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Sunday, June 30, 2019

Kixi Message

Smuggler Class Story



Hey!

Didn't take much digging to score your HoloNet ID, and I couldn't leave Coruscant without thanking you again. Not sure what would've happened to me if I'd stayed locked up with the Migrant Merchants' Guild, but I'm guessing "good" wouldn't describe it.

Think I've had enough of Republic space for now. I'm heading home to my family on Ryloth. Working for the Hutts is never easy, but at least they pay well. Good luck, Captain--hope you get your revenge, or whatever.

--Kixi

Thursday, June 27, 2019

Alliance Intelligence Report: Gethul

Gethul: The Genetic Enigma of Lost Rakatan Science and Force Sensitivity

General Lore of Gethul:

The Gethul entity is a profound enigma that continues to intrigue and disturb those who study its origins. Initially discovered by the scientist Adelade on the planet Makeb, this creature defies conventional understanding. Its physical structure appears to be a grotesque fusion of multiple species, suggesting that its creation was deliberate and highly engineered. Genetic markers from dianogas, rathtars, and even the long-extinct Rakata hint at a dark history, possibly tied to the long-lost Rakatan Empire’s experiments with genetic manipulation and dark science.

Doctor Oggurobb, who has spearheaded much of the investigation into the Gethul’s origins, postulates that the creature might have been part of an ancient Rakatan experiment—one that could have been tied to their mastery of the Force and their history of creating biotechnological horrors. The presence of Rakata genetic material is particularly telling, as the Rakatans were known to manipulate living creatures in the pursuit of power and control over the Force. What makes this even more intriguing is the discovery of particulate matter within the creature's digestive system that traces back to Belsavis, the site of the Rakatan containment facility.

It’s hypothesized that the Gethul may have originated on Belsavis—possibly during the Rakatan Empire’s reign—before being moved to Makeb at some point in history. The exact timeline remains unclear, but the possibility that the creature was relocated by the same Rakatans who constructed the infamous containment facilities on Belsavis opens new doors to understanding the mysterious events surrounding both planets. The implications of such a discovery could be staggering, suggesting that the Gethul might be a product of the ancient Rakatans’ pursuit of immortality, or perhaps something far more insidious.

The creature’s ability to influence and connect with Adelade, and perhaps other living beings, suggests that it might be more than just a biological oddity. There are indications that it possesses some degree of Force sensitivity, or at the very least, an advanced form of mental manipulation. This connection to the Force, coupled with the Gethul's apparent influence over its environment, only deepens the mystery surrounding its existence. Why would such an entity possess these capabilities, and what role did it play in the ancient Rakatan Empire's experiments?

Adelade’s discovery of the Gethul is shrouded in even more mystery, as she was led to its location by an anonymous source who provided her with precise coordinates and claimed that she would uncover one of the greatest secrets of the Force beneath Makeb. The identity of this mysterious benefactor remains unknown, but their motives are a source of great concern. If they were an ally of Adelade, why would they remain anonymous? And if they were an enemy, what did they hope to accomplish by luring Adelade—and perhaps others—into the heart of such a dangerous and unstable force? This thread of intrigue, combined with the Gethul’s unsettling nature, suggests that there may be far more to this entity than anyone has yet discovered.












The Jedi Lore Keeper’s Perspective on Gethul:

The Gethul represents a disturbing confluence of ancient power, lost knowledge, and potential corruption. From a Jedi standpoint, the existence of such a being raises more questions than answers, particularly in relation to its apparent connection to the Force. Jedi scholars have long known that the Force can influence living creatures in ways both subtle and overwhelming, but the Gethul appears to possess a level of control over its environment and other beings that borders on unnatural.

The genetic anomalies within the Gethul’s structure are troubling, particularly the traces of Rakatan heritage. The Rakatans were once a powerful and dangerous species, known for their mastery over the Force and their dark, twisted experiments with biotechnology. If the Gethul is indeed a product of these ancient machinations, it could represent one of the last remnants of their forbidden science, a lingering artifact of a civilization that sought to control life itself.

The presence of such a creature could have significant ramifications for the Force-sensitive beings of the galaxy. Its apparent mental influence and the connection it shares with Adelade might suggest that the creature has some degree of mastery over the Force—or at the very least, an ability to manipulate the will of others. This could be a potential source of corruption or imbalance if it were ever to fall into the wrong hands.

What troubles the Jedi most is the mystery surrounding Adelade’s discovery of the Gethul. Who sent her the coordinates? Was it a well-meaning ally who sought to uncover the secrets of the Force, or was it an enemy who wished to push her—or perhaps the galaxy—toward a darker path? The Jedi believe that knowledge and understanding of the Force should be pursued with caution and reverence, not for power or manipulation. The motives behind the discovery of the Gethul may well have been influenced by these darker forces, and the Jedi must tread carefully in investigating its origins and its true purpose.

