These Shattered Stars -- Logs

Morning comes as it usually does, but nothing untoward or unusual happens. The rooms the travelers have been given at the Tanaab Conference Center are ones meant for business travelers, and a little nicer than Jedi might usually use. It remains dark, quiet, and undisturbed in the room they're all in, with only the faintest brightening around the draped windows to give away that the day has begun. Everyone can wake up slowly, recovering from yesterday's activity.

Freyja wakes up relaxed and feeling much better. Of course, part of her contentment, she suspects, has to do with being able to feel all her beloveds all curled up close with her. She smiles with lazy contentment, lightly running her hands over those she can easily reach without disturbing anyone. Vakkal has apparently woken up some time ago, but hasn't moved. He's watching and waiting, letting Fhazil sleep. The human has flopped partway onto the canid, and is drooling on him just a little.

Freyja grins at Vakkal lazily, her eyes half-closed to a quiet gleam. As she reaches over and gently nudges Fhazil's jaw shut, she wonders thoughtfully how things have gone so far. Hopefully poor mad Khoud and his supporters have been taken into custody... and whatever weapon that was has been confiscated. She softly and curiously murmurs to Vakkal, Anybody been around since we crashed?

Vakkal's quiet reply is, No one has bothered us. A couple of hours ago the message light lit up on the comm, but it didn't even try and beep at us.

Freyja smiles, Good. She touches gently with her mind to see who else is awake, if any, then adds sincerely, Thank you very much, Vakiza, for taking care of us while we slept that off. She gently strokes one hand down Zero's side, where he's pressed up against her, as she thinks. Zero sleeps incredibly deeply, not dreaming (as the other two can sense), just breathing deeply and slowly, his chest rising and falling slowly beneath Freyja's fingertips.

Vakkal smiles and leans over Fhazil to nuzzle Freyja's temple a bit. In doing so he nudges Fhazil, who awakens with a start and a small cry of, "Aaah!" Freyja lightly folds her other hand around Vakkal's muzzle, so when he leans back he can rub her scent on himself, then quietly touches Fhazil's mind, reassuring, We're safe, beloved. It's all right.

Fhazil looks around, very startled, and somewhat taken aback to have Vakkal cuddled up to him. Vakkal cocks his head curiously and sends, You okay? Freyja mmms quietly, enjoying the closeness of the four still, even as there's a faint gleam of amusement in her eyes at Fhazil's reaction. She whispers, Calm, guys... we need to let Zero sleep as much as he needs.

Fhazil takes a moment to calm himself down, then replies, Sorry. Was having a terrible dream.

Freyja gives a gentle thought-hug to Fhazil, adding quietly, Want to talk about it?

Fhazil snuggles against Freyja and Vakkal and replies, I think it was a dream, anyway. Do you remember when we were on Gyndine? How I met Master Uiello Tsung there, and he was so angry about the horrors the Brotherhood of Darksiders had done?

Freyja nods quietly, continuing to gently stroke both Fhazil and Zero with gentle golden fingertips. Did he have something to tell you? Freyja frowns, considering, Wait... technically he shouldn't have been able to reach you here... neh? Zero sighs quietly, murmuring some fragment out of sleep, and turns gently toward Freyja. Freyja smiles with quiet affection at Zero, gently brushing frosty hair out of his face, then goes back to the gentle stroking.

Fhazil replies, I don't think he did. I don't think he would be happy about what I dreamed either, regardless of my being a Darksider. One of the most vivid images he showed me was the destruction of the moon of Brentaal. Except when I dreamed it last night, it wasn't the moon -- it was Malice -- and the destruction wasn't the moon impacting the planet, but the ship. It was almost as if the two incidents could have been overlaid on top of each other, and you couldn't tell the difference.

Freyja winces slightly in her mind... then says slowly, If that is the what-might-have-been for yesterday... then I think we did indeed do the will of the Force in stopping Khoud, and we have perhaps done very well by not allowing history to repeat. It would have been both a disaster and a tragedy had the initiator of the death of countless innocents... were yet again another mad, Fallen Jedi shattering a moon and part of a world, in order to escape.

Fhazil replies, It would have been horrible, yes, and I'm glad we stopped it. I'm sure my great-great-whatever-Grandfather would have been happy about it too. What I can't stop seeing was that it wasn't the Dark that did this; it was the agents of Light who went too far. In the dream I was also paralyzed with helplessness, and could do nothing, only watch as the Malice burned and fell on the capital here. I know it wasn't that way, but it did not make for restful sleeping.

Freyja gently hugs Fhazil again, and gravely agrees, Hai, as you once said, it is the Fallen Jedi who are truly terrifying... not the Sith. Still, I do my best to keep the advice you and Vakkal gave me in mind -- to never completely trust a Sith lord of War, and to not trust a Sith lord of State or a Smith at all.

She curiously asks Vakkal, Pretty wolf, can you see if they left a message from before, or did they not bother when they realized we were still asleep? I would really love to hear Khoud and all his people were safely picked up, with neh one harmed.

Vakkal slides out of the bed and goes to poke the comm station. Fhazil turns over and snuggles up to Freyja when the warm fuzzy one leaves. Vakkal replies, Two messages, both left directly as text messages to be replied to when we can. One from Master Sarn, asking us to contact him as soon as we are awake. When he keys in the second, Vakkal looks a little surprised, sending, I didn't know you could get a standard terminal like this to display Sith. A formal message from Lord Ghang to Fhazil, asking for all of us to see him as soon as we're awake.

Freyja puts an arm around Fhazil as he cuddles up. At Vakkal's comment she laughs softly, then does her best to not move much as she does so -- she doesn't want to disturb Zero. She grins at Vakkal, Well, we're not all awake yet, so I think we can take a bit more time, don't you guys think? At very least I'd like a nice, hot, steamy bath before we have to deal with disturbed Sith and Jedi! She grins cheerfully, gently and comfortingly rubbing her cheek against Fhazil's head as she does so.

Zero curls his arms around himself and rolls onto his side. He seems to be sleeping better than usual. Freyja oofs quietly as Zero shifts, then grins. Ah, a hint from the Force... I think I'll go start the bath!

Fhazil replies, They can both wait that long, yes. Vakkal adds, Yes, but who do we see first?

Freyja grins as she slides lithely from the bed, rising and stretching enjoyably, shaking her head so her fiery gold hair tumbles ripplingly down her back, The Sith lord Ghang, of course. Jedi Master Sarn only asked us to contact him. She pads silently off to the bathroom, casually adding, -and we can tell Master Sarn what we're doing, so he can let us know what he wants in particular. Works, neh?

