Ask [Dressel] Catch Me if You Can

[Yuuta Graves]

Spoiler: Mission Brief

Dres-sell Them on the ISC

A team of two Rangers investigates the attack that killed the ISC ambassador, with the intent of identifying and arresting those responsible. They are given full authority by both the ISC and the Dressel council to use any means possible. Capturing the dissenters will show the council what the ISC has to offer in the forms of a swift and effective justice system.

—
​

"Please, be careful!"

He was tasked and paired up with a fellow Ranger to investigate and apprehend the culprit behind an ISC ambassador's death here on Dressel and yet Yuuta Graves, of all people, found himself climbing a tree and coaxing a terrified loth-kitten to come to him as the poor creature clung to a branch that was barely out of his reach. A young Dresselian girl had approached the Ranger timidly, seeking his help, and who was he to say no to the tiny ankle biter?

He still had some time to spare, he reasoned to himself. Ten minutes before his appointed meet up with his partner for this operation, a Tiss'Shar named Ul-Rha-Shan. Admittedly Yuuta didn't personally know who his fellow Ranger might be, but higher-ups advised the human not to bring up the topic of slavery when conversing with his colleague. Rightful anger had sparked in Yuuta's heart at the implication of the warning, and he took it upon himself to befriend the Tiss Ranger, as well as heeding the higher-ups' words.

The dark-haired male withdrew his outstretched hand, not needing to sens through the Force the loth-kitten's distress. The poor thing was too shaken and a little intimidated by the hand that was trying to carefully grab it. Yuuta had to think of an alternative before the small creature made for higher ground out of fear. A smile flashed on his face as he reached for the vibrosword slung on his back, sliding it off of him and holding it hilt first out towards the loth-kitten. Still in its scabbard and sword bag, Yuuta hoped that the creature would have the sense to use it as a sort of a bridge to help itself get off the branch.

"C'mon, little one," he coaxed the loth-kitten, his smile growing wider as it blinked down at him. "You can do it. Your friend's waiting for you down there, see!"

After much encouragement from both the human Ranger and the Dresselian child, the loth-kitten made a beeline across Yuuta's sword then settling itself on his shoulder. Claws lightly dug on his clothing as the creature burrowed it's fuzzy face on his neck.

"T-Thank you so much for your help, m-mister!" the little girl exclaimed moments later as both Ranger and loth-kitten made it safely back on the ground. Handing off the kitten to its owner and giving the child one last pat on the head, Yuuta waved goodbye at the tiny ankle biter as she set off for her home.

"Aw, if Marizo's here I'm sure I would already have a kiss on the cheek for being a nice guy," the Ranger mused to himself, pink dusting his cheeks and pouting as his thoughts immediately went to his beloved wife. It took Yuuta a moment to pull himself away from mentally gushing about having the best wife in the entire galaxy and switched back to whatever semblance of professionalism he possessed.

As much as he wanted to think of the woman he loved the most, Yuuta Graves still had a duty to uphold.

Slinging the sword bag back to one shoulder and making sure that his DG-34 Peacemaker was holstered securely on one thigh, Yuuta followed the little girl's footsteps back to the city proper. Finding a hole in the wall cafe down the street, the Ranger occupied a table outside and watched as the sky darkened. Soon enough, rain began to fall in a steady downpour, thunder rumbling from the distance and accentuated by flashes of lightning.

Yuuta smiled under the cover of the awning, charcoal eyes not leaving the skies above.

"Seems like everything's gonna work out fine for us today."

Spoiler: Recurring Background Noise

@Nommie

 

[Uul Rha Shan]

Watching his partner he had been paired with for the mission. Shan was glad that Yuuta Graves is the one fetching the Loth Cat out of the tree. If the reptilian was the one to do it. Well it is safe to say that the snack sized morsel wouldn't survive. No he wouldn't have eaten it. Not much meat. But due to his talons he could have accidentally killed the frightened creature.

That and the Tiss doesn't exactly know how to be gentle.

He had been given some information about his partner. Supposedly he is a force sensitive and trained. All of that is interesting. Perhaps the reptile could come to trust his partner. Though for now until he gets to know the human a bit better Shan will remain weary. But he wasn't exactly going to let his partner injure himself if he happened to fall out of the tree as he tried to coax the frightened critter. He moved close enough so that if Yuuta fell he will be able to catch him. Alas it wasn't needed as both his partner and the cat made it safely out of the tree.

The Tiss hissed with amusement as the other Ranger mused himself, "As much as you would like to think of how your sweet heart would react to what you did for that little girl. I suggest you focus on our job at hand. When we are done here you can tell her all about it." He suggested trying to keep him focused on the mission. With it being their first for the ISC they can't afford their first mission ending in failure. Following his partner in the direction the little girl went he was curious as to why the force sensitive decided to stop at a Cafe.

Hissing as he observed the darkening sky he caught the faint scent of rain, " Do you think we will get any leads here or are we here to observe the weather?" He asked as he watched people move off the street. Then he noticed why his partner chose this spot, "On second thought. I may see why you stopped here." He told his partner. The reptile will not take a seat though. He will remain standing and trying to appear friendly. Something that is hard to do when one appears as something out of a child's nightmare.

@Forsythe Crowholde

 

[Yuuta Graves]

Face exploding in a brilliant shade of red – both from being reminded yet again of his wife and embarrassment – Yuuta shot Shan a sheepishly grin, one hand rubbing the back of his neck. The hiss the Tiss'Shar Ranger let out would have spooked and intimidated the human had it not for the Force helping him feel that his colleague was amused by Yuuta's musings more than anything. Ranger Shan cut an intimidating figure, and Yuuta was doubly grateful that the former was trying to appear friendly.

He could see and feel the attempt working on the Dresselian girl before she left, and while he could say the same for the other Dressel natives there remained some who chose to give the Tiss Ranger a wide berth before the two of them could duck under the cover of the cafe's awning just as the rain fell.

Yuuta would not hesitate to throw hands if someone commented rudely about Shan, or even try to be aggressive towards the reptilian Ranger.

"Both, actually," he replied brightly to his colleague's question. Perhaps others might call it cheating or making life easier for himself, but Yuuta had learned to utilize the Force the moment it gave him a nudge towards the right path. Initially, he'd chosen to stop by the cafe to wait for the rain to pass (which didn't seem to be happening soon) but the moment he and Shan stepped in something changed. The Force tugged and pulled at Yuuta, humming with disquiet around the human woman behind the cash register.

Gesturing for Shan to follow, Yuuta entered the cafe and approached the cashier with a friendly smile on his face. The woman schooled and matched his expression, gaze flickering over to the Tiss Ranger before settling back again at Yuuta. She was smiling outwardly, but he could feel through the Force her apprehension. Towards Shan, perhaps? Or the badge displayed on the top of Yuuta's sword bag, identifying him and his colleague as ISC Rangers?

"You like caf, Ranger Shan?" Yuuta asked his fellow Ranger, his gaze still locked on the woman. "My treat."

The cashier, for her part, tried to make conversation. "What's Rangers like you doing here on Dressel?" she asked in a hopefully even tone. "Got a bad guy to arrest or something?"

Yuuta chuckled, one hand gesturing at the badge on his sword bag. "I'm obviously not being discreet, aren't I?" Looking over his shoulder at the few patrons inside the establishment, he gazed back at the cashier before asking, "Have you heard about the news of an ISC ambassador getting killed here on Dressel? Made quite a ruckus, right?"

Her smile faltered, eyes flickering between Yuuta and Shan as she leaned forward a little. Voice low, she let out what seemed to be a warning.

"Please, don't speak out loud about that here," she said, voice shaking slightly as she discreetly looked at the patrons over Yuuta's shoulder. "People– They might think I-I'm helping you or something..."

They? Was she talking about the dissenters? The smile on Yuuta's face turned sharp as he whispered back, "But you will, right?"

Sighing, both resigned and confused, the woman straightened and pointed at a booth away from the door and beside the entrance to the cafe's backroom. The cashier then composed herself before telling the two Rangers, "We'll get your order prepared. Please wait in the booth over there. Thank you for your patience!"

That was... something. He didn't even need to use the Jedi mind trick he learned from the Knight who taught him about the Force. But something – maybe the Force itself or his instinct – told him to be more cautious from now on. He and Shan would find out, sooner or later, if this woman was really willing to help them and was on their side, or one of the dissenters responsible for the ambassador's death.

