It is a fine, clear morning in Tatooine's spaceport of Mos Eisley. The planet's twin suns have just risen over the rocky cliffs to the east of the city and begun their journey across the brilliant blue sky above. An aged cargo transport is just lifting off into the morning traffic as the door to Docking Bay Eight rumbles open to emit half a dozen passengers, who begin to disperse into the dusty streets outside.

Across the street from the docking bay a young, blonde woman sits in a battered landspeeder, glancing through the exiting travellers. Here face lights up as she spots a dark haired young man with moustache who has just stepped out onto the street.

"Hey, Biggs!" she calls, waving to get his attention.

Biggs grins as he spots the woman, returning the wave as he negotiates his way through the crowds and passing speeders and swoop bikes.

"Kandji," he says warmly as he reaches the speeder, extending his arms to give her a brief hug, "Thanks for making the time to come out here for us. Hope it wasn't too much trouble?"

"Come on Biggs, you know it's no trouble," she grins, waving a hand as he throws his duffel bag into the storage compartment at the rear of the speeder, "How was the trip?"
This message was last edited by the player at 06:49, Tue 16 June 2020.

"Not too bad, all things considered," Biggs replies as he climbs into the seat beside her, "Not too many delays in transit and the food was actually edible."

"Wow, edible food, huh?" Kandji repeats with a twinkle in her eye, igniting the engine of the speeder and rumbling off into the traffic, "You're really selling this whole space travel thing."

Biggs grins back, reaching back to pull a datapad from his bag.

"Right. Let's see here. Looks like Angel and Mitts are right on time. Their transport is docking in Bay Three."

"Bay Three," Kandji repeats, nodding as she glances up at the series of signs above them, following the directions to the bay in question.

"So, how's your father?" Biggs asks as they drive, "Repair shop still doing all right?"

Kandji tilts her head.

"Eh. Doing all right, I guess. Business has been pretty quiet all around Anchorhead lately. Hutts have been a bit annoying. And Fixer is being Fixer, of course," she adds with a grimace.

Biggs shakes his head with a chuckle.

"Some things never change, eh?"

"Right," Kandji agrees with a grin of her own.

"So, how's Academy life? Managed to beat all the flight records yet?"

"Some of them," Biggs grins modestly, before shrugging, "It's all right. Get's a bit repetitive after a while. And some of the cadets make life... interesting."

"Oh, right. How are things with that guy? Kelvan, was it?"

"Klivian," Biggs replies darkly, "Yeah, Klivian's still being Klivian."

Kandji gives him a sympathetic grimace as they pull up outside Docking Bay Three.

"There they are," says Biggs, waving at the pair of girls as he clambers out of the speeder, "Mitts! Angel! Over here!"

After some deliberation with the parents, it was decided that standard transport was the way to go for Tatooine because the hutts actually protect the standard transports, lest they lose reputation and thus, money.

It's ironic, but trusting your fate in the hands of a transport headed for Tatooine is safer and generally less of a headache than taking one's own ship.

And so, Angel is walking off a standard transport ship with Mittens.

Angel is wearing a brown, hooded cloak with light off-white robes and light brown loose pants underneath. Her clothing looks very plain and very... local. She learned her lesson from last time and has since learned it is usually best to dress like the locals do. But she also has a duffel bag.

Upon seeing Biggs, Angel smiles and waves. She picks up the pace, walking a bit faster, but keeping herself from jogging or anything. As always, Angel is methodical. She had in mind how she was going to descend this ramp back when she first boarded it.

She already spoke with Mittens about not running to Biggs, no matter how excited she may be. The reasons given had to do with ports being busy and ports like the ones on THIS world would welcome someone being careless to take advantage of.

"Biggs!"

She will give the guy a hug when she gets close enough to do so.

One thing Mittens learned from Tatooine.  Deserts are hot.  Especially ones with 2 suns.  So she got herself a Kamperdine Clothing Specialists CSC-5000 Body Glove™ Luxury temperature control suit with some of the credits she looted from a bunch of criminals she captured.

One thing she's learned from moving up in the difficulty of her training is that getting shot more often is quite the hassle.  So she got herself some armor.  ( https://vignette.wikia.nocooki...st?cb=20100721073020 )

But armor and a wet suit won't protect your eyes and face from Tatooine's blazing suns, so she also got a pair of sunglasses and a straw conical hat for the trip.  It might kinda make her look like a droid bounty hunter, but she kinda doesn't mind.

Mittens thinks it unwise to hug a guy in the presence of his female friend on Tatooine considering the nasty woman that was Fixer's girlfriend, but she won't try and stop Angel.  She smiles and waves to Biggs, approaches with surprising restraint, and offers a high-five.  "Grats on surviving the Achademy so far, Grand Krayt Dragon."

Biggs reaches the girls, giving Angel a hug, and returning Mitts' high five.

"It's great to see you guys!" he laughs, "Hard to believe it's been almost a year! You right with that?" he adds, glancing at Angel's duffel bag and offering a hand.

Angel giggles from Mitts' bringing up Biggs' old nickname.

Angel gives a girly shrug and smile at Biggs. "Thanks for the offer, but I'm alright. Been sitting for a few hours, so it's nice to stretch my legs and carry something around for a few minutes if you know what I mean."

Angel walks alongside Mittens, but also tried to keep Biggs at one of her sides. If Mitts decides to walk beside Biggs, Angel will settle for Biggs being between her and Mitts. "A lot can happen in a year. Especially when you have Mittens for a friend."

Mits grins.  "Good to see that Empire indoctrination hasn't taken the gentleman out of you yet.  But yeah, she turned down my offer too."

She looks about at the impulse shop vendors selling sunscreen, sunglasses, and other 'you should have thought of this before coming to Tatooine,' items.  "Mittens has this habbit of buying a token souvenir for Angel first thing upon landing.  It's something she was sad about failing to do when they first came to Tatooine, but excusable considering.

"By the Force, these prices are nuts.  But Mittens promised herself she'd keep to her tradition!"

Mits purchases a supposedly "authentic" (actually, it is,) Tuscan Raider ammo belt and offers it to Angel with a proud smile.

To Biggs, she adds, "I've got a bigger gift for you, but that'll be for later."

Biggs nods to Angel, retracting the arm. He chuckles at her comment about Mittens.

"Let's be honest, a lot can happen in five minutes when you have Mittens for a friend."

At Mittens' comment about the Empire he glances about apprehensively.

"Best keep your voice down," he says grimly, though not unkindly, "I know this isn't an official Imperial port, but still..."

"Yeah, Mos Eisley prices are ridiculous," he agrees, waiting for her to buy the belt, "And I hope you didn't get anything too much for me. You really didn't have to."

After she has finished her purchase he begins to lead the way over to the speeder.

"Come on, I'll introduce you to Kandji."

To the 5 minutes comment, Angel smirks. "Right you are..."

She ohs and nods to the warning about talking smack of the Empire.

Angel smiles at the gift. "Thanks, Mitts." and straps it on before following. Her own tradition is to get Mittens a gift on-world, but not at the airports. It's cheaper and there is a better chance of finding something Mitts wants.