Some (pleasantly steamy) time later, Freyja is clean, dried, and dressed, suitable to contact a Jedi Master. As her friends continue to prepare, she tries to contact Sarn. Zero is up and around by this time, doing an elaborate set of stretches, and otherwise blinking and shaking himself awake. Tea, first, he thinks. Then pants. I should have pants for diplomacy.

The comm puts Freyja through to the older human. He looks worn around the edges and very tired, although his eyes are still sharp. He smiles and says, "Good morning, Padawan Freyja. I hope you've all had a good night's sleep and are feeling better."

Freyja smiles, putting her palms together before her face to do a polite, if abbreviated, greeting bow, "Greetings to thee, honored Jedi Master." Courtesy satisfied, she cheerfully adds, "Hai, we are all much recovered, although we should probably get food before we go visit the Sith lord Ghang. He has requested our presence as soon as we awaken, but I thought it most courteous to contact you first. This is acceptable?"

On-screen, Sarn nods and says, "Yes, of course. I suspect he is as curious as I am as to exactly what transpired yesterday. Having talked to several of the people involved, and watched from this side, I am certain the feat you performed was critical in our being able to subdue Khoud as easily as we were able to, but I can't say exactly what it is you did. Whatever it was, you appear to have prevented a terrible disaster."

Freyja smiles a little ruefully, "Oh, we assumed everyone would want to debrief us. If you'd like, I'd be happy to ask Sith lord Ghang if you could be present also for the meeting?" She curiously adds, "Who else was involved, aside from Khoud and those of us present in the negotiations room?"

Sarn replies, "Oh, we've said officially the Jedi took care of a renegade, and that's enough to satisfy the media. The Council is another issue altogether. I'll want to discuss with you what you want them to know before I file a report with them. As to Lord Ghang... at the moment, I'm not certain I'm at my best, and would hate to cause further incident by tiredness or thoughtlessness caused by stress. We've communicated to him that fact, and his staff has replied that tomorrow is fine. Hopefully I can get some sleep before then."

Freyja nods quietly, "Hai, Master, you do look somewhat tired." She pauses, then adds, "Thank you for letting us all recover, Master Sarn. May I ask if Khoud and all his people were safely picked up, with neh injuries?" She considers a moment, then adds, "And the weapon too... whatever it was?"

Sarn answers, "I wish I could tell you there were no injuries. Worse, I wish I could tell you there were no casualties. We called local law enforcement to cordon off the area and to try not to lose Khoud, and told them not to try and apprehend him; he's a Jedi, and they can't handle that. We sent people right away."

Here the older human pauses, and when he continues, the fact he's been up for three days is clear in his voice and on his face, "The police didn't try and apprehend him. The fire department, however, was not so smart. We can't tell if it was simply bravado, or if they weren't told there were Jedi involved. Two men were killed by Khoud, and one more fighting the fire that he started. Several others were injured. The power station burned, and the fire was very toxic and hard to stop. We hope to have power back to everyone in that city by this time tomorrow. We do have Khoud in custody, though, and most of his assistants surrendered peacefully even before we'd arrived."

Sarn adds, "Most of Khoud's assistants were locals from the power station crew who were told this was official Jedi work. The police have had no trouble with them; several are horrified at what they inadvertently helped do. We're looking after them."

Zero hmms. He blows the steam from the lip of his teacup and thinks. A victory, but not a clean nor a complete one.

Freyja sighs softly... then, a long moment later, takes a deep, slow breath. Another slow in and out of breath... then she simply nods quietly, her eyes weary. "I am glad to hear so few were harmed by Khoud's madness... even as I grieve for their loss." With quiet formality she adds, "Please let us know, Master Sarn, if there is aught we may do for the bereaved."

Master Sarn says, "Your concern is noted, and I'm sure will be appreciated. The Order has lots of people who are capable and ready to help them with their loss, and they will. At the moment I suspect there are several things that only you will be able to do, and I hope we will have your assistance with those things."

Freyja nods quietly, "Hai, we will do our best." She's silent a moment, then adds, "What of the weapon, Master Sarn? Was that retrieved? Has it been disassembled or rendered inoperative?"

Sarn says, "We have it. One of Khoud's pilots gave us the command keys, and it is secured in the hangar in the capital. It is under guard."

Freyja sighs quietly again, although this time she closes her eyes in relief. A moment later she opens them again and says to the tired Jedi, "In that case, Master Sarn, unless you have some task for us which you need to tell us about, may I strongly suggest sleep for you, and we will go talk to the Sith lord? Once you're feeling refreshed, then we could get together and talk to you of what happened also?"

Sarn says, "As much as I would like to get some sleep, I don't think I will be able to until this evening. I do need to speak to you all as soon as possible. When you are finished with Lord Ghang and ready to see me, please come right by. If you don't remember where my 'office' is, the hotel staff will be happy to direct you."

Freyja nods and reassures the Jedi Master they will indeed do so. A few polite pleasantries later, and she signs off... then puts a call in to Lord Ghang's quarters. One of Lord Ghang's aides answers the comm. He is perfectly attired, and any suggestion that he was disturbed by the events of the previous day is hidden -- if it were ever there. They seem to be as brisk and efficient as ever.

Freyja nods politely to the aide, "Greetings to thee. The honorable Sith lord Ghang requested we meet with him as soon as we awakened. Should we speak directly to him concerning this, or to yourself, please?"

The aide says, "Lord Ghang has told us that you are to be made welcome whenever you arrive, and his schedule is based around yours today. Please come whenever you are prepared to do so." He also has a room number to meet at.

Freyja nods, "Very well. In that case, could you inform the Sith lord Ghang we are happy to meet with him, although we would be grateful if he would grant us the time to eat first... which would mean meeting with him in about an hour, please?" She doesn't mention it, but she's quietly stunned at the Sith lord's graciousness. She's never heard of such consideration from a Sith lord before! She wonders why he's being so nice... he certainly didn't seem at all afraid yesterday. With a touch of wry amusement, she wonders to herself if this is the first step Sith lords take towards turning Bright -- consideration of others! She covers a grin, mentally tching at herself, and sternly focuses on the moment.

The aide says, "I will inform the Lord, who is anxious to see you."

Freyja nods, thanks the aide, cuts the link, and then orders food for the group from room service. Considering how 'on' they're going to have to be for the next few hours -- or days, even -- she doesn't think anyone will mind the group having just a little bit more relaxing time all to themselves.

