A ‘Chance’ Encounter

[Zamid Sarlo]

​

So this is the undercity. It’s worse than I imagined. Zamid Sarlo thought, strolling a street that belonged to Coruscant’s lower levels. Instead of his typical senatorial robes, the old Duros opted for a less than obvious clothed of a brown leather jacket, white undershirt, gray pants, and similar boots splattered with mud.

The toxic fumes filtered freely within the air above, mixed in with the stench of a thousand odors. While he did not have a nose Zamid unfortunately still can smell the filth through his red eyes. Grimacing, he pressed on through a moving crowd that reminded him of a school of fishes. On the walls were a few vagabonds spread out all over, begging for money or food, and even both to any passerby.

While Zamid maintained a supposed non-caring exterior as he walked by such desperation. Inwardly it was different story however, his heart mourned. You can’t save everyone Zamid. He quietly reminded himself, as memories of dying sailors and his wife surfaced. It was so much that the undercover senator pushed himself out of the crowd to the left side into an nearby alleyway.

Placing one of his hands on a wall Zamid breathed in and out. It took almost a minute but he finally calm down. Then he looked back at the crowded street from behind and shook his head with a silent no and turned around to see what looked to be an empty sidewalk at the other end of the alley. The Duros statesman proceeded to walk that way, approaching a trash dump when suddnely out of the darkness a shadowy figure came up from behind Zamid with a vibrio knife pressed at the blue alien’s neck.

Taken off guard Zamid remained silent while two more people(a Gamorran and an Niko), wearing rags from a dark corner on the right grinned at him. “Look what we have here guys. A newcomer dumb enough to waltz in our little spot.” Said the knife wielder who was a human with purple Mohawk and dark shades for glasses. The other two thugs snicker at their leader’s observation while Zamid at the reist the urge to gag in disgust or else forfeit his life.

“I’ll give you gentlemen credits just let me go and we forget this all happen.” Zamid replied to stay as calm as possible beneath his sweat. The knife man chuckled then said.

“That’s not how we roll down here sleemo. First we’re going have some fun, craving your ugly face. Then we will take the creds for ourselves. Considering it as an initation to the underworld.”

 

[Solyan]

"Such a dirty planet." He mused to himself. Solyan had lived many years and traveled much of the galaxy, and few places could rival the distinct feeling the Coruscant Underworld evoked within him, namely the feeling of taking a thorough shower. Of course, there were other slums spread throughout the galaxy, some even dankier and more depraved than even this one. Such a thought was a bit peculiar given that fact really. Perhaps Solyan felt the way he did because of the microcosm of what this place represented. In the upper districts of the planet, wealth, health, and happiness were projected heavily as a universal reality for those who dared dream of such a life being theirs. And yet, the 'roots' of the world proved such a reality as false, with the society rotten at its very core. It wasn't the fault of these people though. That much was clearly evident when you looked into their eyes. If they didn't immediately divert them, and if they weren't utter maniacs intent on confrontation, one could almost see a... desperation within them - a sense of hopelessness. As if the dreams they held so dearly had rotted within them and seeped into their bones.

Yes, Solyan had seen many slums and and districts that could only be described as the underbelly of society, but in many cases the people accepted their lot and made the best out of it. All he saw here was hopelessness and disparity between those who had means, and those who lacked even the most basic of means. And he knew he could do little to fix the underlying problem that propagated the stench of decay and rot of this place, save for brightening the days of a select few he would come across each day. But one thing he had come to know was that much could be learned by living amongst such people, especially about the... oh what did humans call it? The 'human condition?' Well, one could learn a great deal more about all species and their collective condition in such places. Many of these people were lost, and spending even some modicum of time here to guide even a select few on the proper path was a worthwhile endeavor. Was it the will of the force Solyan was here? Very doubtful, but surely it was not contrary to the will of the force was it?

