Logged Sept. 12, 2001
Logged by Ashton
Titled:  Unexpected Visitor
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Characters: 
Ashton 
Moira 
Tai Jinn 
Merina 
Rruka 
Ba'sha 
Elthar
Phanton 
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Ashton
   A powerfully built man whose eyes and smile coincide with his young and 
athletic-looking physique. Averaging these two factors, a guess that the human 
male is somewhere in his early twenties is close to accurate. His light brown, 
almost sandy-brown hair is just longer than collar-length with a slight wave at 
the bottom as if it's starting to curl. He has light hazel eyes, more green than 
brown, but this changes with his mood or outlook. He is rather average in 
height; no more than five foot ten inches tall.
   Ashton is wearing a light blue tunic over a soft white, high-collared 
shirt. The loose sleeve tunic is belted at the waist with a black utility belt. 
His black pants are tucked into a pair of knee-high boots, made of a soft black 
nerf leather. Clipped to his utility belt is a smooth, gun-metal blue cylinder.

Moira
    This human female is about 5 foot 5 inches in height. She is probably in 
her early twenties, though something about her makes her look younger. Perhaps 
it's the expression in her blue-green eyes. Not quite innocence, but something 
akin to it. Moira has a kind face, heart shaped with a gently sloping nose. 
She's pale of complexion, not exactly sickly, but not tan. One might get the 
impression that tanning is impossible for her- too much sun would surely cause 
her skin to burn. Her hair is ash blonde and board straight, pulled back in a 
ponytail to keep it out of her way. Her face bears an open and friendly look, 
completely free of any artifice or insincerity. An Ossus native, the girl's 
voice bears the slightest accent, the only remainder of home she carries with 
her. The only other unchanging feature of that girl that is Moira, is a ring 
that she has recently added to her right ring finger. The non-wedding band hand. 
It's a pair of wires, black and white. But they seem to be molded of the same 
material- only upon very close observation do they seem separate. 
   Moira is dressed in a beige-brown shift that extends to mid-thigh, which 
is cinched at the waist by Moi's belt. A clip is present on the belt, though at 
this time nothing hangs from it. Under the shift is a pair of pants, not ragged 
and baggy like she tends to favor, but actually tailored to fit. They are dark 
brown in color, and have four pockets- two large They are dark brown in color, 
and have four pockets- two large ones at the waist and two discreet ones at the 
knee.

Ba'sha
   A tall man of 6'3 and bulky frame greets your eyes, body firm and tight, 
his skin (the little bit visible) is all white, the deep white of snow or paper 
and completely and totally without flaw. Black gloves cover his hands and wrists 
where not covered by the sleeve. His eyes are hard, aged beyond their years by a 
struggle to survive, and by an inner fire that seems to consume every part of 
him, what fuels this inner fire...who can say? His clothes consist of a tight 
and form-fitting black shirt, drawing itself over the contours of his upper body 
and seeming to accentuate every muscle. The pants are a fitting but not tight 
black material, seemingly durable and again drawing attention to the musculature 
that is there, as if framing his body for others to admire at. A cape falls 
gently back over his shoulders as he stands tall, shoulders wide across and his 
bearing that of a born leader, the cape billows with his movements as if of his 
own accord, and when he settles down it wraps around his backside lovingly like 
another skin. A huge two-handed sword, like the great broadswords of hold, hangs 
sheathed on his back, looking like a sword that could easily weigh 60 lbs, but 
the weight of which on his back seems not to affect him at all.
 
Merina
	There is not much to distinguish this woman who looks to be in her mid 
twenties. At about 5'4" she may be slightly shorter than the average, but not so 
much as it makes a difference. She has a compact, wiry build that lends her an 
athletic look. Her deep-set brown eyes lend her a solemn expression, which 
brightens somewhat when she smiles. Her complexion is a sallow olive color; 
she'd do with sitting in the sun for a bit. The chestnut brown hair that falls a 
few inches below her shoulders is so curly that frizzy is a better word for it. 
Today she has chosen to wear it loose. Her face is somewhat overwhelmed by the 
bulk of her hair, and the over all effect is to make her look a bit younger. 
   Merina is wearing a deep green, ankle-length dress with a jacquard pattern 
of leaves scattered over it. The dress has a high neck, a fitted bodice, and a 
fit-flattering six gore skirt. Over this she wears a hooded, duster-length cloak 
of green. Her feet are well protected in a pair of low-heeled boots.

Elthar
   Stark lines, sharp and yet graceful at the same time comprise this form of 
a man. Tall, thin and lithe, with gaunt musculature that is well toned, though 
not unusually powerful. The man's skin is a subtle ashen gray with the barest 
hints of a pale blue, and bears a sheen as though it were moist. The form is 
humanoid, but the bone structure seems somehow more delicate; more prone to 
swift movements and quiet stalking than the bulkier human form. His limbs are 
long and nimble, his hands graced by barely discernable yellowish splotches 
along the underside of his forearm and palms.
   His face is tall, as the rest of him, and bears little in the way of fat 
or muscle. The bone structure is prominent; sharp cheek bones and a sharp, 
narrow nose stand out. His eyes are intense, a dark sort of grayish black that 
clashes with the yellow about his somewhat slitted cornea. His lips are wide and 
full, pushed outward at either corner by an odd structure of the skull beneath 
his flesh, with flutes up his face to point larger than human ears. The man's 
hair, left somewhat long and usually wind tussled and only lightly brushed into 
a semblance of order, is a pale grayish black to match his eyes. There is an 
intensity in those eyes, and a discipline that is somewhat unnerving in the 
overly perceptive gaze of the slightly over-large eyes.
   The man is clothed in simple garb; an off-white sleeveless tunic wraps 
over each shoulder and covers the pale blue over each shoulder and covers the 
pale blue skin of his chest, and is tucked into a hard, brown leather belt. He 
wears simple pants of a drab brown, and boots of brown leather. The belt has a 
few pouches sewn into it, which snap forward on the front, and a buckle of some 
matte plastisteel.

