Hapes Spaceport

[Deleted]

"I know the Queen of Hapes passed a law doubling the funds to the library, I know that the Palace Library increased in size and content recently and some awesome books came out. Also, people tried to kill her today." Ben says as he eats his food. "And also Coruscant has a plague and has placed the planet under quarantine." He says with a shrug, "That's about all." He says.

It is silent for a minute then he laughs, "I'm kidding ladies, I'm a librarian. We have to keep up with events, we have holonet papers published and such as well as a massive holonet database."

"What exactly do you guys want to know? State of the Reconstructed Galactic Empire? State of the Galactic Alliance? The destruction of Nagi? The capture of the midget pirate? The impostor emperor? The RGE civil war? The attack on Naboo? The state of the Jedi Order?" He says reciting countless topics that people had looked up information on at the library and asked him about before.

"It's a pretty big galaxy, I'll need something more specific than political state. Summed up the Galactic Alliance wasn't doing to well since the Vong war. The desperate needs of repair and demand strained them and when Emperor Ire offered aid countless planets left the GA to join the RGE."

"Two years ago Corellia decided to leave the GA because they were unhappy about how much of their wealth the GA was using to help rebuild the galaxy. Countless talks started to keep them from leaving. They never left, and it looked like things were going good until just recently for some unknown reason the Corellian Engineering Corporation voided the contract they had made with the GA last year. Due to the massive replies it was looking like there was going to be a violent secession, but with this virus messing with the GA...well, I don't see them going to war soon."

Ben leans back as he thinks, "Uhhhh what else..." He says trying to think of more information, "The Grey Jedi Order clashed with Kuat Defenses not too long ago, though I don't have much information on that due to how recent it was."

"I think that's all the big stuff that isn't history. At the very least those are the major issues of this year." Ben shrugs, "Any questions?"

[Ithilwen]

*Ithilwen listens quietly as she starts eating, her ears perking up now and then. When he's done she stops eating and rubs her chin*

So the RGE is the big fish, the GA is in bad shape, Grey Jedi are acting all but neutral. I can't say I like these news.
Tell me more about this impostor emperor and the RGE civil war, are they related?
What about the state of the Jedi Order?
Then who destroyed Nagi and attacked Naboo? And... midget pirate? What or who was he preying on?

[Deleted]

"The Galactic Alliance is still technically bigger than the RGE, but the RGE is growing quickly and the Galactic Alliance is shrinking. This virus definitely won't help matters and if Corellia leaves the Galactic Alliance will lose a lot of power. I'm not sure much about Kuat except that someone named Kage Dook...or Dopeu or something got into a fight with the Kuat defenses, rumors say."

"The civil war and the impostor emperor were too separate matters. A former admiral of the RGE named Cook showed up with a fleet over Yaga Minor and didn't listen to any demands, request, or orders to stand down. He said that he didn't need to listen to the Imperial High Command and mocked them. The arrival of the RGE fleet and the former head of the Imperial Knights ended the battle almost instantly. The Imperial Knights captured the flag ship, but the admiral and most his fleet escaped. According to the official reports, the RGE chased the admiral to his base and defeated him in a battle. All in all, civil war is a pretty poor choice of words since it was two battles, but that's what the media called it."

"As for the impostor emperor, apparently someone took the throne and claimed to be Ire for awhile. Mind you, terminology changed in the RGE after this. Before this, Executor was the highest rank. Ire was the Executor. Anyways, so the impostor pretended to be him for awhile until the Imperial Knight's boss man, Zairon found out and confronted the impostor. The real Ire showed up and after Zairon got rid of the impostor, Ire changed his rank to Emperor and named Zairon the new Executor. Now the Imperial Knights got a new leader and Ire and Zairon run the empire with input from the High Command."

"The Jedi Order's state has come and gone. The are currently lead by Caitlin Windancer and Nick Cousland...or something like that. I can't recall the exact names, I don't follow religious organizations as much as galactic events. The Jedi haven't really been seen much. They mostly stay on Yavin IV during their whole Jedi thing. They've had minor roles in a few events, but they've not done anything on a large scale. A couple Jedi helped the RGE save Naboo, but even that was minor. Uhhhh...I think a few Jedi were on Carratos during the impostor thing. Basically, they've been around, but nothing major. Oh, and I think I read just the other day that the Chief of State requested the second in command of the order to aid on Coruscant."

