Are all Jedi this reckless? Just the good ones…

[Corvus Raaf]

Sera was a breath of fresh air. She regularly said what Corvus wanted to say but chose not to. Out of her role, out of her upbringing and also due to her undiminishing respect for authority.

But once, just once, she’d like to say it how she thought it. She’d done it only once. When Connor bad-mouthed a certain person. She hadn’t particularly enjoyed the exchange and so would simply admire from afar when others managed to speak their mind and indulge in a little sarcasm.

A Hutt would have probably blushed at the opulence of the room they were shown to. Corvus was sure if you looked up ‘bling’ in an encyclopaedia there would be a picture of this place.

But she was as polite as ever and bowed before smiling disarmingly and greeting her host. “I am Corvus and this is Sera. We happened to be in the area and thought we’d pay a visit. You know, lend a hand. Check things out. Usual Jedi stuff.”

[member="Seraphina Shel'tah"]

 

[Seraphina Shel'tah]

"Check...Things out?" The man's voice echoed in the vast expanse of the throne room. His tone sounded indifferent, almost empty. "We have no use for you Jedi here. Our infrastructure stands, there is no war, unless you bring it with you." Sera bobbed her head slowly, her lips curled towards one another. "I don't think he cares much for us. That seems the norm around here."

Still sitting on the ornate throne, both guards positioned adjacent to either side of him he waved his hand in a shooing manner. "You... Jedi, wherever you go, you bring trouble with you. Take your glowing swords and fancy tricks and leave this world. Your kind are not welcome here."

[member="Corvus Raaf"]

 

[Corvus Raaf]

Only by a small expression did Corvus reveal how annoyed she was at the dismissal. She put out a hand and drew in the Force.

Corvus spoke slowly and clearly, her voice barely above a whisper. "You want to take a coffee break."

The two guards looked at one another. The man on the throne looked dumbfounded, as if unable to quite believe that Corvus had just given them an order.

They dutifully shuffled out of the room, through a side entrance, leaving the Jedi alone with the man.

“That’s better,” Corvus said, smiling. “More cosy. Now, as I was saying,” she spoke as she walked towards the man. “Checking things out. We Jedi love to check things out.”

[member="Seraphina Shel'tah"]

 

[Seraphina Shel'tah]

"You Jedi are nothing but a nuisance. Your little tricks will only get you so far, and I fear you've come to a place where your type are..." He paused for a moment, as if savoring the word. "most unwelcome." Reaching down his finger depressed a button that was attached to the throne, though there was no immediate reaction. "So, tell me, Jedi Corvus. What is it you are" he chuckled to himself. "checking out, here on my world?"

Sera narrowed her eyes. She was certain that whatever was just pressed was anything but good for Corvus and herself, given the demeanor of the man sitting on said throne. Still, she kept her hands away from her sabers for the time being, but gave Corvus a rather concerned look all the same.

"Why the hesitance to speak with us, your highness?"

[member="Corvus Raaf"]

 

[Corvus Raaf]

Corvus smiled and continued to walk towards the man on the throne.

“We are not in Republic space. We have no specific jurisdiction - save general galactic laws. So we provide a nuisance factor only when we uncover wrongdoings that are in contravention with the planet’s own laws. Corruption, theft, embezzlement, racketeering. These are all against the laws of this planet — I’ve checked.”

“So any evidence would be turned over the the appropriate authorities.”

Corvus caught Sera’s glance and nodded a subtle acknowledgement.

If he was worried by this statement, he didn’t show it. Perhaps he underestimated Jedi? Maybe he overestimated his own position? Or it was entirely possible he had an entire army at his disposal.

“I am a busy man. I have no time to waste. You…Jedi…are nothing more than a distraction.”

At this point, a cylinder came from the ceiling and encircled him. At the same time, there was a hissing noise and glancing around gas was seeping in from small holes in the floor.

“I shall enjoy this…but please be quick about dying, I have a meeting to go to.”

[member="Seraphina Shel'tah"]

 

[Seraphina Shel'tah]

Sera let out a rather disappointed sigh. "It's as if I didn't see this coming. They really don't ever learn, do they?" The Twi'lek reached down into her pocket, pulling out the standard A99 Jedi Breathing device and fastening it tightly between her lips. While she wasn't certain as to whether the gas was simply poisonous, or a form of knockout gas, she wasn't interested in finding out for sure either way. Her eyes glanced around the room, looking for a lever, button, or switch that would release the cylinder from around the pair. Nothing immediately stood out, so she'd have to improvise. Perhaps Corvus had a different means of escape, but she had grown rather impatient with niceties since leaving the Order.

With the breather in her mouth she was unable to speak orally, so instead chose telepathy. Her mind outstretched, opened to both Corvus and the man spectating from his golden throne. You will release us, immediately. Do not make me ask again.