Rruka
   A smallish Trianni is this rather cheery black and white feline. His eyes 
are a brilliant greenish-gold hidden in a black cap that extends around the top 
of his head. A white blaze is perfectly positioned between his eyes. His lower 
face is purest white except for his black nose and a few large freckles of black 
around his chin. His fur appears slightly long but baby fine. Other markings are 
hidden beneath a tunic of a soft slate gray. White hands appear out of the folds 
of the darker slate robe. Blacker freckling shows on the clawed fingers. A few 
blotches appear on the wrists. At his small feline feet are soft boots that 
soften his step and give him a more civilized look. His black ears have a slight 
tuft to them. His whiskers are bright white and stand out on the black cap 
pattern of his head fur.

Courtyard -- Jedi Praxeum  
   This vast courtyard is where much of the daily life of the Jedi can be 
observed. A park-like area near the bridge is often used as a study area, and 
the open areas in that park are teaming with life as students and teachers alike 
take part in sports and athletic activities, honing the body. At each corner of 
the square compound is a tower that is easily 200 stories high. Paths criss-cross 
the entire compound and run the perimeter, from tower to tower. At the north end 
of the compound is a large hill constructed of many different types and sizes of 
boulders.
   In the center of the courtyard is the largest tower, rising another 100 
stories above the other towers in the complex. The double-wide, ornate doors to 
this tower are always open. Unlike the other towers, this one has a wide section 
near the top that removes the tapered look the other towers have. Above this 
bulge is where the Jedi Council Chamber is located.

From on the bridge a seething boil of dark side energy approaches, although not 
with any particular evil intent towards the Praxeum or those inside, in fact as 
the Sith Warrior stands patiently at a blockade hastily set up of Battlemasters, 
any masters or Jedi studying him would sense more curiosity and annoyance than 
anger or intent to harm. He is trying to be patient though, as he more than 
understands their hesitance to let him in without word from someone.

Merina sighs softly. Clearly they are annoying this young man. She is glad of 
the distraction at the gates. "Look at that" she says, indicating to Moira and 
Elthar the commotion.

Moira does indeed turn to look. 'Oh, stars, it's that Ba-ba fellow that is 
always hanging around Rruka.' But of course, she's got to go greet him, it's 
polite and all. "Excuse me," Moira says to Elthar and Merina. "I'm going to go 
see what he's up to. I'd swear he's following Rruka around." And the Padawan 
trots off toward the plethora of Knights talking to the Lord. "Hello, sir." She 
says when she finally arrives. And of course this greeting probably draws a few 
raised eyebrows- but Moi just keeps going. "What can we do for you?" Moira 
Brennan, out of line as to the etiquette as usual. But at least she's been able 
to keep out of harm, so far, by being nice and trying very hard to not insult 
the Dark Side guy.

	Elthar's face snaps in the direction of the seething feeling of singular 
dread; of fear, loathing, sadism that seem to seep from the very essence of the 
man who walks openly among the Jedi. His face goes utterly dark, and the young 
Jedi frowns, his voice barely a hiss beneath his breath.
	"Why is that here?" Elthar says hoarsely, his voice carrying an edge of 
demand.

Ashton emerges from the tower at a steady and swift pace. He's not rushing, but 
he and the Knight beside him are definitely not looking around to see where to 
go. Both set a direct course for the main entry, but neither appears distraught. 
Ashton looks over to his friend, Jedi Knight Tirol'dyn. "They called us here for 
him?" he asks with a smirk, nodding towards Ba'Sha. It will take them a minute 
or so to cover the ground between the tower they just left and the entry, but 
they do not hurry. Tirol'dyn shakes his head slowly. "So anxious for 
confrontations these young ones are..." And it's clear he still considers it a 
loss that Tai Jinn went the route of a Battlemaster, rather than as a scholar 
where Tirol'dyn saw his strengths. Ashton points a finger ahead to where he sees 
Moira approach the gate. "See? I told you..." as if referring to a private 
conversation the two had just been having.

Ba'sha /almost/ smiles at Moira, "Young Ms. Brennan, how are you today?" He 
shakes his head at the offer of help, "I merely wish to see the facilities, 
perhaps ask some questions while I'm here on Coruscant, however." He points to 
the people gathered around, "Your compatriots seem to be a little hesitant about 
allowing me in."

Merina of course, is blissfully ignorant of all this. All she sees is the same 
man who was on Arkania buying clothing at the trading post. The attention he 
garners from Moira and Elthar piques her curiosity. She hesitates a moment, and 
then sits back down on the bench. She watches Ashton and Tirol'dyn walk buy at 
their unhurried hurried gate. It isn't a good time to ask questions.

	Perceptive as he is, Elthar spots the lightsaber on Ashton's hip, and 
though he's never met the man, makes the determination he must at least be a 
Knight. The young Acolyte makes his way swiftly to the man's side.
	"Why is that thing here?" he hisses to the fellow Jedi, rather curtly. 
Apparently, this Elthar isn't one for manners, even towards his superiors.

"I'm doing splendidly, thank you. As for viewing the Praxeum- though I'd love to 
give you a tour, I'll have to get permission from a Knight or Master. I don't 
think I can just bring visitors in for a stroll." Moi smiles brightly, trying to 
choose words that make the Sith Lord seem a guest and not some unwelcome guy 
who's wandered in. She senses her master approaching from behind, and there's a 
definite sense of 'hello' to her mood and thoughts, but she doesn't turn to 
look. After all, she's speaking to Ba'Sha and she doesn't want to appear to be 
ignoring him, because he is a guest after all.

Merina rises, and walks over to a closer bench. She sits down, unnoticed. There 
is something going on here, she can feel it, she just doesn't know what it is.

Ashton raises an eyebrow at the hissed words of the Acolyte - what is it with 
that eyebrow anyway? As the trio nears the entry, Ashton looks over at Elthar. 
"Not everything is as clear as black and white, young padawan." Nothing else is 
said, however Tirol'dyn moves to Elthar's side. He is unarmed or so it appears. 
He nods to Ashton as the Knight moves forward. "Watch and learn, young Elthar." 

