|
|
Post by Takeda on Jul 4, 2011 12:54:40 GMT -5
Takeda looks at her curiously.
"So it is where the spacers and bounty-hunters congregate to find possible employment opportunities... In short is it a cantina full of, a cantina's usual patrons...."
He turns to one of the Imperial troops.
"Order a full squad from the prison. Have them bring all the warrant sheets for this sector... I have a feeling the Commandant of the Prison will be able to make a large dent in his backlog of outstanding warrants this evening."
As he turns back to look at the building, he notices a pair of women come out of the building next door to the "Guild" they are dressed in the native style. He is not up on the tribal indicators of the Witches, but he notes there is enough of a difference to indicate they are not likely to be Nightsisters.
"Vilya, do you know those two, or can you determine what tribe they are of? I wish to speak with them."
He turns to the remaining guards, that dismounted from the speeders,
"Attend to Lady Cilla, I will be along shortly."
|
|
|
|
Post by Ywalme Burz on Jul 4, 2011 14:34:50 GMT -5
Vilya looks surprised at the question. Because of her status as a slave/hostage to the Nightsisters she has been somewhat isolated from the realities and some of the activities of such establishments like the Adventurers Guild. Though she is slightly appalled at the thought of some innocents may be arrested by the Imperials from the prison in her mind she equates them with Gethzerion and her Nightsister's evil. But nothing of it shows on her face as she answers softly.
Not to my knowledge, My Lord, but then I haven't been here since I was a child with my mother and our Clan.
Vilya has noticed the two Clanswomen before Takeda and her eyes brighten she does indeed know them though not of her Clan they are of Clans allied with the Singing Mountain Clan. She shifts her bag onto her shoulder and gives them a hand signal to get their attention. They are looking at her and Takeda's group when he notices them and he asks.
Yes, My Lord, I know them or rather their Clans. The one on the right is of the Dreaming River Clan. You can tell by her headdress only that Clan wears such. She points politely with her chin at the elaborate headdress of the woman.
The other is of the Red Hills Clan. You can tell by her face tattoo. She adds as an afterthought. The Red Mountain Clan is known for the high percentage of men in their Clan.
Both are allies of the Singing Mountain Clan. They are both Clan leaders you can tell by the carving on the weapons they carry.
As she speaks a man with a Red Hills tattoo and two more women dressed differently than the others join the two Clanswomen at the entrance of the building, a hotel reseverved for the Clans when they came to Aurilia newly built a few years ago. She recognizes the two women as one belonging to The Frenzied River Clan and the other her own Clan, the Singing Mountain Clan. And not just any member of the Singing Mountain Clan, but Clansister Damaya. Which means her Great grandmother, grandmother and mother must be here as well and that thought brings a smile to Vilya's face.
I will introduce you, My Lord. She walks a short distance then stops and waits for him to join her before proceeding forward toward the Clanswomen. She makes a gesture of peace to them as she waits.
|
|
|
|
Post by Takeda on Jul 4, 2011 14:48:09 GMT -5
As Takeda walks over he sees Vilya stop and make some sort of signal, he likewise stops and waits for a moment then procceeds closer to a more normal conversational distance and waits for Vilya to do the introductions.
|
|
|
|
Post by Ywalme Burz on Jul 4, 2011 15:49:46 GMT -5
Before they get within hearing distance Vilya explains what the sign she did means.
My Lord, the gesture I made to them means we come in peace and only wish to talk and we don't mean them or their Clans any harm or injury.
When they get near the Clan members she stops and bows with a flick of her hand at the forehead in respect to the Leaders. Just as she is about to speak and make the introductions Damaya says in surprise.
Vilya? What are you doing here? How did you get free of the Nightsisters? And who is your friend?
She comes forward and hugs Vilya happily. We thought we would never see you again. Vilya returns her hug and steps back to do the formal introductions.
Sister Damaya. This is Lord Takeda. He freed me from the Nightsisters and wishes to speak to all the Clan leaders of Dathomir.
Lord Takeda, This Clansister Damaya, that I spoke of before to you. She is member of the Council of our Clan and history and record keeper since Mother Rell's death.
