Cerean Advancement

[Nightender]

The location had been carefully chosen. The timing had to be precise. The factions of Cerea were locked in constant struggle and it was the Dark Lord's wish that the Cereans become advanced so they might also become a benefit to the Order.

It was Alindra Vordrinn's belief that she had to become an instrument of the Dark Lord's divine will. A dizzying experience had changed her from a simple devoted initiate into a purified loyal zealot. In her mind, she had been transformed into a priestess of sorts, one who must not only do as her Lord asked, but also convert others into thinking the same.

She was not alone in her travels, having been sent with two others, both more experienced, but Alindra wondered how far their devotion went. Alindra would not make the mistake of trusting them, but she would do everything she could to help them. After all, it was their mission as well.

Since it was their plan to ally and aid the Cereans who wanted to promote technological growth, Alindra had put together a few supplies. Aside from the array of equipment they could show the Cereans, Alindra had put together a collection of items--clothing a few jewels, even identity cards with records to back them up. She had a trio of boxes holding all the supplies, should the others choose to use them. There was a fourth box, larger than any of them. If necessary, Alindra's droid guardian was inside. He would be a dramatic display of the uses of technology, but could be possibly detrimental, being a war droid.

As they approached the planet, Alindra went to the others. She looked at Shandari and Looma, smiling to each. "I don't know what either of you had in mind," she said, "but if either of you like, I thought we might have some luck in displaying ourselves as nobility. It might not earn us many direct points, but it could convince them that we could provide a wider array of technology."

Alindra took her seat and watched the atmosphere flow around them. "Of course, I'm still somewhat new to this, so I'm willing to defer to your experience."

[Mara]

[... from Lords and Ladies]



Looma Isana still wasn't entirely clear on the circumstances that had led her to her current position, here on a ship headed down to land on Cerea along with two other Sith, both females. One younger that she didn't really know--one Alindra Vordrinn--the other older, who she was familiar with and yet also didn't really know--Shandari, the... companion of her own master. And yet, the yellow Twi'lek didn't feel at all uncomfortable being sent on this mission without her master along for the ride. After Subterrel and the return to Korriban, well... she was glad to be out of his way for a while. Plus, she was looking forward to getting to know Shandari a bit more.

As for the mission itself, now that was something else entirely. All she knew was it was a more subtle mission, made most of negotiation and diplomacy than any outright battling. And that was an aspect that appealed greatly to her. Though she had had some downtime after returning from the big Subterrel battle, a good share of it had been spent in a kolto tank and recovering in the infirmary at the Temple on Korriban. Subconsciously her hand went up to her right lekku where about a foot of its tip was still wrapped in protective bandages. Bandages she had disguised slightly with the same leather material she wore in her headband, both on the injured and healthy ends of both of her headtails.Thankfully she hadn't lost the tip, and the lightsaber cut had cauterized it mostly, but it had hurt. Like hell. A Twi'lek's lekku were very sensitive, especially to someone who could feel the pain both physically and through the Force. Yes, this simple mission would be good for her, both for its non-violence and for the lack of Shard.

Besides the rather fashionable leather she now wore on her lekku, she was clad rather simply in dark leggings, tunic and black cloak. Her lightsaber hung at her belt, and she still had the pouch of sharp pieces of metal hidden in a pocket, now replenished after using them all up on Subterrel. She carried no other weapons, but she needed no other. Because Looma had the Force, and despite her other weakenings, she was rather proficient in telekinesis. Hopefully, though, none of these would be needed, as they gained some rich political allies on Cerea, rather peacefully.

She was carried out of her thoughts by the approach of the younger (in regards to Shandari, as Looma was the youngest of the trio) woman, Alindra. It was time to focus on why they had come to Cerea; Looma could wallow in her sorrow, regret and anger later. The young human's suggestion was a good one, but she as well declined an answer, or even her own suggestion for the moment, looking to Shandari for wisdom.



(((Blah, I hope this is okay. )))

[Foxfire]

Time some would say for a droid or a AI program that time is meaningless, that is not so, droids perceive time faster than most any other living beings. Micro-seconds are like minutes and full seconds like hours. To .925 an eternity was passing as they traveled to Cerea.

.925 never fully powered down. He just went into a stand-by mode for his main functions. His body did not need to move. The highly up graded sensors could detect the outside world but .... it was the same endless nothingness. The only thing that .925 would need on was his A.I. system. He went over the massive amount of data he collected from Alindra and other force users. He was breaking down the info into the basics. Physical bodily energy from force energy and then comparing it to each sample data from other force users.

On the other side of his program he was on constant watch to protect Alindra. Other force users were on board and their data surpassed Alindra's in various areas. Tho he was able to discern force energy he would need further data to correctly put the data in the correct categories, or areas of the force to which Alindra had made mention in the junk yard when she showed him the first time.

He once again opened an outside WIFI link to the ships coms and sensors both inside and outside.

Yes. The more input of the mission the better odds of success. Going in blind is neither well or good. Many a good droid was lost due to the lack of programming. The basic layout of the mission is simple but it has too many open ends that can not be fill by me or by you three.

