Faction Bon Voyage [Expedition Firefist]

[Sinmara Ves']

Endor
Open to anyone interested in Expedition Firefist (see LFG here)​

---

Expedition Firefist was on the horizon.

In a relatively short amount of time, it had evolved from a mere dream, to a reality. People from all over had gathered here today as proof of that. Some were born explorers and academics, naturally curious and ready for the discovery of a lifetime. Others were more down-to-earth in their goals; Colonials, prospectors, or just folks trying to get away, and find a fresh start. Whatever their purpose, they were now united, and would come to rely on one another in the days, months, even years to come.

But before heading off through the Nagai Trade Spine and into the unknown, the Expeditionaries saw it fit to have one last night among familiar stars. A bon voyage, a chance to celebrate and break bread with new comrades. All things turning out well, it would boost morale and teamwork before the going got tough.

What better place to do that, than the forest moon of Endor? It was located at the entry point to the Nagai Trade Spine, and the indigenous Ewoks and proven welcoming to peaceable strangers in the past. After initial contact with a regional chieftain, they once again proved happy to oblige. Among their tree-strewn villages, bonfires were lit, music was played, and tables of food were set out to accommodate a most auspicious feast.

Tonight was a time to enjoy. Tomorrow, the real work began.

 

[Sinmara Ves']

Endor
Open to interaction​

---

Sinmara could hardly believe she was already here. Things had moved fast, but Expedition Firefist was being helmed by experts in all manner of fields, herself among them. This was no pipe dream; It was actually happening. A trip to the Firefist galaxy, Force willing, to see things no one from their side of the universe had ever seen before. Literally, she hoped.

All around her, emotions, sounds, movements ebbed and flowed through the Force. It painted a picture few other species would understand, but to her it was the natural state of things. Sinmara walked past one of the fires, wisps of heat radiating against her peripheral. She laid a hand against a set of Ewok drums, and found herself transported to a time long past, when the instrument was brand new.

Her vision was low to the ground, and filled with details and colors that were often missing with her Force sight. The Ewoks were celebrating then much like they were doing today. Sinmara felt nervous. She looked down at her furry, pawed limbs, and climbed up to the seat behind the drums. It was her first time in front of the rest of the tribe. Hopefully things would go well. She picked up a pair of rudimentary sticks, and after a few moments stuck staring, she smacked the hide drumhead with a resonant thrum. The other Ewoks cheered as the music began in earnest, and then Sinmara returned to the present.

Psychometry was a wonderful gift for an archaeologist to possess. Yet she couldn't help but feel a tinge of homesickness every time she left a vision. As if she were being taken away from her own memory. It came with the terrority; Feelings, thoughts, and actions could all be transmitted through an artifact with a strong enough tie to the past.

Ves' stepped away to let the Ewoks play, stopping instead to warm herself by the fire, over which an aromatic meat was being roasted. Now was probably the time to eat gluttonously. Who knew when they'd get a meal like this again.

 

[Su Rov]

Endor
Open to interaction​

Sitting some distance away from the bonfire Su Rov, wearing her pilot's uniform, stared into the flames as if in trance. Next to the young Sullustan on the left side was an orange painted astromech. The droid twists its dome toward his pilot, beeping an observation. Su couldn't help but laugh in response while patting the side of the dome.

"Tin you're right, this is the first time we've been to a party in a long time."

All around them their Ewok hosts were celebrating like there was no tomorrow. Many were dancing around the great fire in a circling fashion while others beat their drums in ancient rhythm. It was a sight to see to be honest and Su allowed herself a smile in that instant, enjoying the spectacle. Quickly though it faded seeing a family of four chatting and eating together. Bowing her head as old guilt festered in the soul Su sighed.

Lifting her opposite hand she drank from the wooden mug that was provided earlier. She drank some of the Tsiraki before sighing. Noticing her state Tin beeped again causing Su to look up to the astromech.

"Thanks buddy you have always been there for me. Even at my worst."

Chirping followed and in reaction Su's expression excited as she replied.

"Yea that's just wild. We're going to explore a whole another galaxy. It's a chance of a lifetime!"

She looked up from the titanic trees toward the starry heavens. Su smiled for a third time. No matter how far Su went and experienced, the stars always gave comfort to her.

 

[Kassogtha Cthylla]

In the middle of the party there was a circle, and at the center of the circle was Kass. The Pylantian Jedi Master was shamelessly vibing to the rhythm of the drums, her movements resembling a cross between jiggling jelly and an undulating squid.

