The True Cake

[Taloombray]

*Taloombray nodded at the general's words of caution.*

<That is a wise mindset.>

*When Tomias' voice crackled over the intercomm informing them of the imminent drop from hyperspace, the Wookiee took the advice and buckled in. When the ship began to shake and roar, he instinctively grabbed hold of the seat. Luckily the True Cake was a better vessel than the smaller ships he'd been on in the past and the re-entry resistance was not too bad. They soon returned to smooth sailing.*

*When Katarn responded to Tomias' question regarding landing procedure, Taloombray realized he knew nothing about the planet on which they were about to land. He should have looked it up when they were travelling, but he had forgotten with his preoccupation.*

<What sort of planet is this? Climate? Gravity? Those sorts of things.>

[Lee Katarn]

*When Taloombray comments on Lee's response to his question, he simply nods in response then takes another sip of his drink. He savored the taste for a moment before moving the cup away from his lips and thinking for a moment.

This would be his first visit to the planet. Lee knew of Arkania, but he had never been to it. Nor did it hold as much value to him as it probably would the two arkanians in their group. Lee could only imagine how either of them would act on Arkania. It then dawned on Lee as he took another sip. He didn't know as much about Astefan as he thought he did.

Well, he certainly didn't know much about his past before the Jedi Order. He knew Astefan wasn't pureblooded arkanian, despite looking so close to it. Few knew that fact, and Lee was one of few. But other than that, Lee knew nothing about Astefan's heritage or back story. What kind of family did he come from? What experiences did he have on Arkania?

Maybe now was a good chance to find out some more about him. Goodness knows Astefan was there with him to learn his backstory. He had even been there when Lee discovered some facts about his family's history. Not even Lee knew that about his father and his line. It then got him thinking about his brother, Tobias. His younger brother was raised sith, and that was all he knew really.

Lee had to wonder if he could be turned from the dark side. His brother so willingly accepted it as though it were nothing. But right as his thoughts shifted to what he did with certain items of his father, the ship rattled a bit when it was entering Arkania's atmosphere and it jostled Lee from his thoughts. Thankfully his drink did not spill. He looked over to Taloombray who was now asking him about the planet and his previous thoughts were now in the back of his mind.*

Arkania? Normal gravity, as far as I know. The climate is rather cold, however. I'm hoping the fur keeps you well insulated. I've never really seen a wookiee in a cold kind of environment.

*Lee knew he was speaking of ignorance, but he was hoping the wookiee fur was more than just show. It had to keep them warmer than a human being anyway. Lee was rather fur-less, and thus had to resort to bundling up in multiple layers of clothing and some rather bulky.*

Also from what I understand, there are a species of beasts called dragons that can fly and breath fire. I'm hoping the firebreathing is only myth, however. Though, usually my hopes never hit their mark.

[Taloombray]

<Though most of Kashyyyk is warm and humid, our fur is insulating. Some more so than others. I have an undercoat. Never had to put it to the test though.>

*Taloombray wondered what the cold planet would be like, and how cold was cold. The coldest he'd ever been was the time he visited Ranon's ancestral home in the Wartaki Islands and his small friend had talked him into going swimming. On the coast the humidity from the trees was swept away, so he sat on the beach soaked and shivering from the breeze while Ranon mocked him playfully from the water. It had not been a pleasant experience. Then again, Taloombray HATED being wet as it took forever for him to dry without the aid of a powerful drying unit.*

*At Katarn's description of the dragons, the Wookiee furrowed his brows in confusion. Since the four-legged ground-based breed of katarns -- as opposed to the arboreal version celebrated in Wookiee culture and the six-limbed sub-species found in the Shadowlands -- were frequently called "dragons" Taloombray's connotation conflicted immensely with the general's verbal depiction.*

<They fly? They must be very different from what we call "dragons". And how could any creature breath fire?>

[Lee Katarn]

*Lee grinned and responded to the wookiee's statement about Wookiee fur.*

Well it will most certainly be put to the test soon enough.

