The Second Golden Age of the Sith [Pregame Roleplay]

[Rydax]

__________________________________________________ _______________

New characters may begin roleplaying here. Assume that you are all at the Academy with nothing but free time as you wait for your first assignment.

I have mapped out the first three floors of the Academy, which you can see below. I will add more as I finish them.

First Floor
http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e153/Rydax/AcademyF1.png

Basement 1
http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e153/Rydax/AcademyB1.png

Basement 2
http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e153/Rydax/AcademyB2.png

Basement 3
http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e153/Rydax/AcademyB3.png

Basement 4
http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e153/Rydax/AcademyB4.png

[EvilWalks]

Beskreiga Ordo

The young woman lay in her bed, her wild hair sprayed behind her on the pillow as she worked diligently on a Datapad.

Dressed in only a tank top and boxer shorts, the black and red tatoos both Sith and Mandalorian in orgin, almost seemed to dance all over her body, entwining like the bodies of two hounds in the throes of combat...each trying desperately to rip the other's throat out.

It was fitting...this woman was Beskreiga of Clan Ordo...a Mandalorian warrior who now adopted the teachings of the Sith...

She was average enough height for a mandalorian girl...yet physically, she had more in common with a tank then anything biological. Her body was lined with muscles that where thick enough to give her the stanima and strength of a wookie, yet the reflexes and grace of a twi'lek dancer.

She had a mind to match too...a calculating biological machine that even when in the bloodlust of battle, amongst the thrilling sensations of combat and the cold rage that proppeled her through her enemies, still was at work formulating every detail, every strategy, every peice of knowledge she possesed, into a series of battle plans that where brutally efficient.

She was Sith....

Yet the as the vizor shaped tatoos on her face and the pair of combat gloves that she never took off atested too, she was also still a true Mandalorian warrior...she lived for conflict...for the glory of battle...the honour of war whether the victor or the loser.

So, her in her bed, after another sleepless night, she lays...a testement to her tattoos...a living embodiment of a conflict of philosphies and identities of two worlds...one of honour and glory, the other of power and cruelty. One of might and military functions, the other of mentality and so-called magics.

Her gloved hands move over the datapad once more, adjusting the design that lay on the small terminal.

It was the proverbial ace in her sleeve...a weapon of mandalorian ingenuity and sith efficency.

She had started with the schematics for an Underslung rotary blaster, and increased it's power supply and changed around it's handles. Along the ventral side of the blaster, she had attached an old Czerka flamerifle, and juryrigged the trigger into the Blaster's trigger handle. It would be a brutal weapon if she ever had someone build it.

Though she was strong, swift, tough, and a star pupil of sorts in the Academy, Beskreiga suffered from one potentionally fatal flaw...she had started her training late at the Academy...she was new enough, that she had not the specialized training in the force and in lightsaber combat as the other students...whether by her own paranioa, or perhaps some actual insight into the mindsight of the students, she knew herself to be an outsider...an outsider who was quickly climbing the ranks of the student body...and then meant a threat that someone would chose to deal with soon.

This, was her answer to that...and perhaps to those who had to deal with Jedi and Sith alike, yet where outclassed in skill with a saber...

The heavy blaster could be used at a difference and fire powerful shots at rapid rates...perhaps too much for a jedi trained in the art of deflecting and lightsaber defenes could block. Should that fail, and the jedi close to mid or close range, then the flamecaster would be used for brutal effect...after all, she had never heard of a Jedi reflecting a stream of flames.

The design had problems though, of course...it would probaby overheat easilly between the magcoils of the Rotary blaster head, and the ammo for the flamecaster. The recoil was a bit much, and the design was heavier then the average trooper could carry.

And of course, once she finalized the design, the process of getting it approved by a manufacturer among the Academy folk would be even harder...an ambitious technician or teacher might claim the design as their own...to which Beskreiga had two identical solutions to each problem...the knuckles of a pair of phrik lined combat gloves. There was Credits...and the fact that often ideas like this where not welcome...especially if it was made incorporating technology that was almost over two centuries old.

She sighs and tossess the padd across her room to a work terminal desk and leans back into her pillow for a moment, clearing her mind with a few meditative breaths to help focus it. Insecurities and paranioas for another time perhaps...

She needed to get her head cleared...away from the problems that should be left to technicians and profressional researchers, and not some force sensitive warrior.

Slowly, Beskreiga gets up and picks up a sash from the floor. Brushing her hair back with her gloved finger tips, she wraps the sash around her head, and pulls it tight into a bandana to keep her long messy bangs from out of her face. She gets up from her desk, and stretches her lean muscular physique, before going over to her bed and picking up the neatly folded black robes and steel amour plates. Her mandalorian armour and weapons, with the exception of her gloves, had been confiscated by the Sith when she first arrived here...but she had gotten her hands on a pressurized Flight Jumpsuit, durasteel armor plates, and combined it with her Sith robes to make a new set of armour that reflected her mandalorian heiritage, while still being Sith in style.

She is wearing the black and gray jumpsuit already, as well as the boots and gloves, so she put on the underlayer plates, then the Sith robes, and finally the outerlayer plates and the survival systems of the flightsuit, which where melded together with an efficent artistry that any Mandalorian or Sith would be proud of. Her standardized Sith Pistol and hip holster are strapped on next, and finally, she turns to the desk and picks up her Blaster Carbine.

Double checking it twice, and finding it in perfect order, she collaspes the stock and places it in the other, larger hip holster at her waist.

Her lightsaber, which she had yet to master, is already maglocked to her belt.

All set, she makes her way to the common room, where hopefully, the change of scenery would help her regain clarity.

((Dibs on Dark Green...again!))

[Raven T.]

Drupada Taipo

It had been another long day for the Zabrak. He was older than most students here and the fact he was slower to get up after a fight showed it. Combat wasn't what he wanted out of life, but it was a way of the Sith and he had to perfect it or he would be destroyed. Burning in his arms from Murray's relentless barrage of strikes, both from blocking and failing to block, told him it was time to recuperate. His resolve was stronger than ever...he would beat that heap of slag.

He took his usual place within the archives, snagging some holovid on combat techniques, ancient history, and the origins of the Lightsaber. Much could be learned from the practice arena, but much could also be learned from the battles of the past. The Sith kept their archives fairly well stocked; enough to answer an apprentice's questions, but none of the great mysteries of the ages.

Watching the videos, he began to reflect on his early days here. Before he came to the academy, he had been nothing but a guy who thought he was a hotshot pilot. The crucible of the last several months had begun to forge him into what a Sith should be. He never showed fear or remorse for his actions. The Force flowed easily through him, leading him to unlock hidden reserves of power early in his training, but that doesn't account for much against a droid you can only use saber skills against. A pity; he wondered what the repercussions of defeating him in such a way would be.

"I may never understand how that droid can adapt so quickly to changes in combat style..."

[Rydax]

As Beskreiga walked the halls, she could hear the rythmic "clank-clank" of metal on metal, louder and closer. Two points of azure light shone from the eyes of the Blademaster, Murray. They scanned the halls for his target until he came upon the young woman. "Beskreiga Ordo. You're with me, Apprentice. Bring your lightsaber." His white cape whipped up a slight breeze as his clawed feet turned to take him back to the turbolift. From underneath the glint of a long blade painfully flashed her eyes. It was something the instructor was never known to carry before.

[EvilWalks]

Beskreiga Ordo

The Mandalorian Girl had barely sat down, when the droid instructor summoned her. Her Mandalorian thirst for combat barely halted her sigh of annoyance...yet, it was combat training nevertheless, and when it came to lightsabers, much needed in Beskreiga's case. As a mandalorian, she was used to the weight and displacement of that weight along the long haft of a Mythosaur Axe, or a Vibroblade...or Mandalorian Ripper guns. Lightsabers where unique, in that all the weight was in the hilt, as the Energy blade it produced had of course, no weight. It meant relearning how to fight with a weapon, all over again...

...however, Beskreiga didn't accept the Sith training because it would be easy...she accepted it because it would a challenge. A warrior's challenge.

Straighten her back, she walked to Murry and nodded. "Affirmative."

[EvilWalks]

((Opps. Forgot these...)


Perception and Knowledge (Technology) to recognize type/significance of sword.
Perception [roll0]
Knowledge (Technology) [roll1]

[Raven T.]

Drupada Taipo

The sound of the returning turbolift caught his ears and he put the holovid down. Very few people were up this early; he chose to get his training out of the way before many other students stirred just so they didn't have a chance to laugh at the old man. Killing them for minor insults...well, the masters didn't appreciate that very much. It wasn't worth it, anyway. Those unfit for Sith life were disposed of in short order.

Murray had found a new victim: Beskreiga. The young Mandalorian had impressed him time and time again with her tenacity and head for tactics. Her strikes with a saber were clumsy, but that is to be expected when one is trained with heavier weaponry. The lightsaber is a weapon to be finessed, weaving it in and out of your opponent's guard to strike home. This didn't mean he thought any less of her; oh, no. Her raw muscle and force of will, even without a great connection to the Force, made her a worthy opponent and a potentially powerful ally.

Cleaning his stuff up, he silently slipped over to the training grounds to watch. Perhaps he could see a way to beat the unbeatable.

[Rydax]

Murray led Beskreiga up to the next floor, and around to the Lightsaber Training area. When he got to about the middle of the room, he stopped, still facing away from her.

"I have been trying to figure out why my training does not reach you, Ordo. The more the other students learn, the farther behind you fall. But now I believe I know the reason for that. Your focus is elsewhere. You do not fight like a Sith and I do not expect you ever will. Strike at me now with your lightsaber," he said.

[EvilWalks]

Beskreiga Ordo

The Mandalorian shifted her rusty-haired head from side to said, producing audible cracks from her neck joints as she loosened herself up. "I don't fight like a sith, eh? I did not know your language programming was capable of compliments." She responded, bottling her insecurities behind a battle bravado.

She reached for her lightsaber, and ignited it, as she fell into a stance...her stances where perfect...as was most of her movements...it was strike and blocknig that gave her problems.

Leaping forward into action, she swung.


Attack: [roll0]
*deleted damage, because I made a typo...and it doesn't matter anyways*

[Rydax]

As Beskreiga's strike fell, Murray spun around, drawing the polished blade and easilly deflecting her attack. Her swing had been even more clumsy than he expected, and his block sent her to the floor. He waited for her to pick herself up and displayed the weapon in his hand. It was a long, silvery blade, ornately decorated, and it had just stopped a lightsaber in its path.

"As I said, I do not believe you will ever fight like a Sith. Like a true warrior, you prefer to feel the weight of the weapon in your hand, so that it may become an extension of your own body. To fight with instinct and passion. The lightsaber denies you this spacial awareness."

"You may not tell anyone else that I said this," he warned. "Lightsabers are a crutch to a true warrior. Weak weapons of the Jedi. Before the Sith encountered them and adapted the technology, they used this." Murray now extended his sword to Beskreiga, offering her the chance to wield it.

"This is one of many Sith Swords uncovered by Lord Tavorrik in his search for our history. If you like, I can teach you to use it. I think you might find it more fitting to your style. And don't worry about losing any edge on your competition here. It will perform just as well as any lightsaber. Perhaps even better than most."

[EvilWalks]

Beskreiga Ordo

Beskreiga took the sword in her hand and studied it for a moment, allowing her get used once more, to the weight of the weapon. It was comforting to have something heavy, yet balanced, in her hand once more. "Your secret is safe with me, Murray. Quite impressive...like the swords I used to use in the battle circle of my Clanship." She holstered the lightsaber and nodded to the droid. "I accept your teachings."

[Rydax]

You can sense from his tone that Murray would have grinned mischeiviously if he could. "Excellent," he said. "Then perhaps Apprentice Taipo over there would like to assist in your lessons with a sparring match?"

[Raven T.]

Drupada Taipo

An ancient Sith sword. This is a great honor for her...and one for me to even SEE such a beautiful tool. The blade was flawless, even after all these years. They had been adapted even after the creation of a viable combat lightsaber to allow the Sith who preferred the feeling of a "real" blade cutting through the flesh of their foes.

"It would be an honor to face both you and that exquisite blade. Though I am still sore from our earlier match, Murray, I will give her a fight to remember." Gripping his saber, he pulled it from his belt and snapped it to the side, the violet blade lighting the dim corner he stood in. Many asked why he did not carry the traditional crimson blade of the Sith. His response was always the same: A Sith is marked by the skill in which he wields the blade, not in the color that it produces.

He pointed his lightsaber at her, both his arm and blade perfectly straight and level with the ground. "Come then, young one. Let's see what you can do." Finally, Drupada dropped to his usual stance, loose, fluid, and ready for her attack.

[EvilWalks]

Beskreiga Ordo

The Mandalorian went through a few more practice swings and movements, getting herself more and more used to the perfect weight and balance of the sword. "I'm a young one, Iridonian?" She said as she finished her pratice and fell into an offensive stance, reminscent of her Mandalorian spar training. "Remember that age is relative...Old Man."

With a twist of her hip, she launched herself into a basic attack movement, swinging wide and hard with both hands on the Sith Sword's hilt


Attack: [roll0]
Damage: [roll1]

[Raven T.]

Drupada Taipo

Stepping back and to the right, away from the cut, Drupada follows through, cutting downward one-handed toward her shoulder. "Close, but not quite."

Attack: [roll0]
Damage: [roll1]

[EvilWalks]

Beskreiga Ordo

As the saber came down, Beskreiga's left hand came up...and blocked the blade of purple light with her plated gloved hand. No cutting of steel and flesh, no burning smell of the lightsaber cutting through organic matter...it was stopped. Deflected.

Beskreiga didn't waste any time. She cashed in on the surprise, and twisted into the blow, bring her blade across in a close horizontal slash to the waist.


Attack: [roll0]
Damage: [roll1]

[Raven T.]

Drupada Taipo

Wincing at the pain as the blade cuts into his gut, he backpedals several steps. It was a good hit, but it wasn't enough to bring him down. Sneering some, he kicks out and forward, coming at her with a diagonal slash upwards across her torso.

Good hit.
Attack: [roll0]
Damage: [roll1]

[EvilWalks]

Beskreiga Ordo

The blur of purple, though fast and hard, did not come close to hitting the Mandalorian...but she tried to hide that fact by spinning as the blow went past her, as if it had connected and sent her sprawling...but she twisted out of the spin and brought her sword across in another two handed swing..once more, taking advantage of suprise and built up momentum.


Feint: [roll0]
Attack: [roll1]
Damage: [roll2]

One good thing about SAGA, is that feinting is simplified. Deception vs. Initiative.

[Raven T.]

Drupada Taipo
Rolls done before action is posted.
Initiative: [roll0]
Attack: [roll1]
Damage: [roll2]
Now am I considered Flatfooted for the next attack or just this one? *doesn't feint enough to remember*

Though her attack caught him by surprise with the slick move, her concentration had been broken and her attack went wide to his right, leaving an opening that he intended to exploit. His blade twisted some as he drove it home in a careful thrust.

[EvilWalks]

Beskreiga Ordo

The blow caught Beskreiga in the torso, and burned through parts of the robe. However, the durasteel plates caught most of the blow and slowed it...but didn't absorb all of the force of the swing's momentum which forced her back on to the ground, hard.

Despite the pain, burns, and bruising, Beskreiga went with the blow and leaped upwards out of it, with both hands drawing the blade into a long upwards strike.



I thought it was the same round, but I checked the SAGA book, and apparently they changed it to the Round After...doesn't make much sense...but I can roll with it I think..

Attack: [roll0]
Damage: [roll1]

[Raven T.]

Drupada Taipo

The blade struck true, crossing the mark left by her first hit and leaving a nasty gash from his hip to the base of his neck. It is a miracle that it wasn't fatal; a few cm deeper and it might have punctured a lung or two.

As he stumbles backwards, blood beginning to gush out of the nasty wound, he kneels and deactivates his saber. "So youth has won the day. Bravo, Beskreiga, your combat style is most formidable." He chuckled some as he tried to stand again. "Wield well that sword; you have earned it."

Another thing: it says Feint is a Standard Action, so it makes sense to me, thought I don't understand why there's no way to get something like Improved Feint...

[Rydax]

"Not bad for your first try, Apprentice Ordo," Murray evaluated. "Apprentice Taipo, you may head down to Medical if you wish to get your wounds healed. Thank you for your assistance, and also well done on your defense."

He then turned his attention back to Beskreiga. "You seemed much more comfortable with this weapon. Your combat style serves you well. With training, you will become a fierce and feared warrior. Practice your stances and techniques with it. We will have a lesson later."

"Wear that weapon well, Beskreiga, and it will serve you. It craves the same glory. The blood of your enemies. If you ever allow it to rust, I will hunt you down and kill you myself. I trust we understand eachother now, Apprentice."

[EvilWalks]

Beskreiga Ordo

Beskreiga stooped down to pick up a piece of sliced cloth that had been part of Taipo's robe, and begin to clean the blood off the blade.

"Do not worry yourself with that sitution. If my weapons became substandard through my action or inaction, I save you the trouble and kill myself...a mandalorian who cares not for her equipment, is no mandalorian at all. I thank you for the training, and the blade. It will be used with honour, glory, and pride." She bowed to the droid and sheathed the once again gleaming blade in her belt sash. "I believe we have reached an understanding...you are like a Basilisk Wardroid...more then just a bucket of bolts and circuitry."

Beskreiga went on her own for a while, sticking the edges of the training room, and putting herself through a rigorous exercise of movements, until finally she decided to retire back to the common area. She needed some breakfast, meditation, and time to repair her armor and robes...

And to deal with that pain in her back and the burns from the hit she took. They where starting to annoy her.

[Raven T.]

Drupada Taipo

Nodding to the droid, hiding everything until he was out of sight, he headed for Medical slowly. A saber wound was a burn, cauterizing the wound as it cuts and leaving it clean. The Sith sword, however, did no such thing. A trail of blood followed him (and he hoped something would be along soon to clean it up...) as he walked, but he showed no sign of pain or frustration at his failure. He also hid the fact that he was utterly surprised that Murray had given him a compliment. Yes, his skill with a blade was lacking and he knew it. A more robust and less careful opponent would have cleaved him in two...

But this had been a training fight and his powers were limited. A good Grip or Slam would have sent her packing in a hurry. However, this was saber combat and use of the Force in such a manner was frowned upon. At least he was getting better than he had been...observing enough training accidents and a bit of practice helped to teach him which end of the saber was up.

[Kaymeera]

Vykan Zendra

"Still picking up after the younglings, Murray; for a second there, that thick drone you call a voice sounded almost ... fatherly."

A soft thump was clearly audible then a single person stepped out from the shadows in the corner of the room. A single man, obviously older than many of the pupils in the Academy, emerged. He wore nothing for a shirt and instead was treading with nothing but a thin pair of loose black trousers, coupled with heavy black boots. Pale blue skin covered a particularly muscular body, darkening around the eyes, which were covered with a thin set of strapless goggles, reminiscent of those used by technicians during welding work.

Distinct, black, Sith tattoo strips covered his entire torso, extending from (where one can only assume) the bottom of his legs to all around and over his bald head and across his arms to his hands, patterned in distinct black waves. A lightsaber swung loosely from his belt, longer than the average lightsaber, and not remotely unique enough to be personally built.

When he spoke, his voice was deep, but quiet and his speech was slow. Though he clearly carried a mocking tone, it was openly sarcastic. He obviously had considerable respect for the Blademaster.

“I was simply practicing my sequences while I waited for you and decided to exercise some old habits. You gave me too much warning, with you clanking around everywhere, but I couldn’t help but hear the pitter patter of soft youngling steps following you around.”

He shook his head.

“But that’s not fair, is it? The man was quite older than I am. Quite skilled with a blade too. I could feel the hunger in his swings, he wanted blood, and he'll be back to get it.”

He smiled.

“But the girl, the Man-de-lo-rian(He lengthened the word, savoring it slowly), she bested him. Carried herself quite heavily, she did, must have been all that padding on her robes. She will learn our ways, sooner than later, I think. Her blood boils with competition as well. She will make a fine Sith.”

He finally stepped forwards and approached the dueling ring.

“Well then. I am ready for my lesson. What are your terms?”

[Rydax]

Murray watched the two of them go and then turned to face the Umbaran. The lights from his eyes dimmed, in his unique form of a glare. "Neither are very skilled with their weapons. Her victory was mostly luck. But she was considerably more confident with something in her hands that she could feel. They will both learn and become skilled swordfighters. It is my duty to make sure of that. As for whether or not they make good Sith, that is up to them and their masters."

"So you think you're ready. What do you think you are ready to do...youngling?" A brilliant, red beam then appeared in his hand, extending from the lightsaber he now held. "The terms are simple. You show me what you can do and I'll tell you why it's wrong."

The droid held the blade in front of him, in a defensive position, as he waited for an attack.

[Kaymeera]

Vykan Zendra

"Defend yourself!"

The Umbaran's lightsabre leaps to his hand and he lunges forwards, already cutting a wide path with both ignited blades.

[roll0]
[roll1]
[roll2]

I won't bother rolling damage.

[Rydax]

Murray simply shakes his head in disappointment as both attacks go wide of him. "Have you even been awake during my lessons?"

With a quick snap of his wrist, Murray thrust out his own lightsaber. A slight touch was all it took to burn Vykan's hand, causing him to drop his weapon.

"Again!"

[Kaymeera]

Vykan Zendra

Zendra stands back, nursing his hand for a moment, his face had turned grim.
"Wide swing forwards, overhead swing backwards, One-sixty degree turn, anti-clockwise, lunge, wait for the pressure to drop."

"Pain teach me, Force guide me."

The Umbaran extends his arm, and the lightsabre willingly rises into the air towards him from underneath the droid. He catches it in mid-air as he lunges forwards once more.

[roll0]
[roll1]

EDIT: Rolls aren't showing up proper, never preview a post with rolls. Rolls in next post. Sorry for double post.

[Kaymeera]

[roll0]
[roll1]

[Rydax]

Murray nodded as his lightsaber stopped both attacks. "Good," he said. "Your form is improving, but you would do better if you concentrated on landing the attack rather than making any fancy moves. You should attack with only one end of your lightsaber until you master that, and then you can work on fighting with both."

