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Bothawui


Tarrian Skywalker

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"Training?" Ads always hated this question; his answer was so complicated even he couldn't be sure that got all the details correct. "I've had all kinds of training. Formal, informal, and it hasn't all come through the Jedi Order. I was first trained at the Jedi Academy years ago by Master Raven. I had a couple of other trainers in the years following that, but they were almost of no consequence. For a short time I was training as a Blademaster, but that was cut short like almost all of my other training. I've had a few trainers recently, as well. But I've never really gotten into very much training, and I certainly don't feel like I have any grasp on the Force compared to what I see and hear about other Jedi."

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Generally, hitting someone in the head with your weapon kills them regardless of whether they're wearing a life-sustaining mask. I'm pretty sure this is general combat strategy whether your target is Darth Vader or some thug on the street.
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Kirlocca could only shake his head. His response, which had to be paused as there was a noise outside their room. Upon finding it was still safe to talk, Kirlocca spoke up with maybe a bit more sternness within his own voice.

 

<< No, I need to know what sort of skills you have been taught, so that I don't assume anything with you on this mission. >>

 

The truth was that Kirlocca feared he might have to use a bit of the Force to help them out in this situation. But on the other hand, if Ads was not as well trained as the Jedi Grandmaster thought, his plans would have to fit around those circumstances accordingly.

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Sensing the Grandmaster's caution, Ads glanced at the door before responding.

 

"Well, I can draw on the Force to help me jump, run, manipulate objects, push and pull them. Most of my Force skills are telekinetic, although I can detect other people's presence and with some effort, I could probably sense their motives. But I can't manipulate anyone's mind or do any of that stuff that seems to be where the *real* power of the Force lies.

 

"Oh, and I've heard there are different ways of thinking about the Force or philosophies about it or something, but I don't really know anything about those."

V4yWwXl.png

Generally, hitting someone in the head with your weapon kills them regardless of whether they're wearing a life-sustaining mask. I'm pretty sure this is general combat strategy whether your target is Darth Vader or some thug on the street.
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Kirlocca was perplexed at the fact that Ads had been around for so long, and yet never learned how to handle a lightsaber, as such information was left blank. With a slow nod if his head, Kirlocca made sure that Ads knew he was processing the information.

 

<< So it would be best if we stayed away from situations that could end up involving a fight of sorts. >>

 

Kirlocca would have liked to make sure that Ads knew that the real stuff, as he put it, was only a mastering of the stuff he had already learned. But such a time was irrelevant, as almost as soon as he finished, there was a loud knock at the door, followed by it's opening with Akao and two other Bothan's entering the room.

 

"Dirrm is ready for this meeting to commence. You can follow us now."

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Ads was about to suggest to Kirlocca that he could handle himself in a fight, but the words had not yet left his mouth when a sharp rap on the door announced the arrival of their hosts. It was Akao at their head who informed the Jedi, "Dirrm is ready for this meeting to commence. You can follow us now."

 

Ads bowed to Kirlocca as he subserviently offered, "After you, Master."

V4yWwXl.png

Generally, hitting someone in the head with your weapon kills them regardless of whether they're wearing a life-sustaining mask. I'm pretty sure this is general combat strategy whether your target is Darth Vader or some thug on the street.
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Kirlocca made a bow towards Akao as she then escorted the two out the hall, down the stairs and into a large dining room area. With all the fancy things, it was clear where the Bothans in the higher society of life put their priority. For Kirlocca, it really didn't mean anything as he was used to being surrounded by all sorts of fancy stuff during his travels as a Jedi. Upon entering the dining room area, there was a large table in the middle with a great feast already laid out upon the table. Dirrm, who was clad in purple and gold clothing was standing at the other end, offered up a polite bow towards the Jedi and indicated where he wanted at least for Kirlocca to sit.

 

<< Thank you Dirrm for seeing us on this matter. >>

 

"I'm not even going to lie, with our past interactions with each other, I thought you and the Jedi would have flat out denied any request to come a talk. But I'm glad that you and me both can put the past behind us."

 

<< I have been hunted by many, both physically and with words. I hold no ill will towards those who meant me harm. But may I introduce to you a young apprentice of the Jedi Order, Ads. I have brought him along with me to observe only. >>

 

Kirlocca then took his seat next to Dirrm. The Jedi Grandmaster did take notice that Akao sat opposite of him in a posture of heavy defiance. Ignoring the clear upset Bothan, the Wookiee made sure he would focus upon the Bothan who thought a good outcome could come of this meeting between the two sides.

