Faction Going Away to College | Sith Academy

[Lunaria Talon]

Direct Tag: Soldane Talon | Darth Carnifex [/USER] | Aerik Lechner [OPEN]
Alias: Artemis Dreadmoor
Wearing: School Uniform

<<…Giving my name is hardly becoming…Friends…>>

What was a friend, anyway? Aside from the inherent usefulness of having an ally it was a rather foreign concept. They had both been raised the same way. With the same lessons, the same, healthy aversions to the outside world. They had acquaintances that had been selected for them both with loyalty and the future in mind but true friendship could only be found between the two of them. That was all there ever was. Soldane would never hurt her, leave her, or let her down. He would never abandon her. <<They seem more interested in you than me. I'm just…In the way.>>

The prince and the spare, as it were.

From her position on the sidelines, she watched her brother complete his testing in silence. Her expression was as pensive as one could be for a teenager while her eyes flickered occasionally to follow his every movement. If she had a little less discipline, she would have slapped her forehead while he did everything he could to complete the tests in the most adverse way possible. Sure… He technically did as told. But, they both knew this wasn't what the overseers had in mind.

Luna drew up one leg and crossed it over the other, lifting her ankle just enough to massage it. She had twinged it slightly from her misstep. Embarrassing, though that was. She should have been more focused on the present rather than worried about some stupid test that had gone wrong. She had to have the Force, right? There was no other way to explain her abilities was there? The way she could talk to Sol? Always, feel their Naneth and Haru?

What did a few dumb numbers really mean?

When Soldane Talon sat down beside her he would feel her scoot protectively closer on the bench. Her fears about the midichlorian measurements were ramped back up at his words. The Corpse Priests had almost taken him away? They had all but ignored, dismissed her, but she hadn't been able to see what her brother had endured because she'd needed to complete her own tasks. Her blood ran cold and she suppressed a shiver in the broad light of day. "…It was Haru."

"It had to be Haru."

Her confidence in Darth Carnifex was second only to the awe she felt for their mother. The term "Demiurge" didn't immediately ring a bell but there was something in it that sounded familiar. He was the only one who might have been capable of getting them out of hot water. The only one she thought might try, or care, because the hands of their mother were forever tied. Bound by the need for anonymity that had kept them secret… "Maybe, next time, don't show off so much."

They couldn't be the sore thumbs. They couldn't stand out…Not yet, anyway.

While Sol called toward Jarek Voss her attention drifted down to her ankle. It felt a bit better, now. What an incredibly stupid mistake. "Hi.", she greeted Jarek over her brother's shoulder when he came over but her voice was soft. So distant, it might have gotten lost in the white noise whilst her eyes stayed low and swept the top of his boots. She couldn't help but hear something going on with Viers Connory and a few of the other girls…But after Luna had broken the testing machine? Would Viers even want to talk to her?

Viers had scored so high and Luna didn't have a score at all. She must have been…Really, really powerful. A lot of the students were. Alaqai Temuha stacked boulders with ease and grace, as if, they were only moving around palm-sized toys. Eira Dyn was intensely confident. Meili Feng breezed through the lock portion just as Soldane had…With a tough more sass, it seemed. Her evaluation of her peers was interrupted, suddenly, by the kid ( Aerik Lechner ) with the staring problem.

"You're blocking the view."

She tilted her body to lean around him. Looking for others, perhaps, Udren Zeln to see how he faired. Luna couldn't say he was definitively Echani but…Their people often had a way about them. It was hard to describe but it definitely took one to know one. But…It seemed that the boy wasn't done and kept speaking even though her focus was definitely elsewhere. Eventually, her head did turn toward the orange-eyed student and she gave him another once-over that was even more critical than the first.

Her nose scrunched at the weak excuse he'd created for coming to speak to her brother through her. Keeping their chin up? Really? Had his mother also taught him to breathe on his own? The glass of water he offered was hesitantly accepted, though, she took only a partial sip before offering it to Soldane Talon as if it were second nature. They shared everything and if she was thirsty…He likely was too.

The boy asked to sit.

"Seating isn't assigned…Do as you please."

 

[Srina Talon]

Tag: Lunaria Talon | Soldane Talon | Darth Carnifex | Fiolette Yvarro | Gerwald Lechner [OPEN - Just watching in a corner]
Location: Jutrand Academy [Audience]
______________________________________________________

Her head tilted, though, she did not look at Gerwald Lechner when he approached with the first comment on his lips pertaining to the presence of Darth Carnifex over all else. Hawkish golden orbs did not leave the viewscreen while watching students pass through their tests with flying colors. Those that were ill-suited were quickly ushered away, but for those that excelled? They truly, excelled.

"Yes. I also see that the big celestial body in the sky is the sun."

Was this some sort of game her wolf wished to play? Pointing out the obvious, while, simultaneously trying to discern the motives of the other without simply asking? Not for the first time she wondered if her mind wipe had been effective in regards to knowledge of her children. He always seemed to know just a little too much, as if, there were a small bird whispering things in his ear. Fragments of shattered memory trying to lead him down a forbidden path. As much as it might have been a relief to be able to share the weight of such a secret…It could not be.

