Private An Interference

[Zemira]

Kiffu. It was a planet the Jedi Knight had never been to before, nor was she familiar with the customs but thankfully she was accompanied by native fellow Jedi Knight and friend, Cas Tynen, who she hoped would be able to provide her with some insight into the culture of the planet in case she accidentally said or did anything out of place. The situation resembled the one they had first met in when they visited her own home world to protect the Queen Mother. "Anything I shouldn't do or say? Any biases?" She asked as she set foot on the planet from the ship's docking ramp. From what little she knew about the culture, there didn't seem to be any issues but Cas might have been able to provide a more valuable insight.

Interaction with locals would likely be a minimum as they were here on their own quest. While Kiffu authorities had alerted the Jedi to the presence of Sith on the planet, they did not have the means to deal with the Sith themselves so the Jedi would be working largely alone. The initial information they had received led them to the town they were in and from the feeling in the Force, the information was correct. However, they knew little more than that. Naturally, the first place it would be sensible to investigate would be downtown, in any part of town the locals perceived as shady and after a helpful tip from the pilot, Zemira knew how to steer them in the right direction, if Cas already didn't.

"I like this place." She mused as they walked in the direction she had been given, looking around as she did. The pair of Knights had recently become acquainted and spent some time together at the Temple following their previous mission, though the Hapan was unsure why. She had never bonded with any of the Knights she had previously been on missions with, though granted many were much older than her which was somewhat more difficult. Yet for some reason she seemed content with Cas, enough so that the usually independent Knight now enjoyed his company on missions and was comfortable making conversation with him.

Given the lack of knowledge they had on the situation, Zemira deemed it wise that the pair stay together for now despite being able to cover more ground if they were to split up. They didn't yet know how many Sith were here and if it was a master and apprentice then it could prove fatal for a lone Jedi Knight. As they neared downtown, the steady stream of people grew slower and slower until the streets were practically empty aside from a man eyeing them up from an alleyway before scuttling away into the darkness. The sense of change in the Force was certainly stronger here and no doubt any Sith would feel their presence too, it just depended who found who first.

Cadere

 

[Cadere]

It had been five years. Five years since he ran away from home and four years since he'd joined the Silver Jedi - Cas knew this day was coming but had hoped he'd be prepared. Unfortunately, Cas knew that he'd never truly be prepared for the inevitable reunion with his clan... his sister. She was a Guardian now, or so he had heard, at least she'd made their parents proud. In fact, it was Ciara herself who contacted the Concord and specifically requested Cas' assistance in the matter.

The matter being Sith presence on his home planet. Deep in thought, an aroma of nervousness surrounded Cas, not because of the Sith but because of being home - a nervousness Zemira would easily sense. He gave her a delayed answer as the Hapan's question barely registered until a few seconds after "No biases - Kiffar don't have sticks up their butts as much as you Hapans do." he dryly quipped, although, he glanced around the area and gestured toward the lightening rods scattered around the planet's arid surface "The electrical storms are fun though. Means Kiffu and Kiffex are orbiting close together at the moment." Cas enlightened her as they stepped off the docking ramp.

As the pair of Jedi Knights wandered to a town from information given to them by the pilot. He was, uncharacteristically silent, for the majority of the walk - still deep in thought. The silence was finally broken when Zemira made a comment about her taking a liking to the area "That makes one of us." Cas said, scoffing. Despite his anxiety being at an all-time high, he was glad that Zemira was here with him, though they didn't agree on everything Cas appreciated her company any time.

When the surrounding area began to grow more and more desolate, Cas also felt the shift within the Force. "Thanks, Ciara. Call me here and give me nothing to go on." he cursed to himself, shaking his head in annoyance. Catching the eye of the man who was staring both of them down, Cas' eyes and brows narrowed as the man scuttled off into the alley way. "Thinking what I'm thinking?" he asked, casting Zemira a sidelong glance, flipping the hood of his cloak over his head Cas made his way toward the alley way hoping his Hapan ally was in tow. As they entered the alley way, they would see the man disappear as he had just turned the corner to the left.

Picking up speed, Cas reached the end of the alley only to turn to his left and find the man waiting for him with a blaster aimed toward him. Raising his hands, Cas smiled slightly, showing his teeth "Is this how you greet everyone?" he quipped - the man standing in front of them had a black qukuuf on his right cheek although he didn't recognise it which probably meant the man was from a lesser clan. However, it wasn't mutual, as the Kiffar seemed to recognise Cas' qukuuf "Back off, Tynen. I've done nothing wrong and I don't need any Guardian heat on me right now!" he demanded with a gruff tone.

This really wasn't off to a good start if people were recognising him by his clan's markings already.