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Upon Kirlocca's mention of his name, Ads bowed to Dirrm, but did not speak. Cautiously approaching the chair on Kirlocca's right (but not taking it, just in case), he noticed Akao sitting opposite them, the reflection of the candlelight flickering in his eyes certainly aggrandized the antagonistic air about Akao. And that alliteration was only partially forced (that being the word "aggrandized"). I would have made an alliterative note about the (un)intentionality of my alliteration, but the word alliteration actually alliterates on the l because the a is an unstressed syllable, so the word alliteration would only have been part of a tautogram. But I digress; suffice to say that Akao looked more antagonistic toward Ads and Kirlocca due to the reflection of the candles in his eyes.

 

Looking at the feast laid upon the table for the representatives, Ads couldn't see any food that he recognized, but that was not an issue; he was used to eating alien foods and most of it basically tasted the same anyway. Although Ads wasn't completely sure that he would get to eat at that table. He had no idea how Bothans felt about apprentice-observers at diplomatic negotiations, although he hoped they had nothing against them.

V4yWwXl.png

Generally, hitting someone in the head with your weapon kills them regardless of whether they're wearing a life-sustaining mask. I'm pretty sure this is general combat strategy whether your target is Darth Vader or some thug on the street.
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Kirlocca took notice that neither Ads nor Dirrm mentioned anything and the Bothan took his seat. Although, Kirlocca had hoped that Ads wouldn't say anything, just as he had instructed him to do. Following the lead of Dirrm, he sat down as well, almost immediately by followed by Akao, who seemed to be unwilling to let the Jedi Grandmaster show her up in any fashion.

 

"I'm glad that you can bring along someone to observe. Back in the days when we first held our interactions, you came alone or with damage control. I recall Ara or Lei was present for most of those."

 

Kirlocca allowed a laugh to be very loud. Back then was true indeed. Ara and Lei seemed to always be present with him during such talks, mainly involving wars or battles. They always held a level head and could somehow see the potential the Wookiee held long before he realized what sort of potential it was that he himself had.

 

<< Those two always were around to keep me from running my mouth in a bad way. >>

 

Kirlocca somehow felt at easy upon the soft chuckle from Dirrm, as he was also entertained by the thought of the two of them in the past. Or at the very least, Kirlocca in the past.

 

"As entertaining as the past was, I do hope that we both learned from it enough to work together to find a solution to these problems. Plus, with the recent bounties being collected on those within the Senate does seem to place a bit more urgency on these talks."

 

Kirlocca nodded his head as the rooms mood did seem to take a turn for the more somber role upon hearing the mention of the collection of bounties. The Naboo senator, as well as an attempt on the Corellian senator as well. It was an issue that was pressing those on the verge of leaving or staying within the Galactic Alliance.

 

<< Yes, we will make sure that the past is able to help us now in the present. >>

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((Sorry it's taken me a while; I've been busy and didn't want to be distracted))

 

Ads recalled the names of the Jedi who had previously accompanied Kirlocca, Ara-Lai Kaipi and Lei-Kim Ness. It heartened Ads to be even incidentally listed with them. Of course, Ads couldn't really be there as damage control (not that he knew what damage to control nor how that was even possible with a Wookiee), but it was still an encouragement nonetheless. Perhaps what interested Ads the most was that Kirlocca chose to bring him on this mission. Ads had no idea how he had been selected as Kirlocca's apprentice, so the gravity of the situation really seemed to indicate the intentionality of the decision.

 

The discussion at hand became significantly darker at the mention of bounties collected on senators. With a government so far-reaching bounties, or at the very least attempts on senators' lives, were not rare, but the fact that those seemed to have succeeded and were playing a factor in the Bothan conversation demonstrated their significance. That Ads had not heard about such important developments made him acutely aware of how removed he had been from the rest of the universe lately. The camaraderie that Dirrm and Kirlocca seemed to share, along with Dirrm's willingness to work together with the Jedi, served to alleviate some of Ads' concern stemming from the other Bothans' attitudes.

 

<< Yes, we will make sure that the past is able to help us now in the present. >>

 

Ads noted the Grandmaster's brevity and choice of words. He did not make any claims, nor did say anything with which either side could possibly disagree. Negotiations can be cooperative and fruitful only when both sides work from common points of interest. Ads felt that these negotiations could have a large impact on the galaxy at-large and the shape of its future. He was glad to have Kirlocca leading the discussion.