[Kaymeera]

Vykan Zendra

Zendra steps back, keeping his blade lit.

"I agree. However, in special circumstances, it is often wiser to overwhelm your opponents. Nevertheless, I am practicing my technique daily, in time, I will master it."

OOC: Not to point out that it wouldn't have mattered either way, I'd still need to roll natural 20s :P

[Rydax]

"Hm. Indeed. Well see to it, then. Serve your new master well, and all that bantha fodder." With that, Murray began clanking off, back toward the turbolift.

[LongVin]

Renato Benso (http://www.myth-weavers.com/sheets/view.php?id=34528)

Renato strolled through the shelves of the Academy's Archives datapad and blank datacards in hand. He spent most of his time in this area of the Academy searching out new books, treatises and anything else he can get his hands on which he hasn't read yet. It didn't matter what the subject was as long as he hasn't come across it yet or if it offered a different view point from what he previously had read.

Between here and the Alchemy lab he could get lost for hours, he always had to remind himself not to neglect his martial training but it was a difficult task when their was so much unknown knowledge waiting to be found.

[Fredricus]

Raiko

Raiko stood in trance in the shadows in his room. He was hidden in the corner next to to the door. Raiko was resting but still ever vigilant, his master had taught him well. There was no safe place, the attack could come anytime when you lesat expect it.

He "awoke" from his trance, with small gesture with his hand he lit the lights in his room. Raiko stretched his limbs and back before removing the dummy from his bed. It was a blessing that his people wasn't that keen on strangers and travelling. He didn't need a bed to sleep in, he slept standing.

Checking his gear, the bandolier and utilitybelt allready strapped on as was the various weapons on his person. Clad in only loose black trousers and good shoes in addition to his equipment he went out of his room.

He didn't like the dormitories, they spoil the students with luxury and they recieve food when hungry. Most would survive on their own stranded somewhere.

Finally he entered the training hall and looked around for a sparring partner.

[Kaymeera]

"I don't know... but he was well trained in the Jedi arts." -Qui-gon Jinn

OOC: As a personal endeavor, I've decided to start my posts with Star Wars quotes. They may be insightful, or they could also be completely random. In any case, I hope you stay tuned!

Vykan Zendra

The Umbaran chucked.

"Good, old Murray."

He watched as the droid left the room, and as the new occupant(Raiko) entered.

"What do we have here? Four arms, two legs and maybe, just maybe, a worthy combatant?"

Zendra slowly started walking a wide circle around Raiko, lightsabre stll ignited, slowly examining him.

"I haven't sparred with you before, and I sincerely hope you are here for a duel. You see, I've taken it upon myself to be the best duelist of our tier and defeating you might just earn me a bit more standing in this oh-so-competitive establishment. I never deny a good fight, so don't disappoint me."

The Umbaran continued to circle the dueling ring, smiling mockingly at Raiko.

[Fredricus]

Raiko

Raiko eyes the the challengers and grins revealing sharpened teeth.

"Oh, one of the academys spoiled kids..." he amused as he drew his hidden lightsaber.

He circled with the challenger. Raiko moved with predatory grace, his features combined with the sharpened teeth looked more canine than human that he first looked like.

He lit the lightsaber and held it with two hands while gesturing with lower ones to attack.

[roll0]

[Kaymeera]

"Sith have no fear, and I sense much fear in you." -Count Dooku

Vykan Zendra

Zendra's face turned grim and he did not retort. He finally raised the blade, extinguishing the lower end while simultaneously lunging forwards.

[roll0]
[roll1]
[roll2]

44/44, Ref = 16, Fort = 16

I find it more convenient to list these stats here, that way you can better RP your misses/hits, and subsequently, you can rewrite your post accordingly. I picked up Raiko's stats from his character sheet: (38/38 Ref = 17, Fort = 15)

Also, for the sake of continuity, I recommend the more "critical"ly-hurt person withdraw, at your discretion, if not the DM's.

EDIT: Heh, what do we do in the case of same initiative?!

EDIT2: Apparently, in the case of an initiative tie, the person with the higher modifier(Raiko) goes first. So hold my post till then.

[Fredricus]

Raiko

Raiko leaped at his opponent, his crimson saber high above his head. His powerfull slash barely misses his opponent.

In the next moment the opponents saber burns his flesh. Pain, sweet pain coursed through his body. He welcomed it, embraced it. He smiled at his oppoent.

Attack[roll0]
Damage[roll1]
Actions: Charge

Refl: 15
Fort: 15

HP: 38

[Kaymeera]

"There is no light, no dark… just you and I, here now." -Darth Maul

Vykan Zendra

Zendra ducked and turned sideways as his opponent dashed passed him, escaping injury by inches.

He retaliated with a wide swing to the side, which struck true and hard, leaving a debilitating gash in Raiko's torso.

Zendra stepped back, still silent, his gaze menacing, ready to parry the next blow. His face remains grim as his opponents smiles at him.

"You smile at your defeat, at your dishonor? Or perhaps you smile at the crows on the horizon. Defend yourself, or scurry away."

He proceeded to slowly circle Raiko.

For the record, Round 1 is over.

Raiko charged and missed, Zendra strikes back, dealing 16 damage(1 point above Raiko's damage threshold) and consequently reducing him one step down the condition track.

Raiko still has initiative. Round 2 begins.

[Raven T.]

Drupada Taipo

Drupada hated the smell of the med bay. It either smelled too sterile or the stench of death clung to it. Either way, it was extremely unpleasant, but the sword had cut him up pretty good and he could not...WOULD not call on the Force to heal him. The healer's arts were for those who practiced faux pacifism, even if they often fought with the same passion as a Sith. Light...Dark...it didn't matter in the end. The Force is all that matters. The only difference between a Jedi and a Sith is their heart. Neither side believes that there is neutrality; only the 'good' and 'bad' sides.

If droids could show emotion, Drupada guessed that they would be frustrated and upset that ANOTHER Apprentice had gotten himself torn up beyond what he could handle. Without reprisal, though, they began the processes of cleaning the wound, pulling the fibers cut from his deep brown robes out, checking for any infection, and prepping him for several boring hours in the bacta. It was dull, but necessary. At least they could provide him with some instruction while he floated. A few combat holovids, as well as some galactic history were plugged into a special reader and projected where he could see them.

I've never been the best at swordplay; if you can debilitate your opponent with the Force, why bother hacking him to pieces? However, it makes sense that, should your power fail, that you have a backup. The lightsaber is an elegant weapon, easily finessed and quickly has become an extension of my own arm. It is within myself that the fault lies...and I will expunge it or die trying. Even the greatest Sith started out this way, but it is a long road ahead of me. I must persevere.

[Fredricus]

Raiko

Raiko watched Vykan circle him. The wound didn't seem to bother him at all.

He continued to smile and lashed out with saber. It grazed Vykan but still burned painfully.

2 swift: shake it off
1 standard: Attack[roll0]
Damage[roll1]

HP: 22/38 Ref: 17 Fort: 15

[Kaymeera]

"You underestimate my power!" -Anakin Skywalker

Vykan Zendra

Just as Raiko's attacked managed to slip past Vykan's defensive swing, the second end of the lightsabre blade was lit.

Performing a backwards turn with the blade, the attack was parried perfectly, and immediately countered, however going astray.

Zendra broke off once more, and continued to circle.

"You don't have a chance of beating me. You will leave here defeated and broken..."

[roll0] vs. DC 16
[roll1]
[roll2]

44/44

[Fredricus]

Raiko

Raiko growls as his attack was blocked. He hadn't mastered the saber yet as it was only a tool.

Again he slashed with his crimson saber, trying to find a gap through the defences

Attack:[roll0]
Damage:[roll1]

HP: 22/38 Ref: 17 Fort: 15

[Kaymeera]

"There is no doubt, (that) the mysterious warrior was a Sith." -Mace Windu

Vykan Zendra

As the opponent hastily struck another aggressive blow, the Force whispered to Zendra, his lightsabre answered and the blow was parried. Pressing the attack, he grabbed his opponent's arm and struck forwards with the lightsabre.

"Wait for the pressure to drop."

He felt his opponent go limp. He deactivated the blade and heaved him off his back and onto the center of the dueling ring. He approached the nearby door panel and pushed a button, which started blinking red immediately. A droid would soon to be dispatched from the medical center.

Though he had been victorious, he was disgusted at his own victory. There was no honor in the win, no prestige to be earned. His opponent was vastly outmaneuvered and relatively unskilled. Though Zendra had realized this well into the fight, there was never room to retreat. Nor would he take it. Each spar and duel was a gamble and to retreat, costly.

Once more, he had proven himself a well-oiled machine of death, a fact a forever-bruised ego can never accept. He spared a few more minutes waiting for the four-armed alien(the species was mysterious to him) to rouse or for the droid to arrive. It was due for him to spend some time elsewhere.

[roll0]
[roll1]
[roll2]

[Fredricus]

Raiko

Yet again his attack was blocked but this time Zendra couner attacked succesfully. The blade cut deep and soon he fell limp passed out.

To embrace and control the pain was other than welcoming it, he had slipped yet again. An hour without struggle for survival was dulling him, seeking to feel the thrill of survival, pain and combat. He hated the pampered students but this one seemed to have something.

Surprisingly quickly Raiko stood up and shrugged the effects of his wounds almost immidiatly. He hid away his saber and approached Zendra with his predatory grace, he was battered but not hindered of his wounds.

"You have a good understanding of your tool."

"A fool fights on equal standing, maybe we will meet again at a more favourable conditions" he said

[Kaymeera]

"You're no match for him, he's a Sith Lord." -Emperor Palpatine.

Vykan Zendra

The corner of the Umbaran's mouth twitched somewhat at Raiko's words, as though resisting a temptation.

"Report to the medical ward, your injuries are grieve. I've already dispatched a medical droid to help you if you need it."

And without another word, Zendra left the duelling chamber. He had no interest to challenge the four-armed duelist again, neither now nor later. Perhaps in time, he can re-earn his respect in the Umbaran's eyes and be deemed worthy once more.

For now, Zendra was tired and felt particularly strained, both physically and in the Force. He had been training for almost the entire morning and that final duel had scavenged what remained of his energy. The day's pursuits would have to be elsewhere.

The Mandalorian girl, who seemed to have become a particular interest of the Umbaran's, must have headed towards the common room.

[LongVin]

OOC: Bah. I guess nothing is happening in the library. Damn you all for being non studiers.


Renato Benso

IC: Finding a particulary interesting document on the principles of Sith Alchemy, Renato transfers the document to his datapad and makes one more pass through the archives before departing.

From the dueling pit he can hear the sounds of his fellow students trying to kill each other and his hand drops down to his own saber resting at his hip. He debates with himself whether or not to join them. Quickly, he decides against it not for lack of skill but for lack of desire. The overly agressive Sith would always be availible to challenge...but this fascinating essay on alchemy had to be put to use now.

Reaching the lab, he places the datapad on the work table, opening the file he gathers the materials needed for the art.

OOC: Is there any skill associated with Sith Alchemy?

[Fredricus]

Raiko

Raiko walked to the medical ward, ignoring the medical droid that came for him.

Down at the medical ward he notices that he isn't the first patient this morning. The stank of burned flesh that followed him gave the medical ward a more "comfortable" feel, otherwise it too unnatural, too clean.

Raiko laid down on the operating table, he has never got used to laying down, it made him vulnerable. The medical ward was too familiar to him, he allways tested how far he or his opponent could go. It usually ended with either one passing out or his opponent backing out. Some of the students doubted his sanity.

The droids started working on him, they knew well by now that Raiko didn't want anything to ease his pain, this was his lesson and it helped him feel alive.

In the bacta tank he entered his trance and watched the holovids of the Sith history, his master had been very brief in that part of the teachings.

[Raven T.]

Drupada Taipo

The Zabrak blinked several times as the four-armed student walked into medical. It wasn't uncommon for students to be filtering in and out all day long; such was the nature of the Sith teachings. Pain is a powerful instructional tool, but it can only go so far. His idol, Darth Revan, understood this. History says that, 4200 years ago, he was redeemed and saved the Republic from his apprentice, Malak. However, he believed otherwise. Had Revan thrown off the mantle of Sith Lord...or had he always been true to himself? When a man fights for what he believes in, often times the line between light and dark blur. Sometimes, an act of great evil is required to preserve the greater good. The opposite is also true; deposing a vicious tyrant is often seen as a "good" act, but if it is done to seize power and resolidify what had been destroyed through the previous administration, then it is done to further one's own agenda.

Drupada smirked some. What would the masters think of him? He had never heard of a truly philosophical Sith before. Most were content to the theory of "If it is against me, bash it with a saber or choke the life out of it." It should prove to be interesting, to say the least.

That didn't make him any less deadly. Just because one considers all options before proceeding doesn't mean one isn't willing to crack some skulls to get the job done; not by a long shot.

Drupada spoke up toward Raiko when he saw what the man was looking at. "One can learn much from the success...and failure...of the past. Let no man stop your pursuit of knowledge, for those who would keep you ignorant would keep you weak."

[Rafe]

Gaimon

Gaimon awakes as he does every morning: with a wince, one hand rushing to his mouth. Feeling the hard metal of his cybernetic breather and vocalizer, he gasps, a sound emitted through the device as a metallic hiss.

A subtle movement in the shadows triggers his senses. In an instant, his lightsaber is in his hand, activated. A golden blast flashes in the darkness. With reflexes both bred and brutally conditioned, he deflects the shot into the wall and spins off his bedslab. His crimson 'saber hums sharply and sparks errupt as the man connects with the hovering sentinel drone.

The light panels on the wall flicker to, and the door swishes open. A blue-skinned Twi'lek female enters casually and leans against the doorframe.

Through the long tendrils of his grimy hair, Gaimon says, "Yet another test? -ksssk-"

"Life is a test, Gaimon."

The youth, clothed only in undergarments, regards the halves of the droid and nudges them with his bare foot. Scars of all sorts are spattered across his pallid flesh. His body was long, wiry... yet emaciated, causing what muscle he has to stand in sharp, fibrous relief against his skin.

With a tsssst, he deactivates his lightsaber and, still holding it, wraps himself in his faded robes of dun and black.

The Twi'lek holds out a plate. "Food?" she asks with a wicked grin. Seeing his brown eyes go dull, she shrugs, putting it down near his bedslab and adds, "Very well. When will you give up that mask?"

"-kssk- When it is taken from me," Gaimon states coldly.

Shooting the youth another sidelong glance, the Twi'lek slips outside. The door whispers closed.

Gaimon's eyes remain fixed dispassionately on the door, sensing the plate to be a distraction, Brel T'hann's exit a ruse. After a few moments, he clips his 'saber to his belt and takes the plate. With one hand, he presses small buttons on his mask and with a slight krink it comes free from his lower face. The sight it reveals would make a mother scream and weep. His eyes on the door, Gaimon fingers morsels of food into the right side of the opening in his face, using what small portion of his mandible remains to chew.

Finishing, he reseals his mask, adjusts its regulator at his neck, and strides through the door. His movements are smooth and fluid, his skill with his 'saber a matter of agility than brute force. Flicking his unkempt hair from the arc of his gaze, he sets off for the turbolift that will take him to the Force Training chamber, his robes whispering in conversation with the metallic rasp from his breather.


((dibs on DarkSlateGrey))

[Kaymeera]

"Is it possible to learn this power?"
"Not from a Jedi" - Anakin Skywalker and Darth Sidious on Darth Plagueis' power.

Vykan Zendra

Zendra spots the woman seated in the common room. Though her movements appear uneasy, she seemed to be delicately repairing a sidearm of sorts. A rapid-fire carbine, if memory served.

Taking a seat across from her, he eyed her for a moment, before speaking first.

"I was...observing your duel earlier. It was actually quite impressive, despite being, obviously(he nods towards the gun) quite out of your element. Where did you learn to fight like that?

[EvilWalks]

Beskreiga Ordo

The young woman looked briefly up from her routine maitenance to the umbaran sith...and then she put her head back down to her work and continued on. "It was a combination of fighting styles. Mixes of Teras Kasi, Sith movements, Trashdonian Fencing, but mostly, Mandalorian Balttle Ring techniques. Best to be versatile I say....after all, we can't always be in our element. Even if we are masters of using each sitution to our advantage, there are always...how do the Correllian Pirates say it...'bigger fish in the pond?'"

Her blaster repair was going smoothly. Technical things like this came naturally to the young Mandalorian..whether it was repairing blasters, modifying hyperdrive coils, constructing gernades, or translating Droidspeak, it was all like a sixth sense to her.

"I suspect you are here for other reasons then to compliment me on my training success while at the same time enforcing the fact that I am as you said, 'quite out of my element'...and don't give me any of the doublespeak and twisted words the instructors have been training us in...there are much safer ways to practice that, then to attempt it on a Mandalorian who's doing maitenance. That's not a threat, that's a warning."

She closed the first panel on her blaster, and grabbed her cup of Caf which she begin to drink between crossing the circuits beneth the next panel.

[Kaymeera]

"I'm out of it for a little while and everybody gets delusions of grandeur." -Han Solo

Vykan Zendra

The Umbaran smiled at the woman's retort and laughed quietly, appearing finally relieved, as though the worst is over.

""Never tell me the odds!", I believe, was something else those Correlian pirates said", he replied, "And I'm fairly certain the "fish in a pond" saying had something or other to do with failed courting rituals."

He watches her tinker with the blaster for a moment, before moving on.

"Teräs Käsi was it? Interesting. I was trained in some first tier Echani rituals myself, quite some time ago. It was brief; something to use in conditions of last resort. My true talents lie elsewhere, I'm afraid."

[LongVin]

Renato Benso

He went through some of the minor rituals and formulas presented in the treatise. Desperately wanting to move on to the truly powerful concotations that the ancients used to bring terror to the galaxy he held back. A true sith needed patienced to survive, the order of Darth Bane waited over a thousand years to act and they had proved succesful until the progeny of Lord Vader who turned aganst their Sith roots managed to defeat the Empire. Patience and caution were the true virtue of the Sith. Many would deny both, but they are fools. A Sith must always be cautious, he must look at every action possible and see the repercusions, not in the way a Jedi tries to perceive the falsehood known as the "greater good," no a Sith must make sure that whatever he does is in his best interests and his actions today will not do him harm tomorrow.

After cleaning up the workstation, Renato makes his way to the common area for the students at the Academy. He notices two of his fellow students conversing at one of the tables...perhaps there would be some useful tidbit to take away from their conversation. Getting a cool beverage from the mess, he positions himself at a nearby table not too close to arouse suspicioun but not too far to be unable to hear anything. Place his datapad on the table, he opens it back up to the downloaded treatise pretending to read it.

[Rafe]

Gaimon

Seeing no one else in the Force Training chamber, Gaimon enters and sinks down to his knees in the centre of the room. For minutes, he slips into a trance, centering himself and becoming full attuned to his surroundings.

Force Trance:

When he opens his eyes, he gestures at one of the training aids. Feeling the Force flowing through him, he summons it to move into his open hand.

Move Light Object: [roll1]

Gaimon's brown eyes gleam in satisfaction. For several more moments, he waits, eying a target at the far side of the chamber. Opening his hand, the pale man closes his eyes for a few seconds.

The man opens his eyes, glaring at the target. With a burst of the Force, he sends the training sphere soaring towards it.

Move Light Object (projectile): [roll]1d20+10

Woops... my edit screwed up this roll: 1d20+10=17 (http://invisiblecastle.com/find.py?id=1439434)

Damage to target: 1d6=5 (http://invisiblecastle.com/find.py?id=1439441)

Gaimon rises to his feet, a metallic crackle sounding from his cybernetic subvocalizer. Laughter, one might imagine, or a stuttering cough.

[Fredricus]

Raiko

Raiko broke his trance and looked at the Zabrak in the tank nearby.

"Survival is the key. Learning from your own and others mistakes is crucial in survival. To know ones weakness is also an important factor. Remember don't accept it, defy it, fight it."

He watches one of the historical conflicts.

"It's good to learn from others mistakes"

[EvilWalks]

Beskreiga Ordo

The Mandalorian finished her carbine and holstered at her side. Picking up her Caf mug again she slowly sipped it as the Umbaran talked. When he was finished, she put her now-empty Caf mug down, and slowly stood up. "You remind me of a Togruta I knew once...she didn't know when to keep her lips still and her words direct, either. Watch your back and remember...we Mandalorians don't make threats. Only promises and warnings."

She left to relocate...The Umbaran had ignored her warning about not being direct with his speech, and he would pay for it as her code demanded...but it didn't have to happen immediatly. Starting a brawl in the commons would only incite the Instructors...and she could do without their authoritative meddling.

Gazing around the Commons, she found a mostly open spot...there was a young man sitting there with a pad. Scholarly type it looked like. Well, he not have been a warrior, but perhaps she could get a more direct conversation out of him.

Filling up her mug of Caf first, she went over to the table and addressed him. "I won't have to end up killing anyone if I take this seat, will I?"

[Kaymeera]

"Easy, Chewie" -Han Solo

Vykan Zendra

The Umbaran blinked twice as the woman got up and left. Though his intent was merely some innocent banter and perhaps some mutual insight into the pair's respective combat styles, he had, once again, talked himself into another fight.

"Pity. It wasn't my intent to distress you, but I look forward to your challenge nevertheless."

Though his last words,a half-hearted attempt to mend his hurt pride, fell on seemingly empty ears, the Umbaran continued to mumble to himself; something about losing his charm. Perhaps, if only there was some to begin with.

Sitting back, cross-armed, he watched the Mandalorian refill her drink and take a seat at the nearby table. He had noticed the other recruit take a seat nearby - not a combatant - he'd have seen him before if he were a combatant, and surely beaten him.

A strange feeling fell on the Umbaran's heart, nicely intertwined with an odd desire to slice the recruit's face off. As it were...odd.