The lives of her children depended on secrecy, mystery, wards, bindings, and glamours. Srina had taken smoke and mirrors to a whole never level. From the pregnancy to birthing them aboard the Malsheem… It was likely the best-kept secret in the Order. And that was…fairly impressive.

Srina was especially suspicious when he used her children as a marker for his own. But, her expression remained still as stone with a presence that emanated the tranquility of an untouched lake. The closer he stood the more he would note the subtle scent of jasmine and rain, her power, suppressed until it was nothing more than a light fragrance. Her intention of standing in the back was just that.

A chance to stay out of the way. To let these children darkly shine for all they were worth without some Sith Lord or Lady making a fuss that overshadowed their accomplishments. It was the reason her hood was drawn up with only a length of long white hair escaping.

"I know where they are."

Her pale words in regards to the Lechner offspring were little more than a whisper and were stolen in the wake of a flash of red catching her attention. Careful eyes took note of Fiolette Yvarro and every unspoken aspect that came with her. The connection to Carnifex. The unfortunate circumstances that Srina had thus far not interfered with in regards to the actions of a certain Inquisitor. Pardon, Lord Inquisitor. It was something that heads of state would soon need to enact a solution lest the situation become any more unseemly than it already was. "Admiral Yvarro…", she greeted after a short moment, respectful, but just as distant as she had spoken to the Dark Council member at her side.

It was not a snub. Merely, her way. Unobtrusive…Until she had no other choice.

"The testing is standard. But…It is too soon to tell where promise is hidden. These sithlings seem to fail spectacularly or hold on to an average lead. Some midichlorian counts are higher than others but the practical portion of the exam has produced similar data."

It would be the smallest things, instinct, that separated them when it came to rankings. One mistake. One error. They would need to look for things that could have been handled better versus just seeing the given task through to completion. "They are all skilled for being so young…"

"But we are not merely seeking skill."

Her eyes flickered, pausing, while they clashed with the blue eyes of Gerwald Lechner at his notion of her expectations. Had he been sleepwalking since ascending to his position on the council? This type of bout was her least favorite when it came to their young. "They are all to be commended for their bravery in giving it their all before such a crowd. Failure, does not make them less. Merely ill-suited for the role we currently seek to have filled. We need driven students so that they might inspire their peers to reach for greater heights. To press forward, rather, than fall into the traditional nepotism of old."

"To produce leaders of quality that are appointed for their merit—Not their age, blood, or a bribe. Do you both not agree?"

 

[Kadann]

Robes

Lord Kadann strode with purpose above the potential acolytes. Lord Marr still had his support, but the young master was off into the viper pit that was sith leadership. Kadann was watching the testers more than the potential students, he wanted to make sure all were given an opportunity.

He had taught Jedi decades ago. He had been teaching sith too. He still didn't know whose methods were the most effective.

It was a gamble, he had come to decide. The Jedi would invest in the weak and some would go on to be powerful. The sith, would discard the weak or let them perish during their challenges. It meant more resources were put into the naturally talented.

 

[Rayth]

"Do you know why I have brought you here?" Darth Reprimar asked.

The pureblood sith sat behind Rayth. It forced the acolyte to sith with danger out of his line of sight. It kept him on edge as he watched the potential new students below.

"You want to take on another student?"

"I've already told you that," Reprimar snapped. "Why have I brought you here? Oh don't bother trying to think. I will explain. I believe that two is better than three. What happened to my last student?"

"You killed him."

"Yes and then you replaced him. I think that three works well. A master and a student. Then a younger student that can learn from us both. That will keep you sharp because you will know you can be replaced. You have been a poor student, after all."

"Master I will not..."

"Do not make empty promises. I will not kill you for being a poor student, but my new one might... Ah and now you are thinking: if they might kill me, then why do I not kill them? Because I forbid it. Which means if you want to dispose of them first, you will need to do it so we'll that none can place the blame at your feet."

 

[Zarava Dekki]

ZARAVA

Zarava had never seen this place before, and she would be lying if she said that it didn't unnerve her in a way. Ever since she was taken from her home thanks to the likes of her mother, to which she believed she no longer deserved that title. Zarava didn't know all that much when it came to the force in the first place and was only able to do some research on a datapad when she was brought to this planet. At the very moment she had stood on this planet, rage lingered underneath her pale skin at the thought of her mother living the life that she had dreamed of.

It was because of her that she was here. She was barely able to leave with any sort of her belongings, only managing to keep a photo of her family that was ripped to remove her mother from the picture. Zarava wondered what her father would think if he knew that she was capable of using the force. Her clothing was taken away from her, and in exchange she had been given black robes to replace them. The feeling of the fabric against her skin made it feel as if insects were crawling over her.

Zarava never really liked crowds, and it was shocking to see the number of children that were all lined up to see if they were capable. She wondered if those around her were given better chances because they were trained compared to the likes of her. Maybe she would get lucky? It had been a month since she had learned that she could move objects with just her mind after all. Right now, her main focus was simply surviving this ordeal and getting through to the next day. She didn't approach any other candidates, as she had no intention of making any friends.

