Ask Watery Words

[Alexandria Voran]

The Liberty burst from hyperspace above Mon Cala. The MC80A flanked by Raider III-Class Corvettes on either side. The glistening blue pearl of the Ocean world center stage on bridge viewport. Alex stood with her hands clasped behind her back, eyes forward. Captain Jesna stood at attention to her right. The Mon Cala native smiled. “Good to be home.” She patted him lightly on the shoulder. “Hopefully.” The Morellian Jedi breathed deeply. Alex no longer looked the part of the diplomat. Her robes were the same as always but beneath her armor stood in stark contrast, her sabers swinging lightly when she moved. “Please let Commander Widase know we have arrived and are ready to meet at the Crown’s leisure.” The Captain saluted. “At once, Grandmaster.” She rolled her eyes as she walked away. Captain Jesna very much enjoyed poking fun.

Her mind spread out across the ship while she made her way to her chambers. They were just beside the bridge. The Force felt heavy with expectations. Had she over done the delegation? She wanted the Commander and Crown to understand how important this was. She’d brought their most knowledgeable historians, three vessels, and herself…how much more could she underscore her commitment? Alex took a deep breath. Her feet rested on the right path. She knew that. The Force rang all through her bones.

She quickly flicked the secure coms on. The Jedi that joined her delegation would hear her voice pop in their ears. “We’ve arrived…meeting location to follow.” There was a brief pause. “Best behavior.” The Jedi Order’s relationship with the FWA was precarious. What transpired here could tip the scales in their favor. The New Republic was firmly an ally, but the FWA was hard to fully grasp. Too many worlds and too many priorities. Figure out Mon Cala and some of that might start to make better sense. Then, she could focus on the ISC.

@Fine Dining Set @SlagathorTheUnknown @llamallove

 

[Jal Widase]

Mon Cala was alone. That was the lesson of Felucia. No degree of trust, no matter of protocol, could override the pigheadedness of politicians when things didn't go their way. The Crown had half a mind to throw out their treaties and close themselves to the galaxy, let the Jedi, Sith, FWA, and Repulbic bomb themselves out of existence. Whoever won could rule over the heap of bones.

Cooler heads had not yet prevailed. This was an opportunity, perhaps the final one, for the Jedi to make positive contact with the watery world of Mon Cala. Luckily, they had a man on the inside.

"Jesna?! You old sea-dog, I wondered what had happened to you!" Widase laughed loudly through the comms; of course, he had known that Captain Jesna was now piloting the Liberty. "I swore the Hutts had picked you up after our shore leave on Tattooine. Oh, come on, don't play like you don't remember - what was her name....Twi'lek, big lekku...." He sneered again. "Ah, well, be ready to dock. There's going to be a feast tonight to commemorate the Liberty's tour back home. Make sure you tell the crew."

"And tell the Jedi to be on their best behavior. The situation is tense here, after Felucia."

Widase made his way to the landing site.

He was surrounded by a crowd; not by the King himself, but by a number of the functionaries who spoke in his name. Quarren and Mon Calamari engineers, artisans, sculptors, and sailors who all had a different interest in this project. Each had a stake in their prized vessel returning home, a piece of their history made manifest; it was a boon, a good omen, in a time of extreme darkness. Perhaps, though, it was always darkest before the dawn.

Perhaps today could mark a change. Widase stood at the front of the delegation, hundreds of citizens stretched on a long bridge beside him. They were eager to enter, but for now, they waited with baited breath as the massive Cruiser, once a city in Mon Cala's own oceans, slowly descended back into the pristine waters.

@SlagathorTheUnknown @llamallove @Valen Pelora

 

[Atris Tharen]

It was fitting that the group of Jedi traveled to the Outer Rim planet of Mon Cala aboard a starship once manufactured on the watery world. It was doubtful that arriving in a ship built by the Mon Calamari Shipyards would win them any points with the planet's people, but it couldn't hurt.

Jedi Knight Atris Tharen and Jedi Padawan Ruzaan Kai had been holed up in the Main Hold of the star cruiser for several hours, both intently focused on an ongoing game of Holochess. The pair were at least six games in, but neither of them had yet lost interest. Seated across from Ruzaan on a grey couch, Atris' brow furrowed in concentration as she watched one of her Nautolan get carried off by a large, red Sauvax with pincers.

"You're sure you're not cheating somehow?" she teased the young Padawan, preparing to move another Nautolan across the board. It was the second game in a row the young Padawan had beaten her in, and she couldn't resist giving him a hard time.

One of Ruzaan's Sauvax suddenly snapped her piece in half with its pincers, and she burst out laughing. "That reminds me of..."

The unmistakable voice of the Jedi Grandmaster sounded over their coms, cutting the story short. “We’ve arrived…meeting location to follow... Best behavior."

