Shadows of the Force

Coruscant
The Underworld,
Level 1592




In an abandoned building, that used to be some sort of store, but now it serves as a meeting place away from prying eyes. A humanoid, blind in both eyes, is speaking as he puffs on what looks like some sort of pipe, as he speaks softly in the dim lighting. He is speaking slowly, his eyes unfocused.


...."Our senses have been honed over countless millennia to allow us to navigate the intricacies of the physical world. But because of that, our senses blind us to the fact that we are much more than our bodies. We truly are beings of light. The younger Jedi, needed to be raised in the light and to come to see that light as unblemished, undivided. But you and I, and those of our group, haven't had the luxury of that indoctrination. We see that darkness. But we also see the light...

He coughs slightly, shanking his head slowly, as he continues.

"The Force is a tool, nothing more. Sometimes a weapon, sometimes a blessing. Dark Side, Light Side, these are distinctions of insignificant difference. Do not fall into the trap of classification. That is an illusion...."

He then grows silent as the meeting is about to begin.
---------------------------------

Once, the Jedi were spread wide across the universe, in many temples and academies across the Galaxy.

We told the council that it was a bad idea to gather us all in one location. That they should not join the Republic, and that they should stay neutral. We were out-voted.

Once, the Jedi were the most respected by those who stood for peace and feared by those who represented the more dangerous elements of the universe.

We warned them that the sentiment that was growing against the Jedi could become deadly.
We were told that could never happen.

Qui Gon had warned them that there was a Sith.
We believed him, and we were shrugged away.

Once, there were over 10,000 Jedi or more roaming across the galaxy...

Once, but no more.

But we are still here.

--------------------
Shadows of the Force

There was a part of a little-known group within the order. An elite group of Jedi that was on missions in the lower levels of Coruscant, and various places within the galaxy. They stayed undercover, with their identities known to only a few. Know as the Jade Circle, they represented Jedi , who are Jedi in name but are not like the other Jedi. They don't live in the temple. For most of them, once they are assigned to the group, they never go back to the temple. And when they do, they change their appearance so as not to be recognized. They don't wear Jedi robes. They used regular names and dress. They do not openly carry a lightsaber. And when they do, it can be disguised. They also do not limit themselves to using only lightsabers. The group was assigned the dark and dirty cases that the other Jedi were not allowed to take. Blackops, if you will. The Jedi within this group are rough, gruff, normally thought of as 'untrainable' as 'regular' Jedi. And when they take on new students, they do from within, not dealing with the Jedi Council, and sometimes from those who would otherwise be dropped from the Order. But they were quite well adapted for what they were needed for. They didn't see the world as most other Jedi. They saw the truth. Unlike the Shadow Jedi, who concerned themselves only of things Sith related, the Jade Circle dealt with the other enemies and issues of the Jedi.

These few Jedi were privileged with information know to only a few of the High Council. They dealt with the dark matters that the council did not want to be known to the others. The skills of each Jedi in the group are unique, but one thing they all had was the ability to cloak themselves deeply within the Force. (Force conceal) It would take a powerful force used to be standing nearby, while they were using the Force to be discovered.

And they knew.

They had been warning the other for years. They spoke of how the Jedi had removed themselves from the people they once served, and the rumbling from the underworld was growing louder. The Jedi had grown arrogant, and too sure of themselves. Meanwhile, from the depths of Coruscant, the rallying cry of "How can the high and might Jedi call themselves defenders of the weak, while they let billions suffer right beneath their feet, every single day." was growing from a whisper to a roar. And while the unit did the best that they could, to help the people down below, since the people did not know they were Jedi, it did little to stem the growing settlement. Only a few select civilians knew them for what they would and appreciated them greatly. And then the clone wars came, and hardships and death came to the underworld in great numbers. Hundreds of millions of civilians died, buried beneath rubble when ships crashed onto Coruscant during the battles. And millions more were pushed into productions for shipbuilding and other tactics for the war efforts, some calling it, a new form of slavery. And they blamed the Jedi for their hardships, as they did not stand up for the rights of the people, but instead played into the Republic's hands and wishes. And when they did not seek to take a closer look at this newfound army, they knew the Jedi's days were numbered.

----------------------------

The road will not be easy.

The group was part of a set of 3 Jedi teams who were still working on Coruscant during the war. Your group has been deep within the Underworld, on task with their assignment, which involved saving a group of children from being auctioned off, all of them non-human twins, for various purposes it was better off not knowing. They saved the children and returned them to their families. That all the children were also force sensitives, had also been suspicious.

Then came Order 66

It was as if a supernova in their minds had suddenly exploded, and then grew dim.. They all could feel it. The shining beacon that was the Force within the city, flickered and grew dim. But not just the temple. It felt as if it was all over. The shockwaves covered the galaxy. They knew that what they had been warning others about for so long had finally come to pass. Some of the group took off, never to be seen again. The remaining groups quickly decided to go into their deep covers, and they would meet up every couple of weeks at various points within the Underworld.



As weeks passed, chaos erupted on Coruscant. As the temple burned, the Jedi haters rose. Not too long afterward, huge bounties were put out on any remaining Jedi that could not be accounted for. Posters went up everywhere. But not only for Jedi. Those who had helped Jedi before and others began to feel the pressure as well. Jedi sympathizers were being turned in, and anyone who was even thought to be force sensitive are being turned in for 'questioning'. Many regular people were caught in this web as well, as they scoured the cities.

Non-humans are hidden for fear of persecution from beings belonging to 'humans first' groups that have risen up. New dangers are now being seen now in the underworld, besides bounty hunters. Strange uniforms, other than the underworld police. A new trooper with new armor suddenly appeared and few people survived an encounter. And a name. 'Purge Troopers'. And rumors of another new elite group of Jedi Killers being trained were also whispered.



At the last meeting, the group had, you were shocked to see so few. You don't know if they still live, or perhaps they have made it off-world. But for now, your group is together to decide their next move, as the planet tears itself apart. You know you can't just book passage. They are looking for any force users on all ships. Even private ships must deal with the Purge Troopers if they are lucky. Your group is fortunate, in that your faces were not stored in the database in the temple, so they don't have any information on you. No photo to place on a wanted poster. And while you were paid originally in Republican Credits, your group had quickly converted them to a currency that could easily be spent down below. But not now, of course, you are cut off from the funds and accesses that you had before.

As you move about, various stories are being passed along, throughout the Underworld. The top ones:

~~~~

A huge bounty for the body of Jedi Master Mace Windu was rumored to be killed near the Chancellor's office. So far, nothing has been found. But if rumors are true that he fell... they might never find a body.

Rumors of the now Empire working on a device that could identify a force user instantly with just a pass.

Massive numbers of beings are trying to leave Coruscant. Those who can afford it are booking passage on anything heading out. Getting to Coruscant is no problem. Getting out, however.. Even ex-senate officials are being forced to be scanned and boarded, before being allowed to leave.

Certain Senators have been disappearing. Rumored to be murdered by stormtroopers.

~~~~

So now, you are here to decide your next move. To attempt to leave Coruscant, or perhaps to stay behind and find a safe place for yourself and others? Or perhaps there is another alternative??

The choice is yours.
-------------------------------


It's now been 12 weeks since the fall.

The last message received, was a message warning all Jedi to stay away from Coruscant...

You can be either a member of the Jade Circle(Jedi Special ops) who now find themselves on the run or you can be a civilian (non-Jedi) who is not happy with the change of events and does not harbor any resentment of the Jedi or the Old Republic. It is not without dangers of course. (Diplomat, commoners, Coruscant Police officer, scoundrel, etc... we can talk.)

-----------------------
Rules (Yes, we have them)

1) No Godmodding
2) Up to 2 characters accepted per person. (unless given permission by GM via PM)
3) Follow the rules of the TOC.
4) Have fun.
5) No canon characters allowed.
6) Character sheet *must* be approved by GM before posting.
--------------------------------------

Character Sheet

Name:
Sex:
Species:
Age:
Rank: (if any)
Weapons:
Physical description or Image:
Languages:
Specialty:

-----------------------------------------

All Jedi that belong to the Jade Order has one special skill. The one skill all the Jade Circle would have would be Force conceal... which keeps them well hidden from everyone unless they are seen actively using their force abilities.

---------------------------

Lightsaber: If any, give specifics of what it looks like and where you normally keep/hide it.
Ship (If any): None with Hyperspace drive: Local Coruscant system only
Equipment: if anything special, needs to be approved.


For the GM Only:
Do you have a Force Using skill, that falls under your specialty that you have developed for your specialty.. then lets talk.
----------------------------

You can be any rank, however, if I get a lot of people asking to be Jedi Masters, I will probably cap it, so that we can have some of the other ranks as well.

Also, I will allow you to have a specialty, and allow you to explain to me the skills that you have in order to help your specialty.

----
Specialties:

While you might have training in many things, there is one thing that you are very good at: Pick one speciality to focus your path on. Here are some of them, but not limited to:

Infiltration

Becoming masters of stealth and ambush. The action of entering or gaining access to an organization or place surreptitiously, especially in order to acquire secret information or cause damage.

