These Shattered Stars -- Logs

In short order before lunch, Freyja's 'borrowed' a personal secretary from her mother and arranged for an appointment sometime soon with Kalatis. She also asks for a few pieces of the distraction droids which attacked the Council to be brought to the manse, for her to try farseeing on. She arranges to make a call to Dantooine the next day, so Watcher Manishsha can be present also if he wants.

She already has a room scheduled for her arguing Jedi friends to have tea in tomorrow, and she includes a request for the Eclipse to be loaded with food, power supplies, and medical supplies for the kurasai on Dantooine. She hustles a bit as well so she can get Ghang's sword safely tucked into the ship, and still give herself time enough to tidy up for lunch.

Luncheon that day is relatively informal but of moderate size. The family is all there, including the paramours and huskarls as well as their invited Jedi guests. Dorn has continued to smile at and charm Freyja's parents, and the others have been polite and well mannered. The first of a series of light courses is served, and talk settles slowly around it.

Fafnir arrives at the last minute, coming straight from Council and looking slightly harried. Some of the schoolboy softness and joy is gone from him, but has been replaced with a firm yet somehow appropriate steadiness. He does smile happily and say, "Lady Freyja, it is so good to see you. I am sorry I was not on hand when you landed."

Freyja smiles warmly, "Lord Fafnir, it's a pleasure to see you. Please don't apologize -- it's reassuring to know you were handling Council." She grins a little ruefully, adding, "Quite brave of you... so how is it? Any chance of the rogue Hausa volunteering to answer questions before Jedi, to clear their honor?" She idly scans the young man's front, wondering if he's wearing a particular necklace or not. She grins internally, remembering her mother teasing her about it.

Zero sits up a little, rolling his shoulders. Quietly, and solely to Fhazil, he murmurs, So... what think you?

Fafnir sighs and deflates a little, "Not that I can see. They're resisting it. Several Hausa are refusing to attend Council if Jedi are present, claiming insult from the Jedi Council and demanding apologies." He adds, "Naturally we have a counter to this, but it takes time and arguing." He is indeed wearing the necklace, although it is barely visible among his clothing.

Fhazil returns, just to Zero, Well, they haven't eaten him alive... that's a very good start... I think he's smitten by Freyja, though. After a pause he adds, Not that I can blame him!

Freyja smiles, quietly pleased Fafnir kept the little stone she gave him two years ago. "Why not make a point of it, then? Invite Jedi and take the lead in denouncing whomever sent the distracting droids -- then state clearly Haus Rigg had nothing to do with that?" Dryly she adds, "For that matter, you could even add something about Haus Rigg having nothing to fear from Jedi, and it's a pity the accused Hausa must flee them... then gently inquire as to how they intend to attend Council if they must always check ahead of time as to who is present?"

Freyja's father chimes in, asking, "Have I told you what this brilliant young man does to stop the others cold? It's been a wonderful, completely unexpected, and inarguable tactic at Council."

Freyja smiles at her father, using it to hide the small internal pang she gets from Leif's words. If the rogue Hausa are turning the other, weaker Hausa against the Jedi, she can guess how welcome she will be there -- Arving lady or neh. "What's that, Father?" She's quietly relieved to hear her father's accolades to Leif. She'd worried for him -- a gentle academic thrown in head first into both Council ruthlessness and her father's sometimes thoughtless sniping.

Zero replies to Fhazil, I've been thinking. Do you think we might arrange for them to have some time to themselves while we're here? To be honest, I'm baffled by the marriage concept here; I can hardly tell if it amounts to anything more than a financial contract, but... well, I think you may've said it best.

Leif looks a bit unused to the praise, saying, "Oh, it's nothing..." and is overruled by Forsetti, who says, "Someone will make some demand or statement or offer, and your hus-bond will simply snort disdainfully and say, 'Oh, like when Clan Marrisson so kindly helped their neighbor Haus? I think not.' When someone says, 'What are you babbling about?' he'll then remind them of some time deep in the past where a very similar situation led to obviously bad ends. No one has managed to find a comeback to it, and they've stopped asking for details."

Freyja laughs delightedly, then grins at Fafnir, her eyes bright with amusement, "Well, good for you!"

Fafnir says, "Well... if they'd have read the Council record... er... all of it... they might know these things too..." and looks even more self-conscious.

Zero says, "Proud men tend to remember only that which is pleasing to them. The sage has a clearer recollection; or so it has been written."

Freyja grins, "Their loss, hai?" She tilts her head, observing Fafnir thoughtfully. True, he looks steadier... but from this reaction perhaps it's not all apples and cream still. She'll have to ask around and see if anyone knows something she can do to help support him. She knows her little giftings are still intermittently arriving, and will for another two or so years... but maybe something new might help Fafnir?

Fafnir says, "Well... that's more along the lines of what I studied. I am pleased it comes in so handy." Erde comments, "We've heard other Hausa are trying to find historians of their own now, so they can refute his facts with other facts. None has brought them to Council yet."

Freyja grins, "There, you see how useful truth is?" She looks at Fafnir, adding more soberly, "If I can help at all, do please do let me know how, all right? Either with my suggestion or otherwise, if there's anything we can do, we'd like to assist."

Fafnir nods, "I'm sure we will. I don't know that your attending Council, particularly if items of any sensitivity were being discussed, would be beneficial at this time." Forsetti gets a nasty-spirited grin and adds, "True, but it might be fun to watch. Like they could throw out an Arving Lady."

Freyja sighs internally. It really hurts to find her beloved home planet is stooping to such nonsense. She takes a deep breath, then says with determined cheer, "That reminds me! Did you and Father start a grandchild yet, Mother?"

Fafnir sighs as if this is an old argument, and replies to Forsetti, "I suspect it wouldn't make them uncomfortable. I see them leaving in a self-righteous huff, and throwing the blame on Haus Rigg for being too pushy, for upsetting the nature and flow of the Council by bringing the Jedi into the family, and for starting their motions again to have us expelled or to have at least Freyja expelled."

Freyja blinks, deeply shocked, "Your pardon?! What was that about expulsion?!"

Zero pauses. "Oh, really."

Forsetti waves a hand dismissively and says, "Oh, it was brought up, but never seriously. It was quite an insult, and we told them so, and they apologized in Council." Leif adds, "It's good your father was there, Lady Freyja. That's one time I'd have lost my temper and done something we'd have all regretted. I have to wonder if that's why they didn't do it."

Freyja goes quiet and still for a long moment. Finally she says slowly, "Syffie... what was it your consort said to you at the party, please?"

Syf says, "Oh, you saw that? How embarrassing. I didn't realize there was a vid on. I was so angry. The little weasel asked what I would do when I was Arving Lady. That's not when I slapped him, though. I was merely indignant and murmured, 'What ever do you mean?' or some such. Neh, I slapped him when he said he'd heard you'd gone off to some Sith world and speculation was you were never coming back, or only as some kind of monster." She sighs, and adds, "That's when I slapped him."

Freyja sighs, wearily rubbing her forehead, "Oh, Hela take it all... all right, when's the soonest we can arrange my being someplace where I can formally challenge the appropriate people? This can't be allowed to continue. They're using me to insult the Haus, and it's up to me to stop this disgraceful trend dead in its tracks."

Freyja tiredly adds, "I was so hoping for some peace and quiet here. Ah, well... the Force has its reasons, I guess." She takes a deep breath and straightens, then says more firmly, "Mother, can you have the Chatelaine inform me later of whom I should challenge in the three rogue Hausa, please?"

Zero sighs faintly and shakes his head. I wonder when they will grow tired of using the Jedi argument and turn to more visceral means of disparagement. I have, unfortunately, he adds with some dry amusement, heard the words 'yellow' and 'slope-eyed' in nearly sixteen languages already.

Freyja sounds mentally curious, What's wrong with the word yellow, sweetheart? Is this something like bastard -- a culturally relevant insult? She adds unhappily, In one way, they already have gone to more visceral, with the distraction attack on the Council with the little droids.

Zero is faintly amused about it, really, explaining, My skin, love. It's a very primitive racial slur.

