Faction A Jedi You Will Be [Knighting Ceremony]

[Briana Sal-Soren]

​

Wearing: Red Robe
Equipment: Lightsaber
Location: Jedi Temple, Hall of Knighthood, Coruscant
Tag: Brandyn Sal-Soren , Valery Noble @Any others who'd like to join

As a child growing up on Naboo, it had been instilled in Briana by her mother, the once Handmaiden and former Jedi, that one’s appearance was their first line of defense. To be assembled with deliberation, as was their way, their custom. Growing up, every article of clothing she’d ever worn for public appearances, every tightly pinned hairdo, all of it, was planned down to the minute detail. It should have come as no surprise then, that her mother had planned for this, too.

Briana stared down at the traditional Nabooian Jedi robe that’d been brought to her a few days prior, now laid out on her cot. The Karlini silk used in its creation had been in her family for generations, passed to all who called themselves Jedi in the Ee’everwest line, dyed a deep crimson with elegant imagery sewn along the shoulders and back.

While the colors and embroidery would likely mean not to many of those in attendance, to Briana, the message it carried was unmistakable.

Fingers traced the delicate embroidery that would have been lovingly stitched by her mother’s own hand some months prior in preparation of this eventuality, the golden thread weaving images of the Goddess Shiraya among a sea of Millaflowers and Queen’s Heart, the subject of several classic Naboo legends. Hers was a symbol of protection and honor. But, she wasn’t there for Briana’s safety as the eldest Sal-Soren moved into this next phase of life. She was there as an outward promise of her obligations, a reminder of her duty as a Jedi. That she would defend and protect those who could not defend or protect themselves, just as their patron Goddess shielded her children in an all-encompassing embrace.

The deep red of the coloring carried its own meanings as well. A representation of everything Naboo believed in: courage, passionate idealism, and safeguarding the sanctity of all life in whatever form that took. The very core tenants of its culture and heritage and what the Ee’everwest’s had strove to embody, now stained to the ceremonial robes that would adorn her.

A faint whirring sound from the corner of the room drew her attention, reminding her that it was time to get ready. Briana chewed lightly on the inside of her cheek, “I don’t suppose you’ve heard anything from my father or mother, yet?” she inquired of the little R2 Unit. Brandyn had received word from Blaire a few days prior that their mother hadn’t been seen, nor could she be reached through the usual communication channels. Her father had also gone radio silent, with no clues into his whereabouts.

Their last conversation played over in her mind, particularly his expression, the handsome man that never stopped smiling had been replaced by something tired, broken. Her feelings told her there was something wrong then, but her logical mind had waved them away.

That same feeling of dread that she couldn’t begin to define, gripped her, watching as the droids blue sensor lit up before his dome shook back and forth, as if to mimic a humanoid shaking their head, beeping mournfully. “That’s alright,” she said with a half-hearted smile, willing away unshed tears of frustration and making the necessary change in her emotional composure as she went to get dressed, “Thanks anyway.”

-------------------------------------------------------------​

As the doors to the chamber were opened, a swell of pride washed away any lingering traces of anxiety as she entered the Hall of Knighthood, catching a glimpse of her brother Brandyn, garbed in the traditional Nabooian robes, the golden threading glinting from the dapple of light that shone in the center of the otherwise pitch-black room. With paced, purposeful strides, Briana ascended the long hall to join her brother near the dais where Valery stood waiting, recognizing the presence of several other Force signatures in the room. Though she couldn’t yet see her friends, it warmed her to the core to know that they were there. That they would stand with them on this day.

Each one a vibrant, shining beacon in the darkness.

When she finally reached the center of the circle, Briana sank to her knees on the stone flooring beside Brandyn, passing a brief glance to him as the years of all their training, their perils, and the obstacles they’d faced to get here, flashed before her - the reality of how far they'd come, hitting her for the first time.

Then, slowly, her cerulean eyes turned, chin tilting to gaze up at the indomitable figure of her Master, Valery, standing before them both, the woman who'd become such an integral part of her life these last few years. Without her inspirational teachings, and the careful guidance of many others, Briana doubted she would have made it this far; so much had changed since that fateful night when she and Brandyn first ran away to follow the path of the Jedi, altering their lives and the course of their path forever.

And yet, despite all they’d come up against, and the hardships that would undoubtedly lie ahead, Briana looked forward to the future with a spark of hope blossoming within her heart.

​

 

[Valery Noble]

NJO Temple

​

Outfit: Factory Link
Appearance: Link
Weapons: Lightsaber
Tag: Briana Sal-Soren Brandyn Sal-Soren | Open to Jedi

Valery stood within the hall of knighthood, drawn completely into her own mind while her eyes stared ahead, focused on nothing in particular. She had been here so many times before, both to knight Padawans and to attend the ceremonies of others, but it was especially when her own Padawans were about to take the next step, that she found herself looking back to reflect on the entire journey.