"Nagi was destroyed by Executor Zairon shortly after his promotion. Some Sith Lord was killing lots of people all over the galaxy and Zairon tracked them back to Nagi where they found a large group of Sith building an army. When they refused to surrender he ordered that section of the planet bombed to nothing to make an example of them. The Sith fleet attacked and tried to stop the RGE, but even their surprise attack failed and the RGE devastated the Sith fleet. Only a handful of ships escaped and the base was bombed and destroyed leaving no survivors. After that battle, the RGE moved in and now controls Nagi, though nobody really opposes it since the RGE chased the Sith off. Nobody knows what happened to the few that escaped, though its rumored the Jedi finished them off. Unlike the RGE though, the Jedi don't file public reports and inform the galaxy of all their actions."

"Naboo was attacked by members of Black Sun when some small vigo tried to gain power by forcing the Queen to do his bidding. Unfortunately for Black Sun, the RGE found out about it and went to Naboo to stop it. The Imperial Knights, Zairon, another member of Imperial High Command, and three Jedi who happened to be on the planet defeated Black Sun and chased them off the planet before the Vigo could gain a foothold to solidify his power. He was never heard from since and rumors have it Black Sun has a new boss stepping up, but nothing is certain. It's Black Sun after all, simply rumors."

"The midget pirate issue is still going on, he apparently tried to hold a peaceful planet hostage...Muudan...mundan...uhhh what was the name..." Ben thinks, "Maridun! Yeah, he had a fleet show up over the planet, captured the peaceful population, and threatened to kill them all if the RGE didn't meet his demands. Needless to say, the RGE didn't like that and dispatched the Imperial Knights, now lead by Lady Shana. The knights captured the pirate leader, but since it just happened that's all I can tell you. Basically the media broadcast reports of the planet being held hostage and then they found out the pirates were captured when Carratos News showed the pirates being escorted into the palace. That was yesterday though, so I don't know what happened to the hostages or the pirates other than they were captured."

Ben Rider let out a deep breath, "Whew...that's a lot of information...It's tough having both super human smarts AND super human good looks."

[Ithilwen]

*Ithilwen listens to the whole 'report' with a slight frown, an eyebrow raising when Ben talks about the Jedi. She shakes slightly her head, brings the glass to her lips.... and almost spits the wine at his last remark. After coughing and laughing for a good minute she takes a deep breath and nods*

Yeah, you've proven yourself to be useful... Good job. Now we definitely have a clearer overall view.
So, Coruscant is out, I'd say Kuat as well; I don't want to go poking my nose in internal affairs, they seem to be doing pretty well by themselves.
Corellia could be interesting from what you say.. I'm curious.
Kage Dooku, huh... can't say I know him. Doesn't really look like Grey behaviour to me though. This midget pirate is just an idiot.

*She takes another sip of wine and looks at both of them*

Aside from stealing, dealing with drugs and killing I'm up for pretty much anything. Is there anything either of you wanted to do or see and never got the chance until now?
..... No touring brothels or strip clubs, Ben.

[Deleted]

Ben had opened his mouth when he heard Ithil's final comment and closed it again. He glanced over at Arya and a mischievous grin crossed his face. "No, no, I'm good. Nothing left to see or do here." He said innocently. "Well Corellia seems like the only thing on the list. Why not head there and see what we can find out!"

[Arya Vexa]

*Arya listens to Ben fill them in on the current events. She munches on her salad as she does so, not saying much. She couldn't believe how much she'd missed. She was for sure not in the mood for some political division or whatever. So she knew exactly where she wouldn't be going.

Even though she hadn't been a Jedi in years, Arya couldn't help but sigh hearing of them. She had left for exactly those reason... inactivity. Gus had taught her to stay involved and stay out there, that their work was never done... a sentiment it appeared many didn't share with her. Though seeing Ithilwen's reaction was promising that maybe not all the Jedi she had once known had gone soft. Looking to her new cohorts, she finally speaks up.*

Corellia is fine with me... Sounds like it could be interesting...

