean. Were they trying to fabricate something about the inspector's death? Was someone paying them to do it? But whatever for?     But he doesn't outwardly respond immediately, simply sitting there with a mildly pensive expression that is fixed on the Mikkian girl. 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "If that's what you want," Navi says reluctantly to Mondrian (F). "But if you need someone to talk to, or any kind of help besides that, I'm available. Or at least I'll try to be, given the state of this town." She glances over her shoulder at the angry roars coming from the barroom. "That's sounding worse and worse..." she observes softly, then shouts, "Barkeep! Could someone take over ration distribution, please? I might be needed in a moment!" 

:'''{{#var:418|Jorn (418)}} has posed:''' Jorn is quiet for a moment. He's just listening. Trying really hard not to put his hand on the trigger. Just shoot first, ask questions later. The armored Mandalorian watches. Waiting for more. He will ask a simple question, "Why should we trust you?" 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' The bar owner rubs her head, confused. ".. er, so what's this all about Zetha? You know that guy, he was looking for you that one time, what happened? Are you alright? Are you trouble? Because Wiis isn't gonna like that." Caine doesn't seem bothered by Volken's aggressive demeanor. "Then sit down," he says, sitting down at a table just a few feet away from the other Mandalorian and gesturing. He looks to Jorn. "Because," he says, "I understand." he says to both of them. "I get it. He's my brother, I've had to put up with him my entire life, not just half a year. He's a symptom of a society whose so called backbone is honor but as soon as that honor is perceived as gone, you're thrown to the akk dogs. Mandalore is thriving, for now. We're drowning in disunity, Volken. We're eating chaos for every meal and calling it prosperity. It's pathetic, and you know it. I bet you anything in a few hundred years time, we'll have turned our planet into a gutted hole in the aftermath of our infighting." He sighs. "We're on a doomed trajectory," he says to Volken and Jorn. He sighs. "And that's why what I'm doing here, and the job I'm offering you, is more important than five hundred thousand more credits in your pocket. You see, the planting of the Dark Saber on Jorn wasn't just some hateful act fueled by a thirst for revenge. Yes, I did want revenge, and still despise Jorn for taking the love of my life, but there's more important matters at hand." "He was a distraction. A distraction so I could slip away, to indulge in my research while pretending that I didn't want to admit that I'd put the Dark Saber in Jorn's possession purely out of spite." "I'm going to fix Mandalore. I'm going to fix our political crisis, gut Revara's mother's influence, and level the playing field for both Houses. House Vizsla, despite my allegiance to it, has been in power far too long for it's own good. If I succeed, there will be no more backstabbing, no more foolish duels and bloodshed over ancient relics that by themselves, mean nothing." He suddenly gets up, and goes over to the bar, motioning to Zetha. He then whispers to her. "I need you to turn up the heating in here. Maximum capacity." Then he goes back to his seat across from Jorn and Volken. "You know I'm right. I'm making progress. Good progress. But I've hit a snag with the Arkanians." The doctor frowns at Cayde. "I want you to interrogate them," he says to the young padawan, "but of course, not without Rykard's supervision. Do you think you can do that?" Mondrian doesn't say yes anything. She doesn't say yes, and she doesn't say yes no. Instead, she just stands there, hands in her pocket. Her expression distant. Suddenly, she says to Navi, "Hey do you think, that if there's um, room at the bar, that you'd want to get drinks...? With me. If you don't want to, that's fine. You seem busy anyway. Sorry." 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "If I promise I'll tell you after will that be good enough? I'm not in trouble. Not really. I'm helping Doctor Cassias and a few others get down to the bottom of some nefarious things and that one is the root of it. And I'm the catalyst. Also. Please don't tell mom. She'll kill me before anything else does..." Then Zetha looks towards the baron and others. "Now. I'm going to go help haul stuff because I can...and if he asks about me...just tell him I got called to go repair something. He should understand." 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Interrogate? As in, search their minds for intentions, memories? Cayde assumes that's what he means, anyway, resisting the urge to see for himself.     The padawan nods. [Okay] he signs. [When...now] he asks. 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' Volken lays his hands on either side of the table Cain is sitting at. The table resists. The table, then, instantly crumples up. Barely a second after he touches it. It balls up, crushed, breaking, sundering in Volken's grip as he cmopresses it violently in a show of outrage and frustration infront of Caine. When he drops it tot he ground at the Baron's feet, his outrage is clear and only barely tempered by his incredulity at his words: "I've been dragged all over the galaxy, chasing after you and dealing with the Dark Saber nonsense and -now- you show up with an intent on some sort of -noble- scheme? You're -crazy-. You've had all this tiem to just come clean about it and now you want to just pitch some sort of effort to 'fix' Mandalore after all the mayhem and chaos -you- caused? I should -twist- your head off! Thaelin lost his -arm-. over this. The girl you supposedly love -doens't want you-. She tried to run -away- from Mandalore. You better give me something more then some sort of noble quest showing up out of blue!" Volken turns to Jorn and rumbles, "Don't -trust- him." 

:'''{{#var:418|Jorn (418)}} has posed:''' "You want to create a power vacuum and who would benefit the most? Why such extremes to do this changes?" He looks at the Baron. "Why go through all of us to get to this goal? You've betrayed everything you claim to have stood for," Jorn says curiously. Looking toward Baron with some curiousity in his voice. "I was with Volken long before this conversation, but I'm pretty sure I'm still camped there." 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' Navi winces at the sound of cracking, splintering wood from inside the bar. A LOT of cracking, splintering wood. "Mondrian? Any other time, I'd be happy to," she says softly, meaning it. "But going by the noises I'm hearing from inside, I don't know if anyone's getting drinks in there tonight. For the moment, at the very least. Would you settle for a raincheck?" She looks back over her shoulder, to see if anyone's coming to relieve her on ration distribution, even as she continues to do the job she'd been volunteered for... 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' The Baron doesn't flinch when Volken crushes the table, but he does put on his helmet. "Let me tell you a story," he says, suddenly. "When I was young, I learned about the Dark Saber, as all good little adike do. I'm sure you all did as well." "But you know how Mandalorians are. All the history books talk nearly exclusively about the Dark Saber, and very little about the duality of the man who wielded it. Tarre. Tarre Vizsla." "Both Mandalorian and Jedi. The last and arguably greatest Mand'alor who ever lived, the only Mandalorian Jedi. Of course, our teachers mostly only spoke about how he was a great Mandalorian, and said nearly nothing about his time as a Jedi. They spoke about the justice of the great war, and how after much bloodshed they were able to obtain the relic once more." "I became fascinated. Obsessed. I studied him, endlessly. And I observed our world. Our constant state of civil unrest and political upheaving. And the more I studied him, the more I began to realize that it is not a weapon who makes a man, it is the man who makes the weapon." "When I went into the vault I wasn't just looking to take the saber. I was looking for any possession of Tarre's. I found a few. And with it, trace remnants of his DNA. His possessions had been stored so precisely and perfectly that naturally, it was rather degraded, but not entirely." "And you may be surprised to know, that after running thousands of tests, I've found a path forward. It's possible. Tarre can be recreated. The process has already started, and so far, things look promising." "Now, it doesn't matter whether you believe in my vision, or not. What matters is that the Arkanians have copied all of my research to some external databank, and disappeared. I don't know what they're doing with it. But the worst can be assumed. They're only concerned with two things: Recognition and credits. Now, neither of us may be successful, but there is also the possibility that both of us end up successful. And you both know what that could mean, for Mandalore, perhaps for even the rest of the galaxy. The artificial creation of a Force sensitive being." "Perhaps you don't care about the rest of the galaxy. But there are people you care about, who, if this comes pass, will get caught in the crossfire. Thaelin. Sanza. His father, the Duke. Revara, even, probably. Their heads will be the first to get put on a platter if an uprising occurs." Mondrian (F) suddenly frowns. "I mean, you're not going in there without me," she says, suddenly reaching for her gun to make sure it's there. She then starts heading for the cantina. "We have to go find Rykard first," the doctor says sternly. "And they're not off their shift yet, so probably not this immediate second." But the bar owner had always been a busybody. "Something nefarious? Like what? What's going on?" she pesters the Twi'lek. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha sighs and when she explains things, she keeps her voice as low as possible to still be heard clearly. "In it's simplicity... cloning. And that Mando what keeps asking for me? He's got a lab somewhere. Soren, Thaarin and a couple others want me to try and get into the lab. So I've befriended the Mando...loosely...and he keeps making me do tasks to earn his favor to take me to his lab. So this needs to go smoothly... but I can't be in several places at once. And if I don't go help with the hauling their hovercrafts might break and I'll need to fix them. Soooo... can you help me with this one teeny tiny little thing? He orders the drinks, they finish the drinks, you just don't clean the glasses. I'll be back in...what...half an hour at most?" 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' The way Volken turns towards Jorn after he speaks - even with his helmet on - it's clear that he's surprised. His body language showing some shock at something he said. He then seems to relax just a little bit. He turns to look for Er'gi to see if the other Mandalorian mammoth is near. Ellari is apparently long gone. No longer a factor - at least at the moment. He looks back tot he baron, listening. His body language once more becoming stiff. Dangerous. "SO again wer're back to the fact that your'e insane and your insane behavior has possibly triggered something that'll become everyone elses problem. Sounds like -exactly- what I just described about you a second ago.....and what's -worse- you created a problem that will possibly drag The JEdi into the middle of it.... I'm so far not seeing why I still shouldnt' take your head off. Is that why you were cloned? then?" Volken valls silent and then his body leans backwards slightly. "...Let the Jedi decide." he finally says and then looks to Jorn, " We should let the Jedi decide. We'll let Cayde or Navi get into his head and see if he's telling the truth." He looks back to Caine, waiting for his reaction to that. 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' Spying someone in line with a friendly face, Navi hastily draws her aside for a moment. "Excuse me, but I'm needed inside," she whispers, showing her Deputy Marshal's ID. "I'll give you a double ration if you can take over distributing the rations for me." The young woman is surprised, but agrees readily, and Navi hastily departs with hers and Cayde's rations, hurrying inside after Mondrian. Inside, she doesn't have to look for more than a moment to spot the remains of a table, and then the only person in the bar capable of breaking a table with his bare hands. "I'm getting the feeling that I've walked into the middle of a tense conversation," she says softly to the Mandalorians gathered. "Hi, Volk." 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     [Okay] Cayde nods again, acquiescing to the doctor's stern words. He has determined that, if he at least follows everyone else's recommendations to the letter, if the results are bad, then it would at least be partially their responsibility.     He frowns though, as there is...a disturbance coming from the main dining area of the cantina. Tensions are rising, if not Volken's rage, then the distress of the cantina's patrons and workers is rising quickly. He glances in the direction of the nearest wall of the room that faces the front of the establishment, even if it's just a blank wall. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "Zetha," the bar owner says, "That is crazy talk. How'd you hear about any of this? You've been reading too many holobooks, I swear!" The bar owners shakes her head. "Well, whatever favor he wants from you, sure don't look like you managed to git 'er done. And that's probably for the best! The Mandalorians are trouble, and you should steer clear of them. Before I decide to tell Wiis about all of this." She folds her arms. "They didn't even order drinks... feh..." Then she starts walking away. "Fine," the baron admits reluctantly. "I admit it was a wild gamble. An insane one that probably wasn't going to work. And I didn't think it would work, to be honest. But I didn't want it to be for lack of trying, and now, I'm afraid I've become too successful and the Arkanians have decided to use my research for their own purposes. I can't imagine it will amount to anything good. My DNA is there, and so is Tarre's. It's a recipe for disaster." The baron, if he's intrigued or afraid of Volken's suggestion, doesn't voice it. "I suppose," he says dryly in response. Mondrian is right behind Navi, her hand on her holster. Vons suddenly materializes too, he'd been around, watching Jorn. For now, he just observes, brows furrowed, arms folded. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "As if Wiis doesn't already know...parts...of the story..." Zetha offers and then shakes her head. But then the bar owner is walking away and Zetha glances over to Baron and company to see that they still haven't ordered anything. And that the Baron is rambling his head off. Fine. She needs to go help with demolition stuff...like she agreed to do in the beginning. Though she does have to pause for a moment to send a message off to Soren. <<They haven't ordered drinks and I'm needed back with the demolition crew...I don't know what else to do at this point. ~Z.>> Then she continues on her way to leave the Cantina. Secretly. Ish. Perhaps out the back. 

:'''{{#var:418|Jorn (418)}} has posed:''' "To bounce off of what Volken said, all I'm seeing a is a problem from a situation that's self-inflicted. You want us to fix -your- problem after you caused us a ship-load of problems related to your own," Jorn is more tempted to just pull out a blaster and let loose some shots. "I was taught there are some things worth more than credit. Credit talks, but only so far. What -else- is in it for us? Because right now, I'm not seeing much of anything. And that's -if- we fix this little self inflicted wound of yours," he just stares at the Baron. Jorn is definitely not swayed by any of this. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     'Speak of the devil and he shall appear.' Or should it be 'speak of the Jedi'? Just as Volken mentions that the Jedi should judge and that Cayde should be let loose inside of Caine's mind, the padawan comes out of the back room to see what the commotion was all about. He frowns at the broken table, and glances over at Volken. 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' "Mebee I haven't made myself clear..." Volken's voice becomes more gutteral, less refined, more brutish as he leans in towards Caine. The compressed table is in his hand again - and a spasmign of his enormous arms takes place - visible, tattooed, slightly hairy, vained pillars of muscle bulkig up like bolders under his ruddy flesh. The sinewy movements causing the table to abruptly compressed even further - balling up to the size of a child's ball from what was previously a table large enogh to support a group of people. His helmeted visage loms in closer towards Caine, "If I find out that your'e lying.." he whispers, "...Or that youre trying to trick us... I'll show you -why- I had t'leave Mandalore and what the bodies I left behind looked like before I left..." So yes. Cayde probably senses -that-. 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' Navi opts to observe as well, putting out a hand to brush the back of the hand Mondrian has on her holster. Cautioning her not to act rashly. 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' "Hiya Navi." Volken didn't forget she was there. He's still staring right at Caine thoguh, looming over him. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' <I can't really help you at this point, Zetha. You're going to have to find a way to do what he wants, otherwise, you're unlikely to get into that lab. I wish I could help you more. But I'm currently not in a position to, and sometimes, too much handholding can be detrimental> the doctor replies to Zetha. She might be about to send another message to him, but then Crane appears, touching her shoulder gently. "Zetha my love what are you doing out here? It's cold out. Is everything alright?" "What do you want, Jorn? I've given you the answers you've wanted all this time, and I've admitted to everything you wanted me to admit. I said part of my motivation to plant the Dark Saber was out of spite, and that this situation with the Arkanians is my fault. How else should I act? Shall I grovel, and beg for your forgiveness? The entirety of Mandalore is at stake, and Revara, right after her mother is the freshly plowed dirt just below that stake. Any power shift will cause House Solstice to resist. And you know Revara. She'll lick her mother's palm like a strill pup, if that meant her approval." He grunts when Volken looms over him, suddenly deflating. "What -choice- do I have," he says, his tone suddenly weak. "My allies have abandoned me, and my brother is nowhere to be found." There's some trepidation about the Jedi in him, but when Cayde appears, he seems surprised by his youthful appearance. "Is this him?" he says, softly, "I'd heard the stories, but this is an adike..." Mondrian flicks Navi's hand away, but she doesn't unholster her weapon. She seems on guard, though. 

:'''{{#var:418|Jorn (418)}} has posed:''' "Volken. What'a good price on top of the credit?" Jorn asks Volken since they seem to be of the same mind of it all. He looks at the Baron. "We both know if you usurp Mother the wrong way you'd lose Revara," because he remembers when Revara tried to harm him for removing her brother's arm. Well, fore arm. Still. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha reads the message from Soren and just as she's about to go back and do something drastic...Crane appears. "I'm fine. Hold that thought. And wait here..." She doesn't let him respond to that before she's back inside the bar. Did the Mandalorians order drinks? No. Is she going to make drinks anyway? Yes. Something strong. Something she's heard people order before, and then she makes them a bit stronger. The drinks are all placed on a tray, the tray is carried over to the crushed table and she just places the tray with the drinks on the table next to them. "On the house. Drink up." And then she's gone again. Not giving anyone any time to reject, thank, or try to pay her. She tosses one look to the bar owner, gives a wink and then heads out the back again. Well. That is. Unless something or someone actually stops her. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde basically walks in with Volken threatening Caine very visibly, so he doesn't exactly need the Force to see that. He resists the urge to just enter the large Mandalorian's mind again and try to calm him down and instead just watches Caine warily when it appears they'd been talking about him. 'Stories'...great.     He tries to simply tap Volken on the back or arm wherever he can reach to try getting his attention. 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' "We know where Kass is and he's out of his mind and in desperate condition. Because of you. Yes he has to account for his own actions but you're not somehow innocent of playing a part in his descent into the way he is..." Volken looks towards Jorn and then shakes his head, tone honest as he says, "Not sure. Double?" After a moment he then looks to Navi and then Cayde wen the young Jedi taps him. He just looks back at the Baron, not commenting on his observation of Cayde and then he turns. "This is the guy we've been lookin' for. Not the clone. The real deal. He claims to know about a threat to both Mandalore and possibly the Jedi and others but he's also a liar...and a thief. We want to make sure he's telling the truth and then ...I wanat him locked up until we can decide on what to do about him and his tip. But keep him away from Kass. The Marauders were working for him to." Volken grumbles. He hates having to give 'orders'.... He then turns and calls out, "Er'gi?" looking for the other giant Mandalore ..and though he doesn't call his name out - he starts searching for someone else who has gone conspiciously absent given how in the middle of things he'd been. "Where's that Disciple at? Where's Crane?" 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' As her hand is brushed aside, Navi gives Mondrian a concerned glance. Then she looks to the Mandalorians. "Sounds like someone to be careful of, speaking as someone who arrived late to this conversation, and probably missed a lot of the really important bits," she says softly. "Obviously nobody's getting locked up in Kublop Springs right now. Mondrian, can you see that this guy's locked up somewhere secure in-system, maybe in Aklyrr Bend or on a neighboring planet, away from Kass, once we're done questioning him?" 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "You know I'd never. Her mother is worse than aruetti to me, but unlike her I'm more interested in pragmatic ways to solve things that don't involve excessive bloodshed and force," He grumbles at Jorn. When Volken says double, Caine sighs exasperatedly and bursts out, tone acidic, "Fine! Fine. One hundred thousand if that's what you want." "Zetha, wait!" Crane runs after her, heading back into the cantina, just as Volken starts to head out, looking for Er'gi and well, him. He almost runs into him, but manages to stop himself before bumping into the Mandalorian behemoth. However, the sudden stop causes him to stumble backwards, and he falls on his backside. He crawls backwards away from Volken, looking afraid and staring at the looming giant. "Sorry! I'm sorry," he says. Just then, Er'gi re materializes, looking like an oversized lost sheep. "Sorry, vod. I tried to tail Ellari, make sure she didn't get into trouble. But I lost her somewhere near the spaceport." "What hell is with you and bowing down to this guy? Like he's never done anything wrong in his entire life and you're just gonna believe everything he says at face value. I don't care if you trust him for no other reason than 'you've got a good feeling about him in the Force.' I don't trust him. I don't trust any of them. And you're not going to change that. I'm not gonna believe anything that 'Volken' guy says unless he can prove that this other guy is the real bad guy, because he's the one who just broke a table and wasn't helping out at all with the rescue and cleanup efforts. This is a light damned mess and I'm not locking anyone up without solid proof that they did anything, other than possibly break into a hospital. Whatever, fine. I'll take him to Aklyrr Bend, but I'm gonna be doing the interrogating. Not you, not Cayde, or Rykard. This is gonna be strictly Republic business from Coruscant this time, no Jedi or Force sensitives involved." Then she takes out her gun and points it at the Baron. "You heard what she said. You're going to Aklyrr Bend with me." The Baron gets up slowly, and starts heading out of the cantina, his gaze going briefly to Zetha. For some reason, Mondrian (F) seems weirdly agitated, moody, and angry without reason. Perhaps Navi will notice. 

:'''{{#var:418|Jorn (418)}} has posed:''' "I think one and a half times, but we should be allowed to control the power vacuum outcome. I mean, we are only in this mess because of Baron to begin with," Jorn speaks rather firmly on the matter. His gaze goes back to the others around here. "What say the rest of you?" he asks thinking a few people would probably agree with them. Just past run ins with the Baron. Although, Jron thinks some of the jedi may not have opinions on the matter. 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' "This is -not- strictly a republic matter, you idiot. W're trying to figure out if there's a wider threat at large to us -all-. I'm doine being diplomatic or lettin't his drag on and go back into circles. We take -action-...and if thats a problem - you konw where ot -find- me. Right -here-. Right -now-." It's time, it seems, for the Mandalorians to be feared as such as he wheels on Navi's companion and stares at her. Staring her down. "You will -not- interfere. You will simply keep him from running -off-." Crane gets the barest of glances now. At least he knows where he is. But he then looks back towards Navi, Cayde and Mondrian F. "What we need to find out is the truth behind what he's saying. If there's risk of a powreful sorcery-using clone...a Force using clone-fine-from Mandalore's past possibly about to be called into being. We need to stop it because that same figure was part of a galaxy spanning war a long time ago." He then spares Er'gi a quick head shake, "Just let 'er go." 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "Easy, Mondrian, Volk... there's been enough violence this last month. Can we just talk this out?" Navi asks gently, stepping partly between the feisty Mondrian (F) and the gigantic Volken. "Wait... did you say /clone/? We've been looking into a pair of dodgy Arkanian scientists who had been doing cloning experiments at the lab at Aklyrr Bend, the one near the Gorge and the Vergence. They've since disappeared, and we stumbled on a hideout and an escape ship that seemed to be theirs," she says. "Maybe we're looking for the same people." 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     [You are angry...calm yourself] Cayde signs to Volken once the big Mandalorian turns to him. He looks over toward Caine. But then Volken mentions someone from the past being cloned into existence, he frowns. [What is this] he asks. [I ask my master first]     And then Mondrian is making demands. Her emotions are clearly out of control. And he again resists the urge to reach into her mind and attempt to calm her down. Instead he just tries to use the Force fling the blaster out of her hand. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha notices the glance Caine gives her, but she actually ignores it. She's not getting in the way of all that hot mess. Instead, she shifts to go back to where Crane's fallen on his backside and then offers him a hand. "Come on. I should be getting back to help with demolition stuff ... but did you come here looking for me? Is everything okay?" What she really wants at this point is distance between her and the Mandalorians. And to get back to her proper work that she was asked to come out and help with. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "Oh since when did you start caring?!" she yells at Volken. "You run around doing other people's morally grey errands for several thousand credits and then suddenly you're concerned about galactic matters, huh? You think you save one guy and that makes you a Jedi? A hero? Please. You're only doing this because that other guy is offering you 100k credits. Yeah I heard you earlier. You said you don't even want to be here so why don't you lug your giant ass off this planet, mind your own damn business like you wanted to and forget all of this happened?!" She screams at Volken, pointing emphatically. She doesn't seem to even notice when Cayde flicks the gun out of her hand. There's tears in her eyes, and she wipes them away furiously. "No. I'm done. I don't want to talk, I don't want to have to deal with this anymore. I'm over it. When we go back to Coruscant for that Dug's trial, I'm -staying-. Clearly no one here cares about following the law. It's just every kriffing person for themselves." She turns to leave, apparently having completely forgotten about Navi's prior request. It would seem that she's not even really mad at Volken, he just happened to be her focal point. Her emotions are overflowing like a raging river, and hopefully with Volken's frustration combined, Cayde doesn't get overwhelmed. "...everything's fine," Crane says, "the bar owner was talking about you getting into trouble, I was worried. Volken's really upset." He takes her hand. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "Well. The bar owner might not be too far off..." Zetha says this, pulling her hand from Crane's own. "Just don't hate me..." Then she turns and shifts to grab Caine by the arm while Volken is screaming and Mondrian (F) is all emotionally compromised to try and yank him away and run off. Caine may have been a bit blindsided by the motion, but somehow Zetha manages to pull him along quick enough that they're soon taking off away from the scene. The Twi'lek has a few little hiding spots - likely from the misspent nature of her youth. They're a bit tucked away that even the monsoon didn't destroy them. "You really owe me now, you realize this, yes?" 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' When the Republic OFficer literally begins to break down and cry - it becomes clear to even Volken that this isn't just about him, yes. so he says nothing. There's no damage he can do verbally that she's not doing to herself at the moment. The others can deal with trying to stop her if they want. He looks towards Jorn, Navi,. r"Yeah...that's the ones. Experiments? Hmm.... So...maybe Caine -is- onto something.." He does nod in agreement with the final credit assessment though but in the end.. it's mostly just trying to make life hard for Caine. It's starting to become clear that it's something they can't just walk away from be credits involved or no.... And realizes that Caine has wandered off making this whole point moot. "Oh -come on-. I knew I should have throttled him when I saw him. We gotta find him!" He looks to Er'gi for help ahd then turns to start heading out of the bar to take a look around. 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "Zetha, what the /frell/...?!" Navi cries, as Zetha suddenly takes charge of Caine and runs right out of the cantina, with Caine in tow, if not streaming in the wind behind her. That girl is /fast/ whens he wants to be! "Swell..." she murmurs, picking Mondrian's pistol up from the floor and slipping it through the straps around her medical satchel. "I'd better find Mondrian before she does something rash. See if you can find Zetha and Caine. Please try not to hurt them. You need That Guy alive, and Zetha's impulsive. I have a feeling that there's more going on here than we know about. May the Force be with you." Then she jogs out of the cantina, looking for Mondrian's (F) trail. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Wait, had there been something about a clone? Perhaps all this was indeed connected. Cayde frowns as Zetha grabs Caine and hurries off. Although he doesn't rush off after them, he knows where they're going. He's been in Zetha's head before...for long periods. And she was thinking about where she was going to go. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Indeed, the baron trips and nearly faceplants when Zetha grabs him out of the blue and starts running, quite startled by her sudden maneuver. "Yes, alright, fine," he says, sounding tired and exasperated. "But where are we going?" he whispers urgently. However, he just follows her, letting her take the lead. Er'gi places a hand on Volken's shoulder. "Look, the boy is already going. Let's.. let's him handle this for a bit, please? I.. I think I need a drink." He goes to take a couple pints from the tray that Zetha had brought out, taking one for himself, and the other for Volken, holding it out to the other mammoth. "Hell of a day... dank farrik..." Crane approaches Volken meekly. "You know, she's wrong. I don't think it takes any more than just deciding that you want to be hero in order to become one," he says to Volken. Meanwhile, Navi won't have any trouble finding Mondrian's (F) trail. The other blonde is storming towards the tram station, barely holding her tears back. 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' "I'm not tryin' to be a hero Crane.." counters Volken, pausing in his search for Caine to answer him. "..And I've done some pretty....well...things some folk wouldn't like. That I dont' like. I'm just trying to get by.... Make it to the next day. That's the est I can do.." He gives Crane a long look and then turns nad starts moving as swiftly as he can into the streets after Caine. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde can feel Zetha's desperation as she hurries away. He remembers she wanted to know the truth of everything, and he'd promised her he would tell her but hasn't followed through. He starts off toward the junkyard at a casual pace--well, casual for him, anyway. Which still means 'leisurely' Force leaping across rubble. Maybe he'll even get to the destination before Caine and Zetha do... 
}}

The Duality of Tarre Vizsla

2026-03-21T01:47:07Z

Andromeda: Created page with "{{Log Header |Date of Scene=2026-03-01 |Cast of Characters=159, 444, 418, 296, 143, 321, 261 |pretty=yes }} {{Poses |Poses=:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' It's been a pretty grueling past few weeks. With the monsoon finally over, Kublop could finally get to rebuilding. The storm had been the worst one in at least a few decades - leaving the town with only a handful of houses still standing, and even fewer public establishments not utterly demolished by the..."

{{Log Header
|Date of Scene=2026-03-01
|Cast of Characters=159, 444, 418, 296, 143, 321, 261
|pretty=yes
}}
{{Poses
|Poses=:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' It's been a pretty grueling past few weeks. With the monsoon finally over, Kublop could finally get to rebuilding. The storm had been the worst one in at least a few decades - leaving the town with only a handful of houses still standing, and even fewer public establishments not utterly demolished by the raging elements. The three that are still standing with minor damage happen to be the local cantina, the hospital, and surprisingly, the junkyard (though one could argue, the junkyard was already full of broken parts anyway?) The property inspector's family had taken his death hard, and the local constabulary is doing its due diligence to try understand what all had happened. So far, it had been deduced that there had been some kind of firefight which had caused the cave in that had affected Volken, Crane, and the now dead inspector. The perpetrators? Still a mystery, although Mondrian (M) has been missing ever since the storm had blown over, and Mondrian (F) has been very sullen and withdrawn, all of a sudden. Kass, after having been recovered, had been seen by the medics and deemed a danger to himself and others, as well as suffering from some mild alcohol poisoning. He'd been admitted to a rehab center and despite his numerous pleas to be let out, had been spent the past few weeks there, trying to recuperate. Now, the local cantina had turned into a food bank and community center of sorts, since most other public establishments (the general store included) had been destroyed by the monsoon. Anyone who wanted a drink, food, grocery, or even temporary shelter could be found there. And that might be where both the Mandalorians, Jedi, and their allies find themselves. It's crowded, and there's a line out the door, but at least it isn't raining anymore. This crowd probably isn't where anyone would want to find themselves, but for the Mandalorians, it could bode well. If the clone or Baron hadn't made it back to their Gorge before the monsoon had hit, they'd be here. Where else could they be? There were really only two places in town to get rations these past few weeks, and the hospital restock had ran out this morning and wouldn't be getting anymore until tomorrow night. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha is doing as she has done for several monsoons before. She's helping with clean up, making sure hovercarts and other equipment stay maintained while the work happens. It isn't glorious, in fact, it's dirty and rotten - in more ways than one. She had likely gone to at least check in with Wiis, but helping the community get cleaned up and ready for repair work is helping her sort thoughts and stay out of trouble. For the most part. 

:'''{{#var:418|Jorn (418)}} has posed:''' Jorn is out there with crews. Doing his best to keep a low profile, which may be the opposite of his actions. Sometimes to blend in, you make yourself part of the attention. There are times wallflowers stand out. He banks on that being true. And so, Jorn's out with scouting parties to gain resources. In reality, he's keeping an eye out. Using the guise of helping, which does create a positive side effect, but tries to keep his head peeled for anything interesting, targets, etc. Also, to figure out how bad the mansoon truly hit the planet. Because that will effect their later plans. 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     Ellari is here, although she probably should be at the hospital, given the injuries she'd sustained against a 'mysterious attacker'. And yeah, -she- knows this was the person responsible for the explosion. And that he'd been a raving madman about some 'sister' or other. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde is definitely not at the cantina. There are far too many people there, all concentrated in one spot, and all stressed and anxious. A recipe for disaster, truly. So instead, he is out with Jorn's scouting party scavenging through remains and potentially looking for anyone who might be alive but trapped or something. 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' Ellari is alive. That's good. Volkenis refusing to speak to her. That's probably bad. In fact he's pretty much not been speaking to anyone and has been more or less isolating himself since recovering his armor from 'Crane', having his own injuries attended to post Navi's own efforts, and basically has ignored people attempting to reach out ot him most of the time. Considering that hi strength could be quite useful in rebuilding things .. that's probably not very helpful, but perhaps he's fallen into some sort of depression .. meaning that he might not be much good after all. EIther way he rarely appears in public. Until now, when he emerges from where he'd been isolating himself and starts to approach the Cantina. 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' Navi had never thought she'd be grateful to Cayde for doing something insane. But thanks to his clearing the giant tree bole from the tressel, the tram has continued to run, and access to Aklyrr Bend has remained open. Which is a good thing, considering how much of Kublop Springs has been flattened by the monster monsoon. Some of the settlers, lacking homes, have been temporarily housed in Aklyrr Bend, and, thanks to having access to the comms array in the newer colony, Republic disaster relief has been quick in coming. Most of the town is still living in tents, though, which likely isn't helping anyone's nerves. It's rather discomfiting to wake up with a local bird perched on your chest, too. Navi has split her time between the two settlements, assisting with search and rescue in Kublop and helping Aklyrr stay peaceful, especially with the temporary residents. She had set up a tent in Kublop that she was sharing (somewhat reluctantly) with Cayde, since the long tram ride made daily commutes exhausting at best. Presently she's in line outside the tavern to receive rations for herself and Cayde. Seeing Volken approaching, she waves to him. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Zetha will be busy helping with the community rebuilding effort, probably barely thinking about much else other than the work in front of her when she'll feel someone tug on her wrist gently. If she turns around, she'll find herself face to face with a cloaked figure. She won't be able to see his face, as its evening, and the area they're in doesn't have very good lighting. Jorn will likely be equally busy when he too, gets approached. Not by a cloaked stranger, but by the Republic private eye, Arsok Vons. He'll tap the green armored Mandalorian on the shoulder to get his attention. He'll notice Cayde here too, but he doesn't say anything to the young padawan - he'll only give him a telltale arched brow, one that the padawan had learned meant 'stay out of my investigation.' As Volken approaches the cantina, he'll be able to see that the young Disciple he'd rescued from the tunnels during the monsoon is out front, handing out hygiene kits and ration packs. When he sees Volken approaching, his eyes light up and he starts making his way over to the mammoth Mandalorian. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Ellari will find herself approached by Er'gi, suddenly. He doesn't seem too happy. "And where've you been all this time? Care to explain why you left Volken in the sewers, to nearly drown?" 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' The tugged wrist is just barely free from the tossing of debris onto a hovercart when it happens. She turns into the tugging, seeing the cloaked figure with a hidden face, but something in her gut tells her she knows who this is. Still, in case her gut is wrong, she plays it cool. "Yes? Can I help you with something? If you're looking for where the rations and such are being given out that would be at the cantina near the middle of town.." Offering at least that much. 

:'''{{#var:418|Jorn (418)}} has posed:''' Jorn focuses helping others, but that republic office gets a look. "Officer," he says respectfully and keeps it to that. Just simple, brief and to the point. He figures questions are incoming. 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     "Do I have to follow him to the end of the line?" Ellari asks grumbles. "There are some members of my own House I wouldn't do that for, and you expect me to do so for him? He was making a rash decision, but I am not strong enough to force him to protect himself." Clearly, since he's volumes larger than her. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde actually avoids looking at Vons, to be honest. It's become abundantly clear to him that the Zeltron doesn't like him. 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' Given that he's the second biggest person there, its impossible for Volken to miss Er'gi's giant frame go up towards Ellari and equally impossible to miss his body language. He can't hear them but it's clear to him that Er'gi is being confrontational. Volken's helmet is on and so his own expression cannot be read but his body language is neutral to that and he turns away to find a seat on a large crate to rest himself once again. Navi is seen by now so he lifts a gigantic arm upwards and offers her a wave only to pause and lower it as he sees Crane beginning to approach him. "...So you're up and about... Good." he rumbles. "Glad to see you. As soon as the spaceport is cleared and repaired I'll be leaving to head back for work out in the Outer Rim. You're welcome to join if you're looking for a way back to Jedha. There's little for me to worry about doing here anymore." 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' Navi can't surrender her place in line without adding at least an hour to her waiting time, but she does watch Volken and "Crane" as they speak. She smiles and waves back as the massive Mandalorian waves in response to her earlier wave, glad to see him for the first time since the monsoon had finally ebbed. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' The cloaked figure starts to back away into a narrow, dark alley nearby. He beckons for her to follow. Quietly he says to her, "Yes, actually. You owe me, remember?" Of course, Zetha will recognize the voice. Maybe she'll be filled with dread. "Alright, I'll skip the pleasantries," he says, "you should know what I'm about to ask next," he says, "The female Mandalorian you've been seen with - where is she?" Er'gi grumbles back at her. "So much for loyalty! What are you even doing here, if you only ever planned to be present when it was convenient for you? Unless you've got your own machinations...?" Crane waves and smiles to Navi as well, but follows Volken into the cantina like an akk puppy. "And yourself?" Crane says, suddenly looking the hulking Mandalorian over in a concerned fashion. "You're feeling, better, right?" When he says that he'll be leaving soon, his expression suddenly becomes somewhat disappointed. "Oh," he says, "well, The other Disciples of the Whill have me stationed at the outpost here ... it's destroyed now, so I'm not sure if they'll want me to come back or not. But I'd probably stay if they let me." A pause. "You.. want to leave? What were you here for in the first place?" Moments after Volken and Crane have gone inside, the young Sephi girl will be approached by the cantina owner. "Co-Deputy! I'm so relieved! You're doing alright, I hope?" She holds out a bottle of water and a ration pack, somewhat to the dismay of others behind Navi. "I kinda need a favor. Figured I'd give the handout before I asked..." 

:'''{{#var:418|Jorn (418)}} has posed:''' "That doesn't narrow things down. You'll have to be more specific. I have a few associates that are female," Jorn says not realizing how smooth, unsmooth, and every other way he doesn't sound. In his mind this is "legally stall mode." "Are you referring to my fiance? She's off world. Dealing with the in-law. Or did you mean my in-law?" Again, these are not lies. "Both are blaster pistols without the safeties. You'll need to describe them in detail, so I know -which- female Mandalorian you mean," he continues just being open and honest. 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' Navi steps out of line, accepting the ration pack and the water bottle. "Thank you, and I am well enough. Perhaps I can assist you with handing out the evening's rations while you explain the issue? It's best we not keep these good people waiting any longer than necessary," she advises gently. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha follows, but as soon as his voice grates against her ears, her eyes narrow. "In case you haven't noticed, we're in the middle of a crisis. And last I recall...you managed to escape the hospital without being caught." She shakes her head a little. "I don't have what you're likely wanting from me. It's been a bit hectic here lately. And I don't work on your schedule when my town's in ruin." 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' Volken doesn't answer immediately, just sitting there on a crate before finally rumbling, "Mandalorian business. Nothing that'd make sense or is important enough for me to run through all the steps. Needless to say I was here with the others related to some politics back on my homeworld and then we got swept up in all the other stuff happening. Plus there's a fugitive here that we were interested in aprehending but it doesn't matter now. I'm past the point of caring since being reminded of how my people were raised. If anything it's let me know I need to maybe get back to basics." Volken lifts a hand and makes an absent gesture, "Stay here and do what you need o do. I'm just lettin' you konw. Not like I have any ship booked yet. Itll be a minute given the condition of the place. I already got an idea of where to go for work though so it'll be fine." 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     "-Convenient-?" Ellari scoffs, glaring at Er'gi. He dares insinuate this was about 'convenience'? "I came out here to help Jorn escape from injustice on Mandalore. I went to Jedha, -and then- I came here, to this backwater planet only to be caught in storm and had multiple parties attempt to take my life for no discernible reason. And you call that 'convenience'? I should -gut- you." 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde watches Jorn and Vons' conversation for a moment, but soon loses interest and goes back to helping search through the rubble of the damaged convent. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "Look, don't be -difficult-," Vons says, "I know, I know. You Mandalorians have a built a reputation on being difficult, but I'm just saying. You don't have be like the other guys," he says. "I'm not trying to get anyone arrested." A pause, "Alright, fine, I am, but I'm not trying to get -her- arrested specifically. Unless there's reason to arrest her. Which there might but, but my gut says 'probably not' this time. And even if there was, we probably still wouldn't because the Republic would like to avoid starting the Mandalorian Galactic Wars all over again. I just need to ask her a few questions. That's all." The Mandalorian removes his hood, and smiles at her, his sapphire blue eyes glittering in the dim light. "My dear, I'm not angry at you. I wasn't asking for you deliver the items right now. I am, however, offering to assist you in getting them, right now. You won't have to do much, honestly. Just offer your help to the bartender serving drinks at cantina, and make sure a certain glass, or two, doesn't get taken to the washer. I'll take care of the rest. And then, tomorrow, I'll take you to my lab. I promise. What do you think?" "It's okay," Crane reassures Volken softly. "you're upset, aren't you? You know, just because you're not like the rest of the Mandalorians doesn't disqualify you from being one." The young Disciple actually pats Volken's hand gently, then shrugs. "Why don't you stay here for work? The town could use someone like you. I certainly did. I would have died if it hadn't been for you. And while I can't pay you, maybe someone else could, and would." Volken might suddenly remember that Xera is here. And she had, actually, tasked him with something. In regards to Cayde. Well, that's another thing, isn't it? "Oh, yah," the cantina owner says, continuing to hand out some of the rations in the box she's carrying while also giving some to Navi to hand out. "I need some help with the cellar out back. The door's covered with a bunch of debris from the storm! And lots o'folk are coming around now not just for rations but for their valuables. It's been tradition whenever it storms like this that a lot of folk here in Kublop ask me to put up their valuables in the wine casks so they don't get damaged by the flooding. The cellar itself likely flooded, but the empty wine casks are sturdy and can seal up real good so likely no damage done to the valuables. So do ya think you can get to them and open 'em up? Would be nice to make sure those heirlooms get back into the right hands!" There's not much for Cayde to find, just more and more debris. His attention will be diverted anyway, as Luli and doctor suddenly approach. The young Mikkian girl seems disturbed, and Cayde probably won't even need the Force to notice. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "Oh did you?" Er'gi says heatedly, "Or is that just what you've been telling everyone, to save face?" "Gut me? Oh please. You can try." He challenges. 

:'''{{#var:418|Jorn (418)}} has posed:''' "You're still not specifying which -her-." Jorn points out as the man is being presumptive. He does know a few female mandalorians. "You did not give me a description or anything to work with." 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha's brows furrow a bit and she looks back to the crowd just across the way before looking back to him. She figures she's all in now either way and even if he gets his hands on some DNA - well - she doesn't have to ensure that it's any particular person's glass right? Something else is on her mind though and she faces him, arms crossing over her chest. "Answer me this first. Are you some high ranking official in the Mandalorian's eyes? A baron, I think, is what I've heard." 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' Oh he hadn't forgotten about Xera. IN fact that was -exactly- who he was intending on contacting. But he also didn't want to be here. She had a large family. A fortune. Plenty of trouble to get up to. That thing about Cayde though... she probably -would- want him to do that first. But... "I don't want -be- here anymore for one." he says, "I might be inclined to..." One thing about big Mandalorians.. they can be loud. Er'gi is loud. Volken narrows his eyes behind his helmet and then finally sighs and stands, turning to start for the exit of the Cantina and the outside where the other Mandalorians are. "Just a sec." he says towards "Crane". 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "If it's a lot of debris, I'm not the best suited to moving it. But I know someone who is, and possibly another person who might be willing to help," Navi replies to the barkeep, as she begins to hand out rations and water bottles. "I'll need to pick up a second set of rations for a co-habitant of mine who has been assisting with the search and rescue efforts, but that can wait until we've got all this stuff passed out." 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde was pulling some debris out of a half-shattered convent window, the pieces filtering out of it in almost a single-file line and floating up in front of him. Most of it is just broken shards of building materials, but there seems to be a necklace among them that still has some shine to it. Probably isn't that valuable, but maybe. Couldn't hurt to check.     He looks over to Luli, noting the disturbed expression on her face. [How can I help] he signs to them. 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     Ellari could have had many words for Er'gi. Like why doesn't he ask Volken? Why would she spin a lie that could be countered by people who are physically here? She isn't stupid. But she has just about had it, after everything.     So without another word, she lunges at the larger Mandalorian and takes a swing at the side of his head! 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "You -know-!" the red skinned private investigator grumbles at Jorn. "She's the only female Mandalorian on Tenoo. At least the only one everyone is aware of. Ellari, Ellarin Zin. Where the hell is she? I thought you were supposed to be some kind of ally to the kid, so why aren't you trying to be more helpful?!" "And if I said yes," the baron says, "what would that mean to you? You want to see the lab? You have to help me in this. Discreetly. See you at the cantina." And he turns to leave, but he leaves his hood off. Which doesn't make sense, he'd just asked her to help him discreetly. He makes a show of leaving the alley, and crossing over to wherever Jorn and the group he'd been helping out is. He'll make sure that Jorn sees him. He'll even pause, and stop to make eye contact with the green armored Mandalorian, while he's splitting hairs about 'which female Mandalorian' with the private investigator. Then he'll turn on his heel, swish his cape, and disappear into the thronging crowd of sweaty volunteers, heading in the general direction of the cantina. "Okay," the young Disciple says. "well, I want you to be here. I--" But then the mammoth Mandalorian hears a commotion outside, and gets up to leave. "Oh, perfecto!" the bartender says, "thank ye for your help. It's really appreciated," she says to Navi. "And don't worry about the rations. Take whatever you need." "There's something we need to discuss," the doctor says, "concerning the Arkanians. But it's getting cold out, and you should take a break. Let's head to the cantina. We can talk there, over hot drinks." Ellari manages to land a fist on the left side of Er'gi's head, and he growls, "Or'dinii. I'll crush you like the weakling you are, Vizsla vixen...!" He reaches over to try to grab Ellari by the neck, and that's how Volken will find them. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     But Cayde hesitates when Soren suggests going to the cantina. He glances over in the direction of the long line out the door and even more people milling about outside, and shakes his head. [Not there] he insists. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha watches as he leaves the alley and then looks down at the ground for a lingering moment. Then, in a moment of mental frustration, she pulls out her comm and types out a message to Soren. <<You know what really sucks about being right but no one will listen to you? Is that you're still right, and everything is about to turn to shit. He's here. The Baron. Jasper. Whatever the kriff you all want to kriffing call him is HERE. And he wants me to help at the cantina and make sure a few specific glasses don't necessarily go to the washer. Hope you read all this because if shit goes south I might just take all of you with me. ~Z.>> That done she huffs a breath and makes her way towards the cantina. Slowly, however. Because she's going to see who all she can clock that's around just in case things actually /do/ go south. 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' Another day and another time, if Volken had of truly been entertaining any sort of attraction to Ellari - he might have reacted very, very, badly. Right now he might very well be a Sith that's actually piloting Er'gi pschically for how mad he's been. Buuuut...he can't just let them kill each other, no matter how ticked off he is. So.. "HEY! Stop! Er'gi, stop!" Volken rushes in and reaches forward to try and grab and push Er'gi back from Ellari, using his other arm to shove her as well. It's ironic that this is the first time the two mammoths have probably pitted against each other. Given how competitive Mando's can be youd' tink they've at least tried an arm wrestling match or some other contest to pass the time but soo much has been going on, so now they shall see if one can actually restrain the other. "C'mon vod.!" 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     When Er'gi grabs Ellari's neck, she lashes out with a knee to the groin. And then Volken shows up in a rather timely fashion, shoving her away from the other bulky Mandalorian.     "Volken! Why don't you tell this hu'tuun just how long I've been on this journey with you?" 

:'''{{#var:418|Jorn (418)}} has posed:''' There's a pause, "I don't know where she is at this second, but since you said nothing is official. Nor are you detaining her, give me your data chain. The thing about her, she's private. You want answers, let her come to you. Let her come into territory she thinks is neutral," Jorn says honestly to the investigator. Is the anno yance noted? Yes. Jorn is just used to having that effect on people. Jorn holds his hand out for contact information. "Since, we're being nice here," the inspect did talk about being nice with each other. 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "Well, don't thank me yet. Wait until after the job's done," Navi advises gently, continuing to hand out rations. "With all this rebuilding, it may take a few days to get to it, but we'll do it. And thank you very kindly for your generosity." She touches her comm earbud. << Cayde, are you there? The lady who runs the cantina that provides our rations when we're in town needs a favor that is right up your alley, >> she says softly into its mic. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "Cayde," Soren says gently but firmly, "you can't just keep hoping a problem will go away by avoiding it. Remember, it's about exposure and control. If you want Rykard present, he's around, you can just ask him to accompany us. Besides, I'm not having us talk out here in the the freezing cold and we're definitely not walking to the hospital right now either. It's not better there, anyway." He pauses with a sigh. "It'll be fine," He tells Cayde, "I'll get us a room. Now let's go." Then he looks down at his comm and sees the message from Zetha. Another sigh. "Looks like we're both needed at the cantina anyway," he tells Cayde, "Zetha might have run into some trouble." <Stay calm and keep an eye on him, alright? We're heading to the cantina now> the doctor reassures Zetha. Zetha will see the long line of people wrapping around the block near the cantina. She'll see a few familiar faces on her way there- Thaarin, Master Rykard, the mayor and his son. She won't see the doctor - yet anyway, they must have gone on ahead and reached it before she did. Er'gi resists for a split second, but then relents. He seems rather upset, though, still. "What? You're going to -defend- her? After she abandoned you and the civilians?? Have some honor, vod!" He sighs, exasperated. "What are we even doing here? Where's Jorn, even?" "Oh, okay, well that's so helpful," the Zeltron remarks derisively. Regardless, he hands him a card with his data chain on it. But then, the baron is passing by. "Hey, isn't that..." he squints. "Isn't that the clone that went missing like a month or so ago?" he says, pointing at baron's retreating figure. Of all the people to show up! Very possibly, the man Jorn has been trying to confront! There he is, heading for the cantina. "Of course!" The barkeep tells Navi. "If you need anything, or see anythin' funny, I'll be inside." 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' "Long enough to leave me behind and save your own -skin-?" explodes Volken at Ellari as she makes her demands and it uncaps his fury finally. "You -left- me, Zin. You knew I couldn't make that climb with that mud coming in while also trying to carry two wounded and guide the Inspector. If you'd stayed with us and trusted t'group effort then the Inspector wouldn't be -dead-. Instead you threw the wounded at me and took off on yoru own and all you got to show for it was getting -shot up-." Volken makes a dismissive gesture at her and turns away. "And dont' think I didn't consider your little skirmish might not have had anything to do with the cave in that led to the mans death! If you'd just trusted us then we'd all maybe made out of there without a scratch. But you dont' even have the decency or self awareness enough to even consider if you'd made a msitake--and you're bothered about if Er'gi thinks you've been on this planet long enough! Bic ni skana'din!" ER'gi's complaints were probably lost in the explosive boom that is Volken's deep voice. He just stares at Ellari, not answering anyone else. They probably heard all of that in the Cantina as well. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Oh she's calm alright. And Zetha will stay calm until there's no time for calm any longer. The fact that Jasper has walked towards the cantina has her a little uneasy because as much as she'll be trying to keep an eye on him he'll likely be waiting for her to pass glasses and stuff to him. She does take note of those she sees as she passes but since she's trying to get into the cantina to help and not to jump the line she hopes no one barks at her for trying to cut or anything. Though she will keep an eye out for Soren once inside the cantina. Maybe everyone will be distracted by the Big Scary Mandalorian shouting words at someone. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde hesitates again, watching the doctor for a moment, but finally starts to follow him. He heard Navi's message and sighs. Well, he supposes he'll have to do this. So he starts doing his best to mentally prepare for the inevitable cacophony inside the cantina. Internal -and- external... 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' Navi heard Volken quite clearly, as she's not that far away. But she can't leave her post near the door, passing out ration packs and water bottles, since the owner has stepped away. So she keeps working and hopes this doesn't turn into a war or something... 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     "Well -excuse me- if I didn't want to follow -you- on a suicide mission!" Ellari explodes back at Volken. "And how dare you blame the inspector's death on me, when it's clear this was your -own- failure! I -tried- to dissuade you, but you wouldn't listen! We are not the Republic police, or the Jedi, or anyone with any such obligations to 'save everyone or die trying' especially in a -Republic- colony! If you had a death wish, there was nothing I could do to sway you from it, as you are many times my size, aren't you? I was -attacked-, not the other way around, so no, the explosion was -not- my fault or my doing!"     She looks about ready to start shooting or swinging again, but instead she just turns on her heel. "I'm -leaving- this accursed backwater planet, since none of you seem to have any gratitude for anything I've done." With that she begins to storm out of the cantina. 

:'''{{#var:418|Jorn (418)}} has posed:''' Jorn takes the contact info. However,a s he is about to shoot Ellari a message, the words leave the investigator. That causes Jorn to run toward that direction. Oh, he needs to track this one down. Figure out what's going to happen. Jorn's getting a few things ready for apprehension if need be. "I don't think he was allowed to leave with hopsital consent," he will add knowing insticnts are battling. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Er'gi stays silent, brooding, as Volken explodes at Ellari. The two of them exchanged heated words, and then Ellari is storming out of the cantina angrily. The young Disciple 'Crane' approaches Volken again, his expression sad. "I-I'm sorry. This is my fault, isn't it? Maybe she's right. You.. you shouldn't have given me your armor so that I could live." He averts his gaze, and Er'gi stares at Volken in disbelief. "You gave him your beskar'gam...vod..." He trails off and then looks away. The Zeltron man opens his mouth to reply to Jorn, but Jorn has already run off, straight for the cantina. He follows, brows furrowed as he hurries after him. Jorn will see him approach the cantina, stopping just a few hundred meters shy of it to pull out his commlink. He's messaging Zetha. <You need to get behind the bar. As luck would have it, they're all here. Now, listen carefully. I'm going to order them a round of drinks, it'll be on me. But when you bring it out, you'll need to make sure they leave some liquid in their cups. Make it bitter, make it too strong, whatever you like. Then, when you clear away the cups, naturally, don't take them to the washer. Put them in something sealed, and bring them with you tomorrow when we go to the lab. Got it?> Once that's done, he puts away his commlink, and without any hesitation, approaches Ellari, Volken, and Er'gi in the front of the cantina. In fact, Ellari might almost run into him. He flashes a charming smile. "Hello there~" he says, "miss me?" He also turns around, to give Jorn a faint smile and a pointed look. Navi, of course, will get to witness this spectacle, since she's out front handing out rations. The doctor, Cayde, and Luli will arrive soon after, but the doctor will instruct them to not get distracted. "We'll worry about that later," he tells Cayde, "let's focus on finding a room for now so we can talk about what happened at the hospital." 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha has likely been doing work in the cantina when she needs breaks from tearing stuff down. Just being where she's needed when she's needed while things get all settled. So it won't be a surprise that she's behind the bar - but only just. As that message comes through her commlink, she'll read it, and then send back a quick <<Got it. Whatever you say.>> Then she's flipping over to her messages with Soren, but first she glances up in time to watch as 'Jasper' actually walks up to the other Mandalorians. Then she sends to the doctor, <<He's brazenly walking up to the Mandalorians. Told me what I need to do. I need something I can set glasses into that's sealed...and likely someone'e help after.>> Now she's worried - all of this is getting much too real. 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' "I ddidn't -give- him my beskar, I put my helmet and torso armor on him so he woudln't be crushed when I used my body to blast through several yards of rock that was collapsing on us while the place caved in because of her loosin' a fight over our heads." sneers Volken. He's not having any of this 'Way of Mandalore' nonsenese right now. "If that makes me a heretic to you Er'gi then...." Volken stops himself, suddenly feeling a pang there. He doesn't -want- Er'gi to be upset. He actually -doesn't- want Ellari to be upset either but he also believes she's wholly in the wrong here. "....I don't -know- why we're still here anymore. " he finally admits, "We came here to help Jorn, assuming he'd get some training with the Dark Saber and that's barely happened. It's just been one thing after another. I suppose we wanted to get to the bottom of the whole clone thing but that's just been a nonstop circle. The officers and republic here don't even trust each other and the Jedi are so stuck in their rules and regulations that it gets in the way of any progress." He finally looks at Er'gi firmly, "I'm leaving as soon as I can find passage and you're welcome to come. I've got a gorgeous woman with tons of credits to her name willing to pay me regularly and pay me well but I've ignored that -beacuse- I wanted to help these di'kut's. No more. I'm leaving them to their fates." He puts his helmet back on now and then addresses Crane, "It's not yer fault Kass was insane and you got hurt. It's done. I'm over it." 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde purses his lips and clenches his jaw as he enters the crowded cantina, just barely managing to keep himself anchored in the moment. He just keeps his gaze focused on Soren's back, following him through the crowds... 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' Navi winces, watching the fireworks between Volken and the female Mandalorian. "That didn't sound good," she murmurs, passing over two more ration packs and two more bottles of water, hoping the barkeep will be back soon. She doesn't mind handing out rations to hungry people, but it's a lot slower with only one person passing things out, and she has a feeling she may need to intervene sometime soon. 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     It was a good thing Ellari didn't hear Crane saying that Volken had given his beskar to him earlier, as she is already out of earshot and outside the cantina. But then, Caine just...waltzes up to her with that smug smirk of his. She doesn't care what he wants. For all she knows, he was the one who attacked her with such relentless aggression during the storm. But whether it was him or not, her only answer to that is a blaster bolt aimed at his head. 

:'''{{#var:418|Jorn (418)}} has posed:''' Jorn hangs backa nd tries to see what's beign said int he conversation. Everything about the contact. Trying to get intel on everything. His attention focused on more of the waht, why and similar questions. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' The barkeep and the other employees, of course, don't blink an eye when Zetha comes into the kitchen. Instead, they just smile and wave, and go back to work (of which there is a plenty of right now), totally unsuspecting. Maybe Zetha will feel bad. Or maybe she'll refuse to think about what any of anything means right now, and just focus on the task at hand. The doctor doesn't reply, but she'll espy him ushering Luli and a rather disgruntled looking Cayde into the cantina, towards the back where the private meeting rooms are. He'll spare her a glance, but no more. Er'gi doesn't say anything, he doesn't seem to know what to say. All he does is point at the Baron, who has suddenly materialized in front of the cantina. "Well, don't leave just yet," the Baron says to Volken, "I was going to tell you the truth about the clone. About why I'm here. You've been chasing me for months, well, here I am. Everything you've ever wanted since coming here." And then Ellari shoots him. The blast grazes his cheek, burning a perfectly blackened mark onto his well sculpted cheekbones. He winces, and seems to be in a lot of pain, but is it an act? "I don't want to fight you," he says dramatically, as by now, the entirety of Kublop is watching, enraptured. Nothing interesting had ever really started happening until the Mandos had shown up, and townsfolk couldn't help but drink it up. "I come in peace." He suddenly goes over to Jorn and rests a hand on his shoulder. He squeezes it, perhaps a little too hard. "I know you've toiled, sweated tears and blood to find me. To get an explanation. And I'm going to give you one. I'm going to tell you everything, why I'm here, why I did what I did. It's the least that you deserve." A pause. "Well, you all look like you could use a drink. I'll open a tab, order whatever you like. And then we can talk." Meanwhile, as Navi is continuing to hand out rations and hoping things don't go horribly sideways, she'll spot Mondrian (F) in the line. She looks terrible. Her skin is pale, her lips look blue, and there's dark circles under eyes. 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "Mondrian? Force help you, you look like /frell/," Navi says softly. "What's happened? Are you all right?" 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' The timing couldn't have been more perfect as he was -just- about to put a comm call out to Xera after seperating from the shell-shocked Er'gi. Making peace with potentially losing one of the last connections to Mandalore there. "Fine.." he rumbles, "..Guess I'm just a hereti--" He stops his words when he hears Caine, sees the blaster shot go off and he turns about to stare in that direction. Fortunately his helmet is on now, staying nice and secure. He says nothing. He doesn't even move. He may -actually- be out of any Dank farrik's to give. But - he doesn't leave. He just glances at Er'gi and then back towards The Baron and also sees Jorn at that point. Finally he rumbles. "Just get to the point. No theatrics. Or I"m out and they can deal with ripping your head off by themselves." 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     Ellari doesn't attack again, but she just glares daggers at Caine. "-Now- you come clean? Ha! Do you take us as utreekov, hu'tuun? This is all part of some sort of manipulative scehem of yours, and I'm -not- falling for it this time!"     She then storms past him, still intent on leaving. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha sort of keeps an eye on where the Mandalorians are, but she also helps out the kitchen/bar as well. If they order, they order. But the way things are just -looking- at the moment, no one is happy to see the Baron and no one is ordering a drink anytime soon. Maybe this idea will fall out from under 'Jaspers' plan. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "I'm fine," Mondrian (F) shoots back at Navi, even though it's really clear that she's not. "I'm fine." She repeats. But she won't look Navi in the eye, and the young Sephi girl will have already have heard the reports about her brother being missing. "I've been conducting research," The Baron says, reaching into his pocket and pulling out a small medical adhesive and covering the wound on his cheek with it. "That's all I've ever wanted to do, ever since I was young," he continues. "That's why I'm here. Come, let's all get drinks, and I'll tell you more," he glances at Ellari, "if you don't want to, that's your loss." He shrugs, and starts heading inside. Zetha will be able to see him heading for the bar now. Whether the others are in tow... well only time will tell. Meanwhile, The doctor has found a room for himself, Luli, and Cayde. "I think the morticians are up to something," Luli suddenly explains, "something illegal. I don't know what. They broke protocol, and I thought that was very unusual. Maybe credits were involved." 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde follows Luli and Soren into a back room, listening to the Mikkian begin to explain what's on her mind.     [Which protocol] he asks. [Which morticians...why credits] 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' Navi places Mondrian's (F) ration pack and water bottle into her hands, then lays her hands against the taller woman's hands, drawing upon the Force to aid her body in healing itself. "You don't /look/ fine. You look like the /opposite/ of fine. Is this about your brother being missing?" she asks. 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' "NO" Volken's deep vioce explodes with that fury again. He raises an enormous arm and fires off a single shot towards the ground infront ot the Baron, be it into the outside of the Cantina or no. The repulsor gauntlet explodes dust and debris skywards as the huge Mandalorian seems steps forward, overshdaowing even Er'gi now as if all restraints he's had are being broken. "We are NOT getting rinks. TALK. NOW." He said he's ahd enough and he has had enough. There's been too much circlular logic, running back and forth and people thinking that they can control the flow of this. If the Baron would reveal what this is all about, as far as Vooken is concerned he can do it now, or be crushed - and then he's leaving. "SPEAK." 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "Well, I mean for sanitation reasons and to make sure no outside environmental factors affect the autopsy while it's in progress, the morticians are supposed to seal off the mortuary anytime they're performing any kind of work on a dead body," Luli explains. "What I saw was the two of them clearly working on the inspector's body, with the doors wide open." She shakes their head. "They were talking about asking for credits. What for, I'm not sure, but it doesn't bode well," she tells Cayde. The dark circles under Mondrian's (F) eyes fade and her face goes two shades less pale. "Thanks," she murmurs, still refusing to look at Navi. She sighs. "Look. Just don't worry about it. Everything will be a lot less complicated if we just take it at face value. He's missing, or dead, and probably not worth looking, in all honesty." She shrugs, as if trying to pretend none of it mattered. "Alright, that's fine," the Baron says calmly, despite Volken's outburst. He waves a hand dismissively. "-I'm- going to get something to drink, and sit down. If you want answers, you'll at least join me at a table. You see, I'm in a bit of a predicament. Don't worry, it'll be worth six hundred thousand credits for you and whoever decides to help you," he spares a Jorn a fleeting glance, "and whatever admission and information you want regarding the Dark Saber, what I did with it, and why I did it." 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Zetha will likely be able to see the Baron talking to Volken and Jorn in the entry way to the cantina. If she's looking for some kind of sign, or signal from him, she'll get none. Volken clearly doesn't want drinks, so... so much for that plan. She might be anxiously waiting for some kind of communication from the Baron when she'll get a tap on her shoulder from the bar owner herself. "Hey uh... how long you stayin' to help tonight? The folks on street clean up said you dipped in the middle of a massive haul. I think they kinda need you back..." 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha is almost of the mind that the Baron is having a difficult time getting people to actually get drinks. When the bar owner taps her on the shoulder she flushes purple in her cheeks and shakes her head. "I got distracted by something else... I'll go help them out again...but listen.." She tries to coyly motion over towards 'Jasper' and crew. "He's going to order some drinks. He'll be expecting me to not let the glasses get washed. I know it's the craziest thing to ask...but can you just set them aside if his friends order anything and I'll come back soon to take care of them? I'll even pay you for the glasses out of my own pockets. We just can't lose this opportunity." Because she trusts the bar owner - they've likely been through a lot together over the years. 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' "You don't get to walk in here and act like you've got control over this situation. I will BREAK YOU IN HALF." Volken starts forward slowly, hands twitching now and helmet fully on, giving him the look of an approaching tank. "I'm tired. I've nearly drowned. I"ve people I thought I could start to depend on betray my trust betrayed and I've been running all over this forsaken planet trying to find you and deal with you while your insane brother continues to betray any attempts I've given him to prove his worth! You don't just -swagger- in here and then act like you can call the -shots-. -I- call these shots! Stay where you are and explain things -here-! -NOW-. Or I'll tear your head off and I"m leaving!" He waves a hand at the end of all that, though still bearing down. "Credit's are meaningless in the face of personal satisfaction. I've -got- access to mountains of credit if I want to earn it. Now. TALK---NOW-" If Jorn, Er'gi or Ellari don't intervene--Volken will likely be ontop of Caine in a moment. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde listens to what Luli has to say, considering what it might mean. Were they trying to fabricate something about the inspector's death? Was someone paying them to do it? But whatever for?     But he doesn't outwardly respond immediately, simply sitting there with a mildly pensive expression that is fixed on the Mikkian girl. 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "If that's what you want," Navi says reluctantly to Mondrian (F). "But if you need someone to talk to, or any kind of help besides that, I'm available. Or at least I'll try to be, given the state of this town." She glances over her shoulder at the angry roars coming from the barroom. "That's sounding worse and worse..." she observes softly, then shouts, "Barkeep! Could someone take over ration distribution, please? I might be needed in a moment!" 

:'''{{#var:418|Jorn (418)}} has posed:''' Jorn is quiet for a moment. He's just listening. Trying really hard not to put his hand on the trigger. Just shoot first, ask questions later. The armored Mandalorian watches. Waiting for more. He will ask a simple question, "Why should we trust you?" 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' The bar owner rubs her head, confused. ".. er, so what's this all about Zetha? You know that guy, he was looking for you that one time, what happened? Are you alright? Are you trouble? Because Wiis isn't gonna like that." Caine doesn't seem bothered by Volken's aggressive demeanor. "Then sit down," he says, sitting down at a table just a few feet away from the other Mandalorian and gesturing. He looks to Jorn. "Because," he says, "I understand." he says to both of them. "I get it. He's my brother, I've had to put up with him my entire life, not just half a year. He's a symptom of a society whose so called backbone is honor but as soon as that honor is perceived as gone, you're thrown to the akk dogs. Mandalore is thriving, for now. We're drowning in disunity, Volken. We're eating chaos for every meal and calling it prosperity. It's pathetic, and you know it. I bet you anything in a few hundred years time, we'll have turned our planet into a gutted hole in the aftermath of our infighting." He sighs. "We're on a doomed trajectory," he says to Volken and Jorn. He sighs. "And that's why what I'm doing here, and the job I'm offering you, is more important than five hundred thousand more credits in your pocket. You see, the planting of the Dark Saber on Jorn wasn't just some hateful act fueled by a thirst for revenge. Yes, I did want revenge, and still despise Jorn for taking the love of my life, but there's more important matters at hand." "He was a distraction. A distraction so I could slip away, to indulge in my research while pretending that I didn't want to admit that I'd put the Dark Saber in Jorn's possession purely out of spite." "I'm going to fix Mandalore. I'm going to fix our political crisis, gut Revara's mother's influence, and level the playing field for both Houses. House Vizsla, despite my allegiance to it, has been in power far too long for it's own good. If I succeed, there will be no more backstabbing, no more foolish duels and bloodshed over ancient relics that by themselves, mean nothing." He suddenly gets up, and goes over to the bar, motioning to Zetha. He then whispers to her. "I need you to turn up the heating in here. Maximum capacity." Then he goes back to his seat across from Jorn and Volken. "You know I'm right. I'm making progress. Good progress. But I've hit a snag with the Arkanians." The doctor frowns at Cayde. "I want you to interrogate them," he says to the young padawan, "but of course, not without Rykard's supervision. Do you think you can do that?" Mondrian doesn't say yes anything. She doesn't say yes, and she doesn't say yes no. Instead, she just stands there, hands in her pocket. Her expression distant. Suddenly, she says to Navi, "Hey do you think, that if there's um, room at the bar, that you'd want to get drinks...? With me. If you don't want to, that's fine. You seem busy anyway. Sorry." 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "If I promise I'll tell you after will that be good enough? I'm not in trouble. Not really. I'm helping Doctor Cassias and a few others get down to the bottom of some nefarious things and that one is the root of it. And I'm the catalyst. Also. Please don't tell mom. She'll kill me before anything else does..." Then Zetha looks towards the baron and others. "Now. I'm going to go help haul stuff because I can...and if he asks about me...just tell him I got called to go repair something. He should understand." 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Interrogate? As in, search their minds for intentions, memories? Cayde assumes that's what he means, anyway, resisting the urge to see for himself.     The padawan nods. [Okay] he signs. [When...now] he asks. 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' Volken lays his hands on either side of the table Cain is sitting at. The table resists. The table, then, instantly crumples up. Barely a second after he touches it. It balls up, crushed, breaking, sundering in Volken's grip as he cmopresses it violently in a show of outrage and frustration infront of Caine. When he drops it tot he ground at the Baron's feet, his outrage is clear and only barely tempered by his incredulity at his words: "I've been dragged all over the galaxy, chasing after you and dealing with the Dark Saber nonsense and -now- you show up with an intent on some sort of -noble- scheme? You're -crazy-. You've had all this tiem to just come clean about it and now you want to just pitch some sort of effort to 'fix' Mandalore after all the mayhem and chaos -you- caused? I should -twist- your head off! Thaelin lost his -arm-. over this. The girl you supposedly love -doens't want you-. She tried to run -away- from Mandalore. You better give me something more then some sort of noble quest showing up out of blue!" Volken turns to Jorn and rumbles, "Don't -trust- him." 

:'''{{#var:418|Jorn (418)}} has posed:''' "You want to create a power vacuum and who would benefit the most? Why such extremes to do this changes?" He looks at the Baron. "Why go through all of us to get to this goal? You've betrayed everything you claim to have stood for," Jorn says curiously. Looking toward Baron with some curiousity in his voice. "I was with Volken long before this conversation, but I'm pretty sure I'm still camped there." 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' Navi winces at the sound of cracking, splintering wood from inside the bar. A LOT of cracking, splintering wood. "Mondrian? Any other time, I'd be happy to," she says softly, meaning it. "But going by the noises I'm hearing from inside, I don't know if anyone's getting drinks in there tonight. For the moment, at the very least. Would you settle for a raincheck?" She looks back over her shoulder, to see if anyone's coming to relieve her on ration distribution, even as she continues to do the job she'd been volunteered for... 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' The Baron doesn't flinch when Volken crushes the table, but he does put on his helmet. "Let me tell you a story," he says, suddenly. "When I was young, I learned about the Dark Saber, as all good little adike do. I'm sure you all did as well." "But you know how Mandalorians are. All the history books talk nearly exclusively about the Dark Saber, and very little about the duality of the man who wielded it. Tarre. Tarre Vizsla." "Both Mandalorian and Jedi. The last and arguably greatest Mand'alor who ever lived, the only Mandalorian Jedi. Of course, our teachers mostly only spoke about how he was a great Mandalorian, and said nearly nothing about his time as a Jedi. They spoke about the justice of the great war, and how after much bloodshed they were able to obtain the relic once more." "I became fascinated. Obsessed. I studied him, endlessly. And I observed our world. Our constant state of civil unrest and political upheaving. And the more I studied him, the more I began to realize that it is not a weapon who makes a man, it is the man who makes the weapon." "When I went into the vault I wasn't just looking to take the saber. I was looking for any possession of Tarre's. I found a few. And with it, trace remnants of his DNA. His possessions had been stored so precisely and perfectly that naturally, it was rather degraded, but not entirely." "And you may be surprised to know, that after running thousands of tests, I've found a path forward. It's possible. Tarre can be recreated. The process has already started, and so far, things look promising." "Now, it doesn't matter whether you believe in my vision, or not. What matters is that the Arkanians have copied all of my research to some external databank, and disappeared. I don't know what they're doing with it. But the worst can be assumed. They're only concerned with two things: Recognition and credits. Now, neither of us may be successful, but there is also the possibility that both of us end up successful. And you both know what that could mean, for Mandalore, perhaps for even the rest of the galaxy. The artificial creation of a Force sensitive being." "Perhaps you don't care about the rest of the galaxy. But there are people you care about, who, if this comes pass, will get caught in the crossfire. Thaelin. Sanza. His father, the Duke. Revara, even, probably. Their heads will be the first to get put on a platter if an uprising occurs." Mondrian (F) suddenly frowns. "I mean, you're not going in there without me," she says, suddenly reaching for her gun to make sure it's there. She then starts heading for the cantina. "We have to go find Rykard first," the doctor says sternly. "And they're not off their shift yet, so probably not this immediate second." But the bar owner had always been a busybody. "Something nefarious? Like what? What's going on?" she pesters the Twi'lek. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha sighs and when she explains things, she keeps her voice as low as possible to still be heard clearly. "In it's simplicity... cloning. And that Mando what keeps asking for me? He's got a lab somewhere. Soren, Thaarin and a couple others want me to try and get into the lab. So I've befriended the Mando...loosely...and he keeps making me do tasks to earn his favor to take me to his lab. So this needs to go smoothly... but I can't be in several places at once. And if I don't go help with the hauling their hovercrafts might break and I'll need to fix them. Soooo... can you help me with this one teeny tiny little thing? He orders the drinks, they finish the drinks, you just don't clean the glasses. I'll be back in...what...half an hour at most?" 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' The way Volken turns towards Jorn after he speaks - even with his helmet on - it's clear that he's surprised. His body language showing some shock at something he said. He then seems to relax just a little bit. He turns to look for Er'gi to see if the other Mandalorian mammoth is near. Ellari is apparently long gone. No longer a factor - at least at the moment. He looks back tot he baron, listening. His body language once more becoming stiff. Dangerous. "SO again wer're back to the fact that your'e insane and your insane behavior has possibly triggered something that'll become everyone elses problem. Sounds like -exactly- what I just described about you a second ago.....and what's -worse- you created a problem that will possibly drag The JEdi into the middle of it.... I'm so far not seeing why I still shouldnt' take your head off. Is that why you were cloned? then?" Volken valls silent and then his body leans backwards slightly. "...Let the Jedi decide." he finally says and then looks to Jorn, " We should let the Jedi decide. We'll let Cayde or Navi get into his head and see if he's telling the truth." He looks back to Caine, waiting for his reaction to that. 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' Spying someone in line with a friendly face, Navi hastily draws her aside for a moment. "Excuse me, but I'm needed inside," she whispers, showing her Deputy Marshal's ID. "I'll give you a double ration if you can take over distributing the rations for me." The young woman is surprised, but agrees readily, and Navi hastily departs with hers and Cayde's rations, hurrying inside after Mondrian. Inside, she doesn't have to look for more than a moment to spot the remains of a table, and then the only person in the bar capable of breaking a table with his bare hands. "I'm getting the feeling that I've walked into the middle of a tense conversation," she says softly to the Mandalorians gathered. "Hi, Volk." 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     [Okay] Cayde nods again, acquiescing to the doctor's stern words. He has determined that, if he at least follows everyone else's recommendations to the letter, if the results are bad, then it would at least be partially their responsibility.     He frowns though, as there is...a disturbance coming from the main dining area of the cantina. Tensions are rising, if not Volken's rage, then the distress of the cantina's patrons and workers is rising quickly. He glances in the direction of the nearest wall of the room that faces the front of the establishment, even if it's just a blank wall. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "Zetha," the bar owner says, "That is crazy talk. How'd you hear about any of this? You've been reading too many holobooks, I swear!" The bar owners shakes her head. "Well, whatever favor he wants from you, sure don't look like you managed to git 'er done. And that's probably for the best! The Mandalorians are trouble, and you should steer clear of them. Before I decide to tell Wiis about all of this." She folds her arms. "They didn't even order drinks... feh..." Then she starts walking away. "Fine," the baron admits reluctantly. "I admit it was a wild gamble. An insane one that probably wasn't going to work. And I didn't think it would work, to be honest. But I didn't want it to be for lack of trying, and now, I'm afraid I've become too successful and the Arkanians have decided to use my research for their own purposes. I can't imagine it will amount to anything good. My DNA is there, and so is Tarre's. It's a recipe for disaster." The baron, if he's intrigued or afraid of Volken's suggestion, doesn't voice it. "I suppose," he says dryly in response. Mondrian is right behind Navi, her hand on her holster. Vons suddenly materializes too, he'd been around, watching Jorn. For now, he just observes, brows furrowed, arms folded. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "As if Wiis doesn't already know...parts...of the story..." Zetha offers and then shakes her head. But then the bar owner is walking away and Zetha glances over to Baron and company to see that they still haven't ordered anything. And that the Baron is rambling his head off. Fine. She needs to go help with demolition stuff...like she agreed to do in the beginning. Though she does have to pause for a moment to send a message off to Soren. <<They haven't ordered drinks and I'm needed back with the demolition crew...I don't know what else to do at this point. ~Z.>> Then she continues on her way to leave the Cantina. Secretly. Ish. Perhaps out the back. 

:'''{{#var:418|Jorn (418)}} has posed:''' "To bounce off of what Volken said, all I'm seeing a is a problem from a situation that's self-inflicted. You want us to fix -your- problem after you caused us a ship-load of problems related to your own," Jorn is more tempted to just pull out a blaster and let loose some shots. "I was taught there are some things worth more than credit. Credit talks, but only so far. What -else- is in it for us? Because right now, I'm not seeing much of anything. And that's -if- we fix this little self inflicted wound of yours," he just stares at the Baron. Jorn is definitely not swayed by any of this. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     'Speak of the devil and he shall appear.' Or should it be 'speak of the Jedi'? Just as Volken mentions that the Jedi should judge and that Cayde should be let loose inside of Caine's mind, the padawan comes out of the back room to see what the commotion was all about. He frowns at the broken table, and glances over at Volken. 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' "Mebee I haven't made myself clear..." Volken's voice becomes more gutteral, less refined, more brutish as he leans in towards Caine. The compressed table is in his hand again - and a spasmign of his enormous arms takes place - visible, tattooed, slightly hairy, vained pillars of muscle bulkig up like bolders under his ruddy flesh. The sinewy movements causing the table to abruptly compressed even further - balling up to the size of a child's ball from what was previously a table large enogh to support a group of people. His helmeted visage loms in closer towards Caine, "If I find out that your'e lying.." he whispers, "...Or that youre trying to trick us... I'll show you -why- I had t'leave Mandalore and what the bodies I left behind looked like before I left..." So yes. Cayde probably senses -that-. 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' Navi opts to observe as well, putting out a hand to brush the back of the hand Mondrian has on her holster. Cautioning her not to act rashly. 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' "Hiya Navi." Volken didn't forget she was there. He's still staring right at Caine thoguh, looming over him. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' <I can't really help you at this point, Zetha. You're going to have to find a way to do what he wants, otherwise, you're unlikely to get into that lab. I wish I could help you more. But I'm currently not in a position to, and sometimes, too much handholding can be detrimental> the doctor replies to Zetha. She might be about to send another message to him, but then Crane appears, touching her shoulder gently. "Zetha my love what are you doing out here? It's cold out. Is everything alright?" "What do you want, Jorn? I've given you the answers you've wanted all this time, and I've admitted to everything you wanted me to admit. I said part of my motivation to plant the Dark Saber was out of spite, and that this situation with the Arkanians is my fault. How else should I act? Shall I grovel, and beg for your forgiveness? The entirety of Mandalore is at stake, and Revara, right after her mother is the freshly plowed dirt just below that stake. Any power shift will cause House Solstice to resist. And you know Revara. She'll lick her mother's palm like a strill pup, if that meant her approval." He grunts when Volken looms over him, suddenly deflating. "What -choice- do I have," he says, his tone suddenly weak. "My allies have abandoned me, and my brother is nowhere to be found." There's some trepidation about the Jedi in him, but when Cayde appears, he seems surprised by his youthful appearance. "Is this him?" he says, softly, "I'd heard the stories, but this is an adike..." Mondrian flicks Navi's hand away, but she doesn't unholster her weapon. She seems on guard, though. 

:'''{{#var:418|Jorn (418)}} has posed:''' "Volken. What'a good price on top of the credit?" Jorn asks Volken since they seem to be of the same mind of it all. He looks at the Baron. "We both know if you usurp Mother the wrong way you'd lose Revara," because he remembers when Revara tried to harm him for removing her brother's arm. Well, fore arm. Still. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha reads the message from Soren and just as she's about to go back and do something drastic...Crane appears. "I'm fine. Hold that thought. And wait here..." She doesn't let him respond to that before she's back inside the bar. Did the Mandalorians order drinks? No. Is she going to make drinks anyway? Yes. Something strong. Something she's heard people order before, and then she makes them a bit stronger. The drinks are all placed on a tray, the tray is carried over to the crushed table and she just places the tray with the drinks on the table next to them. "On the house. Drink up." And then she's gone again. Not giving anyone any time to reject, thank, or try to pay her. She tosses one look to the bar owner, gives a wink and then heads out the back again. Well. That is. Unless something or someone actually stops her. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde basically walks in with Volken threatening Caine very visibly, so he doesn't exactly need the Force to see that. He resists the urge to just enter the large Mandalorian's mind again and try to calm him down and instead just watches Caine warily when it appears they'd been talking about him. 'Stories'...great.     He tries to simply tap Volken on the back or arm wherever he can reach to try getting his attention. 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' "We know where Kass is and he's out of his mind and in desperate condition. Because of you. Yes he has to account for his own actions but you're not somehow innocent of playing a part in his descent into the way he is..." Volken looks towards Jorn and then shakes his head, tone honest as he says, "Not sure. Double?" After a moment he then looks to Navi and then Cayde wen the young Jedi taps him. He just looks back at the Baron, not commenting on his observation of Cayde and then he turns. "This is the guy we've been lookin' for. Not the clone. The real deal. He claims to know about a threat to both Mandalore and possibly the Jedi and others but he's also a liar...and a thief. We want to make sure he's telling the truth and then ...I wanat him locked up until we can decide on what to do about him and his tip. But keep him away from Kass. The Marauders were working for him to." Volken grumbles. He hates having to give 'orders'.... He then turns and calls out, "Er'gi?" looking for the other giant Mandalore ..and though he doesn't call his name out - he starts searching for someone else who has gone conspiciously absent given how in the middle of things he'd been. "Where's that Disciple at? Where's Crane?" 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' As her hand is brushed aside, Navi gives Mondrian a concerned glance. Then she looks to the Mandalorians. "Sounds like someone to be careful of, speaking as someone who arrived late to this conversation, and probably missed a lot of the really important bits," she says softly. "Obviously nobody's getting locked up in Kublop Springs right now. Mondrian, can you see that this guy's locked up somewhere secure in-system, maybe in Aklyrr Bend or on a neighboring planet, away from Kass, once we're done questioning him?" 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "You know I'd never. Her mother is worse than aruetti to me, but unlike her I'm more interested in pragmatic ways to solve things that don't involve excessive bloodshed and force," He grumbles at Jorn. When Volken says double, Caine sighs exasperatedly and bursts out, tone acidic, "Fine! Fine. One hundred thousand if that's what you want." "Zetha, wait!" Crane runs after her, heading back into the cantina, just as Volken starts to head out, looking for Er'gi and well, him. He almost runs into him, but manages to stop himself before bumping into the Mandalorian behemoth. However, the sudden stop causes him to stumble backwards, and he falls on his backside. He crawls backwards away from Volken, looking afraid and staring at the looming giant. "Sorry! I'm sorry," he says. Just then, Er'gi re materializes, looking like an oversized lost sheep. "Sorry, vod. I tried to tail Ellari, make sure she didn't get into trouble. But I lost her somewhere near the spaceport." "What hell is with you and bowing down to this guy? Like he's never done anything wrong in his entire life and you're just gonna believe everything he says at face value. I don't care if you trust him for no other reason than 'you've got a good feeling about him in the Force.' I don't trust him. I don't trust any of them. And you're not going to change that. I'm not gonna believe anything that 'Volken' guy says unless he can prove that this other guy is the real bad guy, because he's the one who just broke a table and wasn't helping out at all with the rescue and cleanup efforts. This is a light damned mess and I'm not locking anyone up without solid proof that they did anything, other than possibly break into a hospital. Whatever, fine. I'll take him to Aklyrr Bend, but I'm gonna be doing the interrogating. Not you, not Cayde, or Rykard. This is gonna be strictly Republic business from Coruscant this time, no Jedi or Force sensitives involved." Then she takes out her gun and points it at the Baron. "You heard what she said. You're going to Aklyrr Bend with me." The Baron gets up slowly, and starts heading out of the cantina, his gaze going briefly to Zetha. For some reason, Mondrian (F) seems weirdly agitated, moody, and angry without reason. Perhaps Navi will notice. 

:'''{{#var:418|Jorn (418)}} has posed:''' "I think one and a half times, but we should be allowed to control the power vacuum outcome. I mean, we are only in this mess because of Baron to begin with," Jorn speaks rather firmly on the matter. His gaze goes back to the others around here. "What say the rest of you?" he asks thinking a few people would probably agree with them. Just past run ins with the Baron. Although, Jron thinks some of the jedi may not have opinions on the matter. 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' "This is -not- strictly a republic matter, you idiot. W're trying to figure out if there's a wider threat at large to us -all-. I'm doine being diplomatic or lettin't his drag on and go back into circles. We take -action-...and if thats a problem - you konw where ot -find- me. Right -here-. Right -now-." It's time, it seems, for the Mandalorians to be feared as such as he wheels on Navi's companion and stares at her. Staring her down. "You will -not- interfere. You will simply keep him from running -off-." Crane gets the barest of glances now. At least he knows where he is. But he then looks back towards Navi, Cayde and Mondrian F. "What we need to find out is the truth behind what he's saying. If there's risk of a powreful sorcery-using clone...a Force using clone-fine-from Mandalore's past possibly about to be called into being. We need to stop it because that same figure was part of a galaxy spanning war a long time ago." He then spares Er'gi a quick head shake, "Just let 'er go." 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "Easy, Mondrian, Volk... there's been enough violence this last month. Can we just talk this out?" Navi asks gently, stepping partly between the feisty Mondrian (F) and the gigantic Volken. "Wait... did you say /clone/? We've been looking into a pair of dodgy Arkanian scientists who had been doing cloning experiments at the lab at Aklyrr Bend, the one near the Gorge and the Vergence. They've since disappeared, and we stumbled on a hideout and an escape ship that seemed to be theirs," she says. "Maybe we're looking for the same people." 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     [You are angry...calm yourself] Cayde signs to Volken once the big Mandalorian turns to him. He looks over toward Caine. But then Volken mentions someone from the past being cloned into existence, he frowns. [What is this] he asks. [I ask my master first]     And then Mondrian is making demands. Her emotions are clearly out of control. And he again resists the urge to reach into her mind and attempt to calm her down. Instead he just tries to use the Force fling the blaster out of her hand. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha notices the glance Caine gives her, but she actually ignores it. She's not getting in the way of all that hot mess. Instead, she shifts to go back to where Crane's fallen on his backside and then offers him a hand. "Come on. I should be getting back to help with demolition stuff ... but did you come here looking for me? Is everything okay?" What she really wants at this point is distance between her and the Mandalorians. And to get back to her proper work that she was asked to come out and help with. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "Oh since when did you start caring?!" she yells at Volken. "You run around doing other people's morally grey errands for several thousand credits and then suddenly you're concerned about galactic matters, huh? You think you save one guy and that makes you a Jedi? A hero? Please. You're only doing this because that other guy is offering you 100k credits. Yeah I heard you earlier. You said you don't even want to be here so why don't you lug your giant ass off this planet, mind your own damn business like you wanted to and forget all of this happened?!" She screams at Volken, pointing emphatically. She doesn't seem to even notice when Cayde flicks the gun out of her hand. There's tears in her eyes, and she wipes them away furiously. "No. I'm done. I don't want to talk, I don't want to have to deal with this anymore. I'm over it. When we go back to Coruscant for that Dug's trial, I'm -staying-. Clearly no one here cares about following the law. It's just every kriffing person for themselves." She turns to leave, apparently having completely forgotten about Navi's prior request. It would seem that she's not even really mad at Volken, he just happened to be her focal point. Her emotions are overflowing like a raging river, and hopefully with Volken's frustration combined, Cayde doesn't get overwhelmed. "...everything's fine," Crane says, "the bar owner was talking about you getting into trouble, I was worried. Volken's really upset." He takes her hand. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "Well. The bar owner might not be too far off..." Zetha says this, pulling her hand from Crane's own. "Just don't hate me..." Then she turns and shifts to grab Caine by the arm while Volken is screaming and Mondrian (F) is all emotionally compromised to try and yank him away and run off. Caine may have been a bit blindsided by the motion, but somehow Zetha manages to pull him along quick enough that they're soon taking off away from the scene. The Twi'lek has a few little hiding spots - likely from the misspent nature of her youth. They're a bit tucked away that even the monsoon didn't destroy them. "You really owe me now, you realize this, yes?" 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' When the Republic OFficer literally begins to break down and cry - it becomes clear to even Volken that this isn't just about him, yes. so he says nothing. There's no damage he can do verbally that she's not doing to herself at the moment. The others can deal with trying to stop her if they want. He looks towards Jorn, Navi,. r"Yeah...that's the ones. Experiments? Hmm.... So...maybe Caine -is- onto something.." He does nod in agreement with the final credit assessment though but in the end.. it's mostly just trying to make life hard for Caine. It's starting to become clear that it's something they can't just walk away from be credits involved or no.... And realizes that Caine has wandered off making this whole point moot. "Oh -come on-. I knew I should have throttled him when I saw him. We gotta find him!" He looks to Er'gi for help ahd then turns to start heading out of the bar to take a look around. 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "Zetha, what the /frell/...?!" Navi cries, as Zetha suddenly takes charge of Caine and runs right out of the cantina, with Caine in tow, if not streaming in the wind behind her. That girl is /fast/ whens he wants to be! "Swell..." she murmurs, picking Mondrian's pistol up from the floor and slipping it through the straps around her medical satchel. "I'd better find Mondrian before she does something rash. See if you can find Zetha and Caine. Please try not to hurt them. You need That Guy alive, and Zetha's impulsive. I have a feeling that there's more going on here than we know about. May the Force be with you." Then she jogs out of the cantina, looking for Mondrian's (F) trail. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Wait, had there been something about a clone? Perhaps all this was indeed connected. Cayde frowns as Zetha grabs Caine and hurries off. Although he doesn't rush off after them, he knows where they're going. He's been in Zetha's head before...for long periods. And she was thinking about where she was going to go. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Indeed, the baron trips and nearly faceplants when Zetha grabs him out of the blue and starts running, quite startled by her sudden maneuver. "Yes, alright, fine," he says, sounding tired and exasperated. "But where are we going?" he whispers urgently. However, he just follows her, letting her take the lead. Er'gi places a hand on Volken's shoulder. "Look, the boy is already going. Let's.. let's him handle this for a bit, please? I.. I think I need a drink." He goes to take a couple pints from the tray that Zetha had brought out, taking one for himself, and the other for Volken, holding it out to the other mammoth. "Hell of a day... dank farrik..." Crane approaches Volken meekly. "You know, she's wrong. I don't think it takes any more than just deciding that you want to be hero in order to become one," he says to Volken. Meanwhile, Navi won't have any trouble finding Mondrian's (F) trail. The other blonde is storming towards the tram station, barely holding her tears back. 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' "I'm not tryin' to be a hero Crane.." counters Volken, pausing in his search for Caine to answer him. "..And I've done some pretty....well...things some folk wouldn't like. That I dont' like. I'm just trying to get by.... Make it to the next day. That's the est I can do.." He gives Crane a long look and then turns nad starts moving as swiftly as he can into the streets after Caine. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde can feel Zetha's desperation as she hurries away. He remembers she wanted to know the truth of everything, and he'd promised her he would tell her but hasn't followed through. He starts off toward the junkyard at a casual pace--well, casual for him, anyway. Which still means 'leisurely' Force leaping across rubble. Maybe he'll even get to the destination before Caine and Zetha do... 
}}

After the Storm

2026-03-21T01:45:19Z

Andromeda:

{{Log Header
|Date of Scene=2026-02-24
|Cast of Characters=159, 444
|pretty=yes
|Location=Kublop Springs - Tenoo - Outer Rim
}}
{{Poses
|Poses=:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "I think he's dying." Zetha will hear the words coming up from the tunnels below through the open trapdoor. Thaarin and the others had gone down there, to see who had been in the tunnels having come from the convent. She'll also be able to see from where she is, Crane's battered and bloodied body from her vantage point. But then everything starts happening, really fast. Navi is healing Volken and Crane, and then the news of the property inspector being dead is being made apparent to everyone. Then, minutes, or maybe seconds later, several EMTs from the hospital arrive through the tunnel network to take Crane away to recuperate at the hospital, and to wrap up the property inspector's body and haul it away to only light knows where. She'll find herself being hurried to the hospital too. Perhaps she'll remember she had a concussion and make sense of it. Perhaps she'll have forgotten. Either way, she'll find a guiding hand on her back and commanding finger pointing her in the direction of the way she should go to get to the hospital. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' It all happens so fast even without the concussion Zetha's head spins. First it's someone might be dying - and with what she saw - it was likely Crane they were speaking of. Now she's being ushured towards the hospital. Whether it's because someone mentioned she needs to be checked out or they know she'll likely be wanting to see Crane once he gets settled - who knows. She's sort of out of it as things try to fall into place around her. And she follows the ushering all the way to the hospital itself. Though she's silent, perhaps just suffering shock. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' It's all a lot to take in. She'd never properly known the property inspector, but he'd been around for a long time, even before Zetha had been an orphan on the streets of Kublop. She likely hadn't had very many interactions with him, but he had been extra kind to her in all of them. He had a wife, and a child, too. Perhaps it's strange, sad, or both, to see his body being taken away, enclosed in a white sheet, all of his identifying features obscured or flattened. She'll find herself in the hospital lobby, watching them cart Crane away on a medical hover berth, his normally caf colored skin a dull and dark beige. Someone offers her a blanket, and some water. Later, someone vaguely familiar is calling her name. "Zetha? Zetha!" 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' You can't really mourn who you don't know. Of course Zetha remembers the few interactions with him and her heart tugs but it doesn't quite break. Not for the inspector. But for Crane, seeing him being brought in on that medical hover berth, his skin discolored and knowing he's battered and bruised beneath the sheet - that breaks it. She finds herself soon wrapped in a towel and she just sits - wherever she finds that she can. A little out of it, her mind trying to sort through everything. If only they had been faster. If only the monsoon could have staved off another day.... Then a voice is calling her and she looks up and over, but she's still not speaking. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' It's the doctor's assistant, Luli. She would have seen the Mikkian around here and there, she normally had a bubbly, vibrant personality. But today her tendrils are drooping and her brows are furrowed even though she's smiling. "Oh, sorry," she says softly, coming to sit down next to Zetha. . "I should call you Miss Rumir. The doctor wanted me to let you know that he wants you to stay at the hospital overnight today. He's busy with other patients but he wanted to personally check in on you later to make sure you were alright." "I.. I think he doesn't have a lot of faith in Force healing." She chuckles softly, then stands up. offering Zetha a hand another weak smile. "I'll show you to your room?" 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "Zetha's fine." The Twi'lek finally speaks, but her voice is soft. Barely above a whisper. "You can call me that." The doctor wants her to stay overnight. Of course he does. But she has people to check on. Crane, Thaarin, Wiis, the Big Scary Man. She can't do all of that from a hospital room. And when Wiis finds out she got hurt? Zetha's not sure she can withstand disappointing the Zabrak any more. Still, she stands, but she doesn't move. "...I want to see Crane first..." It's not really a question or a request. It's a statement. But she'll likely just follow Luli wherever she takes her. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Luli then smiles warmly at her. "You will," she says, "don't worry. This way, please," she says, heading for a stairwell to their left. "We'll have to go down before we go up," she says, "sorry about that, the storm didn't collapse the hospital but it did break some windows in the stairwell to the upper east wing. And the upper west wing stairwell access is in the basement. It'll be a bit of a trek, but we'll get there, I promise," she tells Zetha. "I'm sorry about everything," she says, as they head for the stairwell, "this must have been really hard for you." 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "I made it out better than others..." Zetha offers, shaking her head some. "I should be going home and checking on Wiis. Seeing if the others got out safely. I can't be confined to a hospital bed. It's not fair..." Still she follows. Because she was told to. Because if she defies doctors order while actually actively hurt - he won't be very happy with her. At least the headache is gone for now. But she's not without her own bruises and the singular gash on the back of her head. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "But the EMTs said after they had a brief look at you that they think you got a concussion," Luli tells her. "The Co Deputy was able to heal you from most of it, but they also said they weren't sure you were fully healed. They didn't have time to give you a full diagnostic. It'd be good to just make sure. Besides, don't you want the doctor to make sure you aren't putting yourself at risk again?" They start descending the stairs. "Anyway," Luli continues, "we already reached out to your mother. She's alright. The mayor and his family stayed to help her with the house and the flooding. They were going to have her spend the night at the guest suite at the mayor's residence, but she refused, so they opted to camp out in the living room at her house to keep an eye on her." Well, of course she'd refused. Wiis probably would have rather been put in an early grave than spend the night at the mayor's house. Perhaps it's welcome news, though. If she was cantankerous enough to refuse sleeping in twelve hundred count sheets from Ghorman, she was well enough to not be worried about. Probably. As they descend, Zetha might notice that the lights are dimmer. And as soon as they reach the basement, it's very dim. And kind of wet. And -really- creepy. It's all cement down here, and it smells like bad science mixed with rotting eggs. It might suddenly occur to her why -- the morgue is down here. "Oh," Luli says with a nervous laugh, "Maybe they didn't fully restore power to the basement yet?" 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "All I did was bash my head against a metal rooftop. I'm fine. I've had worse." Zetha offers as they continue to walk. "Yes, Navi did ease a headache I had... and I've been fine since..." Of course she's not going to win this battle, and she's not going to refuse what's being ordered for her to do. So she'll stay. Though as they descend into the basement, Zetha begins to grow a little weary. Listening to how her mother protested about staying in the Mayor's house has her pausing to chuckle. Then she has a good look around. It's dim, creepy and wet. "Are you sure my room is down here?" That nervous laugh doesn't sit right with her either. Zetha's heckles get raised. "...What's going on?" 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "Oh no, of course not," Luli says, "Your room is upstairs, but we have to access the stairwell to get it from here because the other one has broken glass and debris in it. It's uh-- this way," she says, navigating through the dim hallway. Luli herself seems uncomfortable, but it's obvious she's trying not to let it show. As they walk along, Zetha will suddenly hear voices coming from down the hallway. But she won't be able to see anyone from her vantage point. ".... what if... what if we said, 'they're not free'?" "What? Okay, no. That's messed up. You know it." "Oh come on! They wouldn't have access to this stuff if it weren't for us doing our part. We deserve a cut. Seriously.." Luli pauses, frowning, but then just keeps walking, although she quickens her pace. And then suddenly, they're in front of the morgue. The doors to it are wide open, and two morticians are standing there, right inside the morgue, barely a meter away with the berth carrying the dead inspector's body next to them. The sight... is sickening. They've folded down the upper part of the white sheet, revealing the head and torso of his unclothed, deathly pale white body that's still wet from all the rain. His cheeks are sunken in, and in this lighting it looks almost like his body has prematurely started rotting. They've already cut him open, too, it would seem. There's a long silver of a cut running form his clavicle to his belly button. One of them is holding a vial with a piece of soggy, dead tissue coated in half curdled blood. But as soon as Zetha and Luli appear, they quickly cover the body back up with the cloth. "What the kriff are you doing down here!" one of them yells aggressively. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Right. Luli had said that. And Luli's not the type to set up some nefarious trap for Zetha right? Then they continue walking, voices are heard, and Zetha matches Luli's quickened pace. Then the morgue comes into view and what Zetha sees almost makes her sick right there. "What the kriff..." She stammers, shaking her head. "Part of the hospital's a mess. We're trying to get to the other wing...that's all." She offers the truth, tugging her blanket tighter around her shoulders. "I didn't see anything. We're just going to keep going..." 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Luli hurries along as well, quickening her pace. She then reaches a door at the end of the hallway. "Here, here," she says, her tone nervous. "The stairwell is here." She seems quite unsettled. They start up the stairs in silence, which is uncharacteristic for the usually chatty Mikkian girl... 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha follows, matching pace to keep up, but her body is really getting tired. Maybe she's not as well off as she thinks. "Seriously. Don't commit that to memory. If asked, feign ignorance. They shouldn't be working with the doors open anyway..." But what was in that vial and did they pull it from the inspector's body? 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "They never do," Luli says, morose. "It's actually against protocol..." she trails off. But then she finally says, "It's okay, don't worry about me, I've seen plenty of dead bodies before. It just comes with the job," she says, "I just thought how unpleasant that must have been for you. Unless you've seen your fair share of dead bodies before..." she laughs nervously again, trying to ease the tense moment with a joke, but maybe it didn't land. It might occur to Zetha that she probably hasn't ever seen a dead body like that before... 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "You make a habit of going down to the morgue and watching them work?" Zetha asks, and if she had eyebrows, one would be raised. "Listen. It's okay to admit that that was a bit...gross...and such. Anyway....how about we get me to that room..." Then she grins. "And no. I've never really seen a dead body before...not until today." 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "Oh," Luli says, "I'm sorry," she says, "I don't mean to make humor a coping mechanism. The doctor says that a lot of people with emotional and psychological trauma do that..." About four flights of stairs and several left-right-left turns down whitewashed hallways, they arrive. Luli doesn't open the door right away though. Instead, she peers through the narrow window first, then looks over at Zetha with an encouraging smile. "You can go in now," she says softly. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "Does it help? If it helps you then why are you apologizing? My coping mechanism is still tossing things into a box, chaining the box and stuffing the box into a hole." The Twi'lek shrugs as they walk. A long way. Untul they're in front of a door. As they pause, she notices that Luli doesn't open the door right away. Instead, there's peering through a window, and then she's told she can go in. Odd, but okay. So she opens the door and lets herself in, prepared to be confined to a bed for the next 12 or so hours. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "No, of course not -- it ..." then she trails off. "I'm just really glad you're seeing the doctor for counseling sessions." She might be surprised to find the Crane is in there, too, actually. There's an extra berth in there as well, pushed up right next to his, effectively forming a queen sized mattress. He looks asleep, and there's an IV for blood transfusion going into his left arm. However, when Zetha comes in, he stirs a little. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "You and a few other people. I suppose myself included. Sometimes." Zetha says and then she smirks, as if somewhere in there was a joke. Either way, she shifts to enter the room. When she sees Crane laying in that bed, another one pushed up beside his own, she skips a breath. Cause there he is, battered and beaten, blood transfusion. Her heart skips but she steps further into the room. As he stirs she stills, but only for a breath, before she's climbing into the bed pushed next to his and reaches her closer hand over to touch against his arm. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "Well, suppressing feelings and using humor as a coping mechanism isn't healthy," she says, "just remember that." She giggles softly when she quickly climbs onto the bed next to Crane. "If you need anything extra, just look in the drawers by the door," she says, and then she dims the lights a little and closes the door. When she touches his arm, his eyelids flutter open. "...Zetha?" he says weakly. He looks a little better than the last time she'd seen him. He's a little less pale, and his skin feels warm, at least. There's a faint scar that bisects the far end of his brow where his head had been split open earlier. And the blood transfusion bag is nearly empty, so that process must have been almost complete. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "Thanks Luli, I appreciate it." Zetha offers before the woman dims the lights and leaves the room. When she hears Crane utter her name, she gives his arm a gentle squeeze. "Crane..." She offers. "Thank the Light you're still alive...when I saw you earlier..." She pauses, the words that she needs to say aren't coming. So she just lets her hand rest on his arm for the moment. She also has so many questions, but Crane needs time to regain his strength. So she'll wait. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' He seems a bit groggy and out of it for a moment, but after he shakes away the initial sleepiness, his eyes light up. He sits up, with much effort, and rubs her cheek gently with one hand. "Why'd you come after me?" he says, brows furrowing a little. "You could have died." 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "You were in trouble... Thaarin said you had been taken hostage. And then with the monsoon... if we hadn't have come..." Zetha offers and then tilts her head into the had on her cheek. "I came because I was worried for you. And I didn't die - as you can see..." But she's in a bed pushed up against his own. Is this because she's here to stay with him or something more concerning? 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' This seems to occur to him. His brows furrow even more. "Did you tell them you wanted to stay the night?" he says, "is that why the berth is here?" He pauses. "Are you alright? Did anything happen to you?" 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "There...may have been an explosion...and Thaarin may have shielded me from the brunt of it but I wound up slamming my head against the metal roof of the convent." Zetha admits. "Nothing too major. I might have a concussion...but I feel fine over all." Then she offers him a soft smile. "Though asking to stay the night might have been a better path to go down..." 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Exerting a significant amount of effort, he leans forward and attempts to turn her head gently so that he can try to get a look at the back of her head. "What? Did they look at you? Was Navi there? Did she heal you?" 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "It took a while. We had to get down to the tunnels...and that was a blessing because it's where we found the big scary Mandalorian who had been carrying you. Navi healed me of the headache but that's all she managed. She also healed the big scary man. And you." Zetha explains this further. The gash in the back of her head is a few inches long but not that deep. "Doc wants me to stay over night. He'll come see me in the morning..." 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' His expression softens. "Volken..." Then he frowns when he sees the gash. "It's not bleeding anymore," he says, "but I still think it should be covered. Can you lie down?" he asks. And then he actually gets off the berth, and nearly stumbles face first into the wall. "..." Somehow, he manages to make his way over to the drawers by the door. He opens them, but doesn't appear to have found what he was looking for in them. His brows furrow in bemusement. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha makes a face and then shakes her head. "Crane, you should be resting..." She offers gently and then she shifts a little when he falls forward. "Look it's fine. I'm fine. I promise...just...please get back to bed." She offers while he shifts forward and then he's at the drawers. A tilt of her head is given as she watches him. Thinking she may see that bemusement on his face. "What is it?" 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "I thought there would be some bandages in here," he says, "but there's not, just... contraceptives --" But before Zetha can respond to that, the nurse droid in the corner activates. "Good evening, Ezekiah Crane," it drones monotonously, "the hospital patient intranet has notified me that your blood transfusion is complete. Please be seated while I remove the IV." Crane hesitates, but finally complies, sitting back down on the berth. "We need some bandages for Zetha," he tells the droid, "she has a wound on the back on her head." "I can fetch the required medical supplies," the droid replies, "please do not leave this patient room. This is a mandate given by Dr. Soren Cassias." 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' There's a blink when Crane mentions whats in the drawer. Was someone out there hoping...surely not! She actually flushes purple. Then the droid activates, but the name said causes Zetha to blink again. Of course she'll wait until Crane is seated and the droid is likely working on either removing ivs or getting bandages. She'll wait a breath and then looks to him with a smile. "Ezekiah?" 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' The implication seems totally lost on Crane. He seems mostly concerned about getting Zetha bandaged up. The droid removes Crane's IV and then exits the room, returning a few moments later with a roll of bandages. It then will proceed to secure a patch of it over the gash on the back of her head if Zetha will allow it, despite Crane's reluctance to let it do the bandaging, not him. He takes her hand gently, leaning against the headboard of mediberth. "Yes," he says softly, "that's my first name. No one really calls me that." His expression softens. "I'm sorry about your injuries. And for making you worry about me." 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "Why not? It's got a nice sound to it..." Zetha offers while the droid is allowed to banadage her head. When Crane apologizes she waves a hand in the air. "I've suffered worse for less... it's fine." A pause and then a breath. "What happened anyway? Why were you taken hostage? Inside the convent no less..." Figuring the most accurate story will come from the person who experienced it. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' He shrugs. "No one has ever known me well enough to feel comfortable using it, I guess," he says. "But if you want to call me that, I don't mind." he says suddenly putting an arm around her waist and pulling her near. He frowns pensively. "I... don't remember, really. I think that Mandalorian went crazy. I'm not sure why. The doctors told me I had a terrible concussion. Thanks to Navi, I'm alright now." He lies down, and tugs her arm, beckoning her to lie down next to him. "I thought I was going to die. And then I thought about you, and I felt terrible that I wouldn't be able to say goodbye, and about how sad you would be." 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' The physical contact is a little surprising. At least the frequency of it, but perhaps it's part of that whole settling after a near-death experience. Who knows. "I'd like to call you that if you truly don't mind." A sort of name for him all to herself. That has a bit of a romantic ring to it. "I heard Thaarin talk about someone dying...and then I saw your form. I knew he was talking about you. I know Navi helped and managed to get you away from the edge of death.." She says this much and when he tugs on her arm to get her to lie next to him she doesn't hesitate. Curling up against him as much as he allows. "It ever happens again, and you do die, I'm finding away to bring you back so I can yell at your for dying on me." Of course, that usually ends with killing the person again but - that does against Zetha's pacifism. "In all seriousness...I am very glad you did not die..." 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "I don't," he says, giving her a small smile. He touches her nose softly, and when she curls up against him, he puts his arms around her waist again. "Oh," he says, "interesting. The part where I thought I was going to die was before that. Or was it? I don't remember much," he says. Suddenly, when she playfully threatens to find a way to bring him back so she can yell at him, his expression becomes distant and pensive. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "Wasn't there so I'm not sure. In fact, the only thing I ever saw of you was how you looked on the ground in the tunnel..." Zetha offers this gently. Course she's about to maybe say something else when she notices that shift in his demeanor. The look that becomes distant and pensive. "What is it? What's wrong? Is it what I said?" Asking this with a bit of worry behind the words. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' His attention suddenly snaps back to her, and he gazes at her fondly, smiling. He traces one of her lekku gently. "No, I just..." he trails off. Then his expression becomes solemn and pensive again. "There's something I've been meaning to tell you." 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' That doesn't help the worry to go away and Zetha shifts so that her closer hand can take his. "Well...whatever it is...I'm sure it'll be alright. You can tell me." Course the expression on his face tells her it may not be the best of news. She still offers him a smile, trying to perhaps give him a bit of comfort as he finds the words. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "... I think I'm in love with you," he says after a moment's pause. Then he immediately says, "You... don't have to say it back. I'm sorry if I've overwhelmed you..." 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' It's almost visible, the relief that exhales out of her when he speaks those words. Of course, she flushes purple in her cheeks and looks away for a moment. "And here I thought I was being crazy..." she starts, "Cause I think I'm in love with you too. I just didn't want to say it too fast...or put you in some awkward position somehow..." 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' He seems both relieved and enamored when she says that she thinks she's in love with him too. "Oh," he says, "I was thinking the same thing." There's a pregnant pause. "Ah.. I'm not sure how this whole 'confessing my love' is supposed to go. Am I supposed to kiss you now? Are you supposed to kiss me?" And now he does seem to be in an awkward position. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "I mean, that's how it goes in A World Beyond..." Zetha offers, perhaps in a way to remind him that they both enjoy those type of novels. "Unless you don't want to kiss me. You don't have to do what you don't want to do..." And there's sincerity in her words when she says this, her hand that holds his giving a gentle squeeze. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "I do," he says, but he's still hesitating. "I do.." He seems nervous, like for some reason he's not sure she wants him to. "Ah... I'm so bad at this.." 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha actually gives a soft smile and then leans in to brush her lips gently against his own. Tender but quick. "I think we're both bad at this. So at least we can be bad at it with each other and that's not so bad in the end." She whispers while watching him a moment. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' He doesn't say anything then, but whatever nervousness he had been experiencing seems to dissipate. He kisses her back very intentionally this time, perhaps for longer than he ever had. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' She holds the kiss for that length of time and perhaps a breath longer before gently pulling back. Her eyes meet his own gaze and she smiles, but also feels like she's looking at him for the very first time but with different glasses. "I love you, Ezekiah." No more thinking. Just a confident admission. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "And I love you too, Zetha Rumir," he says softly, tapping her nose again gently. He seems to be getting tired again, though, his arm around her waist is going limp. She might get distracted anyway, there's the muted sound of voices right outside the door of the patient room they're in. She won't be able to tell what they're saying, but she'll be able to recognize the voices. Thaarin and the doctor... 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Probably best that Crane goes to sleep, so if he falls into laying down fully she'll at least ease him down and pull the covers over him. Her eyes go to the doors to the room a moment later. Noting the voices but it's all faint gibberish from where she's sitting. So she settles back and waits. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' After a minute or two she'll be able to tell the conversation is... kind of heated. Thaarin doesn't sound very happy. Eventually, the voices hush, which is followed by the sound of footsteps receding into the distance. There's a quiet knock a few seconds later. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' A single eyebrow lofts as she notices the tone of the conversation and then they furrow a bit. Who was upset in this instance? She likely will never know. At the knock, she actually stands up and walks to the door opening it a crack to see who is waiting on the other side. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' It's Thaarin. He immediately notices that 'Crane' sleeping on the mediberth behind her, and his expression goes from unreadable to concerned. "I'm... sorry, is this a bad time?" Perhaps, but the room she'd been put up in (probably courtesy of the doctor) has a screened balcony and by now, the storm has let up to a light sprinkle and no wind. They could talk out there, without bothering Crane. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "I don't think so. Crane's resting and I...I'm not tired. Come on." Zetha offers gently to Thaarin, opening the door a bit more to give him berth to walk in. "I heard they checked on mom and she's safe. Albeit stubborn as a bantha like always." Offering those words while crossing the room to slip onto that screened balcony. Waiting for Thaarin to catch up and perhaps begin to say whatever is on his mind. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' He hesitates, but then follows her to the balcony. Once there, he closes the door behind him and leans gently against the screened wall, arms folded. "I know," he says softly, "I stopped by on the way over, "she's fine, the house is just a little wet. She wanted me to check up on you," he says, "although I'm not sure if that was just an excuse." He gives her a faint smile. "How are you feeling? Better, I would hope," he says, "and performed admirably today." 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "Depends on what you think the excuse was. My credits would be on getting us in a room together..." Zetha says, shaking her head with a soft chuckle. "Me? I'm fine. Shaken a little, I guess...and I'm not sure what you mean by admirably. I barely did anything but bash my head on something..." She looks out over the balcony. "You going to clue me in on what you and Soren were so heatedly whispering about in the hallway?" 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' His scarlet eyes flash in amusement. "Well, I do think someone owes you credits, then..." "If it hadn't been for your quick hands with the welder, we might have all been crushed under a collapsing roof." He moves closer to her, and when she asks about what he and Soren had been talking about in the hallway, he waves a hand dismissively. "Don't worry about it," he says. "I hope you didn't resist treatment for your head trauma," he says, "you could have gotten a concussion..." 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "She doesn't like Crane." Zetha states, likely suddenly. "And apparently no matter what I try to explain to her about you and I she just...doesn't want to hear it. I suppose she'll get over it. One day..." When he tells her to not worry about what he and Soren had been arguing about her purple gaze shifts to eye him for a moment and then there's a light scoff. "Fine. Keep your secrets." She offers. "No one's offered me treatment yet. Except for the droid what bandaged the back of my head. But I won't resist...if it's offered...Not like I'd be able to sneak out of here quietly." 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Thaarin chuckles softly, but doesn't reply to her statement about Wiis getting over her and Crane one day. "Well, good," he says. "I'd imagine that the doctor will come in and see you later, to make sure you're alright and decide when you can go home." There's a pause. "I know today has likely been a lot for you," he says, "and I just want you to know--" There's another pause. "That you have people who care about you and will be happy to listen to how you feel anytime," he says. He suddenly averts his gaze. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha watches Thaarin for a good but silent moment or two before she turns her head to look back over the balcony again. "Are you on that list?" She asks gently, perhaps not wanting to hear the answer for fear of what the answer might be. "I'm fine. If you're worried. Today could have ended much differently and it didn't." There's a pause as she takes a steadying breath. "We can always be thankful for that." 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' He still won't look at her. "I would like to be," he says, quietly. "Yes," he says, "you're right. And I'm not worried. I just wanted to reassure you, that's all." He straightens. "I should go," he says, "the doctor will likely be in shortly to see you." 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' When Zetha looks back, noticing he still isn't looking at her, she actually gives another scoff. "I want you to be..." She offers. "But you can't even look at me right now. So what am I supposed to infer from that?" Then, suddenly, he's saying he should go and that earns a shake of his head. "Of course you do. I never do get but a handful of minutes of your time." She turns away from him then. "I'll wait for Soren and then hope to go home. I'd like to check on mom myself." 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' His expression becomes slightly pained, and his brows furrow. "Nothing. Don't infer anything, don't overthink." "Listen, I would stay. Really, I would. On this rare occasion, I have time to spare. But I can't, and I'm sorry for that. I still want to be your friend and I'll be here for you if you need me, in a limited capacity. Just not right now." And he turns to leave, his expression having gone cold and unreadable again. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Oh if Zetha had something to throw at him she so would. Right at the back of his head. Watching him turn and walk away with that cold expression tugs on her in a way she can't describe. She stays on the balcony after he's gone, leaning on it's railing to just watch the city as the rains continue to come to a stop. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' A few minutes later, there's a quiet knock, and the door cracks open. The doctor lets himself in silently, then says, softly, "Zetha, you awake?" "I want to have a look at your head." 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' She's awake, and still on the balcony. Though she might hear the soft knocking and so she goes to the door separating balcony from room and then slips into the room. "I'm awake. My head's fine. You should just let me go home." 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "Sit down please," he says ignoring her request. "Just because you don't have a concussion anymore isn't an excuse for you to be released prematurely from the hospital. Now let me look at your injury." 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "What were you and Thaarin arguing about in the hallway just a moment ago?" Zetha asks, arms folding across her chest. Of course this doesn't stop her from moving to the bed to sit down so that Soren can have a look at her. "I don't understand people sometimes...why does Thaarin claim to want to be my friend but gives me a cold shoulder?" 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "Boundaries," The doctor says vaguely, "why don't you ask him that question yourself?" he says to her. He looks the wound over, and seems satisfied with what the droid has done. He gestures for them to go out onto the balcony so as to not disturb the sleeping Crane, whose rest seems completely unbothered despite multiple people coming in and out of the room. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "I can't if he doesn't ever give me a chance to! The minute the conversation gets tense he buckles, goes cold and walks away!" Zetha shouts as soon as they're on the balcony. Once they're out on the balcony she moves back to her position of leaning against the railing. "I take it there's something else you want to talk about with me?" 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "You can ask him another time," the doctor says, "I'm sure you'll see him around." "Just wanted to make sure you know I didn't sign for you to be released until tomorrow morning. So I'm sorry but I won't have you going home to Wiis tonight." Then he shrugs. "I should be asking you the same question, Zetha. Your boyfriend almost died, and you got a concussion. I should hope that by now you don't think putting all of that in a box you'll never reopen again is the healthy default." 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "May not be the healthiest option, but it's the one that works for me." Zetha offers before giving a shake of her head. "Whatever you're after in this moment, Soren, you're not going to get it from me. I'm fine." Until she's not, but that's all she's going to say for now. She does pull her comm from her pocket and flips it open to write out a message to Wiis. <<Hey mom. Glad to hear you're doing alright, and still being stubborn. I'll be at the hospital overnight. Just to be safe. See you soon.>> 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "It's the lawful option," the doctor says with a shrug. "He's also a client of mine, as well. I can't share details, Zetha. If he won't tell you, well then. I'm sorry. He didn't take my advice." Soren sighs. "I'm not after anything," he says, "except your physical, emotional, and mental well being. Have you really taken time to self reflect on everything that's happened to you in the past twenty four hours? You might feel fine right now, but unprocessed trauma has a habit of rearing its head at inopportune moments. It's called a -trigger-." Perhaps he's being slightly sarcastic. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "I haven't even been able to reflect on the last twenty four minutes much less twenty four hours..." Zetha offers this before giving a shake of her head. "So maybe now isn't the right time to have me stop and think on everything that's happened." Then she flips open her comms again and lets out a sigh. The next message is to Thaarin. <<What is it that you won't say to my face? You keep me dangling on the string, Thaarin, pretty soon I might just cut it with my own scissors. Let me know when you're ready to talk.>> That done she sighs and looks out over the balcony again. "It's going to take a lot of effort to clean up this monsoon's mess..." 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "I was just asking about whether you'd made an attempt or not," he says, his tone becoming instructive and paternal, "and it sounds like you haven't. If you haven't made the time yet, you should think about when you can." Thaarin doesn't respond, but at least Wiis replies, and asks her if Thaarin had come by to see her. "It'll happen, in due time," the doctor says, "the Republic has supplied ample funding for the humanitarian effort." 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "No. Soon as I got here I was met by Luli who led me to this room. With a stop and a barking at by two people in the morgue cutting open the inspector's body. With the doors open, I might add..." Zetha begins explaining. "When I got to the room Crane stirred awake and was awake enough to talk for a little bit." She further offers that but nothing more. "Then he fell asleep and that's when I heard you and Thaarin arguing in the hallway and now here I am. Cold shouldered by Thaarin and given the fifth degree regarding reflection by you. Now. If you have any insight as to where in all of that I could have put reflection time, please, tell me." 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' The doctor frowns when she mentions the morticians who'd been working with the doors open. He seems to find that concerning but he doesn't comment on it. "Alright, that's fine," the doctor says calmly, "no need to become defensive. It was just a suggestion, a suggestion to think about when you could take time to do it, not a reprimand for not having done it already. I just don't want 'I haven't had time' to be the excuse for suppressing your trauma indefinitely, that's all." 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha closes her eyes, breathes in, holds it for four, and then breathes out again. "Sorry, Soren. I'll make time. I promise." She finally lands on that and gives the doctor a smile. "Probably sometime later this evening when the room is quiet for more than half a minute." She smiles then, looks at her comms to see the message Wiis has left her and groans. She responds in the positive that Thaarin did come by. And that's all she puts. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "Good," the doctor says. "And I see you're doing well self regulating your emotions." "Now, I don't want you to think about what I'm going to ask you for the next 48 hours. But after that, take it into consideration." "Has the Baron reached out about a specific time for visiting the lab?" 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "Not yet. But I'm sure the monsoon didn't help any." Zetha offers and then holds up a finger, "Just wanted to say. I won't think about it. I'll be busy self reflecting on other things." She offers this with a smile and then - as if suddenly - her shoulders drop and she lets out a sigh. "I think I want to lie down a while." 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' The doctor nods. "You're probably right," he says, but he suddenly gets this distant look in his eyes. Zetha will know this look. It always meant he was thinking about something he wasn't going to share. For a doctor who talked constantly about self reflection not suppressing trauma, he certainly seemed like he himself had a lot to hide. "Well, that is what I like to hear," he says, standing up. "You get a good night's rest," he says, "and I'll see you tomorrow morning when you get discharged." A pause. "And about Thaarin." He sighs. "He isn't ill intentioned. He never was. You probably knew that, but I just wanted to make sure you knew. He's a wonderful person with flaws, and I think that you should give him space. That would be the healthiest choice for both of you." 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha watches him as he looks a bit distant but she says nothing. Instead, she nods as he speaks again. "I will. I look forward to getting let go in the morning." Though whether she was -actually- going to leave might yet be known. It may depend on how Crane is doing in the morning also. Still, she walks back into the room and to the bed that was moved against Crane's own. "By the way....and one last thing..." She looks to Soren once more. "If you find out who put contraceptives in one of the drawers of this room...give them a stern talking to please?" She gets into the bed then, not quite snuggling to Crane, but she does gently place her hand over his own. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "Really," the doctor says, his tone hard to read. Crane puts an arm around her. Perhaps he's awake, perhaps he's asleep and the movement is instinctual - but by the time Zetha registers it, he's fast asleep again for sure. "Well it isn't unusual for those in a relationship to process grief and trauma together through physical intimacy," the doctor says, "and it never hurts to be prepared if the timing feels right." And before she can further question him about it, he heads for the door of the patient room and goes to exit. 
}}

After the Storm

2026-03-21T01:44:59Z

Andromeda: Created page with "{{Log Header |Date of Scene=2026-02-24 |Cast of Characters=159, 444 |pretty=yes }} {{Poses |Poses=:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "I think he's dying." Zetha will hear the words coming up from the tunnels below through the open trapdoor. Thaarin and the others had gone down there, to see who had been in the tunnels having come from the convent. She'll also be able to see from where she is, Crane's battered and bloodied body from her vantage point...."

{{Log Header
|Date of Scene=2026-02-24
|Cast of Characters=159, 444
|pretty=yes
}}
{{Poses
|Poses=:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "I think he's dying." Zetha will hear the words coming up from the tunnels below through the open trapdoor. Thaarin and the others had gone down there, to see who had been in the tunnels having come from the convent. She'll also be able to see from where she is, Crane's battered and bloodied body from her vantage point. But then everything starts happening, really fast. Navi is healing Volken and Crane, and then the news of the property inspector being dead is being made apparent to everyone. Then, minutes, or maybe seconds later, several EMTs from the hospital arrive through the tunnel network to take Crane away to recuperate at the hospital, and to wrap up the property inspector's body and haul it away to only light knows where. She'll find herself being hurried to the hospital too. Perhaps she'll remember she had a concussion and make sense of it. Perhaps she'll have forgotten. Either way, she'll find a guiding hand on her back and commanding finger pointing her in the direction of the way she should go to get to the hospital. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' It all happens so fast even without the concussion Zetha's head spins. First it's someone might be dying - and with what she saw - it was likely Crane they were speaking of. Now she's being ushured towards the hospital. Whether it's because someone mentioned she needs to be checked out or they know she'll likely be wanting to see Crane once he gets settled - who knows. She's sort of out of it as things try to fall into place around her. And she follows the ushering all the way to the hospital itself. Though she's silent, perhaps just suffering shock. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' It's all a lot to take in. She'd never properly known the property inspector, but he'd been around for a long time, even before Zetha had been an orphan on the streets of Kublop. She likely hadn't had very many interactions with him, but he had been extra kind to her in all of them. He had a wife, and a child, too. Perhaps it's strange, sad, or both, to see his body being taken away, enclosed in a white sheet, all of his identifying features obscured or flattened. She'll find herself in the hospital lobby, watching them cart Crane away on a medical hover berth, his normally caf colored skin a dull and dark beige. Someone offers her a blanket, and some water. Later, someone vaguely familiar is calling her name. "Zetha? Zetha!" 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' You can't really mourn who you don't know. Of course Zetha remembers the few interactions with him and her heart tugs but it doesn't quite break. Not for the inspector. But for Crane, seeing him being brought in on that medical hover berth, his skin discolored and knowing he's battered and bruised beneath the sheet - that breaks it. She finds herself soon wrapped in a towel and she just sits - wherever she finds that she can. A little out of it, her mind trying to sort through everything. If only they had been faster. If only the monsoon could have staved off another day.... Then a voice is calling her and she looks up and over, but she's still not speaking. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' It's the doctor's assistant, Luli. She would have seen the Mikkian around here and there, she normally had a bubbly, vibrant personality. But today her tendrils are drooping and her brows are furrowed even though she's smiling. "Oh, sorry," she says softly, coming to sit down next to Zetha. . "I should call you Miss Rumir. The doctor wanted me to let you know that he wants you to stay at the hospital overnight today. He's busy with other patients but he wanted to personally check in on you later to make sure you were alright." "I.. I think he doesn't have a lot of faith in Force healing." She chuckles softly, then stands up. offering Zetha a hand another weak smile. "I'll show you to your room?" 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "Zetha's fine." The Twi'lek finally speaks, but her voice is soft. Barely above a whisper. "You can call me that." The doctor wants her to stay overnight. Of course he does. But she has people to check on. Crane, Thaarin, Wiis, the Big Scary Man. She can't do all of that from a hospital room. And when Wiis finds out she got hurt? Zetha's not sure she can withstand disappointing the Zabrak any more. Still, she stands, but she doesn't move. "...I want to see Crane first..." It's not really a question or a request. It's a statement. But she'll likely just follow Luli wherever she takes her. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Luli then smiles warmly at her. "You will," she says, "don't worry. This way, please," she says, heading for a stairwell to their left. "We'll have to go down before we go up," she says, "sorry about that, the storm didn't collapse the hospital but it did break some windows in the stairwell to the upper east wing. And the upper west wing stairwell access is in the basement. It'll be a bit of a trek, but we'll get there, I promise," she tells Zetha. "I'm sorry about everything," she says, as they head for the stairwell, "this must have been really hard for you." 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "I made it out better than others..." Zetha offers, shaking her head some. "I should be going home and checking on Wiis. Seeing if the others got out safely. I can't be confined to a hospital bed. It's not fair..." Still she follows. Because she was told to. Because if she defies doctors order while actually actively hurt - he won't be very happy with her. At least the headache is gone for now. But she's not without her own bruises and the singular gash on the back of her head. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "But the EMTs said after they had a brief look at you that they think you got a concussion," Luli tells her. "The Co Deputy was able to heal you from most of it, but they also said they weren't sure you were fully healed. They didn't have time to give you a full diagnostic. It'd be good to just make sure. Besides, don't you want the doctor to make sure you aren't putting yourself at risk again?" They start descending the stairs. "Anyway," Luli continues, "we already reached out to your mother. She's alright. The mayor and his family stayed to help her with the house and the flooding. They were going to have her spend the night at the guest suite at the mayor's residence, but she refused, so they opted to camp out in the living room at her house to keep an eye on her." Well, of course she'd refused. Wiis probably would have rather been put in an early grave than spend the night at the mayor's house. Perhaps it's welcome news, though. If she was cantankerous enough to refuse sleeping in twelve hundred count sheets from Ghorman, she was well enough to not be worried about. Probably. As they descend, Zetha might notice that the lights are dimmer. And as soon as they reach the basement, it's very dim. And kind of wet. And -really- creepy. It's all cement down here, and it smells like bad science mixed with rotting eggs. It might suddenly occur to her why -- the morgue is down here. "Oh," Luli says with a nervous laugh, "Maybe they didn't fully restore power to the basement yet?" 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "All I did was bash my head against a metal rooftop. I'm fine. I've had worse." Zetha offers as they continue to walk. "Yes, Navi did ease a headache I had... and I've been fine since..." Of course she's not going to win this battle, and she's not going to refuse what's being ordered for her to do. So she'll stay. Though as they descend into the basement, Zetha begins to grow a little weary. Listening to how her mother protested about staying in the Mayor's house has her pausing to chuckle. Then she has a good look around. It's dim, creepy and wet. "Are you sure my room is down here?" That nervous laugh doesn't sit right with her either. Zetha's heckles get raised. "...What's going on?" 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "Oh no, of course not," Luli says, "Your room is upstairs, but we have to access the stairwell to get it from here because the other one has broken glass and debris in it. It's uh-- this way," she says, navigating through the dim hallway. Luli herself seems uncomfortable, but it's obvious she's trying not to let it show. As they walk along, Zetha will suddenly hear voices coming from down the hallway. But she won't be able to see anyone from her vantage point. ".... what if... what if we said, 'they're not free'?" "What? Okay, no. That's messed up. You know it." "Oh come on! They wouldn't have access to this stuff if it weren't for us doing our part. We deserve a cut. Seriously.." Luli pauses, frowning, but then just keeps walking, although she quickens her pace. And then suddenly, they're in front of the morgue. The doors to it are wide open, and two morticians are standing there, right inside the morgue, barely a meter away with the berth carrying the dead inspector's body next to them. The sight... is sickening. They've folded down the upper part of the white sheet, revealing the head and torso of his unclothed, deathly pale white body that's still wet from all the rain. His cheeks are sunken in, and in this lighting it looks almost like his body has prematurely started rotting. They've already cut him open, too, it would seem. There's a long silver of a cut running form his clavicle to his belly button. One of them is holding a vial with a piece of soggy, dead tissue coated in half curdled blood. But as soon as Zetha and Luli appear, they quickly cover the body back up with the cloth. "What the kriff are you doing down here!" one of them yells aggressively. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Right. Luli had said that. And Luli's not the type to set up some nefarious trap for Zetha right? Then they continue walking, voices are heard, and Zetha matches Luli's quickened pace. Then the morgue comes into view and what Zetha sees almost makes her sick right there. "What the kriff..." She stammers, shaking her head. "Part of the hospital's a mess. We're trying to get to the other wing...that's all." She offers the truth, tugging her blanket tighter around her shoulders. "I didn't see anything. We're just going to keep going..." 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Luli hurries along as well, quickening her pace. She then reaches a door at the end of the hallway. "Here, here," she says, her tone nervous. "The stairwell is here." She seems quite unsettled. They start up the stairs in silence, which is uncharacteristic for the usually chatty Mikkian girl... 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha follows, matching pace to keep up, but her body is really getting tired. Maybe she's not as well off as she thinks. "Seriously. Don't commit that to memory. If asked, feign ignorance. They shouldn't be working with the doors open anyway..." But what was in that vial and did they pull it from the inspector's body? 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "They never do," Luli says, morose. "It's actually against protocol..." she trails off. But then she finally says, "It's okay, don't worry about me, I've seen plenty of dead bodies before. It just comes with the job," she says, "I just thought how unpleasant that must have been for you. Unless you've seen your fair share of dead bodies before..." she laughs nervously again, trying to ease the tense moment with a joke, but maybe it didn't land. It might occur to Zetha that she probably hasn't ever seen a dead body like that before... 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "You make a habit of going down to the morgue and watching them work?" Zetha asks, and if she had eyebrows, one would be raised. "Listen. It's okay to admit that that was a bit...gross...and such. Anyway....how about we get me to that room..." Then she grins. "And no. I've never really seen a dead body before...not until today." 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "Oh," Luli says, "I'm sorry," she says, "I don't mean to make humor a coping mechanism. The doctor says that a lot of people with emotional and psychological trauma do that..." About four flights of stairs and several left-right-left turns down whitewashed hallways, they arrive. Luli doesn't open the door right away though. Instead, she peers through the narrow window first, then looks over at Zetha with an encouraging smile. "You can go in now," she says softly. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "Does it help? If it helps you then why are you apologizing? My coping mechanism is still tossing things into a box, chaining the box and stuffing the box into a hole." The Twi'lek shrugs as they walk. A long way. Untul they're in front of a door. As they pause, she notices that Luli doesn't open the door right away. Instead, there's peering through a window, and then she's told she can go in. Odd, but okay. So she opens the door and lets herself in, prepared to be confined to a bed for the next 12 or so hours. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "No, of course not -- it ..." then she trails off. "I'm just really glad you're seeing the doctor for counseling sessions." She might be surprised to find the Crane is in there, too, actually. There's an extra berth in there as well, pushed up right next to his, effectively forming a queen sized mattress. He looks asleep, and there's an IV for blood transfusion going into his left arm. However, when Zetha comes in, he stirs a little. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "You and a few other people. I suppose myself included. Sometimes." Zetha says and then she smirks, as if somewhere in there was a joke. Either way, she shifts to enter the room. When she sees Crane laying in that bed, another one pushed up beside his own, she skips a breath. Cause there he is, battered and beaten, blood transfusion. Her heart skips but she steps further into the room. As he stirs she stills, but only for a breath, before she's climbing into the bed pushed next to his and reaches her closer hand over to touch against his arm. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "Well, suppressing feelings and using humor as a coping mechanism isn't healthy," she says, "just remember that." She giggles softly when she quickly climbs onto the bed next to Crane. "If you need anything extra, just look in the drawers by the door," she says, and then she dims the lights a little and closes the door. When she touches his arm, his eyelids flutter open. "...Zetha?" he says weakly. He looks a little better than the last time she'd seen him. He's a little less pale, and his skin feels warm, at least. There's a faint scar that bisects the far end of his brow where his head had been split open earlier. And the blood transfusion bag is nearly empty, so that process must have been almost complete. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "Thanks Luli, I appreciate it." Zetha offers before the woman dims the lights and leaves the room. When she hears Crane utter her name, she gives his arm a gentle squeeze. "Crane..." She offers. "Thank the Light you're still alive...when I saw you earlier..." She pauses, the words that she needs to say aren't coming. So she just lets her hand rest on his arm for the moment. She also has so many questions, but Crane needs time to regain his strength. So she'll wait. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' He seems a bit groggy and out of it for a moment, but after he shakes away the initial sleepiness, his eyes light up. He sits up, with much effort, and rubs her cheek gently with one hand. "Why'd you come after me?" he says, brows furrowing a little. "You could have died." 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "You were in trouble... Thaarin said you had been taken hostage. And then with the monsoon... if we hadn't have come..." Zetha offers and then tilts her head into the had on her cheek. "I came because I was worried for you. And I didn't die - as you can see..." But she's in a bed pushed up against his own. Is this because she's here to stay with him or something more concerning? 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' This seems to occur to him. His brows furrow even more. "Did you tell them you wanted to stay the night?" he says, "is that why the berth is here?" He pauses. "Are you alright? Did anything happen to you?" 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "There...may have been an explosion...and Thaarin may have shielded me from the brunt of it but I wound up slamming my head against the metal roof of the convent." Zetha admits. "Nothing too major. I might have a concussion...but I feel fine over all." Then she offers him a soft smile. "Though asking to stay the night might have been a better path to go down..." 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Exerting a significant amount of effort, he leans forward and attempts to turn her head gently so that he can try to get a look at the back of her head. "What? Did they look at you? Was Navi there? Did she heal you?" 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "It took a while. We had to get down to the tunnels...and that was a blessing because it's where we found the big scary Mandalorian who had been carrying you. Navi healed me of the headache but that's all she managed. She also healed the big scary man. And you." Zetha explains this further. The gash in the back of her head is a few inches long but not that deep. "Doc wants me to stay over night. He'll come see me in the morning..." 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' His expression softens. "Volken..." Then he frowns when he sees the gash. "It's not bleeding anymore," he says, "but I still think it should be covered. Can you lie down?" he asks. And then he actually gets off the berth, and nearly stumbles face first into the wall. "..." Somehow, he manages to make his way over to the drawers by the door. He opens them, but doesn't appear to have found what he was looking for in them. His brows furrow in bemusement. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha makes a face and then shakes her head. "Crane, you should be resting..." She offers gently and then she shifts a little when he falls forward. "Look it's fine. I'm fine. I promise...just...please get back to bed." She offers while he shifts forward and then he's at the drawers. A tilt of her head is given as she watches him. Thinking she may see that bemusement on his face. "What is it?" 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "I thought there would be some bandages in here," he says, "but there's not, just... contraceptives --" But before Zetha can respond to that, the nurse droid in the corner activates. "Good evening, Ezekiah Crane," it drones monotonously, "the hospital patient intranet has notified me that your blood transfusion is complete. Please be seated while I remove the IV." Crane hesitates, but finally complies, sitting back down on the berth. "We need some bandages for Zetha," he tells the droid, "she has a wound on the back on her head." "I can fetch the required medical supplies," the droid replies, "please do not leave this patient room. This is a mandate given by Dr. Soren Cassias." 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' There's a blink when Crane mentions whats in the drawer. Was someone out there hoping...surely not! She actually flushes purple. Then the droid activates, but the name said causes Zetha to blink again. Of course she'll wait until Crane is seated and the droid is likely working on either removing ivs or getting bandages. She'll wait a breath and then looks to him with a smile. "Ezekiah?" 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' The implication seems totally lost on Crane. He seems mostly concerned about getting Zetha bandaged up. The droid removes Crane's IV and then exits the room, returning a few moments later with a roll of bandages. It then will proceed to secure a patch of it over the gash on the back of her head if Zetha will allow it, despite Crane's reluctance to let it do the bandaging, not him. He takes her hand gently, leaning against the headboard of mediberth. "Yes," he says softly, "that's my first name. No one really calls me that." His expression softens. "I'm sorry about your injuries. And for making you worry about me." 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "Why not? It's got a nice sound to it..." Zetha offers while the droid is allowed to banadage her head. When Crane apologizes she waves a hand in the air. "I've suffered worse for less... it's fine." A pause and then a breath. "What happened anyway? Why were you taken hostage? Inside the convent no less..." Figuring the most accurate story will come from the person who experienced it. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' He shrugs. "No one has ever known me well enough to feel comfortable using it, I guess," he says. "But if you want to call me that, I don't mind." he says suddenly putting an arm around her waist and pulling her near. He frowns pensively. "I... don't remember, really. I think that Mandalorian went crazy. I'm not sure why. The doctors told me I had a terrible concussion. Thanks to Navi, I'm alright now." He lies down, and tugs her arm, beckoning her to lie down next to him. "I thought I was going to die. And then I thought about you, and I felt terrible that I wouldn't be able to say goodbye, and about how sad you would be." 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' The physical contact is a little surprising. At least the frequency of it, but perhaps it's part of that whole settling after a near-death experience. Who knows. "I'd like to call you that if you truly don't mind." A sort of name for him all to herself. That has a bit of a romantic ring to it. "I heard Thaarin talk about someone dying...and then I saw your form. I knew he was talking about you. I know Navi helped and managed to get you away from the edge of death.." She says this much and when he tugs on her arm to get her to lie next to him she doesn't hesitate. Curling up against him as much as he allows. "It ever happens again, and you do die, I'm finding away to bring you back so I can yell at your for dying on me." Of course, that usually ends with killing the person again but - that does against Zetha's pacifism. "In all seriousness...I am very glad you did not die..." 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "I don't," he says, giving her a small smile. He touches her nose softly, and when she curls up against him, he puts his arms around her waist again. "Oh," he says, "interesting. The part where I thought I was going to die was before that. Or was it? I don't remember much," he says. Suddenly, when she playfully threatens to find a way to bring him back so she can yell at him, his expression becomes distant and pensive. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "Wasn't there so I'm not sure. In fact, the only thing I ever saw of you was how you looked on the ground in the tunnel..." Zetha offers this gently. Course she's about to maybe say something else when she notices that shift in his demeanor. The look that becomes distant and pensive. "What is it? What's wrong? Is it what I said?" Asking this with a bit of worry behind the words. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' His attention suddenly snaps back to her, and he gazes at her fondly, smiling. He traces one of her lekku gently. "No, I just..." he trails off. Then his expression becomes solemn and pensive again. "There's something I've been meaning to tell you." 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' That doesn't help the worry to go away and Zetha shifts so that her closer hand can take his. "Well...whatever it is...I'm sure it'll be alright. You can tell me." Course the expression on his face tells her it may not be the best of news. She still offers him a smile, trying to perhaps give him a bit of comfort as he finds the words. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "... I think I'm in love with you," he says after a moment's pause. Then he immediately says, "You... don't have to say it back. I'm sorry if I've overwhelmed you..." 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' It's almost visible, the relief that exhales out of her when he speaks those words. Of course, she flushes purple in her cheeks and looks away for a moment. "And here I thought I was being crazy..." she starts, "Cause I think I'm in love with you too. I just didn't want to say it too fast...or put you in some awkward position somehow..." 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' He seems both relieved and enamored when she says that she thinks she's in love with him too. "Oh," he says, "I was thinking the same thing." There's a pregnant pause. "Ah.. I'm not sure how this whole 'confessing my love' is supposed to go. Am I supposed to kiss you now? Are you supposed to kiss me?" And now he does seem to be in an awkward position. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "I mean, that's how it goes in A World Beyond..." Zetha offers, perhaps in a way to remind him that they both enjoy those type of novels. "Unless you don't want to kiss me. You don't have to do what you don't want to do..." And there's sincerity in her words when she says this, her hand that holds his giving a gentle squeeze. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "I do," he says, but he's still hesitating. "I do.." He seems nervous, like for some reason he's not sure she wants him to. "Ah... I'm so bad at this.." 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha actually gives a soft smile and then leans in to brush her lips gently against his own. Tender but quick. "I think we're both bad at this. So at least we can be bad at it with each other and that's not so bad in the end." She whispers while watching him a moment. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' He doesn't say anything then, but whatever nervousness he had been experiencing seems to dissipate. He kisses her back very intentionally this time, perhaps for longer than he ever had. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' She holds the kiss for that length of time and perhaps a breath longer before gently pulling back. Her eyes meet his own gaze and she smiles, but also feels like she's looking at him for the very first time but with different glasses. "I love you, Ezekiah." No more thinking. Just a confident admission. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "And I love you too, Zetha Rumir," he says softly, tapping her nose again gently. He seems to be getting tired again, though, his arm around her waist is going limp. She might get distracted anyway, there's the muted sound of voices right outside the door of the patient room they're in. She won't be able to tell what they're saying, but she'll be able to recognize the voices. Thaarin and the doctor... 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Probably best that Crane goes to sleep, so if he falls into laying down fully she'll at least ease him down and pull the covers over him. Her eyes go to the doors to the room a moment later. Noting the voices but it's all faint gibberish from where she's sitting. So she settles back and waits. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' After a minute or two she'll be able to tell the conversation is... kind of heated. Thaarin doesn't sound very happy. Eventually, the voices hush, which is followed by the sound of footsteps receding into the distance. There's a quiet knock a few seconds later. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' A single eyebrow lofts as she notices the tone of the conversation and then they furrow a bit. Who was upset in this instance? She likely will never know. At the knock, she actually stands up and walks to the door opening it a crack to see who is waiting on the other side. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' It's Thaarin. He immediately notices that 'Crane' sleeping on the mediberth behind her, and his expression goes from unreadable to concerned. "I'm... sorry, is this a bad time?" Perhaps, but the room she'd been put up in (probably courtesy of the doctor) has a screened balcony and by now, the storm has let up to a light sprinkle and no wind. They could talk out there, without bothering Crane. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "I don't think so. Crane's resting and I...I'm not tired. Come on." Zetha offers gently to Thaarin, opening the door a bit more to give him berth to walk in. "I heard they checked on mom and she's safe. Albeit stubborn as a bantha like always." Offering those words while crossing the room to slip onto that screened balcony. Waiting for Thaarin to catch up and perhaps begin to say whatever is on his mind. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' He hesitates, but then follows her to the balcony. Once there, he closes the door behind him and leans gently against the screened wall, arms folded. "I know," he says softly, "I stopped by on the way over, "she's fine, the house is just a little wet. She wanted me to check up on you," he says, "although I'm not sure if that was just an excuse." He gives her a faint smile. "How are you feeling? Better, I would hope," he says, "and performed admirably today." 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "Depends on what you think the excuse was. My credits would be on getting us in a room together..." Zetha says, shaking her head with a soft chuckle. "Me? I'm fine. Shaken a little, I guess...and I'm not sure what you mean by admirably. I barely did anything but bash my head on something..." She looks out over the balcony. "You going to clue me in on what you and Soren were so heatedly whispering about in the hallway?" 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' His scarlet eyes flash in amusement. "Well, I do think someone owes you credits, then..." "If it hadn't been for your quick hands with the welder, we might have all been crushed under a collapsing roof." He moves closer to her, and when she asks about what he and Soren had been talking about in the hallway, he waves a hand dismissively. "Don't worry about it," he says. "I hope you didn't resist treatment for your head trauma," he says, "you could have gotten a concussion..." 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "She doesn't like Crane." Zetha states, likely suddenly. "And apparently no matter what I try to explain to her about you and I she just...doesn't want to hear it. I suppose she'll get over it. One day..." When he tells her to not worry about what he and Soren had been arguing about her purple gaze shifts to eye him for a moment and then there's a light scoff. "Fine. Keep your secrets." She offers. "No one's offered me treatment yet. Except for the droid what bandaged the back of my head. But I won't resist...if it's offered...Not like I'd be able to sneak out of here quietly." 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Thaarin chuckles softly, but doesn't reply to her statement about Wiis getting over her and Crane one day. "Well, good," he says. "I'd imagine that the doctor will come in and see you later, to make sure you're alright and decide when you can go home." There's a pause. "I know today has likely been a lot for you," he says, "and I just want you to know--" There's another pause. "That you have people who care about you and will be happy to listen to how you feel anytime," he says. He suddenly averts his gaze. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha watches Thaarin for a good but silent moment or two before she turns her head to look back over the balcony again. "Are you on that list?" She asks gently, perhaps not wanting to hear the answer for fear of what the answer might be. "I'm fine. If you're worried. Today could have ended much differently and it didn't." There's a pause as she takes a steadying breath. "We can always be thankful for that." 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' He still won't look at her. "I would like to be," he says, quietly. "Yes," he says, "you're right. And I'm not worried. I just wanted to reassure you, that's all." He straightens. "I should go," he says, "the doctor will likely be in shortly to see you." 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' When Zetha looks back, noticing he still isn't looking at her, she actually gives another scoff. "I want you to be..." She offers. "But you can't even look at me right now. So what am I supposed to infer from that?" Then, suddenly, he's saying he should go and that earns a shake of his head. "Of course you do. I never do get but a handful of minutes of your time." She turns away from him then. "I'll wait for Soren and then hope to go home. I'd like to check on mom myself." 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' His expression becomes slightly pained, and his brows furrow. "Nothing. Don't infer anything, don't overthink." "Listen, I would stay. Really, I would. On this rare occasion, I have time to spare. But I can't, and I'm sorry for that. I still want to be your friend and I'll be here for you if you need me, in a limited capacity. Just not right now." And he turns to leave, his expression having gone cold and unreadable again. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Oh if Zetha had something to throw at him she so would. Right at the back of his head. Watching him turn and walk away with that cold expression tugs on her in a way she can't describe. She stays on the balcony after he's gone, leaning on it's railing to just watch the city as the rains continue to come to a stop. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' A few minutes later, there's a quiet knock, and the door cracks open. The doctor lets himself in silently, then says, softly, "Zetha, you awake?" "I want to have a look at your head." 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' She's awake, and still on the balcony. Though she might hear the soft knocking and so she goes to the door separating balcony from room and then slips into the room. "I'm awake. My head's fine. You should just let me go home." 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "Sit down please," he says ignoring her request. "Just because you don't have a concussion anymore isn't an excuse for you to be released prematurely from the hospital. Now let me look at your injury." 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "What were you and Thaarin arguing about in the hallway just a moment ago?" Zetha asks, arms folding across her chest. Of course this doesn't stop her from moving to the bed to sit down so that Soren can have a look at her. "I don't understand people sometimes...why does Thaarin claim to want to be my friend but gives me a cold shoulder?" 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "Boundaries," The doctor says vaguely, "why don't you ask him that question yourself?" he says to her. He looks the wound over, and seems satisfied with what the droid has done. He gestures for them to go out onto the balcony so as to not disturb the sleeping Crane, whose rest seems completely unbothered despite multiple people coming in and out of the room. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "I can't if he doesn't ever give me a chance to! The minute the conversation gets tense he buckles, goes cold and walks away!" Zetha shouts as soon as they're on the balcony. Once they're out on the balcony she moves back to her position of leaning against the railing. "I take it there's something else you want to talk about with me?" 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "You can ask him another time," the doctor says, "I'm sure you'll see him around." "Just wanted to make sure you know I didn't sign for you to be released until tomorrow morning. So I'm sorry but I won't have you going home to Wiis tonight." Then he shrugs. "I should be asking you the same question, Zetha. Your boyfriend almost died, and you got a concussion. I should hope that by now you don't think putting all of that in a box you'll never reopen again is the healthy default." 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "May not be the healthiest option, but it's the one that works for me." Zetha offers before giving a shake of her head. "Whatever you're after in this moment, Soren, you're not going to get it from me. I'm fine." Until she's not, but that's all she's going to say for now. She does pull her comm from her pocket and flips it open to write out a message to Wiis. <<Hey mom. Glad to hear you're doing alright, and still being stubborn. I'll be at the hospital overnight. Just to be safe. See you soon.>> 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "It's the lawful option," the doctor says with a shrug. "He's also a client of mine, as well. I can't share details, Zetha. If he won't tell you, well then. I'm sorry. He didn't take my advice." Soren sighs. "I'm not after anything," he says, "except your physical, emotional, and mental well being. Have you really taken time to self reflect on everything that's happened to you in the past twenty four hours? You might feel fine right now, but unprocessed trauma has a habit of rearing its head at inopportune moments. It's called a -trigger-." Perhaps he's being slightly sarcastic. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "I haven't even been able to reflect on the last twenty four minutes much less twenty four hours..." Zetha offers this before giving a shake of her head. "So maybe now isn't the right time to have me stop and think on everything that's happened." Then she flips open her comms again and lets out a sigh. The next message is to Thaarin. <<What is it that you won't say to my face? You keep me dangling on the string, Thaarin, pretty soon I might just cut it with my own scissors. Let me know when you're ready to talk.>> That done she sighs and looks out over the balcony again. "It's going to take a lot of effort to clean up this monsoon's mess..." 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "I was just asking about whether you'd made an attempt or not," he says, his tone becoming instructive and paternal, "and it sounds like you haven't. If you haven't made the time yet, you should think about when you can." Thaarin doesn't respond, but at least Wiis replies, and asks her if Thaarin had come by to see her. "It'll happen, in due time," the doctor says, "the Republic has supplied ample funding for the humanitarian effort." 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "No. Soon as I got here I was met by Luli who led me to this room. With a stop and a barking at by two people in the morgue cutting open the inspector's body. With the doors open, I might add..." Zetha begins explaining. "When I got to the room Crane stirred awake and was awake enough to talk for a little bit." She further offers that but nothing more. "Then he fell asleep and that's when I heard you and Thaarin arguing in the hallway and now here I am. Cold shouldered by Thaarin and given the fifth degree regarding reflection by you. Now. If you have any insight as to where in all of that I could have put reflection time, please, tell me." 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' The doctor frowns when she mentions the morticians who'd been working with the doors open. He seems to find that concerning but he doesn't comment on it. "Alright, that's fine," the doctor says calmly, "no need to become defensive. It was just a suggestion, a suggestion to think about when you could take time to do it, not a reprimand for not having done it already. I just don't want 'I haven't had time' to be the excuse for suppressing your trauma indefinitely, that's all." 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha closes her eyes, breathes in, holds it for four, and then breathes out again. "Sorry, Soren. I'll make time. I promise." She finally lands on that and gives the doctor a smile. "Probably sometime later this evening when the room is quiet for more than half a minute." She smiles then, looks at her comms to see the message Wiis has left her and groans. She responds in the positive that Thaarin did come by. And that's all she puts. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "Good," the doctor says. "And I see you're doing well self regulating your emotions." "Now, I don't want you to think about what I'm going to ask you for the next 48 hours. But after that, take it into consideration." "Has the Baron reached out about a specific time for visiting the lab?" 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "Not yet. But I'm sure the monsoon didn't help any." Zetha offers and then holds up a finger, "Just wanted to say. I won't think about it. I'll be busy self reflecting on other things." She offers this with a smile and then - as if suddenly - her shoulders drop and she lets out a sigh. "I think I want to lie down a while." 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' The doctor nods. "You're probably right," he says, but he suddenly gets this distant look in his eyes. Zetha will know this look. It always meant he was thinking about something he wasn't going to share. For a doctor who talked constantly about self reflection not suppressing trauma, he certainly seemed like he himself had a lot to hide. "Well, that is what I like to hear," he says, standing up. "You get a good night's rest," he says, "and I'll see you tomorrow morning when you get discharged." A pause. "And about Thaarin." He sighs. "He isn't ill intentioned. He never was. You probably knew that, but I just wanted to make sure you knew. He's a wonderful person with flaws, and I think that you should give him space. That would be the healthiest choice for both of you." 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha watches him as he looks a bit distant but she says nothing. Instead, she nods as he speaks again. "I will. I look forward to getting let go in the morning." Though whether she was -actually- going to leave might yet be known. It may depend on how Crane is doing in the morning also. Still, she walks back into the room and to the bed that was moved against Crane's own. "By the way....and one last thing..." She looks to Soren once more. "If you find out who put contraceptives in one of the drawers of this room...give them a stern talking to please?" She gets into the bed then, not quite snuggling to Crane, but she does gently place her hand over his own. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "Really," the doctor says, his tone hard to read. Crane puts an arm around her. Perhaps he's awake, perhaps he's asleep and the movement is instinctual - but by the time Zetha registers it, he's fast asleep again for sure. "Well it isn't unusual for those in a relationship to process grief and trauma together through physical intimacy," the doctor says, "and it never hurts to be prepared if the timing feels right." And before she can further question him about it, he heads for the door of the patient room and goes to exit. 
}}

Lost in Translation

2026-03-21T01:41:35Z

Andromeda:

{{Log Header
|Date of Scene=2026-02-01
|Cast of Characters=159, 143
|pretty=yes
|Location= Aklyrr Bend - Tenoo - Outer Rim
}}
{{Poses
|Poses=:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Shortly after chatting with the mayor about the orphans from Coruscant, Rykard and Cayde head back to Aklyrr for a bit to help with some administrative duties Thaarin had requested assistance with. But before they go to the comms center to meet with the Chiss man, Rykard pulls Cayde aside for a ... talk. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Now what was it this time? Cayde follows his master, already searching for hints of what he might have done wrong -this- time... 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Rykard doesn't seem happy. "Why did you say what you said to the stowaways?" the elder Ikkrukki man says, frowning. "The mayor was shocked." 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     [Which part] Cayde asks, sighing. He probably knows which part it was, but this is another question dodging tactic. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Rykard frowns even deeper. "You know which part! Don't try to fool me, Cayde. Answer the question. You know exactly what I mean." 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde flops down onto the plain grey seating set up in his master's quarters.     Well he'd said it because he honestly believed they would be better off back on Coruscant. At least in the city, there were more resources and programs available. [...Coruscant better...stowaways are naive and ignorant...maybe tired of same problems but only trade for new problems] 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Rykard folds his arms. "And how do you know this?" he asks the young padawan. "Coruscant's poverty rate is one of the highest in the sector, did you know that?" 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     [Bigger city...more people...more facilities] Cayde points out. [Few people here or any experts to help]     [But maybe mayor's plan will work] he adds, shrugging. [He can at least try] 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "I'm not talking about sheer numbers Cayde," Rykard says, "I'm talking percentages. Forty percent of Coruscant's citizens live below the poverty line. The welfare programs there are very hit or miss. Most end up turning many away because they either don't care, or don't have the resources to take in certain people." Rykard waves a hand dismissively at Cayde. "I'm not saying you weren't suggesting that. But we have to represent the Jedi well," he says, "do you understand what I'm saying?" 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     [But we have none here...few better than zero...only if mayor's plan works]     Cayde stares at the floor, his expression downcast suddenly. Well he thought he was. [I thought it was best...] That's the truth, at least. [I am sorry master] 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "A new program has higher chances of success if the mayor can get support for it," he says, "and the people of Kublop seem excited for it. The programs on Coruscant don't work well because there's too many people wanting to get into a welfare program that can't support them because most of Coruscant's population doesn't care for charity." Rykard sighs. "I know you meant well," He says, "but it was lost in translation." 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde continues to look downcast. Of course it was. It always is, isn't it?     He knew he would be terrible at this job...why had he volunteered for it?     He doesn't say anything else for the moment. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "Look," Rykard says, "you're improving. But you still have work to do. The Council wants a report from me about you soon, so I want you to pick back up on your lessons with Thaarin again." He stands, and starts heading for the comms center. "We can talk to him now." 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     [I am terrible at this] Cayde suddenly points out. To be fair, Rykard probably knew this would happen. There was almost always a teenaged pity-party. It was inevitable these days, anytime anyone criticized.     The padawan does at least start to follow him out, although there is a dragging of feet. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "Being terrible at something is not an excuse to not do it," Rykard chides, "you're getting better, and you'll continue to do so if you keep working on it." The comms center is just ahead, and Rykard will wait at the entrance for him since he's dragging his feet 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     [I will do it...] Cayde argues, once he finally arrives at the comms center. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "Very good then," Rykard says, and steps aside for Cayde to go in first. Thaarin is already at the front, waiting for them. "Marshal," he greets Rykard formally, and then offers Cayde a small smile and a nod. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde sighs heavily, really not fond of the idea of -more- of this and beginning to regret having volunteered in the first place. But he offers a polite bow toward Thaarin anyway. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Rykard first discusses with Thaarin the arrangements for them to go to Coruscant for Weniscio's trial. Looks like the court date had been pushed out so they wouldn't be heading there just yet. Then he gestures at Cayde. "I know you were helping him before," he says, "I understand I took an absence of leave and you became busy with your promotion, but I'd like for you to pick his lessons back up." Thaarin glances at Cayde hesitantly. "Why, of course, Marshal. Shall they be weekly?" 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde nods glumly when Thaarin glances at him for some sort of confirmation or assurance of his agreement, or something.     Not that he doesn't like the lessons, but he always feels like this every time he fails at something or says the wrong thing. When the blue man suggests weekly lessons, he just looks over at his master. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "Twice a week, if possible," Rykard says. "Now, I'm due for a meeting with the doctor. I'll be back in an hour, in that time you two ought to get some work done and figured out which days are best to meet." He then nods, and heads for the door. "I'll see you later," he says to Cayde as he exits. ", What's wrong?" Thaarin asks Cayde, "I thought you were enjoying the lessons." 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde watches his master leave, then turns to Thaarin.     [Nothing] he signs quickly. [I enjoy them] he tries to clarify, nodding. [But I am no good at this] 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Thaarin smiles. "I'm sure that won't last for long. Twice a week and you'll be ready to become a senator." "Now let's head back to the hab suite to see if we can't get a lesson or two in before Rykard gets back..." 
}}

Lost in Translation

2026-03-21T01:41:14Z

Andromeda: Created page with "{{Log Header |Date of Scene=2026-02-01 |Cast of Characters=159, 143 |pretty=yes }} {{Poses |Poses=:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Shortly after chatting with the mayor about the orphans from Coruscant, Rykard and Cayde head back to Aklyrr for a bit to help with some administrative duties Thaarin had requested assistance with. But before they go to the comms center to meet with the Chiss man, Rykard pulls Cayde aside for a ... talk. :''..."

