Faction Sithspawn Safari

[Spirit of Korriban]

Mid Rim
Valrar System
Umori Rainforest

Students have been granted the incredible opportunity to explore a planet of abundance under the strict tutelage of those wiser and more worldly than themselves. Kor'ethyr Academy is hosting a field trip to the esteemed and and intriguing world of Valrar thanks to gracious invitation by none other than Taeli Raaf herself. On this grand adventure there will be little time for leisure and absolutely no patience for mischievous shenanigans. Students are tasked with comporting themselves as excellent guests and various Lordly or esteemed chaperones are tasked with keeping them on mission.​

Objective 1—Bounty [PvE]
[Opportunity for PvP with coordination between players]

For those students who'd rather prove their merit with the sharp edge of a blade or the searing edge of a saber. This objective is meant for those with interest in the more "hands on" approaches to ecology and land management. Your instructors have provided you with an exhaustive catalog of Sithspawn you might encounter on-world. Certain specimens are far more sought after while others pose challenges which will surely get you noticed. As you set out on your journey, you'll be provided with a number of hunting tags that will be registered to you individually and will throw up a beacon to both faculty and an assigned droid. These droids have been painted with the Kor'ethyr insignia and though they absolutely still have lethal capabilities, the battle droid's primary purpose for this excursion is extraction of defeated Sithspawn.

If students find themselves in a dire situation they can attempt to call upon the limited number of chaperones or droids by activating a tag, but those who choose this objective are expected to remain resourceful. When in doubt and if you're outmatched, fall back on the three primary principles of survival: Escape, Hide, Fight.

Hunting teams and parties are encouraged, but be warned that only one hunting tag can be assigned per Sithspawn. Whoever tags it, bags it. Additionally, the state you leave the dead Sithspawn in will affect your overall grading for collecting bounty. A mangled corpse is far less valuable than a clean kill. Teamwork is advised and rivalry expected. May the best hunters prevail.​

Objective 2—Field Work
Field Work [Free-form RP]

This assignment is more cerebral in nature, intended for students aspiring to scientific roles within the Sith Order or those who are otherwise drawn to the beauty of nature and Sith alchemy. You have been provided with the same exhaustive list of species you might encounter and also a great deal of information about the general biome you are visiting, including appropriate ranges for soil pH and various flora that might be collected. Just because you aren't combat oriented doesn't mean you need to miss out on the incredible opportunities provided by the abundance of Valrar. Or perhaps you have already well proven your martial prowess but need to balance out your studies with a test of the mind. Regardless, this objective will have its perils and you'll need to remain ever ready.

Students conducting field work will be provided with clinical field kits that contain all the basics for taking measurements, collecting samples, and beacon pins that can be dropped to tip off student hunters about the whereabouts of promising tracks or even Sithspawn sightings. It would be wise for those of you who wish to avoid fighting to find zones which have already been cleared by hunters, but if you are daring enough to scout ahead there are boons for such bravery. To those more adventurous upcoming scientists, you will be given credit for every beacon pin you drop that is associated with a successful kill and tag made by hunters that followed your lead.

There are numerous ways to prove yourself on this objective and teamwork is heavily encouraged. Carve your own path, work alone or in teams, and above all be sure to carefully document your findings. All collected data will be compiled by the end of the trip and further analyzed. Be cautious out there, because the beasts lurking in the jungle certainly won't differentiate between you and your more combat adept peers. You'll be provided with "SOS" beacons but the same rules of survival apply to you if you find yourself in over your head: escape, hide, and fight only if you truly must.​

Sithspawn Catalog:

Species are marked with * or ** or *** to indicate their level of value for collection. The more asterisks, the more they are valuable they are either for harvest or for the glory in their defeat. The more valuable they are, the rarer they are in your current environment. Underlined Sithspawn may not be hunted and are meant to be observed only. ​

• Sentient:
  
  • Spinner
    
    • Weaver - Second Generation
  • Surgeon ***
    
    • Matron - Second Generation
• Non-sentient:
  
  • Festerer
    
    • Suppurater - Second Generation
  • Ravager **
    
    • Desolator *** - Second Generation
  • Horde Mother
    
    • Horde Matriarch - Second Generation
  • Wasps *
    
    • Hornets * - Second Generation
  • Rupturer
    
    • Erupter - Second Generation
  • Wyvern
    
    • Drake ***- Second Generation
  • Behemoth
    
    • Goliath - Second Generation
  • Poisoner ***
    
    • Contagion *** - Second Generation
  • Blighter **
    
    • Despoiler ** - Second Generation
  • Cobra
    
    • Mantis *** - Second Generation
  • Mohtosi Didasi
  • Rayijadni Nexu **
  • Qyazik Dziri (not to be harmed, but a cunning student might form a bond with one)
  • Irza Zarwa ** (valuable if captured/ dispatched cleanly e.g. cutting off wings)
  • Zasa Raura (not to be harmed, but a cunning student might form a bond with one)
  • Nairi Wasp *
  • Terentasaur ***** (To be approached as a team & with extreme caution)
  • Kasina Satwas ***** (To be approached as a team & with extreme caution)
  • Irahi Dritis ** (valuable if captured/ dispatched cleanly e.g. electrical shock)
  • Misini Arira

Building A Character to Join?
Everything You Need To Get Started:

• Kor'ethyr Academy [Overview Document]
• Kor'ethyr Academy [Codex]
• Getting Started [LFG Thread]

Event Faculty:

• Darth Caedes
• Madrona A’Mia
• Akhuul Sautra
• Alina Tremiru

Interested Parties:

• Chasianna Maiza Vex Adalee Thorne Lysander von Ascania Leshanna Kivah Lucette Viers Connory Gavin Vel Haro Aven Naamino Zuukamano and open to all dark side students or Lords who wish to supervise.

 

[Madrona A’Mia]

Planet: Valrar
Landing Zone: Ketria Lowlands
Exploration Zone: Umori Rainforest​

Their journey over via transport shuttle had been relatively uneventful, but that did not mean A'Mia allowed students to remain idle. They'd be permitted to rest after the field trip, not before, those of them that survived their lessons anyway. Provisions for student survival and safety had been made, of course; chaperones had been recruited, and battle droids would be present. But it was still a nexu eat nexu galaxy, and the students would need to remain keen. Information on the planet they were visiting, the flora and fauna they were likely to encounter, had all been uploaded onto their data pads for them to consult, study, and plan.

