Faction State of the Jedi, an Open Forum [ Open to All Jedi ]

[Spirit of Hope]

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The Jedi Temple
Federal District, Galactic City, Coruscant
Recently Reconstructed to House the Unified Jedi Order

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The events of Kintan have left not only the Silver Jedi Order reeling but also the Jedi Order as a whole. With thousands slaughtered by the end of it all, the unified order worked hand in hand with the Silver Jedi Order to rebuild Kintan and care for those broken beneath the might of the Sith-Imperial war machine. In the aftermath, a Jedi Padawan of the Republic, Lanik Dawnstar did not return to Peace. Further investigation presented the possibility that the Sith kidnapped the Jedi and fled the planet with him in custody. Weeks passed before any word came of the missing Jedi. In a moment of sheer chance, another Padawan of the order, Ryv , connected to Lanik. With the help of Alana Sunrider , Wyatt Morga , Jend-Ro Quill , and many other Jedi, the missing Padawan's whereabouts were found and an operation to save him ensued. While the mission was a success, with Lanik's return to the order, the Imperial Operative Kolson Vrask managed to capture Ryv and escape the ship with the young kiffar.

With another of the Order taken and a mass bounty released by the Sith Empire, no longer can we remain reactive to danger. An open invitation has been extended to all Jedi of the galaxy, inviting them to the refurbished temple upon Coruscant to discuss how the Jedi can safely navigate the galaxy. How will the Jedi approach the evergrowing Sith Empire? What of the genocidal acts of the Bryn'adûl? Now is the time to restore hope to the galaxy, with this forum being the first of many steps needed to bring light back to the darkest corners of the stars.

 

[Tiland Kortun]

It had been a long time since Tiland had been to the Jedi temple on Coruscant. Not since the Galactic Alliance has been here. And he wasn’t sure if he’d ever stayed there for long. The one time that stood out in his memory was when the Galactic Alliance raised One Sith occupies Coruscant and he fought a Sith on the steps of the old temple.

It was nicer now that the Jedi had returned. Once again, the Jedi were housed at the center of the galaxy. At least, in theory. They were gathered to discuss the state of affairs.

And so, Tiland had come from the Outer Rim.

 

[Jend-Ro Quill]

The last few weeks had seen heartbreaking events - the horrors of the Sith dungeon ship, and of course the hell on Kintan. The Sith Empire remained the greatest and most obvious threat to the Jedi.

But certainly there were others. In advance of the meeting, Quill had worked in solitude and silence to put up a giant galactic holomap. The Jedi hermit had a taste for cartography. The gently spinning map displayed the galaxy from many perspectives. It showed a year of armed Jedi engagements from all branches of the diverse Order: against the Empire, against the Bryn'adul, pirates, Children of the New Order, Directorate, Catharian Hegemony in a couple of places, and many others. Little bright dots marked engagements all over the galaxy.

With the map set up, Quill retreated to the back of the room where he could skip out if the meeting grew too loud, packed, or snotty.

 

[Wyatt Morga]

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The hollowed Jedi Temple on Coruscant had stood for millenia as the staple point of the Jedi Order; and a nod to its significant power within the galaxy. Wyatt ran his hand along a pillar as ships flew overhead outside, and he could feel that nexus beneath the ground help center the century old Jedi. A smile crept on his lips, and he slapped the stone ever so slightly - as though it would help ground him.​

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It’d been years since Wyatt had been here, and only a few times after his Master and him had departed for the Outer Rim and Unknown Regions. His robes fluttered ever so slightly as he glanced up to the statues; offering a glimpse into the more recent past, and farther - but his steps wouldn’t have him stop again until he made it into the meeting hall, renovated to hold every Master in the Galaxy - as the new Jedi Order agreed to hold themselves up; though the voice of many.​

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His steps took him towards the lowest section of the room, where the Master’s had began to sit - unlike Quill, who Wyatt noticed almost immediately had strategically left himself to the edges of the Council Room. Likely of the man, considering he hated this many people in one area at once, but Wyatt wouldn’t make a deal of it; he knew all too well there were just some things that wouldn’t change. Sitting himself down, he glanced about to those closest to him before nodding - and he began to speak, his voice empowered by the Force itself to call out to everyone equally.​

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“I want to thank you all for coming - From the Green Jedi, to the Ashlan Order, and the Silver Jedi Order; you’re presence means more than you know.”, he offered sincerely.​