*Thankfully Lee had placed a set of armor that was warm and cold resistant. Though with the possibility of fire breathing dragons, he was wondering if he should have gotten some fire resistant upgrades instead.

Taloombray brought up a good question. Just how could they breath fire? It was a cold planet. Was it because of the climate of the planet? Lee honestly didn't know. Lee shrugged his shoulders and responded to Taloombray with the only suggestion he had.*

Maybe it's because it's a cold planet? I honestly have no idea. As I said, this is a planet I've not been to before and I've never seen these dragons first hand.

*Lee had to admit, however, that he was curious to see these dragons. He actually hoped he got to see atleast one. Though he had heard public rumors that the beasts were starting to dwindle in number. Their appearances had become slightly less frequent than the times of Arca Jeth.

Speaking of the famous Jedi Master, Lee was hoping to find some information there at the academy. Maybe something to help in his training and teaching. Arca Jeth was a wise and powerful Jedi Master of his time. Any knowledge gained from him would be invaluable. He looked over to Taloombray. He had served with the Republic and Jedi close to that era, right?*

Have you ever heard of a Jedi Master Arca Jeth? I know it's been over fifty years since that time, but I was kinda hoping you had known or seen him or atleast heard some good stories about him during your time with the Republic. I don't know if I mentioned this, but he founded the academy we are now heading towards.

*Lee was probably prying and being a little too impersonal, but he was just too curious about the subject. Taloombray was the closest to that timeframe on this ship.*

[Taloombray]

<I didn't know him personally or meet him, but I definitely knew of him,> *Taloombray responded, nodding.* <We heard about his exploits on Onderon. His siding with the wild fighters against the monarchy of that planet made him very popular among our warriors. The Jedi who were stationed on Kashyyyk at the time spoke highly of his abilities and wisdom. By all accounts he was a masterful fighter and worthy leader.>

*As he continued, Taloombray's tone grew harsher and he scowled mildly.* <His murder by the treachery of the Krath was a blow to the Jedi who were stationed with us. It very concerning. Even though Kashyyyk is far off from the Teta sector, the speed and voracity of the Krath's conquest of their neighbors made us nervous. For all our skill at combat, and our many honorable warriors, my people have a bad history when it comes to conquering invaders.>

*Taloombray was about to return the question to Katarn, but realized who he was talking to. Being human, the general could not have been alive at that time based on his appearance. Much like his difficulty telling humans apart, the Wookiee was not a good judge of human visual age due to his relatively minimal interaction with members of the species. Still, he guessed he had been in captivity longer than the man had been alive. It was an odd thing interacting with such short-lived beings.*

<Out of curiosity, General. How old are you?>

[Astefan Macillan]

*Astefan is content to let Tomias do the piloting, though he has been spending most of his time in the cockpit and even sleeping there, in a vain effort to have someplace a little more to himself aboard the now crowded ship. Ever since being assigned to this mission, his attitude towards visiting Arkania has varied all over the map, from curiosity to apathy to apprehension. It has been years since he last came to Arkania, and he can't help but wonder if it will be exactly as he remembers it. Mostly though, he doesn't care, or at least pretends that he doesn't. The planet is the homeworld of his own father as well as Tomias's, and Astefan himself had been born there. But if Astefan's father didn't care about him, why should he care about his father, or his father's planet? He holds a secret that very few people know - his father is actually a member of the powerful and notorius Adasca family. However, since Astefan is the non-pureblood offspring of an affair his father had with a servant, his father prefers not to acknowledge that Astefan even exists. Astefan broods silently about all this as the True Cake orbits the glistening white planet below, and wonders if his father is even still alive somewhere down there.*

[Garrett Sven]

*After the sparring match Garrett chooses to spend his break in meditation. He was getting a spice or maybe it was a tabacc craving he wasn't sure, but he knew that meditation would be the best way to combat it*