Several assignment opportunities were on offer for students, taking into account that each had their own set of skills and interests. The two primary objectives were collecting bounties on sought-after Sithspawn and ecological field work. The former was fairly straightforward— prove yourself in combat while also providing excellent specimens for harvest. The latter was entirely focused on collecting samples, annotating ecological information, and closely observing the wild rainforest.

Upon landing just after sunrise, A'Mia repeated instructions one last time as students geared up for their first foray into the humid forest. They would be expected to return before true dusk each night, and the assignment was expected to take place over a handful of days, though early departure from the field site might occur if the students were particularly prodigious. With her parting words she began setting up a field dressing work station where she would be able to harvest organs and break down Sithspawn into varied pieces.

"Remember to keep an eye on the time and be sure to make frequent annotations on the holomap uploaded to your datapads. It can be so easy to get turned around out there and the night arrives quickly in a jungle. Alright, off with you now! A special reward to the one who tags the first three star Sithspawn."

She wiggled her wooden fingers in fairwell, chipper voice at odds with the risks students were about to undertake. A'Mia was not overly worried about the majority of them, she was a healer after all and a reasonable percentage of them were likely to handle themselves just fine.

Landing Zone in Ketria Lowlands at the edge of the Umori Forest

"The massive rainforest jungle that dominates the main continent of Valrar. Sunlight has a difficult time penetrating the dense canopy, creating an eerie jungle full of monsters and shrouded in perpetual twilight." -Annotation from a Planetary Features pamphlet regarding Valrar

 

[Zanami]

Majesty - Ghost
Gear: In Sig
Tags: Open

Hunting, tracking, killing, assassinating; attach any label to it, she was created for such an event. Though, a small fleck of confusion was presently inhabiting her thoughts. They were here to hunt down Sithspawn, slay the beasts, then tag them; she herself is a Sithspawn, were the others going to hunt her too? Did Mother and Father know she was here, the opportunity to recapture her or correct the mistake they created?

Zanami looked around, noticing she was the first to arrive, though it was a false reality whilst others were already amassed about, and promptly grabbed her pre-assigned tags charging into the jungles. "Why are you running? Do you honestly believe the others will fail to differntiate between this monster and the others?" Zanami ignored the voice, the persona that always tried to justify that she was nothing less than a abomination, an experiment gone wrong. "We all know they are here, watching, waiting just for you. Your pathetic parents. You didn't escape them, they let you go. They are hunting you just as you are hunting your kind."

Zanami ignored the chiding voice, the soulless tones of the words. But maybe it was right. Was she here for the other Acolytes to hunt? Perhaps there were no other Sithspawns, this was all an illusion, a game concocted by Mother and Father for pure enjoyment.

No! She would not be hunted like some feral, rabid animal for sport or otherwise. Zanami stopped, slowly turning her head to look back over her shoulder. As her eyes shifted, her facial features expressing pure hatred, the first of her personalities taking the reigns. "We will hunt them! We will show them that we are no animal to be mounted as a trophy! We...will...slaughter," came the words from that sinister voice: a voice not of reason or comfort, but a voice designed to incorporate fear, disdain, and terror; a voice of madness.

"Let them come."

 

[Lysander von Ascania]

Tag: Madrona A’Mia
​

Having recently transitioned to Korriban and joined the Kor'ethyr Academy, he now found himself confronting the weight of his choices. While it breathed a renewed sense of determination, there were still a few uncertainties lingering in his conscience.

From what he'd gathered thus far, Valrar was both beautiful and treacherous.

A black tunic hugged the boy's slender frame, and over it, a robe of deep purple stood out vividly against the trees outside of the landing zone. On his feet were black boots that went up to the ankles, ideal for any uneven terrain.

The air was thick with a humidity that seemed to wrap around him like a blanket. Sweat was already forming on his brow, only to be wiped away before it would trickle into his eyes. Lysander tried to steady himself, gathering his thoughts.

Before long he activated the datapad, its holomap flashing on the screen. Lines and markers danced across the screen. The blonde meticulously scanned the information, feeling the weight of the task begin to press down on his shoulders. It felt like more than just a mere field trip; this was also a chance to possibly test his mettle.

His brow furrowed in concentration, mentally charting the terrain and noting areas where the Sithspawn could be lurking. He decided that collecting samples of different flora would most likely be his first priority.

The boy decided to linger around just a bit longer as some of the other students began to depart the scene. Working alone was appealing, as it'd allow him to hone his skills without distraction. But the other hand, the thought of teaming up with another student had its own merits, and offered more support again any danger that lay ahead.

A familiar voice soon reached his ears, one that was overly cheerful and seemed somewhat out of place. Lysander allowed his gaze to fall upon the tree figure; his response was a sharply raised eyebrow.

 

[Madrona A’Mia]

As students dispersed into groups or into the forest proper, A'Mia continued to set up her station. She took note of a few who lingered behind, of particularly note were two new students: Adalee Thorne and Lysander von Ascania .

They both must be capable enough in order to test themselves with such a thorough immersion into school life. In particular she eyed the boy's Derriphan colors and her strange gaze spotted a glimmer of kinship in him, the deep gnawing hunger of immense curiosity. The neti beckoned them closer, sprouting a few additional arms to make her set up even faster. With one of those many arms she brought forward her datapad to consider as she addressed them.

"Though no particular favor will be granted to you on your quest, I'd be remiss if I didn't check in since you're new. If I can provided additional information about Kor'ethyr academy as an institution or if you have questions about this particular assignment, ask it of me."

Her strangely intense eyes moved to a few small groups of other students, one in particular causing her to linger. Leshanna had caught her attention in the Survival of Ozzuk trials and whom she'd since decided to sponsor personally. The Sith Shadow already provided the girl with special instructions for her time on Valrar and she eagerly looked forward to seeing if the girl was as scrappy and clever here as she had been prior. A'Mia turned back to the new students and finished her thought.

"If you'd benefit from an introduction to anyone I will also offer support in that regard."