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“However, today the Order and I bring you here for something darker - the question that has been on our minds since Kintan, since the attempts we’ve made to take Jedi back from the Sith’s clutches. As Jedi, we need to determine how best we move forward with the Darkness on our borders - and what would be best for everyone here.”, Wyatt said with a glance to those closer.​

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“I will say this much - for those willing, I believe the Jedi need to work with the local governments on driving the Sith back. The Republic, the Galactic Alliance which so gratefully invited us here, and the Silver Jedi Order; together we serve as the strength of the Light, and the guillotine that would cut the head from the Sith.”, the Jedi Master offered them.​

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“Though, I know many Jedi don’t see war as the preferred route…”, he said a touch quieter.​

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“So I would ask something separate… The establishment of a Jedi Warmaster - Sword of the Jedi, to help guide the Order’s military efforts against the Sith. That amongst us with the power, wisdom, and skill to help guide that effort.”, he nodded.​

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“And in turn, they would help guide the Jedi volunteers willing to drive the darkness back - with the help of the Goverments willing to work with the Order.”
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“But, this is an open forum - please, if anyone has a concern, let us know.”, Wyatt offered as he passed the conversation to the others.​

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Jend-Ro Quill │ Tiland Kortun │ Ryv │ Lanik Dawnstar │ Alana Sunrider │ Everyone Else​

 

[Caedyn Arenais]

The Jedi Temple.
Federal District, Galactic City, Coruscant.
Tiland Kortun | Jend-Ro Quill | Wyatt Morga

Caedyn Arenais had not been present on Kintan, the truth was that he hadn't even heard of what happened there. Situated far south in the Outer Rim Territories, Caedyn hadn't traveled so far into the core since his days living on Commenor long ago. That was until he'd been recently contacted by the Order of the Silver Jedi and agreed to work alongside them more regularly as he'd done in the past.

His attendance among the Open Jedi Forum situated upon Coruscant however was not due to the Silve Jedi alone, in fact his concerns were in regards to all Jedi of the greater Galaxy. His father's ambition had been to see them united, all standing together regardless of their differences and backgrounds. To an extent that had come to be, many various organizations and branches of the greater Galactic Order worked in cooperation with one another towards the betterment of Galactic Society, and that was what Caedyn wished to continue. He was here to represent the Jedi of the Outer Rim Territories, but also to stand among his many brothers and sisters of the Force, to support his fellow branches and sects of Jedi, and to offer his aid should they need it. The Svivren Enclave was small compared to many other establishments dotting the known Galaxy, yet his heart and determination was the same as many others here among them. To serve the Force, and to serve Galactic Society, Justice and Democracy.

"So I would ask something separate… The establishment of a Jedi Warmaster - Sword of the Jedi,
to help guide the Order’s military efforts against the Sith. That amongst us with the power, wisdom, and skill to help guide that effort".
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Caedyn listened to Wyatt Morga 's words intently, soon looking to his peers in thoughtful silence. It seemed they wished to take the initiative, to take the fight to the Sith, something that had been a debate in previous meetings according to the Gatekeepers words that Caedyn had recently heard of his fathers Holocron. It was the classic argument, the difference between Jedi being soldiers and being keepers of the peace. It was difficult to know where he himself stood on the line, too.

Caedyn wished not to encouraged open conflict with others, no matter the justification. Yet the Sith Empire had already proven themselves to show no remorse or hesitation in bringing war upon other worlds, so much so that other Jedi often felt that it was wrong to sit and wait for something to happen, before taking to action. In his mind, the good people fought to keep others safe, to protect them; this was also often countered by the argument that the Sith often sought nothing but to devastate other nations in their conquest for their own ambitions.

So for the time being, Caedyn simply remained silent and listened. There were plenty here older and far more experienced than he was, after all.

 

[A'Sura Den]

The last time he was here was years ago. Years from this place that was another home. Another place he found comfort, the Jedi Temple. This was an urgent call to all Jedi, to all organizations to arrive in the Jedi Temple. This was serious. Something like this was rare to occur. Needless to say, A'Sura was obviously going to attend.

At the center of it all, Jedi Master, Wyatt Morga, gave his speech. A'Sura listened and knew this was going to be one of those times were the Jedi, who holds the light will have to step into some dark places. Normally, A'Sura would love a bit of conflict that needs to be solved, but something serious like this, the Sith had just declared war with the Jedi. And Wyatt Morga accepted after his words, " together we serve as the strength of the Light, and the guillotine that would cut the head from the Sith."

