Peace Be With You

[Kae'Leigh Tameris]

[fancybox2]

ORD MANTELL
0900 Hours
@EmilyHuene ; @ModernMarvel [/fancybox2]

A lot had changed for Kae'Leigh Tameris in the recent year of her life. First, she found a new partner in crime that she hoped would bring her in the big bucks. Then, she found out she was a Force sensitive. Which of course ruined any plans she had of becoming some infamous pirate slicer. Instead, she found herself choosing the good side of things and deciding to become some hero. It was a total one eighty for the blue skinned Twi'lek. She never once thought in a million years she'd join up the rebel alliance and become some freedom fighter. If this Twi'lek came to the younger version of herself she wouldn't believe it.

And truthfully that's what happened. When she learned of her Force sensitivity she was given a vision of the future. She saw herself as the Jedi Knight she was today. She still couldn't believe it had happened. Just a few days ago she was a failing Padawan unsure of whether or not she wanted to stay with the Galactic Alliance or follow her mentor into exile. She had been painstaking decision and up until then she was in constant turmoil within herself. Her mentor had dropped a metaphoric bombshell on them while the rebels were evacuating the system Savereen. Go figure, as soon as she finally goes to see the faction's base they pack up and leave.

Anyways, she'd been invited near around the same time to travel with a different Jedi master to a planet called Ilum. It was a frozen tundra that Kae'Leigh had not at all been expecting. She'd even dressed in all her warm clothes and still felt like her lekku would fall off. But in those icy caverns Kae'Leigh had another epitome. The first was when Vu'thari took her to her home land, that she'd never set foot on previously, and started her training. In her alone time she came to the realization she did not want to be a criminal. She wanted to help people who couldn't save themselves in the way she'd wished someone had saved her and her parents when she was an infant.

But Kae'Leigh found something else in those caverns on Ilum. She'd not only gotten her Kyber crystal but had yet another vision of the future. One that had changed her life for good. Soon after this life changing vision she left the cave -with some struggle- and returned to Master Luy and his Padawan. From there she was instructed to build her saber and duel with him. But the Kae'Leigh who'd come out of the cave was not the same one that went in. The version of Kae'Leigh who started this adventure had doubts, she had questions, she believed she was a failure. This new Kae'Leigh had a purpose. Suddenly everything that had once fogged the girl's mind was now clear and understood. Kae'Leigh had no problem drawing on the Force and proved herself to Master Luy that she was capable of learning their teachings.

And just like that he anointed her as a Jedi Knight. Kae'Leigh had no idea he could just do that. Wasn't that supposed to be done by Vu'thari? He was her technical master after all. Did he have that right? Maybe things were different now that time was a factor. Or maybe it was because some of the Jedi were at odds with one another due to their leaders going into exile. Either way, Kae'Leigh didn't much feel like a Knight and so she left Ilum to seek out her true master to see if she had really passed the test. This is where he said he'd meet her, but she couldn't sense him anywhere. He was probably masking his presence, but it was annoying to say the least.

The woman that had once been an ordinary rebel soldier was now so different that even she did not recognize her at first. Even looking at her face to face in the mirror she couldn't believe what she was seeing. She had a certain look in her eye that finally had that confidence her master had been hoping she would overcome. She was the first of his Padawan but the slowest to learn. Now she was here asking to be given the title of Knight. No doubts, no hearsay. She wanted the official thing. She'd set her Silver Bullet down in a far off hangar so as to not arise any suspicion, then walked into town hoping her presence there would somehow alert him.

The woman walking down the street felt no shame in her identity. Not anymore. She no longer hid like a random soldier, an average Joe as the expression went. Her pilot jacket and leather pants were gone, now replaced by a black suit that had special duraplast plates woven into it. The armor zipped up in the front and came all the way down to her ankles, but not before tucking into heavy duty boots. She still wore her utility belt which was currently lacking with the additional pouches. Over her head was a simple leather headdress common to their people that wrapped around the ears and held her lekku in place. On her left shoulder was a heavier looking duraplast plate that had adorned in the leather a symbol of an eagle surrounded by some sort of angelic light. Any Twi'lek would recognize the body of the piece as a hawk, for Kae'Leigh's last name translated in Basic was: Lighthawk. It was the one thing she knew in her language of Ryl; she still had no one to teach her the language of her people.

So now here she was, standing just as she was then in the vision with pride in her stance, and her Brylark saber hilt resting gently on her hip. Before she'd left for Ilum, Vu'thari gave her a piece of the bark he and the Padawan he was with received on Kashyyyk; this was after Kae'Leigh fled from them. As the wood was harder than most metal, it was a difficult challenge for Kae'Leigh to mold just right. She was good with her hands and figured it out, but she had to get the tools from a Madalorian ally's shop; this of course after the fact they'd told them the truth about themselves. The saber base itself was made almost entirely from the wood as a sort of sleeve. The inner parts she had to buy and collect, a few she had to make herself. Then, over the wooden hilt were blue metal brackets to assist with the grip and also hold the ignition and power output switches together in one place. The crystal on the inside -which still purred with a faint energy all its own- was blue in color; blue like Kae'Leigh.

