Private Fault Lines

[Valery Noble]

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Outfit: Jedi Jumpsuit | Wedding Ring
Weapons: Lightsabers

The soft glow of a holographic map illuminated the briefing room, casting long shadows on the walls as Valery stood at its center, her arms loosely crossed over her chest. The room was quiet, save for the faint hum of Temple activity filtering through the door. On the map, the outline of a remote mining facility rotated slowly, marked with points of interest and potential danger zones.

Valery turned her amber eyes toward the door as she sensed the approach of two familiar presences through the Force. Today's mission was a little unusual—she'd be leading not just her own Padawan, Azurine, but also Roman Vossari , another promising student from the Order. It wasn't uncommon for Masters to collaborate on missions, and Valery knew Roman's skills and resourcefulness would add value to the team.

But it was also a test.

Bringing two Padawans on a mission meant more responsibility for her, but it also offered a unique opportunity for both of them to grow. Azurine could benefit from observing another Padawan's approach, while Roman could gain insight from working alongside one of the Order's more experienced Masters.

The doors slid open with a soft hiss, and Valery straightened, her warm but serious gaze meeting her students as they entered.

"Azurine. Roman," she greeted with a small nod to each, her tone steady and welcoming. "Thank you both for coming. I've called you here because we've got a situation that requires careful handling, and I believe the two of you are ready to step up."

Azurine Varek Roman Vossari ​

 

[Azurine Varek]

New Points Of View

Outfit: Clothing/Armor | Glove | Right Arm | Talisman
Weapons: Lightsaber 1 | Lightsaber 2 | Hook Swords

Azurine strolled into the briefing room, her amethyst-colored eyes alight with a flame of excitement that had multiple shades of purples dancing within them, her strides confident and purposeful, yet casual. She cast a quick glance at the holographic map before her gaze landed on Valery, and she launched into a tight but brief hug. A slight smirk played at the corners of her lips, her signature mix of playfulness and spitfire energy already making itself known.

Azzie found her thoughts wandering for just a moment, her sharp focus giving way to a pang of nostalgia. The last few missions she’d been assigned to were under the watchful eyes of Master Jonyna Si and Aadihr Lidos . Both were exceptional Jedi in their own right—Jonyna’s tactical brilliance and Aadihr’s gentle, methodical approaches had pushed her in new and challenging ways. She’d learned a lot under their guidance, and her respect for them not just as jedi but as friends was genuine. However, she wouldn’t admit it outright, but she’d missed working directly with Master Valery since the pregnancy.

Being back in the same room as her master, hearing that steady, familiar voice delivering the briefing, filled her with a sense of grounding she hadn’t realized she needed. There was an unspoken bond she had with the woman who took her in when she thought she had nothing left, a rhythm they naturally fell into. It wasn’t just about completing missions—it was about growth, trust, and the kind of mentorship that made her stronger. She was a stick of rebellious dynamite on a good day, after all.

"Are you sure you didn’t mix up the mission briefs, Master? Sounds more like the kind of assignment where you tell me to not blow something up.” Her teasing tone was matched with a flash of sharp wit, but her stance betrayed her readiness. She might poke fun, but there was no question she was already analyzing the map, noting danger zones and potential strategies, her presence of leadership a beacon in the room. “Alright, so what’s the deal? Smugglers? Pirates? Or are we dealing with the ever-thrilling nest of kriffing mynocks... again...”

Azzie's attention shifted to the other padawan in the room, Roman. She didn’t know him well yet, only really by what Anneliese had told her and from what she had seen when they both attended Master Caltin Vanagor 's class on the Broken Gate techniques, but this mission would change that one way or another. She did remember, though, how he'd managed to take a hit from Aris Noble and only ended up knocked on his behind rather than completely unconscious, and that alone definitely had her respect—even if it might not have been the best time to test his luck, so to speak. Clearly, he had some choobies on him, which colored her impressed.

The corner of her mouth twitched upward in a faint, almost mischievous smirk. He’ll keep up… hopefully.

"You better have packed your A-game, Vossari. This might be one for the holocrons." She shot a wink in Roman’s direction, her energy practically infectious. The twinkle in her eye made it clear: she wasn’t here to compete. She was here to learn, to lead, and to forge connections while doing it.

Valery Noble | Roman Vossari​

 

[Roman Vossari]

Tags: Valery Noble | Azurine Varek

​

Roman strode into the briefing room, his usual calm demeanor masking a flicker of surprise. A summons from Grandmaster Noble herself – it had been a while since their paths had crossed outside of the usual Temple duties and formal events. He couldn't help but wonder if perhaps their recent, slightly chaotic, time on Dantooine and the subsequent Jedi Ball had prompted this. He certainly hoped not, the memory of his own clumsiness and slight embarrassment that night still lingered. He resolved to be on his absolute best behavior, a model Jedi, no mistakes allowed.

