[STORY] Koros Major

[DarthVerus]

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Koros Major​

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For general information of Koros Major, read here!​

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20000 BBY, 20th day of the 1st month​

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Koros Major is a burgeoning cultural and economic hub in the Core Worlds—and among the last major systems to remain neutral in the war now shaking the center of the galaxy. Koros Major is a world of shining cities, thriving trade hubs, and a rich artistic heritage of times ancient when humans still travelled in sleeper ships. Its capital city, Cinnagar, is a bustling metropolis filled with towering spires, sprawling markets and ancient monuments.

However, although the Korosi Empire isn’t part of the war on paper—their close proximity to it almost makes them belligerent. The empire is small, merely encompassing the Koros Sector. However, its value in trade almost equals that of Coruscant itself. Korosi court itself knows that it’s a crucial prize for both the Corellian Dominion and the Corustanti Alliance of Free Worlds due to its proximity to major hyperspace lanes and its symbolic importance as a center of commerce and culture. The ruling elite are wary of fully committing to either the Coruscanti Alliance or the Corellian Dominion. They value trade and independence above all, but the pressure is mounting from both sides. Emperor Koros the Third is certainly an astute political figure, holding court with diplomats and envoys while covertly advancing his own agenda. An agenda no one is yet aware of.​

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Points of Interest​

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1. The Imperial Court: A grand palace where diplomatic negotiations take place. It has stood at the center of the Cinnagar City for two-thousand years, since the establishment of the Korosi Empire.
2. The Grand Bazaar: A chaotic, colorful market district filled with opportunities for information-gathering, smuggling, and the occasional duel. It is located at the center of the Cinnagar City.
3. The Dai Bendu Sanctuary: A secluded monastery on the outskirts of the city, where the monks once studied the Force. Now abandoned, the sanctuary has been desecrated by the Knights of Bogan.
4. The Undercity: A labyrinth of tunnels and forgotten chambers beneath Cinnagar, ripe for covert operations and secret meetings.
5. The Fortress of the Knights of Bogan: An ancient stronghold outside the city that once served as an outpost of the Jedi. It is now heavily fortified and brimming with dark energy, infested by the presence of the Knights of Bogan.
   

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[DarthVerus]

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A long time ago, in a galaxy far, far away…​

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Huyang, the Professor​

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20000 BBY, Koros Major, dusk, the Mission to Save a Monk!​

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Huyang had served the Jedi Order for two-hundred generations already at this point, or rather five thousand years—and was instrumental in crafting the first and famous lightsabers that have now become the trademark weapons of the Jedi. Ever since, he has guided and taught thousands of Jedi Knights how to build and wield their lightsabers, with that being his main task within the Order. No one truly knows anymore where Huyang came from or how he’d begin his servitude with the Jedi, but a certain legend claims that he arrived on Ahch-To contained in a blue box and informed of his willingness to serve. Now thst storied and colorful history was once more at risk as he had to accompany one of the most promising Jedi in the order—Jeh’Kant Kai.

He’d known Jeh’Kant since he was a mere child and was with him when he first traversed to Ilum to obtain his kyber crystal. And now, he was on a mission to save a Dai Bendu monk from the hands of evil Force wielders who outnumber them quite vastly, more than likely. Sounds like something a Mark IV Architect Droid wouldn’t do, but nonetheless, here he was. The Jedi Council had tasked Jeh’Kant to infiltrate a fortress now belonging to the Knights of Bogan and rescue a Dai Bendu monk holding crucial information, something the council got aware of only very recently. The Korosi didn’t care about their presence or the conflict between the Knights of Bogan and the Jedi, or Dai Bendu in that regard. They were neutral and aligned with none of the orders, and considered their properties to be outside of their juridical plane. That meant that the Knights of Bogan could freely operate on their planet as long as their operations were contained within these very specific properties. This, however, allowed the Jedi to do the same,​

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”Sir Kai, I believe we’re not too far off the elevator. According to the navigation data of these catacombs, their fortress should appear above us quite soon.”​

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Huyang uttered through his vocal emulators as his yellow, glowing eyes acted as if as flashlights while navigating the vast tunnel network of the so-called Undercity.

