Faction New Blood // Inaugural Trials

[Kivah]

She hit the ground hard, without enough time to adjust her angle or how she was going to land. The ground came up and smacked into her hip as the angle forced her leg out. Before Kivah could even think of springing back to her feet, the tuk'ata was whirling upon her for its vengeance, as if to punish her for daring to land upon its back. She had a vision of its tooth-filled maw dripping saliva and coming towards her face and she did the only thing she could think of in that moment. Kivah's hand shot out and grabbed its tongue. It was slick and moist and writhed as the beast tried to free it from her hand, suddenly reversing direction to pull back.

The tongue was already slipping from her grasp when she let it go, her fingers curling to grip the inside of its jaw and letting it pull her to her feet. Acting quick, she didn't stay there long as the tuk'ata bit down on her fingers. It pulled her one way, then the other as it tried to rag her with a kill shake. Instead of letting it, Kivah pressed in close, tensing the arm and leaping to hook a leg over its neck. Then her other clamped close around its neck. Her weight supported between her clenching thighs and trapped fingers, she drew another arrow. Blood was beginning to seep from her hand and pool under the glove of the biosuit as the warbeast worried at her trapped fingers and she stabbed the arrow into its neck and around the eyes repeatedly, anything to get it to roar. The spines protruding from its head got in her way as the sharp teeth slowly pressed their way through her armor's protection and into her skin.

Finally she got it up the nostril with the arrow, a pain in the sinuses Kivah was sympathetic to forcing it to cry out. Quick as a flash, Kivah had her other hand in its mouth, prying it open from the top and bottom. The tuk'ata was backing up and trying to shake the hundred and twenty kilo Cathar loose as she braced herself, the open maw being held right in line with her strangest arm and core muscles. Then Kivah began to pull. The Udyr biosuit helped, enhancing her already considerably strong musculature as her fingers gripped between the sharp points of the teeth. The two strained against each other until Kivah threw her head back, her helmet splitting open and folding back as, with a yowling roar, she activated her secret weapon. Laced through her dense and sleek Denik muscles were strands of rybcoarse to reinforce and add to her strength.

Steadily now, the tuk'ata's straining jaw was pulled to its limit as it fought her, its tail lashing across her in blind panic and pain to tear at her jacket. Until, with a grinding series of snaps that she could feel, its jaw broke. It screamed an agonizing scream of pain and rage as Kivah kept at it, splitting its cheeks as she peeled the creature's jaw down its throat until her leg prevented her from pulling it any further.

It died thrashing and spurting blood, its major arteries breached and throat torn asunder. Kivah stood next to it and looked back at Micah's kill and him above before placing a thumb alongside her nose to clear the other nostril of blood that had spurted up it with a shot of air. "Did not know who he was fracking with." The hot blood steamed some in the cold air and shadows of the valley they were in as she examined the one he'd crushed. "Good job, Rao." She told him while still using Cathar to call Micah a boy, but without the young suffix for kits. Reaching behind her, she pulled the hand ax she'd brought along and flipped it around to hold it by the head, offering him the handle. "Come on down, I'll help you get the head and butcher."

Zal Aditi Marcus Dinn The Scion Micah tol Powl Aramea Bel Naamino Zuukamano

 

[Naamino Zuukamano]

The girl rolled out of the way quickly, despite the agony she must be in, and the impact with hard stone jarred his own tired arm. He too made to roll and prop onto his side but the paralytic from the blades had wrought much havoc on his mobility. Leshanna was above him before he could attempt to fully rise, and she surprised him by hissing something almost apologetic as she made to finish the duel.

Naamino's eyes widened and he went to block on instinct, both their bodies shaking with the effort, but his mind was racing about what she'd just said. For what felt like an eternity, their gazes were glued together by desperate determination. Each of their spirits were clearly battering against the cage of their inexperience, their weakened bodies, and pushing against the heavy weight of expectation.

He paused only for half a second but in that time the zabrak recognized two things: it took a lot of bravery- or desperation -to divulge something so personal, and that his situation was not so dire as hers. The boy recognized he had ground to give and might yet benefit from that, whereas she was clearly fighting with every scrap of her very being to hold whatever ground she'd gained in her life.

"I yield," he intoned solemnly.

His sword remained aloft for a moment longer, like a subtle way for him to say that he could continue. But the boy relented, exhausted and agonized, his sword arm dropping away from them both to clatter against the stone. Naami massaged the shoulder of his affected arm, grimacing as he murmured something for her alone.

"Never did get your name, soldier."