This was something that intrigued A'Sura. On one of his studies in the past, one of the dark times of the Jedi was near extinction. Their own downfall was aiding in governmental affairs. But apparently it was the reverse, the republic and governments would be aiding us in defeating the Sith. Then, the Jedi Master had this to say, “So I would ask something separate… The establishment of a Jedi Warmaster - Sword of the Jedi, to help guide the Order’s military efforts against the Sith.

A'Sura agrees to what Master Wyatt Morga says, except the aid of governments. It was government involvement that leads to the near extinction of the Jedi centuries ago. He kept quiet for it. He learned a few things in history that involved the Sith. They were hidden while the Jedi were playing politics. Then he got an idea that would interest in Wyatt Morga's plan. So A'Sura said nothing and listened.

 

[Shira Varanin]

Wyatt Morga Caedyn Arenais A'Sura Den

The temple was pretty great, considering how many times it had been destroyed and rebuilt in the past thirty years. As far as Shira was concerned, this was one of the more photogenic incarnations.

Shira got up. She'd looked better. Bandages poked out from the edges of her civilian clothes. One metal arm ended above the elbow, off for repairs after tangling with the Sith Empire-backed Children of the New Order and a particularly tenacious Gamorrean.

"Shira Varanin, Jedi Knight, Svivren enclave. When I was in the navy I saw plenty of joint operations between different groups, a lot like what's starting to happen again and what a warmaster or Sword of the Jedi would need to coordinate. That's a big job, too much for any one person, so they'd need close contacts in all our camps, probably assistants, resources. And it sure as feth wouldn't work as a central command office - we've all got allegiances, responsibilities, lots of us are part of different chains of command.

"What I'd suggest is more like the model we've pioneered with the Cloud City Sentinels - sharing alerts and coordinating willing, available Jedi case by case. Bad thing happens, someone notifies central tasking, central tasking puts out a call across various Jedi groups. That's functionality that some individual groups have within themselves - the Silvers do a great job of that - but we haven't achieved that yet across all of us. Solid place to start."

She sat down again.

 

[Celendis Astraia]

The pale Jedi arrived at the assembly, hands held in front of her as her dark, gilded robes dragging behind her as she stepped through the halls of the Jedi Temple on Coruscant. It had been some time since she set foot back on Coruscant after the Sith Empire's attack on it. The building had been restored physically, but the scars of the incident remained forever in her mind. She shifted her steps to avoid walking into people, moving through the crowd with shut eyes as she let the Force grant her vision and guide her steps.​

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She would soon arrive in the meeting hall as she took a seat in the large room, resting her hands on her lap as she patiently waited for the meeting to begin, remaining silent as Jedi Master Morga began to speak. Her lips would soon form into a frown as he began to go in-depth about their meeting. Celendis abhorred violence, even if it was the only option left; the suggestion of having a 'Sword of the Jedi' just seemed to be the equivalent of the Emperor's Wrath for the Sith. It also suggested that there was the drums of war beating that would result in more meaningless violence.​

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Celendis let out a quiet sigh to herself as she remained silent, though every fiber of her pacifist nature was crying out, leaving the decision to fall to the Masters of their respective orders. She understood that war with Sith was inevitable as the differing ideals clashed at every point, but she also despised the thought that the Jedi would consider retaliation as an option.​

 

[Syrena Kothari]

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Location: Temple Halls

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The Jedi Temple of Coruscant.

She could count on her own two hands the number of times she'd been to the temple that had endured the test of time; the test of hostility beyond reasonable measure. Yet, even as she remembered the days she'd spent with her former master walking the halls of the temple, she could barely contain her wonder at the architecture and history of the legendary temple.

She'd only been in the temple five minutes after answering the summons that the masters had issued and she had already lost herself within the temples many halls. She'd found herself in one of the far western corridors, a distance from where the meeting was to take place, and stood admiring one of the many statues that she wondered if it had survived the centuries.

Taking a number of steps further into the temple, while she was still alone, she made her way towards the central part of the temple in order to find one of the rooms that she had spent time listening to instruction from her master. While he'd made it quite clear that he was less than comfortable with being in the temple after his departure, he made it quite clear it was where he wanted her to be.

Pulling the hilt of her saber from her belt, readjusting her coat as she did so to cover the clip once more, she held it in her hand as she stared into the room. It had been months since he had disappeared, weeks since she'd last visited his homestead in the outer rim and days since she'd reflected upon his days with the order.

Those thoughts carefully dismissed and tucked away, she clipped her saber back to her belt and began the trek back towards where the meeting had likely started.

