Chapter 2
HorzionBecause of the powerful philosophies and the awesome scope of the Sith/Republic war, neutral planets were a rarity. Neutral planets with anything of value to offer were even more rare, and Manaan was rarest of all. It sat like a polished blue jewel against the black velvet of space. Medical ships of Sith or Republic hovered in orbit. The Ebon Hawk blended in with the smaller space traffic - cargo vessels and pleasure ships.
A message, text only, broadcasted curt instructions to remain in orbit until it was their turn to dock. Carth got the Hawk in position while Mission checked the readouts. The kid was shaping up to be a great co-pilot, but the presence of Sith ships was obviously rattling her.
"They don't set my mind at ease, either," Carth admitted, putting a hand on her shoulder.
That broke the tension, getting a giggle out of Mission. "Gee, Carth. You've been hanging around Kairi too long. You're starting to sound like a Jedi!"
"Really? Didn't think I did."
"Anyway," she said. "What do you know about Manaan? I mean, how can a planet be neutral in this whole war?"
"Gotta wonder that myself, sometimes. Actually, I've never been here, but Manaan has always been neutral. They're the only source of kolto...the healing fluid."
"Wow, really?" she asked. "Hard to imagine it all coming from one place. I...I thought it was synthetic."
"No, it's not. So far, any attempt to synthesize it has failed miserably. That's what makes the planet so important. That's why they can afford to stay neutral."
The lone city, Ahto, was visible through the view-shield. Mission's breath was taken away by the sight of it. "It's...it's beautiful."
"I suppose it is," Carth said, more out of reflex. He had too much on his mind right now.
Several minutes worth of silence passed before Mission must have grown tired of it. "Carth, I gotta ask. Do you like Kairi?"
"Like her? Sure I like her. What of it?"
"No, do you like her," she said. "Y'know...guy-girl type like?"
He groaned. Leave it to Mission to pose an uncomfortable question with the candor that only an adolescent can manage. "That's kinda private, Mission."
She shrugged and went back to adjusting the gauges. Carth couldn't help but feel a certain pride just watching how easily she took to the job. "Just thinking, I guess. Bastila is always talking about how Jedi are all duty and shouldn't have family or friends...and maybe that's why she is the way she is. Meanwhile, Jolee's got his friends with the Wookiees, while Juhani and Kairi made friends with all of us...and it really seems to be good for them." She looked over at Carth. "So, if that's the case, why would those old guys on the Council be telling all these Jedi that friends are bad for them?"
"You don't pick your questions small, do you, Mission?" He took a deep breath. "Well, I'm no Jedi and damn glad for it, so all I can do is guess. Keep that in mind." She waited while he formed an answer. "Now, what I say does not leave the cockpit, okay? You've got to swear about that."
"Cross my heart."
"You...you heard by now that I was married, and that I've got a son. You also know that the Sith did the same thing to my world as yours. I...I was happy, Mission. I loved my wife. I was going to retire from the fleet, grow old with her, watch Dustil grow up...simple stuff really." He sighed. "And Saul Karath was...he was my friend. And I know he considered me one before he turned, that's why he tried to recruit me, I'd guess."
"And he went bad. He wrecked your home, your kid was gone, and your wife..."
"Died in my arms, Mission. I went from having all a man could ask for to having absolutely nothing in less than a day. I swore revenge on Saul, but he wasn't the only one I was angry at...I was mad at the whole damn universe. I did a lot of things that a 'good guy' shouldn't do, Mission, so don't be looking up to me, all right?"
She shrugged. "Too late."
The ship being on autopilot, he leaned back in his chair, pinching the bridge of his nose. "Now, imagine a Jedi, Mission. Imagine all that power and being that angry at the whole universe. Maybe that explains Revan...goes in, sees horror after horror, and just snaps. The difference between people like us and Jedi is that they have the ability to make the universe shriek with the pain inside them."
"Yikes."
"And even though I'm starting not to be so angry anymore...sometimes it hurts so bad that I wish I'd never been friends with Saul, or never got married. The bad memories outweigh the good ones...Guess the Jedi Council are trying to play it safe by telling their students not to care for other people other than as some kind of duty. If you don't care, you don't feel joy or pain."
"So you agree with what they're doing?"
He sighed. "I'm...I'm not sure. Sorry, Mission. If you're looking for philosophical discussions, I'm just not that good with that."
"Fair enough."
"She's not the one the crew needs protecting from."
