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Post by Whill Shaman Xixo on Feb 27, 2013 16:36:01 GMT -8
*Haruun Kal appeared to be an oceanic world from space. However, this "ocean" was in fact a sea of toxic gases brought to the surface by volcanic activity, and broken by mountains and plateaus. Only the landmasses that reached into the atmosphere could support life, and thus it was high in these mountains and plateaus where native life evolved. All electronics on the planet had to be rubbed down with portaak amber to prevent the planet's various metal-eating and silicate-eating fungi from destroying them; even with the amber, electronics were somewhat vulnerable.*
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Morgan Calmcacil
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Post by Morgan Calmcacil on Apr 21, 2013 12:25:48 GMT -8
*Run she did, deeper into the jungle. Lokay clung onto her shoulder for dear life as she ran, trying to put the city as far behind her as possible. Whatever was going on there, she wasn't interested in being involved. She barely noticed that it was somehow hotter in the jungle than it was in the city. All she cared about was making sure no one saw her and no one could follow her.
She ran, leapt over roots, dashing past as many trees as she could as though losing potential pursuers. She also tried to make as much progress in the direction of the Temple as possible, at least by her estimations, before finally she stopped, leaning back against a tree and sliding to the ground, breathing deeply and heavily.
Wow, she'd forgotten just how much energy a run like that took out of her when she wasn't on Felucia and feeding on the energies of the planet itself to give her added endurance. Well, there was that run on Dagobah several months ago, but that one had been far more intense and lengthy anyway. Granted, this recent run wasn't quite a short one either, but nowhere near as long as the run on Dagobah.
Finally, after several moments, Morgan's breathing lessened in intensity and she started to relax. But now she had no clue where she was... In retrospect, perhaps this hadn't been the brightest idea. Here she was, alone in a strange jungle, in the middle of a world with a taint of darkness upon it, and she had no clue which was the way back to the city. Perhaps she should follow her senses—
Faint growling, somewhat distant, but close enough. Lokay immediately tensed, neck curling inward as he peered out at the jungle. Morgan was immediately to her feet, hand at her lightsaber, searching the trees with both her eyes and her senses. She was on her own on this one; she wouldn't be able to tap into both the Force and the creature's connection with the world in attempt to tame it before it attacked. She would either have to escape... or kill the beast. Or preferably scare it off; she didn't like killing creatures.
It was approaching from directly in front of her. Good, no surprise. It alternated between slow movements, then sudden leaps forward. Something in the trees? Now she thought of it, she could hear the rustling of leaves as branches brushed against each other. Morgan's gaze went high. If she'd known this, she might've gone for her bow instead, since she could spot the most likely places it would land. Then she could shoot when she saw it. But now she had no time to prepare, so she unclipped her lightsaber and held it at the ready...
There. With a roar, it appeared on a nearby brush. A vine cat. Her green blade came to life, but now it occurred to her she was in a very dangerous position. Not just because she was facing a vine cat in a strange jungle, but now she had to protect Lokay. She was sure the vine cat would see the tailring as a nice little snack. Probably thought the same of Morgan as well. But neither of them would be food if she could help it.
With a screech, it leapt to the ground, where it began to circle towards Morgan. Morgan wasn't about to let it corner her, so she started to complement the circle, the vine cat prowling on all fours as it stared down Morgan, a hungry rumble reverberating in its throat. Morgan circled, both hands on her weapon, shoulder with Lokay turned away from the vine cat. The tailring himself was cowering slightly away from the predator, but keeping his tiny eyes on the creature nonetheless.
Morgan began to tap into the Force inside and around her, doing her best to draw in energy in preparation for a counterattack. Just in time too, for the vine cat suddenly completely faced Morgan and pounced. Morgan removed one hand from her lightsaber and thrust her hands forward, shoving the vine cat backward with the Force. The wave hit the creature and upended it, somersaulting backwards before landing on its feet and sliding backwards. It growled at Morgan, but Morgan only glared back at it, refusing to yield to it. It roared once more, and leapt at Morgan...*
*Blam!*
*A gunshot caught the vine cat in the side of the head, sending it spinning away much like the Force push. Morgan jumped back and looked around for the source, hoping whoever fired it wasn't targeting her as well. The vine cat was still alive, but had a small, charred wound in its hide. It looked around for the source of the attack, growling again, but another shot fired, catching it directly in the first wound. With a final yelp accompanied by a splatter of blood, the vine cat fell over, hissed a dying breath, and no longer moved.*
=???=
Is this really how Balawai look after their children?
*Morgan turned towards the direction of the voice, and there from the shadows emerged a dark-skinned man wielding a rifle of some kind. His expression seemed to be disdainful, but not of Morgan. She lowered her lightsaber, deactivating it, looking up at the man with a tilted head.*
Balawai?
*The man suddenly raised his hands exasperatedly, then gestured at her with one open hand.*
=Man=
See? They don't even teach you what you are. And those clothes too—
*Now that was where Morgan drew the line. Looking indignant suddenly, she took a step forward and pointed at the man.*
Hey! A nice woman from a Felucian village made this specially for me, and I love it, more than my regular clothes!
*The man's eyebrows raised, and he took a step back, raising his hands defensively, though looked mildly impressed.*
=Man=
Woah, you've got some spirit. I'll give you that, kid.
*He lowered his hands, planting them harmlessly upon his rifle.*
=Man=
Didn't mean to offend. Felucia, huh? Guess that means you're not from around here?
*He suddenly seemed a whole lot nicer, whoever he was. His eyes seemed slightly larger than the average pair of eyes, his cheekbones were more pronounced, and his hair was visible, but mostly shaven. Morgan shook her head.*
No, I didn't mean to come here. I got lost on a ship and ended up here, and I was going to the Jedi Temple to find a way home. But there was a fight or something in the city, so I ran into the jungle for safety.
*The man suddenly cocked an eyebrow.*
=Man=
Shee, sweetheart, the city would have been far more safer.