V4yWwXl.png

Generally, hitting someone in the head with your weapon kills them regardless of whether they're wearing a life-sustaining mask. I'm pretty sure this is general combat strategy whether your target is Darth Vader or some thug on the street.
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Kirlocca did take a strong mental note of how both Dirrm and Akao reacted to his words. Their movement hinted that both wondered as to why he would hold so steadfast to being neutral. Ads, which Kirlocca could feel within the Force was a bit more curious than the Jedi Grandmaster would have thought. But he really had no time to glance over at him and see what his face told him, as Dirrm began to speak, rather loudly.

 

"I must admit that these talks over a withdraw is being taken very heavily upon the Bothan people. Bothawui has always been loyal to the Republic or the Rebellion when it first started out. So leaving them is not something I plan to do without making sure I make the informed decision. Plus, there is a great pressure from multiple sides that Bothawui take each factions own opinions on which way we go. The Imperial Remnant would rather us leave and join them, mainly for our fleet. The Galactic Alliance wants us to stay so that they can maintain their image, but there might also be a bit of longing to keep our fleet apart of theirs as well. And then there is some outsiders who would go so far as to place bounties upon senators in order to create a war. So naturally, they want us to withdraw. But then there is the Jedi, whom take a very neutral position against this whole thing. I'm curious as to why, as well as to what your own opinion is on the galaxy's current state."

 

Kirlocca drew in a breath and than almost immediately let it out. This wasn't about their stance. They already made up their minds. It was more upon why the Jedi were so distant. Within the Jedi Master's own mind, he wasn't sure that voicing his stance would be great enough for a swing away from where they currently stood. It was in this very situation that Kirlocca had wished that Kitt Fitt was still around within the Jedi Order. It was always his thing to talk things through. Not Kirloccas. Which is why is always normally had Ara or Lei by his side. Carefully shifting within his chair, Kirlocca placed his paws upon the table, grasped within the other paw.

 

<< I must agree that my own stance does drive a bit of curiosity within my own mind. Part of it is the lack of pursuit the Jedi are allowed to take. Part of it is allowing the Jedi Order to go back to its own roots. But I don't believe that our stance is a real reason to compare your own choice. >>

 

Kirlocca then leaned back and cleared his throat, as an obvious gesture that he would continue to speak.

 

<< But my view on the galaxy is this. Most of the Galactic Alliance believes that peace can be achieved through having an open policy. The back worlds in the Outer Rim are far less willing to be apart of something that can't never truly affect them. Even back during the Rebellion versus the Empire, they held the same view. For them it doesn't mater whether or not the Sith, the Jedi, the Republic or the Empire is running around controlling things because the truth is, none of us can change their lives or effect it strongly enough to make a difference. The galaxy isn't something to be claimed or controlled. Our job as a Jedi Order is to live in harmony with it and aid it where we can. So naturally, your claims of withdraw put a bit of disharmony within the galaxy, so here we are. >>

 

Kirlocca now leaned forward, but this time kept his paws at his side and not on the table. As he did, he turned towards Ads.

 

<< Is there anything you would add to that? >>

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As no one had taken the seat beside Kirlocca, Ads decided that it must be meant for him. Ads calmly sat down, wanting to look neither apprehensive or overly nonchalant. He was listening intently to Kirlocca's explanation of the position held by the Jedi when the Wookiee turned to him.

 

<< Is there anything you would add to that? >>

 

Ads was surprised. He hadn't expected to speak during the meeting, but Kirlocca was asking for his opinion. Ads stumbled over his words for a moment before regaining his composure.

 

"Um, uh, I have--I may not look like it, but I have fought in multiple wars and countless skirmishes. I have seen their devastating impact on both large and small scales. It seems to me that perhaps the most...important consideration in your decision may be what will bring the least pain and suffering...I do not know whether that means specifically for Bothawui or for the galaxy at large, but I see peace as one of the greatest...end goals of any decision in this matter. Of course there are other important facets, but the safety and preservation of the people may very well supersede all others."

 

Ads glanced to Kirlocca beside him before looking across the table at Dirrm.

