(Ooc: this storyline starts in -this- thread)

Trandosha:K'Satikur Clan Temple

Rissonik frowned at the propaganda that was already going around about Naosha. Such a thing was expected in the game of politics, but it still disgusted him…especially since Naosha was his mate. However, being of a somewhat political mind himself, he knew the Councils tactics could backfire on them. How big of a backfire though depended on just how many fellow Trandoshans felt they needed to change with the times. The Council may speak to outsiders as representatives of the planet…but they don’t always represent the populous as a whole. They may have the majorities support…but there is always the minority.

Finding out just who is part of that minority is the problem. The violence that dominates Trandoshan society made it difficult, if not fatal, to go searching for those of an unpopular viewpoint. Rissonik wasn’t even sure of the political standpoint of most of members of the Clan...and being a warrior Clan it would be difficult to justify moving away from the pure hunters culture they had lived for so many generations.

A growl and the sounds of a scuffle broke him out of his musings. He didn’t need to know who was fighting and with a sigh he looked over at the two males of Trazu’s clutch in a tussle again. He watched Trissan and Silonik wrestle with each other, their bodies a blur of green and yellow ochre scales. It was always Trissan that started the fight; Silonik being the better behaved of the two males, yet it was always Silonik that ended it…even when Trissan caught him completely by surprise. This no doubt infuriated the young hotheaded Trandoshan and only made Trissan more desperate to win: Rissonik hoped the two will learn to get along as they got older.

Normally the first male to hatch would have killed and eaten any brothers in the clutch, but Trazu had decided to do every thing he could to prevent the infanticide, so he had taken Trissan out of the incubator as soon as he was fully hatched. Ever since then, Trissan had tried to do what he would have done if his father had let him, but Silonik proved to be made more then a match for him time and time again.

The squabble started to increase in furiousity and Rissonik wondered if he should intervene. But just as the older Trandoshan started to stand up to do so he saw Trissan sudden fly off and land smartly on his back a couple feet away. Rissonik knew what just happened and could only chuckle.

My little Force Sensitive Grandson. Rissonik thought, watching as Silonik pulled himself up into a crouching position and glared at his brother, his lilac eyes just daring Trissan to try jumping him again. Trissan righted himself and glared back at his brother, his eyes narrowed and the pupils of his pale gold eyes razor thin slits.

“Cheater.” Trissan hissed.

“I cheat not.” Silonik countered, his tone calm.

“Did to!” Trissan growled. “I can’t do that, so you shouldn’t either!”

“Can’t do what?” Silonik cocked his head, looking a bit puzzled.

“That…” Trissan flailed his arms around a moment as his young mind searched for a way to explain it. “Pushing things without touching them bit.”

Silonik continued to look puzzled, Rissonik understanding that his current use of the Force was purely instinctual. He knew that eventually he’ll need to find someone willing to actually train him to use it consciously.

“Now Trissan…” Rissonik said calmly. “All of us have special or unique abilities, some just discover them a lot sooner then others. Some individuals special talents are more subtle and not really recognized by the one that has it.” He knew he had to be careful not to make it seem he favored Silonik over Trissan: that would only further fuel Trissan’s hatred of his brother.

“Peh…” Trissan snorted and he wandered off to lick his wounds and sulk. When Trissan was out of sight Silonik wandered off in a different direction, likely to see what his sisters were up to: thankfully for him, females tended not to be as aggressive as males.

With the distraction gone, Rissonik returned to thinking about the political situation currently going about. He didn’t get to think long, as one of the other Clan members entered his private quarters.

Rissonik glanced up at the tall and somewhat lanky male just inside the doorway, who promptly brought up his hands and crossed them at the wrist in front of his chest, fingers spread and slightly curled. It was the standard greeting Clan members used and since Rissonik was head of the Clan, the male added a faint head bow to the gesture, to further euphemize his respect for him.

“Yes Silliss, what is it?” Rissonik asked, nodding in acknowledgement of the gesture. Silliss was one of the elite members, a K’Satikur warrior, thus Rissonik didn’t mind so much that he came to his private quarters: he had earned the right to speak to him in private if he wished.

“I am assuming you’ve already heard some of the things on the news about Councilor Naosha, Sha'tor.” Silliss said.

“Indeed I have.” Rissonik replied, careful to keep his tone neutral. “What about it?”

The younger Trandoshan hesitated a moment. “I am curious as to what you think of it Sha'tor…”

Rissonik could see the fear in his eyes, though the younger member was trying hard to hide it. There could only be one reason for him to be afraid: he felt that his own opinion would cost him his life. K’Satikur warriors were known for their fierce loyalty to their Clan. Many often have the Clan symbol tattooed or branded on their bodies and the pain of such a process only further proved that loyalty. To disagree with the Sha’tor on any matter could cost the warrior his or her life.

“What do I think about it?” Rissonik said slowly, rising to his feet. “It disgusts me that’s what…and not just because she’s my mate.”

“Sir?”

“We have languished in our own pride and sense of honor for far too long Silliss, and it needs to change if we are to continue to make any headway in this galaxy.”

“And that means…”

“Improving our relationship with the Wookiees for the better. Our own stubbornness to hold on to the old grudges and traditions is slowly suffocating us. If we don’t change that…we will eventually self destruct and no one will shed a tear for us.”

Silliss was silent, evidently thinking over what he had said.

“Sha'tor Rissonik…it may please you to know that you are not alone in your concerns and desires.” Silliss finally said, a faint smile appearing on this muzzle. He was relieved and Rissonik smiled in return.

“How many others do you know of?” He asked.

“I suspect a few…but nothing definite. I can try to find out.”

“Be careful. The Council obviously doesn’t want this view point to become a common one…the propaganda they are spewing about Naosha is proof of that.”

Silliss bowed his head. “I will Sha'tor.” Silliss then disappeared back out the doorway.

Rissonik sat back down in his chair, comforted now that there were others that supported his mate.

If we cannot convince the majority…perhaps we can take those that are for change someplace else and start anew. He thought. Things had to proceed carefully though, one wrong move and the whole Council and their supporters will come down hard upon them.