His gaze fell on the holographic map, trying to decipher the details of their upcoming mission. Before he could piece anything together, Azurine's voice cut through the silence, a playful jab aimed at the Master. She was a force of nature, just like Anneliese. Roman chuckled inwardly, it seemed Valery had a knack for attracting Padawans with fiery personalities. He didn't know Azurine well, their connection mainly through Anneliese's relayed anecdotes. This mission would change that, offering a chance to get to know someone who had already shown so much potential.

His blue eyes flicked up as she turned her attention to him, a mischievous glint in her eyes as she teased him. "Don't worry... I'm always on my A-game, Varek." He returned her smile, a genuine amusement coloring his tone. He was here to prove himself and felt excited to show her what he was capable of.

Turning his attention to the Grandmaster, Roman shifted to a more serious tone, ready to get straight to business. "So, what's the plan?" he asked, his voice calm and collected, reflecting his eagerness to understand the mission ahead. He knew it wouldn't be easy, not if Valery had asked for both him and Azurine on the mission. He was ready for whatever was thrown at them.

 

[Valery Noble]

​

Outfit: Jedi Jumpsuit | Wedding Ring
Weapons: Lightsabers

Valery's warm smile lingered as she regarded both Padawans, her amber eyes dancing between Azurine's lively energy and Roman's steady calm. The contrast between the two was stark — Azurine's fiery confidence seemed ready to burst at the seams, while Roman's collected demeanor radiated quiet strength. It was a pairing Valery had intentionally chosen, knowing that their opposing approaches might bring out the best in each other.

She let out a soft chuckle at Azurine's quip, shaking her head lightly. "No mynocks this time, Azurine, and I promise, no missions where you're expressly forbidden to blow something up... at least, not yet," she teased back, her tone playful but controlled. Her gaze softened as she watched the Padawan study the map — beneath the banter, Azurine's sharp mind was already at work, her natural leadership and quick thinking evident.

Her attention shifted to Roman as he spoke, his composed tone grounding the room's energy. "And I'd expect nothing less than your A-game, Roman," she replied, her tone warm but edged with subtle encouragement. Roman's steadiness was a perfect counterbalance to Azurine's spark, and she suspected that his quiet determination would prove invaluable during the mission.

Stepping closer to the holomap, Valery gestured toward the rotating display. "Here's the situation," she began, her tone shifting into the calm authority of a Jedi Master.

"Our mission takes us to the outskirts of the Tingel Arm, where a Dark Jedi warlord named Malvok has begun to establish a foothold. He's exploiting vulnerable settlements, demanding tributes, and enforcing his will with a small but dangerous force of mercenaries and Force-sensitive acolytes."

She paused, letting the gravity of the situation settle in. "The people under his control have reached out to the Jedi Order for help. Our role is twofold: First, we'll assess the situation and gather intelligence on Malvok's power structure, identifying his key lieutenants and resources. Second, we make our move to stop what's happening."

Valery pointed to a planet at the edge of the cluster, the first stop on their mission. "We'll begin here. It's one of the more heavily oppressed settlements, but it's also where Malvok's influence is weakest. From there, we'll work our way toward his power center."

She stepped back from the holomap, her hands clasping loosely in front of her. "This mission isn't just about stopping Malvok — it's about helping those who have lost hope and showing them new hope. Questions before we head out?"

Azurine Varek Roman Vossari ​

 

[Azurine Varek]

New Points Of View

Outfit: Clothing/Armor | Glove | Right Arm | Talisman
Weapons: Lightsaber 1 | Lightsaber 2 | Hook Swords

"Thank the stars! I swear, if I never see another one of those circuit-munching pests again, it would still be too soon." Azurine exclaimed, relief running through her.

Quickly, though, her fire filled violet eyes darted to the planet Valery had pointed out, her mind already focusing in on possibilities. This whole situation—working to help the oppressed—was something she'd dedicated her whole life to before she'd found herself here. A grin tugged at the corner of her lips as she glanced at Roman. "Dark Jedi warlord, mercenaries; Sounds like one hell of a party. Too bad we have to crash it." She joked, nudging his arm with her elbow.

Her gaze shifted between Roman and Valery, then back to the map. The spark in her eyes sharpened into determination as her curiosity turned into ideas. "If this Malvok is demanding tributes, then his logistics must rely on predictable routes, right? We can exploit that to cut off his supplies or draw out his lieutenants. Hit them fast enough and they'll start scrambling." Her tone held the conviction of someone who was ready to face a challenge head-on, but there was an edge of her deep-rooted compassion beneath it—she wasn't just strategizing for advantage; she was thinking of the lives that could be caught in the crossfire. Using trade routes and ambush could isolate those involved from as many innocent bystanders as possible.

Azzie moved forward a bit to look closer at the map, crossing her arms and tilting her head toward Valery when she asked for questions. Her expression gained a quick flash of concern, though it wasn't enough yet to overwhelm her fierce attitude. "Are we expecting any sort of organized resistance from the locals, or are they too downtrodden to push back against his lackeys? Because if we’re walking into a situation where they’re too scared, it might... complicate things. I would know."