After all, she believed that her time here was going to be temporary, if she had anything to say about it. She just needed to bide her time is all. Her eyes looked across the room, landing on the figures that were off to the side, that obviously were not children. Zarava could feel the hair on the back of neck stand up at the sight of some of them, so she slowly moved her attention to the task at hand.

The young redhead stepped forward, presenting her hand, just like she had seen those in front of her do. She didn't flinch as they took blood from her, and stood there for several seconds before the acolyte responded. Her midichlorians were above average. That was a good thing it seemed as she was gestured to go to the next station. Having her blood taken was the easy part it seemed as she came to the rocks. Zarava stood there for several seconds as she drew back onto the emotions she had with the last argument that she had with her mother.

The instance where they had learned she was force sensitive and threw the kitchen table across the room. One of her hands turned into a fist at her side at the rising sensation of her anger for her mother, while her right hand raised itself. Concentrate. Concentrate. Zarava was able to lift several of the rocks before eventually her arm dropped and she could feel sweat beading on her forehead already. She looked at some of the other candidates, and some of them didn't even look to be breaking much of a sweat. Just great. She seemed to have lifted more than enough rocks, and was soon turned toward the locks.

Since she was young she enjoyed learning about the mechanics of multiple different objects. Her dream was to one day own a ship of her own and become a great pilot. On a planet where there really wasn't all that much to do at her age, she had to keep herself busy after all. But this wouldn't be as easy and she would have hoped. She examined the locks carefully, visualizing what the inside of the lock looked like. Zarava probably took longer than the rest, and she was taking her time so that her she wasn't completely exhausted after lifting the rocks.

Finally, she would begin, and her knowledge of locks certainly helped in this task. Had she known this was going to be this exhausting, she would have tried to ask someone at least for a little bit of training. She couldn't help but feel a little bit of pride at her work. There were plenty of others that finished before her, but she had results, and thats all she could really ask for right now. The young redhead stood to the side, her blue eyes looking at the few that had passed. She crossed her arms over one another and tapped her finger as she tried to think of what could be next.

 

[Sasha Stellacend]

TAGS: open

Sasha watched the proceedings with a detached languor that had become all too familiar. Countless others passed before him, each processed and sorted, some marked for greatness by their unique circumstances or prowess. His gaze, pale as silvery blue ice, settled on various individuals, scrutinizing the tiniest of movements. A slow, steady breath escaped his lips in a somber hiss, his shoulders relaxing from the tension that had coiled within his slight frame. The possibilities seemed endless, the talent vast, yet time was mercilessly finite. He couldn't help but feel a sense of unease as he observed his peers, wondering where his own place in this hierarchy would be.

There was an undeniable presence in the room, a sort of effortless aura exuded by several students as they breezed through the challenges. It was clear that some figures would rise to prominence, their power swelling from this very crucible. Sasha couldn't help but feel a twinge of envy as he watched them, wondering if he would ever be able to achieve the same level of success. He was always an outsider, never quite fitting in with the crowd. His lack of confidence and self-doubt only added to this feeling of isolation.

One figure that captured Sasha's attention was Jarek Voss , whose mere presence exuded authority and commanded reverence. His movements were precise and purposeful, a clear calling sign to his rigorous and disciplined training. Jarek's laser-like focus and staunch discipline left Sasha in awe, highlighting his own perceived lack of these qualities. As he watched Jarek, Sasha's self-doubt only grew, the gap between their abilities feeling insurmountable.

Another possible Echani, Udren Zeln , caught Sasha's eye as well. Udren's sharp intellect and strategic mind were evident in the way he approached and overcame challenges, each calculated step leading him closer to success. Sasha couldn't help but admire his clarity of thought and execution, wishing he could possess such qualities himself. But instead, he felt like an incomplete piece in the midst of these accomplished and confident warriors. Their presence served as a mirror to his own perceived inadequacies.

Sasha's eyes wandered to Soldane Talon , whose confident strides exuded an air of power. The way Soldane navigated the challenges with apparent ease stirred a mix of admiration and resentment in Sasha. If only he could muster such boldness, perhaps he would feel less like an outsider in this sea of ambition.

The two, Lunaria Talon and Soldane, seemed to have moved with an unspoken synchronicity that fascinated and pained him. Their silent communication, the bond they shared, seemed like an unattainable ideal. He wasn't sure what it was but he could see that they recognized one another in the way they shared glances. Sasha couldn't help but feel a pang of loneliness, wondering if he would ever forge such a connection with anyone. The thought lingered, a bittersweet sentiment bubbling up in echos of his isolation.

The fervent ambition in a darkly colored boy's eyes was both inspiring and intimidating. He saw a reflection of his potential self, yet the gap between who he was and who he aspired to be felt insurmountable.

As the trials continued, Sasha's inner turmoil deepened. Each interaction and challenge only seemed to magnify his self-loathing and shyness. He felt like an outsider among these fierce competitors, a wallflower among a garden of warriors. The weight of his unmet expectations and fear of being forever mediocre weighed heavy on his heart.

When his name was called, Sasha stepped forward and complied with the instructions. He followed instructions to the letter, remaining silent and out of the way. He would remain quiet, almost invisible among the crowd, perhaps overwhelmed by the sheer number of people. Crossing to the other side of the challenges felt like escaping into a breath of fresh air. His attention shifted from the students to the observers, picking up on the subtleties of their glances and body language.

