Arkanian Breeze

[Arloh Adasca]

Images © from Stock Ships sourcebook

The Arkanian Breeze is one among the Lord Adasca's fleet of Adascorp crafts. It is a Solar Wind model luxury yacht, but has been fitted with non-standard equipment to make it both quite comfortable and also capable of taking care of itself.

OOC, this is the early predecessor of the Kuat Drive Yards' Starwind-class Pleasure Yacht seen in later generations.

The Arkanian Breeze has been loaned out to Lee Katarn and his group by Lord Adasca. The purpose of the loan was to expedite the Jedi's retrieval of the escaped Experiment S-7734 in the face of Order 11-38.

[Lee Katarn]

*As Lee took his first steps into the ship, he was beginning to notice how much more spacious this ship compared to the last. It was certainly one built for comfort and reflected the property of a powerful man like Adasca.

Lee was certainly not without his own wealth and power, but this was beyond his scope. Adasca was a man of power and influence throughout the galaxy itself and he might as well be emperor of Arkania. Lee suddenly felt like a small businessman in comparison, which led him to wonder exactly how his father felt next to the Adascas. Lee knew his father had some form of dealings with the Adascas, primarily Arkoh.

His father was also much more personally involved in the business than Lee was. Though Lee began to wonder how far he should let his thoughts go. If these thoughts were known, who might exploit this information for their own personal benefit and make things...not so fun for Lee? It's why Lee was paranoid enough to not focus on that aspect of his life.

As Lee made his way further into the ship, he noticed a rather nicely sized passenger lounge. The ride would certainly come with class and comfort, though Lee would need a place to stretch his legs so to speak. Lee eventually made his way into the cargo hold of the ship, noting this cargo hold was much larger and could possibly provide more room for some lightsaber training. Lee would be sure to attempt to put that to good use.

Making his way out of the cargo hold, Lee eventually found himself in the passenger's lounge again. The exploration of the ship was rather short, but Lee suspected he'd get to know the ship quite well over the course of time. For now, he'd rather just relax now that he finally had the time to do so.*

[Joe Civilian]

After he introduced himself to Katarn and pronounced the Arkanian Breeze at his service, Asca Leth felt little reason to loiter. He was only there because it was his job. Listening to lowly non-Arkanians quibble about things was not part of the job. He had quickly extricated himself from the situation and returned to his charge.

Leth had been sitting in the cockpit reading the most recent HNN feeds — economy and business was his interest — when he heard footsteps coming up the ramp of the Breeze. With an annoyed sigh, the Arkanian set aside his reader device and leaned forward, keying the on-board surveillance system. As expected, it was Katarn. He appeared to be investigating the ship. With another sigh of disgust, the pilot leaned back and went back to reading the HNN feeds.

[Vrook Lamar]

*Master Vrook comes aboard the Arkanian Breeze and announces the reason for his change in travel arrangements.*

"It occurred to me that this vessel will likely have far superior communications equipment. It might be better for us to stick together anyway."

*He finds an empty locker and silently calls dibs on it by placing his spare clothing and equipment inside. Removing his fur-lined cloak, he hangs that inside the locker as well before taking a better look around at what they will be traveling in. He gets as far as the passenger lounge, where he realizes how much he'd really like to take a nap. Old people need their naps, and to be fair, it has been a long day. But there are some calls he needs to make first, once they make orbit.*

[Taloombray]

Taloombray had been on Katarn's heels when entering the ship. He was consumed with a variety of thoughts, none of which were really ship-oriented, so he wasn't so keen on inspecting it as Lee was. Still, he couldn't help but notice the difference in this ship as compared to the previous one. This ship was far nicer than the True Cake. However, this ship didn't have his personal belongings, so the Wookiee really didn't care much.

Once he happened upon what looked like rooms — private rooms at that — Taloombray ducked in and set down his blaster rifle. It wasn't his in truth, but had been borrowed from the True Cake. But at the moment it was the only thing among his possessions which wasn't itself or contained within a garment. As humans would say, all he had now was "the shirt on his back" in the form of his bandoleer. And he didn't have any intention of taking that off.

The empty, luxurious room served only to remind the Wookiee of his lost possessions and what that meant. Taloombray stepped out and into the passenger lounge just as the Jedi Elder appeared. He was mildly surprised the Elder was on this ship; last the Wookiee'd heard the Elder was going on his own. But the Elder's voiced reasoning for changing his mind made sense and the old soldier found himself pleased the other was joining them.

<The more warriors the better with this.>

[Garrett Sven]

*When Garrett walks up the entry ramp onto the Arkanian Breeze, he is immediately taken back by the decadence of the ship. He had spent little time in the presence of nobility on Kuat and was therefore not accustomed to seeing decor such as this.

After taking a quick look around the ship Garrett claims a room and leaves his heavy coat and long sleeved shirt on the bed, leaving his short sleeved under shirt on, before making his way back to the passenger lounge and addressing the larger group*

So what's our plan of action going to be?

[Tomias Shoryu]

*Tomias walks aboard the Arkanian Breeze and looks around the ship. Admiring the work of the ship he takes in some of the workings and constructions of the ship. Tomias finds a bunk and puts his winter clothes in the footlocker. He then heads back to the main area to meet Lee and the rest of the group.*

[Lee Katarn]

*Lee notes that Vrook decides to join them as well. His reasonings were fair enough. He had to think that Garrett's own reasons had something to do with it as well, but he could never be too sure. The old master was a tough nut to crack. The others briefly went about the ship. Some explored, all settled in, and all eventually grouped with him in the passenger's lounge. Lee had found a nice chair to settle into.