Skills include:
Stealth
Awareness
Persuasive (intimidate)
Camouflage
Combat
Shadow strike
Acting, dancing, singing
Value - know the cost or worth of a particular object or service
Gambling
con
bullying
luck

Tactical

Tactical skills are defined as “the decisions and actions of players in the contest to gain an advantage over the opposing team or players. Knowledge of how to place troops and materials to attack the enemy. Proficiency in Tactics represents knowledge of how military operations function, including the different types of units involved (infantry, cavalry, scouts, spec ops, war machines), how those units interact with terrain types, target types, and each other, how different resources and geographical features affect military strategy, and so forth.

Skills include:
Combat (fighting) strategy
Battle History
politics
battle maneuvers
survey enemy strengths and weaknesses
Terrain study
tactical movement/traps

Investigation
Investigation. When you look around for clues and make deductions based on those clues. Finds hidden threats. The ability to gather and make use of information regarding a person or organization’s activities.

Skills include:
computer use,
diplomacy,
gathering information,
spotting clues
persuasion
Search


Mechanical
A technician or mechanic was a person who was skilled in maintaining and repairing technology.

Skills include:
Repair, build, deactivate/reactivate droids, shields,
fixing and modifying jet packs
fixing and improving starship weaponry and design
creating/fixing new body armor types


Technical Specialist
Specialized in computer knowledge and in security evasion.

Skills include:
Computers programming and repair
electronics,
hacking,
disable device
encryption


Medical
Works in healing injuries, and curing the wounded.

Skills include:
Heal
Reduce pain.
Empathy
Increase damage
Deflect attack
Treat exhaustion
Treat injury
Treat disease,
Treat poison,
Treat radiation.
Cyborg technology

Pilot
A pilot is most at home in the cockpit of a Starfighter and uses his mastery of the Force in the skill of flying a ship.

Skills include:
Ships
computer skills,
astronavigation,
pilot, repair
swoops

Survival
Survival allows you to navigate, hunt, track, predict the weather, read the landscape, identify animal/monster markings, etc. It is your ability to manage living or traveling in certain landscapes and being aware of the dangers therein.

Skills include:
City (slums, high society)
Wilderness
Desert
Artic
Traps
Obtaining food, supplies

Security
Overall, security is tasked with securing the premises and personnel by staying on patrol, monitoring surveillance equipment, and guarding entry points, and people.

Skills include:
Demolitions/munitions (set, disable, recover),
hand-to-hand combat,
food and drink
Weapons Proficiency
Armor Proficiency
Guard
Weapon (assembly/build, load, repair)
Weapons Proficiency-blaster pistols, blaster rifles, simple weapons, vibro-weapons, slugthrower, (lightsaber for Jedi)
Armor Proficiency
Stealth
Awareness
access electronic locking devices
bullying
persuasion

Politics
The user, either innately or through training, is a master of politics. The user can intuitively understand the mechanics behind any policy, political system, and power dynamics, and understand how to manipulate it. Users have an intuitive mastery of the associated political skills, speech, and body language, expertly sending all the right signals, granting them major leverage in any political situation and allowing the user to easily be successful in any political situation regardless of who they exert these talents on.

Skills include:
Socializing
Politics
Strategizing
Speech and body mannerisms
Authority
Administration Intuition
Deception Intuition
Economics Intuition
Speech
Enhanced Charisma/Cooperation/Socialness
Enhanced Perception
Negotiation Intuition
Opportunity Sense
Overwhelming Influence


Gambler
Gamblers rely on luck and chance. Gamblers are tricksters and con artists by trade. They traverse the bars with the same gait, applying the same card-up-the-sleeve tactics to every aspect of their life. The Gambler lives an 'enchanted' life, misfortune never seems to visit him for long. Subterfuge and sleight of hand always seem to be the winning bet.

Skills include:
LUCK
Dexterity
Appraise
Bluff
Diplomacy
Disguise
Escape Artist
Intimidate
Perception
Stealth
Perform
sleight of hand
Dodge
Enhanced Charisma/Cooperation/Socialness


And one last thing....

Have fun!!



---------------------------------------------
OOC: It will probably be a week or so before the game launches. Depending on how many character sheets will need to go over. We will hope to go for the minimum 1 update a week.

Thank you.

 

Name: Dannan Antilles (Dan)
Sex: Male
Species: Human
Age: 29
Rank: (if any) Captain
Weapons: DL-44 heavy blaster with sighting laser, stun baton, small utility tool with a knife
Physical description or Image: Shaggy dark hair, dark eyes.
Languages: Basic, Corellian, a smattering of Rodian & Twi’lek, understands several others including Huttese
Specialty: Investigation
Ship (If any): owns a landspeeder, but not a personal ship. Mostly flies a Z-95 Headhunter. Prefers to ride a swoop bike, but hasn’t bought one yet.

Equipment: Nothing special. A first aid kit, a datapad, comm device, a very small utility knife with attachments to make repairs. Usually keeps a small ration bar stashed in a pocket.

Special skills: He’s Corellian.

 

GM Approved @Ktala

******************
Character Sheet

Name: Ker Zardos, ‘Zard’
Sex: Male
Species: Human
Age: 42
Rank: Jade Order
Weapons: Collapsible staff/ stun baton, Disruptor Rifle, Blaster Pistol, Vibro Blade
Physical description or Image: 6'3, 195lbs. Athletic build. Wears dark grey clothing and gear, trench coat

Languages: Common, Huttese, Falleen
Specialty: Security
Lightsaber: Yellow Bladed Lightsaber (Dismantled, side pouch )

Ship (If any): None
Equipment: Communicator/ Translator, decoder, datapad, First Aid kit

 

Coruscant
Tears of the Force




Ker Zardos, Jaa Kellos
The Underworld, Level 1592

It's raining. Then, this deep down, it is almost always raining, if you want to call this stuff rain. But it's cold and wet, and seems to seep into everything and everyone. But it has a plus side to it. It keeps most of the regulars off the streets. And those who do venture out, move with purpose and quickly head indoors. So there are not too many curious eyes about, as very people make their way into an old abandoned store. The old man says nothing but simply nods his head as people show up. He takes a puff from a very old pipe, probably as old as himself.

Ker Zardos, arrived followed about twenty minutes later by the arrival by Jaa Kellos. They scanned the room, seeing no threat. They had seen the old man many times before. They knew things were bad. But it looked like they, and the old man were the only ones to show to the called meeting. They both waited, for another ten minutes, when the old man sighed, as he stood up. "I was hoping for more, but it seems that they have been delayed." He stated sadly, shaking his head. He gave a long draw from his pipe, letting the smoke out slowly thru his nose.

"We are the last of our cell. There will be no other meetings. Things have simply gotten too dangerious." He frowned darkly. "It would be one thing if it was only those cursed new Purge Troopers, but as you know, the Jedi hate is burning hotly. The people have suffered during the war, and right now, they needed someone to blame. So they have chosen the Jedi to be the source of their anger."

The sightless man raised his head slowly.

"So now, it is time to choose what we do. The old order is gone. And the rampant patrols and hunts are putting all force sensitives in danger. But luckily, we still have some friends within the cities. But now it is time to choose how you wish to continue forward. I leave the choice up to you." He turned he head slightly to the right, before slowly turning to look towards Jaa Kellos and Ker Zardos.

"As you know, the Senate was dissolved. And not all the Senators made it off-world before the attack. Some are now in hiding, trying to find a way off-world. Our sources tell us that some of them have found their way to one of our sites. But we have not been able to get in contact with anyone, as it is being watched. Also, we have reached out to some of our contacts still available to us. Some folks are fleeing to other planets if they can't afford to pay for getting out of the system. Some have opted to move away from the main city. Especially many of the poorer alien beings. The anti-alien sentiment has also grown. It is chaos on the streets. CorSec is overwhelmed, and are basically just honkering down, trying to keep the peace where they can. The Troopers are now handling any major disturbances, and folks dont tend to survive their encounter."

The man took another long puff of his pipe.

"We still have some of our contacts in the underworld. Mazy is still operating, but we know that she might not be safe for long." Mazy was a middle-aged healer, down on level 1593. Really rough neighborhood, but she was guarded. The reason the people looked out for her because she was known far and wide as a healer. And a very good one. She treated all who came in, often for barter, since most had no monies. She didn't ask questions, she simply treated all who walked thru her doors. She had even treated a few Jedi from time to time. Her skills were a rarity in the area, so she was a guarded asset.

The man coughed.

"Any comments?"



TAG: @greyjedi125, @The Jedi in the Pumas



----
Dannan Antilles
The Underground, Level 1557

It was raining. Of course, down here, it is always raining. Dannan Antilles scanned the area. Why was he down here? He was investigating. He had been tracking a set of so-called Bounty Hunters, who in turn was being followed by a Purge Trooper. That was a curious combination on its own so he had decided to follow. He watched, as the regular citizens moved to get out of the way of the bounty hunters. Too many times, innocent people were caught in the crossfire, and they did not want any part of whatever the hunters were up to. This far down, only the desperate, the hunters, and those being hunted dared these levels. And after the burning of the Jedi temple, even CorSec cops were finding their jobs difficult. Even worse, the troopers were interfering on what the local cops considered their turf. It had been bad before, but fights were breaking out all over the place. And if it wasn't fights, it was the troopers looking for force users. Even those who didn't even know they had it. They were dragged off, never to be heard from again. So what were some bounty hunters and a purge trooper doing down here?