Bastila had retreated to the cargo hold, one of the few places on the Hawk where she could be left alone. But, was she really interested in solitude? Her brain spun with questions, and she could feel all of the careful plans unraveling before her.
Kairi...she was supposed to be cloistered, protected. On the Spire, everyone had a place. Soldiers tended the ship, officers saw to the progress, and there were no questions as to Jedi authority or Bastila's command. Yet, they were further than they ever had been. The map was nearing completion. Months of fruitless hunting had given way to swift planet-hopping. In the process, a tribe of Tatooine natives were spared genocide, Kashyyyk was liberated, and Czerka (the Sith's primary corporate backer) had suffered a nasty blow to their pocketbook.
Still, it was becoming increasingly obvious that the mission's success was due to failure on her part. She no longer seemed to have any control over anything here, and while her charge stayed true to the Light now, how long would it last? Unfortunately, when Kairi decided to forsake Jedi teachings, the entire crew would still back her. That prospect made Bastila even more worried. Damn it! She had the whole crew wrapped around her tiny finger. Carth was besotted with her. Juhani worshipped her like a goddess of redemption. Zaalbar swore life-debt. Mission, for all of her Tarisian street smarts, was still but a child. The droids, of course, were purchased by her ill-gotten gains at a Pazaak table. And now Canderous, the man she once believed would leave as soon as a better offer came along, had marked the rest of the crew in a barbaric ritual and sworn fealty!
"You'll wear a hole in the deck, pacing like that."
Bastila stopped and sighed loudly. "Jolee, why have you come and found me?"
"Well, I was on my way back to quarters when I heard you pacing." He raised one gray eyebrow. "Got something on your mind, do you?"
Bastila thought a moment. "Just...trying to regain control."
The old man regarded her with amusement. "Hate to break it to you, but you're doing a bad job of it. Now, care to talk, or are you going to keep stewing?"
Bastila opened her mouth to say something then thought better of it. Not aloud, she sent.
Ah. Private conversation. Sure you want to do this, lass?
Bastila shook her head. It's the only way to keep secrets aboard this ship. I...do not wish the others to hear of such things.
Now Jolee was scowling. "Not to mention taking advantage of the fact some people aboard can't read or send thoughts."
She sighed in exasperation and threw up her hands. I should have come to expect this.
He laughed in a way that made Bastila want to go over and smack him, but she held her cool for the time being. "Just what is so funny?"
A mocking glint came to his eyes. Been too long since I've seen someone drive themselves crazy. I forgot how absurd it looked like.
"Jolee, I am better than that. No, I just see the crew - all of them - heading for utter ruin, and no one will see it!" She let out a huff and leaned against the bulkhead. Always her - always Kairi. I was in command of this mission, and now it's obvious that I control nothing. Bastila wrung her hands. We should have anticipated this. If nothing else, we knew of her charisma. Damn it, if only she had been aboard my escape pod when the Spire was destroyed. If only I could have kept my watch upon her...
Jolee held up his hand. You'd be buried under tons of slag like the rest of Taris. And take it from an old man - 'if only' are two words that won't do you any good. You've got to look at the present situation square on if you want it changed.
"I suppose you are right. What has happened to my control?"
"Ever try to grab a Naboo tongue eel, Bastila?"
"No, can't say as I have."
Jolee put his hands behind his back and walked the room like an instructor before a class. "Like all invertebrates, it can certainly twist out of anyone's grasp. That eel, though, has natural oils on the surface, making it that much more difficult to grab and hold on. So, the tighter one grabs, the more likely that it is to get away. But some of the natives consider it a delicacy. Just how do you think you catch one?"
"Traps, snares, evolutionary adaptations," she answered.
"Uh, uh. Now, dear, you're over-thinking it. How would you grab onto something like that?"
"I'm not certain."
"First, you don't scare it off! Move slow and easy. Let it come to you. When it's close enough, don't immediately snatch it. Go easy and steady so that it won't panic, and when you do get a hold of it, keep that grip firm, but not strangulating. That way, when it does thrash about, you're able to adjust your grip."
Bastila tapped her fingers against the top of a durasteel cargo container. "So, you propose gaining control by loosening my grip?"
"Flexibility, my dear, the ability to bend and not break when the wind changes direction. Assess what is now." He scowled. Do you believe Kairi will turn to the Dark Side?
She holds to the Light now, but unless she is brought under the Council's strict control she will eventually. She shrugged. It's inevitable.
Really? And what makes you think so?
