These Shattered Stars -- Logs

Much later, Freyja is comfortably curled up on her bed, considering what it is she'd like to research, hopefully without leaving a painfully obvious paper-trail...

What first. Well, Kalatis and Khoud worked together on cracking the Balmorran droid smuggling ring. She'd think that'd make them experts on that subject -- smuggling droids. Is there any possibility that perhaps that's why they wanted Marnaas cleaned up so quietly -- they're hiding a droid smuggling ring to the Sith there? Balmorran style war droids turned up suddenly after that in the hands of the Sith, after all. She ponders... then realizes this falls under the 'interesting theory, how do you go about proving/disproving it?' category.

Hm... detective work really isn't her specialty. Well, is there some way to discover if there's been any recent 'modifications' of the personal vehicles (space or otherwise) of Kalatis and/or Khoud? Alternatively, have either had sudden influxes of creds? She'd think they might prefer to trade tech for tech, and have the invisibility cloaks for their ships, but the Sith might not be willing to trade that to them -- it might just be creds they're paid in.

She rapidly realizes one problem with being paid in creds: the Sith Empire and the Republic have very different currencies, unlinked to each other. Creds are worthless in the Empire, and dukats are worthless in the Republic -- in fact, using them would probably get you arrested if they were flashed at the right -- or wrong -- person. Also, she'd need to use public records and/or call in favors and/or call in the services of a slicer to find out what ships, if any, these two own... not to mention their travel history for the past several years, what dry docks they pulled into, and what work was done on them, etc. Or she could try to sneak on board one of them with a high-level tech and see if any alterations have been made. She wonders if either Piper or Zero are good enough to tell -- then realizes resignedly this probably isn't possible unless she hires someone specialized.

Hm. Got to be other angles of attack... have the Senator or the Jedi Master recently moved a lot of stuff around? Creds, households, resources, whatever... information is beginning to trickle out, after all. The Templar manus holovid, the Balmorran war droid the Sith have, the Templars leaving the Temple, information on Valsha's ancestry... when stuff like that breaks out dramatically and publicly, it usually breaks like a tidal wave. Wise traitors are ready to drop everything and flee right before the flood breaking -- because they already prepared by moving everything they value to a safe location.

She sighs softly. This, again, would be information that is not readily available. She'd need a slicer, or information from someone on the inside, or gumshoe legwork asking questions, etc., to find out. However, she'd guess from the fact that Kalatis is Zero's former employer, that Kalatis is a careful, smart man. It's a good bet he long ago figured out that a wise man sometimes has to know when to leave his luggage on the dock, as they say.

Okay, so that's all a no-go. What about the recent background verification research on Khoud and Volc... like if Khoud went missing for a bit before he and all the other Jedi escaped Bandomeer, or if he's been behaving at all differently since then. She does a little searching and discovers, as far as whatever records are in the public domain, there is no indication that Khoud disappeared before escaping Bandomeer.

She sighs, then turns her attention to Volc in particular. Was he a 'too good to be true' Padawan, in the eyes of his new Jedi Master -- as in he had a meteoric rise because he'd already been taught that stuff by the Sith, since he was intended to be a mole? She also asks Vakkal, if he'll talk about it, if anyone actually saw the supposedly injured Ghang -- how does a small-time apprentice 'nearly kill' a powerful Sith lord?! She's curious too about the instructions Vakkal and Fhazil Taas got regarding tracking Volc down... is there anything there that might betray the truth of the matter -- as in perhaps Volc was supposed to escape successfully?

Volc's master is pretty forthright: Volc had quite a few things to unlearn, but he was almost rabid about the 'triumph of the Light.' He really didn't like Sith -- he means really didn't like them. That was one thing that Volc's master had to train out of him; hatred and anger is one thing if you're a Sith, but it has to be eliminated if you are a Jedi. They aren't proper motivations if you're going to fight for the Light.

As for how an apprentice can 'nearly kill' a lord, Vakkal has but two words, "Thermal detonator."

Vakkal explains Volc's dissatisfaction had been brewing for a while. Ghang's lessons about controlling anger seemed, to Volc, to be completely going against what it means to be a Sith. Apparently at some point Volc got it into his head that the Sith he was around were more than just run-of-the-mill, now-I've-got-you-my-pretty-nyeh-heh-heh, mustachio-twirling-evil-bad-guy Darksiders; the Lords of War had a damn good chance to win this war -- and what's more, might even have a chance of running a stable galactic government based on the rule of the Dark Lord. Volc didn't like that idea one bit.

Ghang, Vakkal, and Fhazil misinterpreted Volc's emotions, however; Vakkal notes that Volc was almost sullen and withdrawn; depressed. His decision to try to blow up Ghang's flagship from within using a thermal detonator seemed to be an almost spur-of-the-moment decision; otherwise, Ghang would have been sure to spot it beforehand. The blast took out a good portion of the living section hull, evacuating it into space, even as Volc was making for the hangar bay. Oh, Ghang caught seven types of hell for that from the warlords.

Ghang gave Fhazil and Vakkal their instructions from a bed in the Malice's sickbay. They were pretty straightforward: "Volc has fled. I do not know what his reasons are, nor do I know his intentions. Be my Eyes. Find Volc, question him, and convince him to return. If he does not... then be my Hands and kill him. I hope that it does not come to that. But ultimately we cannot allow Volc, with what he has learned, to fall into the hands of the Republic. These are your orders. Go, and hurry."

Such somewhat vague orders were not uncommon. Unless there were special instructions, Ghang preferred to leave the way a mission was pursued to the discretion of the people undertaking it, trusting they wouldn't do something incredibly stupid -- like blow up a planet.

Freyja shakes her head and sighs again, once she finishes that conversation, thinking that's a seriously good reason why Volc wasn't snagged up by the Order right away -- that propensity for excessive and pointless destruction. Unfortunately it looks like there was only one (moral) way for the Jedi to keep him under some sort of control, once he became a trained user of the Force: put him doing a job he does well, and stick him way out of the way. She imagines the Sith picked him up because there was a lot of anger in him, and better to turn that to their cause than against them as some kind of local guerilla.

She ponders... so Khoud apparently now thinks Marnaas is 'out of the way'? Interesting. Of course, that goes with the assumption that it was Khoud who put him out on Bilbringi in the first place, and also Khoud who brought him in to Marnaas. A quick check shows her that while Khoud did indeed call in Volc, Khoud was not responsible for stationing Volc out on Bilbringi. The name that comes up as to who took care of that assignation is Sur-Qam Talin of Alderaan, another member of the Jedi Council -- and incidentally the only Human on the Council, as well.

Freyja wrinkles her nose in disgust. Volc is sounding more and more like nothing more than... well... a regular old foaming psychopath with a touch of the Force. She's becoming less and less interested in having anything to do with such an apparently sick person.

She wonders unhappily if any connection be found between Volc and Valsha. They're both Bandomeerians, after all... and Volc seems to have skyrocketed to success astonishingly easily. Why did he receive command of the Bilbringi contingent of Jedi -- who okay'd that? -and why was that the military company sent to Marnaas -- who okay'd that too? Who did Khoud have to sleep with (metaphorically speaking) to get a plum job like managing all military Jedi operations in an entire sector?! Also, why did Khoud send only one Templar with Valsha to Ossus, when there are even rumors the Sith are aiming for Ossus next?

She rapidly discovers the connection between Volc and Valsha: other than being from the same planet, none. Valsha had already left with Master Mynas by the time the Sith invaded. Master Mynas informs her that of course it had been Balin Khoud who found Valsha and recommended her to Mynas. Mynas came by, tested the girl, and was glad to take her on -- and so began her own little journey, spurred on by Khoud.

A number of supporters or political comrades of Balin Khoud sponsored Volc for his command of the Company of the Burning Spears. The specific deliberations which sent the Bilbringi Jedi to Marnaas was part of a sealed Council meeting, and are not available. As for how Khoud got the job as Balmorra Sector prior... that's a little hard to tell. Certainly, the support of the Balmorra Sector Senator was helpful, and the senior members of the Council would also have to be approving of Balin Khoud. Again, that was a meeting that was sealed.

As for why Khoud sent only Colburth... she realizes that's a dangerous question to ask, and doesn't do so. After all, Templars only rarely leave Coruscant, and then only under Senate approval -- and Colburth wasn't a Templar, right? She snorts under her breath. Riiiight... and she's a striped geri-cat...

Well, let's consider the Sith again... is there any apparent pattern to their conquests? For example, are most of the conquered worlds rich in resources, or of military value, or important to industry or the Jedi, or something? What patterns can be seen in which Sith conquer what worlds -- are the military Sith after military targets and the infiltrating Sith are after rich targets, or what?

This information is found in just about any military review periodical, specifically in an article in Proceedings of the Strategic Institute of Kashyyyk. Like most projected, long-term interstellar military campaigns, the Great Hyperspace War sees both sides securing high-resource worlds. Worlds which are rich in resources would see significantly more forces securing them, as opposed to minor backwaters. Worlds with established infrastructures and populations would be strongly held as well, since high populations usually mean high development. Such worlds would not need further investment to develop them. It is important to properly secure those worlds, and by 'properly' it is meant that the hearts and minds of the people must be won. The Sith would expend effort in presenting to the population the image of a legitimate, effective government which would only minimally impact their daily lives. This would reduce the incidence of partisans and guerillas, and greatly reduce the numbers of people who would

These worlds, predictably, are held by the Republic very strongly. For the most part, the Sith have made use of the strategies of misdirection to lure away or divert Republic military forces away from these systems, either weakening the defenses of those systems significantly, or even outright depriving them of defensive forces altogether. The Sith military generally avoids direct confrontation, though it has happened. In general, the main thrusts of the Sith war machine have been directed at securing high-resource, high-population worlds, and only engaging military bases when those bases were in the same system (or near by) to their target worlds.

For the actual conquest of the worlds, the Sith usually undertake a two-pronged attack. Sith infiltrators get on-world by a variety of means, begin to undermine confidence in the government, and sabotage planetary defenses as quietly as possible. Meanwhile, the Sith fleets undertake strategic maneuvers to lure away any defending Republic and local military defense forces. If things go according to plan, an occupation force of the Sith hypers into the undefended target system and lays claim to the planet, whose leaders are just discovering that their planetary shields, surface-to-space weapons, and orbital defense platforms are not able to oppose the threat. The Sith then land their ground troops, assume control of any remaining defenses, install new ones, and secure the world. By the time Republic forces realize they've been duped and return, they find the target world very much secured by the Sith and a large fleet. The Sith, with a constant flow of forces from the rear echelons, can usually take one world in this manner every two or three months.

There are very few worlds which the Sith bother to conquer in this manner which are not high-resource/high-population. The most striking example is Bandomeer, which was one of the first worlds taken. Although of moderate population, it is neither a population center, nor is it particularly rich in resources. It is, however, the closest world to where the Sith empire is projected to be. According to intelligence, Bandomeer was either a test of the Sith's conquest strategy, or something ordered by elements within the Sith Hierarchy. Apparently the strategy of "planet hopping" presented by the Lords of War did not win over many proponents at first, and had to be proven. Bandomeer needed to be that proof. This does not explain why some other worlds, apparently low in resources, were similarly attacked and occupied. Some analysts believe that the current lull in the war means that the Sith will be coming up with a new strategy for the next phase of their plans.

She blinks, reading... this is really out of her area of specialty. If there's some significant clue residing in this information, she doesn't know how to work it out. Well... something else then, perhaps. Can Master Roakkana tell if the Senator's been mentally 'nudged'? Can he tell if Khoud really is Khoud? Has anyone tried 'feeling' if there's anything odd in the Force when Khoud's discussing controversial stuff -- as in he's hiding Sith-stain, or a puppeteer is hiding handling him, or he's wearing an illusion, or his brain carries a mental branding on it, or anything else?

Roakkana came up with an excuse to meet with the Senator, ostensibly to talk with him about the attempted hit on Zero and Freyja. He could see no sign of Kalatis being anything but Kalatis, though the Rodian did hurry the interview quickly, citing pressing business. Obviously, nobody who's hiding anything wants to be in the presence of a Jedi Master for very long -- or should. Khoud himself has been unavailable, citing preparations for the inquiry and to 'maintain a necessary distance to ensure the inquiry's impartiality.' As for 'feeling' if there's anything odd in the Force... neither Freyja nor Roakkana can find any record of such an occurrence taking place.

Freyja sighs quietly when she's done, and puts all the scraps of information she was able to find out into a short message which she sends to Zero and Roakkana, so as to keep them all up to date. She'll show it to Vakkal if he's interested... otherwise she thinks she's done here. She's not a Watcher or a fact-finder by any means. She'll stick to the things she knows how to do.

Roakkana, Freyja, and Zero aren't immediately called in front of the Council the next day. There are a number of deliberations first, organizing the process by which the inquiry will proceed, though they attend the opening of it.

Perhaps surprisingly, Master Sur-Qam Talin of Alderaan introduces Balin Khoud as not only the head of the inquiry, but also as newly-appointed Master in charge of operations and liason with Republic officals in the Balmorran Sector, particularly where it regards the issues of the war with the Sith. Since the invasion of Bandomeer, where he was abbot of the monastery at the time of the Sith invasion (and barely escaped with his entire staff and all Jedi at the monastery at the time) he has worked tirelessly to make Balmorra sector a bastion against further incursions by the Sith. "We all hope that his efforts will prove unneeded," Sur-Qam says, "but we are comforted by the work he has done in case they are. Gentlefolk, Master Balin Khoud...."

Freyja, Zero, and Vakkal have a few more days to explore Coruscant and experience the nightlife there, before being called up before the inquiry with Roakkana. With great formality, the seal holding them against speaking of anything to do with Marnaas is broken, and they are advised that since this is an ongoing investigation, they should be very careful whom they discuss these issues with. It isn't exactly an imploration for secrecy, but it's close.

It is also almost anticlimactic. Balin Khoud handles all of the questions that the Council asks of the three. He begins by asking Roakkana for a short synopsis of the incident on Marnaas, and proceeds from there. He occasionally asks for clarification from Freyja and Zero, leaving out any mention that Zero was there as catspaw for Kalatis, and proceeding with what is apparently a legal fiction that Zero was a padawan just waiting to happen all along.

Zero just plays along for now, although he has to suppress a twinge of irritation that he's apparently being 'covered' for. I suppose he's going to think I owe him for that, too.

The questioning seems slighlty odd, at least to the people who were actually there. Aside from noting himself that Valsha was almost frightened into joining the Oath of Fire, no other mention is made of the little Bandomeeran.

Freyja listens curiously, fascinated at how carefully the whole truth is being obscured.

Also, no mention is made of Colburth, and even when his name is mentioned now and then absolutely no mention is made of him being a Templar, neither is any mention made of the full nature of his mission while on Marnaas.

It becomes a little confusing when the duels with Vakkal and Fhazil are explored. Little is made of the dispositions of the two following their battles, other than 'they were treated for injuries while at the monastery.' A great deal is brought up regarding Qatto Verg, however (again, failing to explore in great detail Valsha's situation) and how the Oather possessed Methel-ssa. Zero is asked to give his impression of the battle that was fought with the mercenaries. A brief and animated discussion is held regarding Shen Ravos' visit to Marnaas, particularly involving the stealth technology they demonstrated, and Freyja is asked to describe the blight left over from Ravos' sword. Roakkana and each of the padawans are asked for their impressions of the Sith warlord.