Ashton steps up behind the Knights and even a padawan forming a semi-circle in 
front of Ba'Sha. He pushes his way through the barrier and nods to Ba'Sha. 
"General..." he says respectfully with a nod. He doesn't wait for an immediate 
reply, instead turning to those Knights behind him. A stern look and all but one 
of the Knights bow their heads and turn away. Ashton turns back to Ba'Sha.

Ba'sha bows to Ashton, a bow deep enough to show Ashton as his equal, and almost 
low enough to indicate Ashton as a superior, but not quite. Perhaps Ba'Sha even 
feels that he is, but the image must be kept, "I don't believe I caught your 
name sir Knight..." He thinks for a moment, hmming as the dark side around him 
continues to swirl, perhaps disturbing several padawan's visions, apparently he 
hasn't thought to dampen it, "Wait a moment, Ashon? Ashun?" He only heard it in 
passing after all, gesturing to Moira, "I was just discussing the possibility of 
a tour with Ms. Brennan."

	"Its presence in this place is a disgrace to our order," Elthar says 
sternly over the Knight. He doesn't seem to care that he's interrupting the man, 
"I cannot believe that our order would come to this ... it's mere existence is 
against all that we hold dear. It is a criminal, and worse. I, for one, will not 
stand here in its presence. If only I thought that it would do any good, I would 
take up a saber against it here and now, as every Jedi should. Since it would do 
no good, I will be in my quarters."
	The Tallosian fixes a glare, not of hatred but of sharp perception - of 
vigilance and of intensity upon the Sith General, before turning on his heel and 
making his way towards the apartments.

Merina is taken aback by the young man's vilification. It is clear, even to her. 
Apparently she and Moira weren't the only ones to set foot on his wrong side. 
She turns her attention from his retreating form, back to Ashton and Moira.

General, hmm? Moira's ears are getting sharper, and she picks up on the title. 
"Of course, I was telling the General that I would be happy to escort him, but 
that I'd need to speak to someone to make sure it was acceptable." After Moi 
sums up her conversation with Ba'Sha thus far, she smiles again and falls 
silent, letting her own master negotiate the acceptability of the Sith Lord's 
desires. Moira can't really grant or deny a guest anything herself, after all.

Ashton returns Ba'sha's bow on equal terms. He is aware of all those around him 
and senses the anger in Elthar before he even speaks. His reaction is swift as 
he turns his head to look over his shoulder. Not a single word is uttered in 
that second as the Acolyte turns away toward the tower. Turning back to the 
Sith, he senses the growing anger surging. He holds up his hands to placate the 
man. "He is young, General. Allow him his lack of etiquette and trust he will 
learn. As I trust your own students must be taught..."

The power surrounding Ba'Sha flares ever so briefly, although it quickly is 
tamed, and it's clear that only the presence of Ashton and the knowledge he is 
in the heart of Jedi power is keeping Ba'Sha from lashing out with the power of 
the dark side and snapping the arrogant young Acolyte's head from his 
shoulders...however the impulse is so quickly tamed, one might almost think it 
not there, and when he speaks to Ashton, it is with the utmost civility, "I can 
see some form of reputation precedes me. Like you say though, the power that 
comes with the passion of youth, is often untempered by manners in some 
cases....a lesson all cubs learn." he nods to Ashton, "If he wishes to formally 
challenge me, I would be more than happy to meet him in fair and honorable 
combat." He eyes the retreating Acolyte with some longing, and perhaps 
suggesting combat was even a mistake, however it is an acceptable way of 
settling differences both among the Sith and among the tribes in which he was 
raised....and he adds on a disclaimer, "Not to the death of course..."

	Elthar whirls at the sound of the Sith's voice, "Passion? Hardly. Anger? 
Yes. Everyone has anger . . . and I must learn to it control ere I am ever 
considered a true Jedi. You are a threat, and one that must be removed. My anger 
is towards the Council, for allowing such a thing as you here."
	The Tallosian fixes a pointed stare at Ashton, "Discipline me if you will, 
but this disgusts me to the point that I care not for your orders on the matter. 
I go now, to let go of my anger . . . perhaps you could learn something from 
that, General of the Sith."
	The last, obviously, towards Ba'sha. And now the Acolyte leaves, some of 
the tension in his form ebbing, but still as uncontrolled as to be expected; he 
is, after all, an Acolyte, and even some Knights are as radical as he.

Merina is stunned by this outburst from the acolyte. She wants very much to rise 
up and get closer, but she cannot will herself to get up from the bench. No one 
has paid her any mind though, so she leans closer to better see what is going 
on.

Hmm. This wasn't good. Moira shoots a glance back at the retreating Elthar, 
before looking back to the General. Of course, they're talking about training 
and all, and since Moira is still -in- training, it's not her place to really 
jump on in. So she does the only thing she can, look cheerful and stay quiet.

A smile comes naturally to the Jedi Knight as he nods to the General. "Well 
General, that wouldn't exactly be a fair fight now, would it? Certainly not a 
test of mettle for a warrior such as yourself." Wow, laying it on a little 
thick, are you Ashton? But in every sense of the Force, he appears to have a 
genuine respect for the warrior and the desire for peace. "Actually, I am told 
there is not a problem with your touring the Praxeum, General. Of course the 
residence and training towers cannot be visited. Those are the private areas of 
the students and no visitors are typically allowed to visit those buildings." He 
gestures out towards the courtyard. "The grounds are available for anyone to 
walk among. You'll find them to be quite peaceful ... and an encouraging 
backdrop to meditate or focus on the Force."

Ashton turns to Moira with a nod and a smile. "I don't think there will be a 
problem with the General taking a tour of the open grounds, Moira. Please honor 
his request." And now his eyes revert to Ba'sha. "Oh, I apologize. My name is 
Ashton Quince." And now he steps aside, making it clear that Moira, his padawan, 
will be the escort for the General, although Ashton resolves to stay nearby.