Tag:
Spirit of Korriban​

 

[Gavin Vel]

Gavin’s eyes narrowed, a mix of surprise and irritation flickering across his face as his taunt was met only with a nod. He’d expected something more—a scowl, a retort, anything that would validate his presence and stoke the fire of competition. But instead, his opponent merely shielded his eyes from the sun, seemingly uncomfortable under the harsh light. Gavin barely had a moment to process his disappointment before his opponent launched forward in a quick, decisive charge.

Gavin cursed under his breath. Charging in was his move; he hadn’t expected his opponent to take the initiative. He was caught off guard by the man’s speed, realizing belatedly that the size difference alone should have clued him in. However, Gavin was standing ready, and he reacted in time, deflecting the first blow with a solid block. The clash of their weapons reverberated through his arms, but instead of just parrying, Gavin seized the moment to assert his strength.

With a forceful grin, he retaliated, swinging his weapon not just to deflect but to overpower. He aimed for his opponent’s blade with all his might, intending to knock him off balance and make him feel the sheer force behind his strike. The power of the blow radiated from his body, and Gavin’s laugh boomed across the field. “You’ll have to do better than that!” he taunted, the thrill of the fight beginning to take over.

Following his powerful parry, Gavin wasted no time. With a sweeping motion, he brought his blade down in a powerful arc aimed at his opponent’s left shoulder, intending to slash from shoulder blade to hip. It was a brutal strike, heavy with intent, meant to end the fight with a single, decisive blow if it connected.


Rayth

 

[Leshanna]

When Lesh felt her opponent’s blade strike against hers in a block, her heart sank. This was it.

She gritted her teeth against the agony, the bitter anger that rolled through her, and the sheer exhaustion that was clawing at her, trying to drag her back down to the ground. Her one good leg was shaking from weakness, and it took all of her will power to just stay standing. The girl locked eyes with the boy still on the ground before her, and waited for him to do something to finish her off. If she was going to be defeated, then she was going to be on her feet when it happened.

Leshanna stopped breathing for a moment when she heard him say that he was yielding, and she glared at him for a moment, sure this was some trick. But when his sword arm dropped back to the ground, the girl realized that he had been serious.

She had…won?

The girl couldn’t stand any longer, and she dropped back down to the ground beside the boy, rolling over onto her back to stare up into the sky above, breathing heavily as she tried to work through everything she felt.

She was so tired, and everything hurt.

He said something to her, pointing out that he had never gotten her name. He called her a soldier, and for some reason hearing that made her feel like she had worth, even though she hadn’t the faintest clue what a 'soldier' was.

“Leshanna.” She all but whispered, her voice echoing her exhaustion and pain. “It’s Naamino, right? You didn’t have to do that, you know. You had me at the end there. But…thank you.” the girl paused for a moment, a frown creasing her forehead before she looked back over at Naamino.

“...what’s a soldier?”

Naamino Zuukamano // Spirit of Korriban
​

 

[Darth Caedes]

​

Korriban​

Vardin, Palatial Capital of Korriban​

Spires of Kor'ethyr​

Tags— Zal Aditi | Madrona A’Mia | Diarch Reign | Lodd Grimmin | Kyraj | Revna | Akhuul Sautra | Elmindra Xitaar ​

​

"Ah... You do make a compelling case," Lodd agreed, satisfactorily.​

"Although, before we engage in productive dialogue on the matter of business agreements," he continued, "I would like to request a modest favor from your Majesty in exchange for my unwavering support. The N&Z Corporation has positioned itself as a self-proclaimed competitor to our organization and is gradually encroaching upon Sith Space. I kindly seek your assistance in the Sith Assembly to impose a wide-spread ban on their operations within your territories."​

Caedes inclined his head, considering Lodd Grimmin's request with a measured pause. The Neimoidian's words, though smoothly couched as a "modest favor," asked a great deal of Caedes; indeed the eradication of a rival's presence across a territory both resource rich and up-and-coming would no doubt skyrocket the Federations Outer Rim successes and even generously pad Lodd Grimmin's own purses, while yet granting the Horuset System a trusted ally in matters of expansion.