Atris turned to Ruzaan. "We better get ready." She switched the holotable off and stood, stretching before pulling a robe over her clothing to conceal her lightsabers.

It was imperative that the Jedi improve relations with the Free Worlds Alliance before it was loo late. Already unpopular within the ISC and other independent worlds that had been impacted by the Sith expansion, the Jedi needed all the allies they could get.

"You nervous?" she asked the Padawan a few minutes later as they walked the long hallways of the star cruiser.

@SlagathorTheUnknown @Valen Pelora @Fine Dining Set

 

[Ruzaan Kai]

Ruzaan still wasn't exactly sure why he'd been asked on this mission to Mon Cala. Of course, he was grateful for the opportunity to go on a mission with Atris again, but it was more than a little nerve-wracking to be part of a delegation that included the Grandmaster of the Jedi Order. Was this some kind of test? What if the Grandmaster didn't think that he and Atris worked well together? Did he need to know how to swim in order to get around on Mon Cala?

These questions and more bounced around in his head until Atris pulled him aside and introduced him to Holochess. The idea of pack tactics- a way of life on Shili- made him a quick study of the game, but he couldn't shake the feeling that she was going easy on him after starting out with five straight victories against him. He'd just opened up a large lead when the Grandmaster's voice popped into his head. Ruzaan nearly jumped out of his seat. How does she do that?

Ruzaan powered off the holotable and checked his gear; he wore dark brown Jedi Wanderer robes, and his double-bladed lightsaber was tucked carefully underneath his outer robe. A fully-stocked utility belt, including an extra rebreather, ran around his waist. His short-range comlink claimed to have the ability to function underwater up to 50m, which felt like a lot until you took a look at the depths where Mon Cala's cities were. Added to his kit for this mission was a pair of goggles for use underwater, if needed.

Ruzaan fell in beside Atris as they walked along the halls of the cruiser, Ruzaan's bare feet silent against the cool metal floor. "Are you nervous?" she asked, as if reading his mind. Ruzaan tried to calm the rush of nerves inside of him as the two Jedi made their way towards the bridge. Every step took them closer to the most powerful person that Ruzaan knew; Grandmaster Voran. He wasn't afraid of her as much as he admired the grace with which she carried the authority that rested upon her shoulders; the authority of the entire Jedi Order. True leaders like Alex were rare in Togrutan society, and the Grandmaster was in a class all by herself.

"No" he replied.

"Actually, yes."

@llamallove @Fine Dining Set @Valen Pelora

 

[Alexandria Voran]

“Landing underway…the people are uneasy Alex.” Jesna’s use of her first name was all the warning Alex needed. “Understood.” She could feel the pressure subtly shift aboard the Liberty. Captain Jesna had warned her of this particularity. The Mon Cala ships had launched from the ocean and were fitted to return to their resting place. He believed it was likely that would be requested. Alex could feel the ship drifting down towards the seas. The Grandmaster took a deep breath. She stood and left.

The moment she crossed the threshold serenity took hold. Alex made no effort to hid herself in the Force. To the Jedi on board, or any other Force sensitive, she blazed brightly. She was a perfectly controlled flame. Powerful but contained. Her face a smooth mask. Her thoughts tight. Alex was the picture from the holovids. She quickly traversed the cruiser to join the delegation. They would leave the Liberty through one of the exposed hangars. “Jedi Tharen…Padawan Kai.” She nodded to both. “Each member of our delegation was chosen with purpose, remember that for whatever is to come.” Alex raised her voice…command echoing in the Force. “Open the hangar.”

The hangar slowly opened to reveal the waiting Mon Cala party. Cheers rose up from the onlookers. They did not cheer the Jedi but rather the return of Liberty. Alex pushed calm confidence into the Force. She was in control. Her eyes immediately found Commander Widase as she stepped into the Mon Cala sun. She smiled warmly, her face breaking into an easy grin. Alex raised her voice again. “Commander, I must say this is a fair bit more beautiful than our last meeting.” Lothal had appeal but the shimmering tropical oceans of Mon Cala with the backdrop of incredible architecture was staggering. The hum of the Force only reinforced that feeling. She gestured towards Atris and Ruzaan. “Jedi Knight Atris Tharen and Padawan Ruzaan Kai.” She pointed Widase. “Commander Widase.” Introductions over she mentioned the group gathering behind her. “And the very best of our historians and scholars who have devoted their lives to the deeper mysteries of the Force.” A blazing fire burning the path of the Order forward.

@Fine Dining Set @SlagathorTheUnknown @llamallove

 

[Jal Widase]

Shick. Ka-chick.

