When Mountains Sing - The Heavens Ring [Anastasia/Satara]

[Azrael]

Dathomir​

Singing Mountain Clan​

​

​

Like a faded ruby, the coloring of the world of the witches came into view once the ship ejected from the hyperspace lane between Manda'yaim and Dathomir. Neither truly an inviting sight, or anything out of a nightmare, the world seemed neutral in its color and ambiance. It was anything but neutral however, as it had been long since protected by the Mandalorians. That protection though was of the planet's security and sovereignty as the women and men on this crimson orb were well able to take care of themselves in any situation. Approaching the vector on which he'd make a landing, Azrael did a casual sweep of the system, to research the best place to make an entrance and land. The world itself boasted very little in technology, without so much as a star-port to properly land a craft and had instead been kept for it's natural beauty. A longstanding tradition of those that cared for this lush and fertile planet, it went unspoiled by the advancements other words laid claim to.

"We're here." Azrael said resting just recently into the cockpit's pilot chair. A few switches and toggles were thrown as the Ca'prudii inched across the chasm of space, watching as the muted red hues of the planet grew and shifted while they approached at leisurely pace. His passenger for the trip was one of the newest among the children of the Manda. Anastasia Rade had been a prisoner all her life - she had known nothing else except the horrendous treatments forced on her by the vicious Graug. Having rescued her from that planet, Azrael had spent some considerable time with his young sister, in attempting to help ease her into the transition of the Mando'ade. What he'd found however was that while she could wield a weapon, it was her soul that had been forever changed and shaped in that harran of a place. He knew that he could do for her what she would need most. Especially with those visions.

"Welcome to Dathomir Anastasia. The planet is part of Mandalorian space, and they are friendly with us." He almost bit his tongue on that part. The relationship with them was something strange and mystical. He never really had a chance to speak with them at length, and nor had he attempted that. He understood those with the Force well enough, but the Dathomiri were something else entirely. "The planet has two main clans between them. The Nightsisters of the dark, and their counterparts, the Witches of the Singing Mountain Clan." He offered as way of explanation while the stealth craft maneuvered and punched through that atmosphere like a whisper. Remnants of a rain shower slid over the hull of his sleek craft as he maneuvered through the rings of mountain formations searching for a place to land. "I think it would be best to start there. The Nightsisters are allies, but they are a little more malevolent in nature." At this point he was going off of conjecture.

Soon enough a clearing was spotted as the ship shifted, drawing it's aft around in a slow arc before the engines began their decent, lowering the craft into the open field below. The wind and water kicked up with the backlash of the exhaust ports before the landing gear touched the fertile soil and made purchase on the ground. From the cockpit, Azrael surveyed the land for a moment, making sure that they weren't landing in a Rancor bed. The Witches and Nightsisters controlled the creatures, but he wasn't about to become their meal just because he'd invaded their home. Un-clipping the harness from his seat, Azrael put the engines to rest, and motioned for Anastasia to follow him.

"The Witches don't use a great deal of technology, so we'll have to find them the old fashioned way." He admonished pulling out a leather nap-sack for the woman. She had been on Mandalore a few weeks time by now, and after careful thought, he'd decided that the best help he could offer the young woman was to meet other women who held similar gifts. "And take this, just in case." He offered up a shorter besked in a leather sheathe that she could wear around her waist. Azrael was of course wearing his beskar'gam and would continue to do so within the forest like environment of the planet. "I'll be with you the entire time." He added in to quell any nerves she might have been feeling. "Ready to meet a Witch?" He asked, as he un-clipped the buy'ce at his side and slid it over his head to complete the armor.

[member="Anastasia Rade"] | [member="Satara Hawk"]

 

[Anastasia Rade]

Anastasia was eternally grateful for everything that Azrael had done for her. He had not only rescued her from her hellish prison but had been taking care of her these past few weeks. The fact that he was helping her adjust to life spoke volumes on the type of person he was. He could have just dropped her off somewhere and never looked back. Instead he was teaching her everything she had missed out on these past fifteen years. She considered him an older brother and as such she worked hard to learn everything he taught her. She wanted to make him proud and show him that she wasn't hopeless. There was much to learn but she seemed to be picking up on Azrael's weapon lessons quickly.

