These Shattered Stars -- Logs

Before they know it, the long hyperspace journey is ending. The crew of the Malice seems to have gotten used to having these unusual strangers about, and no one is particularly upset or excited by their presence there any more.

Freyja has been entertaining herself these last few days, in her free time, by downloading and reading the Sith military/tactical treatises recommended by Lord Ghang. She's finding it rather slow going, especially since she keeps having to metaphorically shut down her sense of 'rightness' in order to get anything from them. She also makes sure everything is packed away neatly into the Eclipse, so there's no last minute rush.

The last night before the big ship settles in to Tanaab orbit, several people drop by the group's VIP cabin and say goodbye, usually with a few unobtrusive words and no fanfare. Some of the people Zero and Fhazil have worked with or trained over the course of the last ten days come by to offer quiet thanks and respect. Freyja is surprised and pleased to see her friends are well thought of. She watches with quiet, smiling interest as various of the crew stop by -- she thinks it's nice.

Zero meets everyone who comes for him or Fhazil with thanks and a polite bow, and a few words of deference or encouragement. He is not curt, but doesn't waste words. Although the stay on the Malice has been informative and enlightening, he feels now is a good time for the group to be moving ahead with their mission.

Fhazil also lets the people who have come to see them know he appreciates it, and letting them know what he thinks of their progress, usually encouraging, and including the suggestion to keep practicing. Freyja grins quietly, curled up on the sofa cushions and out of the way of visitors.

Saleyn comes by to give Vakkal a hug and to tell him, "Don't let me see you back here by yourself, you big silly!" She also teases him about not introducing her sooner to the nice Human girl's good-looking friends. Vakkal assures her seriously that he will do his best. The latter comment merely makes his ears turn red, and Saleyn giggles brightly before he can say anything.

Zero reflects that if people insist on calling him attractive, he's going to have to start believing it eventually. How curious. Fhazil blinks, and sends to Vakkal, Zero, and Freyja, I think I'm terribly relieved you didn't have time to introduce us. Vakkal replies, Me too. Freyja chuckles quietly.

Saleyn also has a hug for Freyja, and tells her, "I'm very happy to see Vaki wound up with someone who's good for him. He's very special."

Freyja smiles, hugging back and gently rubbing Saleyn's nose. "Hai, he is. Thank you." Saleyn seems very pleased with Freyja's answer, and takes her leave.

Lord Ghang himself manages to come by -- with his Soulguard in attendance this time -- to wish them well, and to hope the best for the conference. Freyja will rise for that, and bow politely, thanking him for his hospitality. They also wish well to all for the conference, although she does not expect to see much of it, herself.

Zero shrugs a little, and goes back to what he was doing. I think you worry too much, Fhazil. She looks like fun. He straightens up considerably for the formal presence of Lord Ghang and his train.

Lord Ghang's visit is formal and brief, as he knows everyone will be busy tomorrow. The morning comes quickly, and finds the four young people back aboard their ship, which powers up nicely. Naturally, they must hurry up and wait for Malice to settle into orbit, and for control to give them clearance to launch. While they wait, Freyja uploads the most recent HoloNews.

Balmorra is still in an uproar. The news of Count Mis' disappearance has finally made its full impact, and the Balmorran Moot is blocking the accession of Mis' daughter, his heir apparent, until the nature of Mis' disappearance has been determined. The disruption of the negotiations by the arrival of Khoud and the Bloodeagle has also led Balmorra to lodge a formal complaint with the Jedi Order and the Republic Guard... to which the Republic Guard gave a sheepish excuse about Bloodeagle's assignment.

The Baron Rigg has called for an investigation, and has demanded to know the nature of the Bloodeagle's mission. When told it was "classified," he is reported to have pointedly asked, "Since when has anything the Jedi ever done been 'classified'?" This sparked off an immense debate in the Senate itself, and a lot of pointed questions being asked of the Jedi Council.

It has been increasingly harder to hide the fact there's an internal conflict going on in the Order. One of the smaller tabloids has actually mentioned the word "Calefactor" in relation to "a group of Jedi who have philosophical issues with the current administration of the Order." Freyja initially reads silently, but as the news gets more absorbing her eyes widen, and she murmurs, "Listen to this, guys..." and starts reading it all aloud.

In keeping with his role as a scholar and philosopher, Zero responds to the news of "Calefactor" being mentioned in public with an articulate, "Holy stang."

Freyja giggles at Zero, then murmurs quietly, "Fascinating... they've given up on the Count already. I suspect far more of them know than are letting on." She shakes her head, adding, "I hope they don't let the daughter ascend until they're sure she's clean of intrigue."

Zero says, "...clean of intrigue. Sooner find a bald Wookiee."

Freyja nods quietly, "I fear that may be the case. I hope the Haus heads are wise enough to choose a better Count this time around, if so -- to remember they need a unifier in time of war."

In further news, explosions rocked Dantooine's capitol city earlier this ten-day, as rebel forces used a distraction attack on the spaceport to seize control of the auxiliary HyperNet "B" router. Denying the stories of total control over the world that the Sith have, Dantooine rebels called for a resumption of hostilities with the Empire in order to free the worlds that have been taken.

Freyja thinks a bit, remembering what routers are: they connect a planet to the HoloNet. 'A' level nodes are sector routers, while B and C are lesser-importance routers for systems and planets. So an auxiliary B router, such as they're discussing on Dantooine, would be small, not too powerful, and probably relatively easily captured by the rebels. She sighs quietly, considering. While she's very glad to hear people still object to the Sith occupancy, she hopes the rebels don't accidentally 'up the ante' by killing too many Sith.

This announcement is said to have severely colored the moves for a peace negotiation with the Empire. The Sith are said to have attempted very hard to capture the rebels alive and treat them well, with minimal injuries and only on fatality in their retaking of the router center. The Dantooine action spurred a number of other actions against "B" and "C" routers on former Republic worlds. Some Senators have taken to referring to what used to be considered "Sith territory" as "occupied Republic worlds."

Freyja smiles quietly regarding 'occupied Republic worlds.' It's about time they started using that phrase, she thinks. She's been using it for a while.

Zero says, "Interesting the Sith haven't retaliated more harshly. Given that Lord Ghang is taken to be an exceptionally liberal-minded Sith, I would have expected retributive actions from the presumably less-humane remainder."

Freyja says, "I think they're still trying to get this over with, with a minimum of death? After all, if what the farseers are seeing is being correctly interpreted, all the Sith need for this to end is Kalatis and Khoud." She checks the holonews, "Which reminds me... let's see what's up with Khoud."

All the news has to say about Balin Khoud is that he's expected to be at the peace conference on Tanaab. No mention is made of his hasty arrival, or his equally hasty departure, from Balmorra. Freyja adds absently to Zero, "Well, it is Sith Lord Methel-ssa on Dantooine, right? She had good reason, I think, to be gentle with folks -- even rebels."

The social sections of the HoloNews do mention the break-up of the Rigg wedding celebration week by unknown forces, speculating on anything from more interfamily bickering to interference by the Jedi themselves. Haus Rigg had a press release acknowledging the shortened affair, but celebrating and confirming the marriage, and promising a gathering later when all parties can be present. The release was quiet and unthreatening, and almost void of information.