From meeting both Briana and Brandyn on Ossus, where the siblings surprisingly learned they were going to be trained by the same Master, to sharing so many good and difficult moments with them as they developed into Jedi Knights. Her Padawans had always felt like more than just students to her, and they were no different.

She would never forget how Briana offered her comfort when she struggled with the apparent loss of Kahlil Noble , and she would cherish their little moments of competition in training and games outside of their duties forever. Brandyn, she had spent less time with, as he focused on investigating the New Way. But the missions and training moments between them still would hold a special place in her heart.

Soon enough, the opening of the doors snapped Valery back into reality, and with a proud smile, she watched them walk over. They had changed so much, but even through all of their experience and strength, she still saw the young troublemakers she decided to train all those years ago.

"It is good to see you both," she said, while she waited for the doors to close so the ceremony could begin.

 

[Brandyn Sal-Soren]

​

Wearing: Traditional Nabooian Knighthood Attire
Equipment: Standard green lightsaber
Location: NJO temple
Tag: Valery Noble Briana Sal-Soren @Any others


Brandyn stood looking at his reflection, his mind replaying memories. He had been young, maybe four or five, when had first seen the black heirloom garment that he now wore.

As a child he had marveled at the softness of the karlini silk. His mother had informed him it was the traditional garb for Nabooian men that were knighted as Jedi. Brandyn remembered running his hand over the stuff, white square edged collar, and the leather tassels hanging off black leather belt. To an idealistic young boy it was the attire of a hero.

Now as a young man his fingers traced the new addition, the golden needlework of his beloved mother. Upon his back was the image of their families favoured deity, Shiraya. The beams of light from the crescent moon in Shiraya's lifted hands crossed over his left shoulder. The lines of stitches then morphed into the image of the animal from his naming day benediction, the bursa. It was not lost on Brandyn that the animal, representing valour, justice and serenity, sat over his heart.

He glanced at the lit screen of his datapad the rested on the poorly made bed. Five unanswered messages to his mother showed on the screen. Uneasiness settled over him. Blaire's report left him hollow on a day he had dreamed of since his earliest memories.

"She wouldn't miss this day on purpose," he muttered quietly.

One last glance was offered to his appearance. He had to leave now, or he would be late.

---

In all the childhood dreams he had had of this day, Briana had never been present. And yet, there she was. Becoming a Jedi Knight at the same moment as he. This was a moment that he would have once recoiled at, defied the moment in favour of 'being his own man', but now he was simply proud. Proud of her. Who would have thought that Briana would ever become a Jedi? It would surprise no one that she was better a being a Jedi than Brandyn, but that she would be one at all. No acquaintance from their youth would have believed you.

And then his Master, Valery. She had been a guide to him, but he felt that there was much more she could have taught him should he have not taken up the adventure of pursuing The New Way. A lump of guilt formed in his throat. Perhaps he had been too foolhardy in running into that mission. But his work there had warranted this promotion, so it was of the Force?

His mind drifted to his father, but did not linger lest his emotions take a turn for the worse. And then his mother, her disappearance. He could not allow himself to linger on her absence.

When Briana knelt behind him, he cast her a sidelong glance and muttered, "You look surprisingly respectable in that get up."

His shoulder would surely have a bruise after any future private moment the siblings could share.

"Master Noble," Brandyn said with a tip of his head in greeting before offering a wry smile, "are you sure you aren't about to make the biggest mistake ever in promoting us? Me....mostly?"

​

 

[Lossa Aureus]

Location: Denon
Equipment: Danger Jacket, Outfit, Discreet Hearing Enhancer - Left Ear, Long Handled Double Lightsaber, Concealed Sling Bag
Tags: Briana Sal-Soren Brandyn Sal-Soren Valery Noble

Lossa had silently crept into the area leading to the ceremony. Waited for the two to leave as she watched from afar.

Her nose healed finally she could at least ditch the bacta bandage, thankful as she kept her face close to the edge of the door to see them go.

She watched quietly from the entrance as they walked along, enjoying the moment of their's from a distance. A joyous thing all their own in some ways to be shared with those present.

Valery cast her eyes to the door, and Lossa frowned.

"So much for watching." Muttered words, slinking inside to bother her cousins.

<You two nervous?> A very weak telelepathy directed at them.

