Ask The Art of Diplomacy

[Ashen Kade]

Location: Generis

Stepping out of the ship onto the landing pad, Ashen immediately felt the heat and humidity of Generis enveloping him. "Tropical" wasn't on the list of his favourite types of climate but he'd make do. It's not like he had a choice, but the remarkable sight that met his gaze made it all worthwhile—the mountainous region adorned with vibrant rainforests stretching as far as the eye could see, creating a stunning natural panorama. The planet was full of life, birds twittering, and the sound of predators and prey alike wrestling for survival in the dense jungles that surrounded the landing area. Ashen rarely experienced places so full of life, having spent most of his padawan years in temples and the like. No. This was a first for him. One that kindled a special kind of joy in him.

"This place is beautiful.". He remarked, taking a moment to admire the scenery from the elevated platform above the jungle canopy. The landing pad itself was nestled within the jungle several klicks south of the primary settlement located on the nearby plains. Picking a secluded landing pad was probably a sensible choice given the mission's need for discretion, even on a rather remote planet such as Generis. It did however mean a small trek through the jungle along a narrow footpath which was less than desirable, but the group had to make their peace with the choice.

Once the initial sense of wonder subsided, Ashen proceeded towards the staircase that led down to the pathway, pausing to allow the rest of the group to disembark before continuing.

@LouJoVi @Scoobert

 

[Aranmir]

Aranmir calmly walked out of the transport, being welcomed by the emerald vastness that were the forests of Generis. This sight reminded the Tiefling of the jungles that covered some parts of G’wenee. There was that time when the circus had visited Bel-Parah, the last city before the entire land was swallowed by endless trees, and he was able to have a glimpse of the Great Jungle. At the time, he was overcome with a feeling of connection with nature. Now, he was feeling that again.

Another thing that reminded him of his homeworld was the high temperatures, not that he was really affected by them. Since G’wenee was also tropical and in the summer the temperatures surpassed the 45°C, Aranmir wasn’t going to complain for being in a planet that had a similar weather. What he didn’t like was when he visited cold planets. The fact that he needed to use so many pieces of cloth on these occasions always annoyed him.

After he gave one last look at the forest, Aranmir walked to where Ashen was, arriving right on time to hear the Knight say that the place was beautiful. “If you think that these forests are impressive, you should visit my homeworld. The jungles there are immense.” he smiled at the Kage, before turning to look at the greenery. “A bit mortal, too. It isn’t a coincidence that the Great Jungle is also named Green Hell.” he smirked playfully.

Then, the Padawan turned to look at the transport, waiting for the last part of this diplomatic group. The smile had disappeared from his lips. “I hope that we don’t attract attention. This mission is to be a secret.” this was why the meeting was going to happen in the middle of the jungle rather than in a city and why the Tiefling was dressed in hiker clothes, rather than in his Jedi robes.

Since he wasn’t an idiot, Aranmir’s lightsaber was perfectly hidden in his dark purple backpack.

@Scrumppe @Scoobert

 

[Drexus Brogroo]

Drexus was on his first Jedi Order assignment whilst still not a Jedi, he is proving himself to be worthy of learning the lightside of the Force. At least he was trying to. With being proficient in both Dark and Light, he would gain an edge against his enemies in the future. This was one of the first steps. He must have been earning trust with Ezra seeing how he no longer needed to be attached at the hip now.

Arriving on Generis, he was with a couple Jedi by the names Ashen, and Aranmir. They were here to secretly meet with a group to talk business. If they were in a public space, they would put themselves at risk of danger. Not that Drex wouldn't mind it, but the Jedi worked differently. They cared for each other's lives, so in turn Drex had to follow and make sure everyone was safe. An unfortunate case but he was going to do it.

