Faction NEO | Cin Vhetin

[Brent Warnel]

TAANAB

What did it mean to be Mandalorian? To every Mando'ade, it meant something different. Some might tell you it was family, others that it was a state of being. It was life. It was all they knew, all they craved.

For Brent, it was strength. His attraction to the Idea was simple, and it kept him going for years. Even when he had disappeared for years and left the vod around him with no explanation, the culture called to him in his darkest times, drawing him back.

He returned, a broken Mandalorian, but still a Mandalorian. He sought to rekindle the flame that had driven him for years, fix his mind, and change his state of being. Become a true Mandalorian again. But he would need his brothers and sisters for that. Brent had tried to fix his broken mind on his own, but he had failed. He couldn't remember what had fractured his soul, but it was deep in his being, eating away at him, and he needed to cut it out.

After years in the galaxy's darkest depths, he had returned to Mandalorian space, hoping for a reminder of the past and a path to the future. Hoping the Mandalorians he had once called family would accept him back and heal the part of him that was dying.

He sought Taanab, a beautiful world he had visited years ago. He traveled far from the population centers, deep within the world's wilder places, and set up camp. He didn't own much, so his camp was small. His armor lay near him, battered and in dire need of repair, his weapons much the same.

A large fire was roaring near him that he had built. The cracking wood and dancing flames blurred the visions in his head and gave him peace or the nearest thing to it.

He had sent out calls on every Mandalorian channel he still knew. The message was simple, "Cin Vhetin." A fresh start. That's what he needed: a fresh start and guidance. He longed to have a purpose again, a direction.

He hoped old and new vod alike would respond to the call, come to Taanab, and find him. He wasn't sure what his goal was, but he wanted to reminisce with fellow Mando'ade and eat, fight, drink, and be Mandalorian. When he was younger, he remembered the large gatherings of Mandalorians he used to be a part of. He remembered the joy that had brought him, the feeling of camaraderie. Brent had not felt like that in far too long.

So he waited, a slight chiming sound in his ear from the nearby locater beacon he had placed, broadcasting his location. He gazed into the fire and let his mind wander.

 

[Ninurta Slaabur'r]

From the dim underbrush, a low growl emerged, guttural and menacing. A charhound, its fiery eyes reflecting the blaze of the campfire, stepped into view. Its molten-red form shimmered as embers puffed from its nostrils with each exhale. The beast's attention was fixed on Brent, a predator sizing up prey. The charhound's growl softened, its head jerking toward the bushes to its right. From the shadowy foliage, a figure stepped forward, clad in armor etched with the marks of countless battles. His helmet hung at his side, revealing the angular, sharp-featured face of a Falleen. His green skin shimmered faintly in the firelight, and his cyan gaze—settled on Brent Warnel

"Vod," the Falleen said, his voice a smooth, melodic cadence that carried a weight of solemnity and grace, "You summon the wind to find its kin. Through flame and ash, the call of Cin Vhetin rises as a song that echoes across the stars. I, Ninurta, have answered." He stepped closer, movements fluid and deliberate, his charhound obediently following at his side. He surveyed Brent's state—the worn armor, the distant gaze—and then inclined his head.

 

[Reggie Rau]

STORM
CAMP | TAANAB
TAG: Brent Warnel | Ninurta Slaabur'r | Open

ATTENTION ATTENTION​

Reggie had been wandering aimlessly.

She'd been restless. Celt Saxon and the rest may have been more than content to remain on Kestri, to hold the fort there. But to the last Rau, that wasn't an option. Everyone else still had their families. Their clans. She didn't.

She had travelled far and wide, trying to either find at least one other Rau or hoping she'll come across a single Jedi to wipe them off the face of the Galaxy. She'd become a wandering spirit, always seeking but not finding.

But she had always avoided returning home.

When the message came through, however, she almost reconsidered. Cin vhetin. For her, it was a loaded call. If anyone was in need of a fresh start, it was her. And she could at least get herself to return to Taanab, even if she still didn't feel up for setting foot on Concord Dawn again.