{{Log Header
|Date of Scene=2026-02-01
|Cast of Characters=159, 143
|pretty=yes
}}
{{Poses
|Poses=:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Shortly after chatting with the mayor about the orphans from Coruscant, Rykard and Cayde head back to Aklyrr for a bit to help with some administrative duties Thaarin had requested assistance with. But before they go to the comms center to meet with the Chiss man, Rykard pulls Cayde aside for a ... talk. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Now what was it this time? Cayde follows his master, already searching for hints of what he might have done wrong -this- time... 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Rykard doesn't seem happy. "Why did you say what you said to the stowaways?" the elder Ikkrukki man says, frowning. "The mayor was shocked." 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     [Which part] Cayde asks, sighing. He probably knows which part it was, but this is another question dodging tactic. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Rykard frowns even deeper. "You know which part! Don't try to fool me, Cayde. Answer the question. You know exactly what I mean." 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde flops down onto the plain grey seating set up in his master's quarters.     Well he'd said it because he honestly believed they would be better off back on Coruscant. At least in the city, there were more resources and programs available. [...Coruscant better...stowaways are naive and ignorant...maybe tired of same problems but only trade for new problems] 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Rykard folds his arms. "And how do you know this?" he asks the young padawan. "Coruscant's poverty rate is one of the highest in the sector, did you know that?" 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     [Bigger city...more people...more facilities] Cayde points out. [Few people here or any experts to help]     [But maybe mayor's plan will work] he adds, shrugging. [He can at least try] 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "I'm not talking about sheer numbers Cayde," Rykard says, "I'm talking percentages. Forty percent of Coruscant's citizens live below the poverty line. The welfare programs there are very hit or miss. Most end up turning many away because they either don't care, or don't have the resources to take in certain people." Rykard waves a hand dismissively at Cayde. "I'm not saying you weren't suggesting that. But we have to represent the Jedi well," he says, "do you understand what I'm saying?" 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     [But we have none here...few better than zero...only if mayor's plan works]     Cayde stares at the floor, his expression downcast suddenly. Well he thought he was. [I thought it was best...] That's the truth, at least. [I am sorry master] 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "A new program has higher chances of success if the mayor can get support for it," he says, "and the people of Kublop seem excited for it. The programs on Coruscant don't work well because there's too many people wanting to get into a welfare program that can't support them because most of Coruscant's population doesn't care for charity." Rykard sighs. "I know you meant well," He says, "but it was lost in translation." 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde continues to look downcast. Of course it was. It always is, isn't it?     He knew he would be terrible at this job...why had he volunteered for it?     He doesn't say anything else for the moment. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "Look," Rykard says, "you're improving. But you still have work to do. The Council wants a report from me about you soon, so I want you to pick back up on your lessons with Thaarin again." He stands, and starts heading for the comms center. "We can talk to him now." 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     [I am terrible at this] Cayde suddenly points out. To be fair, Rykard probably knew this would happen. There was almost always a teenaged pity-party. It was inevitable these days, anytime anyone criticized.     The padawan does at least start to follow him out, although there is a dragging of feet. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "Being terrible at something is not an excuse to not do it," Rykard chides, "you're getting better, and you'll continue to do so if you keep working on it." The comms center is just ahead, and Rykard will wait at the entrance for him since he's dragging his feet 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     [I will do it...] Cayde argues, once he finally arrives at the comms center. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "Very good then," Rykard says, and steps aside for Cayde to go in first. Thaarin is already at the front, waiting for them. "Marshal," he greets Rykard formally, and then offers Cayde a small smile and a nod. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde sighs heavily, really not fond of the idea of -more- of this and beginning to regret having volunteered in the first place. But he offers a polite bow toward Thaarin anyway. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Rykard first discusses with Thaarin the arrangements for them to go to Coruscant for Weniscio's trial. Looks like the court date had been pushed out so they wouldn't be heading there just yet. Then he gestures at Cayde. "I know you were helping him before," he says, "I understand I took an absence of leave and you became busy with your promotion, but I'd like for you to pick his lessons back up." Thaarin glances at Cayde hesitantly. "Why, of course, Marshal. Shall they be weekly?" 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde nods glumly when Thaarin glances at him for some sort of confirmation or assurance of his agreement, or something.     Not that he doesn't like the lessons, but he always feels like this every time he fails at something or says the wrong thing. When the blue man suggests weekly lessons, he just looks over at his master. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "Twice a week, if possible," Rykard says. "Now, I'm due for a meeting with the doctor. I'll be back in an hour, in that time you two ought to get some work done and figured out which days are best to meet." He then nods, and heads for the door. "I'll see you later," he says to Cayde as he exits. ", What's wrong?" Thaarin asks Cayde, "I thought you were enjoying the lessons." 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde watches his master leave, then turns to Thaarin.     [Nothing] he signs quickly. [I enjoy them] he tries to clarify, nodding. [But I am no good at this] 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Thaarin smiles. "I'm sure that won't last for long. Twice a week and you'll be ready to become a senator." "Now let's head back to the hab suite to see if we can't get a lesson or two in before Rykard gets back..." 
}}

The Monsoon

2026-03-21T01:34:09Z

Andromeda:

{{Log Header
|Date of Scene=2026-01-22
|Cast of Characters=159, 321, 296, 444, 261, 143, 418
|pretty=yes
|Location=Kublop Springs - Tenoo - Outer Rim
}}
{{Poses
|Poses=:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' It's been exactly a few hours since Volken and perhaps the other Mandalorians as well have left the hospital. Now, whether Volken is brooding in a bar thinking about his next move, or actively on the hunt for the Zealot, the baron, or the clone, he may or may not be surprised when his commlink crackles to life with a voice transmission from Er'gi. This may come as a surprise, as the other hulking Mandalorian had not accompanied Ellari, Volken and Jorn to the hospital upon Kasseady's summon. Where he had been all this time would have been a bit of a mystery... until now. <Volken!> the other Mandalorian says urgently, <Where are you? Haar'chak! I have bad news. Kasseady has betrayed us. He revealed to me while drunk that somehow, he'd made contact with his brother! I tried to chase him down, but he escaped. I need to find him> 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' The hospital didn't tgo as planned. There was no rescue to be done. Volken standing up to the Jedi Master's refusal to accomodate them regarding the clone was inconclusive and now he's found himself out at a bar, getting drunk before going to look for Zealot. Naturally being drunk while looking for him will sharpen his senses. When the comm link goes off and he hears Er'gi he frowns lightly at frst. He wasn't exactly pleased that he and Kass had just sort of vanished. But now -this- news. "You're joking, vod. " he responds. "Ergh...I"m going to kill him now. He's betrayed my trust... And what's worse - now Ellari will have something to hold over my head for being right about! Unforgivable! Where are you??" 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Er'gi tells the other mammoth. <He suspected I knew, Volken. He was acting strange. Then when I tried to ask questions he jumped me, took my commlink and ran off. I gave chase and eventually was able to recover it but he got away and I'm not sure where he went. I'm on the south side of town, not far from the trade plaza. He can't be far. This town is small and I'd know if he went for the spaceport> 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' "Alright sit tight.." rumbles the giant. He then slowy rises and after a second of getting his mind back together, retrieves his helmet nd starts to make his way out and into the town to head towards Er'gi's location. To say he's displeased is an underestatement and he even keeps his helmet off just so that anyone looking at him and his face can see just how annoyed he is... 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "Err, hope you're headed back to wherever you're staying," the bartender says, concerned. "No one with a half a dozen pints in them should be going anywhere else..." The weather will start to mirror Volkens mood. A dark grey cloud hangs over Kublop, threatening rain. When Volken arrives at the trade plaza, he'll see Er'gi running towards him. "I've good news and bad news," the other giant tells him. 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' Being stone cold drunk is the best tiem to fight as far as Volken is concerned. It clears the mind. So he just ignores the bartender after giving him a quick mildly sullen look and grunting something non committal. Er'gi receives only slightly less ire when the behemoth balefully encounters and eyes the other giant. "Alright.." he grunts out . "Let's have it." 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "Well," Er'gi offers. "I've found him. But I'm not the only one." He points down the street, and Volken will be able to see that a couple blocks down, a small to medium sized crowd has gathered in front of the Disciple of Whills convent. Their dismayed whispers are tell tale. "He's holed up in there," the other Mandalorian says. "And there's a couple townsfolk in there. A Disciple, and the local property inspector, employed by the mayor. He's taken them hostage, more or less. The local constabulary is involved now..." If Volken goes closer to investigate he'll see the constables banging on the door of the convent. "Open up in the name of Republic!" one of them shouts. But there's no response. 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     Ellari had joined Volken at the bar. Honestly, she could really use a drink after getting shot. The Force healing had helped, but she was still sore.     "Who has taken who hostage?" she asks Er'gi. "Kass has taken the mayor hostage?" she scoffs, muttering obscenities in Mando'a. 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' He didnt' want Ellari to follow him but at least she isn't rubbing it in his face and she's probably more sober then him..so Volken just emits a grunt as he mutters, "I knew giving that di'kut a chance was a risk but damn... he could have at least gone a littel bit longer before doing this. Why the hell does he have hostages? What'd he do that requires tihs or rather what'd that fool Caine put him up to? This is nosnse. Can't that idiot see his brother is just using him to cause distractions?" Volken shakes his head and then grumbles, "If we just go in and get him it'll get those hostages hurt or worse...." 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "No, just a couple of civilians. The townsfolk are concerned, obviously. The mayor's here, and so are couple of the Disciples. I don't know what's going on. He knows I'm after him, and I think he's trying to use them as leverage to keep us away--" The constables are banging on the door again, but still, no response. Nearby, a mother consoles her sobbing child. "My dad is in there!" the child cries. The mother looks up at Volken, her own eyes swollen. "Oh please, do something. My husband can't last in there without medicine for his chronic condition. And the other Disciple, he's so young..." 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     Ellari rolls her eyes. "Di'kut." she mutters. "Where is that...mind tricks boy? Can't he use whatever sorcery he has to pound some common sense into that hut'uun before he realizes what's happening?" 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' "Hmmm? Oh ..Cayde... Wherever he is it's not here and not likely to get here in time. Even if was he's unreliable, not to mention I dont' know how well he is at actually -following- orders if they aren't given by his Jedi peers. He certainly doesn't seem to liten to his partner, Navi... She'd be better to have here but they're both not here so it's no use aching about it..." Turning to Er'gi, Volken rumbles, "YOu should back off. We'll go up there and hear what he's got to say. He can't do -anything- just stuck in there after all. He probably wants out.." That said, Volken just gives the mother and child a long look, not saying anything to either of them. He then put shis helmet back on and turns and starts forward for the building. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "Likely went back because of the brewing storm," Er'gi says, "the monsoons can sometimes stall the tram for days." He then nods, and steps back. Upon approaching the building, he'll see the mayor, a couple of Disciples, and the local constables at the front, still trying to get in. One of them looks at Volken disdainfully. "Is this your mess?" he says, brow furrowed, his Coruscanti accent pronounced. "Now now," the mayor interjects. "There's no need for that. Perhaps he can help." One of the Disciples sizes up Volken. "We need to get in. -Quietly-. There's a back door that leads to the communal showers, but we don't have the strength or means necessary to break in without using a blaster or battering ram.." 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     "Hmph, you can't contact him? I thought he was your friend, or something." Ellari remarks, but then shrugs. "I suppose we'll have to deal with this ourselves, then."     She scoffs at the 'quietly' part. "Ah, of course. Volken, how are your stealth skills?" she asks, smirking. 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' "No Ic an't contact him nor would I want to .. I just told you why it'd be a bad idea." grunts Volken at Ellari. "I'd call on Navi first. Cayde has issues he needs to resolve...." That said he looks back towards the mayor and the others, considering their words. He then looks back to Ellari. "They don't exist." Volken? Stealth? "But...I can open up any door. So... why don't you distract Kass by talking to him. I'll go to the back with these ones and get the door open..." 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Suddenly a voice arises from inside the convent. "Volken is that you?" "Don't you dare come in here! I'll -- I'll kill them all!" His voice reeks of desperation and sheer madness. Had he lost his mind? A gasp arises from the crowd and the Mayor pinches his nose bridge with a sigh. The Disciples remain calm, but their brows furrow more deeply. "The backdoor is manual entry. If you can crush the doorknob," she says, "you should be able to get in." 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     "You are a pathetic excuse for a Mandalorian, Kasseady." Ellari shouts back at him. "What do you want? Come out and fight for it, instead of hiding behind strangers!"     How's that for 'talking'? 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' Yup there we go. Talking. Volken clams up at that point and steps away, gesturing for them to lead on to the back of the building and then giving a quick thumbs up to Ellari. Keep talking. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "You don't understand, you never did, you don't know what it's like to be me," he babbles. "Leave me the hell alone. Leave me..." his voice then starts to fade, withdrawing deeper into the building. The Disciples show Volken where the back door is. Well, yeah, maybe it won't be a problem. The door is old, and the knob looks... breakable. But can he crush it... quietly? 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     Ellari rolls her eyes. "You pitiful crybaby, no one understands that, for -anyone- unless you are a sorcerer like those Jedi or whatever. If you want that then maybe you should go ask one of -them- to be your friend. What is the point of all this? What do you -want-?" 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' The behemoth makes a mock gesture of putting his fingres up to where his lips would be, save for the helm. As if to say 'Shhhhhh'. Once at the back door he lays his hand upo the lock...and begins to squeeze. To be fair he -tries- to be careful. But...he's drunk. The lock wrenches and the door bucklles. There's a bit of a sharp grinding sound before Volken realizes what's happend and releases the door. "....Whoops." 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Ellari will receive no response. Probably not a good sign, but what can she do at this point? Volken will be able to look into the convent. He won't be able to see Kass, the lights are all off. But he doesn't seem to be nearby... 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' There's not much left to do but just go in. Volken listens, tryign to see if he can hear Kass and his conversation with Ellari. Eventually the whole point of subterfuge is going to just have to be dropped. The door opening was noisy to begin with and trying to ask him to sneak is like tryign to ask two drunk Dowutin to sneak around. Effectively...yeah... him trying to sneak. So he marches in, not exactly bulldozing but moving with some assurance.. At least as much as he can muster considering hsi state. <<Ellari...what's happening>> 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     "Dank farrik." Ellari mutters, and then begins attempting to quietly enter through a window by opening it slowly...     <<I'm going in>> she replies to Volken. <> 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Outside, the sound of thunder rumbling can be heard. It would probably be pouring rain soon. Volken won't be able to see much, but ahead of him he'll see some movement. A shadow slipping towards a narrow hallway... 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' <<Ooooh I love it when you're scary and violent.>> rumbles the decidedly very drunk Volken. He sees the shadow moving and starts heading in that direction. <> Priming his weapons would draw too much additional attention so he keeps them depowered - simply moving forward now in hopes off finding -someone-. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' The window creaks, but just barely. The noise it makes isn't enough to draw attention to Ellari, so that's good. As Volken approaches there's a yelp. It's the property inspector. At first he seems frightened, but when he sees that Volken's weapons are depowered, he heaves a sigh of relief and hurries towards him. He looks pale, but at least cognizant of what's going on. "You-- you have to help, please! He's got one of the Disciples--" He points up towards the attic. "Please, for light's sake. I know him, he doesn't deserve this, he's never hurt another soul in his entire life.." 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     Volken's stealth skills may be non-existent, but it seems the same can't be said of Ellari. She slips in through the window, returning it to its place afterward. <> she replies back to the giant's drunk text, then starts looking for Kasseady. 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' Volken makes a general gesture for the property manager, indicating for him to get behind him and head for the back door. He listens carefully, and then proceeds forward in search of a way up towards the attic. At this point he presumes he'll meet up with Ellari in the middle of the place ... or perhaps she may beat him to the upstairs considering the way she entered in. At his stage - there's no other option but to continue forward as carefully as possible though it's ...likely Kass knows they're already in there. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' The property inspector nods timidly and weakly and then points down the hall, where a spiral staircase leads to the upper levels of the convent. Then he backs up, slipping in a closet behind Volken, staying out of sight. As Volken makes his way towards the attic, he'll find himself on ceramic tile, and the sound of his massive boots is.. unmistakable. If Kass didn't know he was here before, he does now. Both Ellari and Volken will be able to hear some more shuffling on the upper level, and then another familiar voice calls out weakly, "Volken? Is that you? I--I'm sorry for everything I said earlier. Please --" It's the young Tholothian man, 'Crane'. The one he'd met back on Jedha... Then there's a soft thud, a groan, and the sound of a body hitting the floor. Then Kass yells over the railing. "I told you not to come in here!! If you come up here ... I'll kill him! And then I'll.. I'll burn this place to the ground!" Then they'll be able to hear the sound of a body being hurriedly dragged across the floor. 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' He's drunk...but he's not -that- drunk... And this sobers him up quickly. "Kass! This isn't The Way. We don't take hostages and use the weak to protect ourselves! Don't you want to reclaim your honor? What is all of this insanity! DId something get into your head? Come -down- here." If he sees Ellari now, he only gives her a quick glance. It seems their efforts at subterfuge was never meant to work out.. so option number two is becoming more nad more likely. Bust their way in. 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     "Then you are no Mandalorian." Ellari replies to Kass' likely empty threats. "If you continue disgracing the Way, you will -never- regain your honor. Now, come down here and tell us what you want. Fight us for it, if you must! But only a hu'tunn shields himself with the blood of innocents." 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "Stay away from me," Kass snarls, "stay -away-..." His tone is ice thin, as if it's about to snap. He seems... mentally unwell, but Volken and Ellari may be left wondering the reason for his crash out. There's more shuffling and movement coming from the attic. If they look up, they'll see that there's not really much space up there. And there's only one way up and down - the staircase. He couldn't escape - but going up there would risk the Disciple's life. 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     Ellari doesn't reply, simply folding her arms and glaring up at the attic. He can't stay there forever, now can he? "Let's just leave him up there. He'll have to come out at some point." she remarks to Volken. 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' "If he's that unhinged, don't you think he might kill one of them? Besides, that one guy up there... I can't just let him get messed up by Kass and if something does happen it'll just make it harder for us to do what we're here to do. Everyone will be blaming us.. It'd be better to just go up there or at least find out what he wants.." counters Volken to Ellari. "Th'guys obviously out of his mind. Something's snaped in him and it's probably got to do with Caine..." With that, Volken raises his voice. "Calm -down- Kass. Just tell us what you want! Is this about your Brother? About Caine? We're -trying- to find him but we can't with you acting out like this. Let the folk up there go and we'll take it from there!" 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "Get -out-," Kass growls, feral. "I told you leave me alone!!" More shuffling, and the sound of retreating footsteps. Outside, they'll hear a crack of thunder, and they may now notice that it's pouring akk dogs and tooka cats out there. The wind is howling around the sides of the building too, and if they look down, they'll notice that there's an inch or two of water on the floor. The convent was on the lower side of town -- and if any flash flooding happening, this area was going to get hit hard. Meanwhile, Cayde, Navi, Rykard, and Mondrian (F) likely on the tram back to the colony now, though the storm is terrible and the few colonists who are also on it seem afraid that the tram might not make it back to Aklyrr Bend... And Zetha's probably back at the scrapyard. If she isn't, she probably should be -- Wiis is trying to get out every single pot and pan trying to stop the leaks in the half finished roof from flooding the house! 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha is, indeed, back at the spaceport. She's had enough fun to last her a good day or two before stirring up more trouble. "Why have they not finished the roof yet? This is ridiculous..." She mutters while helping Wiis with getting pots and pans - anything that can hold water really - under the leaks. "Which also makes me wonder when they actually think they'll have everything done..." 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     "If he was planning on doing that, he would have done it already." Ellari points out. "But if he does, he'll instantly lose his leverage. What benefit does killing them bring him?" she shakes her head. "But if you go up there, he might go on a rampage. Perhaps you can stop him in time, though. If you think you can, I am not stopping you." she tells Volken. 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "It's times like this that I wish I'd been trained in Force powers that deal with weather," Navi murmurs, watching the rainfall through the tram car's windows. She's sitting beside Mondrian (F), since the taller woman had wanted company in the wake of her terribe day at the hospital. "Ordinarily I don't have a problem with storms, but this is really something else." 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' "Of course you're not stopping me. Because you're going to help me. This effects you too." counters Volken, "And desperate men don't often think logically. That's the growl of a desperate man with nowhere else to go. Killing a hostage does cause hi tim to lose his leverage but he might think it a good move just to prove he's willing to do it." That said, Volken looks around, noting the water, "We'll have to just risk it. I'll go up. Distract him. You grab the hostages." 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "Resource shortage!" Wiis shouts over the sound of water hitting the floor and the wind howling outside. "Look, it's the annual monsoon. We're likely gonna have to head up to the attic with some water and rations." Zetha probably won't be surprised by this suggestion, monsoon season happened every year on Tenoo. Sometimes it was just a little flooding, and sometimes... it was like this. But as she's probably heading to go do as Wiis as suggested, there's a loud knock on the door. "Wiis! Wiis are you home?" Mondrian (F) is staring out the window, her brows furrowed. She seems lost in thought, and worried. She barely seems to have heard what Navi said. "Hey, how much longer until we're back at the colony?" she asks. But then all of a sudden, the tram starts to slow down. If Navi looks over, she'll see Rykard coming down their train towards where she and Mondrian are sitting. "There's a downed tree on the bridge up ahead," he says, "And Kublop is in imminent danger of massive flooding," he says. He looks around for Cayde. "They're going to need help - but someone also needs to find a way to escort everyone onboard back to Aklyrr. The driver says he's not sure how long this bridge will hold up under the rain, with the tree weighing it down now." "No!" Kass shouts from somewhere up there in the dark. "I'll -- I'll do it! I'll kill him!" 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     Ellari shrugs, glancing up at the door when Kass yells again. "Fine, but if anyone gets killed, that will be on you." She motions toward the ladder. "After you. Mons." 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde glances up at his master as the elder Jedi searches for him, and the Ikkrukki may already sense him wondering why they can't just use the Force and potentially lightsabers if necessary to move the tree and remove the risk of the bridge collapsing. Was it close enough to even walk? Or do they need to wait for another transport? 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "You get up into the attic and make sure Twozee gets up there with you. I'll be up in a moment." Monsoon season is always something they know about but never seemed prepared for. And then there's someone at the door, that voice familiar and causes Zetha to pause. "What the kriff is the mayor doing here?" And sounding so panicked? Still it'd be absolutely rude to keep the man out in the pouring rain so she goes and opens the door. "Wiis is here, but we're heading up into the attic because the house is flooding...." 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' "Fine and if I win and save the hostages you have to take me out and then tell everyone in Sundari that you did.." With that, Volken steps away from Ellari and crouches down. His armor straps stretch and creak, the beskar itself seeming to struggle against him as he flexes his enormous legs - and then points his vambraces downward to trigger his repulsor gauntlets for the added boost. An instant later and he's lunging upwards straight for the ceiling -- and thus the floor of the attic above them, attempting to burst through right around where he guessed at Kass's general positon given the sound of the feet moving from earlier. 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "Then it sounds like we need to do something about that tree," Navi says, standing. "Just how big is it, and can we reach it on foot? Lightsabers might be enough to cut it into pieces, and the Force may be able to assist with moving any remaining pieces off of the bridge." 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     Ellari smirks. "Take you out? What would you like me to do it with? Blaster pistols? A rifle? Or would you prefer a beskar blade?"     Brows go up when he literally blasts through the ceiling. Overkill much? "Well I suppose that's that." she mutters. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Rykard shakes his head solemnly at Navi and Cayde. "It's a Tenoo tree," he says. "There's no way we'd be able to cut it into pieces." He glances to Navi and Cayde. "The colonists will just have to be escorted," he says, "but I just received word that a dam just north of Kublop broke. The town will be flooded soon," he says, "We're going to have to split." The man is soaked, but he isn't by himself. There's a few other Kublop citizens are with him - the property inspector's wife and child, two Disciples, and ... Thaarin??! What's he doing here. "I was on the south side of town visiting the convent. I was going to head back," the mayor said, "but there's no way I'll make it to the manor in this weather. Can we... come in?" He pauses. "There's also something you need to know," he says, and his face suddenly goes pale. There's an anguished cry from Kass, scuffling, another thump, and another soft groan. "Don't you dare come up here Volken! Don't.. don't you dare!!" Volken may notice that there's something dark and sticky dripping down out of the hole he's just made. Is it... blood? 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' "You know what I meant!" shouts Volken back at Ellari. But he's also busy exploding through the floor in order to enter the attic. And upo noting the sticky substance ....and what it could be...he sobers up even more and becomes alert rather quickly. "Enough, Kass...what've you done?!" He quickly sweeps his gaze around the attic, expecting Ellari to come up the stairs at any moment while he corners Kass. 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     Ellari indeed follows him up into the attic, immediately searching for Kass and whomever he has taken prisoner. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     [But what about the bridge] Cayde asks. How would they travel between the two settlements if the bridge collapsed? And how much farther was Aklyrr? Surely it wasn't safe to walk through a storm. Maybe they should wait in the train. 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "Pity. So I guess it's a question of who does the escorting and who goes back to Kublop Springs," Navi replies. "And it wouldn't hurt to know how much farther it is to Whatever Bend, and how we're going to get past the tree." 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "Yeah of course...please..." Zetha moves out of the way to let them all come in. "It's certainly a bit more dry than out there but..." Not by much, except that's a thought she'll keep in her head. She does allow her gaze to shift to Thaarin but just as quickly she's looking away and letting everyone shuffle inside. It's the last thing the mayor says that has her sort of pausing and looking back to him. "That /I/ should know? Well...I suppose now's a time as any to say it. Once you're settled of course." 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' The attic is... bigger than it looked from down below. And it's really dark. Volken won't be able to see much, but he will be able to smell the blood on the floor, and hear some faint scuffling near a window across from him. Outside, the window howls, and a lamppost falls over crashing in through the window across from Volken. It flickers several times before going out, but he'll be able to see a clear trail of blood leading towards where he'd heard the scuffling. Rykard is about to reply to Cayde when there's a sickening groan coming from outside. "We'll just have to figure it out," he says, maintaining his Jedi calm, "but right now, the people on this tram are in danger. If it collapses while the tram is still on it..." he shakes his head. "We're about halfway. And I don't have answers to that question. But whatever we are going to do we must decide quickly." He starts headcounting the colonists, but then stops. "Wait, where's Mondrian? She was just here..." He comments with a pensive frown. Indeed, it would seem the forensic analyst has disappeared to only light knows where. "Thank you," the mayor says, stepping aside to allow the prospector's wife and her child in first, and then following. Wiis then appears, having heard the door open, and looks displeased to see the mayor. "What! Zetha, why'd you-- I didn't say you could come in!" she grumbles at the mayor. Apparently she'd disregarded Zetha's ask earlier. The mayor then tries to soothe Wiis nerves by apologizing and asking how she'd been. Thaarin looks to Zetha. "I'm sorry for intruding," he says, "but it's your boyfriend. He was taken hostage by a Mandalorian." 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' "Kass! We don't have -time- for this. There's a storm here! This whole place is gonna get washed away! I"ve had it!" Volken sweeps his gaze over the area, searching for signs of Kass and any clue as to who the blood came from. He doesn't see the hostages yet either but all he can do is keep moving forward through the attic in search of Kass. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha winces as Wiis begins to fuss at her for letting people in. But then the Mayor and the prospector's wife are taking the moment to distract Wiis and Zetha's own attention goes to Thaarin. When he drops the bomb about Crane, she blinks, shakes her head and then stares at him for a moment. "I'm sorry. Did you say Crane has been taken hostage? When? Why?...." She actually goes a little pale in the face before shaking her head again. Not really sure what more to say about it. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     How are they going to get past the tree, indeed. That was one of the questions swirling through Cayde's mind, too. It wasn't safe out in the storm, but it wasn't safe on a train sitting on a damaged bridge either. All of this is because of the fallen tree, so Cayde doesn't understand why an -attempt- to move the tree shouldn't at least be made.     And so soon enough Mondrian (F) isn't the only one who suddenly isn't here. 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' Navi sighs quietly. "I'll take them home, then. Cayde, you can come if you..." she begins, only to notice Cayde is also missing. "Swell. I should've seen /that/ coming." "Everyone who's going to Aklyrr Bend, move to the other end of the tram and disembark. Once we find Mondrian (F) and Cayde, we'll get started," she calls to the passengers, starting toward the end of the tram nearest the tree. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' No reply. And then out of nowhere, a shot is fired out of the darkness straight at Volken. It'll land. And probably hurt, but Volken's probably wearing his beskar, so the damage isn't as bad as it could be. Thaarin sighs. "I don't know. But he's trapped in the convent." That was ... really bad news. The south side of town was the lowest part of Kublop. If any flooding happened - it was straight in the path of a mudslide. That had happened before. There had been several casualties, and that hadn't happened in years but... Rykard grumbles when Cayde suddenly vanishes. "I'll go look for Cayde," he says, "see if you can get the rest of the colonists off the tram safely. We can't stay on the bridge much longer." 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     Well Kass was going to do -something- at some point, Ellari figured. And he does, by firing at Volken. Stupid mistake, no doubt. Clearly not in his right mind.     She whips around and starts moving in the direction the blaster bolt came from at a brisk pace. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde is already outside on the bridge and attempting to reach out with the Force to determine if there are any strategic methods to actually move the tree off of the bridge without furthering damaging it and without having to simply lift it fully into the air. Everything is wet, so that means there has to be less friction and that has to count for something. 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' Oh yeah. That hurt. He's tough but not immune to pain and his armor and the enhanced durability of his body is there to help. But he still feels that. And it ticks him off. Volken brings his arm around, priming his vambraces and repulsor gauntlets and from this he fires off a powerful blast of kinetic force in the direction of where the shot came from. Ellari will have to just manage the investigation on her own though it's lileley easy to see he's been shot at. 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "Already on it, Master," Navi replies to Master Rykard. "Everyone follow me, please." In a few moments she reaches the rear door of the tram and climbs down onto the bridge. And sees Cayde, closer to the fallen tree. << Never mind looking, Master... I've found Cayde. He's already on the bridge. Now we just have to find Mondrian. >> she says to the Jedi Master telepathically. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "The convent? Oh no... no no no...in this weather that's not good." And it puts Zetha in a hard spot mentally. But she cannot, in good thought, just run out there and do anything. What is she against the power of nature? "Wait. Being a hostage means something else is happening. Do we know what happened that led to the Mandalorians taking him hostage? What's going on there?" 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Indeed. There's more scuffling, and then a shout, when Volken opens fire with a blast of kinetic force. The blast seems to have done more than just bruise Kasseady, the walls shake and a rafter is loosened. It comes crashing down and punctures the floor. Suddenly the floor under Volken groans. The floor's integrity suddenly seems... questionable. But at least Kasseady is out in the open now, limping while holding a bloodied and bruised Crane against himself, pressing a knife to his neck. There's a wild look in his blood shot eyes. "Don't come nearer!!" he screams. "D-D-Don't---!" Outside, the storm is raging, and Cayde will have a hard time discerning anything with the wind howling and the rain pouring down. He'll be able to just barely see the outline of the tree --- Rykard was right. It's massive, its radius as wide as a small house. It's partially cracked, stuck on the bridge itself. <<Thank you, Navi. I'll go to him now>> Rykard runs out of the tram, and Force leaps his way towards Cayde. <What are you doing! We don't have time to move that tree> When Navi steps out of the back of the tram, she'll suddenly be able to see the other missing person - Mondrian (F). She's on the track - but she's heading back towards Kublop?? 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Thaarin gives Zetha a sad look. "No," he says, "I think that Mandalorian has lost his mind," he says quietly. He pauses. "Please don't tell me you're thinking of doing something rash." 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Well, it's already partially cracked, so it's just a matter of pulling it apart, right? Cayde frowns and focuses on trying to pull the thing apart, and then push it off of the bridge. He doesn't respond to Rykard's calls, pouring all of his effort into it. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "What am I supposed to do? Rush in and put myself in danger as well? As much as every ounce of me wants to go help....I'm not leaving Wiis here. Not to deal with the house nearly flooding all by herself." Zetha says, and she pushes the worry and fear down a bit before shaking her head. "Aside from you being here bearing bad news, it's good to see you again." Sort of. Maybe. She might also just be playing nice. 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' "Fine." Volken lowers his arm and just stares at Kass. His own expression can't be seen due ot his helmet but his body language adjusts as if trying to comply with Kass's demands. "Look if you want to join your brother, just go join him. But you need to let this guy go. Do that and then get out of here already. I know you reached out to Caine. Just go." Someone with a sharp shooter aim might be able to do something about the knife but Volken doesn't have that, nor the necessary weapon handy. He just waits for Kass to make his next move "But you need to decide quickly before this floor gives out." 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     Ellari glares right into Kass' crazed, bloodshot eyes. "I still don't know what it is you're trying to accomplish. Behaving like a coward and dishonoring the Way only serves to draw our ire and our aggression." She doesn't even continue to threaten, but simply fires at the hand holding knife. 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' << I've also found Mondrian... she looks to already be headed back toward Kublop Springs, >> Navi sends to Master Rykard, beckoning to the other colonists to follow her. "Mondrian! If you don't mind slowing down a bit, we're coming with you!" she shouts after the frustrated officer. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' <Cayde!> Rykard calls out telepathically, once again. <You won't be able to move the tree like that. We'll have to widen the crack, so that the colonists can pass through> Cayde's attempts to move the tree with the Force don't amount to much. It's too big. He manages to break off a splinter, but that's all. Thaarin's expression softens too. "It's nice to see you again, too," he says softly, his softness and sentiment genuine. But the moment doesn't last. There's suddenly a sickening crack coming from outside, and Thaarin rushes to the window, frowning. "The dam up north," He says, "it must have broken. The mud from the hills is coming down," He says. He goes to take his jacket (which is soaked), and starts heading for the door. "Stay here," he says to Zetha. "I'm going to see what I can do about the hostages at the convent." Really??? As if he would be able to anything against a mudslide?? Kass is trembling, but the knife in his hand still presses to Crane's neck. He doesn't reply to Volken right away. Crane looks up at Volken, and manages a faint smile. "... you ... came..." Then Kass reaches forward with his other hand, in an attempt to grab Volken's shirt collar. "I - I didn't! He called my room. He called me. But I couldn't reach him in time. He didn't tell me where he was, only ... only that he needed a favor....Listen to me Volken," He says, only slightly loosening his grip on Crane. "We're so close. We're so close. We can find him. He will not leave Kublop without the clone and the clone has no means of going anywhere far. He's--" But then Ellari shoots his hand holding the knife to Crane's neck and he shouts, letting go of the Disciple and stumbling backwards. He trips, and falls through the hole Volken had made earlier. There's a horrible crashing sound, and then silence. <Stay safe, both of you> Rykard tells Navi. Mondrian's expression crumples with guilt when she sees Navi. At least she stops running. She pauses, looking around for a moment. "... where's Rykard and Cayde?" 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "They're on the bridge. They'll be along soon," Navi replies. "I think Cayde was trying to remove the fallen tree... Force only knows how. It's as big as a house." 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "And what are you going to do exactly? Tell the mud to go somewhere else?" Though what Thaarin might do - which is what Zetha would do - is try to talk sense into those at the convent because of the imminent danger. Still, she doesn't exactly tell Thaarin to stop either - as if he would listen to her. So her attention shifts over towards the other three in the house and back to Thaarin. Not sure what else to do or say except go to grab another pot to put under a newer leak. 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' "Wha--" Volken is confused. Once again. The change from kass being unwilling to talk to starting to spill so much information is startling and he's struck silent for a moment as Kass grabs him. He spares Crane a fleeting glance but is forced to stare down at Kass once again. "Listen--" he starts -- only for Ellari to act. He expected her to take the shot. He did not expect Kass to go stumbling back and ismply fall out of the building. A few swear words escape him as he stalks forward to try and peer out of the hole that the other Mandalorian fell through before he spares Crane a quick glance. "Get back towards whre Ellari is...quick." HIs words are brusque but some relief at the poor guy not having his throat slashed is evident in his heavy voice. 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     Ellari watches Kass fall with satisfaction, holstering her blasters once more. That was rather well deserved.     She was going to ask what kind of favor, but ah well. Falling through the hole would have to do well enough. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Well Cayde was already trying to widen the crack, in fact he was trying to widen it so much that the thing would split apart and fall off of the bridge. That was the hope, anyway. And it was also the hope, that Master Rykard and Navi would help him soon.... 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "...Thanks... thanks for coming," Mondrian says, turning to head back towards Kublop. "My.. ship has slave rigging on it. I've summoned her. She's a one seater, maybe two. If Rykard and Cayde catch up, they'll have to ride outside, I think. I'll have to pilot very slow anyway. I don't know if she'll make it through the storm, or if the signal will get through enough for her to make it. But I'm gonna keep heading towards Kublop anyway." There's something clearly on Mondrian's mind. Something important, that she's not telling Navi. "I don't know," he says, "but I'm not going to sit around and do nothing while there's at least two people who are about to die." He starts heading for the door, and will leave in the next few seconds if Zetha doesn't do anything to stop him. The mayor watches as Thaarin goes out and Zetha goes to grab another pot for the water leaks. "I'm sorry," he says very softly. "I've hailed the Jedi. But if they can't make it here it time... The convent is going to be completely buried in mud within the next few hours." If he looks down, he'll see Kass lying 2 floors down below. He's unconscious. The floor on the ground level is flooded and damaged, and had caved in places. The property inspector from earlier calls out to Volken. "We've got to get out of here--!" he coughs a wheezing cough. "This whole place is about to flood. But there's no way we're making it back up the incline. The dam --" he coughs again. "it must have broken." Crane nods weakly and tries to crawl back towards Ellari, but his condition is bad. He's really bloody, and can't even stand up. Cayde's attempts widen the crack, and with Rykard's help, they're able to widen it enough for the colonists to hurry through it and get onto the other side, and off the bridge. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' When the Mayor says those words, Zetha looks over to where he and Wiis are standing. Then she makes a decision. "Sorry mom. I'll be back..." And then she's running out the door and moving to catch up with Thaarin. "Well if you think YOU'RE going to play hero while I sit and wait for results... you are sorely mistaken. Don't talk me out of coming with you. Let's just go see what we can do to help..." 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "Mondrian, what's really going on here? Is this about your brother?" Navi asks gently. "Or is it something else?" 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' The thought of just leaving him there crosses his mind. Perhaps a more cutt throat Volken, back during his Canto-Bight and birthday party crashing days might have done so. But he looks too pitiful to just let drown - and he's got information they need. "Right.." he grumbles and then he looks at Ellari and gestures to Crane, "Help him..and then just get out of here..." He doesn't bother to wait to see if she'll comply or not and he just jumps down after Kass, reaching out to grasp for any sort of support structure that remains to help balance his descent as he makes a controlled drop for the man. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Even after the rest of the former train passengers scurry through to the other side off the bridge, Cayde doesn't follow them or move from the spot. Instead, he continues to attempt to concentrate all of his focus onto the parts of the tree that are already cracked onto the bridge, hoping it'll tear just enough to start falling apart and then fall off entirely. 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     Truth be told, Ellari doesn't care that much for either of them, but it would be a dishonorable thing to simply leave them there to die in such a pathetic fashion. She strides over to Crane, and hoists him up onto her shoulder, then starts heading outside. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Shockingly Thaarin doesn't try to talk Zetha out of it. He smiles at her and offers her his hand. "Then let's go," he says, "I'm certain you don't want to waste any more time, either..." And he pulls her along, heading for the convent, tugging her from awning to awning, so they don't get completely obliterated by the monsoon. Mondrian won't look at Navi. All she says is, "Yes!" And then she pushes forward, against the wind and rain, holding up her slaver remote up high, hoping her ship will find the signal. Volken will find himself in the basement of the convent. It's flooded down here, but less flooded, and less chaotic. But he will need to get Kass out of the water quick if he doesn't want Kass to drown. When Ellari goes to leave the convent, the property inspector runs to block her path to exit. "No!" he cries. "You'll never make it up the incline, and the wind is far too strong even for the jetpacks thrusters. You'll plow into a tree, and besides--" he looks at Crane. "He's off -bad-. I don't think he'd survive the elements." He looks towards where Volken had jumped down. "The safest way is through the tunnels. They were built a long time ago, back in the early days when the Republic thought it'd be better to have the tram run underground. They're probably flooded, but not nearly as flooded and muddy as out there." The wind howls violently again, and there's another sickening crack as suddenly, the windows black out, covered with mud. "We have to hurry," the property inspector whispers urgently, climbing down in the hole where Volken is. As Cayde pushes on the massive tree, there's a groaning sound, as the tree starts to split more. It's not enough, but then suddenly, a bolt of lightning comes down from the sky and strikes the tree. It explodes, and Rykard calls out, <Cayde, look out!> 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Lightning suddenly comes down from the sky to finish the job Cayde was already trying to do. Flames erupt everywhere and wood debris goes flying, but the padawan manages to dodge out of the way of some of them and whack the rest away with the Force now that he isn't trying to move a building-sized tree. Of course, now they're stranded out in a dangerous storm with no shelter. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha is actually relieved when Thaarin doesn't argue with her but she also makes a mental note that Wiis didn't cry after her either. She'll follow along with Thaarin, keeping a firm grip on his hand while running with him on their way to the convent. There's silence from her, likely while her brain tries to truly catch up with what all is going on. 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     Ellari eyes the hole where the inspector is going. "And where do the tunnels go, exactly?" she asks, not yet following him and not really believing that she can't just jetpack out of here. 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' Navi starts to run after Mondrian (F), but the sudden crack and explosion of the lightning bolt stops her in her tracks instantly. Looking back, she almost screams in horror as fire and burning debris engulfs part of the bridge! "Nooooo!" she cries, whirling to run back toward the bridge, but when the blast clears, she sees Cayde and Master Rykard standing there, unharmed, and almost faints from relief. The tram tracks are clear! Instantly she waves her arm to get the attention of the civilian colonists. "Everybody back to the tram! It might be a risky ride, but it's a lot safer than walking into a disaster area!" she calls to them, waving them back toward the tram. "A lot drier, too..." she murmurs, looking down at her wet clothes and pushing her wet twintails back off of her shoulders. 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' "I'm not a big fan of taking an underground tunnel during a flood, not knowing where we're going or with a quick way above ground. That sounds like a disaster waiting to happen. In case you haven't noticed we're weighed down with priceless armor so swimming or getting caught in a tunnel filling with water isn't an option." Volken has shoulder Kass now as he turns. He's limping as well. That earlier blaster shot wasn't an ideal outcome for a situation like this. "We need to go high, not low." 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Rykard looks relieved when Cayde manages to leap out of the way just in time. The tree falls down into the foggy abyss below - and the bridge, well, it's damaged but holding up for now. He then looks to Navi and shouts to her above the howling wind and rain, "I'm going to stay with the colonists to make sure the tram gets safely back to Aklyrr Bend," he says, "I can ease the weight of the train on the bridge until it's fully crossed over. Keep an eye on Mondrian as she heads to Kublop," he says, "take Cayde with you." There's a crease in his brow. He seems to know, even though he hadn't been in earshot when Mondrian (F) had said it had to do with her brother. Perhaps it wasn't hard to guess. He was supposed to have been on the tram too, but he hadn't been. The colonists, upon hearing Navi's instruction and Rykard's response, begin to hurry back onto the tram. "Everywhere important in Kublop," the inspector says, "The hospital, the public comms station, the general store, the power plant, the water reservoir, the pier... you get what I mean! The convent is at the bottom of the hill," he says, "we'll never make it back up! The street here is likely piled two stories deep in mud. Going high normally would be the right choice, but not here in Kublop. The tunnels were built to withstand flooding, and has a dam and drainage system all their own. The network was never fully built out because the Republic decided the project had become too expensive. But in years past, when the monsoon comes every year, a family or two managed to be rescued from the lower ends of town because of these tunnels. Now we have to hurry. I don't know how long the dam will last. It might be damaged already. This is one of the worst monsoons we've had in years..." 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' When Zetha and Thaarin exit the junkyard, they'll nearly be bowled over by the elements. Zetha will barely be able to see or breathe with all the rain and wind pummeling her. Thaarin doesn't let go of her hand, though, at least, and finally, they'll be able to just barely make out the roof of the convent from a distance. Thaarin mutters something in Cheunh. "It's already almost completely buried," he mutters. "We have to get down there, somehow." 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' If it was just them - it'd be less an issue. A monster of a Mandalorian. A skilled Mandalorian noble woman. No problem. But they have two wounded - one whom he's got to fight his instincts to just leave Kass to die - and a civilian.. Volken grimaces ..but there really is only one answer isn't it? "You all better be glad you got the Volken that's me and not the Volken that was about a year or two ago.." he grumbles. "Alright, let's move. Forward then. Fast as we can." 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     Ellari glances a Volken, still not certain about this. Should she really trust these people? It seems counterintuitive. "But if the dam breaks while we're down there...there will be no way out." she points out. "Especially since Volken is injured." 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' There's a moment taken to watch, for the heart to drop and stomach to twist. "...Are you sure we should risk it? What if we're already too late... I mean..." The convent is almost buried. If they go into that... "Thaarin I think we should go back...it's not worth risking more lives...including our own." Though she's still clinging to his hand, like he's the only lifeline she might have right now. 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' "I know." calls back Volken, "But if what he said about the mud is correct then we'd just be swept away by it trying to climb up from the outside. We'd be trying to climb up against the mud flow and water." 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "I will. Good luck, Master," Navi calls back to Master Rykard as the civilians hurry back aboard the tram. "May the Force be with you." "Cayde, come on! We need to catch up with Mondrian before her ship gets here!" she calls to Cayde, waving her arm over her head to get his attention, then jogging after Mondrian (F). 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde walks over the side of the bridge, watching as the rest of the burning trees falls down into the ravine below. Well, that was that. At least now the rest of the citizens had a better chance of getting back to safety.     As Navi begun to call him over, he turns to her and starts to follow. What was this going on with Mondrian (F)? 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' The inspector nods at Volken's words and starts after the behemoth, beginning to climb down to join him. "There's risks either way!" the inspector cries. "I can't make -you- do anything. But you are -not- taking Crane with you if you want to try flying out there. There's a small chance you might make it to the hospital, which is the most fortified building in town, but the boy will not last. Look at him!" True, he's barely conscious, and seems to barely be clinging to his life. Thaarin's scarlet eyes blaze with brazen certainty. "You can go back," he says to Zetha. "But listen to me. The possibility that you are never seeing Crane again is... high. At this rate, we're probably not even going to recover bodies. We probably are too late." He looks down at the convent again. "But it's not going to be for lack of trying. I'm going to cling to hope, even if the numbers contradict my likelihood of success." He suddenly lets go of her hand and taking out a thin grapple wire that Zetha probably never knew he carried, secures it to the only non downed lamppost nearby and starts to rappel down the mudhill. "May the Force be with you," And Rykard Force leaps away, onto the back of the tram, calling on the Force to lighten the burden of the weight of the tram on the bridge, so that the pilot can start back towards Aklyrr Bend. Mondrian (F) glances at Navi. "My ship has locked onto the slaver signal!" she shouts, "she'll be here... soon!" Cayde and Navi will be able to espy a tiny craft in the distance, making its way towards Mondrian erratically, but towards them nonetheless. 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     Ellari glances at Volken, and then back down at the hole, then at 'Crane'. She steps over to Volken and begins to dump the disciple on him. He can handle both of them, can't he? "Fine, you take him then."     And with that, she begins to activate her thrusters, aiming to take the high road. 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' Points out he's wounded in one moment. The next, she doubles his physical work load in getting out of this situation and goes on her own. Volken fumes - but there's no time to try and devote any energy towards snark or even worrying about dealing with her later. If she's going to take her chances that's her choice. "Come on! Lead the way. Hurry!" he calls out to the other man as he shoulders Crane on one shoulder and Kass on the other. "Let's go! Move!" 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha winces as Thaarin says the reality that they're facing, bringing it to life. Once he begins to repel down the mud mountain, she looks around quickly and finds a few things that she can quick mangle together to fashion a makeshift sled. After a couple breaths, she takes off down the mud mountain herself, praying she survives the fall to get to where they can help people the most. 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' Navi hurries up to Mondrian (F), slightly winded by the run. "Cayde will be along in a second or two," she says, watching the small ship approach. "So, why are you going back to Kublop Springs? Is it because of your brother? I noticed he wasn't on the tram, and he was supposed to be," she continues. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde approaches the two women as Mondrian's ship appears. He strains his gaze upward through the rain as it approaches, listening to Navi's questions and resisting the urge to simply enter her mind and find the answers himself. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' The inspector nods, and then starts to jog quickly towards a door in the back of the room that they're currently in. Once upon a time, it must have a place of peace, beauty and meditation. There's ornate, circular floor carving on the floor, and several statues in kneeling positions lining the walls. But they've all fallen down or are broken now. The inspector, coughing again, manages to tug the door open, revealing a dark tunnel ahead. There's a good couple of inches of water on the floor in the tunnel, but nothing they wouldn't be able to wade through. "Here, here!" he cries, motioning for Volken to hurry through once he's gone through himself. Crane groans softly. "...what's happening? I don't.. I don't remember anything..." As Thaarin descends the mud hill, the mud becomes slicker, and thicker, and by the time he reaches the bottom the mud is up to his shoulders, and he's barely able to keep himself from getting dogpiled by all the dirt and sludge. He just barely manages to grab onto the branch of a tree in the courtyard of the convent, but his grip on it is slipping. However, Zetha may be able to steer herself in his direction and help him up... if she gets there in time. Mondrian (F) just frowns and avoids Navi's question. "You're going to have to let me sit on your lap," she says as the ship gets nearer. "the ship is a one seater. Cayde is going to have to ride outside." Once the ship lands, Mondrian (F) doesn't waste any time. She tugs on Navi's arm. "Get in!" she rushes the Sephi girl. Ellari will find that the inspector is right. The weather is terrible, and trying to fly with her thrusters is very difficult with the wind and rain. Visibility is terrible too... 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "Wait, what?" Navi cries, blushing a little. "Geez... ordinarily I'd say to let Cayde ride inside and I'll hang on the outside... but I can see why that might be an issue. Maybe he could sit on your lap instead?" 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' "Just stay still and quiet." responds Volken to Crane, "No time to explain." No time to enjoy any of the art either. It's not likeley he'd have paid it much mind anyway. For now he just moves as quickly as he can after the Inspector whilet taking careful note of how high the water is and the sturdiness of the tunnels. Speed is of the essence here. The longer they take and the worse the storm gets the more they risk the dam giving way as they're trying ot escape. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde really wants to fly the ship himself. He doesn't get to fly ships that often. But it's not his ship, so he doesn't insist on anything, just waits for someone to make a decision about who should ride outside. 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     Ellari didn't expect it to be easy, but this was preferable to navigating tunnels she's never been through with the risk of dams breaking with no way out. She keeps the thruster power low, keeping her altitude just a few feet above the ground as she makes her way toward the port. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha's able to maneuver her makeshift sled down well enough. Though she sees Thaarin's grasp on a tree limb and shifts to slide near him so she can grab on and pull him from the muck. "Hang on..." Cause with the mud getting thick the sled's not going terribly fast but likely fast enough still. "Why do you always know what to say to put things in perspective? You're not doing this alone, Thaarin...I won't let you." 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "Are you kriffing kidding me?! -I'm- piloting. And I'm not sitting on his lap. Now get in! There's no time to argue about this!" She then looks to Cayde. "Get on the wing. I hope you know how to handle yourself." "... thank you," he whispers. There's a pause. "You're... limping. Why are you doing this?" The inspector continues to hurry ahead of them, taking a left once they get to an intersection. "Quick!" he cries, "there's not much time! But the hospital isn't far." As Ellari is attempting to make her way up the hill and towards the port, she might espy Zetha and Thaarin trying to get down to the convent. But she'll soon have other things to worry about. All of a sudden, someone is shooting at her. Someone above her, someone on one of the rooftops! Thaarin doesn't reply right away, he's about to drown in the mud. But as soon as Zetha pulls him up, he's able to stand up on the tree branch and pull Zetha onto it with him. Her mud sled slides away and disappears from sight, but at least they're out of the mud... for now. They do have to stand body to body though -- the branch isn't very wide or long. "Thank you," he says. "But now we have to get onto the roof --" However he's suddenly distracted by the shooting that's suddenly happening in the midst of this storm. "By the light...!" 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' Navi sighs irritably. "Sorry, Cayde... I tried," she says apologetically, climbing into the pilot's seat, and hoping the upholstery is waterproof... she's soaked from being out in the rain for so long. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde pouts slightly, disappointed at not getting to pilot, but he climbs onto the wing anyway. Though it is a bit surprising that Navi had suggested he pilot. She usually didn't want to give him the chance to do that kind of thing. 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' "I got shot and I'm carrying two full grown bodies by myself." remarks Volken, "Now stay quiet, alright??" This isn't time for twenty questions. Volken continues moving along, carrying foolish noble and disciple. One on each shoulder. He's got to conserve his strength, especially if things go wrong. Collapse later. Run now. 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     A couple of shots glance off of Ellari's armor, but a few more manage to hit her in the seams. She winces in pain at the blaster burns and curses in Mando'a under her breath, then twists around to face the direction the bolts came from. Her visor scans through the rain and hones in on a figure on a rooftop, and she fires straight back at it. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' At least Zetha's got decent balance and pressing herself against Thaarin so they're not about to fall off the branch. She nods her head to him and then looks to the roof and around when he mentions having to manage to get to the roof. Though before she can really get her thoughts straight those shots are heard from the roof of the convent and she tries to see if she can spot who's firing. "The kriff is going on now?!" 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Well, there -is- no upholstery, the seat is metal. Which is good, but also... uncomfortable. Especially when Mondrian sit down on Navi's lap. Her body is warm, at least. And she doesn't waste any time getting the ship into the air. Soon they're off towards Kublop - Cayde will have to utilize every inch of the Force to stay on - the wind is really doing a number on literally everything in its path! Crane obeys and doesn't say anything else after that, but reaches out weakly with one hand touches Volken on the neck almost affectionately. Ellari's shot knocks her assailant flat. The wind and rain won't help with visibility, but for a few seconds the Mandalorian woman may be deceived into thinking she'd taken care of whoever it was... no more shooting, and it's too rainy and dark to tell if they're still around or not. But then she'll notice a red and grey canister tumbling off the side of the rooftop where her assailant once had been. She won't be able to make out the logo on it, but the colors are telltale. Rhydonium. "Nevermind that," Thaarin says, shaking his head, "we're running out of time." He pushes some of the tree branches down to make a bridge onto the roof of the convent and helps Zetha across onto it, before crossing himself. That's when the explosion happens. It's earth shaking and earpiercing and probably nothing like Zetha has ever heard or experienced before. And Ellari? Hopefully she's thrown herself to the ground in time to avoid getting blasted to kingdom come. Down below, the ceiling shakes, and there's a horrible cracking sound. And then its raining rocks. Volken is going to have to try to find cover nearby, otherwise they're all getting pancaked. 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' Navi winces as she's suddenly, literally, pressed into the dual role of passenger and seat cushion! "This is more awkward than you know, Mondrian..." she says, blushing faintly. "I hope Cayde is okay..." 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' "Hey! This aint a first date kid. Keep your hands where I can see 'em!" Volken's got time for jokes apparently. "How much further?!" he yells at the Inspector. 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     Ellari doesn't stick around to see if her attacker is going to get back up again. As soon as he's down, she turns away again and starts flying back toward the port. Unfortunately that meant she didn't even see the barrel falling. The blast knocks her out of the air, and she goes sprawling down into the mudslide below. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde holds onto the wing of the ship as hard as he can, calling on the Force to help offset the pull of gravity and the wind. But then there's an explosion below, and the noise and shockwave distracted him for a second too long. The padawan loses his grip, and begins to plummet through the rain. He reaches out with the Force though, attempting to slow his fall so that he at least won't get splattered... 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha tries to help Thaarin as best she can, be it with balancing or trying to pull branches down into that makeshift bridge. Then there's an explosion and shaking and her ears ring like they're bursting from the insdie out. Her immediate knee-jerking response is to let go of branch and Thaarin both to hold her hands over her ears and crouch down but that's likely not the best action when trying to balance on a tree branch while also climbing across a branch bridge. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Mondrian (F) says softly. "I'm sorry," she says, "I hope I'm not hurting you." They're flying along at a pretty quick pace, hence Navi's remark, probably. "I hope so too. He's probably fine. Probably -- " And then there's the sound of the explosion, and the ship jilts as Cayde falls off. "Shit!" Mondrian says. She nosedives the ship to go after Cayde, shifting in the pilot chair uncomfortably. Navi's thigh may be pinched. "Sorry," Crane says. "Sorry--" he jerks his hand away suddenly. Volken won't get a response from the inspector. Up ahead, all he'll be able to see is collapsing rock, and then suddenly there's the sound of rushing water. The dam. It must have broken. Ellari will likely faceplant into the mud covering the street below her. Minutes later, a figure has dragged himself out into the street, limping badly, helmet shattered, armor torn. His left arm dangles uselessly at his side, but his right fist is balled as he approaches Ellari. But first, he'll try to kick her gun out of her hand. When the explosion happens Thaarin leaps forward onto the roof and slams Zetha down onto the rooftop. They'll avoid the brunt of the blast, as they're lying down on the roof and not too close to the rhydonium. But Zetha will feel a wave of heat pass over her, and her skull might hit the metal rooftop. "Zetha!" Thaarin says, "are you alright?!" 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha feels her skull thud against the metal rooftop just as she feels that wave of heat passing over her. Not to mention the pressue of Thaarin's body against her from slamming her against the rooftop. She seems like she's about to say something but no sound comes from her lips and she winces as she tries to move. Violet eyes shift to meet Thaarin's red gaze and all she manages is a weak shake of her head to try and say she is not alright. 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' Great. There's literally not much he can do other than to keep moving forward and hope that they'll find what they need in just a few short steps. Out running rushing water is out of the question but if it's near, and they have their head start, they may yet make this. Volken lifts one of his arms as much as he can without dropping either Crane or Kass, and he begins priming his repulsor gauntlets. He might be able to collapse part of the tunnel behind them if the water begins rushing towards them but he needs to wait.. There's always the risk of bringing everything down on their heads. "I said how much further!? We're out of time!" 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "Not really," Navi replies, still blushing faintly, her voice slightly strained from being used as a seat cushion. "But do you remember how I asked you to dance once, months ago?" She winces at the explosion, and the buffeting of the ship from the blast wave. There's a blur of cloth past the side viewport, and she almost lunges against it, staring wide-eyed. "Cayde, nooo!" she cries, only to be crushed against the seat as Mondrian (F) nosedives after Cayde. Her right thigh in particular is pressed right up against the side of the cockpit, hard enough that she gets that pins-and-needles sensation down her leg... 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     Ellari's head is reeling from the explosion, and it takes her a few moments to get her bearings again--just in time to see a ragged figure approaching her, useless arm dangling at his side.     "You dini'la--!" she growls as he attempts to kick her rifle away. Instead, her arm curls away from his foot and she rolls to the side, drawing one of her pistols and firing at him. With that busted helmet, she goes straight for the head. She doesn't care who he is. He attacked her and is hell-bent on killing her for some reason, in spite of the raging storm. Clearly a madman this galaxy could do better without. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Through the blinding rain, it may be difficult if not impossible to spot Cayde, as he's fallen through some trees. Fortunately, they helped break his fall so that the Force didn't have to do as much work as it may have had to otherwise. Still, that didn't mean it didn't hurt...especially since he happened to land with one of his hands twisted awkwardly under his body. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Still, no response from the inspector. In fact, Volken won't even be able to see him anymore? The rocks finally stop falling, but Volken will see that the tunnel is blocked off now, on both ends. And water's leaking in. Very slowly, but leaking in, nonetheless. He could try blasting through, but that might cause another cave that might crush them all. Volken will feel Crane wiggling free, onto the ground. He can't walk, but he's hastily crawling towards something or someone on the ground? Oh no, it's the inspector. He's lying on the ground, bloodied. "By the gods, he's... he's not responding. He's dying. Volken, what do we do? What's happening? How did we get here..." Crane says desperate, the panic in his voice evident. Mondrian takes them down immediately, landing next to Cayde and rushing out of the ship as soon as they land. "Cayde, by the light, are you okay? Let me look at you," She looks to Navi, desperation and fear in her voice. "You need to go find out what that explosion was. Kublop isn't far. Please..." Thaarin's expression becomes grieved. "I shouldn't have let you come with me," He says softly, touching her cheek gently. "Stay up here," he says, "I'm going in." He picks up a nearby rock, heads for the nearest sky light, shatters it, and then slowly lowers himself in. Ellari's first shot grazes the non shattered side of his helmet, but the other sears the left side of his temple, blackening the whole side of his head. The third hits his shoulder, and he cries out in pain, but is relentless. "Don't kriff around with my sister!" he screams, raging. "Don't you touch her!" Then he aims at the fuel tank of her jet thrusters, and fires twice, in an attempt to ignite them. 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     "I don't know who the hell your sister is! I don't even know who -you- are!" Ellari shouts. The bolts strike the fuel tank, and a leak immediately starts. She scrambles to her feet and immediately disengages the maglocks, before throwing the entire assembly straight at him, aiming to give him a taste of his own medicine.     "All I know is that you're messing with the -wrong- Mandalorian." she growls. 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "All right..." Navi groans, levering herself out of the pilot's seat, her right leg feeling stiff and sluggish, at least for the moment as she makes her way to Cayde's side. "I just need to take care of something first..." Laying her hands on Cayde's shoulders, she reaches deep into the Force within him, tweaking its flow and redirecting its energies to knit injuries, take away pain, and heal Cayde's wounds, if there are any. "That should do it. Take good care of Cayde." Rising, she sways on her feet for a moment, between her leg and a moment of weariness, then starts off toward where she'd seen the explosion, limping briefly before her leg began to feel more normal, at which point her gait becomes a more normal jog. 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' "There's a bad storm happening. A dam may have broke and so we might have water rushing in towards us from...behind I think. We can't go backwards. We need to get through here. We'll suffocate if we just stay here. Or the water will get through or the tunnel will just collapse anyway." Volken pauses to look over the inspector. He could carry the weight of three people but he's only got ...well two arms. And with the Inspector in the condition he's in they certainly don't have too many options here. "I'm gonna need to try and burst through. If youg ot some sorcery handy and are strong enough to use it, now's the time." With that, he sets Kass down and steps forward to inspect the fallen rocks on the way forward, attempting to sus out the best places for him to start to punch through without bringing the rest of the wall ontop of them all. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde gets to his feet, grimacing in pain although he does his best to hide it. But he's holding his left hand with his right, and the two women will see that his wrist is broken. Although he still nods when Mondrian asks if he's all right.     Fortunately, Navi is able to actually make that true. But as soon as that's done, he immediately hurries after Navi in the direction the explosion had been heard. He can take care of himself, thank you! 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Thankfully, Navi will be able to make it to Kublop uneventfully (well, aside from all the wind and rain). Mondrian (F) had been close in tow, but by the time she's reached the central plaza, she'll have lost track of both of them. Perhaps it had been intentionally on Mondrian's (F) part, and Cayde, well, he had a habit of disappearing at the wrong place, wrong time. Nonetheless, her comm crackles to life, and she'll find herself being hailed by Thaarin. The signal's patchy, but she'll be able to at least hear a bit of what he's saying. "<--Did you hear? *static* Rykard? There's a *static* near the convent. *static* They're trapped. It's buried..>" Meanwhile, Jorn is probably sheltering somewhere, watching the rain pour down and listening to the wind howl. He might have heard a thing or two about the annual monsoons on Tenoo, and noticed the weather reports streaming in at the local cantinas. He might also be wondering where his tentatives allies are. Or he might not be. Regardless, wherever he is and whatever it is he's thinking about, will be interrupted by the sound of aggressive banging. "Jorn. Jorn! Haar'chak! What are you doing? It's me, Er'gi." 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' Navi taps her earpiece, pausing to get her bearings before heading in the general direction of the convent. << Thaarin? It's Navi! Please repeat your message? Also, did you hear an explosion? There may have been one close to you! >> she broadcasts. 

:'''{{#var:418|Jorn (418)}} has posed:''' Jorn's eyes narrow under helm as he hears the voice. It's not until he receives confirmation from the cameras that this is indeed Vol's brother in arms. The door whever he shelted. "What are you doing out like that?" he asks thinking there probably has to be a reason for it. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha isn't going anywhere. At least not for the foreseeable future and while Thaarin regrets choices and goes to try and find people. Zetha may die, but it's a sacrifice she's apparently willing to make. Unwillingly. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "<Oh thank the light!>" There's a lot more static, and Navi won't catch any of what Thaarin says next, but then there's, "--alright. Zetha's on the roof of the convent. *static* --get past all of it. I'm heading to the general store>" "What are -you- doing in here, sitting on your ass, you di'kut!" the other Mandalorian roars. "You didn't hear? Volken and Ellari are trapped in the basement of the convent and it's almost completely buried in mud." "Kass fled to the convent and took a couple of civilians hostage there. They went in after him, but then the storm started up..." Moments later, Zetha will see Thaarin coming out of the skylight he'd broken earlier. He's shaking his head. "There's no way down," he says, "we have to hope they made it to the tunnels below. Come. We can access them from the general store down the street." The problem is, the street down below is not traversable. They'd have to make their way across rooftops, but some of the leaps from building to building are... ambitious. 

:'''{{#var:418|Jorn (418)}} has posed:''' That's when Jorn will start to head off. He'll grab one of the communicators, none of his own. Taking a few messages to Volken and Ellari. Simple messages that read, "Status." And then he waits for guidance by Volken's friend. "Lead the way," as Jorn does not know the way. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' There's slowly sitting up that happens, and Zetha rubs the back of her head. She's likely going to be feeling that one for a couple days now. As she sees Thaarin coming back from where he came there's the lofting of an eyebrow and then she shifts to try and stand up. "You mean the street that we can travel across? How do you propose we get anywhere from where we are now? We're lucky we're even HERE at the moment." She looks around once again and then sighs. "This is the worst I've ever seen it..." 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' << On the /roof of the convent/? What is she doing on the roof? Is the flooding that bad? >> Navi asks over the comms, picking up her pace. Soon she finds some high ground overlooking the convent. << Okay, now I see why you're up there. I'm going to find some transportation and a rope ladder. Some way to get you two off of that roof! I'll be back as quick as I can! >> She hurries deeper into Kublop Springs. "I need something with some passenger space and repulsorlifts... at this point I'd even deal with that grumpy Bothan!" 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "I doubt they'll get your messages," Er'gi grunts, following Jorn out. He'll then easily overtake him, and lead the way out in the rain and wind. It's terrible, and Jorn will have a hard time just staying on his feet! But at least Er'gi is hard to miss, and if he walks right behind him, some of the wind and rain will be blocked by his massive form. The two Mandalorians then start heading for the convent. "<The convent is buried>" Thaarin tells Navi. "<Thank you, but please hurry>" Navi will find herself running past the pier. Most of the boats are completely mired in the mud and water, but there's one small hoverboat not 100 percent buried yet, and it has a coil of rope and an anchor stored aboard it. But Navi will have to Force leap her way to it - most of the pier is flooded! "We are lucky," Thaarin says, sitting down on the roof next to Zetha. "Navi's coming. She's going to try to find some rope and something with a repulsorlift. If things go favorably for her, we'll be able to make it to the general store." 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' Navi makes her way past the river pier as she heads toward the center of town. Just by chance she spots a hoverboat that isn't flooded or buried completely. << Thaarin, I found a hoverboat that looks intact. I'm going to see if I can reach you from the water, >> she says over the comms. One look at the pier almost changes her mind, however; it's mostly flooded and swaying back and forth from the current. "The pilings look intact... and steady. I guess I just found my way across!" She makes her way to the hoverboat with several impressive, borderline superhuman leaps, eventually landing on the boat's rear passenger deck. Fortunately, the controls at the helm console are clearly labeled. A little work with the control console gets the drain pump working, to get any standing water out of the boat. "Okay... still has power. Now let's get the engine running and see if we're in business," she muses. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "Remind me to thank her later..." Zetha says before sloughing some of the water off her arms - as if that's going to help anything. "I just hope everyone is okay. The aftermath will likely be a kriffing nightmare though.." Dealing with the damage, which means likely helping around town doing repairs and the like. Making sure people are alive - at the least - and recover okay. She looks over to Thaarin after a moment. "Doesn't exactly make for the best reunion, does it?" 

:'''{{#var:418|Jorn (418)}} has posed:''' Jorn tries to figure out where to go from his current location to the general area of where the others are. His attention focused on getting there. He knows it'll be like trying to find a piece of plasteel burried in the sands of Tatooine. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "<You did? Perfect!> Thaarin's brows shoot up in relieved surprise, and he looks over at Zetha. "We're in luck. She found a working hoverboat... hopefully she'll be here soon," he says. Thaarin just smiles reassuringly at her and reaches for her hand. "Better than nothing. It's going to be alright," he says soothingly. Navi -is- in luck, it would appear, the Force is shining upon her today. The hoverboat hums to life, and drain pump starts pumping all the excess water out of it. However, it is still a little bit mired, and struggling to free itself from the runny mud below it. A little help from the Force would get it out, and Navi on her way. Er'gi presses on, leading the way. Soon, the convent is in sight, but it's not a welcome one - Er'gi had been right. The entire thing except the roof is buried. "Har'chaak! There's no way we're getting that way..." A gust of wind then nearly blows them both off their feet. "Ehh. Quick, up here," Er'gi says to Jorn, making his way over to a building with a ladder on the side. "I need a minute to think, and if we stay down there we'll be swallowed by the mud in no time." 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha lets Thaarin take her hand and she smiles at him as he speaks reassurances. "I really hope you're right, Thaarin..." She offers this much while shifting to pull her knees into her chest, wrapping her other arm around her legs. Trying very hard to not show she's as worried as she is. Fearful of a lot of things. Confused by a couple. 

:'''{{#var:418|Jorn (418)}} has posed:''' Jorn checks over his person thinking of maybe some kind of cable line. Something that could act as a grapple line. That could be a way to get to the top of the building. Try to avoid all of the mud that would drag him down to the bottom. That's at least where his head is at. 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' Navi gives a little whoop of joy as the power comes up and the repulsorlift engine hums to life. The hoverboat wallows slightly, but doesn't move, and she discovers that the sucking mud is miring the boat in place. "Let's hope this works..." she murmurs, reaching deep inside herself and beginning to call upon the Force, tweaking its flow between the water, the mud, the land, and herself... The hoverboar comes free with a sudden surge that almost spills her into the bottom of the boat with a squeal of fright. Once she recovers from the shock, she lets out a louder whoop of joy and turns the hoverboat toward the convent. << Thaarin! I'm headed your way now! I should be there in a minute or two! >> 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Thaarin doesn't reply to Zetha, but less than a second later, hope glimmers in his eyes. "I can see Navi,"he says, standing, "she's coming." Er'gi is halfway up the building when he, too, spots Navi coming towards the convent from a distance away. "Jorn! Wayii! Someone's coming in a hoverboat." He points at Navi approaching the hoverboat. "We may be saved. Let's see if she can get us somewhere more helpful than here." He then climbs back down, and hurries towards the young Sephi girl, glancing briefly back at Jorn to beckon him to follow. Navi will find herself quickly within sight of the convent, and will just barely be able to see Thaarin standing on top of it, waving at her. The rain has let up a tiny bit, though the wind will make steering the hoverboat a bit difficult. She'll also be able to see Er'gi trying to make his way towards her, nearly getting sucked down by the mud with every step he takes. 

:'''{{#var:418|Jorn (418)}} has posed:''' "Got room for more?" he asks about the hoverboat and Navi. The attention focused on the bare trying to see how many it could fit. What they would need to do to help stay afloat, if anything. His attention just going between the craft and various thoguhts. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "Good..." Zetha offers, shifting to try and stand up again. Against the wind, she's at least thankful that the rain has let up some. It's still not going to bode well for the aftermath but in the moment it's at least a little glimmer of something good on the horizon. 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "Ahoy, on the shore!" Navi calls back to Jorn, recognizing him from the lightsaber lesson. "Yes, we have room! Actually might need your help to save two friends, so if you can jetpack this far, come on! Just be careful not to land too hard in this wind!" She guides the hoverboat in as close to the shore as she dares, turning out just a bit if she feels the hull coming up against mud on the left side, which is the side facing Jorn. << Thaarin? I'm picking up some help! We should be on to assist you two in just another minute! >> 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "Yes, thank you!" Er'gi says to Navi. "Ah.. Co Deputy Valrennan. I know I haven't always seen eye to eye with the Republic, but your help is most appreciated. Our vod Volken and our other ally, Ellari, is trapped below the convent. We're trying to find a way to them... we Mandalorians are tough, but this weather would wear anyone down." He steps aboard the hoverboat, and it creaks under his weight but doesn't topple. He then steps aside to allow Jorn aboard. Thaarin frowns when Navi says she's picking up help. "<Right. See you soon>" He turns to Zetha. "I have a feeling we're going to have be working alongside the Mandalorians. I don't know anyone else who would be crazy enough to be out and about in this weather..." Meanwhile, down below, Crane nods weakly at Volken, and the other Mandalorian will commence his search for a weak point somewhere in the wall of rocks surrounding them. Crane will do his best to take Volken's advice. He reaches out into the Force, trying to either contact either Navi or Cayde... 

:'''{{#var:418|Jorn (418)}} has posed:''' Jorn will do what is necesary. Just a simpel back pack motion over to the waiting barge. His attention focused on just making it on board. "What he said. We need help assisting our allies," Jorn doesn't want to call them friends. They really haven't had that conversation. Allies feels like an appropriate term. "How bad is it?" he figures that Navi has a better sense of things. That would be an inisght Jorn doesn't have at the moment. 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' "Just...stand back.." Volken sets Kass down, flopping him against one of the walls near the Inspector whom he then leans over to make sure he's not laying face down in a pool of rising water. He utters a few choice words in Man'doa under his breath, muffled even more by his helmet, and then leans in to take a closer look at the rocks. HIs gauntled hands reach out to test the sturdiness of the collapsed stone.. Pushing here, pushing there nad then...eventually he finds what he's looking for. Or so he hopes. "Just....stay clear." he tells Crane before bracing himself. He then hauls back, calling to him every ounce of his genetically modified strength... and he swings, plowing his enormous fist forward for the stone and, hopefully, freedom. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha shakes her head. "I haven't known much of anything since my last run in with Jasper...which turned into a catastrophe...next thing I know the monsoons here and you're coming telling me Crane was taken hostage." She pauses. "I don't know if you've heard about what happened at the clinic...but not a lot of it was good." 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "Welcome aboard, Jorn, Er'gi. I wish I could tell you more," Navi replies, guiding the hoverboat a little farther from shore and into the navigation channel, moving toward the convent. "The convent looks like it's been buried under a mudslide, or almost, and Thaarin and Zetha are stranded on the roof. If anyone else is in there, I don't know where they are." She steers closer to shore as they approach the convent. "If I get us any closer, we're likely to run aground. Jorn, can you carry another person while using that jetpack of yours?" she asks. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Er'gi nods. "We'll help you," he says to Navi. "I'm sure Volken is among those you're looking for." Rocks start to crumble beneath Volken's massive strength. He'll be able to feel them raining down upon his head and shoulders, but nothing so massive that he can't ignore. The cave isn't collapsing, at least. He'll start to make good progress - but as he continues punching he'll see that this wall of rock barricading them in is deeper than it looks. "I heard of it," Thaarin says solemnly. "Things will get better, I'm sure. We'll make it through this. Look, Navi's here," He says, gesturing towards the young Sephi girl piloting the hoverboat nearer to them. "I'm going to jump. If you don't feel you can make it --" his lips press into a thin line, as he watches Navi address Jorn. He can't really hear what they're saying, but it isn't hard to guess. He doesn't really like the idea of Jorn helping her, but they don't have a lot of options at the moment. He then takes the leap, landing on the starboard of the hoverboat. It rocks, but doesn't topple. Meanwhile, when Ellari throws her jetpack at her armored attacker, his arms go in front of his face and it clips his elbow. There's less than a second before the jetpack explodes into sparks and shrapnel... 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     Ellari does her best to jump away from the thrusters when she throws them, but the shockwave still knocks her over. Hopefully, it knocked -him- harder, though. Still, it takes her a moment to gather her wits and get back up, drawing both of her blaster pistols this time. However, she doesn't try to run. This man was clearly a maniac, and if he wasn't unconscious or dead, he was sure to be after her again.     Besides, a Mandalorian never runs from a fight. 

:'''{{#var:418|Jorn (418)}} has posed:''' "If they hold on tight," he says openly. It may tkae a little bit of effort. It's harder than it looks to adapt to a second party with a backpack like that. Not impossible. Just harder than most realize. "Who do I need to haul?" he asks openly. Jorn knows that any mando help may not be welcomed with open arms. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde had been following Navi toward the convent, but had lost her in the blinding rain. And many of the buildings were almost wrecked beyond recognition. So he's left with reaching through the Force in search of anyone around town who might need assistance... 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' No, no, this won't do. There's some success here, but not enough. He can do better. He has to if they're to get out of here faster. "Mm.." rumbles Volken before gathering his zeal up once again and this time bracing his enormous frame against the ground. He waits, as if building up momentum from some internal engine that he's firing up more and more ... and then he lunges forward, lowering his shoulders and attempting now a tremendous crash to try and plow forward through what remains of the collapsed boulders before him. 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' Navi has to grab onto the controls as the boat rocks under Thaarin's landing. "Well, okay... that's one safe aboard. Jorn, do you think you could get Zetha? She shouldn't be any heavier than me," she says. "Thaarin, if you feel up to it, could you take the helm? I know you're a better driver than me." 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha would normally attempt to make the jump. She's agile - kinda has to be - because of how she tends to work on things in the junkyard. However, her throbbing head has her listening to reason and she looks at the craft and then to the Mandalorian being spoken to. "I'll take the help if you can manage... I don't think I can make that jump right now..." 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' When Ellari gains her wits, she'll find herself waist deep in mud. The rain might have let up a little, but the wind hasn't, and the muddy waters are still rising. The man who had been attacking her is nowhere in her immediately line of sight, but that didn't necessarily mean he was dead, or unconscious... Thaarin looks up at Zetha, nodding at Navi's comment and suggestion. He then moves towards the helm of the hoverboat. The explosion from Ellari's jetpack can be heard from where they're standing, although the noise is muted. "We'd better hurry," Thaarin says to Jorn gravely. "Get her, carefully. And then let's head to the general store. The tunnels are accessible from there." Cayde will be able to detect Crane's presence, deep underground. The tunnel network below Kublop! He must have been down there. But getting down there might be hard. More rocks rain down on Volken. But his tremendous crash makes significant progress. He'll be able to tell he's crossed some kind of threshold. It wouldn't be much more after this - he'll be able to see dim streaks of light leaking through the rock barricade. But just as he's about to finish up, he'll heard the disciple calling his name out weakly. "Volken.... Volken! Please..." 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde frowns, focusing on Amarik's presence and attempting to discern more about his location and situation. Why was he down there, wouldn't it be flooded? Was he alone, was he injured? 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "Wait a sec... Thaarin, what are these tunnels, and why do we need to go there?" Navi asks Thaarin. "Are there other sentients trapped in them or something like that?" 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     Ellari curses and fires raises one of her pistols, firing a grappling line attached to it toward the top of the building the rhydonium had been thrown off of. Perhaps she'd be able to find out more about who was so hell-bent on killing her and what 'sister' this was. 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' "We're almost out!" calls Volken, seeing the way to freedom ahead of them. He turns around, looking back through the dust and the tunnel to look for Crane, Kass and the Inspector. "Come on! Hold it together!" 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Once on the hoverboat, Zetha finds a spot and sits. "Thank you." She offers this to Jorn before giving a smile to Navi. "Not that this is the best time ever but it's really good to see you, Navi." Offering at least that much before hugging her knees again and resting her forehead against her lap. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Cayde won't be able to find out much, it would appear that Amarik is concussed, very injured, and rather hazy on what was happening, where he was, or what had happened to him. Volken was with him, and another unconscious Mandalorian whose name he didn't know. Somehow, where he is, isn't completely flooded. There's a few inches of water on the ground, but the place isn't submerged. Thaarin looks relieved once Zetha reaches the hoverboat. "Are you alright?" he asks. Then, to Navi, he says, "There's a tunnel network below Kublop. It was an old Republic project that was abandoned, an attempt to build the tram system below ground. However, it became too expensive due to the fact that dams and extensive drainage systems had to be built in order to sustain the railway in case of the annual weather event that often caused massive flooding. In recent years, the citizens of Kublop use it for evacuation in times like these. I think the inspector and Zetha's boyfriend, Crane, are down there, with two other Mandalorians. Well..." he trails off. "If they're alive. That's where they would be." "Then let's not waste another moment," Er'gi says, "we should head to the general store immediately." The mud will suck at Ellari as she pulls herself up. The visibility up higher isn't very good, and the man who had been attacking her still is nowhere to be seen. But then suddenly, on a building with a higher rooftop, she'll hear some movement, above the din of the howling rain. Kass seems fine. Still passed out, but still pretty much in the same condition he'd found him in. The disciple and the inspector, however...are a different story. The rocks that had been falling earlier must have been falling down over where they had been too, and the disciple is lying on the ground in a pool of his own blood, two new gashes on his shoulder and neck. The inspector isn't breathing. "He's...dead," the disciple says of the inspector. There's a pause, as he gathers the strength to speak. He's in really bad shape, probably dying. But he's still conscious, somehow, so maybe there's hope yet. "I want...you to save yourself. And your friend," he says. "And I wanted to say thank you..." he weakly reaches up and presses something into the palm of Volken's hand. It's a soggy white flower. "And good bye." The mammoth Mandalorian will be faced with a choice, now. He could do as the disciple instructed, and continue punching the rocks, and be in the clear in less than ten minutes. He and Kass, with their beskar, would be able to handle the falling rocks just fine. But the disciple, injured and helpless, would be crushed and killed in the process. He could stop. And wait, and pray, and hope, that someone would find them in time. Or... he could give the disciple some of his beskar. But that went against every Mandalorian tradition and way ingrained into him as a child. Not to mention that the falling rocks would then hurt -him-. They wouldn't kill him, but it would certainly hurt. 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' Of course that might happen. The fact that the falling rocks might cascade backwards hadn't even crossed his mind. They didn't call out right away so he figured everything was fine. He would have stopped but it's too late now. There's no time for regrets or for second guessing. Even if the Insepctor might be dead he's still not leaving the body here. As for Crane? Volken's never been one for tradition. He immediately pulls his helmet off and then promptly slumps it down over Cranes head.. "Shut up." As quickly as possible he starts to unstrap his torso armor, his massive physique seemingly enlarging as he does, as if the beskar does more work holding him in then it does protecting him. "You're going to live." Volken -left- Mandalore because of feuds and politics and traditions that led to his foster fathers death. Lived the life of a mercenary vababond for years. Refused to return home. Was seen as a dog by the pure blooded ones. Tradition be damned. He hurridly works to strap the armor onto Crane, taking care as much as possible to avoid exaggerating the wounds... and then proceeds to reach down to sling Kass over one shoulder, scope Crane up under one arm and The Inspector under the other. "We're leaving." 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde sighs. Why was it always like this? Amarik certainly wasn't the sort who couldn't defend himself, so how exactly had he landed himself in this situation? Anyway, he just keeps trying to focus harder on the Tholothian's presence, and make his way toward it, Force leaping his way across rocks, buildings, and other objects to get over the mud. He has no idea where any entrances into the underground are and can only hope he can find a way down there. 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     Apparently Ellari's attacker has decided not to keep attacking just yet, But now she's stranded without her jetpack. However, this rooftop seems to be not overwhelmed by mud just yet. She heard the noise, so she gets behind cover, in case he tries to renew his hostilities. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha shakes her head gently but then contradicts it with "I'm fine." A pause. "I'll be fine. I've hurt myself worse. Let's just get to the tunnels so we can find the ones from the convent." Not that she's going to go into any further details than that, and her words are likely a bit muffled since she's talking mostly to her lap. 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "I'm not going to stand in the way of saving lives. Find us a good, solid spot to tie up the boat, away from the mud, and let's head for the general store," Navi replies to Thaaren. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "Wh--What are you doing..." Crane protests weakly. "You'll--" But then Volken's helmet goes over his head. If it weren't for their grave circumstances, Volken might find it humorous how tiny the disciple is compared to his beskar. The helmet alone covers both his head and shoulders and the chestplate reaches to his knees. Now, there was just one last thing to do now - give the rocks he'd been pounding a few solid kicks, and then they'd be through. Cayde will eventually find himself where the others are headed - the general store. He'll espy Thaarin piloting the hoverboat, carrying Zetha, Navi, Jorn, and Er'gi. Thaarin is doing as Navi had instructed and piloting it towards an area close to the general store that had something sturdy enough to moor a hoverboat to. Meanwhile, no shots will be fired at Ellari, but a massive pile of debris out of nowhere comes crashing down towards her! 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde wonders why they are headed there but maybe there is something he needs to help with. He leaps over toward the store, looking for a way down into the tunnels. Amarik and Volken had to be down there. It then occurs to him to wonder why Amarik is with Volken and injured, but not yet dead. 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' Navi climbs onto the bow of the hoverboat, rope in hand, as the vessel approaches the general store. Half-kneeling there, she ties one end of the rope to a mooring cleat and holds the other ready. "Bring her in nice and steady! Eyes on the terrain, not my bum!" she calls back to Thaarin. The moment the hoverboat comes to a stop, she scrambles down from the bow and secures the vessel to a stoutly-built light pole. "Everybody out! Let's go find those Mandalorians!" 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha looks up when the boat comes to a stop and then stands up with a bit of a wobble to her stance before walking forward to get off the boat. She'll stay in the back of the group to try and be out of the way. Sort of just there for moral support if it's needed. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Thaarin seems amused. "Now, why would you say that?" he teases playfully when Navi instructs him to keep his eyes on the terrain not her bum. Regardless, he steers the hoverboat successfully, albeit with some difficulty towards a massive ceiling rafter that's sticking out of the mud near the general store. "Careful," Thaarin says as everyone starts to disembark,"this area doesn't exactly look like an easy tread..." And he's right. The parking lot in front of the general store is covered in debris and mud. Probably not a problem for Navi, as she can Force leap, but for the others it might prove tricky. When Thaarin notices Cayde heading their way, he waves him down. "Over here," he says to Cayde. "We're probably going to need your help." When it comes time for Zetha to disembark, Thaarin offers her a hand. "Think you can make it inside?" he asks cautiously. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde makes his way over to them as Thaarin waves him down.     He looks them over, relieved to find they seem to be more or less all right. [How do I help] he asks. [Are you going down] 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' There's a moment where Zetha looks to Thaarin and to where they're headed and she wonders if she should bow out. But Crane's in danger let along the other Mandalorians and such. If she didn't try to help, why is she even here? "I think I can make it...I'm certainly going to try no matter what." 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' Navi watches Cayde approach as she finishes securing the boat. "Yes, Cayde, we're going into the tunnels," she replies. "There's a chance that some of the sentients that were in the convent were able to escape into them. Did you ever find the source of that explosion we saw earlier?" She waits for Cayde's answer, drawing upon the Force and manipulating its flows between herself and the muddy ground. Then she leaps, covering more than twenty feet to get clear of the debris field in front of the general store. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "Your saber," he says, glancing over at the general store, "we're likely going to have to do some... strategic cutting in order to get to the entry to the tunnels below Kublop," he says with a nod. "But don't do anything until I tell you to," he instructs the padawan carefully. Thaarin nods at Zetha. "Let's go, then," He says, "but be careful." He steps out of the hoverboat and motions for her to follow him. Navi will find that getting inside the general store might prove tricky. The front door is completely blocked by debris and mud. And the sign on the front of the store has half collapsed - if she cut through here with her saber, it might cause a landslide of debris off the roof. although it does look like there's probably multiple ways to get in, they just need to look around for a spot where cutting wouldn't cause collapse and masses of sliding debris. 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "Well, we're not getting in through the front door... you can barely tell this place ever /had/ a front door," Navi observes, beginning to search the area around the building. Within a few minutes she has better luck. "Over here!" she calls from the left side of the building as she unstows her lightsaber. "It looks like we can safely cut our way in through here!" 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde follows Navi over to the identified location, drawing his lightsaber and immediately starting to cut through the debris as best he can. So much for waiting for Thaarin to instruct him, of course. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha nods to Thaarin and offers him as confident a smile as she can muster. "After you..." Offering this and she will follow Thaarin's lead, keeping up and steady on her feet as best she can. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Thaarin frowns at Navi's reply, looking concerned, watching as she goes around to the left side of the building and finds a better entry way into the general store.  Thaarin arches a brow at Cayde when he unsheathes his saber, as he hadn't told him to use it yet. But he doesn't comment. He makes his way towards the general store, making sure Zetha is close behind him. Navi is successful at cutting away the debris covering the second entry, and soon they're inside. But inside isn't much better than outside. Crushed cans of beans, raw nuna legs falling out of ripped pouches, soggy ration bars, spilt blue milk, and broken glass covers the floor. Not to mention that there's little to no lighting in there. Parts of the ceiling has caved in as well, and there are knocked over shelves everywhere.  "The entry to the tunnels will be in the back," Thaarin says, trying to peer through the doom and gloom. "I know it's not visible from here. But I'm sure it's there." Somehow, despite carrying three people and being injured, Volken will be able to plow through the last of the rock barrier in front of him. A few pebbles will fall onto the gargantuan Mandalorian's shoulders, but he probably won't feel them. When the dust settles, he'll find himself standing in front of a tunnel that's mostly in the clear. Where would it lead him? Who knew, but he couldn't stay, that was for certain. Water is already starting to pool around his ankles. 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' Navi keeps her lightsaber lit, to let its bluish-white glare light the immediate area. "Step carefully... there's all kinds of junk all over the floor. Some of it's broken glass." 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' If it's pooling around his ankles - it means it'd be near knee high to anyone else so...time to move. That's right. He is injured. He took that shot from Kass earlier. The man is so huge and preternaturally durable that he basically forgot about the blaster wound in the middle of everything else... He'll have to beat Kass within an inch of his life after he makes sure he survives this... "Alright.." he grumbles, dark hair matted to his body now and his trim beard draining water from as his brow furrows. "Let's ...keep going." With that, he starts moving ahead, making his way through the tunnel as quickly as he can. Ah that's right>Ellari abandoned him. He'll have to beat her up as well. That gives him that much more energy to keep moving. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Of course the place is a mess. Cayde sighs and focuses on the obstacles before them, then starts attempting to carefully move everything aside, toward the outer walls in a way that will not cause anything to fall on top of them. A collapsed shelf rights itself, and scoots across the floor toward the wall, whilst broken glass, spilled food and other debris slide away toward the corners of the shopping area. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha just tries to keep pace with Thaarin, watching the ground as they walk since someone said there was debris everywhere. Seeing the state of the convent tugs at her, and she hopes - and perhaps silently prays to the Force - that everyone who was in the convent was able to get to safety. "I hope everyone is okay..." 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Thaarin nods at Navi's instruction, taking care not to step on anything that might puncture his boots, and keeping a close eye on Zetha to make sure that she doesn't either. He gives Zetha a faint smile. "I hope so too. I hope so too..." But this expression expression becomes a bit more somber when Cayde starts moving things around. Somewhere, there's a crash, although nothing immediately falls down on any of them. "Cayde, be careful," he warns the padawan. He then motions to Navi. "I think the entrance is in the warehouse in the back," he says, pointing. They'll just barely be able to make a pair of sliding doors covered in debris. The environment around it looks... precarious. Like if they move or cut anything, the entire building might collapse. "Let me take a closer look." He glances back at Zetha. "I might need your help," he adds. Crane groans weakly, the only conscious being Volken is carrying. "...yes," he says weakly. "I... I believe in you." Soon, Volken will come to an intersection. He's going to have to make a decision about which way to go, but whatever he decides, he should do it fast. The water is rising, still. Two of the tunnels branching out are unlit. The other has some light, but Volken will be able to tell that the ground above has caved in places above the tunnel. It could be risky, but was dark better? 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "Thanks, Cayde. At least now we can get into the back," Navi observes, stepping into the warehouse area. And stopping, lightsaber foremost, studying the area. "Swell. Looks like it's going to be a lot harder to clear this out than the front. Cayde, don't touch anything yet. It looks like half the roof will fall in if some of this stuff's disturbed." She is able to pick her way closer to the doors, but not to clear them, and holds her lightsaber in a way to allow Thaarin and Zetha to be able to see the area clearly. 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' Dark had to be it. Even with the armor on, another cave in woudl probably finish off his passengers and Volken would be in no condition to stop i it or deal with it. Without the inspector to guiide them, he has to take a chance and just continue moving. If it was just one of them he could risk running or even find somethihg to try and prop the roof up but right now it's a risk even he's unwilling to take. "Alright, gimme somma that Canto BIght luck.." he grumbles before dipping into one of hte dark tunnels with his passengers. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Too late, Cayde is already trying to move the debris away from the entrance to the tunnels. Well he had already been doing this as they made their way toward the warehouse, and it only seemed a natural extension of that. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "Cayde! Navi said don't touch--!" but it's too late, Cayde is shoving things aside, and suddenly, part of the roof is caving in. "Zetha, look out!" Thaarin just barely manages to avoid the falling roof tiles, reaching for Zetha's wrist and attempting to yank her aside as well. Afterwards, he sighs in mild exasperation and makes his way over to where Navi is. He takes out a small environmental scanner and runs it laterally across the wreckage blocking the door. He frowns thoughtfully. "We can make it through," he says, "but it's going to take some precise cutting, at the exact right moment, and fast hands with a welder." He looks to Zetha. "Do you have your tools on you?" Volken will be hit with pitch black, but at least no rocks. The ground here feels soft, and mud will suck at his feet. Is he going the right way? Where were they going anyway? These thoughts must have occurred to Crane. "Where..." he says weakly. "... we going?" 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "Cayde, what the frell are you... /Zetha, look out/!" Navi cries, grabbing for Zetha's hand with her free hand. She can't drop her lightsaber and deprive everyone of the light source, meaning she can't use both hands, so she uses a ballroom dance move she learned once to twirl Zetha up against her, out of the way of falling chunks of roof. "Are you okay?" she asks the Twi'lek, after the partial collapse has stopped. 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' "I don't know!" admits Volken, "The inspector was supposed to guide us tot he hospital but the tunnel that was lit was too unstable. We were lookin' at another cave in. I mighta been alright. You guys owuldnt' have been. So we have to just...trust this is getting us somewhere" That's not much else he can do but keep moving. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     The sudden shouting doesn't help, startling Cayde slightly and causing him to drop some pieces of the roof that almost fall on Zetha. The padawan sighs, and wonders if there is another way down into the tunnels. Maybe another, less destroyed building is connected somewhere. He starts heading back the way they came, through the path he'd already cleared. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Just in the nick of time. The roof collapses and Cayde drops other pieces of it but Zetha is free from the collapse via Thaarin and Navi grabbing and yanking on her. The sudden jostle, however, causes the pain in her head to spike and she winces hard, hands going to hold against the sides of her head for a brief moment. Her stomach flips and there's spots in her vision but she gulps some air and then stands up a bit more. Sort of. "I'm fine...thank you." 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "..." Crane doesn't reply, at least not right away. Instead, he hugs Volken's massive arm like a child seeking validation. Volken will be able to see a tiny pinpoint of light at the end of the tunnel, though the mud will continue to suck at his heels. After a moment, Crane finally asks again. "...why? Why... all of this..." Thaarin's hand misses Zetha's wrist, but thankfully, Navi is able to grab her and pull her out of the way. His brows crease with concern when it becomes clear that Zetha is in pain. "Are you sure?" He pauses. "We're going to need someone to weld. Can you do it?" He then calls to Cayde. "Come back here," He says in a commanding tone. "We're going to need you in a minute. This can work. Don't go anywhere." 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' "Huh?" It's a confusing question and Volken would rather focus on keeping his body working then answer something that...really should be obvious. "What...? Why what?" He takes a second to jump to a conclusion and he rumbles, "What, Mandalorian's are supposed to just....let folk die and drown?" Well Ellari kind of -did- didn't she. He fumes...but then: "It's not your fault you got dragged into all of this because of Kass' crazy di'kut behavior. I'm not going to just leave an innocent to die. It's wrong. That's not how I was taught. It's not The Way. It's not what I believe..evne if it was The Way I wouldn't care.... Even if I coulda left Kass...I want to find out why he was acting that way. Why he won't just....-listen- to common sense. Anyway...just hang on." 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' Being a trained Force healer, Navi is usually pretty good at spotting when someone is hurt. Cupping a hand over one of Zetha's ear cones, she begins to manipulate the flow of the Force between herself and the stricken Twi'lek. She's edging up on exhausted, which may be why she isn't able to cure the head trauma entirely. But she is able to eliminate the accompanying headache, allowing Zetha to work without pain. "Feel better? Let me know if you need any more help," she says softly. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' The relief she feels when Navi works some Force power on her has Zetha standing up a bit taller and she offers a smile. "That's a lot better. Thank you.." She then glances to Thaarin and nods her head. "I promise I'll get checked out as soon as I can...but for now...where do you need me? How can I help?" She sounds better too. Not fully healed, but able to push through it a lot better. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde stops and turns around, although he doesn't quite backtrack. He just sort of stands there, watching Navi heal Zetha with an unreadable expression for a moment. Then he simply looks away, and stares at the floor. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Crane doesn't respond right away. But his embrace of Volken's upper arm tightens ever so slightly. "... thank you...." Up ahead, the tiny pinprick of light starts to get bigger. Hopefully, they're headed somewhere drier. Thaarin motions to Cayde as if he were a reluctantly obedient akk dog. "Come over here, I'm going to give very specific instruction," he says to the young padawan, while glancing over at Navi. "I've examined the debris using this scanner and made some calculations." He pulls up a holodisplay of the wreckage he'd scanned, then points to two red diagonal marks on either side of the debris. "It needs to be cut at a thirty five degree angle here, and here," he says. "Simultaneously. Navi and Cayde will have to move in singular motion, and create the cuts at the exact same time. If done correctly, the debris will fall in a precise manner that will wedge it firmly enough to stay stable for at least ninety seconds. Zetha, you must then weld these particular axes--" And he points to three white dots spread out on the holodisplay. "Before the ninety seconds are over. If the operation is a success, then the result will be an archway we can pass through to the warehouse without fearing this building's entire collapse." 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "Come on, Cayde. It's time for some teamwork," Navi says encouragingly, taking a firmer grip on her lightsaber. << Okay, we'll need to swing at precisely the same time here. Ready? >> she sends to him telepathically. << You say when. >> 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde finally comes back, although at Thaarin's instructions, he seems rather apprehensive. That's such a precise angle, how could they expect it to get it exactly right? And at the exact same time? Telepathic synchronization might help, but although his telepathy is potent, it's not always predictable. Navi can feel his uncertainty as she reaches into his mind, and he seems to hesitate. 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' << I've seen you handle a lightsaber, Cayde. You can do this, >> Navi replies upon sensing Cayde's uncertainty. << One quick cut and we're done. You might even be able to help direct some of the debris with telekinesis, but I hope that won't be necessary. Ready when you are. >> 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha gives a nod at the points Thaarin shows her where she would need to weld. She actually opens a couple of her pockets to pull out the items she would need to complete this task. Course she'll have to wait for Cayde and Navi to make their cuts and be quick enough after that - which is why her tools in hand is a must. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Thaarin nods to Zetha, and then looks to Navi and Cayde. "Look, this is the best way in. If we go back out there, we'll be risking ourselves to the elements. The Mandalorians who were with us left to find a better way in and haven't returned, that's telling." "There's a very small margin for error, but it's enough. I think you and Navi can manage it. There's no other way." 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' Navi makes her cut when Cayde gives the word. It's a better than average cut, precise enough to get the job done. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde finally nods and takes a breath, before igniting his lightsaber into the precise location Thaarin had indicated. He maintains his connection to Navi through the Force, to help her sync up with him perfectly. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Lightsabers flash, cut, and then Zetha moves in and takes sauter to flame to weld the spots that Thaarin had pointed out to her. Who needs safety gear when lives are on the line?! Not Zetha. When she's finished she sort of keeps herself still - as if making sure things are as steady as Thaarin calculated they would be. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' The operation is a success, despite the odds and the need for exact precision. The debris falls, wedges itself tightly, and the Zetha sauters it. It groans loudly while she welds, but when he's done, it holds. "It worked," Thaarin says, releasing a breath he hadn't realized he was holding. "Let's go," he says, hurrying through the newly created archway, "it's holding for now, but if the storm worsens it might collapse." Soon, he's on the other side, heading for a trapdoor in the back of the warehouse. As for Volken, he'll be able hear very faint footsteps not too far ahead of him and see that the pinprick of light is actually a silver of beam of light, coming in through a cracked trapdoor, the very one Cayde, Navi, Zetha, and Thaarin are headed for. 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' Navi makes her way to the trap door. "Thank the Force nothing's fallen on that trapdoor," she observes. "Can someone help me with this?" she asks, taking hold of the edge and starting to lift the trap. "Hello?" she calls through the crack. "Is anyone down here?" 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' "Alright..." Volken sets down Crane first and then the Inspector and then he drops Kass roughly to the muddy ground. He checks to see if THe Inspector is breathing or not - but regardless - turns from them both and limps his way over towards the pinprick of light to check it out and test the sturdiness of the structure against his hands. If satisfied...he does the only thing he really -can- do here....and brings a massive fist back to prepare to slam it forward and try and force the thing open or otherwise bust through it! Which is fortunante for Navi that he sees her just before he makes the swing! "Whoa, whoa, whoa!" 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha moves forward to help Navi open the door after getting over the archway. Then she looks over and gives a gasp. "Big scary man!" She says and then looks around - though it's very likely she can't see anything beyond the hulk's hulking form of hulkiness. "Is anyone else with you?" 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde is immediately able to sense Volken and Amarik's presence on the other side of the door. Although Amarik is..weakened. He tries to grab Navi by the shoulders and pull her back away, as Volken is ready to swing with those massive fists of his! 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Thaarin's eyes widen slightly when he realizes it's Volken down there. "It's them," he murmurs to no one in particular. "Don't," He suddenly instructs Volken through the crack in the trapdoor. "We can open it. The others... how are they?" He then immediately reaches down to help Navi lift the trapdoor up. Volken might almost be blinded by the light, somehow, there's still a battery powered working light source in the warehouse, and after having been in the dark for a long time, it will feel like staring into the sun. Thaarin leans over the edge of the trapdoor, dismay suddenly coming over his expression. "Navi! Quickly...! They don't look well... Zetha, you might want to take a step back..." 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "The others? Wait. Is Crane with you? Where is he?" Zetha says this before Thaarin gets any more words out. So when he's telling her she might want to take a step back - she does. But the worry is in her eyes as she watches because the way Thaarin was sounding and the words he was saying, they settle in her mind with a mighty weight to them. 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' "Yes... I need help." answers Volkent ot he questions tossed his way. "The Inspector...I'm not sure if he's breathing. Crane, A disciple from...from Jedha and that idiot Kass.. They're all unconscious.. barely alive. I'll explain later..." NOtably, Volken is not in his armor. His mud streaked features exposed. His upper body bearing a soggy and barely together sleeveless tee-shirt and a very obvious blaster wound smouldering on his flank. Well - part of his armor. His legging armor is on but his helmet and his chest piece are basically engufling much of Crane's body. He backs up fro the trap door and turns to make his way back towards where the three are. He finally starts looking tired, as if he simply couldn't allow it until now. He waits as the door is opened and for them to make their way down and he takes a second to actually roll his shoulders and sort out his own battered frame. 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "Eek!" Navi squeals as she's grabbed and pulled back from the trapdoor by Cayde. Fortunately, Volken doesn't swing that massive fist. Getting to her feet and hastily adjusting her suspenders, which had been dislodged by Cayde's grab, she hurries to look down the trapdoor. "Oh, goodness... you're right about them not looking well. Give me a minute..." She drops through the trapdoor and goes to work. "Volken, can you hold still a moment? You could use some medical attention," she says, reaching for his wrist. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde stares down through the trapdoor at Volken and the injured people with him. How had this happened? Why was Amarik with him?     This time, he can't help but pry, entering the Tholothian's mind to try to find out what exactly happened and why he's in such critical condition. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Thaarin doesn't waste a moment. With surprising agility he climbs down into the tunnels, barely paying any attention to Volken at all. He immediately leans over the inspector and feels for a pulse. His expression becomes ashen and solemn. "We're too late," he says quietly, "he's gone." Then looks to Crane, frowning. He's unconscious too, and bleeding everywhere. "Shit..." he mutters. "Navi, get your ass over here," he says, although he doesn't sound condescending, just desperate and needing to convey a sense of urgency, "I think he's dying." Zetha will be able to hear every word Thaarin is saying, but from where she is, won't be able to see who he's talking about. But does she want to find out...? Cayde will find that the Tholothian man's memory is ... horribly blurry. He's majorly concussed, and can't seem to even remember very many details about how he'd become so injured. There's a memory of someone beskar attacking him, lots of water, falling rocks, and then Volken picking him up, but the order of the memories probably isn't correct. 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' Volken emits a slow sigh as the word of the inspector's condition is given. He shakes his head and just sits there for a moment, not speaking or answering any questions right away. 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' Navi takes hold of Volken's wrist, manipulating the flow of the Force through him, and between him and herself. The wounds close up and the pain disappears. Releasing his wrist, she hurries to "Crane's" side and kneels next to him, laying her hands on his shoulders. Once more she calls upon the Force and tweaks its flow. Within minutes the wounds close up and the headache and pain disappear, leaving him weary but alive and whole. Rising, she moves to check on the inspector, just to be sure. The odds of saving him don't really exist, but she must be sure she's done all she can. Kneeling beside him, she checks for a pulse and for breathing... and finds none. She looks up at Thaarin and sadly shakes her head. 
}}

The Monsoon

2026-03-21T01:33:55Z

Andromeda: Created page with "{{Log Header |Date of Scene=2026-01-22 |Cast of Characters=159, 321, 296, 444, 261, 143, 418 |pretty=yes }} {{Poses |Poses=:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' It's been exactly a few hours since Volken and perhaps the other Mandalorians as well have left the hospital. Now, whether Volken is brooding in a bar thinking about his next move, or actively on the hunt for the Zealot, the baron, or the clone, he may or may not be surprised when his commlink c..."

{{Log Header
|Date of Scene=2026-01-22
|Cast of Characters=159, 321, 296, 444, 261, 143, 418
|pretty=yes
}}
{{Poses
|Poses=:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' It's been exactly a few hours since Volken and perhaps the other Mandalorians as well have left the hospital. Now, whether Volken is brooding in a bar thinking about his next move, or actively on the hunt for the Zealot, the baron, or the clone, he may or may not be surprised when his commlink crackles to life with a voice transmission from Er'gi. This may come as a surprise, as the other hulking Mandalorian had not accompanied Ellari, Volken and Jorn to the hospital upon Kasseady's summon. Where he had been all this time would have been a bit of a mystery... until now. <Volken!> the other Mandalorian says urgently, <Where are you? Haar'chak! I have bad news. Kasseady has betrayed us. He revealed to me while drunk that somehow, he'd made contact with his brother! I tried to chase him down, but he escaped. I need to find him> 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' The hospital didn't tgo as planned. There was no rescue to be done. Volken standing up to the Jedi Master's refusal to accomodate them regarding the clone was inconclusive and now he's found himself out at a bar, getting drunk before going to look for Zealot. Naturally being drunk while looking for him will sharpen his senses. When the comm link goes off and he hears Er'gi he frowns lightly at frst. He wasn't exactly pleased that he and Kass had just sort of vanished. But now -this- news. "You're joking, vod. " he responds. "Ergh...I"m going to kill him now. He's betrayed my trust... And what's worse - now Ellari will have something to hold over my head for being right about! Unforgivable! Where are you??" 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Er'gi tells the other mammoth. <He suspected I knew, Volken. He was acting strange. Then when I tried to ask questions he jumped me, took my commlink and ran off. I gave chase and eventually was able to recover it but he got away and I'm not sure where he went. I'm on the south side of town, not far from the trade plaza. He can't be far. This town is small and I'd know if he went for the spaceport> 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' "Alright sit tight.." rumbles the giant. He then slowy rises and after a second of getting his mind back together, retrieves his helmet nd starts to make his way out and into the town to head towards Er'gi's location. To say he's displeased is an underestatement and he even keeps his helmet off just so that anyone looking at him and his face can see just how annoyed he is... 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "Err, hope you're headed back to wherever you're staying," the bartender says, concerned. "No one with a half a dozen pints in them should be going anywhere else..." The weather will start to mirror Volkens mood. A dark grey cloud hangs over Kublop, threatening rain. When Volken arrives at the trade plaza, he'll see Er'gi running towards him. "I've good news and bad news," the other giant tells him. 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' Being stone cold drunk is the best tiem to fight as far as Volken is concerned. It clears the mind. So he just ignores the bartender after giving him a quick mildly sullen look and grunting something non committal. Er'gi receives only slightly less ire when the behemoth balefully encounters and eyes the other giant. "Alright.." he grunts out . "Let's have it." 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "Well," Er'gi offers. "I've found him. But I'm not the only one." He points down the street, and Volken will be able to see that a couple blocks down, a small to medium sized crowd has gathered in front of the Disciple of Whills convent. Their dismayed whispers are tell tale. "He's holed up in there," the other Mandalorian says. "And there's a couple townsfolk in there. A Disciple, and the local property inspector, employed by the mayor. He's taken them hostage, more or less. The local constabulary is involved now..." If Volken goes closer to investigate he'll see the constables banging on the door of the convent. "Open up in the name of Republic!" one of them shouts. But there's no response. 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     Ellari had joined Volken at the bar. Honestly, she could really use a drink after getting shot. The Force healing had helped, but she was still sore.     "Who has taken who hostage?" she asks Er'gi. "Kass has taken the mayor hostage?" she scoffs, muttering obscenities in Mando'a. 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' He didnt' want Ellari to follow him but at least she isn't rubbing it in his face and she's probably more sober then him..so Volken just emits a grunt as he mutters, "I knew giving that di'kut a chance was a risk but damn... he could have at least gone a littel bit longer before doing this. Why the hell does he have hostages? What'd he do that requires tihs or rather what'd that fool Caine put him up to? This is nosnse. Can't that idiot see his brother is just using him to cause distractions?" Volken shakes his head and then grumbles, "If we just go in and get him it'll get those hostages hurt or worse...." 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "No, just a couple of civilians. The townsfolk are concerned, obviously. The mayor's here, and so are couple of the Disciples. I don't know what's going on. He knows I'm after him, and I think he's trying to use them as leverage to keep us away--" The constables are banging on the door again, but still, no response. Nearby, a mother consoles her sobbing child. "My dad is in there!" the child cries. The mother looks up at Volken, her own eyes swollen. "Oh please, do something. My husband can't last in there without medicine for his chronic condition. And the other Disciple, he's so young..." 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     Ellari rolls her eyes. "Di'kut." she mutters. "Where is that...mind tricks boy? Can't he use whatever sorcery he has to pound some common sense into that hut'uun before he realizes what's happening?" 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' "Hmmm? Oh ..Cayde... Wherever he is it's not here and not likely to get here in time. Even if was he's unreliable, not to mention I dont' know how well he is at actually -following- orders if they aren't given by his Jedi peers. He certainly doesn't seem to liten to his partner, Navi... She'd be better to have here but they're both not here so it's no use aching about it..." Turning to Er'gi, Volken rumbles, "YOu should back off. We'll go up there and hear what he's got to say. He can't do -anything- just stuck in there after all. He probably wants out.." That said, Volken just gives the mother and child a long look, not saying anything to either of them. He then put shis helmet back on and turns and starts forward for the building. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "Likely went back because of the brewing storm," Er'gi says, "the monsoons can sometimes stall the tram for days." He then nods, and steps back. Upon approaching the building, he'll see the mayor, a couple of Disciples, and the local constables at the front, still trying to get in. One of them looks at Volken disdainfully. "Is this your mess?" he says, brow furrowed, his Coruscanti accent pronounced. "Now now," the mayor interjects. "There's no need for that. Perhaps he can help." One of the Disciples sizes up Volken. "We need to get in. -Quietly-. There's a back door that leads to the communal showers, but we don't have the strength or means necessary to break in without using a blaster or battering ram.." 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     "Hmph, you can't contact him? I thought he was your friend, or something." Ellari remarks, but then shrugs. "I suppose we'll have to deal with this ourselves, then."     She scoffs at the 'quietly' part. "Ah, of course. Volken, how are your stealth skills?" she asks, smirking. 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' "No Ic an't contact him nor would I want to .. I just told you why it'd be a bad idea." grunts Volken at Ellari. "I'd call on Navi first. Cayde has issues he needs to resolve...." That said he looks back towards the mayor and the others, considering their words. He then looks back to Ellari. "They don't exist." Volken? Stealth? "But...I can open up any door. So... why don't you distract Kass by talking to him. I'll go to the back with these ones and get the door open..." 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Suddenly a voice arises from inside the convent. "Volken is that you?" "Don't you dare come in here! I'll -- I'll kill them all!" His voice reeks of desperation and sheer madness. Had he lost his mind? A gasp arises from the crowd and the Mayor pinches his nose bridge with a sigh. The Disciples remain calm, but their brows furrow more deeply. "The backdoor is manual entry. If you can crush the doorknob," she says, "you should be able to get in." 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     "You are a pathetic excuse for a Mandalorian, Kasseady." Ellari shouts back at him. "What do you want? Come out and fight for it, instead of hiding behind strangers!"     How's that for 'talking'? 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' Yup there we go. Talking. Volken clams up at that point and steps away, gesturing for them to lead on to the back of the building and then giving a quick thumbs up to Ellari. Keep talking. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "You don't understand, you never did, you don't know what it's like to be me," he babbles. "Leave me the hell alone. Leave me..." his voice then starts to fade, withdrawing deeper into the building. The Disciples show Volken where the back door is. Well, yeah, maybe it won't be a problem. The door is old, and the knob looks... breakable. But can he crush it... quietly? 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     Ellari rolls her eyes. "You pitiful crybaby, no one understands that, for -anyone- unless you are a sorcerer like those Jedi or whatever. If you want that then maybe you should go ask one of -them- to be your friend. What is the point of all this? What do you -want-?" 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' The behemoth makes a mock gesture of putting his fingres up to where his lips would be, save for the helm. As if to say 'Shhhhhh'. Once at the back door he lays his hand upo the lock...and begins to squeeze. To be fair he -tries- to be careful. But...he's drunk. The lock wrenches and the door bucklles. There's a bit of a sharp grinding sound before Volken realizes what's happend and releases the door. "....Whoops." 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Ellari will receive no response. Probably not a good sign, but what can she do at this point? Volken will be able to look into the convent. He won't be able to see Kass, the lights are all off. But he doesn't seem to be nearby... 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' There's not much left to do but just go in. Volken listens, tryign to see if he can hear Kass and his conversation with Ellari. Eventually the whole point of subterfuge is going to just have to be dropped. The door opening was noisy to begin with and trying to ask him to sneak is like tryign to ask two drunk Dowutin to sneak around. Effectively...yeah... him trying to sneak. So he marches in, not exactly bulldozing but moving with some assurance.. At least as much as he can muster considering hsi state. <<Ellari...what's happening>> 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     "Dank farrik." Ellari mutters, and then begins attempting to quietly enter through a window by opening it slowly...     <<I'm going in>> she replies to Volken. <> 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Outside, the sound of thunder rumbling can be heard. It would probably be pouring rain soon. Volken won't be able to see much, but ahead of him he'll see some movement. A shadow slipping towards a narrow hallway... 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' <<Ooooh I love it when you're scary and violent.>> rumbles the decidedly very drunk Volken. He sees the shadow moving and starts heading in that direction. <> Priming his weapons would draw too much additional attention so he keeps them depowered - simply moving forward now in hopes off finding -someone-. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' The window creaks, but just barely. The noise it makes isn't enough to draw attention to Ellari, so that's good. As Volken approaches there's a yelp. It's the property inspector. At first he seems frightened, but when he sees that Volken's weapons are depowered, he heaves a sigh of relief and hurries towards him. He looks pale, but at least cognizant of what's going on. "You-- you have to help, please! He's got one of the Disciples--" He points up towards the attic. "Please, for light's sake. I know him, he doesn't deserve this, he's never hurt another soul in his entire life.." 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     Volken's stealth skills may be non-existent, but it seems the same can't be said of Ellari. She slips in through the window, returning it to its place afterward. <> she replies back to the giant's drunk text, then starts looking for Kasseady. 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' Volken makes a general gesture for the property manager, indicating for him to get behind him and head for the back door. He listens carefully, and then proceeds forward in search of a way up towards the attic. At this point he presumes he'll meet up with Ellari in the middle of the place ... or perhaps she may beat him to the upstairs considering the way she entered in. At his stage - there's no other option but to continue forward as carefully as possible though it's ...likely Kass knows they're already in there. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' The property inspector nods timidly and weakly and then points down the hall, where a spiral staircase leads to the upper levels of the convent. Then he backs up, slipping in a closet behind Volken, staying out of sight. As Volken makes his way towards the attic, he'll find himself on ceramic tile, and the sound of his massive boots is.. unmistakable. If Kass didn't know he was here before, he does now. Both Ellari and Volken will be able to hear some more shuffling on the upper level, and then another familiar voice calls out weakly, "Volken? Is that you? I--I'm sorry for everything I said earlier. Please --" It's the young Tholothian man, 'Crane'. The one he'd met back on Jedha... Then there's a soft thud, a groan, and the sound of a body hitting the floor. Then Kass yells over the railing. "I told you not to come in here!! If you come up here ... I'll kill him! And then I'll.. I'll burn this place to the ground!" Then they'll be able to hear the sound of a body being hurriedly dragged across the floor. 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' He's drunk...but he's not -that- drunk... And this sobers him up quickly. "Kass! This isn't The Way. We don't take hostages and use the weak to protect ourselves! Don't you want to reclaim your honor? What is all of this insanity! DId something get into your head? Come -down- here." If he sees Ellari now, he only gives her a quick glance. It seems their efforts at subterfuge was never meant to work out.. so option number two is becoming more nad more likely. Bust their way in. 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     "Then you are no Mandalorian." Ellari replies to Kass' likely empty threats. "If you continue disgracing the Way, you will -never- regain your honor. Now, come down here and tell us what you want. Fight us for it, if you must! But only a hu'tunn shields himself with the blood of innocents." 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "Stay away from me," Kass snarls, "stay -away-..." His tone is ice thin, as if it's about to snap. He seems... mentally unwell, but Volken and Ellari may be left wondering the reason for his crash out. There's more shuffling and movement coming from the attic. If they look up, they'll see that there's not really much space up there. And there's only one way up and down - the staircase. He couldn't escape - but going up there would risk the Disciple's life. 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     Ellari doesn't reply, simply folding her arms and glaring up at the attic. He can't stay there forever, now can he? "Let's just leave him up there. He'll have to come out at some point." she remarks to Volken. 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' "If he's that unhinged, don't you think he might kill one of them? Besides, that one guy up there... I can't just let him get messed up by Kass and if something does happen it'll just make it harder for us to do what we're here to do. Everyone will be blaming us.. It'd be better to just go up there or at least find out what he wants.." counters Volken to Ellari. "Th'guys obviously out of his mind. Something's snaped in him and it's probably got to do with Caine..." With that, Volken raises his voice. "Calm -down- Kass. Just tell us what you want! Is this about your Brother? About Caine? We're -trying- to find him but we can't with you acting out like this. Let the folk up there go and we'll take it from there!" 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "Get -out-," Kass growls, feral. "I told you leave me alone!!" More shuffling, and the sound of retreating footsteps. Outside, they'll hear a crack of thunder, and they may now notice that it's pouring akk dogs and tooka cats out there. The wind is howling around the sides of the building too, and if they look down, they'll notice that there's an inch or two of water on the floor. The convent was on the lower side of town -- and if any flash flooding happening, this area was going to get hit hard. Meanwhile, Cayde, Navi, Rykard, and Mondrian (F) likely on the tram back to the colony now, though the storm is terrible and the few colonists who are also on it seem afraid that the tram might not make it back to Aklyrr Bend... And Zetha's probably back at the scrapyard. If she isn't, she probably should be -- Wiis is trying to get out every single pot and pan trying to stop the leaks in the half finished roof from flooding the house! 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha is, indeed, back at the spaceport. She's had enough fun to last her a good day or two before stirring up more trouble. "Why have they not finished the roof yet? This is ridiculous..." She mutters while helping Wiis with getting pots and pans - anything that can hold water really - under the leaks. "Which also makes me wonder when they actually think they'll have everything done..." 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     "If he was planning on doing that, he would have done it already." Ellari points out. "But if he does, he'll instantly lose his leverage. What benefit does killing them bring him?" she shakes her head. "But if you go up there, he might go on a rampage. Perhaps you can stop him in time, though. If you think you can, I am not stopping you." she tells Volken. 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "It's times like this that I wish I'd been trained in Force powers that deal with weather," Navi murmurs, watching the rainfall through the tram car's windows. She's sitting beside Mondrian (F), since the taller woman had wanted company in the wake of her terribe day at the hospital. "Ordinarily I don't have a problem with storms, but this is really something else." 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' "Of course you're not stopping me. Because you're going to help me. This effects you too." counters Volken, "And desperate men don't often think logically. That's the growl of a desperate man with nowhere else to go. Killing a hostage does cause hi tim to lose his leverage but he might think it a good move just to prove he's willing to do it." That said, Volken looks around, noting the water, "We'll have to just risk it. I'll go up. Distract him. You grab the hostages." 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "Resource shortage!" Wiis shouts over the sound of water hitting the floor and the wind howling outside. "Look, it's the annual monsoon. We're likely gonna have to head up to the attic with some water and rations." Zetha probably won't be surprised by this suggestion, monsoon season happened every year on Tenoo. Sometimes it was just a little flooding, and sometimes... it was like this. But as she's probably heading to go do as Wiis as suggested, there's a loud knock on the door. "Wiis! Wiis are you home?" Mondrian (F) is staring out the window, her brows furrowed. She seems lost in thought, and worried. She barely seems to have heard what Navi said. "Hey, how much longer until we're back at the colony?" she asks. But then all of a sudden, the tram starts to slow down. If Navi looks over, she'll see Rykard coming down their train towards where she and Mondrian are sitting. "There's a downed tree on the bridge up ahead," he says, "And Kublop is in imminent danger of massive flooding," he says. He looks around for Cayde. "They're going to need help - but someone also needs to find a way to escort everyone onboard back to Aklyrr. The driver says he's not sure how long this bridge will hold up under the rain, with the tree weighing it down now." "No!" Kass shouts from somewhere up there in the dark. "I'll -- I'll do it! I'll kill him!" 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     Ellari shrugs, glancing up at the door when Kass yells again. "Fine, but if anyone gets killed, that will be on you." She motions toward the ladder. "After you. Mons." 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde glances up at his master as the elder Jedi searches for him, and the Ikkrukki may already sense him wondering why they can't just use the Force and potentially lightsabers if necessary to move the tree and remove the risk of the bridge collapsing. Was it close enough to even walk? Or do they need to wait for another transport? 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "You get up into the attic and make sure Twozee gets up there with you. I'll be up in a moment." Monsoon season is always something they know about but never seemed prepared for. And then there's someone at the door, that voice familiar and causes Zetha to pause. "What the kriff is the mayor doing here?" And sounding so panicked? Still it'd be absolutely rude to keep the man out in the pouring rain so she goes and opens the door. "Wiis is here, but we're heading up into the attic because the house is flooding...." 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' "Fine and if I win and save the hostages you have to take me out and then tell everyone in Sundari that you did.." With that, Volken steps away from Ellari and crouches down. His armor straps stretch and creak, the beskar itself seeming to struggle against him as he flexes his enormous legs - and then points his vambraces downward to trigger his repulsor gauntlets for the added boost. An instant later and he's lunging upwards straight for the ceiling -- and thus the floor of the attic above them, attempting to burst through right around where he guessed at Kass's general positon given the sound of the feet moving from earlier. 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "Then it sounds like we need to do something about that tree," Navi says, standing. "Just how big is it, and can we reach it on foot? Lightsabers might be enough to cut it into pieces, and the Force may be able to assist with moving any remaining pieces off of the bridge." 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     Ellari smirks. "Take you out? What would you like me to do it with? Blaster pistols? A rifle? Or would you prefer a beskar blade?"     Brows go up when he literally blasts through the ceiling. Overkill much? "Well I suppose that's that." she mutters. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Rykard shakes his head solemnly at Navi and Cayde. "It's a Tenoo tree," he says. "There's no way we'd be able to cut it into pieces." He glances to Navi and Cayde. "The colonists will just have to be escorted," he says, "but I just received word that a dam just north of Kublop broke. The town will be flooded soon," he says, "We're going to have to split." The man is soaked, but he isn't by himself. There's a few other Kublop citizens are with him - the property inspector's wife and child, two Disciples, and ... Thaarin??! What's he doing here. "I was on the south side of town visiting the convent. I was going to head back," the mayor said, "but there's no way I'll make it to the manor in this weather. Can we... come in?" He pauses. "There's also something you need to know," he says, and his face suddenly goes pale. There's an anguished cry from Kass, scuffling, another thump, and another soft groan. "Don't you dare come up here Volken! Don't.. don't you dare!!" Volken may notice that there's something dark and sticky dripping down out of the hole he's just made. Is it... blood? 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' "You know what I meant!" shouts Volken back at Ellari. But he's also busy exploding through the floor in order to enter the attic. And upo noting the sticky substance ....and what it could be...he sobers up even more and becomes alert rather quickly. "Enough, Kass...what've you done?!" He quickly sweeps his gaze around the attic, expecting Ellari to come up the stairs at any moment while he corners Kass. 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     Ellari indeed follows him up into the attic, immediately searching for Kass and whomever he has taken prisoner. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     [But what about the bridge] Cayde asks. How would they travel between the two settlements if the bridge collapsed? And how much farther was Aklyrr? Surely it wasn't safe to walk through a storm. Maybe they should wait in the train. 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "Pity. So I guess it's a question of who does the escorting and who goes back to Kublop Springs," Navi replies. "And it wouldn't hurt to know how much farther it is to Whatever Bend, and how we're going to get past the tree." 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "Yeah of course...please..." Zetha moves out of the way to let them all come in. "It's certainly a bit more dry than out there but..." Not by much, except that's a thought she'll keep in her head. She does allow her gaze to shift to Thaarin but just as quickly she's looking away and letting everyone shuffle inside. It's the last thing the mayor says that has her sort of pausing and looking back to him. "That /I/ should know? Well...I suppose now's a time as any to say it. Once you're settled of course." 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' The attic is... bigger than it looked from down below. And it's really dark. Volken won't be able to see much, but he will be able to smell the blood on the floor, and hear some faint scuffling near a window across from him. Outside, the window howls, and a lamppost falls over crashing in through the window across from Volken. It flickers several times before going out, but he'll be able to see a clear trail of blood leading towards where he'd heard the scuffling. Rykard is about to reply to Cayde when there's a sickening groan coming from outside. "We'll just have to figure it out," he says, maintaining his Jedi calm, "but right now, the people on this tram are in danger. If it collapses while the tram is still on it..." he shakes his head. "We're about halfway. And I don't have answers to that question. But whatever we are going to do we must decide quickly." He starts headcounting the colonists, but then stops. "Wait, where's Mondrian? She was just here..." He comments with a pensive frown. Indeed, it would seem the forensic analyst has disappeared to only light knows where. "Thank you," the mayor says, stepping aside to allow the prospector's wife and her child in first, and then following. Wiis then appears, having heard the door open, and looks displeased to see the mayor. "What! Zetha, why'd you-- I didn't say you could come in!" she grumbles at the mayor. Apparently she'd disregarded Zetha's ask earlier. The mayor then tries to soothe Wiis nerves by apologizing and asking how she'd been. Thaarin looks to Zetha. "I'm sorry for intruding," he says, "but it's your boyfriend. He was taken hostage by a Mandalorian." 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' "Kass! We don't have -time- for this. There's a storm here! This whole place is gonna get washed away! I"ve had it!" Volken sweeps his gaze over the area, searching for signs of Kass and any clue as to who the blood came from. He doesn't see the hostages yet either but all he can do is keep moving forward through the attic in search of Kass. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha winces as Wiis begins to fuss at her for letting people in. But then the Mayor and the prospector's wife are taking the moment to distract Wiis and Zetha's own attention goes to Thaarin. When he drops the bomb about Crane, she blinks, shakes her head and then stares at him for a moment. "I'm sorry. Did you say Crane has been taken hostage? When? Why?...." She actually goes a little pale in the face before shaking her head again. Not really sure what more to say about it. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     How are they going to get past the tree, indeed. That was one of the questions swirling through Cayde's mind, too. It wasn't safe out in the storm, but it wasn't safe on a train sitting on a damaged bridge either. All of this is because of the fallen tree, so Cayde doesn't understand why an -attempt- to move the tree shouldn't at least be made.     And so soon enough Mondrian (F) isn't the only one who suddenly isn't here. 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' Navi sighs quietly. "I'll take them home, then. Cayde, you can come if you..." she begins, only to notice Cayde is also missing. "Swell. I should've seen /that/ coming." "Everyone who's going to Aklyrr Bend, move to the other end of the tram and disembark. Once we find Mondrian (F) and Cayde, we'll get started," she calls to the passengers, starting toward the end of the tram nearest the tree. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' No reply. And then out of nowhere, a shot is fired out of the darkness straight at Volken. It'll land. And probably hurt, but Volken's probably wearing his beskar, so the damage isn't as bad as it could be. Thaarin sighs. "I don't know. But he's trapped in the convent." That was ... really bad news. The south side of town was the lowest part of Kublop. If any flooding happened - it was straight in the path of a mudslide. That had happened before. There had been several casualties, and that hadn't happened in years but... Rykard grumbles when Cayde suddenly vanishes. "I'll go look for Cayde," he says, "see if you can get the rest of the colonists off the tram safely. We can't stay on the bridge much longer." 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     Well Kass was going to do -something- at some point, Ellari figured. And he does, by firing at Volken. Stupid mistake, no doubt. Clearly not in his right mind.     She whips around and starts moving in the direction the blaster bolt came from at a brisk pace. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde is already outside on the bridge and attempting to reach out with the Force to determine if there are any strategic methods to actually move the tree off of the bridge without furthering damaging it and without having to simply lift it fully into the air. Everything is wet, so that means there has to be less friction and that has to count for something. 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' Oh yeah. That hurt. He's tough but not immune to pain and his armor and the enhanced durability of his body is there to help. But he still feels that. And it ticks him off. Volken brings his arm around, priming his vambraces and repulsor gauntlets and from this he fires off a powerful blast of kinetic force in the direction of where the shot came from. Ellari will have to just manage the investigation on her own though it's lileley easy to see he's been shot at. 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "Already on it, Master," Navi replies to Master Rykard. "Everyone follow me, please." In a few moments she reaches the rear door of the tram and climbs down onto the bridge. And sees Cayde, closer to the fallen tree. << Never mind looking, Master... I've found Cayde. He's already on the bridge. Now we just have to find Mondrian. >> she says to the Jedi Master telepathically. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "The convent? Oh no... no no no...in this weather that's not good." And it puts Zetha in a hard spot mentally. But she cannot, in good thought, just run out there and do anything. What is she against the power of nature? "Wait. Being a hostage means something else is happening. Do we know what happened that led to the Mandalorians taking him hostage? What's going on there?" 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Indeed. There's more scuffling, and then a shout, when Volken opens fire with a blast of kinetic force. The blast seems to have done more than just bruise Kasseady, the walls shake and a rafter is loosened. It comes crashing down and punctures the floor. Suddenly the floor under Volken groans. The floor's integrity suddenly seems... questionable. But at least Kasseady is out in the open now, limping while holding a bloodied and bruised Crane against himself, pressing a knife to his neck. There's a wild look in his blood shot eyes. "Don't come nearer!!" he screams. "D-D-Don't---!" Outside, the storm is raging, and Cayde will have a hard time discerning anything with the wind howling and the rain pouring down. He'll be able to just barely see the outline of the tree --- Rykard was right. It's massive, its radius as wide as a small house. It's partially cracked, stuck on the bridge itself. <<Thank you, Navi. I'll go to him now>> Rykard runs out of the tram, and Force leaps his way towards Cayde. <What are you doing! We don't have time to move that tree> When Navi steps out of the back of the tram, she'll suddenly be able to see the other missing person - Mondrian (F). She's on the track - but she's heading back towards Kublop?? 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Thaarin gives Zetha a sad look. "No," he says, "I think that Mandalorian has lost his mind," he says quietly. He pauses. "Please don't tell me you're thinking of doing something rash." 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Well, it's already partially cracked, so it's just a matter of pulling it apart, right? Cayde frowns and focuses on trying to pull the thing apart, and then push it off of the bridge. He doesn't respond to Rykard's calls, pouring all of his effort into it. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "What am I supposed to do? Rush in and put myself in danger as well? As much as every ounce of me wants to go help....I'm not leaving Wiis here. Not to deal with the house nearly flooding all by herself." Zetha says, and she pushes the worry and fear down a bit before shaking her head. "Aside from you being here bearing bad news, it's good to see you again." Sort of. Maybe. She might also just be playing nice. 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' "Fine." Volken lowers his arm and just stares at Kass. His own expression can't be seen due ot his helmet but his body language adjusts as if trying to comply with Kass's demands. "Look if you want to join your brother, just go join him. But you need to let this guy go. Do that and then get out of here already. I know you reached out to Caine. Just go." Someone with a sharp shooter aim might be able to do something about the knife but Volken doesn't have that, nor the necessary weapon handy. He just waits for Kass to make his next move "But you need to decide quickly before this floor gives out." 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     Ellari glares right into Kass' crazed, bloodshot eyes. "I still don't know what it is you're trying to accomplish. Behaving like a coward and dishonoring the Way only serves to draw our ire and our aggression." She doesn't even continue to threaten, but simply fires at the hand holding knife. 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' << I've also found Mondrian... she looks to already be headed back toward Kublop Springs, >> Navi sends to Master Rykard, beckoning to the other colonists to follow her. "Mondrian! If you don't mind slowing down a bit, we're coming with you!" she shouts after the frustrated officer. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' <Cayde!> Rykard calls out telepathically, once again. <You won't be able to move the tree like that. We'll have to widen the crack, so that the colonists can pass through> Cayde's attempts to move the tree with the Force don't amount to much. It's too big. He manages to break off a splinter, but that's all. Thaarin's expression softens too. "It's nice to see you again, too," he says softly, his softness and sentiment genuine. But the moment doesn't last. There's suddenly a sickening crack coming from outside, and Thaarin rushes to the window, frowning. "The dam up north," He says, "it must have broken. The mud from the hills is coming down," He says. He goes to take his jacket (which is soaked), and starts heading for the door. "Stay here," he says to Zetha. "I'm going to see what I can do about the hostages at the convent." Really??? As if he would be able to anything against a mudslide?? Kass is trembling, but the knife in his hand still presses to Crane's neck. He doesn't reply to Volken right away. Crane looks up at Volken, and manages a faint smile. "... you ... came..." Then Kass reaches forward with his other hand, in an attempt to grab Volken's shirt collar. "I - I didn't! He called my room. He called me. But I couldn't reach him in time. He didn't tell me where he was, only ... only that he needed a favor....Listen to me Volken," He says, only slightly loosening his grip on Crane. "We're so close. We're so close. We can find him. He will not leave Kublop without the clone and the clone has no means of going anywhere far. He's--" But then Ellari shoots his hand holding the knife to Crane's neck and he shouts, letting go of the Disciple and stumbling backwards. He trips, and falls through the hole Volken had made earlier. There's a horrible crashing sound, and then silence. <Stay safe, both of you> Rykard tells Navi. Mondrian's expression crumples with guilt when she sees Navi. At least she stops running. She pauses, looking around for a moment. "... where's Rykard and Cayde?" 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "They're on the bridge. They'll be along soon," Navi replies. "I think Cayde was trying to remove the fallen tree... Force only knows how. It's as big as a house." 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "And what are you going to do exactly? Tell the mud to go somewhere else?" Though what Thaarin might do - which is what Zetha would do - is try to talk sense into those at the convent because of the imminent danger. Still, she doesn't exactly tell Thaarin to stop either - as if he would listen to her. So her attention shifts over towards the other three in the house and back to Thaarin. Not sure what else to do or say except go to grab another pot to put under a newer leak. 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' "Wha--" Volken is confused. Once again. The change from kass being unwilling to talk to starting to spill so much information is startling and he's struck silent for a moment as Kass grabs him. He spares Crane a fleeting glance but is forced to stare down at Kass once again. "Listen--" he starts -- only for Ellari to act. He expected her to take the shot. He did not expect Kass to go stumbling back and ismply fall out of the building. A few swear words escape him as he stalks forward to try and peer out of the hole that the other Mandalorian fell through before he spares Crane a quick glance. "Get back towards whre Ellari is...quick." HIs words are brusque but some relief at the poor guy not having his throat slashed is evident in his heavy voice. 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     Ellari watches Kass fall with satisfaction, holstering her blasters once more. That was rather well deserved.     She was going to ask what kind of favor, but ah well. Falling through the hole would have to do well enough. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Well Cayde was already trying to widen the crack, in fact he was trying to widen it so much that the thing would split apart and fall off of the bridge. That was the hope, anyway. And it was also the hope, that Master Rykard and Navi would help him soon.... 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "...Thanks... thanks for coming," Mondrian says, turning to head back towards Kublop. "My.. ship has slave rigging on it. I've summoned her. She's a one seater, maybe two. If Rykard and Cayde catch up, they'll have to ride outside, I think. I'll have to pilot very slow anyway. I don't know if she'll make it through the storm, or if the signal will get through enough for her to make it. But I'm gonna keep heading towards Kublop anyway." There's something clearly on Mondrian's mind. Something important, that she's not telling Navi. "I don't know," he says, "but I'm not going to sit around and do nothing while there's at least two people who are about to die." He starts heading for the door, and will leave in the next few seconds if Zetha doesn't do anything to stop him. The mayor watches as Thaarin goes out and Zetha goes to grab another pot for the water leaks. "I'm sorry," he says very softly. "I've hailed the Jedi. But if they can't make it here it time... The convent is going to be completely buried in mud within the next few hours." If he looks down, he'll see Kass lying 2 floors down below. He's unconscious. The floor on the ground level is flooded and damaged, and had caved in places. The property inspector from earlier calls out to Volken. "We've got to get out of here--!" he coughs a wheezing cough. "This whole place is about to flood. But there's no way we're making it back up the incline. The dam --" he coughs again. "it must have broken." Crane nods weakly and tries to crawl back towards Ellari, but his condition is bad. He's really bloody, and can't even stand up. Cayde's attempts widen the crack, and with Rykard's help, they're able to widen it enough for the colonists to hurry through it and get onto the other side, and off the bridge. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' When the Mayor says those words, Zetha looks over to where he and Wiis are standing. Then she makes a decision. "Sorry mom. I'll be back..." And then she's running out the door and moving to catch up with Thaarin. "Well if you think YOU'RE going to play hero while I sit and wait for results... you are sorely mistaken. Don't talk me out of coming with you. Let's just go see what we can do to help..." 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "Mondrian, what's really going on here? Is this about your brother?" Navi asks gently. "Or is it something else?" 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' The thought of just leaving him there crosses his mind. Perhaps a more cutt throat Volken, back during his Canto-Bight and birthday party crashing days might have done so. But he looks too pitiful to just let drown - and he's got information they need. "Right.." he grumbles and then he looks at Ellari and gestures to Crane, "Help him..and then just get out of here..." He doesn't bother to wait to see if she'll comply or not and he just jumps down after Kass, reaching out to grasp for any sort of support structure that remains to help balance his descent as he makes a controlled drop for the man. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Even after the rest of the former train passengers scurry through to the other side off the bridge, Cayde doesn't follow them or move from the spot. Instead, he continues to attempt to concentrate all of his focus onto the parts of the tree that are already cracked onto the bridge, hoping it'll tear just enough to start falling apart and then fall off entirely. 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     Truth be told, Ellari doesn't care that much for either of them, but it would be a dishonorable thing to simply leave them there to die in such a pathetic fashion. She strides over to Crane, and hoists him up onto her shoulder, then starts heading outside. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Shockingly Thaarin doesn't try to talk Zetha out of it. He smiles at her and offers her his hand. "Then let's go," he says, "I'm certain you don't want to waste any more time, either..." And he pulls her along, heading for the convent, tugging her from awning to awning, so they don't get completely obliterated by the monsoon. Mondrian won't look at Navi. All she says is, "Yes!" And then she pushes forward, against the wind and rain, holding up her slaver remote up high, hoping her ship will find the signal. Volken will find himself in the basement of the convent. It's flooded down here, but less flooded, and less chaotic. But he will need to get Kass out of the water quick if he doesn't want Kass to drown. When Ellari goes to leave the convent, the property inspector runs to block her path to exit. "No!" he cries. "You'll never make it up the incline, and the wind is far too strong even for the jetpacks thrusters. You'll plow into a tree, and besides--" he looks at Crane. "He's off -bad-. I don't think he'd survive the elements." He looks towards where Volken had jumped down. "The safest way is through the tunnels. They were built a long time ago, back in the early days when the Republic thought it'd be better to have the tram run underground. They're probably flooded, but not nearly as flooded and muddy as out there." The wind howls violently again, and there's another sickening crack as suddenly, the windows black out, covered with mud. "We have to hurry," the property inspector whispers urgently, climbing down in the hole where Volken is. As Cayde pushes on the massive tree, there's a groaning sound, as the tree starts to split more. It's not enough, but then suddenly, a bolt of lightning comes down from the sky and strikes the tree. It explodes, and Rykard calls out, <Cayde, look out!> 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Lightning suddenly comes down from the sky to finish the job Cayde was already trying to do. Flames erupt everywhere and wood debris goes flying, but the padawan manages to dodge out of the way of some of them and whack the rest away with the Force now that he isn't trying to move a building-sized tree. Of course, now they're stranded out in a dangerous storm with no shelter. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha is actually relieved when Thaarin doesn't argue with her but she also makes a mental note that Wiis didn't cry after her either. She'll follow along with Thaarin, keeping a firm grip on his hand while running with him on their way to the convent. There's silence from her, likely while her brain tries to truly catch up with what all is going on. 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     Ellari eyes the hole where the inspector is going. "And where do the tunnels go, exactly?" she asks, not yet following him and not really believing that she can't just jetpack out of here. 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' Navi starts to run after Mondrian (F), but the sudden crack and explosion of the lightning bolt stops her in her tracks instantly. Looking back, she almost screams in horror as fire and burning debris engulfs part of the bridge! "Nooooo!" she cries, whirling to run back toward the bridge, but when the blast clears, she sees Cayde and Master Rykard standing there, unharmed, and almost faints from relief. The tram tracks are clear! Instantly she waves her arm to get the attention of the civilian colonists. "Everybody back to the tram! It might be a risky ride, but it's a lot safer than walking into a disaster area!" she calls to them, waving them back toward the tram. "A lot drier, too..." she murmurs, looking down at her wet clothes and pushing her wet twintails back off of her shoulders. 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' "I'm not a big fan of taking an underground tunnel during a flood, not knowing where we're going or with a quick way above ground. That sounds like a disaster waiting to happen. In case you haven't noticed we're weighed down with priceless armor so swimming or getting caught in a tunnel filling with water isn't an option." Volken has shoulder Kass now as he turns. He's limping as well. That earlier blaster shot wasn't an ideal outcome for a situation like this. "We need to go high, not low." 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Rykard looks relieved when Cayde manages to leap out of the way just in time. The tree falls down into the foggy abyss below - and the bridge, well, it's damaged but holding up for now. He then looks to Navi and shouts to her above the howling wind and rain, "I'm going to stay with the colonists to make sure the tram gets safely back to Aklyrr Bend," he says, "I can ease the weight of the train on the bridge until it's fully crossed over. Keep an eye on Mondrian as she heads to Kublop," he says, "take Cayde with you." There's a crease in his brow. He seems to know, even though he hadn't been in earshot when Mondrian (F) had said it had to do with her brother. Perhaps it wasn't hard to guess. He was supposed to have been on the tram too, but he hadn't been. The colonists, upon hearing Navi's instruction and Rykard's response, begin to hurry back onto the tram. "Everywhere important in Kublop," the inspector says, "The hospital, the public comms station, the general store, the power plant, the water reservoir, the pier... you get what I mean! The convent is at the bottom of the hill," he says, "we'll never make it back up! The street here is likely piled two stories deep in mud. Going high normally would be the right choice, but not here in Kublop. The tunnels were built to withstand flooding, and has a dam and drainage system all their own. The network was never fully built out because the Republic decided the project had become too expensive. But in years past, when the monsoon comes every year, a family or two managed to be rescued from the lower ends of town because of these tunnels. Now we have to hurry. I don't know how long the dam will last. It might be damaged already. This is one of the worst monsoons we've had in years..." 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' When Zetha and Thaarin exit the junkyard, they'll nearly be bowled over by the elements. Zetha will barely be able to see or breathe with all the rain and wind pummeling her. Thaarin doesn't let go of her hand, though, at least, and finally, they'll be able to just barely make out the roof of the convent from a distance. Thaarin mutters something in Cheunh. "It's already almost completely buried," he mutters. "We have to get down there, somehow." 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' If it was just them - it'd be less an issue. A monster of a Mandalorian. A skilled Mandalorian noble woman. No problem. But they have two wounded - one whom he's got to fight his instincts to just leave Kass to die - and a civilian.. Volken grimaces ..but there really is only one answer isn't it? "You all better be glad you got the Volken that's me and not the Volken that was about a year or two ago.." he grumbles. "Alright, let's move. Forward then. Fast as we can." 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     Ellari glances a Volken, still not certain about this. Should she really trust these people? It seems counterintuitive. "But if the dam breaks while we're down there...there will be no way out." she points out. "Especially since Volken is injured." 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' There's a moment taken to watch, for the heart to drop and stomach to twist. "...Are you sure we should risk it? What if we're already too late... I mean..." The convent is almost buried. If they go into that... "Thaarin I think we should go back...it's not worth risking more lives...including our own." Though she's still clinging to his hand, like he's the only lifeline she might have right now. 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' "I know." calls back Volken, "But if what he said about the mud is correct then we'd just be swept away by it trying to climb up from the outside. We'd be trying to climb up against the mud flow and water." 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "I will. Good luck, Master," Navi calls back to Master Rykard as the civilians hurry back aboard the tram. "May the Force be with you." "Cayde, come on! We need to catch up with Mondrian before her ship gets here!" she calls to Cayde, waving her arm over her head to get his attention, then jogging after Mondrian (F). 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde walks over the side of the bridge, watching as the rest of the burning trees falls down into the ravine below. Well, that was that. At least now the rest of the citizens had a better chance of getting back to safety.     As Navi begun to call him over, he turns to her and starts to follow. What was this going on with Mondrian (F)? 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' The inspector nods at Volken's words and starts after the behemoth, beginning to climb down to join him. "There's risks either way!" the inspector cries. "I can't make -you- do anything. But you are -not- taking Crane with you if you want to try flying out there. There's a small chance you might make it to the hospital, which is the most fortified building in town, but the boy will not last. Look at him!" True, he's barely conscious, and seems to barely be clinging to his life. Thaarin's scarlet eyes blaze with brazen certainty. "You can go back," he says to Zetha. "But listen to me. The possibility that you are never seeing Crane again is... high. At this rate, we're probably not even going to recover bodies. We probably are too late." He looks down at the convent again. "But it's not going to be for lack of trying. I'm going to cling to hope, even if the numbers contradict my likelihood of success." He suddenly lets go of her hand and taking out a thin grapple wire that Zetha probably never knew he carried, secures it to the only non downed lamppost nearby and starts to rappel down the mudhill. "May the Force be with you," And Rykard Force leaps away, onto the back of the tram, calling on the Force to lighten the burden of the weight of the tram on the bridge, so that the pilot can start back towards Aklyrr Bend. Mondrian (F) glances at Navi. "My ship has locked onto the slaver signal!" she shouts, "she'll be here... soon!" Cayde and Navi will be able to espy a tiny craft in the distance, making its way towards Mondrian erratically, but towards them nonetheless. 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     Ellari glances at Volken, and then back down at the hole, then at 'Crane'. She steps over to Volken and begins to dump the disciple on him. He can handle both of them, can't he? "Fine, you take him then."     And with that, she begins to activate her thrusters, aiming to take the high road. 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' Points out he's wounded in one moment. The next, she doubles his physical work load in getting out of this situation and goes on her own. Volken fumes - but there's no time to try and devote any energy towards snark or even worrying about dealing with her later. If she's going to take her chances that's her choice. "Come on! Lead the way. Hurry!" he calls out to the other man as he shoulders Crane on one shoulder and Kass on the other. "Let's go! Move!" 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha winces as Thaarin says the reality that they're facing, bringing it to life. Once he begins to repel down the mud mountain, she looks around quickly and finds a few things that she can quick mangle together to fashion a makeshift sled. After a couple breaths, she takes off down the mud mountain herself, praying she survives the fall to get to where they can help people the most. 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' Navi hurries up to Mondrian (F), slightly winded by the run. "Cayde will be along in a second or two," she says, watching the small ship approach. "So, why are you going back to Kublop Springs? Is it because of your brother? I noticed he wasn't on the tram, and he was supposed to be," she continues. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde approaches the two women as Mondrian's ship appears. He strains his gaze upward through the rain as it approaches, listening to Navi's questions and resisting the urge to simply enter her mind and find the answers himself. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' The inspector nods, and then starts to jog quickly towards a door in the back of the room that they're currently in. Once upon a time, it must have a place of peace, beauty and meditation. There's ornate, circular floor carving on the floor, and several statues in kneeling positions lining the walls. But they've all fallen down or are broken now. The inspector, coughing again, manages to tug the door open, revealing a dark tunnel ahead. There's a good couple of inches of water on the floor in the tunnel, but nothing they wouldn't be able to wade through. "Here, here!" he cries, motioning for Volken to hurry through once he's gone through himself. Crane groans softly. "...what's happening? I don't.. I don't remember anything..." As Thaarin descends the mud hill, the mud becomes slicker, and thicker, and by the time he reaches the bottom the mud is up to his shoulders, and he's barely able to keep himself from getting dogpiled by all the dirt and sludge. He just barely manages to grab onto the branch of a tree in the courtyard of the convent, but his grip on it is slipping. However, Zetha may be able to steer herself in his direction and help him up... if she gets there in time. Mondrian (F) just frowns and avoids Navi's question. "You're going to have to let me sit on your lap," she says as the ship gets nearer. "the ship is a one seater. Cayde is going to have to ride outside." Once the ship lands, Mondrian (F) doesn't waste any time. She tugs on Navi's arm. "Get in!" she rushes the Sephi girl. Ellari will find that the inspector is right. The weather is terrible, and trying to fly with her thrusters is very difficult with the wind and rain. Visibility is terrible too... 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "Wait, what?" Navi cries, blushing a little. "Geez... ordinarily I'd say to let Cayde ride inside and I'll hang on the outside... but I can see why that might be an issue. Maybe he could sit on your lap instead?" 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' "Just stay still and quiet." responds Volken to Crane, "No time to explain." No time to enjoy any of the art either. It's not likeley he'd have paid it much mind anyway. For now he just moves as quickly as he can after the Inspector whilet taking careful note of how high the water is and the sturdiness of the tunnels. Speed is of the essence here. The longer they take and the worse the storm gets the more they risk the dam giving way as they're trying ot escape. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde really wants to fly the ship himself. He doesn't get to fly ships that often. But it's not his ship, so he doesn't insist on anything, just waits for someone to make a decision about who should ride outside. 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     Ellari didn't expect it to be easy, but this was preferable to navigating tunnels she's never been through with the risk of dams breaking with no way out. She keeps the thruster power low, keeping her altitude just a few feet above the ground as she makes her way toward the port. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha's able to maneuver her makeshift sled down well enough. Though she sees Thaarin's grasp on a tree limb and shifts to slide near him so she can grab on and pull him from the muck. "Hang on..." Cause with the mud getting thick the sled's not going terribly fast but likely fast enough still. "Why do you always know what to say to put things in perspective? You're not doing this alone, Thaarin...I won't let you." 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "Are you kriffing kidding me?! -I'm- piloting. And I'm not sitting on his lap. Now get in! There's no time to argue about this!" She then looks to Cayde. "Get on the wing. I hope you know how to handle yourself." "... thank you," he whispers. There's a pause. "You're... limping. Why are you doing this?" The inspector continues to hurry ahead of them, taking a left once they get to an intersection. "Quick!" he cries, "there's not much time! But the hospital isn't far." As Ellari is attempting to make her way up the hill and towards the port, she might espy Zetha and Thaarin trying to get down to the convent. But she'll soon have other things to worry about. All of a sudden, someone is shooting at her. Someone above her, someone on one of the rooftops! Thaarin doesn't reply right away, he's about to drown in the mud. But as soon as Zetha pulls him up, he's able to stand up on the tree branch and pull Zetha onto it with him. Her mud sled slides away and disappears from sight, but at least they're out of the mud... for now. They do have to stand body to body though -- the branch isn't very wide or long. "Thank you," he says. "But now we have to get onto the roof --" However he's suddenly distracted by the shooting that's suddenly happening in the midst of this storm. "By the light...!" 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' Navi sighs irritably. "Sorry, Cayde... I tried," she says apologetically, climbing into the pilot's seat, and hoping the upholstery is waterproof... she's soaked from being out in the rain for so long. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde pouts slightly, disappointed at not getting to pilot, but he climbs onto the wing anyway. Though it is a bit surprising that Navi had suggested he pilot. She usually didn't want to give him the chance to do that kind of thing. 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' "I got shot and I'm carrying two full grown bodies by myself." remarks Volken, "Now stay quiet, alright??" This isn't time for twenty questions. Volken continues moving along, carrying foolish noble and disciple. One on each shoulder. He's got to conserve his strength, especially if things go wrong. Collapse later. Run now. 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     A couple of shots glance off of Ellari's armor, but a few more manage to hit her in the seams. She winces in pain at the blaster burns and curses in Mando'a under her breath, then twists around to face the direction the bolts came from. Her visor scans through the rain and hones in on a figure on a rooftop, and she fires straight back at it. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' At least Zetha's got decent balance and pressing herself against Thaarin so they're not about to fall off the branch. She nods her head to him and then looks to the roof and around when he mentions having to manage to get to the roof. Though before she can really get her thoughts straight those shots are heard from the roof of the convent and she tries to see if she can spot who's firing. "The kriff is going on now?!" 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Well, there -is- no upholstery, the seat is metal. Which is good, but also... uncomfortable. Especially when Mondrian sit down on Navi's lap. Her body is warm, at least. And she doesn't waste any time getting the ship into the air. Soon they're off towards Kublop - Cayde will have to utilize every inch of the Force to stay on - the wind is really doing a number on literally everything in its path! Crane obeys and doesn't say anything else after that, but reaches out weakly with one hand touches Volken on the neck almost affectionately. Ellari's shot knocks her assailant flat. The wind and rain won't help with visibility, but for a few seconds the Mandalorian woman may be deceived into thinking she'd taken care of whoever it was... no more shooting, and it's too rainy and dark to tell if they're still around or not. But then she'll notice a red and grey canister tumbling off the side of the rooftop where her assailant once had been. She won't be able to make out the logo on it, but the colors are telltale. Rhydonium. "Nevermind that," Thaarin says, shaking his head, "we're running out of time." He pushes some of the tree branches down to make a bridge onto the roof of the convent and helps Zetha across onto it, before crossing himself. That's when the explosion happens. It's earth shaking and earpiercing and probably nothing like Zetha has ever heard or experienced before. And Ellari? Hopefully she's thrown herself to the ground in time to avoid getting blasted to kingdom come. Down below, the ceiling shakes, and there's a horrible cracking sound. And then its raining rocks. Volken is going to have to try to find cover nearby, otherwise they're all getting pancaked. 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' Navi winces as she's suddenly, literally, pressed into the dual role of passenger and seat cushion! "This is more awkward than you know, Mondrian..." she says, blushing faintly. "I hope Cayde is okay..." 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' "Hey! This aint a first date kid. Keep your hands where I can see 'em!" Volken's got time for jokes apparently. "How much further?!" he yells at the Inspector. 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     Ellari doesn't stick around to see if her attacker is going to get back up again. As soon as he's down, she turns away again and starts flying back toward the port. Unfortunately that meant she didn't even see the barrel falling. The blast knocks her out of the air, and she goes sprawling down into the mudslide below. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde holds onto the wing of the ship as hard as he can, calling on the Force to help offset the pull of gravity and the wind. But then there's an explosion below, and the noise and shockwave distracted him for a second too long. The padawan loses his grip, and begins to plummet through the rain. He reaches out with the Force though, attempting to slow his fall so that he at least won't get splattered... 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha tries to help Thaarin as best she can, be it with balancing or trying to pull branches down into that makeshift bridge. Then there's an explosion and shaking and her ears ring like they're bursting from the insdie out. Her immediate knee-jerking response is to let go of branch and Thaarin both to hold her hands over her ears and crouch down but that's likely not the best action when trying to balance on a tree branch while also climbing across a branch bridge. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Mondrian (F) says softly. "I'm sorry," she says, "I hope I'm not hurting you." They're flying along at a pretty quick pace, hence Navi's remark, probably. "I hope so too. He's probably fine. Probably -- " And then there's the sound of the explosion, and the ship jilts as Cayde falls off. "Shit!" Mondrian says. She nosedives the ship to go after Cayde, shifting in the pilot chair uncomfortably. Navi's thigh may be pinched. "Sorry," Crane says. "Sorry--" he jerks his hand away suddenly. Volken won't get a response from the inspector. Up ahead, all he'll be able to see is collapsing rock, and then suddenly there's the sound of rushing water. The dam. It must have broken. Ellari will likely faceplant into the mud covering the street below her. Minutes later, a figure has dragged himself out into the street, limping badly, helmet shattered, armor torn. His left arm dangles uselessly at his side, but his right fist is balled as he approaches Ellari. But first, he'll try to kick her gun out of her hand. When the explosion happens Thaarin leaps forward onto the roof and slams Zetha down onto the rooftop. They'll avoid the brunt of the blast, as they're lying down on the roof and not too close to the rhydonium. But Zetha will feel a wave of heat pass over her, and her skull might hit the metal rooftop. "Zetha!" Thaarin says, "are you alright?!" 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha feels her skull thud against the metal rooftop just as she feels that wave of heat passing over her. Not to mention the pressue of Thaarin's body against her from slamming her against the rooftop. She seems like she's about to say something but no sound comes from her lips and she winces as she tries to move. Violet eyes shift to meet Thaarin's red gaze and all she manages is a weak shake of her head to try and say she is not alright. 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' Great. There's literally not much he can do other than to keep moving forward and hope that they'll find what they need in just a few short steps. Out running rushing water is out of the question but if it's near, and they have their head start, they may yet make this. Volken lifts one of his arms as much as he can without dropping either Crane or Kass, and he begins priming his repulsor gauntlets. He might be able to collapse part of the tunnel behind them if the water begins rushing towards them but he needs to wait.. There's always the risk of bringing everything down on their heads. "I said how much further!? We're out of time!" 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "Not really," Navi replies, still blushing faintly, her voice slightly strained from being used as a seat cushion. "But do you remember how I asked you to dance once, months ago?" She winces at the explosion, and the buffeting of the ship from the blast wave. There's a blur of cloth past the side viewport, and she almost lunges against it, staring wide-eyed. "Cayde, nooo!" she cries, only to be crushed against the seat as Mondrian (F) nosedives after Cayde. Her right thigh in particular is pressed right up against the side of the cockpit, hard enough that she gets that pins-and-needles sensation down her leg... 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     Ellari's head is reeling from the explosion, and it takes her a few moments to get her bearings again--just in time to see a ragged figure approaching her, useless arm dangling at his side.     "You dini'la--!" she growls as he attempts to kick her rifle away. Instead, her arm curls away from his foot and she rolls to the side, drawing one of her pistols and firing at him. With that busted helmet, she goes straight for the head. She doesn't care who he is. He attacked her and is hell-bent on killing her for some reason, in spite of the raging storm. Clearly a madman this galaxy could do better without. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Through the blinding rain, it may be difficult if not impossible to spot Cayde, as he's fallen through some trees. Fortunately, they helped break his fall so that the Force didn't have to do as much work as it may have had to otherwise. Still, that didn't mean it didn't hurt...especially since he happened to land with one of his hands twisted awkwardly under his body. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Still, no response from the inspector. In fact, Volken won't even be able to see him anymore? The rocks finally stop falling, but Volken will see that the tunnel is blocked off now, on both ends. And water's leaking in. Very slowly, but leaking in, nonetheless. He could try blasting through, but that might cause another cave that might crush them all. Volken will feel Crane wiggling free, onto the ground. He can't walk, but he's hastily crawling towards something or someone on the ground? Oh no, it's the inspector. He's lying on the ground, bloodied. "By the gods, he's... he's not responding. He's dying. Volken, what do we do? What's happening? How did we get here..." Crane says desperate, the panic in his voice evident. Mondrian takes them down immediately, landing next to Cayde and rushing out of the ship as soon as they land. "Cayde, by the light, are you okay? Let me look at you," She looks to Navi, desperation and fear in her voice. "You need to go find out what that explosion was. Kublop isn't far. Please..." Thaarin's expression becomes grieved. "I shouldn't have let you come with me," He says softly, touching her cheek gently. "Stay up here," he says, "I'm going in." He picks up a nearby rock, heads for the nearest sky light, shatters it, and then slowly lowers himself in. Ellari's first shot grazes the non shattered side of his helmet, but the other sears the left side of his temple, blackening the whole side of his head. The third hits his shoulder, and he cries out in pain, but is relentless. "Don't kriff around with my sister!" he screams, raging. "Don't you touch her!" Then he aims at the fuel tank of her jet thrusters, and fires twice, in an attempt to ignite them. 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     "I don't know who the hell your sister is! I don't even know who -you- are!" Ellari shouts. The bolts strike the fuel tank, and a leak immediately starts. She scrambles to her feet and immediately disengages the maglocks, before throwing the entire assembly straight at him, aiming to give him a taste of his own medicine.     "All I know is that you're messing with the -wrong- Mandalorian." she growls. 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "All right..." Navi groans, levering herself out of the pilot's seat, her right leg feeling stiff and sluggish, at least for the moment as she makes her way to Cayde's side. "I just need to take care of something first..." Laying her hands on Cayde's shoulders, she reaches deep into the Force within him, tweaking its flow and redirecting its energies to knit injuries, take away pain, and heal Cayde's wounds, if there are any. "That should do it. Take good care of Cayde." Rising, she sways on her feet for a moment, between her leg and a moment of weariness, then starts off toward where she'd seen the explosion, limping briefly before her leg began to feel more normal, at which point her gait becomes a more normal jog. 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' "There's a bad storm happening. A dam may have broke and so we might have water rushing in towards us from...behind I think. We can't go backwards. We need to get through here. We'll suffocate if we just stay here. Or the water will get through or the tunnel will just collapse anyway." Volken pauses to look over the inspector. He could carry the weight of three people but he's only got ...well two arms. And with the Inspector in the condition he's in they certainly don't have too many options here. "I'm gonna need to try and burst through. If youg ot some sorcery handy and are strong enough to use it, now's the time." With that, he sets Kass down and steps forward to inspect the fallen rocks on the way forward, attempting to sus out the best places for him to start to punch through without bringing the rest of the wall ontop of them all. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde gets to his feet, grimacing in pain although he does his best to hide it. But he's holding his left hand with his right, and the two women will see that his wrist is broken. Although he still nods when Mondrian asks if he's all right.     Fortunately, Navi is able to actually make that true. But as soon as that's done, he immediately hurries after Navi in the direction the explosion had been heard. He can take care of himself, thank you! 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Thankfully, Navi will be able to make it to Kublop uneventfully (well, aside from all the wind and rain). Mondrian (F) had been close in tow, but by the time she's reached the central plaza, she'll have lost track of both of them. Perhaps it had been intentionally on Mondrian's (F) part, and Cayde, well, he had a habit of disappearing at the wrong place, wrong time. Nonetheless, her comm crackles to life, and she'll find herself being hailed by Thaarin. The signal's patchy, but she'll be able to at least hear a bit of what he's saying. "<--Did you hear? *static* Rykard? There's a *static* near the convent. *static* They're trapped. It's buried..>" Meanwhile, Jorn is probably sheltering somewhere, watching the rain pour down and listening to the wind howl. He might have heard a thing or two about the annual monsoons on Tenoo, and noticed the weather reports streaming in at the local cantinas. He might also be wondering where his tentatives allies are. Or he might not be. Regardless, wherever he is and whatever it is he's thinking about, will be interrupted by the sound of aggressive banging. "Jorn. Jorn! Haar'chak! What are you doing? It's me, Er'gi." 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' Navi taps her earpiece, pausing to get her bearings before heading in the general direction of the convent. << Thaarin? It's Navi! Please repeat your message? Also, did you hear an explosion? There may have been one close to you! >> she broadcasts. 