 

[Naamino Zuukamano]

Outfit:
Belt of Strength, Field Com-Scan Link,
Well Worn Boots, Weal & Woe
Model 6 modular backpack w/ provisions, Rakghoul Robes

Tags: Maiza Vex Adean Castor Haro Aven Leshanna Viers Connory Lucette
Adalee Thorne Lysander von Ascania

​

After recently spending time away with his sponsor and the man's brother, Diarch Reign and Diarch Rellik , the serious young zabrak returned to his regular studies with a renewed interest in beast husbandry. He and Gavin Vel had the immense privilege to bond with hatchling dragons who were a special breed of Sithspawn unique to Taspir III and the Diarchy's research lab therein. So rather than choose the obvious mission of hunting and gaining glory through martial prowess, Naamino was actually called to do field work so that he could learn more about the fierce little creature he'd brought into his life as pack-mate and future war-steed. Zafira and Gavins dragon were being cared for back on Korriban by Kor'ethyr staff while they were away and Naami felt mostly certain that Myunnah wouldn't eat the little black hatchling before she got the chance to grow up.

Naami had been exceedingly deferential to Maiza Vex on the shuttle over, but otherwise he'd been treating everyone else with his typical stoic demeanor. Naami only really showed signs of any brood when Micah tol Powl had been mentioned by their teacher Madrona A’Mia , who lamented the kit's absence halfway through their journey. The kit was busy with R&D of a very secretive nature and therefor couldn't attend but Naami kept to himself for some time after, buried in review of the Sithspawn catalog and maintaining relative distance from his peers. Upon landing, the zabrak got ready in his soldierly way: checking all of his belongings twice, double lacing his boots, while making sure to grab both tags and beacons just in case they ran into a spot of trouble. It was better to carry more than you needed rather than be caught lacking after all. He cast his gaze around to his companions to get a general sense of how everyone was feeling about this trip.

 

[Haro Aven]

LOCATION: MID RIM > GLYTHE SECTOR > VALRAR SYSTEM > VALRAR​

OBJECTIVE: FIELD TRIP - FIELD WORK​

EQUIPMENT: Bodie | Vibroknives (x2) | DH-17 Blaster Pistol | Adventure Pack ​

TEAM: Leshanna | Naamino Zuukamano | Maiza Vex | Lysander von Ascania ​

As soon as Haro had heard the announcement for this field trip opportunity, he'd signed up immediately without a second thought. Adventure through a massive rainforest jungle? There was no way he was missing out on that! Too busy fantasizing about living out the Adventures of Jenos Idanian comics–specifically the issue when the daring protagonist journeyed to the jungles of Kashyyyk in search of a priceless treasure, Haro hadn't realized until far too late that the supervisor of the field trip was the scary tree lady, Madrona A’Mia . Haro had done his best to avoid the Neti woman like the plague since he'd enrolled in Kor'ethyr, mainly because she deeply unsettled him but it hadn't been easy. The terrifying plant woman always seemed to be watching and she would pop up when Haro was least expecting it. He would have to play it cool for the field trip though because he knew Leshanna would be there and, strangely enough, the girl really seemed to like Professor Madrona.

During the shuttle ride to their drop location, Haro and Lesh had found seats in the row just behind their zabrak friend, Naamino. For most of the trip, Haro gave a majority of his attention to Lesh–chatting her up, snickering over inside jokes, showing her little tricks Bodie could do, and generally doing what he could to make her giggle. He tended to get restless when he had to sit still for too long but her company seemed to make time fly by. He did occasionally try to strike up conversation with Maiza and Naami as well, but the other boy became exceptionally broody after Micah tol Powl had been brought up.

Toward the end of the ride, when Naami seemed entirely absorbed in the Sithspawn catalog, Haro was suddenly inspired to mischief and pulled out his data pad. He switched to the camera function and, looking at Lesh, put a finger to his lips in a hushing gesture then leaned in toward the back of Naami's seat and motioned for her to come closer. The back of the seat came up to the zabrak's shoulders so his bald horny head was exposed to Haro's shenanigans. Haro proceeded to take various selfies with Lesh, sneakily incorporating the back of Naami's head in as many ridiculous ways they could come up with, including making silly faces or various hand signs. He even angled the perspective of one of the shots so that when Haro stuck out his tongue, it looked like it could be touching one of Naami's horns despite being a foot or so away. Haro then proceeded to scroll through the pictures they'd taken, giggling over the images with Lesh, opening some in an editor and drawing little cartoon faces on the back of Naami's head that comically complimented the scene.

When they finally reached their destination, Haro quickly gathered up his things and eagerly exited the transport, thrilled to finally get out into the jungle and get on with the adventure. The air was surprisingly thick, but not at all like the stale air Coruscant's Undercity sometimes got, and it smelled sweet and moist in an entirely organic way that Haro had never experienced. The noises of the jungle were almost overwhelming but in a totally different way than the duracrete jungle where he'd grown up. His wide eyes followed the trunk of a massive nearby tree up to the canopy that stretched out overhead and blocked out much of the sun. Mouth slightly agape as he muttered "whoa," looking up rather than where he was going, he nearly bumped into Naami who had stopped to assess his peers. His gaze snapped down to meet Naami's and he grinned at him, throwing an arm casually around the zabrak's shoulders.
​

"This is beyond cool!" Haro exclaimed, gesturing at the jungle around them. Then stepped away from Naami before the other boy could get too fussy about Haro's invasion into his personal space and spun on his heel to face the team, his bright green gemstone eyes twinkling with excitement.​

"We ready to go?" He looked to Naami, expecting he'd probably overthought of everything and already collected all the necessary provisions. "Do we have what we need?"​

 

[Maiza Vex]

Theme: Welcome to the Jungle
Equipment: Dagger | Bracelet | Hidden Blades | x5 Homemade Shivs | Power Mace | Holopad
Tags: Haro Aven | Naamino Zuukamano | Leshanna | Lysander von Ascania | Adean Castor | Viers Connory | Lucette

---

She looked at the holopad she had been given, as @Madrona A'Mia the tree lady said some stuff about rules and safety. Damn thing was already dead, she pushed what she thought was the power button several times, but nothing happened. Just her damn luck she got a dud, she growled under her breath at the damn thing. She had hung towards the back group, shamed by her bruised face and ego. Her face was healing but it still bared the outward signs of having the hell beat out of her. She couldn't even lie and say she was jumped by twenty thugs and beat them all down but took a few bumps. All the kids in the Academy knew what happened.