So she had made the journey, a weight slowly lifting with her return to the territory that she had been raised in. She had learned some from the Mando'ade that now held the territory. Just perhaps, she could avenge her family through this group. Or find one more of her kin.

Her scarred red armour appeared from the underbrush, her helmet clipped to her belt.
"Vode." she greeted the two men before her attention was drawn to the charhound at the Falleen's side. "Son, you got nothing on Dima. If you play nice, I might spare you some meat." she told it before approaching the fire.

"Regina Rau. What names do they call you?"

 

[Vreegan Fett]

Reggie Rau Ninurta Slaabur'r Brent Warnel

Vreegan had chosen to distance himself from his vode in Clan Fett for several reasons, some of which were deeply personal, including their tumultuous history with the Sons of Mandalore under the Imperial rule of Emperor Tavlar and Fel, who had offered them scant rewards for the blood shed on countless battlefields.

Despite these personal convictions and emotions, he would never turn against the Clans of Mandalore, regardless of the changing tides or the intentions of powerful foes seeking to eradicate them permanently.

Though the true meaning of Mandalorian Culture was starting to become lost with each new generation stretching back to the Enclave's ill-awarded campaign against the Galactic Alliance and now the Neo-Crusaders were suffering the same fate unless things changed.

He arrived on Taanab following an inspection of a Supply Depot on Concordia, having received a notification through an official channel to convene for the "Cin Vhetin." This term is a stylized expression indicating that the Crusaders required fresh insights and a new direction in the aftermath of the Raid on Keshi.

" Vreegan Fett - Suppymaster of Shogun. " He responded with a soft grunt to Reggie Rau , stepping out from the foliage encircling the campfire.

He acknowledged both the Beastmaster Ninurta Slaabur'r and Brent Warnel , who had arrived prior to him, with a nod.

 

[Careena Fett]

The Wolf

C a r e e n a _ F e t t

| Location | Taanab​

| Objective | Answer the call​

Where there was a call, there were those who would answer. For Careena, there was none that she would not answer - kin or not, they were all warriors and in a way they were all family, if not by blood then by creed. Those who were lost would be found and reminded of the common lineage they all shared. Her presence was absent at the raid of Keshi, though she had full confidence in the warriors under Carduul Akahl 's vigilant command, sent to accomplish what they set out to do without her. This gave her an opportunity to recover from her own injuries and consolidate supplies and resources for the battles ahead.​

​

Careena soon emerged from the brush, the flicker of flames casting a ghostly shadow over her muted armor, a hand raised to hold the strap of the rifle slung over her shoulder. As she approached there were those that she recognized and those she didn't. The most obvious of those present was the beastmaster Ninurta Slaabur'r , and less known to her the supplymaster and fellow clansmen Vreegan Fett , whom she heard of in name, but had never formally met. The others were unknown to her both in name and reputation, though she was certain that would soon change.​

​

As Careena approached the campfire, she let her hands move to her helmet, giving it a light twist as it hiss softly before lifting it up off her head, tucking it away beneath her arm. She offered her own subtle nod of acknowledgement to those present out of respect. Her features seemed worn, but there was a subtle warmth and happiness in meeting her fellow Mandalorians, old and new. She spoke to announce herself, " Careena Fett, Alor of Clan Fett. "​

Brent Warnel | Reggie Rau​

​

 

[Carduul Akahl]

The lost. The wandering. The hopeless. There were many such individuals amidst their kind. He would bring them home.

Carduul had taken a brief interlude away from the frontlines, carrying new scars and injuries directly after the intense Raid of Keshi. There had not been much activity offensive-wise asides from such; with rapid growth came the importance of managing logistics. Scouting reports, fortifications, recruitment - these vital subjects were what he had immersed himself with. Often he was required to visit several different locations across Mandalorian space to ensure operations proceed smoothly.

But above all, recruitment had always been his utmost priority. To urge forth the creation of a new generation of Mandalorians, who would carry their ideals and legacy into battle and beyond. Who would do as they did, and spread their Way to whomever they could for the benefit of all who had the heart to endure it. Conscriptions, recruitment drives, such things demanded the proper hand to guide it to avoid subversion.