By the time everyone else joined with him, he looked quite comfortable. However, that outside exterior was quite the front. On the inside, comfortable was not a word he'd use. He addressed Garrett first and foremost before saying anything else.*

The plan is to go to Telos and assess the situation. I can't say what's going on for sure, but expect a spur of the moment plan because once we arrive it'll all be about reaction and we need to prepare for everything from the best situation to the very worst. Be ready for any scenerio you can think of. The only advantage we have is the time given in-transit to prepare ourselves mentally, physically, emotionally, and spiritually.

While we are in-transit, Master Vrook will be using the ship's communications system. I'd ask that we try not to bother him too much and leave him to his work. If he needs any assistance, I ask you do assist him. We're only as strong as our weakest link, so work together and support and help each other as much as we can.

*Lee stands up from his chair and begins walking slowly in a back and forth slow pace infront of the group gathered with him.*

This won't be easy and I won't really call it a mission. It's something that's necessary. Our lifelong friends and allies have become our enemy by whatever reasons they've seen fit to come up with. I can't say that I know these reasons, but I know this is only a recent event. This didn't happen before we reached Arkania, otherwise the Republic would have been on our heels when we first landed.

I'd like to know the cause of all this. I'd like to know why this is happening. I'd also like to know how closely related this is with the Sith, because they truely gain the most from the Republic turning against the Jedi. What could be better than two allies at each other's throats, instead of at the throat of their enemy?

All that aside, my first thought is for the Jedi on Telos. It's where our younglings are, our students. The youngest of our Order are gathered there. If the arrest order is for Jedi, strictly the term Jedi, then the soldiers carrying out their orders will be arresting all Jedi. I mean all of them.

There are many questions weighed in our own hearts. I know there are many weighed in my own. However, I believe Telos will give us some answers, whether we want to hear them or not. From there, we'll know what to do...or have a better idea of what to do. If we can leave Telos, then we'll get back on Talik's trail.

I can't just go directly after Talik though. Not with this hanging around. Not without knowing something.

*Lee sighs.*

If only I could get ahold of Carth. He's about the only one I'd trust in the Republic to attempt to contact right now. Then again, he's probably in the hot seat. He's an Admiral in the Republic navy, yet he has such strong ties to the Jedi.

*Lee finished speaking and slumped back down in his chair, sighing yet again in a bit of frustration. Nothing was clear to him and there was no obvious course of action to take. He wasn't even 100% on going to Telos as a course of action they should take. He had to do something though. There had to be a choice. This one was his. Not everyone here agreed with it, but they were here with him all the same and that meant something to him.*

I know not everyone agrees with this decision. I get that. I'm not known for making the most rational decisions. Some would argue I'm known for making the most irrational. All the same, I'm glad we're all here on this ship heading into this together.

*Where was Astefan when he needed him? Of all the people that had joined him to go to Arkania, Astefan knew Lee the best. His old Arkanian friend knew how to give him the right feedback, knew to some degree how Lee would react or respond to something. Astefan would have played a clear role as a sort of advisor and conscious for Lee. The Arkanian certainly had a more logical, reasonable, and rational mindset than Lee did. He had to wonder how Astefan would react to all this. If anything, Astefan probably saw this coming. Lee choosing to go directly into the thick of things? Probably something Astefan would have seen coming.*

[Garrett Sven]

*Yes in Garrett's mind his master was making the least rational decision he could possibly make. Shouldn't preserving this fragment of the order and making sure the others who are out on missions stay out of republic hands be top priority? Telos has been taken by now, it has to be. Sure they might not all have been interrogated yet but sneaking onto a Republic capital ship for a rescue mission didn't sound that fantastic either. At least master Vrook had decided to come along. With him as well as Taloombray on board they had a lot of experience they could pull from. Not that Lee didn't have a lot of experience in his own right, the group just benefited more from having it's older members.

Althought Vrook was an impossible to please codger, he was still a very skilled master of the force. His saber work was nothing to make light of either, but it was his force mastery that Garrett most admired him for. It was nothing against Vrook though. Another master had all ready taken the place of "master swordsman" in Garrett's eyes. He hoped that while he was in the company of Master Vrook that he might receive some instruction in force techniques from him, or at least talk philosophy with him.

Taloombray was an old soldier from the look of it, and after seeing him in combat against the dragons in Arca Jeth's academy Garrett could see that he was one who could easily hold his own in a real fight. He probably had tactical knowledge as well that could come in handy on this little hellride the group was on. Garrett was also interested in learning some of his wookie swordplay as well. All Sith will be versed in the 7 forms of lightsaber combat, but not all Sith had gone blade to blade with a wookie. The change in form could mean a lot in a future duel.

When Lee was finished with his address Garrett speaks again*

How shall we prepare then Master?

[Tomias Shoryu]

*Tomias leans up against the doorway as Lee tells them that they are pretty much going in blind with no set course of action.*

So we going with a go with the flow approach. Heh, fun.

*Tomias continues to listen to Lee as he explained Vrook's usage of the comm system and how he shouldn't be bothered. Tomias wanted to get some extra training from Vrook if possible. Tomias was confident in his lightsaber skills but he wanted more training in the Force and with some of the Force powers. He had inadvertently learned and used the Force Wave while dealing with the dragons. It worked but it was still imperfect and nothing like that of what he's seen in actual use. He figured he'd work on it by him self and if Vrook broke free he'd ask. When Lee brings up the younglings at the academy Tomias hangs his head because he knows that the Republic wouldn't take what they would consider a risk and take it easy on a child who was force sensitive.*

The Republic won't see a child. They'll see a jedi. When they are scared they are like any other child and they will panic. That combined with the itchy trigger finger soldier or the I hate Jedi soldier could and probably will turn ugly.