There was a loud crash in another room and Rissonik sighed: Trissan was at it again….

Rissonik had taken the five Trandoshan toddlers outside, mostly to prevent more damage to his valuable furniture then anything. He didn’t mind watching his grandkids, he just wished they, Trissan in particular, weren’t so destructive: he honestly didn’t know how Varcanna did it.

Presently he had them exploring an area of temple ground that had lots of rocks of various sizes and shapes: he was sitting on one of the largest ones so he could keep an eye on them. The three females were playing a game of ‘stalk and tag’. Silonik was playing with them, but he had broken away from the game and was now sitting on one of the rocks, watching the lower ranking Ekirta and Keshur spar and practice in the field nearby. Calm and calculating that one was and Rissonik had little doubt this one could make a good Jedi if he is accepted into the Academy when old enough. Trissan however…

He was also watching the Trandoshans on the practice field, but he was also trying to imitate them. He did well with the simpler movements, but when he tried one of the more advanced ones he often ended up falling flat on his face.

He’ll make a good warrior one day. Rissonik mused, chuckling faintly as the youth got back up to this feet and tried again. I should have one of the warriors start his training soon in fact…

Looking at the members of his Clan he remembered something. Since the propaganda on Naosha started airing Clan members haven’t been as talkative, at least not in his presence. Normally members, especially the lower ranking Ekirta and Keshur, gossiped a lot about current events. Their silence now unnerved him and he could feel the tension in the air. The exact reason for that tension was unknown to him and it will take a few days before Silliss would come back to him directly with any news of other possible supporters.

A commotion brought his attention back to his grandkids, praying it wasn’t Trissan attacking Silonik again. Trissan was involved…but not in a way he would like: his three sisters apparently decided to gang up on him and Trissan was now at the bottom of pile of bodies. The girls giggled and Trissan was hissing at them as he futilely tried to get up, but he was far from strong enough. His humiliation was complete when Silonik decided to join his sisters in pinning Trissan down.

The growing roar of engines distracted Rissonik from the comical little scene and he looked up to see Hunters Way coming in to land. He was relieved to see his niece’s ship, but grew worried when he saw that the ship was damaged. He called for one of the older Ekirta to watch his young charges while he ran off toward the Clan spaceport.

***

She was glad to be on solid ground again, though Naosha wasn’t sure she actually felt any safer. She knew she was safer here then she would be if they landed in the public starport, but there was still a risk of getting stabbed in the back even here.

A faint smile formed on her face when she saw Rissonik come out to meet them. The pair greeted each other with a brief nuzzle.

“What happened?” Rissonik asked, watching as Varcanna started fusing over her damaged ship, barking at some of the nearby Ekirta to bring her some tools.

“The Diversity Alliance met a tragic end.” Naosha said bluntly. “They attempted the old double cross and got blown away by our fleet for it.”

“So your hunch was correct.”

Naosha glared at him, realizing he had to have overheard her and Varcanna’s conversation before they had left. Rissonik, realizing his slip, looked a bit sheepish.

“Yes it was.” She replied, shaking her head, disappointed but not blaming him for eavesdropping. “There is something I need to talk to you about…in private.”

~

A bit later on in Rissonik’s quarters Naosha told him about her plans for a Separatist Movement. To her shock Rissonik started laughing and she feared she had misjudged him.

“My dear Naosha.” Rissonik managed after he had calmed down. “We truly are meant for each other. While you were out in space I was sitting here thinking of starting up something similar.” It was Naosha’s turn to laugh, recognizing the humor in this coincidence. “Even better…” Rissonik continued. “I have already started the process of finding out how much support we would have from within the Clan. Silliss, one of our K’Satikur warriors, is discreetly finding out that information.”

Naosha smiled broadly, but that smile quickly turned into a frown. “How much support do you think we’ll have from the Clan.”

Rissonik shrugged, frowning himself now. “No idea…”

“Well…with my presence here…we are likely going to find out soon enough” Naosha said grimly.

Rissonik pulled her close to him. “I won’t let anything happen to you here Naosha.” He said softly. “I’m still Sha’tor of this Clan and if any member were to disagree with me siding with you their best option would be to leave the Clan entirely…or face possible death.”

“But any member leaving the Clan that knows of me staying here may let our rivals know of your stance. We are on very dangerous ground Riss…”

“Then we will need to keep you hidden from others for now.”

Naosha made a face at that. “How? There are so many people on the temple grounds. And if you think you can keep me locked up here in your quarters…”

“It will only be for a few days Naosha.” Rissonik interrupted. “Until Silliss comes back with some estimate of how many on the grounds would be with us.”

She nodded, but still didn’t like the idea. “What about those that saw me coming here?”

“No doubt the word will spread, but I let it be known as only a silly rumor.”

“But lying about it could make others lose trust in you.” Naosha countered. “And as Clan Sha’tor, you can’t afford that.”

“Those that would be on our side will understand the need for such caution my love. Especially once our movement starts gaining momentum.”

“If it ever gets off the ground…” Naosha said darkly, feeling the weight of the danger they were in on her shoulders.

“We are on the verge of starting a new era, but only if there are those willing to take the risk to start it.”

“I am willing to start it, but we can’t do it alone.”

“And we are not alone Naosha, we have Varcanna and at least on other Clan member with us.”

Naosha frowned, not at the lack of known support, but at the fact that Rissonik didn’t mention one member of the family. But with Trazu being so far away right now, she didn’t know what his political stance would be for sure, so she let it slide…for now.

Thinking about Trazu reminded her of another threat. “The kids…our opponents will no doubt try to strike us where it would hurt us the most. We should see about ensuring they will be safe during all this.”

Rissonik made a deep rumbling sound from deep in his throat and chest, which meant he hadn’t yet considered that possibility. For a few moments he was deep in thought, his red eyes not really looking at anything.

