Open The Cycle Repeats

[Izel Thral]

Much like her apprentice Izel remained silent. As Kori approached the Vratix raised her gaze just a moment to meet her eyes, before looking down again. There were things she wanted to say. At the very least she wanted to reassure her there was no need to feel any kind of guilt over her current state. In Izel's mind it was something necessary, something she had to work through and figure out. Her mandibles moved idly as she stared at the ground, trying to piece together something, anything to say. But Master Zapan beat her to the punch.

She turned her eyes up on the councilor as he spoke, quietly soaking in everything he had to say. She had always had a great respect for Oren, and only wished now she had learned more from his teachings, and Max's as well. She looked toward Hannibal and gave a small nod in congratulations for his promotion. He was a good choice, a powerful Jedi who's insight would no doubt be sorely needed in the near future. What came next wasn't entirely surprising, but it still stung.

"With his promotion comes the termination of the Jedi Guardian program, Master Tallis and those who wish to focus their efforts in defeating the Sith through combat will report to Master Grayza; starting immediately."

Izel's first instinct was to look back at Kori. She could already tell she didn't like to hear that. Perhaps the responsibility had weighed on her, but the initiative was still something she put great effort into. No doubt being dissolved so flippantly would hurt. Not to mention the humiliation of being called out in such a way in front of everyone. Again she made the motions of trying to speak, but there were no words.

With a miserable sigh she turned her gaze downwards once more, raising a hand to rub idly at her head. Perhaps the worst part was that she agreed with the decision. As much as she wanted to defend her friend, she knew that direct Council oversight would be best for the future of the program. And whether that future was going to include her... She still wasn't sure.

 

[Lilith Vye]

She didn't want to be here. It felt wrong. It felt like she was violating the Jedi's memorial. She wasn't Jedi and she still struggled to keep herself in check even after training under Oren. In fact, she wouldn't have been here if it hadn't been by his request.

By the time she was walking towards the memorial it had already started and she was thankful. She was doing her best to smother her presence, to keep the hood of her gray cloak pulled over her head.

She was going to keep her distance, but then she spotted Talak and what she sensed from him smacked the color out of her face. It felt like it melted away all those months of training under Oren. All those months gone.. in one fleeting moment.

Lilith grabbed the hilt from her belt, uncaring of any consequence that might result from it. She kept walking, coming up behind Talak as she spoke, "You said you found peace" she hissed, anger and frustration dripping from her words. She was trying to reframe from screaming and drawing attention, but she was on the verge of drawing from the darkness once more. "You said the Dark Side was the wrong path, yet here you are reeking of it!"

@Phoenix

 

[Talak Rand]

Talak saw the message from Max and caught the hint of attention from Hannibal. Apart from that, he was thankful that he had captured relatively little of the attention of the meeting.

He listened to one of the Jedi speaking about building up their own power base, preparing for a war. "Aggressive defense." It was a concept that Talak very much agreed with and had even tried to figure out how to implement an intergalactic militia without success. Time had simply interfered. At least someone was likeminded, though who knew how many other Jedi would feel the same.

And of all the things he hadn't expected, he hadn't expected to see Lilith here. What was she doing here? This was a conversation (fight?) that he simply didn't have the time or patience for right now. The fact that she marched up, lightsaber practically drawn didn't improve his mood either.

At least she had the good sense not to make a complete scene. He was in the exit doorway and she'd come up behind him, so to say they were even in the room was potentially an overstatement.

Put that thing away, he said, unamused. If she was going to stab him, then today it might have been a blessing.

You have no idea what you're talking about, and this is not the time, he said. He wasn't going to argue with her during the meeting, but it seemed he had another person to add to the list of after-session arguments.

Stab me or wait until after the meeting, he said flatly. His voice was distant, cold and even less rooted than when he'd been a Sith.

@Nefieslab @Mr. Teatime @Dread

 

[Dalaa Ta]

Dalaa Ta

Dalaa was listening in on the speech about an 'Aggressive defence'. But another matter caught his montrals and ears. He looked over at the door way having sensed the two people there. A woman was arguing with a Jedi Knight she had drawn her lightsaber. How rude, at a time of memorial and memory like this? She should be ashamed of herself to disrespect this time of grieving. Dalaa slowly made his way over to the tow. Shuffling in-between Jedi who seemingly never noticed. Eventually, the unarmed Togrutan reached and stepped in-between the woman and man. "Put your lightsaber away. How impertinent, this is a time of grieving and respect for the Jedi and you wish to tarnish it with an argument?" Dalaa talked quitly, it was obvious in his voice that he was disappointed in the woman who stood before him. His hands were placed together behind his back, their natural position. He hadn't brought his lightsaber with him and was expecting the woman to back off and show some respect. "Please, show some respect to those who lost their lives on Ajan Kloss and Sullust. Many younglings and padawans have seen some terrible things, things which no one should see. I suggest, you take this matter outside or wait for the service to end. If you wish to show your respect then remain and put your lightsaber away. This is not a day to be flaunting something which can be used for such destruction". Dalaa had left his lightsabers in his qaurters for that very reason. The lightsaber, used to kill, injure and harm his brothers and sisters in the order. It was no time nor place to be wielding such a thing, especially when trying to argue with someone at this time.