Valery Noble | Roman Vossari​

 

[Roman Vossari]

Tags: Valery Noble | Azurine Varek

​

Roman listened intently as Valery outlined their mission, his expression remaining calm and focused. He absorbed every detail, the gravity of the situation settling upon him like a familiar mantle. Malvok's actions were a stain on the galaxy, disrupting the balance the Jedi strived to maintain. Roman felt the familiar stir of purpose, the quiet determination that always guided him.

He offered a slight nod at Valery's words, acknowledging her expectations of his best effort. He knew his strength didn't lie in witty banter or explosive action like Azurine, but in his unwavering resolve and analytical mind. He would be the anchor, the steady hand guiding their mission forward.

Azurine's casual remark about crashing a party drew a brief, almost imperceptible smile to his lips. He appreciated her bold spirit and knew that her enthusiasm, while sometimes bordering on recklessness, was a powerful asset. He glanced at her as she spoke, her ideas already forming and bubbling to the surface. He valued her quick mind and her intuitive insights; they were assets that complemented his more methodical approach.

When Azurine addressed the local's potential for resistance, Roman turned to face Valery, his dark eyes holding a question of his own. The idea she presented was valid and was in line with his train of thought, which was currently moving through tactics and scenarios that could potentially be present.

"I agree," he began, his voice even and measured, "understanding the local's psychological situation is crucial. Fear can be a potent weapon, and if Malvok has instilled a significant amount of it, they may be reluctant to assist us directly."

He paused for a moment after adding his two credit chips into the conversation. Roman was ready to go, ready to spring into action and help.

 

[Valery Noble]

​

Outfit: Jedi Jumpsuit | Wedding Ring
Weapons: Lightsabers

Valery's smile softened as she listened to her Padawans. Azurine's fiery enthusiasm and sharp thinking paired beautifully with Roman's steady, methodical approach. The two of them balanced each other well, and she was confident that together, they'd tackle this mission with both courage and intelligence.

She turned her attention to Azurine first, nodding at her suggestion. "A good suggestion. We can go through our records and try to establish what common routes he has been taking." Her tone was calm but carried the weight of conviction.

Then, her gaze shifted to Roman, her expression thoughtful. "And I agree with both of you regarding the locals. Resistance from them could either bolster our efforts or complicate them. Based on the reports we've received, Malvok has sown a lot of fear, and the settlements are heavily oppressed. It's unlikely we'll find an organized uprising waiting for us, but there might be individuals or small groups who are quietly resisting."

She gestured back to the holomap, zooming in on the settlement where they'd be starting. "Our first priority when we arrive will be to assess the situation and make contact with anyone who might be willing to help. Earning their trust won't be easy, but if we show them we're here to help — to bring real change — we might turn their fear into courage."

All they needed was a spark.

Valery stepped back from the map, her hands resting loosely at her sides as she looked at both Padawans. Her amber eyes glimmered with pride and a steady resolve. "You're both ready for this. I can see it in the way you think and the way you approach the challenges ahead. Trust yourselves, trust the Force, and trust each other. If we work together, we'll make a real difference for these people."

Valery paused, her smile returning as she gestured toward the exit. "If there are no other questions, let's head to the shuttle. It's a long journey to the Tingel Arm, and we've got work to do."

Azurine Varek Roman Vossari ​

 

[Azurine Varek]

New Points Of View

Outfit: Clothing/Armor | Glove | Right Arm | Talisman
Weapons: Lightsaber 1 | Lightsaber 2 | Hook Swords

Azurine tilted her head slightly, her expression momentarily softening as Valery addressed Roman. Something about his calm, measured demeanor brought a fleeting memory of Aadihr Lidos to the forefront of her mind. She hesitated, caught off guard by the thought of her friend, with whom she'd spent so much time—and multiple missions—now. For just a heartbeat, her fiery spirit softened, her focus drifting to Aadihr’s steady presence and the way he had often tempered her spitfire nature with quiet and gentle wisdom, yet was still able to take her chit and give it right back to her.

For a fleeting second, she was somewhere else entirely, lost in the memory of a laugh, a voice that always managed to steady her own storm—

Shaking off the momentary lapse and convincing herself it was nothing to dwell further upon despite knowing the heat across her face meant she'd probably gone a bit pink, Azzie quickly straightened herself. Her characteristic fierce attitude reignited. The mention of oppressed people struggling under the weight of fear was a scene she knew all too well. "Turning fear into hope—that’s something I’ve been doing for most of my life," she said, her voice steady but carrying an edge of determination. "Malvok may think he’s crushed their spirit, but I learned a little something in the Rebel Alliance: it only takes an ember to ignite an inferno." They would make sure the people knew they were not alone in this galaxy.

Her gaze flicked back to Roman briefly, finding reassurance in his steadiness before turning to Valery. There was no trace of hesitation in her eyes, only unshakable resolve. "We have our work cut out for us, then."