During the day she could pretend to be a normal everyday happy girl with the occasional vision of the future. Anastasia very much enjoyed being out of her cell and being able to experience everything that she had been missing. The horrors of her life seemed to just fade away. It was only at days end when she curled in bed to sleep that the night terrors began. Sometimes they weren't too bad but more often than not she woke up in a cold sweat in the middle of the night screaming. This left her scared to close her eyes at night in fear of reliving one of her sessions again. She would snuggle the teddy bear she had until she passed out from exhaustion. It was rough but she managed and did the best she could not to disturb him too much.

She had always thought that she was alone when it came to her visions and other things she was 'cursed' with. She had come to believe she was a freak and that that these powers were a side affect of her treatments. As such she had done her best to hide them from Azrael however it hadn't been long till he noticed she was different. It was only than that she learned that she wasn't alone.There were others like her whom may be able to help her control what power she had.

During the trip there she couldn't help but be a little on edge. It was not only another new planet but she would be meeting someone like her. A million thoughts and questions were flowing through her brain but none really were answerable. She would just have to wait and see what transpired here.

The world of Dathomir was much different than what she had experienced this thus far. There was a lot of green and tall things which she had learned through books were trees. They must be in a forest of some kind. Gazing around in wonder at her surroundings she did her best not to touch anything. It was hard though as she really wanted to explore this beautiful place. She felt safe to do so with him around but at the same time she knew they had a purpose. There would be time for adventures later.

"Ready as I'll ever be. Do you think the witches will come to us?" She questioned as she placed the nap-sack over her shoulder. Placing the knife around her waist she glanced forward into the forest. If not, she wondered if he knew where to find them. If she had visions she could see it being possible that the witches already knew they were there. "Do you think they can really help me? If I can get a handle on the visions I think they could be useful. I could be useful and help others." If Anastasia had this thing she ought to try and utilize it.

[member="Satara Hawk"]
[member="Azrael"]

 

[Satara Hawk]

As soon as the vessel came down, the scouts spotted it. The whispers spread through the trees bit by bit, finally reaching the guards posted at the entrance to the clan's territory. One of the Witches rushed inside, finding one of the clan's council members which then set out to find the Clan Mother.

Satara was further inside, having a discussion with the blacksmith while she held one of the unfinished swords, quietly listening as he explained his technique for designing the particular one. The Elder Witch came to her side, whispering in her ear about the visit. Carefully, Satara returned the sword back on the table and thanked the blacksmith before leaving his area.

"Have a scout stop them on their trails. I'll be there shortly with Nadia," Ma'tra issued the order and headed to their clan's herd. Message passed along, one of the nearest scouts left her post and headed towards the landing craft. Already, she would be in full few to the strangers, armored with her spear.

Meanwhile, Satara found the herd mother and got on her back, riding towards the clearing. She needn't have worried of their visitors getting far, when the scout would halt them soon enough enough.

[member="Azrael"] | [member="Anastasia Rade"]

 

[Azrael]

Memories of the first time he had come to this planet remained with the Ord Mantell native. It had been dark then, and in a far darker part of the world, in both feeling and sight. The Mando'ade had come to the planet boasting a healthy populace, and had taken young Azrael along for that ride. That journey marking only the second planet Azrael had visited since he had left Mantell; the first being that of Mandalore. Back before he had been training, before he had crafted his beskar'gam, back before he really understood the Mandalorian way. He had stayed in the shadows, watching the confrontation of a barbarian challenge his Ori'vod, and the completely one-sided spar take no more than a minute. This world had been a source of danger and fright for him every since. He felt it more than he saw it, and it wasn't even a connection to the Force that worried the salvager. The meeting seemed to draw out grim creatures that road vicious Rancors as pets. It had been a lot to take in back then. Things had changed now, Azrael had changed. No longer was he the young tender-foot of the vode, but a respected and honored Field Marshal. The adopted son of the current Mand'alor had returned to his place to see in it the light, as he had once glimpsed the darkness.

Adjusting the leather straps on the nap-sack across Anastasia's shoulders and ensuring that the besked was safe and secure inside the leather sheathe, he offered a friendly smile as both hands lightly tapped her shoulders. A single nod was offered as he wagered that she was indeed ready to face this - to come to terms with what gifts she possessed. The Force was a lost concept on the Mandalorian, he wasn't aware of its presence, nor could he employ it. Other vode could that he knew well, but it wasn't part of his talents. Azrael had come to respect it however, and understand that with a tool like the Force a great many things that were otherwise impossible, could be accomplished. While there were those among the Mando'ade that could help Anastasia to some affect, it was the Witches of Dathomir that were truly the expects in the craft.