He read each person his gaze swept over meticulously, then his focus returned to his peers. Who should he approach? Should he approach anyone at all? Would anyone even want to engage with him?

The whole experience was laden with a tension that made the proceedings feel strained and unnatural. But amidst all of this, Sasha couldn't help but feel a glimmer of hope. Perhaps this was his chance to break out of his shell and prove himself, to show that he was more than just a nobody.

 

[Viers Connory]

//: Firrerreo //: Renora zambrano // Lunaria Talon //: Aspect of Passion //:

"I'm Viers, oh, and sponsor?" Viers blinked rapidly as she calibrated her memory, trying to figure out when and where she received this sponsor and how they were involved with having her nether portal drop her into the school. Whoever this 'sponsor' was, they must be extremely powerful beyond belief. Viers nearly gasped as she thought of this revelation. The sponsor could potentially be a god or some other deity. Her eyes narrowed at the thought of it being a demon from the netherworld playing with her mind. Could all of this be a dream? Could she be DEAD?

Viers could feel her soul leaving her body as the shock settled in that this could all be some twisted dream. The last thing she remembered before falling through the portal was the large dark cloud of beasts chasing her.

All of the horrible thoughts were interrupted by Firrero's explanation. The Corellian's soul returned to her body as she finally spawned back into her brain. "Oh, so like a school?" She responded by acting as if the sudden existential crisis didn't just occur. If this was a mind game, she didn't want the game maker to know she knew what they thought she didn't know. Relishing in her genius, a grin spread across the Corellian's face.

Back to reality, Viers nodded along, trying her best to understand what was happening and what she was being thrown into. If this was a school, she would have a chance to learn about the Sith or, in this mindscape version of the Sith. Before Viers could respond again to Firrerreo, a girl introduced herself and apologized. Viers snapped her attention to the girl and shrugged. "That's fine, I guess this place is pretty stressful for some people; you'll get stronger." She gave the woman a thumbs up, hoping to encourage her long confidence journey. "We're not a group you must ask to join; you can just pull up and be here and join the conversation." Viers chuckled at the thought of them separating into these groups.

"I'm Viers!" She nodded and looked between Firrerreo and Renora. "It's nice to meet both of you. Do you have these sponsors, too?" As she remarked about Sponsors, she bent her index and middle fingers to quote the word. Viers was still convinced this was more than Firrerreo had explained, but one couldn't be too careful.

Something caught Viers' attention as she spoke; through the crowd, she had caught sight of the Echani girl who had been kind and also introduced herself. They had separated when all the students had shuffled in, but Viers wanted to get to know her at least. The Monk's fruit-covered face looked almost desperately to Firrerreo, "Do you have any more fruit?" She had to start her debt repayment. Lunaria seemed down, and sweet treats were always the best way to feel better and make friends.

 

[Soldane Talon]

"It was Haru.", Lunaria had said, and Soldane nodded gravely.​

​

No matter what the Sepulchral had called his savior, there was only one person who could have intervened in such a way that their Father wouldn't have known. 'Demiurge' was Haru, Haru was 'Demiurge'. There was an acceptance in that, but it unnerved him in a different way. How many more times could Haru intervene to help them? He had told them they would struggle through this Academy, but how much struggle?​

​

"I didn't try and show off. It was the dumb machine.", he said dismissively. It was true, he had tried desperately to underperform while getting just far enough to ensure he got access to the Academy - or at least through the first trials. No doubt many more would look at his performance and be dissapointed, it wouldn't do him any favors for Sponsors, but it would help against the other Acolytes.​

​

When Jarek Voss came over, Soldane noticed the subtle way his anger seemed to fall away. Soldane offered him a smile before scooting closer to Lunaria, giving Jarek enough room to sit on the bench they had taken over for themselves. Lunaria had only given him a brief moment of her attention, but it was enough to at least show they both welcome him.​

​

"My names Rivan. This is my sister, Artemis. Are you Echani?", he asked, rather bluntly. It was a bad trait they had learned from their Mother, and the upbringing they were given. While they knew how to... fit in, the subterfuge they were trained in worked best with mixed with who they really were.​

​

"We're echani.", he said with a motion to his twin.​

​

"I thought it would be best to stick together, you know. Couldn't hurt to have a few friends around here, right?"​

​

Soldane ignored the Lechner crew that spoke to his sister, but he could feel her annoyance. Perhaps passively, he kept track of them - though most immediately felt how uncomfortable Lunaria was. The second she didn't feel comfortable, became too annoyed, he would make sure they knew they weren't welcome...​

​

Even if it drew attention to them.​

​

Lunaria Talon // Aerik Lechner​

 

[Udren Zeln]

The waiting was the worst of it, ultimately. The process of testing so many undoubtedly took a long time, there was no way around that, even with the phasing out steps. It could open the mind to wandering. There was no doubt in Udren's mind that this was a fight for survival, an as yet unbloodied arena, presented behind the veneer of academic success and pursuit... but there were no delusions for Udren that this place was always of, for, and about the dark side. Or perhaps his Master had been more pointed in that reminder; though, at his side, Udren's left hand twitched, as his thumb ran over the scar across his palm.

