Ask Ansion: Down with the Sickness

[Hassan Pyker]

THEME​

Hassan and T'vani had been on Ansison for a few weeks. They had settled into a large four bedroom apartment towards the middle of the capital city. It would serve as both their living quarters, training area, and a small enclave. For the initial part of T'vani's training, Hassan had been focusing on lightsaber combat. This was T'vani's weakest area in his opinion, so it only made sense for him to focus on it until it came up to par with the rest of her skills. During this time, Hassan and T'vani had kept a close eye on the endemic that seemed to be spreading through the country-side, impacting many rural communities.

This disease had come to be known as the "Rotting plague" as it acted like a hyper-aggressive form of leprosy. It spread through physical contact and bodily fluids of the infected. What had begun to puzzle Hassan was how this disease was spreading so quickly, it didn't align with other diseases that he'd seen in the past. As such, he eventually reached out to one of the most well-known healers and doctors in the Galaxy, Clove Vanhoop. His message to her explained the situation on Anison and the peculiarities of what was occurring. He requested her immediate aid in dealing with this disease before it somehow spread into the capital and a true pandemic began.

That message had been sent three days ago and the worst case scenario had come true.

While there were only a few cases of infections that popped up in lower districts, it was still a concerning pattern. Hassan had T'vani take precautions when they were out of their apartment and in the city. While they were Jedi and they had to be a symbol of hope to the people, they still couldn't afford to get sick either.

Today, the pair had arrived at the spaceport to pick up Clove. Hassan had ensured that she would have a comfortable room in their apartment. He prayed to the Force that she'd be able to help them resolve this case and whatever was plaguing the people of Ansion.

"Remember T'vani, ask questions while Clove is here." He whispered. "She has a wealth of knowledge and can teach you things that I cannot." He explained to his Padawan. "Learn as much as you can from her." He instructed with a gentle tone.

@Remileah @LilyNion

 

[T'vani]

Location: Ansion

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___Ever since T'vani and Hassan arrived on Ansion, the situation had deteriorated. The disease dogging the settlements was spreading at an alarming rate, with dozens of new cases being reported with every day that passed by. While the confirmations of the sickness within city limits were limited, T'vani knew it was only a matter of time. It proliferated far too fast to remain contained for long. Even if exposed people showed no symptoms, they were still carriers, and that seemed to be all needed for the disease to continue spreading.

___When the two had left to meet the prestigious healer Hassan called, T'vani donned a rebreather and clothed herself in something she wouldn't mind disposing of later. They couldn't take too many precautions while venturing around the city, and if either she or Hassan became sick, the time it would take to find a cure would be drastically extended. T'vani had secured an extra rebreather for Clove, storing it safely in one of the pouches of her utility belt Hassan had given her.

___"I will, Master," T'vani answered, her voice carrying a subtle robotic sound as it was processed through her mask. "I want to learn more about healing, so this is a great chance to do that. I read about the Jedi Sages," she added, looking up at Hassan. "I'd love to follow their path. I won't let this opportunity go to waste, I promise."

@Apollyon @LilyNion

 

[Clove Vanhoop]

Clove's days as a trainee veterinarian, although she was more than skilled enough to be considered a full-fleshed veterinarian, were simple. Calm. Nobody was looking for her, or her help. Only if it surrounded Zara. And that was fine with her, or so she told herself.

So she was confused when she was contacted, by a Jedi Knight no less, with a request for help. She became even more confused when her heart began to flutter with excitement. To be honest though, Clove wasn't sure if she was the right person. It had been a long time since she had worked as a proper doctor, let alone a healer. And her Force... For a split second, the half-Annfyn looked at her hand, idly attempting to channel the Force. Nothing. Just like any other day she tried.

But after giving it some thought for several hours, Clove suddenly decided what she wanted to do and turned to face her closet, opening it to reveal her black armor and pink suit behind it. She looked at it, a rush of emotions coursing through her, eventually leading her to the conclusion that that suit needed to be changed. Fortunately, she had a few days before they met, and she knew a few of her mother's friends who were willing to help her in making a new outfit, if only out of pity.