Damaya looks at Takeda curiously and a smile crosses her face as she remembers what she heard about him from his friend and the stir this will make among the Clans. A Kwa. Here on Dathomir. That I lived to see this day. She thinks but she only says. Then you are doubly welcome in our Clan, Lord Takeda and our thanks for rescuing our sister. Her family has been worried about her safety. We owe you not only our gratitude and thanks but a boon. If it is within our power we will grant it you have only to ask.
The Other Clan leaders join them and Vilya makes similar introductions to them. She waits to see what will happen next.
After the introductions Damaya moves and a lightsaber can be seen attached to her belt even though she also carries a Dathomir weapon in her hand. She is one of the many Jedi that have been trained from the Clans and one of the few that has returned to share her knowledge with her people.
She then passes along a message she had just recieved before coming to Aurilia from a certain Jedi friend of Takeda's on Bakura. She says.
There is someone who will be happy to hear that you arrived on Dathomir safely, Lord Takeda. And I give you greetings and a message from Mistress Rinceoir Gaoithe(Windancer) Damaya as per her instructions gives Cait's name in the ancient language that Takeda will recognize but no one else will as a sign it a true message from her.
She said to tell you to contact your friends more often so they don't worry about you. She will be on Bakura for awhile you can reach her there. She hopes you and Ayu'lesh are doing well. She has heard from Gin and he is doing alright for now. He sent Tenkai to stay with her for awhile. Tenkai needs time and attention to adjust than Gin can give him. He needs family.
Vilya looks at Damaya confused she has never heard of a Mistress Rinceoir Gaoithe before and doesn't recognize even the language. Lord Takeda knows someone from the Clans already? Who is she? And why is she sending Lord Takeda messages? From the respectful tone in Sister Damaya's voice it is someone important.
|
|
|
|
Post by Takeda on Jul 5, 2011 16:26:38 GMT -5
Takeda bows as he is introduced letting Vilya do the explanations, and attend to her friends questions.
Your open welcome is most appreciated, it will make this coming period of transition beneficial to your people. As to rescuing her, it was not so much a rescue as a reminder to the Nightsisters of the proper order of things. Something it seems that they had well forgotten."
Takeda listens quietly to what Damaya says, this may cause a bit of a predicament. How much has Caitlin spoken of him and to whom? Time will reveal, it will be curious to see what Cilla's reaction will be in the future.
"I thank you for delivering the message, it is a surprise to have received it here from you. My purpose on this trip is not however for pleasure, but as an official for the Empire, and that is why I had Vilya here approach you."
He looks to all of them in turn to indicate that what he says next is to them all and to their respective clans.
"The Empire requests the presence of the leaders of all here in Aurilia tomorrow at 3 and one half hours after sunrise. It has come to the attention of the Empire that the situation of the people of Dathomir has been too long unheard and uncorrected. Tomorrow morning these oversights will be redressed, and that all have a proper voice with which to speak and represent themselves to the Empire. If each of you would do the Empire and your Clans the honor of informing your clan-leaders, and ensure this message spreads to all peoples neighboring to yours."
He watches carefully at the reactions, the Nightsister reaction was to be expected, but even Vilya did not appear to be trustful of the Empire, for sound reasoning after reading of the more recent history of this planet.
|
|
|
|
Post by Ywalme Burz on Jul 6, 2011 0:31:46 GMT -5
[/color][/i]
The Clan leaders exchange looks of confusion at his words. Damaya steps into the silence and says.
We are always open to something that will benefit our people but what transistion is it do you speak of? If you had to deal with the Nightsisters you have my sympathy. They are not known for their good manners or good sense. Even as a child Morathi was constantly being corrected for being rude and it seems she hasn't out grown it. But it speaks well of both your courage and strength that you not only survived but bested them.
At the mention of the Nightsisters one of the Red Hills Clan mutters. Those Kodashi vipers.
You are welcome. She asked me if I would give you what aid I could while you are on Dathomir as a special favor to her. She has told me much of you and it has made me anxious to meet you. But meeting you here like this was bit of a surprise to me as well. And bringing this one home again as well. She puts an arm around Vilya's shoulders and gives her another hug. Though with the Force I probably shouldn't be. She lightly touches the hilt of her lightsaber and smiles. At the mention of the Empire she frowns and shakes her head. She says.
The only ones who have had dealings with the Imperials and their prison are the Nightsisters.
The Clans have always avoided them and their ilk as much as possible, whenever possible. Says the Frenized River Clanleader.