The ammo belt is a sweet addition to Angel's possessions, though. "Sounds good, Biggs."

Once she gets to the speeder, she lets Biggs do introductions before she offers a handshake to Kandji.

Mits smiles from her friends' compliment.  And that Biggs passed her not-so-subtle test to see if a year of Achademy training would be enough for him to lecture her for hinting that the Empire is anything less than perfect.

"Fear not, Grand Krayt Dragon!  Mittens is aware that this isn't Mon Cala. Nevertheless, Empire sympathies aren't exactly high in this region of The Galaxy."

Mits so happy that her gift was well received!  "You betcha, bestie!"

Mits guesses at where would be best for her to sit and takes the seat behind the driver seat, shifting her knapsack around so she doesn't spend the trip hunched forward.

"Nice to meetcha, Kandji!  I'm sure you've guessed my name."

She thrusts her hand forward.  Mittens is socially impatient, too.

Kandji grins and waves at the girls, climbing out of the parked landspeeder as they arrive and, ignoring their proffered hands, gives them each a hug.

"It's lovely to finally meet you both!" she says, "Biggs has told me loads about you!"

"You must me Mittens," she guesses with a laugh, "And I love your outfit! I've always wondered what people wear on Coruscant!"

She climbs back into the speeder, setting off into the street.

"Are you two all right back there? Sorry, this landspeeder is probably a bit cramped compared to what you are used to on Coruscant."

"Kandji's the daughter of Kemnan, a mechanic in Anchorhead," he explains as they set off, "She's also the best batanga player that I know," he adds, drawing a flush and a bashful grin from the girl.

"Now, I apologise but it's going to be a bit of a drive back to Anchorhead. Only consolation I can offer you is frozen pika's and iced water once we get back to my father's estate. Luke will also be joining us there later this afternoon."

What a friendly lady! Angel returns the hug. "Goodness..." she says with a smile.

Once aboard, Angel says, "Oh it's fine. Mittens and I have had to be in a one-seater escape pod for hours. More than once. I'm just happy to be here." she rubs her side against Mittens as if to emphasize the point.

To Biggs, she says, "Those sound like wonderful consolations. But honestly? Long road trips just mean we can chat without others walking in on our conversation."

Mits is rather surprised by the hug.  Especially given the impression she had of Tatooine women being terrible creatures.  She returns the hug with that certain special, "Oh wow I wasn't expecting a hug, this is awkward," pat-pat.  Biggs wouldn't keep company with a pick-pocket, would he?  Mits nonchalantly checks that her lightsaber is still there just to be sure.

What's with Tattoine and all her mechanics?  Yeesh.

She chuckles from being accused of having Coruscant fashion sense.  "Uh...  Only a bodyguard would be dressed like this on Coruscant.  Or pretty much anywhere.  And if you want to talk about crowded, you need look no farther than that planet.  This amount of elbow room would be considered high luxury there."

Mits lights up when Biggs chimes in.  "Pikas!  Ohmygosh!  HowcouldIhaveforgotten!  Looking forward to it!"

"Batanga?  Never heard of it.  And Mittens knows a LOT of games.  I simply must learn how to play!"

She chuckles at Angel's anecdote and returns the shoulder bump.  "Closeness is wonderful when shared with a bestie like Angel.  The only downside of those escape pod trips was not having room enough to play games.  So I settled on puppet shows."

"Oh.  And just so you know, Kandji, I'm a jinx.  That comment about things happening every 5 minutes around me isn't for nothing.  So keep your eyes peeled for trouble.  Just say'n."

"Sheesh, that sounds cramped!" Kandji grimaces sympathetically to Angel's comment about escape pods, "Sounds like a story there. More than one."

"Oh, right!" she giggles when Mittens explains her outfit, "I was going to say... I've heard Coruscant fashion can be a little weird, but well... er, not that I'm saying your weird! I mean, you do have a definite style going there..."

"The batanga is an instrument," she laughs, "And just ignore Biggs, I'm really not that good!"

To the jinx warning she nods, keeping an extra close eye out as they pilot their way out of the spaceport.

Biggs chuckles.

"More bounty hunter than bodyguard, I would say Mittens. Still, you fit in easily enough in Mos Eisley. And Angel, you're almost more local than the locals in that outfit. Always attention to the minutest detail."

Mittens' pika reaction seems to be the reaction he was hoping for, as he grins at her excitement.

"Hopefully they taste as good as you remember! And hopefully Windy hasn't eaten them all," he adds with a wink at Kandji.

"So, stories! What's new with you two?"

Angel says, "I'd still like to see you play the batanga, Kandji."

Angel nods to Bigss' assessment of more bounty hunter than bodyguard. Then he asks for stories. "Well.. speaking of bounty hunters, there was that one bounty hunter who was gunning for Mitts because of a case of mistaken identity. One of the downsides of being a member of a minority race in the galaxy; someone says "cat girl" and all the sudden that means Mittens because 'how many cat girls can there be in this space station?' But as the guy found out the hard way, Mittens had backup that wasn't mentioned because she wasn't the kitty he was after. Thankfully, Mittens and I have a strict no-kill policy that has served us real well. A lot better than most who go around shooting at people want to admit or even believe. But in this case? It meant we didn't kill a guy who was actually after a bad person and wasn't intending to use lethal force himself."

"Mittens' first thought was to perform a puppet show of the first time she and Angel were both stuck inside a one-seater escape pod, but upon reflection she realizes that such a thing would be distracting for the driver and best left for later.

"Fear not using the 'weird' label when referring to Mittens, for she has fully embraced her many weirdnesses and is proud of them.  Mostly.  (Though be not surprised should Mittens fear not using the same labels in return.  'What's good for the goose is good for the duck,' is a quip that this being holds firmly to.  So while your modesty does you credit, Mittens will apply the imperative to 'ignore' to itself and thus retain trust in what Biggs says."

Mits smiles at Biggs' approval of her ensemble.  While she's wondering which stories to tell and in what order, Angel beats her to the punch with one of the times Mittens needed rescue.  Which was... pretty often, come to think of it.  Mits has this tendency to push the limit of her ability no matter how much it improves.

"Having a crack shot watching your back is amazing, yes.  Still annoyed that guy got the drop on me...

"Speaking of no-kill policy, it makes me wonder how many of Biggs' classmates have been seriously injured, emotionally scarred, or imprisoned in his first year.  The Empire has little love for 'the weak' recruits from what I've heard and are rather fond of live-fire exercises to 'weed them out.'  Got any stories for us, Biggs?"

Kandji smiles shyly at Angel's professed interest in still hearing her play the instrument. However she seems more interested in their stories.

"Wow! Your lives really are exciting! I've seen holovids which were less dramatic. Well, I'm glad to hear that no one got killed who shouldn't have, and that things all worked out."

Biggs listens to their stories with interest.

"Poor bounty hunter. I certainly wouldn't want to mess with you two! But as Kandji says, I'm glad things all worked out. Too many people forget that blasters have a stun setting."