 

[Zara Tate]

Zara stood up after Shira Varanin in reply to Wyatt Morga 's words,

"Zara Tate. Jedi Knight. Formerly Denon Academy of Science. I'd like to echo Knight Varanin's comments. A central Warmaster for all Jedi is too great a responsibility for any one person. Even Jedi Master Taeli Raaf of the Galactic Alliance. And especially anyone associated with a minor faction with so little time, regard, and proof of running a successful operation. The United Order is young and ambitious, and trusting our ability to deliver unto the galaxy sage wisdom or war time guidance is like entrusting a teenager with the Admiralty."

"As such. I also recommend the model made mention by Knight Varanin. For I believe we are stronger as a group of separate identities, working together. Rather than as just one ambiguous thing pulled in all directions. Volunteers all."

She then gave a bow and sat back down. Firming believing that the Unified Order was founded in service and sacrifice to the Major Factions of the galaxy. And not the other way around.

 

[Wyatt Morga]

“Shira, while its a good idea -”, Wyatt offered with a slight glance away, and a cock of his head;​

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“We already do that. What you propose is reactive, responding, always on the backfoot.”, Wyatt said with a slight frown.​

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For years, the Jedi had been on the backfoot; constantly upended by betrayal, failure, or the constant inexorable charge of the Sith. Onward and onwards they came, and the Jedi sat squandered in divisive talks about ‘titles’ - which Wyatt seemed ever more entrenched in by the day. He sighed as Zara Tate spoke - most notably, insulting the Jedi Order and what it had accomplished.​

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“This is the… Third time, I believe you’ve come to these meetings, Zara - and the third time you’ve insulted us, I believe. You’ve almost convinced me you hold hatred for those of us not in the Silver Order.”, Wyatt offered with a half kindred smile.​

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“Almost.”​

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“Now, I will agree that volunteers are important. Many of the Jedi follow pacifism, and I wouldn’t dare force them to fight - but this ‘unproven’ Order has plenty who have fought the Sith in ways you haven’t. For example, The Jedi Order drove back the Sith on Kintan, a battle you were not present for.”, he chided, but slowed himself as he sighed and leaned back.​

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“We need leadership, and these wordy battles of ‘if’ someone should lead only slow us down, give the Sith a chance to drive us back into the holes they put many of the Jedi in only a few years before.”, Wyatt offered as he glanced among those present.​

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“There needs to be someone to assist with these operations day to day - I can’t serve as the psuedo Grandmaster of the Order forever, and a day will come when you will look for leadership outside of me.”, Wyatt frowned at those few who met his eyes.​

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“Zara doesn’t understand the structure of our Order - nor do I expect that of her. Being in charge of our reaction, helping to unite our various factions and orders to fight as one, as a single entity or not needs to be done; but it doesn’t mean they will be infallible. They are beholden to the Council, and the Faction Council secondly.”, he offered with a shake of his head.​

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“Do not get it confused what I propose. We don’t dominion over planets or people - but we do help guide. As Jedi do. I hope to make us many orders with a single goal through a guiding hand - and not many orders pulled in many directions, as you so propose.”, Wyatt said as his gaze slowly fell on Zara Tate once again.​

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Zara Tate │ Syrena Kothari │ Celendis Astraia │ Shira Varanin │ A'Sura Den │ Caedyn Arenais │ Jend-Ro Quill │ Tiland Kortun​

 

[Agrippa]

With shoulders tensed up to his ears, a rock down his throat, stomach churning and legs trembling under the weight of his whole body, Sigurd of Teta looked up at the massive entry of the Jedi Temple. Tears crawled behind his eyes seeking escape and memories of crumbling stone and marble, of rivers of blood, of a skyline collapsing. Endgame, the last time he was here - fleeing off-world seeking shelter and sanctuary from the shattering of the New Jedi Order under a cynical and ruthless betrayal from within. Sigi wanted to turn back and cling to deliverance in the Outer Rim.

No.

The young Jedi Padawan forced himself to stand, clenched his fist and swallowed heavily. The rock didn't move but he did. Forward. Into the same halls he once studied the ways of the Jedi, the Jedi Code and where he was molded to who he was today. The scourge of the dark side grew with every moment, with every internal conflict and uncertainty. He had to be here, he wasn't sure why - only the Force knew and when the Force knew, Sigi of Teta only had to follow its guidance. Such was the path of the Jedi.