The clicks and flashes of cameras began as the ship opened, its long journey from its home now complete. There were cheers, applause from onlookers, as Captain Jesna, Grandmaster Voran, and the Jedi delegation descended. The cheers, of course, were mixed with boos; some at the Jedi for their perceived role in the war, some at the Mon Cala Jesna for leaving his station, and some directed at the people booing. It was quite a cacophony of sound. As the raucousness continued, Widase took the moment to offer Alexandria a friendly greeting. He spoke loudly - not enough to command the attention of the crowd, but enough that onlookers would certainly hear.

"Grandmaster." He chuckled as she complemented his world. It really was the most beautiful world in the galaxy; its oceans were perfectly unspoiled. "Thank you for meeting me. And greetings, young Jedi, and," he prepared a loud yell, "Welcome to Mon Cala!" The crowd broke out again into applause, which Widase figured would be the opportune time to give the speech he had spent so long preparing.

He walked up the ramp of the hangar, a position from which all onlookers would gaze upwards towards him.

"Ahem. One hundred and forty four years ago, the Rebel Alliance, armed with the vessels of Mon Cala, made its first decisive strike against the Galactic Empire, at the Battle of Yavin. All of us have heard the stories - Admiral Gial Ackbar, the unbending crusader. Adrimal Raddus, the fiery prophet that led the exodus fleet. King Lee-Char's famous speech to inspire our people to battle." Crowdd members nodded, some alight with this history, some bored at the often-repeated message.

"But what our stories often do not say, is that we have never desired war. Much like this ship, this artifact, the Liberty - all we have ever wanted is freedom. Freedom to make our own choices, freedom to explore the waves of our oceans, freedom to sail our great craft across the stars. And we have never bowed, bent, or kneeled to those who would take our fundamental freedoms." There was a scattered applause as he spoke.

"I have always said that we are a peaceful people, but we are a proud people. Who hasn't had a grandfather regale their spawn with old sailing stories? Or an Aunt who has toiled on the docks as a shipwright? I know that I have, and if I know my people, you have too." He paused for a chuckle. "It is we who have much to be proud about. For eons, we have stood as a bastion of liberty to the entire galaxy. The peoples of this great galaxy look to us, for our excellent ships, for our finished goods, and for our upright moral character."

His cheery expression hardened. "I warn you, my fellow countrymen, walking the path of righteousness is not easy. I once had few scruples, I was of low character. I robbed the honest to feed myself, smuggled drugs to make criminal syndicates rich off of the suffering of my countrymen." He nodded somberly. "It was only our King, the Great Rikkles Le'Fam, who set my course straight, who saw that I had more to offer this world. And it is in his name that I celebrate the landing of the Liberty. For who else could we thank for this auspicious occasion? In this time of chaos and darkness, where the galaxy becomes increasingly bloody, only a man as firm, as resolute as King Le'Fam can drag the dawn from the dusk." The applause grew at the mention of the King, his subjects a permanent throng at his side.

"The Liberty. Taken by pirates after its tour of duty across the stars, the Jedi freed it and brought it home. So let us thank the Jedi in the Mon Cala way: They shall commemorate the ships' landing!" Cheers and celebrations started amongst the crowd as Commander Widase produced a bottle of sparkling sea water. A young Quarren child, old enough to do little more than walk, was pushed towards the front of the delegation. Widase picked up the young boy, placing the bottle in his small hands, before handing him to Ruzaan (@SlagathorTheUnknown). He took a moment to whisper in the Padawan's ear.

"Just, uh, use your Force magic to help his throw, eh?" He winked towards Atris (@llamallove), hoping she had heard and would follow suit.

"On Mon Cala, it is not enough for you to set sail to be commemorated. We are born in the sail. No, here, we celebrate those vessels that know when to come home. And we let the youngest of us light the path ahead." The Quarren child looked at Ruzaan, a confused, teary-eyed look forming. He looked like he was about to cry. Widase turned his attention to the boy once more. "Young one, help us celebrate the return of the Liberty! Throw the bottle against the ship, that we may all make merry and celebrate whence we return to our home!"

The celebration approached raucousness, but the gathered crowd eagerly awaited the smashing of the bottle against the ship's hull. The Quarren boy, confused by all the noise, let the bottle slip from his hands - it began to plummet off the landing, to the ocean below.

@Valen Pelora @llamallove @SlagathorTheUnknown

 

[Atris Tharen]

"Don't be," she smiled warmly, offering Ruzaan a friendly pat on the shoulder. The words "don't be" didn't offer all that much encouragement to one in the throes of anxiety, but it was just something people said anyway. She added, "Grandmaster Voran has faith in you, otherwise she wouldn't have asked you to come along."

It wasn't long until the pair of Jedi met up with the delegation and Grandmaster Voran, all gathering in the hanger to prepare to leave The Liberty.