Zemira

 

[Zemira]

Her lack of knowledge was substituted by her fellow Knight's ties to the planet, though she didn't know what kind of relationship he had with his home planet or his family that lived there. Still, it seemed like he had a good enough relationship with his sister to warrant her calling on him for help. Zemira had revealed little information on the location of her family. It was likely she had cousins on Hapes but she rarely surrendered the location of her father, her only known living relative, and for a good reason too - she didn't want to receive any prejudice for being the daughter of a convicted smuggler.

"Hey!" She interjected and gave him a light slap on the arm. Being raised by her father meant she was spared much of the sexism culture of Hapes but she had witnessed it through her father's behaviour towards women which he struggled to outgrow. "Oh... Interesting." She replied thoughtfully as she was directed to look at the lightning rods. The planet wasn't much but it was interesting. "Sure it's not aesthetically pleasing but it has character." She expanded on her reason for making her statement.

"She's not trained in the Force, is she? I don't think she could-" She stopped as a sudden movement caught her eye. She followed Cas, swiftly and arrived a few moment later to find someone threatening her ally. Gifted with diplomacy, she hoped she would be able to diffuse the situation before it got out of hand. While arguably his statement about having done nothing wrong was suspect, they had bigger things to deal with than what she assumed was a petty criminal and it was not the Jedi's job to apprehend criminals in lieu of local law enforcement.

"Sir..." She approached and stood beside Cas. "We're not with the Guardians. We're Jedi and we have business here but it is not with you. Please leave in peace." She hoped to reassure the man that they weren't out to get him arrested in the aim that it would diffuse the situation. She wondered how influential, or infamous, Cas' clan was for him to be recognised so soon. Only time would tell.

Cadere

 

[Cadere]

Cas let out a light chuckle when she playfully slapped his arm before smiling and shaking his head at Zemira's comment on Kiffu having "character". That was definitely one way of putting it, Cas on the other hand was quite indifferent to his home planet. Though, Cas did admire that the Hapan happened to find the positive in most things, something the two had in common and one of the many reasons he liked Zemira.

The Kiffar Jedi still had his arms raised when his partner stepped in to diffuse the tension, casting her a sideways glance, he smirked at her as she did so. After a few moments, the Kiffar lowered his blaster before hiding it in his jacket and turning to scurry off, lowering his arms Cas folded them and turned his head to face Zemira "Ever the diplomat aren't you?" he quipped. Remembering that the Hapan Knight had actually asked him a question regarding his twin sister earlier before he went to follow the shady Kiffar, Cas would answer accordingly "Oh, my sister... uhh, she's not trained no. 1 in a hundred Kiffar can can use Psychometry, she was one of the lucky ones, so I imagine she at least has training in that. Mom and Dad's pride and joy she was, not to mention the rest of the clan's." he revealed, rolling his eyes after to display his annoyance.

Then a familiar voice was heard from the distance "Oh, don't pout baby brother." the feminine voice called out. "Ciara..." the younger twin muttered before turning to face the direction of where the voice originated. Emerging from the shadows of another alleyway, fully clad in Guardian armor and with a smug smirk on her face, Ciara made her way over to the two Jedi. Rolling his eyes again, she finally stopped in front of Cas "Also, that guy you just let go? He was a suspect involving the Sith's presence here, I was tracking him to see what intel he had." Ciara revealed, rather patronisingly, before turning to face Zemira "Ciara Tynen, and you are... another Jedi. Nice to meet you." she introduced herself as her eyes dropped down to notice Zemira's lightsaber, subsequently Ciara held her hand out for Zemira to shake.

"Why are you here, Ciara? We can handle this. Don't you have any important Guardian business to take care of?" Cas asked in an annoyed tone "Sith on Kiffar is important Guardian business, Cas." she responded with equal annoyance. It had been five years, but the tension between the twins were still at an all-time high and poor Zemira? She'd be caught right in the middle of it.

Zemira

 

[Zemira]

Zemira shrugged and gave a smile that indicated a small sense of smugness. Though she wasn't a naturally arrogant person, she had her moments of pride. "Not everyone is unreasonable." She replied. Generally, she was relatively skilled at maintaining calmness in a stressful situations and mediating between groups... at least up until Sith were involved, at which point her emotions sometimes got the better of her.

"Oh, right." She replied, seeing it as reasonable not to push him further on what seemed to be a sore topic. It seemed any effort to maintain neutrality on the matter would be thwarted by his sister's sudden appearance. The Knight turned to face the direction of the voice and came face to face with a woman with an identical striking blue tattoo to Cas.