Freyja shakes her head amusedly at the carefully edited versions of the capture of the apprentices. Does Khoud know about Vakkal but not want it to get out? But then why not press more on the disposition of Taas, the other apprentice? Very odd... it would seem he wants as little as possible known about them. Why, though? Has Ravos or Ghang asked for that? Again... why?

She decides amusedly she'll stick to doing what she thinks is right... and not playing politics. Too easy to badly tangle up one's ethics, otherwise. When asked about Ravos she politely points out she was extremely groggy at that point, having just tossed off the hugest mental yell for help she'd ever done before... so her impressions probably aren't that pertinent. The Sith lord was polite, seemed honorable, left quickly and quietly... and gave her a terrible headache.

Zero is equally polite and noncommital.

Methel-ssa is mentioned as having been taken back to Sith space by Ravos, the arrival of the Jedi is mentioned, estimated casualties and figures for the destruction of the spaceport are given....

And then, abruptly, it's over, at least for Roakkana, Freyja, and Zero. Two days spent in the Temple before the Council, Balin Khoud thanks them, and they are free to go, with an admonishment to not speak of events on Marnaas with anyone -- a vague statement considering all which happened there.

Departing from the Temple for the Borruda Block dorms, out of earshot of the Templars guarding the gates, Roakkana murmurs quietly, "It seems that they are attempting to sweep this so far under the carpet they will require another sub-basement to the Temple."

Freyja nods silently, glancing sideways up at her Master, then murmurs the question that's been bugging her for a while, "But why?"

Roakkana shakes his head. "I don't know. Much happened there. Of course he would not wish to have any knowledge of a Templar being there revealed. He also spoke little of Valsha. Oddly, he also did not ask after Fhazil and Vakkal. I suspect he knows whom your new huskarl is, however, and for whatever reason chose not to make it an issue before the Council." He gains a sour look as he enters the dorms. "I feel as if we now owe a debt to Balin Khoud, and I find that I rather dislike that feeling. Like falling into a catchbasin leaf filled with stagnent water in Kashyyyk's middle forests.

Freyja shakes her head calmly, "Neh, Master. I do not believe one can force a debt to be owed. If he wishes us to be in his debt, he should say so. I won't be playing intricate mind games with him to figure out if he feels that way or not."

Zero says, "Doesn't work that way with people like him and the Senator."

Freyja says, "They can play whatever games they like. I shall stick with what I believe is right, like Master Roakkana taught me.

"So... speaking of games..." she sighs softly, "Balmorra next, hai?"

Zero says, "Yeah, looks that way."

Roakkana makes a quiet sound. "Even so, it is something we must be aware of in the future. Even if we do not consider any debt owed, he will, and that may color his actions. I am thinking that we should put Coruscant behind us soon. I have already informed the Temple that we will be itinerant for the forseeable future, as is only proper for a training master and his padawan-learners. I have chosen to not state what our itinerary is, though they may divine that easily enough if they were truly determined, and of course it will not take a slicer or a Watcher to tell when we are on Balmorra. Yes, child, that will have to be the next step. Your familial duties will at least be less unwholesome than this business with the Marnaas inquiry."

Freyja says firmly, "Then he owes us a debt also, Master... for politely playing along with his hiding of the complete truth -- from the Council!" She mutters under her breath at the Wookie's last comment, "...barely..."

"For all we know, he is taking that into account as well, and sees this as a return for your favor. If either of you have any business left to conduct on Coruscant, you may wish to do it soon. I believe Kuras Ridomr will be instructed to transport us to Balmorra immediately once Baron Rigg learns that the inquiry is over."

Freyja nods, "She was." She doesn't comment on her complete lack of interest in Khoud's peculiar machinations... she has no intention of being included with the apparently psychopathic Volc, in Khoud's mind, as one of the 'tools' he can manipulate without qualm.

Zero says, "Right. Before we take off I want to check on one thing with Vakkal... but it's a minor thing."

Freyja looks curious, "Sure. What is it?"

Zero says, "Nothing, I just want to know if he'd like the sword. It's better off in the hands of someone that can use it properly... and if he's going to take custody of it I don't want to have to carry it for him all the way to Balmorra."

Roakkana nods, "Of course, Zero. Let us prepare, then. We'll leave Coruscant tonight... hopefully before any of the Temple Masters or any Senators decide to make some free time for us in their, hopefully busy, schedules."

Freyja blinks... then says cautiously, "Um... I think he uses a lightsaber, but let's find out." She calls Vakkal, once they enter the apartments, for Zero.

Vakkal is a little surprised by the offer, but notes that he was trained in the use of the sword before (attempting) to teach himself the lightsabre; he notes that he is much better with the physical blade rather than the 'sabre, but he had resolved to practice more with the lightsabre. The sword, however, is an unexpected surprise. While he is a little edgy since it belonged to Talmon, and still has the Trandoshan's faint touch upon it, he promises to care for it properly. A quick trip to Staster's yields a suitable case for the weapon.

Piper Ridomr has her small courier, the Sieghilde Rigg, already prepared for departure by the time the party is ready to depart. The courier is comfortable, meant for transporting upwards of six passengers in relative comfort for journies of several weeks. The accomodations are very much like what Freyja remembers from her family's estate's tamer guest rooms: not terribly ostentatious, but the mark of wealth is there.

The journey out from Coruscant goes quickly -- Piper has clearly done much custom work of her Hildy, as she calls the courier affectionately. There is a brief moment of tension when a call arrives for Roakkana on the outbound leg from Coruscant orbit, a call for an encrypted realtime conversation with Balin Khoud. Taking but one look at the Wookie's resulting expression, Piper pushes forward the hyperdrive controls. The stars instantly become swirling streaks of light around the ship, as it leaps into the netherdimensions of faster-than-light travel. The call annunciator immediately goes silent.

"Oops," Piper says, without an ounce of remorse. "Pity ye dinnae get a chance tae answ'r thot call, Mast'r Roakkana, sahr, afore I 'ad tae bring th' ship intae 'yperspace...."

Freyja grins, then says demurely, "Goodness, I'd forgotten what a good pilot you are, Piper. Thank you, my dear."

Zero smirks. "Power surge. I saw it. Didn't you? Right there on the board."

Roakkana blinks, then gives a soft chuckle. "Thank you, Kuras Ridomr," he says easily. "I appreciate the... efficiency with which you brought us on the first leg of our journey."

Piper chuckles softly as she leans back. "Aye, thankee, all! 'Twas figurin' thot was nae a conversatin' thot any o' ye were wantin' tae be 'avin. We'll be at th' out'r mark'r o' Balmorra in nary ten days."

Freyja works carefully during the journey on meditating. She wants to remain serene while on Balmorra... but is worried her father will manage his usual (possibly unwitting) trick of managing to fiercely irritate her without effort. Still... regardless of how she may feel about her father, she doesn't want to end up taking that irritation out on others -- especially her friends, or the hapless lord Fafnir Jotunsen -- who doubtless has little to no expectations of her anyway. As far as she knows, all the holovids of her that he could have been shown are of her as a chubby, awkward, unhappy-looking, and unsmiling girl.

The only time she recalls looking at all human, at least as far as she remembers, is candid shots of her on slaypneer back, out riding with the frehkees... and there are damn few of those, since she tended to simply take off alone whenever possible.

Freyja also runs through proper Balmorran protocol with Vakkal (and Zero, if he wishes), showing him the simple salute -- a bow from the waist, or nod, accompanied by the loosely fisted right hand being brought up to touch the left over the heart, "I was taught the legend or premise behind the ritual greeting is that you're on slaypneer-back, so your left hand is left free for important things, like holding the reins and the bow. You'll only have some arrows -- or a sword, at most -- in the right hand. You bow with the salute to aristoi, and if you feel you wish to show respect to a kurasai you'd nod with the salute. That's really it. Make sense?"

Zero spends most of his trip either helping monitor the Sieghilde's systems, or practicing quietly. There's not quite enough room to practice without busting one's knuckles on a bulkhead (as the little assassin finds out the hard way early on), so he concentrates on making himself tired enough to sleep each 'day' with simple exercises, usually doing pullups in a doorway.

The trip to Balmorra takes a few hours longer than strictly ten standard days, but it is completed without any problems. During the trip, Vakkal works on somewhat more permamently muting the sithstain or blight on the sword, making it's influence rather much less felt by the Force-sensitives aboard, to the point that it is only if the case is opened can it be at all felt. Freyja is tremendously relieved at Vakkal's efforts, and quietly thanks him privately at some later point.

The Sieghilde Rigg bursts out of hyperspace, arcing towards the dusty, mottled sphere of Balmorra and its green moon. With some instructions from Balmorran Aerospace Traffic Control, and interestingly a brief mention of clearance from the Republic naval base on Balmorra's moon -- and both "with compliments and congratulations to the Lady Freyja" -- the Hildy descends through Balmorra's atmosphere, crossing the terminator to land at a grid surrounded by tall pines in the Barony while dusk is creeping up on the land.

Exiting from the courier, after it's engines have shut down, is almost eerie. On Marnaas, there was always the sound of spacecraft launching or landing or making approaches of one sort or another, plus the whine of airspeeders. Coruscant was the same, only multiplied a hundredfold. Here... it is almost silent but for the wind through the trees.

Freyja wonders with bleak amusement just how quickly she'll get corralled into 'proper' clothes. If she's lucky she'll have a day or so free... while the seneschal madly organizes the various rituals and parties. She looks around with a pang of homesickness for just a second, listening with quiet contentment to the soft sussurus of the wind... then heads quietly for the mansion.

Zero tightens his sash and pulls his jacket a little closer around himself. "Well... not exactly the reception I expected..."

Freyja smiles quietly, "I like it. The red carpet treatment is... creepy."

Zero says, "I suspect it just hasn't got here yet."

Freyja winces slightly, then sighs and squares her shoulders, and heads determinedly for the house, head held high.

Shortly, through one of the more well-kept (and, upon closer inspection, subtly paved) forest trials, and coming forward as the courier's ion engines are powered down, are an assembly of Humans -- more Humans than either padawan has seen in the past several months, perhaps. They are quickly preceeded by a quiet, if excited, pack of large, canid creatures, each at least waist-high and bearing quietly-jeweled collars. They swarm around the new arrivals, poking noses almost politely in greeting and interest. Needless to say, as Vakkal steps from the courier he is immediately swamped with curious noses and perked ears, which gives the more upright members of the party time to arrive.

It is impossible to miss the Baron Forsetti Odenn Rigg. A tall man, not as tall as Roakkana, though, and not quite as broad-shouldered if at all possible, his once-pale-blonde hair has now turned steel grey, his luxurious moustache waving in the breeze. His icy blue eyes still have a penetrating (if only slighlty dulled) gaze. The thick, knee-length muslin coat-tunic of forest green seems to be bursting at the seams to contain him, despite the gold embroidery and thin white fur trip on the hems.

The smile he gives is genuine enough, as he steps up onto the pad with his arms spread. "Welcome home, Freyja!" he says expansively.

Zero evaluates the Baron quietly. Gods below, he's agiant. He straightens himself up a little.

Freyja grins and kneels, hugging frehkees, ruffling ears, gently pushing wet noses away, and greeting them all happily by name. The perceptive may notice the sincere happiness in her voice is, oddly, only for the frehkees, however... although she stands and properly salutes her father, then steps forward and hugs him, "Thank you, Father." She steps back, gesturing to her friends, "You already know Master Roakkana. May I introduce my brother Padawan, Zero Satau, and my huskarl Vakkal? This is my father, Baron Forsetti Balder Rigg of Balmorra." She's only an inch or two shorter than her father -- but he's almost overwhelmingly broad in comparison to her.

Freyja's eyes are striking, a thoughtful and disconcertingly direct ice blue. Her serene face is framed by a thick, soft brown mane cropped pragmatically short but for one long, thin braid in the back. Long legs and well-tanned shoulders and arms reveal the strong, supple musculature of an athlete. The sturdily practical clothing on her tall, eye-catching form consists of snug breeches, a cropped athlete's top, the lightly armored, taped combat gloves of a swordswoman, and well-worn, sure-footed, soft leather boots.

Zero bows politely, hands out slightly with palms open. "Sah. A pleasure, Baron.

The Baron embraces Freyja somewhat formally, with affection but it's clearly all right and proper. "Indeed I do," he says, bowing slightly to the large Wookie. "Welcome back, Master Roakkana."

The Wookie returns the gesture, unable to hide his amusement at Vakkal's plight with the frehkees.

Rigg nods to each of the men in turn, greeting them by name. "Padawan Sataw, greetings and welcome to Balmorra. I hope that your stay is a pleasant one. Welcome to you also, Huskarl Vakkal, as the head of House Rigg, I welcome you to our service. I hope that your time with us is mutually rewarding. I believe Huskarl Magnussen is eager to meet you."

Coached beforehand, Vakkal manages to bow to Baron Rigg. "It is an honor to be your daughter's huskarl, my lord Baron."

Freyja smiles at Vakkal's polite comment, then looks around a bit, wishing they could move on into the house so she could get mostly alone again. One hand straying absently to ruffle the ears of a frehkee leaning against her leg, she murmurs, "Father, are Mother and Syffy home?" She is faintly relieved there's been no commentary on her current attire. Serenity... she's focusing on serenity, that's it.

Rigg nods, then half-glances over his shoulder. The woman who comes forward then is only a few finger's shorter than the Baron, with a matching coat-tunic of lighter cut and slightly less ostentacious embroidery, but enhanced by a decorative brooch at the throat, her hair gathered in a silken, almost turban-like wrapping. Though her hair is ash-blond, it is clearly from her that Freyja inherits her blue eyes from. She smiles, though it is a quiet and reserved expression in public. She comes forward to embrace Freyja. "Oh, it's good to see you again, Freyja!" she exclaims. "We were so worried about you! Syf isn't here yet. Her ship is due to arrive late tomorrow night."

Freyja smiles more sincerely, hugging her shorter but equally slender mother gently, "Hello, Mother. It's good to see you again. Did you hear the introductions, or shall I repeat them?" She blinks, then straightens with a puzzled look, "Er... why were you worried about me?"

Erde Rigg nods, smiling and greeting each person in turn. "Master Roakkana, always a pleasure.... Padawan Satau, welcome.... Huskarl Vakkal, greetings to you and welcome...." She shakes her head to Freyja. "After we heard about what happened on Marnaas, well, we were of course worried sick for you. And you as well, of course, Master Roakkana."

Forsetti Rigg coughs a little -- it's actually hard to tell wether it is a 'we must be going' cough or a genuine 'tickle in the throat' cough -- and says, "Come, let us let you get settled in the manse. I'm sure you've had a long trip, and you can change into more... appropriate attire for the evening meal."