So when his travels came across the signal of ‘Cin Vhetin,’ echoing across the stars like a beacon for those who sought to reclaim their destinies, he was obligated by duty to investigate. He had set the coordinates to the origin as soon as possible.

Navigating the foliage to the smoke trailing into the sky was simple enough. Within a short time of landing, the rustling of foliage crunched underfoot, and notable taps from an ever-present polearm against dirt resounded as he emerged. Armor-clad in the ancient design, crimson and sleek, the smaller visor had swept across those present. He recognized a few familiar faces in the crowd.

After a moment of regard for opening statements, he spoke; “Hail to thee, vode. I am Carduul Akahl. Rally Master of the renewed Crusade.” Came the decree. There was no declarations of a Clan nor of other titles - for the Crusade was his utmost duty to his people, so inseparable from who he was. Steps had ventured forth, drawing close to the roaring bonfire. “I bring with me tales of the past, and what could be the future.”

Brent Warnel | Ninurta Slaabur'r | Reggie Rau | Vreegan Fett | Careena Fett

 

[Brent Warnel]

Brent felt the reverberations in his chest from Ninurta Slaabur'r beast as it exited the foliage and stared him down, growling. This type of animal was unknown to him, and he would rather keep it that way as he observed the thing. As far as he was aware this was not native to Taanab, and his heart began to beat faster as he realized he was probably in for a fight. Maybe something other than his brothers picked up his call.

Those fears were quickly put to rest as a Mando strode from the forest edge. Brent climbed to his feet, his injured foot gnawing at the back of his mind, and faced the newcomer. The figure had a sharp-featured face, well worn armor, and walked with the sure footed grace of a killer. A true Mando‘ade.

Brent listened as his melodic cadence, an almost calming voice to Brent, reached its way to him.

Ninurta. Brent let the name roll around his mind. It was unfamiliar to him. Yet at the same time, almost familiar.

“Olarom, Vod,” Brent said to the newcomer as he approached him. He saw the newcomer incline his head and Brent realized how he must have looked. A broken Mando.

”Thank you for coming. Please, join me. I-“ Brent’s words were cut short as another Mando, Reggie Rau walked into the clearing. Helmet clipped to her belt, she walked confidently towards the fire and said, "Son, you got nothing on Dima. If you play nice, I might spare you some meat."

Regina was her name.

“Brent, Clan Warnel,” Brent replied to Regina as she approached. Brent glanced back over at Ninurta and inclined his head, indicating the greeting was for him as well.

Brent opened his mouth to speak but stopped as heavy foot falls and a commanding voice cut through the clearing. Vreegan Fett stepped out of the nearby foliage, announcing his name and briefly nodding in Brent’s direction. Brent nodded back, hope kindling in his chest as another Vod arrived.

Careena Fett was next. She approached the fire with a lithe grace, removing her helmet as she did and announcing herself as Alor of Clan Fett. Brent gave her a deeper nod, giving her the respect of her position.

Brent made to speak, but again another Vod entered the clearing.

Clad in armor resembling an ancient design, Carduul Akahl approached the fire. Rally Master of the renewed Crusade, promises of past tales and a potential path to the future, the new Mandalorian confidently announced his station. Brent nodded in respect to the Rally master.

Brent was unfamiliar with these Mando’ade. Some he recognized by name from communication on Keshi, but he had not directly served with them there.

“I must admit you all are unknown to me on a personal level, and I can only appreciate your respect in answering the call. I don’t have much in the way of food but,” Brent walked to where his gear was lying on the ground. With a slight limp from his damaged leg he grabbed a large metal barrel with one arm and his battered helmet with the other. He drug the barrel to the fire and roughly placed it near him. He turned the spout on the barrel and poured a hefty amount of a strong smelling liquid into his helmet and took a drink.

“Drinks aplenty.”

 

[Armel]

Taanab

Behind the Rallymaster another crusader walked, his armour was blue and was free of battle damage and scars. Armel walked with his hand resting on his blaster holster. At heart he was still an underworld assassin and despite his often carefree demeanour he was still wary to trust both friends and enemies alike.