The honor and respect Naamino Zuukamano was showing towards her made feel annoyed. She didn't deserve it, she had lost it would have been better if he had gloated about it and rubbed it in her face. He was being nicish to her, and she didn't like it, mostly because she was beating herself up inside for being weak. She didn't deserve to even be here on this field trip in her own mind, she should be in a damn grave. Also, there was the chance all this differential treatment was because she used her pheromones on Naami and it wasn't real.

She had been so weak she had used the one thing she never said she would on another person. Her signing up for field work instead of the hunt was also because she did not feel worthy to hunt. To her she had lost her pride and honor, there was no spark to fight anymore or to survive. She went on because she was allowed to and because maybe just maybe Iskendyr Yvarro her only friend might give her something to fight for after her wounds had healed.

She found herself being shuffled off the transport just following behind the kids in the group. As she did she tossed the clearly broken holopad in a nearby trash receptacle. The day was already just starting out great for her, she sighed to herself. Maybe if she was this lucky a sith spawn would rip her head off.

 

[Alina Tremiru]

Alina was uncharacteristically just vibing as she watched the students in their excitement. She knew Valrar quite well. How many trips had she taken here herself, encountering the Sithspawn here to fight and train her abilities? It was far more violent and grim than the trip now, certainly. She sipped at what amounted to a big gulp frozen drink, flavored as ever with a mix of Anima. And cherry, this time around. Gave a sweet bitter kick to the taste of Force enriched blood. Big ol' black shades rested on her face to help with the sun.

She looked more like she was here on a beach vacation than to help keep the students safe. It was still odd to her. Her time in the Academy was far more blood thirsty and brutal. How many of her fellow students perished at the age of these students now out on the battlefield? How many were simply killed by their betters for being in the wrong place at the wrong time?

They were so excited. She took another long sip of her drink, glancing over her shades to deeper into the forest. Beyond cool, huh? She hoped they'd be able to keep those thoughts in mind, if they weren't eaten anyway.

Haro Aven | Naamino Zuukamano | Leshanna | Lysander von Ascania | Adean Castor | Viers Connory | Lucette | Madrona A’Mia | Maiza Vex

 

[Zanami]

Majesty - Ghost
Gear: In Sig
Tags: Open

Perched high, feet balancing perfectly with the claws on her bare feet digging into the bark, she watched the jungle from one of the massive trees, sniffing the air occasionally. They were out there, plotting and calculating, thinking they will kill her; foolish they were. They were unlike her, simple flesh and bone so easily crushed, possessing less aptitudes and thresholds; tethered to emotions, to fuel their rage and passions.

She was void of such emotions, she was a blank slate, an absence in the realm of sentiments, insensitive to others, and blossoming daily in the belief that her presentiments where not a curse, but a strength.

The deadliest specimen in the galaxy was not one with superior strength, or wielded the knowledge to manipulate those around them, or spoke in soothing tones to lull minds into false comforts; but the creature that was cornered, fighting for its very survival, with nothing to lose, everything to gain.

And she watched: no painted expression on her face, just those eyes that flickered with lunacy.

 

[Adalee Thorne]

​

Region: Mid rim
System Location: Valrar System
Planet: Valrar
Possessions: Journal of House Dirge | Family Crested Cloak | Hunting and Field Work Manual of Valrar
Equipment: Twin Blades of Dirge | The Point | Bokken (All in Bio) | Holopad | Light Armor

Adalee looked out the shuttle window, her amber eyes scanning the deep lush green jungle below. It reminded her of the Gapanga Grove back on Lorrd. Lately, she had been thinking a lot about home and how she left that life behind her. Part of her felt regretful about not giving the Jedi Academy a try. The other half of her yearned for the truth. She hoped part of herself could forgive the things she had to do to pursue it.

The shuttle lowered closer to the planet's surface and the small whispers from the other students on board reminded her of her youth. It was odd to be on an academic field trip at her age, but when Adalee had stumbled across the Kor'ethyr academy she felt connected in some way. After years of her father forcing her hand at becoming a Jedi, it was refreshing to enroll in something new. Something without a veil of lies attached to it. Anxious with anticipation, she clutched tightly onto her book. The outer binding creased and was torn from old age. The intricate designs formed a central jewel on the cover and the tiny cursive script of an unknown language rested at the bottom.

Her long lost ancestors had somehow given her the very book she gripped. If not for it, she would still be in the dark. Walking the Thorne Estate as a noble swaying the very powerful to contribute to her homeworld in some way. She was a masterful politician, but Adalee was exhausted with such responsibilities. Having to walk on eggshells among others wasn't the life she ever wanted. In all reality, she loved the more crucial conversations. The decisions that could bend nations or whole planets into a very unfair agreement with Lorrd...or for her own self interests.

Adalee had been chasing her father's approval for longer than she could remember. Not even honing skills with her very own blades was enough for him. She was a ghost to him now. In the last year, Adalee had been chasing what mattered, scouring every inch of the galaxy for more information about the family of Dirge. It brought her here, alone and terrified of the answers that could come from discovery.

The ship jerked, the metallic vibrations signaling that they had made landfall. Adalee's eyes squinted slightly, peering out the window one last time as the other students rushed to the exit. The canopy of shade and the vibrant life beyond made her smile. She stood, her attire unlike many of the others. Wealth had bought her an endless amount of outfits and while she would normally be dressed for each occasion, she was wrapped in her family cloak. Beneath it, a black tunic, made of light woven armor and light baggy black pants. On her feet, were lightly made boots, the buckle harboring a crest of the family Thorne.

As she stepped out from the shuttle, the rays of sunlight adorned her pale face. Her wispy long black hair tied up in a pony-tail for what was to come. She carefully slid her Journal back into the deep pockets of her cloak and swapped it for the excursion manual. Adalee didn't really take too much time researching or learning about the Planet Valrar and its creatures or flora. This whole trip was spontaneous for her. In truth, she wasn't even sure if she belonged. Everyone seemed so forthcoming and willing to help that she wasn't entirely sure why she felt conflicted. The only reason she enrolled into the academy to begin with was due to dark magic practices, which according to the manual was a form of Sith Alchemy.