@Phoenix @Dread ​

 

[Nykoria Tallis]

Kori sensed Izel's reaction to the news. Maybe even to a greater extent than her insectoid friend was letting on. After all, the years of risking life and limb together had to count for something. The Zeltron and the Vratix had established a bond, not unlike those that forms between family members, or Masters and Padawans. It was enough for Nykoria to simply raise a palm slightly from her waist level as Izel attempted to speak. This would have to wait until a better time. The Zeltron couldn't blame her friend, even if Izel was no longer supportive of some of their past decisions.

Then a Knight—or so Nykoria assumed, for she knew most of the Masters—stepped forward. The stranger didn't seem as devastated by the loss of Ajan Kloss as many other Jedi—Kori included, because she couldn't but share in their emotions. Yet what he said next... Nykoria couldn't but smirk, as much as it was possible with a lump in her throat. All of that had all already happened: a tragedy leaving its mark on the Order; a call to action; Knights and even some Masters pledging support; an eventual blessing from a Councillor (Hannibal would back him up, no doubt). An interesting cycle indeed.

She had to give the stranger his due—he had a better way with words and plans than Nykoria all the years ago. To think of it, her own plans were not too different from what was being voiced. Maybe, if the guy's money was where his mouth was, he'd succeed where Nykoria had failed. Otherwise, it could go down the same path: Hannibal saying "Yes", Max—who'd undoubtedly be on the Council—saying "No" was easy enough to predict. Jedi would rally behind "the man with a plan".

But in the end? The first major kark-up, and you end up a scapegoat. A symbol of all the mistakes, regardless of whether or not they were yours. Nykoria qualified what Oren had said as exactly that. And she did see a lot of her past self in the Knight. So it's no wonder that Kori found herself in Hannibal's shoes: a Master eager to voice her support for a Knight's suggestion. But for the moment, she remained silent and only gave a nod—if not to the specifics of the Knight's plan, but more of an encouragement.

Then the Zeltron's attention was drawn to the commotion at the entrance, not too far from her. It wasn't her place to interfere; not yet anyway. She simply turned her head and looked at the situation as it unfolded.

@Reyn, @Orbit

 

[Oren Zapan]

Oren lowered his head to the other councilors as the meeting seemed to be drawing to a close. There was still a gap in the Jedi, a lingering feeling of doubt among the room -- Oren was sure his words caused some to feel such a way. He had faced similar trials and challenges during his life, after Saul's injuries and the initial failure to find Wyck's holocron.

The deaths of Saul and Nashyr on Coruscant still weighed on him after all these years. No Jedi was perfect, that was not what the Jedi aimed to be. The goal was to do something right, what they had felt was right. Each Jedi here had been doing exactly that, there was no shame in it, nor did he hold contempt for them sticking to their ideals.

Oren would step away from the assembly leaning into Han's side, whispering softly. "Elias has great potential, so does each and everyone of you that fought on Sullust. I believe you all can find the answers we need, we've seen the foundation of resistance laid out before us today." His hand would pull away from the recovering master. There was still another Master that he needed to speak with.

His eyes drifted to the Zeltron, one he had only interacted with a few times. He could feel her mulling over his words, a cyclone in the force seemed to ripple which caused the Jedi Master to frown. It's not like I helped her much, perhaps I was too harsh. The Jedi Master would stop before her, giving her a gentle bow.

He would place his lone flesh hand on her shoulder, in which a tingling warmness would radiate from the fingers. "Your thoughts dwell on my words," he'd say with a gentle smile, "Do know that I do not mean them against you. You have done much for the Order, and I do believe that Hans will work with you." He'd turn to look back to the Council, before turning to look to her.

"If you feel as if I had singled you out, do know I did not mean to. You mean much to the Order and those you interact with, I can see the day when you will join that Council. Continue to grow Master Tallis, whatever doubts you have -- the fear you witnessed on Sullust. I am here if you need to speak. Until then, you should meet Elias, he and I worked on Ruusan together. His ideals fall in line with your own."

The Jedi Master's hand would pull away and he would give the aging Zeltron one last glance, taking in her scars. "There is emotion, yet one can find peace. May the force be with you Master Tallis."

Now was the time for the real pain of it all -- Lilith. He could feel the storm of emotions charging through the halls and of course, and like a magnet was pulled towards Talak. The sight wasn't good, a lightsaber drawn, he understood the history of it all, but that was no excuse. You've come so far, yet you still have so much to learn.

Oren would reach out with the force in an attempt to pull the lightsaber from Lilith's hands, giving her that look she had grown so accustomed to seeing. "Finding the light is no easy task," Oren would say in a dry tone to the young woman. "Talak is finding it, just as you."