*Shaking his head Tomias continues.*

Its not the best plan but its fitting for a group led by you Lee. We should let our courteous Arkanian pilot know that we need to head out.

[Vrook Lamar]

*Vrook gives a start suddenly, and then realizes that after sitting down in one of the plush, comfortable lounge chairs, he had started to nod off while Lee was talking. He listens to the last paragraph or two of Lee's speech, and snorts in agreement. Knight Katarn can certainly be irrational, alright. Garrett then speaks up again, and Master Vrook naturally assumes that he is the one being addressed.*

"The first and simplest thing we can all do to prepare, Padawan Lobb, is to use the time during our hyperspace flight to get some much-needed rest. That goes for myself as well. I believe we have all had a very long and exhausting day."

*Vrook clears his throat loudly after Tomias speaks.*

"AHEM. Actually, as the only Jedi Master present, I believe this group is currently being led by ME. Not to mention that the original mission to Arkania that was assigned to Knight Katarn is now concluded. In case anyone is confused about the Jedi chain of command, Knight Katarn will serve as my second until we get reunited with other Jedi. If, Force forbid, something were to happen to both of us, then Shoryu will be in charge of Padawan Lobb."

*Vrook stares intently at Tomias. The stare is not his infamous angry eyes or his stern glare or even his look of disapproval, but it's likely still disconcerting, especially when he doesn't say anything for a moment or two.*

"...I'm certain there's something about you that I'm forgetting. Hrmmm. It'll come back to me eventually. Anyway, you and Padawan Lobb may both rest assured that we are not rushing blindly and recklessly into this. Thanks to Lord Adasca's generosity, we are able to travel more covertly without our transponder beacons announcing that the Jedi cavalry has arrived, so to speak. Before we do anything else, we will scout out the situation and learn as much as we can. If the Republic has already made a move on the Academy, it should be obvious. If they have not yet arrived, we will drop in and evacuate as many as possible, or if they have already come and gone then we will cautiously send only two of us in to check for survivors and anyone who may have successfully hidden themselves. If the Republic forces are still there, then we will claim to have business on Citadel Station and go there first so that we can see what else we can learn and work out to do next.

And yes, Shoryu, letting our pilot know we are ready is an excellent suggestion. Why don't you go do that."

[Lee Katarn]

*Just as Lee is about to speak up in response to Tomias, Master Vrook begins speaking. Lee remains silent while the old Master is speaking. While still listening to some degree, Lee's thoughts begin to drift to what Tomias had said. "Befitting a group led by" him? Lee supposed such things would have been true.

Lee knew his own personality. He knew he could be quite irrational and very bold. His reactions were often swift and hardly allowed time to settle, which often meant there was no time to thoroughly plan anything. "Winging it" was certainly Lee's style. However, Master Vrook was right. He was the senior Jedi among them. Lee had only continued in leadership role after Vrook's arrival because he was removed from the old Master.

And that was another thing. Lee was now realizing just how comfortable he had gotten with a leadership role. It was like something natural and he hadn't really given it much thought. To him it was simply the fact that action needed to be taken and this made the next step for him and his company to take. And while back at Adascorp, Lee more consciously assumed a leading role because the Arkanian had asked for him personally and it felt like the right and necessary thing to do. If Astefan had taken the lead, then the Arkanian might not have been so willing to vocalize what was going on.

Lee's thoughts were slowly drifting around the recent events on Arkania. Things had calmed now. There wasn't any major event taking place to keep his mind in check, focused and on point. Now he found himself wondering and wandering mentally. It wasn't until Vrook was wrapping up what he was saying and telling Tomias to go tell the pilot where they were heading that Lee snapped back to the reality around him. He clears his throat now so that he can respond.*

Master Vrook is correct. The mission I was charged with is now over, and authority will go back to him as senior member. And while Master Vrook is correct in what advantages we may have and what plans we have for various scenerios, I would like to point out that to some degree Tomias is right.

We don't know what to expect and to that degree we are going rather blindly. I spend most of my life not knowing what to expect, though. All I do know is going to Telos is the move we need to make and whatever the situation may be, to react accordingly.

*Lee stands up yet again from where he had been sitting.*

Though yet again I will point out how correct Master Vrook is. Rest is important. Arkania threw alot at us and we can't expect to be of much use if we're not at our best once we reach Telos.

*He then glances over at Tomias.*

If it does come to you being in charge of my padawan, don't give in when he asks for midnight snacks and make sure he takes his afternoon nap. Otherwise he's just as grouchy as Ma- as my...old...pet sarlaac?

*Whew. Quick save, though not quite so smooth. He almost let a Master Vrook joke slip infront of Master Vrook.*

[Garrett Sven]

*Garrett's initial response was going to be, "I'll rest when I'm dead", but he decided that he should save his sarcasm for when Master Vrook wasn't around. He then turns to Tomias*

He's right about not feeding me after midnight. I trip right the hell out. That nap remark is completely false though.

*Resting was the last thing he wanted to do. Meditation would probably be good for him at the moment, but he felt restless. It was at that moment he wished he hadn't sold the last of the grey gabaki back on Zeltros. Since this was a luxury yacht for an extremely powerful CEO, Garrett was sure there were drugs on board. Although he wasn't sure what kind. As he contemplates hiding places for contraband another thought crosses his mind that rhymes with drugs... bugs. The ship had to be bugged right? If Garrett was the head of Adascorp he would bug the free ship for sure. Did it matter though? The pilot could have more surveillance equipment in the secret compartments that were bound to be on this ship, so theoretically searching for bugs could be futile. And with that thought Garrett talked himself out of looking for both drugs and bugs in the ship. Rest it was then*

Well if this team meeting is adjourned, I'm going to make myself a drink and call it a day gentlemen.