After the Rallymaster introduced himself the zeltron spoke. "Crusader Armel... of Er'kit." he said awkwardly. He had learned the importance of the clan name and as he was yet to be adopted by a clan he was still entirely unsure how to introduce himself.

He looked to the Rallymaster as Carduul talked of tales of the past before turning his head back to those assembled and with a wry grin under his helmet he spoke.

"I dunno what I bring."

Armel didn't even fully understand why he was here as well. Cin vhetin was what he was told. His mando'a was still crude so it's true meaning remained lost on the foundling. What was not lost on him however was the barrel of alcohol that had been dragged to the centre of the fire pit. Armel can't remember when last had a good drink, the strict training regime he had been under left little room for occasions like this.

But he hesitated, instead his eyes turned to the Rallymaster, what would he do?

Brent Warnel Carduul Akahl Careena Fett Vreegan Fett Ninurta Slaabur'r Reggie Rau​

 

[Vreegan Fett]

Reggie Rau Ninurta Slaabur'r Brent Warnel Careena Fett Armel Carduul Akahl

Vreegan reclined at ease on a nearby log while an increasing number of voices resonated from the shadows as they emerged one by one around the central firepit.

Each one of them Reggie Rau , Ninurta Slaabur'r , Brent Warnel , Alor Careena Fett , Crusader Armel and Rally Master Carduul Akahl had their own distinct motivations and beliefs regarding the necessity of the Mandalorian Neo-Crusaders' success but they could never unite such ideals beyond a mere superficial banner and ideological movement.

He would not blame the present state of the Mandalorian people on individual disunity but the failure to grow and reflect from each enemy they faced from Butcher-King Zambrano to the swords of the Jedi Knights would doom them to be forgotten in history and that was a thought that was unacceptable to Vreegan.

They might fall in battle but their oral traditions had to live on even if the galaxy collapsed around them. As he took a sip from a personal flask containing potent alcohol, he resolved to express his views, irrespective of their acceptance. Action was necessary; mere idle conversation and lighthearted discussions were insufficient.

" Rally Master Carduul, what have you learned from facing the Grandmaster on Keshi. Are there any personal or combat-related vulnerabilities that we might exploit in the event of future interference by the Alliance in our campaign? " He spoke with a low tone of voice through the visor of the helmet, directing such a question towards Carduul Akahl .

The morale of the Jedi appeared to be heavily reliant on the Grandmaster; eliminating her would inflict a significant setback on their forces, leading to easier victories on the battlefield and an increase in successful engagements.

 

[Carduul Akahl]

Upon the offer of a drink, the helm tilted. He did not indulge often.

Then again, he just returned after yet another conquest. A small moment of respite was earned.

Gaze slightly turned to Armel , noting the expressionless look he had given unto him, and gave a soft nod in reply. “It is a welcome surprise there is anything at all.” Came the reply to Brent Warnel , “It is a pleasure to make your acquaintances, vode.” The small grin underneath the helmet could not be seen, though it was nonetheless present as he motioned to take a seat amidst the gathering. As several rested, Vreegan Fett posed a direct question regarding the newest exploits from Keshi. News of his deeds, it seemed, travelled faster than he anticipated.

“I have fought several of their council now. The Jedi have not changed much in their ways. They believe they have evolved, but I still see the same flaws of yore.” Came the words in response. Steps pace around the bonfire, gaze focused intently upon those assembled. “Some opt to copy us, aiming to use technology and blasters to supplant their witchery. Believe me, they make poor studies. Their reliance on their tricks cripples them in every other department.”

There was a brief pause, as he thought upon the matter of the Grandmaster. It was a complicated encounter. Once again, he could’ve mentioned they had recently gone through childbirth - but he opted not to. Family, no matter the case, was sacred to a Mandalorian. Posing a newborn child as a weakness to be exploited was as cowardly as it was overtly cruel. He continued further, with a gesture of his free hand across the stars above.

