Private Greener Pastures

[Amani Serys]

Batuu once had a reputation as the gateway to Wild Space. The last stop in the rim before heading out for the unknown. Though that reputation deteriorated somewhat following the advent of hyperlanes, it remained an ever-present landmark of the Western Reaches, filled with curiosities from all across the galaxy. Which is why Amani saw fit to begin preliminary relief efforts there.

Most recently, Batuu had been under the influence of the Brotherhood of the Maw. Now that they were scattered, their former territory needed assistance from more benevolent sources. Amani hoped that by beginning work here, the work could then disperse out more naturally across the region. It was just one of many operations that would seek to reintegrate Maw worlds back into the civilized galaxy.

The Chief Healer watched the tasks already underway. Volunteers both foreign and local hauling supplies; Some of it staying, some of it being transferred to other nearby worlds. Given her current condition, Amani was primarily focused on management rather than physical labor. Important work, no doubt, but it did make her feel guilty about standing around, talking, and staring at a datapad while most others were busting their backs. Something she was about to feel even more guilty about, as she spotted an untouched crate on the ground; One marked for transfer to a nearby system.

"Ahem," Amani cleared her throat, seeking the attention of the nearest individual: a woman, it seemed, clad in unmistakable armor, "Excuse me. Would mind helping with this? I can't really… do it myself…" She exchanged an apologetic smile, and rubbed a palm over her slightly protruding belly.

Minerva Fhirdiad​

 

[Minerva Fhirdiad]

​

Tag: Amani Serys

Didn't expect this kind of assignment. Thought Minerva, glancing around the landing as she stood guard by several transports.

In all honesty the Mandalorian was rather surprised herself in the fact she was still with the Galactic Alliance even after the war was over. The Maw were crushed and the Empire collapsed, the two states she had a vendetta against were no more. Closing her eyes underneath the helm Minerva sighed.

The Enclave has fallen as well. I have nothing to return for. Hopefully my vod will rise again in honor but until then I will tread on my own path.

Eyes opened once more she observed an astromech drive a forklift carrying two heavy crates with one on top of the other. Subsequently she decided to check with one of her squad-mates on the comms.

"Gakot how are things on your end?"

Quickly she was given an reply by a Klatooinian voice

"The perimeter is secured on the east me and the rookies are now patrolling the western flank. Irni is keeping watch to the south from the ruined tower there. As for Stitches he is still getting his med kit prepped."

Snorting at the last statement Minerva remarked.

"I'm not surprised with him. As soon as he learned there is a refugee camp here the good doctor couldn't help himself but volunteer with the healers.”

"For an uptight Chagrian he has such a big heart for civvies." Answered Gakot in a mixture of bemusement and respect that Minerva shared about their squad medic.

"Indeed. Carry on Gakot and try not to intimidate our new members…too much."

A deep chuckle was uttered on the other end.

"Copy that sarge."

Once the call ended Minerva was about to resume her watch when she heard someone nearby. Turning to the left side her t-visor revealed a Mirialan woman. It took Minerva a few moments to realize it was the chief healer for this relief effort and more so that she was pregnant when rubbing her stomach. At the latter's request the armored warrior put up her blaster rifle and came over. Getting on her knees Minerva grabbed ahold of it with both arms then with a grunt lifted the thing up.

"Alright where ya want this to go?"

 

[Amani Serys]

"Uhhh-" Amani glanced down and checked the crate's tag, "Oh. Should be… Just over here," She gestured to a freighter that was set for another planet, and began walking in that direction, "Just set it in the bay if you could, the crew will take care of it from there."

Along the way, Amani spared a few glances at the woman, studying her armor. She abruptly asked, "You're with the security detail, right?" An easy enough assumption to make, but it was more for the sake of conversation, "Got a name?"

Minerva Fhirdiad​

 

[Minerva Fhirdiad]

Tag: Amani Serys

Following the Jedi's instructions she walked alongside the former. Minerva nodded when asked if she was with security. Even while occupied with carrying the crate, she noticed the green woman kept looking at her with obvious curiosity. Not exactly something new in her experience Minerva silently admitted. Especially when one is wearing Mandalorian armor.

For a moment Minerva thought the Jedi would bring it up but instead asked for her name. Mildly surprised, she cleared her throat.

"Minerva…Minerva Fhirdiad and yes I'm a Mandalorian."

One of the most frustrating things in life was when some people confused her as a common bounty hunter instead of a Mandalorian warrior. Not that she had a problem with the profession but it is rather annoying that some people confuse the two being the same thing. Thankfully her new acquaintance didn't do that. Just as the pair were entering the bay Minerva spoke up again. This time with her own questions.

