Kara had wandered the streets in an aimless fashion, but it was not the case for the Corellian. She had her reasons for her path, learned by a lifetime of needing, or wanting, to not be predictable. Thus she felt confident that no one saw her, knew her, or was following her. She was mostly right.
Brim had been attached to the Scout Service and tracking was his forte. He also was experiencing many new things with the Force and he had been able to sense Kara along her path, so when he turned the corner and saw the low-profile cantina, he knew she was inside. The place was within a transient part of the town with spacers, smugglers, and other non-outstanding people resided. The cantina was simply called Starlight and it boasted the best music and gambling in all of Mos Entha. I wonder, thought Brim.
Inside, Kara had found a comfortable couch and had just purchased a drink from a Twi'lek girl in a very small outfit. The main bar room was full of loud talk, as the patrons needed to speak over the band that played in the corner. In a side room, sabaac tables and gambling machines were busy with people playing the stakes. Kara could see that some at the bar were trying to make deals with other patrons to get back into the casino to have one more shot at the big win, and that the lender would definitely get all of their money back. As she expected, Kare watched many disappointed losers. Some lay with head on bar, suffering from both alcohol and loss. Well, that was not her... she knew when to play and when to quit. Picking up her drink, she moved into the casino.
Brim walked to the Starlight's entrance and saw that like most buildings on Tatooine, there were stairs that went down into a subsurface room. It was a good way to make your place cooler temperature-wise. He walked down the stairs and entered the smoke-hazed bar. The band was just finishing a song and the lead singer was calling out that they were taking a break but would be back on in fifteen. The Rodian scanned the crowd and saw Kara enter the side room casino.
As he stood there, Brim felt a presence. It was a feeling that he had had around the Jedi, Ulric, back on Jovan station. He scanned the bar and room trying to pinpoint who might be affecting him so. Could there be another Force-user hiding within the folks of this transient world? Could this be another Jedi friend of Organa, and potentially be their contact? Brim shook his head. What were the chances that Kara would wander to the one bar in all of Mos Entha where their contact might be waiting? Little, he thought.
Brim's eyes fell upon a one-armed man as he puffed on a cigar. The drink glass in front of him was empty. The Rodian shook his head - that could not be the source of his Force impression. He continued to look around as he mingled with the other patrons.
Farok sat comfortably in his seat glad now that the band was taking a break. Suddenly, there was a twinge within him; a movement within the Force. It was not a dark presence and so he did not fear for himself - the Empire had shown itself on Tatooine, but he had not heard of any purging here of Force-users. He looked around and saw nothing, only a Rodian enter the room and merge with the crowd.
Sam had not wanted to leave the Aegis. He wanted to work alongside the droids managing the ship's servicing, but Caden had been persuasive. Now the two were walking through the streets of the hot city looking for purveyors of droid parts. It seemed a lucrative business here, but most of the parts - including fully operational droids - were junk. Sam knew from his memory programming that there was a species on this world known as Jawas that collected the refuse and brought it in to the cities to sell.
Finally with the help of a few credits being shown to prove that the money was there, the real merchandise was revealed. A droid maintenance shop sat quietly amongst three evaporator repair shops and the owner was a lean man who was all legs. His torso was way to short for his body and he had no apparent neck. Caden wondered about his breeding but did not let it get in the way of business. The shop owner's name was Ed and he waved Sam and Caden in once the credits had been displayed. The trio walked to a backroom and Ed entered a digital combination in a door lock. The door slid back to reveal another room, which cool air seemed to roil out at them. It was refreshing. Ed led them inside and lights activated automatically.
"Well, here is what I have. Take a look and let me know if you are interested."
There were many droid parts about in neat order based on part. Sam walked over to a stack of durasteel plates that looked like they had only recently been manufactured. He lifted a plate and turned it over. Inscribed in the metal was a part number and cut date, but the manufacturer stamp code was missing. It was stolen merchandise, taken from the manufacturing plant before the parts were stamped and inventoried.
Caden looked at other items. There was nice stuff here. Some new, but a lot of stuff cleaned and rebuilt. Ed knew his business well.
Even though her attempt to arouse Logar's interests had fallen short, the Zeltron woman knew that she had still made an impact. She smiled at Logar and again he felt flush, "No... I am not too familiar with weapons dealers. I hear that there is not much of that in Mos Entha. Well, if you should change your mind, I am happy to join you for a drink and show you round."
She ignored Kaida's dismissal, never taking her eyes off of the soldier as she walked slowly away. Finally, she winked sweetly and broke her gaze with Logar. It was then that he heard Kaida, "Let's go." She pulled at his tunic and Logar felt a little disappointed that he had not taken the Zeltron's offer. His mind was only half there as Kaida went on about his armor and gear and not blending in.
They moved towards the hub that the Zeltron had called the Acer. It was easily one hundred stories high and dwarfed the rest of the city's structures. There was a large round apron around the building with a wide, flat flight deck for ships of various sizes. Their movement was broken up as Kaida made quiet inquiries for dealers, materials, or any information on where such items might be obtained, but she met with the same answer each time, "Not here... the law does not allow for the sale of weapons. You need to go to Mos Eisley or somewhere else if you want that stuff."
But as Caden and Sam had found, credits talked. Kaida placed a few credits in a series of hands and by the time they had come to the Acer Hub, they had a name of a contact - Gorman Taxian - and they knew now where he conducted business. The noblewoman was hot and sweaty now, too, and had no desire to pursue Mr. Taxian for the rest of the day. Instead, she was intrigued at the services that might be available within the hub. Again she pulled Logar along to a paved entrance with large glass doors that was shaded by the huge circular flight landing deck above. The doors opened automatically and air conditioned air cooled them instantly. A porter quickly moved to greet them, "Welcome to the Acer! How can we help you today?"
Quote from: tomcat on Jun 16, 2011, 01:22 PM
Again she pulled Logar along to a paved entrance with large glass doors that was shaded by the huge circular flight landing deck above. The doors opened automatically and air conditioned air cooled them instantly. A porter quickly moved to greet them, "Welcome to the Acer! How can we help you today?"
Kaida smiled at the porter as the gust of cooled air caressed her. "Thank you. For now, a cold drink--with ice--is foremost on our list, and possibly a place to stay for me and some friends of mine."
It felt invigorating to get in out of the heat and she did not relish the thought of going out to see this Mr. Taxian today.
Farok took a long draw off of his cigar, things just got interesting. While he didn't prescribe to all the teachings of the Jedi, he knew it for a fact that when he sensed things it was usually important. The feeling came when the Rodian entered the bar. First he was distracted by thoughts of his old master and now this.
The first order of business was to get two drinks, on a gulping day getting two saved time. He kept an eye on the Rodian and tracked his progress through the bar keeping an eye on him and tried to get a read on what his business here was.
Farok guessed that he had just come from off planet. He didn't have the gritty sandy look that most people had after having been around for a few days. He also didn't look like a force hunter, but it was of personal importance to remain cautious.
The Rodian had looked right at him, he had felt the same thing he was sure of it.
Farok waved at one of Twi'leks, she had circled him at first but had determined early on that feeding the human a steady stream of drinks was all that was required. "Hey Eye Candy, two doubles this time."
Quote from: tomcat on Jun 16, 2011, 01:02 PM
There were many droid parts about in neat order based on part. Sam walked over to a stack of durasteel plates that looked like they had only recently been manufactured. He lifted a plate and turned it over. Inscribed in the metal was a part number and cut date, but the manufacturer stamp code was missing. It was stolen merchandise, taken from the manufacturing plant before the parts were stamped and inventoried.
Caden let out a low whistle at the shiny plates Sam held; he knew that they were hot, too - no way a guy like
this could have stuff like
that,
here, otherwise.
However...
"Sam," he said
very quietly, "we can't be too picky about what we're buying or who we're buying it from right now. Let's face it - we're already wanted for a lot worse than out-the-back-door metal."
"If it works, it works... does it work?"
He was already figuring out the angle he might take with the fence if the plates would keep Sam in one piece - he wasn't interested in losing his last friend.
The porter nodded with a smile and pointed at a set of escalators, "The resort frontdesk is up that escalator, and there are a number of restaurants, casinos and bars throughout the hub. Feel free to walk around and find something that suits. If you have things to bring in, just let the frontdesk know and one of us will lend a hand."
As the two took the escalator they noticed that the majority of the cultural, entertainment and government establishments were contained within the spaceport dome - as they were in all four of the domes. The hub contained a large multi-level, controlled environment hotel that catered to the tourist trade. Also contained within the dome were many government offices, shopping centers, restaurants, museums and theaters.
Logar began to notice the looks as they mingled in the crowds. There were not too many people armed moving about and his blaster rifle stuck out like a bright beacon. Kaida began to worry about the authorities making an appearance to question them as to their intent.
Logar just smiled at Kaida. He leaned in close to whisper. "If theres trouble. Ill be ready. If the authorities hassle us it might be wise if you speak to them. Tell them im your bodyguard, and your the queen of the galaxy or some such." It wasnt far from the truth in Logars mind. He intended to see that Kaida was safe. And she did have an air of nobility around her. Even covered in sweat. Even covered in blood she fit the part Logar thought.
Farok got his two drinks and managed to smile around the cigar he had in his mouth. "Thanks a bunch." He shot down one before the Twi'lek even had a chance to walk away and handed the glass back to her. "Old habit, since I cant really carry two." He grabed the second drink in his hand and made so as to observe the Rodian and determine what was a foot here in the casino.
The Twi'lek waitress smiled at Farok. He was a regular face here and she had become acustomed to his sense of humor. "Arni'soyacho! I'll put these on your tab, dwa'la." She referred to most of her cutomer's in this native Twi'lek word which simply meant love.
Farok moved through the crowd and entered the gambling room. The Rodian was standing there looking at a woman who had sat down at a Sabacc table. Kara brought forth her money and motioned for a drink. Chips were exchanged for credits, a tall drink was placed before her, and then the cards were dealt. The Corellian now felt at home. Brim, having watched it all from a few feet away realized that Kara was not getting herself into any trouble and so decided he'd join her. He walked over and squeezed in next to her, "So... what brings you here?"
Farok stood watching the duo. There didn't seem to be anything going on, save that the Rodian still made an impression in the Force. It was dangerous. If he did not know how to supress his connection to the Force, he would be recognized as a Force-user and either slain, or taken away and... who knew.
In the Starlight, another figure had paid attention to Kara, Brim, and now Farok. He watched intently from under his hooded cloak, and then stood and moved silently through the crowd and out of the cantina.
Quote from: sdrotar on Jun 18, 2011, 02:47 AM"If it works, it works... does it work?"
:ooc: They will definitely work.
Farok looked around the casino again. He really wanted to head back to the bar and leave the rubes to their own fate. He half turned to go and the nagging feeling returned. He had buried himself at the edge of the civilized world to escape from these troubles and problems of conscience and here they were still. He repeated to himself his own mantra, "lay low, don't come up on the grid, mind your business." Farok turned to go back into the bar and had actually taken a step in that direction when he turned around and found himself heading to the card table.
Farok studied the Rodain as he moved closer. Perhaps the Rodian was strong enough to sense him as well. Several scenarios played through his head on how to deal with this. Again the best seemed to walk away, but call it the legacy of training or the hand of fate he had to at least warn the guy.
Farok approached the card table, the effect of the booze he had been drinking all day washed off of him as his body prepared itself for action. He could feel the familiar outline of his lightsaber tucked in his cloak where his arm used to be. He didn't think he would need it, his senses told him so, but knowing it was there made him feel better.
Approaching the card table he approached the Rodian so as to not divide him from the female he was with. He could then read both their reactions to his approach. Coming up to him quickly and at an angle he called out to the Rodian when he was only a couple of steps away.
"Dak! Dak, how are you? How did you end up here?" He placed his drink upon the rail of the card table so that he could grip the Rodian on the shoulder and look him in the eye as he spoke. His grip and face tried to convey a message other than the words he used, that he knew he was not the person named, but to go along with it.
"When did you arrive? If you have a moment I have a table at the bar and a Twi'lek that is madly in love with me so I don't have to wait for drinks. Bring your lovely friend too if you want."
He leaned in to embrace his old friend and said quietly, "whether you know it or not you're in danger. Not immediately but will be."
Farok straightened and smiled, grabbed his drink and walked back towards the bar. Farok thought to himself, well he has been warned, the rest is on him. With a little luck he could go back to drinking with a clean conscience and the Rodian would blow him off as a sun baked drunk.
Quote from: Callowmoryne on Jun 18, 2011, 07:19 AM
Logar just smiled at Kaida. He leaned in close to whisper. "If theres trouble. Ill be ready. If the authorities hassle us it might be wise if you speak to them. Tell them im your bodyguard, and your the queen of the galaxy or some such." It wasnt far from the truth in Logars mind. He intended to see that Kaida was safe. And she did have an air of nobility around her. Even covered in sweat. Even covered in blood she fit the part Logar thought.
"Queen of the galaxy," she muttered and shook her head. That wasn't going well. She didn't want to chance the authorities. "Look, try to keep a low profile, ok?" she said in a smiling whisper as she walked. "Can't you cover that thing up or something?" All the same, she held her head high like nothing out of the ordinary was taking place and proceeded to a cantina. "Let's get a drink first."
Sam calculated the value of the plates he would need replaced (surely just a few, those that were the most blast-damaged) and ran them through some likely markup routines. He didn't like the numbers. His credit flow was low and he would not be a burden on his friends - there was that word again. Sam inspected some plates and scanned their dimensions and curvature to the nearest cubic micrometer. For interest, and drawing on his mechanical background, he tried to determine what these plates were actually meant for or if they were just generic. Selecting one more than he actually needed, he posed the query to Ed, "How much?"
:ooc: The base cost for a durasteel shell is 1600 (x cost factor 1), but I am going to subdivide this even more based on where the plates go:
Torso = 600 credits
Arms = 200 credits each
Legs = 250 credits each
head = 100 credits
I need to go through my books to see if there is a rule regarding the reduction in protection by armor due to damage, but for now I am going to rule that Sam's armor is reduced by 1 in efficiency due to the damage.
Ed's inventory markup is 50%, and Sam needs to replace his torso plating plus one arm and one leg... thus...
Ed looked at Sam and saw the plates on his torso and right arm and leg were peppered with holes. It was not detrimental to the droid, save to reduce the amount of protection the armor allowed. It also looked bad. The droid tech did a quick calculation in his head and answered, "For what you need to replace... 1,600 credits."
Logar followed the elegant noblewoman into a lounge that sat off of the main entrance to the Acer. The two strode to the bar and a well-dressed man approached, while swabbing out a glass with a clean towel. He eyed Logar, but said, "What can I get you?"
"I'll take a corellian wine--with ice." she flashed a smile at the well-dressed bartender to put the man at ease. "And don't mind my austere looking companion. He's just paid protection. He'll take a water... You got to keep them sober, after all." She rolled her eyes, sat down her elbows on the bar, with her hands clasped and resting easily under her chin, she tilted her head so the light caught it just right and looked at the bartender. "Nice place. Been here long?".
