[2] Ethics

[Lief]

[1] - [3]​

​

In order to progress, you must begin with a foundation.

No Jedi was able to begin their duties without first learning to adhere to the Codes and Tenets of the Order.

Three Codes. The Jedi have three distinct codes, not including that which is uttered during the creation of a lightsaber, and it is your duty to learn them all. More than just the words, but the meanings they stand for.

Countless Tenets. Innumerable snippets of information, guidelines to acknowledge. Once the Order had been stricter, once you had to know and follow each unwavering. But times change... Perhaps the Jedi you know are more lenient.

Do not be afraid, young Je'daii... We are not too dissimilar, our Orders, from one formed the other after all.

​

Contents:

1. Brief Philosophy of the Jedi Order
2. Codes of the Jedi Order
3. The Crystal Code, And Its Significance
4. The Meaning Of The Jedi Code by Odan-Urr
5. Tenets of the Jedi Order
6. The Three Pillars of Jedi Strength
7. The Jedi Code
8. The Jedi Code: Self Discipline
9. The Jedi Code: Responsibility
10. The Jedi Code: Public Service
11. Attitude Toward Lightsabers and the Force
12. Form Zero
13. Rules of Engagement

 

[Lief]

A Brief Philosophy of the Jedi Order​

​

1. A Jedi uses the Force, and their lightsaber only, for defense, never to attack.
   
2. A Jedi must understand the dark and light present in all things.
   
3. A Jedi must learn to see accurately, and without prejudice.
   
4. A Jedi must open their eyes to what is not evident.
   
5. A Jedi must exercise caution, even during trivial matters.
   
6. A Jedi must allow others to draw on them, for strength and support.

 

[Lief]

Codes of the Jedi Order​

There are several codes which govern the every day morality of the Jedi Order and those who affiliate themselves with its teachings. Throughout the ages they have adapted into one another, and adjustments have been made which relate to the changes in the Galaxy at the time of their creation. Technically these codes began with the Je'daii Code founded upon Tython during the Age of the Tho Yor, long before the establishment of divides between the Ashla and the Bogan.

• The Je'daii Code is as follows:
  
  There is no ignorance, there is knowledge
  There is no fear, there is power
  I am the heart of the Force
  I am the revealing fire of light
  I am the mystery of darkness
  In balance with chaos and harmony
  Immortal in the Force

Needless to say, when the Jedi gained prominence in the Galaxy and chose to study only the Ashla, this Code had to be adjusted in order to remain in-keeping with the Jedi Way of Life. As a result, over time, from the Je'daii Code grew the Jedi Mantra - specifically retaining the principal tenet. This would be an ambiguous alteration which was intended to give guidance as opposed to direct moral structure.

• The Jedi Mantra is as follows:
  
  Emotion, yet peace
  Ignorance, yet knowledge
  Passion, yet serenity
  Chaos, yet harmony
  Death, yet the Force

The Jedi Mantra may today be seen as somewhat controversial, in that it does not deny the existence of emotions, ignorance or even chaos, as instead it spoke of moderation over absolution. For instance, a Jedi should remain at peace within themselves, and while they could not deny emotion any more than they could the existence of life itself, they should also learn how to deal with it in a productive manner without side-lining their duties.

When darkness began to settle on the Galaxy, however, with the growth of the Sith and the corruption they seemingly brought alongside them, the Jedi realised that a more direct approach had to be taken to the morality of the Jedi Order and its tenets. Rather than a guideline, the Jedi Mantra was adapted over time to instead objectively remind the Jedi of how they ought to act in the Galaxy; it reminded them of their personal sacrifice for the greater good, and that they had to trust in the Force and their Instincts above all else. The final product is often attributed to Odan-Urr, although even this was at times adjusted due to a conflict of agreement over one of the tenets.

• The Jedi Code is as follows:
  
  There is no emotion, there is peace
  There is no ignorance, there is knowledge
  There is no passion, there is serenity
  There is no chaos, there is harmony
  There is no death, there is the Force

As mentioned, this Code was disagreed upon by some Jedi, who sought to remove the fourth tenet due to a philosophical misunderstanding. While present day Jedi no longer omit the tenet regarding Chaos and Harmony, they still acknowledge the former rejection and despite this the Jedi Code as expressed by Odan-Urr remains the most commonly followed and universal Jedi Code to exist in the Galaxy today.