And when the final day came, Clove sent Altair a message; they'd gotten into the habit of informing each other if one of them was going to be gone for an extended period of time, or if they were in a potentially dangerous situation, just for Zara's sake. Although, until today, it was usually Altair who kept her up to date, she hadn't had a reason to do so. Regardless, she made sure to clarify she'd be wearing her armor and that she wasn't in any real danger. To Clove's surprise, he responded with concern, asking if he needed to be there and if she needed any escorting. She would have agreed to his military escorts in the past, but... a little voice in her head told her to refuse. And she understood that little voice right away; she wanted to show him that she was capable again. That she was overcoming her flaws and that he could trust her again. And it wasn't just to Altair; she wanted to prove it to herself just as badly. To be honest, she had no idea how accurate any of those thoughts were. She'd only been in therapy for a month or two, and this was her first 'mission' in years. But that didn't stop her. So Clove quickly reassured him that she'd be okay, but that she'll keep him up to date.

——​

The half-Annfyn stepped out of the Sundrop wearing her new white dress, her mother's pink coat over her torso, and her armor stuffed in her leather bag next to her trusty old medical kit. Her hair was held up in a messy ponytail, easier for work. Bib, a majestic white creature with large, graceful wings, trailed behind her. He flapped his wings, stretching his muscles after being cramped for so long in such a small ship. Clove and Bib were both wearing rebreathers—it was near impossible to find one for a creature like Bib but she eventually succeeded—but she didn't think she'd be in any danger in the starport itself. Still, one can never be too cautious. She'd done some research on her flight to Ansison, and the illness was strange and aggressive.

Despite her confidence, Clove felt strangely shy as she looked around the starport for the Jedi who had contacted her. Although he wasn't hard to miss, the same for the little girl who was standing next to him. She took a deep breath and approached the two, gracefully waving her hand to greet them. "You must be Hassan Pyker." Clove spoke up once she was close enough, her voice gentle and soft despite the metallic filter from the rebreather. "And you must be T'vani. It's a pleasure to meet both of you." She lowered her upper body, a habit she picked up while in the Jedi Order and never forgot. "Thank you for inviting me."

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[Hassan Pyker]

Hassan smiled behind his rebreather as T'vani reassured him that she would ask questions and pay attention to Clove's answers. He hadn't seen T'vani this excited since their adventure first started weeks ago, that was what assured him. He gently patted the top of her head and chuckled a sound that came out as tinny through the rebreather.

"I believe that you will make a wonderful Sage one day my young Padawan." He replied.

As with all his Padawans before her, Hassan was beginning to view T'vani as less a student and more akin to his own daughter. It wasn't entirely unexpected, the pair spent every day together and ate almost every meal together. Time strengthened the bond between Master and Apprentice, something that would only continue to be true. Hassan was eventually drawn out of his thoughts as he caught a blonde Annfyn who waved at them from his periphery. His calm brown eyes lifted from his student to gaze at their guest, Clove Vanhoop.

Hassan would take several steps towards Clove as she approached, the expectation that T'vani would be only a pace behind him and on his right hand side, went without saying. Hassan bowed at the waist to Clove once she identified them both. "Indeed." Hassan chuckled. "I'm Jedi Knight Pyker and this is my Padawan learner, T'vani." Hassan confirmed gesturing to T'vani without looking back. "We are Jedi Watchmen assigned to ensure peace and safety within the sector." He explained as he gestured for Clove to follow him. "And it's us that should be thanking you, we are very glad you agreed to help the people of Ansion, Doctor Vanhoop." He continued.

Hassan would wordlessly take any bags that Clove might be carrying and guide the trio back to their speeder. On the way to the speeder, he'd allow for T'vani to ask a few questions or make small talk if she chose. However, once they were within the speeder and Hassan was driving them back to the apartment, he would begin explaining the developments since their last exchange of messages. He would explain that three days ago, the disease had finally breached the quarantine the capital city was placed under. Those too poor to stay home and not work were the Ansionians that were impacted the hardest. The concern in Hassan's voice was evident as he explained how dire the situation had truly become.