All the while, she kept alert for danger. From her experience, she didn't doubt that some bounty hunter or Imperial Agent was probably tracking her down--even here in this no-place dust bowl of a planet.
:ooc: She'll chit chat some with the bartender, flirting just a little so he feels easy and won't get alarmed at Logar's weaponry.
Persuade: 1d20+15 : 6 + 15, total 21
She'll also do a Gather Information to him and any she's sitting next to see if there's any goings on that might be of interest to her or their team,
Gather Information: 1d20+10 : 1 + 10, total 11
Sam was used to barter in his past and disliked the thought of giving up credits when he could offer his service in exchange. It worked on Jovan Station, maybe it will work here. He looked to Ed, "My primary function is a mechanic. I can give you 600 credits now and will work off the balance. I can handle almost anything you throw at me." Sam hoped he could back up his boasts and shrugged to Caden, "If we are here a few days, I might as well try."
:ooc: For Farok's post, I am going to leave Brim's reaction to chance... I don't want to start a fight between the PC's, but I am going to give it a roll to see if he will react counter to Farok's embrace. Of course, Farok is one-armed and drinking, so the approach may be seen as a sad, misguided drunk talking to a stranger... until of course, Farok makes his statement of danger.
Brim's intel 14 and I will give a +2 for Farok's
conditions. If I roll under 16, there will be no ill-reaction, if I roll above it, I will give you what happens in my next post narrative. Either way, the narrative post will be after I am home from the office.
:00: Need to roll under 16...
Rolled 1d20 : 3, total 3
Brim was taken aback by the apparent drunk and he stammered, "But, sir! ... I am ... not ... Dak." Then Farok's message passed between the two and the Rodian suddenly went on guard. He looked about left and right to see if there were any immediate dangers, and then at the one-armed man himself. Farok had now pulled away, smiled, took his drink and was moving back into the bar. Brim saw that the room full of gamblers, including Kara, were looking at him. Only the electronic bells and chimes of the slots filled the air. He straightened his shirt and nodded to them all, "Strange..." The word trailed off, and as if a sign, the room went immediately back to what it was doing. Brim looked at Kara and then turned from her, following the stranger. The Corellian sat a bit dumbfounded wondering what to do when the dealer asked, "You in?"
The Rodian followed Farok at a short distance and then moved to where he was now back at the bar. He cautiously approached, "It's been awhile... nice to be able to sit and have a drink!" He feigned a friendly smile and waited on the Twi'lek to serve him. Once the cocktail was in hand, he turned to Farok and spoke quietly, "Not immediately, but will be? What does that mean and who are you?"
Brim wondered if the man in front of him was their contact, or part of Organa's rising resistance against the Empire, or maybe just a good samaritan that had seen something and was giving warning. He sighed. Or maybe he was a charlatan with an agenda all his own.
Ed looked at Sam and Caden, "I have plenty of droids around here to work... it's what I do. So, no... this stuff is credits only, and they need to be the new Imperial credits, none of that CIS or Republic money."
It did not take long for Kaida's wiles to take an affect on the bartender. His concern for Logar, as well as the other patrons' concerns, were soon abated and they all three were chatting. The bartender spoke of Mos Entha proudly - the plush space domes that offered real work and brought in real tourists, with real money. He was happy to be living here where the Hutts had not much influence and the law was legitimate. The Empire had made its presence, but they had left Tatooine for the most part with its own governance. He smiled at the sad fact that the Hutt Kajadics were rooted so deep throughout the sector of space that even the Empire knew it had little hope of taking charge here, and so left the rule in the hands of the crime lords with an agreement that they don't cross any lines too far.
With Kaida's inquiry of what was going on, the bartender answered, "What are some things you like to do? Tatooine is really not that great of a tourist spot. We have sand and heat... and more sand. But there are some things that happen here that don't happen elsewhere. The Boonta Eve classic pod race will be going on in Mos Espa startining in three days. Besides that there are casinos, bars, some nice stores and restaurants... and sand." He laughed at his own joke. "If you decide to head out of Mos Entha, there are some more... unsavory... attractions, too. Fighting pits in Mos Eisley and some other bad things, but you don't look like those kind of folk." He set the current charges for drinks down in front of Kaida, "Can I get you another?"
Kaida noticed that the iced water and wine were 5 and 12 credits respectively. There was a fee for ice in the amount of 5 credits!
Farrok signaled his Twi'lek friend for more drinks and they soon arrived. "My apologies, my subterfuge was perhaps a little ill conceived, but it was done in haste. We share something in common, a certain sensitivity to things... These are dangerous times for people such as ourselves, whether you know you have the ability to manipulate these sensitivities or not you possess them, and must learn to shield them from others lest you be hunted like a rat in a hole, ignorance of them is not protection. There is little to fear normally here in Mos Ethna, few Imperials come here on that agenda, but there are those out there scouring the galaxy for people with powers that you have and killing them. You must be on guard."
Farok took a sip from his drink, "We are a rare and hunted breed my Rodian friend, rare and hunted. Ever see a trapped animal gnaw off a limb to get away?" Farok smiled and looked at where his arm used to be the Rodain followed his glance and saw now the heel of the lightsaber, "rare and hunted."
"My name is Farok."
Sam put the plates down, "I'll look elsewhere, then." Sam had the feeling it might be better not to look too new on this rock. He would sport the battered look for now.
Quote from: donimator on Jun 22, 2011, 08:01 AM
Sam put the plates down, "I'll look elsewhere, then." Sam had the feeling it might be better not to look too new on this rock. He would sport the battered look for now.
Caden watched as Sam put the plates down and started to walk out of the room, gauging Ed's demeanor - how badly did he want to make the sale?
:00:
Perception +9 Rolled 1d20+9 : 14 + 9, total 23
Caden could see that Ed was very interested in making the sale. The merchandise was not legally procured for certain, and to move it quickly from one's inventory would be the wisest of things, even on Tatooine. But Caden could also see that Ed had something invested in the materials, too, and the man needed to run a business.
Brim gave Farok a long look, reaching out with the Force as he did. It was true, this was the man he had felt upon entering the cantina. Another Force-user, the Rodian mused. "Well, Farok, I am Brim. It is nice to meet another sensitive such as myself. The last two I had known were slain, so I know the dangers that you speak of. Be aware, although I did not know it was you, I did sense you, too, so we both need to work on our hiding skills."
The Rodian took the drink that was handed to him and nodded in thanks at Farok, "So what has you living here on this out of the way world?"
Quote from: tomcat on Jun 22, 2011, 01:41 PM
Caden could see that Ed was very interested in making the sale. The merchandise was not legally procured for certain, and to move it quickly from one's inventory would be the wisest of things, even on Tatooine. But Caden could also see that Ed had something invested in the materials, too, and the man needed to run a business.
"Well..." Caden paused as they reached the door.
"Ed, let's see if we can make something work here; this is nice stuff, and I don't like having my droid look all beat-up."
As he walked back to the man, he lowered his voice and put his arm over his shoulder.
"I've got Imperial creds; that's no problem. What might be - for both of us - is the fact that these plates don't have serial numbers. Now, I get it, I get it - business is tough all over, and I don't really mind looking the other way. I can take these off of your hands right now and no one's the wiser, but we've gotta meet somewhere in the middle."
:00:
Persuasion +11 (http://rpg.avioc.org/boards/Themes/default/images/dice_warn.gif)
This dice roll has been tampered with!Rolled 1d20+11 : 9 + 11, total 20
His smile beamed. "Whaddaya say?"
:ooc: I didn't tamper with the roll - I just modified the post to bold-text the roll's skill for easier reading. By the way, like an idiot, I forgot that in Caden's original char-gen, his great-grandparents settled on Tatooine and were early investors there - it's very unlikely that Caden's never been there before. I modified his "lines" in the previous thread to account for that - they were just for flavor.
Farok out of instinct he looked around the immediate area.
"Yes that may be true Master Brim, but I knew it was you and you knew only that someone else was out there. There are two methods of hiding, in the middle of no where where you hope no one stumbles across you, or within a large group where they cant pick you out. In Tatoonie its possible to do both at the same time. This dive is in the middle of no where and filled with transients. Have you had any training? I dont mean the ritual and the nonsense, I mean actual nuts and bolts training? I....well here is not the place to talk about I. I half hoped you would think me a drunk and not follow me. then i could drink in peace with a clear conscious. I traveled around the galaxay to avoid our kind but perhaps all that travel was only to bring me here at this moment."
Quote from: tomcat on Jun 22, 2011, 06:13 AM
It did not take long for Kaida's wiles to take an affect on the bartender. His concern for Logar, as well as the other patrons' concerns, were soon abated and they all three were chatting. The bartender spoke of Mos Entha proudly - the plush space domes that offered real work and brought in real tourists, with real money. He was happy to be living here where the Hutts had not much influence and the law was legitimate. The Empire had made its presence, but they had left Tatooine for the most part with its own governance. He smiled at the sad fact that the Hutt Kajadics were rooted so deep throughout the sector of space that even the Empire knew it had little hope of taking charge here, and so left the rule in the hands of the crime lords with an agreement that they don't cross any lines too far.
With Kaida's inquiry of what was going on, the bartender answered, "What are some things you like to do? Tatooine is really not that great of a tourist spot. We have sand and heat... and more sand. But there are some things that happen here that don't happen elsewhere. The Boonta Eve classic pod race will be going on in Mos Espa startining in three days. Besides that there are casinos, bars, some nice stores and restaurants... and sand." He laughed at his own joke. "If you decide to head out of Mos Entha, there are some more... unsavory... attractions, too. Fighting pits in Mos Eisley and some other bad things, but you don't look like those kind of folk." He set the current charges for drinks down in front of Kaida, "Can I get you another?"
Kaida noticed that the iced water and wine were 5 and 12 credits respectively. There was a fee for ice in the amount of 5 credits!
Kaida shook her head and stood, and slid 20 credits across the counter. "No thanks, Daddy only says one drink. You know how it is. But you've been sweet. Keep the change. I may see you around." She smiled over her shoulder and then nodded to Logar. "Come on," she said under her breath, "We got to see Mr Taxian soon, I suppose. Let's get some rooms for the team first." She didn't relish the thought of going back out into the sun and heat.
:ooc: :csu: Marked off credits. She'll go to the front desk, once Logar has his combat rifle sufficiently hidden or otherwise non threatening, and reserve two rooms for the night--one for the ladies, another for the men, under an alias. She only has 190 creds left, so if they're too much, she'll sweet talk Logar into borrowing some of his cash. :) Then out on the street, she'll make contact with the rest of the team via commlink, explain that she has a suite of rooms for them and let them know she's going to help Logar make his purchase.
Kara was going from zero to drunk in as few credits as possible. She drained her glass and almost slammed it down on the table, yelling out for anyone who could hear within a few meters.
"Another Corellian Whiskey, cheapest worst brand you have, and make it a triple with no ice." Kara started to mumble to herself. "Frakking desert, stupid people live here, only a Sith spawn could enjoy this kriffing hell hole."
:ooc: Shawn, the Haggle rules state that on a DC 25 (towards indifferent characters) that you can reduce the requested price by 50%. Seeing as you only rolled a 20, I will still have Ed give a little - you will see it below in the narrative.
Ed looked at Caden. He sighed and returned a wan smile. The machinist did not like being taken, but neither did he like dealing in stolen stuff. He did, of course, but it truly tore at his moral core. "All right, all right... you can have them for 1200 credits, but that is as low as I can go."
The Bestinian could see that Ed was serious - he had dropped the plates to the lowest price he could without giving them away at cost.
Brim eyed Farok and wonderd at his true intent. He sounded genuine, although he did not speak the tenets of the Jedi Order that the Rodian had become so familiar with when he had worked side by side with the Jedi. Still, that was no surprise seeing as they were all needing to hide from the Empire. He also wanted to call Farok on his ability to see Brim, where as Brim could not see Farok - and to the Rodian that answer was simple - Farok had been in a crowded room when Brim entered, so it was a challenge for Brim to find him. For Farok, the only thing that had changed when he sensed Brim was that Brim had walked into the room. Of course the one-armed man knew it was the Rodian! But Brim thought it all a petty argument and let it quickly go - this could be a new friend and ally, no need to get into a competition of words now.
He answered Farok, "I have only seen the Jedi in action. I have never been immersed in their training and philosphies, though I am familiar with some of their tenets." He then bravely revealed from inside his tunic the end of his own lightsaber, "I know of being hunted."
It was then that Brim heard Kara shout out in her alcohol-induced anger, and he saw in the other room as some of the patrons turned a dirty look towards her. Even the pit boss was called over to see what the commotion was about. The Corellian did not seem to have any care regarding her outburst, her attention instead was turned to the the new glass of whiskey that was placed before her. It was apparent to Brim that Kara could end up flat on her face, cussing and drunk, and the cantina would not give a damn - it was in business to sell booze and if Kara's had credits, they would serve her up until she was either beaten, killed, or out of money.
"Excuse me," said Brim. He stood and made his way to the casino room.
Kaida waited until it was her turn and then met with the desk clerk of the Acer hotel. She reserved the room in her alias name and grumbled a bit as she heard the man say, "That will be 375 credits please."
The two paid for the rooms via their combined credits and were given a room key for each, and a beaming smile of welcome. Once done, the two made their way back on the streets. Communication was made to Caden and the rest, and then Kaida and Logar made their way north through the streets of Mos Entha. It was hot and they were once more drenched in sweat. The walk took them out of the business area around the Acer and into a district of tenements and shady garage businesses. Pubs and cantinas were scattered about as well, and the presence of trade in restricted or illegal goods was now prevalent.
Logar looked around to see if there was any sign of the Law here, but like most run down districts in cities, the money was not here, and so the cost of civil services was too high - thus the area was ignored. What this created was a zone of survival of the fittest, and dog eat dog - the soldier was all too familiar with places like this. Both he and Kaida were now very glad that Logar was adorned with his blaster rifle hanging from his shoulder.
They approached a woman who sat behind a table that was set up at the entrance to her garage home. Upon the table were mushrooms that were dried, and other forms of fungus that the people of Tatooine lived on via their moisture farms. One of her eyes was blue while the other was opaque due to cataracts. She puffed on a long metal pipe. Logar asked, "Gorman Taxian? You know where?"
The woman held up one finger and Logar sighed as he tossed her a credit. She pointed down the street, "There... in that pig hole of a place where they sell women cheap!" They followed her gaze to a small building at the end of the street. It was not the kind of place that Kaida wanted to enter, or see what happened within.
:ooc: Is Kaida going to go in, or does she want to hang out on the street while Logar conducts his business?
She shook her head as she eyed the run down tenements. How could anyone responsible let entire districts like this fall to ruin?
"I don't know, Logar. This isn't really my type of place," she frowned at the hovel the woman had identified and lowered her voice. She probably could have helped with Logar's purchase; she had a good eye for reading people, but after all, it was his money, and besides she didn't want to be seen in that place. "Look, I think I'll wait out here. Just get in, get done quickly, and keep one ear on your comm. I'll do the same."