*... that wasn't exactly what Morgan had wanted to hear.*
=Man=
But you're far away from the Jedi Temple, that much I can tell you. I know where it is, and most of all, I know the jungle. Just slipped your jiffies off the roaster, didn't I?
*He flashed a grin, but Morgan was just confused. "Jiffies off the roaster"? She'd never heard that one before. Wait, this was completely irrelevant, for he seemed to be offering what she hoped he was offering. Her eyes widened hopefully.*
Can you take me there? Please?
*The man laughed, a kind, friendly laugh, before nodding.*
=Man=
Of course I can. No way I would leave someone as small as yourself to die out here. Name's Mesh. What's yours?
*Morgan smiled, grateful for the help; she could sense no ill intent nor falsity in his words or demeanor either.*
I'm Morgan, and this is Lokay.
*Mesh's eyes focused upon the little dragon on Morgan's shoulder with genuine interest.*
=Mesh=
Never seen anything like Lokay before.
*Morgan grinned, happy there was at least something she could explain to the native of this world, instead of having to learn everything from him.*
He's a tailring! They're good pets, and they eat mynocks. He ate a whole bunch that snuck into a hospital one time!
*Mesh's eyes darkened for a moment at the mention of "hospital," drawing a concerned look from Morgan, but he quickly reverted to his former, friendly expression instantly.*
=Mesh=
I'd like to get me one of them someday. Well, Morgan, I suppose we oughta get moving then, huh?
*Morgan nodded, clipping her lightsaber back to her belt finally. She fell into step beside Mesh as he led her onward, who began to ask her what she knew about Haruun Kal, then proceeded to explain the history of the world to her, describe the world and scenery as they passed it by, as well as anything else she was curious about...*
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Arden Brandwyn
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Visiting an old friend
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Post by Arden Brandwyn on Apr 30, 2013 17:32:52 GMT -8
Life went on as normal inside the Jedi Temple of the CUF. Droids and troops made their rounds, padawans continued their training and the council chambers sat empty as the masters were all away on other business. BoB was one of the droids making rounds, he considered himself the head droid since he belonged to Master Brandwyn who had been one of the founders and longest member of the CUF, besides Master Shan one of the other founders and leading members of the council. BoB made his rounds, beeping out orders and other instructions to all those working in the temple. He was planning yo have the troops remodel a few things, do some painting and other things to make the temple more inviting.
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Post by The Corruption on May 1, 2013 18:01:07 GMT -8
Mesh was walking with the young girl, describing the world and the scenery as they passed it by, but there was one thing that consistently avoided his notice. One thing that had avoided the notice of both the Korunnai and the off-worlder. One thing that had avoided the notice of most of the sentients of this world, a feat that was amazing considering how much progress it had made in the years it had been waiting.
Far away from civilization, the jungles of Haruun Kal hid a dark secret, one that shone brightly like a great blue star. Beautiful to behold, terrifying in its emotionless inferno, consuming all that it touched, but warming all that which accepted it.
The two travelers observed the jungle. They had no idea that a central intelligence had risen up within the jungle, all of it reporting back to the same location, everything in that location reporting back to the same entity.
She had waited. She had waited for an offworlder to breach the territory she had long since claimed for herself. Now, at long last, one had finally dared venture out of the safe confines of the city and into the untamed wild that was her chosen domain.
The Corruption watched their every move. The Guardian ruled this land. The Harbinger had pinned her here. But fate had now handed her a way out. A way that she could leave this world, yet still remain its protector.
The innocent always made such fine prey...
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Morgan Calmcacil
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Post by Morgan Calmcacil on May 1, 2013 18:14:35 GMT -8
*Morgan hadn't changed her mind about Felucia's jungle being more dangerous than Haruun Kal's. But Haruun Kal's was certainly more complex. Mesh had quickly introduced something called "portaak amber" to her, suggesting she rub her lightsaber with it, even the inside. When Morgan asked why, Mesh, after a sarcastic inquiry of what people were teaching her, explained that it prevented metal-eating fungi from damaging weapons.
Morgan, not wanting to lose her precious lightsaber that she'd worked so hard to build, had immediately accepted the amber and coated her lightsaber with it, before opening it up and carefully applying it to the insides as well. It certainly was sticky, but curiously did not rub off on her hands, so she couldn't complain. She thanked Mesh for the amber and handed it back to him, grateful she didn't have any other metallic objects to protect. Lokay, meanwhile, had been sniffing the amber-coated hilt, and even licked it. Then his head trembled with disgust at the taste, and he immediately drew his head away, as though afraid it might somehow reach his mouth again.
Then Mesh began to teach Morgan about the culture of his people, the Korunnai, how they were herdsmen, relying on their people and their creatures to help them survive. He spoke of grassers, large bovines, that ate trees and cleared out the jungle, creating paths or clearings. He spoke of akk dogs, reptomammals that herded the grassers and bonded to a Korunnai for life. He spoke of how a Korunnai's life was always against the jungle, just trying to find a way to survive.*
Do you have a tribe, Mesh?
*A sullen expression seemed to cross the Korun's countenance for a moment.*
=Mesh=
Did. Once. Our own group of people, our own grassers and akk dogs, leaning on each other, surviving with each other's aid.
*Morgan could already tell where this was going. She waited for him to continue, but he did not. Perhaps it was too painful... or perhaps he just didn't wish to reveal more information than he should to an outsider, even a child. She was almost afraid to ask her next question, but she wished to know regardless.*
Did you have your own akk dog?
*Mesh shook his head.*
=Mesh=
Nope. Never bonded with one. And when the Balawai killed my people, I never had a chance to.
*Morgan frowned, her suspicions confirmed regarding the fate of his people. The Balawai... The Korunnai's generic term for offworlders, like herself. Specifically, offworlders that make their home in the cities, that try to strip the jungle for its resources. That have fought and killed Korunnai just to be able to do so. The "Summertime War," Mesh had called it. According to him, it was supposed to have ended when the great Jedi Master Mace Windu had overseen negotiations between the Korunnai and Balawai to create a centralized democracy on the planet, in hopes of rendering everyone equal. But that hadn't lasted forever, and while some tried to cling together what they could, the wars in the jungles had only continued.*
I'm... so sorry...