"Grandmaster," Atris greeted, nodding respectfully to the woman in turn. The Jedi Grandmaster's presence in the Force was brighter than usual that day, like a flame that burnt fiercely but would never grow out of control. It was impossible to ignore, and no one gifted in the ways of the Force would want to ignore its calming and assuring presence. It reminded Atris that the Jedi Order was in good hands.

As the hangar opened and the light of day shone on them, Atris blinked a few times. The beauty of Mon Cala was breathtaking, but the Jedi Knight's gaze would not linger on its oceans for long, instead drifting to the group of people that had gathered at the space port to welcome The Liberty home. The people of Mon Cala had shown up in droves, cheering and waving flags as they pushed up against one another to get a better look at the star cruiser.

Grandmaster Voran introduced the two Jedi and the group of delegates that followed her to the Mon Calamari that stood at the forefront of the crowd.

"It's a pleasure to meet you," Atris replied, smiling at Commander Widase as he welcomed them to his home planet. His demeanor was friendly and open, quite the contrast to the boos the Jedi had received.

Once the necessary introductions had been made, Commander Widase climbed the ramp that led into the open hanger. Standing before the crowd, his patriotic speech warmed the hearts of the people as they cheered and clapped in response. If Atris had been Mon Calamari, she imagined his speech would have elicited a similar response in her.

She couldn't help but chuckle to herself as Commander Widase placed a small boy in the arms of Ruzaan and urged them forward toward the ship. The small boy looked like he was about to cry, and the bottle precariously placed within his hands was almost as big as he was.

As the bottle slipped from the small child's hands, Atris followed the Commander's instructions. With a small, imperceptible wave of her hand, the bottle gained some altitude and crashed into the metal plating of the star cruiser.

@SlagathorTheUnknown @Valen Pelora @Fine Dining Set

 

[Ruzaan Kai]

Atris' words did little to comfort Ruzaan, but her presence was enough to keep him from shaking as they reached the bridge and greeted Grandmaster Voran. They were joined by Commander Jal Widase, to whom Ruzaan bowed also respectfully in greeting. Despite the Grandmaster's words, the Togruta had doubts as to what his purpose was here- surely there were better padawans to serve as envoys?- but there was no time for clarification as the Liberty's hangar was opened to thunderous applause and more than a few jeers.

Ruzaan gazed out over the assembly during Commander Widase's speech, taking in the aquatic Mon Calamari and Quarren peoples. The Mon Calamari Commander clearly knew how to give a patriotic speech, and Ruzaan even recognized a few of the names and events that he referenced; a testimony to Mon Cala's prominence in galactic history. Ruzaan tried to stay focused as his eyes strayed out over the beautiful waters of the planet, and was brought back to the present when Commander Widase finished his speech to another round of enthusiastic applause.

Up until this point, Ruzaan had more or less been following Atris' lead and avoiding drawing attention to himself, but that plan was foiled when a squirming Quarren toddler was thrust into his hands. The baby's face spoke of dismay, confusion, and near-panic at being placed in such a position, and Ruzaan also felt uncomfortable. He held the baby at arm's length and hoped that the little one knew enough to lob the bottle in the general direction of the ship.

The Jedi soon found out that the word throw wasn't in the baby's dictionary, and Ruzaan nearly dropped the child in a reflective attempt to catch the falling bottle. Thankfully, he remembered his charge at the last moment and did not let go of the baby, instead pulling the child back to the relative safety of his arms, plastering a smile on his face as he did so and looking for the Quarren baby's guardian to return the boy to.

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[Alexandria Voran]

Alex beamed at the Commander. Oh, he was a showman. She would never have guessed from their first meeting on Lothal. Here, in his element, he commanded the crowd. She subtly pushed hope into the Force. The people would feel the essence of the Light when gazing at the Jedi. Collective thoughts of a crowd were dangerous things, but they could be nudged in the right direction. Alex was a master at those subtly shifted.

Peace, harmony, and serenity were what the Jedi brought. Luckily, Atris and Ruzaan were properly up to the task. They did not drop the child and the bottle sailed to burst against the Liberty. The roar of the crowd grew as did Alex’s smile. She whispered to her fellow Jedi. “Well done.”

Her focus shifted back to Jal. “Your tour awaits, Commander.” The celebration was important. She understood that above all else, but they had a deal to iron out. The Commander and the Alex wanted the same thing…a galaxy free of tyranny. They agreed the Sith stood in the way of that goal. It was simply a matter of focusing the resources of the galaxy on that goal. This was no easy task and they knew it.

@Fine Dining Set @SlagathorTheUnknown @llamallove

 

[Jal Widase]

With the bottle shattered, the vehicle was commemorated and the celebrations began. The young boy wriggled out of Ruuzan's hands - were all Quarren toddlers so slimy? - and ran back to the eager arms of his own family. The crowd began to disperse from the dock specifically, as curious onlookers went about their business, and the friends and family of those Mon Cala crew members met their long-gone families. In the end, there were only a dozen civilians left, which Mon Cala police began to shoo towards the city so that the real work could begin.