With a confident smirk, Azzie turned toward the exit, already anticipating the journey ahead. She stopped abruptly, though, looking over her shoulder with a mischievous glint in her violet eyes. "Actually, one more thing. Which shuttle am I piloting to get us there?"

Valery Noble | Roman Vossari​

 

[Roman Vossari]

Tags: Valery Noble | Azurine Varek

​

Roman listened intently as Valery laid out their plan, nodding slowly in agreement. Her assessment of the situation felt thorough and well-reasoned, and he appreciated her emphasis on the importance of earning the locals' trust. He was ready to go, eager to put his training into practice and make a tangible difference in the lives of the oppressed.

He turned his gaze to Azurine, a small, almost imperceptible smile playing on his lips. He knew she would be eager to begin, her natural energy a stark contrast to his own more reserved nature. "I am ready when you are." he added.

He was about to step towards the exit with the others when Azurine spoke, her voice carrying a fervent conviction as she recounted her experience with turning fear into hope. A flash of curiosity rippled through his mind as she stated, "it only takes an ember to ignite an inferno." His brow furrowed slightly. The mention of the Rebel Alliance caused his eyes to shift towards her, confusion etched across his features. Had he heard her correctly? The Rebel Alliance? He had studied that war long, long ago, history books full of stories of those fighters. His mind raced, trying to quickly piece together what Azurine could be referring to, and how that was relevant to her past? Surely she couldn't mean that Rebel Alliance?

His train of thought was brought to an abrupt halt as Azurine's voice cut through the silence once more, a mischievous glint in her eyes as she asked which shuttle she would be piloting. Roman suppressed a small sigh, his focus returning to the present. He could see now why Valery had brought him along on this mission, not just for his skills but to act as a counterweight to Azurine's fiery spirit, something Anneliese had mentioned several times. She was indeed a personality.

He turned back to Valery, his expression composed, and finally asked, "We better get going then?"

 

[Valery Noble]

​

Outfit: Jedi Jumpsuit | Wedding Ring
Weapons: Lightsabers

Valery arched a brow and crossed her arms, her fiery amber eyes narrowing playfully at Azurine. "The Bastion." she said with a smirk. "You do know that's my husband's pride and joy, right? If you scratch her, I'm the one who has to deal with him." She still remembers the time she scratched the paint a little.

She sighed dramatically, though the smirk tugging at her lips gave away her amusement. "Alright, Azzie, you can fly. But if you so much as nudge an asteroid, you're scrubbing the entire hull by hand. Deal?"

Valery turned to Roman, her expression softening into a smile. "And you, Roman, you've got the co-pilot seat. Keep her in line," she said with a wink before gesturing toward the hangar. "Let's get moving."

---

The group moved with purpose through the bustling halls of the Temple until they reached the hangar bay, where the Bastion sat gleaming under the soft lights. Valery felt a pang of pride seeing the ship — a constant companion in her adventures and a symbol of her family's bond.

As they ascended the ramp, Valery stepped aside to let Azurine take the pilot's seat, her gaze lingering on the controls. "Alright, Azzie, she's all yours," Valery said as she folded her arms and leaned against the bulkhead.

The ship powered up with a soft hum, the familiar vibrations filling the cabin as Azurine worked the controls. Roman settled into the co-pilot's seat, his calm demeanor contrasting Azurine's fiery energy. Valery watched the interplay between the two with a faint smile before moving to take her seat nearby.

As the Bastion lifted off and ascended into the atmosphere, Valery's voice broke the comfortable silence. "Our first destination is the settlement closest to Malvok's usual routes. We'll touch down on the outskirts and move in carefully. Our priority is to observe and make contact with anyone who might be willing to talk. These people have lived in fear for too long, and they're not likely to trust us right away."

The stars stretched into the infinite blue of hyperspace as the Bastion jumped, leaving the safety of the Temple behind. Valery glanced at her Padawans, pride shining in her expression. They had a long journey ahead, but she was confident they were ready to face whatever challenges awaited them.

Azurine Varek Roman Vossari ​

 

[Azurine Varek]

New Points Of View

Outfit: Clothing/Armor | Glove | Right Arm | Talisman
Weapons: Lightsaber 1 | Lightsaber 2 | Hook Swords

Azurine hadn't exactly expected the mode of transport to be the Bastion of all ships, assuming they would just take one of the temple shuttles or something. An playful grin at the corner of her lips as Valery gave her the green light to take the controls. “Oh, deal,” she said, her tone oozing with mock seriousness, completely unable to hide her eagerness. “I’ll have that hull shining so bright that Master Kahlil will ask if you installed new plating!” She gave a quick two-finger salute for emphasis. “But you’re not going to have to worry about that."

With a wink, she strode up the ramp toward the Bastion, the gleaming ship casting a faint golden glow over her skin.