TAG: @Mistress_Renata

----


Rihan Ulto
The Underground, Level 4277


After the attack on the Republic, and the Jedi were called enemies of the state, his entire existence had changed. He had worked hard to become a part of the Republic Guard unit. He had climbed the ranks and had moved on to become one of the top guards. He had finally been made a part of the Senate guards unit and finally been given the honor of becoming part of the Senate Guards unit.

When the war started, he started to notice changes being done within the Republic units. Certain members were changed or removed totally. People were assigned to different duties. But Rihan had managed to hold on to his duties.

Then the Jedi Temple fell. A group of Senators, who felt that the new 'Emperor' had far too much control, had written a petition, demanding that he give up his emergency powers. Suddenly, the Senate was dissolved, and the exodus began, as Senators began leaving. And without the Senate, there was no need for a Senate Guard. He had gotten orders that his unit would be turning into the new Empire Guard unit. And the blue was to be replaced. Within a month, the new colors would be the new Red Armor. But since there were no Senators left, what that new job would be had not been discussed.

So now, he was here. He needed to get away from the old Senate levels. They were crawling with Stormtroopers. He was tired of the stares. He still had some friends and contacts. He also knew that there were several Senators still trying to get off-world. He knew of several.

There was an old dive on this level. Place called 'The Musty Mydock.' Several of the old Senators liked to hang out there, taking a feel 'of the people. Wondered if anyone was still out there.



-----



Ke Sera
The Underground, Level 4277

Ke Sera had traveled this area of the sector before, and normally, he did not mind doing so. But ever since the fall of the Jedi temple, he had never been so conscious of having an armored car before until now. If anyone had ever told him of what had happened was going to happen, he would have called them a fool.


How they had all been fooled. With the Jedi now gone, and the Republic now turned into an Empire, Ke wanted nothing better than to be gone. But he had a duty to do. He, along with many other Senators had sighed a petition, asking the Emperor to give up his emergency powers. It had worked before, on other Republic rulers. But the Emperor let them know quickly that they were no longer required, needed, or wanted. In an instant, he had dissolved the Senate. Contacting their individual homes and planets had been nearly impossible under the massive collapse. Even keeping contact with the Senators still left on the planet was getting difficult to maintain. So he was heading for one of the old spots that he knew some of the Senators liked to go to. Hopefully, the locals were still friendly. It was run by an old Twi'lek. One of the few non-humans still working in the upper levels. It was also a great place to get info. And it would not be unusual to be seen here. His office had been given 30 days before it would be closed. His secretary had already left. The only requests he was getting were from people desperate to get off the planet. But unfortunately, even he could not get a way off-world. He could not even get a message off-world. And he wasn't sure, but he felt as if he was being followed. So he needed someplace to go and plan his next move.





TAG: @Sinrebirth



---


Sonny Starlighter
The Underground, Level 5000

The worse thing for a pilot was being unable to fly. And to be unable to fly in Coruscant had to be the worse. Especially now. The entire reason he was here was because of his last race. He fried his engines, and barely managed to land it. And he has been working hard, trying to get his hyperdrive working again. He HATED being on Coruscant again. And he had many reasons. So fate was laughing at him.

There was a time when he could have many tons of credits, with beings desperate to get off-world. And here he was, with a ship that could only deal with system travel. And he couldn't just go to anyone for the parts he needed, as the prices had gone parsecs beyond normal prices.

And he knew he had to be careful. Desperate people do stupid things. Sometimes deadly things. It was a dangerous time indeed. Coruscant Air traffic control was pressed to its limits. He had to grease some palms in order to have them 'forget' that his ship had landed there. At last for a while. And docking his ship wasn't cheap either.

He had been told, by an old Bothan by the name of Sky, whom he had worked with before, that if he were to check out this place, called the 'Polar Rim', he might be able to find something to help him with his money troubles. He had not decided if he was going to check it out or not yet.




TAG: @Sarge

 

IC: Ker Zardos
Resolved

It was simply, the worst of times. There was no other way to describe it, for in truth, that is what it was. The moment they had been warning others about was finally upon them. The yoke of Imperial tyranny threatened to choke them all into oblivion. They could not allow that to happen. Even if the Jade Circle got so small that it became only a dot, figuratively speaking, of course.

Ker Zardos listened to the Elder speak, and only allowed himself a deep inhale and exhale now and again. The situation was very grim - on all known fronts. After all was said and done, they could not prevent this day from manifesting. Thus, their only focus now was to survive the ‘Long Night’.

Force Willing.

There was so much anguish, so much discontent, anger, hate, suffering. If one did not take care, it could blind the senses, even break one’s compass.

At least there was one piece of good news in all that the Elder reported. Mazy was still operating, was still being protected. Good. She was like a much needed candle in the darkness of oppression. A healer surrounded by a sea of wounded.

There was a question, followed by a moment of silence.

“Would it be wise to visit her? To make sure she hasn’t been somehow compromised?”

Ker was concerned that the wrong people may have learned of Mazy. He wanted to be sure. Just in case.


Tag: @Ktala, @The Jedi in the Pumas

 

Tink
The Underworld, Level 1592

He was not going to make it to the meeting in time. But it was not like he had a choice. He had noticed a group of Hunters seemed to be rather intent on scouring the area, looking for something...anything really. They were looking to make a quick buck, so they were hassling the locals, trying to provoke people. Even a force sensitive would bring in a few creds. A few of the old Coruscant police glared at the Hunters.

The Hunters didn't mess with the Corsec guards, but it didn't stop them from annoying the locals. For a moment, once stopped and glared at him, before moving on, as one of his buddies, a dark green twi'lek male with bad teeth began to hassle 2 human males who were sitting outside of a building, just trying to enjoy a drink.

He could see the Corsec guards trying to decide if it was worth it to interfere or not. Tink could feel the tension building in the area. But whether it would lead to anything is another thought entirely. He could wait, or he would have to take a major detour in order to attempt the meeting.



TAG: @Mitth_Fisto


------------------------------

Ker Zardos, Jaa Kellos
The Underworld, Level 1592

The old man turned his head, as Ker asked his question. “Would it be wise to visit her? To make sure she hasn’t been somehow compromised?” He gave a slow nod.

"It might be of some help. Even though the Dark Sun is watching over her, even they are not willing to get into an entanglement with this new Empire. But I know that they are going to help move her. She is simply too valuable an asset to lose. To anyone." The old man coughed. "And I know that two of the children that your group rescued on your last mission are still with her. The twins, Darius and Marcus.." The old man shook his head. "Their parent had been killed when they were taken. So they stayed behind with her, to help Mazy with her work." He snorted softly. "But, if we can do anything to assist, it would be good. Doesn't matter how deeply the people might hate the Jedi. But they love her. And if anyone can change the minds of the people, it's her."

The old man took another deep puff on his pipe, as he stared at Ker Zardos and Jaa Kellos, who had been silent so far, as he appeared deep in thought.

"One team has opted to stay. They are leaving the city. But I do not know where. We decided that it was best that I do not know. But whatever you decide, you should do it quickly. "



TAG: @greyjedi125, @The Jedi in the Pumas

--------------

Rihan Ulto
They Musty Mynock, The Underground, Level 4277

Once he walked into the place in his civilian gear, it was both familiar and strange. Most of the same old faces, the die-hard drunks and regulars were still there. As he ordered a drink, he watched the crowd. It didnt take long to notice that even though the club felt like it normally did, when certain people did walk in, there was a palpable change in the atmosphere. Once that being left, the club would slowly revert back to its normal self.

An old male Twi'lek, whom Rihan knew as the owner, gave him a nod. He slid over a drink, then turned over to look towards an empty table near the wall, close to the corner of the room. He then quickly moved over to the other end of the bar, in order to deal with the next order of drinks.

As Rihan continued to watch the club, he heard the sounds of what sounded like a fight breaking out in the back of the bar. He recognized one of the voices as an addie who did death sticks, probably trying to sell his wares. Probably tried to hit up the wrong person to sell his wares.

So far, it didn't sound like it was getting to serious, .. yet.




---
Ke Sera
The Underground, Level 4277

Ke was making his way to an old club that he and a few Senators used to enjoy drinks from time to time. Not the worst of places. Definitely not a place to be seen in Senator gear. So he would dress in older clothing, like the other Senators liked to do, in friendlier times.

As he made his way toward the Musty Mynock, a noise made him freeze. There was a bothan, standing off to the side of the row of buildings, close to where the old bar was. He was standing in the shadows, back against the wall.

But that is not what made the noise. What made him freeze was the sound of a blaster being activated. His eyes slid over to the far left. A group of 3 stormtroopers were walking toward the direction of the bar. He couldn't tell if they were going in it, or past it to where the Bothan was hiding. But something had evidently put them on high alert. But so far, they did not seem to have noticed him.





TAG: @Sinrebirth


-------------------

Outstanding tags for @Sarge & @Mistress_Renata

 

Dannan Antilles
The Underground, Level 1557

Of course it was raining. That was the nature of the lower levels. Pollution, darkness, all things leading to near constant precipitation in one form or another. Even on those rare occasions when nothing was coming down from above, it was still damp. Natural sunlight never penetrated down here, and the artificial lighting installed long ago to mimic the sun was usually broken or non-functional.

