Private The Book You Don't Read

[Leven Jeyd]

Location: Dragonne Palace, Azurine City, Illyria.
Tagging: Xobos Yakieer ~ Cali Ziiva

​

The wound in her back was fully healed, and still, her pale little hand would always return to her shoulder every once in a while, crystal white eyes peaking over it as if to make sure that her precious and unique skin was indeed intact. Leven could remember the pain so well that she could almost feel it again if she focused enough. A pang of irritation run through her at the thought, it had been a close call. Too close for her liking. And now the changeling had grown skittish, cautious eyes running around every square inch of her surroundings with an intent that could border on pathological.

They had already crossed the main gates of Dragonne Palace. The name was somewhat silly to her, and soon her mind flashed back to the night they took her from the Acrophylia. The night she had turned into a Trandoshan, a dragon-man there to steal away Princess Cali, and the darkness that had come from the Miraluka at her choice of scaly skin. Her anger flared for a moment as she inevitably proceeded to recall the events that had happened after, cold eyes falling to the mark on her forearm before gliding towards the Sith Knightess herself. If there was anything dampening her foul mood, it was the presence of the Zeltron and the many new things to see around her.

Illyria would become her new home, but she did not know the capital as well as she did the province of Garde Noire were her Master's hold sat. Between her now heightened watchfulness and her inquisitive nature, it was an understatement to say that she was curious. This was a Palace. A home for a King and a Queen.

The silky and high-pitched voice of the Jester abandonned its trademark silence, directed at the pink lady whom she was walking impossibly close to. "Are we going to meet more princesses?" There was a bit of singsong to her tone, either amusing herself or trying to amuse the Zeltron. Leven understood that in this planet, Xobos was nobility and that there were lords and ladies. At the same time, she struggled or simply didn't care enough yet to separate this reality from...a children's story. After all, monarchies had been nothing if not a regular theme of fantasies for the Jester.

Little did she know that what awaited within the palace was something much less exciting, and perhaps infinitely more important. That was always the trick with the Jester. Sometimes she saw value in the dirt, and fortunes in worthlessness. Any knick or knack could be a treasure so long as it promised her satisfaction. For a creature threatening to overflow with ambition, her willingness to look into the future and make sacrifices in the present was non-existent.

And there was nothing that would strike her as fun about an afternoon spent in a library.​

 

[Cali Ziiva]

Outfit: Outrageously Appropriate
Location: Dragonne Palace, Azurine City, Illyria

Cali strode along with the other two ladies with the dulled clack of her high-heel boots. Her head tipped to the side and turned so her bright eyes fell on the not-so-mirthful Jester in their midst when the young creature spoke up. Her right index finger stopped short of her o-shaped lips just just a second before she responded, "I don't think so. There seem to be a lot of Sieurs and Counts and stuff, but far as I've met I'm the only Princess." The Zeltron grinned after her declaration of being the absolute authority in cuteness on the planet.

Outlandish, misbehaving cuteness. Of course, that's only if you listened to certain elements -- those aspiring for or holding authority, mostly. Cali, naturally, didn't. She couldn't see what all the fuss was about really. Like, shouldn't she be able to walk around naked and it not cause a fuss? Wasn't like she was advocating jumping people on the streets. 'Cause, again, Zeltrons weren't sex-crazed demons.

Actually, it was usually the other races that were sex-crazed. A Zeltron was just inclined to go 'oh, sure' if asked. If the company was pleasant. They could just as easily enjoy a nice, hot cup of chocolate too and watch a sunset. Or maybe go to a play, attend an Opera, or go dancing at a club. Like, people did things, and long as it wasn't infringing on someone else's good time, what was the big deal with how she dressed, or how she acted?

Authority Figures, however, demanded people act very particular ways, or they might imprison, torture, or kill you. You want to talk about 'problems?' Extreme over-reaction and authoritarianism was a problem. Galaxy could learn a lot from Zeltros -- like, stopping being so serious.

"Maybe you and I can work on making more, huh? Spread some cheer." Cali didn't look at Xobos, but the Zeltron figured that would get a reaction. Even if the Miraluka didn't express it. Nothing wrong with gently teasing her Xobos. Wasn't like the pink thing had an plans to actually smack Malvern. Well, okay, none she was going to act on. Currently. That man was really testing her patience though.

Jester probably felt the same way, but about her own condition rather than the suffering of the Miraluka. Actually, Cali wasn't sure what to make about this whole 'no shapeshifting whenever' thing. Didn't really mesh with a Zeltron's live-free-and-party philosophy. It was definitely messing with Jester's mood too.

Tag: Xobos Yakieer | Leven Jeyd

 

[Xobos Yakieer]

Location: Illyria, Azurine City, Dragonne Palace.
Equipment: Illyria Knight Armor, Knight Saberstaff, Miralukan Eye Mask
Mental state: Silent.
Tags: | Leven Jeyd | Cali Ziiva | Alessandra Creed | Adron Malvern |

The soft hum of the speeders engines had lulled Xobos into a moment of peaceful rest. When one learned underneath such a man like Adron Malvern, they learned to steal moments of sleep whenever possible. Moving from planet to planet, training mission after training mission, battle after battle, sleep became a luxury only received in the most precious of moments. Old habits were hard to break, and the few minutes of sleep Xobos had been able to steal during the speeder ride to the capital had been refreshing to say the least. A lecture in making sure she got enough sleep would be oncoming from Cali soon, and it didn’t take her to be force sensitive to know that.

Soft conversation was enough to wake her, masked eyes looked from her apprentice to the Zeltron. Two of the closest people to her at the moment, and it wasn’t just because they all now lived together under one roof. Leven and her’s relationship was..taunt, to say the least. Even after Dorvalla, Xobos knew that the changeling still resented her for the mark on her forearm. Despite that, it wasn’t going anywhere. The control that the former King’s apprentice had over the jester was crucial, at least in her mind, for Leven’s growth. The strain on their relationship for now was very real. The hope that eventually they would grow closer was also burning bright as well. Adron and her’s relationship had began to mend, anywhere.

And Cali was..Cali. Their relationship was special, and even a blind mynock could see such a thing. Keeping her on Illyira for the majority of the time did wonders for Xobos’ stress level.

Tall, mountainous spires creeped over the distant horizon soon after, a preview of the illustrious palace to come. Her home, at least for a while. She knew those spires well. Many days, after training had broken her body, sometimes even her mind, she climbed them. Using what was available as footholds and handholds, a journey to the top did wonders to clear her mind. And the sunsets that could be seen while perched atop were painted with colors that would never, ever leave her mind. It was a mystery whether or not Adron knew she did this, but it wouldn’t surprise her if he did.