*at that moment Garrett contemplates making an addendum to his remark for Taloombray, but decides not to. Anyway just because he wasn't a human or near human didn't mean he wasn't a gentleman. Garrett then stood and bowed to his elders before making his way to the galley in search of refreshment*

[Tomias Shoryu]

*Tomias straightens up as Vrook corrects him about the current role of leadership. With a nervous start Tomias turns and bows to Master Vrook.*

Uh, heheh. My sincerest apologies Master Vrook.

*Tomias raises an eyebrow when Vrook mentions that there was something about him that he forgot. Oh well, since Vrook dismissed it for now, Tomias decided not to worry about it for now. Tomias nods in acknowledgement and begins to proceed to inform the Arkanian pilot of there destination. As he begins to walk away Lee begins to speak. Stopping and turning he listens to Lee's words. He covers his smile up with his right fist and hangs his head down so that Vrook doesn't notice. Lee almost got everyone scolded. Clearing his throat he looks back up between Garrett and Lee.*

I'll keep that in mind gentleman.

*Tomias turns and heads to the cockpit. As he's walking he is wondering why he is always the one that has to deal with the Arkanians. They hated him. He was sure this one was no different. But Tomias saw this hate and prejudice as a major flaw in the so called perfect race. He peeks his head into the cockpit and clears his throat to get the pilot's attention.*

Ahem, Excuse me. We've decided that we need to head to Telos first. We're ready to head out as soon as possible.

[Taloombray]

After everyone had gathered in the passengers' lounge, Taloombray took a seat in one of the huge padded chairs. In usual mission briefings such behavior wouldn't have been fitting, but the Wookiee reminded himself this wasn't a military setting; he was here on his own volition and did not have to answer to anyone here. He was observing and helping. Plus the giant padded chairs were comfy and the others had similarly made themselves at home in the luxury craft.

The old soldier listened with some interest and a lot of background calculations to the discussion of the nonexistent plans, who was in charge, and what the immediate future would likely hold. While he certainly didn't like the idea of flying into what might be a Republic assault on a compound, the concept of the soldiers possibly attacking or causing harm to children made his mane bristle. His attention — what was left of it after the physically and emotionally exhausting day — clung to the thought that, if nothing else, children must be protected.

Taloombray also wanted to sleep. The idea of rest was a excellent one and the Jedi Elder certainly had his full support. It would be nice to sleep in a quality bed in a private room. It was too much to hope he'd be able to sleep throughout the "night" without being haunted by unpleasant dreams given the long day's events, but at least the physical situation was better than most and not to be sneezed at.

The solider's anticipation of rest was soon tarnished by a militaristic instinct kicking in. As the two younger Jedi left the meeting, Taloombray addressed the more senior Jedi.

<This isn't what I'd call friendly territory. Should we take sleeping watches?>

It wasn't like the single Arkanian could do any of them much harm himself, but there was no knowing what sort of automatic tricks where hidden on the ship.

[Lee Katarn]

*Lee glances over to see Tomias leave to inform the pilot. After Tomias has left, Lee can hear Taloombray's translator. He listens to the Wookiee's concerns, then glances over at Master Vrook. Even if the older Jedi Master was in charge, Lee didn't think he'd mind if he responded to Taloombray.*

I don't see the pilot being much of a threat. Then again, we're not in a position to become complacent, so it couldn't hurt. Unfortunantly, I can't take the first watch. I need my beauty sleep.

*Lee had taken a beating by the mother of all Arkanian dragons. The only thing that saved his life was that Force Bubble, but that dragon's flames were so intense that it nearly burst his bubble. Lee was only thankful it held up as long as it did. Still, between using it and the intense heat around him, it left him exhausted and drained and there were burn marks and the like.

He glanced over toward Master Vrook again. The old master had healed him, but hadn't given his stamina back. Lee managed to gain back some of it while walking about Adascopolis and Adascorp, but then he was running off of straight adreniline when he was trying to stop Talik. Now that things had settled down, the toll of Arkania's events were starting to take it's effects.*

I believe my padawan is still up and about, however. You can inform him that he has first watch, then you or Tomias can have the second. I'll let you two decide the pecking order. I'll be fourth. By the time my watch comes around, I should already be awake and around the ship anyway.

*Lee slowly stands from the chair he had been in.*

But for now, I'm going to settle in and get some shut eye.

*Lee exits the passenger's lounge and back into the dining room, from there he exits and finds himself in one of the hallways of the ship. As he walks down the hallway, he notices a door to his left. Shrugging to himself and deciding it's a room he hadn't seen yet, he opens the door and pokes his head in.*

No way. This place even has a holotheatre? Mr. Adasca spares no expenses. He could have taught my father a thing or two about living in luxury.

*Lee leaves the room and closes the door behind him. As he continues walking down the hallway, he notices now there are several doors on his left. He looks at each one of them as he passes them down the hallway but eventually stops at the door fartherest down the hallway. Opening it, he sees no one has settled in it and thinks it will do perfectly. Lee enters the room and closes the door behind him.*

[Taloombray]

This was one of those times Taloombray really wished he'd kept his mouth shut. But so many years of experience was hard to ignore, even in the face of exhaustion. As Lee wandered off after pronouncing his padawan having first watch, the Wookiee was dryly amused at the situation. Despite the earlier interchange where the Elder had asserted his authority over the current mission, Katarn had handed out assignments. The Elder was notably absent from the list of guard watches, which bespoke the fact Katarn recognized his authority and age, but Taloombray was still amused.