*It was all Morgan thought to say, but Mesh only shrugged, eyes looking anywhere but near her.*
=Mesh=
Not your fault.
*Silence ensued. Morgan watched Mesh for a few moments as they walked, then looked towards the ground thoughtfully. Mesh never spoke well of the Balawai, and always seemed to hold some contempt for them when he mentioned them or their acts. And yet...*
But... I'm a Balawai...
*She slowly looked up at him, eyes wide with concern and curiosity.*
... so why are you helping me?
*Mesh stopped, causing Morgan to stop as well. He didn't move, didn't look at Morgan for several moments, simply staring straight forward. His expression was tense, his posture stiff. Emotions were cycling through him, many emotions, as though all were appropriate but he couldn't pick only one to exhibit at that moment. Finally, his posture relaxed as he lowered his head, exhaling through his nostrils.*
=Mesh=
Because I won't lower myself to the level of the Balawai.
*Morgan frowned, uncertain what he meant by this. But then he looked at her, and what she saw in his expression, in his eyes, was pain. Loss. Her eyes widened and she understood: He had watched Balawai kill Korunnai children. She took a step backward, perhaps in precaution, perhaps an instinctive reaction to the idea that he had every right in the galaxy to return the favor, but her act only drew a sad frown from Mesh, and he looked away.*
=Mesh=
I won't hurt you. I'm sure people love you. Losing you would be pain too great to bear.
*Mesh looked straight forward for a couple of seconds, then started to walk again. He added more words, words that were not spoken very loud, but words Morgan heard nevertheless.*
=Mesh=
Pain no one should ever have to bear.
*There were tears in her eyes. She had no clue how long they had been there. They may have been there ever since Mesh gave her that pained look. Quickly she reached up with the heels of her palms to wipe her eyes dry, then wiped her hands on her dress as she made to keep up with Mesh, frowning sadly up at him. Mesh didn't look at her, but he sensed her gaze.*
=Mesh=
You don't gotta worry about me, kid. I'm fine. All said and done. It's liberating, in a way. It makes me a free man! Only gotta look after myself. And, well, you of course.
*His voice had grown in enthusiasm, but even Morgan could feel its falsity, could see it in the attempt at a reassuring smile he gave her. It was an act. A way to cope with whatever loss he felt. Morgan tried to smile back, but she feared her attempt looked less sincere than his own. Perhaps it was, for his smile slowly faded and he looked down, before looking up and around at the jungle again, alert.*
=Mesh=
We're still quite a ways from the Temple, yet. All looks well, but... It seems like there's something else out there. I can't pinpoint it, but it's not like anything I ever felt growing up in these jungles.
*Morgan could sense it too. Perhaps all it was was an attempt to change the topic, but it was a legitimate concern still. In fact, what Morgan could sense was the same exact source of conflict within the world itself she had felt earlier. And Mesh was unfamiliar with it? That was... not very encouraging. Suddenly she felt a lot more tense. She needed to get off this planet, soon.
And Mesh... now she understood his occasional blunt demeanor. Whatever had happened to him apart from losing his tribe... It was terrible. And he lived on his own in the jungle, with nothing to look forward to but fighting the entire day just to survive, being wary of Balawai mercenaries? He deserved more. Could she convince him to leave with her?
But Mesh was still looking about, as though trying to pinpoint the ill omen with his feelings, before saying one thing.*
=Mesh=
I don't like this.
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Post by The Corruption on May 1, 2013 18:16:44 GMT -8
The jungle watched. The jungle knew that the Korunnai was right to feel fear. Not everything that lived in it had been around while he was growing up. The vast majority of it, now, was foreign. It was not of this world, but it had become this world. And though he did know it, it knew him. It knew the secrets of all who had lived within the confines of this world, it knew every creature, it had marked them all in its own way. It tracked each and every one of them as soon as they set foot among the foliage of this world, and it knew them.
The leaves around the pair rustled, as if a sinister wind was blowing through the foliage, mocking their every footstep, their every word. Soon, they would be deep enough inside the jungle that no amount of running could save them. There would be no escape for them. They would soon find the verdant green replaced with a tainted blue, and the very ground they walked upon would be turning against them.
Soon, the true master of Haruun Kal would have fresh victims for its cause...
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Morgan Calmcacil
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Post by Morgan Calmcacil on May 1, 2013 18:28:20 GMT -8
*Mesh had grown mostly silent from then on out. Part of it was likely due to his sudden alertness, having sensed the new danger and keeping an eye out for surprises, both known and unknown. But Morgan also wondered if having to relive the tragic story of his tribe's loss also contributed to his silence. Now she felt guilty for bringing up the subject, but there was little she could do to change that now.
Every now and then there was a disturbance, flocks of strange avians soaring overhead or through the brush, smaller creatures referred to as "ruskakks" by Mesh scurrying along in packs. There was another vine cat attack, but Mesh managed to ward it away without killing it this time, much to Morgan's relief. But these, she could tell, would be the least of their concerns. They were supposed to be heading toward the Jedi Temple. So why did she feel like they were walking towards terrible danger?
Morgan looked up at Mesh, but she knew it was hasty to suspect him. He had saved her life already, and was helping her find her way. And he also seemed to not recognize what was out there either. Some might say she was foolish for trusting him, since he was a total stranger. She'd trusted Psallo, and that nearly led to her death. But she'd trusted Kory... and, well, now she was her mother. And at the moment, she had no choice but to trust Mesh.
There was something else out there too. A singular entity, fierce, untamed. Definitely not a vine cat; vine cats were far less vivid in the Force. No, this one was an active being, seeking, moving, hunting. Mesh clearly felt it too, for his grip tightened defensively on his weapon, holding it at the ready as though expecting an ambush. Morgan's own hand went for her lightsaber, fingers curling around the metal tube.*
=Mesh=
I wouldn't bother with that.