In a huff, he got up, donned his robes and cloak and strolled out of the room, using the far exit, heading for the turbolifts. He had hoped to invite the Mandalorian woman to tour the Tomb on the lower levels with him. Apparently his first visit would have to be alone.

[LongVin]

Renato Benso

Hmm...Appearently there was some hostility between the two, interesting, that may become useful in the future...

He noticed her approach but kept his eyes to the pad, she obviously wanted someone to talk to and Renato was happy to oblige, knowledge is power.

His head stayed down till she spoke, shooting up from his seat he extends his hand in an inviting matter a smile on his face. "Of course not. Please, sit."

Renato smooths down his clothes, black pants and black shirt reminiscient of the New Order fleet uniforms. "Renato Benso, at your service." He introduces himself in the formal yet polite way he was taught as a child.

[Kaymeera]

"No more loose wire jokes...he's trying." -Anakin Skywalker

Vykan Zendra

As intended and implied, Zendra stood in the turbolift, waiting for it to begin it's motion downwards. He continued to wait, pushing the appropriate buttons, a progressively irritated grimace drawing itself upon his face.

[Nowhere Girl]

Salina Jax (http://www.myth-weavers.com/sheets/view.php?id=35504)


Salina walked slowly into the commons area, taking in her surroundings without ever once shifting her eyes. There was Renato, of whom she knew a little, given his attraction to the archives -- although given his choice of reading, she was uncertain whether his desire for knowledge had more to do with the Force or simply knowledge for its own sake.

With him, too, was that muscular, aggressive woman who was said to be of Mandalorian origin. Of that one, she knew very little, but she could guess the type easily enough.

Without looking their way, she retrieved for herself a small meal, only finally turning her eyes toward them as she approached the table.

"May I sit here?" she asked in a soft, almost toneless voice, eyes locked firmly on Renato.

[Raven T.]

Drupada Taipo

Drupada nodded some. It seemed he'd find no conversation with the other man, but he put it out of his mind and waited some more. The bacta was working fast; whether he knew it or not, the Force was healing him as well. Shortly after the little exchange, the droids dinged and he popped out of the tank.

Cleaned, pressed, and feeling back up to snuff, he followed his ears toward the common room, a stack of sandwiches and a high energy beverage in his hands. Noticing the others, he picked a comfortable seat and ate slowly. "And I am Drupada Taipo, for those of you who don't know me. I spent most of my life flying freighters, though my real passion are starfighters." He looked around the room carefully. Beskreiga he already knew was an excellent ally to have, but the others were new to him. Hopefully, he could find out their strengths...and weaknesses before too long. On land, he wasn't much of a field commander yet, but get him in space and he is in his element.

Drupada shivered some. He hated the cold more than anything in the galaxy. Rising, he moved closer to a heater and reveled in it's warmth.

[EvilWalks]

Beskreiga Ordo

Beskreiga, still dressed in her hybrid sith robes and durasteel armor, sat down at the table and nodded to Renato. His politeness, was useless, but at least he was to the point and kept it brief. She had barely finished her first sip of her mug of Caf, when she heard the voices of the other two. She raised a red rusty eyebrow at Taipo's introduction replying first to him. "You're blunt, rather open, and you give away too much information early on..." Then she offered a wicked grin. "Just like your fighting style. Come on, sit down. I won't deny someone who at least tried today. You too, Miss Sith."

She was getting in a better mood...perhaps her second cup of Caf was already working in it's caffinated magics...or Taipo's return from the med lab, reminded her of her victory earlier that day.

Taking a moment to readjust her headband which kept back her thick rust-red bangs,the Mandalorian turned to the other apprentices and introduced herself. "I'm Beskreiga Ordo. We all know Taipo now...what about you two?"

As she asks, she takes out her carbine and kit again, and removes the power cell. Her base electrical needed maitence was done, but there where parts like the extendable stock that needed to be clean and repaired.

[Rafe]

Gaimon

The pale, lean man, after his exercises in the Force Training Chamber, takes the turbolift down. He exits the lift, his gait sure and measured, and strides towards the central common room. There he sees four others, faces familiar but not well-known to the pallid man. There are times I wish I had spent more time getting to know my fellow students, he thinks.

He sees three gathering around another already sitting, datapad in hand. Gaimon eyed the three, considering moving through the room into another. His earlier experience with Brel T'hann and his solitude in the Force Training Chamber, however, left him with a desire for camaraderie and kinship. One hand moving unconsciously to his cybernetic implant, he strode towards them.

He approaches. His voice sounds distant, filtered through a plasteel subvocalizer: "May I join you? I've seen you -kssk- about, but I don't know your names. I'm Gaimon."

(description)
Gaimon is a tall man unconcerned with his overall appearance: his long hair is uncombed, the colour of dark dish water, and his black and umber robes are worn. Dead brown eyes peer from a pale face and scars cover most of his wiry, wan body. He is an unforgettable figure due to his cybernetic subvocalizer mask. He requires the device to speak, and it gives his voice a harsh, metallic quality.

[Nowhere Girl]

Salina Jax (http://www.myth-weavers.com/sheets/view.php?id=35504)


Jade eyes shift to the one who calls himself Drupada, then slowly back to the Mandalorian woman, whose name turns out to be Beskreiga. After a long pause, she sits quietly, speaking just one word: "Salina."

No sooner does that word pass her lips than yet another person approaches the increasingly popular table, revealing himself to be Gaimon. The sight of the bizarre, disheveled man causes Salina's eyes to widen slightly, only for the briefest of moments before her expression returns to its usual impassive mask.

"I'm Salina," she says again for his benefit, then takes a sip from her glass of water.

[LongVin]

Renato Benso

"Greetings. I am Renato Benso" he nods his head politely to each newcomer sizing them up and trying to discern their particular aptitudes and focuses. The warriors were easy to pick out, you always knew what they wanted to do, it was the thinkers one had to worry about, their plans and plots are legion.

Tapping a few keys on the datapad he closes the document before placing the pad back in it's belt pouch. Taking a sip from his drink his gaze drifts to everyone at the table. Waiting for someone else to strike up a conversation, taking the lead could make a person very dead very fast, best to let things run their course and give subtle nudges.

[Caewil]

Csaba Obscura (http://www.myth-weavers.com/sheets/view.php?id=35503)

Csaba Obscura slowly strides out of her room, heavy boots clicking on the floor with every step. She pauses at every intersection, turning her head back and forth.

The entire Sith academy disorients her - it is like nowhere she has ever been. It wasn't the architechture or the air. It was something else entirely. As a Miraluka she could see through the force, and what she sees unsettles her. The very walls give off an aura of malice and darkness. She was no stranger to war and suffering. She was attuned to it and had gotten used to death. But the Sith Academy somehow seems more menacing than any battlefield she has ever been on. With rigid discipline she continues walking, ignoring her growing discomfort. She would have to get used to it, that was all.

She continues walking and sees something shining brightly ahead. She follows the light, heading toward the common area. As she nears it, she can make out individuals, glowing in the force. She snorts quietly. They are obviously taking no care to conceal themselves, and she wonders why. She reaches out to them through the force, then stops herself. Instead she confidently strides into the room, stopping short of the table.

"Ah. Is there a party I wasn't invited to? I wouldn't want to intrude..."

She pauses for a second, then she lifts her hood, revealing her white eyes. She looks around the table.

"And you are presumably my fellow students. We haven't been formally introduced yet, but you may call me Csaba."

She watches the others for their reactions, attempting to size them up. She wonders which ones will make suitable servants once she eventually takes the title of Dark Lady.

[Nowhere Girl]

Salina Jax (http://www.myth-weavers.com/sheets/view.php?id=35504)


The corners of Salina's mouth tug upward into a small, wry smile. She acknowledges the newcomer with a glance, then shifts her eyes away again, offering no reply as none was expressly solicited.

"What everyone is wondering, but no one wants to openly address," she instead remarks evenly, without preamble, "is what the future of our academy's leadership will be."

She then takes another sip from her glass of water, as though she'd said nothing of note.

[Caewil]

Csaba Obscura

Csaba stands silently for a moment, listening as the slender human nonchalantly baits the others with her statement. She smiles at apprentice's audacity, recognizing her as Salina Jax. Remmon Kaid had said she was a force prodigy, potentially one of the most powerful Sith around. So, she was trying to elicit a reaction? Well, two could play at that game.

"I do not know." She lowers her hood over her head as she speaks. "Come, let us hear your view."

[Nowhere Girl]

Salina Jax (http://www.myth-weavers.com/sheets/view.php?id=35504)


"My view?" she echoes, staring thoughtfully into her half-full glass. "It's impossible to know," she says after a long moment, then almost immediately amends, "or, at least, beyond my skill."

She puts the glass down and looks up at the miraluka. "Too much is unknown. Who bears the greatest ambition?" Again that small smile. "Whom does most of the academy support?"

Almost as an afterthought, she adds, "And where did Lord Tavorrik go ... and why?"

[Rafe]

Gaimon

Gaimon nods to Salina, Csaba and Renato, his flat brown eyes taking them in, his mask obscuring any expression he might have, though there is a brightening in his eyes when he observes Salina's reaction. Yes, he thinks. Thanks to that Jedi trainee wench I will always create such a look wherever I go. In time, these shall know not to feel pity or sympathy...

The lean man shrugs noncommittally at Salina's comments, and says, his voice at times sounding like a droid's, "It makes little difference. -kssk- Survival is paramount. The Sith are and have always been strong because they move with the changes in the wind, not against them. We must do likewise." His eyes harden, his veiny hands becoming fists. A softer, metallic humming follows: "Unlike the blinded and arrogant -kssk- Jedi pawns."

Gaimon reaches up to his neck, arching his neck slightly to the side. Prodding carefully with his fingers, he readjusts the vocalizer. For a few moments the veins in his neck and temples strain against his pallid skin. The man looks at Renato. His voice now is less droid-like but holds that metallic edge. "Have you read Darth Krayt's treatment on subterfuge, Renato?"

[Raven T.]

Drupada Taipo

Drupada smirks some at Beskreiga's comment about his openness. Yes, he had mentioned that he had been a freighter pilot, but that was it. It is also true that he leaves almost everything at the door when he fights. There's subterfuge...and then there's just toying with your enemy for no good reason. One thing that Sith practices had taught him was that people deserve a quick, honorable death with minimal suffering. Another curious view for a Sith, but dead is dead.

"I never said I was the best fighter in the academy." He smiles again in a friendly manner. "And letting you know I'm a pilot is giving away too much information? There is no strength in ignorance." His tone was good natured, showing that he lets her comments slide off his back. Finishing one of the sandwiches and taking another drink, he listens to the others.

"The future of the academy? There are two variables involved in that question. First, the question of how painless the transition of power will be. Unfortunately, Sith infighting gets out of control without a powerful leader and that could lead to the destruction of the academy and the loss of a great deal of knowledge that has been recompiled. Secondly, we must consider the direction a new Sith Lord would take us in. Our survival depends on that direction; a fool will send us to death on futile missions to destroy the rebuilding Jedi or secure some world without sufficient backup.

"My personal opinion I will keep to myself. In the end, we are still just Apprentices and speculation amongst ourselves serves only to draw battle lines between people who could gain more by standing together than standing divided."

Drupada began eating another sandwich slowly. There was a time for talking and a time for listening. This was the latter.

[TheGreatJabu]

Antos Mereck

*Tink. Tink. Tink.* Antos ignored the sound of the toes of his boots tapping against the hard floor beneath him. Caring about it won't make it go away, he thought to himself. There aren't exactly an abundance of places a human of his height can do chin-ups without his feet touching the floor, anyway. He continued to haul his broad, muscular frame up and down for an eternity of 45 seconds. As his arms began to tire, the sound began slower and slower. The sweat seemed to be trickling all the way down the olive-tone skin of his body. As his grip on the bar began to weaken and he began to gradually slip, he lashed out angrily at himself.

You're pathetic. Can't hang on to the bar. Just like you couldn't hang on to your family. The thought sent a cold jolt of adrenaline through his veins. Just like you couldn't hang on Ceilia. His teeth clamped together like a vice as he felt his blood pressure rise. You are not letting go, weakling. Not again. With nothing left but raw emotion, the sergeant drags himself up into the air one last time. Once he lifted his square jaw over the bar, his hands gave out and he crashed onto the floor, knees-first.

He kneeled there for only a few moments to breath before he stood up and grabbed his towel. He dabbed the perspiration off of his face and completely ignored the pathetic trickle of blood coming from his right knee. Need to shower, then report in. It's about time to get to work. As he peels off his wet tanktop and lobs it into its bin, he speaks his daily mantra to the bar as he walks out of his room towards the showers. "One day I'll tear you off that damned wall."

After a frigid shower, a change of clothes, and a few moments to re-equip his gear, Sergeant Antos Mereck steadily marched into the common area wearing his midnight blue protective suit, his black bandolier draped from right shoulder to his left waist, a blaster pistol dangling from his side, and a rifle hanging from his back by a strap. He couldn't help but spot the collection of humanoids growing in the room. Robes. Sith apprentices. From his past experience serving in the Sith military, he couldn't help but to sardonically add: Can't wait to see which one will 'play commander' towards me first. Antos had fought for the Sith long enough to know that he's considered 2nd-class to these Dark Jedi. He grabbed a heaping tray of food and sat down at a table a respectable distance away from them. His "status" to them didn't matter to him much - it wasn't his job to be popular. If they were competent leaders, he had no problem serving them with his life. If they were fools, he'd just have to count the days until their poor choices cost them their lives. He'd gotten his troopers through their share of poor officers already. Survival was the closest thing he had to a talent.

However, it seemed that someone had new plans for the lowly sergeant. He was transferred from his combat unit to this Dark Jedi academy for some reason or another. It wasn't his place to ask. All that mattered is that he was here, and soon there would be work to do. He gave a short nod towards the assembled Sith, and left it at that. He began to neatly and quietly eat his dinner.

[LongVin]

Renato Benso

"I have not had the pleasure of reading that particular article. There is too much to read and too little time between training sessions.", came the reply Gaimon's question.

[Fredricus]

Raiko

Seeing the talkative Zabrak leave he resumed his trance. His wounds healed fast and in no time he was out of the tank. He had learned more today, strengths of a student and some Sith history.

He quickly dressed and made sure all his weapons where hidden and walked to the turbo-lift. The Academy was both dulling and awakening. His understanding of the "Force" as they call it, has grown as his master predicted. Master had said it would help in survival and staying on a higher food-chain. Having witnessed his master in action, he had no doubt how powerfull the force could be. On the other hand, the safe enviroment and basic needs satisfied dulled him. He found a cure, Hoth's surface. It was a comfortable enviroment to test himself.

The four armed humanoid stepped out of the turbolift and walked into the common-room. He grabbed some food and sat down close to the students discussing some matter.

[Nowhere Girl]

Salina Jax (http://www.myth-weavers.com/sheets/view.php?id=35504)


"Then," Salina puts in softly, looking up from her as-yet-untouched meal to fix Drupada with an eerily unwavering stare, "you believe there is power in solidarity."

[Raven T.]

Drupada Taipo

"I believe that the strength of one is eclipsed by the strength of many. Any group stands to gain more by working together than by working separately. A lone being could take over the galaxy, but without supporters, he will find his empire crumbles long before he realizes what is going on." Drupada had always been pragmatic in his approach to life. This was no different.

[Rafe]

Gaimon

Gaimon eyes Raiko entering and sitting near, but nods in agreement with Drupada. "The Sith nearly allowed themselves to be destroyed in the Last Battle of Ruusan because they fought both -ksst- an enemy within and the Jedi. The Sith survived the millennia following only through pragmatic subtlety."

Gaimon again tilts his head and adjusts something at this neck, the tiny blinking tell-tales on the subvocalizer shifting hue. "Arrogance and over-confidence are not virtues in the Sith. -ksssst- Pragmatism and the power to self-determine are... as is the ability to recognize allies when they present themselves."

[TheGreatJabu]

Antos Mereck

Apart from the occasional sound of his fork lightly scraping against the tray, Antos continues to feed in silence. He soon found himself listening in on the conversation of the acolytes. He focused on looking down at his tray as he ate, but he couldn't resist the desire to occasionally glance over at the group. If I've been transferred here, I bet I'll eventually have to work with some of this lot. Won't hurt to hear what I'm in for.

Each time one of the Sith finished speaking, he'd give a casual glance up to learn a face for each voice. The humanoid with four arms certainly caught his attention. The woman with what looked like solid white eyes held his attention for more than her share of time, as well. She looked human, but those eyes... Hmm. Only this 'Force' of theirs could make a blind person a competent fighter. The other alien was one of those spiky-headed types, probably one of those Iridonians. Then there seemed to be a human woman with a surprisingly strong build, and another woman who seemed to be a complete contrast with her delicate frame and icy-cool bearing. Add in the three human males, the one with long hair, another looking somewhat waifish, and the last looking pretty poorly between his unkempt appearance, scars, and what looked to be a mechanical breather on his face. That was the bunch. His examinations led him to a surprised thought. Some of these acolytes look so...young. Trained killers at that age. No one should have to live such a dark life so early on. For a moment, he had a twinge of emotion in the pit of his stomach; in years past it would have sprouted into feelings of sympathy, but that was a long time ago. It only took one more bite to dismiss the sensation entirely.

Antos finished his own little internal monologue just in time to catch the last few exchanges between Four-Arms and Respirator. Thus far he's content with what he hears. Good. Those two are realistic, at least. The Force may let them do incredible things, but the Sith sure as hell aren't gods. A few I've met didn't realize that until it was too late. He felt a small grin creep across his face. I warned you, 'commander'.

[LongVin]

Renato Benso


"But, arrogance and overconfidence are often the trappings of the Sith and our Jedi enemy. The mysteries of the force grants us abilities beyond those of anyone normal, and it becomes all too easy to feel as like a god. Normally, this is not a bad thing, as eventually the overconfidence will lead to their demise and the truly strong will prosper. But, one's overconfidence can lead to the destruction of the order and we must make sure that no one's foolishness can lead to our collective end."

[Rafe]

Gaimon

The lank man nods once again in agreement, then shrugs and gazes off, peering between strings of unkempt dark hair. "That is the razor's edge that all must walk. For those attuned to the Force, this edge is but sharper. As you say -kssk- Renato, the strong will out; overconfidence breeds its own weaknesses."

Looking back to the group, his eyes sharpen with amusement. "Also, we must contend with the constant trickery of our masters and instructors. No doubt these tests are meant to focus us, forcing us to be mindful. While it is tempting, we must not allow our -ksssssk- superiors to force wedges between us when we must be of a single mind to accomplish our tasks."

[Raven T.]

Drupada Taipo

There's more to this razor than you realize. There's also the edge between the dogmatic, faux pacifism of the Jedi and the ultimately destructive practices of the Sith. "Renato, your words are more true than you realize. Our instructors, be they Jedi or Sith, teach us that we are special because we can feel the Force far more than the average Joe walking down the streets of Corellia. From our indoctrination, we are led to believe...no, to RELY on the Force for our survival. By relying on it, we become too self-reliant and more likely to become overly arrogant. We also forget that there are trillions of beings in the galaxy who make their way through the day without using it, breeding even more contempt. In the end, nothing is achieved and the galaxy as a whole is weakened through foolish machinations.

"But it is one thing to talk about these things. It is a wholly other thing to put it into practice. Only time will tell if we can, and will, take these lessons to heart."

[Fredricus]

Raiko

The four armed tan skinned humanoid rose up and came closer to those debating

"The zabrak has some truth in his words. The Force is an edge we have in survival. To over rely on something makes you dull and weak. Say if you rely on getting a warm meal served to you every day and then someday there is no food delivered. What to do?"

"There are things you take for granted. What happens if something is taken away?"

[Rafe]

Gaimon

The man fixes the two with his amber-brown gaze. His chuckle sounds like scraping metal: "Adapt."

[Raven T.]

Drupada Taipo

Drupada nodded to Gaimon. "Just so. It is the rule of the galaxy: adapt or die. I think that is what is happening to the Sith now. The old ways are failing. It is not enough for one person to want the destruction of the Jedi and control of the galaxy. It is not enough for two, three, four, five, or even a hundred people to say that. No, it will take millions, if not, billions of people working together without worrying about personal ambition or about the others plotting against them. Such things make us weaker.

"And, quite frankly, isn't it better to control a smaller portion of the galaxy than none at all?" He leaned back some and tore into another sandwich, half expecting the Mandalorian to make another comment about his openness. Subterfuge has it's place, but not when rallying others or fostering trust.

[TheGreatJabu]

Drupada Taipo

"Our instructors, be they Jedi or Sith, teach us that we are special because we can feel the Force far more than the average Joe walking down the streets of Corellia."

At the table across the room, the sounds of eating stop and Antos's head quickly jerks up to look up at the Iridonian speaker. He stares at the man for a moment, his eyes flashing with alarm. How the hell does he... After a second he calms himself with light clearing of the throat. It was just a random example. He doesn't know you. Finish your dinner, and leave this lot to their musings.

The slow but rhythmic sound of his fork continues as Mereck begins to clean the last scraps off of his tray.

[LongVin]

Renato Benso

Reaching his glasss he bumps it nearly tipping it over. Grabbing it and steadying it in the nick of time before any of its contents can spill, he takes a sip. "Establishing control over a small portion of the Galaxy is a start and through proper expansion can lead to control of the entire galaxy. But it also makes our presence known and presents our enemy with a target to focus their forces against."

[Nowhere Girl]

Salina Jax (http://www.myth-weavers.com/sheets/view.php?id=35504)


"Then you would certainly contend," Salina concludes, addressing no one in particular, instead studying her glass of water, as though the liquid hides some important secret, "that Darth Bane was a fool."

She lets her words hang heavily in the air without further exposition, content to allow the others to do the majority of the talking. For the first time since sitting at the table, she takes a bite from her salad.

[Raven T.]

Drupada Taipo

Drupada made no physical sign that he was going to respond to Salina's comment about Bane. In the end, Bane did what he felt was right and that preserved the core of Sith teachings for a thousand years without interference from Jedi meddling.