V4yWwXl.png

Generally, hitting someone in the head with your weapon kills them regardless of whether they're wearing a life-sustaining mask. I'm pretty sure this is general combat strategy whether your target is Darth Vader or some thug on the street.
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Kirlocca looked over at Ads as he spoke on his own stance, and then turned his head immediately to Dirrm, who moved his left hand to stroke the fur under his chin. The Jedi Grandmaster looked carefully at the Bothan across the table from him, completely ignoring Akao. Kirlocca himself was no curious as to what was the whole point of bringing the Jedi in if such a decision was already made. A slight tingle ran down his spine, yet Kirlocca could not place why. Almost as soon as it did, Dirrm spoke.

 

"I think I owe you enough to not drag you along Kirlocca. I can see it upon your face, you know a choice was already made. What I really brought you here for was protection against the bounty threats."

 

There it was. Kirlocca was almost floored by the outright of it. Carefully considering his own words as a tally in the talks, the Jedi Grandmaster shifted in his chair for a more upright position.

 

<< You must realize that having a Jedi present during any point or portion of a Bothawui withdraw does not help any image of the Jedi Order, even if it is for protection. If we are to stay and protect, you must inform me of your decision. >>

 

And there was that tingle again. Kirlocca could place it. With a nudge through the Force, Kirlocca whispered telepathically to Ads. ..:: Excuse yourself and search the building quietly ::.. Kirlocca could only hope that Ads could process his words with such little training within the Force.

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  • 3 weeks later...

A voice pushed through to the front of Ads' mind, but it was not his own. He quickly recognized it as Kirlocca's.

 

..:: Excuse yourself and search the building quietly ::..

 

Ads stood up and turned to a waiter and asked which way it was to the bathroom. After being pointed the right direction, Ads headed down the correct hallway before making a "wrong" turn that took him down a hallway following around the conference/banquet hall. As didn't know what kind of threat he needed to look for,or even who would be making any attacks. But he looked around the outside of the hall, trying to feel if there were any hidden threats. He couldn't find anything, though.

 

Master, he called out in his mind, trying to stretch any telepathic ability he had (which was almost none), guide me. Why am I looking for?

V4yWwXl.png

Generally, hitting someone in the head with your weapon kills them regardless of whether they're wearing a life-sustaining mask. I'm pretty sure this is general combat strategy whether your target is Darth Vader or some thug on the street.
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Kirlocca didn't look to see when Ads stood up and left the room, as Kirlocca wanted it to look more natural that the Jedi padawan was just going out for a break. But the Wookiee did take notice of Akao looking for a brief second in the direction of Ads upon his excusing himself from the room. What the Jedi Grandmaster was looking for was anything that might hint to what the warning of precognition urged by the Force was all about. Even as he did, Dirrm continued to speak.

 

"Well I must allude to you Kirlocca. This was not the most ideal circumstances I would have brought you in. But with the recent increase of activity, I felt it far more important to persist the coming storm, versus the public image."

 

Kirlocca could hear within his own mind Ads voice, requesting for more information on what he should be doing. Keeping his eyes focused upon Dirrm, he responded back. ..:: You are looking for anything that could be perceived as a threat towards the Bothans. Stretch your feelings, expand your mind. You will find what you are looking for. ::.. Kirlocca knew that time was now working against them, as the threat he could feel within the Force was bubbling over.

 

<< Regardless of what you feel is best for you, I have an entire Order to look after myself. What is your decision? >>

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Kirlocca's response came back quickly and simply:

..:: You are looking for anything that could be perceived as a threat towards the Bothans. Stretch your feelings, expand your mind. You will find what you are looking for. ::..

 

"You will find what you're looking for"? It sounded like Kirlocca was sure of an imminent threat...but why would he have sent Ads if it was such a threat? But if it were a threat to the Bothans in particular, that could change matters altogether. The Bothans had a keen interest in the flow and contol of information. Could it have been a spy or some sort of bug? Ads leaned against the wall outside the conference. He tried to extend himself, to sense who or what could be in that room, in particular. He clearly sensed Kirlocca. Both his presence in the force and his physical being were immense. He couldn't specifically make out anyone else in the room although he could feel their presences. He thought he could sense Akao at first, there was a strong amount of ill-will present. But then he realized it was coming from more than one Bothan. But is it a threat or just someone with a similar attitude? That thought took Ads in another direction: what was Akao's motivation? Was he a threat? Hell, he didn't even know for sure that Dirrm wasn't playing the Jedi or even his own people. Either way, Ads didn't consciously feel anything that would seem to be a bug or a physical threat, not that he necessarily could have recognized either of those. But there was something tugging at his mind, something just out of reach. What is it? he asked himself, unsure of in which direction he needed to "expand his mind".