Ba'sha nods his head to Ashton, inclining it in a slight bow, with an odd half-
smile on his face, "Though perhaps, never having witnessed it, you over 
exaggerate my prowess, you are right in this case." See, that's what the Jedi 
need, more people like that Rendafar Rembik and this Ashton fellow, speaking of 
which, "Is there a Rendafar Rembik here of Clan Rembik?" He shakes his head 
already, that would be too much to ask, "I understand the need to reserve some 
areas as off-limits and came expecting as such." He nods to Moira, "Lead away 
young lady," Turning back to Ashton, "Though I hope you will remain near, I met 
a young Jedi earlier named....Tai...I believe, and had quite the discussion on 
the nature of the Force and our two sides...I would look forward to speaking 
with you about Jedi training and belief's." He seems genuine in his desire to 
learn, if not follow.

Stepping out of the Residence towers, now dressed in a fresh robe that doesn't 
have holes in it. It's been a long day since the afternoon in the skies with 
Bane and a long discussion with Phanton and many other masters. However, a new 
presence drags him out of his meditation and to the courtyard, and a running 
pace. Although he doesn't know the situation fully, his hand is already within 
his robes, grasping at something within it, most likely his sabers. Heading 
directly towards the source of the abomination, he approaches where Moira, 
Ashton, and Merina are... noticing Ba'sha as well. Shortly behind him is a 
Master probably frustrated to no end with his padawan.

Following the rushing padawan Phanton keeps his pace. A slight sigh at the 
impetuous nature of the young one slips past his lips. He says nothing though as 
he is pulled towards the crowd.

Moira nods to her master, as Ashton suggests she be the tour giver. "Alright, 
General. I'd be glad to show you anything you'd like to see." And there's a 
smile as she senses Tai rushing out. Silly boy. "Is there something specific 
you'd like to see, or will 'the sights' do well enough." Moi waits to lead the 
way, however, until Tai and the Master arrive. Just in case they are heading for 
Ba'Sha, Ashton, and herself.

Actually, Ashton allows his padawan to lead the general on his tour, but walks 
along, but behind them both and to the side. His hands are clasped together with 
the thumbs pressing together in the 'Jedi posture'. He too notes Tai's approach 
and nods to him calmly as he closes the gap much more quickly than his master. 
The Knight's smile does lessen a bit as he notes Phanton's approach, as his 
demeanor takes on a posture of humbleness to the Devaronian Jedi Master.

Ba'sha notes the arrival of yet another Master (made clear by Ashton's posture) 
and the Knight he met earlier, although it would appear the Knight has some 
plans in mind what with fumbling about in his robes like that, and though 
Ba'sha's hands twitch towards his sword, they don't raise noticeably or go to it 
on his back, and he settles back down into a relaxed and wide stance as he 
greets the Jedi, surely he wouldn't do anything with two masters right there, 
Tai would be thrown out for sure, "Hello Jedi..." he addresses Tai, and then 
bows deeply towards Phanton.

Tai continues to approach the group before stopping and sighing in relief, it's 
only Ba'sha. Odd, one would think that the presence of the Sith Lord would bring 
more of a reaction than a sigh. Of course, he just played with Bane... and 
that's probably who Tai thought it was. Slowing, he nods towards Ba'sha, 
"Greetings General, I did not anticipate you coming this soon to visit." 
Suddenly Tai goes from being overaggressive in appearance to being diplomatic. 
His hands are still beneath his robes, but he appears to be rubbing his chest, 
scratching it as opposed to holding any type of weapons. Looking at Phanton, he 
raises a questioning eyebrow to his Master. "Master, do you mind if I speak with 
Ashton a moment about the events this evening?"

Moi raises an eyebrow- Tai knows the General. But it only lasts a moment, and 
she goes back to smiling. And it looks like the little tour is going to be 
delayed- for Ashton is now speaking to Tai, and the Master Phanton is 
approaching...so Moi turns her attention back to the guest. "How are you finding 
Coruscant so far, General?" Moi inquires politely.

Ashton lifts an eyebrow in curiosity at the request of Master Phanton. At the 
Master's nod of approval, he tilts his head and nods to the young battlemaster-
in-training. Excusing himself to Moira and Ba'sha, he steps a few meters away, 
well away from the immediate vicinity of Ba'sha and Moira. "What is it, Tai 
Jinn?" he asks, turning to the young man.

Ba'sha nods to Moira, waving for her to move onto the tour now, "Just the 
general 'sights' as you put it will be well enough." He smiles again, "As a 
matter of fact I find Coruscant somewhat...disconcerting. I've never seen quite 
so many buildings in all of my life....it's so....unnatural."

Tai slowly opens his robes and lifts his undershirt to reveal heavy bruising. "I 
tried to self-heal these, and Moira helped... but they seem to be persistent. I 
was hoping you could show me how to heal this type of tissue damage?" How sweet, 
he's asking for help. He could have easily asked Master Phanton, but for some 
reason he went to Ashton for this one. Probably because Phanton has enough to 
take care of with the council and Tai understands, and respects that. "You heard 
what happened, right?"

Moira nods to Ba'Sha, making her way into the Courtyard proper. "I fully 
understand." She says, in response to the comment about buildings. 'It's a 
little disconcerting at first. When I came over from Ossus, it was a bit 
unsettling." As soon as she's sure the Lord is following, she begins explaining 
the sights. "What you see before you is the Praxeum's courtyard. Acolytes and 
Padawan come out here to train, and Knights and Masters oversee their progress 
as well as using the courtyard for their own purposes."

"I heard some, Tai Jinn. Bane?" Ashton doesn't really expect an answer as he has 
heard the basics so far. And then he turns to where Moira is with Ba'sha. She 
had learned the art of self healing to a strong degree and was getting stronger 
in healing others, but Tai was right... this would be a good learning experience 
for the young battlemaster. He reaches out with his left hand, taking Tai's 
right hand in his own and placing it palm down on a clean, undamaged area. "Just 
as the Force allows you see things from far away ... or allows you to sense 
others ... it lets you see on a cellular level... at least to what is normal and 
what is not." He moves the hand to a wounded area. "Find the difference in the 
tissue. What you see here..." he says and moves his own hand back to an 
unwounded area, "is different than what you see here."