 

[Dreidi Xeraic]

Location: Hall of Knighthood
Outfit: Jedi Outfit
Tag: Briana Sal-Soren | Brandyn Sal-Soren | Valery Noble


Briana and Brandyn were both getting promoted to Jedi Knight today. It was a big event, the two had worked hard from what Dreidi could see and she was certain that they both deserved the promotion to Knight. She had gotten to know both of them to some extent, there was still a want to know them better and to be able to call them both friends but the chances hadn't come up to work with either of them on missions or to just hang out. Perhaps in the future that might change, one could only for such a chance. Dreidi also had thoughts on her own promotion to Jedi Knight, she had to work out the details with Asaraa, her Master on that but she did want to be a Jedi Knight and her skills were improving a lot. Helped to be around others that she could train hard with and push herself.

Her outfit was nowhere near as fancy or elegant as Briana's as she walked in. Dreidi had simply thrown on her usual Jedi attire that she wore around the temple, unsure how formal or traditional she should look. Having spent a lot of her childhood on Naboo, Dreidi recognised some of the decorations on Briana's outfit as traditional for Naboo and the material might have been as well if she thought about it. Dreidi wouldn't even know what she would wear for her Knighting. She was born on Kashyyyk and lived there for a few years, lived and trained on Naboo for just as long if not longer and is now just roaming around and spending time on Coruscant. There wasn't really family heritage that she wanted to recognise, Yuroic had no family ties, her mother had Zorren heritage but Dreidi was not comfortable sharing that even if she was Zorren herself now.

For now, she shook off the thoughts of her own ceremony, that was a ways away. Right now was Briana's and Brandyn's day and they deserved the full attention of everyone. Shifting so she could get a good view and watch, Dreidi kept her hands behind her to prevent fidgeting and watched them. Smile etched on her lips as she was pleased for them both.

 

[Valery Noble]

NJO Temple

​

Outfit: Factory Link
Appearance: Link
Weapons: Lightsaber
Tag: Briana Sal-Soren Brandyn Sal-Soren Lossa Aureus Dreidi Xeraic | Open to Jedi

"I'm certain," Valery said after Brandyn had joined them and asked his question. The decision to Knight one of her Padawans was no easy one for her to take, both because of the standards she set for those under her tutelage, and because of personal reasons. Valery had never been particularly good at letting go, and to see her Padawans grow was a great joy, but it was never easy to decide when it was time for the next step.

She always knew it was a day that would eventually come, but it also felt comfortably far away until it was time.

"I've had the pleasure to see you both grow over these last few years, both as Jedi and as a person. Together and alone, you've overcome great obstacles and helped many more people overcome theirs. In spirit and skill, you've grown beyond what we recognize as Jedi Padawans, and for that reason, I've brought you here today to honor the first step of a new journey."

She offered them both a smile, one filled with sincere happiness from them both, as well as a hint of sadness, knowing that it would be a big change to their lives.

Valery then reached for the lightsaber attached to her belt, drew it into her hand, and ignited its violet blade, before raising it up high above the ceremony. First, she brought it down to hover above Briana's left shoulder, before bringing it over to be just above Brandyn's left shoulder. "By the right of the Council."

Her blade shifted to hover above Briana's head before it shifted to sit still above Brandyn's. "By the will of the Force."

Finally, she brought her blade over Briana's right shoulder, and then over Brandyn's. "I dub thee..."

"Knights of the New Jedi Order." ​

 

[Aiden Porte]

Brandyn Sal-Soren Briana Sal-Soren Valery Noble Lossa Aureus Dreidi Xeraic



"Sheesh, why am I so nervous." Aiden whispered as he looked at himself in the mirror for what seemed like the twelfth time already. He was donned in the Jedi armor, wanting to look more professional than the standard Jedi jumpsuit he was usually in. Brandyn and Briana were to be knighted today, and he couldn't have been happier for the pair. Brandyn was his best friend and Briana was just as important to him. He considered them both family and he loved them dearly. He couldn't think of anyone else who deserved the honor today than they did. He left his room and made his way to the ceremony location and he made it just in time.

He took a good glance at the few that he knew that were there, but his primary focus was on the duo at front. The Jedi padawan stood with his hands behind his back and he looked upon them with such pride. Not trying to be condescending but he had seen them in action. Their affinity with the force and the hope they held in their hearts was something of legendary.

"By the right of the Council."

"By the will of the Force."

Aiden cleared his throat and he took a deep breath as his smile couldn't get any bigger. His eyes began to water as he took another deep breath. Then a tear rolled down his cheek.

"I dub thee..."

"Knights of the New Jedi Order."

Applause erupted from the crowd and Aiden was clapping as loud as he could. A few whoops from the crowd and Aiden especially could be heard. The new Jedi Knights were going to do great and amazing things. Aiden believed this with his entire heart. He wiped his tear with the back of his hand as he glanced to his right and Esme Volcaine was staring right at him.