:'''{{#var:418|Jorn (418)}} has posed:''' Jorn's eyes narrow under helm as he hears the voice. It's not until he receives confirmation from the cameras that this is indeed Vol's brother in arms. The door whever he shelted. "What are you doing out like that?" he asks thinking there probably has to be a reason for it. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha isn't going anywhere. At least not for the foreseeable future and while Thaarin regrets choices and goes to try and find people. Zetha may die, but it's a sacrifice she's apparently willing to make. Unwillingly. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "<Oh thank the light!>" There's a lot more static, and Navi won't catch any of what Thaarin says next, but then there's, "--alright. Zetha's on the roof of the convent. *static* --get past all of it. I'm heading to the general store>" "What are -you- doing in here, sitting on your ass, you di'kut!" the other Mandalorian roars. "You didn't hear? Volken and Ellari are trapped in the basement of the convent and it's almost completely buried in mud." "Kass fled to the convent and took a couple of civilians hostage there. They went in after him, but then the storm started up..." Moments later, Zetha will see Thaarin coming out of the skylight he'd broken earlier. He's shaking his head. "There's no way down," he says, "we have to hope they made it to the tunnels below. Come. We can access them from the general store down the street." The problem is, the street down below is not traversable. They'd have to make their way across rooftops, but some of the leaps from building to building are... ambitious. 

:'''{{#var:418|Jorn (418)}} has posed:''' That's when Jorn will start to head off. He'll grab one of the communicators, none of his own. Taking a few messages to Volken and Ellari. Simple messages that read, "Status." And then he waits for guidance by Volken's friend. "Lead the way," as Jorn does not know the way. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' There's slowly sitting up that happens, and Zetha rubs the back of her head. She's likely going to be feeling that one for a couple days now. As she sees Thaarin coming back from where he came there's the lofting of an eyebrow and then she shifts to try and stand up. "You mean the street that we can travel across? How do you propose we get anywhere from where we are now? We're lucky we're even HERE at the moment." She looks around once again and then sighs. "This is the worst I've ever seen it..." 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' << On the /roof of the convent/? What is she doing on the roof? Is the flooding that bad? >> Navi asks over the comms, picking up her pace. Soon she finds some high ground overlooking the convent. << Okay, now I see why you're up there. I'm going to find some transportation and a rope ladder. Some way to get you two off of that roof! I'll be back as quick as I can! >> She hurries deeper into Kublop Springs. "I need something with some passenger space and repulsorlifts... at this point I'd even deal with that grumpy Bothan!" 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "I doubt they'll get your messages," Er'gi grunts, following Jorn out. He'll then easily overtake him, and lead the way out in the rain and wind. It's terrible, and Jorn will have a hard time just staying on his feet! But at least Er'gi is hard to miss, and if he walks right behind him, some of the wind and rain will be blocked by his massive form. The two Mandalorians then start heading for the convent. "<The convent is buried>" Thaarin tells Navi. "<Thank you, but please hurry>" Navi will find herself running past the pier. Most of the boats are completely mired in the mud and water, but there's one small hoverboat not 100 percent buried yet, and it has a coil of rope and an anchor stored aboard it. But Navi will have to Force leap her way to it - most of the pier is flooded! "We are lucky," Thaarin says, sitting down on the roof next to Zetha. "Navi's coming. She's going to try to find some rope and something with a repulsorlift. If things go favorably for her, we'll be able to make it to the general store." 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' Navi makes her way past the river pier as she heads toward the center of town. Just by chance she spots a hoverboat that isn't flooded or buried completely. << Thaarin, I found a hoverboat that looks intact. I'm going to see if I can reach you from the water, >> she says over the comms. One look at the pier almost changes her mind, however; it's mostly flooded and swaying back and forth from the current. "The pilings look intact... and steady. I guess I just found my way across!" She makes her way to the hoverboat with several impressive, borderline superhuman leaps, eventually landing on the boat's rear passenger deck. Fortunately, the controls at the helm console are clearly labeled. A little work with the control console gets the drain pump working, to get any standing water out of the boat. "Okay... still has power. Now let's get the engine running and see if we're in business," she muses. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "Remind me to thank her later..." Zetha says before sloughing some of the water off her arms - as if that's going to help anything. "I just hope everyone is okay. The aftermath will likely be a kriffing nightmare though.." Dealing with the damage, which means likely helping around town doing repairs and the like. Making sure people are alive - at the least - and recover okay. She looks over to Thaarin after a moment. "Doesn't exactly make for the best reunion, does it?" 

:'''{{#var:418|Jorn (418)}} has posed:''' Jorn tries to figure out where to go from his current location to the general area of where the others are. His attention focused on getting there. He knows it'll be like trying to find a piece of plasteel burried in the sands of Tatooine. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "<You did? Perfect!> Thaarin's brows shoot up in relieved surprise, and he looks over at Zetha. "We're in luck. She found a working hoverboat... hopefully she'll be here soon," he says. Thaarin just smiles reassuringly at her and reaches for her hand. "Better than nothing. It's going to be alright," he says soothingly. Navi -is- in luck, it would appear, the Force is shining upon her today. The hoverboat hums to life, and drain pump starts pumping all the excess water out of it. However, it is still a little bit mired, and struggling to free itself from the runny mud below it. A little help from the Force would get it out, and Navi on her way. Er'gi presses on, leading the way. Soon, the convent is in sight, but it's not a welcome one - Er'gi had been right. The entire thing except the roof is buried. "Har'chaak! There's no way we're getting that way..." A gust of wind then nearly blows them both off their feet. "Ehh. Quick, up here," Er'gi says to Jorn, making his way over to a building with a ladder on the side. "I need a minute to think, and if we stay down there we'll be swallowed by the mud in no time." 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha lets Thaarin take her hand and she smiles at him as he speaks reassurances. "I really hope you're right, Thaarin..." She offers this much while shifting to pull her knees into her chest, wrapping her other arm around her legs. Trying very hard to not show she's as worried as she is. Fearful of a lot of things. Confused by a couple. 

:'''{{#var:418|Jorn (418)}} has posed:''' Jorn checks over his person thinking of maybe some kind of cable line. Something that could act as a grapple line. That could be a way to get to the top of the building. Try to avoid all of the mud that would drag him down to the bottom. That's at least where his head is at. 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' Navi gives a little whoop of joy as the power comes up and the repulsorlift engine hums to life. The hoverboat wallows slightly, but doesn't move, and she discovers that the sucking mud is miring the boat in place. "Let's hope this works..." she murmurs, reaching deep inside herself and beginning to call upon the Force, tweaking its flow between the water, the mud, the land, and herself... The hoverboar comes free with a sudden surge that almost spills her into the bottom of the boat with a squeal of fright. Once she recovers from the shock, she lets out a louder whoop of joy and turns the hoverboat toward the convent. << Thaarin! I'm headed your way now! I should be there in a minute or two! >> 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Thaarin doesn't reply to Zetha, but less than a second later, hope glimmers in his eyes. "I can see Navi,"he says, standing, "she's coming." Er'gi is halfway up the building when he, too, spots Navi coming towards the convent from a distance away. "Jorn! Wayii! Someone's coming in a hoverboat." He points at Navi approaching the hoverboat. "We may be saved. Let's see if she can get us somewhere more helpful than here." He then climbs back down, and hurries towards the young Sephi girl, glancing briefly back at Jorn to beckon him to follow. Navi will find herself quickly within sight of the convent, and will just barely be able to see Thaarin standing on top of it, waving at her. The rain has let up a tiny bit, though the wind will make steering the hoverboat a bit difficult. She'll also be able to see Er'gi trying to make his way towards her, nearly getting sucked down by the mud with every step he takes. 

:'''{{#var:418|Jorn (418)}} has posed:''' "Got room for more?" he asks about the hoverboat and Navi. The attention focused on the bare trying to see how many it could fit. What they would need to do to help stay afloat, if anything. His attention just going between the craft and various thoguhts. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "Good..." Zetha offers, shifting to try and stand up again. Against the wind, she's at least thankful that the rain has let up some. It's still not going to bode well for the aftermath but in the moment it's at least a little glimmer of something good on the horizon. 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "Ahoy, on the shore!" Navi calls back to Jorn, recognizing him from the lightsaber lesson. "Yes, we have room! Actually might need your help to save two friends, so if you can jetpack this far, come on! Just be careful not to land too hard in this wind!" She guides the hoverboat in as close to the shore as she dares, turning out just a bit if she feels the hull coming up against mud on the left side, which is the side facing Jorn. << Thaarin? I'm picking up some help! We should be on to assist you two in just another minute! >> 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "Yes, thank you!" Er'gi says to Navi. "Ah.. Co Deputy Valrennan. I know I haven't always seen eye to eye with the Republic, but your help is most appreciated. Our vod Volken and our other ally, Ellari, is trapped below the convent. We're trying to find a way to them... we Mandalorians are tough, but this weather would wear anyone down." He steps aboard the hoverboat, and it creaks under his weight but doesn't topple. He then steps aside to allow Jorn aboard. Thaarin frowns when Navi says she's picking up help. "<Right. See you soon>" He turns to Zetha. "I have a feeling we're going to have be working alongside the Mandalorians. I don't know anyone else who would be crazy enough to be out and about in this weather..." Meanwhile, down below, Crane nods weakly at Volken, and the other Mandalorian will commence his search for a weak point somewhere in the wall of rocks surrounding them. Crane will do his best to take Volken's advice. He reaches out into the Force, trying to either contact either Navi or Cayde... 

:'''{{#var:418|Jorn (418)}} has posed:''' Jorn will do what is necesary. Just a simpel back pack motion over to the waiting barge. His attention focused on just making it on board. "What he said. We need help assisting our allies," Jorn doesn't want to call them friends. They really haven't had that conversation. Allies feels like an appropriate term. "How bad is it?" he figures that Navi has a better sense of things. That would be an inisght Jorn doesn't have at the moment. 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' "Just...stand back.." Volken sets Kass down, flopping him against one of the walls near the Inspector whom he then leans over to make sure he's not laying face down in a pool of rising water. He utters a few choice words in Man'doa under his breath, muffled even more by his helmet, and then leans in to take a closer look at the rocks. HIs gauntled hands reach out to test the sturdiness of the collapsed stone.. Pushing here, pushing there nad then...eventually he finds what he's looking for. Or so he hopes. "Just....stay clear." he tells Crane before bracing himself. He then hauls back, calling to him every ounce of his genetically modified strength... and he swings, plowing his enormous fist forward for the stone and, hopefully, freedom. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha shakes her head. "I haven't known much of anything since my last run in with Jasper...which turned into a catastrophe...next thing I know the monsoons here and you're coming telling me Crane was taken hostage." She pauses. "I don't know if you've heard about what happened at the clinic...but not a lot of it was good." 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "Welcome aboard, Jorn, Er'gi. I wish I could tell you more," Navi replies, guiding the hoverboat a little farther from shore and into the navigation channel, moving toward the convent. "The convent looks like it's been buried under a mudslide, or almost, and Thaarin and Zetha are stranded on the roof. If anyone else is in there, I don't know where they are." She steers closer to shore as they approach the convent. "If I get us any closer, we're likely to run aground. Jorn, can you carry another person while using that jetpack of yours?" she asks. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Er'gi nods. "We'll help you," he says to Navi. "I'm sure Volken is among those you're looking for." Rocks start to crumble beneath Volken's massive strength. He'll be able to feel them raining down upon his head and shoulders, but nothing so massive that he can't ignore. The cave isn't collapsing, at least. He'll start to make good progress - but as he continues punching he'll see that this wall of rock barricading them in is deeper than it looks. "I heard of it," Thaarin says solemnly. "Things will get better, I'm sure. We'll make it through this. Look, Navi's here," He says, gesturing towards the young Sephi girl piloting the hoverboat nearer to them. "I'm going to jump. If you don't feel you can make it --" his lips press into a thin line, as he watches Navi address Jorn. He can't really hear what they're saying, but it isn't hard to guess. He doesn't really like the idea of Jorn helping her, but they don't have a lot of options at the moment. He then takes the leap, landing on the starboard of the hoverboat. It rocks, but doesn't topple. Meanwhile, when Ellari throws her jetpack at her armored attacker, his arms go in front of his face and it clips his elbow. There's less than a second before the jetpack explodes into sparks and shrapnel... 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     Ellari does her best to jump away from the thrusters when she throws them, but the shockwave still knocks her over. Hopefully, it knocked -him- harder, though. Still, it takes her a moment to gather her wits and get back up, drawing both of her blaster pistols this time. However, she doesn't try to run. This man was clearly a maniac, and if he wasn't unconscious or dead, he was sure to be after her again.     Besides, a Mandalorian never runs from a fight. 

:'''{{#var:418|Jorn (418)}} has posed:''' "If they hold on tight," he says openly. It may tkae a little bit of effort. It's harder than it looks to adapt to a second party with a backpack like that. Not impossible. Just harder than most realize. "Who do I need to haul?" he asks openly. Jorn knows that any mando help may not be welcomed with open arms. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde had been following Navi toward the convent, but had lost her in the blinding rain. And many of the buildings were almost wrecked beyond recognition. So he's left with reaching through the Force in search of anyone around town who might need assistance... 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' No, no, this won't do. There's some success here, but not enough. He can do better. He has to if they're to get out of here faster. "Mm.." rumbles Volken before gathering his zeal up once again and this time bracing his enormous frame against the ground. He waits, as if building up momentum from some internal engine that he's firing up more and more ... and then he lunges forward, lowering his shoulders and attempting now a tremendous crash to try and plow forward through what remains of the collapsed boulders before him. 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' Navi has to grab onto the controls as the boat rocks under Thaarin's landing. "Well, okay... that's one safe aboard. Jorn, do you think you could get Zetha? She shouldn't be any heavier than me," she says. "Thaarin, if you feel up to it, could you take the helm? I know you're a better driver than me." 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha would normally attempt to make the jump. She's agile - kinda has to be - because of how she tends to work on things in the junkyard. However, her throbbing head has her listening to reason and she looks at the craft and then to the Mandalorian being spoken to. "I'll take the help if you can manage... I don't think I can make that jump right now..." 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' When Ellari gains her wits, she'll find herself waist deep in mud. The rain might have let up a little, but the wind hasn't, and the muddy waters are still rising. The man who had been attacking her is nowhere in her immediately line of sight, but that didn't necessarily mean he was dead, or unconscious... Thaarin looks up at Zetha, nodding at Navi's comment and suggestion. He then moves towards the helm of the hoverboat. The explosion from Ellari's jetpack can be heard from where they're standing, although the noise is muted. "We'd better hurry," Thaarin says to Jorn gravely. "Get her, carefully. And then let's head to the general store. The tunnels are accessible from there." Cayde will be able to detect Crane's presence, deep underground. The tunnel network below Kublop! He must have been down there. But getting down there might be hard. More rocks rain down on Volken. But his tremendous crash makes significant progress. He'll be able to tell he's crossed some kind of threshold. It wouldn't be much more after this - he'll be able to see dim streaks of light leaking through the rock barricade. But just as he's about to finish up, he'll heard the disciple calling his name out weakly. "Volken.... Volken! Please..." 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde frowns, focusing on Amarik's presence and attempting to discern more about his location and situation. Why was he down there, wouldn't it be flooded? Was he alone, was he injured? 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "Wait a sec... Thaarin, what are these tunnels, and why do we need to go there?" Navi asks Thaarin. "Are there other sentients trapped in them or something like that?" 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     Ellari curses and fires raises one of her pistols, firing a grappling line attached to it toward the top of the building the rhydonium had been thrown off of. Perhaps she'd be able to find out more about who was so hell-bent on killing her and what 'sister' this was. 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' "We're almost out!" calls Volken, seeing the way to freedom ahead of them. He turns around, looking back through the dust and the tunnel to look for Crane, Kass and the Inspector. "Come on! Hold it together!" 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Once on the hoverboat, Zetha finds a spot and sits. "Thank you." She offers this to Jorn before giving a smile to Navi. "Not that this is the best time ever but it's really good to see you, Navi." Offering at least that much before hugging her knees again and resting her forehead against her lap. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Cayde won't be able to find out much, it would appear that Amarik is concussed, very injured, and rather hazy on what was happening, where he was, or what had happened to him. Volken was with him, and another unconscious Mandalorian whose name he didn't know. Somehow, where he is, isn't completely flooded. There's a few inches of water on the ground, but the place isn't submerged. Thaarin looks relieved once Zetha reaches the hoverboat. "Are you alright?" he asks. Then, to Navi, he says, "There's a tunnel network below Kublop. It was an old Republic project that was abandoned, an attempt to build the tram system below ground. However, it became too expensive due to the fact that dams and extensive drainage systems had to be built in order to sustain the railway in case of the annual weather event that often caused massive flooding. In recent years, the citizens of Kublop use it for evacuation in times like these. I think the inspector and Zetha's boyfriend, Crane, are down there, with two other Mandalorians. Well..." he trails off. "If they're alive. That's where they would be." "Then let's not waste another moment," Er'gi says, "we should head to the general store immediately." The mud will suck at Ellari as she pulls herself up. The visibility up higher isn't very good, and the man who had been attacking her still is nowhere to be seen. But then suddenly, on a building with a higher rooftop, she'll hear some movement, above the din of the howling rain. Kass seems fine. Still passed out, but still pretty much in the same condition he'd found him in. The disciple and the inspector, however...are a different story. The rocks that had been falling earlier must have been falling down over where they had been too, and the disciple is lying on the ground in a pool of his own blood, two new gashes on his shoulder and neck. The inspector isn't breathing. "He's...dead," the disciple says of the inspector. There's a pause, as he gathers the strength to speak. He's in really bad shape, probably dying. But he's still conscious, somehow, so maybe there's hope yet. "I want...you to save yourself. And your friend," he says. "And I wanted to say thank you..." he weakly reaches up and presses something into the palm of Volken's hand. It's a soggy white flower. "And good bye." The mammoth Mandalorian will be faced with a choice, now. He could do as the disciple instructed, and continue punching the rocks, and be in the clear in less than ten minutes. He and Kass, with their beskar, would be able to handle the falling rocks just fine. But the disciple, injured and helpless, would be crushed and killed in the process. He could stop. And wait, and pray, and hope, that someone would find them in time. Or... he could give the disciple some of his beskar. But that went against every Mandalorian tradition and way ingrained into him as a child. Not to mention that the falling rocks would then hurt -him-. They wouldn't kill him, but it would certainly hurt. 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' Of course that might happen. The fact that the falling rocks might cascade backwards hadn't even crossed his mind. They didn't call out right away so he figured everything was fine. He would have stopped but it's too late now. There's no time for regrets or for second guessing. Even if the Insepctor might be dead he's still not leaving the body here. As for Crane? Volken's never been one for tradition. He immediately pulls his helmet off and then promptly slumps it down over Cranes head.. "Shut up." As quickly as possible he starts to unstrap his torso armor, his massive physique seemingly enlarging as he does, as if the beskar does more work holding him in then it does protecting him. "You're going to live." Volken -left- Mandalore because of feuds and politics and traditions that led to his foster fathers death. Lived the life of a mercenary vababond for years. Refused to return home. Was seen as a dog by the pure blooded ones. Tradition be damned. He hurridly works to strap the armor onto Crane, taking care as much as possible to avoid exaggerating the wounds... and then proceeds to reach down to sling Kass over one shoulder, scope Crane up under one arm and The Inspector under the other. "We're leaving." 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde sighs. Why was it always like this? Amarik certainly wasn't the sort who couldn't defend himself, so how exactly had he landed himself in this situation? Anyway, he just keeps trying to focus harder on the Tholothian's presence, and make his way toward it, Force leaping his way across rocks, buildings, and other objects to get over the mud. He has no idea where any entrances into the underground are and can only hope he can find a way down there. 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     Apparently Ellari's attacker has decided not to keep attacking just yet, But now she's stranded without her jetpack. However, this rooftop seems to be not overwhelmed by mud just yet. She heard the noise, so she gets behind cover, in case he tries to renew his hostilities. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha shakes her head gently but then contradicts it with "I'm fine." A pause. "I'll be fine. I've hurt myself worse. Let's just get to the tunnels so we can find the ones from the convent." Not that she's going to go into any further details than that, and her words are likely a bit muffled since she's talking mostly to her lap. 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "I'm not going to stand in the way of saving lives. Find us a good, solid spot to tie up the boat, away from the mud, and let's head for the general store," Navi replies to Thaaren. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "Wh--What are you doing..." Crane protests weakly. "You'll--" But then Volken's helmet goes over his head. If it weren't for their grave circumstances, Volken might find it humorous how tiny the disciple is compared to his beskar. The helmet alone covers both his head and shoulders and the chestplate reaches to his knees. Now, there was just one last thing to do now - give the rocks he'd been pounding a few solid kicks, and then they'd be through. Cayde will eventually find himself where the others are headed - the general store. He'll espy Thaarin piloting the hoverboat, carrying Zetha, Navi, Jorn, and Er'gi. Thaarin is doing as Navi had instructed and piloting it towards an area close to the general store that had something sturdy enough to moor a hoverboat to. Meanwhile, no shots will be fired at Ellari, but a massive pile of debris out of nowhere comes crashing down towards her! 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde wonders why they are headed there but maybe there is something he needs to help with. He leaps over toward the store, looking for a way down into the tunnels. Amarik and Volken had to be down there. It then occurs to him to wonder why Amarik is with Volken and injured, but not yet dead. 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' Navi climbs onto the bow of the hoverboat, rope in hand, as the vessel approaches the general store. Half-kneeling there, she ties one end of the rope to a mooring cleat and holds the other ready. "Bring her in nice and steady! Eyes on the terrain, not my bum!" she calls back to Thaarin. The moment the hoverboat comes to a stop, she scrambles down from the bow and secures the vessel to a stoutly-built light pole. "Everybody out! Let's go find those Mandalorians!" 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha looks up when the boat comes to a stop and then stands up with a bit of a wobble to her stance before walking forward to get off the boat. She'll stay in the back of the group to try and be out of the way. Sort of just there for moral support if it's needed. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Thaarin seems amused. "Now, why would you say that?" he teases playfully when Navi instructs him to keep his eyes on the terrain not her bum. Regardless, he steers the hoverboat successfully, albeit with some difficulty towards a massive ceiling rafter that's sticking out of the mud near the general store. "Careful," Thaarin says as everyone starts to disembark,"this area doesn't exactly look like an easy tread..." And he's right. The parking lot in front of the general store is covered in debris and mud. Probably not a problem for Navi, as she can Force leap, but for the others it might prove tricky. When Thaarin notices Cayde heading their way, he waves him down. "Over here," he says to Cayde. "We're probably going to need your help." When it comes time for Zetha to disembark, Thaarin offers her a hand. "Think you can make it inside?" he asks cautiously. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde makes his way over to them as Thaarin waves him down.     He looks them over, relieved to find they seem to be more or less all right. [How do I help] he asks. [Are you going down] 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' There's a moment where Zetha looks to Thaarin and to where they're headed and she wonders if she should bow out. But Crane's in danger let along the other Mandalorians and such. If she didn't try to help, why is she even here? "I think I can make it...I'm certainly going to try no matter what." 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' Navi watches Cayde approach as she finishes securing the boat. "Yes, Cayde, we're going into the tunnels," she replies. "There's a chance that some of the sentients that were in the convent were able to escape into them. Did you ever find the source of that explosion we saw earlier?" She waits for Cayde's answer, drawing upon the Force and manipulating its flows between herself and the muddy ground. Then she leaps, covering more than twenty feet to get clear of the debris field in front of the general store. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "Your saber," he says, glancing over at the general store, "we're likely going to have to do some... strategic cutting in order to get to the entry to the tunnels below Kublop," he says with a nod. "But don't do anything until I tell you to," he instructs the padawan carefully. Thaarin nods at Zetha. "Let's go, then," He says, "but be careful." He steps out of the hoverboat and motions for her to follow him. Navi will find that getting inside the general store might prove tricky. The front door is completely blocked by debris and mud. And the sign on the front of the store has half collapsed - if she cut through here with her saber, it might cause a landslide of debris off the roof. although it does look like there's probably multiple ways to get in, they just need to look around for a spot where cutting wouldn't cause collapse and masses of sliding debris. 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "Well, we're not getting in through the front door... you can barely tell this place ever /had/ a front door," Navi observes, beginning to search the area around the building. Within a few minutes she has better luck. "Over here!" she calls from the left side of the building as she unstows her lightsaber. "It looks like we can safely cut our way in through here!" 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde follows Navi over to the identified location, drawing his lightsaber and immediately starting to cut through the debris as best he can. So much for waiting for Thaarin to instruct him, of course. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha nods to Thaarin and offers him as confident a smile as she can muster. "After you..." Offering this and she will follow Thaarin's lead, keeping up and steady on her feet as best she can. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Thaarin frowns at Navi's reply, looking concerned, watching as she goes around to the left side of the building and finds a better entry way into the general store.  Thaarin arches a brow at Cayde when he unsheathes his saber, as he hadn't told him to use it yet. But he doesn't comment. He makes his way towards the general store, making sure Zetha is close behind him. Navi is successful at cutting away the debris covering the second entry, and soon they're inside. But inside isn't much better than outside. Crushed cans of beans, raw nuna legs falling out of ripped pouches, soggy ration bars, spilt blue milk, and broken glass covers the floor. Not to mention that there's little to no lighting in there. Parts of the ceiling has caved in as well, and there are knocked over shelves everywhere.  "The entry to the tunnels will be in the back," Thaarin says, trying to peer through the doom and gloom. "I know it's not visible from here. But I'm sure it's there." Somehow, despite carrying three people and being injured, Volken will be able to plow through the last of the rock barrier in front of him. A few pebbles will fall onto the gargantuan Mandalorian's shoulders, but he probably won't feel them. When the dust settles, he'll find himself standing in front of a tunnel that's mostly in the clear. Where would it lead him? Who knew, but he couldn't stay, that was for certain. Water is already starting to pool around his ankles. 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' Navi keeps her lightsaber lit, to let its bluish-white glare light the immediate area. "Step carefully... there's all kinds of junk all over the floor. Some of it's broken glass." 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' If it's pooling around his ankles - it means it'd be near knee high to anyone else so...time to move. That's right. He is injured. He took that shot from Kass earlier. The man is so huge and preternaturally durable that he basically forgot about the blaster wound in the middle of everything else... He'll have to beat Kass within an inch of his life after he makes sure he survives this... "Alright.." he grumbles, dark hair matted to his body now and his trim beard draining water from as his brow furrows. "Let's ...keep going." With that, he starts moving ahead, making his way through the tunnel as quickly as he can. Ah that's right>Ellari abandoned him. He'll have to beat her up as well. That gives him that much more energy to keep moving. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Of course the place is a mess. Cayde sighs and focuses on the obstacles before them, then starts attempting to carefully move everything aside, toward the outer walls in a way that will not cause anything to fall on top of them. A collapsed shelf rights itself, and scoots across the floor toward the wall, whilst broken glass, spilled food and other debris slide away toward the corners of the shopping area. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha just tries to keep pace with Thaarin, watching the ground as they walk since someone said there was debris everywhere. Seeing the state of the convent tugs at her, and she hopes - and perhaps silently prays to the Force - that everyone who was in the convent was able to get to safety. "I hope everyone is okay..." 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Thaarin nods at Navi's instruction, taking care not to step on anything that might puncture his boots, and keeping a close eye on Zetha to make sure that she doesn't either. He gives Zetha a faint smile. "I hope so too. I hope so too..." But this expression expression becomes a bit more somber when Cayde starts moving things around. Somewhere, there's a crash, although nothing immediately falls down on any of them. "Cayde, be careful," he warns the padawan. He then motions to Navi. "I think the entrance is in the warehouse in the back," he says, pointing. They'll just barely be able to make a pair of sliding doors covered in debris. The environment around it looks... precarious. Like if they move or cut anything, the entire building might collapse. "Let me take a closer look." He glances back at Zetha. "I might need your help," he adds. Crane groans weakly, the only conscious being Volken is carrying. "...yes," he says weakly. "I... I believe in you." Soon, Volken will come to an intersection. He's going to have to make a decision about which way to go, but whatever he decides, he should do it fast. The water is rising, still. Two of the tunnels branching out are unlit. The other has some light, but Volken will be able to tell that the ground above has caved in places above the tunnel. It could be risky, but was dark better? 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "Thanks, Cayde. At least now we can get into the back," Navi observes, stepping into the warehouse area. And stopping, lightsaber foremost, studying the area. "Swell. Looks like it's going to be a lot harder to clear this out than the front. Cayde, don't touch anything yet. It looks like half the roof will fall in if some of this stuff's disturbed." She is able to pick her way closer to the doors, but not to clear them, and holds her lightsaber in a way to allow Thaarin and Zetha to be able to see the area clearly. 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' Dark had to be it. Even with the armor on, another cave in woudl probably finish off his passengers and Volken would be in no condition to stop i it or deal with it. Without the inspector to guiide them, he has to take a chance and just continue moving. If it was just one of them he could risk running or even find somethihg to try and prop the roof up but right now it's a risk even he's unwilling to take. "Alright, gimme somma that Canto BIght luck.." he grumbles before dipping into one of hte dark tunnels with his passengers. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Too late, Cayde is already trying to move the debris away from the entrance to the tunnels. Well he had already been doing this as they made their way toward the warehouse, and it only seemed a natural extension of that. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "Cayde! Navi said don't touch--!" but it's too late, Cayde is shoving things aside, and suddenly, part of the roof is caving in. "Zetha, look out!" Thaarin just barely manages to avoid the falling roof tiles, reaching for Zetha's wrist and attempting to yank her aside as well. Afterwards, he sighs in mild exasperation and makes his way over to where Navi is. He takes out a small environmental scanner and runs it laterally across the wreckage blocking the door. He frowns thoughtfully. "We can make it through," he says, "but it's going to take some precise cutting, at the exact right moment, and fast hands with a welder." He looks to Zetha. "Do you have your tools on you?" Volken will be hit with pitch black, but at least no rocks. The ground here feels soft, and mud will suck at his feet. Is he going the right way? Where were they going anyway? These thoughts must have occurred to Crane. "Where..." he says weakly. "... we going?" 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "Cayde, what the frell are you... /Zetha, look out/!" Navi cries, grabbing for Zetha's hand with her free hand. She can't drop her lightsaber and deprive everyone of the light source, meaning she can't use both hands, so she uses a ballroom dance move she learned once to twirl Zetha up against her, out of the way of falling chunks of roof. "Are you okay?" she asks the Twi'lek, after the partial collapse has stopped. 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' "I don't know!" admits Volken, "The inspector was supposed to guide us tot he hospital but the tunnel that was lit was too unstable. We were lookin' at another cave in. I mighta been alright. You guys owuldnt' have been. So we have to just...trust this is getting us somewhere" That's not much else he can do but keep moving. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     The sudden shouting doesn't help, startling Cayde slightly and causing him to drop some pieces of the roof that almost fall on Zetha. The padawan sighs, and wonders if there is another way down into the tunnels. Maybe another, less destroyed building is connected somewhere. He starts heading back the way they came, through the path he'd already cleared. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Just in the nick of time. The roof collapses and Cayde drops other pieces of it but Zetha is free from the collapse via Thaarin and Navi grabbing and yanking on her. The sudden jostle, however, causes the pain in her head to spike and she winces hard, hands going to hold against the sides of her head for a brief moment. Her stomach flips and there's spots in her vision but she gulps some air and then stands up a bit more. Sort of. "I'm fine...thank you." 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "..." Crane doesn't reply, at least not right away. Instead, he hugs Volken's massive arm like a child seeking validation. Volken will be able to see a tiny pinpoint of light at the end of the tunnel, though the mud will continue to suck at his heels. After a moment, Crane finally asks again. "...why? Why... all of this..." Thaarin's hand misses Zetha's wrist, but thankfully, Navi is able to grab her and pull her out of the way. His brows crease with concern when it becomes clear that Zetha is in pain. "Are you sure?" He pauses. "We're going to need someone to weld. Can you do it?" He then calls to Cayde. "Come back here," He says in a commanding tone. "We're going to need you in a minute. This can work. Don't go anywhere." 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' "Huh?" It's a confusing question and Volken would rather focus on keeping his body working then answer something that...really should be obvious. "What...? Why what?" He takes a second to jump to a conclusion and he rumbles, "What, Mandalorian's are supposed to just....let folk die and drown?" Well Ellari kind of -did- didn't she. He fumes...but then: "It's not your fault you got dragged into all of this because of Kass' crazy di'kut behavior. I'm not going to just leave an innocent to die. It's wrong. That's not how I was taught. It's not The Way. It's not what I believe..evne if it was The Way I wouldn't care.... Even if I coulda left Kass...I want to find out why he was acting that way. Why he won't just....-listen- to common sense. Anyway...just hang on." 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' Being a trained Force healer, Navi is usually pretty good at spotting when someone is hurt. Cupping a hand over one of Zetha's ear cones, she begins to manipulate the flow of the Force between herself and the stricken Twi'lek. She's edging up on exhausted, which may be why she isn't able to cure the head trauma entirely. But she is able to eliminate the accompanying headache, allowing Zetha to work without pain. "Feel better? Let me know if you need any more help," she says softly. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' The relief she feels when Navi works some Force power on her has Zetha standing up a bit taller and she offers a smile. "That's a lot better. Thank you.." She then glances to Thaarin and nods her head. "I promise I'll get checked out as soon as I can...but for now...where do you need me? How can I help?" She sounds better too. Not fully healed, but able to push through it a lot better. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde stops and turns around, although he doesn't quite backtrack. He just sort of stands there, watching Navi heal Zetha with an unreadable expression for a moment. Then he simply looks away, and stares at the floor. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Crane doesn't respond right away. But his embrace of Volken's upper arm tightens ever so slightly. "... thank you...." Up ahead, the tiny pinprick of light starts to get bigger. Hopefully, they're headed somewhere drier. Thaarin motions to Cayde as if he were a reluctantly obedient akk dog. "Come over here, I'm going to give very specific instruction," he says to the young padawan, while glancing over at Navi. "I've examined the debris using this scanner and made some calculations." He pulls up a holodisplay of the wreckage he'd scanned, then points to two red diagonal marks on either side of the debris. "It needs to be cut at a thirty five degree angle here, and here," he says. "Simultaneously. Navi and Cayde will have to move in singular motion, and create the cuts at the exact same time. If done correctly, the debris will fall in a precise manner that will wedge it firmly enough to stay stable for at least ninety seconds. Zetha, you must then weld these particular axes--" And he points to three white dots spread out on the holodisplay. "Before the ninety seconds are over. If the operation is a success, then the result will be an archway we can pass through to the warehouse without fearing this building's entire collapse." 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "Come on, Cayde. It's time for some teamwork," Navi says encouragingly, taking a firmer grip on her lightsaber. << Okay, we'll need to swing at precisely the same time here. Ready? >> she sends to him telepathically. << You say when. >> 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde finally comes back, although at Thaarin's instructions, he seems rather apprehensive. That's such a precise angle, how could they expect it to get it exactly right? And at the exact same time? Telepathic synchronization might help, but although his telepathy is potent, it's not always predictable. Navi can feel his uncertainty as she reaches into his mind, and he seems to hesitate. 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' << I've seen you handle a lightsaber, Cayde. You can do this, >> Navi replies upon sensing Cayde's uncertainty. << One quick cut and we're done. You might even be able to help direct some of the debris with telekinesis, but I hope that won't be necessary. Ready when you are. >> 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha gives a nod at the points Thaarin shows her where she would need to weld. She actually opens a couple of her pockets to pull out the items she would need to complete this task. Course she'll have to wait for Cayde and Navi to make their cuts and be quick enough after that - which is why her tools in hand is a must. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Thaarin nods to Zetha, and then looks to Navi and Cayde. "Look, this is the best way in. If we go back out there, we'll be risking ourselves to the elements. The Mandalorians who were with us left to find a better way in and haven't returned, that's telling." "There's a very small margin for error, but it's enough. I think you and Navi can manage it. There's no other way." 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' Navi makes her cut when Cayde gives the word. It's a better than average cut, precise enough to get the job done. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde finally nods and takes a breath, before igniting his lightsaber into the precise location Thaarin had indicated. He maintains his connection to Navi through the Force, to help her sync up with him perfectly. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Lightsabers flash, cut, and then Zetha moves in and takes sauter to flame to weld the spots that Thaarin had pointed out to her. Who needs safety gear when lives are on the line?! Not Zetha. When she's finished she sort of keeps herself still - as if making sure things are as steady as Thaarin calculated they would be. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' The operation is a success, despite the odds and the need for exact precision. The debris falls, wedges itself tightly, and the Zetha sauters it. It groans loudly while she welds, but when he's done, it holds. "It worked," Thaarin says, releasing a breath he hadn't realized he was holding. "Let's go," he says, hurrying through the newly created archway, "it's holding for now, but if the storm worsens it might collapse." Soon, he's on the other side, heading for a trapdoor in the back of the warehouse. As for Volken, he'll be able hear very faint footsteps not too far ahead of him and see that the pinprick of light is actually a silver of beam of light, coming in through a cracked trapdoor, the very one Cayde, Navi, Zetha, and Thaarin are headed for. 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' Navi makes her way to the trap door. "Thank the Force nothing's fallen on that trapdoor," she observes. "Can someone help me with this?" she asks, taking hold of the edge and starting to lift the trap. "Hello?" she calls through the crack. "Is anyone down here?" 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' "Alright..." Volken sets down Crane first and then the Inspector and then he drops Kass roughly to the muddy ground. He checks to see if THe Inspector is breathing or not - but regardless - turns from them both and limps his way over towards the pinprick of light to check it out and test the sturdiness of the structure against his hands. If satisfied...he does the only thing he really -can- do here....and brings a massive fist back to prepare to slam it forward and try and force the thing open or otherwise bust through it! Which is fortunante for Navi that he sees her just before he makes the swing! "Whoa, whoa, whoa!" 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha moves forward to help Navi open the door after getting over the archway. Then she looks over and gives a gasp. "Big scary man!" She says and then looks around - though it's very likely she can't see anything beyond the hulk's hulking form of hulkiness. "Is anyone else with you?" 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde is immediately able to sense Volken and Amarik's presence on the other side of the door. Although Amarik is..weakened. He tries to grab Navi by the shoulders and pull her back away, as Volken is ready to swing with those massive fists of his! 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Thaarin's eyes widen slightly when he realizes it's Volken down there. "It's them," he murmurs to no one in particular. "Don't," He suddenly instructs Volken through the crack in the trapdoor. "We can open it. The others... how are they?" He then immediately reaches down to help Navi lift the trapdoor up. Volken might almost be blinded by the light, somehow, there's still a battery powered working light source in the warehouse, and after having been in the dark for a long time, it will feel like staring into the sun. Thaarin leans over the edge of the trapdoor, dismay suddenly coming over his expression. "Navi! Quickly...! They don't look well... Zetha, you might want to take a step back..." 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "The others? Wait. Is Crane with you? Where is he?" Zetha says this before Thaarin gets any more words out. So when he's telling her she might want to take a step back - she does. But the worry is in her eyes as she watches because the way Thaarin was sounding and the words he was saying, they settle in her mind with a mighty weight to them. 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' "Yes... I need help." answers Volkent ot he questions tossed his way. "The Inspector...I'm not sure if he's breathing. Crane, A disciple from...from Jedha and that idiot Kass.. They're all unconscious.. barely alive. I'll explain later..." NOtably, Volken is not in his armor. His mud streaked features exposed. His upper body bearing a soggy and barely together sleeveless tee-shirt and a very obvious blaster wound smouldering on his flank. Well - part of his armor. His legging armor is on but his helmet and his chest piece are basically engufling much of Crane's body. He backs up fro the trap door and turns to make his way back towards where the three are. He finally starts looking tired, as if he simply couldn't allow it until now. He waits as the door is opened and for them to make their way down and he takes a second to actually roll his shoulders and sort out his own battered frame. 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "Eek!" Navi squeals as she's grabbed and pulled back from the trapdoor by Cayde. Fortunately, Volken doesn't swing that massive fist. Getting to her feet and hastily adjusting her suspenders, which had been dislodged by Cayde's grab, she hurries to look down the trapdoor. "Oh, goodness... you're right about them not looking well. Give me a minute..." She drops through the trapdoor and goes to work. "Volken, can you hold still a moment? You could use some medical attention," she says, reaching for his wrist. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde stares down through the trapdoor at Volken and the injured people with him. How had this happened? Why was Amarik with him?     This time, he can't help but pry, entering the Tholothian's mind to try to find out what exactly happened and why he's in such critical condition. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Thaarin doesn't waste a moment. With surprising agility he climbs down into the tunnels, barely paying any attention to Volken at all. He immediately leans over the inspector and feels for a pulse. His expression becomes ashen and solemn. "We're too late," he says quietly, "he's gone." Then looks to Crane, frowning. He's unconscious too, and bleeding everywhere. "Shit..." he mutters. "Navi, get your ass over here," he says, although he doesn't sound condescending, just desperate and needing to convey a sense of urgency, "I think he's dying." Zetha will be able to hear every word Thaarin is saying, but from where she is, won't be able to see who he's talking about. But does she want to find out...? Cayde will find that the Tholothian man's memory is ... horribly blurry. He's majorly concussed, and can't seem to even remember very many details about how he'd become so injured. There's a memory of someone beskar attacking him, lots of water, falling rocks, and then Volken picking him up, but the order of the memories probably isn't correct. 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' Volken emits a slow sigh as the word of the inspector's condition is given. He shakes his head and just sits there for a moment, not speaking or answering any questions right away. 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' Navi takes hold of Volken's wrist, manipulating the flow of the Force through him, and between him and herself. The wounds close up and the pain disappears. Releasing his wrist, she hurries to "Crane's" side and kneels next to him, laying her hands on his shoulders. Once more she calls upon the Force and tweaks its flow. Within minutes the wounds close up and the headache and pain disappear, leaving him weary but alive and whole. Rising, she moves to check on the inspector, just to be sure. The odds of saving him don't really exist, but she must be sure she's done all she can. Kneeling beside him, she checks for a pulse and for breathing... and finds none. She looks up at Thaarin and sadly shakes her head. 
}}

Character Creation

2026-03-19T06:56:08Z

Andromeda:

The Character Generation system on Pax Republica should feel familiar to experienced MUSHers who have played on past Star Wars MUSHes, but be easy enough for new players to understand and progress through. We use a variation of the D20 roleplaying system, so if you're unfamiliar we suggest you familiarize yourself with the D20 systems before beginning Character Generation.

== Basic Information ==
Here you will be able to choose your character's species, from the available races, and set your character's basic details like gender, height, weight, hair, eyes, and skin, as well as your in-game description.

It is also important to note that all characters must be at least 16 years of age. Any characters age younger than 16 will be rejected on concept. You can read more about this rule on our [[Policy]] page.

=== Force Sensitivity ===
Any player may create a Force Sensitive character, without it being considered one of their character bonuses. This comes with a few caveats to consider.
*Keep in mind that all living creatures in the Star Wars universe have the Force within them. However, for the purposes of character limits/character generation (see [[Characters & Alternates]]), "Force Sensitive" is defined as a character who possesses Force skills. A character may have Force sensitivity on its sheet but may not possess any Force skills. For example, perhaps a character's connection to the Force simply allows him to be very good at a non-Force skill, such as [[Pilot]] or [[Astrogation]].
*A player may only have 1 Force Sensitive character in active play at once.
*Non-Jedi Force Sensitives are allowed but are restricted, as in they will likely come under heavy scrutiny by staff.
*Characters with Force Sensitivity are not given additional skill or attribute points to use toward Force abilities. These will have to come out of the character's regular attribute or skill point pool.
*[[Miraluka]] who have not chosen to raise any Force skills other than the [[Force Sight]] +2 bonus given by the Force Awareness racial do not count against the limit. Keep in mind, if the Force Sight skill is raised beyond +2, the character will count against the limit.

=== Bonus selection ===
Every character may choose a start-up bonus from the following:

=== Cybernetics ===
This bonus will allow the player to raise any of his character’s Attributes up to 5 points above the maximum for his species. However, for every point raised above the maximum, the character receives a -1 penalty to all Force skills. This penalty will apply to any Force skills the character may attempt to learn in the future as well. For example, raising an Attribute score +1 above the racial maximum using the cybernetics bonus will require the character to spend 2 Skill Points to gain +1 in a Force skill instead of 1 Skill Point.

=== Skill ===
The Skill bonus will grant the character an extra 10 Skill Points to spend on skills in addition to the standard 20.

=== Resources ===
This bonus will grant the 10 Resource Points to spend on the 2 types of assets that follow. Keep in mind that not selecting these bonuses doesn't mean your character doesn't have access to them at all, but rather you should select them if you plan to have them come into play on a regular basis as part of your character's main repertoire and therefore need to be able to roll them.

==== NPC ====
Players will be given 20 points to allocate to the NPC’s Attribute scores should they choose to spend Resource Points on skills/specializations for an NPC. The costs of raising the Attributes will be the same as player characters, but NPCs may not learn Force skills.

==== Vehicle ====
Players may spend points on a vehicle of their choice from a list of vehicles and vehicle mods. Vehicle stats are similar to [[:Category:Attributes|Attribute]] scores and follow the same modifier assignment patterns as normal characters. Ship combat actions are also subject to Multiple Action Penalty rules. See [https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1ooxxCPiVoUHPB9KGJyIkmEQi8hvb2EyE1a9ZOvDU85s/edit?usp=sharing Vehicles] for a list of available vehicle types, classes, and mods.

== Attributes ==
These represent your character's overall talent, aptitude, and physical ability, and provide a base value for all the skill in their respective trees. All characters are given a total of 20 skill points (30 if you chose the skill bonus) attribute dice, minus the minimums for their selected race, to distribute within the bounds of your character's racial minimum and maximum values. Any Attribute score higher than 19 requires justification. Background is a good place for that, or anywhere in your application submission.

===Skills===

Skills represent your character's trained or learned abilities, and build on the attribute values set in the previous step. All characters are given 20 skill points to spend, and 30 if the skill point bonus is selected. These may be distributed as you like, with the following restrictions:

* No skill may be set more than +3 over its parent Attribute modifier, or to a number >10, whichever is lower. See the [[:Category:Attributes|Attributes]] page for the modifier chart (including [[Traits]] and Racial Traits).
* You must have at least 8 skills visible on your sheet in order to progress to the next step.
* Any skill with more than 5 points allocated requires a justification.

These restrictions are intended to prevent players from unreasonably min/maxing their character sheet, and to give everyone a more well-rounded set of abilities.

==== Specializations ====
Specializations are special skills which represent a character's focus on a certain specific aspect of the parent skill, and can only be used in specific situations. For example, the "Blaster Pistol" specialization points '''and''' "Shoot" skill points will be added when the character is specifically using a blaster pistol. A single skill point is worth 2 specialization points. Specializations may not be leveled up in increments less than 2, and require at least 1 point in the parent skill.

=== Traits ===
Traits are character advantages or flaws which go beyond what skills and attributes can easily define. They allow you to choose quirks, talents, and conditions to further expand and define your character. You can choose as many or as few traits as you want, but they all have a point value; traits which provide an advantage cost points, while those which put your character at a disadvantage refund points.

Choose your traits carefully; while they provide bonuses or penalties to your character rolls, they are intended to add more dimension to your character, and your roleplay. Don't take a trait you don't intend to play. We don't want to see players taking multiple negative traits just so they can also take multiple beneficial traits and then pretend the negative ones don't exist during actual roleplay.

=== Languages ===
The number of languages you can speak in addition to your native tongue is determined by your Knowledge modifier plus any additional points you have in the [[Language]] skill. For example, if you had 12 Knowledge (+1 modifier) and +2 in the Language skill, you would be allowed 3 languages in addition to your character's racial default. Players are not required to use all allowances.

Please note that if you wish to learn a restricted language, you must have points in the Languages skill above your Knowledge attribute base value. To learn a restricted language, please submit a +request to staff. Understand that restricted languages may have additional requirements, depending on the rarity of the language. See the [[Languages]] page for a list.

=== Background ===
Your background tells us where your character came from, and how they got to where they are now. Where they were born, how they grew up, any defining events in their life. There is no minimum or maximum length for your background, but while staff doesn't want to sift through novels, your background should be long enough to give us a clear picture of who and what your character is.

Any high-level skills should be justified in your background. While we don't require every item on your sheet to be explained, your background and your sheet should be compatible at a glance. If your sheet is combat-based, but there is no evidence of combat training in your background, staff will ask for you to revise.

=== Review and Submit ===
Take a look over your character's information, sheet, and background, and be sure that you're happy with your work before submitting your application. It may take some time to review and approve your character, so be patient. We'll let you know by @mail when you've been approved, or if there are any changes that need to be made.

== All Done? ==

<div class="center">Once you're approved, feel free to add your character page to the wiki below.</div>

<inputbox>
type = create
break=no
placeholder = Character Name
preload = Template:CharacterPage/preload
break=yes
break=yes
 
buttonlabel = Add New Character
</inputbox>
[[Category:Systems]]
[[Category:Guides]]
[[Category:Policy]]
[[Category:Chargen]]

A Clone's Freedom

2026-01-31T01:21:03Z

Andromeda:

{{Log Header
|Date of Scene=2026-01-18
|Cast of Characters=159, 143, 261, 444
|pretty=yes
|Location=Kublop Springs - Tenoo - Outer Rim
}}
{{Poses
|Poses=:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Within minutes after Cayde has discovered that the clone has once again disappeared, Rykard goes looking for Cayde to see what they'd been up to while he'd been talking to the Mandalorians. Upon arriving, he frowns, seeing that the clone is gone. "What happened?" he asks Cayde, and Zetha, who had likely arrived at the clone's room shortly after Cayde. "Cayde, you said the baron had been here earlier?" Neither of them may get to reply, though, within seconds of Rykard arriving, the elder of the two Mondrians arrives, his face contorted with rage and worry. "Where's my sister?" he demands, his fists clenched. Wherever Navi might be, she might have glimpsed him running through the hospital, pushing nurse droids and hospital staff aside rudely. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde was looking at that note on the berth that Jasper had left when Rykard enters, frowning pensively at it. Well, he supposed he'd already helped as much as he could.     The padawan nods toward his master, then tries to focus his efforts on locating the baron again. He can't have gone far, right?     That's what he's doing when the elder Mondrian arrives, and thus does not acknowledge the much grumpier officer's presence. 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' Navi, in the meantime, is looking for Zetha. The Twi'lek girl's cries for help were good motivation to find her. But her progress is briefly halted by a different noise; the thuds, clatters, protests, and beeps of hospital staff and medical droids being pushed aside by none other than Mondrian The Menace. She pauses, shaking her head slowly, watching him bulldoze his way down the hall. "And to think he wonders why I keep him out of my investigations," she grumbles, before pelting off after Zetha. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha glances to Rykard and then to Cayde before looking back. "Baron? What Baron?" She seems to have a confused look on her face. "There was a Mandalorian named Jasper who found me in Soren's office. Said he wanted to see someone in this room but needed a distraction. I tried to call for help, chased after Jasper when he bolted, and that's when Cayde caught up to me...we followed him here and...." She trails off at this point. Looking to the other man who's demanding to know where his sister is. "This is getting so weird." She looks around again before putting pieces together. "Is Jasper a Baron?" Yes. Ignoring Mondrian (M) for the time being, especially since she doesn't know where his sister is and is more concerned with other issues at the moment. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Indeed, he isn't far, but his presence is quickly fading, heading vaguely in the direction of the outskirts of town. But Rykard is reaching out to him via the Force. <Cayde, answer me. What happened here? Do you know where the clone went?> "I'm not sure," the elder Jedi replies to Mondrian (M). "She left a little while ago. Navi was able to heal her, through the Force. You might want to try asking her." Growling angrily, the other Mondrian storms off, now in search of Navi. "Well," Rykard says to Zetha. "In all likelihood, the man you saw in the doctor's office was the Baron, the host of the clone who was being held in the trauma unit previously. He seems to have been frightened and run off, however." "I think he's a Mandalorian noble, but Cayde would know better..." Navi's pursuit of Zetha will be interrupted by the young Tholothian man who goes by at least three names. "Navi!" He touches her arm gently. <There's something important I need to tell you. About the laboratory> 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' Navi pauses as 'Crane' approaches. "Okay, but I'm looking for Zetha. She seemed to be in trouble not too long ago. Do you know where she is?" she asks. "Talk while we walk," she suggests, walking in the general direction she had been going. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde frowns, concentrating on trying to narrow down the baron's location.      He tells his master, and hands him the note that Jasper had left.     He shakes his head at Zetha. [That is not his name] he tells her. [Not his real name...] 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha shakes her head, knowing she's in too deep now but a lot of her is screaming that she should get out of all this while she can. "He'll come looking for me. Jasper I mean...to fulfill a promise he made since I did him the favor of distraction. Which wasn't what I was going for...I was hoping someone would be close enough to hear me and catch him quicker." Then she shifts and begins to walk away, but Cayde's hand movements catch her. She laughs, but it's not like haha laughing...more like...realizations and disbelief. "Because of course it's not. That makes more sense...I don't want to know his real name. And if it's all the same to you both...I am not staying a moment more in this hospital." A look to Cayde. "You know how to contact me if I'm needed..." Then she turns and continues to exit stage left, to go downstairs and towards the big hold in the wall exit... 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' 'Crane' nods eagerly. "Let's find her together," he says. He looks around furtively then takes Navi's hand as they walk, letting her take the lead. <Did Cayde get my message? Perhaps you have at least a vague idea about where the laboratory is. I still don't know exactly where it is, but I'm hoping that the bird was able to help Cayde get a clearer picture of where it is, and how to get in. Recently, I learned that none of the possible entry points are on a timed schedule. That means Zetha getting in through the baron's graces is our only hope. I've charted a path towards the laboratory that I believe will be safe. You'll be able to use it to follow Zetha from a distance up until a point. After that, I cannot help you. There are zones I'm not familiar with> he projects to her gently. Rykard studies the note carefully frowning. "This behavior seems natural to me," he says, "he fears the other Mandalorians." he sighs. "I know of it," Rykard says to Zetha. "Mondrian told me. I know you're scared, but you need not be. You won't be alone, and we'll take precautions," He reassures her as she starts to leave. 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "I don't know. I wasn't with him at the time, given his tendency to wander. I was trying to keep an already-out fire between Mondrian and some Mandalorians from flaring back up again," Navi says, scowling a little. "It probably means /another/ crisis... the very dirt from the ground of this rotten planet seems to breed them," the Sethi adds resignedly. "I can't get back to the Core soon enough..." 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde shifts a bit uneasily. Why did it have to be her, again?     [Maybe he has helped as much he can] he offers, once Rykard comments about the note. [We can find the gate]     Then, he starts following Zetha out. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' With Zetha and Navi practically being on the same path - both going towards the other - when she crosses the Sethi's path and sees Crane with her, she gives a smile. "Finally. More friendly faces..." She offers, shifting enough so that's she's heading towards the pair. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "I'm sorry," 'Crane' offers. "I heard you all were going to Coruscant soon?" He pats her arm. <Look, I love you and trust you in this matter. You'll do the right thing, I'm sure. And even if it doesn't turn out well, your good deed will still count towards you.> He squeezes her hand reassuringly. When 'Crane' sees Zetha, he leaves Navi's side and hurries over to her. "Zetha," he says, taking her by the shoulders and squeezing them gently. "I'm sorry I couldn't come sooner," he says, "are you feeling alright now?" Rykard frowns. "The gate...?" He follows Cayde as he exits the room, looking puzzled. 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "Not yet, but I'm hopeful," Navi replies to 'Crane', in reply to both his spoken and unspoken comments. "Oh, Zetha... there you are. I heard you calling for help earlier and was trying to find you. Looks like Cayde and Master Rykard found you first." She watches 'Crane' move to reassure Zetha, and feels a pang of guilt for mistrusting him. Never mind that she has /very good/ reason for it... 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha smiles at Crane as he approaches her. "I'm fine..." She offers, though that's never really a true statement from her. "Pieces are coming together that I don't like. But...I have our way in. Even if what I had hoped when calling for help didn't work out the way I intended...I think I'll still be given access to the laboratory from Jasper. Who I now know what I didn't before, and maybe others knew but didn't tell me...that this Jasper guy is really some Mandalorian Baron?" Which is really all broken pieces of information based on what happened earlier." 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     [Yes the clone showed us] Cayde replies, nodding. Master had seen the same memories he had, right?     He eyes 'Crane' as he squeezes Zetha's shoulders affectionately. So, now they were seeing each other or something? Well, that was a bit awkward. But it didn't bother Amarik, apparently.     Another nod toward Zetha's question. [He has done something] he signs to her. [Volken know more] 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "Jasper and that Mandalorian baron are two different people. I can understand the confusion, since I'm not real clear on just who or what this Mandalorian noble's title is, or even if he's a real baron or whatever," Navi adds, to clarify. "But they're different people. The baron has some kind of interest in the clone. Again, not sure what that is." 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' He gazes at her fondly and then embraces her gently, looking relieved afterwards. "You're really brave for doing this," he says, "and the Jedi are going to accompany you, right?" "Hmm, yes," Rykard says, but Cayde will be able to tell that Rykard is internally criticizing his use of words. He nods at 'Crane's' question. "Yes, we'll accompany her," he says, "and we'll be ready to follow discreetly once she lets us know she's ready to go," he says, looking over at Zetha. "The baron considers the clone his property," Rykard tells Navi, "I can understand his desire to be free." He then motions for the group to follow him out of the hospital. As they're walking, Navi may glimpse Mondrian (F) outside in the hospital garden, still sulking. She still has Navi's jacket too. 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "Thank you for clearing that up, Master," Navi says to Rykard. "Pardon me just a moment." She jogs over to speak to Mondrian (F). "Don't worry about the jacket. Just return it whenever you can. But I thought you'd want to know that your brother's inside the hospital looking for you, stomping and pushing people and droids around. You might want to find him before he plows into an operating theater and creates a PR nightmare for Republic Security." 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha returns the gentle embrace from Crane but her expression after is one of confusion. "Wait. Rykard had mentioned the word Baron just a moment ago. That the man I saw in Soren's office -was- the baron, and the host of the clones. Which makes sense because when we found the two clones in the gorge I made a comment that they -looked- like Jasper..." Did no one hear her when she said this? "I am now sorely confused, and I feel like information is being kept from me. Whether by accident or intentionally no longer matters. If someone doesn't give me the whole of it soon then I'll march right up to Big Bad and Scary myself and ask him point blank. No more secrets or run arounds or games. You all seem to know things that I don't and that's going to make it much more dangerous for me in the long run if I am going to be doing anything more for any of you. So out with it. Or I'm walking away until someone decides the stupid little junkyard orphan can hold her own well enough and deserves the full truth." 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde stares at his master, wondering what word he'd used wrongly. Ugh...he sighs. [Slavery is not right or legal] he remarks about the baron considering the clone to be his property.     At Zetha's outburst that she isn't being told everything, he again shifts uncomfortably, glancing at 'Crane'. [It is complicated...you are not stupid] 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Mondrian (F) looks up. She gives Navi a contorted expression, one full of confusion, regret, and anxiety. "Sorry," she blurts. "It's just that --" But then before she can finish her sentence, the other Mondrian (M) does barge onto the scene. "What the kriff, Co-Deputy, where have -- dammit! What the hell! There you are!" He narrows his eyes at Navi. "What. Happened. Why did you let her get hurt?" 'Crane' looks genuinely confused. "I.. I don't know, what do you mean?" Rykard nods at Cayde. "You are right," he says to the young padawan. "I wished there was more we could do for the clone," he says, "but at this point, all we can do is hope that the Force is with him, and that the other Mandalorians do not wrongly put him behind bars." Then his brows arch. "You make a compelling point," he says to Zetha. "Perhaps there's more than one clone? Or, the baron has a twin brother..." It is something to consider, but Zetha may not get to comment on it, as she'll notice that suddenly, they're being approached by the local constabulary and the mayor himself, Hedge Niklas. "Ah.. Marshal, and hello to you too, Cayde. I.. have some bad news for you." 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' Navi rests a hand sympathetically on Mondrian's (F's) shoulder. She doesn't have the chance to offer any sympathetic words before Mondrian (M) stomps into view in a cloud of bluster. "And I bet you wonder why I don't include you in my investigations," she says, evenly but irritably. "You can calm down, right now, or I'm gone. I've got other business to take care of, and it doesn't begin to include your noise." 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha's glance shifts to Rykard and she seems to slump a little. "Perhaps. Who knows at this point..." There's not much more she wants to say about the matter as a whole and she might see if she can find Volken herself if he's still on the planet and ask him questions without the Jedi or Republic people around. Since no one is really forthcoming with much more information, the Twi'lek turns to make her leave just as the mayor is approaching the lot. "Any chance I can skip the bad news?" She asks, perhaps cheekily, but with a point of wanting to just bolt for home at this rate. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde shrugs. [I think twin maybe] he conjectures. [Looking the same but is different] he answers as best he can.     When Zetha starts to leave, he touches her shoulder gently to try to get her attention. <Wait...I can show you everything> he offers.     The padawan glances at the mayor. [What is wrong] he asks. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "I -am- calm!" Mondrian (M) fumes, fists clenched, a vein in his neck bulging like it's going to burst. But beneath the angry lines stretched taut across his expression there's an undercurrent of real concern. "What happened. What happened?!" Mondrian (F) won't look at her brother. She looks upset again. "Oh, hello there, Zetha! Congrats," Niklas says, glancing at 'Crane'. "The bad news isn't for you. How, er, is your mother?" Rykard frowns. "This doesn't come as a surprise to you padawan?" Rykard says. Then he turns his attention to the local constables. They step aside, and Cayde will espy a few familiar faces - Tommy, who is in tears, Peeka, the rascal little teenage Chadra Fan, and then perhaps to his surprise, Binny. There are a couple other teens but Cayde won't recognize them. "We caught them shoplifting from the local grocer," the constabulary says, "and they're from Aklyrr Bend. But we asked Thaarin about their records, and he says admin doesn't have them. Our folk don't know them, so they must have been stowaways." 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "If that's your definition of calm, you need to get a new dictionary. Stop and consider what this is doing to your blood pressure, okay?" Navi replies, a bit testily. "She got into a confrontation with some Mandalorians inside the hospital, and she and a Mandalorian woman drew pistols and shot each other. That's why she's wearing /my/ jacket... half the front of her uniform above the waist is gone. I healed both her and the Mandalorian woman, and there wasn't any more shooting after. Got it?" 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' There's a glance given back to Cayde just as Niklas begins to speak. She nods to Cayde, as if accepting his proposal to tell her everything. Seems like right now isn't the time though. "Mom's angry as always. I actually should go check in on her...otherwise I'm bound to get another earful..." Offering this as she looks to Crane. "We'll meet up again soon, I'm sure." And then she politely excuses herself and walks away from the adults and the children who are all teary and upset. Nope. Not touching THAT with a ten foot pole. She will likely make her way to wherever Wiis is staying at the moment. The hotel, wasn't it? 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     [I saw them in the gorge] Cayde replies to his master, nodding. He watches Zetha leave, looking a little confused. When would the baron take her to the lab? Again, he questions whether she needed to be involved...it could be rather dangerous.     He turns to the other teens. Stowaways....right. The padawan gives them a long, hard look. [They return to Coruscant with us...and stay] 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Mondrian's (M) expression glazes over. "I'm going to find that woman and gut her," he says, with an alarming calm that's uncharacteristic for him. Then without further comment, he turns on his heel and makes a hasty exit. Mondrian (F) is staring at the ground. "..." 'Crane' bids Zetha goodbye and then goes to find Navi and Mondrian (F). He frowns, noticing Mondrian's downcast expression. "Are you guys okay?" he asks innocuously. "Right, so that we can continue doing the same damn thing, in the Lower Levels, except that it doesn't matter there because the Jedi don't care about what happens to the people who live down there," he sneers. He jerks his arm away the local constable who's restraining him. "At least the colonists have plenty of food and shelter. But they won't share with us because it's against the -rules-," he says. "I'm just trying to survive. I was in the system, but I got out because I had to. Those families aren't really family, and don't give a shit about anyone or anything." 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "For your sister's sake, I'm going to give you some advice; /don't even think about doing that/. She has some very skilled and powerful friends, and that's before I add that I'm sure she could take you on all by herself. Don't ask for trouble. I don't want your sister to have to bury you," Navi says coldly to Mondrian (M) before he turns to leave. "Her brother's off to do something as ass-stupid as pick a fight with a Mandalorian woman in front of her friends. I'm worried that she'll have to bury his remains," she says to 'Crane'. "I just know I'm going to regret this, but I'm going after the brain donor. Maybe I can at least convince the Mandalorians to set for Stun." 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde sighs as Mondrian (M) storms off. He considers trying to enter his mind and dissuade him from doing anything rash, but maybe that would only make matters worse.     He turns back to the stowaways, his expression still unreadable. [I care] he signs, because at least he actually went down there on a regular basis. It wasn't just empty words. [But that is what will happen] They weren't supposed to be here, and that was that. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' 'Crane' sighs. "Good luck," he says, "Seems their best form of persuasion is violence. I would very much not like to see you return black and blue," he says, offering her a flower from a nearby tree. "Or you could just... not," Mondrian (F) says. "You could just let them deal with their own problems, as long as they don't concern us." There's a lengthy pause. "I could... I could use some company. Thanks for letting me use your jacket. But maybe you get it now. I hate that my brother is always like this." "Sure, and have you actually made a difference by going down there all the time? Everything seems pretty much the same to me." Binny sneers at Cayde, but Rykard interjects, "We'll have to look into it," Rykard says to the mayor, "we will not take them back to Coruscant if there's nowhere decent to place them where they will be treated well and can get an education." The mayor pauses. "I mean, yes. In all honesty, I was hoping that they would not be sent back, actually. I'd like for them to stay. I'd meant to talk to you and the co-deputies about my proposition to buy the convent from the Disciples and convert it into a space where both education and religion can co-exist and even collaborate. The education bit would involve a boarding school tailored for towards orphans and transitional youth." Rykard nods. "We'll discuss, but I need to have a chat with the other co-deputies." He then frowns at Cayde. "But before we bring Navi into this, you and I need to have a talk..." 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' Navi pauses long enough to hug Mondrian (F). "Ordinarily, I'd let things take their course. He's not my favorite person. To be kind. But he's your brother, and letting him get killed just doesn't feel right," she says softly. She accepts the flower from 'Crane'. "I'm not interested in getting beaten up, either. But I've got to do something to keep him from getting killed." She hugs Mondrian (F) for a moment more, though. And maybe another. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Oh....Cayde listens to the proposition from the mayor, and nods. Right, he'd mentioned that before.     He deflates when Rykard mentions they need to talk with that frown. [Yes master...] he signs, staring at the ground. 
}}

A Clone's Freedom

2026-01-31T01:20:46Z

Andromeda: Created page with "{{Log Header |Date of Scene=2026-01-18 |Cast of Characters=159, 143, 261, 444 |pretty=yes }} {{Poses |Poses=:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Within minutes after Cayde has discovered that the clone has once again disappeared, Rykard goes looking for Cayde to see what they'd been up to while he'd been talking to the Mandalorians. Upon arriving, he frowns, seeing that the clone is gone. "What happened?" he asks Cayde, and Zetha, who had likely arrive..."

{{Log Header
|Date of Scene=2026-01-18
|Cast of Characters=159, 143, 261, 444
|pretty=yes
}}
{{Poses
|Poses=:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Within minutes after Cayde has discovered that the clone has once again disappeared, Rykard goes looking for Cayde to see what they'd been up to while he'd been talking to the Mandalorians. Upon arriving, he frowns, seeing that the clone is gone. "What happened?" he asks Cayde, and Zetha, who had likely arrived at the clone's room shortly after Cayde. "Cayde, you said the baron had been here earlier?" Neither of them may get to reply, though, within seconds of Rykard arriving, the elder of the two Mondrians arrives, his face contorted with rage and worry. "Where's my sister?" he demands, his fists clenched. Wherever Navi might be, she might have glimpsed him running through the hospital, pushing nurse droids and hospital staff aside rudely. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde was looking at that note on the berth that Jasper had left when Rykard enters, frowning pensively at it. Well, he supposed he'd already helped as much as he could.     The padawan nods toward his master, then tries to focus his efforts on locating the baron again. He can't have gone far, right?     That's what he's doing when the elder Mondrian arrives, and thus does not acknowledge the much grumpier officer's presence. 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' Navi, in the meantime, is looking for Zetha. The Twi'lek girl's cries for help were good motivation to find her. But her progress is briefly halted by a different noise; the thuds, clatters, protests, and beeps of hospital staff and medical droids being pushed aside by none other than Mondrian The Menace. She pauses, shaking her head slowly, watching him bulldoze his way down the hall. "And to think he wonders why I keep him out of my investigations," she grumbles, before pelting off after Zetha. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha glances to Rykard and then to Cayde before looking back. "Baron? What Baron?" She seems to have a confused look on her face. "There was a Mandalorian named Jasper who found me in Soren's office. Said he wanted to see someone in this room but needed a distraction. I tried to call for help, chased after Jasper when he bolted, and that's when Cayde caught up to me...we followed him here and...." She trails off at this point. Looking to the other man who's demanding to know where his sister is. "This is getting so weird." She looks around again before putting pieces together. "Is Jasper a Baron?" Yes. Ignoring Mondrian (M) for the time being, especially since she doesn't know where his sister is and is more concerned with other issues at the moment. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Indeed, he isn't far, but his presence is quickly fading, heading vaguely in the direction of the outskirts of town. But Rykard is reaching out to him via the Force. <Cayde, answer me. What happened here? Do you know where the clone went?> "I'm not sure," the elder Jedi replies to Mondrian (M). "She left a little while ago. Navi was able to heal her, through the Force. You might want to try asking her." Growling angrily, the other Mondrian storms off, now in search of Navi. "Well," Rykard says to Zetha. "In all likelihood, the man you saw in the doctor's office was the Baron, the host of the clone who was being held in the trauma unit previously. He seems to have been frightened and run off, however." "I think he's a Mandalorian noble, but Cayde would know better..." Navi's pursuit of Zetha will be interrupted by the young Tholothian man who goes by at least three names. "Navi!" He touches her arm gently. <There's something important I need to tell you. About the laboratory> 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' Navi pauses as 'Crane' approaches. "Okay, but I'm looking for Zetha. She seemed to be in trouble not too long ago. Do you know where she is?" she asks. "Talk while we walk," she suggests, walking in the general direction she had been going. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde frowns, concentrating on trying to narrow down the baron's location.      He tells his master, and hands him the note that Jasper had left.     He shakes his head at Zetha. [That is not his name] he tells her. [Not his real name...] 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha shakes her head, knowing she's in too deep now but a lot of her is screaming that she should get out of all this while she can. "He'll come looking for me. Jasper I mean...to fulfill a promise he made since I did him the favor of distraction. Which wasn't what I was going for...I was hoping someone would be close enough to hear me and catch him quicker." Then she shifts and begins to walk away, but Cayde's hand movements catch her. She laughs, but it's not like haha laughing...more like...realizations and disbelief. "Because of course it's not. That makes more sense...I don't want to know his real name. And if it's all the same to you both...I am not staying a moment more in this hospital." A look to Cayde. "You know how to contact me if I'm needed..." Then she turns and continues to exit stage left, to go downstairs and towards the big hold in the wall exit... 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' 'Crane' nods eagerly. "Let's find her together," he says. He looks around furtively then takes Navi's hand as they walk, letting her take the lead. <Did Cayde get my message? Perhaps you have at least a vague idea about where the laboratory is. I still don't know exactly where it is, but I'm hoping that the bird was able to help Cayde get a clearer picture of where it is, and how to get in. Recently, I learned that none of the possible entry points are on a timed schedule. That means Zetha getting in through the baron's graces is our only hope. I've charted a path towards the laboratory that I believe will be safe. You'll be able to use it to follow Zetha from a distance up until a point. After that, I cannot help you. There are zones I'm not familiar with> he projects to her gently. Rykard studies the note carefully frowning. "This behavior seems natural to me," he says, "he fears the other Mandalorians." he sighs. "I know of it," Rykard says to Zetha. "Mondrian told me. I know you're scared, but you need not be. You won't be alone, and we'll take precautions," He reassures her as she starts to leave. 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "I don't know. I wasn't with him at the time, given his tendency to wander. I was trying to keep an already-out fire between Mondrian and some Mandalorians from flaring back up again," Navi says, scowling a little. "It probably means /another/ crisis... the very dirt from the ground of this rotten planet seems to breed them," the Sethi adds resignedly. "I can't get back to the Core soon enough..." 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde shifts a bit uneasily. Why did it have to be her, again?     [Maybe he has helped as much he can] he offers, once Rykard comments about the note. [We can find the gate]     Then, he starts following Zetha out. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' With Zetha and Navi practically being on the same path - both going towards the other - when she crosses the Sethi's path and sees Crane with her, she gives a smile. "Finally. More friendly faces..." She offers, shifting enough so that's she's heading towards the pair. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "I'm sorry," 'Crane' offers. "I heard you all were going to Coruscant soon?" He pats her arm. <Look, I love you and trust you in this matter. You'll do the right thing, I'm sure. And even if it doesn't turn out well, your good deed will still count towards you.> He squeezes her hand reassuringly. When 'Crane' sees Zetha, he leaves Navi's side and hurries over to her. "Zetha," he says, taking her by the shoulders and squeezing them gently. "I'm sorry I couldn't come sooner," he says, "are you feeling alright now?" Rykard frowns. "The gate...?" He follows Cayde as he exits the room, looking puzzled. 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "Not yet, but I'm hopeful," Navi replies to 'Crane', in reply to both his spoken and unspoken comments. "Oh, Zetha... there you are. I heard you calling for help earlier and was trying to find you. Looks like Cayde and Master Rykard found you first." She watches 'Crane' move to reassure Zetha, and feels a pang of guilt for mistrusting him. Never mind that she has /very good/ reason for it... 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha smiles at Crane as he approaches her. "I'm fine..." She offers, though that's never really a true statement from her. "Pieces are coming together that I don't like. But...I have our way in. Even if what I had hoped when calling for help didn't work out the way I intended...I think I'll still be given access to the laboratory from Jasper. Who I now know what I didn't before, and maybe others knew but didn't tell me...that this Jasper guy is really some Mandalorian Baron?" Which is really all broken pieces of information based on what happened earlier." 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     [Yes the clone showed us] Cayde replies, nodding. Master had seen the same memories he had, right?     He eyes 'Crane' as he squeezes Zetha's shoulders affectionately. So, now they were seeing each other or something? Well, that was a bit awkward. But it didn't bother Amarik, apparently.     Another nod toward Zetha's question. [He has done something] he signs to her. [Volken know more] 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "Jasper and that Mandalorian baron are two different people. I can understand the confusion, since I'm not real clear on just who or what this Mandalorian noble's title is, or even if he's a real baron or whatever," Navi adds, to clarify. "But they're different people. The baron has some kind of interest in the clone. Again, not sure what that is." 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' He gazes at her fondly and then embraces her gently, looking relieved afterwards. "You're really brave for doing this," he says, "and the Jedi are going to accompany you, right?" "Hmm, yes," Rykard says, but Cayde will be able to tell that Rykard is internally criticizing his use of words. He nods at 'Crane's' question. "Yes, we'll accompany her," he says, "and we'll be ready to follow discreetly once she lets us know she's ready to go," he says, looking over at Zetha. "The baron considers the clone his property," Rykard tells Navi, "I can understand his desire to be free." He then motions for the group to follow him out of the hospital. As they're walking, Navi may glimpse Mondrian (F) outside in the hospital garden, still sulking. She still has Navi's jacket too. 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "Thank you for clearing that up, Master," Navi says to Rykard. "Pardon me just a moment." She jogs over to speak to Mondrian (F). "Don't worry about the jacket. Just return it whenever you can. But I thought you'd want to know that your brother's inside the hospital looking for you, stomping and pushing people and droids around. You might want to find him before he plows into an operating theater and creates a PR nightmare for Republic Security." 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha returns the gentle embrace from Crane but her expression after is one of confusion. "Wait. Rykard had mentioned the word Baron just a moment ago. That the man I saw in Soren's office -was- the baron, and the host of the clones. Which makes sense because when we found the two clones in the gorge I made a comment that they -looked- like Jasper..." Did no one hear her when she said this? "I am now sorely confused, and I feel like information is being kept from me. Whether by accident or intentionally no longer matters. If someone doesn't give me the whole of it soon then I'll march right up to Big Bad and Scary myself and ask him point blank. No more secrets or run arounds or games. You all seem to know things that I don't and that's going to make it much more dangerous for me in the long run if I am going to be doing anything more for any of you. So out with it. Or I'm walking away until someone decides the stupid little junkyard orphan can hold her own well enough and deserves the full truth." 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde stares at his master, wondering what word he'd used wrongly. Ugh...he sighs. [Slavery is not right or legal] he remarks about the baron considering the clone to be his property.     At Zetha's outburst that she isn't being told everything, he again shifts uncomfortably, glancing at 'Crane'. [It is complicated...you are not stupid] 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Mondrian (F) looks up. She gives Navi a contorted expression, one full of confusion, regret, and anxiety. "Sorry," she blurts. "It's just that --" But then before she can finish her sentence, the other Mondrian (M) does barge onto the scene. "What the kriff, Co-Deputy, where have -- dammit! What the hell! There you are!" He narrows his eyes at Navi. "What. Happened. Why did you let her get hurt?" 'Crane' looks genuinely confused. "I.. I don't know, what do you mean?" Rykard nods at Cayde. "You are right," he says to the young padawan. "I wished there was more we could do for the clone," he says, "but at this point, all we can do is hope that the Force is with him, and that the other Mandalorians do not wrongly put him behind bars." Then his brows arch. "You make a compelling point," he says to Zetha. "Perhaps there's more than one clone? Or, the baron has a twin brother..." It is something to consider, but Zetha may not get to comment on it, as she'll notice that suddenly, they're being approached by the local constabulary and the mayor himself, Hedge Niklas. "Ah.. Marshal, and hello to you too, Cayde. I.. have some bad news for you." 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' Navi rests a hand sympathetically on Mondrian's (F's) shoulder. She doesn't have the chance to offer any sympathetic words before Mondrian (M) stomps into view in a cloud of bluster. "And I bet you wonder why I don't include you in my investigations," she says, evenly but irritably. "You can calm down, right now, or I'm gone. I've got other business to take care of, and it doesn't begin to include your noise." 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha's glance shifts to Rykard and she seems to slump a little. "Perhaps. Who knows at this point..." There's not much more she wants to say about the matter as a whole and she might see if she can find Volken herself if he's still on the planet and ask him questions without the Jedi or Republic people around. Since no one is really forthcoming with much more information, the Twi'lek turns to make her leave just as the mayor is approaching the lot. "Any chance I can skip the bad news?" She asks, perhaps cheekily, but with a point of wanting to just bolt for home at this rate. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde shrugs. [I think twin maybe] he conjectures. [Looking the same but is different] he answers as best he can.     When Zetha starts to leave, he touches her shoulder gently to try to get her attention. <Wait...I can show you everything> he offers.     The padawan glances at the mayor. [What is wrong] he asks. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "I -am- calm!" Mondrian (M) fumes, fists clenched, a vein in his neck bulging like it's going to burst. But beneath the angry lines stretched taut across his expression there's an undercurrent of real concern. "What happened. What happened?!" Mondrian (F) won't look at her brother. She looks upset again. "Oh, hello there, Zetha! Congrats," Niklas says, glancing at 'Crane'. "The bad news isn't for you. How, er, is your mother?" Rykard frowns. "This doesn't come as a surprise to you padawan?" Rykard says. Then he turns his attention to the local constables. They step aside, and Cayde will espy a few familiar faces - Tommy, who is in tears, Peeka, the rascal little teenage Chadra Fan, and then perhaps to his surprise, Binny. There are a couple other teens but Cayde won't recognize them. "We caught them shoplifting from the local grocer," the constabulary says, "and they're from Aklyrr Bend. But we asked Thaarin about their records, and he says admin doesn't have them. Our folk don't know them, so they must have been stowaways." 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "If that's your definition of calm, you need to get a new dictionary. Stop and consider what this is doing to your blood pressure, okay?" Navi replies, a bit testily. "She got into a confrontation with some Mandalorians inside the hospital, and she and a Mandalorian woman drew pistols and shot each other. That's why she's wearing /my/ jacket... half the front of her uniform above the waist is gone. I healed both her and the Mandalorian woman, and there wasn't any more shooting after. Got it?" 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' There's a glance given back to Cayde just as Niklas begins to speak. She nods to Cayde, as if accepting his proposal to tell her everything. Seems like right now isn't the time though. "Mom's angry as always. I actually should go check in on her...otherwise I'm bound to get another earful..." Offering this as she looks to Crane. "We'll meet up again soon, I'm sure." And then she politely excuses herself and walks away from the adults and the children who are all teary and upset. Nope. Not touching THAT with a ten foot pole. She will likely make her way to wherever Wiis is staying at the moment. The hotel, wasn't it? 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     [I saw them in the gorge] Cayde replies to his master, nodding. He watches Zetha leave, looking a little confused. When would the baron take her to the lab? Again, he questions whether she needed to be involved...it could be rather dangerous.     He turns to the other teens. Stowaways....right. The padawan gives them a long, hard look. [They return to Coruscant with us...and stay] 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Mondrian's (M) expression glazes over. "I'm going to find that woman and gut her," he says, with an alarming calm that's uncharacteristic for him. Then without further comment, he turns on his heel and makes a hasty exit. Mondrian (F) is staring at the ground. "..." 'Crane' bids Zetha goodbye and then goes to find Navi and Mondrian (F). He frowns, noticing Mondrian's downcast expression. "Are you guys okay?" he asks innocuously. "Right, so that we can continue doing the same damn thing, in the Lower Levels, except that it doesn't matter there because the Jedi don't care about what happens to the people who live down there," he sneers. He jerks his arm away the local constable who's restraining him. "At least the colonists have plenty of food and shelter. But they won't share with us because it's against the -rules-," he says. "I'm just trying to survive. I was in the system, but I got out because I had to. Those families aren't really family, and don't give a shit about anyone or anything." 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "For your sister's sake, I'm going to give you some advice; /don't even think about doing that/. She has some very skilled and powerful friends, and that's before I add that I'm sure she could take you on all by herself. Don't ask for trouble. I don't want your sister to have to bury you," Navi says coldly to Mondrian (M) before he turns to leave. "Her brother's off to do something as ass-stupid as pick a fight with a Mandalorian woman in front of her friends. I'm worried that she'll have to bury his remains," she says to 'Crane'. "I just know I'm going to regret this, but I'm going after the brain donor. Maybe I can at least convince the Mandalorians to set for Stun." 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde sighs as Mondrian (M) storms off. He considers trying to enter his mind and dissuade him from doing anything rash, but maybe that would only make matters worse.     He turns back to the stowaways, his expression still unreadable. [I care] he signs, because at least he actually went down there on a regular basis. It wasn't just empty words. [But that is what will happen] They weren't supposed to be here, and that was that. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' 'Crane' sighs. "Good luck," he says, "Seems their best form of persuasion is violence. I would very much not like to see you return black and blue," he says, offering her a flower from a nearby tree. "Or you could just... not," Mondrian (F) says. "You could just let them deal with their own problems, as long as they don't concern us." There's a lengthy pause. "I could... I could use some company. Thanks for letting me use your jacket. But maybe you get it now. I hate that my brother is always like this." "Sure, and have you actually made a difference by going down there all the time? Everything seems pretty much the same to me." Binny sneers at Cayde, but Rykard interjects, "We'll have to look into it," Rykard says to the mayor, "we will not take them back to Coruscant if there's nowhere decent to place them where they will be treated well and can get an education." The mayor pauses. "I mean, yes. In all honesty, I was hoping that they would not be sent back, actually. I'd like for them to stay. I'd meant to talk to you and the co-deputies about my proposition to buy the convent from the Disciples and convert it into a space where both education and religion can co-exist and even collaborate. The education bit would involve a boarding school tailored for towards orphans and transitional youth." Rykard nods. "We'll discuss, but I need to have a chat with the other co-deputies." He then frowns at Cayde. "But before we bring Navi into this, you and I need to have a talk..." 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' Navi pauses long enough to hug Mondrian (F). "Ordinarily, I'd let things take their course. He's not my favorite person. To be kind. But he's your brother, and letting him get killed just doesn't feel right," she says softly. She accepts the flower from 'Crane'. "I'm not interested in getting beaten up, either. But I've got to do something to keep him from getting killed." She hugs Mondrian (F) for a moment more, though. And maybe another. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Oh....Cayde listens to the proposition from the mayor, and nods. Right, he'd mentioned that before.     He deflates when Rykard mentions they need to talk with that frown. [Yes master...] he signs, staring at the ground. 
}}

Republic Soil

2026-01-31T01:02:26Z

Andromeda:

{{Log Header
|Date of Scene=2025-12-20
|Cast of Characters=159, 444, 296, 143, 261, 418, 321
|pretty=yes
|Location=Kublop Springs - Tenoo - Outer Rim
}}
{{Poses
|Poses=:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' It has been a couple of weeks since the incident at the spaceport, and in that time a few things have transpired. Rykard had returned, and resumed his post as Marshal, though Cayde and Navi have remained co-deputies. Oona, as well has returned with Master Rykard, and has been helping with overseeing Aklyrr Bend. The second event of interest that had occurred is that a few hours after the incident at the spaceport, had been the finding of the clone the Mandalorians taken hostage. He'd apparently escaped Ellari's ship, by jumping from it into the water. This hadn't ended well for him, and currently, 'Jasper', or so he liked to call himself, has been in a coma at the hospital ever since. The third thing that would have occurred was the scouting of the area discovered from the bird's mind. The trash chute had been spotted from a distance, but getting there was going to prove to be difficult, as the chute empties into a hole inset into a cliff in the Gorge. Mondrian had plenty of ideas, but Rykard had deemed most of them too risky. Mondrian had also reached out to Zetha regarding getting into the lab, requesting a private update on her meeting with the baron. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' When Zetha gets the message from Mondrian, she responds with being up to meeting with Mondrian at some place and time that they likely agreed upon. Somewhere that could be private enough they could talk and not get interrupted. Or spied upon. 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     With the clone confined to the hospital, Ellari has been hanging around there, waiting to see if Von'egel will finally come out and attempt to collect his prize. Surely it must be worth a fortune. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     The chute must not be the only way in. If the chute was there, then the actual entry to lab must be nearby. But again, the terrain wasn't exactly friendly. So it seemed they were back at square one. For now, Cayde is spending time with his Master. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Zetha probably won't be surprised when Mondrian asks to meet her at the hospital, telling her that she's secured a private room with no security cameras with the help of the doctor. She also informs her that the Jedi have gathered at the hospital, at the request of the doctor. His hope is that with their help, they can wake the clone and once again try to get him to cooperate, or remember things he hadn't previously remembered. His last session with Cayde, the doctor had argued, hadn't been in an ideal environment or context so Cayde's attempts to find anything out had been hindered by the high amount of stress the clone had been experiencing. Navi, of course, had been invited along to accompany as well. So far, the other Von'egel hasn't seemed to show. Er'gi and probably Jorn, at the very least, have joined Ellari in hanging around the hospital, hoping that it's only a matter of time before he arrives. Kass has been strangely absent the past couple of weeks. He'd popped in here and there every few days, but his contribution to the effort of finding his twin brother had been near nil. All the times he'd shown his face to the other Mandalorians, he'd been drunk. 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "I hope this works... it feels like we've been at least three steps behind those Arkanians this whole time. The ship was a good breakthru, but we still don't have /them/," Navi murmurs, waiting with the others for the doctor to get things moving. "I just hope the clone's mind isn't so degraded that there's nothing left to find." 

:'''{{#var:418|Jorn (418)}} has posed:''' Jorn looks about. He's not happy about how things are unfolding. Still, he will just endure. Although he will check the other communicators he has. The ones that are not his. Looking for clues. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha goes to the hospital and then to the room where Mondrian asked her to meet at. Once she's in the room and the door closes, she'll take a seat where a free one is and crosses one leg over the other. She also glances up at the ceilings and around, almost like she's double checking to make sure that the room truly is free of any cameras - and she really hopes Mondrian isn't secretly hiding a recording device. 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' Volken is -- not with them! He's doing his own brand of investigation. Volken Mons style. He's been constantly feeling as if he's one step behind on what's going on and it's clear to him that the republic officer may have some insight here even if it's through the means of a 'side job' ... So he's letting the other Mandalorians deal with whatever they're dealing with and instead following on up on the chip and information he'd been given to seek out the republic officer for that 'job'. IF they call him? He ignores them unless it's a dire emergency. What is an emergency to Volken? Well that's for them to figure out! 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde is somewhat reluctant to try searching the clone's mind again, given the result last time hadn't been very useful. That, and it could have been worse. Much, much worse. 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     Speaking of commlinks, Ellari keeps trying to contact Volken, but keeps getting nothing. She glances at Jorn, frowning. "Has Volken said anything to you?" she asks, getting impatient. If Caine was going to show, he probably would have by now. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Rykard nods at Navi. "Have faith in the Force," he says to sagely. "Some progress is better than none. And the doctor says he feels hopeful that the clone's sanity may be surprisingly intact. However, we'll only know once he's awake." He glances to Cayde. "Come padawan, do not fear. You have me now, there is a much wider margin for error if one does arise." He leads Navi and Cayde towards the room where the clone is. And a clue may indeed arise, but it just depends on if Jorn picks up on it. Here comes Kass, strolling towards Ellari, Jorn, and Er'gi. He is not drunk this time, it would appear. Maybe they'll find that strange, or maybe they'll be relieved. He smiles broadly and waves, though it seems insincere. "Pardon my lateness... but shouldn't you all have headed into the hospital by now?" "Look, you can trust me," Mondrian says when Zetha seems to be checking out the room. "And you'll need to for this to have any measure of success. Now, did you get to talk to him, or not? What did he say?" Volken will find himself in Aklyrr Bend, near the administrative offices for the colony. Upon seeing him, the colonists seem intimidated and concerned. They whisper behind his back, but their words will be too quiet for Volken to distinguish. As he's making his way towards the offices, someone will go out of them as Volken is coming near. He might look familiar - Zeltron, red skin, purple eyes. His eyes immediately narrow upon seeing Volken and his left hand immediately goes for his gun. "You better have a good reason to be here," he says. 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "I hope so, Master," Navi replies, rising and following Master Rykard and Cayde into the room where the clone is being housed. "It's not the Force I doubt... it's the mad science of cloning, and its ability to hold together." 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha's eyes finally look over towards Mondrian and she seems to relax. Somewhat. "I did. Though by accident instead of how I intended to find him..." She offers. "We talked. He agreed to take me to the labratory...but I have to do something for him first. I have to get the DNA of Force users, and or Mandalorians. Once I've collected a few samples, I contact him the way I intended to the first time and we meet." She sighs. "Of course, I'm not supposed to tell anyone that. But I told Doctor Cassias...in a way...and now I'm telling you. So I really do hope I can trust you as much as I trust him. He's like a father to me." 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' "I'm sight seein'." Volken doesn't seem particularly bothered by the man or the fact that he's going for his gun. Nor is he bothered by the whispers or mutters. He draws attention where he goes. He'd be surprised and probably annoyed if he didn't! Something, however, makes him consider that -maayybeee- he should at least have a beacon ready. Just in case. Just in case Jorn and Ellari need to come res---find him. Cause Volken doesn't need rescuing. Of course. Never. "I'm here t'talk to Mondrian about a job." 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde still seems uncertain of himself, but he follows Rykard and Navi into the room. He can't help but be reminded of all the times his 'gifts' had only caused pain and suffering, especially recently. Navi doesn't seem very confident, either. Maybe he should stay out of this...he isn't the only telepath any more, after all. 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     Ellari rolls her eyes at Kass. "Surprised you're not drunk." she remarks. "And for what? If your brother was to show, he would have done so by now." She folds her arms. "Have you seen Volken?" 

:'''{{#var:418|Jorn (418)}} has posed:''' "Volken has said nothing to me," Jorn just waits a few moments spotting Cass. Just letting others go forward first. Because honestly? He doesn't quite trust himself to act rational. With Jorn's mood he would crank it up higher. So, he wants others to go in. They would help temper him. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "The Force is in all living things, Navi," Rykard offers cryptically. She may get the feeling it's supposed to be some kind of encouragement, but her mood may not be boosted. But Rykard pushes Cayde forward gently with a smile. "We'll do it all together," He says, "it'll be safer, and easier that way," he tells the young padawan as they enter the room where the clone lies on a hospital bed, inert. "Oh," Mondrian says, "well, other Mandalorians, that shouldn't be a problem. Force users...? Well, that might be risky. But I doubt he'd know the difference between getting cheek swab from some random fellow or a Force sensitive one. Only the Jedi have tools for measuring what's it now? Midi something? Anyway, I think I saw some of the Mandalorians lingering outside. It shouldn't be too hard to a strand of hair, or even maybe some blood. They do like a good fight, after all," she says casually with a shrug. "You can," she says, "No one who isn't supposed to know about this is going to know." She gets up to go out, and when she opens the door, she watches as Navi, Rykard and Cayde venture into the room where the clone is. Her expression softens. Then she turns to Zetha. "Let's go." The Zeltron man's eyes narrow even more and he's about unholster his blaster when the Republic officer from earlier appears in the doorway. "Take a walk, Vons," he says with a smirk. "He's not lying." His smirk then widens, and he beckons for Volken to come inside. "No," Kass says with a shrug. "Have you? For all I know, or care, that marauder he was tangling with killed him." Er'gi growls, but doesn't actually comment. He then scoffs. "You're all di'kut," Kass says, "If Volken is alive, he isn't with the three of you because you're nowhere nearer to finding my brother than you were a few weeks ago." "If my brother were to show, he wouldn't just wait for you all out here, or stroll into the front entrance of the hospital in broad daylight. He'd find a back entrance that no one's monitoring, and slip discreetly into the trauma ward when no one was looking." He rolls his eyes. "You can't seriously think he's that stupid." 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha nods and then she chuckles. "I said the same thing to Cassias. Like...I don't know what you all are planning to do...and how you plan to do it...all I'm doing is giving you the in." Which, when she thinks about it, that makes more sense now than it did the other night when she fought with Soren. So while she stands and begins to walk out with Mondrian, she pulls out her communicator and shoots off a quick message to the Doctor. <<Hey. Still upset with me? I get it now. I'm sorry I tried to say you couldn't go with me. You -should- go with me. Otherwise, there's not point in me doing all of this for you. Hope to talk soon. <3 >> Yes, she does include the heart emoji. Crane must be rubbing off on her a little. Then, almost suddenly, she offers, "I don't know how you or Navi felt when you found out I had ditched at the Cantina. I figured if I was going to get to talk to him, it would have to be alone. In a way, I was right. But I'm sorry I didn't give you any clue into it." She pauses. "I need to apologize to Navi too..." 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' "I'm taking a big risk by being here so I don't intend t'come back empty handed." rumbles Volken as he draws near, "You got information and a job. I want answers and some credits. Especially on what the connection is between those pirates and the Deputies. I'm about finished getting shot at, stabbed, burnt, dragged and otherwise harassed over the chaos goin' on, on this settlement and you know sometin' don't you..." Volken draws nearer though he gives 'Vons' a side glance. Or at least it looks like one given his helmet is still on. He then looks back to Mondrain. "So...how about it?" 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "I don't know whether that's encouraging or not, Master... clones are alive, and in theory the Force should also be in them. But cloning is illegal, and I can't help feeling that there is a good reason for that. Laws are not made on whims, unless your government is run solely by a single all-powerful but crazy individual, and we may hope that such a thing /never/ happens." She positions herself beside the clone's bed, lays both hands on its arm, and begins to draw upon the Force, focusing her energies upon penetrating into his mind to try and find a spark of sentience, and rekindle it into a flame... 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     [Yes master] Cayde signs, although he still doesn't feel very confident about this. He tries to focus more on unifying all efforts than on reaching into the clone. 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     "Hmph, he's not answering his commlink." Ellari grumbles when Jorn reveals Volken has not contacted him, either. "Have you tried him yourself?"     "Oh, well since you know him so well then, perhaps -you- should be leading this effort, instead of drinking yourself into a stupor every night?" Ellari throws back scathingly at Kass. She wants nothing more than to shoot him in the face right now, but unfortunately he's valuable at the moment, which she hates. "Well what are you waiting for, tell us where we should be looking for him." 

:'''{{#var:418|Jorn (418)}} has posed:''' Jorn will still just watch Kass for a moment, taking in the person. Although the Mando will see what communicators he still has on him that aren't his own. After he makes that assessment, he will see if they work. See if any new messages come in. Any that are meant for Kass and others. Just something to help coordinate. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "We'll figure it out," Mondrian says as they head for the front of the hospital. "Sometimes police work is flying by the skin of a krayt dragon's teeth," she offers, with a nod, "don't apologize for doing what was necessary. What we all want and need are results. Briefing everyone else can happen later." The doctor replies in a strangely timely fashion. <I'm not mad> A pause. <We'll talk soon, I'm still in Kublop. See you in a little bit> Mondrian chuckles and pulls out a flask of Nubian ale. "Don't worry, you won't," he says. "Well, Rykard's padawan I don't think considered him any kind of ally until after that incident with the witch. I don't know what exactly happened. But he came back changed and Rykard disappeared into the Gorge for months. And that was when it became alarmingly obvious that they'd connected, or something. When he came back to the colony, he was with Zealot. And Zealot came forth with all this damning evidence for a colonist who we had suspected for a long time had committed premeditated murder. Now, it wasn't quite that black and white, but that Dug was convicted on a charge of manslaughter, and is going to be sent back to Coruscant to be tried. Since then, Zealot's around way more, and Cayde? He's just different. I'd even go so far to say that the whole incident with the cortosis would have gone differently if he'd never met Zealot. Navi knew Zealot too, from before. I don't know how or when they met. But I have a sense that she'd probably go out of her way to protect him, too." He pours a glass for Volken and hands it to the massive Mandalorian. "You are right," Rykard says, "but just like every other living thing, we must treat him with respect." Then he closes his eyes and stretches out a hand as he, Navi, and Cayde jointly attempt to wake the clone. It works, quite well. The clone stirs, and sits up, looking a bit dazed, but at least coherent. "Where am I...." Kass doesn't reply, but he does gesture obscenely at her. "You have no idea what it's like to be me," he growls. "Now if you want to find my brother, then let's stop wasting time." He shoves past Jorn, bumping his shoulder roughly, as he starts heading for the west side of the hospital. There's a message from Thaelin on Kass' commlink, asking about the wedding gift, Volken, and Caine's general whereabouts. Well, he could provide an answer for one of those things, but that's probably the least of Jorn's worries at the moment. He'll suddenly get this feeling that something's off, or wrong. Ellari had brought up a good point. If Kass cared so much about finding Caine, then why hadn't he cut out the drinking and taken initiative like he suddenly is right now...? 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "You're in a hospital in Kublop Springs," Navi replies softly. "What is your name and your age? And do you know what planet you are on?" She's conducting some basic cognitive tests at this point. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Once the clone is awake, Cayde pulls back and lets Navi do the talking for now. 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     Ellari follows Kass, and finds herself wondering what Jorn might also be wondering...and she says as much. "So he suddenly decided to actually start helping, I -wonder- why the change of heart? Did something change?" she says to Jorn, but within obvious earshot of Kass. 

:'''{{#var:418|Jorn (418)}} has posed:''' Jorn will feel the shove and then he just looks at Kass for a moment. "Why the change of heart?" he asks Kass. There's a look going toward the man. "Ellari brought up some points. I've seen you much worse. Why the change -now-. Why not then? Why not before?" he doesn't believe that KAss's reasoning is entirely honest, or perhaps not honest at all. There might be something about circumstances that changed. He stares at the communicator for a moment. Knowing it's pinging off of places. He'll start to punch in a message. Just putting in a plethora of characters in the communicator that is not his own. A few buttons get pressed. Then he will turn it off. A look goes toward Cass, "I don't think it's charity, is it? What changed?" he asks and waits fora response. Unlock Ellari, Jorn is direct. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha is surprised by the quick reply from Soren but she does give a smile reading his words. Now she just follows Mondrian(F) and keeps silent. Well with words anyway. She types into her communicator a few more times. First to Wiis, <<Hey mom. Just wanted to check in and let you know I'm safe, just getting some work done. I should be home tonight to help clean up the house a bit more. Love you.>> Then, with that done, she sends a message to Crane. <<Hey. How are you feeling? Things healing up okay? Hope to see you soon! <3 >> "I suppose that's fair enough. Anyway. What's on the agenda now?" 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' "Because they're all connected....By The Force...." rumbles Volken as he takes the drink. "...So ...that's who got into my mind. It was Zealot. He's got those damn Force powers also. Is there anybody wrapped up in this nonsense who -isn't- some sort of damned sorcerer?" Volkend oesn't seem inclined to drink now but instead shakes his head, "But Cayde's loyal to his order. He woudln't betray his Jedi.... But he would make rash decisions if het hought it was for the greater good. I see that about him but Navi? Navi has a solid head on her shoulders... so she'd have some logic behind wanting to protect Zealot but it doesn't matter if they're working for Caine. What's the connection? Where is the Baron?" 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' The clone pauses, frowning. But he seems much more willing to cooperate now, perhaps the doctor had been right. "... My name is Jasper," he says. He suddenly tries to get out of the bed, but winces. "The boy. I want to see the --" Then he sees Cayde is standing there. "Oh," he says softly. "you're here." He looks back to Navi. "I am eight thousand and one hours old," He says, "I'm on Tenoo, and I need your help." "I drank, and drank, and drank until every single bartender in town banned me from their establishments. There's not that many, honestly. Then I spent too much time alone, bemoaning my circumstances, and now, I'm here. You should thank me. I'm your only hope for finding my brother." He ventures over to a window and peers into the hospital. "No one in the galley," he says, "As I suspected." He shoots the door lock, and then pushes his way in. Somewhere far away in Sundari, a certain female Mandalorian gets Jorn's message via Kass' commlink and starts to weep. After a good cry, she gets up and goes to speak with her brother, who knows where Kass had last reported he'd gone. Mondrian(F) has stopped right in front of the hospital entrance. "..." she frowns. "They're gone. That can't mean anything good," she says to Zetha, and starts running. Zetha will feel her commlink vibrate, but she might find that now isn't a good time to respond. Mondrian shrugs. "Yeah, well. That doesn't surprise me." He arches a brow at Volken. "You're just wrong, Volken. I bet you anything they've both been lying to you about ... a lot of things. Clearly you don't know anything about Zealot. He's a well renowned criminal in the Outer Rim." He shrugs bitterly. "No idea, and Rykard's banned me investigating anything that doesn't directly concern the physical safety and wellbeing of the colonists here in Aklyrr Bend." 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "Well, we also need your help. Maybe we can help each other," Navi replies softly. "How can we help you?" she continues, still gently. "And I'm also wondering why you want to see Cayde. Is that part of how we may be able to help you?" 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde arches a brow at Jasper when he says he wants to see him specifically. [And how do I help] he asks in sign. 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     "Pathetic," Ellari mutters as Kass admits he was banned from every bar. Obviously not for drinking as that wouldn't have been good for business, but obviously for disruptive conduct. But she follows him into the galley anyway.     However, she also notices Jorn sending a message. Was he attempting to raise Volken? Or was it someone else. "Who are you talking to? Have you heard anything from Volken yet?" 

:'''{{#var:418|Jorn (418)}} has posed:''' "I haven't heard from Volken. I would like to. When he goes missing things happen," usually they're good. He just knows regardless of good or bad, things will happen. "I'm trying to stir some hornet nests using some of our prisoners contacts," and he will keep going through the contacts, past messages and seeing if he could connect any dots between recent past and now. Something that could be used. 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' Volken doesn't answer at first. He seems to be pondering these words and then rumbles, "I don't believe Navi would try and trick and lie to me...and I don't believe that Cayde would lie to me either but that doesn't mean they aren't capable of making stupid decisions. IF they're protecting Zealot and think they're doing the right thing then ...." Volken quiets and then finally rumbles. "Zealot's working for the Baron. That much seems clear to me. I think we need to start being a little more forceful. Take the clone. Leave. The only reason why we even came to this rock was....for training. That's not even happening. We're being led around on chases that are leading us to dead ends and by people that won't listen to us. That much is true." After a final pause, Volken asks, "What's the job then? To take Zealot out?" 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "Wait... they who...what?" Zetha watches as Mondrian(F) runs off and then tilts her head. Should she run after the woman? Was Soren coming to the hospital? Then her commlink buzzes and she frowns. How many things can Zetha do at once? Not everything she wants to do, that's for sure. So she takes off running after Mondrian(F). 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "Well your help would be just as welcome," the clone says, "The more help, the better," He says, glancing at Cayde, Rykard, then Navi. "I... I want to be free," He says, "The baron, he just thinks of me as a toy, an experiment. Science, for science's sake. I used to think I actually meant something to him, other than just valuable research. But clearly, I don't, and I'm not even that anymore. If I was, he'd be here right now. He would have been here a long time ago. He clearly only cares about his own skin, and it's about time I took matters into my own hands and looked after myself." Kass doesn't reply to Ellari or Jorn. He ignores them for now, venturing deeper into the galley. After a few moments, he says, "Keep up," he says, "we probably don't have much time." "Yeah, well," he scoffs slightly. "Sometimes you think you know people, but...." "I can't let you waltz off world with the clone," Mondrian says. "Rykard's dead set on keeping him here, and doing what the doctor wants, which is to keep him at the hospital for as long as necessary. But you've got the right idea. I want Zealot gone." "Look," Mondrian(F) says, peering westward. "I think they went this way. The foliage is broken. They must have gone in a hurry, they didn't bother covering their tracks." Then she starts down the newly trodden path, without waiting to see if Zetha will follow or not. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' The last time Zetha followed someone who was no better than a stranger, part of her life blew up. She was told she could trust Mondrian(F) but..could she really. Especially since there's no answer to who left or anything just...follow me into the unknown! This is when Zetha just pauses and pulls out her commlink to check the message that was sent. Then she'll quickly text Soren. <<Mondrian just took off saying that someone or someones left but she won't say who and I don't like it...I have a bad feeling. Where are you? Where can I meet you?>> 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' "Ultimately the clone and the baron is Mandalorian business." warns Volken, "There's no other way to slice that. It's the clone of one of our nobles who is also a troublemaker and possibly wanted by my people for actions against our culture, our beliefs and repeated thefts of a sacred relic. We've been -this- patient about it all in the hopes that Cayde, Navi, somebody would get something out of him but we're within our rights to just take off with him and do whatever we need to do." Volken pauses and then rumbles, "But it doesn't have to -be- like that. If I agree to go after Zealot -you- agree to give Mandalorians free reign to do what we need to do here. No more republic officer harassment. No more keeping information from us. We'll take the conflict away from the colony and deal with Zealot." Volken quiets and then rumbles, "Or make me a counter offer." 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "What does being free, looking after yourself, mean to you?" Navi asks softly. "That probably sounds like a stupid question, but please, bear with me. You were created to be Mandalorian, if I'm correct. Being free and looking after yourself looks a lit different, and /is/ a lot different, if you're a Core Worlds citizen than if you're Mandalorian. But no matter what that answer looks like, the Baron clearly does not have your best interests at heart, and protecting you from him would be a worthy goal." "That said, there is something we need to know... where is the lab the Arkanians are, or maybe were, using to conduct cloning experiments? Just the fact that they may have created you for some reason outside of Republic control, in a hidden lab, while using Republic funds, and are continuing to hide, says their intentions aren't good." 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     [He is not here...so why you not free] Cayde asks. Did he have a tracker? An implant? Or some other device preventing him from acting freely?     [Need to find lab you came from] he continues, nodding at Navi's words. 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     "What do you mean? Like whom, exactly?" Ellari asks of Jorn when he gives a rather vague answer. "And to what end?"     Hmph...why hasn't Volken told them what he's up to? She mutters and continues to follow Kass through the galley. "What's your plan? We hide here until he comes trying to sneak in?" 

:'''{{#var:418|Jorn (418)}} has posed:''' "Anyone of his contacts. They talked to a lot of people. And something's going on with them. I can't figure it out yet," Jorn speaks candidly going through it all for a moment. "Yeah. I usually hear Volken's plans by now," he admits, a little shocked nothing explosive has gone off in the distant yet. Maybe even disappointed. "What's the play, Cass?" Jorn says firmly, just fighting the urge to shoot him. Repeatedly. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Soren replies <I'm at the hospital. Where are you? Last I checked Mondrian was supposed to be here too. What was she talking about?> Mondrian waves a hand dismissively. "Okay, okay, yeah, whatever. I can agree or disagree with you. It doesn't matter. If you step out of line Rykard is going to come for you. And I'm bound by the law to obey him." He holds his hands up. "No hard feelings. I swore an oath. And you of all people should understand that." When Volken suggests he let Volken do whatever the hell he wants, he chuckles and smirks. "That's a fair trade," He says. "I can look the other way for you. But don't expect me help you if Rykard comes for your ass he wants me to help him. I can only make up so many excuses for not being there for so long." "I want to be able to live and exist without worrying about who might take me hostage for their own purposes constantly. Whether it's the Baron's enemies, or maybe even baron himself and his gang of marauders if he changes his mind and decides I'm valuable research after all." "I want to go to Mandalore. And I can help you learn about the lab. A lot of my memories are missing - this is why I was looking for the boy. He showed me the possibility of recovering some of those memories." "Be. Quiet," Kass hisses at Ellari and Jorn. He presses his back against the wall near the door that's the exit to the galley. He briefly looks into the hallway. "We need to get close to where the clone is find a place to hide," he says, "That way, if he comes for the clone, we'll see him." 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' "Fair enough." says Volken. "I get Zealot taken care of. You keep Rykard off our backs for as long as possible. If the clone 'disappears' in the process - hey ...wasn't your fault. These things happen.. Do you have any leads on finding Zealot? Anything more then checking that damn gorge?" Volken rests both hands onto his hips. He's almost ready to call the others but...there's still pieces missing here. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' <<Wait. I'm at the hospital. Mondrian and I just sat in a room and talked. She said you had set it up for us so there wasn't anything recording. That I could trust her...>> Then Zetha turns and heads for Doctor Cassias' office, because that's the only place in the hospital she can think he is where they wouldn't have ran into each other. Her heart pounds in her chest while also sinking into her stomach. Her brain hurts. She's seconds from breaking down crying. By the time she reaches Soren's office, it's all over her face. The fear, the panic, the hurt...everything. Opening the door and praying he's there. "Soren?!" 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "I may have some questions about those Marauders, too. I wasn't able to check it out earlier, but there was a report of Marauders attacking a Mandalorian ship at the spaceport. I'm wondering if they are the same Marauders you mean," Navi observes. She looks to Master Rykard. "Does going to Mandalore sound like something we might be able to help him with?" Then she looks to Cayde. "Do you think you can help him get back those memories he's missing? Because it looks like dealing with those Arkanians depends on his memory." 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde sighs. [Are you sure want that...] he asks when an attempt at recovering memories is mentioned.     He nods to Navi. [But it is dangerous...might harm more than help] he warns. [Go to Mandalore we cannot help...Volken can help] 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     "What sort of--" Ellari begins to ask of Jorn, but then Kass tells them to quiet down. She peers out of the exit. "Any suggestions, then?" 

:'''{{#var:418|Jorn (418)}} has posed:''' Cass clues in the rest of the class, and Jorn takes his own look out of the allyway. Just not exactly trusting Cass, the Green colored Mandalorian takes his own look out to see what is weaiting for them. To see if Cass's sotry matches, or if something a little different waits for everyone. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "Mm. Yeah. Sure. No guarantees how distracted I'll be able to keep him, though. He's a Jedi and can do the whole --" Mondrian taps the side of his head. "You know." "Yeah, about that. That damn Gorge. That's all I got for you. But you know, Rykard's been there. Cayde and Navi, too. But they can't know I'm paying you take Zealot out. So. Play things carefully." Soren is about to exit his office just as Zetha runs in, on the brink of a crash out. He grabs her by her shoulders gently. "Zetha, I'm here. I'm okay. You're okay. You can trust Mondrian. Now can you tell me where Mondrian went?" "Yes," Jasper says, "they were trying to break me out. But after I jumped, they didn't come for me. And neither did the Baron." Rykard frowns. "Cayde is right. I am not sure we can assist. I could consult the Council, but it's not very likely that we will obtain their approval." "I'm sure," Jasper says when Cayde asks him. "I know it's risky. But I think it's worth the risk." When Cayde mentions Volken he scoffs. "-That- brute? I wouldn't trust him farther than I could throw with a flick of wrist!" Kass scowls when Jorn pushes past him and goes to look out the window in the galley door, but doesn't comment. Jorn will be able to see right down the hall and espy a sign that says, 'TRAUMA UNIT.' "See, the trauma unit is just up ahead," Kass says, "If the clone was anywhere, he would have been there..." 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' "My lips are sealed vod. Just make good on the payment when the time comes. Assuming the info you've given me is any good.. You leave Rykard to me. I'm pretty good at taking the blame for crazy things. It's cause I do crazy things." With that, Volken turns and if he's not stopped he'll prepare to step out of the building while also, finally, pinging his comm device on again. If nothing else, they'll know it's active even if he doesn't speak right away. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "Idon'tknowbutshesaidthatheyheadedwestandthenshewentafterthemandIwasn'tsureifIshouldgoafterherandnoweverythingiscrazyandIcan'tbefooledagain..." It all comes out of Zetha in such a rush of words and without her taking a breath that she damn near collapses into Soren once she's finished. "I can't...she ran into some wooded area and I just froze. I'm sorry..." 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "I don't know... I think the Mandalorians, Volk included, might hear us out if we let Jasper plead his case to them. Don't Mandalorians allow unrelated sentients to join their Clans? I thought I heard that somewhere. There might be certain conditions involved," Navi says. "As for the Council... if the Mandalorians are willing to take Jasper in, I don't see any reason the Council would need to know or worry about it. It would be strictly a Mandalorian affair. As for Volken, you don't know him, Jasper. I do. I think I could get him to listen to you." 

:'''{{#var:418|Jorn (418)}} has posed:''' "Seems to check out," Jorn says more to Ellari than Cass. "On your mark," Jorn says to Cass not giving the man a chance to betray them. However, he knows that there could be a lot of different things going on. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     [Volken will listen] Cayde reassures Jasper. Then he holds out a hand, waiting for the clone to take it and establish the physical contact that will make the connection stronger. 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     "What are we waiting for then, oh fearless leader?" Ellari asks dryly.     Then she notices Volken's commlink has become active again and she immediately tries to hail him again. << Volken...where are you >> 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "Oh don't you worry," Mondrian says with a smirk. "Don't worry, it will," he says with a nod, folding his arms as he watches Volken leave. He pats her gently on the shoulder, then hugs her briefly. "Slow down," He says softly and reassuringly. "It's alright. She ran into some wooded area? Do you know why?" "I suppose," Rykard says, "but I'm not terribly inclined to trust the Mandalorians. They are enemies of the Republic..." Jasper lifts his chin, his gaze flicking to Navi uncertainly before turning back to Cayde. "Will you promise to make him," He says, "If he doesn't...?" He starts to reach for Cayde's hand. Kass nods at Jorn, then at Ellari. He starts to countdown with his fingers, but just as he's about to put down his last finger and move ahead, Mondrian (F) appears in the doorway they'd just come through from outside, holding her blaster out. She points it at Kass, then Jorn. "You're trespassing!" she shouts. "Come out here with your hands up, quietly," she says, "and then state your business!" 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' Volken waits until he's some distance away from the office before turing around to glaance at it. He then looks around to see who is still watching him...before turning and beginning to move along on the road again. Then ...he finally answers back. <<Hey.>> There's silence for a moment as he thinks on how much to say and then. <> He pauses and then says, <<"I need to repair my whipcord first and grab some things. I"m coming back to the spaceport....>> 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "I don't think trying to force him to accept it is a good idea. That kind of thing is prone to failure and impossible to explain to a hostile target who knows what you just tried to do to him," Navi says. She looks to Master Rykard. "I understand your concern, Master, but if you can't see Mandalorians as anything but enemies of the Republic, then that is all they will ever be. Sometimes you have to build bridges on faith. Cayde, maybe you should tell Master Rykard about the training one of the youth among the Mandalorians was getting." A shout from further down the corridor draws a startled glance. "Pardon me a moment... I'm going to see just who's yelling about what," Navi murmurs, moving to peek out through the hospital room door. "It sounds like security." 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha shakes her head. "She just said...they were gone...and then ran off through some area that...I guess now that I think of it....it did look recently walked through..." Her shoulders drop then. "How bad did I mess up this time?" Which seems like something she does...every other time she does something. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde doesn't respond to the question of whether to manipulate Volken into helping Jasper or not, as he has turned his focus toward attempting to restore the clone's memories. He tries to be as gentle as possible, creating a peaceful mindscape like the Coruscant rooftop garden he'd visited with Navi and Zetha. They needed to go back to the beginning... 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     << What lead? >> Ellari demands in response. << You know where Zealot is? I'm not sure where the Jedi are, but I think I saw them go into the hospital >>     But then Mondrian suddenly appears and starts making demands. She smirks. "Now, now. I suggest you mind your own business, -officer-. This doesn't have to concern you, and it would be to your benefit if it didn't." 

:'''{{#var:418|Jorn (418)}} has posed:''' Jorn's gloved hand goes near a holster. He won't fire the first shot, but he's ready to fire the last one. Just patiently waiting to see how others handle this one. Ellari is the better talking between them anyway. 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' <<We need to canvas the gorge one more time. There's something we're missing. And this time -without- the Republic, deputies or the Jedi. Just us. Or me if you'd prefer. Doesn't matter... As to my lead? Can't tell you. Best if you didn't know for right now. Maybe after this blows over.. But I will say if we need to we should just take the clone and head back to Mandalore. Zealot first though. That might very well get us the real Baron...>> His voice trails off as the sound of the shouting comes through over the comm link. Volken pauses and goes quiet but he doesn't switch off just yet. Jorn, Er'gi and Kass should also see that his comm signal is active once more but the giant stays silent now and just ilstens in to catch what he can of what's going on. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' The clone frowns at Navi but doesn't say anything, as he closes his eyes and allows Cayde to usher him into a peaceful mindscape and doing his best to not resist Cayde at all. And then Cayde will be able to see his very first memory - his birth in a laboratory somewhere, deep underground, out of a container filled with amniotic fluid. "They can be more than that," Rykard concedes, "but they must prove themselves. Jorn seems relatively pure in motive, but the others... I have a few doubts about the others." But then there's shouting, and as Navi goes off to investigate it, she'll be able to tell it's not so far away. Just down the hall, and to the right... Meanwhile, Mondrian presses a button on her commlink, her gaze flicking to Ellari briefly. "This is Mondrian, I'm at the hospital in downtown Kublop, and I need backup..." Then she squeezes the trigger on her blaster. The doctor is about to respond to Zetha, but then he hears the sounds of Mondrian shouting. He suddenly takes off down the hall, holding up a hand. "Stay in my office," he shouts back to Zetha. 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     Just as Mondrian is going to call for backup, Ellari sports her going for her blaster and does the same. The shots go off simultaneously...and strike near simultaneously as well. Ell is struck in the neck just below the edge of her helmet, sending her to the floor with a loud -clang-, where she remains motionless for the moment... 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' Volken stops in the streets and frowns. He hears the shouting and the blaster fire going off. It's all very confusing sounding to him. He hears the thud of a body falling. <<...Ellari?>> 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "Tread carefully," Rykard tells Navi as she goes off to investigate the shouting, "I sense danger... and deception. Be warned," he tells the young Sephi girl as she leaves. If Navi makes her way towards the sound of all the shouting, she'll quickly find the situation as it had just happened - Ellari, nearly fatally wounded, and Mondrian in a similar condition. She's lying supine on the ground, eyes closed, barely breathing, a smoking hole in her chest! Somewhere, faintly in the background, she'll hear the sound of the doctor's voice shouting something, but he's too far away at the moment for her to understand exactly what he's saying. 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "Oh, for... /this/ is why I didn't want her wandering around on her own!" Navi grumbles. "Everybody mind not doing any more shooting? Because two half-dead bodies is enough for one day!" she adds, waving her arms over her head as she approaches the aftermath of the firefight. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Speaking of the doctor, he's left Zetha in his office. Door shut. And while everything screams at her to run after...she's had enough panic in the brain for one moment of time. So she flops down into a chair and rubs her fingers over her forehead, mumbling to herself things that ought just be left unknown to all others. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde tries to focus on the memory but also branch out from it. Yes, he already knows the lab was underground, but it was more important to find out -how- it was accessed. If Jasper had exited the lab at some point, how had he gotten out? He carefully tries to start edging the memory forward in time. How long had he stayed there? Maybe he'd even seen the Arkanians entering and exiting at some point before he himself had left. 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     Navi's healing proves effective to get Ellari at least conscious again. She groans and rubs the back of her neck briefly before picking up her blasters again, muttering obscenities in Mando'a. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' The doctor arrives shortly after Navi arrives upon the scene where Mondrian and Ellari are lying wounded on the ground, and examines Ellari briefly, but seeing as Navi is already tending to her, he goes over to Mondrian and lifts the upper part of her body up, and examines the wound. "It's bad," he tells Navi, "but as long as you can get to her in the next thirty to forty five minutes, she should be just fine." He covers the wound with a kolto patch for the time being. Well, at least Crane's replied to her text. He's asking her if she's alright, and that he's headed to the hospital at the moment. He doesn't specify why, though. Cayde will be able to tell that the clone is tracking. He's doing his best to remember. The last thing he recalls is being taken to a room and then being tranquilized. His memories after that are fuzzy, but he has a faint recollection of being on a berth inside some kind of vessel in a tunnel underground. He'd tried to remember the turns. Left, left, right, left again. And then they were out. When Ellari comes to, she'll discover that Kass had run off already. He'd be acting sort of weird earlier, and now it seems he's ditched them... 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Great, more tunnels...why was it always tunnels? And what else was down here that there were -other- turns? No, no he needs to stay focused on figuring out how Jasper had left the lab. And even more important, -where- he'd been when he'd exited.     Cayde again gently nudges the memory forward. What happened then? Where had he gone from there? Where had the Arkanians gone? Where was this 'entry' in the gorge, exactly... 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     Ell frowns, noticing Kass has disappeared again. She sighs and tries to contact him, although she doesn't exactly expect any productive to come of that.     << Kass...where the hell are you? Do you want to find your brother or not? >> 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha glances at her commlink and then sends a quick reply to Crane. <<I'm at the hospital. In Soren's office. Stuff's happened. If you want to hang out or whatever...I can't leave until Soren gets back.>> She leaves it at that. It may be partially untrue but she distinctly remembers Soren telling her to not leave his office. So she won't. At least not yet. 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "You might want to lie still... and put the pistols away. I have a feeling I don't want to know what happened here," Navi says to Ellari as she finishes her healing and stands, then moves to Mondrian's side and repeats the process. "Already on her, Doctor. Just help make sure nobody starts shooting at anyone, please?" 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' The Arkanians had been piloting the vessel, the clone remembers vaguely. They'd come out over a massive valley with fog covering it - Cayde will recognize it from the bird's memories. The Arkanians, unaware that he's somewhat awake, keep flying the vessel. The clone sits up, and peers discreetly out of one of the viewports, and catches sight of the trash chute opening from a distance. The memory then shifts focus to notice a small winged creature flying out of the chute... that must have been the bird. The memory then fades as vessel starts heading north towards Kublop. No response. Well, that definitely doesn't bode well for Ellari. "You should stay here and recuperate," the doctor advises Ellari. "Navi may have healed you, but you should rest up. Your body is still likely stressed from the trauma of the wound." <Ok> the Tholothian man replies. <I'll come find you soon, I promise. Is everything alright?> The doctor nods at Navi's instruction, and removes the kolto patch when Navi comes over to heal her. Once Navi finished, Mondrian's eyes fly open. "Navi!" She cries. "Are you alright? There was an intrusion--" 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "I'm fine, Mondrian. You, on the other hand, have a brand-new hole in you that I've just finished closing up, so I'd lie still and contemplate breathing normally, were I you," Navi replies to Mondrian. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     When Jasper looks out the window, Cayde tries to determine where the vessel had come out of in relation to that chute as the vehicle is rising up away from the ground. Unless he can pinpoint its location to some degree, this would have been a rather useless exercise... 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     Ellari grumbles when Kass, as expected, doesn't answer. She sighs and nods at his suggestion. "Fine. Are officers around here normally so quick to shoot first and ask questions later?" 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha looks at the message for a heartbeat or two before replying. <<No. But we'll just talk when you get here if you have time.>> Then she just curls up in the very comfy chair and rests her head on the back, closing her eyes. She might be in nap mode when Crane finds her. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "Oh," Mondrian, says, looking down at the now gaping hole in her shirt where the laser blast had struck her. There's a bit of indecency there, as the shot had struck her chest almost dead on. She blushes and covers the hole, embarrassed. "I was worried about you," she tells Navi, "The Mandalorians --" Then she seems to remember why and how she'd gotten shot and turns her gaze quickly over to Ellari. "You! What are you doing here!" There's a brief glimpse there, of a gate sliding shut behind them. It doesn't look too far from the chute, just directly east of it, but it's sort of hard to tell. The memory is fuzzy. The doctor's expression hardens. "Mandalorians aren't exactly on friendly terms with the Republic," he says, "and you are on Republic soil. That being said, we're not arresting you, you're now my patient and Navi will be the supervising officer regarding what happens to you next. However, you're not excused from explaining what you're doing here, sneaking in a back door." <Aw, sorry babe. I'll have time, don't worry> he replies. As he'd specified prior, 'Crane' arrives at the hospital, and makes a beeline for where Navi is. When he arrives, he assesses the situation quietly before tapping Navi on the shoulder gently. "Are you free for a walk in the gardens?" he asks quietly. Navi will be able to read his gaze. There's something important he wants to tell her. 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "If you reach for your weapon, you'll uncover that hole, and probably make half this room fall in love with you," Navi warns Mondrian softly. "The Mandalorian lady has a similar problem, I think. So both of you just lie quiet for a while, okay?" She looks to the Mandalorians. "I am curious as to what you're all doing here. I'm assuming your reasons were benign, but walking into a Republic hospital outside of visiting hours, especially when you're armed to the earrings and mustache-tips, is bound to result in awkward questions." She looks to 'Crane'. "It might have to wait a few minutes. I'm busy trying to keep a prior firefight from going off again." 

:'''{{#var:418|Jorn (418)}} has posed:''' "Weapons are part of our religion. To us, weapons are not arms. They are extension of faith. Similar to a Jedi with a lightsaber," Jorn says from his spot in the group as if to fend off why they're all so "armed." To them, it's just being faithful. 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     Ellari was about to say exactly what Jorn just said, but he beat her to the punch so she just nods. "What he said." she adds. "If the Jedi are allowed in with their lightsabers, why not us with blasters? Lightsaber are far more dangerous anyway." However, she doesn't elaborate on the reason for their presence, either.     Instead, she starts trying to contact Volken. << Kass ran off again. What other 'leads' were you talking about before? >> 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde frowns, trying to focus hard on that opening as the vessel flies away. Well, it didn't -look- like it was that far from the chute they'd seen. At least he knows what the gate looks like, but he wishes there was some quantifiable way to track its location. Like a signal from a beacon or comms array.     He finally withdraws, determining that this was probably the best Jasper can offer. 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' There's a sudden and loud *BOOM* followed by the warping and fracturing of the outside facing wall as it pushes inward from the impact fo some incredibly powerful and gigantic force -- and then *BOOOM* The wall to the room bursts inward in a plume of debris and dust. The floor shaking and the rest of the walls trembling as the large hole is revealed. Within the hole teh mammoth and unmistakable silohette of Volken of House Mons can be seen, looming into view., his gigantic repeater blasters slung over one bared shoulder and his other immense arm crackling flexed like a mountain range beneath his skin. Energy from his Shock-Knuckle Dusters crackling over his limbs as he looms there. Helmeted yet somehow glowring despite the lack of visible sight of his expression. He doesn't say anything immediately, instead taking a quick stock of the situation before rumbling in Man'doa: <<Pack your bags! We're checking out!>> 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Mondrian blushes even more furiously, but doesn't protest, and doesn't try to attack Ellari, so that's good, at least. The doctor takes a step back and lets Navi take over with a nod, backgrounding himself with 'Crane', who also nods politely and steps away. Jasper looks to Rykard and Cayde. "Well? Was I helpful?" he asks, clearly searching for validation. "Can you get me offworld now?" Meanwhile, Zetha will be interrupted while she lies curled up in a chair waiting for the doctor to return by the door suddenly opening. A tall, handsome stranger clad in beskar, with shiny, caf colored corkscrew curls and sapphire blue eyes slips in. It's clear he's trying to hide from someone. Or maybe multiple someones. He turns to her, surprised. "Zetha?" She'll immediately recognize his voice. Jasper, the Mandalorian she'd met (kissed, even!) behind the gravball club. As soon as Volken rolls up, knocking in the wall with guns blazing, Mondrian forgets about what Navi had just said and immediately reaches for her gun in an attempt to attack Volken! 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Well if the wall being busted down didn't wake up Zetha, the sudden appearance of someone in the same room as her surely does. She's up and taking a step back before her eyes narrow. "Jasper? What are you doing here?" Her eyes dart to the door - where she won't be able to run out of without passing him. Though she's not quite at flight mode just yet, she sure as anything is going to keep escape routes in mind. Though she also tries to hit something on her commlink to call either Soren or Crane - she's pressing by memory only. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde nods to the clone. [Some help yes] he signs, then looks to his master. [They used a gate...east of waste egress] he tells Rykard. The padawan leaves the answer of whether they can help him offworld or not to the elder Jedi. 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     Well, Ellari had been waiting for a response from Volken on the comms, when he simply bursts into the room. -Literally-. She rolls her eyes. "You know, there are things called doors." she remarks dryly to him. "And are you going to explain yourself or what? -Where- are we going and why? Have you located the baron?" 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' As Volken makes his entrance and Mondrian forgets all about not having half of the front of her uniform jacket and shirt anymore, Navi lunges in to save the woman's modesty and to keep her from hitting Volk... by half-tackling her and hugging her, almost pinning her pistol arm. "I hope you realize you just flashed the room again, precious," she whispers to Mondrian. Looking back toward Volk and the other Mandos, she says, "You always did know how to make an entrance. But people keep forgetting to tell me why they're here, and I'd like to get that oversight mended, preferably now." 