Wearing traveler's attire he would stand quiet, he would speak when he felt necessary but he was mostly here to ensure the Jedi didn't die. Especially since they were going to defend him to the death if need be, least he could was return the favor. Looking around he would notice how nice the terrain was on this planet, and then Aranmir had mentioned his homeworld had a much nice landscape. It was hard to imagine so. "On Dathomir the jungles are much more dangerous, but gorgeous in it's own right." He said looking to build some sort of rapport.

@Scrumppe @LouJoVi

 

[Ashen Kade]

Ashen turned to listen to Aranmir, regarding him with a gentle smile as the Tiefling enthused about his home planet. It made Ashe think of his own homeworld, the deep unforgiving caverns of Quarzite. Though he hadn't many fond memories of his home, only those of an unending war between his people and the Belugans, that was just life for a Kage Warrior on Quarzite.

He shoved his thoughts aside, not wanting to sour his mood so soon into their mission. "Maybe you should show me sometime. I'm sure the 'Green Hell' can't be that bad." He teased with a grin reciprocating the Tiefling's playful tone, before shifting his attention to Drexus.

Ashen didn't know what to make of him just yet. According to some rumors Drex used to have a connection to the Sith or something, but whether that was the case or not Ashe saw no reason to dwell on the past and his help was very much appreciated. He responded with a friendly smile to the Zabrak's depiction of his homeland, he hadn't seen or heard much about Dathomir, but he took Drex's word for it.

With the pleasantries aside, the group descended the stairs to the forest floor. Thick vegetation and shrubs covered the path's surroundings as one would expect from a jungle. It was a miracle the path was still walkable in such an environment.

The high humidity and temperature prompted Ashen to take off his jacket and tie it around his waist, leaving him in a plain sleeveless top. Only then did he remember that he needed to find a way to conceal his lightsaber. He turned to Aranmir as he unbuckled his saber handing it to the Tiefling. "Would you mind putting it in your bag? Mine's already full with supplies."

@LouJoVi @Scoobert

 

[Aranmir]

Aranmir smiled at Ashen’s comment. “You bet!” he said, before placing an arm around the Kage’s shoulder. “Save it in your Datapad, because you are going to come with me to G’wenee, mano.” he pointed at the Knight’s chest. “Then we are going to camp at the Green Hell, to see if it’s really bad.” the Tiefling finished with a large grim.

As soon as he saw Drexus coming down from the ship, the Tiefling removed his arm from Ashen's shoulder. He had heard some rumors about the guy, how he was being trained solely by Knight Thorne and that people were 100% sure that the Zabrak dealt with the Sith at some point.

Whatever was Drexus’ past, Aranmir wasn’t going to judge him. The Zabrak was attached to the Jedi Order now and besides these rumors, the Tiefling didn’t hear that the guy did anything bad since he started training with the Light Side of the Force. If possible, he would even give support for the other teen to continue this way.

He smiled when the Zabrak commented about Dathomir. “I heard that there are some giant and dangerous animals there.” the Tiefling always thought that it was one of the scariest planets of the Galaxy. “There is some tales about giant monsters in G’wenee, but no one ever saw one.”

After this brief exchange, the trio walked down the stairs toward the jungle. The sun disappeared over the trees’ canopy, but the temperature was still high. The humidity in the air would make things even worse. Not that Aranmir minded, it was still acceptable for a inhabitant of G’wenee. The fact that he was part of a heat resistant species also helped.

Who didn’t seem to be going well was Ashen. The Padawan was pretty sure that the Kage was going to become a puddle at any moment. Even after he took his jacket, Aranmir could notice that the Knight was sweating a lot. He also noticed that the golden-eyed Jedi had a nice build, but it wasn’t relevant.

“Of course!” Aranmir said, before rushing with his backpack. He opened it, allowing the Kage to drop his lightsaber inside. “You should drink some water. The heat seems to be affecting you.” he pointed at Ashen’s transpiration, while tilting his head. “I think that you aren’t used to a place like this one. Am I right?”