"What?!" Aiden exclaimed. "I'm happy!" He wiped his eyes again and cleared his throat and regained his composure before attempting to move forward. As he would give them both a big hug.

 

[Vizion Trozky]

THE HUNTER-KNIGHT
NEW JEDI ORDER
HALL OF KNIGHTHOOD - JEDI TEMPLE - CORUSCANT
Briana Sal-Soren | Brandyn Sal-Soren | Valery Noble
Lossa Aureus | Dreidi Xeraic | Aiden Porte

Standing here in this hall, observing the ascension of his oldest friend and her brother, it was hard to not feel like some unseen hand made events work out as they had. As if he had returned from the front, just in time for this.

For months he had been absent from the halls and rooms of the Jedi Temple, in fact absent from Coruscant in its entirety, serving on the front lines of the Maw-Alliance conflict. Like Jand Talo , whom he had often linked up with, a litany of faded lines marked him, and his robes had become well-worn. Having run a number of missions with the young Nagai, he couldn't deny that the swordsman's methodical and efficient ways had impressed him; often there was little room for hesitation in the pursuit of a Sith, and there were no reservations whatsoever in the grey-skinned youth. When it came to the Sith, there was nary a reservation in the Brentaalan, either, though there was also no enjoyment in the act; despite this, he could find some kind of peace with the work, knowing the greater purpose it served.

He had only been back in the ecumenopolis just long enough to catch his breath; it had been strange walking into his apartment when he finally returned to it after checking in with the Masters at the temple. Strange, running fingers over the collected dust, finding the sparse space alien and far too quiet. He remained in the apartment long enough to put himself through the fresher and change into something more civilian, only to be surprised to find that his clothes fit different - a look in the mirror, the first time in months that he'd taken any kind of extended observance of himself, revealed just how much he had thinned, gotten lean. Repeated exertion on the battlefield, in hunts, in duels, worked the body in a different manner from the lifting he kept to nigh-religiously as part of his routine, before.

When he'd first arrived on Coruscant, for reasons that no longer plagued him, now. When the two were officially knighted, he couldn't help but smile and feel a small sense of pride at how far they had come, Briana in particular - there was a litany of memories of the girl she had been, both of the good and the bad, but now she stood as a Jedi Knight. He applauded, but he hung back, content to have others go forth and congratulate them, while he looked around at those that had come to support the Sal-Soren Jedi, faces both familiar and new.

Like the pink-skinned girl over there; had the last time he had seen her really been Cato? His own last days as a padawan... more than a year, was it? He shook his head lightly as he returned his gaze to the front.

Crazy times.

 

[Briana Sal-Soren]

Wearing: XoXo
Equipment: Lightsaber
Location: Hall of Knighthood, Coruscant
Tag: Valery Noble , Brandyn Sal-Soren , Lossa Aureus , Dreidi Xeraic , Aiden Porte , Vizion Trozky

While it was tempting to jab her brother in the side, Briana instead heaved a quiet, long-suffering sigh at his barb and kept her gaze pointed forward, biting back on a litany of less-than-kind retorts. A sign of maturity and growth from the girl who’d been prone to hasty reactions in her youth.

Hearing Lossa’s telepathic voice was a surprise, but a welcome one. Briana had long been privy to Lossa’s independent streak since their first meeting on Ossus and knew that her mischievous cousin never did anything unless she wanted to. That she’d made an effort to be present was a gesture not lost on her.

“Who, me? Nervous?” she responded telepathically, with what she hoped came across as mock offense, resisting the urge to smile and peer over her shoulder. “Never.” The truth was quite the opposite, but even though she harbored doubts and uncertainties, Briana felt like she could finally see past them.

As Valery began to speak, plunging ahead with the ceremony, Briana felt her spine stiffen, her heart fluttering within her chest as the heat of the saber came to hover above her shoulder, a phantom weight of fresh responsibilities and expectations bearing down on her. She’d always said she would never find herself here, and in all of her wildest fantasies, she'd never believed she could follow the pathway of the Force and the Jedi. Let alone beside Brandyn. Briana took a steadying breath to breathe out the pressure, then found her footing, rising from the ground as a freshly-minted Knight.

While Briana was not usually one to be overly affectionate, she took the moment to step towards Valery and give her a comforting, familial hug. “Don’t think this means you’ve gotten rid of me,” she quipped, turning just in time to see Aiden as he approached them. Her head tipped, “Now all that whooping and hollering makes sense,” Briana laughed, her arms moving to oblige the congratulatory hug.