He pulled the waterproof scarf up over his head and shoulders, to keep the moisture from dripping down his neck. No one on these levels used the rain repulsor field generators, so in order to blend in, he was going to have to stay dry some other way. At least he was still plainclothes. For now, anyway.

The last few weeks had been confusing, with things changing at a ridiculous pace. One moment he and his team were investigating illegal weapons sales to Separatist troops by the Black Sun criminal syndicate, and the next thing they knew they were recalled to Coruscant ostensibly to investigate a plot by the Jedi to overthrow the Senate and take power for themselves.

And within days they’d been ordered to stand down while their office underwent a ‘restructuring.’ A few of his colleagues had submitted their resignations. Many of them had been arrested under suspicion of ‘subversive activities,’ without those activities being called out. Instead of continuing their work, they were reassigned to work with the local, planetary forces on Coruscant, trying to tamp down unrest and root out anyone who wasn’t prepared to support the Empire wholeheartedly.

And hunt down whichever Jedi had managed to escape the massacre. Which was what those bounty hunters were probably trying to do now. Dan pursed his lips. Bounty hunters normally operated in the Mid-Rim and beyond. Local forces were supposed to track anyone who’d gone to ground in their own systems. Many of the new faces weren’t even actually part of the Guild, as far as he knew. A lot of wannabes, eager to make a name for themselves or make a fortune, losers who had failed at nearly everything else in life and who had no problem working outside the law as long as they got results. But then, that was the law now.

Dan paused outside an information kiosk, plugging in an innocent query about the hours of a shop while watching the two proceed along a walkway and on to a repulsor. He stayed above them, watching them go down a few levels, then crossed a skywalk and caught a droplift, moving down to their level. They didn’t seem to be trying to shake off a tail, and the Purgetroopers clomping along behind them did nothing for stealth.

The bystanders moved out of their way but made no pretense at trying to mind their own business. They watched with open interest. Dan had to wonder how it would go. The bounty hunters were probably tracking Jedi. If they caught any, they could get a hefty reward. However, with the Purgetroopers on their heels, odds were that the boys in armor would grab the Jedi, thank the helpful citizens for their assistance, and take off with their quarry, leaving the hunters out of pocket and saving the Empire some creds. Especially if these clowns weren’t affiliated with the Guild.

One was a Rodian but wasn’t close enough for Dan to identify. The young officer mentally ran down a list of places where they might get lucky; places where the Jedi had been seen or known to congregate. Or places where someone might try to go to find a way off world. An appealing thought, but he hadn’t tried it himself. He knew a bit about the criminal underworld on Coruscant, a few things that the Bright New Boys of the Empire didn’t. His new masters, keen to make a name for themselves.

He would keep these things to himself, for now. See where this ‘restructuring’ took him. For now, he simply moved on, following the Purgetroopers and making himself inconspicuous by pausing to gawp at shopfronts or to pretend to fasten his boots. From time to time, he pretended to pick his nose. A good way to get people to look away from you; do something disgusting but legal. He kept an eye on the droplifts as well. He wanted to be able to break off his pursuit if he had to.

He really hated this planet.

TAG: @Ktala, anyone

 

IC: Sonny Starlighter
The Underground, Level 5000



A flickering neon sign fitfully proclaimed the entrance to the Polar Rim. He saw nothing on the outside to indicate it was anything but yet another seedy dive of a bar. It was probably no different from hundreds of the cantinas he'd seen across the galaxy, and there were no reasons not to go in. No reason at all, except a faint flutter in his guts. Maybe he should heed his instincts and walk away.

Walk away to what? The only other place to go was back to his ship, but the Lubed Lightning was probably under surveillance by the hired muscle of loan sharks looking to beat some credits out of him. Credits he didn't have. Credits he had squandered.

He thought back to his last 'charter.' A young Duros family had hired him to get them off Coruscant to an orbital trans-shipping station, from which they hoped to book passage out of the Coruscant system, he assumed. He'd have been happy to take them all the way to the Duros homeworld himself, but that wasn't going to happen until he could get parts for his burned out hyperdrive. So he had accepted their offer of a handful of credits to get them offworld, knowing full well that what they paid him wasn't likely to pay off the fuel he'd burn along the way. He had landed them at the station in a dark cargo holding area, asking no questions, and waited while they dug through their pockets to scrounge up their last credits. Did they have anything left to barter their next passage? He had no idea. Their body language and expressions were rife with anxiety, desperation bordering on helplessness, fear of the dark future. Not that any of that was any of his business. No, he was just a hired pilot, doing the job he was paid for, and he had silently accepted the meagre handful of credit chips, then helped the mother out the hatch of the racing yacht. He took the baby from her arms for a moment so she'd have both hands free to climb down, and his own hands twitched almost involuntarily. When no one was watching, he had slipped their credits into the baby's blanket and tucked the cloth in to hide them.

He might have found some cargo or passengers for the return trip, but most likely that would mean dealing with people or things he'd rather not. And his gut had been telling him it was time to go, so he lit the engines and ghosted away from the station. A downbound container ship had been passing nearby, so he quietly glided in through a blind spot, latched on to the massive cargo hauler and hitched a ride back to the surface, avoiding at least one traffic control fee.

And now he was back where he'd started, still stuck on Coruscant with less fuel than yesterday, no money to speak of, no hyperdrive parts, and no prospects. Except whatever the old Bothan, Sky, had heard about in this so-called Polar Rim. For all he knew, this was a trap. But traps have to have bait, and maybe if he was lucky he could swipe the cheese and get away. He stood perfectly still for a moment, resisting the urge to pat the hold-out blaster in his shoulder holster and the vibro-knife sheathed in the back of his waist. He could sense them right where they were supposed to be; there was no need to show any watchers where his weapons were. With a resigned sigh, he walked through the entrance.


TAG: @Ktala

 

IC: Tink
The Underworld, Level 1592

He was not going to make it to the meeting in time. But it was not like he had a choice. He had noticed a group of Hunters seemed to be rather intent on scouring the area, looking for something...anything really. They were looking to make a quick buck, so they were hassling the locals, trying to provoke people. Even a force sensitive would bring in a few creds. A few of the old Coruscant police glared at the Hunters.

His suit rhythmically pulsed in its soft parts as he shuddered and stirred inside it in annoyance. The Hunters didn't mess with the Corsec guards, but it didn't stop them from annoying the locals. By making him late he also was annoyed. For a moment, one stopped and glared at him, before moving on, as one of his buddies, a dark green twi'lek male with bad teeth began to hassle 2 human males who were sitting outside of a building, just trying to enjoy a drink. With looks like that, 'Hunters' was really the kindest term Tink could think towards these beings. They were disgusting and if not for being dangerous Tink would pay them no mind and then deal with them on his way.

Unfortunately this was the Empire now. Letting an eyeball burst inside his helmet he negligently drank the fluids as he reformed a new eye to look at the display monitors there as others looked at them down below.

He could see the Corsec guards trying to decide if it was worth it to interfere or not. The tension was horrendous, whether it would lead to anything is another thought entirely. He could wait, or he would have to take a major detour in order to attempt the meeting. Letting out a frustrated gurgle he decided on the detour. Maybe if he used his rockets he could not loose too much time. Although he hated to waste fuel at a time like this. Maybe the lift two blocks back and try to go around that way?

Hmm. He really should of updated his level map for this meeting.


TAG: @Ktala

 

IC: Ker Zardos
Keep Hope Alive

Ker nodded sagely at the old man, before raising his hood to obscure his features, his steely gaze seeming to deepen.

“I understand.” he finally said.

Ker did not trust Dark Sun. It was simply to their benefit that they watch over Mazy. He did not put it past them to attempt to ‘profiteer’ access to the healer. That possibility and its implications caused him to frown, but Dark Sun had made no such move. At least not yet.

That the old man mentioned the twins by name, Marcus and Darius, likely meant that there was something special about them. Ker did not wish to speculate at the time, though a few possibilities did come to mind.

The main mission here would be the safe relocation of Mazy.

She was a key figure in keeping hope alive within the people, a bulwark against crushing despair brought on by an indifferent Imperial Machine. The old man was right. They could not afford to lose her - to anyone!

For this mission, Ker needed the latest intel on Dark Sun and their ability to achieve this move. For that to happen successfully, he would need to join their ranks -well, more like infiltrate. He would ponder about his options as he made his way to the healer.

Ker gave a curt nod to the old man as he began to turn away, before pausing to gaze at Jaa Kellos.

“Are you coming along?”

That would be all he would say to the silent man, before secretly departing the ‘Old Man’s’ lair.


Tag: @Ktala, @The Jedi in the Pumas

 

Sar Koon & Tink
The Underworld, Level 1592

The weeks had not been easy for Kato Sai. He was having a hard time avoiding the Hunters. Many of them seemed to be picking fights with non-human types, in hopes of flushing out a force sensitive. And there were few who were willing to step in between them and the aliens, even those who had been well-known types. Only those of high ranking were able to avoid it, usually by having many guards. And while that worked well on the hunters, they tried their best to avoid the Purge Troopers. Luckily, Kato Sai had managed to find a haven with a group of rare humans who lived in the lower levels. They were well respected, ran a kitchen, and would feed many of the poorer beings who would otherwise not eat. Others who could not afford to pay would barter, bringing in items the kitchen could use. The pair, named Ramos and Ka'tel, are experts in cooking foods that other alien races could eat as well.