Those more happy memories of her training were interrupted by a sing-songy voice, but not the one that typically came from the Zeltron on her side. Jester’s tone brought a slight smile to her face, but the response was still a shake of the head. “No..unfortunately not today. However..there’s always a chance you’ll meet the King and Queen of this world.” She did her best to make it sound enticing, but knew that Cali would pickup on the pause on mentioning the King. That was his title, but he was still her master to her. The one that still had his mark on her opposite forearm.

Cali’s little jab earned her a glare shot in her direction, but before the Miraluka could respond, the sounds of the speeders engines beginning to slow butted in. After a few moments, they came to a rest, attendants pulling the speeder closer to the dock by hand. They were kind men, ones that Xobos had spent plenty. Giving each of them a soft nod and smile, reciprocated by a bow of the head in return by both, she disembarked. Taking a few strides away before turning to look at the other two, what little smile she had peaking at the edges of her lips visibly grew slightly at the prospect of what they were about to do.

“C’mon you two. We’ve a library to visit.”

 

[Leven Jeyd]

Location: Dragonne Palace, Azurine City, Illyria.
Tagging: Xobos Yakieer ~ Cali Ziiva

​

Leven's smile seemed to fall slightly at Cali's announcement that they would not be meeting any more princesses. It would have been fun, she couldn't help but wonder if they were all like the Zeltron. Of course, It was inclined to believe they weren't. Leven had taken a special liking to Cali, and that alone was enough to set the pink lady apart from the rest. Afterall, she was not a true, titled princess, and still the Jester had decided she was in every way equal if not even more important. The creature's fascination was something to behold, and in a way, it would seem as though the hard feelings she harbored for the Miraluka were redirected into approval and enjoyment of the Zeltron's company.

Then again, another little detail contributing could easily be the fact that Xobos' patience seemed to see its limits extended whenever Cali was around. Jester did enjoy testing those limits.

As they walked out of the speeder, she remained between the two women. All she knew so far was that she was not meeting a princess. Then, what were they to do in this palace? Her mind raced with a myriad of possibilities, prancing from one exciting idea to the next. Her own thoughts were amusing her so that a sly little smirk curved her lips, joy evident in her features. It did nothing but increase when Xobos mentioned the possibility of meeting the Monarchs. The Jester knew nothing of etiquette yet, and - although unbeknownst to her - her excitement was born not only of the possibility of meeting them, but of them meeting her.

She had caught a glimpse of the King on Taloraan, and although the opinion of others never mattered as much as her own, the prospect of learning what a Queen and King would think of her was entertaining. But then the truth came up. Leven's crystal eyes met Xobos' as the Miraluka turned slightly to face them as they walked, a mixture of perplexity and disillusion shining in her gaze.

A library? But libraries aren't fun.

Once again, the Jester turned to look at Cali, hoping to see an expression in her that indicated that her Master was only...well, jesting. She did not find what she was looking for, and a vexed frown began to distort her expression. This day was supposed to be fun. Visiting the big, pompous palace had to be fun, right? Very few people got to go there. Now she realized why, why would anyone go in there to read?

"Books?" Her voice intervened once again, a cross between a sinister slither and a harmonic melody. Her disapproval of the day's plan was more than evident, conveyed perfectly in a single questioned word.

 

[Cali Ziiva]

Outfit: Outrageously Appropriate
Location: Dragonne Palace, Azurine City, Illyria

Cali smiled and stared at Xobos when the Miraluka tried throwing nonverbal shade at her pink girl. The cuteness could not be denied. And Illyria could definitely use more cuteness -- and princesses. Maybe some handsome princes too. The dashing, brave, and gallant types. Hey, Zeltrons liked princes too. Nothing wrong with fairy tale magic and scenic thrills.

As they were soon disembarking the vehicle, prinkly-but-snuggable -- Xobos -- announced their grand destination... The Library! Cali's smile didn't wilt an iota, but neither did the pink woman blink for a few seconds either. Wait, the Library? That was a joke right? Kind of like when the Jedi first told his pink apprentice she needed to meditate. Uh, Zeltrons didn't do 'quiet' or 'still' or 'placid' well. Kind of an evolutionary dead-end? A genetic predisposition toward anything but? An incomprehensible state of being, really. And Libraries were all 'shhhh.'

Her gaze turned toward the intrusive little minx -- Jester -- that parted Cali from her Miraluka. Bright eyes met a growing stormy gaze of the shapeshifter as she seemed less...thrilled with the declared prospects. The Zeltron's pinked hair slowly shifted to one side as she tilted her head and looked up toward the sky a bit. Yeah, uh, Libraries were full of excitement... and dust.

"Uh, Xoxo, learning is great, you know, staying agile in the head as well as the heart, but could you elaborate on why we're going to the library? 'Cause I'm pretty sure 'No Zeltrons' is one of those things Librarians wish they could post, but can't because that's speciest." Likewise, Zeltrons would love to post 'No Librarians' but couldn't be bothered... and well the booze and music and fun usually kept them out all on their own. Except the cool Librarians. There were cool ones. Cali hadn't met any, but it was a big galaxy there had to be at least one.

Tag: Xobos Yakieer | Leven Jeyd

 

[Xobos Yakieer]

Location: Illyria, Azurine City, Dragonne Palace.
Equipment: Illyria Knight Armor, Knight Saberstaff, Miralukan Eye Mask
Mental state: Silent.
Tags: | Leven Jeyd | Cali Ziiva | Alessandra Creed | Adron Malvern |

It felt appropriate to be back in these hallways. Even now, walking as a knight of Illyria, receiving a bow of the head from what seemed to be every servant they passed, the memories of being nothing more than the King’s newest apprentice seemed to happily come back and flood her mind. That time in her life had solidified the idea that Illyria was her home, one that she would loyally protect until the very end. One day, she hoped that Leven would feel the same way about this place.

Both of her companions reactions to their destination being so…disinterested brought a legitimate smile to her face. “Oh, of course, a normal library would most usually only have books and some small trinkets. But..” her head looked over her shoulder, catching the eyes of her apprentice in a gaze that the Miraluka knew Leven would feel. Her smile never wavered, even as she continued to speak in that low voice. “My former master’s library is anything but normal.” Letting the words sink in for a moment, gaze eventually returning to straight forward, Xobos couldn’t help but chuckle at how Leven’s reaction was quite like her own the first time that she had been told to study in the library. Books had been a core part of that, not that she minded too much, but the bigger aspect was something much more…tangible.