“I was thinking of having Silonik go to Naboo, to train with the Jedi there when he is old enough.” He said finally. “I would request Varca take him there now…but I still feel he is too young, despite what he can already do with the Force. But as for the four…”

Naosha mulled over this herself a few moments. She knew a bit about the Force, thanks to witnessing some of Silonik’s ‘tricks’, but knew very little about Jedi themselves…only that they tended to be followers of law and order.

“Have Varca take him there…” She said finally. “He’ll be safer there then here. We’ll…” she sighed. “We’ll have to think of something for the other four. I just hope Trazu will understand…”

As do I… Rissonik thought, remembering what Varca ‘felt’ with Trazu as of late, but didn’t voice it: he felt it was best Naosha didn’t know right now. “I’m sure he will…” He said comfortingly, his face a mask of what he was thinking in regards to their son.

The next few days were nerve wracking for Naosha. She wasn’t used to wearing commoners clothing for one thing, having been so spoiled with the high life. But even wearing commoners clothes didn’t mean she could walk about freely: her blue eyes would give her away in a second. So she spent her time being cooped up on Rissonik’s quarters for her own safety.

Most of her time was spent keeping an eye on the kids and discussing the Separatist Movement with her mate and daughter. Rissonik was thinking about holding a meeting with most of the higher-ranking Clan members, to finally proclaim his stance to the Clan, but Naosha told him to hold off until they got word from Silliss. If there were too few other supporters within the Clan such a meeting could lead to his death and likely hers as well, not to mention the threat to the kids lives as well. The kids were oblivious to the tension going around and continued their antics as usual. However, there was one exception: Silonik.

Silonik seemed to be at ease, being rather fidgety and jumpy. He also tagged along very close to Varcanna, who was also uneasy. In Varcanna’s case it was not only the possible danger right on the Clan grounds but the fact that she now felt completely cut off from her brother Trazu: she knew it had to be the K’Satizitus’ doing. She did not relay this to anyone though, even Rissonik, feeling the information would put unneeded additional weight on her Uncle and mother’s shoulders.

Presently they were all sitting in the living room, Silonik curled up asleep on Varcanna’s lap. The youth had been unable to sleep anywhere else as of late. Varcanna gently shifted him so that he wouldn’t cut off the circulation in her legs completely, sighing faintly.

You look so much like your father… She thought, lightly stroking the youth’s arm. I pray you never have to bear your father’s burden. She had agreed to take him to Naboo, though she had her own concerns about it. She shared her Uncle’s concern about his age, but she was also concerned about the fact that Silonik would likely be the first Trandoshan to ever go through Jedi training. With their races reputation and tendency to ‘lean’ toward unlawful activities it was possible they may reject him without a second thought, wasting the trip and their efforts to find him a safe haven in this time of turmoil.

She looked over at her mother and Uncle, who were sitting on the couch across from her seat. Rissonik had an arm around Naosha, who looked to be falling asleep, her head resting on Rissonik’s shoulder. Rissonik was awake, but looked to be deep in thought as he often did these days, likely trying to think of what to do to ensure the survival of the rest of Trazu’s spawn. It was bad enough they were separating Silonik from his clutch mates and they wanted to avoid separating the clutch any more if they could help it.

A chine drew everyones attention, Silonik having nearly jumped right off Varcanna’s lap. Rissonik got up from the couch, walked over to the door and pressed the intercom button.

“Who is it that comes disturbs me at this hour?” Rissonik said, ensuring he sounded more annoyed then nervous.

”My apologies for disturbing you Sha’tor” A voice replied. ”This is Silliss and I have news.”

Rissonik looked over at the others, a look of uncertainty on his face. It was quite possible this was a trick and Varcanna had already scooted Silonik off her lap and rose to her feet, her staff extended and ready for a fight if one came. Naosha had moved behind the couch and drew her blaster. Both females nodded at him to go ahead and open the door.

He nodded in turn and typed in the code to unlock and open the door. The split second it took for the door to open seemed like forever to him, the unknown about to become known, and he breathed a silent sigh of relief when he saw that it was indeed Silliss. Silliss gave the proper greeting and Rissonik let him in, Varcanna and Naosha relaxing their stance but not their guard: there was always the risk of the double cross.

“What is the news.” Rissonik asked after he closed and locked the door again.

“From merely listening to those around me I know there is a lot of support from the Ekirta and Keshur ranks.” Silliss began. “There was decent support from the Warrior ranks as well. However…” Silliss frowned. “There was only a handful of other K’Satikur warriors that showed their support.” Rissonik frowned but nodded, having expected that to be the case: the younger generation tended to be more accepting of change then the old. “There is a chance, albeit small, that more K’Satikur warriors are on our side, but fear revealing it to anyone.”

“Likely because I haven’t proclaimed my stance one way or the other yet, though I am sure some have their assumptions.” Rissonik said.

“I think it’s time for you to let your stance be known Sha’tor.” Silliss said.

“If so few K’Satikur warriors are with us…” Naosha put in. “It may be too dangerous for Rissonik to announce his stance.”

“But if I don’t, those that are with us will never know they have the Sha’tor behind them.” Rissonik countered. “Knowing your leader is behind you boosts your confidence.”

“Once your position is known here though, a coup may be attempted by those not with us.” Naosha cautioned. “The result would be a bloodbath…”

Rissonik mulled over this a moment and realizing she was right. Proclaiming his stance directly could prove deadly for all involved. No, he had to be more subtle and the felt he knew how to do it.

“Silliis, I take it you know which K’Satikur Warriors are on our side correct?” He asked.

“Yes Sha’tor.” Silliss said with a nod.

“Good. I will hold an assembly tomorrow afternoon in the Great Hall. When the time comes I trust you and the others will show your support.”

“Yes Sha’tor. What is it you have in mind?”

“You will know when the time comes Silliss.” Rissonik said, smiling faintly. “You are dismissed.”

Silliss looked a bit puzzled, but nodded in acknowledgement. Rissonik opened the door for him and once Silliss had left he closed and locked the door once again.