"You're the Jedi in charge of this whole thing, correct? What's your name?"

 

[Amani Serys]

Amani nodded slowly, figuring out as much. Minerva must have been asked that question a lot. It was the mirialan's turn to introduce herself, "That's right. Amani Serys-Organa. I'm the Chief Healer for the New Jedi Order," She said with a pleasant smile, "I appreciate you coming along to help. It's good to meet you."

They stepped into the ship's cargo bay, where crewmen were doing repairs and moving around other supply containers to eventually be tied down for transport. A burly besalisk approached Minerva, already hauling one crate and offering to take the one she had delivered off her hands. Amani gave him an appreciative nod, before turning back to the Mando, "Is Fhirdiad your clan, then? Apologies, I'm not exactly an expert on Mandalorian culture, but I've met a few in my travels."

Minerva Fhirdiad​

 

[Minerva Fhirdiad]

Tag: Amani Serys

Admittedly Minerva blinked inside her helm when hearing the surname Organa. She didn't need to be a political expert to know who the House of Organa were considering their legacy. Must be either adopted by the family or was married into. The warrior concluded when they were stopped by the besalisk crewman who silently offered to take the crate.

Nodding gratitude Minerva handed it over to him. At Amani's next question she paused momentarily. Quickly though she replied when looking back at the Jedi.

"Well truth be told I have no clan. Of course if I earn the right I would forge a clan bearing that name or join another or marry into it assuming I find the right partner."

Gesturing for Amani to follow her out of the bay Minerva walked on. Side by side again the warrior explained further.

"The name wasn't originally Mandalorian…I was adopted and raised by Jorel of Clan Merrik. He was a close friend of my birth parents, the Fhirdiads. I never really knew them before their passing but my Buir(Father) held them in such esteem that he encouraged me to keep their surname."

She stopped for a few moments while a young Bith volunteer ran in front of her and Amani. Watching him go, Minerva reflected on what she just revealed. It wasn't every day that she talked about it to most people, much less a Jedi acquaintance. Not that Minerva was ashamed or anything but it was just not something that came up often. A lot of outsiders seemed to just see the armor and nothing else when it came to talking with her.

It's only natural.

During those lonely times Minerva would often miss the company of her vod and reminisce. Yet glancing back at the Jedi she somehow could tell this one was sincere. Deciding at that moment she wanted to change the subject Minerva asked.

"Considering your own surname I'm guessing that you're married to House Organa or adopted perhaps."

 

[Amani Serys]

Minerva dropped off the cargo, and together they spun around to head right back out into the main square. Amani frowned sympathetically as she listened to the Mandalorian's story, "I'm sorry to hear. That's a nice way to honor them." They kept walking, past several other workers, before Amani naturally slowed to a stop in front of a makeshift "hub" of sorts. Where a few rectangular crates had been laid out as if they were desks, and the mission's more administrative-types were busy clacking away on datapads and terminals.

"Considering your own surname I'm guessing that you're married to House Organa or adopted perhaps."

Amani smiled sheepishly. It was easy enough to assume; Most people didn't associate the Organa name with a Mirialan appearance, "You would be right. Married. My husband is Senator Alicio Organa," She laid a palm on her belly, smiling subconsciously at the thought of their growing family.

"So what brings you on this mission? Did you volunteer or, were you assigned?" Amani suddenly asked, curious.

Minerva Fhirdiad​

 

[Minerva Fhirdiad]

Tag: Amani Serys

"Assigned." Minerva answered with a shrug of the shoulders.

From appearances this mission may seem rather beneath a hardened warrior like herself. Yet even though the Maw has been dealt a severe blow it's remnants could pose a threat to relief operations in this part of the galaxy.

Better safe than sorry is what they're probably thinking. The Jedi can handle themselves but added security by Alliance troops is also good PR especially since the senate will be reexamining the military's budget if they weren't already. Perhaps it wasn't a coincidence that Command made sure there were soldiers to assist the Chief Jedi Healer who happened to be a senator's wife as well.

Not that Minerva really cared about the political machinations as long as she is able to do something that is worthwhile. If it meant babysitting Jedi charity efforts then so be it. Looking over to Amani's belly Minerva found herself smiling inside the helmet. Life finds a way whether in war or peace.

"When is your child due?" She asked, wondering if it will be weeks or months from now.

 

[Amani Serys]

Amani nodded, and set aside a stack of files and datapads so she could lean on one of the makeshift desks. She was still fairly early into her pregnancy, but carrying around a child was already putting on the strain. Especially because, though she didn't know it yet, she was actually carrying two children with her.