"Oh..." Zemira said quietly, turning her gaze to the ground awkwardly for a moment before Ciara's attention was on her and she raised her gaze to meet the Kiffar's. "Zemira." She reponded as she took the Guardian's hand in a handshake. "Nice to meet you, Ciara." She offered a small smile. While she knew it was wrong to judge someone pre-emptively, the Jedi did not have the best first impression of the Kiffar but she was not unreasonable and was willing to challenge such perceptions.

The tension between the pair was evident and given her familiarity with Cas she wanted to take her companion's side but knew that neutrality was the best course of action and would hopefully allow for them to keep the peace unless one of them seriously acted out. "In any case, another pair of hands wouldn't hurt." She told Ciara. "So what do you know so far?" She asked.

Cadere

 

[Cadere]

Don't encourage her! Cas thought to himself, shooting her a knowing harsh glare but before the Kiffar could protest further it was too late. Ciara quickly spoke up, innately knowing her brother would argue "Good to hear, Zemira. Clearly you're the brains of this duo." her teal eyes drifting over to Cas as she flashed him a smug smirk.

Folding her arms, she met Zemira with a serious look "Honestly, we don't know all that much. We don't know why they're here but numerous reports from the locals state they've spotted some shady looking figures around the town--" "--So, they can be anything. Shady doesn't mean Sith." the younger twin quickly interjected prompting Ciara to glare daggers at Cas "If you'd let me finish, Cassalius, I was getting to it--" his full name made him cringe, clenching his jaw and glancing away in contempt "-- Our most recent report was someone seeing these shady folks carrying a crimson lightsaber. Unless you Jedi have changed your policies, they were Sith, and that's when I sent for aid." Ciara finally concluded, explaining the situation to Zemira.

"Okay, so there are Sith here. Or at least Dark Jedi. They were seen in this area?" Cas asked with Ciara nodding as confirmation. As much as Cas hated to admit it, Ciara was right... as per karkin' usual, and right now their best lead was probably the guy they'd let go earlier. Producing a loud and annoyed grown, Cas threw his head upward before sighing "Okay, fine fine! We'll look for that guy with the black qukuuf." Ciara smirked at her younger brother before patronisingly ruffling his dreads "Follow me, I know where we can start looking." she said as she walked ahead of the two, taking the lead.

Falling back, Cas matched pace with Zemira with a glum expression. Leaning toward her, he whispered ever so quietly "You see why I don't talk about my family? They're insufferable, and not in an endearing way." Cas cast a cautious look at Ciara to make sure she couldn't hear, when the coast was clear he continued "I almost envy you, Zem, family's overrated. Seriously."

Zemira

 

[Zemira]

Despite vowing to not judge Ciara too hastily, the Knight was still not impressed with her attitude towards Cas but put it down to the fact they were siblings and the familiarity that came along with it. Though she knew the rivalry Cas had introduced her to didn't seem to be the standard friendly sibling rivalry but rather seemed to be tinged with bitterness which she expected was due to Ciara being regarded in higher esteem by their parents.

Zemira didn't interrupt as the two bickered, instead trying to take in all the useful information she could. However, she brought her hand up to her mouth to stifle a snicker at the mention of Cas' full name which apparently irritated him. She didn't intend to offend but her reaction was almost instinctive. The continuing attitude from Ciara was still not improving Zemira's impression of the Kiffar but she would wait and see the true testament of her attitude when she addressed the stranger rather than her brother.

The tension between the pair was a little awkward to witness but thankfully Ciara took the lead, leaving the two Jedi following in her trail. Her gaze turned to Cas to try and gage his emotions from his expression before she would search them through the Force. His following words left little unknown though. She didn't want to reply in case Ciara overheard her, she nodded to show understanding at his plight. However, his following comment prompted a frown from the Jedi.

"At least you can see your family." She whispered harshly, her tone and expression indicating disapproval, though now was not the time to get into the matter, lest Ciara overheard and caught onto their topic of conversation. The Jedi had given her purpose but in doing so had separated her from someone who was like a sister to her as a child and she hadn't been able to find her since while her father was in prison for an untold number of years. She had had her fair share of family arguments but she would never wish the separation she had on anyone and was irritated how flippant Cas was with his family, despite their differences.

Cadere

 

[Cadere]

If there was any moment Cas admitted to having his foot jammed into his mouth, it would be right now. It was a well-known fact that the young Jedi Knight had a tendency to speak his mind before thinking about the repurcussions and, usually, it didn't bother him in doing so. But over the short time of getting to know Zemira and of her past, he grew to care for her and now genuinley felt guilty over what he said and it showed in his expression as it softened and his lips drooped into a frown.