He'd turn to Knight Ta with an apologetic look, "You'll have to forgive her, there's more history here than I can get into. But, she will be leaving..Or she can stay and listen to what others have to say."

tag: @Dread @Catbert @Phoenix @Mr. Teatime

 

[Vinry Forge]

Vinry had spent the past few days helping around the Temple, having arrived with the evacuation fleet that had escaped Ajan Kloss. She had experienced the pain of what had happened there first hand, and though she had escaped Ajan Kloss physically unscathed, on the inside there were wounds that needed to heal.

For years she had stayed away from the Jedi, acting on her own, trying to serve the Force in her own way. She had, and for the most part she still did, held the belief that every Jedi was supposed to follow their own light. Be a beacon unto themselves for the darkness that threatened to consume the Galaxy every single day. But she had seen the consequences of Jedi acting alone. When their lights combined in a discordant mess instead of a resonant harmony. Complete autonomy, for all its benefits, had made a pitfall that could be avoided by a guiding hand. She had seen them as extremes, but there had to be a reasonable middle ground that could guide her, and the Jedi, going forward.

She did not expect to find that middle ground today, it would probably take her years to find it. But she could start walking down that path, actually be here and work with the Order instead of vanishing and doing as she willed in the far reaches where the Council could not influence her.

"A few days ago I would not have agreed with you," she said to Elias as she stepped forward from behind a group of padawans to face the Knight who spoken up earlier, "what use do we have for ships and armies. But is it not our duty to save our own as well? The Sith are amassing an army, and if we are to protect others we must also protect ourselves. But it is a thin line, one I believe you don't mean to cross either." She had flown with him not too long ago, and you learned a lot about a man with the way they fought. "If we are to do this, to build up our strength, it should be to protect and not to destroy. We do this to preserve life, not to seek out the Sith and attack them head-on. Otherwise how are we any different from them?"

She glanced around at the gathering, addressing them all now. No matter what choices were made here, they had to be made for the right reasons.

@Orbit

 

[Hannibal Grayza]

Hannibal responded only with a small nod to Oren's words in his ear, silent agreement. He agreed with what Elias and Vinry were saying of course, he always had to some degree, details aside. The problem had never been the concept, but the execution and organization. The Jedi were a varied and versatile order and they would need to leverage all of it to do what needed to be done. A collection of warriors, scholars, archaeologists, diplomats, mechanics, and others grouped together from a variety of backgrounds with no direction was little threat. But, with the right usage...

Well, detailed planning could come later. Hannibal had Council things to do at this moment, regardless of his personal preference to sit in his room and recover. In hindsight, maybe not the best day to wear a simple and pants. Oh well.

He nodded to Max as he moved to leave then steadily stood from his chair, only not borrowing Indy's shoulder because his ribs would kill him if he tried to lift his right arm that high. He walked from the outskirts to the center of the assembly area, a brief flicker of the Force moving one of the more comfortable Council chairs to where Oren had previously been standing. He was stubborn but he wasn't also stupid enough to stand there the entire time in the state he was in, painkillers or not.

The newest Jedi Councilor got himself comfortable in the chair, doing his best to find the optimum angle that caused the least discomfort. With only limited success, but whatever. Oren was still around and talking to Talak and Lilith for the moment, something Hannibal should also get to later, but for now there were other things to discuss that directly fell under his shiny new supervision.

"I agree, Elias. The fact of the matter is that the Jedi Order has limited weight in the Free Worlds. Some of us are more well known in certain areas for things we've done, but the Order as a whole has little visibility or leverage. And I don't just means guns and ships. This," He waved his left hand vaguely at the surrounding stone that made up the assembly area. "Is a pile of rocks. The Jedi Order has a pile of rocks and a few ships. We need material and launching points for aid and rapid response. We need a reputation that marks the Order as helpful and the trust, or at least tolerance, of Free Worlds governments and peoples. We probably need support staff, the direct support of non-Jedi. Y'know, nothing too complicated."

He leaned back in his chair, sinking into the cushions. Talking this much was going to wear him out, he was sure of it.

"There will also be a memorial for the lost if I have to arrange it myself. The peaceful dead should be mourned and remembered. But, for now, I would like suggestions and plans for the Order. Specific ones. I will also be opening my," he sighed softly, rubbing his temples. "My office, to discuss the future of the Order. If we play to our individual strengths together, I think the Order will do better as a whole."

@Orbit @TWD26 @Wit @Catbert @Reyn @Everyone idk

 

[Drastus Drahr]

Like always, Drastus Drahr was late. It was probably best. The young man was angry and full of grief. He'd enter near the end of the speech, a slight flicker of anger at the shut down of the Guardians. Where his Master, was a woman full of love and compassion, he was not. He preferred action to peace. He had pleaded with her to join the Guardians and when she didn't, he was so angry. And despite his harsh words, she was gentle, resolute, motherly. He found his eyes wet at the thought of her and quickly wiped it away. And in the end? She was fierce. Despite being overrun, she held her ground, even though it meant her death.