Syf looks mildly shocked, then says, "Oh. I hadn't thought of that." Leif says, "I'm not sure that's a good idea, Freyja. A statement of offense might be fine, to let them know they're going too far... but if you challenge them... and win... it will only make it harder to calm things down here."

Freyja's father says, "Tosh, boy! It would be grand! Freyja would chop them to bits, however they decided to challenge!" He sits up, bright-eyed, and says, "The Haus would be able to stop this quarrelling by simply declaring it over."

Freyja gives Fafnir a sternly formal look, "Calm things down? Good my lord, I seek to challenge them to face a Jedi openly and honestly with me." Then she gives her father an amused glance, "Father, that would hardly be fair. The goal isn't to destroy dissent, but to expose truth." She grins mentally at Zero, and he gets a gently teasing sensory memory involving the extremely pleasant feel and taste of his skin to his female lover.

Fhazil asks quietly, "Pardon me for not knowing, but who is giving them the ideas to do this? Is this usually how they act, or could they be getting quiet guidance from someone else, offering 'help' to them? This tactic sounds familiar to me."

Zero sits up very straight for a moment, clears his throat, and has a drink. Freyja giggles mentally, then nods to Fhazil, "It's my assumption there's a Sith agitator here somewhere. I'm hoping to flush them out with the Jedi."

Leif, Forsetti, Erde, and Syf look horrified, and Forsetti says, "The Sith, here? Never!" Vakkal resists the urge to say anything.

Freyja blinks, sitting up suddenly straight and looking inspired, then glancing at Master Roakkana, "Hey! Has anyone scanned the planet carefully for Force -- oh, drat! Neh, that's not necessarily going to work -- agitators don't have to be Darkside Force users." She frowns, slumping slightly and absently brushing the end of her Padawan's braid against her lips -- and she also politely says nothing about that assumption by her family.

Zero brushes back his hair absently. "Agitators... or sympathizers. I wonder."

Freyja smiles suddenly, then says gently, "Father... Lord Ghang, our honored guest, was a Sith."

Fhazil says, "Er, no, they wouldn't be. In fact, they specifically might not be. Why waste a Force user on this work, when anyone can be trained to do it?"

Freyja nods a touch glumly to Fhazil, "The problem is finding them, of course. A Force user can find a Force user, unless they're deliberately hiding... but how do you find someone who's just this person, you know?"

Alleine, who has been trying to hide behind his soup bowl for this conversation, looks at Freyja, then at her father. He says nothing, and Roakkana keeps an eye on him. Forsetti, looking at Vakkal, says, "Well, were we to have Sith here as guests, we'd do our best to make sure they were treated as guests." He looks at the others, adding, "We know too many Jedi to be taken by their tricks, anyway."

Freyja sighs, "Well, I think the war effort is the best chip to play here -- those who fear facing Jedi are Sith sympathizers -- that sort of thing. Otherwise the rogue Hausa will continue dissembling, and should the Sith fleet truly arrive in hostility..." she frowns and adds grimly, "they'll find we've done their work for them." Almost irritatedly she adds, "The very shame of it all!"

Leif says, "Ah, the war. Everyone's mostly convinced there will be no war. The Sith have what they want. They've gone off to peace talks. The idea that we could be attacked is not treated seriously at the moment."

Freyja sighs again, taking a sip of her wine, then adds frustratedly, "Darn it all! We bust our tails to get the Sith to talk peace, because it's what the people want -- and now they won't even talk to us, let alone thank us!" She drums her slender golden fingers on the table, then says grumpily, "Well, fooie. This means I'm going to have to turn up publicly to show I'm not a monster, too." She sighs again, then says hopefully to her mother, "Could we at least pick something with dancing?" She adds warningly, "We only have a week -- two at most. Then we've got to be off for Dantooine again, for Master Sarn."

Erde laughs, then says, "Perhaps we can even arrange some riding, too. We'll think about it. It's not a bad idea." She asks, "Are you up to helping out, Syf?" Her younger daughter says, "Of course, Mother."

Freyja brightens, "Oh, riding in some public event wouldn't be too bad... I could always dodge the media on a slaypneer...?"

Forsetti says, "If you're thinking what I think you're thinking, Magnussen will have a fit. That much vid in, that many guests will make security impossible." Erde pats his knee and says, "Leave him to me, mmm?"

Freyja giggles in spite of herself at her parents' interaction, then adds more cheerfully, "So, you never said -- is there an heir on the way? Can I see?"

A quiet servant enters and approaches Freyja, saying, "Excuse me, Lady Freyja, but you have a high-priority message marked private. We can get it to you in your rooms, or at Security, or here if you'd rather." She carries a portable comm.

Freyja adds with wicked amusement, "Wouldn't it be funny if the rogue Hausa got caught on vid, or 'accidentally' near a Jedi, at some public function, mmm?" Then she looks up curiously, "I do?" She bows politely from the waist to everyone, "Will you please excuse me a moment?" then rises and follows the servant out of the room to take the call. She amusedly hopes it's not the farseeing Jedi of Ossus -- if they tell her something as unintelligibly cryptic as, "RUN!" she's going to ask them what office they suggest she run for!

At the Security office Magnussen holds sway. He says, "'Tis a strange call, lass. I dinna ken what it means." He hands her a comm-unit and moves back a bit, leaving she and Vakkal to look at it. Vakkal asks, Should I let you have privacy?

Freyja smiles, "Thank you, Magnussen," as she accepts the comm unit. She sets up her datapad to record, shakes her head to Vakkal, Neh, just stay out of view, please? and answers the call. "Heiyo, who is this, please?"

The call is encoded, apparently a recording. Without the key it cannot be decoded. The message was also sent to Watcher Manishsha. Freyja studies it curiously, Interesting. The call was sent to me and Watcher Manishsha, but it needs a key. I'm guessing it's from Master Sarn. Anyone have any idea what the key is?

Fhazil replies, Not I. Vakkal shakes his head and adds, No idea. He didn't give me anything like that.

Zero hms. Redcloak, Valsha, Diana... He appears to be going over a list of potential keywords in his head. Freyja checks to make sure the message won't be corrupted if the wrong key is tried. If not, she'll try words as Zero and she think of them.

Freyja reviews her datapad, wondering if she's just forgotten a conversation she'd recorded previously... but nothing conclusive comes up. She sighs, then tries all the words Zero suggests as well as a few of her own: prey, Thomas Redcloak, Shadow Devil, key, Light, Calefactor, triat, soulguard, Marnaas, and heresy, as well as Valsha and Diana.

None of those words unlock the encryption. The message remains an unreadable mass of data. Freyja sighs and steps to the board to put a secure call through to Watcher Manishsha. Zero hms. Let me have a go at it later, dear. I can work on it with my tools if Manishsha has no thoughts.

Freyja nods, Thank you, sweetheart. It's good to have backup.

The call goes through, and the Watcher comes quickly to the comm, as if he were already nearby. He says, "Hello, Padawan Freyja. I suspect you're calling about the message from Sarn?"

Freyja says, "Hai." She shakes her head a little worriedly, "Please tell me you're not stumped too?"

Manishsha says, "No, I have the pass code. I had to try about thirty of them to get the right one, but I do have it... is this a secure line?"

Freyja nods, "Hai, it's a personal line out of the manse. Moment..." She checks visually to be sure the sensors say the line's secure, then nods to the little Kushiban, "Go ahead, please?"

The Kushiban says, "Sarn and I worked out a large number of pass phrases. The phrase used gives additional data as to what the message means. Meanings like 'This was made under duress and should be ignored' or 'Do the opposite of what I ask' or 'Send Help Now.' The phrase he used to encode this means, 'Take this message seriously, as it is delivered.'"

Zero thinks wryly, Well, that beats the alternatives. Freyja nods again, making a mental note to ask Sarn to please better inform them next time.

Manishsha then gives Freyja a series of letters, apparently random, although he has no problem producing them -- he apparently has a mnemonic. He adds, "And don't let anyone who doesn't need to see this see it. I doubt there is any issue with any Jedi, but others I would worry about. I'll let you go watch it now. Perhaps we can discuss it tomorrow."

Freyja nods, "All right, and thank you." She says goodbye to Manishsha, then codes in the required letters and watches the message curiously.