.925 noticed that he was putting in to much words for a simple droid. He was starting to sound like a protocol droid which would never do because he had seen protocol droid destroyed first simple because they talked to much and gave their opinion to freely.

[Hotel]

At the moment, Shandari, or as she had recently become known as, Lady Madora, was deep in thought. She had not expected to be sent on another mission so soon after Subterrel, and her head was still trying to grasp the fact that she had actually been noticed among the order and promoted for it. She had not felt as proud as she had that day since the last time she had been praised by her now deceased master.

Her thoughts once more turned to the mission as she paced, the frayed edges of her new coat swaying as she moved. It was a mission of diplomacy. She was no diplomat, hell, she couldn't even speak, but the presence of an actual Sith Lord might just be enough to help the other two. As she paced she turned to glance over the two initiates with her. One was the pupil of Shard, Memnon he was called now. She had met the girl briefly several times before, though the girl managed to come out of Subterrel alive, and that had to have taken some form of skill and competence. The other girl on the other hand... She had never met her before. She would keep a close eye on her and determine just what she thought of the girl by the mission's end.

Pulled away from her train of thought by the girl speaking, she turned to face her once more. She closed her eyes for a moment as she thought, then reached out to both of their minds, her words echoing within them. "A Sith Lord has no need for such false trappings. The title itself is sign enough of my standings. However you two may do this if you wish." She nodded at both of them.

[Rugs]

The black of space over Cerea rippled as a transport dropped out of hyperspace. It was square-ish, medium sized, and completely unremarkable in almost every way. Well, except for the lone emblem that was painted on near the nose. That emblem was of the Jedi Order, and that was enough to make this transport a very special transport.

Two Jedi were within: a Knight and his student. The Knight was Locke Nemsee, Sentinel and Investigator for the Order, and his student, Jazen Solari. Locke was pacing slowly around the room they sat in, datapad in hand. The ends of his long coat shifted gently about his legs as he moved, and the hilt of his lightsaber patted gently against his thigh. He was reviewing the details of the mission at hand. He'd already looked over it of course, but for a job such as this, it could never hurt to look over things again. Knowledge was power, and for this, they'd need to be on their toes.

"Alright, so here's the final stand on things before we hit the surface," he said to Jazen as he felt the course of the transport shift, taking them down to the serene world below. "Cerea, as you know is a relatively low-tech world. It's people are free, and very much in harmony with nature. They take care of their world, and in turn, it takes care of them.

"For the most part, they've been content to go on like this. They live in piece, and as far as anyone can tell, they're happy living as they are." He sighed and gently tossed the datapad onto a small table in the center of the room and leaned on it, placing both hands out to hold his weight.

"However, there's been a recent uptick of violence, due to the actions of a small group of Cereans that want to make a push for allowing more technology onto the world. The Cerean government has pushed back against it, obviously, and things are starting to deteriorate. There's been a few shootouts between government forces and this little group, and a few days ago, there was a bombing."

He sighed and stood up straight and ran a hand through his hair as he looked to Jazen. "So, the Cerean government has asked for our assistance in dealing with this. I'm not going to say which side is right, because that's something the Cerean people have to decide for themselves, but this group is going about things the wrong way. I'm hoping that we can reach a peaceful solution to all this, but, if we can't..." Locke shrugged solemnly. "We'll do what we must.

"In any event, this is a chance to improve relations with the Cereans--maybe even get 'em started on the path to joining the Republic. We'll be touching down very shortly, and docking at one of the Outsider Citadels. From there we'll meet with one of the heads of the Cerean policing operation and he'll take us to meet with some government officials. Hopefully we can get this mess sorted out, though I think it's safe to assume we'll also be involved with apprehending whoever is behind these attacks." A smile played at the corners of his lips as he chuckled softly. "We'll be busy, that's for sure."

Locke walked over to one of the viewports and looked outside. Gone was the darkness of space; now they were within the Cerean atmosphere now; he could see the surface of the pristine world far below, slowly rising to greet them as they continued their descent. "Ah, well, I'm sure we'll do just fine, right kid?" he asked, turning back to look back to his student with a wry smile. "We always do."

[Jazen]

Jazen barely noticed the shift from hyperspace to normal space as the transport carrying him and his Master broke slid from it, powering its way towards the planet below them. Sweat poured from his brow as he watched the seeker droids circle around him, looking for an opening. He had no lightsaber in his hand; no, these seeker droids had a different purpose. Instead of the normal seeker droids, which fired stun bolts for the user to deflect, these ones instead used small thrusters to slam into the target. This meant they had to be countered with hand to hand tactics instead; redirecting their path or countering them with brute force. So far....Jazen was doing so-so.

Bruises covered his uncovered forearms and he knew the rest of his body would be similar. He probably shouldn't have been trying this kind of exercise before a mission, but all his recent battles had gone poorly and he used every chance he could to try and correct that. Besides, this was meant to be a diplomatic mission; no combat would be needed. Correction; should be needed. His eyes never left the droids, but he knew Locke was pacing around the small ship, a datapad with details concerning their mission in his hands. Jazen had gone over the thing till his eyes bleed during the first half of the trip and was constantly picking out details even while training. Lord, did it make his head hurt.

