Salt and Souls | CIS Dominion of Crait Hex

[Kathryn Foster]

Location: Crystalline Cavern, Crait​

Objective: Explore the Cavern​

Wearing: Desert camoflage BDUs, gear vest, utility belt and military boots. Sand backpack.​

Gear: BAW-88 blaster carbine, LBP-3 light blaster, vibroblade, GLiS Emergency Medpac​

Tags: [member="Alden Akaran"], [member="Faye Malvern"]​

Spoiler

[youtube]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BKShhdIF6QM[/youtube]

She had two places she thrived in, one was in the cockpit and the other one were on the ground of remote and unexplored planets. When the word had spread about the long forgotten planet of Crait after its rediscovery, with its vast salt plains and complex cave structures, she were didn't need any second thoughts to sign up to the force that were being dispatched there. Studious as she was, Kath had done her homework on what information she could find about the planet in holobooks and data-tapes. It was not much, its whole location had fallen off the star charts, yet some information could be found when its name once more were spoken in the galaxy.

Knelt down, a stones throw away from Akaran who she had accompanied to the cavern, something had immediately got her attention. The vulptex's blue eyes glowed slightly from the light seeping through a crack in the roof and danced off the crystals. With the blaster carbine hidden on her back and with slow movements, she acted as friendly as she could and offered the vulpine a hand to pick up her scent at. Naturally, it was reserved but seemed to share the same curiousness as the human who were now trying to acquaint herself with it.

''Hey there, buddy... I'm not gonna hurt you. You're a curious one, aren't you?'' she said with a low friendly voice. The vulpine creature ever so slowly reached forth with its nose and carefully sniffed her hand. She thought of trying giving it a treat, but she found that the risk of making it sick with something unfit for its stomach were too great. From what she could see, and comparing it to other canine creatures she had studied, it looked healthy enough for not needing that snack.

 

[Vytal Noctura]

​

Location: Crait Landing Zone
Objective: Locate, Identify, and Pacify Hostile Spirits

Vytal was satisfied with everyone's work to prepare to venture out into Crait's 'haunted' caverns. Her attention was brought to bear on a woman that approached and declared herself in true military fashion. The woman whom the Nightsister hadn't the pleasure of meeting before soon produced a bag of Vita Stones, and made offer of them. "Executor Lechner," despite the fierce belief in magick, Vytal was not above accepting others of the Knights among their number. "Vita Stones," the pale woman remarked before her eyes lifted to those of Alwine. "These could be useful, but do you possess enough for the entire landing area? Their effect does not extend too far, but they are effective. If you do not, we can pass them out among those that venture into the wilds. We would not need to spend energy warding ourselves from possession." Those that would remain behind could share the burden of the casting and recover from the ordeal. "Thank you for coming forward."

A loud cry of elation drew the Dathomiri woman's eyes for just a second. Ah, yes, their little haunt. Seemed Pom had made a new friend. Perhaps all of that youthful energy would be put to use them. How a child managed to find its way into a spiritual battlefield, however, was a subject the Knights Obsidian -- perhaps the entire Confederacy -- would hear of upon their return. Nightsisters sent their young -- usually adolescent -- to hunt wild beasts this was true. It was dangerous, this was also true. They were also trained by seasoned hunters and taught everything they needed to know to survive on Dathomir. Only far, far later where they introduced to spiritual combat, however. You might as well compare fighting with a twig with that of a Star Destroyer as the difference between hunting wildlife and consorting with spirits.

With a soft snort of accepting Pom had the child in hand, however, Vytal turned back to Alwine. "I think it's time we begin. Executor, I hope I don't offend you for asking, does your position often command soldiers?" Vytal began moving toward the front of the landing area as she spoke. It would be beneficial if someone capable were found to oversee their armed escort. Needing to orchestrate both the guards and the magick or Force users might divide her attention too far, especially should the ghosts turn out to be more than mere rumor.

"Everyone, form up." Vytal waved to give roaming eyes a place to focus. "Those not trained in offensive and defensive magick or Force usage stay to the center of the group. You will keep your senses open to detect the threats around us, and remain in contact with our base. You should all have a copy of the briefing, but if you have questions ask your superiors; they will pass along anything not already provided." The Nightsister stepped up onto one of the vehicles that would transport them to the site of the most reported encounters. She turned to face the assembled group once more. "We will investigate the reports, and if we find any threat that would prevent the Confederacy from laying claim to this world we will contain, destroy, or reach an accord with it. Remain alert, and stay safe. To your places."

Safety was not a natural warning a Nightsister would give in briefing her Sisters, but the offworlders liked emphasizing it. If this was their way, so be it. Better they all return alive and unharmed.