"Almost assuredly." Azrael commented. "They are a curious bunch, and they keep a weather eye for any visitors." He said, and as if on que, he looked through the viewport outside to see the emergence of one such Witch bearing a spear step into the clearing. Turning to his side, he flipped a few switches and activated the landing platform of his craft which slid down at an angle and ended, resting on the grassy knoll. Fresh air raced up into the ship as Azrael breathed deep. "The Witches are the best there are. While they are not Mandalorian as us, they are still our sisters." His right hand gently touched the underside of Anastasia's chin, having found a great fondness for her in the weeks he had been tending to her recovery. "Worry not Ana'ika, you will be in good hands." Her nickname for the salvager simply meant that she was his little sister, and himself, her big brother or Ori'vod. Turning to the aft, he began to step down the ramp with clipped steps upon the durasteel as they broke into open view before the standing sentry of the Witches.

"Greetings. I am Azrael, Field Marshal of the Mandalorian sky people. I seek an audience with your Clan Mother." His choice of wards were remembered from the first encounter he had on Dathomir. The Witches and Nightsisters had referred to them as the sky people, or iron skinned warriors. He felt it only appropriate to use the same description in his greeting to the sentry. A gentle coaxing of his right hand at the small of Anastasia's back remained present as he stepped forward to stand before the spear carrying Witch.

[member="Satara Hawk"] | [member="Anastasia Rade"]

 

[Anastasia Rade]

Anastasia held her breath a little as they were stopped by the scout. This was it, soon they would meet with the Clan mother. The young girl was a little scared but not really. She had been through hell and back and as such could handle this. Azrael wouldn't have brought her here if she was to become their slave. She trusted him more than anyone else in this galaxy. No, she was here to learn all she could from the witches. Understand the abilities she had so she could do some good with them. In time, she may even be able to control those visions that her captors had tried to. Something told her that couldn't be forced but came from within ones self. If she focused enough here she could be the best she could.

Since gaining freedom Azrael had been by her side as not only her protector but as a big brother. As such, she didn't really want to leave him. Training across town was one thing but on a whole different planet was another. It wasn't like she wouldn't see him again though. It wasn't as if she was going away forever. This was just like boarding school, whatever that was.

Unless spoken to Anastasia wouldn't speak. She had been trained well in that category by her captors. Questions as well as talking in general had always been a bad thing but she was slowly learning that wasn't exactly the case. It depended on the situation and in this situation she was going to let him do all the talking.

[member="Azrael"] [member="Satara Hawk"]

 

[Satara Hawk]

The scout halted once in contact with the foreigners. One introduced himself as Azrael, Field Marshal of the Mandalorians. He was seeking audience with her Clan mother. Her dark eyes darted from one figure to the next for a moment, in complete silence.

She possessed the understanding of the foreign language and could speak some of it but her own language was what she was most comfortable "Sky people. Ma'tra come. You stay." She merely spat out, her accent hard on each spoken word. After that, she remained perfect still, as if their guard that would not allow them from moving forward.

Satara was already on her way with Nadie, riding through the wilderness of the planet as the scout had passed along. The large animal soon would come to view, ridden by the female, rushing through the clearing. Some fifty or so meters, Nadie began to slow down, sliding through the grass to come to a full stop some feet away from the sky people.

Her head lowered right against the rancor's ear as she slowly whispered to her in Paecean, soothing the very alert animal. Nadie had discipline enough not to attack whom she didn't know but it didn't mean she trusted foreigners, especially those that hid behind their irons. Finally, the words reaching her, Nadie lowered her legs completely, lieing down on the grass. Satara jumped off then, straightening herself quickly.

"Welcome. I am Satara Hawk, Clan Mother of the Singing Mountain Clan. I understand that you have your traditions," she started, glancing at the taller figure, "but I would appreciate if you keep your faces revealed while among us." They welcomed all Mandalorians that arrived to Dathomir, always, and it was the least that could be done on their end.

