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Epireus

The Epireus base has a common room that is full of comfortable chairs. The Dark Jedi have not been in the mountain lair for very long, and already some of the furniture has been butchered and used as target practice as Rand has declared that the Epireans are no longer to be used for that purpose.

Gallador sits moodily in one of them, his eyes closed in deep thought. In the last few days, he has come here to rest and regain his strength after the ordeal with Doon. Before him sits a few old tomes that he has kept with him over the years. They contain stories of the past, tales of Jedi Knights and Sith Lords, embroiled in conflict for control of or salvation for the Galaxy, wielding the Force as a terrible weapon or calling on it for guidance to peace.

He was studying the old Sith tablet that his new associates snatched from a vault deep within the Ghost Citadel of the Golden Serpent.

But Gallador has dozed off, and now dreams of the past. Of days when he dreamed to match the greatness of the Heroes of Old...

-

Welcome to "Heroes of Old," a game from the Retrospection series. These games are meant to provide a fun plot based upon the backgrounds of player characters, while giving players themselves a chance to gain experience- both in points and in practice with the system. This time, Retrospection takes a look at Gallador Enkidu, an associate of Nume Rand with ambitions to become a powerful Master of the Dark Side.

But he was not always that way. Gallador began as a studious Padawan, dedicated to the Jedi Order and bringing justice to a Galaxy that is rife with violence and corruption. Under the tutelage of Jedi Master Harrar-Urr, Gallador is quickly becoming a powerful follower of the Cosmic Force and developing a frightfully advanced intelligence for someone so young.

We find Gallador in the Jedi Temple, doing what he does best...

Coruscant

You are frustrated, Gallador. The Temple offers classes to its Knights and their students for those that wish to further their knowledge of the Galaxy they live in and the Republic they are protecting. Education is obviously free and taught by some of the brightest minds in the Jedi Order.

What has you frustrated is that one of your teachers made an obscure reference to a battle during the New Sith Years, over a thousand years ago. The Battle of Thond V, where a Jedi General led a meager band of guerrilla fighters to victory against an overwhelming Sith force.

Extra credit is being offered to the first student in the class who can come up with the exact dates and the names of the heroes and factions involved, as well as a special treat.

But so far, you haven't found anything about that battle! You've found information about Thond V easily enough, a Republic colony that used to have thriving mines but has now become an agricultural powerhouse. But nothing on its history as a battleground.

Strange indeed! Gallador is the best history student in his class and this lack of data is frustrating. Perhaps Jedi Archives will have an answer?

The answer certainly isn't in your text books! Which you suspect your teacher knew. It wouldn't be extra credit if extra effort wasn't made.

The Archives are possibly your most frequented place in the entirety of the Jedi Temple, possibly even more than your own quarters! Normally, a Padawan your age does not have access to the hallowed shelves of datatapes and a librarian must assist you, but they know you well here because your Master has connections to the Archives.

While Gallador is en route to the Archives to find his answers, let's flesh out some things about Gallador.

How old is Gallador by the time he helps strike at Emperor Rivas?

Hmm, Gallador`s race (which is roughly based on fantasy elves) has life span greater than average humanoid, but for convenience let's say they do not mature much slower. Gallador is several years older than Rianna, since he was a bit on his own before he joined Rand and joined him before Rianna.

Let's say he is 35 at the time they moved against Rivas, but I don`t mind if you have other ideas.

That is fine! Gallador is currently a teenager of 17, then, as he makes his trek to the Archives. This sets the story in 45 BBY, roughly thirteen years before The Phantom Menace. The Sith are long dead and the Republic is relatively stable.

You have been under the tutelage of Master Harrar-Urr for five years by this point. He has supported your decision to develop your talents for touching the Force and focus on your studies, though he himself is a jack-of-all-trades and dabbles in everything. He thinks you should as well.

Originally posted by REXXXX
That is fine! Gallador is currently a teenager of 17, then, as he makes his trek to the Archives. This sets the story in 45 BBY, roughly thirteen years before The Phantom Menace. The Sith are long dead and the Republic is relatively stable.

You have been under the tutelage of Master Harrar-Urr for five years by this point. He has supported your decision to develop your talents for touching the Force and focus on your studies, though he himself is a jack-of-all-trades and dabbles in everything. He thinks you should as well.

Gallador agrees in principle, but he spends so much time studying history and Jedi lore, as well as Living and Cosmic Force, that he does not have much time for much else, especially combat skills. He was always sensitive and had great affinity to Living Force, but also tried to understand the Cosmic Force to gain more control over his emotions, which he was taught are dangerous for the Jedi.

What are young Gallador's stats by the way?

Overall, your stats and skills will remain the same, but your Lightsaber rating is a measly 6 at this point in your training.

Originally posted by REXXXX
Overall, your stats and skills will remain the same, but your Lightsaber rating is a measly 6 at this point in your training.

What about Force Powers?

Might be unrealistic, but keep them as they are. They are Gallador's crowning glory and I'd rather not have to go through and trim things down to less-than-starter status.

Gallador has a Force Rating of 6 during this story.

And, of course, no Dark Side powers.

Originally posted by REXXXX
Might be unrealistic, but keep them as they are. They are Gallador's crowning glory and I'd rather not have to go through and trim things down to less-than-starter status.

Gallador has a Force Rating of 6 during this story.