No. Never forget we are Sith.

As more and more prospects completed the tasks set before them, others began to converse and mingle. Larger and larger groups started to form, some even appearing quite cordial to one another, which caused Udren to raise an eyebrow. Some even ate and drank, partaking in the refreshments provided for the occasion, given the heat of the environment and academy proper. An interesting decision, Udren thought, as he noted several pairs of eyes that passed over him, and caught some in return - to stare back.

The Echani girl, she had been watching him. She also had a glass in hand.

Very well.

Udren walked through the throng of aspirants, his gaze fixed on the group of Echani and others nearby, mainly those that he had been lined up with previous; apparently the social mynocks. As he moved, he cast a glance toward another who appeared to be of Udren's species - Sasha Stellacend - who gave the impression of being withdrawn and deeply internal, assuming Udren's capacity for reading body language was accurate. Nonetheless, onward he continued, until eventually arriving at the gathering of successful individuals.

"You are bold--" Udren said in a low tone, as he paused near the young Echani from earlier - Lunaria Talon - and took the glass from her hand, as she held it toward her apparent relative to share. Though, Udren's eyes were on the youth with the bright orange eyes - Aerik Lechner - who likewise drank from his glass. "--to assume the only tests are those presented or spoken of. Are you so easily coerced into accepting water, or even food, at an event designed to cull aspiring Sith?"

Udren glanced to the Echani girl, then to her brother or cousin, and tipped the water out. He held the glass out to the youth with the orange eyes.

"And even bolder to drag others into your disregard... or ignorance? There may not be poison, or perhaps there is? Or void stone dust? Those refreshments are there, in the open, for any to pass by."

He raised his eyebrows, curious. Everything was a test here, at this moment - everything.

"I am Udren." the youth with the scars said, as he looked about the group. "And I offer this advice because I want you all at your best, so I can beat you."

It stood to reason whether the others took his words seriously or not.

___________________________________________________________________

Aspect of Passion | Viers Connory [mentioned]​

 

[Sage Lumiya]

Location: Academy
Objective: Pass trials and enroll
Tags: OPEN

It was hard not to be nervous, and Sage's hearts beat quickly as she was finally let into the challenge venue after listening to the Provost. She had a sponsor to be here, the person wasn't a Sith but a scientist, luckily had the connections and enough money to grease the wheels and set Sage on her path. "Ouch!" she said as the midichlorian count was taken, she had never been tested before, maybe she would fail this first step, maybe she wouldn't. The instructor didn't give her her reading but she thought she heard him say seventeen something, was that good? A count of 17? She had been let through so at least she knew it wasn't bad.

Sage looked around her at the various other attendees, she wore her guarderma suit under her uniform to keep her moist but she still felt thirsty, taking a large drink on the bottle she had attached to her shoulder.

There were boulders in front of her and she lifted her hand, her ears flared slightly with the exertion, it wasn't that she was weak, she was just inexperienced at the deliberate application of the force, in her world life was so short that you didn't plan, you just did. She was successful again and she walked back cracking the knuckles of her sharp clawed hands. It was strange here, so many species she had never heard of before. She knew many of the fauna of Felucia by sight and sound, but most of them were not Undinoid and those were more complex, the closest she generally came to non-Undine sapient was when she escorted aliens to the breeding pods, but even then her own interaction was limited.

The lock was the hardest part of the test yet, she managed to do it, but she definitely broke it, she would lose points probably, but at the very least she was progressing.

 

[Darth Carnifex]

"All in due time," the Dark Lord's eyes followed Fiolette as she left, continuing to stare at the emptiness left in her wake before again turning towards Malum. The boy spoke easily, fluently. Perhaps his words might have moved another, but the Dark Lord was not so easily swayed. Through the penumbra of the Dark Side's shadowy radiance, the Dark Lord was privy to many secret truths; even those believed completely unaware by all save the secret bearer.

Many times has Darth Isolda peered into the flames at His behest, her fire-stricken eyes seeing prophecy within the crackling embers. Many divergent pathways were revealed, nearly each and every one leading to the young Marr's blood staining the Dark Lord's hands. But there were a few, so indistinct they could scarcely be seen, where the young Marr knelt before a throne of black crystal and twisted, flame-warped metal, and prostrated in obeisance to the tyrant perched upon it.

It was a slim future, for the young Marr's heart was thorough cancerous with treachery. His redress here did not diminish that fundamental truth. "Such things remain to be seen, Lord Marr. Do not believe your heart is as guarded as you say, you will only waste my time." The implication of threat was evident, the Dark Lord would not tolerate unnecessary misdirection. " Darth Xyrah has spoken to me at length of their proposal to you, it is something I am well aware of. Nothing occurs within my household that I do not possess knowledge of." A flash in the eyes, hidden danger.

"For many years I have advocated leniency for your numerous transgressions, Lord Marr. Starting today, that policy is nullified. If you truly believe your own words, then you will serve faithfully. If not, then I will strike you dead here and now. Your life rests entirely in your hands."

Darth Malum of House Marr | Fiolette Yvarro ​

 

[Jarek Voss]

"Weak!"

