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Coruscant

Foghren has insisted that you come to the scenic Temple courtyard today- the courtyard where Padawans often gather to perform practice duels. With wooden benches and exotic plants, you are unsure why such a serene location has become the hot spot for exchanging lightsaber blows.

You don't particularly care for its serenity. You once did. Things have changed.

Foghren is a strapping young lad on the verge of Knighthood. Your bond with him is very strong, even for a Master and his Padawan. Even so, with how things are presently, it is feeling strained. Foghren is ready for the Trials. You are not so sure you want him to try them. Not just yet.

A few students his age have gathered around. Normally you would not attend, but these practice duels have a habit of drawing out one student you have interest in- Rianna Xi. You eye her on the far side of the group and dwell on her for a moment...

"Are you even listening, Master?" Foghren asks, jabbing you in the side with an elbow.

"What?" Rand says, responding the jab. He had not been entirely focused lately, spending much of his time in the Archives reading late into the night and not sleeping much after. And then his distraction with Rianna just now...

"I'm sorry, my Padawan," Rand says. "I'm not entirely aware today. You were saying?"

"I asked what you thought my odds were in a three-on-one," Foghren repeats, slightly annoyed. "I haven't been bested in a two-on-one in nearly three months. I was thinking of upping the difficulty."

"That depends on who you choose as opponents," Rand says, not entirely interested in the show of strength. He has tried to train Foghren to be more open to the Force and improve his talent in using it... but so far he has only taken up Rand's skill with a blade and little else.

"For example, if you were to take on someone of Rianna's calibre, a single student may be challenge enough. But the weaker they are, the more you can handle on your own."

"Pfft, I won't duel Rianna," Foghren says. "She makes me look bad if I'm not at my best! Can't have me being beaten by a girl, now, can you?

"You're right, though. I'm pretty certain that I can handle any three of those here today. May the Force be with me, then."

Foghren steps up and ignites his lightsaber, the blue blade shimmering in the daylight. It takes a moment for three adversaries to be found. The three he chooses prepare themselves for his onslaught, only to be surprised when he offers them the first move. They come at him and the duel begins!

You do not feel as though you are alone in standing aside from the group. Someone has joined you- the clack of a wooden cane on stone gives it away.

"Hmm," Yoda says, in his grumbling tone.

Despite having hoped to forge Foghren into an astounding diplomat, Rand is nonetheless impressed by his student's swordplay. He is only distracted from it when he senses someone approach. Someone powerful.

"Master Yoda!" Rand says, though hushed as not to draw attention to the Grandmaster. "It is an honor that you grace us with your presence. To what do I owe this honor?"

"Watch the duels, I do," Yoda says. "From time to time."

Foghren blocks an overhead slash by holding his blade horizontal above him and keeping his legs bent to absorb the blow. He then angles his blade and shunts into the opponent, sending him sprawling into one of the duelists and causing the other's attack to get caught on the first's wild blade.

"Proud warriors, they are," Yoda says. You do not need Jedi senses to read his disapproval.

"It does no harm to be prideful of ones abilities," Rand says. "So long as such pride does not become hubris. I'm sure you agree, Master Yoda."

Rand does not really believe this by now but knows he cannot say that to the Grandmaster of the Jedi Order.

"Not the Jedi way, pride is," Yoda says. "Forgotten too easily, that is. Even our Masters, forget they do. Pride can become hubris and risk the path to the Dark Side. Great power lies in humility."

Foghren is sparring neatly with the three Jedi coming at him now, his blade touching each of theirs in turns as they try to force him into the middle of their gang. He stays on the back-step, moving closer to one of the walls of the courtyard...

Rand resists the urge to assist his Padawan, knowing that his intervention would be uncalled for and that Foghren can likely fend for himself. Were it an actual fight, Rand would not be against flinging away one of his opponents to even the odds.

"I suppose that is true," Rand says, grudgingly. "One should not mistake confidence for pride, however. If the Jedi were entirely humble, we would not have our position as protectors of the Republic. There has to be some amount of pride in that."

"Hmmm..." Yoda grunts.

As Foghren is backed up against the wall, the three Jedi students raise their lightsabers to him. A gesture that requests his surrender. You have trained him never to do that. He promptly turns about face and runs up the wall, performing a flip over and behind the Jedi students. They turn about to face him, but he has already kicked one aside with a heel to the hip. He crosses swords with the other two.

Rand applauds lightly for his student's display of skill, impressed with himself for having produced such a deadly Jedi apprentice.

"Is there a reason for your visit, Master Yoda?" Rand asks. "This hardly seems to be entertainment for you."