The others! Look at them! Unruly and guided by passions. They accepted that...that barbarian's ritual without an eye blink. Not so long ago, Juhani struck down her own master - now she is here with no further guidance, still on the brink. Mission has never had proper guidance. Zaalbar has his honor code, but even that...
"Go on."
And Carth. By the Force, when he was on the Spire, he was a sensible man. He knew his place, knew the place of the crew, and never let those lines blur. Now, he's infatuated with Kairi, taken Mission as a surrogate child, and apparently has no objection to a Mandalorian now addressing him as 'brother!'
So?
Seeing Jolee neutral body language and calm acceptance threw Bastila so much that mental speech wasn't possible. "So? You demonstrated aptly that you know what kind of ticking bomb we have aboard this ship."
I don't agree with the 'ticking bomb' assessment. Not after seeing her for myself. She's not any more or less inclined to cave into the Dark Side as anyone else aboard. We see her falling, then we worry. For now, she isn't, so I won't.
Your bravado in the face of all this is admirable. I only hope it will not be fatal, Mr. Bindo.
"When I go is for the Force to decide," he said. He snickered and patted her on she shoulder. "In the meantime, don't scowl like that or your face will freeze."
Over the com, Carth's voice broke in. "Attention, everyone, we're clear to land, so get into a seat and strap in."
They were directed to Docking Bay 26-C on the west side of Ahto City's vast spaceport. As the native beings, the Selkath, were amphibious and had no need for above-water dwellings, Ahto City had been built solely as a trading outpost where air-breathers could conduct business. It did not necessarily mean they were welcome.
No sooner did they step into the docking ring then they saw a young Republic soldier and a gray-uniformed Sith Officer in mid-argument. The Republic man was flushed with rage while the Sith man laughed.
"You Republic people are so pathetic, sitting around and groveling at the table scraps the galactic senators deign to give you. It makes me sick."
"The senators work for the good of the whole galaxy," the other soldier argued. "Not for individual gain."
"Ha! Don't make me laugh, you gutless simp! It's the destiny of weak-minded fools like you to be ruled over by the strong, like we Sith."
Raising his fist, he pulled it back and made ready to remove a few teeth from his adversary. "I'm warning you, don't push me, or you'll get just what you're asking for!
The Sith laughed again. "Try it. Just try it. I'd love to see you throw the first punch. With all the cameras around, the Selkath would be all over you in seconds. You break their laws, you pay the price, Republic scum."
The Republic soldier slowly lowered his fist, huffing with obvious frustration.
"Besides, I can see you aren't man enough to back up your words anyway. If you ever feel like relieving yourself of your worthless existence, come by the Sith enclave here. We've many ways to fulfill your wish." Smirking, he turned away and vanished into the crowded port, headed for the east side.
Swearing in anger, he turned and did not watch where he was going. Unfortunately, Kairi wasn't able to dodge him in time, and the two fell to the floor.
"Hey watch -" He silenced himself when he saw Kairi's lightsaber. He didn't move until Carth offered him a hand.
"Get up, soldier," he said.
Carth helped pull him to his feet. The soldier brushed off his uniform and got a look at the full party. "I'm...I'm sorry, sir," he said to Carth. He then nodded to Kairi. "And an apology to you, Lady Jedi. I should have watched where I was going."
"Why do the Sith upset you so much?" Kairi asked. "Why was he trying to start a fight?"
"These damn Sith are everywhere on Manaan, pushing us Republic soldiers around and trying to goad us into breaking the law somewhere."
"So, the Sith and the Republic co-exist here peacefully?" Kairi amended her statement. "Well...relatively..."
"Peacefully?" The soldier chortled. "Not hardly. Just look in their eyes. You can see they'd like nothing more than to kill each and every one of us, personal-like."
"Sadly misguided..." Bastila said.
"You...you're joking right? The smug Hutt-spawn try to push us every chance they get and enjoy it!" He threw up his hands in frustration, letting out a sigh. "There's nothing we can do, though. The Selkath want to maintain their neutrality, and they enforce it very strictly. So, we've got to sit here and let them insult us and we can't raise a hand against them. If we do, the Republic faces severe kolto export restrictions, and that could lose us the war altogether."
"Why would the Sith be here, though?" Kairi asked. "Why would they not just conquer? What you describe doesn't seem to be their style."
"The Selkath think that by staying neutral they can play both sides, selling kolto to everyone that needs is and making themselves too valuable to be worth conquering." He dropped his voice. "Well, that, and they threatened to destroy the only natural source of kolto on the planet if anyone attacks them. But I think they're underestimating the lengths the Sith will go to get what they want...they're probably planning something already."