:'''{{#var:418|Jorn (418)}} has posed:''' Jorn pulls out his weapon and points it at Mondrian. "Probably shouldn't do that," he says firmly. "Lots of things can go wrong and he's built like a plasteel factory. You might need something bigger just for him to feel it," he warns Mondrian. And he doesn't react to Volken's sudden arrival. This is just the man's MO. Jorn is a little used to it by now. 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' The blaster shot actually scores past Volkens' massive shoulder,, searing and scarring the exposed flesh. True to Jorn's word, the behemothdoesn't seem tor feel it and instead turns his attention towards his attacker and begins taking heavy steps forward that seem to shake the room as he starts bearing down on his attacker. He seems to thik better of using a gigantic repeater cannon in the middle of a hospital but the crackle of energy and the clenching of his fist reveals his actual intentions. It's the ..utter calmness of Ellari and Jor that seem to pull his attention. She's not getting up to leave and she's responding to him in Basic--whuh? What kind of hospital rescue is this... <> he snaps in Man'doa, <<Then the last thing I heard was you getting shot and dropped to the ground! So..I cam to rescue you two! No! I haven't found him but I'm going after Zealot! That's our lead.>> He then switches back to Basic: "Alright.. So who shot who first?" He looms over both Navi and Mondrian but he visibly seems to restrain himself as if taking note of the shield Navi is providing but neither does he back off. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Rykard's brows raise. "Yes, I saw, young padawan. Well done. This was helpful." He then tells the clone, "Offworld, yes. Mandalore... well." There's a horrible crashing sound as Volken's bellowing and barreling disrupts the peace and quiet. "I don't know about that." He turns to Cayde. "We should investigate...it's about time we joined the other co-deputy." "Zetha, Zetha dearest," the charismatic Mandalorian says shortly after the sound of Volken breaking a wall or maybe two assaults their ears. "Don't worry about that I promise I'll explain everything later," he says. He reaches for her hand, flashing a charming smile. "Look, what I really need from you right now is a massive favor. A distraction, to be more precise. No one can know I'm here, especially not the other Mandalorians or the Jedi. There's someone here I need to visit very urgently. It's upstairs, in the trauma unit. Listen, in return, I'll see what I can do about giving you view access to some experiments that I've witnessed but not worked on. I have clandestine associates who have privately been conducting research that could be a massive breakthrough in modern medicine. It could save lives. Surely you'd be interested in seeing it first hand?" Mondrian blushes again, and her shot goes astray, just barely scraping Volken. The behemoth doesn't seem to notice. "G-Get off of me!" she cries, trying to wiggle out of Navi's grasp. "He's just caused thousands of credits worth of property damage to the Republic...!" When Jorn pulls out his weapon and aims it at Mondrian, the doctor gets up and reaches over, trying to push the hand with the weapon down. "Please, for the love of light, stop!" he says. "This is a hospital, for kriff's sake. Answer the co-deputy's question, and then we can all go about our business peaceably!" Before anyone can answer Volken, 'Crane' suddenly steps forward. Volken may recognize him - from a very long time ago, on Jedha, the time he'd been there when the Temple of the Kyber had been raided. This young Tholothian man had been there, notable for his extraordinary good looks and unforgettable indigo eyes. He smiles broadly at the Mandalorian, perhaps disarmingly. "Volken of Mons," he says, "how good it is to see you again! The Force has a way of bringing good souls together again, does it not? I must thank you again personally and on behalf of the other Disciples for your service to the Temple. We are eternally grateful and indebted." He bows politely. "How is it then, that you've ended up here? Perhaps you could tell me over... a drink?" 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "Mondrian, did they teach you a thing called 'tactical awareness' in the academy?" Navi asks the squirming officer. "Putting aside the issue that your round twin girls are trying to come out to play because you have a gigantic hole where the top half of your uniform should be, there's one of you and not less than four Mandalorians... eight Mandalorians, if we were to go by mass alone. All of which means you want me to stay right here. Just calm down and focus on getting your breath back. By the way, which of you shot first? Or was it more of a simultaneous thing?" And then 'Crane' enters, and Navi can't help but stare. "Now I've seen almost everything," she murmurs. She doesn't miss the Doctor trying to push Jorn's pistol down, though. "Be careful, Doctor. It's been an eventful day already..." And just then her comlink earbud chimes softly. Touching a button on the earbud, Navi asks, "Yes? What is it?" 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde nods and follows Rykard toward the sound of the disturbance, finding Volken and the other Mandalorians, and Mondrian and....Amarik there. What was he doing here? But there is also another presence nearby. Not the clone, but the host.     He frowns and turns, heading toward the office wing. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "Don't..." Zetha begins, looking to the hand that reaches for her own and then that smile. She steps back once more. "Don't Zetha Dearest me, Jasper. For kriff's sake..." She recgonizes many voices beyond the door to Soren's office and that causes her to shake her head. "Are you kidding me right now? Do you KNOW who all is out there? Nevermind the hospital staff and the Jedi... the Big Scary Mandalorian is out there...and why would YOU need to hide from THEM anyway? Aren't you all on the same team or something?" His promises are getting greater, but so are his asks, and Zetha looks towards the door once more. This may not go the way Jasper wants or Zetha needs. There's a breath. A heartbeat. And then Zetha's shoulders drop and she shakes her head. "I mean, I suppose I -could- actually make a distraction...but you certainly won't like it..." Then she runs for the door, small office, tight space...she just hopes she can make it to at least getting the door open and shouting "HELP!" Sorry Navi... 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     Ellari stares at Volken for a moment, then look to Jorn, then back to Volken again. "I don't need -rescuing-." she says in Mando'a. "But fine. Let's go." She starts to leave out the hole Volken made, although she stumbles a bit. 

:'''{{#var:418|Jorn (418)}} has posed:''' Jorn is tempted to pull out the other blaster with his free hand, but everything seems to be in motion. He'll giv a nod to his friends. Well, fellow mando. "I was just making sure people held cooler heads," he says knowing Ellari can handle themselves. That didn't mean calmer minds couldn't prevail. 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' Volken inclines his head slighlty, looking down at Mondrian and Navi. Maybe he's thinking. Maybe he's trying to sneak a peek! Helmets are good for ambiguity. Ellari's stumble catches his attention, however and he shakes his head mildly but doesn't move to help her.. He nods his head towards Jorn and then finally turns his attention to Crane. "Oh yeah..." he rumbles, as his memory returns to him on the matter. "Well ..look at you. Eeh.. " He makes a shoulder shrug, rolling the muscle to indicate the direction of the hoe he made. "Not quite the best time to start talking about drinks but sure. Later." Volken look sover the room once again and then says, "We're taking the clone also. -No more interference-. You help us or you stay out of the way. THis is Mandalorian business. He's a clone of one of our nobles who is -also- a fugitive. You don't get to keep him and keep poking at his mind and then not sharing what you've learned. Where is he? I don't give a damn what your Republic laws or your Jedi Council thinks. He's Mandalorian--sort of. We came here for training and -that- hasn't happened so I'm taking charge now. Objections? I hope so..." 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "Of course I did!" Mondrian probably finally manages to free herself of Navi. Her face is cherry red, perhaps from anger, perhaps in embarrassment. "Will everyone just stop getting their limbs twisted into a bunch over me?! I'm a cop, dammit. Was even lead detective for a year or so. I can kriffing take care of myself. I don't need anyone fawning over me like I'm some kind of damsel in distress!" She reaches for her weapon again, but finds it's still overheated. She grumbles and tosses it aside angrily, and starts storming off. Rykard frowns when Cayde suddenly just stops, turns around, and starts walking away. <... Cayde?> But he doesn't stop heading towards where the Mandalorians and Navi are. "I believe in you," Jasper says smoothly and perhaps very convincingly. "You could -- " But then she starts yelling for help. She's right, he didn't like it, but he's going to take advantage of it nonetheless. Once she slips out and into the hallway, he quickly pushes past her and starts heading for the trauma unit in the upper level. The doctor sighs in exasperation. "Cooler heads? You're the one holding up a weapon inside a damned hospital..." He pinches the bridge of his nose. "Wait!" 'Crane' says, suddenly reaching out to touch Volken on the shoulder gently. "Taking a civilian hostage? Volken of Mons, this isn't like you," he says, shaking his head. "All the Disciples back at the Temple, they think of you as a hero. Even the younglings are told your story, that fateful day you helped us at the Temple. What would they think if they knew you were doing this now?" 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha speaks quick, not knowing it was Navi she called, but thankful it was Navi who answered. "He's here. He ran up into the trauma unit. Something about needing to see someone...if you're quick..." Then she turns and actually heads after Jasper thinking maybe if she can stall him then people can catch up. Maybe catching him would put an end to all of this quicker. Or...something quicker anyway. Unsure of how far behind him she is, she'll at least try to keep him in her sights as she follows. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     <The baron is here> Cayde answers his master telepathically, and quickens his pace toward the trauma unit where he'd just come from. He notices Zetha also heading that way as they are both after Caine, and he meets her gaze with a knowing look. Had she managed to convince him to let her into the lab? Maybe then, hunting through the gorge without exact coordinates wouldn't be necessary. That would be much preferable. 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "At this point it's hard to care much about that clone guy, except for getting some well-earned payback," Navi replies to Volk, standing and helping Mondrian to her feet, then shrugging off her jacket and draping it around Mondrian's front. "And technically, I did provide a little in the way of lessons to your friend, but have not had time for more. I wasn't even supposed to be the teacher." Zetha's cries for help come through about them, and she looks to Volk and the Doctor and hurries toward the office. 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     "Who said anything about a hostage?" Ellari argues with Crane accuses them of taking hostages. "This is -very much- Mandalorian business." she nods, emphasizing Volken's point. "I don't know why Republic law enforcement is insisting on meddling in it. It's not as if this is Coruscant or anything." she grumbles, glaring at Mondrian.     Her glare is then turned toward 'Crane'. "And what business is this of yours, as well?! Volken, is this a friend of yours?" 

:'''{{#var:418|Jorn (418)}} has posed:''' "I did not draw first," Jorn is quick to point out to the Doctor. That they were peaceful until things went sidewise with the others. How the shooting began against Volken. Everything else. 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' "Enoguh with yoru bellyaching. Obviously if I wanted to really damage the hospital and it's patients I could have done it. Twice over by now. Bombs. Shooting from outside. Sitting on the roof.." These words are directed towards the doctor. Volken's head turning ever so slightly in that direction as the man continues berating Jorn and the huge Mandalorian comes to the aid of the other Mando verbally. The words of Crane do seem to settle something in him though and the giant -slighlty- relaxes. Slightly. "Nobody is taking anyone hostage." he says, confirming Ellari's words. "But I -am- taking charge...." His head turns slighlty towards Navi "...And I'm not blamin' you...." His words are softer, mildly restrained there but then his tone hardens again and his deep voice rumbles. "But I'm not intersted in running in circles anymore. The clone comes with us. No deals and I want all information on The Marauders that you have." He pauses and then adds. "Please." 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Thankfully for Zetha, Jasper remains unaware that she's following him. He heads straight for the lift and continues on his way towards the trauma unit... The doctor nods at Navi as she hurries off towards the sound of Zetha's cries for help, his expression weary. Then he turns to Volken, his gaze hardening. "You -wouldn't-," he says, "you claim honor is a pillar of your culture--!" When Ellari reprimands him, 'Crane' looks frightened. "I don't know anything! I'm just a Disciple of the Whill. Not even a Guardian. My daily duties including cleaning and care of the plants at the convent here. All I know is that if anything of suspicious interest happens, its in the Gorge." He takes a step back, and hangs his head. When Volken says the clone is going with them, 'Crane' gives Volken a sad, wide-eyed look, the kind an akk pup whose tail had just been crushed gives. "And if the clone doesn't want to go?" His indigo eyes exude child like disappointment and sadness. <Very well> Rykard replies. <Keep me updated, and don't let him take the clone against his will> He then arrives on the scene where Volken, Ellari, Jorn and everyone else is. "Then he will not be going with them," Rykard announces firmly. "No one is forcing anyone to do anything against their will, unless they've committed a galactic crime or offense. But about the Marauders. We will tell you what we know, but it will have to be a peaceable talk. My padawan, and Navi - the co deputies. They will know the most." 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' There's sheer relief on Zetha's face as she spots Cayde coming towards her. She actually stops, because where else is Jasper going to go after the trauma ward? She looks a Cayde and then back towards the offices and such. <Where is everyone?> She signs to him, since signing is quiet. That's followed with <I'm sorry.> Cause, she didn't really mean to cause any trouble but the man just waltzed into Soren's office! "We need to stall him. Or just catch him. Tie him to a bed or something..." This she says outloud and with a smirk. 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' "-BZZYT- Wrong." says Volken to Rykard. "He barely knows what he wants and he's the key to figuring out this mess. He's coming to Mandalore unless -we- Mandalorians agree, with him, that it's not for the best. Not you. Us. One. Two. Three--and I guess Er'gi. And Kass maybe. As I said. No deals. You've all called the shots with him enough and w'e're still stuck in the same place not to mention you thinking you have any right to tell us what to do in regards to our own internal affairs." Volken's eyes narrow slightly, however as 'Crane' speaks up. "You know a lot about what goes on in the ravine?" Suspicion is clear in his tone now, made all the worse by the way the guy is looking at him. "....Stop looking like that." He then nods his head towards Ellari, "..Answer her." 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     "You haven't answered the question of why this is any of your concern." Ellari points out to 'Crane'. "You just randomly showed up here and started asking questions. Unless...you have some -other- agendas we aren't aware of?" she asks, a brow going up in suspicion. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     A nod is given toward Zetha at her suggestions. [Why sorry...] Cayde asks, looking a little confused.     Then, he follows up with: [Did he say you can go to the lab] 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "You are on Republic soil," The elder Ikkrukki thunders. Then, more quietly, he says, "We've spoken to him," Rykard reiterates firmly. "What he wants is to be free. To not be treated as property by the baron, or coerced into going places and doing things he never agreed to by a group of strangers. You may not have known, but he bears no loyalty to the baron. He wishes to go to Mandalore, but of his own accord and to be given the freedom to do as he pleases once there. He didn't choose this, and were you in his shoes, born into a lab and treated like a womp rat and forced to pledge loyalty to a man who sees him as a toy for science, you would -also- resist. Perhaps if you approach him more diplomatically, he will be more agreeable to help you in your cause." 'Crane's' expression becomes even more frightened. "No, I don't!" he says, "I just know the rumors that circulate Kublop, that's all. It's strange, dangerous, and somewhere down there, is the marauder base. That's what the townsfolk say." He disobeys Volken when he tells him to stop looking like that. In fact, his crushed look becomes even more grieved. "... I mean, you're right. It's not my business. I don't know anything about the clone, except that he's here in the hospital, and that must mean he's injured. Then you came here and wanted to take him away. As a Disciple of the Whill, I care about the life and freedom of all sentient beings. Especially those who seem to have come from a place of suffering. But who am I to try to ask you to do anything? I'm just a Disciple." He turns away to leave, shoulders drooping. Eventually, Cayde and Zetha will probably reach the room where the clone is. Well, was. When they arrive, they'll find he's no longer on the berth. But there's a note there left on the datapad there. And the baron? He seems to have vacated the premises as well. However, it does look like he didn't reach the clone in time, thankfully. 
}}

Republic Soil

2026-01-31T01:01:50Z

Andromeda: Created page with "{{Log Header |Date of Scene=2025-12-20 |Cast of Characters=159, 444, 296, 143, 261, 418, 321 |pretty=yes }} {{Poses |Poses=:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' It has been a couple of weeks since the incident at the spaceport, and in that time a few things have transpired. Rykard had returned, and resumed his post as Marshal, though Cayde and Navi have remained co-deputies. Oona, as well has returned with Master Rykard, and has been helping with overse..."

{{Log Header
|Date of Scene=2025-12-20
|Cast of Characters=159, 444, 296, 143, 261, 418, 321
|pretty=yes
}}
{{Poses
|Poses=:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' It has been a couple of weeks since the incident at the spaceport, and in that time a few things have transpired. Rykard had returned, and resumed his post as Marshal, though Cayde and Navi have remained co-deputies. Oona, as well has returned with Master Rykard, and has been helping with overseeing Aklyrr Bend. The second event of interest that had occurred is that a few hours after the incident at the spaceport, had been the finding of the clone the Mandalorians taken hostage. He'd apparently escaped Ellari's ship, by jumping from it into the water. This hadn't ended well for him, and currently, 'Jasper', or so he liked to call himself, has been in a coma at the hospital ever since. The third thing that would have occurred was the scouting of the area discovered from the bird's mind. The trash chute had been spotted from a distance, but getting there was going to prove to be difficult, as the chute empties into a hole inset into a cliff in the Gorge. Mondrian had plenty of ideas, but Rykard had deemed most of them too risky. Mondrian had also reached out to Zetha regarding getting into the lab, requesting a private update on her meeting with the baron. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' When Zetha gets the message from Mondrian, she responds with being up to meeting with Mondrian at some place and time that they likely agreed upon. Somewhere that could be private enough they could talk and not get interrupted. Or spied upon. 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     With the clone confined to the hospital, Ellari has been hanging around there, waiting to see if Von'egel will finally come out and attempt to collect his prize. Surely it must be worth a fortune. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     The chute must not be the only way in. If the chute was there, then the actual entry to lab must be nearby. But again, the terrain wasn't exactly friendly. So it seemed they were back at square one. For now, Cayde is spending time with his Master. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Zetha probably won't be surprised when Mondrian asks to meet her at the hospital, telling her that she's secured a private room with no security cameras with the help of the doctor. She also informs her that the Jedi have gathered at the hospital, at the request of the doctor. His hope is that with their help, they can wake the clone and once again try to get him to cooperate, or remember things he hadn't previously remembered. His last session with Cayde, the doctor had argued, hadn't been in an ideal environment or context so Cayde's attempts to find anything out had been hindered by the high amount of stress the clone had been experiencing. Navi, of course, had been invited along to accompany as well. So far, the other Von'egel hasn't seemed to show. Er'gi and probably Jorn, at the very least, have joined Ellari in hanging around the hospital, hoping that it's only a matter of time before he arrives. Kass has been strangely absent the past couple of weeks. He'd popped in here and there every few days, but his contribution to the effort of finding his twin brother had been near nil. All the times he'd shown his face to the other Mandalorians, he'd been drunk. 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "I hope this works... it feels like we've been at least three steps behind those Arkanians this whole time. The ship was a good breakthru, but we still don't have /them/," Navi murmurs, waiting with the others for the doctor to get things moving. "I just hope the clone's mind isn't so degraded that there's nothing left to find." 

:'''{{#var:418|Jorn (418)}} has posed:''' Jorn looks about. He's not happy about how things are unfolding. Still, he will just endure. Although he will check the other communicators he has. The ones that are not his. Looking for clues. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha goes to the hospital and then to the room where Mondrian asked her to meet at. Once she's in the room and the door closes, she'll take a seat where a free one is and crosses one leg over the other. She also glances up at the ceilings and around, almost like she's double checking to make sure that the room truly is free of any cameras - and she really hopes Mondrian isn't secretly hiding a recording device. 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' Volken is -- not with them! He's doing his own brand of investigation. Volken Mons style. He's been constantly feeling as if he's one step behind on what's going on and it's clear to him that the republic officer may have some insight here even if it's through the means of a 'side job' ... So he's letting the other Mandalorians deal with whatever they're dealing with and instead following on up on the chip and information he'd been given to seek out the republic officer for that 'job'. IF they call him? He ignores them unless it's a dire emergency. What is an emergency to Volken? Well that's for them to figure out! 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde is somewhat reluctant to try searching the clone's mind again, given the result last time hadn't been very useful. That, and it could have been worse. Much, much worse. 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     Speaking of commlinks, Ellari keeps trying to contact Volken, but keeps getting nothing. She glances at Jorn, frowning. "Has Volken said anything to you?" she asks, getting impatient. If Caine was going to show, he probably would have by now. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Rykard nods at Navi. "Have faith in the Force," he says to sagely. "Some progress is better than none. And the doctor says he feels hopeful that the clone's sanity may be surprisingly intact. However, we'll only know once he's awake." He glances to Cayde. "Come padawan, do not fear. You have me now, there is a much wider margin for error if one does arise." He leads Navi and Cayde towards the room where the clone is. And a clue may indeed arise, but it just depends on if Jorn picks up on it. Here comes Kass, strolling towards Ellari, Jorn, and Er'gi. He is not drunk this time, it would appear. Maybe they'll find that strange, or maybe they'll be relieved. He smiles broadly and waves, though it seems insincere. "Pardon my lateness... but shouldn't you all have headed into the hospital by now?" "Look, you can trust me," Mondrian says when Zetha seems to be checking out the room. "And you'll need to for this to have any measure of success. Now, did you get to talk to him, or not? What did he say?" Volken will find himself in Aklyrr Bend, near the administrative offices for the colony. Upon seeing him, the colonists seem intimidated and concerned. They whisper behind his back, but their words will be too quiet for Volken to distinguish. As he's making his way towards the offices, someone will go out of them as Volken is coming near. He might look familiar - Zeltron, red skin, purple eyes. His eyes immediately narrow upon seeing Volken and his left hand immediately goes for his gun. "You better have a good reason to be here," he says. 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "I hope so, Master," Navi replies, rising and following Master Rykard and Cayde into the room where the clone is being housed. "It's not the Force I doubt... it's the mad science of cloning, and its ability to hold together." 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha's eyes finally look over towards Mondrian and she seems to relax. Somewhat. "I did. Though by accident instead of how I intended to find him..." She offers. "We talked. He agreed to take me to the labratory...but I have to do something for him first. I have to get the DNA of Force users, and or Mandalorians. Once I've collected a few samples, I contact him the way I intended to the first time and we meet." She sighs. "Of course, I'm not supposed to tell anyone that. But I told Doctor Cassias...in a way...and now I'm telling you. So I really do hope I can trust you as much as I trust him. He's like a father to me." 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' "I'm sight seein'." Volken doesn't seem particularly bothered by the man or the fact that he's going for his gun. Nor is he bothered by the whispers or mutters. He draws attention where he goes. He'd be surprised and probably annoyed if he didn't! Something, however, makes him consider that -maayybeee- he should at least have a beacon ready. Just in case. Just in case Jorn and Ellari need to come res---find him. Cause Volken doesn't need rescuing. Of course. Never. "I'm here t'talk to Mondrian about a job." 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde still seems uncertain of himself, but he follows Rykard and Navi into the room. He can't help but be reminded of all the times his 'gifts' had only caused pain and suffering, especially recently. Navi doesn't seem very confident, either. Maybe he should stay out of this...he isn't the only telepath any more, after all. 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     Ellari rolls her eyes at Kass. "Surprised you're not drunk." she remarks. "And for what? If your brother was to show, he would have done so by now." She folds her arms. "Have you seen Volken?" 

:'''{{#var:418|Jorn (418)}} has posed:''' "Volken has said nothing to me," Jorn just waits a few moments spotting Cass. Just letting others go forward first. Because honestly? He doesn't quite trust himself to act rational. With Jorn's mood he would crank it up higher. So, he wants others to go in. They would help temper him. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "The Force is in all living things, Navi," Rykard offers cryptically. She may get the feeling it's supposed to be some kind of encouragement, but her mood may not be boosted. But Rykard pushes Cayde forward gently with a smile. "We'll do it all together," He says, "it'll be safer, and easier that way," he tells the young padawan as they enter the room where the clone lies on a hospital bed, inert. "Oh," Mondrian says, "well, other Mandalorians, that shouldn't be a problem. Force users...? Well, that might be risky. But I doubt he'd know the difference between getting cheek swab from some random fellow or a Force sensitive one. Only the Jedi have tools for measuring what's it now? Midi something? Anyway, I think I saw some of the Mandalorians lingering outside. It shouldn't be too hard to a strand of hair, or even maybe some blood. They do like a good fight, after all," she says casually with a shrug. "You can," she says, "No one who isn't supposed to know about this is going to know." She gets up to go out, and when she opens the door, she watches as Navi, Rykard and Cayde venture into the room where the clone is. Her expression softens. Then she turns to Zetha. "Let's go." The Zeltron man's eyes narrow even more and he's about unholster his blaster when the Republic officer from earlier appears in the doorway. "Take a walk, Vons," he says with a smirk. "He's not lying." His smirk then widens, and he beckons for Volken to come inside. "No," Kass says with a shrug. "Have you? For all I know, or care, that marauder he was tangling with killed him." Er'gi growls, but doesn't actually comment. He then scoffs. "You're all di'kut," Kass says, "If Volken is alive, he isn't with the three of you because you're nowhere nearer to finding my brother than you were a few weeks ago." "If my brother were to show, he wouldn't just wait for you all out here, or stroll into the front entrance of the hospital in broad daylight. He'd find a back entrance that no one's monitoring, and slip discreetly into the trauma ward when no one was looking." He rolls his eyes. "You can't seriously think he's that stupid." 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha nods and then she chuckles. "I said the same thing to Cassias. Like...I don't know what you all are planning to do...and how you plan to do it...all I'm doing is giving you the in." Which, when she thinks about it, that makes more sense now than it did the other night when she fought with Soren. So while she stands and begins to walk out with Mondrian, she pulls out her communicator and shoots off a quick message to the Doctor. <<Hey. Still upset with me? I get it now. I'm sorry I tried to say you couldn't go with me. You -should- go with me. Otherwise, there's not point in me doing all of this for you. Hope to talk soon. <3 >> Yes, she does include the heart emoji. Crane must be rubbing off on her a little. Then, almost suddenly, she offers, "I don't know how you or Navi felt when you found out I had ditched at the Cantina. I figured if I was going to get to talk to him, it would have to be alone. In a way, I was right. But I'm sorry I didn't give you any clue into it." She pauses. "I need to apologize to Navi too..." 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' "I'm taking a big risk by being here so I don't intend t'come back empty handed." rumbles Volken as he draws near, "You got information and a job. I want answers and some credits. Especially on what the connection is between those pirates and the Deputies. I'm about finished getting shot at, stabbed, burnt, dragged and otherwise harassed over the chaos goin' on, on this settlement and you know sometin' don't you..." Volken draws nearer though he gives 'Vons' a side glance. Or at least it looks like one given his helmet is still on. He then looks back to Mondrain. "So...how about it?" 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "I don't know whether that's encouraging or not, Master... clones are alive, and in theory the Force should also be in them. But cloning is illegal, and I can't help feeling that there is a good reason for that. Laws are not made on whims, unless your government is run solely by a single all-powerful but crazy individual, and we may hope that such a thing /never/ happens." She positions herself beside the clone's bed, lays both hands on its arm, and begins to draw upon the Force, focusing her energies upon penetrating into his mind to try and find a spark of sentience, and rekindle it into a flame... 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     [Yes master] Cayde signs, although he still doesn't feel very confident about this. He tries to focus more on unifying all efforts than on reaching into the clone. 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     "Hmph, he's not answering his commlink." Ellari grumbles when Jorn reveals Volken has not contacted him, either. "Have you tried him yourself?"     "Oh, well since you know him so well then, perhaps -you- should be leading this effort, instead of drinking yourself into a stupor every night?" Ellari throws back scathingly at Kass. She wants nothing more than to shoot him in the face right now, but unfortunately he's valuable at the moment, which she hates. "Well what are you waiting for, tell us where we should be looking for him." 

:'''{{#var:418|Jorn (418)}} has posed:''' Jorn will still just watch Kass for a moment, taking in the person. Although the Mando will see what communicators he still has on him that aren't his own. After he makes that assessment, he will see if they work. See if any new messages come in. Any that are meant for Kass and others. Just something to help coordinate. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "We'll figure it out," Mondrian says as they head for the front of the hospital. "Sometimes police work is flying by the skin of a krayt dragon's teeth," she offers, with a nod, "don't apologize for doing what was necessary. What we all want and need are results. Briefing everyone else can happen later." The doctor replies in a strangely timely fashion. <I'm not mad> A pause. <We'll talk soon, I'm still in Kublop. See you in a little bit> Mondrian chuckles and pulls out a flask of Nubian ale. "Don't worry, you won't," he says. "Well, Rykard's padawan I don't think considered him any kind of ally until after that incident with the witch. I don't know what exactly happened. But he came back changed and Rykard disappeared into the Gorge for months. And that was when it became alarmingly obvious that they'd connected, or something. When he came back to the colony, he was with Zealot. And Zealot came forth with all this damning evidence for a colonist who we had suspected for a long time had committed premeditated murder. Now, it wasn't quite that black and white, but that Dug was convicted on a charge of manslaughter, and is going to be sent back to Coruscant to be tried. Since then, Zealot's around way more, and Cayde? He's just different. I'd even go so far to say that the whole incident with the cortosis would have gone differently if he'd never met Zealot. Navi knew Zealot too, from before. I don't know how or when they met. But I have a sense that she'd probably go out of her way to protect him, too." He pours a glass for Volken and hands it to the massive Mandalorian. "You are right," Rykard says, "but just like every other living thing, we must treat him with respect." Then he closes his eyes and stretches out a hand as he, Navi, and Cayde jointly attempt to wake the clone. It works, quite well. The clone stirs, and sits up, looking a bit dazed, but at least coherent. "Where am I...." Kass doesn't reply, but he does gesture obscenely at her. "You have no idea what it's like to be me," he growls. "Now if you want to find my brother, then let's stop wasting time." He shoves past Jorn, bumping his shoulder roughly, as he starts heading for the west side of the hospital. There's a message from Thaelin on Kass' commlink, asking about the wedding gift, Volken, and Caine's general whereabouts. Well, he could provide an answer for one of those things, but that's probably the least of Jorn's worries at the moment. He'll suddenly get this feeling that something's off, or wrong. Ellari had brought up a good point. If Kass cared so much about finding Caine, then why hadn't he cut out the drinking and taken initiative like he suddenly is right now...? 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "You're in a hospital in Kublop Springs," Navi replies softly. "What is your name and your age? And do you know what planet you are on?" She's conducting some basic cognitive tests at this point. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Once the clone is awake, Cayde pulls back and lets Navi do the talking for now. 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     Ellari follows Kass, and finds herself wondering what Jorn might also be wondering...and she says as much. "So he suddenly decided to actually start helping, I -wonder- why the change of heart? Did something change?" she says to Jorn, but within obvious earshot of Kass. 

:'''{{#var:418|Jorn (418)}} has posed:''' Jorn will feel the shove and then he just looks at Kass for a moment. "Why the change of heart?" he asks Kass. There's a look going toward the man. "Ellari brought up some points. I've seen you much worse. Why the change -now-. Why not then? Why not before?" he doesn't believe that KAss's reasoning is entirely honest, or perhaps not honest at all. There might be something about circumstances that changed. He stares at the communicator for a moment. Knowing it's pinging off of places. He'll start to punch in a message. Just putting in a plethora of characters in the communicator that is not his own. A few buttons get pressed. Then he will turn it off. A look goes toward Cass, "I don't think it's charity, is it? What changed?" he asks and waits fora response. Unlock Ellari, Jorn is direct. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha is surprised by the quick reply from Soren but she does give a smile reading his words. Now she just follows Mondrian(F) and keeps silent. Well with words anyway. She types into her communicator a few more times. First to Wiis, <<Hey mom. Just wanted to check in and let you know I'm safe, just getting some work done. I should be home tonight to help clean up the house a bit more. Love you.>> Then, with that done, she sends a message to Crane. <<Hey. How are you feeling? Things healing up okay? Hope to see you soon! <3 >> "I suppose that's fair enough. Anyway. What's on the agenda now?" 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' "Because they're all connected....By The Force...." rumbles Volken as he takes the drink. "...So ...that's who got into my mind. It was Zealot. He's got those damn Force powers also. Is there anybody wrapped up in this nonsense who -isn't- some sort of damned sorcerer?" Volkend oesn't seem inclined to drink now but instead shakes his head, "But Cayde's loyal to his order. He woudln't betray his Jedi.... But he would make rash decisions if het hought it was for the greater good. I see that about him but Navi? Navi has a solid head on her shoulders... so she'd have some logic behind wanting to protect Zealot but it doesn't matter if they're working for Caine. What's the connection? Where is the Baron?" 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' The clone pauses, frowning. But he seems much more willing to cooperate now, perhaps the doctor had been right. "... My name is Jasper," he says. He suddenly tries to get out of the bed, but winces. "The boy. I want to see the --" Then he sees Cayde is standing there. "Oh," he says softly. "you're here." He looks back to Navi. "I am eight thousand and one hours old," He says, "I'm on Tenoo, and I need your help." "I drank, and drank, and drank until every single bartender in town banned me from their establishments. There's not that many, honestly. Then I spent too much time alone, bemoaning my circumstances, and now, I'm here. You should thank me. I'm your only hope for finding my brother." He ventures over to a window and peers into the hospital. "No one in the galley," he says, "As I suspected." He shoots the door lock, and then pushes his way in. Somewhere far away in Sundari, a certain female Mandalorian gets Jorn's message via Kass' commlink and starts to weep. After a good cry, she gets up and goes to speak with her brother, who knows where Kass had last reported he'd gone. Mondrian(F) has stopped right in front of the hospital entrance. "..." she frowns. "They're gone. That can't mean anything good," she says to Zetha, and starts running. Zetha will feel her commlink vibrate, but she might find that now isn't a good time to respond. Mondrian shrugs. "Yeah, well. That doesn't surprise me." He arches a brow at Volken. "You're just wrong, Volken. I bet you anything they've both been lying to you about ... a lot of things. Clearly you don't know anything about Zealot. He's a well renowned criminal in the Outer Rim." He shrugs bitterly. "No idea, and Rykard's banned me investigating anything that doesn't directly concern the physical safety and wellbeing of the colonists here in Aklyrr Bend." 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "Well, we also need your help. Maybe we can help each other," Navi replies softly. "How can we help you?" she continues, still gently. "And I'm also wondering why you want to see Cayde. Is that part of how we may be able to help you?" 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde arches a brow at Jasper when he says he wants to see him specifically. [And how do I help] he asks in sign. 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     "Pathetic," Ellari mutters as Kass admits he was banned from every bar. Obviously not for drinking as that wouldn't have been good for business, but obviously for disruptive conduct. But she follows him into the galley anyway.     However, she also notices Jorn sending a message. Was he attempting to raise Volken? Or was it someone else. "Who are you talking to? Have you heard anything from Volken yet?" 

:'''{{#var:418|Jorn (418)}} has posed:''' "I haven't heard from Volken. I would like to. When he goes missing things happen," usually they're good. He just knows regardless of good or bad, things will happen. "I'm trying to stir some hornet nests using some of our prisoners contacts," and he will keep going through the contacts, past messages and seeing if he could connect any dots between recent past and now. Something that could be used. 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' Volken doesn't answer at first. He seems to be pondering these words and then rumbles, "I don't believe Navi would try and trick and lie to me...and I don't believe that Cayde would lie to me either but that doesn't mean they aren't capable of making stupid decisions. IF they're protecting Zealot and think they're doing the right thing then ...." Volken quiets and then finally rumbles. "Zealot's working for the Baron. That much seems clear to me. I think we need to start being a little more forceful. Take the clone. Leave. The only reason why we even came to this rock was....for training. That's not even happening. We're being led around on chases that are leading us to dead ends and by people that won't listen to us. That much is true." After a final pause, Volken asks, "What's the job then? To take Zealot out?" 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "Wait... they who...what?" Zetha watches as Mondrian(F) runs off and then tilts her head. Should she run after the woman? Was Soren coming to the hospital? Then her commlink buzzes and she frowns. How many things can Zetha do at once? Not everything she wants to do, that's for sure. So she takes off running after Mondrian(F). 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "Well your help would be just as welcome," the clone says, "The more help, the better," He says, glancing at Cayde, Rykard, then Navi. "I... I want to be free," He says, "The baron, he just thinks of me as a toy, an experiment. Science, for science's sake. I used to think I actually meant something to him, other than just valuable research. But clearly, I don't, and I'm not even that anymore. If I was, he'd be here right now. He would have been here a long time ago. He clearly only cares about his own skin, and it's about time I took matters into my own hands and looked after myself." Kass doesn't reply to Ellari or Jorn. He ignores them for now, venturing deeper into the galley. After a few moments, he says, "Keep up," he says, "we probably don't have much time." "Yeah, well," he scoffs slightly. "Sometimes you think you know people, but...." "I can't let you waltz off world with the clone," Mondrian says. "Rykard's dead set on keeping him here, and doing what the doctor wants, which is to keep him at the hospital for as long as necessary. But you've got the right idea. I want Zealot gone." "Look," Mondrian(F) says, peering westward. "I think they went this way. The foliage is broken. They must have gone in a hurry, they didn't bother covering their tracks." Then she starts down the newly trodden path, without waiting to see if Zetha will follow or not. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' The last time Zetha followed someone who was no better than a stranger, part of her life blew up. She was told she could trust Mondrian(F) but..could she really. Especially since there's no answer to who left or anything just...follow me into the unknown! This is when Zetha just pauses and pulls out her commlink to check the message that was sent. Then she'll quickly text Soren. <<Mondrian just took off saying that someone or someones left but she won't say who and I don't like it...I have a bad feeling. Where are you? Where can I meet you?>> 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' "Ultimately the clone and the baron is Mandalorian business." warns Volken, "There's no other way to slice that. It's the clone of one of our nobles who is also a troublemaker and possibly wanted by my people for actions against our culture, our beliefs and repeated thefts of a sacred relic. We've been -this- patient about it all in the hopes that Cayde, Navi, somebody would get something out of him but we're within our rights to just take off with him and do whatever we need to do." Volken pauses and then rumbles, "But it doesn't have to -be- like that. If I agree to go after Zealot -you- agree to give Mandalorians free reign to do what we need to do here. No more republic officer harassment. No more keeping information from us. We'll take the conflict away from the colony and deal with Zealot." Volken quiets and then rumbles, "Or make me a counter offer." 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "What does being free, looking after yourself, mean to you?" Navi asks softly. "That probably sounds like a stupid question, but please, bear with me. You were created to be Mandalorian, if I'm correct. Being free and looking after yourself looks a lit different, and /is/ a lot different, if you're a Core Worlds citizen than if you're Mandalorian. But no matter what that answer looks like, the Baron clearly does not have your best interests at heart, and protecting you from him would be a worthy goal." "That said, there is something we need to know... where is the lab the Arkanians are, or maybe were, using to conduct cloning experiments? Just the fact that they may have created you for some reason outside of Republic control, in a hidden lab, while using Republic funds, and are continuing to hide, says their intentions aren't good." 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     [He is not here...so why you not free] Cayde asks. Did he have a tracker? An implant? Or some other device preventing him from acting freely?     [Need to find lab you came from] he continues, nodding at Navi's words. 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     "What do you mean? Like whom, exactly?" Ellari asks of Jorn when he gives a rather vague answer. "And to what end?"     Hmph...why hasn't Volken told them what he's up to? She mutters and continues to follow Kass through the galley. "What's your plan? We hide here until he comes trying to sneak in?" 

:'''{{#var:418|Jorn (418)}} has posed:''' "Anyone of his contacts. They talked to a lot of people. And something's going on with them. I can't figure it out yet," Jorn speaks candidly going through it all for a moment. "Yeah. I usually hear Volken's plans by now," he admits, a little shocked nothing explosive has gone off in the distant yet. Maybe even disappointed. "What's the play, Cass?" Jorn says firmly, just fighting the urge to shoot him. Repeatedly. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Soren replies <I'm at the hospital. Where are you? Last I checked Mondrian was supposed to be here too. What was she talking about?> Mondrian waves a hand dismissively. "Okay, okay, yeah, whatever. I can agree or disagree with you. It doesn't matter. If you step out of line Rykard is going to come for you. And I'm bound by the law to obey him." He holds his hands up. "No hard feelings. I swore an oath. And you of all people should understand that." When Volken suggests he let Volken do whatever the hell he wants, he chuckles and smirks. "That's a fair trade," He says. "I can look the other way for you. But don't expect me help you if Rykard comes for your ass he wants me to help him. I can only make up so many excuses for not being there for so long." "I want to be able to live and exist without worrying about who might take me hostage for their own purposes constantly. Whether it's the Baron's enemies, or maybe even baron himself and his gang of marauders if he changes his mind and decides I'm valuable research after all." "I want to go to Mandalore. And I can help you learn about the lab. A lot of my memories are missing - this is why I was looking for the boy. He showed me the possibility of recovering some of those memories." "Be. Quiet," Kass hisses at Ellari and Jorn. He presses his back against the wall near the door that's the exit to the galley. He briefly looks into the hallway. "We need to get close to where the clone is find a place to hide," he says, "That way, if he comes for the clone, we'll see him." 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' "Fair enough." says Volken. "I get Zealot taken care of. You keep Rykard off our backs for as long as possible. If the clone 'disappears' in the process - hey ...wasn't your fault. These things happen.. Do you have any leads on finding Zealot? Anything more then checking that damn gorge?" Volken rests both hands onto his hips. He's almost ready to call the others but...there's still pieces missing here. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' <<Wait. I'm at the hospital. Mondrian and I just sat in a room and talked. She said you had set it up for us so there wasn't anything recording. That I could trust her...>> Then Zetha turns and heads for Doctor Cassias' office, because that's the only place in the hospital she can think he is where they wouldn't have ran into each other. Her heart pounds in her chest while also sinking into her stomach. Her brain hurts. She's seconds from breaking down crying. By the time she reaches Soren's office, it's all over her face. The fear, the panic, the hurt...everything. Opening the door and praying he's there. "Soren?!" 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "I may have some questions about those Marauders, too. I wasn't able to check it out earlier, but there was a report of Marauders attacking a Mandalorian ship at the spaceport. I'm wondering if they are the same Marauders you mean," Navi observes. She looks to Master Rykard. "Does going to Mandalore sound like something we might be able to help him with?" Then she looks to Cayde. "Do you think you can help him get back those memories he's missing? Because it looks like dealing with those Arkanians depends on his memory." 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde sighs. [Are you sure want that...] he asks when an attempt at recovering memories is mentioned.     He nods to Navi. [But it is dangerous...might harm more than help] he warns. [Go to Mandalore we cannot help...Volken can help] 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     "What sort of--" Ellari begins to ask of Jorn, but then Kass tells them to quiet down. She peers out of the exit. "Any suggestions, then?" 

:'''{{#var:418|Jorn (418)}} has posed:''' Cass clues in the rest of the class, and Jorn takes his own look out of the allyway. Just not exactly trusting Cass, the Green colored Mandalorian takes his own look out to see what is weaiting for them. To see if Cass's sotry matches, or if something a little different waits for everyone. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "Mm. Yeah. Sure. No guarantees how distracted I'll be able to keep him, though. He's a Jedi and can do the whole --" Mondrian taps the side of his head. "You know." "Yeah, about that. That damn Gorge. That's all I got for you. But you know, Rykard's been there. Cayde and Navi, too. But they can't know I'm paying you take Zealot out. So. Play things carefully." Soren is about to exit his office just as Zetha runs in, on the brink of a crash out. He grabs her by her shoulders gently. "Zetha, I'm here. I'm okay. You're okay. You can trust Mondrian. Now can you tell me where Mondrian went?" "Yes," Jasper says, "they were trying to break me out. But after I jumped, they didn't come for me. And neither did the Baron." Rykard frowns. "Cayde is right. I am not sure we can assist. I could consult the Council, but it's not very likely that we will obtain their approval." "I'm sure," Jasper says when Cayde asks him. "I know it's risky. But I think it's worth the risk." When Cayde mentions Volken he scoffs. "-That- brute? I wouldn't trust him farther than I could throw with a flick of wrist!" Kass scowls when Jorn pushes past him and goes to look out the window in the galley door, but doesn't comment. Jorn will be able to see right down the hall and espy a sign that says, 'TRAUMA UNIT.' "See, the trauma unit is just up ahead," Kass says, "If the clone was anywhere, he would have been there..." 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' "My lips are sealed vod. Just make good on the payment when the time comes. Assuming the info you've given me is any good.. You leave Rykard to me. I'm pretty good at taking the blame for crazy things. It's cause I do crazy things." With that, Volken turns and if he's not stopped he'll prepare to step out of the building while also, finally, pinging his comm device on again. If nothing else, they'll know it's active even if he doesn't speak right away. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "Idon'tknowbutshesaidthatheyheadedwestandthenshewentafterthemandIwasn'tsureifIshouldgoafterherandnoweverythingiscrazyandIcan'tbefooledagain..." It all comes out of Zetha in such a rush of words and without her taking a breath that she damn near collapses into Soren once she's finished. "I can't...she ran into some wooded area and I just froze. I'm sorry..." 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "I don't know... I think the Mandalorians, Volk included, might hear us out if we let Jasper plead his case to them. Don't Mandalorians allow unrelated sentients to join their Clans? I thought I heard that somewhere. There might be certain conditions involved," Navi says. "As for the Council... if the Mandalorians are willing to take Jasper in, I don't see any reason the Council would need to know or worry about it. It would be strictly a Mandalorian affair. As for Volken, you don't know him, Jasper. I do. I think I could get him to listen to you." 

:'''{{#var:418|Jorn (418)}} has posed:''' "Seems to check out," Jorn says more to Ellari than Cass. "On your mark," Jorn says to Cass not giving the man a chance to betray them. However, he knows that there could be a lot of different things going on. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     [Volken will listen] Cayde reassures Jasper. Then he holds out a hand, waiting for the clone to take it and establish the physical contact that will make the connection stronger. 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     "What are we waiting for then, oh fearless leader?" Ellari asks dryly.     Then she notices Volken's commlink has become active again and she immediately tries to hail him again. << Volken...where are you >> 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "Oh don't you worry," Mondrian says with a smirk. "Don't worry, it will," he says with a nod, folding his arms as he watches Volken leave. He pats her gently on the shoulder, then hugs her briefly. "Slow down," He says softly and reassuringly. "It's alright. She ran into some wooded area? Do you know why?" "I suppose," Rykard says, "but I'm not terribly inclined to trust the Mandalorians. They are enemies of the Republic..." Jasper lifts his chin, his gaze flicking to Navi uncertainly before turning back to Cayde. "Will you promise to make him," He says, "If he doesn't...?" He starts to reach for Cayde's hand. Kass nods at Jorn, then at Ellari. He starts to countdown with his fingers, but just as he's about to put down his last finger and move ahead, Mondrian (F) appears in the doorway they'd just come through from outside, holding her blaster out. She points it at Kass, then Jorn. "You're trespassing!" she shouts. "Come out here with your hands up, quietly," she says, "and then state your business!" 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' Volken waits until he's some distance away from the office before turing around to glaance at it. He then looks around to see who is still watching him...before turning and beginning to move along on the road again. Then ...he finally answers back. <<Hey.>> There's silence for a moment as he thinks on how much to say and then. <> He pauses and then says, <<"I need to repair my whipcord first and grab some things. I"m coming back to the spaceport....>> 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "I don't think trying to force him to accept it is a good idea. That kind of thing is prone to failure and impossible to explain to a hostile target who knows what you just tried to do to him," Navi says. She looks to Master Rykard. "I understand your concern, Master, but if you can't see Mandalorians as anything but enemies of the Republic, then that is all they will ever be. Sometimes you have to build bridges on faith. Cayde, maybe you should tell Master Rykard about the training one of the youth among the Mandalorians was getting." A shout from further down the corridor draws a startled glance. "Pardon me a moment... I'm going to see just who's yelling about what," Navi murmurs, moving to peek out through the hospital room door. "It sounds like security." 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha shakes her head. "She just said...they were gone...and then ran off through some area that...I guess now that I think of it....it did look recently walked through..." Her shoulders drop then. "How bad did I mess up this time?" Which seems like something she does...every other time she does something. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde doesn't respond to the question of whether to manipulate Volken into helping Jasper or not, as he has turned his focus toward attempting to restore the clone's memories. He tries to be as gentle as possible, creating a peaceful mindscape like the Coruscant rooftop garden he'd visited with Navi and Zetha. They needed to go back to the beginning... 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     << What lead? >> Ellari demands in response. << You know where Zealot is? I'm not sure where the Jedi are, but I think I saw them go into the hospital >>     But then Mondrian suddenly appears and starts making demands. She smirks. "Now, now. I suggest you mind your own business, -officer-. This doesn't have to concern you, and it would be to your benefit if it didn't." 

:'''{{#var:418|Jorn (418)}} has posed:''' Jorn's gloved hand goes near a holster. He won't fire the first shot, but he's ready to fire the last one. Just patiently waiting to see how others handle this one. Ellari is the better talking between them anyway. 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' <<We need to canvas the gorge one more time. There's something we're missing. And this time -without- the Republic, deputies or the Jedi. Just us. Or me if you'd prefer. Doesn't matter... As to my lead? Can't tell you. Best if you didn't know for right now. Maybe after this blows over.. But I will say if we need to we should just take the clone and head back to Mandalore. Zealot first though. That might very well get us the real Baron...>> His voice trails off as the sound of the shouting comes through over the comm link. Volken pauses and goes quiet but he doesn't switch off just yet. Jorn, Er'gi and Kass should also see that his comm signal is active once more but the giant stays silent now and just ilstens in to catch what he can of what's going on. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' The clone frowns at Navi but doesn't say anything, as he closes his eyes and allows Cayde to usher him into a peaceful mindscape and doing his best to not resist Cayde at all. And then Cayde will be able to see his very first memory - his birth in a laboratory somewhere, deep underground, out of a container filled with amniotic fluid. "They can be more than that," Rykard concedes, "but they must prove themselves. Jorn seems relatively pure in motive, but the others... I have a few doubts about the others." But then there's shouting, and as Navi goes off to investigate it, she'll be able to tell it's not so far away. Just down the hall, and to the right... Meanwhile, Mondrian presses a button on her commlink, her gaze flicking to Ellari briefly. "This is Mondrian, I'm at the hospital in downtown Kublop, and I need backup..." Then she squeezes the trigger on her blaster. The doctor is about to respond to Zetha, but then he hears the sounds of Mondrian shouting. He suddenly takes off down the hall, holding up a hand. "Stay in my office," he shouts back to Zetha. 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     Just as Mondrian is going to call for backup, Ellari sports her going for her blaster and does the same. The shots go off simultaneously...and strike near simultaneously as well. Ell is struck in the neck just below the edge of her helmet, sending her to the floor with a loud -clang-, where she remains motionless for the moment... 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' Volken stops in the streets and frowns. He hears the shouting and the blaster fire going off. It's all very confusing sounding to him. He hears the thud of a body falling. <<...Ellari?>> 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "Tread carefully," Rykard tells Navi as she goes off to investigate the shouting, "I sense danger... and deception. Be warned," he tells the young Sephi girl as she leaves. If Navi makes her way towards the sound of all the shouting, she'll quickly find the situation as it had just happened - Ellari, nearly fatally wounded, and Mondrian in a similar condition. She's lying supine on the ground, eyes closed, barely breathing, a smoking hole in her chest! Somewhere, faintly in the background, she'll hear the sound of the doctor's voice shouting something, but he's too far away at the moment for her to understand exactly what he's saying. 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "Oh, for... /this/ is why I didn't want her wandering around on her own!" Navi grumbles. "Everybody mind not doing any more shooting? Because two half-dead bodies is enough for one day!" she adds, waving her arms over her head as she approaches the aftermath of the firefight. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Speaking of the doctor, he's left Zetha in his office. Door shut. And while everything screams at her to run after...she's had enough panic in the brain for one moment of time. So she flops down into a chair and rubs her fingers over her forehead, mumbling to herself things that ought just be left unknown to all others. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde tries to focus on the memory but also branch out from it. Yes, he already knows the lab was underground, but it was more important to find out -how- it was accessed. If Jasper had exited the lab at some point, how had he gotten out? He carefully tries to start edging the memory forward in time. How long had he stayed there? Maybe he'd even seen the Arkanians entering and exiting at some point before he himself had left. 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     Navi's healing proves effective to get Ellari at least conscious again. She groans and rubs the back of her neck briefly before picking up her blasters again, muttering obscenities in Mando'a. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' The doctor arrives shortly after Navi arrives upon the scene where Mondrian and Ellari are lying wounded on the ground, and examines Ellari briefly, but seeing as Navi is already tending to her, he goes over to Mondrian and lifts the upper part of her body up, and examines the wound. "It's bad," he tells Navi, "but as long as you can get to her in the next thirty to forty five minutes, she should be just fine." He covers the wound with a kolto patch for the time being. Well, at least Crane's replied to her text. He's asking her if she's alright, and that he's headed to the hospital at the moment. He doesn't specify why, though. Cayde will be able to tell that the clone is tracking. He's doing his best to remember. The last thing he recalls is being taken to a room and then being tranquilized. His memories after that are fuzzy, but he has a faint recollection of being on a berth inside some kind of vessel in a tunnel underground. He'd tried to remember the turns. Left, left, right, left again. And then they were out. When Ellari comes to, she'll discover that Kass had run off already. He'd be acting sort of weird earlier, and now it seems he's ditched them... 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Great, more tunnels...why was it always tunnels? And what else was down here that there were -other- turns? No, no he needs to stay focused on figuring out how Jasper had left the lab. And even more important, -where- he'd been when he'd exited.     Cayde again gently nudges the memory forward. What happened then? Where had he gone from there? Where had the Arkanians gone? Where was this 'entry' in the gorge, exactly... 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     Ell frowns, noticing Kass has disappeared again. She sighs and tries to contact him, although she doesn't exactly expect any productive to come of that.     << Kass...where the hell are you? Do you want to find your brother or not? >> 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha glances at her commlink and then sends a quick reply to Crane. <<I'm at the hospital. In Soren's office. Stuff's happened. If you want to hang out or whatever...I can't leave until Soren gets back.>> She leaves it at that. It may be partially untrue but she distinctly remembers Soren telling her to not leave his office. So she won't. At least not yet. 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "You might want to lie still... and put the pistols away. I have a feeling I don't want to know what happened here," Navi says to Ellari as she finishes her healing and stands, then moves to Mondrian's side and repeats the process. "Already on her, Doctor. Just help make sure nobody starts shooting at anyone, please?" 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' The Arkanians had been piloting the vessel, the clone remembers vaguely. They'd come out over a massive valley with fog covering it - Cayde will recognize it from the bird's memories. The Arkanians, unaware that he's somewhat awake, keep flying the vessel. The clone sits up, and peers discreetly out of one of the viewports, and catches sight of the trash chute opening from a distance. The memory then shifts focus to notice a small winged creature flying out of the chute... that must have been the bird. The memory then fades as vessel starts heading north towards Kublop. No response. Well, that definitely doesn't bode well for Ellari. "You should stay here and recuperate," the doctor advises Ellari. "Navi may have healed you, but you should rest up. Your body is still likely stressed from the trauma of the wound." <Ok> the Tholothian man replies. <I'll come find you soon, I promise. Is everything alright?> The doctor nods at Navi's instruction, and removes the kolto patch when Navi comes over to heal her. Once Navi finished, Mondrian's eyes fly open. "Navi!" She cries. "Are you alright? There was an intrusion--" 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "I'm fine, Mondrian. You, on the other hand, have a brand-new hole in you that I've just finished closing up, so I'd lie still and contemplate breathing normally, were I you," Navi replies to Mondrian. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     When Jasper looks out the window, Cayde tries to determine where the vessel had come out of in relation to that chute as the vehicle is rising up away from the ground. Unless he can pinpoint its location to some degree, this would have been a rather useless exercise... 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     Ellari grumbles when Kass, as expected, doesn't answer. She sighs and nods at his suggestion. "Fine. Are officers around here normally so quick to shoot first and ask questions later?" 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha looks at the message for a heartbeat or two before replying. <<No. But we'll just talk when you get here if you have time.>> Then she just curls up in the very comfy chair and rests her head on the back, closing her eyes. She might be in nap mode when Crane finds her. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "Oh," Mondrian, says, looking down at the now gaping hole in her shirt where the laser blast had struck her. There's a bit of indecency there, as the shot had struck her chest almost dead on. She blushes and covers the hole, embarrassed. "I was worried about you," she tells Navi, "The Mandalorians --" Then she seems to remember why and how she'd gotten shot and turns her gaze quickly over to Ellari. "You! What are you doing here!" There's a brief glimpse there, of a gate sliding shut behind them. It doesn't look too far from the chute, just directly east of it, but it's sort of hard to tell. The memory is fuzzy. The doctor's expression hardens. "Mandalorians aren't exactly on friendly terms with the Republic," he says, "and you are on Republic soil. That being said, we're not arresting you, you're now my patient and Navi will be the supervising officer regarding what happens to you next. However, you're not excused from explaining what you're doing here, sneaking in a back door." <Aw, sorry babe. I'll have time, don't worry> he replies. As he'd specified prior, 'Crane' arrives at the hospital, and makes a beeline for where Navi is. When he arrives, he assesses the situation quietly before tapping Navi on the shoulder gently. "Are you free for a walk in the gardens?" he asks quietly. Navi will be able to read his gaze. There's something important he wants to tell her. 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "If you reach for your weapon, you'll uncover that hole, and probably make half this room fall in love with you," Navi warns Mondrian softly. "The Mandalorian lady has a similar problem, I think. So both of you just lie quiet for a while, okay?" She looks to the Mandalorians. "I am curious as to what you're all doing here. I'm assuming your reasons were benign, but walking into a Republic hospital outside of visiting hours, especially when you're armed to the earrings and mustache-tips, is bound to result in awkward questions." She looks to 'Crane'. "It might have to wait a few minutes. I'm busy trying to keep a prior firefight from going off again." 

:'''{{#var:418|Jorn (418)}} has posed:''' "Weapons are part of our religion. To us, weapons are not arms. They are extension of faith. Similar to a Jedi with a lightsaber," Jorn says from his spot in the group as if to fend off why they're all so "armed." To them, it's just being faithful. 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     Ellari was about to say exactly what Jorn just said, but he beat her to the punch so she just nods. "What he said." she adds. "If the Jedi are allowed in with their lightsabers, why not us with blasters? Lightsaber are far more dangerous anyway." However, she doesn't elaborate on the reason for their presence, either.     Instead, she starts trying to contact Volken. << Kass ran off again. What other 'leads' were you talking about before? >> 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde frowns, trying to focus hard on that opening as the vessel flies away. Well, it didn't -look- like it was that far from the chute they'd seen. At least he knows what the gate looks like, but he wishes there was some quantifiable way to track its location. Like a signal from a beacon or comms array.     He finally withdraws, determining that this was probably the best Jasper can offer. 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' There's a sudden and loud *BOOM* followed by the warping and fracturing of the outside facing wall as it pushes inward from the impact fo some incredibly powerful and gigantic force -- and then *BOOOM* The wall to the room bursts inward in a plume of debris and dust. The floor shaking and the rest of the walls trembling as the large hole is revealed. Within the hole teh mammoth and unmistakable silohette of Volken of House Mons can be seen, looming into view., his gigantic repeater blasters slung over one bared shoulder and his other immense arm crackling flexed like a mountain range beneath his skin. Energy from his Shock-Knuckle Dusters crackling over his limbs as he looms there. Helmeted yet somehow glowring despite the lack of visible sight of his expression. He doesn't say anything immediately, instead taking a quick stock of the situation before rumbling in Man'doa: <<Pack your bags! We're checking out!>> 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Mondrian blushes even more furiously, but doesn't protest, and doesn't try to attack Ellari, so that's good, at least. The doctor takes a step back and lets Navi take over with a nod, backgrounding himself with 'Crane', who also nods politely and steps away. Jasper looks to Rykard and Cayde. "Well? Was I helpful?" he asks, clearly searching for validation. "Can you get me offworld now?" Meanwhile, Zetha will be interrupted while she lies curled up in a chair waiting for the doctor to return by the door suddenly opening. A tall, handsome stranger clad in beskar, with shiny, caf colored corkscrew curls and sapphire blue eyes slips in. It's clear he's trying to hide from someone. Or maybe multiple someones. He turns to her, surprised. "Zetha?" She'll immediately recognize his voice. Jasper, the Mandalorian she'd met (kissed, even!) behind the gravball club. As soon as Volken rolls up, knocking in the wall with guns blazing, Mondrian forgets about what Navi had just said and immediately reaches for her gun in an attempt to attack Volken! 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Well if the wall being busted down didn't wake up Zetha, the sudden appearance of someone in the same room as her surely does. She's up and taking a step back before her eyes narrow. "Jasper? What are you doing here?" Her eyes dart to the door - where she won't be able to run out of without passing him. Though she's not quite at flight mode just yet, she sure as anything is going to keep escape routes in mind. Though she also tries to hit something on her commlink to call either Soren or Crane - she's pressing by memory only. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde nods to the clone. [Some help yes] he signs, then looks to his master. [They used a gate...east of waste egress] he tells Rykard. The padawan leaves the answer of whether they can help him offworld or not to the elder Jedi. 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     Well, Ellari had been waiting for a response from Volken on the comms, when he simply bursts into the room. -Literally-. She rolls her eyes. "You know, there are things called doors." she remarks dryly to him. "And are you going to explain yourself or what? -Where- are we going and why? Have you located the baron?" 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' As Volken makes his entrance and Mondrian forgets all about not having half of the front of her uniform jacket and shirt anymore, Navi lunges in to save the woman's modesty and to keep her from hitting Volk... by half-tackling her and hugging her, almost pinning her pistol arm. "I hope you realize you just flashed the room again, precious," she whispers to Mondrian. Looking back toward Volk and the other Mandos, she says, "You always did know how to make an entrance. But people keep forgetting to tell me why they're here, and I'd like to get that oversight mended, preferably now." 

:'''{{#var:418|Jorn (418)}} has posed:''' Jorn pulls out his weapon and points it at Mondrian. "Probably shouldn't do that," he says firmly. "Lots of things can go wrong and he's built like a plasteel factory. You might need something bigger just for him to feel it," he warns Mondrian. And he doesn't react to Volken's sudden arrival. This is just the man's MO. Jorn is a little used to it by now. 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' The blaster shot actually scores past Volkens' massive shoulder,, searing and scarring the exposed flesh. True to Jorn's word, the behemothdoesn't seem tor feel it and instead turns his attention towards his attacker and begins taking heavy steps forward that seem to shake the room as he starts bearing down on his attacker. He seems to thik better of using a gigantic repeater cannon in the middle of a hospital but the crackle of energy and the clenching of his fist reveals his actual intentions. It's the ..utter calmness of Ellari and Jor that seem to pull his attention. She's not getting up to leave and she's responding to him in Basic--whuh? What kind of hospital rescue is this... <> he snaps in Man'doa, <<Then the last thing I heard was you getting shot and dropped to the ground! So..I cam to rescue you two! No! I haven't found him but I'm going after Zealot! That's our lead.>> He then switches back to Basic: "Alright.. So who shot who first?" He looms over both Navi and Mondrian but he visibly seems to restrain himself as if taking note of the shield Navi is providing but neither does he back off. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Rykard's brows raise. "Yes, I saw, young padawan. Well done. This was helpful." He then tells the clone, "Offworld, yes. Mandalore... well." There's a horrible crashing sound as Volken's bellowing and barreling disrupts the peace and quiet. "I don't know about that." He turns to Cayde. "We should investigate...it's about time we joined the other co-deputy." "Zetha, Zetha dearest," the charismatic Mandalorian says shortly after the sound of Volken breaking a wall or maybe two assaults their ears. "Don't worry about that I promise I'll explain everything later," he says. He reaches for her hand, flashing a charming smile. "Look, what I really need from you right now is a massive favor. A distraction, to be more precise. No one can know I'm here, especially not the other Mandalorians or the Jedi. There's someone here I need to visit very urgently. It's upstairs, in the trauma unit. Listen, in return, I'll see what I can do about giving you view access to some experiments that I've witnessed but not worked on. I have clandestine associates who have privately been conducting research that could be a massive breakthrough in modern medicine. It could save lives. Surely you'd be interested in seeing it first hand?" Mondrian blushes again, and her shot goes astray, just barely scraping Volken. The behemoth doesn't seem to notice. "G-Get off of me!" she cries, trying to wiggle out of Navi's grasp. "He's just caused thousands of credits worth of property damage to the Republic...!" When Jorn pulls out his weapon and aims it at Mondrian, the doctor gets up and reaches over, trying to push the hand with the weapon down. "Please, for the love of light, stop!" he says. "This is a hospital, for kriff's sake. Answer the co-deputy's question, and then we can all go about our business peaceably!" Before anyone can answer Volken, 'Crane' suddenly steps forward. Volken may recognize him - from a very long time ago, on Jedha, the time he'd been there when the Temple of the Kyber had been raided. This young Tholothian man had been there, notable for his extraordinary good looks and unforgettable indigo eyes. He smiles broadly at the Mandalorian, perhaps disarmingly. "Volken of Mons," he says, "how good it is to see you again! The Force has a way of bringing good souls together again, does it not? I must thank you again personally and on behalf of the other Disciples for your service to the Temple. We are eternally grateful and indebted." He bows politely. "How is it then, that you've ended up here? Perhaps you could tell me over... a drink?" 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "Mondrian, did they teach you a thing called 'tactical awareness' in the academy?" Navi asks the squirming officer. "Putting aside the issue that your round twin girls are trying to come out to play because you have a gigantic hole where the top half of your uniform should be, there's one of you and not less than four Mandalorians... eight Mandalorians, if we were to go by mass alone. All of which means you want me to stay right here. Just calm down and focus on getting your breath back. By the way, which of you shot first? Or was it more of a simultaneous thing?" And then 'Crane' enters, and Navi can't help but stare. "Now I've seen almost everything," she murmurs. She doesn't miss the Doctor trying to push Jorn's pistol down, though. "Be careful, Doctor. It's been an eventful day already..." And just then her comlink earbud chimes softly. Touching a button on the earbud, Navi asks, "Yes? What is it?" 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde nods and follows Rykard toward the sound of the disturbance, finding Volken and the other Mandalorians, and Mondrian and....Amarik there. What was he doing here? But there is also another presence nearby. Not the clone, but the host.     He frowns and turns, heading toward the office wing. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "Don't..." Zetha begins, looking to the hand that reaches for her own and then that smile. She steps back once more. "Don't Zetha Dearest me, Jasper. For kriff's sake..." She recgonizes many voices beyond the door to Soren's office and that causes her to shake her head. "Are you kidding me right now? Do you KNOW who all is out there? Nevermind the hospital staff and the Jedi... the Big Scary Mandalorian is out there...and why would YOU need to hide from THEM anyway? Aren't you all on the same team or something?" His promises are getting greater, but so are his asks, and Zetha looks towards the door once more. This may not go the way Jasper wants or Zetha needs. There's a breath. A heartbeat. And then Zetha's shoulders drop and she shakes her head. "I mean, I suppose I -could- actually make a distraction...but you certainly won't like it..." Then she runs for the door, small office, tight space...she just hopes she can make it to at least getting the door open and shouting "HELP!" Sorry Navi... 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     Ellari stares at Volken for a moment, then look to Jorn, then back to Volken again. "I don't need -rescuing-." she says in Mando'a. "But fine. Let's go." She starts to leave out the hole Volken made, although she stumbles a bit. 

:'''{{#var:418|Jorn (418)}} has posed:''' Jorn is tempted to pull out the other blaster with his free hand, but everything seems to be in motion. He'll giv a nod to his friends. Well, fellow mando. "I was just making sure people held cooler heads," he says knowing Ellari can handle themselves. That didn't mean calmer minds couldn't prevail. 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' Volken inclines his head slighlty, looking down at Mondrian and Navi. Maybe he's thinking. Maybe he's trying to sneak a peek! Helmets are good for ambiguity. Ellari's stumble catches his attention, however and he shakes his head mildly but doesn't move to help her.. He nods his head towards Jorn and then finally turns his attention to Crane. "Oh yeah..." he rumbles, as his memory returns to him on the matter. "Well ..look at you. Eeh.. " He makes a shoulder shrug, rolling the muscle to indicate the direction of the hoe he made. "Not quite the best time to start talking about drinks but sure. Later." Volken look sover the room once again and then says, "We're taking the clone also. -No more interference-. You help us or you stay out of the way. THis is Mandalorian business. He's a clone of one of our nobles who is -also- a fugitive. You don't get to keep him and keep poking at his mind and then not sharing what you've learned. Where is he? I don't give a damn what your Republic laws or your Jedi Council thinks. He's Mandalorian--sort of. We came here for training and -that- hasn't happened so I'm taking charge now. Objections? I hope so..." 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "Of course I did!" Mondrian probably finally manages to free herself of Navi. Her face is cherry red, perhaps from anger, perhaps in embarrassment. "Will everyone just stop getting their limbs twisted into a bunch over me?! I'm a cop, dammit. Was even lead detective for a year or so. I can kriffing take care of myself. I don't need anyone fawning over me like I'm some kind of damsel in distress!" She reaches for her weapon again, but finds it's still overheated. She grumbles and tosses it aside angrily, and starts storming off. Rykard frowns when Cayde suddenly just stops, turns around, and starts walking away. <... Cayde?> But he doesn't stop heading towards where the Mandalorians and Navi are. "I believe in you," Jasper says smoothly and perhaps very convincingly. "You could -- " But then she starts yelling for help. She's right, he didn't like it, but he's going to take advantage of it nonetheless. Once she slips out and into the hallway, he quickly pushes past her and starts heading for the trauma unit in the upper level. The doctor sighs in exasperation. "Cooler heads? You're the one holding up a weapon inside a damned hospital..." He pinches the bridge of his nose. "Wait!" 'Crane' says, suddenly reaching out to touch Volken on the shoulder gently. "Taking a civilian hostage? Volken of Mons, this isn't like you," he says, shaking his head. "All the Disciples back at the Temple, they think of you as a hero. Even the younglings are told your story, that fateful day you helped us at the Temple. What would they think if they knew you were doing this now?" 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha speaks quick, not knowing it was Navi she called, but thankful it was Navi who answered. "He's here. He ran up into the trauma unit. Something about needing to see someone...if you're quick..." Then she turns and actually heads after Jasper thinking maybe if she can stall him then people can catch up. Maybe catching him would put an end to all of this quicker. Or...something quicker anyway. Unsure of how far behind him she is, she'll at least try to keep him in her sights as she follows. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     <The baron is here> Cayde answers his master telepathically, and quickens his pace toward the trauma unit where he'd just come from. He notices Zetha also heading that way as they are both after Caine, and he meets her gaze with a knowing look. Had she managed to convince him to let her into the lab? Maybe then, hunting through the gorge without exact coordinates wouldn't be necessary. That would be much preferable. 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "At this point it's hard to care much about that clone guy, except for getting some well-earned payback," Navi replies to Volk, standing and helping Mondrian to her feet, then shrugging off her jacket and draping it around Mondrian's front. "And technically, I did provide a little in the way of lessons to your friend, but have not had time for more. I wasn't even supposed to be the teacher." Zetha's cries for help come through about them, and she looks to Volk and the Doctor and hurries toward the office. 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     "Who said anything about a hostage?" Ellari argues with Crane accuses them of taking hostages. "This is -very much- Mandalorian business." she nods, emphasizing Volken's point. "I don't know why Republic law enforcement is insisting on meddling in it. It's not as if this is Coruscant or anything." she grumbles, glaring at Mondrian.     Her glare is then turned toward 'Crane'. "And what business is this of yours, as well?! Volken, is this a friend of yours?" 

:'''{{#var:418|Jorn (418)}} has posed:''' "I did not draw first," Jorn is quick to point out to the Doctor. That they were peaceful until things went sidewise with the others. How the shooting began against Volken. Everything else. 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' "Enoguh with yoru bellyaching. Obviously if I wanted to really damage the hospital and it's patients I could have done it. Twice over by now. Bombs. Shooting from outside. Sitting on the roof.." These words are directed towards the doctor. Volken's head turning ever so slightly in that direction as the man continues berating Jorn and the huge Mandalorian comes to the aid of the other Mando verbally. The words of Crane do seem to settle something in him though and the giant -slighlty- relaxes. Slightly. "Nobody is taking anyone hostage." he says, confirming Ellari's words. "But I -am- taking charge...." His head turns slighlty towards Navi "...And I'm not blamin' you...." His words are softer, mildly restrained there but then his tone hardens again and his deep voice rumbles. "But I'm not intersted in running in circles anymore. The clone comes with us. No deals and I want all information on The Marauders that you have." He pauses and then adds. "Please." 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Thankfully for Zetha, Jasper remains unaware that she's following him. He heads straight for the lift and continues on his way towards the trauma unit... The doctor nods at Navi as she hurries off towards the sound of Zetha's cries for help, his expression weary. Then he turns to Volken, his gaze hardening. "You -wouldn't-," he says, "you claim honor is a pillar of your culture--!" When Ellari reprimands him, 'Crane' looks frightened. "I don't know anything! I'm just a Disciple of the Whill. Not even a Guardian. My daily duties including cleaning and care of the plants at the convent here. All I know is that if anything of suspicious interest happens, its in the Gorge." He takes a step back, and hangs his head. When Volken says the clone is going with them, 'Crane' gives Volken a sad, wide-eyed look, the kind an akk pup whose tail had just been crushed gives. "And if the clone doesn't want to go?" His indigo eyes exude child like disappointment and sadness. <Very well> Rykard replies. <Keep me updated, and don't let him take the clone against his will> He then arrives on the scene where Volken, Ellari, Jorn and everyone else is. "Then he will not be going with them," Rykard announces firmly. "No one is forcing anyone to do anything against their will, unless they've committed a galactic crime or offense. But about the Marauders. We will tell you what we know, but it will have to be a peaceable talk. My padawan, and Navi - the co deputies. They will know the most." 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' There's sheer relief on Zetha's face as she spots Cayde coming towards her. She actually stops, because where else is Jasper going to go after the trauma ward? She looks a Cayde and then back towards the offices and such. <Where is everyone?> She signs to him, since signing is quiet. That's followed with <I'm sorry.> Cause, she didn't really mean to cause any trouble but the man just waltzed into Soren's office! "We need to stall him. Or just catch him. Tie him to a bed or something..." This she says outloud and with a smirk. 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' "-BZZYT- Wrong." says Volken to Rykard. "He barely knows what he wants and he's the key to figuring out this mess. He's coming to Mandalore unless -we- Mandalorians agree, with him, that it's not for the best. Not you. Us. One. Two. Three--and I guess Er'gi. And Kass maybe. As I said. No deals. You've all called the shots with him enough and w'e're still stuck in the same place not to mention you thinking you have any right to tell us what to do in regards to our own internal affairs." Volken's eyes narrow slightly, however as 'Crane' speaks up. "You know a lot about what goes on in the ravine?" Suspicion is clear in his tone now, made all the worse by the way the guy is looking at him. "....Stop looking like that." He then nods his head towards Ellari, "..Answer her." 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     "You haven't answered the question of why this is any of your concern." Ellari points out to 'Crane'. "You just randomly showed up here and started asking questions. Unless...you have some -other- agendas we aren't aware of?" she asks, a brow going up in suspicion. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     A nod is given toward Zetha at her suggestions. [Why sorry...] Cayde asks, looking a little confused.     Then, he follows up with: [Did he say you can go to the lab] 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "You are on Republic soil," The elder Ikkrukki thunders. Then, more quietly, he says, "We've spoken to him," Rykard reiterates firmly. "What he wants is to be free. To not be treated as property by the baron, or coerced into going places and doing things he never agreed to by a group of strangers. You may not have known, but he bears no loyalty to the baron. He wishes to go to Mandalore, but of his own accord and to be given the freedom to do as he pleases once there. He didn't choose this, and were you in his shoes, born into a lab and treated like a womp rat and forced to pledge loyalty to a man who sees him as a toy for science, you would -also- resist. Perhaps if you approach him more diplomatically, he will be more agreeable to help you in your cause." 'Crane's' expression becomes even more frightened. "No, I don't!" he says, "I just know the rumors that circulate Kublop, that's all. It's strange, dangerous, and somewhere down there, is the marauder base. That's what the townsfolk say." He disobeys Volken when he tells him to stop looking like that. In fact, his crushed look becomes even more grieved. "... I mean, you're right. It's not my business. I don't know anything about the clone, except that he's here in the hospital, and that must mean he's injured. Then you came here and wanted to take him away. As a Disciple of the Whill, I care about the life and freedom of all sentient beings. Especially those who seem to have come from a place of suffering. But who am I to try to ask you to do anything? I'm just a Disciple." He turns away to leave, shoulders drooping. Eventually, Cayde and Zetha will probably reach the room where the clone is. Well, was. When they arrive, they'll find he's no longer on the berth. But there's a note there left on the datapad there. And the baron? He seems to have vacated the premises as well. However, it does look like he didn't reach the clone in time, thankfully. 
}}

File:Sketch1754028504420.png

2026-01-23T03:04:48Z

Andromeda: Andromeda uploaded a new version of File:Sketch1754028504420.png

Police Work

2025-12-29T06:48:06Z

Andromeda:

{{Log Header
|Date of Scene=2025-11-23
|Cast of Characters=159, 261, 143, 296, 321, 444, 418
|pretty=yes
|Location=Kublop Springs - Tenoo - Outer Rim
}}
{{Poses
|Poses=:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' A few weeks have passed since those from the colony had interacted with the Mandalorians, having failed at negotiating a resolution that would suit both the doctor's needs and what the Mandalorians would have preferred. Afterward, it had been decided that leaving them alone for the time being would be for the best, while the doctor tended to other more urgent medical needs within the colony (winter was approaching, seasonal sickness appeared to be affecting many of the colonists) and the Republic agent from the CSF was in transit from Coruscant. Meanwhile, they'd continued searching for 'Jasper's' hideout, however, without much luck. However, just last night, the female CSF forensic analyst, Maren Mondrian had arrived and a course of action had been decided upon. With Cayde and perhaps Navi's assistance (if she decided to lend it), they would host a private conversation with the supposed clone remotely using telepathy. The group would be on the tram approaching the Kublop Springs spaceport, currently, but neither Thaarin or the doctor would have made it clear yet whether the Mandalorians were going to be informed about this... interrogation session. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Meanwhile, aboard the Amber Clad, Kasseady is making it quite known to everyone his distaste for the whole situation and the need to leave the spaceport to start searching for Caine on their own. "I don't like it here," he says vehemently. "We're fowl in open water, surrounded by our sworn enemies. I don't trust that boy, Volken. And you don't have to like me, but you must ask yourself, why are you associating with a child sorcerer who reads minds but cannot control his abilities??" 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "We should tell the Mandalorians what we're doing," Navi says firmly. "Given the way subjects of telepathic conversations tend to react and behave, it will likely be clear that /something/ is happening, and with Cayde's reputation with telepathy in the mix, I have no doubt they will realize just what it is. Going behind their backs is likely to be terribly damaging to our relations with them, and those aren't that good as it is." 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde is beginning to get rather frustrated with this business of trying to find the Arkanians' lab. Seriously, Aklyrr isn't even large enough to be considered a town, how hard could it be to find? Honestly, he is on the verge of just, going door to door of the entire place for...however long it takes.     He doesn't comment on Navi's suggestion, his gaze directed out the window of the tram as it approaches the station. 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     Ellari can't help but scoff loudly at Kasseady's uneasiness. So dramatic. "'Surrounded'? There's what, four of them? Among a bunch of untrained simpletons." But then he starts going on more specifically about the Foundling boy with mind powers. "Ohh, I see. It's the foundling you're afraid of, is it? Never imagined I'd see the day a Von'egel would become so terrified of a child." she remarks, smirking. 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' "because I'm such a nice guy full of sparkles ad star-beams." responds Volken to Kassady's complaints without even looking over to him. He quiets to let Ellari tear into Kassady for a bit. Always a treat to listen to that, but he otherwise busies himself by cleaning his knuckle dusters. Once Ellari finishes he rumbles, "We're far from Mandalore and might very well need all th'help we can get if they come stomping in looking for the Saber. The boy's frustrating but his companion, Navi, can handle him and so can I. If you got a better idea.....well I would say I'm all ears but yer great ideas have landed you in this situation in the first place so maybe just be quiet for now nad wait until you can actually help." 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Thaarin's eyes narrow a bit at Navi, but he doesn't seem angry. "I wasn't aware we were actively trying to forge a genuine allyship with them," he says. "and I'm sorry, but I must disagree. The Mandalorians are not to be trusted. They came here with the intent of using Cayde for their own political advancement and have done nothing other than cause trouble since they've arrived. We should not let ourselves become intimidated by them, or what they will threaten to do to us. From what I've observed, Ellari is the northern most point of their supposed trifecta of power and Jorn and Volken are just dejarik pieces." As for the doctor, he doesn't say anything. He seems to be caught in the middle, and clearly not having made up his mind about the matter yet. He glances to Navi, then to Thaarin, then to Cayde. "Well, why don't we let Cayde make the executive decision? He's known Volken for the longest amount of time, I think, and he's the former Marshal's Padawan." "Your ego is unbecoming," Kasseady snarls, pointing an accusing finger at Ellari. "Even I know that mind tricks, coming from a child, are the most dangerous kind. Besides, the Republic could call RDC here in an instant if they wanted to. Plus, there's a Jedi outpost on Elphrona, barely a single hyperjump away." "-You-?? And that, what, 18 year old girl?? You fools!" he scoffs. "As if. I read the news here, unlike you di'kut. The boy disappeared, and upon finally discovering him three days later, he had reduced a family of five? Six? To blubbering messes. Yes. It would appear, that both of you have him perfectly handled." While Cayde may be ruminating on a response, the doctor sends a message to Zetha. <I'm heading up to Kublop with several others and will be there in a little bit. There's someone here I'd like you to meet, someone from Coruscant that might be able to help you flag down Jasper a bit easier. See you at the spaceport soon?> 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "I'm sorry, Thaarin, but I must completely disagree with you. I know some of them, and have worked with Volken in the past. You've barely met them," Navi says. "Volken has more influence than you realize, and he is probably the most ethical of them, even if his ethics may seem crude to more civilized people. He can absolutely be trusted to do what he says, whether it's holding your hand to help you across a busy street or putting a blasterbolt between your eyes. If you deal squarely with him, he will absolutely do the same with you. But if you go behind his back, all bets are off. The only thing that can be relied upon is that you will not like how it ends." "And politics have nothing to do with it; it's basic ethics. The more they trust us, the less likely they are to wander off on their own and cause trouble." "Besides, the clone will hardly sit still and quiet once someone makes telepathic contact with him... not if what I've seen of his prior behavior is any indication. He will probably jump up, pace, maybe jump around, and talk, a lot, to empty air. There also might be some screaming involved. Volken has seen Cayde's handiwork, and he'll know what's happening, and who is behind it." 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha is at the junkyard, having no idea who is arguing what where because she's decidedly staying somewhat out of the picture for the moment. She's been poking around here and there asking about 'Jasper' in various establishments that she feels comfortable asking about him in. Descriptive, but not name dropping. Have you seen a Mando wearing all black and looking shady as all get out? No? Cool. In the interim? She's working on the ship. Being careful to not wholly mess with the little spot that's been put together for when Cayde needs a place to lay his turmoil'd head. When the message from the doctor comes through, she'll send a quick reply. <Alright. I'm currently at the junkyard. Do you want me to meet you anywhere particular?> 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde continues to stare out the window, that is until the tram starts to slow to a stop as it nears the station. At that point, he gets up and starts to disembark. If he'd heard any of the things said about him, he hasn't reacted. 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     Oh, how much Ellari wants to just shoot Kass in the face right now. But they need him--alive, if they want to find Caine. "Such dramatic drivel." she answers scathingly. "If the consequences had been more permanent than a day, I am sure we would have heard about it. And I'm sure the boy wouldn't be -here- any more."     "And Volken has a point. If anyone else does come here looking for the Darksaber, we would be wise to accept them as allies in such a conflict. What do you know of the Jedi, anyway?" she challenges. "Have you ever actually gotten to -know- any of them, as Volken has?" 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' "The massive Mando slowly places his knuckle dusters back on. He clienches his fist, triggering them, and a spark of electricty cracks ou loudly, briefly wrapping aorund his enormous hand, just as Kassady finishes. An act of intimidation? Well maybe. But he makes it look good especially as he's not even looking his way at first and then simply pointing a big finger at him. "You talk to much." He finally lifts his hand in that direction and then points a sausage dwarfing finger at the noble mando. "Say something useful or be quiet." He then, finally, cuts his gaze towards Ellari, "Don't underestimate the boy. A foundling he may be but also one that can read minds and is trained to use a weapon that can cut anything but beskar in half. Not thinking he can be dangerous is the worst move. " He's finally had enough and he rises to start to make his way back towards where ever Er'gi is hiding, adding, "The -point- is that while we can work with them all we should. Especialy as we have mutual problems. Like this clone." 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' The tall blue man folds his arms. "You haven't won me over, Deputy. I'm going to assume the time you worked with him was back -before- Ellari was pulling all the strings. You say that now, but I'm 90 percent certain that when push comes to shove, he'll do what's good for himself and put everyone and everything else aside. You already saw it in play, when Cayde refused to sell the cortosis to him. If he really cared about Cayde, he wouldn't have made such an unhinged fuss about it. Which in turn was what caused Cayde having run off and lost control of his abilities, which caused harm to several civilians who had no involvement in the crisis at all. It's their fault, really. Who else could be blamed in that situation?" When the tram slows to a stop, he gets up and exits."Besides, what are you going to do if they don't want Cayde or you using your abilities on the clone? If they don't want us to, they're going to react poorly to us even asking, so in that situation, the outcome would be the same as if we'd just not told them at all." Then he gets up. "I'm going to provide a diversion," he says, and then exits the tram ahead of Navi. The doctor sighs, and follows Cayde, reaching out to grab the young padawan by the arm. "Cayde, it's your decision. Do we tell the Mandalorians we're coming, or not?" Zetha won't receive a response from the doctor, but she'll probably spot him from a distance as the tram from Aklyrr Bend pulls up. It's hard to miss, as a chime that's heard all around the spaceport goes off whenever the tram arrives. "Shut up," Kasseady hisses at Ellari, "You don't know what you're talking about--" The twin baron leans away from Volken, brows furrowed angrily, backing away. But when Volken says not to underestimate Cayde, he splutters. "See!? Even Volken agrees!" Er'gi is in a sour mood, but Volken will be able to approach him, at least. "Tell me good news, vod. We've been here for weeks and still, no sign of the other baron...! Haar'chaak!" 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde stops and looks over at Soren, a brow going up. Wait, why was it only his decision? Had they all agreed on it already?     [...me] he asks, looking uncertain. 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     "I didn't say he couldn't be dangerous. Of course he can, any Jedi can." Ellari replies. "But has he actually attacked any of you? Injured any of you? Shown any sort of aggressive or hostile behavior whatsoever?" she pauses, as if waiting for a response. "No?"     "But yes, I agree that we should work with them as long as it is possible, while interests happen to align." 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' The tram arriving means the doctor is likely arriving as well. So Zetha decides, without receiving a message back, that she should make her way to the tram station to greet him and his guest upon arrival. Or as close to their arrival as she manages once she's nearing the tram station. Splotched with grease that's streaked from sweat and wearing a tank top, jacket tied around her waist and her trusty cargo pants. Which have seen some better days, for sure. 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "I didn't really expect to, Thaarin. You may be the smartest person in the room most of the time, but there are definitely exceptions," Navi replies. "I also don't agree with your assessment of the beskar situation, either. Ever since you started dating half the colony, you've gotten more and more erratic. Especially when it comes to ethical judgements." "And no, I'm /not/ jealous. No offense, but you're not my type. But it hurts me deeply to watch a friend coming apart." 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' "A person can be dangerous without intending harm or being as direct as a drunken Mandalorian in Sundari. He's made certain choices that have led to problems and has abilities he can't always control. That's what you have to watch for." Volken taps his forhead as he speaks, addressing Ellari first, "So be on your guard and be watchful. Beyond that we can count on the girl, Navi, to help direct him and him to not act dishonorably." He gives Kass a final glare and then looks at Er'gi. And just shrugs. "Well you might be able to punch or shoot something soon so that should help!" 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Thaarin doesn't dignify Navi with an answer. He's heading straight for the Amber Clad, and is pinging Ellari, signaling his arrival and inviting her to drinks. He also lets her know that all the others are also welcome to join. "Yes," The doctor says. "Navi and Thaarin ... are having a conflict of interest," he says, glancing over at Thaarin as he leaves. "And I'm not going to be the one to decide, so I think the decision should fall to you." He turns to Navi. "If Cayde decides not to tell the Mandalorians, you don't have to participate. Zetha should be here shortly..." And just as the doctor has mentioned Zetha, the young Twi'lek appears. "Zetha," he greets warmly, his eyes lighting up just a little. "There's someone here I want you to meet," he adds. "She's going to be a tremendous help." He motions to a young blonde woman wearing cargo pants and tight fitting short sleeved crop, who's just getting off the tram. "This is Maren Mondrian," he says, "Forensic analyst with the CSF." The woman nods at Zetha and extends a hand. "Nice to meet you. You must be Zetha." Er'gi's mood doesn't seem to lift, unfortunately. "But is it going to be productive..." 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde frowns pensively. But if the two of them didn't agree, who could stop the one who wanted to tell them? [But they will tell anyway] he points out. 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     This seems to draw some concern from Ellari, actually. She frowns. "What do you mean, vod?" she asks. "What problems?"     Then her commlink goes off, and she checks the messages from Thaarin. "Thaarin has invited us to drinks. Would you care to join him?" 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' "What is this? You're like my kid brother." respons Volken to Er'gi's sourness. "Hitting people is -always- productive." At Ellari's comments, he turns and then says towards Er'gi. "You see? You can hit him if you want." He then turns back to Ellari, "The boy's telepathic gifts are strong. Too strong for his age, I wager. He loses focus. Loses awareness of where he is. Is slow to share what he knows with others. And, from what I understand, is not entirely gentle with his abilities. A blunt hammer when the skill of a surgeon is required. Yet he has strong convictions. His peers. Their code. They mean a lot. If his mind is set on an action it's hard to get him to divert and adjust if it's counter to what he's been taught, but if he is -guided-.... If there's trust.." Volken shrugs at that, as if saying the rest is obvious. "Let's go then." 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "Hey Doctor Cassias..." Zetha offers and then she smiles over at the woman who she is introduced to. As that hand is offered, Zetha takes it to shake semi-firmly. "Yeah, that's me. It's nice to meet you also." She offers and she's going to ignore whatever tension seems to be in the air at this time, especially since as she was arriving Thaarin had left. So she gives a smile to both Navi and Cayde. "Hey you two, good to see you both again." 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' Navi watches Thaarin go, regretfully. "Conflict of ethics is more accurate, Doctor," she says, before glancing to Cayde. "You know where I stand on this. But you also need to ask yourself what Volken would say if he finds out... and we both know he /will/ find out. What we want to do isn't something that will be quiet or subtle." "If you decide to say nothing, I won't tell them. But I also won't be involved with the interrogation. And no, I'm not trying to guilt you into the choice I prefer. I just want you to know what you're getting into." She smiles at Zetha, although it is a bit restrained. "Hello again, Zetha. I may say the same of you." 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "Alright, that seems decided then," the doctor says, "we can tell them --" he glances at Thaarin who's still making a beeline for the Amber Clad. He arches a brow. "If they're still there when we arrive to tell them." He sighs, looking somewhat defeated. Maren nods at Zetha. She seems all business, no play. "The doctor here said I could help you flag down a certain person of interest," she says. "Care to debrief me?" The doctor then turns to Navi. "You're free to stay here and help with the interrogation if it happens," he says, "or, you can help Zetha and Mondrian roam the town to find out the best place to draw 'Jasper's' attention." Er'gi shrugs. "I'm tired of hitting brick walls that don't collapse, vod," he says to Volken. "But what's this talk of drinks? Perhaps that will help my mood..." He gets up to follow Volken when he says they should go. 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' "Er'gi..." Volken switches to pure Man'doa now and reaches forward and down to rest his massive hands onto Er'gi's shouldrs to steady him for a moment and pause him. "Listen to yourself, vod. You arrived here to get the cortosis. You uncovered the presence of Caine in the process of doign so -and- bore witness to him being outed as a clone. Something nobody else could have known. You were part of thos events. Yes you lost the cortosis in the process but we gained greater knowlege. We learned that some sort of grave conspiracy is happening. Someone is cloning our nobles. -That- isn't a brick wall vod. That's a step onto a long road that's leading to something very dire and you're first in line to witness it." So it's not -exactly- upbeat but his point should be clear. "A moment of set back here and there isn't the end in all of this. Believe me, -I- am more impatient than -you- .. remember?" Voken arcs an eyebrow at Er'gi as if to ask 'who do you think you're speaking with here. He's, supposedly, the wild berserker of the bunch. "C'mon.." he rumbles while turning and grabbing his helmet to leave the ship. Could be time for some berserking. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde listens to Navi's promises, but he isn't sure he can be fully confident in her words. So he doesn't stop Soren when the doctor seems to accept the decision to tell them anyway. 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     "Heh, I would be inclined to agree, whether with fists or with blaster bolts." Ellari adds.     Her lips press into a thin line at Volken's explanation. "Hmph. I see. Well, in that case it is even more important that we maintain a productive and mutually beneficial relationship with them as much as possible."     With that, she replies to Thaarin's message. << "Thank you for the invitation. Where are we headed?" >> she asks, as she starts to head out of the ship. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "I know his name as Jasper... I'm beginning to suspect that may not be his actual name. He's a Mandalorian who wears black armor. Tall, slim...hides in the shadows a lot..." Zetha begins. "I believe he might be the key to helping us find a certain laboratory that's been doing some dirty business. And if I can get to Jasper then I can likely be the in needed to find out where this place is..." Which is the only debriefing she knows to give. 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "I'll take that as a yes, Cayde. Just give me a moment to contact Volken," Navi says, taking out her comlink and opening a channel to the giant Mandalorian. <Hello again, Volken. May I ask sommething of you?> she sends over the comlink. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Er'gi sighs. "I suppose," he says, "but this doesn't change the fact that I do need a drink. Badly. Perhaps several pints. We're in deep vod, with no clear way out..." Thaarin cheerfully suggests a cantina on the far side of town. Perhaps Ellari will feel suspicious of that choice, but he offers to pay for everyone's first rounds... Mondrian looks slightly unimpressed. "That's... all you have on him?" Then she shrugs. "Alright, well, that's fine. I think we should head for the local cantina, and see if anyone there has seen him around. You live here, so you know where all the gossip goes down.. right?" 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' <H'lo there.> Volken's voice is cheerful sounding as it responds back to Navi. His helmet is back on now but he's pausing to let the others move ahead of him towards the indicated cantina. Treating this as private business for the moment. <What can I do for you? More good office,r bad officer?> 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde...does not give Navi a moment. Well anyway, they have to find the man first. Even as they approach the ship, he has already begun to search for the clone's presence. He has to be on board that ship, right? And somewhere in his memories, he has to know where he came from... 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     Ellari definitely thinks Thaarin is up to something with this, but the best way to find out about it was to oblige him and let him think he has the upper hand. "Let's go then." she says, and starts heading toward the designated meeting place. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "Uhm..." Zetha begins before her gaze shifts to look at the ground. "I mean I would suspect the cantina...but...I don't really know." Is finally said before she looks back up and over towards Navi and Cayde. A curiosity about what they're up to, but she remains quiet never the less. "First time I met him was at this club place...second time was at the cantina...so...I would assume if anyone has seen him it'd be there but... from what I've been able to poke from people is he hasn't been seen. Or if he has, no one's telling." 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' <That would probably be more fun, actually. We want to question the clone, telepathically. We need not be there in person. Cayde would be doing the hard parts, but I would be along to keep things as close to ethical as possible, and the doctor would be involved to ensure the right questions were asked. And we would share our findings, just in case anything we discover would be of use to you and your companions.> <Going by what we observed in our last encounter with the clone, its mental degradation hints that we need to question it as soon as possible.> Navi replies via the comlink. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' The doctor sighs a somewhat exasperated sigh as Cayde doesn't wait and starts heading for the Amber Clad. He notices the Mandalorians heading away from it and seems slightly relieved. Regardless, he follows Cayde. Cayde will immediately be able to tell that yes, the clone is on Ellari's ship, locked away in the brig. His state of mind has deteriorated since he'd last seen him, and it seems that he has fallen out of touch with reality somewhat. "Well, obviously," the blonde says a bit harshly. "That's what we're here to do to. Get his attention, and then Find the bastard, eventually. So let's get to it. Where's this cantina you're talking about?" And she's already walking rapidly towards the exit of the spaceport. The other Mandalorians follow Ellari out of the Amber Clad and towards wherever she's leading them, although Kasseady still seems rather put out. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Oh, yes...there he is. Upon locating the clone, Cayde tries to enter his mind again, this time with a bit more care. Just to assess his mental status in more detail for the moment. It will become clear to the others that he has already begun, as that signature vacant expression has appeared. 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     As they are heading toward the cantina, Ellari notices Volken talking to someone on his comm. "Who are you speaking to?" she inquires of him as they head for the edge of town. 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' With the other Mandalorians on edge...they were right to come to him with this. Even so, Volken frowns mildly and then finally rumbles, ironically repeating his words to Ellari, <This needs a surgeon's scalpel, not a hammer. Are you sure Cayde can pull it off without making things worse? The clone reacted badly when Cayde tried to get into its mind before. Plus, what's this about some family he jacked up mentally? That just a rumor? Are you -sure- he can do it?> Granted it's not a no. But she needs to give him a little more context. 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' <It is a rumor, and it isn't. That situation was extremely complex... Cayde lost control of his powers because he was extremely ill. He had a severe, nearly fatal allergic reaction to the plants in the area, as he is allergic to nearly all of the flora and fauna on Tenoo. Especially the flora, and the food. We found him shortly after. Today he is in his right mind and not suffering from any allergic episodes.> Navi explains. <Anyway, I'm along to ensure that we do have a scalpel, and not just a hammer. I'm confident that we can do our questioning without doing anyone any harm. But I also wanted to make sure that we kept you all in the loop, and you are the most level-headed of your party.> 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha's eyes narrow a little and then she shakes her head. "You don't have to be such a jerk about it. You just got here, we just met, and you don't know anything about me or this other person. And I'm not keen to give someone who's being such an egg sucker the history of me. You want to help, fine, help. But don't be an ass about it." Then she walks out of the spaceport herself and towards the cantina in question. Muttering something else under her breath, but in her native tongue. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' The doctor sighs. "You should probably tell Volken that Cayde's already at it..." Well, it's not good. He seems to have lost track of time, and hasn't been eating, despite the food that the other Mandalorians have been providing him for the past few days. However, when Cayde enters his mind, he stirs from his delirium a bit and a sense of curiosity arises. He's aware Cayde is poking around, but isn't sure what the sensation is... Mondrian seems surprised when Zetha appears offended. "Oh," she says, "Sorry. I tend to forget manners when I'm working," she says. She rubs her head, looking apologetic, and slows down, letting Zetha take the lead. "You're the local here... I should be letting you take point." 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' Volken is silent. Dead silence on the other end of the call. Navi can practically hear the gears churning. The engine idling. Then: <Alright. Thanks for sharing that with me... I'll cover for you. The truth is - we don't have any other leads on figuring out who is cloning him. Is it a targetted attempt to manipulate Mandalore? Or something else all together? So yeah. If you can pull some clues right from his mind then that'll help all of us. You and us. Don't worry about Ellari, Kass, Jorn or Er'gi. I'll deal with them. I suspect only Kass will pitch a fit. Who cares what he thinks at this point.> With that he turns and starts for the cantina. though he leaves his comm link on. 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' <The doctor and Master Windu seem to believe that some amount of cloning may be taking place right here on Tenoo... there are some unethical Arkanian scientists that have been very busy with medical experiments near the Vergence in The Gorge. Much of the wildlife near the Vergence is much larger than usual and unusually healthy, which suggests that it enhances the life forces of the local flora and fauna.> <These Arkanians have been yammering nonstop for a month or more about some impressive breakthroughs, and they had a lab near the Vergence for a while. It's no longer there. I suspect they have become worried about being discovered and have moved headquarters to avoid scrutiny from the Jedi and the Republic security agencies.> <It is equally possible that there are other cloning facilities out there in the galaxy, and that this one is unrelated to your particular cloning woes. Anyway, thank you for helping us.> She puts away her datapad, watching the interaction between Mondrian and Zetha. "Maybe I'd better go with them... they look like they're already at each other's throats," she murmurs. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha glances over to Mondrian and then nods once. Then she sort of relaxes. "It's fine really. I haven't been the most social most of my life here so I don't know how things really work. And I've only met this guy twice...and I blew him off the second time...now I'm trying to cash in the offer he gave me that night." She sort of explains that a bit further while leading the way towards the cantina where she had last seen Jasper. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde frowns, focusing on the clone's mind. This certainly wasn't good. He tries to create a peaceful mindscape, like the one he'd used with Zetha before. A sense of calm, a place of security. Maybe somewhere familiar... 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Kublop is a small town, so Ellari and the other Mandalorians reach the cantina Thaarin had suggested they meet at within fifteen minutes. He's waiting outside for them, grinning. He then approaches Ellari and taking her hand, kisses it. "It's been a hot minute~ How are you?" He doesn't offer a greeting to Volken, Kass, or Er'gi. At least not right away. The doctor nods at Navi, when she says that she should probably accompany Zetha and Mondrian. Then he turns to Cayde, and tapping the young padawan on the shoulder, says quietly, "How goes it?" The peaceful mindscape seems to soothe the young clone to a degree. Cayde will be able to sense him becoming more aware of his surroundings and reality, now. He's wondering who it is that's creating the mindscape. "Yeah..." Mondrian continues. "Me either, honestly. I work, basically, and that's all. Everything else..." she trails off. "Well, let's just say it makes up less than ten percent of my time. Maybe twenty on a good day." Once they're within sight of the cantina, she points to it with a nod. "This the spot?" 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' <A clone of one of our barons ends up on this planet after a wild goose chase, where there happens to be folk doing cloning experiments. Seems unlikely it's not related.> remarks Volken <Plus there's how desperate he was to see the Dark Sabre. Caine's always had some nonsense in him about that thing. Makes me wonder just how long it's been the clone we've been dealing with. Anyway, keep me posted the instnat something happens. Especially as the guy's in Ellari's ship...> With that, Volken steps into the Cantina and moves to find the others. This is about to get interesting... Because he held back to talk to Navi, he's last to arrive and does so just in time to see Thaarin putting the moves on Ellari and the lack of acknowledgement of him. So naturally: "This dump the place?" 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde takes a bit of a risk and shows himself within the mindscape, standing among lush green grass that covers peaceful rolling hills that look somewhat like the ones near Aklyrr. <My name is Cayde...but, who are you?> he asks, a genuine question. <Not Caine...he is too old>     The padawan doesn't answer nor respond to Soren's question, as he is focused on gently prodding the information they need out of the clone. 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     Ellari accepts the kiss. "I've been about as well as can be expected, I suppose." she tells Thaarin, then turns to Volken and Er'gi. "You've met my companions, Volken and Er'gi, correct?" 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' Navi follows Mondrian and Zetha. Things seem peaceful at the moment, but that could change very quickly. "It's been a while, Mondrian," she says softly to the agent. The last time they'd spoken had been at a fancy party on Coruscant. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "Yeah. I get it." Zetha says this and then nods her head. "This is the spot." She confirms and then opens the door to let Mondrian and Navi in. "Be easy to act like we don't know each other. I'm almost wondering if, suddenly, he's going to just be here... especially since I've been poking around about him." She offers low and then quick steps into the place, giving it a curious glance around. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Thaarin nods to Eri'gi, then looks to Volken, and laughs, lighting up a charming smile. He doesn't let go of Ellari's hand, though. "Volken," He says warmly, "It's good to see you, too. I hope you're looking forward to a pint of whatever you'd like... on me." The clone hesitates. He doesn't seem to know his name, not really. He'd been assigned an ID - Zero One. But he didn't quite like that name. ".... Jasper," he finally says after a moment of thought. Mondrian's gaze becomes slightly shifty. "Yeah..." she trails. "I hope you've been okay." Mondrian nods. "Do whatever you need to do," she says. "I guess me and Navi can investigate some of the patrons, and see if they've seen him around." And she starts heading for the back of the cantina. Zetha might want to head to the bar - she'll at least recognize the bartender. She's a relative of the owner of Hap's and she knows mostly everyone in Kublop by name. 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' Volken slowly looms forward. Hulking in like some sort of aged Dowutin. Quite so as he is as large as one save with the armor and physique of a collection of bodybuilding Mandalorians. Leans in like a tree towards Ellari, almost possessively. Maybe a little -too- close...as if they were a couple. If his helmet wasn't on, you might think he was going for a kiss... But he seems to be sending a deliberate message of intent towards Thaerin by doing so, especially as he lowers his voice and rumbles in Mand'oa, so soft it's almost a whisper -- as if whispering something intentional and oh so personal and private just for her.... <<....They're interrogating the clone on board your ship with the boy's telepathy....>> How romantic. "Of course." he finally rumbles, back in Basic again towars Thaerin. "O'course." he repeats. Grinning ear to ear under that helmet. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde sides down cross-legged in the grass and begins picking at it idly. <Where are you from Jasper?> he asks. <I'm from Coruscant> he starts out with that. It would seem innocuous enough, right? All the while, he starts trying to peer into the clone's memories, as far back as he can. All the way from the start of his life... 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     "Thank you for treating us, Thaarin." Ellari says with a smile. "It's always a pleasure to have you around."     She arches a brow at Volken leaning in to tell her just that. Was he jealous? "Hm, I see." she replies, still in Basic. "Well, let's hope for some results this time. Productive ones, that is." 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "I've been well enough, all things considered. This colony initiative has been a shifty nightmare before it ever left port, and we've had a job holding the place together," Navi replies to Mondrian. "I started out as an assistant to Master Windu in the medical labs, and put on a badge a month or so ago when the prior Marshal was wounded in the line of duty and bedridden for a while. At least before that I found time to share a dance with someone." A gentle poke in the feelings. She had asked Mondrian to dance on Coruscant and had been rather brutally turned down. She definitely hasn't forgotten, even if she has forgiven. "Good luck, Zetha. Yell or send a comlink message if you need anything," she says softly to Zetha, before moving to go with Mondrian. "It's good to have you. The woman you replaced was an extremely poor fit for this place." 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha takes a slow breath and then approaches the bar and slides into a seat that has empty seats on either side. She gives a grim smile to the bartender. "I'll take a blue milk cooler.." She offers while still scanning what she can see of the cantina. Particularly for any shadowy outlines of a man in black beskar. "...and maybe a little information that you may have on a certain Mandalorian I was last seen here with." Of course she keeps her voice low enough to hear but maybe not be overheard. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Thaarin laughs, leaning away from Volken a bit and seeming unintimidated. "Ah, if only you understood personal space a bit better," he says, "then perhaps you could increase your already effervescent charm," he says. Then he takes Ellari's hand and guides her into the cantina, smiling. "You're welcome," he says to the female Mandalorian. The clone pauses. "... I... I don't know, actually. I wasn't born naturally, that's for sure. My first memories involving waking in some kind of artificial amniotic fluid." The clone isn't lying. He'd been birth in some kind of massive glass chamber, full of fluid. The room is immaculate, whitewashed, and has no windows... "Oh," Mondrian says to Navi. "Um. Sorry," she offers, seeming to not know what else to say. She doesn't look at Navi when she says that she'd found someone to dance with, instead, changes the subject. "Look. That guy sitting over there," she says, pointing a rather withdrawn Duros sitting near the window in the back. "Maybe he knows something." "Okay, one blue milk cooler coming up for Zetha," the Latero female says, multiple arms rotating as she moves to make the drink. She pauses. "Ohhh that guy." She leans closer to Zetha. "What about him?" 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' Ah, Volken was perhaps a little -too- subtle apparently. That just flew right over Ellari's head and Thaerin's as well apparently. Truthfully he leaned in liek that as an excuse, true enough, but he also didn't want Er'gi and Kass to hear about the interrogation and possibly make a scene. Coming in close to whisper might have been a touch theatric and for Thaeerin's benefit but -- well we can't all be quick on the uptake. "Mmm..." he rumbles, "I understand personal space just fine, thankyouverymuch. When my fist meets someones skull, made great use of it." With that, he follows them into the cantina and just waits for further word from Navi. 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "Don't worry about it. All that about how what doesn't kill you makes you stronger probably applies. But I'll be very glad to go home, too," Navi observes wryly. As Mondrian points out the Duros, Navi starts his way, nodding. "Pardon me, sir. We were looking for a Mandalorian... roughly average build, slightly thin, black armor. We were wondering if perhaps you've seen this individual?" 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha smirks, glances left and right and then leans in herself. "Been hoping to run into him again, but he's an elusive creature. You wouldn't happen to know anything about where he might be or...even better...a way to contact him? Been hoping to cross his path but it's not been easy." Course, not a lot of things are easy and thus she's putting it out there. Might be that if nothing else she could leave a message with the Latero to pass along should she see him again. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''      Cayde replies, when Jasper tells him he wasn't born naturally. <When you first go out> he asks. <Where was it?> he prods further, attempting to dig more, sifting forward bit by bit. At some point, the clone had to have left the lab. Gone places. 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     "It wasn't a matter of personal space," Ellari corrects Thaarin, sitting down at the bar. "There are simply -some- topics that are more sensitive, and warrant a level of -discretion-. Wouldn't you agree?" 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Perhaps, perhaps not. Either that, or Thaarin just doesn't care. More likely the latter. "Volken, Volken~" he says, "I do believe you should learn the value of the intersection of personal space and gentleness. I could even teach you, if you like," he says. Then he smiles fondly at Ellari like he's smitten with her and doesn't dignify her with a response. Instead he guides her towards the bar, where he waves the bartender over and orders a round of whatever anyone from their party wanted on his own tab. Mondrian nods at Navi, but then lets her take over the interrogating of the Duros, who frowns at Navi. "Who's asking?" he says brusquely. "Oh. -Ohhh-." the bartender says. "No idea where he is, and I certainly do NOT have contact information for him but..." she looks thoughtful. "Hm..." Then her eyes light up. "I do have his payment information. And I -can- leave a custom tab item on his credit chit, for a single credit or... maybe more, for a drink that doesn't exist, buuuut does include your name, and maybe... " she looks over at Zetha. "Whatever you'd like it to say?" The clone frowns, as if trying hard to remember. "Somewhere in the Gorge," he says. "But where I went out, is not where my ... master enters. And that exit actually no longer exists." 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' Navi produces her badge and ID. "Deputy Marshal Navi Valrennan, Aklyrr Bend," she replies. "The Mandalorian's a person of interest in a recent case." 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha thinks on this a moment, then her gaze shifts to where Mondrian and Navi are asking about this particular Mandalorian themselves. Then she looks back to the bartender. "Yeah. Do that. Make it a five credit charge with my name and a message. Meet me where we first connected. That's what I want it to say." Then she looks around one last time before motioning over to the two she entered with. "And those two? If they ask where I went. You don't know anything. I'll come claim the drink at a later time..." She'll wait for confirmation of all this, slides 100 credits across the bar top and then slides off her seat. After that she's gone. Zetha has left the building. 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' Looks like Ellari got his intent there after all. Volken grunts faintly. Some acknowledgement of her words. But he says nothing as Thaerin speaks again. Instead he just rests his hands against his broad waist and watches as the man guiides Ellari further in and towards the bar... Wiating now for Er'gi and Kass to catch up with him. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     @emit     <Tell me about where it was> Cayde prods further. <In the Gorge...where? Near to a landmark? Near to ....> he searches for words. <Why does it not exist now? ...We find your master, we can help you...fix your mind. Already fixed some...> 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     Ellari sits down at the bar, making herself comfortable for now. "Speaking in such a condescending manner to someone many times your size?" she remarks to Thaarin, smirking. "Someone as intelligent as you should know better."     "Now I am assuming that you wanted to come here, all the way on the edge of town, for a reason other than small talk?" 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' The Duros purses his lips and then scowls. "Person of interest, huh," he says, "how so? What kinda case is this?" Er'gi catches up with Volken easily. "Well?" he says, "what are you waiting for? Let's order something." Kass is lingering, and the thought that he might suddenly cut and run might occur to the other Mandalorians. "I... I don't know!" the clone cries, gripping his head. His frustration is palpable. "I don't know. It collapsed. I don't know where he is right now. And if he hasn't come for now by now, then he's not going to respond to any of my attempts to contact him." Thaarin laughs. "Oh, he won't attack me," he says with brazen confidence and a smile. "Why, you don't enjoy my small talk?" he says. Then he continues with, "I thought you'd like to know a bit more about these Arkanians that your dear baron has chosen to associate with." 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' He's not wrong though it is for different reasons than he probably thinks. No, Volken's not interested in crushing him into a small ball due to other more important things on his mind. Imagine that - Kass is more important here. "Don't even think about it." he warns Kass. "What's wrong with you? You're out here with us because -I- gave you the chance to prove yourself and be useful. Otherwise Jorn and Ellari would have you locked up in the brig on their ship. Naked still. Show some clout and class for once." He turns his attention from Kass and gestures at Er'gi, "Have your way. He's buyin' after all." He gestures to Thaerin, still macking on Ellari. "I'm just waitin' for Ellari to twist his arm off. The poor guys' got no idea what he's dealin' with someone that can rag doll him like a Rancor." He pauses, considering what else to add and then simply says towards Er'gi, "Just sit tight. We might have some news sooner rather than later. Drink up." 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde reaches out and puts a hand on Jasper's shoulder, trying to calm him down. <It's okay...just tell what you know. Where were you when you left last time? What things nearby? We can find it, then we find him> 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     "You sound so confident in that. Why?" Ellari asks curiously.     She glances back toward Kass, glaring daggers at him. He'd better not try anything. Not with Volken around. The man's faster than he looks. "Oh, and what about them?" she asks. "Have you located them?" 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "A potential missing persons case. He hasn't been seen lately, and there is some suspicion that he is not who he claims to be. Further, there are other Mandalorians on Tenoo, looking for him," Navi explains. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Kass's gaze darts around when Volken tells him to shape up. He looks for a hot second like he really is just going to cut and run, but then his shoulders slump and he drags himself over to the bar and orders -two- pints of beer. Er'gi leans towards Volken. "I don't think she will, vod. I think this fellow's dangerous... don't say I didn't warn you. He knows what he's getting himself into..." "I told you," the clone says to Cayde. "I don't remember. It's just somewhere in the Gorge. My.. Caine. He intended for the location to be obfuscated. All I can tell you is that there were lots and lots of those massive Tenooian trees. But that's just what the Gorge is like everywhere." "And who are these missing persons?" The Duros presses Navi. "Heh! I make it my business to make Mandalorians -not- my business! I wouldn't know where he is now. Last I saw him, he'd was at the tram station. But I don't think he got on it. That's all I can remember." Thaarin doesn't answer Ellari's question, he just gives her a flirtatious look and shrugs. "We're close," he half lies, "but you may like to know that they're eating out of that Xera Graf woman's palm. She's their funding, basically." 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "He's the most obvious one. Though there are a couple Arkanians that have also become scarce lately," Navi replies. "Do you remember how long ago you saw him at the tram station?" 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' "Hmm...dangerous you think? Hmm... maybe we should try and put him off his game, eh?" rumbles Volken upon hearing Er'gi. He leans back against the bar, thinking abit, as he looks towards Ellari and Thaerin .. and then finally his deep voice calls out in Man'doa, rolling heavily across the bar towards Ellari. <<Why don't you come over here and be my girl for a minute and see if your lover boy can keep his cool when he doesn't think he's in full control...>> After all - they've played this part before. If they can pull it off at a wedding they can certainly manage it in a cantina with an arrogant know it all who thinks he's got the upper hand. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     <But how you get here?> Cayde asks. There had to have been a path. The mindscape shifts, as he tries to take Jasper back to the first time he'd ventured out of the Gorge. <You take us there...>     There is an odd sensation, as he relinquishes some control of the mindscape to the clone. The imaginary world can now be shaped his own memories, like being in control of the entire world around him. It waits for him to recall... 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     "And why is she funding them? What does she want, and what business could she have with us?" Ellari asks, watching as Kass finally catches up and sits down dejectedly. Finally, something -smart-.     She looks over to Volken at his suggestion. "'Lover boy'?" she scoffs back in Mando'a as well. "Don't worry Volken, I know his game just as well as he does mine." 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "I dunno," the Duros says, "Maybe a couple weeks ago? My memory's not what it used to be." "Well..." Er'gi says, "I didn't say I thought it was a bad thing. I'm... enjoying this drink on his tab," the other giant says. "That was more for you. Ellari doesn't seem at all inclined to be listening to you right now.." The clone seems to be spiraling. For some reason, bringing up this memory seems to be triggering for him. "No no no..." He mutters. "I don't.. I don't know. I can only remember direction. I came -up- from somewhere. We were.. down below. Perhaps underground." But then Cayde's mindscape will be interrupted, because the doctor is shaking him. "Cayde," he says gravely, "any idea what -they're- doing here?" He's looking over at a group of fully armed marauders approaching the Amber Clad. Zealot is among them. Leading them, even. Thaarin shrugs. "They helped her turn a profit off of the research they conducted awhile back regarding genetically enhanced individuals," he says. "Who were then employed by local security corps or private mercenary groups who operate in and around the Outer Rim." His gaze flicks to Volken momentarily. "You're a smart woman, Ellari," Thaarin says, "why, she doesn't have any business with you. But perhaps she -should-. It could work in your favor." 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "Thank you, sir. You've been most helpful," Navi says, rising and leaving the table to return to Mondrian. She explains what little she learned. 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' << Yes, thereforce the two of you are endlessly circling one another without one gaining the upper hand over the other but suit yourself. I was only offering you a way to 'win'.>> remarks Volken dismissively. He naturally has no idea that they're discussing one of his past contractors. Probably for the best. "Me?" he asks Er'gi and then laughs, "Why? He's no threat to me. Or do you mean you think he might 'steal Ellari away eh? Don't jump to conclusions vod. If I was -seriousl- dont' you know I'd be over there? I don't give a damn about 'personal space'..." Volken's voice carries the grin his helmet obscures. "We'll see if he proves more useful than just buying drinks. If he's not? Well.. -then- I'll break him..." 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde stops barraging Jasper with questions, and instead just tries to sort through his memories having exited the lab and the gorge. He must remember leaving, which way he had come from. Where he'd gone afterward and how he'd eventually come here to Kublop. After all, it wasn't -that- long ago. He doesn't respond to Soren shaking him...it would seem the padawan is truly in deep. 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     "Win what?" Ellari asks, tilting her head to the side slightly.     "Hmm..." she consider's Thaarin's words. "What are you suggesting? That she might know where they are? That she could threaten to cut their funding? But what sort of leverage would I have over her? Other than a blaster to her head? And what concern is it of yours? What -do- you want, Thaarin?" 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Meanwhile, Mondrian had been interrogating some of the other patrons. "Good work," she tells Navi, "this corroborates with the other two stories I was told about him going to the platform but not getting onto the tram. We should check that area out, next," she says. Er'gi seems skeptical of Volken's remark, but doesn't comment. Kass laughs impolitely. "For you to be happy, my dear. Naturally, all people have weaknesses - people, things, places. But one thing you -can- be certain of is that -you're- my greatness weakness, for better or for worse." Thaarin tells Ellari. But she may recognize that while he's lying, he's trying to get a point across about Xera, clandestinely... Jasper's memories aren't terribly useful. Yes, he would appear to have come out of somewhere underground, but the area does just look all the same as the rest of the Gorge. And he'd no idea how he'd ended up in Kublop - Volken, Ellari and Jorn had taken him hostage and then brought him aboard the ship, after knocking him unconscious. Regardless, the young padawan will be probably snapped out of his reverie, when the sound of screams and open fire assault his ears. Yes, that's Zealot, and he's barraging the the entryway to the Amber Clad with an automatic weapon at close range. he tells Cayde suddenly, <After all this time of observing the baron, his behavior, and what places and people he is most protective of. I've found some areas of interest, and I am certain, that if the marauders free the clone, or take him hostage, I can convince the baron to come. However, it won't work if the other Mandalorians try to tag along> 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde sighs, frustrated. What use had all of that been? Nothing. The gorge was huge. He begins to wonder why they had even attempted to get anything useful out of the clone at all. Perhaps it was best to leave the Arkanians be, unless and until they started actively causing problems for the Republic. As of the moment, this issue seemed to be mostly Mandalore's problem, and he's tired of chasing useless leads.     <Okay...Force be with you> he tells Amarik. He then turns to Soren. [Sorry...nothing useful] is all he has to offer before heading back toward the tram station. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Without further ado, Mondrian starts heading for the tram station, walking at a brisk pace. Navi will have to walk just as fast, or jog, to keep up. "Did he say anything else about where he might have gone at the tram station, other than just not getting on the train?" she asks Navi, without looking back at her. Navi might not get a chance to respond before the sound of explosive blaster fire and screams can be heard coming in the direction of the spaceport. They'll likely spot Cayde going to where they're headed, too. Mondrian will hasten her already quickened pace towards the young padawan. /Cayde, what's happening?/ she signs to him. Meanwhile, Zetha will probably hear the screaming and the sound of blaster fire, too. But she might decide to just continue with her mission to head to and camp out at the place she last saw 'Jasper' at... Jorn, however, is probably napping, thinking, or just in general introverting inside the Amber Clad when he'll hear what sounds like someone trying to gun down the airlock sealing entry to the Amber Clad. Maybe he'll be surprised, maybe he won't. 

:'''{{#var:418|Jorn (418)}} has posed:''' Jorn is busy thinking and actually practing forms using a piece of rebar or plastisteel just as a blade. He wants to keep the dark saber hidden. There's a pause as he hears that. Then he starts to head toward the airlock seal of Amber Clad. There's an eyebrow raised as he pulls out a blaster. He's making sure this won't turn too violent. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' It might be some time before 'Jasper' gets her message. Which, luckily, gives Zetha time to determine how she's going to approach all of this. When the sound of distant blaster fire reaches her, she glances in the direction of the spaceport but she doesn't move. She'd be no good in a firefight. Pascifisim and all that. Better she sits here and waits for her own trap to spring - even if that does mean making other people mad at her for going rogue in a sense. 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "Oh, for... not /another/ disturbance!" Navi cries in frustration, whirling to run toward the sound of weapons fire. Which in this case means toward the spaceport. "I hope that's not the Mandalorians... it feels a little out of character for this particular bunch." And then she gets closer to the /Amber Clad/ and sees just who is leading the shooters. "I should've guessed..." she murmurs, rubbing her forehead with one hand. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde actually -isn't- headed for the spaceport. Instead, he's headed for the tram station to return to Aklyrr.     When Ms Mondrian asks him what's going on, he just shrugs. [Pirates attacking Mandalorians] is all he has to offer, before quickening his pace back toward the station. 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     Ellari is heading for the airlock just as Jorn does. "Dark farrik, where's Volken when you need him?" she grumbles, heading for the armory.     She pulls out a handful of grenades from a munitions stash and hands them to Jorn. "They're going to break through it anyway and we may as well make this -our- ambush instead. I'm going to open the door and when I do you throw these, got it? On my signal." She nods and goes to the cockpit. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' When Jorn arrives in rfront of the airlock seal, the shooting stops. That might be coincidence, that might not, as the door looks like a feather light blow might cause it to collapse. The marauders are standing on the gangway, fully armed. They don't attack Jorn immediately, though. Their leader, Zealot stands foremost. "You've taken that which isn't yours," he says to the Mandalorians through the nearly shredded airlock. "We're here to take him back." They've come for the clone, obviously. When Zetha arrives, she might notice that this area, looks pretty different in the daytime. For one, it's a lot farther removed from Kublop that she might remember it to be. Not only that, but's really secluded, and overlooks a foggy valley that looks like it might lead straight to the Gorge. She might also notice, if she's especially keen, that the foliage here looks disturbed... Mondrian remains nonchalant. "Of course it's the Mandalorians," she says, "it's what they do. Cause trouble." She shrugs, and looks to Cayde. "Right then. If Jedi doesn't think it's our concern, then let's just get on with chasing down that lead," she says. /Update/ she signs to Cayde, hurrying to keep up with him. /We think there's a lead at the tram station regarding where our mystery Mandalorian goes to do all his work. And, by proxy, probably how the Arkanians are getting around Tenoo without anyone noticing./ 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "This bunch of them hasn't caused trouble since they arrived on-world," Navi replies to Mondrian. "They've actually been pretty agreeable, even gone out of their way to respect our laws. Given who's leading the group near the Mandalorian vessel, I'd say it's Marauders doing the shooting." 

:'''{{#var:418|Jorn (418)}} has posed:''' "Who is out there?" Jorn asks referring to the person(s) trying to destroy the lock. He's not against getting the jump on them. He's trying to assess the targets. A look goes to Ellari, "Grenades. I'll move on your mark," he expects the outcome to be explosive. Although, he will ready both blasters now. He'll give a nod to signal that he's ready to go. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' It's almost like it's a little more eerie being here in the daytime rather than at night. Especially considering how one can make out what is where - like the foggy gorge - and how it's a bit further away from home than Zetha likely intended to be. As she searches a bit more, just to take stock of her surroundings and where she might want to set up camp she notices the disturbance in the foliage. Stepping closer and brushing away some of the brances and twigs she then takes a step back and looks around again. Someone has been here. How long ago though? "Hello?" 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' Volken had excused himself from the others after having given Kassady and Er'gi a withering glare from behind his helmet after their last comments. With no particular need for him there was little point to him just standing there and watching Thaerin attempt to mack on Ellari. So he got his fill of drinks and then eventually had to excuse himself to what passed for the 'little boys room'. As Er'gi can attest, that can take him awhile once he's completely filled up and in need of emptying. Thus even when the sound of explosions reaches him he doesn't really react to much. A man's got to do his business. When Ellari's voice finally ripples through to his distracted haze over his comms he sighs, delays in responding and then finally ends up finishing and then making his way out of wash room and through the cantina itself back out for the streets before answering her. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde nods to Mondrian. [Okay] he signs in reply. Well he supposes that's convenient for her. Upon reaching the station, he heads for the platform and sits down in the waiting area if the train isn't there at the moment. 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     << Three, two, one...now! >> Ellari flips the switch and opens the airlock, or what's left of it, signaling to Jorn to lob the explosives. She also demands to know where Volken is over the commlink. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Mondrian just gives Navi a skeptical look. "Sure," she says, her tone flat, and the young Sephi won't need the Force to know that Mondrian doesn't really believe her. "Anyway, are you coming with us to the tram station to hopefully uncover more leads, or spend your afternoon trying to figure out why pirates and Mandalorians like fighting each other?" She doesn't wait for Navi's response, instead, she quickens her pace towards the tram station, until she finds Cayde sitting down in the waiting area. She frowns in disbelief. "What are you -doing-?" she says, "If there was an entryway to a clandestine tunnel somewhere near the transit station, it's not going to be here." Jorn won't receive a reply. Only the sound of boots on the gangplank... No answer. Whoever had been here, isn't here anymore. Or they're hiding from Zetha, and ignoring her. It seems pretty apparent to her that whoever had caused the disturbance in the foliage had been here kind of recently. Either way, this is the spot. If she's gonna wait for Jasper, it'll be here. 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' Navi rolls her eyes and follows Mondrian to the tram station. "Are you sure there's going to be anything to find after so long?" she asks softly. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha tilts her head one way and then the other before shifting to look around again. Either no one is here, or they're hiding from her. She looks up at some of the surrounding trees, finds one that seems to have a nice perching spot, and then shifts to climb up. Years of rambling in and through and around defunct spaceships likely keeps her agile enough to do so with little efford. Once she's up there, she'll settle into her perch, pulls her holobook from her satchel and settles in to read - though she's keeping most her senses attuned to her surroundings. 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' *BOOM* *BOOM* *BOOM* .... Volken's footfalls quicken in pace and intensity as the sounds of the fight continue to reach him and he makes the full connection that it is in fact they who are being attacked. He doesn't answer Ellari back over the comms but instead simply works to increase his pace until the ship itself is within sight along with the chaos around it. Once the sight of the ambush opens up before him, he rolls a massive shoulder and unslings one of his repeater cannons from his flank. A loud whining sound occurs as it starts to charge up - building energy and then finally a loud *VRAAAAAAP* rumbles through the air as he begins unloading the weapon and sending a spray of blaster fire across the area towards their aggressor. "Flea..." he grumbles. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Upon catching up to the young Jedi, Mondrian will find Cayde sitting there with...what looks like a bubble of silver paint floating in front of him. It twists and turns into a brush shape.     [Waiting for train] Cayde replies to Mondrian, as if it's quite obvious. Isn't it obvious? This where you wait for the train to Aklyrr. 

:'''{{#var:418|Jorn (418)}} has posed:''' Once the door opens Jorn just readies the explosives and tosses them down. Even given a small wave before moving to cover on the wall to ready his blasters. Because the party shouldn't just stop after the explosives. 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     As soon as the grenades go off, Ellari readies her blasters as well and hurries toward the airlock to provide Jorn support. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "No," Mondrian says, "but there's only one way to find out if there's anything or not," she says resolutely. Mondrian rolls her eyes. "Navi, how do you even deal with this everyday?" she turns back to the young padawan. "You're co-deputy! Now act like it. I'm going to need your help here," she says. She then reaches over to grab the young padawan by the arm and drag him to... wherever. Zetha will be perched there for ... a little while. The sounds of shooting and screaming coming from the spaceport will still be able to be heard, but it's pretty distant. She might even lose track of time, reading her holobook. But eventually, she'll hear some rustling coming from down below... Volken won't have to look hard to find that cursed marauder. He'd actually left the gangplank entirely, so that he could greet Volken properly. How polite of him! He chuckles quietly when Volken calls him a flea, and opens fire on him, just barely managing to cartwheel aside and evade getting seared by the barrage. Then he takes out his own shotgun and aims not at Volken's head, but his crotch. Then he fires. The grenades knock a couple of the marauders off the gangplank. They yowl as they tumble to the ground. The others manage to get clear of the blast in time, but then Ellari starts shooting. A few of them take hits. Some of them slide down the gangplank, others take the hits and are slowed down, but continue advancing, taking out their own weapons and returning fire. 

:'''{{#var:418|Jorn (418)}} has posed:''' Jorn will peak out from the hole and start taking shots witht he blasters. Because the rumble of those explosions go off. He's just firing off the blasters for a few moments before moving back for cover. Return fire is a thing. "It's never a boring day is it?" he calls out to no on in particular. 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' Navi shrugs. "We usually work separately, and he has always had a habit of running off, so I'm used to him not being around," she replies, looking around the station for anything that might be a clue. "His horrible allergies to much of the plant and animal life here keep him from going far. Most of the time." 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     When Mondrian grabs Cayde by the arm, he frowns and tries to twist away from her. He really hates it when people grab him like that.     And then, the silver paint bubble wobbles and suddenly bursts, the paint flying in all directions and splattering across himself, Navi, and Mondrian's clothing. 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     "Would you prefer it was?" Ellari remarks back to Jorn. She rolls into cover, barely dodging a few potshots while a couple more glance off of her armor. "Volken, make these hu'tunns go away." she calls out to the behemoth of a man as she keeps firing at them. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' There's a moment where Zetha pauses as she hears the rustling and then slowly puts her holonovel back into her satchel before peering over to see who is emerging from the underbrush. When she spots the familiar beskar, she'll shift to hook her legs over the limb of the tree and then swings backwards so she's hanging upside down. "Was wondering how long it would take for you to get my message." She offers, potentially hoping to be looking at the face of the man in beskar but she very well could be looking at the back of his head. 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' Volken just -happens- to click on his comm link to Navi - allowing the sound of explosions and shouting and yelling to come pouring into her ears as he unloads another barrage of repeater fire at Amarik. <<Hey.>> he rumbles casually as if he were just calling her for a chit chat. <<You busy?>> Another booming explosion goes off. <<We're tearin' up your space port.>> he rumbles calmly. <<Self defense tho'.>> It's sheer distraction that enables that shot to go off though and to be fair, Volkens' got alot going on down there! Why else does it take him so long to drain the gizzard! But some form of dumb luck coupled with the beskar keeps him from just having a hole shot right through his pelvis area when the blaster fire hits from the shotgun and flying sparks send scorch marks up and down his inner thigh burn away portions of his trousers. It hurts like hell, naturally. A string of furious mandalorian curses rips out of him, very very audible to Navi and he brings his massive arm up and sends a whipcord lashing out towards Amarik, attempting to grab him and yank him towards him! 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Jorn's shots knock a couple of the marauders out for good. They're either dead, or out for the count. Still, there's several advancing, pushing their way into the ship. One of them throws a gas grenade, and suddenly, there's smoke everywhere, obscuring their view of the immediate vicinity. "Oh, great," Mondrian grumbles. "he has -allergies-? Kriff..." Navi will notice while looking around that there's an abandoned looking staircase near the back of the platform, hard to see because the light above it is flickering. Maybe that's a good as a place as any to start? Mondrian yelps when the silver paint bubble bursts everywhere onto her clothes, hair, and face. She lets go of Cayde, and sighs. /Look. I'm sorry. I know that when I'm working I can be super shitty and mean. I don't mean to be. But I.. we really need your help. I just got here, and I don't know anything about this place, or the problems you've been running into, aside from my briefing, which was comically short. Come with us, please? I need you/ When Zetha descends, she'll see that, yes, she is actually looking at the back of his head. He's semi crouching, facing the direction of the spaceport, and using a pair of binocs. Is he... spying on the chaos going down there?? When she starts talking to him he whirls around and points a blaster at her. But when he sees that its just her, he lowers it. "... Zetha? What are you doing here? What message?" The whipcord snakes out and while Zealot attempts to step aside, it curls around his leg and he's suddenly being dragged towards Volken. He rolls over, and pointing his blasters beyond Volken, shoots twice at several fuel canisters sitting below the Amber Clad. If he's successful, the canisters will burst open, spill fuel everywhere and then ignite. 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "There's a staircase back here!" Navi calls, moving to wave Cayde and Mondrian over... and then she gets a look at that silver paint sphere. "Oh, sh-..." she begins, and hastily ducks back behind the corner of the station as silver paint goes /everywhere/! Peeking out, she winces at the sight of Cayde and Mondrian covered with silver paint. "Oh, geez... you two might want to go by the convent and clean up," she suggests, only to have her comlink earpiece come to life. "There's a big firefight at the spaceport," she says to Mondrian. "The Mandalorian ship is under attack. I don't know if Kublop Springs even /has/ any defense forces." 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "You mean you aren't here because I left you a message to meet me here?" Zetha asks, finishing the motion to flip backwards and lands on her feet. "I've been looking for you. The message said to meet me where we first connected. Or shared a moment. Something like that." A hand waves through the air as she steps up beside him, seeming unbothered at the blaster having been pointed at her face mere moments ago. "Such chaos. But I suppose when too many people have too many questions and not enough answers, it's par for the course." She turns her head to look at him then. "You still willing to take a chance on a lost soul looking for her place in the galaxy?" 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde sighs when the paint splatters all over the both of them. [Sorry] he signs, and starts trying to delicately Force pull the paint off of her and himself, although it's kind of difficult with how diffuse it has become now.     There's a pause, and then he finally relents. [What do you need me then] he asks. At least she's nicer than her brother. 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     Good thing Mandalorians almost always wear their helmets into a fight, so Ellari isn't passing out but it still makes shooting anyone difficult. So instead of shooting at them, she darts back to the cockpit and fires up the engines, right as those fuel cannisters set fire to everything outside. They could board, but now she's going to make it impossible to leave -safely-.     The ship wrenches free from the docking clamps with a horrible grinding noise and rockets up into the sky, the cabin quickly venting atmosphere and pulling anything and everything not bolted down toward the damaged airlock. 

:'''{{#var:418|Jorn (418)}} has posed:''' Jorn breathes out again. Then he looks at Ellari for a moment. <<How are you holding up.>> The smoke comes through and he breathes out, trying to center himself. Then he pops out. He searches for a body. Just motion in the smoke. That's when he aims and squeezes the trigger. A flash of red disappears into the smoke. Then he'll hide again and looks at her for a moment. <<Evac plan?>> because he knows they need heavy ordinance to clear them out more. 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' Bleeding and furious. Not a great combo. Especially if you're the target of Volken's ire. Amarik should have opted to try and escape because ultimately Volken yanks on the whipcord with one arm to pull the Marauder into the air and to bring him sailing back towards him - adding insult to injury by triggering the whip cord's automatic retract system to add to the speed of it all. His other fist clenches and raises, looking like a boulder to the incoming marauder. To Volken's credit - he doesn't ignite the electrofield around the knuckles. He saw that fuel be breached and he grimaces as the fire spreads - but he just ends up sneering. Further igniting the fuel is a problem but he doesn't need to rely on blaster fire or electrical charge to do damage. That's just a bonus! "Right. Flea." he rumbles as he braces himself and then swings for the marauder once he's been yanked in range. He noticably doesn't bother untieing the whipcoard, perhaps intending on using the other man as a ping pong ball with is fists as the paddle. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "And the Mandalorians protecting themselves is a concern for us because....?" Mondrian trails off, arching a brow at Navi. "But fine, I'll get my brother to go over there with Vons and make sure none of the townsfolk get hurt. She takes out her commlink and starts tapping it to send a transmission to him, but while she's doing that, she says, "Now about what staircase?" She turns to Cayde, then says, /I just want you to come with us. I don't know specifically how I might need you, or when, but I just know that I probably will and even on the off chance that I don't, I'd feel a lot more comfortable with both the co-deputies by my side. And don't worry about the paint. It's really not a problem./ When the Amber Clad takes to the sky, several of the marauders lose their balance temporarily but manage to grab onto something so they don't fly out of the damaged airlock. One of them, while trying to regain his balance, is shot by Jorn. He yelps, giving his location away.. Jasper pauses. He seems skeptical, but he doesn't actually refuse her. "You've had a change of heart, I see," he says, "care to explain why?" Volken's whipcord is yanked taut as the side of Zealot is pulled towards his enemy. He pulls out both blasters and opens fire with both of them at base of the whipcord, hoping not only to sever the cord but give Volken yet another nasty burn or scorch. However, his timing is just barely off and his armored knee pad collides with the massive Mandalorian's knuckles. His armor clatters to the ground, and a scarlet gash on his leg opens up. 

:'''{{#var:418|Jorn (418)}} has posed:''' Jorn will try to hold onto something, but he wants to make one last parting shot since one person gave away their location. Jorn will wrap around tightly. The nearest handle or anything that sticks out like a makeshift handle. <<How are we looking?>> he calls out to Ellari over the short com. Then he pauses, <> 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "Well, the staircase is back here. It's hard to see, and I have a feeling it hasn't been used in a long time," Navi replies to Mondrian. She starts carefully down the stairs, producing a miniature high-intensity flashlight from her satchel. Within a few minutes she calls out, "There's an abandoned platform at the bottom! But there's also a concealed door down here! Well hidden, too! I'm betting there's /something/ interesting on the other side." 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Unfortunately, Cayde's attempts to clean up the paint just end up pulling on her hair. [Sorry] he signs again, but stops when she tells him not to worry about it.     He sighs. [Fine] But honestly, he is rather tired of following useless leads without any kind of concrete evidence that there will be anything productive coming out of this.     [...what we looking for] he asks. She'd said it, but he hadn't been paying much attention. 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     <<Still got a few more...>> Ellari answers Jorn. << Hold on tighter, I'm going to roll. >> She flips the ship sideways so that the broken airlock is facing downward. Now they'll have to fight both the immense air pressure AND gravity. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "My life got threatened. Something something hidden lab...blah blah...the guy wanted me to take a probe in and record stuff..." Zetha holds up her hands then. "You're free to search me. I destroyed the probe. But I also wound up going down into the gorge because I wanted to check a few leads for something /else/ and wound up running into two of you. So. Consider my interest piqued." There's a little smirk on her lips then. "I mean what could be more interesting here than if what I've been told and seen turns out to be true. The kind of profit margining you could be doing. And my parents are likely dead on some other planet after living the life of slavery. I feel like lucrative business is the much more interesting venture." 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' The whipcoard casing goes up in an eruption of sparks, flame and flying shrapnel. Some of it scores across Volken's torso. Others are deflected by his beskar armor. Given the beskar most of the vambrace is left intact but the cord is momentarily useless now. The cord itself is largely unharmed though it whips about wildly fro the release of the tension before falling to the ground. Volken's other arm comes around now though. With Amarik so close attempting to seize him seems the next best option here and he brings a colossal arm around to try and grapple and crush the guy to the ground under his bulk. <<Er'gi! Kassady! Where are you!?" 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' There's another yelp, a FWUMP, and then the sound of a body flying out of the Amber Clad at high speed. At least that's one less marauder, now. However, Jorn will be able to hear the sound of stumbling, and bodies hitting bulkheads just up ahead as Ellari twists and turns. Surprisingly none of them will come sliding down the hallway towards Jorn. However, he'll know now where they're all headed - towards the holding cell where the clone is. But he'd probably figured that already. "Nice," Mondrian says, "you've a keen eye," she says to Navi with a grin. "Can you get it open?" Mondrian points at the door Navi had just found. /We've got another lead/ she signs. "You're in danger," the beskar clad man says, "why didn't you tell me earlier? I can protect you, you know. I'd be more than happy to," he continues, clearly enticed. "Well... I could show you. But I need to know that I can trust you," he says. "I want you to do me a favor." Volken actually succeeds in bringing his massive arm down on top of the smaller marauder. He manages to pull an arm free, and just as Volken urgently messages Er'gi and Kasseady, he'll see what the marauder has in his hand. It's a grenade, and he's about the flick the pin. Well, that might be -really- bad for both of them, even if they both have armor. There's no response fro Er'gi, but Kass replies lazily. <<I'm right where I want to be, di'kut! Next to my sixth pint of beer. Ah... I can barely stand...>> 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "Eh. I live a stones throw away from the marauders. When am I not in danger? Besides, I didn't have any real way to find you. Hence the message I left at the cantina we ran into each other at. But that's all in the past. I'm more concerned about the future." Zetha offers this before she folds her arms across her chest and leans in from the waist forward. "I can do a favor. Lay it on me." 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' Priorities means that Volken cannot answer Kass but he will. Oh he will. "Don't be -stupid-..." he hisses as he tightens his grip on Amarik. "I've stepped onto a mine and only gotten mildly disorientated. I'll weather that grenade like a childs firecracker. You won't. -Surrender-." 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "I can try, but if it's more complicated than giving it a push or a concealed latch, we might need someone with mechanical skills to budge it," Navi replies to Mondrian. "Wish me luck." 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde nods and follows Mondrian, although he still looks rather unenthused. It was exhausting, following random nebulous things that appeared 'suspicious' but had no obvious connection to anything relevant. [What is it] he asks. 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     Ellari just continues spinning the ship about, attempting to dump out the pirates. Either way, even if they get to the clone, they'd still have to go through her to get anywhere productive. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Mondrian turns to Cayde and signs, /Looks like a doorway leading to somewhere else. We got a lead from a Duros about Jasper coming here but never getting on the train. There's got to be another clue if we follow this lead/. She then turns to Navi. "Lead the way," she says to the young Sephi girl. 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "Force, be with us, please..." Navi murmurs, aiming her mini-flashlight through the door and stepping through, looking around cautiously... 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde hesitates. Not this -again-. But then sighs reluctantly and follows Navi. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' The marauder doesn't say anything. Volken probably won't be surprised, the 'Flea' had never been been a man (or woman, for all Volken knows) of many words. But the massive Mandalorian probably won't need words from him to guess his next move, because he hasn't let go of the grenade. His hand is still on the pin. Is he really going to do it...? He doesn't seem intimidated by Volken, or his threats. However, what might actually surprise Volken is what he does next. The massive Mandalorian will suddenly be able to see in his mind eye's a cacophony of imagery. The feeling won't be totally foreign - it's similar to what Cayde does, but much, much less clear and ten times less orderly. It feels like a film reel of weird blurry memories that may or may not be Zealot's. There's one of a crying child, a blond toddler at a spaceport somewhere, that Volken may or may not recognize as Cayde. The voice of a woman, saying soothing words that sound too garbled to be comprehended. Then, another memory, which is just an amalgamation of moving colors and shapes, paired with the feeling of desperation and sadness. Then there's more voices, a point of view of someone approaching a house that an elderly gentlemen with tired eyes answers, but this memory doesn't have any sound. It seems that perhaps the marauder is trying to convey some kind of narrative but what that narrative is, is completely obscured by the blurry memories and disorderliness of the projection. Then suddenly, the grenade goes off. The massive Mandalorian might be expecting heat, shrapnel, perhaps to be blown back, but none of that happens. There's just a really, really bright, blinding flash and an ear splitting bang that might cause his head to spin and his ears to ring. He'll then hear shouting, and the sound of running footsteps. 'Jasper' chuckles. "You probably aren't going to like it. But if it didn't require quite a bit of effort, then what kind of favor would it be?" He pauses. "I need a wider variety of genetic material for my... experiments. Preferably, the Mandalorian kind, or the Force sensitive kind. Can you... acquire it for me?" He then looms over her. Meanwhile, Jorn had better hurry. Some of the marauders sound like they've made it to the clone's cell. If he doesn't get there soon, they might succeed in blasting the door holding him hostage open. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha smirks. Actually smirks, and then straightens up a bit and tilts her head to the side. "Lucky you, I know a few of both. I suspect if the Mandalorians knew what you were up to, you'd lose your credibility as one." There's a chuckle. It's dark and that smirk never goes away. "You also know I run in circles with Force Sensitive people. Oh how clever you are. I can aquire what you need...but I'll have to be sneaky about it. Get a little closer to those who already trust me at arm's length. Which means, as much as you may keep an eye on me, you don't get to question my methods." She holds a hand out to him then, giving a tilt of her head. "Genetic material for what you can show me. It's a deal then?" 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     Ellari curses as those cursed pirates just don't seem to know when to quit in spite of all of the wild barrel-rolling she has been doing. Well then, she will just have to escalate further.     << Jorn...make sure your helmet's on. I'm going up. >> she warns, and then opens all the doors except the one to the clone's holding cell inside the cabin before turning the ship to a steep climb. The higher she climbs, the faster the air is sucked from the cabin. Without a functional airlock, the pressure difference becomes more and more difficult to resist as it threatens to tear them all out into sub-orbit. 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' It is indeed a familiar sensation. He didn't like it then. He likes it even less now. Confusion wracks Volken's mind as the images flood in. His girp loosens on the 'flea' and then - there's that grenade going off. It is not wha the expected, no...yet he should have expected it. No doubt tales of his personal touhgness coupled with that damned beskar armor have made the rounds. A physical exploson very well might not have slowed him down even at close range. Blinding him and making him deaf however? No amount of toughness will help there. So as the footsteps do begin to filter into his senses, barely, he takes a chance and simpl fires blind, sending out a repulsor blast in the direction he -thinks- he hears the running from. "Nngh.. STOP!" 

:'''{{#var:418|Jorn (418)}} has posed:''' As Jorn tries to ready himse,f brace himself, he's not one for dodging sadly. Too concerned about trying to hold onto everything. And he will hope the armor holds up. Just waiting for what could be some bad times. Still, he will just try to focus and figure out the next plan of actions while he has a few miliseconds to think. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Mondrian follows Navi through the door, and motions for Cayde to come along as well, though he's likely already tailing them. The doorway will open up into a labyrinth of underground tunnels. They don't look like they've been used much, but if either Navi or Cayde look down, they may notice that even though there aren't clear footprints, -someone- has trekked down here. Recently. There's a bunch of leafy detritus on the floor, and at first glance it might seem like there's nothing of interest among the dead leaves and twigs lying there. But a second glance will reveal that there are some wilted blue flowers scattered intermittently among the detritus lining the tunnel walls. It's almost like someone had intentionally left them here for them to find so they wouldn't have to wander the tunnels aimlessly. Cayde or Navi will recognize the flowers immediately - they're the kind that Crane would give them, every so often. They're common enough on Tenoo that no one would think much of seeing some wilted ones down here, but the way they've been strewn will be obvious to Navi and Cayde. Meanwhile, as Ellari aims the nose of her ship upward and accelerates, a good number of the marauders will get sucked out. Their screams will be heard as they fly past Jorn and out the ragged entryway to the Amber Clad. But Jorn will be able to see that there's still one left, desperately trying to claw his way to the cell where the clone is. He's almost there... "Of course," Jasper says. He seems charmed. "But naturally, they can't know. You know that, right? However, it shouldn't be hard to get a strand of hair, a little saliva, or even a fingernail." He turns to leave. "I need to tend to some matters, but you can reach me the same way you did before with the bartender. I see the line item now, on my checking account. Good luck, dear Zetha." Volken's blind shooting collides with... someone. There's a loud string of curses, accompanied by, "Local security here! You're under arrest, for assaulting a senior officer and severe property damage!" The behemoth, though, may decide it's no longer worth the trouble - Zealot's gone. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "I'm not an idiot. Of course I know. They won't suspect a thing." Zetha offers, retracting her hand that goes unshaken. Her head tilts and then she nods once more. "You'll hear from me soon. I'm sure of it." She offers this and that smirk hasn't faltered once. "See you soon, Jasper." Watching until his back is all she sees before she turns and heads back towards the spaceport. She pulls out her commlink and sends a message to Doctor Cassias. <<Have news. Will want to meet soon.>> Wondering if she should try to avoid the spaceport and perhaps heads to the convent instead. 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "Geez... naturally, there's about half a million passageways, just so we could wander around down here for eternity and never get out or find anything," Navi murmurs, shining her light around. And then the light touches the floor, and she takes a closer look. "Hey, look at these plants... there's some wilting flowers down here, with no flower plants for them to have come from. Cayde, do these look like the kind of flowers Crane was handing out? You might've seen more of them than me." "And it looks like they all point toward one tunnel. So I guess I'm friends with him again. Let's follow them." Taking her lightsaber hilt into her right hand, she begins to lead the way down the flower-strewn tunnel. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde follows them down into...great. -Another- labyrinth of tunnels. He notices the flowers, and almost rolls his eyes. Well, he supposes they're to follow these wilted flowers in this random hallway through this random door to something somewhere that may or may not be relevant to anything. He hesitates again, but finally follows Navi in the direction the flowers are pointing. What did the need him here for, again? 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     "Dank farrik!" Ellari mutters, and turns on the intercom. "Get off of my ship, hu'tuun! I don't know what you're hoping to accomplish! You get him out of the cell, and then -what-? You both get pulled out of the airlock, then drift in orbit for who knows how many cycles? What good does that do -anyone-?"     Then on Jorn's personal commlink: << "Jorn! What are you doing? Get -rid- of them!" >> 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' The doctor responds immediately. <We can talk now, I'm still in town, but are you alright? There was some kind of firefight involving the marauders and the Mandalorians at the spaceport. Please tell me you were nowhere near.> Mondrian frowns. "Who's Crane?" she mutters, but likely too quiet for Navi to hear, as Navi's likely already picked up on the path of wilted flowers through the underground tunnels. As they proceed, it gets darker and darker, and starts to angle downward slightly. Mondrian frowns when Cayde hesitates. /What's wrong/ she signs to him. /Sometimes police work is like this. You just have follow leads and hope they get you somewhere/. Some of the marauders had been heading for the cockpit, but fortunately for Ellari, when she'd angled up and away, those marauders had gotten sucked out. However, what isn't fortunate for Ellari is that she'll see The Amber Clad's sensors picking up another ship fast approaching her from behind. She'll recognize it's signature. The Veracity's Blade. The damn baron himself seems to have finally appeared. 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' Navi already knows who Crane is, so she doesn't say anything for the moment. Crane's identity is a complicated and confusing matter even to her, and she's known him for longer than anyone else here. "Looks like we're descending. Light's getting thin," she muses, looking around cautiously. Just because someone cared enough to leave them a trail doesn't mean Crane is the only one that's been down here... 