Luckily, the library was not far from where they had landed, meaning the walk to their destination was short enough to build anticipation but not exasperation. When they finally got there, the group was stopped by a pair of the royal guard, one stepping forward with a hand held out. “Knight Yakieer, I assume this is the group we were told to prepare the study for.” With a nod, turning into a bow of her head, Xobos turned to wave forward both of the companions she had brought this day. “Yes sir. Standard procedure for entering, I assume?”

The man responded with a nod, then with a wave of his hand, the other guard moved forward with a platter held out in front of him. Without a word, Xobos removed the saberstaff from her belt and placed it on the plater gentle, minimizing the sound of metal against metal. Turning to Cali and Leven, she nodded toward the platter with a forceful motion. “On the plater. Lightsabers and knives. Weapons are not allowed within the confines of these walls.” It was obvious from her tone that this was a no give rule. It would be followed. While she did glance in Cali’s direction once or twice to make sure the Zeltron had removed her saber, her gaze was fixated to her apprentice. Leven would not be pulling any tricks in this matter.

When the rule had been followed to the letter, the guards would step back, allowing the group to enter into the library. Well, perhaps library was a generous term. As the group entered, her companions would quickly realize what xobos had meant when she had said that Adron’s library was anything but normal. The massive skeleton of a Kyrat Dragon sitting in the middle of the room spoke to that.

The place was more of a museum, surrounded on all sides by thousands upon thousands of books, than a regular, dusty old library. And Xobos hadn’t even shown them to their study for the day either.

 

[Adron Malvern]

KNOWLEDGE​

Tags: Leven Jeyd Xobos Yakieer Cali Ziiva ​

Knowledge was not power. It was a lust for power. A lust that the young Sith Lord had indulged in since his days as a young Jedi Padawan. A sense of nostalgia briefly came over him as his hand pressed against the thick leather spine of a tome placed upon one of the hundreds and hundreds of shelves held within the Royal Library. His amethyst eyes glanced over the spine, watching as the thinly etched symbols embedded on the spine of the book seemed to glow a faint shade of red at his touch. His hand drew back for but a single moment as his mind was flooded with memory and knowledge from a time long ago. The Force quaked from the reaction, causing his hand to softly press to his temple before he turned his eyes back to the shelf.

"Extraordinary." He remarked softly to himself before plucking the book from it's place on the shelf. He tucked the book under his arm before his hand fell back to the small of his back. His eyes looked over the books before him. Most were crafted with ancient means of parchment and animal hide, a quirky little process in place of civilized technology that never ceased to amuse the King of Illyria. Still, he took to books more so than he did a datapad. Something about them just seemed to age well.

"Your Majesty. I believe we have recorded that specific work onto a datapad for your convenience." A voice called out to Adron, however it was eerily faint. The King glanced down under him. There was no floor directly beneath him. It was about three or four meters below the soles of his freshly shined shoes. He stood, suspended in the air through the power of the Force. The man who spoke from below wore thick robes of black and teal which fell down in small pools on the ground beneath him. The Grand Architect and Curator of the Royal Librarian was an aged, hulk of a man who stood a clean foot higher than Adron. Still, for his massive size and imposing presence the man was truly a Chevalier de Coeur, a Knight of the Heart who had committed himself to the art of Historic Restoration and Categorization.

Adron was appreciative of the man's efforts and skills, less so his meticulousness.

"No this will do. However, have a copy sent to my personal chambers. I may decide to do some late night reading tonight." He informed the man as he began a steady descent back down to the pristine marble floors. The King's hand slipped into his pocket for a spare moment as he handed the book to the Grand Architect. The older man nodded humbly at the King's words before taking the book and carefully tucking it into a shelf on a small cart he had been moving around the library. "Will that be all, your majesty?" The older man inquired. The King paused for a single moment, turning his eyes down the main walkway for the library. He was silent for a moment before turning to the Curator and nodding approvingly. "It will be enough. Have them taken to my private study."

"Of course, sire." The man bowed his his head once more before turning and exiting with the cart.

Still, Adron was not yet finished. He turned his eyes back down the aisle he was on and allowed a knowing smirk to come across his face. He pulled at the slate vest that he wore, adjusting it to flatten out any wrinkles that may have formed. In the next moment Adron's feet stepped up and he was lifted into the air once again, almost as if walking up invisible stairs. He moved higher and higher, his hands rising as he stepped into the air once more. His fingers twitched, causing the books on the shelves to rustle unnaturally.

Adron stood, standing several meters over the shelves. The books continued to quake and rumble about before finally one of them flew from it's place. It flew towards Adron, immediately opening it's face to reveal the off-white pages within. The pages began to flip about as Adron began to speak lowly, his arms falling to the small of his back as his amethyst eyes began to glow so bright that the dark aisle had a purple glow flow over it. He seemed to speak, yet his words were low and incomprehensible as the pages continue to flip about in the book. Another book would soon fly off the shelf towards him, and another, and another until there was a complete ring of books around him, each one floating a few inches from him as he continued chanting softly. ​

​

 

[Leven Jeyd]

Location: Dragonne Palace, Azurine City, Illyria.
Tagging: Xobos Yakieer ~ Cali Ziiva ~ Adron Malvern

​

As they walked through the palace, Leven made sure to take a good look at every servant that nodded respectfully at her Master. Some of them then laid their eyes on her, apparently slightly disturbed by the completely blank expression that she sported at the moment and the intensity of her unnaturally clear eyes. This was the only studying Leven knew how to do. Faces. Never forget or miss a face, never pass up the addition of another mask to her repertoire. Although, whenever she found herself enacting this old habit, she also felt irritation. Now her wardrobe of skins was closed to her, inaccessible.

Then they reached the entrance to the so called library, and the Jester seemed to be in no rush to get there. When the royal guard got to her he had to lean forward so that she could reach the plate, but instead of complying immediately, Leven once more took to scrutinizing the guard with no shame whatsoever. Then a tiny smirk found itself onto her lips, she could feel Xobos' gaze on her. It was only then that she grabbed onto the daggers that were sheathed at her hips, placing the two next to the lightsabers. However, that was not all.

Her nimble hand buried itself in one of her pockets, the royal guard looking on with guarded attention. Leven did not own any weapons besides those knives, so what could she possibly be reaching for was as much of a mystery as the young changeling itself. Her head turned to the side, mischievous eyes looking at Xobos as her closed fist finally retreated from the pocket and made its way towards the plate. Once it reached its destination, the fist opened, and elegantly laid down by her thin fingers was a single coin.

Rounded, silvery and with some form of imprinted pattern, but a non-descript, harmless coin none the less. Whether it had been meant as a joke at the expense of the Sith Knight who had made a point of keeping an eye on her, or whether it held some deeper meaning for the Jester would remain unknown. The royal guard, irked by the changeling's unnecessary delay, straightened his back once more and retreated. It was then they were allowed entrance to the library.