Though her alien appearance had frightened the locals at first, they had since warmed up to her presence. They still gave her a wide berth, unable to fully trust a creature with so many eyes and mouths, but she was no longer being fearfully prodded with spears and sticks. For her part, Kass rather liked the little Ewoks, their simple lives and primitive dwellings up in the trees.

During a break in the music, she slithered over to where her husband Oukranos was sitting with a few other members of the Firefist Expedition. "These Ewoks really know how to party," she said, all grins and giggles.

Oukranos gave her a small smile. The couple had signed on for the years-long voyage to the Firefist galaxy out of curiosity, but they also hoped that it would give them a fresh start. Things had not gone as planned these past few years, and while there had been blessings visited upon the family, there had been curses as well. With war on the horizon, they had reached an impasse. Kass decided to leave behind her job as Chief Librarian, and Oukranos would no longer teach the younglings. Instead they would act as diplomats and protectors.

A female Sullustan and a Miralukan woman, both part of the expedition team, were seated nearby. Kass didn't know them, but they couldn't stay strangers forever. "Hi," she greeted them both. "I'm Kass. Are you excited about the expedition?"

Sinmara Ves' Su Rov​

 

[Sinmara Ves']

Su Rov - Kassogtha Cthylla​

---

Sinmara turned to face the voice, and was greeted by a confusing mass undulating through her Force vision that was difficult to interpret. She inadvertently made a perplexed face, that was quickly wiped away, "I am, yes." She replied, rediscovering her focus on the question, "There's so much to learn about Firefist that we still don't know. Everything will be new. It's fascinating." The miraluka paused for a moment, before abruptly continuing, "I'm Sinmara. I'm part of the archaeological team."

She looked between Kass and the Sullustan, who had also been enveloped in the conversation, "What do you all do for the Expedition?"

 

[Su Rov]

Kassogtha Cthylla Sinmara Ves'​

Seeing Kass speak to her directly caused Su to blink her dark mouse like eyes a few times. She noticed the strange Jedi much earlier, having seen her species until now. The pilot opened her mouth but failed to speak. While she was skilled in flying, Su could be quite socially awkward, especially with strangers. Additionally she worried about their reaction when they would find out about her criminal past.

They always do.

It was then Sinmara spoke up in answer while the Sullustan looked back and forth to her and Kass. Tin chirped in droidspeak encouraging his partner to speak up for herself. Resisting the urge to look at the astromech she cleared her throat while nodding.

"Y-yes, it is exciting. Never thought I would have the chance but I'm taking it."

Su certainly meant every word of it. Then she fell silent before it dawned on her that she forgot to introduce herself and the Sullustan nervously chuckled.

"Oh my name is Su…Su Rov. I'm a pilot who can handle craft from starfighters, shuttles to light freighters. Oh also I can do mechanic work."

 

[Naivia Neryn]

The sound of rustling leaves like a waterfall of sounds echoed in the sensual soul of Neryn, not the first time she had visited this marvelous planet of Endor. And almost every time she slept in one or another of the villages with Ewoks, she couldn't get used to one seemingly simple thought, almost as in any forest inhabited by a variety of wildlife, there were sometimes disturbances and strange events, so now, with the realization that she would be taking part in a potentially long-term expedition to the satellite galaxy, it was strange for Neryn to observe such a motley array of people, both in dress and physical appearance, as well as in the fields of the force, folding like a blanket or very thin matter in different directions under the influence of the emotional and natural states of the future members of the crew, for it was not just another reminder of a new phase of her life, but a strong sign within the intersection of the webs of destiny of so many individuals.

Listening attentively to the main speeches of the first gathering, Neryn tried to adjust her behavioral pattern, emotionally and psychologically relaxing as she gradually approached the gathering that would be called a large family. Being an overly cheerful and at the same time cautious girl, she combined the skills of an excellent diplomat and cautious introvert, therefore, the first actions, which opened, poetically speaking, a new chapter of personal history, were filled with respect, openness and easy sincerity full of expectations from the new adventures of a white-haired girl with eyeballs under the frosty haze of the color of azure seas. Slightly, as if bouncing in the air, Neryn appeared next to the sullustran, bowed very carefully and briefly, and made some opening remarks. Su Rov
"Hi there! I really, really hope I didn't scare you off with my abrupt appearance, my name is Neryn, and I too will be taking part in this unusual adventure, even if I don't fully realize the scale and complexity of it yet! How are you doing?"
Simultaneously hearing a certain generalizing question, Neryn gently tilted her neck towards the questioner and briefly replied. Sinmara Ves'
"I'm mainly involved in organizing knowledge, all sorts of literature and arts along with exploring new territories and mythical artifacts."