With that said, after the collapse of the Jedi Order following Order 66, another Code was said to be established in regards to the Jedi Order - yet it is not as well remembered nor was it so well received, due to the diminished population of Jedi remaining in the Galaxy. Some argue it has existed for generations, predating even the Jedi Mantra, though it is difficult to say for sure.

• The Alternate Jedi Code is as follows:
  
  Jedi are the guardians of peace in the galaxy
  Jedi use their powers to defend and protect, never to attack others
  Jedi respect all life, in any form
  Jedi serve others, rather than rule over them, for the good of the galaxy
  Jedi seek to improve themselves through knowledge and training

Due to the aforementioned lack of reception this code received, it would not be until a certain Grandmaster altered it slightly that this alternate Jedi Code really came to light. Known now by most as the New Jedi Code, or wrongfully Skywalkers Code, the adjustments found in both the Alternate and the New Jedi Code when compared with the Jedi Code of the Old Republic can be attributed to the reformed Jedi Order and the state of the Galaxy at the time of its unveiling.

• The New Jedi Code is as follows:
  
  Jedi are the guardians of peace in the galaxy
  Jedi use their powers to defend and protect
  Jedi respect all life, in any form
  Jedi serve others, rather than rule over them, for the good of the galaxy
  Jedi seek to improve themselves through knowledge and training

Alongside this new set of tenets, which no longer forbade the careful use of emotion to guide a Jedi's judgement among other things, were the additional permissions which granted Jedi a chance to speak with the Jedi Council about marrying and procreating among not only other Jedi - which had always been deemed a danger due to both emotional attachment and heightened Force Sensitivity of the child - but also non-Force Sensitives. This was most commonly permitted among members of a species who had been devastated by the Imperial-Rebel war in order to keep their species from going extinct.

Throughout all of the adjustments, one thing can be noted for certain; the Jedi, although others may see them as rigid and set in there ways, are more than capable of adapting to sharp changes in their socio-geographical lifestyles. This trait is likely what has kept them alive despite the genocides they have been met with against their faith and dogma. Throughout all of this, they have managed to retain a hopeful outlook on the future of the Galaxy and the Force itself, while retaining key lessons from all of their experiences.

While the Jedi follow further creeds, tenets, and codes - many of which are miscellaneous - the Jedi Mantra, Jedi Code and New Jedi Code are regarded as the heart of the Jedi's philosophy. Between them they illuminate the Jedi's capacity for toleration, compassion and self-discipline, as well as the sacrifices they make each and every day in order to protect the Galaxy from corruption and neglect.

 

[Lief]

The Crystal Code​

And Its Significance​

​

When the time comes for a Jedi to forge their fabled blade, one thing must always come to mind. A Lightsaber is not just a tool, or a weapon, it is an extension of the Jedi himself, the Force flows through both indiscriminately. To help attune the Jedi to their creation, and the crystals within, a Code was created and the Jedi were encouraged to utter it or meditate upon it when the final assembly begins.

The crystal is the heart of the blade
The heart is the crystal of the Jedi
The Jedi is the crystal of the Force
The Force is the blade of the heart
All are intertwined
The crystal, the blade, the Jedi
We are one

Explanation:

The crystal produces the blade of a lightsaber; it makes life.
The heart is like a crystal, in that it produces our life, our blade.
The Jedi are like the crystal, in that they give life to the Force.
The Force is like the blade of our hearts, for our hearts are like the crystal, the crystal creates the blade.

Crystal = Heart = Life
Heart = Crystal = Life
Jedi = Crystal = Heart = Life
Life = The Force

 

[Lief]

The Meaning of The Jedi Code by Odan-Urr​

​

There is no emotion, there is peace

Emotions are a natural part of living. As the great sagas have shown us, Jedi are not immune to feeling emotions. Jedi Master Obi-Wan Kenobi and Master Yoda both openly express their sorrow when they discover the death of younglings at the newly-appointed Darth Vader's hand. This tenet is not to say that emotion does not exist but that it ought to be set aside. Emotions must be understood first, and it is a young Jedi's duty to explore his feelings. Unless a Jedi can confront his thoughts and feelings, he will never achieve peace. Emotions, then, are not to be overcome or denied, but rather understood and dealt with. A'Sharad Hett reminds the young Anakin Skywalker of this during their campaigns together during the Clone Wars. Hett points out that Anakin's anger is understandable, but he must face it. This tenet could be modified to read "Emotion cannot take away my peace."