"I did not mean controlling a portion of the galaxy as a short term goal. I mentioned it in reference to the end product; if we were, as a group, to bring about a new Sith Empire, I would be more than content with retaining control of only a sector of the galaxy. As I said, for me, ruling a fistful of planets is preferable to ruling nothing at all." Of course, the planets that he wanted...Onderon, Yavin, Dantooine, and Korriban, to name a few...were all sacred sites and repositories of Sith knowledge. What he could uncover there would strengthen the Sith...and, most importantly, himself...far more than a galactic throne ever could.

[Rafe]

Gaimon

Gaimon sits, looking at the food with narrowed eyes. His thin, pale fingers drum on the table near a plate. He pulls his attention away from it - a difficulty when he can hear a trooper nearby eating, and Drupada and Renato both doing so. He looks at Salina.

"Control... it is a strange thing. -ksssk- A million may not be able to hold a single system, yet Darth Sidious controlled nearly this entire galaxy. Patience may be the key. Or guile. Strength of mind has shown itself to be of greater use to the Sith than strength in numbers."

Gaimon blinks when Renato mentions known presence. "I assure -kssssssk- you: we are known. The Sith are not hidden. Their bases of power are hidden, but we are not. The Jedi know of us, but their reputation is nothing of its former glory before their Dark Time." The pale man gazes through the table, his mind walking other paths. "Ossus is a fragile place, its environment meant to foster a sense of serenity. The -ksssk- Jedi focus their abilities in the wrong areas. They attempt so valiantly to not be us but we have no such worries. If a Jedi apprentice is found wanting, they spend time on the weakling. If they do not, the padawan flees in anger or resentment... perhaps causing problems for them down the road..."

Realizing how much he has said, his eyes refocus and he looks to the others nearby. Crossing his arms, he becomes quiet. My mind dwells too much on the past today, he thinks to himself. A wiser man would know better when to speak... and when to think.

[Raven T.]

Gaimon

"Control... it is a strange thing. -ksssk- A million may not be able to hold a single system, yet Darth Sidious controlled nearly this entire galaxy. Patience may be the key. Or guile. Strength of mind has shown itself to be of greater use to the Sith than strength in numbers."

Drupada Taipo

"Sidious also had billions of Clones, millions of Venator class ships, and thousands of supporters in the Senate before he achieved galactic control. Both guile and manpower is required for any plan of galactic domination to succeed.

"Besides, Sidious wasn't perfect. His fall is evidence enough of that. He underestimated the resilience of the Jedi and the equilibrium that the Force maintains. How much effort did he put into finding those most influential who escaped the Purge? Did he track Yoda to the ends of the galaxy? Did he send Vader out to exact vengeance on his former master...and the man who destroyed Vader's life?" This had been the first time Drupada had displayed any sense of inner fire and passion that would mark him a candidate for Sith training. Often times, he suppressed it so that it wouldn't cloud his judgment and cause him to act irrationally, but he could never resist a good debate.

[Rafe]

Gaimon

The pallid man watches Drupada cooly. "Yes, but -kssk- all those elements were extensions of his will. His lie had power over the minds of those who mattered. That lie, his will, gave rise to the Empire. Not military might. Also, they were tools and well used... for the most part. As you say, he fell and -kssk- it was not a quiet fall.

"You have proven my earlier comment about arrogance. It was Lord Sidious' undoing, perhaps. He -kssssssk- did not, as you have said, hunt down the last of the Jedi. Vader and the Emperor's Hands did not root out all agents of the old Republic." Gaimon leans forward meaningfully, his hands on the table. "Yet, was that through arrogance and delusion of impregnable power... or the will of the Force?" Gaimon shrugs, the tension leaving him. "Or is there such a thing?"

The lean man settles back in his chair and waves his own statements away dismissively. "This is academic. Words -kssk- can have power but actions yield results, my master says."

[Raven T.]

Drupada Taipo

Drupada had cooled some now that the conversation had moved in a slightly different direction. "While I do not place any doubt in the idea of the will of the Force, it is too convenient an excuse. Where does personal responsibility come into play? The Force moves as it may, but it is up to us, both those who consciously wield it and those who do not, to forge our own destinies. For good or ill, I believe it comes down to our choices.

"Yes, actions do speak louder than words, but we are not in a position today to do much more than speculate. The masters have given us the day to do as we please and I intend to use it as a day of recuperation in order to resume training fresh on the morrow."

[Rafe]

Gaimon

Gaimon nods to Drupada, then suddenly cackles mirthlessly, the sound like a droid coughing. "Could it be that this -ksssk- is their most merciless test yet? That we be forced into idleness and speculate, argue and force gaps between -kssssk- ourselves? Day of recuperation... I think this may be as arduous a day as any." His eyes gleam with cold humour.

[Raven T.]

Drupada Taipo

"It is entirely possible you are correct. However, at least, among those assembled here, I get the feeling their test may be backfiring some. From what I've read and experienced, Sith are not 'team players' and we're not at each other's throats...yet." He spoke the last word quietly and full of dread. Divisions bring about a swift demise, be it from outside sources or from within.

[Rafe]

Gaimon

The man stands and shrugs. "The day is still young." With a parting nod, Gaimon leaves the table, walking through the room to the kitchen mess.

[LongVin]

Renato Benso

"Or, perhaps the test is meant to make us work together. Even to a Sith it is difficult to discern what another Sith is thinking. It was the failings of the previous Sith Orders that infighting brought them down even when victory was virtually assured. Our current masters may want to prevent that." It was doubtful that, that was the true reason it would defeat the purpose of culling the weak from the ranks. But it might prove useful to have the others believe it.

[Caewil]

"And how do they intend to do that?" Csaba interjects. "We Sith do not seek a common goal, other than power. Infighting is natural, inevitable as long as there are more than two Sith. Eventually, we will all desire to be the Master."

[LongVin]

Renato Benso

Renato ponders the point for a momemt "It could be done in the way Drupada eluded to. Each Sith Lord can control a section of planets. In this way each Sith has the power he needs and desires and should help to atleast put a limit to infighting."

[Caewil]

Csaba Obscura

Csaba snorts condescendingly, "And what then? We meet on Coruscant every few years to debate policy? The problem with that plan is that it expects Sith to willingly limit their influence to their own sectors. Eventually, even control over a large sector will not be enough. The end result will be civil war. Again."

[LongVin]

Renato Benso

He nods conceding the point "But by that time we should have completely destroyed the last of the Jedi Order, and have made the populace averse to democracy and accustomed to Sith rule. It is not like we will have thousands of sith running around, it will be dozens or hundreds at most."

[Nowhere Girl]

Salina Jax (http://www.myth-weavers.com/sheets/view.php?id=35504)


Salina continues to eat in silence as the debate rages on, the only change being that she now wears a small, amused smile.

[Caewil]

Csaba Obscura

Csaba shakes her head, disagreeing. "No, the Jedi have shown themselves to be suprisingly resilient. Even when their numbers were whittled down to a handful in Palpatine's time, they still managed to recover in less than half a decade."

[TheGreatJabu]

Antos Mereck

Antos scoops up the last shreds of his meal. Not a moment too soon, he thinks to himself. I hope I wasn't assigned to this place to protect a bunch of verbose academics. He abruptly stands and carries his scoured-clean tray to its proper place. With a bit of a clatter, he casually tosses the tray down and he marches directly out of the room in the same manner that he entered.

As he is walking away from the commons area, his pace slows. Antos begins to wonder what he should do with this 'free' day he's been given. Sure as hell don't want to go back to the commons, and it's still a few hours before my next set of exercises. He decides that his time would best be used in speaking with some of the other guards of this facility. Hopefully they'd be able to give him a better idea of what his expected duties would be in this cavern of a compound. Now with a purpose, he resumes his full pace in the direction of the turbolift. He pushes the "Up" button, and waits.

[Caewil]

Csaba Obscura

As Csaba speaks, she hears the clatter of a plate. Without turning her head, she opens herself to the Force, extending her senses to encompass the entire room. She 'sees' a broadly built looking man, one whom she had not perceived before. How did I not notice him? For a moment Csaba is puzzled, then she focuses her senses on him, allowing the other sounds and sights of the common room to fade away. Interestingly, the man was not Force sensitive. Through the Force, the Miraluka can sense his distain for the useless discussion. Her curiosity piqued, Csaba decides to follow him. Who knows, he could make a useful ally.

"May I be excused?" Csaba politely asks the other Sith. Not waiting for their assent, she stands up then strides out through the door after the soldier, following him to the turbolift.

[LongVin]

Renato Benso

Leaning across the table he continues "That was the folly of Palpatine he believed that all the Jedi were dead. He did not devote the proper time to hunting down the last aging remnants of the order of by the time of the Galactic Civil War. Nor did he devote the proper resources to destroying the traitorous children of the Lord Darth Vader."


EDIT: Just fixed a grammar error.

[TheGreatJabu]

Antos Mereck

Antos stands at attention facing the turbolift door, waiting for its arrival. He strains his ears to hear for any signs of its approach. He is distracted from his efforts by a sudden cold chill that runs down his spine - he turns to look over his shoulder to find (much to his surprise) that the blind Sith had come up behind him without a whisper of sound. He grudgingly felt a bit of respect for the woman. Heh. A lot of good my eyes did me when she was sneaking up.

Knowing the typical protocol of how a trooper is expected to treat an acolyte, he steps to the side of the turbolift controls and stands facing halfway between her and the door with ramrod posture and arms locked behind his back in a tighter version of parade-rest. "Up or down, ma'm?"

[Caewil]

Csaba Obscura

Csaba purses her lips, "You sat up there with the Sith Acolytes and ate. The Masters no doubt accord you some respect. I do not think they sent you here to open turbolift doors." Csaba turns and walks to the other side of the turbolift entrance. "Do you have a name, soldier?"

[TheGreatJabu]

Antos Mereck

Antos is a little surprised by the attention. Hmm. Not sure if this is a bad sign or a good one. He maintains the same stance, but looks over to make eye co...Oh, right; face-to-face viewing.

"Mereck, Antos. Sergeant. Truth be told, ma'm, I'm not sure what the Masters have me here for. I commanded a trooper squad until a week ago, when I was transferred." The next line gives him slight pause, and it seems the topic makes him uncomfortable. "I...haven't received new orders yet. Apart from my own personal training and getting oriented in this facility, my days have been unpleasantly idle." That's the understatement of the year. A man could go mad in this place without a task at hand. Assuming that a "regular joe from Coreillia" wouldn't be of interest for long, his gaze returns forward and he continues standing in parade-rest.

[Kaymeera]

"It's something elsewhere…elusive." - Obi-Wan Kenobi

Vykan Zendra

As Mereck and Obscura converse, the turbolift doors finally open, revealing a single Umbaran recruit, who seemed to have been struggling with the controls.

He displays a sign on relief as the doors part, and quickly steps out.

"Finally, I almost thought I was quite trapped in there. I don't think the instructors would have taken too kindly to me if I had cut my way through the walls."

He takes a moment to steady himself, rearranging the cloak he was wearing over a bare chest, which, unlike the robes of the other recruits, glimmered somewhat in the dim light. He then proceeds to examine the conversing pair, first Mereck, then Obscura. As his eyes meet her blindfold a look of grimace appears on his face.

"Ergh, Miraluka.."

[lawful_evil]

Jesara

The young Mon Calamari, having been bored for the last week, sleeps in to pass the time. The idleness is particularly painful for one with so keen a mind. Alas troopers were not given the same access as the acolytes or the masters, so Jesara was not permitted to linger in the Archive doing research.

She lies in bed for a bit longer stretching before finally bathing and getting dressed. Before she leave the room she turns off the humidifier and locks it up with the rest of her private belongings. The air on Hoth was so dry and Jesara's skin was sensitive enough without adding insult to injury.

After dressing and double checking that her uniform was perfect(perception test?), she heads out. She had a uniform custom made to fit her atypical body shape and size. She doesn't really care what her uniform looks like, but she doesn't want to attract the attention or the wrath of those who do care. Her deep brown skin is augmented with numerous narrow bands of auburn. Her large eyes are a yellow/green color, which matches the clothes she wears(when not forced into a uniform). Her bottom lip sports five 2-3 cm tendrils and the left two have a bit of red at the tip of the tendril, while the other 3 have black at the end.

Even for a Mon Calamari she isn't very pleasing on the eyes, her skin has lots of whitish splotches, which remained as scars after each of her numerous bouts with Quarren Shark Pox.

As she walks through the common area, she keeps her head down and walks a wide path around any of the other students that may be there. Heading the the mess hall, she is hopeful they'll have fish, but as she's learned, fish is a rare meal and thus far has never been served for breakfast.

With a sigh she accepts a bowl of some sort of whole grain gruel. The paste is the sort of thing people used to build living structures with 10000 years ago. At least we are beyond that. Of course, now we had to eat it. She eats as though she hasn't eaten in days, quickly buses her bowl and leaves the area before anyone notices her.

She heads down to the engineering area. This part of the facility reminds her most of home. She doesn't really understand the details of the much of the engineering that goes on, but it is all very familiar to her. The relative privacy of the unpopular area allows her to relax a bit. Most of the engineers are also somewhat socially awkward and certainly less overbearing than those found in most of the rest of the facility.

It was in this area that she practiced physical tasks, like cleaning a blaster. She knew what to do and how to do it, it was just a matter of actually doing it. Several of the connectors were often on so tight that she struggled to remove them. Sure, they needed to be tight so the weapon wouldn't fall apart in combat, but someone must someday design a better release clamp which held tight, but was very easy to release.

The only distraction was the occasional acolyte or master walking through and all she needed to do was stand up straight at attention, perhaps salute, perhaps say, "Sir". Nothing too extreme.

{{ DarkOrchid for Jesara. }}

[Caewil]

Csaba Obscura

Csaba turns her ire on the insulting Umbaran. "At least my kind don't go blind when someone shakes a glow-rod at us. Perhaps you had best leave, Umbaran. I was having a most enlightening conversation with Sergeant Merec before you interrupted."

Recalling some Galactic history, Csaba continues her tirade uninterrupted. "Go back to your hovel, or cave, or wherever it is your cowardly people slink away to hide."

Adept Negociator.[roll0] If the result equals or exceeds Zendra's Will defense, he moves 1 step down the condition track.

(Would you like an informal duel? It would give me an opportunity to get used to the forum's dice-roller.)

[Kaymeera]

"As my feet walk from the ashes of Katarr, I shall not fear, for in fear lies death" -Visas Marr"

Vykan Zendra

The Umbaran scowls, and leans forwards, talking slowly into the Miraluka's ear.

"You may see beyond sight in the Force, Miraluka, but you are truly blind if you wish to anger me. Mark my words, I can end you life here and now, and you will meet Death as your precious insight whispers it's final words of warning."

He raises his hand to her other ear, revealing a lightsabre, pointed away. He pushes a button, making sure the sharp whir of the saber's ignition flooded her other ear.

"Can you ... see, Miraluka? Will you tempt me? Will you shun your Force tricks and playful words and fight to your death? Or are you afraid...Miraluka?"

Vykan Zendra falls 1 step down the condition track and he immediately spends 3 swift actions to shake it off.

:smallcool:

[Rafe]

Gaimon

After picking at various foods, watchful of anyone who may be able to see his disfigurement, he walks towards the turbo-lift, having a desire to scan through the datavault terminals in the Archives. The day's idleness was beginning to gnaw at him. And it's still early... he thought discontentedly.

Seeing the three near the lift, an Umbaran apprentice with his activated lightsaber held near the Miraluka he'd seen in the common room, Gaimon narrows his eyes and pulls up short. He is reconsidering his decision - not wanting to share the lift with these others, or even approach it under these seemingly heightened circumstances.

Careful to avoid the bound cables snaking along the rough, frigid walls, he crosses his arms and leans into the corner of the corridor wall, watching, waiting for a more opportune time to ascend to the higher subfloors.

Stealth check to avoid drawing too much attention to his presence.

Giving myself a +2 circumstance bonus for their involvement and using the corner of the corridor for some cover.

[roll0]
Gaimon curses himself quietly as the section of wall he leans against crunches icily. Though pessimistic, he hopes he did not disrupt the goings-on ahead...


((I suppose I could have simply taken 10 on that, but this is more fun, even though the result was dismal... for me.))

[ShadowyFigure]

OOC: Dibs on Navy. Beware: Major Kreia quotations ahead =D

Awaken.

Their it was the voice of the old sith. Only it was more a thought then a voice as was her way spreading rumour and messages through the young Keldor's mind. He had always found himself adept at gathering information and it was only now that he thought maybe... maybe this old womans spirit had always assited him in the arts of manipulation and information gathering. Still Danza's confidence held true and he always saw himself as a powerful manipulator not some pawn in the old ghosts plan. She had promised him insight into the 'true galaxy'. And no matter how much he meditated on these words he still found little meaning in them.

I must rest were the words that drifted through his head as he lay on his bed but to this he rescieved a laugh one of cruelty and malice.

It is only through interaction, through decision and choice, through confrontation, physical or mental, that the Force can grow within you. The choice to rest more then is needed is the choice to weaken ones self. Do not push my patcience you will awaken now or you will face my wrath, choose swiftly.

To this the young Keldor groaned rising from his cot he looks around finding himself in fact not in his own room. But that of one of the regular sith thugs. Who along with four other bodies lay bloody on the floor. In their hands were a mixture of lightsabers and sith blades and only the few blaster marks that lay on the back of the only survivor of the argument he had caused had been from his attacks.

It was in his nature he had found to spread distress amongst allies and so he had found easy to turn the thugs that had bullied him so much the past month against eachother willfully killing each other in a blood fury he enjoyed having little input in the murder they in acted upon each other.

Skill does not always draw from the Force, but it is a measure of power nonetheless. It can grant knowledge, help steady oneself when one's thoughts are in chaos, or grant enlightenment. And so here I give you your orders for today. Meditate on the teaching of the force. I hope that soon... soon you will be enlightened and unlock new powers. You are skillful my young aprentice in the arts of persuasion and deception and for that I compliment you... But leave now, leave these sleeping quaters and meditate on your knowledge somewhere in the academy where you choose... I care not. Finnaly the voice stopping Danza walks off out of the sleeping quaters heading towards the archive.

[lawful_evil]

Jesara

After several hours spent wandering Engineering lost in thought, Jesara decides she needs to shake off the cold. One of the few places in the academy to do that is Medical. With so much exposed flesh and delicate medical samples, the rooms there are kept much warmer than the rest of the facility.

Jesara navigates her way to medical avoiding the petty duels for supremacy and verbal debates, she takes all the often ignored routes. She was very familiar with them after spending most of her time at the academy looking to avoid confrontation. Being confined to a turbolift with other students for even 30 seconds was not an experience worth reliving.

Ah, the medical bay. I was so afraid the first time I was brought here. The beating I received for insulting a superior and disobeying orders was brutal enough. At least they delivered me to medical before I died. Medical was sterile, impersonal, and exposing. Jesara enjoyed the pain. Not just her own, but that of others. The pain exposed another side to the people here. A side not often seen. Pain and Suffering lead to Wisdom and Insight.

When engineering was too crowded Jesara would linger in medical. Watching the doctors and even the medical droids was very educational. Not just from a medicinal point of view, but from a gossip point of view. Jesara was able to observe the injuries sustained and the students who sustained them. She found the student's rhetoric during treatment was usually a play to increase their own morale and self-deceive regarding the true cause of their injury.

Today, medical was mostly empty. Jesara moves around the facility and nods in the friendly way to the personnel. Looks like they've been busy today. Lots of used supplies in the trash and the medical droids are in the self-cleaner. Based on the harse voices I heard from the turbolift, it sounds like it'll be busy again. Maybe I'll get lucky and they'll bring someone through.

[Caewil]

Csaba Obscura

Csaba ignites her lightsaber with a hiss. Her silver blade extends to meet the Umbaran's. "I am not afraid, Umbaran, but perhaps you should be." She stands ready, waiting for the Umbaran to make the first move.

I withdraw and ignite my lightsaber as my move and swift actions, then I taunt Zendra as my standard action, using Adept Negociator as usual.

Persuasion/Intimidate: [roll0] - on a success the same thing happens again.

BTW Kaymeera, withdrawing and igniting a lightsaber requires a move and swift action, so you can only spend one swift action recovering. Should we roll initiative?

Initiative: [roll1]

If the result is 12 or lower, I use my Miraluka racial ability to reroll.

Initiative II: [roll2]

[LongVin]

Renato Benso

With the conversations around the table mostly over, Renato finishes off his drink. Standing up he nods to those still remaining and heads towards the lift to return to the archives and his studies for the day. Maybe he should download a text on the Sith force techniques and put them to practice...hmmm...that could be both enlightening and enjoyable.

[Nowhere Girl]

Salina Jax (http://www.myth-weavers.com/sheets/view.php?id=35504)


Unruffled and unhurried, as though shielded by an invisible bubble from all of the anxious goings-on of the world around her, Salina continues to eat quietly, letting the others talk.

Only when silence finally descends again, and a few of those present have left, does she finally lift her eyes once more from her now nearly empty plate.

"Even still," she says to no one in particular, "there are those who would say that to settle for less, to strive for less than everything ... is weakness."

[Kaymeera]

"You were always a difficult one to read - both when you were tied to the Force, and even more when it was lost to you." - Zez-Kai Ell

Vykan Zendra

"I will not strike you down here, Miraluka, I honor the will of my Sith Masters. If it is a match of skills you want, step into the Dueling Ring."

The Umbaran steps back, leaving his blade active, waiting for Obscura's next move.


Csaba Obscura

BTW Kaymeera, withdrawing and igniting a lightsaber requires a move and swift action, so you can only spend one swift action recovering. Should we roll initiative?

OOC:

Damn, you blew that initiative score right out of the water..

I don't count rounds as they're supposed to in a non-hostile situation, throwing words around or otherwise, so essentially, he took all the time he needed to do ... all that.

Unless, you want to begin combat now, you did essentially win initiative..