 

With such an important summit occuring, the building would almost certainly be empty except for any non-essential personnel. Ads stretched his mind to feel who was not at the banquet. That was a large group, though, and Ads wasn't able to really sense anything useful. Think, think, think. What could Kirlocca have recognized? Ads glanced at the mural at the end of the hall. It was a reminder of the Bothan ar'krai: total, genocidal war waged by the Bothans when their species was at risk. Ads hoped that the threat wouldn't culminate in ar'krai. It certainly felt like time was fighting against Ads. But what did that matter with the Force? Ads knew its power well; how could it let him down in such a crisis situation? Ads needed time to think; time that he didn't have. Wait...if the Force gave Ads great speed and allowed such great projections of thought...could it accelerate my thought? Ads found himself entering his quarters, although he couldn't remember guiding himself to them. With the seclusion he needed, Ads sat down and focused. Ads tried applying the same concept he used to run with the Force to his thoughts, but that simply made him feel as though his mind was spinning ten thousand times a second. Shaking off the loss of focus and physical dizziness, Ads changed his approach. More thoughts each second didn't necessarily mean he had to think more. Time, being no different than any physical dimension, should be harnessable just as well as his speed. Ads tried to curl time and slow down time around him. He did not know if time actually slowed down, but he did have an idea about this threat.

V4yWwXl.png

Generally, hitting someone in the head with your weapon kills them regardless of whether they're wearing a life-sustaining mask. I'm pretty sure this is general combat strategy whether your target is Darth Vader or some thug on the street.
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The next few seconds happened rather quickly, and almost too much on cue. Kirlocca could sense Ads working hard to track down the threat perceived through the Force. Dirrm talked of an upheld honor. Akao sat with the same resentment towards Kirlocca and the Jedi. The situation was surreal, and it felt like a page out history for the Jedi Grandmaster.

 

"...You see Kirlocca, the way the galaxy works now, is that friends are judged heavily by their actions taken for one another. You risking involvement is on the very same level as me bringing you here without knowledge of either the Galactic Alliance or my people. So something must be sai-"

 

Right then and there, Kirlocca's own precognition went full frenzy. A natural instinct took over and Kirlocca was out of his seat spring into the air to take a spot to deflect the now incoming shot at Dirrm. In a blaze of quick light, Kirlocca's silverish blue lightsaber buzzed the air as he moved into a perfect position to defend the shot. But almost as soon as he stood to face it, in prime position, his danger sense still flared. And then he heard it, the familiar sound of sniper riffle going off. But rather, it echoed. Turning his body ever so slightly, Kirlocca attempted to use the Force to swing his blade around Dirrm to create around him a shield of energy to deflect the incoming blasts. But had to stop before he could even get it going into a full frenzy, as Kirlocca's lightsaber deflected the initial shot, as well as a second one from the Senators side. But two more, which were clearly perfectly timed made impact with their target.

 

And there it was. Dirrm Gir’tey, a once former great Fleet Captain turned Senator. Now dead within his own confines of his house. Kirlocca could not move from his spot on top the table as he stared in disbelief at the manner of which the Bothan had come to death. All the while, Akao stood in a full panic, calling in security to quickly figure things out, as well as to move herself from whatever danger she thought herself to be in. Deactivating his lightsaber after a few short seconds, Kirlocca got off the table and awaited Ads, whom the Jedi Grandmaster knew would be on his way upon sensing the death, and hearing the panic of Akao.

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Ads was on his feet before the sounds of blaster fire reached his room. His Concussion Rifle was in his hand and his Disruptor Rifle was slung over his back before he reached the door. Of course he already had, as always, a microblaster hidden in his boot. The Bothans were, for some reason, trusting enough to have not searched the Jedi. Otherwise there's no way Ads would have been allowed any of the weapons he was currently carrying. Where are they, Master? Ads called out through the Force, referring to the assailants whose blaster fire he could hear ringing through the hallways, commingled with the sounds of Kirlocca's lightsaber slashing through the air deflecting the shots. He felt Dirrm's life flash out of existence and could hear Akao shouting at the guards, a note of pure terror in her voice. Ads set himself up right outside the wooden doors to the banquet hall, ready to blast them off their hinges with a shot aimed at an assailant from his concussion rifle. Ads knew it would sting a bit when the ball of ionized gas hit the doors, but there was no way the assailant would be able to escape the destruction its final impact would work.