His large, jovial façade began to evaporate, giving way to a Mon Cala with a deeply burdened look on his face. Each day brought different challenges, threats to the very fragile peace the prosperous world enjoyed. Each day brought new opportunities, new risks, and new wars to the shores of Mon Cala. The higher in rank that Commander Widase became, the more the sheer stress of the position became burdensome; he began to understand just what had left King Le'Fam in such a fragile state.

He looked weathered, like a tree after a heavy rain or leather dried too long. He was joined by a small number of engineers, military staff, and select artisans to join him throughout this tour. Widase stood at the head of the delegation. "Grandmaster Voran. I assume you have briefed the Jedi on the nature of our tour today." He glanced towards Ruuzan and Atris. "If she has not, let me be the first to tell you. We are making history!" He chuckled at himself, tapping once more into the joyous energy of his public face. He quite liked that version of himself. "Creating a new type of vessel for your Order to use." He gestured at the massive cruiser. "Using your talents in the Force towards practical engineering."

"And, perhaps, reaching a new understanding." He glanced knowingly towards the Jedi. He figured that the real point of interest was Mon Cala's fleet, an armament strong enough to give even an Empire pause before invading. But Mon Cala had no desire, no willpower, to fight a war outside of what was strictly necessary to defend its own borders. The borders of its galactic next-door neighbor and ally, Lothal, had naturally brought the Jedi and Mon Cala together. But, if those very same neighbors threatened Mon Cala's own peace and stability, well...

Difficult decisions were on the horizon, either way. "But let's not get ahead of ourselves. I would like to split us into groups, if possible. Pairs. A Jedi for each of our delegation. We can jointly explore the ship, point out areas in need of improvement; our engineering and military know-how with your understanding of the Force. Put our skills to best use." Pairs began to naturally form - Jedi-trained archivists with Mon Cala historians, engineers with the philosophers of the force, and a few outsiders. "Ruuzan, I would like you to meet Captain Aldoon of the Navy of Dac. He's the best pilot the Navy's ever seen, flown countless rescue and recovery missions for our peoples." The Captain in question was a tall, thin Quarren; he nodded sagely towards Ruuzan. "Perhaps the two of you can go to the hangars, evaluate its state, and speak plainly about its faults?" He didn't exactly trust Padawan-learners, and he knew the boy had been introduced as one. He hoped the severe attitude that Aldoon was known for would help to keep the young one in line.

Captain Aldoon began to stride in its direction. He had served aboard several Liberty-class cruisers, and knew precisely where the fighter hangar would be. He looked back in Ruuzan's direction. "Young one, follow my lead."

He turned next to Atris. "And, you, Knight Therin; this is Fareen Shepardi, one of the finest metalworkers and a would-be shipwright. She has recently accepted a prestigious position in Mon Cala Shipyard's design department." The young Mon Calamari woman bound forward, already curiously touching and studying the halls of the ship.

"Don't let him inflate my ego, it's just a fellowship." She smiled brightly towards Atris. "Come on, you wanna get moving? I've always wanted to see the bridge of this one; you know she was at the Battle for Endor?" She grabbed Atris's hand and tugged her towards the ship.

The last two left were Widase and Grandmaster Voran. As intended. A smile slowly returned to his face, not yet reaching his eyes. "Ah, well, perhaps you can show me around the ship, Grandmaster? You must be acquainted with it, after your voyage out here."

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[Atris Tharen]

The Jedi Knight's brown eyes hovered over the Quarren introduced to the group as Captain Aldoon. Tall and thin, the wear and tear of time was visible on the Captain's tan and wrinkled face. His features were severe and serious, his turquoise eyes piercing and critical. She wondered at the Admiral's choice to pair the old, imposing Captain up with Ruzaan, but she did not question it. Grandmaster Vorran's instructions of "best behavior" rung in her mind.

Leaning in toward Ruzaan before the Captain could take him away, she whispered so only the Padawan could hear, "Remember, maintain eye contact. Don't get distracted by the tentacles." She winked at him, offering him one last encouraging smile before he walked away.

Atris' attention was soon stolen by the young Mon Calamari, Fareen Shepardi. Spunky and outgoing, the shipwright grabbed ahold of the Jedi Knight's hand and drug her off toward the bridge of The Liberty. Atris attempted to match the young girl's enthusiasm, but anyone who knew Atris at all was aware of the fact that she didn't know the first thing about ships.

"Was she really?" the Jedi Knight replied as Fareen filled the Jedi in on some of the ship's history. Already it was obvious that the Mon Calamari knew more about the star cruiser than Atris did.