There was also a flair of righteous annoyance in the old soldier's mind. He wasn't part of the hierarchy anymore; why was he being given marching instruction? But he silenced his irritation quickly. He had been the one to bring it up, so it made sense he would be a part of it. And — still very much to his discomfort — he was still instinctively inclined to follow orders rather than oppose them for no (or poor) reasons. Lifetimes of being a soldier followed by too many years as a slave made direct orders painfully hard to resist.

The compulsion bothered the Wookiee because he associated it with his time in captivity more than his time in the military. He had a number of deep-seated doubts about his character regarding his time in captivity. Was his inclination to follow orders evidence that they'd in some way broken him? Was he not really the stalwart warrior he thought himself, but a coward who put on a good show when he knew others were watching?

However, these were issues Taloombray did not want to contemplate right now, especially if he was going to be awake for the next few hours on watch. Ultimately, he rose from the comfy padded chair and went to the galley to find Garrett. When he located the young human, he addressed him, consciously trying to interact with the other as he might have a peer back when he was in the Republic. It was difficult.

<Garrett. Lee says you're on first watch.>

The younger human had mentioned getting himself a drink. Taloombray wondered if this ship had any tea or something close.

[Joe Civilian]

Though he had been following the conversation in the passenger lounge on his monitors — the Jedi and their pets' suspicions were correct; the ship was indeed bugged — the pilot Leth attempted to mix in some mild surprise with his look of more than mild disgust when the halfbreed appeared. When he responded, the pilot's words were those of respect, but his tone was anything but.

"As you wish, Sir."

With that and little to-do, the Arkanian went about the pre-launch procedures, sent automatic communications to the Adascorp "representatives" at the space port authority, and began the process of lifting off. The accent from the Arkanian surface was smooth and hardly noticeable given the quality of the Breeze's inertial dampeners. In a few moments they were away into the upper atmosphere.

Leth set the hyperspace coordinates for Telos and as soon as they were in the minimum orbit, he triggered the hyperspace engines. As smoothly as the ship had risen from the planet, the stars became streaks of light in the view screens and they were away. Why the Jedi thought Telos was a good idea he had NO idea, but that wasn't his business. His job was to ferry this lot around and keep tabs on them, not question their reasoning.

[Garrett Sven]

*Garrett entered the passenger galley and walked over to the refrigerator. As he opens it Tomias walks by towards the cockpit. Garrett decided he would chat with his traveling companion more after he returned. As he eyes the food and beverages Adascacorp had provided Taloombray also enters the galley to inform Garrett that he has the first watch*

I guess I should make this drink non-alcoholic then? *he chuckles slightly*

*He finds a can of fizzypop and then spots some sliced gamorrean pork. Upon further inspection he can tell that it has been smoked, and therefore a choice meat for a fine sammich! Not wanting to be rude he turns to the silverback*

Are you hungry Taloombray? Lord Adasca has seen it fit to provide us with grade A pork product and a toasted sandwich sounds like a fine idea to me.

*before the wookie has a chance to respond Garrett begins pulling out the pork, some bantha butter, a few vegetables for added substance and some spreads to make the sandwiches perfect. He then starts browsing the various drawers and cabinets for a skillet and other utensils*

[Taloombray]

Taloombray was almost envious of the ease with which Garrett responded. Even though he'd been with the Jedi for a week or so without difficulty, the revelation of Order 1138 had returned an awkward discomfort to the situation… at least as far as the Wookiee was concerned. Not only was he the outsider in terms of species and status, the new Order and his position as a Republic soldier set him apart from them anew.

Garrett's offer of a sandwich brought Taloombray out of what might have been a growing spate of internal wheel-spinning. He looked up and watched the human's activities. Though his time being owned by Czerka wasn't his only extended experience being around humans, it had been his most recent and distinctly unpleasant. This made the concept of a human not only offering to make him food, but then doing it of his own accord, amused the Wookiee. It was a dark amusement, but it was still enough to make him grin. Considering the day he'd had, it felt like years since he'd done that.

<It smells like a good idea to me.>

Taloombray rested his elbows on the bar-like thing which separated the entrance of the galley from the actual cooking area. He leaned over it and watched what Garrett was doing. As he did, his stomach rumbled to life, reminding him loudly that he hadn't eaten in a long time. Whatever "pork" was, the smell was mouthwatering.

<Thanks.>

Though the sight and smells of Garrett's work was tantalizing, the Wookiee decided his activities would be best served not drooling over the padawan's shoulder. He busied himself by hunting through the luxury craft's pantries for something that would approximate his favored beverage from home; warrl tea.

After some rooting around, he found something that smelled vaguely plant-like and was packaged similarly to what he was used to with tea. Some minutes later Taloombray had a mug of steaming dark liquid. The mug — intended for human-sized hands — was too small, but the contents were sufficiently tea-like for his tastes.

[Lee Katarn]

*Lee could hear the door close and after it did, he glanced behind him. He knew the door was shut, but he was just thorough enough to double check. It was certainly closed tight. He turned slightly to his left and worked at the small keypad next to the door. After a few varied sounds of beeps, there was a positive chime, indicating the door was locked. Lee looked up from the keypad to look around the room.

After glancing around he gave a heavy sigh. No doubt in Lee's mind the public areas of the ship would be bugged heavily. Yet, he knew that'd also mean the private rooms would have bugs in them as well. Lee glanced down at the belt on his Jal Shey armor. The armor had served him well, especially here on Arkania. As he looked down at his belt, he could notice some scorch marks and scratches on his armor. Now was not the time to focus on that, however.