*Morgan looked up at Mesh inquisitively, though did not release her lightsaber.*
=Mesh=
That's an akk out there. Lightsabers ain't no use against their hide.
*Well, Morgan didn't know that. She released her lightsaber reluctantly, now defenseless should this creature appear. She'd have to rely on Mesh's aid. But then something occurred to her.*
But if my lightsaber won't work, will your gun?
*Mesh only shook his head. Oh, that was real reassuring. Morgan wondered if akks could climb trees, and if so, she would take to one immediately. She turned her head to look at Lokay, who hadn't moved from her shoulder at all, staying put and peering out into the jungle. If only he'd been like that back at the base, then she wouldn't be in this mess at all. But she could hardly blame him for all this, so, as though in apology for her thoughts, she kissed him on the snout, giving him a smile, to which he, as usual, nuzzled against her cheek affectionately.*
=Mesh=
Careful, he's getting closer.
*That was one way to end the mood, though Morgan knew she truthfully ought to have been focusing on the present anyway. The creature was getting close. She could sense it. And it could sense them. Its probing was like nothing she had ever felt; fierce, predatory, burning. It almost stung, in a way. Morgan even winced slightly.*
=Mesh=
Watch out!
*Morgan quickly looked up at Mesh with a quick gasp to see he had turned around completely, hoisting his weapon and firing. Morgan spun, just as something burst from the showers, leaping towards them. Morgan dove to the side, Lokay screeching and taking to the air, where he started to circle high above them. Mesh sidestepped away from the leap, but was caught by the creature's tail as it lashed out and knocked him aside, eliciting a pained grunt.
Morgan stood quickly, assessing the situation. Mesh had been sent flying a short distance away, nursing his chest, struggling to sit up. The growling akk turned to face them, and she now had a full view of what they looked like. Large and red, scaly, with sharp teeth and horns on its head. Its large blue eyes were locked upon Morgan, its black tongue licked its jaws, eager to make a meal out of her and Mesh. Not something she wouldn't allow to happen.*
=Mesh=
Morgan... easy... no sudden movements...
*No sudden movements? Morgan was about to look toward him disbelievingly, but stopped; no sudden movements. She'd heard this advice before, even had to put it in practice. But if the akk was so intent on making her a meal, then what difference would that make?
Wait... there was another option. Morgan slowly turned to look at the akk. This one was Force-sensitive. Morgan may not have been able to tap into the connection regular creatures of Haruun Kal had with the planet, but she could definitely try her best to tap into the Force signature of this beast. She looked the creature directly in the eye and held her gaze there. Curiously, the akk ceased growling and stood out of its predatory crouch, looking back at her.
"This is it, Morgan," she thought. "I don't know why it doesn't look like it wants to eat me anymore, but that's not important!" She slowly started to raise her hands, palms outward.*
=Mesh=
Morgan! What are you doing?!
*Morgan ignored his hissed incredulity, for she knew exactly what she was doing. Normally, she'd close her eyes, but something told her she needed to keep them open, focused upon the akk's own. This was going to be slightly more difficult than usual, since she also had to focus on the akk visually, as well as lacking the ability to exploit its connection to the world, if the creatures of Haruun Kal had one.
Nevertheless, she extended her senses, attempting to meet hers with those of the akk dog. She applied all the feelings she had trained herself to apply when attempting to befriend creatures on Felucia. Surprisingly, the akk accepted these feelings, melding them with its own rather simply, as though willingly taking in her touch.
And then it rolled over, like a puppy, tongue lolling out as it panted happily. That had worked? It was watching her expectantly, so she lowered her hands, grinning, only now realizing she had been holding her breath and taking a few short gasping ones before approaching it, tentatively extending her hands before placing one on his head and the other on his jaw, gently stroking him. He responded by extending his big black tongue and licking her arm, which made her giggle.*
=Mesh=
Well, dip me in tusker poop.
*Morgan looked up, watching as Mesh approached cautiously, looking in genuine awe at the sight before him.*
=Mesh=
How in the kriff did you pull that off?
*Morgan beamed proudly as she continued to stroke the akk, glad she was capable of surprising the Korun.*
I'm used to doing stuff like this on Felucia all the time. It's easier for me there, since everything's connected to the planet, and so am I, so I can make lots of animals be my friend there, but it's not easy anywhere else. But since he could use the Force, I was able to use it on him, too.
*Mesh didn't look like he completely understood that, as his expression was blank for a moment, but then he shrugged, looking down at the akk.*
=Mesh=
Well, whatever you did, this akk's bonded to you, now. Gonna give it a name?
*The akk suddenly rolled over onto his stomach, peering up at them curiously. He looked to be about three feet in length, excluding his tail, which looked to be just about as long as his body. And he was bonded to Morgan? She hadn't expected to get a new pet out of this. She knelt down beside him, wrapping her arms around his neck lovingly.*
I'll call him... Rush.
*Why Rush? She wasn't exactly sure. Because he had rushed past them when he first appeared? No, that was a stretch. It was the first thing to come to mind, and it sounded like a good name to her. She smiled, then her eyes were drawn to something in the air. Lokay was still circling about them, peeking down nervously at the akk. Morgan giggled, calling out to him as she extended a calming nudge through the Force to him.*
It's okay, Lokay! You can come down now!
*Lokay circled once more, as though hesitant to come near the akk, before descending upon Morgan's shoulder, the one opposite the akk. Rush watched the tailring curiously, while Lokay peered at the akk warily. Morgan only giggled.*
Silly Lokay, Rush isn't going to eat you!
*Lokay didn't seem convinced. Especially not when Rush tried to extend his head across Morgan's body and lick at the tailring, causing Lokay to extend his wings and try to look intimidating. Mesh chuckled and leaned down, extending his arm to the akk, who similarly licked at it.*
=Mesh=
It's alright. He's just getting mine and Lokay's scents. He's not quite an adult yet, so he's still got a few more feet to grow. I wonder if he lost his pack, but he's got a good family now it looks like. But we better get going again. Rush will help protect us now.