Their mission wasn’t without risk either. Simultaneously with their mission, the emissaries of both the Corellian Dominion and the Coruscanti Alliance of Free Worlds were in diplomatic talks with the Korosi Emperor. If their mission would cause more harm than needed and create attention, it could risk these negotiations which could potentially sway the tide of raw.​

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[Jeh'Kant Kai]

JEH'KANT KAI​

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20000 BBY, Koros Major, dusk, the Mission to Save a Monk!​

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Not many are capable of understanding the burden another soul carries. Many times we’re too wrapped up in our own world, in our own fight, to be able to take time to comprehend the sophisicated realization that each random passerby is living a life as vivid and complex as our own. Everyone is fighting some sort of demon and it requires a special trait of empathy and understanding to place yourself in another’s shoes. Jeh’Kant is one of those people. He’s able to understand that everyone is wrapped up in their own world and at the end of the day it’s self-preservation. Could you blame them? Being able to step into another’s shoes and rationalize their feelings is both a gift and a curse.

These were Jeh’Kant’s thoughts as he walked through the labyrinth of tunnels beneath the Cinnagar. He hadn’t talked much this entire trip and was on the quiet side of conversation in comparison to other moments. Their footsteps masked, but the weight of burden echoed loudly with each step. Each and every step tinged with a palpable tension—no, rather it was sadness perhaps even a little bit of fatigue. Jeh’Kant glanced over at Huyang as he side-stepped a dead animal, covering his own noise in the process as he registered what Huyang said before responding “Absolutely disgusting. Why do all the criminals choose the most disgusting and hideous places to go about their business?” He whispered with a clear expression of disgust.

With each step they came closer and closer to the fortress. “You aren’t tired, Huyang?” Jeh’Kant asked with a tired soul. “That’s a stupid question, you don’t get tired. But still—aren’t you tired of the war? You’ve been at it for ages now, way longer than I have, yet I feel my spirit becoming weaker and weaker.” By the time Huyang would’ve finished, they would have reached the fortress followed by the sound of screams terrorizing and echoing throughout the Undercity. Jeh’Kant quickly, but quietly, made his way through the fortress ensuring he would not be seen. What he saw, he was not prepared for..​

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[DarthVerus]

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Huyang, the Professor​

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20000 BBY, Koros Major, dusk, the Mission to Save a Monk!​

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Huyang listened to the weary Jedi, despite his youth. And it was no wonder. All the Jedi initiates for the last two-hundred years have come to the order to be trained for war. What the Tythonian Knights didn’t quite realize wss that they should train their padawan to end wars and maintain peace—something they hadn’t even considered since the First Great Schism. It seemingly left a far greater wound in foundations of the order itself than anyone could’ve thought. The galaxy itself was far from the place Huyang himself it would be at this point in time. One could’ve thought that after the Infinite Empire of the Rakata fell, those who fought against them would’ve created something of their own. Instead, everything fell further apart. It wasn’t exactly the environment for the Jedi to thrive, but on the other hsnd they could prove themselves to be peacekeepers and end this madness.

Huyang had seen 200 generations of Jedi come and go, and he believed he saw what Jeh’Kant needed—a purpose. This war certainly began to lack one, and fighting for nothing would wear out any warrior before long. Perhaps it was time for the young Jedi find his purpose.​

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”Tired, sir? No, my programming doesn’t quite know what that means.”​

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Huyang uttered through his vocal emulators, briefly pausing before his emulatorswould once more produce speech.​

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”But, I am quite finished with this war. As much as you are, I think. Have you ever thought about why exactly are you tired?”​

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Huyang asked his companion as they walked down the rat-infested tunnel. Per Huyang’s data, their way out was less than a mile away.​

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[Voros Viszla]

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Voros Viszla​

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20000 BBY, Koros Major, Dusk, Elevator Guardian; Voros Viszla​

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What does it truly mean to be a warrior? A warrior embodies discipline, possesses keen insight, and masters a diverse arsenal of skills. For some, strength is the ultimate currency; the thrill of battle fuels their spirit, and there is no greater satisfaction than showcasing their might in the heat of combat. Yet, every warrior's resolve is tested whether it be their honor or their deepest beliefs and how they rise from these challenges shapes their journey.

But here I am, confined to guard an elevator door in a dank, musty tunnel, far removed from where I long to shine. For 17 relentless years, I have adhered to the sacred code of the Roon Warriors, striving with unwavering determination to become the finest warrior and marksman within our ranks. Yet, fate has dealt me a bitter hand, relegating me to this desolate post.