There is no ignorance, there is knowledge

A Jedi must be circumspecting and try to understand the world that is surrounding him. That ignorance does not exist is, of course, a flat-out lie or gross misunderstanding. Ignorance is a part of life but it must not be feared. For more knowledge to light their way, the Jedi Temple Archives contains possibly the single largest source of information in the galaxy, but this tenet also reminds the Knight that knowledge can be taken from the most unusual places. The great Master Yoda demonstrated this to the young Luke Skywalker on Dagobah when he acted like a fool, and when he acted childish in front of younglings. This performance was meant to teach Luke and the younglings the simple fact: even the foolish can be wise. Indeed, while instructing younglings, Master Yoda was often heard to remark that "Truly wonderful the mind of a child is." This tenet is what gives the Jedi his open mind and ability to accept what other beings would tend to see as unacceptable. In other words, this tenet points out that often a Jedi must use not only his rational mind but also his intuitive mind in order to ascertain the truth of a situation. This tenet is embodied by Qui-Gon Jinn's statement to Anakin Skywalker to "feel, don't think." Dexter Jettster would further demonstrate this notion: "I should think you Jedi would have more respect for the difference between knowledge and wisdom."

There is no passion, there is serenity

This tenet is essentially a repetition of the first. But this refers more directly to situations of extreme stress in which a Jedi might be tempted to react strongly. That a Jedi must draw his weapon only in defense is an expression of this tenet. While emotions and intuition must be understood and utilized in a Jedi's daily life, he must never act rashly. Passionate use of power leads to the dark side. A Jedi must always act with a calm hand and an even temper.

There is no chaos, there is harmony

This statement reflects the cosmology of the Jedi Order. Whereas uninitiated beings see the universe as a chaotic and disconnected place, a Jedi realizes that all things are interconnected and, more importantly, interdependent. While an uninitiated being sees sorrow and tragedy in the workings of the universe, through the Force, a Jedi is able to interpret and understand even the most painful of life's events. Without this cosmology, surely the first tenets of the Jedi Code would be meaningless. After all, how could one possibly forsake love and compassion if he did not understand the truth of the universe: there is no chaos, there is harmony. Every event has a purpose. As the great Jedi Master Yoda told Anakin Skywalker once, "Death is a natural part of life." Minor inconveniences such as failure, disappointment, and disagreement are also inevitable and should be taken in stride. Jedi do not deny the fact that tragic and terrible things happen; they merely point out that tragedy is simply another part of life.

Without this tenet, all other tenets of the Jedi Code would be meaningless.

There is no death, there is the Force

A Jedi, like many ancient feudal knights of various empires, must always be ready for death. As a warrior not only in combat but also in day-to-day life, it is easy to fail and fall. As Qui-Gon Jinn pointed out to the young Anakin Skywalker, it is quite possible to kill a Jedi, and it happens often. The sense of loss is often even greater for one who feels it with the Force. Death, however, is not a tragedy and is merely a part of the life cycle. Without death, life could not exist. The Force in us, still lives on after we die. This tenet represents a darker side of the Jedi Order, the side that accepts, indeed embraces, death, rot and corruption of corporeal forms. As such, Jedi do not fear death nor do they mourn it overmuch; a Jedi, after all, must celebrate death if he is to also celebrate life. While sources disagree on this point, it is noteworthy to point out that this tenet does not support vegetarianism among the Jedi but, some scholars argue, it does in fact support omnivorism among Jedi. This could also refer to living forever as a force ghost.