He reached down and fumbled through one of the pouches on the right side of his belt. After a few moments, he pulled out a small, metal device. It was exactly what Lee needed, however. Despite it's appearance, it'd get the job done. He was going to debug this room. He needed a place of solitude. He needed some place to himself. The weariness already began to show on his face, but Lee refused to give into it just yet. Despite his handy little device, this would take much time. It would be a delicate, methodical process to hunt down every single bug in the room.

After a couple of hours of thorough searching, Lee bent down near his bed and after a few moments, rose to his knees and placed his eblows on the bed. He looked at the object he held in his left hand. The last bug. After a moment of looking at it, almost in triumph of his primary object, he disabled it. He slowly rose to his feet, clearly showing that over those couple of hours the weariness had not only stuck with him but intensified a bit. Lee walked over to the other side of the room slowly and finally reached a small bin in the corner. He dropped the tiny little device into the bin and it made a sharp clanking sound.

In the bin were atleast a dozen other bugs, though probably more, that Lee had found throughout just his room alone. Arloh Adasca heeded to no budget when it came to keeping tabs on his latest hires. Lee turned on his heels away from the bin and headed toward his bed again, now disregarding the bin as his objective was now over. He placed the little device back in it's rightful pouch. Lee then began to unstrap his belt and paused. He made his way over to an equipment locker that was next to a small closet. One was meant for clothes, the other for armor, weapons, and other similiar things one required on them regularly.

Lee thought about the fact that the rest of his clothes were on his ship. He'd have nothing to change into. Lee shut the door to the equipment locker and took a couple sidesteps over to the small closet next to it. Opening the sliding door, Lee had looked down to begin to unfasten the torso of his armor. However, as he looked up his eyes grew wide for a moment before blinking a few times just to make sure he was seeing correctly. There were a few changes of clothes.

Lee thought it odd, and infact he found it even more odd that the first one that caught his eye was his size. However, upon further inspection it seemed that there were sets of two, each set a different size and only three sets total. Arloh must have had plenty of time to inspect his team, because each set seemed like they'd fit the intended individual. Though that meant that Arloh was only accomidating for the three individuals he knew were riding...that wore clothes. That meant Lee, Garrett, and Tomias. Taloombray was a Wookiee and besides bits of armor, Wookiees weren't known for their stylish clothing or any clothing at all.

That also meant Arloh didn't expect Master Vrook to be with them. He had to wonder if having the old Master aboard was a nice last minute wild card in their favor. He also was beginning to wonder if each room was equipped like this. It made sense. Arloh and his hand picked pilot couldn't have known who'd choose which room, so putting varied sets of clothes in each room made the most practical sense. Maybe Lee could get the others to round up the clothes that wouldn't fit them and make a nice trade off sometime later.

For now, Lee finished unfastening the torso of his Jal Shey armor. After it was off, Lee set it in the closet. With that bit of armor off of him, Lee gave a relieved sigh despite it being light armor he was wearing. He gave his chest and stomach a once over as he glanced down. He could see some new bruises, but their dull black and purple mix only complimented the few twisted scars on his torso, scars that Lee doubted would ever fully heal. It was Lee's constant reminder of just how horrible, sick, and twisted the Dark Side could be.

Lee didn't even bother to look at his back. He didn't feel like taking the few steps over to the mirror. Instead he just shed off his boots and the lower half of his armor before putting on a pair of lounge pants that fit him. Lee knew he would have to clean up later, but for now he just didn't have the strength to endure the refresher just yet. He made heavy, tired steps toward his bed and simply collapsed into it. His first instinct was to close his eyes and sleep. The first came easy to him, yet sleep would not. He lay there quietly for a few minutes, but nothing.

He gave a frustrated sigh, yet he knew why he couldn't sleep. His mind could be his most powerful weapon, his most useful tool, and the most dangerous thing to his enemies. Yet at the same time, it often worked against him just like it was doing right now. He couldn't sleep because his mind was too active. He remembered how smoothly things went when he arrived on Arkania. Yet from the moment they entered Arca Jeth's Praxeum, things had continued to go downhill.

They encountered the local Arkanian dragons and they fought as fierce defenders. It was a shame. The Praxeum would have made a wonderful new base of operations for the Jedi. Yet, the dragons weren't the only problem. There was no real love for the Republic, or the Jedi. Which another thought flashed Lee's mind and before he brushed it aside, he reminded himself that Arkania was not a Republic world. If the Jedi could somehow befriend Arkania, it was likely they could secure their safety there.

All things considered though, Lee doubted it'd ever work. The Arkanians were highly speciesist, even to their own kind if they were not completely pureblood. It was the kind of hierarchy that Lee hated. He experienced it as a child growing up and as a very young man in the upper crust society of Coruscant. Such a thing wasn't fair. Despite the first few years of influence in his life, the Jedi had been a guiding light for Lee's morals. He never discriminated. He never thought in terms of species and class. Every sentient might as well have been round purple balls, all on the same level.

The Praxeum itself just wasn't a good choice considering it was now nest to the dragons and the planet itself wouldn't exactly welcome the Jedi with open arms. Despite this, Lee mused that it'd be better than any Jedi relocating to other Republic worlds. As he mused on that thought, he could feel himself becoming quite...angry over the thought. He decided to shove the musing to the back of his mind for now. His mission was over anyway, he didn't need to worry about finding a new Jedi base of operations for now.

Lee then thought about Vrook's arrival and their confrontation. He had been suspected as a Sith Lord or atleast being turned to the Dark Side, and by an incomplete holocron he forgot he was carrying with him since Dantooine. It was stupid to forget such a thing. Yet by far, it was not the stupidest thing Lee had done in his life. Lee's lip curled with a bit of a regretful smirk over such a thought. Lee had done many, many stupid things throughout his life. Stupid things a child might do, and Lee compared himself to a child readily.