--TIME SKIP--

*Over the next three days Garrett spent his time with form training, sparring with Tomias, which he thoroughly enjoyed; working out as much as he could with what the ship could offer, he did a lot of push-ups, dips, various ab exercises, as well as lunges and squats to work his legs; he also maintained a meditation regiment to help fight the cravings that were getting less frequent and less severe. He was in the middle of meditating when Tomias came on the intercom to inform everyone that we would be arriving on Arkania soon. Upon hearing this Garrett ends his meditation and walks around until he finds his master and the Silverback speaking... AND Garrett could understand them both. The Silverback must have found a translator or something. He stands back a bit and listens.*

::Fire breathing dragons? Sounds pretty badass and going to the former paraxeum of Arca Jeth would be most enlightening::

I'm sorry Master I don't mean to interrupt, but would it be all right if I asked Tomias to put us down in one of the cities? We should probably resupply and I would like to get some synth-flesh for my hand before we go out into the frigidness that is Arkania.

[Lee Katarn]

*Lee sipped on his drink as he listened to Taloombray talk of the Jedi Master. Lee had heard the tales and read up on him. Arca Jeth was a pretty well known Jedi in the Order, even now. He was something of a legend. Lee set his drink down as Taloombray's tone changed.

The Krath. Lee remembered hearing of them. The next set of events Lee had heard after...Ulic Qel-Droma and Exar Kun. Kun becoming the dark lord and defeating his master but then eventually being betrayed by Ulic. Decades later and here they were now, Kun was still a dominating threat. Perhaps by going to the academy Arca Jeth founded, Lee would find something useful. Perhaps something that could help stop Kun.

But Lee's thoughts shifted yet again when Taloombray directed a question at him.*

Mid twenties.

*That was about right. Lee had to admit the exact age escaped him currently. He was still suffering from memory loss, gaps in his memory that spanned the couple of years he was gone. If it was mid twenties though, it was definently upper mid. 26? That sounded about right.*

I only got to hear tales of Arca Jeth and the Qel-Dromas. The Jedi of my time were those such as Revan and the Exile. It is a pleasure to say I met them both and interacted with the both of them, especially the Exile.

*Lee was unsure if Taloombray had heard of either of them, but those were the Jedi of Lee's time. Granted Revan was now gone to the unknown regions, but Kali was actually still around. He had been on a mission with her sometime back and it was her that found him on Ilum. Lee honestly had a closer connection to her than Revan simply because more interaction was there.

But as he's thinking about the Exile, Garrett chimes in. Lee turns to face Garrett and considers what he's said for a moment. Well, they did have more people on board now. Resupplying would actually be necessary.*

I guess we can do that. Sure.

[Garrett Sven]

*Garrett bows and leaves his master and the Silverback to converse about the mission. While he made his way to the cockpit he thought about the Exile, Kali if you will. He hoped to fighter with her fleet at some point in the future, not only because he wanted to serve the republic, but because he wanted to learn more from her. His time, like everyone's time a the Force Academy, had been too short. When he arrives at the cockpit he notices that while Tomias seems to be stoked to land on his home planet, Astefan looks... preoccupied*

Think we could set her down in one of the cities before we head out for Arca Jeth's place?

[Taloombray]

*When the General ballparked his age, Taloombray couldn't help but grin, amused. He was on a ship full of pups. Even though he realized the difference in aging between the species, the idea was still entertaining.*

*Taloombray was about to comment on the two Jedi Katarn mentioned when Garrett came in and asked about heading to one of the cities before proceeding on the mission. It did seem like a good idea. He could see how cold the Arkanian cold was and if his fur would be sufficient. He could also look for a Republic base and seek info on the Dr. Baffin who had apparently bought Lewlonnie.*

*With this in mind, Taloombray rose and excused himself from the conversation with Katarn.*

<I should go get ready for dropping planet-side. Perhaps we can continue comparing history after the mission.>

[Tomias Shoryu]

::Ok, I'll set the coordinates for the academy.::

*Tomias begins plotting a course to the Academy until Garrett comes in requesting to land in the city.*

Sure. It might be better to do so and stock up. 3 days on a ship of 3 guys and a wookiee can clean the storage out.