"Oh crap... I'm sorry... I didn't--" truth is, what else could he say other than he was sorry? Choosing to leave it there, Cas simply repeated "I'm sorry." whispering it softly. Not wanting to bother her, Cas turned his head forward and stayed silent for the meantime. Ciara, catching wind, turned her head slightly and raised a suspicious eyebrow "Everything all right?" she asked. Glancing sideways, away from Zemira, a guilty Cas simply nodded. Clearing his throat, Cas then spoke up "The guy with the black qukuuf." "Yeah?" "What other information do you have on him?" he asked in a less hostile tone than he usually had with Ciara "His name's Graf Tam, he's from a small clan and a small time crook. Graf's got ties to a lot of gangs and is a known info broker. Also, guy's a complete loser - always getting caught but somehow making bail." Ciara explained. This prompted Cas to let out a small chuckle "I know the feeling. I keep running into this Duros, arresting him, only to find him somewhere else a week later." "The galaxy's security contractor needs to get fired apparently." Ciara quipped as both the twins snickered in unison, however, their brief moment of bonding would cease.

After a few minutes of walking through the streets of this shady town, the trio would stop in front of a cantina located on the outskirts of the town. Frowning "A cantina? Again?" Cas' tone of voice was completely unimpressed "What?" Ciara asked, clearly puzzled and unaware of Cas and Zemira's history with cantinas. Folding her arms, she glanced toward the beaming sign, the light's intensity forced you to squint, "Welp, Graf frquents here... a lot. And if we can't find him, I'm sure someone knows where he is."

Ciara led the Jedi Knights inside, the cantina was filled with patrons with a band playing upbeat music in the corner of the area, meanwhile a few dancers were on display directly in the centre dancing away on a circular podium. "Well?" Ciara said over the music, glancing at her sideways and with a puzzled look "Well what?" Cas asked. Waving her fingers, she looked at both Jedi "Do your Force thing, can't you find the guy?" she asked with a look of certainty. That wasn't how the Force worked. Rolling his eyes, Cas cast a glance at Zemira.

Zemira

 

[Zemira]

The Jedi Knight was irritated and upset but quick to forgive. She knew Cas hadn't meant to upset her and his words came from a moment of ignorance but his apology displayed his remorse and she gave a small nod to indicate she accepted it. The feelings from the brief tension wouldn't just melt away in an instant but in time they would and with his apology she was able to suppress such feelings in order to move past the situation.

"Yeah." Zemira replied when Cas fell silent, her tone not indicating any feelings of upset. She listened to Ciara as she explained the situation but otherwise remained silent as the outsider of the three. She smiled in amusement at Cas' story of his adversary, an indication she had forgiven him for his earlier comment.

When they stopped outside a cantina, Zemira shook her head and smiled. "We have to stop going to cantinas under these circumstances, Cas." She joked, glancing towards her companion to see his reaction before they entered. Once inside, she glanced around the faces in the room, trying to establish where the best opportunities would be. She wasn't listening to the twins as they discussed the matter, instead forming her own plan in her head.

Without informing Cas of her idea, she simply held her lightsaber out to him covertly at her side and stated "Take this" before walking away from the pair. It didn't help to dress like Jedi when looking for a suspected Sith so she donned more civilian clothes, practical but not particularly noteworthy. As she approached a table in the corner, she pulled the hair tie from her hair and pulled her hair free from the braid which she loosened with her fingers.

The Hapan greeted the men at the table with a warm smile, a couple of who returned it, though one looked at the woman with suspicion. "Is this seat taken?" She asked, indicating to a stool at the end of the booth. The men shook their heads and one gestured that he was offering it to her so she took the seat. "Do any of you lovely gentlemen know Graf Tam?" She asked, prompting the men to exchange glances. "I do." The man beside her replied.

"Do you happen to know where he is? He owes me some money you see and I can't find him." She told him before adding. "I'd be ever so grateful." She gave him a coy smile and gently placed her hand on his arm which he looked down at and then back at her face. "There might be something in it for you." She gave a final attempt at trying to persuade him which seemed to work. "He should be here any minute." He replied, sharing her smile. She removed her hand and wrote down some contact details to play the part. "Call me." She slid the details over to him and rose from her seat to join Cas and Ciara again. "I am not responsible for any messages you get from that man." She told Cas, indicating she had given him Cas' contact details rather than her own which made her smile smugly.

"Oh yeah, he said Graf should be here any minute." She added.

Cadere

 

[Cadere]

Zemira's remark earned her a subtle smirk from Cas before following it up with a playful wink. Her joke eased the Kiffar for two reasons, one being that after the time they'd spent together in recent weeks she'd obviously grown more comfortable to joke around with him more. The other being, that she'd forgiven him... at least enough to make humorous remarks with him.