Was it my upbringing among the Roon Warriors that has brought me to this ignoble duty? The desire to fight, to unleash the culmination of my skills honed through sweat and sacrifice, throbs within me like a restless beast. My abilities eclipse even those of the elite warriors who bask in glory, adorned with medals and stories of valor.

What I wouldn’t give to stand shoulder to shoulder with my comrades on the battlefield, to feel the adrenaline surge as I charge into the fray, ready to unleash death upon my enemies. The air crackles with the anticipation of battle, and every fiber of my being yearns to break free from this suffocating darkness and thrust itself into the light of conflict, where honor is won and legends are born.​

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[Jeh'Kant Kai]

JEH'KANT KAI​

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20000 BBY, Koros Major, dusk, the Mission to Save a Monk!​

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"This war.." Jeh'Kant sighed with a heavy heart, "Is our entire purpose to fight in this war? Is that all we are?" He responded rather quickly as they continued to walk through the tunnel. As the conversation continued, and as they drew closer to the elevators, Jeh'Kant sensed a familiar presence, once he had not sensed in quite some time. A light smile formed across his face as they turned to corner in the maze coming into sight for both parties. His brown eyes locked into the man before him, Voros Viszla, warrior turned elevator guardian. As they got closer within ear shot distance, he'd speak up again poking fun at Viszla. "Huyang, you didn't tell me we had such an overqualified guard. Looks like there is hope for this war." ​

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[DarthVerus]

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Huyang, the Professor​

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20000 BBY, Koros Major, dusk, the Mission to Save a Monk!​

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No, it wasn’t the sole purpose of the Jedi or anyone to fight in this war—on the contrary, the Jedi are meant to end conflicts instead of prolonging them. However, ever since the First Great Schism the Jedi have been cautious of not taking action and instead have set themselves on a path of constant battle and conflict. The Jedi had become less of a peacekeeping order and more of a knighthood—templars who inspire and fight on before the levies. However, that is not their purpose. And as such, even the young Jeh’Kant suffers from the lack of fulfilling that purpose. And perhaps that is exactly the reason why Jeh’Kant should find his own purpose.​

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”Certainly not, sir. On the contrary, I believe our purpose is to end this conflict. And I believe that’s what led us here, to these tunn-”​

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Huyang uttered through his vocal emulators before abruptly intterupting his own words—his ocular sensors picked up a familiar foe. And an inconvenience that might cost them precious time. Jeh’Kant was an immensely capable Jedi, however he should never underestimate the circumstances ahead even if the enemy ahead wasn’t the most powerful one. The enemy was wary of intruders, otherwise the Roonian warrior wouldn’t stand there. The Knights of Bogan were too few in numbers, much like the Jedi, to spare one of their own to guard an elevator—but they still placed a guard in the most unlikely place and made sure the elevator didn’t work either. Huyang saw that it was clearly malfunctional, short-circuited. That meant that whatever they did upstairds was very private.​

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”Overqualified or not, we must act quickly. Handle the Roonian, I’ll try and fix the elevator.”​

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Huyang uttered with confidence and command as he monitored the events unfolding. He knew not to underestimate Roonians as they’d won many battles in their name and the name of the Corellian Dominion. While it seemed like Corellians and Roonese formed an alliance merely out of mutual benefit, this war was also a chance to exact revenge upon the Coruscanti by the Roonians. The Taung, from whom the Roonese eventually evolved, were banished from Coruscant—their ancient homeworld eons ago by the local human populace. Ever since, the Taung and later the Roonians have harbored hatred for the Coruscanti and their allies, including the Jedi.​

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[Voros Viszla]

Voros Viszla​

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20000 BBY, Koros Major, Dusk, Elevator Guardian; Voros Viszla​

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Just as I thought, my night couldn’t get any worse. The echo of footsteps bounced through the dark tunnel, each step vibrated against the grimy walls. A voice slithered through the gloom, cutting through the tension in the air like a lightsaber through flesh unsettlingly familiar. Peering through the visor of my black and copper tri-corner helmet, the dim flicker of low voltage lights revealed two figures emerging from the murky shadows. My back was a mere couple of feet from the elevator I was sworn to guard, and dread coiled in my gut as I took in the scene.

One of them a sleek, glimmering droid stood at attention, metallic limbs gleaming even in the meager light. The other was a face I wished I could forget: Jeh’Kant, a Jedi with an unpredictable personality that I had encountered on a past mission. My heart quickened; this was the last person I wanted to see tonight.