The words echoed through his mind like a dagger at the sudden realization of how he was acting, and coming across. He gave a slight , ahem, clearing his throat, but was more like resetting his mind. He clasped his hands behind his back, gave a slight nod towards Lunaria Talon in acknowledgement to her greeting. He tried his best to put up his "wall of strength", as Jarek came to call it. His lack of emotional control was another stark reminder of his lack of training, and social isolation outside of combat. Not just to Jarek himself, but to others that pay long enough attention to him.

"Yes. I am Jarek Voss, of Eshan." Jarek said, answering Soldane Talon ,

Jarek would not dare mention being a half-breed, at least not yet.

Taking the seat that was offered, Jarek rests his hands on his knees. "Yes...friends." Still unsure of what a "friend" even is, Jarek was attempting to go along with Rivan's thought.

"I must admit, I am surprised to see so many Echani in one spot, outside of Eshan."

---

TAGS: Anyone in the immediate area​

 

[Firrerreo]

"Renora Zambrano. Viers."

Firrerreo nodded once at the names. Smiled, perhaps a little too.. Smugly? Smug indeed. He listened to Viers though, brow raised. She didn't know of the Sponsors either? Oh, the poor girl was likely one of the ones picked up off the street and tossed here to be auctioned off if she turned out to be good and worth something. Kind of like him, then, but she wasn't even aware.

Was this pity?

He hummed as he reached into the shadowlike familiar in his pocket to seemingly pluck a fruit from nowhere. He wanted to keep his familiar as secret as possible, for now. Bottomless pocket would be easier. Firrerreo held it out for Viers, turning her gaze to the others gathered.

"No sponsor yet, Viers, but I'm sure I'll attract the right kind of attention soon. If not, well, it doesn't matter. I'm skilled enough that I'll make it through without one, if I have to. What of you, Renora Zambrano? That is a big family name, isn't it? Is your family sponsoring you?"

Unsurprising, if true. The rich always had an edge, even here in a place where they say only skill mattered. Money was a skill too.

Viers Connory | Renora zambrano

 

[Soldane Talon]

"So am I, but I guess it makes sense. Echani are martial, and this school is rather uh... martial I suppose.", 'Rivan' mused as he looked around, seeing a number of stark white hair, and genetic markers that clearly defined a large grouping of those gathered as Echani. He was about to continue, but Udren Zeln had approached - yet another Echani.​

​

"It's hard to be at your best if we're dehydrated and starving.", he offered the rather paranoid echani. Even still, there was a moment where Soldane considered if he was right - he wouldn't put it past the Proctors to try and see who among them could identify poison and who couldn't. More directly however, if that were the case, how long were they expected to go without refreshments? In this heat?​

​

Soldane hadn't even considered if they had planned the weather controls for that express purpose, and the deeper he dived into the thought, the more reason and opportunity seemed to align - but it wasn't worth losing sleep over. If he drank the water and were poisoned it would have much the same effect as if he didn't. Either way, he was going to lose.​

​

"I'm Rivan. This is Jarek Voss .", Soldane said with a motion to the other Echani that sat next to him.​

​

"We were just discussing how interesting it was that so many Echani have made it through the tests, and how convenient it could be to stick together - unless of course you want to do this alone.", Soldane said with a testing prod of a question.​

​

Lunaria Talon // Aerik Lechner​

 

[Soah Ty’Jyn]

Tag: Kai'lyn | Open​

While Soah hadn't passed with the highest of tiers, it was enough to prevent her from being culled at the onset. The decision had sent a shiver down her spine, stress levels rising. Already, she could feel the thickening of the fine fur along her skin, a slithering of motions under the dermis that seemed to coil and twist, wanting to come out.

There was no mistaking the way her nostrils flared, her heightened senses taking in the scents and aromas of those who were near her.

Focus. Do not shift. Do not shift.

The mantra was a chant in her head as she tightened her grip along the Tu'kata bone knife hilt. Needing a place to breathe, the dark haired girl darted out towards the main area, where she searched for a place where she could step away out of view. If she shifted... she had to find a place where she could hide.

There was no telling what would happen if she shifted then. While her clothing was crafted to fall apart if she suddenly shifted, returning would place her in a most embarrassing situation unless she could dress quickly.

It was then that she felt another's presence, too close.

Already anxious and stressed as she was, there was no helping her sudden draw of her blade as she held it aloft, intending to brandish it at throat level to the other who approached her.

"What do you want?!" Soah snarled practically a growl that thrummed in the back of her throat. The tiny hairs at the back of her neck were standing on end, energy and the Force thrumming in a wild current. ​

 

[Kai'lyn]

Soah Ty’Jyn

Kai'lyn had followed after her curiously, his movements smooth and deliberate. He didn't flinch as she spun on him, a devious little smirk plastered onto his features. "Some pheasant would be nice, or a leg of lamb perhaps... or maybe even a bite of something with claws," he practically purred, a small tongue flicking out to lick at a fang.

"If you hide back here, you won't get any food. Food is necessary for survival," he trailed off, eyeing her blade with a peculiar curiosity. "You smell different... almost like food... almost. Very different." He commented simply, his gaze locking onto hers. "Hiding away makes you look... suspicious."