They don't have a good reputation among the Clans both because of the Nightsisters and the actions of their last Warlord. Says the male Red Hills Clansleader.
They tried to enslave my Clan. Says the Dreaming River Clanleader with a frown.
Damaya gestures to the others for them to be silent and says to Takeda. Do not misunderstand, Lord Takeda, we will do as you requested and let the other Clans know of the meeting. We are just wary of the intentions of the Imperials because in the past they were not always honorable. But that was in the time of the former Emperor Palatine and not this Emperor. We will listen to what you have to say and carefully consider your words. And try not to let the past color the present and keep open minds. If this will truly benefit us and Dathomir we will be open to it.
The other clanleaders look at each other then nod in agreement. We too will do that. We will be there and let the others know. If you will excuse us we go do that now. Says the Frenzied River Clanleader. She bows and leaves. She is followed by the others except for Vilya and Damaya.
Damaya says to Vilya. Child will you let your great-grandmother know what is going on? She is in room 5.
Vilya looks at Takeda for permission before she leaves.
|
|
|
|
Post by Takeda on Jul 6, 2011 2:01:58 GMT -5
Takeda nods a bow to Damaya and her explanation,
"Excellent, the Imperial Envoy and I will look forward to discussing with your leaders in the morning. I think your people will have their eyes opened tomorrow, and much to their benefit."
He looks down to Vilya,
"Go, you are not a slave any longer, I do with to discuss with you more later tonight, but take until past sundown, let your family and friends know you live and are free to choose for yourself your life."
Takeda looks over at an approaching noise about the time as two Imperial transports turn the corner onto the street, coming up slowly before unloading a fully armed squad of stormtroopers and a pair of officers get out.
He nods a bow to the contingent of witches,
"If you will excuse me, I have another matter that needs addressing."
He turns on his heel and walks over to the Imperials, they too seem not all-together happy to see him, and less so when he is standing right in front of him. One of the officers visibly pales at his approach. After a few moments of discussion, the officers seem even more nervous, but the squad leaders seem a bit more relaxed as Takeda talks to each in turn and passes around a data-tablet that the officers brought with them and handed to Takeda as he spoke with them first.
After a few moments, One of the unhelmeted squad leaders grins wildly and cracks his knuckles with gusto before pulling his helmet from his belt and turning back to his squad. Weapons are drawn and two groups head down the sides of the Adventurer's Guildhall while the remaining squad forms up at the front door. Takeda stands a midst them, and the large doors are flung open form the inside and people start rushing out in confusion and panic.
All of the people are caught and escorted off to the side, they are handled firmly and certainly with no gentleness, but not rudely either, once to the side and away from the doors, they are checked for weapons which are confiscated, and then sat on the walkway and watched over.
After the brief flood of people come out, a couple of voices can be heard yelling threats from inside the hall. An officer checks the datapad and then speaks into his com, this process goes on for a few minutes and a stormtrooper goes up and relays information to Takeda who nods in reply and gestures something back. A few shots ring out, and a stray bolt comes out through the doorway but does not hit anyone. An officer steps forward, calling out a list of names and demanding immediate surrender for crimes against the Empire. A curse is uttered from inside and another salvo of bolts is heard the rounds get close enough that a few make it outside the door, but the officer was quick enough to have pulled his head back out of the way.
Takeda flips his robe back over his right shoulder, revealing the his dark armored body on that side. On his hip is a large pistol and he places his hand on it and advances forward and in through the open doors.
There is another burst of sound of blasters discharging as well as a tremendous amount of screaming and yelling and general chaos. There is another sound, the sound of a small thnderclap, a slug-thrower going off. The sounds of yelling die down rapidly, and after a pause, More troopers rush in through the doors, and Takeda exits a moment later holstering his pistol while examining several holes in his robe.
The Squadleader from earlier comes out, his helmet already off, and his face quite full with his grin. A few people are escorted out, searched and sat on the side; and several others are dragged out in binders. It looks to be a fairly unsavory lot, including two Nightsisters who look a bit roughed up. Several other people acre carried out, victims of stun rounds. One person is carried out covered in a sheet.
It does not take very long for the wrap up to happen and the story to get out.