Once Logar left, she pulled up her hood to hide her features, and found a spot where she could see anyone approaching and put her back to a wall where she could see both the entrance to Taxian's place and the street. She kept one hand under her cloak holding the collapsed stock of Britton's blaster rifle, ready to bring to bear if needed. Her eyes scanned the streets for any potential threats.
:ooc: Basically, she doesn't want to look a target by any criminal element.
Logar gave Kaida a nod. "No worries. My coms on, if theres trouble just call on me. I'll bring the thunder." Logar walked casually to the small house. He flipped the leather tab that held Katherine snug in her sheath. Just in case. He didnt want trouble, they needed supplies. Explosives, armor, ammo. But he had lived this long through the scrapes hed been through by listening to his innate paranoia. Assuming all unknowns were potential enemies.
:ooc: Doug I was going off of your lead that the Rodian needed to conceal himself. So I am somewhat at a loss as well.
Farok rose when the Rodian did. "The only danger your friend is in is that of being taken for an off world rube, separated from her credits by any means and regurgitated up by the city to be eaten outside when destitute or welcomed back when the credit line returns. The larger fear is being noticed by people who don't work for the casino. Don't watch the pit boss, watch those who are watching him."
Farok looked passed the Rodian and Brim saw him make a motion with his drink filled hand to the Twi'lek serving girl. "I'll have a bottle brought to the table if its drinks she is after. Its best not to call any attention at all."
Farok looked at his own drink and frowned. They seemed to be going hard and fast today and he was already in need of another one himself.
Farok then spoke lower to Brim, "You have been spared then the mysticism and mudlded ritual that clouded that dead order." Farok's eyes got rhumy at this last thought, whether because some past or distant thoughts had come into his head, or the drinking was catching up to him the Rodain couldn't tell. It passed however and Farok sat down to a fresh drink.
"Eye Candy, bring a bottle of Corellian for my two new friends too."
The Twi'lek looked from Farok to the Rodian and nodded, "dwa'la"
Farok scanned the bar, "And don't mention this to that blue skinned she devil, Ardana. She'll find a way to hold it over me all day."
Another Twi'lek serving girl appeared near the bar and Farok set to mumbling.
Sam looked to Caden and then to Ed, "I'll take them. What are the chances of finding brand new armour plating on the Outer Rim, anyway?" Sam emptied his credit stick of the 800 he had left (pls update stat block.) and looked to Caden to take care of the remainder, "I will more than pay you back for this...If we can ever stay in one place for awhile." He returned his attention to Ed, "Do you know of anywhere else I might find some work. It doesn't have to be a competitor. I'm pretty good with anything - power generators, vehicles - anything."
Quote from: donimator on Jun 30, 2011, 04:53 AM
Sam looked to Caden and then to Ed, "I'll take them. What are the chances of finding brand new armour plating on the Outer Rim, anyway?" Sam emptied his credit stick of the 800 he had left (pls update stat block.) and looked to Caden to take care of the remainder, "I will more than pay you back for this...If we can ever stay in one place for awhile."
Caden nodded. He knew they all needed Sam in top fighting shape, and he wasn't interested in losing his metal-plated buddy, anyway.
:ooc: Caden and Sam's PC sheets have been updated for credit usage :csu:
I need to know what Kara is planning on doing based on the narrative below.
Ed looked at Sam and then he looked down at the unmarked durasteel plates. He was an honest business man - he really was. In his heart he knew it. It was just that sometimes he had opportunities come along that would allow him to fill his coffers a bit more so that maybe someday he could get his family off of this planet and maybe somewhere to a nice, inner core world. It was this honest, nice-guy, side that suddenly felt his heart soften to the mech droid.
"You independent?" he asked Sam, knowing the answer. He could tell that the droid was just by his mannerisms around his human companion. With Sam's nod, Ed continued, "All right... I might have some work for you. I have an evaporator that I need to repair and get re-seated in a moisture farm just off the Wastes. The owner of the farm is wanting to get it done before the rest of his harvest comes in and dries up. It is worth a good deal of credits to me. You help me get it done and I will give you 1,700. Interested?"
Brim reached Kara as the Corellian began to utter another insult now directed at her fellow gamblers. The Rodian could see that tempers were beginning to rise, and that hands were off the table and out of sight. He grabbed her by the back of the arm, "Kara! What are you doing? C'mon, it's time to go!"
Farok came up behind with a bottle of Corellian whiskey in hand with three glasses. Brim saw him, but turned back to the other patrons that were receiving the blunt of Kara's insults. "She is drunk... please pay her no mind, and I apologize for her ill-spoken words."
Kaida watched Logar disappear into the brothel and looked down at her chronometer. She had no desire to stay here any longer than necessary, and so she mentally urger the soldier on.
Inside, Logar'Dan saw the room go dim as the door closed the bright desert light out. It was cool inside, but stale and reeked of smoke. There was a blue haze that hung throughout the foyer and Logar could see a huge hookah pipe in a side sitting room - more lounging room as the patrons all lay about on couches and puffed at stems that were tethered to the large machine. Their eyes were dreamy and their movements were awkward. Logar shook his head at the danger of the addiction... an enemy that was harder to beat than anything else he had ever faced.
He walked to the next room, which was also a lounge, but drinks were served here. A bar made up the better part of the back wall and patrons sat there sipping drinks, all the while females, males, and androgynous looking beings of varying ages mingled about. The patrons of the brothel took interest to the species, gender and age that they were looking for - business as usual. Suddenly, Logar's view was blocked by a large, female Gran standing in front of him, "Good evening, sir." The Gran's three eyes stared at the soldier and his weapons, "What can we do for you today? This is a quiet establishment and we prefer that weapons, like the ones you carry, are not brought inside. Were you looking for some pleasure? A companion? Drink? Maybe a bit of the smoke?" She gestured to the hookah room.
Logar did not see any overt sign of threat, but he knew that there were eyes on him. Nor did he see anyone else approach - only the Gran madam - so they must have been confident in their security. But he was not here for trouble, so...
Sam nodded to Ed's request. Hopefully they would have a few days of downtime and he could use the credits. He didn't know too much about mositure evaporators, but one of his first jobs had been programming binary load lifters - very similar in most respects. "I am definitely interested. When can I start?"
Farok scanned the crowd around the girl. He didn't think that anything would happen, this was far too mild a scene for what usually occurred. The outburst afte all was more an inconvenience than actual trouble. To be on the safe side Farok scanned the crowd for any known trouble makers and in preparation for having to use any of his advanced skills, which he was loathe to do, he reached out with his senses to see if there were any other force users in the area. Normally he wouldn't get involved, but the work of the strings of fate was still present in this encounter for Farok and it made him nervous.
Rolled 1d20+10 : 5 + 10, total 15
Use the Force, Sense Force Users
A new whiskey magically appeared replacing the empty whiskey. Kara starred hard at the drink, trying to remember if she had ordered a new one, or if she was now at that magical stage of drunkenness where she would eventually slip into a calm haze, and not remember all the troubles. But the fact that she remembered the troubles made her realize she had not got there yet. She felt thirsty in that moment and looked down. The glass was empty and it was in her hand. She forgot was she had been thinking about, and wondered why her glass kept emptying. She set it down.
"Baaaarrtendaa, morrree p-p-plllllease." Kara was not one to stop this kind of experiment.
Farok knew exactly the emotions that the gambler felt. He nodded to the pit boss, "I have this one Dorik, it is a debt of water, and I claim it as my right." Farok spoke the words of the open sands. The Pit Boss while a city dweller knew some of the customs of the barrens. Farok had laid claim, called in a marker per se, on the Rodian and woman. Those native or who had dwelled for a time on the desert planet knew that a debt of water was a serious thing. Any who had an issue with the two would now have to deal with Farok as well until he had settled his debt. The subtlety being that they were not under his protection, but owed him a debt he claimed as priority against others. The settling of debts was something that the gamblers in the casino knew all about. Any who thought that the woman was an easy mark now knew for a fact that Farok would protect the debt owed to him with violence if necessary. It was a subtle way of the desert to threaten violence indirectly and not injure the pride of another by doing so.
Farok looked at the others around the table and nearby, "Their water is mine, do any here challenge my right or lay a greater claim?"
Farok waited a moment for a response giving his protection would have involved him in a fight of pride, claiming a debt meant that if another had a greater grievince they could state it, being disturbed while drinking was unlikely to trump a debt of water. Most of the people here were there to gamble and drink, disturbances were common and more often the drunk offworlders were robbed, or simply beaten for sport. The involvement of one of the regular bar flies was rare but the regulars knew Farok by sight if not by name and with some indifference looked away. Others looked at the potential easy mark of the woman and weighted it against the presence of the two males that had added themselves to the equation and changed the odds.
The brown robbed one armed man clinked the bottle and glasses against the rail to get Kada's attention. "Come along with your friend, service is faster in the lounge than here among the credit chasers. Corellian Whiskey tastes better sitting down anyway. Have you tried the gin? It's much better to drink here in the desert, it keeps the heat off. Dak, shall we finish our conversation?"
Logar raised his hands in a standard galaxy-wide non threatening motion. "Greetings madam. Sorry for the arsenal but i didn't have a safe place to store them so here they are. I mean you and your guests no harm. As for entertainment i was looking for a bang of another sort. I asked around, someone sent me here. My credits are as good as my smile." He finished flashing his winningest grin. "Can you help me?"
A few comments and slurs were tossed out towards Farok - "Take her one arm!", "The off-worlder will want to watch where she places here feet!", "Hope the debt to you is worth it, cause that one looks useless!"
And so on...
Brim looked at Farok and the Rodian felt a growing respect for the one-armed warrior. He was more than he appeared, but yet in truth he was a mixed up as the rest of them. Brim wondered if he, too, would have liabilities of addiction as Kara, but then he stopped himself. "Why do I need to worry about him, he is not with us," he thought to himself. The voice inside was answered by his reasoning, "Perhaps he could be essential in helping with training." Brim began to wonder how he might convince Caden into taking on board another wanderer.
"C'mon Kara," said Brim. "I have made us a new companion and he has ample booze waiting for you to drown yourself in." The Corellian got up and moved with the other two, although she made it a challenge.
Ed smiled, "Good, tomorrow. Be here at 0800, when Tatoo II is just beginning to rise."
Caden thanked Ed and turned to Sam. "If you'll forgive me, working out in that heat doesn't hold a lot of appeal to me. I'm going to stay on the ship in the morning; wait for a signal of some kind, and if not, then make sure she's humming."
It took more than Logar's pleasant smile to get him where he needed - he found that a few credits placed here and there within the brothel opened some doors. And so, 100 credits later, Logar was taken into a back room lounge that was connected to the main building through a long hallway.
Smoke filled this room, too, but here there were business people sitting about talking and making their tradesinstead of the regular patrons. There were still a good amount of merchandise available to any of the business folk that wanted to take advantage of the house's wares.
The young servant that had led Logar here pointed to a man that sat in the corner of the lounge - a blue light was above his head and cast his table in smokey light. The man was sitting with two females of near-human species - one feline-looking, and the other with large, strong warrior traits. Seeing that he was being pointed out, Taxian gestured for Logar to come over to his table, which he did. The man stood, tapping the woman on the shoulders and shooing them away as he did. He was tall and lean, wearing a long, leather coat that hung close to his thin frame. Logar knew that the man had a good array of weapons lining the inner layer of the coat, spying them with his trained eye. Taxian was thin of face, too, and he had shoulder length black hair that framed his face. A closely trimmed goatee wrapped his mouth, which cracked into a wide, toothy smile. He extended his hand, "Gorman Taxian... and you are?"
:ooc: I updated Logar's stat block for the 100 credits. If you do not want to pay that much to get in front of Taxian, let me know, John. :csu:
Back at his table Farok had another drink waiting for him. He noticed that there was ice in this one. He grumbled to himself setting the bottle and glasses down on the table. Offering the other chairs to his guests he fished the ice out of his drink and split the cubes between his two guests, "she thinks that I think that she is doing me a favor with the ice, but I know she is watering down the drinks." Brim had no idea who she was but the one armed man didn't seem to be talking more to himself than anyone else. Once free of its ice Farok set it aside and poured out three heavy handed measures of whiskey. Picking up the one with no ice he toasted the new comer, "Corelia for Corelians!" and shot back a mouthful.
"So Space Travelers what brings you to this sandbox?"
Kara stood, and gave three times the credits she was owed. It was not every day that someone found a magic glass.
"I'll come, but I get to keep my new magic glass!" she said in a voice that was more suited for outdoors, but drunks weren't very good at self control.
:ooc: Np on the credits
Logar offered his hand to the merchant. "I'm called Phoenix Acheillies." Logar smiled at dropping the ridiculous alias. He hadn't used it in years, and still found it funny. "I'm looking predominately for frags and possibly some decent armor. I was told you were the man to speak with."
Kaida leaned against the wall trying to keep herself out of the sun as much as possible. It was dreadfully warm and dry, and she wanted to return to the Acer hub as soon as possible. Her head turned left and then right, scanning the streets as she did. No one had approached her, although the people on the street occassionally took notice of her. It was then that she noticed a figure at the far end of the street. He was tall, and wore a hooded cloak up over his head. It was not unusual. The population of Tatooine favored the cloaks despite the heat, as it kept the beating suns off of them. But this figure stood looking at her, and then once noticed, moved and disappeared around a corner.
Taxian gave Logar's hand a vigorous shake, but the soldier could tell that the black marketeer was appraising him. "Welcome to Tatooine, Phoenix. I have never met you before, and neither have I heard of you in the circles of buyers around this area." Gorman smiled, "It is a huge galaxy, though." Even though he maintained the smile, Taxian's eyes squinted in his judging of Logar. "So, how did you make your way to me?"
Logar gave the entire run-down of their quest to find Gorman Taxian. The merchant nodded as he recognized a name of a place or a referral. Once done, Gorman crossed his arms and then rubbed his chin with a hand and then appeared to come to a conclusion, "Well you don't look like ISB - not that they get out here too much. You also don't look like Entha police... they wouldn't hire a guy that looks battle-worn like you. Still, if you try anything funny, and I mean anything, I promise that your bones will bleach white under the desert sun." The smile never left his face, "I assume you have money?" Again Logar made a re-assuring gesture to Taxian by showing him his credit amount. The black marketeer smiled, "Well let's see what that can get you!"
He led Logar out of the lounge and through a door that went down a good thirty stairs. It was cooler here and the sweat on Logar's body became chill. At the base of the stairs, Gorman led the soldier down another passage. They passed two check points of guards - big, pig-faced Gamorreans that held cruel-looking battle-axes. "I get these guards as protection from a Hutt that I do business with." Logar was not sure if Taxian told him that to impress, or to let him know the depth of the business he was getting in to. The Hutts ran most illegal business in this sector, and it was dangerous to cross them - they never let go of an insult.
Taxian opened a large rolling bay door and gestured again for Logar to enter. It was even cooler in here, as there was a air conditioning unit that aggressively blew cold air. "I need to keep some of this stuff at a certain temperature, so that there are no accidents. He activated a serie of flourescent lights and the room began to glow a bluish-white. There were a series of crates about the 30x20 chamber. "Frags, you said?" Taxian hit an electronic control and the crate opened. A hydaulic-springed table within the box lifted of its own accord and then it scissored open to reveal three levels of assorted weapons nested in foam.