"I understand your concerns, Trade Monarch," he began, diplomatically.​

"While I do not speak for the Order in its entirety, the Imperial Assembly seldom disregards the voice of Korriban in its affairs, nor that of Admiral Elmindra Xitaar," he added, gesturing to the falleen whose icy gaze remained fixed on the Trade Monarch.​

​

"Our Empire's interests are best served when our alliances are strong," Caedes concurred, "and protected from the meddling of lesser rivals." ​

He nodded, as if to some internal dialogue.​

"Yes, I would be willing to ensure your Federation's position remains… unchallenged." ​

​

​

 

[Elmindra Xitaar]

Korriban | Vardin | Palatial Capital | Spires of Kor'ethyr

Darth Caedes | Diarch Reign | Lodd Grimmin | Akhuul Sautra | Kyraj | Naamino Zuukamano | Leshanna | Aliyah | Sssslik | Kai'lyn | Revna

Elmindra watched Darth Reign with a measured stare as he spoke his piece. It was quite transparent how he rankled at the assertiveness of her opening play. Good, she thought as he squared up and matched her tone. She could appreciate his demure introduction as a fellow politician, especially when seeking alliance in foreign territory, but she appreciated more the passion she found in his eyes as he made clear his opinions and intentions. However, as he expounded upon his affection for law and order, family and friendship, and his desire to achieve peace for the children, Elmindra had to suppress the urge to narrow her eyes. Although she found common ground with the core of the man’s ideals, some of his sentiments were dangerously close to that of the Jedi Order. She quelled the suspicion that rose with such a comparison. Men like Darth Reign made for steadfast and loyal allies, she knew, once they made up their mind and, despite her earlier posturing, Korriban did need allies.

She tilted her chin up at being called out so directly – she did in fact mistake his empathy for weakness, a product of her own culture – but an approving smirk graced her green lips as she appraised him, calculating her response. Before she could speak again though, she felt the presence of Darth Caedes even before she caught movement in the corner of her eye as he entered the conversation in earnest, apparently having found inspiration to address his guests directly instead of brood in his throne. His chastising glance as she met the molten cores of his eyes took Elmindra off guard. It was not often he exercised such power over her, especially in the midst of such a social spectacle, and she couldn’t help but wonder what he was thinking. As the King spoke though, she soon began to see why it was far more beneficial for Caedes to be the one to speak to such matters. His address to Darth Reign was moving indeed, and seemed to effectively find the middle ground between the ideals of the Diarchy and that of Korriban’s leadership.

His pivot into dealings with the neimoidian was smooth enough, though a bit too forthcoming for Elmindra’s taste. She would have preferred to hear what exactly the Trade Monarch had to offer before agreeing to his request. Grimmon’s modest favor of a territory-wide ban of his company’s competitor may indeed ensure a strong alliance with the Trade Federation but installing an uncontested monopoly in the system could have potentially catastrophic consequences for the economy. Her King’s pliability in such dealings could be criticized by traditionalists within the Sith regime as weak but Elmindra could not deny the disarming effect it had on those gathered around, vassals and confederates alike. The approach was made even more effective when she played the role of the scrutinizing and imperturbable gatekeeper of the kingdom’s coffers and wealth of resources.

Finally, she too stood and stepped up beside her King, further engrossing herself in the proceedings so that they were now all on the same level. Like the Diarch, she too clasped her hands behind her back, her full height bringing her eye to eye with the man. However, she chose to address the Trade Monarch now, content to give Caedes the space he apparently desired to engage Darth Reign himself.

“I admire your boldness in seeking such assurance from Korriban, Trade Monarch Grimmon, yet your proposal presupposes a great deal of trust on our part,” she began with no small amount of skepticism. “Korriban's strength has never stemmed from granting exclusivity without reason, nor from rushing into entanglements that may weaken our influence. The ban you ask would affect not just N&Z but the system’s economy and potentially our strategic ties.” She paused briefly before launching into her next assertion.

“While the King may see value in your proposal, I must ensure that any such alliance is worth our resources. Before considering this exclusion, I would know precisely what your Federation brings to the table, beyond merely curbing a rival. A partnership of this magnitude must yield more than just commercial profit. It must fortify Korriban's position in ways no one else could. Convince me that the Trade Federation is indispensable to the future we envision.”​

 

[Diarch Reign]

Darth Reign took note of the way the First Lord deferred at a look from the king. It was impressive, the respect that Darth Caedes commanded. He observed the king’s interaction with the trade monarch, with the huge “favor” the trade federation was asking.

That is a heavy ask, the trade federation must have confidence in what it can provide to ask this of the king. Reign thought to himself. He thought to the Diarchy’s current situation, there was much that needed to be done before he could hope to stand among these powers.

As the First Lord took over conversation with the Trade Monarch, Reign turned to the king. “I had hoped to get a chance to speak outside of the formal movements of court. I will be honest, my lord, I have heard rumor of your ideals, but it is a relief to see them first hand. I feel there is much we can offer each other. Thank you for the opportunity to stay longer as well.” he bowed his head deferentially, well aware of his standing both in the galaxy and here on Korriban.