There is also a message for Freyja, Zero, Fhazil and Vakkal from Master Roakkana, wishing them good will, assuring Freyja that he's staying at her parents' mansion and looking out for threats to her family, and telling them to contact an old friend of his -- a Jedi Master called Randal Sarn. He closes by writing, "As usual, the Rigg family has made me welcome, and Jedi Diath and I am more than well cared for. Waiting for your safe return will be no hardship, nor will staying here to be sure nothing untoward befalls the House. May the Force be with all of you."

Freyja sighs in relief, reading Master Roakkana's message aloud to all. She smiles quietly, glad to hear there'll be a family gathering later regarding the wedding. She'd like to give Leif a proper hafla ceremony -- the poor man certainly deserves it, after all this!

There is another message for Freyja, with a copy to her huskarl, Vakkal. Syf Rigg writes, "Frey, I'm so sorry your wedding party was interrupted. We have tried to make the best of it without you, and Mother and Father have promised all invited that there will be a true celebration as soon as you can come back to us. Mother and I were so sorry that you and Fafnir could not enjoy the festivities, and I know that I'm looking forward to having another chance to see you again. I hadn't really thought about how long it has been, or how much things have changed since we played together when we were small, and the idea that I might lose my sister before I got to know her again bothered me a great deal. Be careful, and come home as soon as you can. Love, Syf."

Freyja blinks at the message from Syf, then reads it again. Zero cranes his neck over Vakkal's shoulder. "Vakkal, check the headers on that message. We're sure that's the same Syf Rigg?"

Freyja looks up puzzledly at Vakkal, "Hey, Syf sent me a messa-" she giggles at Zero, then adds, "She sent you a copy too, Vakkal. Any idea why?" She wonders aloud, "Why would she suddenly now care abo-" Her voice cuts off as she has an uncharitable thought... which she'd prefer not to verbalize aloud.

Vakkal smiles wryly at Zero, and works his console for a moment before replying, "Looks real to me, although I'm no expert." He tells Freyja, "It's addressed to your Huskarl. Perhaps it would be rude not to send it to your staff as well, or perhaps she wanted to make sure you saw it? I don't know her well enough to say."

Zero murmurs, "How very odd." He shakes his head, "I suppose anyone can change." He pads back to the cockpit, muttering, "Which isn't to say that I'm not shocked half to death..."

Freyja shakes her head in puzzlement, "I... have neh idea." She thinks a moment... then simply sets the missive aside. It makes her feel faintly... odd, the way she gets around people who're trying insincerely to be sincere to her. She doesn't want to feel that way about her sister. Instead she simply continues checking the holofeed.

Fhazil looks over at Freyja, "Perhaps during the wedding, she realized that you weren't the awkward, embarrassingly clumsy big sister you claim to have been any more, but a beautiful, talented, intelligent person worthy of respect, and she wants a chance to know that person?"

Freyja smiles a bit tightly at Fhazil, then goes back to checking the holofeed. She has no desire to be used by her sister -- but she also doesn't want to do the poor girl an injustice if the note was indeed sincere. So... she'll deal with it later, when she can actually see Syf, and better read her.

Freyja looks at the others, once she's finished the holonews. "Um... I just had a weird thought, guys." She smiles a little ruefully, "What now? I don't think we can just land and report to the local Jedi constabulary, you know? Maybe we could just land long enough to make sure Ghang gets to the right place safely, or somesuch?"

Zero says, "I think that's probably the most we can expect to get away with safely for now."

Freyja nods thoughtfully, "All right, landing quietly and with neh fanfare -- that works." She reaches to close down the connection to the holonews, murmuring, "Interesting... I wish we had more of a feel for what we were needed for currently..."

Another message is on the 'net for Padawan Zero and Padawan Freyja. It is from a Master Randal Sarn, likely the same one mentioned by Master Roakkana. The message confirms this when it says, "Padawan Zero and Padawan Freyja, Master Roakkana has let me know you will be arriving soon, and have been traveling with the Sith. He did not need to suggest I would probably find it interesting to talk to you about this, because I definitely am. He did, however, suggest there were other things about you and your companions I might find interesting. He and I have worked together before and I have nothing but respect for him, and am quite intrigued by this."

Freyja blinks, then smiles, leaving the holoconnection up for the nonce, "Well, how nice of Master Roakkana!" She grins happily, looking up at the others and adding, "Shall we go visit him once we've landed?" She keys in a simple search for where they might find Jedi Master Randal Sarn, and any other news about the Jedi Master she can find.

Zero blinks a bit. "Surely you don't think the Master sent us to this poor man sight unseen. He had to tell him something..."

Master Sarn's message continues, "Your Master also thoughtfully included a copy of a request by a Balin Khoud to have you detained for questioning regarding heresy. Since our need to speak to you so far outweighs any possible benefit to such questioning, I have had no problem in getting this delayed -- hopefully indefinitely. To assure our ability to speak with you, the Watchers have sent Manishsha of Kush'ahn to escort you from the orbital docking platform to the conference center the Tanaab government has provided for the peace conference."

The message concludes, "A request for detainment, and a strong recommendation from my old Wookiee friend has made me very curious to meet you and your associates, and I look forward to doing so, both for the official reason of gathering information about the Sith, and to find out what terrible heresy Khoud fears but Roakkana supports. I look forward to the chance to meet you all, officially as advisors to the Jedi, but personally as people recommended by an old friend."

Freyja blinks, reading in increasingly fascinated amusement -- then finally bursts out laughing! Zero sighs a bit and shakes his head. "What a pompous thing to say. Heresy. You know, for a Cerean, Master Khoud seems to have rather a one-track mind."

Freyja finally manages to compose herself enough to giggle at Fhazil, "Well, we get to meet your favorite Kushiban again, hey?" She grins, adding, "Guess that proves the good Jedi Master is a Watcher too!" She closes down her search to find where they can locate Jedi Master Sarn -- since apparently they now have a cute little escort to him! She hastily amends herself -- Kushibans are not cute! Then she grins to herself, thinking, Just... very, very fluffy...

Freyja blinks as she re-reads carefully, adding interestedly, "Well, well, well... looks like maybe we will indeed be able to see some of the peace negotiations, then. That'd be a nice thank you, don't you think? Instead of the normal 'could you just leave now, please?' responses we usually get?" She grins cheerfully at her friends.

Zero says, "I'm not holding my breath. But for now, this will do."

Freyja adds happily, "How long until we dock at the orbital station? I wonder what species Jedi Master Sarn is?" She considers a moment, then adds excitedly, "Ooh! I do hope Watcher Manishsha can give us news about how the Darksiders' trial on Kalarba is going! I hope they're all doing well."

Freyja considers sending a polite response to the Jedi Master... then decides not to do anything which will alert Khoud any more than he must already be. There's a Watcher waiting for them, after all. What could go wrong? Zero can, for his part, compose a small list of potentialities... but he keeps them to himself for now.

Docking at the orbital platform is straightforward, and it is nearly empty because of the clearing of ships from local space. Control informs the Eclipse there is someone waiting for them. As soon as the ship has hard-docked with the station and the doors are open, the little Kushiban is waiting for them, smiling brightly. The voder he wears says, "Hello again, Jedi and friends of Jedi!" in response to his quiet whispering to it.