The hulking Feeorin strolled down the dingy streets of the Coruscant underworld, his brown robes draped over his form loosely as they always were, his hood pulled over his head. He was hungry, and thirsty for some tea, both of which he eagerly looked forward to as he made his way to a local, family owned cafe. It wasn't much to look at, but the proprietors were kind and made good company, both traits a rarity in such places. The little boy whose parents served him always liked to ask him questions about what it was like to live for so long. Typically, Solyan merely laughed and stated some principled anecdote about having more time to acquire 'wisdom', to which the parents laughed and thereafter bid their son to get back to his chores. Really though, while the Feeorin was arguably entering the prime of his life, and had hardly even reached the halfway point of it, he had seen much in his life already - enough to at times envy the restful dead who had little other care in the world. It was an interesting thought really - to become one with the force, or to even have the privilege of remaining in the form of a force entity. Even as a child, he found the concept fascinating. Perhaps that would be the next topic of discussion with the young lad at the Cafe. If he made it there, after all.

But such a conclusion was hardly certain on the treacherous streets and back alleys of Coruscant, as a clearly unsuspecting Durosian male was about to find out. Solyan espied him from his peripheral vision as he rounded the corner, the Jedi pausing as he kept himself obscured behind the corner. Normally, he had little trouble passing by this way, with the thugs now menacing the Duros knowing such a proposition was not in their favor - to harry a Feeorin that towered over them, with rumors that he was a warrior serving as the worst kept secret in the sector. But he didn't recognize these thugs. Had they recently taken over this alleyway? That very well could be considering the gang violence this area was known for. By the look of things, it seemed these thugs weren't interested in just money. The look of murderous intent was evident on their faces, particularly the human's. "There is no emotion, there is peace." Sol thought to himself, as if steeling his resolve as he rounded the corner. His steps were altogether quiet but measured and riddled with purpose. "There is no passion, there is serenity." While his instinctual aggression had always been a problem for him to cope with, his mind was currently centered and his emotions kept in check as he broke his silence. "What seems to be the problem?"

He pulled back his hood, revealing his strong, pronounced features - his head tendrils hanging loosely over his shoulders. While it remained at his side, the glint of his lightsaber may well catch the eye of the thugs who were now surrounding the Duros. Altogether, he was the image of quiet resolve - with his immense stature also likely not hurting his chances of gaining some level of intimidation in the situation. He didn't want confrontation to be the first course of action, but he wasn't afraid of it.

@Minuteman75

 

[Zamid Sarlo]

Letting his guard for one moment and some scumbags with a murder fetish were on him. Zamid didn’t know who to be disgusted more, the thugs or his own careless self. He closed his eyes, preparing to make some form of peace.

I’m so sorry Lairle. Father loves you very much...

Just the Duros and his captors heard a voice behind them, asking if there was problem. They all turned and saw massive and imposing figure of a Feeorin was before them. The two goons in the back were nervous to say the least, their leader did not share that sentiment. Instead anger flared in the criminal’s face he snarled. “Mind your own kriffing business if you know what’s good for ya!”

“Ref I don’t know about messing with this one. He’s seems to have something on his side.” The Niko commented with a wary tone only to be answered with contempt by his boss.“Idiot, you and Po got blasters use em! We loot this meddler as well.”

Sighing, the Nikto and the green pig got in front of their good Ref and captive, drawing their blaster pistols. They opened fire with several shots, aiming for Solyn’s chest and stomach.

 

[Solyan]

In an instant, Solyan's lightsaber drifted from his belt and placed itself within his hands, a sudden burst of green emitting from it with a loud SNAP HISSS. As he summoned his weapon to his hands, he shifted to the left, allowing the first bolt to zip past, but not without singing the cloth of his robes and scorching the skin underneath. He grimaced slightly in pain, but he remained undeterred as he easily deflected the second blast into the durasteel panel of the building to his left. The following two shots he deflected back at his two attackers, reaching out with the force to pull both of their blasters from their hands to skid on the ground to his feet. "I do not wish to fight you, but I will if I must."