“I don’t suppose you are going to let us in on whatever it is you have planned.” Naosha said, her head tilted to one side with a curious expression on her face, arms folded with her blaster dangling off one finger. Varcanna had a similar look on her face, if not a bit suspicious, her staff retracted.

“Let’s just say it will be the ultimate test of the Clan’s loyalty to me.” Rissonik said. “Tomorrow will bear witness to the moment of truth.”

“Something that will give our movement the boost it needs to get started…or drive it into the ground.” Varcanna said with a slow nod. “How can we be sure we can trust Silliss? He could be playing us for fools the whole time.”

“Which is why…you and Silonik must be on your way to Naboo before the assembly.” Rissonik said. “If things go bad tomorrow, I would want to have at least one member of our family safe and out of harms way.”

“For the sake of the bloodline…if not for the movement.” Varcanna said with a slow nod. “I’ll start preparing my ship for the ship first thing in the morning.”

“Good. Let’s all get some sleep…tomorrow is going to be a big day…for all of us.”

Varcanna scooped up Silonik, who had calmly listened to the whole exchange. He was still too young to understand truly what was going on, other then he was going on trip with his Aunt Varcanna. It sounded fun, especially since his brother Trissan didn’t seem to be invited: he wouldn’t have to worry about him trying to beat him down and calling him a cheater when he failed anymore. There were other things nagging at him about this trip, but he was too tired to try to force his young mind to figure them out. In fact, he was fast asleep before Varcanna had even finished tucking him in….

Varcanna scoured over Hunters Way, making sure everything was in order…and nothing had been sabotaged, for the upcoming trip. The trip to Naboo will be taking her and Silonik almost all the way to the outerrim and almost completely on the opposite side of the galaxy, so she wanted to be sure everything went smoothly. It would help though…if Trissan wasn’t being nosy and poking his snout into every little nook and cranny of the ship: she had to drag him out of the cockpit twice already.

“Can I fly it?” Trissan asked, having planted himself right beside her while she checked the circuitry in the navigation console.

“No Trissan.” Varcanna grunted as she had to put her head at an awkward angle to see some of connections. “Maybe when you’re older…”

“I’m old enough.” Trissan protested.

“No you’re not.” Varcanna countered. “You can’t reach the controls yet.”

“Yes I can!” Trissan climbed up into the pilot’s chair and attempted to reach the controls. He had to sit on the very edge of the seat to reach them. “See?” The young Trandoshan grinned.

Varcanna chuckled and shook her head. Maybe he’ll make good pilot one day. She thought as she replaced the panel on the navigation console. “You still can’t fly it.”

“Why not?”

Varcanna sat up and looked at the youth in the eyes. “Because...you’re too busy getting tickled!” Before Trissan could react Varcanna grabbed him and started tickling him mercilessly. Trissan was thrown into fits of laughter, his still thin scales offering no protection from such an attack. After a few minutes Varcanna stopped and picked Trissan up, tucking him under one arm as she took him out of the ship.

“You cheat…you’re bigger then me.” Trissan protested, but too tired now to offer any resistance.

“Being bigger then you isn’t cheating.” Varcanna chuckled as she set the youth back down on the ground. “It’s an advantage. There’s a difference.”

Trissan snorted and wandered off, likely going to seek out what other kinds of mischief he can get himself into. Varcanna sighed, the weight of the danger they were all in starting to press down on her: she wondered if she’ll ever see him again. He was a trouble maker yes, but he and his siblings were the closest to having a brood of her own she will ever have.

Appreciate what you have… She thought to herself as she turned back to her ship. For you never know when it will all be taken away from you…

A couple hours later Rissonik came out with Silonik in tow. Silonik looked a bit nervous, which was understandable since this was his very first trip in a space ship. Rissonik looked equally nervous, though for different reasons.

“Everything looks good.” Varcanna said. “No signs of foul play and I’ve been with the ship all morning.” She added with a smirk, noticing there was only one small bag for luggage. “I see you managed to keep mother from packing the whole house.”

“That was a big battle trust me…” Rissonik said with a sigh, shaking his head with a faint smile. Like any mother, grandmother in this case, Naosha was being overly protective.

“You ready to go Silonik?” Varcanna asked, kneeling down in front of the young Trandoshan. Silonik simply nodded and allowed her to guide him into the ship.

“Varca…becareful.” Rissonik said.

“You too Uncle, it would be nice to still have a home to return to.”

“If things go bad and if I am able…I’ll send you a message.”

Varcanna nodded and climbed into the ship herself. A few moments later Hunters Way was a rapidly shrinking speck in the sky. Rissonik sighed and turned to head back to the temple, to prepare himself for the assembly.

Today will mark either the beginning of a new era for the Clan…or it’s end. He thought.

~

The Great Hall was easily the largest room in the temple and lavishly decorated. Busts of noted warriors and Sha’tors of the past lined the walls, including that of the Clan’s founder. Hunting trophies of importance to the whole clan also served as décor (with the exception of the K’Satizitus skull, which hung in a different room), most consisting of the polished skulls of Sha’tors from other Clans. There was a raised section of floor about three feet wide on either side of the hall and ran the length of it, curving inward to connect with each other. At the far end of the room two stairways, one on either side, lead up to a balcony: only the Sha’tor and distinguished visitors were allowed to speak from there. Behind the balcony was a small doorway which lead to a small room where speaks awaited their turn to speak, should there be more then one. Hanging from the balcony was a black banner depicting the Clan insignia: two green Trandoshan hands crossed at the wrist, open with fingers spread and a drop of blood dripping from each claw.

With the amount of wealth and upkeep needed for the room there was a strict ‘no weapon/no fighting’ rule. This meant one could insult another without the risk of getting his or her throat slashed in here, but that protection faded the moment they walked out the door. Still, it was a rule Rissonik intended to use to his fullest advantaged this day.

He stood on the balcony, watching members file into the room. It was hard to mask all the nervousness and anxiety he was currently feeling and had to force himself not to grip the edge of balcony so tightly. Rissonik felt a measure of relief when he spotted Silliss enter the room and make his way to the very front, close to one of the stairways. If things started to turn bad he will no doubt rush up to protect his leader…or bring about his death: you didn’t need a weapon to kill after all.