The message is from Sarn. He looks disheveled and as if he's been in a fight, "Things have gone badly here. Fan seems insane to me, although Lord Ghang says otherwise. Ghang is hurt, and Methel-ssa dead. Ghang is fleeing Fan's wrath, to where I do not know. Ghang has given me a ship and told me to get to Balmorra, to safety. I have several refugees with me as well, who Ghang wants to know will be safe. I will see you as soon as we can get there. May the Force be with you." The message ends.

Freyja's horror transmits over the link, and she murmurs softly, "Oh... my... goddess..."

Zero sets his glass down on the table, and silently regards the settling water. He folds his arms, hiding his hands in his sleeves, and frowns, eyes narrowed. "Interesting times," he murmurs. "Jie ba..."

Vakkal, watching, stares, "Methel-ssa..." He sends over the link, I'm sorry, Fhazil. Magnussen, watching, says, "Ye all right, Lady Freyja? I gather this is not so good news?"

Freyja rubs her forehead tiredly once the message is over. The others feel her weary realization -- Methel-ssa knew freeing them was her death. Miserably she wonders if that makes them at least partially responsible for the poor woman's death.

Fhazil sends, quietly, She knew she was in a dangerous position. She may have been hoping Ghang could protect her. I can't say. He tries not to look disturbed, lest others in the room think something is going on.

Zero glances up from the table to look at the ceiling, pondering quietly. We must do something. If Methel-ssa did indeed let us escape knowing she would face death in doing so... it has become a matter of personal honor for us now.

Freyja looks up at Magnussen, straightening her shoulders. Her voice is quiet and steady, "I fear the news is not good, neh. Please prepare for a ship from Dantooine in about three weeks, with Master Sarn and some refugees on it. And..." she pauses, considering, then adds quietly, "and I must inform my parents of this also." She leaves quietly, wondering if there may be a Sith battleship turning up as well... and if it will be friend or foe. She nods quietly to Zero's mental comment, Hai, I would have to agree.

Magnussen says, "We'll see to it," with a glance to Vakkal, who waves him off. Magnussen listens to Vakkal on this and lets them go, slightly concerned. He logs the request for attention for a few weeks from now.

Zero fingers the edge of his thick braid. There will be killing before this is ended.

Freyja enters the luncheon room again, settling quietly into her place. She sends a silent message to Magnussen to be extremely discreet as to whom knows about the incoming ship, then settles and waits. She needs to talk to her parents and Fafnir when the others aren't present. Luncheon continues, with Syf trying to ask Dorn and the other Jedi what they've been doing. Dorn has been amusing them with innocent enough tales from Coruscant, and talking about some of the sillier things that have happened in the Jedi Temple.

Freyja wonders to her friends where Ghang might flee to. She'd have guessed Balmorra, were it not for Ghang sending Sarn on without him. She's guessing the 'refugees' are some Khar Velosi... she hopes so, at least. It looks like the peace talks are dead. The thought saddens her quite a bit. She'd had such hopes.

Fhazil smiles and listens to the harmless stories Dorn tells, while thinking deeper thoughts. He sends, Depends on where he feels most secure. Khar Velos, perhaps. He knows he'll be well received there. Perhaps Ziost, to get help from the Dark Lord himself. I wonder how he'll get there, with Malice damaged, and who'll wind up with it.

Vakkal adds, Aye, he'll send Khar Velosi here, if he can. If he's not sure of who'll be in charge of the world, he'll try and get some to freedom. I think he'd trust you to see they got it. It's not clear how he feels about this.

Freyja looks up at her parents during a lull in the conversation, and asks in pleasantly normal tones, "Father, didn't you say something about wishing we could develop a better drive engine, so it didn't take so long between planets? Did you take that into development?" She glances at her mother, with whom she discussed having Khar Velosi turn up and work here, and adds artlessly, "or would that take too many new engineers?" To her friends she murmurs quietly, Where's the closest place he can get repairs and be relatively assured of safety? Here? or Ziost, or someplace else?

Vakkal replies, Depends on what he wants. If it's Malice, there are a few places... but if he's trying to protect Khar Velos, that's where he'll go.

Her father says, "Of course we'd like that! It'd be hotter than a hundred cred laser. But we haven't the staff right now, and those who know those things are hard to come by." Her mother says, more aware of what her daughter is saying, "We'd welcome any chance we could to make something like that happen, of course."

Freyja smiles, "Well, if you get a chance to make it happen, I know I, for one, would be thrilled. Taking so long between planets is such a drag sometimes." She looks at her mother again, her smile not reaching her eyes, "Three weeks," then looks back at her father again, "Three whole weeks from Dantooine. Thank goodness we had practices, you know?"

Freyja nods mentally, All right, so his first concern will be keeping Khar Velos safe -- not repairing the Malice? If so we won't be seeing him here. She sighs quietly, then adds a touch morosely, Well, if this doesn't make the Council see sense, and draw the foolish fake Red General to us... nothing will.

Fhazil sends, I don't think Lord Ghang would come here if he weren't sure of his backing, his support in the Moot, and his welcome, and all of those may be in question. Vakkal adds, I wonder what happened... I wish Master Sarn had been able to say more!

Freyja murmurs unhappily, We'll know way too much... in three weeks. She wonders what ship Master Sarn was given... then her interest flares suddenly to life. If it's a good Sith ship... maybe there's a chance it has one of those invisibility drives on it! Her eyes narrow slightly in thought -- that'd be a very clever way to pay ahead of time for repairs done on the Malice. She nods slowly -- three weeks from now a great many questions will be answered, indeed.

Syf, perceptive and with long experience in reading Freyja, says, "You look pensive, sister. Bad news on the comm?"

Freyja smiles quietly at her sister, "Not the best, I fear. Still, there is one good outcome -- there is neh longer any rush for us to return to Dantooine." She grins a bit, "You can arrange all the parties you like, eh?" She thinks amusedly, If that doesn't terrify all present, they just don't know Syffie yet!

Syf's eyes narrow and she says, "You've never smiled about that before. What's happening? Is everyone all right?"

Freyja laughs aloud! -then grins more cheerfully at her sister, "Guilty as charged, Syffie, and I bow to your perception." Her grin gets a bit wicked as she adds, "I was just wondering how all the others here," her graceful gesture includes Alleine, Master Roakkana, and the former Templars, as well as the family and the triat, "would take that news!" She adds a bit wistfully, "It would be nice to have a chance to go dancing and riding a bit, too... before things get... busy again."

Most of the others look slightly confused. Master Roakkana says, "I believe I will take that as the warning it was intended as. Perhaps I can beg off some of them due to advanced age." This brings out smiles from most in the room, who know him to be nearly indefatigable, despite his age.

Freyja also giggles in spite of herself. Zero is silent, but that's no great change in character for him. He is thinking, making plans, and backup plans. And plans for when the backup fails. His normally quiet mind ripples. He remembers himself and glances up to smile gently when appropriate to the humor going around, but the others know his distraction.

Erde says, "Well, I was pondering earlier hosting an all Haus slaypneer gymkhana. You and your sister would host it, and welcome all the guests. Much of that time would be spent mounted. I'm sure between the two of my lovely daughters, the vidiots would be out in force, and it would be hard to complain about such a traditional Balmorran event."

Freyja laughs again, in spite of her mood. Then she grins, tilting her head to curiously ask, "Are there any in the rogue Hausa who ride?"

Leif says, "A good idea to cling to tradition. If you're feeling particularly tolerant of the vids, perhaps even a hunt. I'm sure everyone involved would enjoy it, too."

Freyja rolls her eyes, "Oh, Lady bless... it's been years since I've been on a hunt!" She grins mischievously, adding, "It'd keep the worst of the vidiots away, though. Hunting gullenburstis is nothing to sneeze at!"

Erde simply smiles, and Freyja's father says, "At least two of the three Hausa keep slaypneers, so they must ride; that's no secret. The third I don't recall. Several of the other smaller Hausa who are being so skittish definitely ride." Erde adds, "Even for those who don't, it's quite a spectacle and they would be welcomed, fed, and entertained."

