Meet With the Ambassador

[Garuga]

Anyone who still believes that it isn't turmulous times for the Republic are either crazy or have been sleeping under a rock for the past year of their lives. Terrorist attacks, assassinations, and even rumours of a possible sepratist movement, only adding to the chaos that the Hutt Empire has brought upon. To ensure that the stability of the Republic's government remains secure, the Jedi order has been tasked to ensure that relations between the Republic and non-republic systems improve. This also extends to the systems that seem unsure of their continued alleigance to the Republic, the Jedi having been asked to ensure that these systems remain loyal by addressing fears and concerns that those systems might hold.

Obroa-skai was an example of such a system, with their political leaders doubting whether to continue their support of the Republic, or whether to leave, hoping that their removed presence as a member of the Republic would mean peace from the hostile Hutt empire. As a Jedi transport shuttle prepared to dock in a major space port of this frozen world, it would be clear that this 'visit' from the Jedi would not be one of casual exchange of information. Haven looked out from the ship for the final time as she prepared herself for the upcoming discussion with the senator of Obroa-skai himself. Haven made no secret of her general distaste of politicians, tired of their endless squabbles and behind-the-scenes struggles for further power.

Shaking her head, dreading the nature of such an assignment, Haven turned to face kouta, her Padawan who she had decided to take along for this mission. While a mission of this nature did not seem to be one that would interest kouta in particular, being one of diplomatic nature, Haven knew that this would help him expand his horizons, and to further understand that the role of Jedi were not simply warriors.

"Well then!" Haven chuckled, slapping her hands together. "Remember to take your warmest clothing with you, i want to leave this freezing place as soon as possible."

 

[Dmitri]

Obroa-skai's government was neither a monarchy nor a presidency. Instead, it's government consisted of a Representative Council, generally formed by couple dozen Councilors.
One such Councilor was the war hero Gabriel Djibril, who had led the defense against the invading Alsakans during the Alsakan Crisis. His popularity, even twenty years later, was still emmensely significant. Of the Councilors, Djibril had one of the higher approval ratings. Despite the breeding propaganda several Senators were pasting on the Shi'ido, Djibril cared for his constituents and had received the concent of a majority of Obroa-skai's inhabitants before announcing his suggestion that Obroa-skai leave the Republic. While the Representative Council had been split on the decision, Djibril promised to take all responsibility. With that in regard, the Representative Council allowed him to speak with the Hutts for a truce. Such a truce was thought to not be possible, but, alas, it was agreed upon.
Many were baffled about this, but Djibril was not. He knew very well the significance Obroa-skai held. While not a major center of import, Obroa-skai held one of the greatest information repositories the galaxy had ever seen. Even more intriguing to the Bogan under the Hutts' wing was the vast libraries about Jedi techniques and artifacts. Were the Bogan to obtain these, they might gain an advantage over the Jedi, though Djibril guessed many of the Jedi secrets were already known to the Bogan, due to the Bogan's current leader being a former Grand Master of the Jedi Order.
And that's why the Jedi have sent someone, thought Djibril, already sensing the arrival of a strong presence, not make that two; Djibril guessed it was a master and apprentice. The Jedi don't want Obroa-skai's pools of information and our intelligence networks to fall into the hands of the Hutts and Bogan. They claim to be peacekeepers, but if that's the case, they'd try to make some peace with the Hutts, not attack them. The sudden and foolish attack on Ando Prime is evident of that. Still, Obroa-skai has not broken its ties with the Republic yet so I'm obligated to meet with them. He grinned. I wonder what excuses I'll be fed with.
Djibril paged one of the aides, an Obroan named Sey, to pick up the Jedi.