There was another saber on her hip, this one similar in design. It had a green crystal in it and had been with Kae'Leigh since the beginning of her training. This is what she intended to return to her master, once she found him at least. But with both sabers hanging on her waist, it was crystal clear this girl was some Force user. And...due to the dark color of her robes, everyone around her saw her as a Sith. It kept the bounty hunters at bay, but the civilians around her Kae'Leigh could feel were fearing her. It just so happened that very soon, she'd give them a reason to trust in her.

Looking around, Kae'Leigh tried to sense her master again but found still there was no trace of him. How was she supposed to find him when his communicator was off and he hadn't given her his home address. They'd only parted ways two weeks ago. He couldn't have gotten far....

 

[Aellyn Kerrisoni]

The past few weeks had found Aellyn in a much different position than she had either hoped to be or anticipated. It seemed, unfortunately, that she every time she returned home to Andara, her parents had increasingly investigative inquiries regarding her recent actions and ventures off world. The Rebel was sure in the back of her mind that her parents had to know, or at least strongly suspect exactly what she was involved with concerning the Alliance. They weren’t stupid, after all. Aellyn had to admit that she may have also gotten rather careless and cavalier in the choice of her missions and endeavors. This thought rolled around in her mind as she felt the dull phantom pain of a recently acquired scar on her shoulder where a stray blaster bolt had struck her.


Reluctantly, she therefore knew it was best to take it slow for a few weeks and stay at home as much as possible to try and convince her parents that there was nothing to be concerned about. This task turned out to be much more tedious than Aellyn had wanted it to be. Visiting with Imperials, attending balls and galas, frequent trips with her father to other Core planets had all taken its toll on her wellbeing, and the longer it went on, the more she wanted to escape.


An opportunity presented had presented itself, however, as the Alliance needed some goods transported between a few Mid-Rim systems, including the one she currently found herself on, Ord Mantell. This job certainly wasn’t daring or adventurous, and the probability of being shot at was very low. Or at least, she hoped it was, again subconsciously rubbing her shoulder.


Ord Mantell wasn’t a plant that Aellyn would have normally sought out to visit if she was planning a tour of the Galaxy. It seemed to have a stronger proclivity to criminal elements and the Rebel got the feeling that everyone she walked past may want to hurt her if she looked at them wrong. Trying very much not to do this, Aellyn kept her head down, and her hands in the pockets of her trench coat as she walked near the Space Port. Her outfit was completed with a grey shirt, and dark form fitting pants.


Doing her best to mind her own business, she furrowed her brow and stopped as she walked past a blue skinned Twi’lek. “Wait a minute,” she thought to herself, turning around. “I know her.”

 

[Kae'Leigh Tameris]

The blue skinned Twi'lek was deep in thought that she too walked right by her friend who she hadn't seen since her mission on Kessle. That was during the Hutta rebellion. She kept walking, until a familiar scent of home blew by her nose. Ryloth.....flowers. Kae'Leigh closed her eyes and leaned backwards as if looking up to the sun. Although it was out, the sky was too cloudy to see anything from all the pollution. But the scent of flowers was such a rare thing here Kae'Leigh couldn't get enough. It was a lovely change of smells from this gross place.

Opening her eyes again, she figured the smell would be gone. It might have just come from a break in the smog and she'd never find the source. Reaching out again with the Force she tried to focus on her master, but instead a different aura came to her. And it was close. Turning her head sharply she looked and saw Aellyn behind her, also giving her a look over. Aellyn didn't seem any different from the last time they'd met; she was wearing much of the same clothes, or at least that's what Kae'Leigh remembered. If anything, Kae'Leigh was the one who had changed the most out of the two as she looked nothing like she had the last time. Kae'Leigh then out of nowhere squealed suddenly and jumped at the girl, closing her arms tightly around the human in a friendly hug.

"Oh my heavens it's you!!!!" she shrieked into the girl's ears.

Not wanting to end the hug, she squeezed tighter and took a long whiff of the girl's hair. She didn't care if it made the girl uncomfortable or not; Kae'Leigh wanted to smell of flowers once again. Finally she pulled back, but didn't let go fully from the blond haired woman. She gave her old friend a cheerful smile.

"It's been so long! How are you!"