Fhazil mutters, "So, we don't get to hunt the vidiots and blame the gullenburstis?"

Freyja nods, her mood improving a bit despite the horrible message. "It... would be nice to have a lovely wild ride, hai..." She grins at Fhazil, "Only in our dreams, my dear!"

Syf beams, "Oh, that would be fun!" She looks over at Alleine and says, "Perhaps you and I could sing for them? I'm sure everyone would like that, and they'll never have heard anything like your folk songs." Alleine looks horribly embarrassed, murmuring, "Perhaps that's not the best idea..." but it's clear Syf ignores him.

Freyja grins with some sympathy at Alleine, as he starts to realize just what letting Syf arrange parties means! She will be charming and graceful for the remainder of lunch. However, the others on the link can feel her gentle request they stay after the others leave... and Vakkal quietly passes on to the appropriate huskarls Freyja's request for her parents and Fafnir to wait a bit also.

Syf turns to her mother and says, "A three or a five day event?" Her mother replies calmly, "Oh, I think the full five days. If we're going to do it, let's do it right, mmm? And then we can have the traditional dances on the plain after the Hunt and the competition." Forsetti grins, "It's been years since I've danced those dances with you..."

Freyja brightens, "Ooh, a traditional event, with dances and all?" She looks much happier at that prospect, and cheerfully says to the former Templars, "Please do say you'll stay, hai? A nice relaxing party would be good for all of us, don't you think?"

She wonders thoughtfully what Leif thinks of all this. They didn't get to have the traditional hafla at the wedding, after all. She has neh idea how he feels about dancing, really. She grins ruefully to herself, making a mental note not to accidentally overwhelm the poor guy with her enthusiasm!

Dorn says, "Well, I believe we have the time." He looks to the others, who nod, while Jedi Avarras asks, "Can you explain what dances you're talking about? I am not sure I understand."

The lunch winds its way through the courses, mostly in reasonable spirits, and people eventually take their leave. Syf goes off with Alleine and the five visiting Jedi, still trying to explain the courses of the events and the different dances from the different days to them. Alleine looks stunned, Dorn smiles happily and seems to understand, and the other four are struggling to keep up with the Diamond's effervescence.

Freyja grins with quiet affection, watching her sister leave. She's glad the former Templars are smart enough not to say anything about the Massassi in front of her parents. Still, having Master Roakkana's endorsement counts for a lot -- and Alleine has that.

Erde asks, once there is a more private, family group, "You needed our attention, Freyja?"

Freyja looks back at her parents and Fafnir and sighs quietly once the doors close. "Hai, I fear so, honored Mother." The honorific shows how deeply concerned she is, and she continues formally, "I am constrained by honor from revealing all at the present, but we have not received good news. I would like to request we extend Host protection to an incoming ship from Dantooine which will arrive in three weeks or so." She's silent a moment, then says unhappily, knowing her family will understand, "There will be refugees... and Master Sarn on it."

Forsetti says, "If they will behave well, we can do this. I don't know why we'd turn away refugees from Dantooine, if they wanted to stay here. I'm sure we can find someplace for them." Fafnir nods, "We can always use help on the moon, if nothing else."

Erde asks, "Did Master Sarn appear all right? Is there anything else we should know?"

Freyja quietly wonders if there's any hope of Methel-ssa not being quite dead, and Sarn having only had her death reported to him, instead of seeing the death. She hesitates, then says quietly, "I... am not clear. These are refugees from the Malice, honored family... not the planet." She adds, "He appeared to have been in battle, Mother. Aside from that, I must defer to Watcher Manishsha's desire to hold on the information until we know more... in three weeks." She waits for her family to put two and two together -- and get the result of the peace talks failing.

This causes a little more concern. Erde says, "Oh... my." and Forsetti finally asks, "Sith refugees?" He is asking quietly and intently, not at all irrationally.

Zero adds quietly, "Of the faction which sought cease-fire." It is a small but important distinction.

It is Leif who says, after Zero's words, "You said you do not have to hurry back... this means the peace talks have failed?"

Zero says, "It would appear so. And that they have fallen against each other in its wake."

Freyja nods to her father, "Hai, honored father. However, I have spoken previously to the Sith lord Ghang, and I believe they will be refugees who desire to start a new life here." She nods at Zero's words, then adds, "And they will wish to start anew with a new clan and a new lord and lady." She winces slightly at having it put quite so bluntly, then unhappily admits, "I... I wish I could say neh, Leif, but... I'm afraid they may well have. This is why we want to keep this very tightly controlled until we have more information in three weeks. We don't want to spread misinformation, however well-meaning... but you all need to know of the incoming ship."

This produces a stunned silence. Leif finally says, "Much as we have fallen against ourselves in their wake. I understand. We must resolve this rent of our own people quickly, so we can handle whatever occurs."

Freyja says quietly, "Exactly." Then she adds dryly, "This does mean I would like to know if there's an heir started up already, also. We may soon be at war again." She's relieved Leif grasped the true issue quickly.

Erde smiles, "We took care of that detail shortly after you left. Things go well. I understand now why you ask, though."

Freyja nods, "Excellent. Thank you, Mother. I'd like to see it at some point, when we're not quite so rushed."

Erde says, "It's not very exciting at this time, but we can arrange that." Freyja chuckles quietly at her mother's comment. Two to three month old fetuses are rarely a delight to look at, she knows. Still, it's a reassurance to know things progress.

Zero nods. "I hope in my private thoughts that this somehow represents a strategic advantage; that truce-seeking Sith could somehow be allied, however tenuously, with the Republic against the conquest-seeking Sith, but... this is all mere speculation for now. I can tell you this, though: there will be Sith who are viewing the situation here with similar thoughts."

Freyja nods to Zero, "Hai, it is a hope for me also. Still, even if the Malice is headed this way it will take three months for her to limp in."

Zero says, "Provided she does so."

Freyja nods to Zero, "Hai, there's neh assurance of that either. We'll know more in three weeks."

Freyja's father says, "Of these refugees... do we know who they are and how many they are? What provision will we need for them?"

Freyja shakes her head at her father, "Honored father, I apologize but I simply do not know, and won't until the ship arrives. However, it is my speculation from previous conversations with the Sith lord Ghang that the refugees will be friends of Master Sarn and of Vakkal's species."

Forsetti says, "That is both good and bad. Good, because Vakkal is a valued member of the Haus, and more of his kind will probably be equally valued. It could be bad because that is more and more recognizable as Sith... but we will cope with that." Erde nods, "Hai. We will. They will simply have to be at the events, for people to realize they are not fearsome."

Freyja grins tiredly at her mother, "Fearsome... they are as fearsome as any dedicated and loyal individual." Determinedly she adds, "We'll just have to make sure people realize they're like everyone else, that's all." She absently runs a hand along Vakkal's thick ruff. She can't imagine being afraid of a Khar Velosi... but then again, the triat is in a unique position regarding Khar Velosi.

Then she shakes her head again in quiet unhappiness, "Only three days on the planet, and Fan blew up already! He must have been planning it the whole time he waited for them to arrive." She adds worriedly, "I wish I knew more..." She's really concerned -- what does 'hurt' mean to a Sith lord? Is Ghang dying, or just scratched? How are all the people on the Malice? She blinks, looking up at Master Roakkana, "Hey... I just had a thought. How well do you know Master Sarn, Master Roakkana? Could you farsee to him for more information?"

The Wookiee says thoughtfully, "Perhaps the Watcher would be in a better position to do so, but I could try. Perhaps I will later, or I will contact the Watcher and ask him if he had planned on it."

Zero is for his part not so sure. To assault others on a mere vicious whim seems perfectly in character for an average Sith Lord to him. But he reflects on the writing that the violent man's ruthlessness is truly just slavery to his emotions; and that the sage slays the violent man with true ruthlessness.

Freyja nods silently at Zero's thought, and he can feel her quiet agreement, repeating back one of his Sedraki authors to him, If the enemy general is obstinate and prone to anger, insult and enrage him, so that he will be irritated and confused, and without a plan will recklessly advance against you.

Zero nods softly. You have been studying.

Freyja's smile at Zero is bright with warmth and affection, Just listening to you, lovely.