Despite the inconveniences, talking about her baby instantly put a smile on Amani's face, "Six or seven months now. We'll be getting the first ultrasound in a few weeks. I'm excited. And nervous," A first-time pregnancy was brimming with all kinds of emotions. She hardly knew what to do with herself.

After a pause, Amani turned the attention back to Minerva, "I hope you don't mind me asking, but, I don't see many actual mandalorians in the defense force. What brought you to the Alliance?"

Minerva Fhirdiad​

 

[Minerva Fhirdiad]

Tag: Amani Serys

Minerva stayed silent at Amani's answers. Leaning on another makeshift desk the armored woman crossed her arms over the chest in thought. Family is one of the cornerstones of her adopted culture but in honesty she lately hadn't given much thought on the possibility of being a mother herself. Mostly because she had been more focused on fighting as a warrior. Yet now in the face of the Jedi's joy and nervousness it made her somewhat anxious too and a little bit envious.

Whether I give birth or adopt my own children in the future I want to do right by them, whoever they will be. Not only to raise them to be strong, brave and honorable but to know love as well.

Soon those thoughts drifted to the vision of a woman who looked similarly to her smiling in spite of the immense pain she was in. Freezing at the sight she quickly came out of it when asked the next question and welcomed it.

Shrugging again she answered.

"The short answer is because the Alliance and I shared common enemies, the Maw and the Imperials."

Amani would quickly sense the fury raging in the Mandalorian's soul toward the two mentioned factions before it lessened. Realizing that she had been squeezing her hands into fists, Minerva loosen her grip.

"Of course now the former are defeated and the latter's empire has collapsed but I don't have anywhere else to go. My people are scattered and divided once again so I stay with the Alliance military until I change my mind or something."

 

[Amani Serys]

Amani shrugged, frowning slightly as she picked up on Minerva's anger rising at the mere mention of their old enemies, "Fair enough," There were a lot of people feeling a bit directionless now that the wars had subsided. Even Amani herself felt odd, realizing she didn't have to worry about the next big battle or offensive. Not that she could complain, when the result was peace.

"Well you'll always have a place in the Alliance. You ever try to reconnect with some of your people?" Amani picked up a datapad, which pinged to notify her about a developing situation. She cocked her head to the side, "Whoops— Gotta go help some of the refugees on the edge of town. You mind coming?" They'd need a bit of security presence anyway.

Minerva Fhirdiad​

 

[Minerva Fhirdiad]

Tag: Amani Serys

"Yea sure. It beats counting crates." Minerva answered to the Mirialan woman. While they were leaving she made a call.

"Gakot I'm gonna run an escort detail to the refugee camp. You're in charge till I get back."

The Klatooinian's response was swift.

"Roger, that boss. Ya want me to get ya ride too?"

Good thinking Minerva concluded but instead replied.

"Do it. Have it for us at the front gate as soon as possible and…Gakot stay sharp."

"As always, boss."

Once the call was done she explained it to Amani.

"One of my boys will be picking us up soon at the front gate."

Passing several aid workers, organic and droids alike Minerva led the way for her charge. She had done some bodyguard details in the past but definitely the first time with a Jedi healer. Minerva couldn't help but reflect on what Amani had said earlier.

"I haven't reached out for some time. Maybe an opportunity will come in the future."

Going through the entrance point with multiple Jedi, medical and military staff working or talking with one another. Once they stepped outside the pair were greeted the dirt road with dozens of beings moving about on foot, mount and various vehicles. A blue painted freighter ascended out of a nearby docking bay and flew overhead. Giving it the briefest of glances when the speeder with one of her troopers at the controls came from the side and stopped in front of them. Seeing it was Rhon the freckle-faced blond haired newbie Minerva nodded. Stepping inside she sat down in one of the backseats.

"Where to ma'am?" The driver asked Amani in a heavy Corellian accent.

 

[Amani Serys]

Amani relayed to one of the other workers that she would be splitting from the town to check in with the refugee camp. After that, she and Minerva were off, and would even be getting a ride, "Oh, perfect." The mirialan may have been relatively early into her pregnancy, but even now lugging around two babies made everything just a little bit harder. A walk all the way down to the camp would have been a real pain.

"Well, if so, perhaps you should take it."

The speeder pulled up right on time as they came to the edge of town. Amani stepped in beside Minerva, "Refugee camp, just southwest of here," It wouldn't take too long on a vehicle. Once they were headed that way, she leaned back against the headrest and sighed, enjoying the break while she had it, "There's gonna be a lot of this going forward." The war was over, which meant they now needed to worry about cleaning up the mess. And it was a big mess.