*Oh, right. Morgan let go of Rush and stood, coaxing him to get up and follow them as well. Immediately he was on his feet, and as Mesh led them on, Rush followed at a distance, sometimes disappearing behind the trees. Mesh explained that akks were scouts, and would scan the surrounding areas of the jungle, giving warning pulses through the Force of dangers they couldn't handle on their own.
If Morgan were to take him home, she could see that being of great aid in the jungles of Felucia.
After a short while, a pulse of confusion was suddenly sent from Rush to Morgan and Mesh, and Mesh immediately looked uncomfortable. Rush appeared a few seconds later, padding toward them on splayed claws, looking as confused as his pulse. Morgan looked up at Mesh, who only set his jaw and continued walking.
But, things were different here. Where before there was bright life—even if violent—here there was only a taint. And it was just as violent. And... everything seemed to be blue. And not even a pretty blue. A dark, hideous blue. She frowned. This was not good, and she could feel it. Was this the source of the cruelty and evil she had sensed upon entering the world?*
=Mesh=
Morgan, I've no clue what this is. But it's in our way. Stay close to me. Me and Rush'll protect you.
*Morgan nodded, though didn't look exactly convinced. There was more here... there was an intelligence. And not a benevolent one either. They would need to get through this. And fast. Then Morgan could leave and go home, and all would be well again. Well, no, all would be well when her father and mama got home too. But that couldn't happen until she got home as well.*
We'll be okay, Mesh. I... I've lived through worse.
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Post by The Corruption on May 1, 2013 18:53:15 GMT -8
[[Oh, fleshling. We are not "worse."]]
The voice was from all around, yet nowhere, yet somehow in their heads, all at once.
[[You have strayed from your path. You would not know us; our reign is fresh. But this part of the jungle, we have now made our home.]]
The rustling in the leaves died down, the wind in the foliage softened, the mocking tone left their surroundings. Then the voice spoke to Morgan directly.
[[Put your faith in the native and the beast, child, if it will make you feel better. We don't want you to feel fear. We don't want you to feel pain. But there is so much more for you here than you've ever known before. We mean you no harm.]]
A single leaf fell before her, its surface covered with blue, daintily touching down on the ground directly in front of her.
[[We only seek companionship. We only seek to be friends.]]
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Morgan Calmcacil
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Post by Morgan Calmcacil on May 1, 2013 19:02:53 GMT -8
*The voice made all of them suddenly look about for a source. It was Morgan who recognized it came from no specific location first and stopped; Lokay's head continued to swivel about in search of the source, Rush began to circle around the vicinity in vain attempt to find it, while Mesh raised his weapon, head turning back and forth, scanning for a target.
Immediately Morgan traced the voice to its source: The dissension in the planet, the darkness... and yet, not the darkness she knew. Yet its tactics were similar. Assuring her it was not "worse," but using a collective "we" to refer to itself. Or was it multiple people? It at least confirmed what Mesh had guessed earlier: That it was new, something the man wouldn't have encountered before. It also made it clear that this part of the jungle was their home.
And now it was directing its words to Morgan, claiming it didn't want her to feel fear or pain, promising no harm and "more" for her here than she'd "ever known before." Terrific. Dagobah was only months ago, and already another evil entity was trying to blind her with lies, lure her away from the light?
The leaf that fell to the ground only drew a look from her long enough to see the lines etched in corruption upon it, before she looked back up around at the jungle again, as the voice continued, claiming it only wanted to be "friends."*
Yeah right! I've heard that crap before!
*She started to turn slowly around, eyes locking on various portions of the trees as though addressing a gathered committee, as she continued to speak.*
Maybe not from you, but from something else like you! And I didn't want to be its friend either!
*Mesh had been frowning at her as she suddenly spoke around at the jungle.*
=Mesh=
What are you talkin' about, girl?
*Morgan ignored him, her face locked in a determined and slightly irritated expression.*
All we want is to go to the Temple so I can get out of here. So you better leave us alone.
*Morgan's voice was stern and surprisingly commanding for a girl her age and size, but Mesh didn't exactly look impressed, as he spoke in a low voice to her.*
=Mesh=
I don't think it's gonna like what you're saying...
*Morgan didn't care. She'd had enough of evil entities feeding her lies in attempt to draw her away from what she knew was right. She didn't want the companionship of evil or darkness or corrupting things; it was clear by this very area of the jungle that this entity was a corrupting one. All those did was destroy her greatest companions. So why the hell would she join their side?*
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Post by The Corruption on May 4, 2013 21:28:08 GMT -8
[[Leave you alone?]]
The jungle laughed, and all kindness was drained from its voice in an instant.
[[Why would we leave you alone? You are an escape. You wish to "get out of here"? Well..]]
The trees started shaking, as if a terrible wind was rushing through them, though no such wind was blowing. When the leaves fell, they fell straight down, though the trees around them were bending slightly and trembling in the sudden invisible storm.
[[So..]]
The foliage above them suddenly condensed, the trees -- though still bending in the nonexistent wind -- constricting and bringing their upper branches together all around, blotting out what little sunlight was making it through the jungle, plunging the trio of man, girl, and beast into a pit of darkness.
[[Do..]]
The darkness was suddenly illuminated, as the trees around them began glowing with that same sickening blue, that color of evil that had pervaded so much of the life this deep into the forest. Small points of light floated about the air, drifting slowly together, coalescing in a single spot not five meters away from the trio, spinning 'round each other, lighting up the ever-thickening darkness with the brilliance of a million tiny stars forming a humanoid figure..
[[We!]]
Then in a flash, the spot solidified. The figure was no longer a collection of point-sources. It was now a clearly defined being, standing at two meters tall and clad in blue armor. A roughly T-shaped visor was the only thing it had for a face, and the lower part of its right arm had been replaced by a cannon. Its left hand wasn't so much a proper hand as it was a talon or claw, clearly designed with destruction in mind. Its shoulders were massive, and its chestplate was sharply angled, causing a distinct juxtaposition against the sleek curves of its hips and legs, ending in clawed feet with individual, armored toes.