Zero hms? He glances up, questioningly, then smiles a little, sighs at himself and nods. I'm sure I've been going on in that vein since the war started... but I'm flattered you pay attention to my rambling, lover.

Freyja lightly rests a hand on Zero's, curled relaxedly in his lap, You don't ramble, sweetheart, you give good advice. She pauses a moment, remembering, then adds softly, You really live it, too. "Nothing is better than to protract things and keep him at a distance. When he is united, divide him, disrupt his alliances. Do not allow your enemies to get together. Treat captives well, and care for them. This is called 'winning a battle and becoming stronger.'"

Freyja looks up at her parents, still smiling even though her tone is a touch worried, "Well... this is what we have so far. I hope we may find out more if Watcher Manishsha can farsee Jedi Master Sarn... and if not, we'll certainly know more in three weeks." She adds quietly, "I thought you should know."

Zero smiles a bit and squeezes Freyja's hand. I will try to live up to your opinion of me, Freyja. Thank you.

Both of Freyja's parents take it seriously, and Fafnir says, "It was a good thought. We will do our best to make them welcome." Her father nods agreement.

Freyja says, "Thank you." She smiles and ruefully shakes her head, wondering when poor Lord Ghang will get a chance to have his sword returned to him... then wondering a bit more unhappily if that lack contributed to his being harmed by Fan. She very much hopes not.

Freyja spends some time after lunch with her paramours and Master Roakkana, catching him up on all that's occurred since they were last here. She also asks how Alleine is doing -- well, she hopes?

The old Wookiee smiles, "I think he alternates between abstracted wonder and sheer terror. Once he believes he won't be killed on sight, and that he won't be conscripted in to some sort of anti-Sith army, I suspect he'll relax quite a bit. He has discussed what he would like to do in the future. He seems to wish he were not a Sith Force user, the poor boy."

Freyja smiles quietly, "Well, it was my thought he might enjoy a bit of time with Jedi Dhaasul. He Fell, and came back, and last I heard he was at one of the meditative monasteries."

Roakkana chuckles, "Ah, but I'd rather this one stayed Fallen. For that is what he is, in his own lights. He is having a very difficult time coming to terms with that. By being here, alive and docile, and listening to the people around him, he undoes many of the things he was taught."

Freyja looks puzzled, "You'd rather... oh! Well, I meant more along the lines of perhaps time meditating would allow him to come to terms with himself." She pauses, looking around, then says curiously, "Where's Jedi Diath? Is he not here any more?" She adds a bit more worriedly, "And... we should plan something for when the false Red General turns up. Not if. When."

Roakkana says, "I will warn you... I think your sister is more perceptive than she usually lets on. Perhaps you are not surprised by this."

Freyja nods unworriedly, "Hai. It's one of the reasons she's so hard to resist -- she can tell what people want, and they end up loving her."

The Wookiee says, "Ah, good, you know. She came up to me privately the day after Alleine arrived, and asked me if he was a Sith. I must say that I was quite startled."

Freyja grins, "All right, that is more perceptive than I expected! Did you ask why she asked?"

Roakkana nods, "It was the first thing that came to mind; I said, 'Why do you ask?' She told me she'd seen people like him on the HoloNet and they'd been Sith, and ordinarily he'd have been introduced as a Jedi or other official, but as he wasn't she had to wonder if he was hiding from other Sith or was renegade or something. She was quite serious and seemed fully aware of what she was talking about."

Freyja nods, "Excellent, then she won't foolishly expose him. I suspect she's found out by now Vakkal's species is Sith too. She does love charming things out of people."

Roakkana agrees, "I think there is little chance of that. I did tell her he was hiding from retribution of others who would object to his turning away from them, even if he didn't turn against them. She said he'd be safe here; that Freyja and her father would see to it." Freyja smiles, quietly touched by her sister's faith in her. She hopes she can live up to it. The Wookiee asks, "Did you know she watches all the news on the HoloNet? I think she knows everything that's going on anywhere; not just in the social circles."

Freyja says, "That doesn't surprise me, really. I watch it myself whenever I can, and she has been trying to help out the family more now she's stuck just in Balmorra Quadrant. Seriously, though, Master Roakkana, do you have any suggestions on how to handle the false Red General? Considering how the rogues acted, I'm not even sure we can be absolutely positive he won't harm innocents. And... what will happen to the rogues?"

Roakkana says, "I've been thinking about that... one more thing, before I forget. There has been some film of Khar Velosi on the HoloNet. I'm sure Syf saw it, and others will have too. It leaked from the hotel while the Khar Velosi had shore leave there. It was not, admittedly, very frightening film, despite what they tried to make of it."

Freyja grins, "Excellent. That was part of our goal in getting some shore leave for them."

Roakkana says, "Ah. Well, they tried to show hordes of dangerous Sith aliens, but the pictures of a bunch of large, furry types having a picnic were not very frightening. They seemed docile and happy enough. Do not be startled, though, if someone recognizes Vakkal's species or the new arrivals'."

Freyja nods, "Shan't be. It had to come out eventually." She giggles, adding, "Did any of us show up in the vids, playing with the dangerous aliens?"

Roakkana says, "Not the ones I saw, although there may be others." Fhazil snickers, "Poor Master Sarn would not be pleased to be the first Human shown with Khar Velosi. Not if they got pictures later in the trip."

Freyja laughs! Vakkal comments, "They might think she was hurting him." Fhazil counters, "No, he was smiling too much."

Freyja grins, adding sincerely, "Thank you, Master Roakkana, for helping out Master Sarn while he was confused by his feelings for Saleyn."

The Wookiee smiles and waves a hand dismissively, "I did nothing any other Jedi Master would not have done. I'm sure he's reached a good decision, whatever it is, and he'll do his best for them."

Freyja nods, "I know Saleyn and a few of her friends wanted to come here, and I think they thought Haus Rigg might be a good new clan to join. If that's still what they want, I'll gladly welcome them, and I suspect my parents and Leif will also."

Roakkana continues, "As to the Red General... I hope we can avoid a fight. That would be unpleasant. I'd rather get him to give himself up willingly. I wonder if we could get him to see what he's doing, if he had it shown to him by someone else?"

Freyja murmurs, "Hai, but how? It's not like we can talk Khoud into telling the boy to hand over the sword. Both he and the sword aren't right in the head."

Fhazil comments, "Ah, but what if a famous HoloNet star were to do it?"

Freyja glares amusedly at Fhazil, "Absolutely not! We couldn't possibly endanger innocent bystanders like that!" She pauses, then adds slowly, "If she did it on vid, though... that might work...?"

Zero says, "I suspect the blade will not give itself up so easily. However... if nothing else, it could be an opportunity to meet blade and bearer on ground of our choosing."

Fhazil says, "Never mind. It was just a thought. If this Red General is the right age he might be completely infatuated with her... and she would just have to show him what they wanted him to do was wrong. I'm not sure what you thought I meant... but I wouldn't want to put her in any danger, either."

Freyja nods to Zero, "That's an excellent idea -- to chose the battleground ourselves." Then she grins at Fhazil, "I think he's just a touch young for that."

Fhazil says, "I dunno... your sister can be pretty charming. She's almost as pretty as you, even."

Zero says, "I do have one other suggestion, though it doesn't involve Syf."

Freyja gives Fhazil an amused glance, then considers for a bit. Finally she says slowly, "Maybe... the moon? Neh, that's rather a fragile ecosystem. Perhaps... up north? There aren't many sapients up there, after all, due to it being a geri-cat reserve... or an island?" At Zero's words she gives him a curious look.

Roakkana says, "I don't think we have as much to worry about regarding innocents in general. We should worry about the same overly self-justifying self-righteousness that led the rogue manus to do what they did. They, I am confident, were sure they were only harming infidels who were knowingly assisting their Sith masters and therefore were targets. This Red General may feel the same about, say, Vakkal or Alleine... or any of you, or perhaps even me, but not about passers-by."

Zero says, "The thought has occurred to me a few times that this blade sees its mission as being to destroy other blades. Perhaps it will be receptive to a simple challenge among warriors. If it wishes to consume the Three, we are here, we will be waiting for them at this time -- either the Three or the One will live. The other will die with honor."