Minerva Fhirdiad​

 

[Minerva Fhirdiad]

Tag: Amani Serys

The speeder was on the move again. Engine whining Minerva sat back, taking in the neighborhoods they were passing. A band of flute players performed on a street corner while various merchants and customers carried on at numerous stalls. Not that everyone seemed happy but she could tell the atmosphere is more hopeful than before. The end of great wars tends to have that effect, the Mandalorian quietly admitted from what she was taught.

For now it is here at least. Who is to say the next war hasn't already begun somewhere without us being aware? Regardless, I will continue to honor the ways of my people both in combat and without.

Of course years ago when she left the Enclave it had been with a heavy heart…Even now Minerva felt a tingle of bitterness and gritted her teeth in renewed frustration. She had pledged her life to that cause, fighting and bleeding for their people's future only for the Enclave to fall apart however slowly following the Quartermaster's death. The warrior had not been there to see the collapse but the thought of it still tasted of ash in her mouth.

Crossing her arms Minerva pondered on the fact that Amani was urging her to seek out her vod. If she was more honest, what happened to the Enclave burdened her soul and had made the Mandalorian hesitant to look the future until now. Fighting battles against foes proved to be more preferable in comparison. Yet within her mind what the Jedi advised wouldn't fade away.

Suppressing the urge to swear at her frustrations she instead asked.

"So what's your husband like? He must've proven himself worthy to have earned your affections."

 

[Amani Serys]

Amani rested her eyes for a bit, though her mind couldn't quell the constant stream of thoughts. From one problem to the next, there was lot to be sorted out. Her lips twisted, discontent with the lack of relaxation she was finding, until Minerva's voice brought her focus back to the present. She peeked open her eyes to glance at the Mandalorian, and smiled before closing her eyes again.

"Well, he's a senator like I said. Usually a red flag for me but— He's different. We share a lot of the same values," Amani found herself mentally transported back to those times when they first met, "It was just after the battle on Tython. Tython is where I was raised. Seeing it so broken was… hard. But Alicio was overseeing one of the first relief missions in the wake of the battle. I was working late nights at the camp to do what I could, and then in comes this fancy Organa guy… and he starts helping me finish up." She chuckled, "Maybe I was just a bit nihilistic in the moment, but I didn't expect someone in his position, of all people, to actually get their hands dirty. We talked and… I started to get the sense that this was just actually who he was."

Her eyes fluttered open at last, and she straightened up as the speeder started to slow down, "So I guess I developed a bit of a crush, yeah. He invited me to Alderaan soon after, to see a park he had developed in commemoration of Tython. That night, things kinda just… fell into place. And the rest is history."

Minerva Fhirdiad​

 

[Minerva Fhirdiad]

Tag: Amani Serys

Seeing Amani light up as she describes Alico and how they first met and what it led to Minerva paused. Deep within the Mandalorian she felt a twitch of envy for their love, something she hadn't really known herself. To be sure she had gone on some few casual dates back in the Enclave but nothing lasting came of those experiences. At the same time Minerva couldn't help but smile at what the Jedi now had. Judging by the hints Amani gave she had suffered much beforehand but the warrior chose not to pry.

"That is a blessing worth more than any credits. Heh, most Aruetii usually see our ferocity either as allies or foes yet those of us who are true Mandalorians cherish our loved ones. To love, to enjoy ourselves and to live and die with honor is as important to our creed as is to fight as warriors."

Just as she finished saying that Rhon stopped the speeder in front of the refugee camp.

"Here we are. Your orders boss?"

Minerva was quick to answer with a snort. "You're no taxi driver Rhon. We've need the extra hands so come on."

Nodding Rhon swung his rifle keeping it on the shoulders as he parked the speeder. As for the Mandalorian she got out from her side and kept the speeder door open for Amani to exit from too.

 

[Amani Serys]

Amani nodded with a sense of knowing, "I understand your people consider clan relations to be of utmost importance," She had met a few Mandalorians in her time, and it was one of the things that stuck out to her. Still her tone was almost questioning, leaving the space for Minerva to confirm it herself, without Amani making a presumptuous statement on the culture.

The speeder came to a complete stop, and Amani carefully made her way out. They had arrived at the camp. It was a large clearing in a wooded area, decorated by tents and shelters. Refugees from various parts of the Unknown Regions wandered around, talked, or warmed up at a central campfire. Many drew their attention to the recently arrived vehicles, "One of these should have some food in the back. We need to disperse it among the people here."