Freyja nods, tucking an arm into her mother's and heading for the house, "Thank you for your concern, Mother, but you really shouldn't worry so much, truly." She carefully doesn't react to her father's comment, but does ask a bit warily, "So... is tonight a formal affair?" The fingers of her free hand tend to lightly scritch the fur of the happy frehkee trotting along next to her, occasionally bumping into her hip... it's almost like she finds it unwittingly reassuring. Next to her parents, Freyja's much warmer toned skin is rather obvious, in comparison to their aristocratic paleness.

With an almost long-suffering pause, Forsetti Rigg notes that tonight is not formal, as they were not certain when Freyja would be arriving, and instead had planned on a light but late supper. The following night will be the formal dinner to welcome Freyja back home.

The short walk through the forest leads to an open field, not far beyond which is the pillared manse, a minaret at each of the five corners of the white marble edifice, almost every square foot elaborately engraved with ancient Alderaanian caligraphy. The trail leads to one of the smaller side "doors," which is actually a open-air passageway which runs along that side of the manse, with curved doorways leading into the interior. It is through one of the open doors that the Baron leads the small grouping.

Throughout the walk, the fhrekees have been swarming all through the group. Some are obviously sizing up Vakkal, wondering if he's the new alpha of the manse's kennel, an impression not lost on the Sith. The fhrekee that leans against Freyja is the eldest of the group, Stein, having all but grown up with Piper, Syf, and the eldest Rigg daughter.

Freyja looks faintly relieved at hearing it's not a formal dinner... then mentally braces herself for Serenity! I'm going to be serene at that damn dinner tomorrow night! She

The entry hall is tall, with straight walls rising up almost five meters, the vaulted cieling having a faint "onion" shape to it. Mahogany pillars rise up to support the stone arches. Here the caligraphy is somewhat muted and sparse, but still occasionally present; this particular hall has, running along the edges and corners, the complete Veda Beowulfsen, written originally sometime during the Heresy Wars.

Baron Rigg excuses himself, citing business with several other corporate executives. A small gaggle of non-Humans can be seen through one of the doors the Baron exits through, and before the door closes there's the party can hear an oddly strained and audibly angry Forsetti Rigg say, "I was not about to parlay with you while my daughter arrived unattended! Now, Sir, regarding those battledroids you wish to 'test' just outside my borders, let me explain to you just how my ancestors said 'no....'" Then the door shuts.

Erde Rigg seems to nod a little at what little of the Baron's tirade they heard, then smiles, a little apologetically, to the others. "Your father has been under some stress lately, dear," she says.

Freyja will head as rapidly as is courteously possible to her wing of the manse, departing politely from her parents and shedding as many courtiers as she can as well... although she knows, with some resignation, there will be more, to ensure she's at least 'dressed' for dinner.

She also firmly dismisses all the frehkees except Stein, since he was hers while she still lived here. Once the doors on the wing are shut, Vakkal is introduced to Stein, "Say hello, Stein!" He warbles a short woofle, then sits and politely holds up the right frontmost of his six paws to the big dog Sith.

Vakkal blinks to Stein, then finally realizes what the gesture means. He very gingerly takes the frehkee's paw. "Uhm... pleased, Stein. Hello." He glances to Freyja. "They aren't... I mean, they aren't sentient, are they...?"

Freyja raises an eyebrow, then just nods silently, "It's all right, Mother. Let me know if there's anything I can do to help."

Freyja grins, "Neh, Vakkal, it's just a cute trick I taught him. I learned how to train animals with him and my big sla- er, father's slaypneer now..." She falls silent for a second, then says firmly, "Anyway. They're both lovely and well-behaved animals I'm very proud of, but neh, they're not sentient." She adds a bit wistfully, "Maybe we can sneak out and go riding tomorrow morning, before sunrise." She sighs, takes a deep breath, then adds calmly, "All right. Let's make sure everyone's comfortable, and has someone to help them change for dinner, hai?"

Zero says, "Dinner. Capital idea." He tries not to gawk at any one fixture too much. More money than I'll ever see. No wonder they practically own the system.

Freyja grins, adding to Zero as well as Vakkal, "If the frehkees push you, or try to leap up, just say 'Neh!' firmly and push them over, all right?"

Vakkal nods, "Certainly!"

Zero nods. "Alright. I don't think it'll be a problem. Animals usually don't like me much."

Freyja grins amusedly, "All the more they'll test you, then, Zero." She makes sure Zero and Master Roakkana are comfortably ensconced in adjoining apartments, then heads for her suite with Vakkal. People of various species seem to just appear as needed to help out... sometimes with startling alacrity.

The few short hours pass. Predictably enough, each of the four sees someone arriving to help (and perhaps in some sense ensure that they) get into their clothing in Freyja's case; recommend suitable clothing and offer it if they do not have in Zero's or Vakkal's case; or, for the poor houseservant who comes to Roakkana, to explain that they have no formal wear which would be at all suitable or even remotely comfortable for a Wookiee. Roakkana expresses his (amused) perfect understanding.

The four shortly meet just outside the doorway leading to the family dining room. Roakkana for his part wears his baldric in Jedi colors, which he's conceeded to dust off a bit. The frehkees have by now wandered off on other errands and things of canid import.

Vakkal has been informed that, for tonight, he will be dining as a guest of House Rigg, but that on the morrow he will be expected to, at Freyja's convenience, report to Magnussen Ridomr to be formally introduced to the head huskarl and the others of the household guard.

Freyja is properly dressed... sort of. It looks more like an uneasy compromise between personality clash and local custom than anything else.

Freyja is a willowy, warm-honey-colored woman. Her steady eyes are frost blue, and her short-cropped, soft brown mane is undecorated -- highly unusual amongst Balmorran aristoi. She's obviously a shockingly pragmatic lady: the colorful, raw silk riding coat bears little adornment, and is worn startlingly informally -- loose and open over a light, brilliant silk shirt. Her flowing, patterned trousers tuck into obvious cavalry boots -- soft leather, intricately ornamented, with pointed, up-turned toes. She wears no other jewelry, though, and makes no unnecessary movements, her silent demeanor a curious mix of reserved pride and wariness. Unless spoken to, she's soon quietly gone.

Zero puts away his coat and pulls out the black mandarin-collared jacket he wore on Marnaas. With a little pressing courtesy of the house, it looks formal and presentable enough (if a little utilitarian), once it's been fully buttoned up and the throat clasped. The only bit of affectation is the clasp holding closed the throat: a circular lozenge of black pearl. He nods to Roakkana as he steps into the hallway, and grins as he adjusts his cuffs, "Looking sharp, Master. How do I look?"

Freyja smiles at her friends, "You all look nice." She takes a breath, visibly braces herself, then says with a polite gesture towards the huge inlaid wooden doors to the dining room, "Shall we?"

Standing straight and wiry, this is a pale-skinned Human, maybe in his early twenties, with a strong though not bulky build. His left cheek is marred by a long, straight scar that crosses his lips just alongside his nose, and his hair is a mass of short, choppy white spikes, swept back from his forehead. His features are sharp, his expression calm, although his wide, almond-shaped eyes hold back something akin to wry amusement in their violet irises. He wears a pair of soft, loose black pants, cut just a little wide for his frame and belted close at the waist, and a black jacket with a close Mandarin collar above, over a close-fitting white shirt. In the sash tied around his waist is stuck a long-handled lightsabre, three-pronged at the hilt. A pair of soft-soled black shoes muffle his steps. His bearing is collected, his posture easy, loose, and the hint of a smile on the corner of his lips softens the incongruous lines of the scar.

Roakkana chuckles softly. "Thank you, Zero, and you look very well, though I almost wish to offer you my condolences for some unknown reason. I almost feel vastly under-dressed... if even this baldric were not more than what most of my people wear." He nods pleasantly to Freyja. "You look well, child. Have strength, this is surely better than dinner with Derga Volc."

Freyja nods firmly to the Wookie, her demeanor as serene as she can maintain.

The doors are opened shortly by a houseservant, and the four are ushered into the dining room. The room itself is meant for less formal meals, and as such is not as ostentacious as the main hall. The mahogany has a warmer feel to it, the cieling is slightly lower lending a closeness of atmosphere. The family present is already gathering, Forsetti and Erde, and some few of the seniormost retainers. There is one there, however, who is most definitely not family or retainer: a slender Neimoidian, in subtle, austere robes. The Baron Rigg introduces him as Lord Geidra Kul, the charge d'affaires for Count Mis Thullalkhazan. The Baron invited him to dinner with the family for the evening, since Lord Kul's discussions with the baron have taken long into the night, and look to continue to early the next day.

Freyja nods and salutes the lord politely. She's slightly creeped out to realize, in a discrete corner of the room, standing in the shadows in the place usually reserved for any protective huskarls or guards which visitors might have, is an incongruously armored person, about her height. The armor, trimmed in and with green highlights, is all-enclosing, to the point where all she can tell is that the wearer is humanoid. There are no clear markings which she can see from where she is. He (?) is discretely armed with a blaster pistol in a covered holster and a short length of cloth in a sort of peace-bond around the holster. She frowns, glancing at her father puzzledly... a Mandalorian? Who is this Lord Kul, to be affording one of those?

Zero hmms quietly to himself. Either House Rigg is investing in expensive huskarl, or the Baron's got a visitor with high tastes in bodyguards. He nudges Roakkaana. "Heads up," he whispers, "Someone's got fancy taste in hardward."

Freyja's second look is at her friends. She flicks her eyes towards that corner... then discreetly doesn't look there any more.

Zero carefully doesn't frown; although the reflex makes the corners of his mouth twitch. Mandalorian. I'm sure of it. Something's up.

The armored Mandalorian makes no move, other than a slight incline of his head in the direction of the newcomers, made all the creepier with the narrow, T-shaped visor the helmet has. Roakkana nods quietly, and Vakkal doesn't even do that, though his eyes flicker in that direction, and Freyja can feel the canid tense a little.

Rigg explains, with a bit of pride in his voice, "Lord Kul and I are discussing the current... issues which Balmorra is facing. But, come, let us meal, and leave business away from the table." He gestures to the table, upon which the houseservants are placing a light supper -- a savory, light soup, a vegetable medley, something that looks like it might be a meat cassarole if it wasn't purple.

The Neimoidian smiles as his race only can, and nods, "Indeed," he says in heavily accented Aurabesh. "Count Mis and I are very eager to discuss the situation with Baron Rigg." But he falls silent, not speaking any more of that as the Baron requests.

Freyja lets her senses drift slightly, touching the Force to see if there's any strangeness around the Mandralorian, once she's seated. She can't feel anything out of the ordinary on the Mandralorian. She doesn't think it's Force awakened... she still doesn't like it, though. Creepy. She sighs... well, at least it's something else to be tense about, instead of just Father... she has to suppress a giggle at that thought. Serenity... she's serene, hai. She still can't prevent herself from quietly knowing where it is in relation to her friends and family, though... and she's acutely aware of the lightsaber handle tucked neatly into her inner sash. She wishes idly she had her blaster with her... then smiles to herself as she realizes what she really wants is some action, to break her out of this quiet, constant tension she's feeling around her family. It's a pity... but she has this weird sensation of impending doom on this visit. She crosses her fingers that it's not due to the unknown man she's betrothed to.

The dinner proceeds with idle chat. Carefully avoiding anything remotely like business to either the Riggs or to the Jedi present, a table rule of both the traditionbound Baron Rigg and his wife, the talk turns to less strenuous things; by some unspoken arrangement between Forsetti and Erde, the war with the Sith is also not mentioned. The talk is almost banal, but pleasantly distant, and of no great import -- perfect when one is busy feeding the needs of the body and trying not to worry about other things.

Freyja is mostly quiet, not being very good at chit-chat. She makes an effort to smile politely and respond with courtesy when spoken to, however.

Zero concentrates mostly on his food. He coughs once, very softly, at a sudden thought. If this Jotun guy pops out of that armor, I might hack this wine all over the Master.

As is tradition, each course -- of which there are only a few -- is interspaced with a serving of sherbet, to clean the palatte. It is enjoyable enough, and the food is certainly delicious, well-spiced and tasty if tangy, the unknown meat cassarole tasting like something between venison and salmon -- likely a sort of fish, to accomodate Lord Kul.

Dinner winds down, and the Baron proposes to retire to the parlor. Lord Kul stands as well. "My apologies, Baron," he says, bowing, and giving a passable verson of the house salute, "but I fear I must retire to my chambers. I am afraid that the dryness of the air of Balmorra has always been ill-suited towards my people."

The baron nods. "Of course, Lord Kul. We shall meet again on the morrow."

Freyja nods politely to the Neimoidian, and remains discreetly silent.

"My thanks, Baron." He bows politely to each person in turn, adding, "And congratulations on your impending betrothal, Lady Freyja," before departing. The Mandalorian is already preceeding him, and both padawans can see, as they leave, one of the Rigg huskarls quietly and politely shadowing the pair; obviously Magnussen is not entirely comfortable with a Mandalorian present, either. If either Lord Kul or the Mandalorian notice the huskarls, they take no notice nor make no comment.

After Lord Kul and his shadow depart for the evening, Baron Rigg ushers everyone to the parlor, which in this case means a room just off the dining room, for the diners to relax and digest their food while houseservants and droids clean the dining room.

Freyja sighs once the foreign lord and his bodyguard have left, straightening slightly to look at her father thoughtfully. She murmurs quietly, "Does the Count worry so much about his emissary's safety in our house... that he feels he must send a Mandralorian?!"

At his daughters comment, which he managed to hear, the elder Rigg snorts a little. "Believe me, daughter, if he wasn't the Count's emissary, I would have told him 'no' at the door. As it is, Count Mis was concerned for Lord Kul's safety for the trip. Everyone knows that the Rigg huskarls are beyond repproach and are the finest house guards on Balmorra!"

Erde smiles a little (indulgently?) to Forsetti's proclaimation. "The companies which manufacture military droids," she explains, as Forsetti calms down, "are not enjoying pleasant relations with one another, to put it mildly. Each is looking to use this news as an excuse to discredit the other."

"Fools, I say!" Rigg interjects. "To disrupt the way business has been done on Balmorra for centuries, if not millenia!"

Erde places a hand on her husband's forearm as he sits, which seems to serve to console the man. "As it is, while we have already expressed our... displeasure at the slight to our huskarls, Count Mis insisted, noting that Lord Kul would be travelling through the cantons of the two companies that are most at each others' throats."

Freyja listens with thoughtful interest to the interplay between her parents. "Which news is this, Mother?" She gives Vakkal a sympathetic glance. While she has no worries for his safety, she suspects Magnussen will not be in a forgiving mood when he meets Vakkal in the dojo tomorrow.

"Oh, the vid footage of that Balmorran war-droid in the hands of the Sith."

Rigg settles into the hassock before the fire that quietly crackles, and Erde smoothly settles in beside him. "It was the devil's own time I had," he says sourly, "trying to get the fools to settle down long enough so that my daughter's betrothal wouldn't be interrupted by a Viper SX-23 crashing through the front door accidentally! Oh, yes... speaking of which, the young Lord Fafnir and his father will be arriving in two days for the formal introductions."