 

[Lief]

Tenets of the Jedi Order​

1. The Jedi are the Guardians of Civilisation and Peace.
   
2. A Jedi uses the Force for Knowledge and Defense, never for Aggression or Personal Gain.
   
3. Jedi do not Marry in order to avoid Passion and Attachment.
   
4. Jedi respect one another and all life forms.
   
5. A Jedi must protect the weak and defenseless from evil.
   
6. Jedi are forbidden from ruling others, and must serve the galaxy.
   
7. A Jedi does not take revenge.
   
8. A Jedi does not act for personal gain or power.
   
9. A Jedi expects betrayal from others.
   
10. A Jedi does not kill an unarmed opponent.
    
11. A Jedi only uses his lightsaber as a last resort, and only ignites it when prepared to kill.
    
12. A Jedi only uses the Lightside of the Force.
    
13. A Jedi always respects the High Council and the Republic.
    
14. A Jedi follows the Force and their Instinct, never stopping to question emotions or orders.
    
15. A Jedi does not fear death, and believes that it is the force's will.

 

[Lief]

The Three Pillars of Jedi Strength​

​

[The Force] [Knowledge] [Self-Discipline]​

​

The Force

The first of the three pillars is the Force, the constant in all things. Jedi require the Force in order to perform their duties, and in order to utilize it they have to have an understanding of it and the way it works. A Jedi must study the Force and live in tune with it. You must be able to control the Force, communicate with it, and know its will. When you interact with the Force, you will possess great power. But you must use it wisely.

- Master Sabla-Mandibu said that Jedi are "Swimming in the Force in our every moment - breathing it, tasting it, riding its currents to our own unique destinies."

Knowledge

The second pillar is Knowledge. Jedi require knowledge in order to fulfill their role in the galaxy, and this cannot be done without intense studying and accumulated knowledge. As a Jedi, you will value knowledge and wisdom in yourself and others. You must learn how to distinguish truth from lies, and how to seek out information so you can solve problems and resolve conflict.

Self-Discipline

The third and final pillar is Self Discipline. Whereas the first and second pillars ensure that a Jedi is able to carry out their roles and duties the third pillar of Self Discipline ensures that the Jedi is capable of doing so without allowing outside forces to hold them back from doing so or from using their potential. A Jedi's duty is to others - to help, guide and protect - above their own wants, needs and desires. If a Jedi falls to their desires then they are more likely to become side tracked from their duties, and their better judgement may become clouded due to things such as family. This is the reason why Jedi keep no ties. It is why they need Self Discipline.

Your role as a Jedi must come before your own desires. That means having no possessions and not becoming emotionally attached. If a Jedi cares more for something or someone than he does about his mission, he might make a poor decision and jeopardize the safety of the galaxy.

 

[Lief]

The Jedi Code​

While the Jedi Code dictates a number of issues relating to understanding and mastering the Force, it is not entirely about that. A Jedi must feel the Force to know it, and ancient texts and rules cannot substitute for that experience.

At the same time, a Jedi's social behaviour cannot be learned by applying the Force to it. The Jedi Code also gives a set of expectations and guidelines by which a Jedi must conduct himself. By following the Code, anyone can open up and allow the light side of the Force to flow freely through them and gain a better understanding of the universe and everything around them

A closer examination of the Jedi Code helps to provide some insight not only into the way Jedi behave but also into the way following such strictures helps to foster a way of life conducive to averting the temptations of the dark side. The Code is categorized into three subjects; self-discipline, responsibility, and public service.

 

[Lief]

The Jedi Code: Self-Discipline​

Self-discipline is one of the key factors of Jedi behavior and many lessons taught to the Jedi from a very young age focus on this basic doctrine. At first, the lessons are simple and no different than the lessons taught to other children throughout the galaxy. But as the young Jedi grows, the lessons increase in complexity to emphasize the importance of a disciplined life.

Conquer Arrogance

A Jedi is taught that he is no better than another being who cannot touch the Force. A Jedi is not a Jedi simply because of his strong connection with the Force; he is a Jedi because somebody taught him to be one.

Conquer Overconfidence

As young Jedi pupils learn of their Force-using abilities, they start to take on a belief that they can do anything with that power. Jedi instructors teach these students to realize their limits so that they can accurately measure how far they can go, as well as understand their own limitations.

Conquer Stubbornness

A Jedi who focuses too much on a single goal or perspective loses sight of other possibilities, including ones that might yield better results. A Jedi must learn that staying on one path or clinging to one point of view can be costly. A Jedi must keep their mind open and not be afraid to change with the situation.

Conquer Recklessness

Young Jedi always seem too anxious to master their lightsabers and charge into battle without thinking ahead and developing some form of plan. These Jedi lack self-restraint. Acting impulsively has many times led to the loss of life or limb and placed easily obtainable goals out of reach. A Jedi must learn to pace himself at all times, be aware of unseen dangers and obstacles, and not tumble headlong into them.