The Diarch took a moment to watch the duels taking place. His eye drawn to the spectacle that was the two young ones. “Tell me, is there an acolyte here that has caught your eye? They all seem very promising”

Turning back to the king fully, he smiled at the Dark Lord “I sometimes tire of always speaking about items of State, don’t you? I want to know more about the MAN behind the crown. So a question, as I’m sure you go to a fair number of feasts, what is your favorite meal?”

Lodd Grimmin Darth Caedes Elmindra Xitaar Naamino Zuukamano Akhuul Sautra

 

[Lodd Grimmin]

Diarch Reign Darth Caedes @Others

A subtle smile emerged on the Neimoidian's face as the gamble had paid off much more seamlessly than anticipated, as King Darth Caedes demonstrated a rare willingness to embrace the Trade Federation's proposal, which sought to provide contested support for the Kingdom of Korriban in return for their vote in the assembly on Jutrand.

Such an arrangement would involve curtailing the influence and strength of the N&Z Corporation within the Sith Empire by implementing a comprehensive ban. The goal was to enhance his position within the region and the wider Galactic Economy by engaging in trade-offs with other corporations that preferred to avoid direct interactions with the Kingdom's financial advisors who might discover that certain financial transactions were adjusted to account for changing terms and conditions.

"We are delighted that you have graciously accepted our humble request, which alleviates our concerns regarding conducting legitimate business with the Kingdom of Korriban and the other Holy Worlds nearby." - He explained his while bowing his head slightly in a gesture of utmost respect. Every word spoken was carefully considered to ensure that the facade of a humble minister never once slipped from his features, although it had certainly gotten close when the First Lord Elmindra Xitaar seemed to catch on to the ploy the Trade Federation was doing and rightfully called him out for it.

The Trade Monarch had strategies at his disposal to avoid being cornered in a political debate; however, the most effective approach involved framing the circumstances in a manner that would undermine the First Lord's competence and instill doubt that they could be trusted to head the Kingdom's financial services.

"Surely the First Lord understands that in any business arrangement, one must have all the information before meeting a potential client. If you had thought that our resources were insufficent to support the Kingdom, you would have advised His Majesty to cancel our appointment and seek alternative corporations such as the Arceneau Trading Company. The fact that you did not do so, begs to question your own proposed expertise in the matters of finance and business." - Lodd responded in a diplomatic manner, devoid of any intent to offend the First Lord or undermine the trust placed in the King.

It is reasonable to assume that they possessed a fundamental understanding of standard business practices necessary for managing the Kingdom's financial and commercial relationships; otherwise, one could argue that the Kingdom was relying solely on lucky circumstances.

 

[Micah tol Powl]

Darth Caedes Zal Aditi Kivah The Scion Marcus Dinn

There seemed like there was blood flying from both the lioness and the tuk'ata.

But it was bleeding more. And had stopped moving. Plus, Kivah was on her feet. When she unslung the ax, that's when he knew.

She was fine.

Hoping down from the ledge, the boy nimbly made his way back to the ground. As he fell back to the red earth, the comment about helping him butcher the beast popped a question in his mind. One he gave voice to immediately. "What do you think tuk'ata tastes like?"

He supposed that they would find out.

Though, they also needed to complete the assignment. And lingering here could make them targets for students who thought that the Cathar pair would be easier to pick off that taking on a tuk'ata.

"It would probably be wise to get our trophies back before anyone can try to move on us," the boy mused aloud, already wary about what else could be lurking in the shadows.

This wasn't a hunt after all, it was a task. Being Cathar, it could be hard to keep those distinctions in mind.

 

[Akhuul Sautra]

Tags: Darth Caedes Elmindra Xitaar Diarch Reign Kyraj Revna Leshanna Naamino Zuukamano Sssslik Aliyah Kai'lyn Lodd Grimmin
Location: Spires of Kor'ethyr, Korriban
Equipment: In Bio
Objective: 2 - Making Ties with the Masters

Below this spire, the younger generations fought each other in trials clearly imitating the old traditions. The blood of the Sith flowed thinly in those veins below, if they flow at all. A sad fate, yet perhaps it would ensure the continuance of my people's legacy still. Culture lingers. Those were my words. The Mandalorian barbarians figured that out, and that society is as resilient as roaches. The Sith could do such things much better. This inspired a new path of calculations in my digital psyche. More theories entertained. More plans for the future to deal with boredom.

Up here, politics were all that was. That was apparent when the King of my home-world welcomed me to the discussion. With pristine posture, my steps would join this cluster forming. For me, this was for entertainment now. I have seen too many Empires of the Sith rise and fall to place much importance to politics. The mortal around me placed much in it. I could not blame them, as I was among the few in this crowd who has lasted several lifetimes. It was a luxury only I could afford.