Freyja grins, crouching with her arms crossed on her knees, so she's more even with the Kushiban's eye level, "Heiyo, Watcher Manishsha! Haven't seen you since Kalarba. How are you? Do you have any news on how the Darksiders' trial progresses?" Her sand-colored poncho/cloak billows out gently, settling behind her on the ground as she talks to the short Kushiban.

The Kushiban whispers to his voder, which speaks for him, "Greetings, Padawan Freyja. I am well, and pleased to see you again. The Darksiders have had their trial, and are working off their debt to the state by doing community service. The trial was held locally, and the Republic and Jedi both were told to mind their own business. The Kalarba government has recently begun negotiations to join the Confederation of Independent Stars, a group of separatist states in that region. Personally I find this satisfying, but I suspect the Republic and perhaps the Jedi were quite bothered by these decisions."

Freyja brightens herself as well, her voice relieved, "Oh, that's excellent. I'm so glad they weren't made an example of, for political reasons... and now maybe they can do some good!" She straightens, adding to the Kushiban, "So... you're supposed to escort us to Jedi Master Sarn, hai? Is there anything we should know first?" She doesn't mention it, but she's also relieved none of the Darksiders tried to make a break for it. She did not want to have to track them down.

Zero bows politely to the little Kushiban in acknowledgement. "Watcher." He excuses himself quickly to allow Freyja to go on speaking while he finishes seeing to the ship's mooring and general closing up.

Freyja glances towards the Eclipse, slightly relieved also that the Malice is in orbit on its own. Not only would the Sith battleship dwarf the Tanaabian orbital space station, and she suspects it has all the landers it could possibly need... but it's probably smart of the Sith to have a relatively quick getaway vehicle.

Manishsha says, "We were not sure when you would arrive. I have been waiting here to meet you, and the ship that left me has departed. If it is no trouble, it would be easiest to land in your vessel, and allow me to make sure it is undisturbed in the Jedi portion of the spaceport. Ground transport to the conference center will be easily arranged, and Master Sarn looks forward to meeting you." He chitters a Kushiban laugh, "And I look forward to his reaction to meeting Fhazil and Vakkal." He smiles at the two Sith and says, "You have nothing to worry about, fellows, I assure you."

Fhazil smiles warily, "Thank you, Watcher Manishsha. Your reassurance is not needed, but is appreciated." Vakkal nods silently, staying near Freyja. Fhazil says, "C'mon, Zero. Let's go down and see what's happening." He seems nervous, but not too much so, and goes back in to the little bridge.

Freyja grins, "Sure, we can fly down." She calls to Zero, "Hey, don't moor yet, Zeriza -- let's head on down as soon as we can, hai?" She then adds proudly to the Kushiban, "Take a look at Vakkal, Watcher Manishsha -- he's changed since you last saw him!"

Zero follows Fhazil along into the bridge. "What's got you so nervous, Fhazil?"

Freyja murmurs over the link, The Kushiban Watcher is the one who managed Fhazil's stay in the Pinnacle, when he was so claustrophobic, Zeriza.

Fhazil replies to Zero, letting Freyja and Vakkal hear, too, Yes, I'm reminded of that horrible time in the Pinnacle. Watcher Manishsha was there, and while he wasn't cruel or unpleasant directly, it does bring back some unpleasant memories. He adds, It also just sort of sunk in that we might not be entirely welcome here. I wasn't really expecting to be arrested on sight because I assumed it'd be okay with Freyja, yourself, and Master Roakkana. With the Wookiee gone and you two under suspicion, Vakkal and I are in a much less secure place than I expected. Not to say I want to be anywhere else, but it's just a little worrying.

Freyja says quietly over the link, We are all equally secure, Fhaziza. None of us shall leave without all the rest of us -- I will fight, if necessary, to make sure that happens.

Fhazil replies with warm thoughts and, I know, Freyja-love. I'm not worried about losing you, Zero, or Vakkal. It's the rest of the galaxy I'm not so sure of. Freyja grins a little ruefully, but her quietly happy mental hug to Fhazil is no less warm for that.

Zero hms. I was about to say... not to seem callous, but the level of mistreatment a Kushiban might be capable of administering to a strong Force user seemed a bit low. Well, regardless, there's no use in fearing. It will only get in the way of useful thought when the time comes to act.

Fhazil lets Zero and the others know, Oh, I'm sure Manishsha could be as dangerous and threatening as he wanted to. I don't think they wanted to, though. I just kept seeing the tiny little stone cells as my own coffin, and the long, dark, cold hallways as the darkest pits of hell, and being sure I was going to be left there -- alone, forgotten, and unwanted forever. Watcher Manishsha was there with me while I was so upset, and it makes it hard not to remember that unreasoning fear.

Freyja sends a quiet, gentle nudge to Fhazil, trying to persuade him not to fixate currently on the unpleasant past. They have plenty of lovely present together, after all. Think about that instead!

Manishsha spends a moment studying Vakkal at least partly with other senses than his eyes. He looks as astonished as a three foot tall rabbit can, saying, "My! That is quite the change! I can only say that I approve of the leaning towards Light over Dark, although I hope this is something you're happy with and pleased by." Vakkal replies easily, "I am pleased by it, Watcher. It is a change, but one that has been good for me."

Freyja waves a welcoming arm to the diminutive Watcher, inviting him aboard, "Shall we?" She quietly manages things so Fhazil and Zero are left alone by the Watcher. Instead she makes sure the Kushiban is settled on some big cushions in the common room, and makes tea, chatting quietly with him and keeping him busy so her friends can navigate downside in peace.

On the trip down, Fhazil sends, Once again, I'm impressed by Master Roakkana's forethought in letting just the right people know we're coming, in just the right ways. He is a very excellent Master, and I am glad we've got someone of his experience, wisdom, and skill on our side.

Freyja thinks happily, Hai, he is pretty wonderful!

The landing at Tanaab's spaceport is uneventful, the control center routing them easily and without fuss to land with the other Jedi ships. Any fuss would be after they'd landed anyway, so as to not risk an in-flight disaster. With the Watcher's credentials going into the landing computer, along with an anonymous, almost blank registry for their ship, there is no fuss at all. A skimmer van is waiting, apparently at the Watcher's notice of their arrival, to take them to the conference center.

The conference center is set away from the city and is a spacious place with gardens and fountains, and conference rooms offering good video and HoloNet connections. The various people attending have all been given quarters in the associated hotels. The Sith have a wing of the hotel to themselves, and have been offered excellent accommodations, as benefits powerful visiting dignitaries. It is the best facilities that Tanaab has to offer, and it is quite pleasant.

Freyja's both pleased and relieved the Sith are being treated well. She looks around with interest, wondering if they'll see any. The Watcher informs them, "The Sith have not yet landed. They are completing their in-flight scans and will be landing later in the evening. Let us get you keys to your rooms and then go see Master Sarn. I'm sure he is anxious to meet you." Freyja nods, following along with great interest. After this build-up from Master Roakkana, she rather wishes to meet the mysterious Jedi Master Sarn!

Hotel rooms in the conference center's hotel are like hotel rooms everywhere, and Freyja, Zero, Fhazil, and Vakkal are given four adjoining rooms. The hotel is nice, probably a four-star business hotel, and has been completely cleared but for this conference. The Tanaab government wants nothing to disturb the dangerous visitors from far away while they're around this planet. The hotel's staff is, therefore, idle and able to handle any request easily.

