Open Event Newbie Event: Crisis on Verona

[Cremek "Krayt" Candorus]

cremek simply loomed, watching, clearing his throat before speaking himself, quietly advising the old king.

"They fear the king, they fear his station, everyone does, can you not see, mighty king, they seek to dissuade you on the negotiation table since they clearly can not approach you militarily, they hire the jedi to try and intimidate you, do not be dissuaded, wise lord, your cause must stay true, else your hopes for such a marvelous station will be in the hands of your bitter enemy, it would be wise to treat this jedi as a spy for them, here to steer you off course."

the Mandalorian gave a bow.

"It is clear that they wish to install a new seat of government with the friar, another enemy to your growing power, the fools seek to challenge the inevitable, stay your course, and all will go well my liege."

@vinter @Stump @KaraLi @Aberforth @KaraLi @Javier esschoolbus

 

[ikaran]

Ikaran got up and excused himself from the king’s presence. “Forgive me your royalty, but i must be leaving now, I have a family emergency.” Ikaran then left the room en route to the church. He needed a disguise he was obviously not wanting peace just simply by appearance.

He had decided he didn’t want to get involved head on with the peacemaker. He could get close and listen in on the conversation as an altar boy. Ikaran had now transported himself to the church by a speeder he found laying about. He had hoped no one had loved the speeder to much.

Ikaran was now nearing the building, he had walked around endlessly looking at the layout it was a large building. Stained glass windows depicting events he had no belief in. Finally he had peered in a window with what he wanted a changing room.

Ikaran opened the window slowly and climbed in. He took an outfit that suited him, changed and hid his belonging into a nearby locker. Now dawning a new disguise he walked out the room. Seeing many other altar boys he knew they wouldn’t know everyone of each other. He walked through to where he seen the friar, a mandolorian, and another, talking. he looked at the others that looked like him and mimicked their actions. He grabbed a broom set, and began sweeping listening in on the conversation.

@Javier esschoolbus @Marianne @BlueGreen

 

[The Storyteller]

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C R I S I S _ O N _ V E R O N A
Summer 2023: New Members Event

M A R C E L L U S _ M O N T A G U E

Marcellus's thoughts strayed to the delicate figure of the Capulet heiress, her captivating presence seared into his memory. His heart, caught in the constrictive snare of hopeless affection, yearned for her, the prospect of peace a gateway to his clandestine desires. Yet his pragmatism and diplomatic obligations beckoned him to remain in the present moment.

He surveyed the room, observing the underlying tension amongst the new arrivals. The Capulet representative, despite his gnarled voice and hardened demeanor, failed to mask an undercurrent of aggression. It was the brash young Jedi, however, who caught his attention. Her audacious remark was bold, even by the standards of the youthful audacity he had come to associate with Jedi knights.

"Peace is not a healer of wounds, Adora, but rather a balm against future infliction," he responded calmly, his eyes softening. "Our guest's voice is a reminder of past transgressions and wars we aim to avoid."

Turning his attention back to Davin, Marcellus shifted the conversation. "We may all bear scars, visible or not. Instead of antagonizing each other, let us focus on the discourse at hand, Ambassador," he suggested, offering a conciliatory smile.

Standing to his feet, Marcellus traced the air with his fingers, an intricate holographic map of Verona materializing. "Each House has its interests," he began, his voice steady as he pointed out key locations. "Yet our future lies not in division, but unity. The prosperity of Verona depends on our ability to compromise."

Avoiding the suggestion of a new summit, Marcellus knew the necessity of a tactical approach. The web of political intrigue was far too complex to untangle in a single meeting. "Let us explore all viable options for negotiation and identify potential areas of cooperation," he proposed. "Then, we can work towards building a better Verona, one where each House can thrive."

It was a vision, a vision stained with the hues of love and peace, but Marcellus clung onto it with unwavering tenacity, hoping it was not simply a chimera born out of his besotted heart.

@Skippypls @Stump

__K I N G _ T H E S E U S _ C A P U L E T

An imperious silence unfurled within the throne room as Theseus absorbed the flurry of words. The pleas for peace, the palpable tension, the thinly veiled insults - they were all mere noise, washing over him like irrelevant whispers in the wind.