Solyan's voice was deep and resinous, mirroring the stone-like resolve reflected in his eyes. His voice grew deeper and more authoritative as he said: "You will leave this place, along with your weapons, and rethink the direction your lives are heading." While it was not obvious, he projected his will through the force as he attempted to touch the minds of the two thugs that had previously shot at him, meaning to persuade them to his desired course of action. They seemed to be more of the compliant nature given they chose to follow the human with the knife, which was why Solyan did not waste any time trying to use his abilities on him. While he was confident his attempt to influence the other two would work, he kept his saber in hand as he stood in the Soresu stance, ready to react defensively should the need arise. In that space of time, the Feeorin attempted to size up the human who held the Duros captive.

He could see the desperation in his eyes, but a very different type of desperation compared to what he had earlier noted in the demeanor of the typical denizens of this place. While he did not try to influence the human's actions as he had with the other two, he ventured forth with his mind to determine the man's emotional state. Perhaps it would help him gain insight into his seat of motivation. Was he really a hardened criminal as his actions were meant to project? Or was there some other need or desire that led him to this desperate course?

@Minuteman75

 

[Zamid Sarlo]

All of the muggers and Zamid were rendered speechless at the sight of the ignited lightsaber in the stranger’s hand who evade and blocked the laserfire. One didn’t need to be a genius to know the full implications of this sudden reveal...a Jedi Knight! The last two shots deflected struck the Gamorran in the right shoulder, causing the pig and the other hit the Nikto’s left hand who cried out in pain. Then to their collective horror the blasters were snatched by an invisible hand and flew to Solyan’s feet.

Subsequently the Knight spoke more once, giving a final warning and an authoritative command that Zamid recognize as a Jedi mind trick. The pig and the Nikto, despite the pain, scramble away for their lives. Abandoned by his men Ref though more wary than before remained defiant, shouting. “Make another step Jedi scum and this geezer is dead. Do you hear me?!”

While the head thug was distracted, Zamid seized the moment. He plunged his right foot on Ref’s feet, provoking him to let go of the Duros’ neck. Immediately the uncover senator smashed his head backward into the face of the bandit. Screaming in agony Ref dropped the vibroknife and grasped his now broken and bleeding nose with both hands. Not taking any chances the old alien grabbed Ref by the head and slammed it into the wall. Knocked unconscious the muderous thief slipped down on the ground moaning.

Spitting with disgust at the fallen figure, Zamid looked at his savior and said.“You have my thanks Jedi. I would’ve hated dying in this filthy place.”

 

[Solyan]

The Feeorin emitted a slight chuckle as the blade of his lightsaber retracted back into the hilt. He stepped toward the Duros while he clipped his weapon to his waist, his eyes carefully examining the man as he approached. It didn't appear that the Duros had any meaningful wounds or injuries, which was a good thing, and which also meant the Jedi could chuckle again without guilt. "You aren't from around here, are you?" To his memory, Solyan couldn't recall someone who lived in squalor being so quick to declare the area as 'filthy'. That simple fact combined with the mere manner in which the Duros carried himself indicated that he in fact did not live in the slums of the Coruscant Undercity.

"You are most welcome." Solyan said, as if remembering his manners. "I am Solyan, a knight of the Jedi Order as you have so accurately surmised. Before we continue with our introductions, I suggest we make our way to a safer venue." There was no telling whose attention they might have attracted with the sounds of blaster fire, be it law enforcement or more thugs nearby. The Jedi had no intention of remaining to discover which it would be. Without waiting, more or less assuming the Duros would follow him considering his near-death experience, the Feeorin turned and continued walking down the side of the street to the Cafe' he had earlier hope to visit, which stood only a few more blocks down.

The Jedi stepped through the door, with the proprietors offering him a warm smile as he moved over to his usual spot - a table with two chairs, one of which standing with its back to the wall, offering an acceptable means of observing the Cafe as a whole.

@Minuteman75

 

[Zamid Sarlo]

Zamid had no objection to the Jedi’s suggestion. It wouldn’t do any of them any good grab unwanted attention. He can see the headlines if the worst came to past Jedi and Senator plot in the underworld! That would be a curious way to end a career. Thought Sarlo, not that he shared the same grudge with the Order as do many in the galaxy.