"Correct, you are," Yoda says. "I come bearing news for you, Master Rand. The Council has need of your talents."

While the kicked duelist recovers his breath, Foghren spars easily against the other two as they come at him from the left and right. Exhibiting a knack for quick tactical changes, Foghren employs a power blow to knock the Jedi on his right back, before whirling around and using a dexterous twirl to spin the lightsaber from the other's hand. As the weapon clatters away, Foghren performs a spinning kick to take that Jedi out of the running... but runs into trouble when the Jedi slows his kick with the Force and catches his leg beneath his armpit, trapping him.

Foghren falls on his back, his foot still trapped in the grip of the duelist, while the other two descend on him with their blades over their heads.

"Really?" says Rand, failing to conceal his surprise and ignoring the duel for a moment. "The Council has rescinded my probation?"

"Willing to give you a chance, the Council is," Yoda says. "Hope that you learned the error of your last mission, we do."

The blows rain down on Foghren. He blocks each in turn, desperate to avoid receiving a hit that would qualify as a victory for the other team. Things change when he suddenly kicks out the legs of the Jedi holding his foot with the other. Regaining his feet, Foghren comes and slashes one duelist across the leg.

"Two to go," Foghren mumbles to himself as the third Jedi limps out of the fight.

What happened on Rand's last mission that put him at odds with the Council?

That was your mission to Glee Anselm. Rand showed some tendencies there that alarmed the Council, despite his rationalizations for why he did the things he did. Not strictly evil things. Just worrying for a Jedi Master to be doing.

If I'm being vague, it is because it may be a potential game for Rand.

Ah, I see.

Rand turns sharply to face Yoda when he says this.

"Do you speak true, Master Yoda?" Rand says. "About time I was reenlisted for assignment! What would you have me do, Master? Where will I be sent?"

"Illegal arms trade is happening on the Rim of civilized space," Yoda says. "Equipping terrorists for acts against the Republic, someone is. Find and stop them, you must."

Foghren trades a series of blows with the two remaining duelists. It seems almost deadlocked, with neither side giving ground, until Foghren pulls off a powerful attack that knocks back the Jedi to his right. The other Jedi steps in to capitalize on Foghren's focus being off of him... but he underestimates Foghren's speed, and is rather surprised when your student locks blades with him and proceeds to twist the weapon out of his grip. Foghren holds his lightsaber to his throat, prompting surrender before the last Jedi can step back into the fight.

"Where I am to start this mission?" Rand asks. "I can hardly clean up all the crime that plagues the Republic's borders." He smiles at Master Yoda, baring his sharp teeth, a recessed gene that occurs very rarely in Nautolans. The smile has always been unnerving.

"To Lahsbane, you must go," Yoda says. "There, your journey begins."

The last Jedi comes at Foghren with a strong swipe at his back, which Foghren catches with his saber over his shoulder. The two clash with repeated power strikes before Foghren is thrown off. With room to breath, his opponent tries to reach out with the Force to pull to him a discarded lightsaber from one of the defeated duelists. It snaps up toward him...

Foghren darts in and catches it before it reaches him. Activating the second blade, he swipes high and low at the Jedi until it appears repetitive. Then he comes in from the side and pushes the Jedi's sword off to the side, pressing it down, and follows with an underhanded upward slash that knocks the sword from the Jedi's grip.

The duel is over and Foghren has won!

"Lahsbane?" Rand inquires, applauding lightly for his student's impressive victory. "What is happening on Lahsbane?"

Where and what is Lahsbane?

"Find out, you will," Yoda says.

Lahsbane is a small world on the rim of Republic space that shuns technology, inhabited by little furry childish creatures known as the Lahsbees. They contribute a Senator mainly just to make sure they keep people away from Lahsbane.

Foghren stands in the midst of the cheering. He looks rather smug as he puts away his lightsaber and returns the one he snatched. His opponents look a little dejected, but everyone else is impressed. Including Rianna, who smirks and claps. Foghren gives her a wink and she blushes.

"Master Yoda!" Foghren says, striding over. "I did not know you were here."

"Fought well you did," Yoda compliments. "No arrogance did I sense in you."

"I fight not to show off," Foghren says, "but to be ready for when I someday need to be able to handle myself, without the guidance of my Master."

Yoda nods in approval. You have no idea how Foghren turned out like this...

At some point, Rand may have instilled a sense of humility and honor in his young student, perhaps in the earliest days of Foghren's training. He must not be picking up Rand's worsening habits.