Freyja says unhappily, "I'm afraid that will entail the child dying, though, Zero. It's not his fault the sword's wielding him, you know?" Then she nods to Master Roakkana, "Hai, he hates Sith in general for what they did to Dantooine, we've heard -- even though he was a babe at the time, and probably can't even remember it clearly."

Zero nods, "I don't intend to kill the boy, of course. The Shadow Devil is the enemy I swore to the Silver Path that I would hunt. It's the blade that I intend to give an honorable death."

Freyja smiles at Zero, "Not alone. We'll be with you."

Zero says, "Whether it deserves one or not..." He adds, "I doubt very much that I could do it alone."

Fhazil says, "To prevent the deaths of innocents, do you think it would be fair to resort to subterfuge?"

Freyja gives Fhazil a curious look, "How do you mean?"

Fhazil shrugs, "I don't have details yet. But if we can lull him in to a sense of safety and then snatch the blade long enough for Zero to cut it in half... it's all over but the shouting at that point."

Freyja says slowly, "I would think it would require all three swords, from what we've heard so far. However, I do think separating the boy and the sword would be the healthiest alternative for poor Thomas."

Zero says, "Perhaps not their overt application, though."

Fhazil nods, "Okay, maybe it would take all three of us. But without the sword he's just a kid, right? If we could get him to go skinny dipping or have a nice hot shower with someone where we could get that blade... it would be a terrible lie and abuse of his trust, but it might save his life." He asks Roakkana, "Would that be a wrong thing for a Jedi to do, Master?" He knows the answer for Sith.

Freyja says frankly to Zero, "Don't know. But I don't want us to find out the hard way it does require all three, and have one of us missing for some reason." Then she gives a small snort of laughter at the image of the poor boy being allowed anything so normal as skinny-dipping -- by his Calefactor handlers!

Zero says, "Perhaps simply their aid as a focus for the Force... something we have done in the past against its bearers with good effect. It might only take one of us in the physical realm to sunder the weapon, with the aid of the other two in spirit."

Freyja grins, "You do realize you're talking about a five or six year old, Fhaziza, hai?" She giggles, then adds, "Maybe it's different where you originally came from, but usually kids wait until ten or eleven before they start sexual adventuring?" She nods quietly to Zero, "I hope it is that easy. I suspect we'd better not plan on that, though." She adds, "Also, you should keep in mind it may take the Dark Destroyer, rather than the Silver Defender, to actually strike and sunder it."

Fhazil says, "Hmm. For some reason I thought he was a little older than that. What impresses kids that age? Jedi Masters? Slaypneers? Toys?"

Freyja laughs! "Oh, Bright Lady, I don't know -- it's been a while for me! Maybe Syffie or Mother know?"

Zero says, "I wonder... if the blade itself might be assaulted in the same manner as we learned to combat the revenant spirits. To blast it with both Light and Dark, while I engaged it in the world of matter. Something like that... I suspect that the blade has made the boy a powerful fighter but I don't believe he can overpower one or more of us, whoever engages it."

Freyja nods to Zero, "That's my hope also, sweetheart."

Vakkal says, "Will this Thomas be the way a normal child would, or would he be possessed by the sword? It may have given him age and wisdom beyond his years. He would see through any trick that way."

Freyja says, "I'm guessing from our vision of it, it's taken over the boy. It's certainly had time to do so, unfortunately."

Zero says, "I am -- and it embarrasses me to say this with a mere child in mind -- very skilled in close-quarter fighting. Perhaps I can entangle him, restrain him, while one of you deal with the blade?"

Fhazil says, "I was just going to suggest we ask Master Roakkana to sit on him. He's just a kid, how can he stop a Wookiee? Your method might be better."

Freyja gives another small snort of laughter. Zero says, "I wouldn't wish to ask my Master's help in this... this is, after all, my Trial as far as the Silver Path is concerned."

Freyja nods, "I like Zero's plan -- one of us entangle him either physically or intellectually, and the others try to separate him from the blade."

Master Roakkana chuckles, "Undignified but effective. I do not know if I would get the chance, though. He will have 'assistants' and 'aides' who tell him what to do, and who will be good fighters on their own. And if the sword truly drives him, he may have more than enough power to throw even one as large as I aside."

Freyja adds quietly, "I suspect Master Roakkana would be more effective in distracting the assistants. If the needs of the Force hold true, the boy will be our concern alone."

Zero says, "Yes. I suspect that once it becomes obvious what is going to happen, a general melee will ensue. I suspect that the Master will be considered a target simply by virtue of his sheer power."

Freyja considers, then says, "So... we need to make sure Master Roakkana has support too." She considers, then repeats, "Jedi Diath? Is he still here, Master?"

Roakkana says, "There are many Jedi here. There is another Wookiee stationed here on Balmorra, Manishsha and Colburth are here, and Sarn is on the way. The five you brought with you are also each skilled Jedi. Numbers are likely on our side, if we can keep them from being frightened off."

Freyja nods thoughtfully, "All right. I take it that means Jedi Diath had to go?"

Roakkana says, "Last I heard he was still here, yes. Watcher Manishsha wanted to ask some questions of him."

Freyja nods, "All right, so there's plenty of back up for you, good."

The Wookiee nods, then adds, "Yes, we have rather been collecting Jedi here on Balmorra... it's as if there were something going on here." He adds dryly, "How fortuitous, mmm?"

Freyja grins, then adds, "Can we talk you into being present for the Jedi tea tomorrow? I'm hoping a nice tea will help Jedi Colburth forgive the former Templars for shooting him in the back to stop him." She adds thoughtfully, "And I'd like to talk to Kalatis, if we can. If anyone can finger who in the rogue Hausa are responsible, it'd be him."

Roakkana says, "I would be happy to attend and perhaps even mediate. I suspect, however, it will all work itself out now they are out of that difficult situation."

Freyja grins, "Hope so."

The Wookiee adds, "I'm not sure what's become of the former Senator. Ask the Watcher, or your parents."

Freyja nods, "I heard he was pretty shattered by being outcast... not that I can blame him."

Roakkana says, "Alleine was rather unhappy at that news and at Kalatis' reaction. He feels responsible."

Freyja looks puzzled, "Why?"

Roakkana shrugs, "Had he been successful, he would not have returned in disgrace. He would have not returned at all, perhaps, but he would not have gone through that pain and unhappiness."

Freyja says grimly, "Had he returned successful, Kalatis would have destroyed Balmorra."

Roakkana says, "Alleine is aware of this. I don't think it makes him happy, either. He is not a very happy man at all lately. This is a very difficult and dangerous time for him, even without a war brewing."

Freyja says, "Perhaps it is callous of me, but I prefer Balmorra in all its irascible glory and diversity, to the docile ant hill the Sith seem to be creating on Dantooine. I'm sorry Kalatis had some pain and unhappiness, but the cost would have been too high."

Fhazil nods in agreement. Zero says, "I cannot say I am happy that he has felt pain. Nor can I say I am unhappy. Whatever I may have felt at one time... is now severed with time and deception."

Roakkana says, "I see you understand. I think Alleine does too... and that he's beginning to understand. But he's having to realize much of what he believed before was terribly damaging, and having to figure out who he is and who he wants to be and how to get there from here. I'm talking to him every day. We'll see how he does."

Freyja nods and murmurs quietly, "Thank you, Master Roakkana. I think he deserves the time to learn who he is... and who he wants to be."

Zero says, "If I could be saved, my Master, then he can be saved. I know you will show him the Way."

The next morning comes, and much of the family -- Fafnir and Forsetti and Erde and their security -- goes off to take care of things. Syf and her security begin planning a complex series of parties, and she asks Alleine for his help. With Roakkana's approval he trepidatiously goes off to do so.

Freyja grins and gently reassures Alleine her sister is very well meaning. Alleine comments, "I'm sure she is... but I also find her somewhat overwhelming. She keeps wanting to talk to me."

Freyja looks curious, "You don't like talking?"