Jazen was just about to backhand the latest set of attacks when Locke spoke, catching Jazen's attention. He muttered a single word towards the oncoming droids and with a sudden beep, they thudded to the floor below them. Turning to his Master, Jazen slipped to the floor as well, crossing his legs as he sat upon the cold metal. He fought the desire to slip into a healing trance, even though what Locke was telling him was stuff written in that datapad. Still, it would be rude not to.

Jazen remained silent as Locke explained the situation again, in the short version more or less. A planet of people who chose nature over technology. Being an individual who lived on a planet literally coated in tech, Jazen didn't think a planet could go on with life without using some form of technology. Even the simplest weapon could be considered as such; but he supposed this meant in a machinist sense. And it would be a treat to see a planet not baked in the flavor of machines and industrialization.

Still, as with all good things, something would come to put it to the end. Not everyone on the planet Cerea believed that surviving off of nature alone would be good enough. This group, fanatics from the sound of it, believed their world would be better with the introduction of technology. Of course, they had showed how technology could better their world by using it for harmful attacks. Not the best way in his opinion to prove their point.

So the plan, more or less, was to try and find a middle ground on which the two factions of Cerea could stand upon. Hopefully, it would not take any violent actions to achieve this means, but both Locke and Jazen knew that when dealing with those who believed deep enough in something to openly attack their own kind, that was unlikely. Still, one could hope, could they not. He followed his master with his eyes as Locke moved to one of the viewports to survey the approaching planet. Jazen had to avoid snorting in response to Locke's comment about them always doing well. Yea, if getting beaten almost to death, running all over a city while getting shot at and dealing with more Sith than one wanted to over a lifetime in just a few weeks was doing well. Shrugging, Jazen leaned back to lay on the floor, stretching his weary body and slipping into a healing trance for the final approach.

"If you say so Master. Although if what we do is "fine", then I'd hate to see what it would be like "not" to do fine."

[Nightender]

"I'm sure that your title will be a great influence, Lady Madora." Alindra lowered her head to her superior, realizing how much deference could help her with her mission. Quickly realizing what Lady Madora's decision meant, Alindra slightly altered her tactics. A noble in the service of a Sith Lord might prove to be an even better weapon.

Alindra looked at Looma. She wasn't sure if she should incite the Twi'lek to action, but she knew it wouldn't help to cut her out either. Looking at Looma, she said, "I have quite a few things available, if you're interested." Alindra didn't wait for a reply though. Landing was coming closer and Alindra knew she had to put on the proper face.

Taking a moment to step aside and change, Alindra looked at the box holding .925 inside. "You know," she said into her comm unit. "This mission is about conversion. We need to 'help' the Cereans see that the Dark Lord is the only true divine power in the galaxy. Anything that helps with that serves our mission. All you need to worry about is doing your duty and addressing Lady Madora and Looma with the proper respect. In fact--" Alindra pointed upward with a single finger, realizing something. "Use proper titles with everyone, especially Lady Madora and Lady Looma. The Cereans will be paying close attention to you."

Stepping away, Alindra found her wardrobe, finding a slim dress, long, black, with gold trim. She fixed her hair to suit such an expensive garment, reluctantly setting the feather she wore out of sight. The feather was a bond she shared with her lover, a spectacular creature who had given her the feather from his own wing as a way of contacting him. Once she'd dressed, Alindra added a gold aura of spikes over her crown and a thin gold veil which she let hang down her back. Over everything, she put on a red silk cloak with a hood, hiding her lightsaber within the fabric.

She looked at her reflection and felt good about herself. She didn't look anything like a conqueror or a zealot, especially when her purpose involved both.

[Foxfire]

(Occ- sorry for the very short post going droid -mission first-)


.925 replied simply with .....

Yes Master.

Tying into flight control he noticed they were with in fifteen minutes of their landing site and reported so.

Master and ladies of the Sith we are landing in fifteen minutes please ready for landing planet side.

.925 now had the mission objectives in mind and he will take his led from his master, but if any being was to harm her they would answer for it with their own blood.

[Mara]

The older Sith was quiet for a while, no doubt thinking over all their options for the best way to complete their duties here, Looma thought. She took the time to look over Alindra a bit more then, but not being able to divine much from the other girl. All three of them would be divided as strangers, but united as Sith with a common goal. Hopefully that would be enough for them to trust each other, at least far enough that they could follow through with what was required on Cerea.

She was surprised a bit when Shandari did finally speak, partly because of her words, but mostly because the Twi'lek hadn't gotten used to the Rilan's manner of speaking. The older woman was mute and communicated solely through the Force. Looma managed not to show her surprise too much outwardly, though, recovering quickly and listening to Shandari's words, her ideas.

Looma had thought Alindra's idea a solid one; if they had marched in there all dressed as Sith, the people they were meeting with might be a bit startled and more reticent to ally themselves with the dark side. Sometimes matters like this took a lot of persuading, careful words, subtle prodding. All skills she knew she didn't have personally. And so she was a bit taken aback by Shandari's words. It was all right if she did not use a disguise, but surely she did not want all them arriving with all the subtly of a herd of rancors?