Freyja is a bit surprised at their receiving four separate rooms. Discreetly she murmurs to the Kushiban, "Your pardon, Watcher, but who is paying for this? We can make do with fewer rooms, if this would be helpful?" She adds a little worriedly, "Will the Sith be all right here, do you think?"

The Watcher smiles and tells her, "Your thoughtfulness and concern is noted, Padawan Freyja." He explains, "When the Tanaabian government heard the conference was going to be here, they arranged for sole use of this entire facility. They both wanted to make sure nothing interrupted it, and that none of the people were frightened by the Sith arrival. You could almost each have a whole floor in the hotel, if you liked. The Sith will be on a floor of their own, with as much isolation from the rest of the hotel as they like. Every effort to make them comfortable will be made."

Zero murmurs, "A Sith delegation, a Jedi delegation, a hotel full of staff and retainers, diplomats of all stripes... and four wanted heretics, closed up in one large hotel together for several days and nights. The potential for political intrigue and slapstick comedy is astronomical."

Freyja thanks the Watcher for the news, then smiles a little worriedly at Zero, "I hope it all turns out well..."

Zero says, "Good or ill, this will most certainly be the most interesting hotel stay we've ever made."

Freyja says, "I... suppose so. I wonder how many Sith Lord Ghang will bring downside with him." She worries a bit, hoping the Sith Lord understands clearly their oaths are neh longer binding... and her Haus can neh longer protect him. She considers, then relaxes a bit. She remembers explaining that to him -- and he's neh fool, after all. She also wonders a little wistfully if there's any place outdoors they'll be able to go. She'd really like to wander around some natural area, with animals again.

After dropping their things off in whatever combination of rooms they see most fit, curiously but not judgmentally watched by the Watcher, he escorts them to a small conference room that Master Sarn is apparently using as an office. The table, which has eight chairs (four on each side), has Master Sarn sitting at the middle, with papers spread out all across the table in front of him, a number of datapads, and three comm units, one with a room speaker and microphone attachment.

Randal Sarn is a tall, thin, balding, and graying Human, whose most notable feature is his long hair and sharp brown eyes. The lack of hair on top is made up for by the length of what he has, which is in a pony tail that goes most of the way down his back in thin wispy strands. He's wearing Jedi robes and a com-link in one ear, which is plugged in to one of the units on the desk. He looks up and smiles as people arrive, his face lighting up as he says, "Manishsha! You've made it." He stands and comes around meet the others, bowing politely, and saying, "It is a pleasure to meet you all."

Zero bows politely to Master Sarn. "Sah. And you, Honored Master."

Freyja returns the polite bow, "Jedi Master Sarn, we are honored. May I introduce my huskarl and Soulguard, Vakkal of Balmorra, and my triat brothers -- Padawan Zero Satau of Sedrak and Journeyman Fhazil Taas of Ziost?" Better, she thinks, to be completely honest up front. It's not like they can or should hide anything here. She adds politely, "I hight Freyja Rigg of Balmorra, Padawan to Master Roakkana of Kashyyyk."

Zero closes one hand over the other behind him, holding the scabbarded shard-blade. "Though, to be perfectly honest, it may be 'former' Padawan before very long, at least in my case. That, of course, being part of the fuss over our arrival."

Freyja smiles a bit tightly at Zero, "We don't know that yet, Zeriza."

Master Sarn says, "Padawan Freyja, Padawan Zero, your master sends recommendations of you, and considering the people you seem to be traveling with," and here he gives the two Sith an odd look, "I can see why he would do so." He gestures to the four seats away from him at the table, "Please, sit down. There is much we must discuss." He nudges one of the chairs around from the other side for the Watcher, and moves back to sit himself.

Freyja settles gracefully into the nearest chair, making sure there's room for everyone else as well. She studies the Jedi Master with interest, wondering what he wants so badly from them that he'll clearly thwart Khoud for it. She wonders, though, why the people they travel with matters as to why Master Roakkana would recommend them.

Sarn smiles, "There were some concerns, yes. Before we get too deep into conversation, is there anything I can get for you? The hotel has been bending over backwards to make sure we're fed well and have exactly what we need, and I'd hate to disappoint their staff by not offering that kindness to you now."

Freyja thinks a moment, then says politely, "Tea, perhaps, for us all?" She considers. Perhaps it was due to Master Roakkana wanting them to not all be condemned out of hand. If so, she appreciates his efforts deeply. She'll have to thank him properly someday... especially since he's also still caring for her family.

Zero sits down at one of the farther chairs, not to avoid the Master so much as to avoid disturbing the mass of paperwork when he rests the blade on the table, folding his hands over it. "Tea, if that is not too much trouble, would be lovely." Freyja eyes the papers curiously. Must be a slightly old-fashioned Jedi Master. Most stick to holoscans now, she thought.

Randal says, "Tea is easy. If we talk too long, remind me and we'll have some sandwiches sent in. I suspect it will be a long afternoon." He works the comlink in his ear for a moment, talking to room service, then takes it out, tosses it on the desk, and sits down. He looks at the four visitors, "Let me get my curiosity out of the way first... what has led you two Padawans to be traveling with a Journeyman Sith and one of the fierce canid fighters from the front lines? Most Jedi would be terrified of these two, yet here you are."

Freyja smiles. Zero says, "Pardon me, Master Sarn?"

Freyja says, "Um... well, unfortunately three of us are under Jedi Seal, Master Sarn, so we can't really speak of how we came to be together." A little curiously she looks at the Kushiban and adds, "I... would have thought you might like to update him, Watcher Manishsha?" Even more curiously she adds, "Or... has the Seal been removed yet?" She mutters half under her breath, "That'd be... entirely too reasonable..."

Master Sarn asks, "Are you permitted to tell me the nature of the Seal you are under?"

Zero says, "Only that we are forsworn from discussing the events of the Marnaas incident or what our involvement in it may have been."

Freyja looks a bit puzzled, "Er... one where we do not discuss the subjects under Seal, Master. Um... are there other kinds?" She nods in agreement with Zero's comment.

Zero adds rather dryly, "For heretics, we have been rather scrupulously honest in keeping the Order's secrets for it." Freyja grins a little unhappily at Zero, but remains silent.

While he has this explained, Sarn reaches over and works one of the datapads. Despite the wash of paper, the 'pad is modern and he seems skilled in using it. "Hmm." He adds to Freyja, "Discuss which topics, Padawan. Marnaas, is it?" A few moments later a machine under the desk whirrs and extrudes more paper, which he considers, reads, and puts in a stack with some others. He says, "So, you cannot tell me how you met. Can you tell me why you stay together, apparently peaceably? Why does Vakkal here hail from Balmorra, rather than from," the Jedi checks a different piece of paper, "Khar Velos." He looks up to Vakkal and asks, "Am I pronouncing that right?"

Freyja looks faintly astonished at all the paper she's seeing, but looks up at the question, then at Vakkal, to see if he'd like to answer, himself. Vakkal looks a little startled at being addressed, but replies, "Yes, sir, that is correct."

A bit absently Freyja adds, "Watcher Manishsha could tell you, honored Master, as could Journeyman Fhazil." Mentally she adds to Vakkal, He's a Master, sweetheart.

Sarn says, "Please, you can relax. I'm not going to hurt any of you. I'd really like to help you with whatever it is you're doing, because I can see it's obviously unusual and different. Anything which can bring such a diverse group together is something I am very much interested in right now, and I trust it's something reasonable because you've got Master Roakkana's strong support. Anything I can find out that will make it easier for us to get along with the Sith, I want to know all about."