His eyes, ablaze with a fierce determination, were the epitome of a ruler's resolve. They shifted from Rair, the blind Jedi whose sincere words rang with a resonance that threatened to penetrate his stalwart resolve, to the Mandalorian, who was a silent sentinel of advice. Each held their own points, yet it was the pervading sense of challenge and opposition that spurred his temperament to flare.

"Enough!" His voice was thunderous, echoing through the room, making the polished durasteel surfaces vibrate subtly with its force. His temper, usually held at bay with the iron will of a king, threatened to break free. He could taste the bitter tang of his impatience, a potent cocktail of ambition and resentment.

"I have listened, and now you will hear me. My people hunger, yes, but for progress and prosperity. We build the station not as a weapon, but as a beacon of advancement. It is House Montague's short-sightedness that they see in it a threat!" The last word was laced with a venomous scorn.

His gaze landed on Trael, the mercenary’s insinuation causing a knot of irritation in his stomach. "You speak of my blind ambition," he scoffed, "yet offer drastic measures before exhausting diplomatic ones. It is easy to advocate for war when it is not your people on the front line."

Rising from his throne, he paced the chamber, a predator in his court, his anger a crimson cape swirling around him. His next words were directed towards the Jedi. "Rair, your offer of assistance intrigues me. You ask why Montagues believe my station to be a weapon. It is a paranoia fed by their lack of vision."

His fingers traced the edges of his throne, feeling the cold precision of its design. "If your words hold truth, then prove it. Investigate the station yourself, all of you. Reveal the truth to Montagues, and if they still refuse to see reason, then we shall know their true intent."

Unsettlingly, he found himself clinging to the hope that this Jedi, a stranger in his court, might prove to be the key to unravel this knot of conflict. With that the king rose and retreated to his own chambers, dismissing his guests.

@theaveragejedishadow @KaraLi @Javier esschoolbus

__F R I A R _ L A W R E N C E

The meandering dance of sunlight through the intricate stained-glass windows created a motley orchestra of color on the cold stone floor. In the hallowed stillness of the chamber, Friar Lawrence marinated on the words of those before him. His keen eyes flickered between Caeli and Ja'Rek, each weaving a narrative that hummed with different notes.

"My dear children," his voice was as smooth as polished marble, echoing the tranquility of the holy space, yet hinting at an underlying resilience. It carried the weight of years spent observing the fickle nature of power, the rise and fall of kings and houses.

Caeli's proposition sounded innocuous, perhaps even admirable. But the Friar, ever the seasoned strategist, discerned a potential gambit beneath the veneer of peace talks. Was it an attempt to tilt the scales in favor of the Jedi, to entrench their influence in Verona's politics? He mused.

And then there was Ja'Rek. The Mandalorian whose request for a private conversation stirred the still waters of his thoughts. The word 'unity' hung in the air like a delicate spider's thread - almost invisible but pregnant with possibilities. His eyes met Ja'Rek's, a tacit acknowledgment of the unspoken undertones.

"Peace and unity, indeed," he began, offering a benign smile, "Your intentions are as noble as they are vital for Verona's future." His gaze rested on Caeli, "A second peace summit could indeed serve as a path to reconciliation."

As he spoke, his senses drank in the sacred atmosphere of his beloved church. The subtle scent of ancient manuscripts, the dim, diffused light casting long shadows, the ethereal whispers of history echoing from the vaulted ceilings. This was his world, his domain, and he would be damned if he let it be trampled by the lust for power.

"However," he continued, fingers absently tracing the worn surface of the stone altar, "It would serve our cause best if we are prepared and united in our approach. Perhaps, Ja'Rek and I should indeed discuss the... personal matter... he alluded to, before we proceed with any grand schemes."

His gaze swept across the two figures, assessing, calculating. A Jedi, a Mandalorian, and a Friar; what strange tapestry fate was weaving in the vast expanse of the galaxy.

"Meanwhile, Padawan Caeli," Friar Lawrence's gaze shifted back to the Jedi, "You could conduct a thorough outreach within Verona. Speak to its people, understand their perspectives. It's essential that we are not blindsided by the intricacies of the public sentiment when we gather for the peace summit."

@Marianne @BlueGreen @vinter

__O O C _ N O T E S

Not much to say this turn. Keep the great posts coming! Some of you have be given missions besides just talking to NPCs, so you can go and do that (and I'll tell you the results of your efforts in 48 hours), or choose to do something completely different. It's up to you.