*She says, wondering what in the world got her wrapped up with these two, but yet not regretting that she had gotten tied in with them. She found it interesting, and refreshing that these two could hold her attention for more than a split second, and intended to enjoy it for however long it lasted.*

[Ithilwen]

*Ithilwen finishes her meal and leaves a credit chip enough to pay for all of them, then stands up looking at Arya.*

Well then, it's settled. I'm heading to the docks office, then I'll wait for you at the landing pad #77. Both of you will want to bring clothes and other personal stuff with you, provided it fits into a duffel bag.. something durable and comfortable.
See you in a bit. Oh, and buy some groceries.

*That said she turns and walks out, heading to the Dockmaster's office; once there she almost bumps on some guy that seemed to be running out the room like his life depended on it. As she takes another step she realizes why: either the guy bathed in garlic or he used it as office decoration. Trying not to inhale too much she nonchalantly leans on the door frame and points at the guy that just left*

Some people have the grace of a rancor in love around here...

*That being obviously the code word for the exchange she eyes the Dockmaster expectantly; the man squints in her direction for a moment, then turns back to his work.
Ithilwen facepalms: not only he had no sense of smell, he lacked some neuron too.
She clears her throat and reluctantly steps in*

I said... some people have the grace of a rancor in love around here...

*The man squints up at her again, then mutters*

How do I know it's you and not someone else posing as you?

*Ithilwen gives him the eyebrow, trying not to draw any breath*



Dude... you have that many black wolf ladies running around Hapes?

*At that he shrugs, rummages in his desk for a few very long minutes, pulls out a package and hands it to her.*

Thanks man, it's been a pleasure doing business with you ... not.

*She waves and walks quickly out of the office toward her ship. Thank the Force for Breath Control! Once there she peeks in the package and grins, then makes sure Astra has everything it needs for a long hyperspace trip. With everything checked and restocked she sits on the ramp and waits for her 'guests'.*

[Deleted]

Ben nods, "Yeah, I'll be there in a bit." He said as Ithilwen left. "Sooooooo pretty lady, its just you and me." He said flashing the swoon cannon. "Need any help getting ready to go?"

[Arya Vexa]

*Arya smiles at Ithilwen and nods.*

Alright. It won't take me too long to pack, just a matter of grabbing a few things. My ship has "Trouble" on board with a slave circuit, so I can have him meet us once we figure out where exactly and what not. See you shortly!

*She says, waving to her.*

Oh! And thanks for the meal!

*She calls out, once she realizes that the wolf had covered all their meals. Hearing Ben, she chuckles.*

Ya know... you're kinda cute once you get past all that superficiality you exude...

*She says with a smirk, then shrugs, giving Ben a smile.*

Why don't we just stick together... We can go by my place first, or yours if you prefer, then the other and meet Ithilwen back at the Docks. That way we're both in good company. That work for you?

*She asks, giving an alluring glance. She wasn't really sure about what she thought of Ben, but she definitely enjoyed his company, and she figured if they stuck together, she could hurry him along, and keep him on track, even though she'd never admit to having that as some sort of alterior motive.*

C'mon Ben, the Fluffy girl's waiting... and I'm not one to leave a chick with fangs hanging for too long...

*She says with a smirk, standing and moving towards the door.*

[Deleted]

"Wait...did you just basically ask me, my place or yours?" He asked raising an eyebrow. "Uhhh, well I'm way over in the palace district, so it might be better to head to your place first." He said following her to the door. As he arrived at the door he quickly stepped ahead and opened the door, holding it for Arya. "Ladies first."

[Arya Vexa]

*Arya laughs.*

In a round about way I guess I did... but don't get any bright ideas Ben Rider...

*As he holds the door, she steps through.*

Thanks!

*She says, holding back and waiting for him. Then starting towards her house with him, she works to carry on a conversation.*

How did I go from making a snide remark at you, to being you two's travel companion? We definitely will make a motley crew...

*She says with a wink, rounding the corner, and motioning to smaller, but very nice apartment building just ahead of them.*

My apartments just ahead there... and there's a market not far from here on the way to the Palace District where we can pick up a few rations and what not... Like Ithilwen said, we'll need groceries...

[Deleted]

"It was probably my charming good looks and roguish smile that convinced you." Ben said jokingly. "Not many can resist the legendary Ben Rider." He teased. "Works for me, we'll stop be the market, grab food, then swing by the palace and grab my stuff." Ben said as he approached the apartment. "Uhhh, you want me to wait outside?" He asked trying to be polite.