“Alright, beautiful,” Azzie murmured to the ship under her breath as she settled into the pilot’s seat. Her hands moved deftly over the controls, a mixture of muscle memory and instinct guiding her as the ship roared to life. The gentle vibrations of the hull beneath her fingertips felt like the pulse of a living, breathing entity. "Let's get started."

As they lifted off, Azzie tilted her head toward Roman without taking her eyes off the viewport. “Keep an eye on the scanners untill we hit hyperspace, will you? I’ve got a reputation to uphold.” Her tone was light, but her focus sharpened as the Bastion broke atmosphere, the endless expanse of stars unfurling before them like a glittering tapestry. It didn't take long for hyperspace enveloped the ship; she leaned back slightly, her amethyst eyes scanning the endless swirl of light.

"I didn't mean to throw you off guard back there; I just assumed maybe Anneliese had told you or something—but, yeah, I was born around the start of the Clone Wars." She spoke up quickly, having decided to wait to address the spikes of confusion and disbelief she'd seen in the patterns of Roman's aura before they'd left until this point to avoid any delays. "And let me tell you, carbonite sickness after 900 years of suspension is one hell of a kick in the choobies to wake up to."

Azzie chuckled to herself before letting her eyes drift back out the main port, "I know it's a bit of a shocker. I'm pretty used to that by now, so if you have any questions, feel free to hit me with them."

Valery Noble | Roman Vossari​

 

[Roman Vossari]

Tags: Valery Noble | Azurine Varek

​

Roman raised a hand, a silent protest forming on his lips. Surely, surely, there was another ship they could have taken. Kahlil's "pride and joy" was not the choice for him. One wrong move and he'd be facing the Master's wrath, a prospect he was keen to avoid. But Azurine's excitement was a force of nature, bubbling up and sweeping all objections aside. He watched, a bead of nervous sweat trickling down his temple, as she winked at them, a glint of mischief in her amethyst eyes, and practically skipped up the ramp. This should be good, he thought, a tremor of dread mixed with a dash of morbid curiosity.

Settling into the co-pilot seat, Roman's eyes darted over the array of controls with mounting panic. What the feth did any of this mean? He'd been forced to take one flying class and now he was expected to operate this thing? His gaze flicked to Azurine as she confidently began her pre-flight checks, then back to Valery, a silent plea for intervention written on his face. Surely she could see he was woefully unprepared for this! Flying had always been something his family's pilots and employees took care of. Roman had never intended to learn.

He timidly poked at a button in front of him, the machine responding with a sharp, insistent beep that sent his heart into his throat. He quickly jabbed the button again to silence the alarm, his cheeks flushing slightly before Azurine's words snagged his attention.

"The Clone Wars...?" he echoed, turning to look at Azurine, his blue eyes wide with disbelief. Then his gaze shifted back to Valery before settling back on his companion. No wonder they got along so well – they were both ancient. A quiet, bewildered awe filled him.

Roman leaned back in his seat, trying to process this unexpected information. "I'm sorry," he managed, his voice soft and genuine. "That must have been hard." He couldn't fathom waking up in a completely different galaxy, leaving everything he had ever known behind. The thought was overwhelming.

A weighty silence settled over the cockpit as the Bastion plunged into hyperspace. Roman's mind whirled. The image of a reckless Rebel pilot, battling the Empire in daring dogfights, filled his head. He found himself half-expecting Azurine to throw them into a sudden, gravity-defying maneuver. He hoped, with a deep breath and his fingers crossed, that she had a modicum of control, that there would be no sudden need to be reckless.

 

[Valery Noble]

​

Outfit: Jedi Jumpsuit | Wedding Ring
Weapons: Lightsabers

Valery leaned casually against the bulkhead, her fiery amber eyes flicking between the two Padawans with an expression that was equal parts amusement and affection. Azurine's enthusiasm was as contagious as ever, and Roman's quiet horror at being thrust into the co-pilot's seat had not gone unnoticed. She'd let him squirm for a bit — it was a good character-building exercise, after all.

"Relax, Roman," she said with a playful smirk, her tone light and teasing. "Azurine's got this under control. You both do."

Her gaze shifted to Azurine as the young woman deftly handled the controls, a glint of pride in her expression. "Though I have to admit, Azzie, your confidence is impressive. Just don't let it turn into overconfidence." Her words carried the weight of sincerity, but the faint smile on her lips kept the mood light.

As Azurine shared her story about the Clone Wars, Valery chuckled softly, shaking her head. "You're making me feel ancient," she quipped, her voice tinged with warmth. Valery was from a time long before the Clone Wars, which meant she was often the target of age jokes.

Valery reached for the console, retrieving two cups of warm drinks from the dispenser and passing one to each Padawan if they desired one. She settled into a nearby seat, her hands clasping a cup of her own. The warm steam rising from it filled the cockpit with a faint, comforting aroma.

"We've all come from different places — different times, even — and we all carry pieces of our past with us," she said thoughtfully. "But what matters is what we choose to do with them. And right now, we've got a chance to make a difference together. That's what really counts."