And, of course, no Dark Side powers.

Very unrealistic for Padawan to have all the powers from Living Force tree, but with lesser Force Rating I won`t be able to use them as effectively anyway.

The Archives then!

Onward!

The Archives are unchanged from how they appear in the films- an enormous space with rows and rows and rows of shelves, packed with lightly glowing datatapes containing all the information that the Jedi Order has accumulated over the millennia.

An attendant notices you and just gives you a subtle nod, which is all you need to start looking for your answer.

Okay, since the research about Thand V did not come with much, let's find something about the battle in history books, which Gallador is familiar with.

Battles in history is a rather broad area to be searching! Especially in this Galaxy.

Originally posted by REXXXX
Battles in history is a rather broad area to be searching! Especially in this Galaxy.

Well, I am sure narrowing the history to the New Sith Wars will help a bit.

The conflicts of the New Sith Wars spanned over a thousand years, beginning with the rise of Darth Ruin and ending with the Battle of Ruusan. You are not sure where Thond V falls in the timeline.

Well, I am sure that Archive database has an index with search function, right?

It does have things separated into categories, but this Thond V thing appears to be a vague reference. It was probably part of a major campaign.

Can I get what campaign it was from the context in which the history teacher put the reference in?

A Savoir-Faire check for Gallador is a pass. You know the general area of space that Thond V is in, so you could rule out some of the campaigns that took place in different parts of the Galaxy, away from the Thond system.

Originally posted by REXXXX
A Savoir-Faire check for Gallador is a pass. You know the general area of space that Thond V is in, so you could rule out some of the campaigns that took place in different parts of the Galaxy, away from the Thond system.

Good, let's go with it.

Gallador rolls a Jedi Lore check, then. With his bonus as a "Scholar," Gallador has a dice pool of 11 on this skill. Four successes points Gallador in the right direction as he wracks his brain for the right campaign to search through...

While you are perusing the section of the Achives that you think might have what you are looking for, you have your nose buried in an old tome and accidentally bump into another person in the library.

Originally posted by REXXXX
Gallador rolls a Jedi Lore check, then. With his bonus as a "Scholar," Gallador has a dice pool of 11 on this skill. Four successes points Gallador in the right direction as he wracks his brain for the right campaign to search through...

While you are perusing the section of the Achives that you think might have what you are looking for, you have your nose buried in an old tome and accidentally bump into another person in the library.

Gallador will look at that person absent-mindely and apologize.

The Jedi Knight, whom you have seen in the Archives often, brushes off his robes lightly and closes the book he was reading. His dark beard is neatly braided and he carries himself proudly.

"I appears neither of us were paying attention," he says. "My apologies, young one."

The Knight notices the book you were reading.

"What has you reading up on conflicts with the Sith?" he asks.

"Indeed, I am researching the battle on Thond V during New Sith Wars, which was referenced on the history lesson I attended today. This subject always interested me."

How should Padawan adress a Knight, I forgot?

"Ah, Thond V," says the Knight. "A brief skirmish in the Dark Age of the Republic. An odd story for your teacher to reference. It's rather obscure."

'Master' will suffice.

Originally posted by REXXXX
"Ah, Thond V," says the Knight. "A brief skirmish in the Dark Age of the Republic. An odd story for your teacher to reference. It's rather obscure."

'Master' will suffice.

"Well, perhaps he likes to challenge his students. But I am quite amazed that you know even such obscure references, Master" He looks at the Kinght respectfully.

"Do you know more about that battle?"

The Knight scoffs slightly when you call him Master.

"Please," he says. "Call me Kuylen. I don't want to spoil everything for you. You gain more from earning your knowledge."

Kuylen carries on down the isle.

"It was part of the Lunis Campaign, though..."

Kuylen wanders off to resume his research.

"Thank you very much." - Speaks Gallador as Kuylen leaves.

Has he heard about Kuylen before?

Not any more so than any other Knight.

He certainly just handed you a piece of the puzzle, though! The Lunis Campaign was a collection of battles led by the Dark Lord Lunis, a Sith Lord who eventually went crazy and exiled himself to Tatooine. He was working solo, as during the Dark Ages of the Republic the Sith were mostly just fighting themselves.

Interesting. Can I connect the battle on Thond V to that campaign?

The Thond system certainly was in that area of space! Now you just need to find the right source to get your information from.

Five successes on your Jedi Lore check says that you manage to find a compendium of the events of the Lunis Campaign. Perfection! This should have exactly what you need...

Originally posted by REXXXX
The Thond system certainly was in that area of space! Now you just need to find the right source to get your information from.

Five successes on your Jedi Lore check says that you manage to find a compendium of the events of the Lunis Campaign. Perfection! This should have exactly what you need...

Perfect, all according to plan, Bwaha! (Okay, I quess Gallador did not practice his evil laugh at that point in time).

His evil laugh is rather less menacing right now.

The compendium gets you exactly what you need... the Battle of Thond V was considered the last fighting of the Lunis Campaign, though it took place after Darth Lunis' forces were broken. His men trying to take Thond V were not informed in time and engaged in battle with the Jedi General Hoth, who routed them totally with the beginnings of his Army of Light.

Originally posted by REXXXX
His evil laugh is rather less menacing right now.