Gorman began a rundown of all the things that Logar had shown interest in, "I have frags, ion, and stun grenades. I have thermal detonators available, but you will need to let me know how many you want, because I keep that stuff somewhere safer. I've got blasters - rifles and pistols. I can get heavier stuff if needed, but money is in advance and then I bring it in. As for armor... I have full suits or piece-meal stuff, a lot of it is left over from the Clone Wars. I can get you a suit of Clone armor... pretty good stuff. It is the same as the stuff their putting on Stormtroopers, now, except the design is different."
Having run down the menu, Taxian began to say prices, "Grenades are 250 to 300 credits each, depending on types. Weapons will also be priced based on type, but the cheapest I can give you is around 400. The armor, well you can buy stuff in pieces or if you want a suit, well, it will cost you by type. A cloner suit will cost you about 9,000, but that includes the helmet package." Gorman smiled again, "So... what'll it be?"
Brim was beginning to like their new acquaintance, but he was hesitant to reveal too much about them yet. "We are on the back end of a mechant run. We needed to set in for fuel and supplies and so here we are. We will probably be here for a few days... I understand the captain wants to have a few things worked on on his ship."
All the while, beside them, Kara mumbled to herself regarding a magic glass.
With the new plates acquired and employment agreed upon, Caden and Sam made their way back to the ship. They moved through the crowds of people and finally arrived at the docking bay. The tunnel that led into where the Aegis sat followed around the circular bay and then deposited them inside the large dock. The Loronar sat quietly, her landing ramps up and locked so that Danjapa would not be harmed, or taken, or come outside to be seen. A few droids still maneuvered around the underside of the ship checkin line connections and taking readings from the on-board comp system to assure that the ship was powering correctly and that her fuel tanks were being filled to the right capacity.
A protocol droid saw Caden and moved to speak to him, "Sir, the re-supply of your ship's food and water store is only waiting for you to open the loading ramp." The droid received a nod from Caden and began to turn away, "Oh... and you have a visitor, sir."
Caden and Sam looked to where the protocol droid pointed and then noticed for the first time the tall man standing near the forward landing strut, his fingers tracing along a conduit on the underside fo the Aegis's belly. He was handsome, well dressed, and his face held subtle expression. In any case, Caden did not get a good feel from the stranger.
:ooc: I guess i shouldve asked around if someone wanted a new blaster. Anyone care to comment. i cant afford armor at these prices so ill prob just settle for backpack full of frags. So does anyone want a new blaster or anything specific?
:ooc: I have no problem if PC's wanna chime in with a grocery list that they gave Logar before he left.
Quote from: Callowmoryne on Jul 10, 2011, 12:26 PM
:ooc: I guess i shouldve asked around if someone wanted a new blaster. Anyone care to comment. i cant afford armor at these prices so ill prob just settle for backpack full of frags. So does anyone want a new blaster or anything specific?
:ooc: I think I'm good, but thanks. Caden would probably just blow himself up with a grenade, anyway. :(
Quote from: tomcat on Jul 10, 2011, 09:36 AM
With the new plates acquired and employment agreed upon, Caden and Sam made their way back to the ship. They moved through the crowds of people and finally arrived at the docking bay. The tunnel that led into where the Aegis sat followed around the circular bay and then deposited them inside the large dock. The Loronar sat quietly, her landing ramps up and locked so that Danjapa would not be harmed, or taken, or come outside to be seen. A few droids still maneuvered around the underside of the ship checkin line connections and taking readings from the on-board comp system to assure that the ship was powering correctly and that her fuel tanks were being filled to the right capacity.
A protocol droid saw Caden and moved to speak to him, "Sir, the re-supply of your ship's food and water store is only waiting for you to open the loading ramp." The droid received a nod from Caden and began to turn away, "Oh... and you have a visitor, sir."
Caden and Sam looked to where the protocol droid pointed and then noticed for the first time the tall man standing near the forward landing strut, his fingers tracing along a conduit on the underside fo the Aegis's belly. He was handsome, well dressed, and his face held subtle expression. In any case, Caden did not get a good feel from the stranger.
"Well, Sam," Caden said under his breath, "Let's kill him with kindness...
first, at least."
Caden checked his holster and sauntered up to his vessel as casually as he could before breaking into a wide smile as the stranger turned to face him.
"Not bad, eh?" He nodded to the Aegis, as if trying to show her off like a proud parent.
"So, the droid over there said you needed something," he said, thumb toward the protocol droid. "What can I do ya for?"
Farok nodded to Brim, "we were speaking of being hunted a moment ago. The galaxy is wide and large, but the noose grows tight around our kind. Even the common people out of need for money, or out of a misplaced devotion to the Empire, become our betrayers. The great deeds and stories of old are now told as tales in these times of dishonorable peace. So here I sit in this sand trap of a casino getting drunk. Unbecoming I imagine you're thinking, but I am no ones pawn, not a dead Jedi's, not the Dark Ones, and not the Forces. It is best to hide and stay off the grid, if you take no notice of the galaxy it will take no notice of you. I only hope that the Force will do me the courtesy of leaving me alone."
Farok knocked the extra idle glass he set aside off the table as he swung his one good arm in emphasis. The sandstone floor greedily drunk up the fluid before it could pool and in moments it was just a damp spot on the floor. He then pointed at the Rodian.
"A line of reasoning you would do well to think on yourself. Hide what you know Brim, do not use your abilities lightly, it's echoes and ripples travel far and before you know it your wrapped up in it. Both sides of the Force will try to claim you as their tool and some jawa turd out their will want you to be his apprentice, that is if you're not just outright killed.
BAH! Jedi....I ask you this, how many shades of grey exist between the extremes of justice and revenge? When does one become the other? A lack of emotion may lead to peace, but is their justice there? What have people more need of, passive monks burning incense reciting words talking in circles or guardians wielding swords?
You must make your own way; no mindless recitation of words will give you guidance. Don't trust in tenants and codes. Trust yourself, there you will find the truest guide to your actions. "
Farok took another drink from his whiskey, looked at himself and then at Brim, "Don't judge the worth of the words by the messenger. Now if you don't mind I am going to wallow in my own hypocrisy and have a smoke..... This day has gone to complete shit."
Lighting another stub of rolled leaves he took from his cloak he looked at Kara, "So sweetheart what's your story? Wander down the wrong alley?"
Once lit he refilled her glass.
:ooc: I am enjoying this crew of misfits! ;D
More to come in a bit.
Kara looked at Farok, and contemplated smashing the magic glass into his face for calling her sweetheart. Then she remembered the glass was magic, and that she needed to protect it, especially if it gave her more whiskey magically.
She starred down at the glass for a few moments, and sure enough more liquor appeared. She looked away and then back down and the liquid was gone. In the back of her mind, she realized she had been asked a question. She jolted her head up violently looking at Farok, clearly she had lost control of some of her motor skills.
"My story is..." she looked around. "I saw a droid, and followed it, things went boom, I went boom back and next thing I know I'm flying the ship for this group." She was now swaying back and forth. "I've done my share of odd jobs, shipping, mechanics, all kinds of stuff around the galaxy, but while I may not have a regular paycheck with this group, at least I don't have to sleep with a blaster under my pillow every night."
Kara looked down at her glass, on the verge of passing out.
Farok smiled at the pilot, not a mocking condescending one but one of understanding, "Yes the boom does lead one down strange paths." Farok looked again to Brim, "Have you lodgings here in the city? I offer you and your companion shelter from the sun and sand without the debt of water. Now are the quiet hours of Tatoonie, most business and traffic occurs at night when its cooler, and the rats crawl from their hiding places looking for easy prey. It would be unwise to bring her through the streets in this state at that time. Here is safe enough, I have eyes and ears other than my own and no local trouble will bother you here as long as you're quiet and stay out of trouble."
Farok tried to blow smoke rings while he took long draws off of his cigar. He looked around the casino again observing the people that came and went sipping off of his drink. Within a minute or two a twi'lek came by the table with a small container of ice and water. She was an interesting shade of blue, almost like deep ice, a color that seemed to change depending on how strong and from what direction the light was. Small shots of the water were poured for Farok and his guests. The glass and water were ice cold and as soon as they were set upon the table they began to bead and make water rings on the table.
Farok handed one to the Corelian, "Here is the finest drink in Tatoonie." Farok raised his, "To the Booms of Life."
To his guests the first impression was that it was simply ice water, once it was drunk however the clear cold water did indeed taste better than any glass of water ever drunk, such was the heat and arid qualities of the planet that this simple thing on other planets was indeed a luxury here. More ice was added to Kara's magic glass and the Twi'lek took away the other empty glasses. As she began to refill Farok's drink he placed his hand over the top indicating that he was done for the moment. The Twi'lek smiled at him and left the table.
Gazing around the room Farok again concentrated on smoking and observing the patrons coming and going.
"How did it come to this...."
Logar eyed the mans wares. He was starting to worry about Kaida waiting for him out in the slums. He needed to get this over with. "Armor sounds a bit pricey. Ill have shop around a bit on that. How much for twenty frags and a couple bandoliers?"
Quote from: tomcat on Jul 10, 2011, 09:36 AM
Kaida leaned against the wall trying to keep herself out of the sun as much as possible. It was dreadfully warm and dry, and she wanted to return to the Acer hub as soon as possible. Her head turned left and then right, scanning the streets as she did. No one had approached her, although the people on the street occasionally took notice of her. It was then that she noticed a figure at the far end of the street. He was tall, and wore a hooded cloak up over his head. It was not unusual. The population of Tatooine favored the cloaks despite the heat, as it kept the beating suns off of them. But this figure stood looking at her, and then once noticed, moved and disappeared around a corner.
Kaida felt a twang of alarm when she saw the figure watching her. Was she being shadowed by imperial agents? If so, how had they tracked her. Or was this someone sent by Organa. She decided to phone in to Logar. She touched the comm and whispered into it what she had seen. Then she ended with, "It could be danger or it could be our contact. I'm going to take a quick look, but hurry it up in there. I'll keep in contact."
She scanned the streets for any other possible signs of danger then pushed away from the wall and walked nonchalantly in the direction of the corner the figure had rounded. One hand was clasped inside her cloak ready to draw quickly if needed.
:ooc: She'll move to the corner, stop at a booth feigning interest in some oddity being sold on the corner, and will peer around it looking for the tall figure.
Taxian smiled, "Twenty? Going to be busy?" He didn't wait for Logar's reply, "You buy twenty from me and I will even cut you a 10% break and throw the bandoliers in for free. So, 4500 credits. Deal?"
Brim sat and thought about Farok's offer and only then did her remember that Kaida had communicated to them that she had rented rooms for them at the Acer Hub's hotel. They were not close to the resort, but neither were they close to the ship and it was moving into the later afternoon hours. Already one of Tatooine's two suns was beginning to lower itself on the horizon and its refracted light now shone amber casting everything in a golden-red light.
The Rodian had no desire to get Kara back to the ship, by himslef, in her current state, but neither did he want to stay here and watch her fall deeper into the bottle. And yet, he was not completely sure he could trust their new benefactor.
[more to come when I get home...]
Logar met the merchants eyes with a knowing grin. "Its a good price, a tad bit above my entire savings however. How about 19 frags and the bandoliers for 4,000? I wont be staying on planet long. But ill be back Taxian. Once ive made inquaries about funding my little adventures ill be back. I think i can make you a rich man if you were interested in steady business. But really whats a promise like that worth in our line of work. Likely one of us will end up a mound of slag by then." Logar finished with a chuckle. "So does that sound fair, 4.000 creds for 19?"
Brim was watching Farok exhibit the same vices as Kara, and he was sure that whatever their future held, it would be hampered by addictions. He understood the need to bury memories and pasts, but if they were going to survive they all needed to keep their wits. Then, Farok placed his hand over the drink glass. The Twi'lek smiled. Was there something there? Brim wondered.
"All right, Farok, we shall heed your advice, but we do have lodgings. Perhaps we can get to the Acer hub once Kara has recovered herself somewhat." Brim then tapped his comlink that he had acquired from the Tantau prison, "Caden. It is Brim. Are you there?"
Caden and Sam were rather busy.
The stranger looked at the Bestinian and cracked a smile of his own, though it never made it to his eyes. "It is a gorgeous ship. I have not seen a Loronar in quite some time. I am looking for the ship's captain... a man named Caden Whitesun. Is that you?" Without allowing a response, the man continued, "My name is Jareen Antturus and I need to talk with him."
Taxian gave it only a moments thought, "Sold." He then proceeded to lift up the foam lining within the crate to reveal another level of grenade weapons. Walking to a box, he pulled from it two worn, but still quality bandoliers. "Here you go. The first three rows are all fragmentation grenades. All are within a year of production date, and all of the fuses are good. It has been good doing business with you. As for your other offer, I am interested, but all of my dealings are discreet so you will only find me through certain channels."
Logar began to load the bandoliers with nineteen fragmentation grenades while Gorman extracted 4000 credits from his credstick. It was then that Kaida's voice came over his comlink. Hearing her urgency, Logar finished his business and then asked Taxian to please show him the way back out. The soldier exited the brothel, back into the sweltering heat - although the suns were starting to set - only to see Kaida was no longer in her place. He looked down the street and saw the noblewoman idling around a merchant's table, but looking around her as well.
Kaida saw no sign of the stranger in the robe - nor did she see anything she would ever want on the table before her.
:ooc: Some of you have things going on at the moment with your PC, others need to tell me where they want to head next.
-4000 credits from Logar :csu:
Kara went black, her head hit the table and she bounced back up as if awakened again by the blow. She looked across the table.
"Did you say lodging? You wouldn't happen to have cooling units and a real floor, not those sand or dirt floors that most of the pits around here have."
Farok placed the cork back into the bottle on the table and again blew some smoke rings that drifted over the table. The Twi'lek appeared, again with another pitcher, as she poured it into the magic glass a low water vapor began to rise from it. "Its cold water and stim, the cold shocks the system a little bit and the water and stim add a little bit of life back. The hardcore gamblers throw them back all day." He placed the drink in front of Kara and tossed some pocket tokens on the table, "that's for the magic glass, Galcier, I'm stepping out for a bit."
"Drink up lady luck, this one's for fast ships and clear lanes."
With cigar clenched in his teeth, "My cooling unit is primitive, I'm a desert creature. I can assist you in getting back to your ship or the Acer. If you have rooms there I would recommend that that's where you go. Security is better the closer you get there and its temperature controlled. But I wont reneg on my offer of someplace closer if that's your desire."
As Farok stood Brim noticed that the only openly carried weapon he had was a small retractable baton. He wore no firearms and if Brim had not seen the lightsaber he would have assumed him to be unarmed.
"We can talk along the way and you can tell me of your training."
"Whats your desire Corellian Captain? The ship or wrapped around a cooling unit?"
Quote from: tomcat on Jul 13, 2011, 05:26 PM
Caden and Sam were rather busy.