"I wouldn't doubt it," Jolee interjected. "Now, you get going to where you need to go, sonny, and try not to lose your temper on the way."
"Of course," he said. "If you've any other questions, you should probably go see Roland Wann. He's the Republic diplomat here. The embassy is on the map they give at the Docking Authority. Have a pleasant stay."
They had been requested to show up with the full party at the docking authority office. They duly disembarked and went there. The fish-like Selkath were bipedal, but their feet were broad and thin, adapted for use as flippers in the oceans. Their skins were dappled gray and green, glistening like they were wet. Their eyes were on the sides of their (seemingly) oversized heads.
Fitting the droids with a translator chip and the organic beings with earpieces, the sibilant and slurring language of the Selkath could now be fully understood. It still came out as unnerving as a nail on slate.
"Welcome to Manaan," said the port authority representative, reciting a speech he had no doubt memorized long ago. "While you are here, I trust you will follow all the rules governing to activities of off-worlders."
"Which are?" Kairi asked.
"The single most important law on Manaan is very simple. Kolto smuggling is punishable by death. If you are carrying unprocessed kolto, you had better have a permit. The other rule is also very simple - keep the peace. We Selkath do not believe violence is a solution at all. It is the province of ill-mannered children and barbarian off-worlders. Here on Manaan, we maintain careful neutrality, and we react rather harshly to people who jeopardize that status. Any confrontations between the Sith and Republic are dealt with swiftly and decisively. Is this understood?"
Mission nodded. "Kolto smuggling, bad thing. Check. Starting fights, bad thing. Check."
"Is that the only law you have, fish-head?"Canderous demonstrated his utter lack of diplomacy once more.
"I would remind you that you are guests of the Selkath - not the other way around. We also have laws against murder, theft, and other crimes. But those laws are hardly different than those of most other planets. Manaan's neutrality is closely linked to our kolto production. This is why I made special mention of the above two laws."
"We understand," said Kairi. "Thank you."
"The Manaan board of trade and tourism thanks you, off-worlder," he said brusquely. "Here is a visitor guide and map to the city. Refer to it should you have any questions."
Since Ahto City was so large, it was decided that the party should split up in order to explore it and maybe find out anything about the Star Map or any other useful information. Pairing up seemed best, so Jolee was put with Bastila. Carth and Canderous teamed up. Mission and Zaalbar were inseparable, of course. Kairi and Juhani decided they would walk together, with T3-M4 trailing in the rear like a faithful dog. HK-47 was sent back to the loading dock to guard the ship from intruders and because the droid 's bloodthirsty tendencies could cause them more trouble than they could handle.
The City itself was surprisingly beautiful, even though there was no overt ornamentation. Everything was designed for a purpose, and everything had a function. The only things marking one featureless building from another were the signs in Basic or colorful banners hanging near doors. Litter, dirt, and other debris were swept up and cleaned by unobtrusive utility droids. Security droids the size of man's fist were ever-present, their unblinking camera eyes always watching the city
The streets were a mix. Selkath conducted business or talked among themselves, giving curt brush-offs to their inquires. Gray-uniformed or plate-armored Sith passed close by knots of Republic uniforms of yellow and orange. Technicians and travelers loaded kolto (labeled clearly) into green crates, or off-loaded supplies for the city.
After several minutes of silence, Bastila cleared her throat.
"Jolee, may I have a moment? There is something I wish to speak to you about."
He laughed and shook his head at her. "Yep, I figured as much. It was only a matter of time until we had the whole 'come back to the Order' discussion," he shrugged. "Well, no avoiding it now. You might as well get it over with."
"I know you have...issues...with the Order," Bastila said. "But you are a Jedi, Jolee. You command the Force. Without the guidance of the Council, how can you avoid falling to the Dark Side?"
"Well, I've managed to avoid it the last twenty-odd years. Besides, Dark Side, Light Side: they don't mean the same thing to you as they do to me. I don't see in absolutes."
"So, you don't have a problem with Malak? Or the Sith?" Bastila crossed her arms and scowled.
"I'd like to stop Malak as much as anyone, and know too well what Sith are capable of. But I don't have to join the Order to do it. Look at Carth or Canderous...even Mission. They're with us on this quest, but they aren't Jedi."
"They've less to lose," she said.
"Really? I'm sure they'd disagree with you on that." He folded his arms. "The capacity for good and evil, like the Force itself, is in all living creatures. Belonging to the Jedi, the Sith, or any other group won't change that."