Conquer Curiosity

All people, no matter how public their lives are entitled to their privacy. A Jedi who pokes into somebody's business unnecessarily not only invades an individual's private life but also brings shame upon the Jedi for acting so rudely and creating distrust. Using the Force to do so only complicates matters further. The Force does not exist to serve one's curiosity.

Conquer Aggression

For those less experienced in the ways of the Force, knowing the difference between attack, defense, and aggression does not come easily. A Jedi can attack and even kill without aggression, especially if they're calm, at peace, and not filled with anger or hatred. However, killing one's opponent should not become a common act, and a Jedi must explore every alternative before employing lethal force.

Conquer External Loyalties

A Jedi is free to have connections with others outside of the Order, but divided loyalties can compromise a Jedi's effectiveness. Other loyalties can distract him from the task at hand and cause undue hardship for others. For this reason, the Jedi Order recruits students at a very young age and actively discourages relationships early in life that can create problems in the future. The Order also prohibits marriage without special permission from the High Council. A Jedi's loyalties should lie with the Force, the Jedi, the Republic, and himself, in that order.

Conquer Materialism

Like external loyalties, possessions can also be a distraction. A Jedi doesn't need to lead a ascetic life, but one of travelling the light, carrying with them only the bare essentials. Very few Jedi own more than what they can carry.

Conquer Defeatism

Possibly the greatest enemy a Jedi must face is the unshakable belief that nothing can be accomplished, regardless of the size of the task. A Jedi should plan for success before contemplating failure. Planning to fail increases the chance to fail, and expecting to lose encourages one to put forth insufficient effort.

 

[Lief]

The Jedi Code: Responsibility​

Once the ideals of self-discipline are learned, a Jedi becomes more open to the light side of the Force and can more successfully listen to its will. In addition, a Jedi can begin taking responsibility for his actions. Any Jedi that does not take responsibility for his actions lacks the discipline expected of him as a member of the Order.

Practice Honesty

Honesty is the first responsibility of the Jedi, and recognizing its importance is vital to becoming a valued member of the Order. Although certain situations might require a Jedi to stretch the truth or create falsehoods within a particular situation, a Jedi must remain honest with himself, his Master, and the Council. Continually creating lies or subjecting others to delusions invites suspicions and incites anger from others upon discovery of the truth.

Honour Your Promises

A Jedi that makes a promise should be prepared to follow through with that promise or make amends, if necessary. One who makes promises that he does not intend to keep creates dishonesty and is less likely to be trusted.

Honour Your Padawan

Every Jedi Master that takes a Padawan under their wing has a responsibility toward helping that pupil complete their training. A Padawan should be treated with dignity and respect. A Master should not reprimand their Padawan in front of others, but they should commend them in public when they do something worthy of praise. Doing this helps build their confidence and helps improve the relationship between the Master and their Apprentice.

Honour your Master

Likewise, a Padawan should honour their Master at all times. Although disagreements might occur, taking it to the point of argument is not wise. When dealing with others apart from their Master, a Padawan should speak only when spoken to. At all other times, the Padawan should wait for their Master to address the issue. By doing so, the Master will not have to worry about the need to apologize for his apprentice's behavior.

Honour the Jedi Council

Within the Jedi Order, the High Council is the final authority in all matters. However, it cannot watch over every single Jedi in the galaxy. Therefore, a Jedi dispatched on a mission represents the Jedi Order and the Council through his words and actions. At the same time, the Council must answer for what the Jedi says and does during his mission, and putting the Council in a difficult situation brings dishonour upon its members.

Honour the Jedi Order

A Jedi's words and actions represent the Order as a whole. Positive words and deeds reflect positively, while negative ones damage the Order's reputation. Billions of people inhabit the galaxy, and only a small fraction of them have ever encountered a Jedi. The words and deeds of a single Jedi often create a first (and often lasting) impression of the Order as a whole.

Honour the Law

The Jedi Order was appointed by the Galactic Republic to be the protectors of peace and justice throughout the galaxy. As the Republic's enforcers of law, the Jedi must also be bound by that same law. Any Jedi that is sent out to perform missions for the Republic must strive to avoid breaking the law. While venturing into areas of space outside the Republic's jurisdiction, a Jedi must exercise extreme care, for the local-governments might operate differently than the Republic, and a incident in which the Jedi breaks local laws might cause delays in resolving the situation through Republic channels.