The hallways flushed memories old in his mind seeking to diverge him from his path. To break him, stop him by any means necessary. The echo of betrayal still rang strong in these halls, despite the very best efforts of the newly formed Jedi Order to restore its former glory. Such a stain would linger for years ahead, maybe even centuries; he carried on. Relentless. The Force called and he was to answer.

At the gathering he saw many unfamiliar faces. A lot of the Jedi of the New Jedi Order, he believed, were driven extinct during the Battle of Coruscant. A lot perished in their own quests of retribution. From the unfamiliar faces of Jedi he finally found two who he had acquainted with recently - Caedyn Arenais and Shira Varanin, both active in their efforts and battle against the dark side in the forsaken Outer Rim. Just like me, he thought. Sigi positioned himself closely to these two Jedi he knew and listened as a man delivered his speech.

Arguing.

Again. Once more. The Jedi's pursuit to cleansing the plague of the dark side always seemed to hit the road block of internal misunderstandings and different beliefs. Where they needed to be one mighty shield against the encroaching darkness, the Jedi were merely splinters face-first at the tyrannous fist of the Sith. Hubris. Hubris had been the reason the New Jedi Order crumbled, smashed to tiny little bits by the decisive, united and unyielding Sith hammer.

He shook his head. What did he know? He was but a young Jedi Padawan whose understanding compared to these Knights and Masters was negligible. Sigi opted to remain silent and bow his head down, and then it came to him. Hope. Looking up, he scanned the faces of Jedi gathered here. Scattered by their differing views, bound together in the necessity of service for the survival of the Light. He remembered the eyes of the rain soaked, hungry scavenger on Terminus, the eyes of the helpless pregnant widow hiding from the Mandalorian raid on Utapau, the eyes of the father robbed of all his honestly earned income with which he brought food on the table of five. One thing connected them - hope. Hope that there was a light at the end of the tunnel. That this too will pass. That the wardens of the Light shall prevail.

Hope.

That was all they needed.

Zara Tate │ Syrena Kothari │ Celendis Astraia │ Shira Varanin │ A'Sura Den │ Caedyn Arenais │ Jend-Ro Quill │ Tiland Kortun | Wyatt Morga

 

[Caedyn Arenais]

The Jedi Temple.
Federal District, Galactic City, Coruscant.
Tiland Kortun | Jend-Ro Quill | Wyatt Morga | Zara Tate | Syrena Kothari | Celendis Astraia │@Shira Varanin | A'Sura Den

"As Jedi do. I hope to make us many orders with a single goal through a guiding hand
- and not many orders pulled in many directions, as you so propose".
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"Then start by embracing one another's differences, not ostracizing one another for them" Caedyn rose to his feet, frustrated with the show of back and fourth between Wyatt Morga and Zara Tate; "Show some patience and understanding, some empathy and stop pointing the blame like Padawan learners over a sparring match". Caedyn wasn't anyone of great experience here, he'd served the Order alongside the Silvers and the Outer Rim for a while now, but he was still young. It shouldn't have had to be a younger member talking maturity into the seniors.

"Currently, there are numerous organizations of the Jedi spread out across the Galaxy doing what they feel is best. Time and time before, there have been meetings like this that have led to nothing but arguments. Coren Starchaser managed to unite us during the last Conclave, not as one Organization but as multiple who wished for the same thing for the Galaxy as you're proposing now Master Morga...-And it exists, it continues to succeed in every step we take out there, not just against the Sith but all forms of oppression" Caedyn wasn't just reminding Wyatt here, but reminding the group as a whole.

"From here, moving forward, no more casting the blame or emphasizing our differences. If you want to solutions, then we need to work together. Compromise for one another, act as Jedi ought to act and behave as we're taught to behave. Maturely...-Otherwise we're wasting our time here today" he shook his head in disappointment. Those whom thought themselves Knights or Masters, ought to know not to jump down one another's throat's at the first sign of trouble.

"Not everyone here is comfortable walking into open war, that much has already been said. So we send those of us who are willing, while the rest of us focus on humanitarian goals and training our younger ones. Whether we share the same branch of the Order or not, there will be differences of opinion, strengths and weaknesses. Make the most of this fact, don't let it tear us apart further" Caedyn concluded, moving to take his seat and reeling a little in his sudden notice of adrenaline. He wasn't often so bold, but already tempers were heating up and it wasn't appropriate for this group of Jedi Leadership to lead such an important meeting in this manner.