At Mittens' question about Biggs' stories and her allusion to the darker practices of the Empire, Biggs sends a cautious glance at Kandji.

"There have been a few injuries, yes," he admits, "Most of the exercises I've done this year though have been simulations. Lucky too, or half the class probably would have died. Still, you always have classmates who are intent upon making things unpleasant for those around them. Have I mentioned a cadet called Derek Klivian in my communications with you?"

To Kandji, Angel says, "Exciting... that's one way to put it, thanks."

To Bigg's comment about feeling bad for the bounty hunter, Angel blushes. "Thanks Biggs. Flattery will get you everywhere."

As Mitts makes with another Empire question, Angel says to Biggs apologetically, "Sorry Mittens isn't gentler with her speech, but she just wants to hear your stories. And we'd both be relieved to hear the empire isn't hurting you or people you care about. As to Derek Klivian, while you have mentioned the name, you didn't go into detail. Please do?"

"Mittens puts on her Alliance Recruiter hat.  'You too could live a life of adventure!  All you need is the courage to join in the noble cause to put an end to the Empire's tyranny!  Take that first step and your local recruiter will find you a home within our family!  _{(Paycheck may be delayed due to limited funding.)}'"

Mits blushes and a momentary flash of rage crosses her face, but she quickly reigns it in and replaces it with an "unamused" expression you might see on the face of an Imperial customs officer that was offered far too low a bribe.  ( https://media0.giphy.com/media/7KJCLcphS1PrO/giphy.gif ) "Mittens feels that she is as gentle as she can be considering Imperials wrecked her Daddy's mind by forcing him to watch Mommy get gunned down.  Nevertheless, she will not keep silent when well-meaning sheep are lured into the Imperial war machine only to be ground into nurfburger and grilled over the flames of burning worlds.

"This Derek Klivian guy.  He the kind to suck up to the teachers?  Keep company with cruel thugs that treat him like the pack's alpha?"
This message was last edited by the player at 02:53, Fri 19 June 2020.

Kandji listens to Mittens' stories about the Empire with a concerned frown.

"Wow, I had no idea the Empire had done such terrible things... I mean, I know Biggs hasn't been so keen on them since he joined the Academy, and my father has never been a big fan of them, but killing your mother? I'm... I'm so sorry. I don't know what to say..."

She bites her lip, sending Mittens a sympathetic look as she briefly halts to allow a series of landspeeders to pass through an intersection in front of them.
This message had punctuation tweaked by the player at 00:56, Mon 22 June 2020.

Biggs also frowns grimly at Mittens' story.

"Don't worry Mitts," he says with resolve, "I'm not going to let the Empire draft me into service, that's for sure. Still, some things are best left to discuss in the safety of family homes. You never know when the Empire might be listening..."

As he says this he glances darkly about at the passing foot traffic and merchant stalls before Kandji once more accelerates off.

"As for Klivian," he continues, "Yep. All of the above, Mitts. He's not a bad pilot, but he's arrogant and craftier than a sandsnake. He's got all the instructors in his pocket and a gang of the most thuggish members of our year to follow him around wherever he goes. I'm not convinced he isn't cheating, to be honest."

Angel pets Mitts' shoulder. "You see? Biggs isn't falling for it. You can calm down where that is concerned." She'll talk with Mittens about it later.

To the topic of Klivian, Angel says, "I realize what the old adage 'cheaters never prosper' means, but there really needs to be a better way to word it. Like 'cheaters prosper for a time, but in the end it catches up with them and they fall hard' or something."

Angel gets a look on her face like she has an idea and asks, "Besides piloting, what areas do you know you can beat him at? In particular, I'm curious if you think you could beat him in hand-to-hand combat."

Mittens is sooo glad Kandji didn't dismiss her loss.  Or worse, repeat what happened before.  It's such a hassle to keep emotions reigned in.  Though maybe it's a blessing in disguise.  Had she not been born attuned to Forcery and thus assigned a Space Zen teacher, Mittens would likely be a wanted killer by now.

"Thank you for your kind words, Kandji," Mits answers, calming down, "I can see now that I was right to assume, 'Well if Biggs likes her, she's gotta be awesome.'  Dad is a soldier in the Alliance.  So I've gotten into the habit of openly bad-mouthing the Imps all the time.  I apologize for putting you all at risk with my big mouth."

Mits raises an eyebrow at Biggs claiming the Empire can't make him fight for them.  Clearly this must mean he's already joined the Alliance.

"Sounds like Klivian is well on his way to being made an officer.  A poster child to 'prove' that the Empire is a 'meritocracy.'  What they don't mention in the propaganda is that what they consider 'merit' are all the traits of the classic High-school Drama boss bully."

Mits snickers at Angel's hinting at a fist fight between Biggs and Klivian.  "Hah!  That'd be a sight to see!  It'd be like that scrap between Fixer and Tank, only leveled up!

"But for what it's worth, Angel, Master would argue that the saying doesn't need any adjustment."

She puts a puppet on her hand that resembles her Master and quotes, "Klivian has already lost because he's a pitiful creature forever enslaved to his base instincts that'll just snowball with more and more chains the more he 'prospers' by being a monster."

Mits then realizes that Kandji might get the wrong idea from the title, 'Master,' and explains, "Oh.  In case you're wondering, Mittens is not a slave.  She takes martial arts lessons from a martial arts Master."

Kandji sends Mittens a sympathetic smile as they near the edge of the spaceport.

"I wish I had more to offer than just kind words."

Her smile turns a little shy as Mittens praises her.

"Aww, you're both so sweet. And don't worry about the Empire around here. I've never seen an Imperial soldier on this planet. I'm pretty sure this planet has nothing that would interest ever them."

"Ooh, you're a martial artist?" she says with interest, "You mean like Echani or Teräs Käsi and stuff?"
This message was last edited by the player at 04:43, Tue 23 June 2020.

Biggs also reddens slightly as Mittens mentions him liking Kandji, but he gives Angel a nod of agreement.

"Indeed. Cheating may cut corners, but it catches up with you sooner or later. Hmm, fist fight you say? Well, Klivian likes to boast how he goes to the hologym all the time, but I doubt he's ever been in a real brawl... Of course, brawling was always more Tank's forte... Maybe you could teach me a few martial arts moves? Although I know a lot of that takes years of exercises and conditioning before you can really use it properly."

"And it's all right, Mitts," he smiles, "I agree the chances of an Imperial spy listening in on us is pretty slim. Still, once we are out of the city and in the open it will be safer to talk about your father and this Alliance he is a part of."
This message was last edited by the player at 04:50, Tue 23 June 2020.

Angel says, "The martial arts Mittens is learning is more like fencing than Echani. So if you wanna learn some fancy sword work, that's most of what she knows. She and I both know a little Teräs Käsi, though, due to the sorts of enemies her master expects her to run into. Years of training to be good at it, sure, but it only takes an hour or two to teach some solid moves that will help out in most altercations."

Due to hanging out with Mittens, Angel knows enough Makashi to be an OK sparring-buddy for Mittens (and to hold off a dark jedi long enough for Mittens to save her bacon if it ever came to that).