1d20+5 (Gah, stupid roller won't let me roll)

Initiative1d20+5=22 (http://invisiblecastle.com/find.py?id=1444809)
First Attack1d20+5=21 (http://invisiblecastle.com/find.py?id=1444829)

OK, won initiative by a hair...so considering what Zendra just said , and I'm 60% certain you won't try and stab him in the back (at least not right now), combat can be delayed.
Vykan Zendra spends 3 swift actions to recover.

[LongVin]

Renato Benso

Coming across the confrontation by the lift, Renato stands off to the side watching quietly. He carefully studies the movements of each combatant taking in their fighting stances and styles. He continues to watch with supressed amusement, how quickly order breaks down and chaos ensues.

[Caewil]

Csaba Obscura

Csaba keeps her guard up, switching to a two handed stance. She continues pointing her lightsaber at the Umbaran. Csaba speaks slowly. "You are quick to change your mind. First you threaten me, now you say you will not attack. Come, strike at me. Try to end my life here and now, as you said you would. A true Sith is not afraid to prove his words."

Wow, nice initiative. I'm not sure how this is going to end. At the moment, Csaba is trying to provoke Zendra into making the first move - which she will then use as a casus belli to justify smushing him. She does not like being insulted or threatened, I'm afraid.

I'm still using adept negociator: [roll0]

Also remember that your attacks, defenses and skill checks all take a -1 penalty due to being 1 step down the condition track.

[ShadowyFigure]

wait.... The voice of the sithlord said as Danza walked through the common area pausing he looked around spotting what the woman, Traya had spotted. Two students who he had seen once or twice before standing by the elevator lightsabers drawn as if ready to kill.

See what information you can unravel from this encounter young aprentice.... The hag spoke once again.

Stepping forward Danza aproaches the two and wishing to not seem hostile in anyway he puts up one of the false personalitys he has always been good at.

" Whoa guys... No Need to cut one throats out here... any problems you have should be sorted up in the dueling room," Danaza says to the two keeping his own lightsaber hilt hidden under his noble robes.



[roll0]
To counter any deception checks made against him.

[roll1]
For his false personality.

[roll2]
Is trying to persuade them to go to dueling room.

[ShadowyFigure]

Though i'd put in my initiative aswell incase combat breaks out so my character can get out as fast as possible.

[roll0]

[roll1]

Foresight allows me to rolls twice and take the best of the two rolls for initiative. So I spend a forcepoint for it. Just in case.

[TheGreatJabu]

Antos Mereck

Antos continues to stand in his position, unflinching, as the sudden arrival of the turbolift and it's blue-skinned humanoid occupant results in a minor clash between the two acolytes. This is the kind of scene he'd learned to expect when two egos collided amongst the Sith. Very exciting the first few times. At this point it's entirely uninteresting. He waits a moment for the two to trade barbs, and when it seems that each of the two is waiting for the other to make a move, he speaks to the man.

"Excuse me, sir. I need to use this lift. Could the two of you take this struggle a few steps further into the hall?"

[Kaymeera]

"Good. Twice the pride, double the fall." -Count Dooku

Vykan Zendra

Zendra ignores both Danza and Mereck's words and continues to grimace at Obscura. He then glances at each of the other recruits, realizing that his temper and tongue had slowly cornered him into yet another duel.

He didn't resist it this time, there was honor to be kept and respect to be earned. The Miraluka will grovel at his feet and he will stand superior.

"I will take your blindfold for my prize."

And with extraordinary skill, Zendra strikes first.

Ok, take a -1 penalty to my last attack roll due to Adept Negotiation.

That's Attack 20 vs. Reflex 16, Hit.

[roll0] vs Dmg Thresh 8 (Devastating strike), Obscura goes one step down the condition track, if the attack proceeds.

Vykan Zendra spends two swift actions to recover.

Fort 16, Reflex, 16, Will 15, -1 down condition track.

HP 44/44

ShadowyFigure, I'm afraid Persuasion doesn't work on other PCs - it's pretty much up to them to choose what they want their character to do :P.

Now, who wants to see me get Windu'd by Obscura? :P Tune in, to the next episode of, Vykan Zendra, the Sith who could!

[Rafe]

Gaimon

The man glances over at Renato as he comes to stand near him. A chuckle mechanically stutters from the wan man's subvocalizer. "-ksssk- Our trip up the turbo-lift may be longer than anticipated..." he mutters, nodding towards the Umbaran and Miraluka, their weapons clashing like a muted thunderstorm.

Gaimon turns amber-brown eyes back to the Codru-Ji. "Do you know another way to reach the upper subfloors -ksk- Renato?"

[ShadowyFigure]

Steping back out of the way of the conflict Danaza lets out a sigh.

" End this quickly I have much to meditate on and you are both blocking the turbolift."

[LongVin]

Renato Benso

Not looking away from the duel Renato answers Gaimon's question. "We could use the stairs," he points to an area a little to the side of the turbolift. "Though, observing this fight may prove to be interesting."

[Rafe]

Gaimon

The lean man follows the pale man's gesture to the darkened stair entrance. Gaimon nods at Renato's observation. "Indeed it could... though should -ksssk- Instructor Serrus come to know of this..." He trails off meaningfully, tapping his wrist comlink.

The pale man's eyes glimmer with dark humour. Between the mask obscuring any features of his lower face and its harsh interpretation of his voice, it is difficult to determine if he is joking or not.

[Raven T.]

Drupada Taipo

That Umbran...always spoiling for a fight. He is a dangerous foe, quick to anger and slow to release it. If I must team with him, one can only hope his path of self-destruction does not take me along. Such feral behavior...he thinks strength only exists if you display it. Durpada said nothing, watching the events unfold. Such encounters were more common among the Sith than anyone realizes, usually from arrogant students posturing for dominance in the belief that it was what would be expected of them.

Drupada's money was on the Miraluka.

[LongVin]

Renato Benso

Renato shrugs away the question. "They each brought this upon themselves, let them settle it themselves," the volume of his voice rises with the last statement as a hint towards the other apprentices now moving to intervene.

[Rafe]

Gaimon

The pallid man feels what is left of his lip curling into a smile, then, recognizing that Renato cannot see any expression, shrugs in reply. "As you say, let -ksssk- them settle this. We only stand to learn from their... engagement."

Gaimon eyes Drupada and the other newcomer. Any interference would only expand this folly, he thinks. The man shifts his head, strands of lanky hair moving out of his arc of vision, and places a thin hand on his lightsaber, wishing it at hand should the conflict broaden.

[TheGreatJabu]

Antos Mereck

The sudden flash of lightsabers being swung certainly got Mereck's attention. He quickly took a large pair of steps back from the duel of the two Sith, keeping a careful eye to avoid the blade of the unidentified blue assailant. Or the blade of the unidentified blind woman. Once he pushed away the cloud over his senses caused by the sudden surge of adrenaline, he was able to view the scene with detatched irritation.

These are the ones who will bring order to the galaxy. These squabbling mutts. In an uncommon reaction, Antos sighs. Ah well. Their methods are irksome, but there's no denying the results. The Sith command respect of others, if nothing else. If anyone can rule the masses, it's them. The sergeant folds his arms in front of his chest and waits for his path to the turbolift to be clear, observing the spectacle before him.

[ShadowyFigure]

"This petty fighting is tiresom. Though I have little skill in combat I know chopping one another up will not further our master cause." Danaza says reaching down to his belt he removes his lightsaber hilt and prepares to protect himself if nescesarry.

[Nowhere Girl]

Salina Jax (http://www.myth-weavers.com/sheets/view.php?id=35504)


Raven, did Drupada teleport? His last action had him still sitting at the table, and now suddenly he's at the turbolift. That puts me in a slightly awkward position, as I'd just had Salina say something to him. Nothing I can't work around, but it's a little jarring.

Also, I was trying to avoid joining everyone else in piling into that scene, but I suppose there's no helping it now, because it's between her and where she wants to go.

Finishing off her small meal, Salina stands quietly and begins to make her way back to the turbolift, hoping to return to the archives and later, perhaps meditation. She has, after all, no other real hobbies, and scarcely any concept of having them. To her, this free time amounts to little more than time she can spend in the studies about which she cares the most.

As she walks, she reflects on the revealing opinions her peers had rendered. The one man in particular was especially talkative, she'd noticed. Too, he certainly could not be a supporter of Darth Terris, unless he was being deliberately deceptive. The most interesting one, however --

Salina stops abruptly, jarred from her reverie as she senses trouble ahead. Her eyes focus on the small group gathered around the turbolift, then on the two facing off with sabers drawn, one of which she immediately recognizes as the miraluka she briefly met earlier. She approaches the fight, then simply stands off to one side, watching quietly.

It could be useful to see what the survivor of the duel is capable of.

[Raven T.]

Salina Jax (http://www.myth-weavers.com/sheets/view.php?id=35504)


Raven, did Drupada teleport? His last action had him still sitting at the table, and now suddenly he's at the turbolift. That puts me in a slightly awkward position, as I'd just had Salina say something to him. Nothing I can't work around, but it's a little jarring.

Also, I was trying to avoid joining everyone else in piling into that scene, but I suppose there's no helping it now, because it's between her and where she wants to go.

I've been in the Common Room this whole time and I can only assume it's small enough that I can hear what's going on from the turbolift, if not, catch glimpses from my position. I do not assume to be near by, that is why I'm not reacting in any visible way.

[LongVin]

Renato Benso

Renato slowly unclips the lightsaber hanging from his belt. He holds it loosely and non threateningly to the side but ready to stop any interlopers who try to put an end to the fight they are not a part of.

[Caewil]

Csaba Obscura

Csaba smiles as the Umbaran attacks. So predictable, she thinks. As the Umbaran's lightsaber arcs towards her in a sizzling flash of red, the Miraluka extends her left arm, deflecting the blade off her bare hand. "Fool. Did you really think it would be that easy?" She spits the words at the Umbaran, then channels her own fury into Force lightning. Crackling bolts of electricity stream from her fingertips, burying themselves in the Umbaran's body.

My UTF modifier means that I automatically succeed on my Negate Energy check. Here's the roll anyway.

Negate Energy: [roll0]

and

Force lightning: [roll1]

Damage: [roll2]

[Caewil]

Since my roll beats Zendra's reflex defense, he takes the full 8d6 damage (ouch) and moves two steps down the condition track since 34 damage is way over his damage threshold. So he is currently a total of 3 steps down and takes a -5 penalty to attacks, skill checks and all defenses. This assumes he does not rebuke.

[Kaymeera]

[roll0]

[roll1]

C'mon, daddy needs to dodge some lightnin'

[Caewil]

Sorry mate, you can't spend a force point on a reaction. :smallfrown:

EDIT: Clarification is in my next post.

[ShadowyFigure]

Shame that lightning was looking mighty cool. Well not for you. but for us it has a nice bzzzz noise.

[Caewil]

EDIT: I was correct, and the reason can be found here (http://forums.gleemax.com/showthread.php?t=966045).


On your turn, you may spend a Force Point as a free action to roll 1d6 and add the result to a single attack roll, skill check, or ability check. You can do this once per round...

The implications are that it is iimpossible to use a Force point to increase your Deflect check, your Block check, Rebuke checks, Negate energy checks, Perception checks versus Stealth, opposing Pilot checks during Dogfights, and any other reactions or opposed checks.


That's generally correct, however there are exceptions to the rule. Any time the text of a power specifically states that you can spend a Force Point as a reaction (rebuke for example) or part of another action (as is the case for negate energy), you may do so.

To conclude, poor Zendra gets hit in the face with a bolt of Force lightning.

[ShadowyFigure]

And here lies the problem with force powers and fights between players....

[Kaymeera]

You're right, can't spend force points except on your turn. Guess Vykan gets fizzled. For the record, Force Lightning is cheap. :smalltongue:

Also, can we, please, move all unnecessary OOC comments (glares at Shadowy) to the recruiting thread, or restrict them to part of your action. Mostly 'cause 6 spoiler tags in a row just plain looks awful.
"The dark side calls to you, [...]. You hunger to taste it" -Darth Malak

Vykan Zendra

Zendra recoils noticeably as the Miraluka's Force Lightning rips through his flesh. His head tilts back and his mouth gapes open as pain riddles his body. He looses a roar as he forces himself forwards once more to engage her, stepping forwards directly though the projectiles. He raises his hand into the air, forming an open fist.

The Miraluka's onslaught immediately stops as she is slowly lifted into the air, struggling for breath.

"You continue to anger me, Miraluka, and you continue to underestimate me. The Force flows through me as a thunderstorm to your trickle of rain."

With the glare from the Force Lightning finally gone, the damage could be finally observed. The sparks of electricity had ravaged the Umbaran's torso and arms, leaving distinct scarring. He had lived through it nonetheless.

"You have no honor. You would not give me the honor of defeating you by skill of blade. You resort to your pathetic tricks time and time again."

The Umbaran tightens the fist and watches, his brown furrowed in a clenched grimace as the Miraluka struggles.

Vykan Zendra spends one swift action to recover, one swift action to catch a Second Wind. He is currently two steps down the condition track.

HP 32/44

Force Grip, Roll 19 vs. DC 15, 14 Damage total, Force Point Used. 19 vs Fort 13 - Obscura can only make a swift action on her next turn and is forced one step down the condition track.

Rolls are here (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showthread.php?p=3712426#post3712426)

[Caewil]

Csaba Obscura

The Miraluka struggles for breath as the air is crushed out of her lungs.

Hey, Grip is even cheaper than lightning. Good going on the Second Wind though. Erm, did you apply condition track penalties to your UtF check? It doesn't make a difference this time, since my Damage Threshold is 13, but still, remember to do so later. I suppose I also move 1 step down the condition track. I spend my swift action catching a second wind, regaining 10 hp.

[Kaymeera]

"My life for yours" - Visas Marr

Vykan Zendra

Zendra finally looses his hold on the Miraluka, simultaneously slashing forwards in a fluid motion, cutting right across her torso. There was no instructions running through his mind this time. No small voice noting various mistakes in his form and personal reminders to try harder. There was nothing at all. His motion was as that of a leaf in the wind; absolute, graceful, involuntary.

Attack: 20 vs. Ref 15. (EDIT: Force Point unnecessary)
Damage 14

Gah, deleting my post removed my rolls, I remember them though, as they are above. Arachnid will confirm damage and hit.

[Kaymeera]

"Power!" -Darth Sidious

Vykan Zendra

The Miraluka retaliated with another burst of lightning, but Zendra stood strong, he had learnt from his previous error and the Force shielded him. He lets loose a final blow.

The Miraluka's figure fell to the ground, finally defeated.

The Umbaran takes a final breath, and then deactivates and holsters his lightsaber. He glances at the fallen Miraluka's torso, before finally speaking, a readily audible whisper, speaking to no-one in particular.

"Call a medical droid."

He then steps up to the body and steps down to one knee beside it. Tilting his head slightly, his arm lunges forwards, grabbing the Miraluka by the hair and lifting up her head. He whispers into her ears.

"You are beneath me, Miraluka, as you always were. You will live, and you will know, that your every breath from this moment on, is a gift from me. Your very life is mine. Do not every deny me, Miraluka, and do not every so much as pester me with your presence again."

As an afterthought, he adds.

"Your weakness revolts me"

With his other hand, he tears off the blindfold, leaving the entirety of the Miraluka's face bared. He then looses the hair and gets up, observing the others, before finally leaving the small circle the cadets had made as they observed the fight. He heads to the common room, and arranges for a meal, eating alone, silently on a table far from the one the recruits had earlier congregated on.

Rebuke Lightning, rolls here. (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showthread.php?p=3712540&posted=1#post3712540) - Lightning nullified.

Arachnid, you're down, by my calculations to 9 Hit Points. (-14 damage, -14 damage, +12 Second Wind. = 25-16 = 9 as well as -2 on the Condition track.

Another attack by Zendra, rolls here (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showthread.php?p=3712547&posted=1#post3712547), Elvis has finally left the building.

[Caewil]

Yep, his rolls are true. I lose :smallfrown:

Since I'm currently unconscious, could someone call a medical droid - or something? I spend a force point to survive, of course.

EDIT: Con check to wake up:

1d20

[Caewil]

Constitution check:[roll0]

Nice, so I'm only out for a minute. You guys roleplay whatever you're going to do for awhile then.

[Rafe]

Gaimon

Gaimon looks to those nearest him and says, "Perhaps now others may use the turbolift and go -ksssk- about their business." The man advances to the turbolift, stepping over the Miraluka, and activates the doors. Knowing others had a mind to use it as well, the lean, pale man keeps the doors open.

Assuming Renato will be joining Gaimon in the lift to go to subfloor 1 where the Archives are.
The man turns his dark amber eyes to Sergeant Mereck. "Trooper, did you have business -ksk- above?"

So much had happened that morning; so much revealed. The Miraluka, though she had lost, had shown a clear head and a willingness to win. The Umbaran held prejudices, had a short temper, and her ego was easily heated by questions of honour. The other human with pale skin whose datapad was often in hand was a thinker and observer. The NCO trooper knew when to keep his distance and avoid involvement. The others he had not seen enough of to formulate even rough opinions.

Good company and diverse, he thought to himself as he continued to hold open the doors. Though as expected, allies and enemies abound. Now... which are which? That will be more difficult to discern. His one-sided smile was hidden behind his cybernetic mask.

[Raven T.]

Drupada Taipo

Good thing no one else heard my bet. The Umbran is an even more dangerous animal than I had anticipated. I must be cautious.

Drupada rose slowly from his seat, leaving two sandwiches on his plate behind, and moved to give the fallen Miraluka a hand. Though she had been defeated...well, he saw a lot of himself in her actions. She used her mind to level the playing field, something the Umbran found to be dishonorable. Well, he can take his honor and shove it right up his [censored]. Lifting her up, he began to take her to the med bay.

"Though you lost the fight, you've earned something far greater; my respect," he whispered so only she could hear. "The dog needed to be put in his place and you did everything in your power to do it. Do not worry; fools like that meet their end one way or another. For what it's worth, I will aid you in any way I can. Simply reach out through the Force and I will be there."

Drupada needed to forge stronger alliances among the other students if his survival was to continue. Vykan would tear through him almost as easily going one-on-one. Besides, he had always gotten along better with women than other men; he didn't have to jockey for position among them in some vain attempt to be the Alpha.

[Caewil]

Csaba Obscura

Csaba listens to the Zabrak speak, realising what has happened. She had been defeated, humiliated by the Umbaran. As she burns with outrage at her defeat, Csaba hears the Zabrak promise her his aid. She grudgingly accepts that - for now a least - she may need allies. "Thank you for assisting me," she gasps, "but I can walk." Csaba's pride, already wounded by her defeat will not stand her being carried to the med bay. Not in front of the other students.

After the Zabrak allows her to stand, the Miraluka massages her injured neck and chest, noting the line of charred flesh crossing her abdomen. She mentally curses her overconfdence. I will not underestimate the Umbaran again. Next time, I will not hold back. She pulls her hood back over her eyes, noting that the Umbaran had made good on his word to take her blindfold. Csaba attempts to walk quickly, eager to get away from the scene of her disgrace. She stumbles just once before returning to her usual long, confident strides. Csaba then marches furiously toward the medbay, only turning back to see if the Zabrak is following.

[Raven T.]

Drupada Taipo

Understandably proud. I know how that goes. We both hate to have our moments of weakness seen. For now, I will watch from a distance and make sure she gets there unmolested. Drupada did not follow as such, but made it a point to poke his nose into the med bay later to make sure she got there safely. Maybe someday you will learn to swallow your pride, as I have...a painful lesson it was...

He had been at the academy for about a month. His indoctrination had been painful, to say the least, but he had weathered it with less screaming and complaining than the others. This and how fast he took to Force abilities fed his ego immensely, encouraging him to hold his perceived position over the other students. He saw himself as the new golden boy among them; destined to become Sith faster than the others. He also believed his age to be an advantage; he was a bit more crafty than the others.

But he was beaten by the various instructors...physically tortured until his pride was under control. It made him more cold and calculating than before, bringing the Dark Side to the surface. It was a hard lesson for the Zabrak to learn, but one that had kept him alive throughout his training lessons.

I must seem subservient to those who have big egos if I intend to make it among them. If they think they're such hot shots, let them prove it. If they survive, perhaps they will be wiser for their mistakes.

But I doubt it.

[LongVin]

Renato Benso

Avoiding the unconcious form of the defeated apprentice, Renato steps into the lift and stands off to the side waiting for everyone to board. He carefully places the lightsaber back on his belt and removes the datapad. He punches in some notes about the fight he just witnessed, noting the combatants powers and fighting styles.

[lawful_evil]

Jesara

Jesara, in her required trooper uniform is poking around the medical facility when the 'blind' acolyte entered. She had smoke rising from her wounds and burnt clothes. Obviously having suffered some sort of attack or more likely a lightsaber duel. Jesara, not one to normally look anyone in the face, did just that with this student. She'd never even glimpsed this woman without her blindfold. Someone must have wished to humiliate her. I wonder if that is how she feels about it.

Jesara could tell by the way she walked that something was wrong. Before she could become angry, Jesara called for the actual medical personnel and their droids, stepping aside so they could work, only wishing to watch thereby learn. Unlike most of the students who looked down on the support staff, Jesara knew them by name, "Doctor Renfrew! Fiona! We need your assistance in here." They would likely just activate a droid to 'fix' the student, but not always.

She knew better than to speak to an acolyte without being spoken to first and certainly knew better than to attempt a social interaction when the other person was so clearly vulnerable. Even Jesara could probably finish off this woman, but that wouldn't further the Sith cause. Allowing this woman to learn, from whatever mistake she made, would be the best way to further our goals.