 

[Elise]

Elise sat in the back, quiet as she preferred to be. It felt as if she had been to countless of these sessions now-- yet none of them had made the same uniting progress as the moments where all jedi had come to work together.

Like Kintan.

Actions always spoke louder to her, but as of late jedi were starting to feel like the politicians of great nations-- Discussions, debates-- and only a trickle of follow through.

Elise needed more action.

Still she came to this anyway. It was important to listen. It was important to try and understand. But she had no words to offer-- no opinion she was going to try an impart. Until they were ready to implement a next step, she was here.

She leaned against the pillar she had placed herself against, folding her hands into her robes. The Silver Jedi had vowed their cooperation. In whatever manner they could provide, she would do.

She gave Caedyn Arenais a tight smile at his words, agreeing with him.

 

[Syrena Kothari]

The meeting had already started. The sounds of a variety of voices echoing through the halls an immediate indicator that just what her master had spoken of had already begun.

It was as a young knight, or so she could guess by the look of him, began his contribution to the dialogue that she found her way into the meeting hall. It wasn't like her master had described it, a time when the council delivered their observations and conclusions from an assortment of council chairs amidst a much larger auditorium, but rather much more akin to an audience chamber.

Drawing in a breath, her chest feeling as though it was being crushed beneath a durasteel plate, she steeled herself against the feeling of displacement as she pressed through what Jedi were present. She didn't recognize a single one, each face as new as the last, but she dared not to focus on a thought that might deter her into following the very same path she'd followed upon her arrival.

Into isolation and distance as her master had left her.

Her feet finally slowing, bringing her to a stop close to the Caedyn Arenais, the young knight, whom she'd seen and heard when she entered and waited until he stopped speaking to glance over at him with a look she hoped would convey her understanding and agreement with what he'd said. While she was not altogether versed in the state of the galaxy, outside of the presence and ever growing threat of the Sith and similar identities, the Force told her to trust.

Her master had once told her that his greatest concern with the Jedi Order was their presence of individual interpretation of approach to the galaxy. Would speak of each trying to act of their own desires to try and make right a galaxy that required more than scattered minds approaching a common goal. His words fresh in her memory she still remained silent as she stood quietly.

She may not have been trained to fully understand it, but she knew to listen to the living Force.

And it told her to study the feelings of all, voiced or not.

Wyatt Morga | Tiland Kortun | Jend-Ro Quill | Celendis Astraia │@Shira Varanin | Alana Sunrider | A'Sura Den | Elise | Agrippa​

 

[Lanik Dawnstar]

Not once in the entirety of his lifetime had Lanik been to the planet of Corcuscant. During the time the Alliance held it he had turned his back on the order. The actions taken by the Jedi on Mirial having caused the faith Lanik once held in them to shatter and crumble. It was only in those first moments of entering the temple that he could feel it. What this world truly meant to the Jedi as a whole. Hand reaching out, fingers lightly brushing the wall as he continued inwards he let himself fall into the force.

Falling into the cooling torrents Lanik could feel the waves of light that washed over him as the temple. Despite all that had happened, all that had taken place in Galactic history. This was still one of the greatest homes of the Jedi. A light smile touched the Jedi’s lips. The white-haired individual did not know just how much he needed to see the sight. To feel his heart swell with pride as the Jedi of the now Alliance.

Looking to the chamber where the other Jedi had been gathered, Lanik looked at it through the force and what he saw was glorious. So many pillars of light that stood amidst the chamber. Some bore presences familiar to him, others not so much. Yet the fact remained that many had come if anything it showed that the Jedi were willing to at least attempt to work together.

Soon enough his smile turned down slightly as the torrents of the force shifted, the emotions of some gathered growing tense. Bits of conversation made their way down the corridor and reached Lanik. Continuing forward he exhaled, bringing himself back to the present as he entered. While it was good to find joy in the temple, it was not wise to revel in it. They had been summoned for a reason.

Entering and coming to a stop in-between the throng of Jedi knights and apprentices Lanik simply bid his time listening at first. It was sad how no matter what it always seemed as if some Jedi sought conflict or to divide themselves further due to a difference in beliefs. That was not their way, that was not what a Jedi did, so it was almost a godsend when someone of like mind spoke up. Caedyn Arenais, while Lanik wasn’t knowledgable on everything the other had done, he had heard tales of the young man’s father. An inspiration to the Jedi despite their trials. Offering the other a short respective bow of his head, the Mirial native stepped forward.