Honour Life

Since life is what strengthens the light side of the Force, honoring in all forms is one of the highest priorities of the Jedi Order. Care must be taken to protect life and avoid necessary death, for killing someone gives strength to the dark side of the Force. If a situation arises where a life must be taken after all other options have been contemplated, a Jedi should make sure that the reason is justified. Typically, this should be done in self-defense or the defense of others, incapable of defending themselves. A Jedi should never assume that the taking of a life is no cause for concern. Once a Jedi does not care about committing murder, then they've begun walking down the path to the dark side.

 

[Lief]

The Jedi Code: Public Service​

Even as the Jedi Order strives to expand its knowledge of the Force, it also exists to serve the public's needs. If the Jedi did not have the ability to use the Force, they would still serve as protectors of peace and justice, for doing so is one of the main reasons why the Order was appointed by the Republic. The fact that Jedi can and do use the Force merely accentuates the principle of serving the general public. Many of the ideals set forth for Public Service meld easily with promotion of the light side of the Force, but one must carefully weigh his options when seeking to uphold these ideals to make sure that as few people as possible are adversely affected by doing so.

Duty to the Republic

Despite misconceptions held by some of the populace, the Jedi Order is not part of the Galactic Republic. Nevertheless, the Jedi serve the Republic to uphold its laws and protect its citizens. When they are not needed, they are asked to stand aside, which the Jedi willingly do. This long-standing arrangement between the two organizations was created long ago, for reasons that have been long forgotten.

Render Aid

In conjunction with promoting the ideals of the light side of the Force, all Jedi endeavor to provide aid to those in need whenever possible. However, a Jedi should not forego his other ideals to do so.

Defend the Weak

A Jedi should defend those that are unable to defend themselves. At the same time, a Jedi must be aware that what might seem to be oppression in one culture might not necessarily be so in another. The morals and ethics of other cultures need to be carefully considered before taking action, lest a Jedi insinuate themselves into a situation where their help is not desired.

Provide Support

Although a Jedi toils to help others in need, they must sometimes suspend their wishes and let others impart assistance instead, even if the Jedi could perform the act more quickly or easily. The Jedi should assist only as the situation requires, offer advice upon request, warn when necessary, and argue if proper reason fails.

 

[Lief]

Attitude Toward Lightsabers and the Force​

A Jedi's general attitude towards their lightsaber

To a Jedi, the lightsaber is first a tool and then a weapon - but only if it is necessary for it to be used in such a manner. It has various uses such as being able to burn through items that would otherwise be in their way, to form a path. A lightsaber is not a toy to be used lightly, but is meant to be used only where necessary. It is said that in most cases the sight of a lightsaber is more than enough to do the job, without it actually being used.

A Jedi's general attitude towards the Force

Much like the lightsaber, the Jedi view the Force as a tool, not a toy. In saying that, they view the Force as very much alive, but something that is able to be used if needed. The Force should not be used lightly, and definitely not abused.

 

[Lief]

Form Zero​

Form Zero should be the first means made by all Jedi in order to resolve conflict, and is the idea that the Jedi should do so without resorting to violence. Form Zero encourages diplomacy over conflict. Violence should only be a last resort. However it is more than this. Is something we all live by. Claiming that we strive for peace and then lopping someone's head off without warning will not get us a good reputation. Form Zero is the attitude and principle that we are peaceful at all times.

Masters of Form Zero can turn any situation away from violence, or at least most. There are some which cannot be helped. Masters of Form Zero know when it is heading that way and they know the moment which they must act and can do so perfectly. Form Zero can come in many forms. Simple Diplomacy, Unethical Threats, even the Force - Simply Mindtricks can go a long way.

It teaches to never be hot headed or allow other feelings to interfere with decision making. When thinking about how to resolve a situation for example, just think about what is best for the greater peace, the greater good, even, and peace.

 

[Lief]

Rules of Engagement​

The Rules of Engagement were the Jedi's rules for engaging an enemy in combat.

They included a philosophical doctrine and a practical explanation.

The practical methodology is as follows:

1. Try to verbally diffuse the threat. Employ Form 0.
2. Peacefully disarm the threat if possible.
3. Attempt to arrest the threat.
4. If it is completely dire, and all other options have been expended, murder in serenity.