[TheGreatJabu]

Antos Mereck

The blinding flash of lightning, the ability to brush away beams of energy with their hands; a battle between these Sith was definitely quite the spectacle. He'd gawked the first several times he witnessed such an event. However, he'd witnessed the sight enough times by the end of his basic training with the Sith to realize that such an occurence was not uncommon. Almost as quickly as it began, the fight had ended. The blind woman lay slumped on the ground, and the blue person walked away, bearing the burn injuries as though they were nothing. Antos's eyes turned down to the limp figure on the ground before him. What a waste of manpower. Such is the way of the Sith. The woman now lay still, on the brink of life or death. Another of the acolytes moved to help her - the Iridonian. Nothing Mereck could do anyway - he had no MedPac on him. He continued to watch for a moment, and began to sink into thoughts that would undoubtedly be considered treasonous by his Dark Jedi overlords. It may be their way, but if one of these Sith ever tried to waste the life of one of my men, they'd be dead. My men and I die to strengthen the Sith - not to entertain them.


Gaimon
The man turns his dark amber eyes to Sergeant Mereck. "Trooper, did you have business -ksk- above?"


Mereck is drawn back out from his own thoughts by the strange voice. He looks back up from the woman to see that he is being addressed by the man who looks like he'd seen the insides of a turbine. Respirator.

"Yes, sir. I was headed upstairs to speak with a few of the guards, try to find my new commanding officer, and get some orders. I've better things to do than watch these grudge-matches all day, sir."

He stands to the side as the thin Sith acolyte passes him, but continues to wait for Respirator to either enter the lift or walk away. It was never a good idea to turn your back on a Sith if you could avoid it.

[ShadowyFigure]

Watching as the fight ended Danza looks at the crippled figure of the looser. Thinking he tries to renember the name of her race the renember it was Miraluka he began to understand everything. Watching as the blindfold is taken he glares at the victor from behind his goggle but stops any further action due to the old sith woman in his head.

Calm your self my young Keldor aprentice. These are the kinda of fights you cause... Bur I understand your anger. I to was once humiliated in such a way and so you should not pitty the loser but instead.... Use her loss as a Oppurtunity. The voice said Danza nodding to himself every now as he listens to her words finnaly when she had finished her speach he watches as the Zabrak picks up the Miraluka and begins and so Danza follows trying to hear what is said.

Finnaly a little down the corridor they both stop and the Miraluka rises turning and walking off towards the med bay. Coming up to Zabrak the Keldor lets out a small cough to grab Drupada's attention.

" It is good there are some people who want to help others around this place. Sometimes I think there should be more to the sith students then thugery but instead... More thought and wisdom behind the more brutal ones actions." He says walking closer.


[roll0]
To listen into the words Drupada speaks.

[Raven T.]

Drupada Taipo

Drupada was pulled from his memories quickly by the Kel Dor next to him. "In a way, it serves the evolution of the whole. Those who have no control and completely surrender to their emotions eliminate each other. This makes the Sith stronger by weeding out those who are truly weak...though I must admit, I find it distasteful. So much raw hatred flows through these walls. One can taste it; it permeates one's very being. Hatred towards the Jedi, hatred towards the folks who 'held them back,' and hatred towards a galaxy who hates them.

"It sickens me to see such waste." Drupada's 'feathers' ruffled some at the thought, but he quickly buries the distaste in his mouth, regaining his composure quickly.

"Forgive me; but you are completely right. Most Sith I have seen are more willing to cut off your hand as soon as shake it. They talk about galactic conquest but cannot keep THEMSELVES under control. Take that Umbran for example; so quick to embrace his anger and hate at any perceived slight.

"Of course, I may not sound like most other Sith Lords, but that is irrelevant in my own mind. I would rather focus on my own goals instead of backstabbing my fellows...when I can use them to create the openings I need or want. I also believe in giving those who serve a fair shake when all is said and done."

[ShadowyFigure]

"Yes... Yes it seems we share some of the same views. I am an oppurtunist and try to see how best people can help in my cause. And those who are unable to control themselves can be very, very useful. For they are the easiest turn against one another when pruning is needed amongst the weeds." Danaza says attatching his lightsaber to his belt he takes a deep breath thinking of what the future may bring.

"My Name is Danza by the way," he says stretching out his hand to the zabrak.

[Raven T.]

Drupada Taipo

"Drupada." He takes Danza's handshake firmly. It was good to be making positive contacts. "If you can control them, then they are, in fact, useful. However, I have doubts in my ability to keep the beasts collared and the leash short enough that they do not bite their master."

[ShadowyFigure]

"Hmmm.... That is why I am lucky to be learning from a true manipulator...." Danaza says spacing out slightly.

" I wish to ask something of you... Would you spar with me? I am out of practice and wish to fight someone other then that bloody droid..."

[Raven T.]

Drupada Taipo

"It depends. I sense that it would not be appropriate to do it today, however, I would be more than willing at a later date to accommodate you. What conditions would you like to set for our sparring?" Drupada tosses his head back slowly, closing his eyes. The cuts from that Sith sword still hurt him, even after the bacta treatment earlier. You're in no condition to spar today; do not fall prey to fighting on someone else's terms. You will NOT let good judgment go out the window for ANY reason.

[ShadowyFigure]

"My coinditions would be simple, Lightsabers only and until one of us submits or is near there limit. I dont wish to cause to much damage seening as some else amongst the thugs may take advantage of this..." Danaz replies.

"Where are you off to now I have no orders for the day but to study it would be interesting to actually speak with someone for once who doesn't want my head on a sword."

[Raven T.]

Drupada Taipo

"I'm not sure, to be honest. The archives seem like the logical place to go, considering there are so few places that have nothing to do with actual combat in this building. Maybe we could find something of mutual interest...trade information for information. To be honest, I am a student of history first and foremost. Many forgotten secrets lie in the annals of history...and not just the history of the Sith."

[ShadowyFigure]

" Well I know quite a few things about theh istory of the galaxy let us go to the archives and speak of subjects that interest us my... freind," Danza says turning towards the direction in which the archives are.

[Raven T.]

Drupada Taipo

He's unsure...hesitant. That either means he wants to sucker me into some bad situation or is looking to use me. Do NOT LET YOUR GUARD DOWN. Drupada gave a friendly smile, then follows wordlessly. Only time will tell what is going to happen. Roll with the punches.

[ShadowyFigure]

You have done well. You have found someone who you apears to be trustworthy and also sees your point of view... COntinue my aprentice learn from the iridonian. The voice of the old woman says as Danza and the Zabrak walk together.

This is strange someone I can actually trust in this place. Hopefully this isnt a trap...

[Raven T.]

Drupada Taipo

As they reached the archives, he went to a section that was rarely visited. with his new Kel Dor ally behind him, he turned and stared Danza straight in his eyes. "Time to put all our cards on the table, 'buddy.' I want you to understand something; all I ask for is the respect that is my due. My station is far less important than that. I can live with having someone else as my master, so long as I am treated fairly. If this is not the case...well, that's when heads start rolling.

"Understand that I am not trying to posture here for you to put some sort of fear into your heart. I say this because, if we intend to work together for any length of time, it is important for us to reach an understanding." Drupada smirked some. "Second-in-command isn't as bad as everyone thinks...you only have to answer to one other person." His tone had been completely level and even.

[Rafe]

Gaimon

The pale, wiry man lets the others into the lift, waiting with a detached patience. The lift doors hiss shut. His attention is on this man, a soldier by his looks, discipline his creed by his mannerisms and aura. Here is a man schooled in calculated risk and control, he thought. Raising his arm, he flicks a thin finger towards the control panel, calling the lift back.

Taking 10 on Move Light Objects with the assumption it can also manipulate simple controls/dials/buttons.

"Yes, sir. I was headed upstairs to speak with a few of the guards, try to find my new commanding officer, and get some orders. I've better things to do than watch these grudge-matches all day, sir."

The other students dispersed, Gaimon's eyes shimmer with amusement. "-kssssk- Though you take the safe route of deference, do not 'sir' me, trooper. While some may try to convince you otherwise, we are apprentices. Some of us would like to think we're more than we are... but -kssk- that would be a dangerous mistake, as the Miraluka learned, and as the Umbaran could just as easily have discovered."

The pallid man reaches unconsciously to the respirator mask, his slim fingers tracing the outline of the metal apparatus. He meddles with fine controls at his throat and on the side of the face mask, dim lights shifting hue. He stops. His eyes stare through the soldier, as if focusing on something far beyond him.

Sense Force: [roll0]
The man's dark gaze refocuses. "The Force flows through you as it does with all things, yet..." Gaimon had felt the Force in the man, though it was weak, as if untrained or undiscovered. Interesting...

Gaimon shrugs disarmingly and gestures to the interior of the lift as it returns to their subfloor and swishes open. "Enter. I, too, am going -ksssk- up."

Once inside the lift, the lean man turns to the soldier and says, "My name is Gaimon." He extends his arm to the trooper.

[Nowhere Girl]

Salina Jax (http://www.myth-weavers.com/sheets/view.php?id=35504)


Salina steps around the fallen miraluka without comment or apparent concern, ignoring the victor of the duel entirely once it has ended and only briefly shifting her gaze and quirking an eyebrow when Drupada moves to help the fallen woman. Her expression registers no surprise, however -- only wry amusement.

Standing in the lift with the other apprentices and the trooper, she once again settles for watching and listening as the others speak, only showing a small hint of surprise when Gaimon addresses the trooper, introduces himself, and actually extends his hand. It's almost as though it had never occurred to her before even to notice the existence of the trooper at all, and indeed, only after Gaimon's gesture does she really look at the man herself, as if seeing him for the first time.

Finding herself suddenly curious, she watches him closely, studying his face with her disturbingly unwavering stare as she waits for his response.

[Rafe]

Gaimon

((OOC: Hmm... Salina, not sure how to respond as my post was made with the purpose of having allowed those wishing to use the turbolift to do so, and otherwise waiting for others to disperse. However, I certainly don't mind the company though I'm not sure how much Gaimon would have 'admitted' about his feelings with regards to the apprentices' positions within the Academy; downplaying their strengths and all.

Double OOC: having been in Infantry Officer Training, I know what it's like to be in a position of authority... with the authority stripped in name for the duration of training. In Canada, the officer corps is trained by sergeants, warrant officers and master warrant officers in order to better understand how to relate to those who are the most critically important to a new second-lieutenant - his/her 2IC and section leaders. It also teaches humility and allows front-line NCO experience to factor into officer molding, bringing the officer corps more in line with NCOs and attempting to diffuse the prevalent Them And Us mentality.

I see the same sort of dynamic as existing in the Sith Academy. While we are "officers", we aren't in the sense that we're still considered in training and thus have no authority that we might otherwise have outside of the academy. Not sure if that makes any sense, and it may be a false assumption - maybe we do have de facto authority over soldiers and the strictly military arm of the Sith, as well as any administrative personnel. I've chosen to downplay the apprentices' authority as there's already enough presumption, ego, etc., to go around and I'm thinking the masters/instructors would want to smash as much foolishness as possible as early on as possible.))
Gaimon nods to Salina, acknowledging her presence but keeps his attentions on the soldier. I hope another's presence won't close him up like a Ryll sandflower, he thinks. Allies are important, and trust is the basis for any alliance worth a damn. He's already in a difficult position: trapped in a plasteel shell with two Sith apprentices, in the ice-and-stone belly of this frigid planet. How he responds will say as much about him as what he says.

The lean man attempts to soothe the trooper with his bearing - cool, but patient and unconfrontational.

[LongVin]

Renato Benso


Renato nods politely to the sith trooper boarding the lift. Remembering his teaches back in the Imperial Remnant, The Empire is like a pyramid, the emperor is merely the guiding tip, below him are his more numerous advisors holding him up and making sure he is informed on the affairs of the Empire, then come the leaders of his military more numerous than the advisors who carry out his will, and so on and so on until you come to the soldiers at the base of the pyramid who see that his will is done. As such, it was always important to treat the men under your command well so they will willingly give their lives for you. The idea applied equally to leaders without the force and to Sith Lords. Even a Sith Lord can not be in all places at once and can still...even with great difficulty be killed.

[TheGreatJabu]

Antos Mereck

As is his usual behavior, he mechanically returns the nod of the thin acolyte in the lift and heeds him no further. However, Respirator's sudden initiation of conversation requires a bit more attention.


Gaimon

Once inside the lift, the lean man turns to the soldier and says, "My name is Gaimon." He extends his arm to the trooper.

The hesitation of Antos is obvious. His eyes involuntarily flick down to the arm, but quickly come back up to watch this 'Gaimon'. No real choice. He speaks casually a bit before he slowly steps into the turbolift and reaches out to clasp the other man's hand. "Apologies, sir. You know what they say - 'shaking hands with a Sith is the best way to lose an arm'. Sergeant Antos Mereck. And if it's all the same to you I'll continue to address you this way, sir." He releases the handshake and resumes his stance. "One thing the Sith do not lack is pride. Whether or not an apprentice minds being shown respect, that same acolyte's Master may be insulted by the lack of deference to the pupil. Danger comes from all directions - those of us who cannot 'sense' it coming must compensate by taking extra precautions."

As he speaks of danger coming from 'all directions', he catches a bit of motion out of the corner of his eye. He steals a glance away from Gaimon to investigate and notices another acolyte observing the two - the young, incredibly fair-complected woman. Drawing the interest of one of these Sith is either a good sign, or far more likely a bad one. He gives her the customary, automated nod and returns his attention to Gaimon.

[ShadowyFigure]

Following his new ally Danaza bigins to sift through the nearby archive records wishing to find something of interest finnaly after finding something on the past major influences on the galaxy Danza turns to Drupada.

"You are wise one. Are your really a sith aprentice?" Danaza says smiling behind his dioxidizer mask.

"But I respect your standards. Respect will be given were it should be is what I think I only feel no respect towards those who... Well throw themselves into the fire. As I taught a couple of thugs last night... That is one way of getting yourself into a bad situation,"

[Nowhere Girl]

Salina Jax (http://www.myth-weavers.com/sheets/view.php?id=35504)


No return nod.

Neither a smile nor a frown.

Not even a visible twitch.

Just that eerie, unblinking, unwavering, vaguely inquisitive stare.

[Kaymeera]

"Would you like a cup of Jawa juice?" -Waiter Droid

Vykan Zendra

Grinding sounds echo off the walls of the common room as the mysterious Umbaran munches away. Alone.

[Fredricus]

Raiko

The Umbaran wasn't alone. A sound of knives scraping a plate is heard from the shadows, sounding almost deliberate. Raiko had faded to the background, watching when the duel started. No one had paid attention on him, he was a shadow.

Raiko was hidden from casual observers but not from those putting some effort in it. He stepped out of the shadows, a plate in one hand and two knives in to others. The blades of the knives reflected very little light.

"You've had a busy day" he said to the Umbaran

[Rafe]

Gaimon

The lean man shrugs minutely to the soldier. A firm grip. His words indicate a fearful - or survival-based - respect, but he keeps a cool head under pressure and is relatively unfazed by the apprentices, Gaimon muses. This is good.

"You'll not lose an arm around -ksssssk- me, Sgt Mereck. I feel you downplay your abilities, so it would be no easy task even if I wished to do so.

"Extraa-kssk- precautions are needed by all," Gaimon continues, "especially those attuned to the Force, as its use sends ripples through the galaxy for others to sense. It is a tool, a weapon, an aide... but it can also make targets of us. Give and take; balance."

Still facing ahead, the pale, lean man looks through lengths of unkempt dark hair, attempting to read a reaction from the other Sith apprentice.

Salina, I think she said her name was. Salina... with eyes like Jaeda's... The man shakes his head subtly, but covers the movement by reaching up to his subvocalizer cybernetics. No, not so similar, perhaps, after all.

...that Jedi trainee will see me again...

[Raven T.]

Drupada Taipo

"I am Sith only because the Jedi wouldn't take me, even if I wanted them to. I will learn the Sith teaching, I will take them for what they are worth, and move on when the time comes." Drupada continued to speak in a level, even tone. He spoke truthfully; he would work with the Sith as long as it served his interests. A mercenary attitude, yes, but he wasn't going to commit to something that could prove fatal in the end.

"I can live with that. I don't expect respect when it's not earned." He smiles some darkly. "I think we have reached an understanding."

[ShadowyFigure]

"Indeed." Danza says as he begins to look through the information he had chosen on a datapad. Sitting he beggins to look into it indepth coming across records listing names such as Palpatine, Vader but also some names he hadn't heard of before. Name suchs as Revan, Malak and Bastila. Looking over the information he lets out a sigh as Traya begins to talkm in her normal monotone.

Well done my aprentice... You truely have learnt much. But there is so much more and so I shall accompnay you no matter where you go and teach you what it truely means to... manipulate. and so I give you this warning. Express your views as much as you want but renmeber there must always be a Darth Traya, one that holds the knowledge of betrayal. Who has been betrayed in their heart, and will betray in turn. One such as yourself... and from this you cannot escape.

[Raven T.]

Dupada Taipo

As Danza comes across names he doesn't recognize, he explains their prominent roles in history...especially Revan. He also takes the history back further, covering the war of Exar Kun and the Great Hyperspace War. Drupada feared that most of the students wouldn't see the richness of history, especially considering that a great portion of history has been lost or forgotten.

Sith history was one of violence and destruction. They constantly war against anyone and anything. It wasn't surprising that their plans had failed time and time again. They always seemed to be shortsighted....the only one who had any success had been Sidious, but even he had been undone by failing to cover all his bases. No, Drupada had no intention of going down that path. He would achieve his goals through his own means...

[TheGreatJabu]

Antos Mereck

Antos listens to Gaimon's brief commentary on the Force approvingly. The man's got a good head on his shoulders. He displays no outward sign of the crack that shoots through his mind. Most of a good head, at least. Minus a part or two.

When his counterpart glances back over at the Sith woman again, Mereck's sense of tension returns. He is able to maintain his rigid posture thanks to years of scrutiny from his superior officers. But inside, he knew this was different. This was no colonel; no drill sergeant, but a Sith acolyte. He begins to feel the nervous energy to fidget, to move, to do something. The very thought of it irritates him. Look at you. A little staring and you're about to squirm around like a fish. That's exactly what she wants to see, and you know it. He clenches and releases his hands behind his back as he remains in his stance, and he lets out a slow breath. Not now. Not this time.

He considers making a cheap jibe to Gaimon about how the woman must have taken a liking for one of the two, but dismisses the thought. People crack jokes to cover their unease. No mask, no shield for him. He'll just take it. He's had worse.

[ShadowyFigure]

Listening carefully to Drupada Danaza thanks him for the information and returns the information to the archive. As he begins to try and find something in which he is interested he descides to show Danza something from his datapad turning he hands the datapad over.

" Look here information I managed to extract from something a while back it gives details on the power of ancient sith lords. These powers are where my plans are set to osme how discover them and return them to the sith so that again the sith may have the power time robbed from us. Of Course this would be hard to do alone and at my current level of skill where I find it impossible to even manipulate the force effectivly it will remain impossbile." He says thinking of what Kreia had taught him of all those years before on his homeplanet.

[Raven T.]

Durpada Taipo

Drupada cocked his head to the side some. He wants to restore the strength of the Sith lords from days gone by. I'm not so sure I want to go down this road; there is something...off about his desires. There's a reason that some secrets have been buried...like Malichor V...but we cannot be suspicious. Let him open up for a change. Even if he's feeding me only the information he wants me to know, it still gives me an insight into his motivations...and how to counteract him. 'Dead Sith do not give their secrets easily. Even in death, their lust for power persists. You may be biting off more than you can chew.

"However, I can understand why you would want to do this. Reviving these powers will give you more than an edge against those who oppose you. Just have a care. Hubris can be just as dangerous as some saber wielding fool."

[ShadowyFigure]

" Yes that is true I'm sure if you look bck there are plenty who failed in there plans because of this..." Danza says taking back the Datapad.

" Of course it all depends on what the future hold and if the masters even take an interest in one such as me with little skill in combat or the force. Though I am knowledgble and useful in negotiations what of you how do your skills fare in this cursed academy."

[Raven T.]

Drupada Taipo

"I'm a pilot, first and foremost. I love sitting in the cockpit of a starfighter and demolishing the opposition, though I also know my way around a freighter. My skill with the Force grows daily, but I know there are many more skilled than I am at wielding it. I think we can compliment each other well enough; negotiation skills were something that the masters never touched on here.

"I never understood, though, why they never teach those who can use the Force how to hack computers...or even Astrogate...."

[Kaymeera]

"The Dark Side clouds everything" - Yoda

Vykan Zendra

Zendra doesn't even look up as Raiko speaks. He instead drops his spoon into his food, still looking straight ahead.

"I was wondering when you were going to come out."

[ShadowyFigure]

" Well thats where I have no skill computers and piloting were never presented to me I already seemed a tad to adventurous to my parents when I was a child on my home planet and so my teachers kept those kind of things away from me and your right the masters do lack in there teaching here it almost seems they are trying to train a era of hot headed sith with more bark then bite and the tendancy to over mark there rank compared to those with no force sensitivity. It seems not many in this academy know of the great Mandalorians who very little force sensitives have come from. If ever in a battle with one of them im sure the sith that apear to be cropping up around here would soon die... Painfully. However this doesn't go for everyone there apear to be a few who arn't fools. Or thugs." Danza says taking note to pause for breath for effect at the last part in case any of thos ehe spoke of were listening in.

" Of course I suppose some people have to be the young pups of the pack trying to dominate others.

[Fredricus]

Raiko

Raiko sat down at the Umbaran's table. He had now witnessed him as a capable melee and force-user.

"Then you didn't dissapoint me" Raiko answered Zendra's comment

[Kaymeera]

"To be united by hatred is a fragile alliance at best" -Kreia

Vykan Zendra

Zendra continues to stare down at his food, though, obviously, thinking, or perhaps even, just listening to the whispers echoing throughout the hall.

"When I think of her, when I think of the Miraluka, the Force whispers to me. I hear words from far-off places, and words closer by. The Dark Side is strong here, the Miraluka focuses me, and I listen."

He then slowly turns to face Raiko, a stern and grim looked had slowly appeared on his face.

"What do you have to say then? Are you here to make me a Hutt's deal? Perhaps you wish to forge an alliance, or maybe a friendship, like the so many being made as we speak while the conspirators hold daggers behind their backs and wheedle their way to their ends."

His tone was angry, he calms himself for a moment, before continuing.