The First Lord seemed to have been delegated to the Trade Federation dealings, as well as other matters. The Merchant "King", as this being called itself, postured superiority. Like the barbarians of Mandalore, the Trade Federation has proven to be like a roach of an organization. Truly, it is a strange phenomena as that such an organization could last so long. Mortals seemed to care much for currency.

I doubted how much Darth Caedes was willing to embrace my presence. However, his response to what could have been a challenge to his authority showed promise. Pride without hubris might let the Sith ways linger more. "I will watch your politics, King of Korriban.", I would say as the King stepped from the throne.

With the hand that was not holding my staff, a metal clawed finger scratched the chin of my death-mask like some mortal mannerism as I listened to what I looked at like a play. This was a play I could impact. Calculations spun as these mortals around me spoke. The figure that is Darth Reign spoke well. His ideas of the Sith "evolving" piqued curiosity. Personal ties seems to be his stance. Perhaps he might be right. Yet, his concern for legacy could possibly be useful.

I would let this continue. This play needs more exposition if I am to do much in its performance.

 

[Rayth]

“You’ll have to do better than that!” he taunted, the thrill of the fight beginning to take over.

Following his powerful parry, Gavin wasted no time. With a sweeping motion, he brought his blade down in a powerful arc aimed at his opponent’s left shoulder, intending to slash from shoulder blade to hip. It was a brutal strike, heavy with intent, meant to end the fight with a single, decisive blow if it connected.

Rayth bared his teeth as their blades clashed. The shock from the collision ran up to his shoulder. The blades - and the man he was attacking - carried a lot of weight and momentum.

He drew back, but the man stepped into the space between them. The off-white blade came swinging down. The air hissed in protest as the jagged blade cut through it.

Rayth was quick, but not quick enough. The tip cut through his robe above his pec. The slice of flesh stung, but he had suffered worse. Then came then pelko bug venom, like fire spreading from the wound.

He didn't back down. Instead of followed with a series of low thrusts. Some were pulled short in feints, others driving home to try and keep the large man on the defensive.

 

[Spirit of Korriban]

Sith Holy Worlds
Korriban
Kor'ethyr Dueling Pits
Tags— Naamino Zuukamano | Leshanna | Diarch Reign | Kyraj | Gavin Vel | Rayth

"I can't lose this fight," exclaimed Leshanna.​

"I'll be sold again."
"I yield," Naamino intoned solemnly.​

Darth Thaliax watched as the boy lowered his pelko sword, declaring his surrender with a sudden finality. His expression hardened from behind the obscuring mask, a rictus snarl full of broken, jagged teeth. His gaze landed on Leshanna, triumphant though shaken, a gleam of guarded satisfaction mingling with the residual pain of her injuries. In a display of sheer will, the girl had found her footing in an arena where brute strength often failed to cleverness and cunning. For that, Thaliax could not deny her a measure of acknowledgment. The clash had been brutal, unyielding, with both youths showing a remarkable resilience—Naamino's skill with a sword and Leshanna's raw tenacity had been clear for all to see. Yet, the match's end held no satisfaction for him.

"Never did get your name, soldier," asked Naamino, from where he'd collapsed to the ground.​

"Leshanna," she answered, panting down beside him.​

"It's Naamino, right?" she asked in return.​

"You had me at the end there."​

Deciding he'd allowed the moment to linger on long enough, Thaliax raised a torn-gloved hand.

"Enough," he commanded, his voice deep, wet, and robotic.​

He stepped forward, tattered cloaks trailing behind him as he brushed past the stoic ring of Jen'koshû proctors, fixing his gaze first on Naamino, and then on Leshanna.

"You," he began, vocalizer rasping with labored breathing.​

"You fight well. Yet, despite your... ferocity... you did not defeat Acolyte Naamino in combat. You defeated him in his mind."​

Thaliax seemed to consider this, hand falling back to his side.

"A fine strategy, though fickle, and reliant upon a pliable adversary. With time... your skill with a sword will be honed. In the meantime, you may prove to have a talent for the battlefield beyond mere blades."​

Finally, Thaliax turned to face Naamino, stepping such that he blotted out the sun and cast his shadow over the boy at his feet. His eyes bore into the Acolyte, barely visible from behind the cloudy mask.

"You have talent. Skill with the blade, a natural instinct, it fits well in your hand. Yet you squander that potential on sentimentality."​

With a flick of his wrist, Thaliax gripped the students' swords in threads of the Force and yanked them both to his open palm.

"Your strength is hollow whilst your resolve can be blunted with but a word," he condemned.​

"Do you believe yourself noble for this concession, Zuukamano?"​

He did not await an answer. The young Iridonian's potential was undeniable; yet potential, if left unchecked by discipline, was worthless.