Inside the cantina, the twins continued their quiet debate "--So, you can't sense things?" Ciara asked, irritated but with a small genuine hint of curiosity. "No. We can sense people, but we aren't bloodhounds." Cas explained, ready to contest Ciara, only for Zemira to cut in and hand him her lightsaber "I appreciate the gesture, but I can't just--" and before the Jedi could finish his quip, the beautiful Hapan was gone. Frowning, he muttered to himself "Could at least let me finish my quip."

Keeping her lightsaber in hand, Cas and Ciara remained near the entrance to the cantina. Watching as Zemira did... whatever she was doing. Folding her arms, Ciara her younger brother a sideways glance "Well?" "Well what?" Cas quickly responded, eyes focused on Zemira. "You two a thing or what?" queried Ciara with a hint of teasing. Cas' heartbeat immediately elevated and the tip of his ears burned "What? No. No, no. We're just friends." the pitch of his voice elevated when he answered. "Awh, your voice broke. You like her." the elder twin accused, the mocking tone in her voice growing. But wait, did he? Despite being an emotional person, Cas had trouble getting in touch with his more intimate feelings.

Seeing Zemira approach, his guard immediately went up and the Kiffar's youthful face steeled. Gritting his teeth, he turned to his Ciara and growled "Shut up, Ciara. I don't like her." Cas argued trying to keep quiet as the Hapan approached. Once she arrived, Cas returned her lightsaber to her "What do you mean?" gaze drifting toward the table she was previously at, spotting the man eyeing down Zemira and practically burning a hole through her close "Zemira. You didn't." Cas pleaded, expression stern. His eye twitched when he heard the slight chittering coming from his sister.

"Any minute? We'd better assume positions then." Cas proposed, casting glances at both Zemira and Ciara "I'll be on standby outside the back. If Graf sees my face, he's booking it." sending her an understanding nod, Cas acknowledged what Ciara had to say. With that, she made her way out into the back leaving the two Jedi alone. "Well, I'd say work your alluring Hapan charm on Graf but he'd catch on - seeing as he saw you earlier. You wanna split up or stick together?" Regardless of her decision, Cas would find an unoccupied table conveniently located in a dark corner and sit, waiting for Graf. Lo and behold, after a few minutes, Zemira was right.

Arriving and looking as sketchy as his reputation, Graf glanced around the room looking nervous before wandering over to an unoccupied table. A few more moments passed and Graf remained seated, moving all scatty and still seemingly nervous, growing impatient Cas readied to make his move but what came through the cantina completely caught him off-guard. A hooded figure, clad in black robes entered, but not only that a small charge of the Dark side hit him - feeling a cold but uncomfortable electrifying buzzing sensation ripple through his skin. Cas glanced at Zemira, wondering how she'd react - aware of her feelings for Sith.

Zemira

 

[Zemira]

Zemira flashed Cas and amused smile and shrugged before looking over her shoulder and giving a playful wave to the man she just exchanged with who returned the gesture but they still had a job to do so she reverted back into her semi-serious Jedi self after their brief moment of fun. It wasn't often she used her charm to her advantage, embarrassed to do so in the presence of older, more experienced Jedi lest they look down on her but she felt comfortable enough with Cas for him not to judge her too critically.

She considered the ways in which they could confront Graf but opted to stay with Cas to assess the situation first. "I'll stick with you for now." She replied, following Cas to an empty table where she took a seat and began braiding her hair again to keep it out of her face, seemingly relaxed and unbothered with what they were about to face. The Jedi raised her gaze to the door when she heard someone enter and flicked the braid behind her head. She watched as Graf entered and followed him with her gaze until a new entry to the cantina called to her attention.

The change in the Force was unmistakable and unsettling. She watched the person who was clearly responsible with a gaze tinged with bitterness. As a Padawan, nearing her trials, her Master had been slaughtered at the hands of a Sith which ignited a deep-rooted hatred within her that could rarely be reasoned with. Her time as a Jedi had taught her to regulate her emotions better but the bitterness was always present. They couldn't very well apprehend him in the middle of a crowded cantina and she wasn't so impulsive as to do something as reasonable as that so she watched him closely as she tried to think of a plan.

Her eyes followed his arm as it shifted, slipping down to his wrist momentarily so she caught a glance of the distinctive tattoo on the back of his hand. Her heart began to race as she recognised the Sith as the apprentice of the man who murdered her Master. The pair, both apprentices in their respective Orders at the time, had duelled five years prior and he had taunted her about her Master's death at the hands of his Master. The Sith had taken advantage of her Master's kind nature and lured them into a trap for which he paid the price.