 

[Aellyn Kerrisoni]

Aellyn was left without a doubt in her mind who the Twi’lek was as she squealed in delight, and ran up to her, quickly drawing her in for a hug. Left without a moment to offer her own pleasant greeting, the Rebel returned the hug with a smile as the memories of her adventure with Kae’Leigh Tameris returned to her mind. Seemingly full of boundless energy and determination, the Twi’lek nevertheless seemed a little different from the last time they had met. Most obviously was the new outfit she was sporting, and Aellyn’s attention was quickly drawn to the saber hilts that were attached to her waist.


The odds of running into someone she knew on Ord Mantell must have been nigh on impossible, however, she was nevertheless very happy to see a friendly, happy face in the relative grim of the city. Kae’Leigh held Aellyn in the hug, and then pulled back, the joy rather obvious to see in her beaming, blue face. “Too long,” the Andaran smiled in response to the Twi’lek’s comment. “And I’ve been well,” she added with a grin, before continuing, “I’d ask how you’ve been, but...” she paused, “wow!” continuing, not really knowing what else to say.


“I like your new outfit by the way,” she laughed with a smile, giving her friends complete look a once over.

 

[Kae'Leigh Tameris]

"Shiny!" she squealed when her friend said that she had been well.

Kae'Leigh was relieved to hear that her friend had a good peace about her. The Force had been good to her, as her master would say. The blond then gawked over her own armor causing Kae'Leigh to look down at herself as if she was surprised she was wearing it herself. It was a very different look she was sporting now. That was for sure. Aellyn didn't need to say that she liked the outfit, it was all over her expression. But she said it anyway which made Kae'Leigh happy nonetheless; things were always better when affirmed out loud.

"Thanks! It wasn't actually my idea. Believe it or not. Vu'thari had them made for all his Padawan." She then realized she hadn't actually explained that much to Aellyn yet so she clapped her hands as if remembering that fact gave her pleasure. In doing so, she involuntarily would have let Aellyn free. "Oh you didn't know!"

With no warning then, Kae'Leigh grabbed Aellyn's hand and began to pull her off the main road into one of the smaller side streets. She didn't need the whole planet hearing her story. Especially since she was announcing to her friend that not only was she a part of the Galactic Alliance -which Aellyn was too of course- but that she was a Jedi as well. They didn't need that kind of attention of either of them.

Once out of listening ears Kae'Leigh would let her friend go and do a double take around them to make sure no one else had secretly followed them, "Alrighty...looks good...uh-huh...ok!" She then turned her attention back to Aellyn and bowed her head for a moment. "So I need to apologize to you. At least about this one thing. It was never my intention to lie to you or hide anything from you. I did so solely to protect my master and the other Padawan in his care. I hope this you can understand of me."

Waiting for an answer she would then continue, "So the last time you saw me I was a Padawan in training. I had on my person a lightsaber, this one to be exact-" she reached behind her and pulled out a metal hilt wrapped in leather that had been on the back of her belt. "I know keeping such a blade with me at the time could have put your life in danger, and I guess I owe you an apology for that as well. Please forgive me."

Clipping the second saber back to her belt she then continued explaining her story, "This blade had belonged to my master. And I've come to Ord Mantell to return it to him. As you can tell, I've got my own blade now. I've recently found my own crystal on Ilum, and with it I was given the status of Jedi Knight. So you're looking at the second most badass Twi'lek on this side of the verse!" She gave Aellyn a wide smile and gestured to herself with her thumb.

 

[Aellyn Kerrisoni]

Aellyn couldn’t help but giggle as she quickly became familiar once more with Kae’Leigh’s unbridled enthusiasm. The Andaran imagined that the Twi’lek was probably in the right line of work to help others throughout the galaxy considering her generally jovial nature. Is that something the Force had done? When it came to understanding the Jedi, the Old Empire, the Force, or pretty much anything related, Aellyn’s knowledge base was practically zero. As someone who was obviously not connected to the Force in any way, she always felt her mind struggling to understand, and on some occasions, buy into, the whole idea of a mythical force connecting every being in the galaxy, and even giving some special powers. Nevertheless, it was something that seemed to bring great delight to her friend, and she was happy for her.


Unexpecting the sudden lurch, Aellyn felt herself get pulled in a slightly ragdoll fashion into a nearby alleyway as Kae’Leigh obviously had more to share that the rest of the high street didn’t need to hear. The Andaran tilted her head and raised in eyebrow in slight confusion as the Twi’lek began her explanation with an apology. As she continued her story, Aellyn’s face resumed its more normal appearance, before forming a friendly smile as she offered her own response. “Oh! No, there’s no need to apologize for anything! Look, I don’t really understand much about the Jedi,” she sheepishly admitted, “but I know anything that you’d keep from me would be for the right reasons. I hope you don’t feel bad about it or anything,” she added with a slight laugh, trying to raise the mood someone from Kae’Leigh’s apology.