Of course, Sith healing is quite a bit more violent than Jedi healing, or at 
least Ba'sha's is...even when he heals himself it's excruciating, taking all the 
pain and discomfort he'd have over the natural healing process, and condensing 
it into the few minutes it takes to heal, sheer torture, however as these 
thoughts run through his mind he nods his head to Moira, "It is rather peaceful 
out here....but where is the harshness of training? Where is the crucible that 
breaks down those trained into something stronger? It seems so...." his voice is 
tinged with distaste, "comfortable."

Tai nods as he feels and sees the differences through the force. The basics were 
taught to him, he could heal himself very well for the most part, but the object 
now was to do it in a superb fashion and quickly so that if he were ever struck, 
he could heal it. "I can see the difference..." he states quietly as his hand is 
led around. "But how do I heal it?"

"Comfortable?" Moira says, blinking. "There is no crucible that breaks you. 
We've tests, but they come as you progress." Hmm, Sith training sounds very 
different from Jedi training. "It's supposed to be peaceful- we learn to feel 
the Force, and act in accordance with it. Everything we do stems from that." 
There's a pause as Moi tries to decide what is appropriate for her to ask. "Why, 
are crucibles a large part of the training you underwent?"

Ashton nods, "Bruising and internal pain is largely due to the blood flow. Even 
though the actual damage to the organs are repaired, bruises are caused by pain 
receptors and blood vessels. The organs are easy to see, which is why every Jedi 
can repair them more easily than the cosmetic damage." This brings a grin to 
Ashton's face. It was far easier to know a healer from any other type of Jedi. 
Very few Jedi saw a bruise as necessary to heal, but Tai had already learned 
that the pain it inflicted was often enough to alter focus... away from the 
Force. "You can't remove the damaged tissue, or fuse it with other damaged 
tissue to mend it. So you must 'renew' it. Heal it from inside-out. Pain is 
easier, as you well know. You numb the receptors until they are no longer 
irritated. Here, you must heal the very blood in the veins and arteries." He 
takes Tai's hand and places it over a small bruise. Placing his hand on top of 
the back of Tai's hand, he closes his eyes for just a moment and then takes his 
hand away.

Ba'sha nods his affirmation of Moira's question, "This may shock you but it is 
part of the formal schooling I have had." Formal? Did he receive informal 
training from somewhere???? "Do you know why I was pronounced the finest and the 
best out of my class of Acolytes?" He raises an eyebrow, "Because I was one of 3 
left alive, out of a class of 10, many of whom I killed in open combat myself, 
although assassinations are not rare...killing in the dark is so distasteful. If 
you must strike, I believe you should look your enemy in the face." He nods and 
continues, this time his voice sounds canned, as if reading from something he 
has heard repeated more times than he can count, "The Sith warrior is dedicated 
to the subjugation of any obstacle to the Sith tradition. The way of the Sith 
warrior is a constant, unforgiving test of will and ability, honing each into a 
fearsome blade. The training of the Sith Warrior is always one of deprivation 
and hardship. Mercy and forbearance create a weak weapon, and such a weapon is 
useless. The Sith warrior is subjected to endless conditioning and drilling. 
Displays of fear or uncertainty are rewarded with painful and educational 
punishment while, displays of strength and ruthlessness are rewarded with 
another day's survival. The Sith warrior learns to live for the precious few 
words of encouragement his master gives." A wry almost grin comes to his face, 
"I am currently a Sith Warrior." That's what his life is like, whenever he is 
back home and not off on a mission, "Although it is slightly, and only slightly 
easier because of my duties as general."

Tai Jinn senses, "Ashton lays his hand on the back of yours. As the healing 
energy of the Force enters your hand, it leads you through the skin to where you 
see the damaged blood vessels. The 'view' actually penetrates the outer membrane 
of the blood vessel and enters its center where dark discolored cells are 
abundant. As the Force touches each cell, its color changes to a lighter shade 
of red. Eventually, the Force touches them all and the view backs out of the 
vessel. When you open your eyes, you realize it only took a few moments for the 
entire journey"

Rruka appears from the living towers. His fur is disarranged making it look like 
he's been sleeping in his clothing...err fur. Yawning loudly he just keeps 
slowly moving forward toward the group that consists of those he recognizes. A 
few more steps and another yawn. He pulls some of the wrinkles out of his newer 
tunic since the previous one he's got off to the side wondering if he wants to 
wear a sign saying 'tag your it.' He blinks his gold eyes more open and puts a 
hand to his head nursing the mother of all headaches wondering how he managed to 
sleep as long as he did without being awakened. Though if they tried he'd 
probably not have realized it.

Heal the injury from the inside out... intriguing. As Ashton guides Tai through 
the healing of a bruise, the younger of the two men closes his eyes and allows 
the knight and the force to guide him through the procedure. The usage of their 
hands truly isn't even necessary as Tai knows very well. Blinking his eyes open, 
he looks at the wound as the hand is taken away and nods a bit. "It is rather 
simple in a way... My only question is how fast can I do the procedure if I have 
to hasten it? Is there a certain limit on how quickly I should take this?" 
Questions start to pour out from Tai now, "In addition... I need to learn to 
levitate myself and Phanton will be busy for a bit of time with the council due 
to this latest incident... If you had the time, I was wondering if you could 
possibly give some pointers?"

Moira blinks, not sure how to take that. "I...well, I can't agree with that. 
Though I can agree that it's at least polite to face people face to face, as 
opposed to striking when they're down. You see, Jedi just don't do that. The 
weak aren't there to be killed off just because they're weak, from our point of 
view. They're to be helped, taught. Everyone deserves a chance, deserves to be 
protected. Sometimes I can do the protecting, and if I can it's my duty to do 
so. Just as others would protect me if I needed it." The Lord gets a sideways 
glance from Moira, and she adds, "I'm glad you survived. But do you ever think 
about those that didn't? What they were like, or would have been able to do if 
they lived? I think I would." It's not meant to be rude, the girl sounds 
genuinely curious, and her face isn't disapproving- just intent and open.