Spoiler: Recurring Background Noise

@Nommie​

 

[Uul Rha Shan]

Shan hummed when his partner told him they had stopped at the Cafe to both observe the weather and to get a lead. Shan had never in his life stopped to have a quiet moment. He figured that it is something that humans do to relax. Or something. The Tiss observed how people rushed past the two as they tried to seek shelter from the rain. From the looks of how heavily the rain is coming down it will not be letting up any time soon. Looking to his partner he observed how Yuuta's expression changed from bright to troubled. Since his partner is a force sensitive the reptilian figured he had picked up something through the force.

The Tiss made sure to keep his claws tucked away and out of sight as best as he can. Same with making sure the claws on his feet didn't make too much noise as he followed his partner into the Cafe, "Yes I would like some caf. Thank you Ranger Graves." He replied to his partners offer of some caf. Glancing around the reptile could see that the citizens in the Cafe weren't looking friendly. It was hard to say if it is directed at both of the rangers or particularly at the Tiss. Humming in thought he looked at the cashier. Who appeared uneasy.

As his partner questioned the woman behind the counter, Shan took the time to look at the patrons to see if anyone of interest will make themselves known. He watched for the subtle movement of uneasiness.

When the woman left to get their order in place the Tiss leaned towards his partner, "I think she knows more about the murder than she is letting on. I suggest we tread carefully.. we don't want to draw too much attention and alert whoever was involved that we are here looking for them." He told Yuuta quietly so no one will hear him, "We may need to be careful with her as well incase she is an informer for who is involved." He added. Moving over to the booth the woman told them to take a seat at Shan sat down.

@Forsythe Crowholde

 

[Yuuta Graves]

Yuuta was chuffed to have been partnered with a Ranger who didn't seem to care nor had any adverse emotions with regards to working with a Force-sensitive. President Thorne had been open about his stand with regards to people like Yuuta – and while Yuuta believed in what the leader of the ISC fought for the Ranger really couldn't be complacent about his status as a Force-sensitive himself operating under Thorne's leadership. He admired what the man fought for, really, but he couldn't agree with the President labelling all Force-users to be the bane of the galaxy or something. The Sith – yeah, sure. But having been taught by a Jedi on how to use the Force, well...

Safe to say that Yuuta might be a little biased towards them.

He gave the Tiss Ranger an appreciative smile for accepting his offer of caf. Yuuta might have been focused in talking with the cashier but he was still largely aware of Shan's presence beside him and the way his reptilian colleague assessed the other people inside the cafe. The human Ranger himself had opened up his senses through the Force, picking up every rise and fall of the emotions around them. So far there have been a few stray spikes of emotions – apprehension – behind them, coming from a few patrons who were understandably intimidated by Shan's appearance. Barely suppressed fear swirled more evidently around the female cashier, however, and Yuuta refrained from getting a read on her surface thoughts. It would have been easy given her panicked state, but he just couldn't take advantage of her like that. It felt wrong, and besides he wasn't desperate yet.

Yuuta inclined his head towards Shan to let the Tiss know that he was listening. He hummed lightly, nodding his head in agreement to Shan's precaution. While their identity as ISC Rangers have been made obvious by the badge in Yuuta's person, he wholeheartedly agreed with Shan about being cautious and discreet with their investigation. Despite being given full authority and free reign both by the ISC and the Dresselian Council on how they should apprehend the ambassador's killer (or killers), it wouldn't hurt to proceed carefully with the investigation. And should the woman turn out to be an informant for those who were involved as Shan pointed out, Yuuta guessed that he would be forced (Maker forgive him for the horrible pun) to make drastic measures and employing what he'd learned from Poet's Jedi dad.

Here's hoping it doesn't have to come to that.

A different server came to the Rangers' booth a few minutes later, prompting Yuuta to discreetly shoot the cashier a curious frown. The male Dresselian set down the cups on the table, smiling eagerly at Shan then to Yuuta. “Your order, gentlemen,“ the server told them. “If you need anything, don't hesitate to call us. Thank you!“

Yuuta returned the server's smile before glancing back at the woman from earlier. He lifted the cup to his lips, but a faint warning echoed in the back of his mind. The Ranger placed the cup back down before whispering a warning to Shan.

“Don't drink it.“

He had no way of knowing if the drinks were spiked, but Yuuta won't ignore the warning from the Force – no matter how fleeting nor minutr. From their place inside the cafe, the two Rangers were free to study the human woman from afar and see that she was discreetly throwing glances their way. Reaching out through the Force, Yuuta could feel her fear growing. Something wasn't right...

“She tells us to wait but she's not coming here, and sent someone else instead“ Yuuta commented quietly to Shan, once again lifting the cup to his lips and feigning a sip and swallowing. He wiped his top lip with a napkin, careful not to leave any trace of the beverage behind. “And we can't exactly wait for her shift or work to end today without rousing suspicion. You see how anxious she seemed when we're talking earlier? I have a feeling she knows something, but is too afraid to speak. Or you may be right about her being an informant for those involved with the ambassador's death...“

Yuuta pointedly glanced at the cup pf caf in front of Shan then to the Tiss Ranger himself. “Otherwise I wouldn't get bad vibes from something as harmless as a cup of hot caf,“ he joked wryly. Then, unable to really help himself, Yuuta repeated in a whisper, leaning forward worriedly towards Shan, “Don't drink it. Pretend you do, but be careful.“

Spoiler: Recurring Background Noise

@Nommie​

 

[Uul Rha Shan]

Shan tilted his head curiously as a different Cafe employee brought the two Rangers their drinks. Carefully wrapping his reptilian fingers around the cup so his claws didn't accidentally puncture or tear the cup he lifted his beverage up. But something didn't sit right. While the drink had that usual coffee aroma there was another scent that raised some red flags in Shan's mind.

His sense of smell is more superior compared to a human. Maybe his partner is able to pick up on the scent accompanying the coffee scent. Maybe not. But it filled the reptile's nerves with a sickening feeling as he placed the cup down without taking a sip, "You don't need to tell me that twice." He said quietly, "There is an odd smell along with the coffee scent.. It's not normal. I don't know if you can smell it but.. don't try. It gave me a nauseous feeling." He pointed out. The nauseous feeling could be a hint to whatever was slipped into their drinks. Narrowing his reptilian eyes as he looked down at his drink then over to the cashier he naturally started to feel some distrust towards her. Are they being targeted because they are Rangers? Or due to them investigating the murder? Or both reasons.

He gently tapped his claws on the table as he thought, making sure to look at the force sensitive here and there to show that he is listening. Shan hummed a little bit, "Either it is she or someone in the back who slipped something into our drinksm with how she is watching us.. she is expecting something to happen." He paused, "We can't trust her or whoever is in the back.. as much as we want to trust her. If she was someone with a threat lingering over her head she would be trying to give us information. Not slipping something in our drinks." The Tiss eyed the plant next to them that is between them and the wall but out of view of the cashier and the other employees. Gesturing to the plant as he used one of his claws to poke a small hole into the underside of his cup and placed it momentarily over the plant. Gesturing to his comrade to let him do the same to his cup, "I say when our cups are empty we walk out separately. Try to draw out who tampered with our drinks.. surely they will follow to make sure whatever they slipped in worked." Shan suggested. Then gestured for Yuuta to take a look at the counter after spotting two more employees standing next to the cashier, all three quietly talking.

It doesn't look good to the Tiss.

@Forsythe Crowholde

 

[Yuuta Graves]

It didn't surprise Yuuta that Shan had managed to catch a whiff of something that shouldn't belong in a harmless cup of caf. Whatever was put in their drink really scratched out that bit about their orders being relatively harmless, and the Ranger was beginning to realize and accept the fact that the cashier from earlier wasn't really intent on helping him and his colleague.

Maybe she really was an informant for the dissenters and tipped whoever she was working with to tamper with the two Rangers' drinks. Yuuta was utterly grateful for the warning through the Force and Shan's superior sense of smell.

His immediate attention was focused on the Tiss'Shar while he spoke, but Yuuta discreetly kept an eye on the woman nonetheless. Shan's theory about her being threatened was plausible as well, so Yuuta ruled her out as an accomplice as he initially thought for now. He knew how fear could drive people into doing things they didn't want to actually do – and maybe she was one of those people. Maybe she wasn't, though.

They would find out one way or another.