For other new members looking to join, it is still time. In fact, the mission report was just updated summarizing what the current players have been up to! Don't hesitate to communicate with me either here or on the site if you have any questions.

M I S S I O N S _ R E P O R T

JEDI ORDER

The Jedi faction, composed of Rair, Caeli Veridia, and Adora, is currently split across different tasks. The Jedi, adhering to their principles of peace and understanding, aim to mediate between the feuding houses and prevent a violent conflict.

Rair has been engaging in diplomacy with King Theseus of House Capulet, seeking to understand the reasons behind the Capulets' plans for a new space station and their ongoing feud with House Montague.

Caeli Veridia is attempting to establish communication with Friar Lawrence and his organization, with Caeli proposing a second peace summit to be held at the monastery.

Meanwhile, Adora is at the meeting with Marcellus Montague, striving to assert her position while gauging the intentions of those present.

Objectives:

• Bring the feuding factions of both Houses back to the negotiation table [started]
• Expose the Sith self-interested involvement in the conflict [not started]

SITH ORDER

The Sith faction, composed of Davin Tillisk, Ikaran, Trael Osso, and Cremek Candorus, are playing a more aggressive game. The Sith faction seems to be maneuvering the situation towards their advantage, possibly aiming to exploit the chaos for their own gains.

Davin Tillisk, disguised as an ambassador for House Capulet, is engaged in a delicate and potentially dangerous dance of diplomacy with Marcellus Montague of House Montague.

Trael Osso is actively challenging King Theseus' expansionist views, arguing against blind ambition. Cremek Candorus, on the other hand, is advising Theseus to consider the Jedi a threat, even suggesting that they could be working as spies for House Montague.

Ikaran, for his part, has taken on a covert role, adopting the disguise of an altar boy to gain insider information from the church.

Objectives:

• Ensure the successful construction of House Capulet's space station [not started]
• Covertly infiltrate House Capulet/Montague to cause discord and nurture resentment [started]

THIRD PARTIES

Ja'Rek, the lone Mandalorian bounty hunter, has aligned himself neither with the Jedi nor the Sith. He is currently engaged in a dialogue with Friar Lawrence and has expressed a desire to support the friar's efforts to bring peace and unity to Verona. His intentions remain somewhat murky, however, as he has requested a private meeting with the Friar, potentially indicating personal motivations that have yet to be revealed.

Objectives:

• Spark a grassroots revolution promoting the wisdom offered by Friar Lawrence [started]
• Expose the hidden manipulations of both the Sith and Jedi [not started]

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[Cremek "Krayt" Candorus]

Cremek gave a freindly bow, putting on the guise of him respecting the kings word, shooting a glare as his fellow, before giving him a nod, he would handle the old king, ever the mastermind. He then looked to the Jedi, shooting daggers at her, both his culture and his religion considered her a anathema, and he wanted nothing more than to stomp her out.

He gently removes his helmet, shaking his head, he decided to play the role of a humble, freindly mercenary, ever the master of keeping his emotions in check, he gave a warm smile to the Jedi that appeared genuine, his face displaying next to no dark side corruption save for his pale-ish skin, but that easily could be confused with lack of sun, that and his canines being slightly sharper and more pronounced than normal, dispite this, he had quite the charasmatic arua around him that made it feel like he belonged wherever he was.

He ruffles his smoke black hair.

"If I'm being honest, I do hope we don't have to resort to bloodshed.. my aim hasn't been the best since my last gig.."

@KaraLi @Aberforth @Stump @vinter @Javier esschoolbus

 

[Rair]

Tonight the wall is coming down​

I am stronger than my fears

This is the mountain that I climb​

​

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​

There is no emotion, there is peace.
There is no passion, there is serenity.

These words floated through Rair's head again and again as she calmed herself in front of the others. The words of the Mandalorian, especially, threatened to put her in a defensive posture, but she wasn't here to deal with them. She was here to deal with the King and he seemed to have had enough. A single word from him filled the air and she felt her own body tense up, unsure of where this was heading.

As the monarch spoke, the edges of her lips curled up into a gentle smile. For a moment she was worried the man's own paranoia would win the day, but, whether it was her words of support or the others' words of violence and supposition, Theseus seemed to side with sense and away from the knife's edge he was walking.