Rand notices the exchange of glances between Rianna and Foghren, but withholds comment. The two have a connection, he knows. He ponders if he can exploit it to draw both into his fold for what he thinks may happen.

"I have news for you, my apprentice," Rand says to Foghren. "I can imagine you are aware that Master Yoda did not come to the courtyard just to see you fight today. We have an assignment to Lahsbane."

"We're being sent out?" Foghren asks, somewhat surprised. "That's great news! Where are we going?"

Master Yoda has begun to walk away at this point. He casts a glance back at you, Rand, fixing you with a scrutinizing glare. For a moment, you are nearly worried that he can see into you, into what you are slowly becoming.

Yoda shrugs and continues on his way, but not before saying:

"Wants to see you, Master Vera-Kin does. Before you go."

He leaves the courtyard.

Rand meets Yoda's gaze evenly, waiting until the wizened old master leaves his presence before giving a shiver of discomfort. If Foghren notices, Rand does not explain or comment.

"We are to go to Lahsbane, home of the Lahsbees," Rand says. "Apparently there are issues of illicit arms shipments going on there. Master Yoda has tasked us with putting an end to the problem. I am not sure what we will find on Lahsbane, however. I have not been properly briefed. I suppose we will see when we arrive."

"Lahsbane, Lahsbane..." Foghren says, thinking for a moment. "Huh, strange place to start an investigation on arms trade. The Lahsbee don't use weapons, do they? At least not the advanced sort.

"What do you think Master Vera wants?" Foghren asks.

"I do not know," Rand says.

He believes she wants to have a word with him before going out on account of what happened during his last mission. He does not want to share this with his student.

"You run along and pack your belongings and supplies," Rand says. "I will go talk to my Master. We will depart for Lahsbane tomorrow."

Rand will leave the courtyard to go find Master Vera-Kin, pondering where she might be.

Foghren does as you ask. You notice Rianna watching you both as you leave the courtyard.

It is not hard to find Master Vera-Kin. Even with the state you are in, the connection between the two of you is very strong indeed. Even being her third student, you developed a sturdy bond. You can sense her clearly in the Temple, and you find her in one of great columned hallways.

She is not alone. Beside her walk the other two Jedi Masters who have received training under Vera-Kin- the scholarly Trogari Besh and the rough Numok Geth.

"Ah, Master Rand," greets Geth, a Zabrak with numerous broken horns and the customary face tattoos. "Our Master has heard you are to be deployed once more."

"Hmph," Vera-Kin says, leaning on her cane.

Rand sneers when Geth greets him. He does not like either of Vera's former students, feeling that he is far superior to them in all ways. Even if that is not actually true, since both are Masters in their own right.

"It is true, the Council has granted me an assignment," Rand says to Vera-Kin, not really acknowledging Geth or Besh. "Is this a problem for you, Master?"

"Our Master is still concerned about what happened on Glee Anselm," Trogari squawks, the birdlike woman looking at you down the curve of her beak.

"My, Master Vera-Kin, what a lovely beak you've grown," Rand snarls at Trogari, "or did I somehow never notice it before?"

Trogari Besh squawks in irritation with you retort.

"Since when did a student of mine have such poison on this tongue?" Vera-Kin asks. "I am concerned about you, Rand. You have changed of late. I HAVE noticed, my old apprentice."

"What I did on Glee Anselm was necessary," Rand says. "I realize it crossed boundaries that should not have been, you know this. It will not happen again, Master Vera-Kin. I will not make the same mistake twice. I am not a boy any longer. I am a Jedi Master, just as you are."

"No," Vera-Kin says. "Not as I am. There is a darkness in you that was not there before. I can sense it."

Rand concentrates to hide his mind from Vera-Kin, likely displaying some of his foul temper after snapping at Trogari.

"I do not know what you sense," Rand says, "but you are mistaken. About a great many things. Did you only call me here to berate me?"

"No," Vera-Kin says, frowning. "I'm concerned, not upset. I want to help you, if you'll let me."

"I do not need your help," Rand says, firmly.

Vera-Kin looks down at the ground.

"Leave us," Vera-Kin says.

"Master..." Trogari begins to protest.

"You heard her," Numok says, taking the other's arm.

They depart. Only you and Vera-Kin stand in the corridor.

"I know," Vera-Kin says, "about the Holocron."

Rand narrows his eyes at his old Master. Inside his heart starts pounding. He shrouds his mind as best as he can, to hide his panic from Vera-Kin.

"What are you talking about?" Rand asks, sharply.

"You know of what I speak, Nume," Vera-Kin says, firmly.