It was doubtful that Fareen would learn anything from Atris about the vessel, but Atris would certainly learn a thing or two from Fareen.

@SlagathorTheUnknown @Fine Dining Set @Valen Pelora​

 

[Ruzaan Kai]

The brief ceremony concluded and the Quarren baby toddled back to its family, leaving Ruzaan to choose an inauspicious moment to wipe his hands on the outside of his cloak. The baby's skin had been... damp, which Ruzaan didn't want to think too much about after he was introduced to Captain Aldoon, who was also a Quarren. Ruzaan bowed politely in greeting and mentally prepared himself for what sounded like Important Business, given the serious face of the Captain. Be on your best behavior, he reminded himself, but then Atris leaned over with a twinkle in her eye. When she was done, the Togruta had to bite his lip to keep from giggling; perhaps it was Atris' intent, but now all Ruzaan could focus on was the way that the Captain's tentacles quivered in defiance of their drill-sergeant gaze and impeccable posture. Thanks, Atris.

The Togruta followed the thin Quarren into the Liberty, bare feet silently tracing Captain Aldoon's meticulous footsteps. What had Commander Widase asked them to inspect? The hangars? Ruzaan, with only limited experience with things like spaceships or fleet tactics, decided that it would be best to let the Captain take the lead while soaking up as much knowledge as he could.

@llamallove @Valen Pelora @Fine Dining Set

 

[Alexandria Voran]

Alex centered herself among the group as the crowd dispersed. She allowed the Command to do most of the heavy lifting. “A wise suggestion.” Her smile stayed perfectly placed. “We will be able to show you areas which the Force resonates most strongly.” The natural design of the Mon Cala vessels encouraged use of the Force. It was must like the Temples in that design. If they could further replicate that help, it would be tremendously helpful. Alex, of course, had bigger goals. As the pairs began to break off, she quickly touched the minds of Atris and Ruzaan. “They are our allies. Treat them kindly…but watch carefully.” The Grandmaster trusted Jal Widase but she had to be careful. War made strangers of them all.

At long last, the Commander and Alex were alone. She nodded before beginning to lead them into the ship. “It is a marvel. Even after all these years, she holds her own in the sky.” Her fingers trailed against the durasteel fondly. “I’m not sure we would have defended Ossus successfully without her.” She turned to face the Mon Cala. “You can call me Alex.” They were alone as they began their trip through the ship. “It’s just the two of us.” She had truly never been one for grand formalities. That was best left to those better suited for their titles.

“So, what happens next?” Lothal was firmly in the war. There was no doubt of that. New Alderaan joined them but what of Mon Cala? She did not know. They seemed allies but she knew Widase did not want war unless there was no other choice. She felt the same. The only difference being Alex believed that choice had already been taken away.

@Ruzaan Kai @Fine Dining Set @llamallove

 

[Jal Widase]

Atris and Fareen would hurry over to the bridge of the massive ship; she could barely hold her excitement in. Along the way, she would indulge in a bit of history about the ship. "Yes, she did! One of the ships under Admiral Ackbar's command. She sailed with the Resistance fleet, too, but was lost until the Jedi rescued her." Her eyes bulged out of their sockets with excitement. "Were you on the ship when you fought pirates? I bet that was so exciting!" As she wandered through the ship, she wondered about its history; curious about what the Jedi could know that wasn't told in the ship's extensive service record.

"Is it true, what the Grandmaster said? You can 'feel' the strongest points of attachment on this ship? Is there anything it tells you?" She ran her hands over the walls. Uniquely crafted, both by hand and by machine. No two ships were exactly the same. "We use a similar process for design, here. It's what I wrote my thesis on. These ships...they tell you where you want to be built."
It was quite like sculpting, or painting, in her eyes; ships were a canvas waiting to be filled, new lands waiting to be explored. To Fareen, seeing this design process through was an incomparable feeling; she imagined it only came second to sailing the ships herself.

As the pair reached the bridge, she was left to imagine the great history of this vessel. Meetings with famous admirals, Mon Cala with iron resolves; she imagined joy, wrath, sadness, hope radiated throughout this vessel. She wondered, if she could imagine all this, what the Jedi knew. "Can you feel anything, here?" She extended her arms around the bridge, towards the captain's chair. "Is the Force telling you anything about this ship?"

_____________________________​

Captain Aldoon walked with purpose ahead of Ruzaan. His wrinkled face revealed little - and his mind was firmer, still. An iron wall of a man, that could not be penetrated. He stepped towards the hangar in a thoughtful silence before he turned to the young Padawan. "The Jedi Order's skill in combat is legendary. While most are dazzled by your swordsmanship, though, I see your true power in piloting starcraft." The pair stood outside the hangar, now; a dark, massive corridor filled with Mon Cala Starfighters. These fighters have long been dormant, having sat in the hangar of the ship for the better part of a century. Still, it was a dazzling array - the Captain could not help but imagine all of them piloted by the brave freedom fighters of the Mon Cala Exodus Fleet against the tyrannical Empire. A powerful thought.