He says, "I never know what to say. Her innocent questions like, 'Where did you meet Freyja?' and 'Will you be staying on Balmorra long?' and 'Tell me about yourself?' are so very hard to answer. I can't imagine telling her the truth... and I don't want to lie to her. I'm not sure I could anyway."

Freyja smiles, "Ask her the same questions, then. She's happy to talk about herself and the holovids."

Alleine says, "Oh, gods, the holovids. I haven't seen any of them. She asked me how I grew up and hadn't seen any of them. I had no good answer."

Freyja grins, "You could gently suggest not all cultures are obsessed with the Balmorran Diamond. Or you could be truthful and tell her you can't say, would prefer not to lie to her, and would rather listen to her tell you about here."

The Massassi smiles, "She is very nice, and when not being intently curious about my past is no problem... but she's hard to defer and harder to answer." He looks confusedly at Freyja, and adds, "Do you think that would work?"

Freyja smiles, "I don't have any guarantees, but I do know she's not unfeeling, and if she knows you're acutely uncomfortable with her questions she's more likely to relent. Also... do you have a better suggestion? If so, do please try that one."

Alleine says, "I will give it a try. Thank you." So saying, he goes off to face the Dragon... er, the Diamond... er, Syf. Freyja grins.

Kalatis is still living with the Jedi. Without family or name he isn't welcome much of anywhere else, and no others are anxious to claim him. Piper flies them over in a transport big enough to collect the Jedi that are coming back to the manse for tea. Freyja is silent, watching through the windows and letting Piper do the talking. It's rather nice, actually... Piper is part of being home, even if home is all scrumbled up right now.

Vakkal waves goodbye to Fhazil and Zero as Piper whisks them off to run another errand. Freyja quietly enters the Jedi commandery and politely identifies herself, then mentions her appointment with Kalatis. The Padawan who meets them says, "A room has been set aside," and leads them there. It is a small meditation or practice room with comfortable cushions in it. The Padawan adds, "Kalatis will be along in a moment."

Freyja murmurs, "Thank you," and settles comfortably cross-legged to meditatively wait. Vakkal settles in a corner of the room, watching and waiting, patient and alert.

It is just a few moments before Kalatis arrives, being shown in by the Wookiee Jedi, who steps back and leaves the three in private. The Rodian blinks at Freyja, says, "Greetings," and bows uncertainly.

Freyja smiles and bows politely from the waist, then waves a graceful golden hand at the other cushions, "Greetings. Please, be comfortable?" She's not sure what to call the poor man, now he's outcast, but is quite sure 'outcast' is not appropriate.

The Rodian moves over and settles carefully, facing her. He says, "Padawan Arving Lady Freyja. I did not expect to see you. I... am somewhat at a loss for words."

Freyja tilts her head inquiringly, "Why so?"

The Rodian says, "I did not think you would want to see me, after my working so hard to avoid you. Nor do I know how to handle the unexpected and strong reaction I had upon arriving home."

Freyja says quietly, "Indeed. Perhaps it was the realization you'd have that reaction which brought me here... to see if I could be of assistance."

Kalatis says, "Assistance?" He looks confused.

Freyja says, "Hai. I knew you felt you were doing what you thought was right. To discover what is truly right, and to do it, is the mission of all good Jedi. But we are trained to understand the Force is subtle and often difficult to comprehend, and there will always be those of great intellect and equally great malice... and so even the best of intentions can be twisted. We know this, and that is why we have many safeguards to help each other." She's silent a moment, watching his large, sad eyes, then says softly, "I doubt you had such assistance before. Do you want it now?"

Kalatis says, "I'm not sure what I want now, to be honest. What you describe is basically 'wisdom,' isn't it? I'd have sworn I knew what that was. I'd be a fool to refuse your kindness."

Freyja smiles, "It has a lot of names. One of the wisest men I know is also one of my Teachers, and I return often to him to make sure I'm not wandering off path accidentally. Perhaps talking with him would be helpful to you also. Discovering who one is, and who one wants to be, can be a life-time process, after all."

The Rodian nods, "The Jedi here have been very kind, and have let me talk a great deal. I was not expecting their kindness, but it has been very good. I would be pleased to talk to your Teacher and to share in his wisdom." This sounds very subdued and different than the last time Freyja heard Kalatis talk.

Freyja says, "Thank you. I admit, I would feel better if you did so also." She considers him for a moment, then adds quietly, "Would it help you to talk about the people here who aided you in working with the Sith Oath of Fire?"

Kalatis says, "I knew I was working with Sith. I... I was sure that was the right thing to do. I'm not sure how I knew it, but I did. It's not nearly so clear now. I'm not sure what an 'oath of fire' is, though."

Freyja says quietly, "They're a radical sect within the Sith, who believe sincerely all Jedi must die. It's entirely possible one of the reasons you were so sure you were right is because they messed with your mind." She's silent a moment, then adds carefully, "It is up to you, of course, but you might consider asking Master Roakkana to make sure there's nothing unpleasant they left behind in your head?"

The Rodian looks horrified. He says, "They... they can do that?"

Freyja says honestly, "I've been told so, but I haven't seen it personally."

He shudders and says, "I thought it couldn't get any worse."

Freyja says gently, "You're on the path into the Light of knowing yourself. That can be painful, but it's never worse."

Kalatis asks, "Really? How can I trust what I'm thinking if they could be messing with my head?" He then stops, and asks, "Can Jedi do this?"

Freyja smiles quietly, her voice reassuring, "The better question is would a Jedi do this. The answer is neh."

The Rodian says simply, "Ah." He then asks, "Is there a reason you wanted to see me, Lady Freyja?"

Freyja says, "Hai. I wanted to know if I could help, and ask if you wanted to help me. You've answered the former with hai, and so I will ask Master Roakkana to come talk with you because he is the wisest man I know. You've not yet answered the latter." She adds sincerely, "I apologize for scaring you, but I thought it wisest to let you know the possible aftereffects of working with Oathers." She adds dryly, "I'm getting the impression you're not sure you want to talk to me much any more. If that's the case, I will not impose."

The former Senator says, "No, that's not it. I'm just not sure what it is you want to know."

Freyja says, "Oh, mea culpa. I would like to know who the people you worked with here were, but only if it will help you to give those names. That's why I asked if you thought it would help you to talk about them."

The Rodian considers for a long moment, then says, "I don't see what good it will do to share this. How will making others miserable and damaging more Hausa help anyone?"

Freyja says a touch grimly, "It will do a great deal of good to have the truth come out publicly -- because if we remain Hausa divided, when the Sith arrive with a fleet they won't even need to fight us."

The ex-Senator says, "I thought the war was off -- that they'd traded Khoud and I's heads for peace? Why is that a worry now?"

Freyja says quietly, "Your heads are not forfeit to the Sith. We were extremely careful about that."

With a wry smile the Rodian says, "I do appreciate that."

Freyja says, "But when it comes to Sith, assuming the war is over before a decade of mutually respectful peace has passed successfully... is premature. Unfortunately. The Sith lords are renown for their... unpredictable nature."

The Rodian hrms, then says, "Well, I'd hate to see Balmorra captured because we were too busy squabbling with each other to protect ourselves. If you think it will calm the Council then I can tell you what I knew."

Freyja nods politely, "I would greatly appreciate that." She adds equally politely, "May I record?" She takes a moment as she activates her datapad to also bring up the Force -- she wants to be sure she's recording truth. To the Force aware her eyes flare an icy silver blue as she watches the quiet Rodian. She pauses with her hand over the datapad, waiting for a response.

The Rodian says, "Sure, record it. Not like there's much worse they can do to me." A moment later he continues, "A lot of the orders came through Count Miz Thullalkhazan, who is now missing. I don't know who of his staff worked on it, but some must have. Dosen Military helped us build some custom weapons ships. I'm sure the Baron and several others of his staff knew the customer for those, and a number of his engineers must have wondered about the strange ships. We ordered some parts and ship's engines from Urnis Galactics, but I don't know if they knew who it was for or if it was just for a big special project at Dosen."

Freyja nods thoughtfully, recognizing the former Senator is telling the truth. She says quietly, "Thank you, s- er, thank you for your honesty. We'll do our best to bring the truth out to the Council, I assure you."