Soon just about everyone was in the room, a group nearly 500 strong. There were also roughly 40 warriors and 10 K’Satikur warriors that were currently off planet and unable to attend, but Rissonik was more worried about the ones here in the room at present. He rose a hand, signaling for silence. He let the silence hang a moment before starting to speak.

“My fellow K’Satikur, for generations we have followed the old traditions, followed the will of our goddess and it has served us well. Through both the good and bad times we have endured and survived because of this. Beyond our planet however, factions continue to rise and fall. Some falling due to tragedy, others to foolishness: the late Diversity Alliance is the latest example of the latter.” There were a few chuckles and nods of agreement from the crowd. “We have survived as a people because the other races both fear and respect our strength and abilities and those races that know of the K’Satikur know better then to evoke our wrath: even members of our own race shutter when they hear our name!” There was a loud cheer and Rissonik calmly waited for the ensuing chatter to quiet once again.

“Still…” He continued. “The galaxy is a dangerous place even for us: we are certainly not loved by other races. As rival factions grow and become stronger and bolder, our people come increasingly under risk of coming under attack. Since we are unloved…no one would care if we fell. No one would care if we became the slaves instead of the slavers.”

There were numerous mummers and nervous glances, especially among the younger members. Some, mainly senor members, growled in defiance at even the possibility they could be brought to such a low level in the future.

Now for the hard part. He thought. “You all know what happened at the most recent meeting of the Elder Council Counselor Nasoha was ousted and called a blasphemer for suggesting we as a people change our image for the better.” He began. “Now I know some of you may agree with her position and others, understandably, are against her. Differences in opinion in many matters are trivial when it comes to the health of the Clan as a whole. The pure nature of the opposing opinions in this case however, threatens to tear part this Clan which has survived for countless generations. Do you not feel the tension as I do among each other?” There were many nodding heads. “I, as Sha’tor, do not wish to see our temple grounds to become awash with blood, blood split by fellow Clan members over this. To start fighting among ourselves would bring this Clan to it’s doom, for rival Clans are always watching…waiting…for us to show weakness.

“Normally, showing one’s disloyalty to the Sha’tor would mean death, especially for those that have achieved the honorable status of K’Satikur Warrior.” More nodding was seen, especially among the K’Satikur Warrior ranks. “And the rule we have placed on this hall permits those of opposing opinions debate their side without risk of losing their lives, provided the differences were settled before setting foot beyond it’s walls. Starting now and until sunset of the next day, I extend that rule to the whole grounds.”

There were mummers and whispers going all around. Rissonik again waited patiently for the crowd to quiet down. “I do this so that I may know who side is everyone on…so I may determine what course the Clan as a whole may go in the future. So now I must ask you this: who among you sides with the ousted Counselor?”

The next few minutes were full of nervous silence. Members looked at each other, wondering who if anyone would step forward and proclaim such a thing. Rissonik started to wonder if Silliss was lying to him and that his whole speech was for naught. But just then one Trandoshan stepped up on the raised portion of floor that nearly encircled the room: it was Silliss.

“I side with Counselor Naosha Sha’tor.” He proclaimed. “I feel a new era is upon us…and that Naosha’s course is the path to take.”

“Well I don’t.” Another K’Satikur warrior growled from the opposite side of the room, stepping up as well. “The old ways have served our purposes well for generations…why change now.”

“Old ways have doing us well yes…” Yet another K’Satikur warrior argued back, joining Silliss. “But those that stubbornly keep with the old ways eventually get swallowed by the new, whether it be from the outside or from within.”

Rissonik watched as more and more Trandoshans moved to one side or the other, some adding their argument to the debate. It was nearly an hour before all members had moved to one side or the other, forming an alleyway between them. To Rissonik’s surprise it was nearly and even split in numbers. In terms of rank however it wasn’t such an even split, though it was better then Silliss had stated last night. Of the 80 or so K’Satikur warriors in the assembly, he counted 32 that were in support of Naosha.

“I wasn’t expecting such an even split in our numbers…” He said, spreading his hands and looking genuinely surprised.

“Perhaps not so even Sha’tor…” One from the opposing side spoke up. “If you let it be known which side you support.”

All eyes were on him then, both sides wondering who will get the backing of their leader (with the exception of Silliss, who already knew). Rissonik hesitated, feeling fear at how the opposing side may react. An all out fight could start despite the rules of the Great Hall.

Suddenly there were more mummers and grumbling from both sides: Rissonik feared his hesitation was making them assume things, things that could cause open aggression between them. He jumped when something…no someone touched his arm. He spun around, ready to fight if he had to, but immediately relaxed when he saw who it was.

“Naosha…what are you doing here?” He asked softly, the blue eyes of the Trandoshan before him leaving no room for doubt who it was.

“What do you think?.” Naosha replied, stepping up beside him. “Besides…I was sick of staying cooped up in your quarters.”

Rissonik smiled and took her hand into his: it was then the crowd knew which side he was on. There were growls of disappointment, even gasps of shock. Some on the opposing side looked like they were about to rush up to the balcony, but had quickly checked themselves, remembering and honoring the rule of the Great Hall.

“Oh how unexpected.” One from the opposing side said, his voice dripping with sarcasm. “Who’da thunk he be on the same side as the one he beds with.”

“My support for her in this has nothing to do with our bond.” Rissonik said, growling faintly.

“Yeah…right.” The male snorted. “I will not stay in a Clan that has a leader whose judgment is tinted by a blasphemous female.” The male then turned and stormed out of the Hall, soon followed by the rest of the opposing side. Soon Naosha and her supporters were left alone in the Great Hall.

“Well my friends…” Naosha said, watching as her supporters filled in closer to the balcony. “We have much to discuss…and new roles to be decided…”

***

Meanwhile in space Hunters Way was safely in hyperspace, having met no resistance leaving Trandosha. Now it was just a matter of time before they reached Naboo.