What does Rand himself know about the Holocron? I presume we're talking about the one from Rand's background...

Oh, Rand knows plenty about the Holocron of the Sith Lord Burke!

Lord Burke was a formidable and experienced Dark Jedi that ascended to the ranks of the Sith before their last war with the Jedi Order. There is much to learn from his Holocron about the mysteries of the Dark Side... and what was once curiosity for Master Rand is now obsession.

"So I am examining a Holocron that little is known about," Rand says. "I find it historical fascinating and it contributes to a greater understanding of the time period, not to mention what our predecessors were opposed by! It is purely of academic interest, Master."

"There is a reason little is known about it," Vera-Kin says. "Not even Yoda himself makes studies of Sith holocrons. The knowledge they hold is too dangerous and too tempting."

"I will refrain from looking into it again, Master," Rand says. "Does that satisfy you?"

Vera-Kin grumbles under her breath.

"Keep your word and I will be," she says.

"I will, Master," Rand says. He is not sure that he means what he says but he doesn't want to tell the old crone.

Vera-Kin lets the topic go.

"How is Foghren doing?" Vera-Kin asks.

"Well. I suspect he may be ready for the Trials soon. But not yet. I want to try impressing as much of my knowledge of the Force onto him before that. It is the only place in which he is found wanting."

"Not all Jedi are meant to become gateways for the Force," Vera-Kin says. "The Force flows through us all. Some are better at harnessing it than others. You were a rare talent, Rand, to be gifted in many aspects of it. Foghren is just better with the physical side of things. Don't lose sight of how gifted he is otherwise."

"I am aware of my student's incredible talents," Rand says. "He dueled three other students today and won. It speaks greatly of his skill, for how young he is."

Foghren should only be about eighteen.

"Impressive," Vera-Kin says. "Just don't pass on your negativity, and improve upon it yourself. Foghren will make a splendid Knight, and you have done a stupendous job training him. Do not fail him now."

With that, Vera-Kin decides to take her leave.

"I'll be watching, my old Padawan..."

"I know," Rand says, watching her go. He waits until she has passed from his sight before going to the Jedi Archives.

The Jedi Archives are as they appear in the films- an immense hall with rows and rows of shelfing, stocked with datatapes.

Rand will creep along the hallways and shelves trying to remain innocuous so that he can make his way toward the Sith Holocron of Lord Burke.

The Sith Holocron is just where it has always been- the sharp little black pyramid sits upon a pedestal in a section dedicated to studies of the Dark Side and the Sith. It is a section that is normally empty unless the Council orders some research be done. These days, that is very unlikely- the Sith are long since dead and their mysteries are few.

Rand examines the black surface of the holocron, seeing his reflection in the black glass-like substance that it is made from. He does not reach out to touch as he so badly wants to do. He opens his mind to it and accesses what is inside.

There is a cold sensation that comes over you as you tap into the knowledge wells of the Holocron. The imprinted mind of Lord Burke is cold and dark and firm, even after all these centuries.

What do you seek, oh curious Jedi... Burke whispers into your mind. I see you could not stay away. Your Master will not be pleased!

I don't care! Rand thinks back at Burke. I want the secrets of the Force that you hold in there with you in that tiny pyramid of yours!

What has Rand learned from the Holocron so far?

Lord Burke has been strangely quiet on teaching you anything about the Dark Side.

You haven't earned what you seek! The Dark Side helps those who help themselves.

What HAS it done then?

I intend to! I have come to the limits of my power as a Jedi Master. It is time to expand my horizons to those of the Dark Side of the Force. I know I can become more powerful than ever through its use. Just tell me how!

Burke has teased you with some historical knowledge of the Sith and bragged about some of the horrible things he did to people during his lifetime, and even more awful things that he taught others to do. Powers that the Jedi would never let you learn!

You are a Jedi Master. You know what it takes to fall to the Dark Side. Maybe you have brushed with it before or watched another succumb to it. You just have to take the plunge yourself...

I WANT to. I just need to figure out how I can do so.

That is not my problem.

Someone is coming, Rand.

Rand will shut Burke out of his mind and turn off the Holocron before anyone sees him.

That will be a Willpower check to push the Dark Lord out of your head.

Rand will concentrate and clear the Dark Lord from his mind, so that he can explain himself to whomever finds him in a moment.

Two successes will be enough. You imagine it was much harder to keep the REAL Lord Burke out of one's mind... but the Holocron is just an echo of the Sith Lord. The darkness clouding your mind is lifted.

Foghren turns the corner around one of the many shelves.