“I’ve got to say, that is pretty impressive” Aellyn nodded in approval at the Twi’lek showing her the two different lightsabers. “I’ve never seen a lightsaber in person before, just images,” she added, peering in close at the intricate design of the two weapons. Pausing a moment, Aellyn added, “I’ve got some free time in the city if you’d like to go somewhere a little more appealing,” laughing slightly and looking over at a few bags of trash that were providing a less than pleasant smell.

 

[Kae'Leigh Tameris]

Kae'Leigh was grateful that Aellyn said she did not owe her an apology. No hard feelings then. It warmed the Twi'lek's heart a little. Aellyn was a true friend. The girl would then go on to compliment her saber. Kae'Leigh took great pride in her weapon. It was something she never thought she'd wield in a million years. Kae'Leigh had always been more of a gun girl. Aellyn said she'd never seen one before, and it took a lot out of the blue Twi'lek not to let her see one. Vu'thari's of course; hers was far too personal to let a stranger handle. No offense to Aellyn. It was just something too meaningful to her and she wouldn't surrender it to anyone. Ever.

Changing the subject then, Aellyn offered to take Kae'Leigh away from this dingy alley and somewhere more appealing. Kae'Leigh laughed and nodded her head; her lekku bounced slightly behind her head from the motion. She had to admit that this wasn't the best place to be having a conversation. Even if it was safe from onlookers. "What you don't like my temporary gigs?"

Kae'Leigh laughed at her own joke and then motioned for Aellyn to lead the way. While they walked, Kae'Leigh put her hands in her pockets and searched their surroundings with her senses. She didn't expect to find any traces of her master on the way, but it didn't hurt to look. It would also be beneficial to be on the watch for danger. She was wielding a lightsaber openly as a matter of fact. The black clothing would do well to deter most of their threats. Unless they ran into a Sith. Then they'd be in real doo doo.

"So where's this magical place that's better than my dumpster alley? I don't think you can top all the wonderful smells in that place."

 

[Aellyn Kerrisoni]

Aellyn could tell that Kae’Leigh quite wanted to indulge her curiosity with the lightsaber and give her a demonstration, but she didn’t press any further, even if it would have been really cool. Plus, they were trying to be somewhat inconspicuous, but Aellyn guessed the jury was still out on that second point. The Andaran laughed at her counterparts’ comments at her ‘temporary quarters,’ and responded sarcastically, “Well, its not that I don’t like them, really its lovely, but I just think we could do a little better,” finishing with a wry smile.


The two set out from the alleyway in search of a more palatable destination, but Aellyn wasn’t exactly knowledgeable on the subject of Ord Mantell, but she guessed there may be a spot somewhere near the spaceport. She smiled at Kae’Leigh’s comment and responded, “I don’t know about magical, but certainly less pungent.” They passed a few cantina’s on the way, and Aellyn spoke as the walked by, “Any of these suit your fancy?”

 

[Kae'Leigh Tameris]

As they walked, Aellyn joked about how her "garbage dump" was lovely to which Kae'Leigh snorted with laughter. She smiled to Aellyn and gave her a friendly nudge and then wrapped her arm around the girl to squeeze her in a short, friendly hug. The blue skinned Twi'lek was only an inch taller than the blond human, but her lekku on her head gave her an extra inch and a half so she really did feel taller. Plus, her boots had a decent sized heel to them as well. Probably not the best for long walks on the beach, but it would do nicely to sock someone in the jaw with.

Their travel took them back toward the spaceport where more and more shady establishments were open to them. The kind of places that attracted scum and low lives. Perfect place to get in trouble. Maybe Kae'Leigh was looking for a chance to prove herself because she chose one that had a few exotic dancers out front inviting them in. It bothered Kae'Leigh to no end that both girls were of her own species. And they were nearly naked, save for some pasties and panties. It still showed off everything important and left nothing to the imagination. Kae'Leigh couldn't help but wonder if they chose this life, or were slaves in their own right (had no choice but to work in such a place).

"There," the Jedi Knight said as she pointed to the doorway in between the dancer girls. "I'll blend right in."

She was sure of it. Hoping for it. All she needed was one man to touch her butt and she'd slice his arm clean off. Oh she was itching to try that saber. Her Jedi voice in her head was screaming at her because she was supposed to be using her powers for good. But the other, malicious voice in her head was saying "They're all scumbags anyway. Best to do the Universe a favor."

Walking inside Kae'Liegh made sure her friend was right behind her, lest she would grab the girl's wrist again and make her follow. Gently of course. She wasn't cruel. Inside was exactly what they expected. Dark room with neon lights showing off the girls in glittery outfits. If you've seen one hole in the wall, you've seen them all. The place smelled of smoke and sweat, but the faint whisper of spilled liquor was enough to dull the air so one wouldn't vomit upon entering.