Freyja sits comfortably cross-legged on her large, tasseled cushion once her parents are seated, specifically picking one that allows her friends room to sit nearby if they wish. She manages to keep her face impassive at both bits of news, merely saying politely, "So... interesting. The Balmorran droid industry leaders wish to attack each other... to prove they're not responsible for the droid the Sith had? I... fail to understand the logic in this...?" She sighs internally. Syf tomorrow, the young man the next... she simply must sneak out for some riding, or she's going to go mad!

Erde shakes her head, while the Baron fumes silently. "It began slowly enough. One by one they denied the allegations that they had anything to do with it, that they would not trade with the Sith. Then, I... we imagine that someone in one of the companies had the idea that they could pin the blame on another company. This led to accusations, counter-accusations--"

Forsetti interrupts, "And then they completely lost what few wits they had left and started shouting about 'protecting our interests' and posting combat droids along thir canton borders. It was inevitable that there be a few incidents."

Erde continues. "Count Mis has already asked Senator Kalatis for assistance, and we are expecting a diplomatic mission from the Senate and the Jedi to come to negotiate some sanity into this."

Forsetti nods, glumly. "Yes, well... We shall see what comes of it." He sighs a little. "At least you'll be marrying the son of what seems to be one of the few other sane man in this system. Lord Jotunsen has been quietly keeping neutral through all this."

Freyja studies her ringless hands, resting relaxedly in her lap as she says slowly, "I... have heard it is, ah... a common Sith practice to destabilize local governments before attack. Does this sound like an unusual level of paranoia here, honored parents?" Her quietly inquiring glance is at her mother, although the question is addressed to both.

Rigg shakes his head, sighing, as Erde shakes her head a little at Freyja's glance. It is the Baron who answers. "No, the paranoia's always been around. Some of these companies have holdings that span the entire sector." He sounds very tired. "At some point it's not enough to have profit, they must have more profit. The Senate -- most of the senators, anyway -- encourage it. To the point where they can't even comprehend the numbers involved." He straightens a little. "Me, I've always examined Cyteller Automaton's books personally! Remember that, Freyja, when you are running the estate. Never take anything for granted!" Erde has a wry look, but says nothing; her expression, on the other hand, notes that she helps out at least a little, too, with the books.

Roakkana says quietly, respectfully, and dryly, "That is indeed one lesson which both Freyja and Zero, as well, have learned quite well, I am proud to say." Admittedly, the vodor clipped on his baldric fails to carry the dry tone of his voice, but it makes an otherwise excellent translation.

Zero inclines his head politely, kneeling on one of the hassocks.

Freyja nods sagely, although her eyes sparkle for a second with hastily suppressed amusement. She does manage to keep her internal smile to nothing more than a twitch of her lips, fortunately. She sighs a moment later, "Ah, well. If it's always been there, I suppose there's not much that can be done about it... except ride it out." She pauses, reflecting, then says cautiously, "So... might I ask, honored Father, why no word was sent to me of my betrothal?"

Rigg nods a little. "Good, well... I'm glad to hear that. You've been an excellent teacher, then, Master." He looks to Freyja, and nods. "The arrangements were made rather quickly -- quicker than some of us would have liked, but have no doubt that we were very careful in the planning. Unfortunately, one of the retainers -- who is no longer employed by Haus Rigg -- took it upon himself to inform the society media that 'the sister of Syf Rigg is to be married.'" He grimaces a little, wincing slightly. "You were to have been informed of it, before the news reached the society news."

Freyja is very still for a moment, listening... then relaxes slightly, nodding, "I see. Thank you, Father. Er... why were they made so quickly, if I might ask?"

Rigg opens his mouth to answer, when Erde gently places her hand on his shoulder. She looks a little uncomfortable. "Your father's concern is about the war with the Sith, and how it is going."

Freyja raises an eyebrow, then says very, very calmly, "In what way, Mother?"

Zero looks up for a moment, and sees something in Freyja's mother's eye. He remains quiet, though, and lowers his head again, pretending to be drowsing over the meal.

Erde takes in a slight breath, almost a sigh. "You father... well, he is not one of the top leaders of Balmorran industry for nothing. He sees... a trend in the war. A not very good one. He--"

Rigg straightens, and looks over to Freyja. "The Republic's loosing. It's slow, but it's steady, if the Sith keep this up. Freyja, the time may come sooner than later when you won't have any familial obligations to keep, because there may very well be no family, and for once before the Sith come I would like to see you standing as the proud inheritor of the Rigg legacy." His jaw works a little, as he looks back into the fire, grumbling a bit.

Freyja just... blinks at her father. She manages to squelch the sudden rush of responses that flare up in her mind -- did he think she'd just come tamely home? Did he think she'd really believe he -- HE, the ultimate emotional controller -- was going to step aside and let her run things? Didn't he realize as a Jedi she'd be at the forefront of the conflict? -that an inheritance was rather worthless if you lost it soon thereafter?! -that by goddess she was going to be a little busy fighting the Sith to be sitting at home sprouting the next Rigg generation?! For less than a fraction of a second her eyes flare up -- and then she takes slow, deep breaths and centers herself again.

The two can barely hear the elder Rigg mutter, "Though they're already here, it seems," before Erde puts a hand on his shoulder, a bit tightly. "It has... made things a little discomforting. But until the Sith come if they do, then we will continue as we have," she adds, perhaps a bit quickly.

Rigg stands abruptly, harrumphing a bit. "I think that I shall retire myself," he says. "The day has been long and those fools from the surrounding cantons took a great deal out of me. Welcome home, daughter," he adds, "and a good eve to you, Master Roakkana, Padawan Satau, Huskarl Vakkal. I may be asleap soon, my wife, so good night." With that and nothing more the Baron walks stoicly and a little stiffly from the room.

Zero says, "Your lordship."

Freyja stares at her father leaving... then turns to her mother once he's gone and demands, "What's that supposed to mean?! What the Hela is going on here, Mother?!"

Erde, sighs a bit, closing her eyes. "Freyja. Calm yourself. Now, please." She opens her eyes. "Your father believes that the war with the Sith will continue to grow worse. It has been eating at him for months. This situation here has made him irritable, but with you in the center of things on Marnaas made it even worse. For us both. He is in his own way, glad to see you, though he never shows emotion very well."

Freyja rolls her eyes at the comment about emotion, then takes a deep breath, "Hai, I under- well, I don't, but I can at least commiserate with you. Nevertheless, what did he mean about the Sith being here already?"

Zero adds, softly, "He was looking at Vakkal."

Erde nods quietly, then settles into a slightly more comfortable position on the hassok. She nods to Zero. "Senator Kalatis's office sent word ahead, not a few days ago, that your huskarl was... formerly of the Sith Empire." She looks to Vakkal, and sighs. "Your father understands loyalty, and duty. He wants to trust that you understand those concepts as well. It's for that reason that he hasn't said anything more. So far, only he and I know. Not even Magnussen knows, which has eaten at him as well."

Vakkal, for his part, where he's been sitting cross-legged on another hassok, has a mildly stunned expression on his face, one matched in nature if not degree by Roakkana.

Freyja's eyes narrow, and she can feel a prickle of fury crawl across her skin for just a moment... then she forces herself to calm. Very quietly and slowly she says to her mother, "Vakkal is an honorable man, and my sworn Soulguard, by his own choice. He is not a spy, and I will ask you and Father both to keep that in mind. I will consider a slight to him a slight to me while I am under this roof." She rises in a fluid motion and bows formally and politely to her mother, "Good evening, Mother. Vakkal, I do not think we are welcome here right now... we should withdraw."

Zero doesn't say anything, only narrows his eyes. He murmurs, mostly to himself and almost inaudible except perhaps to Vakkal whom he is sitting closest to, "You bastard. See if I don't cut you for this..."

Freyja turns and strides for the door -- where she adds fiercely over her shoulder, "And you can tell Senator Kalatis that next time he wants the man walking with me to be murdered, he should hire competent help!"

Erde sighs, and closes her eyes. "Freyja... sit back down. It's because of that that your father hasn't said anything. If he had held any doubts otherwise, he would have had huskarl Vakkal arrested at the landing pad."

Freyja stares at her mother from the doorway, "Neh, Mother, Father does have doubts, or he wouldn't have made that atrociously rude comment. Good night." She turns and heads... for the barns. It's hopefully not where folks will expect to find her, and she needs some time to pull herself together. She has this absurd urge to cry... hugging the frehkees and the slaypneer that used to be hers might help a bit.

Zero turns his eyes to Roakkana, waiting for some signal or an indication.

Roakkana lets out a breath, as the elder Erde quietly retires herself. "Family runions are far more difficult than the holovids would have us believe," he says softly. "You may wish to inquire after Freyja, Zero. I doubt Vakkal will wish to be far from her, so I will stay with him. I get no sense of anything but the truth -- for the most part -- from the elder Riggs tonight, so I do not believe Vakkal is in any danger. However, for the time being I will stand with him. Perhaps, if there is nothing else, then this rank of Jedi Master I hold may be of some actual use, to show that I have trust in him as much as Freyja does."

Zero nods and rises. "Stick with him, Master, I don't..." He pauses. "Call it professional paranoia, but... we're not safe here. And he's got more to lose than the rest of us. If my story gets out, I go to Kessel for the rest of my life. His story gets out... they kill him in front of the Chancellor and every vid-station news jockey in the Core."

Roakkana stands, the Sith already having left, Vakkal obviously twitchy and unsure as to what to do or say. The suggestion to go at least in Freyja's general direction seems to be met with his eminent agreement. "I will take that under serious consideration, Zero." Roakkana says. "Your 'professional paranoia' did us well on Marnaas." He ambles off with surprising speed towards where Vakkal most likely is.

Zero takes off, wasting no time. He spends several excruciatingly long minutes striding quickly through what feels like miles of empty corridor. He hates the feeling; his footsteps feel thunderous in the hallway. Where the hell could she have gone? This building turns in on itself like a gut... where would she go... trying to find someplace safe from-- He finds himself slowing to a walk... then starts, and breaks into a sprint as it hits him, Safe! The dogs! He sprints until he finds a passing servant, "Hey! Excuse me, where's the kennel at?"

The houseservant points Zero in the right direction: the kennel is in it's own rather pleasant house just outside the manse.

The kennels adjoin the barn, along with several other small buildings whose use is not immediately apparent. Oddly, the kennels are empty... in fact, Zero can see one last frehkee's trotting hindquarters rounding the corner into the barn. Following that one, Zero is in the dark, quiet, high-ceilinged, many-stalled barn. Freyja's not immediately obvious; there's just the sounds of quiet snuffling and crunching of chewing slaypneer, and the occasional whimper accompanying sniffles. What is obvious is the circle of mournful looking frehkees sitting and standing around one area in the dark barn. As Zero enters, they all turn their heads, almost as one, to look at him.

A shaggy head as long as Zero's torso sticks out curiously from one stall as well, snorting softly at him and chewing on some plant thing... then it retreats indifferently back into the stall.

Zero suppresses a brief cold shiver at the sudden interest the dogs show in him. Gah..! Gonna have a flashback at this rate... He looks at the closest dog, "I don't suppose you've seen Freyja.'

Freyja hastily uses a hankie to stop her sniffles, rubs the ears of the nearest frehkee to calm his sympathetic whimper, and murmurs quietly, "Hey, Zero. Sorry about... my temper tantrum. Is Vakkal all right?" Her voice comes from the darkened corner the frehkees are all clustered around.

Zero says, "Oh... there you are. I don't know where Vakkal is but the Master's with him by now, so... he's fine. How are you?"

Freyja sighs softly, "I... feel stupid." She pushes a frehkee gently off the hay bale she's sitting on, "Want to come sit?" and shifts over.

Zero nods, "Sure." He sits down carefully next to Freyja, "Stupid? Because the Senator's a vengeful little man? I can't see how that's your fault..."

As Zero's eyes adjust to the darkness, he notes the frehkees are at eye level with Zero when he's seated. While they seem quiet and polite next to Freyja -- one neatly puts his head in her lap, rolling his eyes up at her, and she automatically starts gently rubbing his ears -- some of the others do seem to be giving Zero... calculating looks. Their eyes gleam a phosphorescent green when they catch the light. Freyja sighs, leaning against Zero, "Oh, neh, he's not a nice person, I understand that now. I just... can't believe I let my father's prejudices tweak me quite so easily again." Her tone gets rueful, "He called one young man I brought home a Neandertal... and was affronted when I told him to cut it out. You'd think I'd be used to it by now..."

Zero gingerly curls his arm around Freyja's shoulders. He shakes his head. "I should have seen this coming. I don't know how Kalatis found-- no, forget it, I do know... Khoud had to know. But it's his style to turn the knife whenever he can... the sniveling little Rodian desk rider. I should have tried to warn you something like this would happen."

Zero can hear the quiet smile in Freyja's voice, "You would have warned me? That's nice. Thank you, Zero." She's silent for a long while, long enough that the outermost ring of frehkees start wandering away on interesting canid side journies now that their friend isn't unhappy any more... then she says quietly, "I... really need to be careful, don't I. Vakkal only has us here. I can't afford to let my irritation with Father harm Vakkal, however indirectly."

Zero says, "Would have... I should have. I should have known the little worm would do something like that."

Zero says, "But.. you don't need to worry about Vakkal. The Master's taking care of him... he's going to make sure nothing happens to Vakkal... and I'm gonna be there tomorrow for Magnussen's little 'test'. I don't trust anyone right now... I have another one of my feelings. I'm going to make sure everyone stays safe."

Freyja hugs Zero gently with her free arm, murmuring, "It's all right, Zero... I appreciate the intent, believe me." She continues gently skritching the frehkee's ears, and it gives a contented groan as she nods, "Hai, I'm wondering if I should be there too. I don't know... I haven't had a chance to evaluate how things stand right now amongst the huskarls, but I want to show confidence in Vakkal too. He doesn't need me playing 'mommy' to him, however accidentally or well-meaning, in the eyes of the other huskarls." She adds almost sadly, "Don't trust anyone... I wish... I wish I didn't feel that way too, in my own home...

"Well... home is where one makes it, I guess. Here..." she falls silent, then says in a very small voice, "I... don't think here is home... any more..." She rubs her eyes quietly and tries to suppress sniffles again. She whispers, "Sorry..."

Zero says, "It's not your fault, Freyja. This is..." He takes a deep breath. "...it's the War." He murmurs, "Just forget about it now... just... let it go. For tonight. It's okay. It's okay."

Freyja rubs her eyes again, then nods silently and turns to lean her head against Zero's shoulder. If he lets her, she'll sit that way for a long, quiet time, letting her tumultuous thoughts drift and slowly settle, like autumn leaves after a short storm.

The next day dawns. Freyja's parents are notably absent from breakfast, a message being left for her and the others by the majordomo noting that they are addressing a surprise audit of their books which apparently was issued early that morning by the Balmorran Chamber of Commerce. Despite Baron Rigg's protestations that everything was more than in order, the Cytellar books should be used at the University of Coruscant as prime examples of how corporate ledgers should be kept, Baroness Erde has convinced him that one more time going over them would not be at all uncalled-for.

This is also the morning where Vakkal will be tested by Magnussen, a time-honored tradition which, apparently, has taken on somewhat less than pleasant overtones for the two Jedi.