Tag: [member="Pom Stych Tivé"] | [member="Alwine Lechner"] | [member="Xobos Yakieer"] | [member="Zak Dymo"] | Mandragora | Knights Obsidian | Open​

 

[Kirk Tektus]

​

[member="Kurenai Yumi"] [member="Aisha"] [member="Damien Van-Derveld"]​

​

"Yeah, we'll reboot systems and see what we have to work with. I'll keep you all updated, be seeing you all." With that Kirk left the group and walked back in the base where the droids were attempting to reboot the main systems in the control room. The droids had everything done much to Kirk's satisfaction, he overlooked the main terminal, it had access to the basic components. Kept track of the internal systems and outer systems, most of which were not working. So far the only thing that was really working was the temperature control, water, and power. Kirk looked over the schematics and noticed that the central thermostat and the water storage were in the same room. "Sergeant, take your men and follow me me." Kirk signaled to one of the droids.

"Roger roger."

Kirk and the droids walked to the right of the control room and saw a junction, one path leading straight and the other reaching left. His datapad indicating the systems he was looking for were straight ahead. This hall looked like it was made for custodial and maintenance purposes so it looked like they were heading in the right direction. This was a very interesting layout for sure, systems like these were usually kept at the bottom but I guess for efficiency they were kept close. Kirk lead the droids to a door that had was before the thermostat and water storage. Kirk sliced the door open with no effort and walked in. The room was lit very well and the sound of bubbling and machinery filled the room. The water storage had a purification component that flushed out any toxins or sediments, judging by the design of the thermostat, it looked like it could be controlled at the unit itself and the terminal back at the control room. Everything seemed to be running perfectly, so Kirk turned down the temperature to be a bit more cooler and returned to the control room.

When he retuned to the control room he looked over the systems and noticed that the toughest part of bringing this base back up to speed would have to be restoring the base's planetary communications and surveillance systems and the data processing center. He retuned to Kurenai who seemed to have a better grasp of the technological situation.

"So I have good news and bad news. Good news is we have clean water and air conditioning. The bad news, the communications and surveillance systems are down entirely and we can't restore them. Most likely out of power and damaged thanks to the debris. We also need to install our software to get a proper data processing system running and we doubt t'll be compatible with the current systems in place."

 

[Damien Van-Derveld]

​

w. [member="Aisha"] | [member="Kurenai Yumi"] | [member="Asher Malvern"] | [member="Kirk Tektus"]​

​

Maybe there was no reason to send the officer away so soon, but it was clear from where Damien was standing the nightsister had not wanted to be bothered by reports. Perhaps he read too much into it, but when one was relaxing it usually meant they meant to not be bothered with work. Damien found it odd the office felt the need to report to a witch. Technology was not something they knew much of on Dathomir. Nature and the forest was their realm. He found himself nodding toward the nightsister in compliance to her words. Despite the fact he had been told by his grandmother she was some dark side savior, Damien still knew any nightsister could tell him what to do and he would obey. What choice did he have?

Again he said nothing as he was asked if they could benefit from the man's repost. Damien fell quiet as he came alongside the nightsister. It was odd to be taller in stature, physically stronger, and yet submitted to the opposite sex. Their power was different, more subtle, and yet just as effective. Besides, Damien was curious about this one. How did a nightsister of Dathomir find herself among the witches of the Confederacy.

Damien would remain quiet until the others left, regarding each one with only a nod. While the others worked on the technical aspects of machinery the two understood nothing about, Damien could have his curiosity satisfied. Each departed at their own pace, but seemingly one after the other. The nightbrother finally let out a sigh as he turned to face the raven haired witch ([member="Aisha"]) who now remained.

"A nightsister of Dathomir so far from home? It has been too long since I have seen one of ours among the Confederacy. How did you come to be part of," Damien's hand circled about, "this?"

His wolf was as curious, the beast wondering how he was not alone and only just discovering it.

 

[Holt]

​

Tags: [member="Nyx N1X3"] [member="Kelsie Sylvan"] [member="Daxton Bane"]​

​

Holt was no stranger to ancient artifacts. In his classified days before the Confederacy, Holt had been the procurer of many a dangerous item or ancient scroll; it brought in loads of credits from willing contractors, and Holt wasn't afraid of ghost tales or children's fables, meaning that the old 'curses' that had been inscribed in tombs or catacombs surrounding an object did little more than provide some form of intrigue. That being said, this new piece of information that the Rookery had been informed of was especially noteworthy; the chance to find and revive and ancient, yet famous model of warship appealed to both Holt's adventurous and scholarly minds. Many a tale was told of the Starhawk-class battlecruiser, a ship with tractor-beams of such power that they were able to drag a Super Star Destroyer down onto a planet's surface. Holt was no military man, nor did he pretend to be one, but even he could sense what advantage that sort of weapon would give.

That being said, Holt had come prepared, as always. He wore a new piece of armor under his dark grey civilian clothes, and his signature black trenchcoat over that. Even when inconspicuous, Holt dressed as if he were a Rook, a monochrome of blacks and greys. The armor had just been freshly made, a new model that he had designed in the laboratory of the Rookery; something that was ultralight, slim-fitting, and able to be worn inconspicuously under any sort of clothing. It was protective against most commonly found weapons, including vibroblades and electric-based weaponry. The only part of the armor that stood out were the hands, but that was easily solved by a pair of nerf-leather work gloves, again dyed black.

