Faction Bright Tide Rising [RNR]

[Dagos Terrek]

Objective: Investigate
Tags: Ilwynog Cysgod Kuhbee

"Man, why I gotta do that?" Dagos asked.

Joran didn't answer. Well, not with his words but the look he gave Dagos was a pretty good answer. It was the same stupid look the old smuggler got whenever he thought Dag was pouting. Dag got that look all the fething time and that chit was dumb as hell; Dagos didn't pout, he just didn't always agree, and he ain't never kept quiet about it.

Dagos decided he would wait all day for Joran to answer if that was how long it took, kark that old man for trying to clown him.

"I'm just sayin man, why can't I… I dunno…go help with the gungans or I heard some of them monsters got away too, I'll go kark them up," Dagos fething hated monsters.

"No, go play Jedi." Joran told him.

"I ain't no fething Jedi, Joran man," Dagos said sharply.

"That's why I said play one not be one," Joran said. "Listen, mate, the Jedi, the Queen, they want to know what happened right? What caused this whole frakking mess,eh? Well, if we figure it out or just find a lead in how to figure it out, mate, that's a blessing to us."

Joran was always trying to squeeze profit from somewhere.

"Play the advantage," Dag said

"And if you don't have one?"

"Find one."

That chit was so much easier to say than it was to do, he realized sifting through some rubble near where he had run into the nether creature he had tangled with. Seriously, what the frell was he even looking for? Joran was on some bantha chit forreal.

Hell Dagos had even asked Joran what he was supposed to do.

"Use The Force," had been Joran's suggestion.

That ain't how the karking Force works

The Force didn't work that way but that didn't mean it didn't work. There was a tug on Dag's intuition, sort of like a nagging feeling that he simply forgot where he was supposed to go but now that he got this far things started to feel familiar and the idea of where to go was becoming less and less opaque by the step.

Dagos followed this feeling for how long, he couldn't say, but it wasn't far far. As he walked the streets he could see men and women hard at work. Machinery clanked and honked and smogged through the streets clearing rubble. Men, women, human, and alien both helped the hurt and lost who were still being found days after the attack. Twice Dagos had stopped to help a group of volunteers or some chit calling themselves The Foundation. Dagos didn't mind these guys, one of them gave him a beer for helping.

Before not too long something tugged at his intuition, there were more forcers close by. Dagos didn't have the skill or experience to know whether they were lightsiders or darksiders, whatever that chit meant.

Dag hung back a bit cautious to reveal himself to the other Force users, he could sense two of them, that wasn't beyond his skill, actually identifying separate presences in The Force was something he had excelled at way before he ever took a lesson from The Jedi. The sound of shyriiwook drew Dagos excitedly closer to the other two guys he sensed with surprisingly fond memories of his time with the Silver Jedi on Kashyyk.

"You think that one's big you shoulda seen one I took out!" Dagos said with a smile approaching the pair. “What ya’ll doing?”

 

[Joran Del-Finn]

​

Tags: Lorn Reingard Kalantha Nakâtu Ee'everwest Casstil Zirkonn Mother Askani Aiden Porte

Joran entered the assembly clapping loudly and overzealously when the grey haired woman finished speaking.

"What a speech! What sentiment! The goodness and grace of the people of Naboo inspires everyone, truly a beautiful thing to see," the voice of Captain Joran Del-Finn rang off the marble walls and ornate pillars with such practised sincerity as to sound a touch insincere.

"Beautiful, no doubt about it, and yet I find it very troubling." Joran lowered his eyes to his perfectly polished shoes and shook his head mournfully, his voice growing quite somber.

"Esteemed citizens of Naboo, honored guests, as lovely and as benevolent a solution as…Mother Askani, has offered," Joran made sure to say her name with as much skepticism as he could muster, which was only a touch more than he filled the word 'solution'. "I only have to ask 'Why?'" He paused to let the question linger in the air.

"Why should we send our people, hurt as they are, displaced as they are, in as much need as they are, away from their home, away from Naboo!? It is Naboo that need step up now and serve her people!" He proselytized

A murmur began. Whether it was one of agreement of dissent he could not say, nor did he care too.

"Twice now, this…Queen," he turned his attention now toward the young monarch. "Has seen her people assaulted and killed by creatures from another dimension," the room quieted some "twice she has pledged to return Naboo to prominence, pledged to protect and restore our peoples. Are these empty promises?" He stared the Queen in the eye as he asked his last question, his look so expectant, so challenging that the assembly perhaps even the Queen herself must have thought he wanted an answer from her.

He did not. He pressed on almost immediately after asking.

"No! They are not empty, they are full of hope, full of intent, full of purpose but our venerable monarch can not be counted on for the restoration of this world by herself, and neither should she be forced to accept the help of outsiders at the cost of losing her people to other worlds! Naboo must get to her feet through her own will and the will of her people! We must extend our hands, our hearts, our homes, to our neighbors, we must show them and the rest of the galaxy alike that Naboo shines as brightly as she ever has and that we have strength none have counted on!"

"What more can we do?" Coughed the old man who had stood to speak during Mother Askani's address. The man was likely only a few years older than Joran but wore his age far more prominently with wrinkled features and hair that had gone white.