Curious to see how Alindra would respond to Shandari's own plan, Looma turned her violet eyes over to the younger woman. Perhaps her response would help her gauge the other's personality and skills a bit. The girl seemed unfazed by the Sith master's words, flowing seamlessly into a new idea. Looma had to be impressed with that.

Having apparently made up her mind to still use different clothing and wear a disguise, Alindra offered the same to the Twi'lek before going off to change. For a moment Looma hesitated, not sure what to do. On one hand, she thought it a better plan to use a disguise and to appear at the meeting as someone other than a Sith. But on the other hand, part of her thought that Shandari might look down at her for not wanting to proudly show her new heritage. And the end of it though, she decided to go with her gut. Surely the older Sith could not disagree with her going with her master's teachings?

The yellow Twi'lek excused herself from Shandari and went to the boxes of clothing, hoping that something in there would work for what she had in mind. She picked up a few items and found an empty corner to swap out her current wardrobe for something new. Something she never thought she would find herself wearing. While Alindra clearly was going the noble Sith servant route, Looma had decided to instead dip a bit lower, transforming herself into a dancing girl, a lure to anyone who might be wavering on allying with Shandari, and the Sith.

Memories of her older sister Leaf being taken away as a slave when she was still a toddler haunted Looma as she changed, removing her cloak and tunic. She kept on the leggings but ripped them shorter so that they wouldn't show through the shoddy costume she was trying to quickly fashion out of one of the gowns found in one of Alindra's boxes. Looma pulled the dress apart into long scarf-like pieces and wrapped the purple-hued cloth around herself, having chose the color to match her eyes and complement her skin. And with her leather headband and head-tail covers, she was fairly sure she could look the part.

She would have to figure out later just how far she would let the ruse go, she thought, as she found a place to tuck away her lightsaber and shards bag unobtrusively. One last glance at herself in a small mirror she had found, and Looma was sickened at the image she saw. Though, in a corner of her mind she knew one person would love it. And she used that image to bolster her confidence to walk back to the others, in what she thought was almost completely nude.

A deep breath and she walked as confidently as she could back to where Alindra and Shandari waited, hoping that she had not made a grievous mistake by dressing the way she did. There was no time before they landed to change again. If she somehow endangered this mission she wouldn't be able to forgive herself. Nor would she be able to face her master after she returned to Korriban. Trying to ward of any stares from the other females, she spoke up when she again stood among them, using the Force to keep her voice and body steady. "I thought a Twi'lek dancing girl could help persuade anyone who was unwavering in allegiance, more than a second noblewoman might. Or perhaps..." she looked towards Alindra. "Perhaps I could pass for your slave." Saying the word almost made her cringe, but she pressed on. "Either way, I trust that neither of you would let the ruse go too far? I want to complete the mission, but I am putting myself out on a tree limb here." Looma hoped he wasn't sounding whiny but instead sensible.

[Hotel]

The woman thought to herself as both girls went off and did their own thing. She needed time to think anyways. This mission would be tricky for one like her. However, this new girl, Alindra, could be of some great help. Her plan was decent. She would just use her to convey her words to the representative, since she felt communicating to them her way might be a bad way to start things off.

She then followed after young Alindra. After the girl finished changing, she stepped forward, her voice echoing within her head. "I would like for you to be my voice today. I would assume it would be better for you to talk then myself, as me being in their heads might not help out ventures." She looked the girl over as she spoke, giving her a nodding approval.

She turned as she heard Looma approaching, unable to hide the slight smile upon her face as she saw how she was dressed. Once more her voice would bounce around the young twi'lek's head. "So you wish to play the role of my slave? Remember, once we leave this ship, there will be no reconsidering your decision." She then offered each girl a nod.

[Nightender]

Speaking for the Lady Madora would be a great honor, one Alindra only hoped she would be worthy of. She bowed at the notion of such an idea. "Thank you, Lady Madora. I would be happy to serve as your voice. Instruct me in what you want said and I will gladly relay it."

Alindra was faintly aware that her statement might have sounded too much like she was trying to simply please Lady Madora, an aggressive tactic to gain her favor. But Alindra didn't see favor with the idea of Looma playing the role of a slave. Alindra's own past as a slave made her feel hurt to see an ally standing in such a role. It made her feel ill to even think that it was a willing arrangement.

Still, prepared, Alindra readied herself to speak to the Cereans. They would be able to hear what she had to say and embrace the new levels of industry she would advocate. Of course, she would also find many to convert fully to her way of thinking, making them disciples of the Sith.

[Rugs]

Locke shook his head a bit at the emotions that rolled from Jazen when he made his statement about them doing fine. He didn't even need Jazen's sarcastic quip to know how his student felt about it. "I never said things were always easy, did I?" he asked, turning back to look at Jazen out of the corner of an eye. "But we pull through in the end, and trust me, that's the way things usually go." He snorted a soft laugh as he turned back to look out the viewport, watching the clouds start to drift by as they entered Cerea's atmosphere.

"'Sides, what we've done so far, save Umgul perhaps , is pretty much par for the course for the life of a Jedi. I'm going to blow your mind with this, kid, but it's not a job for the weak of heart or spirit." He looked back to Jazen then for a moment and started up toward the front. "Shocking, I know. Perhaps, once this is done, I'll go around and give speeches to children. I can see it now--Locke Nemsee's 'Why You Don't Want to be a Jedi' tour, bringing little dosages of reality to the Galaxy, one kid at a time."