:'''{{#var:418|Jorn (418)}} has posed:''' Jorn will see the the other ship coming in. That's when Jorn will start to move toward the engine room. He has a plan. Along the way he'll grab whatever tool possible. The plan is simple. Tinker in the engine to somehow make it faster. Basically repair it, tune it up, or give it a bypass of some things that may slow the vehicle down. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' <<Wasn't near. Was talking to Jasper. Let me know where to meet you, cause I'm still trying to avoid the spaceport.>> Zetha replies, deciding to hunker down next to a tree and just wait for the doctor to give her a location. She'll spend that time typing something in her holopad. Technically, if Soren just happens to find the holopad and reads it. She didn't tell him. Not willingly anyway. 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     Ha, he finally shows himself does he? Or at least someone with his ship. She hails it. << "So the coward finally shows himself does he? Well, if you want your pathetic little clone, you had better come -get- him." >>     With that, Ellari guns the sublights as Jorn works his magic, hopefully giving them a bit of extra speed. But she doesn't push it -too- hard. She's heading back down toward the surface now, hoping the baron will follow. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     [I am not a police] Cayde points out to Mondrian. And isn't that what he's been doing the past several days already? It hasn't gotten him anywhere. And he still doesn't understand why they need to help solve the Mandalorians' political feuds... 

:'''{{#var:418|Jorn (418)}} has posed:''' <<Need any more repairs to get us out of here sooner?>> Jorn replies to Ellari from the ships comlink. The man can't see anything. He looks at his communicator. A few bad ideas forming. Although he will search his person for one of the brother's comlinks. A plan slowly brewing. Well, a couple of them. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Thankfully, Navi doesn't run into anyone or anything. However, as the light gets thinner and the air gets colder, she'll be able to see that there's a vague outline of something grey and vehicle shaped up ahead... Mondrian frowns at Cayde. /You're co-deputy. So, Jedi, police. Same thing, right?/ But then she spots the same thing Navi is seeing and starts hurrying ahead towards it. <You're going to hate me, but we need to meet at the gravball club. It's the only place where we can get a room with any real privacy.> The doctor replies. <And thank the light. Avoid the spaceport... I don't know what's going on, but it can't be anything good. Cayde didn't seem to be bothered by any of it, which makes me think he wasn't surprised. I'm going to have to talk to him about it later> The baron opens up a channel back to Ellari. <Ellari, Ellari. How I've missed you...> 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha reads that message twice and then sighs. <<Alright. I'll meet you there. I'm closer to it than the spaceport anyway I think...>> Though she's slightly worried that Jasper may have headed in that direction. But he also knows she runs with people who have gone there and she told him not to question her methods. So, she turns and heads towards the GravBall Club. She might wait for Soren to arrive before going inside though, and hopefully no one is inside that's going to give her a hard time. 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "Hey... I think there's a vehicle up here. Big and gray thing," Navi calls back to Cayde and Mondrian, moving closer to the object. She scans the floor between herself and the machine with her light, just to make sure there aren't any tripwires or buttons or anything; some criminal and terrorist types just /love/ to boobytrap their vehicles. 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     << "Have you now?" >> Ellari replies dryly. She then starts throttling away from the Blade, easily hovering right on the edge of its short-range sensors thanks to Jorn's engine tweaks.     << "Didn't know you had a way with ships. You get rid of the scum yet?" >> she replies to Jorn. << "The baron is onto us...where should we bait him to?" >> 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde shakes his head, but doesn't sign any more, as he draws his lightsaber to help light the way in this deep, dark tunnel. 

:'''{{#var:418|Jorn (418)}} has posed:''' <<Any place we can bury that ship?>> Jorn replies remembering what the Baron did in a jail cell. That's a sore spot. <<Maybe drop something explosive on his ship.>> he'll add. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' <Thank you. I know it's your least favorite place, but we need privacy. I'll try to keep it short> the doctor replies to Zetha. Ten minutes later, she's in front of the gravball club, and the doctor has arrived. He waves her down and after chatting with the bouncer briefly and paying him a few credits, gets them into the club... Mondrian jogs after Navi, following the light of the sabers. "Well, this looks promising," she says, examining it. "Wait... look!" she points at an emblem on the bottom the vessel. "... Arkanian Micro." She looks up at Navi and Cayde. "...the Arkanians!" Then Amber Clad pushes ahead, and the Veracity's Blade lags behind. However, the distance is not so great that the baron's ship can't at least fire off a few shots at the Amber Clad. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "It will be good to have a private room, Doctor." Zetha offers aloud once they're in each other's presence. She knows she never looks the part of being the type who venture into this club, and maybe on some levels that's actually a good thing. She walks close enough beside Soren that she'll slip the holopad she noted some of the finer details on into Soren's pocket and then gives him a wary smile. "I suppose I'll just follow you to wherever is best for us to talk." 

:'''{{#var:418|Jorn (418)}} has posed:''' The ship rustles and shakes a little as combat happens. The Mandalorian narrows his eyes under the helm. <Everything alright out there?> he asks and he feels the jostle and just braces just in case things will get worse. Though he will give a cursory glance at the engine room. 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     The ship jolts a bit as a few shots score the hull, but no serious damage is done. << "If you shoot us down, your precious clone might die. Is that a risk you're willing to take?" >> Ellari taunts him.     << "I'm fine." >> she replies to Jorn. << "I suppose we could find out if he'll follow us back to Kublop." >> She turns the controls and starts heading back down through the atmosphere. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde frowns at the emblem. How'd they get a ship down here, anyway? Unless it was very old... 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "Maybe this explains why those sleazy quacks haven't been around so much lately," Navi muses, studying the vessel. "There must be a bigger tunnel or portal they got this in through. And now I'm wondering if they're camped out on the ship or if there's some living arrangements for them down here. Let's take a quick look around." Which she immediately moves to do. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "Yeah..." the doctor says, his gaze scanning the crowd just before he starts heading for one of the private backrooms. "Right," he says to Zetha with a nod. He'll lead her to a small hearth room, and opening the door, gestures for her to go inside first before closing the doors behind him. He then goes to stand by the window, peering out of it with a distant look on his face. It's started to rain, and the sound of large raindrops hitting the window might feel calming to Zetha. The doctor then turns to Zetha. "You met him, didn't you?" he says, his tone tenuous. Sadly for Jorn, things do. That last marauder is still on Ellari's ship, and he's now found Jorn. "Wanna play?" he growls. He then laughs like a maniac and taking out twin blasters, opens fire on Jorn! Caine doesn't reply to Ellari's taunt. He presses down on the throttle harder, trying to close the gap between the two ships... Indeed. Navi and Cayde will be able to see that beyond the vehicle, is another set of winding tunnels - these are wider and taller than the ones they'd just come through. "See?" Mondrian says to Cayde. "This might have been a lot of work, but at least it's worth it. Can we get inside and pull the nav data off of it?" she looks over at Navi and then Cayde, glancing at their sabers. "If they're camped out on the ship, they're not there right now. My heat scanners aren't really turning up anything ..." she frowns. "Wait... I'm getting a heat signature from inside the vessel. It's really small but..." 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "I did, yes..." Zetha offers and then shrugs her shoulders. "I have no idea where Navi and Mondrian are by the way. Didn't find him in the Cantina, so I got a little...creative." The Twi'lek offers, looking over to the window watching the rain as it patters against the glass. "So I went a bit rogue. Met him on my own. Made a deal. Quite fascinating really. But once I make good on my end of the bargain...I'll have access to what we want." 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "Maybe, if they forgot to lock the hatch. I'm betting they didn't. We can check," Navi says, moving to inspect the boarding ramp and hatch. "We /might/ be able to cut our way in if the hatch isn't too thick." 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     "Jare'la..." Ellari mutters as the Blade begins to gain on her. She waits until he starts accelerating, then suddenly slows and pitches forward, turning her guns on her pursuer before continuing to descend back toward Kublop.     << "Jorn...get these damned pirates off of my ship..." >> 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde frowns when Mondrian mentions there is a small heat signature on the ship, so he tries to reach out with the Force and find out who or what it is, exactly. 

:'''{{#var:418|Jorn (418)}} has posed:''' Jorn sees a Marauder appear seemingly out of nowhere in the engine room. That makes Jorn do a sudden dodge, using the familiarity of the area as cover. Thankfully and somehow he has dodged it all. Using that same structure he aims and returns fire. The bounty hunter angry for a moment. Although he will happily take any com supplies off that marauder because using an enemy's radio is always a good thing. 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' "Are you kidding me?!" Volken's eye sight is back now and: Ship is gone. Zealot is gone. Marauders are gone. He's there by himself in a damaged area with Republic Security Forces looking to arrest him. He powers dow the vambraces and doesn't make a move, first clicking on his o his comm: <<Er'gi! Kass! Where th'hell are you!?>> Then he clears his throat and puts on his nice voice and pings Navi. <<..I might need a get out of jail card.>> Then he switches again and puts his rough voice on. Less mean sounding then when he was yelling for Kass as he rumbles, <<Ellari! Jorn! Wha'ts happening!?>> Then finally to the officers.: "...Oops?" 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' The doctor doesn't respond to Zetha's comment about Navi and Mondrian. He frowns when she says she got a little creative but otherwise doesn't comment. "Well, -if- is more like it. If you're able to make good on your end of the bargain." He stares out the window again, watching the rain fall. His jaw tightens. "I've been thinking..." he trails off. "I've been thinking that I'd like to go with you, Zetha." The Arkanians definitely hadn't forgotten to lock the latch, but it looks very sliceable, if Navi's feeling destructive. Mondrian seems to be in favor of the latter. She examines it. "You can cut through that." A pause. "Right?" Cayde will be able to sense that there's a creature inside the vessel. It's alive, but weak. And it's memory... is startlingly vivid for an ... animal. It remembers going to a certain lab... With a yelp, the marauder goes down. Is he dead? Who knows... Either way, the Veracity's Blade is damn near on top of the Amber Clad. Ellari opens fire but the shields on the baron's ship easily deflect the shots. <You can fight me all you like, Ellari. But you're not winning. Not this time> And he opens fire again, this time aiming at her ship's thrusters. Volken will get no response from either Er'gi or Kass. It may suddenly occur to him, that the one charming blue alien who'd schmoozed Ellari had possibly managed to convince the other Mandalorians to drink themselves into a stupor. The blonde male human standing in front of Volken is clutching his singed shoulder and scowling at the Mandalorian. There's a couple of other security officers behind him who don't look like they're interested in messing with Volken, but the blonde seems unintimidated. "Oops is right, dumbass." He glares at the Mandalorian. "Alright, well you know I hate Mandalorians but there's worse, so I'm giving you three minutes to tell me how this isn't your fault." 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "They'll definitely know we've been here, but yes. This lock shouldn't take a minute to slice," Navi replies, and proceeds to literally slice the lock mechanism open. Reaching through the small hole in the door, she touches the 'open' button for the hatch. "After you two." 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "No." Zetha says. "It's not an if. It's a when. You can like it or leave it. But I've been saying it since I came to you after I was threatened...you and yours don't really have another way in right now. Tried every angle. My angle is getting results without tiring me out or chasing down dead ends." She watches as he stares out the window, and when he mentions that he'd like to go with her, she raises a single eyebrow. "With me? With me where? If you mean wherever Jasper takes me, that's a good way to getting us both in a lot of trouble. Up to and likely including dead. You're going to have to trust me on this one, Doctor." 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     << "Tell me Caine, who wins if the clone dies?" >> Ellari taunts back at him, since he hadn't answered her question earlier. << "What does that accomplish for you, exactly? Other than millions of wasted credits?" >>     The ship is jarred again, but she keeps hover right at the edge of sensor range. However, she throttles harder, trying to get out of firing range as the port draws ever nearer. << "I have succeeded in drawing Caine out. We are returning to port now." >> she answers Volken. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde frowns pensively. Some sort of animal. It has been to a different lab, but is it the same lab the clone remembers? He enters the ship and immediately heads toward the cockpit, all the while trying to dig in the creature's memories for anything that might pinpoint a location. 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' Smells like a setup. Volken's eyes narrow. He already didn't like the guy. His gaze then falls on the officer. It's all very monolithic looking with his helmet on. "It's not my fault." Volken rumbles. The voice rolling out in about one to two seconds. He hardly needed three. But after a moment of deadpan silence, Volken sighs and rumbles, "Marauders attacked us! I was trying to fire at one that dropped a flashbang but he got away. I just hit you with a repulsor shot, vod. You're acting like I shot you with this?" Volken points at his back where the gigantic repeater blasters sit. "I didn't. You'll be fine. You were just knicked. It was ...self defense..." As Ellari answers him over the comm, he just narrows his eyes. If Er'gi wsa here he could at least use his jet pack but he's stuck down here now. <<Understood. Standby.>> he says to Ellari before turning towards the security forces. "There's a whole damn fire fight going on above our heads you know. Marauders, amiright?" 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "Sooo," Mondrian says, shoving her hands in her pockets. "How hard would it be for someone like me to get a light saber..." The door pops open easily once Navi cuts a hole and presses the open button for the latch. Once they're inside, Mondrian starts poking around. There isn't much to see from a surface level, but Navi will be privy to the feelings of distress coming from the creature whose mind Cayde is probing. It's locked away in here somewhere, hidden from sight... What Cayde sees isn't an exact match to the lab the clone had been in, but it seems highly likely that it is, just a different part of it. More importantly, the creature remembers how it got in, and also how it got out. It had somehow figured out how to open its cage, and found a way to the place where the Arkanians  had dumped the organic waste from their experimentation through the vents, and had survived by eating the carcasses of what would appear to be failed experiments until the hatch, apparently on some timer, had opened and deposited all of the rotting material into a hole in the ground. It had then flown out, over some kind of massive divide that looks thousands of meters deep, before being discovered by Zealot, who'd noticed the metal ring clamped around its foot and recognized it as one of the Arkanian's experiments. He'd then caught the bird, given it some food and water, then sailed on his boat through the marshland to a hole in the ground that led to this ship, and hidden the bird in a cage on this vessel... Weirdly, the CSF officer doesn't interrupt him, or tell him off. "Uh-huh," he says calmly. "Yeah, I know," he says when Volken mentions the firefight. "The only reason why they're getting away with all this mayhem is because for some damned reason, the co-deputies think they owe that one tiny pirate something. No kriffing idea why." The baron doesn't reply, again. Instead, he opens fire once more. Both the Blade and Amber Clad are nearing the spaceport, too... The doctor's expression hardens for a moment and his hazel eyes blaze with a fire that Zetha hasn't seen before. "And that's exactly what I said to you about this entire endeavor yet you insisted on it and I relented, because you're right, it is the only way. You're telling me your non-negotiable, and I'm letting you have it, I just don't know for absolute certain if it will work. But it's only fair that if I'm letting you have yours, you have to let me have mine. And this is it. I'm going with you. I've decided it's too dangerous for you to go it alone." 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha doesn't change her stance and she stares down the blaze in his eyes with a hardened stare in her own. "Oh don't give me that. Act like I twisted your arm. I gave you the truth. An outside perspective against what was going on. Decided to give you the advantage I had." She shifts her gaze back to the window to watch the rain for a second longer. "And who the kriff put a crown on your head saying you're the ruler of my life? I'm non-negotiable because I'm trying to keep everyone safe. Everyone. You don't get to stand there and decide what's too dangerous for me. I knew the risks when I told you my idea. You let me have it. So keep it that way and stand aside." 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' Navi lets Cayde go to work on the specimen he found. She chances to look at her comlink screen, notices a message from Volken, and tries to contact his comlink via direct voice communication. "Volken? Are you there? Sorry I missed your call. I'm pretty deep underground, and it might have blocked the signal," she says. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     A big chasm like that had to be visible from the air, and it had to be somewhere in the gorge. Short range scanners should be able to detect the topographical profile. Cayde straps himself into the pilot's seat and slices through the ship's authentication to access the controls. He begins to fire up the engines...hopefully Navi and Mondrian will get the idea... 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     Volken will probably be able to see the firefight happening above the spaceport now, as the Amber Clad rolls again to avoid the Blade's assault. Hopefully Kublop's own security would start helping out now. That is, if they -had- any.     Either way, she loops around again and returns fire toward the Veracity's Blade--fast but not much substance to it--just to keep him busy evading if nothing else. At some point, he'd have to wise up to the fact that this wasn't getting him much of anywhere. 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' "They what?! Is it just impossible to get on the same wavelength around here?!" bellows Volken. "So you can't do anything about this? -Fine-! You'd all just get in the way anyway!" He turns around, looking over the spaceport for something else. Anothe ship. Kassadays ship... <<I'm taking yoru ship, Kass! Since you can't be bothered to be helpful! I'll fly it myself!>> Volken turns, starting to stalk away if the officers will let him. He then just hears Navi and frowning, he switchs over towards her, <<These damn marauders are attacking us. Again! What's this about that crazy pirate having something on you and Cayde? Nevemrind if you can't do anything about it but I'm about to blow something up!>> 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "I'm not trying to be ruler of your life, I just care about you, dammit!" One of the doctor's hands closes into a fist. "Because light forbid that anyone do that, when prior to all this that's all you wanted, so badly. And when Thaarin couldn't do that, it cut you deep. Is that what you want, Zetha? For someone to care, but on -your- terms and when it's convenient for -you-? Well, I'm sorry but that just isn't how love works. You don't get to dictate how I feel, or sever the bond I have to you whenever you feel like it. I will always care, no matter what you say or do. And yes, I'm going to be selfish and say that for once in my life, I'd hoped that I could have someone who would let me care about them in the way I've always wanted to. Don't you realize that I'm trying to do the same thing you are? Keep everyone safe, including you? But fine, if you want it that way, then so be it. However, if I don't get to decide what's too dangerous for you, then you don't get to decide what's too dangerous for me." Then he turns around and goes out of the room. The doors close behind him. She can chase after him, or she can sit and be alone with her thoughts. Clearly, she'd touched a nerve, but he'd not specified which one, and the last thing he'd said might worry Zetha. It would seem he was so determined to go the lab himself, with or without Zetha... "Hey!" Mondrian suddenly runs over to Cayde and pushes the throttle back down. "Are you kriffing -crazy-? Where do you think you're taking this thing? We don't even have the exact coordinates of where the lab is! And even if we did, we can't just go charging there. They're probably on the lookout for us, or literally anyone from the Republic. We have the nav data now, we can go and -clandestinely- scout anytime we want. Then we figure out how to approach without them noticing, watch Zetha get in, monitor her remotely from nearby, and then we're game. We can figure out her exit strategy after." She looks around. "But first of all, we have to patch this place up. They can't know we were here. Otherwise, our strategy's toast." She goes to pick up the piece of metal Navi had carved out of the door earlier, then goes to tap the young Sephi girl on the shoulder. "Hey can you make sure Blondie doesn't try anything crazy? Thanks." The Republic security officer just smirks. "Yeah, not really. But you can." Surprisingly, he doesn't try to stop Volken. Then, a bit more quietly, he says, "In fact, I might even be willing to pay you..." He turns around to leave. Kass doesn't respond. Maybe it's for the best, anyway. The Blade dodges, evading Ellari's shot. They're so close to the spaceport now... But then, all of sudden, the baron's ship peels off and dives towards the Gorge, disappearing into the fog surrounding it... 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "Um... no? Bigger and meaner people than me have tried, and they all failed," Navi replies to Mondrian. "But I can talk to him and hope he's feeling like listening. And I have no idea how we're going to mend that hatch so it looks like it wasn't damaged." She heads forward to the cockpit. "So, where were you planning on going after you took off?" she asks Cayde. "And do you know how to get the ship out of this chamber? It's probably one of these bigger tunnels, but we have no idea where they go, and I'm not sure it's safe to find out." 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' "Pay?" Volken pauses in his movements towards commandeering Kass' ship. He slowly turns to look back in the direction of the departing officer and just looks at him assessingly. Finally: "Well now you're speaking my langauge..." 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' The line about Thaarin cuts Zetha, but she doesn't show it. Soren doesn't even seem to take a breath while berating her, and then he's gone. The doors shut and she's alone with her thoughts in a place she'd rather not be. So she leaves the room also. Not to chase him down, but to get out of the club as quickly as possible. Though that does put her hot on Soren's trail. Likely even past him because she's booking it for the doors out as fast as her legs can take her. Though once she's outside, she just stands there for a moment before shaking her head. She pulls out her commlink while walking away and types a message to Soren while she walks. <<Don't read what you find in your pockets until you're home or in your office. Somewhere that no other eyes can see. Then talk to me again after you've read it. Also, you're an asshole. But if I wanted to be protected by any asshole, I'm glad it's you. Talk soon.>> Then it's going to be trying to make her way back home, though whether it's the junkyard or the convent is yet to be decided in her brain. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     [The bird knows] Cayde argues, forgetting that Mondrian doesn't know the creature is a bird. However, this time he actually does listen to her, although begrudgingly. Now what all had she even needed him here for, again?     [Does not matter now] he replies to Navi, with a dejected expression. But since he doesn't get to fly the ship, he's not sure what else there is to do here. So he goes to find the cage where the avian thing is and starts to leave back the way they'd come. 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     "Dank farrik!" Ellari curses as Blade suddenly retreats. << "He's disappeared into the gorge." >> she communicates to Volken, before turning the Amber Clad back toward the port. << "I hope you took care of that 'flea'." >> 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Mondrian pauses, looking pensive. Then she shrugs. "Fair enough, makes sense." "Great work today, by the way. You should talk to Kurrnak. I think you could be good at police work, or even get into PI work if you want to work more independently. Oh hey, you know a guy too, right? Arsok Vons. He's super well networked, I hear. He could get you some really good clients," she rambles. "Anyway, don't worry about the hole. I've got it." She sticks the piece of metal Navi had carved out earlier, sticks it into the hole, and then takes out a small welding tool. Once she's welded the metal back into place, she takes out a tiny little device that when stuck to the wall of the vessel near the hole, projects a hyper-realistic hologram over the welded metal. Now, it's impossible to see that anything was ever cut into. Then she turns around, dusting her hands off, and looks to Cayde, who appears upset. "Bird? What--Oh," she says, noticing the cage. She starts to follow Cayde out of the vessel. "Now, what's got you so upset? I told you, we can scout the area near the lab later. Just gotta wait. Are you really so impatient...??" Soren doesn't respond. But Zetha will find this typical. He'd never really lost his temper with her like he had today, but she'd definitely seen him in one of his brooding silent moods before and normally he'd take about 48 hours to respond when he was in one of those moods. So who knew how long he'd take this time. Her commlink is going off, though. She's got some text transmissions from Wiis and of course, the boyfriend, asking if she's home right now with three heart emojis. The security officer turns around, his smirk widening. "Yeah? I thought so. We can talk." He holds out a small data chip towards Volken. "You can hit up this frequency, whenever you're ready." Then he turns to leave once more. 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' <<He got away and I think either he or some smeone helping him has some sort of Jedei like mind powrs. My mind was flooded with wild images just before the flea was able to get clear of me. I'm dealing with the security forces now.>> The annoyance is clear in Volken's tone. Acidic even. But there's not much more to it other then the facts. As to the chip? Yes. Yes he takes it. He pinches it between massive fingers and just eyes the smirking officer .. and then nods. "Sure thing. Boss...." 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "Impatient and frustrated, likely. Neither one of us was trained or mentored in police work. We stepped up because someone had to," Navi replies to Mondrian. "Master Rykard could tell you the whole story. It's kind of long. Also, thanks for the kind words, but I mostly got lucky today. I don't know if I want to stay with this line of work once I leave Tenoo, which I'm honestly looking forward to. I'm amazed there's anything left of Whatever Bend, given how badly it started out, and how much fell apart while we were away on Ilum." 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha winces when she sees the text from Wiis, and then smiles at the one from Crane. She'll text Wiis, <<Had some business to take care of. On my way home now. Whatever it is. I didn't do it this time!>> and then Crane will get <<I'm heading back to the junkyard now. Is that where home is? See you soon!>> Before that makes up her mind and she heads towards the junkyard - likely breaking into a run since Wiis wants her home yesterday. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Once they've exited the vessel, Cayde lets the bird out of the cage, but instead of flying off, it follows him like an obedient dog.     [Nothing] he replies to her question, although he still looks rather disappointed. A shake of his head at the mention of Vons. [He does not like me] he tells her. 
}}

Police Work

2025-12-29T06:47:37Z

Andromeda: Created page with "{{Log Header |Date of Scene=2025-11-23 |Cast of Characters=159, 261, 143, 296, 321, 444, 418 |pretty=yes }} {{Poses |Poses=:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' A few weeks have passed since those from the colony had interacted with the Mandalorians, having failed at negotiating a resolution that would suit both the doctor's needs and what the Mandalorians would have preferred. Afterward, it had been decided that leaving them alone for the time being would be fo..."

{{Log Header
|Date of Scene=2025-11-23
|Cast of Characters=159, 261, 143, 296, 321, 444, 418
|pretty=yes
}}
{{Poses
|Poses=:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' A few weeks have passed since those from the colony had interacted with the Mandalorians, having failed at negotiating a resolution that would suit both the doctor's needs and what the Mandalorians would have preferred. Afterward, it had been decided that leaving them alone for the time being would be for the best, while the doctor tended to other more urgent medical needs within the colony (winter was approaching, seasonal sickness appeared to be affecting many of the colonists) and the Republic agent from the CSF was in transit from Coruscant. Meanwhile, they'd continued searching for 'Jasper's' hideout, however, without much luck. However, just last night, the female CSF forensic analyst, Maren Mondrian had arrived and a course of action had been decided upon. With Cayde and perhaps Navi's assistance (if she decided to lend it), they would host a private conversation with the supposed clone remotely using telepathy. The group would be on the tram approaching the Kublop Springs spaceport, currently, but neither Thaarin or the doctor would have made it clear yet whether the Mandalorians were going to be informed about this... interrogation session. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Meanwhile, aboard the Amber Clad, Kasseady is making it quite known to everyone his distaste for the whole situation and the need to leave the spaceport to start searching for Caine on their own. "I don't like it here," he says vehemently. "We're fowl in open water, surrounded by our sworn enemies. I don't trust that boy, Volken. And you don't have to like me, but you must ask yourself, why are you associating with a child sorcerer who reads minds but cannot control his abilities??" 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "We should tell the Mandalorians what we're doing," Navi says firmly. "Given the way subjects of telepathic conversations tend to react and behave, it will likely be clear that /something/ is happening, and with Cayde's reputation with telepathy in the mix, I have no doubt they will realize just what it is. Going behind their backs is likely to be terribly damaging to our relations with them, and those aren't that good as it is." 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde is beginning to get rather frustrated with this business of trying to find the Arkanians' lab. Seriously, Aklyrr isn't even large enough to be considered a town, how hard could it be to find? Honestly, he is on the verge of just, going door to door of the entire place for...however long it takes.     He doesn't comment on Navi's suggestion, his gaze directed out the window of the tram as it approaches the station. 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     Ellari can't help but scoff loudly at Kasseady's uneasiness. So dramatic. "'Surrounded'? There's what, four of them? Among a bunch of untrained simpletons." But then he starts going on more specifically about the Foundling boy with mind powers. "Ohh, I see. It's the foundling you're afraid of, is it? Never imagined I'd see the day a Von'egel would become so terrified of a child." she remarks, smirking. 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' "because I'm such a nice guy full of sparkles ad star-beams." responds Volken to Kassady's complaints without even looking over to him. He quiets to let Ellari tear into Kassady for a bit. Always a treat to listen to that, but he otherwise busies himself by cleaning his knuckle dusters. Once Ellari finishes he rumbles, "We're far from Mandalore and might very well need all th'help we can get if they come stomping in looking for the Saber. The boy's frustrating but his companion, Navi, can handle him and so can I. If you got a better idea.....well I would say I'm all ears but yer great ideas have landed you in this situation in the first place so maybe just be quiet for now nad wait until you can actually help." 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Thaarin's eyes narrow a bit at Navi, but he doesn't seem angry. "I wasn't aware we were actively trying to forge a genuine allyship with them," he says. "and I'm sorry, but I must disagree. The Mandalorians are not to be trusted. They came here with the intent of using Cayde for their own political advancement and have done nothing other than cause trouble since they've arrived. We should not let ourselves become intimidated by them, or what they will threaten to do to us. From what I've observed, Ellari is the northern most point of their supposed trifecta of power and Jorn and Volken are just dejarik pieces." As for the doctor, he doesn't say anything. He seems to be caught in the middle, and clearly not having made up his mind about the matter yet. He glances to Navi, then to Thaarin, then to Cayde. "Well, why don't we let Cayde make the executive decision? He's known Volken for the longest amount of time, I think, and he's the former Marshal's Padawan." "Your ego is unbecoming," Kasseady snarls, pointing an accusing finger at Ellari. "Even I know that mind tricks, coming from a child, are the most dangerous kind. Besides, the Republic could call RDC here in an instant if they wanted to. Plus, there's a Jedi outpost on Elphrona, barely a single hyperjump away." "-You-?? And that, what, 18 year old girl?? You fools!" he scoffs. "As if. I read the news here, unlike you di'kut. The boy disappeared, and upon finally discovering him three days later, he had reduced a family of five? Six? To blubbering messes. Yes. It would appear, that both of you have him perfectly handled." While Cayde may be ruminating on a response, the doctor sends a message to Zetha. <I'm heading up to Kublop with several others and will be there in a little bit. There's someone here I'd like you to meet, someone from Coruscant that might be able to help you flag down Jasper a bit easier. See you at the spaceport soon?> 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "I'm sorry, Thaarin, but I must completely disagree with you. I know some of them, and have worked with Volken in the past. You've barely met them," Navi says. "Volken has more influence than you realize, and he is probably the most ethical of them, even if his ethics may seem crude to more civilized people. He can absolutely be trusted to do what he says, whether it's holding your hand to help you across a busy street or putting a blasterbolt between your eyes. If you deal squarely with him, he will absolutely do the same with you. But if you go behind his back, all bets are off. The only thing that can be relied upon is that you will not like how it ends." "And politics have nothing to do with it; it's basic ethics. The more they trust us, the less likely they are to wander off on their own and cause trouble." "Besides, the clone will hardly sit still and quiet once someone makes telepathic contact with him... not if what I've seen of his prior behavior is any indication. He will probably jump up, pace, maybe jump around, and talk, a lot, to empty air. There also might be some screaming involved. Volken has seen Cayde's handiwork, and he'll know what's happening, and who is behind it." 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha is at the junkyard, having no idea who is arguing what where because she's decidedly staying somewhat out of the picture for the moment. She's been poking around here and there asking about 'Jasper' in various establishments that she feels comfortable asking about him in. Descriptive, but not name dropping. Have you seen a Mando wearing all black and looking shady as all get out? No? Cool. In the interim? She's working on the ship. Being careful to not wholly mess with the little spot that's been put together for when Cayde needs a place to lay his turmoil'd head. When the message from the doctor comes through, she'll send a quick reply. <Alright. I'm currently at the junkyard. Do you want me to meet you anywhere particular?> 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde continues to stare out the window, that is until the tram starts to slow to a stop as it nears the station. At that point, he gets up and starts to disembark. If he'd heard any of the things said about him, he hasn't reacted. 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     Oh, how much Ellari wants to just shoot Kass in the face right now. But they need him--alive, if they want to find Caine. "Such dramatic drivel." she answers scathingly. "If the consequences had been more permanent than a day, I am sure we would have heard about it. And I'm sure the boy wouldn't be -here- any more."     "And Volken has a point. If anyone else does come here looking for the Darksaber, we would be wise to accept them as allies in such a conflict. What do you know of the Jedi, anyway?" she challenges. "Have you ever actually gotten to -know- any of them, as Volken has?" 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' "The massive Mando slowly places his knuckle dusters back on. He clienches his fist, triggering them, and a spark of electricty cracks ou loudly, briefly wrapping aorund his enormous hand, just as Kassady finishes. An act of intimidation? Well maybe. But he makes it look good especially as he's not even looking his way at first and then simply pointing a big finger at him. "You talk to much." He finally lifts his hand in that direction and then points a sausage dwarfing finger at the noble mando. "Say something useful or be quiet." He then, finally, cuts his gaze towards Ellari, "Don't underestimate the boy. A foundling he may be but also one that can read minds and is trained to use a weapon that can cut anything but beskar in half. Not thinking he can be dangerous is the worst move. " He's finally had enough and he rises to start to make his way back towards where ever Er'gi is hiding, adding, "The -point- is that while we can work with them all we should. Especialy as we have mutual problems. Like this clone." 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' The tall blue man folds his arms. "You haven't won me over, Deputy. I'm going to assume the time you worked with him was back -before- Ellari was pulling all the strings. You say that now, but I'm 90 percent certain that when push comes to shove, he'll do what's good for himself and put everyone and everything else aside. You already saw it in play, when Cayde refused to sell the cortosis to him. If he really cared about Cayde, he wouldn't have made such an unhinged fuss about it. Which in turn was what caused Cayde having run off and lost control of his abilities, which caused harm to several civilians who had no involvement in the crisis at all. It's their fault, really. Who else could be blamed in that situation?" When the tram slows to a stop, he gets up and exits."Besides, what are you going to do if they don't want Cayde or you using your abilities on the clone? If they don't want us to, they're going to react poorly to us even asking, so in that situation, the outcome would be the same as if we'd just not told them at all." Then he gets up. "I'm going to provide a diversion," he says, and then exits the tram ahead of Navi. The doctor sighs, and follows Cayde, reaching out to grab the young padawan by the arm. "Cayde, it's your decision. Do we tell the Mandalorians we're coming, or not?" Zetha won't receive a response from the doctor, but she'll probably spot him from a distance as the tram from Aklyrr Bend pulls up. It's hard to miss, as a chime that's heard all around the spaceport goes off whenever the tram arrives. "Shut up," Kasseady hisses at Ellari, "You don't know what you're talking about--" The twin baron leans away from Volken, brows furrowed angrily, backing away. But when Volken says not to underestimate Cayde, he splutters. "See!? Even Volken agrees!" Er'gi is in a sour mood, but Volken will be able to approach him, at least. "Tell me good news, vod. We've been here for weeks and still, no sign of the other baron...! Haar'chaak!" 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde stops and looks over at Soren, a brow going up. Wait, why was it only his decision? Had they all agreed on it already?     [...me] he asks, looking uncertain. 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     "I didn't say he couldn't be dangerous. Of course he can, any Jedi can." Ellari replies. "But has he actually attacked any of you? Injured any of you? Shown any sort of aggressive or hostile behavior whatsoever?" she pauses, as if waiting for a response. "No?"     "But yes, I agree that we should work with them as long as it is possible, while interests happen to align." 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' The tram arriving means the doctor is likely arriving as well. So Zetha decides, without receiving a message back, that she should make her way to the tram station to greet him and his guest upon arrival. Or as close to their arrival as she manages once she's nearing the tram station. Splotched with grease that's streaked from sweat and wearing a tank top, jacket tied around her waist and her trusty cargo pants. Which have seen some better days, for sure. 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "I didn't really expect to, Thaarin. You may be the smartest person in the room most of the time, but there are definitely exceptions," Navi replies. "I also don't agree with your assessment of the beskar situation, either. Ever since you started dating half the colony, you've gotten more and more erratic. Especially when it comes to ethical judgements." "And no, I'm /not/ jealous. No offense, but you're not my type. But it hurts me deeply to watch a friend coming apart." 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' "A person can be dangerous without intending harm or being as direct as a drunken Mandalorian in Sundari. He's made certain choices that have led to problems and has abilities he can't always control. That's what you have to watch for." Volken taps his forhead as he speaks, addressing Ellari first, "So be on your guard and be watchful. Beyond that we can count on the girl, Navi, to help direct him and him to not act dishonorably." He gives Kass a final glare and then looks at Er'gi. And just shrugs. "Well you might be able to punch or shoot something soon so that should help!" 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Thaarin doesn't dignify Navi with an answer. He's heading straight for the Amber Clad, and is pinging Ellari, signaling his arrival and inviting her to drinks. He also lets her know that all the others are also welcome to join. "Yes," The doctor says. "Navi and Thaarin ... are having a conflict of interest," he says, glancing over at Thaarin as he leaves. "And I'm not going to be the one to decide, so I think the decision should fall to you." He turns to Navi. "If Cayde decides not to tell the Mandalorians, you don't have to participate. Zetha should be here shortly..." And just as the doctor has mentioned Zetha, the young Twi'lek appears. "Zetha," he greets warmly, his eyes lighting up just a little. "There's someone here I want you to meet," he adds. "She's going to be a tremendous help." He motions to a young blonde woman wearing cargo pants and tight fitting short sleeved crop, who's just getting off the tram. "This is Maren Mondrian," he says, "Forensic analyst with the CSF." The woman nods at Zetha and extends a hand. "Nice to meet you. You must be Zetha." Er'gi's mood doesn't seem to lift, unfortunately. "But is it going to be productive..." 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde frowns pensively. But if the two of them didn't agree, who could stop the one who wanted to tell them? [But they will tell anyway] he points out. 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     This seems to draw some concern from Ellari, actually. She frowns. "What do you mean, vod?" she asks. "What problems?"     Then her commlink goes off, and she checks the messages from Thaarin. "Thaarin has invited us to drinks. Would you care to join him?" 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' "What is this? You're like my kid brother." respons Volken to Er'gi's sourness. "Hitting people is -always- productive." At Ellari's comments, he turns and then says towards Er'gi. "You see? You can hit him if you want." He then turns back to Ellari, "The boy's telepathic gifts are strong. Too strong for his age, I wager. He loses focus. Loses awareness of where he is. Is slow to share what he knows with others. And, from what I understand, is not entirely gentle with his abilities. A blunt hammer when the skill of a surgeon is required. Yet he has strong convictions. His peers. Their code. They mean a lot. If his mind is set on an action it's hard to get him to divert and adjust if it's counter to what he's been taught, but if he is -guided-.... If there's trust.." Volken shrugs at that, as if saying the rest is obvious. "Let's go then." 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "Hey Doctor Cassias..." Zetha offers and then she smiles over at the woman who she is introduced to. As that hand is offered, Zetha takes it to shake semi-firmly. "Yeah, that's me. It's nice to meet you also." She offers and she's going to ignore whatever tension seems to be in the air at this time, especially since as she was arriving Thaarin had left. So she gives a smile to both Navi and Cayde. "Hey you two, good to see you both again." 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' Navi watches Thaarin go, regretfully. "Conflict of ethics is more accurate, Doctor," she says, before glancing to Cayde. "You know where I stand on this. But you also need to ask yourself what Volken would say if he finds out... and we both know he /will/ find out. What we want to do isn't something that will be quiet or subtle." "If you decide to say nothing, I won't tell them. But I also won't be involved with the interrogation. And no, I'm not trying to guilt you into the choice I prefer. I just want you to know what you're getting into." She smiles at Zetha, although it is a bit restrained. "Hello again, Zetha. I may say the same of you." 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "Alright, that seems decided then," the doctor says, "we can tell them --" he glances at Thaarin who's still making a beeline for the Amber Clad. He arches a brow. "If they're still there when we arrive to tell them." He sighs, looking somewhat defeated. Maren nods at Zetha. She seems all business, no play. "The doctor here said I could help you flag down a certain person of interest," she says. "Care to debrief me?" The doctor then turns to Navi. "You're free to stay here and help with the interrogation if it happens," he says, "or, you can help Zetha and Mondrian roam the town to find out the best place to draw 'Jasper's' attention." Er'gi shrugs. "I'm tired of hitting brick walls that don't collapse, vod," he says to Volken. "But what's this talk of drinks? Perhaps that will help my mood..." He gets up to follow Volken when he says they should go. 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' "Er'gi..." Volken switches to pure Man'doa now and reaches forward and down to rest his massive hands onto Er'gi's shouldrs to steady him for a moment and pause him. "Listen to yourself, vod. You arrived here to get the cortosis. You uncovered the presence of Caine in the process of doign so -and- bore witness to him being outed as a clone. Something nobody else could have known. You were part of thos events. Yes you lost the cortosis in the process but we gained greater knowlege. We learned that some sort of grave conspiracy is happening. Someone is cloning our nobles. -That- isn't a brick wall vod. That's a step onto a long road that's leading to something very dire and you're first in line to witness it." So it's not -exactly- upbeat but his point should be clear. "A moment of set back here and there isn't the end in all of this. Believe me, -I- am more impatient than -you- .. remember?" Voken arcs an eyebrow at Er'gi as if to ask 'who do you think you're speaking with here. He's, supposedly, the wild berserker of the bunch. "C'mon.." he rumbles while turning and grabbing his helmet to leave the ship. Could be time for some berserking. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde listens to Navi's promises, but he isn't sure he can be fully confident in her words. So he doesn't stop Soren when the doctor seems to accept the decision to tell them anyway. 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     "Heh, I would be inclined to agree, whether with fists or with blaster bolts." Ellari adds.     Her lips press into a thin line at Volken's explanation. "Hmph. I see. Well, in that case it is even more important that we maintain a productive and mutually beneficial relationship with them as much as possible."     With that, she replies to Thaarin's message. << "Thank you for the invitation. Where are we headed?" >> she asks, as she starts to head out of the ship. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "I know his name as Jasper... I'm beginning to suspect that may not be his actual name. He's a Mandalorian who wears black armor. Tall, slim...hides in the shadows a lot..." Zetha begins. "I believe he might be the key to helping us find a certain laboratory that's been doing some dirty business. And if I can get to Jasper then I can likely be the in needed to find out where this place is..." Which is the only debriefing she knows to give. 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "I'll take that as a yes, Cayde. Just give me a moment to contact Volken," Navi says, taking out her comlink and opening a channel to the giant Mandalorian. <Hello again, Volken. May I ask sommething of you?> she sends over the comlink. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Er'gi sighs. "I suppose," he says, "but this doesn't change the fact that I do need a drink. Badly. Perhaps several pints. We're in deep vod, with no clear way out..." Thaarin cheerfully suggests a cantina on the far side of town. Perhaps Ellari will feel suspicious of that choice, but he offers to pay for everyone's first rounds... Mondrian looks slightly unimpressed. "That's... all you have on him?" Then she shrugs. "Alright, well, that's fine. I think we should head for the local cantina, and see if anyone there has seen him around. You live here, so you know where all the gossip goes down.. right?" 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' <H'lo there.> Volken's voice is cheerful sounding as it responds back to Navi. His helmet is back on now but he's pausing to let the others move ahead of him towards the indicated cantina. Treating this as private business for the moment. <What can I do for you? More good office,r bad officer?> 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde...does not give Navi a moment. Well anyway, they have to find the man first. Even as they approach the ship, he has already begun to search for the clone's presence. He has to be on board that ship, right? And somewhere in his memories, he has to know where he came from... 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     Ellari definitely thinks Thaarin is up to something with this, but the best way to find out about it was to oblige him and let him think he has the upper hand. "Let's go then." she says, and starts heading toward the designated meeting place. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "Uhm..." Zetha begins before her gaze shifts to look at the ground. "I mean I would suspect the cantina...but...I don't really know." Is finally said before she looks back up and over towards Navi and Cayde. A curiosity about what they're up to, but she remains quiet never the less. "First time I met him was at this club place...second time was at the cantina...so...I would assume if anyone has seen him it'd be there but... from what I've been able to poke from people is he hasn't been seen. Or if he has, no one's telling." 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' <That would probably be more fun, actually. We want to question the clone, telepathically. We need not be there in person. Cayde would be doing the hard parts, but I would be along to keep things as close to ethical as possible, and the doctor would be involved to ensure the right questions were asked. And we would share our findings, just in case anything we discover would be of use to you and your companions.> <Going by what we observed in our last encounter with the clone, its mental degradation hints that we need to question it as soon as possible.> Navi replies via the comlink. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' The doctor sighs a somewhat exasperated sigh as Cayde doesn't wait and starts heading for the Amber Clad. He notices the Mandalorians heading away from it and seems slightly relieved. Regardless, he follows Cayde. Cayde will immediately be able to tell that yes, the clone is on Ellari's ship, locked away in the brig. His state of mind has deteriorated since he'd last seen him, and it seems that he has fallen out of touch with reality somewhat. "Well, obviously," the blonde says a bit harshly. "That's what we're here to do to. Get his attention, and then Find the bastard, eventually. So let's get to it. Where's this cantina you're talking about?" And she's already walking rapidly towards the exit of the spaceport. The other Mandalorians follow Ellari out of the Amber Clad and towards wherever she's leading them, although Kasseady still seems rather put out. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Oh, yes...there he is. Upon locating the clone, Cayde tries to enter his mind again, this time with a bit more care. Just to assess his mental status in more detail for the moment. It will become clear to the others that he has already begun, as that signature vacant expression has appeared. 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     As they are heading toward the cantina, Ellari notices Volken talking to someone on his comm. "Who are you speaking to?" she inquires of him as they head for the edge of town. 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' With the other Mandalorians on edge...they were right to come to him with this. Even so, Volken frowns mildly and then finally rumbles, ironically repeating his words to Ellari, <This needs a surgeon's scalpel, not a hammer. Are you sure Cayde can pull it off without making things worse? The clone reacted badly when Cayde tried to get into its mind before. Plus, what's this about some family he jacked up mentally? That just a rumor? Are you -sure- he can do it?> Granted it's not a no. But she needs to give him a little more context. 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' <It is a rumor, and it isn't. That situation was extremely complex... Cayde lost control of his powers because he was extremely ill. He had a severe, nearly fatal allergic reaction to the plants in the area, as he is allergic to nearly all of the flora and fauna on Tenoo. Especially the flora, and the food. We found him shortly after. Today he is in his right mind and not suffering from any allergic episodes.> Navi explains. <Anyway, I'm along to ensure that we do have a scalpel, and not just a hammer. I'm confident that we can do our questioning without doing anyone any harm. But I also wanted to make sure that we kept you all in the loop, and you are the most level-headed of your party.> 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha's eyes narrow a little and then she shakes her head. "You don't have to be such a jerk about it. You just got here, we just met, and you don't know anything about me or this other person. And I'm not keen to give someone who's being such an egg sucker the history of me. You want to help, fine, help. But don't be an ass about it." Then she walks out of the spaceport herself and towards the cantina in question. Muttering something else under her breath, but in her native tongue. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' The doctor sighs. "You should probably tell Volken that Cayde's already at it..." Well, it's not good. He seems to have lost track of time, and hasn't been eating, despite the food that the other Mandalorians have been providing him for the past few days. However, when Cayde enters his mind, he stirs from his delirium a bit and a sense of curiosity arises. He's aware Cayde is poking around, but isn't sure what the sensation is... Mondrian seems surprised when Zetha appears offended. "Oh," she says, "Sorry. I tend to forget manners when I'm working," she says. She rubs her head, looking apologetic, and slows down, letting Zetha take the lead. "You're the local here... I should be letting you take point." 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' Volken is silent. Dead silence on the other end of the call. Navi can practically hear the gears churning. The engine idling. Then: <Alright. Thanks for sharing that with me... I'll cover for you. The truth is - we don't have any other leads on figuring out who is cloning him. Is it a targetted attempt to manipulate Mandalore? Or something else all together? So yeah. If you can pull some clues right from his mind then that'll help all of us. You and us. Don't worry about Ellari, Kass, Jorn or Er'gi. I'll deal with them. I suspect only Kass will pitch a fit. Who cares what he thinks at this point.> With that he turns and starts for the cantina. though he leaves his comm link on. 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' <The doctor and Master Windu seem to believe that some amount of cloning may be taking place right here on Tenoo... there are some unethical Arkanian scientists that have been very busy with medical experiments near the Vergence in The Gorge. Much of the wildlife near the Vergence is much larger than usual and unusually healthy, which suggests that it enhances the life forces of the local flora and fauna.> <These Arkanians have been yammering nonstop for a month or more about some impressive breakthroughs, and they had a lab near the Vergence for a while. It's no longer there. I suspect they have become worried about being discovered and have moved headquarters to avoid scrutiny from the Jedi and the Republic security agencies.> <It is equally possible that there are other cloning facilities out there in the galaxy, and that this one is unrelated to your particular cloning woes. Anyway, thank you for helping us.> She puts away her datapad, watching the interaction between Mondrian and Zetha. "Maybe I'd better go with them... they look like they're already at each other's throats," she murmurs. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha glances over to Mondrian and then nods once. Then she sort of relaxes. "It's fine really. I haven't been the most social most of my life here so I don't know how things really work. And I've only met this guy twice...and I blew him off the second time...now I'm trying to cash in the offer he gave me that night." She sort of explains that a bit further while leading the way towards the cantina where she had last seen Jasper. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde frowns, focusing on the clone's mind. This certainly wasn't good. He tries to create a peaceful mindscape, like the one he'd used with Zetha before. A sense of calm, a place of security. Maybe somewhere familiar... 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Kublop is a small town, so Ellari and the other Mandalorians reach the cantina Thaarin had suggested they meet at within fifteen minutes. He's waiting outside for them, grinning. He then approaches Ellari and taking her hand, kisses it. "It's been a hot minute~ How are you?" He doesn't offer a greeting to Volken, Kass, or Er'gi. At least not right away. The doctor nods at Navi, when she says that she should probably accompany Zetha and Mondrian. Then he turns to Cayde, and tapping the young padawan on the shoulder, says quietly, "How goes it?" The peaceful mindscape seems to soothe the young clone to a degree. Cayde will be able to sense him becoming more aware of his surroundings and reality, now. He's wondering who it is that's creating the mindscape. "Yeah..." Mondrian continues. "Me either, honestly. I work, basically, and that's all. Everything else..." she trails off. "Well, let's just say it makes up less than ten percent of my time. Maybe twenty on a good day." Once they're within sight of the cantina, she points to it with a nod. "This the spot?" 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' <A clone of one of our barons ends up on this planet after a wild goose chase, where there happens to be folk doing cloning experiments. Seems unlikely it's not related.> remarks Volken <Plus there's how desperate he was to see the Dark Sabre. Caine's always had some nonsense in him about that thing. Makes me wonder just how long it's been the clone we've been dealing with. Anyway, keep me posted the instnat something happens. Especially as the guy's in Ellari's ship...> With that, Volken steps into the Cantina and moves to find the others. This is about to get interesting... Because he held back to talk to Navi, he's last to arrive and does so just in time to see Thaarin putting the moves on Ellari and the lack of acknowledgement of him. So naturally: "This dump the place?" 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde takes a bit of a risk and shows himself within the mindscape, standing among lush green grass that covers peaceful rolling hills that look somewhat like the ones near Aklyrr. <My name is Cayde...but, who are you?> he asks, a genuine question. <Not Caine...he is too old>     The padawan doesn't answer nor respond to Soren's question, as he is focused on gently prodding the information they need out of the clone. 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     Ellari accepts the kiss. "I've been about as well as can be expected, I suppose." she tells Thaarin, then turns to Volken and Er'gi. "You've met my companions, Volken and Er'gi, correct?" 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' Navi follows Mondrian and Zetha. Things seem peaceful at the moment, but that could change very quickly. "It's been a while, Mondrian," she says softly to the agent. The last time they'd spoken had been at a fancy party on Coruscant. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "Yeah. I get it." Zetha says this and then nods her head. "This is the spot." She confirms and then opens the door to let Mondrian and Navi in. "Be easy to act like we don't know each other. I'm almost wondering if, suddenly, he's going to just be here... especially since I've been poking around about him." She offers low and then quick steps into the place, giving it a curious glance around. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Thaarin nods to Eri'gi, then looks to Volken, and laughs, lighting up a charming smile. He doesn't let go of Ellari's hand, though. "Volken," He says warmly, "It's good to see you, too. I hope you're looking forward to a pint of whatever you'd like... on me." The clone hesitates. He doesn't seem to know his name, not really. He'd been assigned an ID - Zero One. But he didn't quite like that name. ".... Jasper," he finally says after a moment of thought. Mondrian's gaze becomes slightly shifty. "Yeah..." she trails. "I hope you've been okay." Mondrian nods. "Do whatever you need to do," she says. "I guess me and Navi can investigate some of the patrons, and see if they've seen him around." And she starts heading for the back of the cantina. Zetha might want to head to the bar - she'll at least recognize the bartender. She's a relative of the owner of Hap's and she knows mostly everyone in Kublop by name. 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' Volken slowly looms forward. Hulking in like some sort of aged Dowutin. Quite so as he is as large as one save with the armor and physique of a collection of bodybuilding Mandalorians. Leans in like a tree towards Ellari, almost possessively. Maybe a little -too- close...as if they were a couple. If his helmet wasn't on, you might think he was going for a kiss... But he seems to be sending a deliberate message of intent towards Thaerin by doing so, especially as he lowers his voice and rumbles in Mand'oa, so soft it's almost a whisper -- as if whispering something intentional and oh so personal and private just for her.... <<....They're interrogating the clone on board your ship with the boy's telepathy....>> How romantic. "Of course." he finally rumbles, back in Basic again towars Thaerin. "O'course." he repeats. Grinning ear to ear under that helmet. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde sides down cross-legged in the grass and begins picking at it idly. <Where are you from Jasper?> he asks. <I'm from Coruscant> he starts out with that. It would seem innocuous enough, right? All the while, he starts trying to peer into the clone's memories, as far back as he can. All the way from the start of his life... 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     "Thank you for treating us, Thaarin." Ellari says with a smile. "It's always a pleasure to have you around."     She arches a brow at Volken leaning in to tell her just that. Was he jealous? "Hm, I see." she replies, still in Basic. "Well, let's hope for some results this time. Productive ones, that is." 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "I've been well enough, all things considered. This colony initiative has been a shifty nightmare before it ever left port, and we've had a job holding the place together," Navi replies to Mondrian. "I started out as an assistant to Master Windu in the medical labs, and put on a badge a month or so ago when the prior Marshal was wounded in the line of duty and bedridden for a while. At least before that I found time to share a dance with someone." A gentle poke in the feelings. She had asked Mondrian to dance on Coruscant and had been rather brutally turned down. She definitely hasn't forgotten, even if she has forgiven. "Good luck, Zetha. Yell or send a comlink message if you need anything," she says softly to Zetha, before moving to go with Mondrian. "It's good to have you. The woman you replaced was an extremely poor fit for this place." 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha takes a slow breath and then approaches the bar and slides into a seat that has empty seats on either side. She gives a grim smile to the bartender. "I'll take a blue milk cooler.." She offers while still scanning what she can see of the cantina. Particularly for any shadowy outlines of a man in black beskar. "...and maybe a little information that you may have on a certain Mandalorian I was last seen here with." Of course she keeps her voice low enough to hear but maybe not be overheard. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Thaarin laughs, leaning away from Volken a bit and seeming unintimidated. "Ah, if only you understood personal space a bit better," he says, "then perhaps you could increase your already effervescent charm," he says. Then he takes Ellari's hand and guides her into the cantina, smiling. "You're welcome," he says to the female Mandalorian. The clone pauses. "... I... I don't know, actually. I wasn't born naturally, that's for sure. My first memories involving waking in some kind of artificial amniotic fluid." The clone isn't lying. He'd been birth in some kind of massive glass chamber, full of fluid. The room is immaculate, whitewashed, and has no windows... "Oh," Mondrian says to Navi. "Um. Sorry," she offers, seeming to not know what else to say. She doesn't look at Navi when she says that she'd found someone to dance with, instead, changes the subject. "Look. That guy sitting over there," she says, pointing a rather withdrawn Duros sitting near the window in the back. "Maybe he knows something." "Okay, one blue milk cooler coming up for Zetha," the Latero female says, multiple arms rotating as she moves to make the drink. She pauses. "Ohhh that guy." She leans closer to Zetha. "What about him?" 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' Ah, Volken was perhaps a little -too- subtle apparently. That just flew right over Ellari's head and Thaerin's as well apparently. Truthfully he leaned in liek that as an excuse, true enough, but he also didn't want Er'gi and Kass to hear about the interrogation and possibly make a scene. Coming in close to whisper might have been a touch theatric and for Thaeerin's benefit but -- well we can't all be quick on the uptake. "Mmm..." he rumbles, "I understand personal space just fine, thankyouverymuch. When my fist meets someones skull, made great use of it." With that, he follows them into the cantina and just waits for further word from Navi. 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "Don't worry about it. All that about how what doesn't kill you makes you stronger probably applies. But I'll be very glad to go home, too," Navi observes wryly. As Mondrian points out the Duros, Navi starts his way, nodding. "Pardon me, sir. We were looking for a Mandalorian... roughly average build, slightly thin, black armor. We were wondering if perhaps you've seen this individual?" 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha smirks, glances left and right and then leans in herself. "Been hoping to run into him again, but he's an elusive creature. You wouldn't happen to know anything about where he might be or...even better...a way to contact him? Been hoping to cross his path but it's not been easy." Course, not a lot of things are easy and thus she's putting it out there. Might be that if nothing else she could leave a message with the Latero to pass along should she see him again. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''      Cayde replies, when Jasper tells him he wasn't born naturally. <When you first go out> he asks. <Where was it?> he prods further, attempting to dig more, sifting forward bit by bit. At some point, the clone had to have left the lab. Gone places. 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     "It wasn't a matter of personal space," Ellari corrects Thaarin, sitting down at the bar. "There are simply -some- topics that are more sensitive, and warrant a level of -discretion-. Wouldn't you agree?" 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Perhaps, perhaps not. Either that, or Thaarin just doesn't care. More likely the latter. "Volken, Volken~" he says, "I do believe you should learn the value of the intersection of personal space and gentleness. I could even teach you, if you like," he says. Then he smiles fondly at Ellari like he's smitten with her and doesn't dignify her with a response. Instead he guides her towards the bar, where he waves the bartender over and orders a round of whatever anyone from their party wanted on his own tab. Mondrian nods at Navi, but then lets her take over the interrogating of the Duros, who frowns at Navi. "Who's asking?" he says brusquely. "Oh. -Ohhh-." the bartender says. "No idea where he is, and I certainly do NOT have contact information for him but..." she looks thoughtful. "Hm..." Then her eyes light up. "I do have his payment information. And I -can- leave a custom tab item on his credit chit, for a single credit or... maybe more, for a drink that doesn't exist, buuuut does include your name, and maybe... " she looks over at Zetha. "Whatever you'd like it to say?" The clone frowns, as if trying hard to remember. "Somewhere in the Gorge," he says. "But where I went out, is not where my ... master enters. And that exit actually no longer exists." 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' Navi produces her badge and ID. "Deputy Marshal Navi Valrennan, Aklyrr Bend," she replies. "The Mandalorian's a person of interest in a recent case." 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha thinks on this a moment, then her gaze shifts to where Mondrian and Navi are asking about this particular Mandalorian themselves. Then she looks back to the bartender. "Yeah. Do that. Make it a five credit charge with my name and a message. Meet me where we first connected. That's what I want it to say." Then she looks around one last time before motioning over to the two she entered with. "And those two? If they ask where I went. You don't know anything. I'll come claim the drink at a later time..." She'll wait for confirmation of all this, slides 100 credits across the bar top and then slides off her seat. After that she's gone. Zetha has left the building. 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' Looks like Ellari got his intent there after all. Volken grunts faintly. Some acknowledgement of her words. But he says nothing as Thaerin speaks again. Instead he just rests his hands against his broad waist and watches as the man guiides Ellari further in and towards the bar... Wiating now for Er'gi and Kass to catch up with him. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     @emit     <Tell me about where it was> Cayde prods further. <In the Gorge...where? Near to a landmark? Near to ....> he searches for words. <Why does it not exist now? ...We find your master, we can help you...fix your mind. Already fixed some...> 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     Ellari sits down at the bar, making herself comfortable for now. "Speaking in such a condescending manner to someone many times your size?" she remarks to Thaarin, smirking. "Someone as intelligent as you should know better."     "Now I am assuming that you wanted to come here, all the way on the edge of town, for a reason other than small talk?" 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' The Duros purses his lips and then scowls. "Person of interest, huh," he says, "how so? What kinda case is this?" Er'gi catches up with Volken easily. "Well?" he says, "what are you waiting for? Let's order something." Kass is lingering, and the thought that he might suddenly cut and run might occur to the other Mandalorians. "I... I don't know!" the clone cries, gripping his head. His frustration is palpable. "I don't know. It collapsed. I don't know where he is right now. And if he hasn't come for now by now, then he's not going to respond to any of my attempts to contact him." Thaarin laughs. "Oh, he won't attack me," he says with brazen confidence and a smile. "Why, you don't enjoy my small talk?" he says. Then he continues with, "I thought you'd like to know a bit more about these Arkanians that your dear baron has chosen to associate with." 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' He's not wrong though it is for different reasons than he probably thinks. No, Volken's not interested in crushing him into a small ball due to other more important things on his mind. Imagine that - Kass is more important here. "Don't even think about it." he warns Kass. "What's wrong with you? You're out here with us because -I- gave you the chance to prove yourself and be useful. Otherwise Jorn and Ellari would have you locked up in the brig on their ship. Naked still. Show some clout and class for once." He turns his attention from Kass and gestures at Er'gi, "Have your way. He's buyin' after all." He gestures to Thaerin, still macking on Ellari. "I'm just waitin' for Ellari to twist his arm off. The poor guys' got no idea what he's dealin' with someone that can rag doll him like a Rancor." He pauses, considering what else to add and then simply says towards Er'gi, "Just sit tight. We might have some news sooner rather than later. Drink up." 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde reaches out and puts a hand on Jasper's shoulder, trying to calm him down. <It's okay...just tell what you know. Where were you when you left last time? What things nearby? We can find it, then we find him> 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     "You sound so confident in that. Why?" Ellari asks curiously.     She glances back toward Kass, glaring daggers at him. He'd better not try anything. Not with Volken around. The man's faster than he looks. "Oh, and what about them?" she asks. "Have you located them?" 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "A potential missing persons case. He hasn't been seen lately, and there is some suspicion that he is not who he claims to be. Further, there are other Mandalorians on Tenoo, looking for him," Navi explains. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Kass's gaze darts around when Volken tells him to shape up. He looks for a hot second like he really is just going to cut and run, but then his shoulders slump and he drags himself over to the bar and orders -two- pints of beer. Er'gi leans towards Volken. "I don't think she will, vod. I think this fellow's dangerous... don't say I didn't warn you. He knows what he's getting himself into..." "I told you," the clone says to Cayde. "I don't remember. It's just somewhere in the Gorge. My.. Caine. He intended for the location to be obfuscated. All I can tell you is that there were lots and lots of those massive Tenooian trees. But that's just what the Gorge is like everywhere." "And who are these missing persons?" The Duros presses Navi. "Heh! I make it my business to make Mandalorians -not- my business! I wouldn't know where he is now. Last I saw him, he'd was at the tram station. But I don't think he got on it. That's all I can remember." Thaarin doesn't answer Ellari's question, he just gives her a flirtatious look and shrugs. "We're close," he half lies, "but you may like to know that they're eating out of that Xera Graf woman's palm. She's their funding, basically." 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "He's the most obvious one. Though there are a couple Arkanians that have also become scarce lately," Navi replies. "Do you remember how long ago you saw him at the tram station?" 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' "Hmm...dangerous you think? Hmm... maybe we should try and put him off his game, eh?" rumbles Volken upon hearing Er'gi. He leans back against the bar, thinking abit, as he looks towards Ellari and Thaerin .. and then finally his deep voice calls out in Man'doa, rolling heavily across the bar towards Ellari. <<Why don't you come over here and be my girl for a minute and see if your lover boy can keep his cool when he doesn't think he's in full control...>> After all - they've played this part before. If they can pull it off at a wedding they can certainly manage it in a cantina with an arrogant know it all who thinks he's got the upper hand. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     <But how you get here?> Cayde asks. There had to have been a path. The mindscape shifts, as he tries to take Jasper back to the first time he'd ventured out of the Gorge. <You take us there...>     There is an odd sensation, as he relinquishes some control of the mindscape to the clone. The imaginary world can now be shaped his own memories, like being in control of the entire world around him. It waits for him to recall... 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     "And why is she funding them? What does she want, and what business could she have with us?" Ellari asks, watching as Kass finally catches up and sits down dejectedly. Finally, something -smart-.     She looks over to Volken at his suggestion. "'Lover boy'?" she scoffs back in Mando'a as well. "Don't worry Volken, I know his game just as well as he does mine." 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "I dunno," the Duros says, "Maybe a couple weeks ago? My memory's not what it used to be." "Well..." Er'gi says, "I didn't say I thought it was a bad thing. I'm... enjoying this drink on his tab," the other giant says. "That was more for you. Ellari doesn't seem at all inclined to be listening to you right now.." The clone seems to be spiraling. For some reason, bringing up this memory seems to be triggering for him. "No no no..." He mutters. "I don't.. I don't know. I can only remember direction. I came -up- from somewhere. We were.. down below. Perhaps underground." But then Cayde's mindscape will be interrupted, because the doctor is shaking him. "Cayde," he says gravely, "any idea what -they're- doing here?" He's looking over at a group of fully armed marauders approaching the Amber Clad. Zealot is among them. Leading them, even. Thaarin shrugs. "They helped her turn a profit off of the research they conducted awhile back regarding genetically enhanced individuals," he says. "Who were then employed by local security corps or private mercenary groups who operate in and around the Outer Rim." His gaze flicks to Volken momentarily. "You're a smart woman, Ellari," Thaarin says, "why, she doesn't have any business with you. But perhaps she -should-. It could work in your favor." 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "Thank you, sir. You've been most helpful," Navi says, rising and leaving the table to return to Mondrian. She explains what little she learned. 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' << Yes, thereforce the two of you are endlessly circling one another without one gaining the upper hand over the other but suit yourself. I was only offering you a way to 'win'.>> remarks Volken dismissively. He naturally has no idea that they're discussing one of his past contractors. Probably for the best. "Me?" he asks Er'gi and then laughs, "Why? He's no threat to me. Or do you mean you think he might 'steal Ellari away eh? Don't jump to conclusions vod. If I was -seriousl- dont' you know I'd be over there? I don't give a damn about 'personal space'..." Volken's voice carries the grin his helmet obscures. "We'll see if he proves more useful than just buying drinks. If he's not? Well.. -then- I'll break him..." 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde stops barraging Jasper with questions, and instead just tries to sort through his memories having exited the lab and the gorge. He must remember leaving, which way he had come from. Where he'd gone afterward and how he'd eventually come here to Kublop. After all, it wasn't -that- long ago. He doesn't respond to Soren shaking him...it would seem the padawan is truly in deep. 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     "Win what?" Ellari asks, tilting her head to the side slightly.     "Hmm..." she consider's Thaarin's words. "What are you suggesting? That she might know where they are? That she could threaten to cut their funding? But what sort of leverage would I have over her? Other than a blaster to her head? And what concern is it of yours? What -do- you want, Thaarin?" 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Meanwhile, Mondrian had been interrogating some of the other patrons. "Good work," she tells Navi, "this corroborates with the other two stories I was told about him going to the platform but not getting onto the tram. We should check that area out, next," she says. Er'gi seems skeptical of Volken's remark, but doesn't comment. Kass laughs impolitely. "For you to be happy, my dear. Naturally, all people have weaknesses - people, things, places. But one thing you -can- be certain of is that -you're- my greatness weakness, for better or for worse." Thaarin tells Ellari. But she may recognize that while he's lying, he's trying to get a point across about Xera, clandestinely... Jasper's memories aren't terribly useful. Yes, he would appear to have come out of somewhere underground, but the area does just look all the same as the rest of the Gorge. And he'd no idea how he'd ended up in Kublop - Volken, Ellari and Jorn had taken him hostage and then brought him aboard the ship, after knocking him unconscious. Regardless, the young padawan will be probably snapped out of his reverie, when the sound of screams and open fire assault his ears. Yes, that's Zealot, and he's barraging the the entryway to the Amber Clad with an automatic weapon at close range. he tells Cayde suddenly, <After all this time of observing the baron, his behavior, and what places and people he is most protective of. I've found some areas of interest, and I am certain, that if the marauders free the clone, or take him hostage, I can convince the baron to come. However, it won't work if the other Mandalorians try to tag along> 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde sighs, frustrated. What use had all of that been? Nothing. The gorge was huge. He begins to wonder why they had even attempted to get anything useful out of the clone at all. Perhaps it was best to leave the Arkanians be, unless and until they started actively causing problems for the Republic. As of the moment, this issue seemed to be mostly Mandalore's problem, and he's tired of chasing useless leads.     <Okay...Force be with you> he tells Amarik. He then turns to Soren. [Sorry...nothing useful] is all he has to offer before heading back toward the tram station. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Without further ado, Mondrian starts heading for the tram station, walking at a brisk pace. Navi will have to walk just as fast, or jog, to keep up. "Did he say anything else about where he might have gone at the tram station, other than just not getting on the train?" she asks Navi, without looking back at her. Navi might not get a chance to respond before the sound of explosive blaster fire and screams can be heard coming in the direction of the spaceport. They'll likely spot Cayde going to where they're headed, too. Mondrian will hasten her already quickened pace towards the young padawan. /Cayde, what's happening?/ she signs to him. Meanwhile, Zetha will probably hear the screaming and the sound of blaster fire, too. But she might decide to just continue with her mission to head to and camp out at the place she last saw 'Jasper' at... Jorn, however, is probably napping, thinking, or just in general introverting inside the Amber Clad when he'll hear what sounds like someone trying to gun down the airlock sealing entry to the Amber Clad. Maybe he'll be surprised, maybe he won't. 

:'''{{#var:418|Jorn (418)}} has posed:''' Jorn is busy thinking and actually practing forms using a piece of rebar or plastisteel just as a blade. He wants to keep the dark saber hidden. There's a pause as he hears that. Then he starts to head toward the airlock seal of Amber Clad. There's an eyebrow raised as he pulls out a blaster. He's making sure this won't turn too violent. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' It might be some time before 'Jasper' gets her message. Which, luckily, gives Zetha time to determine how she's going to approach all of this. When the sound of distant blaster fire reaches her, she glances in the direction of the spaceport but she doesn't move. She'd be no good in a firefight. Pascifisim and all that. Better she sits here and waits for her own trap to spring - even if that does mean making other people mad at her for going rogue in a sense. 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "Oh, for... not /another/ disturbance!" Navi cries in frustration, whirling to run toward the sound of weapons fire. Which in this case means toward the spaceport. "I hope that's not the Mandalorians... it feels a little out of character for this particular bunch." And then she gets closer to the /Amber Clad/ and sees just who is leading the shooters. "I should've guessed..." she murmurs, rubbing her forehead with one hand. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde actually -isn't- headed for the spaceport. Instead, he's headed for the tram station to return to Aklyrr.     When Ms Mondrian asks him what's going on, he just shrugs. [Pirates attacking Mandalorians] is all he has to offer, before quickening his pace back toward the station. 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     Ellari is heading for the airlock just as Jorn does. "Dark farrik, where's Volken when you need him?" she grumbles, heading for the armory.     She pulls out a handful of grenades from a munitions stash and hands them to Jorn. "They're going to break through it anyway and we may as well make this -our- ambush instead. I'm going to open the door and when I do you throw these, got it? On my signal." She nods and goes to the cockpit. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' When Jorn arrives in rfront of the airlock seal, the shooting stops. That might be coincidence, that might not, as the door looks like a feather light blow might cause it to collapse. The marauders are standing on the gangway, fully armed. They don't attack Jorn immediately, though. Their leader, Zealot stands foremost. "You've taken that which isn't yours," he says to the Mandalorians through the nearly shredded airlock. "We're here to take him back." They've come for the clone, obviously. When Zetha arrives, she might notice that this area, looks pretty different in the daytime. For one, it's a lot farther removed from Kublop that she might remember it to be. Not only that, but's really secluded, and overlooks a foggy valley that looks like it might lead straight to the Gorge. She might also notice, if she's especially keen, that the foliage here looks disturbed... Mondrian remains nonchalant. "Of course it's the Mandalorians," she says, "it's what they do. Cause trouble." She shrugs, and looks to Cayde. "Right then. If Jedi doesn't think it's our concern, then let's just get on with chasing down that lead," she says. /Update/ she signs to Cayde, hurrying to keep up with him. /We think there's a lead at the tram station regarding where our mystery Mandalorian goes to do all his work. And, by proxy, probably how the Arkanians are getting around Tenoo without anyone noticing./ 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "This bunch of them hasn't caused trouble since they arrived on-world," Navi replies to Mondrian. "They've actually been pretty agreeable, even gone out of their way to respect our laws. Given who's leading the group near the Mandalorian vessel, I'd say it's Marauders doing the shooting." 

:'''{{#var:418|Jorn (418)}} has posed:''' "Who is out there?" Jorn asks referring to the person(s) trying to destroy the lock. He's not against getting the jump on them. He's trying to assess the targets. A look goes to Ellari, "Grenades. I'll move on your mark," he expects the outcome to be explosive. Although, he will ready both blasters now. He'll give a nod to signal that he's ready to go. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' It's almost like it's a little more eerie being here in the daytime rather than at night. Especially considering how one can make out what is where - like the foggy gorge - and how it's a bit further away from home than Zetha likely intended to be. As she searches a bit more, just to take stock of her surroundings and where she might want to set up camp she notices the disturbance in the foliage. Stepping closer and brushing away some of the brances and twigs she then takes a step back and looks around again. Someone has been here. How long ago though? "Hello?" 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' Volken had excused himself from the others after having given Kassady and Er'gi a withering glare from behind his helmet after their last comments. With no particular need for him there was little point to him just standing there and watching Thaerin attempt to mack on Ellari. So he got his fill of drinks and then eventually had to excuse himself to what passed for the 'little boys room'. As Er'gi can attest, that can take him awhile once he's completely filled up and in need of emptying. Thus even when the sound of explosions reaches him he doesn't really react to much. A man's got to do his business. When Ellari's voice finally ripples through to his distracted haze over his comms he sighs, delays in responding and then finally ends up finishing and then making his way out of wash room and through the cantina itself back out for the streets before answering her. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde nods to Mondrian. [Okay] he signs in reply. Well he supposes that's convenient for her. Upon reaching the station, he heads for the platform and sits down in the waiting area if the train isn't there at the moment. 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     << Three, two, one...now! >> Ellari flips the switch and opens the airlock, or what's left of it, signaling to Jorn to lob the explosives. She also demands to know where Volken is over the commlink. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Mondrian just gives Navi a skeptical look. "Sure," she says, her tone flat, and the young Sephi won't need the Force to know that Mondrian doesn't really believe her. "Anyway, are you coming with us to the tram station to hopefully uncover more leads, or spend your afternoon trying to figure out why pirates and Mandalorians like fighting each other?" She doesn't wait for Navi's response, instead, she quickens her pace towards the tram station, until she finds Cayde sitting down in the waiting area. She frowns in disbelief. "What are you -doing-?" she says, "If there was an entryway to a clandestine tunnel somewhere near the transit station, it's not going to be here." Jorn won't receive a reply. Only the sound of boots on the gangplank... No answer. Whoever had been here, isn't here anymore. Or they're hiding from Zetha, and ignoring her. It seems pretty apparent to her that whoever had caused the disturbance in the foliage had been here kind of recently. Either way, this is the spot. If she's gonna wait for Jasper, it'll be here. 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' Navi rolls her eyes and follows Mondrian to the tram station. "Are you sure there's going to be anything to find after so long?" she asks softly. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha tilts her head one way and then the other before shifting to look around again. Either no one is here, or they're hiding from her. She looks up at some of the surrounding trees, finds one that seems to have a nice perching spot, and then shifts to climb up. Years of rambling in and through and around defunct spaceships likely keeps her agile enough to do so with little efford. Once she's up there, she'll settle into her perch, pulls her holobook from her satchel and settles in to read - though she's keeping most her senses attuned to her surroundings. 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' *BOOM* *BOOM* *BOOM* .... Volken's footfalls quicken in pace and intensity as the sounds of the fight continue to reach him and he makes the full connection that it is in fact they who are being attacked. He doesn't answer Ellari back over the comms but instead simply works to increase his pace until the ship itself is within sight along with the chaos around it. Once the sight of the ambush opens up before him, he rolls a massive shoulder and unslings one of his repeater cannons from his flank. A loud whining sound occurs as it starts to charge up - building energy and then finally a loud *VRAAAAAAP* rumbles through the air as he begins unloading the weapon and sending a spray of blaster fire across the area towards their aggressor. "Flea..." he grumbles. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Upon catching up to the young Jedi, Mondrian will find Cayde sitting there with...what looks like a bubble of silver paint floating in front of him. It twists and turns into a brush shape.     [Waiting for train] Cayde replies to Mondrian, as if it's quite obvious. Isn't it obvious? This where you wait for the train to Aklyrr. 

:'''{{#var:418|Jorn (418)}} has posed:''' Once the door opens Jorn just readies the explosives and tosses them down. Even given a small wave before moving to cover on the wall to ready his blasters. Because the party shouldn't just stop after the explosives. 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     As soon as the grenades go off, Ellari readies her blasters as well and hurries toward the airlock to provide Jorn support. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "No," Mondrian says, "but there's only one way to find out if there's anything or not," she says resolutely. Mondrian rolls her eyes. "Navi, how do you even deal with this everyday?" she turns back to the young padawan. "You're co-deputy! Now act like it. I'm going to need your help here," she says. She then reaches over to grab the young padawan by the arm and drag him to... wherever. Zetha will be perched there for ... a little while. The sounds of shooting and screaming coming from the spaceport will still be able to be heard, but it's pretty distant. She might even lose track of time, reading her holobook. But eventually, she'll hear some rustling coming from down below... Volken won't have to look hard to find that cursed marauder. He'd actually left the gangplank entirely, so that he could greet Volken properly. How polite of him! He chuckles quietly when Volken calls him a flea, and opens fire on him, just barely managing to cartwheel aside and evade getting seared by the barrage. Then he takes out his own shotgun and aims not at Volken's head, but his crotch. Then he fires. The grenades knock a couple of the marauders off the gangplank. They yowl as they tumble to the ground. The others manage to get clear of the blast in time, but then Ellari starts shooting. A few of them take hits. Some of them slide down the gangplank, others take the hits and are slowed down, but continue advancing, taking out their own weapons and returning fire. 

:'''{{#var:418|Jorn (418)}} has posed:''' Jorn will peak out from the hole and start taking shots witht he blasters. Because the rumble of those explosions go off. He's just firing off the blasters for a few moments before moving back for cover. Return fire is a thing. "It's never a boring day is it?" he calls out to no on in particular. 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' Navi shrugs. "We usually work separately, and he has always had a habit of running off, so I'm used to him not being around," she replies, looking around the station for anything that might be a clue. "His horrible allergies to much of the plant and animal life here keep him from going far. Most of the time." 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     When Mondrian grabs Cayde by the arm, he frowns and tries to twist away from her. He really hates it when people grab him like that.     And then, the silver paint bubble wobbles and suddenly bursts, the paint flying in all directions and splattering across himself, Navi, and Mondrian's clothing. 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     "Would you prefer it was?" Ellari remarks back to Jorn. She rolls into cover, barely dodging a few potshots while a couple more glance off of her armor. "Volken, make these hu'tunns go away." she calls out to the behemoth of a man as she keeps firing at them. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' There's a moment where Zetha pauses as she hears the rustling and then slowly puts her holonovel back into her satchel before peering over to see who is emerging from the underbrush. When she spots the familiar beskar, she'll shift to hook her legs over the limb of the tree and then swings backwards so she's hanging upside down. "Was wondering how long it would take for you to get my message." She offers, potentially hoping to be looking at the face of the man in beskar but she very well could be looking at the back of his head. 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' Volken just -happens- to click on his comm link to Navi - allowing the sound of explosions and shouting and yelling to come pouring into her ears as he unloads another barrage of repeater fire at Amarik. <<Hey.>> he rumbles casually as if he were just calling her for a chit chat. <<You busy?>> Another booming explosion goes off. <<We're tearin' up your space port.>> he rumbles calmly. <<Self defense tho'.>> It's sheer distraction that enables that shot to go off though and to be fair, Volkens' got alot going on down there! Why else does it take him so long to drain the gizzard! But some form of dumb luck coupled with the beskar keeps him from just having a hole shot right through his pelvis area when the blaster fire hits from the shotgun and flying sparks send scorch marks up and down his inner thigh burn away portions of his trousers. It hurts like hell, naturally. A string of furious mandalorian curses rips out of him, very very audible to Navi and he brings his massive arm up and sends a whipcord lashing out towards Amarik, attempting to grab him and yank him towards him! 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Jorn's shots knock a couple of the marauders out for good. They're either dead, or out for the count. Still, there's several advancing, pushing their way into the ship. One of them throws a gas grenade, and suddenly, there's smoke everywhere, obscuring their view of the immediate vicinity. "Oh, great," Mondrian grumbles. "he has -allergies-? Kriff..." Navi will notice while looking around that there's an abandoned looking staircase near the back of the platform, hard to see because the light above it is flickering. Maybe that's a good as a place as any to start? Mondrian yelps when the silver paint bubble bursts everywhere onto her clothes, hair, and face. She lets go of Cayde, and sighs. /Look. I'm sorry. I know that when I'm working I can be super shitty and mean. I don't mean to be. But I.. we really need your help. I just got here, and I don't know anything about this place, or the problems you've been running into, aside from my briefing, which was comically short. Come with us, please? I need you/ When Zetha descends, she'll see that, yes, she is actually looking at the back of his head. He's semi crouching, facing the direction of the spaceport, and using a pair of binocs. Is he... spying on the chaos going down there?? When she starts talking to him he whirls around and points a blaster at her. But when he sees that its just her, he lowers it. "... Zetha? What are you doing here? What message?" The whipcord snakes out and while Zealot attempts to step aside, it curls around his leg and he's suddenly being dragged towards Volken. He rolls over, and pointing his blasters beyond Volken, shoots twice at several fuel canisters sitting below the Amber Clad. If he's successful, the canisters will burst open, spill fuel everywhere and then ignite. 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "There's a staircase back here!" Navi calls, moving to wave Cayde and Mondrian over... and then she gets a look at that silver paint sphere. "Oh, sh-..." she begins, and hastily ducks back behind the corner of the station as silver paint goes /everywhere/! Peeking out, she winces at the sight of Cayde and Mondrian covered with silver paint. "Oh, geez... you two might want to go by the convent and clean up," she suggests, only to have her comlink earpiece come to life. "There's a big firefight at the spaceport," she says to Mondrian. "The Mandalorian ship is under attack. I don't know if Kublop Springs even /has/ any defense forces." 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "You mean you aren't here because I left you a message to meet me here?" Zetha asks, finishing the motion to flip backwards and lands on her feet. "I've been looking for you. The message said to meet me where we first connected. Or shared a moment. Something like that." A hand waves through the air as she steps up beside him, seeming unbothered at the blaster having been pointed at her face mere moments ago. "Such chaos. But I suppose when too many people have too many questions and not enough answers, it's par for the course." She turns her head to look at him then. "You still willing to take a chance on a lost soul looking for her place in the galaxy?" 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde sighs when the paint splatters all over the both of them. [Sorry] he signs, and starts trying to delicately Force pull the paint off of her and himself, although it's kind of difficult with how diffuse it has become now.     There's a pause, and then he finally relents. [What do you need me then] he asks. At least she's nicer than her brother. 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     Good thing Mandalorians almost always wear their helmets into a fight, so Ellari isn't passing out but it still makes shooting anyone difficult. So instead of shooting at them, she darts back to the cockpit and fires up the engines, right as those fuel cannisters set fire to everything outside. They could board, but now she's going to make it impossible to leave -safely-.     The ship wrenches free from the docking clamps with a horrible grinding noise and rockets up into the sky, the cabin quickly venting atmosphere and pulling anything and everything not bolted down toward the damaged airlock. 

:'''{{#var:418|Jorn (418)}} has posed:''' Jorn breathes out again. Then he looks at Ellari for a moment. <<How are you holding up.>> The smoke comes through and he breathes out, trying to center himself. Then he pops out. He searches for a body. Just motion in the smoke. That's when he aims and squeezes the trigger. A flash of red disappears into the smoke. Then he'll hide again and looks at her for a moment. <<Evac plan?>> because he knows they need heavy ordinance to clear them out more. 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' Bleeding and furious. Not a great combo. Especially if you're the target of Volken's ire. Amarik should have opted to try and escape because ultimately Volken yanks on the whipcord with one arm to pull the Marauder into the air and to bring him sailing back towards him - adding insult to injury by triggering the whip cord's automatic retract system to add to the speed of it all. His other fist clenches and raises, looking like a boulder to the incoming marauder. To Volken's credit - he doesn't ignite the electrofield around the knuckles. He saw that fuel be breached and he grimaces as the fire spreads - but he just ends up sneering. Further igniting the fuel is a problem but he doesn't need to rely on blaster fire or electrical charge to do damage. That's just a bonus! "Right. Flea." he rumbles as he braces himself and then swings for the marauder once he's been yanked in range. He noticably doesn't bother untieing the whipcoard, perhaps intending on using the other man as a ping pong ball with is fists as the paddle. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "And the Mandalorians protecting themselves is a concern for us because....?" Mondrian trails off, arching a brow at Navi. "But fine, I'll get my brother to go over there with Vons and make sure none of the townsfolk get hurt. She takes out her commlink and starts tapping it to send a transmission to him, but while she's doing that, she says, "Now about what staircase?" She turns to Cayde, then says, /I just want you to come with us. I don't know specifically how I might need you, or when, but I just know that I probably will and even on the off chance that I don't, I'd feel a lot more comfortable with both the co-deputies by my side. And don't worry about the paint. It's really not a problem./ When the Amber Clad takes to the sky, several of the marauders lose their balance temporarily but manage to grab onto something so they don't fly out of the damaged airlock. One of them, while trying to regain his balance, is shot by Jorn. He yelps, giving his location away.. Jasper pauses. He seems skeptical, but he doesn't actually refuse her. "You've had a change of heart, I see," he says, "care to explain why?" Volken's whipcord is yanked taut as the side of Zealot is pulled towards his enemy. He pulls out both blasters and opens fire with both of them at base of the whipcord, hoping not only to sever the cord but give Volken yet another nasty burn or scorch. However, his timing is just barely off and his armored knee pad collides with the massive Mandalorian's knuckles. His armor clatters to the ground, and a scarlet gash on his leg opens up. 

:'''{{#var:418|Jorn (418)}} has posed:''' Jorn will try to hold onto something, but he wants to make one last parting shot since one person gave away their location. Jorn will wrap around tightly. The nearest handle or anything that sticks out like a makeshift handle. <<How are we looking?>> he calls out to Ellari over the short com. Then he pauses, <> 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "Well, the staircase is back here. It's hard to see, and I have a feeling it hasn't been used in a long time," Navi replies to Mondrian. She starts carefully down the stairs, producing a miniature high-intensity flashlight from her satchel. Within a few minutes she calls out, "There's an abandoned platform at the bottom! But there's also a concealed door down here! Well hidden, too! I'm betting there's /something/ interesting on the other side." 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Unfortunately, Cayde's attempts to clean up the paint just end up pulling on her hair. [Sorry] he signs again, but stops when she tells him not to worry about it.     He sighs. [Fine] But honestly, he is rather tired of following useless leads without any kind of concrete evidence that there will be anything productive coming out of this.     [...what we looking for] he asks. She'd said it, but he hadn't been paying much attention. 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     <<Still got a few more...>> Ellari answers Jorn. << Hold on tighter, I'm going to roll. >> She flips the ship sideways so that the broken airlock is facing downward. Now they'll have to fight both the immense air pressure AND gravity. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "My life got threatened. Something something hidden lab...blah blah...the guy wanted me to take a probe in and record stuff..." Zetha holds up her hands then. "You're free to search me. I destroyed the probe. But I also wound up going down into the gorge because I wanted to check a few leads for something /else/ and wound up running into two of you. So. Consider my interest piqued." There's a little smirk on her lips then. "I mean what could be more interesting here than if what I've been told and seen turns out to be true. The kind of profit margining you could be doing. And my parents are likely dead on some other planet after living the life of slavery. I feel like lucrative business is the much more interesting venture." 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' The whipcoard casing goes up in an eruption of sparks, flame and flying shrapnel. Some of it scores across Volken's torso. Others are deflected by his beskar armor. Given the beskar most of the vambrace is left intact but the cord is momentarily useless now. The cord itself is largely unharmed though it whips about wildly fro the release of the tension before falling to the ground. Volken's other arm comes around now though. With Amarik so close attempting to seize him seems the next best option here and he brings a colossal arm around to try and grapple and crush the guy to the ground under his bulk. <<Er'gi! Kassady! Where are you!?" 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' There's another yelp, a FWUMP, and then the sound of a body flying out of the Amber Clad at high speed. At least that's one less marauder, now. However, Jorn will be able to hear the sound of stumbling, and bodies hitting bulkheads just up ahead as Ellari twists and turns. Surprisingly none of them will come sliding down the hallway towards Jorn. However, he'll know now where they're all headed - towards the holding cell where the clone is. But he'd probably figured that already. "Nice," Mondrian says, "you've a keen eye," she says to Navi with a grin. "Can you get it open?" Mondrian points at the door Navi had just found. /We've got another lead/ she signs. "You're in danger," the beskar clad man says, "why didn't you tell me earlier? I can protect you, you know. I'd be more than happy to," he continues, clearly enticed. "Well... I could show you. But I need to know that I can trust you," he says. "I want you to do me a favor." Volken actually succeeds in bringing his massive arm down on top of the smaller marauder. He manages to pull an arm free, and just as Volken urgently messages Er'gi and Kasseady, he'll see what the marauder has in his hand. It's a grenade, and he's about the flick the pin. Well, that might be -really- bad for both of them, even if they both have armor. There's no response fro Er'gi, but Kass replies lazily. <<I'm right where I want to be, di'kut! Next to my sixth pint of beer. Ah... I can barely stand...>> 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "Eh. I live a stones throw away from the marauders. When am I not in danger? Besides, I didn't have any real way to find you. Hence the message I left at the cantina we ran into each other at. But that's all in the past. I'm more concerned about the future." Zetha offers this before she folds her arms across her chest and leans in from the waist forward. "I can do a favor. Lay it on me." 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' Priorities means that Volken cannot answer Kass but he will. Oh he will. "Don't be -stupid-..." he hisses as he tightens his grip on Amarik. "I've stepped onto a mine and only gotten mildly disorientated. I'll weather that grenade like a childs firecracker. You won't. -Surrender-." 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "I can try, but if it's more complicated than giving it a push or a concealed latch, we might need someone with mechanical skills to budge it," Navi replies to Mondrian. "Wish me luck." 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde nods and follows Mondrian, although he still looks rather unenthused. It was exhausting, following random nebulous things that appeared 'suspicious' but had no obvious connection to anything relevant. [What is it] he asks. 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     Ellari just continues spinning the ship about, attempting to dump out the pirates. Either way, even if they get to the clone, they'd still have to go through her to get anywhere productive. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Mondrian turns to Cayde and signs, /Looks like a doorway leading to somewhere else. We got a lead from a Duros about Jasper coming here but never getting on the train. There's got to be another clue if we follow this lead/. She then turns to Navi. "Lead the way," she says to the young Sephi girl. 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "Force, be with us, please..." Navi murmurs, aiming her mini-flashlight through the door and stepping through, looking around cautiously... 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde hesitates. Not this -again-. But then sighs reluctantly and follows Navi. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' The marauder doesn't say anything. Volken probably won't be surprised, the 'Flea' had never been been a man (or woman, for all Volken knows) of many words. But the massive Mandalorian probably won't need words from him to guess his next move, because he hasn't let go of the grenade. His hand is still on the pin. Is he really going to do it...? He doesn't seem intimidated by Volken, or his threats. However, what might actually surprise Volken is what he does next. The massive Mandalorian will suddenly be able to see in his mind eye's a cacophony of imagery. The feeling won't be totally foreign - it's similar to what Cayde does, but much, much less clear and ten times less orderly. It feels like a film reel of weird blurry memories that may or may not be Zealot's. There's one of a crying child, a blond toddler at a spaceport somewhere, that Volken may or may not recognize as Cayde. The voice of a woman, saying soothing words that sound too garbled to be comprehended. Then, another memory, which is just an amalgamation of moving colors and shapes, paired with the feeling of desperation and sadness. Then there's more voices, a point of view of someone approaching a house that an elderly gentlemen with tired eyes answers, but this memory doesn't have any sound. It seems that perhaps the marauder is trying to convey some kind of narrative but what that narrative is, is completely obscured by the blurry memories and disorderliness of the projection. Then suddenly, the grenade goes off. The massive Mandalorian might be expecting heat, shrapnel, perhaps to be blown back, but none of that happens. There's just a really, really bright, blinding flash and an ear splitting bang that might cause his head to spin and his ears to ring. He'll then hear shouting, and the sound of running footsteps. 'Jasper' chuckles. "You probably aren't going to like it. But if it didn't require quite a bit of effort, then what kind of favor would it be?" He pauses. "I need a wider variety of genetic material for my... experiments. Preferably, the Mandalorian kind, or the Force sensitive kind. Can you... acquire it for me?" He then looms over her. Meanwhile, Jorn had better hurry. Some of the marauders sound like they've made it to the clone's cell. If he doesn't get there soon, they might succeed in blasting the door holding him hostage open. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha smirks. Actually smirks, and then straightens up a bit and tilts her head to the side. "Lucky you, I know a few of both. I suspect if the Mandalorians knew what you were up to, you'd lose your credibility as one." There's a chuckle. It's dark and that smirk never goes away. "You also know I run in circles with Force Sensitive people. Oh how clever you are. I can aquire what you need...but I'll have to be sneaky about it. Get a little closer to those who already trust me at arm's length. Which means, as much as you may keep an eye on me, you don't get to question my methods." She holds a hand out to him then, giving a tilt of her head. "Genetic material for what you can show me. It's a deal then?" 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     Ellari curses as those cursed pirates just don't seem to know when to quit in spite of all of the wild barrel-rolling she has been doing. Well then, she will just have to escalate further.     << Jorn...make sure your helmet's on. I'm going up. >> she warns, and then opens all the doors except the one to the clone's holding cell inside the cabin before turning the ship to a steep climb. The higher she climbs, the faster the air is sucked from the cabin. Without a functional airlock, the pressure difference becomes more and more difficult to resist as it threatens to tear them all out into sub-orbit. 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' It is indeed a familiar sensation. He didn't like it then. He likes it even less now. Confusion wracks Volken's mind as the images flood in. His girp loosens on the 'flea' and then - there's that grenade going off. It is not wha the expected, no...yet he should have expected it. No doubt tales of his personal touhgness coupled with that damned beskar armor have made the rounds. A physical exploson very well might not have slowed him down even at close range. Blinding him and making him deaf however? No amount of toughness will help there. So as the footsteps do begin to filter into his senses, barely, he takes a chance and simpl fires blind, sending out a repulsor blast in the direction he -thinks- he hears the running from. "Nngh.. STOP!" 

:'''{{#var:418|Jorn (418)}} has posed:''' As Jorn tries to ready himse,f brace himself, he's not one for dodging sadly. Too concerned about trying to hold onto everything. And he will hope the armor holds up. Just waiting for what could be some bad times. Still, he will just try to focus and figure out the next plan of actions while he has a few miliseconds to think. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Mondrian follows Navi through the door, and motions for Cayde to come along as well, though he's likely already tailing them. The doorway will open up into a labyrinth of underground tunnels. They don't look like they've been used much, but if either Navi or Cayde look down, they may notice that even though there aren't clear footprints, -someone- has trekked down here. Recently. There's a bunch of leafy detritus on the floor, and at first glance it might seem like there's nothing of interest among the dead leaves and twigs lying there. But a second glance will reveal that there are some wilted blue flowers scattered intermittently among the detritus lining the tunnel walls. It's almost like someone had intentionally left them here for them to find so they wouldn't have to wander the tunnels aimlessly. Cayde or Navi will recognize the flowers immediately - they're the kind that Crane would give them, every so often. They're common enough on Tenoo that no one would think much of seeing some wilted ones down here, but the way they've been strewn will be obvious to Navi and Cayde. Meanwhile, as Ellari aims the nose of her ship upward and accelerates, a good number of the marauders will get sucked out. Their screams will be heard as they fly past Jorn and out the ragged entryway to the Amber Clad. But Jorn will be able to see that there's still one left, desperately trying to claw his way to the cell where the clone is. He's almost there... "Of course," Jasper says. He seems charmed. "But naturally, they can't know. You know that, right? However, it shouldn't be hard to get a strand of hair, a little saliva, or even a fingernail." He turns to leave. "I need to tend to some matters, but you can reach me the same way you did before with the bartender. I see the line item now, on my checking account. Good luck, dear Zetha." Volken's blind shooting collides with... someone. There's a loud string of curses, accompanied by, "Local security here! You're under arrest, for assaulting a senior officer and severe property damage!" The behemoth, though, may decide it's no longer worth the trouble - Zealot's gone. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "I'm not an idiot. Of course I know. They won't suspect a thing." Zetha offers, retracting her hand that goes unshaken. Her head tilts and then she nods once more. "You'll hear from me soon. I'm sure of it." She offers this and that smirk hasn't faltered once. "See you soon, Jasper." Watching until his back is all she sees before she turns and heads back towards the spaceport. She pulls out her commlink and sends a message to Doctor Cassias. <<Have news. Will want to meet soon.>> Wondering if she should try to avoid the spaceport and perhaps heads to the convent instead. 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "Geez... naturally, there's about half a million passageways, just so we could wander around down here for eternity and never get out or find anything," Navi murmurs, shining her light around. And then the light touches the floor, and she takes a closer look. "Hey, look at these plants... there's some wilting flowers down here, with no flower plants for them to have come from. Cayde, do these look like the kind of flowers Crane was handing out? You might've seen more of them than me." "And it looks like they all point toward one tunnel. So I guess I'm friends with him again. Let's follow them." Taking her lightsaber hilt into her right hand, she begins to lead the way down the flower-strewn tunnel. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde follows them down into...great. -Another- labyrinth of tunnels. He notices the flowers, and almost rolls his eyes. Well, he supposes they're to follow these wilted flowers in this random hallway through this random door to something somewhere that may or may not be relevant to anything. He hesitates again, but finally follows Navi in the direction the flowers are pointing. What did the need him here for, again? 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     "Dank farrik!" Ellari mutters, and turns on the intercom. "Get off of my ship, hu'tuun! I don't know what you're hoping to accomplish! You get him out of the cell, and then -what-? You both get pulled out of the airlock, then drift in orbit for who knows how many cycles? What good does that do -anyone-?"     Then on Jorn's personal commlink: << "Jorn! What are you doing? Get -rid- of them!" >> 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' The doctor responds immediately. <We can talk now, I'm still in town, but are you alright? There was some kind of firefight involving the marauders and the Mandalorians at the spaceport. Please tell me you were nowhere near.> Mondrian frowns. "Who's Crane?" she mutters, but likely too quiet for Navi to hear, as Navi's likely already picked up on the path of wilted flowers through the underground tunnels. As they proceed, it gets darker and darker, and starts to angle downward slightly. Mondrian frowns when Cayde hesitates. /What's wrong/ she signs to him. /Sometimes police work is like this. You just have follow leads and hope they get you somewhere/. Some of the marauders had been heading for the cockpit, but fortunately for Ellari, when she'd angled up and away, those marauders had gotten sucked out. However, what isn't fortunate for Ellari is that she'll see The Amber Clad's sensors picking up another ship fast approaching her from behind. She'll recognize it's signature. The Veracity's Blade. The damn baron himself seems to have finally appeared. 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' Navi already knows who Crane is, so she doesn't say anything for the moment. Crane's identity is a complicated and confusing matter even to her, and she's known him for longer than anyone else here. "Looks like we're descending. Light's getting thin," she muses, looking around cautiously. Just because someone cared enough to leave them a trail doesn't mean Crane is the only one that's been down here... 

:'''{{#var:418|Jorn (418)}} has posed:''' Jorn will see the the other ship coming in. That's when Jorn will start to move toward the engine room. He has a plan. Along the way he'll grab whatever tool possible. The plan is simple. Tinker in the engine to somehow make it faster. Basically repair it, tune it up, or give it a bypass of some things that may slow the vehicle down. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' <<Wasn't near. Was talking to Jasper. Let me know where to meet you, cause I'm still trying to avoid the spaceport.>> Zetha replies, deciding to hunker down next to a tree and just wait for the doctor to give her a location. She'll spend that time typing something in her holopad. Technically, if Soren just happens to find the holopad and reads it. She didn't tell him. Not willingly anyway. 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     Ha, he finally shows himself does he? Or at least someone with his ship. She hails it. << "So the coward finally shows himself does he? Well, if you want your pathetic little clone, you had better come -get- him." >>     With that, Ellari guns the sublights as Jorn works his magic, hopefully giving them a bit of extra speed. But she doesn't push it -too- hard. She's heading back down toward the surface now, hoping the baron will follow. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     [I am not a police] Cayde points out to Mondrian. And isn't that what he's been doing the past several days already? It hasn't gotten him anywhere. And he still doesn't understand why they need to help solve the Mandalorians' political feuds... 

:'''{{#var:418|Jorn (418)}} has posed:''' <<Need any more repairs to get us out of here sooner?>> Jorn replies to Ellari from the ships comlink. The man can't see anything. He looks at his communicator. A few bad ideas forming. Although he will search his person for one of the brother's comlinks. A plan slowly brewing. Well, a couple of them. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Thankfully, Navi doesn't run into anyone or anything. However, as the light gets thinner and the air gets colder, she'll be able to see that there's a vague outline of something grey and vehicle shaped up ahead... Mondrian frowns at Cayde. /You're co-deputy. So, Jedi, police. Same thing, right?/ But then she spots the same thing Navi is seeing and starts hurrying ahead towards it. <You're going to hate me, but we need to meet at the gravball club. It's the only place where we can get a room with any real privacy.> The doctor replies. <And thank the light. Avoid the spaceport... I don't know what's going on, but it can't be anything good. Cayde didn't seem to be bothered by any of it, which makes me think he wasn't surprised. I'm going to have to talk to him about it later> The baron opens up a channel back to Ellari. <Ellari, Ellari. How I've missed you...> 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha reads that message twice and then sighs. <<Alright. I'll meet you there. I'm closer to it than the spaceport anyway I think...>> Though she's slightly worried that Jasper may have headed in that direction. But he also knows she runs with people who have gone there and she told him not to question her methods. So, she turns and heads towards the GravBall Club. She might wait for Soren to arrive before going inside though, and hopefully no one is inside that's going to give her a hard time. 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "Hey... I think there's a vehicle up here. Big and gray thing," Navi calls back to Cayde and Mondrian, moving closer to the object. She scans the floor between herself and the machine with her light, just to make sure there aren't any tripwires or buttons or anything; some criminal and terrorist types just /love/ to boobytrap their vehicles. 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     << "Have you now?" >> Ellari replies dryly. She then starts throttling away from the Blade, easily hovering right on the edge of its short-range sensors thanks to Jorn's engine tweaks.     << "Didn't know you had a way with ships. You get rid of the scum yet?" >> she replies to Jorn. << "The baron is onto us...where should we bait him to?" >> 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde shakes his head, but doesn't sign any more, as he draws his lightsaber to help light the way in this deep, dark tunnel. 

:'''{{#var:418|Jorn (418)}} has posed:''' <<Any place we can bury that ship?>> Jorn replies remembering what the Baron did in a jail cell. That's a sore spot. <<Maybe drop something explosive on his ship.>> he'll add. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' <Thank you. I know it's your least favorite place, but we need privacy. I'll try to keep it short> the doctor replies to Zetha. Ten minutes later, she's in front of the gravball club, and the doctor has arrived. He waves her down and after chatting with the bouncer briefly and paying him a few credits, gets them into the club... Mondrian jogs after Navi, following the light of the sabers. "Well, this looks promising," she says, examining it. "Wait... look!" she points at an emblem on the bottom the vessel. "... Arkanian Micro." She looks up at Navi and Cayde. "...the Arkanians!" Then Amber Clad pushes ahead, and the Veracity's Blade lags behind. However, the distance is not so great that the baron's ship can't at least fire off a few shots at the Amber Clad. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "It will be good to have a private room, Doctor." Zetha offers aloud once they're in each other's presence. She knows she never looks the part of being the type who venture into this club, and maybe on some levels that's actually a good thing. She walks close enough beside Soren that she'll slip the holopad she noted some of the finer details on into Soren's pocket and then gives him a wary smile. "I suppose I'll just follow you to wherever is best for us to talk." 

:'''{{#var:418|Jorn (418)}} has posed:''' The ship rustles and shakes a little as combat happens. The Mandalorian narrows his eyes under the helm. <Everything alright out there?> he asks and he feels the jostle and just braces just in case things will get worse. Though he will give a cursory glance at the engine room. 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     The ship jolts a bit as a few shots score the hull, but no serious damage is done. << "If you shoot us down, your precious clone might die. Is that a risk you're willing to take?" >> Ellari taunts him.     << "I'm fine." >> she replies to Jorn. << "I suppose we could find out if he'll follow us back to Kublop." >> She turns the controls and starts heading back down through the atmosphere. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde frowns at the emblem. How'd they get a ship down here, anyway? Unless it was very old... 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "Maybe this explains why those sleazy quacks haven't been around so much lately," Navi muses, studying the vessel. "There must be a bigger tunnel or portal they got this in through. And now I'm wondering if they're camped out on the ship or if there's some living arrangements for them down here. Let's take a quick look around." Which she immediately moves to do. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "Yeah..." the doctor says, his gaze scanning the crowd just before he starts heading for one of the private backrooms. "Right," he says to Zetha with a nod. He'll lead her to a small hearth room, and opening the door, gestures for her to go inside first before closing the doors behind him. He then goes to stand by the window, peering out of it with a distant look on his face. It's started to rain, and the sound of large raindrops hitting the window might feel calming to Zetha. The doctor then turns to Zetha. "You met him, didn't you?" he says, his tone tenuous. Sadly for Jorn, things do. That last marauder is still on Ellari's ship, and he's now found Jorn. "Wanna play?" he growls. He then laughs like a maniac and taking out twin blasters, opens fire on Jorn! Caine doesn't reply to Ellari's taunt. He presses down on the throttle harder, trying to close the gap between the two ships... Indeed. Navi and Cayde will be able to see that beyond the vehicle, is another set of winding tunnels - these are wider and taller than the ones they'd just come through. "See?" Mondrian says to Cayde. "This might have been a lot of work, but at least it's worth it. Can we get inside and pull the nav data off of it?" she looks over at Navi and then Cayde, glancing at their sabers. "If they're camped out on the ship, they're not there right now. My heat scanners aren't really turning up anything ..." she frowns. "Wait... I'm getting a heat signature from inside the vessel. It's really small but..." 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "I did, yes..." Zetha offers and then shrugs her shoulders. "I have no idea where Navi and Mondrian are by the way. Didn't find him in the Cantina, so I got a little...creative." The Twi'lek offers, looking over to the window watching the rain as it patters against the glass. "So I went a bit rogue. Met him on my own. Made a deal. Quite fascinating really. But once I make good on my end of the bargain...I'll have access to what we want." 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "Maybe, if they forgot to lock the hatch. I'm betting they didn't. We can check," Navi says, moving to inspect the boarding ramp and hatch. "We /might/ be able to cut our way in if the hatch isn't too thick." 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     "Jare'la..." Ellari mutters as the Blade begins to gain on her. She waits until he starts accelerating, then suddenly slows and pitches forward, turning her guns on her pursuer before continuing to descend back toward Kublop.     << "Jorn...get these damned pirates off of my ship..." >> 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde frowns when Mondrian mentions there is a small heat signature on the ship, so he tries to reach out with the Force and find out who or what it is, exactly. 

:'''{{#var:418|Jorn (418)}} has posed:''' Jorn sees a Marauder appear seemingly out of nowhere in the engine room. That makes Jorn do a sudden dodge, using the familiarity of the area as cover. Thankfully and somehow he has dodged it all. Using that same structure he aims and returns fire. The bounty hunter angry for a moment. Although he will happily take any com supplies off that marauder because using an enemy's radio is always a good thing. 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' "Are you kidding me?!" Volken's eye sight is back now and: Ship is gone. Zealot is gone. Marauders are gone. He's there by himself in a damaged area with Republic Security Forces looking to arrest him. He powers dow the vambraces and doesn't make a move, first clicking on his o his comm: <<Er'gi! Kass! Where th'hell are you!?>> Then he clears his throat and puts on his nice voice and pings Navi. <<..I might need a get out of jail card.>> Then he switches again and puts his rough voice on. Less mean sounding then when he was yelling for Kass as he rumbles, <<Ellari! Jorn! Wha'ts happening!?>> Then finally to the officers.: "...Oops?" 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' The doctor doesn't respond to Zetha's comment about Navi and Mondrian. He frowns when she says she got a little creative but otherwise doesn't comment. "Well, -if- is more like it. If you're able to make good on your end of the bargain." He stares out the window again, watching the rain fall. His jaw tightens. "I've been thinking..." he trails off. "I've been thinking that I'd like to go with you, Zetha." The Arkanians definitely hadn't forgotten to lock the latch, but it looks very sliceable, if Navi's feeling destructive. Mondrian seems to be in favor of the latter. She examines it. "You can cut through that." A pause. "Right?" Cayde will be able to sense that there's a creature inside the vessel. It's alive, but weak. And it's memory... is startlingly vivid for an ... animal. It remembers going to a certain lab... With a yelp, the marauder goes down. Is he dead? Who knows... Either way, the Veracity's Blade is damn near on top of the Amber Clad. Ellari opens fire but the shields on the baron's ship easily deflect the shots. <You can fight me all you like, Ellari. But you're not winning. Not this time> And he opens fire again, this time aiming at her ship's thrusters. Volken will get no response from either Er'gi or Kass. It may suddenly occur to him, that the one charming blue alien who'd schmoozed Ellari had possibly managed to convince the other Mandalorians to drink themselves into a stupor. The blonde male human standing in front of Volken is clutching his singed shoulder and scowling at the Mandalorian. There's a couple of other security officers behind him who don't look like they're interested in messing with Volken, but the blonde seems unintimidated. "Oops is right, dumbass." He glares at the Mandalorian. "Alright, well you know I hate Mandalorians but there's worse, so I'm giving you three minutes to tell me how this isn't your fault." 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "They'll definitely know we've been here, but yes. This lock shouldn't take a minute to slice," Navi replies, and proceeds to literally slice the lock mechanism open. Reaching through the small hole in the door, she touches the 'open' button for the hatch. "After you two." 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "No." Zetha says. "It's not an if. It's a when. You can like it or leave it. But I've been saying it since I came to you after I was threatened...you and yours don't really have another way in right now. Tried every angle. My angle is getting results without tiring me out or chasing down dead ends." She watches as he stares out the window, and when he mentions that he'd like to go with her, she raises a single eyebrow. "With me? With me where? If you mean wherever Jasper takes me, that's a good way to getting us both in a lot of trouble. Up to and likely including dead. You're going to have to trust me on this one, Doctor." 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     << "Tell me Caine, who wins if the clone dies?" >> Ellari taunts back at him, since he hadn't answered her question earlier. << "What does that accomplish for you, exactly? Other than millions of wasted credits?" >>     The ship is jarred again, but she keeps hover right at the edge of sensor range. However, she throttles harder, trying to get out of firing range as the port draws ever nearer. << "I have succeeded in drawing Caine out. We are returning to port now." >> she answers Volken. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde frowns pensively. Some sort of animal. It has been to a different lab, but is it the same lab the clone remembers? He enters the ship and immediately heads toward the cockpit, all the while trying to dig in the creature's memories for anything that might pinpoint a location. 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' Smells like a setup. Volken's eyes narrow. He already didn't like the guy. His gaze then falls on the officer. It's all very monolithic looking with his helmet on. "It's not my fault." Volken rumbles. The voice rolling out in about one to two seconds. He hardly needed three. But after a moment of deadpan silence, Volken sighs and rumbles, "Marauders attacked us! I was trying to fire at one that dropped a flashbang but he got away. I just hit you with a repulsor shot, vod. You're acting like I shot you with this?" Volken points at his back where the gigantic repeater blasters sit. "I didn't. You'll be fine. You were just knicked. It was ...self defense..." As Ellari answers him over the comm, he just narrows his eyes. If Er'gi wsa here he could at least use his jet pack but he's stuck down here now. <<Understood. Standby.>> he says to Ellari before turning towards the security forces. "There's a whole damn fire fight going on above our heads you know. Marauders, amiright?" 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "Sooo," Mondrian says, shoving her hands in her pockets. "How hard would it be for someone like me to get a light saber..." The door pops open easily once Navi cuts a hole and presses the open button for the latch. Once they're inside, Mondrian starts poking around. There isn't much to see from a surface level, but Navi will be privy to the feelings of distress coming from the creature whose mind Cayde is probing. It's locked away in here somewhere, hidden from sight... What Cayde sees isn't an exact match to the lab the clone had been in, but it seems highly likely that it is, just a different part of it. More importantly, the creature remembers how it got in, and also how it got out. It had somehow figured out how to open its cage, and found a way to the place where the Arkanians  had dumped the organic waste from their experimentation through the vents, and had survived by eating the carcasses of what would appear to be failed experiments until the hatch, apparently on some timer, had opened and deposited all of the rotting material into a hole in the ground. It had then flown out, over some kind of massive divide that looks thousands of meters deep, before being discovered by Zealot, who'd noticed the metal ring clamped around its foot and recognized it as one of the Arkanian's experiments. He'd then caught the bird, given it some food and water, then sailed on his boat through the marshland to a hole in the ground that led to this ship, and hidden the bird in a cage on this vessel... Weirdly, the CSF officer doesn't interrupt him, or tell him off. "Uh-huh," he says calmly. "Yeah, I know," he says when Volken mentions the firefight. "The only reason why they're getting away with all this mayhem is because for some damned reason, the co-deputies think they owe that one tiny pirate something. No kriffing idea why." The baron doesn't reply, again. Instead, he opens fire once more. Both the Blade and Amber Clad are nearing the spaceport, too... The doctor's expression hardens for a moment and his hazel eyes blaze with a fire that Zetha hasn't seen before. "And that's exactly what I said to you about this entire endeavor yet you insisted on it and I relented, because you're right, it is the only way. You're telling me your non-negotiable, and I'm letting you have it, I just don't know for absolute certain if it will work. But it's only fair that if I'm letting you have yours, you have to let me have mine. And this is it. I'm going with you. I've decided it's too dangerous for you to go it alone." 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha doesn't change her stance and she stares down the blaze in his eyes with a hardened stare in her own. "Oh don't give me that. Act like I twisted your arm. I gave you the truth. An outside perspective against what was going on. Decided to give you the advantage I had." She shifts her gaze back to the window to watch the rain for a second longer. "And who the kriff put a crown on your head saying you're the ruler of my life? I'm non-negotiable because I'm trying to keep everyone safe. Everyone. You don't get to stand there and decide what's too dangerous for me. I knew the risks when I told you my idea. You let me have it. So keep it that way and stand aside." 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' Navi lets Cayde go to work on the specimen he found. She chances to look at her comlink screen, notices a message from Volken, and tries to contact his comlink via direct voice communication. "Volken? Are you there? Sorry I missed your call. I'm pretty deep underground, and it might have blocked the signal," she says. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     A big chasm like that had to be visible from the air, and it had to be somewhere in the gorge. Short range scanners should be able to detect the topographical profile. Cayde straps himself into the pilot's seat and slices through the ship's authentication to access the controls. He begins to fire up the engines...hopefully Navi and Mondrian will get the idea... 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     Volken will probably be able to see the firefight happening above the spaceport now, as the Amber Clad rolls again to avoid the Blade's assault. Hopefully Kublop's own security would start helping out now. That is, if they -had- any.     Either way, she loops around again and returns fire toward the Veracity's Blade--fast but not much substance to it--just to keep him busy evading if nothing else. At some point, he'd have to wise up to the fact that this wasn't getting him much of anywhere. 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' "They what?! Is it just impossible to get on the same wavelength around here?!" bellows Volken. "So you can't do anything about this? -Fine-! You'd all just get in the way anyway!" He turns around, looking over the spaceport for something else. Anothe ship. Kassadays ship... <<I'm taking yoru ship, Kass! Since you can't be bothered to be helpful! I'll fly it myself!>> Volken turns, starting to stalk away if the officers will let him. He then just hears Navi and frowning, he switchs over towards her, <<These damn marauders are attacking us. Again! What's this about that crazy pirate having something on you and Cayde? Nevemrind if you can't do anything about it but I'm about to blow something up!>> 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "I'm not trying to be ruler of your life, I just care about you, dammit!" One of the doctor's hands closes into a fist. "Because light forbid that anyone do that, when prior to all this that's all you wanted, so badly. And when Thaarin couldn't do that, it cut you deep. Is that what you want, Zetha? For someone to care, but on -your- terms and when it's convenient for -you-? Well, I'm sorry but that just isn't how love works. You don't get to dictate how I feel, or sever the bond I have to you whenever you feel like it. I will always care, no matter what you say or do. And yes, I'm going to be selfish and say that for once in my life, I'd hoped that I could have someone who would let me care about them in the way I've always wanted to. Don't you realize that I'm trying to do the same thing you are? Keep everyone safe, including you? But fine, if you want it that way, then so be it. However, if I don't get to decide what's too dangerous for you, then you don't get to decide what's too dangerous for me." Then he turns around and goes out of the room. The doors close behind him. She can chase after him, or she can sit and be alone with her thoughts. Clearly, she'd touched a nerve, but he'd not specified which one, and the last thing he'd said might worry Zetha. It would seem he was so determined to go the lab himself, with or without Zetha... "Hey!" Mondrian suddenly runs over to Cayde and pushes the throttle back down. "Are you kriffing -crazy-? Where do you think you're taking this thing? We don't even have the exact coordinates of where the lab is! And even if we did, we can't just go charging there. They're probably on the lookout for us, or literally anyone from the Republic. We have the nav data now, we can go and -clandestinely- scout anytime we want. Then we figure out how to approach without them noticing, watch Zetha get in, monitor her remotely from nearby, and then we're game. We can figure out her exit strategy after." She looks around. "But first of all, we have to patch this place up. They can't know we were here. Otherwise, our strategy's toast." She goes to pick up the piece of metal Navi had carved out of the door earlier, then goes to tap the young Sephi girl on the shoulder. "Hey can you make sure Blondie doesn't try anything crazy? Thanks." The Republic security officer just smirks. "Yeah, not really. But you can." Surprisingly, he doesn't try to stop Volken. Then, a bit more quietly, he says, "In fact, I might even be willing to pay you..." He turns around to leave. Kass doesn't respond. Maybe it's for the best, anyway. The Blade dodges, evading Ellari's shot. They're so close to the spaceport now... But then, all of sudden, the baron's ship peels off and dives towards the Gorge, disappearing into the fog surrounding it... 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "Um... no? Bigger and meaner people than me have tried, and they all failed," Navi replies to Mondrian. "But I can talk to him and hope he's feeling like listening. And I have no idea how we're going to mend that hatch so it looks like it wasn't damaged." She heads forward to the cockpit. "So, where were you planning on going after you took off?" she asks Cayde. "And do you know how to get the ship out of this chamber? It's probably one of these bigger tunnels, but we have no idea where they go, and I'm not sure it's safe to find out." 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' "Pay?" Volken pauses in his movements towards commandeering Kass' ship. He slowly turns to look back in the direction of the departing officer and just looks at him assessingly. Finally: "Well now you're speaking my langauge..." 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' The line about Thaarin cuts Zetha, but she doesn't show it. Soren doesn't even seem to take a breath while berating her, and then he's gone. The doors shut and she's alone with her thoughts in a place she'd rather not be. So she leaves the room also. Not to chase him down, but to get out of the club as quickly as possible. Though that does put her hot on Soren's trail. Likely even past him because she's booking it for the doors out as fast as her legs can take her. Though once she's outside, she just stands there for a moment before shaking her head. She pulls out her commlink while walking away and types a message to Soren while she walks. <<Don't read what you find in your pockets until you're home or in your office. Somewhere that no other eyes can see. Then talk to me again after you've read it. Also, you're an asshole. But if I wanted to be protected by any asshole, I'm glad it's you. Talk soon.>> Then it's going to be trying to make her way back home, though whether it's the junkyard or the convent is yet to be decided in her brain. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     [The bird knows] Cayde argues, forgetting that Mondrian doesn't know the creature is a bird. However, this time he actually does listen to her, although begrudgingly. Now what all had she even needed him here for, again?     [Does not matter now] he replies to Navi, with a dejected expression. But since he doesn't get to fly the ship, he's not sure what else there is to do here. So he goes to find the cage where the avian thing is and starts to leave back the way they'd come. 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     "Dank farrik!" Ellari curses as Blade suddenly retreats. << "He's disappeared into the gorge." >> she communicates to Volken, before turning the Amber Clad back toward the port. << "I hope you took care of that 'flea'." >> 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Mondrian pauses, looking pensive. Then she shrugs. "Fair enough, makes sense." "Great work today, by the way. You should talk to Kurrnak. I think you could be good at police work, or even get into PI work if you want to work more independently. Oh hey, you know a guy too, right? Arsok Vons. He's super well networked, I hear. He could get you some really good clients," she rambles. "Anyway, don't worry about the hole. I've got it." She sticks the piece of metal Navi had carved out earlier, sticks it into the hole, and then takes out a small welding tool. Once she's welded the metal back into place, she takes out a tiny little device that when stuck to the wall of the vessel near the hole, projects a hyper-realistic hologram over the welded metal. Now, it's impossible to see that anything was ever cut into. Then she turns around, dusting her hands off, and looks to Cayde, who appears upset. "Bird? What--Oh," she says, noticing the cage. She starts to follow Cayde out of the vessel. "Now, what's got you so upset? I told you, we can scout the area near the lab later. Just gotta wait. Are you really so impatient...??" Soren doesn't respond. But Zetha will find this typical. He'd never really lost his temper with her like he had today, but she'd definitely seen him in one of his brooding silent moods before and normally he'd take about 48 hours to respond when he was in one of those moods. So who knew how long he'd take this time. Her commlink is going off, though. She's got some text transmissions from Wiis and of course, the boyfriend, asking if she's home right now with three heart emojis. The security officer turns around, his smirk widening. "Yeah? I thought so. We can talk." He holds out a small data chip towards Volken. "You can hit up this frequency, whenever you're ready." Then he turns to leave once more. 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' <<He got away and I think either he or some smeone helping him has some sort of Jedei like mind powrs. My mind was flooded with wild images just before the flea was able to get clear of me. I'm dealing with the security forces now.>> The annoyance is clear in Volken's tone. Acidic even. But there's not much more to it other then the facts. As to the chip? Yes. Yes he takes it. He pinches it between massive fingers and just eyes the smirking officer .. and then nods. "Sure thing. Boss...." 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "Impatient and frustrated, likely. Neither one of us was trained or mentored in police work. We stepped up because someone had to," Navi replies to Mondrian. "Master Rykard could tell you the whole story. It's kind of long. Also, thanks for the kind words, but I mostly got lucky today. I don't know if I want to stay with this line of work once I leave Tenoo, which I'm honestly looking forward to. I'm amazed there's anything left of Whatever Bend, given how badly it started out, and how much fell apart while we were away on Ilum." 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha winces when she sees the text from Wiis, and then smiles at the one from Crane. She'll text Wiis, <<Had some business to take care of. On my way home now. Whatever it is. I didn't do it this time!>> and then Crane will get <<I'm heading back to the junkyard now. Is that where home is? See you soon!>> Before that makes up her mind and she heads towards the junkyard - likely breaking into a run since Wiis wants her home yesterday. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Once they've exited the vessel, Cayde lets the bird out of the cage, but instead of flying off, it follows him like an obedient dog.     [Nothing] he replies to her question, although he still looks rather disappointed. A shake of his head at the mention of Vons. [He does not like me] he tells her. 
}}

School and Politics

2025-12-20T02:31:01Z

Andromeda:

{{Log Header
|Date of Scene=2025-12-19
|Synopsis=Cayde and Thaarin visit the school in Kublop.
|Cast of Characters=159, 143
|pretty=yes
|Location=Kublop Springs - Tenoo - Outer Rim
}}
{{Poses
|Poses=:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Not much time has passed, since Cayde, Navi, and Mondrian had left the underground tunnels beneath the tram station. Little has transpired either, but as co-deputy, the young padawan's list of things to oversee and action upon is ever growing. And at the top of Cayde's ever increasing agenda is to visit the local school in Kublop and discuss with the principle and the mayor, a plan to put the children of Aklyrr Bend into the education system properly. Thaarin had agreed to accompany the young padawan, and Soren as well had said well that if any other needs arose, he could be available. He hadn't planned to return to the colony within the next couple days anyway, although he had not yet disclosed why. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde had finally sent a message to the superintendent requesting a visit, after staring at it for weeks. The wording is still kind of awkward, but at least it's not...unintentionally scandalous sounding any more.     So he and Thaarin head over to the school in Kublop at the agreed upon time. Truthfully, the young Jedi knows he's terrible at this sort of thing. But he has to learn it one way or another. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "You're going to do fine," the tall blue alien encourages. "And you know as well as I do that it will be good for you to be around peers." They approach the school, and immediately Cayde will be able to hear the cacophony that's children playing, talking, and even playing sports right outside the school. They've arrived just in time for school to be let out, and there's a crowd of kids ranging in age from ten to eighteen congregated there. They look up when Cayde approaches, some regard him with neutral looks, others look a bit confused, and a few give him condescending looks. "Let's go inside," Thaarin urges, ushering him past the stares of many children. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     [Thank you] he signs when Thaarin offers encouragement that he's going to do just fine.     He focuses on keeping the cacophony at bay, trying to remain rooted in the moment. As the students peer at him, he gives them all a friendly smile. [Hello] he signs to them, before following Thaarin inside. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Many of the children just look away, seeming a bit confused by his signing. They're younger, so probably don't know Basic Sign. Once inside, they'll venture down a hallway towards the principle's office. Waiting outside of it is the jolly mayor of Kublop, a broadly set elderly human man with twinkling eyes. "Hello there!" he greets warmly. "I've heard many a great thing about the co-deputies from Rykard. Cayde, I take it? Everyone here knows me as Mayor Niklas, but you can call me Hedge." He smiles and offers the young padawan a hand to shake. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Well...he tried, at least?     Cayde follows Thaarin down the hallway toward the office, finding the mayor of Kublop outside of it. The man's good natured demeanor somewhat reminds him of the former Chancellor.     He nods and bows slightly toward 'Hedge'. [Yes I am...good to meet you mayor] he signs. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Thaarin greets and shakes the hand of the mayor after Cayde, and then the door opens. On the other side is the principle, who seems equally delighted to have Cayde and Thaarin here. "Come into my office and make yourself at home," the principle says. He then nods at the mayor and smiles - they seem quite familiar with one another. Once they've settled in, the principle turns to Cayde. "So," he says, "tell me about the children of Aklyrr Bend...?" 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde enters the office and sits down in front of the desk, noticing it seems the school administrator and the mayor are quite familiar with each other. Well it was a small town, after all.     He looks pensive at the question, trying to find the right words to use. [They are good children...need education but no school in Aklyrr...want to...] a pause. [They want to learn...want to be useful] 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' The principal pauses, looking slightly dissatisfied. "... ah, I mean, yes, that's all well and good. But I was hoping you could tell me more about them as people. They're 'good', but how so? And how old are most of them? How many of them are there? How do the parents feel?" Thaarin just nods encouragingly at Cayde, indicating that he wants Cayde to try to answer all of the principal's questions. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Another pause, and this one takes a bit longer.     [Most ten to fourteen...a few younger...maybe thirty age for school...] Cayde estimates on the number. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' The principal frowns pensively as if trying to understand what Cayde is trying to say, and Hedge blinks, apparently a bit confused. Thaarin's expression becomes dangerously neutral, which Cayde will immediately recognize as the Chiss man's reaction whenever he's internally cringing. "What he means is that there's at most, 30 children who would be eligible to be enrolled in school," Thaarin explains. He casts a sidelong glance at Cayde. "Oh-h-h, I see," the principal says. "Well, unfortunately, I think that's probably more than our school can currently enroll..." 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde pouts slightly...well, he tried his best...there were so many questions.     [Sorry] he signs quickly, then arches a brow at the man when he tells them 30 is too many. [Why] he asks. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "Well," the principal explains. "There's two, mainly. First of all, our classrooms were only designed to host at maximum, fifteen students. And with next year's enrollment looking to increase twenty percent, I don't know that we would even be able to fit all of the new students in the classrooms. Second of all, thirty new students is the size of two new classes. We don't have enough staff to maintain the five to one ratio of teachers to students. I'm also slightly concerned about transportation. It takes an hour to come to Kublop from Aklyrr, and an hour to return. It could be stressful for the children to be traveling that much everyday to go to school." 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     [Tax from Aklyrr...to expand] Cayde offers. Yes, he's been studying some of this kind of management stuff, although it is incredibly boring. [Travel...better than no school] he points out. [But maybe not all] There were a few families handling their own education. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' The principal looks thoughtful. "Well, yes, perhaps, but I'm not sure how the parents feel--" "Actually," the mayor interjects, "I had an idea. There may be other sources of ah, -willing- funding right here in Kublop. I'd like to elaborate, if you don't mind," he says, glancing over at Cayde. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde frowns, thinking about what Kublop's families could get in return for their taxes probably being raised. Maybe, bigger and better school programs and facilities?     But then the mayor seems to have a proposition. [Okay] he signs, nodding to Hedge. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "I've been talking to the Disciples at the convent, and we've had quite a few discussions about their desire to help contribute to the community here in Kublop in a more meaningful way," the mayor says. "I was thinking, that if they're willing, they could sell the convent back to local government, which would then in turn convert it into a new school campus, that could serve as a boarding school for any children that wanted to reduce commuting. The Disciples would remain there, and be given some real estate for their duties to their religious order, but would also help staff the new campus, and perhaps the Temple back on Jedha would be willing to help fund a large portion of this effort." "The rest we'd have to figure out, but it would be less than if we just raised taxes all around to hire more staff and expand the campus we have now." 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde nods at the idea. It sounds promising, at least. However, he is then reminded of 'Crane's' true identity. Was it a good idea for him to be around schoolchildren every day?     [...have they heard about this] he asks. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "Well, to a degree, I suppose. We had chatted about mutual interests, and one of them was further development of future generations. So in a way, yes." The mayor says. He then looks to Thaarin, who nods. "I think it's an excellent idea," Thaarin says, "you could present it to the Disciples, and see what they think." He glances over at Cayde. "And then you could ask the families back at Aklyrr Bend if they'd be interested in such an initiative." 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde listens to what is being suggested, nodding slightly and trying to appear unfazed but the color is draining from his face a bit.     But he nods slowly anyway. [...okay...okay I will] he signs, pursing his lips. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "Oh no," Hedge says when Cayde pales, "is everything alright?" "Why don't you give us a tour of the campus here?" Thaarin suddenly suggests, standing. "So Cayde can have a better understanding of who might end up being peers of the students from Aklyrr, and some of the programs and facilities that could or should be offered at the new one." The principal nods hastily, seeming to feel a bit awkward at the sudden subject change. "Oh, yes, right. That's a good idea." 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde nods quickly. [Yes I am okay] he signs.     [Yes okay let us go] he agrees enthusiastically at the idea of a tour. He stands, and goes to wait by the door. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Hedge seems a little surprised at Cayde's abrupt reassurance and then sudden departure to the door immediately after, but he doesn't say anything. The principal follows Cayde to the door and then leads the way out into the hallway. Next, he shows them towards rear the school campus, where all of the after school programs are held. Cayde will see a few classrooms filled with five to ten kids of varying ages studiously working on homework while a teacher supervises. They venture into one of them - this one appears to be some kind of crafting and home economics enrichment afterschool program - there's a couple of kids working on art projects, while the rest are bent over a recipe and a single burner in the back of the classroom. Something smells burned. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde is still pondering over 'Crane' and whether Amarik would be a good influence here as he follows them toward the back. But maybe not all of them would have to help with work at the school?     Upon entering the classroom where the program is being held, he seems interested in the art projects and goes over to see what they're working on. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' They seem super focused on what they're doing, so they don't notice Cayde right away. The principal seems to be waiting for the right time to interject and introduce Cayde when one of the girls working on her project looks up and sees Cayde. She screams quietly and jerks away from Cayde, dropping her pencil, startled. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde was waiting for someone to look up or happen to step away for a moment, so he could ask them about what they're working on without interrupting anything. He was just about to ask the girl who happened to look up, but she squeaks suddenly and drops something. The writing utensil falls, but doesn't hit the floor. Instead, it seems to stop in midair, then float gently back onto her desk.     The padawan comes to stand next to her then, peering down at whatever she's working on. [Sorry about that] he signs to her. [It is very nice] he remarks about her work. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "Y-You startled me," she says, looking frightened. She watches as the pencil floats back down onto her desk. "Thank you," she says quietly and timidly. "This is Cayde," the principal finally interjects. "He's one of the co-deputies of Aklyrr Bend. He's going to be helping some of the kids from Aklyrr Bend come to school here," he says. She nods, looking embarrassed still. "It's... it's nice to meet you," she says quietly. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     [I hope so] Cayde replies to the principal's comment.     He pats the girl on the shoulder as she still seems nervous. [It is okay...and what is your name] he asks her. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "Mafa," the girl says. She still seems nervous and maybe a little scared. She moves away from Cayde's hand. "She's very shy," the teacher who's supervising suddenly says, coming over. "But very smart, and very artistic!" She smiles at Mafa. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     [Good to meet you Mafa] Cayde replies, carefully spelling out his best estimation of her name in letter sign.     He nods at the teacher, then smiles warmly toward her, again looking down at her art. [It is very beautiful] he tells her. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Mafa just nods, but doesn't look at Cayde. "Thank you," she says quietly, fiddling with her pencil nervously. "Do you want to draw something too?" 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde shifts his position a bit to move in front of her line of sight when she doesn't look at him, assuming she wants an answer to her question, anyway.     [Sure I can] he then replies to her. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' She nods, chewing on her pencil a bit, then hands Cayde a piece of flimsiplast and a few markers. Then she goes back to working on her art project. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde takes the flimsiplast and markers a little bit awkwardly. Back on Coruscant, this stuff was barely used any more. Nonetheless, he sketches out a moderately accurate image of a vase being used as a still life subject. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "That's very nice," Hedge remarks, looking over Cayde's shoulder. Thaarin seems very content to just watch Cayde draw in silence, though Cayde won't find this behavior to be uncommon for the Chiss man. The principal and the teacher have distracted themselves in a side conversation about the budget for afterschool programs, but Mafa seems fascinated by Cayde's drawing. When he's finished, she asks, "Can I add to it?" 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     [Thank you] Cayde replies to Hedge. He was about to offer the drawing to the mayor, but then Mafa asks if she can add to it. Nodding, he hands her the drawing and the markers. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Mafa takes the drawing and colors in the background. Then she offers it to the mayor, who seems to know Mafa already. Well, Kublop is small, so it isn't surprising. But Thaarin is tapping him on the shoulder. "We should probably get going," he says, "It was very nice meeting you all, but the last tram back to Aklyrr will be leaving soon." 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Huh, well that was exactly what he'd been thinking. Had he accidentally projected to her? Hopefully, it hadn't done any harm.     [Okay] Cayde nods to Thaarin, though he looks a little disappointed. They'd only seen one classroom. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Maybe. Mafa smiles knowingly and suddenly hugs his arm. Then she runs off, to the back of the classroom where some of the older kids are trying to figure out how to make noodle soup. "We can come back another time," he says, looking to the principal, who nods. "We'd be happy to have you anytime," the principal reassures Cayde. "Next time you're in Kublop, stop by. I'll be here, along with all my staff." 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde pats Mafa on the shoulder again when she hugs his arm. Well, she seems to have enjoyed the interaction, overall. So...that was a good thing.     [Okay...thank you] he replies. [I will come...in other times] 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' The principal nods. "Of course, my pleasure." "Excellent!" Hedge says. He seems excited. "You can come by the Mayor's Manor anytime as well. I'm so glad to have gotten to meet you in person!" he says enthusiastically. "We'll meet again soon, and I'm sure I'll have an update for you from the Disciples by then." Then he and the principal both turn to leave. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde lingers a moment, watching them leave. His gaze goes back over to Mafa as she is helping with the cooking project, then back to Thaarin.     [How I do] he asks. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Thaarin ushers him out of the school first. "It was alright," He tells the young padawan. "Could have been worse, that's for certain. But it wasn't, so that's progress." 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde deflates a bit. Maybe he expected better. [...it is hard...for me] he sighs. [I thought about it a long time] 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Thaarin laughs quietly. "I know it's hard," he says, patting Cayde on the shoulder. "It will take time to become better at these things, Cayde. Don't expect to overcome it all in a single night. Now, let's hurry to the platform. It's getting late." 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     [But... I am better...right] Cayde asks, looking for a confirmation even as he starts toward the tram station. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "Yes..." Thaarin says. "You are. You're better than you used to be. So that's good." 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     [...thank you Thaarin] Really, Cayde needed that. He nods and hurries onto the train, settling in for the ride back. 
}}

School and Politics

2025-12-20T02:30:38Z

Andromeda: Created page with "{{Log Header |Date of Scene=2025-12-19 |Synopsis=Cayde and Thaarin visit the school in Kublop. |Cast of Characters=159, 143 |pretty=yes }} {{Poses |Poses=:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Not much time has passed, since Cayde, Navi, and Mondrian had left the underground tunnels beneath the tram station. Little has transpired either, but as co-deputy, the young padawan's list of things to oversee and action upon is ever growing. And at the top of Cay..."

{{Log Header
|Date of Scene=2025-12-19
|Synopsis=Cayde and Thaarin visit the school in Kublop.
|Cast of Characters=159, 143
|pretty=yes
}}
{{Poses
|Poses=:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Not much time has passed, since Cayde, Navi, and Mondrian had left the underground tunnels beneath the tram station. Little has transpired either, but as co-deputy, the young padawan's list of things to oversee and action upon is ever growing. And at the top of Cayde's ever increasing agenda is to visit the local school in Kublop and discuss with the principle and the mayor, a plan to put the children of Aklyrr Bend into the education system properly. Thaarin had agreed to accompany the young padawan, and Soren as well had said well that if any other needs arose, he could be available. He hadn't planned to return to the colony within the next couple days anyway, although he had not yet disclosed why. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde had finally sent a message to the superintendent requesting a visit, after staring at it for weeks. The wording is still kind of awkward, but at least it's not...unintentionally scandalous sounding any more.     So he and Thaarin head over to the school in Kublop at the agreed upon time. Truthfully, the young Jedi knows he's terrible at this sort of thing. But he has to learn it one way or another. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "You're going to do fine," the tall blue alien encourages. "And you know as well as I do that it will be good for you to be around peers." They approach the school, and immediately Cayde will be able to hear the cacophony that's children playing, talking, and even playing sports right outside the school. They've arrived just in time for school to be let out, and there's a crowd of kids ranging in age from ten to eighteen congregated there. They look up when Cayde approaches, some regard him with neutral looks, others look a bit confused, and a few give him condescending looks. "Let's go inside," Thaarin urges, ushering him past the stares of many children. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     [Thank you] he signs when Thaarin offers encouragement that he's going to do just fine.     He focuses on keeping the cacophony at bay, trying to remain rooted in the moment. As the students peer at him, he gives them all a friendly smile. [Hello] he signs to them, before following Thaarin inside. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Many of the children just look away, seeming a bit confused by his signing. They're younger, so probably don't know Basic Sign. Once inside, they'll venture down a hallway towards the principle's office. Waiting outside of it is the jolly mayor of Kublop, a broadly set elderly human man with twinkling eyes. "Hello there!" he greets warmly. "I've heard many a great thing about the co-deputies from Rykard. Cayde, I take it? Everyone here knows me as Mayor Niklas, but you can call me Hedge." He smiles and offers the young padawan a hand to shake. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Well...he tried, at least?     Cayde follows Thaarin down the hallway toward the office, finding the mayor of Kublop outside of it. The man's good natured demeanor somewhat reminds him of the former Chancellor.     He nods and bows slightly toward 'Hedge'. [Yes I am...good to meet you mayor] he signs. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Thaarin greets and shakes the hand of the mayor after Cayde, and then the door opens. On the other side is the principle, who seems equally delighted to have Cayde and Thaarin here. "Come into my office and make yourself at home," the principle says. He then nods at the mayor and smiles - they seem quite familiar with one another. Once they've settled in, the principle turns to Cayde. "So," he says, "tell me about the children of Aklyrr Bend...?" 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde enters the office and sits down in front of the desk, noticing it seems the school administrator and the mayor are quite familiar with each other. Well it was a small town, after all.     He looks pensive at the question, trying to find the right words to use. [They are good children...need education but no school in Aklyrr...want to...] a pause. [They want to learn...want to be useful] 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' The principal pauses, looking slightly dissatisfied. "... ah, I mean, yes, that's all well and good. But I was hoping you could tell me more about them as people. They're 'good', but how so? And how old are most of them? How many of them are there? How do the parents feel?" Thaarin just nods encouragingly at Cayde, indicating that he wants Cayde to try to answer all of the principal's questions. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Another pause, and this one takes a bit longer.     [Most ten to fourteen...a few younger...maybe thirty age for school...] Cayde estimates on the number. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' The principal frowns pensively as if trying to understand what Cayde is trying to say, and Hedge blinks, apparently a bit confused. Thaarin's expression becomes dangerously neutral, which Cayde will immediately recognize as the Chiss man's reaction whenever he's internally cringing. "What he means is that there's at most, 30 children who would be eligible to be enrolled in school," Thaarin explains. He casts a sidelong glance at Cayde. "Oh-h-h, I see," the principal says. "Well, unfortunately, I think that's probably more than our school can currently enroll..." 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde pouts slightly...well, he tried his best...there were so many questions.     [Sorry] he signs quickly, then arches a brow at the man when he tells them 30 is too many. [Why] he asks. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "Well," the principal explains. "There's two, mainly. First of all, our classrooms were only designed to host at maximum, fifteen students. And with next year's enrollment looking to increase twenty percent, I don't know that we would even be able to fit all of the new students in the classrooms. Second of all, thirty new students is the size of two new classes. We don't have enough staff to maintain the five to one ratio of teachers to students. I'm also slightly concerned about transportation. It takes an hour to come to Kublop from Aklyrr, and an hour to return. It could be stressful for the children to be traveling that much everyday to go to school." 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     [Tax from Aklyrr...to expand] Cayde offers. Yes, he's been studying some of this kind of management stuff, although it is incredibly boring. [Travel...better than no school] he points out. [But maybe not all] There were a few families handling their own education. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' The principal looks thoughtful. "Well, yes, perhaps, but I'm not sure how the parents feel--" "Actually," the mayor interjects, "I had an idea. There may be other sources of ah, -willing- funding right here in Kublop. I'd like to elaborate, if you don't mind," he says, glancing over at Cayde. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde frowns, thinking about what Kublop's families could get in return for their taxes probably being raised. Maybe, bigger and better school programs and facilities?     But then the mayor seems to have a proposition. [Okay] he signs, nodding to Hedge. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "I've been talking to the Disciples at the convent, and we've had quite a few discussions about their desire to help contribute to the community here in Kublop in a more meaningful way," the mayor says. "I was thinking, that if they're willing, they could sell the convent back to local government, which would then in turn convert it into a new school campus, that could serve as a boarding school for any children that wanted to reduce commuting. The Disciples would remain there, and be given some real estate for their duties to their religious order, but would also help staff the new campus, and perhaps the Temple back on Jedha would be willing to help fund a large portion of this effort." "The rest we'd have to figure out, but it would be less than if we just raised taxes all around to hire more staff and expand the campus we have now." 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde nods at the idea. It sounds promising, at least. However, he is then reminded of 'Crane's' true identity. Was it a good idea for him to be around schoolchildren every day?     [...have they heard about this] he asks. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "Well, to a degree, I suppose. We had chatted about mutual interests, and one of them was further development of future generations. So in a way, yes." The mayor says. He then looks to Thaarin, who nods. "I think it's an excellent idea," Thaarin says, "you could present it to the Disciples, and see what they think." He glances over at Cayde. "And then you could ask the families back at Aklyrr Bend if they'd be interested in such an initiative." 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde listens to what is being suggested, nodding slightly and trying to appear unfazed but the color is draining from his face a bit.     But he nods slowly anyway. [...okay...okay I will] he signs, pursing his lips. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "Oh no," Hedge says when Cayde pales, "is everything alright?" "Why don't you give us a tour of the campus here?" Thaarin suddenly suggests, standing. "So Cayde can have a better understanding of who might end up being peers of the students from Aklyrr, and some of the programs and facilities that could or should be offered at the new one." The principal nods hastily, seeming to feel a bit awkward at the sudden subject change. "Oh, yes, right. That's a good idea." 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde nods quickly. [Yes I am okay] he signs.     [Yes okay let us go] he agrees enthusiastically at the idea of a tour. He stands, and goes to wait by the door. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Hedge seems a little surprised at Cayde's abrupt reassurance and then sudden departure to the door immediately after, but he doesn't say anything. The principal follows Cayde to the door and then leads the way out into the hallway. Next, he shows them towards rear the school campus, where all of the after school programs are held. Cayde will see a few classrooms filled with five to ten kids of varying ages studiously working on homework while a teacher supervises. They venture into one of them - this one appears to be some kind of crafting and home economics enrichment afterschool program - there's a couple of kids working on art projects, while the rest are bent over a recipe and a single burner in the back of the classroom. Something smells burned. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde is still pondering over 'Crane' and whether Amarik would be a good influence here as he follows them toward the back. But maybe not all of them would have to help with work at the school?     Upon entering the classroom where the program is being held, he seems interested in the art projects and goes over to see what they're working on. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' They seem super focused on what they're doing, so they don't notice Cayde right away. The principal seems to be waiting for the right time to interject and introduce Cayde when one of the girls working on her project looks up and sees Cayde. She screams quietly and jerks away from Cayde, dropping her pencil, startled. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde was waiting for someone to look up or happen to step away for a moment, so he could ask them about what they're working on without interrupting anything. He was just about to ask the girl who happened to look up, but she squeaks suddenly and drops something. The writing utensil falls, but doesn't hit the floor. Instead, it seems to stop in midair, then float gently back onto her desk.     The padawan comes to stand next to her then, peering down at whatever she's working on. [Sorry about that] he signs to her. [It is very nice] he remarks about her work. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "Y-You startled me," she says, looking frightened. She watches as the pencil floats back down onto her desk. "Thank you," she says quietly and timidly. "This is Cayde," the principal finally interjects. "He's one of the co-deputies of Aklyrr Bend. He's going to be helping some of the kids from Aklyrr Bend come to school here," he says. She nods, looking embarrassed still. "It's... it's nice to meet you," she says quietly. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     [I hope so] Cayde replies to the principal's comment.     He pats the girl on the shoulder as she still seems nervous. [It is okay...and what is your name] he asks her. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "Mafa," the girl says. She still seems nervous and maybe a little scared. She moves away from Cayde's hand. "She's very shy," the teacher who's supervising suddenly says, coming over. "But very smart, and very artistic!" She smiles at Mafa. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     [Good to meet you Mafa] Cayde replies, carefully spelling out his best estimation of her name in letter sign.     He nods at the teacher, then smiles warmly toward her, again looking down at her art. [It is very beautiful] he tells her. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Mafa just nods, but doesn't look at Cayde. "Thank you," she says quietly, fiddling with her pencil nervously. "Do you want to draw something too?" 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde shifts his position a bit to move in front of her line of sight when she doesn't look at him, assuming she wants an answer to her question, anyway.     [Sure I can] he then replies to her. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' She nods, chewing on her pencil a bit, then hands Cayde a piece of flimsiplast and a few markers. Then she goes back to working on her art project. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde takes the flimsiplast and markers a little bit awkwardly. Back on Coruscant, this stuff was barely used any more. Nonetheless, he sketches out a moderately accurate image of a vase being used as a still life subject. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "That's very nice," Hedge remarks, looking over Cayde's shoulder. Thaarin seems very content to just watch Cayde draw in silence, though Cayde won't find this behavior to be uncommon for the Chiss man. The principal and the teacher have distracted themselves in a side conversation about the budget for afterschool programs, but Mafa seems fascinated by Cayde's drawing. When he's finished, she asks, "Can I add to it?" 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     [Thank you] Cayde replies to Hedge. He was about to offer the drawing to the mayor, but then Mafa asks if she can add to it. Nodding, he hands her the drawing and the markers. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Mafa takes the drawing and colors in the background. Then she offers it to the mayor, who seems to know Mafa already. Well, Kublop is small, so it isn't surprising. But Thaarin is tapping him on the shoulder. "We should probably get going," he says, "It was very nice meeting you all, but the last tram back to Aklyrr will be leaving soon." 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Huh, well that was exactly what he'd been thinking. Had he accidentally projected to her? Hopefully, it hadn't done any harm.     [Okay] Cayde nods to Thaarin, though he looks a little disappointed. They'd only seen one classroom. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Maybe. Mafa smiles knowingly and suddenly hugs his arm. Then she runs off, to the back of the classroom where some of the older kids are trying to figure out how to make noodle soup. "We can come back another time," he says, looking to the principal, who nods. "We'd be happy to have you anytime," the principal reassures Cayde. "Next time you're in Kublop, stop by. I'll be here, along with all my staff." 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde pats Mafa on the shoulder again when she hugs his arm. Well, she seems to have enjoyed the interaction, overall. So...that was a good thing.     [Okay...thank you] he replies. [I will come...in other times] 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' The principal nods. "Of course, my pleasure." "Excellent!" Hedge says. He seems excited. "You can come by the Mayor's Manor anytime as well. I'm so glad to have gotten to meet you in person!" he says enthusiastically. "We'll meet again soon, and I'm sure I'll have an update for you from the Disciples by then." Then he and the principal both turn to leave. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde lingers a moment, watching them leave. His gaze goes back over to Mafa as she is helping with the cooking project, then back to Thaarin.     [How I do] he asks. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Thaarin ushers him out of the school first. "It was alright," He tells the young padawan. "Could have been worse, that's for certain. But it wasn't, so that's progress." 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde deflates a bit. Maybe he expected better. [...it is hard...for me] he sighs. [I thought about it a long time] 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Thaarin laughs quietly. "I know it's hard," he says, patting Cayde on the shoulder. "It will take time to become better at these things, Cayde. Don't expect to overcome it all in a single night. Now, let's hurry to the platform. It's getting late." 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     [But... I am better...right] Cayde asks, looking for a confirmation even as he starts toward the tram station. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "Yes..." Thaarin says. "You are. You're better than you used to be. So that's good." 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     [...thank you Thaarin] Really, Cayde needed that. He nods and hurries onto the train, settling in for the ride back. 
}}

Character Advancement

2025-12-18T04:50:44Z

Andromeda:

__toc__
Character upgrades are intended to be an incentive for players to go above and beyond what is expected of them. The more a player contributes to the game by taking initiative, generating RP for others, and/or running TPs, the more likely staff is to approve higher level upgrades or to allow a character to max out their skills or Attribute scores.

== Voting ==
Players are permitted to upgrade their characters using Experience Points or XP that may be awarded by other players based on the following criteria:

# Both the voter and the target are registered to the specified sceneID
#The targeted player has sent at least 3 poses to the specified sceneID.
#The voter has not already voted for the targeted player in association with the specified sceneID.
#The voter has not already voted for the targeted player in association with any sceneID at all within the past 24 hours.
#Neither the voter nor the target is a guest.
#The specified sceneID was created within the past 14 days.
#The specified sceneID contains at least 8 poses total.
#The targeted character is not the voter, nor is it registered to the voter's account.