The group has a pleasant breakfast brought up by quiet and unobtrusive hotel staff, and then goes to see Lord Ghang. They are expected; allowed through the security check on the floor given to the Sith and met by the aide, who takes them in to a conference room. It is much like the smaller one used by Master Sarn as an office, except it has wide windows which face out over the groomed grounds of the conference center. The Sith's lander is plainly visible from here. The aide says, "Please have a seat and Lord Ghang will be along in a moment."

Freyja smiles and nods politely to the aide... then can't resist wandering over to stare a little longingly out the windows. She hopes they get some 'down' time while they're here... she wonders if there's anyplace on Tanaab that's kept wild. Maybe they could all go wander around there and see if there are any animals... and have a little fun...? She lazily daydreams for a few seconds, watching a few birds fluttering cautiously around outside. Wouldn't it be nice to find out about the Sith invisibility shield too, for the Republic...

Zero bows politely, taking a seat whereby he can watch the door and windows both, out of force of long habit. No point in growing careless now, he thinks... Fhazil comes in and finds a seat, also on the side with windows, and watches Freyja looking out. Vakkal lurks in a corner.

It is only a couple of minutes until Lord Ghang arrives, followed quietly by Amn Noss, who lurks in the other corner. She nods silently to Vakkal, acknowledging his presence. Ghang says, "Good morning. Thank you for coming." He sits down on the side of the table away from the windows, and smiles, adding, "I'm very curious to hear how you would describe the events of yesterday."

Zero rises as Ghang enters, giving a short, formal bow, and sits again. He sighs a little, with a wry smile, "Very nearly a disaster." Zero has elected to wear neither his hood nor his braid, letting his hair fall all the way down his back and over the back of his chair; he just doesn't have formality in him today. It was extremely close to disaster, joking or not.

Freyja smiles politely, turning from the window as the Sith lord enters, then seats herself with her back to the windows. Although she doesn't realize it, she's now limned in early morning light, which picks out the gold in her hair and brightens it to a blaze. She grins ruefully at Zero, then nods in agreement. She asks a little worriedly, "Hopefully neh one was harmed?"

Lord Ghang laughs, and says, "Yes, this is true: very nearly a terrible disaster. I'm not sure it isn't a minor disaster anyway." He looks to Freyja and says, "We have a report from the Jedi of three deaths and injuries on the ground. I suspect you may have at least as much or better information than we have been given. We also have fifteen casualties on-board the Malice, and many more injuries. Considering what this could have done, a very low number, but more than anyone wanted."

Freyja winces slightly at the news, then bows politely and says formally, "We share your grief in the loss of your people. Please let us know if there is aught we may do to assist you in this time." Though the words are formal, her demeanor is quite sincere. Fhazil looks unhappy at the news of casualties on the Malice but says nothing, nodding with Freyja's words. A little worriedly Freyja adds, "May we inquire as to why you consider it a minor disaster, Sith lord? Is there aught else we do not yet know of?"

Lord Ghang says, "We lost crew on what was expected to be a mission without casualties. We were attacked by Jedi during a peace treaty; they lost their own trying to clean up after it. There are those in the Sith who would have demanded we react to this injustice, and to continue the war." He asks mildly, "Wouldn't you consider that a disaster?"

Freyja nods, looking rather chastised. Her tone is subdued as she adds, "I am sorry, honored Sith lord, that we were not able to prevent this." She falls silent.

Zero says, "I would hope calmer heads among the Sith would realize that we would not hold the Empire responsible for the actions of rogue Oathbound, and would hope the Empire would extend us similar understanding in the matter of our own rogue factions." His tone is perfectly neutral; he isn't trying to goad the Sith Lord, just stating a fact.

Lord Ghang says, "On the contrary, Padawan Freyja, if I understand correctly what happened yesterday, it is the three of you who prevented this from becoming that which calmer heads could not contain. You have nothing to apologize for. I would like to hear exactly what happened yesterday. That you three did... something... was clear, but what you did remains a mystery." It is clear Lord Ghang understood and agrees with -- or has been given direction from one who agrees with -- Zero.

Freyja gives the Sith lord an unhappy look from beneath her bangs -- she still feels vaguely responsible for the deaths, although she and the others did their best to prevent them -- then just nods once. "We didn't do much, really. We were the triat... we farsaw his location, aided Jedi Master Sarn in his fruitless attempt to stop Khoud, attempted to Influence the Battle but then realized it would not aid the Sith since you were not our allies at that moment... and then we attempted illusion, coupled with intimidating effects." She glances at the others, adding, "That was the gist of it, hai?"

Lord Ghang says, "And did your influence or illusion have any effect on the outcome?"

Freyja thinks a moment, then looks inquiringly at the others, "I was... rather wrapped up in the triat, at that moment. Did anyone else notice more of what was going on?" She adds to the Sith lord, "Quite frankly, I've neh idea what worked and what didn't, except for the farseeing and the illusion. Those we saw work." Then she curiously asks, "What did you see?"

Zero folds his hands on the table, nodding. "We gave Khoud the impression he was under attack. In his unstable state it was not hard to impress upon him, but... more taxing than I realized it would be; hence my collapse and necessary removal from the conference. I merely provided a convenient image; I believe Freyja's contribution of psychic fear, made possible by Fhazil, was the final straw for Khoud."

Fhazil says, "We all did what we could. I hope it was enough to help," and leaves it at that. Freyja nods in agreement with Fhazil, then looks curiously at the Sith lord. She still hasn't any clear idea what others saw, let alone what was truly effective.

Zero says, "Perhaps more to the point, did anyone see anything?"

Lord Ghang says, "Well, the report we got said he had been 'driven to the point of insanity' and was out of control, attacking randomly with his lightsaber and doing a very large amount of equipment damage. Were he still in full control of his faculties, I suspect he would have not been possible to stop with only the few Force users who could get there." He shifts his weight and says, "Therefore, it seems to me that you have absolutely helped."

Freyja looks quietly relieved. Zero blinks once, then his face resumes its mask of careful impassivity. Was that our doing? I'd thought he was on the edge to start with and we'd just given him the necessary nudge.

Lord Ghang adds, "Personally, I cannot thank you enough. Our engineers say a second shot, even a glancing one, would have been enough to disable Malice, and two well-placed shots could have destroyed it."

Freyja nods mentally to Zero, Well, that had been my assumption also... but what I said was quite true. I don't really know what precisely occurred, you know?

Fhazil sends, I'm not sure either. It does sound as if we did some good.

Vakkal tells them, You may have only given him that nudge, but you did that. Nobody else could. You saw Master Sarn fail twice.