Silonik wandered around the ship, checking the cargo hold and cockpit areas with only mild curiosity. He was quickly becoming bored, his bag only having clothing and a few other necessities in it and was fast figuring out that this trip may not be as ‘fun’ as he originally thought it would. The youth was already missing his siblings, even Trissan, and was getting a bit homesick.

Eventually he went back up to the cockpit, where Varcanna was fiddling with the sensor settings, and asked the inevitable question:

“Are we there yet?”

The assembly with the remaining half of the Clan lasted a few more hours, Naosha detailing her ideas on how to go forward with her Separatist Movement. One of the major concerns that was brought up was where their main base of operations would be, for it would be foolish to stay on the Clan grounds. Most of the opposing half of the clan that had left would likely honor Rissonik’s amnesty period on the grounds, but they knew that as soon as word got out about the split, and that Naosha was at the head of the remaining half of the Council, that the Council would be quick to try to squash their rebellion before it got off the ground.

After much debate, it was decided that the old Clan temple south of the city should serve as their main base. Not wanting to waste any time, they gathered what supplies and weapons they could and set out. They left in small groups and took different routes to avoid suspicion: though the Clan grounds was nearly a kilometer away from the capital city, they could not risk being followed.

The place was a ruin, abandoned a few generations ago for the new one build closer to the city. It was the same place Rissonik was held prisoner by his brother Tnossok for twenty years…until his son Trazu and niece Varcanna rescued him. But Rissonik could use to his advantage, for he knew the place very well as a result of his imprisonment. Larger then the current Clan temple, the inside was a maze of corridors and rooms and had only had one functioning entrance. Rissonik knew which areas could be safely cleaned up and utilized, but his Clan members can only do so much of that themselves.

To make this place a fully functional base of operations required knowledge from professions few of his Clan members had any knowledge of. To get that knowledge required getting support from Trandoshans that practiced those professions and that meant sending members out to find them. For this, Rissonik and Naosha chose only those they knew they could trust for this task, mostly from the lower ranks since they wouldn’t be as easily recognized. It was a dangerous task and Naosha warned them to keep low, not to draw attention to themselves, and to be discreet in their methods of searching for more supporters.

Soon their new covert agents had left, some heading to other cities other then the capital, and all the remainder could do is clean up what they can and wait. Fortunately, to help pass the time Silliss offered to start training Trissan, which Rissonik was grateful for, for it would help keep the troublesome youngster out of trouble. Rissonik and Naosha meanwhile kept an eye on the three girls and made back up plans in case they were discovered there.

“Riss?” Naosha said, noticing the far away look on Rissonik’s face. “You ok?”

“Hmm? Oh, sorry, just thinking about how ironic this seems.” Rissonik replied, looking over at her.

“How is it ironic?” Nasoha asked.

“Well…it was here that I saw our son for the first time, freed by him, and that is what enabled me to bring the Clan back from it’s darkest days. Now we are using this place to try to bring our race back from may just be our darkest days, only no one sees it as such.”

Naosha nodded, smiling faintly. “If this is indeed our races darkest days…then we are the first to see the light.” Her smile faded. “Let us hope that light isn’t extinguished by the arrogant.”

Rissonik could only nod solemnly. Until their support grew, hope was pretty much all they had against such overwhelming odds.

Besk walked through the numerous cooridors and passages in the upper levels of the Council of Elders, making his way to Hyossk’s personal chambers. Last time the middle-aged mercenary was here, he had told Hyossk about the Diversity Alliance’s betrayal and Naosha’s unexpected appearance at the scene where the Diversity Alliance met it’s sudden demise at the hands of the Trandoshan fleet. Hyossk hadn’t been bothered by the ousted Councilors seemingly desperate act and blew off Besk’s suggestion to have her killed. Today Besk was going to tell the Speaker-of-All how foolish he was in that decision.

He reached the entrance and let himself in. Inside he saw the Elder Councilor toying with a female. Besk could tell by the scars on the back of female’s neck that she had be taken a few times, but he could also tell by her flamboyant attire that she was likely sterile: no respectable fertile female would dress that way.

He snorted faintly, not knowing why sterile females were allowed to live in the first place. Breeding was the most important aspect of their lives and he felt that sterile females served little purpose: he had sent one of his own daughters to a research lab when he found out she wasn’t fertile. Whether or not she survived what the scientists had planed to do to her he didn’t care.

Besk just stood there waiting patiently for Hyossk to notice him, ponder how the Elder will react when he finally notices he was being watched. It was the female that noticed him first and with a surprised yelp she had jumped away from the Elder: she was one that apparently didn’t like having an audience. Hyossk looked a bit baffled for a moment, before he finally noticed Besk standing there, grinning at him.

“Most people knock first.” Hyossk growled. “Do you know just how hard it is for one my age to have a bit of fun?”

“I have information you need to know.” Besk said, ignoring the Councilor’s protest.

Hyossk snorted and dismissed the female, who looked disappointed but did not complain. “This information had better be good.” Hyossk hissed, sitting down on very soft seat that formfitted itself against his body. “Especially since I hadn’t requested that you seek out any.”

“Even though it was information gained on my own personal time Councilor…I felt it was important enough to come to you immediately.”

“Well then spit it out.”

“First off…I wish to commend you on your wise decision to let Naosha continue to live.” The sarcasm in his voice obviously displeased Hyossk, for his eyes had narrowed to mere slits.

“She is of no threat to me or anyone else Besk.” Hyossk said with a snarl. “No Dosh in their right mind would support her.”

“Then there are a lot of Dosh that are ‘out of their mind’…” Besk said with a chuckle.

His comment caught the Elder off guard, his eyes widening a margin. “Explain.”

“You mean you haven’t heard?” Besk teased. “The K’Satikur Clan has just dumped half it’s members…all of whom support the Council and the old ways. Guess who is at the head of the remaining half?”

Hyossk’s eyes widened considerably now and the Elder leaned forward in his seat. “But Naosha is unable to lead that Clan for she is not a direct descendant of their founder.”