The people set to the side, most of them are given back their belongings their names recorded and released with an apology. Some at first were nervous why the Imperials wan their names and identities, but being told it is so they are not mistaken for criminals but acknowledged as citizens, they look more bewildered than worried. Several are to be put up in one of the hotels with a guard, they turned out to be long term slaves, and are not able to immediately grasp their freedom. Their clans and families will be notified, two of them cannot even recall where they are from, they have been in slavery since childhood. Only a couple of the individuals that fled the initial group are held for questioning, those that are local are found to have been doing "questionable" things but are given a verbal warning. The Outsiders that are questionable are escorted to their ships and told to depart Imperial space. The end result of the little operation is 6 persons arrested for existing warrants of varying severity, all of which had been issued for criminal activity off of Dathomir. And 4 individuals arrested for slave trading, caught red-handed. Only one of these individuals was a "native" of Dathomir, an outcast who had not even sought out the Nightsisters but preyed on the various tribes for stock to export off-world. There was only 1 fatality, Carn Hazzon, a hired gun, with warrants from both the Imperials and the Alliance, as well as a dead or alive bounty on his head. In the end, he chose to commit suicide before he could be taken alive.
*postscript*
Forever after, what Takeda did when he went in there is subject to much debate.
One account states he apparently went into a withering hail of blaster-fire and gunned down all of the bad-guys...
Another story is he went in and calmly shot Carn in the head, everyone else surrendered after that...
Then there is the story told by a certain grinning sergeant: "The Imperial Envoy walked in, and immediately dove behind the nearest heavy object; the criminals having seen him and decided all of them ignoring the storm troopers and firing on the 9 foot tall "thing" being the best idea. We stunned the rest of them while they was distracted, but Carn dove over a counter, grabbed another weapon, but when he realized it was one of them goofy slug-throwers, he decided to take the easy way out."
This last account is often credited as the least authentic, however the sergeant has never known to have had to pay his bar-tab from then on.
|
|
|
|
Post by Ywalme Burz on Jul 6, 2011 21:43:29 GMT -5
We as well look forward to hearing what you have to say. She smiles and says. That remains to be seen but we hope that will be so for us all.
Vilya to Takeda. Yes, My Lord, I know but it is only polite to wait for your permission to go in case you still had need of me for something. Yes, My Lord, where do you want me to go for that discussion? Here? Or at your hotel? She waits for his answer then says. I will, My Lord. She bows and gives the respectful forehead flick salute to Takeda. She then goes into the hotel in search of her great-grandmother, grandmother and mother. When she reaches her great-grandmother's room the surprise and joy that greets her when they see her on the other side of the door bodes well for the acceptance of Takeda's proposals.
Damaya and the other witches nod. Damaya says. Of course, Lord Takeda. If you have need to talk to me or have any questions I'm in room 7. Damaya and the other Clanleaders re-enter the hotel to contact the leaders of the other Clans that are all staying at the hotel. The only Clan not represented here is the Spider Clan of the Nightsisters.
In the middle of the impromptu meeting caused by the news of Takeda's meeting and proposed benefit to their Clans the commotion caused by the events in the Adventurer's Guild attracts their attention. The members and leaders of the Clans pour out of the hotel to see what is going on.
Vilya stands in the midst of her family between her mother and grandmother. Vilya's mother has her arm around her daughter's shoulder hugging her close. Damaya stands calmly to the right of Augwynne Djo, leader of the Singing Mountain Clan and Vilya's great-grandmother. On Augwynne's other side is one of the few male members that is now part of the Clan's grand Council. They shake their heads both surprised and impressed by the swiftness of the actions of the stormtroopers and Takeda. Though some of them are somewhat apprehensive what this might mean for them tomorrow.
|
|
|
|
Post by Takeda on Jul 6, 2011 23:41:30 GMT -5
It does not take very long for the people to get released and the soldiers to pack the prisoners up and escort the Outsiders to the spaceport and ensure they depart. Takeda stands by the officers discussing and reviewing the warrants, making sure the paperwork is not being mis-managed or made to fit someone's personal agenda. They will be taken to the prison and the Imperial Magistrate will conduct the detainments or releases as needed from there. All he can hope is that the higher level of the Imperials are not corrupt or slothfully complacent.
As the officers and troops load up and depart, he notices he is being watched by some of the Clan-members he spoke with earlier. He heads over in their direction, pausing before them as they are trying to decide what is happened is good or bad.