It’s just the anti-Jedi sentiment was strong right now and he was new to his current role. The Duros statesman wanted to strengthen that position first before making his stance clear on that subject and many others. Following Solyan close behind Zamid glanced back briefly to make sure no one was tailing them. Once sure the politician stepped inside a modest cafe after the Feorrin. The wrinkle faced alien politely smiled at the owners before occupying a chair at opposite of Solyan.

“Now that we’re here it’s only fair that introduce myself. My name is Zamid Sarlo.”Glancing around to make sure no was in earshot he whispered.“I represent Duro in the Senate.”

 

[Solyan]

The son of the man and woman who owned the cafe' carried a small tray containing a pot of tea with two cups, approaching the pair with a mixture of eagerness upon seeing the Feeorin, and caution in the hopes of avoiding spilling the tea. Feeorin gave the boy a wide, genuine grin as he grasped the pot gingerly and set it on the table, with the boy depositing the cups, one in front of either patron. The Feeorin set three credits on the tray (even though he knew full well the tea only cost two), and nodded in appreciation at the boy. When the boy retreated, Solyan gave the Duros his undivided attention.

He had to admit that he wasn't as well informed into intergalactic politics as others may well have been. There were far too many worlds in the Republic for him to take the time to learn the representatives of all of them. Few species could live as long as he could, so in his perspective their tenure in their position seemed fleeting at best. Even still, he gave the Senator a nod of respect. "It is a pleasure to meet you, Senator. However, I must admit -" He paused briefly, as if thinking of the best way to word what came next: "To find a politician of your stature in the Coruscant Undercity is quite puzzling, for what I assume to be quite obvious reasons."

Solyan checked the tea, with it already being well brewed (as was often the case since this was near the usual time he arrived for his daily 'vice'), and filled his cup. He offered the Durosian some tea before setting the pot down. He waited before sipping it, allowing the liquid to cool before he dared touch his lips or tongue to the steaming cup. "What, may I ask, brings you down here?"

@Minuteman75

 

[Zamid Sarlo]

The old Durosian smiled at the lad who brought their tray and said.”Thank you boy.”Zamid was reaching for one of his pockets to pay when his new associate did it first. Judging by the relaxed state the Jedi displayed, the elder from Duro could guess that he was on favorable terms with this establishment. Very useful Zamid thought.

It had been a long time since Zamid had been in the company of Jedi. He couldn’t deny feeling a little nostalgic and then shame. How did the Republic repay the Order was for all their sacrifice? Nothing but contempt and rejection. Granted he knew the guardians were far from perfect and the Exiles originally spawn off from them.

Yet when it counted, they put their entire existence on the line to save the galaxy. They bled, suffer, and died alongside with us...we’re a bunch of ungrateful bastards. It’s no wonder they broke and disappeared from the public view. The senator mused to himself when Solyan asked his question.

Zamid suddnely remembered where they were and chuckle lightly in amusement at the confusion he must bringing to the Knight. He nodded yes, letting Solyan pour tea into his cup. Smelt good to him but Sarlo decided that it would be best let the tea cool down first and focus on making a reply.

“What’s a public official doing in the underworld? Ah yes one understands the suspicion the image would generate. Rest assure Solyan I’m not taking part in any criminal activities. If that had been the case I wouldn’t have revealed my rank to you so casually.”

Subsequently, Zamid looked down at his reflection in the tea filled cup briefly. Fixing red eyes back to the giant of a Jedi he added.“My purpose here Solyan is what you would call reconnaissance into unknown territory. Despite my age I’m only recently appointed to this post. So the need to gather intel about my new surroundings is necessary and plus like to handle things myself.”