"Empathy, in its fragility... compassion, even in loyalty to our Order... these are the crutch of the Jedi. Chains which bind with links unseen until they catch and snag. Today... you let your emotions betray your strength in the present moment. Master your mind, Acolyte, or it will master you."​

With that, and after one last long, appraising glare, Thaliax turned on his heel, cloaks kicking up to swirl around him, and departed—eyes already fixed on the next pair of dueling students. ​

 

[Darth Caedes]

​

Korriban​

Vardin, Palatial Capital of Korriban​

Spires of Kor'ethyr​

Tags— Zal Aditi | Madrona A’Mia | Diarch Reign | Lodd Grimmin | Kyraj | Revna | Akhuul Sautra | Elmindra Xitaar ​

​

"I will watch your politics," Cryptis said, affecting an air of mystery.​

"King of Korriban."​

Caedes smiled. Not a warm expression, merely the upward curling of his lips. Good enough, he thought to himself, satisfied. As he had walked past the mechanical Lord on his descent from the Throne, a gentle sweeping of his arm gave to Cryptis an invitation—that he may indeed watch the King's counsel, if such was his desire.

"We are delighted that you have graciously accepted our humble request," expressed the Trade Monarch, acting his part with the polish of practice.​

"Which alleviates our concerns," he furthermore agreed, ostentatiously enthusiastic for a future in business with the Holy Worlds.​

Inclining his head, Caedes both accepted the Trade Monarch's overtures and gained just the right angle to lay a cool gaze upon Elmindra. They had long ago learned to trust the other's intuition. He had no doubt that she would see the design in his words.

"Trade Monarch," he said in parting, straightening and with an air of congenial finality.​

"First Lord," he concluded, taking her hand and bringing it to his lips.​

That finished, and with a guiding motion, catching Reign with one hand, he indicated a path of departure from their present company; one which took them along the balcony's outskirts.

"Lord Reign," he suggested, easily.​

"Accompany me?"​

Taking his answer for granted, Caedes led the pair away from Lodd and Elmindra, stepping through a crowd which parted itself before their King.

"I had hoped to get a chance to speak outside of the formal movements of court," Reign admitted, humility making him demure.​

Caedes nodded, a lick of wry humor in his expression.

"And what then would we speak of, prey tell."​

"I will be honest," Reign said.​

"Please," encouraged Caedes.​

"My Lord, I have heard rumor of your ideals, but it is a relief to see them first hand. I feel there is much we can offer each other." ​

That remained to be seen, but Caedes acquiesced all the same, nodding politely. Like this they came to the balcony's edge, the King leaning to watch Thaliax and the duelists below.

"That pleases me to hear, Lord Reign," he said, formality draining from his demeanor.​

"I'm inclined to feel similarly. In truth, I too grow weary of combating our Order's division; of the politics and their rules of decorum. Lately, I find that my interests dwell firmly in the realm of creation and legacy," he explained.​

"I am every day reminded that my existence here is temporary. Oh it may stretch on for many mortal lifetimes, yet. But I think to the future, and wonder what kind of galaxy I will leave behind for others to inherit." ​

The King hesitated, his gaze momentarily transfixed on Kor'ethyr's students below.

"Tell me," Reign said into his thoughts, breaking Caedes from reverie.​

"Is there an acolyte here that has caught your eye? They all seem very promising."​

"Perhaps," Caedes agreed, vaguely.​

"But they are each of them put through rigorous testing, and will receive the finest training available to our Order," he confirmed.​

Presently, two students lay side-by-side in the dueling pits, collapsed nearby to one another, their chests heaving. The vision stirred at something within Caedes, a pain which tugged at his chest. Distant memories disturbed like silt at the river's bottom.

"Why do you ask?" he probed, gaze distracted.​

"I sometimes tire of always speaking about items of State," Reign confided, "don't you?"​

Caedes nodded.

"I want to know more about the MAN behind the crown. So a question, as I'm sure you go to a fair number of feasts, what is your favorite meal?"​

Caedes blinked. As if on queue, a linen wrapped Jen'ari glided past, carrying neatly arranged delicacies upon a thin, silver tray. Casually, he selected one of the offerings—a skewered, though very much alive, arthropod; undulating legs left clutching at a pearl-like trove of its own eggs. Juices from peppers and spicy salt brines caused the creature to twist and pull, burning the coiled invertebrate's chitinous exterior.

"I've always felt the most sated by foods still able to fight back," he philosophized.​

"Were I to become a meal, I would hope for that same mercy."​

Grimly amused, he turned and offered the skewer to Reign.