 

A flicker of doubt crossed Ads' mind; he had been too slow. Ads pushed it aside and out of mind, but it was not quenched and it did not die. Ads had more important issues to deal with.

V4yWwXl.png

Generally, hitting someone in the head with your weapon kills them regardless of whether they're wearing a life-sustaining mask. I'm pretty sure this is general combat strategy whether your target is Darth Vader or some thug on the street.
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Kirlocca took a single moment to observe within the Force each feeling of all those who were now slowly occupying the room. Akao was the person whom Kirlocca focused upon the most, as he held interest in what her next move would be now that she was the next Bothan to fall into power at Dirrm's death. But his own focus was lost upon hearing the security finding a total of four sniper riffles, all of them with a timer trigger upon them. Kirlocca quickly made his way over to where the security gaurds were examining the timers and made a note of his own findings within his mind. Turning around now to go in search of Ads, Kirlocca was stopped by Akao, who was still frantic.

 

"Where are you going?!?!"

 

<< To find my padawan and leave. >>

 

Even as Kirlocca said it, he reached out in the Force and called Ads to him so that the two could leave. But it seemed that Akao was not satisfied with his response.

 

"But Dirrm was just killed. I could be next!"

 

<< You'll be fine. The bounty was only for Dirrm, not you. >>

 

Kirlocca did his best to try to push past her, but she was persistent to keep the Wookiee within the room with her. And she showed a bit of strength that he was not expecting within her.

 

"So that it? Dirrm dies, and you refuse to stay on the planet for any reason?"

 

<< You need time to recollect from todays events. Besides, you're about to take over for Dirrm. Once you get things in order, make a call to the Jedi Order and we will resend a Jedi here to talk. >>

 

Kirlocca somehow knew that Akao would not be satisfied with this response either, but the longer he remained, the more questions would be placed upon the Jedi Order by the outside press, which even now the Jedi Grandmaster was sure were notified and on their way.

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As Ads noted that the banquet hall was quickly calming down, he felt Kirlocca calling to him through the Force. Standing up and loosening his grip on his concussion rifle, Ads opened the door in time to hear Kirlocca telling off Akao. The Wookiee was clearly trying to get around the Bothan, but despite being barely half of Kirlocca's height, Akao stood her ground. The converation between the two delegates certainly raised questions in Ads' mind, but he wasn't about to ask them in front of Akao and the other Bothans. Ads saw Dirrm's body out of the corner of his eye. He knew it wasn't his fault, he couldn't have possibly known what to look for, but that flicker of doubt held its ground and refused to leave him alone. He tried to push it aside as he awaited Kirlocca but he couldn't quite stop the nagging in the back of his mind. I'll feel better once we're away from this place and Dirrm, he thought. It was most definitely not the first dead body Ads had seen, but despite having first laid eyes on Dirrm a few minutes prior, the Bothan's death seemed to be having an unusually strong effect on the apprentice.

 

Suddenly realizing that he was standing at the entrance to the scene of an assassination carrying two extremely deadly weapons, Ads hoped no one would question him regarding them. Before the thought had left his mind he already had a cover story: he'd gone back to his quarters to get some medicine to reduce the "stomach cramps" that had caused him to go to the bathroom, when he heard the blaster fire and grabbed his weapons. Is it bad that I think up lies so quickly?

V4yWwXl.png

Generally, hitting someone in the head with your weapon kills them regardless of whether they're wearing a life-sustaining mask. I'm pretty sure this is general combat strategy whether your target is Darth Vader or some thug on the street.
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Kirlocca took a single moment to look upon Ads as he walked into the doorway, clearly out of place and feeling a bit awkward. But his time to reflect upon the obvious nature of youth was reduced by Akao, looking very stern with her expression. Her fists were clenched, but not with anger. It was out of habit of not getting her way. It was a trait of hers that she held since Kirlocca first met her. It was slightly amusing the the Jedi Master.

 

"I don't really want Dirrm's job. I'll offer the spot up for re-election, and then continue to pursue my own course. You should know better than to say such a stupid thing, you scruffy ball of fur."

 

Kirlocca's own amusement was almost shattered upon Akao breaking all forms of her political nature and form to berate him. Although insulting, the Jedi Grandmaster kept his own facial expression the same.