Freyja sighs in relief... then blinks, getting a carefully wary look. Once again formality washes across her as she says, "You are too kind, Sith lord Ghang. However, please understand we are quite unsure ourselves as to what precisely occurred... and therefore you should not assume we were that useful." She's uncomfortably aware of both Fhazil and Vakkal's stern remonstration to never let a Sith lord feel indebted to you!

Zero shakes his head, "Thanks are not necessary, Honored Lord. We could not allow so many people to be killed -- on either side -- in an act of such dishonorable spirit. Our attempt to act, whether useful or not, was out of a concern for the helpless; and for the sake of both our nations, regardless of our degree of involvement." Freyja nods firmly. Not only is Zero correct, but it implies they weren't that involved. Excellent... that should keep the Sith lord from getting that dangerous indebted feeling.

Ghang says, "What I saw, and was able to report to the Dark Lord, was three Journeyman-level Force users who could bind together tightly enough to affect a Jedi Master from halfway around the planet. Whether or not you did anything, you could and you tried. That impressed me and the Dark Lord both."

Freyja winces internally. Her mental voice is very dryly amused, So much for staying out of the notice of the Black Void himself... She considers for a moment, then says with just the right note of bemusement, "Er... thank you?"

Zero keeps his face carefully neutral. His thoughts, on the other hand, ripple with consternation, Well. That's... news.

Ghang adds, "I also saw everyone involved -- Sith, Jedi, and indeterminately aligned -- react immediately and with all possible effort to stop a catastrophe, regardless of who it would hurt or help. It was that observation that did the most to keep those demanding retribution under control."

Freyja smiles. Now that she's pleased about. Zero inclines his head politely. "We are simply doing what we have been called to do, regardless of our personal alignments."

Freyja says with quiet pride, "It was the least we could do. It is moments like this which make me proud to be a member, however junior, of the Order." She's silent a moment, then adds a bit unhappily, "I... do hope poor Khoud can be helped..."

Zero says, "The Will of the Force speaks to each of us in its own way."

Fhazil says, "Wouldn't anyone have done that, though, sir? Who would stand by and watch such needless destruction?" Ghang gives him a long look, then says, "There was at least one so-called Jedi who was willing to cause it. And I suspect there are many Sith who would have only watched."

Freyja's eyes widen in startlement at the news there are actually Sith who'd just watch. "Surely not?! -er, your pardon. Surely Sith would not have just watched?" Then she firmly adds, "Former, currently Fallen Jedi."

Ghang says, "Yes, Padawan, there are. The Lords who do not value the lives of their people would have simply been pleased to see the assets of a rival destroyed. While I disagree with how they do things, there are many Lords who are this way, and they have many allies and forces."

Freyja winces slightly, not bothering to try hiding that. She thinks that's truly horrible. Ghang comments wryly, "I do hope this makes our statement that Khoud is dangerous and must be stopped a little easier to convey."

Freyja says just as firmly as before, "I do not doubt for a moment there are Jedi even now doing their best to aid Khoud in turning once again to the Light."

Zero arches an eyebrow, "I'm sorry, I don't quite understand, Honored Lord. I was under the impression he was stopped. Is he not in custody?"

Ghang replies, "That is not what I said must be done."

Freyja says pleasantly, "As I recall you simply wanted him 'dealt with,' honored Sith lord, and you never specified precisely how." Politely she adds, "Were you able to acquire a copy of the actual farseeings from the Ziost library?"

Lord Ghang says, "Our position on Khoud was more vague before he proved he was so willing to cause such damage. It has solidified now." He adds, "No, Padawan, I have not been able to get access to those records. The denial has intrigued me and I am asking why they tell me they cannot grant this."

Freyja looks faintly surprised herself as well. Some librarian actually told a Sith lord neh? She shakes her head once -- that intriguing mystery must wait for another time, alas -- and simply says, "Interesting. What form does this 'solidification' take, please?"

Zero says, "While we can certainly appreciate your wish for firm action, Honored Lord, may I suggest that Khoud has committed a crime of vast magnitude; in legal terms espionage at least, to say nothing of the attempted murder of several thousand people, both here on Tanaab and on board the Malice, and that the Republic prides itself upon its principle of all being equal before the law -- even Jedi.""

Lord Ghang smiles and says, "You sound just like your Master Sarn, young Jedi." He also adds, "And, like I told that worthy, we will wait and see how that justice comes out." To Freyja he says, "We want Khoud dead. How he gets that way is unimportant. He must not be able to continue to take such actions as he has proven himself willing and able to do."

Zero bows politely as best he can while sitting, with open hands. "I appreciate your compliment, Lord Ghang. I only wish to see due process before the law. I appreciate that you are willing to wait for this, thank you."

Freyja looks faintly relieved again at Ghang's reply to Zero -- then tightens up again as she realizes she misunderstood. She's silent for a moment, considering, then says softly, "I crave your patience, honored lord -- I would like to be sure I understand clearly the Sith position. We have here Balin Khoud -- a very sick man. Do I understand the Sith position is the dangerous sick should be simply disposed of?" Very, very carefully she adds, "Does this include Sith lords suffering from blight wounds?"

Lord Ghang says, "When their sickness is able and proven to be willing to destroy thousands of lives to make a point, that risk is not acceptable to the chance they can be 'cured.' If a Sith were in danger of becoming the unspeakable evil of a revenant, their own staff would probably kill them to prevent it. We understand the Jedi are too weak to do these needed things, so we are prepared to do it for them."

Zero folds his hands carefully on the table, Provocation is a technique for your counsel, not for ours, Honored Lord. Mental calmness is the sign of the matured Knight.

Freyja says with careful expressionlessness, "And yet Qatto Verg's staff did not do so. I wonder why?" She adds thoughtfully, "In fact, there were several Fallen Jedi in that group... who are now turned again to the Light." She smiles politely, spreading her hands in a gesture which could be perceived as including Fhazil and Vakkal, "Isn't it fortunate hope springs eternal in the Jedi?"

Lord Ghang shrugs and says, "Perhaps they were unable to. Perhaps they merely failed in their duties. They were invariably punished for it, probably by their own master. Most likely, he was separated from them or had fled them. One reason to have many Soulguards is to make sure one cannot kill them all before they can kill you."

Freyja raises an eyebrow at Ghang... then looks pointedly at Vakkal, then back at Ghang. Her tone is mild, "Do the Sith invariably have such a... harsh response to perceived failure?" She hesitates... then remembers Ghang's always encouraged her to speak clearly. Over the link she warns her friends, I'm going to say something which may provoke a huge reaction -- be prepared to dodge and link fast, please? She shifts her weight slightly, then says quietly, "And if so... why didn't you kill Fhazil and Vakkal?"