To see how to award votes, view '''+help +vote.'''

==Experience Points (XP)==
Every vote is worth 1 XP. XP can be used to purchase points according to the table below. A minimum of 2 Specialization Points may be purchased at a time. A minimum of 5 XP must be spent per upgrade request.
{| class="wikitable"
!
! colspan="4" |Point Type
|-
!
!'''Attribute'''
!'''Skill'''
!'''Specialization'''
!'''Trait'''
|-
|XP
|12
|5
|2.5
|3
|}

==Application==
Please submit upgrade requests through the '''Job''' system with '''+request/adv <CharacterName UpgradeName>=<content>'''. This will submit an upgrade request into the Advancement job bucket. Be sure to include details about the exact upgrade(s) you are requesting, along with the cost of each upgrade. Please provide the number of XP you will be spending, and the number of each point type you are purchasing for your upgrade. In the case of some significant upgrades, we may ask you to provide links to logs justifying the upgrade. Staff will review your application and respond, hopefully within 48 hours. Jobs that are waiting on player input for more 48 hours may be closed without warning. If the job is approved, staff will apply the upgrade. You may use [https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1_1_4_PCvIT8rGYlYVqxneDSrpZlniiIWNpl1MjIeTKk/edit?usp=sharing this worksheet] to help with the calculations.
[[Category:Systems]]
[[Category:Chargen]]
[[Category:Policy]]
[[Category:Guides]]

Another Session

2025-12-08T03:09:58Z

Andromeda:

{{Log Header
|Date of Scene=2025-12-05
|Cast of Characters=159, 444
|pretty=yes
|Location=Kublop Springs - Tenoo - Outer Rim
}}
{{Poses
|Poses=:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' It's a quiet afternoon in Kublop, and whether or not Zetha is at the convent, or the junkyard, she'll be getting a couple expected text transmissions from two of the people she's closest with on Tenoo. There's one from the doctor, sending her a friendly reminder about their scheduled therapy session that's in about couple of hours, and then there's one from Wiis, asking her to head over to the house soon because the contractors would be coming to work on it in an hour or so. Why Wiis isn't at the house right now herself will remain a mystery for now, but it isn't unusual for her to frequent the town to do business with some of the customers who didn't really want to or couldn't visit the junkyard... 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha is laying in her hammock in the junkyard. She's gotten a little more comfortable spending time outside since having been threatened at blaster point. That was a fun day. When the texts come in, she'll reply to Wiis first. Let her know that she's at the junkyard and will supervise the contractors. Make everything pink. Or purple. Especially Wiis' own room. That would totally be pink. Then she smirks. The next text goes to the doctor. <<Hey doc. Not sure if I'll make it today. Gotta wait for Wiis to come back to the house and until then there's people arriving shorttly to do some work.>> Then she goes back to reading her holo-book. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' The doctor replies almost immediately (uncharacteristic for him): <Don't worry. If you need to be a half hour late, I've got a little time to spare. Besides, even if you don't want to do our regular session today, I'd like to see you anyway. There's going to be some changes around Kublop and the colony starting likely tomorrow or the day after, and there will be more to come even after that. And I don't want you to be in the dark about any of it.> She might be about to dive back into her holobook when she'll hear a rather unceremonious crash coming from the house. It sounds very Twozee coded. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' <<Regular session is fine, but I'll stop by either way as soon as I can. See you soon!>> Is sent back just before she settles in with her holo-book. That's when she hears the crash which causes her to hop out of the hammock and jog into the house. "Two-zee? Are you alright?" As if a droid could be harmed in any way. Still, Zetha has a raport with droids. But she's rather curious what sort of scene she's about to jog into. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' <Alright. Just try not to be an hour late> That had probably happened once. Or twice, but it had always been some customer strolling in at the last minute needing some urgent thing that in the end, wasn't quite urgent after all. "Oh... ah...." Well, that was never a good prelude, especially not when it's Twozee. "Zetha, do you think you could come inside for a moment... I think I accidentally fried my transmitter..." 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha's not going to reply to that one. Though she will text Wiis <<When do you think you'll be home? I have a session with Doctor Cassias in a couple hours.>> Then she'll walk into the house to take care of Twozee. "How in the galaxy did you manage to fry your transmitter?" Asking this as she grabs her bag of tools - one of many she likely has stowed around the house and outside in the junkyard proper - "I'm beginning to think that if I ever leave this planet I'll have to take you with me just to make sure you don't fry something else on accident..." 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' No response from Wiis .. not right away, anyway. But that's not unusual. Well, Zetha might be in for a very unpleasant surprise when she goes inside the house. See, since she'd been staying in the old ship she and Thaarin had been working on off and on, but otherwise sleeping at the convent, she'd likely had very little reason to come in the front door. Perhaps she'll be happy she hadn't. The house is an -utter- wreck. The contractors had clearly come and done some work already, torn down some old walls and ripped away the molding baseboard in the kitchen area, but Wiis had NOT made any attempt whatsoever to clear away any belongings in a reasonable fashion. There's piles and piles of both garbage as well as items used on a daily basis like utensils and laundry just sitting in mountainous heaps that Zetha will have to precariously make her way around to get to Twozee. Dirty dishes line the kitchen counter, along with clean AND dirty undergarments. Twozee is standing in the doorway to the dining room, its helm sparking with wires sticking out, and tapping its fingers together a bit nervously. "I, well, I was..." A pause. "I was trying to clean some of the dishes, but the quadruple cup tea warmer was stacked on top of yesterday's take out, which was on top of all the dishes--" "And the problem is that I'm trying to reach out to the contractors to reschedule them to come back oh, maybe several hours from now or tomorrow, but now that my transmitter is fried, I can't, and I.. I actually don't remember their personal frequency. It's probably on a datapad somewhere here... but... ah..." 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' No response from Wiis .. not right away, anyway. But that's not unusual. Well, Zetha might be in for a very unpleasant surprise when she goes inside the house. See, since she'd been staying in the old ship she and Thaarin had been working on off and on, but otherwise sleeping at the convent, she'd likely had very little reason to come in the front door. Perhaps she'll be happy she hadn't. The house is an -utter- wreck. The contractors had clearly come and done some work already, torn down some old walls and ripped away the molding baseboard in the kitchen area, but Wiis had NOT made any attempt whatsoever to clear away any belongings in a reasonable fashion. There's piles and piles of both garbage as well as items used on a daily basis like utensils and laundry just sitting in mountainous heaps that Zetha will have to precariously make her way around to get to Twozee. Dirty dishes line the kitchen counter, along with clean AND dirty undergarments. Twozee is standing in the doorway to the dining room, its helm sparking with wires sticking out, and tapping its fingers together a bit nervously. "I, well, I was..." A pause. "I was trying to clean some of the dishes, but the quadruple cup tea warmer was stacked on top of yesterday's take out, which was on top of all the dishes--" "And the problem is that I'm trying to reach out to the contractors to reschedule them to come back oh, maybe several hours from now or tomorrow, but now that my transmitter is fried, I can't, and I.. I actually don't remember their personal frequency. It's probably on a datapad somewhere here... but... ah..." It will be obvious to Zetha that there's no way the contractors can do any more work... not until the place gets cleaned up some. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha just sort of stops when she sees the chaos. Oh goddess bless so much chaos. "Did Wiis not attempt to clean up -anything-?" The answer is obviously no and then she internalizes more upset because she wasn't even told contractors had begun to work on the house so there would have been no way for her to know that any of this work needed to be done. Right then. "Alright. Think Zetha." She says this aloud but to herself as she weaves around piles of stuff, goes a little pale at the sight of...clothing garments...that she thought was long ago's trash. "I'm going to kill her. Not really. But for kriff's sake..." This is going to take forever, she has an appointment to make, and Twozee needs fixing. The transmitter might be the easiest thing on the ever growing list. "Right then. Your transmitter first, Twozee, cause I'm not going to try to find a datapad in all this mess. We need to call off the contractors for today...which I need to text Wiis about..." But first. Fixing Twozee time! 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Oh no. It's -bad-. Yes, the transmitter is an easy fix. She could probably go out into the junkyard right now, find a working one and stick it on. The problem is, not only is the transmitter busted but it looks like Twozee's memory banks have been damaged pretty badly and some of the internal circuitry on the core processor has been completely melded to the inside of its helm chassis. If she looks deeper, she'll see that one of the heating coils from the cup warmer had actually fallen inside of Twozee, into a little crevice that is going to take finesse to get out without causing further damage. What a mess. "Z-Zetha? I don't remember you coming in here," the droid says, "Were you--" But before the droid can finish its sentence there's a knock on a door. A familiar voice asks politely. "Zetha? May I come in?" It would seem Crane has chosen a rather terrible time to visit. Or perhaps the perfect time. It all depends on how Zetha sees it... 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "Don't worry Twozee. You've got a couple things wrong with you. Mercy me what have you been doing with yourself?" There's finesse pulling out that coil, and then she sighs. "I gotta go find you another transmitter, and some of your memory banks look fried too. I can replace the transmitter. I don't know if I have time to fix -everything- right now. Cause I might need you on a table." She looks around again and sighs. "A clean...ish...table..." But while she's working and talking to Twozee she hears the knock and glances over and there's a little of both relief and annoyance on her face. "Hey Crane..." While she's got her hand inside Twozee's back. "Come in. Can you do me a favor? In the first room on the right there's a box filled with...gizmos..." Technical term. "I need the one that looks like a cylinder about the length of a finger with spokes coming out of either end." Cause Zetha keeps the -good- stuff in her bedroom. Which is likely torn asunder, her floor mattress is likely a little more tattered than she'd like anyone to see, but she can't just run and get what she needs at the moment. Crane will just have to judge her on her limited existence. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "Oh..uh.. I don't know...I suppose that would explain why I can't seem to remember much all of a sudden." The droid flinches when she says 'table'. "A table?! Oh my. Is it.. is it really that bad?" Crane attempts to come inside but nearly walks into the massive pile of junk obstructing 60 percent of the doorway. He just barely manages to slide past it without knocking anything over. "Right," he says, "what happened here?" He goes into her bedroom, and right when Zetha might think he's taking too long, he emerges carefully (so he doesn't step on all the stuff literally everywhere) with three items. "I wasn't sure which one you wanted," he says, "I'm no mechanic." She might realize that her description had been a bit vague because all three are cylindrical with spokes coming out of either end. "Sorry," he says. Then he immediately goes into the kitchen and starts washing the dishes. However, the ancient undergarments are all there too... 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "Well it isn't -good- Twozee...you're all gunked up and I am not going to stand around while fixing it all. But it's not terrible..." Zetha offers and then looks over to where Crane goes into her room and then returns. "Contractors. And apparently Wiis didn't clean anything up. She also didn't tell me they had already been working on things." Then she watches as he moves to just...start washing dishes. "You don't...need to do that...I can get it done. Or Twozee can once I get him...fixed..." No, no, YES! That was the one she wanted. So she starts to work on replacing the transmitter. "Twozee. Once you're back online and can transmit stuff, I need you to contact the contractors and have them delay their arrival. Until like, tomorrow. Or the next day. They can't come here and keep working in all this mess." She says. "I may have to cancel on Doctor Cassias all together today and see him tomorrow..." 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "Ohhh. Oh no. I'm sorry," the droid apologizes for no reason. The transmitter is a breeze, at least. That will take her all of five to ten minutes. Next, she'll start peeling the melted internal circuitry off the inside of its chassis. It's tedious work, but at least she makes good progress. "Wait," Crane comments, "But isn't that why she didn't want you staying in the house after the Mandalorians came?" He ignores her when she tells him he doesn't need to do that. "The contractors? What contractors? Oh, right. The contractors -- er, what time were they coming again today?" Twozee stammers. When she says that she'll have to cancel on Doctor Cassias, Crane frowns and pauses doing the dishes. "Zetha..." "It's alright. I'll take care of everything. You can finish up with Twozee and then head down to Aklyrr Bend." 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "Who said I'm staying in the house?" Zetha offers and then shrugs. "Wiis is likely out running errands and asked me to wait for the contractors but they can't come with all this mess and..." Zetha trails off as Crane asks more questions. "I don't know. Wiis just asked me to supervise them, but I have that appointment which I may not make now and so..." She finishes what she can with Twozee. "Don't apologize Twozee, it's not your fault. I'm sorry I haven't been paying better attention to you and keeping you maintained." It's kinda part of her job. And she wanted to say that before she forgot to. Then she hears Crane's comment about how he can take care of everything. "I...I couldn't ask you to do that, Crane..." She shakes her head. "Doctor Cassias will understand and this isn't even your mess..so..you don't need to take care of it. It'll be fine..." 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "Oh, but it is!" Twozee says. "I didn't tell you my last maintenance was over six months ago. I..." But then the droid trails off, watching as Crane approaches Zetha and embraces her gently. "Then don't ask," he says softly and kindly, looking into her eyes. "I want to. Your messes, and Wiis', are mine now, too, and I wouldn't want it any other way." He tilts her chin up affectionately. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "It's fine Twozee. We'll get you all fixed up and I'll make a note so this doesn't happen again." Is what Zetha manages to say before Crane is approaching her and then taking her into an embrace. One that she returns. Then he's got her chin tilted up and her expression actually softens a little. "You're not going to let me say no are you? Because therapy has been good to me...to us..." There's a lean up for a kiss, likely something tender but quick. "And if I'm going to make it on time I should probably leave soon..." 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Crane doesn't reply, he seems surprised by her advances but wholly accepting. Afterwards, he acts flattered and shy. Twozee appears speechless, although whether that's because its only half fixed or because it would appear there's something quite serious going on between her and Crane that Twozee knows nothing about, will remain a mystery. However, after a moment, Zetha will realize that the contractors have already come and let themselves in, and had been quite privy to her display of affection to Crane. What's worse, is the contractors are familiars. Zetha shouldn't be surprised, really, they're old friends of Wiis', and would sometimes come over for dinner on Life Day. "...Ah... er.. Zetha! Good to see you again... " The old Houk's gaze shifts away, unsure of what to else to say. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "Drinbad...hey..." Zetha offers, taking a solid step back from Crane while blushing bright purple in her cheeks. "It's good to see you again. Ah... Crane...this is..Drinbad. Friend of mine and Wiis'... and... apparently our contractor..." A pause. "Drinbad this is Crane...my...uhm...boyfriend." Which may shock even her to say, let alone Crane. She looks around again and shakes her head. "Actually, Drinbad, today might not bee a good day to do any work. The place is a mess and the work will just make it messier. I'd like a day or two to get things sorted so you and your team can work better..." Plus, she has to go. which is going to look even worse if she just leaves Crane to deal with -this- too. <<Hey...uhm...might be about 45 minutes late? Things are a bit...it's a mess. I'll see you soon!>> Is quickly typed out to Soren. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "Oh," Drinbad says. There's a pregnant pause, as the old Houk seems to be at a loss for words for a moment. "Er, wow, Zetha. Never thought -- I mean, congrats. Congrats. He's -- that's nice," he stumbles out. "Nice to uh, finally meet ya," he says to Crane, "I seen you around plenty, but never formally introduced..." Crane bows politely and extends a warm greeting to the contractor who is now no longer going to do any work on the house at the moment. Drinbad peers around the house. "Yeeeep, figures. I told Wiis we couldn't do anymore work on the house until it's cleaned up proper. It's... it's, ah, too bad. But I'll find her in town tonight and figure out another time to come by. Y'know she's hardly been sleeping here, right?? Lately, three out of five work days she's over at Wonda's joint! Heh. Tourism slows down this time of year so the bed and breakfast's got plenty of vacancies...anyway, I'll see you around." Then he sees himself out. Once Drinbad is gone, Zetha will be able to tell Crane is relieved. He'd been embarrassed too, but hadn't wanted to make a show of it. He rubs her arms gently. "See you later tonight? Or maybe tomorrow. I think this is going to take all night, honestly..." <Oh, well that's good. I wasn't sure if you were going to make it. I'm running short on time, but I'll make our regular session work. Be safe> the doctor responds. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "I wasn't sure. She told me to stay out for all the work but if she hasn't been here then..." Zetha looks at Twozee and wonders. Then shakes her head. "Anyway. That sounds like a plan. We'll get this place sorted out for you..." Once Drinbad leaves, she looks back at Crane while he rubs her arms. "I'll be back tonight. I told you, even though I'm not sleeping in my room because Wiis doesn't want me to doesn't mean I haven't been sleeping somewhere here." She frowns. "I really need to get to my session before Doctor Cassias has a conniption or something. Yes. Tonight. I'll be back in a few hours and when I'm back, I'll help get this place cleaned up." 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "Okay," the young Tholothian man says. "And yes, you should. The last tram to the colony is leaving soon." Then he pauses and offers her a small smile. "You can take your time with the doctor. There's no need to rush." He then retreats into the kitchen and starts putting the undergarments into a random basket lying on the floor there. She... probably shouldn't tell Wiis about him taking care of that particular laundry... Once Zetha reaches the tram station, she'll find herself just in time for the last one. And then forty five minutes later, she's disembarking at Aklyrr Bend. And who else should she see passing the platform than the tall blue alien, Thaarin. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha doesn't plan to tell Wiis much of anything. If the Zabrak woman hasn't been staying at the house then she'll never know. Until she comes home to it clean and maybe Zetha will mention it casually. Though one thing is certain. Wiis will know Zetha is seeing someone if Drinbad has anything to say about it. And knowing him. He will. As she makes it into Aklyrr Bend and steps off onto the platform she does spy Thaarin. She then wonders if he's coming her way or just passing by and perhaps didn't see her. Maybe, just maybe, she can actually sneak by, pretend she didn't see him, and make it to Soren's office. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Nope. The tall blue alien's eyes light up when he sees Zetha and he makes a beeline for her immediately. He flashes her one of his typical oh so charming small smiles, and rests a hand on her shoulder gently and briefly. "Zetha," he says, "it's been a while, how have you been?" 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha takes a step back from the hand on her shoulder but does offer Thaarin a smile. "Thaarin. It has been a bit. I'm well. I'm also late. But it's good to see you..." And without his ever growing trail of women he seems to be so charming with as well. In a lot of ways, Zetha may feel like she dodged a blaster shot with this one. "I need to get to Doctor Cassias' office before he doesn't have time for me...but maybe we can catch up some time soon." As friends. As no longer even close friends. Which may hurt her more than him at this point. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' He waves a hand dismissively. "Of course, I won't keep you. But we should definitely catch up sometime," he says. "I can get us into the grav-ball club on a weeknight," he says, "And that's a promise. There'll be no one there, just us, and the bartender, hopefully. Anyway, see you then?" He pats her on the back and then is on his way. The doctor's office is just ahead of her, and she can see the light is still on. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "If you mean that hoity toity club place you took me to last time. I'd rather not." Zetha sort of half-mutters to herself while she rushes off to the doctor's office. Opening the door without knocking and looking...well like her usual self. Only perhaps a bit more tense than she would have been two minutes ago. "Hey. Sorry. The contractors showed up and we had to tell them to leave and Twozee's not doing too well...but...I'm here!" Barely. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' The doctor arches a brow at her. "You're ... just shy five minutes of being an hour late," he says. But he nods, and steps aside, allowing her inside before closing the door. "And how goes the renovations? Aside from Twozee having some kind of malfunction, I assume?" 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "It would have been seven minutes if Thaarin wasn't at the platform." Zetha blames the Chiss man before stepping further into the office. "Ugh. The house is an absolute mess and not even because of the work being done. There's just...stuff...everywhere. Honestly I almost canceled on you...but Crane showed up and now he's taking care of the mess because he didn't want me to miss this appointment..." She trails off there and shrugs. "I'm late doing normal maintenance on Twozee. But his transmitter shorted out, his memory banks are all gunked up and it shows. He didn't even remember I was there after having asked for my help." She flops into a chair and rubs a hand over her face. "Anyway. Enough about me. Or...at least about that. If we can't talk session stuff, at least you have time to tell me the other thing?" 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "Oh?" the doctor says, putting some tea on. "I'm sorry to hear that." He nods slowly, listening. "It's alright, we can do our regular session. Have you tried talking to Wiis about the mess at the house?" He sits down across from her, and Zetha will see that Wiis had not replied to her yet. Classic. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "No. I didn't even know it was a mess until I heard crashing from inside and found Twozee...not himself." Zetha explains. "And all I have is a message from her about the contractors. I haven't heard back since I messaged her about rescheduling them. Although, at this point, I'm pretty sure the next message I'm going to get from her will be along the lines of... Zetha, when did you get a boyfriend and why did you not tell me..." She chuckles then. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' The doctor smiles. He seems happy, even if only for a brief moment. "About that," he says, handing her a mug of steaming tea. "How has it been, being in a relationship now? Is this a first for you? Or did you have a phase when you were a teenager?" 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "It's been good. I guess? This is my first relationship and we haven't had a lot of time to hang out really. But that will hopefully change after certain events." Which Zetha knows she doesn't have to expand on that. Soren is much aware of all that going on. "So it's safe to say we're going slow. Which is completely fine for me. I'd rather that...honestly." Then she pauses, blowing on the steaming tea gently before taking a sip. "I do have one thing...that I wanted to tell you..." She continues before Soren can ask further questions. "Cayde...helped me...find some locked memories. We were spending some time talking the other day and it came around about how we were both abandoned as children. I told him how I couldn't remember anything before Tenoo but..." She's going around in a circle. "...I remembered my parents...I found specific memories...of them. Of us. As a family. And...I also remembered...the day I was left behind." 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "That's good," the doctor encourages immediately. "You're young, and there's no need to rush anything. Stable beginnings are a sign of a healthy, long term commitment,' he continues. "Oh? And how did that make you feel? What were you able to recall about your parents?" 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "I'm angry and sad at the same time. But also...happy. The first memory was me here on Tenoo...being shoved against a wall..." Zetha begins. "Zygerrians. They left me here. Took me away from my parents. And when I remembered them...we were on a ship. We were...happy. Or I was. My parents knew something. Perhaps that I was being taken away..." The tears come before Zetha can stop them as she remembers, again, the images fresh in her mind like it was just yesterday that it happened. "Dantooine. I remembered that. The man who had left me on Tenoo said that they would take my parents to the furthest region..." Then she shakes her head. "Sorry. Anyway. So I'm happy I remember, sad that it happened and also angry...that it happened..." 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "Well," the doctor says, after a moment. "I understand how those memories could make you feel both angry that it happened, but grateful that you remembered. Sometimes knowing helps us achieve a sense of closure, even if that road isn't one we can pursue or travel down right away. In some cases, you can't at all." He pauses, a distant look coming over his expression for a moment. Then he looks back over at Zetha. "Tell me, how much do you want to be reunited with your biological parents? Would you leave Tenoo permanently, if that meant being with them?" 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "I mean. If they're even still alive. I...I've read how slaves are treated. But if they somehow were alive, and in a position where I could meet them...I would want to, yes." Zetha answers honestly. "But leaving Tenoo permanently to be with them? No. I'm building too much here. I've got Wiis to think of, and everyone else. Even if we could stay in touch...I can't just leave this life I've built here. I mean, I know Navi won't be here for forever...but when she's gone someone's gotta look after Cayde at the very least." She tries to joke. It's a horrible attempt. "Actually...I'm hoping when we're on Coruscant... that maybe I can see if there's anyone there that could help me. I know their names. I know where they were headed once upon a time." Unless the slaver was lying. But names are a good start. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "Perhaps," the doctor says. "I have connections on Coruscant, I could ask around for you. It's a solid start, even if you didn't end up remembering everything that happened." "Well, that's good to hear. If you had said you did want to leave to be with them permanently, I wouldn't have thought it the worst thing you could possibly do, but I do think that you'd do better staying here." "You've started to build the foundations for a beautiful life here, Zetha. The number of people here who deeply care about you is increasing, your mother is finally financially stable, and now there's someone in your life you might end up marrying." 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "I still don't know how you managed to pay her what you did. You really did change her life for the better. I can't tell you how thankful I am for that." Zetha is still on about how that money is Wiis'. Not hers. It will never be hers. "You're right. It may be a very eventful and sometimes traumatizing path...but I'm happy I left the junkyard that day to talk to...I think it was Thaarin. It might have been you and Thaarin. I've slept since then." She offers then before taking another sip of tea. "And that's the story of my life right now. All things considered I think things are moving in a more positive direction." 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' The doctor shrugs. "What can I say, medicine is a lucrative career tract. But credits can't really buy anything of true value, which is why, out of all of the crimes that go frequently go unpunished, slavery is the worst." "Good," he says, "I'm glad to hear that. By the way, are you two on speaking terms? I know you've had your differences..." 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' There's a pregnant pause at that last question before Zetha drinks more tea to make the pause even longer. "I don't know." She answers truthfully. "I suppose we are. He did say hello to me when I passed him at the station platform earlier. But then he had the audacity to offer me time with him at that grav-ball place. Never again." It holds a bad memory and a sour taste in her mouth. "But all in all, we haven't spoken in a long while. He's busy. I'm busy. Just how it is." And perhaps Zetha plans to keep it that way without saying so much out loud. He was the one who wanted to try but can't even reach out to say hello or check in. She's not going to chase what wants to keep running away. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "Did you... tell him that you didn't want to go there?" The doctor says. "Zetha, you know that he's well intentioned, right? He thinks you want to be spoiled, and that was his attempt at it." He sighs. "We're both aware that he works too much, and has lofty expectations for himself that aren't completely grounded in reality. He's a bureaucrat, and his first instinct is sacrifice what's in his life that isn't absolutely critical to his top priorities, which are Cayde, Navi, and the well being of the colony. And in many cases, that ends up being meaningful relationships. I don't know much about the Chiss, or his homeworld, but if I had to take a guess at what their society is like, Thaarin's one of the nicer ones by a wide margin though their culture probably doesn't, in general, value emotional and physical intimacy." 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "He also wants to return to his homeworld." Zetha offers. "Well intentions or not, he made his choice. I'm not even a blip on his radar anymore." Why are they talking about Thaarin now? Cause she brought him up. "Anyway. We're friends. Until we're not friends. We're friends who don't talk to each other." There's another pause. "I didn't get a chance to tell him. I was more focused on getting here." She knows she brushed him off the best she could. Acted a little cold perhaps. Even if the Chiss man didn't pick up on it. Or maybe he did and just didn't show it. "Anyway. It doesn't matter." It never did. Not in Zetha's eyes. She was a distraction and he got rid of that cleanly enough. "Spoiled. What does he take me for..." 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "Or, you yourself chose to remove that chance because you didn't want to give it to him," the doctor says, "you know that I would have waited for you, even if you were over an hour late." Well, yes. He'd done that before. "He told you?" the doctor says. "He never said anything of the like to me," he says, "although I'd figured that at some point, he would." "That's where you're wrong, Zetha. Many people -like- Thaarin, but they don't really -know- him. Not like you do. He's close with Cayde, too, but I'm afraid that he spends more time worrying about the young padawan than he does genuinely trying to connect with him for sake of closeness only. And lately, conflict of interest over the Mandalorians seems to be causing a rift between him and Navi. So that really only leaves you, Zetha." "I don't think he really knows what true intimacy is, to be honest. I think he's just treating you, and everyone he doesn't owe his life to the same way everyone else in his life ever treated him. I don't know that he knows any other way to be." 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' This is where Zetha may panic a little. "He...kriff. He told me in secret. So maybe don't mention I said anything. It's the reason why I'm fitting out a ship at the junkyard for him." She offers. Still doing that even if they don't talk. Because of all the promises she's made, several have been broken. Not that one though. Never that one. "You say I know him. I don't think I do. Not that well anyway." Oh but she does. Because they've talked. He's shared with her more than he's likely to have shared with anyone. So she frowns a little. "I'll try to get him to hang out. And I'll tell him that the grav-ball is off limits." She decides then, likely deciding then and there that maybe she's not given Thaarin enough credit. Now Zetha wants to change the conversational direction. "So, what are these changes you were talking about?" 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "Of course," the doctor says, "everything you say to me during our session is confidential. If it wasn't, I'd be in jail and out of a job," he jokes dryly. "Well, I can't really be the judge how well you know him," Soren says, "but if I had to guess, -he- definitely thinks you know him like very few do. And I think it would be healthy for him to start forming meaningful relationships that are innately tied to his work, which is helping run the colony." "However, it's up to you. If you really don't feel comfortable being friends with him, I understand." He sighs. "Tomorrow, a new CSF agent is arriving from Coruscant. She's going to be taking Veena's place, and will be actively assisting us in understanding the link between the black clad Mandalorian and the missing Arkanians. She'll likely be helping you and Thaarin on the espionage side of things, as we ramp up to help you infiltrate whenever it is that Mandalorian is hiding out." "Secondly, I wanted to let you know that Rykard, the former Marshal of the colony here, will be returning to his post in a few weeks. I'll have more time, hopefully, but will be expected to frequent Kublop less." 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "Never said I was uncomfortable being his friend. If nothing else, I wish we were better friends, but things get in the way. So maybe I have to be the one to put my foot down and make him make time for me." As a friend. Zetha then listens as Soren explains further. About the person from Coruscant and Rykard returning. "Well the former will likely be interesting. The latter...I'm not sure I've had much interaction with this Rykard person. But you having more time will be nice...and I can always come here to see you even if it's not for a session or business or whatever." Then she smiles. "I think I've taken up enough of your time. And I think there's only one more train back to Kublop which I should catch so I don't leave Crane with the mess in the house." She then looks down. "Wiis still hasn't replied...I might need to see if she's alright...cause I'd of bet by now if Drinbad has gotten hold of her ears she'd of heard about me and Crane." She stands then. "Until next time?" 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "Please do," the doctor says. "It would be good for him. And for you too, I think." "Are you sure you wouldn't rather be in Kublop, spending your evenings out on the town with your boyfriend? You know, you only get to be young and in love once." He smiles, and taking out a thermos, pours the rest of the tea that Zetha didn't drink into it. "Yes, next time. I, ah, I'm late for my next appointment. But that's alright, it was worth it." He then hands her the thermos. "Be safe, Zetha. Give Wiis my regards." 
}}

Another Session

2025-12-08T03:09:42Z

Andromeda: Created page with "{{Log Header |Date of Scene=2025-12-05 |Cast of Characters=159, 444 |pretty=yes }} {{Poses |Poses=:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' It's a quiet afternoon in Kublop, and whether or not Zetha is at the convent, or the junkyard, she'll be getting a couple expected text transmissions from two of the people she's closest with on Tenoo. There's one from the doctor, sending her a friendly reminder about their scheduled therapy session that's in about coup..."

{{Log Header
|Date of Scene=2025-12-05
|Cast of Characters=159, 444
|pretty=yes
}}
{{Poses
|Poses=:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' It's a quiet afternoon in Kublop, and whether or not Zetha is at the convent, or the junkyard, she'll be getting a couple expected text transmissions from two of the people she's closest with on Tenoo. There's one from the doctor, sending her a friendly reminder about their scheduled therapy session that's in about couple of hours, and then there's one from Wiis, asking her to head over to the house soon because the contractors would be coming to work on it in an hour or so. Why Wiis isn't at the house right now herself will remain a mystery for now, but it isn't unusual for her to frequent the town to do business with some of the customers who didn't really want to or couldn't visit the junkyard... 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha is laying in her hammock in the junkyard. She's gotten a little more comfortable spending time outside since having been threatened at blaster point. That was a fun day. When the texts come in, she'll reply to Wiis first. Let her know that she's at the junkyard and will supervise the contractors. Make everything pink. Or purple. Especially Wiis' own room. That would totally be pink. Then she smirks. The next text goes to the doctor. <<Hey doc. Not sure if I'll make it today. Gotta wait for Wiis to come back to the house and until then there's people arriving shorttly to do some work.>> Then she goes back to reading her holo-book. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' The doctor replies almost immediately (uncharacteristic for him): <Don't worry. If you need to be a half hour late, I've got a little time to spare. Besides, even if you don't want to do our regular session today, I'd like to see you anyway. There's going to be some changes around Kublop and the colony starting likely tomorrow or the day after, and there will be more to come even after that. And I don't want you to be in the dark about any of it.> She might be about to dive back into her holobook when she'll hear a rather unceremonious crash coming from the house. It sounds very Twozee coded. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' <<Regular session is fine, but I'll stop by either way as soon as I can. See you soon!>> Is sent back just before she settles in with her holo-book. That's when she hears the crash which causes her to hop out of the hammock and jog into the house. "Two-zee? Are you alright?" As if a droid could be harmed in any way. Still, Zetha has a raport with droids. But she's rather curious what sort of scene she's about to jog into. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' <Alright. Just try not to be an hour late> That had probably happened once. Or twice, but it had always been some customer strolling in at the last minute needing some urgent thing that in the end, wasn't quite urgent after all. "Oh... ah...." Well, that was never a good prelude, especially not when it's Twozee. "Zetha, do you think you could come inside for a moment... I think I accidentally fried my transmitter..." 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha's not going to reply to that one. Though she will text Wiis <<When do you think you'll be home? I have a session with Doctor Cassias in a couple hours.>> Then she'll walk into the house to take care of Twozee. "How in the galaxy did you manage to fry your transmitter?" Asking this as she grabs her bag of tools - one of many she likely has stowed around the house and outside in the junkyard proper - "I'm beginning to think that if I ever leave this planet I'll have to take you with me just to make sure you don't fry something else on accident..." 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' No response from Wiis .. not right away, anyway. But that's not unusual. Well, Zetha might be in for a very unpleasant surprise when she goes inside the house. See, since she'd been staying in the old ship she and Thaarin had been working on off and on, but otherwise sleeping at the convent, she'd likely had very little reason to come in the front door. Perhaps she'll be happy she hadn't. The house is an -utter- wreck. The contractors had clearly come and done some work already, torn down some old walls and ripped away the molding baseboard in the kitchen area, but Wiis had NOT made any attempt whatsoever to clear away any belongings in a reasonable fashion. There's piles and piles of both garbage as well as items used on a daily basis like utensils and laundry just sitting in mountainous heaps that Zetha will have to precariously make her way around to get to Twozee. Dirty dishes line the kitchen counter, along with clean AND dirty undergarments. Twozee is standing in the doorway to the dining room, its helm sparking with wires sticking out, and tapping its fingers together a bit nervously. "I, well, I was..." A pause. "I was trying to clean some of the dishes, but the quadruple cup tea warmer was stacked on top of yesterday's take out, which was on top of all the dishes--" "And the problem is that I'm trying to reach out to the contractors to reschedule them to come back oh, maybe several hours from now or tomorrow, but now that my transmitter is fried, I can't, and I.. I actually don't remember their personal frequency. It's probably on a datapad somewhere here... but... ah..." 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' No response from Wiis .. not right away, anyway. But that's not unusual. Well, Zetha might be in for a very unpleasant surprise when she goes inside the house. See, since she'd been staying in the old ship she and Thaarin had been working on off and on, but otherwise sleeping at the convent, she'd likely had very little reason to come in the front door. Perhaps she'll be happy she hadn't. The house is an -utter- wreck. The contractors had clearly come and done some work already, torn down some old walls and ripped away the molding baseboard in the kitchen area, but Wiis had NOT made any attempt whatsoever to clear away any belongings in a reasonable fashion. There's piles and piles of both garbage as well as items used on a daily basis like utensils and laundry just sitting in mountainous heaps that Zetha will have to precariously make her way around to get to Twozee. Dirty dishes line the kitchen counter, along with clean AND dirty undergarments. Twozee is standing in the doorway to the dining room, its helm sparking with wires sticking out, and tapping its fingers together a bit nervously. "I, well, I was..." A pause. "I was trying to clean some of the dishes, but the quadruple cup tea warmer was stacked on top of yesterday's take out, which was on top of all the dishes--" "And the problem is that I'm trying to reach out to the contractors to reschedule them to come back oh, maybe several hours from now or tomorrow, but now that my transmitter is fried, I can't, and I.. I actually don't remember their personal frequency. It's probably on a datapad somewhere here... but... ah..." It will be obvious to Zetha that there's no way the contractors can do any more work... not until the place gets cleaned up some. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha just sort of stops when she sees the chaos. Oh goddess bless so much chaos. "Did Wiis not attempt to clean up -anything-?" The answer is obviously no and then she internalizes more upset because she wasn't even told contractors had begun to work on the house so there would have been no way for her to know that any of this work needed to be done. Right then. "Alright. Think Zetha." She says this aloud but to herself as she weaves around piles of stuff, goes a little pale at the sight of...clothing garments...that she thought was long ago's trash. "I'm going to kill her. Not really. But for kriff's sake..." This is going to take forever, she has an appointment to make, and Twozee needs fixing. The transmitter might be the easiest thing on the ever growing list. "Right then. Your transmitter first, Twozee, cause I'm not going to try to find a datapad in all this mess. We need to call off the contractors for today...which I need to text Wiis about..." But first. Fixing Twozee time! 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Oh no. It's -bad-. Yes, the transmitter is an easy fix. She could probably go out into the junkyard right now, find a working one and stick it on. The problem is, not only is the transmitter busted but it looks like Twozee's memory banks have been damaged pretty badly and some of the internal circuitry on the core processor has been completely melded to the inside of its helm chassis. If she looks deeper, she'll see that one of the heating coils from the cup warmer had actually fallen inside of Twozee, into a little crevice that is going to take finesse to get out without causing further damage. What a mess. "Z-Zetha? I don't remember you coming in here," the droid says, "Were you--" But before the droid can finish its sentence there's a knock on a door. A familiar voice asks politely. "Zetha? May I come in?" It would seem Crane has chosen a rather terrible time to visit. Or perhaps the perfect time. It all depends on how Zetha sees it... 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "Don't worry Twozee. You've got a couple things wrong with you. Mercy me what have you been doing with yourself?" There's finesse pulling out that coil, and then she sighs. "I gotta go find you another transmitter, and some of your memory banks look fried too. I can replace the transmitter. I don't know if I have time to fix -everything- right now. Cause I might need you on a table." She looks around again and sighs. "A clean...ish...table..." But while she's working and talking to Twozee she hears the knock and glances over and there's a little of both relief and annoyance on her face. "Hey Crane..." While she's got her hand inside Twozee's back. "Come in. Can you do me a favor? In the first room on the right there's a box filled with...gizmos..." Technical term. "I need the one that looks like a cylinder about the length of a finger with spokes coming out of either end." Cause Zetha keeps the -good- stuff in her bedroom. Which is likely torn asunder, her floor mattress is likely a little more tattered than she'd like anyone to see, but she can't just run and get what she needs at the moment. Crane will just have to judge her on her limited existence. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "Oh..uh.. I don't know...I suppose that would explain why I can't seem to remember much all of a sudden." The droid flinches when she says 'table'. "A table?! Oh my. Is it.. is it really that bad?" Crane attempts to come inside but nearly walks into the massive pile of junk obstructing 60 percent of the doorway. He just barely manages to slide past it without knocking anything over. "Right," he says, "what happened here?" He goes into her bedroom, and right when Zetha might think he's taking too long, he emerges carefully (so he doesn't step on all the stuff literally everywhere) with three items. "I wasn't sure which one you wanted," he says, "I'm no mechanic." She might realize that her description had been a bit vague because all three are cylindrical with spokes coming out of either end. "Sorry," he says. Then he immediately goes into the kitchen and starts washing the dishes. However, the ancient undergarments are all there too... 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "Well it isn't -good- Twozee...you're all gunked up and I am not going to stand around while fixing it all. But it's not terrible..." Zetha offers and then looks over to where Crane goes into her room and then returns. "Contractors. And apparently Wiis didn't clean anything up. She also didn't tell me they had already been working on things." Then she watches as he moves to just...start washing dishes. "You don't...need to do that...I can get it done. Or Twozee can once I get him...fixed..." No, no, YES! That was the one she wanted. So she starts to work on replacing the transmitter. "Twozee. Once you're back online and can transmit stuff, I need you to contact the contractors and have them delay their arrival. Until like, tomorrow. Or the next day. They can't come here and keep working in all this mess." She says. "I may have to cancel on Doctor Cassias all together today and see him tomorrow..." 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "Ohhh. Oh no. I'm sorry," the droid apologizes for no reason. The transmitter is a breeze, at least. That will take her all of five to ten minutes. Next, she'll start peeling the melted internal circuitry off the inside of its chassis. It's tedious work, but at least she makes good progress. "Wait," Crane comments, "But isn't that why she didn't want you staying in the house after the Mandalorians came?" He ignores her when she tells him he doesn't need to do that. "The contractors? What contractors? Oh, right. The contractors -- er, what time were they coming again today?" Twozee stammers. When she says that she'll have to cancel on Doctor Cassias, Crane frowns and pauses doing the dishes. "Zetha..." "It's alright. I'll take care of everything. You can finish up with Twozee and then head down to Aklyrr Bend." 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "Who said I'm staying in the house?" Zetha offers and then shrugs. "Wiis is likely out running errands and asked me to wait for the contractors but they can't come with all this mess and..." Zetha trails off as Crane asks more questions. "I don't know. Wiis just asked me to supervise them, but I have that appointment which I may not make now and so..." She finishes what she can with Twozee. "Don't apologize Twozee, it's not your fault. I'm sorry I haven't been paying better attention to you and keeping you maintained." It's kinda part of her job. And she wanted to say that before she forgot to. Then she hears Crane's comment about how he can take care of everything. "I...I couldn't ask you to do that, Crane..." She shakes her head. "Doctor Cassias will understand and this isn't even your mess..so..you don't need to take care of it. It'll be fine..." 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "Oh, but it is!" Twozee says. "I didn't tell you my last maintenance was over six months ago. I..." But then the droid trails off, watching as Crane approaches Zetha and embraces her gently. "Then don't ask," he says softly and kindly, looking into her eyes. "I want to. Your messes, and Wiis', are mine now, too, and I wouldn't want it any other way." He tilts her chin up affectionately. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "It's fine Twozee. We'll get you all fixed up and I'll make a note so this doesn't happen again." Is what Zetha manages to say before Crane is approaching her and then taking her into an embrace. One that she returns. Then he's got her chin tilted up and her expression actually softens a little. "You're not going to let me say no are you? Because therapy has been good to me...to us..." There's a lean up for a kiss, likely something tender but quick. "And if I'm going to make it on time I should probably leave soon..." 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Crane doesn't reply, he seems surprised by her advances but wholly accepting. Afterwards, he acts flattered and shy. Twozee appears speechless, although whether that's because its only half fixed or because it would appear there's something quite serious going on between her and Crane that Twozee knows nothing about, will remain a mystery. However, after a moment, Zetha will realize that the contractors have already come and let themselves in, and had been quite privy to her display of affection to Crane. What's worse, is the contractors are familiars. Zetha shouldn't be surprised, really, they're old friends of Wiis', and would sometimes come over for dinner on Life Day. "...Ah... er.. Zetha! Good to see you again... " The old Houk's gaze shifts away, unsure of what to else to say. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "Drinbad...hey..." Zetha offers, taking a solid step back from Crane while blushing bright purple in her cheeks. "It's good to see you again. Ah... Crane...this is..Drinbad. Friend of mine and Wiis'... and... apparently our contractor..." A pause. "Drinbad this is Crane...my...uhm...boyfriend." Which may shock even her to say, let alone Crane. She looks around again and shakes her head. "Actually, Drinbad, today might not bee a good day to do any work. The place is a mess and the work will just make it messier. I'd like a day or two to get things sorted so you and your team can work better..." Plus, she has to go. which is going to look even worse if she just leaves Crane to deal with -this- too. <<Hey...uhm...might be about 45 minutes late? Things are a bit...it's a mess. I'll see you soon!>> Is quickly typed out to Soren. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "Oh," Drinbad says. There's a pregnant pause, as the old Houk seems to be at a loss for words for a moment. "Er, wow, Zetha. Never thought -- I mean, congrats. Congrats. He's -- that's nice," he stumbles out. "Nice to uh, finally meet ya," he says to Crane, "I seen you around plenty, but never formally introduced..." Crane bows politely and extends a warm greeting to the contractor who is now no longer going to do any work on the house at the moment. Drinbad peers around the house. "Yeeeep, figures. I told Wiis we couldn't do anymore work on the house until it's cleaned up proper. It's... it's, ah, too bad. But I'll find her in town tonight and figure out another time to come by. Y'know she's hardly been sleeping here, right?? Lately, three out of five work days she's over at Wonda's joint! Heh. Tourism slows down this time of year so the bed and breakfast's got plenty of vacancies...anyway, I'll see you around." Then he sees himself out. Once Drinbad is gone, Zetha will be able to tell Crane is relieved. He'd been embarrassed too, but hadn't wanted to make a show of it. He rubs her arms gently. "See you later tonight? Or maybe tomorrow. I think this is going to take all night, honestly..." <Oh, well that's good. I wasn't sure if you were going to make it. I'm running short on time, but I'll make our regular session work. Be safe> the doctor responds. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "I wasn't sure. She told me to stay out for all the work but if she hasn't been here then..." Zetha looks at Twozee and wonders. Then shakes her head. "Anyway. That sounds like a plan. We'll get this place sorted out for you..." Once Drinbad leaves, she looks back at Crane while he rubs her arms. "I'll be back tonight. I told you, even though I'm not sleeping in my room because Wiis doesn't want me to doesn't mean I haven't been sleeping somewhere here." She frowns. "I really need to get to my session before Doctor Cassias has a conniption or something. Yes. Tonight. I'll be back in a few hours and when I'm back, I'll help get this place cleaned up." 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "Okay," the young Tholothian man says. "And yes, you should. The last tram to the colony is leaving soon." Then he pauses and offers her a small smile. "You can take your time with the doctor. There's no need to rush." He then retreats into the kitchen and starts putting the undergarments into a random basket lying on the floor there. She... probably shouldn't tell Wiis about him taking care of that particular laundry... Once Zetha reaches the tram station, she'll find herself just in time for the last one. And then forty five minutes later, she's disembarking at Aklyrr Bend. And who else should she see passing the platform than the tall blue alien, Thaarin. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha doesn't plan to tell Wiis much of anything. If the Zabrak woman hasn't been staying at the house then she'll never know. Until she comes home to it clean and maybe Zetha will mention it casually. Though one thing is certain. Wiis will know Zetha is seeing someone if Drinbad has anything to say about it. And knowing him. He will. As she makes it into Aklyrr Bend and steps off onto the platform she does spy Thaarin. She then wonders if he's coming her way or just passing by and perhaps didn't see her. Maybe, just maybe, she can actually sneak by, pretend she didn't see him, and make it to Soren's office. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Nope. The tall blue alien's eyes light up when he sees Zetha and he makes a beeline for her immediately. He flashes her one of his typical oh so charming small smiles, and rests a hand on her shoulder gently and briefly. "Zetha," he says, "it's been a while, how have you been?" 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha takes a step back from the hand on her shoulder but does offer Thaarin a smile. "Thaarin. It has been a bit. I'm well. I'm also late. But it's good to see you..." And without his ever growing trail of women he seems to be so charming with as well. In a lot of ways, Zetha may feel like she dodged a blaster shot with this one. "I need to get to Doctor Cassias' office before he doesn't have time for me...but maybe we can catch up some time soon." As friends. As no longer even close friends. Which may hurt her more than him at this point. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' He waves a hand dismissively. "Of course, I won't keep you. But we should definitely catch up sometime," he says. "I can get us into the grav-ball club on a weeknight," he says, "And that's a promise. There'll be no one there, just us, and the bartender, hopefully. Anyway, see you then?" He pats her on the back and then is on his way. The doctor's office is just ahead of her, and she can see the light is still on. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "If you mean that hoity toity club place you took me to last time. I'd rather not." Zetha sort of half-mutters to herself while she rushes off to the doctor's office. Opening the door without knocking and looking...well like her usual self. Only perhaps a bit more tense than she would have been two minutes ago. "Hey. Sorry. The contractors showed up and we had to tell them to leave and Twozee's not doing too well...but...I'm here!" Barely. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' The doctor arches a brow at her. "You're ... just shy five minutes of being an hour late," he says. But he nods, and steps aside, allowing her inside before closing the door. "And how goes the renovations? Aside from Twozee having some kind of malfunction, I assume?" 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "It would have been seven minutes if Thaarin wasn't at the platform." Zetha blames the Chiss man before stepping further into the office. "Ugh. The house is an absolute mess and not even because of the work being done. There's just...stuff...everywhere. Honestly I almost canceled on you...but Crane showed up and now he's taking care of the mess because he didn't want me to miss this appointment..." She trails off there and shrugs. "I'm late doing normal maintenance on Twozee. But his transmitter shorted out, his memory banks are all gunked up and it shows. He didn't even remember I was there after having asked for my help." She flops into a chair and rubs a hand over her face. "Anyway. Enough about me. Or...at least about that. If we can't talk session stuff, at least you have time to tell me the other thing?" 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "Oh?" the doctor says, putting some tea on. "I'm sorry to hear that." He nods slowly, listening. "It's alright, we can do our regular session. Have you tried talking to Wiis about the mess at the house?" He sits down across from her, and Zetha will see that Wiis had not replied to her yet. Classic. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "No. I didn't even know it was a mess until I heard crashing from inside and found Twozee...not himself." Zetha explains. "And all I have is a message from her about the contractors. I haven't heard back since I messaged her about rescheduling them. Although, at this point, I'm pretty sure the next message I'm going to get from her will be along the lines of... Zetha, when did you get a boyfriend and why did you not tell me..." She chuckles then. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' The doctor smiles. He seems happy, even if only for a brief moment. "About that," he says, handing her a mug of steaming tea. "How has it been, being in a relationship now? Is this a first for you? Or did you have a phase when you were a teenager?" 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "It's been good. I guess? This is my first relationship and we haven't had a lot of time to hang out really. But that will hopefully change after certain events." Which Zetha knows she doesn't have to expand on that. Soren is much aware of all that going on. "So it's safe to say we're going slow. Which is completely fine for me. I'd rather that...honestly." Then she pauses, blowing on the steaming tea gently before taking a sip. "I do have one thing...that I wanted to tell you..." She continues before Soren can ask further questions. "Cayde...helped me...find some locked memories. We were spending some time talking the other day and it came around about how we were both abandoned as children. I told him how I couldn't remember anything before Tenoo but..." She's going around in a circle. "...I remembered my parents...I found specific memories...of them. Of us. As a family. And...I also remembered...the day I was left behind." 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "That's good," the doctor encourages immediately. "You're young, and there's no need to rush anything. Stable beginnings are a sign of a healthy, long term commitment,' he continues. "Oh? And how did that make you feel? What were you able to recall about your parents?" 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "I'm angry and sad at the same time. But also...happy. The first memory was me here on Tenoo...being shoved against a wall..." Zetha begins. "Zygerrians. They left me here. Took me away from my parents. And when I remembered them...we were on a ship. We were...happy. Or I was. My parents knew something. Perhaps that I was being taken away..." The tears come before Zetha can stop them as she remembers, again, the images fresh in her mind like it was just yesterday that it happened. "Dantooine. I remembered that. The man who had left me on Tenoo said that they would take my parents to the furthest region..." Then she shakes her head. "Sorry. Anyway. So I'm happy I remember, sad that it happened and also angry...that it happened..." 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "Well," the doctor says, after a moment. "I understand how those memories could make you feel both angry that it happened, but grateful that you remembered. Sometimes knowing helps us achieve a sense of closure, even if that road isn't one we can pursue or travel down right away. In some cases, you can't at all." He pauses, a distant look coming over his expression for a moment. Then he looks back over at Zetha. "Tell me, how much do you want to be reunited with your biological parents? Would you leave Tenoo permanently, if that meant being with them?" 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "I mean. If they're even still alive. I...I've read how slaves are treated. But if they somehow were alive, and in a position where I could meet them...I would want to, yes." Zetha answers honestly. "But leaving Tenoo permanently to be with them? No. I'm building too much here. I've got Wiis to think of, and everyone else. Even if we could stay in touch...I can't just leave this life I've built here. I mean, I know Navi won't be here for forever...but when she's gone someone's gotta look after Cayde at the very least." She tries to joke. It's a horrible attempt. "Actually...I'm hoping when we're on Coruscant... that maybe I can see if there's anyone there that could help me. I know their names. I know where they were headed once upon a time." Unless the slaver was lying. But names are a good start. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "Perhaps," the doctor says. "I have connections on Coruscant, I could ask around for you. It's a solid start, even if you didn't end up remembering everything that happened." "Well, that's good to hear. If you had said you did want to leave to be with them permanently, I wouldn't have thought it the worst thing you could possibly do, but I do think that you'd do better staying here." "You've started to build the foundations for a beautiful life here, Zetha. The number of people here who deeply care about you is increasing, your mother is finally financially stable, and now there's someone in your life you might end up marrying." 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "I still don't know how you managed to pay her what you did. You really did change her life for the better. I can't tell you how thankful I am for that." Zetha is still on about how that money is Wiis'. Not hers. It will never be hers. "You're right. It may be a very eventful and sometimes traumatizing path...but I'm happy I left the junkyard that day to talk to...I think it was Thaarin. It might have been you and Thaarin. I've slept since then." She offers then before taking another sip of tea. "And that's the story of my life right now. All things considered I think things are moving in a more positive direction." 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' The doctor shrugs. "What can I say, medicine is a lucrative career tract. But credits can't really buy anything of true value, which is why, out of all of the crimes that go frequently go unpunished, slavery is the worst." "Good," he says, "I'm glad to hear that. By the way, are you two on speaking terms? I know you've had your differences..." 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' There's a pregnant pause at that last question before Zetha drinks more tea to make the pause even longer. "I don't know." She answers truthfully. "I suppose we are. He did say hello to me when I passed him at the station platform earlier. But then he had the audacity to offer me time with him at that grav-ball place. Never again." It holds a bad memory and a sour taste in her mouth. "But all in all, we haven't spoken in a long while. He's busy. I'm busy. Just how it is." And perhaps Zetha plans to keep it that way without saying so much out loud. He was the one who wanted to try but can't even reach out to say hello or check in. She's not going to chase what wants to keep running away. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "Did you... tell him that you didn't want to go there?" The doctor says. "Zetha, you know that he's well intentioned, right? He thinks you want to be spoiled, and that was his attempt at it." He sighs. "We're both aware that he works too much, and has lofty expectations for himself that aren't completely grounded in reality. He's a bureaucrat, and his first instinct is sacrifice what's in his life that isn't absolutely critical to his top priorities, which are Cayde, Navi, and the well being of the colony. And in many cases, that ends up being meaningful relationships. I don't know much about the Chiss, or his homeworld, but if I had to take a guess at what their society is like, Thaarin's one of the nicer ones by a wide margin though their culture probably doesn't, in general, value emotional and physical intimacy." 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "He also wants to return to his homeworld." Zetha offers. "Well intentions or not, he made his choice. I'm not even a blip on his radar anymore." Why are they talking about Thaarin now? Cause she brought him up. "Anyway. We're friends. Until we're not friends. We're friends who don't talk to each other." There's another pause. "I didn't get a chance to tell him. I was more focused on getting here." She knows she brushed him off the best she could. Acted a little cold perhaps. Even if the Chiss man didn't pick up on it. Or maybe he did and just didn't show it. "Anyway. It doesn't matter." It never did. Not in Zetha's eyes. She was a distraction and he got rid of that cleanly enough. "Spoiled. What does he take me for..." 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "Or, you yourself chose to remove that chance because you didn't want to give it to him," the doctor says, "you know that I would have waited for you, even if you were over an hour late." Well, yes. He'd done that before. "He told you?" the doctor says. "He never said anything of the like to me," he says, "although I'd figured that at some point, he would." "That's where you're wrong, Zetha. Many people -like- Thaarin, but they don't really -know- him. Not like you do. He's close with Cayde, too, but I'm afraid that he spends more time worrying about the young padawan than he does genuinely trying to connect with him for sake of closeness only. And lately, conflict of interest over the Mandalorians seems to be causing a rift between him and Navi. So that really only leaves you, Zetha." "I don't think he really knows what true intimacy is, to be honest. I think he's just treating you, and everyone he doesn't owe his life to the same way everyone else in his life ever treated him. I don't know that he knows any other way to be." 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' This is where Zetha may panic a little. "He...kriff. He told me in secret. So maybe don't mention I said anything. It's the reason why I'm fitting out a ship at the junkyard for him." She offers. Still doing that even if they don't talk. Because of all the promises she's made, several have been broken. Not that one though. Never that one. "You say I know him. I don't think I do. Not that well anyway." Oh but she does. Because they've talked. He's shared with her more than he's likely to have shared with anyone. So she frowns a little. "I'll try to get him to hang out. And I'll tell him that the grav-ball is off limits." She decides then, likely deciding then and there that maybe she's not given Thaarin enough credit. Now Zetha wants to change the conversational direction. "So, what are these changes you were talking about?" 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "Of course," the doctor says, "everything you say to me during our session is confidential. If it wasn't, I'd be in jail and out of a job," he jokes dryly. "Well, I can't really be the judge how well you know him," Soren says, "but if I had to guess, -he- definitely thinks you know him like very few do. And I think it would be healthy for him to start forming meaningful relationships that are innately tied to his work, which is helping run the colony." "However, it's up to you. If you really don't feel comfortable being friends with him, I understand." He sighs. "Tomorrow, a new CSF agent is arriving from Coruscant. She's going to be taking Veena's place, and will be actively assisting us in understanding the link between the black clad Mandalorian and the missing Arkanians. She'll likely be helping you and Thaarin on the espionage side of things, as we ramp up to help you infiltrate whenever it is that Mandalorian is hiding out." "Secondly, I wanted to let you know that Rykard, the former Marshal of the colony here, will be returning to his post in a few weeks. I'll have more time, hopefully, but will be expected to frequent Kublop less." 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "Never said I was uncomfortable being his friend. If nothing else, I wish we were better friends, but things get in the way. So maybe I have to be the one to put my foot down and make him make time for me." As a friend. Zetha then listens as Soren explains further. About the person from Coruscant and Rykard returning. "Well the former will likely be interesting. The latter...I'm not sure I've had much interaction with this Rykard person. But you having more time will be nice...and I can always come here to see you even if it's not for a session or business or whatever." Then she smiles. "I think I've taken up enough of your time. And I think there's only one more train back to Kublop which I should catch so I don't leave Crane with the mess in the house." She then looks down. "Wiis still hasn't replied...I might need to see if she's alright...cause I'd of bet by now if Drinbad has gotten hold of her ears she'd of heard about me and Crane." She stands then. "Until next time?" 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "Please do," the doctor says. "It would be good for him. And for you too, I think." "Are you sure you wouldn't rather be in Kublop, spending your evenings out on the town with your boyfriend? You know, you only get to be young and in love once." He smiles, and taking out a thermos, pours the rest of the tea that Zetha didn't drink into it. "Yes, next time. I, ah, I'm late for my next appointment. But that's alright, it was worth it." He then hands her the thermos. "Be safe, Zetha. Give Wiis my regards." 
}}

Manipulation Games

2025-12-08T02:59:14Z

Andromeda:

{{Log Header
|Date of Scene=2025-10-06
|Cast of Characters=159, 261
|pretty=yes
|Location=Aklyrr Bend - Tenoo - Outer Rim
}}
{{Poses
|Poses=:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' After Cayde had been returned to Kublop and promptly sent to the hospital, the young Sephi would likely have seen the young padawan settled and then had little to do after. The doctor had told her they'd done all they could for Cayde, and now it was just a waiting game to see how quickly he would recover from the swelling and allergic reactions. He'd thanked her, and then immediately had had to leave, to coordinate when he could formally be seeing some of the farmers for counseling sessions regarding the nightmares. As it is, there's not much for Navi to do in Kublop, and as co-deputy and with Cayde out of the picture, she's likely going to have to return to Aklyrr Bend to review the long list of complaints that had apparently been filed in the very short leave of absence she'd taken to search for the young padawan... 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' Navi somewhat reluctantly returns to Aklyrr Bend or, as she refers to it, Whatever Bend. "What the frell is an Aklyrr, anyway..?" she murmurs as she boards the tram and takes a seat, settling into a meditative trance to rest during the long ride back to the colony site. "And why give it a name when its odds of even being there in a year or two are so low?" 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Once Navi arrives back at the colony site, she'll find herself interrupted by that awful assistant of Xera's, Avi. "Haven't you checked your messages?" she replies haughtily. "Madame Graf wants to see you." 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "No, because I've barely gotten back from Kublop Springs. Which you know," Navi replies, trying to remain patient. "Thank you for telling me, even if you weren't doing it to be helpful, or even nice." 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Avi just turns up her nose at Navi and flounces off, arms folded. Well, Navi should probably go see Xera, and figure out what the Graf Lady wants to demand from her now... 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "Xera, I love you, but you have the /worst/ taste in help," Navi murmurs. She sends off a quick message to Xera, reading, < Just found out you wanted to see me. I will delay only long enough to clean up and change into clean clothes. After the day I've had, I doubt you want to see or smell me right now. I'll be as quick as possible. > She signs it and hurries to her little hab-shelter. Twenty minutes later, clean, in fresh clothes, her long pigtails still slightly damp and smelling of shampoo, she presses the doorchime button next to the door of Xera's deluxe pent-hab. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' The Lady Graf doesn't even bother to let Navi in herself, but the young Sephi girl probably won't be surprised. It's only in character for Xera, sadly. The doors to Xera's hab slide open, and a droid escorts her in, gesturing for her to sit on the fur lined couches in the living area. Moments later, the Lady appears, wearing a shimmersilk robe. "Navi," she says, smiling that sickly sweet smile that doesn't feel genuine at all. "It's good to see you. Or shall I call you, Deputy, now?" she sits down across from the young Sephi girl. "Did you find the padawan?" she asks. 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "I love your robe, Xera," Navi says by way of greeting, relaxing on one of the couches. "And that depends on how formal you prefer to be. I prefer Navi, but I know how you prefer to keep a distance between us. As for the Padawan, he is alive and safe, even if he will be in the hospital in Kublop Springs for at least a few days." 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' The smile widens. "Why, thank you. It costs me about four thousand credits. Custom made, on Ghorman." She sits down on the couch opposite to Navi. When she says that Cayde has been found, her expression becomes unreadable. "Oh," is all she says. There's a pause. "Avi," she says, "will you get us some tonic and gin? I know that's what Navi likes." She then turns back to Navi. "Anyway. You're not still hanging around Thaarin much, are you?" 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "No, but he hangs around me occasionally. But it's strictly business. I know he's an incorrigible flirt, and I'm happy to let him do his own thing. And he, in turn, doesn't flirt with me. He knows I'm not interested, you see," Navi replies gently, with the sort of nonchalance that goes well with speaking about a subject that doesn't bother her at all. "As for the robe, shimmersilk becomes you. I hope I didn't disturb your rest." "Oh, and please remind Avi not to poison my drink? I'm still not her favorite person," she adds, impishly. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' She ignores Navi's compliment, and pours herself a drink as soon as Avi arrives with the refreshments. "You say that," Xera says, sounding dissatisfied and avoiding eye contact with the Sephi girl, "but something tells me that you'd kiss him in a heartbeat if it got both you and him exactly what you wanted." She taps her fingers on her glass, and the clinking sound is unpleasant. She finally looks over at Navi. 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "Manipulation is an ugly game, and one I've given up playing," Navi replies, shaking her head. "There was a time I would have kissed him, if it meant saving your life. But that time is past, and I'm tired of lies. Mine, especially." She pours a finger of gin and tonic and takes a small sip. "I lied to you once, and for that I am truly sorry. I did it with the best of intentions. But lies never lead anywhere good, and mine were no exception." 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Xera seems even more offended. "If that was an attempt to get into my good graces, well you sorely failed," she says sharply. "Because first of all, you should do any and everything your power to save me if I was ever in danger. Secondly, I don't believe you. At all." "Are you sure you wouldn't kiss him, if it meant Coruscant sent more Core World friendly foods, ones that assuredly wouldn't make Cayde sick? Are you sure you wouldn't, if you knew that the botanists who were hired to come on this initiative, were assigned to study, cultivate, and conduct their research on native plants on Tenoo right next door to your co-deputy's tent?" Then she shrugs. "Now, don't get me wrong. I'm not trying to say you ought to go and kiss Thaarin. I'm just saying that I think you're still lying about being attracted to him, and I also doubt that you aren't playing your own little game. Because everyone has a game, Navi. And if you don't, well, you'll be a puppet to those who do. And you aren't stupid. At least you don't -seem- to be. I should hope, you aren't, and you've enough sense in you to realize that what I'm saying is true." 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "I already have done all in my power to save you. And I continue to," Navi protests softly, struggling a little to keep her voice even. She's come to expect confrontational meetings with Xera, but that doesn't mean she likes them. "But somehow I doubt kissing Thaarin would protect your life, see Cayde given a healthier diet, or see those botanical experiments moved away from his tent. Perhaps you might enjoy watching me kiss him... I've no idea how you feel about watching lovemaking in progress. But I wouldn't enjoy doing it. I'm not sure how he'd feel about it. He's far, far more drawn to men than I am, or so I've witnessed. Sometimes I wonder if he would kiss himself, if there were ever two of him. And that's no slight to him. Merely a rather immature mature joke." "Perhaps I do have a game, Xera, since we all seem to. But I don't play it the same way as you," she says softly. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "Well of course it won't," Xera snaps. Then her tone evens out and she says softly, "I was simply making a point." "Don't be stupid," she then says icily, "it's obvious, he draws the attention of both and revels in it." She takes a sip of her drink, "You're not convincing me, Navi." Then she says sharply. "I saw you kissing him at that club on Vuundalla. You're a poor actress, and if you didn't like the way he seduced you, it would have shown. You were clearly having a good time, you just don't want to admit that you were. Why, you two are peas in a pod, Navi, finding yourselves pulled in by any manner of person who makes you feel... seen, and known." She smirks a little. "Well, whatever. I don't mind if you play your own games, I just care that in the end, I win. I hold all the cards, after all. And if you want to convince me that you really do love me, you're going to have to try another angle, because you still haven't persuaded me." 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "Well of /course/ you saw me kissing him... you were /meant/ to," Navi replies, a hint of heat entering her tone. "The whole thing was arranged to make you jealous... the only wrinkle was the shots he was ordering were twice as strong as I had expected, which is probably why he became sick afterward, poor man." She doesn't bother mentioning that she could purge the alcohol from her system almost at will, Force willing. "Seeing and being seen aren't normally things that bother me one way or another, which is why I haven't show Avi the back of my hand on a number of occasions. Sparring with her would almost be fun if she weren't so embarrasingly bad at it," she observes. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "See," Lady Xera says, "That's the problem. You wanted me to be jealous so you didn't hesitate to kiss him. I'm no fool, Navi. I know you were playing games then, and probably still are, now. Why wouldn't you be?" "You liked it," Xera says frankly, "you just don't want to admit that you did. And, it's also why you're doing a terrible job of convincing me that you love me." 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "That happened before I quit playing the manipulation game. It's actually one of the biggest reasons /why/ I quit it," Navi retorts softly. "I won't deny that Thaarin is good company, and quite good at kissing, but the alcohol made it possible, at least in my case. Men just don't interest me. Which I'm sure may one day break Cayde's heart, but he's Jedi... such relations are forbidden to him, and in the end he may be happier for it." She's not about to tell Xera that men /frighten/ her... "I also have a feeling that I'm here because you want something from me... and a chance at your love is the bait. It's the best bait you could set for me. It really is." 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "As if," Xera says, "I still don't believe you. And you're digging yourself into an even deeper hole by admitting he's good company and a good kisser," she huffs. "At least that much I won't deny. However, you've contradicted yourself. If Thaarin didn't interest you at all, you wouldn't have found kissing him pleasant." She smooths her robe and sips her drink once more. "Don't pretend like you're easy bait, Navi," she scoffs. "it's disgusting." "What I want is for you to step down as co-deputy. Let me assume your responsibility, and you can finally relax. Then you could stay in here all day and enjoy all my luxuries, without a care in the world. Perhaps I'll even invite my family here and show you off a bit. Isn't that what you've always wanted? " 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' Navi hugs her elbows, shivering and staring at the floor. "So I would go from being Co-Deputy to being your pet, then?" she asks, without rancor or judgement. Only curiosity, and perhaps some sadness. "A pretty companion to show off and pamper to your heart's content? To be by your side when you needed an ornament for your arm on social occasions, perhaps?" She looks up at Xera, a few slow tears beginning to slide down her cheeks. "If only your love was part of that bargain..." she whispers. "I would have given this badge to you without a second's thought. But I don't think you love me nearly as much as I love you, Xera. I doubt you love me at all, really. To you, I would be like that robe... a pretty trinket, to be worn and shown off, and set aside when the seasons changed. I can't accept your bargain, Xera. I'm sorry..." 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Xera just gives Navi a bland look. "Pets are loved," she says, shrugging casually. "Fine. Whatever. You don't have to accept. Avi will see you out." She then stands up, getting ready to leave. 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "It's not the same, Xera. I can see myself out. Thank you for the offer, but I am very likely to slap Avi in that cruel mouth of hers if I must deal with her again... and it /will/ hurt," Navi replies softly, draining the last of her small drink and standing. "Thank you for the drink, and for showing me your beautiful new robe. Do call me next time you want to show off your wardrobe." 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Xera doesn't even dignify Navi with a reply. She waves dismissively at the young Sephi girl and turns her back on her as heads for her bedroom, appearing non plussed. 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' Navi watches Xera withdraw to her bedroom. Then, somewhat against her better judgement, she follows her, right into the bedroom... 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' The woman is sitting at her vanity dresser, and has let her hair down as she starts to try on a variety of diamond chokers. She looks up and sees Navi in the mirror behind her. "Change your mind?" she says airily. 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "No," Navi replies, as airily, walking right up behind Xera. "Just thought I'd see what I was missing out on." She indicates a choker set with black stones, not yet tried on. "That one would suit you well," she observes softly. "Not that that ruby piece isn't sumptuous, but it matches your hair too well..." 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "Mm. Yes. Perhaps," she says. She picks up the choker that Navi has indicated, and examines herself in the mirror. She makes a face, not quite satisfied, and takes it off. 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "Oh... my mistake. It doesn't go so well with your robe," Navi observes softly, lightly resting her hands on Xera's shoulders, looking at the tall woman's reflection in the mirror, some small, mean part of her savoring being able to look over her head. "Of course, you could always take the robe /off/..." she whispers. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Xera then looks offended. She stands up and pushes Navi's hands off of her, looking annoyed. "You haven't changed your mind, so you're not going to get any of the privileges that come with agreeing to my bargain." She rolls her eyes. "If you really loved me, and wanted me, then you'd do what I want. I suppose you don't, so you'll just have to live without what you want so badly." She then makes a shooing motion at Navi. "Now go. You've overstayed your welcome." 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' Navi can't help chuckling at Xera's annoyed reaction. "I've finally begun to understand you," she says softly. "And I think the best way I could show you how much I love you is to /never/ give you what you want. You crave too much control... you /need/ someone to tell you, 'no' from time to time. And I think this badge is the only thing you'll listen to." "Enjoy your empty boudoir and your pretty trinkets, my lovely Lady Graf," she says, turning toward the door, still chuckling. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "You're wrong," Xera says spitefully. "You can wave that badge all you want. But in the end, you'll remember I'm the coin purse, and if things don't go my way, the colony will have to find its own funding. Otherwise, when winter comes, you'll all starve. Or freeze. Or both." "I will control Aklyrr Bend, whether you do what I want, or not. I have resources at my disposal that you wouldn't even dream of, -Deputy-." Then, when Navi goes out, she closes the door behind her, haughtily. 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' Navi shakes her head as she gets outside. "Should I tell her we can all just move to Kublop Springs or, better, go home to the Core?" She glances back at the pent-hab, then grins, shaking her head. "Nah... let her find out for herself..." 
}}

Manipulation Games

2025-12-08T02:58:59Z

Andromeda: Created page with "{{Log Header |Date of Scene=2025-10-06 |Cast of Characters=159, 261 |pretty=yes }} {{Poses |Poses=:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' After Cayde had been returned to Kublop and promptly sent to the hospital, the young Sephi would likely have seen the young padawan settled and then had little to do after. The doctor had told her they'd done all they could for Cayde, and now it was just a waiting game to see how quickly he would recover from the swelli..."

{{Log Header
|Date of Scene=2025-10-06
|Cast of Characters=159, 261
|pretty=yes
}}
{{Poses
|Poses=:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' After Cayde had been returned to Kublop and promptly sent to the hospital, the young Sephi would likely have seen the young padawan settled and then had little to do after. The doctor had told her they'd done all they could for Cayde, and now it was just a waiting game to see how quickly he would recover from the swelling and allergic reactions. He'd thanked her, and then immediately had had to leave, to coordinate when he could formally be seeing some of the farmers for counseling sessions regarding the nightmares. As it is, there's not much for Navi to do in Kublop, and as co-deputy and with Cayde out of the picture, she's likely going to have to return to Aklyrr Bend to review the long list of complaints that had apparently been filed in the very short leave of absence she'd taken to search for the young padawan... 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' Navi somewhat reluctantly returns to Aklyrr Bend or, as she refers to it, Whatever Bend. "What the frell is an Aklyrr, anyway..?" she murmurs as she boards the tram and takes a seat, settling into a meditative trance to rest during the long ride back to the colony site. "And why give it a name when its odds of even being there in a year or two are so low?" 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Once Navi arrives back at the colony site, she'll find herself interrupted by that awful assistant of Xera's, Avi. "Haven't you checked your messages?" she replies haughtily. "Madame Graf wants to see you." 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "No, because I've barely gotten back from Kublop Springs. Which you know," Navi replies, trying to remain patient. "Thank you for telling me, even if you weren't doing it to be helpful, or even nice." 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Avi just turns up her nose at Navi and flounces off, arms folded. Well, Navi should probably go see Xera, and figure out what the Graf Lady wants to demand from her now... 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "Xera, I love you, but you have the /worst/ taste in help," Navi murmurs. She sends off a quick message to Xera, reading, < Just found out you wanted to see me. I will delay only long enough to clean up and change into clean clothes. After the day I've had, I doubt you want to see or smell me right now. I'll be as quick as possible. > She signs it and hurries to her little hab-shelter. Twenty minutes later, clean, in fresh clothes, her long pigtails still slightly damp and smelling of shampoo, she presses the doorchime button next to the door of Xera's deluxe pent-hab. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' The Lady Graf doesn't even bother to let Navi in herself, but the young Sephi girl probably won't be surprised. It's only in character for Xera, sadly. The doors to Xera's hab slide open, and a droid escorts her in, gesturing for her to sit on the fur lined couches in the living area. Moments later, the Lady appears, wearing a shimmersilk robe. "Navi," she says, smiling that sickly sweet smile that doesn't feel genuine at all. "It's good to see you. Or shall I call you, Deputy, now?" she sits down across from the young Sephi girl. "Did you find the padawan?" she asks. 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "I love your robe, Xera," Navi says by way of greeting, relaxing on one of the couches. "And that depends on how formal you prefer to be. I prefer Navi, but I know how you prefer to keep a distance between us. As for the Padawan, he is alive and safe, even if he will be in the hospital in Kublop Springs for at least a few days." 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' The smile widens. "Why, thank you. It costs me about four thousand credits. Custom made, on Ghorman." She sits down on the couch opposite to Navi. When she says that Cayde has been found, her expression becomes unreadable. "Oh," is all she says. There's a pause. "Avi," she says, "will you get us some tonic and gin? I know that's what Navi likes." She then turns back to Navi. "Anyway. You're not still hanging around Thaarin much, are you?" 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "No, but he hangs around me occasionally. But it's strictly business. I know he's an incorrigible flirt, and I'm happy to let him do his own thing. And he, in turn, doesn't flirt with me. He knows I'm not interested, you see," Navi replies gently, with the sort of nonchalance that goes well with speaking about a subject that doesn't bother her at all. "As for the robe, shimmersilk becomes you. I hope I didn't disturb your rest." "Oh, and please remind Avi not to poison my drink? I'm still not her favorite person," she adds, impishly. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' She ignores Navi's compliment, and pours herself a drink as soon as Avi arrives with the refreshments. "You say that," Xera says, sounding dissatisfied and avoiding eye contact with the Sephi girl, "but something tells me that you'd kiss him in a heartbeat if it got both you and him exactly what you wanted." She taps her fingers on her glass, and the clinking sound is unpleasant. She finally looks over at Navi. 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "Manipulation is an ugly game, and one I've given up playing," Navi replies, shaking her head. "There was a time I would have kissed him, if it meant saving your life. But that time is past, and I'm tired of lies. Mine, especially." She pours a finger of gin and tonic and takes a small sip. "I lied to you once, and for that I am truly sorry. I did it with the best of intentions. But lies never lead anywhere good, and mine were no exception." 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Xera seems even more offended. "If that was an attempt to get into my good graces, well you sorely failed," she says sharply. "Because first of all, you should do any and everything your power to save me if I was ever in danger. Secondly, I don't believe you. At all." "Are you sure you wouldn't kiss him, if it meant Coruscant sent more Core World friendly foods, ones that assuredly wouldn't make Cayde sick? Are you sure you wouldn't, if you knew that the botanists who were hired to come on this initiative, were assigned to study, cultivate, and conduct their research on native plants on Tenoo right next door to your co-deputy's tent?" Then she shrugs. "Now, don't get me wrong. I'm not trying to say you ought to go and kiss Thaarin. I'm just saying that I think you're still lying about being attracted to him, and I also doubt that you aren't playing your own little game. Because everyone has a game, Navi. And if you don't, well, you'll be a puppet to those who do. And you aren't stupid. At least you don't -seem- to be. I should hope, you aren't, and you've enough sense in you to realize that what I'm saying is true." 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "I already have done all in my power to save you. And I continue to," Navi protests softly, struggling a little to keep her voice even. She's come to expect confrontational meetings with Xera, but that doesn't mean she likes them. "But somehow I doubt kissing Thaarin would protect your life, see Cayde given a healthier diet, or see those botanical experiments moved away from his tent. Perhaps you might enjoy watching me kiss him... I've no idea how you feel about watching lovemaking in progress. But I wouldn't enjoy doing it. I'm not sure how he'd feel about it. He's far, far more drawn to men than I am, or so I've witnessed. Sometimes I wonder if he would kiss himself, if there were ever two of him. And that's no slight to him. Merely a rather immature mature joke." "Perhaps I do have a game, Xera, since we all seem to. But I don't play it the same way as you," she says softly. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "Well of course it won't," Xera snaps. Then her tone evens out and she says softly, "I was simply making a point." "Don't be stupid," she then says icily, "it's obvious, he draws the attention of both and revels in it." She takes a sip of her drink, "You're not convincing me, Navi." Then she says sharply. "I saw you kissing him at that club on Vuundalla. You're a poor actress, and if you didn't like the way he seduced you, it would have shown. You were clearly having a good time, you just don't want to admit that you were. Why, you two are peas in a pod, Navi, finding yourselves pulled in by any manner of person who makes you feel... seen, and known." She smirks a little. "Well, whatever. I don't mind if you play your own games, I just care that in the end, I win. I hold all the cards, after all. And if you want to convince me that you really do love me, you're going to have to try another angle, because you still haven't persuaded me." 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "Well of /course/ you saw me kissing him... you were /meant/ to," Navi replies, a hint of heat entering her tone. "The whole thing was arranged to make you jealous... the only wrinkle was the shots he was ordering were twice as strong as I had expected, which is probably why he became sick afterward, poor man." She doesn't bother mentioning that she could purge the alcohol from her system almost at will, Force willing. "Seeing and being seen aren't normally things that bother me one way or another, which is why I haven't show Avi the back of my hand on a number of occasions. Sparring with her would almost be fun if she weren't so embarrasingly bad at it," she observes. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "See," Lady Xera says, "That's the problem. You wanted me to be jealous so you didn't hesitate to kiss him. I'm no fool, Navi. I know you were playing games then, and probably still are, now. Why wouldn't you be?" "You liked it," Xera says frankly, "you just don't want to admit that you did. And, it's also why you're doing a terrible job of convincing me that you love me." 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "That happened before I quit playing the manipulation game. It's actually one of the biggest reasons /why/ I quit it," Navi retorts softly. "I won't deny that Thaarin is good company, and quite good at kissing, but the alcohol made it possible, at least in my case. Men just don't interest me. Which I'm sure may one day break Cayde's heart, but he's Jedi... such relations are forbidden to him, and in the end he may be happier for it." She's not about to tell Xera that men /frighten/ her... "I also have a feeling that I'm here because you want something from me... and a chance at your love is the bait. It's the best bait you could set for me. It really is." 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "As if," Xera says, "I still don't believe you. And you're digging yourself into an even deeper hole by admitting he's good company and a good kisser," she huffs. "At least that much I won't deny. However, you've contradicted yourself. If Thaarin didn't interest you at all, you wouldn't have found kissing him pleasant." She smooths her robe and sips her drink once more. "Don't pretend like you're easy bait, Navi," she scoffs. "it's disgusting." "What I want is for you to step down as co-deputy. Let me assume your responsibility, and you can finally relax. Then you could stay in here all day and enjoy all my luxuries, without a care in the world. Perhaps I'll even invite my family here and show you off a bit. Isn't that what you've always wanted? " 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' Navi hugs her elbows, shivering and staring at the floor. "So I would go from being Co-Deputy to being your pet, then?" she asks, without rancor or judgement. Only curiosity, and perhaps some sadness. "A pretty companion to show off and pamper to your heart's content? To be by your side when you needed an ornament for your arm on social occasions, perhaps?" She looks up at Xera, a few slow tears beginning to slide down her cheeks. "If only your love was part of that bargain..." she whispers. "I would have given this badge to you without a second's thought. But I don't think you love me nearly as much as I love you, Xera. I doubt you love me at all, really. To you, I would be like that robe... a pretty trinket, to be worn and shown off, and set aside when the seasons changed. I can't accept your bargain, Xera. I'm sorry..." 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Xera just gives Navi a bland look. "Pets are loved," she says, shrugging casually. "Fine. Whatever. You don't have to accept. Avi will see you out." She then stands up, getting ready to leave. 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "It's not the same, Xera. I can see myself out. Thank you for the offer, but I am very likely to slap Avi in that cruel mouth of hers if I must deal with her again... and it /will/ hurt," Navi replies softly, draining the last of her small drink and standing. "Thank you for the drink, and for showing me your beautiful new robe. Do call me next time you want to show off your wardrobe." 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Xera doesn't even dignify Navi with a reply. She waves dismissively at the young Sephi girl and turns her back on her as heads for her bedroom, appearing non plussed. 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' Navi watches Xera withdraw to her bedroom. Then, somewhat against her better judgement, she follows her, right into the bedroom... 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' The woman is sitting at her vanity dresser, and has let her hair down as she starts to try on a variety of diamond chokers. She looks up and sees Navi in the mirror behind her. "Change your mind?" she says airily. 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "No," Navi replies, as airily, walking right up behind Xera. "Just thought I'd see what I was missing out on." She indicates a choker set with black stones, not yet tried on. "That one would suit you well," she observes softly. "Not that that ruby piece isn't sumptuous, but it matches your hair too well..." 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "Mm. Yes. Perhaps," she says. She picks up the choker that Navi has indicated, and examines herself in the mirror. She makes a face, not quite satisfied, and takes it off. 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "Oh... my mistake. It doesn't go so well with your robe," Navi observes softly, lightly resting her hands on Xera's shoulders, looking at the tall woman's reflection in the mirror, some small, mean part of her savoring being able to look over her head. "Of course, you could always take the robe /off/..." she whispers. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Xera then looks offended. She stands up and pushes Navi's hands off of her, looking annoyed. "You haven't changed your mind, so you're not going to get any of the privileges that come with agreeing to my bargain." She rolls her eyes. "If you really loved me, and wanted me, then you'd do what I want. I suppose you don't, so you'll just have to live without what you want so badly." She then makes a shooing motion at Navi. "Now go. You've overstayed your welcome." 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' Navi can't help chuckling at Xera's annoyed reaction. "I've finally begun to understand you," she says softly. "And I think the best way I could show you how much I love you is to /never/ give you what you want. You crave too much control... you /need/ someone to tell you, 'no' from time to time. And I think this badge is the only thing you'll listen to." "Enjoy your empty boudoir and your pretty trinkets, my lovely Lady Graf," she says, turning toward the door, still chuckling. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "You're wrong," Xera says spitefully. "You can wave that badge all you want. But in the end, you'll remember I'm the coin purse, and if things don't go my way, the colony will have to find its own funding. Otherwise, when winter comes, you'll all starve. Or freeze. Or both." "I will control Aklyrr Bend, whether you do what I want, or not. I have resources at my disposal that you wouldn't even dream of, -Deputy-." Then, when Navi goes out, she closes the door behind her, haughtily. 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' Navi shakes her head as she gets outside. "Should I tell her we can all just move to Kublop Springs or, better, go home to the Core?" She glances back at the pent-hab, then grins, shaking her head. "Nah... let her find out for herself..." 
}}

Clone Quandary

2025-12-08T00:10:04Z

Andromeda:

{{Log Header
|Date of Scene=2025-11-07
|Cast of Characters=159, 381, 444, 261, 296, 143, 418
|pretty=yes
|Location=Kublop Springs - Tenoo - Outer Rim
}}
{{Poses
|Poses=:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' With the twin Mandalorians being held hostage by the other three, the doctor has gathered leadership (minus Xera and the Arkanians, who seem to be missing), to discuss next steps. He'd invited Zetha as well, but she likely wouldn't have gotten the invite in as timely as a fashion as the rest. Sequestered in the hearth room of the inn the doctor is currently staying on, he bids them all to sit, then begins with, "Based off of what Cayde had said about one of their minds being less than a year old, plus everything else we've learned about them so far, it seems reasonable to assume that at least one of them is a clone." He sighs deeply. "This doesn't bode well. Any living bred in isolation like that and then suddenly exposed to reality -must- be unstable. I need to study him," he says, "before any us try to get answers out of him." He looks to Pike, and then Navi, and then to Cayde. "I hope you understand," he says, "and I hope that I can count you all to handle him - if he gets out of control." By now, the doctor would have made his intentions to the Mandalorians known, and very clear. He wanted them to release the supposed clone, into Republic custody. However, their interests might not have aligned. 

:'''{{#var:381|Pike Windu (381)}} has posed:'''     Pike tuns away from the others to take a swig from a flask he's hiding in his great coat. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Meanwhile, the identical barons remain in Jorn, Volken, and Ellari's custody, although Kasseady probably has been given some freedom to roam - but not without supervision. The other likely remains locked away somewhere, but his relentless asking about the Dark Saber hasn't stopped. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha walks into the private room shorly after Soren has begun talking. She looks around at those gathered and then she flushes. "Sorry I'm late. Just got your message a little bit ago, Doctor." Then she looks for an empty seat and takes it. But she stays quiet, for sure she'll catch up or on with anything in no time. 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "I'm not sure whether to hope the Mandalorians agree or disagree," Navi observes, a bit wearily, from her seat beside Cayde. "But if we're needed, we'll be there. We always are." 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     Ellari isn't quite sure if turning the twin and the clone over to Republic custody is a good idea. But ultimately, she'd leave that decision to Jorn. They're his prisoners, after all. It's also up to Jorn whether he eventually lets the clone see the Darksaber or not. However, his incessant demands are quite annoying, so she probably knocked him out once or twice. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde nods in response to Soren, frowning pensively. Of course the Arkanians would choose to conveniently disappear. But since they're nowhere to be found, would that mean they're not in their lab?     [We can search the lab] he suggests. 

:'''{{#var:418|Jorn (418)}} has posed:''' Jorn is conflicted as to what to do. Clones are illegal. So, it would be okay if he just puts two blaster bolts in the temple of the clone. But if they have memory somehow, that serves him in a grander scale. He's conflicted. Rage therapy versus potential honor returning to his name. Yes, Jorn knows the choice that should win, but that doesn't mean it's not hard. "Do they have memory?" he asks openly to anyone that could answer this one. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "Pike," The doctor says solemnly. "I need to know you're focused, and all in." He nods to Zetha, and gestures for her to sit. "I want you to be a part of the study that I conduct on this supposed clone," he says to Zetha, "if the Mandalorians allow it."    "We'll figure out the lab part later. I actually don't know where it is. My guess is its somewhere quite inaccessible to all of us." Kasseady growls at Jorn. "Of course they have memory! He's his own person.... I think." 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     "According to the Jedi boy, about a year's worth." Ellari replies. "If you ask me, the legality of all this is Republic business. So if we hand them over, we shouldn't do it for free. Credits, or maybe a favor..." she muses. "If not, I say we undo Caine's mistakes and simply put a blaster to his head." 

:'''{{#var:381|Pike Windu (381)}} has posed:'''     Pike nod deliberately. "Find the lab, destroy it. Get the clone, kill it." 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     [There must be a record] Cayde insists. If the Arkanians had permission to build their lab, then surely they'd had a permit and authorization to conduct whatever experiments they had planned in Aklyrr. 

:'''{{#var:418|Jorn (418)}} has posed:''' "I was asking the Doctor," Jorn says to Kasseady. That's something he's very sure with. Right now, he looks at Ellari. "I want information. I want what Volken was told. From the source, directly. With recordings. I want the world to hear it from him. That's what I want," Jorn says this all firmly. "Everyone else could take the cred, the clones, the armor, anything else. I just want that information." A look goes toward Kasseady, "I don't have it. Sorry." Oh, that's a bold face lie and a half. 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "His own obsessed-with-the-Darksaber person... whatever the Darksaber is," Navi observes, off of Kasseady's growling. "So he's kind of a one-hit wonder. Like the recording's stuck in one place. Could that be a sign of neural degradation?" 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha just stands at the back of everything and remains silent for a moment. "Me? Help with a study? What good will I be? I'm just a scrapper.." And has absolutely no experience in being suddenly thrown into a whole new world. Nope. Nada. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "What? No," The doctor says when Pike suggests that they should kill the clone. "He's right," he says in response to Kasseady, "he -is- his own person. Even if he's not here to speak for himself currently..." He frowns when Ellari suggests they don't hand them over for free, but leaves the comment unaddressed for now. "You'll get that," he says, "if you just let me conduct my study. Right now, he's not in a frame of mind to tell you anything that you can be absolutely certain didn't come from a place of mental instability." He looks at Navi gravely when she says something about neuro-degradation and sighs, shaking his head. "I don't like it, but you're probably right..." He turns to Zetha. "I want to see how he reacts to you," he says to Zetha. "Clearly, his host had affection for you. But perhaps he himself does not know you. Or maybe he does. Perhaps he'll have the same affection." He turns to Jorn. "I know you have the Dark Saber. I want you to turn the clone over to me, and I also want you to show him the Dark Saber. I want to see how he responds." 

:'''{{#var:381|Pike Windu (381)}} has posed:'''     "The clone is an abomination and must be put down." Pike takes another swig of his liquid courage, not trying to conceal the flask now. 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     "You want that, do you?" Ellari asks Soren, folding her arms. "And what would -we- get in return? What does Jorn get? Surely, you are a man of justice?" She asks, nodding at Jorn's words of demand. "What could you offer, to help us right the wrongs done by the Von'egel twins?" 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde glances between Zetha and Soren as the doctor basically suggests she try to...enamor him. What was the point of all this? How would he help them locate the Arkanians? He was just -born-. Probably doesn't even know where he was born.     Since no one seems to have been paying attention to his suggestion about the lab permits, he turns and starts to head toward the marshal's and other administrative offices. Had to be -something- there, right? Aklyrr isn't -that- big. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha blinks while biting the inside of her lip and looking away. "I highly doubt it was actual affection or attraction being shown towards me..." She offers softly, perhaps so only Soren could hear her. Though when Pike chimes in with his opinions on the clone she looks over. "That's a horrible thing to say! And cruel! How can you so casually say that someone deserves to die like that...." She then notices how Cayde begins to leave. "Cayde? Where are you off to?" 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "If the degradation persists, he may not be his own person much longer," Navi adds. "The laws regarding cloning and clones are very clear... but we /are/ rather far from Coruscant, and this situation is unusual. The clone may somehow be of help to us in righting a greater wrong, though I'm not yet sure how. I'm also unsure trying to pair the clone off with Miss Zetha is ethical or prudent. I wouldn't want it done to me, were I in her shoes." She looks up at Zetha's question to Cayde. "That's a good question, Cayde... where /are/ you off to?" she asks the Padawan's back. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' The doctor shakes his head at Pike. "I won't allow it. We can't just decide to end his life before we've even assessed his individuality," he says. "He's not a droid." His brows furrow when Ellari asks him what he could offer. "And you're saying I should just take your word for what justice looks like? I'd be more willing, perhaps, if you let me stand witness to his trial. Jorn will get his answers, and if I can complete my study, assessment, and therapy, he'll get good ones. Is that not enough?" "Maybe not," the doctor says to Zetha, "but out of all of us, you stand the best chance of getting through to him. He might not be the one we're looking for, but there's no way he doesn't know how to get in contact with him. He's far too precious an asset for the baron to have just cut him off entirely." But then Cayde is running off and Zetha as well as Navi aren't the only ones to notice. Thaarin gets up to follow him. "I'm going to help him," he announces. "Good luck to anyone else who would like to accompany me... it's not a task for the faint of heart." Cayde will find himself wandering towards the little building the mayor of Kublop had given the leadership of Aklyrr Bend. It's sort of like an overflow office - full of paperwork and other miscellaneous documents that weren't needed to operate the colony on a daily basis, plus all the resources necessary for reporting, as the comm center in Aklyrr Bend is still under construction. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde actually stops and turns around momentarily when Zetha and Navi ask him where he's going. [Find records of lab permits] he explains. [Thank you] he nods to Thaarin. Then he turns around and again continues toward the offices. He starts with one of the workstations, looking for information about any authorizations pertaining to the lab. Something had to have its location. Really, Aklyrr wasn't big. 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     Ellari doesn't say any more. She wants more than just -answers-...but she doubts the doctor will agree. So she just shrugs and glances over toward Jorn. this was his decision, anyway. 

:'''{{#var:418|Jorn (418)}} has posed:''' "I need what I need soon. The sooner the better. Time is not a luxury I can afford. Nor is it one I can spare. How soon can I get that information?" Jorn asks plainly. He can't stay around, or wait, for intense therapy. That could take months. He has hours, maybe days. Other than that, Jorn doesn't care what happens. Honestly, he believes a long walk off of a short plank into very large grinder would be his preference. However, he does not care after the information. They need to stand justice. How that justice comes is not his decision. 

:'''{{#var:381|Pike Windu (381)}} has posed:'''     Pike rises to his feet, the drunkeness melting away as he regains some remembered dignity. "I am a Jedi Master. The clone is of the Dark Side. It WILL...be exterminated." 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha grimaces a little and then shakes her head. "How can you be so certain the clone is of the Dark Side... and further... have you even been able to determine if he's...what do you call it... Force Sensitive? I read about that in a book. You're condemning before giving a chance... aren't you Jedi supposed to be about trying to save someone from the Dark Side and not just...eradicating existence?" It's cruel. To Zetha anyway. And she shakes her head again before looking between the Doctor and Jorn. "Well when do I get to meet this person and we can figure out if there's a glint of recognition in his eyes when he sees me? Maybe -that- will determine he's worth at least a chance and not a death warrant." 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "It's not that simple, Zetha. I really wish it were," Navi says. "Even if the Dark Side weren't a factor, clones and cloning are illegal because of the potential for unethical treatment of clones, even by people with the best of intentions who have never raised a hand in anger against a clone, and never would. Clones are prone to neural degradation... it's like dementia, only faster and more catastrophic. And even clones who don't have the worst cases of it are subject to it in some ways. It's just unethical to create a sentient being, only for it to suffer and eventually die in such a manner." 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' When Cayde and Thaarin arrive at the overflow office, they'll find things are an utter mess. There's datapads strewn everywhere, and even random pieces of flimsiplast lying on the ground here and there. The consoles are up and running at least, but finding anything in here is going to be... somewhat difficult. The doctor seems exasperated when Pike says the clone is of the Dark Side. "How do you even know that?" he says, his frown deepening. "You haven't even seen him for yourself. Zetha's right," he says. "You should be ashamed of yourself." He then turns to Jorn. "I can't guarantee timeline," he says, "and I know what you're thinking - it's going to take months. And I can assure you right now, that if you cooperate fully, it won't." He then looks to Zetha. "We should go now," he says, and then his gaze flicks to Jorn, "as long as the Mandalorians are willing to let me conduct my work as I see fit." He shakes his head at Navi. "They're only prone to neural degradation because no one ever was ever able to create a clone, successfully. All records of genetic experimentation of this kind resulted in the test subjects dying within days of their birth. This supposed clone... is clearly older than that. What kind of shape he's in mentally, I don't know. We're in uncharted waters, Navi. This is why I need to study him..." 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "Be careful, doctor. This is an extremely dangerous course of study, especially from a moral and ethical perspective," Navi advises worriedly. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde sighs and starts trying to work one of the terminals, not going for any of the random flimsiplast lying around. 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     "Not months? Then how long?" Ellari asks, folding her arms. "I don't know how much longer it will be before someone -else- shows up here looking for a fight over the Darksaber." 

:'''{{#var:418|Jorn (418)}} has posed:''' "I need a rough timeline. I don't need concrete," but he gestures to Ellari. "Her words hold a lot of wait right now." Jorn just backs up that sentiment right now. 

:'''{{#var:381|Pike Windu (381)}} has posed:'''     Pike scoffs and shakes his head in supreme annoyance. "You're not Jedi. You don't understand." The Master takes another swig and backs down. He mutters to himself, "it will be done." 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha clenches her jaw and shakes her head. "Maybe if you stopped drinking from that flask so much your mind would be clearer to listen to reason and make better decisions. The Jedi aren't judge, jury and executioner all in one as far as I'm concerned. And you aren't the King of Tenoo..." Then she looks at Soren and nods her head before glancing to Jorn and Ellari. "We can probably get you a better timeline after the doctor and I see this person. Will you please oblige us and let us meet them?" 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "I'm just here to make sure history doesn't repeat itself," he says to Navi, "and if I have to be the sacrificial happabore then so be it. But it'll be alright," He says, "I promise." He looks to Jorn and Ellari. "Perhaps four to six weeks. But I just told you, I can't really guarantee a timeline. Zetha's right. Let me see him first, then I can give you a better answer." He sighs when Pike scoffs at him. "Perhaps you ought to go back to the colony and rest," he says, "you seem overwhelmed and aren't in your right mind. Regardless, I can't let you just get rid of this supposed clone. He's not disposable." Thaarin seems surprised when Cayde is immediately able to get into one of the terminals. His lips press into a thin line, "You've been in here before, haven't you? You're not supposed to know the password to the console for long range comms." He frowns. "Wait, you're the one who's been coming in here and surfing the Holonet, aren't you??" He shakes his head. "Cayde... what did I tell you about social etiquette on the holonetworks..." He sighs. Cayde can defend himself, or ignore Thaarin - he'll see that there's an archive of files that are documents recording what was permitted to be brought to and built on Tenoo. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde pouts slightly at Thaarin. [It is....] he pauses. [...it helps me...is...productive.] See?     He sifts through the data, locating the archive. The padawan gestures for Thaarin to come over. [Building permit] he signs, and nods, starting to look for the files pertaining to the labs. 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     "Hmph." Ellari doesn't say much more, simply looking to Jorn again. It was ultimately his decision. 

:'''{{#var:381|Pike Windu (381)}} has posed:'''     "Perhaps I should go back to the colony and burn it down. This whole mission is a waste of time." The Jedi empties his flask and groans in frustration. 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "Maybe I'd better go with you, Master," Navi says, moving to join Pike. "It's a long tram ride back." 

:'''{{#var:418|Jorn (418)}} has posed:''' "Weeks!? Weeks?! I told you I have days, if I'm lucky." Jorn looks at the Doctor for a moment. "If you can't give me results sooner, I'll have to figure out an alternative route. I don't have the luxury of time, remmeber?" Jorn sounds very annoyed like the doctor didn't really listen to him at all. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha bites her tongue, figuratively, when it comes to responding to Pike. Though she has words in her head for him but they will remain there. She then looks between Jorn and Ellari. "For the love of everything... will you please just let us see this person so we can figure out a proper timeline? Us standing around here after having asked a few times and you're just delaying it...isn't really helping anything." Her hands are on her hips now, like she's trying to look like she means business. Or something. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Thaarin arches a brow at Cayde. "Is it? Certainly doesn't seem like it," he mutters. But then they're moving onto more important matters. He helps Cayde scroll the documents, but all they'll find is a permit for them to occupy a small mailing room in Kublop Springs, and a temporary laboratory at colony site. The temporary laboratory, Cayde will have seen already, it's attached to the infirmary, and is mostly just storage for things like lab equipment... The doctor shakes his head. "And you're drunk," He says to Pike, shaking his head. "You can accompany him if you like Navi, but I was really hoping you could join us for the assessment of the clone. Cayde's gone off with Thaarin, and we could use a hand in the calming department." "And what is that alternative route?" the doctor argues. "You're not going to get reliable answers from him, even if you chop off all his limbs. He can't give you answers regarding people and places he barely remembers, nor do I think he possesses much self awareness. And then what if you do, and he still doesn't cooperate? What's your game plan, then? Dead men tell no tales." 

:'''{{#var:418|Jorn (418)}} has posed:''' "A computer can get hacked. Jedi can crack the mind. I'm sure something can be done to bring up memory," he states looking at the Doctor as Jorn knows torture is not the route to go. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde frowns at that 'temporary' lab space apparently only for storage. Is that the truth? Perhaps they should search it. He looks to Thaarin. [Storage...no...we should check] he signs. And then check the 'mailing' room. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha Rumir sighs and looks over to Soren for a moment before back to the Mandalorians. "I know my way around metal and stuff. I'll go find this person myself and drag them off of this ship so we can do our thing with talking to them and you can go about your merry. If you need any information from them we can always send it to you afterwards. Since you really seem keen to get off this planet in a hurry. Not that I blame you. Tenoo can be -boring- but.." She shrugs. "I think we've been more than patient trying to come to agreeable terms and pushing back isn't getting you anything any sooner than you want it." 

:'''{{#var:381|Pike Windu (381)}} has posed:'''     The local rotgut starts to take effect. Pike wanders off, blathering about his mission and planets being the farthest from a bright center of the universe. 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' Navi looks after Pike. "Maybe I'd better at least accompany him to the tram station. I can make myself available if you need me, Doctor, Zetha," she volunteers. "But please speak up." 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "If you want access to the Jedi's help," the doctor says, "you're going to have to do things the Republic's way. And if you don't want to do that, then sorry, you're out of the luck." He turns and heads out of the hearth room, ushering Zetha out as well if she lets him. Once they're out of earshot, he says to her, "Look, I agree with you. But next time, try not to be so obvious about our intentions. We don't want them actively trying to prevent us from finding the clone and talking to him - you know what Mandalorian forms of dissuasion look like." "I'll reach out later," he says to Navi, "looks like we're just going to have to do this -without- the Mandalorian's permission. Light help us...we're going to need all the help we can get. But for now, make sure Pike gets back to the colony safely." "I've spoken to Vons about the mailing room already," the tall blue alien says to Cayde, "he's searched it and there's nothing of interest there anymore. We'd best head back to the colony site and search for any other clues in the old storage facility." He then starts to make his way back towards the tram station, where Navi and Pike are also likely heading 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde nods and follows him out, wondering where else the Arkanians could have gone. There weren't many other habitable places on this planet. And if they left the planet, there had to be a log at the port. But first things first... 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha does allow herself to be ushered away and after listening to Soren, she protests a little. "I was only reiterating what you were saying..." She offers and then makes a face. "Okay maybe threatening to find this clone and haul him away wasn't the /best/ thing I've said...but..." She stops herself and takes a breath. "You're right. Sorry. I was just getting really frustrated with them and with what Pike was saying...and I'm still trying to figure out how to compartmentalize emotions. I'll do better." There's a pause. "So...what now?" 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' Navi pauses to hug Zetha supportively. "For starters, there's this. Then there's finding out what those sneaky Arkanians are up to. The Vergence has got to be the key to their breakthroughs. There's no way they're far from it. That's where we need to focus our search," she suggests. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "I understand," the doctor says, "and we're on the same page about taking matters into our own hands. The Mandalorians just can't know when," he says, "it's too late to make sure they don't know we plan to at all. But it's alright - we'll figure it out, don't worry." the doctor reassures her, patting her shoulder firmly but gently. "I'm going to head back to the colony, now. I've got to talk to Thaarin and Vons about finding a way to that clone, without the Mandalorians knowing." Then he glances over at Navi. "She's right, the vergence is key to their breakthroughs. If the lab is anywhere, it's probably somewhere in the Gorge or near it. I know that doesn't narrow our search much, and it's risky - the Gorge is dangerous, uncharted, and difficult to navigate." "In the meantime, try asking around for 'Jasper.' Maybe he'll catch wind of it and come looking for you. But be careful, don't make yourself available at night, or in places where you'd be alone and cornered. If you can't stay at home because of the renovations, I'm sure Crane will be more than happy to share a bed with you at the convent." Then he starts for tram station. "I'll see you soon," He says to Zetha, "and as always, don't be afraid to reach out if you need anything." 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "I don't think we're going to get anywhere with the Mandalorians without bargaining in good faith, and any attempt to do otherwise won't end well for us. Or them. But especially us," Navi contributes. "So I won't be part of any effort that isn't about dealing with them in good faith. Besides, do you really want to be the one to tell Volk that we're taking the clone from them? I sure as frell don't. And won't." 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha returns the hug from Navi and then glances to Soren again. "Alright. I'll do better." Then he mentions she should poke around about 'Jasper', maybe bring him out of hiding. She tries not to smile at that and just nods her head. "I'm between the convent and the junkyard...but it works out alright. I think I'll go see if Crane is free. Be safe, both of you." And then she turns to head towards the convent. 
}}

Clone Quandary

2025-12-08T00:09:23Z

Andromeda: Created page with "{{Log Header |Date of Scene=2025-11-07 |Cast of Characters=159, 381, 444, 261, 296, 143, 418 |pretty=yes }} {{Poses |Poses=:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' With the twin Mandalorians being held hostage by the other three, the doctor has gathered leadership (minus Xera and the Arkanians, who seem to be missing), to discuss next steps. He'd invited Zetha as well, but she likely wouldn't have gotten the invite in as timely as a fashion as the rest. Se..."

{{Log Header
|Date of Scene=2025-11-07
|Cast of Characters=159, 381, 444, 261, 296, 143, 418
|pretty=yes
}}
{{Poses
|Poses=:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' With the twin Mandalorians being held hostage by the other three, the doctor has gathered leadership (minus Xera and the Arkanians, who seem to be missing), to discuss next steps. He'd invited Zetha as well, but she likely wouldn't have gotten the invite in as timely as a fashion as the rest. Sequestered in the hearth room of the inn the doctor is currently staying on, he bids them all to sit, then begins with, "Based off of what Cayde had said about one of their minds being less than a year old, plus everything else we've learned about them so far, it seems reasonable to assume that at least one of them is a clone." He sighs deeply. "This doesn't bode well. Any living bred in isolation like that and then suddenly exposed to reality -must- be unstable. I need to study him," he says, "before any us try to get answers out of him." He looks to Pike, and then Navi, and then to Cayde. "I hope you understand," he says, "and I hope that I can count you all to handle him - if he gets out of control." By now, the doctor would have made his intentions to the Mandalorians known, and very clear. He wanted them to release the supposed clone, into Republic custody. However, their interests might not have aligned. 

:'''{{#var:381|Pike Windu (381)}} has posed:'''     Pike tuns away from the others to take a swig from a flask he's hiding in his great coat. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Meanwhile, the identical barons remain in Jorn, Volken, and Ellari's custody, although Kasseady probably has been given some freedom to roam - but not without supervision. The other likely remains locked away somewhere, but his relentless asking about the Dark Saber hasn't stopped. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha walks into the private room shorly after Soren has begun talking. She looks around at those gathered and then she flushes. "Sorry I'm late. Just got your message a little bit ago, Doctor." Then she looks for an empty seat and takes it. But she stays quiet, for sure she'll catch up or on with anything in no time. 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "I'm not sure whether to hope the Mandalorians agree or disagree," Navi observes, a bit wearily, from her seat beside Cayde. "But if we're needed, we'll be there. We always are." 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     Ellari isn't quite sure if turning the twin and the clone over to Republic custody is a good idea. But ultimately, she'd leave that decision to Jorn. They're his prisoners, after all. It's also up to Jorn whether he eventually lets the clone see the Darksaber or not. However, his incessant demands are quite annoying, so she probably knocked him out once or twice. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde nods in response to Soren, frowning pensively. Of course the Arkanians would choose to conveniently disappear. But since they're nowhere to be found, would that mean they're not in their lab?     [We can search the lab] he suggests. 

:'''{{#var:418|Jorn (418)}} has posed:''' Jorn is conflicted as to what to do. Clones are illegal. So, it would be okay if he just puts two blaster bolts in the temple of the clone. But if they have memory somehow, that serves him in a grander scale. He's conflicted. Rage therapy versus potential honor returning to his name. Yes, Jorn knows the choice that should win, but that doesn't mean it's not hard. "Do they have memory?" he asks openly to anyone that could answer this one. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "Pike," The doctor says solemnly. "I need to know you're focused, and all in." He nods to Zetha, and gestures for her to sit. "I want you to be a part of the study that I conduct on this supposed clone," he says to Zetha, "if the Mandalorians allow it."    "We'll figure out the lab part later. I actually don't know where it is. My guess is its somewhere quite inaccessible to all of us." Kasseady growls at Jorn. "Of course they have memory! He's his own person.... I think." 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     "According to the Jedi boy, about a year's worth." Ellari replies. "If you ask me, the legality of all this is Republic business. So if we hand them over, we shouldn't do it for free. Credits, or maybe a favor..." she muses. "If not, I say we undo Caine's mistakes and simply put a blaster to his head." 

:'''{{#var:381|Pike Windu (381)}} has posed:'''     Pike nod deliberately. "Find the lab, destroy it. Get the clone, kill it." 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     [There must be a record] Cayde insists. If the Arkanians had permission to build their lab, then surely they'd had a permit and authorization to conduct whatever experiments they had planned in Aklyrr. 

:'''{{#var:418|Jorn (418)}} has posed:''' "I was asking the Doctor," Jorn says to Kasseady. That's something he's very sure with. Right now, he looks at Ellari. "I want information. I want what Volken was told. From the source, directly. With recordings. I want the world to hear it from him. That's what I want," Jorn says this all firmly. "Everyone else could take the cred, the clones, the armor, anything else. I just want that information." A look goes toward Kasseady, "I don't have it. Sorry." Oh, that's a bold face lie and a half. 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "His own obsessed-with-the-Darksaber person... whatever the Darksaber is," Navi observes, off of Kasseady's growling. "So he's kind of a one-hit wonder. Like the recording's stuck in one place. Could that be a sign of neural degradation?" 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha just stands at the back of everything and remains silent for a moment. "Me? Help with a study? What good will I be? I'm just a scrapper.." And has absolutely no experience in being suddenly thrown into a whole new world. Nope. Nada. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "What? No," The doctor says when Pike suggests that they should kill the clone. "He's right," he says in response to Kasseady, "he -is- his own person. Even if he's not here to speak for himself currently..." He frowns when Ellari suggests they don't hand them over for free, but leaves the comment unaddressed for now. "You'll get that," he says, "if you just let me conduct my study. Right now, he's not in a frame of mind to tell you anything that you can be absolutely certain didn't come from a place of mental instability." He looks at Navi gravely when she says something about neuro-degradation and sighs, shaking his head. "I don't like it, but you're probably right..." He turns to Zetha. "I want to see how he reacts to you," he says to Zetha. "Clearly, his host had affection for you. But perhaps he himself does not know you. Or maybe he does. Perhaps he'll have the same affection." He turns to Jorn. "I know you have the Dark Saber. I want you to turn the clone over to me, and I also want you to show him the Dark Saber. I want to see how he responds." 

:'''{{#var:381|Pike Windu (381)}} has posed:'''     "The clone is an abomination and must be put down." Pike takes another swig of his liquid courage, not trying to conceal the flask now. 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     "You want that, do you?" Ellari asks Soren, folding her arms. "And what would -we- get in return? What does Jorn get? Surely, you are a man of justice?" She asks, nodding at Jorn's words of demand. "What could you offer, to help us right the wrongs done by the Von'egel twins?" 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde glances between Zetha and Soren as the doctor basically suggests she try to...enamor him. What was the point of all this? How would he help them locate the Arkanians? He was just -born-. Probably doesn't even know where he was born.     Since no one seems to have been paying attention to his suggestion about the lab permits, he turns and starts to head toward the marshal's and other administrative offices. Had to be -something- there, right? Aklyrr isn't -that- big. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha blinks while biting the inside of her lip and looking away. "I highly doubt it was actual affection or attraction being shown towards me..." She offers softly, perhaps so only Soren could hear her. Though when Pike chimes in with his opinions on the clone she looks over. "That's a horrible thing to say! And cruel! How can you so casually say that someone deserves to die like that...." She then notices how Cayde begins to leave. "Cayde? Where are you off to?" 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "If the degradation persists, he may not be his own person much longer," Navi adds. "The laws regarding cloning and clones are very clear... but we /are/ rather far from Coruscant, and this situation is unusual. The clone may somehow be of help to us in righting a greater wrong, though I'm not yet sure how. I'm also unsure trying to pair the clone off with Miss Zetha is ethical or prudent. I wouldn't want it done to me, were I in her shoes." She looks up at Zetha's question to Cayde. "That's a good question, Cayde... where /are/ you off to?" she asks the Padawan's back. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' The doctor shakes his head at Pike. "I won't allow it. We can't just decide to end his life before we've even assessed his individuality," he says. "He's not a droid." His brows furrow when Ellari asks him what he could offer. "And you're saying I should just take your word for what justice looks like? I'd be more willing, perhaps, if you let me stand witness to his trial. Jorn will get his answers, and if I can complete my study, assessment, and therapy, he'll get good ones. Is that not enough?" "Maybe not," the doctor says to Zetha, "but out of all of us, you stand the best chance of getting through to him. He might not be the one we're looking for, but there's no way he doesn't know how to get in contact with him. He's far too precious an asset for the baron to have just cut him off entirely." But then Cayde is running off and Zetha as well as Navi aren't the only ones to notice. Thaarin gets up to follow him. "I'm going to help him," he announces. "Good luck to anyone else who would like to accompany me... it's not a task for the faint of heart." Cayde will find himself wandering towards the little building the mayor of Kublop had given the leadership of Aklyrr Bend. It's sort of like an overflow office - full of paperwork and other miscellaneous documents that weren't needed to operate the colony on a daily basis, plus all the resources necessary for reporting, as the comm center in Aklyrr Bend is still under construction. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde actually stops and turns around momentarily when Zetha and Navi ask him where he's going. [Find records of lab permits] he explains. [Thank you] he nods to Thaarin. Then he turns around and again continues toward the offices. He starts with one of the workstations, looking for information about any authorizations pertaining to the lab. Something had to have its location. Really, Aklyrr wasn't big. 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     Ellari doesn't say any more. She wants more than just -answers-...but she doubts the doctor will agree. So she just shrugs and glances over toward Jorn. this was his decision, anyway. 

:'''{{#var:418|Jorn (418)}} has posed:''' "I need what I need soon. The sooner the better. Time is not a luxury I can afford. Nor is it one I can spare. How soon can I get that information?" Jorn asks plainly. He can't stay around, or wait, for intense therapy. That could take months. He has hours, maybe days. Other than that, Jorn doesn't care what happens. Honestly, he believes a long walk off of a short plank into very large grinder would be his preference. However, he does not care after the information. They need to stand justice. How that justice comes is not his decision. 

:'''{{#var:381|Pike Windu (381)}} has posed:'''     Pike rises to his feet, the drunkeness melting away as he regains some remembered dignity. "I am a Jedi Master. The clone is of the Dark Side. It WILL...be exterminated." 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha grimaces a little and then shakes her head. "How can you be so certain the clone is of the Dark Side... and further... have you even been able to determine if he's...what do you call it... Force Sensitive? I read about that in a book. You're condemning before giving a chance... aren't you Jedi supposed to be about trying to save someone from the Dark Side and not just...eradicating existence?" It's cruel. To Zetha anyway. And she shakes her head again before looking between the Doctor and Jorn. "Well when do I get to meet this person and we can figure out if there's a glint of recognition in his eyes when he sees me? Maybe -that- will determine he's worth at least a chance and not a death warrant." 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "It's not that simple, Zetha. I really wish it were," Navi says. "Even if the Dark Side weren't a factor, clones and cloning are illegal because of the potential for unethical treatment of clones, even by people with the best of intentions who have never raised a hand in anger against a clone, and never would. Clones are prone to neural degradation... it's like dementia, only faster and more catastrophic. And even clones who don't have the worst cases of it are subject to it in some ways. It's just unethical to create a sentient being, only for it to suffer and eventually die in such a manner." 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' When Cayde and Thaarin arrive at the overflow office, they'll find things are an utter mess. There's datapads strewn everywhere, and even random pieces of flimsiplast lying on the ground here and there. The consoles are up and running at least, but finding anything in here is going to be... somewhat difficult. The doctor seems exasperated when Pike says the clone is of the Dark Side. "How do you even know that?" he says, his frown deepening. "You haven't even seen him for yourself. Zetha's right," he says. "You should be ashamed of yourself." He then turns to Jorn. "I can't guarantee timeline," he says, "and I know what you're thinking - it's going to take months. And I can assure you right now, that if you cooperate fully, it won't." He then looks to Zetha. "We should go now," he says, and then his gaze flicks to Jorn, "as long as the Mandalorians are willing to let me conduct my work as I see fit." He shakes his head at Navi. "They're only prone to neural degradation because no one ever was ever able to create a clone, successfully. All records of genetic experimentation of this kind resulted in the test subjects dying within days of their birth. This supposed clone... is clearly older than that. What kind of shape he's in mentally, I don't know. We're in uncharted waters, Navi. This is why I need to study him..." 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "Be careful, doctor. This is an extremely dangerous course of study, especially from a moral and ethical perspective," Navi advises worriedly. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde sighs and starts trying to work one of the terminals, not going for any of the random flimsiplast lying around. 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     "Not months? Then how long?" Ellari asks, folding her arms. "I don't know how much longer it will be before someone -else- shows up here looking for a fight over the Darksaber." 

:'''{{#var:418|Jorn (418)}} has posed:''' "I need a rough timeline. I don't need concrete," but he gestures to Ellari. "Her words hold a lot of wait right now." Jorn just backs up that sentiment right now. 

:'''{{#var:381|Pike Windu (381)}} has posed:'''     Pike scoffs and shakes his head in supreme annoyance. "You're not Jedi. You don't understand." The Master takes another swig and backs down. He mutters to himself, "it will be done." 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha clenches her jaw and shakes her head. "Maybe if you stopped drinking from that flask so much your mind would be clearer to listen to reason and make better decisions. The Jedi aren't judge, jury and executioner all in one as far as I'm concerned. And you aren't the King of Tenoo..." Then she looks at Soren and nods her head before glancing to Jorn and Ellari. "We can probably get you a better timeline after the doctor and I see this person. Will you please oblige us and let us meet them?" 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "I'm just here to make sure history doesn't repeat itself," he says to Navi, "and if I have to be the sacrificial happabore then so be it. But it'll be alright," He says, "I promise." He looks to Jorn and Ellari. "Perhaps four to six weeks. But I just told you, I can't really guarantee a timeline. Zetha's right. Let me see him first, then I can give you a better answer." He sighs when Pike scoffs at him. "Perhaps you ought to go back to the colony and rest," he says, "you seem overwhelmed and aren't in your right mind. Regardless, I can't let you just get rid of this supposed clone. He's not disposable." Thaarin seems surprised when Cayde is immediately able to get into one of the terminals. His lips press into a thin line, "You've been in here before, haven't you? You're not supposed to know the password to the console for long range comms." He frowns. "Wait, you're the one who's been coming in here and surfing the Holonet, aren't you??" He shakes his head. "Cayde... what did I tell you about social etiquette on the holonetworks..." He sighs. Cayde can defend himself, or ignore Thaarin - he'll see that there's an archive of files that are documents recording what was permitted to be brought to and built on Tenoo. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde pouts slightly at Thaarin. [It is....] he pauses. [...it helps me...is...productive.] See?     He sifts through the data, locating the archive. The padawan gestures for Thaarin to come over. [Building permit] he signs, and nods, starting to look for the files pertaining to the labs. 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     "Hmph." Ellari doesn't say much more, simply looking to Jorn again. It was ultimately his decision. 

:'''{{#var:381|Pike Windu (381)}} has posed:'''     "Perhaps I should go back to the colony and burn it down. This whole mission is a waste of time." The Jedi empties his flask and groans in frustration. 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "Maybe I'd better go with you, Master," Navi says, moving to join Pike. "It's a long tram ride back." 

:'''{{#var:418|Jorn (418)}} has posed:''' "Weeks!? Weeks?! I told you I have days, if I'm lucky." Jorn looks at the Doctor for a moment. "If you can't give me results sooner, I'll have to figure out an alternative route. I don't have the luxury of time, remmeber?" Jorn sounds very annoyed like the doctor didn't really listen to him at all. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha bites her tongue, figuratively, when it comes to responding to Pike. Though she has words in her head for him but they will remain there. She then looks between Jorn and Ellari. "For the love of everything... will you please just let us see this person so we can figure out a proper timeline? Us standing around here after having asked a few times and you're just delaying it...isn't really helping anything." Her hands are on her hips now, like she's trying to look like she means business. Or something. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Thaarin arches a brow at Cayde. "Is it? Certainly doesn't seem like it," he mutters. But then they're moving onto more important matters. He helps Cayde scroll the documents, but all they'll find is a permit for them to occupy a small mailing room in Kublop Springs, and a temporary laboratory at colony site. The temporary laboratory, Cayde will have seen already, it's attached to the infirmary, and is mostly just storage for things like lab equipment... The doctor shakes his head. "And you're drunk," He says to Pike, shaking his head. "You can accompany him if you like Navi, but I was really hoping you could join us for the assessment of the clone. Cayde's gone off with Thaarin, and we could use a hand in the calming department." "And what is that alternative route?" the doctor argues. "You're not going to get reliable answers from him, even if you chop off all his limbs. He can't give you answers regarding people and places he barely remembers, nor do I think he possesses much self awareness. And then what if you do, and he still doesn't cooperate? What's your game plan, then? Dead men tell no tales." 

:'''{{#var:418|Jorn (418)}} has posed:''' "A computer can get hacked. Jedi can crack the mind. I'm sure something can be done to bring up memory," he states looking at the Doctor as Jorn knows torture is not the route to go. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde frowns at that 'temporary' lab space apparently only for storage. Is that the truth? Perhaps they should search it. He looks to Thaarin. [Storage...no...we should check] he signs. And then check the 'mailing' room. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha Rumir sighs and looks over to Soren for a moment before back to the Mandalorians. "I know my way around metal and stuff. I'll go find this person myself and drag them off of this ship so we can do our thing with talking to them and you can go about your merry. If you need any information from them we can always send it to you afterwards. Since you really seem keen to get off this planet in a hurry. Not that I blame you. Tenoo can be -boring- but.." She shrugs. "I think we've been more than patient trying to come to agreeable terms and pushing back isn't getting you anything any sooner than you want it." 

:'''{{#var:381|Pike Windu (381)}} has posed:'''     The local rotgut starts to take effect. Pike wanders off, blathering about his mission and planets being the farthest from a bright center of the universe. 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' Navi looks after Pike. "Maybe I'd better at least accompany him to the tram station. I can make myself available if you need me, Doctor, Zetha," she volunteers. "But please speak up." 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "If you want access to the Jedi's help," the doctor says, "you're going to have to do things the Republic's way. And if you don't want to do that, then sorry, you're out of the luck." He turns and heads out of the hearth room, ushering Zetha out as well if she lets him. Once they're out of earshot, he says to her, "Look, I agree with you. But next time, try not to be so obvious about our intentions. We don't want them actively trying to prevent us from finding the clone and talking to him - you know what Mandalorian forms of dissuasion look like." "I'll reach out later," he says to Navi, "looks like we're just going to have to do this -without- the Mandalorian's permission. Light help us...we're going to need all the help we can get. But for now, make sure Pike gets back to the colony safely." "I've spoken to Vons about the mailing room already," the tall blue alien says to Cayde, "he's searched it and there's nothing of interest there anymore. We'd best head back to the colony site and search for any other clues in the old storage facility." He then starts to make his way back towards the tram station, where Navi and Pike are also likely heading 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde nods and follows him out, wondering where else the Arkanians could have gone. There weren't many other habitable places on this planet. And if they left the planet, there had to be a log at the port. But first things first... 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha does allow herself to be ushered away and after listening to Soren, she protests a little. "I was only reiterating what you were saying..." She offers and then makes a face. "Okay maybe threatening to find this clone and haul him away wasn't the /best/ thing I've said...but..." She stops herself and takes a breath. "You're right. Sorry. I was just getting really frustrated with them and with what Pike was saying...and I'm still trying to figure out how to compartmentalize emotions. I'll do better." There's a pause. "So...what now?" 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' Navi pauses to hug Zetha supportively. "For starters, there's this. Then there's finding out what those sneaky Arkanians are up to. The Vergence has got to be the key to their breakthroughs. There's no way they're far from it. That's where we need to focus our search," she suggests. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "I understand," the doctor says, "and we're on the same page about taking matters into our own hands. The Mandalorians just can't know when," he says, "it's too late to make sure they don't know we plan to at all. But it's alright - we'll figure it out, don't worry." the doctor reassures her, patting her shoulder firmly but gently. "I'm going to head back to the colony, now. I've got to talk to Thaarin and Vons about finding a way to that clone, without the Mandalorians knowing." Then he glances over at Navi. "She's right, the vergence is key to their breakthroughs. If the lab is anywhere, it's probably somewhere in the Gorge or near it. I know that doesn't narrow our search much, and it's risky - the Gorge is dangerous, uncharted, and difficult to navigate." "In the meantime, try asking around for 'Jasper.' Maybe he'll catch wind of it and come looking for you. But be careful, don't make yourself available at night, or in places where you'd be alone and cornered. If you can't stay at home because of the renovations, I'm sure Crane will be more than happy to share a bed with you at the convent." Then he starts for tram station. "I'll see you soon," He says to Zetha, "and as always, don't be afraid to reach out if you need anything." 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "I don't think we're going to get anywhere with the Mandalorians without bargaining in good faith, and any attempt to do otherwise won't end well for us. Or them. But especially us," Navi contributes. "So I won't be part of any effort that isn't about dealing with them in good faith. Besides, do you really want to be the one to tell Volk that we're taking the clone from them? I sure as frell don't. And won't." 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha returns the hug from Navi and then glances to Soren again. "Alright. I'll do better." Then he mentions she should poke around about 'Jasper', maybe bring him out of hiding. She tries not to smile at that and just nods her head. "I'm between the convent and the junkyard...but it works out alright. I think I'll go see if Crane is free. Be safe, both of you." And then she turns to head towards the convent. 
}}

Spying in Aklyrr

2025-12-08T00:05:08Z

Andromeda:

{{Log Header
|Date of Scene=2025-11-05
|Cast of Characters=159, 261
|pretty=yes
|Location=Aklyrr Bend - Tenoo - Outer Rim
}}
{{Poses
|Poses=:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' It's a quiet evening in Aklyrr Bend, it's an hour after a sunset, and most of the colonists have retired to their temporary hab suites to settle down for the night. However, for such night owls like a particular Arsok Vons, the work day has just begun - he does his best work when it's not light out. And tonight, his objective is spy on the self designated coin purse of the colony - Xera Graf, along with all her lackeys. Navi isn't one of them (yet??), but certainly her personal aide, Avi, qualifies. At the present moment, the girl had lingered long after the dinner crowd at the dining hall had dissipated, and gone into the kitchen for a reason that the Zeltron man can only guess at, for the time being. For now, he lurks outside the kitchen, peering in through a skylight on the roof... 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' Navi walks into the mess tent just in time to witness Avi slipping into the kitchen area of the dining hall. She doesn't immediately think anything of it, being tired and just in from working leads on a recent case. "Guess I missed dinner again... is there anything left?" she asks the counter girls. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "Yes," the Pa'lowick woman behind the dinner counter says, "but they put it all away already, so you'll have to raid the fridge in the back yourself. You're welcome to use the facilities to reheat anything," she says, "but clean up after yourself! I'm calling it a night..." And she disappears out the back. If Navi decides to wander into the kitchen, she'll then see Avi there, peering into the pantry spaces. 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "Have a good night," Navi replies to the woman, then slips into the kitchen. Just in time to witness Avi looking into the pantry spaces. Hmm... 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Her behavior is definitely... odd. She appears to be looking for something, she's opening every single cabinet in the kitchen. But she doesn't take anything out, which Navi might find peculiar. If she's searching for something, she's certainly not going about it in a very efficient manner. Navi will also notice she appears visibly distraught. Like, on the verge of tears. But when Navi comes in, she composes herself, and wipes her eyes. "I don't suppose you came to spy on me, in an attempt to blackmail," she says haughtily, smoothing her dress. 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "I'm working for The Law, Avi... I don't deal in blackmail," Navi retorts flatly. "But I /am/ wondering just what you're looking for in all those cabinets. And why you need to find it so badly." 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "None of your damn business!" she shrieks, suddenly losing her composure. "You stay out of my way," she hisses, pointing accusatorily at the young Sephi. Then she flees the kitchen, running as fast as she can for Xera's oversized penthouse on the other side of the colony. Once she's out of sight and hearing range, Vons drops down from the roof and comes into the kitchen, examining the cupboards Avi had opened. "We've gotta go after her," he tells Navi. "You're the only one Xera wouldn't be suspicious of showing up on her front doorstep," he says with a defeated sigh. 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "I'll do that. You might want to see what you can find in here. She was pawing through there looking like she was about to cry fit to fill The Gorge. And I have a feeling whatever it is, it's important to /somebody/. Probably Xera," Navi replies. "And knowing Avi, she'll run straight to Xera's hab." She hurries out of the kitchen, toward Xera's pent-hab, slowing her pace to a brisk walk. As she walks, she hastily puts her clothes and hair in better order. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "No!" Vons says, hurrying after her, "I'm not letting you go there alone," he says. "Besides, I don't think there's anything left to investigate in the kitchen. I watched her come in, open every cabinet like she had a search warrant but take nothing out. No idea why." "I'll find an angle to watch you from, discreetly. Just be careful, and see what you can find out," he says. Once they approach Xera's abode, he slows his pace and backs off a little, looking for a window, or another skylight he can peer in through. 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "Maybe, maybe not. Were it me, I'd want to be sure. Anyway, Xera won't hurt me. She may be money-obsessed, but she's not stupid enough to harm an officer of The Law. Unless it was Cayde, maybe, but he did kinda-sorta threaten her. And half the colony seems to have ill feelings toward Cayde, anyway, so it's not like she's a unique case," Navi replies. She doesn't bring up any feelings Xera may have for her; she doesn't know how Vons would react to that kind of news. She approaches the pent-hab's main door and presses the doorchime. "It'd be just my luck that she's asleep. And Avi sure as frell won't answer it," she murmurs. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "You never know," Vons says as he climbs onto the roof of Xera's penthouse. "Sometimes you think you know people..." The doorchime goes off, but no one answers. Maybe Xera's asleep, maybe she's not. It doesn't seem like it, the lights are all on. Vons finds a ventilation shaft and peers in, then shakes his head. He frowns, suspicious. "Something tells me you need to get in there, like right now," he says. "There's a reason why she's not answering, and we need to know." He pulls out a small knife and pops the grill off the ventilation shaft, then motions for Navi to come up to where he is and crawl into the vent... 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' Navi clambers up onto the roof, aided by years of acrobatics training from her days in the Order. She looks at the shaft with misgivings. "That is /way/ too close... and there's no way whoever's in there won't hear me coming," she murmurs, trying to slide her shoulders into the gap and finding them too wide. "Frell... just barely..." she murmurs angrily. Scowling and blushing faintly, she hastily wriggles out of her clothes and boots. Pinning her co-Marshal's badge to her undershirt, she takes her lightsaber and clambers into the shaft... 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "Come on," Vons urges in a whisper, "you crawled through smaller... right?" Well, they're just both undressing now, apparently Vons had every intention of getting in as well. He doesn't seem to have any problem with it - perhaps the extent to which he -doesn't- mind is more than Navi might like. At least he doesn't comment. The inside of the ventilation shaft is unpleasantly warm. Clearly, they're the shafts for the private sauna in Xera's quarters, and gauging by the temperature and the humidity inside of it, she had used it today at least a few hours prior. Now, not only will Navi and Vons be crawling through a tiny ventilation shaft while in their underwear but they'll have to do it while sweaty and covered in condensation. Oh, well, at least she'll be able to hear Xera and Avi's voices coming from somewhere farther down shaft... 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' Navi clambers out of the ventilation shaft and drops into the sauna chamber, her underwear, socks, and skin now damp with condensation from the shaft. She puts a finger to her lips as she moves to assist Vons out of the shaft. Going by the sound of their voices, Avi and Xera are close by, and the walls are quite thin... 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Vons follows her, and climbs out of the shaft silently, nodding when she puts a finger to her lips. Once Xera and Avi's voices can be heard, he presses himself against the wall. The voices are nearby, but their words are too muffled in order for Navi or Vons to be able to understand what they're saying. It sounds like some kind of argument, though, and Avi sounds like she's crying. Navi's gonna have to get nearer... 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' Navi carefully opens the door to the sauna and sneaks out, looking around warily for the Graf heiress and her mean-mouthed assistant. The door hinges groan softly as she opens it, causing her to freeze. Fortunately for her (and Vons!) it must not have been loud enough to get anyone's attention. She creeps closer to the sound of voices... 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Vons follows her out of the sauna, but doesn't follow Navi, instead he motions to her that he's going to keep watch in the hallway, to make sure Xera's protocol droids don't get any ideas about cleaning the hallway or the sauna and discover them intruding... Avi and Xera are in the bedroom, and Navi will catch the tail end of whatever argument they're having. Avi is saying she doesn't want to do something, and Xera's asking her if she'd like to go home, to which Avi responds in the negative. Then, all of a sudden, Avi will burst out of the bedroom, her make up a streaked mess, tears marring her youthful countenance. She seems too distraught to think much about Navi being in Xera's quarters, instead, she just shoves past her. Hopefully Vons has found a place to hide. Xera seems shocked and dismayed to find that Navi's here. Weirdly, she doesn't scold her. "... Navi? What are you doing here? Did you need something?" 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "I... saw Avi run this way after she ran out of the kitchen area in the dining hall," Navi replies, blushing faintly. "Something was clearly wrong, but when I knocked, there was no answer. So I made my way in. I thought there might be an emergency." 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "There's nothing wrong," Xera immediately replies to Navi. "She's fine. I'm fine. There's no emergency. She just misses her family, that's all." But Navi maybe inclined to use the Force to assess whether she's telling the truth or not. 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "I can't blame her for missing her family, but... are you sure nothing's wrong?" Navi asks softly, quietly straightening her undershirt and hitching up her briefs. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "Nothing's wrong," Xera says, but it will be clear to Navi that Xera knows she's on thin ice. She averts her gaze, and turns away. "Now, you should probably get dressed and go back to your hab suite. It's late." But Xera knows that Navi isn't stupid, and that her lying is for naught. 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' Inwardly cursing Vons for not staying to search the kitchen, Navi catches Xera's upper arm as she turns away. She's gentle about it, and Xera could pull away if she wished, but it should get her attention. "Xera, you know I care about you," she says softly. "If you're in trouble, I want to help you." 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "I'm not in trouble," Xera says, removing Navi's hand gently from her upper arm. There's a quiet pause. "Listen, Navi. I need a favor. Don't tell anyone about what you saw tonight. Don't investigate, don't be concerned for me, I'm being sincere when I say that I'm not in trouble." "Do this, and you can visit me anytime you like." 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' Navi looks at Xera for a long, long moment. "All right," she says at last. "I don't think I can /ever/ stop being concerned for you... but as for tonight? I can do that much. It's a deal." << But I didn't say /you/ wouldn't, Vons... or anyone else you care to pull into this. I only meant me, >> she says telepathically to the detective. << Better get out before she realizes you're here. There's no way she's going to tell me anything else anyway. >> 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Xera actually smiles at Navi. Although whether it's genuine or not will remain a mystery for now. "Thank you," she says, "I'm glad we could come to this agreement." She takes a robe hanging on a hook nearby and puts it around Navi's shoulders. "There. Now you really should get back. You'll catch a cold if go back any later - it's freezing now, no telling how cold it will be later." A slight breeze through comes in through a window that hadn't been open before, and Navi may realize that Vons had taken her advice quickly and gotten out. 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "Thank you," Navi says softly, slipping her arms into the sleeves of the robe and drawing it properly shut, tying the belt. "Have a good night, Xera... and if you need help, please call on me." She turns toward the front door of the pent-hab. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "You too," she says softly, "And don't forget your promise to me. No one can know about this, ever." Then she sees Navi to the door and watches as the doors close behind her. 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' Once the doors are closed behind her, Navi hastily but quietly returns to retrieve her clothes and effects from the roof, then hastily returns to her hab shelter to dress and hang up the borrowed robe. Then she slips out again to find Vons. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' When Navi goes to retrieve her clothes, she'll find that Vons are still there. Maybe she'll be kind enough to get them for him. Eventually, she'll find he's back in his quarters, dressed, but clearly not about to rest or sleep. There's an energy drink in his hand. 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "Brought your stuff back," Navi says when Vons opens the door for her, handing him a small carryall bag. "Going back to the kitchen? I'd guess that whatever Avi was looking for is still there, if it was ever there." 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "Thanks," Vons says, but his mind is clearly elsewhere. "I don't think she was looking for anything, Navi. But what she was doing there, I'm not sure. Maybe I'm wrong, though. I'll know if she comes back later to look, again." 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "It sure /looked/ like she was looking for something, what with opening all those cabinets, but never taking anything out... and she was so clearly upset about it, too. Xera wanted her to do something, and Avi didn't want to do it. I just wish I could've heard what it was. I've dealt with Xera enough to know that I never was going to find out from her, so I gave her what she wanted... it effectively lost me nothing," Navi observes. "I don't like Avi, but I can't help being concerned that she may be in trouble." 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "Don't worry," Vons says, "I'll be your eyes. And if you can visit her anytime you want now, that'll open up more opportunities for you to find out what's really going on." 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "I'll need eyes. And be careful. I don't know what's going on with her, but it could be dangerous. There's already been one murder in this colony," Navi cautions Vons. "The one good thing about it is that it seems to have been a one-off incident from an old grudge." 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Vons gives her an affectionate look. "I'll be careful enough," he says. "Don't worry about me." "But I wouldn't hang your hat up yet. I have a feeling there's more than just one bad Firehawk egg around here..." 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "Oh, don't worry about that... I doubt I'll be able to hang up the badge until I'm on that freedom boat back to the Core," Navi replies. "Nothing ever stays quiet for long... if it ever /gets/ quiet." 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Vons hugs her, patting her back gently. "It'll settle eventually," he says. "Even if eventually is a really, really long time from now." "You should probably go and get some rest. Besides, I've got a lot of work to do tonight..." 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "I doubt I'll be here to see it. It'll probably happen about the time someone figures out what an Aklyrr is," Navi observes wryly. "Don't wear yourself too thin, Vons. I don't want you getting sick or getting too tired to miss the danger signs. For now, I'll see you in the morning." She probably surprises him when she hugs him tightly before returning to her hab. 
}}

Spying in Aklyrr

2025-12-08T00:04:54Z

Andromeda: Created page with "{{Log Header |Date of Scene=2025-11-05 |Cast of Characters=159, 261 |pretty=yes }} {{Poses |Poses=:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' It's a quiet evening in Aklyrr Bend, it's an hour after a sunset, and most of the colonists have retired to their temporary hab suites to settle down for the night. However, for such night owls like a particular Arsok Vons, the work day has just begun - he does his best work when it's not light out. And tonight..."