[member="Azrael"] | [member="Anastasia Rade"]

 

[Azrael]

Armored steps pressed deep into the grasslands of the open clearing, creating weighty impressions within the glade as they both stood before the scout. The evidence of protection given by the right arm of the Mandalorian resting just against the small of Anastasia's back while the armored form remained facing the Witch before them. Over a year ago the half-blood had worn a simple cyan cloak which he had liberated from Ord Mantell when he had left the planet. His presence had been masked by the Mando'ade while he watched from the background and made no formal contact with the Witches of Nightsisters of the planet. He stood now in the charcoal grey and maroon of his beksar'gam, forming the figure of a Mandalorian Field Marshal. There was no quarter of guesswork left to the imagination, especially with the Mythosaur skull emblazoned on his left shoulder plate directly over his bionic arm. The crimson t-visor shone for a face, while he studied the command of the scout, and her allegiance of guarding whatever pathway may lead deeper into the territory of the Witches. Technically the planet was ruled by them and the Night Sisters, but the Mandalorians had no cause of concern for landing in peace with these women.

On her words, Azrael tilted his head up just slightly while the internal communications of his buy'ce began to pick up very slight seismic activity behind the scout itself. There was a thundering of power coming. Dulled considerably, he doubted if he'd even hear it without the aide of his helmet. Instinctively, the Mandalorian slid his hand away from Anastasia, only to just step forward and slightly in front of her. Only a few moments later after the protective action did the figure of a Rancor burst through the foliage and skid to a lumbering stop. He had seen these creatures before, and while he wasn't showing fear towards the creatures, they resonated a deeply heavy respect. The Witches kept the rancors as loving pets. He failed to see the attraction to the beasts, but he saw their power and their strength. They could eat a Mandalorian whole if the command were to be given. The tenderness that Satara showed to the beast certainly indicated that the two were as kindred of spirits as the two could possibly get. The Mandalorians did not ride creatures into battle, they rode war droids. Despite their grizzly culture, and family presence, there was little need for animals in their culture - save for food.

It was a hazy memory at best for Azrael to try and piece together, but the dark haired mother of the clan seemed to be familiar. He might have glanced her a time or two during his last trip here, but he knew he had never actually met her in any semblance of the word. She seemed young in her countenance and her voice. He had expected someone much older, and while she looked young - he saw the air of authority she commanded, as well as the ease of her speech. The request though was nothing but an easily formality. Both hands rose to the buy'ce unlatching it from the gorget and drawing it up and over his head. Grey eyes lifted while the helmet was clipped to his waist, and a small bow as given at the waist.

"Thank you for meeting us Satara. I am Azrael, Field Marshal to the Mand'alor." He offered up an introduction, turning his gaze slightly towards his companion. "This is Anastasia, my sister in the vode. We've come to seek your counsel on the matter of her gifts." His eyes shifted back to lock on the deep blue and electric green of her mismatched eyes, staring for a long moment, but keeping a pleasant tone and calm expression to his visage.

[member="Satara Hawk"] | [member="Anastasia Rade"]

 

[Anastasia Rade]

She couldn't hear the animal bounding though the forest so when he stepped in front of her she had been a little surprised and confused. Azrael's actions made sense once the creature bounded into view. Whatever this thing was, it was huge and quite intimidating. Even at that Anastasia couldn't help but be a little curious as to what that thing was which caused her to peek around him to get a better look. After years of being locked up she couldn't help but be curious of the galaxy around her.

The galaxy was a big new shiny thing to her which she wanted to explore. Like a toddler she wished to touch everything and press all the buttons just to see what happened. Being that she was eighteen and not three she couldn't get away with just anything. She had responsibilities and needed to learn to care for herself. After all, even if she didn't believe i or feel like one she was an adult. That phase would have been over by now had she had she had a childhood and not been locked in a cage. Anastasia would find a way to do both eventually.

As much as she wished to get a closer look at it she stood still and silent. Instead she made a mental note to ask later about the creature. It was magnificent as well as the way Satara seemed to control the creature. She didn't use force with it but all the same it seemed to obey.

Anastasia bowed slightly in respect as she was introduced trying not cring at the mention of her 'gifts'. She never saw them that way but was doing her best to change her point of view.

"I can see things. The future a lot of the time but sometimes events of the past or even what's happening now somewhere far from here. They are very random and confusing." She decided it was best to pipe up and explain what these gifts were or at least the one that stood out.

[member="Satara Hawk"]
[member="Azrael"]

 

[Satara Hawk]

Ma'tra waited for her request to be answered and once it did, she took in the appearance of the man and offered a nod. He introduced himself as Azrael, Field Master to the Mand'alor right after. "It's nice to meet you, Field Master. Out of curiosity, who is now Mand'alor?" The position seemed to be often altered among the their allies. She probably didn't know the person but, as she had pointed out, she was curious.