 

<< You're not off to a good start. Why is it so important to you that the Jedi remain on planet? >>

 

Kirlocca motioned for Ads to come stand closer to him. While it could mean a potential position used for an excuse to leave, it also showed a unified front. Whatever that means. Akao's own face changed, flashing perhaps maybe a bit worry.

 

"Jedi can investigate. They've done so before. Plus, you and Dirrm served together during the hight of the war. You staying shows respect for Dirrm, as well as innocence to the people of Bothawui. The Jedi presence being here helps resolve the unrest of the Bothan people, as well as to show them that not everyone in the Galactic Alliance is out for their own selfish ways."

 

That statement did catch Kirlocca off guard. Since arriving on planet, Akao showed herself to be against Jedi involvement in the process that the Bothans were about to take. Plus, she held a great disdain against the Jedi. Whatever her reasons for changing course must have been political or something else. Either way, it gave Kirlocca the answer he was looking for, whether she knew it or not.

 

<< Akao Den'kji, you've changed your tune since us arriving. But as a form of flattery, we will stay for the preparations of Dirrm's funeral but nothing more. We will not spend our time discussing any relations between the Bothans and the Jedi or the Galactic Alliance. >>

 

Kirlocca wanted to hear no more from Akao, so he bowed before her, giving her just enough respect. But then he escorted Ads out of the room and towards their quarters.

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Ads was baffled by Kirlocca's change of heart, but he couldn't say it seemed wrong for the Jedi to stay after everything that just happened. From what he knew, Jedi tended to be heavily involved in any investigation about events they were involved in. He wasn't sure what Kirlocca's motivation was in hacking the pair stay until Dirrm's funeral given everything huge had already heard Kirlocca say.

 

When the two of them were on their way back to their quarters and he was sure they were alone Ads turned to Kirlocca and asked, "Master, at first I was going to ask you why we weren't going to stay, but now I think the question is why we are staying until the funeral? It would seem to make more sense to either stay for a full investigation or leave now. What does this accomplish other than show respect for Dirrm?"

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Generally, hitting someone in the head with your weapon kills them regardless of whether they're wearing a life-sustaining mask. I'm pretty sure this is general combat strategy whether your target is Darth Vader or some thug on the street.
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Kirlocca turned to face Ads, but kept his walking pace towards their quarters. He had a good question, as it still baffled Kirlocca himself. Taking a moment to let out a breath, Kirlocca made sure that his tone of voice was a bit quieter, as some of the Bothan security guards were through the halls.

 

<< It serves no purpose to stay and investigate, as I already know who killed Dirrm. And no investigation by me will stand in any form of Court. Secondly, it does help the image of the Jedi Order to remain behind for a fallen war hero, especially one who has served along side two Council members. >>

 

Kirlocca turned his head forward to walk around a bend into a hall that housed their quarters. Once the Jedi Master opened the door, Kirlocca added a bit more to Ads.

 

<< Besides, this gives me a good time to give you some training. >>

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Ads was taken aback by Kirlocca's admission that he knew who had killed Dirrm. As he entered his quarters, Ads stepped over to his bed and took a seat on its edge, thinking about what Kirlocca had just said. Glancing at the door, Ads spoke in hushed tones.

 

"How do you know who killed Dirrm?"

V4yWwXl.png

Generally, hitting someone in the head with your weapon kills them regardless of whether they're wearing a life-sustaining mask. I'm pretty sure this is general combat strategy whether your target is Darth Vader or some thug on the street.
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Kirlocca just stood near the door as the two entered the room. The Jedi Master found it more interesting to watch Ads and his own reaction and body language. He seemed to be more focused upon something else that was not training, to which almost shocked the Grandmaster. He would have thought someone in Ads position would prefer the training part. Even as Ads spoke up his concern of what was on his mind from the edge of his bed, Kirlocca could tell that he was aged and far closer to the Jedi Trials than he thought.

 

<< The timers. Each of the four timers were set to very specific times. The back and two side riffles were set at the same time. The front one, which was fired first was set lass than a half a second ahead. >>

 

Kirlocca now watched and studied Ads for his reaction this time. He was far more certain that if he was right about Ads being so close to the Trials, the boy would not disappoint in his response.

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Ads, hearing Kirlocca's somewhat cryptic response gave a moment of thought before responding, "That means it was someone who knew how to defeat a Jedi? If no one knew we were coming, does that mean it was...no, well, are you saying it was Akao?" If he was, then why did Kirlocca want to leave so quickly? It seemed unlikely to Ads, but he could see a possible motivation for Akao wanting such a threat to be realized. It seemed a bit harsh from what Ads knew of Bothan culture, but if a rival stood in her way, perhaps Akao could take extreme measures.