Freyja speaks with Vakkal for a few moments in her suite, after she's dressed and shooed all the servants, "Vakkal, I am sorry for my, ah... scene after dinner last night. If it helps any, I meant what I said and will stand by it... but I'll try to do it with a bit less... histrionics next time." She takes a breath, straightening her coat and running her fingers through her hair -- and unwittingly making it all stand up in a way that would horrify her mother -- then adds with a sigh, "Magnussen's going to be in a bad mood, and I'm sure all the other huskarls and sapients-at-arms that can make it will be there to observe as well... so I'll ask you. Would you like me there, or neh?" She wonders a bit curiously, with the hindsight of a good night's sleep, if what she considers histrionics a Sith would consider a nice way of showing you care. Interesting thought... for later.

Vakkal arches an eyebrow. "There is no need to apologize. If you wish to be there, I will not complain, Freyja, and Zero's presence will not be unwelcome. But... why would Kuras Magnussen be in a bad mood?"

Freyja is faintly relieved to hear Vakkal's not aghast at her. She smiles a touch ruefully, "Uhm... well, Kuras Magnussen is the head huskarl, and sometimes head huskarls technically should vet any new huskarl before they're accepted. I imagine Father would do so... but neither Syffy nor I have, because we were far from home at the time." She pauses, then says, "Well... I think she was... anyway. That, coupled with the possibly unintended slight of the Mandralorian here, and the fact that he's one of Father's oldest and most faithful retainers... um... well, have you noticed that often when a lord is generally peeved, his retainers are too, even if they're not sure precisely why?" She adds dryly, "And Father's always peeved when I'm home. Eventually."

Vakkal nods slowly. "I... have noticed that," he says dryly. "I will remember that. Thank you, Freyja."

Freyja tilts her head curiously at Vakkal, "Thank me? For what, Vakkal?"

The canid Sith smiles quietly, "For the warning as to Magnussen's ill mood."

She gets a rueful look, but just nods amusedly and strides out swiftly with Vakkal for the dojo. She murmurs quietly as they walk, "Do apprentices measure themselves against each other too? Like a pecking order in a pack, so to speak?"

Vakkal makes a thoughtful sound. "Not always, unless there are many together, which is only found on a world and in a place where many lords congregate. Perhaps elsewhere, as well. I was with Lord Ghang before Fhazil came into Ghang's service, but we considered each other brothers. Derga Volc, though he came not long after, was never that to either of us. I cannot explain clearly why, but perhaps it was for the best that he was not."

Freyja nods again, satisfied by that explanation that Vakkal understands the significance of everyone that can make it being there to see Magnussen test the flakey older daughter's choice of huskarl. Vakkal can see her pull on the persona of aristoi as they near the dojo, in fact... her head is carried high, her face gets impassive, and her stride changes to the firm, heel-clicking pace of the cavalry-rider afoot. She doesn't know better how to demonstrate more clearly her absolute confidence in Vakkal, but she'll do the best she can with what she has.

Predictably enough, the vast majority of the Haus Rigg huskarls and armsbearers are gathered in the dojo already, most performing morning exercises, others clearly awaiting what is to come. As Vakkal and the others arrive, they grow quiet, and draw to the sides of the room, leaving the center clear. Magnussen would certainly not stare down a Wookiee. He barely comes up to Freyja's ears, but the man seems almost as broad as he is tall. Like most Balmorran humans, his hair is a pale blonde, but his eyes are the green of a blaster rifle's shot. He nods politely. "Milady Freyja, welcome back to Balmorra," he says, only a hint of Piper's brogue in his voice. He looks at the canid. "Vakkal, I presume?" At Vakkal's acknowledgement, again those eyes turn to Freyja. "With your permission, Milady?"

Zero remains still as the others draw back, standing just ahead of the edge of the crowd with arms folded, having last night discarded his formal jacket for the close-fitting white shirt he always wears. He stands with arms folded, dark violet eyes noticeable all the way across the dojo as Freyja enters; she can see him firmly watching Magnussen, appraising.

Freyja nods politely in return to her father's huskarl. She waits for the introductions, then nods once again. Her voice is crisp, "Of course." She withdraws to stand, arms folded and face impassive, next to Zero. If anyone would recognize foul play -- and be someone she trusted to let her know it had occurred -- it'd be him. She is also quite aware of the symbolic significance of where she's standing.

Zero murmurs, "I've been casing out your father's armsbearers. But Magnussen's been carefully concealing his style." He adds, as an afterthought, "He's good."

Magnussen nods, and steps back, gesturing Vakkal forward. "Vakkal, before you may become one of the Haus Rigg huskarli, you must face me. I cannot trust a man whose mettle I do not know, and you must learn what will be expected of you in the training to come. Choose a practice baton, and we will begin."

Vakkal nods, and moves to the rack of practice swords. They are little more than polymer bars with insulated handles, and a small field generator along the length which should -- in theory -- cushion any hard blows, keeping bones from breaking. There is a restless air in the dojo as Vakkal considers his choices, some grins, some levity, and seemingly nothing out of place in a room full of soldiers about to see two more soldiers whallop one other.

Once Vakkal seems to have chosen a practice weapon, Magnussen brandishes his own. "Are you ready, Kuras Vakkal?"

Freyja nods silently at Zero's words, her gaze quietly scanning the edges of the room to pick up on general mood. She knows Zero will be watching the two men in the center of the room -- and better understand what's occurring there than she.

Vakkal nods, testing the balance of the straight practice sword. Freyja can see a bit of a smile on his muzzle, and an odd light in his eyes. "I believe I am ready, Kuras Magnussen."

The burly Balmorran nods. "Then defend yourself!" and with that and nothing more he all but leaps at the canid with a downward-arcing slash, trusting (or perhaps not) that either Vakkal will be skilled enough to evade the blow or that the buffer field will keep the canid from being too badly hurt.

Neither occurs. Vakkal does sidestep the crushing swipe, but catches the other's sword on his own, flowing with the movement and then casting it into a wierdly, brutally elegant riposte that should be impossible for cutting weapons. Magnussen wasn't expecting that, it's clear, but he recovers quickly, and he blocks the riposte.

What they do next is anything but pretty. This is not the drama of an elegant sword-dance with lightsabres, it is nothing less than a sword-fight. It is quickly clear that any niceties and politeness went out as soon as the fight began. Magnussen tests the mettle of every huskarl, and this is the tried and true method of doing that.

Zero continues to murmur quietly, "The rank and file were eager to show off to a Jedi. Who better to mediate a practice match? Easy to identify their styles... but Magnussen's been pulling his blows, keeping his cards close to his chest. I think he knows I'm watching him." He keeps up a very soft running commentary as the fight starts. "See there... reverse arc. And again. All speed, all power. Vakkal can-- yes, there. Control of the blade. He's guiding it back... there."

Freyja's face is carefully schooled to impassivity -- but it's a fight for her to do so. The chirurgeon within her is wincing repeatedly -- that must hurt! -- but she won't get in the way of Vakkal's making his own way here. It's something he'd want to do on his own. Instead, as much as possible, she listens intently to Zero's quietly informative running commentary, and watches the faces of those around the room, judging the bout by their expressions, cries of encouragement, groans of disappointment, and wincing at the louder *crack*!s of the batons.

Typically, Magnussen beats down any new huskarl, then teaches them exactly what they did wrong and what they can -- no, must do to improve. Except it's not working out as he had intended, it seems.

The fight -- it can't be called a "duel" or even a mere "test" any more, by any stretch of the imagination -- gets more and more heated. Magnussen has a short, quick, hard style that seems to have eschewed any pattern whatsoever. His goal is apparently to fight and nothing more, and to finish a bout quickly. Vakkal, for his part, has an almost predatory manner about his fighting, subtly probing even as he counterattacks, striking quickly and drawing back equally quickly to gauge the effects of each attack, and doing it quicker and quicker as he starts to more fully take Magnussen's measure.

Both men are clearly into it, and Magnussen holds nothing back. But Freyja and Zero can see the old light in Vakkal's eyes. A faintly queasy feeling wells up in their guts, and those with eyes awakened to the Force can see that Vakkal, too, is starting to not restrain himself. And the other armsbearers are noticing something as well, with growing discomfit.

Freyja takes a slow breath, looking at Zero and whispering, "Do you feel it?" A moment later she whispers unhappily, "I... Zero, I won't know when to stop it -- or even if I should! Can you tell?"

Zero grins to himself. "Vakkal's finessing him. This style is alien to Magnussen. You can see it, he's groping now, looking to end the fight as fast as he can. He's looking for an out..." He catches his breath, suddenly sensing it. "Gods below!" He narrows his eyes, watching, "I'll do it, Freyja. Just... be ready to calm these men if something should happen. We'll let Vakkal rein himself in if he can... if not, I'll take him."

Freyja says softly, "Neh, Zero... I should call hold. Tell me when, please." She takes a deep breath, preparing herself. Magnussen is not going to be happy about this. She can tell also the others present here are tense, even if they cannot yet tell precisely why... or why this test is taking so long. Usually the head huskarl has the new guy on the floor in less than seven seconds. On the other hand... usually the new huskarl isn't a Force awakened, battle-tempered warrior either.

Zero says, "He might not do it, Freyja... if he loses control, promise me you'll let me handle it. If he accidentally hurts me, that's fine. If he accidentally hurts you, it'll all be over for all of us. Keep watch; I'm going to circle to the other side so I can stay on Magnussen's off side... just in case he does something foolish like cheat, that might set Vakkal off."

Freyja quickly puts out a hand, "Neh, Zero, please don't leave! I need you to tell me when to call hold -- I'm not good enough to tell! Circle around then if you need -- but not until then, please?" She keeps her voice carefully down and her face stays impassive -- but she closes her fingers on Zero's shirt. He can pull away if he wants, but she really wants him to stay.

Zero says, "I'll signal you from--" He pauses... then places his hand over hers. "Alright. Watch closely now... and wait for me to signal you.""

Freyja adds ruefully, "Magnussen's never lost. He won't want to stop until he wins... and he's going to lose at this rate, and that would be bad." She looks relieved for a second, then nods, watching the bout now.

Suddenly there is one misstep, one wrong move. Vakkal's practice sword draws back, then down and accross in a slash too quick to dodge -- and Magnussen is thrown off his feet with a startled roar, falling heavily to the padded floor of the dojo.

One of the armsbearers, glowering, is already moving at that point and rushes forward, a stun-baton raised as if to rein in Vakkal. What happens next seems to happen in blurred slow motion, too fast to stop: the Sith whirls around, and seems to throw an open-handed strike into the armsbearers' solar plexus. That is all that any of the other armsbearers will later say that they saw. But the two padawans can see that Vakkal doesn't quite touch the other, and a slight, neutral surge in the Force tells Freyja and Zero all they need to know of what happens next.

The armsbearer is thrown even further away than Magnussen was, and with a flourish Vakkal whirls the sword about his head, and brings it smartly to rest at his side, looking leavily at Mangussen as he stands, the mad light of Sith battlemind leaving his eyes quickly, evaporating into nothing in mere moments.

Zero says, "Stop! That's enough!"

Freyja pulls the Force around her in startled preparation when she feels that surge, although she's not sure what she was preparing for -- and she strides into the center of the dojo, saying firmly in the echoing room, "Hold."

Zero makes straight for Vakkal, trying his best not to glower.

Freyja stares at the fallen armsbearer for a second, disdain on her face... then turns to Magnussen, crossing her arms, "Huskarl Magnussen, what is your decision?" Her back is to Vakkal -- she's obviously not worried about him striking her.

Vakkal is absolutely motionless at Zero's cry, but his shout does stop several other armsbearers who were about to charge forward. They all stiffen at Freyja's command, but they are already holding. Magnussen grunts a bit, as he pushes himself up from the floor. "Next man who tries to do something gets my foot in their face!" he rumbles in warning, though Zero's call has already stopped anyone from trying anything.

Freyja nods slightly to herself, pleased at Magnussen's response. She waits silently.

Zero keeps to Vakkal's side and slightly behind, just in case... and he keeps his level gaze on the men-at-arms circling them, meeting each one's eyes in turn, just to gauge their intent. The unspoken challenge in his expression is, 'Fight's over; You come through me first.'

Magnussenn shakes his head as if to clear it, looking up at Freyja as he catches his breath. The Balmorran is smiling merrily. "Merciful Balder!" he exclaims with a laugh. "No whelp did thot tae me wit'out a' least a season's trainin'. Milady Freyja, ye've got y'rself a right terror, y' do." He pulls himself up, nodding to Vakkal and managing to regain some of his breath. "Damn fine work, Huskarl. Damn fine! I don't know how you did it, but I'm more'n satisfied." He leans over a little, glancing at the armsbearer who's pulling himself up from the floor beyond. "You! Sharvult! Ye're on report, f'r that stunt! Y' know the rules o' th' squall."

That, at least, seems to break the tension, and the other huskarls and men-at-arms gather around the two, helping Magnussen up and congratulating Vakkal. The tension in the air has been replaced by something much lighter.

Zero blows out a breath. Thank all the gods that are. I'm getting antsy in my old age. He takes a step back and fades back into the crowd a little, letting Vakkal have his moment.

Freyja smiles quietly... and withdraws gracefully. Magnussen has impressed her today. She's both pleased and relieved, and wants Vakkal to be able to enjoy the respect he's rightfully earned.

The day passes, and sometime in the afternoon Lord Kul and his Mandalorian shadow make their farewells, Kul being very apologetic about not being able to attend the formal dinner welcoming Freyja home.

Vakkal is receiving some instruction in being a new huskarl from Magnussen and the others; the curriculum at this time does not include imbibing any amounts of intoxicants, large or small, but did include a private ceremony and toast with the traditional salute, "For Honor, for Loyalty; by Balder, for Haus Rigg!"

Freyja is tremendously pleased and proud of Vakkal, and very happy to participate in that ceremony.

Roakkana and Zero have managed to chase off any clothiers that try to attend to them -- Roakkana with the calm and amused explaination that anything they could possibly squeeze into him would result in one Hells of a musky scent, oh, didn't you know that's why Wookiees don't wear any clothing, but if you really insist.... The issue is not pressed with him. For Zero it takes a little convincing that what he wears is really all that is considered "formal attire" on Sedrak. The clothiers accept the explaination, but reluctantly; Zero has a much harder time convincing them than Roakkana did.

It is mid-afternoon when Piper knocks on Freyja's door. "'Ey, Freyja... 'ow're ye doin'?"

Freyja mutters grouchily at Piper's knock, "I'm still alive... just." She tries not to glare at the gaggle of people attending her -- or twitch. That'd be... bad -- they'd have to start all over!

Piper smiles a little. Even though she won't be at the dinner herself, she's in the dress uniform of Haus Rigg retainers. "Ye'll nae be feelin' th' dress soon enough, I'd wager. Er. Ye're father'd like tae see ye in 'is study after ye'r t'rough bein' pok'd and prodd'd intae thot dress."

Freyja rolls her eyes and groans... then just sighs, "Got it." She glances at Piper a bit suspiciously, "Do you know what about?"

Piper shakes her head. "Nae, but 'e's been aul sob'r an' close-lipped abaet all th' morn, since afore th' audit notice came."