"Anything! Everything!"

"And just who are you, exactly?" The man sputtered.

"You may not know me, Minister Monoroco, but I do know you. My name is Joran Del-Finn and I am a citizen of Naboo. A citizen who is not only willing to do their part but eager to do that and more. If anyone here has spent any time in Keren City, you are likely familiar with me even if not directly, as founder and proprietor of Fortune's Favorite limited my reach in that city is vast."

Joran's company Fortune's Favorite, named after the Houk smuggler, Rendar Fortune, who mentored Joran when he first got in the business, had in the last three years grown immensely but almost entirely just in Keren City. Joran owned and operated nearly any kind of business one could think of.

At present he owned thirty-two manufacturing plants in the industrial district, another twelve on the outskirts of the mercantile district that focused not on mechanics but textile or foodstuff, six apartment complexes in each district for a total of twelve, two residential developments, two dozen dual family homes in the poorer part of the city, a handful of ranches that operated near the plains of Naboo, four landing pads at Kwilaan spaceport, also Merrick's a pub in Keren which also served as Joran's office. It was his smuggling…shipping business however that brought in the highest amount of credits.

"Maybe you have drank at my bar, if you have keep your eyes open in the next few months, we just acquired a distillery and good things are coming, yeah?" He shot a sly wink at Mother Askani.

Joran went on "Maybe you know someone who takes advantage of the affordable housing we provide, or someone who works at one of the factories? Maybe you've retained my service to deliver or receive merchandise that is regularly hard to come by,"

"I do know you," the minister said, now returned to his seat. "You sir, are a smuggler, a swindler, and a slum lord!"

"I am a citizen of Naboo!" Joran said trying to sound offended by Monoroco's entirely accurate accusations. "And I am doing more than nearly anyone else assembled in the room to try and save her. Certainly more than you."

Monoroco turned a deep shade of red beneath the white of beard. He looked entirely appropriate for the lifeday celebrations that were sure to come soon.

"Your Majesty,” he addressed the Queen again.

“I offer as many apartments or homes that I have available to house as many displaced as possible, there are jobs in Keren for those looking for work as well,"

Joran thought he could hear a snort and the word 'slum' spoken under someone's breath.

They were not slums, well not all of them, he provided affordable housing to those who worked in his factories at very nice rates, some even for free, and with food provided, with the obvious notion of docking pay from their checks not exactly to the point of indentured servitude but not exactly not that either.

"What's more is that using my own funds, I have put a task force into the streets of Theed to investigate the cause of the tragedy that happened,"

Joran did not feel it necessary to explain that his "task force" was an eighteen year old former padawan that dreamed of being an outlaw.

"And have taken it upon myself to see to a solution to the Gungan issue."

Joran again did not see the point in mentioning that his solution was to rile up a bunch of ranchers, who it must be mentioned were failing at their jobs to protect his livestock from these raiders, and send them out into the swaps with rifles.

"I have not come here today to brag nor lower any opinion on her grace the Queen. No, quite the opposite, our Queen Kalantha, requires out support and your majesty, I pledge you my support, I pledge all of Naboo my support and it is with great humility I stand before all here assembled and announce my intention to contest the seat of Minister Monoroco in the very near election. I have put blood, sweat, and credits into Naboo and would give even more to see her prosper again."

He would see himself prosper as well.

 

[Lysander von Ascania]

BYOO
Tags: Corazona von Ascania | Roman Vossari

​

Once next to Roman, he set up his fishing pole. Anticipation was already buzzing. Remembering their last meeting on Ukatis, he recalled specific moments from that day that influenced later events, which he was super eager to share. "It's so good to see you too! I've been waiting for this moment for days!" His excitement was palpable.

As Lysander looked at Cora, his smile became warmer than the sun on Naboo. His emerald orbs sparkled with affection rather than their usual mischievous glint. As he caught her gaze, he couldn't resist mirroring her finger wave with his own.

“Oh, I’m definitely not mad about that sis,” he said, the words rolling off his tongue effortlessly. The Padawan instantly forgot the weight of all his worries, allowing the current moment to completely envelop him. “I guess I should thank you for my fancy wardrobe. Not to mention, good looks run in the family.” There was a small pause. "And I've really missed you too."

He watched as Roman tore straight into the basket of snacks; it was a comical sight that brought out a soft laugh from Lysander. It was nice to see his friend enjoying the simple pleasures of life. "Yeah, I remember," he said with a grin. "I actually went fishing once since moving here, but I didn't have much luck." He chuckled, the memory being one of complete frustration.

As if drawn to a magnet, his eyes were pulled towards Roman's neck. He searched for the pendent that had been imbued in the river. A sly smirk formed as he then took a moment to gather his words. “By the way, I followed your counsel from our last meeting.” His voice was full of confidence. It was like he knew the outcome before it ever happened. "And I must say, everything went exactly as planned."

The boy watched as his sister struggled with the bait. Her determination was almost admirable. "At this rate, it’s going to take her all day. I'm guessing she’s already gotten another manicure since arriving in Theed?" He shook his head. “I have no doubt she has the most well kept nails in the New Jedi Order.”