Kae'Leigh took a booth near the front and sat in it. She curled her legs up under her butt and crossed them. Her saber dangled between her legs so no one would accidentally step on it or sit on it. Mainly Aellyn. Kae'Leigh leaned back in the booth and tucked her lekku over her shoulder so they fell down her chest. She gave a smile to Aellyn as a serving girl made her way over to them.

"Something I can get you both?"

"A Pink Nebula for me. Aellyn sweetie, my treat. What are you drinking?"

 

[Aellyn Kerrisoni]

Unfortunately, it seemed that the closer they got to the spaceport, the only establishments present were very seedy in nature, and had a general dilapidated look. Aellyn was not particularly enthused about having to go inside any of them but realized these were probably the best bets for generally blending in and not being noticed. Plus, it was of no surprise that the Cantinas were a reflection of the general odious nature that Ord Mantell and its capital city seemed to possess. Kae’Leigh’s selection appeared to be based on her fitting in, as the front door was adorned with two scantily clad Twi’Leks inviting them inside. Aellyn offered the pair a polite, if slightly uncomfortable smile as she passed.

Stepping inside, Aellyn’s senses were immediately greeted by the overwhelming sights, sounds, and smells that your average galactic cantina maintained. The general dark atmosphere was punctuated by bright neon lights flashing intermittently, accompanied by a set of heavy throbbing music, and the cacophony of multiple languages being thrown around. The familiar stale smell of spilled alcohol and beings from across the galaxy also added to the atmosphere. Or lack thereof. Aellyn looked around with a smirk of faint bemusement on her face that people could actually enter such an establishment and have a pleasant time.

While Kae’Leigh wouldn’t have an issue fitting in, Aellyn wasn’t so sure if she was pulling off the look as well as her counterpart. Her simple fashionable blouse and tight pants, combined with her light coat was entirely unrevealing, which seemed to be just about the opposite of every female currently in the establishment.

They two chose a booth near the front door, and Aellyn took a seat opposite the Twi’Lek, sliding in slowly to the strange plastic-y material of the booth, unsure of what interesting stains were now being transferred to her pants. Before becoming too situated, a serving girl approached and offered to take their orders. Aellyn smiled at Kae’Leigh’s desire to pay for their drinks, and asked the waitress for a, “Correlian Brandy,” with a pleasant smile. Looking back at the Twi’lek, Aellyn joked, “So... you come here often?” with a slight giggle.

 

[Kae'Leigh Tameris]

The Twi'lek waitress scurried off to go collect their drinks while Kae'Leigh got situated. She began rubbing and/or petting her lekku while sitting there. Aellyn would tease her by asking her if she'd come here often. The blue Twi'lek shrugged her shoulders and stuck her tongue out.

"Oh of course. I'm a total regular here."

It was sarcasm of course, as Kae'Leigh had not set foot on Ord Mantell in some time. She knew her Mandalorian friends came here to establish a workshop, and she'd tried there looking for Vu'thari; with no luck of course. She'd also scavenged a spoofing device with a fellow G.A. member here. Maybe she had come around this system more than she thought.

Kae'Leigh then turned her head away to take in the look of the establishment. It pained her to see so many Twi'leks like her running about. Dancing. Entertaining. If she could, she'd use her saber to cut down all the men here and free every girl working here. But then what? She'd have to find a way to get every girl off world, and while they might all fit in her ship, where would she take them? The Galactic Alliance didn't exactly have a base still. So she couldn't take them there. She'd have to find homes for every girl, and jobs for them all. And who would hire a bunch of Twi'lek slaves? No one but more slavers. It was a lost cause.

The waitress came back with their glasses and the Jedi handed over her credits card for her to scan. She started to walk off with it when Kae'Leigh shook her head, "Use the scanner in your apron."

It was an old trick. Take a newbie's card to the back and copy it with a cloning tool. Kae'Leigh was wise to the old tricks. She'd used it herself once or twice. The Twi'lek servant nodded in embarrassment and pulled the card reader out of her apron and slid the chip in. She then handed Kae'Leigh her card back and she slid it into her bra for later use. The Twi'lek server then ran off as quickly as she could in her heels.

"You can't trust anyone these days, can you?" she'd ask to Aellyn. She then leaned one elbow in the table and faced her head to the human. "So, you brought me here. Anything you want to do? Or were you hoping to get a dance from me?"

 

[Aellyn Kerrisoni]

Aellyn offered a soft laugh in response to Kae’Leigh’s joke about being a regular in the Cantina. She sensed that her friend was somewhat put off by the fact that the only dancers were Twi’lek’s and so she didn’t pursue the joke any further. Aellyn highly doubted that they were working aon the dance floor of their own free will, and she wondered if this was all they could do to try and earn some money on a backwater planet like Ord Mantell. The alternative was the potential worse scenario that they had been sold into slavery. She could see how either scenario would upset someone from the same species, but commended Kae’Leigh for still putting on a friendly face.