Following the departure of the Councilors and various other Masters, he'd weave his way through the masses trying to find anyone looking for a fight. He needed to go on the offensive. To get vengeance. And unlike those around him, he was unable to conceal it. His hate, at himself, the Sith, at life. He had wished he died at her side, saber in hand. But here he was. He ran like she commanded him to. And now, he was lost. He was nothing more than a loaded gun and he just needed a target.

 

[Indy Sati]

When Hans touched her hand as well, feeling him even accept the moment, a small tear slipped free. At first, she hadn't heard the promotion, so lost in her thoughts was she. It was only in the sound of multiple voices that she looked up, some of the speakers giving her pause.

She nodded once at Elias. @Orbit The knight and she had been through a temple lately, the event one she wouldn't forget anytime soon. If the man looked at her, she nodded back. A few others, and then Councilor Zapan spoke, and Hans moved. She glanced over to Kori, and felt an ounce of sympathy. The woman was merely doing what she thought best at the time... though Indyana was never fully apprised of what happened, it was Izel's body language that told her much.

Silent as a shadow, she slipped over, and lightly nudged the Vratix, giving her a faint smile. Sure, there were things all of them could have done better... but she wasn't going to dwell on them. She was merely here to support those she loved, and all within these walls were compassionately loved as her own. Thus was the way of the Jedi, to love selflessly, was it not? Without attachment, perhaps... but with the hope to make things better.

The sound of lowered voices made her glance discreetly at seeing the Jedi Master Oren leave, and Max as well. Disappointment flared in her chest before she tamped it down, but surely Max had his own reasons for leaving. Talak was there as well, in the periphery, with a stranger... none of her business.

She needed to talk to Talak as it was eventually anyways.

She glanced back to Hannibal as he began talking again, and once more came closer to the side of the Council member, golden eyes calm.

Seemed like everyone was doing speeches, but if holo records were anything to go by, this was not uncommon.

"We need to learn from the past," she finally spoke up. Her heart was pounding hard in her chest, and her hands shook slightly, but her voice held firm. "Not even our immediate past. This is not the first time the Jedi have felt an assault to their core, and survived. We are not bent. We are not broken. We have lost a home, but now we have an opportunity to move forward, the memories of those we loved and mourn as fuel for the fire that drives us. Not revenge," her hand clasped over her chest, "but as a remembrance. We must work together despite our differences," she reiterated Hans, giving him a slight smile before glancing at the rest of the Order.

"But we will not fall. We are Jedi. We are not the first, and not the last. And we will do what we can in memory. This is the future and the way. I will help where I can."

With that, she stepped back, clearing her throat subtly. She wasn't one for grand speeches, but...

Something caught her periphery. Someone so full of anger, of hatred, even standing there felt Dark. Another padawan.

She made sure to step quietly and allow others their chance to speak, stepping over to @Rhogar .

"Hello."

Her voice was soft, golden eyes assessing, before she raised a hand to beckon.

"Shall we talk?"

@Rhogar @Nefieslab @TWD26 @Mr. Teatime

 

[Drastus Drahr]

Drast was on the march, having seen and heard Hans, he knew he was heading to the right place. In his mind, he was a fountain of calm. He was a sheet of cool. Nobody could tell how hurt he was, how angry. Oh yeah, he was about to get deployed into Operation: KillSithi Freedom. There was almost the start of a grin as he thought to himself.

Don't worry, Master, I'll avenge you. I'll avenge all the fallen.

And then suddenly that fire, that anger was almost diffused by a single, gentle voice. He was so in his head, he thought it was the voice of his old Master. When he looked, the sudden joy on his face would dissipate at the realization it was another. "Oh. Forgive me, Master." He tried so hard in that moment to remember which one it was. Blue. Violet. Was she Chiss? No. He racked his brain for the answer. Pantoran. She was Pantoran. But the name was not coming as easily. Now he just had to play it cool.

Dressed in his urban attire, he wore dark jeans, a black button up shirt with the top three buttons undone, showing some of the tattoos on his chest. Vibrant purple vest over the shirt, with the shirt sleeves rolled up to the forearms. He just looked out of place.

Manners. Respect. You're not that gutter rat anymore, are you? He heard his old Masters voice echo in his head.

His stance straightened a bit. "Of course, Master. At your will." He'd say politely.

 

[Nykoria Tallis]

Oren might not have known it yet, but he was dealing with a Zeltron time bomb. If not addressed, Kori would've mulled over the Councillor's words from her own angle and her angle alone—however misguided her perception was. Guilt, pain, and disappointment in the Council's treatment of the Guardians would have built up and festered, finding its release in one way or another. Nykoria wouldn't have come to the Councillor first; not after what she thought he had said. The results would've been anybody's guess.