Glancing down at his own hands, he realized he wasn’t too keen himself on handling it either. His nose wrinkled at the thought.

 

[Briana Sal-Soren]

Outfit: XoXo | Equipment: Lightsaber, Echo Stone | Tag: Vizion Trozky , Kahne Porte , Joro Kal'nath , Lossa Aureus ​

"Northeast," Briana confirmed, passing a glance towards Viz. Her focus had sharped in on the corrupted Force signature she'd picked up on earlier and had only needed his confirmation to be positive that what she was feeling was correct. Nether creatures tended to leave an unmistakable taint - like oil floating on water, and Briana had encountered enough of them through the first Cataclysm and the mess from a day ago, to recognize their particular brand of wrong.

Just as they were about to ready a final plan, one of the newer students who'd been brought along with them on today's assignment, set out on his own without waiting for any orders. Briana blinked a couple of times before exhaling heavily and briefly pinching the bridge of her nose, just between her eyes. Shiraya help her with these Padawans.

Blessedly, her long legs meant it only took her a few brisk strides to catch up to the wayward Joro, boots sinking into the softened ground, rain-slicked dark hair sticking against her reddened cheeks, settling in alongside him. Briana raised a manicured brow and walked with him for a few steps in silence, a sideways glance eventually passed to the Falleen. His frustration was palpable through the Force, but Briana had no context for what had him so riled up.

"So, there a reason why you're in such a hurry to ditch the rest of us? You know it'll be easier to take on this pack of nasties when we've got each other's backs, increases our odds of returning fully intact." Her gaze flicked away from him and over her shoulder, making sure that Kahne and Viz were following. "Rushing headlong almost never ends well, especially not against these sort of monsters. That's why you were assigned to work on a team," These creatures had nearly taken her and Viz both down during the first Cataclysm, and she'd had the backup of her Master back then. Briana paused, pursing her lips before adding, "and if you can't be a team player, then I'll have no choice but to send you back to the Temple. Which would honestly be a waste. Because if we didn't think you had potential, didn't think you could help, then you wouldn't be here."

She'd let her words sink in and leave the 'conversation' there for him to mull over, eyes narrowing on what looked like dark shadows dancing in the distance ahead. "We've got movement!"

​

 

[Kahne Porte]

“I can do you one better, Master Porte,

a few moment’s patience, and I’ll have us a solid lead on one or more of those things.”

“So, northeast, or...?”

"Very impressive." The Jedi Master nodded to him with much respect as he watched him go about his work. "I'm glad you are with us my friend." The Jedi Master said with a smile as he glanced northeast and it was just then that their Padawan companion Joro Kal'nath went off on his own. And before he could say anything Master Briana Sal-Soren went off after him and then he gave a small jerk of his head towards Knight Trozky. "We should get going my friend. Everyone else keep your eyes open and report in with any unusual activity. "

It wasn't too long before they caught up with them as Briana was lecturing the young padawan, rightfully so. Too often the Padawan's wanted to charge off, they were strong. But they weren't as strong as they thought. It was still a dangerous place, and without help one mistake could lead to their downfall.

"Patience my friend, that is something you must learn first. We've all had to learn it growing up." The Jedi Master gave him a encouraging smile, as he knew what it was like when he was a Padawan. The Grandmasters lecture was indeed warranted, he would have to learn quick. The Galaxy was more dangerous than it led on.

Naboo in this part of the galaxy seemed to the be the front for conflict.

"We've got movement!"

"Form up!" The Jedi Master spoke in a calm manner, as the creatures in the distant were being drawn to them. A little over a hundred yards out...

Vizion Trozky Lossa Aureus

 

[Nakâtu Ee'everwest]

Wearing: XoXo | Tag: Casstil Zirkonn , Kalantha , Lorn Reingard , Mother Askani , Joran Del-Finn
​

The soft tap of heeled boots against marble—a rhythm she should have known as intimately as her own heartbeat—never even registered in her mind.

"Are you sneaking about, Nik-nack?"

Casstil's voice, just inches from her, sent goose prickles along her arms, her entire body jerking in a small, sharp leap that would have been comical if not for the hushed hallway. Quickly, she covered her mouth with one hand to stifle the surprised and undignified sound that managed to squeak out of her mouth, trying to retain some level of decorum so as to not disturb the proceedings happening and bring unwanted attention to herself.

Pivoting with the quickness of a Nexu, spine straight as a perfectly drawn sketch line, Nakatu turned to look at Casstil, her green eyes wide, a flush of color filling her face and making the smattering of freckles across her nose and cheeks seem somehow more prominent.

"I wasn't sneaking," she corrected, though her mild protest seemed to fall flat. "I was... observing..." That's too unspecific. "...Information gathering." She tried, carefully smoothing out the velvet of her deep-blue gown and giving herself a quick once over to make sure everything was still in place. "Poorly," she finally admitted with a sigh.

"We'll walk in together. And you can blame me if they ask why you are late."

Nakatu watched as his hand rose like an offer, and out of some natural instinct she felt herself compelled to take it, fingers extending... only to reach for nothing. Mortified by her own misinterpretation, she watched as his hand dropped, adjusted his already perfectly sharp uniform. Crisp. Official-like. Her fingers curled back into her palm and pulled in close to her chest, gaze turning downwards to study the intricate patterns in the marble floor with sudden interest.