"Master Rand?" asks Foghren. "There you are. Master Vera said I'd find you here."

He looks past you at the Holocron.

"What are you doing?"

"Ah, Foghren," Rand says. "I thought you were preparing for the journey to Lahsbane? I was just wandering the Archives, looking for further information on Lahsbane."

"Oh," Foghren says. "Good thinking, Master. Is there anything we should be wary of when we arrive? Aside from the troublemakers we're being sent to handle."

Instead of trying to prove himself to his student, Rand decides to be pretentious and wise in front of Foghren.

"All in due time, my apprentice," Rand says. "Have you prepared yourself for the journey there?"

"I'm ALWAYS prepared, Master," Foghren says confidently. "I have everything I'll ever need. My sabers and my wits."

"Sometimes more than that is needed," Rand says. "But not this time, I don't think. We'll see what Lahsbane has in store from us. It'll lead to somewhere else, I'm sure of that."

"I believe you, Master," Foghren says.

Is there anything else you want to do before the trip to Lahsbane?

How are you getting there?

-

Also, since Rand had not become involved with the Mecrossans prior to his fall to the Dark Side...

Please pick three Merits.

Hmm. I will have to think about that.

Rand will request an official Jedi transport to take them to Lahsbane. There is nothing further he'd like to do.

Rand has always been well-connected.

He has a Contact with one of the Jedi that helps maintain the Jedi Archives. Not with Jocasta Nu herself, though. The Jedi is named Yorlo Vin, a Scholar.

He has a Contact in the Senate, Senator Rodd of Fondor. He is from the Tapani sector, where the Mecrossans operate from, and Rand has done some work in the area before and made the acquaintance of the Senator.

He has an Ally from Glee Anslem, a Nautolan from his homeworld and part of the leadership's private guard. Rand uses him to maintain connection with his homeworld. The Nautolan is a soldier named Asar.

Okay! Looks like Rand has lots of bridges to burn when he goes all megalomaniac.

In any case, official transportation is provided! Along with a pair of Republic pilots to operate it. The ship is just fueling up when you arrive at the nearest starport to the Jedi Temple.

You are not the only one there, however. A short, furry creature in a lavish cloak is watching the flight crew get the ship ready for its journey.

Rand frowns when he sees the small furry thing standing in his way. The only reason he knows it is sentient is its clothing.

"To whom do I owe the pleasure of delaying my flight?" Rand asks, trying to put on a sarcastic but good-humored air. He Scans whoever this is as he addresses him.

"Hello!" says the short furry thing. It is slightly felinoid, with a red mane pulled back into a tight ponytail. It hooks its thumbs into its belt and smiles jovially. It is shouting unnecessarily. "I am Senator Po of Lahsbane! Pleased to make your acquaintance, Master Jedi! How are you!"

Rand offers a smile.

"Oh, hello, Senator," Rand says. "How can I be of service? I am just about to depart for your world."

"Yes! I know! How fantastic!" Senator Po says, reaching out to shake your hand. "We don't have a lot of visitors! It's very neat! We're excited!"

"I'm... glad to hear of your enthusiasm," Rand lies. "I have not been fully informed of what is happening on Lahsbane. Only that arms have been smuggled onto your world. Could you tell me more?"

"Oh! Sure! The Huhk have blasters and are causing problems!" says Senator Po. "Normally we'd handle it ourselves, but we're not fighters! The Huhk are breaking our rules! Lahsbane avoids technology, and they've brought it!"

"Who are the Huhk?" Rand asks. He is becoming increasingly irritated by the Senator's shouting.

"The Huhk are us!" Senator Po says.

"I don't understand. Can you explain what you mean?"

"We are the Lahsbee!" Senator Po says. "Later, we become the Huhk, when we're older! The stress of growing up forces us to change! We are a very young society, Master Jedi! By our own standards, at least!"

"That is bizarre," Rand says, rudely. "What are the Huhk like? They sound troublesome and violent. I would expect a being to become wiser and more responsible with age, not the other way around."

"Sadly that's not how it works for us!" Senator Po says. "The Huhk are big and brutish and violent and impulsive and angry! They're very simple-minded! We try to care for them and keep them safe and active members of society but they're rioting now! They're causing problems and harming the Lahsbee!"

"Then they must be stopped," Rand says. "I have been instructed to find out how they are getting their weapons. Especially if you're saying that Lahsbane doesn't have any. Are there other actions you want me to take here?"

"Find out where they are getting the guns and stop them from coming!" Senator Po says. "I'm sure you'll be able to find out how they are receiving them!"

