Private Acclimatization

[Adenn Kyramud]

Tracyn was a beautiful planet, one that had been broken but never lost. It was home of Clan Mortui, located deep in the Unknown Regions, and only those belonging to Clan Mortui knew how to get to their home planet. Not only that, but it was impressively defended, as the new arrivals had seen on their approach. Orbital stations, massive gun batteries, and countless warriors all over. One day prior those new arrivals had been slaves, they had been freed and decided joining Clan Mortui would be the best odds of survival they had. Adenn had accepted them, more importantly he'd accepted one small child who had taken her freedom that day, ne Vanessa Vale.

The day prior the former slaves had been welcomed to their new homes, they'd been cleaned up, and then they'd been given time to rest. This day would be different, this was the start of their new lives. Early in the morning, just as the sun was beginning to shine across the capital city, alarms rang to wake the people for a new day of training, a new day of productivity. The former slaves had all been quartered in certain barracks and even now their new trainers were calling for them to rise for a day of training. As for the children, they had been housed in a separate area, unless they had family. Unfortunately, not many did, but that would change soon.

As for Vanessa herself, she had asked to come with Adenn specifically, so she had been given a room near to where Adenn himself lived. It wasn't anything overly exciting or fancy, but it had everything one needed. There was also a new set of clothes for the day, set in the colors of Clan Mortui. For her, the alarm went off the same as with everyone else, but instead of a trainer roaring for her to awake, Adenn was simply waiting in the common area. He was already fully armed and armored, with his helmet on his hip. The same thing would happen to Vanessa as for every other former slave, but Adenn would be with her, a guardian and a teacher.

Vanessa Vale

 

[Vanessa Vale]

Adenn Kyramud

Having arrived on Tracyn, Vanessa found that she kind of liked it here. People were kind to her, and at least helped her where needed to clean up. As night drew close, Vanessa got acquainted with her room. It was small, a single bed and simple furnishings. But it was perfect to her. Vanessa felt like she was at least normal again. As the sky darkened, Vanessa closed her eyes, and let sleep take her away.

With an alarm going off, her sleep drunk mind took a moment or two to realize where she was. For a moment, she had thought that all of what happened was nothing but a delusional dream. But the soft covers across her body, the comfy surroundings and her full belly confirmed to her that it was not a dream; But her new life among Clan Mortui as one of their newest members. Taking a coupe of minutes to wake fully up as she sleepily got dressed and made herself somewhat presentable, she eventually made her way to a common room. She was at least thankful that Adenn had let her take up residence near his own place of rest. It made her feel like she was protected. Like a child looking to a parent. In some way, Vanessa thought of Adenn as that. A protective parent and warrior to keep her and the others safe.

Upon arriving at the common room, Vanessa's eyes caught sight of Adenn waiting for her. He still looked every part the warrior as she walked towards him. Having only the clothes on her back, a nice deep black with some red lines over her still fairly skinny form. The ends of her sleeves at her wrists had a red strip on then, just like the lining of her pockets, shoulders and even neck line. They were comfortable in every way. She couldn't wait to show to Adenn how they fit and to thank him. "Morning, Adenn," Vanessa called to the Mando, her form brightening up as she made her way to him. Giving a quick pirouette, not stopping on her way towards Adenn, she asked in a happy tone, "Thanks for the new clothes. They fit perfectly!" Spinning around, showing off the clothes to Adenn was her way of showing how appreciative she was off them. She had rarely been given anything other than spits of hate or insults as a Slave.

Once close enough, Vanessa instantly gave Adenn a tight hug around his middle, a smile that radiated happiness upon her face. Her black hair looked smoother and less greasy like when she arrived. Her face didn't have a speck of dust or grime on it either. She really was the best she had been in a long time. "What are we doing today?" Vanessa asked, releasing the Mando and taking a couple cheerful steps back. Her neck long hair bounced as she practically jumped without removing her soles at all from the ground. She looked like a child who was about to be taken on a wonderful day out. To her, that was exactly how she felt. The sky blue eyes gazed at Adenn as she awaited to hear what they're task for the day would be.

 

[Adenn Kyramud]

Looking out the window and across the vibrant city, Adenn was lost in thought as Vanessa emerged from her room. However, when she called out to him, Adenn turned with a smile on his face. Chuckling at her excitement and pirouette Adenn took in Vanessa's new liveliness, smiling at the contrast to the day before.
"Morning adiik, I hope you slept well."