 

[Kouta]

Kouta packed light, taking only what he felt he needed. The planet(?) they were traveling to was to bee rather cold. The imminent weather did not bother Kouta so much as the feeling that nothing would really be going on. He read the reports, this mission was to be of a diplomatic nature, a bunch of old men, women, or whatever their species permits as a 'gender'. HE looked over at Haven, who always seemed to have infinite pools of energy, with tired eyes, a result of hundreds of long ours of training and meditating. Even against his master's guidance, Kouta trained long into the hours in the night, trying to form and perfect a style he would not mention to Haven, at least not yet.

All the work seemed to be just catching up to Kouta, "So how long is the trip there, exactly?" he asked, knowing it would take at least a little time to reach their destination, time we would use to rest and recuperate. HE grabbed his bags, and a few of hers with what room he had left in his arms, a courtesy he never lost as he grew.

 

[Garuga]

((Woop, sorry, didn't make it clear enough perhaps that they were 'on the planet', just haven't left the ship yet.))

Haven uttered a word of thanks as she took her bag from kouta. Always polite. Haven smiled, glad that there was a familiar person to work with for this task. "kouta, if there's one thing that you must keep in mind for this mission..." Haven said, her tone somewhat more serious than normal. "Politics is... charred in it's nature to say the least. Just remember, that anything can happen, and be prepared for anything."

As the ramp of the ship opened, the cold temperature of the planet immediately made it's presence known, Haven instinctively holding onto her black fur coat. Even with thick clothing covering nearly inch of her body, the cold was still something that would take time to get used to. "Someone will probably be here to meet us soon, lest their attitude from the beginning is going to be bad."

 

[Kouta]

Kouta felt better, being rested from the trip (Ha, fixed that), The cold from the planet did not bother him in the slightest, he was always a warm blooded person, being comfortable in light clothing whereas people would be wearing jackets and other warmer clothing, still having a hard time fighting the cold, "I think you and I can handle a group of old people yelling at each other, besides, i brought earplugs just in case," he joked, lightening the mood a bit. "If we're lucky they may tire themselves out and have a quick nap." he stated with a grin.

Though behind the jokes Kouta was ready, He knew nothing ever went according to plan, and he did, indeed, have to take care of his actions and words to not upset any one of importance. "It seems as if we are expecting something to occur, otherwise why would we be here?" he asked, "Yea, i get the whole exposing me to poletics, and we, as a whole, are deep rooted into the affairs of the republic, But wouldnt the majority of the technical details relate to the masters and council members?" Kouta's words rung with his curiosity.

 

[Dmitri]

An Obroan exited a shuttle and headed for the ship that the Jedi had arrived on. The Obroan waved them down.
"Welcome Master Jedis, I'm Sey, an aide to our hero, Gabriel Djibril," said Sey, almost praising the Senator religiously. "The Senator has been expecting you. This way please."
Sey motioned to the shuttle that would take them to the Obroa-skai Trophaeum, a large tower that served as the government headquarters for the planet.

 

[Garuga]

"Well..." Haven said hesistantly, this was something she had considered. "We can also think of it as taking preicautions to ensure that nothing happens, but really, if the council has determined this to be enough of a security concern, then we have the more reason to be here." This was true to an extent, though kouta had a point.

"We are here to encourage the leaders of Obroa-Skai to remain with the Republic, but an official delegate of Republic officials would likely be seen as an attempt to 'intimidate' them." Haven continued. "So really, we are here to do their job, and hope that they at least hold a partial attitude towards the nature of the Order." She stopped for the time-being when the arrival of a shuttle captured her attention. Not anymore right now, we'll talk in privacy later. Haven told kouta telepathically.

Stepping forward to greet the official, Haven gave a polite nod, carefully noting their tone of voice as they made their introduction. The obroan spoke of the Senator they were to meet with reverence, and though Haven was not overly aware of the political climate of Obroa-Skai, she understood one concept clearly. No matter in what situation, when figures are looked that highly-upon, the person in question will definitely not be easy to deal with.

"Thank you." Haven said, smiling politely, expecting kouta to follow her actions for now. She boarded the shuttle, gazing towards the immense structure they were headed towards.