"That's very gracious of you, your highness. I'll not let the opportunity be squandered. Thank you." She offered the man another bow as he exited. Once he was gone, she straightened up and turned to the other men present in the room. "First, let me say thank you. It seems your pushing helped my plea for peace, and I appreciate that. Second... we Jedi aren't hired. You both claimed we were, but that's not how it works. We're here to help, that means we're not paid."

She didn't trust either of the men before her and she didn't need the force to tell her they were bad news, but getting into an argument with them wouldn't help her cause either.

"Since we've all been invited to examine the station, shall we go together? I just need a moment to check in with my friends and then we can take a shuttle there together."

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Got 100 steps to go

Tonight I'll make it 99​

@theaveragejedishadow | @Javier esschoolbus

 

[Cremek "Krayt" Candorus]

Cremeks smile turned into more of a smirk, this is quite the opportunity, yes..

"Can I be honest?.. I detest violence.. but I was hired to make sure he's safe, and I guess my innate hostility towards Jedi guided my hand."

He gives a polite chuckle, extending his hand to shake.

"I'm malric Fenn, may I have the honor of knowing your name?"

He said with a perky attitude, like a man who could consider everyone a potential freind the half smirk became a full grin, freindly and approachable.

"I'm willing to put my.. dislike aside and work to see this house successful though, I have a feeling we'll make one hell of a team."


@Javier esschoolbus @KaraLi

 

[Davin Tillisk]

"No one has ever said that to me," Davin whispered with a grin growing on his face. "I like that you're blunt to an offense. We probably won't see eye to eye on many things, Adora, but you have my respect." Davin whispered and then cleared his throat. "It would be easy to repair the damage in my throat and I'm sure my voice makes me seem distrustful, but it's out of principle. I made a mistake and this is my reminder to never repeat it," The warrior felt naked without his former master's skull that he hid away with his robe. He scratched at his throat. Never has Davin said so much to another about his flawed reasoning for not getting treatment.

Davin considered Lord Montague's words further. "I learned that the Sith believe peace is a lie and there is some truth to that. All we can ever truly hope for is for a little quiet every now and then. If someone has something; there will be someone else who wants to take it. We can talk about what's best for the people and the two houses, to find some kind of compromise, and to find that little bit of quiet. I'd rather talk about something else though. What do you want, Lord Montague?" Davin's voice became a hoarse crackle by the end of his speech. He pulled out a white handkerchief and coughed into it. As he pulled it away, specks of crimson revealed itself on the cloth. Davin sighed and folded it up before placing it on the table. The bacta tank didn't sound so bad after all.

@Aberforth @Skippypls

 

[Adora]

Adora was surprised at the ambassador's candor, but it took every fiber of her being not to scoff. On the one hand, the ambassador's reluctance to treat his vocal chords was admirable. On the other hand, it was self-serving and despicable. Adora saw the devestation on Kashyyyk, caused by the very Sith he quoted about "peace." She would have done anything to save them from that fate or to heal every wound from victims that she saw. Not treating his wounds when he had the opportunity? It was a slap in the face.

Chit. She needed to control her emotions.

Easier said than done.

"I would be happy to pay for your treatments, should you change your mind." Well, the Jedi Order would, if she could convince them, but that didn't need to be said.

Oh and the thing about the Sith? Yeah, she wasn't going to hold back. "Yeah, peace is a lie when the Sith bombard a whole planet and destroy its people," she muttered. "But, some things are best left in the past," she tried to believe the words as she said them. "Some people want revenge for what happened on Kashyyyk, but that continues the cycle of violence. Destruction will be perpetual, with peace falling further and further away." Words from her former master; they seemed to align with the heir's thoughts on his own state of affairs.

"I won't pretend to know the history between your House and the Capulets," she turned her attention to the Montague heir. "But maybe it is best to approach this situation with a clean slate. This space station could act as a beacon of unity, its operations split between your Houses, and perhaps a third party representing your subjects..." she trailed off. Friar Lawrence was implied, but she didn't say his name.

Adora could sense another avenue for peace as she glanced at the Montague heir. She couldn't discern what it was, but when the Force spoke, she listened. It was about the only thing she listened to besides her late master. Well, most of the time. Perhaps the opportunity would present itself eventually.

Adora sighed, and wondered how her fellow Jedi were doing.

@Aberforth | @Stump​

 

[Ja'Rek]

There was something about the Friar's smile and his comments that made Ja’Rek think not only did he understand but that the Friar had indeed already had the wheels of change in motion, particularly in the way he dismissed the Jedi so deftly.