The stranger looked at the Bestinian and cracked a smile of his own, though it never made it to his eyes. "It is a gorgeous ship. I have not seen a Loronar in quite some time. I am looking for the ship's captain... a man named Caden Whitesun. Is that you?" Without allowing a response, the man continued, "My name is Jareen Antturus and I need to talk with him."
Caden's smile stayed wide and his eyes bright, a conscious effort to be sure, as he wasn't nearly famous enough to be known here by anybody... this was either their contact, or they'd been trailed. Nothing in between.
"You've found him," he said as gleefully as possible. "I see my reputation in shipping precedes me, huh? Got any cargo you need moved?"
His hand stayed low, near his blaster. He knew Sam would be ready with his weapon, too - Sam was
always ready.
Sam walked into the docking bay with Caden and let several processes stream to determine where he would attach the shiny new plates. He had scanned and logged their dimensions and was torn between fixing the most serious damage or getting the best cosmetic enhancement. Another process or two ran an analysis on the equipment he had worked on before and the likely similarities to these evaporators. The more he was drawn back into battle and the shades of his previous incarnation, the more he enjoyed time just working with his manipulators. Then he heard the voice.
Damn! Sam was surprised and unprepared. That was very disconcerting for a droid. Normally, Sam was always ready.
His sensors and dormant combat programming spun quickly to full power. It was a...new sensation, jumping to action like this. Externally nothing was noticeable, but Sam had to force himself to manually shut down some dedicated streams that almost willed him to reach for his blaster. With his systems returning to normal, Sam discretely scanned their surroundings to make sure there were no more surprises.
:ooc: Perception check to notice the lightsaber even though I'm drunker than Sean Bean.
+10
Rolled 1d20+10 : 9 + 10, total 19
:ooc: Farok showed Brim the lightsaber earlier.
:ooc: Yea, but Kara was in the other room at the sabaac tables. Nick, the roll was a success.
Antturus gave Caden a look, "It is good to meet you Caden. Do not worry, I am unarmed, so unless you mean to kill me, you may relax." Looking past the Bestinian, Jareen continued, "And you can tell your guardian droid that I mean you no harm. I just want to talk. Is there a place we may speak that is more private? It concerns a couple senators that were killed on a planet not too far away."
There was an air of confidence about the stranger that was unsettling, that and the fact that his eyes did not hold any sense of humanity. It was more like they studied Caden, almost dissecting him. His suit was well-tailored and the heat had not dissuaded Antturus from wearing it. His hair was neatly cut, hands looked manicured, and the shoes he wore were ones that Caden would never have chosen to wear in this dusty environment. Jareen's face was thin and long, like his body frame and it could be called handsome if it weren't for the mask of disdain that creeped out from the sides of his smile.
Sam's sensor scan was unable to detect any other potential threats nearby. The only other biological he could detect was Danjapa who still sat waiting aboard the Aegis.
"I lost him," Kaida replied, nodding to Logar as he approached. "He was tall and cloaked, so be on the lookout. But don't look like you're on the lookout." Noticing Logar's bulging backpack, she said. "C'mon, lets go get Danjapa and you can stow this extra gear in the Aegis. Then we can get out of this heat."
:ooc: Kaida will proceed to pick up Danjapa and bring him with us to the Acer hub. Logar can drop his gear off in the ship. Prob not good to take it all with us into a nice hotel. She'll keep eyes out for any shadows and will keep in contact with the team regarding what she's seen.
Logar nodded to Kaida. His eyes were scanning the street for the figure she mentioned. He agreed with her about ditching some of his gear, but he wouldnt be leaving the aegis unarmed. He would fetch his duffle bag and stow his rifle and a bandolier of grenades within. A med kit too. Kaida may be concerned with drawing to much attention. Logar was concerned with living and keeping her alive. The Aegis crew had to fight there way out of their last two stops that he knew of, and prob more than that. He needed to be ready to take down any frelling thing that got in their way. "We should move. Ill need to pick up my bags from the aegis if were to be staying at the hub."
:ooc: So apon leaving the aegis i will be carrying my baggage to the acer hub. Heavy pistol on one side and my vibro blade on the other.
Quote from: tomcat on Jul 14, 2011, 08:09 PM
Antturus gave Caden a look, "It is good to meet you Caden. Do not worry, I am unarmed, so unless you mean to kill me, you may relax." Looking past the Bestinian, Jareen continued, "And you can tell your guardian droid that I mean you no harm. I just want to talk. Is there a place we may speak that is more private? It concerns a couple senators that were killed on a planet not too far away."
There was an air of confidence about the stranger that was unsettling, that and the fact that his eyes did not hold any sense of humanity. It was more like they studied Caden, almost dissecting him. His suit was well-tailored and the heat had not dissuaded Antturus from wearing it. His hair was neatly cut, hands looked manicured, and the shoes he wore were ones that Caden would never have chosen to wear in this dusty environment. Jareen's face was thin and long, like his body frame and it could be called handsome if it weren't for the mask of disdain that creeped out from the sides of his smile.
Sam's sensor scan was unable to detect any other potential threats nearby. The only other biological he could detect was Danjapa who still sat waiting aboard the Aegis.
Caden kept up his pleasant facade, but there was no way he was letting this fellow on the Aegis; not with Danjapa still inside.
"Senators? I'm afraid I don't know what you're talking about." He said it loudly enough to alert Sam, and he wanted to read the man's face as his reply carried further in the dry, dusty air than he would have otherwise preferred.
"I think you do, Caden. Two senators... one named Ranie, and the other Seelig. I also know there is a bounty on your head - along with all those that had made themselves public to the Bakuran government as individuals working for Ranie. I know that Varta the Hutt has an interest in making sure you all are space dust, so as not to bring any potential interference with the Namana trade that he has established." Antturus watched to see if there was any reaction on Caden's face. The Bestinian was good, as he showed none. The stranger continuted, "I also know that a Rodian named Puk was beheaded in a bar not long ago by a lightsaber-wielding shadow. I know this because the Shadow had worked for us, although he has been recently dismissed."
Antturus began to pace in a circle, his hands clenched behind his back as if he were a teacher in a classroom. "So, between the Namana now in production and beginning to fill the pipeline, and deathsticks out there, too, I can say that Caden Whitesun is kind of immersed in a world he doesn't wish to be. But maybe I am wrong... maybe you are just fine. Sorry to interfere with your day."
The tall, lean stranger began to walk away from Sam and Caden, not looking back. One of Tatooine's suns was beginning to drop in the sky and caused the walls of the docking bay to take on an orange-golden tone.
Logar and Kaida pushed their way through the streets of Mos Entha with little problem. Either the law really did have a grasp on keeping criminal activity in the shadows, or the people just did not want to mess with Logar's rifle. In any case, the docking port where the Aegis sat came into view. The duo could see a tall, lean, well-dressed man exiting the bay through one of its rounded tunnels.
:ooc: For Farok, Kara, and Brim - I am just waiting on what you guys wish to do. Kara was successful at seeing the lightsaber.
:ooc: I am going along with what Kara or Brim decide to do.
Quote from: tomcat on Jul 19, 2011, 12:42 PM
The tall, lean stranger began to walk away from Sam and Caden, not looking back. One of Tatooine's suns was beginning to drop in the sky and caused the walls of the docking bay to take on an orange-golden tone.
Logar and Kaida pushed their way through the streets of Mos Entha with little problem. Either the law really did have a grasp on keeping criminal activity in the shadows, or the people just did not want to mess with Logar's rifle. In any case, the docking port where the Aegis sat came into view. The duo could see a tall, lean, well-dressed man exiting the bay through one of its rounded tunnels.
Kaida approached Caden and smiled. She imagined perhaps that it just might be getting a little cooler. Who in their right mind would settle on a planet that had two suns baking everything in existence? "Hey, I got us a nice place at the Acer hub. But I guess you heard. Who's the stiff in the suit?" she asked casually, her eyes following the retreating man. "Some friend of yours?"
"Frack me." Kara said to herself slightly sobered by what she had seen. She knew enough to keep her mouth shut, but another Jedi? Where the hell were all these Jedi coming from. Weren't they all killed off during the Clone Wars, how the heck had she got stuck in the midst of a group that seemed to attract Jedi like how deathsticks attracted... well attracted her.
Farok smiled at the Corellian, "So what's your pleasure?"
Quote from: Jingo on Jul 19, 2011, 08:18 PM
Kaida approached Caden and smiled. She imagined perhaps that it just might be getting a little cooler. Who in their right mind would settle on a planet that had two suns baking everything in existence? "Hey, I got us a nice place at the Acer hub. But I guess you heard. Who's the stiff in the suit?" she asked casually, her eyes following the retreating man. "Some friend of yours?"
"I doubt it," he replied. "But I'm going to find out in a minute."
He looked back to the Aegis... and then it hit him.
"I'll be back - talk to Sam and check the ship from stem to stern. My 'friend' had more time around her than I'm comfortable with."
***
He followed Antturus until the man noticed him - it didn't take long.
"If you wanted what they do, we would have never had such a pleasant conversation," he said. "So what do
you want?"
There was no use playing coy anymore - whoever Antturus was, he knew
everything.
He kept his hand near his blaster, but not too provocatively; he just wanted Antturus to know he was serious.
"Let's talk," he said, gesturing to the small bar down the dusty street - it looked crowded enough. "I'll buy."
Kaida nodded at Caden as he left. "Alright Sam, let's take a look. Logar, you can help too." She carefully looked over the ship, making sure there wasn't anything out of the ordinary. She'd been poking around starships ever since she was a little girl, and was even a fairly decent pilot. So, she felt confident if there was anything unusual tucked away somewhere they would be able to find it.
:ooc: I'm taking a 20 on my perception check since I have plenty of time and no real chance of failure--unless there's a bomb or tripwire then maybe I'd be in trouble. In that case, you can roll for me. Perception skill 20+9 = 29
Kara looked at the guy asking her what her pleasure was. She was feeling sick, and just wanted to get drunk and stumble back to the ship and pass out, not be questioned all night. In the old days she would have pulled out her blaster and shoved it into the guys crotch. Instead she just stuck her forehead down on the table to rest and closed her eyes. She could feel that the table was sticky.
Farok shrugged his shoulder. The two didnt seem to want to go anywhere. "One spot is as good as the next."
Sitting down he poured himself a drink and put a splash in the magic glass.
Brim watched Kara's head hit the table and he sighed. Caden had asked him to keep an eye on her to make sure she didn't get into any trouble, but he did not say to watch her drown herself in booze. He took the
magic glass away from her and looked to Farok, "No more. Can you help me get her back to my ship?"
Kaida, Sam and Logar began to search the bottom of the Aegis for any potential threats, but nothing showed itself. But then the noblewoman noticed a small transmitter that was wedged between a hydraulic cylinder and the ship's main body. It was still blinking. She gestured over to Sam and Logar to come look at it.
The droid looked up and noticed it had been lodged in there via a high-power shot, as if someone had fired the thing at them.
Antturus nodded to Caden, "That will be fine."
The duo entered the tavern, going down the stairs into its sub-ground main room. People looked at them as they entered and Caden felt an immediate change in the demeanor of the patrons... at least some. The bartender made a quick gesture and a table was prepared in a quiet corner away from the entrance. Caden and Jareen crossed the room to the table and sat down. The Bestinian lifted his hand to signal the waitress to bring a couple drinks, but was surprised to see that she was already ready and waiting.
"Evening Mr. Antturus, what can I get for you and your guest?"
"We will take a bottle of Corellian whiskey along with two glasses of ice water."
"Right away, sir."
Antturus looked at Caden but his face displayed nothing - no humor, no interest... nothing. "So," he began. "you want to talk now?" Caden nodded. "Well, let me continue by saying that there is also an Imperial Governor, Thieraan, that has you in his sights, too. Two Imperial Senators were murdered within his region and all he has to peg it on is you. Not sure what you guys did, but it seems you really got your asses in a bind. Nothing a governor with aspirations would want better than to bring to justice some heinous murderers."
The whiskey and water showed up. Jareen sipped first from the frosty glass, and then poured the alcohol into two rocks glasses that had been left by the waitress. He drew from the drink and swished the dark liquid around his mouth, enjoying its strong warmth. "I know a lot of what is going on... Seelig, before he was killed, had his body marred on the forehead with a symbol of two concentric circles. Do you know what that is?" He didn't wait for Caden to answer, "Why don't you tell me what you know."
*******
Slave I inverted its flight pattern and flared as it came in to land in the small Mos Entha docking bay. Fett looked out of the canopy of his ship at the setting suns of Tatooine. Things didn't change here no matter where you landed.
Oh well, it's home, he thought to himself.
Fett stepped down from his flight deck and moved into the Firespray's central chamber. He looked at the scope one more time that showed the flickering light of Sallo's transmitter. The Mandalorian was very pleased. He had checked Sallo's ship before leaving Jovan Station to see how the bounty hunter had tracked the marks to the spacestation, and had found the transmitter beacon. With the frequency programmed into his own ship, Fett followed the Aegis across the galaxy to Tatooine.
Sallo was good, Boba thought,
but I am better.He suddenly wondered if the man was still alive. He hadn't fared well in the skirmish on Jovan. Fett had watched as the noblewoman had fired a shot into Sallo's chest. Too bad... you need to be a lot better if you are going to survive in this business.
Can't let your mark fire blasters into your chest, Fett smiled at his private joke.
He began to don his armor, but then the sudden end of the beeping transmitter caused him to turn to his radar. "They found it," he whispered. It didn't matter. He knew where they were.
:ooc: Kaida and Sam are looking at the homing transmitter that Corbin Sallo had fired on the Aegis when it jetted off of the dock platform of Cloud City.
Farok slammed back the drink he had poured for himself, "Right! Off we go."
Kara moaned...
:ooc: ok Tomcat i think this vein is pretty much tapped.
Kaida stared at the transmitter and muttered a low curse. All of a sudden the welcome darkness and the cool it would bring at the setting of both suns didn't seems so appealing. Who or what could be waiting for them at every turn.
"Sam, disable that transmitter."
Once disabled, she called on the comm to Caden and the others of their team. She spoke in a low but urgent whisper. "Look we found something on the Aegis. A transmitter beacon. It's a fair bet someone has followed us here. Everyone be on your guard, and meet at the Aegis ASAP. We need to decide what to do."
Kaida's warning was even more the incentive for Brim. He stood when he heard it and pulled Kara up, hooking her arm over his shoulder. Farok came over to the opposite side and hoisted her other arm up, although it was a touch more difficult for the one-armed warrior.
"We are not far. Thank you, Farok," said Brim.
The trio moved out of the cantina and into the golden glow of dusk. Strangely, it was cooler. The truth was that Tatooine once cloaked in darkness could get very cold. The streets were still bustling but the shops and vendors were beginning to lower their shutters. Brim kept a close look about, but no one seemed to be following them nor threatening in any manner.
It took them fifteen minutes to cover the distance. They entered the docking bay and saw Sam and Logar standing position just at the Aegis' landing ramp. Logar gave a chuckle when he saw Kara's condition.
"Come," said Brim to Farok. "Help me get her on board and in her bunk. She can sleep this off." The Rodian did not envy the way Kara would feel come morning. "Once done, I will introduce you to the others."