Lord Ghang looks flabbergasted. He says, "What? Why would I have done that?"

Freyja doesn't relax yet, although her demeanor is still utterly calm, "Fhazil was part of Sith lord Methel-ssa's staff; Vakkal was Verg's. Verg turned into a revenant and possessed Methel-ssa. From your own words," she pauses, carefully making sure her quote is correct, "you said: 'If a Sith were in danger of becoming the unspeakable evil of a revenant, their own staff would probably kill them to prevent it.'" Politely she adds, "And yet here they both are... fortunately alive."

Freyja gestures to indicate Vakkal and Fhazil... with her left hand. Her right is hidden in her lap. Zero sits very, very still.

Ghang listens, and thinks about this. Finally he says, "I understand now how you reached your conclusion. I have confused the issue; I was speaking of their Soulguards when I said 'their staff,' not of anyone who had ever worked with them. I can see now how I was not clear. If it were any staff member involved, we'd have to butcher half the administrators in the Empire whenever a revenant arose. It is not the general staff's responsibility to prevent it; only the Soulguard has that burden." He adds, "Thank you for asking, rather than remaining confused."

Freyja studies the Sith lord for a long moment, very carefully... then sighs softly, relaxing. Another deep breath or two, and she nods politely, "You are quite welcome, Sith lord Ghang. To be honest, we should thank you... were it not for your constant encouragement to clarity and brevity, I would not have asked." She pauses a moment, then grins wryly, "And hai, I am relieved to hear that... and I imagine many standard level Sith are also."

Ghang says, "It is one of the reasons I am here rather than some other Lords, and I find it always worth the effort."

Zero says, "Indeed worth it. Your understanding is most appreciated, Lord Ghang."

Freyja smiles more genuinely, "I also, honored lord." She pauses, then adds, "Where were we... ah, hai." She thinks a moment, then says quietly, "Honored Sith lord Ghang, if Khoud can be turned back to the Light, we would count that a great victory. At that point he would aid us in attempting to restore justice... but I know I, at the very least, would not ask for his death as recompense for the innocent dead... nor could I, in good conscience, stand by and do nothing were someone to attempt to kill him for justice' sake." She watches the Sith lord carefully for his reaction.

Zero says, "You have said, Lord Ghang, that you would wait for Republic justice. Can we take that in good faith?"

Lord Ghang says, "As I said, we are aware the Jedi are unable to handle certain issues, and we will cover that weakness for you ourselves." He says this lightly, without anger or unhappiness -- it's apparently just how Jedi are. He looks at Zero and says, "You may."

Freyja smiles, and doesn't bother trying to correct the misapprehension. Instead she simply says politely, "Is there aught else we may aid you with, Sith lord?" Freyja thinks it would be impolitic to point out to the Sith she'd be just as willing to use Battle Influence against them to aid a re-Light-turned Khoud... as against a Fallen Khoud. She merely murmurs amusedly, How polite of him to tell us he'll wait and only try to kill Khoud after we don't.

Zero says, "There is, if I may, one more question I have for the honored Lord?"

Lord Ghang smiles slyly, "Perhaps you should know that many Lords are flexible. Yes, we want Khoud dead. Yes, we're willing to wait for Republic justice. If that means he lives out his life in exile someplace he can't hurt anyone... that's fine with me. We can wait the fifty years. He will have served his sentence with Republic justice, and we can have the body and be satisfied. Only if he becomes a menace would we see a need to intercede. Please don't think, because I have an iron and inarguable mandate from those above me, there is no room for flexibility."

The Sith Lord adds, "Please, Padawan Zero."

Zero says, "Actually, I believe the Honored Lord has already answered it."

The Lord smiles again, "I am pleased to see we understand each other again."

Freyja goes utterly, expressionlessly still for a moment, considering Ghang's words slowly and carefully. Finally she nods slowly. Ghang is apparently being quite nice. She's impressed. Zero says, "It has been our pleasure to find communication with the Lord and his Empire so open."

Freyja looks thoughtfully at the Sith lord, then asks quietly, "How long do the Sith species usually live? Is the-" she pauses, then simply falls silent. If the Sith lords are willing to wait for (probably no more than) one hundred years for Khoud's death... who is she to stop that?

Ghang chuckles, and says, "No one Lord is waiting, Padawan. The Moot is waiting, and it will outlive us all. When you think in the time frame of an Empire, this is nothing. Particularly in that it will be dragged out slowly in requests and responses across the bureaucracy of dozens of worlds."

Freyja nods quietly, keenly aware her actual question was not answered... but not terribly worried about it. Zero strokes his chin absently. Ghang is a Lord of War. But he has the tongue of a statesman. I do wonder what sort of opponent a Lord of State might make in such a situation.

Freyja whispers, I don't. From what I've heard, we'd be expecting nothing but lies, daggers in the back, and poison. Bleah.

Zero replies, Perhaps. Though I wonder if they have any as quick-witted and smooth-voiced as our Honored Lord here. He is more formidable than he lets on. I must admit I admire his skill.

Freyja reviews mentally. They've not really said that much about what precisely occurred yesterday, but then a) they don't really know, and b) while she'd like to be totally aboveboard and open with this so-far quite pleasant Sith lord, she'd be a fool to do so -- at least based on the advice of the Sith she knows.

Freyja sighs quietly, wondering what it must be like to always be on edge like this against war and attack. Despite Ghang's assurances, she knows it's not just the same in the Republic Council. She sighs quietly again, then says politely, "We should not waste the honorable lord's time. Is there anything else we might do to be of assistance?"

Freyja admits quietly to her friends, It's funny... every time I think maybe we have something, anything in common with the Sith lords, so we might perhaps build some trust... something happens, and I remember... I might like or admire them -- but I should never trust them. A little wistfully she adds, It must be exhausting for them. I wish it didn't have to be that way...

Zero concedes that point. True. Though I must admit I at times wish I could acquire that skill -- to say so much and give away so little. It is impressive, if... tiring to struggle against.

Lord Ghang says, "I think your assistance yesterday was undeniably important, and we will be making sure the Jedi Order knows exactly how valuable you have been. If you have any questions or confusion during the upcoming discussions, please don't hesitate to ask me, during the conference or in private."

Freyja smiles ruefully at Zero's comment, even as she also looks at the Sith lord, "You are too kind, Sith lord... but I suspect the questions I would most like to ask you could not -- or would not -- be able to answer."

Lord Ghang chuckles, and replies, "This does not mean the discussion of the question would not be interesting or valuable, Padawan Freyja." He smiles at them all as he says, "If you have no more questions for me, I will let you go. I suspect Master Sarn and his staff are itching to speak with you as well."