Azurine Varek Roman Vossari ​

 

[Azurine Varek]

New Points Of View

Outfit: Clothing/Armor | Glove | Right Arm | Talisman
Weapons: Lightsaber 1 | Lightsaber 2 | Hook Swords

Azurine’s fingers danced across the controls with an ease that bordered on instinct, the soft hum of the Bastion’s systems thrumming beneath her palms. Her gaze flicked to Roman, catching the sheer panic etched into his features as he flinched away from the flashing button. A smirk tugged at the corner of her lips, but she fought to keep her tone gentle as she spoke.

"The ship isn’t going to bite. Unless you press that one—" she teased, gesturing vaguely toward the panel with a glint of mischief in her eyes, "—then we might all have a bad day."

Azzie's grin faltered, though, as Valery’s words lingered in the air. Overconfidence meant being unable to acknowledge one's own weaknesses, and oh boy, did she know she had plenty of those. It would be a lot more likely that her hardheadedness ended up being the death of her. "Overconfidence, me? Never!" She masked her momentary thought process with a quick sip of the drink Valery had handed her. The warmth seeped into her hands, grounding her.

She chuckled under her breath, her focus returning to the viewport ahead as stars stretched into brilliant lines of light. Hyperspace always had a way of stealing her breath, a reminder of the vastness of the galaxy and her place within it.

“I’d be lying if I said the war against the Empire didn’t help shape me," she said finally, her voice quieter now, but completely sincere. “I saw things... did things... that still haunt me at times.” She let the words hang for a moment, her gaze fixed firmly on the swirling void outside the cockpit. "But I also saw hope, even in the darkest moments, and helped to build something better. That's something that will always push me, you know?" As long as there were people who needed help, she'd continue to try to lead charges to provide it.

Valery’s wisdom brought the room to a comfortable stillness, the kind that reminded Azzie of how far they’d all come. She glanced back at her companions, a warmth blooming in her chest despite the ever-present shadows of her past. "What about you, Roman?"

Valery Noble | Roman Vossari​

 

[Roman Vossari]

Tags: Valery Noble | Azurine Varek

​

Roman's hand shot away from the console as if it had been burned. Azurine's teasing words about pressing the wrong button had sent a jolt of pure panic through him. The flashing lights and intricate panels of the cockpit suddenly seemed less like the impressive technology he had admired and more like a minefield waiting to explode. He sucked in a panicked breath, his eyes darting between the controls and Azurine, unsure if she was serious or just enjoying his discomfort.

Valery's calm demeanor and the offer of a warm drink were a welcome reprieve. He gratefully accepted the cup, the heat seeping into his cold hands and calming his racing heart. The gentle aroma of the drink filled his senses, pushing back the anxiety that had been threatening to overwhelm him. Taking a slow sip, he leaned back in his seat, letting the mesmerizing view of hyperspace take over him. The swirling vortex of light and color was a stark contrast to the chaos of his thoughts, and he found himself gradually relaxing, the tension in his shoulders easing.

He watched Azurine as she handled the controls with an almost casual ease. He envied her confidence, the way she moved with purpose and certainty. Perhaps it was borne from her time as a rebel, when she was required to make life and death decisions.

The thought that he was flying through hyperspace with a person with such a background made him feel simultaneously proud of her and deeply insecure at his own lack of experience. He had never faced anything remotely like war, his life having been largely confined to the gilded cage of his family's estate on Serenno. Sure, he had his fair share of issues, neglectful parents, constant pressure to uphold a social standard he didn't even believe in. It was nowhere near the challenges Azurine or even Valery had survived.

Roman listened to Azurine and Valery speak, his mind reeling slightly at the things they had both witnessed and the lives they had led. The Clone Wars, the rebellion against the Empire - these were stories that he had only ever read about in history texts and on the Holonet. It was astounding to think he was now sitting with individuals who had not only witnessed this history, but had been pivotal parts of its shaping.

As Azurine turned to him, he felt a flush rise to his cheeks, fully aware of how inconsequential his life experiences seemed now. "Well, uh..." he began, his voice quiet in comparison to Azurine's, "I haven't really had... well, I haven't had that much experience with anything, really."

He paused, unable to articulate the complex mix of admiration and inadequacy he was feeling. "I didn't help fight against the Empire. I spent most of my time... studying, I suppose. And... well, avoiding my home." He gave a humorless chuckle, the sound carrying a hint of self-deprecation that did little to hide the underlying shame he felt.

He hesitated for a moment, his gaze drifting to the viewport again. He was curious, genuinely so. He couldn't even begin to imagine the horrors of war, the stark reality of what it was like on the front lines. "What was the Empire like?" He asked Azurine, hoping to shift the conversation away from his own lack of relevant experiences.