A tall, elegant woman paces lithely by; that poised, fluid walk could melt an iceberg. Jeweled, belled bracelets jingle softly on slender wrists and ankles; sparkling golden coins sway, mesmerizing as the silken fringe on the richly ornamented sash accentuating the tantalizing sway of supple hips. Swirling henna patterns are painted on feet and hands, highlighted by glittering, delicate gold toe- and finger-rings. Intricately wrought jewelry rivals sumptuous, glossy embroidery on her long, shimmering, silk outer coat and trousers. A luxurious velvet turban is offset with opulent golden pins and sweet-scented garlands of brilliant, beautiful blooms swirling in iridescent loops over slender shoulders. Strong makeup on the carefully impassive face richly defines gleaming lips; adds a refined paleness to high cheekbones -- and luminously outlines familiar but empty ice-blue eyes. Under all that gorgeous, heavy finery... is a mind-numbingly bored Freyja.

Freyja sighs, "All right. Thank you for the warning."

Piper nods, smiling encouragingly, before stepping back out.

A few minutes later, there is the clacking of dress boots outside Zero's door, followed by a light knock. "Pad'wan Satau?" Piper asks. "'Tis me, Piper Ridomr, come tae check up on ye an' Master Roakkana afore th' dinner?"

Piper is greeted first by a cry, muffled by the door, of "Hey!!" There's a silence of a second, perhaps a bit less, then a sudden strangled yelp; someone besides Zero doing the yelping.

Piper blinks, then does a quick comparison of 'risk of terminal embarrassment' to 'duty as a retainer,' and decides, of course, on the latter. "'Ey, Zero? What's wrong...?" She tries the door, opening it quickly to poke her head in and see if there's anything she needs to call the huskarli for.

The door is open and slides obligingly out of the way. Having opted for the latter, the dutiful retainer is met with a sight that has all the makings of the former. A soaked and dripping and nearly nude Zero Satau is standing in the middle of the room, trying with only limited success to keep a towel over the front of his pelvis with one hand, and locking the wrist of a horrified looking page with the other. The page seems to have laid one of Zero's black cases on the bed and was halfway through opening the latches.

Zero's eyes widen as he spots Piper; blanching even more than he usually is, he realized his mistake and declares to the page, strained, "That is not luggage!"

Piper blinks. She at least has the good grace to blush. A little. "Erm. Ah, heh. Lad," she says to the page. "Why doan ye' leave K'ras Satau aboot 'is own clothin'ry, aye? Heh. Thot's right, I'm thinkin' thot Kuras Mand'lbrot'll be needin' some 'elp f'r tae be prep'in' th' rooms af'r th' guests who're tae be stayin' th' evenin', aye? Hee...."

With much haste, the page extracts himself from Zero's grip and is out the door and past Piper.

Zero releases the page and scrambles to cover the rest of his lower body. "Uh," is all that he can get himself to say, "Uh. Piper. Hello."

Piper is smiling now, impishly, and -- rather stridently -- not looking down below Zero's chin. "'Ello, Zero. I'm thinkin' thot ye'd rather be 'avin' yon cases in yer own possession, rath'r than in th' 'ouse safe, aye?"

Zero finds with some discomfort it's suddenly cold in here. He straightens up in what he hopes is a more dignified posture... but he can't help watching Piper's eyes to see which of his scars or slugthrower holes she's looking at. Despite being in remarkable shape for someone so slight and wiry and of his age, he suddenly feels rather like damaged goods on display.

Zero clears his throat, "Er, yes! Yes, thank you, Piper, I... was afraid the page might hurt himself." He adds sheepishly, "...which would make it ironic if I'd accidentally dislocated his wrist just now..."

Her grin, or smile, expression doesn't change one whit, as she nods, stretching her hands behind her back a little. "Aye, thot it would, wouldnae it? I'm thinkin' th' page'll be aul right, if'n a wee bit startled oot o' 'is keester." She ohs! and adds, "'Twas comin' up tae ye and Mast'r Roakkana's tae see if'n ye'll be 'avin' alla ye need afore supper t'night...."

Zero says, "Oh, er... yeah, yes, of course, thank you, Piper... I'll be right up after I, uh..." He looks around, as if he'd mislaid something, "Put on my pants.""

Piper glances around casually. That smile will not go away, though she seems to be trying. "Oh, thot I c'n be seein'. 'Twould be 'ard enough tae be walkin' aroun' wi'oot such. Would ye be needin' any 'elp wit' findin' ye're clothin', lad?"

Zero says, "Uh, actually there is one thing you could do for me."

Piper looks to Zero. "Mmmm? Oh! Aye, some privvacy, aye!" She grins sheepishly. "Sorry, lad. I'm 'opin' thot ye dinnae mind me, jus' enjoyin' m'self a little." She nods definitively. "I'll be leavin' ye t' yer pants! Be seein' ye afore th' dinner!" She doesn't quite let her gaze drop down Zero, before catching herself, flashing him a grin, and ducking herself back out of the room.

Zero says, "Uh, actually... I was just going to ask if you'd close the door. I'm, um... getting a draft."

There is a pause, and Piper's head pokes back in. "Oh! A draft? Ah, I think I see." She grins sheepishly, maintaining a decorus level of her eyesight, as she slips back in and lets the door shut. She leans against the wall beside it. "'Ave ye ever been tae one o' these fancy affairs, Zero?"

Zero fetches another towel from the bathroom and sits down on the edge of the bed, carefully drying his hair. "Can't say that I have. I've been breathing air fairly well beyond my salary these past few weeks."

Piper nods, letting herself become a little more relaxed now that Zero is apparently decorous. "Aye, I guess 'tis an 'ard t'ing tae get used tae. M'self, I was baern tae this, or at least tae famil'ar'ty wit' it. Growin' up wit' Frey an' Syf... 'twas a verra in'trestin' time, but I dinnae ken wha' life mightae bin lahk ootside th' estate, 'till m' Pa let me go tae Commenor onna m' own f'r m' sixteenth."

Zero grins, beginning to towel off the rest of his upper body after his hair is dry to his satisfaction. "I didn't get offworld until I was about fifteen... after the armistice. Heh, I thought I'd seen everything when I got on that freighter."

Piper tilts her head to the side. "Aye, I was readin' aboot Sedrak while I was awaitin' tae be takin ye tae Balmorra. I'm glad thot th' armistice 'eld... an' I'm glad ye got on tae bigg'r an' bett'r t'ings, Zero."

Zero loops the towel around his shoulders, "Honestly? It wasn't hard to hold onto. All that was really necessary was for someone to pipe up and make each side realize that the other wasn't out to stamp out their way of life. We were both just trying to make our way in the galaxy, but... well, you know how things get blown out of proportion when they're down the length of a gun. I may've resented the Jedi for not getting there sooner, when I was young... but in retrospect I'm just glad they did something."

Piper nods a little. "I think I c'n see thot. An ootside body tae be talkin' th' truth tae the combatants. Wish 'ere was one f'r this war wi' th' Sith."

Zero sighs and stands up, drying off his legs. "I don't know that it'd be that easy. The Fifteen Year War started because of a misunderstanding. This war... there's no misunderstanding. We know exactly where we stand: The Sith want our planets and our homes for their Empire. They don't want to peacefully coexist with us. They're not colonists and farmers. On Sedrak, we were finally able to explain that we just wanted to live there. The Sith don't want to live here. They want to rule."

In keeping with the lack of levity in the subject matter, Piper is not terribly distracted while Zero drys himself. Though it takes a moment for her to respond. "Aye, ye 'ave a point there, Zero. Well, 'ere's 'opin' thot th' 'Public an' their Guard an' the Jedi an' all can 'ave a chance tae keep th' Sith from our doorstep, 'ey?"

Zero finishes drying himself off. Forgetting himself for the moment, he grins, "As long as I've got anything to do with it we will." He doesn't realize until well after the fact that he threw his towel aside and went about finally putting on his pants without a thought. He pauses for a moment, then continues to dress himself... albeit somewhat paler once again.

Zero internally curses. Bloody graceful, that was, O mighty Jedi... so much for bravado."

By the time he turns back to Piper, the Balmorran has a rather wide, cheerful smile, though her gaze is very carefully, again, back up above his chin. "Oh, of thot I've nae doubt, Zero." She tilts her head to the side. "Well, I've got tae be off'n on m' oth'r errands, I fear. But if'n ye 'ave any time later, I'll be aroun' th' manse, and wouldna mind stoppin' f'r a few if'n ye're so inclined."

Zero clears his throat. "Uh... sure, I'd like that. I'll probably be right back here after the dinner... I'm no good with formal events, never was good at making small talk. Maybe I'll see you then."

Piper smiles. "Neither 'm I, much tae th' chagrin o' m' Pa. Be seein' ye, Satau, an' enjoy th' dinner!" A moment later, Piper has slipped out and the door clicks shut behind her.

Zero blows out a long breath, and collapses onto the bed.

Freyja is finally painted, decorated, beribboned, dressed, powdered, and garlanded to the satisfaction of her mother's servants. She sighs lugubriously, then lets Vakkal know she's ready, and heads down to her father's study for whatever this meeting is about. Serenity... always serenity...

Vakkal blinks at Freyja, and it takes him a few moments to realize that yes, that is indeed Freyja. He nods quickly when he realizes it, and walks discretely behind her. He carries the traditional huskarl vibroblade at his side, more for ceremonial use than anything, and a slightly more discrete sporting blaster.

At her knock on the door, Forsetti Rigg's voice comes from within: "Come in, daughter."

Freyja gives Vakkal a faintly rueful smile at his momentary disorientation -- she feels that way frequently at formal events here. Later, at her father's bidding, she enters quietly when Vakkal opens the door for her. She salutes and nods politely, then settles gracefully on a cushion across from his, and says formally, "Honored Father. Kuras Piper told me you wished to speak with me before the dinner?"

Forsetti is seated at his large desk, and only glances up to Freyja. "Yes, I did, daughter." From where she is standing, Freyja can see that the several screens on book- and scroll-covered desk show financial records for Haus Rigg and Cyteller Automaton, as well as tracking market trends for Balmorra Sector.

He speaks with little more preamble. "Shortly, you will be undertaking a very great duty for Haus Rigg and your family. I do not think I expressed myself well enough last night, but your mother and I... discussed it at length before deciding to betroth you now. Do not take that, please, to mean that there was ever any doubt you would be the inheritor. You know the duties all members of our family must undertake, each in our own way. Even Syf will, someday."

Freyja murmurs quietly, "Of course, Father." She wonders what this is leading up to... somehow she's sure it's not going to be pleasant -- for either of them.

He nods quietly. "Good. That was all I needed to say for the nonce." He turns back to the screens. "I will see you again before dinner. There is yet but a few more things which the auditors, blind as they are, need explained to them in words of two syllables and less."

Freyja nods silently, rising to depart, "Certainly, Father." She's a bit bemused -- this is the oddest meeting she's ever had with him. What was this all about? She will leave slowly, since she's not sure if he's finished speaking with her or not... that will give him time to call her back if so.

"Freyja...."

She pauses, looking up inquiringly.

Without turning, the Baron Rigg continues to page through the ledger on his screen, but he doesn't seem to be looking at it. "A few arrangements had to have been made, because of the number of guests tonight. I hope Huskarl Vakkal feels up to standing guard over you during formal dinner tonight, as is custom. It can be a somewhat intimidating experience to new huskarls. You may wish to warn him. I'm sure you know how these functions can be. But Magnussen feels he is capable, and more. He believes a better huskarl you could not have chosen." He pauses. "I have striven to instil in you the qualities of leadership which have stood the family in good stead throughout the many years. If by those qualities you feel that he is your huskarl for troth, then let it be so, no matter his prior alleigance." He rouses himself, harrumphs a little, and returns his attention to the books. "This need not ever leave this room. No matter Senator Kalatis's reasons for informing us of it, they matter not if you have chosen him as your huskarl and bodyguard. I will see you and Mother at dinner. I shan't be late."

Freyja stands silently for a moment, studying her father in perplexity. He's being... nice?! Was that a compliment?! She examines the statement cautiously... then realizes with some astonishment that it does indeed to be so! Her voice is carefully modulated as she says carefully, "I do believe Vakkal is indeed the right person for the job... and thank you, honored Father, for your faith in my decision."

Rigg pauses just long enough to glance over to Freyja, and give but the ghost of a smile. "If nothing else, I'll not have any man impunge the ability of my daughter to choose whom she places trust with her life in." He nods a little. "Your mother is waiting, as is Master Roakkana and Padawan Satau, I believe."

Freyja's face remains impassive, although her eyes are a bit startled still as she bows politely and withdraws. She looks faintly bemused as she walks out the door and past Vakkal, with a polite nod... although that fades rapidly away also as she is once more in public. She wonders with very dry amusement what her father would think of Fhazil Taas, and thinks of Zero -- the other two men who she'll be entrusting her life too, even if mutually.

She quietly murmurs the question to Vakkal as she paces towards the dining area -- her father wishes her to be sure that Vakkal feels up to handling a formal affair so soon?

Vakkal blinks in surprise, and nods quietly, "I will do my best. On the chance that I would be needed, Kuras Magnussen instructed me in what I would need to do. I am ready."

Freyja nods, "I thought that would be the case, but Father wished me to ask."

Zero meets Roakkana outside in the hallway. Roakkana is wearing... his baldric. As usual. It seems to amuse him to no end. "One advantage of being a Jedi," he says wryly to Zero, "is that the robes of the Order are always appropriate, no matter the situation. You look good, actually, Zero. Austere, somber, dramatic. You may start a new trend."

Zero smirks a little, adjusting his cuffs again. "Thanks, Master. You look good yourself. Brown, dun, earth-tone. Very conservative. And that's saying a lot for someone that doesn't wear pants."

Roakkana chuckles quietly, stepping to the side as a number of women dressed to the nines in formal Balmorran Human costume, glimmering and glittering with sparkling jewels and brocade, walk through the hall. One or two cast curious glances through heavilly made-up faces at Zero when he says that to the Wookiee. "Suggestions that I wear more are usually a bad idea," Roakkana says. "If not the threat of musky scent that no air-fresheners will ever be able to overcome, it's the threat of involuntary shedding, or giving the housepets some sort of mange. You might be surprised at how much we fully-furred races can get away with as far as dress codes go."

Zero grins, "You know, I'd never thought it'd be an advantage." He laughs quietly. "That must be why you're the Master."

Another bevy of porcelain-doll-beauty women saunter by in the opposite direction, one or two senior house retainers and retainers from other cantons in escort to them. They do seem intrigued by the presence of a Wookiee, particularly one in the colors of the Jedi Order, and Roakkana smiles, inclining his head politely in greeting as the smile and nod to him, onr or two of the women eyeing Zero in his relatively sober outfit, as compared to the sometimes gaudy costumes the males are wearing.

Roakkana murmurs quietly to Zero as the Humans sashay by, "If only it were as simple as realizing you don't have to go through life wearing any clothes at all...."

Zero offers the passers-by a smile and a nod, and his funny little wave-off-the-temple salute, then snorts as the Master bestows a little piece of enlightenment on him. He looks up at the Wookiee and grins, "I may take a few days to crack that koan, Master."