Freyja's rueful smile gets, if anything, more rueful, but she's too polite to blurt out all the myriad questions she has. Instead she simply nods politely. Zero rises then, and bows politely to Ghang and his entourage. "We appreciate your understanding and your time, Lord Ghang; thank you very much."

Ghang stands and opens the door for them, his aide meeting them outside and escorting them to the lift. The look on his face is thoughtful and difficult to read as they leave.

Freyja wonders idly what Ghang was thinking... but once they've left the aide behind she pulls out her medkit and starts working concentratedly on it. She's curious now -- how long do Sith individuals live? She murmurs almost absently, "So... did that not go too awfully, d'you think?"

Zero takes a breath, tucking a stray bit of hair behind his ear as the doors hiss closed behind them. "Well. That was... diplomatic." He folds his hands. "I was clearly born to be a scholar and not a man of laws."

Freyja grins ruefully sideways at Zero, from beneath her bangs, "Now you know why I've gleefully fled to the Order too!" She giggles softly as she goes back to working on the medkit.

Fhazil comes out of his quietness to say, "No, Freyja, it went very well. Lord Ghang was in a remarkably good mood considering his ship was attacked." He looks at the floor, a little embarrassed, and says, "I'm sorry if I got kind of quiet back there. I never know what I can or should say around Lord Ghang any more."

Freyja looks up at Fhazil in puzzled concern, "What? Fhaziza? Is something wrong, sweetheart?"

Fhazil shrugs and says, "Not really. I just have a little bit of conflict of loyalties with Lord Ghang, and it's easier to be quiet than to say something dumb and irritate everyone."

Freyja studies Fhazil thoughtfully for a moment as they walk along... then she smiles, reaching up to touch his cheek gently, "I bet he understands, love."

Fhazil says, "I think so too, but I just usually get quiet. If there were something I thought you should know, I'd let you know, but y'all were doing fine." Vakkal makes no comment.

Freyja says quietly to Fhazil, "Don't worry about it, sweetheart. We believe in you."

Zero curls an arm around Fhazil's waist and leans against him gently. "It is a tiring place to be for all of us."

Freyja nods in agreement with Zero, then continues teasing information out of her medkit. Finally she says, "Well! Listen to this, guys. Sith biologically live to be about one hundred years old. Force users can extend that to about 150, like Humans... maybe 175 to 180 if they use some ugly Sith life prolongation technique." She considers the information for a moment, then adds, "I wonder how old that poor Sith lord that's nothing more than a head is." Her tone is slightly revolted as she adds, "He must've been truly desperately terrified of death to do that..."

Fhazil smiles and hugs Zero back one-armedly as they walk. He also adds, "I don't know if that Lord particularly wants to be alive any more. I couldn't say."

Freyja says dryly, "Well, if he doesn't care to be alive any more, surely his will would waver and he could finally die?" Curiously she adds, "Won't anyone help the poor man, if that's what he truly wants?"

Fhazil says, "Not if he owes them something, they won't."

Zero says, "Never give your head to a moneylender. A lesson for the wise."

Freyja winces again, walking along quietly. Almost automatically she notifies Sarn's aides of their imminent arrival, if Sarn is receiving. Upon receiving confirmation, she clicks off the comm, then continues walking silently for a bit, thinking furiously. Finally she gives a silent mental hug to all her friends -- it is as much reassurance for her as comfort to them -- then says very softly, "I'm sorry to say this... but I hope we don't ever have to work closely for any length of time with the average Sith lord. They sound like they have all the manners and morals of spoiled children."

Sarn is working at the conference table filled with paper stacks. He is not fondling them with the verve he was before, and is moving slowly. When the younger people come in he brightens, "Hello! Come in, come in. Please sit. Can I get you anything?" and makes sure everyone has seats.

Freyja smiles at the tired Jedi, "Hai, you can let us order you some food." Unless he objects, she suits her actions to her words, ordering some revitalizing drinks as well.

Zero settles at one side of the table, "You work like a man obsessed, Master Sarn."

Sarn smiles, "I've eaten, really!" but does not object. He sits down, showing his age and moving slowly. He answers Zero by saying, "I don't feel I have a choice, Zero. This is too important." He idly begins to gather his paper stacks, "I don't know what I would do without help from excellent people like yourselves and Manishsha."

Zero smiles gently. "You flatter us, Master. Please, what can we do to help you?"

Freyja will, as she moves to a chair, take a moment to gently hug Fhazil, then rub her cheek quietly against Vakkal's, then move to sit next to Zero, one hand lightly trailing along his shoulder as she does so. She doesn't have good words for what she's feeling... but despite possibly upset Masters and Lords, despite incipient war or peace... these are the people she cares most about, and she wants to do her best to be sure they're happy, even if they're also worried.

Vakkal and Fhazil both return Freyja's affection warmly, and easily. Fhazil looks more alert here than he did before, and Vakkal is standing much more at ease. Whatever was bothering him at Ghang's conference is gone.

Zero turns when he feels something on his arm, and smiles softly when he sees Freyja's face, as if seeing it for the first time today. He reaches to her and gently squeezes her hand, his eyes betraying his lingering fatigue from yesterday, but still bright with affection for his lover and partner.

Freyja sighs quietly, leaning against Zero for a moment... then straightens, so they can concentrate on Sarn now. She's already sorting her thoughts to answer the expected, 'what happened yesterday?!' Zero leans close, and gently kisses Freyja's cheek when she is close enough. Freyja mms quietly, her ice blue eyes warming. Funny how the smallest things can help you face the universe better.

Master Sarn watches this interplay, as subtle as it is, and may not recognize all the deeper meanings, but he knows young people in love when he sees them. He smiles, "You can help me most by helping me tell the Jedi Council a version of what happened that you are comfortable and happy with. That's the only really unanswerable question I have left at this hour."

Freyja tilts her head curiously at the Jedi Master, "You... want our input on what to tell the Jedi Council?" She grins -- the irony of that statement appeals to her -- then says politely, "I would suggest the truth, of course, honored Master Sarn. Er... just how you'd like to spin that truth, if at all, I..." she pauses, thinking, then laughs softly, "Oh, dear! I admit, Master Sarn, I don't envy you this!"

Zero straightens a little and brushes back his hair a bit. "We simply employed skills that any Jedi has knowledge of, using illusion and subtle manipulation of emotion to misdirect Khoud, and turn his fury on himself. That is, after all, the essence of Jedi teaching, is it not?" He diplomatically does not verbalize the fact 'any Jedi' generally doesn't effect these measures from the other side of a planet.