Minerva Fhirdiad​

 

[Minerva Fhirdiad]

Tag: Amani Serys

Earlier Minerva gave a nod at Amani's statement about the value of clans to Mandaloarians. Well most of them anyway but it was another story entirely. Looking out to the camp the warrior titled her helm. She had seen settlements like this before since a child wandering the galaxy with her father. Yet a number of the refugees appeared to have a glint of determination rather than the usual despair and fear that besieged souls.

While the war's end hadn't brought back their homes and nor restored their old lives back, optimism however cautious was taking effect. Case in point she noticed on the edge of camp a few kids, three humans, four Rattataki and two of unknown species kicking a ball back and forth to each other while yelling or laughing. Inside the helm a brief grin surfaces on Minerva's face before returning attention to Amani when she pointed out to the aid vehicles. At the healer's comment she nudged Rhon.

"Ya hear her, let's see what we can do."

Rhon shrugged his shoulders. He never thought of doing this kind of work when joining the military but life does take quite twists sometimes. The young soldier ran ahead toward the crowd growing with anticipation.

Staying close to her charge Minerva remarked.

"Rhon is a rookie but he is showing a lot of promise and willingness to adapt. He just needs to stick to it and the boy will make himself a fine warrior especially with those quick reflexes of his."

 

[Amani Serys]

Amani led them to the back, where a stockpile of food and some other basic amenities had been loaded in. A few refugees had started to gather around, curious and eager to see what had been brought. One of them, a middle aged human man, approached first. The Chief Healer seemed to recognize him, and nodded to Minerva to let her know it was fine, just in case, "He's taken up a leadership role among the refugees. He'll help us."

The man approached and dipped his head in ackowledgedment, then Amani did the same. His features were weathered, and his hair a bit scraggly, making him seem older than he actually was. But he put some effort into appearing a little well-kept, at least compared to many of the other refugees. "We've got some food, water, and blankets here. If you could help get them to start lining up, that would really smooth the process. Children first. Then elderly. Then the rest." The man nodded again, and began spreading the message.

Amani looked to Rhon when Minerva spoke about him, and smiled faintly, "This is what it's all about, at the end of the day. What we're fighting for."

Minerva Fhirdiad​

 

[Minerva Fhirdiad]

Tag: Amani Serys

What we're fighting for… Minerva repeated Amani's last words in her mind.

Earlier she had already told the Jedi her own reasons for fighting the Maw and the Empire. Yet even knowing so Amani did make that statement, including her in it. The warrior found that rather surreal although her Jedi charge didn't give any hint of deceit. Looking out to the growing line of refugees before them Minerva bore a pondering expression.

As a member of the defense force I am legally bound to protect innocents. Still I didn't need Alliance regulations to do that since honor already compels me. Although I admit this is different from saving orphans during or after combat. Perhaps I had started to fight for their future as well.

Seeing Rhon walk by and flashing a big grin to a young lady of his age in the middle of the line Minerva rolled her eyes. Both in amusement and annoyance. As long as he does his job she won't drag him out by the ear. The Corellian went by the side of the line standing in a sentry-like posture. As for herself she remained beside Amani with arms folded over the chest area.

Soon enough a twelve year old Rattataki boy wearing a bluish makeshift outfit with sewing patches all over stepped forward first but he wasn't alone. Gripping his right hand was a near-human girl with short tannish hair and somewhat chaff complexion no more than seven years old. Seeing Amani the latter grinned, exclaiming to the boy.

"Brother it is the Green Lady! Like I told you she would be here."

The boy patiently answered. "Yes Liaa you were right."

Excited at being proven right Liaa said to Amani.

"You're so pretty. How do I get your kind of hair?"

"Liaa not now!" The brother chided in a loud whisper somewhat embarrassed by his sibling as he waited. Liaa groaned outloud.

"But Telem, I want to know how to be pretty too."

"You are pretty just as you are." Minerva spoke up, quickly earning the pair's attention. Before she could add anything else Liaa with her jaw dropped was quick to reply.

"Wait, this droid is not a droid!"

"Liaa please!"

Laughing Minerva came down to one knee. Subsequently she took off the helmet, revealing deep brown eyes and black hair at mild length. Both Amani and the kids would note the scar cut across the bridge of her nose and to the upper right cheek with another but more older one etched onto the left side. Despite it she smiled warmly.

"See flesh and blood just like you little one. I imagine you have a mountain of questions but the green lady here needs to give out things that your family needs. So you can be a big helper?"

Pausing Liaa looked back at Minerva, then Amani and finally her brother before nodding.

"Okay, sorry I just got so excited."

Sighing with relief the brother finally turned back to the Jedi Healer, confessing.

"There is only us and our mom. She couldn't be here because she's trying to find work in town. We've take what you can spare."