This didn't make sense to her. She knew what the Sith were. Adalee knew that Jedi and Sith were sworn enemies. It was known that Sith, from what she was taught, were ravenous evil warriors and sorcerers. If this were the case, she questioned it. After all the lies from her own mother and father bled into her real life, maybe it was more true that the Jedi Masters that tried to train her were lying about their adversary. Adalee wasn't dumb, there was clearly something sinister about the creation of Sithspawn and how it could be connected to her powers. That's not what bothered her the most. Instead, it was the very pull and obsession she had garnered while reading the Journal of Dirge. For her, she felt like she was under a spell. Only, she was making up excuses. She read about the potential in Blood Magic. She trusted herself that she could use it for the betterment of her people. She could control it. Adalee wanted to be able to unlock her Dirge potential.

If that meant getting in bed with Sith. She would.

She slowly made her way over to the outcrop, where Madrona A'Mia the Neti professor was setting up. Her eyes lifted to find a charming young boy nearby. She had heard the name among the other students. A new transfer by the name of Lysander. It was nice to know she wasn't the only fresh student here, but she also wasn't young like many of them. She met eyes with him for a moment before her attention was given to the professor. It was difficult not to be curious about the Neti's hollowed out eye sockets. Swirls of blue and green encapsulating what seemed to be pupils. This was something Adalee hadn't experienced before. Unsure of how to react, she took notice of the vines atop her head. Where others may have seen a monster, Adalee saw beauty.

As A'Mia spoke, Adalee stepped back in surprise. The energy of her voice was filled with a sprawling mass of positive energy. It was almost eerily cheery to Adalee. Everything from the structure of her oak skin to the vibrant eyes staring back at her, the voice didn't match. Still, it didn't take away from the naturalistic beauty before her. Adalee took it in for a moment and responded to the professor.

"The academy, do you know if there have ever been.." Adalee paused, she looked at Lysander then back to Professor A'Mia. "Connections to a family with the last name of Dirge?" She wasn't sure if this was even the right moment, but it felt good to ask. "Oh, also in the manual here." Adalee flipped through the booklet they were given and stopped on a specific page. The manual showed a giant white lupine creature made from Sith Alchemy, the name of it on the top resembled that of "Pale Beast." Adalee turned the booklet to Professor A'Mia. "Do you know where I might be able to find this beast?"

Adalee looked around one last time as she continued to hold up the manual for the professor to see.

Most of the students had already gone on ahead, which for her might have been a good thing.

Or a very bad thing...

Lysander von Ascania | Madrona A’Mia | Rieka | Alina Tremiru
​

 

[Adean Castor]

TAG: Naamino Zuukamano | Maiza Vex | Haro Aven | Leshanna | Viers Connory | Lucette | Adalee Thorne | Lysander von Ascania | Alina Tremiru
DIRECT TAGS: Open

There were no clothing or accessories that would save Adean from the rainforest's humidity. That much she had begrudgingly accepted, though it had made her think twice about signing up for the trap as a whole. It meant a few days out of both academies, certainly. But with that, even more opportunities for something to out her deceptions without her knowing. That and the feeling of tunic mingling with sweat just sounded like a sensory nightmare.

Still, when Tavis was asked if they were coming, they couldn't help but say yes. Instinct overrode sense and now, she paid for it.

Adean looked over the information they had been given time and time again. Just grab some samples, see what you see, return before dusk. It should be easy. Why, it was a chance to let her hair down for once. Or, if she was attached to a group, a chance to bond with her fellow acolytes. How bad could it be?

As the shuttle began to touch down, she took stock of her supplies. Datapad, battery packs, rations, implements for gathering data, theoretically it was all she needed to get through the mission.

There were a few acolytes she was already familiar with. Naamino Zuukamano , she'd gotten tattoos with and more recently witnessed fight Maiza Vex , who seemed to already be having a rough go at it. She was fairly certain Haro Aven was a witness there, too. Perhaps it would be prudent to remain with the familiar, at least for now.

"Soil and water samples may be a good place to start. Water samples will also give us a good place to stop by when we run out. Wanna tag along?"

 

[Lysander von Ascania]

Madrona A’Mia Leshanna Haro Aven Naamino Zuukamano Maiza Vex Alina Tremiru Adalee Thorne Rieka Adean Castor
​

Lysander wiped away more beads of sweat, his fingers now beginning to leave a trail on the datapad. The short distance between him and Professor Madrona shrunk with each step taken; his heart rate suddenly began to slow in the presence of the Neti.

The boy’s tone was soft yet sharp as he shrugged his shoulders nonchalantly. "I do have a few questions, but nothing that can't wait until after the assignment is completed." He glanced down at the datapad in his hand for a second, then back up to Madrona. His brow furrowed. "Unless you have any advice for those who are new to the academy.. I am still finding my way here."

His gaze drifted to Adalee; she appeared just as uncertain. As it began flickering amongst the lingering students, he couldn't help but feel envy towards those in conversation and camaraderie; however, it was an emotion quickly shoved aside.

With intention, Lysander closed his eyes and inhaled a deep breath, reaching out with the Force to try and connect with the surrounding area. Transitioning out of the light had brought forth its own conflicts. Both guilt and regret sometimes threatened to surface, as he was still attempting to abandon old teachings. A new sense of distrust in recent days had also been noted. But in moments of introspection such as this, the blonde was reminded that he was exactly where he was meant to be, despite occasionally feeling out of place. Now, it was as though he could attune to the rainforest's very own heartbeat and energy, both of which mirrored his.

Once Lysander's eyes reopened, he directed his attention back to Adalee, concealing any traces of emotion. "I'm not opposed to teaming up, if you're interested. It would give us an advantage." His focus would then slowly shift to Leshanna, and anyone others that may have still been nearby, extending the invitation. "Or we could crush anything that gets in our way."

 

[Rieka]

Equipment | In Bio

Location | Objective II

Tag | Adalee Thorne Lysander von Ascania Madrona A’Mia

She had been told to follow the little ones so that they didn't get eaten by some beastie, ordered to keep an eye on them... The irony was not lost, that much was for sure.

Rieka had somehow managed to fall far behind the students, keeping her head high up until her horns got caught in some vine. All three could hear an intense growl from a distance away, the sounds of wood and vine snapping as some hulking monstrosity was approaching.

The thick and humid jungle was potent with scents, leading Rieka to at least stop being lazy and find these three.

Her head slowly and gently prods outward from the thick vegetation, setting an intense scene that looked like a predator about to pounce their prey. In reality, she was just trying to avoid both more vines in her horns.. And less bugs in her nose.