Ashton nods sagely, as if it were simple. It actually would take Tai several 
hours to heal all of his wounds and only with total focus on it. He would have 
to learn how each cell reacted to the Force and the touch it took to actually 
heal it. It took Ashton years to get to be as fast as he was at healing, and he 
says as much to Tai. "This is a discipline that takes months or even years to 
learn, Tai Jinn, must less master." He smiles encouragingly though. "But if you 
can find those pain receptors, the bruises /are/ only cosmetic... although the 
receptors don't stay dulled, it can be done much faster than total healing." He 
pauses, thinking about the question on levitation. "Actually, I think Moira 
would be a good teacher for that... I will of course help you, but it will be a 
good test of her growing connection to the Force for her to assist you." With 
that, he nods his head in the direction of Ba'sha and Moira, as if to say, 
'shall we?'

Rruka gets over by where the group is, finds a spot to sit down and promptly 
passes out for another nap unless interrupted. He curls up a little.

Ba'sha shakes his head, "The weak only drag down the strong." It's not said as 
an ultimate completely right answer, merely as an opinion, and her question on 
whether he thinks of them or not gains a thoughtful hum, "I have occasionally 
found time to think about the others that were in my Acolyte class, and no 
matter what I think about it I come to only one conclusion, their deaths were 
all their own faults." He raises a hand in vague gesture as he explains, "If 
they had been a little faster, or stronger, or in most cases smarter and more 
cunning, practiced more...they would have not died. They would have succeeded in 
their attempts to kill me, or at least prevent me from killing them."

Nodding agreement to Ashton to join the others, Tai begins to walk. "The reason 
I ask about the levitation is that Moira had to do it today as opposed to 
letting me fall from the sky. I believe it'll be more beneficial if I can do it 
as well for future reference."

"But then you'd be dead. Surely there's a way for you all to live?" Moira 
queries, smiling gently as she points out what seems obvious to her. "It just 
sounds very...competitive. We try to work together, and learn and teach each 
other. For example, Tai Jinn is more skilled with the lightsaber than I am. But 
I've skills that perhaps exceed his, in other areas. And Knight Rendafar can do 
things both of us can't. Probably a lot more. So there's always something new to 
learn, someone new to learn from. And we don't have to kill each other."

"Diversity builds strength, General," Ashton says as he and Tai approach. "Lord 
Malice told me once that in your society, being different breeds enemies. We 
believe it is our differences that make us each a living part of the Force. No 
one being can possess all of it." He inclines his head to the warrior as they 
rejoin Moira and Ba'sha.

Tai Jinn senses, "Ashton touches your mind through the Force. When you turn to 
look at him, he nods toward Rruka. The indication to wake him is clear."

Tai stands right beside Moira as they approach. No real reason other than it's 
where he feels he should be. Odd Tai. Nodding at Ashton's statements he turns to 
look at Rruka and nudges the Trianni with the force, summoning him silently as 
well. It is time for him to learn some lessons for the day. "It is in our 
differences that we draw strength. For instead of having weaknesses, together we 
all have strengths.

Rruka twitches his ear and curls up tighter.

Ba'sha nods his head to Ashton as he joins back in the group, "Oh, there are 
different classes of course, we recognize that not everyone can do everything, 
hence the necromancer's, the seer's, the sorcerers, the battle-ragers, and etc. 
However only the finest of this class are allowed to survive, just like the 
natural animal world of the wild." He nods his head, "The world that makes up 
much of the force I would point out, in this way it is assured that every Sith 
lord you meet is the best in his field." Ba'Sha has only a scant few months 
before he will become a Sith Lord, even if his title is already Lord Commander 
because of the military, "Take the issue of Tai and Moira here for example, if I 
were to attack Moira...he would be required by your code to defend her if she 
could not defend herself, however this would leave HIM open to attack, and more 
vulnerable, and possibly even give the opening needed to strike him down. When 
you have to concentrate on defending the weak around you all the time, you're 
own forces are spread too thin."

Tai Jinn and Moira senses, "Ashton mentally suggest both of you to not ask him 
to prove that ..."

Moira nods to Ba'Sha, indicating that she fully agrees with her master's 
statements. But as Tai and Ashton have stepped in, she's quiet until he starts 
talking about protecting each other. "I'm afraid I have to disagree. If you 
attack me, I would only be protected if I could not defend myself. And there are 
more ways of defense than battle." Moira states. Yeah, like avoiding it. She 
smiles again, just because, and falls silent. Ashton could probably debate this 
far better than Moi could.

Now this brings Ashton's eyebrow up with not only curiosity, but of amusement. 
"Do you really think so?" His hands have returned to in front of his body in the 
'Jedi posture'. "But what if Tai's defense of Moira did not involve blocking 
your blade but attacking you instead? Would that too leave his defenses open?" 
Ashton glances at Moira and then back to Ba'sha. "You see, even if Moira were 
completely helpless, there is more to the Force than just controlling a 
lightsaber. The Force does not require your death to protect Moira. Just the 
removal of the threat." As if to emphasize this, Ashton's left hand lashes out 
quickly - but toward Ba'sha .. but to his side where Rruka lay sleeping.

The fact that Ba'sha even implicated that Tai would not be able to both protect 
Moira and even a plethora of others while fighting causes him to raise an 
eyebrow. He knows his limitations, but it's the fact that he's having them 
dictated to them. However Ashton and Moira speak before he can, and sums up his 
ideas very well. Folding his hands behind him like a good Jedi, big dumb Tai 
continues to stand there smiling. He likes shiny things, a coin will keep him 
distracted for hours on end.

Rruka senses, "Ashton lashes out with his left hand in your direction, although 
you don't see it for you are asleep. A Force push hits you, but not hard... it 
merely picks you up a few centimeters and rolls you over, albeit a bit hard."

Ba'sha shakes his head, "But what if the choice is between Moira, and say...a 
group of slaves?" Tai and he discussed this earlier, "Let's say that there is a 
set amount of time for Tai to free a group of slaves, and Moira is defenseless, 
truly so. And that the only way he could free the slaves from death would be to 
allow someone to strike her down?" He nods his head in agreement with one of 
Ashton's principles, "Victory does not always require defeating your opponent, 
and sometimes it merely requires they not defeat you." A corner of his mouth 
tugs into a smile, "Sometimes, merely leaving alive is a victory."