As they moved, the amused expression on Leven's face changed into a cautious one. Stirrings in the Force were something she was still getting used to, and an overbearing dark presence loomed in the air. "What is that?" The question was laced with her distrust and discomfort, it was already known that she did not take easily to things that felt threatening or out of her control, specially if they manifested themselves in the Force, the magic she was trying to learn more about. So, she reclaimed her place between the two women, unconsciously seeking refuge in them.

Her eyes immediately began to dart all over the place when they reached the library. First on the krayt dragon's skeleton that hung above them, then on this shelf or the other one and the artifacts that rested behind crystal containers. Every single one of this things would have been more than enough to catch her attention on a normal day. But right now, she was trying to find the source of the disturbance. She remembered her lesson on Dorvalla...wretched Dorvalla, and soon enough her eyes had settled in the direction in which they soon would encounter a man, floating early above all while chanting. Suddenly, the place was a lot more interesting than she had envisioned it to be.

Rendered silent for the moment, Leven locked her gaze in the one she recognized as the King. The man she had seen in Taloraan.

 

[Cali Ziiva]

Outfit: Outrageously Appropriate
Location: Dragonne Palace, Azurine City, Illyria

The Zeltron squinted across at Xobos for a moment. "Doooubt. Unless it has flaming-sword swallowing, muscular men or a hydra trapped inside it, pretty sure it's still going to be a library." Oh, sure, the Sithy was probably all 'but they're magical books.' As though imbuing something with the Force made it special. Well, okay, if it could install in her all its knowledge in a second that would be magical and still leave plenty of time for fun.

Despite what Cali said -- as usual -- the pink one among them smiled, hummed, swayed her hips, and generally wasn't perturbed about their library visit. There could be fun at the library. Anything was possible. Xobos wouldn't lead her cutey astray, right? Well, might try to lead her to The Dark Side, but otherwise wouldn't do anything questionable or dangerous or 'fun.' Nothing wrong with getting into a little trouble now and then. Or whenever she could.

Once they arrived, she clasped her hands behind her back and tilted her upper body toward the guards. Wide eyes regarded them as the Sieur-Knight did her mysterious song and dance. The Study. Could be spooky. Even a procedure for entering a Library. Okay, like, really? 'Not a normal Library,' yeah, yeah, but... They didn't have a hydra in there did they?

Blink. Blink. Tray. Guard's face. Xobos' face. Tray. "Xobos," Cali playfully whined, "I can't leave my mind out here, and that is my strongest weapon." The Zeltron straightened up and preened for a moment. With a stab of her finger in the Miraluka's direction she added, "I bet the King would agree with me too."

After she drew in a deep breath, Cali let it out patiently. A small shrug followed. Nothing for it, right? Her hand reached down to the blaster at her hip, but instead of drawing up and out her palm pushed the butt down. A cylinder shot upward in response for a pink hand to snatch it out of the air. With lifted brows, she deposited it on the tray as instructed. "Careful, I made a few modifications to this one." A playful wink to the guard later, she turned to regard Xobos expectantly.

Only a second later even Cali's attention was drawn to the mischievous changeling. Theatrical. Though the Zeltron did lean forward a bit and lift herself onto the tips of her toes to peer at the coin before it was stolen away. Another blink followed the disgruntled guard at being held up for such a display. Yeah, maybe Jester was being a pain, but Cali did wonder. With the right application of force -- or Force -- anything could be a weapon.

"Ooh... That's not a hydra," she announced when they entered the library, "but it was pretty dangerous." When it was alive. Nice set piece though. But you know what else was present? Books. Lots of books. Because it was a library.

Jester's sudden demand for an answer drew Cali's attention once more. "Huh? What's what?" Did the changeling feel a disturbance in the Force? Probably had something to do with the man floating in the air. Oh, snap. "Xobos..."

Tag: Xobos Yakieer | Leven Jeyd | Adron Malvern

 

[Xobos Yakieer]

Location: Illyria, Azurine City, Dragonne Palace.
Equipment: Illyria Knight Armor, Miralukan Eye Mask
Mental state: Silent.
Tags: | Leven Jeyd | Cali Ziiva | Adron Malvern |

The mark on her forearm burned softly, reminding her of it’s presence. Not the her mark, the one inscribed on Leven’s arm, but the one given to her by her master. It always burned like this when he was around, especially when he was showing off his power. It’s low, rolling waves of burning didn’t hurt much, but it was certainly enough to remind her of it’s presence. And that was before she saw him floating in the air, surrounded by a ring of books. While both her companions made comments on the appearance of the King, she was mostly silent, smiling softly. She didn’t understand much of what he was saying, but did catch a few words spoken in some ancient sith dialect. Bowing her head as the man approached all the closer, Xobos spoke just light enough under her breath to be heard by the king, along with her companions. “Sith’ari..”

Raising her head after a moment, she motioned for the entourage she had brought to follow her along the rows of books. “C’mon, let’s move to our study for the day and try not to disturb him. Obviously he’s…deep in concentration.” The king would follow them along the rows if he was looking for a conversation, and if he noticed where they were going, there was a good chance he would.

Xobos’ fingers trailed along the spines of the books they passed, soft smile never ceasing to crease her lips. This place..this place brought back good memories. Memories of escape, of study, where her training didn’t involve death defying missions. She could just spend hours in this place, reading, studying, practicing the techniques taught. Even as much she did enjoy the missions that took her to planets she had never seen, taught her skills that would benefit her life for years to come, it was in the library that her true enjoyment seemed to come from most days.

The walkway eventually lead to a spiral staircase which Xobos started to lead the group down. It was then that the scale of the library could begin to be realized. They had seemingly entered on the top floor and each spiral lead them down another floor. Floors and floors full of trinkets, books, and alchemy tables. Each spiral seemingly brought them further back in time, and by the time they reached the ground floor, both Cali and Leven could look up and see the six floors they had passed on their way down. Their journey had brought them to the lowest floor, where the oldest books, skeletons of unknown origins, and other items lay categorized in perfect order.

Allowing the other two to take in the sight for a few moments, Xobos started toward what looked to be a well secured door at the end one of the floor. To either side, studies lay dormant and ready to welcome the next knowledge seekers. One would soon occupy their little group, but first, they had to make a stop to gather the items of study for the day. Those items were locked behind the secure door, opened by a handprint scanner on one side of the door. Whatever laid behind the vault door apparently held deep significance to the King.