Shan's suggestion was a sound one, and Yuuta nodded in agreement. "Given the differences between our physical constitutions, I'll go and pretend to be affected by whatever they put in our drinks. Our safe bet is that they put some sleep-inducing drug in our caf. This cup is small for you," he added, gesturing between himself and the Tiss with a wide smile to fool whoever was watching into thinking that the two Rangers were discussing a funny anecdote, "so they'll be assuming that I'll be the one who will be affected first, and fast."

Gaze flicking discreetly over the counter, Yuuta quickly but carefully dumped the contents of his cup onto the plant. One of the employees turned to look at the two Rangers and could see Yuuta now drinking from his cup, not knowing that it was nearly empty. The employee then nudged their colleague and the two of them disappeared into the kitchen. Left behind in her post, the cashier juggled between ringing up another customer's payment and keeping an eye on the two Rangers, probably to report to her co-conspirators if the Rangers would start to leave.

Opening himself out fully into the Force, the fear the cashier felt was made even more visceral in Yuuta's senses. Shan's apprehension came even sharper to the younger Ranger. And whatever was put in their drink was starting to take effect but he actively worked against it, trying to heal himself from whatever that was starting to ail him. Healing had never been easy for Yuuta but it was doable as long as his concentration would not be broken. He had to work doubly hard with it now as he moved to stand up.

"Time to see who's going to tail us," he told Shan, then realizing the pun he inadvertently made. Yuuta chuckled sheepishly, one hand lifting to rub the back of his neck gingerly. "Let's go, Ranger Shan."

As they made their way out of the café (the rain finally stopped, thank the Maker), Yuuta gave the cashier a friendly smile and acted as if he had no idea she and her colleagues were plotting something. Once the two Rangers were outside, Yuuta said in a pretense of going back go their work (although they really were),

"Maybe we should split up, Ranger Shan. We can cover more ground that way. Let's compare notes later!"

He spoke loud and clear enough for the woman to hear, Yuuta made sure of that. The Ranger then nodded knowingly at Shan before turning around, coming back where they came from earlier. Yuuta then turned left, walking across the street and seemingly further away from his colleague. Entering an alleyway, he slowed down on his tracks, pretending to feel lightheaded the moment he caught wind of a presence tailing him. Knowing and trusting that Shan had his back, Yuuta allowed his body to fall on the wet pavement, eyes closed and a pained expression on his face. He made a show of struggling to get back up, and from the corner of his vision he noticed three individuals trying to stealthily made their way towards him.

Pretending to finally lose consciousness, Yuuta now waited for Shan's turn to shine. Good luck to whoever these three goons were – even Yuuta himself wouldn't want to go toe to toe with a Tiss, much less an angry one. Feeling hands on his arms, the Ranger kept his eyes closed and his body lax, not budging in the slightest when one took the sword slung over his shoulder none too gently.

"Haul 'im up, lads," spoke a voice quietly and Yuuta could feel himself now slowly being dragged. Another pair of hands found his ankles and a sudden feeling of weightlessness surrounded the Ranger.

Okay, being carried was a step up from being dragged away like a carcass. Ooh, Marizo wasn't going to like this, and as much as Yuuta didn't want to recount this particular moment he knew he really could never stop himself from being honest with his lady love.

"What are we gonna do with him?" asked another voice overhead. "Take him to the boss? And what about the Tiss?"

"We'll come to that," answered the one from earlier. "Gona hafta start with pretty boy 'ere. See how he's knocked out already?" There was a pause as a rough hand patted Yuuta's cheek. "Now, da Tiss... he ain't gonna go down as easy as this one. Y'all gonna hafta wait 'til that lizard's down an' out."

Alright, Shan, thought Yuuta. Time to show these guys who's the real deal.

Spoiler: Dice

How many danger dudes are tailing Yuuta?
RIP, baddies – you're up against Badass Dino. Yuuta will help Shan, of course. That is, if Shan doesn't decimate all three first.

@Nommie​

 

[Uul Rha Shan]

Shan listened to the other Ranger. Nodding as he listened. While he was going to offer himself up as the target for them to follow. His team mate does have a point. Whi knows how long it would take for whatever was put in their drinks to start affecting him. That and he would most likely to be able to take out who follows. Shan nodded, lifting his cup as Yuuka made the comment about his cup being small for him, adding to the trick that thry are talking about something the other patrons would think of as them talking about something that occured during a past mission, "You're right. This is small for me Ranger Graves." He mentioned while shaking his cup to hint to that he had already drank the xontents. Though the two of them know he hasn't.

He couldn't help but become apprehensive as he watched Yuuta drink whatever was left in his cup. Yes his partner agreed to the plan. But what if it all goes south and Yuuta succumbs to what was slipped into the drink? Shan wasn't too keen on losing his partner. Glancing over to the cashier he noted the other two with the woman had left. His reptilian eyes focused back onto his partner. He couldn't help the hiss of amusement at Yuuta's pun as he followed his fellow Ranger out of the Cafe.

"I agree. I'll catch up with you later to compare notes Ranger Graves." He replied then broke off from his partner. Though his route the raptor had picked carefully after glancing back at Yuuta to see which direction he will head off in. His path will put him right behind whoever follows Yuuta as the force sensitive. It is safe to say that the raptor fekt a little sadistic. Wanting to have fun with who follows his partner. And it is safe to say that it us strategic since people tend to forget to look up. So the raptor climbed up to the lowest roof possible as he circled round to get behind the three men.

Watching two lift his partner up Shan hissed dangerously then jumped down. Making sure to knock out the one holding Yuuta's feet with a head butt. Then stunning the bloke holding up his upper body with his stun baton. When he was sure Yuuta didn't fall back onto his head, the Tiss chased down and pinned the third down onto the pavement, inadvertently causing his three claws to become buried in the man's shoulder blade,"You know. Men like you sure do know how to talk big. But you are easy to make run like the cowards you are. What's the problem? Not enough spine to put up a fight?" He hissed into the pinned man's ear dangerously.

Looking over to Yuuta, concern flashed into his reptilian eyes, "Are you alright Ranger Graves?" He asked. He knows that his partner is a trained force sensitive but has no idea that Graves is able to heal himself. So naturally Shan in worried that his partner really will succumb to what was in the drink.

Dice Roll: Success!

@Forsythe Crowholde

 

[Yuuta Graves]

The problem with drinking even a small amount of the spiked caf was that Yuuta had no idea if what was put in the cup was poison or a simple sleep-inducing drug. Another problem was that the Force really didn't give him something of a "god mode" to automatically ascertain what was put in his and Shan's drink – the Force didn't work that way, after all, and despite being able to harness powers no normal being could use it did not make one omnipotent, let alone omniscient.

Fortune seemed to smile upon him, however. For while whatever was put in his drink was starting to make him feel a little dizzy and drowsy, the Force wasn't sending any further red flags that the Ranger could pinpoint about the caf being poisoned. Something to make him sleep, then. Perhaps whoever was behind this wanted information as much as Shan and Yuuta did, only with regards to the ongoing investigation about the ISC ambassador's death. Or so Yuuta assumed, because really, what was the most probable reason for two ISC Rangers to pop up in the area mere days after the killing?

Yuuta was glad that he only drank a little amount of caf or else he knew he would have already been knocked out. That could potentially put Shan in a tight spot, and the human Ranger wanted to avoid that scenario as much as possible. So while he was trying to purge the effects of the drug from his system he was also alert for any signs of his fellow Ranger. A tug from the Force alerted Yuuta of Shan's arrival, and he quickly covered the back of his head with his hands when the Tiss Ranger's ambush caused the two thugs who were lifting Yuuta to drop him.

Landing flat on his back Yuta quickly rolled out of the way and rose to his feet, staggering a little as he lost focus on healing himself using the Force. His vision turned black for the briefest of moments but he shook it off by closing his eyes and taking several deep breaths to steady his concentration. As the healing energies of the Force aligned once more the dark-haired male reopened his eyes just in time to see Shan impaling one of the goons on the shoulder with his dangerously sharp claws.

Note to self: Don't get Shan angry, thought Yuuta, half-sheepish and in silent awe while he gazed from the pinned goon to the rest of his cronies. The Tiss'Shar made quick work of Yuuta's would-be kidnappers, making the human Ranger all the more impressed with his colleague.

Yuuta retrieved his sword, slinging it over his shoulder before approaching Shan and the man he had pinned. He looked up at the Tiss, eyes wide and gleaming with awr. He almost missed Shan's question, the goon's own grunt of pain bringing Yuuta back to the present.

"I'm alright, Ranger Shan," he assured the Tiss with a grateful smile. "Whatever they put in our drinks aren't poisonous. I think whoever's behind this wants to question us as much as we want to question them."