Zero says, "Actually, Master Sarn, there is something I have been curious to know since we arrived."

Freyja tilts her head interestedly at the Jedi Master, both pleased and warily fascinated, "Truly? May I ask why, honored Master? Oh! Er, after Zero is done, that is?"

At that moment a knock at the door announces the arrival of tea. A member of hotel staff brings in a teapot, cups, and a portable water heater, as well as several pitchers of water and glasses. While she sets these things up on a cart at the end of the room, she watches Vakkal warily. Sarn says, "Thank you again, Jeanette. Your help is appreciated." The shy Human woman nods, then flees the room. Sarn says, "What have you been wondering, Padawan Zero? I am happy to tell you what I can."

Freyja smiles a little ruefully, rising gracefully to take care of serving tea while the Master answers. She settles the tray in the middle of the table, then quietly proceeds with the hetaera tea ritual she knows. It's relaxing and calming, and here is a good place for more calm, she thinks. The poor Tanaabians... they must be terrified.

Zero says, "On my homeworld, despite the prevalence of holographic technology, we still use paper for a variety of things mostly peculiar to our own culture... but these are considered luxuries, something for the well-to-do to indulge in -- especially among star farers, given how difficult it is to transport, compared to a datapad. If I may ask, what is it that brings a Jedi Master to carry so much paper?"

Freyja looks up in interest -- she wants to know that also! -and she's too polite to crane her neck to see if she can read any of them.

Sarn says, "I could spin you all a yarn about how it's all related to interpersonal relationships, ancient traditions, blah, blah, blah. I won't. I think it's tolerated as much as it is because I get things done wherever I go, and I'm successful and productive. If I do that, a habit like this, that is relatively harmless, is easily tolerated. As to shipping it -- I don't. I keep everything on holostorage, like everyone else, and only move the printer between locations. The paper is destroyed and reused, and made locally. You can get it most places if you know what to ask for."

He picks up a stack, straightens it, puts it down, and picks up another, running his fingers through it, explaining, "I like the way it feels. It helps me think. It gives me something to hold, or I fidget. It lets me visually sort ideas out over a large space and try to make connections to them. But mostly, I like it. I used to use dozens of holopads, but this is better. It's a habit I picked up on a relatively primitive world like you're describing, that's stuck with me."

Freyja grins at the Master, then looks back at the tea she's working with... so she doesn't fidget either. Her smile becomes quieter, and she starts pouring for everyone. She'll pass teacups to everyone -- the two ranking Jedi first -- then says quietly, "Then I would ask a question also, if I may, Jedi Master. Why are you keen to learn about the Sith in general, and us in particular, please?"

Zero says, "I wouldn't call Sedrak primitive by any stretch -- but I understand. Thank you."

The Master says, "Oh? You're from Sedrak? Were you involved in the war there? I read about it; that's one of the worst things the Jedi have let happen in ages. I'm so sorry, both in general principle and for all the people personally who were affected by it, that the Jedi didn't get involved sooner and try to get the fighting contained. Idiots on the Council said it was of no importance and would clear itself up shortly." He adds, "Luckily, not everyone listens to them exactly all the time."

Freyja looks faintly embarrassed, and just hushes up with her tea. She blinks a moment later. She can practically feel the hair on the back of Zero's neck standing up -- the comment about 'primitive' struck a sensitive spot for him! She sends a quiet, gentle mental stroking down his back to him.

To Freyja, Sarn says, "Why I'm interested in hearing about the Sith? I'd have thought it obvious. Perhaps it isn't, which is why I'm here. The Sith came out of nowhere and attacked us. They're taking our planets, hurting people, and causing unhappiness and anguish. We don't know why! We don't know what they want, how they think, how they treat each other, how they expect to be treated, or anything! How can we go into a negotiation with them with any confidence that we won't insult them or disgrace ourselves to the point they won't speak to us, when we know so little about them."

Zero says, "I was born in the Yuenbao Complex and fought there until I was seventeen, yes. I appreciate your sentiment, though apologies are not necessary. It was a sad and sorry chapter in my planet's history, and that of the Republic, but it is a closed one. Time has a way of closing that sort of wound."

Freyja adds calmingly, "We've been on Sedrak since then, Jedi Master. It's a lovely, cosmopolitan place... and the indigenous natives were very kind to us also." Then she blinks at Sarn's comment, saying confusedly, "Your pardon, honored Master... but shouldn't you be talking with Sith Lord Ghang, not us, to find out what they want?" She hesitates, then adds puzzledly, "Er... unless I'm missing something obvious here...? I mean... well, he was quite pleasant to us...?"

Master Sarn says to Zero, "I'm pleased to hear you're so sanguine about what's happened. That doesn't change the fact that we could have done better. And it doesn't change the fact that we're fools if we don't learn from that kind of mistake and try and do better in the future."

He smiles to Freyja, "I'm pleased to hear that. I spent some time on a primitive place -- we had electricity on a good day -- and I know they can be as charming and lovely as any metropolis, and sometimes more. I also know it's nice to have the toilets work all the time, and it's good to hear Sedrak is growing and stable after its times of trouble. I must admit, I haven't kept up on it, as I've been busy with other things." Then he looks quietly stunned at Freyja's last words. He says, "You've... spoken... to... Lord... Ghang?"

Zero says, "Oh, yes. Quite excellent taste in literature."

Freyja winces at the returned comment of 'primitive,' then tries carefully to let the Jedi Master know, "Ah, Jedi Master... pardon my, um... forwardness... but Sedrak really is cosmopolitan. It wasn't their fault the worms made them shut down the energy farms, truly." A second later she blinks again, then says, "Wait, please. May we discuss one place or person at a time? I fear I grow confused?"

The Jedi Master blinks and says, "Worms?" He then says, "Yes. Let's talk about one thing at a time. I haven't meant to suggest that anything about Sedrak isn't very pleasant. I'm sure everyone has benefited by the war's end." He looks at the others present, "Is there anything else about Sedrak?"

Zero clears his throat softly. "Regarding Lord Ghang, that is. Regarding Sedrak, I will just say that I was not always so sanguine and that I have much to thank my master and my companions for." To Freyja he adds, softly, "Master Sarn has not kept up with the state of my homeworld, nor should he be expected to... it's all right."

Freyja takes a deep breath, then says firmly, "The Republic parts of Sedrak are not primitive, honored Master, although the indigenous natives might be so considered by non-xenoanthropologists." She adds quietly, "Pardon my emphasis, please."

Almost idly, Sarn has worked with one of his holopads, and glances at it. He says, "Oh, my. Force-attacking worms which attacked power units." His eyes flicker over the display, and he prints that article out too, adding it to a stack. He asks, "Was it your intervention that figured out how to control the worms? This article suggests it was."

Freyja gives Zero a troubled look. The Master might not be up on other worlds, but still... one doesn't refer to someone else's home as quaintly primitive! It's just... not done, she thinks! She adds, "Ah, hai, Master." A little wistfully she adds, "Sedrak was the last time, aside from my home, that we got to be around animals much." More cheerfully she adds, "The animals on Sedrak are quite fun to be with, too!"