 

[Kassogtha Cthylla]

Kass would take a perplexed reaction over one of disgust any day. The Miralukan introduced herself as Sinmara, part of the archaeological team. The Sullustan, Su, was a pilot and mechanic.

"What do you all do for the Expedition?"

"I work on the diplomacy side of things," she replied. Gesturing to Oukranos with a tentacle, she added, "He's with communications. I say all the right things, and he translates."

Oukranos raised his hand in a small wave of acknowledgment before turning his attention back to his food.

Another individual joined the group, a woman who called herself Neryn. Kass perked up at the mention of organizing knowledge. "Ah, are you an archivist then? Wonderful. I've worked as a librarian for the Jedi Order these past twenty-five years. If you need any help, don't be afraid to ask."

Su Rov Sinmara Ves' Naivia Neryn​

 

[Sinmara Ves']

Kassogtha Cthylla - Su Rov - Naivia Neryn​

"Can't get anywhere without pilots," Sinmara said with a nod. Her voice was soft and sleepy. Already it seemed the Expedition had a diverse array of peoples and skillsets involved. It was a good sign, and it would be good to present a unified front to the natives of Firefist, "Can't do much of anything without diplomats and translators either," She chuckled, offering a wave in greeting to Oukranos.

Another woman appeared a moment later, joining the conversation. Kass seemed to perk up at the mention of archival duties, having been in such a role for the Jedi prior. It was no surprise a Jedi, former or otherwise, would be drawn to this mission, "Are you not with them any longer, or, just changing fields?" She looked around at the celebration, taking in the many senses it offered, "The Ewoks certainly make gracious hosts. Are you all enjoying the evening?"

 

[Su Rov]

Naivia Neryn Kassogtha Cthylla Sinmara Ves'​

So many different people were involved in this endeavor. Then again so was being part of the Alliance Starfighter Corps she reminded herself. At Neryn's approach Su tilted her head briefly in examination of the snow haired woman before replying.

"I'm okay, just relaxing before you know…the big day."

Tin whistled and chirped in droidspeak causing Su to chuckle.

"Well graduating from basic training is not as crazy as adventuring into another galaxy. Still I appreciate the support buddy."

In response the astromech beeped his welcome. Just as he did the Ewoks' cheer grew louder and danced more wildly. Looking to the opposite side of the fire her eyes widened. Coming out from the trees were a swarm of what seemed to be small lights. At first Su thought it was some light bugs but she was quickly proven wrong.

The swarm dive into the party, many circling and flying the Ewoks and their guests, especially the latter. Everyone could hear the new arrivals speaking in squeaky voices of a language common only on this forest moon. It was the Wisties coming to fellowship with their tribal neighbors. Su couldn't hardly keep up with the new chaos before one light got on her right shoulder.

Turning she saw an orange skinned little figure with wings in bright radiance. She looked on with further amazement as the Wistie began to dance and sing in his tongue. Soon the drums were joined by a few flutes, exciting the ever curious and playful Firefolk.

 

[Naivia Neryn]

"And the work of an archivist and not only did not just occupy me in the past, but rather was a side effect of my passion for everything strange and unusual, and if we assume all our life as a light vision of a hunter who wandered into the barn in the middle of the rain and lay down for a few minutes of rest, then in principle everything around us and we ourselves are a real archive of knowledge of the highest quality, although filled with subjective distortions, but it has its own charm and beauty!" Kassogtha Cthylla
Neryn replied sweetly, sitting down next to Su Rov, listening to her chatting with the other members of the planned expedition and almost simultaneously, probably thanks to her heightened sensitivity, noting the culture of the place in every single movement and turn of the bodies of the dancers of different races who had arrived as part of the local festivities, and possibly as helpers or guides on a journey to a neighbouring galaxy, the magnitude of the movement towards which had already instilled in Neryn such a degree of admiration and good old childish excitement that she began to gesticulate vigorously, showing support and purely heartfelt gratitude for the opportunity to follow all that it represented from the almost endless meeting points of the local peoples in the forests of Endor.
"All the most ambiguous and problematic things that are and will come up during this expedition will be one of the most valuable lessons for the future, I think, for everyone. It may sound out of place, but I am sure that not only our professional activities and basic survival skills will be useful for such a long journey, but also our simple ability to fill the atmosphere with dance, music, poetry and good old jokes and anecdotes, because after all, there is something in us that is so demanding and jealous that sometimes requires something exquisite, but most often simple, down-to-earth and therefore even more valuable than all the rich clothes and the fog of economic struggle."
This exclamation was not directed at any one person, but rather expressed Neryn's uplifted state of mind, swaying left and right to the rhythm of the music, wrapping her arms around her legs and smiling brightly and openly, enjoying everything that was happening.

