Private A Lightsaber and a Lesson

[Darth Reign]

Location: Korriban, Landing platforms
Tags: Gavin Vel Naamino Zuukamano Darth Nocturne

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Reign stood at the open ramp of his Lambda shuttle. His daughters and wife Darth Nocturne standing by his side.

He had summoned the acolytes Gavin Vel and Naamino Zuukamano to fulfill a promise he had made to them during their first meeting, the acolytes had impressed him, and he would honor his oath to take them to build their lightsabers.

This still would not be easy for them, the synthetic crystals they were to create required a very special machine and intense meditation, and the planet the Dark Lord had chosen for this, would provide its own challenges.

Nathema; a cold, dead world, was once the home of the Sith Lord Darth Vitiate, who would decimate the planet in his quest for power. The Diarch had only stepped foot on the planet himself once. A barren rock devoid of even the force upon its surface, unnerving and silent.

He turned to his wife while they waited saying “I hope they are prepared, this quest will not be easy.”

Nightmare, his older daughter spoke softly, her mind always calculating “This planet seethes with power father, I look forward to meeting these new acolytes. If they’ve caught your eye, then surely they are something to behold.”

He smiled at her in return “only time will tell, let us see how they compare to you and your sister. I want you to observe, help me to identify weaknesses and areas that we may target in further training”

She nodded her head in acknowledgment of his command. Nightmare’s tactical and analytical mind would be of great value. Her years of training had honed her senses, and she often saw what others overlooked.

 

[Darth Nocturne]

Nocturne stood by her husband’s side, hand placed around his waist. Providing the grounding she often did for the Diarch. So often was he lost in his grand plans and lofty ideals, that she needed to bring him back to the present.

Her elegant black robes flowing softly in the wind. She spoke softly to her husband, so softly that only her husband, so used to her manner, would hear her “They must succeed, for if not, they are not worthy of your notice my love.”

She examined the area around them, this had been her first trip to Korriban as well. She felt the thrumming of power within the planet. Listening carefully to the dark whispers of power. She heard the conversation between their oldest daughter and her father, whatever task he had given her would be performed to perfection, as was her way.

Shadow, their younger daughter crept up by their side. Her animated voice speaking up “I hope they are strong, do you think they are as strong as us? Do you think they’ll agree to duel with me? I’ve been training almost as long as my sister, I think I can take them!”

Nocturne couldn’t help but smile at her daughter’s aggression. Still untempered, despite the conflict she had seen.

Chastising her softly she said “settle now, if your father has taken a shine to them, we must treat them like family. However, should they prove unworthy of the honor, you may have your fun”

Shadow huffed and crossed her arms. Rocking on the balls of her feet impatiently.

Naamino Zuukamano Gavin Vel Darth Reign

 

[Gavin Vel]

The day had come for Gavin to finally claim his prize—a lightsaber. Ever since he had first laid eyes on one, he had coveted it. He would watch with barely veiled jealousy as students, knights, and masters alike strode through the academy, the weapon of the Sith displayed proudly on their hips. He longed to be among them, to wield the symbol of true power. He deserved it.

Darth Reign had promised to guide him in the creation of his lightsaber, and today, he made good on that promise. Since the battle atop the Spire, Gavin had looked upon Reign with reverence. To him, Darth Reign embodied everything a Sith should be—powerful, poised, and commanding. Gavin had been doing everything in his power to emulate that, albeit with mixed results. But he wanted to learn, to absorb every lesson Reign had to offer, and most of all, he wanted to impress him.

Though Gavin might not consciously realize it, he had never had a father figure in his life, and part of him had latched onto Darth Reign in that role. To Gavin, it wasn’t about needing a father—it was about proving himself to someone who exuded the power and authority he craved. Deep down, he longed for validation, for someone to look at him with pride, to finally feel as though he mattered. Darth Reign was the key to unlocking that hidden desire.

Today was his chance. Gavin was determined to show Reign that he was more than just a brute, more than a bloodthirsty warrior. He was an apprentice worthy of his master’s attention and respect. He had improved in maintaining his composure since his arrival, and though he wasn’t perfect, he was leagues ahead of where he’d started. Today, he would demonstrate his growth.

Clad in his academy robes—black with red accents, the Rakghoul symbol etched proudly on the fabric—Gavin cut an imposing figure as he walked beside Naamino. The contrast between the two was stark: Gavin’s massive frame towered over the smaller Zabrak. To the casual observer, Naamino might have appeared to be Gavin’s subordinate. But anyone who made that assumption would be sorely mistaken.

In the time they’d spent together, Gavin had come to respect Naamino as the brains of their operation. The Zabrak possessed a fierce determination and a sharp mind that far exceeded his unassuming stature. Initially, Gavin had dismissed him as an overeager boy with ambition beyond his capacity. But now, he saw Naamino as a future leader of the Sith—a force to be reckoned with. Gavin walked beside him with pride, no longer seeing him as a sidekick but as an equal.

"You won’t have to worry about me today," Gavin said, his tone serious as they walked toward the hangar. His eyes remained forward, focused on the task ahead. "I’m going to make sure we both look impressive." He meant every word. Today wasn’t just about him; it was about both of them proving their worth.

