Kuzon nodded in understanding. Even though those that share a common interest have different focuses. Instead of disappointment, the Bothan was rather excited to recite this ancient master tale.
"Before his final stand during the Great Galactic War Belth Allusis was known as a brave selfless servant of the force who embodied the virtues of the Order. This included politeness to others and his humility including in attire."
He displayed a page of hooded Allusis talking in a hallway with a young Jedi knight who had her bowed head, struggling with grief. Subsequently Kuzon resumed.
"Of course I found out to my amazement that as a member of the High Council he had quite the sense of humor and a sharp tongue to match it. Reputedly this was said to have constantly eased tension in council meetings."
Inwardly Kuzon took that as a reminder that humor can help even in the most dire of situations.
"The future grandmaster of the Order, Satele Shan years later reflected that Master Allusis was a champion of lost causes. This was demonstrated during the second battle of Bothawui in that war. Following an earlier Republic victory in Bothan space most of their forces withdrew before the inevitable Sith retaliation came. Yet a small garrison under Master Allusis stayed behind to defend the world. Besides him there was eighty four Jedi Knights and four thousand Republic troopers."
Another page followed, displaying a now unhooded Allusis, gray bearded and long haired rallying the defenders with a clenched fist and determined eyes looking out into the distance. In the background behind them was a massive installation surrounded by military defense lines.
"Soon the Sith returned with an army of fifty thousand strong. Yet due to the planetary shield generator they weren't able to use their navy for an orbital bombardment and so were forced to attack said generator that was heavily fortified. No relief force coming to save yet them and realistic about their chances the defenders made the Sith pay dearly in the siege that followed. The latter cruelly and recklessly threw their forces into one frontal assault after another only to be countered by the clever tactics of their foes. For every single defender who died each took ten enemies with them."
The next sketch showed Republic soldiers in a trench firing at the Imperials as several saber wielding Jedi jumped in engaging the charging enemy troopers and crimson guardsmen. Sighing Kuzon then confessed with saddened eyes as if he witnessed what followed.
"Despite their bravery and cleverness the Republic garrison slowly but surely whittled down until there was only a handful left with Master Allusis while the Sith were able to bring in reinforcements. As they were cornered Grand Moff Zellos of the Sith Empire appeared before them, offering fair treatment if Allusis and his brave followers would surrender. They refused outright.”
Subsequently Roman would see an annoyed and prideful officer in an imperial style uniform called out to the Jedi master some distance away in the storm. Looking his colleague in the eyes Kuzon concluded, quoting Jedi Historian Gnost-Dural.
"Neither pride nor foolhardiness drove the defenders' decision. They were guided by the Force. They had passed beyond the fear of death. Their glorious last stand will never be forgotten."
The final sketch showed Master Belth Allusis lying face down in the mud with his fallen comrades all around him, still raining.
Tag:
Roman Vossari