 

[Solyan]

Solyan emitted another chuckle after Zamid answered his question. "Forgive me, Senator." He chuckled slightly again as he continued: "I-I meant to imply that the 'obvious reasons' for it being puzzling that you are here is with the ease in which you were accosted. I certainly did not mean to imply otherwise. But I'm glad my comment was not taken with offense either way." It was of course good to know that Zamid, at least based on his claims, was not in league with the criminal underworld. The Jedi sensed no deception within him, but it would not be the first time that a well practiced mind could successfully overcome such passive probings.

What Solyan could sense though was a level of... respect from the Senator. He obviously could not read the man's thoughts, but from his body language, to the faint whispers of emotion he was shedding in the force, overall Solyan quickly became convinced he had nothing to suspect or fear about this man, at least when it came to underworld criminal activity. Not that such a thing was of his concern really. In fact, Solyan had the faintest hint of admiration coming from the Senator. As Zamid went on to explain himself further to the Jedi, namely his innate internal responsibility to see for himself the state of affairs amongst the people of the Republic's capital, the Feeorin had to admit that he found the goal refreshing and altogether charming to see in someone in political office. While, as said earlier, he had never really delved much into learning about the politics of the Republic to any real depth except what was necessary to accomplish his prior tasks, he did know that it was all too unfortunately common to see politicians who cared more for themselves as opposed to the ones they were supposed to represent.

"That is a commendable initiative, Senator. It is not every day that one hears about a man in your position willing to walk in the footsteps of those he hopes to empathize with." The Jedi's comments were genuine, and all the more pleasant as he now hoped to enjoy his first sip of tea. He raised his cup and blew the rising steam away gently before venturing a sip. The tea was still obviously hot, but it was beginning to cool to a much more tolerable temperature. "Was there something specific that has led you to the perceived need to gather necessary intel within the less fortunate areas of the city?"

To be honest, Solyan had no real idea as to whether or not Zamid was holding anything back. On one hand, why should the Duros? Solyan had saved his life, therefore if anything there was more incentive to involve the Jedi if something was wrong. And as earlier hinted, Sol did not sense deception or an attempt to be deceptive. But the notion of just 'walking around' the bad portion of town simply to gain intelligence struck the Jedi as an odd behavior unless there was something specific the Senator was looking for.

 

[Zamid Sarlo]

At the praise, Zamid waves his right hand dismissively.”The only thing I accomplished so far in this venture is getting myself nearly killed. Of course that fate was averted thanks to your timely intervention.”It was the truth in Sarlo’s eyes, if it had not been for this Knight, then his daughter back home would’ve become an orphan.

She feels like one at times and I don’t blame her for thinking that way. The reminder stabbed deeply into Sarlo’s soul. The politician would be the first to recognize it; he haven’t been the best father for Larille. Sure Zamid can try justifying it by pointing out he never abused his girl in any fashion but the man wasn’t one to not sugarcoat flaws. No, his crime toward Larille was unquestionably neglect.

To get his mind off the bombardment of condemnations that now assail him, Zamid lifted the tea cup and sipped. Good stuff taste better than the crap they serve up in the overrated restaurant near the senate. Zamid then back to reality when the next inquiry began. With a sigh born of great weariness Sarlo explained.

“Investigating corruption good sir. To be more precise to hunt for possible links from here in the lower levels to the senate. C’mon Solyan let’s be honest with ourself. Prostitutes have a better reputation than politicians. At least escorts are generally more honest about what they want.”

 

[Solyan]

"You obviously haven't encountered the prostitutes in these slums." Solyan said in a slightly joking tone just before he took another sip of tea. But, his expression soon changed as he calmly added: "Not that I have a lot of personal encounters with them, of course. But they tend to be rather forward whether you are looking for them or not, and not always are straightforward as to the purpose until it's convenient for them. As I've... observed."

"But regardless, I understand your meaning." Solyan finally said, as if to redirect the conversation. "Corruption you say. Now that's a very disturbing revelation." To say that the Feeorin wasn't even mildly interested in addressing some of the severe corruption this Senator may well have been alluding to would be a gross misrepresentation of the facts. To deal with a few thugs now and again was one thing, but to expose a litany of corruption was another entirely.