“They believe themselves infallible. Though they know of the enemies at their doorstep, and they still see fit to rest while they are surrounded. To dismiss, and regard us as insignificant compared to the sebaceous complexes they have built in the core. ‘Tis true, I have noted new machinations in an attempt to stave our assaults - but it is merely another obstacle to be exploited. That confidence is what we must exploit, the subtle growing fear of the populace as they tighten defenses; they must be bled dry. The Raids thus far have been effective measures to produce shock and fear, but they will not win the war alone.”

Eventually, he settled upon the grass. Legs crossed as he produced a small canteen, turning on the spout of the barrel for the alcohol inside. Tihaar, perhaps. He leaned aback, raising it in the image of a toast, before taking a sip from the flask. The drink was certainly something to wake one's senses.

“...I have learned that it is not the Jedi we should concern ourselves with at every possibility. They are the tantalizing targets that urge you to fall upon them with all your might, so that you will have none left when the next target presents. It is everything that keeps those Jedi fighting during their battles that we should concern ourselves with. Their resources, their people, their hardware. The time is approaching where we must adapt beyond mere Raids. As for the Grandmaster themselves?”

His hand motioned to grasp the poleaxe, “I fought more with her consort, for they gave me little chance to fight the Grandmaster herself. They are often together when possible, from what battlefield reports tell me. She was wholly the shield at the time, while the other was the sword. It seems they play upon some variation of these roles. If there is anything I can say upon the matter; beware any sense of pressure you may feel - they are not above using more direct tricks to crush and maim, for the consort was aggressive and forceful with their abilities. The Grandmaster caught me off guard by holding me before the consort struck a blow, though it came at a cost to herself thanks to my brothers. Not to mention a disappearing trick that saw the Consort move from one place to the Grandmaster before even my own senses could perceive. Blasters, grenades, rockets - these are distractions that allowed me to maintain pressure. You will see the most success with allies at your side and a blade in hand.”

There was a period of silence, as gaze took stock once again of the more unfamiliar faces to his mind. He refocused the topic upon the matter of which they were present for; renewal. “Tell me, brothers and sisters; you all answered this call for your separate reasons. Be it for rest, to search, or to learn. I wish to hear them for myself. I am here for a simple matter - to bring more Mando’ade into the fold of the Crusade.”

Brent Warnel | Ninurta Slaabur'r | Reggie Rau | Vreegan Fett | Careena Fett

 

[Ninurta Slaabur'r]

There was a period of silence, as gaze took stock once again of the more unfamiliar faces to his mind. He refocused the topic upon the matter of which they were present for; renewal. “Tell me, brothers and sisters; you all answered this call for your separate reasons. Be it for rest, to search, or to learn. I wish to hear them for myself. I am here for a simple matter - to bring more Mando’ade into the fold of the Crusade.”

Ninurta inclined his head slightly, the faint glint of firelight reflecting off his visage as his voice carried a measured, almost reverent tone.

"The whisperbirds of Yavin 4, fierce wanderers of the sky, know the songs of their kin as if etched into their very souls. So too are we, Mando'ade. We know our own not by sight alone, but by the resonance of purpose that thrums in every action, every word, and every battle cry. This is the way." he said even toned. Falling into a kneeling position by the fire and extended a gauntleted hand to pat his charhound at his side.

Tags: Yeah...

 

[Reggie Rau]

STORM
CAMP | TAANAB
TAG: Y'all know who you are

ATTENTION ATTENTION​

Reggie listened to the names resounding around her.

Only one rang familiar - Alor Careena Fett . She had seen the armour once or twice on Kestri, along with others of Clan Fett. From stories she heard of decades ago, the Fetts once had a strong alliance with the Enclave, aiding them in numerous battles over the years.

Now the Enclave was all but a shell, no longer capable of bringing Reggie that which she sought - the complete and utter ruin of the Alliance. Of the Jedi. Retribution for her family. Perhaps this group of Mando'ade could muster the strength to accomplish what the Enclave started. It was time that the Jedi once more felt the fear they had felt during the war of the Enclave. They had grown bold since and that needed remedying.