*Tomias recoordinates the ship to the main city. Once the path is plotted the ship begins to make its decent planet side. As soon as they enter Arkania's atmosphere the temp on the ship suddenly drops before regulating itself. Tomias sends a request to dock to the docking authority and before long he is given a location to land. Tomias lands the ship at said location and powers the ship down.*

Alright we're here finally.

*Tomias stands up out of his seat and pats Astefan on the shoulder who seems to be in deep thought.*

Welcome home?

*Tomias said it in the form of a question because of Astefan's earlier enthusiasm.*

I'm gonna go meet up with Lee and see how this is going.

*Tomias joins Lee at the table.*

Here we are.

[Lee Katarn]

*Lee nods in response to Garrett's bow and turns his attention back to Taloombray. The Wookiee excuses himself to get ready to leave the ship. When he speaks of continuing the conversation later, Lee nods his head and responds.*

Of course. We can continue this later.

*They still had plenty of travel time left after Arkania. Plenty of time to continue the conversation. Truth be told, Lee enjoyed the conversations with Taloombray. Before this, Lee couldn't remember a time he simply sat and had a simple conversation with anyone. The Wookiee proved to be good company and a good friend.

Speaking of good company, Lee had actually been thinking about someone else in the back of his mind. Over the past couple of days, Lee had resolved to put resources and effort into finding her. He even thought about starting to document his days like a journal that'd be directed at her. If he ever did find where she was, maybe that could be sent to her if he couldn't reach her in person. It was certainly better than just moping over it.

But he was once again interrupted from his thoughts. That seemed to be happening more often now. Was this a sign he was getting older? Always so lost in thought like some old Jedi. Like Vrook?! He looks over to Tomias as he takes a seat and tells him they've arrived.*

Indeed. Here we are.

*He remembered Tomias saying something about never being here before.*

Anxious at all about stepping onto Arkania for the first time?

[Tomias Shoryu]

*Leaning back in his chair Tomias leans his head back looking at the ceiling when Lee asked if he was anxious.*

A little. It's a learning experience. There might be some interesting things here. But the mission comes first. Explore the academy.

*Truthfully Tomias wanted to learn more about his father. It was an interesting topic. He only has early memories of his father back on Haruun Kal. He knew his father was a Jedi and that he led the clan before leaving again. Maybe he could learn about father during his younger days.*

[Taloombray]

*After a few moments, Taloombray returned to the main hold where Tomias had joined the General. The old soldier was now wearing his armor, both gauntlets, and had all of his weapons attached to their respective places on his bandoleer. Though he wasn't sure if going out so bedecked was appropriate for the setting -- full combat attire in a city -- but he rather go out with it than go without. He had also retrieved some of the modest collection of credits he had gathered before leaving home. Aside from paying his fair share of the costs of resupplying, he didn't have anything in mind he needed to pick up, but being prepared was better than otherwise.*

*As Taloombray had walked in on a conversation between the general and Tomias, he waited for a more polite opening to ask a question that had been on his mind. After Tomias responded to Katarn's question -- something about the Arkanian's feelings about being on his home world for the first time -- the Wookiee judged it was a better time to ask about the schedule at hand.*

<What are the plans for the city stop?>

*Taloombray didn't want to divert the list of city-side errands, but he did want to find a Republic-affiliated base in the city or somewhere where he might find the information he was seeking. If he had to do it on his own -- which would probably be the best idea anyway -- he would. It then occurred to the Wookiee that it might not be safe for him to wander alone. What were the rules where escaped slaves were concerned? Were there rules? If there were, did it matter?*

*With concern touching his voice more than he would have liked, Taloombray voiced a tangential issue to his worry.*

<Arkania is a Republic world, right?>

*Admittedly, Corulag had been a Republic world.*

[Lee Katarn]

*Lee nodded along as Tomias spoke. It was good to hear that Tomias seemed to be putting the mission first. There is no emotion, there is peace. Isn't that what the masters always told him? He could never truely appreciate that line of the Jedi Code until recently. Tomias didn't seem to let his emotions control him or get the better of him. He seemed to be approaching the subject with a more level head.