As they stepped into the hangar, the sight before them was awe-inspiring. Darth Reign stood with his family—his two daughters and his wife—and his imposing ship loomed in the background. The sight alone was a testament to the power Reign wielded, and Gavin felt a surge of pride knowing he was worthy of the Sith Lord’s teachings.

Gavin’s gaze flicked to Reign’s daughters, their presence giving him pause. Years of ingrained misogyny made him instinctively underestimate them, but the academy had taught him better. Looks could be deceiving, and if they were Reign’s progeny, they were undoubtedly more dangerous than they appeared. His eyes then moved to Reign’s wife, and he could feel her power radiating just as strongly as her husband’s. Together, they were an intimidating force—a duo Gavin secretly aspired to surpass one day.

For now, though, his ambitions were tempered. He had a long road ahead, and he knew it. With respect, Gavin dropped to his knees. Even in this position, his sheer size made him a striking figure, but he made no effort to appear imposing. He was here as a servant, a student ready to receive guidance.

"My lord," Gavin said, his voice filled with reverence, his eyes fixed on the ground until he was given permission to look up. He deliberately focused solely on Reign, unsure of how to address the Sith Lord’s family and unwilling to risk overstepping. "You honor the two of us today." His words were measured, respectful, as he fought to keep his excitement in check.

Inside, however, his heart raced. This was the culmination of everything he had worked toward. Today, he would finally be more than a student. Today, he would be an Acolyte of the Sith Order.

Darth Reign Darth Nocturne Naamino Zuukamano

 

[Naamino Zuukamano]

A parcel from home had arrived just in time, barely in time to be honest. Naami had sent new measurements to his Aunt over a month earlier, having practically begged Micah tol Powl to assist him in getting an accurate read across his shoulders. The zabrak also convinced him to help create an equation to project out from the last two sets of clothes he had so that the next set might last him more than a few months. But alas, he seemed to be growing like a weed.

Despite all that, the new robes fit him well for now and he strode proudly beside Gavin Vel toward the opportunity of a lifetime. He noted the impressive changes that he'd seen in his friend and hoped that all of his own hard work was noticeable too. The extra long combat training sessions, the hours upon hours of studying, being woken up in the middle of the night by a mist wraith and required to train beneath the cold distant stars by Darth Thaliax himself. Naami felt certain that he had grown much, but it was time for him to prove that to himself, to Gavin, and most importantly to Darth Reign .

"You won't have to worry about me today," Gavin said, his tone serious as they walked toward the hangar. His eyes remained forward, focused on the task ahead. "I'm going to make sure we both look impressive."

"I'm not worried about you, Gav. We've got this," Naami responded with earnest determination.

The boy felt a sense of surprise at seeing the Diarch's wife and children. He knew about them of course- Reign had mentioned them dotingly. But to be confronted with their presence and clear sense of purposeful power was quite another thing. Naami followed the lead of his brother in arms, taking a knee mere moments after him. The zabrak planted one fist against the ground, knuckles becoming coated in red rock dust which littered the hangar floor, while he brought his other fist across his chest in a kneeling soldier's salute.

"Dark Lady, Lord Reign, the Diarchy honors us this day."

His comment was a near echo of Gavin's but the boy had the foresight to include Darth Nocturne in his greeting and gratitude. Though he knelt, Naamino Zuukamano kept his spine straight and his eyes up, daring even to meet the eyes of Reign's daughters for a time.

Spirit of Korriban​

 

[Darth Reign]

While the Sith Lord would not let the acolytes see it, he was beaming with pride. The shift in @Gavin Vel’s demeanor was noticeable, and noted. And while the young Zabrak Naamino Zuukamano would never have known it, Reign held his wife Darth Nocturne in a much higher standing than himself, so a compliment to her would be very effective.

Gazing down upon the acolytes, his firm “teacher” face on and his hands clasped behind his back he spoke “Rise”

As the Acolytes rose, the Dark Lord could feel his children studying them, sizing them up. Nightmare’s watchful gaze always upon them.

Looking at the Zabrak his tone softened slightly as he asked “Have I been gone that long? You’ve nearly doubled in size dear boy”

He could hear Shadow snickering, but he put it away, the child still lacked decorum, but she was among others her age, her father would let it slide on this journey..for now.

“Introductions are in order. Acolyte Vel, Acolyte Zuukamano, please meet my family. My children, the ladies Nightmare and Shadow”

As he spoke, his apprentice’s stepped forward and spoke as one “Greetings Acolytes” they said while bowing.

“and my wife, Darth Nocturne, Dark Lady of the Diarchy and head of the Crucible of Order”

after the introductions were completed, Reign turned and walked up the ramp of his waiting shuttle. His Black Armored Praetorian Guards waiting just inside.

Darth Nocturne Gavin Vel Naamino Zuukamano

 

[Darth Nocturne]

The Dark Lady smiled slightly at the young Zabrak’s words. So very formal, this young one, she thought.

She squeezed the hand that was on Reign’s waist slightly, he would understand her intent. The boy was one she would watch.