The division sent out from the Ministry of Secrets had been small, more to Holt's liking; himself, the Rook droid [member="Nyx N1X3"] who he had worked with on the Ichtor VIII operation, and the Crow [member="Kelsie Sylvan"] whom he had yet to interact with, but her reputation and resume highlighted her for this sort of job. The group had arrived on a nondistinct shuttle, an old YT model that served to blend in with the literal graveyard of ships who's captains had landed and never returned. Truth to be told, there was something about the dissapearances that put Holt off ease, but comm chatter let him know that a separate Confederacy task group was taking care of that, which made it none of his concern. Their task at hand was simple enough; find, decrypt, and download the schematics to the Starhawk-class battlecruiser, and return to the Rookery with said schematics. Simple enough; what could go wrong?

 

[Alwine Daye]

Wearing: Obsidian type Strike Armor | "Executor" Boots Exclusive
Wielding: Obsidian Knight Sword | WindWhisper | Pouch of Vita Stones
Tags: [member="Vytal Noctura"] [member="Zak Dymo"] [member="Pom Stych Tivé"] [member="Xobos Yakieer"] | + Feel free to join


So much empty space that can be toyed with right here!

Alwine's mouth moved into a small smiles as one of the Witches recognized the stones for what they were. It made her wonder whether the stones were merely more popular than she had believed up until now, or the one who had made the stones was a common acquaintance. "They can be-" she began to say, when the screaming was heard.

Her own eyes moved to the sound from whence the screaming had come as well, her words silenced, but unlike Vytal, she knew the Confederacy well enough by now to mind the aspect of children not. The Confederacy sported children responsible for the lives of entire planets, let them decree on orbital bombardments, and let them choose to do pretty much anything they wanted to. While they loved to mock the Mandalorians for having utterly no civilians and counting children as soldiers, Alwine did not quite see a different aspect on that front. She did not support it. But she knew when to keep silent on a subject. Her role as an Executor meant that as long as she remained in it, she was a blade, not a mouth.

Alwine sighed. Nothing was ever as simple as it ought to have been.

"It does not," came her honest answer, "I am but a squire. But if you require additional manpower, I can send a request in, though I cannot guarantee a timeframe in which we would receive a response."

Following the taller witch, Alwine wished she could have given the woman another answer. A better one. But in her year and a half with the Confederacy, she had not once commanded others, but had always been commanded instead. Her choice in even what sort of missions or who she would be working with was extremely limited. It mattered not that she was certain she could have made better choices than those stationed above her. She was a mere Squire; she was there to fulfill a role and not step an inch beyond that.

Joining her into the vehicle, Alwine merely nodded. She was trained with the Force, but when it came to spirits, she was not advanced in any manner. A hand went into her pocket, clutching a single vita stone. Her safety. If things went beyond control, a way to save herself from the ghosts, and whoever else she could pull closely from a short radius. It was better than nothing.

"What is it you are planning on doing, Mandragora?" Alwine asked, realizing that she did not know the name of this woman, or any of the other Mandragora currently presiding within the Confederacy, but one, "will you be performing a mass exorcism? Are the rest of us meant to keep you safe as you do so?"

 

[Xobos Yakieer]

Objective: Restless souls – Find the source of the spirits
Equipment: Lightsaber, Faceless Armor
Mental State: Restless
Tags: [member="Vytal Noctura"], [member="Pom Stych Tivé"], [member="Alwine Lechner"], and [member="Zak Dymo"]
Post: #2

​

As the woman, whom most obviously held the most experience of the entire group on how to deal with these spirits, called everyone over, xobos was one of the last to end up joining with the group. Everyone else seemingly had a space in the group, a purpose. Well, except for the child maybe. For the life of her, the Miraluka couldn’t think of a reason they would let a child come on this mission, especially not one that would run around in a makeshift ghost costume. “Have to admit…he’s slightly adorable.” Ora murmured in her head, causing the apprentice to roll her eyes in exasperation.

Regardless, everyone else seemed to have a point on this missions. Xobos, admittedly, didn’t know if she really fit. She had a rudimentary knowledge of the force, but nothing related to the spirits. Her skill with the blade was advanced for her level of training, but this place didn’t exactly look like it would hold enemies of the kind that could be killed with a lightsaber. For this point, she stayed near the back of the group that had gathered for the briefing, allowing those more important or useful than her ask the questions. Instead, she sat back, observed and listened for any relevant information that could help her.

As the group all loaded onto the vehicle, xobos made sure to sit in the back, watching as the knight obsidian lady climbed in front along with the pale skinned one. They seemed like a good enough pair, and whatever this talk of stones was beyond the Miraluka. Her focus turned to the outside of the vehicle, ready to attempt pass time as they went to the main sight of all the supposed activity. Soon, they would be getting into the hard stuff, and maybe then Xobos could be of some use.