 

[Valery Noble]

​

Outfit: Jedi Jumpsuit | Wedding Ring
Weapons: Lightsabers

Valery sat back in her seat, her fiery amber eyes drifting between Azurine and Roman as they spoke. She sipped quietly from her cup, the warmth seeping into her hands, and let the conversation flow naturally between the two Padawans. There was something satisfying about watching them connect — Azurine's confident yet reflective demeanor, Roman's quiet curiosity and self-awareness. They were different in many ways, but moments like these could forge bonds that went beyond shared missions.

Her presence was calm and steady, the hum of hyperspace filling the spaces between words. Valery's expression softened as Roman hesitantly opened up about his life on Serenno, and when he shifted the conversation back to Azurine's experiences, she could see the threads of understanding weaving between them.

She could have spoken then, could have shared her own perspective on the Empire or offered a guiding comment, but she held back. This was their moment to bond and share with each other, to exchange pieces of who they were without the weight of her voice adding to it.

Instead, after a pause, Valery let a faint smile tug at her lips and tilted her head slightly toward Azurine. "How's the Bastion handling for you, Azzie?" she asked, her tone light and conversational. "Think it suits you, or does she still need some breaking in?"

The question was simple, almost casual, but it carried a quiet encouragement. It was her way of keeping the moment grounded, giving them space to continue sharing while subtly checking in on Azurine's comfort with the ship she was piloting. Valery leaned back again, content to let their stories unfold.

Azurine Varek Roman Vossari ​

 

[Azurine Varek]

New Points Of View

Outfit: Clothing/Armor | Glove | Right Arm | Talisman
Weapons: Lightsaber 1 | Lightsaber 2 | Hook Swords

Azurine’s grin faltered the moment she saw the wide-eyed panic in Roman’s expression. She hadn’t meant to send him into a full-blown panic. Her teasing had been nothing more than a jab to break the tension—nothing more. Great job. Scare the guy who's clearly not handled many starships before. Real smooth.

Her empathy took over hard as she noticed his shallow breathing. Roman wasn’t just embarrassed; he was afraid. Her amethyst gaze quickly softened. “That button won’t do anything catastrophic—I was just messing with you. Honest.” She leaned in slightly, her voice carried the warm light of a hearth rather than a wildfire. "No surprises and no need to worry about it. If you want me to show you some things, though, I can."

Azzie turned her gaze forward when she was asked about what the Empire had been like, the swirling starscape suddenly feeling a bit too small. “The Empire... was a machine. Cold, unfeeling. It didn’t care who you were or what you stood for. It just consumed everything in its path.” Her voice was softer, and her grip on the controls tightened. “And if you didn’t fall in line, it made sure you wished you had.”

She didn’t elaborate. She didn’t think she needed to. The weight in her voice said enough.

The patterns of discomfort in his aura hadn't gone unnoticed when he'd answered her question, however. "You know, experience isn’t measured in battles or scars. It’s in the way you see the galaxy, the questions you ask, the things you care about. Someone told me once that your perspective is only one piece of the puzzle, and everyone carries a unique piece with them that makes the image a little clearer.” Azzie said with a quick shrug. She didn't know if it would help, but the warm smile that accompanied her voice said she sure hoped it might.

Valery’s soft, steady voice cut through the hum of the engines. The Bastion might not have the raw agility of the interceptors she’d piloted, which she typically preferred, but it reminded her a lot of the Outlyer. "She's a beauty. A little rough around the edges, but then again, so am I.” She cast a quick grin to the two.

Eventually, she dropped the Bastion out of hyperspace just outside the planet's atmosphere with a quick lurch, the streaking around them resolving into the inky black of the galaxy dotted with distant stars. Ahead, two sleek, unfamiliar fighters hung in the void like twin predators sizing up their prey. They weren't broadcasting any identifiable codes, unmarked, and their intentions unclear.

"Well, this mission just keeps getting better," Azzie muttered with dry sarcasm. It looked like her earlier statement about no surprises wasn't going to hold. Her hands hovered over the controls as she turned to Valery. "Master Valery, do we try to talk to them, prepare for the worst, or both?”

Her thoughts were a jumble of resolve and anxiety. If they fire first, can I outmaneuver them? Probably. Can Roman handle a gunner station if it comes to that? Stars, I hope so.

Valery Noble | Roman Vossari​

 

[Roman Vossari]

Tags: Valery Noble | Azurine Varek

​

Roman's breath hitched as Azurine spoke of the Empire, his gaze fixed on her. The starkness in her voice painted a picture he hadn't imagined, a chilling contrast to her usual playful demeanor. He saw the tightening of her hands on the controls, and the undercurrent of hurt barely concealed in her words. It was more than just a story; it was a scar. He hadn't realized the weight she carried until this moment.

When she shifted the topic, speaking of perspective and pieces of a puzzle, he listened intently. It wasn't the bravado he'd expected from a woman who handled a starship like it was an extension of herself. The idea that someone who had been through war thought his perspective mattered, that he held a unique piece, was surprising and oddly comforting. He found himself unconsciously nodding, her words resonating with his own quiet anxieties about not measuring up. Perhaps experience wasn't about having seen the darkest corners of the galaxy.