When the other two had gathered behind Xobos, and before she opened the door to them, there was a warning that was necessary to be issued. “Do not touch a thing. I will gather what we have come here to study, and if you value your life, you will heed my warning.” She hated to speak that way to Cali, but what laid beyond the door was dangerous, deadly if not handled properly. Waiting for a few moments to let the message sink in, she slowly nodded, murmuring a quick, “alright then,” then turned to the handprint reader and placed her palm against it.

There was hiss of air that escaped from the door as it was unlocked. Slowly, creaks filling the space around them, the door opened to reveal the contents inside. Cubes of light, positioned in neat rows implanted in the walls, colored the darkness before them. Cali might know what the cubes were, but for Leven, the sight would be new and, perhaps, frightening.

The holocron vault had been opened.

 

[Adron Malvern]

CURIOSITY​

Tags: Xobos Yakieer Leven Jeyd Cali Ziiva ​

The Sith Lord was silent, even as the guests to the Library stood before him. He could sense them, fathom the emotions that fell from them, yet to him they may as well have been ghosts out of touch with their own realm. His eyes had hazed over as if purely possessed by the Dark Side and he continued to mumble his chant as information poured from the tomes in front of him directly into his mind. It was a skill he had only recently found prominence in, surging through the very oldest ties of a book or datapad to scour the information of the very being that fathered it. Although time made the information erode, it was still a much faster variant to actual reading.

One of the books slowly closed, floating back to the shelf as the Sith Lord finished connecting himself with it's contents. Again and again the action repeated itself before the final book was returned to the shelf. Adron let out a sigh from the exertion as the glow in his eyes finally began to die down. The final book that had been hovering in the air before him was taken into his hands, rather than returned to the shelf. He turned his eyes to the tome and took notice of the silver emblem printed on the book's cover. Two crossed pickaxes with a piece of Phrikite ore in the center of the two.

The Illyrian Mining Guild.

He gazed down at the image for a spare moment before the aged voice of the Grand Architect called out to him once again. "Are you satisfied, your Majesty?" The man asked, causing Adron to glance down at the man before turning the book to face the man.

"Tell me more about the Guild." He demanded, his tone suggesting a shift in his demeanor as a whole.

The older man let out an understanding grunt that sounded a bit defiant in nature, at least more defiant than the naturally compliant man had ever been before. "Ah, yes...The Mining Guild. What would you like to know?"

As Adron descended from the heights of the room, he held the book out to the man. "Everything you know."

"Well, your majesty there is actually not much to be known. At least, not much that can be counted as fact. What we do know is that the Mining Guild is as old or perhaps even older than the ancient line of Kings that once ruled Illyria. Since the beginning of time, our world has known a particular fancy for things revolving around mineral and stone, the only reason it has never been properly exploited is because of the planet's significantly low wealth due to our past King's isolationist mentality."

"But the Guild has always presided over the mining operations?" Adron asked, handing the book to the man who paused to consider his words before answering the King.

"Nothing is ever that simple here, my liege. You see, it is not so much so that they have always presided over planetary mining operations as they have always been a variable to be considered. At times they have held to a single province and in their prime they spanned a mining network controlling nearly half of the planet's mining operations." He responded.

The King nodded in understanding before bringing his hand up to sweep across his chin for a fleeting moment. "Summon three Knights of Literary, Historic, and Mining expertise. Particularly ones that are more familiar with the workings of the Mining Guild, current and past, fact and speculation. I would have a presentation on the Mining Guild's efforts in recent years before the end of the week."

This order caused the Grand Architect to bow his head in deferral to the king once again. "Of course, my liege. May I ask what has brought about this inquiry?"

The King turned his eyes towards the Holocron vault, feeling a notable surge in the Force as the walls were opened to those outside. He turned his eyes back to the man he was talking to, more concerned with the current business at hand. "I sense deception...and it is past time for the Mining Guild's actions to be brought to the light of the Crown." He passed by the Grand Architect, smoothing out the wrinkles he'd worked into his slate vest before making his way towards the Holocron Vault curiously. ​

​

 

[Leven Jeyd]

Location: Dragonne Palace, Azurine City, Illyria.
Tagging: Xobos Yakieer ~ Cali Ziiva ~ Adron Malvern

​

The small changeling had had a talent for making herself either the center of attention or nothing more than a shadow in a dark room whenever she pleased, until that mark had been placed upon her forearm to hinder many of her abilities. Now there was one that knew where she was every minute of every day, the thought alone made her feel caged and uneasy. Like an animal backed into a corner. Yet old habits died hard, and soon enough the Jester had fallen back into an unassuming silence and stopped parading herself like an annoying peacock in an attempt to annoy her Master.

Her eyes, the color of crystal and with the sharpness of a diamond blade, were locked on the floating shape of the King.

There was a heavy cautiousness in her, the dark presence making her skin crawl and bidding her own to come out. Her endurance against such forces had improved, and even if it hadn't, she'd learn to force herself to withstand them. It was clear enough by now that she would always be surrounded by them. Like a distrustful cat, she assessed the King, half hidden behind a bookshelf but perfectly aware that he could sense her just as easily as she could see him.

She watched the books close and go away, and only once the last one was closed did she prepare to leave - she had no intention of facing the King if it was not on her own terms, from far away and without direct interaction. However, her turning on her heel did not occur before she got a chance to see the emblem detailed on the cover. It was a very familiar symbol...How strange.

Deciding not to tarry there any longer, the changeling's nimble feet carried her back to the Zeltron and the Miraluka, catching up with them swiftly. As soon as some distance had been put between them and the monarch, her wariness seemed to dissipate, replaced once again with curiosity as she looked at everything around them. This same act was repeated when they reached their final destination, moving next to the lines of bookshelves and stands expecting everything like a puppy brought to a new place.

When Xobos turned to give her chilling warning, the changeling's face sharply turned towards the Knight's direction. Between the young girl's hands rested the boney hand of one of the skeletons there...Touching it. Just as she had allowed her restless fingers to wander almost on every surface available. There was no sly smile on her lips or fear on her eyes, just a blank, perplexed look that would seem to be asking the question 'What do you mean we can't touch the stuff?'

However, one thing did stand out to Leven. Xobos never warned Cali in this way, only her. This alone meant that there was more to this threat than just the boring and unimportant 'you'll break the things'. It made the Jester's interest perk up again, focusing once more on her Master instead of on...well, literally anything else. As the chamber opened, the changeling moved to Cali's side, almost stuck to it like an affectionate cat.