The man looked around, confused for a moment, wondering what exactly the ghostly words came from, before piecing together the puzzle and staring rather confidently at the two Jedi in their cage.

"You both will die in that chamber. Your little oxygen mask will last you only so long. You do not frighten me, Jedi."

Sera's nose wrinkled, her lips forming into a rather particular snarl. The woman raised a hand and slapped it on the glass, before forming a point with her index finger directly at the self-proclaimed king. Her eyes then closed, and an invisible hand of energy would find its' way around the throat of that man, lifting him three or four feet from his prior sitting position, constricting his own breathing with enough force to make him immediately begin panicking, swinging his legs as he dangled helplessly.

Release us. Or I will end your life before you extinguish ours. Was she bluffing? Possibly. If he released her from their imprisonment she would relinquish her death grip on the man, otherwise she would happily claim his life before her own was taken. She was entirely disinterested in dying, and was relatively certain he was as well.

[member="Corvus Raaf"]

 

[Corvus Raaf]

The Force was an option, but Corvus was wearing the ankle bracelet that Matsu had given her. One of its wonderful benefits — as well as a body temperature modulator — was a filter. Noxious gases had no ill effect.

So as Sera affixed her breathing device, Corvus simply placed her hands on her hips and gave the man on the throne a very old-fashioned look. One that said, we will have words later.

Of course, there would be a point where there was no more oxygen to breathe and Corvus would have to act…but for now she took the time to think things through.

As she did she heard Sera having her own words with the man — before taking matters into her own hands and his throat! The man flapped and panicked and finally a flailing hand flicked a switch in the arm of the throne and he was able to reverse the gas and the chamber.

Corvus folded her arms now. This man was due a very stern talking to…but she figured Sera was going to have more success. But she also believed that Sera’s effectiveness was amplified by contrast.

Finally the gas had cleared and a rather sweaty man looked at them both.

“Never underestimate the Force,” Corvus said quietly. Still no emotion in her voice. “Or a Jedi which, in the scheme of things, amounts to the same. It is, to paraphrase an old Jedi Master, a loosing proposition.”

“So, confess all, we’ll hand you over to the authorities and we will be on our way. Or,” she said as she read the cynicism written late across his face, “Sera here will persuade you. We’re Jedi. It’s all about choice.” And she smiled sweetly.

[member="Seraphina Shel'tah"]

 

[Seraphina Shel'tah]

Spoiler

So sorry this took forever!

The man cast a darkened scowl towards Corvus and her companion. "I am the overseer of this planet you have stepped foot on. I AM the authority here. Who exactly, will you turn me over to, then? But since you are so keen on sticking your Jedi noses where it doesn't belong, I'll enlighten you a bit. You see, cargo and other freighters that pass through our orbit are considered in violation of our sovereign space and are therefore detained, and confiscated. What was once yours, is now mine. Let this be a lesson to the Galactic Republic in the future."

He lifted a small holoprojector from his palm and displayed the ship and its' cargo that the two had observed earlier being unloaded into transport shuttles and hauled away. "Your Republic does not protect us in times of turmoil, it does not represent our voice in your senate, and does not dictate the will or well being of our world. The ship, and its' contents belong to us now. Two Jedi will not so easily sway the politics of my government."

[member="Corvus Raaf"]

 

[Corvus Raaf]

Corvus nodded, as if in total agreement. “Much of what you say is true. You hold a position of authority. Of trust. A position granted to you by the people. Yes, I have checked your constitution. You talk of turning you over to someone? I simply mean we will present our evidence to the judiciary. The courts and the people will decide your fate.”

“You are entirely correct. The Republic does not have any say over the running of this planet. But it was a Republic ship that was downed and its cargo stolen. As such, we are granted certain rights of investigation.”

“And your constitution makes no reference to the legality of seizing a Republic ship, let alone stealing its contents. But as you say, this is not necessarily a Republic matter. It will make representation at the court case, but ultimately it is the law of this land that shall prevail. And, more importantly, the will of its people.”

“Look around you, the discontent should be apparent — unless you are now so removed from the populace that you no longer hear them.”

“No individual is above any government. As we speak, a dossier is being placed with the supreme court of this planet. And a Republic emissary is contacting them, to ensure that justice isn’t just done — but seen to be done. You see, we are but humble Jedi. But our words are listened to. It’s not all about lightsabers and the Force you know. Our integrity is a formidable part of our arsenal when it comes to preserving the peace.”

She looked at Sera calmly. Her voice still hadn't raised much above a whisper, yet it carried the room. “Anything to add?”

[member="Seraphina Shel'tah"]

 

[Seraphina Shel'tah]

Sera stood quietly, hands clasped behind her back with a distinct smile on her face. Corvus was much for tactful and graceful in her choice and delivery of words. She was certain that the woman could fall entire planets with the right selection of words. Of course, that wasn't something that would likely ever happen, though it was amusing to think about.