“Knight Arenais speaks truth, let us not seek to divide ourselves further. Not over something like this. Instead shall we not discuss the other threats to the galaxy beyond just the Sith? Is our duty not also as defenders of all who seek protection? The feud between Light and Dark has gone on since long before I was born, perhaps will continue long after I turn to dust. Yet, it doesn’t matter if we eradicate it. What truly matters is if we can aid the galaxy as a whole in what ways we can. Whether it be as humanitarians, as teachers, as defenders, as soldiers.”

Stopping and casting a glance across the crowd of the Jedi gathered, Lanik looked upon them as fellow brothers and sisters in the light. It mattered not their origins, their beliefs or interpretations of the code. All that mattered is that they were Jedi. “Let us set aside our differences, and instead of electing only one individual for such a title we make it multiple and extend it beyond just the Sith. As Shira Varanin said, a task such as this is beyond just one person or title.”

Syrena Kothari | Caedyn Arenais | Zara Tate | Elise | Agrippa | Wyatt Morga | Celendis Astraia | Shira Varanin | A'Sura Den | Tiland Kortun | Jend-Ro Quill

 

[Jend-Ro Quill]

"I've, ah..."

Quill grimaced, stepped forward, cleared his throat, and spoke up.

"I've got a solution in mind."

On the huge galactic holomap, a significant fraction of glowing points pulsed red. Most but not all outlined a region between the Sith Empire and the worlds protected by the Silver Jedi. "These are mid- to large-scale military engagements with the Empire."

A different set of lights pulsed gold, all over the galaxy. "These are engagements with a wide variety of Sith cultists, pirates, and terrorists, such as the Children of the New Order. Some have Imperial backing, some don't so far as we know."

A third set of lights pulsed a virulent green. "And these are Jedi engagements with large organized groups other than the Empire: the Bryn'adul Draelvasier hordes, the Catharian Hegemony, the Directorate, and so forth."

Quill stepped forward a little more and turned to face the room, though he didn't really look at anyone. The crowd felt like it was pressing in on him.

"Those three sets make up virtually every armed Jedi engagement over the past year. Each set is qualitatively different and would take different skillsets and connections to effectively lead and coordinate. I suggest we're talking about three separate positions, or three assistants to a central position."

Feth, this was going to hurt. Quill winced in advance.

"I've seen action against the Hegemony and the Bryn'adul. I'd be...a choice...to lead that portion."

 

[Avo]

The latest and "greatest" Grandmaster of the Ashlan Order had been unnervingly quiet so far.

Talking, discourse, planning and plotting. Much of it was foreign to him: a man who'd spent much of his life just handling assignments by himself or with a padawan, traipsing through the outer rim and destroying darkness where it laid. Though this was different. Dozens of people all cut from the same cloth as he in a single room talking about what they should do. Big picture stuff, stuff that would ultimately determine the inevitable fates of billions.

Lan sighed.

Sword of the Jedi, huh?

Master Graendal listened respectfully to those that had assembled, shoulders set forward and eyes meeting eyes. Until a silence came and his own voice filled the chamber.

"I am not exactly pleased with this much talk of militarism. Guardians and sentinels do not exactly seem like the type to fill the role of warrior or soldier. This is something that will require much more than just the unified Jedi Orders to handle." His gaze swept around the room. "It will require cooperating governments. The Alliance, the Republic, and whatever aligned independent planets working with us. This sort of job requires soldiers, doctors, technicians - hearts and souls that will follow our case as vehemently as we will.

"Though I can assure you, encouraging the rest of our people to wage a sort of pseudo-holy war will not be easy. The Ashlan Order will aid, though I ask that none of us be named Sword of the Jedi. We will serve as guardians and peacekeepers until the end of time."

Wyatt Morga | Jend-Ro Quill | Lanik Dawnstar | Syrena Kothari | Elise | Caedyn Arenais | Agrippa | Celendis Astraia | Shira Varanin | A'Sura Den | Tiland Kortun

 

[Alana Sunrider]

Alana leaned against a doorway, listening to the others spoke. It was a difficult way of changing things. Jedi were not... adept at change, if she was being honest, especially those raised more traditionally. They were, well, traditional. They tried to hold onto their previous ways and keep it that way. Eventually, they'd adapt and change, but then the process would change once again. She stepped forward and nodded towards Master Quill and Master Graendal.