Returning the hug by wrapping his arm around her, Adenn squeezed her before letting go. In return to her question and barely contained joy, Adenn's smile turned more mischievous. Pulling out another ration bar, Adenn tossed it to Vanessa.
"First, a light breakfast. Then as you're eating, we explore a bit so you get used to your new home." Motioning to the city right outside the window, one filled with life, both natural and man made. "There's a lot you'll need to get used to, not only in this building but the city itself. After that, some training before a proper breakfast that's leaning towards lunch."

Chuckling again, Adenn motioned for Vanessa to follow him. Making his way out of the common area, Adenn walked through a door and out onto a terrace. The air was fresh and clean, and general city life along with nature could be heard far and wide.
"Oh and before I forget, Mando'a training begins as of now. You're joining the clan, so you need to follow the Resol'nare and its code." Walking along, they passed a pair of Mandos who were enjoying an early morning stroll. Said Mandos saluted their Alor with a quick fist slam against their chest, before smiling towards Vanessa. "First, Mando'a is the name of our language, and you'll be learning as we go along. Second, the Resol'nare are the codes our society is based on, the 6 tenets we all follow as Mandalorians."

"It goes as such. You wear the armor," Adenn motioned to his beskar'gam he wore at that very moment. "the beskar'gam, made of Mandalorian beskar. You speak the language, Mando'a. You defend yourself and your family, your aliit, and this is from all who would seek to harm you and yours. When you have children, you raise them as Mandalorians. Furthermore, not only children but in daily life, you help the clan's welfare. This ranges from growing crops, healing people, to defending the clan, and ensuring trade is successful. Lastly, when the call of the Mand'alor, our leader, goes out, you answer and you rally to the cause. Granted for the last case, there have been many in recent times, few worthy. Thankfully, we have a good leader now, though I wait to see how well our lives will be in the wider galaxy."

Turning to look at Vanessa, Adenn would laugh again before stopping. Now they were stood outside the building they had both spent the night in, the home of Adenn's family in Clan Mortui.
"Clan Mortui has been lucky, no one but our own knows how to get here. We don't need to worry about the same strife as elsewhere, all on this planet are part of the clan. But that is something for later, as for the code. You'll need to remember it in time, but for now you simply learn about where you find yourself." Motioning towards the building, a large but simple building, one that had the banner of Clan Mortui hanging on either side of the door, along with banners of their closest allied clans hanging new to them. The banners of Cadera, Solus, and Gred.

The building was tall, tan colored, had countless windows and was dotted with shrubbery from across the planet. As for the entrance, it was a wide, two doored affair. Carved into the pillars of the doors was the Resol'nare and then the personal war cry of Clan Mortui. 'For Mandalore and our aliit.' Above the door was a flat wall, one that had a screen on it. This screen showed pictures of battles Clan Mortui had fought in, pictures of every battle. It changed every few minutes, but it was clear to see that Clan Mortui had fought countless times, and by the dates, a good chunk had been in recent decades. All in all, the place was beautiful, a testament to the architectural skills of the clan and the botanist tendencies of its members, particularly Aditya.

As for Adenn, he was proud of the sight, but turned his attention to Vanessa.
"This is your new home, my own residence. Within is my family. Aditya, my wife, along with our children." Turning to Vanessa, Adenn ruffled her hair with a smile. "If you want, you can number amongst them as well."

Vanessa Vale

 

[Vanessa Vale]

Adenn Kyramud

The hug back that Adenn gave to her felt wonderful in everyway. As Adenn talked about their goings about for the day, tossing her a ration bar which she caught just about, Vanessa following closely by as she ate the bar slowly. The saluting Mandos they passed were interesting. She even gave a small wave to them as she stuck close to her new friend. As Adenn talked through the many rules that she'd have to follow, Vanessa tried to commit it all to memory as she saw the screen that showed the many battles the clan had been a part of. It was so bloody and so many had died. Vanessa's mind wandered for a moment as she gazed at the screen, her mind wondering if she'd be as strong as those who fought that day and lived to talk about it. She was a bit unsure about the training that Adenn had previously mentioned, but she would at least give it her all for the sake of giving something back for her saving from being a slave.

When Adenn turned to her and showed her the outside of her new home, Vanessa's face lit up a bit. She always wanted to live in a proper home. Somewhere she could call her safe place. Somewhere she could feel safe every day after the many tasks she knew she would be doing throughout it. When Adenn offered a place among his house with his wide and children, Vanessa's mouth opened. Her head still in his hand, she stood there for a moment before lowering it. Her small shoulder began to shake as a small whimper followed by light tears began to fall from her face. With a small couple of steps forwards, Vanessa hugged Adenn even tighter than she had ever before. She knew at that moment, she'd have somewhere better than a simple safe place to sleep. But a place she could call Home. "Yes.... I'd love to," Vanessa said as she looked up at Adenn with a face that was the embodiment of the word, 'joy'.