"Oh, really. This coming from someone..." her voice trailed off.
Jolee nodded. "Not saying people can't change, but it takes a lot. And it can't be through codes, Councils, or any outside source. Those can trigger it, but it has to come from within yourself."
"I can see you are quite adamant. No doubt you've had ample time to think of this during your long seclusion. I guess it was foolish of me to think I could sway your position..."
"Yeah, I'm old and stubborn. But I appreciate the effort. Just think of me as any other non-Jedi in this group. I just...use a lightsaber and Force powers..."
"Now, who's the one lying to himself?"
Jolee was thinking of a sarcastic answer when a voice attracted his attention.
"Jolee, is that you?"
He hadn't heard that voice in twenty years, but it still had the same effect. He turned around to see her, and almost rubbed his eyes in disbelief. Her hair was gray now, and she looked far more worn then he remembered, but she was still a lovely woman.
"Elora?" He took her hand in his. "Of all the people...How did you know I'd left Kashyyyk?"
"I...I didn't. I didn't even know where you disappeared! Sunry and I...well, we never really thought you were dead, but..."
"Well, I may have fallen off the map, but I'm back on it now. It's good to see you, my dear." He laughed heartily. "Now, how is Sunry? Let me guess that the old joker's never learned his lesson."
Elora's features darkened, and Jolee became concerned. "Elora, don't tell me...Is Sunry...?"
"Times...have been hard, Jolee. Age hasn't made his condition any better. He still does what he can for the Embassy, but I think they're doing him a favor more than the other way around. I worry for him."
Jolee nodded with understanding. "Well, I'm traveling with some new friends, and we'll be here for at least a few days. Perhaps I can meet you and Sunry for dinner during my stay?"
Elora brightened. "Oh, he'll be glad to know you're here. You may come tonight if you like. We're in Sector eighty, just ask a protocol droid for directions and give us a call on our comlink before heading over."
He raised her hand up, and kissed the back of it. "Consider it done. Meet you when I can."
She walked away and Bastila tapped him on the shoulder. "Sunry?"
"What? Do you think I've always been a hermit? I may not have seen Sunry in a decade or two, but that doesn't mean he's not a friend! You could call him a former...business partner of mine. Republic Merchant Marine. He was a big hero during Exar Kun's War. Not like you kids would remember those kinds of things..." he finished.
Bastila scowled. "What sort of 'business?'"
Jolee grinned. "Oh, I could tell you, but I don't think your pretty little heart could take the excitement. Come on, I know you want to catch up with Kairi and Juhani."
Walking south, Mission and Zaalbar came upon a large park that circled the southern edge of Ahto. It, too, had a utilitarian function. The vast basins and fountains regulated the water flowing around the floating city and kept parts of it from sinking during high tides. The greenery was a sample of plant life from all over the galaxy, set up as an educational exhibit for Selkath who had not seen much of land-based life.
"Such fascinating things in the galaxy that I hadn't noticed. So much had been clouded by the pain of exile. It is like my eyes have opened."
"No kidding. I think I understand now what Carth meant about there being better and worse spots than Taris. To think I once thought that place to be..." Her voice trailed off. "A lot of things weren't what I thought they were, y'know?"
Zaalbar only nodded.
"I heard you talked with Carth. Wanna tell me about it?"
"I wanted to learn more about his Republic. It seems a noble cause he fights for, one that my people may be able to aid once we have banished the last of the slaver taint. There is more than I could imagine out here, and it seems the right thing to give my people a way to know it for themselves. It may be many years before it is done, however."
"So, you and your dad are thinking of putting Kashyyyk into the Republic? Wow, heavy."
"Maybe. For now, I will try to open diplomatic ties between our peoples. It will be a long time before my people will trust any outsiders at all, but a start must be made. Just as a lone hunter can provide easy prey for a slaver, a people alone are also vulnerable. It will not happen again."
As functional as the set-up for the park was, it was also a place for recreation. Two Selkath played a game by moving smooth, polished pebbles over a marked, flat board. A group of younger Selkath tossed a ball back and forth. One of them looked over his shoulder and called to his friends, breaking apart from them.
Mission's curiosity got the best of her and she snuck closer to look. The Selkath who had left his friends was talking to a yellow-clad, humanoid figure. His face was mostly obscured by the thick shadows in this area and by a yellow helmet and facemask. She and Zaalbar ducked into the bushes. Even if she couldn't make out the words, she saw that this guy was arguing with the Selkath. Finally, resigned, the young Selkath got into the landspeeder parked behind them, the yellow man in the driver's seat as they sped off.