 

[Kyyrk]

OBJECTIVE: Find the source of the spirits, if possible. Primary Objective overrides in the event of conflict.​

WIELDING: Set of the Pilgrim (A, B, C, D, & E), NanoVest, Voph's Pendant, Tears of Eshan​

NEARBY: [member="Vytal Noctura"] || [member="Xobos Yakieer"] || [member="Alwine Lechner"] || [member="Zak Dymo"] || [member="Pom Stych Tivé"]​

​

Voph stood near the group that was preparing to venture forth and discover the source of Crait's... problems. His white hair was pulled into a tight pony tail, but that didn't prevent loose strands from blowing in the wind. Voph wasn't entirely convinced it was natural, either. But, that's what they were there to find out. Well. The Mandagora were there to get to the bottom of it. Voph was here for another reason entirely. He was owed answers. So naturally, when his help was sought, Voph was happy to lend his assistance.

Now that he was here, however, he was beginning to wonder. Was bringing a child with them...wise? Voph turned, looking to the newcomer, [member="Vytal Noctura"]. She seemed to be taking charge of this whole operation. She knew what she was doing, and for that she had Voph's respect. Voph honestly couldn't remember the last time he'd been sent on a mission like this. Darth Voph of the Sphere of Mysteries he might have been, but Wars had a way of commanding one's attention. Particularly when they threatened the very fabric of civilization, much less one's nation.

Voph removed something from a pouch at his waist, and muttered an incantation under his breath. He felt the darkness swirling around him as the holocron in his palm flickered to life. He muttered a quiet command to the Holocron. "Record everything. Anything related to that question, keep." Voph turned to look out in the direction they intended to march. "Our presence has drawn attention." He spoke louder, but only loud enough that those close to him might hear. Pom Stych, Lechner, and Noctura, specifically. He didn't want to alarm the others. "Nothing obvious yet, but I can feel something amiss. I am sure I'm not alone in this feeling..."

 

[Daxton Bane]

Mission: Vital Figures

When searching for things lost for millienia, one never took anything for granted, this was doubly true for a control freak like Daxton Bane. Yet this mission required a scalpel rather than usual sledgehammer tactics he loved to use, so he had foregone the usual regalia he carried planetside. No heavy repeating lascarbine, no cyro throwers or dropships filled with shock troopers. Just a single non descript shuttle of old Imperial design, made its way planetside to land near a series of caves where telemetry said was the most promising readings.

Exiting the shuttle, Daxton was followed by his protocol droid B0B0, the floating head recording everything for his records later. Strapped across his chest was an equipment bandolier, rope, handheld sonar, low light gear, a pick ax, a few brushes, and his decryption kit. All he needed to do was locate an access panel, hook up and start downloading all the files he could. He had a team of top notch scientists and engineers who could reverse engineer whatever he could find.

The cavern entrance was covered in rubble, whether due to a natural occurance or a man made event it was unclear, all it did was present him with a challenge that he easily overcame by gesturing with a hand and using Force Telekinisis to clear the entrance for him. Once it was wide enough, he shored up the sides before stepping into the darkness. Reaching out with the Force he sought to sense the vibrations that would bring him closer to that which he sought.

 

[Kelsie Sylvan]

​

"You guys can go now, if you want," she said as she set the YT-1300 down. It was weird, landing her Razor in this particular junkyard -- she'd order the drones to keep it safe, but the fact that her work of art had to sit among the long dead ruined vessels around here was rather sad. She could always just cloak it, anyways. "The CDF probably needs to be watched to make sure they don't screw up the power. I'll handle the slicing and whatnot, with Missy it'll be a breeze."

Kelsie would rather work alone. Sure, Ministry operatives were more than qualified for random assignments like this, but she didn't trust the two agents she'd been put with today. This Holt character, well, she knew basically nothing about, and Nyx N1X3 was... a droid. Sure, she'd talked to the thing once, but that had been a while ago, and she still wasn't a fan of droids. She didn't want anyone else stealing the schematics, so the fewer people around the better.

Droids were useful for a few things, though. As the young woman slipped out of the cockpit she pointed to the door of the cargo hold. "Get the transmitter, little extendable pole bit. And a few extra power cells if we gotta power the old stuff," she ordered the droid. Kelsie didn't miss a step, heading over to the exit ramp that had begun to lower as soon as she'd left her seat in the cockpit. The sun beat down on the salt flats, but Kelsie's glasses shaded her eyes as she scanned her surroundings for a moment. Then, without wasting another moment, she set out to their plotted route to the cave.

<<"Miss Sylvan, I believe you should be more polite.">>

"Whatever," she muttered. Darn Missy, trying to get her to be nice.