With a reluctant sigh, I forced myself to my feet, my body encased in black and copper Beskar Armor that gleamed ominously under the flickering lights. The trench coat that clung to my slender frame swayed slightly, the fabric whispering as I moved. My Slugthrower pistol, reminiscent of an ancient flintlock but with a modern twist, rested snugly in its holster on the left side of my hip, ready for action. Meanwhile, my Cortosis sword its curved handle designed for both beauty and functionality lay sheathed behind my back, a constant reminder of the fight that could erupt at any moment.

With determination setting my jaw, I placed my left hand on my pistol, eyes narrowing as I fixed them on the pair before me.

“Look, I can’t let you pass,” I barked, the authority in my voice echoing off the walls of the tunnel like a thunderclap. “Jeh’Kant, take your droid and leave. There is enough bloodshed for today.”

The droid whirred and clicked as it processed the command, but my focus remained on Jeh’Kant. His piercing gaze held an unsettling intensity, suggesting an unpredictable next move that sent a shiver down my spine. I wasn’t going to back down, even if I knew this Jedi’s reputation for persuasion and skill. My grip on the pistol tightened, knuckles turning white as I awaited their move, the air thick with tension and the promise of chaos. The darkness seemed to close in around us, suspense crackling like a spark before a storm, turning this mundane night into a powder keg ready to explode.​

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[Jeh'Kant Kai]

JEH'KANT KAI​

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20000 BBY, Koros Major, dusk, the Mission to Save a Monk!​

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Whatever Huyang’s response was, Jeh’Kant didn’t really hear it because as soon as he had finished speaking his mind couldn’t get but fixate upon how it has been radio silent from Cevgo, someone he holds very dear to his heart and where he believes their time should be spent searching. Yet, here they are.

Jeh’Kant continued walking towards Tinman without any regard to his warning. He approached in a very nonchalant manner, not making any sudden movements that would provoke the defensive Voros Viszla. “Vorza, Vorza” Jeh’Kant smiled as he said out-loud “Old friend, how have you been?!” By the time he had finished that sentence, Jeh’Kant was already on the right side of Voros, hugging him awkwardly with Voros’s right shoulder in his chest. Jeh’Kant would hold the hug, but say nothing more after that. However, very lightly under his breath, you would hear a few more words “Ooh, I’ve missed ya…”​

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[DarthVerus]

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Huyang, the Professor​

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20000 BBY, Koros Major, dusk, the Mission to Save a Monk!​

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Huyang was well aware that the young Jeh’Kant wasn’t so much interested in the affairs of the Jedi Council or their mission. All he seemed to care for was to find his old friend, Cevgo, who had been missing now for over two years. Cevgo left the Jedi Order on his own and for his own reasons which he never clarified, not even to sir Kai. According to the latest reports and sightings, it is believed that Cevgo had been in contact with the Knights of Bogan or had perhaps been captured by them which was the driving factor fot Jeh’Kant to take this mission. The Jedi Council itself however does not support any missions to search for Cevgo, as he wished to leave on his own accord. This on the other hsnd has been most frustrating to those close to him, such as Jeh’Kant.

While Jeh’Kant approached the Roonian warrior, Huyang took his opportunity to slip past both his Jedi companion and the man in armor to run to the elevator. As soon as Huyang reached it’s mainframe, he used the link device in his right hand to access the control electronics and the operating modules of the elevator to make it work once more. ​

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[Voros Viszla]

Voro Viszla​

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20000 BBY, Koros Major, Dusk, Elevator Guardian; Voros Viszla​

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“Vor…Vorza! Really? This guy’s already given me a nickname?” I thought to myself, feeling that familiar mix of confusion and annoyance as I watched Jeh’Kant approach. My helmet may have masked my features, but if it hadn’t, the look on my face would’ve been pure disbelief. Old friends? Hardly. I didn’t consider this oddball my friend at all. He had a knack for being just a bit over the top for my taste.

As he moved in closer, his enthusiasm didn’t waver. Suddenly, he threw an arm around me and whispered, “Ooh, I’ve missed ya…” A chill raced down my spine not the kind anyone enjoys. Disgusted, I pushed him away with my right arm, creating a little distance between us.

“You’re one weird dude, you know that? I honestly don’t know how anyone puts up with you,” I replied, letting out a long sigh as I shook my hand like it was covered in something unpleasant.