They went up the ramp and into the ship. Farok was impressed with the Loronar. Caden kept his ship clean and in good running condition. The bunk rooms were on the main deck in the circular section and Kara was heaved into bed. She murmured something, stretched and then was sleeping once more. Brim gestured to Farok to follow and they first went to the galley - inside stood Kaida and Danjapa.
Brim pointed to Farok, "Kaida... let me introduce you to a new friend. This is Farok. He was kind enough to help me with Kara." Then the Rodian pointed to the man, "This is Antar Danjapa... a passenger of ours. The other two at the ship's entrance - the droid is Sam and the soldier is Logar. Our captain is not here... where is he Kaida?"
Kaida nodded welcome to Farok, but addressed Brim instead, some alarm creeping into her voice. "Kara? What's wrong with Kara? Is she hurt?"
Then...
"Caden followed after a tall man in a suit probably a half hour ago. I didn't get a good look at him," she described what she saw and then went on. "Not sure where he's at now; we've not heard anything yet."
She drew Brim aside and lowered her voice so only he could hear. "Who is this?" she nodded to Falgor. "Can we trust him? You know who we have here." She flicked a glance to Danjapa and then back to Brim.
The tracker beacon just proves my point Logar thought. He needed to be ready. Once apon the Aegis he went straight to his bunk. Breaking out his gear and checking everything over. He filled the the three bandoliers with frags and a few ion grenades each. Double-checked his rifle and pistol. He left two bandoliers on his bed and went to find Kaida.
Farok nodded at all in turn. "Your Captain describe him to me. I am unknown to your party and may be able to observe him if it is necessary."
:ooc: Tomcat, any chance that i would know who this guy is that is being described? The suit guy i mean.
Quote from: tomcat on Jul 22, 2011, 08:14 AM
Antturus looked at Caden but his face displayed nothing - no humor, no interest... nothing. "So," he began. "you want to talk now?" Caden nodded. "Well, let me continue by saying that there is also an Imperial Governor, Thieraan, that has you in his sights, too. Two Imperial Senators were murdered within his region and all he has to peg it on is you. Not sure what you guys did, but it seems you really got your asses in a bind. Nothing a governor with aspirations would want better than to bring to justice some heinous murderers."
The whiskey and water showed up. Jareen sipped first from the frosty glass, and then poured the alcohol into two rocks glasses that had been left by the waitress. He drew from the drink and swished the dark liquid around his mouth, enjoying its strong warmth. "I know a lot of what is going on... Seelig, before he was killed, had his body marred on the forehead with a symbol of two concentric circles. Do you know what that is?" He didn't wait for Caden to answer, "Why don't you tell me what you know."
"What I don't know could fill a book," Caden replied. "The second senator, Kal Ranie, was a good friend of mine. He brought me in to see what I could scrounge up on Seelig's death - he wanted to keep the investigation quiet."
Caden figured that if Anturrus had wanted to sell them out, he could have done so already.
"Seelig was dead before I even came to the planet - Kal's call was the only reason I even went there in the first place. Anyway, something went south - Kal may have gotten too close to the wrong people. They killed him; destroyed his whole mansion, and my ship and its crew - what was left of them, at least - barely got away with our own lives."
Caden seemed exasperated. "They tried to kill all of us, too - and got my co-pilot. Then the next thing we know, the murders of both men are being pinned on us, and we've been running."
"We were set up; I have two friends dead on that planet, and it's pretty clear that we're to take the fall in order to hide something. I figure our only chance is to find out what that is. We can't run forever - I'm good, but not
that good."
Had he said too much? His guess was that he didn't give Antturus anything that he didn't already know.
Kara felt herself floating and went off to sleep, dreaming of racing speeders, drinking expensive corellian brandy, and BBQ'ing nerf.
Antturus looked at Caden. He knew the Bestinian was telling the truth. "So... we have an honest merchant in this galaxy after all?" He smiled at his own remark. "You stepped in it deep, along with all of your friends."
The lean, well-dressed figure took another pull from his glass and studied Caden for a minute more. He breathed deep and continued, "Okay... I represent some people who are very concerned about the events on Bakura. The Rodian that assassinated Seelig was an idiot. He made the wrong move and has paid for it dearly. If his direction came from Varta, then there is going to be issues for the Hutts. The Shadow that was sent in to clean things up has also botched things to a degree that it appears the best way to make it all go away is to go to the source of the problem. You.
Caden looked incredulously at Antturus. How were they the problem?
Jareen continued, "As I said, the Empire is interested; the Hutts are interested; and finally, the Bando Gora have now stirred up once again. I will explain: When Varta began to move into this region and bring the drug namana to the streets - a drug that is highly controlled by the Bakuran government and church due to its religious uses - it created a few problems. First, it required their inside man, Seelig, to get the Hutt's people product. He, as you already can assume, got greedy and is now dead for his troubles. The namana product on the street has caused the Bando Gora to become interested as it is interfering with their tremendous Death Stick business. Finally, the Rodian, Puk, tried to implicate another party in Seelig's murder.
"So... here we are." Caden's face spoke volumes, but primarily it was how did Jareen Antturus know so much? He received his answer, "The people I represent took a major offense to this. We do not care if the Gora fill the streets with dirty drugs, or if the Hutt's want to get in on the business with their own, but we will not be imputed.
"We sent the Shadow to clean things up, but through subterfuge. Varta believed that the dark-jedi worked for him. Unfortunately, he too has caused nothing but trouble. Granted it lies on Varta... and you. Still, we are willing to help, if you are willing to help. The Empire is a huge obstacle, but we have people on the inside that can make changes, or distract Thieraan with a new issue. Varta the Hutt can be bought out. All of this we are willing to do, if you and your friends will do one thing for us... kill the Shadow.
"Since Jovan Station, when you saw him last, he had been saved and taken by agents of the Bando Gora. The cult has been quiet and leaderless since Komari Vosa was slain by Jango Fett eighteen cycles ago. We assume that the Shadow was taken so that he might once more fill the gap of leader, which the Gora need to maintain their fellowship."
Jareen looked at Caden, "Kill the dark jedi and cut this cult's head from its body, and we will assist in making all of your challenges disappear."
Sam dropped the transponder on the ground and smashed it under his metallic foot. Logar looked around the docking bay, making sure that no one was there but them. Brim came down the landing ramp with Farok and Danjapa in tow, "Well, she is in her bed. I do not envy her morning."
:ooc: I need Farok and Brim to give me a UtF check against the following roll:
:00: Opposed UtF +19
(http://rpg.avioc.org/boards/Themes/default/images/dice_warn.gif) This dice roll has been tampered with!
Rolled 1d20+19 : 8 + 19, total 27
Brim's UtF check
DC above Use the Force +8
(http://rpg.avioc.org/boards/Themes/default/images/dice_warn.gif) This dice roll has been tampered with!
Rolled 1d20+8 : 9 + 8, total 17
Farok UtF+10
Rolled 1d20+10 : 15 + 10, total 25
:ooc: is this one of those times were i should use a point to boost the roll?
:ooc: It is not an essential moment, so save your points.
:ooc: I save my points
The light of day was now quickly fading and shadows filled the docking bay where the companions stood, made darker by the mass of the Aegis above them. The quartet chatted quietly to themselves about Kara, but also to get to know one another, as Farok was new to them all. The one-armed man reiterated much that he had already told Brim, except their conversations about the Force. Words also went back and forth regarding the small electronic transponder and what challenges it might now bring for them. To be on guard was the unspoken agreement.
It was then that they all became aware of another standing under the Aegis, near her back starboard landing strut. A cloaked figure that was deeply shadowed due to the lack of light.
Farok stared at the spot where the person had appeared. He assumed by the reaction of his companions that this was not another of their friends. He squared off to the new comer and lowered his hood, "A desert creature knows to hide from the light, but silence is the way of the Jinn, speak the words of welcome and water may be offered to a friend of the sands."
:ooc: I'll try and see what i can observe about this guy.
Perception+11
Rolled 1d20+11 : 8 + 11, total 19
Quote from: tomcat on Jul 27, 2011, 02:53 PM
"We sent the Shadow to clean things up, but through subterfuge. Varta believed that the dark-jedi worked for him. Unfortunately, he too has caused nothing but trouble. Granted it lies on Varta... and you. Still, we are willing to help, if you are willing to help. The Empire is a huge obstacle, but we have people on the inside that can make changes, or distract Thieraan with a new issue. Varta the Hutt can be bought out. All of this we are willing to do, if you and your friends will do one thing for us... kill the Shadow...
Jareen looked at Caden, "Kill the dark jedi and cut this cult's head from its body, and we will assist in making all of your challenges disappear."
"Wait a minute," Caden snapped. "
You sent that guy, and he's almost taken us all out twice already."
Quite by accident, he realized, he had just learned everything he went to Bakura for in the first place. "
Too late for Kal," he mused.
He looked to Antturus with a new-found resolve.
"One, I'm no underworld killer, and two, even if I was, I don't have any idea how to defeat this... Shadow. How come you can't clean up your own mess?"
"
We're not the source of this... it sounds like
you are."
Caden felt trapped. Organa's rebellion was one thing, but
this was entirely another. How did it come to this, besides plain old bad luck?
Quote from: tomcat on Jul 27, 2011, 05:20 PM
It was then that they all became aware of another standing under the Aegis, near her back starboard landing strut. A cloaked figure that was deeply shadowed due to the lack of light.
Kaida's eyes narrowed as she studied the cloaked figure. She wondered if it was the same person she had seen trailing her earlier that afternoon on the streets while shopping with Logar.
"You. Who are you, and what do you want?" She kept her voice firm and commanding. Whomever it was, he hadn't attacked them...yet. So talking was at least still an option.
Throwing caution to the wind, Sam made sure he looked like a simple automaton. He drew his blaster and trained it on the figure, taking several steps away from the group in case something went south and he drew some fire. By all appearances, he was a simple guard droid doing his duty.
Antturus' face cracked into a smile. A real smile. One that would normally cause Caden's skin to crawl. "It's business," he said. "That is all it ever is. You, unfortunately were on the wrong side of it... I am offering you a chance to be on the right side. Help us and we'll help you. It is that simple." He downed his drink and poured himself another glass. "The people I represent have no desire to see the Gora becoming active again. We could probably pull strings and Imperial assets could be employed, but that is like using a chain saw to perform intricate surgery. Nah... you have an interest in seeing the Shadow die, as do we. Do this and your world returns to the way it was - Caden Whitesun, small time merchant traversing the galaxy, hauling legal wares." Caden felt the mocking that was hidden in the words, but he could see Jareen was deadly serious. "Or, walk away and do nothing and it all remains the same. Your choice."
The shadowed figure raised both of his hands to show that he was unarmed, "No need for that. I have no ill intent... I am here on an errand for a mutual friend... a friend who always enjoys a Coruscant morning sunrise."
Quote from: tomcat on Jul 28, 2011, 12:12 PM
Antturus' face cracked into a smile. A real smile. One that would normally cause Caden's skin to crawl. "It's business," he said. "That is all it ever is. You, unfortunately were on the wrong side of it... I am offering you a chance to be on the right side. Help us and we'll help you. It is that simple." He downed his drink and poured himself another glass. "The people I represent have no desire to see the Gora becoming active again. We could probably pull strings and Imperial assets could be employed, but that is like using a chain saw to perform intricate surgery. Nah... you have an interest in seeing the Shadow die, as do we. Do this and your world returns to the way it was - Caden Whitesun, small time merchant traversing the galaxy, hauling legal wares." Caden felt the mocking that was hidden in the words, but he could see Jareen was deadly serious. "Or, walk away and do nothing and it all remains the same. Your choice."
"
Shit," Caden thought. If Antturus' people had pull with the Empire, then he and the Aegis' crew were as good as dead... if Jareen wanted it that way. They were stuck, and Antturus knew it - that's probably why the man approached him so openly, Caden surmised. He could only hope that Antturus had no idea of what else they were doing... and of the passenger they were carrying.
So Caden glared back at the leering Antturus, and said the only thing he could to keep them all alive; even though the cost might be their souls.
"Where do we start? Tell me everything you know."
"Well come in friendship and share the cup with us. Hospitality is offered if the forms are obeyed."
Farok looked at the others to see if these strangers' words meant anything to them.
"It sounds like your friend could do with more of a night life if he is up for the sunrise."
Kara continued to snore.
Kaida recognized the pass phrase and nodded with a relieved smile. "Well good. Do you want to see our cargo? Or meet some place else?"
:ooc: If he wants to see Danjapa she'll show him and then get further instructions.
Farok looked at Brim, the only member of the group that he knew to any degree. He raised an eyebrow, "smuggling?"
Brim looked back at Farok, "No... not really."
The shadowed man dropped back his hood and the companions saw a twinkle of light come from his piercing blue-gray eyes. He moved towards them slowly, "Hello... my name is Ben, and I have been waiting for your arrival. Can we talk on your ship?"
Ben appeared to be in his early 40's with hair that was cut short, as was customary on this planet, although he did support a close-cut beard. Gray was starting to highlight his hair, but still he maintained a youthful vigor about himself. His hooded cloak was the typical Tatooine brown, heavy cloak that aided in keeping the suns from burning the skin. It was dusty and tattered along its base. With it now pulled back and open, they could see he wore loose fitting clothing and boots that came up to his knees. There were no weapons visible.
Jareen smiled, "Good choice!"
He lifted his glass in order to toast, but didn't wait for the return gesture from Caden, as he knew it wouldn't come. Still, the smile on the face never left.
"What do we know? Hmmm... not much. The Bando Gora have kept their operation hidden in regards to their cult. We know that they are a Force-worshipping organization and some members have strange powers. Their drug production is farmed out to worlds where they have had a chance to corrupt some individuals. The only person we know that ever dealt with the Gora and lived to tell about it was Jango Fett - but he died in the Clone Wars. It's been told that he tracked them down through their death stick operation and he had a part in the death of King Sebolto, a Dug on Malistare. Have you seen the Dugs? Horrid creatures... they are walking around on this planet, too. Anyway, Sebolto was a drug lord that had a wide-spread operation and he made a deal with Komari Vosa. His death sticks were laced with the cult's neurotoxin making the drugs more potent and much more addictive. The increase in revenues made both parties extremely happy.
"The Republic was concerned about the potency of the death sticks on the street and had started to invest a lot of assets into the investigation. They never got close... not even with the Jedi Council to help them. In fact, the only time the Jedi engaged the Gora was on the planet Baltizaar and they lost one of their own - Komari Vosa was captured. It is said she was brutally tortured and succumbed to their will. The Bando Gora were happy to escalate her to their leader due to her skill with the Force. But it is said the Fett found their hidden base and killed her. Leaderless, the cult has gone back into deep cover again, though their operations are still somewhat strong.
"The new Empire hasn't had the time to root them out. Darth Vader is busy trying to bend the rest of the galaxy to his will. I am not even sure right now if they even care. Some say that when Vosa died, so did the cult, but we know different. When Varta the Hutt began to move namana onto the streets of worlds that the Gora supply, they began to react.