Rruka sudden rolls over and tries to get up. Well considering he's now not the 
way he was he can't quite figure which way is up. He hisses and growls before 
figuring that the sky means up and sits up. Now his fur is REALLY standing on 
end and he looks like he had a fight with a blow dryer and can of hair spray. 
Gold eyes are wide as he stares at the group, "What was that for?!" He mrrs and 
keeps blinking his eyes as he figures what exactly happened. He looks at Tai and 
Ba as if silently blaming them,.

And a laugh, deep and heartfelt emits from the General at Rruka, and he raises a 
hand in greeting, "Greetings Cub, I see you are still recovering from your 
eventful time..."

Moira blinks, Rruka's little awakening shoving all responses out of her mind. 
She doesn't smile, but she doesn't really frown, either. Just...observes. She's 
not quite on with where Ashton is going, but she's willing to see it through.

Tai's eyes fall upon Rruka and the look the cub gives him. Perhaps one would 
tread a bit more cautiously if they understood the day Tai just had, but Mr. 
Jinn's eyes lock upon Rruka for a long moment. No thoughts or words are stated, 
but expressions should be enough, and a long hard stare from Tai is an uncommon 
thing. Slowly, he lifts his eyes back to Ba'sha. "Your hypothetical questions 
are all rhetorical. Any actions that I would take in such a situation would be 
guided by the force, hence, whatever happened would be as it guided me." That's 
right, Tai just said that. Blinking as Ashton sends Tai off, the battlemaster in 
training turns and heads for Rruka. To baby-sit.

Ashton chuckles as his hand returns to his front, again clasping the other. 
"Tai, help Rruka..." He turns his full attention to Ba'sha. "You really are 
curious about this, aren't you?" he asks, almost surprised that his curiosity 
doesn't seem to be stemming from anger or vengeance. Sure, the Sith wanted to 
learn the Jedi weaknesses, but he was very interested, almost in an educational 
way. The Knight shrugs, "We are not all that wise, you see? Our wisdom stems 
from the Force and what it shows us." And then, he says the most dangerous -- 
and debated -- words ever uttered by a Jedi: "A Jedi is not a creature of 
morality, General. Our actions are not based on moral decisions to be made, but 
rather by the will of the Force."

Rruka narrows his eyes back. IF Tai's had a bad day, Rruka has had a bad week. 
It seems he is NOT going to allow himself to be bullied around today. Standing 
slowly he bows a little to Moira, quickly dismissing Tai. "How are you today 
Moira?" He turns to look at the Knight, "Ashton?" And of course last but not 
least, he turns to Ba'sha, "And you Lord Sith sir?" Hmmm someone's getting 
ignored.

Ba'sha nods his head, seeming very, very shocked at Ashton's words, which are 
indeed as dangerous and debated as his thought processes give them credit for, 
and what approaches for only the second time now a wide and genuine smile cross 
his face, "A very wise position to argue from Ashton, a very wise position. 
Morality can be debated for generations and never be resolved, and indeed can 
not be proved right or wrong one way or another, however the way of the force is 
clear, but the force has two sides." He shrugs, "It is not my master's way, and 
I was beaten several times severely for mentioning as such but...." he pauses a 
moment, hesitant to speak his mind, "I am a believer in balance. I do not 
believe the light side could exist without the dark side, and yet I also admit 
that without the light side the dark side would be nothing." He takes a moment 
to pause and nod his greetings to the properly respectful Cub before continuing, 
"I believe there is room for both of us in the universe, although I do not 
foresee any others accepting that. It is a simple matter of expediency, our 
views are too different, our interpretations of the force too exclusive, to ever 
allow co-habitation, one of us must cease to be." He grins a somewhat more 
wicked smile, "And I hope you will not judge me if I wish for it to be all of 
you that meet your end."

"You've already proved you want to survive. I just think it's a shame that co-
existence seems to be out of the question, in your mind." Moira says, honestly. 
And then she glances to Rruka. Well, if he's not going to be polite to Tai, 
Moira will be only polite to him, and not overly cheerful as usual. "I am fine, 
Rruka. And you?" She's not rude, because rude isn't Moira's way. Just not so 
warm and cuddly as usual. Rude doesn't really cut it with her, any more than 
with Ba'Sha. She just doesn't hurt people for being rude.

Tai's arms come from behind his robes and fold over his chest as a smile curls 
on his lips as he regards Ba'sha, Rruka brushed aside now for the moment. If the 
Acolyte dislikes Tai, he'll have far more to worry about and Tai is in no 
position to educate on that. "It is indeed a shame you feel that way, but I 
trust you will continue to use etiquette and diplomacy while amongst us here." 
His own voice is very diplomatic. "After all, stating that you would like us all 
to die... while standing in the midst of this ground... just doesn't quite 
qualify to me as polite." There are a lot of Acolyte's about, and if Ba'sha 
flinches, even in the least bit... there will be defending going on.

Ashton smiles, but his eyebrows furrow at Tai's comment. "I don't believe the 
general intended that as a threat, Tai Jinn. He's simply educating us about 
himself as much as we offer knowledge about ourselves." He turns to Ba'sha, 
knowing he doesn't need to get clarification on that, for indeed it would be 
dangerous for the Sith to actually act on those words here. "I believe the 
General is a man of his word in that he comes here with non-violent intentions. 
He holds a different view that yours, Tai Jinn.., and perhaps of all of us. But 
again," he says, turning to look at Moira, Tai and Rruka in turn, "this allows 
for diversity and as he has said, balance."

Rruka seems to calm down and hesitantly bows to Ba'sha, "I thank you for 
your......umm....healing?" Yeah if that's what you call making one feel they are 
on fire. "I hope we will continue to learn from each other rather then battle 
for some time to come. It would be sad for our communication to be cut short 
through premature loss of life."