She listened as the others spoke and realised that they were less equipped than she initially thought. They needed more.
Instead of answering the Rallymaster, she looked at Vreegan Fett instead. "None of them have much answer for basilisks. Not even the Butcher-King himself had an answer when an improved one defended its rider. I have seen for myself the Jedi's consternation when the beasts are called in to flatten neighbourhoods and military assets. I can procure some of these improved beasts for the Crusade if its in need of that aid. They are masters in taking out resources necessary to the Alliance and the Jedi - including ships." she suggested. She had one herself now, even though she left the droid behind on Kestri for this trip. "The Rallymaster speaks true. Strip away all the resources surrounding the Jedi, even people, and they'll have nothing left to hide behind." She had seen it herself during the Enclave's assault on the Alliance. If they had kept the momentum, the Jedi would have had a civil war to deal with as well as fighting the Mando'ade.

She then finally looked at Carduul Akahl to answer him, her face etched in cold, hard lines as eyes flashed in the firelight as she spoke.
"I am here to see an end to the murderers of my Clan. Can the Crusade give me that?" came the deadpan.

"I'll gladly come into the fold along with more resources if the Crusade can do that."

 

[Careena Fett]

The Wolf

C a r e e n a _ F e t t

| Location | Taanab​

| Objective | Answer the call​

" Food and drink are what we have in abundance with our raids young Warnell, do not trouble yourself with such worry. The prospect of returning a lost soul back to our people is far more valuable than an empty stomach. "​

​

Careena stepped over to a fallen log, leaning down as she sat herself by the fire. It was cozy in a way to be sat around a fire surrounded by brothers and sisters in arms, even if there was talk of how best to combat the Jedi. The Jedi she was less particularly concerned about - It was the resources they had at their disposal that was the problem, backed and supported by the Alliance with all its territories and funding. " As Carduul Akahl stated, they are of little consequence to our warriors once you rob them of their cheap tricks. Take away their advantage, isolate them, and overwhelm them with numbers and they will fall. They may be skilled with their lightsabers, but even the best of them can't protect themselves when surrounded and fired at simultaneously. "​

​

Carduul had followed up with a question posed to the group as to why they were here, but he already knew her intentions. Their people needed to be reminded of their history, their lineages and to once again find the strength and courage to be what their people were destined to be - the greatest warriors in the Galaxy. She wished to see that passion and pride rekindled, a dream where Mandalorians of all races, creeds, and backgrounds could unite and embrace a single vision - the advancement of their people, united as one, for there was no greater force in the Galaxy than a united Mandalorian people. It may not be a dream that she would realize in her lifetime, but if she could sow its seeds for the future generations, then she would watch with pride and fulfillment when she became one with the manda alongside her fellow warriors and ancestors.​

​

As Reggie Rau spoke, Careena nodded before commenting, " They have improved their anti-air capabilities from what I had seen on Onderon, even my own modified Basilisk had some trouble with them. We will need to start equipping our own with better countermeasures. We don't have the numbers or resources to lose valuable riders or basilisk, so it will be important to ensure their ability to remain on the field and be able to provide support. "​

​

She gave pause as her attention shifted specifically to Reggie's comment on vengeance, " The Crusade welcomes all and offers many things, none of which are guaranteed for what is a guarantee but a promise that could be broken. Rather than facing it alone, however, you now have a new family to help you avenge your fallen one. The Crusade offers you that chance, and the ability to do so young Rau. You are owed blood for blood, so seize it. "​

​

Brent Warnel | Ninurta Slaabur'r | Vreegan Fett | Armel​

 

[Armel]

Taanab

With the Rallymaster's approval a big wide grin formed under his helmet, one that remained plastered to his face when he took his helm off. Clipping it to his belt he then grabbed his metal canteen and walked over to the barrel. As the others began to talk Armel poured out the last splashes of water in his canteen and began filling it up with whatever potent alcohol that was in the barrel.

As he poured he turned to Brent and gave him a nod. "Cheers pal, smells like the good stuff."