He left Jazen then, snickering to himself as he went up to the cockpit of the vessel to check in with the pilot. They were well within the atmosphere now and the fields of Cerea stretched out endlessly below them. "Pretty place," he remarked.

"Lives up to the stories," the pilot responded. He was a somewhat portly Twi'lek--the same one that took them to Umgul, in fact. Locke liked him.

"It does. Shame it's being marred by the fighting." Locke looked around at the scenery below them.

"Yeah, well that's what you and Jazen are here for. Hopefully you two can put an end to it all."

"And gain an ally in the process." Locke laughed softly. "That would be wonderful, we'll see how things go." Silence fell over the cabin for a few moments, and then he spoke again. "So you know the plan for when we touch down?"

The pilot shifted their course, turning them south and east, to a large black structure that rose up from the surrounding plains off in the distance. "Well, when they hailed us after we dropped out of hyperspace, I was told that someone would be sent to meet you at the landing pad. So I guess you'll wait for them to arrive, if they're not there already."

"Sounds good." The two watched the citadel grow larger as they approaced it, and after a few minutes, Locke turned to go back into the heart of the ship to prepare for their departure. "Let's hope this goes smoothly." Not that things ever went smoothly, especially considering the situation they were walking into, but he could hope.

"We're here," he called to Jazen as he went about checking to ensure that he had all of his weapons and some extra power packs for his blaster, along with a few flimsi, in case they were needed. The ship shifted as if on cue, with a gentle thud as it set down onto the landing pad. "We'll be greeted by some Cereans, who I expect will lead us somewhere. With any luck, this'll be over with relatively few problems, but we both know how these things usually go." He let the power pack that was currently in his blaster, and nearly depleted, fall to the floor and replaced it with a fresh one. "Remember to be observant for any signs of trouble. I doubt our terrorist friends will let this go undisturbed if they've caught any word of our visit. However, that might play out well for us, if we can stop and capture them. We'll have to see how the dice fall, though."

He stuck his hands in his pockets and grinned at Jazen as he walked over to stand near the exit ramp. "Let's hope Master can keep his manners about him, eh?"

With that, the doors pulled open and the ramp decided. Locke started down toward the landing pad, and with those first steps, the mission began in earnest.

[Jazen]

Being partly into the healing trance, Jazen was unable to really move or make comments lest he break his concentration. So at Locke's words about how this was a life a Jedi led, Jazen deemed to give the best shrug he could without moving too much before focusing on the wounded parts of his body. He was mostly just bruised from the batter seekers as he called them; and even though he wasn't great at healing, he could at least speed up the repair of the damaged area around the bruises. Carefully, like a fisherman reeling in a big catch so they didn't snap the line, he poured life into those spots, helping new cells to replace the injured ones.

It didn't take as long as he thought, the Force guiding his actions and aiding in its process, so he was able to break from it for a few moments to focus on Locke once again. He luckily came in after he had mentioned Umgul, so that particular word slipped by him. If he had heard it, Jazen might have let his currently peaceful mind drift back to those events and the negative power they held over him. But he didn't hear Umgul, so his mind focused on the words he did hear, the one's about Locke teaching small children about why becoming a Jedi was a bad idea. Jazen gave a gag, which was appropriately timed with the small laugh that snuck its way up his throat, so the laugh came out as a sort of heaving snort.

"Lucky for those kids then that they'll be too young to actually understand a word your saying in most cases. Besides, its not like many of us actually get a choice about whether we become Jedi or not; least, not right away.

"Your kids Force-Sensitive?" Bam, to the temple with them.Well, most of them anyway. Not that its a bad thing making sure those like us are properly trained and away from the influence of the dark, but you gotta admit, we recruit faster than the army does. Remind me to rub that in some of their noses the next time they get high and mighty on us."

And with that, Locke headed into the cockpit while Jazen slipped back into his trance to finish mending. He felt the ship lurch and bump as it broke into the atmosphere, then stabilized as it came down to land on the platform the Cerean's were granting them. Shaking off the last of his trance and the surges of pain from the bruises on his body, Jazen moved to watch the planet pass by them via the small viewport in the side.

All that he could see was endless fields; even though the ship was moving forward, the outside scenery appeared to be frozen in the image of those fields. They weren't displeasing to look at but Jazen hadn't expected the planet to look so dull. As they came upon their destination, trees and other flora sprung into view, giving a much better view than the empty fields from before. "I wonder how much of this will fade away if the Cerean's increased their technological level?" Jazen thought to himself. Shaking off that idea, he turned to the approaching footsteps of his master.

Double checking he had his lightsaber where he wanted it, he shifted his robes a little before picking up his pack, hefting it and slipping his arms through the straps. Sure that he had it nicely, Jazen moved to Locke, following in behind him as they waited for the ship to fully land and the landing ramp to descend. He felt the thud of the ship touching down, then the hiss-wiss of the ramp slipping away from the ship. Falling into step behind Locke as they moved down the ramp towards their welcoming party, Jazen shrugged and sighed at Locke's comment, then grinned a little.