"Some of you look a bit apprehensive... Is it for a reason I should be concerned about, or just bad memories of a bygone era?"
Takeda looks back at the Guild-Hall while they ponder that, himself considering what things need to be arranged for tomorrow to provide the proper setting.... A couple of big honking chairs for starters... he thinks to himself.
|
|
|
|
Post by Ywalme Burz on Jul 7, 2011 0:36:10 GMT -5
The Clan members exchange glances and the older woman next to Vilya, her grandmother Barukka, former Nigthsister but now redeemed, steps forward. Bad memories, Lord Takeda. Too many of our Clans have been attacked and have lost members in the past to Imperial and other enslavememt operations. Anything that involves the Imperials make us apprehensive as they have shown us in the past that they can't be wholly trusted. We don't wish to be enslaved or worse by them or anyone else. She looks down at her granddaughter who she thought she would never see again and hugs her. This one was abducted by slavers in such a raid. We have you to thank for her safe return. We only wish to be treated fairly, Lord Takeda.
Uncertainy makes for apprehension, Lord Takeda. Sister Damaya says that you wish to discuss that will benefit our people and that you are an honorable person. That these Imperials will treat us fairly. If you say that we have nothing to be apprehensive about we will trust that to be the truth until you show us otherwise.
|
|
|
|
Post by Emperor Ire on Jul 7, 2011 18:40:43 GMT -5
Cilla didn't witness any of the conversations Takeda had with the other witches, the Imperial Envoy went to her room to immediately take a proper shower and have her gown cleaned to remove the stench of the stronghold. Her stormtrooper detachment stands guard outside the 'presidential suite', a simple room with a private bed area, some nice native plants and flowers and sandpainting of the Singing mountains, there's nothing presidential about the room when you get down to it other than its probably the nicest room this place has. She washes up and awaits room service to grab her gown. Cilla takes the time to start compling an initial report for the Emperor, mentioning Morathi, Takeda and the township Aurillia, and rests in a complimentary silk robe as she does so.
|
|
|
|
Post by Takeda on Jul 7, 2011 20:28:30 GMT -5
Takeda nods, "That is understandable, there is a long history of abuses here."
"The leaders of the Clans will be addressed in the morning, correct. The Empire, unlike its predecessor under Palpatine understands the true value and power of its citizens, and how protecting instead of preying upon them is a greater force than any Superweapon.
Now if you will excuse me, there are final matters I must see to before then end of the evening, good day to you all."
Takeda spends the better part of the evening traveling around to the small shops in town and making the needed arrangements for the his plans for the rest of the evening and tomorrow.
|
|
|
|
Post by Ywalme Burz on Jul 7, 2011 21:41:33 GMT -5
Indeed, that is so. She inclines her head in agreement to his statement. Regrettably off-worlders are not the only ones that done so. She looks down a moment and a look of sorrow crosses her face. We too have not always done what we should in the regards to the rights of others and their enslavement. She looks back up. Though we have taken steps in recent years to correct those long standing abuses.The Clans no longer condone the practice of having or owing slaves. We all now stand free and equal in our rights and responsiblities to our Clan and our people, young and old, male and female. They all now have a voice in what the Clan does and there are now men that sit in Council and hold postions of leadership and responsibilty.
At least in our Clan, The Singing Mountain Clan, they do. Most if not all of the other Clans have seen the wisdom in this and have also decided to follow this course of action.
She nods. We will be there and will listen with open hearts and minds to what you will say. If that is true we will welcome it. Of course, Lord Takeda. Good evening to you as well. And may the Ancient Ones guide and guard you until we meet again. She bows and then walks back into the hotel followed by the other members of her Clan. Vilya briefly talks to Takeda before he walks away to see if he still wants her to come and talk to him then follows her Clan into the hotel.
The other Clans go back into the hotel discusiing what they just saw and heard. They plan and prepare for the meeting on the morrow before settling down for the night. Messages have sent to those who should be there but have not yet arrived about the meeting and urge their attendance and speedily arrival.
|
|
|
|
Post by Takeda on Jul 7, 2011 22:14:22 GMT -5
The rest of the evening for Takeda is busy but productive, his tasks finally accomplished late in the evening, he departs for a room and catches a few hours sleep.