The compendium gets you exactly what you need... the Battle of Thond V was considered the last fighting of the Lunis Campaign, though it took place after Darth Lunis' forces were broken. His men trying to take Thond V were not informed in time and engaged in battle with the Jedi General Hoth, who routed them totally with the beginnings of his Army of Light.

General Hoth rings a bell.....

Gallador is not the type to go home just because he found an answer, he will propably spend few hours reading through it. Stories about battles between Jedi and Sith really capture his imagination.

It should! He was the Jedi General that, essentially, led the final battles against the Sith that led to their ultimate defeat. He was a ferociously talented warrior and strong in the Force after a lifetime of practice and meditation.

Darth Lunis, on the other hand, was very powerful in the Force and driven mad by the Dark Side.

Originally posted by REXXXX
It should! He was the Jedi General that, essentially, led the final battles against the Sith that led to their ultimate defeat. He was a ferociously talented warrior and strong in the Force after a lifetime of practice and meditation.

Darth Lunis, on the other hand, was very powerful in the Force and driven mad by the Dark Side.

Typical... was he killed by Jedi?

No. Darth Lunis went into exile and eventually committed suicide. Or so the story goes.

Originally posted by REXXXX
No. Darth Lunis went into exile and eventually committed suicide. Or so the story goes.

Strange behaviour for such sellfish being as a Sith, there had to be more to it.

Legend has it that Darth Lunis believed in a twisted version of karma. Having been defeated by the Jedi, Darth Lunis believed he had failed in this life. He killed himself so that he could get on with the next one and try again.

Of course, it doesn't work that way, but the Sith exactly known for adhering to the Jedi beliefs.

Originally posted by REXXXX
Legend has it that Darth Lunis believed in a twisted version of karma. Having been defeated by the Jedi, Darth Lunis believed he had failed in this life. He killed himself so that he could get on with the next one and try again.

Of course, it doesn't work that way, but the Sith exactly known for adhering to the Jedi beliefs.

Interesting.

Well, after satysfying his interest on the subject Gallador goes to sleep, assuming that he has something to attend to tomorrow.

You certainly have the information you needed!

If there is nothing else that Gallador wishes to find in the library, he can return to his other studies in preparation for class tomorrow. Master Harrar-Urr is on leave after your last mission, so you have time to do much.

Originally posted by REXXXX
You certainly have the information you needed!

If there is nothing else that Gallador wishes to find in the library, he can return to his other studies in preparation for class tomorrow. Master Harrar-Urr is on leave after your last mission, so you have time to do much.

Gallador will meditate a bit, trying to see if he can get get a glimpse of future from the Force. Then he will go to his studies.

Do you want to make a spend on a precognitive power?

Originally posted by REXXXX
Do you want to make a spend on a precognitive power?

Yes, Foresight.

You gain some rest and set your mind in a state to receive wisdom from the Force and your texts before returning to your studies. After countless hours accruing information, you decide to call it a night and drift off to sleep...

Floating in the void is a golden shape- a triangle. All three points are incredibly sharp, and its center pulses with great power. Except that power is not real- you already know what real power is.

A finely-dressed man is dragged yelling into the darkness, below the gleaming skyscrapers of Coruscant. Around him, war is waged and people are dying in the streets. The man is a commodity. Suddenly, the fighting halts and the triangle arrives. All around the triangle, more men die, cut by its points.

Master Harrar-Urr stands before the triangle, lightsaber raised. He yells for you to run and he runs toward the shape, but he is overwhelmed before he can strike....

You wake the next day feeling quite rested, despite your odd dream.

Originally posted by REXXXX
You gain some rest and set your mind in a state to receive wisdom from the Force and your texts before returning to your studies. After countless hours accruing information, you decide to call it a night and drift off to sleep...

Floating in the void is a golden shape- a triangle. All three points are incredibly sharp, and its center pulses with great power. Except that power is not real- you already know what real power is.

A finely-dressed man is dragged yelling into the darkness, below the gleaming skyscrapers of Coruscant. Around him, war is waged and people are dying in the streets. The man is a commodity. Suddenly, the fighting halts and the triangle arrives. All around the triangle, more men die, cut by its points.

Master Harrar-Urr stands before the triangle, lightsaber raised. He yells for you to run and he runs toward the shape, but he is overwhelmed before he can strike....

You wake the next day feeling quite rested, despite your odd dream.

Quite an ominous dream this is, does Gallador recognize the triangle symbol? He would like to talk with his Master or other Master about it, if it is impossible he will go for his lessons.

It is not something you recognize.

Master Harrar-Ur, rising for his day, is happy to discuss the vision with you. Master Scovione is apparently off world on a mission. Master Harrur-Ur was healing from some battering he took on the last mission you were sent on, to protect a Senator from a crazed stalker. He took a knife in the chest protecting you and the Senator, but he is all good now.

Master Harrar-Ur is played by the intimidating Keith David. If you are not familiar with his voice, I recommend that you listen to it somewhere.

"Ah, Gallador," says Master Ur when you meet with him in one of the Temple's social lounges. "How was your rest? And your studies? I believe you have your class later today."

"Indeed Master, my studies go well, I did some research about Lunis Campaigns yesterday. However, I had a strange vision from the Force, may I tell you about it?"

He will repeat it accurately.

Master Ur strokes at the beard on his chin as you retell your vision.