“Oh, and tell your droid buddy to back off the elevator,” I added, keeping my tone calm even though my hand rested on my pistol's grip. “I really don’t want to shoot him.” I gestured with my thumb toward the droid trying to stealthily sneak past us, hoping it would take my warning to heart. I didn’t have any desire to harm either of them, but I had a job to do, and I intended to see it through.​

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[Jeh'Kant Kai]

JEH'KANT KAI​

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20000 BBY, Koros Major, dusk, the Mission to Save a Monk!​

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Unfortunately for Vorza when he would come to push Jeh'Kant away, he'd find that it was much more challenging than anticipated. For one, the positioning they were in would make it exceptionally difficult for Vorza to even raise his arm as his shoulder was essentially in Jeh'Kant's chest. And second, Jeh'Kant had wrapped his arms around the other shoulder subtly also making it challenging for that arm to move. Of course there was the intangibles such as Jeh'Kant's strength, but another ceveat that mattered was the robotic hand that Jeh'Kant had that secured the hug even more than normal. Escaping from this death grip, this late, would prove less easier than thought. As Vorza would speak about Jeh'Kant being one weird dude, Jeh'Kant would inhale deeply and cut him off before he could even finish. "Mmmmmm, you smell so good. Is that vanilla?"

Jeh'Kant questioned. As Vorza had struggled earlier to remove Jeh'Kant off of him, it would cause Jeh'Kant to lose his balance. This was not at all factual, Jeh'Kant had forced himself to lose his balance so they could both fall to the ground. In fact, Jeh'Kant would even try to kick the back of his leg "accidently" so that they both would fall. And if they were, Jeh'Kant would close his eyes and wrap one of his legs around Vorza and roll back and forth with holding him with a powerful grip.​

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[DarthVerus]

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Huyang, the Professor​

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20000 BBY, Koros Major, dusk, the Mission to Save a Monk!​

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The link device of Huyang turned back and forth while he did his best to repair and recalibrate the high-voltage circuit of the elevator, operating the interior electrical system of the device in order to reinstate the communication between the electrical modules and the mechanical lift devices. However, while Huyang was a droid and couldn’t feel like an organic being, the language of his data shifted as he witnessed what transpired between Jeh’Kant and Voros. And while he couldn’t truly show any expressions in a traditional manner, the pixelated emote screens visible upon his ocular sensors that somewhat acted as his eyes showed an expression of most honest disturbance as he watched Jeh’Kant drag Voros on the floor. His sonar sensors also couldn’t pass on how Jeh’Kant spoke to the Roonian warrior. Huyang turned his head back towards the control mainframe of the elevator as he did his best in repairing it.​

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”Sir Kai, could you PLEASE be quick about it? I’m almost done!!”​

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Huyang uttered through his vocal emulators with a sound of urgency snd frustration. While Huyang had worked with Jeh’Kant since his days as a Padawan and had as much as helped the young man in constructing his first lightsaber, Huyang couldn’t simply come to terms with how Jeh’Kant sometimes dealt with certain situations. Among the Jedi, he was certainly a splash of color in a sea of gray. But that was merely a positive, as Huyang was nearing the end of the reparation process.

Huyang hadn’t simply helped Jeh’Kant with building his first lightsaber, but he was instrumental in helping the Jedi with inventing it altogether. It was Huyang who reverse engineered the Rakatan forcesabers since the Jedi themselves dared not to do so. And after the Jedi discovered Ilum, it was Huyang who proposed to use the newfound Kyber crystals in what would become the iconic weapon of the Jedi. However, how the Rakata came across their weaponry was a thing of ancient history.​

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[Voros Viszla]

Voro Viszla​

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20000 BBY, Koros Major, Dusk, Terrified Elevator Guardian; Voros Viszla​

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As I tried to wriggle free from Jeh’Kant’s grip, I quickly realized that his robotic hand had a surprisingly tight hold on me. No matter how much I squirmed, I couldn’t shake him off. In a moment of panic, I felt him lean in closer, his breath warm against my ear as he inhaled deeply and remarked, “Mmmmmm, you smell so good. Is that vanilla?” His comment completely cut me off from shouting at the droid nearby.

Honestly, I had never felt more uncomfortable in my life. Every instinct screamed at me to get away from this guy.

“HEY DRO-”

Before I could finish my shout, Jeh'Kant's weight shifted, and suddenly, I found ourselves falling toward the ground. It was a split second moment that caught me off guard. I felt him trying to wrap his leg around mine, but I quickly twisted my leg free, planting my foot firmly on the ground to keep us both from toppling over in what was becoming an awkward sumo wrestling match.