She had a hard time letting go of the Mando as she gave her best go at their salute she had seen the Mandos from before do. The light across her teary eyes, as she gazed to Adenn's face, almost made them sparkle like stars in the middle of the day. "I promise to be the best I can be for the Clan, and your family!" Vanessa said, still holding the salute as she strongly voiced a promise to the person who saved her. She'd cherish the connection they had made for the rest of her days.

 

[Adenn Kyramud]

Chuckling as Vanessa waved to his vode, Adenn had simply returned their salute as they continued on. Observing Vanessa as they continued on, Adenn felt his smile remain. It was good to see Vanessa try her best to learn, and it reminded Adenn that he needed to protect her until she could protect herself. More over, her genuine joy at the house brought a laugh from Adenn. It truly was something else to see her happy, and it was a new take on life that Adenn himself needed.

Gazing down at Vanessa, Adenn was surprised when Vanessa started to quiver. Immediately he began to apologize for making her cry, only to be surprised once more when she hugged him. Had she been bigger and stronger, it would've taken the breath out of him. Instead, it simply left him speechless once more. Wrapping his arms around her once more, Adenn smiled down at her as she said yes. Not only that, but the sheer joy she showed was heartwarming. Smiling at her salute, Adenn returned it before kneeling in front of Vanessa.

"I know you will, but it's your family as well now. Ni kyr'tayl gai sa'ad Vanessa Vale." I know your name as my child. With those simple words, Adenn adopted Vanessa into his family, and by Mandalorian law she would be his daughter. Thumping his fist against his chest, Adenn then thumped it against Vanessa's as well. With a smile, Adenn continued. "You're one of us now, aliit, family."

Pulling Vanessa close for another hug, Adenn gave her a kiss on her forehead before rising to his feet. Smiling down at her, Adenn turned his attention to the skies. Letting out a piercing whistle, Adenn spoke up again.
"Now that you've seen your home, let's keep looking around." A few moments later, a Tracyn Mirshko landed near Adenn with a dull thump. This was Calyr, Adenn's personal dragon mount. In combat, he was heavily armored to protect him from enemy fire, but he was still a scarred creature. Regardless of that, Calyr was majestic and sat tall and proud. He gave a short sniff towards Vanessa before quirking his head to Adenn. Smiling, Adenn spoke up, adressing both mount and child. "Vanessa, this is Calyr, my Tracyn Mirshko. Calyr, this is Vanessa, a new adiik to the aliit."

Smiling as Calyr lowered his head to stare at Vanessa, before sniffing her face once more. Shaking his head with some joy, Adenn hopped onto Calyr's back. Placing his helmet back on his head, Adenn offered his hand to Vanessa, along with a breathing mask.
"Come on adiik, Calry's going to take us to the more important places you need to know of. And keep the mask on, we'll be flying high to get there faster."

Once Vanessa was on and securely in the seat behind Adenn, Calyr would take off. With two quick flaps of his wings, they were suddenly a dozen meters in the air and rapidly climing. Below the city spread out and away, even as other Tracyn Mirhsko's became evident. They were a rapidly rising black dot in the sky, one that was heading along the edge of the city, towards a massive field with numerous dots across it. Said dots ranged from large vehicles to buildings, all the way to small dots of warriors training, or their targets. And that was where Vanessa would soon get her first taste of Mandalorian training, before they'd break for lunch, along with celebrations.

Vanessa Vale

 

[Vanessa Vale]

Adenn Kyramud

After speaking her promise to Adenn, where he declared that she was a part of their family, Vanessa cherished the hug and kiss on her forehead. Some light tears were still falling down her face, which she wiped away. It was exactly like being hugged by a parent. It brought a bit of nostalgia, probably from the last time she was embraced by her parents before they were split up. If only she could remember their faces. Vanessa made an internal promise to herself as Adenn let out a whistle, that she would never forget his or his family's faces. "Even though my memory is in tatters, I will never forget you or my new family," Vanessa thought as she heard a sound from above.

Seeing the Tracyn Mirshko, the black dragon, land before her, Vanessa stopped herself from jumping back. When it sniffed her first, then once again after Adenn introduced them to one another, she realized that it wasn't harmful to her. When she climbed onto its back with Adenn, she clung to her adoptive father as they rocketed upwards. Vanessa wanted to keep her eyes open, but closed them tight out of fear for the first minute they were airborne. It took a fair amount of pushing herself to open her eyes, only to see the many specks of buildings and people fair below them. It was amazing, yet also terrifying to look down. So she reserved her gaze to Adenn's back. It was better than potentially better than getting nauseous from the immense height they were at.