"Intriguing," Master Ur says. "What do you believe it shows?"

Originally posted by REXXXX
Master Ur strokes at the beard on his chin as you retell your vision.

"Intriguing," Master Ur says. "What do you believe it shows?"

This triangle I saw may refer to some kind of dangerous group or organization that we will be facing against and it looks like it would be in the Coruscant underworld. I was told in that vision that their power is false, so it is likely based around deception."

"A sentiment I agree with," Master Ur says. "Sadly, despite Coruscant being the home of the Jedi Order, it still sees its fair share of crime. We can't be everywhere at once, unfortunately.

"Did you get any details about the Senator?"

what Senator?

Master Ur frowns, then runs a hand through his hair.

"I'm... not sure," he says. "I dreamt last night, but I do not recall the dream. It was hidden from me. Perhaps that was a subconscious slip..."

"Hidden from you, Master? But why would it be hidden from you?"

"I'm not sure," says Master Ur. "I'm afraid that the future isn't something I'm all that attuned to. My dreams can be vague."

(Which is to say- Master Ur only has Dreams.)

Not that good with Cosmic Force is he? A bit strange for Padawan-Master relations if Padawan is better in some areas.

"Perhaps that vision also indicates that we will get a new assignment soon."
- Speaks slightly dissapointed Gallador.

That isn't to say that Master Ur is not talented in the Cosmic Force. That is just to say that he does not have Foresight.

"Very possible," Master Ur says, studying your face. "Why does that make you so glum?"

Originally posted by REXXXX
That isn't to say that Master Ur is not talented in the Cosmic Force. That is just to say that he does not have Foresight.

"Very possible," Master Ur says, studying your face. "Why does that make you so glum?"

"I am just troubled about my vision, I wish I could fully understand it."

"I am certain you will receive the answers you seek," Master Ur says. "Otherwise, the Force would not have shown it to you. Am I right?"

"Of course. Force works in mysterious ways but there is always purpose."

"Very good, my student," Master Ur says, tousling your hair. "Now, don't you have a class to get along to? We'll talk more of the vision later, and I'll see if I can turn up anything in the Archives regarding the triangle."

"Indeed I have, Master, I will look for you later."

He will go for his class.

The class is called to session, then, with Gallador barely making in the door. The Jedi Knight delivering the lecture is taking attendance, then begins the class by asking if anyone was able to come up with the extra credit for the previous class.

"Anyone?" she asks, smiling.

"Well, I researched that question a bit and it apparently refers to the Lunis Campaign." - Gallador speaks confidently. He will describe what he found out in more detail.

"Very good, Gallador," the Knight says. "See me after class, please."

The Knight, Dardra, continues the lecture based off of the information that you provided, going into further detail about those campaigns and the overarching themes that characterized that time period. Most of this you already know because of your research from last night, but it is still interesting and she tells it in a compelling way.

After the class, Dardra calls you to up to the front as everyone else is filing out of the room.

"I did mention that you would receive extra credit as well as a small prize," Dardra says, smiling. "I'm supposing you'd like to see it?"

Originally posted by REXXXX
"Very good, Gallador," the Knight says. "See me after class, please."

The Knight, Dardra, continues the lecture based off of the information that you provided, going into further detail about those campaigns and the overarching themes that characterized that time period. Most of this you already know because of your research from last night, but it is still interesting and she tells it in a compelling way.

After the class, Dardra calls you to up to the front as everyone else is filing out of the room.

"I did mention that you would receive extra credit as well as a small prize," Dardra says, smiling. "I'm supposing you'd like to see it?"

"Of course, Master". - Gallador nods.

Dardra escorts you into her adjoining office, and closes the door behind you.

There is a protective rectangular case on her desk.

Originally posted by REXXXX
Dardra escorts you into her adjoining office, and closes the door behind you.

There is a protective rectangular case on her desk.

Retriangular, hmm?

"What it is, Master?"

Rectangular, not triangular. It's a wooden box.

Dardra pops the case open with the Force and reveals its contents- a lightsaber.

"Do you recognize it from your studies?" Dardra asks. "I feel someone like yourself may have paid attention to minor details."

Do I recognize?

Gallador has already built his own saber right?

Oh, most definitely. You did that years ago.

You think you might. It is certainly an older design, a little bulkier than the modern Jedi lightsabers. It is scuffed and aged and has definitely seen action.

"This is the lightsaber of Jedi Master Hoth himself," Dardra says.

"Oh, this is wonderful, I am very grateful that I am allowed to see it".

"I thought you would be," Dardra says. "I was certainly astounded the first time I got to see it. May I?"

She presents her open palm to take the lightsaber from you.

"Why I am the only person you are showing the saber to, Master? Is this a reward for my dedication to studying?" - Gallador asks after a moment of hesitation.

"It is indeed," Dardra says. "Of all the students in this lecture, you have shown the most interest in the subject, and more important than that, you have shown that you are actually learning. Most impressive, Gallador."

Originally posted by REXXXX
"It is indeed," Dardra says. "Of all the students in this lecture, you have shown the most interest in the subject, and more important than that, you have shown that you are actually learning. Most impressive, Gallador."

"Thank you again, Master" Responds Gallador happily. "I was always really interested in the Sith Wars era, among other things I like the purity present in that struggles - followers of Dark Side and the Light opposing each other to determine the fate of the Galaxy".