He admitted the emotions were there, but they weren't his driving force. Just as he opened his mouth to respond to Tomias, Taloombray came in asking questions. Lee held up his finger to Tomias motioning to give him a moment. He turned his attention to Taloombray, and what he saw he didn't quite expect. The wookiee was in armor. Lee blinked a couple times and had to admit to himself that the Wookiee looked more intimidating now than before.

Still, with the academy on this planet so unknown to Lee, he figured the armor would come in handy. Still, Lee was curious as to how the locals would take in such a sight. Lee cleared his throat and responded.*

I know Garrett needs to stop and make some adjustment to his hand. I'm going to aquire us a shuttle fit for this planet's climate so that our trip to the academy can go as smoothly as possible.

And Arkania is a Republic world. You should be able to contact the Republic Navy if that's what you're interested in. And as I mentioned earlier, if you need some help convincing the Republic Navy then I can talk to some people and try pulling some strings for you.

Anyway, after I get a shuttle secured then I will order some supplies and make sure everyone wraps up whatever business they have left so we can leave for the academy after the ship is resupplied.

[Taloombray]

*At the general's motion to Tomias, Taloombray was a bit chagrinned. He had thought the two were finished speaking. Still, no real harm done.*

*At Katarn's information, the Wookiee nodded. Though the Jedi had not known what had motivated the question, the fact Arkania was a Republic planet put Taloombray more at ease. He was also glad the other had brought up the Republic Navy; he had forgotten about his earlier goal what with the prospect of learning more about Lewlonnie.*

*After once again gesturing grateful acknowledgments to the general for the information, Taloombray turned his attention to Tomias.*

<Apologies for interrupting.>

*The Wookiee then took a seat and awaited final landing and disembarking.*

[Lee Katarn]

*Lee turned his attention back to Tomias.*

Well, this is your chance to poke around a bit before we head out to the academy. I'm going to take care of business and let everyone else do the same.

I'd suggest taking Astefan with you, if he's up for it. It may prove to enhance the experience.

*He stands up and turns his attention to Taloombray.*

You're welcome to head out with me, Tomias, or go it on your own. Either way, you're bound to run into a Republic base of operations. The choice is yours.

*Lee speaks to Taloombray and Tomias.*

I'm going to find Garrett and head out with him. Tomias, don't get into too much trouble.

*Lee points his finger at Tomias.*

No burning burning buildings.

*He grins, letting him know he's only kidding. Lee then leaves the area and goes off to find Garrett, calling out to him.*

Yo Garrett? Garrett? You want to head out with me and take care of stuff?

[Garrett Sven]

*Garrett had been using the fresher to clean himself up some before they disembarked. After donning some clean robes he replies to his master*

Oi Lee I'm over here. Are we ready to head out?

[Lee Katarn]

*When Lee hears Garrett responding to him, he turns towards that direction and heads towards him. He stops short and answers him.*

Yeah. Soon enough. I'm going to change to some Arkanian climate friendly attire and we can roll out. Wait for me at the boarding ramp.

*Lee heads towards the dormitories he had his belongings at. Assessing that no one else is in the room, he pulls out the armor he had upgraded for cold resistance and went to the fresher to change. Once he's finished changing, he comes out of the fresher with Jal Shey Mentor armor as opposed to the traditional Jedi robes he was wearing earlier. The cloak he has fixed over it is tighter fitting than the bulkier, looser one he had before.