 

[Brandyn Sal-Soren]

Equipment: Lightsaber
Location: NJO Temple
Tag: Briana Sal-Soren Valery Noble Aiden Porte Lossa Aureus Dreidi Xeraic Vizion Trozky @Others

The smirk barely dimmed from Brandyn's face the entire time. Confident. Assured in his place here. Brandyn felt confident that Briana was of the same mindset as he. Even as Lossa's words drifted through his mind, he found no guile or sarcasm in response. <Nope. Just eager to get on with the job.>

More than two decades of dreaming, working and doing anything and everything he could to become a Jedi Knight had finally paid off. He was here. The burden of long held dreams rolled from his mind. He was a success and independently of his father at that.

"By the right of the Council."

A council he probably deserved to be in trouble with more than he had, though he appreciated their faith in his now unique skillset.

"By the will of the Force."

Running away from home to join the Jedi. Taking the secret mission to investigate The New Way. Investigating his own father for terrorism. All of it was the will of the Force. And all of it was what had brought him here. Destiny may not be a birthright, but Brandyn still felt born for this moment..

"I dub thee...Knights of the New Jedi Order."

A not so subtle fist pump was offered with the words. Even as he rose, smile spread across his face, Brandyn felt only hope for the future, and the power to forge said hope into some good, something purposeful. His hand briefly rested on his master's shoulder, even as Briana fell into full hug-mode. "Thank you for believing in me," Brandyn said.

Aiden's attack pattern had clearly been set to 'mushy' because his chosen weapon was hugs. Brandyn, for his part, welcomed the embrace and his friend. Aiden had proven himself loyal to friends over institutions. Brandyn's hug was more than just a thank you for the congratulations, but a thank you for keeping my secrets. Necessary secrets, of course.

Pulling from the hug, Brandyn looked at his sister. Just a small amount of moisture collected in his eyes, it was the first true sign of vulnerability from him at this event. "You will undoubtedly be a far great Jedi than I, Briana. And...I for one look forward to you proving me right...again."

 

[Esme Volcaine]

The promotion of some random, yet utterly gorgeous, Jedi was not something that she would have chosen to attend. But AIden was there, that meant she was there. And as the short ceremony commenced, Esme found herself more studying the man that was her target. His emotion in this instance was...unexpected...awkward...and yet, strangely endearing.

He was her target. But he was still...a decent guy, right?

"What?!" Aiden exclaimed. "I'm happy!"

Eyes grew wide, hands came up in defense and a chuckle burst out without it being bid.

"I think its cute!" She said in a whisper-yell.

| Aiden Porte |​

 

[Lossa Aureus]

Location: Denon
Equipment: Danger Jacket, Outfit, Discreet Hearing Enhancer - Left Ear, Long Handled Double Lightsaber, Concealed Sling Bag
Tags: Briana Sal-Soren Brandyn Sal-Soren Valery Noble Aiden Porte Vizion Trozky Dreidi Xeraic Esme Volcaine

The ceremony finished, the Zeltron grinned madly and fished around in her pocket. From her spot in the back, she squinted and counted heads towards her targets. Her eyes darting to the master before returning to Briana and Brandyn.

Her fingers brushed against the objects in question, a moment of panic caused her to visibly pause and count before tugging the jacket taught and producing a cluster of
orbs.

Her hand peeled back, the other yanking pins as she wickedly grinned.

"Good luck to you both!" She howled, arm arcing up and letting loose the little orbs.

One caught just wrong from the force in her palm, forming into a cloud of bright purple glitter around her face.

The other 6 orbs flying in the rough direction of the newly minted knights area with a little too much speed. Lossa cackled all the while, trying to keep the glitter cloud from getting into her eyes with fruitless swatting.

 

[Dreidi Xeraic]

Location: Hall of Knighthood
Outfit: Jedi Outfit
Tag: Briana Sal-Soren | Brandyn Sal-Soren | Valery Noble | Lossa Aureus | Aiden Porte | Esme Volcaine | Vizion Trozky


The ceremony was swift and Master Noble exclaimed the pair as Jedi Knights. Dreidi clapped loudly for the pair, genuinely pleased that they were stepping into their new roles and becoming amazing Jedi. It was an exciting time and Dreidi was sure that closer friends and family would approach the pair first to give their congratulations. Dreidi figured it would be best for her to wait till things simmer down and then offer her personal congratulations and good luck to the future. Looking around, some were already moving in, Aiden being the loudest and most prominent of the group which caused her to chuckle. Aiden was always a goofball and she was not surprised that he was not changing that any time soon.