"It was a dark time for the Republic, and for the Order," Dardra says. "Many Knights felt the call of the Dark Side in the midst of their struggles. But we prevailed. Our victory preserved democracy and garnered an era of peace that has not been interrupted. The Sith will never return. Our struggle now is for the hearts and minds of the Republic's citizens, and protect them from other dangers."

Instead of taking the lightsaber from you, Dardra points to the activator on the lightsaber.

"It still works, you know. I've managed to refurbish it."

Originally posted by REXXXX
"It was a dark time for the Republic, and for the Order," Dardra says. "Many Knights felt the call of the Dark Side in the midst of their struggles. But we prevailed. Our victory preserved democracy and garnered an era of peace that has not been interrupted. The Sith will never return. Our struggle now is for the hearts and minds of the Republic's citizens, and protect them from other dangers."

Instead of taking the lightsaber from you, Dardra points to the activator on the lightsaber.

"It still works, you know. I've managed to refurbish it."

"May I try?" Asks Gallador. Is Dardra does not object, he will activate the saber.

The lightsaber hums to life! Its blue blade scintillates vibrantly in the dimly lit office, as it did a thousand years ago.

"The Army of Light retrieved his lightsaber and the those of others after their final victory against the Sith," Dardra explains.

Gallador closes his eyes for a moment imagining Lord Hoth wielding this sword.

"Quite amazing that is still works after thousand of years".

Must be said, Lord Hoth killed a metric ton of Sith Lords and their minions. It is fairly simple in design, more or less just a dull gray cylinder with a grooved grip and an on switch.

"Lightsabers are built to last," Dardra says, smirking.

"Indeed, a wondeful weapon". -Responds Gallador, though he does not spend as much time training with saber as some of his colleques.

Does he know how was the saber retrieved? If not, he will ask about it.

How the Sith were defeated is another story entirely, but those who did not participate in the final confrontation went in later to clear up the aftermath. Hoth's lightsaber was retrieved then, from Ruusan.

(Okay. Gallador may want to discuss a bit about history with Dardra, but there is no need to roleplay it in detail, I think). He will eventually thank Master Dardra again and leave, unless she has something more for him.

Dardra will simply encourage you to continue your studies.

"Often the Jedi of today forget the sacrifices that were made to secure what we have now," Dardra says. "Lord Hoth died in his final victory against the Sith, and many Jedi died before him. Remember that always."

After your class, Master Ur summons you via comlink.

"The Council wishes to see us," Master Ur says.

Originally posted by REXXXX
Dardra will simply encourage you to continue your studies.

"Often the Jedi of today forget the sacrifices that were made to secure what we have now," Dardra says. "Lord Hoth died in his final victory against the Sith, and many Jedi died before him. Remember that always."

After your class, Master Ur summons you via comlink.


"The Council wishes to see us," Master Ur says.

"Of course Master, as we expected after receiving that visions, right? Master Dardra just complimented me on my progress in studying and showed me a lightsber of Lord Hoth himself , by the way".

"A rare treat indeed," Master Ur says. "I'm glad your knowledge earned you a reward. Keep in mind that being rewarded is not why we learn, though."

Master Ur tells you that he actually approached the Council about your vision, seeking guidance.

Originally posted by REXXXX
"A rare treat indeed," Master Ur says. "I'm glad your knowledge earned you a reward. Keep in mind that being rewarded is not why we learn, though."

Master Ur tells you that he actually approached the Council about your vision, seeking guidance.

"Is the Padawan's vision enough to bother the Council, Master?"

"It seems important, and I myself did not receive anything from the Force," Master Ur says. "The Council thinks there might be merit to sending us on a mission here on Coruscant."

Originally posted by REXXXX
"It seems important, and I myself did not receive anything from the Force," Master Ur says. "The Council thinks there might be merit to sending us on a mission here on Coruscant."

"Interesting, do we know anything yet?"

"Not yet," Master Ur says. "The Council is unsure what to make of it, though they believe it may be related to a preexisting case being investigated by the Order."

Originally posted by REXXXX
"Not yet," Master Ur says. "The Council is unsure what to make of it, though they believe it may be related to a preexisting case being investigated by the Order."

"Do we know about that case?"

"The Council is going to fill us in," Master Ur says.

Master Ur and yourself ascend the lift that takes you into the main spire of the Jedi Temple where the Council itself resides. The lift deposits you into the room just outside of the meeting chamber.

Trorn, the Council's representative, gives Master Ur a subtle nod upon his return.

"I see you have brought your Padawan this time," Trorn comments. "Welcome, Gallador. Are your studies going well?"

Originally posted by REXXXX
"The Council is going to fill us in," Master Ur says.

Master Ur and yourself ascend the lift that takes you into the main spire of the Jedi Temple where the Council itself resides. The lift deposits you into the room just outside of the meeting chamber.

Trorn, the Council's representative, gives Master Ur a subtle nod upon his return.

"I see you have brought your Padawan this time," Trorn comments. "Welcome, Gallador. Are your studies going well?"


"They are going very well, I hope all is well for you also?"

"They are," Trorn says. "The Council will see you now..."

The doors of the Council chamber slide open soundlessly.

Was Gallador ever in these chambers? He looks around with interest, following his Master inside.

He has been in here before many times, as most Jedi have.