"I am hoping that with your insights, Doctor we will be able to curb this illness before it claims even more lives." Hassan stated towards the end of his explanation. "This is us." Hassan said as he nodded to their apartment building, it was no Jedi Temple, but it was home and it was safe.

Once again, Hassan would help carry Clove's bags up to the apartment and place them by the wall outside the room she'd be staying in. "While you are staying with us, this will be your room Doctor." Hassan explained. "Why don't you get settled in? I'll have the kitchen droid prepare us all something to eat. We can continue discussions over lunch." Hassan continued. "Unless you'd prefer your own lodgings, then I can arrange something for you." He offered quickly.

@Remileah @LilyNion

 

[T'vani]

___T'vani beamed when Hassan offered his reassurance. Before she could react, Hassan pivoted away, and her gaze followed. The girl tracked closely after her master as he approached, and as he introduced her, T'vani sank into a low, respectful bow.

___"It's a pleasure to meet you," T'vani said with a smile. She remained silent as Hassan concluded introductions and conveyed his gratitude for the doctor's arrival. The Padawan nodded along with his words, maintaining her smile. As he moved to relieve the woman of her bags, T'vani followed suit, ladening herself with anything Hassan could not carry. When they began walking back to the speeder to leave, the young girl didn't hesitate to ask Clove questions for even a moment.

___"Lady Clove, is it true that someone doesn't need to display symptoms to transfer a sickness to somebody else?" T'vani inquired. "I've heard that some illnesses can spread even if someone doesn't have any signs they're sick, and I think that might be something that's happening here," she finished. She loaded Clove's belongings into the speeder and allowed the other woman to enter before her, sitting in one of the back seats. T'vani remained silent for the trip to enable Hassan to bring her up to speed about the situation.

___When they arrived, T'vani began retrieving bags to ferry them inside with her master.

@Apollyon @LilyNion

 

[Clove Vanhoop]

Doctor Vanhoop. Clove stared at the Jedi Knight, dumbfounded by the title. Doctor Vanhoop? She was used to Star Lady Vanhoop, Miss Vanhoop, and Jedi Knight Vanhoop, but Doctor Vanhoop? But she couldn't say she was bothered by it. It was a very neutral title. Clove's chocolate brown eyes scanned the two, her small and delicate smile returning to her lips. "Of course, it's my pleasure to help."

She couldn't object to having her luggage carried for her because the Jedi Knight had already politely grabbed her belongings without a word or even a warning. Thankfully, it was only a small duffle bag containing clothes and her rifle, as well as her leather bag containing her usual day-to-day items and armor, so she didn't feel too guilty. The half-Annfyn followed the two towards the speeder, but there was no silence; the Padawan immediately returned her gaze to Clove, asking her a question. Clove laughed softly in return, amused.

"You're right. In fact, some diseases, such as the common flu, make you contagious even before the symptoms appear." She explained, her fluted ears perked up, her eyes glistened with a slight sparkle that had often been missing for the last few years; she was clearly in her element and any shyness had vanished. "It's also possible that the symptoms never appear. It is somewhat more difficult for the disease to spread without symptoms, depending on the disease. Anything that is airborne, for example, becomes more dangerous the more frequently someone sneezes or coughs. Still, that doesn't mean they can't spread it."

Clove was silent for a moment, contemplating the Padawan's theory. "Hmm. Perhaps. It spreads via bodily fluids and physical contact." She murmured to herself. "Yes, the absence of symptoms would make people less cautious. It only takes one innocent kiss to spread. Your theory could be correct." she said proudly to the girl. Still. It didn't sit right with her; it was unlike anything she'd seen before.

Clove sat in the front of the speeder not long after, neatly correcting her skirt and sleeves before folding her hands on her lap. That's when the Jedi Knight gave her an update on the situation, confirming Clove's suspicions. So quickly breaching quarantine? Even if the Padawan's theory was correct, that was still absurdly aggressive. She nodded, paying close attention to any details he gave her, her eyes betraying her concern and worry. She hadn't even noticed their surroundings or where Hassan had driven them until they began to slow down. "We'll do what must be done to make sure it comes to an end." She replied, then followed his gaze to their apartment.