I knew there would be chaos if I fell to the ground with him. Desperate, I shot a glance over at the droid, who simply ordered Jeh’Kant to “finish things quickly.” That sent a chill down my spine. What had he done to others? What did “quickly” even mean in this context?

“DROID, PLEASE, I’LL DOUBLE WHAT HE IS PAYING YOU! JUST GET HIM OFF OF ME!” I shouted, my voice tinged with urgency, not daring to look at Jeh’Kant. I could tell he wore a devious smirk, clearly reveling in the situation. Was this some twisted game they had cooked up together?

“I’LL LET YOU GUYS PASS! JUST MAKE IT STOP!” I blurted out, feeling the panic rise within me as I just wanted this nightmare to end.​

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[Jeh'Kant Kai]

JEH'KANT KAI​

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20000 BBY, Koros Major, dusk, the Mission to Save a Monk!​

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He wasn't done just yet. No, no—there was much more to do. He needed to make Vorza realize. He needed to make Vorza understand Jeh'Kant and himself as much as he possibly could. Jeh'Kant wanted Vorza to understand the very depths and cusps of his character and what makes him—him and what makes Vorza—Vorza. Jeh'Kant had heard Huyang loud and clear and he could already assume the reaction that Huyang had painted on his occular sensors. Jeh'Kant had been known to do odd things from time to time, this news wasn't new, but it was true that he had the tendency to one up himself every now and then.

Just as Vorza had twisted his leg free Jeh'Kant would in turn "snake" his leg around Vorza's leg closest to him and move to position himself on top of Vorza—primarily on the side closest to his body to give him a bit of a boost. What this would do in terms of their wresting match? Absolutely nothing. It was mainly to get his face in a better position so he could look Vorza in the eye. By this time, Vorza had said they could pass if we stopped, but Jeh'Kant had more to do, more to say. "That's good and all, but now say this with me. Repeat after me—'Jeh'Kant is my best friend. I plead my loyalty to the great and amazing Jeh'Kant Kai.' Say it!"

Had Vorza done exactly what was asked of him, Jeh'Kant would release him before jumping up from the ground and walking towards the elevators, smiling devilishly at Huyang.​

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[DarthVerus]

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Huyang, the Professor​

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20000 BBY, Koros Major, dusk, the Mission to Save a Monk!​

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Huyang’s work bore fruit—just as the Roonian warrior told the Mark IV Architect Droid that he was willing to pay more than Jeh’Kant did, the droid removed his link device from the mainframe panel of the elevator as it began to respond to commands once more. To add to the anguish of the warrior, Huyang didn’t get paid for his role at all. He was a servant of the Jedi Order, and he had been such for over five thousand years. He turned his ocular sensors to fully focus on what seemed like odd wrestling between his Jedi companion and the Roonian—and his expression remained the same. However, knowing it was Jeh’Kant, he knew it wouldn’t likely get more odd should the warrior simply oblige to his rather peculiar request.​

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”Sir Kai, if you may, the elevator is fully functional.”​

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The droid calmly lamented through his vocal emulators, as he already began to calculate their chances of passing through the fortress unscathed. They were very low. Per reports, one of the lords among the Knights of Bogan was present and that meant someone very powerful among their ranks was present—someone among their leadership. Many of the knights among their order were equal to Tythonian Jedi Masters, but lords were regarded truly powerful and could match multiple Jedi Masters on their own if they so willed. The presence of such a being also meant that the information this monk had was immensely important, perhaps gravely important.​

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[Voros Viszla]

Voro Viszla​

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20000 BBY, Koros Major, Dusk, Terrified Elevator Guardian; Voros Viszla​

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Time was slipping away, and honestly, I couldn't stand being around these guys any longer. I just needed them to give me some space and leave. After my chat with the droid, Jeh’Kant, out of nowhere, wrapped his leg around mine again, leaning into me more than I was comfortable with. And just like that, while I was distracted trying to negotiate with the droid, we both ended up tripping and hitting the ground hard.

Jeh’Kant still had a vice like grip on me, and I couldn’t get free. He looked at me with those intense eyes and demanded that I swear loyalty to him and declare us best friends. I stopped struggling for a moment, giving him my best serious face, although I knew my helmet probably masked most of my expression.