"Yea, I hope you do remember to mind them this time. I'd "hate" to have to tell Master Talau your teaching me bad manners again. And I'd "hate" to have to look like the better mannered Jedi too.""

[Mara]

(((I think it's my turn (for the Sith group).
If not, let me know.)))



Standing there in her homemade slave/dancing girl outfit, Looma was feeling a little self-conscious still. Even though she had kept her leggings, though shortened to barely-there shorts, on underneath, she was still basically almost nude in her way of thinking. The strips of the purple gown were the only things between her yellow skin and prying eyes. She had kept on her boots, though, hoping they didn't look too utilitarian for the part she was playing. Looma knew it would behoove her to be prepared for if anything went wrong, and she wouldn't be able to run very fast barefoot, despite Force training. Overall, she was just feeling very cold and vulnerable, even though she knew she had her lightsaber tucked away in the back.

Looma crossed her arms, hugging them tightly to her chest, almost antithesis to the approving nod that Shandari had given her, but trying to keep her face neutral. She had thought to be Alindra's slave, but either way, she would still be disguised. The yellow Twi'lek nodded at Shandari's words, understanding what the older Sith meant. There would be no time for her to change, even if she wanted to. And she didn't. Despite everything, Looma knew this was her best shot with the group to get the mission accomplished. Even if they got separated, she could use her 'lower' status among the other servants and slaves, perhaps gaining other useful information. No, she was prepared, and wouldn't turn back now. "I'm ready."

She felt, then, something radiating through the Force from Alindra. Looma couldn't really put her finger on it, but it felt negative. Perhaps the girl had wanted the Twi'lek to portray her slave, not Shandari's. Or maybe she just didn't like the fact that Looma had torn up one of her gowns. Whatever it was, there as definitely something that felt like disapproval towards her that Looma felt a little unsettling. But she couldn't let it bother her. Shandari herself had approved of her decision, and that should be enough.

None of that mattered any more, anyway. The mission was about to begin; the ship was coming down for its landing. She could focus on nothing else but the smooth completion of what they had come her to Cerea to accomplish. Looma's job now would be to listen and help Shandari and Alindra where she could, but to mostly fade into the background, letting the others lead. It was something she would be comfortable doing, despite the clothing or lack thereof she was wearing. After Subterrel, it was a boon to her to be able to just stand back and let others work for a change. It would help her forget the sometimes throbbing pain in her right lekku. And simply just move on with her life, before she could rejoin her master.

[Kella]

Ann-May-Sing turned to look over her shoulder, to make sure the two Jedi were still in tow.

"We are almost there," she said in her slightly lilting voice, flashing a practiced smile.

The young Cerean placed both her hands on a heavy wooden door, and pushed it smoothly open, inviting the Jedi through.

A soft diffuse light spilled at her feet. The far wall of the room wasn't a wall at all -- it was panel after panel of crystal-clear glass. Elegant metal trim framed the Cerean landscape -- a snaking river, rioting hills, fluttering fields and stocky mountains in the distance. The room was bare of all fixtures -- lights, furniture, wall hangings, none of the accustomed or expected could be seen. In the center of the room's floor was a woven hemp rug, and in the center of the rug, a Cerean man sat. He faced the window, legs crossed, and for the moment ignored a pile of parchment papers at his knee.

He turned at the sound of the newcomers, and rose smoothly to his feet.

"Welcome, Jedi!" He said warmly, bowing slightly at the waist. The man looked middle-aged, with salt-and-pepper hair spilling down the crown of his conical head to a tie at the nape of his neck. He wore a simple tunic and pants, nothing to belie the height of his rank.

"Ambassador Tsing-Tun-Mok at your service." He shook each of their hands in turn. "Thank you for coming on such short notice. Welcome to my office," he said, gesturing for them to join him on the rug. "Is there anything you require? Drinks, refreshments?"

He dismissed May-Sing to attend to their requests, and the drinks he had insisted upon them. Sure that his guests were attended to, his expression became more serious.

"I'm afraid my jovial habits can be counter to expressing the gravity of our situation. Though it has been centuries since the Arkanian Trespassers defiled and disgraced our home, the memory is still fresh in the mind of the Earth. We live in harmony with nature, but these uprisers, in their insolence and ignorance, threaten not only what we hold dear, but who we are. Whatever you decide must be done," He looked emphatically at the Jedi, "We will do all in our power to aid and enable you."

[Rugs]

Locke snickered at Jazen's comments and paused to look to the boy, smirking a bit. Were Talau actually his master, Locke might have been concerned. Maybe. "Now Jazen, I assure you, any insults I give are, without a doubt, deserved." He turned back, continuing on his way away from their ship. "I'd never speak ill of someone's mother unless they'd absolutely done something to call for it." A moment was allowed to pass in silence. "Well, most of the time, anyway."