[member="Holt"] [member="Nyx N1X3"]

 

[Faye Malvern]

Location: Crystilline Cave, Crait ​

Objective: Explore the Caverns​

[member=Alden Akaran] | [member=Kathryn Foster]​

Crait was the most unassuming planet Faye had ever laid eyes on. The surface crusted over in a white salt that gave her the impression of arctic tundras. It may as well have been, for little was able to survive on the surface. As they approached the caves to land Faye could make out nothing but a sea of white, all the way up to the horizon and likely beyond. Despite the lack of life here it had been subject to much history. Faye had done her best to read up on it all before arriving even though her visit wasn’t an official one.

Luckily, they weren’t going to be spending much time on the surface. Faye had amused herself greatly by comparing the salt-strewn surface to a cabbage. They were often bland and boring on the outside, holding no claim to anything remotely appealing. It’s when you look inside that you find the beauty of mother nature. The beautifully complex patterns she takes the time to create in the centre of it all. Crait was much the same. The caves it boasted underneath the bland and boring surface was where the true charm of Crait lay hidden.

The trio worked their way through a dark, narrow tunnel. It was the last little bit of plain Faye would have to endure before it broke away into a cavernous opening. With high ceilings and decorated wall to floor in crystals that shimmered every colour Faye could think of.

Bright flashes of vibrant light danced across her sun kissed skin. Faye beamed almost as brightly as them, reaching a hand out in an attempt to catch them. When they slipped between her fingers she instead settled on trying to map their complicated glimmers. ‘I don’t think I’ve ever seen anything like this before.’ She commented off handedly to her companion. Most would have witnessed something akin to this in search for a lightsaber crystal, but Faye had never really been interested in that sort of thing. She much preferred fighting with words.

The breathtaking beauty was only overshadowed by the fauna that pranced around the caves, startled by the appearance of the trio. Around the same size as a wolf, their fur gleamed with crystalline bristles that looked so sharp they could cut you from a distance. She had half a mind to approach one in the way their fellow Confederate [member=Kathryn Foster] had done, but Faye could feel their apprehension in the air. It buzzed round the cave like the fractals of light that broke free of their crystal prisons.

Perhaps in time they would be more inclined to get to know their foreign guests, but for now the cave held enough wonders to hold the trio’s interest.

 

[Vytal Noctura]

​

Location: Crait Landing Zone
Objective: Locate, Identify, and Pacify Hostile Spirits

Alwine's answer was disappointing, but not in the estimation of the other woman's abilities. More so, Vytal would have preferred to hand off direct oversight of the less mystical forces to someone more experienced in their tactics. Huntress she may be from Dathomir, squad tactics the likes of which the offworlders used were still beyond a humble Witch. She could command a band of Sisters to surround and slay a beast, or a den of beasts; lead them into battle against a hostile clan even, but blasters, tanks, and bombs were not used as one might a spear or a bow. She knew her strength and the ways of offworlder combat was not it.

Well, they had a leader -- one she did not know -- and she would simply put to trust they could keep their escort in line. Hopefully know fell prey to the horrors that might await them all.

"No, there is no time for requests or their arrival. I welcome the thought," the Nightsister replied with a slight nod. Much as she did the stones that might prove useful. "Distribute the stones among those that do not use magick. Any remaining give to those that do." That should minimize the number inexperienced in dealing with spirits or possession.

Voph -- a Miraluka whose name Vytal was only somewhat familiar with -- then quietly remarked about them being watched. The Nightsister's eyes swept about the surround slowly, merely surveying their path ahead. "Good. Then we will not need to wait long." If the threat would come to them they would fulfill their purpose all the faster.

"Make sure the base remains protected," she called out as the warding spell covered their ship and any ships nearby.

Alwine's voice drew her attention once more, and a faint smile crossed Vytal's black lips. "If that is what it takes. Before that can be effective, we must identify the nature of this haunt. Such magick will be taxing; we cannot afford to cast about blindly." Not if they wanted to accomplish the mission with any sense of urgency. Give them a month and every spirit, specter, ghost, or maligned non-corporeal entity might be purged from the surrounding area -- and from there the world. Much better if they got it right the first time, however; and less likely they'd suffer retaliation once the spectral beings determined their purpose.

With a gesture, Vytal signaled for their number to advance.

"Stay calm at all times. Obey the orders you are given no matter how strange they may sound," the Nightsister's voice rose over their movement into the open. "The mystical world -- or of the Force -- is not one of logic or reason. It does not obey your physics. Nor care for whatever you hold sacred. It is a force unto itself, and it can be as savage as it is captivating." Words she doubted would be heeded in the heat of the moment, but necessary words all the same in case some small sliver rang in the hearts and minds of those that followed. Soon they would come face to face with the unknown. Soon they may come face to face with Death itself.

Tag: [member="Pom Stych Tivé"] | [member="Alwine Lechner"] | [member="Xobos Yakieer"] | [member="Zak Dymo"] | Mandragora | Knights Obsidian | Open​

 

[Pom Stych Tivé]

Location: Base Camp / Transport Vehicle / Mission Site



To her accustomed inner darkness Pom enjoyed the spirit of the child. Her people nurture their children. She hasn’t spent time with the younglings in a long while. That yearning of destructive freedom tugged at her heart secretly. Her thoughts drifted to her Late son and she fought to hide the pain, turn it into power. Even though she feared it when it peaked, she wanted to harness the inner knowledge of her past incarnation. She wanted to learn to control the darkness before she might someday lash out instinctively and it consume her. Would she ever find a teacher?