He exits the dormitories after tossing the Jedi Robes into the foot locker at the end of his bed. He makes his way towards the boarding ramp where he told Garrett to wait for him. When he sees Garrett, he speaks up.*

Ready to head out?

[Tomias Shoryu]

*Tomias holds up his hand and shakes his head saying don't worry about it, in reference to his apology. He listens to Lee when he turns his attention back to him.*

Sure. He was starring off into the distance when I came back here. He really had a somewhat harsh tone towards Arkania.

*Tomias rocks forward in his chair so he's leaning forward and resting his elbows on his knees. He looks up at Lee.*

Well the field trip with Astefan would prove interesting. Getting a feel of the planet would be a good start. Finding suitable gear meant for the climate and everything. Sounds like a plan.

*When Lee talks about finding a Republic outpost Tomias chimes in.*

Heh, if you feel like hanging with me again I'd welcome the company. I'm gonna go get Astefan and see if he wants to come along for the trip.

*Tomias continues listening when Lee directs his words to him and points at him referencing burning buildings. Tomias raises his hands in an "it wasn't me" manner. As Lee heads off to find Garrett, Tomias looks back at Taloombray.*

So you wanna come with me again?

[Taloombray]

*When everyone was getting to their feet and organizing themselves for venturing into the city, Taloombray also rose. He wasn't sure what he wanted to do -- either striking out on his own or going along with one or other of the Jedi groups -- but he needed to decide something soon.*

*Taloombray was mentally weighing the pros and cons of the options when the general chided Tomias, somewhat playfully, insisting on no burning buildings. The Wookiee was at first confused, wondering if this was yet another cryptic Jedi code or perhaps a human joke. Then memory struck him with a jolt. He had first seen Tomias -- then thinking him a white-haired human passer-by -- while hiding in the foliage beside the Czerka headquarters when flames took it. Taloombray quickly dropped his gaze to the floor, lest any of his mind-reading-capable compatriots see the truth of the whole burning building situation in his eyes.*

*Though the corporation was evil and deserved all the destruction wrecked upon it, for some reason the soldier did not like the idea of the Jedi knowing his involvement in that particular event. It wasn't out of shame... just... it would be better if they didn't know. Yes, that was it. Things would go more smoothly that way.*

So you wanna come with me again?

*Tomias' question drew Taloombray's attention away from the floor. He still wasn't sure if he wanted company -- he had no idea if he would find the information he was looking for, or if he would like it if he found it -- but the concept of wandering alone on a strange planet wasn't appealing either. Despite Katarn's reassuring statement of Arkania being a Republic world, the Wookiee was still worried. Though he would admit it to no one and it would take considerable duress to force such a confession from him, the prospect of being recaptured inspired a visceral dread in the formidable old soldier*

*At the warehouse escape, Taloombray had told the chestnut youth that fear of death was wise and a sign of respect. But death was a relatively quick thing and once it took you, that was it. The stagnant purgatory of captivity was something else entirely. It made time stand still, making days feel like years and years feel like lifetimes, and it haunted. There was nothing to respect in that. Fear of it was just that; fear.*

*Though Tomias stood only a meter or two away, Taloombray blinked at the Jedi as though having difficulty seeing him from a far distance. He shook himself slightly in an attempt to clear his head, knowing a response of some sort was expected.*

<Uh... yeah... Sure. That would be best. It being your homeworld and all. Thanks.>

[Tomias Shoryu]

*Tomias smiles and nods as he stands up out of the chair.*

Alright then. I'll go and give Astefan the heads up on the game plan then I am gonna get a few things together and I'll meet you back at the boarding ramp in about 15 minutes.

*Tomias walks towards the cockpit and finds Astefan still sitting in the Co-pilot's seat.*

Hey, Astefan, If you want to come along we are about to go explore the city a little bit and get some things done before heading out to the Academy. It'll be you Taloombray and I if you decide to join us. If you feel like coming meet up at the boarding ramp in 15 minutes.