But somehow, Oren did sense it. He approached the troubled Jedi, and this time he was... well, "Oren" about it. A pat on the shoulder and a few kind and genuine words were enough to soothe Kori's pain. The brewing storm inside her soul calmed down; the clouds of doubt and regret weren't gone, but healing from Sullust and Ajan Kloss would take time, and the seed was planted. What happened next was up to the Force.

But for now, the Zeltron was just grateful for support. She raised her eyes to meet Oren's. The disappointment was gone, but sorrow—her own, and that of all the Jedi assembled—was still evident in her gaze. Being a Zeltron and experiencing other people's emotions was sometimes a blessing, but for the moment it was a curse. On the verge of tears, and despite a lump in her throat, she managed to nod faintly and whisper: "Thank you, Master."

That was all that she'd have to say to Oren. His attention was needed elsewhere, and Nykoria was supposed to be a master, capable of sorting out her poodoo herself. But the gesture was appreciated, and it did help.

...​

Meanwhile, Master Sati gave an uplifting speech, and two more Jedi—Hannibal among them—seemed to agree with what that Elias person had to say. She had paid some attention, and the years had left her blessed with some experience on the matter. When all was said, Nykoria finally found it in her to step forward.

"I know..." she cut herself short, realizing her voice was still cracked from the tears that she hadn't let out; the Zeltron had to clear throat before sounding at least somewhat normal. "I know I should be the last person to say something right now. But I agree with Elias too. The Sith wield the power of the planets they seize. And the Jedi just live and train on one world, relying on it's secrecy. That..." she paused briefly, before finally making her point. "... That didn't work out."

"By the time the Sith find out about Yavin—and they will, make no mistake..." she continued, looking over the rest of the Jedi who had spoken so far. Kori might've been too preoccupied and missed their point, but those were just her thoughts. "They might bring a whole fleet here. And we wouldn't have our own. Because fleets take people, money, resources, shipyards, entire planets backing them up... Something the Jedi Order just doesn't have. And won't have, because that's not what the Jedi are about." The plans that the Jedi before her had voiced did encourage the Zeltron to strive for better planning, but she had to be realistic and mindful of the past mistakes.

"We could either give up on Yavin, spread the Order across the galaxy, and become invincible to a fleet or a coordinated attack..." Nykoria paused, letting that thought sink in. "Or we could rely on secrecy for now, and go to someone who already has all those resources that could help the Order. Like the Free Worlds Alliance. Maybe even establish an open presence there, to draw the Sith eyes away from Yavin. It's all preliminary, but still worth thinking over."

After a moment of thought, the Zeltron added: "I have some connections on Corsin and Fondor, and even more on Coruscant. I intended to go there anyway, but perhaps I could arrange a place there for us." She looked at the Jedi surrounding her, but this time her eyes stopped at Hans and Oren, as the Zeltron quickly corrected herself: "... With your permission, of course." The times where Kori could just do things were obviously gone. But for the moment, it didn't bother the Zeltron as much as the future of the Order. The future that her past mistakes had almost helped destroy.

@TWD26, @Mr. Teatime, @Orbit, @Wit

 

[Vinry Forge]

As others chimed in, Vinry tried to take note of not just what was being said but who was saying it. A vast majority of those gathering here were complete unknowns to her. Talak, and to a lesser degree Oren and Elias, were the only ones she really knew here. So as they spoke she tried to get a reading on who they were, it was time she knew more of her brothers and sisters. Though given how everyone was still reeling from recent events, she wasn't sure how accurate of a read she would get on them. What they said and how they acted today might not be the best example for her to form opinions.

For the most part she found the discussions agreeable, things were being said that she agreed with. It was only when the Zeltron Jedi spoke up that she felt the need to chime in, and even then not out of disagree but rather a sense of caution.

"I agree with what you say Master," she said with a nod towards the newly appointed Council member, before turning to the Zeltron, "which is why I would suggest caution with forming ties that bind us too strongly with any government. It was the nature of the Jedi's relationship with the Republic that allowed Palpatine to bring about their demise, we must avoid the same fate." She paused for a second to pick the right words to explain what was going through her head before continuing, now addressing no one in particular. "I agree that we cannot face the Sith alone, but do we not risk bringing greater retribution on the Free Worlds if the Sith see them as our allies? At the same time would be not be restricting ourselves by binding ourselves to the whims of politicians?"

She turned back to face the Zeltron before ending. "You obviously seem to have a better grip on how the Alliance worlds operate, and I do not ask to outright reject your proposal to ally with them. But I fear that to join them would place not just us, but them at risk. We must be cautious, lest the past repeat itself."

@Orbit @Mr. Teatime @Catbert

 

[Elias Ryn]

Elias listened to everyone who spoke as each one would get his full attention when it was their turn. As more and more joined in, he was pleasantly surprised at how many people agreed with him vocally and how they shared his expectations, at least with a little temperament. Elias offered a nod to both Vinry when she spoke and to Sati when she acknowledged his presence too. But what also surprised me was when one of the Jedi Masters, Max, left without pretty much saying a word. Master Oren seemed to be making his leave as well and his eyes just continually passed between the two.