Perhaps it was because of how...different his raising had been but it had taken years under Jedi tutelage to start reigning him in. Maybe he was just a wild child that needed the time to mature and settle down. Different sentients matured at different times, even those within the same species. Maybe that was the case with Lee. He could feel it here lately. He was changing. His attitude was changing. His approach to everything was changing. Maybe it seemed subtle to others. Lee could still admit to himself that despite the change he was feeling and seeing, he could tell he still had his own personal flare that stuck to whatever he was doing.

There was one thing Lee wasn't so willing to admit, and that was the catalyst of this change. When he focused more and more on what this catalyst was, the image of Master Vandar appeared in his mind. He could see his gentle smile, and hear his voice. Lee's only wish...well he really had two...but his first wish was that he had listened to Master Vandar's teachings sooner. The other was that he wished he could have atleast given a proper goodbye. The death seemed so sudden and something Lee never came to full terms with despite the amount of time and everything that had happened since then.

Lee would have rathered he been there with Master Vandar. Maybe then Master Vandar would still be around and the Order wouldn't be in the mess they were in now. Lee instantly regretted the thought. Master Ell was a fine Jedi Master and made a fine leader. Yet part of Lee felt this might not have happened if Master Vandar were still around. Lee had to once again push thoughts to the back of his mind as he could feel the anger he had on the subject well again.

There was another thing about Lee's change. He hadn't been so quick to think about it while he was dealing with everything on Arkania, but now he had time to. Over the course of time on Arkania, Lee had quickly filled in the leadership role. Not only did he fill in, but he grew so comfortable with it that, looking back now, it felt second nature to him. Lee had to wonder why. He had resisted such a role so readily earlier on. Yet now he had become comfortable with it. Was it the fact he had a padawan to take care of and mentor now? That was likely part of it. Lee also couldn't help but wonder if it was his teaching. There were two teachers that were very influential in shaping the Jedi that he was now, and both were strong and respected leaders.

Yet despite knowing that was also a very likely part of it, Lee couldn't help but think there was atleast one other part that he couldn't put his finger on. He was too tired to try and track down just what that might be though. He gave another heavy sigh, this time feeling a bit of pain in a couple of his bruises for the first time in awhile. Arkania had it's lulls in activity, but for the most part it went from action to action and Lee fed off the adreneline of each and every battle and confrontation. Now that adreneline was long gone. He would likely go patch himself up with some proper medical supplies after a shower.

Those bruises he were feeling now were likely from the fall he took after being thrown off the True Cake. He buffered the fall, but despite the buffer, he still landed on the ground with a thud. It wasn't anything serious, but it was a bit uncomfortable. Lee would count that as one of the stupid things he had done in his career, but it was out of desperation to stop Talik.

Talik. That was another beast of a subject entirely. Those two had quite a history and Lee couldn't help how angry he wanted to be at Adascorp for reviving that monster and now he was more insane than ever. Lee didn't know how he would find him or when, but Talik had to be stopped. Lee had done it once, but he was without Alex's help now. He didn't even know where Alex was or how he was caught up in all this. All the Jedi were to be put under arrest. Why? Why?! Lee raised his fist up and quickly slammed it down on his bed as he lay down.

He was angry. He was frustrated. He was confused. He had said earlier that most of his life was spent not knowing what to expect. Yet this was something else entirely. The Republic had suddenly turned against the Jedi and Lee couldn't understand why. Didn't they know the Sith would seize this opportunity? Not just the Sith, but other entities would prey on this opportunity as well. Lee about twenty years of stupid decisions under his belt, yet this was the stupidest decision on the part of the Republic.

It was shortsighted. It was foolish. In the end it'd leave them weak and exposed. Lee couldn't shake the feeling that the Sith would reap the benefits and it angered him because anyone with even a slightly rational mind could see that. The Republic had already committed themselves to this. The Sith would know and so would other enemies of the Republic. Turning on their own allies would be their regret. The Jedi were called defenders of the Republic in the past for very good reason and Lee felt that the Republic would be unfortunant enough to learn that lesson.

Lee sighed yet again. His mind wasn't letting up. It'd be awhile before he fell asleep and get any rest. He may not even get any rest before his watch was up. The least he could do was lay down for the time being. Lay down, and continue to lose himself in his own thoughts.*

[Lee Katarn]

*Another frustrated sigh could be heard inside the walls of Lee's room. He couldn't get over what the Republic was doing. He was too confused. Lee had spent a good while thinking over what any of the Jedi could have done for the Republic to suddenly become unbiased to go after every Jedi. Lee didn't do anything to the Republic, but in the grand scheme of things that didn't matter. Whoever this new Chancellor was, he didn't care if someone didn't do something wrong.

Lee could feel anger and bitterness in his thoughts, but he was tired of pushing it to the back of his mind. They'd continue to float back to the surface. He might as well confront it now as opposed to later. Whoever this new Chancellor was, Lee already considered Vienna Organa a better Chancellor. She was fair, just, and calm. She was a true cultured woman with wisdom and patience beyond her age. At the very least, that's how Lee had seen her and invisioned her to be.

This new Chancellor, however, might as well be inviting the Sith to just take over now. The Jedi were now in a vulnerable position thanks to the Republic and couldn't properly fight off the Sith. Not just that, but Lee had this gut feeling for awhile now. He couldn't put his finger on it, but ever since he arrived on Arkania he had this feeling of impending doom. Lee thought maybe it was the events he encountered at Arkania. However, even now that thought stuck with him. Whatever was giving Lee this long lasting feeling, the Jedi would be in too vulnerable a position right now if Lee's gut feeling revealed itself.