Kai'lyn stepped closer, his presence an unnerving blend of predatory grace and sly amusement as his voice lowered to a conspiratory whisper. "What are you so afraid of? That someone might see the real you?"

 

[Aerik Lechner]

WEARING: xxx
TAG: Firrerreo | Irina Jesart | Veradun Sharr | Darth Carnifex | Marcus Dinn | Thelnic Vath | Jarek Voss | @Kai’lyn | Vestara VII | Viers Connory | Renora zambrano | Annika Starfire | Fiolette Yvarro | Darth Malum of House Marr
DIRECT ]TAG: Soldane Talon | Lunaria Talon | Meili Feng | Udren Zeln

Aerik stepped out of the way when he was told he had been blocking the view. Lunaria Talon had an interesting attitude considering the younger Lechner was simply trying to be nice, though he also supposed his attention was unwanted. He shrugged. His father had been in the good graces of the Empress Srina Talon for so long that he just assumed his kind got along with the Echani well. Clearly there was more to the story. At least she had accepted the water, even if it was with hesitation.

A sip, then it was passed to her brother.

“So do you have a sponsor yet,” he asked thinking it was the question of the hour for every one of them.

Aerik had his question as was about to take the seat next to her when Udren Zeln walked up toward the group, almost as if he were on a mission, and took the cup of water. His words were critical, and they were… challenging.

A low growl formed in the gullet of Aerik’s throat. It had not been the first time such a sound came from him, though the closer it came to the full moon the more difficulty he had controlling it. He was unaware it was a sign that his first change was coming soon, and there was no test the academy would put in front of him that would be more trying than that singular event. If his first change did not kill, there would be little that could.

When the water was poured on the ground, Aerik’s eyes seemed to gain in intensity. The way the fire danced was no longer a calm or collected motion, but rather they burned with the devastation which only came with a wildfire.

Blazing inferno met the cold ice of the Echani's silver eyes, doing his best to keep his words calm despite the swell of the beast within him.

“You might be right, but did anyone ever teach you to use the force to examine your food and drink before consuming it? If such properties you suggest would have existed, I would not have been able to use the force to call the water to my hands.”

Perhaps Aerik should not have dressed him down in front of the others, but perhaps he should have. What he had done could be seen as a challenge. They did not have to fight, but if he was going to be that bold in front of the other students, Aerik would look weak if he did not respond in some way.

His hand gripped the goblet too tightly, crushing it as the audible sound of it rang around them. While Aerik’s face remained the same, and his words did not give away too much annoyance, he could not say the same of the wolf which stirred within. It was angry, and even though Aerik usually kept himself in check, it seemed the beast within wanted out.

<< “Aerik, stop.” >>

Vyra’s calming voice was in his head.

<< “Force sake, and you were telling me not to show off. Look at the goblet… >>

Kole was naturally going to chime in to rub it in Aerik’s face. He was right though. Aerik was supposed to be the calm one, generally stoic in every way. It was the wolf. Even as the thought came to mind the pup could feel something wrapping itself around his spine. The tension was almost unbearable as the emotions of everyone around him crashed against his psyche… or was that still the wolf.

Aerik did not know. All he knew was that something was stirring, and he did not know how to control it.

Soldane Talon did have a point however. They would not be their best if they were dehydrated. However, Aerik did not feel the heat, not in the same way the others did. He could handle fire without being burned. His other comment made Aerik feel… he did not know how it made him feel. It was clear that the idea was to keep the Echani together at the expense of not allowing the others to be part.

Aerik had his pack, his siblings, but the thought that he may be rejected had never crossed his mind before. It was devastating for a beast which belonged in a pack with others. He was fortunate he had Kole and Vyra. They had been born together, but suddenly the reality of earning his place weighed upon him. His eyes turned to where his siblings were standing in the distance watching him make a fool of himself.

“My name is Aerik Lechner,” he said to the group before turning his attention back to Udren, “and I can assure you I will be at my best.”

Clearly he was wrong about his previous assumption. Maybe his kind did not get along with Echani at all.

 

[Matteo Guo-Yian]

This was a lot.

While everyone else seemed comfortable with mingling and getting to know one another, Matteo stood at the sidelines and observed. One would be forgiven to assume he thought himself above such matters, but in truth Matt wasn't really sure how to even begin. All of them felt... hungry, like they would devour each other and him without a moment of doubt, because it would serve their ambition and the ambition of their families. Matteo knew something about this, of course.

But Tion had been different still. When he left the confines of his family he was able to meet normal people... who weren't like this. He still felt conflicted about what had happened to his homeworld.

He understood it had to happen. The Sith had to send a message and Matteo felt grateful to the Zambranos for sheltering his family in return for generations of loyal service. But part of him, a small part that not even his family was allowed to see, felt guilty. Why was he allowed to survive while everyone he ever knew and grew up with were vaporized?

"You feel conflicted, Acolyte."

Matteo immediately straightened out while trying to keep his expression calm and neutral. "Contemplative, my Lord." He responded. "I am not used to this many people."

The Sith Lord circled around him as if he was a piece of meat on the menu.

"Your parents speak highly of you."

"I am gratef-"

"That means nothing, child. I would be more concerned if they didn't speak highly of their only son."