The man pinned by Shan tried to struggle but stopped as soon as Yuuta's gaze landed on him. The goon shot the Tiss a withering glare.

"You're one ta talk, ya oversized lizard," spat the man angrily, grimacing in pain. "Feel good ambushin' us, huh? Bastard!"

Frowning lightly, Yuuta narrowed his eyes at the man. "Don't talk to him like that! It's rude and impolite!"

Gazing at the human Ranger in disbelief, the man had the audacity to crack an insulting grin. "Will ya look at dat? Yer momma taught ya manners or somethin'?"

Ignoring the quip, Yuuta simply rolled his eyes in response before speaking. "Alright," he began. "Let's cut this short, shall we? What do you know of the group of dissenters responsible for the ISC ambassador's death?"

"What? You expect for me ta flop belly up an' tell ya ev'rythin'?" The man laughed despite the pain of his injuries. "I ain't gonna talk, Ranger dogs. Even if ya torture me!"

"It didn't have to come to that," Yuuta told the man, trying diplomacy first. Perhaps they could come to an agreement in order to get the information they needed. "If you're afraid that your life might be put in danger for giving us the information we need, we assure you that you'll be put under witness protection so–"

"I ain't afraid of no one," the man cut the Ranger off with a huff. "That's the problem with ya ISC lot. Ya think ye have free reign over us independent planets, wit' yer leader spoutin' off nonsense about leavin' nobody behind. We don't need ya here in Dressel! Ya leave us alone, ye hear? Leave us!"

Ah, so the man clearly was a part of the dissenting group against the presence and proposal of the ISC on the planet. His words alone were enough proof that he was a part of the isolationist group that wanted no part in the ISC nor any outsider help. But couldn't this man and his comrades see that President Thorne only wanted to help Dressel, give aid and support against the ever growing threat of the AMS on the planet? Would they rather shun away progress and deal with their own growing problems than accept the offer of a kind, helping hand?

And they even resorted to killing an innocent man who was just trying to reach out in behalf of the ISC.

Yuuta gritted his teeth. He and Shan needed to get to the bottom of this problem, needed to find and arrest whoever was behind the death of the ambassador. They needed to show the Dresselian council that the ISC would keep their word about bringing justice to that death, and it would begin by making the arrest of the dissenters – more so those who killed the ambassador.

Gaze turning hard Yuuta waved a hand over the man's face, planting a suggestion in the latter's mind as the Ranger said, "You will come with us quietly and without complaint."

There was a resistance through the Force but it was faint, weak. Yuuta imposed his will on the man, their gazes locked until the latter's expression turned lax.

"I will come with you quietly... and... without complaint."

"If anyone sees us and asks, you will tell them that me and my colleague rescued you from those two muggers behind us."

"I will... tell them that you and your colleague rescued me from muggers."

Mind tricked, Yuuta moved beside the man, took stock if he was carrying weapons before retrieving a vibroknife concealed in his jacket, then slung one of his arms around the Ranger's shoulders. He gestured for Shan to remove his claws from the man's shoulder.

"Let's interrogate him somewhere else, Ranger Shan," he told the Tiss, adjusting his hold on the goon. "And keep him with us. We can use him to get every bit of info we'll need and to track the rest of his group."

@Nommie

 

[Uul Rha Shan]

Shan didn't plan on impaling the bloke with his claws, but due to the man taking off and the Tiss wanting to prevent the goon from escaping it was perhaps an inevitable outcome of catching the man. It served in their favor anyways since someone who was perhaps directly involved in the murder won't be escaping so easily. Not without causing more, and possibly fatal, damage to himself. Shan doubted the man will be trying anything.

Of course the reptile made sure not to dig his claws in any deeper than they already are. Hopefully this won't put a bad mark on their mission.

He nodded, snorting what could be interpreted as a sigh of relief when Yuuta told the Tiss he will be alright. Though Shan wouldn't blame his partner for passing out if the need to sleep still manages to linger when their job is finished. He glanced to his partner, "Good. I may have ended this man's life if yours was ended." He hissed dangerously, "I see.. so they have others somewhere near here. They wouldn't have dragged us very far I think." He narrowed his eyes as the captive spoke up, openly disrespecting him and his partner. But as much as Shan wanted to say something he chose not to do do since that would put him at the same level as the goon.

With how the man is possibly the one who slipped the sleeping agent into their drinks, as well as how he is talking. It was easy to compare the man to his own captors years ago. He showed great restraint by not making a move to end the man's life nor to cause more damage to him.

The man is refusing to talk, for now, as he snapped back at his partner, "Torture is an option. But we won't stoop that low. We are nothing like you and your conspirators.. you filth." He replied to the pinned man. He hissed a little as Yuuta's diplomatic approach also failed to get the man to talk. It seems that not only is he in line with the other conspirators, he is among their ranks. Probably deep in with the ringleaders of the isolationist group. Either the man and others in the group are blind to the fact that the ISC can provide them with much needed help, including in areas outside of the AMS issue. Or they are in outright denial of it. Whatever the reason. It didn't warrent murdering an innocent person who was only at Dressel for diplomatic reasons. Who knew that someone coming to talk would be enough to put a death warrent by, possibly, an extremist group on a person.

It was here that Shan, and most likely his partner as well, learned just how important it is that they track down and arrest as many involved with the murder as possible. It may be quite the extensive list. But with how well the two have shown they can work together they can possibly get the majority or all of them. Hopefully they can.

So far Shan has had the treat of witnessing two force abilities. One that, so far or has completely, negated the affects of the sleeping agent. And now seeing the 'Mind Trick' at work as Yuuta put not one but two thoughts in the man's mind. Which naturally is impressive to the Tiss. More so since he is sure that Yuuta is probably still using the other to combat the sleep agent. He held the captive still as his partner searched for any weapons, which only produced a single vibroknife. Nodding he removed his claws, "We could take him to the ship. With the ramp sealed no one will be able to hear anything. And with the ship being in the middle of a landing field I doubt anyone will suspect much." He suggested, "I'll get the other two." He added. Walking over to the otger two suspects he carefully wiped the blood on his claws on one of the two men's hand to make it look like they tried to mug their ringleader. He then cuffed both of the men. Holding one in each arm he nodded to his partner to say he is ready to get moving. The Raptor walked over to his partner so the two aren't cut off from each other if there are more waiting to ambush the two of them, "With our haul. Perhaps we should stick to back streets to gdt back to the landing field. We don't want others of their group to see we have these three captured.".

So far they have a pretty could arrest list. If they can arrest a few more or the rest the two will not only look good themselves but give the ISC a more positive look to dressilians as well. Right now it was getting these three either back to the ship or somewhere that they can interrogate at without too many people seeing them. So far they have gotten lucky since no one has waljed past or into the alleyway they are currently standing.

@Forsythe Crowholde

 

[Yuuta Graves]

"I'm cool with all of those," Yuuta said in agreement to Shan's suggestion. He couldn't suppress the boyish grin on his face as he reflected on the exchange between the two Rangers and the goon earlier. As much as he wanted to gain the needed information on his would-be kidnappers the dark-haired Ranger hoped that he and his colleague didn't need to resort to torturing the three dissenters. Hearing the Tiss rebut the man's claim of torture brought a sense of relief to Yuuta, if he was being honest with himself.

Just because they were given free reign on how this investigation would go did not mean that he and Shan had to subject the suspects to cruelty. It would bring up a bad image not only to the ISC Rangers but to the entirety of the Consortium as well. And public images aside, his thoughts would always drift to the wife who waited faithfully for him back in Lianna. What would Marizo think of him if she found out that Yuuta had been torturing criminals?

Adjusting his hold on the suspect he was supporting, Yuuta stepped close to Shan and nodded, turning away from the street and heading further into the alley. "Yes, we should. We still don't have a picture to go along with whoever might be looking at and for us. You're right, Ranger Shan." Yuuta glanced at his colleague while they took a turn to a back street. Judging from the path's direction it offered the two Rangers not just a shortcut but a cover as they made their way back to the landing field. "And if anyone on the landing zone becomes curious, they'll leave us alone if they find out we're here on Ranger business. At least civilians would do that. So, if someone's suspiciously curious, it could only mean two things: an overly nosy civvy or a possible member of the dissenters we're looking for."