Vanessa wondered what it would be like training to be like them. Most likely harder than most she had done in her life, but it would absolutely cause many deep sleeps afterwards. The many dots of training Mandos and other clan members was a bit comforting. She wasn't going to be the only one going through it almost, if not, every day. Vanessa's mind suddenly remembered. She had never held a blaster, let alone anything as a weapon aside from the rough sharpened knife she almost used to take a Slaver's life with on Coruscant. She'd really need to train if she was going to be any better than she already was.

 

[Adenn Kyramud]

They rose quickly and efficiently, a testament to both rider and mounts skill and countless flight hours together. It also spoke of a bond that had been forged in the fires of war, one that Adenn clearly treasured. Flying as quickly as they were, they reached the training fields quickly. Beginning a descent, Adenn spoke up to Vanessa once more, pointing towards several growing dots.
"That's our aliit, Clan Mortui. Just a fraction of who we are, a fraction of our strength. But enough to get most things done. Right now, it's just general training, especially for the new vode. Aliit meaning family and vode being siblings, ner'vod specifically for brother/sister." Turning to look at her, Adenn grinned beneath his helmet. "Again, we don't care who you are so long as you fight by our side and follow the code. Doesn't matter who you were before, when you join, you have cin'vhetin, or a clean slate. A blank, white field of snow."

Turning forward, Adenn circled around a few more times to give Vanessa a good view of everything. There were training targets, pits for testing physical prowess, numerous gun racks with countless guns. Along with all these things came countless Mandalorians, all in their beskar'gam, aside from several younger members, all around Vanessa's age or younger, the new recruits or those training without armor entirely. All in all, it was very efficient, but very welcoming. There was a general noise of talk accompanied by weapons being discharged, weapons clashing against one another, and laughter from various sources. Here was a group of Mandalorians that was having fun, simply training both themselves and the next generation.

Landing with another dull thump, Adenn slid off Calyr with ease, before offering a hand to Vanessa to help her down. Grinning, Adenn removed his helmet shortly thereafter, turning to take in the sight of his clan training. Numerous clan members saluted or otherwise shouted out greetings to Adenn, both of which Adenn returned with a smile. Turning his attention back to Vanessa, Adenn motioned to the training area, all of it.
"Welcome to training adiik, welcome to a world where you learn from the best to become the best." Kneeling before Vanessa, Adenn placed a hand on her shoulder. "We always start with simple stances and hand to hand combat, a foundation for the future. However Vanessa'ika(little Vanessa), I'll make an exception for your first day. What would you like to do first? We have weapons ranging from blasters to slug throwers, disruptors, and more exotic items. Or something melee oriented, knives to swords, vibroblades and lightsabers are something for more advanced learners. Of course, we can always start with the basics, something simple."

Vanessa Vale

 

[Vanessa Vale]

Adenn Kyramud

With them coming in for a landing, Vanessa tried to keep her eyes closed whilst the draconic being motioned in circles, declining its height from the ground swarmed by Mandos young and old. Once Adenn had landed his mount that they were both on, Vanessa accepted his hand to climb off. It was a bit jarring to be in the air without a craft of some kind, but it was at least quicker than some non space traversing constructs. The words Adenn had said before they landed, about how coming her gave her a new start. A chance to leave her Slave self behind and begin a new path. Something was comforting about it, but she couldn't place what about it was so. Disregarding those thoughts, Vanessa looked over the clan members training with Adenn. They were extremely skilled and easily more stronger than she was.

Adenn's hand upon her shoulder snapped her out of a daze as she almost got lost in watching each warrior fight. Truth be told, she was more of a runner, or quick attack then back off type of person, so this was a bit unnerving. When told that hand to hand combat was the basic way to start that all members must learn, Vanessa was a bit hesitant. The offer of alternate training for the day was a bit more appealing. Thinking of her time over that Slaver she had pinned with the knife in her hand worried her immensely. What if she froze like that during training, or worse during an actual fight for her life. She didn't want to disappoint her new father with how she might be to frightened to attack in close quarters. Thinking for a moment, Vanessa's sky blue eyes looked at Adenn's face as asked in a semi quiet voice, "Can I practice with a blaster? A melee weapon might be a bit hard for me currently." She might be ok with one, although, she didn't know if she could handle any back blast from it. So a simple hand blaster, equivalent to a handgun, would be perfect for her.