"I have a bad feeling about this, Mission."
"You and me both, Big Z. Come on. We'll tell that to Carth and the others. Maybe we can learn what that was about."
The Selkath authorities and their offices were clustered on the north side of the city. The banners were fewer, and the signs were plain in design, government offices apparently having no need to be eye-catching so long as they were easy to find. Juhani and Kairi were heading towards the Selkath Courts. According to a few of the spacers they ran into, the court officials also controlled access to the data archives, the Selkath believing law and knowledge to be inextricably linked.
The court clerk was pleasant enough for a Selkath, but the manner of the species was a little curt by human standards. Led to a large room full of data cards and cassettes, they took positions at terminals facing each other. All content was monitored by the Selkath clerk, which did not set Juhani at ease. Kairi seemed not to be bothered, absorbed by the scrolling data before her eyes. T3-M4 was dutifully retrieving cartridges and copying contents into its memory banks for later analysis aboard the Ebon Hawk.
"I worry about...what is the phrase...tipping one's hand' here," Juhani admitted. "The clerk could easily share what he knows with others."
"Hm?" Kairi looked up from her reading. "Oh, sorry, Juhani, I was right in the middle of a scientific report. I'll agree that we might have some danger going along with this, but we have to start our search somewhere."
"Have you or Bastila shared a vision?"
Kairi shook her head. "Not yet, and it may be my fault."
"How could it be?" Juhani asked.
Kairi sighed. "On the ship, Bastila seems to look through me. It's like she's looking for something inside me – but I couldn't tell you what she's looking for. We do our meditations and exercises together, and no matter what I do, it doesn't seem..." She shook her head, and went back to looking at the screen. "She's still keeping everyone in the crew – including me – at arm's length. All our attempts to include her, and she seems to retreat further away." Kairi leaned back in her chair.
"To give up, especially on someone in pain, does not seem like you."
Kairi studied her shoes. "She believes it to be the way of the Jedi to forsake any attachment, save that of the Order...and maybe she's right, it's just..." She turned away, back to her reading.
Juhani studied her carefully, trying not to make her feel even more uncomfortable. She was still beautiful, her aura strong and shining with the Light. Yet, Juhani knew that Kairi hadn't slept well since Kashyyyk. There were dark circles under her eyes. Of course, she wanted to give everyone the impression that she was all right, as not to worry them. Juhani also saw Kairi at exercises, putting herself through brutal, almost self-punishing rigors. Bastila had insisted these were necessary, since Kairi had the least training, and that her empathic abilities would put her in direct opposition to the Jedi ideal. So far, Juhani had said nothing. After all, the masters on Dantooine had always held her up as a paragon for others to follow. Still, Quatra often said that each Jedi should have a unique relationship to the Force. Bastila may have been a bit too eager to force Kairi into a mold that did not suit her.
Kairi's voice took Juhani off that train of thought. "Geological analysis conducted by the Selkath Science Ministry indicates that many thousands of years ago, there was more of the land above the water than there is now. Up to maybe twenty percent, it says."
"That is certainly a change from now, where there are only a few islands, the remainder of volcanic peaks, with the Selkath making their homes around them. What could have caused it?"
Kairi tapped her fingers on the table. "Well, the first Star Map Bastila, Carth and I found was guarded by a Selkath-speaking droid. That's how we knew this was one of the planets to search. And the 'Builders' that the Sand People spoke of had weapons large enough to strip a planet and turn grassland to desert. The same kind of weapons could melt polar ice caps or cause other means of flooding. The landmasses we see now could be all that remains of this planet's highest mountains and plateaus."
"An interesting theory. So, where would one propose looking for evidence of Builder presence? It must all be on the bottom of the vast oceans."
"And there's a lot of ocean to search," Kairi said.
On the other side of town, the other three discovered the "independent" quarter. It reminded Carth a bit of the "Maze" in the Upper City of Taris with its blind alleys and shabby upkeep. Home to processing plants and factories, the smells of grease and factory output blended with refuse and sea air. A brisk wind kept the air from feeling thick. Shrieking scavenger birds picked through an open refuse bin nearby. While the Sith and Republic dominated certain parts of town, this sector literally belonged to no one. Security droids were fewer, and so were Selkath. The most obvious of the hangouts was a "J"-shaped building on the far end of the sector. Two colorful banners with a mug of ale depicted on them marked it as a cantina.