Hanging around, Dreidi breathed in deeply and thought carefully about the words she wanted to say since she didn't want to stumble or make an error in her congratulations, especially in front of Master Noble, who was an important member of the New Jedi Order. Letting others offer their congratulations, Dreidi stepped forward and smiled to both of them. "I wanted to say well done on making it to Jedi Knight! I am sure you will do great things and sure that you guys will be Masters in no time!" Dreidi gave a quick smile then a step back as to not overcrowd them.

 

[Luric Ee'everwest]

"And so you both do... so you do." he uttered low and under his breath as he stood there, a broad smile painted across his lips.

There, ahead standing with Master Valery Noble , one of the greatest Jedi Masters the Order had ever known, were the two newest to join the ranks of the Jedi Knights. Deserving, in his eyes, the pair of them. He was quite proud of his cousins, after all the family had been through in recent weeks and months. Truly, as the Atrisian Knight looked on, he raised his arms, and began to clap heartily as he began to walk toward the trio. He looked over Briana's shoulder, and nodded respectfully to Valery a moment, before looking back to both his cousins.

Garbed in his custom armor & robes [sans mask], he looked every bit like the Jedi Knight he was. Reaching out, gauntlet-clasped arms rested hands, one upon each of their respective shoulders. Looking over to the rather excitable Aiden Porte , he could not help but let a little chuckle escape.

"It's about time, you two." he said, looking at Briana and letting off a coy wink, before looking to Brandon, and grinning wide, laughing all the long. "Does my heart good, truly. Brandyn Sal-Soren , Briana Sal-Soren ... I can think of no others more deserving the title than you both. Congratulations."

Luric E'eeverwest had always been reserved, yet confidant. Today, he let his guard down. Wasn't every day your cousins get brought into the ranks of the Knights. A good day, indeed, and he wanted them to enjoy the moment. He knew well that there was a long road ahead of them. And they needed to remember they had family they could count on, and friends who stood at the ready for them.

 

[Valery Noble]

NJO Temple

​

Outfit: Factory Link
Appearance: Link
Weapons: Lightsaber
Tag: Briana Sal-Soren Brandyn Sal-Soren @Everybody else| Open to Jedi

With the two Jedi rising as Knights, Valery stood still and watched proudly. There was definitely a hint of sadness in her eyes, but it was completely overshadowed by the joy she felt for them. Still, when Briana wrapped her arms around her, Valery rested her head on the woman's shoulder and held her tightly for just a moment.

Her fiery gaze shifted to Brandyn, who placed a comforting hand on her shoulder, and she immediately felt her eyes tearing up just a little bit.

"Don't think this means you've gotten rid of me,"

Valery snickered, "Oh I know," she said with a grin, before dipping her head to Brandyn, when he showed his gratitude. "I'll always believe that you both can do amazing things. I'm so very proud of you, and I look forward to watching you two grow more. Of course, I'll always be around to help you two with anything."

That was a promise she'd always uphold.

 

[Cybelle Elyance]

Wearing: Armor (Robes)
Equipment: Lightsaber
Location: Jedi Temple
Tag: Brandyn Sal-Soren | Briana Sal-Soren + Jedi Friends [Open to Tag]

Everyone was dressed so nicely.

Cybelle stayed in the back, quiet, and unimportant while her robes let her blend in with the scenery. She'd arrived a little later than most. Fraught, with indecision. This was a place for Jedi and the auburn-haired Hapani wasn't quite sure she counted at the moment. There were a few faces that she recognized. Brandyn Sal-Soren , of course, and Briana Sal-Soren . Every light-sider worth their mettle knew of Valery Noble and how could she forget Dreidi Xeraic from the charity gala?

Her arms crossed beneath her bust as the tops of her shoulders pressed against one of the empty walls in the Hall of Knighthood. Propped up by one booted foot against it, knee bent, just slightly. She recognized obvious nods to Nabooian culture and felt a wistful pang echo in her heart. Even though she'd chosen to depart the Shore to continue with an investigation that had begun on the verdant world, it was still, difficult being away. She would learn.

One of the reasons she stayed far from the congratulatory parties was because of whom it involved.

It was difficult to stand among them, clap, and smile with the knowledge that she was partially responsible for any charges that were brought up against Baros Sal-Soren . It was her duty to follow every lead. More than that—It was the way they kept themselves accountable. No one was beyond reproach for wrongdoing. Still…

Still.

A little smile dotted the kiss of her mouth when Jedi Noble pulled the focus on the assembled parties to swiftly promote the siblings. She knew how much it meant to Bran. Likely, Briana too. It almost felt like a coronation versus a Knighting and the night-blind Knight felt intensely humbled by the display. Her own promotion had been fraught with calamity and swiftness. There was no pomp and circumstance to add a sense of grandeur to the event. Only two witnesses. Cybelle could recall a sense of pride—But it had been driven of necessity.