*Letting that sink in and marinate a little bit, Tomias leaves and heads back to his dormitory. He didn't personally have any clothes suitable for said Arkanian climates but it was nothing that a spare upgradeable robe he found in the storage footlocker and a few minutes with a workbench couldn't fix. After a few minutes Tomias had a nice light and most importantly warm hooded robe that would suffice until he got his hands on some actual Arkanian attire. Tomias clips his lightsabers on his side before throwing the robe on. It fit well enough and would keep him from freezing. Standing up, Tomias leaves his little corner of home on the ship and heads to meet the others at the loading ramp.*

[Garrett Sven]

*Garrett does a quick pat-down to make sure he has everything before he responds*

Yes sir I am ready to roll out.

[Lee Katarn]

*Lee nods to Garrett when he confirms he is ready to head out. He uses the controls to open the ramp and exit the ship shortly before Tomias went to the ramp. Lee had assumed by this point that Taloombray would either head out with the other group or head out on his own. He was ready to get things taken care of anyway. Patience was not Lee's virtue, it was something he had to learn.

Exiting the ship, Lee and Garrett head into the city.*

[Astefan Macillan]

*Astefan snorts derisively. Welcome home? Not hardly. He feels "at home" amidst the climate and other physical characteristics of the planet, but that's just an expression - Arkania doesn't feel any more like home to him than Rhen Var does. His father didn't want him, was ashamed of him. There is no home here for him to come back to. And what his new friend hasn't seemed to grasp yet is that the native Arkanians won't be inclined to make Tomias feel at home either, what with his obvious mixed blood. It was that very prejudice that Arkanians have against offshoots and the like that ostracised Astefan from his father.

The Arkanian is dimly aware of the voices drifting to the cockpit from the main room, and something in the back of his head tells him that he should go join the others and be more sociable. Instead, he remains seated as memories from the past play out before his eyes. He hadn't thought much about his father in a long time, but now that he is back on Arkania it is almost impossible not to. Considering that Astefan's father is not only an Adasca, but the brother of the infamous Arkoh Adasca, he wasn't a bad guy, though Astefan admits to himself that perhaps he had just been seeing his father through the rose-colored glasses of childhood innocence. After all, at that young age, evil or crazy CEOs and unethical corporate decisions would have been lost on him.

What he remembers is looking up to his father and wanting to be like him, in spite of being held at arm's length. His father had been immensely relieved when his illegitimate child turned out to have no distinctly un-Arkanian features, and on a good day he actually seemed to act fatherly towards Astefan. But the knowledge that his son had some non-Arkanian blood running through his veins was still there, and his father feared what could happen to his reputation if word got out that he was in a relationship with someone not of pure Arkanian blood. But young Astefan was oblivious to all this until the day they had received news about the tragic destruction of the Arkanian Legacy. With Arkoh presumed dead, his brother moved to take over the reins of Adascorp. During the legal battle in which the Draay Trust also tried to take over the company, his father became subject to far greater public scrutiny, and so to protect his reputation and not risk losing public support, he sent his non-Arkanian mistress and his bastard son away.

Astefan had therefore spent his teenage years growing up in the Outer Rim, and although his mother had continued to receive a regular stipend, it wasn't long before his father quit calling. That first year or two that he and his mother were on their own was pretty rough - for his mother because of an abrupt end to a lengthy relationship, and for Astefan because of the sudden absence of a father figure. Even though he had been back to Arkania several times, Astefan hasn't heard from his father for ten years, maybe more. He is sitting there idly wondering what would happen if he were to just casually stroll into his father's office after all these years when Tomias comes back in and startles him out of his reverie.*

"What? Oh, yeah, I'll be right there. I stayed with the ship on the last planet we stopped at, I'm not doing that here."

*Astefan gets up and heads for the boarding ramp.*