“No…but she is bonded to the Clan’s Sha’tor, Rissonik, who no doubt supports her.” Besk grinned he added. “Oh and if you plan to send forces to the Clan grounds to wipe the deviants out…it’s already too late for that: they have abandoned the Clan Temple.”

Besk’s grin grew ever wider as the look of panic formed on Hyossk’s face. If Naosha was able to get support from half of the one Clan he least expected to go for such ideas…

“We got to find them…” Hyossk said, his voice desperate. “Find them and stop them before their support grows.”

“But sir…much of our forces are involved in the war with the Wookiees…” Besk pointed out, enjoying the torment he was inflicting on the old Dosh.

“If I have to…I’ll recall the fleets.” Hyossk growled. “We cannot afford to have a Rebellion within our own society.”

That will surely have the furballs scratching their heads Besk thought, wishing he could be on the bridge of their flag ship if the Trandoshan fleet did suddenly withdrawl like that. However he also recognized the danger of such a desperate move. The Wookies would no doubt think the withdraw as a victory for them and press on to Trandosha itself.

Another possibility came to mind: what if the Wookiees found out about this rebellion and decided to assist the rebels? He mentally shuddered at the thought. “Councilor Hyossk…” He said. “Recalling the fleet may be a bad idea…”

“I don’t care…” Hyossk hissed. “Stopping this rebellion is first priority…let the furballs think what they may, if they have the ability to think at all. You are dismissed.”

Besk opened his month to argue, but decided to against it. He bowed his head and took his leave, his grin long faded due to the new revelation. He made his way out of the Council of Elders, realizing he may have just furthered Naosha’s cause without meaning to. Now he knew he had to take steps to try to prevent that possibility.

Besk, like most of his people, had a low opinion of Wookies, but unlike most he knew Wookies were smart and not the ‘dumb animals’ many liked to believe. That was why they made such good hunting targets. The risk of the Wookiees deciding to help Naosha was real and steps needed to be made to ensure the they never found out about the little rebellion going on Trandosha…even if he had to do it all himself…

****

Naosha was pleased, yet disturbed at the sheer amount of support they were getting so quickly. At first it was a tickle…but as word spread about the movement that trickle became a steady stream and this worried her. She knew the busier this place got the more likely their hiding place will be discovered and action taken against them: she held no doubts that the Council knew about what happened with the Clan.

The most worrying though, was that there was no guarantee that all of these new supporters were really on their side. Any one of them could be a spy. It was for this reason she opted to keep herself in the deepest parts of the ruins, where only those that were proven to be loyal to her and her cause were allowed to see her personally. Plus, she always had a K’Satikur warrior with her, which was a big enough deterrent for most of those with assassination on their minds.

Rissonik on the other hand, was more visible among their supporters, serving as Naosha’s voice for those she didn’t quite trust. She knew his life was a risk as well and insisted that he kept a K’Satikur warrior close at hand as well. Of course the one loophole she knew about was the kids: those that would want to hurt them both could use the kids against them and as adventurous as they were it was next to impossible to keep them under protection.

Naosha shook the worries out of her head and went back to scouring over the star charts someone managed to snipe. She was looking for a neutral planet they could flee to if things turned out bad. Of course, deciding on a place to go was one thing…getting there was another problem that would need to be worked out.

“You are going to wear out your eyes if you keep staring at those charts…” A voice said behind her, making her jump. She straightened up and leaned back into Rissonik’s arms and let herself relax a bit. “Besides…you’re looking for a new home a bit soon aren’t you?”

“At the rate we are growing…no.” Naosha replied. “We already have an amount equal to the number the Clan was at before half the members left. It won’t be long before these ruins are filled and with that many people here we might as well put a neon sign outside saying ‘Dosh Rebellion Here’.”

Rissonik chuckled, but understood what Naosha was getting at. “Well unless we get support from those that own ships, deciding on a new place to live won’t do us any good.”

“I know…it would help if we had supporters that knew a bit more about the other planets. I don’t like shooting blind. It would help if there was some way to gain support from other races…but it looks like the Diversity Alliance was our best…and only hope on that end.”

“You’re being a pessimist.” Rissonik licked her cheek. “And when was the last time you got any sleep?”

Naosha thought moment and realized she couldn’t remember exactly when she last slept. “I don’t remember…” She admitted. “But I don’t have time to rest now…”

“Sure you do. In fact…” Rissonik suddenly picked her up, making her yelp in surprise. “I’m making you time right now.”

“Riss…” Naosha protested as Rissonik carried her to their sleeping area. “This ain’t funny…put me down.”

“Yeah well a leader who isn’t thinking clearly due to lack of sleep isn’t funny either.” Rissonik said pointingly, the two K’Satikur warrior guards that were by their side chuckling politely.

He set her down on a bedroll and she pulled him down beside her. “Don’t leave me…” She pleaded, feeling suddenly lonely.

“I don’t intend to.” He replied softly as they cuddled up together. Naosha relaxed, the sound of Rissonik’s beating heart and breathing soothing her and eventually she fell asleep.

She slept soundly for the first time in days.

Tzhali stoud on the bridge of the destroyer, he was maining the weapons station and had been firing on several other transdoshan destroyers

He watched the displays as one of there destroyers took a hit on the starboard side and mushroomed, he looked away from the display and covered his eyes as a wash of intense light covered the screen.... then faded

"Where lossing this battle", he said. Even though he was the captain of the destroyer he was also the most experienced in this field

He heard one of his bridge officers, who wasn't a wookie but rather a human speak, "There jumping out...", she said

Tzhali glanced at the display, "Your right... but why? When ever they start something they finish it... somethings not right about this", he said and gestured toward his engeneering officer.

"Lets see what there up to", he said and took a seat.