"Myriapod," Caedes explained.​

"A delicacy to be found only on Korriban. Encountered in the desert, it is said that their venom can kill a man within the span of ten paces. Like this, though," he relented, "they're mostly harmless. And," he added, "they're spicy."​

​

​

 

[Kivah]

"It's probably pretty tough." Kivah admitted to Micah as he asked her what Tuk'ata tasted like. She handed him the ax so he could get the head off the one he killed, as she looked over its body, battered and crushed by rocks. Blood was drying in a trail from its nostrils, a sign of a punctured lung maybe. She thought about retrieving her arrows, but the shafts were probably snapped from the same rock slide. "Neat trick with the rocks. You use the Force?" Besides, the creature had broken her bow.

Swearing under her breath as she remembered, Kivah cast about for the discarded weapon. Seeing it laying in the dusty valley floor where she'd thrown it aside for her knives, she snatched it up. Carefully she unstrung it, wincing at every creak and crack sound as it flexed back into its resting position. There. She wrapped the string around the grip and tucked the end away. Once they were back it could be stowed away in the Reaper until she decided what to do with it.

She checked the valley walls and the top of the cliffside as well as the path while she waited for Micah to finish his messy work. Her tail was relaxed and unbothered and soon she was too. Seemed like the noise and battle cries of two Tuk'ata rendered most other creatures scarce. And if another student thought it was easier to attack them than what they were sent to hunt, they'd either rethought that or were waiting back up the trail to her thinking. More likely to find someone to jump after the scattered paths converged. "You got it or need a hand over there?" She asked Micah as she checked on his progress.
Micah tol Powl

 

[Diarch Reign]

​

Location: Spires of Kor’ethyr
Tags: Darth Caedes Elmindra Xitaar Lodd Grimmin

---

Reign listened to the king as he spoke,
"Were I to become a meal, I would hope for that same mercy."
The Diarch was taken somewhat off guard by that, but he thought to himself that he shouldn’t be surprised. The King was after all a King among Sith.

He chuckled lightly Reign said “I suppose that is only fair, I too would appreciate the opportunity to fight for my survival. That is the way of things though”

Reign looked at the skewer that was offered “They’re Spicy” the king had said.

The Diarch beamed at the King, “My Dear Friend, spicy is my favorite!”

Taking the skewer, he bit into the morsel. Almost immediately his tongue felt as though it was on fire. He loved every second of it!

“I’m partial to food a bit meatier myself. Do we happen to have any here as well?”
he looked around quickly. His excitement at the one on one time with king slipping through his carefully crafted demeanor.

 

[Gavin Vel]

Gavin’s blade struck true, carving a shallow line across Rayth’s pec and he erupted into a triumphant laugh. The sight of his opponent wincing in pain only fed his already swelling ego. “Just give up and save yourself the embarrassment!” he taunted, his voice brimming with overconfidence as he pressed forward.

But Rayth wasn’t so easily beaten. He quickly recovered, launching a series of swift, calculated strikes. Gavin’s grin faltered as he was forced to retreat, his blade moving defensively to parry the rapid thrusts. Each attack came faster than the last, forcing him to focus more than he liked. Even so, the bloodlust still simmered beneath his efforts, driving him to meet every blow with equal ferocity.

Then one of Rayth’s thrusts slipped past his guard, striking him square on the hip. Gavin’s breath hitched as a jolt of pain surged through his body. The pelko bugs embedded in their training blades released their venom, sending a searing, electrifying agony through his leg. He staggered, grunting in pain, his stance momentarily faltering.

This time, his yell wasn’t one of triumph but a guttural cry of pain and raw determination. The venom coursing through him only served to ignite his fury further. His vision narrowed, his mind consumed by the burning rage that now fueled every move.

With a monstrous howl, Gavin thrust his free hand forward, channeling his anger into a powerful Force Push. The blast wasn’t precise, but its raw intensity was undeniable, attempting to give himself some space against the much quicker opponent.

He surged forward after his force push, ignoring the pain in his leg, his blade raised high above his head. Every ounce of his strength and fury was poured into the downward strike as he brought the weapon down with devastating force, aiming to end the fight in one decisive blow. His battle cry echoed through the arena, a testament to his unyielding determination and the sheer power of his will to dominate.

Rayth

 

[Elmindra Xitaar]

Korriban | Vardin | Palatial Capital | Spires of Kor'ethyr

Darth Caedes | Diarch Reign | Lodd Grimmin | Akhuul Sautra | Kyraj | Naamino Zuukamano | Leshanna | Aliyah | Sssslik | Kai'lyn | Revna

Elmindra eyed the neimoidian coolly as he delivered his underhanded insult, her reptilian eyes narrowing ever-so-slightly as she barely suppressed a scowl. That he would dare imply she had not come prepared for their meeting chafed at her pride. Fortunately though, her attention was pulled to her King as he addressed them both and prepared for his escape. She offered her hand summarily, an unspoken acceptance of his leave, and her features softened into a small smile as she watched him gravitate toward the Diarch. Her eyes found the Trade Monarch before she turned her head to face him once again.