Gaze shifting back on the path before them, Yuuta maintained multi-tasking with the Force, continuing to fight against the effects of the sleeping drug in his system and stretching out his senses in search for any hostiles in the area. Fortune smiled on the pair of Rangers – while the continued concentration on healing himself was slowly starting to prove taxing, there were still no signs of danger around Yuuta and Shan. But the human Ranger would not lower his defenses just yet. He would do that once they're in the safety of Shan's ship.

It was larger and more spacious than the Death Painting, too.

Their passage through the back streets went without a hitch. Yuuta caught sight of Shan's Starrunner-class Transport nestled between the dark-haired Ranger's KS-9910 Kathol-class Light Courier and a CCM-220 Light Freighter. He turned to the Tiss Ranger, as if asking for permission.

Yuuta was about to open his mouth when the hairs on the back of his neck stood up and a chill ran down his spine as if in a warning. Gesturing for Shan to step back in the shadows, charcoal eyes scanned the passersby, pilots, and workers that littered the landing field. He couldn't see anyone suspicious but he didn't shake off the bad feeling he just felt.

"We need to move, and fast," he whispered to Shan while he continued to scan the small crowd in the landing field. "Get your ship's ramp lowered as quick as you can. I'll get this–" he gestured at the suspect he was still supporting "–guy up and go back down to scout the perimeter. Maybe I'm just feeling paranoid or something but I can't just shake this bad vibe off..."

Hells, he hoped he was really jusy feeling paranoid. But between his and Shan's drink getting spiked and an attempted kidnapping back in the alley warranted a reason to feel a little anxious.

"Let's go."

Stepping out of the alley, Yuuta made sure to walk closely beside Shan as they made their way to the Tiss Ranger's ship. A few heads titled the pair's way, more so the unconscious goons carried by Shan and the one Yuuta was supporting. He made sure to have his badge out where anyone can see, and much to his earlier hypothesis the civilians didn't pry. Yuuta could feel some eyes lingering on him and his partner, however.

@Nommie

 

[Uul Rha Shan]

Shan followed his partner closely through the back streets towards the landing field. Somehow no one had taken notice of the two Rangers or lady luck kept the back streets empty for them. Whatever the reason the two made it to the landing fiekd without any issues.

"Yes. I'll get the landing ramp lowered. It is right there." He told Yuuta. Glancing around he noted that no one so far has taken note of the two. It is hard to tell if anyone is actively looking for them so it is hard to say entirely that the Tiss and the force sensitive are in the clear. The reptilian hissed a luttle bit. Taking a moment to carefully look over uis partner wondering if his sudden paranoia is due to the events that have taken place so far coupled with the case they are working on or if it is some affect of the drug, "Peace, Yuuta. No need to get worked up. If you walk out there like this you will possibly attract unwanted attention." He told his partner then calmly walked away from his partner. Walking up to his ship he placed one of the two captives down then lowered the ramp.

Signalling to his partner Shan walked up the ramp. Placing the two men he's carrying in a makeshift prison cell he closely watched his partner board when he noted two Twi'leks standing at the end of the ramp.

Hissing with curiosity he walked to the two beings, "If you are looking for a ride I am afraid we aren't leaving just yet. Unless there is another reason?" He asked the two. Either he is being incredibly stupid for approaching the two Twi'leks or incredibly brave. Possibly both stupid and brave. However it may be too soon to judge his decision to approach the pair just yet.

The male Twi'lek was the one to speak up, "Yes, sir. Mr.. Ranger?" He said before he was jabbed by his sister's elbow to get him to the point. He took im a deep breath, "C-can we speak to you on the ship? It feels far too oprn." He said nervously, "We have information you may want to hear." nodding Shan led the two up the ramp.

Standing next to his partner, "Supposedly. They have information they want to share with us." He told Yuuta then nodded for the male Twi'lek to continue.

"We know why you are here. About the murder, yes? Well.. if the force is with you. Our information could help you to capture the ringleaders.." The ale Twi'lek paused but his sister quickly butted her way in after feeling her brother is taking dar too long, "You'll find the ringleaders in the pub at the center of the red light district.. it isn't difficult to find." She told the two, "I don't know if all of tgem will be there or if you will even find them but there is a good chance you might."

Shan tilted his head, "This sounds almost too good to be true. How do we know you aren't leading us into a trap?" He asked. Surely his partner will pick up if the two Twi'lek are being deceitful. Since Shan naturally doesn't want to be dragged back into slavery he will be wary for that reason. Dying he isn't afraid of since that will be the more desirable outcome of an ambush.

"We're not trying to lead you into a trap. Those bastards have done terrible things here. Isn't that reason enough to believe us?" She asked.

The reptile looked to the other Ranger, "What do you think?" He asked. Behind the two Twi'leks Shsn saw three more beings, one a human and the other two Dresselian. Thinking that they too are here to give them information the raptor waved for them to board.

So that all five that are coming forward felt safe, along with his partner if Yuuta felt any uneasiness, the Raptor moved to stand guard at the ramp. Putting him directly behind the five civilians. Hissing in thought he partially raised the ramp to make sure no one else boarded the ship.

@Forsythe Crowholde

 

[Yuuta Graves]

Healing wasn't really Yuuta's forte when it came to the powers offered to him by thr Force that he currently possessed. Well, at least not yet. He had plans to improve on this aspect, knowing that the abiliyy was something he could use to help those who were in need. Regardless of President Thorne's stand about Force-users, Yuuta saw no reason to stop relying on his gift – if it helped people, then his use of the Force was a good thing, right?

While there wasn't really any imminent threat, the remnants of the drug in his system fed his paranoia. It momentarily skewed his senses through the Force, until Shan spoke in assurance. Yuuta shook his head, taking a deep breath once, then twice, to clear his mind. He closed his eyes for a few seconds, grounding himself on the reassuring presence of his fellow Ranger, before reopening them and sent a smile the Tiss'Shar's way.

"Yeah, I will. Thanks," he told Shan as he followed the other Ranger while adjusting his hold on the dissenter beside him. Yuuta's face turned a little plae, however, the proof of how taxing healing himself was becoming while at the same time keeping an "eye" on the people around them and their intent through the Force. He gratefully smiled up at the Tiss before boarding the latter's ship, carefully helping the dissenter to sit down on the floor beside his fellow goons.

"Please don't cause us any more trouble," he told the suspects before locking them up. Yuuta could only incline his head politely and awkwardly at his would-be kidnappers before heading off to look for Shan.

"Perhaps we should start interrogating them now–" Yuuta was saying but stopped midway at the sight of two Twi'leks – one male and the other female – standing just shy of the end of the boarding ramp. Tilting his head to the side curiosuly, the human Ranger sensed a mixture of apprehension, a bit of fear, and mounting hope from the pair. There was also an air of familial protectiveness between the two Twi'leks. Siblings, perhaps?

Stepping down to stand beside Shan, Yuuta regarded the pair before them with an open and kind expression. He listened to the three's exchange, eyes growing wide with interest at the information the Twi'leks held.

At Shan's question, Yuuta reached out through the Force to sense any deceit from the Twi'leks and their other three companions. A genuine smile crossed the human Ranger's face at the absence of a lie – there was nothing but the determination to help the two Rangers and the need to end the troubles and antagonism the dissenters held over them.

Yuuta glanced at Shan and gave the latter a meaningful nod. "They're telling the truth about wanting to help us. Let's hear them out."

At the Tiss'Shar's behest, Yuuta boarded the ship once more with the five civilians now in tow. With Shan raising the ramp, the group were now in the privacy of the Tiss Ranger's ship, and through the Force Yuuta could feel that they were beginning to feel safe and more readily forthcoming with any other information about the dissenters that they knew.

"We should all make for the galley if that's okay, Shan. It'd be best to listen to them once they're comfortable."

Should the Tiss agree, Yuuta would begin to lead the five civilians towards the ship's galley, offering for them to sit and making an offer for food or drinks. Granted it wasn't even his ship, but Yuuta felt that Shan wouldn't mind given their current situation.

"We're grateful for your presence here, um..." started one of the Dresselians, gazing at the two Rangers curiously.

"This is Ranger Uul Rha Shan," he introduced themselves for the civilian convenience. "I'm Yuuta Graves, but please just call me by my name."

The five nodded gratefully, before the Dresselian continued. "Like my companions said, we're not attempting to do you both any harm. We really wanted to give you information about the ambassador's killers." He frowned, his grip on the glass of water tightening a little. "Those dissenters... they have done nothing but antagonize us and everyone who supported the ISC in this district. They want us to stand with them in kicking the Consortium out of the planet."