 

[Cali Ziiva]

Outfit: Outrageously Appropriate
Location: Dragonne Palace, Azurine City, Illyria

Blink, blink. Uh, okaaay. Don't mind the guy floating in mid-air surrounded by floating books muttering in Sith. That was perfectly normal. Nothing bad ever happened from something like that. Nope. Never seen any holovids suggesting otherwise. Nothing like, you know, a Krayt Dragon coming back to life. That was inconceivable.

So, at Xobos' urging, the Zeltron turned to follow the Knight to wherever it was they were going. Of course, silence wasn't her strong suit, so she took up humming a little tune. I'm cute. You're cute. We're cute together... All the while her eyes casually roamed about the place.

What? Well the dragon hadn't come back to life yet so why worry about it?

"Xoxo," the pink one sang, "why'd we take the slow, claustrophobic staircase? Could totally have jumped over the rail and landed with the same impact of jumping down a foot." Not that Cali actually minded. Round and around and around they'd gone. It'd started to grow a little repetitive and boring after the fifth floor, but they got off on the sxith so it really worked out quite well.

With a lean and a peek, Cali's eyes surveyed the things around them. "Lots of old stuff here. I've never really been into alchemy. I mean, why chant something to get a result not understanding why it worked only that it did, when you can use technology, get the same result, and understand why it worked? Then again," she swayed in place, "I do have a thing for mentally dissecting technology stuff and piecing it back together. I hear that's pretty rare. Science isn't though. Does take a lot of failure before you get a success the hard way though." Maybe Alchemists just weren't good with the Hard Sciences? Eh, no, they probably just liked making creepy creatures. Creepers!

Not long after, Cali peeked around the Miraluka to studied the vault's handprint scanner. "Oh, hey, that's fancy. Not one of those keypad types that I could bypass with a screwdriver, huh? Then again... You guys had someone properly inspect its installation? You would be appalled how easy it is to put something in the wrong place and make all that fancy security worthless." Like, maybe they didn't think about whether the bearer of the hand had to be the original owner, or alive, or not a change--

Cali turned to look over at Jester for a moment. Oh, that explains a lot. But they could have just put a password on it too. Jester wasn't telepathic far as Cali knew, so something they knew would totally work -- long as they kept it difficult to guess and didn't let anyone see or hear it.

Another sequence of blinks followed Xobos' super serious warning. Don't touch-- Cali turned to look over at Jester and her skelly-hand. Slowly, the Zeltron leaned in as Xobos turned toward the scanner and whispered, "I think she meant inside the super secret chamber of doom she's opening. Though," Cali flashed Jester a grin, "she'd probably like it if that extended to out here too."

"Hey," after the door opened and Cali got a peek inside, she called out, "I thought they were pyramids. Are any of them glowing? Do they actually glow different colors based on how selfless or selfish they were, are, uh, you know? How'd you guys get so many? Not like you buy them in a store. Would love to study one. Tried getting my hands on one before. Bet I could build one if I could just get a proper look at one."

What? Xobos hadn't entered yet, so Cali couldn't enter yet, so there was no danger. Except asking Xobos an endless list of questions about holocrons.

Tag: Xobos Yakieer | Leven Jeyd | Adron Malvern

 

[Xobos Yakieer]

Location: Illyria, Azurine City, Dragonne Palace.
Equipment: Illyria Knight Armor, Miralukan Eye Mask
Mental state: Silent.
Tags: | Leven Jeyd | Cali Ziiva | Adron Malvern |

Cali was…quite a special being. All of her inspections of the handprint scanner that kept the vault secure were enough to put a smile on Xobos’ face, even to shake her head. Of course, Adron had paid for, inspected, and even tested out the tightest of securities for one of the most secure rooms in the palace. If there was a way to get into the room, especially by the handprint pad, somebody would be losing their heads. Best to just chuckle, not let the cutie get her hands on the scanner and move on. No need for any head lopping today if Xobos could help it.

The vault before them contained holocrons from practically every era of sith history. Most, her master had collected through means unknown to her. A few she had been able to collect herself, through some reputable and some…..less than reputable sellers. Those were some of the most enjoyable missions she had ever been on, the tangible reward of being able to study the new additions to the collection alongside her master were…memorable, to say the least.

In the center of the room sat an old, wooden table, four chairs handcarved of the oldest Illyrian wood, and all sorts of devises meant for studying the holocrons. They wouldn’t be using the items today, as Xobos already had a holocron in mind for them to pull out, but perhaps one day Leven would procure one of her own, and they would find themselves back here once again.

Cali’s words drew Xobos’ attention, answering her question by first waving the pair of her guests inside the medium sized vault room. “All sith holocrons come in the pyramid form. It’s the jedi holocrons that are the cube formed.” She stared, beginning to walk around the room, gaze resting on each holocron for a moment before moving on. “Colors..that’s a tricky one. There are some colors you can only find from certain eras, such as the black from the earliest sith age, but other times…we’ve figured out they also can correspond with the health of the devise. Because of that, color can’t be used in most situations to determine the age of it. What we do instead..” There was a pause, then Xobos reached out, lifting the holocron of choice by the force. An older looking one, dark black metal, red markings etched into the metal, and glowing a deep shade of red, now floated a few inches above her outstretched hand. She then brought it over to other two, giving it a rotation with the force, allowing them to see the various markings.

“What helps instead is the markings. Once you’ve studied enough, or learn the languages, you can start to get an idea of their age, who made them, what information it contains, that sort of thing. This one..” Rotating it, so that the ‘base’ faced her. Taking a moment to read over the markings, she then began to speak again, gaze staying on the devise. “Is seemingly…a thousand years old or so. Predating it before the battle of Yavin by..200 years or so. Darth Juek created this one, along with a couple of others in the vault.” Allowing the pyramid shaped piece to rotate back to a normal place, she held it out toward her apprentice. “This is the one we’ll study today. Juek was known as something of a historian, and, from studying his other holocrons, seemingly created some very interesting uses for the force.”

Pulling it back, Xobos started toward the vault’s door, carrying the holocron with her. Now was the time for study, and it most certainly would be much more interesting than just a normal library day.

 

[Leven Jeyd]

Location: Dragonne Palace, Azurine City, Illyria.
Tagging: Xobos Yakieer ~ Cali Ziiva

​

A small smile stretched the young changeling's lips at Cali's words. Of course, the last part had been mostly disregarded and interpreted as an 'it is okay to continue meddling with the stuff that is outside of the chamber'. This did not mean Leven was no longer entertaining the idea of being equally explorative of whatever artifacts awaited within the chamber - after all, telling her not to do something was a sure fire way to ignite her desire to do exactly that. However, the menacing tone in Xobos' warning had had enough of an edge to make her reconsider, and her mind was currently occupied with something else.