{{Log Header
|Date of Scene=2025-11-05
|Cast of Characters=159, 261
|pretty=yes
}}
{{Poses
|Poses=:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' It's a quiet evening in Aklyrr Bend, it's an hour after a sunset, and most of the colonists have retired to their temporary hab suites to settle down for the night. However, for such night owls like a particular Arsok Vons, the work day has just begun - he does his best work when it's not light out. And tonight, his objective is spy on the self designated coin purse of the colony - Xera Graf, along with all her lackeys. Navi isn't one of them (yet??), but certainly her personal aide, Avi, qualifies. At the present moment, the girl had lingered long after the dinner crowd at the dining hall had dissipated, and gone into the kitchen for a reason that the Zeltron man can only guess at, for the time being. For now, he lurks outside the kitchen, peering in through a skylight on the roof... 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' Navi walks into the mess tent just in time to witness Avi slipping into the kitchen area of the dining hall. She doesn't immediately think anything of it, being tired and just in from working leads on a recent case. "Guess I missed dinner again... is there anything left?" she asks the counter girls. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "Yes," the Pa'lowick woman behind the dinner counter says, "but they put it all away already, so you'll have to raid the fridge in the back yourself. You're welcome to use the facilities to reheat anything," she says, "but clean up after yourself! I'm calling it a night..." And she disappears out the back. If Navi decides to wander into the kitchen, she'll then see Avi there, peering into the pantry spaces. 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "Have a good night," Navi replies to the woman, then slips into the kitchen. Just in time to witness Avi looking into the pantry spaces. Hmm... 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Her behavior is definitely... odd. She appears to be looking for something, she's opening every single cabinet in the kitchen. But she doesn't take anything out, which Navi might find peculiar. If she's searching for something, she's certainly not going about it in a very efficient manner. Navi will also notice she appears visibly distraught. Like, on the verge of tears. But when Navi comes in, she composes herself, and wipes her eyes. "I don't suppose you came to spy on me, in an attempt to blackmail," she says haughtily, smoothing her dress. 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "I'm working for The Law, Avi... I don't deal in blackmail," Navi retorts flatly. "But I /am/ wondering just what you're looking for in all those cabinets. And why you need to find it so badly." 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "None of your damn business!" she shrieks, suddenly losing her composure. "You stay out of my way," she hisses, pointing accusatorily at the young Sephi. Then she flees the kitchen, running as fast as she can for Xera's oversized penthouse on the other side of the colony. Once she's out of sight and hearing range, Vons drops down from the roof and comes into the kitchen, examining the cupboards Avi had opened. "We've gotta go after her," he tells Navi. "You're the only one Xera wouldn't be suspicious of showing up on her front doorstep," he says with a defeated sigh. 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "I'll do that. You might want to see what you can find in here. She was pawing through there looking like she was about to cry fit to fill The Gorge. And I have a feeling whatever it is, it's important to /somebody/. Probably Xera," Navi replies. "And knowing Avi, she'll run straight to Xera's hab." She hurries out of the kitchen, toward Xera's pent-hab, slowing her pace to a brisk walk. As she walks, she hastily puts her clothes and hair in better order. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "No!" Vons says, hurrying after her, "I'm not letting you go there alone," he says. "Besides, I don't think there's anything left to investigate in the kitchen. I watched her come in, open every cabinet like she had a search warrant but take nothing out. No idea why." "I'll find an angle to watch you from, discreetly. Just be careful, and see what you can find out," he says. Once they approach Xera's abode, he slows his pace and backs off a little, looking for a window, or another skylight he can peer in through. 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "Maybe, maybe not. Were it me, I'd want to be sure. Anyway, Xera won't hurt me. She may be money-obsessed, but she's not stupid enough to harm an officer of The Law. Unless it was Cayde, maybe, but he did kinda-sorta threaten her. And half the colony seems to have ill feelings toward Cayde, anyway, so it's not like she's a unique case," Navi replies. She doesn't bring up any feelings Xera may have for her; she doesn't know how Vons would react to that kind of news. She approaches the pent-hab's main door and presses the doorchime. "It'd be just my luck that she's asleep. And Avi sure as frell won't answer it," she murmurs. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "You never know," Vons says as he climbs onto the roof of Xera's penthouse. "Sometimes you think you know people..." The doorchime goes off, but no one answers. Maybe Xera's asleep, maybe she's not. It doesn't seem like it, the lights are all on. Vons finds a ventilation shaft and peers in, then shakes his head. He frowns, suspicious. "Something tells me you need to get in there, like right now," he says. "There's a reason why she's not answering, and we need to know." He pulls out a small knife and pops the grill off the ventilation shaft, then motions for Navi to come up to where he is and crawl into the vent... 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' Navi clambers up onto the roof, aided by years of acrobatics training from her days in the Order. She looks at the shaft with misgivings. "That is /way/ too close... and there's no way whoever's in there won't hear me coming," she murmurs, trying to slide her shoulders into the gap and finding them too wide. "Frell... just barely..." she murmurs angrily. Scowling and blushing faintly, she hastily wriggles out of her clothes and boots. Pinning her co-Marshal's badge to her undershirt, she takes her lightsaber and clambers into the shaft... 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "Come on," Vons urges in a whisper, "you crawled through smaller... right?" Well, they're just both undressing now, apparently Vons had every intention of getting in as well. He doesn't seem to have any problem with it - perhaps the extent to which he -doesn't- mind is more than Navi might like. At least he doesn't comment. The inside of the ventilation shaft is unpleasantly warm. Clearly, they're the shafts for the private sauna in Xera's quarters, and gauging by the temperature and the humidity inside of it, she had used it today at least a few hours prior. Now, not only will Navi and Vons be crawling through a tiny ventilation shaft while in their underwear but they'll have to do it while sweaty and covered in condensation. Oh, well, at least she'll be able to hear Xera and Avi's voices coming from somewhere farther down shaft... 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' Navi clambers out of the ventilation shaft and drops into the sauna chamber, her underwear, socks, and skin now damp with condensation from the shaft. She puts a finger to her lips as she moves to assist Vons out of the shaft. Going by the sound of their voices, Avi and Xera are close by, and the walls are quite thin... 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Vons follows her, and climbs out of the shaft silently, nodding when she puts a finger to her lips. Once Xera and Avi's voices can be heard, he presses himself against the wall. The voices are nearby, but their words are too muffled in order for Navi or Vons to be able to understand what they're saying. It sounds like some kind of argument, though, and Avi sounds like she's crying. Navi's gonna have to get nearer... 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' Navi carefully opens the door to the sauna and sneaks out, looking around warily for the Graf heiress and her mean-mouthed assistant. The door hinges groan softly as she opens it, causing her to freeze. Fortunately for her (and Vons!) it must not have been loud enough to get anyone's attention. She creeps closer to the sound of voices... 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Vons follows her out of the sauna, but doesn't follow Navi, instead he motions to her that he's going to keep watch in the hallway, to make sure Xera's protocol droids don't get any ideas about cleaning the hallway or the sauna and discover them intruding... Avi and Xera are in the bedroom, and Navi will catch the tail end of whatever argument they're having. Avi is saying she doesn't want to do something, and Xera's asking her if she'd like to go home, to which Avi responds in the negative. Then, all of a sudden, Avi will burst out of the bedroom, her make up a streaked mess, tears marring her youthful countenance. She seems too distraught to think much about Navi being in Xera's quarters, instead, she just shoves past her. Hopefully Vons has found a place to hide. Xera seems shocked and dismayed to find that Navi's here. Weirdly, she doesn't scold her. "... Navi? What are you doing here? Did you need something?" 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "I... saw Avi run this way after she ran out of the kitchen area in the dining hall," Navi replies, blushing faintly. "Something was clearly wrong, but when I knocked, there was no answer. So I made my way in. I thought there might be an emergency." 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "There's nothing wrong," Xera immediately replies to Navi. "She's fine. I'm fine. There's no emergency. She just misses her family, that's all." But Navi maybe inclined to use the Force to assess whether she's telling the truth or not. 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "I can't blame her for missing her family, but... are you sure nothing's wrong?" Navi asks softly, quietly straightening her undershirt and hitching up her briefs. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "Nothing's wrong," Xera says, but it will be clear to Navi that Xera knows she's on thin ice. She averts her gaze, and turns away. "Now, you should probably get dressed and go back to your hab suite. It's late." But Xera knows that Navi isn't stupid, and that her lying is for naught. 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' Inwardly cursing Vons for not staying to search the kitchen, Navi catches Xera's upper arm as she turns away. She's gentle about it, and Xera could pull away if she wished, but it should get her attention. "Xera, you know I care about you," she says softly. "If you're in trouble, I want to help you." 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "I'm not in trouble," Xera says, removing Navi's hand gently from her upper arm. There's a quiet pause. "Listen, Navi. I need a favor. Don't tell anyone about what you saw tonight. Don't investigate, don't be concerned for me, I'm being sincere when I say that I'm not in trouble." "Do this, and you can visit me anytime you like." 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' Navi looks at Xera for a long, long moment. "All right," she says at last. "I don't think I can /ever/ stop being concerned for you... but as for tonight? I can do that much. It's a deal." << But I didn't say /you/ wouldn't, Vons... or anyone else you care to pull into this. I only meant me, >> she says telepathically to the detective. << Better get out before she realizes you're here. There's no way she's going to tell me anything else anyway. >> 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Xera actually smiles at Navi. Although whether it's genuine or not will remain a mystery for now. "Thank you," she says, "I'm glad we could come to this agreement." She takes a robe hanging on a hook nearby and puts it around Navi's shoulders. "There. Now you really should get back. You'll catch a cold if go back any later - it's freezing now, no telling how cold it will be later." A slight breeze through comes in through a window that hadn't been open before, and Navi may realize that Vons had taken her advice quickly and gotten out. 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "Thank you," Navi says softly, slipping her arms into the sleeves of the robe and drawing it properly shut, tying the belt. "Have a good night, Xera... and if you need help, please call on me." She turns toward the front door of the pent-hab. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "You too," she says softly, "And don't forget your promise to me. No one can know about this, ever." Then she sees Navi to the door and watches as the doors close behind her. 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' Once the doors are closed behind her, Navi hastily but quietly returns to retrieve her clothes and effects from the roof, then hastily returns to her hab shelter to dress and hang up the borrowed robe. Then she slips out again to find Vons. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' When Navi goes to retrieve her clothes, she'll find that Vons are still there. Maybe she'll be kind enough to get them for him. Eventually, she'll find he's back in his quarters, dressed, but clearly not about to rest or sleep. There's an energy drink in his hand. 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "Brought your stuff back," Navi says when Vons opens the door for her, handing him a small carryall bag. "Going back to the kitchen? I'd guess that whatever Avi was looking for is still there, if it was ever there." 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "Thanks," Vons says, but his mind is clearly elsewhere. "I don't think she was looking for anything, Navi. But what she was doing there, I'm not sure. Maybe I'm wrong, though. I'll know if she comes back later to look, again." 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "It sure /looked/ like she was looking for something, what with opening all those cabinets, but never taking anything out... and she was so clearly upset about it, too. Xera wanted her to do something, and Avi didn't want to do it. I just wish I could've heard what it was. I've dealt with Xera enough to know that I never was going to find out from her, so I gave her what she wanted... it effectively lost me nothing," Navi observes. "I don't like Avi, but I can't help being concerned that she may be in trouble." 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "Don't worry," Vons says, "I'll be your eyes. And if you can visit her anytime you want now, that'll open up more opportunities for you to find out what's really going on." 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "I'll need eyes. And be careful. I don't know what's going on with her, but it could be dangerous. There's already been one murder in this colony," Navi cautions Vons. "The one good thing about it is that it seems to have been a one-off incident from an old grudge." 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Vons gives her an affectionate look. "I'll be careful enough," he says. "Don't worry about me." "But I wouldn't hang your hat up yet. I have a feeling there's more than just one bad Firehawk egg around here..." 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "Oh, don't worry about that... I doubt I'll be able to hang up the badge until I'm on that freedom boat back to the Core," Navi replies. "Nothing ever stays quiet for long... if it ever /gets/ quiet." 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Vons hugs her, patting her back gently. "It'll settle eventually," he says. "Even if eventually is a really, really long time from now." "You should probably go and get some rest. Besides, I've got a lot of work to do tonight..." 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "I doubt I'll be here to see it. It'll probably happen about the time someone figures out what an Aklyrr is," Navi observes wryly. "Don't wear yourself too thin, Vons. I don't want you getting sick or getting too tired to miss the danger signs. For now, I'll see you in the morning." She probably surprises him when she hugs him tightly before returning to her hab. 
}}

The Kids Are Fighting

2025-11-11T18:36:10Z

Andromeda:

{{Log Header
|Date of Scene=2025-11-04
|Synopsis=Soren attempts to help conflict resolve.
|Cast of Characters=159, 261, 143, 444
|pretty=yes
|Location=Kublop Springs - Tenoo - Outer Rim
}}
{{Poses
|Poses=:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Evening's falling in Kublop, and Zetha, Navi, and Cayde would have all received text transmissions from the doctor to meet him at the local inn just down the street from the convent. None of them will likely be surprised by this message, as the doctor had mentioned to them earlier that he'd wanted to have a talk with all of them... privately. 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "Lovely..." Navi murmurs, putting away her comlink as she rises and turns toward the inn. "Even odds this is just going to be an hour of my life I'm never getting back." 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde has a feeling he knows what this is about, and he doesn't particularly like the idea of thinking about it again. But, it's probably good for him. So he sighs and heads to the inn anyway. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha also heads to the inn, and since she had been at the convent anyway, it's not going to take her long to arrive. She is all smiles. Like, having a good day smile. No, really. She even maybe seems a bit lighter on her feet and in her shoulders - where all the stress sits. So while Navi and Cayde are dreading the event, she can't seem to find fault in it. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' The inn isn't fancy, but it does have a few amenities - like a hearth room with a fireplace in it with two sliding double doors for privacy. The doctor had instructed they meet him in there, and when they arrive, they'll find him standing in the doorway of the room. He gestures for them to enter, and make themselves comfortable on the couch across from the fireplace, which is lit. "Evening," He says softly, "Are any of you hungry? Thirsty?" 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "Hello, Doctor. I'll take something to drink. No idea how long I'm going to be here," Navi advises, seating herself on the corner of the couch. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde shakes his head at the question and sits down. Actually, he is kind of hungry, but somehow doesn't find himself in the mood for eating at the same time. So he just settles into the sofa, staring into the fire with an unreadable expression on his face. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha is content with sitting on the floor, tucking her legs beneath her as she does. "I'm fine with just a drink myself." She offers. She's likely been eating fairly well between Hap's, the convent, and whatever food Wiis feeds her. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' The doctor arches his brows at Navi. "That's entirely up to you," he says, glancing over at Zetha and Cayde, "I'm certainly not going to keep anyone captive here." He motions to a service droid outside the room, who comes in and takes Navi and Zetha's drink requests. And despite Cayde's decision not to eat or drink anything, the doctor asks the droid to get a glass over water and a piece of toast for him. "How have things been for all of you?" the doctor begins. 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "Same ol'. Always bashing at the case files, never seem to actually get anything meaningful done until something else pops loose. Sounds like the whole place, really," Navi muses, accepting her drink when it comes. She waves to Zetha and Cayde as they arrive. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde nods vaguely at Soren's question of how things have been. [Okay] he signs, still staring into the fireplace. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "I took someone's advice and wound up on a date. So things are going well for me right now." Zetha offers, and likely just orders water for herself at this time. Clear mind and all that. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "Believe it or not, I think things may be about to take a turn for the better," the doctor says, "with the drill bit finished and the evidence the marauder provided us validated, Weniscio is scheduled to stand trial back on Coruscant in a few weeks. We're being asked to accompany - and Zetha, they're going to want you to testify. We'll talk later. The Republic has also decided that in light of the events that have transpired on Tenoo, they're going to extract Veena, and replace her with someone from the CSF proper. A forensic analyst, reputable, recommended by Kurrnak himself and someone we've worked with before. I think she'll be a fine addition to the team." "I've also managed to talk to Rykard recently, and he thinks he'll be up to resuming his title as Marshal soon, like perhaps within the next month or so. Navi and Cayde will remain co-deputies, and the responsibility of colony security will be more spread out." The droid arrives with the drinks, and Cayde's toast, which the young padawan may be surprised to find is set in front of him. He also won't be surprised by the doctor's news of Rykard returning soon, the elder Master had likely mentioned it to the young padawan at some point recently. "But I didn't call all three of you here to talk about those things," he says, setting aside the cup of tea he'd requested for himself. "I want to talk to about healthy conflict resolution." "We're not going to discuss the event that was the catalyst or about who was right, and who was wrong. We'd be here all day if we did, and it would accomplish nothing. What I want to help you with is how to move forward peacefully in a healthy way when you're not seeing eye to eye on certain matters." 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "Well, I won't be sorry to see Veena go, and without her, Mondrian won't have anyone to reinforce his bad behavior. That can only be a good thing," Navi observes. "And it's good that Master Rykard is doing better. It'll be good to have him back, whether he's on the job or not. But on the job is better." "Since I'm here and you bought drinks, the least I can do is listen," she adds. Zetha gets a faint smile. "Nice to see you're dating someone new. Hopefully someone nice." 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Right, Veena had never been very kind to anyone, really. Not even Mondrian. Hopefully whomever was replacing her will be better, not worse. Cayde glances down at the food set in front of him, arching a brow at it. He hadn't asked for anything, but he slowly begins to pick at it anyway.     [I am happy master will return soon] he signs, nodding. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "I'm alright with listening to how to avoid conflict in the future." Though, Zetha has thoughts already on how things might go better. She won't voice them here though - not yet anyway. Then she smiles at Navi's comment to her and nods. "Well you all could certainly be the outsiders looking in on that. I went on a date with Crane. We went and watched the sunset. It was nice." She takes a sip of water then. "Those names don't sound familiar but it seems it'd be for the better. It's nice when things change for the better." Regardless of how the better comes about? Probably not. But progress is progress. Wait a minute. "I get to go to Coruscant?" 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "No one will be sorry to see her go," the doctor affirms Navi, "and the new forensic analyst -will- make Mondrian behave." He pauses. "They're related. Kurrnak was reluctant to tell me, but I think transparency is important, here." "Yes," the doctor says. "But we'll talk about that later." He turns to the three of them. "Now, to the best of your ability, without going into detail about the events and interactions that caused the conflict, I want you to articulate to me, and everyone else, what it was that the offending party did or said that caused you to be upset or annoyed. You're all going to take a turn doing as I've asked, but if no one volunteers to go first, I'm just going to pick someone." 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "I remember there being another Mondrian in the security forces. If it's the same one I've met, she's a hundred times better than he is," Navi observes. "And Mondrian definitely needs someone looking over his shoulder. Preferably ready to pinch his ear." "Yeaaah, definitely not volunteering... that whole situation was such a mess that I have no idea how to condense it or name specifics. The only thing I can cite is a lack of empathy and a failure to react in a timely manner to new information," Navi says, crossing her arms and sinking her chin onto her chest, not even realizing she's basically done exactly what he wanted her to! Be nice to her... she's had a long year... 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde frowns when Zetha mentions having gone a date with 'Crane.' There is a little bit of a sigh from him, as if there is some unspoken frustration.     He also doesn't volunteer to go first in Soren's 'sharing' request. That had been...some weeks ago. The thought of it just brings...disappointment. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha looks between the others, back to Soren and then to Cayde at that little sigh he gave. Oh she'll have to do something about that later. "I think it was just tension at the time being high. I couldn't begin to remember everything that was said." Though she does look to the floor at one point. "I know I'm sorry for my part of it. I can't remember what I said, but I know that the way I said it was hurtful. And that's not great. Can't change it, but can learn from it." 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "Thank you, Navi, Zetha," the doctor says sincerely. "That was helpful, and I think it's progress." He looks over at the young padawan. "Cayde, it's your turn. I want you to try to articulate why what Zetha and Navi said and did upset you." 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     There is a pause that seems to stretch for eternity, as Cayde just stares into the fire. But he eventually sighs and turns back to Soren. [They not trust me] he replies. 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "Well, I meant a lack of empathy on someone else's part, not mine, but thanks," Navi replies to the Doctor, a little confused. "I regret hurting Cayde's feelings, but I don't regret my choices or actions. I'd do them again if I had the choice to do it all over. Might word a few things differently, maybe." 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "Cayde's right." Zetha says. "There's a lack of trust..." She continues, looking over to the young Padawan now. "Some of it is likely based on outside influences - at least on my part. But that can change, if you'll give the time to let it. You deserve to be trusted, otherwise...you won't be able to grow." Look at her go. "It's kinda hard though...when even a little bit of questioning motives or wants or actions causes that person to run off. Not that I have any personal experience in that regard what. So. Ever." Nope. None. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "It's alright," the doctor says to Navi, "I understand, I was simply thanking you for sharing - being vulnerable is always progress, in my opinion," he says. "And while my guess is that Cayde didn't mean to react without empathy, I'll let him speak for himself." He turns to Cayde. "Cayde, you must understand that there will be matters that we can trust you with, and matters that we may not trust you with. For example, we all trust that you intend to do good, and that when it comes to discerning the truth about someone's intentions, your judgement will always be our default. However, things like your own physical health, ability to sleep or eat in a timely fashion, are matters that we can't trust you with because you've yet to show us that you can be responsible in these areas." "Zetha is right, given time and effort, it will be easier for us to feel less afraid that you'll make healthy decisions in the areas you've yet to prove yourself in." "I also think you're confusing the word 'trust', with 'agreement.' Just because Navi and Zetha didn't agree with the decision you made, doesn't mean they don't trust you at all. And sometimes, you must just agree to disagree, or come to a compromise. In the end, proving someone right or wrong isn't more important than your friendships." 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Empathy? A lack of empathy, was it? For -whom-, exactly? Cayde's expression hardens at this. [I know... I mean...not trust me to do right] he tries to clarify. Trust and agreement might not always be the same thing...but, well, sometimes they just -were-, when it came to certain issues.     [Not trust the Jedi the to do right] his gaze flits over toward Navi at this, as he knows she has her own issues with the Order now, it seems. 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "The same Jedi who wanted to sock you away in the Outer Rim forever because you're telepathic?" Navi asks Cayde. "Remember what I said about individuals versus groups, the Jedi Order being the largest example in question." 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Dad...the kids are getting heated again. "Just because people in the Jedi Order are asshats, doesn't mean all Jedi are. Cayde's tried...even recently...and we all kind of gave him a pat on the shoulder and ushered him to be quiet." Zetha says this much and then shakes her head. "I'm still learning here...and the only examples of anything or anyone are all of you who have come into my life recently." She looks between Navi and Cayde a moment. "Anyway. I don't have a speeder in this race. I can only promise to try and do better." 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "Cayde, this isn't about trust," the doctor says, "this is fundamentally about a disagreement about what was right, and what was wrong. And I'm saying that regardless of what was right or wrong to do in the situation, the importance of maintaining healthy relationships far outweighs trying to make someone agree with your idea of what's right." "When you say it like that, it sounds like a sweeping generalization," he says. He turns to Navi, "I know you don't believe that all the Jedi are incapable of doing anything good or right," he says, "but I think Cayde needs to hear it. At least tell him what you think of Master Yutelli, and Windu." The doctor nods at Zetha. "At least accept Zetha's apology, and Navi's admittance to regretting hurting your feelings. This isn't about trying to make everyone abide by what you believe is right, this is about compromise, and having healthy relationships by conflict resolving peacefully." 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "I never said they were... that's why I said what I said about individuals versus groups," Navi clarifies, at first to Zetha, and then to the entire room. "Cayde's Masters have, each and every one, fought hard to keep him as a relevant and contributing member of the Order, while the Jedi Council has fought to keep him away from people, for reasons not clear to me. They probably don't like the disturbances that go along with him." 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     [Right and wrong are important] Cayde points out.     He shrugs at Navi. [I would respect decision] Even if it would've been hard. But the life of a Jedi wasn't an easy one. No one expected that.     [Already accept] Didn't he? But there is still a deep disappointment somewhere in there, and he stares at the floor. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "Speaking of trust..." Zetha looks over to Cayde then. "What are you not telling me?" Cause he's now acted weird or somehow upset three times and that's not settling well with the Twi'lek. "What was that sigh you gave when I mentioned I went on a date with Crane?" 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "They are important, but they're not so important that you should choose alienation over compromise! Especially not in that situation, and especially not for you!" the doctor says, his frustration suddenly seeping through, slightly. "Well, I don't," the doctor suddenly says, abruptly. "The last thing you need, is to be lonely." But when Cayde says he accepts their apology, the doctor says, "thank you, Cayde. But I need you to know that this is critical for you. Please don't sabotage your relationships simply because you don't know how to agree to disagree with them." "Zetha... please, not now. I'm sorry, but I think there's several things I need to sort with Cayde privately. You can catch Cayde another time." He turns to the young padawan. "I have to go get some paperwork from the hospital regarding that family at the homestead you ran into prior, but I should be right back and I want you to come up to the room I'm staying in and we'll continue our talk there afterwards." He then hands him the keycard for the room. 
}}

The Kids Are Fighting

2025-11-11T18:35:46Z

Andromeda: Created page with "{{Log Header |Date of Scene=2025-11-04 |Synopsis=Soren attempts to help conflict resolve. |Cast of Characters=159, 261, 143, 444 |pretty=yes }} {{Poses |Poses=:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Evening's falling in Kublop, and Zetha, Navi, and Cayde would have all received text transmissions from the doctor to meet him at the local inn just down the street from the convent. None of them will likely be surprised by this message, as the doctor had ment..."

{{Log Header
|Date of Scene=2025-11-04
|Synopsis=Soren attempts to help conflict resolve.
|Cast of Characters=159, 261, 143, 444
|pretty=yes
}}
{{Poses
|Poses=:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Evening's falling in Kublop, and Zetha, Navi, and Cayde would have all received text transmissions from the doctor to meet him at the local inn just down the street from the convent. None of them will likely be surprised by this message, as the doctor had mentioned to them earlier that he'd wanted to have a talk with all of them... privately. 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "Lovely..." Navi murmurs, putting away her comlink as she rises and turns toward the inn. "Even odds this is just going to be an hour of my life I'm never getting back." 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde has a feeling he knows what this is about, and he doesn't particularly like the idea of thinking about it again. But, it's probably good for him. So he sighs and heads to the inn anyway. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha also heads to the inn, and since she had been at the convent anyway, it's not going to take her long to arrive. She is all smiles. Like, having a good day smile. No, really. She even maybe seems a bit lighter on her feet and in her shoulders - where all the stress sits. So while Navi and Cayde are dreading the event, she can't seem to find fault in it. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' The inn isn't fancy, but it does have a few amenities - like a hearth room with a fireplace in it with two sliding double doors for privacy. The doctor had instructed they meet him in there, and when they arrive, they'll find him standing in the doorway of the room. He gestures for them to enter, and make themselves comfortable on the couch across from the fireplace, which is lit. "Evening," He says softly, "Are any of you hungry? Thirsty?" 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "Hello, Doctor. I'll take something to drink. No idea how long I'm going to be here," Navi advises, seating herself on the corner of the couch. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde shakes his head at the question and sits down. Actually, he is kind of hungry, but somehow doesn't find himself in the mood for eating at the same time. So he just settles into the sofa, staring into the fire with an unreadable expression on his face. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha is content with sitting on the floor, tucking her legs beneath her as she does. "I'm fine with just a drink myself." She offers. She's likely been eating fairly well between Hap's, the convent, and whatever food Wiis feeds her. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' The doctor arches his brows at Navi. "That's entirely up to you," he says, glancing over at Zetha and Cayde, "I'm certainly not going to keep anyone captive here." He motions to a service droid outside the room, who comes in and takes Navi and Zetha's drink requests. And despite Cayde's decision not to eat or drink anything, the doctor asks the droid to get a glass over water and a piece of toast for him. "How have things been for all of you?" the doctor begins. 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "Same ol'. Always bashing at the case files, never seem to actually get anything meaningful done until something else pops loose. Sounds like the whole place, really," Navi muses, accepting her drink when it comes. She waves to Zetha and Cayde as they arrive. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde nods vaguely at Soren's question of how things have been. [Okay] he signs, still staring into the fireplace. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "I took someone's advice and wound up on a date. So things are going well for me right now." Zetha offers, and likely just orders water for herself at this time. Clear mind and all that. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "Believe it or not, I think things may be about to take a turn for the better," the doctor says, "with the drill bit finished and the evidence the marauder provided us validated, Weniscio is scheduled to stand trial back on Coruscant in a few weeks. We're being asked to accompany - and Zetha, they're going to want you to testify. We'll talk later. The Republic has also decided that in light of the events that have transpired on Tenoo, they're going to extract Veena, and replace her with someone from the CSF proper. A forensic analyst, reputable, recommended by Kurrnak himself and someone we've worked with before. I think she'll be a fine addition to the team." "I've also managed to talk to Rykard recently, and he thinks he'll be up to resuming his title as Marshal soon, like perhaps within the next month or so. Navi and Cayde will remain co-deputies, and the responsibility of colony security will be more spread out." The droid arrives with the drinks, and Cayde's toast, which the young padawan may be surprised to find is set in front of him. He also won't be surprised by the doctor's news of Rykard returning soon, the elder Master had likely mentioned it to the young padawan at some point recently. "But I didn't call all three of you here to talk about those things," he says, setting aside the cup of tea he'd requested for himself. "I want to talk to about healthy conflict resolution." "We're not going to discuss the event that was the catalyst or about who was right, and who was wrong. We'd be here all day if we did, and it would accomplish nothing. What I want to help you with is how to move forward peacefully in a healthy way when you're not seeing eye to eye on certain matters." 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "Well, I won't be sorry to see Veena go, and without her, Mondrian won't have anyone to reinforce his bad behavior. That can only be a good thing," Navi observes. "And it's good that Master Rykard is doing better. It'll be good to have him back, whether he's on the job or not. But on the job is better." "Since I'm here and you bought drinks, the least I can do is listen," she adds. Zetha gets a faint smile. "Nice to see you're dating someone new. Hopefully someone nice." 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Right, Veena had never been very kind to anyone, really. Not even Mondrian. Hopefully whomever was replacing her will be better, not worse. Cayde glances down at the food set in front of him, arching a brow at it. He hadn't asked for anything, but he slowly begins to pick at it anyway.     [I am happy master will return soon] he signs, nodding. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "I'm alright with listening to how to avoid conflict in the future." Though, Zetha has thoughts already on how things might go better. She won't voice them here though - not yet anyway. Then she smiles at Navi's comment to her and nods. "Well you all could certainly be the outsiders looking in on that. I went on a date with Crane. We went and watched the sunset. It was nice." She takes a sip of water then. "Those names don't sound familiar but it seems it'd be for the better. It's nice when things change for the better." Regardless of how the better comes about? Probably not. But progress is progress. Wait a minute. "I get to go to Coruscant?" 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "No one will be sorry to see her go," the doctor affirms Navi, "and the new forensic analyst -will- make Mondrian behave." He pauses. "They're related. Kurrnak was reluctant to tell me, but I think transparency is important, here." "Yes," the doctor says. "But we'll talk about that later." He turns to the three of them. "Now, to the best of your ability, without going into detail about the events and interactions that caused the conflict, I want you to articulate to me, and everyone else, what it was that the offending party did or said that caused you to be upset or annoyed. You're all going to take a turn doing as I've asked, but if no one volunteers to go first, I'm just going to pick someone." 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "I remember there being another Mondrian in the security forces. If it's the same one I've met, she's a hundred times better than he is," Navi observes. "And Mondrian definitely needs someone looking over his shoulder. Preferably ready to pinch his ear." "Yeaaah, definitely not volunteering... that whole situation was such a mess that I have no idea how to condense it or name specifics. The only thing I can cite is a lack of empathy and a failure to react in a timely manner to new information," Navi says, crossing her arms and sinking her chin onto her chest, not even realizing she's basically done exactly what he wanted her to! Be nice to her... she's had a long year... 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde frowns when Zetha mentions having gone a date with 'Crane.' There is a little bit of a sigh from him, as if there is some unspoken frustration.     He also doesn't volunteer to go first in Soren's 'sharing' request. That had been...some weeks ago. The thought of it just brings...disappointment. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha looks between the others, back to Soren and then to Cayde at that little sigh he gave. Oh she'll have to do something about that later. "I think it was just tension at the time being high. I couldn't begin to remember everything that was said." Though she does look to the floor at one point. "I know I'm sorry for my part of it. I can't remember what I said, but I know that the way I said it was hurtful. And that's not great. Can't change it, but can learn from it." 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "Thank you, Navi, Zetha," the doctor says sincerely. "That was helpful, and I think it's progress." He looks over at the young padawan. "Cayde, it's your turn. I want you to try to articulate why what Zetha and Navi said and did upset you." 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     There is a pause that seems to stretch for eternity, as Cayde just stares into the fire. But he eventually sighs and turns back to Soren. [They not trust me] he replies. 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "Well, I meant a lack of empathy on someone else's part, not mine, but thanks," Navi replies to the Doctor, a little confused. "I regret hurting Cayde's feelings, but I don't regret my choices or actions. I'd do them again if I had the choice to do it all over. Might word a few things differently, maybe." 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "Cayde's right." Zetha says. "There's a lack of trust..." She continues, looking over to the young Padawan now. "Some of it is likely based on outside influences - at least on my part. But that can change, if you'll give the time to let it. You deserve to be trusted, otherwise...you won't be able to grow." Look at her go. "It's kinda hard though...when even a little bit of questioning motives or wants or actions causes that person to run off. Not that I have any personal experience in that regard what. So. Ever." Nope. None. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "It's alright," the doctor says to Navi, "I understand, I was simply thanking you for sharing - being vulnerable is always progress, in my opinion," he says. "And while my guess is that Cayde didn't mean to react without empathy, I'll let him speak for himself." He turns to Cayde. "Cayde, you must understand that there will be matters that we can trust you with, and matters that we may not trust you with. For example, we all trust that you intend to do good, and that when it comes to discerning the truth about someone's intentions, your judgement will always be our default. However, things like your own physical health, ability to sleep or eat in a timely fashion, are matters that we can't trust you with because you've yet to show us that you can be responsible in these areas." "Zetha is right, given time and effort, it will be easier for us to feel less afraid that you'll make healthy decisions in the areas you've yet to prove yourself in." "I also think you're confusing the word 'trust', with 'agreement.' Just because Navi and Zetha didn't agree with the decision you made, doesn't mean they don't trust you at all. And sometimes, you must just agree to disagree, or come to a compromise. In the end, proving someone right or wrong isn't more important than your friendships." 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Empathy? A lack of empathy, was it? For -whom-, exactly? Cayde's expression hardens at this. [I know... I mean...not trust me to do right] he tries to clarify. Trust and agreement might not always be the same thing...but, well, sometimes they just -were-, when it came to certain issues.     [Not trust the Jedi the to do right] his gaze flits over toward Navi at this, as he knows she has her own issues with the Order now, it seems. 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "The same Jedi who wanted to sock you away in the Outer Rim forever because you're telepathic?" Navi asks Cayde. "Remember what I said about individuals versus groups, the Jedi Order being the largest example in question." 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Dad...the kids are getting heated again. "Just because people in the Jedi Order are asshats, doesn't mean all Jedi are. Cayde's tried...even recently...and we all kind of gave him a pat on the shoulder and ushered him to be quiet." Zetha says this much and then shakes her head. "I'm still learning here...and the only examples of anything or anyone are all of you who have come into my life recently." She looks between Navi and Cayde a moment. "Anyway. I don't have a speeder in this race. I can only promise to try and do better." 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "Cayde, this isn't about trust," the doctor says, "this is fundamentally about a disagreement about what was right, and what was wrong. And I'm saying that regardless of what was right or wrong to do in the situation, the importance of maintaining healthy relationships far outweighs trying to make someone agree with your idea of what's right." "When you say it like that, it sounds like a sweeping generalization," he says. He turns to Navi, "I know you don't believe that all the Jedi are incapable of doing anything good or right," he says, "but I think Cayde needs to hear it. At least tell him what you think of Master Yutelli, and Windu." The doctor nods at Zetha. "At least accept Zetha's apology, and Navi's admittance to regretting hurting your feelings. This isn't about trying to make everyone abide by what you believe is right, this is about compromise, and having healthy relationships by conflict resolving peacefully." 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "I never said they were... that's why I said what I said about individuals versus groups," Navi clarifies, at first to Zetha, and then to the entire room. "Cayde's Masters have, each and every one, fought hard to keep him as a relevant and contributing member of the Order, while the Jedi Council has fought to keep him away from people, for reasons not clear to me. They probably don't like the disturbances that go along with him." 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     [Right and wrong are important] Cayde points out.     He shrugs at Navi. [I would respect decision] Even if it would've been hard. But the life of a Jedi wasn't an easy one. No one expected that.     [Already accept] Didn't he? But there is still a deep disappointment somewhere in there, and he stares at the floor. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "Speaking of trust..." Zetha looks over to Cayde then. "What are you not telling me?" Cause he's now acted weird or somehow upset three times and that's not settling well with the Twi'lek. "What was that sigh you gave when I mentioned I went on a date with Crane?" 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "They are important, but they're not so important that you should choose alienation over compromise! Especially not in that situation, and especially not for you!" the doctor says, his frustration suddenly seeping through, slightly. "Well, I don't," the doctor suddenly says, abruptly. "The last thing you need, is to be lonely." But when Cayde says he accepts their apology, the doctor says, "thank you, Cayde. But I need you to know that this is critical for you. Please don't sabotage your relationships simply because you don't know how to agree to disagree with them." "Zetha... please, not now. I'm sorry, but I think there's several things I need to sort with Cayde privately. You can catch Cayde another time." He turns to the young padawan. "I have to go get some paperwork from the hospital regarding that family at the homestead you ran into prior, but I should be right back and I want you to come up to the room I'm staying in and we'll continue our talk there afterwards." He then hands him the keycard for the room. 
}}

All in a Days Work

2025-11-10T20:32:55Z

Andromeda:

{{Log Header
|Date of Scene=2025-11-08
|Cast of Characters=444, 143
|pretty=yes
|Location=Kublop Spring - Tenoo - Outer Rim
|Synopsis=Cayde helps Zetha explore memories of her parents.
}}
{{Poses
|Poses=:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' After the ordeal with the Mandos on that ship and Zetha getting herself a gentle but stern talking to, she's decided to go back to the junkyard to work on a project and clear her head. Or maybe think about how she's going to perform the task put in front of her. In the meantime, she's at the ship graveyard, pulling junked items from the ship's cargo hold to try and clean it up a bit more and likely be able to move into the deeper guts of the ship easily. It's not hard to see her from the entrance of the junkyard - but one could definitely hear what's going on with the random crashes as she tosses things out. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     As Zetha is rooting around in the old cargo hold, she may be surprised to find Cayde asleep on the floor in a corner. What he had been doing here exactly is a mystery, but whatever sleep he's getting is not very restful, as he seems to be shifting and tossing every few seconds. His robe is rumpled up around him and sprawled on the floor at the same time. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha shifts back in to move another crate - there's a few, plus other junk - diralect ships are wild sometimes. This is when she spies Cayde and freezes in her motions. How had all the noise not awoken him, and what is he doing sleeping...here? In what might be one of the worst decisions ever, she walks over and kneels beside him, placing a hand on his shoulder and giving him a gentle shake. "Cayde? You need to wake up, friend. That cannot be comfortable..." 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Upon approaching, Zetha will notice that his face is wet with tears. When she shakes him, he jerks awake, but fortunately he recognized her before he tried to blast her back with the Force.     The padawan blinks and wipes his face with the back of his robe sleeve, sitting up. [...sorry] he signs. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' There's a hidden appreciation that Cayde can now recognize her well enough that he doesn't blast her with the Force or smack her away somewhow. As he sits up, she watches him wipe his face and then she shifts to sit cross-legged in front of him. "No need to be sorry...but if you needed a place to rest we would have offered you the couch at least." This said with a kind smile. "What's wrong?" 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     [Nothing] Cayde replies, shaking his head quickly. Although Zetha won't need the Force to know that couldn't be farther from the truth. He gets to his feet, and starts dusting the junk that had collected on his robe due to being swiped all over the floor. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "Cayde..." Zetha says calmly and then stands up herself. "You of everyone should know it takes a liar to know one. So I'm calling you out... We both know you shouldn't bottle it all in." She offers. "I know we haven't gotten along well recently...and for what it's worth...I'm sorry. I'm sorry if it ever seemed like I doubted you or didn't pay attention to you. I'll be better about it. I promise. So please, tell me what's wrong?" 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde doesn't respond for a few moments, idly plucking debris out of his clothes. Finally, he stops and looks back up at her, his face mostly unreadable as usual. [Bad dream about past] he eventually answers, shrugging.     [,,,so you trust me now] he asks, his expression hardening a bit. [Navigator wrong about the Order] Zetha may or may not have picked up that 'navigator' is a sign shortcut he has begun using for 'Navi'. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "Bad dreams are never fun. I'm sorry." Zetha sort of leans left and right like she's looking over his robes a bit more while he continues plucking debris from them. "Another reason why you should have asked for the couch. Random shuttles are never fun to sleep in.." But Cayde may have noticed some left over evidence of Zetha herself having slept here a time or two. "I trust you Cayde. I should have trusted you from the beginning. It's hard though...to figure out the people you've met are worth trusting or not. I know I've said it a lot...but I've only ever had Wiis in my life until recently. So figuring other people out has been...hard." She tilts her head at the last thing signed, and takes a moment to think on it. Soon, however, she offers - "I don't know anything about the Order. I take what Navi says with a hesitation. But are some of the things true? Like what she says about some people wanting to push you out while others are trying to keep you in?" 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Well it certainly sounded like she had some personal experience with that. [No...too close to others...need to be alone] he insists.     Cayde shrugs at her question. [Not everyone agree...not everyone ever agree] he points out. [But wrong to condemn the Council] After all, they had agreed to take him in the first place. And they had been patient with him all these years. [They are patient with me...you know I am difficult] he adds, his gaze falling a bit at this. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "Why do you need to be alone? I'm coming to terms with all the things that have happened...and having people like you, Thaarin, Crane, Doctor Cassias...it's helped me realize that having friends is helpful." Zetha speaks calmly, and watches as he continues to sign. "I've only ever heard what Navi's said about your past. I'd rather it come from the person. But...only when you're ready to talk about it. If ever. I won't push." When he signs that she knows he's difficult, she actually...smiles? "Well, you know it's been no walk in the woods for people to deal with me either. You may be difficult, but you're our difficulty...and I for one want to make sure you stick around to continue to be so." There's a light pause as she shifts to idly pick up smaller things while she talks. "I've been hoping to catch you, actually. To apologize like I did, and make sure you're really okay. And to let you know that I want you to consider me as someone you can trust also. I want to be a better friend to you, but I'm not perfect. I'm still going to try..." 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     [I can hurt others when upset....like...the farm] Cayde answers, reminding her of what had happened that day. In some cases, the consequences could be quite far-reaching.     He watches her thoughtfully, as the apology seems genuine. And the desire to be better, too. There is a pause. [Parents abandoned me too] he finally begins, regarding his past. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha looks over at Cayde, though she does take a moment to toss the junk in her hands out of the cargo hold and into the ever growing pile she'll get to rip apart later. When she steps back in, she moves a couple of crates that seem sturdy enough, and she sits on one. "Did you know them? Your parents I mean. Like...how old were you when it happened?" Something in common, that's always a good place to earn a bit of trust from. Even if that place isn't happy. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     [Not sure...I was young] Cayde replies, shrugging and sitting down on another crate nearby. [Barely remember them] The only clear memories he has are from his older half-brother, although he isn't yet sure he should tell her about that yet. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha is about to say something when her face gets a little...like a light bulb just went off. "Wait." She suddenly seems to get...pensive? Maybe even excited. "Not to side track anything but..so there was this noble guy that landed on Kublop a bit ago. He had...some people with him...we're pretty sure they were slaves. And...well...one of them looked like you. Like..a lot like you." She's not even sure she should really say this. "It was your mom. Cayde. Your mom is here. On Tenoo." 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde actually had a feeling about it, but he hadn't really wanted to think too hard about it. It was such a...loaded matter. [Thank you for telling me...] he signs, then looks away sadly. [...but I cannot see her...Order forbids...no attachment...no family] 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Well that sort of takes the wind out of Zetha's sails, but she nods. "That seems like...a lot to bear. But...I guess it's easy when you have no memories of them really. You can't form feelings...attachments. So you can sort of, put it out of your head." She takes a breath. "I...maybe I shouldn't have told you, but I didn't know. I don't know much about the rules with the Order.... how do you do it though? I mean, surely there has to be thoughts, questions, curiosities... I know I've had my share of them concerning my own parents." 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     [Do what] Cayde asks. How does he do what? Live by the Order's rules?     There's a pause, and he looks back to her, concern in his eyes. [...is she...how is she] he asks. Did he really not have any memories of her? 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "Follow the Order and all their rules. Seems to be a lot. I'm not judging, just asking. I've been...well there's a few books out there on the Force and such. Seems a Jedi's life is supposed to be one of peace, tranquility...and from what I've seen of a few it's the opposite of that." She frowns. "I kinda want to punch that Pike person in the face...even though I'm against violence in general." When Cayde asks about his mom, Zetha frowns. "She's currently in the hospital. We took an interest in her at first because she looked sick. Really sick. Navi and I had to go bust her out of the hotel and sneak her there..." 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     [Peace is in the mind...not outside] Cayde replies. Why of course the Jedi get involved in all sorts of chaotic and violent situations. It's kind of their job.     He frowns at the mention of the hospital. [what do you mean...sick with what] 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha shakes her head. "I'm not sure what it's with but..." She pauses a moment, her hands wringing together. "Cayde I'm pretty sure she's dying. Like she's sick with something that isn't going to be cured. I know you said the Order doesn't allow it...but I would maybe put my own thoughts out there and say that you should go see her. She remembered you. Asked if you were okay. Navi and I were going to tell you, I guess all our other business got in the way." For all Zetha knows her own parents could be dying themselves, or already dead. Perhaps this is her way of living vicariously though the young Padawan. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde sighs heavily, looking torn. But, this was the sort of sacrifice Jedi were supposed to make. Tears begin to form in his eyes again, though he tries to blink them away.     He looks away. [Must respect Order's wishes] he signs, repeating what he'd said that day he'd refused to sell the cortosis to the Mandalorians. [...there is not death...only the Force] 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha doesn't agree with that, but she doesn't have to agree to respect what Cayde says. "Alright. I won't push you. But if you change your mind, Cayde, you just let me know...alright?" She sees the tears forming, how he blinks them away. "Do you want a hug?" 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     There's a pause, then he finally nods and accepts a hug from Zetha if she gives it. Then after pulling away, he looks back to her with sincerity. [Tell her I love her] 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha does give the young man a hug, keeping it gentle and perhaps a bit short. When she sees what he signs after they pull apart, she nods. "I will." Then she sits back down on her crate and sighs. "Why did you choose to come here and sleep in a shuttle? Why not the convent or...I don't know. Room at the inn? Somewhere comfy. With a bed." Then she laughs. "At this point I feel like I should put a cot in here..." 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     [Thank you]     Not trying to...need away from others Cayde answers, hoping it was coherent enough. [What about you...will you find your parents] he asks, arching a brow at her. [...one day] 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' There's a look that shades Zetha's face at that question and then she shrugs her shoulders. "All I know is that they aren't here on Tenoo. Too small a place to never see them... and I was so young... I don't have anything to go off of. So as much as I would like to find them. It's very doubtful that I ever will. So I'm plagued with the questons I want answered." She then shakes her head and looks past Cayde to the surroundings in the cargo bay. "...but maybe one day. If I ever get off Tenoo..." 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     [But you will...see Coruscant] Cayde answers, recalling that Soren had said the Republic wanted them all to testify at the trial, including Zetha. [Core Worlds are a place to start] he offers. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "Yeah but that's for like...official business. I doubt we'll have time and I don't want to make any part of the trip about myself.." Zetha offers this, and then she shrugs her shoulders. "It's a nice thought though." There's a glance to him then. "Are you dodging my questions? Or do you not have any real reason to come all the way to the junkyard and hide in a ship?" 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     [But why not] Cayde asks, a brow going up at her. [Make time...you can find time...you never away from Tenoo] he reminds her.     He shrugs and starts telekinetically fiddling with some random pieces of junk that happen to be lying around. [Need away from others] he answers. [Bad dreams] 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "I know I'm not. I'm actually terrified to be leaving...and I don't want to go to Coruscant looking like..." Zetha looks herself over. "Plain and...well I just read that's it's such a nice place and I'd stick out like a sore thumb if I went looking like the scrapper I am." "To your point tho...maybe I will make time." She then picks up a few more things herself. "I don't even know their names or what they look like...where would I even begin?" 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     [Not all nice...only Upper City] Cayde points out. The Lower City was...well, suffice it to say that some parts were worse than this junkyard.     [Maybe you do] he suggests. [But not remember...I can help you remember] he offers. [...if you want] 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha just tilts her head and then nods. "I'm still trying to gain the courage to ask Wiis for some credits to at least get one or two newer outfits..." Not that there's a lot of places to shop on Tenoo... "Also. If you need a safe place to sleep .. I really could set up a cot here. So you're not on the floor." When he offers to help her try and remember her parents, she sinks into herself a bit. "...Maybe. I .. would it be like doing one of those mind visits?" 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     [A cot...maybe can be nice] Cayde seems accepting of this offer. Though he was never picky about comfort. Minimalist, and all.     He nods at her question. [Yes...take you back to your past...remember more from repressed memory] 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Cots are simple enough. She might even place some water bottles next to it. But she leaves that for now and then bites on her lower lip. "...I mean...if you think it will help? Doesn't hurt to try..." Then she laughs nervously. "Did you want to do that now?" 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     [It might] Cayde replies, nodding. Well....it wasn't true that it couldn't hurt. It really could. [...it might help...might hurt...might both] he answers honestly. [But you want lead...best to start with yourself]     He holds out a hand, offering up the contact to ease the connection, if she'd take it. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha seems hesitant at first. What if she doesn't like what she remembers? Something in the back of her mind that she was keeping hidden to protect herself? But she also knows she has a million questions and Cayde was right. This is the only way to start. So she reaches out and takes his hand with a slow breath out as well. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde closes his eyes and takes her hand, entering her mind and first easing her in by taking her back to her earliest clear memories. The streets of Kublop, where she'd been living alone. What had been in her mind at the time? Just survival, or had she wondered then about her family at all? Perhaps, there was a chance, something had happened. Something beyond their control. Not that they didn't want her...this is what Cayde believes about his own parents. They'd abandoned him, yes. But, not out of a lack of care. Perhaps they hadn't had a choice. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha had always said she was about three or four when her parents had abandoned her - or at least that's the age she remembers being when memories first started forming. But as the two in the ship cargo hold take hands the memory forms a bit shady at first. Little Zetha dragged into an alley way between two shops in Kublop, a man pressing her to a wall. "You'll stay here and behave! Nothin' but bantha fodder anyway..." Then he turns and walks away. "Good for nothing nerf herders. Causin' me nothin' but trouble...we'll take 'em to the furthest reaches. They won't know the kids gone until we're halfway to Dantooine if I had any thoughts about it.." There's no real features that are imprinted on Zetha's memory but she stands there looking at the vision and almost feels sick. "...I...what the kriff..." Is muttered from the older version of her. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde watches the memory, then frowns, trying to focus on making the details of the man's features clearer. Just who was this? Certainly not Zetha's father. Perhaps it was true then, that her parents hadn't -willfully- abandoned her. Perhaps she'd been kidnapped, or gotten lost...     <So not unwanted...after all?> he offers. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' The features begin to come more clear, and it's evident fairly quickly that this man is a Zygerrian. In one final move as if to keep Zetha from trying to follow after him like any lost child might do, he acts like he's about to attack her. Enough that she cowers back and hunches down. Then the Zygerrian scoffs, backs away and waves for the two with him to follow. Also Zygerrians. They begin to walk off. "Left behind...a problem...an unwanted problem..." Zetha says quietly. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde frowns. Zygerrians? Were these slavers, like many of tended to be? <But they are not your parents> he points out. Who were they? He focuses, trying to push back farther. When was the last time she'd seen her parents? 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' The vision cuts to the inside of some quarters on a ship. Little Zetha running around, screaming cheerfully while - presumably her father - chases after her. He finally catches up with her, picks her up and swings her around before hugging her close. "Our little Zetha..." Cause at least she remembered her name, "I hope you grow up strong, and are able to stay out of trouble." He looks...sad. But he has the same color of skin that Zetha does, and the same purple eyes. "Easy with her, Dra'on..." Comes a female voice. "Come on. We should have something to eat before we land..." "Of course. Tandi. You're right. I just wanted..." Then the man smiles. "Ah. Never mind. Come on, let's eat.." They were only given quarter because of Zetha's birth. Not that Zetha would know -that- information. And suddenly the older Twi'lek woman staring at these two people suddenly turns away. "I...why did I forget? How could I..." 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde frowns pensively, trying to focus on the details of the surroundings. Well they got names, that was good. -Really- good. Dra'on, and Tandi. Rumir, presumably? Now what about the name of the ship? That might be useful.     <This...you came here on this ship? Or other ship...> Had she lived here before, with her parents? 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "Had to of been another ship. This ship's been here for a while...it was here when Wiis brought me to the junkyard. No, they...they had to have left. Dantooine. Is Dantooine known to have people who hire..." She doesn't say the word. Slaves. Were her parents slaves? "I...can we stop for now...I don't want to see this anymore..." Well, she was wrong about one other thing. This actually kind of hurts. "They knew...they knew I was going to be left behind..." 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde nods and withdraws, pulling them both back to the present. Well, it was a lead. Names, and a place. [Yes...but maybe had no choice] he remarks.     He gives her a pointed look. [They cared for you...] 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha just stares into space for a moment after they withdraw from the memory. It takes a moment but she finally shakes her head. "They did...but why did I forget? Why did I shove all of that back? The time in the alley makes sense but why could I not remember them?" She drops her head into her hands. "I hated them. For so long. Held nothing but anger. And it wasn't their fault..." 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde pats her shoulder gently. [You were young] he points out. [Could not understand...but now understanding]     [You have names now...and a place] he reminds her. [Start there...maybe find them one day] 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "Yeah..." Zetha says softly and then takes in a breath to let out sharp. "I'm going to go grab you a cot. Just set you up a nice little spot here. Maybe you can help me re-fit some things while I work on this ship. Trying to make it worthy to fly again." She smiles, but it's behind tearful eyes. "Anyway. If you need anything give me a hollar..." 
}}

All in a Days Work

2025-11-10T20:32:25Z

Andromeda:

{{Log Header
|Date of Scene=2025-11-08
|Cast of Characters=444, 143
|pretty=yes
|Location=Kublop Spring - Tenoo - Outer Rim
}}
{{Poses
|Poses=:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' After the ordeal with the Mandos on that ship and Zetha getting herself a gentle but stern talking to, she's decided to go back to the junkyard to work on a project and clear her head. Or maybe think about how she's going to perform the task put in front of her. In the meantime, she's at the ship graveyard, pulling junked items from the ship's cargo hold to try and clean it up a bit more and likely be able to move into the deeper guts of the ship easily. It's not hard to see her from the entrance of the junkyard - but one could definitely hear what's going on with the random crashes as she tosses things out. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     As Zetha is rooting around in the old cargo hold, she may be surprised to find Cayde asleep on the floor in a corner. What he had been doing here exactly is a mystery, but whatever sleep he's getting is not very restful, as he seems to be shifting and tossing every few seconds. His robe is rumpled up around him and sprawled on the floor at the same time. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha shifts back in to move another crate - there's a few, plus other junk - diralect ships are wild sometimes. This is when she spies Cayde and freezes in her motions. How had all the noise not awoken him, and what is he doing sleeping...here? In what might be one of the worst decisions ever, she walks over and kneels beside him, placing a hand on his shoulder and giving him a gentle shake. "Cayde? You need to wake up, friend. That cannot be comfortable..." 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Upon approaching, Zetha will notice that his face is wet with tears. When she shakes him, he jerks awake, but fortunately he recognized her before he tried to blast her back with the Force.     The padawan blinks and wipes his face with the back of his robe sleeve, sitting up. [...sorry] he signs. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' There's a hidden appreciation that Cayde can now recognize her well enough that he doesn't blast her with the Force or smack her away somewhow. As he sits up, she watches him wipe his face and then she shifts to sit cross-legged in front of him. "No need to be sorry...but if you needed a place to rest we would have offered you the couch at least." This said with a kind smile. "What's wrong?" 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     [Nothing] Cayde replies, shaking his head quickly. Although Zetha won't need the Force to know that couldn't be farther from the truth. He gets to his feet, and starts dusting the junk that had collected on his robe due to being swiped all over the floor. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "Cayde..." Zetha says calmly and then stands up herself. "You of everyone should know it takes a liar to know one. So I'm calling you out... We both know you shouldn't bottle it all in." She offers. "I know we haven't gotten along well recently...and for what it's worth...I'm sorry. I'm sorry if it ever seemed like I doubted you or didn't pay attention to you. I'll be better about it. I promise. So please, tell me what's wrong?" 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde doesn't respond for a few moments, idly plucking debris out of his clothes. Finally, he stops and looks back up at her, his face mostly unreadable as usual. [Bad dream about past] he eventually answers, shrugging.     [,,,so you trust me now] he asks, his expression hardening a bit. [Navigator wrong about the Order] Zetha may or may not have picked up that 'navigator' is a sign shortcut he has begun using for 'Navi'. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "Bad dreams are never fun. I'm sorry." Zetha sort of leans left and right like she's looking over his robes a bit more while he continues plucking debris from them. "Another reason why you should have asked for the couch. Random shuttles are never fun to sleep in.." But Cayde may have noticed some left over evidence of Zetha herself having slept here a time or two. "I trust you Cayde. I should have trusted you from the beginning. It's hard though...to figure out the people you've met are worth trusting or not. I know I've said it a lot...but I've only ever had Wiis in my life until recently. So figuring other people out has been...hard." She tilts her head at the last thing signed, and takes a moment to think on it. Soon, however, she offers - "I don't know anything about the Order. I take what Navi says with a hesitation. But are some of the things true? Like what she says about some people wanting to push you out while others are trying to keep you in?" 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Well it certainly sounded like she had some personal experience with that. [No...too close to others...need to be alone] he insists.     Cayde shrugs at her question. [Not everyone agree...not everyone ever agree] he points out. [But wrong to condemn the Council] After all, they had agreed to take him in the first place. And they had been patient with him all these years. [They are patient with me...you know I am difficult] he adds, his gaze falling a bit at this. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "Why do you need to be alone? I'm coming to terms with all the things that have happened...and having people like you, Thaarin, Crane, Doctor Cassias...it's helped me realize that having friends is helpful." Zetha speaks calmly, and watches as he continues to sign. "I've only ever heard what Navi's said about your past. I'd rather it come from the person. But...only when you're ready to talk about it. If ever. I won't push." When he signs that she knows he's difficult, she actually...smiles? "Well, you know it's been no walk in the woods for people to deal with me either. You may be difficult, but you're our difficulty...and I for one want to make sure you stick around to continue to be so." There's a light pause as she shifts to idly pick up smaller things while she talks. "I've been hoping to catch you, actually. To apologize like I did, and make sure you're really okay. And to let you know that I want you to consider me as someone you can trust also. I want to be a better friend to you, but I'm not perfect. I'm still going to try..." 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     [I can hurt others when upset....like...the farm] Cayde answers, reminding her of what had happened that day. In some cases, the consequences could be quite far-reaching.     He watches her thoughtfully, as the apology seems genuine. And the desire to be better, too. There is a pause. [Parents abandoned me too] he finally begins, regarding his past. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha looks over at Cayde, though she does take a moment to toss the junk in her hands out of the cargo hold and into the ever growing pile she'll get to rip apart later. When she steps back in, she moves a couple of crates that seem sturdy enough, and she sits on one. "Did you know them? Your parents I mean. Like...how old were you when it happened?" Something in common, that's always a good place to earn a bit of trust from. Even if that place isn't happy. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     [Not sure...I was young] Cayde replies, shrugging and sitting down on another crate nearby. [Barely remember them] The only clear memories he has are from his older half-brother, although he isn't yet sure he should tell her about that yet. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha is about to say something when her face gets a little...like a light bulb just went off. "Wait." She suddenly seems to get...pensive? Maybe even excited. "Not to side track anything but..so there was this noble guy that landed on Kublop a bit ago. He had...some people with him...we're pretty sure they were slaves. And...well...one of them looked like you. Like..a lot like you." She's not even sure she should really say this. "It was your mom. Cayde. Your mom is here. On Tenoo." 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde actually had a feeling about it, but he hadn't really wanted to think too hard about it. It was such a...loaded matter. [Thank you for telling me...] he signs, then looks away sadly. [...but I cannot see her...Order forbids...no attachment...no family] 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Well that sort of takes the wind out of Zetha's sails, but she nods. "That seems like...a lot to bear. But...I guess it's easy when you have no memories of them really. You can't form feelings...attachments. So you can sort of, put it out of your head." She takes a breath. "I...maybe I shouldn't have told you, but I didn't know. I don't know much about the rules with the Order.... how do you do it though? I mean, surely there has to be thoughts, questions, curiosities... I know I've had my share of them concerning my own parents." 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     [Do what] Cayde asks. How does he do what? Live by the Order's rules?     There's a pause, and he looks back to her, concern in his eyes. [...is she...how is she] he asks. Did he really not have any memories of her? 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "Follow the Order and all their rules. Seems to be a lot. I'm not judging, just asking. I've been...well there's a few books out there on the Force and such. Seems a Jedi's life is supposed to be one of peace, tranquility...and from what I've seen of a few it's the opposite of that." She frowns. "I kinda want to punch that Pike person in the face...even though I'm against violence in general." When Cayde asks about his mom, Zetha frowns. "She's currently in the hospital. We took an interest in her at first because she looked sick. Really sick. Navi and I had to go bust her out of the hotel and sneak her there..." 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     [Peace is in the mind...not outside] Cayde replies. Why of course the Jedi get involved in all sorts of chaotic and violent situations. It's kind of their job.     He frowns at the mention of the hospital. [what do you mean...sick with what] 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha shakes her head. "I'm not sure what it's with but..." She pauses a moment, her hands wringing together. "Cayde I'm pretty sure she's dying. Like she's sick with something that isn't going to be cured. I know you said the Order doesn't allow it...but I would maybe put my own thoughts out there and say that you should go see her. She remembered you. Asked if you were okay. Navi and I were going to tell you, I guess all our other business got in the way." For all Zetha knows her own parents could be dying themselves, or already dead. Perhaps this is her way of living vicariously though the young Padawan. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde sighs heavily, looking torn. But, this was the sort of sacrifice Jedi were supposed to make. Tears begin to form in his eyes again, though he tries to blink them away.     He looks away. [Must respect Order's wishes] he signs, repeating what he'd said that day he'd refused to sell the cortosis to the Mandalorians. [...there is not death...only the Force] 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha doesn't agree with that, but she doesn't have to agree to respect what Cayde says. "Alright. I won't push you. But if you change your mind, Cayde, you just let me know...alright?" She sees the tears forming, how he blinks them away. "Do you want a hug?" 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     There's a pause, then he finally nods and accepts a hug from Zetha if she gives it. Then after pulling away, he looks back to her with sincerity. [Tell her I love her] 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha does give the young man a hug, keeping it gentle and perhaps a bit short. When she sees what he signs after they pull apart, she nods. "I will." Then she sits back down on her crate and sighs. "Why did you choose to come here and sleep in a shuttle? Why not the convent or...I don't know. Room at the inn? Somewhere comfy. With a bed." Then she laughs. "At this point I feel like I should put a cot in here..." 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     [Thank you]     Not trying to...need away from others Cayde answers, hoping it was coherent enough. [What about you...will you find your parents] he asks, arching a brow at her. [...one day] 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' There's a look that shades Zetha's face at that question and then she shrugs her shoulders. "All I know is that they aren't here on Tenoo. Too small a place to never see them... and I was so young... I don't have anything to go off of. So as much as I would like to find them. It's very doubtful that I ever will. So I'm plagued with the questons I want answered." She then shakes her head and looks past Cayde to the surroundings in the cargo bay. "...but maybe one day. If I ever get off Tenoo..." 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     [But you will...see Coruscant] Cayde answers, recalling that Soren had said the Republic wanted them all to testify at the trial, including Zetha. [Core Worlds are a place to start] he offers. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "Yeah but that's for like...official business. I doubt we'll have time and I don't want to make any part of the trip about myself.." Zetha offers this, and then she shrugs her shoulders. "It's a nice thought though." There's a glance to him then. "Are you dodging my questions? Or do you not have any real reason to come all the way to the junkyard and hide in a ship?" 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     [But why not] Cayde asks, a brow going up at her. [Make time...you can find time...you never away from Tenoo] he reminds her.     He shrugs and starts telekinetically fiddling with some random pieces of junk that happen to be lying around. [Need away from others] he answers. [Bad dreams] 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "I know I'm not. I'm actually terrified to be leaving...and I don't want to go to Coruscant looking like..." Zetha looks herself over. "Plain and...well I just read that's it's such a nice place and I'd stick out like a sore thumb if I went looking like the scrapper I am." "To your point tho...maybe I will make time." She then picks up a few more things herself. "I don't even know their names or what they look like...where would I even begin?" 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     [Not all nice...only Upper City] Cayde points out. The Lower City was...well, suffice it to say that some parts were worse than this junkyard.     [Maybe you do] he suggests. [But not remember...I can help you remember] he offers. [...if you want] 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha just tilts her head and then nods. "I'm still trying to gain the courage to ask Wiis for some credits to at least get one or two newer outfits..." Not that there's a lot of places to shop on Tenoo... "Also. If you need a safe place to sleep .. I really could set up a cot here. So you're not on the floor." When he offers to help her try and remember her parents, she sinks into herself a bit. "...Maybe. I .. would it be like doing one of those mind visits?" 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     [A cot...maybe can be nice] Cayde seems accepting of this offer. Though he was never picky about comfort. Minimalist, and all.     He nods at her question. [Yes...take you back to your past...remember more from repressed memory] 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Cots are simple enough. She might even place some water bottles next to it. But she leaves that for now and then bites on her lower lip. "...I mean...if you think it will help? Doesn't hurt to try..." Then she laughs nervously. "Did you want to do that now?" 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     [It might] Cayde replies, nodding. Well....it wasn't true that it couldn't hurt. It really could. [...it might help...might hurt...might both] he answers honestly. [But you want lead...best to start with yourself]     He holds out a hand, offering up the contact to ease the connection, if she'd take it. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha seems hesitant at first. What if she doesn't like what she remembers? Something in the back of her mind that she was keeping hidden to protect herself? But she also knows she has a million questions and Cayde was right. This is the only way to start. So she reaches out and takes his hand with a slow breath out as well. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde closes his eyes and takes her hand, entering her mind and first easing her in by taking her back to her earliest clear memories. The streets of Kublop, where she'd been living alone. What had been in her mind at the time? Just survival, or had she wondered then about her family at all? Perhaps, there was a chance, something had happened. Something beyond their control. Not that they didn't want her...this is what Cayde believes about his own parents. They'd abandoned him, yes. But, not out of a lack of care. Perhaps they hadn't had a choice. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha had always said she was about three or four when her parents had abandoned her - or at least that's the age she remembers being when memories first started forming. But as the two in the ship cargo hold take hands the memory forms a bit shady at first. Little Zetha dragged into an alley way between two shops in Kublop, a man pressing her to a wall. "You'll stay here and behave! Nothin' but bantha fodder anyway..." Then he turns and walks away. "Good for nothing nerf herders. Causin' me nothin' but trouble...we'll take 'em to the furthest reaches. They won't know the kids gone until we're halfway to Dantooine if I had any thoughts about it.." There's no real features that are imprinted on Zetha's memory but she stands there looking at the vision and almost feels sick. "...I...what the kriff..." Is muttered from the older version of her. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde watches the memory, then frowns, trying to focus on making the details of the man's features clearer. Just who was this? Certainly not Zetha's father. Perhaps it was true then, that her parents hadn't -willfully- abandoned her. Perhaps she'd been kidnapped, or gotten lost...     <So not unwanted...after all?> he offers. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' The features begin to come more clear, and it's evident fairly quickly that this man is a Zygerrian. In one final move as if to keep Zetha from trying to follow after him like any lost child might do, he acts like he's about to attack her. Enough that she cowers back and hunches down. Then the Zygerrian scoffs, backs away and waves for the two with him to follow. Also Zygerrians. They begin to walk off. "Left behind...a problem...an unwanted problem..." Zetha says quietly. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde frowns. Zygerrians? Were these slavers, like many of tended to be? <But they are not your parents> he points out. Who were they? He focuses, trying to push back farther. When was the last time she'd seen her parents? 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' The vision cuts to the inside of some quarters on a ship. Little Zetha running around, screaming cheerfully while - presumably her father - chases after her. He finally catches up with her, picks her up and swings her around before hugging her close. "Our little Zetha..." Cause at least she remembered her name, "I hope you grow up strong, and are able to stay out of trouble." He looks...sad. But he has the same color of skin that Zetha does, and the same purple eyes. "Easy with her, Dra'on..." Comes a female voice. "Come on. We should have something to eat before we land..." "Of course. Tandi. You're right. I just wanted..." Then the man smiles. "Ah. Never mind. Come on, let's eat.." They were only given quarter because of Zetha's birth. Not that Zetha would know -that- information. And suddenly the older Twi'lek woman staring at these two people suddenly turns away. "I...why did I forget? How could I..." 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde frowns pensively, trying to focus on the details of the surroundings. Well they got names, that was good. -Really- good. Dra'on, and Tandi. Rumir, presumably? Now what about the name of the ship? That might be useful.     <This...you came here on this ship? Or other ship...> Had she lived here before, with her parents? 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "Had to of been another ship. This ship's been here for a while...it was here when Wiis brought me to the junkyard. No, they...they had to have left. Dantooine. Is Dantooine known to have people who hire..." She doesn't say the word. Slaves. Were her parents slaves? "I...can we stop for now...I don't want to see this anymore..." Well, she was wrong about one other thing. This actually kind of hurts. "They knew...they knew I was going to be left behind..." 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde nods and withdraws, pulling them both back to the present. Well, it was a lead. Names, and a place. [Yes...but maybe had no choice] he remarks.     He gives her a pointed look. [They cared for you...] 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha just stares into space for a moment after they withdraw from the memory. It takes a moment but she finally shakes her head. "They did...but why did I forget? Why did I shove all of that back? The time in the alley makes sense but why could I not remember them?" She drops her head into her hands. "I hated them. For so long. Held nothing but anger. And it wasn't their fault..." 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde pats her shoulder gently. [You were young] he points out. [Could not understand...but now understanding]     [You have names now...and a place] he reminds her. [Start there...maybe find them one day] 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "Yeah..." Zetha says softly and then takes in a breath to let out sharp. "I'm going to go grab you a cot. Just set you up a nice little spot here. Maybe you can help me re-fit some things while I work on this ship. Trying to make it worthy to fly again." She smiles, but it's behind tearful eyes. "Anyway. If you need anything give me a hollar..." 
}}

All in a Days Work

2025-11-10T20:32:02Z

Andromeda: Created page with "{{Log Header |Date of Scene=2025-11-08 |Cast of Characters=444, 143 |pretty=yes }} {{Poses |Poses=:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' After the ordeal with the Mandos on that ship and Zetha getting herself a gentle but stern talking to, she's decided to go back to the junkyard to work on a project and clear her head. Or maybe think about how she's going to perform the task put in front of her. In the meantime, she's at the ship graveyard, pulling junked i..."

{{Log Header
|Date of Scene=2025-11-08
|Cast of Characters=444, 143
|pretty=yes
}}
{{Poses
|Poses=:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' After the ordeal with the Mandos on that ship and Zetha getting herself a gentle but stern talking to, she's decided to go back to the junkyard to work on a project and clear her head. Or maybe think about how she's going to perform the task put in front of her. In the meantime, she's at the ship graveyard, pulling junked items from the ship's cargo hold to try and clean it up a bit more and likely be able to move into the deeper guts of the ship easily. It's not hard to see her from the entrance of the junkyard - but one could definitely hear what's going on with the random crashes as she tosses things out. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     As Zetha is rooting around in the old cargo hold, she may be surprised to find Cayde asleep on the floor in a corner. What he had been doing here exactly is a mystery, but whatever sleep he's getting is not very restful, as he seems to be shifting and tossing every few seconds. His robe is rumpled up around him and sprawled on the floor at the same time. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha shifts back in to move another crate - there's a few, plus other junk - diralect ships are wild sometimes. This is when she spies Cayde and freezes in her motions. How had all the noise not awoken him, and what is he doing sleeping...here? In what might be one of the worst decisions ever, she walks over and kneels beside him, placing a hand on his shoulder and giving him a gentle shake. "Cayde? You need to wake up, friend. That cannot be comfortable..." 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Upon approaching, Zetha will notice that his face is wet with tears. When she shakes him, he jerks awake, but fortunately he recognized her before he tried to blast her back with the Force.     The padawan blinks and wipes his face with the back of his robe sleeve, sitting up. [...sorry] he signs. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' There's a hidden appreciation that Cayde can now recognize her well enough that he doesn't blast her with the Force or smack her away somewhow. As he sits up, she watches him wipe his face and then she shifts to sit cross-legged in front of him. "No need to be sorry...but if you needed a place to rest we would have offered you the couch at least." This said with a kind smile. "What's wrong?" 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     [Nothing] Cayde replies, shaking his head quickly. Although Zetha won't need the Force to know that couldn't be farther from the truth. He gets to his feet, and starts dusting the junk that had collected on his robe due to being swiped all over the floor. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "Cayde..." Zetha says calmly and then stands up herself. "You of everyone should know it takes a liar to know one. So I'm calling you out... We both know you shouldn't bottle it all in." She offers. "I know we haven't gotten along well recently...and for what it's worth...I'm sorry. I'm sorry if it ever seemed like I doubted you or didn't pay attention to you. I'll be better about it. I promise. So please, tell me what's wrong?" 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde doesn't respond for a few moments, idly plucking debris out of his clothes. Finally, he stops and looks back up at her, his face mostly unreadable as usual. [Bad dream about past] he eventually answers, shrugging.     [,,,so you trust me now] he asks, his expression hardening a bit. [Navigator wrong about the Order] Zetha may or may not have picked up that 'navigator' is a sign shortcut he has begun using for 'Navi'. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "Bad dreams are never fun. I'm sorry." Zetha sort of leans left and right like she's looking over his robes a bit more while he continues plucking debris from them. "Another reason why you should have asked for the couch. Random shuttles are never fun to sleep in.." But Cayde may have noticed some left over evidence of Zetha herself having slept here a time or two. "I trust you Cayde. I should have trusted you from the beginning. It's hard though...to figure out the people you've met are worth trusting or not. I know I've said it a lot...but I've only ever had Wiis in my life until recently. So figuring other people out has been...hard." She tilts her head at the last thing signed, and takes a moment to think on it. Soon, however, she offers - "I don't know anything about the Order. I take what Navi says with a hesitation. But are some of the things true? Like what she says about some people wanting to push you out while others are trying to keep you in?" 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Well it certainly sounded like she had some personal experience with that. [No...too close to others...need to be alone] he insists.     Cayde shrugs at her question. [Not everyone agree...not everyone ever agree] he points out. [But wrong to condemn the Council] After all, they had agreed to take him in the first place. And they had been patient with him all these years. [They are patient with me...you know I am difficult] he adds, his gaze falling a bit at this. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "Why do you need to be alone? I'm coming to terms with all the things that have happened...and having people like you, Thaarin, Crane, Doctor Cassias...it's helped me realize that having friends is helpful." Zetha speaks calmly, and watches as he continues to sign. "I've only ever heard what Navi's said about your past. I'd rather it come from the person. But...only when you're ready to talk about it. If ever. I won't push." When he signs that she knows he's difficult, she actually...smiles? "Well, you know it's been no walk in the woods for people to deal with me either. You may be difficult, but you're our difficulty...and I for one want to make sure you stick around to continue to be so." There's a light pause as she shifts to idly pick up smaller things while she talks. "I've been hoping to catch you, actually. To apologize like I did, and make sure you're really okay. And to let you know that I want you to consider me as someone you can trust also. I want to be a better friend to you, but I'm not perfect. I'm still going to try..." 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     [I can hurt others when upset....like...the farm] Cayde answers, reminding her of what had happened that day. In some cases, the consequences could be quite far-reaching.     He watches her thoughtfully, as the apology seems genuine. And the desire to be better, too. There is a pause. [Parents abandoned me too] he finally begins, regarding his past. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha looks over at Cayde, though she does take a moment to toss the junk in her hands out of the cargo hold and into the ever growing pile she'll get to rip apart later. When she steps back in, she moves a couple of crates that seem sturdy enough, and she sits on one. "Did you know them? Your parents I mean. Like...how old were you when it happened?" Something in common, that's always a good place to earn a bit of trust from. Even if that place isn't happy. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     [Not sure...I was young] Cayde replies, shrugging and sitting down on another crate nearby. [Barely remember them] The only clear memories he has are from his older half-brother, although he isn't yet sure he should tell her about that yet. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha is about to say something when her face gets a little...like a light bulb just went off. "Wait." She suddenly seems to get...pensive? Maybe even excited. "Not to side track anything but..so there was this noble guy that landed on Kublop a bit ago. He had...some people with him...we're pretty sure they were slaves. And...well...one of them looked like you. Like..a lot like you." She's not even sure she should really say this. "It was your mom. Cayde. Your mom is here. On Tenoo." 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde actually had a feeling about it, but he hadn't really wanted to think too hard about it. It was such a...loaded matter. [Thank you for telling me...] he signs, then looks away sadly. [...but I cannot see her...Order forbids...no attachment...no family] 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Well that sort of takes the wind out of Zetha's sails, but she nods. "That seems like...a lot to bear. But...I guess it's easy when you have no memories of them really. You can't form feelings...attachments. So you can sort of, put it out of your head." She takes a breath. "I...maybe I shouldn't have told you, but I didn't know. I don't know much about the rules with the Order.... how do you do it though? I mean, surely there has to be thoughts, questions, curiosities... I know I've had my share of them concerning my own parents." 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     [Do what] Cayde asks. How does he do what? Live by the Order's rules?     There's a pause, and he looks back to her, concern in his eyes. [...is she...how is she] he asks. Did he really not have any memories of her? 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "Follow the Order and all their rules. Seems to be a lot. I'm not judging, just asking. I've been...well there's a few books out there on the Force and such. Seems a Jedi's life is supposed to be one of peace, tranquility...and from what I've seen of a few it's the opposite of that." She frowns. "I kinda want to punch that Pike person in the face...even though I'm against violence in general." When Cayde asks about his mom, Zetha frowns. "She's currently in the hospital. We took an interest in her at first because she looked sick. Really sick. Navi and I had to go bust her out of the hotel and sneak her there..." 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     [Peace is in the mind...not outside] Cayde replies. Why of course the Jedi get involved in all sorts of chaotic and violent situations. It's kind of their job.     He frowns at the mention of the hospital. [what do you mean...sick with what] 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha shakes her head. "I'm not sure what it's with but..." She pauses a moment, her hands wringing together. "Cayde I'm pretty sure she's dying. Like she's sick with something that isn't going to be cured. I know you said the Order doesn't allow it...but I would maybe put my own thoughts out there and say that you should go see her. She remembered you. Asked if you were okay. Navi and I were going to tell you, I guess all our other business got in the way." For all Zetha knows her own parents could be dying themselves, or already dead. Perhaps this is her way of living vicariously though the young Padawan. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde sighs heavily, looking torn. But, this was the sort of sacrifice Jedi were supposed to make. Tears begin to form in his eyes again, though he tries to blink them away.     He looks away. [Must respect Order's wishes] he signs, repeating what he'd said that day he'd refused to sell the cortosis to the Mandalorians. [...there is not death...only the Force] 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha doesn't agree with that, but she doesn't have to agree to respect what Cayde says. "Alright. I won't push you. But if you change your mind, Cayde, you just let me know...alright?" She sees the tears forming, how he blinks them away. "Do you want a hug?" 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     There's a pause, then he finally nods and accepts a hug from Zetha if she gives it. Then after pulling away, he looks back to her with sincerity. [Tell her I love her] 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha does give the young man a hug, keeping it gentle and perhaps a bit short. When she sees what he signs after they pull apart, she nods. "I will." Then she sits back down on her crate and sighs. "Why did you choose to come here and sleep in a shuttle? Why not the convent or...I don't know. Room at the inn? Somewhere comfy. With a bed." Then she laughs. "At this point I feel like I should put a cot in here..." 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     [Thank you]     Not trying to...need away from others Cayde answers, hoping it was coherent enough. [What about you...will you find your parents] he asks, arching a brow at her. [...one day] 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' There's a look that shades Zetha's face at that question and then she shrugs her shoulders. "All I know is that they aren't here on Tenoo. Too small a place to never see them... and I was so young... I don't have anything to go off of. So as much as I would like to find them. It's very doubtful that I ever will. So I'm plagued with the questons I want answered." She then shakes her head and looks past Cayde to the surroundings in the cargo bay. "...but maybe one day. If I ever get off Tenoo..." 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     [But you will...see Coruscant] Cayde answers, recalling that Soren had said the Republic wanted them all to testify at the trial, including Zetha. [Core Worlds are a place to start] he offers. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "Yeah but that's for like...official business. I doubt we'll have time and I don't want to make any part of the trip about myself.." Zetha offers this, and then she shrugs her shoulders. "It's a nice thought though." There's a glance to him then. "Are you dodging my questions? Or do you not have any real reason to come all the way to the junkyard and hide in a ship?" 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     [But why not] Cayde asks, a brow going up at her. [Make time...you can find time...you never away from Tenoo] he reminds her.     He shrugs and starts telekinetically fiddling with some random pieces of junk that happen to be lying around. [Need away from others] he answers. [Bad dreams] 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "I know I'm not. I'm actually terrified to be leaving...and I don't want to go to Coruscant looking like..." Zetha looks herself over. "Plain and...well I just read that's it's such a nice place and I'd stick out like a sore thumb if I went looking like the scrapper I am." "To your point tho...maybe I will make time." She then picks up a few more things herself. "I don't even know their names or what they look like...where would I even begin?" 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     [Not all nice...only Upper City] Cayde points out. The Lower City was...well, suffice it to say that some parts were worse than this junkyard.     [Maybe you do] he suggests. [But not remember...I can help you remember] he offers. [...if you want] 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha just tilts her head and then nods. "I'm still trying to gain the courage to ask Wiis for some credits to at least get one or two newer outfits..." Not that there's a lot of places to shop on Tenoo... "Also. If you need a safe place to sleep .. I really could set up a cot here. So you're not on the floor." When he offers to help her try and remember her parents, she sinks into herself a bit. "...Maybe. I .. would it be like doing one of those mind visits?" 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     [A cot...maybe can be nice] Cayde seems accepting of this offer. Though he was never picky about comfort. Minimalist, and all.     He nods at her question. [Yes...take you back to your past...remember more from repressed memory] 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Cots are simple enough. She might even place some water bottles next to it. But she leaves that for now and then bites on her lower lip. "...I mean...if you think it will help? Doesn't hurt to try..." Then she laughs nervously. "Did you want to do that now?" 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     [It might] Cayde replies, nodding. Well....it wasn't true that it couldn't hurt. It really could. [...it might help...might hurt...might both] he answers honestly. [But you want lead...best to start with yourself]     He holds out a hand, offering up the contact to ease the connection, if she'd take it. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha seems hesitant at first. What if she doesn't like what she remembers? Something in the back of her mind that she was keeping hidden to protect herself? But she also knows she has a million questions and Cayde was right. This is the only way to start. So she reaches out and takes his hand with a slow breath out as well. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde closes his eyes and takes her hand, entering her mind and first easing her in by taking her back to her earliest clear memories. The streets of Kublop, where she'd been living alone. What had been in her mind at the time? Just survival, or had she wondered then about her family at all? Perhaps, there was a chance, something had happened. Something beyond their control. Not that they didn't want her...this is what Cayde believes about his own parents. They'd abandoned him, yes. But, not out of a lack of care. Perhaps they hadn't had a choice. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha had always said she was about three or four when her parents had abandoned her - or at least that's the age she remembers being when memories first started forming. But as the two in the ship cargo hold take hands the memory forms a bit shady at first. Little Zetha dragged into an alley way between two shops in Kublop, a man pressing her to a wall. "You'll stay here and behave! Nothin' but bantha fodder anyway..." Then he turns and walks away. "Good for nothing nerf herders. Causin' me nothin' but trouble...we'll take 'em to the furthest reaches. They won't know the kids gone until we're halfway to Dantooine if I had any thoughts about it.." There's no real features that are imprinted on Zetha's memory but she stands there looking at the vision and almost feels sick. "...I...what the kriff..." Is muttered from the older version of her. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde watches the memory, then frowns, trying to focus on making the details of the man's features clearer. Just who was this? Certainly not Zetha's father. Perhaps it was true then, that her parents hadn't -willfully- abandoned her. Perhaps she'd been kidnapped, or gotten lost...     <So not unwanted...after all?> he offers. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' The features begin to come more clear, and it's evident fairly quickly that this man is a Zygerrian. In one final move as if to keep Zetha from trying to follow after him like any lost child might do, he acts like he's about to attack her. Enough that she cowers back and hunches down. Then the Zygerrian scoffs, backs away and waves for the two with him to follow. Also Zygerrians. They begin to walk off. "Left behind...a problem...an unwanted problem..." Zetha says quietly. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde frowns. Zygerrians? Were these slavers, like many of tended to be? <But they are not your parents> he points out. Who were they? He focuses, trying to push back farther. When was the last time she'd seen her parents? 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' The vision cuts to the inside of some quarters on a ship. Little Zetha running around, screaming cheerfully while - presumably her father - chases after her. He finally catches up with her, picks her up and swings her around before hugging her close. "Our little Zetha..." Cause at least she remembered her name, "I hope you grow up strong, and are able to stay out of trouble." He looks...sad. But he has the same color of skin that Zetha does, and the same purple eyes. "Easy with her, Dra'on..." Comes a female voice. "Come on. We should have something to eat before we land..." "Of course. Tandi. You're right. I just wanted..." Then the man smiles. "Ah. Never mind. Come on, let's eat.." They were only given quarter because of Zetha's birth. Not that Zetha would know -that- information. And suddenly the older Twi'lek woman staring at these two people suddenly turns away. "I...why did I forget? How could I..." 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde frowns pensively, trying to focus on the details of the surroundings. Well they got names, that was good. -Really- good. Dra'on, and Tandi. Rumir, presumably? Now what about the name of the ship? That might be useful.     <This...you came here on this ship? Or other ship...> Had she lived here before, with her parents? 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "Had to of been another ship. This ship's been here for a while...it was here when Wiis brought me to the junkyard. No, they...they had to have left. Dantooine. Is Dantooine known to have people who hire..." She doesn't say the word. Slaves. Were her parents slaves? "I...can we stop for now...I don't want to see this anymore..." Well, she was wrong about one other thing. This actually kind of hurts. "They knew...they knew I was going to be left behind..." 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde nods and withdraws, pulling them both back to the present. Well, it was a lead. Names, and a place. [Yes...but maybe had no choice] he remarks.     He gives her a pointed look. [They cared for you...] 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha just stares into space for a moment after they withdraw from the memory. It takes a moment but she finally shakes her head. "They did...but why did I forget? Why did I shove all of that back? The time in the alley makes sense but why could I not remember them?" She drops her head into her hands. "I hated them. For so long. Held nothing but anger. And it wasn't their fault..." 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde pats her shoulder gently. [You were young] he points out. [Could not understand...but now understanding]     [You have names now...and a place] he reminds her. [Start there...maybe find them one day] 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "Yeah..." Zetha says softly and then takes in a breath to let out sharp. "I'm going to go grab you a cot. Just set you up a nice little spot here. Maybe you can help me re-fit some things while I work on this ship. Trying to make it worthy to fly again." She smiles, but it's behind tearful eyes. "Anyway. If you need anything give me a hollar..." 
}}

Do You Want to Punch Him

2025-11-05T22:09:01Z

Andromeda:

{{Log Header
|Date of Scene=2025-10-30
|Cast of Characters=159, 418, 296, 261, 143, 444, 321
|pretty=yes
|Location=Kublop Springs - Tenoo - Outer Rim
}}
{{Poses
|Poses=:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Night has fallen on Tenoo. The two moons have risen, and midnight is looming only an hour away. Despite this, the Mandalorians are likely awake, aware, and have business to conduct. Earlier that day, they'd taken the Baron Kasseady hostage, having found him and who would appear to be his twin brother, Caine, in the gorge. Now, the time has come for answers. Hopefully. 

:'''{{#var:418|Jorn (418)}} has posed:''' Something about this doesn't sit right. Jorn will try to run any scan or censor test Ellari's ship has available. Plus, both will be bound and restrainted. The mando would do everything in his power to make sure of that. Still, he's trying to make sure these two are who they claim to be. Finding them naked feels too weird and easy to be true. 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     Answers indeed. The two of them have been dragged back to the Amber Clad. At least she provided them with some spare sets of underwear, so that they can at least have some measure of dignity. She's not -that- depraved.     Anyway, she cuts straight to the chase. "So...I've heard one of you is only a year old." she tells them, her gaze moving between them. "Maybe it's just a rumor, but it has to have come from somewhere. Still, I heard there is a Jedi here who can discern truth from lie. If I were you, I would much rather volunteer the truth, than have it forced out of me." 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' Navi has been aboard since the two were brought back. "That thing about the Jedi? It's true," she says, supporting Ellari. "It's also rumored to be pretty unpleasant to have him rooting around in your mind." She's not about to mention that it's Cayde, and that he just can't discern personal privacy from public record... why would /that/ make them talk? 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "I'm cold," one of them says petulantly. Perhaps he really is only one year old. "I said I'd give you answers, after being provided a bath and clean clothes. Neither of which you've provided." He looks to Jorn, and then Ellari. For now, the other remains silent, and dejected. 

:'''{{#var:418|Jorn (418)}} has posed:''' Jorn wrestles with visions of a large cold water supply and a fire brigade hose. "I'm waiting on some results first. Then we'll bathe you, cloth you and you'll sing like a hungry porg," Jorn says back matter of factly as he waits for the scanners to come back with some answers. 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     "The mind is such a terrible thing to lose, isn't it?" Ellari remarks, smirking and folding her arms. "Arms, legs, even an eye can be replaced with cybernetics, but the mind?" she shakes her head. "Either way, the truth will come out, whether willingly or unwillingly." 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "Going by what I'm seeing, it's going to be unwillingly," Navi observes. "So what exactly is the story with these guys? If this is a 'Shut up, Navi' moment, just say so, and Shut Up Navi will shut up." 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' The one speaking frowns. He clearly doesn't find Jorn's jokes funny. "What results?" he says. When Ellari comments about replacing limbs with cybernetics, he just regards her coolly, showing no emotion. "I'm not a bargaining chip you should displease," he says. "If I lose my mind, you'll get nothing." The other finally looks up, his expression desperate. "No, please! Don't hurt him. We.. we can come to an agreement." "Don't talk about us like we're not here," the first one who'd started speaking says to Navi. "You could just ask." Meanwhile, back at the junkyard, Zetha is likely either finished with working on the drill bit, or will still be laboring away when she'll hear a knock at the door. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde had been helping Zetha with the drill back at the junkyard. The Force does come in handy, when you're dealing with putting a puzzle of some kind back together. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha is just putting the last bits of the drill piece together when she hears the knock at the door. "Be right back." She says to Cayde while standing and moving to the door itself. Like before, she only opens it a crack. Still being very cautious of who is there - because if she has only a split second to see and then slam and lock the door if it's an unwanted person - a peek behind the curtain is better than letting it be wide open. 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     "Well, maybe. Maybe not. Maybe we'll get the truth, and -then- you'll lose your mind. I still haven't decided if it's worth the risk." Ellari replies, shrugging. Then she turns to the one who begged. "An agreement, you say?" 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "I wasn't talking to you. I was talking to /them/," Navi says to the cranky one, leaving it at that. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "Zetha!" The voice is familiar. "I miss you. Are you coming back to convent soon?" She'll immediately recognize the voice, it's Crane. Well, that was hasty. It'd only been a few hours, since he'd last checked in with her. He chuckles. "And if I lose my mind -before- you get the truth?" He looks over at Navi. "What good does that do you? They don't have answers. I do. I'm only here because I -want- to be here." The other licks his lips. He really has nothing to offer Ellari. He's naked, afraid, and alone. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' The door opens a little more as she recognizes Crane's voice. "I already told you. I don't know. I'll have to think on it. Wiis is in -danger-... if you haven't heard. I can't just...leave her..." Zetha's more awake now. Alert. That nap did her some good after all. "Hell for all I know me being at the convent could put the convent in danger. I had my life threatened not so long ago, Crane. I can't put people in danger. I won't." Though she moves out of the way then. "You're welcome to come in though." 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Oh, him again? Cayde rolls his eyes. This two-personas thing was getting rather awkward. What would Zetha think once she learned the truth? Eventually...     He goes back to focusing on putting more pieces of the drill equipment back into each other. 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     "Like I said, it's a risk. But, if it's that or nothing, I don't have much of a choice on chancing it, now do I?" Ellari points out to him. "You want to be here? Well, I'm glad for it, then." 

:'''{{#var:418|Jorn (418)}} has posed:''' Jorn looks toward Ellari, "What should we do with them. I mean we can get some truth serum or something similar to that?" he asks softly and looks back at the pair. 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "Because I don't really care that much. This is a Mandalorian issue. I don't much care who you are, as long as you're locked up here looking stupid and not causing trouble in my jurisdiction. Unless it comes out that you were involved in a crime on this planet, in which case we're going to talk," Navi replies, shrugging at the loud one. She looks to the silent one thoughtfully. "I'd guess he's the one that's only a year old. They only really get willfully obnoxious at three years old... which sort of opens the question about how old the /other/ one is..." 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' The young Tholothian immediately pushes into the room, and embraces Zetha tightly. "I know," he says, "You told me. But if being at the convent puts me in danger, then doesn't that mean that you being -here- puts Wiis in danger? You can't win at this game, Zetha. It doesn't matter where you go, until you finish the task or get someone else to do it, you'll be living in fear." Then he hugs her even tighter. "Or you could just not worry about it. If he hasn't bothered you about it at all since, then maybe he's just forgotten about it. I saw all the marauders go back into the Gorge earlier today, anyway. Clearly they have other more important matters to worry about." Just then, Zetha's communicator buzzes. It's a text transmission from the doctor. <Zetha, I just received word from Thaarin that they found a couple of Mandalorians in the Gorge and he's speculated that they might be strongly connected to 'Jasper.' I'm coming up to Kublop to investigate. Mondrian, Veena, and Thaarin are going to accompany me and we all think you should probably come along as well. I'm going to notify Navi and Cayde as well> Navi and Cayde will then hear their comms buzz, as well. The one doing most of the yapping finally looks at Ellari and Jorn directly. "I want to see the Dark Saber," he suddenly says. "I just want to know that it's real. Then I'll tell you everything." The other one seems to be in disbelief. "...what??" 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     Ellari shrugs at the request and glances over at Jorn. That's his jurisdiction, and she'll let him make that decision on his own.     As for what to do with them... "I don't have any 'truth serum' on hand, other than that...boy, I suppose. The Jedi." 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "Padawan Alexis," Navi supplies to Ellari. Then her comlink buzzes, and she reaches for it. "Yes?" 

:'''{{#var:418|Jorn (418)}} has posed:''' "If the Jedi can scan them. Figure out their story. Why they were stripped. Something, anything," he says openly figuring out that would be a good way to start things. If he didn't need them alive, Jorn would have used two blaster bolts to get rid of a couple of headaches. He leans on Ellari's ship where Ellari, Jorn and their captives currently are amongst others. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha returns the hug, but only briefly, before she steps back again. "He didn't threaten you. Or the convent. He threatened me. And Wiis. So me being here doesn't put her in any more or less danger. And if I'm -here- I can at least do my best to protect her." Zetha says and then scoffs at the other comment he makes. "He can leave the gorge just as easily as any other place. I-I don't..." But then her comm buzzes and she looks down to read it. Then she frowns but she replies <Okay. Let me know where I need to be and when.> She then looks back over at 'Crane'. "But when I say that I don't know and I'll think about it, you can't just come here a few hours later and ask the same question. I don't want to put you or the convent in danger...and danger is just what I might bring if I go back. So I'm going to stay away from the convent for a while. It's for everyone's good." Then she motions. "I need to go make sure Cayde isn't managing to bust his hands or something..." And then she turns to walk back over to the drill they've been putting together. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde notices the commlink going off, and he looks at it. He replies with a simple < Okay >     Then he goes back to working on the drill. They were almost done, anyway. He just needed to hold these last few pieces in awkward places so that Zetha could weld them back. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "Navi," the doctor says, "where are you? I just got word from Thaarin about those Mandalorians who were found in the Gorge. I'm coming to investigate. Please make sure Cayde is around for it, as well. Mondrian, Veena, and Thaarin are going to accompany me as well. I hope you don't mind." "Look," the quieter one finally says, struggling against his bonds. "what don't you understand? We found ourselves lost in the Gorge, and encountered a mad witch. We displeased her somehow, I'm not sure how or why. Then she cursed us by removing all of our clothing and belongings. Why do you want to know that? What good does it do you? You want to search for the witch, and take our belongings as well??? Good luck with that. Good -kriffing- luck!" The one who'd asked about the dark saber once again reiterates his desire to see it. "Let me see it," he barks. "The dark saber! You don't have even have to unbind me. I just want to ... see it. Let me see it!!!" he growls desperately. "..." The young Tholothian man actually looks... hurt? "I'm sorry. What do you need from me right now?" he calls after her. "I thought you liked me. But if you want me to leave you alone, then I'll leave you alone." 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' The ship groans as Volken makes his way into it. It might groan again if Er'gi arrives but it's hard to 'out groan' Volken. Especially if he's in a bad mood and lately...he usually has been. He remoes his helmet for the first time in some while, shaking out his mass of dark hair and then reaching a hand up to drag it across his brickish jaw and the beard that's haphazardly forming in various untrimmed ways...and then he starts towards the others after setting his gigantic repeater cannons down. "Alright.. so we got 'em. So now what? Cowardly one is Kassady. Bold one is Caine except apparently he's only a year old according to the jedi boy. So - explanations? Do we contact Thaelin and get some family history?" As the one he's designated as Caine begins making demands, Volken turns slowly in his direction and asks, "Do you want to punch him? If not sure show it to him but I suggest you back up...over there. Let him get a good distance look at it. He's been obessesed with this thing so something's clearly up." 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha stops in her tracks and turns around to face 'Crane' again. "Don't you dare do that to me. If you're going to kick me when I'm down, then you can surely turn your butt around and go back to the convent and your life of peace and tranquility. I'm knee deep in muck and mire right now I do NOT need another person toying with my feelings or making me feel guilty when I have nothing to be guilty for." She turns then and keeps walking until she's back with Cayde and the drill. "I might need to go meet Doctor Cassias and some others...though I don't know if it'll be sooner or later, but he's heading into Kublop Springs, and I'd like to be at the station to greet him. Do you want to come with?" Asking this to Cayde. 

:'''{{#var:418|Jorn (418)}} has posed:''' Jorn just ignores every request about the Dark Saber. "That's what we're trying to figure out. Why one looks young when it comes to scans, but looks older than that," Jorn looks to the pair for a moment. "Something feels off. I mean, did he create clone decoys?" that's Jorn's theory. It would be a good way to throw people off the trails. Subjects like transfer of conscience seem a little toof ar off for him. "I mean, you know Caine's history, right? You know a bit of it. You know what the scans aren't saying. OR at least, what they're seemingly getting wrong," and that's what makes the gear in Jorn's head going. He's not sure why a scan, so rooted in science, be wrong when it comes to the age. 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     Ellari shrugs at Volken's suggestion of punching. "Do -you- want to punch him?" She arches a brow at the one who seems so desperate to see the Darksaber. "What's the rush?" she asks. "Do you doubt our very history? Or do you doubt that it's here? Why does it matter so much to you?"     She nods to Jorn. "Hmph, that would be consistent with the Jedi's observations, certainly. And I wouldn't put such unorthodox methods past him. So tell me, are you -really- Caine Von'egel? Or just a knock-off copy of him?" 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde nods, putting the partially assembled drill down carefully. [You should know...Zealot will not harm] he tries to assure her. 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "Hello, Volken. I think Cayde went to the junkyard with Zetha, if you're looking for him," Navi says from her perch near the two near-naked prisoners. One of whom could stand a good slap in her opinion... 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Crane shrugs. He doesn't seem upset or angry by Zetha's biting words. "What? Why would I try to make you feel bad for not liking me? I wouldn't blame you if you'd decided to not like me. I don't make close friends easily, and that's not anyone else's problem but my own." "I'm sorry if I hurt you, if you want me to leave you alone, then I will," He says softly, without animosity or malice. "And I think that the co-deputy is right. You won't be harmed. I have a feeling," he says, "that everyone and everything will be alright." Then he offers her a small smile, bows and says, "May the Force be with you, Zetha. I wish you peace, happiness, and serenity." Then he turns to leave. "I don't know," He announces, "I want to see the Dark Saber," he insists again. "And I want -help-." His eyes flash. Navi, Cayde, and Zetha will then get a text transmission from the doctor, notifying them that he and the others are due to arrive in about five to ten minutes, and he'd like to know where he should meet them... 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' "Well he could confirm things but maybe it's best he stays out of his head. Might be contagious, whever's going on in there." observes Volken as he hears Navi. "No, not really." he says towards Ellari at that point. "Was just offering." Volken sets his helmet down and steps forward to get a closer look. "He's -always- been interested in the saber from the sounds of it. Didn't he -steal- it before? Didn't Fett get it back in that mess that led to Revara bein' on Coruscant? I didn't get all the details. Now -this- whole mess with Jorn and over Revara no less? What're we missing here? There has to have been a real Caine... Maybe there still is somewhere... Maybe..." He pauses keeping his next thought to himself and then simply looks to Kassady, "You got more answers then you're letting on here. -Talk- -SIng- Do -somethng- instead of bein' useless so we can sort this nonsense out. " 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha tilts her head at Cayde in a curious manner. [How do you know?] Because being told that the one who held a pistol to your head is not going to harm you is pretty...weird...to her. She's about to say something else to Cayde when she hears Crane speaking again. Closing her eyes she takes in a breath as she hears the next thing Crane says. It hurts, but she doesn't know what to say here. So she doesn't say anything. One more person walking out of her life isn't going to change her current circumstances. When she opens her eyes again, she gives a smile to Cayde that doesn't reach her eyes. Then that communication comes through and she shakes her head before typing into her comm in reply to the doctor <Cayde and I will meet you at the station. We're heading there now.> 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     "Help with -what-?" Ellari asks, arching a brow at him. "You're going to have to be more specific than that."     She gives a Volken a look, smirking slightly at his answer. If he didn't want to do it, why even offer to begin with? But she doesn't push it for now.     "If we're dealing with some kind of clone, then there must be a lab somewhere on Tenoo..." she notes, her gaze going over to Navi. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde watches 'Crane' leave. Perhaps it was for the best. For now, anyway. [The Force is my ally] he replies to Zetha's question rather vaguely. [He will not harm you]     He glances down at the message coming through, reading it but not responding. 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "Those shifty Arkanian scientists at Whatever Bend have a lab close to the Vergence," Navi observes. "If I was going to point a finger at anyone being too interested in cloning around here, it would be them." 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Kasseady bares his teeth at Volken. "I don't have any answers for you!!" He shouts angrily. "What do you want me to say? That I know my brother is here, on Tenoo, hiding out in the inn just across the street!? That would be a cowardly attempt to lie to save my own skin, hut'uun!!" He then slumps against his cuffs. "I don't know anything," he laments. "I wish I did. I came here hoping to restore my reputation in the wake of the wreck he left me in. Now I'm left with less than I came with, which was nothing but the clothes off my back and my armor..." "The only thing I know for certain is that... that person. That ... -thing-. Is not my brother. I can feel it in my blood. He is not agol." The other bound hostage glares at Kass, but offers no words. "Let me see the Dark Saber," he insists again. The doctor then messages both Navi, Cayde, and Zetha. <See you all soon, then?> Hopefully at least Zetha will show at the tram station when the doctor arrives... 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "I'm aboard the Mandalorians' ship, Doctor. They're interrogating the two prisoners. It's been both hilarious and unnerving," Navi replies to the Doctor over the comlink. "Have a safe trip." 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha nods to Cayde. "Well. If you say so...doesn't mean I'm going to immediately drop my guard..." She offers this much and then motions to him. "Come on. It's about a five minute walk to the station from here and we have just about that much time to get there." She then offers him a smile before taking a breath. "And thanks. For the nap, and for sticking around. Your company was appreciated and enjoyed." With that, she heads towards leaving and going to the station, hopefully with Cayde none too far behind her. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde nods. [Any time] he offers, when she thanks for him helping her sleep. He then follows her to the station to meet Soren. 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     Well, at least Kass was smart enough to figure -that-. Ellari nods at Navi. "Well then, I say we take him to said lab, and demand the truth from said Arkanians." Simple as that. And it'd be even simpler with Volken around. "If they're working for the -real- Caine, then it's as good a lead as any on finding him." 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' Kassady admitting that aloud...seems to have done what Volken was hoping for. He nods his head and straightens back up and steps away from him to then turn towards the others. "Alright." he rumbles. "And I changed my mind. Don't let him see the Dark Saber. This thing is probably booby trapped or something. MIght turn into some sort of winged fire breathing monster once he lays eyes on it... But we at leas tknow that there -is- a Caine which is what I was worried about but fine. One conspiracy down, twenty to go." He then turns and gestures at Kassady, "We should give him a chance to earn his honor back and find out what happened to his brother." He turns towards Kassady, "You got that? YOu're not gonna go callin' home and tryin' to go tell on us ...are ya? You wanna know what happened to your brother as much as we, right?" 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' <I'll meet you there, then> The doctor notifies Navi. Moments, later he's stepping off the tram, and he sees Zetha and Cayde approaching. His gaze flicks from one to another. "How are you two holding up?" he asks softly, reaching over to pat Cayde on the shoulder gently. Thaarin, Veena, and Mondrian are tailing him, but he gestures for them to go on ahead. "Navi's at Ellari's ship," he says, "I'll catch up with you all there in a bit," he says. Thaarin kindly greets Zetha and Cayde before he's hurried off by Mondrian and Veena, who just give the young padawan cold looks. The one insisting to see the Dark Saber goes silent, but his expressions hardens and becomes angry and weirdly distant. Something is definitely off with him. Kasseady scoffs at Volken. "And how the hell would I go about doing that? I have no armor, no clothing, and I can't even be certain my own ship is where I left it." 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha smiles at Soren and inclines her head to him. "Doing better." She offers this and then gives a little smile and wave at Thaarin just before he's rushed off with the other two. Though she notes that cold stare given to Cayde and raises a brow before shaking her head. "I mean, aside from upsetting 'Crane' because I can't seem to be able to go a week without pissing someone off." She shrugs it off though. "Anyway and besides, what do you need? How can I help?" 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     [I am okay] Cayde replies to Soren's question, again rather vaguely as he often does. The cold glares from the detectives don't come as a surprise to him. 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     Ellari rolls her eyes, not approving of giving Kass this 'chance'. She scoffs. "What reputation? What honor? You had none to begin with."     "We should take him to these scientists and force them to come clean." 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' "I dunno how but I still had to ask so you can't say I didn't. Yer ship's fine .. aside from the dent i put into it when I punched it. Should still be space worthy though. I pulled my punch... We'll get you some clothes so you got some dignigty and figure out your armor later. We can't have that just wanderin' around to fall into non Mandalorian hands but first you help figure out whose after the Dark Saber and maybe they'll stop laughin' you right out of Sundari for your part in all of this..." He waves a hand, dismissively. Negotations, such as they were, are over. "Pretty much." he then says to Ellari, "One more body on our side i case things go wrong. one more person to get shot at, eh?" 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' The doctor sighs. He seems rather dissatisfied with Cayde's response. "We're going to talk later," he says to Cayde. Then he turns to Zetha. "Zetha, this isn't the time to be pretending. We're past the point of facades, remember? I know there's important work to be done but none of us can afford for you to not be mentally and emotionally ready for it. What happened with Crane? What is he upset at you for?" He continues walking, heading in the general direction of the starport, where the Amber Clad is stationed. "You -dented- my ship!?" Kasseady lets out a string of unrepeatable Mando'a curses out loud. "After this is all over, you're going to pay for all this. I'll make you regret the day you were born!" 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "If it were a facade, I would be telling you everything is fine and there's nothing to worry about. Crane wants me back at the convent. I told him I would think about it. Then he asked again. So I told him that I had to protect Wiis, and I didn't want to put the convent in danger. And then he made some remark about how if I don't like him and want him out of my life then he'll leave." Zetha shrugs then. There's more to it, but she can put it aside. It's not important. Surely not as important as the state Crane will be in mentally if she ever finds out the whole truth about him being Zealot. "Anyway. He also acted kinda weird and like...he didn't have any concern that my life was threatened. Which is weird to me. But that's something for future me to worry on. Present me is ready for whatever you need me for." 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     [Okay] Cayde replies, although his expression is downcast. Not that he really -looks- upset, but he certainly doesn't look happy, either. But he almost always looks something like this. When Zetha mentions Crane's behavior was odd, he just looks away. 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' "It was only a little dent." protests Volken, not sounding worried in the slightest. "You know. Just a bit bigger then my fist. It gives the ship character." 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     Ellari just rolls her eyes even harder at this. "Do you see now what I meant by 'what honor'?" she asks, glancing at Volken. "The hut'uun had none to begin with, anyway." 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "Zetha," Soren says frankly. "Respectfully, you cannot protect Wiis. I cannot protect Wiis. That's Cayde, Navi and the other Jedis' job. And I don't want you to try to. You'll get hurt, and so will Wiis." He shakes his head at Zetha. "I am going to be honest, I don't find that terribly unusual. Jedha is full of pious sorts who dedicate themselves to studying and worshipping the light side of the Force. He probably said something about the will of the Force being what it is, didn't he? It's... typical. They believe in some greater purpose, and that everything that happens is just supposed to happen, and we should accept our fates. The Jedi are a perfect example of this. You're not likely going to find them showing any kind of exaggerated emotion, ever. Even if some planet is on the verge of imploding and billions of lives are at stake." He suddenly looks weary, and glances over at Cayde briefly. Then the look is gone. "It doesn't mean that he doesn't care. And if you still care about him, then you should tell him." He pauses. "Don't wait, Zetha. For the love of light and all that's good, don't wait to tell the people you love that you love them. You might not have tomorrow." At that moment, Thaarin, Mondrian and Veena arrive at the Amber Clad. The tall blue alien flashes a charming smile at Ellari and waves. "I think we've found ourselves unlikely allies," he says to her, "the doctor has come up from the colony to help examine and discuss that rather interesting hostage you're keeping aboard your ship. We could find a time a chat, and soon, I should hope." 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha's not dumb. She notices how Cayde looks away when she brought up Crane's behavior. Adding that to the fact that Cayde told her Zealot wasn't going to harm her. Sure Cayde had promised he'd protect her but... "Cayde? What is it? Do you know something?" Because she's gotten to know Cayde a bit, and this is definitely Cayde's I know something but I'm not saying anything look. "I..." There's a pause and then she slumps almost dejectedly. "I have to keep her safe. I have to make sure Zealot doesn't just show up randomly and wind up killing her if I'm not there because he's upset with me. I can protect her that much." She then gives a look to Soren when he talks about Crane and then shakes her head. "Alright. I get it. But something still felt odd about it. I do like him though, he's a great guy. And I think it's more they don't outwardly show their emotions. The Crane I talk to in person can be a lot different than the one I text on occassion." She chuckles at that and then shrugs. "I'm not putting my personal issues in front of a very real and active situation. I'll resolve it, I always wind up doing so. Now will you please tell me what we're doing?" 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     [...know something what] Cayde asks, trying to give the impression that he doesn't know what she's talking about. However, his expression has not changed. He isn't sure if telling her the truth would make matters better or worse quite yet. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "If Zealot wanted to kill Wiis, there wouldn't be anything you could personally do to stop him. If he was going to kill her because he's upset with you, I doubt there'd be much you could do to dissuade him from doing so at that point. But I don't feel like I need to be telling you this, you know it, deep down. You just hate the idea of not being able to protect her from a situation that you perceive as being created by you." "What happened, happened. There was a fundamental disagreement about what was right and what was wrong, and even I myself am not sure entirely what the right decision was. Either way, you can't change the past, so don't rue over events that can't be changed. Learn from the past, keep moving forward, that's all." He then waves a hand dismissively at Zetha. "You are," he says, "because I am telling you as your therapist that you need to. You need to sort this out before you do anything else. Go find Crane, talk to him. Tell him how you really feel, even if you aren't entirely sure how to say it. You still need to try, the effort is what matters." He then starts heading for the starport. "I'll brief you later on my findings. I'm going to stay the night, and perhaps the next so there will be plenty of time to discuss next steps regarding the Mandalorians." He then looks to Cayde. "Let's go," he says, "we should go meet up with the others. And you, Navi, Zetha, and I are all going to sit down and have a talk later, too. There's that as well." 
}}

A First Date

2025-11-05T22:07:48Z

Andromeda:

{{Log Header
|Date of Scene=2025-11-01
|Cast of Characters=195, 444
|pretty=yes
|Location=Kublop Springs - Tenoo - Outer Rim
|Synopsis=Zetha goes on her first actual date. It's quite nice.
}}
{{Poses
|Poses=:'''{{#var:195|Amarik (195)}} has posed:''' It might have been as short as half an hour, or as long a couple, depending on how much convincing the doctor had had to do in order to get Zetha to leave the business about the Mandalorians well enough alone until she could take care of her personal matters. He would have told her, too, that there was little to be done on that front yet anyway, the Mandalorians weren't exactly playing friendly and he'd yet to confirm that Thaarin was going to be allowed to bring him along to study the strange 'Jasper' duplicate. And the doctor was adamant that Zetha not talk to him, or the other Mandalorian, until he'd done a psych eval on both of them. So Zetha doesn't have much else to do in the meantime, unless she wants to go back to the junkyard and obsess over the drill bit, which has been already been reassembled... 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha had resigned to go talk to Crane with much pushing from Soren. Truth of the matter was, she didn't like that she had inevitably pushed 'Crane' away but at the same time, she felt like her own feelings on the matter weren't taken into consideration. None the less, she leaves Soren to do whatever it is Soren does and makes her way to the convent. Of course, she has no idea where Crane is. Right there in the open entrance, in his room, in the inner sanctum. But she'll go looking for him never the less. 

:'''{{#var:195|Amarik (195)}} has posed:''' She'll bump into him as she's making her way towards his room in the convent. She might not know how to feel when it immediately becomes apparently that he's packed up, and is carrying a small backpack. He looks like he's going somewhere that isn't here... permanently. Regardless, when she appears in the hallway, he seems happy to see her. Those electric indigo eyes light up, and there's zero trace of any bitterness or resentment towards her, despite how she'd treated him earlier. "I was going to ask the other convent members to make sure you knew I'd left this for you," he says, holding out that romance holobook she'd mentioned was her favorite. "But now, since you're here, I can just give it to you. I know you like it." 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' There's a blink as she sees how he's packed up, that small backpack, and when he offers her that holobook...she takes it hesitantly. "..Thanks..but.." She looks past him to his room and then back to him. "Are you going somewhere? I...I wanted to talk to you. I wanted to apologize for how I snapped at you back at the junkyard. And..." A part of her feels like this is now pointless. But she pushes past that and musters up the courage to continue. "Crane. Things have been a whirlwind and often I find myself landing on only one foot and stumbling. But you've always been a rock that I can steady myself with. And that means so much to me. I -do- like you..." She stops there though, like working through things she wants to say before saying them so she doesn't mess something else up. 

:'''{{#var:195|Amarik (195)}} has posed:''' The young Tholothian man looks really confused. "Oh," he says, "that's alright, I wasn't angry at you." He pauses. "Well, to be honest, I thought I didn't really have a reason to stay here. Since it seemed like you didn't want to see me anymore, and Navi and Cayde will visit Jedha plenty..." he trails off. But when she says she likes him, he smiles faintly. "Thank you," he says, "I'm flattered. Should I stay, then?" 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "You don't have to be angry for something to have still been wrong. I was wrong. This thing with Zealot and what he's asked me to do has got me frazzled...but when I found out that it would benefit others...and we changed the gameplan a little bit. I'm still terrified Zealot's going to think I'm wasting time or...whatever...but everyone is right. I can't let that fear control what I do..." Then she lets out a light laugh. "I'm rambling again. Sorry. It's really just me trying to sort out my thoughts." Then she smiles. "Would you please stay? I would like that. I really would. Cause I'd like to still see you, talk, rant about crappy romance writing...I mean...if you really want to stay and keep hanging out with a whirlwind of a person like myself." 

:'''{{#var:195|Amarik (195)}} has posed:''' "Okay," he says, and immediately puts down the bag. Perhaps it will occur to her that it seems that the only reason he's here at all is... her. He sits down on the small futon in the hallway, and offering her a faint smile and patting the spot on it next to him, inviting her to sit down. "Don't be afraid, Zetha. Even if you are wasting his time, it doesn't matter. What can he do to you, that the Jedi won't be able to protect you from? I'm sorry that had to happen to you, and I'm sorry you were terrified. But he's just as afraid of the Jedi, as you are of him. Who wouldn't be? Your friends are powerful, Zetha. No harm is going to befall you, or Wiis. The co deputies won't let it happen, I'm certain of it." "I like you, too," he offers randomly. "But I fear I've only been a mediocre friend to you, and I don't want that. I want to be more than that." 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha's smile doesn't fade, and in fact likely brightens a little as he sets his bag down. The whole matter of factly, she asked, he obliged, is likely something she will have to get used to. When he sits, and offers her a seat beside, she takes it and listens to what he says. "I know. I need to trust that. I'm still..learning? How to trust that. But Cayde and Navi have done many things to help protect Wiis and I. And I need to trust that will continue." She offers this. "It's just...it was me and Wiis only for a long time. Seventeen years is a long time to only exist in the junkyard. Wiis usually ran most the errands and I worked on orders or just making things work again around the yard. So it's hard letting go of that feeling that protecting Wiis is on me and me alone." Even saying that out loud is likely a big step for Zetha. Though with the last bit of what he says, she actually blushes. "You have been more than a mediocre friend. You're someone I can trust. You've done a lot for me whether you know it or not. So keep being that...and maybe even more...e-eventually...of course..." There's a pause. "I'm glad you like me too. This would be a weird friendship if you didn't..." 

:'''{{#var:195|Amarik (195)}} has posed:''' "You can't be blamed," he says, "everything you've said is true, but there's also the fact that everyone else around here just doesn't seem to believe that Cayde can carry his half of the job and help protect you if you need it," he says. "You've seen how Navi, Thaarin, and even the doctor treat him. They treat him like he's a child. And maybe he is, and maybe he does mess up a lot, but did anyone ever consider that perhaps it's because they don't believe in him? They don't believe he's capable of not ruining whatever he touches. Imagine if everyone believed that about you. It wouldn't be fair, would it?" He seems intrigued and puzzled when she says they that could maybe be even more. "What do you mean?" he asks. "I want to know how I can be more than the friend I'm being now." 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha nods. "I think I maybe got that habit too. Cayde means well, and he tries so hard. I can see that he does. Gods I kinda see myself in him sometimes. I've been meaning to be able to talk to him, like without anyone else around. Because I think he acts a little differently when he's got anyone else watching his every move. But I'd like to just have a conversation with him. Let -him- express how he feels - though I think he has a hard time with that too." She offers this and then nods. "You're right. If the tables were turned, it truly wouldn't be fair. I think people need to be reminded of that. A person can't grow if they're being put down all the time." When he asks about what she means, Zetha actually blushes. "Well hanging out like this helps. Just being able to sit and talk. But I'd like to get to know you more. Maybe...and this is so not how it works in When Stars Collide but...maybe go out? Like on your boat, but this time not with any needed destination in mind. We could enjoy the water and time together. Hopefully without any interruption." Zetha. Can you not just say 'go on a date'? 

:'''{{#var:195|Amarik (195)}} has posed:''' "Yeah," he says, "I think that would be really good for him. And you," he says. "And reminding people would be good, too. I think that would mean a lot to him, if you stood up for him, once or twice, or even better, multiple times." Zetha may be happy to find that this seems to please him, greatly. He nods vigorously, his eyes light up, and he smiles broadly at her. He'd never done that before, and she might find herself realizing that he's even prettier when he's excited like this. He stands up, and starts hurrying towards the exit of the convent. "If we don't get to the dock in the next ten minutes, we'll miss the sunset!" 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "You're right. If anyone has been a mediocre friend to anyone it's me to Cayde. But you're right and I'll do that. Not only because you said it but because I agree and it needs to be done." Zetha offers this much and then lets the matter rest. If only because Crane is suddenly really excited. That smile alone tugs at her more than she maybe realized it would. Then he's standing and hurrying to leave! "Well wait a moment and at least let me follow you!" This said with laughter and joy in the words as she stands and hurries to follow him. 

:'''{{#var:195|Amarik (195)}} has posed:''' "No!" he says playfully, now full on running. "You're too slow!" But it's not like Zetha doesn't know where the docks are, it's just highly likely that he's gonna get there a full two or three minutes before she does. He'll already be on the boat when she arrives, but as luck would have it, the fuel reservoir is empty, and he'll still be filling it when she arrives. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "You're such a jerk!" Zetha calls back just as playfully while trying to keep up. It doesn't work. She's a couple minutes behind but then spies him filling the fuel resivoir. This at least allows her to catch her breath for a moment. "While we're on the subject of friendly things...I do want to make sure I know your boundaries. I know you like your privacy and I'm hopefully doing better at respecting that. But like now while we're here and hanging out and such... is NOW - or at least when you're done filling the tank - an okay time to hug you?" 

:'''{{#var:195|Amarik (195)}} has posed:''' He doesn't actually say anything when she asks about his boundaries, but there's a playful twinkle in his eyes when he looks over at her while filling the reservoir. Once he finishes, he'll shrug off his outer layer, revealing the sleeveless shirt he's wearing underneath and the very faint scar on his upper arm. Zetha might have recalled that one time he'd clearly been injured, somehow. But before she can say anything else, he wraps an arm around her waist while tossing the rope securing the boat to the pier post onto the dock. He smiles. "This is fine," he says. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha won't ask about the scar. Maybe sometime in the future, but not now. It may dampen the moment and she doesn't want that. Instead she'll watch as he finishes filling the tank and tosses that securing rope onto the dock. When he moves to wrap an arm around her, she'll shift and lean her head onto his shoulder. Shoulder? Arm? Wherever her head can rest depending on height difference. "Yeah. This is great." Letting them stay that way for a moment. "So. You know a good place to watch the sun set, eh?" 

:'''{{#var:195|Amarik (195)}} has posed:''' "Of course I do," he says, "I come out here on a weekly basis to see it. It's wonderful. Have you ever visited the pools on top of the trees?" he asks. "The best view is from up there." The boat will then jolt as it hits the current, and away they go. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "We might have to make this a regular occurence then. That I join you sometimes. If you wish." Zetha offers and then gives a shake of her head. "No. I don't regularly come to the woods..." And this is likely a huge step considering what happened the last time. "Well if we can make it, I can't wait to see it... but I think the view will be wonderful anywhere because we're sharing it together." 

:'''{{#var:195|Amarik (195)}} has posed:''' "I would like that," he says immediately, "you can come with me anytime you want," he says with a smile. He laughs. "We'll make it, don't worry." He seems flattered and embarrassed when she says it will be wonderful anywhere because they're sharing it together. "You're too kind," he says, averting his gaze bashfully. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "Careful. I may come so much you'll actually get sick of me being around!" Zetha says jokingly and then watches the scenery as it goes by while the boat travels along. "Just being honest." She says then which rolls right into her commenting, "We hang out enough times people might think we're dating." 

:'''{{#var:195|Amarik (195)}} has posed:''' "I won't," he reassures her. When she comments about them hanging out enough that people might thing they're dating, he shrugs. "So?" he says nonchalantly. "Is that a bad thing?" 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' And there it is. But is he asking because he -wants- them to be dating or just doesn't care what other people think. "Honestly, I don't think so. In truth...I guess it's more if someone like Navi, Cayde or even Doctor Cassias asks. What would we tell them? Which answer would be the truth?" 

:'''{{#var:195|Amarik (195)}} has posed:''' He suddenly stops piloting the boat, and he frowns. He seems pensive but also confused. "I don't know," he says. "What do you want?" 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "Maybe to give it some time. We like each other which is a start. I'm open to the possibility that this may turn into us dating. Which likely sounds like deflection...but I'm still working out some things. And I don't want to just jump into something. Time. Potential. People can think what they want. What matter is that we're on the same page." Zetha offers, feeling the little mood shift that she was hoping wouldn't happen. 

:'''{{#var:195|Amarik (195)}} has posed:''' "You want to... date me? Or no, you don't?" he says, incredulous. For some reason, this seems to be news to him. There's a pregnant pause, and he goes back to steering the boat, but his expression is pensive. "...right. It doesn't matter what other people think, it just matters what you want, and what we know to be true." 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "I do." Zetha says it firmly. Or she thinks she does. "But it's very new territory for me. To date anyone. To feel like I'm ready to date someone. It may not seem like it right now, but this whole conversation is terrifying for me to have. Cause it puts a bit on the line. But if you're open to the potential.." His other statement comes and she nods. "Yes. Just that." And then she tries to turn it all around again. "So. Sunset?" 

:'''{{#var:195|Amarik (195)}} has posed:''' "Oh," he says. He seems surprised. -Very- surprised, and speechless. "...I'm flattered. But I had no idea you wanted to date me," he says, "and I'm sorry, but I just don't --" But then suddenly, the boat dips, and there's some turbulence. His attention is diverted back to piloting, and he says, "We're about to go over the falls --" He pushes the repulsorlifts to max capacity, and then suddenly, they're nosediving at a 45 degree angle! 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' And there it is again. Zetha's mind can fill in the rest of what was going to come after 'just dont'. Not that she has any time to actually fill in the blank even mentally as the boat jerks and then they're going over the falls. She just grabs onto the nearest not-Crane object she might be able to grab onto so she doesn't go flying out of the boat herself. 

:'''{{#var:195|Amarik (195)}} has posed:''' Thankfully, the nosedive doesn't last for long. Before Zetha knows it, she's drenched and they're in a gorgeous, reflective pool of water on top of those massive flat topped trees that Tenoo is so famous for. The setting is serene, romantic - and the reflection of the sunset in the still water is gorgeous. Crane is up top, raising the sails so the boat slows its pace. Once he's finished, he looks down at her, offering her a faint smile, as he climbs down the mast to join her on the deck. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha smiles and then dips her head. "Look. I understand if you don't want to date me. Just...please don't stop being my friend. That's all I ask. That's probably more of what I need now than anything. Friends. So..." But the view is incredible in that sort of take your breath away kind of thing. If friends can enjoy this, then maybe things won't be so bad after all. "This view is incredible, and look how the water reflects the colors. It's absolutely gorgeous." 

:'''{{#var:195|Amarik (195)}} has posed:''' He doesn't say anything at first, but when she tries to change the subject and talk about the sunset, he doesn't look over at it. He's just looking at her. "Zetha," he says, "I want you to tell me how you really feel." "And be honest, please." 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' She actually frowns a little, and turns her attention to the sun while it slowly dips below the horizon. "I like you. A lot. I find myself smiling every time you message me. Those cute little additions to them that I still don't quite understand. You've been there for me for a lot, and you showed me a kindness even from the first moment we met at the convent. The fact that you've actually taken time to make sure I'm okay. That you miss me, and I miss you, when it's been a while since we've seen eachother." There's a pause as she looks over at him. Her own purple gaze sparkling with the fading sun. "You need to know that I am still working out some things with myself. Mentally and emotionally. So I can't, and won't, put anymore to it than that. I'm open to seeing if it could be more. That's how I feel." 

:'''{{#var:195|Amarik (195)}} has posed:''' His bemusement grows. "But what does that all mean?" he asks, his brows furrowing. "I meant, what are you feeling right now? You seem disappointed..." He goes to intertwine his fingers with hers, but still doesn't look over at the sunset. He's still watching her. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "I am. A little. Right before we went over the falls you were saying something. I said I wanted to date you and you apologized and said you just don't..." Zetha offers and then gives a chuckle. "I figured it was something like you don't see yourself dating right now. Or you just don't see me that way. Either of them are fine, of course. It's not the first time something similar has been said to me." This is when she looks to him. "Which is why I said...why I asked...that you don't stop being my friend. That this doesn't hurt anything between us. But it's just that whenever I feel like I've managed to maybe figure something out about feelings and friendship and relationships...I find that I might just be wrong. Which is on me. And that's okay." 

:'''{{#var:195|Amarik (195)}} has posed:''' He doesn't say anything. Instead, he reaches forward and lets the back of his hand trace her lekku, very gently, while he maintains eye contact. He then reaches into Zetha's mind, hoping to discern just how disappointed she was, or if he'd hurt her more than she was letting on... 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' That hand against her lekku has her giving a soft smile. Though their eyes are meeting, she's maybe searching into his for something. Hopefully acceptance, at the very least, that he's satisfied with her answer. As he reaches into her mind, the truth is apparent. The hurt stems from the fact that it's been done before. So she's honest that she's only a little disappointed between them, but there's a pain that does go a bit deeper. It's likely something she'll be talking to Doctor Cassias about sometime soon. Tell the people you love that you love them. But love - to Zetha - isn't as sectioned out as it should be. 

:'''{{#var:195|Amarik (195)}} has posed:''' For a moment, he just stands there, not knowing what to say or do. His brows furrow slightly, and if Zetha had to guess, it's a pensive look, like he's trying to figure out what he should say or do next. Maybe a minute elapses, or perhaps a few seconds. But what comes next will probably surprise Zetha. He leans towards her, hesitantly at first, but then attempts to kiss her. It's fumbling, awkward, but sincere... 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha watches him for the seconds or even minute that he's seeming to...think on things. Really think. She's not even sure if she should break the tension by saying something or just see what happens. A thought that goes overboard when she finds him leaning in and he's kissing her. Sure it's awkward and fumbly...but what first kisses aren't. Her response? She accepts the first attempt and likely adjusts just enough so that there can be a second one just after. A little less fumbly, maybe similarly awkward, but definitely just as sincere as the first. Her eyes close and everything! 

:'''{{#var:195|Amarik (195)}} has posed:''' After his first attempt, he seems embarrassed. "Sorry," he says, "that was bad, let me try again--" But then she just interrupts him by kissing him a second time. He'll be just as accepting of it as she was of the first one, as he wraps his arms around her shoulders and pulls her in close. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' That second kiss doesn't linger for too terribly long, breaking off gently from it as he pulls her close. Zetha wraps her arms around him in return and holds close to him as well. "Second one wasn't too bad, I don't think." She whispers since she's so close to him. Now this is the awkward moment where she doesn't want to hang on for too long, but also not to pull away too soon. But she does, eventually, shift to pull away just so and one hand drifts back to intwine fingers with his own again. "So. Is this when I get to turn the tables on you and ask how you're feeling right now. And to be honest with me?" She grins. "Seems only fair." 

:'''{{#var:195|Amarik (195)}} has posed:''' Again, he doesn't say anything for a few moments. He just stares into space, brows furrowed. He seems overwhelmed, but isn't voicing it. At least not yet, anyway. Finally, he says, "I was going to say, I just don't know how." There's another pregnant pause. "I've never had anyone want to date me, and like me, too. The first girl who kissed me, well, I'm pretty sure she hates me now." "I don't want to accidentally hurt you. I just want you to be happy. What I want outside of that doesn't matter that much--" 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "If it makes you feel any better, the first kiss I ever had was with the same Mandalorian I now need to infiltrate and cooerce into taking me to his labratory...so..." Zetha gives a grin and then a shrug. "I am happy. Happier than I've been in the past. And I need you to know and understand that I am still working on various parts of myself. I'm not perfect, but no one is. And this...one step at a time. Because that's all we can really ever take. We'll stumble together, I'm sure, but...I'm excited to see where it goes..." She then shifts to rest her head on his chest a moment. "As far as first dates go...this is high up on the list." 

:'''{{#var:195|Amarik (195)}} has posed:''' "Okay," he says, although he sounds a little uncertain. But then after she moves to rest her head on his chest, he says more confidently, "Right. That's good." He awkwardly places an arm around her shoulder, and has to readjust after a moment to make the placement of his arm less uncomfortable. Eventually, he sits down, letting her lean on him as he finally turns to watch the sunset. "I'm glad you're happy," he says softly. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha shifts to sit with him, lean on him, and she actually takes in a breath and lets it out just before relaxing against him a bit more. "Well. You're happy too right? I mean...you're like the other half of all this so things you want or think or feel are going to matter. And we've kinda only focused on how -I- feel." She offers this, still tucked close, and just trying to have a conversation. "That is a really pretty sunset though." Says the roller coaster of emotional wonders. 

:'''{{#var:195|Amarik (195)}} has posed:''' He pauses, frowning pensively for a moment. "...yes." Then, more confidently, "Yes." He gets up, reaches into the water and pulls up a lotus flower and sticks it in her lekku. "It is," he says, then kisses her cheek. "But not as pretty as you." 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' The first time he sort of had to correct his reply, Zetha could over look it. The fact that he's done it a few times now has her worried. "Are you alright? You seem like you're unsure of things...." Like, she doesn't want this to be happening simply because it would make her happy. She can become happy again after being disappointed. But questioning him seems rude after everything. "Crane I need you to be honest with yourself and me. Is this something you truly want?" 

:'''{{#var:195|Amarik (195)}} has posed:''' "I think so," he says, but this time he doesn't hesitate. "All I know is that right now, this is nice. What I had in the past, wasn't. Will it stay that way? Probably. But only mystics can discern what the future is through the Force, and even they cannot always be certain and are often called kooks." He sits down next to her again, and rests his head on her shoulder this time, watching for the rest of the few minutes before the sun dips below the horizon. Then he gets up and goes over to the yoke of the boat and pilots them into a small side channel that will take them back to Kublop. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha nods. That's enough for her and the lack of hesitation makes her feel better. The moment that they spend together watching the sunset is nice and then he's getting up and taking them back to Kublop. The smile on Zetha's face doesn't fade at all, and she overall seems happier than she's been in the last several days if not weeks. "I've got a few projects going on at the junkyard. I only say that because I can get really into the work and then wind up passing out there. But I think I could come back to the convent if you really miss me that much." 

:'''{{#var:195|Amarik (195)}} has posed:''' He nods. "It's okay," he says, "it would be nice if you came back, but you don't have to if you feel like you need to stay at the junkyard for Wiis," he says. Once they arrive back at the docks, it's half past eleven. He walks with her until they're off the pier, then hesitates, not sure if she'll go with him back to the convent, or head back to the junkyard. "... should I kiss you goodnight?" he asks awkwardly. "Sorry--" 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha will likely come back to the convent. She misses it. It's closer to some of her favorite places and people. As they arrive back to the docks and he walks her to the end of the pier she'll glance to him and then gives a little blush. "Why are you sorry? I figured I'd at least come spend the night with you at the convent. So you can kiss me goodnight there before we sleep in our respective corners." 

:'''{{#var:195|Amarik (195)}} has posed:''' "Ah, it sounded stupid after I asked," he admits, averting his gaze, looking embarrassed. He nods, and then takes her hand as they walk back to the convent together. 
}}

A Drill Puzzle

2025-11-05T22:06:59Z

Andromeda:

{{Log Header
|Date of Scene=2025-10-25
|Cast of Characters=159, 444, 143, 261
|pretty=yes
|Location=Kublop Springs - Tenoo - Outer Rim
|Synopsis=Zetha, Cayde, and Thaarin continue to work on reassembling evidence.
}}
{{Poses
|Poses=:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' It's a sunny and quiet afternoon at the junkyard, and with all that has transpired in the past few days, both Wiis and probably Zetha are perhaps on edge. The Mandalorians had been found, and the marauders, that very same day, had vanished from the streets and retreated back into the Gorge. So things have settled down and are back to being peaceful -- perhaps -too- peaceful. Either way, neither of them will be surprised when Thaarin comes knocking, after all he'd promised to check in about the drill, which is what had prompted his visit to the junkyard that first time he'd come... 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha is the one who comes to answer the door. Though she only opens it a crack at first until she sees it's only Thaarin who has arrived. Not surprising, but it's a welcomed sight compared to who else could be standing there... The door finally opens more wide and Zetha offers a kind smile but it doesn't reach her eyes. "Thaarin. Welcome. I didn't expect you to come so soon but...please. Come in. How are you?" 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Actually, Thaarin isn't the only one who has arrived. Cayde is with him, standing to the right and slightly behind him. He nods politely when Zetha opens the door, although he doesn't actually look genuinely happy. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' The tall blue skinned man nods and smiles faintly, but there's a weariness about him, although that wouldn't have surprised Zetha at all, he's looked tired ever since the Mandalorians had arrived. "I'm alright," he says, ducking to enter their humble abode, "What about yourself?" He steps aside to allow Cayde to come in as well. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "I'm fi--" Zetha begins, but then she shakes her head. "I've been better. Honestly. But we're all still alive so that has to count for something." She still jerks sometimes at sudden noises, bumps in the night, but that's nothing she'll outright share. Her gaze shifts to Cayde and she offers him a faltered smile when she sees he's none too happy. "Hey Cayde. How are you?" She figures she knows the answer but might as well see how he answers. Walking further in then, she speaks further. "You mentioned coming by about the drill? I'm afraid there hasn't been any time for me to try and put it back together as I had hoped. But...was there a question about it you had?" 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     [I am okay] Cayde signs to Zetha in reply, coming in after Thaarin. Right, the drill. They'd been looking for evidence. -Actionable- evidence...before all this. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' He gives the young Twi'lek a compassionate look. "I'm sorry," He says, "and well, that's understandable," he continues, "it's alright. You're free now, right? Perhaps we could work on it? If you don't mind?" Then he glances around, probably looking for Wiis. "Perhaps Wiis could assist as well?" 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' Navi had awakened late after the events of the previous day, and had been playing catch-up all day since. Consequently, she arrives at the junkyard a few minutes behind Cayde and Thaarin; luckily, she'd spent the night in Kublop Springs, so she didn't have to deal with the hours-long tram ride from Whatever Bend. "Sorry I'm late," she says softly to those assembled at the door as she jogs into the dooryard of the junkyard, with a quick hug for each of them. Zetha gets a slightly longer one; Navi knows a vulnerable soul when she sees one. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' What else could Zetha say except that it's fine? Cause it's not fine. She's terrified on the inside, but she can't express that to just anyone. Especially not a group of people. "I am free now, yes. So we could....." Then there's suddenly a Navi and she's getting a hug - which she returns. She also - almost - breaks ... but manages to hold firm. "Uhm. No. No I'm letting Wiis rest a bit." Which is Zetha's excuse for not wanting Wiis to be out in any sort of open if she could prevent it. Keep her in places where sniper fire has less chance to hit her. Then she takes a breath. "Come on. The drill is...likely precisely where you left it." 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde frowns, seeing that Zetha is rather distressed...scared, even.     [I will protect you] he tries to assure her. [And Wiis] he adds. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Thaarin nods in greeting at Navi, then turns to Zetha. "Look... this could take your mind off of things a bit," he says softly, soothingly. "And you can talk to us. You know that, right?" His scarlet eyed gaze levels with hers. He nods when she says Wiis is resting, and then starts following Zetha. 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "That's good. I think that's the first thing I've heard about that's actually where it's supposed to be since I took this job," Navi observes. "As for Wiis, I'm glad she's okay. No need to wake her." 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha looks to Cayde, and it's in her eyes. Her true emotions will always be in her eyes no matter how else she tries to bury them. "I know you'll try. Cayde. And that's all I can ask..." But Cayde doesn't know what happened. And this isn't the Zetha Show. They came here for a purpose and she's not going to cause them to stray from that. She then looks to Thaarin and gives a nod of her head. "I know I can...and I presume we're safe enough here to talk about it. I don't think there's any probes or whatever recording us. I just...I'm still getting used to being open with people. Like really open. If that makes sense." Zealot did just land, threaten and then take off again. Navi gets a nod, but nothing more. And then she leads them to the main opening of the junkyard where that cart still sits with the drill pieces atop it. "Right then..." 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Try? [But I will] Cayde insists, looking determined. He frowns. What had happened? Well he knew about a few things, but there was something else. He follows her over to where the drill pieces are still laying on the cart. 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "It does. It makes a lot of sense," Navi replies sympathetically. She hovers near Zetha's elbow as the Twi'lek girl leads everyone to the remains of the drill. "Has something happened since the last time we were here?" she asks, gently. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "Yes," Thaarin says softly in response to Navi, his expression growing wearier for brief moment. "One step at a time," he tells Zetha. "Would you like to tell us more about what it is exactly that you agreed to do? For the marauders? Regarding the Mandalorians..." He then sits down across from the drill bit pieces, and then starts picking up pieces that look like they could go together. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "Not all the marauders. Just one." Zetha says. "And not all the Mandalorians. Just one." As if that makes a difference. "Zealot came here one night. Actually...it was the night you had come to work on the ship, Thaarin, and then you almost passed out so I sent you into the house. As I was getting back to the ship...Zealot came. Landed in front of me. Pointed a blaster at my head. Made a thing about how he had the cortosis back, and he's upset because he apparently helped work out the deal that Wiis had made..." She begins... She picks up a few pieces of the drill as well, actually somehow fitting them together and perhaps trying to work out how to bind them. "He threatened me. He wants me to seduce the Mandalorian I know as Jasper. Because Jasper's got some lab somewhere and he wanted me to seduce Jasper, which would make him trust me enough to show me the lab. Put a probe in the lab.... because of...something going on that isn't good." That's all she says for now. Except she adds, "When I asked him what would happen if I refused...that's when he pointed a sniper rifle into Wiis' room...and...I..." Okay. THIS Is where she stops, because this is where she may just break apart. Again. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde frowns, listening to Zetha's story. A lab? Well maybe this 'Jasper' is the one behind the experiments involving a 1 year old adult human. But why should -she- be endangered? Why would Amarik threaten -her-...     He shakes his head before she can finish. [I can do it] he insists. [Zealot will not harm you] 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' Navi sighs, hugging Zetha tightly. "Sometimes I really hate that guy..." she murmurs, cradling the Twi'lek girl against her. She wants to cry herself. But she can't, because Zetha needs her strength here and now. "So Zealot wants a probe into whatever lab created Jasper. I smell those shifty Arkanians behind this," she murmurs. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Thaarin's brow furrows. "Zetha, I'm.. I'm so sorry, I wasn't aware. I guess I was just so tired..." He sighs, suddenly looking tired again. He picks up another piece of the drill. "I see the efficiency of it, though it's brutal and dangerous," he says softly. When Cayde offers to do it instead, Thaarin shakes his head. "Cayde, you know that's extremely risky. The Mandalorian will resist you. What happened at the farmstead --" "Of course they're responsible," Thaarin says, "they've been making themselves so scarce lately, and I'm sure the doctor's concerns about their experimentation with genetics isn't unfounded." 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     [Better to be me] Cayde argues when Thaarin says it's risky. Well of course it was, but it was better than endangering Zetha's life, wasn't it? 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "But that's the other thing..." Zetha begins. "The other day. When we were in the gorge and we found those naked men? You called them Kassady and Caine. But...they look /just/ like Jasper. In matters of hair, facial features and such..." She then sighs. "And previously..." She looks to Cayde then. "When you found me in the cantina? The first night I met Doctor Cassias without...realizing he was the therapist Crane referred me to... it's Jasper that I was meeting." There's a pause. She's not even focused on the drill anymore. "That night. Jasper invited me to the Colony. He had actually /offered/ to show me something he had been working on. Putting it all together. I'm pretty sure it's this very lab. And when Doctor Cassias and I talked in the colony the day after Zealot threatened me. I told him...I gave him the probe Zealot gave me. But that's when I offered to do it. I don't think I'd even have to seduce Jasper. I'd just have to find him...tell him I had a change of heart. Because I need a change of scenery or something..." She glances to Thaarin again then. "Which is why I told you what I told you before we went to the gorge...you've tried everything else. Maybe I'm the bait you need to finally hook the fish." 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "I don't like the idea of using you as bait, Zetha. Not at all. But I also know what it's like to need to do something," Navi says softly. "If you're really committed to this, we can try it. With some adaptations made for the sake of your safety." She glances to the drill bits. "Now maybe we should try to put this stupid thing together. I'm tired of thinking about it." 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "I don't like it either," Thaarin says, "but Cayde attempting to persuade him using his powers of the mind seems just as risky. And those are really our only two options." He sighs. "However... you're right, Navi. We could make it safer, we could have her escorted from a distance. We could place a tracker on her, to ensure we know where she is at all times." He turns back to the drill bit and hands Zetha another piece of it. "And we should make sure that you have a way to tell us to extract you, immediately, if at any moment you feel start to feel unsafe." 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde doesn't really like it, either. Why did Zetha have to risk herself at all? But it seems no one agrees with his ideas, so he just sighs and starts picking up a few of the drill pieces with the Force. Maybe he'll just have to find Jasper himself, before everyone else does. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "Whichever way is the way to go. I just...I don't know where Jasper is. Or if he's now in hiding or just sitting in the lab because of what all else has transpired." Zetha offers this and then takes the offered piece from Thaarin to try and place it together with the other ones she has. "Weird though, isn't it? That those two look like Jasper? Has there been anything indicating that they're cloning people?" Because what else could it be? Triplets? With one seeming like they're only years old? She shakes her head and then glances to Cayde. "Do you think you could get inside his mind? They say it's just as risky but...we're all going to have to work together if this is going to succeed. And I'm willing enough to be bait, but also to keep our options open..." 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "I was Master Windu's assistant in the medical lab before I put on this badge," Navi observes. "And if I ever saw anyone whose whole demeanor just screamed 'unethical', it's those Arkanian scientists. I wouldn't put cloning past them. We already know that the Vergence makes for larger and healthier lifeforms in its vicinity, which is probably why they built that research lab so close to it. It's the kind of thing that might make major medical and scientific breakthroughs possible." "Cayde or I could try to get inside his head, if we could find him, though Cayde is better at that kind of thing. He might be one of the two we netted yesterday... did anyone ever find out why they were stark naked and unarmed?" 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "Unfortunately, I've no idea either," Thaarin says, "the doctor suspects that yes, the Arkanians have attempted cloning. Navi's right about the vergence. It makes things that might not ordinarily be possible, possible. How successful they've been, well, only time will tell." He gives Zetha and Navi a severe look. "I just don't think that's a good idea. We all saw what happened at the farmstead. And cloning ... well it's never been attempted by anyone before. Not even where I'm from, has it succeeded. We don't know what kind of havoc that might wreak on his mind. Even with Navi there, it's just not something I think would go well. And while I don't feel particularly sorry for him, the last thing we need is a psychotic clone of a man we already deem untrustworthy..." He turns to Cayde. "You'll have to be part of the escorting party. We all will. No one will be doing this alone. I'll figure out the finer details and brief everyone when the time comes, but in the meantime, you should get some rest," he says to Zetha softly. "Have you any means of contacting 'Jasper'?" he asks her. "Perhaps that's all I'd ask of you. Find a way to reach out to him..." 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde just continues to fiddle with the drill pieces as they float around in the air in front of him, slowly rotating about. Some of them fit together, but there's nothing to hold them there except the Force right now. Had he ever heard any of what was just said? 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "I can't..." Zetha says almost suddenly. "Everytime I've tried to sleep...it's all I see. That kriffing blaster pistol settled right between my eyes. Or the sniper laser pointed right at Wiis' head..." She says this and then shakes her head. When Thaarin asks about her having any way to contact Jasper, she shakes her head. "I don't. At least, I don't think I do? I'd have to check and see if he ever gave me his contact details." 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "Jasper might get nervous with so many people around Zetha, but her safety's a lot more important than his trust. We'll find another way if he refuses to talk to us. Like turning Cayde loose inside his head," Navi says, idly watching Cayde assemble the drill in midair. "Cayde, did you catch all of that?" 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Thaarin reaches and strokes Zetha's shoulder briefly before withdrawing his hand. "Zetha, you're safe. I don't trust Zealot, but if Cayde doesn't want you hurt, then he won't lay a finger on you or Wiis." He pauses. "I think." He sighs. "I'll talk to Cayde later," he says to Navi, "as you know, he just doesn't pay attention well during group sessions like this." He turns to the young padawan. "You should probably give those to Zetha," he says to him. "'Jasper' won't have to know,'" he tells Navi. "We'll set it up so that he won't know there's anyone watching or tracking her." 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde does his best to hold the drill pieces together, and moves them in front of Zetha. Maybe she has a welder, or something?     But his gaze falls at Navi's comment. Right, as if he's some kind of out of control weapon or torture device. A last resort, an ultimatum. Like a bomb. But it was true, wasn't it? 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha finally gets it in her head that she needs tools for this, and so she reaches over and grabs her nearby toolbox, setting it down and grabbing things one at a time with which to screw, pound, or otherwise make the pieces fit together like they should. At least the ones currently in her hands. There's a glance given to Thaarin then and she shrugs. "Maybe I'll conk myself in the head with a wrench... seems to do the trick nicely." Then she winks at him. Wait. Is she flirting? Openly? Surely not! "He likes to stick to the shadows. Doesn't like to be seen. This much I know about him...mostly. Except for the one time he came to the convent. Again, I'll just have to see if I have his contact info." She pauses a moment. "So what's the point of us putting the drill back together anyway?" 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "We can do our best on that, Thaarin, but that doesn't mean he's blind, deaf, or stupid. We'll need a contingency plan, just in case he realizes he's being shadowed," Navi suggests, watching Zetha work on the drill Cayde's holding up for her. Off Zetha's question, she shrugs. "No idea. I guess the justice system likes jigsaw puzzles?" 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Thaarin chuckles softly at Zetha's comment and gazes fondly at her for a moment, but then his attention is turned to Cayde. "You can do better," he says, "I -know- you can. I fully believe you're capable of it." He nods at Navi. "I'll think of something," he says, "don't worry. We'll have a contingency plan." There always had to be one, if Cayde was going to be involved... of course. "Well, perhaps he'll turn up if he hears you're looking for him?" "We need the drill put back together to validate some evidence that was aggregated against a certain colonist, Weniscio, for the murder of a Dug named Dresda." 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde just continues to hold the drill pieces there as Zetha gets her tools and sets to work, his expression still unreadable but his demeanor noticeably unhappy. He still doesn't look up, even after Thaarin's attempted encouragement. 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "Okay, then. I guess that makes sense." Navi keeps her attention on being moral support for the seemingly fragile Zetha. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha looks over the pieces as they come together and then nods her head in a sort of final way. "Alright. This piece is done." She offers this and then tilts her head. "Suppose it isn't enough that I could testify the drill was tampered with by a certain Chadra Fan and what he bought from here?" It's viable evidence, and it's even recorded. Even if the Chadra Fan was 'never there'...Zetha still recorded the sale. Otherwise Wiis would have had her head. She sets the one bit aside and down before looking at the other pieces. "This might take longer than anticipated..." 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "The Republic court systems will want both," Thaarin says, "Your eyewitness account, and the hard evidence." He pauses. "They might even want all of us testify back on Coruscant... I don't know when. Perhaps it could a welcome change," he says to Zetha. "It's alright," Thaarin says, "take your time. I've actually got to head back to Aklyrr, there was something Miss Graf wanted to discuss with me. But I'll see you all soon." He stands, and ruffles Cayde's hair affectionately. "We're still going to need you," he says softly, encouraging him, "when the time comes, to protect Zetha should the Mandalorian mean her harm. You're co-deputy, after all. You too, Navi." Then he takes his leave. But just as he leaves, another familiar presence makes himself known. 'Crane' must have seen Zetha head down to the junkyard that morning and had been missing her. Or... well maybe it's something else. He's running, and waving at the group gathered around the drill. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Yeah, sure...they will need him. To be the backup plan. The 'to hell with everything' option if things didn't go well. The monster in the cage to be unleashed only if nothing else worked. Because that's all he's good at, apparently.     He lets go of the patched together piece of the drill, and then starts working on another section. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "Sounds good, Thaarin. Take care of yourself and see you soon." Zetha offers as the man heads out. Though she looks back over to Cayde after a moment. "You know. Giving us all the silent treatment isn't very fair. I've had to learn to talk things out because holding it in isn't good. So...why are you being all broody silent suddenly? You understand I volunteered for this whole thing right?" Then she catches 'Crane' coming into the junkyard and she smiles a little while giving him a wave in return. "Crane! Hey! What brings you to the junkyard?" 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' Navi waves to Thaarin. "Be safe," she says softly as he departs. "She's right, Cayde. Holding it in just lets it fester. Let us help you work it out," she advises gently. But as she sees 'Crane' coming, she scowls faintly. "Just passing by and thought he'd drop in, no doubt..." 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "Zetha, Navi!" he says, his electric indigo eyes bright. "The governor of Kublop Springs is going to host a gala at his manor. The whole town is invited." "I want you all to come," he says, looking over at Zetha, and then to Navi, who, despite noticing her scowl, reaches over to grab both her hands and hoist her to her feet. He looks to Cayde. "You, too," he says. "I think you'll like it too, Cayde." 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde, liking a gala? Or any party whatsoever? In what world does Amarik live in now? The padawan also isn't giving Crane a very pleasant look.     << Why you threaten Zetha >> he immediately asks. << You lie and you hurt her >> 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "Wait. As in like... now?" Zetha asks and then she shakes her head. "I...I don't think..." Then she thinks back on the first time she met Jasper. At a fancy place, among fancy people, and her standing out like a sore thumb. Would he be there? "If the whole town was invited then how is it we didn't get any sort of invitation aside from you suddenly coming into the junkyard and letting us know it's happening?" 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' Navi comes to her feet at 'Crane's' urging. "A gala? Sounds fun, but it's odd that we haven't heard about it until now," she says. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' The Tholothian man responds. < And I had no plan to. Look, she's fine. I didn't shoot her, or Wiis. And now she'll help us. Listen, the Mandalorian is planning abominable things. And we cannot waste time, trying to find out a way into his laboratory. Besides, I think it will be good for her. She'll learn espionage. It's how I learned > "Of course not," The Tholothian man says. "It'll be in two weeks time. He just announced it, less than ten minutes ago, in the town square. You'll hear about it, soon enough." He hugs Navi, and the young Sephi girl will be overwhelmed by a sense of affection coming from the Tholothian man. Then he turns and takes one of Zetha's hands. "I really want you to come," he pleads. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     <Why she need that...I could have done it> Cayde argues, frowning. <You should tell her truth> he continues. The Tholothian will be able to tell that he isn't in a good mood at all. Something Navi had said earlier. 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' Navi returns 'Crane's' hug in kind, unable to keep from reciprocating some of that sense of deep affection. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Two weeks. Zetha takes in a breath and then shakes her head. "I'll think about it. I make no promises. Fancy things and me haven't gotten along very well." Besides, it's not like he's asking her in any capacity outside of the whole town being invited. She doesn't know what other conversation is happening, and therefore she'll turn and go right back to putting drill pieces together. She has to keep her mind busy. She might just work on this all night. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' <The Baron will not come at your beck and call. Neither will the Arkanians> He tells the young padawan. <In fact, he knows your association with Volken and knows to keep well away from you. Even I do not know where he is right now. And you will not find his laboratory without him> <You know I can't do that. It would destroy her, and then the truth about my dual identity would reach Xera. And if that were to happen, she would declare war upon the marauders and raze anything that got in her path of vengeance. It may happen, anyway, but the longer we can avoid this conflict, the better. Besides, I have news about the cortosis. Volken and his ilk no longer have it. They gave it to me, willingly, for information on the general whereabouts of my employer. And now, it lies at the bottom of the Temple, in a place unreachable except through the power of Jedi mystics. This should please you? I did it for you, because you're right about the Mandalorians, and because I wanted you to be happy> "You'll come, then?" he says to Navi, and then looks to Zetha. "I'll be there. I'll make sure you have a nice time." 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     <You shouldn't be with them> Cayde argues. So what if Xera drove them away? Maybe that'd force Amarik to rethink his position.     ...or, he could just tell Zetha himself.     The news about the cortosis doesn't seem to improve his mood. The result of the entire ordeal hadn't been the problem, really. It was more how everyone else had treated him throughout. And nothing could change that, or the roots of it.     But he shrugs and goes back to helping Zetha reassemble the drill. <Thank you.> 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "If I'm not busy with more work, I'll come. It's been a long time since I got to dress up," Navi replies to 'Crane'. She looks between Zetha and Cayde thoughtfully, not missing the tension on Cayde's face. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "I said I'll think about it." Zetha reaffirms. "That's the last I will say on the matter for now." If 'Crane' actually looks at her. Really looks. He may see in her eyes the slight puffiness from fighting back tears, the lingering terror because she just lamented her tale about what Zealot did to her not knowing that she isn't really in any actually true danger. The truth would ruin her? She's already ruined. And in truth if she learned that it was all a ploy...breaking her will be the least of anyone's worries. As Cayde rejoins her to reassemble the drill she looks up and over to him. Setting her tools down a moment she signs, <You okay?> Perhaps trying to make it subtle so the other two don't see her communicating with the young Jedi privately. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' he tells Cayde. And then to both Cayde and Navi, he says, <And recently, I've been thinking that once this is all over, if I somehow manage to survive... I'll have to disappear. The marauders won't want a Republic fugitive among their rank, that will draw unwanted attention from the RDC. But I hope you realize that once Xera finds out, people are going to die. Just my head on a platter won't be good enough for her. Some of them will be marauders, many of them will be colonists.> 'Crane' doesn't say anything else, instead, he plucks three flowers from a nearby tree and offers them to Navi, Cayde, and Zetha. Except for Zetha, he places the flower in her lekku and offers her a faint smile. 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' Navi accepts 'Crane's' flower, sniffing softly before tucking it into her hair, above her left ear. < For what it's worth, from someone knowing just how much you have to answer for? I really do hope you find peace, > she says softly. Noticing Zetha's struggle with unshed tears, she hugs the Twi'lek girl gently, trying to soothe her by gently petting her lekku. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     [I am fine] Cayde signs back to Zetha, although he still looks rather unhappy. [But thank you...] Then he just resumes a downcast gaze, not looking at her.[I don't know] It seemed random, but it was meant in response to the earlier questions about 'broodiness' that are most likely still on her mind.     <Not if you show good> Cayde replies. As in, prove to everyone that he's truly decided to leave that life behind. He glances at the offered flower, but doesn't take it. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha would sign something else to Cayde but then they're being invaded by others so she leaves it. If only she could talk with him telepathically on her own. Maybe she'll offer to do that whole mind trip thing again sometime soon. In all truth she wants to shove the flower out of her lekku. She wants to run into her room, flop onto her bed and sleep. But sleep hasn't come much, and shoving away a gesture seems rude. Perhaps even harsh. She doesn't know the whole truth yet. Just her truth. Her terrifying, sleep depriving, unforgettable truth. So she continues to busy herself with the drill again. She says nothing. Barely leans into the hug that Navi gives her. Keep busy. Work. Don't think. It'll all come to pass eventually. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' <No, Cayde. You don't who I am. You don't know what I've done. Even if I could be reborn, a lifetime of good would not redeem me. Xera would not forgive me, and neither will the law. Navi knows, and understands> He brushes Navi's cheek gently. Then he squats and squeezes Zetha's hand gently. "I'll see you back at the convent?" he asks. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde just sighs, looking even more dejected. But that's the only response Amarik will get.     Zetha will feel some of his presence touch the edge of her mind. <If you need help to sleep...> is the offer. 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' Navi releases Zetha. "If you need to talk, I'm always available," she says quietly, withdrawing into the next room. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha feels that squeeze to her hand and she looks over at Crane. Can he see it now? All the emotion she's trying to hold back? The fear in those purple eyes? When he asks that question, she gently pulls her hand away and shakes her head. "No. I have to stay here. Fix this drill. Protect Wiis." The words are spoken softly as she goes back to picking up pieces to see what parts of the puzzle fit best before she makes them stick together again. "I don't think I'll be back for a while..." She glances up at Cayde with a new look in her gaze. Puzzled. <If only because I don't understand...how? Like I'm not questioning whatever it is...I just don't know what it is.> She's likely liable to squish her fingers in the drill bits as she pushes them together whilst not paying much attention. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' He pauses. He looks to Cayde, and then to Zetha, and for a brief moment, he looks sad. "Okay," he says softly. "You don't need to be afraid," he says to her, "the co-deputies will protect you." <I'm sorry> he says to Cayde. <One day, I'll tell you everything. And you'll understand, that some mistakes can't be fixed, no matter how much good you do. If the Republic finds me, I'll spend the rest of my life in solitary confinement on a lonely, remote planet away from everyone and everything> He notices she's being careless with the drill and reaching for her wrist, pushes her hand away while pulling the drill pieces away. "Maybe you should take a break? You almost hurt yourself just now." 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''      Cayde answers simply, shrugging. She'd seen that rooftop garden scene. Even that might be nice to sleep in, wouldn't it? And even if not, he could create anything, if she'd let him.     He doesn't respond to Amarik's further arguments that he doesn't understand, it only seems to deepen that sad abyss. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Not if Zealot comes in the middle of the night, upset that she's taking too long. Finds out she's been talking to others about it and decides it's not worth the price he's paid or...whatever other horrible terrible thing that Zetha's mind can think of. Because she doesn't know the truth. Because the truth would destroy her more than the lie already is. Then her wrist is being grabbed and she snaps out of whatever side quest her mind was taking. "I...I'm sorry. I'm just tired. I'm so tired..." The tears finally break free, rolling down her cheeks as she looks at Cayde. Right at him. And just nods her head. Her mind whirling. <Whatever it takes. I just want to sleep.> This wasn't the same person a couple days ago in the gorge. When she saw those two men who looked like Jasper, it made her question things. Re-telling the story because she finally had the courage to admit she wasn't okay further opened the flood gates that were now crashing against the dam she had built in her mind. Soren might very well be getting a call or text soon. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "You don't have to apologize," Crane says. Then, with some effort and if Zetha lets him, he'll lift her up bridal style and carry her to the couch, laying her down on it gently. Then he picks up a blanket and covers her with it, tucking her in, just like Wiis used to when she was a little girl. Then he steps back, to let Cayde help her quiet her mind, or who knows, perhaps Zetha will fall asleep even before the young padawan begins... 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde nods and sits down on the edge of the couch, taking one of her hands and focusing on calming her mind by creating a scene similar to the rooftop garden he'd shown her before. It takes a few tries, but he eventually manages to send her there. A place far away from all her troubles, where the air is perfect, and a quiet, clear waterfall gently splashes into a pond. There is a small cottage, with a bed exactly her size that feels more comfortable than anything she's ever slept on, even at the convent. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' It's likely sometime shortly after Cayde takes her hand. Zetha's eyes were closed, tucked in like Wiis used to, which brings a bit of calm to her. Then the place Cayde sends her to. Where there's no blasters or sniper rifles. Nothing else tugging at her. Just peace. Moments later she's out. Or so it seems anyway. 
}}

A First Date

2025-11-05T22:05:41Z

Andromeda:

{{Log Header
|Date of Scene=2025-11-01
|Cast of Characters=195, 444
|pretty=yes
|Location=Kublop Springs - Tenoo - Outer Rim
}}
{{Poses
|Poses=:'''{{#var:195|Amarik (195)}} has posed:''' It might have been as short as half an hour, or as long a couple, depending on how much convincing the doctor had had to do in order to get Zetha to leave the business about the Mandalorians well enough alone until she could take care of her personal matters. He would have told her, too, that there was little to be done on that front yet anyway, the Mandalorians weren't exactly playing friendly and he'd yet to confirm that Thaarin was going to be allowed to bring him along to study the strange 'Jasper' duplicate. And the doctor was adamant that Zetha not talk to him, or the other Mandalorian, until he'd done a psych eval on both of them. So Zetha doesn't have much else to do in the meantime, unless she wants to go back to the junkyard and obsess over the drill bit, which has been already been reassembled... 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha had resigned to go talk to Crane with much pushing from Soren. Truth of the matter was, she didn't like that she had inevitably pushed 'Crane' away but at the same time, she felt like her own feelings on the matter weren't taken into consideration. None the less, she leaves Soren to do whatever it is Soren does and makes her way to the convent. Of course, she has no idea where Crane is. Right there in the open entrance, in his room, in the inner sanctum. But she'll go looking for him never the less. 