Roakkana grins at Zero's reply. "Take as long as you need, Zero, but I don't recommend you explore any truths behind it during our stay on Balmorra."

From the opposite direction comes another group of the heavilly-made-up, glittereing and bejeweled, finery-bedecked, turbaned women. The only thing marking this grouping of seven, aside from the gently swaying walk that casts almost hypnotic patterns of light from brocade that seems embroidered just for that purpose... is that Vakkal, heroically trying to not look lost, and three other huskarls are trailing along not far behind.

Zero grins, "At least not in public, hey?" He leans forward a bit from where he leans on the wall, "Hey, there's Vakkal. Where's Freyja? I don't see her."

Roakkana blinks a bit. "So it is," he muses. "I... hmmm. I can't imagine he'd be too far from her...'

One of the women turns her head, golden ornamentation shimmering and swaying along her brow. She raises a graceful eyebrow at Zero's comment, the corners of her lips turning up slightly, then murmurs, "Excuse me, Mother, I will join you in a moment." She steps aside, waiting until the other women have passed by to put one hand on her hip, "And what's that supposed to mean? Master Roakkana, are you teasing Zero?"

Zero just... blinks. "Gods below," he murmurs, "Freyja?"

Freyja tilts her head amusedly, "Hai. What? Is something on crooked?"

Roakkana manages to look innocent. "Who, I? I assure you, child, you're most unrecognizable."

Zero says, "Crooked? No, just the... the opposite."

Freyja brushes one slender hand lightly along Zero's shoulder, then straightens his collar, "You look nice." She glances at the Wookie and sighs, a little enviously, then just smiles and shakes her head, "I evny you the coat of fur, Master." She smiles at Zero a bit puzzledly, the makeup around her eyes shimmering slightly, "Pardon?"

Zero says, "Thank you. You look... fantastic."

Roakkana chuckles softly. "Oddly enough, I was just explaining to Zero the advantages that Wookiees have in these situations...."

Freyja blinks, looking back at Zero... then gets a rather pleased expression, "Really? That... thank you, I'd like to think that." A bit dryly she adds, "I'd hate to have spend the last four hours to end up looking the fool, like usual." She considers a moment, then looks hopefully at Vakkal and Roakkana, "Do you think I look all right also?"

Roakkana and Vakkal both exchange looks. "You are asking the entirely wrong species, child," Roakkana says merrily. "Though from what I understand of Humans, yes, you do look perfectly well."

Freyja brightens noticeably, causing several golden bangles to jingle tunefully, "How... very nice! Maybe this is the start of something new for me." She grins, "Hey, it seems to work across species for my sister -- why not for me also?" Her voice gets soft as she adds marvelingly, "Do you know, Father was actually complimentary earlier? Not backhandedly, either?"

Roakkana arches an eyebrow. "I almost fear for the rest of the evening...."

Zero says, "Wow, is the sky falling?"

Freyja grins cheerfully, the makeup making her lips gleam richly, "Don't be like that, Master Roakkana... don't want to jinx it!" She tucks an arm through Zero's, and the heady scent of flowers and some slightly spicy scent drifts to him as she adds happily, "Shall we go down for dinner, then? It would be lovely if it wasn't desperately boring."

Zero grins and pats Freyja's hand. "We can only hope. Let's have at it."

A formal dinner of Haus Rigg is an elaborate affair, and it neither begins nor ends with the dinner itself.

The guests arrive at just about sundown, a bewildering panoply of colors and costumes -- even a few Jedi of the Balmorran chapterhouse, who would seem to be more comfortable contemplating the nature of the Force than being there; they compensate by talking animatedly with Roakkana, though they do try to be polite and not monopolize his time. While mostly Humans attend the Rigg functions, there are a startling variety of other, mostly near-Human, species as well. Duros and Twi'leks and Trandoshans and Rodians are all in attendance, as well as many that are not immediately recognizable -- there is even a single Wookiee wearing a baldric emblazioned in the sector colors of green and red and green, apparently a member of the sector cabinet. She and Roakkana do not spend much time with each other, though they exchange pleasantries at one point, which is actually more blunt and honest and forthcoming than most diplomatic exchanges at these events, as befits the Wookiee culture.

Two hours is devoted to the arrival of guests, before the formal welcome and the serving of the first course. Some are prompt, some attempt to be fashionably late, some try to make some sort of entrance, and others, poor souls, really are running late, though decorum demands that they not show their flusterdness at all.

It is in the first hour of the arrival and Freyja, like most members of Haus Rigg, is expected to meander through the reception hall all abuzz with conversation. It is there that an older gentlelady Human manages to nimbly duck through the crowd and approach Freyja. "Milady Freyja?" she asks, smiling and bowing slightly. She is bedecked in the finery of a Balmorran noblelady, though with a slightly lower quality indicating a very highly-trusted retainer. "Lady van Buus, of Haus Jotunsen. It is a pleasure to meet you."

Freyja smiles and nods politely, "Lady van Buus, a pleasure to meet you. I trust you are enjoying the affair?" Freyja is wearing the persona of lady very carefully tonight. She's terrible at chit-chat; knows it and is fighting that personal issue; and is also trying to quash the desperate desire to slip away someplace quiet and dim, so she can meditate in peace.

Van Buus smiles. "I confess that I am not well-suited to the courtly life, having only come into such at a late time in my life, so please forgive me if I am not expressing extremes of joy. I am, however, certainly glad to meet you, at last."

Freyja wonders with a touch of surprise if the Jotunsen party arrived early...? -or neh, more likely this is the seneschal or someone, sent ahead to make sure all's ready for their arrival. At the woman's reply her smile gets a touch still -- she would so like to simply agree fervently and vanish! -but neh. She smiles again, with a graceful nod, "The pleasure is mutual. When do you expect your party to arrive, if I may ask?" She adds with thoughtful inquiry, "'Late in life'...?"

Van Buus makes a wry face. "In two days. My brother-in-law, the Stromvert Jotunsen, was in a rather distant corner of his holdings when news of your arrival came. I daresay my nephew would be pleased enough to have come on his own, but the Stromvert is planning the next best thing to a priority-class convoy...." She shakes her head, chuckling softly. "Forgive me that turn of phrase. It is a leftover from my days as a Guard naval officer. Until five years ago, I was captain of the Ebon Raptor." She grins. "So you can imagine that after several decades of spartan naval life, to come into the courtly arena is... somewhat discomfiting."

Freyja nods with slow amusement... then murmurs quietly, "You... have my sympathies, lady."

The woman grins, and inclines her head. "Thank you, lady. And if you'll allow an old warhawk to say so, my compliments to you, your master, and your fellow Jedi. I do not know what happened on Marnaas, but I'm sure that whatever you had done there, the port authority at the very least should have been thankful."

Freyja wonders curiously why the nephew would want to speed out here. What's he got to look forward to? Formal betrothal to a plain and awkward girl he's never met. Hm. Then again, maybe he's hoping to persuade Syf to be his paramour? It's been known to happen -- she has a distant relative herself who married one brother to stop a war, but actually loved the younger brother. She grins tightly, internally -- if that's his goal, she wishes him... exactly what he deserves for setting his sights on the Balmorran Diamond!

She chuckles quietly, "Thank you, lady... although technically I don't think I did that much except patch people up. I wish I could have done more." She sighs quietly, mentally adding to herself, Well... and put yourself and friends into terrible danger for what you thought was right, and nearly get eaten by a revenant, and get complimented by two Sith lords and your master, and decide to start on a dangerous and possibly treasonous quest in the eyes of the Templars, and... She grins quietly, cutting that distracting line of thought off.

Freyja politely murmurs, "So how is your nephew?" She wishes idly she could afford to trust this woman. She seems sincere enough... still, old lessons are strong for a reason. NEVER trust anyone, at home or in any sort of courtly politics. Trust is for Jedi Masters, sibling Padawans, huskarls... people you believe you can trust at your back -- not for random encounters of nice seeming folks associated with her family.

Van Buus nods. "We all think that, afterwards, after anything, but must console ourselves that we did the very best we could, after all." She smiles quietly. "Lord Fafnir is doing well, actually, thank you for asking. He is understandably nervous, I suspect -- he has spent quite some time at the sector University away from home, and the betrothal took him by surprise."

Oh -- and pets you trained. That's who trust is for... no one else. She nods quietly, although it's more in response to the comment about doing one's best. Her voice is very quiet as she murmurs, "Do your best at what you think is right... and in the end you will never look back in shame..." She sighs quietly, wishing she could go work out in the gym or something... then shakes her head once, "Pardon me, I was wool-gathering. He was surprised? Interesting. I confess I was also. He has my sympathies." She adds a little curiously, "Why is he nervous, if I may ask?"

Van Buus nods quietly at Freyja's quiet words, but makes no further comment on them. "He does not know what to expect. Lord Fafnir has been attending the sector university for the better part of the past ten years. I think he half-expected his life's work to be that of an historian, not the future Stromvalt. I'm told that the first he heard of the betrothal was when one of his classmates congratulated him and berated him for not speaking of it sooner."

Freyja's face goes very still... then she silently nods once. Poor boy... she knows exactly how that feels. Slowly, a bit puzzledly she asks, "But surely... surely he realizes he is the heir? How could he not marry for his family?" She feels even sorrier for the boy now. He wouldn't be able to find much in the way of public holovids of her, she knows... and those he would be able to find, he'd see someone half-hidden in the back, wearing corrective medical gear, with an awkwardly defensive demeanor, who wore clothes like she didn't know what to do with them. She shudders once at what the poor guy must think he's being stuck with, for family duty -- then hastily suppresses that reaction.

Van Buus shakes her head. "There were five other siblings. Fafnir is but the middle-oldest. The eldest, Fasolt, was killed on the front last year. And seven months ago, the oldest daughter, Angrbotha, vowed to avenge Fasolt's death and left Balmorra, forswearing her familial duty and shucking off the name Jotunsen." She is quiet for a moment. "This... is not well-known, but she has not been heard from since, and the Stromvalt's huskarls say she may have been killed on Wayland."

Freyja says softly, "Oh... I'm so sorry, lady." For once, there's actually sincerity in her eyes and tone. She takes a slow breath, and the mask comes up again, shading her emotions away from view.

Van Buus smiles a little. "Thank you, lady. But... my eldest niece made her decision. I only hope that if she did indeed die, she did so honorably and being true to herself. It has driven the Stromvalt even more into seclusion, and this occasion will perhaps be the most public he's been in over ten years."

Freyja nods and murmurs politely, "I trust he will find the occasion pleasant." She debates asking if the young man has seen any holovids of her... then decides that'd be too... eager or searching sounding -- and worse, the answer might be hai. Instead she asks, "I hear the young man is a bit of a fencer?"

That seems to raise van Buus's expression a little. "Oh, yes. He's certainly no Jedi, but he has not been a slouch in his practice, either."

Freyja smiles and nods politely, "Perhaps he'll have a chance to practice here as well, then."

Van Buus smiles a little. "Well. I should perform my own familial duty. Before I continue to mingle, I would like to pass on the Stromvalt's own compliments, and the Lord Fafnir's as well."

Freyja smiles and nods courteously, "You are too kind, lady. Thank you, and my thanks to them as well."

Van Buus smiles and nods, and in a moment disappears into the writhing crowd.

Freyja waits until the lady's departed, the politely interested expression carefully masked onto her face as she looks around. Given a few seconds with no one approaching, she turns towards the wall and lets her artificial persona fall for a moment... she looks weary and exhausted. Then she takes a breath, straightens, and by the time she's turned around again that calm smile is back on her face.

The two hours alloted to mingling and guest arrival is complete. A few guests attempt to make high-profile entrances... "attempt" being the key word, since the majordomo rather neatly intercepts them and foils such plans, such that whomever did attempt it find their efforts for naught. The majordomo now announces dinner, and the guests file into the formal dining hall.

The hall is much more ostentatious than the family dining room from the night before. The piece de resistance of the decoration, though, is the vaulted cieling and the glowlamps hung from it. With the starry motif on the cieling, it doesn't tale Zero long to realize that, between the cieling itself and the lamps, it is a reasonably accurate starchart of the Balmorra Sector. And one lamp, relatively recently-installed, is the small white sun that bathes Sedrak's surface.

Freyja is currently struggling with keeping an expression of polite interest on her face. Her eyes have gotten that distant, frosty-blue bored look, although she doesn't realize it. She's relieved once they're all seated -- that means she can concentrate on eating, and other people will do all the talking. Hm... maybe she can sneak in a bit of meditation too -- that'd be nice.

Zero follows Roakkana into the room, looking up at the holoprojection near the ceiling. "More money than we'll ever see, hey, Master?" he murmurs. "Nice of them to include me in the display, though..."

Freyja relaxes a bit more when a weight settles carefully behind her on the cushion, and a long, narrow head sneaks around into her lap. Stein rolls his eyes up at her hopefully, and there's a quiet thump of his tail once as she smiles down at him. She looks up again, the calmly impassive face on again, so as to not give away Stein's presence... but below the level of the table she starts gently stroking his head. She likes having him there.

Roakkana makes a thoughtful sound. "Indeed. Not that I have ever felt a need for this level of wealth, but I imagine one may live quite comfortably with it... if one did not have matching staggering responsibility." His tone becomes wry. "So of course I became a Jedi: all the responsibility, and none of the material wealth.... Yes, I observed several droids installing the lamp representing Sedrak earlier today."

Seating is typically Balmorran: the main table is V-shaped, and curved slightly, sweeping down the length of the room and outward as if to suggest the prow of a ship cutting through a sea. It is set low, to allow the elaborately-colored hassocks to serve admirably as seating for all the guests. The hall can hold close to two hundred diners; for this affair, the table is seating but half that.

Roakkana and Zero have been accorded a somewhat high honor: while Freyja sits at Forsetti's left hand, Zero is seated next to Roakkana, who himself is just below Freyja.

Freyja's eyes are almost glazed with indifference, but they clear when she realizes who's seated next to her. She smiles at Master Roakkana and Zero, Maybe this won't be too bad...

Zero seats himself carefully. "Going to be a long evening, Master... least the food's smelling good."

It takes another twenty minutes before all the guests are seated according to their place, and idle conversations are taken up. The conversations settle down and die away as Baron Rigg pulls himself up from his seat. "Gentlefolk, thank you all for joining us on this evening to properly welcome my daughter back to her dynasty's home. We also welcome her teacher in the Jedi Order, Master Roakkana of Kashyyyk, and her brother-padawan, Zero Satau of Sedrak." He raises his chalice, oddly curved almost to suggest a mead-horn. "Please join me in toast to her in greeting, for her health and well-being."

Freyja takes a second to react -- she was trying quietly to link up with Zero. The noise and constant movement is a bit distracting for that, unfortunately... so she just smiles and nods politely in salute to the toast.

Zero raises his glass along with the others, and does his best to sit up straight and look respectable.

From accross the table at the Baron's right-hand position, Freyja's mother smiles quietly, raising her own chalice. "Seyla," she says, and in Balmorran custom the other guests likewise raise their drinks, the traditional and cultural response to the toast being an almost rippling rumble in the high-cielinged hall: "Seylah!"