She entered the vault with the two women, scanning her surroundings curiously and wondering why these...pyramid-shaped thingies were of any consequence. The Jester did not know what a holocron was, all she could see were fancy looking toys. Her eyes narrowed as Xobos picked one out and Cali asked her questions. Different shapes? Colors?...Selfish who? Nothing was making a lot of sense to her, something the little creature abhorred. She was sharp minded, intelligent like very few when not blinded by her capricious nature. Feeling lost was foreign and annoying.

The marking on it were pretty, at least. She could not understand them, and yet they seemed to want to speak to that dark power that was slowly but surely being cultivated within her. It was also still just a pretty piece of metal, in her eyes. How they would be able to get a history lesson out of it was something Leven couldn't picture, besides imagining Xobos going on a long rant about the history of this little pyramid and how that would be boring to death.

History seemed so very unimportant. The past was the past, and no matter how often people claimed to learn from their predecessors, history would repeat itself. People were always like that. Repetitive, disgustingly similar. Only creatures like It knew the true meaning of fluidity, of change. Her feet purposefully dragged as her mood soured. "I would rather read about the Mining Guild, like the King was." Her smooth, slithery voice mumbled - inadvertently revealing what she had seen earlier. Of course, her interest in the Mining Guild was owed to a very different and more mundane reason: it was no secret that the changeling was convinced there were restricted and abandonned tunnels and mines, she wished to find them and explore them.

 

[Xobos Yakieer]

Location: Illyria, Azurine City, Dragonne Palace.
Equipment: Illyria Knight Armor, Miralukan Eye Mask
Mental state: Silent.
Tags: | Leven Jeyd | Cali Ziiva |

There was just a moment where Xobos might’ve paused at what her apprentice had said. Her masked gaze shifted just slightly enough to look over her shoulder toward Leven, whom almost certainly did not realize the gravity of what she had just said. The mining guild seemed to be a topic of interest for her master, for whatever reason that might be. The Miraluka’s gaze shifted to slightly look upward, catching the last sight of her master flowing away, musing to herself underneath her breath as her mind began to refocus on the task at hand. “No…No I don’t think you do.”

The sight of the grand architect registered in her mind just as she reached for the handle of the private study. He was watching them. Not an unusual thing for the man, but at least Xobos knew that. Her guests might not, and the unnerving sight of the man glaring toward them from the staircase might be enough to give them pause. Xobos, knowing he was just protective of the vault, always had been during her time here in the palace, instead pressed forward into the study. Hopefully the others would soon do the same.

It was a simple thing, the study. Wooden table long enough to accommodate four people, with a hand carved chair each. The main lighting in the room came from the soft, warm light of the lamp in the middle of the table. This was a place of study, of thought, and was decorated to best do so. Xobos moved to take her seat at the head of the table, motioning for Cali and Leven to do the same, closing the door behind them with the force if one of them hadn’t already taken the task.

Setting the holocron on the table, her focus then shifted to her apprentice, once the girl had taken her seat. “I’m going to open this one. Later, I will teach you how to harness your power to do it as well.” The holocron was not the focus of the Miraluka. Breaths slowed, motions stilled, and for a moment, it might’ve seemed like the woman had fallen asleep in her chair. Slowly, however, her head tilted to one side, and the pyramid machine began to float in the air, ends rotating in place. The holocron was beginning to be opened, and Xobos was the maestro pulling all the strings.

The show was over quickly, and now the much different looking devise floated back down to the table. Silence followed again, and yet again, it was only momentary, for the gatekeepers holo soon was brought forth. Assumedly Darth Juek, the small visage before them showed a proud looking Nautolan, wirily glasses hanging to the bridge of his nose as he looked from person to person at the table, eventually settling on Xobos with a grin. “If it isn’t my favorite little Miraluka. It’s been..” A pause, presumably allowing the gatekeeper to check it’s databank. “Six months, twenty days, and eight hours since our last conversation. Far too long, I would say.”

A slight smile had made it’s way to the face of Xobos, regarding the visage with what seemed to be a happy expression. “Good to see you, Darth Juek. I have brought you some new students, ones that I think will have quite a few questions for someone such as yourself.” Turning to her companions, she motioned to the holocron before speaking to them, the holo patiently awaiting an inquiry. “This holocron version of Juek was programmed with the information about holocron contruction, sith histories…and lightsaber construction. You are free to ask him any question regarding those topics, but I will be here to help push the conversation in…constructive ways. Have at it.” The floor was now Cali’s and Leven’s. The holo continued to await a question, turning back and forth between the two newcomers.

 

[Leven Jeyd]

Location: Dragonne Palace, Azurine City, Illyria.
Tagging: Xobos Yakieer ~ Cali Ziiva

​

Begrudgingly, the young changeling followed. She took her place at the table, but did not yet move to sit herself in the chair. Instead, she simply stood there - eyes disinterested and hands almost itching for something to do, anything that would be less boring. It was as though she was holding on to the feeble end of the last and shortest straw of her patience before her feet decided to carry her away elsewhere. Anywhere else.

Metal pyramid.

Just a metal pyramid.

She could find better scraps in the nearest junkyard. Even the coin she had abandoned earlier seemed to be more interesting than this....And now Xobos was just sitting silently before it, unmoving, perhaps asleep. Was this some kind of prank? Was someone trying to trick the trickster? The frown on the child's brow seemed to deepen, arms crossed before her chest in mild irritation. Nothing was happening.

Until it did.

The pyramid began to float, this much did not impress the Jester. She had already seen many things float while spending time with Cali and Xobos. It was when the pyramid began unraveling itself that a dark eyebrow was curved up. Slowly, the arms folded across her chest began to fall back to her sides as the expression of irritation turned into one of interest. It was when the figure of a tiny Nautolan came into being that the changeling finally sat herself - crystal white eyes like daggers upon the little hologram.

The hologram knew the Miraluka. Jester had never heard a projection speak as...eloquently as this one. Something about it felt off, as if it was not just another program designed to do this thing or the other, limited and repetitive and boring. No, this was something else. "What is this?" She asked, although the question seemed to be more at herself than at the others. One of her hands shot forward, ready to paw at Juek's holographic form unless it was flicked away by either of the two women. "How did you get in there?" No hellos nor introductions, Leven immediately addressed the gatekeeper with inquisitive fervor.

Her gaze then momentarily shifted to Xobos, "Can I turn myself into a hologram?" She had never tried, and apparently this little Nautolan man had managed it. Of course, this was her only theory for the moment - for the Jester had no knowledge about holocrons nor the difference between a gatekeeper's consciousness and an actual being.