He stepped in and flicked the lights on - the massive hangar's rows of ceiling slowly powered on, one row at a time, as the hangar came alive. His stern façade gave way to a mischievous look towards the Padawan as he gazed at the fighters. "I admit, I have always wanted to test my own skills against a Jedi." He ran a long, bony hand over the wing of one fighter. "We are meant to use your Force ability and my own knowledge to assess this hangar, no?" He hoped the Padawan understood where he was going. "So, surely, it would behoove us to...examine the craft as closely as possible?" He raised a brow at Ruuzan, inviting him to state the idea plainly. Through the Force, Ruuzan could feel the iron wall of Aldoon's fortitude melt away to this desire, this wonder, at the fighter craft before them; it was obvious he wanted to fly one of them.

_____________________________ ​

"Alex," he smiled cheekily. "Meet Jal."

What happens next? Widase laughed at that - so much was constantly in motion, Mon Cala was ever between so many different forces that he knew not from where the next blow would come. Would it be the Sith, who decided against the tense peace they had granted Mon Cala? Would it be from another blunder by a colleague that turned public opinion against its own political body? Or perhaps the Syndicate presence, steadily growing in the world's underbelly, would finally attempt something greater than extortion and smuggling?

Whichever it was, Widase saw a storm on the horizon. A feeling that, no matter which choice they made, the Mon Cala he fought to protect was doomed. King Rikkles was nearing demise; a further strain on the world's already dented reconciliation since the Civil War between Quarren and Mon Cala. A powderkeg, waiting for a lit fuse. An explosion big enough to engulf the entire galaxy. That was what he saw next.

Voran would naturally feel this radiating doubt that leaked out of Widase. "I...I don't know. But I have some ideas." He gestured to the ship. "In exchange for your consultation, Mon Cala Shipyards is prepared to offer your Order a certain percentage on sales of the resulting vessel." A rather unambitious business proposal, but he imagined the Jedi had credit needs, same as any other galactic body. "And we are prepared to support the Jedi with medical and civilian missions in the future. Distributing AMS vaccines, rescuing civilians from natural disaster, food supply deliveries to starving worlds..." The subtext being, of course, non-combat.

"The blowback from Felucia has changed things. I'm sure you can imagine." A world had entered willingly back into Sith hands after Jedi invasion. It rattled confidence in any war effort. "I often wonder about your Order, Alex. I wonder the direction in which you are headed. I wonder exactly what the Jedi's purpose is meant to be in this galaxy. The Sith, for better or for worse, have a clarity of purpose. They use their power to rule worlds." It was admirable in its simplicity; the Sith Empire was an Empire ruled by powerful Force users. While much of their actual activities were clouded in darkness, it made their political objectives relatively clear. He knew what they wanted, at least, even if it seemed chaotic at times. The Jedi, on the other hand...

"You are peerless warriors, skilled diplomats, wise philosophers, and gifted healers. But, these are not qualities that truly set you apart from the rest of the Galaxy. If I were a less humble man," He chuckled, humility was not exactly his strong suit. "I could say that Mon Cala possesses all of these things in great quantity. What is it precisely the Jedi add to our worlds, or want to do? Who are you?"

"I imagine you could say 'we defend the Light against the Shadow,' or something to that effect, but you must understand that is no longer a satisfying answer to me. If you could help me understand, relatively plainly, what the Jedi want for the galaxy and yourselves, outside of your religion, and why others should support you, it helps me to make a case to my own world and others."

@SlagathorTheUnknown @Valen Pelora @llamallove

 

[Atris Tharen]

“They are our allies. Treat them kindly…but watch carefully.”

Ten words that would play over and over again in Atris' head as she and Fareen made their way toward the bridge. The young Mon Calamari girl was as curious as she was energetic, and the Jedi Knight had to wonder if she was always like this or if it was the return of The Liberty that brought excitement to her eyes and a skip to her step.

"No, I wasn't," Atris chuckled. She hated to disappoint the young girl, but it was the truth.

The Jedi Knight leaned against one of the many control panels scattered across the bridge, smiling softly to herself as Fareen floated around the room, her hands running over chairs and panels and walls. The Mon Calamari treated every inch of the star cruiser as if it was the most fascinating craftsmanship she had ever witnessed. Each touch filled her with renewed energy and purpose. It was fun, watching her live out her dreams and getting to do what excited her most.

A moment of silence would pass before Atris would answer the Mon Calamari's question. The Jedi centered herself in the Force, quieting her thoughts and surroundings until all that was left was the slow, steady beating of her own heart. Aligning herself with the very pulse of the star cruiser, she closed her eyes for a few seconds and then looked at Fareen.