Next, he introduced her to Anastasia, his sister. While Azrael added in the vode to his statement, Satara was unfamiliar with the term but she remained quiet about it while he explained the reason of their arrival.

The girl spoke up then and the Clan mother glanced at her. She said she saw things. The future and sometimes events from the past or what was happened in the present. Random and very confusing. Satara nodded and smiled. "I see. I can imagine just how confusing it can be." While most Witches were not privy to certain events in Satara's life, she understood very much how confusing visions could be. While they were not her gift, Satara had experienced them herself while pregnant with her second child.

"Is this all you can do or have you experienced any other gifts?" Satara asked, merely curious. If Anastasia possessed the gift of sight, she was clearly gifted, the only question was whether it was still at this stage, where only her most powerful of talents had manifested of if there were others as well. And as she waited, Satara's mind formed the necessity of her daughter for this girl. If anyone could talk to Anastasia about the gift of sight, then it was certainly Kytarra. Satara, while having experienced it in the nine months of her pregnancy, had far too little experience to be a useful guide in visions themselves. But she could certainly help the girl find out more about herself.

[member="Azrael"] | [member="Anastasia Rade"]

 

[Azrael]

Something of a curiosity to know that a woman of Satara's statue played such a pivotal role in keeping a beast like the Rancor in check, all with just her presence. Any one of them could be easily devoured by the beast as a mere snack, while the lot of them could be considered a main course. That hardly though was reason for concern, as he noted just how obedient and gentle Nadia had been when letting Satara dismount and standing in silence nearby. Only the heavy breathing of the animal remained, not that it could be easily missed either way. The daylight stealing upon the land was a far cry the macabre nighttime setting in which he first laid eyes on the planet. This was far more welcoming than he had recalled, and he was already glad that his opinion of the planet had changed considering he was entrusting the Witches with the well-being of his little sister.

"A'lor is Gilamar of clan Skirata. Since the treaty with our worlds, he is the second successor to Mand'alor Monroe, the Liberator. He is also my adopted Father." The Field Marshal explained, having the faint trail of a smirk on his face - he enjoyed bragging on Gilamar, there was a great deal of respect he had for the man. Even the armor he wore bore all the hallmarks of Mandal Motor's founder and head engineer. His gaze traveled to his side as Anastasia spoke up and offered her insight on the 'gift' that he had mentioned. All the Field Marshal knew is what the blonde had told him, and the effects it had on her during her visions. He had seen nothing, and the concept was foreign to him as exactly what she had seen, or what it had felt like. That very reason is what led him to bring Anastasia to Dathomir to find a kindred spirit, and someone to help her deal with these visions.

"Is there a place that we can speak in a less formal setting Satara, perhaps show Anastasia a bit of this world?" He asked, interjecting the thought into the conversation. The blonde had been a slave since she was three years old, and he knew that she wanted to explore, to find out what this planet and others had to offer. He also felt better if they could have this discussion in a less awkward and less formal arrangement than standing before his ship. There was also the curious nature of the half-blood himself, in wanting to know where Anastasia might be staying should the Singing Mountain Clan accept to teach and train the young woman.

[member="Satara Hawk"] | [member="Anastasia Rade"]

 

[Anastasia Rade]

During her stay within the small cell Anastasia hadn't had want to explore any other gifts she may possess. It had been a struggle day to day just trying to get through the horrors of the prison. Since her gifts had seemed to interest her captors the young girl had done all she could to keep them hidden. Now though she wish she hadn't and had more to offer Satara in the way of her gifts. "It was found if I began very angry I could break things with my mind or toss things about the room. If there are other things I'm capable of I'm not yet aware of them," she added sheepishly as her gaze went to the ground for a moment before back up to their host. She hoped that this news didn't keep her from being accepted.

If Satara or any of the other witches could help her realize what her gifts were she was willing to open up. The witches, she believed wouldn't use the knowledge of her gifts to find new forms of torture for her but instead try to help her. Dare she say they may try to help her utilize those gifts in a positive fashion. Anastasia was willing to give it a whirl not only for herself but for Azrael. She wanted to make her elder brother proud of her and show him what she was made of. There was much more to her than sleepless nights and night terrors.