Tzhali was a young officer, in human years he would be considered old, but in wookie years he would be considered young. He was the only wookie in his family to ever manage a captains rank

They jumped out of system, and to a near by planet. He glanced at the star charts

"Where are we? This isn't where the fleet jumped out to", he said

"No clue", she a male human, "But we should've jumped into the same system the Trandoshans jumped into", he was confused

Tzhali turned away and thought, "Theres a planet nearby, take us to it.. after that lets check it out, parhaps we'll find something that explains whats going on here. Also inform the fleet of our current situation

he heard a moan coming from my officers, but ignored it

We moved our ship toward the planet, and took a shuttle down to the surface. He hostered a bowcaster and a human blaster, he had two other wookies with him.

"Lets see what's down here", he said to his companions, "Parhaps, like I said before, we'll find out why that fleet jumped out"

After hearing the feed from the local news, Naosha knew that their efforts to spread the word about their rebellion has worked. Just knowing the rebellion existed was enough for Hyossk to recall the fleet, which likely left some very confused Wookiees on the battlefield.

But this development also brought new danger. No doubt Hyossk intended to use the Trandoshan military to weed out her supporters and eliminate them. This meant that unless she had high ranking supporters in the military itself, her rebellion was likely to be very short lived indeed.

This was why, in conjunction with spreading word about the rebellion, she had her agents infiltrate the news studios to leak information to the worlds outside of Trandoshan space: she knew Hyossk wouldn’t want any word of a rebellion to spread beyond Trandosha. Whether or not this part of her plan would attract potential allies remained to be seen, but she honestly didn’t know if they had the time to see if any allies to show up.

We will need to stay low and pick our moves carefully now… She thought. Otherwise this will all be for nothing.

“Councilor Naosha.”

Naosha turned to regard the young warrior that had just entered the chamber. “Yes want is it?” She asked.

“We just got word from our spies in the radar facility that a Republic Class Destroyer just appeared over Trandosha.” The warrior said. “Apparently…one of the Wookiee ships followed the fleet back home.”

“No doubt wondering why the fleet just up and left the battlefield.” Naosha said. “Perhaps we should let them know…hmm…where is Rissonik?”

“Top level Councilor, supervising the long range communications array being set up there.”

“Thank you. You are dismissed.”

The warrior bowed his head and left, leaving Naosha alone in the chamber with her guard. Wasn’t planning on staying there however and quickly left the chamber herself, her guard following. After some climbing and a few wrong turns, she reached the top of the temple, where Rissonik was assisting with the array set up.

“Rissonik.” She called to him. “I have a bit of news for you.”

Rissonik looked up from his work, a screwdriver in his mouth. “What news is that?” he said, after spitting out the screwdriver.

“Hyossk has recalled the fleet from the battlefield.” Nasoha started, then dropped into their Clan dialect. “Und gaoss whut fellewod thom hemo?”

Rissonik smiled and chuckled: he could safely guess what she was talking about. “Hew many?” He asked.

“Jast eno.” Naosha replied. “Bat I wunt te try te cemmanicuto with it. Is tho oqaipmont roudy?””

Rissonik frowned. He understood why she would want to hail the Wookiees, but there was a risk of their signal getting detected…and traced…by those they are trying to hide from. “Nourly.” He replied. “Hewovor wo de net huvo uny oncryptien oqaipmont yot, se it weald bo risky.”

“Bat it muy bo werth tho risk te try te got tho Wookiees en ear sido.”

Even though they were speaking the Clan dialect, the dialect didn’t disguise the word ‘wookiee’ and the other workers, who didn’t know the dialect, looked up at them with puzzled looks on their faces, wondering what their long time foe had to do with their rebellion. Their looks was not lost on Rissonik or Naosha.

“Wo nood te toll tho now rocaits…” Rissonik said.

“I knew.” Naosha said. “I’m jast net saro I cun trast ull ef thom yot…”

Rissonik nodded. “Semo risks nood te bo tukon.”

One of engineers piped up then. “The equipment is ready to go. Is there a transmission you would like to send right now?”

“Thank you and yes.” Naosha said. “There is a Republic Class Destroyer I want to get in contact with.”

Shocked faces looked her way.

“But…why…”

“Possible allies.” Naosha interrupted. “Now show me how to work this thing…”

Rissonik chuckled as Naosha grilled the engineer on how the equipment worked. Knowing his mate didn’t understand the Wookiee tongue he stuck close by as she managed to hail the Wookiee ship.

Tzhali and his small guard where planetside when there destroyer was hailed. His guard set up the proper equipment so he could listen in and reply

"What is it?", He said in an annoyed tone

"Tzhali, where being hailed by someone on the planet", A wookie voice came through the com line. Tzhali stoud there for a momment, then looked at his guard who nodded, "Keep the destroyers turrets online, just in case its a track and try to triangulate the signal, if its the trandoshans trying to find us we can use the signal to locate them", he said with a grin

"And if its this 'rebel' group we've been hearing about?", coms officer said

"Then we'll see what they want", he said and began listening.

Naosha blinked in confusion at the growling reply she got, suddenly realizing she didn’t understand a word the Wookiee was saying.

“Basically he’s saying ‘Yes we hear you…what do you want?’” Rissonik said, loosely translating the Wookiee’s response.

Naosha gave him a look that basically said ‘you better teach me how to understand them’ and he just nodded and gestured that she betting get talking before they broke off the connection. She sighed and collected her thoughts a moment before speaking again into the mike.

“Greetings Wookiees, this is Councilor Naosha, leader of the Separatist Movement.” She said in Basic. “I suppose you are wondering why the Trandoshan fleet suddenly left the battlefield like it did. We, the Separatist Movement, are the reason. The Speaker-of-All Hyossk fears our views of changing our society to one that is friendlier to other races and seeks to crush our rebellion before it gets off the ground. He and the rest of the Council do not want us to be a ‘stain’ on our peoples reputation, a ‘stain’ we feel needs to grow and eventually replace the old ways.

“That is why I am risking contacting you now. No doubt you are triangulating this signal to discover our location…our enemies would be trying to do the same if they discovered this transmission. If they do we can expect our location to be bombarded in short order. I only ask for your help, if not allegiance, to at least stop the senseless skinning of your people.”

She took a breath and waited to see how they will respond.