The Council is present in full attendance. Master Yoda appears to be meditating in his seat, while Master Windu gives you a nod of acknowledgement as you step into the circle of Masters.

"Master Ur has told us of your dream," says Master Mundi. "Tell it to us again, in your own words."

Originally posted by REXXXX
He has been in here before many times, as most Jedi have.

The Council is present in full attendance. Master Yoda appears to be meditating in his seat, while Master Windu gives you a nod of acknowledgement as you step into the circle of Masters.

"Master Ur has told us of your dream," says Master Mundi. "Tell it to us again, in your own words."

Gallador will describe exactly what he dreamed of, or are they after an interpration?

They will accept both, if you like.

This triangle I saw may refer to some kind of dangerous group or organization that me and my Master will be facing against. It appears that it will cause some great conflict in Coruscant underworld. I was told in that vision that their power is false, so it is likely based around deception but it will be powerful enough to endanger my Master."

"A very astute observation," Mace Windu says. "And highly plausible. We believe that your analysis of the triangle in your vision may be correct. We currently have an ongoing investigation into a series of gang-related crimes taking place in the Coruscant underworld. Your vision may be connected, as may what Master Ur was able to derive from his own."

"You think they'll attack the Senate?" Master Ur suggests.

"It is... possible," Master Mundi says, hesitantly.

Originally posted by REXXXX
"A very astute observation," Mace Windu says. "And highly plausible. We believe that your analysis of the triangle in your vision may be correct. We currently have an ongoing investigation into a series of gang-related crimes taking place in the Coruscant underworld. Your vision may be connected, as may what Master Ur was able to derive from his own."

"You think they'll attack the Senate?" Master Ur suggests.

"It is... possible," Master Mundi says, hesitantly.

"If I may, why would simple gangs attack the Senate?"

"An attack on the Senate is a worst case scenario," Master Windu states. "It is far more likely that they will target a specific Senator. If your vision is any indication, they will attempt to kidnap one."

"We are not sure of the motive yet," Master Mundi admits. "That is what you are going to discover for us."

Originally posted by REXXXX
"An attack on the Senate is a worst case scenario," Master Windu states. "It is far more likely that they will target a specific Senator. If your vision is any indication, they will attempt to kidnap one."

"We are not sure of the motive yet," Master Mundi admits. "That is what you are going to discover for us."

"We shall do our best, Master. What leads do we have on these gangs?"

(My apologies- Jedi Master Ki-Adi-Mundi was not on the Jedi Council as of this point in time. His lines have actually been delivered by Oppo Rancisis.)

"Coruscant has many gangs scratching at its underbelly," Master Windu says. "But there is one in particular that appears to be fighting its way to the top. That in itself is a danger- a gang with too much power- but it's list of crimes typically includes extortion rackets."

"The Knight assigned to the case has identified them as the Lopan Avengers," says Master Rancisis.

Originally posted by REXXXX
(My apologies- Jedi Master Ki-Adi-Mundi was not on the Jedi Council as of this point in time. His lines have actually been delivered by Oppo Rancisis.)

"Coruscant has many gangs scratching at its underbelly," Master Windu says. "But there is one in particular that appears to be fighting its way to the top. That in itself is a danger- a gang with too much power- but it's list of crimes typically includes extortion rackets."

"The Knight assigned to the case has identified them as the Lopan Avengers," says Master Rancisis.

"What happened to that Knight, Master?"

"That Master is still on the assignment," Master Windu says. "Master Grevor Scovione. He is working diligently to uncover the plot before it comes to fruition."

Originally posted by REXXXX
"That Master is still on the assignment," Master Windu says. "Master Grevor Scovione. He is working diligently to uncover the plot before it comes to fruition."

"Master Scovione... I know him. Are we to join him then?" Speaks Gallador excitedly.

You have interacted with Master Scovione only a few times during your career at this point. He is a busy man and has taken a new Padawan recently, a young boy named Corelay.

"Indeed," says Master Windu. "Perhaps what you have seen will help provide insight into this potential danger to the Senate."

Originally posted by REXXXX
You have interacted with Master Scovione only a few times during your career at this point. He is a busy man and has taken a new Padawan recently, a young boy named Corelay.

"Indeed," says Master Windu. "Perhaps what you have seen will help provide insight into this potential danger to the Senate."

"We will do our best to help with this matter, Master Windu".

With that, the Council dismisses you! Master Scovione is working under an assumed identity, which will be provided for you. You yourselves will be provided alternate identities, as associates of Master Scovione.

How is Gallador's Savoir-Faire?

Originally posted by REXXXX
With that, the Council dismisses you! Master Scovione is working under an assumed identity, which will be provided for you. You yourselves will be provided alternate identities, as associates of Master Scovione.

How is Gallador's Savoir-Faire?

2, with Intelligence 5 and +1 bonus because of the template.

Sufficient, then, to pull off the role that you have been handed for the cover story.

Master Scovione is purporting to be a corrupt businessman, using his knowledge of Coruscant and some actual connections he's made through the years to pull off the image of an influential, immoral behind-the-scenes political figure. He is starting to make bonds with many of the underworld's groups, probing each for their potential threats. Corelay is playing his indentured servant.

Master Ur is going to be a gunrunner that Master Scovione has called in to supply his new friends with weapons as needed.

Gallador... will also play an indentured servant.