"They're threatening anyone who shows open support for Dressel's induction to the ISC," the human added. "They– They tried to silence my father when he tried to tell on them to the authorities!"

Yuuta's expression fell, clearly worried for the civilians' well-being. "How is your father? Did they...?"

The human shook her head, tears welling up her blue eyes. "He's recovering, thank the Maker. But if the dissenters won't be stopped, who knows what other despicable things they might do?"

Gazing over at Shan, Yuuta approached his partner then glanced back at the five. The woman was now crying quietly and her companions were muttering reassuring words to her to comfort her. Maybe the two Rangers could show them their prisoners for identification...?

An idea suddenly popped in Yuuta's mind, making him smile at the Tiss Ranger. They couldn't head over to that pub without knowing what the dissenters looked like, nor could they bring the civilians with them in fear of getting them caught in the ensuing fight because he was sure that the dissenters would not surrender for an arrest. But since the civilians themselves mentioned that they knew where the ringleaders of the dissenterd were holed up...

"Shan, wait here. I've got something in mind!"

Without waiting for his partner's response, Yuuta headed back out of Shan's ship, jumping down the ramp and cushioning his landing with the Force. Jogging towards his own ship and boarding the Death Painting, the Ranger made a beeline for his quarters and went straight for his desk. Retreiving his sketchpad and a charcoal pen, Yuuta grinned before making his way out, securing his ship first before heading back to Shan's. He didn't wait for the Tiss to lower the ramp, instead letting the Force wrap around him as he leaped up the ramp to board the Starrunner-class transport, his boots squeaking against the floor as he ran.

Once he made it back to the galley, he showed the sketchpad and pencil to the assembled group and his fellow Ranger. In his haste, however, a few stray pages fluttered to the floor – the most prominent being an old portrait of Yuuta's wife, the drawing dating back to their childhood years.

"Ah, kriff–!" he yelped, cheeks turning pink from embarrassment as he picked up the sketches and drawings, taking particular care of the picture of Marizo. Stuffing them carefully and reverently back in the sketchpad, Yuuta gestured at it, still blushing lightly with embarrassment from his tiny blunder.

"Since you all seem to be familiar where the ringleaders of the dissenters are, would you mind describing to me what they look like? That is, if you do knpw what they look like," he requested, smiling at the five civilians. It would be best if Shan and Yuuta already knew the faces of who they're here to arrest, right?

@Nommie

 

[Uul Rha Shan]

At his partner's suggestion to take everyone to the galley where the people who have come to them will be more comfortable. The Tiss was going to say yes but before he could even voice his agreement to the suggestion the force sensitive was already leading the people to the galley. Perhaps he sensed that Shan was going to agree to the suggestion? Who knows. Following close behind the group he watched as everyone took a seat around the table, visibly they looked more relaxed than they were while standing next to the boarding ramp. The reptile moved to stand next to his partner after getting some water boiling for tea or coffee depending on what their guests preferred.

When one of the two Dressilians fell silent and his partner introducing the two of them as well as himself... well kriff! How rude of himself to not introduce himself. Sheesh. He really needs to work on his mannerisms apparently. The reptile hissed sheepishly, "I'm Ranger Uul Rha Shan. You can call me Shan if it's easier for you.." He mentally facepalmed himself. Of course saying Shan will be easier than saying his whole name every time.

Has it been that long since his last cup of coffee?

Well with the pleasantries out of the way the guests got right down to business as the Raptor plsced some finished coffee and tea onto the table. The female Twi'lek was the first to help herself to the tea. Though it appeared the Dressilian currently talking would rather stick to his glass of water. His reptile eyes did widen a bit as the female human told them about her father. Shan hissed, "Scumbags like those who killed the ambassador will most likely do anything to force others into giving into their will.." He trailed off when his partner turned to him then nodded, "Of course. I'll keep these lot company." He watched his partner run off then turned his attention back to the five sitting at the table. The female human still crying was a depressing sight to the reptile. Handing the woman a box of tissues his attention turned to the Twi'lek, "Do you think you can draw us a map of the pub and show us where the scumbags ususlly are in there?" He asked.

The female Twi'lek nodded, "I sure can! I know the whole place like the back of my hand." She told the Tiss.

Shan hissed with amusement. Then looked to Yuuta as the other ranger returned. Showing the group his sketchpad and charcoal pen. Well yes that certainly will come in handy. The reptile but back a chuckle as his partner scrambled to hide away a piece of paper back into his sketch book. He nor the other five got a chance to see what exactky was on the paper to cause Yuuta to hide it away so quickly. Shan wasn't ablut to start guessing though. It's none of his business.

The female Twi'lek was the first one to speak up though when the five were askee to describe the ringleaders, "The main.. boss.. you can say. He is a humsn male. Kind of on the chubby side. He has a scar that goes across his face starting from the right side of his forehead down to the left side of his chin. His lips are kind of crooked where the scar cuts across his lips." The woman human then added her piece, "His eyes always appear cold. They are an icy blue. But cold for a different reason. He's always frowning. He wears a tuxedo. Don't know why. But everytime I see him he is in a tuxedo. Neatly kept. Always flips out when the smallest crumb gets on it." She explained.

The male Twi'lek spoke up next, "His right ear is pierced. Always has a purple gemstone stud in the ear. Nothing else. He does have a Gammorrean Guard with him as well."

Shan lifted a hand, "Let's focus on the main ringleader for now. What else can you describe to us about him?" He asked.

The five appeared to ponser for a minute or two before the female Twi'lek started speaking up again, "The only real distinguishing feature he has is the left side of his neck has a nasty burn scar. Not sure what from but it's hard to miss." She told the two ranfers.

Shan looked to his partner, "Do you think we only need his description? I'm sure whoever we see with him can be assumed to be a part of the circle who plotted and carried out the ambassador's murder." He mentioned.

@Forsythe Crowholde

 

[Yuuta Graves]

The sketchpad Yuuta retrieved would see to its uses, and while he could've just used it for show he still had to give Shan the benefit of knowing what their suspects looked like aside from the description the civilians gave them. The human Ranger had used the excuse to draw a picture of ter suspects purely for the reason that he could glean what they really looked like through the Force as the dissenters' faces floated in the forefront of their civilian helper's minds. But the Tiss Ranger didn't possess the advantage Yuuta had in the Force, and the younger Ranger was motr than glad and eager to provide his partner a visual of what the people they would apprehend looked like.

His hands moved as the civilians began to describe the suspects one by one. Drawing on the lessons he'd learned from the Jedi Knight who taught him, Yuuta made sure to only look at each individual's surface thoughts. Looking past other people's thoughts was safe as long as he was mindful of his own will and presence pushing subtly through whatever mental resistance possessed by the person whose thoughts he was reading. Any added force (forgive his pun) and he would be intruding, causing much discomfort and – Maker forbid – fear and distrust from anyone whose thoughts he was looking at and reading.

The sketch came out exactly as the civilians described and pictured for Yuuta to draw and see. Turning the sketchpad over so the five could give an affirmation that the person Yuuta drew was indeed the ringleader, the human Ranger gave them a thankful nod before Shan's question caught his interest. Charcoal gaze shifting from the civilians to his partner, Yuuta offered Shan a nod as his eyes met the Twi'lek woman's.

A rather interesting thought flashed in her mind when Shan mentioned people who might have taken part in the ambassador's death. While they were familiar with the ringleader's appearance and the guards who watched his back, the civilians were in the dark as to who else were involved with the dissenting group.

"You're right, Shan," replied Yuuta, still locking gazes with the Twi'lek woman who was starting to blush under the weight of his stare. To the human Ranger's defense he didn't seem to notice as he continued to sift through her surface thoughts. People he saw who came and went in the pub shared one thing in common – the same purple gemstone the ringleader was adorned, except they were wearing said gemstone on a ring, a pendant for a necklace, and an earring. The female Twi'lek had no idea that she had just supplied Yuuta Graves another piece of vital information with regards to the dissenters responsible for the ambassador's death.

"Er, Ranger Graves? Mister... Yuuta?" asked the brother, looking between his blushing sister and the Ranger. "Is there something wrong? You're staring at my sister too much..."

His own cheeks turning pink in embarrassment at having been made aware of what he was doing, Yuuta lowered his head in a frantic, apologetic bow.