“Listen, Jeh’Kant, I’m a Warrior, born and bred for fighting. My loyalty is to the Warriors of Roonian. I might not be as experienced as some, but I can’t just jump ship and follow someone without seeing some real skill first,” I said, trying to keep my tone steady. Deep down, I was thinking there was no way I could see myself following this guy; he’d have to do something incredible to win me over.

A few awkward moments went by, and then the droid chimed in, letting Jeh’Kant know the elevator was finally operational.

“Alright, it's time for you to bounce!”

I shouted, wriggling around, desperate to break free again. Although, as I struggled, I couldn’t shake the feeling that I was being pushed into more mundane assignments. I knew I had skills that surpassed many top Roonian Warriors, and while we held onto our principles of honor, there was still a hierarchy to consider. The elite warriors were always a bit wary of those like me who had a knack for besting them. I’d even taken down the second in command in an exhibition match, which probably didn’t do me any favors with the hierarchy.

What I craved was the adrenaline rush of being on the battlefield, the thrill of facing off against real opponents. That was where I truly belonged, not wrestling with some wannabe leader on the ground.​

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[DarthVerus]

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The Force​

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20000 BBY, Koros Major, dusk, the Mission to Save a Monk!​

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As Huyang continued observing Jeh’Kant and the Roonian warrior—Jeh’Kant could sense something calling to him, something that felt both tangible and ethereal. A whisper that couldn’t be heard unless you truly could listen. A gust of wind that one couldn’t see but could feel nonetheless. It was the Force, and it had chosen to speak to Jeh’Kant. Why now? Why in this instance? The Force was a current that flowed in manners that couldn’t always be explained, but whatever it had to tell certainly had a meaning. If the young Jedi opened his mind to it and allowed the Force to speak, he could see a vision of things that may or may not happen. Things that could become true. First, he could hear a voice speaking in the darkness. A familiar voice, but unrecognizable all at the same time. As if the voice spoke through some entity, an entity of dark nature.​

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”The Force…. Is a prison which I will destroy!”​

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That pitch black darkness shifted to a scenery of space. Jeh’Kant could see a dark sphere moving towards a planetary system brimming with life—and in a flash all that life from each of those planets would be gone. As if that dark sphere had siphoned all of it in an instant. Then the scenery shifted to an army, following Jeh’Kant on a distant desert planet as they chanted while marching behind him—”Tanu Bendu”. A name that very few knew about. The Force wouldn’t show any more. It’s current began to flow away from Jeh’Kant, for now. While in the eyes of the young Jedi the vision would last for many seconds, in reality it would rather take a fraction of one.​

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[Jeh'Kant Kai]

JEH'KANT KAI​

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20000 BBY, Koros Major, dusk, the Mission to Save a Monk!​

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The moment Voros began speaking an eerily silence would plague Jeh’Kant’s hearing. Everything in the moment would begin to sound muffled as if someone had placed their hands over his ears and an ethereal whisper would stand out amongst everything. While Voros squirmed, Jeh’Kant held him without much effort, but both Huyang and Voros would be able to tell that from his facial expression and how he zoned out—something was happening. The Force spoke to him, he listened by inviting the words and vision in. He witnessed it all—the words, the planet being siphoned until it was lifeless, and the following behind Jeh’Kant in the desert island. “Tanu Bendu” he whispered to himself before he snapped back into reality.

Not a word was missed from his best-friends speech within that second and he would receive a response in a much more serious tone than everything that happened before, “It’s ironic you say you’re a warrior bred for fighting yet when we arrived you said that there had been enough bloodshed for today.” Jeh’Kant hummed in thought as he released his best friend, “Perhaps you aren’t cut out for the warrior lifestyle. Hm? Have you ever thought of that?” Jeh’Kant began to dust off his clothes as he continued to speak, “You know what I think? I think you’re a product of your environment. You want to believe that you’re bred for fighting, but truthfully—I think you like handling situations in a peaceful manner. Not everyone great at combat is meant to be a warrior. ” By this time he was making direct eye contact with his best friend, “To end a battle without need of a weapon is my greatest goal. You aren’t there yet. Neither am I. But perhaps, together, we can reach that goal.” Jeh’Kant extended his hand out to help raise his best friend up to his feet. Jeh’Kant couldn’t help but wonder whether or not Voros would accept this alliance or not.