Ba'sha nods his head at Ashton's wisdom, and merely smiles at Tai, "Of course 
Tai, every single day millions of people on this planet probably say they wished 
/someone/ or another was dead, but how often do you expect them to carry it out? 
I am here on a peaceful mission, a mission that would hardly be helped by such 
actions, and I have excellent self-control." He waves his hands around at the 
surroundings, "Not to mention I would be no match for the many fine warriors 
stationed here. I would think of nothing BUT etiquette, perhaps I was rude." He 
acknowledges this with a nod, "However I was speaking the truth, speaking from 
within myself, and I believe that is always better than a polite lie." He can't 
help it though, honor and pleasure demand it, "If you would like to formally 
challenge me to a sparring session though? Non fatal of course, but it would 
seem you are interested in the results."

Ba'sha nods to Rruka, grinning, "I am sorry Cub, Sith healing methods are not 
interested in comfort, only results." he says nothing else as he waits on Ashton 
to ixnay the spar or Tai to accept.

Moira nods. She's down with that, all of that stuff Ashton just said. "Plus, he 
likes cake." Moira adds, truly out of nowhere. But things were getting too 
tense, anyways. "And if sparring isn't quite everyone's cup of tea, maybe a nice 
trip to the Holo Zoo?" Moira queries cheerfully, falling silent after that. 
Course there will be no Holo-Zoo visits, but polite, non-injury causing spars 
are alright- as long as Ashton okays it.

Tai nods to Ashton slightly but his eyes remain on Ba'sha as he continues to 
smile. "I am glad that the General and I are on the same page. I did not mean to 
come off as so... aggressive I guess. But there are some who would get concerned 
with your statements about that." Tai doesn't mention the sparring. He's already 
fought one Sith Lord today and is not overly eager to have to fight another, 
even if it is in a non-fatal sparring contest.

Ashton hrms with some amusement, picking up on Tai's decision on a lack of 
desire for another 'sparring' session. "I understand you've already done that 
with Knight Rendafar," he says with a smile. Ashton nods to the empty place 
where Phanton once stood. "Unfortunately, I doubt Tai Jinn's master would have 
to make that call and he is not here. Perhaps another time..." His attention is 
suddenly averted and his eyes automatically look up towards the tower. He nods 
after a few moments. "Well, General... I'm afraid it's getting late. We should 
probably turn in soon as Moira and I have some things to do early tomorrow." He 
gestures towards the main entry. "Please feel free to come back tomorrow. 
Although I cannot promise a warmer welcome than today, I'm sure the Council will 
agree to meet with you, if you so desire."

Ba'sha blinks. He /does/ like cake...who doesn't? But where the heck did that 
come from Moira? He gives her an odd sideways glance, "That is perfectly okay 
Tai...are you Knight or Padawan by the way?" Ba'Sha just can't bear someone 
without a title, and he bows to Ashton, "Thank you very much for your 
understanding and your hospitality, I have learned much, and hope that I perhaps 
have shown a few of the padawan pretending not to watch from afar that perhaps 
the Sith are not all bad." He then turns and nods in turn to both Moira and Tai, 
deeper to Moira of course...and then seems prepared to be led out.

Rruka looks at Tai a moment and then the others. He lowers his head a little 
sighing, "Perhaps I should be trying to get more sleep.....or meditate more. I 
appear to be rather grouchy."

Moira nods. 'If you need anything and I'm in, General, I'll assist you if my 
master will allow it." The Padawan girl smiles, waiting for Ba'Sha to leave, and 
then turns to look at Ashton. "May I be excused to go off and meditate before 
bed?" She fully intends to take Tai with her- everyone needs company in the 
elevator. But that'll come after she gets permission to go.

Ba'sha strides confidently out of the Praxeum, feeling content in what he's 
learned today, for all knowledge is power, and now he heads off to his 
accommodations, to seek out the Senate at first light.

As Ba'sha leaves the Praxeum, Ashton turns to the three students. "Why don't you 
all return to your rooms... Get some sleep and tomorrow afternoon, I'd like to 
see each one of you..." He nods towards the towers. "Now go on... to your 
meditation and then to bed." The Knight prepares to follow them back to the 
residence towers.

Tai nods towards Ashton than looks to Moira a second. "Moi? Got a second?" If 
you'll excuse them, they're going to delay for a moment and take the second 
elevator up. Something to discuss that others with prying ears might not need... 
or want... to overhear.

"Of course, Tai." Moira says with a smile. She waits to make sure Tai's really 
to head off, and then makes her way to the southwest, to the Residence tower. 
"Good night, Master." She says to Ashton, before leaving."

Nodding a bit at Moira, Tai allows her to lead the way into the Residence 
towers. A slight bow is aimed towards Ashton as they go.

Looking at her, Tai quirks an eyebrow towards Moi. "I thought you had something 
you wanted to say to me..." Frowning, he adds with a chuckle. "Sorry, I was 
prying again..."

"Oh." Moira blinks, realizing what Tai means. "I didn't really have anything to 
say...just company going up in the elevator." The girl smiles at Tai as she 
nears the Tower. "That was...interesting. Yeah?" She asks, thinking about the 
whole Ba'Sha episode.

"Definitely intriguing, and educational..." His comments are accompanied by him 
opening the door for Moira to step inside before him. "I am concerned about the 
dark presence amongst some of the younger ones though... even the older ones. 
Not everyone has been exposed as we have..."

How sweet, opening the door. Moira slips inside, nodding. "He's easy enough to 
get along with, unlike the one you seem to have met up with today. But I think 
Rruka has been spending a little too much time with him." Moi states, waiting 
for Tai to enter before proceeding in further. "However, that's really not our 
place to decide, is it?" And she sounds genuinely curious- like she knows her 
place.

Behind them, Ashton stops outside the tower and turns to look over the now empty 
courtyard, his face one of intense contemplation. Yes, he'd learned more 
information about the Sith, in keeping with the Council's wishes. But hadn't he 
also taught the Sith something as well? Toward the end there, Ashton could've 
sworn he had felt a conflict coming from within Ba'sha. Would the warrior 
actually find a place inside himself where the true nature of the Force could 
shine?  Perhaps it was a good focus of his meditation, he thinks, and turns to 
walk into the residence towers.


END OF LOG