All of the Jedi should be there and participating. One of the heaviest blows have been dealt with them in recent memory and he hoped the reasons the two were leaving for were good ones that would actually help the Order. A small part of Elias was ignited but he quickly snuffed it out as it wasn't the time. What was the point in being there if the others above them wouldn't listen?

Thankfully, @Hannibal Grayza spoke and offered some semblance of a plan for the others to wrap their head around. That was something he could work with. Even from the little he said, Elias realized he would fill in the position well and that Hannibal was a good choice to help lead combat missions against the Sith. They had met before and had fought together but his respect for the new Jedi councilor grew.

One of the Masters he wasn't familiar with, @Nykoria Tallis, spoke up as well and Elias half agreed with the points she made. Vinry pointed out what happened in the past when they aligned with the government. It turned out with the creation of the Empire and something all of them hoped to avoid once more. After Vinry, Elias spoke up again as he stepped forward, "We cannot abandon Yavin. This is one of our last homes and still presumably, unknown to them. If we leave now, then we have practically given it up out of fear they will attack once more. Easy victories such as that should not be given without them even lifting a finger." Even if all the other Jedi abandoned Yavin, he would stay and find some use for it so that it wouldn't completely be forgotten. Fear would not be the deciding factor for what he should do.

Elias then brought his attention to @Vinry Forge , "The FWA is already at risk. The entire galaxy is already at risk by the Sith. There is risk in everything but sometimes we just have to accept it and keep moving forward. They will pick us off and make us keep digging a hole and then turn on the FWA when were finished." Hannibal asked for specifics and he was going to give them. "We should correspond with the FWA in letting us speak to the government of Maanan and use their kolto production to help fund relief missions to the war-torn planets or those still recovering. Gyndine and Kessel are good targets as well. The mines on Kessel can help us provide the resources we need to actually build defenses and ships; Gyndine the shipyard and a fortress world to construct those ships and keep the planet secure." It was the very basis of what he had planned and was open for suggestions or counters. It's why they had this meeting, to form a plan they all could get behind.

Elias was about to step back and let another speak but stopped himself halfway before stepping forward once again. It was a small thing that stood in the back of his mind but he had to speak on it. He glanced around all the Jedi that surrounded him. "For those who showed themselves on Sullust and fought, you have my respect for what you went through." Elias had been a padawan but he still hadn't been there to assist them. "I disagree with the Councilors to disassemble the Guardians. They showed courage when others didn't. That's what we all could use. They should be rewarded for such an endeavor, not disbanded because of it." With that, he finally stepped back and stood side by side with Vinry.

@Everyone

 

[Oren Zapan]

Oren had not been out of earshot, he was there listening. It seemed for now that Lilith had gotten the message or had stormed off. Regardless, he would handle that later. For now he would let the others speak, taking in their words or their responses. The message they had, was similar, though the way they would be achieved differed from Jedi to Jedi. Oren had never been great with words, he had often felt like a burden -- deep down he always had felt like that teacher he had originally been.

He would step closer to the table, feeling the pain of a Knight he did not know, he made a note of it, but would listen to Master Tallis' suggestions. Vinry spoke, and then Elias, the man had a sound head on his shoulders. His emotions rarely seemed to be in play, it was something the Councilor admired.

"Knight Ryn is correct, we cannot abandon this home. It would be a signal of weakness to the galaxy and to the Sith. To spread across the galaxy would be a sign that we have broken apart, and that is not something we dare show to the galaxy." The Jedi Master would offer a soft sigh, "The Free World Alliance and our Order have not had a clear defined position on where we stand. They have met with us prior, but we have no formal outlines on what it entails. Knight Ryn and myself have traveled to Ruusan and aided their people into accepting help from the Free World Alliance."

"As you have mentioned Master Tallis, we do not have the means to run our own fleet, but the Free Worlds do. I believe that Knight Ryn is correct in his assessment, we must aide and help build the defenses of the Alliance, help bring more border worlds into their fold, and be prepared to aide them. Not as their solders, but as their allies and friends. War is coming, and unlike the Arcanist and Rain, this is different. The Eternal will not stop until the galaxy is under their control. We must destroy the Sith, even if it's a dangerous task."

He looked across the room, "Understand that it is our duty to provide balance in the force, many of us may die in the process. We fight for the living and the greater good. If you wish to fight for the wrong reasons, to engage in war for revenge or selfish desires, you will fall to the dark side. Do your best to find comfort and balance. I will be here to guide you in that."

The Councilor took a deep breath as he walked closer to the table, pressing the button on the control table to pull up a map of the galaxy. "Kessel I believe is not in the hands of the Alliance, it may be under criminal control. As a child I was raised in Spice Mines. Such an operation will need to be conducted by those with combat experience."

Oren looked to Hans, Tallis, and Elias, "I accept your feelings on the Guardians, but I believe that you three can create something better. If this is a mission you wish to seek. You have my permission as well as the Council to begin preparing for an operation on Kessel and Gynide."