There were no libations after the event. No cheers. No one to clap or congratulate.

There was acceptance, a solemn vow, and a moment of silence, before they returned to the field.

Her hands rose at the end so that she could tap two fingers against her palm in polite support. Everyone was already saying everything she could think to say, doing, everything she might have done. Some of the attendees were even driven to tears. It was uncharacteristically emotional for the Jedi Order than she knew and found herself adrift in a sea of well-wishing and promises.

It was a good moment, Cybelle decided. Something to warm their hearts and lift them up. As unorthodox as she found it, the gentle sweetness in her approved, and the young woman continued to people-watch. Coruscant was…Not her home. But, it had people on it she had come to care about. Someone that…Against all odds, against time, family, and literal parsecs between them—She had come to love.

That alone was worth being present.

 

[Vizion Trozky]

THE HUNTER-KNIGHT
NEW JEDI ORDER
HALL OF KNIGHTHOOD - JEDI TEMPLE - CORUSCANT
Briana Sal-Soren | Brandyn Sal-Soren | Valery Noble
Lossa Aureus | Dreidi Xeraic | Aiden Porte

Most others had went up to the pair, effectively crowding them with congratulations and well-wishes, and in seeing the jubilant show of support, he couldn't help but think of the stark difference between this and his own knighting, which was a faint ember in a sea of time-dulled aches. Dulled by distance and reason. Overshadowed by war. They should take as much joy as they could harvest in these fleeting moments, and every such moment thereafter.

There was no telling when the next reprieve would come.

But like him, another held back, as if doing her best not to be seen. Just there, to the opposite side of him from the others. Vizion tilted his head slightly towards the presence he felt, just enough to get a proper sidelong look. Wondering her own reasons for the restraint, and how she related to the siblings. Briana seemed surrounded by others who might share the same kind of energy as her, but this one? He turned his head back towards the front for another moment.

[ Hmm. ]

They would be occupied for... however long. It was hard to tell with these things. Slipping his hands into the pockets of his trousers, the Brentaalan turned softly and walked over to the other Knight - he was guessing she was; few padawans could keep themselves back from the flame of joy. Wordlessly, he parked himself alongside Cybelle Elyance , against the wall. Then, after a moment:

"Not planning on going up there?"

 

[Blaire Sal-Soren]

Wearing | Location | Brandyn Sal-Soren Briana Sal-Soren Vizion Trozky Cybelle Elyance​

Of course, she had come. There was no way she would miss this. It didn’t matter what was happening with their family or how Blaire felt about it. This was about Bran and yes, it was about Briana too. This was probably the most important day of their lives and it wouldn’t be right if she didn’t share it with them.

From a distance.

For her to see them surrounded by their peers, mentors, friends, and loved ones, the people who have been there for them and who they had grown to love over their time away, just reminded her of the gap between them. It had always been there she knew but now it was more vast than it had ever been and filled with faces she didn’t recognize.

Did they know she existed or did they think Brandyn and Briana were twins.

Did it matter?

Today it did not.

There were some familiar faces among the crowd. Her cousins Lossa and Luric were both here and so were Cy and Viz.

Viz

She knew right away it was him when she saw him. She’d spent enough time growing up looking at Vizion…well staring…and trying not to get caught, while hoping one of those days he would catch her, that for once he would see her back but he was always too busy looking at Briana.

Blaire decided not to approach her siblings or anyone else and instead found a spot on the wall near the door in case she found a good excuse.

As people shifted in and out of congratulating Bran and Briana, she tried to catch Bran’s eye and offer him a small wave and a smile that let him know

‘I’m proud of you.’

​

 

[Cybelle Elyance]

Wearing: Armor (Robes)
Equipment: Lightsaber
Location: Jedi Temple
Tag: Brandyn Sal-Soren | Briana Sal-Soren | Vizion Trozky + Jedi Friends [Open to Tag]

He really was quite handsome.

The errant thought caused tawny orbs to pull away from Brandyn Sal-Soren with the charming innocence of someone unused to facing the truth of their own feelings. It was new. To see him with her own eyes versus glancing through the filter that the Force provided. There had always been a buffer between her and the world she tried so hard to be a part of. Without it… Provided many first experiences. Some good—Some, miserable.

A tree was just a tree. A flower, just a flower. The stars didn't sing. The universe didn't speak.

It was quiet.

Cybelle had adapted to that silence no matter how temporary the New Jedi Order medical staff predicted it would be. The serum that she had been injected with on Chandrila which had been a supposed "cure" for force sensitivity worked. Kind of. Just as life often found a way it seemed that the Force followed suit and was dead set on eroding the artificial blockers. They would break down, slowly, and as they did—Her force sensitivity would be restored.