Future potential Blaster? Just found it and it looked decent

 

[Aditya Fitz Kierke]

“N-no! Nuh-uh, Hector. Try shooting your sister and I swear on every star I will end you so fast your head’ll be spinning in Manda.” The boy’s gun hand lowers, about time to save poor Isolde from being a holy relic in our lives. And in pure Mortui fashion, what does my sweet, innocent, raven headed daughter do when she realizes one third of her trio nearly shot her with a blaster?

Punch her brother in the nose. “Yep! That’s my girl! Show him why we don’t put our fingers on the triggers until we’re ready to shoot. And why we don’t point at anything we don’t intend to shoot.”

I stand back with Vahan, who so far seems too busy inspecting his blaster pistol to notice the brawl between his fellow trips. A bit of a laugh, this. Nothing like seeing my girl defending herself against the pitfalls of potential pock-marks. The firing range in front, a scattering of Clan Mortui around in various forms of practice, and the scent of yesterday’s hunt on a spit far enough back to avoid any potential mishaps with lunch. Lei’ane fiddles with the spit, folds ujj cake batter into tins to cook in the coals. Fruit and spices, the savoury smoke and scent of meat blend with gun oil, the tin-like smell of armour. Fire and metal, the aromas of Clan Mortui. A hearty sigh bursts out of my lips, as Vahan readies his pistol and focuses on his target. Poor kid’s mouth hangs open, and I shut it gently, then help fix his stance with a kiss to the top of his mop of brown hair.

“There, bucko. Now, take a breath, release it and pull the trigger. That’s it.” He pulls the trigger and the blaster bolt hits near the edge of the target. Looking up, he smiles and I snug him against my side before standing back up. “See? Now, go on. Fire away, I’m expecting bullseyes by lunch time.”

A dragon’s shadow flicks past, recognizable after so many years. Gosh almost a decade. I rustle up to Hector and Isolde, grab them both by the scruffs of their armourweave jumpsuits and set them on their feet.

“Oy! Go tidy, fire some rounds at the targets and then you can see your father. Go on!” They scatter off, both grabbing their guns as another older Mortui chuckles and nods over to take up their training as I brush some dust off my trousers and armoured tunic. My hair okay? I stuff a couple of strands of my white hair into the braid, before noticing Adenn Kyramud take down a bundle of a child.

Oh no… not another orphan in this gal-derned galaxy. My strides shorten, as I stop preening to glance first at Vanessa Vale and second at my riduur.

“Kyramud! Gonna tell me where our littlest Mando came from? Hi there, sweetie, gimme a second now t’catch up, eh?” Looks a slip of a girl, nervous maybe? Out of her depth, which if I know Adenn, there’s one heck of a story and another bunk bed to add to one of the kids’ rooms. My approach is more cautious now, don't want to spook the child by having a six and a half foot tall Epicanthix woman trundle up at speed and loom over her like some form of buggin'.

 

[Adenn Kyramud]

Patiently watching and waiting on Vanessa, Adenn saw the gears turning in her head. She didn't know it yet, but whatever worries she had would be lost during training. When Mandos train you, you lose that fear and hesitation, you become something more, something better. One day Vanessa would be more, she would be better, and she would be the best. And that all started today. Smiling as she asked to train with a blaster first, Adenn nodded before rising to his feet.
"Sure thing adiik." Motioning to the racks of weapons, Adenn chuckled as he began to make his way there. "We have plenty of blasters to play around with."

Adenn didn't manage much more than that before he heard a familiar voice, along with equally familiar names. Turning in that direction, Adenn was greeting by the sight of his family. Smiling as he saw them, Adenn was thankful for the reminder that he was well and truly home, and that Vanessa could meet her buir and ner'vod soon. Keeping a hand on Vanessa's back, Adenn walks towards Aditya and chuckles at Aditya's antics.
"Gladly c'yare." With a broad smile, Adenn releases Vanessa before stepping closer to Aditya. Giving her a kiss, Adenn wraps an arm around her shoulder. Then he speaks a mix of Epicant and Mando'a to her. "Surprise, another adiik to the family! Former slave I freed yesterday, she wanted a home, I gave her one. Adopted her today. I couldn't just leave her to fend for herself on Coruscant. And it was slavers, the chakaar got what was coming for them."