Angel looks back at Biggs. "Reason I ask is... someone like Klivian needs to be kept from climbing the ranks. If you were to challenge him to a one-on-one fight and call him a coward if he backs down, his men might lose faith in him if he refuses, but also if he accepts and loses. Thugs tend to only respect people who can punch their way out of a problem. Not that I want you getting into trouble, mind you, but it is something to keep in mind. He may inevitably do the same to you, but if you wait till he challenges you, it'll be on his terms and he'll be ready with a way to cheat."

"Mittens thinks Kandji is super cute with her overflowing kindness, sweet words, and interest in art.  Eager as she is to give an immediate demonstration of the 'surprise hug' technique, speeder seat is in the way and Mittens' arms aren't that long.  So... Surprise pigtails!"

Mits takes out a pair of hair scrunchies and reaches over to give Kandji a pair of pigtails.

"Master has taught me a variety of martial arts, but yeah.  The main focus is Soresu - 'The Way of the Mynock.'  Never did get to prove to Biggs that I can deflect a blaster bolt with my glow stick.  Angel has taught me to be decent with a blaster, but she's the true master of that art.  Most times she can peg me on the second shot."

The first shot is to force you into an open position, making you easy prey for the second.  Master doesn't see the point in proving how many of Angel's shots he can block, so he's rebuffed every one of Mittens' arm-twists to give it a try.

"Much as I'd loove to see Mr. Bullyface get schooled, especially with one of our favorite techniques, clearly the wiser decision is to not return to the Academy."

The Master puppet explains, "Nothing teaches better than defeat, so why make your enemy stronger through 'teaching them a lesson' for free?  Being an obstacle for a creek over time gives it the strength of a lake."

Kandji grins at Mittens' flood of compliments, but she seems to be quite ticklish, giving a giggle and scrunching up her face as the pigtails ruffle around her. The speeder gives a sharp jolt to the left, causing Biggs to swiftly shoot out a hand to steady the controls. Kandji regains control of the vehicle, still giggling as a passing Dug shakes his head darkly at the speeder full of 'young hooligans'.

"Soresu? I've never heard of that. But I don't know anything about fencing. My dad does own an old vibrosword..." Kandji says after she has regained control of herself, "And what is a Mynock? Wow, blocking blaster bolts with a stick? I've never heard of anything like that before. You've got to show me that!"

"Sword fighting, eh?" Biggs says, "Well, maybe I could challenge Klivian to an old fashioned duel. Assuming they have those on whatever planet he comes from. But then we'd probably have all sorts of problems with the Academy. Fist fights happen all the time. Either way I like your thinking, Angel. I don't see how it can hurt to take him down a peg. And if he does happen to win, well, he can't be any worse than he is at the moment. So yes, if you have time to teach me a few moves that would be-"

He breaks off as Mittens does her pigtail hug and the speeder swerves, trying to look serious but grinning despite himself as Kandji giggles.

"Sorry!" he calls over his shoulder at the grouchy Dug.

"Hmm," he says after things have calmed down, "I can respect your Master's view Mitts, but I'm inclined to agree with Angel that sometimes the only way to stop a bully is to stand up to them. And if he learns a few things by getting a broken nose and getting pummelled into the dirt, I guess I can live with that. As for returning to the Academy, well, let's discuss that later."

When the near-accident happens, Angel pulls out a gun, but keeps it out of view. Once it calms, Angel puts her gun away and glances at Mittens. "Well now we know she's ticklish... I'll get her back for you, Kandji."

With that, Angel turns to tickle Mittens.

As she does, Angel answers Kandji, "Mynocks are these bat-like creatures that live in the vacuum of space and like to feast on energy, so they often chew on ship wiring and stuff. Soresu is about deflecting blaster bolts, so it is called "the Way of the Mynock" because of the Mynocks's tendency to wrap itself in its leathery wings to protect itself from predators."

She knows because as soon as she heard it was named after what most consider to be a  very annoying space-pest, she just had to know why.

Angel says to Mittens, "I don't know if "broken nose and wounded pride" is considered 'free', Mittens. Besides... sometimes, losing is what teaches us to be better people rather than just simply more skilled. And before you say it, I realize chances of Klivian learning to be a better man are microscopic, but I'm just saying." she sticks a tongue out teasingly.

Angel is guessing Mitts' master could block as many shots as his physical energy allowed. She figures if she were able to use the energy of youth, she might just wear the guy down till she got a hit in. But that would take a long time and probably wouldn't improve the skills of either her or the master. In short, Angel agrees with Mitts' master. Even if she'd like to see it proven just once.

"Wheee!"

As if she wasn't already having a ton of fun with the swerving speeder and the ticklish Kandji, Mits squeals and giggles like a child when Angel tickles her in revenge!  A quick exchange of Mittens parrying Angel's hands only to be tagged again from a new angle shows that while this young Jedi is no slouch at hand-to-hand, she's no match for her buddy.

"I surrender!  I surrender!  You win, Angel!"

Once things calm down, Mits considers the conversation, though still hyper-vigilant to defend from another attack from Angel.

"Ahem.  I see that Kandji didn't mind the surprise pigtails.  Mittens will be happy to give more demonstrations of her strange talents."

She nods, smiling that her friends are rejecting her Master's wisdom, just like she did.  "Hey, I can't disagree.  If it were me, I'd probably have already provoked the guy into a fight.  Your restraint proves that you are more mature than Mittens.  (Not that that's much to boast about.)  Even so, as a self-contradictory and selfish type person, Mittens is far more interested in recruiting Biggs to join her righteous cause than she is in sending him back into the meat grinder just for the satisfaction of knowing that a well-deserving bully will be getting clobbered.  Like for serious.  Here's how I expect this to go:"

A very villainous looking puppet appears on her hand and asks, "I do not care who started this fight.  What I want to know is for what cause did you fight?"

An exaggeratedly stupid looking puppet answers, "Sir, I am certain you already know the answer, sir!  As class leader, I could not allow a challenge to my position go unanswered.  I felt that it would be a disgrace to my uniform to do any less, sir!"

"And your answer, Private?"

Mittens answers, "He's a low-down, no-good, dirty, rotten, bully who abuses his position and harms the morale of my fellow students with his insults and..."

"That's enough!  The teachers and students alike have nothing but good to say about Klivian.  Your feelings were hurt so you resort to violent insubordination and slander?!  I've heard enough.  You'll be spending the next month in solitary confinement to think on your actions!"
This message was last edited by the player at 00:13, Wed 24 June 2020.

Kandji laughs as the girls have their tickle fight, reaching the edge of the spaceport and passing through a sandstone archway and out into the open desert beyond.

"Aha, right," she replies to the mynock explanation, looking as though she still doesn't really have much of an idea about what the creatures actually are. She grins at Mittens offer to demonstrate her strange talents.

"I look forward to it! You certainly have a lot of talents!"

Biggs also grins at the tickle fight, but he seems more interested in the theoretical fight with Klivian.

"I hope one day Klivian becomes a better person," he shrugs, "But I'm certainly not holding my breath."