"But I have seen you fight, and you have no silver tongue. You have some honor. Why are you here?"

[Raven T.]

Drupada Taipo

"I was somewhat fortunate. As a small child, I was either abandoned or simply misplaced during a trip to Manaan. The Selkath took me and put me into an orphanage, apparently for several months before a couple of spacers who owned a shipping company out of Corellia came by and adopted me. They treated me well enough and I began flying the starlanes when I was 17. In truth, the Astrogation had always been preset for any of their pilots to make sure that none of the freighters turned up missing. Once I left them, they gifted me with a fighter...I believe it's still in the hangar...with a QT model astrodroid that took care of plotting jumps for me.

"But you are right. Most Sith are all bark and no bite, even down to the rank and file troopers. Superiority is preached so often to all members that it breeds arrogance, as I already discussed with some other members of the community. All we can do is the best we can to insure the survival of ourselves and our ambitions." Drupada searched through his datapad and landed on an entry that should seem very familiar to Danza. "Others before us have gone against both Jedi and Sith to forge their own way. Take her for example." He slides the datapad over. The image indelibly marked on the screen is that of an old woman, cowl pulled down over her nonfunctional eyes. Though Drupada had no idea of the relationship between her and the Kel Dor, he mentioned Kreia out of a deep respect he had for her teachings and ambitions, even if her ultimate goal in life was something he could not fathom. She had been Revan's first...and last...teacher.

[Nowhere Girl]

Salina Jax (http://www.myth-weavers.com/sheets/view.php?id=35504)


If Salina notices Gaimon's sidelong look, she doesn't give any indication of it. Her gaze remains fixed on Antos -- at once intense and unwavering, yet also, in some strange way, betraying a hint of an almost childlike curiousity. Her eyes shift downward slightly to take in the trooper's whole form, then back up to his face.

Finally, abruptly, she says in a flat, matter-of-fact tone, "That looks uncomfortable."

[TheGreatJabu]

Antos Mereck

Antos pauses a moment to make sure the woman was addressing him. If they eyes were any indicator, the answer was a resounding 'yes'. Unless she was just attempting to provoke him, Antos wasn't entirely sure what she was getting at. He decides to reply with a purely diplomatic answer. "Begging your pardon ma'm, but I doubt there are many who joined the Sith for the comforts it offers."

His curiosity gets the better of him, and he continues speaking in a politely-feigned inquisitive tone. "What precisely are you referring to? Uniforms? Stance?" He gestures towards Gaimon. "This man's orthodontic work?" The words already out of his mouth, he can't help but try to save face by not reacting to them. His irritation caused by the woman's stares had made him forget his better judgement. Damn, he chides himself. That may have been too bold. Guess I'll find out whether he has a sense of humor or not the hard way, now.

[Fredricus]

Raiko

"Hutts?" Raiko looks amused at Zendra

"Well, the Hutts ego is atleast as bloated as their body. I'm not here for fine words, many things can be done without words"

Raiko thinks about the Zendra's last question before replying

"The force gives an edge in survival and in hunting. I've witnessed a skilled force using predator. One capable of turning any predator to prey. The force truly breaks the shackles of the mind and body of the wielder"

[ShadowyFigure]

Staring at the datapad for a couple of seconds Danza looks upon the picture seeing how she exactly resembles Traya he smiles beneath his mask.

Ahhhh... So this one knows of me. Be careful aprentice if he discovers our connection the situation could get bad. Anyone who finds out about the holocron may go searching for it. Traya voice suddenly says as Danaza looks more carefully at the picture wondering if it is at all possible to have eyes as she once did ones like the Miraluka...

"Sometimes ones own path is the better one." He says looking into Drupadas eyes. All he has spoken apearing to be the truth by his straight and level face.

" Of course such ambitions can be dangerous"

[Nowhere Girl]

Salina Jax (http://www.myth-weavers.com/sheets/view.php?id=35504)


Salina opens her mouth to reply, but the words die unspoken in her throat, an odd look crossing her face as she registers what the trooper just said about Gaimon's jaw.

Her eyes shift very slowly to the other apprentice, the corners of her lips twitch upward ... and she does something that, coming from her, is more than a little unexpected: she begins laughing softly, her usually flat voice turning light with amusement.

[LongVin]

Renato Benso

Renato's head pops up as the trooper spits out the apparent insult to Gaimon. That certainly wasn't smart. His gaze changes to Gaimon to see his reaction but then is quickly drawn away by the chuckling Salina. Now, this is really bad. There certainly would be a fight now, a fight between the Sith and the trooper would of been onesided and over quickly, but between the two Sith that was a different matter...and they were still in the confined space of the lift.

Pushing his back into the corner of the lift to get as much distance from the two he waits for Gaimon's reaction. Hopefully it won't lead to a fight, the almost certain destruction of the lift and probably destruction to himself.

[Kaymeera]

"He said you have turned to the Dark Side...that you killed younglings" - Padme

Vykan Zendra

"I know something of predators and prey."

The Umbaran continues to glare into Raiko's face, considering him slowly.

"We have not been acquainted. Who are you? Where do you hail from?"

[Raven T.]

Drupada Taipo

"Can you imagine...someone so scarred by people that you wish the death of the Force..." Drupada spoke absentmindedly, still trying to wrap his brain around it. Though he did respect Traya, he had no desire to go in search of any artifacts involving her; after all, she IS the Sith Lord of Betrayal. No, he was interested in only one man.

"But I forget myself. Any ambition can be dangerous if one does not retain focus in the here and now. Sometimes, we actually NEED others to keep us grounded.

"Back to the subject at hand, though. Do you have any idea where someone would start? You wouldn't have mentioned this to me unless you had an idea...and were looking for me to aid you in some way."

[ShadowyFigure]

"First I would wish to visit the ruins and tombs of Korriban. Then from there seek out the places people long abbandoned. Or those that no one would live unless in desperate need of concealment. I speek of places such as Dagobah and Malechor V before its destruction. I would require help in this one such as yourself and the Miraluka who apear not to be wannabe marauders. Especially the Miraluka whose force sight would come in use later..." Danza replies.

Well... He may speak many truths... But no one is control with their destiny weather they be betrayers or not... Traya says to Danza.

" I ask that we form a small Alliance between are selves if possible Nothing at first would be drawn from it apart from respect and our shared knowledge of the force. But later during missions or travels it is you two I rely on to help me in my research if possible. There is more then old power I wish to come across there are many things I wish to know about the galaxy...Though of course we would have to speak with the Miraluka..."

[Rafe]

Gaimon

The man tenses at the sergeant's words, his eyes widening reflexively. Turning to face the sergeant, placing his back to the other two apprentices, his eyes gleam in cold amusement. This is a critical moment. This man must not presume too far, and yet I must not close him off from me...

Gaimon reaches to his mask and, with a few agile movements of his fingers, the respirator mask and neck subvocalizer both come away with a quiet shik.

The right side of Gaimon's face is mostly intact, his upper lip is curled in a grim smile. His upper gums and teeth are there, but where his left mandible and jaw should be is... nothing. The flesh, where it isn't absent completely, is burn-scarred and twisted. It is as though a fiery fist had grasped his lower left jaw and torn it away, taking a part of his neck to his larynx with it. The harsh light of the turbolift reveals a sear-scarred stump that was his tongue in the hole of his mouth.

With a movement borne of rote familiarity and practice, he replaces the mask and subvocalizer and readjusts the voice modulating synchronizer.

His voice sounds distant and metallic, as though spoken through plasteel. "-kssssksssk- My orthodontics work takes very little time but requires a technician who has a strong enough stomach to handle the sight."

Gaimon shrugs, a gesture that, for him, comes naturally - one of many compensations for lack of ability to express lower-face body language.

Leaning in close to the trooper, bringing the ruined side of his face close to the man's, he whispers with a touch of humour: "Did you enjoy the view?"

[Raven T.]

Drupada Taipo

"I think it would be best for you to speak with the Miraluka, though I will accompany you in case something goes wrong. Your terms are acceptable. We all have our own goals, but we stand to gain them much faster if we work as a cohesive unit.

"I must suggest that we also watch each other's backs in the short term. If we can come to enough of an agreement to ourselves from killing each other, then we need a united front against the others...the Umbran, especially."

[Caewil]

Csaba Obscura

Csaba floats in a bacta bath, oblivious to everything but the Force.

I am in a Force Trance. Wake me up if you need me.

[ShadowyFigure]

"Indeed and I suppect we could gain the allegance of a foot soldier or two..." Danza says he then turns on his heels and looks back at Drupada.

" I wish to go meditate for a while join me if you wish if not I will speak with you later." he says walking off he had much to think of including what his very first move would be...

[TheGreatJabu]

Antos Mereck

The sight of Gaimon's face makes Antos's stomach churn - both with disgust and anxiety. He'd seen some pretty horrible wounds on other soldiers before, but never so up-close as this. The realization of what impact his words must have had on the Sith only served to further the intense discomfort in his gut. Damned fool! This man may try to kill me by all rights! Realizing his predicament, all he can do is struggle to maintain his stoic composure. If he's going to strike, he'll do so regardless of how I act. Just don't back down - it's too late for that.


Gaimon

Leaning in close to the trooper, bringing the ruined side of his face close to the man's, he whispers with a touch of humour: "Did you enjoy the view?"

As Gaimon leans in close, it takes every last ounce of discipline Mereck has built over his life to not shy away. He keeps his head up, jaw locked, chest out, back straight, and waits for what feels like minutes. When asked the question, Antos replies in a completely straight-forward manner: he was never particularly fond of guile, and in this situation he was confident that pretty words would serve him no better than the flat-out truth. "It was definitely a surprise, sir. I thought that device was merely a respirator of some kind. That was obviously quite a bold assumption to make."

[Fredricus]

Raiko

"Raiko... from the wild"

"Who are you?"

[Rafe]

Gaimon

Dark amber eyes still glinting with a hint of humour, Gaimon tilts his head slightly. "Some say that a -kssk- mistake is not a mistake unless it's repeated," the man muses. The pallid man runs a slender finger down his mask and subvocalizer unit. "Sometimes that's true. Other times, there's no room for even a small error in judgement. I -ksssk- lived to realize that lesson, and it has made me stronger. Or at least it's made me more cautious." The pale man eyes the trooper meaningfully.

The one who gave it to me will suffer... if I ever find that Jedi wench again.

Still watching the soldier: "You don't strike me as someone who makes many mistakes. -ksssssk- We'll call this one an 'experiment'. Hsssst-hssst-hssst" The final noises sound like a damaged servo hiccuping but may be recognized for the chuckle it is.

[Kaymeera]

"Make peace with the Force now. For this, is your final hour." -General Grievous

Vykan Zendra

The Umbaran frowned slightly. He had found some amusement in the four-armed alien's earlier dry and continuous monologue. It was growing tiresome, however, and it was slowly dawning on the Umbaran that he might just be conversing with nothing more than a sentient born and bred, just there, in the wild. A being bound by blood-thirst, wilderness' competitiveness and an ever-nagging paranoia coupled with an instinct for survival. Useful in certain situations, but well out of frame here.

Indeed, both the Umbaran and the Codru-Ji may have been predators, but the prey were leagues apart.

"Very well, Raiko of the wild", he sneered, ignoring Raiko's query, "You still haven't answered my question".

[Fredricus]

Raiko

"I did... let's say Tatooine to please you"

"You haven't answered mine"

[TheGreatJabu]

Antos Mereck

The man holds his ground, unflinching (and unblinking) through Gaimon's reaction. He keeps waiting to lunge back to avoid the blow that he expects to be coming soon.


Gaimon

Still watching the soldier: "You don't strike me as someone who makes many mistakes. -ksssssk- We'll call this one an 'experiment'. Hsssst-hssst-hssst" The final noises sound like a damaged servo hiccuping but may be recognized for the chuckle it is.

Antos turns to look at Gaimon - a glimmer of surprise and relief escapes to his face. A Sith willing to stay his blade? He even seems to find my situation humorous. The muscles of his stomach unwind themselves, and Mereck's emotions shift to one he hadn't expected to feel at this place - admiration. He's not just some furious, saber-swinging Dark Jedi; he's a man. I like this one. He replies with a tone that is still deferential, but confident. "Yes, sir. You could say that my hypothesis was proven quite wrong today." Antos is interrupted from speaking further by the chime of the turbolift as the doors begin to swing open. As always, he pauses to allow the others to exit the turbolift first. He'd already been reckless enough for one day.

[Nowhere Girl]

Salina Jax (http://www.myth-weavers.com/sheets/view.php?id=35504)


Watching the mini-drama unfold before her, Salina notes with undisguised interest Gaimon's reaction, finding herself admiring the way in which he maintained self-control and managed to save face (at least the face he still had to save) all in one carefully chosen response. There's something to that one, she decides.

When the turbolift arrives at its destination, she exits slowly, turning to regard Antos again, and abruptly decides to linger for a few moments longer. He had, after all, also managed to capture some of her interest.

"You're bold," she tells him in her customary soft, quiet, unhurried tone. "I like that." She pauses momentarily, almost as though she's said all she means to say, then asks as an afterthought, "What is it that a man like yourself does with his time?"

[Rafe]

Gaimon - Archive, Basement 1

Gaimon wryly nods to both the woman and trooper before stepping from the lift. I've exhausted my social stamina, I think.

Into the wide, open Instruction Hall of the first sublevel the pale man strides, glancing left and right at the all-to-familiar surroundings. Choosing to avoid the main hall, he walks left into the Alchemy Lab.

Moving from the rough white and grey of the main areas, he finds himself in a room dimly lit by wall units. Adding to the variant atmosphere are the various chemicals, alchemicals and strange apparatuses, some of which are luminous in soft crimson and cerulean. It's warmer here than in the other areas of the academy. Gaimon always felt as though the room was an otherworldly place and while his skills and interests lay elsewhere, he enjoyed its alien smells and sights.

On the far side of the lab led was the Archives, where datavaults sat like brooding, glowing storage lockers and empty terminals beckoned the curious. Holorecorders and -emitters sat on desks near the terminals. Thick bundles of cabling ran across the ceilings, snaking through the room and beyond.

Gaimon saw two already within. Danza and... Drupada was it? he thought. Regardless, he recognized them. They seemed to be in conversation, so Gaimon chose a distant terminal and triggered the databank login.

He began to search through the 'vaults, scanning items of note, looking for something to prompt his interest. His mind had something specific in mind, but he was content to peruse as if waiting for that thing to object to his avoidance.

[TheGreatJabu]

Antos Mereck - Instruction Hall, Basement 1

Once the others had exited the lift, Antos followed suit and stepped out. The movement felt good - he hadn't realized how tense his muscles had been when standing in the lift. There was little time to enjoy the bloodflow, however, as he was addressed by the woman who had been observing his conversation very intently.


Salina Jax (http://www.myth-weavers.com/sheets/view.php?id=35504)


"You're bold," she tells him in her customary soft, quiet, unhurried tone. "I like that." She pauses momentarily, almost as though she's said all she means to say, then asks as an afterthought, "What is it that a man like yourself does with his time?"

Antos never knew how to react to the approval of a Sith acolyte. His knee-jerk reaction was always to take their words with a whole block of salt, foregoing the single 'grain' entirely. This Gaimon may not have matched Mereck's expectations of how a Dark Jedi behaves, but that's not to say this woman wouldn't.

"I do my job, ma'm. Since I've been transferred here, though, it's unclear what that job might be. I've yet to find the individual I'm to report to - I've been told that he's intentionally an elusive fellow. Considers it a test; some kind of 'hunt'. No surprise coming from a Rodian." Antos begins glancing around the area as he continues. His hands raise to rest on his hips as he looks about casually. "Not a big place, though, and everyone develops a pattern sooner or later. Once I've spoken to enough guards, figured out what times he goes to what places, I'll get him."

Once he finishes scanning the area for guards to question, he looks back at the Sith woman. His stance becomes formal once again, and his arms lock behind his back. "And what does an acolyte such as yourself do with her time, beyond 'gather Intel', ma'm?"

[Cazziuz]

Kraygor

Kraygor had started this day like any other. A couple of pushups to keep his arms from losing their strenght, a short bath and a standard meal at the mess. They had been given a day off, so he decided to relax abit and maybe even get to know some of the other students. It's not like he had had much of a chance for socializing since he arrived at the academy. Unfortunantly, it seemed that a few of the other students were agitated by the lack of something to do this day. As he sat in the mess, he heard the sounds of lightsabers being activated from further down the corridor. Their soft humming easily reaching his ears. Moving to a table so that he could see what was happening, he continued with his meal.
The creepy guy and the blind chick shouldn't be fighting so recklessly. They could hurt one another gravely, something that our bosses wouldn't like too much...

The fight was over in a few seconds, barely enough time for Kraygor to identify the different powers being used.
Quite a few of the students in the mess had also noticed the fight, and Kraygor where but on of many faces looking at the ones involved as the group dispersed. Shaking his head, Kraygor finished his meal and stood, seeking to ask the creepy guy why he spared the chick's life.

The Umbaran might not have noticed it, but severel students had left as he walked into the room. The only people left where the Umbaran, the one who said he was 'of the wild' and Kraygor himself. He listened carefully to what they said as he left the mess, not wanting to intrude upon their conversation.

Jeeze, I'd better get a couple of friends around here, and fast too! he thought as he headed towards the turbo elevator.
Maybe someone would be interested in training force powers with me?He pressed the controls that would call the turbolift down to this level and continued to speculate.

((Sorry for the long post, but had a bit of catchingup to do))

[LongVin]

Renato Benso

Leaving the lift Renato heads to the right and to the archives his home away from home. Strolling through the aisles of the archives he casaully browses the collection of work, relaxing in the domain of knowledge. He keeps his eyes open for any fellow acoyltes who may be present. It is always good to know what they others are studying.


OOC: Anyone in the archives?

[Kaymeera]

"Naked? What do you mean, naked?! -C3P0

Vykan Zendra

The Umbaran was getting impatient, his right index finger was tapping the table.

"As anyone, anyone, in this Academy can tell you, my name is Zendra, the best duelist of our tier. Now, I don't care if you don't want to divulge how you came to be here but I'm getting quite tired with this. I get the impression you're not here for idle chatter, so what do you want, Raiko?"

His voice got increasingly louder as he spoke that last sentence, then quieted down slowly.

[lawful_evil]

Jesara - Medical Facility : Basement 3

Jesara watches the doctors do their thing and then finally lower the woman into the bacta tank. Awh, nothing fun.

After they dip her in, the blind woman seems to zone out. Maybe they medicated her.... The doctor checks she is stable and then leaves. Once she is alone with the patient, Jesara goes over and accesses her medical records.

Interesting. She isn't one of those humans after all. Miraluka? Hm.. they all look alike. She pauses in her examination of the records to go over and peer into the tank with her big Mon Calamari eyes. Huh? I wonder what the difference is. All the parts I can see look human enough.

[Nowhere Girl]

Salina Jax (http://www.myth-weavers.com/sheets/view.php?id=35504)
- Basement 1, by the turbolift

She pauses, as though considering the question, although her body language is virtually nonexistent -- always very still, is Salina. "Knowledge is a kind of power, in its own fashion perhaps as great as the ability to wield the Force."

Another long pause.

"Mostly, I study, and I train," she says, answering the question finally.

Then her eyes flicker up to meet his, locking gazes with him, once again boring into him with that intense, penetrating stare. "What do you think it means to be free?"

[TheGreatJabu]

Antos Mereck - Instruction Hall near turbolift, Basement 1

Antos recoils a small amount. Between his raised eyebrows and bewildered eyes, he bears the look of a person who has just been swatted in the face with a dirty sock; not hurt or irritated - just surprised, uncomfortable, and somewhat confused. "...Excuse me, ma'm? I'm...not sure you're asking the right person. Perhaps one of those students with their noses stuck in a datapad would be more appropriate. Philosophy isn't exactly one of my strongest subjects, ma'm."

Mereck is genuinely perplexed by the question, and after a moment his curiosity manages to get the better of him once again. It'll be the death of him one day. "Why even ask me, ma'm?"

[Fredricus]

Raiko

Raiko grinned at the impatient Zendra

"You've been most usefull" he smiled before returning in to the shadows.

Most usefull... he thought as he walked the corridors.

[Cazziuz]

Kraygor - outside the turbolift in basement 2.

Kraygor noticed the rising voices in the room he just left, and he'd probably taken the stairs if the turbolift hadn't arrived at that very moment.

Whew. Never thought I'd actually like to avoid a fight.
He stepped into the turbolift and pushed the buttons that would take him to basement 1.

[Faithdreamer]

Hana - Kraygor's Turbolift

There was a faint scent crowding the turbolift - water lilies. It was the cleaner he used on those glossy purple robes almost as soft as his pale skin. Ghost white hair lounged on either shoulder in artful contrast. “Hey."
Strange how they kept forgetting he was there.

[Nowhere Girl]

Salina Jax (http://www.myth-weavers.com/sheets/view.php?id=35504)
- Basement 1, by the turbolift

A small, almost imperceptible shrug. "A fresh perspective."

She looks away, staring down the hallway, her expression turning slightly distant.

"'The Force shall free me.' That's the last line of the Code," she says slowly, softly.

"If freedom is the goal, then knowing the meaning of freedom must certainly be important. Don't you think so?"

[ShadowyFigure]

Danza Maran - Lightsaber Training Ground -

Walking off Danza quickly changes his mind. His meditation could come later but there was something he wished to improve. His skill with the lightsaber was, well clumsy and if Danza were to get anywhere towards his goal he wished to improve. That and... He wanted a reason to go in the bacta tank and it was in the droid instructor he would find this.

Walking in Danza presses a button on a nearby console to request training then sits in the middle of the training ground. Lightsaber in hand ready for combat.

[Cazziuz]

Kraygor - Basement 2, by the turbolift.

A bit startled, Kraygor replies "hey".
He takes a good look at the man in front of him, then asks "have I met you before? You seem familiar".
Kraygor is a young human man. He is average height for a human, and he has short dark hair. He is well built, not very muscular, but clearly not weak either. His eyes are as dark as his skin, and his clothes are not the robes supplied to all students, but casual clothes made for comfort. His lightsaber hangs at his left hip and he has two datapad pouches hanging in his belt. He moves gracefully and the moment he recovers from the surprise he starts smiling.