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[Drexus Brogroo]

The talks of their homeworlds was passing their time as they waited, which was fine but overall losing Drexus' interest by the second. The tiefling brought up the monsters thing about Dathomir and Drex would sigh, it was definitely something he heard before again and again. Was it the most dangerous planet? Maybe, but if the people there can live a good life there it can't be as dangerous as other think it is, but he wouldn't make that argument because he'd rather outsiders steer away from his homeworld.

Standing with the others he felt a couple beads of sweat run down his forehead but it was as to be expected. This jungle was hot, and that was just how the humidity here worked. Nothing he hadn't been around before, but it was definitely going to leave sweat beading for the duration of being on the planet.

When Ash had given Aran his saber to put away in a bag, Drex brought a hand up to pinch the bridge of his nose for a moment, then he'd take his saber out, and look at it for a moment and then speak up, "Go ahead and toss mine in there too before I change my mind." He'd give steely look to Aran as he holds his hand out for Aran to take the dark side imbued saber. If he was going to build trust with the Jedi, then he had to take these first steps.

@Scrumppe @LouJoVi

 

[Ashen Kade]

Nothing could've prepared Ashe for the Tiefling's unwavering enthusiasm. The way he spoke with his unique accent and used expressions that Ashe had never encountered before fascinated him. "I'll take you up on that, mano." He smirked, even though he wasn't familiar with the word he's just used. Besides, camping in a jungle named so 'affectionately' sounded like a great idea to the young Knight.

Their little exchange served as a good distraction from his apparently evident struggle in the heat judging by the Padawan's comments. "It's really that obvious?" Ashe chuckled. He wasn't so much thirsty as just unused to the weather, though he figured he'd get used to it soon enough.

It, however, came as a surprise when Drexus unexpectedly offered to relinquish his lightsaber as well, even though he may have had other options to conceal it effectively. "You didn't have to hand it over if it makes you less comfortable." It was rather obvious he didn't really want to hand his saber over even though it was a voluntary choice. "Could've just kept it hidden," he grinned at Drex mischievously.

@Scoobert @LouJoVi

 

[Aranmir]

”Yep.” Aranmir said, emphasizing in the P of the word. “All the sweat is giving you away.” he gestured at the Knight’s body, while giving a smirk. “Taking your jacket off also gave it away. Unless, it was only an excuse to show off your nice body.” the Tiefling raised an eyebrow playfully, while a smirk appeared at his lips.

“Anyway, you should apply some insect repellent. Without the sleeves, it’s easier for them to take a snack out of you.” since his backpack was open, Aranmir put his hand inside and retrieved a small purple colored bottle. On the label there were some writings in basic and a large red circle with a generic dead bug in the middle. “Here, you can use some.” he offered the object to the Kage. “I already used it when we landed.”

He was so distracted talking with Ashen that Aranmir forgot that Drexus was there with them, only remembering the Zabrak when he talked. The Tiefling turned to look at him, tilting his head in confusion. There was no reason for the red skinned Force user to give his lightsaber to the Padawan, his clothes were perfectly capable of hiding it.

“Yeah, your clothes can hide it. You don’t need to give it to me if you don’t want to.” Aranmir said, before smiling at the Zabrak. “We aren’t going to do friendship exercises. At least, not during a mission.” he smirked, trying to bring some reaction to Drexus. The guy didn’t show many emotions since they entered the shuttle.

@Scrumppe @Scoobert

 

[Drexus Brogroo]

Drexus knew they were going to offer to let him keep his saber, but in no way would they feel as comfortable around him if he was still brandishing it. Plus Drexus never really had friends, so this was his chance of making them, and it was best if he hadn't had a saber in his possession.

"I insist. It's a diplomatic mission after all, so I shouldn't need it. Please," Drexus looked at Aran as he would let a smile come over his face, his facial muscles hadn't been used to the feeling but he wanted to look sincere, "Take it." If Aran would refuse then Drex would simply toss it, but he figured the Tiefling would take the saber. Releasing his smile he would cross his arms and wait with them until whoever was to show got here.