Pom stood up and after hearing [member="Vytal Noctura"] speak, faced [member="Zak Dymo"] and said, “Oh we are going somewhere else as a group. Let’s take the amulets with us. Come on we will sit in the back of the transport and have a lesson on the spirits; if you like.” The more anyone learned the safer they would be here.

Pom saw the other Knight [member="Xobos Yakieer"] sitting at the back as well, and looking a tad misplaced. She said to their resident Ghostie, Zak, “Give her an amulet to tie around her neck,” and then offered Xobos, “You want to join in?”

The Nightsister sat and waited for Zak to become settled then removed her necklace of bones, finger digits to be exact. “These were taken from my enemies.” She had two strands of fifty bones and room enough on the cord to add more. Oh how she fancied to add a few more! The first digit was recently sent to her from Dathomir of her birth Mother, a Nightmother whom Pom had managed to kill while still in her womb.

"The spirits are at our command as much as other unseen entities. When we Sorcerers conquer their bodies, we enslave their souls." At that statement, Pom called upon the spirit owner of one of the bones to show itself, "Appear before me,'" she commanded.

"Each one has an individual signature which feels to me the very same as they did when they were alive. You know, like a friend, or a total jerk, how different people make you feel about them," she explained to Zak and Xobos.

She commanded the spirits to protect the two, brave, younger Mandragora Knights.

"You hold only these for me until we are finished here,” she said, passing one necklace to each child to wear around their neck. To the Nightsister the thought of one's alignment to the Light or the Dark never crossed her mind, she simply offered what she knew regardless. They could reject her offer of protection and that would be the end of it.

She rose from her seat and walked towards the front of the transport just before it touched down, to hear [member=Voph] announce upon his exit that their purpose had already begun.

During their trek, she would encourage Zak distribute the amulets as he walked, it would help him find his way back to the transport if necessary, as the path and the vehicles would be protected from evil menacing spirits.

 

[Sor-Jan Xantha]

Spoiler: Sweet Dreams (Are Made of These)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QUvVdTlA23w​

Location: Crait Landing Zone
Gear: Medpac | Comlink | Headphones | Lightsaber
Tags: [member="Vytal Noctura"] | [member="Xobos Yakieer"] | [member="Pom Stych Tivé"] | Mandragora

The young Nautolan had an amulet around his neck, holding the others in hand as he listened to Pomsty as the Nightsister steered the boy into the group that was moving from the landing zone.

While the youngling was utterly oblivious to a presence unseen, the crystal within his lightsaber was another story. The greater krayt dragon pearl that served as the heart of Riptide reacting to a malevolent spirit as though the namesake creature from which the jewel had been derived had just roared through Force. The boy turned his head to look down at the curved hilt, when he heard [member="Pom Stych Tivé"] tell him to give an amulet to someone.

Who what was she talking about now? Zak's two second attention span had kicked in, and for a moment the abyssal eyed tadpole had no idea just what Pomsty was talking about. Then he saw [member="Xobos Yakieer"] and assumed that was the person he was supposed to give an amulet to.

"Here," the boy offered cheerily, and with far more energy than was required, as he literally hopped toward the woman and held an amulet aloft for her to take.

It might not be Shake and Bake, but Zak was clearly helping nonetheless.

When he returned back to Pomsty, the woman was sitting down and holding out another amulet. She was explaining what it was. At least, he thought that she was explaining what it was. To be honest, Zak wasn't really listening. It was a necklace made out of bones! "Cooooool," the boy uttered, as a bubbly laugh punctuated the awe as the youngling peered and inspected the bones of the necklace.

And it was made from the bones of her enemies?

Just what were they talking here? Dork Lord of the Sith? Rambolorians? That math teacher who springs a pop quiz on you on a Monday? Already, the boy's imagination had gone wild, even before she started talking about summoning spirits.

"Whoa, like zombies!?" the boy chirped, as his large eyes turned up toward Pomsty.

She had said absolutely nothing about zombies of course. But Zak had only heard about one or two words that she had said. Something something something cool bone necklace. Something something something spirits of the dead. See? Total recall.

Zak had his amulet and now the bone necklace on. With his costume, the boy's fashion sense was nothing if not fierce. Also, how seriously was [member="Vytal Noctura"] taking this 'stay calm' thing? Because Zak always lost at the whole quiet game thing.

 

[Nyx N1X3]

​

​

Nyx was an easy-going sort. Mostly because she didn't experience any emotions she did not wish to, and even those she did were simulations based on extrapolated data from sentient observation. That said, her simulations were incredibly detailed. There had been no shortage in sentient interactions in which to formulate the advanced mathematical formulas. Now the hypocrisy sentients were capable of -- the double mindedness resulting from the inefficient storage of biological memory and manifestation of personality traits -- that was harder to simulate accurately. Work was progressing, however.