He walked closer to the Friar to discuss plans more confidentially, Ja’Rek spotted an altar boy sweeping, was he looking at them? No surely not, it was just his paranoia kicking in again, this was a safe place.

Ja’Rek was convinced that the Friar was up to something, he leaned closer to the Friar and as quietly as he could“Friar Lawrence, I have reason to believe that you have intentions to solve this latest conflict of many between the two houses by more direct means, the discord between the two houses has been going on for too long, and it has only caused suffering and division. It is time for a change” Ja’Rek paused, momentarily unsure of himself, maybe he had misread the whole situation……..?

Regardless he pushed on with his statement “The words you are using talk of revolution rather than resolution, and if that is the case then you must already have people working in the shadows to bring your plan to fruition?”

Ja’Rek knew that the current state of affairs in Venona was untenable, the people were suffering, and something needed to be done “If I am correct, I am here to support your efforts, for a price of course.” Ja’Rek thought that last statement might irk the Friar, but the Friar was a smart man surely he wouldn’t think Ja’Rek was doing this out of the goodness of his heart, “Once we have concluded here, I will take some time to visit the other houses and the people of Verona to try and get additional information”

 

[Trael Osso]

The kings words a challenge to his challenge. Then siding with the jedi it took a great deal of Trael's being to calm himself not pulling the king to him begging for mercy. Yet he prevailed keeping composed he looked over at the back and forth of the other two sighing. "I will be waiting at the shuttle don't take too long you two." His tone teasing different than the seriousness it carried during the audience. With that he leaves calling Davin. "Ambassador this is Perilon Odessus, we are escorting a member of the jedi order to examine the station. After which we will head to the estate as to ascertain the situation with what you have discussed." With that he heads to the palaces shuttle grounds awaiting the other two sent to the station.

@theaveragejedishadow @KaraLi @Stump @Aberforth

 

[Rair]

Tonight the wall is coming down​

I am stronger than my fears

This is the mountain that I climb​

​

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​

"A pleasure to meet you, Malric Fenn," the young woman said with a smile as she stared straight ahead at him. Even as his hand reached out, she didn't move. She was blind, after all. Perhaps she simply missed it? Certainly she made no motion as if to suggest she had seen the action and was just ignoring it. Offering him a small nod of her head, however, she was respectful as she returned his introduction. "As I told King Theseus, my name is Rair. I'm going to step out and check in with my friends quickly. I'll meet you on the shuttle?"

The knight didn't really bother waiting for a reply, her feet carrying her out of the throne room quickly. When she was certain there was no one nearby, she pulled up her comm and sent a quick message to the padawans.

"This is Rair checking in. I'll be visiting the Capulet's space station to check it out and ensure there's no weapons on it before the peace negotiations. Give me an all clear if you can't talk but everything is fine, otherwise a status report would be welcome. If you're in trouble, don't respond." Basic, simple instructions, hopefully enough to give the other two any backup they might need. Now she just needed to add her own warning. "I'll be giving an update going forward, just a quick beep of my comms. If you don't hear that regularly, the two... mercenaries escorting me have likely turned on me. My droid on my ship is taking a recording of this, so if you need, she can provide the record to anyone who may need to know."

It wasn't a perfect fail-safe, she knew. They could try and twist it as a frame job or something else, but at the very least it would provide some warning to the padawans that the danger was more imminent.

With the check-in complete, Rair moved towards the shuttle to meet the other two.

BEEP.

----------------------------------------
Got 100 steps to go

Tonight I'll make it 99​

@theaveragejedishadow | @Skippypls | @Marianne

 

[Cremek "Krayt" Candorus]

"oh wow, believe me, If I wanted to turn on you I would have wiped you out before you even arrived."

the Mandalorian appeared out of the darkness, having hid himself both from normal sight and sound, while hiding his sensitivity as best he could, stepping out of a darkened corner.

"you have friends, why are they not here with you, if I were a space wizard, I would travel in packs, no?"

his helmet was on once more, hiding the young man underneath it like a sinister mask, the Mandalorian had his hands behind his back, his voice monotone due to its modulator.