“You have temerity, Trade Monarch, I’ll give you that,” she acknowledged, her tone icy yet weighted with a begrudging appreciation. “But you misunderstand. It is because I have determined the Trade Federation’s resources may prove sufficient that you are granted the consideration of my time. As I’m sure you would agree, even the most favorable recommendations require scrutiny, particularly where the Kingdom’s future is concerned.”

Her body language shifted subtly, hands now exposed in a show of openness and gesturing to the balcony he’d found earlier so that they might find a bit more privacy in their dealings. She moved closer to the neimoidian in order to walk beside him and toward the indicated balcony, her pheromones hung in the air around them like a subtle perfume.

“As someone who understands the importance of due diligence, you likely already know what Korriban seeks in such a business arrangement. My familiarity with your company’s reputation and product does not tell me what exactly you are prepared to offer Korriban. Only you can do that.”

She took a moment to peer out over the pits and assess the results of the duels, catching the tail end of Darth Thaliax’s lecturing to the two young acolytes who had appeared to have exhausted themselves, then turned to face Lodd Grimmon once again.

“So tell me, Mr. Grimmon, how exactly the Trade Federation intends to make our partnership worthy of such exclusivity. And know that I will be weighing your offer against your modest request of banning your competitor.”

She was prepared to negotiate scrupulously with the Trade Monarch, but with the ultimate intention of coming to terms and establishing an alliance that felt favorable to both parties. Her primary focus was to discuss what the Trade Federation was prepared to offer in terms of exclusive contracts for naval weaponry, fighters, warships, specifically products beyond what is offered on the open market.​

 

[Micah tol Powl]

Darth Caedes Zal Aditi Kivah The Scion Marcus Dinn

The boy looked at the offered ax handle.

This was going to be laborious and dirty, wasn't it?

"Yes. Or, I think so," the boy answered, as he accepted the offered weapon. It had a heavier weight than he was expecting. He was totally going to chip a claw on this, wasn't he? "It's really more frustrating than it ought to be."

Was he referring to the Force? Or taking the head off this tuk'ata?

Probably both.

While the lioness went to check their surroundings, the boy got to it. Heaving the ax up over his head, the boy prepared to...

...fall over backwards. "Mrreow!"

Hopping back up to his feet, the kit clutched onto the ax with both hands as he anxiously snapped his head to either side. Nobody saw that, right?

He hacked away at it. Then hacked some more. Then continued hacking.

"You got it or need a hand over there?"

Breathless and covered in blood, the young kid seemed ready to collapse. "No... no, I'm good," the boy offered, offering the ax back to her.

Much labor. Many dirty.

He was just ready to get this trial over with.

 

[Darth Caedes]

​

Korriban​

Vardin, Palatial Capital of Korriban​

Spires of Kor'ethyr​

Tags— Zal Aditi | Madrona A’Mia | Diarch Reign | Lodd Grimmin | Kyraj | Revna | Akhuul Sautra | Elmindra Xitaar ​

​

Caedes let out a short, knowing laugh as he watched Reign wrestle with the fiery taste of myriapod, his lips quirking slightly. Belatedly, he realized it'd be years since last mirth had prompted such a reaction from him; almost, he'd forgotten the sound of his own laughter.

"Only the brave eat from Korriban's bounty," he remarked, diplomatically, as Reign powered through the spicy hors d'oeuvre.​

With a subtle gesture and mental call to one of the Jen'ari attendants waiting nearby, Caedes ordered a platter of roasted meat be brought over, indicating a private seating area where the two could convene for their meal—bantha ribs from the Outer Rim spice triangle, thick cuts still sizzling with tangy juices and encrusted with whole-herb seasonings.

"Something more in line with your tastes," he remarked, a glimmer of amusement in his gaze.​

"Come, Lord Diarch. I would have words with you—away from prying eyes."​

​

​

[Exit]​

 

[Diarch Reign]

​

Location: Korriban | Kor'ethyr Spires
Tags: Darth Caedes

---

The Diarch eyed the Bantha Ribs, as the King had said, they were much more in line with his tastes.
He followed at the Kings command, knowing that the true talks were about to begin.

"Of course, Your Highness. There is much for us to discuss, and it would be best done where a wandering eye, or listening ear may not find us."



{EXIT}