It wasn't much or fancy, but it felt cozy and welcoming. That was more than enough for her. "Oh, no, I'd like to stay here if it's not a burden. Thank you so much; this is very kind of you. Both of you." Clove bowed her head in thanks to both Jedi before reaching for her leather bag. "I'll freshen myself up and meet you both for lunch."

The half-Annfyn entered the room where she'd be staying for the next few days, taking a look around. The bed looked comfortable, there was a nice chair to lounge in and a place to store her belongings; she'd be more than fine in here. She let out a sigh of relief as she made her way to the shower. It took a second for her to fiddle with the buttons—most planets had different showering systems, with the only thing in common being that it was a shower—but she figured it out quickly enough and stepped under the steamy hot water. And, for the first time since receiving the message, she allowed herself to lower her shoulders and relax. She was safe, protected, and in good company.

After taking a slightly too long shower and finishing her curly hair routine as quickly as she could, she got dressed again and made her way towards where she assumed the dining table would be.

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[Hassan Pyker]

Hassan smiled as Clove came into the kitchen. Dinner had been served not too long before she arrived. Hassan gestured for her to take a seat and “enjoy” her meal. In truth it wasn’t exactly delicious but it was healthy and had all the caloric intake they’d need to remain fit.

“T’vani should be down soon.” Hassan began. “I wanted to thank you again for coming. The people here need all the help they can get.” He explained. “And so do I.” He admitted with a sigh. “I know I’m over my head with this.” He stated with a sigh. “I’ve a Watchman for nearly a decade now and I’ve never seen anything like this.” He shook his head. “It’s like this disease just drains the life from people.” He explained before pausing.

He’d swallow hard and glance out into the foyer leading to the kitchen. He wanted to be sure T’vani couldn’t hear his concern in this. His jaw tightened before he spoke.

“I sense the Dark Side’s presence…” He whispered. “…I’m not sure if she’s ready to face what that really means.” He confessed. “And I am unsure if I can protect her from it.”

@Remileah @LilyNion

 

[Clove Vanhoop]

Clove walked over, taking her commlink off her belt after gently returning Hassan's smile. Her fingers danced across the screen, and in seconds, she texted Altair(@Sreeya); "I've arrived safely and they've given me a secure room. Give Zara a kiss for me, I miss her already." She wasn't sure if texting him was a good idea; after all, their relationship was uncertain at best. But he seemed concerned, and most of the pain she'd caused in the past was by disappearing with not a single word, so she'd rather send him one message too many if necessary.

The half-Annfyn lowered her commlink and sat down more comfortably after that. The food wasn't particularly special, but it reminded her of... an old home. The Jedi order. Simple, healthy and all you'd need. In a way it was comforting. So she was eager to take a bite. Her chocolate brown eyes shifted to Hassan as she chewed and dabbed at her lips with a napkin. She listened to his explanation and swallowed her bite, debating what to say as he paused.

The mention of the Dark Side's presence however made Clove stop for a second, visibly so. She couldn't blame him for his concern, no, but... Hm. That complicated the matter. Why would the Dark side be present? Was it just a byproduct of the large amount of death that whispered in the air, enticing Darksiders? Or was there something else going on?

Clove unfroze and responded to the man in a gentle and soft tone. "I'm glad you asked me to come, truly. And I can understand your concern. According to what you've told me, I've never seen anything like this before. I'm... extremely concerned about the citizens, especially if you sense the Dark Side's presence." She paused, her ears slightly lowered. "Listen... I no longer... feel... the Dark side. But I'm confident that we can protect her. I was unfortunate enough to experience the Dark Side's impact as a young Padawan," She shuddered, thinking back about Raze, "and while we haven't spoken much yet, I know you are a skilled, caring and kind man. I'm sure she'll be okay."

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tag @Remileah @Apollyon ​

 

[T'vani]

___T'vani ferried Clove's various articles from the speeder into the house and up the stairs to her room. As she started to descend the steps again, her ears flicked. The girl's attentive hearing caught Hassan's words to Clove, expressing his uncertainty about the fresh Padawan's ability to face what the dark side really meant, whatever that meant. A frown creased her lips, tugging down the corners of her mouth as her ears fanned back against her head. Clove's reply did little to raise her spirits, even after she expressed affirmation that they could protect her.