"you know, its rude to refuse a hand shake, but ill forgive it, what's your real game here, jedi, here to disrupt peace with your plotting, like you usually do?.."

he kept pace with her, hopping and skipping around like he was having quite the pleasant conversation, dispite the thinly veiled cat and mouse feeling he emanated, like a krayt sand dragon circling its prey, waiting for it to tire in the sun before consuming them.

@KaraLi

 

[Caeli Veridia]

"Friar,"Caeli said, inclining her head with a warm smile gracing her lips. "Your time is more valuable than the rarest gems in the galaxy. I'm grateful for your insight and for entertaining our hope for peace." There was a sincere luster in her eyes as she spoke, gratitude etched in every syllable, every slight gesture.

Stepping back, she turned toward her Jedi companions, her amiable demeanor shifted to something more analytical. "Our discourse was fruitful," she started, her voice carrying an undertone of optimism, her serene eyes flickering with resolve. "The Friar did not reject the idea of a second peace summit outright. There's a glimmer of hope; it just needs to be nurtured. We must stay patient and keep working to build trust."

"Take care, Rair," she advised, her voice imbued with warmth and genuine concern. Her heart thrummed in her chest as she moved away, the familiar sense of loss, that pinch of loneliness, creeping in. But she knew it was for the best, they each had their paths to tread.

As she stepped out into the thrumming streets of Prospera City, she was immediately engulfed by the urban cityscape. Skyscrapers pierced the cerulean sky, casting long shadows over the bustling streets below. Neon signs flashed, the air buzzing with the cacophony of traffic, chattering citizens, and the far-off hum of machinery.

Walking amidst the citizens, Caeli, dressed in her Padawan robes, offered friendly smiles and words of greeting. She exchanged pleasantries about the weather with a burly vendor, shared a laugh with a group of giggling children chasing each other, asked a mechanic about his day.

Caeli knew that every conversation, every smile, every act of kindness could help mend the rips in the fabric of their shared reality. She hoped that one day, her efforts would bring about peace, not just for Prospera City, but for the entire galaxy.

@KaraLi

 

[The Storyteller]

M A R C E L L U S _ M O N T A G U E

Listening to the Jedi and his fellow compatriot, Marcellus Montague's mind swam in a sea of thoughts. His face was a placid lake, reflecting little of the turmoil beneath. "Ambassador Tillisk, your musings hold a certain validity. The ceaseless cycle of desire and resentment has brought us to this precipice." His voice was measured, cordial, but within it carried the echo of centuries-old family feud and weariness.

As Adora spoke, Marcellus felt a surge of admiration for her fierce conviction, her unyielding dedication to peace. A yearning bloomed within him, a quiet longing that mirrored the desperate need for unity. He offered her a sincere nod, appreciating her courage and empathy.

"Adora," Marcellus began, his tone softening. "Your offer is remarkably generous, and your insight, as always, profound. Our past skirmishes, indeed, seem meaningless in the face of such catastrophic consequences." His words hung in the air like the faint scent of the exotic blooms that filled the room, a tangible reminder of the fragility of peace.

As his gaze fell upon the ornate architecture of the chamber, the kaleidoscope of lights from the distant stars casting iridescent shadows, Marcellus felt a pang of yearning. His mind wandered back to that moment, at the failed peace summit, where he had locked eyes with the King's heiress. A fleeting memory, but it lingered like a soft echo, imbuing his heart with the potent mixture of hope and despair.

"But there is another motivation," Marcellus confessed, his voice barely above a whisper, "an aspiration as intimate as it is profound. I long for a reunion, a bond unbroken by the bitter tides of war. A communion of souls amidst the deafening clamor for vengeance." His fingers grazed over the holoimage of the King's heiress, the ethereal glow making his heart clench.

"But enough of my hopeless romanticism," he said, a weak chuckle slipping past his lips. "The proposition of a shared administration seems promising. A beacon of unity, as you so eloquently put it, Adora. Perhaps a neutral mediator to represent the people's interests could indeed be the key to long-lasting peace. But who could act as that mediator? Perhaps you both could venture to find someone adequate."

Even as he said those words, Marcellus knew that it would not be easy. The road to peace was arduous and filled with sacrifice. Yet the prospect of a peaceful future, where he could perhaps meet the King's heiress once again, offered a glimmer of hope in the heart of the passive, goodhearted heir.