Zero smiles reassuringly to Freyja, adding silently, I can't avenge every slight, despite my culture. Especially all the unintended ones. But thank you for worrying for me, my love.

Freyja curiously asks, "So how are the worms doing, Master? Well, I hope?" She thinks firmly to Zero, Perhaps not, sweetheart... but still, I don't think there's anything wrong with friends looking out for each other -- or for people not to be accidentally rude to each other! I wouldn't call Ziost a frozen mud ball to Fhazil either, after all -- he loves it there. She grins internally, teasing Fhazil gently, Even if it does turn out to be a frozen mud ball...

Sang says, "I have no idea, Padawan Freyja. This is the first I've heard of them. Give me a moment and I may be able to find out, and I may not." He picks up his 'pad and scribbles on it for a moment, saying, "So... for a moment, can we put Sedrak aside? I must find out how you four got together, and why you can manage together so well. Perhaps that will help us be more effective communicators with the Sith."

Fhazil replies wryly, It is a frozen mud ball, but it's our frozen mud ball!

Freyja looks hopeful as she watches the Jedi Master. She does still feel a vague sense of responsibility regarding the worms, even though she did the best for them she could. She coughs suddenly at Fhazil's mental comment, then has to cover a giggle. Zero says, "I'm afraid that the how of the matter would require your taking up the matter of the Seal with Coruscant, Master."

Sang gives Freyja an odd look, looking at her expectantly, as if she were going to say something. After pausing a moment, he looks to Zero and says, "I will do that, never fear. However, you did say only three of you had been Sealed so. Perhaps the fourth would be willing to tell me the story?"

Freyja adds thoughtfully, "Regarding your earlier question, Jedi Master, of course we've spoken to Lord Ghang. Vakkal and Fhazil are his former apprentices." Then she sighs, shaking her head, "Your pardon, Master. I seem to be behind the conversational curve tonight. I'll hush now."

Sarn says to Freyja, "What?" then looks at Fhazil and then at Vakkal. He picks up his stylus and writes a note on the datapad, muttering, "Let me see what I can do about this Seal." After a moment he puts the pad down, ignoring the running printer on the floor. "So. One of you is not under Seal. Can you please tell me how you met, and how four such different individuals came to be together?"

Fhazil sends to the others, Should I tell him?

Freyja gives Fhazil a slightly worried look, I... don't know, sweetheart. He's starting to worry me. He never lets anyone finish, like he doesn't really care what we're saying... and if so, why are we here? More importantly, why hasn't Watcher Manishsha told him all this already?

Zero continues to regard the Master at the far end of the table quietly, one violet eye peering out from under his curtain of white hair. I'm thinking.

Freyja pauses, then says as carefully as she knows how, "Ah... Master Sarn... have you had a chance to speak to Watcher Manishsha about this? He is completely informed on this...?"

Manishsha says, "Randal, stop," through his voder. When the intently questioning Human does not, the Kushiban does something unseen and the voder says again, louder, "Randal! Stop!" This gets the Human's attention.

Minute adjustment on the voder puts it back to normal volumes, and the Watcher says, "Randal, you're not helping here. These four folks have just arrived, and don't know anything about who you are, what's going on, or what you're asking. Peppering them with a dozen apparently unrelated questions will not help them, nor will it reassure them of your good intentions." He shifts and cocks an ear curiously, asking, "That's not what you want, is it?"

The older Human looks startled at the outburst from the mostly silent Watcher, then listens carefully to what he is told. He sighs and puts down the stack of papers he's holding. He centers himself, using a simple calming mantra, then says, "Thank you, Manishsha."

Freyja considers the Watcher thoughtfully -- he's quite right. This conversation is starting to bother them all... she studies the Jedi Master thoughtfully. Is he sincere? Does his body language show him to truly wish to learn all the things he's said, for the reasons he's said?

Zero settles back a little. The Watcher has, rather incisively, set things as straight as he would like; no need to add anything. He waits for Sarn to get himself together. Freyja blinks at the sudden rush of information she's getting -- Jedi Master Sarn is pretty much an open book to her currently! He's obviously very interested in the problem he's trying to solve, and for exactly the reasons he's given. He's also apparently very excited by meeting someone -- four of them, in fact -- who might actually have some firsthand knowledge.

She's rather surprised at that -- did neh one tell the poor man anything about them?! She can tell he's under rather a lot of stress currently, and frustrated at having pretty much no results. Still, he does seem very determined to succeed, which she can understand. Like her sometimes, he apparently worries the fate of the Republic as a whole might rest on his ability to deal properly with the Sith.

Sarn brings himself back under control and says, "I'm sorry. Manishsha is correct, and I'm not thinking. First, thank you all for coming. You didn't have to, and you don't have to stay; you are not under any constraint of any kind."

A small, "...ohh..." escapes Freyja's lips, and she shares her information with the others even as she nods politely to the Jedi Master. Gently she says, "Master Sarn, may I ask you to ask but one question at a time, please?"

Zero says, "We don't feel constrained, Master Sarn. This is simply a lot to take in all at once. Please, let's continue -- one topic at a time, perhaps? I believe you wanted to know about Marnaas. Fhazil would be able to supply you with those answers... perhaps that is the place to start?" Freyja nods in agreement. They can ask why Manishsha didn't update the Jedi Master later.

Sarn says, "Yes, Padawan Freyja, of course. I will make a distinct effort to do just that." To Zero he says, "Perhaps it would be better if I told you why it is I want to know, so you understand why I'm asking and what things might be most useful or interesting."

Zero says, "That would be excellent, Master." Freyja looks relieved at that. Some direction as to what he's looking for! Wonderful.

Taking another deep breath, Sarn explains, "I have been, for many days now, trying to learn everything we know of the Sith. We have very little information on how to interact with them, at least in ways that don't involve trying to kill each other. Knowing their forces are good at one thing and bad at another does little to inform us on the best way to interact with them at this conference."

The Jedi Master gestures ineffectively at his stacks of paper and says, "All the military strategy in the world won't tell us how to interact with another people. Will they react better to an utterly strong and fearless opponent, or would admission of our concern for our success and people be better? Should we expect straightforward dealing, or are convoluted near-lies the order of the day? Can we trust them at all? Will they tell us what they want, or will they give us some only slightly related reason? Do they even know what they want? How stable is this kind of agreement going to be? Can we depend on any agreement we put in place lasting, or will it be invalidated by the next internal political change?"

Freyja blinks in sudden shock -- these people have neh Sith-culture-trained diplomats! With another shock she realizes just as suddenly -- the four of them are the closest the Order has to Sith-culture-trained diplomats. She looks suddenly wary. That's a position she's not sure would be good for any of them... and yet... they're not just Sith-culture-trained -- some of them are Sith trained, while others are Sith! She folds her hands together worriedly in her lap, wondering what the Force needs them to do.

Master Sarn says, "Not only that, we don't know what they know about us, and how they expect us to act. We know we will abide by the terms of an agreement, but will they expect us to be lying? How can we make clear to them that we will hold our end of an agreement? We just don't know."

Zero's face is impassive, but internally his reaction, though wordless, is something akin to "Oh, stang." Freyja nods silently at Zero's assessment. Less erudite than hers, perhaps, but equally perceptive.

Sarn says, "These are the things we're trying to figure out. In some ways they're ephemeral things that don't matter to what we're willing to agree to and discuss, but in others they're absolutely crucial. And we have virtually no information." He pauses, then asks, "Does that make more sense?"