Drexus wasn't allowed to many debriefings due to his past with the Sith, but he was here to learn and grow as a person. Whether he believed it possible or not, he would still attempt. Plus the thought of hearing Ezra say "I'm proud of you" was enough to make him want to work for it. If he could get him to say those words, then hey maybe there was a place in the Jedi for him. For now, it was mission first. Unless of course the conversation gets spicy. Same way Aran was eyeing Ashen.

@LouJoVi @Scrumppe

 

[Ashen Kade]

Ashen was taken aback by Aranmir's playful remark, catching him off guard. Although he had no intention of showing off, his cheeks flushed with embarrassment from the Tiefling's comment. Sighing in defeat, he conceded, "No, that wasn't... I was simply too hot." With a self-pitying half-smile, he shook his head, unsure whether Aranmir was teasing him or genuinely giving a compliment. Nonetheless, he chose to let the moment be for now, at least until their mission was over.

He made the conscious decision to refrain from interjecting any further in Drex's lightsaber dilemma, allowing him and Aranmir to resolve it on their own. Instead, he shifted his gaze towards the path that extended deeper into the Jungle, leading towards the planet's capital and away from the meeting spot; "We should keep moving. Wouldn't wanna be late now," he expressed in a straightforward manner, wholly intent on concealing his lingering embarrassment.

He waited for a moment, allowing the other two to finish their discussion before continuing further into the Jungle, veering away from the path. Overgrown shrubs, vines, and dense vegetation obstructed the way ahead, making it a challenging task to navigate through. It was to be expected, given the deliberate seclusion of the meeting spot, but that didn't make the journey any less difficult. Ashen clumsily made his way across, nearly stumbling a few times, but luckily managing to maintain his balance. He was determined to avoid any further moments of embarrassment during this trip and before long they would come across an old overgrown temple of sorts.

"This should be it." He paused, peering at the decaying stone structure in front of him while letting Drex and Aranmir catch up.

@LouJoVi @Scoobert

 

[Aranmir]

Aranmir only smirked at Ashen’s reaction, but was surprised that the other Jedi had reacted this way. He would leave the Kage alone for now, they had an important mission now. However, the Tiefling would return to that later. The way that the Knight acted was really amusing, and even a bit cute.

Drexus’ insistence only made the Padawan shrug. He approached the Zabrak, his backpack still open. If the other Force user wanted to leave his lightsaber with him, the Tiefling wasn’t going to oppose it. It would also make the creepy smile that he had on his face disappear. It was obvious that the Zabrak was trying to smile, but the result wasn’t that good.

“If you want it back, you only need to ask. Ok?” the Padawan smiled at the Zabrak, before closing his backpack. After they dealt with this situation, the three would continue their walk toward the meeting place. The trail was more difficult than Aranmir had expected, but he managed to avoid tripping in some rots.

Ashen’s voice announced that they had arrived in the place. In front of them were the remnants of some type of building, probably one of the ancient ruins of Generis that Aranmir had heard about. “I think that they have arrived already.” the Tieflings pointed to a group of people that was seated around a table made of stones.

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[Drexus Brogroo]

Drexus would shake his head at the the flirtation from Aranmir to Ashen, but he supposed he'd ignore it. Besides, the Jedi have their own different ways of flirting or even just giving each other a hard time. So with that his attention went to what Aranmir had said to him about his blade. The Dathomirian would offer a nod and respond, "Of course."

As the others began picking up the pace to meet with the others for what they had arrived for, Drexus would stride in pace. It was time to see what he wasn't briefed on and get the show started. "If they're already there then let's not keep them waiting." Sweat would run down his forehead some more and he felt the humidity stronger than most planets.

Sweat was soaking into his clothes as well, it was definitely an eye sore.