The being surveyed the trio before it for a second before tilting its head slightly and focusing on the child.
[[Hello, Morgan.]]
Though it lacked a face, it was somehow apparent that it was smiling, though there was absolutely no kindness behind the "expression." It was sickening, it was twisted, and it was wrong.
[[Going somewhere?]]
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Morgan Calmcacil
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Post by Morgan Calmcacil on May 4, 2013 22:39:41 GMT -8
*Whatever the voice belonged to, it sounded less than happy. Mesh swore under his breath, Lokay continued to look about confusedly for the source of the voice, and Rush was in a predatory crouch, growling at the jungle. Morgan, however, stood still. Even as the voice grew in anger and intensity. Even as the trees began to shake and the leaves fell and the branches constricted upwards to block out whatever sunlight still seeped into the jungle.
She'd seen more impressive tricks back home on Felucia.
Of course, Morgan was a little unsettled by the entity, if only because it was unknown. But for all she knew, it was a master of illusion, a manipulator of the earth. But the seeping blue energy was not natural. But again, was it merely an illusion? Some master of darkness who knew how to make one see what they wanted to see? Morgan had no way to tell. And she'd rather just leave before they had to deal with whoever it was.
But then the glowing blue energy that permeated the forest suddenly merged together into a single form, as it completed its thought: That it also wanted to leave, claiming Morgan was an "escape." Morgan squinted against the flash of light as the form solidified itself into an armored figure. The helmet was Mandalorian-esque, but the similarities ended there. It was a cold figure, expressionless, foreboding.
But it was no Psallo.
Truthfully, Morgan was using her own experiences to belittle whatever this figure was in her thoughts, help her feel stronger. But she also had a determination to not let anything intimidate her anymore. But she stood her ground, as Rush beside her directed his growling toward the new figure, threatening to pounce upon it. Lokay cowered, huddling into Morgan. Mesh's teeth were bared as his weapon was trained upon the figure.*
=Mesh=
Shit, girl, I told you you were just making it angry!
*Morgan ignored him. She only stared at the creature. It knew her name? It had probably been watching them and overheard it. Not a surprise. Then it asked if she was going somewhere. Once more, Morgan stood her ground, staring the thing in the visor.*
Yes. And you're not invited!
*It was that moment that Mesh hoisted his gun, training the barrel upon the figure.*
=Mesh=
Kriff this shit, man.
*A shot rang out, echoing through the jungle. Mesh's intention? Draw the thing off, wound it, or hopefully, kill it. At best, give them a window of time to get the hell out of there. Morgan could try to act tough all she wanted, and sure she had that bow and lightsaber, but she was in over her head. And Mesh wasn't exactly interested in sticking around to find out what this thing could do. But he supposed he was about to find out either way...*
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Post by The Corruption on May 5, 2013 17:04:47 GMT -8
The shot rang out and struck its target, hitting the Guardian in its chestplate. Its only response was to look down at the small, scorching hole that was left in its armor, watching as it sealed itself up. In just a few seconds, the only evidence that Mesh had shot at all was the wisp of smoke from the spot where the blackened hole once was.
[[Did you really think that would work?]]
It laughed. It started off low and slow, then steadily grew in intensity. It was laughing, not from anything humorous, but at the pathetic attempt that Mesh had just made on its life.
[[Oh, you pathetic Korunnai, you.]] The way it said the word "Korunnai" made it clear that it considered Mesh to be beneath it: his origins were used as an insult. [[If we're going to shoot at each other, then I believe it's my turn.]]
On that note, it raised its right arm and pointed it directly at its primary target: Morgan.
[[Three. Two..]]
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Morgan Calmcacil
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Post by Morgan Calmcacil on May 5, 2013 18:33:29 GMT -8
*Morgan finally had jumped, had tensed up when the shot was fired. Of everything that was happening around her, of the forest moving and pulsating with evil energy, of a figure appearing out of nothingness, threatening to use her as its escape, a simple gunshot was what shook her. She looked towards Mesh, smoke billowing from the barrel of his gun, then turned her head towards the figure.
Both of them stared in shock when it hardly seemed to notice the shot.
Morgan could have sworn she heard Mesh mutter "we're kriffed." Sometimes she wondered if, despite his earlier friendliness, he even knew how to act around children, since that wasn't exactly what the average child would want to hear from the only adult around. Luckily, Morgan was not as easily worried as other children. Still, she knew the situation they were in just got worse. They would probably have to run at best. And run fast. But they would need a distraction...
The figure then mocked Mesh, both with words and derisive laughter that made Lokay cower further. When it referred to Mesh as "Korunnai," it was in a way that clearly meant to belittle him. A quick glance at the man from Morgan revealed that he indeed looked both insulted and angry. But the mood changed immediately when the figure decided to "trade shots," but instead aimed at Morgan.
For the briefest, most insignificant moment, Morgan froze. But her mind raced for various possibilities to defend herself. Grab her lightsaber to protect herself, though she knew not if that would help. Dive out of the way, perhaps, but then that would leave her friends vulnerable. She was known for pulling off incredible uses of the Force when under extreme circumstances, why couldn't she now?!
All that was moot, however, when suddenly Mesh threw himself before her...*
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Post by The Corruption on May 6, 2013 13:50:29 GMT -8
[[..One.]]
The shot rang out just as Mesh threw himself in front of the girl. The shot was not laserfire, however; it was a bolt of a writhing blue substance that impacted his chest and stayed there. The entity seemed to narrow its eyes in a manner similar to disgust and disappointment, then simply shrugged.
[[Your choice. Welcome to our infinitude, Korunnai. Welcome to our suffering.]]
It laughed mockingly, then leveled its cannon at the akk dog.
[[You're next, beast.]]
It fired..