He grins at Mittens' puppet show.

"Well, yes, I would have to be a bit more tactical than simply challenging him to a brawl in the mess hall or something. But I've also got a certain degree of respect from the instructors, so it would just be a case of timing it right and making sure I had a good excuse ready for the officers..."

Angel giggles from the puppet show and says, "Your ability to see ahead is getting better, Mittens. But you're right, I take it for granted people would not be impulsive and execute plans unprepared."

Angel looks about at the desert briefly and says, "Ah the memories. Two suns. Heat. Sand. Heat. Sand-*people*. Heat."

Angel reaches a hand forward to put it on Biggs' shoulder. "We really did miss you, Biggs. And worried for you. You know how it is. When you love someone, you worry for them even when they are Grand Krayte Dragons. But the flight here was worth it just to hear your reassurances in person."

She smirks. "Though I gotta say... Kandji alone is also worth the trip."

Angel leans back in her chair. "It's good we were able to stay in touch this past year, but you just gotta see friends face-to-face sometimes. I'm really thrilled to be here."

"Mittens regrets not having met the marvelous diamond in the rough that is Kandji the last time she was on Tatooine.  She wonders to herself what it is about this desert world that produces such great friends.  Come to think of it, seems like all of this Galaxy's cool people come from single-climate worlds.  Such as that awesome Bard family from Coruscant."

Mits chuckles darkly and glances sheepishly at Angel, "Thanks, but it's probably more hindsight.  My brief first time joining the Alliance ended in me getting kicked out by their officers.  Good excuses and impulse control aren't my strong suits.

"But yeah.  It's great to be back.  This place is so epic!"

Speaking of poor impulse control, Mits wedges her legs between the seat and side of the speeder to lean over the side and run her gauntlet along the ground to kick up some dust and sand.  "Whee!  Y'all mind if I try some sand-skiing?  Yeowch!  Hot!"

She retracts her hand and removes the now sand-blasted gauntlet.

Kandji smiles at Angel, then at Mittens.

"Aww, you two," she gushes, blushing, "You really are a nice change around here! Most people around here are so mistrusting of people and are always looking of ways to take advantage of people. You two are like a breath of fresh air!"

She laughs at Mittens' description of the planet as epic.

"I'm sure it's nothing compared to Coruscant, but Tatooine does have its charms. And it's home."

"Oh!" she adds to Mittens, "Careful, that's... hot."

Biggs grins at Angel as she pats him on the shoulder.

"It's good to see you both safe and sound too," he says warmly, "The galaxy is a dangerous place. And yes, I know exactly how it is."

His gaze strays to Kandji as he says this, before glancing back to Angel.

"Yes, I heartily agree with your assessment of Kandji, and look forward to hanging out with you two for a week or two. And I'll take a dozen suns and all the heat that comes with them over having to put up with Klivian and his goons."

"Kicked out by the Rebel Alliance?" he says to Mittens, "Now that is quite a feat, even for you! What happened?"

He laughs at her attempt at sand-skiing and her reaction.

"Yeah, probably better to try that this evening or early tomorrow morning."

Angel watches Mittens burn herself in the sand and reflexively grabs Mitten's tail to make sure she has one more anchor to keep from falling out. "One of the things Mitts and I agree on all the time is that variety is the spice of life. Coroscant, Tatooine... each place has its own charm that you can't get in the other. Many worlds are like that. So traveling is very much fun."

She looks to Biggs. "Evening seems better because then we could shower afterwords. How late will we be able to stay up tonight, though?"

She leaves the answering about being kicked from the Alliance to Mittens.

The tip of Mits tail spun about wildly when Angel grabbed the kitty's built-in leash.

"Mittens remembers getting a face full of hot Tatooine sand.  Thought that two layers of heat protection would be enough."

Mits sits back down, smiles impishly at Angel, and wraps the tip of her tail around her buddy's wrist.  "In Rimworld Tatooine, Tiger's tail got YOU!"

Mittens sighs when asked how she was kicked out of the Alliance.

"Basic training.  I'd already been given several warnings about insubordination and disorderly conduct.  We were doing P.T., jogging around the base perimeter, when I sensed danger from inside the nearby woods.  Knowing that the D.I. wouldn't listen to my warnings, I decided to try and head it off at the pass so my fellow students could get away.

"It wasn't long before I found it.  A big native animal.  Like a Reek.  And quite angry.  Fortunately not very bright, so I was able to out-maneuver it among the trees.  Unfortunately, my D.I. and fellow students decided to follow me into the woods.  And I'm sure you know how stubborn people can be.  No matter how much I shouted at them to get away, they wouldn't listen and opened fire on it.  Blaster fire was like pouring fuel on the fire.  Trees were toppled, people were injured, I was forced to kill the animal.  And of course I was told it was all my fault that I'd put everyone in danger.

"In retrospect, if I'd simply smacked the D.I. on the back of the head and run toward the base daring him to catch me, he'd have ordered everyone to run me down and nobody would have gotten hurt.  And I might have even been praised for saving the day.  But sadly, clever plans like that tend not to occur to me till much later.

"Upshot, I've been allowed to re-join and was even given a promotion.  Specialist Mittens!  Even PFCs have to salute her!  But that's a story best told with puppets."
This message was last edited by the player at 17:11, Fri 26 June 2020.

Biggs grins at Angel.

"Well, I don't know if Luke would agree with you about the 'charm' of Tatooine, but I suppose it is a nicer place when you are visiting for a week or two and can leave whenever you want. As for staying up, we can stay up as late as you want really. My father won't mind, and Luke will be staying at my place tonight so he won't need to worry about getting back."

He listens to Mittens' story with interest.

"A reek?" he frowns, "Never heard of it, but it sounds nasty, whatever it is. Sounds like it was a good thing you were there. It is unfortunate that sometimes heroic actions aren't seen for what they are, but I'm glad your merits have been recognised now, Specialist."

He gives her a salute and a grin.

Kandji smiles at Angel's praise of her home planet.

"Just don't venture too far from the house after dark," she warns grimly as they discuss their evening activities, "The sand people have been bolder than usual lately."

"Wow, maybe it is the sand people who should be watching out!" she says after hearing Mittens' story, "So, I'm going to look like the total noob here, but what is a D.I? And P.T? And PFCs?"

Angel answers for Mittens. "D.I. is Drill Instructor. P.T. is Physical Training. PFC is Private First Class. Also known as E3, because it's the third rank up in the Enlisted ranks. For instance, Specialist is E4." she chuckles and adds, "Military trains you to talk in acronyms. Don't feel bad for not knowing military terminology."

Angel then says, "Military life is for some, but not for me. I've heard too much about the command structure and feel like I wouldn't be a good fit. I'm more likely to be some kind of bounty hunter."

Angel ponders. "Sand people would make for good target practice. Speaking of, I've heard they have women, children, and a whole community?"
This message was last edited by the GM at 00:52, Mon 29 June 2020.

Mits grins and returns the salute.

"Thanks!  Never imagined I'd ever be saluted by an Imperial Cadet.  Will have to add that one to my list of unlikely achievements.