@Skippypls @Stump

__F R I A R _ L A W R E N C E

Friar Lawrence watched Ja'Rek approach, his steely eyes peering at him over the crest of his folded hands. The faint glow of the chandelier above illuminated the aged lines of his face, casting shadows of intrigue that only enhanced the aura of wisdom that shrouded him. The murmurs of the boy at the corner did not escape his keen ears, his every step on the stone floor resonating with the steady heartbeat of the church.

The insinuation hanging in Ja'Rek's words drew a veiled smile on Lawrence's lips, his eyes twinkling with the shadows of unsaid secrets. This young man was astute, his understanding of the complex political machinery impressive. Yet, the friar treaded cautiously, his words precisely chosen, a delicate ballet of diplomatic maneuvering.

"Indeed, Master Ja'Rek," the friar began, his voice a gentle murmur that harmonized with the sacred whispers of the church. "The discord is a persistent thorn in the heart of Verona. A thorn that has festered for far too long." His gaze flickered to the stained glass painting, a picturesque representation of divine intervention, the vibrant hues dancing in the soft light.

"Change, however," he continued, "is a capricious mistress. It demands patience and careful orchestration. Unseen hands that shape the course of destiny... an intriguing conjecture." His words were elusive, dancing just at the edge of admission.

As Ja'Rek offered his support, Lawrence met his eyes, his gaze steady. "Your aid, Master Ja'Rek, is valuable. A generous proposal, indeed. Let not gold be your sole guide, but the betterment of Verona, a city that yearns for the tranquillity of unity."

Rising from his chair, Lawrence moved closer, his voice barely a whisper. "Seek out the root of the feud, Ja'Rek. Unearth the true cause that has festered this malady between the houses of Capulet and Montague. There, you shall find your path, and perhaps, a glimpse into the future of Verona."

With a nod, he sent Ja'Rek off, his mind whirling with the potential that this quest held. As the young man left, Lawrence watched him, his heart alight with the flames of hope and ambition.

@BlueGreen

 

[Rair]

Tonight the wall is coming down​

I am stronger than my fears

This is the mountain that I climb​

​

----------------------------------------​

​

It wasn't noise that gave the man away, nor could Rair see him. Not in the traditional sense. It was his aura, though. A deep 'red' malevolence he cloaked himself in that she spotted. Sensed. Felt. The word didn't matter, really, just like she couldn't say it was truly red because she hadn't ever seen red. It just felt like red to her. She kept her conversation going, though, not willing to give up her knowledge to hide information that, truthfully, didn't need to be that secret.

The most he would find out is harming her meant alerting the others.

Hardly bad information to share.

Doing her best to give a little start at his words, she turned to face him. She didn't need to pretend at acting nervous, truth was his proximity made that emotion plenty real.

"Perhaps," she said with a soft tremble in her voice, her only response to the veiled threat. "But no, we don't travel in packs. Far too many people need help for us to do that often." Tucking her hands into her sleeves, she began to walk, allowing the weight of her robes to provide some comfort, while also slipping her comm away.

"My apologies if I offended you, Malric Fenn. I am blind, after all." She offered him a small shrug as if that explained everything and continued on her path towards the shuttle, letting the rhythm of her feet on the ground soothe her nerves. "Now, perhaps you need some education, though. Twice now I've corrected you. We aren't here for money, so we're not hired, and I don't lie to or manipulate the people I'm trying to help. Still you accuse me of plotting, when I've been entirely honest with King Theseus. We're here to help. We're here for peace. If the station is what he claims, then we would be happy to see it completed, and we will work with him to soothe the worries of the Montagues. If it is, as the Montagues fear, a weapon, then we'll figure out why King Theseus doesn't know that, because I believe he thinks it isn't."

A soft smile turned up the edges of her lips as she walked, her pace even and form relaxed now. Simple rituals, but each one brought her calm and now not even the man's manic energy was enough to shatter it. At least not yet.

BEEP.

----------------------------------------
Got 100 steps to go

Tonight I'll make it 99​

@theaveragejedishadow

 

[ikaran]

Ikaran seeing the conversation had concluded snuck off, he met with Ja’Rek getting his attention. “Hey sorry to disturb you but I really care for the situation. The people’s well-being matters to me, it matters to all of us in the church. Can you please tell me, what is your plan to help this planet?”

Ikaran, satisfied with his manipulative speech. That this mandolorian would tell him his standing and of the sith. Needed to worry not just about the Jedi. Ikaran waited like a lost puppy waiting for an answer.