:'''{{#var:195|Amarik (195)}} has posed:''' She'll bump into him as she's making her way towards his room in the convent. She might not know how to feel when it immediately becomes apparently that he's packed up, and is carrying a small backpack. He looks like he's going somewhere that isn't here... permanently. Regardless, when she appears in the hallway, he seems happy to see her. Those electric indigo eyes light up, and there's zero trace of any bitterness or resentment towards her, despite how she'd treated him earlier. "I was going to ask the other convent members to make sure you knew I'd left this for you," he says, holding out that romance holobook she'd mentioned was her favorite. "But now, since you're here, I can just give it to you. I know you like it." 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' There's a blink as she sees how he's packed up, that small backpack, and when he offers her that holobook...she takes it hesitantly. "..Thanks..but.." She looks past him to his room and then back to him. "Are you going somewhere? I...I wanted to talk to you. I wanted to apologize for how I snapped at you back at the junkyard. And..." A part of her feels like this is now pointless. But she pushes past that and musters up the courage to continue. "Crane. Things have been a whirlwind and often I find myself landing on only one foot and stumbling. But you've always been a rock that I can steady myself with. And that means so much to me. I -do- like you..." She stops there though, like working through things she wants to say before saying them so she doesn't mess something else up. 

:'''{{#var:195|Amarik (195)}} has posed:''' The young Tholothian man looks really confused. "Oh," he says, "that's alright, I wasn't angry at you." He pauses. "Well, to be honest, I thought I didn't really have a reason to stay here. Since it seemed like you didn't want to see me anymore, and Navi and Cayde will visit Jedha plenty..." he trails off. But when she says she likes him, he smiles faintly. "Thank you," he says, "I'm flattered. Should I stay, then?" 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "You don't have to be angry for something to have still been wrong. I was wrong. This thing with Zealot and what he's asked me to do has got me frazzled...but when I found out that it would benefit others...and we changed the gameplan a little bit. I'm still terrified Zealot's going to think I'm wasting time or...whatever...but everyone is right. I can't let that fear control what I do..." Then she lets out a light laugh. "I'm rambling again. Sorry. It's really just me trying to sort out my thoughts." Then she smiles. "Would you please stay? I would like that. I really would. Cause I'd like to still see you, talk, rant about crappy romance writing...I mean...if you really want to stay and keep hanging out with a whirlwind of a person like myself." 

:'''{{#var:195|Amarik (195)}} has posed:''' "Okay," he says, and immediately puts down the bag. Perhaps it will occur to her that it seems that the only reason he's here at all is... her. He sits down on the small futon in the hallway, and offering her a faint smile and patting the spot on it next to him, inviting her to sit down. "Don't be afraid, Zetha. Even if you are wasting his time, it doesn't matter. What can he do to you, that the Jedi won't be able to protect you from? I'm sorry that had to happen to you, and I'm sorry you were terrified. But he's just as afraid of the Jedi, as you are of him. Who wouldn't be? Your friends are powerful, Zetha. No harm is going to befall you, or Wiis. The co deputies won't let it happen, I'm certain of it." "I like you, too," he offers randomly. "But I fear I've only been a mediocre friend to you, and I don't want that. I want to be more than that." 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha's smile doesn't fade, and in fact likely brightens a little as he sets his bag down. The whole matter of factly, she asked, he obliged, is likely something she will have to get used to. When he sits, and offers her a seat beside, she takes it and listens to what he says. "I know. I need to trust that. I'm still..learning? How to trust that. But Cayde and Navi have done many things to help protect Wiis and I. And I need to trust that will continue." She offers this. "It's just...it was me and Wiis only for a long time. Seventeen years is a long time to only exist in the junkyard. Wiis usually ran most the errands and I worked on orders or just making things work again around the yard. So it's hard letting go of that feeling that protecting Wiis is on me and me alone." Even saying that out loud is likely a big step for Zetha. Though with the last bit of what he says, she actually blushes. "You have been more than a mediocre friend. You're someone I can trust. You've done a lot for me whether you know it or not. So keep being that...and maybe even more...e-eventually...of course..." There's a pause. "I'm glad you like me too. This would be a weird friendship if you didn't..." 

:'''{{#var:195|Amarik (195)}} has posed:''' "You can't be blamed," he says, "everything you've said is true, but there's also the fact that everyone else around here just doesn't seem to believe that Cayde can carry his half of the job and help protect you if you need it," he says. "You've seen how Navi, Thaarin, and even the doctor treat him. They treat him like he's a child. And maybe he is, and maybe he does mess up a lot, but did anyone ever consider that perhaps it's because they don't believe in him? They don't believe he's capable of not ruining whatever he touches. Imagine if everyone believed that about you. It wouldn't be fair, would it?" He seems intrigued and puzzled when she says they that could maybe be even more. "What do you mean?" he asks. "I want to know how I can be more than the friend I'm being now." 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha nods. "I think I maybe got that habit too. Cayde means well, and he tries so hard. I can see that he does. Gods I kinda see myself in him sometimes. I've been meaning to be able to talk to him, like without anyone else around. Because I think he acts a little differently when he's got anyone else watching his every move. But I'd like to just have a conversation with him. Let -him- express how he feels - though I think he has a hard time with that too." She offers this and then nods. "You're right. If the tables were turned, it truly wouldn't be fair. I think people need to be reminded of that. A person can't grow if they're being put down all the time." When he asks about what she means, Zetha actually blushes. "Well hanging out like this helps. Just being able to sit and talk. But I'd like to get to know you more. Maybe...and this is so not how it works in When Stars Collide but...maybe go out? Like on your boat, but this time not with any needed destination in mind. We could enjoy the water and time together. Hopefully without any interruption." Zetha. Can you not just say 'go on a date'? 

:'''{{#var:195|Amarik (195)}} has posed:''' "Yeah," he says, "I think that would be really good for him. And you," he says. "And reminding people would be good, too. I think that would mean a lot to him, if you stood up for him, once or twice, or even better, multiple times." Zetha may be happy to find that this seems to please him, greatly. He nods vigorously, his eyes light up, and he smiles broadly at her. He'd never done that before, and she might find herself realizing that he's even prettier when he's excited like this. He stands up, and starts hurrying towards the exit of the convent. "If we don't get to the dock in the next ten minutes, we'll miss the sunset!" 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "You're right. If anyone has been a mediocre friend to anyone it's me to Cayde. But you're right and I'll do that. Not only because you said it but because I agree and it needs to be done." Zetha offers this much and then lets the matter rest. If only because Crane is suddenly really excited. That smile alone tugs at her more than she maybe realized it would. Then he's standing and hurrying to leave! "Well wait a moment and at least let me follow you!" This said with laughter and joy in the words as she stands and hurries to follow him. 

:'''{{#var:195|Amarik (195)}} has posed:''' "No!" he says playfully, now full on running. "You're too slow!" But it's not like Zetha doesn't know where the docks are, it's just highly likely that he's gonna get there a full two or three minutes before she does. He'll already be on the boat when she arrives, but as luck would have it, the fuel reservoir is empty, and he'll still be filling it when she arrives. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "You're such a jerk!" Zetha calls back just as playfully while trying to keep up. It doesn't work. She's a couple minutes behind but then spies him filling the fuel resivoir. This at least allows her to catch her breath for a moment. "While we're on the subject of friendly things...I do want to make sure I know your boundaries. I know you like your privacy and I'm hopefully doing better at respecting that. But like now while we're here and hanging out and such... is NOW - or at least when you're done filling the tank - an okay time to hug you?" 

:'''{{#var:195|Amarik (195)}} has posed:''' He doesn't actually say anything when she asks about his boundaries, but there's a playful twinkle in his eyes when he looks over at her while filling the reservoir. Once he finishes, he'll shrug off his outer layer, revealing the sleeveless shirt he's wearing underneath and the very faint scar on his upper arm. Zetha might have recalled that one time he'd clearly been injured, somehow. But before she can say anything else, he wraps an arm around her waist while tossing the rope securing the boat to the pier post onto the dock. He smiles. "This is fine," he says. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha won't ask about the scar. Maybe sometime in the future, but not now. It may dampen the moment and she doesn't want that. Instead she'll watch as he finishes filling the tank and tosses that securing rope onto the dock. When he moves to wrap an arm around her, she'll shift and lean her head onto his shoulder. Shoulder? Arm? Wherever her head can rest depending on height difference. "Yeah. This is great." Letting them stay that way for a moment. "So. You know a good place to watch the sun set, eh?" 

:'''{{#var:195|Amarik (195)}} has posed:''' "Of course I do," he says, "I come out here on a weekly basis to see it. It's wonderful. Have you ever visited the pools on top of the trees?" he asks. "The best view is from up there." The boat will then jolt as it hits the current, and away they go. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "We might have to make this a regular occurence then. That I join you sometimes. If you wish." Zetha offers and then gives a shake of her head. "No. I don't regularly come to the woods..." And this is likely a huge step considering what happened the last time. "Well if we can make it, I can't wait to see it... but I think the view will be wonderful anywhere because we're sharing it together." 

:'''{{#var:195|Amarik (195)}} has posed:''' "I would like that," he says immediately, "you can come with me anytime you want," he says with a smile. He laughs. "We'll make it, don't worry." He seems flattered and embarrassed when she says it will be wonderful anywhere because they're sharing it together. "You're too kind," he says, averting his gaze bashfully. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "Careful. I may come so much you'll actually get sick of me being around!" Zetha says jokingly and then watches the scenery as it goes by while the boat travels along. "Just being honest." She says then which rolls right into her commenting, "We hang out enough times people might think we're dating." 

:'''{{#var:195|Amarik (195)}} has posed:''' "I won't," he reassures her. When she comments about them hanging out enough that people might thing they're dating, he shrugs. "So?" he says nonchalantly. "Is that a bad thing?" 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' And there it is. But is he asking because he -wants- them to be dating or just doesn't care what other people think. "Honestly, I don't think so. In truth...I guess it's more if someone like Navi, Cayde or even Doctor Cassias asks. What would we tell them? Which answer would be the truth?" 

:'''{{#var:195|Amarik (195)}} has posed:''' He suddenly stops piloting the boat, and he frowns. He seems pensive but also confused. "I don't know," he says. "What do you want?" 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "Maybe to give it some time. We like each other which is a start. I'm open to the possibility that this may turn into us dating. Which likely sounds like deflection...but I'm still working out some things. And I don't want to just jump into something. Time. Potential. People can think what they want. What matter is that we're on the same page." Zetha offers, feeling the little mood shift that she was hoping wouldn't happen. 

:'''{{#var:195|Amarik (195)}} has posed:''' "You want to... date me? Or no, you don't?" he says, incredulous. For some reason, this seems to be news to him. There's a pregnant pause, and he goes back to steering the boat, but his expression is pensive. "...right. It doesn't matter what other people think, it just matters what you want, and what we know to be true." 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "I do." Zetha says it firmly. Or she thinks she does. "But it's very new territory for me. To date anyone. To feel like I'm ready to date someone. It may not seem like it right now, but this whole conversation is terrifying for me to have. Cause it puts a bit on the line. But if you're open to the potential.." His other statement comes and she nods. "Yes. Just that." And then she tries to turn it all around again. "So. Sunset?" 

:'''{{#var:195|Amarik (195)}} has posed:''' "Oh," he says. He seems surprised. -Very- surprised, and speechless. "...I'm flattered. But I had no idea you wanted to date me," he says, "and I'm sorry, but I just don't --" But then suddenly, the boat dips, and there's some turbulence. His attention is diverted back to piloting, and he says, "We're about to go over the falls --" He pushes the repulsorlifts to max capacity, and then suddenly, they're nosediving at a 45 degree angle! 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' And there it is again. Zetha's mind can fill in the rest of what was going to come after 'just dont'. Not that she has any time to actually fill in the blank even mentally as the boat jerks and then they're going over the falls. She just grabs onto the nearest not-Crane object she might be able to grab onto so she doesn't go flying out of the boat herself. 

:'''{{#var:195|Amarik (195)}} has posed:''' Thankfully, the nosedive doesn't last for long. Before Zetha knows it, she's drenched and they're in a gorgeous, reflective pool of water on top of those massive flat topped trees that Tenoo is so famous for. The setting is serene, romantic - and the reflection of the sunset in the still water is gorgeous. Crane is up top, raising the sails so the boat slows its pace. Once he's finished, he looks down at her, offering her a faint smile, as he climbs down the mast to join her on the deck. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha smiles and then dips her head. "Look. I understand if you don't want to date me. Just...please don't stop being my friend. That's all I ask. That's probably more of what I need now than anything. Friends. So..." But the view is incredible in that sort of take your breath away kind of thing. If friends can enjoy this, then maybe things won't be so bad after all. "This view is incredible, and look how the water reflects the colors. It's absolutely gorgeous." 

:'''{{#var:195|Amarik (195)}} has posed:''' He doesn't say anything at first, but when she tries to change the subject and talk about the sunset, he doesn't look over at it. He's just looking at her. "Zetha," he says, "I want you to tell me how you really feel." "And be honest, please." 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' She actually frowns a little, and turns her attention to the sun while it slowly dips below the horizon. "I like you. A lot. I find myself smiling every time you message me. Those cute little additions to them that I still don't quite understand. You've been there for me for a lot, and you showed me a kindness even from the first moment we met at the convent. The fact that you've actually taken time to make sure I'm okay. That you miss me, and I miss you, when it's been a while since we've seen eachother." There's a pause as she looks over at him. Her own purple gaze sparkling with the fading sun. "You need to know that I am still working out some things with myself. Mentally and emotionally. So I can't, and won't, put anymore to it than that. I'm open to seeing if it could be more. That's how I feel." 

:'''{{#var:195|Amarik (195)}} has posed:''' His bemusement grows. "But what does that all mean?" he asks, his brows furrowing. "I meant, what are you feeling right now? You seem disappointed..." He goes to intertwine his fingers with hers, but still doesn't look over at the sunset. He's still watching her. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "I am. A little. Right before we went over the falls you were saying something. I said I wanted to date you and you apologized and said you just don't..." Zetha offers and then gives a chuckle. "I figured it was something like you don't see yourself dating right now. Or you just don't see me that way. Either of them are fine, of course. It's not the first time something similar has been said to me." This is when she looks to him. "Which is why I said...why I asked...that you don't stop being my friend. That this doesn't hurt anything between us. But it's just that whenever I feel like I've managed to maybe figure something out about feelings and friendship and relationships...I find that I might just be wrong. Which is on me. And that's okay." 

:'''{{#var:195|Amarik (195)}} has posed:''' He doesn't say anything. Instead, he reaches forward and lets the back of his hand trace her lekku, very gently, while he maintains eye contact. He then reaches into Zetha's mind, hoping to discern just how disappointed she was, or if he'd hurt her more than she was letting on... 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' That hand against her lekku has her giving a soft smile. Though their eyes are meeting, she's maybe searching into his for something. Hopefully acceptance, at the very least, that he's satisfied with her answer. As he reaches into her mind, the truth is apparent. The hurt stems from the fact that it's been done before. So she's honest that she's only a little disappointed between them, but there's a pain that does go a bit deeper. It's likely something she'll be talking to Doctor Cassias about sometime soon. Tell the people you love that you love them. But love - to Zetha - isn't as sectioned out as it should be. 

:'''{{#var:195|Amarik (195)}} has posed:''' For a moment, he just stands there, not knowing what to say or do. His brows furrow slightly, and if Zetha had to guess, it's a pensive look, like he's trying to figure out what he should say or do next. Maybe a minute elapses, or perhaps a few seconds. But what comes next will probably surprise Zetha. He leans towards her, hesitantly at first, but then attempts to kiss her. It's fumbling, awkward, but sincere... 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha watches him for the seconds or even minute that he's seeming to...think on things. Really think. She's not even sure if she should break the tension by saying something or just see what happens. A thought that goes overboard when she finds him leaning in and he's kissing her. Sure it's awkward and fumbly...but what first kisses aren't. Her response? She accepts the first attempt and likely adjusts just enough so that there can be a second one just after. A little less fumbly, maybe similarly awkward, but definitely just as sincere as the first. Her eyes close and everything! 

:'''{{#var:195|Amarik (195)}} has posed:''' After his first attempt, he seems embarrassed. "Sorry," he says, "that was bad, let me try again--" But then she just interrupts him by kissing him a second time. He'll be just as accepting of it as she was of the first one, as he wraps his arms around her shoulders and pulls her in close. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' That second kiss doesn't linger for too terribly long, breaking off gently from it as he pulls her close. Zetha wraps her arms around him in return and holds close to him as well. "Second one wasn't too bad, I don't think." She whispers since she's so close to him. Now this is the awkward moment where she doesn't want to hang on for too long, but also not to pull away too soon. But she does, eventually, shift to pull away just so and one hand drifts back to intwine fingers with his own again. "So. Is this when I get to turn the tables on you and ask how you're feeling right now. And to be honest with me?" She grins. "Seems only fair." 

:'''{{#var:195|Amarik (195)}} has posed:''' Again, he doesn't say anything for a few moments. He just stares into space, brows furrowed. He seems overwhelmed, but isn't voicing it. At least not yet, anyway. Finally, he says, "I was going to say, I just don't know how." There's another pregnant pause. "I've never had anyone want to date me, and like me, too. The first girl who kissed me, well, I'm pretty sure she hates me now." "I don't want to accidentally hurt you. I just want you to be happy. What I want outside of that doesn't matter that much--" 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "If it makes you feel any better, the first kiss I ever had was with the same Mandalorian I now need to infiltrate and cooerce into taking me to his labratory...so..." Zetha gives a grin and then a shrug. "I am happy. Happier than I've been in the past. And I need you to know and understand that I am still working on various parts of myself. I'm not perfect, but no one is. And this...one step at a time. Because that's all we can really ever take. We'll stumble together, I'm sure, but...I'm excited to see where it goes..." She then shifts to rest her head on his chest a moment. "As far as first dates go...this is high up on the list." 

:'''{{#var:195|Amarik (195)}} has posed:''' "Okay," he says, although he sounds a little uncertain. But then after she moves to rest her head on his chest, he says more confidently, "Right. That's good." He awkwardly places an arm around her shoulder, and has to readjust after a moment to make the placement of his arm less uncomfortable. Eventually, he sits down, letting her lean on him as he finally turns to watch the sunset. "I'm glad you're happy," he says softly. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha shifts to sit with him, lean on him, and she actually takes in a breath and lets it out just before relaxing against him a bit more. "Well. You're happy too right? I mean...you're like the other half of all this so things you want or think or feel are going to matter. And we've kinda only focused on how -I- feel." She offers this, still tucked close, and just trying to have a conversation. "That is a really pretty sunset though." Says the roller coaster of emotional wonders. 

:'''{{#var:195|Amarik (195)}} has posed:''' He pauses, frowning pensively for a moment. "...yes." Then, more confidently, "Yes." He gets up, reaches into the water and pulls up a lotus flower and sticks it in her lekku. "It is," he says, then kisses her cheek. "But not as pretty as you." 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' The first time he sort of had to correct his reply, Zetha could over look it. The fact that he's done it a few times now has her worried. "Are you alright? You seem like you're unsure of things...." Like, she doesn't want this to be happening simply because it would make her happy. She can become happy again after being disappointed. But questioning him seems rude after everything. "Crane I need you to be honest with yourself and me. Is this something you truly want?" 

:'''{{#var:195|Amarik (195)}} has posed:''' "I think so," he says, but this time he doesn't hesitate. "All I know is that right now, this is nice. What I had in the past, wasn't. Will it stay that way? Probably. But only mystics can discern what the future is through the Force, and even they cannot always be certain and are often called kooks." He sits down next to her again, and rests his head on her shoulder this time, watching for the rest of the few minutes before the sun dips below the horizon. Then he gets up and goes over to the yoke of the boat and pilots them into a small side channel that will take them back to Kublop. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha nods. That's enough for her and the lack of hesitation makes her feel better. The moment that they spend together watching the sunset is nice and then he's getting up and taking them back to Kublop. The smile on Zetha's face doesn't fade at all, and she overall seems happier than she's been in the last several days if not weeks. "I've got a few projects going on at the junkyard. I only say that because I can get really into the work and then wind up passing out there. But I think I could come back to the convent if you really miss me that much." 

:'''{{#var:195|Amarik (195)}} has posed:''' He nods. "It's okay," he says, "it would be nice if you came back, but you don't have to if you feel like you need to stay at the junkyard for Wiis," he says. Once they arrive back at the docks, it's half past eleven. He walks with her until they're off the pier, then hesitates, not sure if she'll go with him back to the convent, or head back to the junkyard. "... should I kiss you goodnight?" he asks awkwardly. "Sorry--" 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha will likely come back to the convent. She misses it. It's closer to some of her favorite places and people. As they arrive back to the docks and he walks her to the end of the pier she'll glance to him and then gives a little blush. "Why are you sorry? I figured I'd at least come spend the night with you at the convent. So you can kiss me goodnight there before we sleep in our respective corners." 

:'''{{#var:195|Amarik (195)}} has posed:''' "Ah, it sounded stupid after I asked," he admits, averting his gaze, looking embarrassed. He nods, and then takes her hand as they walk back to the convent together. 
}}

A First Date

2025-11-05T22:05:14Z

Andromeda: Created page with "{{Log Header |Date of Scene=2025-11-01 |Cast of Characters=195, 444 |pretty=yes }} {{Poses |Poses=:'''{{#var:195|Amarik (195)}} has posed:''' It might have been as short as half an hour, or as long a couple, depending on how much convincing the doctor had had to do in order to get Zetha to leave the business about the Mandalorians well enough alone until she could take care of her personal matters. He would have told her, too, that there was little to be done on that..."

{{Log Header
|Date of Scene=2025-11-01
|Cast of Characters=195, 444
|pretty=yes
}}
{{Poses
|Poses=:'''{{#var:195|Amarik (195)}} has posed:''' It might have been as short as half an hour, or as long a couple, depending on how much convincing the doctor had had to do in order to get Zetha to leave the business about the Mandalorians well enough alone until she could take care of her personal matters. He would have told her, too, that there was little to be done on that front yet anyway, the Mandalorians weren't exactly playing friendly and he'd yet to confirm that Thaarin was going to be allowed to bring him along to study the strange 'Jasper' duplicate. And the doctor was adamant that Zetha not talk to him, or the other Mandalorian, until he'd done a psych eval on both of them. So Zetha doesn't have much else to do in the meantime, unless she wants to go back to the junkyard and obsess over the drill bit, which has been already been reassembled... 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha had resigned to go talk to Crane with much pushing from Soren. Truth of the matter was, she didn't like that she had inevitably pushed 'Crane' away but at the same time, she felt like her own feelings on the matter weren't taken into consideration. None the less, she leaves Soren to do whatever it is Soren does and makes her way to the convent. Of course, she has no idea where Crane is. Right there in the open entrance, in his room, in the inner sanctum. But she'll go looking for him never the less. 

:'''{{#var:195|Amarik (195)}} has posed:''' She'll bump into him as she's making her way towards his room in the convent. She might not know how to feel when it immediately becomes apparently that he's packed up, and is carrying a small backpack. He looks like he's going somewhere that isn't here... permanently. Regardless, when she appears in the hallway, he seems happy to see her. Those electric indigo eyes light up, and there's zero trace of any bitterness or resentment towards her, despite how she'd treated him earlier. "I was going to ask the other convent members to make sure you knew I'd left this for you," he says, holding out that romance holobook she'd mentioned was her favorite. "But now, since you're here, I can just give it to you. I know you like it." 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' There's a blink as she sees how he's packed up, that small backpack, and when he offers her that holobook...she takes it hesitantly. "..Thanks..but.." She looks past him to his room and then back to him. "Are you going somewhere? I...I wanted to talk to you. I wanted to apologize for how I snapped at you back at the junkyard. And..." A part of her feels like this is now pointless. But she pushes past that and musters up the courage to continue. "Crane. Things have been a whirlwind and often I find myself landing on only one foot and stumbling. But you've always been a rock that I can steady myself with. And that means so much to me. I -do- like you..." She stops there though, like working through things she wants to say before saying them so she doesn't mess something else up. 

:'''{{#var:195|Amarik (195)}} has posed:''' The young Tholothian man looks really confused. "Oh," he says, "that's alright, I wasn't angry at you." He pauses. "Well, to be honest, I thought I didn't really have a reason to stay here. Since it seemed like you didn't want to see me anymore, and Navi and Cayde will visit Jedha plenty..." he trails off. But when she says she likes him, he smiles faintly. "Thank you," he says, "I'm flattered. Should I stay, then?" 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "You don't have to be angry for something to have still been wrong. I was wrong. This thing with Zealot and what he's asked me to do has got me frazzled...but when I found out that it would benefit others...and we changed the gameplan a little bit. I'm still terrified Zealot's going to think I'm wasting time or...whatever...but everyone is right. I can't let that fear control what I do..." Then she lets out a light laugh. "I'm rambling again. Sorry. It's really just me trying to sort out my thoughts." Then she smiles. "Would you please stay? I would like that. I really would. Cause I'd like to still see you, talk, rant about crappy romance writing...I mean...if you really want to stay and keep hanging out with a whirlwind of a person like myself." 

:'''{{#var:195|Amarik (195)}} has posed:''' "Okay," he says, and immediately puts down the bag. Perhaps it will occur to her that it seems that the only reason he's here at all is... her. He sits down on the small futon in the hallway, and offering her a faint smile and patting the spot on it next to him, inviting her to sit down. "Don't be afraid, Zetha. Even if you are wasting his time, it doesn't matter. What can he do to you, that the Jedi won't be able to protect you from? I'm sorry that had to happen to you, and I'm sorry you were terrified. But he's just as afraid of the Jedi, as you are of him. Who wouldn't be? Your friends are powerful, Zetha. No harm is going to befall you, or Wiis. The co deputies won't let it happen, I'm certain of it." "I like you, too," he offers randomly. "But I fear I've only been a mediocre friend to you, and I don't want that. I want to be more than that." 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha's smile doesn't fade, and in fact likely brightens a little as he sets his bag down. The whole matter of factly, she asked, he obliged, is likely something she will have to get used to. When he sits, and offers her a seat beside, she takes it and listens to what he says. "I know. I need to trust that. I'm still..learning? How to trust that. But Cayde and Navi have done many things to help protect Wiis and I. And I need to trust that will continue." She offers this. "It's just...it was me and Wiis only for a long time. Seventeen years is a long time to only exist in the junkyard. Wiis usually ran most the errands and I worked on orders or just making things work again around the yard. So it's hard letting go of that feeling that protecting Wiis is on me and me alone." Even saying that out loud is likely a big step for Zetha. Though with the last bit of what he says, she actually blushes. "You have been more than a mediocre friend. You're someone I can trust. You've done a lot for me whether you know it or not. So keep being that...and maybe even more...e-eventually...of course..." There's a pause. "I'm glad you like me too. This would be a weird friendship if you didn't..." 

:'''{{#var:195|Amarik (195)}} has posed:''' "You can't be blamed," he says, "everything you've said is true, but there's also the fact that everyone else around here just doesn't seem to believe that Cayde can carry his half of the job and help protect you if you need it," he says. "You've seen how Navi, Thaarin, and even the doctor treat him. They treat him like he's a child. And maybe he is, and maybe he does mess up a lot, but did anyone ever consider that perhaps it's because they don't believe in him? They don't believe he's capable of not ruining whatever he touches. Imagine if everyone believed that about you. It wouldn't be fair, would it?" He seems intrigued and puzzled when she says they that could maybe be even more. "What do you mean?" he asks. "I want to know how I can be more than the friend I'm being now." 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha nods. "I think I maybe got that habit too. Cayde means well, and he tries so hard. I can see that he does. Gods I kinda see myself in him sometimes. I've been meaning to be able to talk to him, like without anyone else around. Because I think he acts a little differently when he's got anyone else watching his every move. But I'd like to just have a conversation with him. Let -him- express how he feels - though I think he has a hard time with that too." She offers this and then nods. "You're right. If the tables were turned, it truly wouldn't be fair. I think people need to be reminded of that. A person can't grow if they're being put down all the time." When he asks about what she means, Zetha actually blushes. "Well hanging out like this helps. Just being able to sit and talk. But I'd like to get to know you more. Maybe...and this is so not how it works in When Stars Collide but...maybe go out? Like on your boat, but this time not with any needed destination in mind. We could enjoy the water and time together. Hopefully without any interruption." Zetha. Can you not just say 'go on a date'? 

:'''{{#var:195|Amarik (195)}} has posed:''' "Yeah," he says, "I think that would be really good for him. And you," he says. "And reminding people would be good, too. I think that would mean a lot to him, if you stood up for him, once or twice, or even better, multiple times." Zetha may be happy to find that this seems to please him, greatly. He nods vigorously, his eyes light up, and he smiles broadly at her. He'd never done that before, and she might find herself realizing that he's even prettier when he's excited like this. He stands up, and starts hurrying towards the exit of the convent. "If we don't get to the dock in the next ten minutes, we'll miss the sunset!" 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "You're right. If anyone has been a mediocre friend to anyone it's me to Cayde. But you're right and I'll do that. Not only because you said it but because I agree and it needs to be done." Zetha offers this much and then lets the matter rest. If only because Crane is suddenly really excited. That smile alone tugs at her more than she maybe realized it would. Then he's standing and hurrying to leave! "Well wait a moment and at least let me follow you!" This said with laughter and joy in the words as she stands and hurries to follow him. 

:'''{{#var:195|Amarik (195)}} has posed:''' "No!" he says playfully, now full on running. "You're too slow!" But it's not like Zetha doesn't know where the docks are, it's just highly likely that he's gonna get there a full two or three minutes before she does. He'll already be on the boat when she arrives, but as luck would have it, the fuel reservoir is empty, and he'll still be filling it when she arrives. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "You're such a jerk!" Zetha calls back just as playfully while trying to keep up. It doesn't work. She's a couple minutes behind but then spies him filling the fuel resivoir. This at least allows her to catch her breath for a moment. "While we're on the subject of friendly things...I do want to make sure I know your boundaries. I know you like your privacy and I'm hopefully doing better at respecting that. But like now while we're here and hanging out and such... is NOW - or at least when you're done filling the tank - an okay time to hug you?" 

:'''{{#var:195|Amarik (195)}} has posed:''' He doesn't actually say anything when she asks about his boundaries, but there's a playful twinkle in his eyes when he looks over at her while filling the reservoir. Once he finishes, he'll shrug off his outer layer, revealing the sleeveless shirt he's wearing underneath and the very faint scar on his upper arm. Zetha might have recalled that one time he'd clearly been injured, somehow. But before she can say anything else, he wraps an arm around her waist while tossing the rope securing the boat to the pier post onto the dock. He smiles. "This is fine," he says. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha won't ask about the scar. Maybe sometime in the future, but not now. It may dampen the moment and she doesn't want that. Instead she'll watch as he finishes filling the tank and tosses that securing rope onto the dock. When he moves to wrap an arm around her, she'll shift and lean her head onto his shoulder. Shoulder? Arm? Wherever her head can rest depending on height difference. "Yeah. This is great." Letting them stay that way for a moment. "So. You know a good place to watch the sun set, eh?" 

:'''{{#var:195|Amarik (195)}} has posed:''' "Of course I do," he says, "I come out here on a weekly basis to see it. It's wonderful. Have you ever visited the pools on top of the trees?" he asks. "The best view is from up there." The boat will then jolt as it hits the current, and away they go. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "We might have to make this a regular occurence then. That I join you sometimes. If you wish." Zetha offers and then gives a shake of her head. "No. I don't regularly come to the woods..." And this is likely a huge step considering what happened the last time. "Well if we can make it, I can't wait to see it... but I think the view will be wonderful anywhere because we're sharing it together." 

:'''{{#var:195|Amarik (195)}} has posed:''' "I would like that," he says immediately, "you can come with me anytime you want," he says with a smile. He laughs. "We'll make it, don't worry." He seems flattered and embarrassed when she says it will be wonderful anywhere because they're sharing it together. "You're too kind," he says, averting his gaze bashfully. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "Careful. I may come so much you'll actually get sick of me being around!" Zetha says jokingly and then watches the scenery as it goes by while the boat travels along. "Just being honest." She says then which rolls right into her commenting, "We hang out enough times people might think we're dating." 

:'''{{#var:195|Amarik (195)}} has posed:''' "I won't," he reassures her. When she comments about them hanging out enough that people might thing they're dating, he shrugs. "So?" he says nonchalantly. "Is that a bad thing?" 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' And there it is. But is he asking because he -wants- them to be dating or just doesn't care what other people think. "Honestly, I don't think so. In truth...I guess it's more if someone like Navi, Cayde or even Doctor Cassias asks. What would we tell them? Which answer would be the truth?" 

:'''{{#var:195|Amarik (195)}} has posed:''' He suddenly stops piloting the boat, and he frowns. He seems pensive but also confused. "I don't know," he says. "What do you want?" 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "Maybe to give it some time. We like each other which is a start. I'm open to the possibility that this may turn into us dating. Which likely sounds like deflection...but I'm still working out some things. And I don't want to just jump into something. Time. Potential. People can think what they want. What matter is that we're on the same page." Zetha offers, feeling the little mood shift that she was hoping wouldn't happen. 

:'''{{#var:195|Amarik (195)}} has posed:''' "You want to... date me? Or no, you don't?" he says, incredulous. For some reason, this seems to be news to him. There's a pregnant pause, and he goes back to steering the boat, but his expression is pensive. "...right. It doesn't matter what other people think, it just matters what you want, and what we know to be true." 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "I do." Zetha says it firmly. Or she thinks she does. "But it's very new territory for me. To date anyone. To feel like I'm ready to date someone. It may not seem like it right now, but this whole conversation is terrifying for me to have. Cause it puts a bit on the line. But if you're open to the potential.." His other statement comes and she nods. "Yes. Just that." And then she tries to turn it all around again. "So. Sunset?" 

:'''{{#var:195|Amarik (195)}} has posed:''' "Oh," he says. He seems surprised. -Very- surprised, and speechless. "...I'm flattered. But I had no idea you wanted to date me," he says, "and I'm sorry, but I just don't --" But then suddenly, the boat dips, and there's some turbulence. His attention is diverted back to piloting, and he says, "We're about to go over the falls --" He pushes the repulsorlifts to max capacity, and then suddenly, they're nosediving at a 45 degree angle! 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' And there it is again. Zetha's mind can fill in the rest of what was going to come after 'just dont'. Not that she has any time to actually fill in the blank even mentally as the boat jerks and then they're going over the falls. She just grabs onto the nearest not-Crane object she might be able to grab onto so she doesn't go flying out of the boat herself. 

:'''{{#var:195|Amarik (195)}} has posed:''' Thankfully, the nosedive doesn't last for long. Before Zetha knows it, she's drenched and they're in a gorgeous, reflective pool of water on top of those massive flat topped trees that Tenoo is so famous for. The setting is serene, romantic - and the reflection of the sunset in the still water is gorgeous. Crane is up top, raising the sails so the boat slows its pace. Once he's finished, he looks down at her, offering her a faint smile, as he climbs down the mast to join her on the deck. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha smiles and then dips her head. "Look. I understand if you don't want to date me. Just...please don't stop being my friend. That's all I ask. That's probably more of what I need now than anything. Friends. So..." But the view is incredible in that sort of take your breath away kind of thing. If friends can enjoy this, then maybe things won't be so bad after all. "This view is incredible, and look how the water reflects the colors. It's absolutely gorgeous." 

:'''{{#var:195|Amarik (195)}} has posed:''' He doesn't say anything at first, but when she tries to change the subject and talk about the sunset, he doesn't look over at it. He's just looking at her. "Zetha," he says, "I want you to tell me how you really feel." "And be honest, please." 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' She actually frowns a little, and turns her attention to the sun while it slowly dips below the horizon. "I like you. A lot. I find myself smiling every time you message me. Those cute little additions to them that I still don't quite understand. You've been there for me for a lot, and you showed me a kindness even from the first moment we met at the convent. The fact that you've actually taken time to make sure I'm okay. That you miss me, and I miss you, when it's been a while since we've seen eachother." There's a pause as she looks over at him. Her own purple gaze sparkling with the fading sun. "You need to know that I am still working out some things with myself. Mentally and emotionally. So I can't, and won't, put anymore to it than that. I'm open to seeing if it could be more. That's how I feel." 

:'''{{#var:195|Amarik (195)}} has posed:''' His bemusement grows. "But what does that all mean?" he asks, his brows furrowing. "I meant, what are you feeling right now? You seem disappointed..." He goes to intertwine his fingers with hers, but still doesn't look over at the sunset. He's still watching her. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "I am. A little. Right before we went over the falls you were saying something. I said I wanted to date you and you apologized and said you just don't..." Zetha offers and then gives a chuckle. "I figured it was something like you don't see yourself dating right now. Or you just don't see me that way. Either of them are fine, of course. It's not the first time something similar has been said to me." This is when she looks to him. "Which is why I said...why I asked...that you don't stop being my friend. That this doesn't hurt anything between us. But it's just that whenever I feel like I've managed to maybe figure something out about feelings and friendship and relationships...I find that I might just be wrong. Which is on me. And that's okay." 

:'''{{#var:195|Amarik (195)}} has posed:''' He doesn't say anything. Instead, he reaches forward and lets the back of his hand trace her lekku, very gently, while he maintains eye contact. He then reaches into Zetha's mind, hoping to discern just how disappointed she was, or if he'd hurt her more than she was letting on... 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' That hand against her lekku has her giving a soft smile. Though their eyes are meeting, she's maybe searching into his for something. Hopefully acceptance, at the very least, that he's satisfied with her answer. As he reaches into her mind, the truth is apparent. The hurt stems from the fact that it's been done before. So she's honest that she's only a little disappointed between them, but there's a pain that does go a bit deeper. It's likely something she'll be talking to Doctor Cassias about sometime soon. Tell the people you love that you love them. But love - to Zetha - isn't as sectioned out as it should be. 

:'''{{#var:195|Amarik (195)}} has posed:''' For a moment, he just stands there, not knowing what to say or do. His brows furrow slightly, and if Zetha had to guess, it's a pensive look, like he's trying to figure out what he should say or do next. Maybe a minute elapses, or perhaps a few seconds. But what comes next will probably surprise Zetha. He leans towards her, hesitantly at first, but then attempts to kiss her. It's fumbling, awkward, but sincere... 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha watches him for the seconds or even minute that he's seeming to...think on things. Really think. She's not even sure if she should break the tension by saying something or just see what happens. A thought that goes overboard when she finds him leaning in and he's kissing her. Sure it's awkward and fumbly...but what first kisses aren't. Her response? She accepts the first attempt and likely adjusts just enough so that there can be a second one just after. A little less fumbly, maybe similarly awkward, but definitely just as sincere as the first. Her eyes close and everything! 

:'''{{#var:195|Amarik (195)}} has posed:''' After his first attempt, he seems embarrassed. "Sorry," he says, "that was bad, let me try again--" But then she just interrupts him by kissing him a second time. He'll be just as accepting of it as she was of the first one, as he wraps his arms around her shoulders and pulls her in close. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' That second kiss doesn't linger for too terribly long, breaking off gently from it as he pulls her close. Zetha wraps her arms around him in return and holds close to him as well. "Second one wasn't too bad, I don't think." She whispers since she's so close to him. Now this is the awkward moment where she doesn't want to hang on for too long, but also not to pull away too soon. But she does, eventually, shift to pull away just so and one hand drifts back to intwine fingers with his own again. "So. Is this when I get to turn the tables on you and ask how you're feeling right now. And to be honest with me?" She grins. "Seems only fair." 

:'''{{#var:195|Amarik (195)}} has posed:''' Again, he doesn't say anything for a few moments. He just stares into space, brows furrowed. He seems overwhelmed, but isn't voicing it. At least not yet, anyway. Finally, he says, "I was going to say, I just don't know how." There's another pregnant pause. "I've never had anyone want to date me, and like me, too. The first girl who kissed me, well, I'm pretty sure she hates me now." "I don't want to accidentally hurt you. I just want you to be happy. What I want outside of that doesn't matter that much--" 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "If it makes you feel any better, the first kiss I ever had was with the same Mandalorian I now need to infiltrate and cooerce into taking me to his labratory...so..." Zetha gives a grin and then a shrug. "I am happy. Happier than I've been in the past. And I need you to know and understand that I am still working on various parts of myself. I'm not perfect, but no one is. And this...one step at a time. Because that's all we can really ever take. We'll stumble together, I'm sure, but...I'm excited to see where it goes..." She then shifts to rest her head on his chest a moment. "As far as first dates go...this is high up on the list." 

:'''{{#var:195|Amarik (195)}} has posed:''' "Okay," he says, although he sounds a little uncertain. But then after she moves to rest her head on his chest, he says more confidently, "Right. That's good." He awkwardly places an arm around her shoulder, and has to readjust after a moment to make the placement of his arm less uncomfortable. Eventually, he sits down, letting her lean on him as he finally turns to watch the sunset. "I'm glad you're happy," he says softly. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha shifts to sit with him, lean on him, and she actually takes in a breath and lets it out just before relaxing against him a bit more. "Well. You're happy too right? I mean...you're like the other half of all this so things you want or think or feel are going to matter. And we've kinda only focused on how -I- feel." She offers this, still tucked close, and just trying to have a conversation. "That is a really pretty sunset though." Says the roller coaster of emotional wonders. 

:'''{{#var:195|Amarik (195)}} has posed:''' He pauses, frowning pensively for a moment. "...yes." Then, more confidently, "Yes." He gets up, reaches into the water and pulls up a lotus flower and sticks it in her lekku. "It is," he says, then kisses her cheek. "But not as pretty as you." 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' The first time he sort of had to correct his reply, Zetha could over look it. The fact that he's done it a few times now has her worried. "Are you alright? You seem like you're unsure of things...." Like, she doesn't want this to be happening simply because it would make her happy. She can become happy again after being disappointed. But questioning him seems rude after everything. "Crane I need you to be honest with yourself and me. Is this something you truly want?" 

:'''{{#var:195|Amarik (195)}} has posed:''' "I think so," he says, but this time he doesn't hesitate. "All I know is that right now, this is nice. What I had in the past, wasn't. Will it stay that way? Probably. But only mystics can discern what the future is through the Force, and even they cannot always be certain and are often called kooks." He sits down next to her again, and rests his head on her shoulder this time, watching for the rest of the few minutes before the sun dips below the horizon. Then he gets up and goes over to the yoke of the boat and pilots them into a small side channel that will take them back to Kublop. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha nods. That's enough for her and the lack of hesitation makes her feel better. The moment that they spend together watching the sunset is nice and then he's getting up and taking them back to Kublop. The smile on Zetha's face doesn't fade at all, and she overall seems happier than she's been in the last several days if not weeks. "I've got a few projects going on at the junkyard. I only say that because I can get really into the work and then wind up passing out there. But I think I could come back to the convent if you really miss me that much." 

:'''{{#var:195|Amarik (195)}} has posed:''' He nods. "It's okay," he says, "it would be nice if you came back, but you don't have to if you feel like you need to stay at the junkyard for Wiis," he says. Once they arrive back at the docks, it's half past eleven. He walks with her until they're off the pier, then hesitates, not sure if she'll go with him back to the convent, or head back to the junkyard. "... should I kiss you goodnight?" he asks awkwardly. "Sorry--" 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha will likely come back to the convent. She misses it. It's closer to some of her favorite places and people. As they arrive back to the docks and he walks her to the end of the pier she'll glance to him and then gives a little blush. "Why are you sorry? I figured I'd at least come spend the night with you at the convent. So you can kiss me goodnight there before we sleep in our respective corners." 

:'''{{#var:195|Amarik (195)}} has posed:''' "Ah, it sounded stupid after I asked," he admits, averting his gaze, looking embarrassed. He nods, and then takes her hand as they walk back to the convent together. 
}}

Do You Want to Punch Him

2025-11-05T22:04:39Z

Andromeda:

{{Log Header
|Date of Scene=2025-10-30
|Cast of Characters=159, 418, 296, 261, 143, 444, 321
|pretty=yes
|Location=Kublop Springs - Tenoo - Outer Rim
}}
{{Poses
|Poses=:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Night has fallen on Tenoo. The two moons have risen, and midnight is looming only an hour away. Despite this, the Mandalorians are likely awake, aware, and have business to conduct. Earlier that day, they'd taken the Baron Kasseady hostage, having found him and who would appear to be his twin brother, Caine, in the gorge. Now, the time has come for answers. Hopefully. 

:'''{{#var:418|Jorn (418)}} has posed:''' Something about this doesn't sit right. Jorn will try to run any scan or censor test Ellari's ship has available. Plus, both will be bound and restrainted. The mando would do everything in his power to make sure of that. Still, he's trying to make sure these two are who they claim to be. Finding them naked feels too weird and easy to be true. 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     Answers indeed. The two of them have been dragged back to the Amber Clad. At least she provided them with some spare sets of underwear, so that they can at least have some measure of dignity. She's not -that- depraved.     Anyway, she cuts straight to the chase. "So...I've heard one of you is only a year old." she tells them, her gaze moving between them. "Maybe it's just a rumor, but it has to have come from somewhere. Still, I heard there is a Jedi here who can discern truth from lie. If I were you, I would much rather volunteer the truth, than have it forced out of me." 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' Navi has been aboard since the two were brought back. "That thing about the Jedi? It's true," she says, supporting Ellari. "It's also rumored to be pretty unpleasant to have him rooting around in your mind." She's not about to mention that it's Cayde, and that he just can't discern personal privacy from public record... why would /that/ make them talk? 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "I'm cold," one of them says petulantly. Perhaps he really is only one year old. "I said I'd give you answers, after being provided a bath and clean clothes. Neither of which you've provided." He looks to Jorn, and then Ellari. For now, the other remains silent, and dejected. 

:'''{{#var:418|Jorn (418)}} has posed:''' Jorn wrestles with visions of a large cold water supply and a fire brigade hose. "I'm waiting on some results first. Then we'll bathe you, cloth you and you'll sing like a hungry porg," Jorn says back matter of factly as he waits for the scanners to come back with some answers. 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     "The mind is such a terrible thing to lose, isn't it?" Ellari remarks, smirking and folding her arms. "Arms, legs, even an eye can be replaced with cybernetics, but the mind?" she shakes her head. "Either way, the truth will come out, whether willingly or unwillingly." 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "Going by what I'm seeing, it's going to be unwillingly," Navi observes. "So what exactly is the story with these guys? If this is a 'Shut up, Navi' moment, just say so, and Shut Up Navi will shut up." 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' The one speaking frowns. He clearly doesn't find Jorn's jokes funny. "What results?" he says. When Ellari comments about replacing limbs with cybernetics, he just regards her coolly, showing no emotion. "I'm not a bargaining chip you should displease," he says. "If I lose my mind, you'll get nothing." The other finally looks up, his expression desperate. "No, please! Don't hurt him. We.. we can come to an agreement." "Don't talk about us like we're not here," the first one who'd started speaking says to Navi. "You could just ask." Meanwhile, back at the junkyard, Zetha is likely either finished with working on the drill bit, or will still be laboring away when she'll hear a knock at the door. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde had been helping Zetha with the drill back at the junkyard. The Force does come in handy, when you're dealing with putting a puzzle of some kind back together. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha is just putting the last bits of the drill piece together when she hears the knock at the door. "Be right back." She says to Cayde while standing and moving to the door itself. Like before, she only opens it a crack. Still being very cautious of who is there - because if she has only a split second to see and then slam and lock the door if it's an unwanted person - a peek behind the curtain is better than letting it be wide open. 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     "Well, maybe. Maybe not. Maybe we'll get the truth, and -then- you'll lose your mind. I still haven't decided if it's worth the risk." Ellari replies, shrugging. Then she turns to the one who begged. "An agreement, you say?" 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "I wasn't talking to you. I was talking to /them/," Navi says to the cranky one, leaving it at that. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "Zetha!" The voice is familiar. "I miss you. Are you coming back to convent soon?" She'll immediately recognize the voice, it's Crane. Well, that was hasty. It'd only been a few hours, since he'd last checked in with her. He chuckles. "And if I lose my mind -before- you get the truth?" He looks over at Navi. "What good does that do you? They don't have answers. I do. I'm only here because I -want- to be here." The other licks his lips. He really has nothing to offer Ellari. He's naked, afraid, and alone. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' The door opens a little more as she recognizes Crane's voice. "I already told you. I don't know. I'll have to think on it. Wiis is in -danger-... if you haven't heard. I can't just...leave her..." Zetha's more awake now. Alert. That nap did her some good after all. "Hell for all I know me being at the convent could put the convent in danger. I had my life threatened not so long ago, Crane. I can't put people in danger. I won't." Though she moves out of the way then. "You're welcome to come in though." 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Oh, him again? Cayde rolls his eyes. This two-personas thing was getting rather awkward. What would Zetha think once she learned the truth? Eventually...     He goes back to focusing on putting more pieces of the drill equipment back into each other. 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     "Like I said, it's a risk. But, if it's that or nothing, I don't have much of a choice on chancing it, now do I?" Ellari points out to him. "You want to be here? Well, I'm glad for it, then." 

:'''{{#var:418|Jorn (418)}} has posed:''' Jorn looks toward Ellari, "What should we do with them. I mean we can get some truth serum or something similar to that?" he asks softly and looks back at the pair. 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "Because I don't really care that much. This is a Mandalorian issue. I don't much care who you are, as long as you're locked up here looking stupid and not causing trouble in my jurisdiction. Unless it comes out that you were involved in a crime on this planet, in which case we're going to talk," Navi replies, shrugging at the loud one. She looks to the silent one thoughtfully. "I'd guess he's the one that's only a year old. They only really get willfully obnoxious at three years old... which sort of opens the question about how old the /other/ one is..." 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' The young Tholothian immediately pushes into the room, and embraces Zetha tightly. "I know," he says, "You told me. But if being at the convent puts me in danger, then doesn't that mean that you being -here- puts Wiis in danger? You can't win at this game, Zetha. It doesn't matter where you go, until you finish the task or get someone else to do it, you'll be living in fear." Then he hugs her even tighter. "Or you could just not worry about it. If he hasn't bothered you about it at all since, then maybe he's just forgotten about it. I saw all the marauders go back into the Gorge earlier today, anyway. Clearly they have other more important matters to worry about." Just then, Zetha's communicator buzzes. It's a text transmission from the doctor. <Zetha, I just received word from Thaarin that they found a couple of Mandalorians in the Gorge and he's speculated that they might be strongly connected to 'Jasper.' I'm coming up to Kublop to investigate. Mondrian, Veena, and Thaarin are going to accompany me and we all think you should probably come along as well. I'm going to notify Navi and Cayde as well> Navi and Cayde will then hear their comms buzz, as well. The one doing most of the yapping finally looks at Ellari and Jorn directly. "I want to see the Dark Saber," he suddenly says. "I just want to know that it's real. Then I'll tell you everything." The other one seems to be in disbelief. "...what??" 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     Ellari shrugs at the request and glances over at Jorn. That's his jurisdiction, and she'll let him make that decision on his own.     As for what to do with them... "I don't have any 'truth serum' on hand, other than that...boy, I suppose. The Jedi." 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "Padawan Alexis," Navi supplies to Ellari. Then her comlink buzzes, and she reaches for it. "Yes?" 

:'''{{#var:418|Jorn (418)}} has posed:''' "If the Jedi can scan them. Figure out their story. Why they were stripped. Something, anything," he says openly figuring out that would be a good way to start things. If he didn't need them alive, Jorn would have used two blaster bolts to get rid of a couple of headaches. He leans on Ellari's ship where Ellari, Jorn and their captives currently are amongst others. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha returns the hug, but only briefly, before she steps back again. "He didn't threaten you. Or the convent. He threatened me. And Wiis. So me being here doesn't put her in any more or less danger. And if I'm -here- I can at least do my best to protect her." Zetha says and then scoffs at the other comment he makes. "He can leave the gorge just as easily as any other place. I-I don't..." But then her comm buzzes and she looks down to read it. Then she frowns but she replies <Okay. Let me know where I need to be and when.> She then looks back over at 'Crane'. "But when I say that I don't know and I'll think about it, you can't just come here a few hours later and ask the same question. I don't want to put you or the convent in danger...and danger is just what I might bring if I go back. So I'm going to stay away from the convent for a while. It's for everyone's good." Then she motions. "I need to go make sure Cayde isn't managing to bust his hands or something..." And then she turns to walk back over to the drill they've been putting together. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde notices the commlink going off, and he looks at it. He replies with a simple < Okay >     Then he goes back to working on the drill. They were almost done, anyway. He just needed to hold these last few pieces in awkward places so that Zetha could weld them back. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "Navi," the doctor says, "where are you? I just got word from Thaarin about those Mandalorians who were found in the Gorge. I'm coming to investigate. Please make sure Cayde is around for it, as well. Mondrian, Veena, and Thaarin are going to accompany me as well. I hope you don't mind." "Look," the quieter one finally says, struggling against his bonds. "what don't you understand? We found ourselves lost in the Gorge, and encountered a mad witch. We displeased her somehow, I'm not sure how or why. Then she cursed us by removing all of our clothing and belongings. Why do you want to know that? What good does it do you? You want to search for the witch, and take our belongings as well??? Good luck with that. Good -kriffing- luck!" The one who'd asked about the dark saber once again reiterates his desire to see it. "Let me see it," he barks. "The dark saber! You don't have even have to unbind me. I just want to ... see it. Let me see it!!!" he growls desperately. "..." The young Tholothian man actually looks... hurt? "I'm sorry. What do you need from me right now?" he calls after her. "I thought you liked me. But if you want me to leave you alone, then I'll leave you alone." 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' The ship groans as Volken makes his way into it. It might groan again if Er'gi arrives but it's hard to 'out groan' Volken. Especially if he's in a bad mood and lately...he usually has been. He remoes his helmet for the first time in some while, shaking out his mass of dark hair and then reaching a hand up to drag it across his brickish jaw and the beard that's haphazardly forming in various untrimmed ways...and then he starts towards the others after setting his gigantic repeater cannons down. "Alright.. so we got 'em. So now what? Cowardly one is Kassady. Bold one is Caine except apparently he's only a year old according to the jedi boy. So - explanations? Do we contact Thaelin and get some family history?" As the one he's designated as Caine begins making demands, Volken turns slowly in his direction and asks, "Do you want to punch him? If not sure show it to him but I suggest you back up...over there. Let him get a good distance look at it. He's been obessesed with this thing so something's clearly up." 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha stops in her tracks and turns around to face 'Crane' again. "Don't you dare do that to me. If you're going to kick me when I'm down, then you can surely turn your butt around and go back to the convent and your life of peace and tranquility. I'm knee deep in muck and mire right now I do NOT need another person toying with my feelings or making me feel guilty when I have nothing to be guilty for." She turns then and keeps walking until she's back with Cayde and the drill. "I might need to go meet Doctor Cassias and some others...though I don't know if it'll be sooner or later, but he's heading into Kublop Springs, and I'd like to be at the station to greet him. Do you want to come with?" Asking this to Cayde. 

:'''{{#var:418|Jorn (418)}} has posed:''' Jorn just ignores every request about the Dark Saber. "That's what we're trying to figure out. Why one looks young when it comes to scans, but looks older than that," Jorn looks to the pair for a moment. "Something feels off. I mean, did he create clone decoys?" that's Jorn's theory. It would be a good way to throw people off the trails. Subjects like transfer of conscience seem a little toof ar off for him. "I mean, you know Caine's history, right? You know a bit of it. You know what the scans aren't saying. OR at least, what they're seemingly getting wrong," and that's what makes the gear in Jorn's head going. He's not sure why a scan, so rooted in science, be wrong when it comes to the age. 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     Ellari shrugs at Volken's suggestion of punching. "Do -you- want to punch him?" She arches a brow at the one who seems so desperate to see the Darksaber. "What's the rush?" she asks. "Do you doubt our very history? Or do you doubt that it's here? Why does it matter so much to you?"     She nods to Jorn. "Hmph, that would be consistent with the Jedi's observations, certainly. And I wouldn't put such unorthodox methods past him. So tell me, are you -really- Caine Von'egel? Or just a knock-off copy of him?" 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde nods, putting the partially assembled drill down carefully. [You should know...Zealot will not harm] he tries to assure her. 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "Hello, Volken. I think Cayde went to the junkyard with Zetha, if you're looking for him," Navi says from her perch near the two near-naked prisoners. One of whom could stand a good slap in her opinion... 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Crane shrugs. He doesn't seem upset or angry by Zetha's biting words. "What? Why would I try to make you feel bad for not liking me? I wouldn't blame you if you'd decided to not like me. I don't make close friends easily, and that's not anyone else's problem but my own." "I'm sorry if I hurt you, if you want me to leave you alone, then I will," He says softly, without animosity or malice. "And I think that the co-deputy is right. You won't be harmed. I have a feeling," he says, "that everyone and everything will be alright." Then he offers her a small smile, bows and says, "May the Force be with you, Zetha. I wish you peace, happiness, and serenity." Then he turns to leave. "I don't know," He announces, "I want to see the Dark Saber," he insists again. "And I want -help-." His eyes flash. Navi, Cayde, and Zetha will then get a text transmission from the doctor, notifying them that he and the others are due to arrive in about five to ten minutes, and he'd like to know where he should meet them... 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' "Well he could confirm things but maybe it's best he stays out of his head. Might be contagious, whever's going on in there." observes Volken as he hears Navi. "No, not really." he says towards Ellari at that point. "Was just offering." Volken sets his helmet down and steps forward to get a closer look. "He's -always- been interested in the saber from the sounds of it. Didn't he -steal- it before? Didn't Fett get it back in that mess that led to Revara bein' on Coruscant? I didn't get all the details. Now -this- whole mess with Jorn and over Revara no less? What're we missing here? There has to have been a real Caine... Maybe there still is somewhere... Maybe..." He pauses keeping his next thought to himself and then simply looks to Kassady, "You got more answers then you're letting on here. -Talk- -SIng- Do -somethng- instead of bein' useless so we can sort this nonsense out. " 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha tilts her head at Cayde in a curious manner. [How do you know?] Because being told that the one who held a pistol to your head is not going to harm you is pretty...weird...to her. She's about to say something else to Cayde when she hears Crane speaking again. Closing her eyes she takes in a breath as she hears the next thing Crane says. It hurts, but she doesn't know what to say here. So she doesn't say anything. One more person walking out of her life isn't going to change her current circumstances. When she opens her eyes again, she gives a smile to Cayde that doesn't reach her eyes. Then that communication comes through and she shakes her head before typing into her comm in reply to the doctor <Cayde and I will meet you at the station. We're heading there now.> 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     "Help with -what-?" Ellari asks, arching a brow at him. "You're going to have to be more specific than that."     She gives a Volken a look, smirking slightly at his answer. If he didn't want to do it, why even offer to begin with? But she doesn't push it for now.     "If we're dealing with some kind of clone, then there must be a lab somewhere on Tenoo..." she notes, her gaze going over to Navi. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde watches 'Crane' leave. Perhaps it was for the best. For now, anyway. [The Force is my ally] he replies to Zetha's question rather vaguely. [He will not harm you]     He glances down at the message coming through, reading it but not responding. 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "Those shifty Arkanian scientists at Whatever Bend have a lab close to the Vergence," Navi observes. "If I was going to point a finger at anyone being too interested in cloning around here, it would be them." 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Kasseady bares his teeth at Volken. "I don't have any answers for you!!" He shouts angrily. "What do you want me to say? That I know my brother is here, on Tenoo, hiding out in the inn just across the street!? That would be a cowardly attempt to lie to save my own skin, hut'uun!!" He then slumps against his cuffs. "I don't know anything," he laments. "I wish I did. I came here hoping to restore my reputation in the wake of the wreck he left me in. Now I'm left with less than I came with, which was nothing but the clothes off my back and my armor..." "The only thing I know for certain is that... that person. That ... -thing-. Is not my brother. I can feel it in my blood. He is not agol." The other bound hostage glares at Kass, but offers no words. "Let me see the Dark Saber," he insists again. The doctor then messages both Navi, Cayde, and Zetha. <See you all soon, then?> Hopefully at least Zetha will show at the tram station when the doctor arrives... 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "I'm aboard the Mandalorians' ship, Doctor. They're interrogating the two prisoners. It's been both hilarious and unnerving," Navi replies to the Doctor over the comlink. "Have a safe trip." 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha nods to Cayde. "Well. If you say so...doesn't mean I'm going to immediately drop my guard..." She offers this much and then motions to him. "Come on. It's about a five minute walk to the station from here and we have just about that much time to get there." She then offers him a smile before taking a breath. "And thanks. For the nap, and for sticking around. Your company was appreciated and enjoyed." With that, she heads towards leaving and going to the station, hopefully with Cayde none too far behind her. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde nods. [Any time] he offers, when she thanks for him helping her sleep. He then follows her to the station to meet Soren. 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     Well, at least Kass was smart enough to figure -that-. Ellari nods at Navi. "Well then, I say we take him to said lab, and demand the truth from said Arkanians." Simple as that. And it'd be even simpler with Volken around. "If they're working for the -real- Caine, then it's as good a lead as any on finding him." 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' Kassady admitting that aloud...seems to have done what Volken was hoping for. He nods his head and straightens back up and steps away from him to then turn towards the others. "Alright." he rumbles. "And I changed my mind. Don't let him see the Dark Saber. This thing is probably booby trapped or something. MIght turn into some sort of winged fire breathing monster once he lays eyes on it... But we at leas tknow that there -is- a Caine which is what I was worried about but fine. One conspiracy down, twenty to go." He then turns and gestures at Kassady, "We should give him a chance to earn his honor back and find out what happened to his brother." He turns towards Kassady, "You got that? YOu're not gonna go callin' home and tryin' to go tell on us ...are ya? You wanna know what happened to your brother as much as we, right?" 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' <I'll meet you there, then> The doctor notifies Navi. Moments, later he's stepping off the tram, and he sees Zetha and Cayde approaching. His gaze flicks from one to another. "How are you two holding up?" he asks softly, reaching over to pat Cayde on the shoulder gently. Thaarin, Veena, and Mondrian are tailing him, but he gestures for them to go on ahead. "Navi's at Ellari's ship," he says, "I'll catch up with you all there in a bit," he says. Thaarin kindly greets Zetha and Cayde before he's hurried off by Mondrian and Veena, who just give the young padawan cold looks. The one insisting to see the Dark Saber goes silent, but his expressions hardens and becomes angry and weirdly distant. Something is definitely off with him. Kasseady scoffs at Volken. "And how the hell would I go about doing that? I have no armor, no clothing, and I can't even be certain my own ship is where I left it." 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha smiles at Soren and inclines her head to him. "Doing better." She offers this and then gives a little smile and wave at Thaarin just before he's rushed off with the other two. Though she notes that cold stare given to Cayde and raises a brow before shaking her head. "I mean, aside from upsetting 'Crane' because I can't seem to be able to go a week without pissing someone off." She shrugs it off though. "Anyway and besides, what do you need? How can I help?" 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     [I am okay] Cayde replies to Soren's question, again rather vaguely as he often does. The cold glares from the detectives don't come as a surprise to him. 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     Ellari rolls her eyes, not approving of giving Kass this 'chance'. She scoffs. "What reputation? What honor? You had none to begin with."     "We should take him to these scientists and force them to come clean." 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' "I dunno how but I still had to ask so you can't say I didn't. Yer ship's fine .. aside from the dent i put into it when I punched it. Should still be space worthy though. I pulled my punch... We'll get you some clothes so you got some dignigty and figure out your armor later. We can't have that just wanderin' around to fall into non Mandalorian hands but first you help figure out whose after the Dark Saber and maybe they'll stop laughin' you right out of Sundari for your part in all of this..." He waves a hand, dismissively. Negotations, such as they were, are over. "Pretty much." he then says to Ellari, "One more body on our side i case things go wrong. one more person to get shot at, eh?" 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' The doctor sighs. He seems rather dissatisfied with Cayde's response. "We're going to talk later," he says to Cayde. Then he turns to Zetha. "Zetha, this isn't the time to be pretending. We're past the point of facades, remember? I know there's important work to be done but none of us can afford for you to not be mentally and emotionally ready for it. What happened with Crane? What is he upset at you for?" He continues walking, heading in the general direction of the starport, where the Amber Clad is stationed. "You -dented- my ship!?" Kasseady lets out a string of unrepeatable Mando'a curses out loud. "After this is all over, you're going to pay for all this. I'll make you regret the day you were born!" 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "If it were a facade, I would be telling you everything is fine and there's nothing to worry about. Crane wants me back at the convent. I told him I would think about it. Then he asked again. So I told him that I had to protect Wiis, and I didn't want to put the convent in danger. And then he made some remark about how if I don't like him and want him out of my life then he'll leave." Zetha shrugs then. There's more to it, but she can put it aside. It's not important. Surely not as important as the state Crane will be in mentally if she ever finds out the whole truth about him being Zealot. "Anyway. He also acted kinda weird and like...he didn't have any concern that my life was threatened. Which is weird to me. But that's something for future me to worry on. Present me is ready for whatever you need me for." 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     [Okay] Cayde replies, although his expression is downcast. Not that he really -looks- upset, but he certainly doesn't look happy, either. But he almost always looks something like this. When Zetha mentions Crane's behavior was odd, he just looks away. 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' "It was only a little dent." protests Volken, not sounding worried in the slightest. "You know. Just a bit bigger then my fist. It gives the ship character." 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     Ellari just rolls her eyes even harder at this. "Do you see now what I meant by 'what honor'?" she asks, glancing at Volken. "The hut'uun had none to begin with, anyway." 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "Zetha," Soren says frankly. "Respectfully, you cannot protect Wiis. I cannot protect Wiis. That's Cayde, Navi and the other Jedis' job. And I don't want you to try to. You'll get hurt, and so will Wiis." He shakes his head at Zetha. "I am going to be honest, I don't find that terribly unusual. Jedha is full of pious sorts who dedicate themselves to studying and worshipping the light side of the Force. He probably said something about the will of the Force being what it is, didn't he? It's... typical. They believe in some greater purpose, and that everything that happens is just supposed to happen, and we should accept our fates. The Jedi are a perfect example of this. You're not likely going to find them showing any kind of exaggerated emotion, ever. Even if some planet is on the verge of imploding and billions of lives are at stake." He suddenly looks weary, and glances over at Cayde briefly. Then the look is gone. "It doesn't mean that he doesn't care. And if you still care about him, then you should tell him." He pauses. "Don't wait, Zetha. For the love of light and all that's good, don't wait to tell the people you love that you love them. You might not have tomorrow." At that moment, Thaarin, Mondrian and Veena arrive at the Amber Clad. The tall blue alien flashes a charming smile at Ellari and waves. "I think we've found ourselves unlikely allies," he says to her, "the doctor has come up from the colony to help examine and discuss that rather interesting hostage you're keeping aboard your ship. We could find a time a chat, and soon, I should hope." 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha's not dumb. She notices how Cayde looks away when she brought up Crane's behavior. Adding that to the fact that Cayde told her Zealot wasn't going to harm her. Sure Cayde had promised he'd protect her but... "Cayde? What is it? Do you know something?" Because she's gotten to know Cayde a bit, and this is definitely Cayde's I know something but I'm not saying anything look. "I..." There's a pause and then she slumps almost dejectedly. "I have to keep her safe. I have to make sure Zealot doesn't just show up randomly and wind up killing her if I'm not there because he's upset with me. I can protect her that much." She then gives a look to Soren when he talks about Crane and then shakes her head. "Alright. I get it. But something still felt odd about it. I do like him though, he's a great guy. And I think it's more they don't outwardly show their emotions. The Crane I talk to in person can be a lot different than the one I text on occassion." She chuckles at that and then shrugs. "I'm not putting my personal issues in front of a very real and active situation. I'll resolve it, I always wind up doing so. Now will you please tell me what we're doing?" 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     [...know something what] Cayde asks, trying to give the impression that he doesn't know what she's talking about. However, his expression has not changed. He isn't sure if telling her the truth would make matters better or worse quite yet. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     [...know something what] Cayde asks, trying to give the impression that he doesn't know what she's talking about. However, his expression has not changed. He isn't sure if telling her the truth would make matters better or worse quite yet. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "If Zealot wanted to kill Wiis, there wouldn't be anything you could personally do to stop him. If he was going to kill her because he's upset with you, I doubt there'd be much you could do to dissuade him from doing so at that point. But I don't feel like I need to be telling you this, you know it, deep down. You just hate the idea of not being able to protect her from a situation that you perceive as being created by you." "What happened, happened. There was a fundamental disagreement about what was right and what was wrong, and even I myself am not sure entirely what the right decision was. Either way, you can't change the past, so don't rue over events that can't be changed. Learn from the past, keep moving forward, that's all." He then waves a hand dismissively at Zetha. "You are," he says, "because I am telling you as your therapist that you need to. You need to sort this out before you do anything else. Go find Crane, talk to him. Tell him how you really feel, even if you aren't entirely sure how to say it. You still need to try, the effort is what matters." He then starts heading for the starport. "I'll brief you later on my findings. I'm going to stay the night, and perhaps the next so there will be plenty of time to discuss next steps regarding the Mandalorians." He then looks to Cayde. "Let's go," he says, "we should go meet up with the others. And you, Navi, Zetha, and I are all going to sit down and have a talk later, too. There's that as well." 
}}

Do You Want to Punch Him

2025-11-05T22:04:12Z

Andromeda: Created page with "{{Log Header |Date of Scene=2025-10-30 |Cast of Characters=159, 418, 296, 261, 143, 444, 321 |pretty=yes }} {{Poses |Poses=:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Night has fallen on Tenoo. The two moons have risen, and midnight is looming only an hour away. Despite this, the Mandalorians are likely awake, aware, and have business to conduct. Earlier that day, they'd taken the Baron Kasseady hostage, having found him and who would appear to be hi..."

{{Log Header
|Date of Scene=2025-10-30
|Cast of Characters=159, 418, 296, 261, 143, 444, 321
|pretty=yes
}}
{{Poses
|Poses=:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Night has fallen on Tenoo. The two moons have risen, and midnight is looming only an hour away. Despite this, the Mandalorians are likely awake, aware, and have business to conduct. Earlier that day, they'd taken the Baron Kasseady hostage, having found him and who would appear to be his twin brother, Caine, in the gorge. Now, the time has come for answers. Hopefully. 

:'''{{#var:418|Jorn (418)}} has posed:''' Something about this doesn't sit right. Jorn will try to run any scan or censor test Ellari's ship has available. Plus, both will be bound and restrainted. The mando would do everything in his power to make sure of that. Still, he's trying to make sure these two are who they claim to be. Finding them naked feels too weird and easy to be true. 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     Answers indeed. The two of them have been dragged back to the Amber Clad. At least she provided them with some spare sets of underwear, so that they can at least have some measure of dignity. She's not -that- depraved.     Anyway, she cuts straight to the chase. "So...I've heard one of you is only a year old." she tells them, her gaze moving between them. "Maybe it's just a rumor, but it has to have come from somewhere. Still, I heard there is a Jedi here who can discern truth from lie. If I were you, I would much rather volunteer the truth, than have it forced out of me." 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' Navi has been aboard since the two were brought back. "That thing about the Jedi? It's true," she says, supporting Ellari. "It's also rumored to be pretty unpleasant to have him rooting around in your mind." She's not about to mention that it's Cayde, and that he just can't discern personal privacy from public record... why would /that/ make them talk? 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "I'm cold," one of them says petulantly. Perhaps he really is only one year old. "I said I'd give you answers, after being provided a bath and clean clothes. Neither of which you've provided." He looks to Jorn, and then Ellari. For now, the other remains silent, and dejected. 

:'''{{#var:418|Jorn (418)}} has posed:''' Jorn wrestles with visions of a large cold water supply and a fire brigade hose. "I'm waiting on some results first. Then we'll bathe you, cloth you and you'll sing like a hungry porg," Jorn says back matter of factly as he waits for the scanners to come back with some answers. 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     "The mind is such a terrible thing to lose, isn't it?" Ellari remarks, smirking and folding her arms. "Arms, legs, even an eye can be replaced with cybernetics, but the mind?" she shakes her head. "Either way, the truth will come out, whether willingly or unwillingly." 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "Going by what I'm seeing, it's going to be unwillingly," Navi observes. "So what exactly is the story with these guys? If this is a 'Shut up, Navi' moment, just say so, and Shut Up Navi will shut up." 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' The one speaking frowns. He clearly doesn't find Jorn's jokes funny. "What results?" he says. When Ellari comments about replacing limbs with cybernetics, he just regards her coolly, showing no emotion. "I'm not a bargaining chip you should displease," he says. "If I lose my mind, you'll get nothing." The other finally looks up, his expression desperate. "No, please! Don't hurt him. We.. we can come to an agreement." "Don't talk about us like we're not here," the first one who'd started speaking says to Navi. "You could just ask." Meanwhile, back at the junkyard, Zetha is likely either finished with working on the drill bit, or will still be laboring away when she'll hear a knock at the door. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde had been helping Zetha with the drill back at the junkyard. The Force does come in handy, when you're dealing with putting a puzzle of some kind back together. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha is just putting the last bits of the drill piece together when she hears the knock at the door. "Be right back." She says to Cayde while standing and moving to the door itself. Like before, she only opens it a crack. Still being very cautious of who is there - because if she has only a split second to see and then slam and lock the door if it's an unwanted person - a peek behind the curtain is better than letting it be wide open. 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     "Well, maybe. Maybe not. Maybe we'll get the truth, and -then- you'll lose your mind. I still haven't decided if it's worth the risk." Ellari replies, shrugging. Then she turns to the one who begged. "An agreement, you say?" 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "I wasn't talking to you. I was talking to /them/," Navi says to the cranky one, leaving it at that. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "Zetha!" The voice is familiar. "I miss you. Are you coming back to convent soon?" She'll immediately recognize the voice, it's Crane. Well, that was hasty. It'd only been a few hours, since he'd last checked in with her. He chuckles. "And if I lose my mind -before- you get the truth?" He looks over at Navi. "What good does that do you? They don't have answers. I do. I'm only here because I -want- to be here." The other licks his lips. He really has nothing to offer Ellari. He's naked, afraid, and alone. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' The door opens a little more as she recognizes Crane's voice. "I already told you. I don't know. I'll have to think on it. Wiis is in -danger-... if you haven't heard. I can't just...leave her..." Zetha's more awake now. Alert. That nap did her some good after all. "Hell for all I know me being at the convent could put the convent in danger. I had my life threatened not so long ago, Crane. I can't put people in danger. I won't." Though she moves out of the way then. "You're welcome to come in though." 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Oh, him again? Cayde rolls his eyes. This two-personas thing was getting rather awkward. What would Zetha think once she learned the truth? Eventually...     He goes back to focusing on putting more pieces of the drill equipment back into each other. 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     "Like I said, it's a risk. But, if it's that or nothing, I don't have much of a choice on chancing it, now do I?" Ellari points out to him. "You want to be here? Well, I'm glad for it, then." 

:'''{{#var:418|Jorn (418)}} has posed:''' Jorn looks toward Ellari, "What should we do with them. I mean we can get some truth serum or something similar to that?" he asks softly and looks back at the pair. 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "Because I don't really care that much. This is a Mandalorian issue. I don't much care who you are, as long as you're locked up here looking stupid and not causing trouble in my jurisdiction. Unless it comes out that you were involved in a crime on this planet, in which case we're going to talk," Navi replies, shrugging at the loud one. She looks to the silent one thoughtfully. "I'd guess he's the one that's only a year old. They only really get willfully obnoxious at three years old... which sort of opens the question about how old the /other/ one is..." 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' The young Tholothian immediately pushes into the room, and embraces Zetha tightly. "I know," he says, "You told me. But if being at the convent puts me in danger, then doesn't that mean that you being -here- puts Wiis in danger? You can't win at this game, Zetha. It doesn't matter where you go, until you finish the task or get someone else to do it, you'll be living in fear." Then he hugs her even tighter. "Or you could just not worry about it. If he hasn't bothered you about it at all since, then maybe he's just forgotten about it. I saw all the marauders go back into the Gorge earlier today, anyway. Clearly they have other more important matters to worry about." Just then, Zetha's communicator buzzes. It's a text transmission from the doctor. <Zetha, I just received word from Thaarin that they found a couple of Mandalorians in the Gorge and he's speculated that they might be strongly connected to 'Jasper.' I'm coming up to Kublop to investigate. Mondrian, Veena, and Thaarin are going to accompany me and we all think you should probably come along as well. I'm going to notify Navi and Cayde as well> Navi and Cayde will then hear their comms buzz, as well. The one doing most of the yapping finally looks at Ellari and Jorn directly. "I want to see the Dark Saber," he suddenly says. "I just want to know that it's real. Then I'll tell you everything." The other one seems to be in disbelief. "...what??" 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     Ellari shrugs at the request and glances over at Jorn. That's his jurisdiction, and she'll let him make that decision on his own.     As for what to do with them... "I don't have any 'truth serum' on hand, other than that...boy, I suppose. The Jedi." 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "Padawan Alexis," Navi supplies to Ellari. Then her comlink buzzes, and she reaches for it. "Yes?" 

:'''{{#var:418|Jorn (418)}} has posed:''' "If the Jedi can scan them. Figure out their story. Why they were stripped. Something, anything," he says openly figuring out that would be a good way to start things. If he didn't need them alive, Jorn would have used two blaster bolts to get rid of a couple of headaches. He leans on Ellari's ship where Ellari, Jorn and their captives currently are amongst others. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha returns the hug, but only briefly, before she steps back again. "He didn't threaten you. Or the convent. He threatened me. And Wiis. So me being here doesn't put her in any more or less danger. And if I'm -here- I can at least do my best to protect her." Zetha says and then scoffs at the other comment he makes. "He can leave the gorge just as easily as any other place. I-I don't..." But then her comm buzzes and she looks down to read it. Then she frowns but she replies <Okay. Let me know where I need to be and when.> She then looks back over at 'Crane'. "But when I say that I don't know and I'll think about it, you can't just come here a few hours later and ask the same question. I don't want to put you or the convent in danger...and danger is just what I might bring if I go back. So I'm going to stay away from the convent for a while. It's for everyone's good." Then she motions. "I need to go make sure Cayde isn't managing to bust his hands or something..." And then she turns to walk back over to the drill they've been putting together. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde notices the commlink going off, and he looks at it. He replies with a simple < Okay >     Then he goes back to working on the drill. They were almost done, anyway. He just needed to hold these last few pieces in awkward places so that Zetha could weld them back. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "Navi," the doctor says, "where are you? I just got word from Thaarin about those Mandalorians who were found in the Gorge. I'm coming to investigate. Please make sure Cayde is around for it, as well. Mondrian, Veena, and Thaarin are going to accompany me as well. I hope you don't mind." "Look," the quieter one finally says, struggling against his bonds. "what don't you understand? We found ourselves lost in the Gorge, and encountered a mad witch. We displeased her somehow, I'm not sure how or why. Then she cursed us by removing all of our clothing and belongings. Why do you want to know that? What good does it do you? You want to search for the witch, and take our belongings as well??? Good luck with that. Good -kriffing- luck!" The one who'd asked about the dark saber once again reiterates his desire to see it. "Let me see it," he barks. "The dark saber! You don't have even have to unbind me. I just want to ... see it. Let me see it!!!" he growls desperately. "..." The young Tholothian man actually looks... hurt? "I'm sorry. What do you need from me right now?" he calls after her. "I thought you liked me. But if you want me to leave you alone, then I'll leave you alone." 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' The ship groans as Volken makes his way into it. It might groan again if Er'gi arrives but it's hard to 'out groan' Volken. Especially if he's in a bad mood and lately...he usually has been. He remoes his helmet for the first time in some while, shaking out his mass of dark hair and then reaching a hand up to drag it across his brickish jaw and the beard that's haphazardly forming in various untrimmed ways...and then he starts towards the others after setting his gigantic repeater cannons down. "Alright.. so we got 'em. So now what? Cowardly one is Kassady. Bold one is Caine except apparently he's only a year old according to the jedi boy. So - explanations? Do we contact Thaelin and get some family history?" As the one he's designated as Caine begins making demands, Volken turns slowly in his direction and asks, "Do you want to punch him? If not sure show it to him but I suggest you back up...over there. Let him get a good distance look at it. He's been obessesed with this thing so something's clearly up." 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha stops in her tracks and turns around to face 'Crane' again. "Don't you dare do that to me. If you're going to kick me when I'm down, then you can surely turn your butt around and go back to the convent and your life of peace and tranquility. I'm knee deep in muck and mire right now I do NOT need another person toying with my feelings or making me feel guilty when I have nothing to be guilty for." She turns then and keeps walking until she's back with Cayde and the drill. "I might need to go meet Doctor Cassias and some others...though I don't know if it'll be sooner or later, but he's heading into Kublop Springs, and I'd like to be at the station to greet him. Do you want to come with?" Asking this to Cayde. 

:'''{{#var:418|Jorn (418)}} has posed:''' Jorn just ignores every request about the Dark Saber. "That's what we're trying to figure out. Why one looks young when it comes to scans, but looks older than that," Jorn looks to the pair for a moment. "Something feels off. I mean, did he create clone decoys?" that's Jorn's theory. It would be a good way to throw people off the trails. Subjects like transfer of conscience seem a little toof ar off for him. "I mean, you know Caine's history, right? You know a bit of it. You know what the scans aren't saying. OR at least, what they're seemingly getting wrong," and that's what makes the gear in Jorn's head going. He's not sure why a scan, so rooted in science, be wrong when it comes to the age. 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     Ellari shrugs at Volken's suggestion of punching. "Do -you- want to punch him?" She arches a brow at the one who seems so desperate to see the Darksaber. "What's the rush?" she asks. "Do you doubt our very history? Or do you doubt that it's here? Why does it matter so much to you?"     She nods to Jorn. "Hmph, that would be consistent with the Jedi's observations, certainly. And I wouldn't put such unorthodox methods past him. So tell me, are you -really- Caine Von'egel? Or just a knock-off copy of him?" 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde nods, putting the partially assembled drill down carefully. [You should know...Zealot will not harm] he tries to assure her. 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "Hello, Volken. I think Cayde went to the junkyard with Zetha, if you're looking for him," Navi says from her perch near the two near-naked prisoners. One of whom could stand a good slap in her opinion... 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Crane shrugs. He doesn't seem upset or angry by Zetha's biting words. "What? Why would I try to make you feel bad for not liking me? I wouldn't blame you if you'd decided to not like me. I don't make close friends easily, and that's not anyone else's problem but my own." "I'm sorry if I hurt you, if you want me to leave you alone, then I will," He says softly, without animosity or malice. "And I think that the co-deputy is right. You won't be harmed. I have a feeling," he says, "that everyone and everything will be alright." Then he offers her a small smile, bows and says, "May the Force be with you, Zetha. I wish you peace, happiness, and serenity." Then he turns to leave. "I don't know," He announces, "I want to see the Dark Saber," he insists again. "And I want -help-." His eyes flash. Navi, Cayde, and Zetha will then get a text transmission from the doctor, notifying them that he and the others are due to arrive in about five to ten minutes, and he'd like to know where he should meet them... 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' "Well he could confirm things but maybe it's best he stays out of his head. Might be contagious, whever's going on in there." observes Volken as he hears Navi. "No, not really." he says towards Ellari at that point. "Was just offering." Volken sets his helmet down and steps forward to get a closer look. "He's -always- been interested in the saber from the sounds of it. Didn't he -steal- it before? Didn't Fett get it back in that mess that led to Revara bein' on Coruscant? I didn't get all the details. Now -this- whole mess with Jorn and over Revara no less? What're we missing here? There has to have been a real Caine... Maybe there still is somewhere... Maybe..." He pauses keeping his next thought to himself and then simply looks to Kassady, "You got more answers then you're letting on here. -Talk- -SIng- Do -somethng- instead of bein' useless so we can sort this nonsense out. " 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha tilts her head at Cayde in a curious manner. [How do you know?] Because being told that the one who held a pistol to your head is not going to harm you is pretty...weird...to her. She's about to say something else to Cayde when she hears Crane speaking again. Closing her eyes she takes in a breath as she hears the next thing Crane says. It hurts, but she doesn't know what to say here. So she doesn't say anything. One more person walking out of her life isn't going to change her current circumstances. When she opens her eyes again, she gives a smile to Cayde that doesn't reach her eyes. Then that communication comes through and she shakes her head before typing into her comm in reply to the doctor <Cayde and I will meet you at the station. We're heading there now.> 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     "Help with -what-?" Ellari asks, arching a brow at him. "You're going to have to be more specific than that."     She gives a Volken a look, smirking slightly at his answer. If he didn't want to do it, why even offer to begin with? But she doesn't push it for now.     "If we're dealing with some kind of clone, then there must be a lab somewhere on Tenoo..." she notes, her gaze going over to Navi. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde watches 'Crane' leave. Perhaps it was for the best. For now, anyway. [The Force is my ally] he replies to Zetha's question rather vaguely. [He will not harm you]     He glances down at the message coming through, reading it but not responding. 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "Those shifty Arkanian scientists at Whatever Bend have a lab close to the Vergence," Navi observes. "If I was going to point a finger at anyone being too interested in cloning around here, it would be them." 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Kasseady bares his teeth at Volken. "I don't have any answers for you!!" He shouts angrily. "What do you want me to say? That I know my brother is here, on Tenoo, hiding out in the inn just across the street!? That would be a cowardly attempt to lie to save my own skin, hut'uun!!" He then slumps against his cuffs. "I don't know anything," he laments. "I wish I did. I came here hoping to restore my reputation in the wake of the wreck he left me in. Now I'm left with less than I came with, which was nothing but the clothes off my back and my armor..." "The only thing I know for certain is that... that person. That ... -thing-. Is not my brother. I can feel it in my blood. He is not agol." The other bound hostage glares at Kass, but offers no words. "Let me see the Dark Saber," he insists again. The doctor then messages both Navi, Cayde, and Zetha. <See you all soon, then?> Hopefully at least Zetha will show at the tram station when the doctor arrives... 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "I'm aboard the Mandalorians' ship, Doctor. They're interrogating the two prisoners. It's been both hilarious and unnerving," Navi replies to the Doctor over the comlink. "Have a safe trip." 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha nods to Cayde. "Well. If you say so...doesn't mean I'm going to immediately drop my guard..." She offers this much and then motions to him. "Come on. It's about a five minute walk to the station from here and we have just about that much time to get there." She then offers him a smile before taking a breath. "And thanks. For the nap, and for sticking around. Your company was appreciated and enjoyed." With that, she heads towards leaving and going to the station, hopefully with Cayde none too far behind her. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde nods. [Any time] he offers, when she thanks for him helping her sleep. He then follows her to the station to meet Soren. 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     Well, at least Kass was smart enough to figure -that-. Ellari nods at Navi. "Well then, I say we take him to said lab, and demand the truth from said Arkanians." Simple as that. And it'd be even simpler with Volken around. "If they're working for the -real- Caine, then it's as good a lead as any on finding him." 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' Kassady admitting that aloud...seems to have done what Volken was hoping for. He nods his head and straightens back up and steps away from him to then turn towards the others. "Alright." he rumbles. "And I changed my mind. Don't let him see the Dark Saber. This thing is probably booby trapped or something. MIght turn into some sort of winged fire breathing monster once he lays eyes on it... But we at leas tknow that there -is- a Caine which is what I was worried about but fine. One conspiracy down, twenty to go." He then turns and gestures at Kassady, "We should give him a chance to earn his honor back and find out what happened to his brother." He turns towards Kassady, "You got that? YOu're not gonna go callin' home and tryin' to go tell on us ...are ya? You wanna know what happened to your brother as much as we, right?" 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' <I'll meet you there, then> The doctor notifies Navi. Moments, later he's stepping off the tram, and he sees Zetha and Cayde approaching. His gaze flicks from one to another. "How are you two holding up?" he asks softly, reaching over to pat Cayde on the shoulder gently. Thaarin, Veena, and Mondrian are tailing him, but he gestures for them to go on ahead. "Navi's at Ellari's ship," he says, "I'll catch up with you all there in a bit," he says. Thaarin kindly greets Zetha and Cayde before he's hurried off by Mondrian and Veena, who just give the young padawan cold looks. The one insisting to see the Dark Saber goes silent, but his expressions hardens and becomes angry and weirdly distant. Something is definitely off with him. Kasseady scoffs at Volken. "And how the hell would I go about doing that? I have no armor, no clothing, and I can't even be certain my own ship is where I left it." 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha smiles at Soren and inclines her head to him. "Doing better." She offers this and then gives a little smile and wave at Thaarin just before he's rushed off with the other two. Though she notes that cold stare given to Cayde and raises a brow before shaking her head. "I mean, aside from upsetting 'Crane' because I can't seem to be able to go a week without pissing someone off." She shrugs it off though. "Anyway and besides, what do you need? How can I help?" 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     [I am okay] Cayde replies to Soren's question, again rather vaguely as he often does. The cold glares from the detectives don't come as a surprise to him. 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     Ellari rolls her eyes, not approving of giving Kass this 'chance'. She scoffs. "What reputation? What honor? You had none to begin with."     "We should take him to these scientists and force them to come clean." 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' "I dunno how but I still had to ask so you can't say I didn't. Yer ship's fine .. aside from the dent i put into it when I punched it. Should still be space worthy though. I pulled my punch... We'll get you some clothes so you got some dignigty and figure out your armor later. We can't have that just wanderin' around to fall into non Mandalorian hands but first you help figure out whose after the Dark Saber and maybe they'll stop laughin' you right out of Sundari for your part in all of this..." He waves a hand, dismissively. Negotations, such as they were, are over. "Pretty much." he then says to Ellari, "One more body on our side i case things go wrong. one more person to get shot at, eh?" 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' The doctor sighs. He seems rather dissatisfied with Cayde's response. "We're going to talk later," he says to Cayde. Then he turns to Zetha. "Zetha, this isn't the time to be pretending. We're past the point of facades, remember? I know there's important work to be done but none of us can afford for you to not be mentally and emotionally ready for it. What happened with Crane? What is he upset at you for?" He continues walking, heading in the general direction of the starport, where the Amber Clad is stationed. "You -dented- my ship!?" Kasseady lets out a string of unrepeatable Mando'a curses out loud. "After this is all over, you're going to pay for all this. I'll make you regret the day you were born!" 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "If it were a facade, I would be telling you everything is fine and there's nothing to worry about. Crane wants me back at the convent. I told him I would think about it. Then he asked again. So I told him that I had to protect Wiis, and I didn't want to put the convent in danger. And then he made some remark about how if I don't like him and want him out of my life then he'll leave." Zetha shrugs then. There's more to it, but she can put it aside. It's not important. Surely not as important as the state Crane will be in mentally if she ever finds out the whole truth about him being Zealot. "Anyway. He also acted kinda weird and like...he didn't have any concern that my life was threatened. Which is weird to me. But that's something for future me to worry on. Present me is ready for whatever you need me for." 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     [Okay] Cayde replies, although his expression is downcast. Not that he really -looks- upset, but he certainly doesn't look happy, either. But he almost always looks something like this. When Zetha mentions Crane's behavior was odd, he just looks away. 

:'''{{#var:321|Volken Mons (321)}} has posed:''' "It was only a little dent." protests Volken, not sounding worried in the slightest. "You know. Just a bit bigger then my fist. It gives the ship character." 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     Ellari just rolls her eyes even harder at this. "Do you see now what I meant by 'what honor'?" she asks, glancing at Volken. "The hut'uun had none to begin with, anyway." 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "Zetha," Soren says frankly. "Respectfully, you cannot protect Wiis. I cannot protect Wiis. That's Cayde, Navi and the other Jedis' job. And I don't want you to try to. You'll get hurt, and so will Wiis." He shakes his head at Zetha. "I am going to be honest, I don't find that terribly unusual. Jedha is full of pious sorts who dedicate themselves to studying and worshipping the light side of the Force. He probably said something about the will of the Force being what it is, didn't he? It's... typical. They believe in some greater purpose, and that everything that happens is just supposed to happen, and we should accept our fates. The Jedi are a perfect example of this. You're not likely going to find them showing any kind of exaggerated emotion, ever. Even if some planet is on the verge of imploding and billions of lives are at stake." He suddenly looks weary, and glances over at Cayde briefly. Then the look is gone. "It doesn't mean that he doesn't care. And if you still care about him, then you should tell him." He pauses. "Don't wait, Zetha. For the love of light and all that's good, don't wait to tell the people you love that you love them. You might not have tomorrow." At that moment, Thaarin, Mondrian and Veena arrive at the Amber Clad. The tall blue alien flashes a charming smile at Ellari and waves. "I think we've found ourselves unlikely allies," he says to her, "the doctor has come up from the colony to help examine and discuss that rather interesting hostage you're keeping aboard your ship. We could find a time a chat, and soon, I should hope." 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha's not dumb. She notices how Cayde looks away when she brought up Crane's behavior. Adding that to the fact that Cayde told her Zealot wasn't going to harm her. Sure Cayde had promised he'd protect her but... "Cayde? What is it? Do you know something?" Because she's gotten to know Cayde a bit, and this is definitely Cayde's I know something but I'm not saying anything look. "I..." There's a pause and then she slumps almost dejectedly. "I have to keep her safe. I have to make sure Zealot doesn't just show up randomly and wind up killing her if I'm not there because he's upset with me. I can protect her that much." She then gives a look to Soren when he talks about Crane and then shakes her head. "Alright. I get it. But something still felt odd about it. I do like him though, he's a great guy. And I think it's more they don't outwardly show their emotions. The Crane I talk to in person can be a lot different than the one I text on occassion." She chuckles at that and then shrugs. "I'm not putting my personal issues in front of a very real and active situation. I'll resolve it, I always wind up doing so. Now will you please tell me what we're doing?" 

:'''{{#var:296|Ellari Zin (296)}} has posed:'''     [...know something what] Cayde asks, trying to give the impression that he doesn't know what she's talking about. However, his expression has not changed. He isn't sure if telling her the truth would make matters better or worse quite yet. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     [...know something what] Cayde asks, trying to give the impression that he doesn't know what she's talking about. However, his expression has not changed. He isn't sure if telling her the truth would make matters better or worse quite yet. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "If Zealot wanted to kill Wiis, there wouldn't be anything you could personally do to stop him. If he was going to kill her because he's upset with you, I doubt there'd be much you could do to dissuade him from doing so at that point. But I don't feel like I need to be telling you this, you know it, deep down. You just hate the idea of not being able to protect her from a situation that you perceive as being created by you." "What happened, happened. There was a fundamental disagreement about what was right and what was wrong, and even I myself am not sure entirely what the right decision was. Either way, you can't change the past, so don't rue over events that can't be changed. Learn from the past, keep moving forward, that's all." He then waves a hand dismissively at Zetha. "You are," he says, "because I am telling you as your therapist that you need to. You need to sort this out before you do anything else. Go find Crane, talk to him. Tell him how you really feel, even if you aren't entirely sure how to say it. You still need to try, the effort is what matters." He then starts heading for the starport. "I'll brief you later on my findings. I'm going to stay the night, and perhaps the next so there will be plenty of time to discuss next steps regarding the Mandalorians." He then looks to Cayde. "Let's go," he says, "we should go meet up with the others. And you, Navi, Zetha, and I are all going to sit down and have a talk later, too. There's that as well." 
}}

A Drill Puzzle

2025-11-05T22:00:15Z

Andromeda:

{{Log Header
|Date of Scene=2025-10-25
|Cast of Characters=159, 444, 143, 261
|pretty=yes
|Location=Kublop Springs - Tenoo - Outer Rim
}}
{{Poses
|Poses=:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' It's a sunny and quiet afternoon at the junkyard, and with all that has transpired in the past few days, both Wiis and probably Zetha are perhaps on edge. The Mandalorians had been found, and the marauders, that very same day, had vanished from the streets and retreated back into the Gorge. So things have settled down and are back to being peaceful -- perhaps -too- peaceful. Either way, neither of them will be surprised when Thaarin comes knocking, after all he'd promised to check in about the drill, which is what had prompted his visit to the junkyard that first time he'd come... 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha is the one who comes to answer the door. Though she only opens it a crack at first until she sees it's only Thaarin who has arrived. Not surprising, but it's a welcomed sight compared to who else could be standing there... The door finally opens more wide and Zetha offers a kind smile but it doesn't reach her eyes. "Thaarin. Welcome. I didn't expect you to come so soon but...please. Come in. How are you?" 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Actually, Thaarin isn't the only one who has arrived. Cayde is with him, standing to the right and slightly behind him. He nods politely when Zetha opens the door, although he doesn't actually look genuinely happy. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' The tall blue skinned man nods and smiles faintly, but there's a weariness about him, although that wouldn't have surprised Zetha at all, he's looked tired ever since the Mandalorians had arrived. "I'm alright," he says, ducking to enter their humble abode, "What about yourself?" He steps aside to allow Cayde to come in as well. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "I'm fi--" Zetha begins, but then she shakes her head. "I've been better. Honestly. But we're all still alive so that has to count for something." She still jerks sometimes at sudden noises, bumps in the night, but that's nothing she'll outright share. Her gaze shifts to Cayde and she offers him a faltered smile when she sees he's none too happy. "Hey Cayde. How are you?" She figures she knows the answer but might as well see how he answers. Walking further in then, she speaks further. "You mentioned coming by about the drill? I'm afraid there hasn't been any time for me to try and put it back together as I had hoped. But...was there a question about it you had?" 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     [I am okay] Cayde signs to Zetha in reply, coming in after Thaarin. Right, the drill. They'd been looking for evidence. -Actionable- evidence...before all this. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' He gives the young Twi'lek a compassionate look. "I'm sorry," He says, "and well, that's understandable," he continues, "it's alright. You're free now, right? Perhaps we could work on it? If you don't mind?" Then he glances around, probably looking for Wiis. "Perhaps Wiis could assist as well?" 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' Navi had awakened late after the events of the previous day, and had been playing catch-up all day since. Consequently, she arrives at the junkyard a few minutes behind Cayde and Thaarin; luckily, she'd spent the night in Kublop Springs, so she didn't have to deal with the hours-long tram ride from Whatever Bend. "Sorry I'm late," she says softly to those assembled at the door as she jogs into the dooryard of the junkyard, with a quick hug for each of them. Zetha gets a slightly longer one; Navi knows a vulnerable soul when she sees one. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' What else could Zetha say except that it's fine? Cause it's not fine. She's terrified on the inside, but she can't express that to just anyone. Especially not a group of people. "I am free now, yes. So we could....." Then there's suddenly a Navi and she's getting a hug - which she returns. She also - almost - breaks ... but manages to hold firm. "Uhm. No. No I'm letting Wiis rest a bit." Which is Zetha's excuse for not wanting Wiis to be out in any sort of open if she could prevent it. Keep her in places where sniper fire has less chance to hit her. Then she takes a breath. "Come on. The drill is...likely precisely where you left it." 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde frowns, seeing that Zetha is rather distressed...scared, even.     [I will protect you] he tries to assure her. [And Wiis] he adds. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Thaarin nods in greeting at Navi, then turns to Zetha. "Look... this could take your mind off of things a bit," he says softly, soothingly. "And you can talk to us. You know that, right?" His scarlet eyed gaze levels with hers. He nods when she says Wiis is resting, and then starts following Zetha. 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "That's good. I think that's the first thing I've heard about that's actually where it's supposed to be since I took this job," Navi observes. "As for Wiis, I'm glad she's okay. No need to wake her." 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha looks to Cayde, and it's in her eyes. Her true emotions will always be in her eyes no matter how else she tries to bury them. "I know you'll try. Cayde. And that's all I can ask..." But Cayde doesn't know what happened. And this isn't the Zetha Show. They came here for a purpose and she's not going to cause them to stray from that. She then looks to Thaarin and gives a nod of her head. "I know I can...and I presume we're safe enough here to talk about it. I don't think there's any probes or whatever recording us. I just...I'm still getting used to being open with people. Like really open. If that makes sense." Zealot did just land, threaten and then take off again. Navi gets a nod, but nothing more. And then she leads them to the main opening of the junkyard where that cart still sits with the drill pieces atop it. "Right then..." 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Try? [But I will] Cayde insists, looking determined. He frowns. What had happened? Well he knew about a few things, but there was something else. He follows her over to where the drill pieces are still laying on the cart. 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "It does. It makes a lot of sense," Navi replies sympathetically. She hovers near Zetha's elbow as the Twi'lek girl leads everyone to the remains of the drill. "Has something happened since the last time we were here?" she asks, gently. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "Yes," Thaarin says softly in response to Navi, his expression growing wearier for brief moment. "One step at a time," he tells Zetha. "Would you like to tell us more about what it is exactly that you agreed to do? For the marauders? Regarding the Mandalorians..." He then sits down across from the drill bit pieces, and then starts picking up pieces that look like they could go together. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "Not all the marauders. Just one." Zetha says. "And not all the Mandalorians. Just one." As if that makes a difference. "Zealot came here one night. Actually...it was the night you had come to work on the ship, Thaarin, and then you almost passed out so I sent you into the house. As I was getting back to the ship...Zealot came. Landed in front of me. Pointed a blaster at my head. Made a thing about how he had the cortosis back, and he's upset because he apparently helped work out the deal that Wiis had made..." She begins... She picks up a few pieces of the drill as well, actually somehow fitting them together and perhaps trying to work out how to bind them. "He threatened me. He wants me to seduce the Mandalorian I know as Jasper. Because Jasper's got some lab somewhere and he wanted me to seduce Jasper, which would make him trust me enough to show me the lab. Put a probe in the lab.... because of...something going on that isn't good." That's all she says for now. Except she adds, "When I asked him what would happen if I refused...that's when he pointed a sniper rifle into Wiis' room...and...I..." Okay. THIS Is where she stops, because this is where she may just break apart. Again. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde frowns, listening to Zetha's story. A lab? Well maybe this 'Jasper' is the one behind the experiments involving a 1 year old adult human. But why should -she- be endangered? Why would Amarik threaten -her-...     He shakes his head before she can finish. [I can do it] he insists. [Zealot will not harm you] 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' Navi sighs, hugging Zetha tightly. "Sometimes I really hate that guy..." she murmurs, cradling the Twi'lek girl against her. She wants to cry herself. But she can't, because Zetha needs her strength here and now. "So Zealot wants a probe into whatever lab created Jasper. I smell those shifty Arkanians behind this," she murmurs. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Thaarin's brow furrows. "Zetha, I'm.. I'm so sorry, I wasn't aware. I guess I was just so tired..." He sighs, suddenly looking tired again. He picks up another piece of the drill. "I see the efficiency of it, though it's brutal and dangerous," he says softly. When Cayde offers to do it instead, Thaarin shakes his head. "Cayde, you know that's extremely risky. The Mandalorian will resist you. What happened at the farmstead --" "Of course they're responsible," Thaarin says, "they've been making themselves so scarce lately, and I'm sure the doctor's concerns about their experimentation with genetics isn't unfounded." 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     [Better to be me] Cayde argues when Thaarin says it's risky. Well of course it was, but it was better than endangering Zetha's life, wasn't it? 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "But that's the other thing..." Zetha begins. "The other day. When we were in the gorge and we found those naked men? You called them Kassady and Caine. But...they look /just/ like Jasper. In matters of hair, facial features and such..." She then sighs. "And previously..." She looks to Cayde then. "When you found me in the cantina? The first night I met Doctor Cassias without...realizing he was the therapist Crane referred me to... it's Jasper that I was meeting." There's a pause. She's not even focused on the drill anymore. "That night. Jasper invited me to the Colony. He had actually /offered/ to show me something he had been working on. Putting it all together. I'm pretty sure it's this very lab. And when Doctor Cassias and I talked in the colony the day after Zealot threatened me. I told him...I gave him the probe Zealot gave me. But that's when I offered to do it. I don't think I'd even have to seduce Jasper. I'd just have to find him...tell him I had a change of heart. Because I need a change of scenery or something..." She glances to Thaarin again then. "Which is why I told you what I told you before we went to the gorge...you've tried everything else. Maybe I'm the bait you need to finally hook the fish." 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "I don't like the idea of using you as bait, Zetha. Not at all. But I also know what it's like to need to do something," Navi says softly. "If you're really committed to this, we can try it. With some adaptations made for the sake of your safety." She glances to the drill bits. "Now maybe we should try to put this stupid thing together. I'm tired of thinking about it." 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "I don't like it either," Thaarin says, "but Cayde attempting to persuade him using his powers of the mind seems just as risky. And those are really our only two options." He sighs. "However... you're right, Navi. We could make it safer, we could have her escorted from a distance. We could place a tracker on her, to ensure we know where she is at all times." He turns back to the drill bit and hands Zetha another piece of it. "And we should make sure that you have a way to tell us to extract you, immediately, if at any moment you feel start to feel unsafe." 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde doesn't really like it, either. Why did Zetha have to risk herself at all? But it seems no one agrees with his ideas, so he just sighs and starts picking up a few of the drill pieces with the Force. Maybe he'll just have to find Jasper himself, before everyone else does. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "Whichever way is the way to go. I just...I don't know where Jasper is. Or if he's now in hiding or just sitting in the lab because of what all else has transpired." Zetha offers this and then takes the offered piece from Thaarin to try and place it together with the other ones she has. "Weird though, isn't it? That those two look like Jasper? Has there been anything indicating that they're cloning people?" Because what else could it be? Triplets? With one seeming like they're only years old? She shakes her head and then glances to Cayde. "Do you think you could get inside his mind? They say it's just as risky but...we're all going to have to work together if this is going to succeed. And I'm willing enough to be bait, but also to keep our options open..." 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "I was Master Windu's assistant in the medical lab before I put on this badge," Navi observes. "And if I ever saw anyone whose whole demeanor just screamed 'unethical', it's those Arkanian scientists. I wouldn't put cloning past them. We already know that the Vergence makes for larger and healthier lifeforms in its vicinity, which is probably why they built that research lab so close to it. It's the kind of thing that might make major medical and scientific breakthroughs possible." "Cayde or I could try to get inside his head, if we could find him, though Cayde is better at that kind of thing. He might be one of the two we netted yesterday... did anyone ever find out why they were stark naked and unarmed?" 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "Unfortunately, I've no idea either," Thaarin says, "the doctor suspects that yes, the Arkanians have attempted cloning. Navi's right about the vergence. It makes things that might not ordinarily be possible, possible. How successful they've been, well, only time will tell." He gives Zetha and Navi a severe look. "I just don't think that's a good idea. We all saw what happened at the farmstead. And cloning ... well it's never been attempted by anyone before. Not even where I'm from, has it succeeded. We don't know what kind of havoc that might wreak on his mind. Even with Navi there, it's just not something I think would go well. And while I don't feel particularly sorry for him, the last thing we need is a psychotic clone of a man we already deem untrustworthy..." He turns to Cayde. "You'll have to be part of the escorting party. We all will. No one will be doing this alone. I'll figure out the finer details and brief everyone when the time comes, but in the meantime, you should get some rest," he says to Zetha softly. "Have you any means of contacting 'Jasper'?" he asks her. "Perhaps that's all I'd ask of you. Find a way to reach out to him..." 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde just continues to fiddle with the drill pieces as they float around in the air in front of him, slowly rotating about. Some of them fit together, but there's nothing to hold them there except the Force right now. Had he ever heard any of what was just said? 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "I can't..." Zetha says almost suddenly. "Everytime I've tried to sleep...it's all I see. That kriffing blaster pistol settled right between my eyes. Or the sniper laser pointed right at Wiis' head..." She says this and then shakes her head. When Thaarin asks about her having any way to contact Jasper, she shakes her head. "I don't. At least, I don't think I do? I'd have to check and see if he ever gave me his contact details." 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "Jasper might get nervous with so many people around Zetha, but her safety's a lot more important than his trust. We'll find another way if he refuses to talk to us. Like turning Cayde loose inside his head," Navi says, idly watching Cayde assemble the drill in midair. "Cayde, did you catch all of that?" 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Thaarin reaches and strokes Zetha's shoulder briefly before withdrawing his hand. "Zetha, you're safe. I don't trust Zealot, but if Cayde doesn't want you hurt, then he won't lay a finger on you or Wiis." He pauses. "I think." He sighs. "I'll talk to Cayde later," he says to Navi, "as you know, he just doesn't pay attention well during group sessions like this." He turns to the young padawan. "You should probably give those to Zetha," he says to him. "'Jasper' won't have to know,'" he tells Navi. "We'll set it up so that he won't know there's anyone watching or tracking her." 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde does his best to hold the drill pieces together, and moves them in front of Zetha. Maybe she has a welder, or something?     But his gaze falls at Navi's comment. Right, as if he's some kind of out of control weapon or torture device. A last resort, an ultimatum. Like a bomb. But it was true, wasn't it? 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha finally gets it in her head that she needs tools for this, and so she reaches over and grabs her nearby toolbox, setting it down and grabbing things one at a time with which to screw, pound, or otherwise make the pieces fit together like they should. At least the ones currently in her hands. There's a glance given to Thaarin then and she shrugs. "Maybe I'll conk myself in the head with a wrench... seems to do the trick nicely." Then she winks at him. Wait. Is she flirting? Openly? Surely not! "He likes to stick to the shadows. Doesn't like to be seen. This much I know about him...mostly. Except for the one time he came to the convent. Again, I'll just have to see if I have his contact info." She pauses a moment. "So what's the point of us putting the drill back together anyway?" 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "We can do our best on that, Thaarin, but that doesn't mean he's blind, deaf, or stupid. We'll need a contingency plan, just in case he realizes he's being shadowed," Navi suggests, watching Zetha work on the drill Cayde's holding up for her. Off Zetha's question, she shrugs. "No idea. I guess the justice system likes jigsaw puzzles?" 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Thaarin chuckles softly at Zetha's comment and gazes fondly at her for a moment, but then his attention is turned to Cayde. "You can do better," he says, "I -know- you can. I fully believe you're capable of it." He nods at Navi. "I'll think of something," he says, "don't worry. We'll have a contingency plan." There always had to be one, if Cayde was going to be involved... of course. "Well, perhaps he'll turn up if he hears you're looking for him?" "We need the drill put back together to validate some evidence that was aggregated against a certain colonist, Weniscio, for the murder of a Dug named Dresda." 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde just continues to hold the drill pieces there as Zetha gets her tools and sets to work, his expression still unreadable but his demeanor noticeably unhappy. He still doesn't look up, even after Thaarin's attempted encouragement. 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "Okay, then. I guess that makes sense." Navi keeps her attention on being moral support for the seemingly fragile Zetha. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha looks over the pieces as they come together and then nods her head in a sort of final way. "Alright. This piece is done." She offers this and then tilts her head. "Suppose it isn't enough that I could testify the drill was tampered with by a certain Chadra Fan and what he bought from here?" It's viable evidence, and it's even recorded. Even if the Chadra Fan was 'never there'...Zetha still recorded the sale. Otherwise Wiis would have had her head. She sets the one bit aside and down before looking at the other pieces. "This might take longer than anticipated..." 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "The Republic court systems will want both," Thaarin says, "Your eyewitness account, and the hard evidence." He pauses. "They might even want all of us testify back on Coruscant... I don't know when. Perhaps it could a welcome change," he says to Zetha. "It's alright," Thaarin says, "take your time. I've actually got to head back to Aklyrr, there was something Miss Graf wanted to discuss with me. But I'll see you all soon." He stands, and ruffles Cayde's hair affectionately. "We're still going to need you," he says softly, encouraging him, "when the time comes, to protect Zetha should the Mandalorian mean her harm. You're co-deputy, after all. You too, Navi." Then he takes his leave. But just as he leaves, another familiar presence makes himself known. 'Crane' must have seen Zetha head down to the junkyard that morning and had been missing her. Or... well maybe it's something else. He's running, and waving at the group gathered around the drill. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Yeah, sure...they will need him. To be the backup plan. The 'to hell with everything' option if things didn't go well. The monster in the cage to be unleashed only if nothing else worked. Because that's all he's good at, apparently.     He lets go of the patched together piece of the drill, and then starts working on another section. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "Sounds good, Thaarin. Take care of yourself and see you soon." Zetha offers as the man heads out. Though she looks back over to Cayde after a moment. "You know. Giving us all the silent treatment isn't very fair. I've had to learn to talk things out because holding it in isn't good. So...why are you being all broody silent suddenly? You understand I volunteered for this whole thing right?" Then she catches 'Crane' coming into the junkyard and she smiles a little while giving him a wave in return. "Crane! Hey! What brings you to the junkyard?" 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' Navi waves to Thaarin. "Be safe," she says softly as he departs. "She's right, Cayde. Holding it in just lets it fester. Let us help you work it out," she advises gently. But as she sees 'Crane' coming, she scowls faintly. "Just passing by and thought he'd drop in, no doubt..." 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "Zetha, Navi!" he says, his electric indigo eyes bright. "The governor of Kublop Springs is going to host a gala at his manor. The whole town is invited." "I want you all to come," he says, looking over at Zetha, and then to Navi, who, despite noticing her scowl, reaches over to grab both her hands and hoist her to her feet. He looks to Cayde. "You, too," he says. "I think you'll like it too, Cayde." 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde, liking a gala? Or any party whatsoever? In what world does Amarik live in now? The padawan also isn't giving Crane a very pleasant look.     << Why you threaten Zetha >> he immediately asks. << You lie and you hurt her >> 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "Wait. As in like... now?" Zetha asks and then she shakes her head. "I...I don't think..." Then she thinks back on the first time she met Jasper. At a fancy place, among fancy people, and her standing out like a sore thumb. Would he be there? "If the whole town was invited then how is it we didn't get any sort of invitation aside from you suddenly coming into the junkyard and letting us know it's happening?" 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' Navi comes to her feet at 'Crane's' urging. "A gala? Sounds fun, but it's odd that we haven't heard about it until now," she says. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' The Tholothian man responds. < And I had no plan to. Look, she's fine. I didn't shoot her, or Wiis. And now she'll help us. Listen, the Mandalorian is planning abominable things. And we cannot waste time, trying to find out a way into his laboratory. Besides, I think it will be good for her. She'll learn espionage. It's how I learned > "Of course not," The Tholothian man says. "It'll be in two weeks time. He just announced it, less than ten minutes ago, in the town square. You'll hear about it, soon enough." He hugs Navi, and the young Sephi girl will be overwhelmed by a sense of affection coming from the Tholothian man. Then he turns and takes one of Zetha's hands. "I really want you to come," he pleads. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     <Why she need that...I could have done it> Cayde argues, frowning. <You should tell her truth> he continues. The Tholothian will be able to tell that he isn't in a good mood at all. Something Navi had said earlier. 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' Navi returns 'Crane's' hug in kind, unable to keep from reciprocating some of that sense of deep affection. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Two weeks. Zetha takes in a breath and then shakes her head. "I'll think about it. I make no promises. Fancy things and me haven't gotten along very well." Besides, it's not like he's asking her in any capacity outside of the whole town being invited. She doesn't know what other conversation is happening, and therefore she'll turn and go right back to putting drill pieces together. She has to keep her mind busy. She might just work on this all night. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' <The Baron will not come at your beck and call. Neither will the Arkanians> He tells the young padawan. <In fact, he knows your association with Volken and knows to keep well away from you. Even I do not know where he is right now. And you will not find his laboratory without him> <You know I can't do that. It would destroy her, and then the truth about my dual identity would reach Xera. And if that were to happen, she would declare war upon the marauders and raze anything that got in her path of vengeance. It may happen, anyway, but the longer we can avoid this conflict, the better. Besides, I have news about the cortosis. Volken and his ilk no longer have it. They gave it to me, willingly, for information on the general whereabouts of my employer. And now, it lies at the bottom of the Temple, in a place unreachable except through the power of Jedi mystics. This should please you? I did it for you, because you're right about the Mandalorians, and because I wanted you to be happy> "You'll come, then?" he says to Navi, and then looks to Zetha. "I'll be there. I'll make sure you have a nice time." 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     <You shouldn't be with them> Cayde argues. So what if Xera drove them away? Maybe that'd force Amarik to rethink his position.     ...or, he could just tell Zetha himself.     The news about the cortosis doesn't seem to improve his mood. The result of the entire ordeal hadn't been the problem, really. It was more how everyone else had treated him throughout. And nothing could change that, or the roots of it.     But he shrugs and goes back to helping Zetha reassemble the drill. <Thank you.> 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "If I'm not busy with more work, I'll come. It's been a long time since I got to dress up," Navi replies to 'Crane'. She looks between Zetha and Cayde thoughtfully, not missing the tension on Cayde's face. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "I said I'll think about it." Zetha reaffirms. "That's the last I will say on the matter for now." If 'Crane' actually looks at her. Really looks. He may see in her eyes the slight puffiness from fighting back tears, the lingering terror because she just lamented her tale about what Zealot did to her not knowing that she isn't really in any actually true danger. The truth would ruin her? She's already ruined. And in truth if she learned that it was all a ploy...breaking her will be the least of anyone's worries. As Cayde rejoins her to reassemble the drill she looks up and over to him. Setting her tools down a moment she signs, <You okay?> Perhaps trying to make it subtle so the other two don't see her communicating with the young Jedi privately. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' he tells Cayde. And then to both Cayde and Navi, he says, <And recently, I've been thinking that once this is all over, if I somehow manage to survive... I'll have to disappear. The marauders won't want a Republic fugitive among their rank, that will draw unwanted attention from the RDC. But I hope you realize that once Xera finds out, people are going to die. Just my head on a platter won't be good enough for her. Some of them will be marauders, many of them will be colonists.> 'Crane' doesn't say anything else, instead, he plucks three flowers from a nearby tree and offers them to Navi, Cayde, and Zetha. Except for Zetha, he places the flower in her lekku and offers her a faint smile. 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' Navi accepts 'Crane's' flower, sniffing softly before tucking it into her hair, above her left ear. < For what it's worth, from someone knowing just how much you have to answer for? I really do hope you find peace, > she says softly. Noticing Zetha's struggle with unshed tears, she hugs the Twi'lek girl gently, trying to soothe her by gently petting her lekku. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     [I am fine] Cayde signs back to Zetha, although he still looks rather unhappy. [But thank you...] Then he just resumes a downcast gaze, not looking at her.[I don't know] It seemed random, but it was meant in response to the earlier questions about 'broodiness' that are most likely still on her mind.     <Not if you show good> Cayde replies. As in, prove to everyone that he's truly decided to leave that life behind. He glances at the offered flower, but doesn't take it. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha would sign something else to Cayde but then they're being invaded by others so she leaves it. If only she could talk with him telepathically on her own. Maybe she'll offer to do that whole mind trip thing again sometime soon. In all truth she wants to shove the flower out of her lekku. She wants to run into her room, flop onto her bed and sleep. But sleep hasn't come much, and shoving away a gesture seems rude. Perhaps even harsh. She doesn't know the whole truth yet. Just her truth. Her terrifying, sleep depriving, unforgettable truth. So she continues to busy herself with the drill again. She says nothing. Barely leans into the hug that Navi gives her. Keep busy. Work. Don't think. It'll all come to pass eventually. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' <No, Cayde. You don't who I am. You don't know what I've done. Even if I could be reborn, a lifetime of good would not redeem me. Xera would not forgive me, and neither will the law. Navi knows, and understands> He brushes Navi's cheek gently. Then he squats and squeezes Zetha's hand gently. "I'll see you back at the convent?" he asks. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde just sighs, looking even more dejected. But that's the only response Amarik will get.     Zetha will feel some of his presence touch the edge of her mind. <If you need help to sleep...> is the offer. 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' Navi releases Zetha. "If you need to talk, I'm always available," she says quietly, withdrawing into the next room. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha feels that squeeze to her hand and she looks over at Crane. Can he see it now? All the emotion she's trying to hold back? The fear in those purple eyes? When he asks that question, she gently pulls her hand away and shakes her head. "No. I have to stay here. Fix this drill. Protect Wiis." The words are spoken softly as she goes back to picking up pieces to see what parts of the puzzle fit best before she makes them stick together again. "I don't think I'll be back for a while..." She glances up at Cayde with a new look in her gaze. Puzzled. <If only because I don't understand...how? Like I'm not questioning whatever it is...I just don't know what it is.> She's likely liable to squish her fingers in the drill bits as she pushes them together whilst not paying much attention. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' He pauses. He looks to Cayde, and then to Zetha, and for a brief moment, he looks sad. "Okay," he says softly. "You don't need to be afraid," he says to her, "the co-deputies will protect you." <I'm sorry> he says to Cayde. <One day, I'll tell you everything. And you'll understand, that some mistakes can't be fixed, no matter how much good you do. If the Republic finds me, I'll spend the rest of my life in solitary confinement on a lonely, remote planet away from everyone and everything> He notices she's being careless with the drill and reaching for her wrist, pushes her hand away while pulling the drill pieces away. "Maybe you should take a break? You almost hurt yourself just now." 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''      Cayde answers simply, shrugging. She'd seen that rooftop garden scene. Even that might be nice to sleep in, wouldn't it? And even if not, he could create anything, if she'd let him.     He doesn't respond to Amarik's further arguments that he doesn't understand, it only seems to deepen that sad abyss. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Not if Zealot comes in the middle of the night, upset that she's taking too long. Finds out she's been talking to others about it and decides it's not worth the price he's paid or...whatever other horrible terrible thing that Zetha's mind can think of. Because she doesn't know the truth. Because the truth would destroy her more than the lie already is. Then her wrist is being grabbed and she snaps out of whatever side quest her mind was taking. "I...I'm sorry. I'm just tired. I'm so tired..." The tears finally break free, rolling down her cheeks as she looks at Cayde. Right at him. And just nods her head. Her mind whirling. <Whatever it takes. I just want to sleep.> This wasn't the same person a couple days ago in the gorge. When she saw those two men who looked like Jasper, it made her question things. Re-telling the story because she finally had the courage to admit she wasn't okay further opened the flood gates that were now crashing against the dam she had built in her mind. Soren might very well be getting a call or text soon. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "You don't have to apologize," Crane says. Then, with some effort and if Zetha lets him, he'll lift her up bridal style and carry her to the couch, laying her down on it gently. Then he picks up a blanket and covers her with it, tucking her in, just like Wiis used to when she was a little girl. Then he steps back, to let Cayde help her quiet her mind, or who knows, perhaps Zetha will fall asleep even before the young padawan begins... 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde nods and sits down on the edge of the couch, taking one of her hands and focusing on calming her mind by creating a scene similar to the rooftop garden he'd shown her before. It takes a few tries, but he eventually manages to send her there. A place far away from all her troubles, where the air is perfect, and a quiet, clear waterfall gently splashes into a pond. There is a small cottage, with a bed exactly her size that feels more comfortable than anything she's ever slept on, even at the convent. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' It's likely sometime shortly after Cayde takes her hand. Zetha's eyes were closed, tucked in like Wiis used to, which brings a bit of calm to her. Then the place Cayde sends her to. Where there's no blasters or sniper rifles. Nothing else tugging at her. Just peace. Moments later she's out. Or so it seems anyway. 
}}

A Drill Puzzle

2025-11-05T21:59:55Z

Andromeda: Created page with "{{Log Header |Date of Scene=2025-10-25 |Cast of Characters=159, 444, 143, 261 |pretty=yes }} {{Poses |Poses=:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' It's a sunny and quiet afternoon at the junkyard, and with all that has transpired in the past few days, both Wiis and probably Zetha are perhaps on edge. The Mandalorians had been found, and the marauders, that very same day, had vanished from the streets and retreated back into the Gorge. So things have sett..."

{{Log Header
|Date of Scene=2025-10-25
|Cast of Characters=159, 444, 143, 261
|pretty=yes
}}
{{Poses
|Poses=:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' It's a sunny and quiet afternoon at the junkyard, and with all that has transpired in the past few days, both Wiis and probably Zetha are perhaps on edge. The Mandalorians had been found, and the marauders, that very same day, had vanished from the streets and retreated back into the Gorge. So things have settled down and are back to being peaceful -- perhaps -too- peaceful. Either way, neither of them will be surprised when Thaarin comes knocking, after all he'd promised to check in about the drill, which is what had prompted his visit to the junkyard that first time he'd come... 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha is the one who comes to answer the door. Though she only opens it a crack at first until she sees it's only Thaarin who has arrived. Not surprising, but it's a welcomed sight compared to who else could be standing there... The door finally opens more wide and Zetha offers a kind smile but it doesn't reach her eyes. "Thaarin. Welcome. I didn't expect you to come so soon but...please. Come in. How are you?" 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Actually, Thaarin isn't the only one who has arrived. Cayde is with him, standing to the right and slightly behind him. He nods politely when Zetha opens the door, although he doesn't actually look genuinely happy. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' The tall blue skinned man nods and smiles faintly, but there's a weariness about him, although that wouldn't have surprised Zetha at all, he's looked tired ever since the Mandalorians had arrived. "I'm alright," he says, ducking to enter their humble abode, "What about yourself?" He steps aside to allow Cayde to come in as well. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "I'm fi--" Zetha begins, but then she shakes her head. "I've been better. Honestly. But we're all still alive so that has to count for something." She still jerks sometimes at sudden noises, bumps in the night, but that's nothing she'll outright share. Her gaze shifts to Cayde and she offers him a faltered smile when she sees he's none too happy. "Hey Cayde. How are you?" She figures she knows the answer but might as well see how he answers. Walking further in then, she speaks further. "You mentioned coming by about the drill? I'm afraid there hasn't been any time for me to try and put it back together as I had hoped. But...was there a question about it you had?" 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     [I am okay] Cayde signs to Zetha in reply, coming in after Thaarin. Right, the drill. They'd been looking for evidence. -Actionable- evidence...before all this. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' He gives the young Twi'lek a compassionate look. "I'm sorry," He says, "and well, that's understandable," he continues, "it's alright. You're free now, right? Perhaps we could work on it? If you don't mind?" Then he glances around, probably looking for Wiis. "Perhaps Wiis could assist as well?" 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' Navi had awakened late after the events of the previous day, and had been playing catch-up all day since. Consequently, she arrives at the junkyard a few minutes behind Cayde and Thaarin; luckily, she'd spent the night in Kublop Springs, so she didn't have to deal with the hours-long tram ride from Whatever Bend. "Sorry I'm late," she says softly to those assembled at the door as she jogs into the dooryard of the junkyard, with a quick hug for each of them. Zetha gets a slightly longer one; Navi knows a vulnerable soul when she sees one. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' What else could Zetha say except that it's fine? Cause it's not fine. She's terrified on the inside, but she can't express that to just anyone. Especially not a group of people. "I am free now, yes. So we could....." Then there's suddenly a Navi and she's getting a hug - which she returns. She also - almost - breaks ... but manages to hold firm. "Uhm. No. No I'm letting Wiis rest a bit." Which is Zetha's excuse for not wanting Wiis to be out in any sort of open if she could prevent it. Keep her in places where sniper fire has less chance to hit her. Then she takes a breath. "Come on. The drill is...likely precisely where you left it." 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde frowns, seeing that Zetha is rather distressed...scared, even.     [I will protect you] he tries to assure her. [And Wiis] he adds. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Thaarin nods in greeting at Navi, then turns to Zetha. "Look... this could take your mind off of things a bit," he says softly, soothingly. "And you can talk to us. You know that, right?" His scarlet eyed gaze levels with hers. He nods when she says Wiis is resting, and then starts following Zetha. 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "That's good. I think that's the first thing I've heard about that's actually where it's supposed to be since I took this job," Navi observes. "As for Wiis, I'm glad she's okay. No need to wake her." 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha looks to Cayde, and it's in her eyes. Her true emotions will always be in her eyes no matter how else she tries to bury them. "I know you'll try. Cayde. And that's all I can ask..." But Cayde doesn't know what happened. And this isn't the Zetha Show. They came here for a purpose and she's not going to cause them to stray from that. She then looks to Thaarin and gives a nod of her head. "I know I can...and I presume we're safe enough here to talk about it. I don't think there's any probes or whatever recording us. I just...I'm still getting used to being open with people. Like really open. If that makes sense." Zealot did just land, threaten and then take off again. Navi gets a nod, but nothing more. And then she leads them to the main opening of the junkyard where that cart still sits with the drill pieces atop it. "Right then..." 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Try? [But I will] Cayde insists, looking determined. He frowns. What had happened? Well he knew about a few things, but there was something else. He follows her over to where the drill pieces are still laying on the cart. 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "It does. It makes a lot of sense," Navi replies sympathetically. She hovers near Zetha's elbow as the Twi'lek girl leads everyone to the remains of the drill. "Has something happened since the last time we were here?" she asks, gently. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "Yes," Thaarin says softly in response to Navi, his expression growing wearier for brief moment. "One step at a time," he tells Zetha. "Would you like to tell us more about what it is exactly that you agreed to do? For the marauders? Regarding the Mandalorians..." He then sits down across from the drill bit pieces, and then starts picking up pieces that look like they could go together. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "Not all the marauders. Just one." Zetha says. "And not all the Mandalorians. Just one." As if that makes a difference. "Zealot came here one night. Actually...it was the night you had come to work on the ship, Thaarin, and then you almost passed out so I sent you into the house. As I was getting back to the ship...Zealot came. Landed in front of me. Pointed a blaster at my head. Made a thing about how he had the cortosis back, and he's upset because he apparently helped work out the deal that Wiis had made..." She begins... She picks up a few pieces of the drill as well, actually somehow fitting them together and perhaps trying to work out how to bind them. "He threatened me. He wants me to seduce the Mandalorian I know as Jasper. Because Jasper's got some lab somewhere and he wanted me to seduce Jasper, which would make him trust me enough to show me the lab. Put a probe in the lab.... because of...something going on that isn't good." That's all she says for now. Except she adds, "When I asked him what would happen if I refused...that's when he pointed a sniper rifle into Wiis' room...and...I..." Okay. THIS Is where she stops, because this is where she may just break apart. Again. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde frowns, listening to Zetha's story. A lab? Well maybe this 'Jasper' is the one behind the experiments involving a 1 year old adult human. But why should -she- be endangered? Why would Amarik threaten -her-...     He shakes his head before she can finish. [I can do it] he insists. [Zealot will not harm you] 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' Navi sighs, hugging Zetha tightly. "Sometimes I really hate that guy..." she murmurs, cradling the Twi'lek girl against her. She wants to cry herself. But she can't, because Zetha needs her strength here and now. "So Zealot wants a probe into whatever lab created Jasper. I smell those shifty Arkanians behind this," she murmurs. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Thaarin's brow furrows. "Zetha, I'm.. I'm so sorry, I wasn't aware. I guess I was just so tired..." He sighs, suddenly looking tired again. He picks up another piece of the drill. "I see the efficiency of it, though it's brutal and dangerous," he says softly. When Cayde offers to do it instead, Thaarin shakes his head. "Cayde, you know that's extremely risky. The Mandalorian will resist you. What happened at the farmstead --" "Of course they're responsible," Thaarin says, "they've been making themselves so scarce lately, and I'm sure the doctor's concerns about their experimentation with genetics isn't unfounded." 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     [Better to be me] Cayde argues when Thaarin says it's risky. Well of course it was, but it was better than endangering Zetha's life, wasn't it? 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "But that's the other thing..." Zetha begins. "The other day. When we were in the gorge and we found those naked men? You called them Kassady and Caine. But...they look /just/ like Jasper. In matters of hair, facial features and such..." She then sighs. "And previously..." She looks to Cayde then. "When you found me in the cantina? The first night I met Doctor Cassias without...realizing he was the therapist Crane referred me to... it's Jasper that I was meeting." There's a pause. She's not even focused on the drill anymore. "That night. Jasper invited me to the Colony. He had actually /offered/ to show me something he had been working on. Putting it all together. I'm pretty sure it's this very lab. And when Doctor Cassias and I talked in the colony the day after Zealot threatened me. I told him...I gave him the probe Zealot gave me. But that's when I offered to do it. I don't think I'd even have to seduce Jasper. I'd just have to find him...tell him I had a change of heart. Because I need a change of scenery or something..." She glances to Thaarin again then. "Which is why I told you what I told you before we went to the gorge...you've tried everything else. Maybe I'm the bait you need to finally hook the fish." 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "I don't like the idea of using you as bait, Zetha. Not at all. But I also know what it's like to need to do something," Navi says softly. "If you're really committed to this, we can try it. With some adaptations made for the sake of your safety." She glances to the drill bits. "Now maybe we should try to put this stupid thing together. I'm tired of thinking about it." 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "I don't like it either," Thaarin says, "but Cayde attempting to persuade him using his powers of the mind seems just as risky. And those are really our only two options." He sighs. "However... you're right, Navi. We could make it safer, we could have her escorted from a distance. We could place a tracker on her, to ensure we know where she is at all times." He turns back to the drill bit and hands Zetha another piece of it. "And we should make sure that you have a way to tell us to extract you, immediately, if at any moment you feel start to feel unsafe." 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde doesn't really like it, either. Why did Zetha have to risk herself at all? But it seems no one agrees with his ideas, so he just sighs and starts picking up a few of the drill pieces with the Force. Maybe he'll just have to find Jasper himself, before everyone else does. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "Whichever way is the way to go. I just...I don't know where Jasper is. Or if he's now in hiding or just sitting in the lab because of what all else has transpired." Zetha offers this and then takes the offered piece from Thaarin to try and place it together with the other ones she has. "Weird though, isn't it? That those two look like Jasper? Has there been anything indicating that they're cloning people?" Because what else could it be? Triplets? With one seeming like they're only years old? She shakes her head and then glances to Cayde. "Do you think you could get inside his mind? They say it's just as risky but...we're all going to have to work together if this is going to succeed. And I'm willing enough to be bait, but also to keep our options open..." 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "I was Master Windu's assistant in the medical lab before I put on this badge," Navi observes. "And if I ever saw anyone whose whole demeanor just screamed 'unethical', it's those Arkanian scientists. I wouldn't put cloning past them. We already know that the Vergence makes for larger and healthier lifeforms in its vicinity, which is probably why they built that research lab so close to it. It's the kind of thing that might make major medical and scientific breakthroughs possible." "Cayde or I could try to get inside his head, if we could find him, though Cayde is better at that kind of thing. He might be one of the two we netted yesterday... did anyone ever find out why they were stark naked and unarmed?" 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "Unfortunately, I've no idea either," Thaarin says, "the doctor suspects that yes, the Arkanians have attempted cloning. Navi's right about the vergence. It makes things that might not ordinarily be possible, possible. How successful they've been, well, only time will tell." He gives Zetha and Navi a severe look. "I just don't think that's a good idea. We all saw what happened at the farmstead. And cloning ... well it's never been attempted by anyone before. Not even where I'm from, has it succeeded. We don't know what kind of havoc that might wreak on his mind. Even with Navi there, it's just not something I think would go well. And while I don't feel particularly sorry for him, the last thing we need is a psychotic clone of a man we already deem untrustworthy..." He turns to Cayde. "You'll have to be part of the escorting party. We all will. No one will be doing this alone. I'll figure out the finer details and brief everyone when the time comes, but in the meantime, you should get some rest," he says to Zetha softly. "Have you any means of contacting 'Jasper'?" he asks her. "Perhaps that's all I'd ask of you. Find a way to reach out to him..." 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde just continues to fiddle with the drill pieces as they float around in the air in front of him, slowly rotating about. Some of them fit together, but there's nothing to hold them there except the Force right now. Had he ever heard any of what was just said? 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "I can't..." Zetha says almost suddenly. "Everytime I've tried to sleep...it's all I see. That kriffing blaster pistol settled right between my eyes. Or the sniper laser pointed right at Wiis' head..." She says this and then shakes her head. When Thaarin asks about her having any way to contact Jasper, she shakes her head. "I don't. At least, I don't think I do? I'd have to check and see if he ever gave me his contact details." 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "Jasper might get nervous with so many people around Zetha, but her safety's a lot more important than his trust. We'll find another way if he refuses to talk to us. Like turning Cayde loose inside his head," Navi says, idly watching Cayde assemble the drill in midair. "Cayde, did you catch all of that?" 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Thaarin reaches and strokes Zetha's shoulder briefly before withdrawing his hand. "Zetha, you're safe. I don't trust Zealot, but if Cayde doesn't want you hurt, then he won't lay a finger on you or Wiis." He pauses. "I think." He sighs. "I'll talk to Cayde later," he says to Navi, "as you know, he just doesn't pay attention well during group sessions like this." He turns to the young padawan. "You should probably give those to Zetha," he says to him. "'Jasper' won't have to know,'" he tells Navi. "We'll set it up so that he won't know there's anyone watching or tracking her." 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde does his best to hold the drill pieces together, and moves them in front of Zetha. Maybe she has a welder, or something?     But his gaze falls at Navi's comment. Right, as if he's some kind of out of control weapon or torture device. A last resort, an ultimatum. Like a bomb. But it was true, wasn't it? 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha finally gets it in her head that she needs tools for this, and so she reaches over and grabs her nearby toolbox, setting it down and grabbing things one at a time with which to screw, pound, or otherwise make the pieces fit together like they should. At least the ones currently in her hands. There's a glance given to Thaarin then and she shrugs. "Maybe I'll conk myself in the head with a wrench... seems to do the trick nicely." Then she winks at him. Wait. Is she flirting? Openly? Surely not! "He likes to stick to the shadows. Doesn't like to be seen. This much I know about him...mostly. Except for the one time he came to the convent. Again, I'll just have to see if I have his contact info." She pauses a moment. "So what's the point of us putting the drill back together anyway?" 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "We can do our best on that, Thaarin, but that doesn't mean he's blind, deaf, or stupid. We'll need a contingency plan, just in case he realizes he's being shadowed," Navi suggests, watching Zetha work on the drill Cayde's holding up for her. Off Zetha's question, she shrugs. "No idea. I guess the justice system likes jigsaw puzzles?" 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' Thaarin chuckles softly at Zetha's comment and gazes fondly at her for a moment, but then his attention is turned to Cayde. "You can do better," he says, "I -know- you can. I fully believe you're capable of it." He nods at Navi. "I'll think of something," he says, "don't worry. We'll have a contingency plan." There always had to be one, if Cayde was going to be involved... of course. "Well, perhaps he'll turn up if he hears you're looking for him?" "We need the drill put back together to validate some evidence that was aggregated against a certain colonist, Weniscio, for the murder of a Dug named Dresda." 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde just continues to hold the drill pieces there as Zetha gets her tools and sets to work, his expression still unreadable but his demeanor noticeably unhappy. He still doesn't look up, even after Thaarin's attempted encouragement. 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "Okay, then. I guess that makes sense." Navi keeps her attention on being moral support for the seemingly fragile Zetha. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha looks over the pieces as they come together and then nods her head in a sort of final way. "Alright. This piece is done." She offers this and then tilts her head. "Suppose it isn't enough that I could testify the drill was tampered with by a certain Chadra Fan and what he bought from here?" It's viable evidence, and it's even recorded. Even if the Chadra Fan was 'never there'...Zetha still recorded the sale. Otherwise Wiis would have had her head. She sets the one bit aside and down before looking at the other pieces. "This might take longer than anticipated..." 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "The Republic court systems will want both," Thaarin says, "Your eyewitness account, and the hard evidence." He pauses. "They might even want all of us testify back on Coruscant... I don't know when. Perhaps it could a welcome change," he says to Zetha. "It's alright," Thaarin says, "take your time. I've actually got to head back to Aklyrr, there was something Miss Graf wanted to discuss with me. But I'll see you all soon." He stands, and ruffles Cayde's hair affectionately. "We're still going to need you," he says softly, encouraging him, "when the time comes, to protect Zetha should the Mandalorian mean her harm. You're co-deputy, after all. You too, Navi." Then he takes his leave. But just as he leaves, another familiar presence makes himself known. 'Crane' must have seen Zetha head down to the junkyard that morning and had been missing her. Or... well maybe it's something else. He's running, and waving at the group gathered around the drill. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Yeah, sure...they will need him. To be the backup plan. The 'to hell with everything' option if things didn't go well. The monster in the cage to be unleashed only if nothing else worked. Because that's all he's good at, apparently.     He lets go of the patched together piece of the drill, and then starts working on another section. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "Sounds good, Thaarin. Take care of yourself and see you soon." Zetha offers as the man heads out. Though she looks back over to Cayde after a moment. "You know. Giving us all the silent treatment isn't very fair. I've had to learn to talk things out because holding it in isn't good. So...why are you being all broody silent suddenly? You understand I volunteered for this whole thing right?" Then she catches 'Crane' coming into the junkyard and she smiles a little while giving him a wave in return. "Crane! Hey! What brings you to the junkyard?" 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' Navi waves to Thaarin. "Be safe," she says softly as he departs. "She's right, Cayde. Holding it in just lets it fester. Let us help you work it out," she advises gently. But as she sees 'Crane' coming, she scowls faintly. "Just passing by and thought he'd drop in, no doubt..." 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "Zetha, Navi!" he says, his electric indigo eyes bright. "The governor of Kublop Springs is going to host a gala at his manor. The whole town is invited." "I want you all to come," he says, looking over at Zetha, and then to Navi, who, despite noticing her scowl, reaches over to grab both her hands and hoist her to her feet. He looks to Cayde. "You, too," he says. "I think you'll like it too, Cayde." 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde, liking a gala? Or any party whatsoever? In what world does Amarik live in now? The padawan also isn't giving Crane a very pleasant look.     << Why you threaten Zetha >> he immediately asks. << You lie and you hurt her >> 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "Wait. As in like... now?" Zetha asks and then she shakes her head. "I...I don't think..." Then she thinks back on the first time she met Jasper. At a fancy place, among fancy people, and her standing out like a sore thumb. Would he be there? "If the whole town was invited then how is it we didn't get any sort of invitation aside from you suddenly coming into the junkyard and letting us know it's happening?" 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' Navi comes to her feet at 'Crane's' urging. "A gala? Sounds fun, but it's odd that we haven't heard about it until now," she says. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' The Tholothian man responds. < And I had no plan to. Look, she's fine. I didn't shoot her, or Wiis. And now she'll help us. Listen, the Mandalorian is planning abominable things. And we cannot waste time, trying to find out a way into his laboratory. Besides, I think it will be good for her. She'll learn espionage. It's how I learned > "Of course not," The Tholothian man says. "It'll be in two weeks time. He just announced it, less than ten minutes ago, in the town square. You'll hear about it, soon enough." He hugs Navi, and the young Sephi girl will be overwhelmed by a sense of affection coming from the Tholothian man. Then he turns and takes one of Zetha's hands. "I really want you to come," he pleads. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     <Why she need that...I could have done it> Cayde argues, frowning. <You should tell her truth> he continues. The Tholothian will be able to tell that he isn't in a good mood at all. Something Navi had said earlier. 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' Navi returns 'Crane's' hug in kind, unable to keep from reciprocating some of that sense of deep affection. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Two weeks. Zetha takes in a breath and then shakes her head. "I'll think about it. I make no promises. Fancy things and me haven't gotten along very well." Besides, it's not like he's asking her in any capacity outside of the whole town being invited. She doesn't know what other conversation is happening, and therefore she'll turn and go right back to putting drill pieces together. She has to keep her mind busy. She might just work on this all night. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' <The Baron will not come at your beck and call. Neither will the Arkanians> He tells the young padawan. <In fact, he knows your association with Volken and knows to keep well away from you. Even I do not know where he is right now. And you will not find his laboratory without him> <You know I can't do that. It would destroy her, and then the truth about my dual identity would reach Xera. And if that were to happen, she would declare war upon the marauders and raze anything that got in her path of vengeance. It may happen, anyway, but the longer we can avoid this conflict, the better. Besides, I have news about the cortosis. Volken and his ilk no longer have it. They gave it to me, willingly, for information on the general whereabouts of my employer. And now, it lies at the bottom of the Temple, in a place unreachable except through the power of Jedi mystics. This should please you? I did it for you, because you're right about the Mandalorians, and because I wanted you to be happy> "You'll come, then?" he says to Navi, and then looks to Zetha. "I'll be there. I'll make sure you have a nice time." 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     <You shouldn't be with them> Cayde argues. So what if Xera drove them away? Maybe that'd force Amarik to rethink his position.     ...or, he could just tell Zetha himself.     The news about the cortosis doesn't seem to improve his mood. The result of the entire ordeal hadn't been the problem, really. It was more how everyone else had treated him throughout. And nothing could change that, or the roots of it.     But he shrugs and goes back to helping Zetha reassemble the drill. <Thank you.> 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' "If I'm not busy with more work, I'll come. It's been a long time since I got to dress up," Navi replies to 'Crane'. She looks between Zetha and Cayde thoughtfully, not missing the tension on Cayde's face. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' "I said I'll think about it." Zetha reaffirms. "That's the last I will say on the matter for now." If 'Crane' actually looks at her. Really looks. He may see in her eyes the slight puffiness from fighting back tears, the lingering terror because she just lamented her tale about what Zealot did to her not knowing that she isn't really in any actually true danger. The truth would ruin her? She's already ruined. And in truth if she learned that it was all a ploy...breaking her will be the least of anyone's worries. As Cayde rejoins her to reassemble the drill she looks up and over to him. Setting her tools down a moment she signs, <You okay?> Perhaps trying to make it subtle so the other two don't see her communicating with the young Jedi privately. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' he tells Cayde. And then to both Cayde and Navi, he says, <And recently, I've been thinking that once this is all over, if I somehow manage to survive... I'll have to disappear. The marauders won't want a Republic fugitive among their rank, that will draw unwanted attention from the RDC. But I hope you realize that once Xera finds out, people are going to die. Just my head on a platter won't be good enough for her. Some of them will be marauders, many of them will be colonists.> 'Crane' doesn't say anything else, instead, he plucks three flowers from a nearby tree and offers them to Navi, Cayde, and Zetha. Except for Zetha, he places the flower in her lekku and offers her a faint smile. 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' Navi accepts 'Crane's' flower, sniffing softly before tucking it into her hair, above her left ear. < For what it's worth, from someone knowing just how much you have to answer for? I really do hope you find peace, > she says softly. Noticing Zetha's struggle with unshed tears, she hugs the Twi'lek girl gently, trying to soothe her by gently petting her lekku. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     [I am fine] Cayde signs back to Zetha, although he still looks rather unhappy. [But thank you...] Then he just resumes a downcast gaze, not looking at her.[I don't know] It seemed random, but it was meant in response to the earlier questions about 'broodiness' that are most likely still on her mind.     <Not if you show good> Cayde replies. As in, prove to everyone that he's truly decided to leave that life behind. He glances at the offered flower, but doesn't take it. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha would sign something else to Cayde but then they're being invaded by others so she leaves it. If only she could talk with him telepathically on her own. Maybe she'll offer to do that whole mind trip thing again sometime soon. In all truth she wants to shove the flower out of her lekku. She wants to run into her room, flop onto her bed and sleep. But sleep hasn't come much, and shoving away a gesture seems rude. Perhaps even harsh. She doesn't know the whole truth yet. Just her truth. Her terrifying, sleep depriving, unforgettable truth. So she continues to busy herself with the drill again. She says nothing. Barely leans into the hug that Navi gives her. Keep busy. Work. Don't think. It'll all come to pass eventually. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' <No, Cayde. You don't who I am. You don't know what I've done. Even if I could be reborn, a lifetime of good would not redeem me. Xera would not forgive me, and neither will the law. Navi knows, and understands> He brushes Navi's cheek gently. Then he squats and squeezes Zetha's hand gently. "I'll see you back at the convent?" he asks. 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde just sighs, looking even more dejected. But that's the only response Amarik will get.     Zetha will feel some of his presence touch the edge of her mind. <If you need help to sleep...> is the offer. 

:'''{{#var:261|Navi (261)}} has posed:''' Navi releases Zetha. "If you need to talk, I'm always available," she says quietly, withdrawing into the next room. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Zetha feels that squeeze to her hand and she looks over at Crane. Can he see it now? All the emotion she's trying to hold back? The fear in those purple eyes? When he asks that question, she gently pulls her hand away and shakes her head. "No. I have to stay here. Fix this drill. Protect Wiis." The words are spoken softly as she goes back to picking up pieces to see what parts of the puzzle fit best before she makes them stick together again. "I don't think I'll be back for a while..." She glances up at Cayde with a new look in her gaze. Puzzled. <If only because I don't understand...how? Like I'm not questioning whatever it is...I just don't know what it is.> She's likely liable to squish her fingers in the drill bits as she pushes them together whilst not paying much attention. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' He pauses. He looks to Cayde, and then to Zetha, and for a brief moment, he looks sad. "Okay," he says softly. "You don't need to be afraid," he says to her, "the co-deputies will protect you." <I'm sorry> he says to Cayde. <One day, I'll tell you everything. And you'll understand, that some mistakes can't be fixed, no matter how much good you do. If the Republic finds me, I'll spend the rest of my life in solitary confinement on a lonely, remote planet away from everyone and everything> He notices she's being careless with the drill and reaching for her wrist, pushes her hand away while pulling the drill pieces away. "Maybe you should take a break? You almost hurt yourself just now." 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''      Cayde answers simply, shrugging. She'd seen that rooftop garden scene. Even that might be nice to sleep in, wouldn't it? And even if not, he could create anything, if she'd let him.     He doesn't respond to Amarik's further arguments that he doesn't understand, it only seems to deepen that sad abyss. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' Not if Zealot comes in the middle of the night, upset that she's taking too long. Finds out she's been talking to others about it and decides it's not worth the price he's paid or...whatever other horrible terrible thing that Zetha's mind can think of. Because she doesn't know the truth. Because the truth would destroy her more than the lie already is. Then her wrist is being grabbed and she snaps out of whatever side quest her mind was taking. "I...I'm sorry. I'm just tired. I'm so tired..." The tears finally break free, rolling down her cheeks as she looks at Cayde. Right at him. And just nods her head. Her mind whirling. <Whatever it takes. I just want to sleep.> This wasn't the same person a couple days ago in the gorge. When she saw those two men who looked like Jasper, it made her question things. Re-telling the story because she finally had the courage to admit she wasn't okay further opened the flood gates that were now crashing against the dam she had built in her mind. Soren might very well be getting a call or text soon. 

:'''{{#var:159|Athena (159)}} has posed:''' "You don't have to apologize," Crane says. Then, with some effort and if Zetha lets him, he'll lift her up bridal style and carry her to the couch, laying her down on it gently. Then he picks up a blanket and covers her with it, tucking her in, just like Wiis used to when she was a little girl. Then he steps back, to let Cayde help her quiet her mind, or who knows, perhaps Zetha will fall asleep even before the young padawan begins... 

:'''{{#var:143|Cayde Alexis (143)}} has posed:'''     Cayde nods and sits down on the edge of the couch, taking one of her hands and focusing on calming her mind by creating a scene similar to the rooftop garden he'd shown her before. It takes a few tries, but he eventually manages to send her there. A place far away from all her troubles, where the air is perfect, and a quiet, clear waterfall gently splashes into a pond. There is a small cottage, with a bed exactly her size that feels more comfortable than anything she's ever slept on, even at the convent. 

:'''{{#var:444|Zetha Rumir (444)}} has posed:''' It's likely sometime shortly after Cayde takes her hand. Zetha's eyes were closed, tucked in like Wiis used to, which brings a bit of calm to her. Then the place Cayde sends her to. Where there's no blasters or sniper rifles. Nothing else tugging at her. Just peace. Moments later she's out. Or so it seems anyway. 
}}