"E'LLO E'LLO.."

Her massive maw rises into a sharp toothy grin.

 

[Madrona A’Mia]

Unblinking and suddenly very still, A'Mia stood over the inquisitive students to hear their requests. The girl was the one with specific queries in mind it seemed, despite the fact the boy burned with an unnamed curiosity. She sensed pain and uncertainty in them both— saw the tangles it left in the Weave around them. Time would tell who they each might become and it was part of her roll to guide them.

“That name is not familiar to me no, but I can check Kor’ethyr’s database when we return.”

Before she could answer regarding the guest Sithspawn Rieka , the glorious creature lumbered forth to introduce herself. In truth, A'Mia hoped that Adalee Thorne interviewed the great beast somewhere nearby so that she could eavesdrop. Though she also knew that even young Sith, or students at all inclined to the darker arts and forbidden knowledge would often guard information as jealously as wizened scholars.

As for Lysander von Ascania , she watched him address the girl beside him but saw the way he sought connection with the others as well. It was subtle enough so A'Mia played along. Her still form suddenly animated and one long finger pointed to her new charge Leshanna , beckoning the girl over.

"Amongst your other tasks you are to introduce this young man to your peers."

Her unnerving eyes turned back to the boy once more before they were both dismissed.

"If you have more specific questions for me later, I shall answer. In the realm of advice? I will simply say: learn fast, form bonds but do not overly rely upon them, and above all… Survive."

She smiled cheerfully in a way that didn't reach her eyes, then shooed them away. Turning to put the finishing touches on her work station, falling silent so she might overhear Rieka and Adalee.

 

[Zanami]

Majesty - Ghost
Gear: In Sig
Tags: Open

Moving through the canopy of trees that cast shadows to the ground below, blotting out any semblance of light from further up from dense leaves, Zanami tracked one of her kind. According to the data file these kin had a name, despoiler. She had watched it skitter across the forest floor into her territory, observing its movements and its physical make-up before deciding to take it down, and tag it.

Stepping across tree limbs and utilizing those leafy, protruding limbs to obscure her from those bulbous eyes, she methodically placed her weight with each footfall to silently mask her approach, whilst preventing the ricketier limbs from betraying her intentions. Quietly she removed the two alchemized daggers from her behind her, opting them over her lightsaber, once over her cousin. With a dispelling of air, she dropped down.

The element of surprise favored her, for she knew her prey could detect the slightest of vibrations, and the vibrations were expelled, rendered absent, with the touching of a surface no longer in play. Mere seconds before the younger of the two Sithspawn made contact, she produced the razor-sharp claws from her toes, plunging them into the carapace: digging them deep to prevent from being tossed off. Simultaneously the two daggers, driving down with devasting force, impaled the spawn's head: the infused Force lightening awakening to course painfully and deadly through the head.

No remorse set in, for she lacked in deficiency such emotions plucked and torn from her, while she crouched down to tag the fallen relative. As she worked, from behind stumbled an Acolyte who began to praise her kill, talking about how he was tracking it himself. But in her mind, she heard a different story, different words being used by the Acolyte, all the while the voices inside acting as the protagonist urging her to kill.

"He's mine," her voice, warped in a different tone from how she spoke, whispered. Steadily her head turned to look over her left shoulder, and it was the look in her eyes, now full bloom in crimson style, that was the last thing the Acolyte ever saw.

Despoiler **: Check

 

[Adalee Thorne]

​

Region: Mid rim
System Location: Valrar System
Planet: Valrar
Possessions: Journal of House Dirge | Family Crested Cloak | Hunting and Field Work Manual of Valrar
Equipment: Twin Blades of Dirge | The Point | Bokken (All in Bio) | Holopad | Light Armor

Adalee waited for Madrona to answer her, but the silence made for a moment of awkwardness. Again, the feeling of misplacement came to the forefront of her mind. She considered turning away to find answers another time, escaping this new life that barely started. She didn't want to leave a life she hated, for another that didn't accept her. The silence continued and before Adalee interjected with impatient sarcasm, the deep thicket behind the graceful red Neti shifted. As if the wind carried a message to alarm her that something was peering at them in the distance.

"I'm not opposed to teaming up, if you're interested. It would give us an advantage." Lysander's voice slipped into the open gapped silence. It was almost calming.

How youthful and smooth his words formed. Adalee remember her teenage years. Unfortunately, they were clouded in memories of responsibility. She had been stripped of her very own youth at Lysander's age. Although many would consider her lucky, due to her wealth. Adalee would have traded her very position as the daughter of the prestigious Thorne House for a chance at getting those formative years back. It didn't do well to dwell on it and so, she shifted her gaze to Lysander. She sighed, her golden eyes illuminated by the rays of sunlight creeping through the canopy once more.

"I wouldn't mind, however-" Adalee's voice was cut off from answering the blonde boy.
"E'LLO E'LLO.." The words crept out from the dense backdrop of the darkened areas of the jungle.

The sheer draft that was created from the sound of the words danced along the blades of jungle grass. The scent was putrid, like a diseased corpse roasting in the sun. Adalee's eyes widened, goosebumps rising to the tip of her skin. She wasn't sure if this was excitement or fear, or both. All she knew was that whatever it was, it could have been her first ever encounter with a Sithspawn. She wanted to turn around, to see what might have been. Still, Adalee didn't want to be rude and if her mother saw her blatantly ignore someone speaking to her, she wouldn't hear the end of it.

"Forgive me, where are my manners. I wouldn't mind teaming up, but I have other matters to attend to first. I'll be heading out for the field work later. If the offer still stands, I'll try and join you."

It was a nice offer, but Adalee had no real intention of joining up with others. She had her own matters to tend to and if the alchemical aspects of her book were correct, the pale beast might have been able to help her. Adalee knew better to think that a sithspawn would fork over information without something in return and she was concerned what the "ask" might have been. Even more so, when she turned around to find a large white furried beast standing at the edge of the outcrop.

This was the gruff voice from moments ago? A creation morphed and formed through years of study and alchemical connection to blood magic? And it can talk?