After a few seconds of pouring he turned the tap off and swished his canteen to hear the liquid inside slosh about. Satisfied he had poured enough he found his own spot by the fire. Armel sat sprawled out and he took a swig of the drink straight away. Despite it's potency he barely winced, anything was 'the good stuff' compared to the toilet wine they had in the slave pits.

Discussion soon filled the air, talk of Jedi, their weaknesses and the purpose of this little gathering. Armel couldn't speak about the abilities of the Jedi, he'd never met one. It had seemed their galactic peacekeeping never quite extended out to Er'kit. As for his purpose here? He took another swig here. He didn't know what else to do but look towards the Mandalorians around him. The Zeltron decided he was here to listen, not yap away and so for once Armel elected to try and remain quiet.

Brent Warnel Carduul Akahl Careena Fett Vreegan Fett Ninurta Slaabur'r Reggie Rau​

 

[Vreegan Fett]

Reggie Rau Ninurta Slaabur'r Brent Warnel Careena Fett Armel Carduul Akahl

Vreegan retrieved a datapad from his belt to document the information shared by Rally Master Carduul Akahl regarding the Grandmaster and Her Consort. It appeared that the two operated in unison, suggesting a connection that enhanced their effectiveness in combat compared to engaging individually and that was something that the Mandalorians could exploit during a future engagement.

" It would be wise to examine the Rally Master's insights in the event that any of us come across the Legendary Noble and her progeny during combat. It is essential to isolate them from each other with sufficient firepower, then kill them off in a swift blow. " He voiced outloud to the group, taking another sip from the alcoholic flask.

The chilled liquid did not impair his mind, as it was a relatively small quantity, in case any of the Mandalorians present were aligned with the adversary or had their own ambitions that went against the creed of the Crusade.

His fingers returned to the screen, which displayed the additional information provided by Alor Careena Fett and Reggie Rau . They proposed the deployment of basilisk wardroids, whose association with the Mandalorians dates back numerous centuries, granting them an initial advantage in their conflicts against the ancient Jedi Knights.

This strategy appeared poised to benefit them once more. However, they remained susceptible to concentrated fire from the anti-air and flak batteries that the Alliance was persistently advancing.

" Then we shall adapt and overcome such vulnerabilities, as we have always had to do in order to survive. I suggest we send of our vode to investigate a company known as Si Tech, one of the Alliance's premier corporations and supplier of military technology. Understanding them and there technological weaknesses will serve us well " Vreegan remarked after a considerable interval.

Permitting the others to deliberate on various matters, including vengeance and their motivations for arriving at this location. He refrained from addressing the inquiry until an appropriate moment, as he believed that Mandalorians were not yet deserving of such intimate details.

 

[Brent Warnel]

"Likewise, brother," Brent responded to Carduul Akahl .

Brent had not initially seen Armel , who came into the clearing behind the Rally Master as Brent had retrieved the barrel. Brent nodded at the newcomer and motioned towards the barrel, "I don't know what I bring either," he said towards Armel as he watched him walk towards the fire. Armel stopped short of the barrel and looked towards the Rally Master. After a brief nod from the other Mandalorian, Armel lightened up and poured himself a drink. Brent noted this; it seemed Armel was still trying to find his place.

Brent then listened as Vreegan Fett questioned Carduul Akahl about his conflict with the Jetii on Keshi. Based on Carduul's response, he had acquitted himself quite well. The Jedi Carduul had fought were strong, and he was lucky to have had brothers beside him. Brent felt a pit in his stomach, knowing he had not been there to help. It would have been a welcome challenge. Carduul continued to speak of ways to combat the Jedi, and for the most part, Brent agreed with him.

Brent turned his attention to Careena Fett , stating, "Thank you, Alor," after she spoke to him, "It means much to me to be able to find family again. Those Mandalorians I used to call family years ago, I have not heard from since. I'm afraid they are lost to me and lost to the galaxy."