Kato Sai has seen several Hunters and Purge troopers move thru the area. But so far, they had not bothered the kitchen. Of course, once beings left the confines of the kitchen, they were free game. But they still kept coming. And the rumors were rampant. Many were trying to find any way off the planet they could, even if it was to one of the other planets within the system.

Rumors of a possible protest were also brewing in the area. Talks of taking the fight to the upper levels was also mentioned.

He had many things to ponder, as he made his way to where the meeting was supposed to be. But he might be too late. But he could possibly find someone, while on his way there.


Sar Koon stood silently, as his eyes took in the area around him. He knew that there was a place they were to meet one last time. But on his way to the meeting spot, he had a feeling that he should change his route. Not sure what he felt, but the compulsion was so strong, that he found himself wondering if he should follow his instincts or wonder if perhaps his nerves were playing tricks on him. But so far, they had kept him alive.


He was on the correct level, but he still had a way to go, when he noticed something that drew his attention. One was a being he was sure that he had met before. He seemed to be observing something. Another group of beings. He knew them in an instant.

Hunters.

But then Sar Koon noticed something else. The being was just coming into view, but the armor was unmistakable. A Purge Trooper. What was he doing down here? at the moment, the Hunters had not noticed the being, but it seemed that the Trooper had noticed them, as he stopped, and watched the interaction. He did not seem to be taking any action at the moment. But the Purge Trooper seemed very intent on watching the Hunters...or something in the area. Meanwhile, the 2 humans that the hunters were harassing were beginning to get annoyed with the hunters, the Corsec guards, after seeing the Purge Trooper's arrival, decided that they would not engage, disappearing into one of the nearby businesses.

Tink, who was a bit closer to the disturbance would also notice a faint smell. It almost smelled as if something was burning, someplace nearby. He was also picking up a strange vibration he had never felt before. And it seemed to be getting closer.


Both Sar Koon and Tink had a good view of the activity around them. Whether they would stay to watch or attempt to move around the disturbance was up to them.




Tag: @Mitth_Fisto @Kato Sai

------



Dannan Antilles (Dan)
The Underground, Level 1557

Dannan Antilles followed the circus of Hunters followed by the Purge trooper. What was interesting was that the Hunters did not seem to have noticed the Purge Trooper at all. The trooper seemed to have some device in his hands and seemed to be scanning the area for something.

Suddenly, Sannan heard a sound that he knew instantly. From a higher level, and blaster rifle had come into play, and was shooting wildly at the Hunters. They dived into the surrounding structures, as they drew weapons, and returned fire. Dannan could not see exactly who was firing, but whoever it was, was big, and they were fast. The Shooter was not staying in one place, but moving around. The locals were diving for cover, not wanting to be caught in the crossfire.


Dannan did notice however that the Purge trooper seemed for the most part, to be ignoring the display of fireworks, and was intently watching his device...



TAG: @Mistress_Renata


---------------------------------------------

Ker Zardos, ‘Zard’ & Jaa Kellos
The Meeting Area, The Underworld, Level 1592

Jaa Kellos had not spoken at all, during the entire meeting. He had heard everything that had been spoken. But that was not what had his attention. He was acutely aware of what was happening in the room. But he was aware of other things.

Of a Purge Trooper following some hunters
Of a hidden ship..
Of a growing fire..
Of a pair of silver eyes...

He vaguely heard a voice asking him a question..

Meanwhile, Ker Zardos meanwhile had decided to visit the healer Mazy. He wanted to make sure that she was safely escorted to her new place. But there was something that Zard was also feeling. A growing sense of urgency. Not necessarily towards the healer, Mazy, but of something else. Something closer.

There were others! For the briefest of moments, he could feel them. But there was something else. Something that he could not put a finger on. And then the sensation disappeared once again. He could no longer feel them. And there were so many more than he had dared to hope for. Ker Zardos also noted the old man stopped puffing on his pipe, and had turned his head, 'looking' up, and then slowly moving his head across the area. He then spoke again. "Wait a moment. Then go. We shall not meet again in this place." He slowly stood up, giving a slow nod of his head.

"May the Flame light your path, wherever it takes you."



Tag: @greyjedi125 @The Jedi in the Pumas


----

Rihan Ulto
The Underground, The Musty Mynock, The Underground, Level 4277

The sounds of the fight picked up a bit louder, but still seemed under control. The bartender had not reached for his 'silencer' yet. But the death stick dealer was definitely on the losing end of the battle. Cheers and bets were being placed, as the sounds continued.

Others, not interested moved into another room, where some gambling was taking place. The music started, as they attempted to drown out the noise of the fighting. A yellow skin Twi'lek brought Rihan a drink, giving a slight smile. Surprised to see you here. Most of the regulars have hightailed it out of here, looking for the first hop they can catch. Or else they joined the new team. Too high classed to visit us, lowlives, now." She shrugged her shoulders. "You want company, or you looking for something?" she asked him.



Ke Sera
The Underground, Level 4277

He had almost made it into the Musty Mynock when the sound of a blaster being activated caught his attention. But at least the blasters were not pointing at him. Nor were they pointing at the Bothan. It didnt look like it. They were aiming their blaster down an alleyway, peering into the darkness.. As they turned their attention to the alleyway, he noted that the Bothan pulled something out of his clothing and held it in his hands...

A detonator!

Ke Sera was sure he had not moved an inch, but something made the Bothan look up in his general direction. For a brief second, Ke Sera could have sworn they had locked eyes, but then the Bothan turned and looked back towards the troopers. Ke Sera could tell the being was about to lob the device in the direction of the Stormtroopers.

Whatever his actions, he knew that the blast would certainly draw attention at the very least.




TAG: @Sinrebirth

---


Sonny Starlighter
The Underground, Level 5000, the Polar Rim

Sonny Starlighter looked at the signage outside of the place and was not impressed. With a sigh he stepped into the place...

...and came to a stop.


The place had seen better days, but it was not a dive bar by any stretch of the imagination. He could almost call this place ' respectful'. There were several holovids hanging off the walls, and they seemed to be showing various races, both old and current that had happened around the galaxy. Even in this chaos, the races still continued. Credits were still being made. Music was playing in the background, and a twi'lek singer was performing on a small stage.

As he took a step, he was met by a silver droid. "Bar, table, or booth sir?" the doid asked him, as it waited for a response. A few folks turned to look at him, but otherwise turned back to their conversations and drinks.





TAG: @Sarge

 

IC: Sonny Starlighter
Polar Rim, Cor5000

He glanced around, casually but appreciatively. There wasn't much point to pretending he'd ever been here before; if these patrons were regulars they already knew he wasn't one of them. Were they racers themselves? Gamblers? Team owners? He'd been around the racing world long enough to know it was often impossible to tell who did what just by looking at them.

"Bar, table, or booth, sir?" asked a droid. The last thing he wanted was to look like one of those paranoiacs who always insist on sitting in a corner with their backs to the wall in case an imaginary foe tried to sneak up behind them, so he pointed to a table in front of the stage.

"Let me take that one, I like Twi'lek singing. Does she take requests?" He nodded casually at the people looking his way as they walked to the table. Taking a seat, he spoke again to the droid. "I know a guy named Sky, a Bothan, who recommended this place to me. Has he been in today?"


TAG: @Ktala

 

Dannan Antilles
Underground, Level 1557

Dan pressed into an alcove, and peered upward, trying to see where the blasts were coming from. He stayed low to the ground, sidling so he could get a clearer look while trying to keep his quarry in his sight.

The Purgetrooper seemed unaffected, although he should. Even his armor couldn’t hold off a blast like this. Dan couldn’t see what the device was. Damn it, I’m gonna have to get closer. He didn’t want to do that. Getting closer would draw attention to him, and it would reduce his field of vision.

He glanced around quickly, trying to spot any security cams around. There were three, but it was anyone’s guess if they actually worked. He backtracked to the drop lift, went down two levels, then crossed the pedestrian bridge so he was on the same side of the concourse and took a repulsorlift up, bringing him to the same level as the Hunters and the troopers. They were close now, closer than he cared to be. He stayed in cover, with his hands above his head, pretending to try to protect himself while taking a hard look in the direction of the shots. Who was shooting?

TAG: @Ktala

 

IC: Tink
The Underworld, Level 1592

Hunters. Tink tried to put them out of his mind as he had turned away. Turning only to see a Purge Trooper arrive, and the law on the fence decided today was not the day to be seen actually doing their jobs. Why risk it with that thing around.

Pausing though he noted a faint smell. Not to say that there weren't many smells always on display in the lower levels. It almost smelled as if something was burning, someplace nearby. He was also picking up a strange vibration he had never felt before. And it seemed to be getting closer. Not being fond of having his jellies shaken without his own understanding about the situation he quickened his step

Continuing to try to move around the disturbance was was all he could do. Avoid and prioritize his own life for the hope of future lives.