At least…That was what she'd been told. The young Hapani didn't want to get her hopes up, nor, did she want to talk about it. If she couldn't be a Knight any longer…She didn't know what her life would become. She had always known her path. Always. Rather than dwell, however, she pressed forward with the things that she could do something about. Working on the investigation, remotely.

Saying goodbye to a Knight that hadn't been quite as lucky as she had been on Chandrila.

The jade robes she wore shimmered just lightly when she moved while the nanites settled and adapted. She willed that they change, as needed, and this event found her in neutral tones and carefully draped fabric to express the formal situation. Every bit of her garb seemed to be pristine, as if the outfit were new, but that was really just the work of the tech in her gear. It always looked that way.

She was a little taken aback when someone actually approached her.

The young woman had long ago accepted that it wasn't her place to exist in a sense of finding purchase and meaning in the mundane. It was why she had done her best to blend in so carefully with the wall she stood in front of. To become a fixture for a set piece; not the main event. When Vizion Trozky spoke he would find that her expression lightened considerably from beneath lengths of auburn hair that fell straight as a pin. It was the difference between night and daybreak. He saw her. Somewhere in the masses of lovely, shining things, he thought to pull back and speak to the wallflower.

Cybelle only knew one other person who did that. Curious...

"No."

The simple word was met without bitterness, nor, any emotion that might have signaled some sort of negativity. It was a sweet water drop that broke the tension before smoothing the surface as naturally as rain might fall. "I'm just here to offer my support."

They didn't need her anxiety over the stark sensation of being without the Force. Of feeling…Powerless.

Honeyed eyes rose to take in the features of her sudden companion and fellow wall troller when a sense of awareness gave her reason to pause. Her head tilted just slightly in mild curiosity. He seemed very familiar, though, she couldn't quite place his name. "And you?"

"Won't you offer your congratulations?"

 

[Brandyn Sal-Soren]

Wearing: Traditional Nabooian Knighthood Attire
Equipment: Standard green lightsaber
Location: NJO temple
Tag: Valery Noble Briana Sal-Soren Blaire Sal-Soren Lossa Aureus Dreidi Xeraic Luric Ee'everwest Aiden Porte Esme Volcaine Vizion Trozky Cybelle Elyance

Glitter.

Why was there glitter?

Brandyn found himself stepping out of the way of the glitter attack but to no avail. A slight appearance of curmudgeon crossed his face for a moment before he gave himself over to the mess in the air. It would take months to disappear from his laundry cycle after this. "Thanks...Lossa...so much," he said, both honestly thankful for excitement and sarcastic in regards the glitter.

The accolades proceeded quickly, and Brandyn felt hard pressed to keep up and give everyone the attention they deserved. All the while, he felt the absence of the one with whom he mostly wished to celebrate. How we wished Cybelle could have been here with him. But her recovery seemed to be taking longer than they expected. He missed feeling her presence through the Force, it was...different...now. The throng of well-wishers continue to obstruct his view of the room at large, and he knew if he was going to escape the room to go and see Cybelle he would have to work swiftly, and kindly through the congratulations.

"Thank you, Driedi. I wouldn't be here without you teaching me how to run away," he offered with a smile, almost a laugh.

"Aiden. Are you here with someone?" Brandyn said, glancing over his friends shoulder. He looked back at Aiden with an approving expression. "Well done you! Fill me in on the gossip later, huh?."

"Cousin Lulu!" Brandyn said with a wink, "told you I would catch up to you eventually." Brandyn offered his cousin a handshake.

"Thank you, Master Noble," he said with a nod, "you are a fine teacher. And a great mentor. Thank you for all you do for the Jedi Order."

It was then that he caught glimpse of someone special in the crowd, just beyond the couple of initial rows of well wishers. Blaire? Without a moments thought, Brandyn apologized his way through pushing through the small crowd. Upon reaching his sister, he paused for a moment. "A what the heck..."

He had hesitated but went for the hug. He knew Blaire would probably hit him later for the public show of affection, but he didn't care. It was worth the bruises. "I love you, Blaire. Thank you so much for coming." It was nice to have some of the extended family visit.

When he opened his eyes, he found them noticing a very familiar looking Hapan Jedi Knight. A mixture of emotions flooded in all at once. Protectiveness was first. Why was she not resting? Sadness was second. He hadn't felt her presence in the Force. But it all rested into a quiet thankfulness that she was still alive.

With a promise to Blaire that they would talk later, Brandyn waved over to Cybelle and Vizion, only to be swamped with a few more well wishers that held him back for a moment longer.