"That is my intention and my mandate," Rand says. "I will need to confirm that I am able to put an end to their insurrection before I take action, however. The Council needs to permit it."

"I'm sure they will allow you to do whatever is necessary to bring peace to Lahsbane again!" Senator Po says.

"We will see," Rand says. "What do I need to know about your capital? Where have the Huhk been launching their attacks?"

"The Huhk have been attacking the outskirts of the city but they are becoming bolder since we have not stopped them!" says Senator Po.

Rand keeps that in mind, anticipating that he may start his investigation there. But it won't be enough to start on.

"Where do the Huhk live?" Rand asks.

"The Huhk live segragated in villages!" Senator Po says. "Outside of our cities!"

"Is that something enforced by your government or is it voluntarily done by the Huhk?" Rand asks.

"It is a policy that King Fribi instated!" Senator Po explains. "The King is the smartest of the Lahsbees, and he thinks the Huhk are dangerous and should be kept apart instead of allowed to live among us!"

Rand rubs a hand down his face.

"Of course he does," Rand says. "I shall see what can be done, Senator. It sounds as though your world is in dire need of change, but that is well outside my mandate, and I must stick to my mandate."

In reality, Rand does not want to deal with these people, and he merely wants to please the Jedi Council and stick to his mandate.

"Yes, it is! It needs the Huhk to be controlled!" Senator Po says. Despite being a cute fluffy creature with a high-pitched voice, you get an off feeling about him. "Meet with our King when you go to Lahsbane! I will not be going because I have business here! Good day, Master Jedi!"

Senator Po rather abruptly turns to leave the landing pad.

"What was that all about?" Foghren says. "I hope they're not ALL like that, or I might go insane."

"I have the strangest feeling that you might be insane by the end of this mission," Rand says, offering his student a smirk. "I have not encountered the Lahsbee much, in my time in this Galaxy. I consider myself fortunate, after what I've just observed."

Rand shakes his head.

"It sounds as if Lahsbane has some racial issues, if that makes sense."

"I got that vibe from what the Senator was saying," Foghren says. "For something so cute and adorable, he's awfully strict on his stance toward the Huhk."

Foghren pauses.

"So... the Huhk are old Lahsbees?"

"That is what I derived from what was said, yes," Rand says. "So not necessarily racism, then. Ageism, perhaps. Abuse of the elderly."

Rand scoffs at the thought.

"Though it sounds as if the Huhk aren't standing for it. I wonder how they even kept them subdued originally."

"On paper, I can't blame them," Foghren says. "I don't know how much harm they've caused yet. Can't really judge."

Foghren shakes his head.

"It's not our mandate, anyway."

"No," Rand says. "Besides, Lahsbane needs more than a pair of Jedi coming to their world to implement any sort of widescale reform. It won't happen quickly, and it won't start soon."

Rand shakes his head. He is not excited for the first part of the mission. The Lahsbee annoy him already and he has only met one.

"Come, Foghren. We must begin our assignment."

"Yes, Master," Foghren says. He makes for the ship.

As mentioned, the ship is officially provided for you. It is a diplomatic vessel with no armaments, and the pilot and co-pilot are provided to fly the ship for you. They welcome you aboard and ask you to strap in.

Rand thanks them for being ready to leave so promptly after their arrival, and does as they ask. If the ship has a room separate from the cockpit, he will stay there and meditate with his student.

There is a main room where you can be in, just behind the cockpit.

The flight to Lahsbane takes much of a day. It is in the Mid Rim, not far from the Galactic Center.

During the flight, Foghren asks you a question.

"What did Master Vera-Kin want to ask you about?"

"She was just checking on me," Rand says. "I'm returning to the field after the last mishap occurred. She was concerned and told me to be safe and do well on my mission."

Rand pauses, then corrects himself.

"Our mission."

"Yes, ours," Foghren says. "There won't be any mishaps, this time, I hope. I appreciate everything you've taught me, Master, but sometimes you stray a little from what the Order finds appropriate..."

"Sometimes it is necessary," Rand says. "But I never stray so far from their teachings that I would be 'court martialed' from it. I am a valuable asset for the Order. They know I get results when they send me on assignment. Even Glee Anselm, as much of a mess as it became, I accomplished what needed accomplishment..."

"So long as the cost for your accomplishments is not too high, then I suppose you do good work for the Order," Foghren says. "I certainly have seen it that way since you took me as your student."

He smiles.

"I should hope so," Rand smirks. "How can you be a stupendous Knight if you do not learn from my example?"

Rand gives a dry laugh to express his humor.