Canderous looked over. "Are you thinking what I am, Republic?"
"A heavily-traveled cantina in what passes for the 'bad' part of town around here. Sounds like a good place to get a beer and the good gossip."
"My thoughts exactly." Canderous patted Carth on the back and the two of them went inside.
The cantina was clean and well lit compared to the most of the spacer watering-holes in the galaxy, but was downright shabby by the straight-laced standards of the rest of Ahto city. Strangely enough, there didn't seem to be camera droids or uniformed Selkath constables around. The only real indication that trouble would be dealt with was the weapons sensor by the door, and the armed bouncers that demanded that all patrons check their weapons at the door. There was also a large, red alert button behind the bar where a gaunt-looking example of the Selkath species was polishing glasses. Like the rest of Ahto City, uniformed Sith mixed with Republic soldiers, each giving a wary eye to the other. The other, more prominent, clientele looked like "independent contractors" – jaded mercenaries and bounty hunters counting their credits, drinking a few away, or losing them over Pazaak.
"I'll find out what kind of ale this planet has. Have fun, Republic."
Carth turned a corner, heading for the back rooms of the Cantina. A man in a Republic officer's uniform was studying an Echani mercenary. The mercenary was focused on the datapad in front of him.
"So, do we have a deal?" the officer asked.
"That's an awful lot of money," the Echani answered. "What aren't you telling me?
"The Republic is generous, and pays their mercenaries well. Nothing to be suspicious about."
Like hell, Carth thought. He'd been in the service long enough to know that mercs rarely took Republic jobs - the hours were long and the pay was far from spectacular. Of course, war could change the Republic's policy, but the war was already driving the coffers broke as is...
"Makes sense," said the Echani. "Alright, I'm in."
"Show up at the Republic Embassy tomorrow and speak to our representative there. I'm sure he'll have a task he wants you to start on right away."
The Echani bowed slightly and walked away. Carth walked right up to the officer. "So why is the Republic hiring mercenaries?"
"In case you hadn't noticed, there's a war going on. If we don't hire these mercs, the Sith will. Now, if you'll excuse me, I will have to continue my recruitments."
"I don 't know what you showed him, but I know what a Republic merc contract entails. Believe me, it doesn't pay very well."
"Oh, really? Then perhaps you would be interested in being hired, then?"
That stunned Carth for a moment. He quickly realized, though, that he hadn't worn a uniform since the Endar Spire's destruction. Dressed in armor they picked up in their travels, two heavily-modified blasters in his holsters...well, he must look like a mercenary. His curiosity won out over his wish to be forthright with the junior officer.
"Maybe," he said, doing his best imitation of Canderous. "Let's see what you've got."
The officer duly handed it over. Carth studied it and he just about choked. This was an obscene amount of credits! Hell, it could be half a senator's ransom. He studied it for any fine print or unusual clauses, finding none. He handed it back to the officer.
"That is a lot of money. But...but I don't work alone. Can I get a copy of that to look over with my partner? We'd split the money, of course."
"Of course," said the officer. "Just provide me your datapad...and there, done. Now, if you'll excuse me..."
Canderous knew that a glass of ale was a good way not to draw attention. Of course, after that embarrassing incident at Junix Nard's cantina, he was extra careful, sipping slowly and tasting for any tampering with the drink. Look like any other barfly, and one could observe the surroundings in peace.
Oh, there were plenty of mercenaries here. And the reason why was simple - Sith uniforms and Republic. They were few, but they carried datapads, and were sitting at booths, talking intently to any who would approach.
A tall, broad-shouldered man swung into the seat next to him. Canderous was about to tell him to back off when he caught a glimpse of the man's face.
"Canderous! I haven't seen you since the Republic broke our ranks at the battle of Malachor!"
He grinned, inspecting the modified rifle strapped to the man's back. "Ergeron, I see you've got some new guns to add to your collection. Times must have been profitable for you since the war."
"Very profitable." Ergeron leaned forward. "There are interesting times to be a Mandalorian. When the Republic defeated our fleets, I learned a valuable lesson: it's far better to be a freelance mercenary in a war than to be a soldier for the losing side."
"Wise," Canderous said. "Just pick your contracts well, or you'll end up cracking heads for petty crime lords."
"You made that mistake."
He nodded.
"Most people thought you were dead after we got our butts handed to us by a Jedi at Malachor."