Tag: @Ktala , @Kato Sai

 

OOC: Hello folks. Here is my Update. Any characters who have not spoken or responded after this post, will be moved out of the action so not to hold anyone else up.



Ker Zardos, ‘Zard’ & Jaa Kellos
The Meeting Area, The Underworld, Level 1592

Ker Zardos had made the decision to visit the healer Mazy, and make sure that she was moved and taken care of. As he declared his decision to the old man had told them to wait a moment before they left the building. Was there some unperceived danger that he sensed? Try as they might, the pair did not sense anything. Then again, Jaa Kellos had been strangely silent. He had only nodded his head at Zard's statement. As Zard stood silent, he could suddenly 'hear' the sound of many footsteps running past their meeting place, and some of the locals shouting as they passed by, not noticing the area the others were in. A large low rumbling noise was now heard in the area. It was not as so much heard but felt. And a strange smell began to waft thru the dirty air. In the distance, there were the sounds of blaster fire. For the moment, it did not seem to be getting any closer to the group.

The old man suddenly spoke then. "There are some others of the ring nearby, but there is interference beyond. Something has caused the locals to grow agitated. And the tensions are rising..." He gently blew out a bit of smoke, as even now Ker Zardos and Jaa Kellos began to fill a growing anger within the immediate area, even if they could not sense its cause. But at the moment, it was not directed towards them, but at another unseen enemy.




Tag: @greyjedi125 @The Jedi in the Pumas


---

Sar Koon & Tink
The Underworld, Level 1592


Tink, as he began to move to avoid the activity that was increasing in the area, he felt the rumbling get louder. His many sense organs began to pick up the smell of something on fire. Smelt like some type of trash dump, except for the fact it was mixed with the smell of burning flesh of some sort.

Then both Tink and Sar Koon to feel an intense rising of anger, as one of the humans had decided that he had enough. He swung at the green twi'lek hunter, as he roared out in frustration at the being while trying to strike at him with a bottle. The two Corsec guards looked ready to step in on the human's behalf, but when the Purge Troop suddenly looked as if he had gotten attentive, they quickly turned and left the area as quickly as possible.

From his vantage point, Sar Koon could see that the Purge Trooper seemed to be working some sort of device, as he scanned the area. And from the area behind the Purge Trooper, a large shadow began to slowly come into being, as the rumble was felt more. Whatever it was, it was large enough to block out the light on the level that they were standing on. Both Tink and Sar Koon felt something ominous. The fight between the Humans and the Hunters was going into full swing now, and they were to busy to see what was slowly coming up upon them both...





Tag: @Mitth_Fisto , @Kato Sai

------



Dannan Antilles (Dan)
The Underground, Level 1557

In another part of the Underground, a similar event was being played out, as Dannan watched a large group of Hunters being followed by a Purge Trooper, that they had not yet noticed. He also was cradling a device in his hands and was watching his device, as the Hunters were taking fire from the hidden sniper. The Trooper made no attempt to aid in any way but continued to monitor his device.

Voices from the various hunters as they yelled, trying to coordinate their attacks. Two, a human and a hybrid of some sort, were killed by the blaster shots, one going over a railing, while the other dropped where he had stood. Cursing could behind the screams as what civilians were left were either struck or ran into any open doorway to get out of the crossfire. Whoever seemed to be shooting at the hunters seemed to be fast, moving position constantly. Or perhaps it was a group of snipers, but whatever it was, they seemed to know what they were doing, as they were managing to keep the hunters pinned down.

Dannan decided a closer look. He quickly looked for cany security cams around. Of course, in this part of city, whether they were working or not, was anyone's guess. Dannan moved, and using the lifts, and backtracked himself, he moved around, until he was on the same level as the Hunters and the Trooper. As he covered his head, be began to stare in the direction of where the shots were coming from. He could not see anyone, but he could hear a soft whirring sound, seconds before the shots were fired. A sound, like the scurrying of small feet also seemed to be nearby as well. This area was near one of the large venting shafts that were built throughout the Underground, which were used sometimes by ships and the like, to move between the different levels.

Dannan was also feeling a slight rumbling noise. And in the direction of the trooper, there seemed to be something large, slowing making its way toward them. If it was a ship, it was not like any ship Dannan had ever seen before.





TAG: @Mistress_Renata

-----

Rihan Ulto
The Underground, The Musty Mynock, The Underground, Level 4277

"You want company, or you looking for something?" the yellow-skinned Tei'lek had asked Rihan Ulto. He replied, "Company would be nice," Rihan admitted, "but I'm really trying to get in touch with Ke."

As she paused to think of the name, a bottle came flying out from the back room. She caught it nimbly, and with a flick of the wrist, gently sat it on the table. She gave a look and then gave another shrug. "Just another day in paradise," she added with a smirk as she looked back at Rihan. "Oh, you mean the fancy guy who sometimes came in here with you? Haven't seen him today. But from what I hear, the Senate buildings have become pretty much a ghost town. So either he has found himself a way off-world or he might show up here soon enough. I can't imagine there is much work for him to do nowadays."

There was a large crash in the back, and with a nod from the bartender, a rather imposing-looking being sporting 4 arms was headed for the back. Zana gave a soft laugh and then looked back at Rihan. "But, if I see him come in, I'll steer him your way..."


--


Ke Sera
The Underground, Level 4277

The stormtroopers were on alert, but Ke Sera could not see the cause. However, he did see the stormtroopers activate their blasters as they peered down an alleyway. The Bothan hiding cradled a detonator, preparing to lob it towards the stormtroopers when he decided that he had to act...

Which is when he decided to call out, "Don't" and dove at the Bothan.

The Bothan nearly squeaked and almost dropped the detonator as this human suddenly lunged out toward him. Startled, he tripped backward and rolled on his back, bringing up his feet in case he needed to throw this insane human off of him.

From what Ke Sera could see, the Bothan looked rather young. Too young. While he didn't understands all of what the Bothan was saying under his breath, the words 'filthy human' and 'murders' did mutter through as the being kept a tight grip on the detonator.

Meanwhile, the Stormtroopers, who had started moving down the alleyway, heard some noise and were turning around and heading back out to the main street, blasters at the ready.



TAG: @Sinrebirth


-----
Jas Mirana
The Underground, Level 4277

Jas Mirana was probably wishing she was anyplace but Coruscant at the moment. Being a human, it gave her some safety, but between the swarms of hunters and now these new Purge Troopers, as if Stormtroopers weren't bad enough. But Coruscant was being turned inside off, and if you didn't have enough credits to buy someone, you were pretty much in a bad way. All civilian transport had been stopped, because they were looking for escaping Jedi, and had no idea when they would be allowed to restart again. The only thing moving was the large supply ships, they kept bringing in the needed supplies the Coruscant needed, and they were swept by security forces, both coming and going. Private ships could still come and go as well, but anything that had hyperdrive was well-searched. So ships were allowed to move about those that moved across the planet and stayed within the system. But anything else, until to 'Empire' got finished with whatever it was they were doing, was anybody's guess.

So Jas was huddled in a small shop, as a fine mist drifted through the area.




TAG: @T4M1-7


---

Sonny Starlighter
The Underground, Level 5000, The Polar Rim


After looking around Sonny Starlighter pointed toward a table in front of the stage. "Let me take that one, I like Twi'lek singing. Does she take requests?" He nodded casually at the people looking his way as they walked to the table. As the droid led the way, he responded. "Oh yes sir, our singer is very accomplished, and knows quite a few songs, in many languages. Would you like to request anything special?" the droid asked him as he gestured towards the chair, and stood waiting for a response.

Taking a seat, Sonny spoke again to the droid. "I know a guy named Sky, a Bothan, who recommended this place to me. Has he been in today?"

The droid gave Sonny a very human-looking tilt of the head, his eye reflectors giving him the once-over. He then responded. "No sir, Sky has not come in yet. He usually doesn't show up here for another hour or so. He has ... other businesses that he attends to before coming here. Would you like for me to let him that you wish to speak with him, once he arrives?" The droid stood up straight. "And would you care for anything to drink Sir?"





TAG: @Sarge

----
OOC: Thank you all for your patience.
I will hopefully be able to pick up the pace after this

 

*** Character sheet approved by @Ktala ***

Name: Jas Mirana
Sex: Female
Species: Human
Age: 27
Rank: Junior Intelligence Officer
Weapons: disguised collapsible stun baton
Physical description or Image:

Languages: Basic, Huttese, Mon Cal, Rodian, Duros

Main specialty: Infiltration (persuasive)
Sub-specialties: Technical (hacking, disable device, encryption), self-defense (close combat) using a stun baton that retracts and is disguised as a normal data cylinder.

Bio: Jas grew up on Alderaan and came to Coruscant to work at the heart of the Galactic Republic. Inspired by great political figures such as Bail Organa, and with a strong belief in democracy and freedom, she entered CorSec first of all as a computer technician. Intelligent and versatile, and with a flair for languages and communications, she rose through the ranks and by the time the Confederacy had declared war on the Republic, she had been recruited into CorSec’s intelligence community as a signal’s intelligence officer, trying to intercept and decode hostile infiltration of the Republic’s security.

Her insights proved valuable, and she was also tasked with helping on follow-up field missions, even confronting enemy agents in person to try and tease out information.