"So, where do you believe the weapons are coming from?" Rand asks, shifting the topic of conversation to the mission.

"I couldn't say, Master," Foghren says. "From off-world, at the very least. Senator Po impressed upon us that they don't like technology very much."

"So then they're being smuggled in," Rand says. "And by someone who knows how to do it without getting caught on a world that dislikes outsiders and technology."

"I guess so," Foghren says. "What would you say the difference would be?"

"I'm not sure," Rand says, musing. "We may have to wait until we reach the planet. I may meditate on this."

Rand will spend a point on Foresight, please, if he has some time to meditate and discern the future of their mission.

Foghren never learned much of that from you.

"If you think it will help," Foghren says.

Your vision will come to you at an appropriate point.

Fine, fine...

Rand is not particularly interested in talking to Foghren, since his student seems inclined to get into discussions about morality. He will spend the rest of the flight meditating anyway.

In that case, Rand is well-rested and his thoughts clear when the Republic diplomatic vessel comes in for a landing on Lahsbane! The pilots tell you to strap in again, for your safety.

"The entry to Lahsbane is rough," one explains. "There is a fine pollen that permeates the air here. It is harmless to breath, but it wreaks havoc on ship engines. We're coming in slow. It may still be turbulent."

"Everything about this world sounds aggravating," Rand says sullenly. He straps in and motions for Foghren to do the same.

After a rocky entry into Lahsbane's atmosphere, the luscious surface of Lahsbane comes into view! Everything is rife with greenery and colorful fields of flowers. Lahsbane's quaint capital city sprawls across a valley, a delightful network of bridges and walkways and houses on stilts and cottages nuzzled into the hills. Everything is brightly painted and starport resembles a quiet train station, complete with a clock tower telling the local time.

As mentioned by the pilot, there appear to be pollen motes floating through the air visibly.

A cute little Lahsbee in a conductor's uniform approaches the starship and blows a whistle.

"Departing at Lahsbane Galactic Starport!" he wails.

Rand cringes as the 'conductor' wails. He already intensely dislikes this world.

"Thanks," Rand says, with forced gratitude. "Where do we go to reach your King?"

"The King is holding court now!" says the pseudo-conductor. "Are you the Republic representatives of the Jedi Order?"

"Yes," Rand says curtly.

"Follow me!"

The conductor has your transportation to the King's court ready for you- a cute little rickshaw pulled by an even more adorable, long-haired pony! The shaggy little thing looks at you dumbly as you walk up, then goes back to eating from a bag of food.

"Get in!" the conductor says, exictedly.

Rand is already sick of this world and he has barely stepped foot on it. He suppresses a groan and steps into the rickshaw, making sure his lightsaber is secure and pulling his cloak tightly around him.

"Come, Foghren," Rand says. "We'll leave the ship here and meet with the King to gain further directive on how to handle the Huhk. We'll need local knowledge to figure out where we're supposed to be and the King's blessing to make sure any action we take is sanctioned with their government."

Rand waits for the rickshaw to be led to the King's court, hoping that it will go at a decent pace.

The rickshaw moves at a dainty pace away from the old-fashioned starport, and into the Lahsbees' capital. As you viewed upon your approach, most structures are at most two-story cozy cottages, either standing on their foundations or up on 'stilts' or nuzzled into hillside. The Lahsbees start turning out as you make your way through the streets, and start throwing flower pedals and confetti into the air.

"It looks like they're excited to see us," Foghren says with a smirk.

"I had no idea," Rand says, sarcastically. "This certainly is a hindrance..."

Rand will ask the conductor if they can go any faster.

"I'm eager to solve all your world's problems," Rand says, still somewhat sarcastic.

"Of course!" the conductor says, giving the pony a light pat to speed it up. It does not go significantly faster.

The Lahsbees, in addition to throw pedals and confetti, try to hop up onto the rickshaw with you and hand you things. Presents from the locals! They consist of things like doorknobs, bouquets, a small shoe...

Rand will thank each person that hands him a gift and control the urge to scream from how annoying this is. Normally he is quite composed, even in his darker moods, but this is obnoxious.

He will go into a meditative trance to block it out, if possible.

It is about then that they start singing a happy song about their new friends the Jedi in their high-pitched voices! Hooray! Certainly hard to block that out...

This goes on for about an hour before you finally reach what you deem must be the King's Palace. It is underneath a large hill, with a great round door that is much bigger than needed for any Lahsbees, or even a person. The hill itself is festooned with all sorts of grand decorations and trinkets to indicate the King's wealth and glory. Rand might take solace in the fact that even a race as cute and cuddly as the Lahsbees are capable of greed and prejudice.