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Morgan Calmcacil
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Post by Morgan Calmcacil on May 6, 2013 15:23:37 GMT -8
*The blast hit Mesh square in the chest as he continued sailing past Morgan and thudded upon the ground. Morgan's eyes widened in shock as he took the blast, and she was stunned motionless seeing the man put himself in harm's way for her. A total stranger, for that matter. But... it was no ordinary blast. It was one that launched some sort of matter that latched onto Mesh's chest, and even Mesh stared down at it in surprise.
The figure spoke again, "welcoming" Mesh to its "suffering." But then it leveled its arm cannon again... directly at Rush. A quick gasp, then her brows creased in anger. Before the being even spoke, Morgan had turned toward Rush, sending out a warning through their bond in the Force even as she called out to him.*
Rush, move!
*Rush didn't hesitate to bound out of the way even as the cannon fired, dodging the blast before he snarled at the figure again.*
=Mesh=
Morgan...
*Morgan's head whipped around toward Mesh as he spoke, voice sounding harsh after the impact in his chest. His expression was slightly pained, but it also looked fierce, determined, and angry. And yet, his eyes revealed concern for Morgan as he spoke his next words.*
=Mesh=
Get out of here.
*The suggestion made sense. Get out of here while she could. But she couldn't leave Mesh! Seeing her hesitation, his eyes turned commanding, as though telling her not to argue and get out of here, as he struggled to his feet, bringing his weapon around again and starting to turn his focus to the creature.
No, no no no. She wasn't going to let someone just give up their life for her! But if she didn't run, she'd die too! She gulped, then turned and ran toward Rush, even as Mesh began to open fire at the figure, shouting obscenities and insults at it in attempt to keep its focus on him. Morgan wanted to look back but she couldn't. She merely hopped up onto Rush's back, grabbing Lokay and pulling him into her lap as she took a brief dip into the Force, determining the direction to go...*
Run Rush! That way!
*She pointed away from the area and the figure, giving Rush a direction through the Force as well. The akk didn't hesitate and bounded off, Morgan managing to keep her balance as she leaned forward and held onto his scales with one hand, the other protecting Lokay. She didn't look back as the wind stung her tear-stroked eyes. She had to get out of here, had to find a way home before it was too late.
Lest Mesh's sacrifice be for nothing.*
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Post by The Corruption on May 7, 2013 12:01:46 GMT -8
[[You aren't getting away that easily, you little brat!]]
It was then that she realized that Mesh was back on his feet, shooting at her. Any other day, she would have stood by and mocked him before beating him down again. But right now, she didn't have the time.
[[You. Stay down when you're beaten.]]
She took a few quick steps towards him, drawing her fist back as she got closer, then gave him a quick but hard punch to the gut, followed by a knee to the groin, and finished up with an elbow bash to the back of the skull when he doubled over. Without another word, she turned back towards the jungle in the direction the akk dog had went with the child. She crouched down..
And then she bolted, running through the trees much faster than an entity of her build should have been able to move. Her blaster came up, pointing directly in front of her, the tip of the spear that she seemed to be driving through the jungle's thick foliage, bolt after bolt after bolt flying from the arm-mounted cannon.
[[GET BACK HERE!!!]]
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Morgan Calmcacil
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Affiliation: The Jedi Order
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Post by Morgan Calmcacil on May 7, 2013 14:31:37 GMT -8
*"C'mon, you bitch," Mesh thought as he fired shot after shot at the creature, "I'm the one you want." Morgan had to get away. If anyone was getting offed, it was him. He'd done his part. He'd redeemed himself for not being there when his kids were murdered by Balawai. He wasn't about to let another child die when he could help it.
But the creature was not fazed at all, attacking Mesh in the gut, groin, and back of the head. He collapsed to the ground, in great pain, but not disabled. The thing was running after Morgan now. He raised his rifle, firing off one more futile shot, before his arm fell to the ground, rifle falling out of his hand.
Whatever the thing was that had attacked his chest, it was infecting him. He could feel it. The creature had "welcomed" him to its suffering. Was he being slowly converted into one of those things? No. Mesh would not be a part of that. Slowly, with pained motions, he reached for the knife at his belt, even as his body attempted to fight the action. Was it taking control already? Then it was time to end it. Unsheathing the knife, he lifted it to his throat, placing the sharp end directly against his carotid artery.
Then, with the last of his willpower, he slit his own throat.*
*Rush was fast. In a less dire situation, she would have commented that his name was quite fitting. But right now, she only cared about escaping this thing and getting home while she could. The thing was chasing her, she heard it call after her. But she didn't care; Rush was faster, trees blazed past like blurs as they darted through the jungle.
Noises. Noises everywhere. Rushing wind, faint noises from the creatures of the jungle, the faint sound of the creature's arm cannon in the background. She was trying to ignore these, so at first she didn't realize the datapad around her waist was chiming for her attention. Gasping, she carefully released Lokay and pulled the datapad off her belt, holding it up to replay the message.*
=Jake=
:: Morgan! Are you there? Can you hear me? ::
*Her eyes widened as she heard her brother's voice, and Bix's talking to him in the background. Their timing could not have been better!*
Jake! Where are you?!
*"Please be close," she thought to herself as she awaited Jake's response, "please be close, please be close, please be close..."*
=Jake=
:: We're in orbit, we're coming to get you! Where are you? ::
*Oh, thank the Force! Morgan now just had to roughly estimate her location, but she had a fairly good idea of where she was.*
I'm in the jungle! Near the Jedi Temple! Don't go to the spaceport, just come down and get me!
*Another blast of the arm cannon was heard in the background, causing Morgan to gasp and glance backward. Was it just her, or did that one sound closer? Oh boy, she had to hope Jake and Bix got here fast. And they'd have to get out even faster, which gave her something else to tell Jake.*
And open the ramp before you land!