Somehow, she became a mixture of signals officer and a field agent.

But during the war, Jas became increasingly concerned about the actions of the Republic. She was at the heart of the intelligence community, and so was able to watch decisions being made and orders being transmitted to far-flung systems: Orders which did not seem to coincide with the Republic’s mission of maintaining representation, democracy, and freedom.

It was about this time that she was recruited by the Jade Circle.

Jas believed in the Jedi, and saw from within how their purpose was being divorced from that of the Republic, and how both organisations again were being side-tracked from their fundamental nature by an insidious, slow, almost undetectable shift toward authoritarianism.

Using her technical and interpersonal skills, she fed information to the Jade Circle, and hoped that a brighter day would come, when the war finished.

Then Order 66 came. The Emperor declared his intent. Jas knew she was working for the wrong side.

Jas fled her post before the storm troopers came for her, and finds herself on the wanted lists. She has some resources still intact from her field operations, and she has her skills. She needs to link up with the remaining Jade Circle Jedi and to get away from Coruscant.

Her future path, what she intends to do next, is as yet unknown...

 

*** Intro post approved/edited by @Ktala ***

IC: Jas Mirana
Corsucant, Ludo's café, Underworld, 4277



There is always that moment; when you first suspect, but then you know.

It stretches into an eternity, like the stars extending into a swirling tunnel of light when one enters hyperspace. Then, suddenly, the line between patience and decisiveness snaps back into a fraction of a second, and the consequences of inaction become deadly. Recognising the moment was a priceless skill for any intelligence operative.

Jas suspected something was wrong. Koni, the impound-yard officer, was late. He was always late. But not for more than five minutes. Jas shifted uncomfortably on the cuboid stool and glanced around the chic underlev café. It had become quietly deserted. The mirrors on the fashionable grey walls seemed to watch her. She looked to the service hatch and the Duros owner avoided her stare.

That was when Jas knew.

But she did not want to know. Just one more minute, begged her subconscious. He is probably held up by all the new checkpoints. You really need Koni if your plan is going to work.

Maybe she would have listened, not long ago, been more patient.

Not now. Not with everything that had happened on Coruscant in the last twelve weeks.

Jas stood up and surveyed her surroundings. It was misty outside - condensation from the highlev rain cascading down into hot sectors - so she could not see anyone approaching from the wall-windows to the front. Her instinct yelled danger. Now that she knew, it was not hard to trust her instinct.

She dashed for the back door. She heard the main entrance open with a swoosh behind her and a voice yelled. “Hey, you! Stop!”

Jas did not stop. She slid through the rear door, found herself in a kitchen, and sprinted for another exit beyond the noodle pans. She slammed the release, ignoring the “This door is alarmed” sign and skidded out into a dark alley.

Blinding pain erupted in her ribs.

As soon as Jas had stepped outside, someone waiting for her had rammed a shock-baton into her flank. She collapsed with a groan onto the dirty floor. Strong hands took her arms, lifted her, and pinned her face-first against a wall.

She was searched thoroughly, still trying to regain her vision after the debilitating shock.

“Now, where do you think you are you going, Miss Mirana?” said a contemptuous voice.

The man was behind her so she could not see him. She glanced to one side then the other and saw the brutes that gripped her arms were not in any kind of uniform. But she knew who they were. Hunters.

The voice had an unmistakable sneer, but was too rough to be an Imperial officer. He was trying to fake the accent. She figured he was a hunter, too. A smart one, perhaps, but not ISB.

Rough hands continued their search about her person.

Jas clenched her teeth. “What is the meaning of this? I am an Imperial Intelligence Agent.”

“You were a Republic Signals Operator,” countered the voice. “And you have made some very interesting withdrawals recently.”

Jas closed her eyes and cursed her luck. The withdrawals. That is what had put them onto her. She knew it was a risk – especially that transfer to a burner chip from the Nova 17 bank account. I should have left a hundred in there instead of closing the account. But she had been desperate for every last credit.

The whole plan had been desperate, but simple. Empty the slush accounts, bribe the impound officer for access to anything with hyperdrive capability, then…

Then, Jas was hazy on the details. Somehow she would have to connect with the Jade Circle again. She thought she could find a contact in one of the usual places. She would also try to pull together any of the senators that needed to get offworld. Senator Ke Sara was high on her list. Though she had never met him before, he had signed the petition.

Oh, yes, and she needed to find a pilot; a pilot skilful and crazy enough to try and blast them through the orbital blockade.

Those pieces will fall into place, she had told herself. I am resourceful enough, she had told herself. They will not notice or track down the withdrawals until you are long gone, she had told herself.

The hands found the code cylinder under her skirt and handed it to the man with the voice.

“And what might be on this, Miss Mirana?” he said with a note of triumph.

“Keycodes, for my apartment and speeder, and a shopping list,” she said back through gritted teeth, trying to project outraged innocence. “I repeat; I am an Imperial Intelligence official and you had better have a good explanation for this…”

A bleep indicated some device was being used behind her back. “I read a power-cell but no data,” said a second voice, distorted through a helmet voxlink.

“Encrypted, eh?” the voice sneered into Jas’ ear.

“That is the point of code cylinders…” she said, trying to keep calm despite the strong arms holding her against the wall.

“We’ll see about that,” said the voice. “We take her in, get the cash,” he told his cronies and Jas was dragged away from the wall.

She was turned round forcibly and got her first look at him. Definitely a hunter. Younger than the voice had suggested, but clad in lowlev garb and mismatched armour. A belt bulging with weapons. He held the shock truncheon in his fist, menacingly. He was an amateur, she decided. A mercenary. Perhaps she could use that?

“Wait,” said Jas. “The cylinder, it’s got something on it. You’ll want it.”

“Finally, we make progress,” sneered the man. “Tell it to the Imperials.”

“No!” said Jas, struggling against the strong hands. “I’ll give it to you – worth much more than handing it over to their techs to decrypt and get all the accolades, right?”

“You are not in a position to bargain, Miss Mirana.”

“Well, wait until you see how much this is worth… you might change your mind,” said Jas, coolly.

He hesitated, and Jas knew she had him. He said, “How do you open the contents?”

“There are no contents!” barked the electronic voice of the helmeted man. “It is some sort of dummy…”

“Yes, there are,” said Jas. “It just got this knock while I was running and now it is hard to scan. I need to bang it a certain way. I can show you…”

The mercenary turned to the helmeted crony beside him – who was holding a scanning device and her code cylinder. He nodded and the helmeted being reluctantly handed it to Jas. She shook off the hands holding her shoulders and arms, which were released with another nod from the leader.

Jas took hold of the code cylinder, slowly, her hands shown to the mercenaries.

“I just need to tap it, just… like… this.”

Suddenly Jas became a blur of movement. The twist of the base released the mechanism inside the disguised cylinder and a thin stun baton as long as her forearm snapped out.

In one motion she had whipped the weapon left and right, catching both of the flanking cronies in the face and sending them howling to the gritty floor. At the same time, she kicked out and crunched the leader between the legs. He collapsed with a groan.

The one in armour dropped his scanner and reached for a blaster at his flank. Jas moved quicker, thrusting an arm out to push away the blaster barrel. The shot ricocheted down the alleyway. Then she rammed the baton into the gap between chest armour plate and helmet and he went down.

Now Jas was surrounded by four adversaries, all on the ground, groaning.

She turned and ran.

Her heart thundered in her chest. If she was not on their scanner before, the Imperials must surely now know that she was working against them. She was a fugitive. She had to find her old friends from the Jade Circle.

She had to help get them off the planet. She had to help the Jedi survive somehow. It was the only way to keep hope alive in the falling darkness of despair.

Jas headed for the Musty Mynock...

@Sarge @greyjedi125 @The Jedi in the Pumas @Sinrebirth @Mistress_Renata @Kato Sai @Mitth_Fisto

 

IC: Sonny Starlighter
An Hour to Kill in the Polar Rim

"Something to drink would be great," Sonny told the serving droid. "I'm parched, so bring me a glass of water and a wine list to browse." Being almost down to his last handful of small change, he'd have to be stingy as all get out and nurse his drinks for all they were worth if he stuck around for a whole hour. "And tell Sky I'm here if you get a chance."

The singer finished the generic popular song she'd been singing. She had a lovely voice in Sonny's opinion, but she didn't seem particularly enthused about the song. He wondered what she'd rather be singing. As soon as the faint patter of polite applause ended, he called up to her, "You know Mon Pays, right?"

She looked surprised and pleased at the request. Mon Pays was a much beloved Twi'lek song about longing for their homeworld. She stood up straighter, eyes glowing, looking positively regal as she launched into the song with grace and passion, and even an underlying layer of patriotism. Moved by her performance, Sonny didn't begrudge the few credits he dropped into her tip jar.



TAG: @Ktala

OOC: Lyrics and translation:Mon Pays – c’est l’Hiver ! “Québécitude” in song | Zócalo Poets (zocalopoets.com)

 

Dannan Antilles
Clueless as ever, 1557

Dannan frowned, trying to see the shooter. He glanced at the fallen hunter. “Kriff this,” he muttered. He pulled his comm from his pocket, keying in his location and spoke in a low voice. “Shots fired, two civilians down, one went over the barrier. Officer requests assistance.” He hesitated, looking up at the strange craft. It was really too big to be in this corridor. “Request ID of vessels in the area, unidentified craft inbound.” Whatever it was, it was getting closer, and it stank.