[Arya Vexa]

*Arya laughs.*

You're certainly something else, Ben Rider... something else indeed...

*She says, glancing back over her shoulder at him as she swipes the entry key to her apartment.*

As long as you promise to be a good boy, you're welcome inside... I appreciate the kind gesture though...

*Turning back, she waits for the door to open, and then steps inside, ushering Ben inside. The apartment is lavishly furnished, though not nearly as lavish as some on the Consortium were, and not nearly as dark and moody as one would expect a dark sider's abode to be. Rather it was filled with shades of blue and navy, quite modern, and had an amazing view of the surroundings. *

Make yourself comfortable...

*She says, with a half smile.*

I'll be packed in a jiffy...

*With that, she headed on into her bedroom, and dug a bag out of her closet, and began to pack. Arya chose to pack a back pack rather than a duffle, figuring she could easier carry it like that. She packed her typical things. Jeans, tank tops, jackets, and her favorite flight suits. Two of them. She also made it a point to pack a few other specifics she never left home without. Folding everything just so, she calls out to Ben.*

Almost ready... Just wanna go ahead and change...

[Deleted]

Ben Rider entered and looked around as he waited. When he heard Arya call out from the other room he called back jokingly, "Oh boy, can I watch!" He said teasingly as he stayed by the window and looked out over the city.

[Arya Vexa]

*Arya laughs.*

You wish Ben Rider, you wish...

*Arya jokes, quickly getting changed. Dressed in a fresh pair of low rise jeans, a purple cami, and a black form fitted jacket, Arya brushes out her long raven locks, tucking the brush into her bag and then laces up her boots. Giving herself a once over, to make sure her appearance is up to the standards any decent person would set for themselves, she smiles.*

Not half bad Vexa...

*She whispers to herself, before attaching her weapons belt and picking up her bag, heading out to meet Ben.*

Alright, Im ready now...

*She says, throwing the bag onto her shoulder.*

Shall we head on to the market?

*She asks, wiping a wisp of the hair cascading down her back and shoulders from her face.*

[Deleted]

"Not gonna lie, I do wish. But alas, I guess its not to be. I used all my luck surviving the day and will have to hope for more luck tomorrow."

"I suppose heading to the market would be a good idea." Ben says with a nod, "Lead the way, beautiful one."

[Arya Vexa]

*Arya winks at Ben.*

Who knows... you might still have some luck for today...

*She teases, then heads out the door, sealing it behind Ben. She heads down to the street level, and towards the market. Continuing her conversation with Ben.*

If we're going to be spending so much time with each other, perhaps we should get to know more about each other than just our names, eh?

*She says, as they round the corner at the Market.*

[Deleted]

"Well, I used to work at the palace in the library, I overheard about an assassination attempt, assassins tried to kill me, the Ithilwen Jedi saved me, and I'm leaving Hapes cause during the fight I got a cut which is going to scar cause of how bad it is." He says pointing at the bandage on his neck that his collar is mostly covering.

"So I figured I'd leave the planet and then well, you showed up and you know most the things other than that. Any questions?" Ben asked as he browsed the market occasionally handing over money to buy things.

[Arya Vexa]

*Arya motions to the cut on his neck.*

You realize I was a healer in my Jedi days, and could possibly make that better enough not to scar you, right? Well... at least not as badly...

*She asks with a smile, as she browses things through the market, paying for her groceries as she listens to his tale.*

No, not really... I'm not big on asking questions... at least not most of the time...

*As they finish up shopping, she glances in the direction of the Palace District.*

Your turn to pack, sir.

*She says, motioning her arm in that direction.*

Lead the way...

[Deleted]

"And how does this healing work? You gonna get in a nurses outfit and rub your hands all over my body?" He asked with a teasing smirk as he headed towards his house.

"That one over there." He said pointing at a fancy apartment complex that the palace provided for various members who worked there. Though it was an apartment complex, each apartment looked ridiculously nice.

Ben walked over to the turbolift and called it to the ground floor. As it opened he motioned for Arya to enter first, "So what about yourself? Got any awesome stories?" He asked as he pressed the button to send it to the fourth floor.