After a few moments of floor watching and once her face felt less on fire, her eyes rose to look at him, a sheepish smile alighting on her lips. "Well...blaming you does seem traditional at this point," she finally answered, allowing herself one small moment of familiar teasing. Then, more seriously, "I'm glad you're here, Cass." Even if she knew he was here more out of duty than choice.

Having been caught up in the, unfortunate moment, it took her a second to register the towering figure lingering just beyond their immediate space, waiting on them. Someone she didn't recognize, but didn't seem entirely out of place, and giving off a general feeling that he almost wanted to be noticed. Their eyes met for just a moment, long enough for her to feel the calculated assessment in his gaze, long enough to feel something shift in the air around him.

It made her uncomfortable.

Turning briskly towards the doors, she nodded to Cass. "Shall we?"

Inside, the chamber felt different from anything Nakatu imagined during her studies. Rows of nobles and officials filled the space, their whispers creating a low background hum vibrating with tension. Taking carefully measured steps, aware of every eye that might be watching them, Nakatu led her and Casstil to her families designated seat, a small marker of Shiraya's crescent moon embroidered on the headrest. Not front and center, but close enough that they could observe and listen. Thankfully, no one seemed to pay them much mind, not since the Queen had opened the floor.

A beautiful older woman, who referred to herself as Mother Askani, was the first to step forward and speak. She was well articulated, her approach measured, offering relocation and resources without anything in return. It seemed a little odd that all they would want in exchange was a hub on their planet to operate from, but overall, from the surface, the woman's proposal seemed practical. Doable.

Then the other man stepped forward, the one who'd come in behind them.

The shift in the room's energy was palpable as he took the stage. Where Mother Askani had offered structure, growth, and compassion, this man presented what she could only sum up as performative patriotism. Loud, passionate, words designed in a way to stir pride.

As discreetly as possible, she passed a disbelieving glance towards Casstil, promptly removing a datapad hidden in the custom pockets she'd had sown into her dress, taking her stylus in hand and beginning to jot down notes, making a list of both individuals proposals and the pros and cons of what they offered.

 

[Joro Kal'nath]

ATTIRE: Jedi Robes, Lightsaber (blue)
TAGS: Vizion Trozky | Briana Sal-Soren | Kahne Porte

"Didn't stop you from following me, did I?" he asked as Knight Sal-Soren caught up to him. "So I didn't ditch you. I figured you'd catch up. Need more doing and less talking when lives are at stake."

Though he was annoyed at her words, he chose not to allow it to bother him. Why? Because it didn't matter in the end. He knew why he was there, really, and it was because he'd been assigned to be there. It didn't matter that she wanted him or not, his master had told him to go and so he did. That and he was very good at killing things, especially things that were desirous of doing harm to others for no reason other than the fact they existed. Which, was basically what the nether creatures were after.

He was not the low level padawan that needed to be worried over at every moment. What he needed was to do something. In this case, he needed to fight some monsters, get his blood flowing, do something. Besides, standing around just wasn't good for him. He was a cold-blooded species and standing around had a tendency to make him lethargic, even if they were under the sun.

Movement caught their eyes and he drew his saber into his hand, activating it immediately. The blue blade sprang forth, though he didn't rush off into them. He might be impatient, but that didn't mean he was stupid. This was a large enough group that he couldn't fight them alone. He didn't say another word to Briana, but moved closer to her, nearly touching, his saber raised as he formed up alongside of her, leaving Kahna and Vizion to form up however they deemed best for them.

 

[Casstil Zirkonn]

Wielding: PbBP-01 S.I., PGEM/CB-001 | Wearing: Royal Naboo Security Force Attire​

Her sound of surprise was met with a warm smile. A sound that he was still allowed to hear on occasion that pulled at a certain feeling he thought that had been put away some time ago. A feeling his family had in the past, either turned a blind eye to or casually mentioned when seated across from him at the dinner table. A feeling he would have to be more mindful of with recent events at home.

His smile growing wider with each excuse she made as he examined her more closely.

"We might miss some details out here, but, I'm glad I got to see you first." He offered quietly.

His smile faltering as her hand rose in that familiar way to meet his own. A habit they had apparently not broken since coming to an age where the motion could be seen as something more than it was.

Never mind how desperately he wanted it to be more than what it had been in the past. Familiar. Welcome. Wanted even. But machinations prevented him from acting on such whimsy. Gave him pause to even believe he could allow it go beyond that friendly comfort. Especially in so public a way. The reminder of why he kept himself to such restrictions did not keep his chest from aching at the sight of her dismay.

From wanting to correct the situation. To reassure her in some small way. Acting as though he failed to notice the hurt, he averted his gaze to the ceiling while adjusting his collar once more.

Noting the sidelong glances being cast their way by the door guards before they found something else of interest to examine.

Their attentions meeting once more as she looked up at him, her smile met with his own. Pushing past the moment with that growing solemnity that had formed. Her words drawing out a grin that he reserved especially for her as he nodded along as she spoke.