In the morning, hours before they are scheduled to meet with the representatives of the clans and others, Takeda heads back across the street to the Hotel and proceeds to Cilla's room and knocks once upon the door.
|
|
|
|
Post by Emperor Ire on Jul 7, 2011 23:06:14 GMT -5
Happy to wake up the next morning to find her gown clean and ready to wear, she dresses just in time to hear Takeda's knocking and goes to answer. As the door slides, Cilla smiles. "Good morning Sir Takeda, I hope you're ready for the day ahead. Please come in."
Cilla turns and walks towards the night stand to fetch her bracelets and put them on.
|
|
|
|
Post by Takeda on Jul 7, 2011 23:11:39 GMT -5
Takeda enters the room, looks around critically,
"Good morning... If this is the best room in the hotel, it is a good thing I made other arrangements. You will probably want to transfer there later in the day. But first, let me show you what I have arranged and if it is suitable."
After she gathers her things, he turns and opens the door for her to make the trip downstairs and across the street.
|
|
|
|
Post by Emperor Ire on Jul 7, 2011 23:41:47 GMT -5
"Go right ahead." Cilla says as she walks into the bathroom to do add the finishing touches to her get up and uses the time Takeda is talking wisely, from the bathroom she hollars."I hope our plans include exploring the reason for your visit here."
After a few minutes Cilla finishes up and exits the bathroom, she heads towards the door to leave knowing that Takeda will be close behind. Though she doesn't know where to go, she lets the Force guide her to where she needs to be just as Ire taught her.
|
|
|
|
Post by Takeda on Jul 8, 2011 0:18:35 GMT -5
As Cilla speaks from the other room,
"Indeed, that will come to fruition soon enough. It is more important that these witches and the other scattered peoples be brought under control first. Do you wish to go wandering around in the wilderness out there without them having loyalty to the Empire either out of joy or fear?"
After she finishes and they head out with the guards she had assigned to her, they exit out into the street, and as they do so; banners, local made but serviceable descend from the edges of the roofline of the Guildhall, there is no mistaking the red banner with white stripe and the Imperial symbol. As they walk across the street, the staff of the former guildhall open the doors, and inside, through the inner set of doors, in the main "hall" of the structure she can see it has been freshly cleaned and prepared, the stage turned into a multi-level platform and the hall hung with both Imperial banners but the banner that represents Aurilia. The most noticeable feature is three chairs, one on the highest level of the platform, the other two on the level below it. Two of the chairs, the one at the top and one of the others are massive, a size suitable for Takeda, the other is certainly a sturdy chair but human sized, but it sits upon a separate platform beneath it so a human sitting in it is not significantly shorter or less imposing than the person in the opposite chair. The main part of the room has scattered chairs of various quality as well as benches behind set so there is a clear center isle.
Takeda continues on walking down the isle, gesturing to her human sized chair and awaiting for her to begin to ascend to it first.
"Before you ask; no, I was not trying to be subtle. Does it meet with your approval for today? I realize it still needs work."
|
|
|
|
Post by Emperor Ire on Jul 8, 2011 0:29:37 GMT -5
"I forgot I had to be diplomatic today, so much for exploring." Cilla says with a coyness about her as she looks at how things are set up. She takes note of her place and nods her head. "This is acceptable, when can we expect our guests?"
|
|
|
|
Post by Takeda on Jul 8, 2011 0:42:29 GMT -5
After she looks it over and settles, Takeda moves over to take his seat himself.
"They are scheduled to arrive in a half hour, but I am sure they wake up with the dawn and will likely be arriving ahead of schedule. The moment the banners dropped on the outside, I noticed a few people take notice and then suddenly remember they had to be somewhere in a hurry. You may wish to order a larger detail from the prisonas well as the transport ship for Morathi standing by... By noon I am sure half the town will want to get in the door, and Morathi will likely no longer want to stay on Dathomir by 10:15."
As they wait, what remains of the staff of the guildhall, and what few suitable people he was able to find and poach from the other businesses nearby, make last minute adjustments, and bring light snacks and drinks to Cilla and Takeda, as well as a quick and impromptu breakfast for the stormtroopers. It is not fancy foods, but it is good. Takeda checked the facilities and met with all of the staff of the former guildhall the previous night, dismissed those unsuitable, which was most of the bunch, and kept those that were skilled and actually cared about the jobs they did.
|
|