Ultimately, the Gethul represents a danger that the Jedi cannot ignore. Its origins, its potential connection to the Rakata, and its disturbing abilities over the living Force must all be studied, but with extreme caution. For the Jedi, the quest for knowledge is sacred, but it must never come at the cost of balance. The Gethul is a reminder that some mysteries, though compelling, may hold dangers far beyond what any being can comprehend.












Subject: Gethul Entity
Status: Terminated (full autopsy pending)

Doctor Oggurobb's investigations are ongoing, but initial findings revealed that the Gethul entity contained genetic markers from dozens of species, including dianoga, rathtars, and surprisingly, Rakata. This is particularly interesting as certain particulate matter found deep within the entity's digestive tract is found only on the planet Belsavis, suggesting that the creature originated there and was at some point moved to Makeb, perhaps by the same Rakatans who constructed the Belsavis containment facilities.

The entity's mental connection to Adelade and its sway over other biological creatures suggests some degree of Force sensitivity, further deepening the mystery of its origins and life cycle. Is this creature representative of an undiscovered species, or merely a unique creation of ancient Rakatan scientists? While we search for answers, one troubling mystery remains.

Adelade found the entity based on intel she received from an unidentified third party. This source sent her precise coordinates--and the claim that she would discover one of the Force's greatest mysteries buried beneath Makeb. Who sent her this intel? If it was a friend, why cover their tracks? If an enemy, what did they hope to accomplish by luring Adelade into the heart of madness? We will continue to investigate. (Codex Text - Star Wars the Old Republic / SWTOR)









Wednesday, June 26, 2019

Denova


A recently-discovered planet located in the Ojoster sector, Denova is a world of dense forests and high-peaked mountains. Traces of ancient ruins dot the world’s surface, but details remain undocumented; the Republic forces that scouted the planet instead focused on its extensive deposits of baradium ore, used to create some of the most powerful explosive weapons in the galaxy.

Determined to control this invaluable resource but short on military manpower, the Republic hired a mercenary army to hold Denova and ward off any Imperial attacks on their mining operations. Known as the Warstalkers and led by a Trandoshan veteran named Kephess, these mercenaries were renowned for their skill and reliability–though that reputation didn’t stop them from going rogue, merging with a renegade Imperial army and claiming the entire planet for themselves. (Codex Text - Star Wars the Old Republic)





Tuesday, June 25, 2019

Savrip

The savrips’ bestial appearance leads many to dismiss them as nothing more than monstrous hulking predators that attack on instinct. This is far from the case, as anyone who has gotten close to a savrip can attest. Would a mindless animal really wear a tanned hide and belt made from Gapillian grazers?

Despite their brutish and primitive appearance, savrips are an intelligent species capable of communication. Unfortunately, for the average Ord Mantellian, savrips are actively hostile to other life-forms. Previously content to remain in their home territories, recent surges in savrip attacks have led authorities to speculate on a separatist-savrip alliance, but these claims remain unsubstantiated. (Codex Text - Star Wars the Old Republic)


Blba Tree


The sturdy blba tree flourishes throughout Dantooine's fertile grasslands. They can grow for hundreds of years, and particularly venerable trees have served as wedding sites for generation after generation of family lineages. Dantooinians regard them as apt symbols for the planet's inhabitants: they're hardy, require little to thrive, and are incredibly difficult to move once their roots take. (Codex Text - Star Wars the Old Republic / SWTOR)


Codex Location




Tuesday, June 18, 2019

Salky Hound

Many know the salky hound for its acute senses, unbreakable claws and exceptionally powerful bite; few know this vicious beast was actually designed in a laboratory. The Republic military contracted a bioengineering firm to breed a dangerous but intelligent creature, able to protect remote bases in the Outer Rim without the expense of droids or troops.

Unfortunately, the scientists weren’t able to make their creation obedient. Salky hounds turned out to be ferocious and impossible to train for military action. After several accidental deaths, the Republic military canceled the contract, and salky hounds were banned from the Core Worlds.

However, many breeding pairs were sold quietly on the black market, and the hounds have appeared on dozens of worlds since. Many mercenary and criminal organizations deploy salky hounds when they have no need to capture someone alive. (Codex Text - Star Wars the Old Republic / SWTOR)

Rakghoul

Rakghouls are a living plague–the manifestation of a highly communicable disease capable of swiftly transforming its victims into twisted, degenerate monsters with predatory instincts. The rakghoul virus can infect hundreds of known species and is most often delivered through a rakghoul’s bite; a person attacked by a rakghoul and “lucky” enough to survive typically becomes a rakghoul him- or herself. Some victims resist the virus for days, succumbing to rakghoul instincts while retaining their original bodies. 