"I think everyone would more surprised that I had not found a chance to waylay you if you should ever arrive in a timely manner." His own teasing given back. The day seeming all the brighter as he stood there with her. The subtle tone shift from her not quite taking the sincerity out of his next words.

"Always a pleasure." His eyes lingering on her as she glanced past him. The flanking guards silent as the grave as he turned enough to see who had intruded on the moment.

A cautious air creeping into his jovial mood as something about the man irked him.

Before anything could come of it, she directed his attention forward to the meeting. Opening the door for her to enter first as he shadowed her every step before placing himself just within sight behind and beside her chair. A reverent look shared to the Queen and her cadre of attendants and guards.

Listening intently to those that spoke while keeping his opinions and thoughts to himself. A woman, older and seeming too worldly for the unassuming way she dressed, followed after the queen spoke. The request drawing his attention given the lack of return from operating on the planet as a hub. While he would have wanted to hear more about the subject, the man from the hallway was next to speak.

And everything about him and his words rubbed Casstil the wrong way.

He'd heard of the bar, and the patrons that frequented it. The guards had a few choice phrases for the place and none of them would be uttered within polite company let alone in the assembly gathered today. His eyes met the look Nakâtu sent his way as they shared in the distrust they had placed on that impassioned speech.

Nakâtu Ee'everwest | Kalantha | Lorn Reingard | Mother Askani | Joran Del-Finn​

 

[Lorn Reingard]

Tags: Kalantha | Mother Askani | Joran Del-Finn | Nakâtu Ee'everwest | Casstil Zirkonn

​

Lorn watched the Queen, her voice measured and precise, yet carrying the weight of a thousand unspoken anxieties. She spoke of unity, of rebuilding, of hope – carefully chosen words, polished to a sheen that mirrored the floor beneath his feet. He saw the calculated fragility in her bearing, the carefully constructed mask of composure. She's young, he thought, but she has a fire within her. A fire that needed to be carefully stoked, not extinguished by the turbulent winds of Naboo's politics.

The silence following her address felt heavy, filled with unspoken intentions. Mother Askani spoke first, her simplicity seemed to be a deceptive cloak; Lorn felt there was a strength behind her facade, a quiet power radiating from her that belied her unassuming attire. The Foundation…another piece of the puzzle that was Naboo's current landscape. He'd need to learn more.

Then came the giant. Lorn felt a tremor run through the floor, less from the man's physical presence and more from the sheer boldness that emanated from him. The man oozed self-importance.

Minister Monoroco's defiant response was predictable, almost childish in its indignation. Lorn's hand tightened on the vibroblade's hilt. He really didn't want to have to intervene in some political scuffle. The Minister's angry outburst only served to inflame the giant further. The last thing he needed was to get caught in the middle of a physical altercation between a pompous politician and a man who seemed capable of tearing down the entire court single-handedly. He really hoped Monoroco would simply swallow his pride and let the situation de-escalate. He just wanted this day to be over already. The challenge for Monoroco's seat felt like a direct threat, not just a political maneuver, and Lorn knew that this was going to be a long day.

 

[Corazona von Ascania]

BYOO
Roman Vossari Lysander von Ascania

​

Cora didn't try and hide her smile, not even as she raised a brow, a gentle warble of laughter in her tone. "And why would you have cause to be mad?"

Her expression grew fonder, to the point where she almost felt the sting of tears on her cornea.

"I've missed you too, Lysander."

While she worked at untangling the line, Cora took a moment to observe the pair interact. She'd seen them talking on Ukatis, but hadn't been close enough to hear much of what their conversation. Seeing Roman and her brother get along so well warmed her heart - they both deserved a good friend. Especially considering some of the younger blonde's difficulties in getting along with his peers.

Another glance at the two cemented her decision to save any serious admonishments for later. Today was about rest.

With her line as untangled as it was going to get, she tsked her way over to the lake.

"Even in times of war, Jedi often function as diplomats. Appearances are important."

She wiggled her fingers - nails freshly shaped with a coat of clear gloss - to illustrate both of their points. Before she'd come to the Order, Cora liked caring for her nails. Now that she only had one set to paint, she was a little more meticulous. It had helped to cope with the loss of her hand.

"What went to plan, exactly? Do tell.” She glanced from Roman to Lysander, then to the basket he’d arrived with. “Oh, did you bring peaches?”

Her brows furrowed as she looked down to the container of bait. The blonde swallowed hard, flesh hand hovering over the bucket of creepy crawlies.

 

[Roman Vossari]

BYOO
Lightsaber: X | Talisman: X | Armor: X | Training: X | Casual: X
Tags: Lysander von Ascania | Corazona von Ascania

​

Roman looked at Lysander and Cora, a grin spreading across his face. Their banter about wardrobes was amusing, he'd always considered his own attire reasonably impressive, but these Ukatians were on another level entirely.

He caught Lysander subtly searching for the pendant around his neck—the one he hadn't removed since Ukatis. A slight grin formed on his face.. "Oh, it went well? I'm glad she appreciated it." he replied, his voice a low murmur, referring to the use of Lysander's own imbued talisman.