Giving Aditya another peck, Adenn switched back to Basic and addressed both Aditya and Vanessa.
"C'yare, this is Vanessa. Vanessa, this is my riduur, my wife, Aditya. Your new buir, or mother. She's a ball of chaos when she wants to be, but that runs in the family." Shaking his head with mirth, Adenn motions over his shoulder to the triplets. "Those are our adiik, the triplets of doom. Hector, Isolde, and Vahan. They're continuing blaster practice I see, maybe Vanessa and them can practice together?"

With a laugh, Adenn patted Aditya on the rump before continuing with a smile.
"Regardless, introductions are in order! And then we can start with blaster practice."

Vanessa Vale | Aditya Fitz Kierke

 

[Vanessa Vale]

Adenn Kyramud Aditya Fitz Kierke

"That sounds gre..." was all she could say as something caused her to immediately go silent. Vanessa was going to start in the direction of the Blaster range to start her practicing, but the sudden voice and appearance of a woman startled her a bit. Her expression grew into a mixture of nervousness and unease. She wasn't used to talking with people so freely, or even being around others normally in so long. With an explanation from Adenn that this was her new adoptive mother, Vanessa's face lit up a bit. She was still a couple of paces away from Aditya before she edged closer. Vanessa's eyes glanced up and down the woman, she may be her new mother, but she was still curious what she would be like around her. She hadn't had anyone for a mother since before she became a slave in trading.

As Adenn gestured to the 3 children at the range, Vanessa felt a growing nervousness in her gut again. People were one thing, but children were another all together. But the fact that they were Adenn's kids allowed Vanessa to start to uncurl from her internal protective shell. It was easily to tell that she wanted to give the right impression right off the bat, but was unsure of what she could do. "Hello, Miss Aditya," Vanessa spoke, her voice slightly quiet and shaky as she stepped forwards, her hands at her sides in a polite way, "My name is, Vanessa Vale. I'm your new... daughter." That last word was a bit confusing to her. It had been so long, she had forgotten what it was like being a daughter to someone, let alone having a parent as well. But she now had two new parents, and 3 siblings as well. Her sky blue eyes shone in the daylight as she looked into Aditya's own face.

Her left hand started to move towards Aditya by a small amount before she looked to the ground and moved her hand back. Her expression was slightly hidden due to her height, but it was a combination of confusion and embarrassment at having failed to even move towards her adoptive mother any further. Why was she finding it hard to even ask for something simple like a hug or handshake. Vanessa guessed that all those years locked up in a cage by some slaver scum all those years must have knocked her basic interaction skilled out of commission for a bit. At least she could talk.

 

[Aditya Fitz Kierke]

That face. The rugged chin, his dark hair and the way he looks a bit dishevelled when he takes off his buy’ce brings me back to that day in my cottage on the Cadera estate, when he first took his helmet off… Gods… Am I breathless? No! No, not at my age, after all I’ve seen and done… maybe a little bit breathless at the sight of my riduur. My lips gaggle a bit, and before I know, I’m in his arms and he’s kissing me and the universe can bloody well wait for a few dang minutes. A tiny whimper creeps out of my throat, as he explains where our new daughter came from.

“Damn slavers, glad they got what was coming, if I know you at all I know they got a good comeuppance…” Can’t help the smile, or the way my forehead goes down to touch his as he speaks to me in my native tongue, Epicant. A bit of smattered Mando’a. “… proud of you, c’yare. She’ll be our baby girl and I’ll get Milly to help get a bunk ready in Isolde’s room until we git her one of her own.”

My arm slips around his back, watching the man with his new girl. Thing about Mandalorians, they love easy and never forget the pains. They bring lost little ones in and offer virgin snow, a fresh start with no memory of any ills. Nothing matters but bringing in the ones who need it, and then? There’s no difference between a born child and a found one. As I look down at this sorry little thing, all I want to do is open up and hug her. Bring her in, teach her the ways so when the time comes, she can hit back stronger than the universe could attack.

What else can a parent do for their kids?

“Sweetie pie, none of that now, no Miss Aditya. If Adenn’s done adopt you, you’re mine too. Buir, or Mom or Mama does fine, now.” Poor thing, looks in a straight. Fit to be tied if I get the gist of it. Times like this, I wished my Basic was stronger without the old spacer’s accent, who taught me the tongue when I left Panatha. Leave it to Adenn to adopt another traumatized child, when my first probably looked a bit like this when Ambrose found her orphaned. Is this my lot for dying on Yash? Ending up with a little one like Vanessa Vale ?