"They're right, you know. We're already at war, regardless of whether we believe it or not." She crossed her arms and looked around the assembled members of the room. "Perhaps it's time we learn from our non-Jedi neighbors." She pointed to the map. "Each of these are a different war front. A different case file, for those who are investigators. Different gained knowledge and experience is required for each one, based on how they operate. The Bounty Hunter's Guild has smaller guilds within it that specialize on different areas. If we're going to regain some agency in the galaxy, we need to start doing the same. Compartmentalize. Specialize. It's going to need time, resources, and organization."

She paused for a few moments, assessing the room. "We don't have those. But we can play for time. Analyse trends of activity from those who target us. Find locations to establish outposts. Plant supply caches. Establish support networks and logistical chains. Establish spheres of influence and control. Assign personnel to make them functional." Alana stepped over to one side and pointed to where the Sith Empire ruled. "We need intel. We need ways in and out of there without being detected. Make contact with resistance groups, smugglers, whoever."

The woman turned and looked at the others. "Whoever is in charge needs to be good with details and organization. That's what we're going to need. Not individual warriors or crusaders. Discipline. Organization. Efficiency. Establish different Jedi task forces that are semi-autonomous while the Council manages the everyday affairs of the rest of the Jedi. See if we have any Shadows who can start infiltrating hostile territory and gathering intel."

 

[Wyatt Morga]

Wyatt took in a large breath as the Jedi each laid out their opinions, ideas on how to approach the rising tide of the Sith; but many were minor changes - sprinkles on a rotting cake. The fact the corruption and insecurity the old Grandmaster had left such deep scars in many of these Jedi was foreboding enough - that the trauma of their betrayal may yet hold the Jedi back.​

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“You’re all correct - we do need to work together. Jedi’s greatest strength is our unity - something the Sith learned, and have incorporated into their Empire for years. In that same vein, we seem to have lost that ourselves - but these meetings help bring us closer to the goal we all hope for.”, Wyatt acknowledge with a glance to Arenais.​

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“As for the idea we need to work with the local governments, I believe we are all on the same page.”, the Jedi Master agreed as he stood from his chair.​

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His steps were slow and careful, and his hands moved to rest within the other’s sleeve. His gaze was up, between the various eyes of the Order as they spoke - and Wyatt in the middle of them now. He spoke a touch louder as he glanced about -​

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“But how do we expect to create a unified Joint Command between these goverments?”, Wyatt said with a cock of his brow.​

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“Would we have them come to these meetings, and talk endlessly with the Jedi about where we should plan our counter attacks to contain the Sith? Take no offense, but I believe it would take a Jedi’s patience to handle our meetings.”, Wyatt mused with a faint smile.​

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“We can’t have that level of hesitation, endlessly debating how our response is handled. We need someone to represent the Jedi to them - to speak to them as a unified mouth piece of our Order. These things can’t be left to me, I’ve enough work helping with the refugees from Kintan aboard Peace, and the general running of the Jedi Order everyday.”, the Jedi frowned ever so slightly.​

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“Were I to propose anything, I would hope that Ryv would help lead our efforts in speaking with the governments, as Sword of the Jedi, and establishing a plan of action we would all help enact. As Jend-Ro Quill offered, I would have him work with Ryv against the Bryn’adul, and as for the Sith…”​

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Wyatt walked over to the section of the floor closest to Lanik Dawnstar , and he offered a kindred smile as he glanced to the Jedi before him.​

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“I would propose Lanik. He’s seen more of the Sith than many of us would ever hope for - and he’s come out stronger for it.”​

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Wyatt took a few steps back before speaking to entire gathering once more -​

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“With these three, there would be no doubt in my mind that we would have the administration capability to respond to the Galaxy’s threats without hesitation.”, Wyatt said with a glance about.​

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“While I agree we are an order of guardians and peacekeepers, a change must be made to our strict definition of what that is. Unless the Sith are contained preemptively, they will continue to kill, maim, and murder in the millions. Our inaction, our hope that working strictly defensively and reacting to the Sith threat does nothing for those under their iron thumb - from the genocide of Ession and Mandalore that takes place even today, to their inevitably enroach into the Core.”, he offered with a frown.​

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“At some point, the Jedi must realize that our inaction kills as much as the Sith. We can’t continue to let governments fall, people die, and planets become subjugated to the Sith - or else we can’t claim we are ‘guardians’ any longer.”​

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Wyatt Morga | Jend-Ro Quill | Lanik Dawnstar | Syrena Kothari | Elise | Caedyn Arenais | Agrippa | Celendis Astraia | Shira Varanin | A'Sura Den | Tiland Kortun │ Alana Sunrider​