His chuckle at Cora's nail comment was genuine. He watched her continue her struggle with the line and bair. He even noticed Lysander's own reluctance to touch the wriggling bait, a shared squeamishness that brought a familiar smile to Roman's lips. "Here..." he muttered, extending a hand towards the bucket. With practiced ease, he took the hook and skillfully impaled a wriggling worm, handing the baited hook to Lysander.

These Ukatians, he thought, need more time away from their pampered lives in castles and out in nature.

As Cora approached, Roman eyed Lysander carefully. He wouldn't betray his friend's confidence regarding the mysterious girl. Instead, he reached into the basket and selected a ripe peach, offering it to Cora. He then took Cora's fishing rod, quickly and efficiently baiting the hook for her as well. She probably wouldn't appreciate handling the bait either, he reasoned. Handing the rod back to her, he offered simple instructions, his voice gentle. "It's easy, just bait, cast your line, be patient and take in the view."

 

[Lysander von Ascania]

BYOO
Tags: Corazona von Ascania | Roman Vossari

​

Lysander responded to his sister's initial question with a cheeky shrug, followed by the much needed affirmation from her. His smile, though simple, radiated with brightness as he caught her gaze. It was a rare, and almost uncharacteristic moment of agreement. His mind churned with the comment about being a diplomat; it was something he truly aspired to be. “Between your eye for fashion, and Brandyn Sal-Soren 's teachings, I’m positive I can bring peace to the entire galaxy.”

Or more destruction than the Gulag Plague.

It didn’t take Cora long to infiltrate a discussion meant only for the boys. He fell silent, giving Roman plenty of time to bait both hooks and fetch the vibrant jewel. It seemed obvious; he knew the blonde’s preferences. Or so he thought. “Only the ripest on Naboo.”

But it was then he felt a flicker of gratitude; the older Padawan beside him was like having a shield against any incoming judgement. Lysander met him with a more.. conspiratorial look. "Pretty much perfect," he finally exclaimed. His thoughts wandered for a moment. "Just like a scene out of one of the shows I watch. Except I did it much better."

He approached the lake’s shores. “You know, Roman," the boy began in a sincere tone, "one day, after I inherit our family's properties, I'm totally giving you your own plot right next to my estate. We could be neighbors, right? That way we can hang out more whenever we're both not busy doing Jedi stuff."

There was a clear image of where the fishing line was supposed to land. With a flick of his wrist, it was cast into the lake. However, just as it happened on Ukatis, the final result didn't quite meet his expectations. The line veered far to the left with a splash. He looked at the others with an innocent smile, thinking some things never seemed to change.

“So, what’s new with both of you? Have you done anything recently that’s..uhh, actually fun?”

 

[Corazona von Ascania]

Cora brightened as she accepted the peach. Roman's offering and his help with the bait had been sufficiently distracting. She'd forgotten about whatever it was she'd asked them.

Bait, cast, patience. That sounded simple enough, and Roman had certainly made it look easy. She bit into the ripe fruit, humming with pleasure at the tangy sweetness.

"You're being taught by Brandyn Sal-Soren ?" Cora had to pause to swallow before frowning in thought, digging back into her memory bank. They'd met at a winter gala, and she'd found him to be a pleasant - if a little sassy - conversationalist. The whispers of his Darker deeds, however, troubled something protective in her. "Only for a few lessons, or…?"

Whatever Lysander spoke of next pulled her attention back to the mysterious conversation. Then, another bite of the peach, and he'd lead her away from the trail. Cora's instinct was to roll her eyes at the claim of inheritance, but there was something so sincere in her brother's voice that she couldn't bring herself to levy a jab.

"The weather is fair in the summer," she agreed as Lysander's cast went awry. She laughed softly at the splash.

Trying to mimics what he'd done, Cora too flicked her wrist. She was only using one hand - the other clutched around the peach - so her aim was askew. The rod was a little heavier than she'd anticipated, too, and her line tangled with Lysander's.

She gave it an experimental tug, at least having the grace to look sheepish.

"This counts as fun, right?"

Even if she'd scared away the fish, Cora could feel her more rigid mannerisms loosening. The weather, the company, the peach - they took her mind further away from the state of the galaxy and made her feel lighter.

Roman Vossari Lysander von Ascania

 

[Roman Vossari]

BYOO
Lightsaber: X | Talisman: X | Armor: X | Training: X | Casual: X
Tags: Lysander von Ascania | Corazona von Ascania

​

Roman nodded approvingly at Lysander, a subtle smile playing on his lips. He knew the young Padawan, with his regal bearing and underlying charm, was destined to be a ladies' man in due time.

Roman glanced out at the lake, letting the siblings reconnect, their easy banter a welcome sound. He didn't know much about this Brandyn Sal-Soren, but he was glad Lysander had a mentor, a consistent presence in his life.

The tranquility of the setting began to lull him into a peaceful haze until Lysander's offer jolted him back to the present. A plot of land next to Lysander's estate? Roman could practically see it now: two grand Ukatian-style castles nestled amidst rolling hills, their peaceful countryside existence a welcome respite from their Jedi duties. The image brought a genuine smile to his face.

"You hear that, Cora! I'm going to be some Ukatian Lord here soon." he joked, a playful lilt in his voice.