“Now now. Oooh, oh oh. Y’ain’t allowed to be a bundle of nerves around us. Rest of the universe, fine, take your time to acclimatize, you deserve it. But with you and I and your Daddy?” I get down on my haunches, close enough to touch her and offer my arm for a hug. “Y’ain’t gonna fear, be nervous, or be embarrassed around us. Now c’mere. Come let me mother ya and give you a big ole’hug. Then, we’ll meet your siblings. Hector, Isolde and Vahan are up over there getting some blaster training just like you, while our other three little ones are with Milly today. They’re toddlers yet, and don’t got a place on the gun range until they’re sensible enough to avoid dying.”

If she lets me, I’ll pick the child up, cuddle her in a fierce and protective hug. The wonder of it, isn’t it? Whether a child so wounded could trust? “Now don’t you worry about where you came from. Our daughter Tamar Gred was a slave, we’ve seen this before. She’s now a happily married woman, kids of her own and her riduur Mig Gred spoils her senseless. Whatever pain you got today? We’ll help you through until you can be strong, and happy. All we need from you is to try, and to learn how much we’ll love ya and share that love around to your siblings. Deal?”

Before I can even attempt anything more, who comes running up like a speeder, but Isolde and Hector.

“BUIR! Buir! Buir and Buir! Buiiiiir! Who’s this?! Who is she? Is she o-oh my goooooseeeeees!” Isolde starts hopping up and down, her blaster in the dirt by Adenn’s boots. “DADDY GAVE US A SISTER! AW MY GOOSES!!!”

The girl shrieks as loud as an eight year old could, jumps up and down like a form of kangaroo. “I got a sister! A real one! I’m not the only girl anymooooore!”

“Thank you Buir, thank you! Eeeeeee!” Isolde launched at Adenn Kyramud to hug his leg, beaming up from hazel eyes and brunette hair so like her daddy’s. “We’re gonna be sisters, and we’re gonna share a rooooooom and and the boys will have to beware cause I’ve got a sister now and… and… and… what’s your name!? Has you fired a blaster before!? I’m learning! You can learn with me!”

“No, she’s gonna learn with me!” Hector huffed up, both hands on his little eight year old hips. “She might be a giiiirl, but she’s gonna learn right.”

“All girls can shoot, idjit.” Isolde stuck her tongue out, still clinging to Adenn’s leg. Vahan stands in the middle, still holding his blaster like a prized possession and his poor neck switching between his more lugubrious siblings.

I can’t help but burst with a chuckle, still offering my arms to Vanessa.

“Van’ika, the trips are a bit loud, but they mean well. And now Issy ain’t outnumbered so bad. Give ‘em a chance? And kids! Settle. Vanessa’s a bit tender after the journey. Inside voices, and y’all’ll have a chance to git t’know’er.”

 

[Adenn Kyramud]

Smiling with an arm around Aditya, Adenn's smile faltered as Aditya said he gave them a comeuppance. His response was still a mix of Epicant and Mando'a, but more reserved.
"I broke them, but couldn't kill them. I had jetii help, and you know how squishy they can be regarding death. So now the scum rot in prison, too good for their lot."

Observing Vanessa, Adenn felt it wise to not try and push her too far. He'd let her naturally show her true self, and allow Aditya to shine as well. Nevertheless, the hesitance was something Adenn knew would disappear, most likely sooner than later. It was a simple fact with Mandalorians, they were usually brash and open, something that would bring Vanessa out. Smiling as Aditya works her magic, Adenn lets her go to do her thing. At the same time though, Adenn would ruffle Vanessa's hair to show he was still there, always watching.

Before he can do anything else, his bundle of joy arrives and is as excitable as ever. Grinning widely at Isolde's antics, Adenn ruffles her hair as well. Then the other triplets arrive and Adenn is completed. Laughing as they argue, Adenn swoops in at the end and picks Isolde up in his arms, craddling her close.
"Now now adiiks, you're all going to learn the right way. And you're going to learn from your buirs, both of us."

"Daaaaad!" Ignoring Isolde's plead, Adenn swoops in and picks Hector up as well. Immediately Hector begins to push at Adenn, trying to climb his father. Laughing, Adenn hoists both of his children up onto his shoulder. This brings forth squeals of joy from them as they balance on his shoulders, holding onto his armor and head to remain on top. They begin to push at each other, trying to knock the other twin off until Adenn moves his hands up and starts tickling both of them.

Turning to Vanessa, Adenn nudges Vahan towards her with a smile, still tickling Isolde and Hector, as evidenced by their shrieks of laughter. Vahan on the other hand, he takes a few steps towards Vanessa and gives her an inquisitive look, head tilted somewhat. Then with an eye roll to the antics of his father and siblings, Vahan speaks up.
"Welcome to clan crazy, population us." Smiling at Vanessa, Vahan nodded to her. "I'm Vahan, welcome to the family."