Different strains of the virus manifest in different breeds of rakghoul–the smallest and weakest travel in enormous colonies, whereas larger, smarter rakghouls often hunt alone. The virus mutates fastest when infecting new species, and slowest when rakghouls reproduce with other rakghouls. 

Before the planet’s bombardment, Taris contained its substantial rakghoul population in the undercity. Many specialists believe rakghouls are native to Taris, but rare outbreaks elsewhere in the galaxy suggest the truth is more complicated. (Codex Text - Star Wars the Old Republic / SWTOR)

Wednesday, June 12, 2019

Hearts and Minds Messages


I know you can't see me, but imagine me giving you a well-deserved standing ovation, Commander! Your interview on the RNN is exactly what the people of the Republic needed. Seeing such a confident, formidable hero so resolute in the face of conflict will inspire millions. We are fortunate to have someone with your cachet on our side in dark times like these.

If time ever permits, you should come visit; tour our new facilities, speak to the troops! And drink tea, of course. I'm sure you'll be thrilled to learn that I've found a recipe for ryshcate that is the perfect companion to that Gatalentan blend I sent you earlier.

I digress. Keep up the good work, Commander! 



 An update on the situation with that AWOL frigate we discussed: the ship has been returned, though it did sustain superficial damage during initial contact, and we lost three escape pods when the defectors tried to flee. It's incredible how far the Empire gets into their heads--they're always more afraid of their own leadership than they are of their real enemies.

There were no casualties among the defectors or our repossession crew, so I'd call the operation a success. I appreciate your restraint in dealing with that crew. I can understand where they're coming from.


You did the right thing letting me run those extra ships to take on the Exchange. After those lowlifes came up against our laser cannons a few times, they backed off. I'm guessing it's not worth their time to mess with Zakuul if they have to fight their way onto the planet.

Without backup, I bet the rest of the Exchange thugs hanging around will cut and run. Things are still a mess down there, but at least it's our own Zakuulan mess and not some crime syndicate's playpen.

You didn't have to back me up on this, and I know it. I won't forget.

Bounty Contract Messages

Kingpin Coruscant


Otheros thinks running a casino is all about accountants and playing by the rules and holding hands with deadbeats who owe you credits. Seems he's starting to learn just how wrong he is. Finally got the guts to come after me and my business. If he didn't hide behind some hired muscle to do it, I might actually respect the fuzzball.

You know how they say "the house always wins"? I'm the house. Take me on, and it will be the last thing you ever do.

Arkan
Supreme Executive Officer of the Lucky Runner

Tuesday, June 4, 2019

Tokare Garrison


The Garrison is a recent construction and part of Republic efforts to reinforce its hold on Dantooine. The planet now serves as a resupply station for Republic ships, and its position at the edge of Imperial space makes it a prime location to stage assault forces. The military presence on Dantooine has therefore grown rapidly, to the construction of some of the planet's farmers.

This large base of Republic operations was named in honor of Master Vandar Tokare, a member of the Jedi Council who oversaw the enclave of Dantooine. Tokare perished during Darth NIhilus' devastation of the planet Katarr, remains an inspiration to many. (Codex Text - Star Wars the Old Republic / SWTOR)





Dantooine


An agrarian world of rolling hills, vast fields and hardy blba trees, Dantooine is a remote, sparsely inhabited planet. The resilient folk who tend its fields have never minded that most of the galaxy considers their home a backwater-in fact, many prefer it that way. Unfortunately for those citizens, when war erupted anew following the defeat of the Eternal Empire. both sides of the conflict became keenly aware of the sudden strategic importance of this once-ignored world poised on the edge of Imperial territory.(Codex Text - Star Wars the Old Republic / SWTOR)



The Jedi Enclave of Dantooine


Dantooine Agriculture


Dantooine is a pastoral planet populated by resilient farmers. For much their history, Dantooine's inhabitants focused primarily on sustenace, carting what little excess they produced to the planet's mercantile centers on the rare occasion off-world traders arrived.

Staple crops include kibla greens and yot beans, though the Republic has been pushing for the cultivation of faster-cycle non-native species to support increasing supply needs. The planet, once demand beneath notice by both sides of the conflict, now serves as an integral link in the Republic's supply chain. (Codex Text - Star Wars the Old Republic / SWTOR)


Codex Location







Pterathki

It is widely suspected that Makeb’s recent groundquakes leveled a major pterathki nest, since these strangely elegant creatures have been seen flying over Talaos City in increasing numbers. Pterathkis normally hunt small animals, using their unusual tails to attract prey before spearing them with stabs of their powerful beaks.

Although there is little meat on a pterathki, they are known to be particularly delicious to the Hutt palate when basted in Dantooine cane syrup. Since Makeb’s takeover, Hutt Cartel forces have been seen attempting to net pterathkis for their masters’ tables–and earning scars from angry pterathki beaks. (Codex Text - Star Wars the Old Republic / SWTOR)