"Nope." She said finally when her friend asked if the Twi'lek had anything further to add. "You covered the whole kit and caboodle I think."

Twisting her head back to the man still seated on his throne the Jedi smiled a rather sarcastic smile. "So, if you wouldn't mind, your highness,stepping down off that throne and following us? That would be great."

Sera was always the one to put forth the sass during talks. This was no different. She had a different approach when it came to dealing with arrogant fools, was it better or worse? That could be considered a matter of opinion, though the look on the man's face a ways away was one of complete contempt for her.

[member="Corvus Raaf"]

 

[Corvus Raaf]

The man looked in two minds. A few glances to his right told him he wasn’t going to receive any back-up but he clearly wasn’t keen on simply giving himself up.

“Listen girls,” she said, his tone now oilier than a used speeder salesman’s hair. “I’m sure we can cut a deal. How much, eh? Credits?” He glanced at Sera. “A new ship perhaps?”

His face struggled to keep up the pretence that he’d be successful. His limited knowledge of Jedi gave him an element of false hope — but the fact he gave up so quickly suggested their silence spoke volumes.

“OK. Not money. Not to turn a blind eye. But to let me leave? They’ll lynch me. And you wouldn’t want that on your Jedi conscience, would you? Give me a five minute head start? What do you say?”

[member="Seraphina Shel'tah"]

 

[Seraphina Shel'tah]

The Byzantine Jedi couldn't hold back the abundance of laughter within her. She nearly buckled her knees and keeled over with such exuberant giggling.

Moments would pass until she was able to finally collect herself. "You...You're trying to bribe Jedi?" She looked over at Corvus, her friend might have found her emotions, but she was still leagues behind Sera's openness with respect to her feelings. "Are you hearing this guy?" She shook her head and smiled. "You would have better luck trying to tame a rancor, my friend."

Sera rubbed the tears of joy away from her greenish pupils. "No, no...You'll be subject to the laws of your land, just as you say. We Jedi do not make the laws, remember? This is not our world, and not one of the Republic. You will be given the same trial and due process that is the norm here."

The man however, did not seem to find the situation anywhere near as funny as Seraphina.

[member="Corvus Raaf"]

 

[Corvus Raaf]

Corvus could not help the corner of her mouth turning up. The situation was humorous, but Sera's reaction was infectious. At least from this side of the argument. Corvus noted the man was less able to find the funny side of things.

"My colleague here is correct. We do not make laws. Nor do we pass judgement. Our conscience will be clear only if we uphold the laws of the land. We cannot and will not make deals. As a Jedi it is forbidden, unless the authorities had granted us such powers - which they haven't."

Corvus pulled out a datapad and punched in a few words. "Law enforcement will be with us presently. The file was received and they have dispatched officers to formally arrest you. We shall remain here until they arrive. To ensure no harm comes to you."

The man blustered and opened his mouth like a fish out of water, but no coherent sounds emerged. Finally he sat back on his throne, his shoulders slumping. Corvus wondered if he had enough personal wealth put aside from ill-gotten gains to buy his way out of this situation. But that was not her concern.

"So, Sera. Thanks for the help. We should be getting that part for you now, yes?"

[member="Seraphina Shel'tah"]

 

[Seraphina Shel'tah]

"If you still have some time to spare I would be grateful!" She said with a gracious nod. It would only take the authorities, a whole battalion at that, to arrive and cease the man from where he sat. They shackled and shuffled him down the corridor, giving a wretched sneer towards both Sera and Corvus standing by, spitting at their feet as he was ushered away. "Jedi Scum!"

"Rude." The Twi'lek said with a disgusted look on her face, staring down at the mucus that had spattered along the floor. With a roll of her eyes she turned back to face Corvus. "Shall we see ourselves out? I believe our welcome is well worn out here." Sera followed a ways behind the rest of the guards as they exited what was realistically the palace constructed purely from laundered funds.

"I want you to know that while I still believe I made the right decision, I do miss you, all of our history, and I can't put a value on our friendship."

[member="Corvus Raaf"]

 

[Corvus Raaf]

Corvus remained calm and detached as the man was manhandled away and did so with the least amount of dignity possible. She had opinions of his behaviours and actions, but she was not here to judge, merely to ensure that justice prevailed.

“I’ve met more charming rancors,” Corvus said to Sera by way of an agreement. “And yes, let’s find some fresh air shall we?”

Corvus smiled and did something extraordinary. At least for anyone that knew Corvus that is. She hugged Sera.

“We will remain friends forever. Yes…I miss you too, but you have to do what feels right in your heart. Otherwise you’ll end up doing something you’ll regret. You’re welcome back at any time, we’ve moved by the way, either as a guest or permanently. Or we can just chat if you ever need anyone.”