"Could I be of assistance in your endeavor, Senator?"

 

[Zamid Sarlo]

“I’ll take your word for it.”Said Zamid at his new companion’s reply with a light smile. Inwardly the senator was pleased to have found a Jedi with a sense of humor. Going back on, topic he paid attention to how the Jedi reacted. The body tense up and there was a sense of wariness from the expression it seemed.

Sarlo didn’t require the force to recognize why Solyan was cautious. It is only natural when one thinks about the rancor in the room. Such a term would be appropriate given how strong graft really is here. The Duros held no grand illusions that it will all be swiped away overnight.

There are some battles that must be fought regardless. My time during the war taught me that much. Drinking more of the tea now less hot than before Zamid gather his thoughts and wipe the mouth with the left sleeve. Done he answer back.

“Any insight you may have on the criminal situation at these neighborhoods would be appreciated. To start with, the names of the strongest gangs that roam the streets if you posses that information.”

 

[Solyan]

"Street gangs you say... Hmm..." Solyan said pensively, his hand reaching up to his chin as he thought further on the subject for a few moments. For the most part, most of the criminal gangs in this sector blended together given they often were offshoots from other gangs due to some disagreement or other. After a few moments of contemplation, the Jedi spoke again. "There are three gangs of note, if memory serves. Any others are far too small to pose any major threat aside from small scale spice dealing and roughing people up in the back alleys." Solyan sipped his tea once again before he went on to list the three he mentioned.

"From what i can tell, they divide the three major vices between them. The Bak'jal Vass are the primary players in the spice and black market stim trade, with contacts in the Outer Rim and the Senate, to keep their supply constantly flowing without too many prying eyes. You don't see too many of their thugs out in force unless a debt needs to be paid." The Jedi refreshed his tea and squeezed a lemon slice into the now-newly warmed cup. He grasped a small spoon and stirred as he continued: "The Smiling Jeks own the sex trade, with most of the 'ladies of the night' lining their pockets. I have heard disturbing rumors however that most of their "courtesans" are actually illegally acquired slaves kidnapped from all manner of planets in the Core and Mid Rim. Then there's arguably the most powerful of them all: The Jade Moon Empire ."

The very whisper of that name seemed to evoke fear, as even the normally calm and jovial proprieters of the cafe seemed to ball and glance over at Solyan as they overheard him mention them. "They have their hands in the money laundering and payroll game. Supposedly they have a stake in the most profitable underground casinos on Coruscant, and use their considerable wealth to bankroll the other gangs with loans and seed money, as well as to even buy off local police precincts. Why do you think no one was around to help you around here?"

 

[Zamid Sarlo]

Sarlo made sure to write carefully the details Solyan just now provided. It was more than enough information he ever hoped to gain in one rotation. It sounded like he had his work cut out for him. All the more reason to develop a network here and gather further evidence but slowly piece by piece. Given the opposition listed and the possible government connections these gangs will likely have the use of discretion in this matter will be of the upmost importance.

Noticing the fear on the cafe owners’ expressions Zamid realized he must not probe anymore for details, for the time being. Looking back at the Jedi he decided to change the subject.”You know Solyan you’re not the first of your kind I met before.”Pausing to sip some more Zamid then explained.”Back when the Republic was still fighting the war I was in the navy. Fought beside a number of your brothers and sisters.”

He let that fact sink before adding.“I admired many of them though there were a few who earned my disdain with the way they acted like bloody exiles. Regardless this old fool wouldn’t be here drinking tea with you if weren’t for your order. “

 

[Solyan]

Despite the fear that momentarily gripped the owners of the shop, Solyan maintained a calm and composed demeanor in the hopes it would help ease the nerves of the others. True to his expectation, it seemed the trio were able to calm down after glancing at him, with the Feeorin offering a reassuring smile as if to apologize for mentioning the very thought of those who sought to oppress those who lived here. It was then that the Duros senator chose to direct the conversation elsewhere, namely to that of the Jedi. He knew all too well how his bretheren had the habit of acting while in the throes of combat, and the Senator was putting it very mildly, particularly in reference to the more zealous of his order on Jedha. And as much as he hated to admit it, he was not immune to the passion that permeated the entire conflict. Only the most disciplined of his order were able to avoid the bloodlust that threatened to envelope the order, and even then, none who survived the conflict did so unscathed. He often found himself wondering how Wyck had managed to carry himself as he did after all he had seen. Few Jedi save himself and Wyck could claim to have lived through the entire conflict.