Freyja brightens, "Oh, nicely put, Zero!"

Zero smiles, "Thank you, Freyja."

Master Sarn says, "I won't lie to the Jedi Council, Padawan. But I don't have to write the report in a way that will all but demand they insist on an inquiry with you all on Coruscant. You helped enough yesterday -- it may be the three of you were all that prevented horrible tragedy -- that I have no problem trying not to mention something you'd rather not have mentioned."

Freyja spreads her hands apologetically, "Master Sarn, I admit I'm not well versed in the, ah... intricacies of the Jedi Council. I've not even faced them for my Knighthood tests, so I don't really know what will upset them and what won't."

The older Jedi also says, "And... while that's nicely glib, Zero, I can't say it's true. I've never seen any other Jedi do what you did, nor have I seen them use Dark energy willingly given by a Sith. I can't imagine that anyone really needs that detail yet... but I haven't got a way not to mention that at this point."

Freyja's smile at Fhazil is a touch proud. He really did aid tremendously at that second, she thinks happily to herself.

Fhazil looks embarrassed and says, "Whoops. You noticed that?" Sarn laughs and replies, "It's nothing like any Jedi does, Fhazil. And if what we've gathered is true, it may have saved lives and made Khoud's capture possible. Manishsha recognized Battle Influence when he felt it, and his report said Khoud couldn't hit the top of a pond from underwater."

Freyja stifles (poorly) a snicker at that assessment! Then she says thoughtfully, "Well... was it at all like a manus? Perhaps that descriptive would appease the Council somewhat?"

The Master says, "Unless you want to leave for Coruscant right now, I think we should leave the manuses out of it. The Temple's got enough stirred up right now as it is."

Zero says, "I wouldn't go so far as to call it falsehood, Master. We used the Force in ways that are well known to Sith and Jedi alike. We simply have found a way to do so that taps the Force in a manner that Light and Dark have been afraid to attempt, for fear of losing themselves to the 'other side' in so doing." Freyja considers silently for a while as the others talk.

Sarn says, "Again, I'm not sure that's not an untruth. Even if it isn't, I suspect the Council will want you there now and under their thumb where you can't do anything they don't want. Not only does that sound unpleasant to you, we need you here."

Zero says, "What, then, would you suggest that we tell them, Master Sarn? The truth seems to be an unpopular option."

Freyja finally says slowly, "Master Sarn... my upbringing has been such that I rather strongly believe secrets are bad. Therefore... I don't really know what to suggest to you for your report, except for either the unadulterated truth... or a polite refusal to comment, as you're still incompletely informed on what precisely occurred."

Freyja grins, her eyes gleaming with a touch of mischief as she adds almost teasingly, "Wouldn't it be ironic if what you needed to learn, in order to make a full report... had to do with the information covered by the Seal on Marnaas?" She adds cheerfully, "Surely the Council wouldn't insist we return instantly to Coruscant... if the Sith lord Ghang himself said he wanted us present during negotiations?"

Sarn laughs bitterly and says, "I've probably already gotten myself into trouble over that. They got back to me on my request about that last night, while I was here on comm, trying to figure out how many people were dead and how many were just injured, and to see if we could get power routed to the thousands of people who were in the dark and the cold last night. I was not at my best, and was not in the mood to deal with petty bureaucrats. The Council actually contacted me directly and told me they could not release that Seal, and I had no reason to know those things, and demanded to know how I even knew of it." Sarn looks tired as he adds, "That's when I lost my temper."

Zero says, "I see."

Freyja blinks... then her hetaerae training kicks in. As she rises, she says quietly, "What did you say, Master Sarn?" She paces quietly to stand behind him and, unless he stops her, she starts a slow, relaxing shoulder massage.

The Master looks somewhat surprised at the attention but does not object. He says a little more calmly, "I told them they didn't know what they were talking about, and their refusal was going to cause delay and damage here, and I wasn't going to put up with it any more. When they looked shocked and were about to chastise me, I said, 'I'll just go and ask the Sith! They're not under any damned Seal!' and disconnected the call."

Freyja laughs softly, quietly amused. Her voice is gentle, "Good for you." She continues giving the massage... she is, in fact, being as wonderfully, thoroughly relaxing as she knows how -- she's practically spreading it like an aura around her.

Zero smiles a bit. "Well. Technically that is true."

Fhazil said, "No technically about it. Lord Ghang would tell you just to irritate them, I suspect, had he heard that."

Freyja whispers quietly over the link, If I can persuade him to fall asleep here, as he so much needs, I think we should call Watcher Manishsha to watch over him, and quietly leave, hai?

Sarn is relaxing at Freyja's touch. He murmurs, "This is very nice." He doesn't say much for a moment, gathering his thoughts. He then continues, "Ah, well, it gets worse. You see, they called right back to berate me for ignoring the Council, and telling me nothing was more important than honoring their procedures." He sighs, "I told them I was busy trying to figure out how many civilian casualties we had in a little incident and if they'd actually killed Balin Khoud yet -- and if they hadn't, if there was any way I could help them to do so. Then I hung up and stopped answering the calls."

Freyja smiles again, "Hai... bureaucracy is like that. We had a similar influx of responses one after the other when we reported the apparently first official incidents of Republic droids being co-opted and used by the Sith." Her tone gets almost as relaxedly dreamy as her massaging hands as she adds slowly, "Perhaps you should consider asking Watcher Manishsha to aid you more in this? He could field all the officious Council calls, and you could get your work done more easily?"

Zero smiles a little, I suppose we should at that. It will do no one any good if the man has a breakdown in the middle of his work. He says softly, "You needn't concern yourself, Master. For now you are doing all that you can, and the work of the Order, even if the Council is mired in their own prerogatives. Please remember that we are here to help you deal with this..." He goes on in this vein a bit, his voice low and purring, going on in a gentle almost-monotone, as if he were speaking a tone-poem lullaby.

Master Sarn yawns, and looks startled at this, then replies, "Oh, they did contact Manishsha. He told me they insisted on contacting him and having a full report while he was chasing a hostile Fallen Jedi through a burning, toxic power station. He sent me the call log. I had no idea the little Jedi could curse so fluently in so many languages."

Freyja flashes a grateful smile at Zero for helping, then concentrates on focusing relaxation and rest through her slender golden hands, as they massage the wearily tense Jedi. She giggles quietly at Sarn's comment, but doesn't let her focus slip. Sleep... sleep would be so nice just now, wouldn't it?