The serving girl arrived a few moments later and took the Twi’Lek’s card to charge it. Aellyn actually didn’t understand when Kae’Leigh asked the girl to use the scanner in her apron, but the realization dawned on her when her friend explained the meaning of her actions. The short little scene further served to emphasize to Aellyn just what kind of different worlds and backgrounds they were from. The Andaran had never considered that someone could steal her credit information by taking her card away from the table. It saddened Aellyn a little when Kae’Leigh replied, somewhat grimly, that you ‘couldn’t trust anyone these days.’ The human responded, sighing “I guess you’re right. Hopefully we’ll get there one day.”


Laughing again at Kae’Leigh’s comment, Aellyn responded, “No, I’m not going to make you dance,” she paused, “only if you want to.” In response to her second question, Aellyn posed, “Well, I just figured we could catch up a little. I feel like its been so long since I last saw you. Especially now that you’re…” she paused, not sure if she should say anything to noticeable out loud, grinning, “well, you know.”

 

[Kae'Leigh Tameris]

Kae'Leigh appreciated Aellyn's enthusiasm. Sure in a perfect world people would stop hating on one another and every would get along. But even Kae'Leigh wasn't naive enough to think it would ever come about. Even if the Jedi and the Galactic Alliance were to take control over all of the systems, there would still be unrest somewhere. Someone would always be displeased by the powers in charge and revolt would come about. Kae'Leigh couldn't help but wonder at times if they were fighting an unwinable battle.

No! She couldn't think that way now. Even if the system wasn't perfect, she had to at least get rid of the one now. Even if there was one person who hated her for it, there would be millions who were grateful. And that was a balance she would shoulder. That was the battle she would fight for.

Her mood would brighten when Aellyn teased her about dancing. As fun as that would be to shake her hips around, she might save that for later. Maybe after a few drinks she'd be more up to it. Instead they decided to just catch up so Kae'Leigh leaned back in her seat and began petting her lekku again while looking down at herself.

"Well, you know most of my story. Why don't we start with yours?"

 

[Aellyn Kerrisoni]

“My story…” Aellyn started and then paused, not exactly sure where to start or how much to divulge. Kae’Leigh was her friend, but the human felt already slightly, embarrassed, maybe, at the fact that she had experienced such an affluent upbringing when her Twi’lek friend had gone through practically the opposite. Naturally, Aellyn had her own challenges growing up, but what were her complaints to someone who had experienced real hardships, like Kae’Leigh?


Thusly, she began, “Well, I think I told you I’m from Andara, but I may not have mentioned my exact background. My family is technically one of the eight Noble or Royal families from Andara. Specifically, my father is the Twenty-Seventh Duke of Montagarsen and Earl of Sulvaris, and as his only daughter I’m next in line to all of those titles and all the unpleasant events and responsibilities that come with it.” Aellyn added, “it is rather stuffy. Fancy title this and that. Being forced into the life wasn’t exactly my choice, if you couldn’t tell.” It was quite apparent that the Andaran was more than slightly disillusioned with her noble lineage.


Taking a slight pause, she continued with a brief historical lesson on her home world, “the Royal families of Andara used to have actual power and authority over the planets’ actions, but that’s more a relic of the past now. I will say the people still revere and look to them for guidance, however. They do remain an important part of Andaran culture.”


Continuing, Aellyn added, “When the Empire took control, the families had a choice to either go along with all of the Imperial nonsense or, well, I think you can guess the alternative,” frowning slightly. “I don’t blame my family for going along with the Empire,” gesturing slightly with her hands, “but now they feel like they cannot do anything to fight back,” Aellyn continued, sounding increasingly frustrated. “I’m pretty certain my parents know what I am up to with the Alliance, but they’ve never asked me about it directly. I’d hope that they would want me to keep fighting, but I can’t help but feel that they’ve cowered away when the Galaxy needs them the most.”


She took a sip from the drink in front of her and added, “that’s why we have to win, we cannot afford anything less, you know?” Interjecting some slight humor into what she felt was an increasingly heavy conversation, “But hey, what do I know, I’m just the poor little rich girl,” she laughed, running a finger around the base of her glass.

 

[Kae'Leigh Tameris]

"Oh wow!" the Twi'lek remarked when Aellyn explained she was from a noble family.

Kae'Leigh would then sit back up and cross her arms on the table. She curled her head and her lekku into her arms and sat watching her tell her tale; one side of her face covered by her arm. Aellyn explained exactly how that nobility tied together. Something about Dukes and Earls. Kae'Leigh wouldn't lie if Aellyn asked, she didn't have the slightest clue how those things worked in the grand scheme of things. She'd never had the chance to meet anyone of such clout. She felt like she was in the booth with a princess of something. One thing for sure though, Kae'Leigh was not about to let her new friend live that down.