 

[Kouta]

Or we could continue like this Kouta replied, speaking withing Haven's head, using the connection she made rather then make his own, which still slipped through his grasp, for the moment. Kouta wasn't serious about his reply though, he could wait until they we're in private for a further discussion.

Kouta did not speak, only nodded his head at the welcomer, acknowledging that he was there, though it was still respectful. Afterwards, he followed haven, who seemed to want him to.

 

[Dmitri]

The shuttle took off the moment all three passengers were on board. The shuttle took them to Obroa-skai capital building. Once docked, Sey led the two Jedi through a maze of hallways until they finally reached the office. Sey opened the door for them. Djibril was patiently waiting for them inside.
"Hello, Jedi," greeted Djibril.

 

[Garuga]

Haven kept a careful eye on her surroundings as she and Kouta were lead through the large structure. Your input will be much appreciated, kouta, don't feel like you have to stay silent at all. Haven said telepathically, reminding her Padawan that he was encouraged to make his assessments also. Just remember your manners... Haven also added, joking.

As they entered the office building, Haven took some quick mental notes, as they met the Senator of Obroa-skai face to face for the first time. Haven lowered her hood, revealing her pure white hair. She smiled politely, greeting the Senator with a nod. "Greetings to you too, Senator Djibril." Haven said, recounting his name. "My name is Haven Magnus, and this is my Padawan, kouta hiroke."

A neutral and typical opening, but the fact that they were here meant business. They weren't here to intimidate or to force fully secure the Republic's intentions, but the others would not understand such things. The Jedi secured peace, and to maintain their neutrality. Yes, this was a mission involving the Republic, but in no way was their presence here to be based on political ground.

 

[Kouta]

Kouta nodded at what Haven told him, smiling slightly to himself at the manners comment. Kouta had no reason to speak though. If he was addressed, he would reply, but other then that, he was simply taking in his surroundings, learning of the place in which he stood.

"It's nice to meet you." HE stated politely as Haven Introduced Kouta to the Senator. Quite odd.... Kouta was half expecting to meet with some sort of pompous ass, but he was pleasantly surprised to find out otherwise.

 

[Dmitri]

"The pleasure is mine," said Djibril. He grinned. "The official Jedi transmission sent to me is that you Jedi are hear to try to persuade me not to secede. However, I believe that's not the case. In fact, it's highly unlikely. The truth of the matter is that you Jedi don't want the vast databanks stored on Obroa-skai to be sent to the Hutts, especially since many are over sensitive research over the Force, plus some Jedi antiques. I am tired of these pathetic games of you Jedi. Hiding behind a facade of peace and kindness, you have a psyche of self-interest and power greed. Banik Kelrada is probably one of the few to show his true colors." Through extensive research, Djibril had learned that there was a high chance of the current Bogan leader being Banik, but he thought best not to state this. "Now, if you want me to even consider allowing my databanks to be taken with you, I suggest you..."
Djibril looked down. A bullet wound was on his chest.

 

[Garuga]

Haven frowned. it was as she had expected, another politician who is completely wrapped up in their webs of deceit and political games. This was no matter of deciding the best for the wellbeing of Obroa-Skai and it's people, this was just another typical case of a power hungry and deluded mad man. Nevertheless, Haven waited patiently for the senator to finish, knowing that interrupting now would only escalate and further solidify whatever views the man held. She knew that the Order's intention behind their visit here had nothing to do with whatever the Gabriel had ranted about, but Haven was still rather disturbed by the notion that people who hold such hostility towards the Order.

As she continued to listen to the Senator's rambling, taking the time to think of her reply, a sharp prang of warning from the force caused her to jump forward by the Senator's side, only to realise that she was late by a fraction of a second. A bullet had struck home, and Haven immediately held onto the wounded man, whipping her head around to locate the source of the bullet. The shattered glass of the window pointed to one thing only. The assassin had struck from the only other building that could provide the vintage point possible for the shot. The tower of justice, Jinzhe der tar, the pure white gleaming pyramidal which served as the central investigation cadre building.

