Zil

Zil
The Third Grandmaster
The Emperor-Slayer
Biography
Homeworld:	Unknown
Born:	Unknown
Died:	8 AFE, Tython
Description
Species:	Human
Gender:	Male
Family:	Unknown
Affiliations
Faction:	Sith Empire
Master(s):	Unknown
Apprentice(s):	Unknown

Grandmaster Zil, a formidable and controversial figure in Jedi history, played a pivotal role in the tumultuous period following the reforms of Grandmaster Hessy. As the adoptive brother and brother-in-arms of the first Grandmaster Ricky, Zil rose to prominence through his exceptional dueling skills and became renowned as "The Emperor Slayer" for his role in three high-profile duels with Sith Emperors. However, his leadership during the Second Jedi Civil War marked a period of division and upheaval within the Jedi Order.

Early Life and Jedi Training​

Zil's early life is enshrouded in mystery, a common trait among Jedi. His journey into the Jedi Order was characterized by unwavering dedication and remarkable combat prowess. Zil swiftly ascended the ranks, emerging as a Jedi Knight of exceptional skill.

Leadership​

When Grandmaster Hessy unexpectedly stepped down from her position, Zil assumed the mantle of leadership as Grandmaster of the Jedi Order. While he did not fully enforce the sweeping reforms initiated by Hessy, he recognized the importance of some of her initiatives.

The Emperor Slayer​

Zil's reputation as "The Emperor Slayer" was solidified after his personal victories in duels against three separate Sith Emperors: Auditor, Vader, and Stosan. These remarkable feats established him as one of the most formidable duelists in the galaxy.

The Second Jedi Civil War​

One of the most contentious periods of Zil's leadership was the Second Jedi Civil War. When the Sith Emperor Opal sought asylum with the Jedi following his overthrow by his own Sith, Zil extended protection to the former ruler. This decision sparked outrage among some members of the Jedi Council, who viewed it as an affront to the Jedi Code.

Conflict and Ousting​

Opposition to Zil's decision to harbor Opal culminated in a power struggle within the Jedi Order. Barsen'Thor Ako, supported by a strong loyalist faction within the Grand Army of the Republic and the Jedi, initiated a civil war within the Order with the aim of removing Zil from power. High General Korvas staunchly defended the Grandmaster during this internal conflict.

Downfall and Consequences​

A staunch supporter, the former Grandmaster Ricky, joined the conflict on the side of the insurrectionists. Believing that he failed the Jedi Order by allowing the seeds of darkness take root. The climax of the internal conflict came when Ricky, the Grandmaster's adoptive brother and long time brother-in-arms, struck down Grandmaster Zil, bringing the conflict to an end. While the Barsen'Thor acted on his convictions, he recognized that his actions violated the rules of the Jedi Council and the Jedi Code. Consequently, Ako voluntarily stepped down from the Jedi Council and chose to exile himself from the Jedi Order.

The Jedi Council in Turmoil​

In the aftermath of Zil's fall from power and Ako's self-imposed exile, the Jedi Council faced significant challenges in recovering from the devastating Second Jedi Civil War. The leadership vacuum left by these events led to a period of internal strife and uncertainty for the Jedi Order.

Grandmaster Zil's legacy remains deeply polarized, with some acknowledging his unparalleled combat prowess and others critiquing his controversial decisions during his time as Grandmaster. His tenure as a Jedi leader serves as a testament to the complexities and challenges faced by the Jedi Order during a turbulent era.