Adalee's eyes observed, careful to not make sudden movements. She looked past A'Mia, in awe of the beast before them. In a way, Adalee felt sorry for the beast. Having been mutated into a living form of magical and twisted methods. Only for Adalee, there was something as gorgeous in this beast as there was in the Neti before her. She wanted to move closer to it, but her body was frozen in anxiety and her breathing became unsteady. It was now that Adalee realized how much she had been sweating and reached for a portion of her cleansed water in her bag. She gulped it down briefly and looked at A'Mia, waiting for the encouragement to interact with the beast.

It never came.

Instead, the little Thorne took a deep breath and placed her bottle of water back into her bag.

You're a Thorne! Do not show weakness now!

Her internal thoughts screamed at her. The thoughts came from years of her father's expectations, something she would never live up to. But now, in this moment, Adalee understood the unfair lessons...the expectations. She stiffened her resolve and began to approach the beast. It towered over her and the bandage covering the lupine's eyes made her more sorrowful for the creations being. No matter the sympathy she could show it, it wouldn't change what had already happened. The beast's fate was already decided. It made Adalee grateful that hers was yet to be.

"You're..." Adalee's voice started shaky, but not out of fright, more nervousness. If the beast could speak to core elements of the Dirge book, it would mean a closer step to understanding her power. "the pale beast?"

She took note of its claws and sharp teeth. Then the massive toothy grin, it was unsettling. She looked down at the booklet for the excursion and read the bottom line.

Be wary, this particular Sithspawn is hard to please when it comes to hunger. It's massive size demands enormous amounts of food. Carnivourous in nature, it could have a tendency to eat anything in sight, including you.

The words grew bolder as she continued to read.

Extremely dangerous, Use Caution.

Adalee looked back up at the creature. Her sympathy changing to worry.

Please don't eat me.

Lysander von Ascania | Madrona A’Mia | Rieka | Alina Tremiru | Leshanna | Haro Aven | Zanami | Adean Castor | Naamino Zuukamano
​

 

[Gavin Vel]

Objective 1
Tags: Zanami

"SHIIIIIIIT!"

Gavin once again found himself flying through the air as the Nexu whipped him in his chest. The impact stole the air from his lungs, and he crashed against a tree with a sickening thud. His lightsaber was flung from his grasp, spiraling through the dense rainforest and landing somewhere in the underbrush. Gavin groaned, sitting on the forest floor as the world spun around him. The massive frame of Gavin colliding with the tree sent leaves and smaller branches cascading down, a harsh reminder of the sheer force behind the beast’s attack.

Gavin shifted his gaze to the Sithspawn, its hulking form bristling with sharp quills and glowing eyes that radiated malevolence. It prepared to pounce, its claws digging into the earth as it snarled.

"Damn," Gavin muttered, gritting his teeth as it launched itself at him. He barely dodged in time, rolling to the side. But not unscathed—he felt the searing pain of a claw raking across his back mid-roll, tearing through his robes and into his flesh. He let out a sharp yelp, his face contorted in pain as he scrambled to his feet. Without hesitation, he thrust out his hand, sending a force push into the Nexu’s chest. It stumbled back slightly, growling as it dug its claws into the ground to regain its balance. It wasn’t much, but it bought him precious seconds.

"Fuck youuuu!" Gavin roared, pivoting and extending his hand toward the underbrush. With a sharp tug through the Force, his lightsaber soared back into his grasp, its weight familiar and comforting. Unlike his counterpart, Naamino, Gavin didn’t concern himself with cautious strategy or research. He didn’t want to study his Sithspawn hatchling or document the ecological marvels of Valrar—no, Gavin craved the thrill of the hunt, the adrenaline of the fight. Learning was for bookworms. He preferred to dive headfirst into chaos and figure it out as he went.

His thoughts were shattered as the Nexu’s powerful tail slammed into his ribs, sending him airborne once again. This time, he didn’t lose hold of his weapon. Twisting mid-air, he managed a somewhat controlled crash, rolling with the impact and landing on one knee. Pain lanced through his chest and side, but Gavin welcomed it—pain meant he was alive. As he knelt, he activated his lightsaber, the crimson blade igniting with a hiss, casting his face in a blood-red glow.

A wide, toothy grin split his face, full of reckless excitement. "This thing could kill me," he muttered, his voice tinged with giddy exhilaration. That thought didn’t dissuade him; it exhilarated him. The rush of danger filled him with an almost feral energy, the kind that only ignited on the battlefield.

The Nexu paced in front of him, its tail lashing in frustration. Gavin mirrored its movements, sidestepping slowly as they sized each other up. Blood trickled down his side, soaking his black and red robes, where a deep gash marred the fabric. He spared a glance at the wound and frowned. It wasn’t too deep—he’d survive. Probably.

The distraction was a mistake. With an ear-splitting shriek, the Nexu launched a barrage of quills in his direction. Gavin barely had time to react, instinctively throwing up a spherical force push that deflected the deadly projectiles. The quills scattered harmlessly around him, embedding themselves into nearby trees.

The beast growled, its eyes narrowing. Gavin bared his teeth in response, releasing a primal roar of his own. Without hesitation, the two charged at each other. The Nexu leapt, claws extended, aiming to rip Gavin apart. But Gavin was faster. He ducked low, sliding beneath the creature with his lightsaber raised. The crimson blade cut cleanly through the Nexu’s exposed stomach, and it crashed to the ground behind him, skidding to a lifeless halt.

Gavin stood, his chest heaving with exertion, blood dripping from his wounds. He turned to face the beast’s fallen form, his lightsaber still humming in his hand. For a moment, he simply stared, his eyes glinting with respect for the creature that had given him such a fierce fight. Then, with a slow, deliberate motion, he deactivated his lightsaber and clipped it back onto his belt. Bowing his head slightly, he acknowledged the Nexu’s spirit before stepping closer.

As he approached, a strange sensation washed over him. His vision blurred, and his knees buckled. He fell to one knee, grimacing as he clutched his side. A closer look at his wound revealed an ominous discoloration spreading from the gash. His blood looked darker, almost black in some places.

"Poison," he muttered, his voice laced with frustration. Digging into his robes, he retrieved a small med injector, slamming it into his side. The concoction burned as it coursed through his veins, but he hoped it would stave off the worst effects long enough for him to finish this hunt.

"One down..." he muttered, rising shakily to his feet. "Shit, how many beasts are there?" He tried to recall the briefing from earlier, but his memory was hazy. Not because of the poison—Gavin had barely paid attention. He usually zoned out during instructions, distracted by...well, nothing in particular.