But...it didn't seem Aellyn was too proud of that heritage. Why though? She was royalty. She could have everything she ever wanted and never worry about food or a roof over her head. Kae'Leigh envied that. She'd grown up on the streets. Starving. Stealing her meals. It was a rough life. And in her parents' eyes, it was better than a life in chains. She always wondered why her mother and father abandoned her. But she trusted in her heart that it was to keep her safe. At some point, the waitress came back with their drinks. Kae'Leigh didn't bother to sit up she merely waved her hand in thanks while keeping her eyes locked on Aellyn.

Her friend continued to explain her story and the pieces began falling into place in Kae'Leigh's mind. So it wasn't just the burdens of responsibility that got her twisted in a knot. The Sith -like so many others in the galaxy- had come and drove a wench in between families. Taking over whatever land they felt theirs. So many unfortunate souls lost to their conquest. Kae'Leigh could tell being adopted into their ways would feel daunting. It was scary having a new ruler who demanded so much and gave so little. But what could be done? What could anyone do?

Sitting up, Kae'Leigh reached a hand out and placed it atop of Aellyn's, "You are doing something. Something wonderful. You joined the Alliance. That's a huge step. And I know it seems like there isn't much progress, but think of all the lives we've saved already. That's why I chose to be a Jedi, Aellyn. To help people. To stop the Sith from doing whatever they please and hurting anyone in their path. What you're doing...it's very brave."

 

[Aellyn Kerrisoni]

Aellyn smiled softly as Kae’Leigh placed her hand on top of hers and offered thoughtful a d reassuring comments. Deep down the Andaran knew she was doing the right thing but it so often it was too easy to become worn down by the Imperial pressure of the Empire. Hearing her friend commend her and reinforce all of the work that was being done was refreshing, and Aellyn deeply appreciated it. “Thanks,” she replied quietly, with an earnest smile.


“You know you’re doing the same thing too. The sacrifice, the selflessness. You may not hear it too often but it means a lot to people to see someone as a Jedi,” Aellyn explained. She took another sip of her drink and pondered their conversation for a moment. The only way they could triumph against the Empire was if they showed that the Alliance cared. That it was better. That it was focused on freedom. All of those goals started with the basis in hope and belief. Without those two essential building blocks they’d get no where.


Continuing, Aellyn asked, “So, what does it actually mean to you to be a Jedi? I’ve never been an expert and it certainly wasn’t included in my course work when I was at school.”

 

[Kae'Leigh Tameris]

"You are welcome," the blue Twi'lek would say to Aellyn's thanks.

She would then remove her hand and sit up. Her head turned toward her drink she still had not tasted and would bring it to her lips. The neon pink liquid vanished behind her blue lips and gave her the most wonderful sweetness of fruits. While she'd only ever been to Ryloth once, she imagined this is what its fruits would taste like. Oh how she longed for that peace of home once more.

Aellyn would then give her own praises to Kae'Leigh. Saying she was doing the same thing: sacrifice and selflessness. She was right. Kae'Leigh was sacrificing everything just for the sake of others. She had given up her own dreams and desires to help those in need and somehow she'd become a better person because of it. Kae'Leigh couldn't imagine going back to the life of crime she'd once fallen in love with. It was strange to think that had once been her. She then added that it meant a lot for the people to see a Jedi.

The sentiment made Kae'Leigh hum while smiling. It was true, she hadn't had very many people thank her for what she'd done. A praise here and there from her Alliance captains when she returned from a mission, but it's not like she ever got around to saving an entire village from slavers or heck, even the Empire's forces. Maybe once the G.A. was to become a grander force in the verse she would be able to fight those battles. But they were still hiding out in the shadows. That bothered her some. But it was the group she'd chosen to stay with.

As Kae'Leigh thought about that fact in her head, she'd take another sip of the Pink Nebula and Aellyn would probe her further. She asked what it meant to be a Jedi. That was not an easy question. And Kae'Leigh could talk for hours just on the philosophy of it. Ok, maybe not hours. But still. It was a topic of debate and she felt she could get lost discussing the rights and wrongs of it all with someone else.

"Well, I guess it varies for each person. For me, it's a promise. I was so scared when I was first given a vision of the future. It was on Kashyyyk, during the Life Day event. Myself, a few other Padawan, and my master Vu'thari were all standing at the base of The Life Tree. This is where the bark from my saber came from mind you." She stopped for a moment to hold her hilt up.

"When we all touched the tree together, we were given visions of one another's past lives. Not their like...past lives. Just their own personal past. Anyways. Then we all collectively saw the future. And there I was. In the very clothes I wear today. A proud Jedi with a saber on her belt ready to fight the Empire. I was terrified. I didn't want to be a Jedi. So I ran.