"I know what you mean all too well, Senator. I remember when it all started..." Quite unintentionally, Sol had betrayed his age if the Senator was insightful enough to pick up on it. "We were young men and women then. Sure, we had the teachings of the order to temper the hormones that naturally come with such youth for most species. Some were able to cope better than others, obviously." The Jedi took another sip of his tea and looked off to nowhere in particular. Such memories were not happy ones for the Feeorin, as he could still glimpse the faces of those he would never see again save within his mind, being present as his own brothers died at his side, or even at his blade.

It took several moments for the Jedi to snap back into reality, as if emerging from a trance, with his smile returning to his face as he cleared his throat and took another sip. He was able to compose himself masterfully as he too sought to redirect the conversation. "You were in the navy? That must have been adventurous. I'm sure you have a unique perspective to the galaxy's most recent events as compared to your colleagues. What do you make of things, from what's been going on on Alderaan and in the Outer Rim?"

 

[Zamid Sarlo]

It was a living hell for all of us, no doubt about that. Zamid quietly admitted at the end of Sol’s side of the story. Then suddenly he caught the fact the Jedi confessed of being there since the beginning of the war.“Damn, that’s rough Solyon.”The uncover official remarked.

He then looked as the Jedi stared out as if in another place and time. It was something very familiar since it happen to him often. When Solyon returned to himself Sarlo grin back. Upon hearing the subsequent questions Zamid placed the tea cup down, preparing to give an answer.

“Not exactly the only war veteran in the senate, but we’re few and far between. Aside from the carnage I am proud of my navel career along with the men and women I had the pleasure of serving with.”Zamid paused, choosing his following words carefully.

“As for my view on the events of Alderaan and the Outer Rim well...it is rather complicated. On one hand I wish we can do more now but reality is a harsh mistress. The senate will discuss the situation on Alderaan believe me but there isn’t much can be done directly given the non-intervention policy. Unless evidence, clear and undeniable is presented our hands are tied and the Outer Rim is beyond our reach for the time being.”

 

[Solyan]

"I see." Solyan said with a grin before finishing his cup of tea. Thus far, it appeared the pair had finished the pot, with the Jedi more than satisfied with his daily indulgence. The Feeorin looked over at the family and nodded his thanks before redirecting his attention back to the Senator. "Well, if there is no other way I can help you Senator, I will escort you back to the upper district if you require it."

The Jedi had enjoyed their conversation, and his tone was kind and appreciative for the company the Senator had presented.

 

[Zamid Sarlo]

Politely waving a hand off Zamid answered.”Appreciate the generous offer Solyan but that won’t be necessary. I know the way back to the upper levels without getting into further trouble.”Finishing the last of his tea Zamid proceeded to place some extra coins on the table as a tip to the cafe family. Privately the Duros decided it would be wise to not return to this establishment again.

They’re good people with great service but I don’t want to place them at risk with my future investigations. He displayed a grateful expression to them and bowed with the head. When done Zamid got up from the table and pushed in the chair, before whispering to Solyan.“Its been pleasure Master Jedi and may the Force be with you.”

With their business concluded Zamid proceeded to exit from the cafe and headed for a public street to avoid another mugging. As he walked on Senator Sarlo couldn’t help but reflect. Been quite the experience to say the least. It’s not every rotation one gets saved by a Jedi Knight then have tea with him afterward. The Durosian knew there was much work to be done but this encounter now it had light a spark in his soul.

OOC: The End​