 

[Kassogtha Cthylla]

"Are you not with them any longer, or, just changing fields?"

Kass' eyes all blinked in unison at the question. Then, she laughed. "We are still Jedi. I can't imagine life without the Order." She glanced at Oukranos, certain that he felt the same. But where their views deviated was in which Order they ought to serve. "Times have changed. Things are different from how they used to be. We've done our best to adapt, but... It has been difficult. We are still adjusting, trying to find our place."

Su seemed a relatively quiet person, not saying much. Neryn, on the other hand, talked a great deal. Kass understood about a fifth of what she was saying; she just smiled and bobbed in the Pylantian equivalent of a nod.

They were soon distracted by the arrival of a rowdy group of Wisties. The tiny glowing creatures joined the dancers, performing elaborate tricks. Kass was particularly impressed by the one balancing on a much larger creature's tongue.

"The Ewoks certainly make gracious hosts. Are you all enjoying the evening?"

"Oh, yes!" Kass exclaimed, having to raise her voice to be heard over all the noise. "I can't wait to see Firefist!"

Sinmara Ves' Su Rov Naivia Neryn​

 

[Sinmara Ves']

"That's what tonight is all about," Sinmara said. There was no guarantee how things would go when they were off in Firefist. If there was ever a time to fully indulge oneself, it was now. For her part, Sinmara gained much from simply being in the presence of those celebrating. She fed off the emotions, heightening her own and vicariously absorbing the experiences. That was probably more responsible that going out and getting drunk or doing anything else that might come back to bite her the next day.

Kassogtha clarified her and her husband's continued affiliation with the Jedi. Sinmara nodded, "Perhaps this expedition will be what you're looking for." Soon after, the celebration seemed to attract another of the forest's locals; Small wisp-like beings that seemed to glow in flame. It reminded Sinmara of her collection of thizzle-bugs, though these creatures were notably more sentient. In spite of their ember like appearance, they were safe to interact with, some coming close to or landing on their larger counterparts. "Nice of you to join us," Sinmara said to the wisties. She turned to the others, "Have any of you ever been to Firefist before? I've heard there are a few veterans in our midst."

Kassogtha Cthylla - Su Rov - Naivia Neryn​

 

[Atlas Drake]

"I have."

He lowered the astrometrical sextant which he'd been using to plot a course by dead reckoning the stars over Endor. It was an antique, but sometimes the romantic in him liked to do things the old-fashioned way. His battered old Kathol Navy field jacket had seen better days as had the Glie-44 holstered low against his hip. Streaks of silver through his hair complimented a scoundrel's coy grin in a way that made him seem dashing for his age.

"Captain Atlas Drake," the spacer introduced himself, "Expedition hired me to be your guide out in the deep black."

Memories of Firefist gleamed in Drake's eyes like stardust. He pulled a flask of sullustan gin out from an inside pocket and took a swig before offering to pass it around. Despite Endor's tranquil beauty Atlas still felt the siren call of space tugging against the moon's gravity well. It had been a long time since he lingered in one system for very long.

"I led the second Gossamer expedition back in 855. We used telemetry from that flight to settle a colony moon Footfall ten years later. That was the last time I made the crossing."

Sinmara Ves' Su Rov Kassogtha Cthylla Naivia Neryn​

 

[Su Rov]

Naivia Neryn Kassogtha Cthylla Sinmara Ves' Atlas Drake​

Su was torn between watching the spectacle that surrounded them and subsequent conversation. It was then a new voice that earned her attention. At the sight of the human she actually did recognize with a jaw dropped. Captain Drake himself!

She had heard his name even from her remote village back home. Of course not the details but Su knew enough to know the Captain is a living legend. Just hearing him recount his time at the Firefist galaxy reminded her why. Trying not to be overawed, she forced herself to look toward Sinmara and answer her.

"This will be our first time."

Su gestured with an upward thumb toward Tin before explaining further.

"We flew on some patrols around the Alliance's border to the Unknown Regions but that was the furthest we went."

Of course she has been to other parts of the known galaxy but most of it had been as an outlaw before her military service and now. The memory that she used to help smuggle drugs flooded Su's heart with renewed guilt. So much so that the Sullustan looked away in silent shame toward the flames as the Ewoks and Wisites continued to celebrate.