"I-I'm sorry, I didn't mean to!" he told the siblings, earning a laugh from the other civilians. Turning to Shan, he lowered his voice as he relayed what he had just discovered. "You're right, we have to be on the lookout for anyone who's seen with him. The young miss here doesn't realize it, but she's given us something to identify the other dissenters. They're kind of discreet about it, but anyone involved with the ringleader is wearing the same gemstone he has on his earring."

He pointed at the drawn earring to emphasize his point.

"Whether if they're seen with him or not, we have to be on the lookout for people wearing the same gemstone."

Handing over the sketchpad after tearing off a blank page so Shan could memorize what the head honcho looked like. "And if it helps," the human Ranger added, "I can tell who's feeling off using the Force and give out a warning beforehand."

He was feeling particularly confident with maintaining his connection through the Force with his senses. The longer they stayed in Shan's ship the easier it became for Yuuta to purge what was left of the drug's effects in his system, and having to focus on the civilians' description and sketch of the ringleader's appearance gave the human Ranger sometjingeto focus on as the healing energies of the Force flowed through him.

Providing the civilians the blank page and the charcoal pencil, Yuuta offered the small group a kind smile.

"We can't take you to the pub with us in case a fight happens. It's imperative that you stay here so me and my partner can be rest assured that you're somewhere safe while we make the arrest. Your safety as witnesses are now our top priority," he told the five. "Can you please provide us with a map of the pub?"

It was true, and these five's safety just became the most vital part of their mission. If he and Shan managed to capture the ringleader alive? These civilians could stand as witnesses to the atrocities the dissenters have committed. The local police and authorities could provide them with more protection the two Rangers could give them at the moment while the case was being processed by the courts.

With a determined nod, the female Twi'lek took the proferred piece of paper and pencil and began to make a rough sketch of the pub. As she focused on the map itself, her thoughts – watched by Yuuta once more – flew to any additional details she wouldn't be able to include in the map.

@Nommie

 

[Uul Rha Shan]

The female Twi'lek nodded, "Yes. I can draw you a map of the pub. It's easy to find as well. Take the east end of the landing field to the alleyway and it will take you straight to the pub. It has a dome shape roof that stands out like a sore thumb." She told the two rangers as she began drawing a map for the two of them after Shan handed her a pad of paper and pencil of his own, "There is a pair of doors on the west side of the pub that no one uses except for delivery days. You should be able to sneak in through there. If not those doors.. there is an escape hatch on the roof." She also mentioned. Having now finished drawing the map she turned it aroubd so Graves and Shan can see it, "There are two areas he could possibly be at. The main one is the main gambling hall right here." She pointed at the big room at the circle shaped room at the center of the building, "If he and his goons aren't there. They could be in their private room over here." She then pointed to another room that was to the left side of the main gambling room. If they are in there it will be easy to get in and prevent them from getting out if you stay close to the door.[/color]"

Shan hissed in thought as he listened to the Twi'lek, "With it dark out now thanks to the rainstorm.. we can get over there without being seen. We have the element of surprise on our side." He noted then looked to Graves, "I suggest we start heading over now. If the storm lets up and he leaves we will miss our chance to capture them." He told his partner as the reptile handed the male Twi'lek the control cards to his ship, "Here. Lock yourselves in and get comfortable. We'll be back as soon as the job is finished. I'll contact you through the ship's comlink system when we are outside the ship." He usually didn't trust strangers. But he has a feeling he can trust these five beings with his ship. Picking up the pad of paper he tore the hand drawn map out carefully and handed it to Graves to carry since he has pockets.

With another his the raptor made his way over to the boarding ramp. Lowering it Shan waited for his partner to join him so they can get going. When he heard Graves approaching the Raptor made false small talk to deter anyone who may have tried listening in from the boarding ramp, "Who knew that they would give us false leads.. they came across as so promising." He mentioned before heading down the ramp, "Now we have to get wet again to find more information." The raptor hissed to put on being displeased.

@Forsythe Crowholde

 

[Yuuta Graves]

Yuuta listened intently to the female Twi'lek as she relayed additional information about the pub and some things he and Shan should look for with particular care. Images of the pub itself and the areas she described flashed momentarily in her head which Yuuta filed carefully into his own while he gazed at her earnestly, encouraging her to continue.

She had done exceptionally well with providing the two Rangers the information they needed – her and her companions, and Yuuta admired their resolve and their desire to end the reign of terror the dissenters held over them. Their determination steeled the dark-haired Ranger's own, and he dipped his head respectfully at each civilian as Shan took the map from the female Twi'lek. He stood at attention when the Tiss'Shar shifted his focus on the dark-haired male. Yuuta nodded in agreement to Shan's suggestion, taking the proferred map and pocketing it. It was now or never, and should they miss this chance who knew when they'd get one again.

The Force seemed to swirl benevolently around his partner, and Yuuta's brows shot up in pleasant surprise at the feeling. Given what he'd learned from Shan's past from their superiors the Tiss didn't seem to be the one to quickly put his trust on others. But he could catch that same feeling of trust from his fellow Ranger through the Force, seemingly directed to the five civilians who began to thank the pair and wish them a good luck. With Shan willing to trust the people they were here to help, Yuuta's admiration and pride for the Tiss'Shar grew.

"Ranger Shan, Ranger Graves," called the female Twi'lek before the pair could exit the galley, "please be careful."

Bowing politely at her, Yuuta offered the group a final wave before moving on to follow Shan out of the ship. The Tiss'Shar began to speak in a disappointed tone while the human disembarked, and quickly catching on his partner's act Yuuta frowned irritably and nodded as if in agreement.

"We shouldn't have trusted those idiots," he grumbled while internally screaming out one apology after another for talking so poorly about their civilian helpers. "And back to square one, to boot! How annoying! And troublesome!"

The pair exited the landing bay, with Yuuta walking side by side with Shan as they took the path the Twi'lek had directed them into. Finding the alleyway she had spoken of was easy enough, and while it seemed empty as Yuuta led Shan through it, the Force-user didn't take any chances on being complacent given the danger they were sure they'd face once they're in the supposed enemy territory.

The pub was how exactly she had described it. Standing out indeed like a sore thumb was its domed roof. Under the cover of darkness Yuuta watched the people entering the pub from his and Shan's place in the alleyway. He trusted Shan's strength and skills, thus prompting the dark-haired Ranger to voice out a suggestion of his own.

"Should we split up?" he asked the Tiss Ranger. "I'll get in through the escape hatch on the roof and sabotage any other escape routes they might use."

The sword bag slung over his back felt a little heavier, the knowledge that he had to use the weapon inside to inflict injury should push come to a shove already steeling the dark-haired Ranger's resolve and at the same time trying to crumble it. Should Shan agree with Yuuta's suggestion and relay his own choice of entrance then Yuuta would proceed towards his own. If he had another suggestion then Yuuta would be more than willing to hear his fellow Ranger out.

@Nommie

 

[Uul Rha Shan]

Shan didn't like talking negatively about those five onboard his ship. He rruly didn't. The reptile had come to like them. And with all the help they had proved to be for the two rangers they are so much closer to getting their job finished. While the negative talking hurt the raptor's goal was to keep those five civilians safe by perceiving to anyone who were dropping in on their conversation that they had not given any helpful information. It will help keep the civilizans safe and also give them an advantage over who they are going to be capturing. If it all goes to plan.

More could have been said as the two walked along the alleyway the Twi'lek directed them to use. But their silence would allow them to hear anyone who may try to ambush the two. Provrn by all the puddles dotting the alleyway that Shan did his best to walk around as he followed Yuuta. The Raptor purposely kept a few steps behind his partner to keep a look out with his sharp eyesight for anything up ahead or anyone looking out for the two rangers.

Luckily the alleyway was empty all the way from the landing field to the pub. Well it was another very welcome lucky break. From their location the two could make out people entering the pub. He looked to his partner as Yuuta voiced his suggestion, "It wouldn't hurt to split up. If one of us is spotted it would ensure it will be harder for them to escape if we come in from two directions. If we come across anyone friendly we could ask for them to block the main way out as well." He suggested, "I can take the back way through the kitchens. If they have any guards there I can take them out while you work your way in from the top." He added. The raptor kept his weapons where they are though on his utility belt. If he is to quickly take out any guards without being heard and ambush them his natural speed and strength will come in better use there than a weapon.

The Tiss instead removed any sort of armor there were on his legs and arms, if there was any on, so that they had more freedom to move easier. He won't need them anyways. If they panicked their shooting will be so sporadic that they will more likely miss than anything, "If there isn't anything else to go over let's get moving. We can talk more later." He will say when Shan was ready to get going.