He would look to the rest of the room, "As for the Kolto, I believe that this is another worthy operation. We will need those who do not fight, those who seek to resolve conflicts and disputes through their words, as well as those who can offer healing. I will lead a mission to the Free World Senate to negotiate terms of what our relationships are. Together through word and sword can we defeat the Sith."

With one last deep breath he would conclude his thoughts, "I trust in you all, in the force, and our code. We will bring balance. If you wish to join the diplomatic endeavors, come to me. If your heart desires for a more direct action please meet with Councilor Grayza and Knight Ryn. Once these operations are concluded, we will announce a new grand master. Until then, find peace and seek balance in yourself."

Oren would step away from the map of the galaxy and would wait for those who wished to partake in tasks to the Alliance. Max will want to participate, I know he will. I need to find him when this is over, make sure he's okay.

tag: @Orbit @Wit @Catbert @Mr. Teatime @Killa Ree @Rhogar

 

[Isen Ramm]

Isen listened. He was a padawan and had no business speaking aloud. Obviously, he agreed with some points and disagreed with some points, but because of his station, he would keep his mouth shut do what he was told. He was excited about the prospects of joining the Guardians, but Izel Thral was his teacher. She had been one of the strongest supporters of the Guardian movement and right in the thick of their planning and preparation leading up to Sullust. Her young padawan hoped she would be of the same mind. Still, he could sense that his teacher was pondering many things, and her support and vigor for the Guardians was dampened considerably.

As for the Jedi as a whole, there was so much concern about the Sith finding out about Yavin, and of course they would in time. The Sith would search until they found what they were looking for. And obviously, Ajan Kloss was no longer a secret. The Jedi were in the process of planning and organizing. The way Isen saw it, they needed time.

He leaned over and whispered where only his Master, Izel Thral (@Reyn ) could hear, "I don't understand why we don't we just drop some misinformation about an underground base on some remote place like Malagarr with some bogus schematics and blueprints. Let them kick sand in Wild Space looking for something that isn't there for a while as we settle in and figure things out."

He didn't wait for a response. He just leaned back and continued listening.

 

[Izel Thral]

The usually talkative Vratix remained silent as the grave as the talk shifted towards strategy for future operations. She was glad Kori and Oren seemed to be setting things straight, she wouldn't have liked to see them on bad terms. Still, as she listened to the proceeding debate she couldn't help but feel a sense of déjà vu. Much of what was said had already been broached and discussed in Kori's initial pitch for the Guardian initiative. And yet here they were behaving as if all these ideas were new. Of course she hoped things would work out as planned, and their efforts would prove more successful with the increased oversight. But she still couldn't help but feel like something was wrong.

Despite all the insistence that things would be different, that they would do things better, Izel just saw a wheel turning, and history repeating itself. Here the Jedi were again, going to war with the Sith. War under a different stripe of course, but war nonetheless. She had been quick to take up arms herself before, and push others to do so. But after Sullust it all felt so... What? Fruitless? Counterproductive? What was it that was eating her? Isn't this what she wanted? She still couldn't decide. She needed time to think.

As Isen approached to speak quietly to her she turned her head slightly to hear him out. Ah, just more prospective strategy. She knew her Padawan would be eager to take part in all this excitement. No doubt partially a result of her training. "That sounds like a wise plan to me." She answered him absently as she looked back towards the crowd. And she did mean that, a misinformation campaign could prove useful. Still, she couldn't hide the distinct tone that her heart wasn't in any of this. "You should bring the idea to the Council's attention." She encouraged him dispassionately. She kept watching the debate for a few more silent moments, antennae twitching as she fell into deep thought. Finally without addressing anyone else in the room she simply turned and walked past her apprentice, making her way towards the exit.

"There are some things I must attend to." She explained to Isen distantly. "Find me on the upper level in a few hours. There's much we need to discuss, and I need to decide what we're going to do next." She had to get some peace and quiet, put herself to a simple menial task while she sorted herself out. What to do? Report to Master Grayza? That should have been the natural choice for her, but for one reason or another she just couldn't get her spirit behind it anymore. Perhaps she should go to Oren then? He was always the wisest man she knew, and perhaps he would have answers to why she was feeling this way. Maybe later. For the time being at least, she didn't really want anything to do with this. It only remained to be seen what she did want to be a part of.

/Exit Thread
@Isen

 

[Nykoria Tallis]

Somehow, when the human woman spoke and warned against the consequences of aligning with the Free Worlds, Nykoria experienced a strong case of déjà vu again. She had discussed that with Max, Hannibal and the others a while ago. The logic of avoiding another Empire and Jedi Purge was sound, sure. But it would be naive to expect help from the Free Worlds without at least something in return. Not to mention that the FWA was already targeted by the Sith. Corellia and Coruscant (twice) were the prime examples why the Free Worlds were already at risk. They were what had spurred the foundation of Guardians in the first place.