"Not just any Jedi, my friend," Canderous said. "Lord Revan fought a worthy battle. It will be one remembered and sung about for centuries. Don't tell me you resent the Republic. We lost, they won, and it was a damn good fight."
"You know me better than that," he said. "I'm a realist, after all. And even though the Republic kicked our tails, the leaders of the armada were Revan and Malak, so I hate the Sith just as much." Ergeron sat back in the chair, and took another swig off his beer. "Now, with this war, there's plenty of opportunity to take bloody vengeance against both sides and make a nice profit along the way. What about you? Under the hire of that Republic man you walked in with?"
"I don't work for him, he's anda-tat."
Ergeron stared at him askance. "You're calling that guy 'battle-brother?'" He snickered.
"And why not? We have faced our foes together, risked and saved each other's lives." Another sip of the drink. "His head's up his rear, but he's good with his blasters. He knows how to fight. Knows how to watch his back, too. He's wasted on the Republic, but that's my opinion."
"Guess one makes a clan-hold with what they can find these days. Most of us are dead, and most of the ones who aren't embarrass the armor."
"Teja gra," Canderous said with a growl. "I know."
"I know of a bunch that got wasted on Dantooine. Judging by the desciption I heard, it was you and your anda-tat that bashed their faces in."
Canderous nodded.
A snort of contempt from Ergeron. "Those Jedi were probably too busy pissing themselves to take care of it. "
"Someone has to beat some sense into those imposters infesting the Outer Rim. To degenerate like this..." Canderous banged his fist on the counter. "We fought well; we lost to an honorable foe. And those who survived, stangran on the fallen's honor and memory." The Mandalorian vulgarity had no direct translation in Basic, but the closest was "to extinguish by urination."
"Well, if you're looking for a fight, Jagi's still alive. Still after your blood, too. Ran into him at the last stop. Probably he's heading to Korriban for the Gathering."
"The what?"
Ergeron shrugged. "What? You think you're the only guy who doesn't like seeing us circle the drain? That planet's in the middle of nowhere, and where several Lord Mandalores met their end. The remaining clan chiefs must have thought it was a good place to hold the trials."
"Good thing I'm headed to Korriban, then,"
Ergeron's eyes lit up. "You trying out for the title, then?"
"No. I just need to finish things with Jagi. He got lucky on Tattooine. He won't be so lucky next time."
Ergeron said nothing.
Canderous looked around the bar. "I've noticed the Echani prancing about, as well as a couple of those Iridorian bloodsuckers. What rocks did they crawl out from under?"
"Dunno, but they're still at their old tricks. The Echani still carry weapons too small for children, and they've still got that flimsy armor that won't slow then down when they run away." Ergeron sniffed with contempt. "Those Iridorians are worse - hacking at fallen foes even after death, mutilating the corpse out of pure bloodlust. They'll turn on each other when the battle-fever hits. Who wants to work with someone like that? Not even the Sith...not for the most part." He shrugged. "I can pretty much name my price right now, especially since the Republic is so desperate for mercs all of a sudden"
"Really? Now, this could be interesting..."
Carth walked up to Canderous and tapped him on the shoulder. "Hey. I've got something interesting, but I'm not going to blab it to the whole bar - not yet anyway."
"What is it?"
"I got approached by some Republic recruiter. You would not believe what they're paying." He produced the datapad, only to have it snatched out of his hand by Canderous.
"Let me see that, Carth." He looked it over, muttering something in his native language before handing it back. "It's a suicide mission."
"How can you tell, the amount?"
"Partly, and partly because I know not all Republic men are as honorable as you, my friend. Some of them can be downright devious."
Ergeron raised an eyebrow. "Thanks for the tip. I'll steer clear. See you around, Canderous."
He left, and Carth took the seat that Ergeron vacated. "What kind of suicide mission would the Republic be up to on a neutral world? It doesn't make sense."
"Remember the part about not all Republic men being as honorable as you are. With the Sith here as well, the calm on the surface hides a riptide below. Of course, the most direct way would be to take them up on that offer and see for ourselves."
"Unfortunately, that's not a very smart option. Maybe I'll take it to the Embassy and hope I can get an insider's look at it."
"I'd be careful, Republic. Make sure not to blindly trust their answers just because they happen to wave the same flag. Think about it - the Selkath stay neutral, and both Republic and Sith would do anything to tip the balance in their favor."
"So what do you propose we do?"
"I can't believe I'm saying this, but tread lightly and let the Jedi take the lead. Their kind is more designed for it than we are."