@Forsythe Crowholde

 

[Yuuta Graves]

He was all ears while his partner spoke, dark gaze already mapping out the best route to reach the escape hatch on the roof without being seen. It would be easy to deal with the guards posted there if there were any, and Yuuta wouldn't assume that there were none simply because of the hatch's location. If anything, he knew it would be better to assume that there were indeed people stationed over the area to make sure that the escape hatch was secured and would only serve it's purpose base in its assigned name, nothing more.

Yuuta didn't ask why Shan removed his armor. Maybe his colleague wanted to have full mobility, and based on what he'd learned about the Tiss'Shar as a whole the dark-haired Ranger counted on his partner natural speed and strength should the reptile find himself in a fight. Yuuta had seen what Shan could do with those claws, and he could only offer a silent prayer to any hostiles who would dare cross the Tiss Ranger's path.

"We're good to go," he told his partner with a small smile. Gesturing at the latter's commlink, Yuuta added, "Let's keep the line open but communications on minimum."

Hesitantly, the human Ranger then gave Shan a light pat on the shoulder – not because he was afraid of the Tiss, rather how the latter might react with the friendly touch. Yuuta had met former slaves before, and while they were averse towards physical touch given the traumas they carried he hoped that Shan wouldn't take the friendly pat as something threatening. Yuuta was as intimidating as a helpless loth-kitten trapped on a tree when he was with his friends, after all.

"Good hunting to us both, Shan," said Yuuta in lieu of a farewell before moving to exit the alleyway. The Ranger didn't look back to check on his colleague's progresd so as to avoid any suspicion from the people on the street. Charcoal eyes flicked from the path to the roof, and he made sure to keep a low profile when he approached the pub. His badge was hidden, and the only looks Yuuta received at the moment were either flirtatious winks from the female... workers... outside the pub and an uncaring glance from one of the bouncers posted on the entrance.

Dark circles were prominent under his eyes and he had always been on the pale side – Yuuta must have looked like a spice addict at first glance to that particular bouncer. The Ranger tried not to pout in mild irritation. Moving past the entrance and to the left side of the building, Yuuta discreetly swept the sidestreet to check if anyone was looking, senses wide open in the Force. Catching sight of a fire escape, the Ranger quickle ascended the ladder after making sure that there were no eyes on him, then reinforced the strength of his legs with the Force before jumping up the roof when he reached the top of the fire escape.

Landing lightly on his feet, Yuuta let out a quiet and relieved sigh when he saw the escape hatch. He could sense a presence under the hatch. The door to the hatch itself was a manual type of thing, and while it would be easy to open it would also alert whoever was standing guard inside. Yuuta could only sense one presence, and knowing that a confrontation was unavoidable now he still needed to get inside the building.

"Okay," the Ranger muttered to himself, placing both hands on the wheel then twisting clockwise to open the hatch. "Here goes everything."

Slowly and painfully quietly (as quietly as the door gave him, though) Yuuta pulled the hatch open before he slid inside. Once again landing quietly, the Ranger froze when he dropped within an arm's reach beside a sleeping human. The man was tall, that much Yuuta could tell as he glanced at splayed long legs and muscular arms crossed over a barrel chest. It was a blessing that the guard was currently busy dreaming, really–

Before the Ranger could let out a quiet breath of relief one of the guard's eyes cracked open. The burly man didn't get the chance to rise from his seat, however, as the sound of a sword bag dropping on the ground and a blade being unsheathed stopped him from opening his mouth halfway to ask who Yuuta was.

The sword stopped stopped just shy of the guard's throat, and he looked up at the intruder whose face was cast in shadow. The charcoal eyes were wide, however, gazing at him unnervingly and without blinking. A hand was waved fluidly over his face, and he could only nod and blink when the intruder spoke.

"You didn't see me come in."

"I didn't see you come in."

"You will go back to sleep and tell anyone that the coast remains clear should they ask."

Nodding dumbly, the guard then shut his eyes and slumped back on his seat, blissfully unaware of the blade now being moved away from his person. The guard snoozed on, and Yuuta – vibrosword held in one hand while the other picked up his weapon's sword bag – continued forward down the hall unimpeded. The end of the hall branched out into two paths. Trusting the Force, Yuuta took the right and found a stairwell at the end of the hall.

@Nommie

 

[Uul Rha Shan]

Shan looked to his commlink as Yuuta made a gesture to it. He was about to ask what about it but the young force sensitive went ahead and covered why he gestured to the object. Oh that is why. The raptor hissed in thought, "Good idea." He quickly agreed. Grabbing the small device he even turned the settings down on it so that if Yuuta does happen to try communicating to him with their commlinks no one will hear it go off. With his excellent hearing the raptor will be able to hear it just fine.

Catching Yuuta hesitate about something as he placed his commlink back where he had it the reptile blinked in confusion as he felt the human pat him on the shoulder. What was all that about? Well he didn't catch any ill intentions with the action since he saw his partner hesitate. Maybe it was a good gesture? Shan probably looked a bit confused as he put together just what occured. Yes. It had to be a good gesture from what he has learned of his partner. Looking at his clawed hands he wondered how he could return such a friendly act without accidentally hurting his partner. How? The reptile has never attempted such a gentle touch before.

Following Yuuta to the end of the alleyway it seemed the Tiss had figured out how to return Yuuta's friendly pat. As carefully as possibly he brought the palm of his hand down on Yuuta's head, a gesture he had seen here and there as a slave. Gently ruffling his partner's hair, "Yes. Here is to good hunting.. uh.. may the force be with you, Yuuta." For a second or two he remained in the alleyway before he left the narrow passageway. The raptor diverted his route towards the back of the building. To not look suspicious the Raptor walked upright rather than in his stalking stance. No one seemed to be paying any attention to him anyways as he made his way to the back of the building. There the reptile did come to a stop when he noticed a bloke harrassing a Dressillian. From the yelling it has something to do with the delivery. Something missing or damaged. Shan noticed that the bloke doing the harrassing is wearing a jewel matching the ring leader they have come with the hopes of capturing.

Snorting Shan got down low, moving in closer as he used the nearby crates and vehicles for cover. The direction he is jow coming in gave Shan a clear view of the Dressillian enough to see that he isn't wearing the particular colored jewel. Meaning he isn't part of the group that carried out the murder. Inching his way over until he was right behind the two men. Shan hissed quietly before quickly grabbing the bloke he was targeting by the throat. Closing his clawed hand just enough to prevent a sound being made. The man quickly passed out from the lack of air. Shan eyed the delivery vehicle then gestured for the Dressillian to get in, "You best to get out of here." The civilian thanked him then quickly got into the vehicle. Hiding the unconcious man ina metal crate after cuffing his wrists together Shan made his way in through the back doors.

Looking around the empty kitchen the raptor quietly walked inside, careful to not let the claws on his feet tap the ceramic floor. Which must have looked like a comedy scene until after a few steps Shan figured out how to walk on the new surface. Hearing a door open Shan spun around to see it was just more civilians. Again none wearing matching jewels. Holding a clawed finger to his reptilian lips, "Me and my partner are here to help you.. you can't tell anyone we are here." He told the three civilians.

One nodded, "W-we will keep them distracted as long as we can. There is a guard right around the corner.." He quickly said before the three of them left the kitchen. Shan waited. Patiently waiting to see if the guard is going to be coming his way after the civilians alerted him to Shan being in there. A minute or two went by and nothing happened.

Time to get moving.

Walking over to the door the raptor poked his head out. No one is coming and just as they said. The guard is at the corner at the end of the hallway. Just perfect. Quietly Shan walked down the hallway towards the unsuspecting guard. When he was right behind him the raptor quickly knocked him out. Catching him the raptor dragged him back to the kitchen. Locking him in a sound proof closet Shan went back into the hallway. Cautiously moving back to the corner of the hallway. Besides those two people he had taken out it seemed the place is quite empty as far as guards. You'd think that the ring leader would have hired more guards. Unless he is that confident about no one coming to get him.

Sneaking into the next hallway Shan wondered if his partner is having good luck as well. The Raptor quietly snorted when he noted that so far there are no guards in the hallway he is in. The reptile will carefully proceed until he reached what looked like one of the main gambling rooms. Just full of tables. No people though. Well how the kriff is he going to get around all these tables without knocking the glassware and gambling chips all over the floor? Talk about a Bantha in a glass shop type of situation he has found himself in.

@Forsythe Crowholde