The Hapan needed a plan and quick but they were in a bit of a situation as Graf complicated the matter but she didn't care about him. He may have had a blaster but he was a non-issue. "I'm going outside." She calmly informed Cas before raising from her seat and approaching the door, making eye contact with the Sith as she passed, allowing him to see her face and feel her Force alignment.

Cadere

 

[Cadere]

In the brief few minutes of downtime the two Jedi would have, Cas took the time to engage in some self evaluation. That self evaluation being if he really did harbor feelings for the Hapan sat opposite him. Cas gazed upon her, taking in her looks and mesmerising features - smiling slightly at her as he did so. The thought had never occured to him until now, were they genuine feelings or was it surface level attraction? His smile only grew when he thought about the things he liked about Zemira - her subtle humor, the way she was able to switch into a 'professional' mode, the way she spoke and--

Oh no...

Maybe Ciara was right. Why did she have to be right? he thought. Evaluating the situation a bit more, maybe it was simply a crush? In Cas' defense, it wasn't hard for him to crush on someone seeing as the Kiffar was a Jedi that struggled with containing his emotions. Regardless, his soul-searching would have to wait once he noticed the Sith enter the cantina.

Cas' eyebrow raised when Zemira announced she'd be heading outside - "Um, we have a situation right here-- Okay, she's still leaving." he continued speaking, even as Zemira walked away. Watching her movements, he saw her meet eyes with the Sith as well as felt a sudden wave of a positive charge within the Force - it was Zemira. It didn't take long for Cas to realise the Hapan was baiting the Sith. Eyes darting to the Sith, he noticed his body twitch as he glared at Zemira exiting the cantina. The dark figure waited a few moments before shooting up from his chair and heading toward the exit. Looking spooked, Graf locked eyes with Cas and immediately moved in the direction of the other exit.

"Kriff." the Knight was in a dilemma, having two choices he could either help Ciara detain Graf or aid Zemira in whatever was about to go down with the Sith. Gritting his teeth, he quickly made his call and closed his eyes, using the Force to create a telepathic mental link between him and Ciara. It wasn't difficult in the slightest, with them both being twins as well as Force-sensitive, they already had a natural connection within the currents of the Force. Like twin conductors within the Cosmic Force. "Ciara. Freak out later, this is Cas. It's a Force thing." he mentally conveyed "Graf's headed your way. I'm going to help Zemira." with that, he disconnected their minds and headed to the exit where both Zemira and the Sith had went.

Zemira

 

[Zemira]

A mixture of emotions swirled around the Knight's mind but what was once calm and playful was beginning to devolve into anger and sorrow. The presence of the Sith who had witnessed her Master's death had dredged the memories of the past that she had tried to remain indifferent to on account of her training which taught her as much but the reminder was now too intrusive to ignore.

Once outside, she purposely led the Sith to a more secluded area while staying out of sight, allowing him only to follow her Force signature. When suitably far enough away from open public space, she jumped down from the building she had used to traverse the landscape and landed opposite the Sith who had followed her there. No lightsabers were drawn yet but tensions would soon arise.

The Jedi had never been an overly obedient one and while it had caused clashes with her master in the past, he had been the one she was most likely to listen to. The one the troubled teen had respected the most. Now he was gone and she was left with her own judgement and a lack of guidance.

The man that stood before her was a reminder of what she had lost and his taunting still rang in her ears. She had had a small victory in taking his hand in a duel but his Master had taken so much more from her.

"Oh how I longed for this day. To finish what was started." The man said as he slipped the hilt of the crimson blade into his hand, prompting the Jedi to follow suit. "You and me both." She replied before leaping into action, igniting her lightsaber and bringing the blade towards his torso powerfully with both hands. As expected, it was met with resistance and was the opening attack in what she expected to be a lengthy duel.

It was followed by a quick succession of short blows with many of the offending attacks being initiated by her while the Sith sought to defend against the Jedi's relentless, aggressive attacks. Before long, her concentration began to break down, allowing for her opponent to become less defensive and more offensive. There was a notable difference in both since they had last duelled but she felt the most profound difference was within him.

Eventually, he began to advance, pressing her back closer towards the wall and cornering her. Once in a blade lock, he took the opportunity to taunt her again. "Send your Master my regards." He told her cruelly before adding coolly. "And mine."

Cadere

 

[Cadere]

Bursting through the door and outside the cantina, glancing around, Cas realised both Zemira and the Sith were nowhere to be seen. Closing his eyes, he focused on any nearby strong signatures within the Force, hoping the two hadn't trailed too far. Locking onto something, he felt a sudden surge within the Force and felt it come from a place nearby - it had to be the two. Removing his lightsaber from his belt, Cas darted off in their direction.