Lighthearted though the banter might have been, Locke did not for a moment let his focus on the task at hand slip. Both of them were here to handle a very serious matter, and he'd be sure to do everything within his power to make sure it was resolved satisfactorily. His senses stretched out through the Force for a few moments as they waited for their greeter to arrive. Locke looked around through the Force, testing and probing its waters for signs of disturbances. There were ripple there--a sort of thin tension that lurked just beneath the surface, but he couldn't tell from where it came. Nothing stood out yet, and perhaps that was cause to be pleased, but not to settle back on their heels; they'd only just arrived, after all. The sources of all the trouble would be found in time. He knew that much.

It didn't take long for their greeter to arrive and take them away, to meet with the ambassador. Locke nodded to her in greeting and went off after her lead, following and looking around as he continued to probe as he could through the Force. Still, nothing stood out, but that tension was there, ever lurking...

Before too long, they were in the room with the ambassador. Locke's eyebrows lifted slightly at the far wall, which was a massive window that offered a view of the stunning landscape that stretched on outside the outsider citadel. "Take a good look, Jazen," he said through the Force to his learner, "that's what's at stake here." True, the decision to incorporate technology or not was ultimately up to the Cereans, but would ones who were willing to kill their own over the issue be willing to take care of the pristine world they were so gifted to call their own? Locke had his doubts about it.

Locke met the ambassador's bow with one of his own and shook the hand that was offered to him. "It's a pleasure to meet you, Ambassador. I am Locke Nemsee, and this," he motioned to Jazen, "is Jazen Solari, my learner."

He started down to sit, furrowing his brows in thought for a few moments when Tsing-Tun-Mok made his offer of refreshments. "Some tea for me, if you have any," he said, glancing over to see if Jazen wanted anything. Once that was done, he looked back as the ambassador spoke, nodding grimly.

Locke sighed and crossed his fingers in his lap, meeting the ambassador's gaze directly as he began to speak. "Ambassador, I'm the sort to be straight-spoken, so I'm going to do as much for you. We are here to help you bring the ones that are carrying out these attacks to justice. We hope that, in the process, we can build a stronger tie between the Cerean people and the Republic, though we are committed to aiding you in your request above all else.

"The technology question, though, is one that we will leave to you and your people. We can offer advice if requested, but it's ultimately a decision that affects the lives and future of the Cerea and the Cerean people, and as such, we will respect the wisdom of you and your government."

He smiled and clapped his hands once softly and then rubbed them together. "Now that that's out of the way, we can get down to business. I've read the reports that were provided to us--multiple times, in fact, and I noted that these terrorist attacks have been picking up in both frequency and severity. Obviously, whoever is working against you... this faction, isn't going to stop until their goals are met or they are forced to stop." He grinned wryly at the Cerean sitting before him. "That would be where we come in, yes? Tell me, have you gotten any new intel since the report you sent us? Any information on where these people might be operating from, or what their next target might be? The ideal situation would be to strike them before they can carry out another attack, but if we can't, we might be able to catch them in the act, before they can pull it off. That's a big risk, though."

[Jazen]

Jazen in kind snickered to his Master's response to his words. Jazen bit his lip as Locke continued on, barely keeping the grin on his face from overcoming his protesting cheekbones. Had to give it to Locke, he did know how to make a serious situation like this at least cheerful, despite the weight of the matter before them. That thought brought Jazen back to reality and the task that had been set before them. Negotiations and matters of politics, while part his studies, weren't his strong suit; he'd be following Locke's lead during this mission, chipping in where he felt he could and also learning by example.

"Well, do keep those insults to yourself either way. I highly doubt our mission will go well if we insult the very people we are trying to aid, deserved or not. Even if they remind me of cone head bug mounds......"

Jazen felt Locke reaching out in the Force to their surroundings, which Jazen had been doing since they had exited the ship. The planet was strange in the Force; while he could sense to calm and peaceful area they were currently in, there was a tension underneath the calming mask of peace. And there....there was something else beneath that mask, a disturbance that Jazen couldn't figure out nor pinpoint with his lesser skills. Maybe Locke could; and if it were anything serious, he was sure his Master would inform him.

Memories of Alderaan came to him at this, remembering how everything was simple and easy on that mission, yet had become a walking nightmare. And that feeling of unease was the same Jazen had felt there, but with a slight edge to it this time. Maybe it was nothing, maybe it would be everything. Still, nothing could be done till they got a better lock on it or it choose to show itself. Had to love the situations where you were in the dark till the rancor was practically bearing its fanged mouth upon you. Course, that seemed to be what every Jedi mission was like. Or at least the one's he and Locke had been on lately.

Following in their guide's wake, they were soon ushered into an office that showcased the Cerean landscaping in all its splendor. And the room itself mirrored that. Jazen quickly noted that there were no sources of light aside from the natural light coming through the window. How did one see when day became night quickly entered his mind, but he kept that question to himself, slipping quite comfortably into his role as student and learner; which meant to keep his mouth shut and to let Locke do the talking. A single man sat in the middle of the room, who quickly turned to his guests with a smile.

Jazen bowed in response to his bow, then shook his hand when the man offered his to him. Locke's words in the Force rung in his head and with a glance to the landscape again, he could silently agree. Coruscant, in all its splendor, was a world that now lived completely off technology. Even its rain had to be created, its natural life long covered in the endless city that the planet was. He could see that some places might choose natural beauty over an artificial one, and this place was leaning towards the former. The use of technology was ultimately up to the Cereans, something Locke had stressed on their way here. He had plans and details in case they asked for advice on what to do should they want to incorporate technology, information that was stored in Jazen's datapad that was in the backpack he held among other things. Remembering that the room lacked any artificial light, Jazen suddenly felt the datapad might not be needed nor liked either.