Brent watched Ninurta Slaabur'r approach the fire with his beast in tow and listened to the others speak of their troubles, or ideas for the future. Bringing more neophytes into the fold, learning ways to defeat Jedi, or, in the case of Reggie Rau , vengeance against the Alliance. Brent could get onboard with that, although his ancient enemy was, and would always be, the Sith.

The conversation turned towards potential ways of fighting the Jedi, fighting the Alliance. It also turned towards a topic Brent had not heard for a long time: Basilisk's. The Wardroids were legendary. They hearkened back to ancient times when they saw action in the old wars with the Republic.

"I agree, Vreegan Fett . The Rally Master gives valuable information that should be listened to. We should use that information. That information, coupled with the connections those around us have," Brent looked at Reggie as he said this, "and a plan for the future would put us on a solid path."

Brent realized he may have been speaking out of turn now. Who was he to put forth ideas to these Mandalorians. He was a newcomer here, regardless of how long he had been Mandalorian. Those brothers and sisters he had bled with in his time in the Clans were no longer around, and his word carried little weight.

"Forgive me, who am I to give lecture here."

Brent took another drink before addressing Carduul Akahl . "As for me, Carduul, I am here for-"

He slammed his eyes shut as the memory came unbidden again. Death. A flash of searing hot pain from collarbone to hip. Brent closed his eyes and grimaced as he somehow felt the pain. He felt himself dying in the jungles of a faraway moon. Forgotten by everyone. Akin.

The memory left, and so did the pain, and he opened his eyes again.

He took a deep breath before he answered, "I must go to Dxun. There is something there for me, though I do not know what. I will help this Crusade, but first, I must help myself."

Brent clutched his helmet close to him, almost scared to let his mind wander again, knowing what was waiting deep within the recesses of his memories.

 

[Carduul Akahl]

Carduul had fallen silent as Careena Fett responded to Reggie Rau ‘s query. A logical and simple question, of which he had provided the answer to several times now. The Alor of Clan Fett’s offered words that may as well be the same ones he would’ve provided. A nod followed, “The Crusade is our vengeance against all of our foes. It is insurance that our future generations will be safeguarded forever more, by removing subversive elements entirely.” His helm tilted, taking stock of her appearance and visible equipment. “You strike me as one from the Enclave, which fell gloriously after the Alliance proved once again their unwillingness to leave us to our business. Careena speaks the truth; you would not be alone in your desire, not left wanting for the opportunity to indulge.”

As he took another sip from a helmet-attached straw, his gaze briefly wandered elsewhere, peering to the nature that surrounded them and the stars above. In all honesty, this was…pleasant. Even with the backdrop of war as a discussion, these brief moments spent in the comfort of his kin were what he fought for.

Attention quickly refocused as the Vreegan Fett mentioned the surname Si. A soft ‘hmh’ escaped the helm. “Blockades are more than feasible with the positions we hold across the Mid-Rim. It was a great deal of trouble to secure it, but it was for the sake of such a tactic we did so. Technology firms started by - if I am not mistaken - a Jedi, seem like a bland joke. They attempt to manufacture weapons against us, but lack the finesse to use them. The last time I fought such a weapon, it seemed like a pale imitation of Mandalorians of today - pelting away with ineffectual bolts at a distance. Phah.” A scoff punctuated his thought, at the recollection of his battle upon Umbara.

Carduul had listened throughout, and was pleased to hear of Brent’s enthusiasm regarding the dissemination of information. A gauntleted hand raised, dismissively waving at the notion of lecturing; “Fret not - your vigor is good to see. Too many Mandalorians have lost their heart and dare not even speak upon such a subject.” Was the reassurance towards Brent Warnel . Though he had quieted as the man directly addressed him, noting the longer pause betwixt his words. The Rally Master did not pry further, as he set the canteen aside.

“I have long watched over Dxun. I am proud to be able to decree it as a bastion of our people once more. If that is where you believe you will find yourself once again, amidst the fresh blood being cultivated there, then that is where you must go.” Came his decree thereafter. “I will be more than happy to take you there, once thou’rt prepared.”

Brent Warnel | Ninurta Slaabur'r | Reggie Rau | Vreegan Fett | Careena Fett