He says, "I don't envy you the task. It will be an unpleasant Council session."

Freyja murmurs dryly, "They already are." She takes a long, slow breath, then adds, "Aside from asking Master Roakkana to come talk with you, is there aught else I may do for you?"

The Rodian says, "The Jedi here are making sure I am comfortable, and giving me much to think about. Don't let the Sith take Balmorra. It's all I've got left."

Freyja says with quiet, almost emotionless sincerity, "The Sith lords will take Balmorra over my dead body."

The Rodian says quietly, "I believe you. I'm sorry if I helped it come to that... it seemed so clear and so right."

Freyja rises gracefully and bows, "Perhaps it is a failing in me, but I find myself more likely to forgive one who truly believes he is helping others... than one who simply wishes to make a fast cred." She sighs quietly, then adds politely, "You have been most kind, and I thank you on behalf of Balmorra as well as the Jedi and my haus. Please feel free to call upon me if I can aid you." After that she quietly withdraws with Vakkal.

The female Wookiee who resides at the commandery is waiting outside. She asks via her voder, "Is everything all right, Padawan?"

Freyja nods quietly, her gaze abstractedly thoughtful, "Hai. Thank you, Master. I have promised the Rodian I will ask my Master to come speak with him sometime. Is that acceptable?" She hesitates, then asks a bit diffidently, "Also... what name does he go by now, please?"

The Wookiee says, "Of course it will be no problem for Master Roakkana to come and visit. Our Rodian guest goes by his first name now, Akaro." Freyja nods and thanks the Wookiee, then quietly and thoughtfully departs with Vakkal.

Zero is meanwhile off to the city. He is looking for a craftsman; this is fortuitous, he being on a planet of craftsmen. Or craftsbeings. On his shoulder is a tightly-wrapped roll of cloth, tied off securely. He makes a bright contrast to the multiply-colorful people of Balmorra in his monochromatic sapphire robes; a slim silken ghost easing its way through the crowded street.

The crowds are moving along and Zero has no problem finding the address Piper gave him, and dropped him near. The shop he enters is a little different from those around, not being specialized in any one thing. If anything, it would be best described as a tailor's, but perhaps for things besides people. There are tents and machine covers and kites and sails and things on display and hung on the walls. The store is narrow, with deep shelves on the side walls and a square table taking up most of the center of the room.

Two people are working at it, both human, one older and directing the other -- obviously a master -- the other an assistant or apprentice. The master is a woman, her long, graying hair in a braid; and the younger is a bright and cheerful young man with short-cropped dark hair. They have a complex pattern laid out on the table, and the woman appears to be considering it and asking her junior pointed questions about it.

Zero enters quietly, and simply waits politely for their conversation to end before stepping forward. It is not long before he has their attention. The woman says, "Welcome to our humble shop, kuras. How may we help you?" while her assistant listens and works unobtrusively on a data pad.

Zero smiles and bows politely, carefully unshouldering his bundle into his hands. "I would like to request a thing from you. A bag -- something perhaps with a handle and a strap both; something that can protect items inside from rough handling and will hold up well to a traveler's lifestyle. It need not be elaborate, just sturdy. And it must hold these-"

The proprietress says, "Jo, clear off a space," and gestures Zero over, saying, "If you would come lay them here on the measuring table, so we may look at them." Her assistant has applied a pin or two and deftly folds the other project up out of harm's way. The table is marked off in square units, which should make measuring much simpler.

Zero unrolls the cloth. In it are carefully laid out: the shard-sword in its scabbard. A quartet of lightweight knives. A double bound staff, deactivated and folded at the moment. His vibroblade of Kaminoan make, broader but as light as the shard-blade. He adds, softly, "If extra pockets could be added... that would be a plus." He silently reminds himself to check the concealed-carry laws of planets he visits next time. He expects the local constabulary would have wanted a better explanation than window-shopping for his carrying around a small arsenal.

Both of the shop owners don't seem startled by this armory at all, although not familiar with the weapons. Both are careful not to touch them, knowing many are sensitive about that. The older woman asks, "So, a carrying case -- something more than a scabbard, less than a full case, hai?"

Zero explains, "I have only storage cases for my weapons, and I would like something I could carry without having to hold the scabbard or such in my off hand. And... it might help if I needn't appear to have a blade to hand at all times."

The woman says, "Hai, that is often a plus." She adds, "Jo, can you find the pictures of the case we did two months back? I think it was not so much weapons, but close to what we need." The young man says, "Hai." After a moment of work on the data pad he shows Zero a flat case made of some fabric with closures around the edges. This one is holding a long, narrow piece of sporting goods, but looks like it would hold several. Jo says, "There are several inner sections; each would hold things apart. Is this like what you had in mind?"

Zero ahhs, "Yes, that would be excellent. Would it be possible to line the pockets with something so to keep the blades protected?"

Jo says, "Yes, kuras, that should be no trouble." He points to the unusual shard-blade and asks, "Can you show me the grip on this and how it is drawn, so we can be sure to make it somewhat accessible? Lifting something out by its blade would be less than helpful."

Zero nods, "Certainly I can." He picks the weapon up and demonstrates several methods and angles by which it may be drawn, and explains that any of them will do. He is flexible; so long as the weapon clears without snags he will be happy.

Jo asks, "And is security important, kuras? For a small fee we can put in a power cell and sensors so the bag will only open for you. It would require a significant effort and damaging the bag to force it open otherwise. It will also add a little weight to the bottom."

Zero smiles a bit, "No, I do not think that will be necessary." He bows politely; his lightsaber still in his sash, "I think that if anyone has achieved access to my bag without my consent then I will be in no condition to use the weapons anyway. All I would change is perhaps to add one or two large external pockets? I have some small things; tools, and such, that would benefit from a useful place to ride.""

Jo says, "Not a problem at all, kuras. Any particular sizes, or just big useful pockets?" He looks at the older woman and says, "I am confident we can do this task. I believe it will take us two days." She nods, "I concur." She looks at Zero and asks, "Will two days be acceptable, or do you need this sooner?"

Zero smiles, "Just large useful pockets... that would be just right, aiyah. Two days would be perfectly acceptable."

The older woman smiles, "It will be our pleasure. Would you like to pick it up, or shall we send it to you?"

Zero says, "I would be more than happy to come back."

Jo says, "That will be very fine, kuras. What color would you like it in? Red? White? A bright and cheerful print? Or something more utilitarian, such as charcoal or black?"

Zero says, "Ah, something simple for me, please. Grey or dark blue would be fine. I am just a scholar, and my skills are humble. No need for ostentation."

The young man says, "A moment, please," and moves off to the heavy shelves. He comes back with four rolls of heavy fabric, two different grays and two different blues; one medium dark and the other very dark. He says, "Would you care to choose?"

Zero ahs, "Very good..." He gestures to the drawing, "Could we use this lighter grey-" He indicates the closures, "And these, the lighter blue?"

Jo says, "That would be neh difficulty."

Zero smiles, "I think that would be excellent. Of course, I had no doubt that I would find what I was looking for here. Balmorra's craft is well known even on my home."

The woman looks at Jo's notes, and considers, then says, "Your praise is always pleasing to hear, kuras. We still need to discuss the cost for this work. For our best work and finest materials, we will need to charge you two hundred credits. I would, of course, recommend this, but we can make accommodations if this is not acceptable."

Zero smiles a little again and says simply, "It is the place of a craftsman to know their tools, their uses, and their care. My place is with these," he gestures across the cloth at the weapons, "and they are my tools. Use your best tools, because these are mine."

The older woman smiles a pleased smile, "It is always a pleasure to do business with wise customers. Would you like us to embroider your Haus emblem on the bag for you?"

Zero smiles a bit and shakes his head. "No need." He gestures to the weapon that remains close in his sash. "This is all the identification that I require. My Haus is the galaxy. I could ask for nothing more."

The older woman says, "Very good. You may come back any time after this hour two days from now, and we will be pleased to have your work ready for you. I am confident that you will be pleased."

Zero smiles, "I have no doubt at all." He bows again, carefully rolls the bundle up again and ties it tightly. "I will see you, then, in two days. Good evening to you."

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

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