His thoughts were still swirling over Azurine's words when they lurched out of hyperspace. His stomach lurched with the ship, and the sight of the two waiting fighters made his heart leap into his throat. Roman's fingers tightened against his seat's armrests as he stared at the two ships. He desperately wanted more information, something from the scanner that would tell him what was happening as Azurine and Valery shared a look, clearly thinking things through.

"Maybe we just ignore them?" he blurted out, his voice a bit higher in pitch than he would have liked. He knew it was probably a naive hope, but the idea of confronting whatever those ships might be sent a wave of unease through him.

 

[Valery Noble]

​

Outfit: Jedi Jumpsuit | Wedding Ring
Weapons: Lightsabers

Valery's gaze softened slightly as Azurine spoke of the Empire, the weight in her Padawan's voice cutting through the hum of the ship. She didn't interrupt, instead letting Azurine's words linger in the air. Her grip on her own cup of tea tightened slightly as she watched Roman's reaction — his silent attentiveness spoke volumes about the kind of man he was. Valery smiled faintly. Moments like these were why she let her Padawans talk freely. They had so much to learn from each other.

But the moment of reflection was shattered when the Bastion dropped out of hyperspace.

The sleek, predatory silhouettes of the two unmarked fighters loomed ahead. Valery's amber eyes sharpened as she leaned forward, her hands resting lightly on the console. The subtle hum of the ship's systems seemed louder now, almost like it could sense the tension filling the cockpit. Azurine's question and Roman's nervous suggestion reached her ears, but her focus remained on the approaching ships.

"Let's see if they're willing to talk first," Valery said calmly, her voice steady despite the sudden shift in the air. "Azzie, keep the Bastion steady. Roman, stay alert and ready — just in case."

Reaching for the communications panel, Valery keyed in an open channel. Her voice carried authority but lacked hostility as she addressed the unknown fighters.

<This is Jedi Master Valery Noble aboard the Bastion. Identify yourselves and state your intentions.>

Her words hung in the silence as she waited for a response. None came.

Frowning, Valery sent another message, her tone still calm but firmer this time. <Unidentified vessels, this is Jedi Master Valery Noble. We are on a peaceful mission. Please respond.>

Again, silence.

Valery's gaze flicked toward the console as an alarm chimed softly. The fighters were powering up their shields and weapons, their intentions now clear. The ships shifted, breaking into an aggressive formation as they accelerated toward the Bastion.

Valery's voice remained composed as her fiery eyes darted to Azurine. "Shields up. Get ready to maneuver. Roman, head to the gunner station. This might get rough."

Her focus returned to the approaching ships as her hand hovered over the controls, her presence in the Force a steady beacon of confidence for the two Padawans. "Looks like they're not interested in talking. Let's make sure we give them a reason to regret that decision."

Azurine Varek Roman Vossari ​

 

[Azurine Varek]

New Points Of View

Outfit: Clothing/Armor | Glove | Right Arm | Talisman
Weapons: Lightsaber 1 | Lightsaber 2 | Hook Swords

The Bastion’s controls vibrated gently under Azzie’s hands as she powered up its shields. Her pulse quickened, though she forced her breathing to stay steady. The incoming fighters moved like vipers—coiled and calculating, ready to strike. So much for diplomacy this time, she thought, gritting her teeth. Her gaze flicked to the displays, scanning for a path through the chaos that was about to unfold.

Valery’s steady presence nearby was a gentle comfort, a constant reminder of the calm she needed that helped to fuel the determined flame blazing in her amethyst eyes. “I guess they don’t appreciate polite introductions.” She muttered, edged with her usual sarcasm.

“Shields up and holding, Captain.” Azzie said swiftly, her voice louder now to compensate for the growing rumble of the engines. “Let’s see if they’ve got what it takes to keep up with us.” Though she joked to keep the air lighter, she was taking into account how much bigger this ship was than those fighters. It would take a lot of control to make up for their speed with maneuverability. Underestimating this was out of the question.

The fighters opened fire, their red bolts slicing through the void toward them. Azzie jerked the controls hard to the left, throwing the freighter into a sharp dive. The sudden maneuver made her stomach lurch in her chest, but she didn’t flinch.

“Hang on and buckle up!" She yelled over the whine of the ship's systems, her gaze fixed on the chaotic dance of attackers. Hopefully, Roman had enough time to get to the gunner station. The ship groaned a bit in protest as it twisted through the tight space between the bolts, but it held firm.

Another volley of laser fire streaked past the viewport, forcing her to swerve again. Her fingers flew across the controls, rerouting power to the engines to squeeze out just a little more speed. She was just lucky she had spent a good amount of time flying a Nova Courier, whose controls were very similar to this, given how they were a similar class of starship. She felt the familiar hum as the ship surged forward, aiming to line up a good shot for those on the guns while blowing past them.

Valery Noble | Roman Vossari​