"Reek...  Imagine a giant lizard about three quarters the size of a bantha with three horns sticking out of it's head.  According to Master, they were a part of an epic Jedi battle on Geonosis during the Clone Wars.

"Far be it from me to begrudge anyone wanting to leave home and see the Galaxy.  Staying put isn't my style.

"Thanks for the warning, Kandji.  Chances are that I'd survive my second encounter with Sand People so long as I have a means of escape.  But also, chances are that once again, some of them would end up dead, and someone I care about would wind up wounded.  So I'll do my best to not put them or me in danger of killing one another.  Any rumors on what's got them more up in arms than usual?  Maybe I could ask Master to try and negotiate less aggression.  He'll probably refuse since natives that aggressive won't ever negotiate unless you kill several dozen of them, and he's not keen on killing en masse even if its for the greater good."

Mits smirks at Angel and points out, "Well technically we already are bounty hunters, Angel.  We've turned in several bounties.  Sort of.  Nevermind that Dad had to act as proxy because of our age."
This message was last edited by the player at 03:39, Mon 29 June 2020.

"Aha!" says Kandji, nodding at Angel's explanations, "Wow, I'd never remember all that! Makes you sound very cool though! As for sand people... Well, I've heard they have communities and stuff, and I guess they must have some kind of females and children somewhere, but I've never seen them. Only the men and their banthas. Unless the women dress like men... But yeah, I've never had any desire to know more about them than I have to."

"I have no doubt you two girls could deal with them if they attacked, with all the scrapes you have come through. Still, it would be a bit unfortunate if your holiday ended in a sand people shoot out or if either of you got hurt."

"They do have communities," Biggs confirms, "Luke and I once came across one of their camps while hunting womp rats near Beggar's Canyon. I mean, we saw it from the top of the cliff we were on. We didn't get close, but through our macrobinoculars we could see their children running about with massiffs. Hard to believe they grow up into such monsters."

At Mittens' suggestion of what her Master would do, Biggs nods grimly.

"Yes, unfortunately violence does seem to be the only thing they understand. When they get too aggressive a bunch of locals usually have to go and hunt them for a bit, which keeps them scared off for a while afterwards. But they always come back eventually. My father had a friend once who thought negotiating with them was the solution. Took a couple of moisture vaporators and a translator droid and went off searching for them. He was never seen again."

He does seem amused by Angel's bounty hunter aspirations.

"Boba Fett had better watch out if you ever decide to take up bounty hunting," he grins, "Though honestly I'm surprised you don't like the military life. You're probably the most structured and disciplined person I know."

"Of course I'm not surprised to hear you aren't cut out for the military life," he adds to Mittens with a wry grin.

To Mitts' comment of already being bounty hunters, Angel shrugs a shoulder with a sly smile. "...I suppose. You aren't officially a mechanic without the credentials, but if you have the skills, you are a mechanic no matter what a bureaucrat says. If the shoe fits, as the saying goes..."

Kandji's words make Angel giggle. "Make us sound cool? Thanks. But no worries... I'll make sure to avoid Sandpeople as much as possible. I'm here to visit Biggs, not Sandpeople."

She then says, "Sorry to hear about your dad's friend, Biggs."

Hearing Boba Fett's name makes her raise an eyebrow. "Boba Fett? Guess you would know more about bounty hunters than I do, given where you live."

Angel shrugs. "It's actually because I'm structured, Biggs... when I inevitably see things getting run horribly and give helpful advice or get proactive, I am bound to wind up in trouble with those in higher rank either because they get offended that I had a good idea when they didn't, or for reasons I wouldn't know because as a general rule, plans should always be a need-to-know basis. In short, I doubt I would handle idiot superiors very well."

With Kandji down-playing herself so much, Mits is beginning to feel like Kandji is kindofa "What if Windy were a girl," but she dares not voice this thought lest she embarrass her and Biggs both.

"Repetition works wonders, Kandji.  I'll bet you'd make for a fine rebel soldier.  Probably would make Lieutenant.  That you know how to pilot a speeder puts you above many of the rest.  And being from Tatooine makes you ten times grittier."

Mits shrugs at Biggs' comment about Sand People.  "Meanwhile, people like Grand Moff Tarkin came out of the womb nasty little pink raisins bent on conquering the nursery by bludgeoning plushies with a rattle."

She looks surprised at Angel's not having heard of Boba Fett, then ohs.  "Oh that's right.  You weren't there with Dad and I when the whole bounty hunter cantina sang a ballad of 'Fearsome Fett' and his exploits.  Most of it's probably exaggerated, but he is a Mandalorian.  And Master confirms that Mandalorian armor really can turn aside even Jedi lightsabers.  He's from around here?  Awesome!"

On the topic of Mits' suitability for military, a little devil puppet answers Biggs, "Actually, Mittens is far more disciplined than she lets on.  Why, her Master disciplines her several times a day!"

Mits closes the mouth of the puppet with her other hand.  "Silence!"
This message was last edited by the player at 05:30, Tue 30 June 2020.

Kandji smiles at Mittens with a laugh.

"Thanks! I've never really imagined being a soldier at all. I've shot a rifle like twice in my life. But I can definitely pilot speeders. Though maybe not through Beggar's Canyon at two hundred and fifty kilometers per hour," she adds with a glance at Biggs.

"I love your puppet shows," she says to Mittens, glancing back to catch snippets of the performance as they race across the sandy dunes, "You're very cute!"

Biggs nods in agreement with Angel's statement about not being here to visit sand people. At her condolences for his father's friend he nods grimly.

"It was a long time ago now, but yes, he was a good man, from what my father told me. My father tried to talk some sense into him, but he was convinced he could get through to them. I suppose he died trying to do what he believed in."

"Honestly I don't know much about Boba Fett," he admits, "I've heard the name once or twice from a mechanic who's done work for Jabba. Apparently he's not someone you want to mess with. Figured he was a local bounty hunter until I heard his name mentioned by one of the officer's at the Academy. If he's done work for the Empire then he must be pretty well known."

"Aha," he acknowledges Angel's explanation, "Yes, following orders blindly is kind of important in the army. And if you can't handle idiot superiors then I highly suggest never joining the Imperial Navy. We had this captain come to give us a guest lecture the other day, Ozzel I think his name was. Absolute idiot."

Biggs grins at Mittens' Tarkin argument.

"And yes, sand people aren't the only ones who turn into monsters when they grow up, I'll give you that."

Angel chuckles from Mitts' puppets and commentary, as usual. Concerning Boba Fett, she raises an eyebrow and says, "Sounds like the guy got himself a reputation. Mandalorian, eh? I always did wonder about those guys. How much of their reputations is real and how much is made up? Did they really attack worlds just for kicks? Does their armor really hold up to lightsabers? History is written by the victors, after all, so I am always skeptical of legend or even so-called commonly accepted historical facts. Though I also realize even myths can be based on the truth."

To Kandji, Angel smiles and says, "Yeah... Mittens is cute. It's one of her weapons against our enemies. Someone will see her, her pigtails, and her silliness and just assume she isn't a threat."