The Palace is guarded by two little Lahsbees holding halberds. They cross the halberds when you approach.

"Are these the Jedi?!" the guards asks.

"YES!" the conductor yelps.

"Let him in!" the guards shout excitedly at each other. They rap their halberds on the door and allow you entry.

Rand will move past them quickly, not wanting to dilly-dally and hoping to get things over with as soon as possible. He does examine his surroundings in the King's cottage to see what is to be seen, and he reaches out with his Senses to get a feel for it and see how many Lahsbees are going to be at the court.

The King's cottage is comically large inside, considering how tiny the Lahsbees are. You step in comfortably after the guards struggle to open the door (Foghren helps them and they thank him for his kind deeds!) and make your way toward the court. The hallways are wooden and rounded, much like a Hobbit house. However, it is much more cluttered with the King's belongings and prized possessions... which is more or less just to say that he is a hoarder and has all sorts of junk strewn about the place. You have to watch where you step in order to not crush something "valuable."

The King's court is the worst of the cluttered. There are literally piles of things behind the King's throne, and his attendants are sorting through them, taking inventory.

The King of Lahsbane himself sits upon a throne, which is much too large for him and he has a lot of cushions to prop himself up on.

"You there!" the King says. "Helloooooooo! Welcome to my court, traveler!"

"The Jedi, your lordship!" shouts one of the guards that escorted you in.

"Ahaaaaaa!" the King squeaks. "I had heard of your coming! Please, come in!"

He shouts for some pillows to be brought for you, so you can sit before his throne. Attendants come forward with little tiny pillows for you, then realize they're too small and go to get more.

"How were your travels to Lahsbane?!" the King excitedly asks.

"They were well, O King under the Hill," Rand greets, speaking loftily to look more impressive in front of the King's court. "Or should I address you by another means? I am most eager to please so that I might bring peace to your world once more."

"Oooo, King under the Hill!" the King says. "I like that! That is classy! But please, call me King Qee, Lord of Lahsbane, I prefer it! It is my name, after all! So, you've come to help us then! You're going to destroy all the Huhk for us and come back again to do it again when there are more of them? Again?!"

"Yes, King Qee," Rand says. "I am Nume Rand, Jedi Master. We have not come to kill the Huhk, but to end their threat to the throne by alternative means. They are receiving weapons from an unknown source. I intend to find the supplier and cut off the deal. It is possible that the Huhk may get in my way, but I did not come here to murder all of them."

King Qee does not seem very pleased with that answer.

"I thought the Jedi were great warriors!" King Qee shouts. "Why won't you kill all the Huhk?! They're menacing to my people and impossible to control!"

"Murder is not the way of the Jedi, though we are impressive in battle, yes," Rand says. "I'm here to figure out why they became so much more dangerous lately, not destroy them. Surely you know that!"

"They've always been dangerous," King Qee whines. "This isn't something new. It's just that they've gotten... technology."

Every Lahsbee in the court shudders at the word.

"Isn't that the greater concern here?" Rand asks. "That someone is giving technology to your greatest foe? Technology that can harm you?"

Rand thinks scaring them with this might be a better way to deviate from the path of Huhk hatred.

It's a shame that you aren't very persuasive, but Rand trying to scare people is something you are better at. You pass your Intimidation roll and send chills through the court.

"Y-yes!" King Qee stutters. "That is true! Someone plots against me and my people by giving them... you-know-what!"

"Indeed," Rand says. "It is them that you must worry about. I want to find them as soon as possible. Can I be shown to the Huhk encampment, or concentration camp or whatever it is you keep them in?"

"Yes, yes! Please, see where the vermin sleep!" King Qee screeches.

It will just be back to the rickshaw, when Rand is ready to depart, and the slow pony will carry you back to where the Huhk are forced to live.

Rand is tempted to reprimand the King for his racism, but thinks better of it. He will reluctantly return to the cart.

Then it is off to the Huhk ghetto for you! They are confined to a series of large block buildings that are a sore sight compared to the quaint, cozy cottages of the Lahsbees. Guardsmen of King Qee patrol the area with their halberds and silly oversized helmets. It is as you approach the area (after far too long in the rickshaw) that you see your first Huhk.

These things are behemoths. You are hard-pressed to believe they come from the Lahsbees later in life. These things stand at nearly three meters and are rippling with muscles. And they are ugly.

Rand is not sure where to go now. Do they have some semblance of representation here on Lahsbane?