Whatever the outcome was, Jeh'Kant would be fine with it. It would either be three of them in the elevator or two. The mission would not change.​

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[Xev]

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20000 BBY, Koros Major – The Throne Room of Emperor Koros III​

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The doors to the throne room creaked open, their colossal weight groaning under the sheer gravity of what lay beyond. The air inside was thick—dense with the scent of polished stone, burning incense, and something more intangible but unmistakable… power.

The chamber was a cathedral of human history. Artifacts spanning millennia lined the marble walls, relics of conquests and triumphs long past. The banners of Koros hung like draped shadows, each one embroidered with golden insignias that depicted the supremacy of mankind over all things lesser. Statues of human warriors, carved from obsidian and ivory, flanked the room like silent sentinels—unmoving yet ever-judging.

At the far end, enthroned upon a seat of black stone, sat Emperor Koros III. His presence alone made the air heavier, his figure cloaked in imperial crimson, a golden circlet resting upon his brow. His eyes were sharp, scanning the room with a gaze that was both calculating and disdainful. Before him stood the Corellian delegation, their postures rigid with entitlement, their armor polished to a mirror’s gleam.

A figure entered, slow and deliberate.
At first, he was little more than a silhouette in the vast, dimly lit expanse of the hall—his form obscured beneath a dark cloak that rippled with his stride. The flickering torchlight caught the glint of a metallic belt, the faint outline of twin hilts resting against his hips. He moved with calm precision, the air around him neither heavy nor light, yet undeniably charged with something that set him apart from the warlords and politicians present.

A Jedi.

The realization settled over the room, drawing quiet tension from those who recognized his kind.

His hood remained raised as he approached the throne, his steps producing no sound against the polished marble. The Corellians regarded him with veiled amusement, while the Emperor’s lip curled ever so slightly in disdain.

When he spoke, his voice was smooth yet measured, its cadence neither overly formal nor submissive.

"Your Majesty," the Jedi greeted, bowing only slightly.

The Emperor’s fingers tapped idly against the armrest of his throne. "And who, precisely, do I have the dubious honor of speaking to?"

A pause.

Then, the Jedi raised his hand to his hood and slowly pulled it back, revealing a sharp yet composed face, amber eyes almost fire-like, lined with the quiet weight of years spent watching war unfold.

"Xev Kalmer. Representative of the Coruscanti Alliance and the Jedi Order."

A murmur rippled through the court. The Jedi had sent a Master, not a Knight. A deliberate move. Xev stood tall, his posture radiating a sense of unwavering control, as if he had already foreseen every word that would be spoken in this chamber. His expression was calm, betraying neither arrogance nor deference.

The Emperor exhaled through his nose, barely concealing his distaste. "I see Coruscant has sent a philosopher instead of a warrior. Are your temples so empty that they must rely on words instead of lightsabers?"
Xev remained unmoved.

"Perhaps, Your Majesty. But I have found that words, when wielded correctly, can cut deeper than any lightsaber."

The Corellians chuckled, though it was half-hearted. The Emperor, however, did not smile.

"Tell me, Jedi—what claim does Coruscant stake upon my empire? I am no fool. I know why you stand here before me, as the Dominion does. You come to beg for my favor, do you not?"

A subtle shift in the air.
Xev’s gaze did not waver, his presence remaining still, yet unwaveringly firm—like a blade held just short of striking.

"Not to beg," he corrected smoothly. "To offer. To warn."

"Koros stands at the precipice of war. You may not be a participant, but you will not remain untouched. The Corellians offer you their strength, but at a price—they will demand fealty. They will demand submission. And they will take what they want, whether you agree to it or not."

The Corellian delegation stiffened at that, shifting uncomfortably. The accusation, though indirect, was not unfounded.
Xev took another step forward, his voice unshaken.

"The Jedi offer something different."

The Emperor leaned forward slightly, his gaze flickering with scrutiny. "And what, pray tell, does your Order offer?"
The Jedi Master’s response was simple.

"Protection. Unquestioned. Unwavering. Free of charge."

A silence settled over the court, thick with contemplation. The offer was bold. A permanent alliance with the Jedi Order, an eternal safeguard against any threat. It was a shield unlike any other—but one that came with its own price: to stand with the Coruscanti Alliance, to align against the Dominion. The Emperor’s fingers drummed against the armrest of his throne. His expression betrayed nothing, but Xev knew he was thinking. Weighing. Calculating.

He had stalled them, at least for now. Enough time for Jeh’Kant and Huyang to complete their mission.

Now came the harder part—convincing an Emperor who despised everything Xev represented.


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