"Oh well," he shrugged, cracking his neck. "I’ll figure it out eventually." With that, he marched deeper into the rainforest, the thrill of the hunt still burning in his chest despite the poison coursing through his veins. There were more beasts out there, and Gavin was eager to face them.

Rayijadni Nexu ( * )

 

[Leshanna]

Tags: Madrona A’Mia // Lysander von Ascania // Haro Aven // Naamino Zuukamano ​

Lesh was excited, but nervous, as she boarded the shuttle that would be taking students from Kor’ethyr to the planet Valrar, a jungle planet that was home to a number of Sithspawn creations and which had been graciously opened up to the Sith students by the Sith Lady, Taeli Raaf. She was excited because it was another adventure outside of the Academy’s ever-shifting walls and she had a chance to put some of her skills to the test.

But she was nervous because this was her first outing under “new” management, and her new sponsor - and technically her new mistress - was none other than the unnerving Tree Lady, Professor A’Mia.

Leshanna had actually enjoyed her classes and lectures with A’Mia, so she was looking forward to the tasks that her Mistress had assigned to her, but she also felt the weight of expectation to excel since now one of her teachers quite literally owned her. The details around how the transfer of ownership of the teenage girl had transpired had not been shared with her yet, but regardless the girl felt thankful that she wouldn’t have to deal with her first master ever again. For that reason alone, Lesh told herself that she would do whatever A’Mia asked her to do.

Thankfully, Haro and Naamino were also travelling along with her to Valrar, and Haro was quick to provide a distraction from her thoughts as they laughed and giggled and goofed off on the flight to the jungle world. Of course, her other best friend, Naami, had seated himself in front of the two and she and Haro had indulged in some silly fun by taking selfies with her Zabrak’s friend’s horned head in the background. She knew the warrior boy would not be happy with her or Haro for their antics, but she couldn’t help herself - especially when she was with Haro.

The fun and games came to an end when they landed planetside, however. As the students disembarked, Leshanna let her eyes shift as she took notice of everything around her. It was just after dawn, and the jungles were just starting to awaken as the rays of the planet’s star began to warm the humid forest. Professor A’Mia soon gathered her students around her and began to pass on instructions to the various groups; some were set to go hunting, and others - like Lesh - had opted to do field work.

Well, A’Mia had decided that Lesh would be doing field work, as she had given special and specific instructions in private to the girl to carry out.

As Lesh prepared herself for the coming day’s events, she took notice of all the other students around her. Some had already set off on their hunts, and others were getting whatever supplies they needed in order to undertake their field work studies. Two of those getting ready were a boy and a girl she had never seen before, and she wondered if they were perhaps new to the Academy. She watched as Professor A’Mia spoke to the two new students, and eavesdropped a little bit on their conversation. The girl asked something about a family name, before moving on and asking about a particular Sithspawn and where she might locate it.

The boy, blond haired and rather handsome in appearance, responded to A’Mia and sought out some advice on how he might be able to work his way around the Academy since he was so new. His gaze drifted, looking over those who were still lingering, saying that he wasn’t opposed to teaming up with someone else,

Her attention was pulled when the sound of something large began to make its approach, and everyone in the area looked to see a pale creature emerge as a growl rumbled from its chest. At first, the thought that it might be some dangerous Sithspawn entered her mind, and no doubt the minds of others gathered around - that was until the giant creature spoke to them all, revealing a fanged and toothy smile that would set anyone on edge.

A’Mia did not look disturbed or troubled by the newcomer, and beckoned Leshanna over to her for a moment. The girl stepped towards the Tree Lady, her expression a bit more composed and perhaps even serious as she folded her hands in front of her and stood in respectful silence as A’Mia addressed her.

"Amongst your other tasks you are to introduce this young man to your peers."

“Yes, Ma’am.” Leshanna responded as she glanced over at the boy, waiting for the Professor to finish what she had to say to the blond newcomer before stepping over to where he was.

“Well, it seems that the Boss Lady has spoken. If you’d like to work together, I have some tasks to do and wouldn’t mind a tag along. Name’s Leshanna, by the way. You can just call me Lesh though.”

 

[Trayze Tesar]

Objective 2—Field Work

---

CURRENT MISSION - Green Thumbs and Shaking Hands
Immediate Goals -
1: Escort your fellow Acolytes through the underbrush
2: Try not to get any rashes...

BLUFOR - Sith Acolytes

OPFOR - Enemy Unknown

TARGETING ACTION(S) - Adalee Thorne || Rieka || Lysander von Ascania || Madrona A’Mia || Leshanna || Those on Objective 2 || OPEN FREQUENCY

---

The fresh air did him well, it always did. He was happy that the first "official" assignment as an acolyte - the first time he had attended Sith-centric education since the days of the Palace of Silver Rain - was in someplace where the rough-and-tumble former Bantha Herder could stretch his limbs and the aura. Indeed, he was an Acolyte, and a long-overdue one, though most of the other Acolytes no doubt wrote him off as an extra chaperone to assist their teacher should shit hit the fan. So far, no jabs about his age, his funny accent, or generally tired and five-o-clock shadowed face were spoken during their march into the underbrush - the prospect of encountering alchemical ingredients and dealing with feral Sithspawn.

Now the teacher, Ms. A'Mia had dismissed the students with their chiefest objective: survive. This trumped all else, as nobody could get top marks if they were dead, though the Kiffar had his own designs. He had spent many long hours correlating what he had learned in the Peacekeeper's Academy's Forensic Class and the variety of alchemical reagents present within the underbrush, the myriad of Sithspawn to keep track of, and their more... esoteric applications.

While within fading protection of the "Safe" Zone, the Kiffar did little to hide his aura in the Force, nor his mastery over it. Razor-sharp rays shot into the jungle rather than the sweeping waves associated with senses, and his presence was more a geyser ready to burst, humming unheard in the Force as he waited for any potential predators to come to him, rather than trundle into trouble. One such familiar presence was someone he had encountered before, and a slight smile grew on his lips. A part of him wanted to reunite with the large beast, to touch base and make sure that the terrified acolyte wouldn't kill her - or more likely, get killed by her; but he reminded himself that trust was made, not implicit. He would allow his fellow students to conduct themselves well, and he turned around, asking generally. "Who here's plannin' on bein' herbalogical t'day?"