At that Master Sarn says, "I must do this one more thing before I sleep." He puts his hands flat on the desk and exhales, concentrating. When he inhales, a little eddy in the Force can be felt, and he sits up a little straighter. He says, "Thank you, Padawan. Relaxing always makes this easier. If I can just finish this one task, then I am done and they can do what they will to me."

Zero says, "If we can help in this one thing, we will be happy to do so, Master." Freyja raises an eyebrow -- rather a fatalistic attitude there, surely? -- but simply nods in agreement with Zero, forgetting the Jedi Master can't see that. She doesn't cease her quiet, gentle, relaxing massage, though.

Sarn picks up his datapad -- not paper, showing the number of times he's edited this -- and says, "What I have so far is this, 'Balin Khoud has apparently Fallen, and decided to destroy the Sith battleship belonging to the negotiation team. All the Jedi in the negotiation worked together to try and counter this threat, bringing both technology and the Force to bear in their concerted attempt to prevent what could have been the end of any chance at peace.'

"'By working as a team, even getting support from some of the Sith in the room, the Jedi managed to confuse Balin Khoud and put him at a disadvantage for long enough for his plans to be thwarted, and for him to be eventually captured. Great stress brought out great works from all of us, and the results, while not perfect, were far better than they could have been.

"'Padawans Zero and Freyja, as well as their companions, are to be commended for their quick thinking and the youthful vigor with which they worked. Their efforts, along with support from Watcher Manishsha and I, were enough to confuse Khoud until Jedi forces could arrive on the scene.'" Sarn adds, "There's a lot more about the fight on the ground there, which is from Manishsha's report."

Freyja tilts her head, considering as she works her golden hands strongly and gently along the back of Sarn's neck, "That sounds rather nice, actually." She looks up at her friends, her voice still calmly dreamy sounding, "Do you agree?"

Zero nods, "I think that sounds just fine."

Freyja adds in quiet cheer, "And it's all true, too!"

Fhazil says, "I don't know that you need to mention our involvement, sir." Sarn counters by saying, "If I don't, and they find out, they'll think I'm hiding something. I just want them not to notice it. It has to be there, hidden in plain sight."

Freyja nods, "Makes sense." Zero also nods. Freyja says, "And by not letting his aides interfere, even Sith lord Ghang aided, really."

Sarn says, "If we can talk later, I would very much like to hear your version of yesterday." Freyja's massage has almost worked, the Jedi tired-looking and slow as he works at the datapad, "But first, I must sleep. And then eat. And maybe sleep some more." He looks somewhat embarrassed at being so run down, adding, "Forgive me, please. I was not expecting to miss the third night's sleep in a row." He smiles wryly, but tiredly.

Freyja smiles, "We'd be happy to talk to you later, Jedi Master. For now... would you like us to call Watcher Manishsha to see you to your room?"

The Master chuckles, "Manishsha is still in the southern hemisphere. Sleeping now too, I hope. He gets to cope with keeping Khoud contained, and with the local aftermath." He adds, "If you don't stop that I'm going to fall asleep right here -- which would bother the maid droids." He stands, adding, "I think I can find my room myself, though. And I think that's what needs to happen now."

Zero smiles, "No one can work ceaselessly -- not even those of us blessed in the Force. One so driven should take the time to marshal his strength; we all know your formidable skill in these matters, and every warrior is strongest when he is rested." He smiles, "Warriors of paper and ink included."

Freyja grins, stepping out of the Jedi Master's way, "Rest well, Master Sarn. We can talk later, when you feel up to it." She adds dryly to her friends, Poor Manishsha! I don't envy him having to deal with a mad Fallen.

Zero replies, Perhaps not, but I think the little one is more than able to handle himself... his Force is strong, too.

Sarn makes it to the door, then stops, looking back at the four in the room, "Thank you, by the way, for doing what you did. And for trying to make sure an old man doesn't work too hard. And for all the things you've done that were right. There are people who appreciate it, and think they are right." He looks out down the hall, then back again, and says, "I hope you can remember that if there are people who do not think well of it. Good night, all." So saying, he walks away -- slowly, tiredly, but finished with his task.

Freyja smiles and walks Master Sarn to the door, bowing politely in response to his comments, "You are too kind, Master." She closes the door behind him, turning back to her friends. Hai, the Kushiban does appear strong. I just find Fallen Jedi painful and tragic to be around... and none of the ones I was around were trying to slaughter a million innocents. She sighs quietly, adding verbally, "He really did need sleep. He looked like he was past tired, and well into hurting himself. Er... Master Sarn, I mean."

Zero smiles a little, sitting on the edge of the table. "You know, I do not do what I do for thanks. But hearing it makes things nevertheless just a bit easier to take."

Freyja tilts her head, considering Zero's comment... then nods, "Hai. I quite agree."

Zero says, "The poor man will work himself to death one day at that rate." He smiles, "So... shall we avail ourselves of some of this free time? Perhaps you can teach me how to do that..."

Vakkal says, "Did you hear what he said? He's been up for four days. I don't know many who'd push that hard out of a sense of responsibility for others." Fhazil comments, "I usually respect the ones who will." Vakkal nods.

Freyja nods to her two Sith friends, "As do I... but losing them to self-destruction isn't a good idea, I think." She paces quietly over to give Zero a gentle hug, and smiles peacefully, "Hai. Let's go relax some together, shall we? Neh currently demanding emergencies is rare enough... we might as well take advantage of the little free time we have."

Fhazil leers cheerfully, "Here I was wondering what else she could do..." and Vakkal pokes him.

Freyja laughs at Fhazil's comment, waving a remonstrating finger at him, "Careful, you!"

Zero says, "There are those within the Jedi ranks who do embody what is great in the Light and in the Republic. We must make a point to encourage and help them when we find them." He stands, stretching, then curls an arm around Freyja's waist. "Come on, then. Let's all go before we get ourselves into any more trouble today."

Vakkal shakes his head, "You haven't been around Fhazil long enough to know that doesn't seem possible."

Zero grins. "Well. Some stripes of trouble aren't so bad."

Freyja nods in quiet agreement with Zero's words, loosely looping an arm about him as well, then grins lazily, spreading open an arm for the other two to join them. "Let's go be uncareful in private then, hai?"

Zero says, "Capital idea."

Fhazil says, "Hey! I'm a reformed character now," and tries to glare indignantly at Vakkal -- who knows better, and sticks his tongue out at Fhazil.

Freyja giggles softly at Vakkal, cheerfully adding, "Don't stick that out unless you intend to use it!"

Vakkal's ears pinken, but he grins slyly anyway and says, "If you insist."

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Last modified: 2002-Jul-16 16:14:54

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