Man, if they've snuck off to make out in some kind of alley way... I'mma lose it! he briefly thought, albeit jokingly, to himself. Arriving in a deserted street, Cas witnessed the two engaged in a duel a bit in the distance. It was heated. Cas could sense Zemira's fury and disdain from here, but it was... personal? Who was this guy? An ex-boyfriend that turned Sith? Did he kill her pet? Halfway down the street, the Jedi Knight saw two engaged in a blade lock, Zemira pinned against a wall, and was close enough to hear

"Send your Master my regards. And mine."

Great. He could make an entrance with a well-timed quip. Leaping into the air and transitioning into a front flip, Cas once again began his descent with his left boot out. Directly aimed for the Sith's head. "Geeeeeez, talk about an ego!" he hollered, his boot landing and connecting firmly with the Sith's face. Before the force of the kick knocked the Dark sider back however, the Jedi Knight used his momentum to propel himself backward and into a backflip before landing into a crouch onto the ground. "sEnD yOuR mAsTeR mY rEgaRdS. News flash, tall dark and brooding you're supposed to talk smack after you win. Of course, that doesn't apply to me because I always win!" Cas quipped, before closing the gap between him and Zemira.

Placing a gentle hand over her arm, his face met hers with concern "You okay?" Cas whispered before returning his attention to the Sith Lord. Twirling his lightsaber, Cas continued his quip assault as the Sith rubbed his head struggling to stand up "Oh, and please get some new material. Literally every Sith I meet goes with the brooding demeanour. It's old, it's boring, please be original." Cas noticed that this seemed to be a personal bout between Zemira and the Sith. So, he decided to keep an eye on her and make sure she didn't do anything rash, like he would if he were in her situation "He's all yours. I've got your back." Cas assured her, shooting her a soft but playful smile.

Zemira

 

[Zemira]

The reassuring presence of another Knight, and one she was familiar with at that, aided in the grounding of her emotions. That along with Cas' gentle voice was enough to neutralise any negative thoughts. She nodded in response but her expression remained placid. They were taught to dampen their emotions, not hone them, and now it was more important than ever to do so. If her emotions got the better of her then her opponent would also.

The Sith was keen to finish what was started and marched towards the Jedi purposefully, on the offence. Zemira was ready to meet his blade and provide a counter attack, all while maintaining the sense of peace she had achieved moments before. She refused to ruminate on past demons and focused on the reality of the battle - her master wouldn't have had it any other way.

The duel was demanding but wouldn't have looked so to the untrained eye as the graceful moves of Makashi flowed seamlessly into one another. Zemira maintained her ground this time and even advanced momentarily. For a while, it seemed to stagnate with neither side growing closer to a victory but as the battle prolonged, the Sith's frustrating rose so the Jedi maintained her defence and hoped to have an edge with her endurance.

Sure enough, her opponent acted brashly. It was only a split second but Zemira had been ready for it and quickly sliced upwards through the exposed wrist of the cybernetic hand she had removed years before and then calmly drew his fallen blade into her hand with the Force and deactivated both sabers. "Shall we schedule this in again in about 5 years time?" She asked mockingly but the Sith remained silent with a look of contempt.

She turned back to Cas, still with a blank look that masked feelings of sadness at the reminder of the battle that had ended her master's life. "Do you want to call your sister?" She asked, indicating nothing to be wrong.

Cadere

 

[Cadere]

As promised, Cas kept to his word and hung back as Zemira dealt with her business. Protectfully watching his companion like a hawk-bat while pacing like a hyenax, ready to jump in and help whenever she needed it. Cas periodically twirled his lightsaber, watching Zemira and the Sith, there was only two individuals who were skilled enough with a lightsaber to impress the Jedi Knight - Sakadi Sinvala and Darth Insatious. The more he watched the Hapan, the more she impressed him.

Zemira moved with precision and grace, the way she implored Makashi was nothing short of masterful. The Force ebbed from her, rippling like an electromagnetic pulse, despite sensing her negative emotions, Zemira impressively layered them with focus and serenity. So much so that the negativity within her was barely a dimming light. Cas could not help but watch her in awe until... it was eventually over.

Witnessing Zemira's competent besting over the Sith caused Cas' lips to curl into a broad smile. Wandering over to the Hapan and defeated Sith, he snickered at her little quip and raised his voice slightly for her to hear him "Heh, you made another funny. You're on a roll today." Cas teased, accidentally entrapping himself once he laid eyes on the Hapan after she turned to face him. Her beauty encapulated him, forcing him to stare at her, mouth agape and starry-eyed for a few moments. Damn Hapans and their damn good looks. He snapped out of it once she mentioned Ciara "Right. My sister." Cas shook his head slightly and rubbed the back of his neck.