*The response came after only the briefest of delays.*
=Jake=
:: Okay! We'll be there soon! ::
*Morgan kept her link open just in case either of them needed to say anything else, but she partially wrapped that arm around Lokay once more, who hadn't budged. They were almost out of the jungle, just a couple more minutes. The treeline began to fade, light was pouring into the jungle; the corrupted landscape was far behind now. When Rush entered the open air, the Temple was nearby. And so was the shuttle overhead. Spotting it, Morgan's eyes widened and she brought the datapad to her mouth again.*
I see you! I see you! I'm down here on the akk!
*She heard Jake confirm and say they'd be right down. The ship was swerving downwards, ramp already opening as it descended.*
C'mon, Rush! That way!
*She nudged Rush toward the ship. She didn't look back. Didn't see how far away the thing was that was chasing her. As soon as Rush was within range of the ship, he leapt forward, into the ramp. Standing there already was Jake; without hesitating, Morgan threw herself from Rush's back and at him, clinging to him.*
Bix! Go!
*This was the last thing she said before she buried her face in her brother's shoulder, sobbing as her tears flowed freely.*
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Post by Jake Palmer Calmcacil on May 7, 2013 14:50:57 GMT -8
*There was the Jedi Temple. Morgan said she was nearby that. But where? In the jungle still? Jake frowned as he looked out the viewport as though trying to look for her, but then he received the comm that Morgan could see them, and was on the "akk." Jake's eyes looked around, and he spotted some large creature darting out of the jungle. Was that her? It was!*
Okay! We're coming down!
*Jake then jumped out of his seat and ran to the back of the ship, even as the ramp was lowering. Jake held onto a railing for his own safety, watching as the ship descended to the ground. Then his eyes widened as he saw what Morgan was riding on. It was... well, not huge, since he'd seen bigger creatures on Felucia. But it was impressive. And it was jumping right towards him. Well, not right towards him, but in the same area. That counted, right?
But as it landed and its claws scraped on the floor, Morgan suddenly leapt toward Jake. Jake caught her, falling backward onto the floor, but he held her, immediately sensing her need for human comfort. She called out for Bix to go, and the ship's ramp began to close, sealing them safely inside as Morgan clung to Jake, crying into his shoulder. Jake didn't say anything, he only held her closely, absentmindedly stroking her hair with one hand. A few tears slid down his own cheeks as well, out of sheer joy that she was safe and back with them, and whatever she'd been through, it was over now.
He looked around the room again. Lokay had fluttered away after Morgan leapt off the creature's back and was now gliding down to land beside the two children, laying down next to them, huddling against them; despite whatever traumatic experience they'd just been through, he still hated flight. The big creature was sitting down on his haunches, panting, watching the two. He wanted to ask who or what this was, and he guessed now they were taking it home, but he knew it could wait. Morgan was more important right now. And he was just glad she was safe...*
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Arden Brandwyn
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Back again, let's try and go out with a bang this time
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Post by Arden Brandwyn on May 22, 2014 11:30:00 GMT -8
As Arden entered the shuttle he remembered the last time he was here. He had come to pick up BoB before heading off world, now he was returning without his faithful droid companion. Arden left the shuttle in the temple bay and headed down the corridors of the temple, one of his escort troops had been on station and accompanied him on his visit. Arden's first stop was to check on the students, but the dormitories were empty. The instructor's quarters were equally vacant. Upon entering his own chambers he saw the reason why the temple was so devoid of living and over run by droids. There was a stack of pads and chips from all the instructors on his desk, telling him how their pupils had graduated from the training at this temple and sent off to other temples and enclaves to be taken as padawans by other other masters. He also has notes from those instructors informing him that the force was calling them away to other things. Arden smiled as he realized the Force was still guiding his friends in his absence. The next place he visited was the control room for planetary defenses. A skeleton crew manned it and showed him the daily reports since he had been there last and after a long chat with the officer in charge he made his way to the council chambers. This was the room he dreaded visiting the most. He knew it would be empty and his friends would not be there, but he entered anyway. As the lights came on with his entrance he took his seat. As he sat down the holo-emiters came on and showed him the recent updates that the council needs to be informed of. Normally he would delete the messages after reviewing them, but seeing as he is the only master here he would leave them on the board until another master had seen them. He did however add his initials to the messages so the other masters would see he had been here.
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Urias Fenris
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Re-Connecting with old friends
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Post by Urias Fenris on May 24, 2014 20:46:04 GMT -8
Master Urias Fenris had been meditating in his quarters when he sensed someone familiar pass through the temple. He greatly missed his wife who was on business in Alderaan last he knew. Their children were resting soundly in their beds from the days training. He was meditating on something he read in the archives regarding how Master Revan and Anakin Skywalker achieved unity in the Force, he had also been meditating on Form 0 lightsaber combat, and he had found some rumors in the archives about a rare Form 8 that he wanted to investigate further.. Curious as to who it was, he stretched out and sensed Arden's signature. It seemed the Force was guiding him to locate his old friend. Fenris sensed that Arden might have been in a hurry, so he donned his white robe and silver bladed lightsaber. He stood and stretched, then proceeded out of his quarters and into the temple. It was empty, and he knew it was empty for some time now. He remembered the old days when the halls were crowded with apprentices and padawans. He remembered the times he had with them, before he removed himself from the events of the galaxy in his deep meditation. One of his personal HK-50 droids stood guard at the entrance to his quarters, while he strolled. His destination became clearer as he neared it. He knew he had a padawan out in the galaxy somewhere and no way of contacting her, and he knew he also had a fallen padawan out there who was consumed by the dark side. The memory of his brother's redemption became clearer and he remembered that Galnar was with Tirria and her padawan. He stopped momentarily at the training room and remembered his most recent student. He remembered her vaguely, but her Force trace was not hard to pick out of the other traces here. He left and eventually found his way to the Council Chambers. He did not know what he'd find through the doors. HE hesitated, but then opened them and had fond memories. To his surprise, He saw his old friend. Urias strided to his own chair, or at least the one that he used to occupy, and stopped. He touched the fabric. It had been a long time, but no time like the present. He then looked directly at Arden. His basso echoed through the empty chamber.
Arden, old friend. It has been some time hasn't it?
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