"kouta!" Haven shouted out, preparing herself to do whatever she could for the injured Senator. "Get a transport speeder or anything ready!" Without turning to see whether kouta had gone ahead, Haven covered the Senator's wound with her right hand. Mustering the force currents around her, Gabriel's wound was immersed in a pale blue gleam. She could only hope that it was enough to save his life.

 

[Kouta]

Kouta found the Senators rant rather humorous, though kept those thoughts to himself. How self conceded could one man be to claim to know the motive behind one's actions. Though he did have a point, the information was vital, and securing it would be favorable, but it wasn't the reason those two we're there. Kouta was about to speak up when time seemed to slow down. A spat of blood across Kouta's chest, expelled from the senators own, Haven Screaming, seeming to not give a thought of her own life, HE turned, but not to a speeder, but towards haven and Djibril. Wrapping one arm around her, and another around, He made the three of them tumble to the side, behind a small amount of cover, "Your no good to him Dead Haven." Kouta's voice calm, yet somewhat authoritative. "I'll be back." Kouta was no stranger to being shot at, Granted it was never from a high powered rifle, but gunfights were common occurrence as he grew up.

Using the Force to greatly augment his speed, He dashed from cover to cover, Far to fast for a rifleman at that distance to track, until he was out of sight. Less than 30 seconds past before Kouta returned, Sliding to a halt between Haven and the Senator, and the Rifleman's Location, "Let's go!" HE called to her, Rushing out of the speeder, opening the doors so he would be able to assist them both inside.

"Haven, i need you to try to find where the bullet is." he started, "Is there an exit wound? How is he Breathing? Does it sound as if he can't seem to catch his breath? At the Very least apply pressure to the wound to try and slow the bleeding. Time was not on their side, and it was not long before they were gone, Searching for the nearest Hospital.

 

[Dmitri]

The sniper, a Lamia named Barrel, cursed. Takka the Hutt, a Hutt who had his eyes set on controlling Obroa-skai, had hired Barrel to assassinate Gabriel Djibril. Djibril was a Shi'ido, a shapeshifter, so blaster wounds wouldn't be as effective as solid projectiles, a method of weaponry not used often. According to rumor, the Shi'ido was paranoid and careful, surviving a blow to the head a few years back thanks to having placed his brain in his chest. Thus, the sniper aimed for the Senator's chest. The bad news was that the explosive bullet failed to dentonate. To make matters worse, there were two Jedi present.
That slug said nuthin' about Jedi, cursed Barrel.
Barrel aimed his rifle but was unable to get a clear shot. When one of the Jedi bolted, Barrel shot at the Jedi, but missed. With little ammo, Barrel decided to conserve his ammo. He began packing up his gear. The Jedi knew where he was so his current location wasn't safe anymore. However, he could guess where they'd go: the nearest hospital.
"I'll position myself so that I can ambush them when they reach the hospital," decided Barrel.

 

[Garuga]

Once kouta placed his hand arounds her, Haven returned to her senses, realising that she had forgotten about the persistent threat of the sniper in her rush to help the Senator. Nodding to know that she understood, Haven immediately returned her attention towards healing the senator. She was not completely sure how serious the injury was, healing not being her forte. Nevertheless, while Haven continued to apply the healing currents over the wound, she could tell that the bullet had no exited Gabriel’s body. Biting her lip, struggling over what to do, Haven stopped her healing for a moment. The senator was not completely conscious at this point, but his condition seemed to have stabilised somewhat, making Haven more confident in her next action.