He watched the siblings' clumsy fishing attempts, a chuckle escaping him. Their casts were far from perfect, but their laughter and easy camaraderie were more than enough compensation. "This does count as fun." he agreed, breathing in the fresh, crisp air.

Pausing for a moment, he considered Lysander's question. What had he done for fun recently? Most of his time had been consumed by training and rigorous studies. But then, a memory surfaced – the Jedi Ball on Dantooine. A mischievous glint entered his eyes. "I didn't end up seeing you at the Jedi Ball, but I had quite the night then…" he admitted, a hint of playful mischief coloring his voice as he recalled some mildly scandalous escapades fueled by celebratory drinks.

 

[Lysander von Ascania]

BYOO

Tags: Corazona von Ascania | Roman Vossari

​

Lysander adjusted his grip on the fishing pole. He cocked his head slightly; a nod was given to convey his understanding, though a soft smile danced across his lips as he pondered the new dynamics. It felt promising. “Cora, Brandyn Sal-Soren is actually my Master now,” he said, his voice as smooth as the silk garments in his wardrobe. “So, there will definitely be more than just a few lessons. I believe he's got more backbone than what you're probably used to with the Galactic Alliance and New Jedi Order.”

The warm breeze tousled his blonde hair, and he found himself enjoying the peacefulness of the moment, which also matched the sincerity of his words delivered. Rather than fighting the urge, he shifted his weight slightly, maintaining a relaxed demeanor while inhaling another deep breath.

He felt a tug on his line, but it didn’t take long to realize his own had been entwined with Cora's. The boy pulled back on the pole and tried to reel it in, wondering if he could free it while glancing over to her. "Guess our sense of style is better than our fishing skills, huh?"

Turning toward Roman, his expression lightened. “I didn’t realize fishing required such.. finesse. Maybe even more than the Makashi form.” His tone dripped with sarcasm. “Perhaps I should just stick to dodging lightsabers and avoiding.. highly questionable people.” He paused for a moment. “Any good stories from the ball?”

He then offered a nonchalant shrug. “Honestly, I don’t foresee myself returning to Coruscant very often unless it’s absolutely required.”

 

[Corazona von Ascania]

"Mm, very well," Cora agreed to the idea of Roman receiving Ukatian Lordship. "As long as you don't outrank us!" She laughed, soft and light.

"He's your-"

Cora turned her head sharply towards Lysander, surprise written into her expression. After a few moments of staring, her brother did not crack one of his signature teasing smiles, meaning that this wasn't a joke.

But he didn't...neither of them had…

She hummed and reminded herself that neither Lysander nor Brandyn had to ask for her permission for this sort of thing. But she was still protective of her younger brother. Perhaps overly so. And just a bit saddened that he'd made this decision without seeking her council.

Her smile, though sweet, had a bit of an edge to it. "I'll have to speak with Brandyn Sal-Soren soon and congratulate him, then." She clicked her tongue as she too began to reel in her line. "And don't go shrugging off the Order so easily; you're still obligated to pay attention to your lessons here. If you do not, I will know."

Cora made a sound of acknowledgment from the back of her throat at mention of the ball. "Whatever happened to you Roman, it can't be worse than the piece of work I heard about. Apparently some drunk insulted Thurion Heavenshield and fell into a fountain!" She shook her head. "Can you believe it? Such a complete lack of decorum at a Jedi event."

Roman Vossari Lysander von Ascania

 

[Roman Vossari]

Tags: Lysander von Ascania | Corazona von Ascania

​

Roman laughed, a genuine, hearty sound that belied his inner turmoil. Outranking Lysander? The thought was absurd, hilarious even. Lysander, the future King of Ukatis? Right. That was the rumor, wasn't it? The weight of that potential his friends future pressed excited him, he assumed they would have grand adventures on Ukatis together.

Wind whipped through his hair, the shorter length a stark contrast to his previous, longer locks. No one had commented on the haircut, a small disappointment. He really quite liked it.

"Congratulations Lysander! I've heard great things about this Sal-Soren." he said, the lie smooth as butter. He hadn't heard anything – not a whisper, not a rumour. But he felt compelled to offer praise, to acknowledge his friend's new position.

"I hope you come visit us on Coruscant every once in a while though." he added, a touch of pleading in his voice, masking his desire to keep Lysander close.

He watched, fascinated, as the von Ascania fishing lines became a knot. Cora's sharp intake of breath followed by her questions about the ball threw him slightly. "Uh... you heard what?" he stammered, avoiding eye contact.

The memory of the incident, of Thirdas's overzealous interpretation of his words, still made his cheeks burn. He had to clarify, partially to defend himself, partially out of a sense of justice. "I heard Thirdas assaulted some seemingly well-mannered Padawan..." he corrected, trying to sound casual, hoping the lie would be more believable than the truth.

 

[Kalantha]

SO THIS IS POLITICS

There were many voices in the court today, but few caught the queen's ear quite like the mysterious Mother Askani and the equally enigmatic Foundation. She made no material requests of Naboo, only its blessing over the Foundation's endeavor to aide refugees throughout the Southern Systems. Kalantha had many questions about the nature of the Foundation's vast reservoir of resources, but she knew better than to look a gift horse in the mouth. The only fear she had was of indebting herself to an unfamiliar organization, but besides that caveat the queen saw no faults in this proposal.