Matteo didn't respond but nodded quietly, keeping his sight straight ahead. "They performed a high service to Lord Carnifex, but that is their service... not yours. You will not be protected here. If you die on the first day, you will be forgotten and the memory of your failure erased, do you understand?"

"I-"

"Speak up." And the Sith twapped him over the head with the Force, seizing a strand of air like a ruler. "Your chains will be the end of you if you do not learn how to shatter them. Guilt, fear, you reek of it." Then a softer touch settled on his shoulder. "I promised your parents to look after you... and I will. But you will not thank me for it. By the end of your journey you will hate me... and then I will know my work is complete."

Before the Sith Acolyte say anything the Lord already moved on... and one of the servants urged him to quickly reveal his wrist. He hissed when the medical tool jabbed into his meat and extracted blood from him.

Apparently even in this day and age they couldn't figure out your midi-chlorian count without stabbing you.

What did she mean? Why would I hate those that help me on this path?

 

[Quinn Varanin]

//: Alina Tremiru //: Srina Talon //:

Quinn mused over the students, watching them think their way through the trials. This was something different from when they first attended school. She wondered how things would have been different if they had to do these things. Would she have ended up with the same student body? Would there have been others? So many questions and so few answers. Looking at Alina, she smiled. Quinn had hoped the woman would make an appearance. Events such as this were rare for the pair, and knowing that school wasn't the best for either of them was interesting.

Before Quinn could point out some of the students, Alina had already had her eye on one. Curiously, Quinn approached Alina to look at the student who had drawn the other blonde's attention. The little brunette bumbled around, completing the tasks in her unique way, making Quinn even more curious. Looking back towards Alina, she had an almost dumbfounded look. "I would not have expected you to choose that one. She looks so out of place." Quinn watched Viers again and shook her head, trying to wrap her thoughts around Alina's choice.

"May I ask why?" There was a deep desire to what about the bumbling brunette that drew Alina to her. Quinn needed to pick someone as well, which was why she had chosen to come watch the trials. The one thing that she hadn't been able to do. Quinn sometimes wanted to have an apprentice, remembering her stint under Taeli Raaf. Alina was the more involved apprentice, while Quinn was too busy galavanting around. She should reach out to Taeli for some training and guidance.

Eyes rested upon one of the few redheaded children. They looked unique, and Quinn had a good feeling about them. Pointing towards one, she smirked. "I pick that one. [ Zarava Dekki ] " Almost arrogant with her choice, Quinn looked to Alina for approval. "I think mine is better than yours."

From the corner of her eye, Quinn quickly noted that her godmother had appeared. A part of her felt the twinge of jealousy for her cousins. There were days at the academy she had wished Ashin had visited, especially since during her early days at the academy, her mother, Spencer, had been murdered. Dealing with that alone was something she hated to remember. The jealousy faded as she knew it wasn't the twins' fault or Srina's. Her godmother had stepped in and became more of the mother figure she needed. "My godmother's here; we should say hello when we get a chance, I'd like to tell her that you've so graciously proposed." Quinn teased and winked at the other woman.

 

[Fiolette Yvarro]

Fiolette knew the reputation Srina had cultivated long before her ascension to Empress. Hands clasped behind her back, she listened attentively to the Empress speak both to herself and to the Dark Councilor. Her attention was drawn to the three children as pointed out by their father on the screen. "Mhmmm," she acknowledged, understanding the Dark Councilor's desire to avoid nepotism. In the Sith Empire, nepotism could be both a boon and a curse.

Empress Talon spoke, indicating that while the testing was standard, it was too soon in the trials to see where promise lay. Fiolette, ever the pragmatist, was less concerned with midichlorian counts and more with the practical feats the potential leaders of the Sith Empire demonstrated. "Of course," she affirmed, recognizing that more than mere skill was being tested.

The Empress's disdain for traditional nepotism was clear, and while Fiolette could appreciate the sentiment, she knew the reality within the Sith Empire. "Bravery, after all, will only get them so far. It is less brave to follow your master into the heat of battle than it is simply duty and courage," she began, her tone measured and authoritative. "Inspiration comes from action and necessity. While it is essential for them to strive for greater heights, potential often hides in those who may not yet shine brightly."

Fiolette's gaze remained steady as she continued. "Merit should indeed carry more weight than blood or bribes. However, the Sith Empire has long been entrenched in its ways. True meritocracy within the Empire is rare, and often higher offices are filled based on connections rather than competence." Her wife, an example of meritocracy, Taeli had proven herself invaluable to one empire after another.

She paused, considering the Empress's words about the tests. "These trials assess physical capability and mental focus, but they are not comprehensive. The true measure of leadership and strength lies in how one responds to adversity."

Reflecting on historical battles, Fiolette mused aloud, "I wonder how these acolytes would fare in scenarios that tested past Sith leaders. Strength alone does not make one capable of rule, but of service. True leadership is about making difficult decisions under pressure."

Fiolette's voice carried the weight of her experience as a seasoned naval commander. "In the end, the Empire's prosperity hinges on order, strength, and hierarchy. We must cultivate leaders who embody these tenets through merit and capability, ensuring our dominion remains unchallenged and absolute."

Srina Talon | Gerwald Lechner ​