With one hand raised, Haven closed her eyes, focusing on the bullet that was still planted within the Senator’s chest. Taking care not to aggravate the wound even more, Haven removed the blood stained bullet from Gabriel’s body in one fluid pull with the force. immediately, she resumed her healing, watching the wound close as the blue light did it’s work. Though that area would be extremly tender, just like a freshly healed wound, Haven knew that he would survive. As kouta returned with the speeder, Haven had already devised a plan, one that would depend on swift execution. She was puffing, healing hardly being her field of expertise. The healing had been draining on her to say the least, but Haven knew that she would have to quickly move if this next stage is to be successful.

”Quickly.” Haven said, swallowing before continuing. ”Get him into the landspeeder, no time for explanations.” Haven immediately dragged the Senator the landspeeder, which was able to accommodate his size fairly competently. ”He’ll live, but we must make sure nothing goes wrong this time. There is no way the assassin will be giving up just after this attempt. The Senator will be fine right now even without medical attention, but the assassin doesn’t know this.” Haven said, getting into the driver seat. ”We’ll do as they expected for us to do, i’ll take the senator to the hospital while you find another speed or jetbike. Stay far enough away from us to be unnoticeable, and go after the target immediately once they make a move!”

Yes, Haven was using herself and the Senator as bait, but there was no way she was going to simply let the assassin escape. She knew that she was too fatigued to effectively go after the assassin, and while this would be a demanding task for kouta, it was a necessary one. Haven started up the engine, turning to look at kouta one more time, her face animated. ”i’ll come support you the moment i can, but just remember everything that we’ve gone through.” Haven said, as the speeder prepared to launch away. ”And stay safe!”

 

[Kouta]

For once in his life Kouta was at a loss for words. HE wasn't worried so muh that the Senator would die, he meant little to Kouta. What gave Kouta cause for concern is that Haven was throwing her life out their again, something Kouta was trying to prevent not moments before. Your Telling me to be careful? He nodded in acceptance, his words sent directly to her head. Taking off to find another means of transportation, he finished with, Your the one that needs to take care, if our gunner has half a brain, He'll already be there, with ambush in wait, beware of explosives. Kouta cut the telepathic connection, as the distance made it difficult for him to keep it maintained.

Kouta "Borrowed" another speeder, this one was smaller, much faster, able to catch up, keep distant and ultimately speed in if something went awry. It wasn't long before Kouta caught up to a point where he could feel where Haven was. Sadly, he was unable to do this to locate anyone else, he had just become use to the way her energies felt. HE was out of sight, however, just another speeder in the traffic.

 

[Dmitri]

Barrel nestled himself in the arboretum behind the hospital, conveniently in the direction of the ER entrance. Taking out his sniper rifle, Barrel perched it, aiming at the hospital. He loaded the antique rifle with another explosive bullet.
"Just you wait," snickered Barrel. "I'll kill you all and get that promotion from Takka the Hutt."

------------------------------------------------------------------------
Djibril began to wake up. He found himself in the back of a speeder. His chest was burning.
"What happened?" he asked the driver.
He then realized who the driver was.
It was Haven.

 

[Garuga]

As Haven focused on the driving, she kept her eye out for possible locations of attack from the assassin. Though she kept her sight in front of her, Haven could detect the senator stirring, turning to quickly glance at him before turning her attention back to the wheel. "Hello again, senator." Haven muttered, as the hospital approached with each second. "Unfortunately, it appears that the Hutts who you have placed so much... trust in, have in turn repaid your kindness in kind."

Nearly at the entrance of the hospital now, Haven knew that she would have to convince the Senator in a very limited amount of time to follow her plan. Otherwise, even if she had saved his life, the assassin would likely never be apprehended. "Now, listen closely." She said sternly. "The Hutts would have succeeded in their kill had we not been there. On that account, before we get into a discussion about Galactic politics and all, i expect you to comply with what i tell you to do for the time being. is that clear?"

 

[Dmitri]

"I may be stubborn, but I'm not stupid," snapped Djibril, his vexation a sign that he was doing okay. "I'm all ears. So, what is it you want me to do? Shift into another form? Grant access to somewhere? Speak."