There were many emotions alive within the walls of The Liberty, both present and past. Anger. Hope. Devastation. Comradery. The first and strongest emotion the Jedi could feel was fear. Fear creeping over the hearts and minds of each brave rebel as they realized that they'd been led into a trap, as they realized that the Death Star's superlaser was fully operational.

"Fear," Atris finally answered, unsure that was the type of response Fareen was hoping for. "Fear of dying... fear that the mission will not succeed and that they'll never see their families again."

She offered Fareen a smile. "But also hope. Elation as the battle turned in their favor and they watched the Death Star explode before their very eyes."

@SlagathorTheUnknown @Fine Dining Set @Valen Pelora​

 

[Ruzaan Kai]

It took a moment for the Togruta to understand the unasked question within Captain Aldoon's words. The Quarren wanted to have a piloting test against... him? A competitive gleam shone in the Captain's eyes, and despite Ruzaan's misgivings- namely, the fact that he'd not piloted anything larger than a swoop bike before- was soon matched in Ruzaan's smile; a nonverbal acceptance of the Captain Aldoon's friendly competition.

That didn't mean that he would go into the proffered contest blind, though. Technology had never been Ruzaan's strong point, so when Captain Aldoon offered the opportunity to inspect the famed Mon Cala starfighters more closely, he jumped at the chance. "I've heard much about these legendary starfighters" he said, stretching the truth slightly. He'd heard of them... just now. "And I would very much like an expert's perspective on just what makes them such formidable craft." The Padawan gestured towards the nearest starfighter, with a white number seven on its wing inside of a green circle. "Shall we?"

@Fine Dining Set @llamallove @Valen Pelora

 

[Alexandria Voran]

“We’ve forgotten our purpose.” Alex was blunt as Jal was undoubtedly learning. “If you’ll indulge me for a moment.” You learned from the past, but you must never repeat it. They had taken some of that lesson to heart. The Order failed to apply those lessons correctly. “The Force allows for our tremendous gifts and in exchange we safeguard life in the galaxy. The Darkside is the unnatural extinguishing of that life. A power that corrupts absolutely and will devour the soul of even the strongest character.” She raised her hand. “Trust me, I understand how that sounds. To us, it all seems so obvious but to the galaxy those words are meaningless...For there can be no Light without the Dark. No joy without sadness. No success without failure. No salvation without pain.”

The Grandmaster took a deep breath. What did they want? A break. “We have lost sight of our purpose…as we have so many times before. Consumed with our war against the Sith…our never-ending war.” She shook her head. They had made so many mistakes. Mistakes she could not take back. “We want life in the galaxy to prosper and that means ending the war, fighting the AMS virus, tackling poverty, hunger, inequality. That is our purpose.” Alex turned to look at Jal. “Jal, I will accept peace with the Sith if it puts an end to the fighting.” That was true. They needed the war to end, even if that meant a deal with the devil. A temporary salve to an ancient problem.

“We have a power no one else in the galaxy possesses. I can heal any wound, hold a horde of AMS at bay, and I am not restrained by a government. That is who we should be. Our fight with the Sith should not define who we are, and I am changing that.” The Order was meant to serve for the good of the galaxy. They had failed that duty and paid the price. No longer.

@Fine Dining Set @llamallove @SlagathorTheUnknown

 

[Jal Widase]

As the pair of Jedi indulged their curiosities on board the ship, Widase carefully considered the Jedi's proposal. A friendship would guarantee war with the Sith, perhaps, but there were rumblings that the Free Worlds Alliance's border worlds would soon enter a defensive agreement. Regardless, both New Alderaan and Lothal had already committed themselves to the Jedi. Perhaps Mon Cala's choice had already been made.

"Well, Jedi, let us use this power. Mon Cala and the Jedi may form a friendship. We will commit more of our ships and our sailors to your causes. In return, we ask that the Jedi protect Mon Cala with vigor against any threat to our world, be it criminal or Force in nature. These are dark times, and we may soon need your aid."

And, frankly, it seemed like the Jedi needed a win. He wanted to help. And he wanted their help in return. The rest of the tour would be spent with pleasant conversation and observations about the Force and how it showed in Mon Cala design. It was quite like a great gala, or a victorious reception; spirits were high for the potential for growth. Meanwhile, Commander Widase and Grandmaster Voran would hash out further points of collaboration and joint healing missions. It seemed, for the time being, the Mon Calamari and the Jedi would assume a much closer diplomatic presence.

/exit thread

(Ooc: sorry to cut this short everyone! Really lost direction and stalled, but wanted to have an official response from Mon Cala on the books)

@Valen Pelora @llamallove @SlagathorTheUnknown