@Scrumppe @LouJoVi

(sorry for short post)

 

[Aranmir]

The group would arrive in front of the ruins of some type of building. The roof had collapsed many centuries ago and the forest had claimed much of what once was the walls and pillars, covering them with vines and moss. At center was a group of people, led by the Governor of Generis.

The Governor was an old Pantoran with a serious face and analytic eyes. He studied the three Force users as they approached, showing little interest in what they had to offer. The Jedi had shown to be a failure in defending their allies against the Empire. It became clear when he talked. “Welcome Jedi. My time is very short, there are many things that I need to attend to. So tell me, why Generis should side with you even after you proved to be incapable of protecting other planets?”

After he said it, Aranmir turned to look at Ashen. From the three, the Kage was the highest in the hierarchy. He should be the one to start answering the politician’s question. He would give support if it was necessary.

@Scoobert @Scrumppe

 

[Ashen Kade]

Ashen took a deep breath and approached the representatives with a smile, despite the governor's disposition. "Thank you, honourable representatives. I promise we will not take much of your time." Which was seemingly for the better, judging by the myriad of apathetic looks thrown his way. His expression too turned stoic as he began his spiel. "It is no secret that the galaxy has been thrown into chaos in recent months, with Raze's monsters ravaging across systems, the Empire's warmongering against peaceful worlds as well as the countless other atrocities committed against the innocent people of our galaxy." He paused briefly before continuing. "For centuries, the Jedi Order has stood to fight the evil that aims to uproot the lives of trillions for the sake of power, domination and so-called 'order and security'. Despite the hardships we've faced in the previous months, we are here today to prove that the Jedi are committed to the people of our galaxy; to you and to the people of Generis. Whatever it takes."

A hefty, and not to mention risky commitment, but Ashen was aware of that. They were in no position to bargain if they wanted any sympathy at this meeting. The Knight stood with a stern look on his face, ready to respond to whatever response the governor had for him.

"I see, Jedi. And how about the other two?" The governor regarded the Tiefling and the Dathomirian with scepticism. "Are they ready to do 'whatever it takes'?" he asked, adopting an interrogative tone as he reclined in his seat and crossed his arms over his chest.

@LouJoVi @Scoobert

 

[Drexus Brogroo]

Drexus listened to the well worded speech that Ashen had made, and there was a great selling point within it. In his eyes, it should have been enough to reassure the gentlemen that it was going to be a great decision to work with the Jedi. It seemed however that they weren't fully convinced yet, and had their doubts about the Tiefling and Drex himself. A fair assumption in the grand scheme of things, but as far as Jedi help goes, it seemed to be more selfless than selfish so it still confused Drex.

It could be the past the Jedi have had in the public eye, but times have changed and so have people. "I do not fear death. I will defend your planet until I physically can't, if that's what your asking." Drexus spoke as he looked the gentlemen in the eyes with his arms crossed and legs in a parade rest position.

As far as Aranmir went, he assumed him being a Jedi meant he would do the same. Drexus wasn't sure if he meant what he said fully but he said it with certainty and was hoping to help the Jedi succeed here today. It may be a small victory but a victory nonetheless.

@Scrumppe @LouJoVi

 

[Aranmir]

Aranmir heard Ashen’s speech, nodding in agreement with everything that the Kage was saying. The mission of the Jedi Order was to protect the Galaxy against tyranny. Until recently, they could not have been very successful in doing it, but these attempts were made before the Order had recovered its will to change the Galaxy.

“I’ll do anything to help, too.” the Tiefling said, shortly after Drexus gave his answer. He was impressed that the Zabrak had given an answer so deep like this one. However, it seemed to have pleased the Governor, who gave a small smile to the three Force users. Perhaps they were on the right path.

“Good, I thought that you would say something like that.” the Pantoran nodded, before turning to talk with his aides. After some time, he turned back to the group. “There is something that you three could do to help Generis.”

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