But before an argument could ensue, Elias stepped in. He seemed to understand where Nykoria was coming from, and even suggested a plan that focused on two worlds: Kessel and Gyndine. It remained to be seen how the Jedi could ingratiate themselves with those worlds so much as to have them build ships and provide personnel for the Order. But it was a plan. Elias's remark on the Guardians though only evoked a sad smile. Courage, huh? That alone doesn't count for much. You can ask the Eternal to prove it. But you've got a level head, a plan, and our past mistakes to work with.

Kolto from Manaan was also brought up. If so, perhaps bacta from Thyferra could also help? It was the Vratix planet, and Izel... Izel was leaving? It took Kori a while to make out her friend, who was right by the exit at that very moment. There was something different about the Vratix. Her mood resonated with Kori's to some extent, but there was something different... Something that the Zeltron hadn't sensed before. It tugged at Kori just as much as at her friend... But then Oren spoke again.

Kori listened to everything that Councillor Zapan had to say, but her thoughts dwelled on Izel and Nara. They all might have escaped Sullust almost unharmed, but Sullust hadn't escaped Kori's mind; no doubt her friends were going through the same thing. Something was brewing, and Nykoria couldn't say yet what it would turn out to be.

Meanwhile, Oren finished his speech and seemed to be expecting a decision. It would be a lie to say it would've been easier a few weeks before; Kori could contribute to either team, and both missions were equally important. Making the decision there and then was tough, especially with her mind on friends and family. "I'll defer to your judgement and do whatever the Council deems me needed for," she looked both at Oren and Hannibal. "All I ask is a week to attend to one last personal matter on Coruscant. After that, I'll be at your disposal."

Provided it wasn't an issue, the Zeltron would bow out and leave it at that for the time being. Even though Oren had reassured her, there were a lot of things for Kori to consider.

// Exit Thread Attempt

 

[Isen Ramm]

"That sounds like a wise plan to me," Izel told him in regards to his misinformation campaign idea. She said it, but she seemed quite disinterested. She was unusually cold and monotone. She may have heard and internalized the idea. She may have even thought it was a good idea, but she had other, more pressing issues on her mind. "You should bring the idea to the Council's attention."

Well, that wasn't going to happen. If it was an idea that warranted discussion, he wasn't going to be the one to speak up. He certainly wasn't going to speak up in a meeting like this, a lowly padawan, and not a particularly accomplished one at that. This idea would just float off into the ether somewhere. Besides, if Master Thral didn't think enough of it to mention it herself, it may have been an idea with merit, but it obviously wasn't a gamechanger.

A few moments later, Izel got up and made her exit. "There are some things I must attend to," his master said on the way out. "Find me on the upper level in a few hours. There's much we need to discuss, and I need to decide what we're going to do next." He could tell that she was greatly bothered. Bothered by a great many things. Bothered by the events on Sullust and Ajan Kloss. Bothered by some of her padawan's shortcomings. He knew that she likely blamed herself unfairly for all of these things. He simply nodded and continued to listen. Not long afterwards, Izel's best friend, Master Tallis also made her leave and things seemed to winding down.

The padawan could feel the Force rippling through the temple. The Jedi were hurting. There was anger, sadness, grief. There was a heavy undercurrent of aggression, and strangely enough, it wasn't coming from him. A black cloud sat over the temple, and while there some answers, nobody was certain if they were the right ones. Even still, more questions abounded. Isen, cognizant of his station, would give sufficient time to make sure the meeting was over. At such time, he would take the opportunity to slip out and prepare himself for his meeting with Master Thral.

// Exit Thread Attempt

 

[Alexandria Voran]

The years changed yet the Jedi stayed the same. As the Darkness rose, they failed to unite and instead splintered. Alex’s eyes scanned the room again. There was so much pain and anguish in the Force. This was not a family, or if it was, that family was broken. She didn’t speak as others voiced their growing concerns. It was not her place. Alex had been away for too long to feel comfortable speaking out. These Jedi did not truly know her because she had never given them the chance. A small voice in the back of her mind urged her to give in, to give up. Return to her wandering lifestyle away from the trouble of the Order.

She shook her head…that was not right. She knew it was not right. The Light pulsed in her heart. Stay. Fight. Was that really the right thing to do? Alex could stand tall in her own way. Perhaps this is why the Order had failed in the past. Too many had given in when the war had truly begun. They had forgotten who they were. She would not allow that to happen again. As the meeting concluded Alex reached out with her mind, brushing against Master Zapan (@TWD26). “I will go with you to the Senate…it is where I can help the most.” She gathered her robes around herself and began to leave. Her mind reached out again. “Tell me when we’re leaving.”

Alex strode from the chamber. She prayed she was not leaving an Order in shambles behind. The Jedi Knight was a healer and the Order needed healing. She could do that…maybe. She could at least stop the Jedi from fraying apart at the edger. The Council had good intentions, but she doubted they saw the true fractures underneath. These were deep wounds that would not disappear easily.

/Exit Thread