Speaking into his wrist com, Cas hailed Ciara ::Ciara? You manage to grab the purp?:: it took a few seconds but she responded ::You kiddin' me? I apprehended this loser the moment he stepped out the back door. I'm at headquarters, where are you?:: she asked ::We're in a street. Somewhere. Send me your coordinates, we'll meet you." it would take a moment for Ciara to send her location, Cas decided to use this opportunity. He glanced at Zemira, scanning her with his brown eyes inquisitvely, the Kiffar reached out to her through the Force - trying to get an idea of what she was going through.

Her expression and tone conveyed indifference, but as Jedi and Force users they both knew that wasn't really the case and that it wouldn't take long for Cas to pick up on it. "So, I'm gonna address the rancor in the room. You're obviously not okay. I get that you hate Sith but this was different... personal. What was this all about? And don't try to say that cute emotionless look you've got is just your resting face." he quipped, hoping to take some of the edge off this obviously heavy situation. In the meantime, whether she chose to speak or keep her cards to her chest, Cas approached the Sith and hoisted him to his feet, placing a palm on his back while using the other to keep hold of his bicep. As a safety measure, Cas kicked the Sith's lightsaber over to Zemira

Zemira

 

[Zemira]

The humour had been dry and she was far from the mood to laugh at such a quip that was intended to be mocking so she offered a plain "Yeah" to her companion. Her gaze searched his as he was seemingly fascinated by her which she was unamused by due to her long-standing history of receiving such looks, though she refrained from rolling her eyes.

Her gaze scanned the Sith they apprehended. He no longer looked smug but it didn't do much to ease her feelings of anger and sadness that she had been suppressing. She knew Cas wasn't stupid enough to let her off with the situation that had just occurred so she was ready to face the expected following questions.

She would've smiled had the situation not been so uncomfortable and dire but instead she nodded to acknowledge his judgement had been correct. "His master killed my master and I took his hand when we were apprentices." She informed Cas while searching for the Sith's gaze, though he avoided.

For a long time, she had considered whether to forgive the person who had killed her master, not for his benefit but for her own. The anger and pain it had caused her would be more to his benefit than her own and she had to consider the wishes of her master. With those thoughts in mind, she made the painful but appropriate decision to release herself from the negativity that had been holding her back.

"But I forgive you both." She told him, showing no emotional signs that would suggest otherwise, nor a facial expression that would suggest dishonesty. It was difficult but she knew she was the bigger person in the scenario and this outcome would've left her master more proud of her than seeking vengeance and that was all that was important to her.

"Let's get him back to the SJC." She told Cas, solemnly.

Cadere

 

[Cadere]

When Zemira started to explain, he listened to her story with a curious eye - her explanation was short and to the point but ultimately left him with a lot to think about. It made sense as to why Zemira had such a vendetta against the Sith now but what came next was surprising, as well as spoke to the Hapan's character. She forgave the both of them, Cas couldn't help but flash a smile at her. Forgiving your enemies was a noble characteristic, and something he himself had trouble doing, Cas knew he could learn a thing or two from her.

Cas patted the Sith's back with the amount of force that indicated for him to start walking forward. "You heard the woman that just kicked your ass. Move it. Hey, maybe they'll put you next to that loser I caught a few years back." Cas teased, first directing their detainee to Ciara's coordinates. The Kiffar remained silent during the journey, agreeing with himself to give Zemira her space.

Arriving at HQ, Cas and Zemira would be greeted by the other Guardians while they waited to inform Ciara of the news. After a few minutes, Ciara rounded a corridor and came into view, greeting the two Jedi "Hey, lovebirds. I'm guessing this is the Sith you caught?" Cas shot Zemira a nervous glance before returning his gaze to Ciara with a scowl. Ignoring her comment, he went straight to answering her question "It's just a courtesy call, we just wanted to let you know your Sith problem is solved. So... nice seeing you again, but we're outta here." the Jedi stated before turning to leave.

"Wait." Ciara called out, Cas stopped to turn and face his sister. She was biting her lip slightly and interlacing her fingers, resting her hands behind her back "It was good to see you, Cassie. Stay in touch, yeah?" she requested with a genuine tone, and flashing Cas a hint of a smile, he stopped for a moment, his brown eyes displaying contemplation before he returned a soft smile "Yeah, sure." Cas responded before exiting the Guardian headquarters.

Stepping outside he turned to Zemira and cast her a smile, ignoring the presence of the Sith, Cas relaxed a hand on the back of his neck "So, like... you wanna hangout sometime? In a scenario that doesn't involve lightsabers?" he suggested.

Zemira