Zero says, "It certainly explains your rush to know, yes."

Freyja nods again, her demeanor worried. Quietly she says, "What can we do to help, please? Anything immediate, in particular?" She adds silently to her Sith friends, Are you guys comfortable with answering any of these questions, or should Zero and I keep them busy and away from you both?

Manishsha nods, "Much better, Randal." The Human says, "Truly, I am sorry. This has been a critical problem we have had no leverage on solving." He mutters, "And everything helpful is under some Seal or other, and the blasted Council won't budge on most of them, claiming they know best what I need to know and what I don't."

Freyja smiles ruefully, gracefully shrugging one bare golden shoulder in silent commiseration. Fhazil and Vakkal look at one another. Fhazil finally says, "Master... some of those questions are things we can discuss with you easily. Others are not things we know, or feel comfortable talking about." Freyja looks faintly surprised at Fhazil speaking so, but remains discreetly silent.

Randal Sarn says to Freyja, "What we need most is to know what kind of people the Sith are, particularly those we can expect to be dealing directly with. Anything you want to talk about relating to what they're like or how they reacted to you or other people would be welcome."

Freyja looks a bit taken aback -- where does one start with a question like that? "Er... well, the ones I've met have been a proud and honorable, hierarchical, militaristic people. Um... they were nice to me...?" She grins slightly, "Except when they were trying to kill me, of course. But we talked them out of that. Um... I'm really sorry, Master Sarn, but... you're asking such huge, broad questions -- I... I don't really know how to answer."

Sarn also takes time to reassure Fhazil and Vakkal, "I absolutely understand that there are things you will not be comfortable talking about. I would rather not discuss them than make you uncomfortable. Please don't bring them up, or simply say, "I would rather not discuss that." and we won't. I would not ask you to break any promises or to do things that would put you in an uncomfortable situation. Anything you can share with us will be greatly appreciated, anything at all."

Zero says, "It should be noted the violence came somewhat earlier in our relations." He pauses, then says, "Why don't we try to focus somewhat? Perhaps a treatment of Sith Lord Ghang might be a good starting point, since he is due to attend the conference." Freyja looks faintly relieved, and looks at Fhazil and Vakkal for that. They're his former apprentices, after all.

Sarn says, "I am actually very curious how two Padawans wound up traveling with a pair of Journeyman Sith. Every other pair I've heard of like this would be busy trying to rip each other's throats out, and probably succeeding. I'd very much like to know what's different."

Freyja sighs ruefully and looks to Fhazil for that also, since he's the only one not under the Order's Seal. Fhazil has listened, and sends to his friends, I'm going to tell the man some about how we met. I don't see how it could hurt, even if the Jedi do seem to think that.

He says, "Well, actually they were trying to kill us. And they were doing a pretty good job of it, too! You see..." He recalls the basics of getting shot trying to take down "some damn Jedi" and the surprise at waking up in a Jedi monastery, as well as the promise Freyja extracted from he and Vakkal as soon as she could. Sarn writes notes by hand on paper through all of this.

Freyja grins, quietly sipping tea as she listens. Zero tries his best not to look embarrassed. I said I was sorry.

Sarn says, "Thank you, Fhazil. Do you have a title, or is Fhazil enough?"

Freyja demurely notes, I don't think it's the Jedi who're worried about this story. I think it's the Calefactors... and they don't get a say in what you do, Fhaziza!

Fhazil sends back, And I already asked why. It was your job to shoot me. I don't hold that against you. I'm just glad Freyja decided to keep us around a while.

Freyja curiously says, Asked why what, sweetheart?

Fhazil replies, Why he said he was sorry.

Oh! Freyja grins.

Sarn, unaware of this interplay, asks, "So, can you tell me why you're all still together?"

Freyja smiles, her eyes getting smoky with pleasure, "We love each other." She adds a bit more explanatorily, "And... we're a triat and a Soulguard." She looks at Zero, "Um... you want to explain the triat and the Sil- er..." She hesitates, glancing a little worriedly at the Jedi Master, "So... who else gets to hear what we say here, please?"

Master Sarn looks curious, "I've heard you use the word 'triat' before, and I'm curious as to what it is. It's not a word I know. Nor do I know the word 'Soulguard.'" He looks at Freyja, "The general items, particularly those needed to justify my conclusions, will be made part of the official record. Anything you wish kept private -- I am more than happy to give my word that it will not leave this room." He smiles and adds, "One of the other advantages of handwritten notes -- no slicer can find them, and a candle can destroy them utterly."

Freyja nods slowly, then looks silently at Zero, I don't know, sweetheart. I'll leave it up to you, regarding whether you mention the Silver Path or neh.

Zero thinks about it for a few moments. I'll tell him. Their existence is documented already; that doesn't mean I'm going to tell him where they've been or where they've gone.

The Kushiban's vocoder gives, "I too will be happy to give my word that nothing will leave the room. If it would be simpler for you or make you more comfortable, I could simply leave." He has a wry grin while he gets this said.

Freyja says gravely, "It's not if you're here, honored Watcher. It's who else will hear what we have to say. As I noted to you previously, some of the things we've seen or learned have gotten many people killed." She nods to Zero quietly, then sits back in her chair.

Sarn puts his paper and stylus down, "Then you have my utmost attention and my complete discretion." The Kushiban nods in understanding.

Freyja looks faintly relieved their warnings are being taken seriously. Zero leans back a bit in his seat. "Well. To address your question about the term 'triat'... you are of course aware of some of the divergent Force traditions, I'm sure?"

The Watcher says, "More than most, I suspect." The Master says, "I've read of several. Most are not commonly known, or so I understand."

Zero says, "By design in most cases, yes. You are aware some of them hold a different cosmology regarding the Force, rather than a dualistic sort of opposition as espoused by the Jedi Order." Both senior members nod attentively but don't interrupt.

Zero says, "Among these philosophies is the Silver Path tradition: a philosophy espousing a 'third way' by which both Light and Dark can be balanced and guided. However, even as everything defines its opposite, nothing can exist in a vacuum; Light and Dark and in-between are all intimately connected, or so goes this teaching."

"To make a rather viciously long story short, my companions and I here have sought out the teachings of the Silver Path and thereby attempted to seek some kind of balance in what has seemed an increasingly disharmonious Force and galaxy. The triat is a term for the connection that exists between the three of us. Rather than attempt to explain in tedious, esoteric terms, I would encourage you to extend your sense into the Force and study us carefully. I think that may be most illustrative."

Freyja smiles quietly at Zero, then watches the two elder Jedi thoughtfully. A moment later she adds, "We have done this because we have felt, and been encouraged by many wise persons, the Force needs balance -- and soon, or something will ultimately break." She sits quietly, a strong beacon of Light in the Force showing clearly and brightly. Although she doesn't know it, she's almost as bright as any Jedi Master in full meditation. She wonders a bit wistfully just what it is other folks see. She's still not sure exactly what the triat can do, let alone what -- if anything -- she can do.

Zero is barely visible at all: a misty, silver haze that seems to linger in the corners of awareness and float disconcertingly away from the focus of perception. Fhazil is quite simply cloaked in a faintly chaotic, fractal darkness -- but not the darkness of blight and Sithstain most Jedi associate with the Sith. Though it has elements of that, it is rather a darkness shot through with traceries of the others' auras.