___Protect her from what? Questions swam and churned in T'vani's mind as she contemplated the meaning behind their words. If she was to become a Jedi Knight, would she not have to face the dark side? What were they so keen on protecting her from? Last but not least, what powers of that side of the Force could start such a virulent plague? There was still so much she had left to learn, and it was almost disheartening that the person tasked with teaching her wanted to shield her from it. How could she become a proper Jedi if he did that?

___T'vani sighed under her breath. She retreated quietly back up the stairs a short ways before coming back down, tapping her feet with purpose on each step as she went to announce her presence and hopefully cover that she had been eavesdropping on the two. As the girl reached the landing, she smiled brightly.

___"All of your belongings are in your room now, Lady Clove," T'vani chirped. "I set everything neatly in the corner. I didn't open or try to place anything for you. It didn't feel right to go through your things, even though I wanted to help more," she stated. "Is there anything else I can do to help, Lady Clove? Master?" T'vani inquired, carmine eyes darting between the two.

@Apollyon @LilyNion

 

[Hassan Pyker]

Hassan's brow remained furrowed as Clove spoke but he finally let out a sigh and shook his head. "Perhaps you're right." Hassan replied. "I am just concerned, normally we have more time before this kind of confrontation." He explained. "And normally it's something I've already faced at least on-"

Hassan's voice abruptly as he heard footsteps falling as Vani was coming into the room. Hassan would put on a smile when his Padawan walked into the room. When Vani warmly informed them of her tasks being accomplished, Hassan nodded towards the seat beside Clove.

"Vani..." He stated in an uneasy voice. "...there is something we should discuss. Grab some food and sit down please." He began once more. Hassan would wait for Vani to get settled before speaking once more. His gaze would flick to Clove and then back to his Padawan. "Vani, I have reason to believe that this disease isn't naturally occurring." He said in an even, calm tone. "I believe this is a product of the Dark Side of the Force." His characteristic smile faded as he said the words. "If I am right, I need you to be extra cautious." He instructed. "Because I am not sure how I can protect you against this."

@LilyNion @Remileah

 

[Clove Vanhoop]

Clove looked at Hassan, who shook his head and lowered his brow. He was truly concerned about his Padawan. She wanted to say something, but she was never given the opportunity; even Hassan was unable to finish his sentence because the Padawan's footsteps filled the room. Normally she'd hear those things, but with her attention on the Jedi Knight and her own slight nervousness, they must have slipped right by her.

Her gaze shifted to the girl, who warmly stated that she had placed all of Clove's belongings in her room and had not touched any of them. It was a kind gesture, albeit unnecessary, given that she had very little to hide. Clove smiled gently and lowered her head in respect for the Padawan. "Thank you; that's very thoughtful of you. I don't need anything else; you've done way more than enough for me already."

But while Clove kept things light, Hassan changed the tone. To be honest, she didn't expect him to immediately open up to the Padawan and tell her the truth, including his concerns about the Darkside. He even admitted he didn't know how to protect the girl. Clove's eyes widened in surprise. His blunt words reminded her of her own master, Crix. He, too, told her the truth, without filtering. Unafraid to put her in a difficult situation, teaching her by seeing the world rather than books, for better or worse.

Yes. She was sure that her feelings were right. He was an incredible Jedi Knight, and she was a young Padawan with great potential. And in that moment, she became determined to protect not only the planet, but also these two Jedi.

"Before this causes any concern for you... Well, I told your Master the same thing, but when I was your age, I had to deal with the Darkside rather... brutally. I had to handle Darth Raze in my mind, so I got my share of knowledge. And your Master seems to know what he's talking about, and he genuinely cares for you. So we'll protect you, even though I'm confident in your abilities. You seem well trained." Clove offered Vani a gentle smile.

"Regarding the issue." Clove shifted in her seat, her palms resting on the table and her ears perked slightly. "Master Pyker, do you have any plans? Because I've been wondering if we have access to any samples or bodies to study? It might be a good starting point!"

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