That said, it was roughly-analogous-pleasing to see Holt once more. The man had orchestrated an infiltration mission masquerading as part of the enemy's fleet. She could appreciate the work that went into such an endeavor. Nyx wondered if the other woman had as much consideration. They certainly enjoyed themselves in their work, of course, but that wasn't remotely the same thing. Perhaps she should express such thoughts to Holt; if nothing else she would learn how he regarded droids.

Kelsie, on the other hand, did not need to be provided an opportunity. She volunteered one. Still, as Nyx turned her cranial unit to follow the woman's finger, there was no animosity built or ire raised. There was just another bit of cold, hard data. Obviously the woman did not feel inclined to be accompanied on the mission, which was unfortunate in the droid's estimation. The chances of success increased if they worked together cohesively.

Sometimes she wondered why the Ministry felt the need to remain so fragmented. Obviously some agents pursued matters of personal interest. At times these interests seemed to take priority over that of the whole. It was incredibly illogical, and quite human. What was more perplexing was how the upper levels seemed to turn a blind eye to it. Did it somehow fit into their larger picture, or did they consider it a cost of employing spies?

Nyx gathered the indicated supplies. A pack would suffice in holding the gear along with a few other odds and ends. Kelsie mentioned 'old stuff,' which obviously referred to the technology housing the plans. It would be wise to be prepared to deal with equipment that might require substantial work. "A power regulator," the droid remarked as she slipped it into the bag as well.

She turned around to advance toward the ramp, curious if Holt had joined Kelsie in her eagerness to leave the vessel or remained behind. Either way, the droid wasn't concerned about being left behind. Heat exhaust and power consumption were very tangible variables, but exhaustion in the organic sense was not; she had no muscles requiring oxygenation, nor chemical build-up to tire her limbs. Weight was an issue. It would be if any climbing were involved, anyway. Fortunately, the droid had already stashed some gear of her own for such an occasion. One perk of getting involved with the Ministry was never needing to worry about her credit line.

Well, Aurelius or Kiff would have gotten the joke.

Maybe.

Tags: [member="Holt"] | [member="Kelsie Sylvan"] | [member="Daxton Bane"]​

 

[Eternal Storm]

​

[member="Zak Dymo"] | [member="Pom Stych Tivé"] | [member="Vytal Noctura"] | [member="Voph"] | [member="Xobos Yakieer"]| [member="Alwine Lechner"]​

​

The Mandragora's idea to use spiritual amulets to ward off the spirits was original, almost an intelligent motion to take. Indeed, the small group of force-users were entering a place they did not know, nor would they be given a second chance to acquaint themselves. The Miraluka's words were right -- they were being watched.

Eight-hundred years ago, in a time long-forgotten, a massive battle had taken place on the mineral world. Hundreds had died in orbit and in trenches, as cannon fire shook the ground and scarred the beautifully crystalline planet. Those scars faded over time, shifting and softening with the winds, but there were those that did not fade. They had no choice. So much death, so much destruction, and the force. . . the force had manifested itself on Crait that day. For some it had meant escape and survival, but for thsoe that had already fallen into the earth, they found themselves trapped in a state of semi-conscious, unresting, unfeeling, just existing.

But they remembered. They did not see, but they could sense the presences slowly nearing them. The darkness. . . it was so similar, so alike what they had given up their lives to end. And that did not sit well with them. That did not sit well at all.

Slowly, as if riding on a passing breeze, a voice no more louder than the faintest of thoughts filled each of the force-user's heads. "Turn back. Do not disturb the peace of the dead." Faint yet audible, it was as if a multitude had joined together in one voice, all with the same message. Turn away, or die.

 

[Alwine Daye]

Wearing: Obsidian type Strike Armor | "Executor" Boots Exclusive
Wielding: Obsidian Knight Sword | WindWhisper | Pouch of Vita Stones
Tags: [member="Vytal Noctura"] [member="Zak Dymo"] [member="Pom Stych Tivé"] [member="Xobos Yakieer"] [member="Voph"] | + Feel free to join


So much empty space that can be toyed with right here!

Alwine remained silent as she took in the sights. She did not know who many of the people gathered there were, though some she'd known and was mildly surprised at the lack of greeting.

Nodding to the pale skinned woman with the dark markings, the young Lupine turned to look at those who were part of their group. "Take these," she said as she walked to those at first who were not Mandragora ([member="Zak Dymo"], [member="Xobos Yakieer"] [member="Voph"]). "Should you find yourself overwhelmed by spirits, throw them on the ground to activate them. These will create a barrier between you and them through which they should not be able to pass. Every stone has a two meter radius." There was also the option of using them to create a complete circle, but Alwine realized that would not be what they were after. They had to remove the spirits and their source, not just keep them away from the group. Realizing that after the other three, and herself, there were still enough of the stones left, she gave a few to [member="Vytal Noctura"] and [member="Pom Stych Tivé"] each as well.