Vanessa Vale | Aditya Fitz Kierke

 

[Vanessa Vale]

Adenn Kyramud Aditya Fitz Kierke

As Adenn and Aditya... no, her new Father and Mother talked about her and their family, Vanessa felt a little overwhelmed. She had entered not only a simple couple's life, but the life of many others. Hearing how a bunkbed was going to be put together with the only other girl of the siblings was a comfort. She'd not have to be in a room with all of them. That might to much in one go. Slow starts was what she felt were best. But the offer of a hug was still there. Vanessa was unsure of how to react, but she pushed herself to act.

Her arm raised again as her new Mother talked, giving her comfort about not having to worry around them, placing a hand on her offered arm before meeting body to body against Aditya. Vanessa's arms embraced the woman as she found herself melting into the hug as her body was lifted of the ground. Instead of freaking out like she had thought, she found it very warm. Her head slowly rested on Aditya's shoulder before muttering quietly so only the woman could hear, "I almost forgot how this felt. A mothers embrace..." Vanessa's voice was soft, yet also a bit wobbly as emotions writhed within her. She had held in so many emotions for so long, she almost forgot what some peace of mind was like to experience. She had feared for so long that she would be beaten by the Slavers or given to some slimy scum that all her happiness and joys she had ever felt before temporarily expired. But now, it was all coming back to her. The joys of being a part of a family. The happiness of being held by a mother. She couldn't remember her own mother's face, but the feeling was there.

The sudden appearance of the triplets was a bit jarring, but she didn't let it show. She had too much on her mind to leave the embrace of Aditya. The girls words stuck with her. She had a brother, not to mention he was older than her, but being an elder sister was a unique prospect. She had someone who would look up to her. It was daunting, but also a welcomed feeling. The young lad, Vahan's words of welcome did give Vanessa a bit of a chuckle as she let go of Aditya and landed on her own feet. Turning to the young boy, she looked him in the eyes and said, "Thanks for the warm welcome, Vahan. I'm Vanessa, I hope we get on well." Her soft face finally, cracked into a smile as she looked at the remaining siblings. "I hope we all get on well," Her voice was louder so the other two could hear as she beamed at her Mother and Father. Adoptive or not, they were her new family and she liked it that way.

Turning to the young girl, Isolde, Vanessa smiled softly. "I'm Vanessa, and I've not ever held a blaster. I've held a knife, but never used it. Though, I was temped to, I didn't let myself," Vanessa said, her voice slightly trailing off at the end, remembering the Slaver she almost killed during the rescue attempt Adenn and that other man did to save them. Snapping back to her senses, she looked to the family around. "So," Vanessa started as she gave a soft clap of her hands, "Shall we get to that training?" Her attitude had changed so much. It was amazing what a hug from someone what special could bring out. She had give Adenn a few hugs so far, but a Mother's one was truly something amazing.

 

[Adenn Kyramud]

Observing Vanessa, Adenn was very glad that she was happy. He was also glad that she wasn't too stunned by so many new siblings. Hopefully the triplets of doom wouldn't be too overzealous, but Adenn was sure Vanessa would be fine with some guidance, and Adenn and Aditya managing the triplets. At the response from Vanessa, Vahan simply smiled before returning to observing his blaster, already planning on taking it apart. As for Adenn, he finally let Isolde and Hector down, after tickling them one last time.

They tumbled to the ground and simply kept giggling, even as Adenn smiled at them. Isolde and Hector eventually stood up, still smiling like crazy, and pushing each other around for the heck of it. Turning to Vanessa, Isolde beamed at her upon hearing the news.
"Then we can shoot together!"

Rushing towards her, Isolde grabbed Vanessa's hand and led her to the weapons rack. All the while she was rambling on and on about how much fun they'd have shooting together, and that they could fight back against the boys together. Trailing behind them was Vahan, already making his way to a shooting spot. Turning to Aditya, Adenn gave her another kiss, before turning to Hector. Ruffling his sons hair, Adenn pushed him towards the shooting spots as well.

Turning to Aditya, Adenn smiled at her before motioning to their children.
"So c'yare, which dangerous pair do you want to wrangle?"

Vanessa Vale | Aditya Fitz Kierke
OOC- So, similar to typical shooting ranges. Every shooter has their own box where they stand in and shoot from. But the range is an open field, half the targets are moving, half are stationary. Ranges going up to 500m, and all targets within 5 shooting boxes are open to the individual.