Vakkal's Force presence is also unusual -- it is the rolling and chaotic boil of emotions, actions, and feelings that most Sith have, but he has no Sithstain snake nestled in the branches of his life-tree staring malevolently and warily out at any observers. Zero folds his hands on the table again and waits for Master Sarn to process this. "If you want, Honored Master, I can try to elaborate on this a bit further."

Manishsha's reaction is very subtle. He says a couple of words which his voder can only turn into a very quiet, "My." It's likely the voder is missing nuances. Master Sarn's is more notable -- he drops the stylus he's picked up and is twiddling. It rolls across the floor as he says, "By the Light! What an unusual collection of Force-signatures." He studies them for a long time, then finally answers Zero's words after opening his eyes, "That would be fine."

Zero clears his throat a bit. "To put it perhaps a bit too simply, our presences in the Force have shifted considerably, taking over time the archetype of whichever facet of the triat we have taken to embody. Freyja represents the Light unfiltered, a veritable beacon of life and creation... while Fhazil's aura has deepened to encompass the subconscious darkness that fills the Dark Side. As you can see, the both of them are inextricably linked to one another. That is made possible by my presence; I represent the Middle Way, the fine edge between either aspect. I am the balancing aspect that prevents one side from overbalancing the other."

Freyja sighs quietly, and simply pours more tea. Then she rises, moving to the door to see if there's anyone outside she can ask for some sandwiches -- she knows they're going to be here a while. Unfortunately she sees no one at all. She closes the door, looking around for a comm to call room service, as she doesn't want to interrupt Zero. Once she finds the comm she quietly orders sandwiches for a Kushiban, a mostly carnivorous sapient species, and four Humans.

Zero says, "This is, of course, an act of shocking heresy to the orthodox Order of Jedi Knights. This is why I mentioned that I was possibly about to become a 'former' Padawan, as I've chosen to embrace the Silver Path philosophy. While it is the feeling of the Silver Path that all three traditions -- Sith, Jedi, and Silver Knight -- are compatible -- indeed, can be integrated safely -- the more orthodox Order is, well, unlikely to agree with us."

Freyja murmurs, "Not just those particular traditions, either. They believe Dark-, Light-, and Gray-sider should balance each other."

Zero nods, "I would speculate that many previous attempts to achieve that goal, the spectacular and often catastrophic failures which the more conservative Jedi use as examples of why such an experiment is heretical, have failed precisely because they lacked a balancing third element." He takes a deep breath. "I think the fact that we are even bandying about the word heresy is at the root of all our recent strife."

Freyja glances at Zero, "I believe that may have been part of the issue... but according to the Presbyter, it was because either the Light or Darksider would overwhelm the other two." She grimaces slightly.

Manishsha says, after thinking carefully, "It may be an act of shocking heresy to the most conservative and orthodox, but it would not be to many other parts of the Order. It does, after all, embrace Light as a critical and important thing, and work to make it important and powerful." The Watcher pauses, then adds, "Only sects which deny there is Light, or which push it utterly away, are completely antithetical to the Order."

He adds, "It is true much of the Council, and many of those with power, are rather conservative and orthodox, but there are many who are not. I will not deny you have a difficult path in front of you, but personally I hope you will not be cast out of the Order for it. It would be to the Order's loss."

Freyja murmurs dryly, "Your pardon, Watcher Manishsha, but your words would be heretical to the Calefactors."

The Watcher merely comments, "And their views are heresy to me. What of it?"

Master Sarn listens to the Watcher and Freyja, then says, "I understand why Master Roakkana recommended you so highly. You are brave and true to your beliefs. I can also understand why Balin Khoud wanted you stopped for heresy."

Freyja's smile is even dryer as she replies to the Master, "You are too kind, Jedi Master Sarn. Perhaps, from what you've just said, you will understand when we tell you one of the two things the Sith want, in order to have peace... is, in fact, Balin Khoud, leader of the Calefactors." She folds her slender golden hands around the teacup, sipping quietly and wondering how the Jedi Master will react to the news about Khoud.

Zero folds his arms. "We are all of us merely striving to understand the Force which binds us all together as a universe. Are we not all learning? Has anyone ever learned so much about the Force that they can say with such certainty what its nature and its will might be -- that they can brand another 'heretical'? Were we always a dogmatic religion? When did it come to this?"

The little Watcher smiles and asks, "Is that a rhetorical question, or do you wish an attempt at an answer, Padawan Zero?"

Zero takes another deep breath, and releases it slowly. "If you have an answer, Watcher, I have been searching for one for a long time."

Master Sarn hasn't replied to Freyja's statement about Khoud yet, but he's thinking about it. The Watcher notes this, and says, "When power and prestige became associated with being a senior Jedi, when the Council began to have the Senate's ear and made important decisions... it began to be a desire for power which led to the Council stagnating, and those with the power trying to force the Jedi to the simplest thing that they could control. It is this connection of power to the Jedi that leads to such rigidity, or so I believe, and I am not alone. We try to keep the Jedi out of power for this reason -- to keep our Order that of selfless serving and helping of the Republic because it is the right thing to do, not because of the power we gain for doing it."

Freyja nods silently in agreement. Zero smiles ruefully at the Watcher. "On my world we have an expression: 'May you come to the attention of those in high places.'" He sighs a bit, then smiles again, "It's a vile curse." The Jedi bunny laughs brightly at this as soon as his voder translates it for him, whiskers twitching merrily.

Zero says, "In my youth, I never believed I would have become an idealist. And now that I have, I never would have believed what a bloody mess it can make for you. But... I'd like to talk to you some more later, if you'd like, about that. For now, though, we should concentrate on answering Master Sarn's questions, so that he will be prepared."

Sarn finally puts words together, "Padawan Freyja, this was part of one of the few things we do have from them, sent in writing from the Malice on its way here. I begin to understand it more now, and how seriously they will treat it. I don't yet know how we can agree to turning over a Jedi Master to the enemy for whatever it is they may have in mind... but I also don't know how to tell them no, or if they can budge on this need."

Freyja's gaze rests gravely on the thinking Jedi Watcher... and when he looks up at her, a question in his eyes, she simply says, "Former Senator Kalatis."

Sarn nods and says, "Nor do I know how to promise them a senator, even an ex-senator. Particularly a missing ex-senator."

Freyja's eyes are dark as she says, "If they are truly guilty of the crime of promulgating war between the Sith and the Republic, just to suit their twisted political desires, I think it quite the fitting punishment... to hand them over to the Sith. Or to let the people of the Republic have them. Sith Lord Ghang did say if the Republic could 'take care' of those two, the Sith would be satisfied. They were more worried, though, that we, ah... weren't made of stern enough stuff."

Zero says, "Although the Senate may not feel the same way, Freyja, and ultimately the decision of Republic justice is with the Republic. I don't like it any more than you do. I would just as soon have killed both of them personally as a matter of personal honor."

The Watcher tells Zero, "I am happy to discuss this with you, and I suspect there are many things we could share with each other of some interest, even if it is only personal. I also agree that later is better." His big ears twitch, and he says, "Perhaps after lunch." It is moments later that a knock comes at the door, and a voice says, "Room Service." Freyja gets up and goes to the door to retrieve the sandwiches, so some poor room service person doesn't need to fear entering where the dread Sith are.

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