And now he moved towards the fallen Hunter, bending over for a look while looking up to see where the shots were coming from. She was dead all right. He rummaged through the woman’s pockets, looking for an identification chit, and took at hard look at the Purge Trooper, who was about 3 meters away. “Hey, buddy, ain’t you supposed to be keepin’ the peace?” he said, trying to hold on to his undercover status a little while longer. Dannan cast a hard look at the device, but he couldn’t figure out what it was.

TAG: @Ktala

 

Tink
The Underworld, Level 1592

Tink had just begun getting out of there, his body pulling on itself as well as engaging the suits support skeleton structure when he suddenly felt the vibrations. Sound was always bad when you could feel it. From the taste vents he began to pick up the smell of something on fire. Smelt like some type of discarded treasure dump, except for the fact it was mixed with the smell of burning flesh of some sort. Did someone light a dumpster fire and not check for a homeless person again?

That notion was quickly discarded as Tink felt an intense rising of anger, as one of the humans had decided that he had enough. He swung at the green twi'lek hunter, as he roared out in frustration at the being while trying to strike at him with a bottle. The two Corsec guards looked ready to step in on the human's behalf, but when the Purge Troop suddenly looked as if he had gotten attentive, they quickly turned and left the area as quickly as possible.

Tink felt something ominous. The fight between the Humans and the Hunters was going into full swing now, and they were to busy to see what was slowly coming up upon them both...Tink did he best to hurry away. "Not my monkey, not my circus." he quietly gurgled to himself. He knew the orders to not draw attention, and his jellies were fine with that. This felt too off.

Tag: @Ktala , @Kato Sai

 

A splinter in the wind


Ker Zardos, ‘Zard’ & Jaa Kellos
The Meeting Area, The Underworld, Level 1592

The old man suddenly 'looked' up, as if he was hearing something. He then took another long purr of the pipe, before gingerly sitting it down. He looked towards Ker Zardos, and Jaa Kellos.

"It is time for you to go. The disturbance grows close. You must now decide your fate, and move in whatever directions the Force gives to you. We shall not meet again until we are one within the Force. I wish you good hunting."

The old man slowly walked over and grabbed what looked like a cane.

"Leave. Now!" he intoned them, as he turned, facing away from the pair




TAG: @greyjedi125, @The Jedi in the Pumas


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Sar Koon & Tink
The Underworld, Level 1592

Tink felt the rising tension and the growing rumbling that was felt more than heard, and quickly decided that he would get out of the area quickly, changing his suit to give him a different structure, so that he could quickly get out of the area. The humans at this point were fully involved with the hunters, while the Purge trooper moved to a certain area, and then stopped. Whatever he was holding in his hands seemed to have gotten his attentions. As both Tink and Sar Koon could feel the rumbling in the air, the already dark area grew even darker as it looked as if a large shadow was blocking out what available light was in the area.

The Humans and the fighers at first paid no attention to what was going on around them, as they were fully involved with the fight. It was not into a shout another direction got their attention. A party of the area behind them was starting to glow red, while now a few other beings, began to come into view. And they were running. Running as fast as they could, as the rumbling was now causing the buildings in the area to shake. Doors quickly started closing up. The running mob was begining to grow and heading towards and past the group that had been fighting.

Fear and anger were now the most powerful of emotions now being felt in the area, as the sound and smells grew louder. Another sound like a low pitched whine could now be heard. But what Sar Koon would notie was that the Purge trooper didnt take his eyes off the device, sweeping it about, as he scanned the area.


Tag: @Mitth_Fisto , @Kato Sai



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Dannan Antilles
The Underground, Level 1557

Dannan was watching as the fight rang out between the Hunters and their unknown attackers were battling it out. They were fast, who..or whatever they were, and at the moment had the upper hands on the Hunters. The group of Purge Troopers curiously enough had not decided to act on the behalf of the Hunters but were busy scanning the area, while seeming to be looking for something.

Whatever weapons the assailants were using were unusual, because he could not quite place the soft whirling sounds he heard before every shot. By this time, he had moved in to inspect the fallen Hunters, and going thru their pockets for an clues or id. As Dannan tried to call out, he heard a lost of static on his comm, and he didnt receive a reply. He found an id chip for a Cleo Desper. And for a Lana Chambers. Both from the design, looking like at least one of them had belonged to one of the local Bounty Hunters Guild. Also found a cred chip, and 2 small gems. For a Hunter, didnt seem to be too heavily armed. Mostly just one large blaster, and a smaller, hold out blaster. Strange.

When he called out to the Purge Officer, the being slowly turned his head and body to look at him. And for a brief moment, Dannan felt as if someone had placed a heavy weight on his chest, while the Trooper just seemed to stare at him from his dark helmet.

A few moments later, the weight on his chest suddenly vanished, as he could see that a small blue light had lit up on the device the Purge Trooper was holding. The Trooper began moving as the large shadow seemed to be looming closer. And the smell was now something Dannan recognized.

Death.

The smell of rotting flesh hit his nose, and a warm 'breath' of heat passed over him. It was so strong that even the blaster shots had suddenly stopped as the lights blinked out of existence overhead, and the dark shape blotted out the sky.


TAG: @Mistress_Renata
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Sonny Starlighter
The Underground, Level 5000, The Polar Rim

"Yes sir. Very good sir." the droid intoned, while he moved to fulfill the request Sonny had given him. He then paid attention to the singer appreciating the song she had just finished. As soon as she was finsihed, he leaned forward, and asked, "You know Mon Pays, right?"

This time, the singer put her all into the song, flashing a brilliant smile at Sonny while she gave her performance. While the singer enjoyed performing, it was nice when someone gave her a song that she actually like to perform. after she finished her song, she signaled, and the band announced a 5-minute break, and while some synthesized music was being played, the volume of chatter in the bar grew.

She then walked over towards Sonny's table. "Thank you for your request. Not many people know the true significance of that song," she stated with a nod of her head, her lekku moving slowly around her shoulders. She then pointed to the table, and with a swift move, gracefully took a seat.

"I know the locals around here. You're not once. So, are you looking for a hop, or are you like the rest of these aces, trying to find a load?" she asked him.




TAG: @Sarge

-----

Jas Mirana
Corsucant, Underworld, 4277


Jas Mirana was on the run. Her ribs burned from the earlier attack, as she paused, leaning against a wall. She was heading for the Musty Mynock. She knew back in the day, some of the old senators used to hand out there. Maybe there was a few left she could get a ridge from. If she was really lucky, maybe she could find a contact for the Order there. Or the other group. She just knew that she had to get off the planet, or she was dead. Wouldnt take long before her face was plastered all over the place, like the Jedi. But right now, the biggest catch was Jedi. But if she ran into the others that had almost caught her, she was sure they wouldn't even wait to turn her in. But in these times, folks were desperate enough, that if the bounty was high enough, anyone might be willing.

So she headed for the Musty Mynock, hoping she could run into someone who could point her in the right direction, of getting out of the sector, if not the planet.

She could see a contingent of stormtroopers, not looking in her direction, but some looking down an alleyway, and another group looking down another side street. With a gesture, the group split up and went down both paths, blasters out, like they were looking for something. But whatever it was, it wasn't in her direction.



---

Rihan Ulto
The Underground, The Musty Mynock, The Underground, Level 4277

"Is the barkeep alright?" Rihan asked Zana. Zana simply laughed. "Oh yeah. He's fine. He just sent Banter to the back, to deal with the drunks before they tear up the place. You know supplies are not easy to get at the moment. Don't want ticked-off patrons tearing down the place." Zana shook her head. "People come in here, to try and forget whats going on out there. But them buckets come in, and try to pick us dry, not paying and telling us we should just be happy that we got a job here still." While Zana's face stayed pleasant, her knuckles were turning white from the way she was crushig the bottle she was holding.

She slowly released the bottle and offered an apologetic grin. "Sorry. With all the craziness out there, this is about the only sane place left." she gave a sigh.

There were the sounds of moaning as Banter walked back into the main room, each pair of arms carrying a 'patron', who looked worse for wear, one sporting a black eye, while the other was missing some teeth.

He grunted something to the tune of 'go sleep it off!' before tossing the pair out the doors of the bar.


---


Ke Sera
The Underground, Level 4277

There was a soft squeel of surprise when Ke managed to knock the feet out from under the young Bothan, as Ke held on to the detonator.

The young Bothan hissed, as he bared his teeth, still angry, but eyeing Ke carefully, as he kept an eye on the detonator. "They.....murdered.....father now. Not move fast enough. They need to die!" the Bothan hissed. "Why do you care anyway?" he growled at Ke, but so far didnt try to make a grab for the detonator.

The Bothan climbed up on his hands and knees, as he continued to watch Ke warily. This old man was gasping on his back. He could probably take him. But the stormtroopers might still be out there, and the noise would give him away.

The Bothan snorted hard. "I just get more. Not worth it to fight you."




TAG: @Sinrebirth, @T4M1-7


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OOC:
Please let me know if I missed anyone.