"Vu'thari later sought me out and asked me to at least train with him a little. He feared that I would be captured by the Sith if my powers were not controlled. So I allowed it. And we went to Ryloth, my home planet. It was there I knew that I couldn't go back to being a criminal. I couldn't go back to just doing nothing with my life. So I vowed to be a Jedi, but I still wasn't certain. It took me months until I was ready. I tried to be a good Padawan; that means apprentice. But I just couldn't get the hang of it.

"Until I went to Ilum. Have you ever been? It's a freezing place. I was frozen to the bone, I swear. Anyways, once I got down in the caverns to find my own saber crystal- oh. That's what powers the light saber. Kyber gems. Ok. So yeah. I got my gem and I was given a vision."

Kae'Leigh set her hilt down on the table for a moment so Aellyn could see it a little better. "Inside this hilt is a blue Kyber crystal. And when I touched it, I was given another vision of the future. I was standing on Ryloth again. Only this time, there was a young girl beside me. It was my daughter. I'm sure of it. This crystal, is a promise to myself that I will bring a child into this universe and to do that, I need to make the verse a better place.

"So to answer your question, my way as a Jedi is a promise to my daughter. I will fight the Sith, the Empire, anyone who stands for evil. Until one day I feel safe raising a child. That is what it means to be a Jedi."

 

[Aellyn Kerrisoni]

Aellyn listened with fascinated interest as Kae’Leigh described her path to becoming a Jedi. In a way the Andaran still struggled to completely comprehend the more mythical side of being a Jedi and having a connection to the Force. Part of her mind wanted to think it unbelievable, visions of the past, and the future. Being connected to different objects. However Aellyn knew she couldn’t be so ignorant to doubt something just because it seemed entirely remarkable to her. The galaxy was vast and it contained many more mysteries and secrets than Aellyn could even contemplate imagining.


“That’s ... incredible,” Aellyn commented in response to the Twi’lek finishing her story, slightly at a loss for words. “I can’t even imagine what it’s like to feel that connection to the force, let alone see visions of the past and the future,” she added, peering down to take a closer look at the lightsaber that Kae’Leigh had placed on the table between them. It was intricate, yet simple and Aellyn imagined incredibly dangerous.


Pausing to admire the weapon, Aellyn looked up, her eyes displaying a natural curiosity, “so you’re looking for your Master now? What happened to him?”

 

[Kae'Leigh Tameris]

"Yeah..." she'd agree with a slight smirk and look down at her hands for a moment. She swirled the drink around in its glass.

Aellyn would reply then in wonder almost. Not knowing the connection Kae'Leigh felt. In truth, Kae'Leigh always knew it was there. She'd just never acted on it. It was always prevallent when she knew danger was about, but she'd never thought it had to do with anything magical. And even when she learned she could move things with her mind it took her hours and hours of training just to lift a few wooden toy blocks off the ground. She was far from being a natural at it.

Kae'Leigh would explain a little further, "It's not something everyone has. Or so I was told. And to be honest, I don't know if I could explain it to you. It just is. It's there. No different than breathing. Your body breathes all on its own until you become conscious of it, and then it feels like you forgot how to breathe and you have to force your body to remember how. I can't unlearn what I know, nor can I explain it. It's there. I believe everyone should be able to feel that, they just don't realize they'd been breathing this whole time."

The Twi'lek let that linger there for a moment as she pulled her lightsaber back under the table as other patrons passed by. She clipped the hilt to her belt and then returned her hands to her drink. She swished the liquid around again and then took another sip. Aellyn would then ask the girl what she was looking for her master for.

"Oh it's not that anything happened," she explained. "It's just that I don't know where he is. You see, we split up after the Galactic Alliance evacuated Savareen. He told me to meet him on Ord Mantell. But his communicator is off. So I have no idea how to contact him. I figured I'd do a little digging around and see what came up. He's bound to be out there somewhere."

 

[Aellyn Kerrisoni]

Listening to Kae’Leigh describe her connection to the Force, as almost like breathing, Aellyn pondered, and then responded, slightly more philosophical than she normally felt, saying, “maybe there’s things in the Galaxy we’re just not able to comprehend, you know? But, I would be slightly remiss if I didn’t say that I wasn’t jealous about your connection to the Force, and everything around you. It sounds,” she paused, trying to find the right adjective, “electric.” She continued, “also that you saw the future, and that you’ll have a daughter. That’s just incredible.”



Aellyn couldn’t even imagine what seeing something so life changing would feel like. It raised deep questions in her mind on fate and destiny, that juxtaposed rather oddly with the scantily clad dancers showing off in the periphery of her vision.



Recalling the ordered evacuation of Savareen, Aellyn nodded as she listened to the second part of her friends’ story. “Well, I would imagine that finding someone who doesn’t have a communicator is probably fairly challenging, but can you, you know, use the force or something?” Her vocal inflection changed with her question on the Force, sounding rather unsure.