As the Diarch spoke, she heard Shadow laugh, Nocturne nudged her slightly with her feet and shot a pointed glance.

As Reign introduced them, she watched the children bow, and stepped forward herself.

“Greetings Acolytes. My husband has spoken very highly of you, let us hope you live up to his expectations. There is much he can teach you.”

Gavin Vel Darth Reign Naamino Zuukamano

 

[Gavin Vel]

Gavin rose from his kneeling position as soon as permission was granted. He dipped his head respectfully to the others present, his unpracticed bows lacking the smooth elegance expected of a Sith, but the intent behind them was unmistakably genuine. His eyes lingered briefly on Darth Nocturne, the air around the Sith Lord heavy with authority. Gavin knew immediately that if he wanted to earn Darth Reign’s full respect, impressing Nocturne would be crucial.

“It’s an honor to meet all of you." Gavin said, the words feeling foreign on his tongue. Formality wasn’t his strong suit. His past dealings with respect typically involved standing silently behind gangsters, exuding intimidation while others did the talking. Pleasantries were a rare requirement in that world, but here, in the presence of such power, he understood their importance.

Still, he couldn’t resist adding, “We will exceed any expectations laid upon us.” It wasn’t necessary, but Gavin’s ego was as much a part of him as his hulking build. Confidence radiated from him, his belief in his own prowess unshakable. Gavin believed in himself so strongly that it bordered on arrogance, and he wore it like a badge of honor.

With the formalities concluded, Gavin followed Darth Reign aboard the ship. The interior was lined with guards, their stoic faces giving nothing away. As he passed them, Gavin couldn’t help but size them up, his mind briefly entertaining the thought of a fight. How many could he take down before Reign stepped in? Three, maybe four. The thought brought a faint smirk to his lips, but he quickly pushed it aside. There was a time and place for such indulgences, and this wasn’t it.

“So, where are we going?” he asked, his curiosity breaking through his attempt at maintaining formal decorum. It had been months since he’d set foot anywhere beyond Korriban, and the prospect of a new mission was exhilarating. The thought of venturing out, of seeing new worlds and proving his worth beyond the Academy, filled him with restless energy. This was the start of something bigger, and Gavin was eager to seize the opportunity.

Darth Reign Darth Nocturne Naamino Zuukamano

 

[Naamino Zuukamano]

Naamino rose from his kneel when instructed and followed suit as his friend led the way. His thoughts were no less calculated and scheming, though perhaps more "innocent" than what Gavin Vel was pondering. In truth, he wondered how he measured up to Darth Reign's own daughters. He knew he could likely never compete with the bond of blood but did wonder how powerful they were. Atmosphere blue eyes surveilled them each briefly, his judgements made quickly so as not to cause offense or actually issue challenge.

"Well met," he politely addressed them all with the simple greeting.

The boy kept his hands calmly at his sides, robes flowing as he walked, hoping to look half as majestic as the Sith family granting them passage to this new trial. He'd packed almost nothing save for a few changes of clothes and his datapad so that he could keep up on some class readings during the journey. But otherwise he came just as he was, resolute that he had to be enough. The zabrak had been humbled plenty in recent weeks, and had grown in more ways than just physical. The boy's confidence was newly tempered with stark reminders of just how far he had to go before achieving mastery, he had also since learned about more of his particular brand of Force sensitivity and possible powers.

So Naami listened intently as Darth Reign might make to answer his peer's question. The boy wouldn't speak overmuch without being spoken to but he did give Darth Nocturne one more respectful nod once aboard their ship. He would stick close to the others and await his seat on the craft, or his lodgings depending on how long their journey would be.

 

[Darth Reign]

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Location: Onboard Reign’s personal Lambda Shuttle
Tags: Naamino Zuukamano Gavin Vel Darth Nocturne

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Reign smirked at Gavin’s question. Knowing his lapse in decorum would rankle Nocturne. He would placate the man though.

“Have you ever heard of the planet Nathema before, acolyte Vel? I would expect not. It is a long dead planet, its life force used by the Sith Lord Darth Vitiate in a dark ritual that saw the sacrifice of eight thousand Sith Lords and the planet itself to massively increase his power.”

he paused a moment, motioning for his guards to take control of the shuttle and get them underway. He would stay out here to teach.

“We are going to this planet to use a very special machine. One that simulates the geological processes needed to create kyber crystals. You will meditate during this process and attune yourself to the crystal. Thus allowing a better compatibility between saber and wielder. This is something we all have done, and in Shadow’s case twice”

as he said this part, he held out his own lightsaber hilt, his children doing the same, and they ignited their blades. The crimson single blades of Reign and Nightmare, the pink of Nocturne, and finally, the double blades of Shadow.

Extinguishing their sabers he continued “This task however will not be as simple as it sounds. Nathema is a world that is devoid of the force. So the very environment will be working against you. Not only that, but you will come face to face with your own personal demons. You must conquer them to attune to your crystal and ensure your blade functions. While on the planet, you will also search the ruins for the material to make your hilts.”

He then motioned for all of them to take their seats.