@BlueGreen

 

[Cremek "Krayt" Candorus]

"Oh you don't fool me jedi, you managed here alone, without assistance, looked directly at the king without him even speaking once, you have SOME form of vision."

"Let me share you and your friends some advice, from a well travelled mercenary, no?"

if his overhearing was correct, yes he was being recorded, no he didn't care, he wanted them to know that they were outmatched here, out of their depth, and "being circled by a krayt sand dragon"

He removes his helmet once more, giving that same, warm, haunting, yet smug, smile.

"oh, I am quite educated about jedi, you say your oh so noble, but ive seen both jedi at their worst, and at their best.. at the end of the day you act like animals when your lives are on the line and the light of day is burning you out of your holes."

he leaned in, like he was about to tell her one hell of a secret, covering his mouth so no one else could hear it.

"Take a hint, sometimes the best thing to do, is to walk away."

he pulled back, flashing a warm smile, before placing his helmet back down, the dour, silent, sentinel like attributes returning like a dark cloud at night.

"After all, the galaxy is in a state of survival of the fittest, and Im afraid the jedi havent changed at all, ogir's ratiin pride before a rohakar: there's always pride before a defeat."

@KaraLi

 

[Rair]

Tonight the wall is coming down​

I am stronger than my fears

This is the mountain that I climb​

​

----------------------------------------​

​

Rair didn't bother to clarify what 'sort' of vision she had. Most wouldn't understand it anyways, though she suspected he could, given enough time. No, she just didn't feel like sharing further information.

"I'll take your advice under consideration," she said, as they neared the shuttle, a placid smile still painted across her visage. "Some from me? Learn to listen to what is said and not to what you wish to hear. I never claimed nobility, I simply told you the truth. If you attach such generous character to my honest actions... well, I'm humbled by your praise."

She had no eyes to wink, and cloth covered her sightless sockets, but there was no hiding the teasing lilt in her voice as she boarded the shuttle.

"Now, shall we go find some peace for Verona?"

BEEP.

----------------------------------------
Got 100 steps to go

Tonight I'll make it 99​

@theaveragejedishadow | @Javier esschoolbus

 

[Cremek "Krayt" Candorus]

"well, I'm glad we have an understanding then, madame Rair, shall we continue?"

He followed suit, taking a small seat.

"but it is truly in your best interests to heed my words, all of you."


"by the gods, is she a fool? No, she has a death wish, clearly, Ill happily oblige!"
"now now, cremek, I think she's just unaware of the hot water shes in, give her time, im sure she'll come to her senses and run.."
"maybe..."

he audibly sighs.

@KaraLi @Javier esschoolbus

 

[Ja'Rek]

Ja’Rek looked the boy up and down, “You want to help, talk to the Friar, not me.” With that Ja’Rek walked out of the monastery and in to the secluded gardens, he stood for a moment under ancient tree, wondering how long it had stood on these grounds, what had happened around it and what will come…

He sat on one of the high-speed maglev trains on it’s way to Capulet Castle. As he looked out of the window at the impressive landscape, he overheard a elderly woman talking to what he assumed was her son. They were discussing the blockade and the recent stand off between the two families, they were both suffering from the events, food prices has soared, curfews had been introduced in local regions and now the old woman had lost her home.

This planet was basically a neighbour to his people, his resolve hardened at the thought of removing the current administration, he had to do this for the people, and they had to do this without the interference of outside focuses such as the Jedi and Sith.

The train pulled into the station, he then made is way to Capulet Castle, outside the guards stopped him asking who is was and what is wanted, Ja’Rek responded with “My name is Ja’Rek of House Talon, as a Mandalorian I have answered the call of your King to provide security for the station, I request an audience with him”.

The guards allowed him through, with one of there number escorting Ja’Rek to the great hall, he was sickened to see the opulence when the people were suffering so, despite his disgust in the King, Ja’Rek wanted to get on the inside, he stood in his bronze and blue armour and spoke “Great King, you requested security for your grand project, My name is Ja’Rek of House Talon, I'm Mandalorian and I am here to provide my support, for a cost of course, half now, and half when the station is operational.” Ja’Rek had no intention of getting the whole payment, but it would make him very happy to take some credits from the tyrant “I will need to visit the facility and review the current security there, I am sure you people are highly trained but if you are requesting professionals, I would like to double check myself”

@Aberforth