Mittens mews happily that her friends enjoyed the puppet!  She grins at mention of Biggs' more reckless stunts.  "Thankies!  Kandji is cute too!

"Sorry for your troubles with idiot Ozzel, but Mittens can't help but be very encouraged when hearing of the incompetence of Imperial officers.  This is good news for one so out-numbered and out-gunned."

Mits hugs Angel's arm from the kind compliment.  "Squee!  Blush!  Gratitude hug for flattery!"

She gazes toward the horizon, thinking on the "blindly follow orders" topic, and figures she'll build some on Angel's skepticism.  "Mittens follows orders.  With both eyes open.  She follows Angel's orders with a mind to maybe Angel was drugged.  She follows Dad's orders with a mind to his mental illness.  She follows Master's orders with a mind to maybe he's been replaced by a shape changer.  And she follows Alliance orders with a mind to the fact that they may have come from a double-agent.

"Should Master tell me to go rob Jabba's palace to sharpen my skills, or should Angel tell me that my latest idea for a stunt is perfectly safe and reasonable, I'll know something's up.  One should trust the trustworthy as far as they remain trustworthy.  Me and the military bosses may be like oil and water, but me and Dad trust them.  Conveniently, since I'm a 'special case,' I'm free to set my own schedule, and don't really need to worry much at all about taking orders."
This message was last edited by the player at 04:04, Wed 01 July 2020.

Biggs raises an interested eyebrow at Angel.

"Mandalorian is he? I hadn't heard that. They're some kind of planet full of warriors, aren't they?"

He grins at Mittens.

"Yeah, the Empire certainly has its share of incompetent officers. Of course, most of them compensate for it with cruelty."

He nods thoughtfully at her mentality regarding following orders.

"It is wise not to blindly follow orders," he agrees, "Although sometimes those giving the orders have knowledge that we don't. However in my experience it is the leaders who make you admire and trust them the most who are sometimes the most dangerous. And yes, agreed that robbing Jabba's palace probably isn't the best order to follow."

Kandji smiles at Mittens, and then squints as she turns back to the glare of the sun off the hood of the speeder in front of her.

"Getting pretty hot now," she points out, somewhat unnecessarily, "Times like these you wish you had a closed top speeder with air conditioning."

Angel returns the hug and plays with Mitts' ears and pigtails. "We need to have some anti mindcontrol code. Like a question-answer skit only we know and no mind controller could figure out."

Biggs' comment about the nice ones being the ones you need to watch out for takes Angel by surprise. She thinks highly of Biggs, but didn't expect him to be quite that shrewd, for some reason. She smiles. "...one of the reasons I like you so much, Biggs, is insights like that one."

To Kandji, Angel says, "Air conditioning is great, yes. But there is much to be said about acclimating to one's environment and becoming hardy. Though you could always try to slap a roof on and install an AC unit."

"Mittens ponders Biggs' insinuation, that one has less reason to be cruel when one is competent.  Or that one has more reason to be cruel when one is incompetent.  Yeah.  Makes some sense.  Will have to get Master's take on that one.

"As for the Mandalorians, it's hard to separate fact from legend.  But most sources I've looked into agree that they used to be a warrior race from planet Mandalor.  When they were defeated by the Old Republic, the surviving warrior types dispersed throughout the Galaxy and became a secretive cult that either worships killing for fun, or earning honor by protecting the weak, depending on whom you ask.  Either way, they're drawn to violence like a moth to flame.  Pretty much everyone agrees that to be allowed to be called a Mandalorian, you have to be at least commando level in combat.  Something I find to be very likely.  Because most every killer in the Galaxy would love to brag that they killed a Mandalorian, so those who claim to be one and can't back it up don't last long."

Mits thinks on Angel's idea.  "Let's see.  How's this?  'Sure is hot.'  'Like a tricked-out speeder with AC?'  'Like someone so awesome they don't need AC.'"

Kandji grins at Angel.

"Yeah, an AC unit would definitely be nice. Unfortunately most aren't made to withstand Tatooine conditions, and the heat, sand and dust destroy most of them within a month or two. The ones that can survive the climate here usually cost a small fortune. I think your dad is the only one I know with an air conditioned speeder," she adds to Biggs.

She giggles at Mittens.

"I don't know about 'awesome', but yeah, you do kind of get used to it."

Biggs gives Kandji a slightly bashful smile when she alludes to the affluence of his father, and then gives Angel a humble smile and nod at her compliment. Then he moves onto answering Mittens.

"Well, I'm not saying that competence excludes cruelty by any means. But yes, incompetent officers have to be bullies in order to get as far as they do. Of course, there is a certain amount of cruelty all officers must have in order to enforce the Emperor's orders."

He breaks off as he says this, staring darkly at the sand racing by beside them for a few moments before turning back to the girls.

"That would explain why people seem to hold the name 'Mandalorian' in such high regard, though 'killing for fun' and 'protecting the weak' are at quite opposite ends of the spectrum. Either way, they don't sound like someone you'd ever want to cross. From what I've heard Boba Fett certainly isn't big on protecting the weak..."

Angel chuckles at Mittens idea for a code. "That's a good one for starters, Mittens. We can work on it some more. Maybe make more than one just in case."

Angel ponders. "How does one go about *becoming* a mandalorian, I wonder? You got me curious now, Mitts. I'm gonna have to look into them and see what their deal is for real."

Angel ponders telling Kandji about her own parents' affluence, but decides against it for now. Though she quietly wonders how much Biggs has told her about... well why not ask, "So what all *have* you told Kandji about us, Biggs?"
This message was last edited by the GM at 02:11, Tue 07 July 2020.

Mits ohs at the explanation for why she sees so little in the way of AC on Tatooine.  "Well perhaps the money would be better spent on adding pop-out guns, then.  Or slapping a droid's head on the front.  Oooh!  Add a hyperdrive!  That'd be the best upgrade!  'Yup!  This baby is literally outta this world!'"

She nods sagely to Biggs' clarification.  "Agreed.  Now that said, I guess I should warn you on a certain taboo within my family.  Although Dad has no illusions that the Alliance is perfect, one must never ever suggest to him that the Empire can do any right.  Part of his trauma-induced mental illness.  To point out even the tiniest, or most obvious example of an Imperial doing some good, like, say, 'Biggs, a former cadet in the Imperial Navy, helped save my life once,' will get Dad ranting about how, (a puppet that resembles her Human father appears), 'You'll notice that he did so in spite of being a member of the Empire, not because of it.  Take for example Sergeant Major Callum.  A good man like him can't stand to be in the Empire for long, so he defected...' ...yes, yes, you've told me the story, thank you, Dad.

"Though I'm touchy on the topic of the Empire, Mittens at least will not deny that there is the occasional well-meaning person within the machine.  And not every rude person within the Empire is an absolute monster.  But I've heard far too many tales of 'Kill one civilian every 10 minutes until this city gives up the Rebel that they're harboring,' to believe that a well-meaning person can remain so forever within the Imperial Military before sooner or later you'll have to choose between following an order like that or being killed for refusing."