Following the toast, the Baron gestures to the side. "And now, please enjoy the meal!" As he sits, the doors to the kitchen open and houseservants file in, serving the first course of something which Zero has never seen before in his life but which smells more or less pleasingly appetizing. In the corner, a music quintet begin playing some pleasing traditional Balmorran music during the meal.

Freyja continues quietly stroking Stein's head, and goes back to meditation. She'll idly scan the hall; see if anyone's at all Force-alert. If not, she'll try practicing by linking up with Master Roakkana. Mostly... she wants to pass the time looking grave and responsible -- and not actually being there.

Zero concentrates mostly on his food, most of which is of textures and qualities he hadn't known existed, having spent most of his life eating native Sedraki food, which tends toward fairly simple vegetable fare and fish, or Coruscant fast food, which is... a phenomenon unto itself. It's really quite good. He worries a little about the strength of his drink; Gods below this is strong... it's not going to look good at all if I get plastered...

Someone has conveniently provided large-sized chalices for both of the Wookies in attendance, though neither Roakkana nor the cabinetmember imbibe much of the belyingly light, potent, golden, mead-like drink that is wine from Balmorra's moon.

Roakkana glances over to Zero at his reaction to the drink, and smiles quietly. "I should have warned you. Lunae-honey wine is rather potent, in many ways. Remarkably, it can get a cross-section of fifty-seven species rather dramatically 'illuminated' in it's own special way, and has similar effects on a hundred and sixty more."

Zero swallows. "I noticed."

For her part, Freyja does not see anything remarkable through eyes of the Force. Roakkana is like a beacon beside her, and Zero somewhat less of one, and the two Jedi from the Balmorran chapterhouse further down the table are also visible as awakened to the Force. But aside from them, and the faintest of flickers from some people now and then, which is typical in any large group, there is nothing particularly noteworthy... except for the faint flicker of life she manages to detect somewhat higher in the room.

While the huskarls line the walls of the room -- Vakkal stands rather proudly and significantly near the head of the table -- a balcony is provided higher up and discretely out of the way for visitors' retainers who are more paranoid about their charges' safety. Up there, is only a single man, looking bored and a little put-off, wearing a tunic in the colors of Balmorra sector. He doesn't pay much attention to the dinner, all the same, and seems to be there more to satisfy someone else's insistence on his presence than his own, seemingly satisfied with the huskarls' presence themselves.

Zero pauses, his fork halfway to his mouth, at a thought; If I get drunk, I'm not going to be able to defend myself when Piper comes back... He resolves to take his wine at a more... reserved pace.

Freyja finds Roakkana's brilliance, and the highlit closeness of her Force-aware friends, oddly reassuring... like she's not trapped all alone here. A small, quiet smile crosses her face for a moment, even though her gaze is far away as she waits for everyone to be served. She wonders who the single man is, searching casually... she doesn't recognize him, but since he's in sector colors she'd guess he's associated with the cabinetmember from the sector government.

The first course, light as it is, is over soon, and a mid-course of sherbet in an icy, subtly tangy flavor is served to clean the palattes. It is followed by a soup which Zero actually finds oddly familiar, and which Roakkana with surprise notes as having not only a few Kashyyykan vegetables, but also a few ingredients -- Roakkana's surprise is audble, which is saying something -- from Sedrak.

Zero blinks and looks at his bowl. "Master, does your soup taste like...?"

Freyja smiles at Roakkana's surprise, and tries slowly and quietly to link with him, to murmur, Balmorran thanks/courtesy, Master. She takes a slow breath, then tries again, You me improve, hai? She tilts her head slightly to gaze sideways at the Wookie from one gleamingly outlined eye, wondering if the connection worked, despite her rather complex message.

The Wookiee gives a smile to Freyja, and inclines his head. I am indeed honored, Freyja, he thinks/says to her. Roakkana makes a pleased sound, and under his breath can't resist saying to Freyja and Zero, "Indeed it is, Zero. Quite well-done, too, if I do say so. I'm very glad they managed to prepare the otherwise-poisonous shattak-root correctly." A little louder so that the vodor will pick up on his addressing, he says to the Baron, "Your chefs are to be commended, my lord Baron. This is a very pleasant surprise."

Zero nods. "I have to say I'm honored to see some food from home again. I haven't been to Sedrak in a long time."

The Barons response is a smile and a bow from where he is. "I will tell them myself that they did well. It was my wife's thought that we should have those ingredients from Kashyyyk and Sedrak."

Freyja grins quietly to herself. Father will be pleased, Mother will too, and to be honest, she's glad they took the time to research the shattak root correctly also. She leans a bit to smile at Zero also, "You like it? Tell Mother later... she'll be very happy."

Zero nods, "I'll make sure I do. Haven't had fish from home since I left, and that was almost ten years ago.

Freyja covers a small smile with one graceful hand, rings flashing for a second, then extends the Force link to whisper to both Zero and Roakkana, Relief you not-Huttee! Her eyes twinkle with amusement at them over her henna'd hand.

Freyja wrinkles her nose for a second, remembering that dinner. They'd all been excruciatingly well behaved... but that's one she'll gladly not repeat, despite her mother's calm insistence that guests should be helped to feel welcome and comfortable.

The mid-course of sherbet comes, this one of a subtle berry-fruit flavor, and then there is a very light seafood course -- some sort of filleted prawn from Alderaan, someone says. If they're prawns, the fillets seem to have been from prawns about the size of of a small Human.

Zero mutters, "Do they have fish this big on Kashyyyk, Master?"

Freyja quietly nibbles a bit... and a moment later, silently and without looking, puts a small sliver down near her lap as well. She smiles internally as Stein neatly nips it cleanly out of her fingers, chews it up with pleasure, and then carefully licks her fingers clean. Once he's done she continues eating, half listening to her Father talking to someone on his other side, and half listening to Zero and Roakkana.

Roakkana is looking at the fillets wryly, "No. And I'm trying not to think of how such a fish might eat to get that big. Neither should you two. You'll sleep better tonight, I think."

Another sherbet, of a sweet, cloying flavor, then the main course: amongst some very appreciative sounds a number of roasts, each roasted to a golden color and elegantly carved into fans of rich hue, with a scent that tells of a wide variety of spices and not a shred of fat on the roasts at all. Not quite poultry, not quite herd-animal meat, the dish itself is not known to Freyja, never having seen it served in the manse before. Likewise, Zero has never seen it in his travels.

For the few in the gather who do not eat meat, there is a dish of exotic legumes and tubers that are cooked and presented in no less an elegant fashion than the roasts, with if anything an even more masterful symphony of spices upon them.

Freyja wonders what the meat is. She looks up and, eventually catching her mother's eye, gestures slightly towards the dish and mouths, 'very nice!'

Zero grins, "Always did love a good roast. It'd take months to import something like this to Sedrak."

Freyja leans to murmur quietly to Zero, "If you'd like, later we can go ride out to check on the autumlas herd? That's the biggest roast on the hoof I know of."

Zero grins, "Sounds like fun."

Freyja brightens, "All right then -- we'll make it an outing!"

Freyja's mother catches the glance, and smiles, nodding. "Thank you, dear. The majordomo says that a trader from Anobis in the capitol was selling them. They are apparaently from a small world in the Outer Rim."

Both Freyja and Zero see it, though: Vakkal maintains his stoic vigil, not showing a single sign of hunger. (Typically, huskarls who stand watch at table are fed well enough beforehand so as not to be distracted by their own stomachs.) What he does show, however, is confusion, a subtle furrowing of his brows as his nose quivers a very little.

Zero murmurs to Roakkana, "Something's up with Vakkal, Master. Maybe the meat doesn't agree with him..."

Freyja tilts her head thoughtfully... then tries a careful whisper through the Force to Vakkal, What? Meat know? She's rather pleased at all the quiet practice she's getting tonight.

The canid's eyes flick to Freyja in surprise at her touch... then he nods once, extremely subtly, returning to his strict guard stance.

Roakkana makes a quiet sound. "Perhaps. I am wondering if the trader from Anobis didn't in fact know where the roasts are from. However," he says, in a more normal tone, "even if unknown, let us at least enjoy it. Nothing quite like savoring a new taste." His voice drops so that only Zero and Freyja can hear. "And perhaps get our first taste of Sith fare."

Freyja nods thoughtfully at the Wookie's comment... and tries the meat cautiously. Vakkal didn't say to stop, so... she'll see what it's like.

Zero swallows carefully. "Well," he murmurs after a few moments, "At least they know how to eat down there. It's really good."

The meat is succulent, easily amongst the best which has crossed the dining-hall table of Haus Rigg in this generation. It has a many-layered flavor, enhanaced by the Balmorran spices in the glazing, tangy and spicy yet becoming smooth and subtle as one chews. Knowing what they know, however, it is perhaps not hard for Freyja or Zero to imagine such a roast being eagerly anticipated at a feast by the likes of Shen Ravos or Methel-ssa.

Freyja savors the meat's flavor. It's really good... and it's interesting to speculate what a Sith lord would think of how it's prepared here. She grins internally and has to cover a cough at the sudden, ludicrous image of Sith lord Ghang S'yiul striding into the hall to settle down for a shared meal and to congratulate her on her impending betrothal. Oh, she would so have words for his mad apprentice, if that occurred!

The course is completed, and after another sherbet mid-course, the dessert is served, a variety of creame pastries from worlds throughout the sector. And then, almost abruptly, the dinner is over, and there is only the lingering of guests over various drinks which will go on long into the evening. People begin to meander about, bringing up conversations with others.

It is at that point when one of the women in the elaborate Balmorran dress and make-up approaches Zero's seat. "Zero Satau?" she asks, in a voice that seems far too young for her apparent age. "I mean... are you really that Satau? The son of the Devil?"

Freyja blinks... then tilts her head to grin and watch Zero.

Zero blinks, caught entirely off-guard and making a concerted effort not to breathe his drink. He eyes the woman carefully. "I haven't heard that name in a long time... how do you know her?"

Freyja wonders idly if the triat will end up getting named interestingly also. Curious thought.

The woman smiles beatifically, and bows quickly in greeting. It's then that Zero notices, oddly for Balmorran dress, the large-gripped, slightly curved vibro that hangs straight down from her side. "I know it because I'm from Sedrak. I'm Maishen Qiangwei, daughter of Zhangfu Qiangwei." She looks a little sheepish. "I know I don't look at all Sedraki in this... but I am passing through here to attend the Military Academy on Caamas, under sponsorship from the Senator."

Freyja turns her head to hide the grin. So... now the servants know Zero was futzing on Sedraki 'formal dress'!

Zero bows, carefully trying not to spill his drink. "Qiangwei! I've heard your name before... it's great to see more of us getting out into the galaxy. It's been forever since I heard a familiar name." He smiles, "Yes, Akikou Satau is my mother."

Maishen nods cheerfully. "I'd thought so! I'm so glad to have run into you. I was raised on the names Satau, Wulong and Akikou both." She laughs quietly. "I'd never have thought to run into the son of the Devil here!" She hesitates alittle. "Have you... heard any news from Sedrak in the past few weeks, maybe?" Her tone sounds hopeful.

Zero grins sheepishly. "I know my mother would be flattered to hear that. And my father too. But... all our parents are heroes. Everyone that walked off that parcel of land is a hero, my parents just happened to be more visible, that's all." He smiles apologetically, "I haven't been home in about eight years, I haven't heard any news from the planet in a long time. I was thinking of stopping there before I headed back into the Rim for training... would you like me to carry a message for you?"

Freyja raises a mental eyebrow. Fascinating! Maybe she'll get a chance to meet the Devil herself!

Maishen nods, letting out a breath. "If you would, I'd greatly appreciate it I've been concerned ever since I heard that ships had been sent there, and since then... no messages at all. If you go there, please just tell my father that I am well. I left there three weeks ago, and he seemed bothered that his only daughter was not only leaving home, but leaving the world."

Zero blinks, "They sent... they sent ships to Sedrak? But why? Sedrak is of no strategic value to anyone that doesn't have a vested interest in dirt farming."

Freyja wonders if the girl knows why the ship was sent. All she knows is the new strike cruise-carrier Bloodeagle VI was sent there -- very hastily. She glances curiously at Roakkana, wondering if he knows why... she knows Jedi Knights were sent as well, after all.

Maishen looks a little startled. "You didn't hear the news? The Republic sent the Bloodeagle there two weeks ago, and some Jedi as well. We haven't heard anything at all about why or even anything at all from Sedrak itself." She looks a little crestfallen. "I'd hoped that... perhaps, you might have known something."

Roakkana looks mildly bewildered by the news -- he's known of it before, but did not know why the ships were sent then, nor does he know now.

Zero says, "No, no I hadn't heard anything..." He trails off, "I'm sorry, Maishen. But I promise I'll tell your father that you're alright. I have to go there, now, if something's happening on Sedrak... I'll send word to you on Caamas the moment I know anything, alright?"

Maishen puts on a more positive demeanor, smiling and bowing. "Thank you. You have my deepest gratitude, Zero Satau." She glances behind her. "I am staying with Minister Croaska, in the capitol, and she's leaving now, so I must go with her. If you will be on Balmorra for a few more days, we can meet if you like."

Zero nods, and bows deeply. "Certainly, Maishen. I'd like that. I'll be here, for a few more days at least."

Maishen smiles again, and nods. "I look forward to it, then. Thank you!" She bows politely to Roakkana and Freyja. "A good evening to you, and congratulations again, milady Freyja!" Then she and the other Wookiee are away. Freyja notes, perhaps unsurprisingly, that the person who had been on the balcony is now gone.

Freyja smiles and nods politely to the girl, if looked at... then leans to murmur to Zero after the girl's departed, "Zero, if you like, we can invite her along on the outing to see the autumlas herd?"

Zero waits until Maishen's safely gone, then drains his entire glass in one shot. Gods below. What the hell are they doing on Sedrak? With Jedi, even! Haven't we had enough wars for a lifetime already? "Uh... yeah, maybe that's a good idea, Freyja."

Freyja grins at Zero's gulp, adding thoughtfully, "You... might want to consider not moving very quickly for a bit, Zero... considering what you just swallowed?" She gets a wicked glint in her eyes as she adds, "Or better yet... shall I call Piper to see you to your apartments?"

Zero blows out a long breath, "Doesn't matter. Damn it... was it foolish of me to think Sedrak would be passed over? There's nothing there!" He forces himself to keep his voice down. "Freyja, I can't go to Zhar until I find out what's going on at Sedrak."

Freyja nods calmly, "I know, Zero. Don't worry about it. We'll go where we must, as time permits... but we'll pick up our promised meeting and visit Sedrak before we start the training." She adds more quietly, "Keep your voice down, my friend, please?"

Zero's jaw works a bit. "Freyja, I think I've had a little too much to drink, and this is a serious shock to me. Maybe I ought to call it a night... I don't want to embarrass you."

Freyja smiles, "Neh, you'll be fine. Hold on but a moment, hai?" She looks around, beckons to someone, whispers to them... and a moment later Piper turns up, looking concerned. Freyja whispers to her... and Piper grins and nods, then helps Zero to his feet and to his rooms.

Zero goes off without a struggle. Damn it... it happened anyway.

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

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