Sitting beside his Master, Jazen focused on the conversation between Locke and Tsing-Tun-Mok. During which, he was letting his mind work, thinking of what aid he could ask of from the ambassador. The intel they had received had given a great amount of information about the attacks and what they had encompassed. But what a normal person could see was entirely different from what a Jedi could see. So visiting those sites for themselves might yield something the investigators had missed, if only something they would need the Force to find. He waited for Locke to finish speaking before clearing his throat to speak.

"On the matter of aid, Ambassador, there are some things I'd like to request. Its obvious from just looking that these citadels and the city itself are quite large; a map would be greatly appreciated. That way, should it be needed, we can move about on our own without dragging your people into unnecessary risk.

Also, we have the intel on the attacks, but we'd like to see the areas for ourselves. Simply adding the locations to the map will suffice for that. Finally, if you have any thoughts on where we might be able to learn more about these terrorists, perhaps even locate a possible place they frequent, would also allow us to do our job faster and hopefully, as Locke said, without needing another attack to take place."

[Kella]

Tun-Mok smiled at the young man.

"Jedi knight, your learner is eager, but it seems as if his mouth runs ahead of his teaching." He winked.

"I have spoken with my superiors," he continued, in a business tone, "And they have expressed willingness to consider supplying humanitarian resources and aid. We must protect the sanctity of our planet, but there is no reason we cannot share some of our abundant resources to help protect the sanctity of others.

"I appreciate your willingness to respect our decisions concerning technology. Few newcomers understand this. It was difficult even to convince the elders to allow me to call upon the Jedi, but I succeeded, and I sense my decision was the right one." He smiled.

"Risks are regrettably necessary," He continued, "but as you have deferred to our wisdom regarding our way of life, I will defer to you regarding the fate of these terrorists. Their goal is nothing short of the destruction of all we hold dear. They must be stopped."

Tun-mok picked up a small stack of papers from the floor, leafed through them for a moment, then handed them to the elder Jedi. "This is all the relevant information, the newest on the bottom page."

Each pressed sheet of cellulose was covered with hand-written strokes, hundreds of words in a dark, bold print. Unfortunately, the Jedi would soon realize that a very many words could be used to say not very much.

May-Sing arrived with the refreshments, and silently distributed them. Tun-Mok thanked her, and requested that she fetch a copy of the Citadel's plans for the Jedi. She nodded, bowing slightly to the Ambassador before stepping outside the door again.

"If you should require any services or resources, do not hesitate to ask. We might not be able to meet all your requests, but I will do my best to ensure that you are provided-for to the best of our ability. The best place to start looking for the Terrorists would be here, in the Citadel. They have used technology in their attacks, and here is the only place to find it. But the outsiders are somewhat sprawled, but I can at least say that the East wing would be the place to start. Those are the cheaper apartments.

"There is one potential problem, though," Tun-mok set his tea on the floor, looking intently at the two Jedi. "Unless you can provide information about the exact time and place of the next attack... It will be impossible for me to get you permission to leave the Citadel. If we allow these times of crises to compromise our beliefs, then the terrorists have already one.

"I fear," His voice was hushed, "That the terrorists might enlist the help of outsiders. This is purely conjecture, but, if a hostile outsider were make it out of the citadel, and his or her presence could be confirmed... I could get you the permissions to exit the Citadel and track them down. I hope, hope and pray that it never comes to this. But I must trust you with the knowledge."

May-Sing returned with a small cartridge, the sort that would be inserted into a data pad. She handed it to the younger of the Jedi, with a polite smile.

"Is there anything else?" Tun-Mock asked, standing.

[Hotel]

As the ship came in for a landing, she couldn't help but feel the uneasiness coming from the young Twi'lek. Turning to her she reached out to the young girl's mind once more. "Just as your master would do, I will not let any harm or unwelcome attention come to you. No one would dare even risk touching the supposed property of a Sith Lord, and any that try will soon find it to be a mistake." Through Shard she had begun to respect the Twi'lek, something very few managed to earn from her, and she hoped she could help to ease her nerves in whatever way she could.

As the ship landed, she motioned for the two to fall in line behind her. She nodded to the pilot as he informed them he would remain until they returned, then turned to face the ramp as it lowered, and walked down it and onto the planets surface.

[Foxfire]

With the ship landing Taym had commandered a worker bot in the cargo hold to move them on to a floating barge with a few other items of possible use. this way he would be able to follow closely his Master and come to aide in a moments notice. .925 readied his servos and tested his gears. A stiff motor joint of squeeky servo would call atention to the condition of his being. He had to be ready for the defence of his master.

The bot Taym guided out of the ships cagro hold and began to follow the Sith ladies. Ten feet was the optimal distance for .925. The bot had very little in the way of sensors or motor function but still .925 had to deal with and try to keep up with them. He knew the plan but fleshies plans never went the way their supose to go.