Mits smiles that Angel approves of her code exchange idea.  "Sadly, Mittens is probably a no-go for becoming a Mando.  Chances are she'd go Darkside if she did, even if with the best of intentions."

A cat puppet appears and explains for Kandji, "Mittens' Master is convinced that should she be exposed to too much violence, she'll become a bonkers badguy.  A side-effect of one of her weird talents."
This message was last edited by the player at 03:13, Tue 07 July 2020.

Kandji listens to the conversation about Mandalorians, but not knowing anything about the race she is content to let the experts discuss the topic.

She does grin at Mittens' suggestions of potential speeder upgrades.

"A droid head would be fun. And a pop out blaster would certainly be useful, though maybe better suited for the adventures that Biggs and you guys are likely to have rather than for everyday use in Anchorhead. A hyperdreive would be great if we also had some shield plating to pass the atmosphere and sublight drives to operate in space. And a closed roof would probably be kind of important. But having a intergalactic travelling speeder does sound kinda fun!"

She glances expectantly at Biggs to let him to the talking about what he has told her.
This message was last edited by the player at 22:42, Mon 13 July 2020.

"I haven't told her that much," Biggs smiles at Angel, "Just that you two are a pair of loyal, kind girls from Coruscant who are very skilled in adventuring. I told her about those slavers who were trying to capture you and how you made short work of them. I did forget to mention your puppet shows!" he adds to Mittens with a laugh.

"As for becoming a Mandalorian, sounds like you'd just need to beat up a few of them, in which case you should get in pretty easily. But I agree with Mittens that they might not be the sort of group you want to join..."

He nods grimly at Mittens' warning about her father's Empire feelings.

"Noted. I am sorry that he's had to suffer so much at the Empire's hands. And I know he's not the only one. I'd like to talk to you in more detail about this topic once we reach my father's estate."

Angel blushes lightly at the "loyal, kind girls" comment. Angel then shrugs at Mittens' comment about going dark side. "Wearing mandalorian armor won't turn you dark side, though. So we'll totally have to try taking some off one of them."

She idly scritches Mittens behind the ear. In a candy-sweet voice tone, she says to Biggs, "You make it sound so easy, Biggs. "Just" beat up a few of them. Heehee.."

"Mittens is stunned and impressed with Kandji seeing her hyperdrive and raising her shield plating and sublight drives!  Most who bother listening to Mittens' ideas dismiss them as silly and simply quit the game.  Kandji is a definite keeper!"

Kitty leans into Angel's adorable affection with a big smile and quiet purrs.  "As I recall, it was us two with the help of the three loyal, kind heroes of Tatooine who are very skilled in manliness: Tank, Enigma, and Grand Krayt Dragon."

Master Puppet pops up for Angel.  "'Wearing Mando armor is an invitation for violence.  Somethingsomething that means you'll go Darkside, Mittens.  Any other student would probably be just fine.' 

"But yeah.  I like Biggs' 'beat up the badguys' thinking.  And am eager to twist his arm to join the Alliance using the encrypted counter-propaganda on her datapad.  Kandji too."

(( OOC: I vote we skip the scene forward to where we arrive at Biggs' place. ))
This message was last edited by the player at 10:48, Tue 14 July 2020.

Biggs grins.

"All in good time, Mitts. All in good time."

The group continue their lively conversation as they race across the hot sand in the direction of the Darklighter Estate. After an hour or so the conversation dies down as the suns reach their highest point in the sky and the throats of the travellers become thoroughly parched.

There is not much in the way of scenery throughout their journey. Dune replaces dune, with the occasional rocky outcropping. It is well into the afternoon by the time the moisture vaporators on the outskirts of Huff's estate begin to come into view on the horizon. More and more appear as they begin to pass through the machines, dotted about the flat, sandy landscape, tended to by the occasional droid.

Within fifteen minutes the homestead appears, a series of domes rising from the sand ahead of them. Luke's battered X-34 landspeeder is already parked outside.

"Home sweet home," Biggs smiles fondly at the home as Kandji pulls up the speeder beside Luke's.

"All right, who's up for a glass of iced water and frozen pika?"

You don't live on the biggest vapor farm around without security.  So it goes without saying that Mr. Darklighter was informed of the approaching speeder as soon as it was visible.

That speeder couldn't come fast enough as far as Luke was concerned.  Every moment spent alone with Mr. Darklighter was a moment too long.  "Show some respect for your elders, boy," "Sounds like Owen knows you better than you know yourself," "You don't know how rough it is for a parent to sacrifice for their own blood, let alone someone else's," "If you were one o' mine, I wouldn't be so gentle as he is.  He tells you to get your head out of the clouds, I'd tell you to get it out of your rear end," and on and on.  From an adult's point of view, Mr. Darklighter was being as friendly to the punk kid that got his son into trouble more often than anyone else ever did as a parent could ever be expected to be.  From a teenager's point of view, an Imperial interrogation would be preferable.

So if it seems strange that Luke is standing in the shade of the front entrance in the Tatooine heat rather than inside where it's cooler, think again.

Luke tries to look cool, leaned against the wall, arms folded.  "Welcome back, Biggs!  Just like you to be cruisin' along with three ladies first thing, Mr. Popular."
This message was last edited by the GM at 18:33, Wed 15 July 2020.

Endure elements would be a nice spell to cast on her friends right about now.  But sadly, that's not in Mittens' arsenal.  So as soon as parched throats becomes a thing, she pampers the others (mostly Angel) with frequent offers of water from her canteen.  If Angel doesn't insist on Mits staying in her own seat, (are seat belts even a thing in Tatooine speeders?) she'll perch herself over her buddy's lap to shade her from the blazing suns.  And while not as vocal, she still manages to keep conversation going by passing around her datapad with written messages on it.  For Biggs and Angel, at least.  To keep Kandji from having to read while driving, she whispers in the girl's ear, being careful to avoid tickling the pilot with her fuzzy face.

Upon arriving she leaps out of her seat like a coiled-up spring that's been tied down in one spot for far too long.

"Wheee!  Frozen pikas!  Thankies!!  Ohai, Enigma!  Just like you to be hard at work trying to sound like a disapproving parent first thing, Mr. Jealous.  Still, it's only right to be jealous of one who gets to enjoy a long ride with Kandji and Angel.  I'm so jealous of myself!"

Mits pretends to strangle herself.  Luke rolls his eyes, but chuckles.
This message was last edited by the player at 19:14, Wed 15 July 2020.

Angel didn't play seatbelt police. She does keep talking to a minimum overall, soon as the parching starts setting in. Not that she's especially talkative anyway.

To Biggs offer, "Oh my GOSH yes." is what Angel is THINKING, but what comes out is a calm "Yes please."

Angel goes to pull Mitts' hands away from her throat. "Hey! No strangling my friend! And you should know strangling someone over mere jealousy will lead to the darkside." she teases.

Angel says, "Hello, Enigma." and walks over to Luke. "How kind of you to wait outside to see us in. Did you miss us?" she gives him an endearing smile.
This message was last edited by the GM at 22:44, Thu 16 July 2020.