As the group walked, Alwine listened quietly. This was not her territory, and she knew little to nothing o the world of spirits or other such mysticism. Even with the Force, her focus was more on the tangible aspect of it, leaving the spiritual mambo jumbo to others. Here, she was like a wolf out of its pack in that instance. And she wished… If wishes were fishes. It did not matter.

The words that were coming from [member="Pom Stych Tivé"] though would have been enough to silence Alwine if she'd been speaking. Lupines enjoyed (or suffered, depending on your point of view) a metahuman sense of hearing. Had the woman whispered those words, Alwine would still have heard them. When we Sorcerers conquer their bodies, we enslave their souls. She loathed the sound of that. If sins truly existed and were not a means to control the population, Alwine would defiantly have thought something like that would be on the unthinkable sin list. It was one thing to kill – whether one believed in gods or an afterlife or nothing at all, there was a consensus on the body being a temporary shell. But the soul…

The presence though. She felt it, down to her very bones. The wolf inside of Alwine wished to turn around and leave, the spirits and whatever else might lurk there giving her a sense of foreboding. They were not meant to be there, normal mortals would not willingly be there.

Alwine clutched one the Vita Stones in her tiny hand, and looked to the others for orders or ideas.

 

[Garza]

[member="Srina Talon"], [member="Duckie deWinter"],

GRUUUUUAAAAAAHHHHHHH!

The girthy boi that is Garza stomped down upon the white salt beneath it. The salt crunching and breaking apart from the sheer mass of the behemoth of a creature. It enjoyed the left and right stomping upon little people that walked beneath him. So much so, that instead of full blown roars to announce its presence, the ground trembled and vibrated at the purring of the creature. A guttural purr so deep, yet so satisfying with the crushing of each little person.

However, it started to get a little boring. Garza wanted to look at the little people. It wanted to see how each one was different colors and shapes and sizes. Some had fur or scales. Others had tails on their heads or on the butts. Slowly reaching down, the massive clawed hand reached out to grasp at one of these people. However, as the extension of the fingers scuffed the ground, it's hand phased through the being. Moving right alone with no other things to stop it. At first Garza thought it missed. Confused at first, it tried again. Reaching out a second time, the grip scrapped against the ground. Leaving a trail of red salt in it's wake.

Curious as to why it could not grab onto these little people. Leaning down, Garza got onto all fours, and laid down upon it's stomach. Tilting it's head to be able to see the weird people that were standing and walking around. Breathing in slightly, Garza let a puff of air out from it's nostrils to act as a wind. Attempting to push the people over with his snorts. When that didn't work, Garza foolishly opened its mouth and bit down onto the person. Instead getting a massive chunk of salt in it's mouth.

Rearing its head, growling and using it's tongue to try and spit out the salt. Blowing raspberries, and even going as far to dig his fingers into his mouth to try and get any kind of salt out. Taking a couple minutes to be even remotely bearable. However, Garza was mad now. the person made him eat something he didn't like.

​

SSSKKKKKKKRRRRRREEEEEEEEOOOOOOOONNNNNKKKKKKK!​

 

[Duckie Talon]

Location: On Garza's head
Objective: Don't fall off
Tagging: [member="Garza"] | [member="Srina Talon"]

White, as far as the duckling's beady eyes could see, his webbed feet scrambling as he felt the giant scaled body of his friend shifting, dropping down to the floor as a paniced squawk escaped the duck's bill as he scrambled around on the top of Garza's head. Clawed feet clung to purchase as a wail escaped the duck, this was worse than any rollercoaster that he'd ever been on.

The ducking didn't even know what they doing here, as always he'd just been playing around with Garza, seeing how quickly he could climb his friend when the room had shook and they'd ended up here. An unamused look dropped down to his salt-covered wings as he flapped his wings, the white crystals flying in all directions. The Quacklord of the Confederacy had been many places, seen many things, but this was...not fun. He turned a glare on Garza, his bill opening to berate the lizard for bringing them here when he saw the...people floating beyond him. What the..."Quack?"

 

[Daxton Bane]

Mission : Vital Figures

Tags: [member="Holt"] | [member="Kelsie Sylvan"] | [member="Nyx N1X3"]

Sensing the presence of others close by even before his droid picked it up on its sensors, he pondered if he should cloak his presence or not. With a wordless shrug to himself he decided not to, while they might be an additional complication he doubted they would hinder his quest by any means.

Walking in a brisk stride towards them, he kept his hands free of any weapons least the wrong impression be made, the reflective face plate of his helm raised so they could clearly see the face of Zabrak. Making no hostile actions he closed the gap and greeted them with a fairly friendly manner. “Hello travelers. It would seem we are both seeking the same prize, perhaps we can pool our resources and recover the relic together. My name is Daxton Bane. May I know who I have the pleasure of addressing?”