 

[Cali Ziiva]

The Zeltron hummed, acknowledging the Miraluka's responses to her questions. Her eyes, however, were on the holocrons. Especially the nearest ones. Both of her hands were clasped behind her back so Xobos didn't need to sweat blood worried her cutey was going to touch as many of them as she could before even a Sith could stop her. No, there was no need for such childish antics. Cali was a playful soul, not a reckless one.

In truth, however, she was... touching them. In a sense. From her personal research into the matter, some considered her talent to be from the Dark Side. Didn't make a whole lot of sense, really. Maybe something about twisting reality to one's will? Cali never paid it much attention. All she knew was mentally dismantling something without actually altering it was an incredibly useful ability. Made finding the root cause of a problem insanely easy. Not that she used it everytime -- it could make things too easy. Sometimes a mechanic or engineer wanted a little challenge to make sure they didn't get complacent.

When Xobos settled in at the table, Cali turned away from the collection and moved to take a seat. The 'cron the Miraluka had chosen had garnered the least attention by the pink woman so far. For the simple fact she was going to have all the remaining time in the room now to examine it up close.

Her pink mane flopped atop her head as the Zeltron regarded Jester. "Uh, technically? We can get a holorecorder and projector for you to play with whenever you'd like; but you can't be a hologram. It's... kinda like a moving picture." She paused to blink. "Well, I guess if you can make yourself largely translucent and blue you can look like a hologram." Might come in handy out in the field someday.

"Oh, so," Cali's eyes turned back to Dark Juek, "like, why do so many holocrons use a Variable Force Crystal capacitor instead of a Steady State Force Crystal capacitor? Does the need for an external source of Force Energy increase longevity, or is it some kind of...like...'connection' made between the one opening a holocron and the holocron itself? Like... a Force Bond of sorts!"

What? Wasn't like she knew everyone about holocrons just by looking at them, but she knew enough now after looking at them to ask plenty of technical questions.

Tag: Xobos Yakieer | Leven Jeyd

 

[Xobos Yakieer]

Location: Illyria, Azurine City, Dragonne Palace.
Equipment: Illyria Knight Armor, Miralukan Eye Mask
Mental state: Silent.
Tags: | Leven Jeyd | Cali Ziiva |

The surprised and curious look that took over her apprentice’s face was enough to bring a slightly satisfied look to Xobos’. Knowing she had the young girl’s attention now provided her with a sense of ease that this had been worth it, and even when the jester’s hand shot out to grab onto the holocron, her attention didn’t waver enough to allow it to be moved. Leven would feel as though the pyramid was stuck in place, plenty enough to deter her from trying anything further. When the questions started to pour in, Xobos had a momentary pause of contemplation, wondering whether she should allow Juek to answer or attempt to do so herself.

Thankfully, Cali was there to remind Xobos that she had brought along somewhat of a expert as well, and she settled back to allow the Zeltron the time to lay the groundwork for an answer. Once done, Xobos leaned forward, motioning to the miniature version of Darth Juek. “Coming from Zeltros, I know you’ve seen holograms before. This one is different, as you can tell. Like Cali said, you can’t be a hologram, but eventually you might become part of one of these.” The Nautolan seemingly sensed his opportunity to step in, gathering the attention of the changling then beginning. His knowledge on holocrons was legendary, and so was his ability to simplify information if needed. “I am what is known as a holocron gatekeeper. In essence, I part of what the sentient formerly known as Darth Juek once was. I am comprised of his knowledge on very certain topics, and can speak with the authority that he had on them.”

Sensing he may not be being clear enough, the Nautolan stepped forward, attempting to do so. “What I am is not Darth Juek. I am part of what he once was. That man died over 800 years ago. For you to become..something like me, or at least part of you, it would require you giving up a massive part of yourself when you die. But you would live on forward to teach inquisitive people such as yourself,” A pause, then a motion toward where Xobos was sitting. “And your master.” The gatekeeper turned on his heel, approaching the other side of the table with a wide grin starting to plaster his face. Cali’s quite..on the nose question obviously brought a sense of joy, or whatever could be described as so, to the gatekeeper. “As for you, Steady State Force Crystal Capacitors have a 5% worse chance of wearing down after 300 plus years of use. For a holocron, I’m sure you can understand how this would be extremely damaging. Gatekeepers could lose vast swaths of knowledge or be wiped out entirely. A Variable Force Crystal changes enough to be useful for thousands of years without burning itself out.”

Xobos had begun to just let the gatekeeper speak, knowing that both her apprentice and best companion would have more question. She sat back in her chair, giving an urging on look to Leven. Only way for the girl’s questions that were surely flooding her mind were to ask.

 

[Leven Jeyd]

Location: Dragonne Palace, Azurine City, Illyria.
Tagging: Xobos Yakieer ~ Cali Ziiva

​

Become a part? Of the...metal pyramid?

The very concept seemed strange in her thoughts - and had her mind not been as malleable and quick as her very body was, it would have been hard to grasp. The questions that began brewing, however, would promptly be answered by none other than the tiny man who now claimed to have been a part of a regular sized, non-holographic man. Cali's question also caught her attention, but the complexity of them resulted in a confused changeling which, as usual, counteracted confusion with disinterest and instead of trying to make sense out of the logistics of what she was seeing. There was a little man talking, that alone, to her, was more intriguing than the inner workings which allowed for this to occur.

The white eyes of the Jester were aflame with curiosity, drinking up every word that the Nautolan spoke in a manner she very rarely displayed. Indeed, the learning capacity of the child could only be described as gargantuan - but only when she had the will to learn. Leven was too intelligent for her own good, and this meant rarely paying attentions to others. After all, the only true rival in her eyes was the reflection in a mirror and the only needed council the whims she so often got. But that was slowly changing.

Her eyes drifted for a second to Xobos and then to Cali when Darth Juek mentioned something about becoming a holocron upon her death. An eyebrow was raised skeptically as though what the Nautolan had just said was nothing short of ridiculous. It could not die - would not die. Ever. At least such was the machination of her mind, her only defense against the ever looming presence of death was convincing herself it could not touch her.

Slowly but surely, Leven began to grow inquisitive. Now there was a certain sharpness to her presence which she didn't know yet how to hide. Her well-known game of cat and mouse had begun.

From what she understood, save for technicalities, one could say she was basically speaking to a dead Sith - and the changeling couldn't help but question what could a dead man have to teach. After all, they were dead. They had lost the game. "Gatekeeper keeps knowledge on certain topics. What knowledge does the Gatekeeper keep?" Her slithering voice had no troubles with tongue twisters. Eyes slightly narrowed and elbows on the table, she got even closer to Juek as though she was a viper and the nautolan a snake charmer.