V4yWwXl.png

Generally, hitting someone in the head with your weapon kills them regardless of whether they're wearing a life-sustaining mask. I'm pretty sure this is general combat strategy whether your target is Darth Vader or some thug on the street.
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Kirlocca shook his head at the conclusion of Ads reflection. He was close, yet not quiet there.

 

<< No. Not someone who knows how to defeat a Jedi, but rather, someone who knows how a Jedi will react; How I would react. More detailed being, someone who know what the Jedi Precognition looks like. Someone who knew exactly where Dirrm and I would be sitting. >>

 

Kirlocca kept his eyes keen upon Ads. He was certain that Ads was about to come to a full understanding just shortly. If the boy took his time to reflect upon the entire conversations, actions, and words spoken since arrival, Ads would figure it out.

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Ads was shocked by what Kirlocca seemed to be saying. Dirrm and Kirlocca knew each other very well, he could only see one possible meaning to what the Wookiee was saying.

 

"It was Dirrm's plan?!"

V4yWwXl.png

Generally, hitting someone in the head with your weapon kills them regardless of whether they're wearing a life-sustaining mask. I'm pretty sure this is general combat strategy whether your target is Darth Vader or some thug on the street.
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Kirlocca gave Ads a simple nod of his head as his first indication that he nailed it. With his arms now folded across his chest, the Jedi Master spoke in hush tone.

 

<< Dirrm has had plenty of time around me and Onderin Starlisk during the height of the war. In fact, the request for either one of us to be present during these talks. >>

 

Kirlocca now unfolded his arms and moved to sit down at the end of his own bed within the quarters they were given.

 

<< When I first saw the timers, I held some suspicion as to whether or not it was Dirrm. I wanted to originally leave to research some files in the archives to see if it was at all possible. But then Akao made mention to him serving with me and Onderin at the height of the war. It was right then and there that I knew without a single doubt that he had killed himself. >>

 

Kirlocca now refolded his arms across his chest again. Although this time he lifted a single paw to rest his face in. Clearly trying to process a question he was sure Ads would ask him; Why.

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-- Incoming Comm for Kirlocca using Jedi Encryption --

 

"Master Kirlocca, this is Onderin Starlisk. I trust you are well?

 

"I am on Ilum, where the Temple was recently infiltrated by a group of Sith and one other individual with whom I understand you have interacted. The Jedi here discovered the ruse and have imprisoned the intruders. I have just spent some time talking to the one called Qaela, whom I believe you confronted on Cloud City. She has described to me a set of circumstances in which you separated her children from her, presumably for their own good."

 

There was a slight pause. "I have a strong feeling from the Force that this decision needs to be reversed, and I have agreed to return Qaela's children to her. However I can find no record of where they are currently being kept. Can you provide me with their location?"

 

-- End Comm --

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There is nothing good in war. There is good in why we fight them.

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((I'm just going to act like that went to Kirlocca's answering machine.))

 

It seemed like a bit of a stretch for Kirlocca to make, but Ads couldn't find any flaws in the Wookiee's reasoning. It seemed a bit extreme for Dirrm, but Ads had only known him for a few minutes and Kirlocca had fought alongside Dirrm. Who was Ads to question the Grandmaster on a matter such as this?

 

"So Dirrm must have thought that by his assassination the Bothans would be more likely to withdraw from the Galatctic Alliance? It wouldn't make sense for him to want to stay in unless he thought the GA would provide the Bothans with better security after his death."

 

Ads looked across the room at Kirlocca, wondering what would come about because of this. Would the Bothans withdraw? Would they find out that it was all a ploy from Dirrm? Was there even any hard evidence to support Kirlocca's theory? Ads had never seen this side of the Jedi, but it caused him to look at a much larger picture than he was used to viewing. He enjoyed that it gave him an opportunity to analyze the situation and think about it as so much of his everyday life had been cut-and-dried and didn't provide him the smallest quantum of stimulation. Ads hadn't expected being a Jedi to be like this, but he couldn't complain.

V4yWwXl.png

Generally, hitting someone in the head with your weapon kills them regardless of whether they're wearing a life-sustaining mask. I'm pretty sure this is general combat strategy whether your target is Darth Vader or some thug on the street.
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