"I promise not to be too demanding of you," Master Ur teases.

Originally posted by REXXXX
Sufficient, then, to pull off the role that you have been handed for the cover story.

Master Scovione is purporting to be a corrupt businessman, using his knowledge of Coruscant and some actual connections he's made through the years to pull off the image of an influential, immoral behind-the-scenes political figure. He is starting to make bonds with many of the underworld's groups, probing each for their potential threats. Corelay is playing his indentured servant.

Master Ur is going to be a gunrunner that Master Scovione has called in to supply his new friends with weapons as needed.

Gallador... will also play an indentured servant.

"I promise not to be too demanding of you," Master Ur teases.

"Oh Master, I was learning humility all my life, you should know well I have no problem with it." Gallador grins in response.

"I am pleased to hear that," Master Ur says. "Just make sure you stay behind me if we come up against any... adversities, one could say."

You will be keeping your lightsabers, but per the undercover requirements the Council advises (and Scovione requests) that you do not display your powers overtly or use your Jedi weapons unless absolutely necessary.

Gallador does not really care about overt displays of power and he thinks that some Jedi rely on their sabers too much, though he feels better having one in hostile environment, of course.

Overt does not necessarily mean throwing someone across the room with your mind. Anything that could be noticed is what they are cautioning against.

Where you're going is certainly as hostile as it can get on Coruscant. Scovione will be meeting you at the Tanker's Turn, a particularly rowdy drinking establishment located deep down in the lower levels.

The Jedi Council arranges for an outdated speeder as your transportation, to keep up with your alias. Master Ur will drive, unless Gallador prefers to.

Gallador may well be a passenger.

He probably is a bit curious about Coruscant underworld, propably not having to deal with it before.

You have not gone terribly low down on Coruscant, no.

Master Ur will start up the speeder, then, and start the descent from the Jedi Temple! He takes you across some of the upper levels before diving down into the depths. The tops of the super skyscrapers begin to disappear above you, and the light becomes gradually less as the sun is blocked by the towering city around you.

It does not take long to reach your destination. The Tanker's Turn is very deep in the city, and there are fumes down here from pollution being drained onto the planet's actual surface even further below.

"This is not a place anyone should live in, no wonder it attracts the worst kinds of scum. Authorities should do something about it, Coruscant is the center of Galaxy, jewel of the Republic."

"Coruscant's bedazzlement is based solely on what can be seen from space," Master Ur says. "And unfortunately, with all the troubles that Coruscant must monitor throughout the Republic, it lacks the resources necessary to cleanse its own streets of riff raff. Not even the Council can commit its Knights to such a task, for there are too few of us and too many troubles."

"I do not think that this excuse is sufficient Master, surely there is more that the officials could be doing"- Gallador shakes his head, distracted.

"Well," Master Urr says. He thinks for a moment before speaking, collecting his thoughts. "Look at it this way. As the host of the Galactic Republic, Coruscant treats the Chancellor and the Senate as the local government. If it is not the will of the Senate to place an onus on Coruscant for improvements and an increase in law enforcement, then Coruscant just continues on as it has done. It is only when the Chancellor makes any significant push for Coruscant's betterment that the Senate will agree on a motion that promotes such.

"Otherwise, the Senators all try to collect funds and support for their own worlds, their own projects."

Originally posted by REXXXX
"Well," Master Urr says. He thinks for a moment before speaking, collecting his thoughts. "Look at it this way. As the host of the Galactic Republic, Coruscant treats the Chancellor and the Senate as the local government. If it is not the will of the Senate to place an onus on Coruscant for improvements and an increase in law enforcement, then Coruscant just continues on as it has done. It is only when the Chancellor makes any significant push for Coruscant's betterment that the Senate will agree on a motion that promotes such.

"Otherwise, the Senators all try to collect funds and support for their own worlds, their own projects."

"I quess so Master, this is the true nature of politicians - the sellfishness. And yet, we the Jedi Order, serve these sellfish and short-sighted politicians. Shouldn`t we be the ones guiding them?"

"That is a potentially dangerous line of thought," Master Urr says. "You have heard of the saying 'Power corrupts,' yes?"

Originally posted by REXXXX
"That is a potentially dangerous line of thought," Master Urr says. "You have heard of the saying 'Power corrupts,' yes?"

"Yes, but we the Jedi are trained all are our life to use our power for good, I would say we are much less prone to corruption than all these politicians".

"Perhaps," Master Urr says, "but for all our wisdom, sometimes gaining that political power is too much for us."

Originally posted by REXXXX
"Perhaps," Master Urr says, "but for all our wisdom, sometimes gaining that political power is too much for us."

"I will think about this subject more, Master." - Responds not entirely convinced Gallador.

It is a subject that you have never really been convinced of anyway. How could anyone without the ability to touch the Force and the wisdom of a Jedi truly understand how the Galaxy works and protect it on a diplomatic level?

Master Harrar-Urr parks the speeder a short distance from the Tanker's Turn and disembarks it.

"Hopefully it is shoddy enough that nobody finds interest in it," Master Urr comments. "Come, Gallador."

He begins walking toward the pub.

Gallador looks around with interest, his series alert in such new and dangerous environment.

The lower level streets are not at all what you are used to, Gallador. The upper city is always the most modern part of Coruscant, having been recently constructed, and while the Jedi Temple and the Senate are both in older districts, they're still fairly recent and well-maintained.