"Anyway, back to Sebolto - when he died, his operation was maintained by the Gora and another Dug, named Pugwis. Where the trail goes from there, I can't tell you, but it is a place to start. Maybe you could talk to Fett's son, Boba. I am sure he might be able to help." Antturus held out a hand to Caden, "You made the right choice, Whitesun. You have our word that your lives will once more be your own. Just kill the Shadow."
:ooc: Everyone is welcome to roll a Knowledge (Galactic Lore) DC 20 to see if you recognize Ben's face.
:ooc: Doug, since "Ben" and I are the same age, etc... do i have any bonuses to the roll?
Quote from: tomcat on Jul 28, 2011, 09:10 PM
Antturus held out a hand to Caden, "You made the right choice, Whitesun. You have our word that your lives will once more be your own. Just kill the Shadow."
Caden reached out his hand... then used it to grab his drink, shoot it down, and plunk the glass down on the table with a thud.
"One man. Don't ask me for anything else -
ever."
He stood up and all but spat, "I changed my mind.
You're buying."
Caden strode out of the bar, never looking back, wondering what he had become. Then he remembered what Brim had told him - he was becoming what he
needed to be.
"Certainly," Kaida nodded, and ushered Ben on board the ship. She took the man to the lounge where they could all sit and talk but directed Logar, who had the most weaponry, to stand watch outside.
:ooc:
Galactic Lore to Recognize Ben: 1d20+5 : 13 + 5, total 18
:ooc: Galactic Lore +4
Rolled 1d20+4 : 14 + 4, total 18
Logar nodded to Kaida. His feet found a position just outside the Aegis's exit ramp. His eyes were everywhere.
Rolled 1d20+10 : 20 + 10, total 30
Galactic lore plus any other mods.
:ooc: I don't think a mod was necessary, Tom! Nice roll!
For the other two rolls, there is a definite familiarity to the face although you do not know from where. Perhaps from the holonet, news, or some other source. Still, you trust this person.
Brim's roll
:00:
DC 20 Galactic Lore +5Rolled 1d20+5 : 16 + 5, total 21
Naturally, Sam runs every new face he sees through his databanks...though sometimes they are incomplete.
Galactic Lore +5: 1d20+5 : 14 + 5, total 19
Though he could not sense the Jedi as a Force-user, Farok recognized the uncloaked man that stood with them. Obi-wan Kenobi? Farok thought to himself. I thought you died with the rest of 'em.
Brim also was immediately aware of who the Jedi Master was. He stammered with his words, "Y...yes, please come in and make yourself comfortable."
They entered the lounge of the ship and Ben found himself a seat. Brim hurriedly retrieved a cool drink of water from the kitchen and then asked, "You are our contact?" The man nodded. From the opposite side of the table came an exasperated voice, "Can someone please tell me now what is going on? I mean, I appreciate being freed from that prison, but what are you all so interested in me for?"
Ben spoke, "There is plenty to tell you, Antar. Let us just say that you have information that we need and hopefully you will be willing to give. Understand, if you wish no part in any of what I am to say, you may make your own way. Understood?" Obi-wan looked to the others that stood in the chamber and asked again, "Understood?"
Danjapa and Brim nodded, one more aggressively than the other - the engineer still apprehensive as to why he had such benefactors. Sam and Kaida both turned to look at Farok - did they want things revealed to a stranger?
Antturus watched as Caden strode from the bar, his fingers now steepled in front of the wide smile that had yet to fade. He leaned back casually with the satisfaction that he had achieved what he set out to do. Another figure moved to stand next to him once the Bestinian had left the building. Jareen looked up at him, his face once more business. "He accepted. I want you to start putting in place the necessary components to clear them. We will stand by our bargain, as long as they are successful... if not, well they will no longer be a worry," he said non-chalantly. "But hopefully they will be. To splinter the Bando Gora once more will be quite the reward, especially for free!" Well, he knew it would not be for free, but cheaper in time, assets, and people then he wanted to invest. He then had another thought, "Find me Fett. I have heard he resides on this planet, but through the guilds we know that he has one amongst them as a mark. Anyway, if he is here, or not, I want to talk to him."
Outside the cantina, Caden began the walk back to his ship in the growing darkness of Mos Entha. His mind was spinning with the revelations that he had just learned, and those that he had accepted... on all of their behalves.
Caden returned to the Aegis, and seeing no one outside, he figured they had retreated for the night - probably some to Kaida's hotel, and perhaps some to their bunks onboard. He wondered if they had found anything on the ship - Antturrus had been there too long, and he seemed like the type to have an insurance policy or two in place. He also wondered how he'd explain their new "mission". At least he knew that Logar would be up for it...
He opened the landing ramp and stepped inside, only to see everyone gathered in the lounge, along with two new people - and bearded man, and a one-armed one.
"Not again," he thought. Even more people on his ship? "That's it - I'm going to take away their keys."
He stared at the group for a moment, exasperated, before finally speaking.
"Who the hell are these guys?"
Kaida nodded to Caden. "Glad you could return captain. Maybe next time you could turn on your comm. This is Farok, a friend of Brim's other than that I don't know him. The other is... our contact." She glanced meaningfully at Farok so Caden could see. Could this Farok be trusted?
:ooc: Actually Shawn, Logar was standing guard outside at the ship's entrance. I have no problem if he followed Caden on board so that you are all present. I need some PC interaction regarding Farok. I don't wish to bog the story too much with new character approval, but we need it for flow - so debate him, but come to a conclusion soon. ;)
Brim saw Kaida glance at Farok and he knew what her concerns were. The Rodian was the one who had brought the one-armed man into their ship and so he felt obligated to speak for him. "Caden, he is a new friend. He aided me with Kara and has been a good guide within this city. We had all arrived when we noticed our other new acquaintance standing near the ship." Brim gestured towards Ben. "As Kaida said, this is our contact - this is Ben."
Kenobi stood and offered a hand to Caden in greeting. He had a kind face, though his eyes seemed sad and the Tatooine sun had begun to age it prematurely. "Captain, it is a pleasure."
Brim continued to Ben, "I think that we are all in this together, correct?" The Rodian looked at Danjapa, to which the engineer just shrugged in surrender to his fate. Obi-wan crossed his arms, while one hand went to his bearded chin, stroking it. He looked at Brim and Farok with a long gaze and seemed to glean some quiet knowledge. He pointed, "It may be best if you two stick together."
Farok recognized the man immediately after he came into the light. The one armed man had been in the desert a long time, but the sight of the man before him drained the rich dark sun seasoned color from his face. For a moment he closed his eyes in pain as if old memories played again through his head. The name was different but there was no mistaking the man who stood before him. Farok gave a slight bow to the man calling himself Ben. Through his head all he could think of was all the seemingly random unconnected moments that had led him to this one moment in time. Here on Tatoonie he had thought to hide from the Force and the Jedi, and now before him, here on Tatooine, was probably the last Jedi Master in the galaxy.
He walked with the others into the ship, unaware of the looks the companions gave hom, his eyes were riveted to the robed man Ben. Farok spoke to Brim in the ships lounge oblivious of the others around them, "Had I known my day would have brought me to this I would have kept my tongue and never spoken to you." Farok looked at the robed man. He did not want to reveal the man Ben for what he knew him to be, his anger at the Jedi had not devolved into spite.
As a cast out he knew that the man before him by tradition could demand his light saber from him. No matter that he had made it with his own hands, the proscription from the order was clear. It was symbolic, any cast out or failed Padawan would on demand have to surrender their weapon to a legitimate Jedi. Farok knew it was a check against rogues and false Jedi. A legal measure of the old days to protect the order and punish the false, those who resisted were assumed to have darker motives.
Farok felt a need to obey the forms but also to conceal the identity of the man before him. Not without a passing thought he realized how deep the Jedi training had shaped his consciousness and thought patterns.
Farok struggled with whom to address first so just spoke, "I am Farok, the one known in the deep as Sand Walker, a man of the desert, born, lost, reborn, and lost again."
He knew saying that name, the name the deep desert people and huts knew him by, was dangerous. Just by saying it he knew Ardana and he were no longer secure in Mos Ethna, their anonymity potentially compromised. He continued, "So among friends I offer the water I carry for the good of all. As faith in your hospitality Captain Caden I will lay my weapons down." Farok reached to his belt and laid down the obvious retractable baton, and then into the folds of his pinned sleeve he produced the light saber and laid it on the table.
He then spoke the formal words but looked only at Kenobi, "I stand before the tribe as a guest and will keep the peace of the tribe."
Caden was incredulous. Organa's scheme was obviously wide-ranging, but it was clearly fragile.
And they had brought someone they just met into the ship - someone who smelled like he lived in a saloon, by the way - where he could see Danjapa, and told him about their "contact"?
As a noblewoman (or former one, at least), Caden figured that Kaida had never smuggled anything - otherwise she'd be a lot more careful.
"Charmed," was all he managed to say to Farok. "Brim had better be one hell of a judge of character," he thought. He thought it again after the man produced a lightsaber and set it on the table.
He wondered what the Rodian and his new friend would think after Caden explained that they were also about to become a hit squad - but that discussion would come later.
He returned Ben's handshake. "Sorry about the introduction - it's been a long day. Glad you're here. I suppose we have a lot to talk about."
"Aye, we do," was Ben's short reply to Caden. He looked back to Farok and picked the lightsaber up off of the table.
The Jedi Master then turned to Danjapa, "Antar, we are glad you have been successfully rescued and are safe. These people around you were sent by a friend. A man who has taken great risks, along with a few others within the senate, to beging to weave an opposition to the Emperor. Your knowledge of the new expirimental craft, the TX-65..."
"The X-wing?" Danjapa said, straightening his back and becoming more interested in the conversation.
"Yes, that is what I have heard it called."
"The Republic did not show enough interest and now with the Empire, they went with the TIE's."
"Correct," answered Ben. "But the TX-65 does have a potential user. The individuals for whom I have come would like to have you design and build them quite a number of wings of this fighter craft. They have seen the blueprints and the X-wing will make a viable fighter/attack craft with long-reaching capabilities due to its hyperdrive."
"But, why?" Danjapa was confused. "Who are they going to war with?"
Ben looked at the engineer, "The Empire." He let the words sink in a moment. "If it comes to war. Who knows, if the resistance can truly be rallied and in great enough strength, the Emperor's control may falter before he even can bring any assets to stop us. We need you Antar to help us with this. That is why we sent Caden and his crew - to rescue you."
The engineer slowly sat back until he was rigid against the bench, "What about Incom?"
"The company is still operating and there are still more engineers that we need to speak to, but only a few have the intimate undestanding of this craft that you do. We have facilities that can start production... but we need you. What do you say?"
Danjapa had one more question, "Who is we?"
Ben gave him another hard look, "I will only answer that question if I can get your pledge that you will aid us. Otherwise, you are free to leave and find your way." Another moment passed and Antar's mind raced about his recent past. Locked up and beaten by the hands of this new Empire. And why? Because he had knowledge of weapons design. He had loved the Republic and hated what it had become. He nodded, "I will serve this new organization under one condition... that it is its purpose to restore the Republic. To restore democracy to our galaxy."
Obi-wan Kenobi extended his hand once more, "We would have it no other way. I am Obi-wan Kenobi, Jedi Master and I am now in service to Bail Organa and Mon Mothma, along with a few other Senators that have made the desicion to rebel against this new Empire. Senator Iblis of Corellia is waiting word that you are with us and I can have you transported there. The Corellian ship facilities will be available to you to commence your design and building of the proto-type."
Antar Danjapa looked at everyone in the chamber. "So it begins here? Very well, I am in. When do I leave?"
"We will be leaving in a moment. I must finish up with Caden and his crew," answered Ben as he turned to the captain of the Aegis. "Organa sends his thanks and congratulations. You pulled off the mission well and it is his hope that you will be able to assist us from here on out." Obi-wan reached into his robe, "As promised, here are the things that you all had requested."
On the table, the jedi spread out documents and a credit stick. He stood, "Caden, here are documents for your ship. It will give you access to spaceports that are not well tied into the B.O.S.S. There is also identification cards for all of you with new names and identities. Bail is trying to get your legal names cleared, but these must do for the moment. Lastly, as he told you, Organa is willing to support your efforts as he can. The credit stick is an account that is buried under a few front companies and procurement departments that should not bring any attention by using it. There is 35,000 credits available on it and Organa will continue to feed you funds as he can. He asks that you use the money to acquire those things that are needed most for any missions that you handle for he and his friends, but acquire funds of your own to handle your day to day living. He understands that a good portion of the money may be used for start up procurement. Any questions?"
"No," Caden replied. "That's very generous - the credits will help, and the ID's, more so."
He thought about the Shadow, and their "job".
"So we're off to Corellia, then? Before we go, I'd like to discuss something in private, if I may."
He ignored the looks of his shipmates for now; he didn't want to keep them in the dark, but a Jedi master... Caden hoped Kenobi could shed some light on the subject of the Shadow, this Bando Gora, and everything related to them - perhaps even who Antturrus' people were.
Then, if he had a better idea of how to proceed, he'd gladly fill the rest of them in.
"To Corellia? Only if you need to. Danjapa will leave with me - I already have transport arranged. You need do nothing else until you hear from Organa through one of our channels, so don't be shocked if you receive a strange message." He then changed course, "Where would you like to talk in private?"
Caden gestured to his own quarters and Kenobi stood. Before he followed the captain, he looked at Farok and handed the lightsaber back to him. "It is a good weapon, and I can tell it was built by you. You will need it in the coming storm. I have heard of your exploits on this planet and you have been lost. Try to stay on the path of the Force, even if the doubt that took you from the teachings of the Jedi Council still ring loudly within you." Obi-wan pointed to Brim, "Besides, your friend here will surely need training. The Force is strong within him, but he has little knowledge of the ways of the Jedi. You must pass on what has been taught to you - even if you have forgotten your way. May the Force be with you."
Brim and Farok both looked at one another as Obi-wan Kenobi left their company and went with Caden. The Rodian asked no one in particular, "How... did he know?"
Inside Caden's cabin, the Jedi Master looked at his host, "What can I do for you, Captain?"
:ooc: I should have stated this a post ago, but I want to make it understood that the credits are party funds to do with as you please. You guys can split it up evenly, spend it as a group, or not use it until necessary, but it is party treasure.
Caden explained everything to Kenobi; Antturrus' "deal", their tale at Bakura, and how they came to be in Organa's service.
He suspected the Jedi master knew some of it, but not all, and hoped that he might be able to shed light on matters. Who did Antturrus represent? Who were the Bando Gora? How could they wrangle their way out of what seemed to be a mob war and get back to helping this resistance?
He didn't expect Kenobi to approve of Caden's agreement to terminate the Shadow (something, given their experiences in the past, that Caden wasn't sure they could accomplish anyway), but he knew he needed some guidance nevertheless, and this man seemed preternaturally wise. More than that, unlike Antturrus, Caden knew Kenobi was on his side.
He could handle flying by the seat of his pants, but the storm that grew around them was so large, and had formed so quickly, that Caden felt far out of his element.
Obi-wan listened quietly while Caden recounted his tale - only adding a nod here or there. Once done, the Bestinian sat down and looked to the Jedi for answers.