[Kaymeera]

"Senators, fellow delegates, in response to this direct threat to the Republic, mesa propose, that the Senate give immediately Emergency Powers to the Supreme Chancellor" -Jar Jar Binks, hammering the final nail on his own coffin.

Vykan Zendra - The common room

Zendra's fingers immediately stopped drumming, as he frowned at Raiko's words. He watched as the four-armed alien progressed back into the shadows and left the room.

Thoroughly confused, the Umbaran remained seated, wondering where the Mandalorian woman had gone.

[Faithdreamer]

Hana – Kraygor’s Turbolift

“Nope. Going up?” Wrapped in his clothes Hana had a hard time blending in. Even a busy droid could understand why it was easy for him to stand out when he pulled his hood down. There was the Heterochromia iridis, one overcast gray eye and an eerily innocent brown one. Hana wasn’t exactly an albino but Hoth’s icy tundra had a close match. He looked as old as a sixteen year-old mostly because he was sixteen years old. More importantly, he looked more girly than girls did. Everyone knew looks could be deceiving. Or else they were just what they looked like.
Kraygor, smirk or smile.

[Raven T.]

Drupada Taipo Basement 1, Archives

Drupada decided that education was the call for the rest of the day and began looking at various holovids, focusing on old saber techniques and how the masters of the past fought. He needed something that would go with his dexterity and intelligence. Several styles jumped out at him, but none were sufficient to meet his needs. The old ways are going out the door; as I mentioned to the others. The new guard must take hold...and perhaps that means that the old styles of combat must also be put aside in this instance. I have the opportunity to create a new order, one that has the rational thinking of the Jedi and the unfettered strength of the Sith. This order will eclipse both groups and fight for the common man...we will not practice deceit or false pacifism. No, this new order will be greater than anything the galaxy has ever seen. It will instill stability and more permanent government than this New Republic could ever offer.

Yes...it will.

[EvilWalks]

Beskreiga Ordo - The Commons and briefly, her own little world

As the mandalorian worked on her blaster carbine, she listened and occasionally looked up, to observe the sith students. To understand the early years of the mind that had defeated her...of the minds that taught her...of the minds who would undouptably use her services and manipulate her into doing her bidding after her training with those minds where over.

In recent years, the Mandalorians had suffered a string of defeats...but none of them, except maybe the ending battle of the Wars, had effected her quite like the loss her clanship, The Jagi, had endured at the hands of the Sith. Nothing had quite been as gained or revealed from such a loss...nothing like that defeat.

She had learned that the Sith, the people her Clans had cursed since the time of Mandalore the Indomitable, where yet again, alive in the Galaxy...They where almost mandalorian in their survival tenacity...perhaps even more so, since they had defeated the Jagi when it was at it's best.

When the Mandalorians and her brought the fight to boarding party, they found their blasters of little use...even the sharpshooting of her Uncle Jeedo's advanced sniping system had only a 30% kill ratio...which was far different from his average of 80%. Some blaster bolts where even deflected back at them, and they had lost Habuk to his own twin blaster's fire, and Jhula had found herself stunned by only the virtue of her thick and heavy armor.

Things got only worse when they descended into melee. The Sith troops wielded swords that sundered all but the strongest of durasteel alloy blades...and their leader, a Dark Jedi, used a crimson blade to sunder all but the few made of Mandalorian Iron, Phrik or Cortosis. Beskreiga herself, had found herself forced to fight with nothing but her combat gloves and wits, but even then the Dark Knight was more then a match for her.

Perhaps it was at this time, that the Dark Jedi had seen something in her...or perhaps he had always known from the moment that their ship had exited their leap jump from lightspeed and ambushed the Sith vessel. Or perhaps, it was just his usual tactic to toy with his prey, even as they fought in futile effort...whatever it was, he had defeated her the same, even at one point, disabling his red lightsaber,and drawing a smaller blade, as if to welcome Beskreiga into fighting closer...which she did, and payed for it with the scar that went across her left cheek, as well as small hole in the weak points of her armor, which the Sith had spotted or sensed, and manipulated her effortlessly into making an opening which he exploited...something she also payed for, with a scar that went across her lower ribs and torso area.

Even as she was bleeding, demoralized, and all other fighting had been subdued with the other commandos forced into surrender, the Sith still encouraged her...goading her...feeding her frustration and anger....manipulating her into continue fighting...as to if to see, how far she could and would go, even after all was lost...and go she had. She could feel the burst of aggression and adrenaline that surged through her muscles...the second wind fueled by negative emotion...she could feel the Dark Side of the force, compelling her to attack the man. To kill the man in a storm of hatred. To drain the life from his body with her hands.

She also had learned of the power of the dark side, for she enraged fists and strikes finally opened up the Dark Jedi's defenses, and she got a single strike in. A punch, directly to the Dark Jedi's windpipe, which crushed it.

The Dark Jedi promptly ended his experiment, by force slamming Beskreiga against the walls and into unconsciousness, and when the young mandalorian had come to, he was talking with her Uncle Jeedo who was also her clanship's representative. The subject where terms of surrender, which were simple. Don't attack the Sith, don't let anyone else know of their return, and finally...the trade of Beskreiga for all of their lives.

Before that moment in time, Beskreiga had never wondered why things always seemed to be easier for her to do, then other mandalorians of comparable experience and training. Her shots with a blaster or the Jagi's turrets where always timed and well aimed, and they almost always went exactly where she wanted them to. Her sparing combat in the battle ring, had always been beyond intuitive, and it was if she had the ability to read her opponent's thoughts or have glimpses of the near future that allowed her to time her attacks perfectly to unbalance her opponent or catch them off guard. For young woman of barely 17 years then, she was stronger, faster and more durable then her peers, all reasons which made her a favored daughter of Clan Ordo. She had never questioned it, never pondered the reasons behind her natural abilities...never at any time before the fight with the Dark Jedi, who now stood there, explaining to her closest living relative, that she had a power like the Jedi, or the Sith. That she, could use the force to the same degree as the Dark Jedi who had so easily defeated an entire clan of Mandalorian warriors.

It was then that her mind began working...formulating a rather short sighted, but highly driven plan. The Sith wanted her. They wanted to train her. And she would accept.

The reasoning behind it had seemed so simple at the time...but she had been in the throes of defeat and hatred. Her choice had been one of anger and revenge against the Sith, for their humiliating defeat...but as she had left her clanship in the Sith transport, her mandalorian code returned, and she recalled a mantra of war. Never hate your enemies...it only breeds bias of judgment, which in a battle will kill you. She needed another reason to be where she was...to do what she had to do. Some rock of insight to which she could hold on to and avoid being sucked up into the storm of Sith culture so she could preserve her mandalorian ways...

...perhaps one day, it would come to her.


Beskreiga collapsed the stock of her carbine, closed the paneling, and rechecked the sights one last time, before holstering the compact blaster. Just as she reached for her cup of Caff again though, she looked up and scanned the room, and found the Umbaran duelist, Vykan Zendra, walking towards. "Sithsblood." She muttered under her breath as she looked around for a place to make a tactical retreat to...but the room had suddenly gotten rather full as more students returned from their morning meditations.

There would be no running this time. No avoiding it. Mr. Cloak-of-Feathers would have to just be faced and dealt with...hopefully, not with her blaster or sword though...she had just cleaned those. Clearing her throat and stiffling a sigh, she decided to greet him, so the entire conversation would not be on his terms at least. "Zendra...come back from the depths early I see. What's wrong...forget your fusion torch and debilitating fear of the dark? Or do you need someone to stand behind when blind witches start flinging bolts of energy from their fingers?"

[Kaymeera]

"Are you An angel? I'm just kidding. That's the worst line I've ever used. Hope some poor kid doesn't start using it." - Atton Rand

Vykan Zendra

Vykan watches as the Mandalorian woman approached. He smiles at her address, slowly taking off his goggles and laying them on the table, revealing black pupils which, as they were exposed to the light, shrunk rapidly to a relatively imperceptible size. He blinks once or twice during the process, his eyes slowly adjusting before turning back up to her. Looking her directly in the eyes, he replied, talking slowly, his voice deep.

"Claws out today, as always, I see. I suppose you think I've earned it for one reason or the other. To answer your question, it's more of the latter. That hurt me a fair bit more than it should have."

He runs his finger along the burn mark on his right arm once more before He turning away, collecting something from the inside of his robes and laying it on the table.

"Nevertheless, the day was mine. I live to triumph again."

The blindfold, still knotted as it were on the Miraluka's head, though visibly torn from the side, where Zendra had ripped it off, lay on the table. He stares at it for a moment, before turning back to the Mandalorian.

"We haven't been acquainted, still."

[TheGreatJabu]

Antos Mereck - Instruction Hall by the turbolift, Basement 1

Antos continues to pay attention, but on the inside he is gradually ceasing to listen. So she's on about the Force. They always are.


Salina Jax (http://www.myth-weavers.com/sheets/view.php?id=35504)


"If freedom is the goal, then knowing the meaning of freedom must certainly be important. Don't you think so?"

Once the woman has finished, Mereck replies respectfully (and dryly). "Ma'm, the rank-and-file aren't indoctrinated with this Sith Code. The troops have their own reasons for joining; 'ideals' are generally quite low on that list. For the men and women like myself who don't feel the Force, the Sith are just a means to an ends."

Antos hated to leave a job undone, however. He felt that his reply wasn't actually answering the question he had been posed. What the hell. Let her pull your strings one more time. "Since you asked, though..." He glances down at the ground blankly for a few moments as he gathers his thoughts. When he has comes up with his response, he smirks sardonically at himself for a moment. By the time he looks back up to reply to the woman, his expression is hard as a rock and cold as steel.

"A word like 'freedom' gets thrown around all the time as one of those feel-good concepts. Strange how people never seem to appreciate it when they have it, but once it's gone they decry its loss. Almost as if it doesn't matter until it no longer exists. Truth is, ma'm, that's why I see freedom as a void. A non-entity defined only by its opposite. Freedom exists merely as a degree of measuring the lack of constraint, the lack of control. Amazing how the more 'free' a person is, the more they tend to impose on the freedoms of others. Every single person in the galaxy is scrambling to gratify their own wants and needs with little regard for those around them. It's why conflicts happen. There's another term that describes such a condition. Entropy. The less order you have, the more things break down. A certain degree of 'freedom' needs to exist to prevent stagnation, but it shouldn't be allowed to run rampant. Ultimately, there must be control."

His speech was very smooth and deliberate until the very last line. His tone, volume, or inflection did not change, but there was a tangible difference in the intensity with which he spoke. His appearance yields no clues, as during his reply his posture began to adopt the same cold, precise bearing that adorned his face. "There's your fresh perspective, ma'm." he adds flatly.

[LongVin]

Renato Benso - Archives

Continuing to prowl the archives he finally finds another soul also searching the archives for knowledge. Approaching Drupado he announces his presence "It is good to see another seeker of knowledge here. Too often have our fellows neglected the teachings of the past." Renato smirks as he finishes the line.

Though he could tell that Drupado was not a true seeker of knowledge. He seemed to be wholly concerned with only matters of the blade and not the thousands of scholarly articles which were contained within the walls of the archive.

[Raven T.]

Drupada Taipo

"Knowledge is power." Drupada spoke harshly only because he was being disturbed. "I sense you do not approve of the subject matter I have chosen, but it is important to shore up what you DON'T know. I have already steeped myself in galactic history, lore, and tactics...now I have been searching for a way to better myself physically." Turning off the recorder, he glares some at Renato. "But I have finished looking into this. There is obviously something on your mind; spill it."

[Nowhere Girl]

Salina Jax (http://www.myth-weavers.com/sheets/view.php?id=35504)
- Basement 1, by the turbolift

A small smile.

"I thought philosophy wasn't one of your stronger subjects," Salina replies, still in her customary even tone. "It seems you had an answer in you after all."

Apparently satisfied, she abruptly turns to begin walking down the hall, never bothering to wave or offer any kind of verbal farewell.

(I'm stopping here to leave Antos the option of either trying to stop Salina or just let her wander off, as left to her own devices, she's definitely going to do the latter. Once I know his reaction, I can make my next post. :smallsmile: )

[Cazziuz]

Kraygor - Basement 2, at the turbolift

Kraygor blinked, his smile fading as if he didn't understand the question.
Then he realized what Hana had said, and his friendly smile returned.
"I'm not sure. Since we got the day off I wanted to make some acquaintances among the students".
He extends his right hand saying "the name's Kraygor".
I hope this guy isn't like the creepy violent one. That guy would probably chop my hand off, then demand I pay him a few hundred credits for the experience Kraygor thought, barely maintaining his smile as he extended his hand.

[LongVin]

Renato Benso

Renato shrugs. "I guess what you say is truth. It is best to be well rounded."

He takes a seat, "I always have many things on my mind. But for now, I believe it is necessary as you put it to shore up our weaknesses. Would you care to put these new techniques to a test in the duelling chamber? A friendly competition to improve our mutual skill against those who devote themselves completely to the arts of single combat and know nothing of intellectual pursuits."

[Raven T.]

Drupada Taipo

What is it with everyone and their desire to fight with me today? What is this; beat on the old man to feel better about yourself day? "I suppose, if you are that desperate to fight someone, I can oblige you. We fight until one of us surrenders.

"Much can be learned through combat, as well." This time, he was taking a page from the Echani. Maybe he should have indulged the Kel Dor, but some things can be put off for another day. The true measure of a person is what they display on the battlefield, not what they say.

[LongVin]

Renato Benso

Nodding, "That is acceptable."

Leaving his seat he turns towards the exit, "I have to always remind myself to practice my martial skills. Atleast this way I will not be up against one of those cretins who wish to actually attempt to kill me."

[Raven T.]

Drupada Taipo

"Indeed." Though, I suspect it would be easy enough to drop you if I wished. However, one of the core tenants of my order is that betraying the trust of another member is punishable by death. Only a fool kills his allies, even if they are not as such yet. Drupada led Renato toward the dueling pit slowly, taking care to remove the bulky cloak he always wore over his robes...so dark brown that they are almost black...and hang it gingerly on a nearby rack.

With the customary flick of the wrist, his saber was in his hand and lit, casting it's violet light on the floor. "When you're ready; I will not attack an unprepared opponent in a sparring situation." Looking inward, he dropped into a new stance, radically different than his normal one. His right foot dropped back, as if firing a rifle. Knees bent, his blade hung loosely from his right hand, making a 45 degree angle from the floor. It was fluid and lent itself to a quick counterstrike.

[EvilWalks]

Beskreiga Ordo

The young mandalorian followed the umbaran's eyes to the blindfold and the goggles. He had taken them off, despite his obvious sensitivity to the surrounding environment...but why? To show that he would not hide from her behind steel and glass? To try and empathize with her by making the appearance of lowering his defenses? Or was it just irritability from wearing them for too long?

It unsettled Beskreiga not because of the questions, but because of the possible answers. She was usually so good at reading people, especially those with concealed or partially concealed faces...most Mandalorians had that ability, a natural side-effect of working closely with each other while wearing their full armour. The Umbaran was difficult to read however, no matter if his goggles were on or off...his emotions where so alien and the usual arrogance and self-importance that he held himself with (at least when in concerns to dueling and other such things), served as an effective emotional wall.

Or maybe it was more simple. Maybe she was just loosing her edge...and the possibility of such a loss, is perhaps what unsettled her the most...almost to the point of fear.

"No we haven't been...acquainted yet, and I don't see a reason why. I am just here to learn and train, not socialize with...other students..." The last two words she had to give some thought too...after all, she considered herself apart from the other sith...not necessarily above, but definitely different...or so maybe she hoped.

"But perhaps maybe the so-called Best Duelist out of all the Students has for some reason, time to do just that...socialize. Fine then, my name is Beskreiga Ordo."

[LongVin]

Renato Benso

Removing a pair of leather gloves from his pocket, he carefully slides them on testing to make sure they won't fall down in the course of combat. Turning sideways in a fencers stance to limit his profile and make a smaller target he unclips the lightsaber and ignites the blade, holding the handle close to his body with one hand and the blade pointed straight at Drupado.


Studying his opponent and his stance he recognizes Drupado's stance for what it is, a feint. Designed to lure his opponent into a false sense of security and go for an immediate "killing" blow. "I am ready"

Renato comes in quick with an a exploratory thrust, not committing fully but neither is he performing an action that could be ignored. He was feeling Drupado out, trying to see what his style and technique to find a weakness.

[roll0]

[Faithdreamer]

Hana – Kraygor’s Turbolift

Curiosity, it was a thoughtful expression on his face. He wasn’t getting lost in ideas. He simply sank in a pool of liquid contemplation. “Pleased to make you an acquaintance.”
His hand was patient. Leisurely crossing the gap between them just so it could brush the other apprentice’s fingertips; it wasn’t in any hurry getting back either. He sat down the same way, held his knees close to his chest. Kraygor got to wonder too while he looked down at Hana. Was it the glow of merriment behind his eyes, the reflection off the light shining down from the ceiling?

“Call me Imp Rest.”

[Cazziuz]

Kraygor - Basement 2, by the turbolift.

"Imp, huh?" Kraygor stood, simply looking at the... well he wasn't sure exactly what he was looking at, but it seemed friendly enough.
Whew, I think I got lucky. Kraygor's smile became even friendlier, or maybe it was just sincere now? It was difficult to tell.
"Well, nice to met you mr. Rest. I have a feeling that we'll be able to get along just fine".
Kraygor turned to the control panel, asking Imp in the progress "now it's my turn to ask. What floor are you going to?"

[Kaymeera]

"Actually it was - the crystal was redder than a laigrek's eye" - The Jedi Exile, possibly.

Vykan Zendra

Zendra smiled slightly as he noted the fleeting look of distress the Mandalorian displayed as he removed his visors.

The Mandalorian woman had struck a particular cord with him. She was burdened such a great sense of honor, and a consistent self-expectancy to stand tall but alone.

He had seen it before with the other recruits, often with those who thought themselves more superior, often truly trying to compensate for an obvious lack of skill or merely trying to emulate their own personal philosophy on absolute Sith ideology in attempt to earn favor with their masters.

The Mandalorian sought neither. Having witnessed her earlier duel, she obviously, knew much of close-quarters combat. Her demeanor and mannerism suggested considerable personal pride.

There is a thin line between pride and arrogance, but pride, is how they both stood out .. and apart. It's why he respected her and that's why he'd offer her the respect of meeting her eyes with his.

The Umbaran nodded at the introduction.

"Vykan Zendra. And no, I don't usually take the time to .. (he smiled at her choice of phrase) socialize, with all the recruits; only those who strive to truly better themselves. The ones who show the most potential. The ones I truly believe I can benefit from their experience and company, and they from mine."

[EvilWalks]

Beskreiga Ordo ~ The Commons

"To benefit from? What could you possibly hope to gain from me?" Beskreiga asked in a matter-of-fact manner. "I'm still having problems wielding a bloody lightsaber, nor can I fire lightning from my finger tips, or choke a man from 30 meters."

The Mandalorian finished her second mug of Caf, and set it down between her and Vykan. "I can't lift objects much larger then this without physical or technological contact. I'm not much for the mysteries, or the philosophies either....so again, how could you benefit from me?"

There were actually many possibilities to that question, now that Beskreiga thought about it...but she didn't say anything. She wanted to see what Vykan thought, or at least, what Vykan would come up with to conceal what he thought. It was unlikely that she was fishing for compliments...No..there where better places to do that then a Sith Academy...and besides, she wasn't that receptive to compliments usually. They only reminded her of the overcompensations she had made in failed attempts circumvent her other failures.

No...this wasn't about her, this was about Vykan. The Sith duelist with the feather cloak, and his offer of...was it partnership?

Only the next few moments could possibly tell.

[Caewil]

Csaba Obscura

Her wound had been clean, she remembers. The frictionless blade of a lightsaber usually leaves only burns but sometimes opportunistic bacteria could find a home there. Just to be safe, the facility's medical droids had removed the charred tissue from her abdomen, replacing it with synthflesh.

Csaba concentrates on her own body, focusing on her injuries. She does not will her flesh to heal. She does not gently nudge with the Force. Instead, she commands it, as she would a subordinate. Csaba can feel the blood in her veins, the slow beating of her heart. As she recklessly burns her body's reserves to fuel the hasty healing her pulse speeds up until her heart races. Csaba's fear tells her to stop, but her anger pushes her on further. She draws on the power of the dark, tapping on the hatred that she could feel within the walls of the Sith academy, and now even more strongly within her own heart. I will not be kept down, she seethes.

Less than an hour later, the miraluka emerges from the tank, shivering in the cold of the medical bay. Her skin is as even paler than usual but otherwise shows no traces of scarring. As Csaba rapidly dons her robes, she considers her next course of action. Perhaps I had best show myself to the other Sith again.

[Kaymeera]

"How am I to know the good side from the bad?" - Luke Skywalker

Vykan Zendra ~ The Common Room

The Umbaran smiles widely at the Mandalorian.

"Ha. You judge yourself by comparison to them? They are like mindless bantha; they scurry around, searching for strife and then toddle directly into it without a second thought. In time, with training, you will be on par with them. I have seen you fight, you will match and succeed them quickly."

The Umbaran's tone quietens, becoming more serious.

"No, you have something about you that they can never achieve. They are Sith to the heart and core. They have learned to excel through sole dependence on the Force. They listen with it, see with it, think with it and act on it. It makes them far superior in many fields, but it blinds them completely in others."

"But you. You have seen strife where they have not, and excelled on skill and talent alone, and, more importantly, you relished it. I see the pride with which you walk, with which you fight, with which you arrange your armaments, with which you have tailored your very robes(he nods towards her clothing). You are intelligent, tactical, skilled and motivated. As such, can achieve far more than they ever possibly can."

A half-smile slowly forms on his face.

"But you know all this already, but maybe you merely needed it said aloud."