Down here, everything just feels out-dated and unattended. At some point the sliding pneumatic door that was the entrance to Tanker's Turn broke and was simply removed in favor of a swinging Western-style saloon door. You get the feeling that the streets don't get a lot of attention themselves, and many of the street lights are unlit.

Master Urr is going into the bar. You sense the crowd before you see it- the Tanker's Turn is absolutely packed and the patrons are rowdy today. Many of them are crowded around the viewscreens that the bar has up, or dancing to deafening electrosynth music.

Master Urr tries to say something to you; you can't hear him very well.

Gallador has his senses alerted.

"Yes, Master?" -He says, closing his head towards his.

"I see Scovione," Master Urr says loudly. He gestures to a darker corner of the tavern, where an older man sits in a booth.

Gallador nods and follows Ur to Scovione's place, not greeting him overtly or tto loudly.

Scovione acknowledges your presence with a simple nod. He has donned the shabby outfit of a drifter. Scovione is much older than Master Urr, fully gray. He has let his beard become frazzled to fit the part.

Sitting beside him is a handsome boy about your age. His Padawan, Corelay, mimicks Scovione's nod. Corelay looks just as ragged and disheveled.

The Jedi Master waves to the table, indicating that you join.

"Urr, Gallador," Scovione says. "Welcome."

"Greetings, Master Scovione". Responds Gallador respectfully.

"We are here to help in your investigation, though I do not have much experience wth undercover work myself."

"Is that so?" Scovione says. "Was it wise to bring him?"

"He can adapt," Harrar-Urr responds. "You know he can handle himself."

"Alright," Scovione says.

"You don't look your part," Urr says to Scovione. "Corrupt businessman?"

"I'm laying low currently," Scovione says. "A classy suit would be too blatant here."

Scovione directs your attention to the clientele of the bar. Everyone here is a drifter or spacer of some sort, dressed poorly.

"What do you know so far?" Scovione asks of you.

Hmm, can Harrar-Urr respond to this?

"We know what you're working on," Master Urr states simply, implying Scovione's gang-busting operation. "And we know about the Lopan Avengers."

Scovione smiles. "Now we're talking."

"My Padawan saw a vision possibly concerning their activities and intentions," Ur continues.

"Is that so?" Scovione says, regarding you again. "What did you see, young one?"

Gallador focuses on his vision again.

"Well, my vision involved a golden triangle, a symbol of great danger and power. Its power did not seem real but one based on deception, but still it brough danger to my Master and all around it. There was also a finely dressed man dragged away in this vision, propably a senator... Master Harrar-Urr had a vision involving one.

Is the symbol of these Lopan Avengers a triangle, by the way?"

"It is," Master Scovione says.

"What troubles me, and the Council, is the obscure nature of my own vision," Master Ur states. "It felt as though I did not see all that the Force meant me to see."

Scovione frowns at that. "You know what that could mean..."

"The Dark Side clouds this matter," Master Ur says, with a nod.

"The Dark Side.... does it suggest that a Darksider could be involved? Surely, I have not heard of a Darksider being present on Coruscant for many centuries..." Gallador frowns, concerned.

"Nor have I," Master Ur says. "But we never rule out anything until we establish the facts that prove otherwise."

"I find it unlikely," Scovione says, simply.

"What do we know about the enemy, Master Sciovione?"

Scovione clears his throat.

"I have yet to learn much of the Lopan Avengers," Scovione says, "but here's what I do know:

"The Lopan Avengers seemed to come out of nowhere, and they're quickly taking over territory in the underworld. They special in extortion and blackmail, so they try to use this approach before resorting to violence.

"When violence proves necessary, they use guerrilla tactics, or hit-and-run. They aren't opposed to open street wars, but if they do engage, they finish the fight and vanish quick."

It is a short list from Scovione; he admits that the Avengers remain shadowy and obscure, as much as they can. He does not know where they originated, where their base of operations is centered, or what caused this recent surge in activity.

"They're getting aggressive," Scovione says, "but nobody knows why."

"Which means nobody is talking because they fear this group," Ur concludes.

"Exactly."

"So, in order to get something of value, we need to get to the members of the group itself?

However, I am a bit surprised that people do not believe that Jedi can protect them against bunch of thugs."

By 'people,' you mean the general population. The people targeted by the Lopans currently include mainly the other criminal groups of Coruscant's underworld. They probably do not want the Jedi around in the first place, let alone there to defend them from other gangsters.

"We need to figure out who they are and what they want," Scovione says. "I have played this game for a long time, busting drug smugglers and breaking up gangs. But they've proved elusive. For any operation to work, I need a point of contact within their organization."

"You are very experienced at dealing with that type of criminals, Master. How do you plan to find this point of contact?"

Scovione wants to make contact with one of the criminal groups threatened by the Lopans under the premise of offering some sort of aid- probably money for guns. While Scovione and Harrar focus on striking deals with the gang, Corelay and Gallador will ask around about getting in touch with the Lopans.

From there, Scovione and Harrar can investigate the Lopans and take further action.

"Have you decided who to reach out to?" Harrar asks.

"I'm working on it," Scovione says. "I'm known in some circles for some of the assignments my old partner and I took on. I need to choose carefully to avoid recognition."