Before she could offer her verbal acceptance of Mother Askani's offer, another voice levied itself upon the court. Joran Del-Finn came forward with a monologue that earned more than a few looks of concern from the gathered nobles and representatives. Even Kalantha herself, the model of decorum and courtly couthe, cast a sideways glance to Aiden Porte as the ruffian spoke both for and against the crown. When he was done, Kalantha realized that he had made much the same proposal as the Foundation, albeit much more centered on Naboo first and the foreign refugees second.

"Perhaps," the queen said clearly after a brief pause to absorb their words, "the difference can be split between both of your organizations."

"Mother Askani; if the Foundation pleases, it may use Naboo as a staging ground for its efforts to provide relief to those who have come to our system for protection. Be they displaced denizens of the Southern Systems or refugees from the Core, I grant the Foundation priviliges from the crown to support our foreign friends."

Kalantha nodded, then turned her gaze to Joran. She blinked as she sought the words to say. "Master Del-Finn; your desire to support your kinsmen is honorable, and I would not deny a citizen of Naboo the opportunity to give back to the kingdom that he calls home. While the Foundation focuses on services outlanders throughout the Southern Systems, I can grant you the privilege of aiding those who livere here on Naboo and her moons." As to his announcement to seek the seat of Minister Monoroco, Kalantha held her tongue. It was too soon to cast either favor or denouncement for such a move, even though this charitable contribution was not doubt part of Del-Finn's plan to oust the older noble from office.

The queen maintained near-perfect posture as she gazed upon Mother Askani and Joran. If either had qualms or comments, now was the moment to share them.

Tags: Mother Askani | Aiden Porte | Nakâtu Ee'everwest | Casstil Zirkonn | Lorn Reingard | Joran Del-Finn​

 

[Vizion Trozky]

LET'S GO HUNTING
DEEP PLAINS COUNTRY ☛ NABOO

​

"We should get going my friend. Everyone else keep your eyes open and report in with any unusual activity. "

Vizion nodded, tucked the vile vial back in the pocket it'd come from inside his jacket, and took off alongside the older Jedi, catching up to the other members of their group in short order. He could feel pulses in the Force ranging from weak to strong, the further away or closer the creatures were; the nearest of their quarries was almost straight ahead as he and Kahne approached the other two.

"...and if you can't be a team player, then I'll have no choice but to send you back to the Temple. Which would honestly be a waste. Because if we didn't think you had potential, didn't think you could help, then you wouldn't be here."

"Didn't stop you from following me, did I? So I didn't ditch you. I figured you'd catch up. Need more doing and less talking when lives are at stake."

"Patience my friend, that is something you must learn first. We've all had to learn it growing up."

The Brentaalan Jedi Knight considered Joro for a moment with a glance, then peered forward. He caught sight of the shadowed creatures himself, just before Briana announced the very fact of their sighting.

"I see them."

They might not be as bad as that rhak-skuri, but they sure as hell were shaped as ugly, with almost as many appendages apparent in their shadowy figures.

"Form up!"

The rain started to come down harder. Viz's mouth became a pensive line, but he didn't reach for either of the hilts on his belt. Not yet.

"Mind that this doesn't become a mud-wrestling match," he advised, while his curly hair took on more water and started to droop into his face, "and try to use the terrain against them, if you can."

There was quite the potential to lose traction, slip... or get stuck.

Briana Sal-Soren • Joro Kal'nath • Kahne Porte​

 

[Aiden Porte]

​

OBJ-2
Task: Protect The Queen
Kalantha Mother Askani Joran Del-Finn Nakâtu Ee'everwest Casstil Zirkonn Lorn Reingard

Proposals came through, the first one was well heard and he even showed the smallest of smiles as he tried to maintain a stoic appearance for the sake of professionalism. Yet as the next speaker came forward, it was then he narrowed his eyes as the man spoke. It was then it seemed he cast a shroud of the assembly, and Aiden didn't like it. His eyes glanced around, looking at those who were whispering to each other. Trying to formulate their own conclusions and their own thoughts on these words.

It seemed he was playing a game of hot and cold, passive aggressiveness. He glanced over to the Queen as he met her sideways glance, with a small smirk. It was easy to judge when you weren't the one sitting in the chair.

"I have not come here today to brag nor lower any opinion on her grace the Queen. No, quite the opposite, our Queen Kalantha, requires out support and your majesty, I pledge you my support, I pledge all of Naboo my support and it is with great humility I stand before all here assembled and announce my intention to contest the seat of Minister Monoroco in the very near election. I have put blood, sweat, and credits into Naboo and would give even more to see her prosper again."

That's exactly what you are doing though.... The Jedi Padawan thought as he studied him curiously. Aiden didn't know this man at all, but already he wasn't fond of him. He wished he could tell her, just by outward appearance and what he had heard.

He didn't trust him. Perhaps that was his own biasness towards the Queen, whom he had deeply respected and would protect with his life. If you built yourself up so much as he was doing. He had ulterior motives, and it made Aiden feel uneasy.