Lee didn't know if it was the Sith or something more sinister. He remembered hearing how Revan went off into the Unknown Regions of space because of something. Maybe it was that something that Revan went after? Lee honestly didn't know. It was a dull feeling on the fringes of his conscious mind, reminding him from time to time it was still there. Lee could only hope that things worked themselves out before it was too late and the Jedi would be unable to act or do any of that defending that they're supposed to do. The thought of the Jedi sidelined and unable to do anything frustrated Lee to such a great length that he was almost downright angry over it.

But now Lee was satisfied enough with his venting to let the subject fade to the back of his mind again, for now. Speaking of sidelines, Astefan was already sidelined. Astefan would be very limited for quite awhile and Lee couldn't help but fault himself for that. He was foolish, even reckless. He allowed a Sith Lord to manipulate his mind and force him into actions he wouldn't have taken if he were thinking straight. In the end, Talik got away and Astefan paid the worst price by being Arloh's personal "guest".

Though another thought just struck Lee. Why did it have to be Astefan? At first Lee thought because Astefan looked pureblood. However, he was too well aware of how well connected Arloh was and how his wealth of knowledge surpassed even many high ranking politicians. Arloh, of all people, would have caught on that Astefan wasn't pureblood. There was no way he couldn't know, now that Lee was thinking about it. What did Arloh want with Astefan? Did the two know each other in some fashion? Was there some sort of connection there that Lee was missing?

Lee wouldn't get those answers anytime soon. Next time he came into contact with Astefan, however, he'd have to try to ask him about it. For now Lee just allowed his pondering over the connection to fade as he finally fell asleep. His eyes were still closed when he finally did doze off.*

[Tomias Shoryu]

*When the pilot responds, Tomias smirks and turns and walks away. He knew the pilot was full of it but he thinks nothing of it. As he is heading back to his room he passes the area where Garrett and Tal are hanging. As he approaches the scent in the air puts Tomias in a near hypnotic state and his stomach comes to life with a somewhat savage growl that nearly makes him fall to his knees. Catching himself he stumbles into a seat. How long has it been since he ate something. Since before they got to Arkania? Its been very eventful as well and Tomias has exerted a lot of his energy so he was probably running on "E" anyway. As if he sounds like he is struggling he looks over to his comrades.*

Hey guys, what's cooking?

[Garrett Sven]

*Garrett finds a skillet, spatula, and a good knife. He then puts the skillet on a burner and starts melting some of the bantha butter. Just as the butter had melted and the beginnings of the sandwiches were being made Tomias returned to the galley from the cockpit*

We'll use the term cooking loosely *chuckles* but I've got sammiches in the making and you look hungry!

*With that he finishes three meat and cheese sandwich halves and places them in the simmering butter to begin melting the cheese and toasting the bread. He then eye's his spread options. He then spots the Bimm mustard and begins to spread that onto three more slices of bread and places them on the skillet as he turns up the heat. He stacks on some veggies and then removes the toasted, topping covered bread slices as he assembles the three sandwiches*

Dinner, or whatever meal this counts as. is served.

*As he bites into his tasty hand-held meal he contemplates what was just said in the context of this group. He had never shared a meal with either of these people. Sure he knew Tomias well enough... kinda. They had started to get to know each other before shitt hit the fan on Onderon, but Taloombray was and unknown essentially. He has some ties to the Republic military, but beyond that Garrett knew really nothing about the great silverback. Something had happened to piss him off while they were on Arkania though. What was it, he wondered. Perhaps the military had given him a less than desirable rank? At any rate he wanted to ask the wookie about his service to the republic. Maybe he would think of a way to bring it up if he actually starts talking, but the sandwich is far too distracting. He swallows the bite he had been working on and decides to start a conversation*

So... does anyone else think going to Telos is a bad idea? I know we need to look out for the other members of the order but there's a fleet stationed in orbit around the planet at all times. The academy has been taken, or is in the process of being taken as we speak. Still...*he takes a sip from his drink* the loss of knowledge would be a tragedy.

*He hadn't thought of that aspect of their mission until now. If the actual temple on Coruscant was unavailable then the Telos academy would be the resting place of most, if not all, of Jedi knowledge and teachings. That was a troubling thought indeed*

[Taloombray]

Taloombray nodded to Tomias when the other Jedi entered the galley. By the look of him he was as hungry as the Wookiee was. His concentration quickly returned to Garrett and his food preparation however. A good rule was that those with power and those with food deserved attention.

The soldier tried his best to not to fall on the sandwich in his hunger, but he wasn’t very effective in this effort. The meal was delicious if largely alien to him. The concept of meat and other foodstuffs placed between bread was common in his culture, but the individual pieces of this sandwich were mostly unknown. “Pork” was something new, but Taloombray approved of it. The gooey substance on top of it was similarly unfamiliar, but wonderfully tasty. The tangy spread was much more like the spicy fare of most Wookiee cooking and he liked it.

By the time Garrett began speaking, Taloombray had finished off his sandwich and was trying to get crumbs out of his facial fur. Though excellent, the single sandwich was not going to cover for the fact he hadn't eaten since they had been on the True Cake prior to arriving on Arkania. As far as the Wookiee could tell, that had been just about a full day cycle ago if not more. Work followed by work followed by being arrested did not generally lend itself to eating.

<It is not what I would have chosen,> Taloombray responded as he moved to investigate the pantries for more foodstuffs. <But if the Jedi younglings are in danger, we must protect them. And there's worse things we could do with our time since we don't know where our quarry is.>

Admittedly, flying into a hostile force — and a Republic one that he'd have to answer to or hide from at that — had few competetors for "worst idea ever." Still, Taloombray could think of a few.