Kenobi started, "I have a bad feeling about this. You all have definitely gotten yourselves into a jam." He stared at the floor, "Hmmm... I knew Ulric's master, Korif Tau. He apparently died over Coruscant when Grievous attacked. I myself was on Grievous' ship rescuing the Chancellor. Anyway, I digress.
"I will start by telling you what I know and from there, hopefully you will be able to find your right path. First, Antturus is a name that I am familiar with. As you surmised, he is a gangster although I am certain he is not involved with the Hutts. I lean towards a larger organization, although some say it is just a myth - the Black Sun. Have you heard of it?"
Caden had.
"It would seem that of the three parties involved, two are going to be at odds and the third is willing to play you against them both. Meaning - Varta and the Gora are clashing in their illicit trade, but the Sun will use you to play against the others thus weakening their opposition. It is a rather bold tactic.
"As for the Bando Gora, I thought the cult had fallen apart years ago. There was a time before the Clone Wars when the Outer Rim was having terrible troubles with the Gora. Large corporations were being pressured to do the cult's will, and if they opposed them, key leaders would be assassinated or found mysteriously dead. It had a crippling effect. The Jedi Council was implored to act on behalf of the Republic after the planet Baltizaar was attacked by the cult. It was Count Dooku that had been given the command to lead an expedition of Jedi against the Bando Gora, but he left the Jedi Order before the team departed for the planet. We of course know that he betrayed us all and soon came to lead the CIS against the Republic. It was Dooku's padawan, Komari Vosa that was lost on Baltizaar. I understand that she fell to the Dark side and quickly rose amongst the ranks of the cult to eventually lead them.
"And then they were gone, again. Why I don't know but I had heard for good, but not so based on what you are saying." Obi-wan did his characteristic stroking of his beard, while his mind put the story pieces together. "And now you say another Force-user leads the cult. Most likely another fallen Jedi... so many in these dark times."
The Jedi master looked up at Caden, "You have a lot on your plate. You can walk away, but it seems that greater powers now are attempting to direct your path, or remove you permanently from it." He came to a conclusion and outlined his thoughts, "By eliminating the Shadow, you will help the Republic by sending the Bando Gora cult back into anarchy where hopefully it will tear itself apart. The problem with the Hutts and the involvement on Bakura will go away, if this Antturus can be trusted. And if it is the only thing that they have requested of you, then you walk away with your freedom, relatively clean of the world in which you have been immersed.
"If Antturus truly has the capability to do what he says.
"Organa may be able to get it done, but it will take time as he must employ subterfuge to work within this new Empire. For now, he has created you new identities, which you must embrace or live as outlaws. Lastly, if the galaxy goes to war again with itself, it all may not matter." He sighed, "You are on your own Caden. I am sorry to say, but Senator Organa will not be able to support you on this mission. I cannot tell you what to do, I can only offer advice. As a Jedi, I must always be wary and even now I hide on this world, and so you have to decide your own path.
"It is the old adage, 'the devil you know is better than the one you do not.' Antturus may be your best ally here and you may acheive everything that you want, but be careful as to how much credit you take from these people. They are draconian businessmen who will get what they are owed, plus interest."
Kenobi looked at Caden symapthetically. He had nothing more to give or say.
Caden nodded. It seemed they had little choice but to assist Antturrus anyway, and if Kenobi thought the removal of the Shadow was beneficial, then at least some good would come of it, and perhaps they'd be free to live their lives once more.
It was worth the gamble, he figured.
Armed with new identities, fresh credits and a new purpose - they were going hunting.
********
After he had spoken with Kenobi, he rounded up the crew, making sure to include Farok. If he had Kenobi's blessing, well, Caden had taken on the others with a lot less than that.
"We're all tired of being hunted," he started. "Now, we have an opportunity to become the hunters."
He explained what he had learned from Antturrus, and about how it seemed that they could destroy the Shadow - and help themselves and this region of the galaxy - or be more vulnerable then ever; hunted by the Empire and by the drug-dealers.
But they had advantages; Antturrus clearly did want them to succeed, for his own reasons, and the new identities provided by Senator Organa would make traveling easier. And in the end, the Shadow had them on the run and in his sights, anyway. Another confrontation seemed inevitable, but this time, he hoped, they wouldn't be playing defense.
"I'm tired of running," Caden explained. "Anyone else?"
"Captain, I am with you always. I prefer to look ahead than over my shoulder."
:ooc: What I want to make sure that I am getting across, too, is:
- That Organa is trying to quietly, and semi-legally clean your records. In the meantime, all he can offer is new identities.
- While Antturus can make all the bad go away by a simple word, due to the internal connections that they have, giving your lives back completely... who says crime doesn't pay? ;)
Now yes, government officials should have the same kind of savvy and pull, but this is a bad time to be a government person. Senators are being watched, eliminated, etc. Whereas people outside the rules have an easier time, as long as they don't get caught.
Okay, in regards to the hunt that you guys may commence - it is not necessary that it happens immediately. The Aegis can sit on Tatooine for a few weeks if you want and Sam can work, Logar can buy equipment, the Aegis can get upgrades, etc.
Just let me know what you guys want to do.
Quote from: tomcat on Aug 01, 2011, 01:04 PM
:ooc: What I want to make sure that I am getting across, too, is:
Okay, in regards to the hunt that you guys may commence - it is not necessary that it happens immediately. The Aegis can sit on Tatooine for a few weeks if you want and Sam can work, Logar can buy equipment, the Aegis can get upgrades, etc.
Just let me know what you guys want to do.
:ooc: The Hutts are here, we can reload/upgrade, and as long as we can learn something, I don't mind sticking around if anyone has something else to do/RP.
Kenobi exited the captain's quarters and returned to the group that sat in the lounge. He looked to Danjapa, "Gather your things, Antar. We must be on our way."
The engineer smiled, "I have nothing but these clothes. I am ready."
Obi-wan looked to the group. He knew that Caden had just discussed with them that which he had brought to the Jedi. This was a mission that they were on their own and so all he could offer were words. "I do not envy you this task, but it seems that the only way for you to have your freedom restored, you must pass through this shadow. Trust in each other and trust in the Force. It will see you through." He looked at the Rodian and the former Jedi padawan, Farok, "Find your path again. Carry on what you were taught and teach it to your companion. The Order is all but extinct now, save those few that still hold the knowledge of what was - and we are all in hiding. I wish you luck... may the Force be with you."
Danjapa stood and walked to where Kenobi was waiting. The Jedi looked at them all once more, "We shall be in touch with you soon. Organa is already plotting another move to spark the fires of resistance and to grow our assets. But it takes time and stealth, so do not expect a blatant call to you. It will be a subtle communique. Is there anything else?" He looked around, "If not, we are on our way."
:ooc: Okay... posting has dragged to a bit of a halt here, but if you guys want to talk to a Jedi Master, now is the time. I am going to start a new thread, but feel free to talk to Kenobi if you want to.
Farok said nothing and was as still as the sand scoured rock of the desert while Kenobi was on the ship. Once he had left with Caden he looked at the young Rodian by his side, "that was most likely the last Jedi master in the galaxy, of course he knows things. He also gave not a thought or a care to you or me. Words he offered, and words that no doubt to him carried great wisdom and sage like advice, but has it helped either one of us? That Brim is a Jedi of the old order, who no doubt passes his days reflecting on the meaning of each word and syllable of the code you spoke of earlier. Make no mistake, he did great deeds in times past, but his need to hide is as great as our own. At least I had the courtesy to warn you of the hunters, he only confirms that we are pawns in his own games."
Farok picked up his baton and placed it back upon his belt, he scowled slightly as he thought about Kenobi. The more pressing matter of how the Force had dragged him into this was more on his mind. How in the nine levels of hell had he survived and hidden on the same planet as Kenobi, the galaxy was in fact a very small place compared to the force. As Farok thought about it he found that the thought became words spoken to Brim, "the galaxy is a very small place compared to the force." His scowl deepened...
Farok watched Kenobi go and had no other words for him. Once he was off of the ship he spoke again to Brim, "I will not be as obtuse as that one. While you are here I will freely share with you what I know. I will not go to the hubris of having you call me Master, or the fault of calling you an apprentice, but if you wish to share knowledge at least for the time that you are on Tatooine I will accommodate. It doesn't appear that the Captain of your ship his happy to see me. It is of no matter as I have obligations elsewhere as well."
Farok picked up the lightsaber from the table where he placed it while Kenobi was still on the ship, it snapped alive and had the changing colors of deep glacial ice. "To begin with, do you know the making of one of these or were you given yours?"
Farok stayed several hours on the ship making sure that the Rodian knew at least not to maim himself or others with the weapon he carried. Farok smiled before he took his leave of the ship for the night, "perhaps I will in time show you the Sand Walker's charge." Farok laughed at the comment, a genuine full laugh and slapped the Rodian on the shoulder with his good hand. "Tomorrow we will try this sober."
Quote from: sdrotar on Aug 01, 2011, 12:48 PMAfter he had spoken with Kenobi, he rounded up the crew, making sure to include Farok. If he had Kenobi's blessing, well, Caden had taken on the others with a lot less than that.
"We're all tired of being hunted," he started. "Now, we have an opportunity to become the hunters."
He explained what he had learned from Antturrus, and about how it seemed that they could destroy the Shadow - and help themselves and this region of the galaxy - or be more vulnerable then ever; hunted by the Empire and by the drug-dealers.
But they had advantages; Antturrus clearly did want them to succeed, for his own reasons, and the new identities provided by Senator Organa would make traveling easier. And in the end, the Shadow had them on the run and in his sights, anyway. Another confrontation seemed inevitable, but this time, he hoped, they wouldn't be playing defense.
"I'm tired of running," Caden explained. "Anyone else?"
:ooc: Hey Tom, I moved your post here as it fell in game time here, more than where you had posted it. Above you will see the post from Shawn re: Caden's inclusion of Farok in the team's upcoming challenge.
If that changes anything with your post above, go ahead and do it.
:ooc: Kaida approaches Master Kenobi before he leaves.
Kaida sat stunned at seeing Master Kenobi for several long minutes as conversation bubbled around her on the ship. She had thought all the Jedi Masters had been purged from the galaxy.
She waited for a moment when she could draw him aside for a few minutes. "Master Kenobi," she said, taking his hand and bowing politely, but with great sincerity. "It pleases me greatly to know you are alive and that you too are aiding Organa to fight against this darkness." She was genuinely pleased. She knew Obiwan was only one man. But even if only shards of a remnant of the Jedi Order remained in the galaxy, that meant there was something. Some hope for a restored republic where the voice of all free peoples would again hold sway.
"We have all suffered at the hands of this new tyranny. My family--" her voice broke momentarily and she struggled to regain her composure. "-- they were cut down some killed when the Empire invaded Commenor. Some were captured. Sam here, our droid, found records that my sister, Senator Kilstara, is or was in a re-education camp. Do you know anything of her current status, or anyone else of my family?"
She continued. "I want to help them, and I believe helping them could help foment a stronger resistance. We of Commenor, did not, after all, go quietly when other systems around us caved into Palpatine's demands."
Obi-wan shook his head, "I am sorry, I do not know anything of what happened to the House Katan of Commenor. When the Empire began its bombardment of your planet, we were already in hiding - or at least trying to evade the Imperial Inquisitors. I have heard through the holonet and othe means of your father's death, along with your brother. Unfortunately, I cannot aid you with any new knowledge." Kenobi's face truly showed a pained expression of sorrow. "These have been hard times, and so much has been lost. I know only that if your heart stays true, you will be reunited with your loved ones, and the strength that you shall bring to the resistance will be beyond match. I wish you much luck... may the Force be with you and help guide you."
:ooc: Going back and adding in Kaida's response to the conversation on the ship with CadenQuote from: sdrotar on Aug 01, 2011, 12:48 PM
After he had spoken with Kenobi, he rounded up the crew, making sure to include Farok. If he had Kenobi's blessing, well, Caden had taken on the others with a lot less than that.
"We're all tired of being hunted," he started. "Now, we have an opportunity to become the hunters."
He explained what he had learned from Antturrus, and about how it seemed that they could destroy the Shadow - and help themselves and this region of the galaxy - or be more vulnerable then ever; hunted by the Empire and by the drug-dealers.
But they had advantages; Antturrus clearly did want them to succeed, for his own reasons, and the new identities provided by Senator Organa would make traveling easier. And in the end, the Shadow had them on the run and in his sights, anyway. Another confrontation seemed inevitable, but this time, he hoped, they wouldn't be playing defense.
"I'm tired of running," Caden explained. "Anyone else?"
"I'm as tired of running too," Kaida responded. "Eliminating this darksider will give us some breathing room. But what of the larger goal? How will it help with bringing down the Empire?" And how will it help me find my family? She decided to make a bid. She looked at Caden and the crew. "I will do all I can to assist you in this, but in turn, I ask that you all consider a larger goal. There is another mission, perhaps just as dangerous. Some of you know that my sister, Kilstara Katan, was a senator in the Republic. Now at the Empire's hand, senators who opposed Palpatine are being reeducated or eliminated on a mere whisper of rebellion. From the information Sam retreived from the prison database, we know that she has been captured by the empire and held in a re-education facility. If we could find and rescue her, we could gain an important ally. Perhaps one with not so many resources as Organa; but even so, combined, the two of them could certainly start something...larger."
Quote
"I'm as tired of running too," Kaida responded. "Eliminating this darksider will give us some breathing room. But what of the larger goal? How will it help with bringing down the Empire?" And how will it help me find my family? She decided to make a bid. She looked at Caden and the crew. "I will do all I can to assist you in this, but in turn, I ask that you all consider a larger goal. There is another mission, perhaps just as dangerous. Some of you know that my sister, Kilstara Katan, was a senator in the Republic. Now at the Empire's hand, senators who opposed Palpatine are being reeducated or eliminated on a mere whisper of rebellion. From the information Sam retreived from the prison database, we know that she has been captured by the empire and held in a re-education facility. If we could find and rescue her, we could gain an important ally. Perhaps one with not so many resources as Organa; but even so, combined, the two of them could certainly start something...larger."
Caden nodded. "The enemy of my enemy, right?"
He figured they'd be doing that soon, anyway... or Kaida would lead a mutiny.
"I haven't even gotten paid for carting
you around yet," he reminded with a laugh. "Your family had better be
loaded."
"Don't worry, Captain," She said with some exasperation. "You'll get your money. And I assure you it will be worth your while. I just have to arrange some things first."
Logar'Dan had a hard time with his feelings for Kaida. Not the kind of feelings that make your britches tighter he thought with a smile. He wanted to help her. To find her family, to start a rebellion. The thought of it would have had him laughing out loud a few years back. He was no longer looking out for number one though. Hed decided when Britton fell that he would step up to take the soldiers place at her side. Wherever she went, he would be there with a bloody blade or a smoking rifle in his hands. His mother would be proud. He made his eyes meet hers but not for long for fear of his emotions showing through. "Im in. The shadow, your sister, the rebellion. Whatever it takes. Im going to make contact with the that gunrunner and see about some better armor if thats ok. Ill need some credits. And a shopping list if you all need something nows the time."