Corvus consulted her datapad and glanced around the streets they were now walking along. “Here,” she indicated as she saw a large and gleaming store ahead that promised — according to the sign — to hold every part for every ship. A bold statement, but the order had already been confirmed and the part put aside for Sera.

[member="Seraphina Shel'tah"]

 

[Seraphina Shel'tah]

Sera had never been more surprised in her time as a Jedi than she was as she stood there, near dumbfounded by the embrace that Corvus gave to her. This was definitely a new Corvus! Sera returned the gesture with joy. The Twi'lek had only a brother, long since lost to the galaxy, and felt mostly alone in that aspect. It was nice to feel a sort of sisterly bond with Corvus. Something she would cherish for sure.

"I am forever grateful to the Order for my life, to you for being there as both friend and teacher, and the opportunity to return if I so desire. And if that time should ever come, I will look forward to the reunion, wherever the Order calls home. I understand the recent events within the Republic have become, well, grim."

As they approached the building that held the part she would need to repair her ship, she felt almost saddened. They would once again part ways, even if under better circumstances it felt more like another loss than anything. "Thank you, again."

[member="Corvus Raaf"]

 

[Corvus Raaf]

Corvus nodded. "History teaches us that drama is unavoidable. The Republic is at a low ebb, but that means it should soon be on the ascendancy again. Like a tide. Or a moon. We should not be surprised by cycles. They are natural. Inevitable."

"Now, let's make sure this is the right part and you can be self-sufficient again. And if you're ever on Tatooine, I have a small place there. Nothing fancy, quite spartan, but I call it home when I'm not at the Academy. I enjoy the solitude of the place - but visitors are always welcome. I've had precious few. And I have some lovely neighbours too. Tusen Raiders. They get such a bad press, I have no idea why."

Was she being sarcastic, naive or just being honest. Knowing Corvus, probably a blend of the three.

They reached the trade counter of the showroom and Corvus smiled at the Bith there. "We're here to collect a package for the Jedi Order."

[member="Seraphina Shel'tah"]

 

[Seraphina Shel'tah]

Corvus' statement struck a chord with her Twi'lek counterpart. A notion of curiosity rose in Sera in that moment that Corvus had mentioned the ascendancy of the Republic. A question she decided to pose to her friend. "What if it does not? What if the Republic were to collapse again, such as it did many, many generations ago? Would the Jedi continue a resistance? Or go into distant exile until the Sith could again be challenged?"

Tusken Raiders? Friendly? The only time Seraphina knew Tuskens to be friendly were when there was an insufficient number of them to kill their targets and take what they wanted from them. Perhaps they were afraid of Corvus for one reason or another, or maybe she had somehow, some way, managed to actually befriend those maniacs. Frankly, it wouldn't surprise her, so she didn't even bat an eye at it.

"That sounds lovely. I built a little something on Phindar, myself. It's remote, but I enjoy it." It was anything but a little something. The tower she'd constructed was massive and entirely non-Jedi like in every way imaginable. "Likewise, you're welcome any time of course."

The Bith nodded to Corvus, looking down at the terminal for a moment, searching through the list of orders before silently turning and walking back behind the various shelves that partially obscured view of him. He returned, removing the part from the box and placed it on the table for the two. "Paid for. Have good day."

[member="Corvus Raaf"]

 

[Corvus Raaf]

Corvus looked deep in thought. But her face reflected the fact this was clearly something she’d pondered before. “We are servants of the Republic because we are servants of democracy. Of civilisation. We are, as I seem to say so often, Jedi first, foremost and only. We pre-date the Republic and have remained constant despite its trials and tribulations.”

“Your point is well made, but as a Jedi, my focus is clear. We oppose the Darkness. We uphold democracy. However we can and in whatever form it might take.”

She listened to Sera’s description of her own home. “Phindar? I’ve never been there. But I relate to the remote aspect.”

Having concluded their business, Corvus nodded in the direction of the hangar. “Sadly this is our cue to go our separate ways again. But we can at least walk back to your ship. Make sure the part fits and works.”

But now Corvus was less vocal. Clearly the parting was not something she was looking forward to.

[member="Seraphina Shel'tah"]

 

[Seraphina Shel'tah]

Sera allowed the point to stand. Corvus validated what she believed. Even if the Twi'lek found the prospect a losing battle at this moment in history, she had to hand it to Corvus for her determination and will to go on despite any and all odds.

"I ended up stranded there once with Varus after we fled Dorin when the Sith attacked there. Ship crashed, it was a pretty rough time. But I came to enjoy the world. It was warm, remote, colorful - beautiful. I decided it a good place to call home."

Nodding to Corvus she turned, thanking the man behind the counter as the pair headed for the hangar. "I suppose your right. This was a strange way to bump into one another, but the Force does have a funny way of bringing people together in unexpected ways, huh?"

[member="Corvus Raaf"]