She couldn't help but perk up, her eyes widening, at the thought of getting a chance to explore this planet. The young blonde had been nowhere else besides Mandalore her whole life and she could already see that this planet was much different. Anastasia, just like a child, was very curious of the galaxy around her. She wanted to run about the forest and see all the amazing creatures she read about in books. It would also be nice to see where she could be living and perhaps meet other clan members.

[member="Azrael"]
[member="Satara Hawk"]

 

[Satara Hawk]

Satara received her answer but as she had suspected, it was mere curiosity. This Gilamar of Skirata, she had not met. Field Marshall informed her the man was the second successor of Monroe as well as his Pa'tre. She nodded. "You change your leaders quite a bit. Is there a sort of time frame they can possess power or something else?" Because Monroe was no the first Mand'alor the Witches had done business with, agreed terms. But she was the first woman and that made her people a tad bit more comfortable in working with her, even if none of them showed it, of course, giving their allies enough respect.

The girl noted that anger brought on her breaking things with her mind and tossing them around the room. She sighed. "Your emotions still control your powers. I will have to ask you not to mention this again when you're on this planet. I can help you move forward from it because applying negative emotions to use your gifts is frowned upon among the Witches. Nightisters welcome such emotions, as do the Sith," Satara explained, giving the girl a comparison with the outside world she could possibly understand better than their own terms. "Allyans have rules. One of them is to never give into their emotions. But not to worry, we all start somewhere. And we all... go places where we shouldn't sometimes. It's important to overcome them and remain strong." She offered a warm smile to the girl after speaking. She meant what she had said. She would help her through it. But it was good that she was told this right away, such piece of information was important if she was going to help her.

Less formal setting? Satara blinked for a moment and then nodded. "Very well, we can do that. However, this is not the formal setting. It would be formal if she was before my council being asked these questions as adult casters often are," Satara pointed out before turning on her heal and waving them to follow her. Satara moved a bit ahead, moving over to Nadie, whispering quietly into her hear in Paecean to walk before them, as she would lead the newcomers to the village. Nadie roared in a calm protest but as her large eye kept looking at Satara's face she mere huffed gently and rose to her feet, moving forward.

The Witch waited for the two to join her as the herd mother moved forward. Her head turned to Anastasia as she spoke to her directly: "Rancors are our friends, protectors and family. We care for them as they care for us. She would harm anyone only if she thought me or any of my children in danger, same as with her own herd, for no other reason." She paused, letting the girl process the information. "As part of your later training, you will come to meet them and they will come to accept you. A student of mine equals to a child of mine in Nadie's eyes. It's important that you two meet." But that would come later. The two of them had to get to know each other first so her rancor could know the newcomer was alright. There was of course the matter of the girls Trials, of which one included bonding with one of the animals. But there was time for that. For now, it was relevant for to know this much.

[member="Azrael"] | [member="Anastasia Rade"]

 

[Azrael]

From an outside perspective, Azrael certainly understood the thought of the Mand'alor changing faces and names so frequently might have led to that hypothesis. Even as a new initiate into the culture, he had found it odd that such short time had passed between the rise and fall of their sole ruler. However, once he was ingrained into the dealings of the Mandalorians, Azrael knew the reasons behind the decisions, and thus far none of them had been for a reason of retirement. Monroe had left due to a cruel trick played on her by the late, then revived, then late again Velok of the Sith. She had the burden of a seemingly infinite chasm of dark knowledge and power that radiated from her and within her. She couldn't justifiably lead her people, if she was so torn within herself. The next in line had been his first mentor, Verz Horak. He'd known very little about what had made the man tick, even less than he knew about Mia to be honest. Most of that had to do with his own personal quest that took the Field Marshal to the very edge of wild space for about eight months. In that passing of time, he'd learned that Horak had made a grave mistake that had nearly cost him his life, and was surplanted by Azrael's adopted Father, Gilamar. It was a short exchange of power, but always fraught with purpose.

"Not exactly. Normally a Mand'alor will reign until he or she is no longer able to lead, or has decided to retire. This last year has seen some very unusual movements among the A'lor of the past, and it is a burden that was passed to Gilamar and not so much an honor." It was a sad thing to think about, mainly because Azrael believed the the elder engineer of Mandal Motors was a strong and solid candidate for the position, and he represented everything that Mandalorians were. The reason of his choosing though was the regretful part, that one of their own had attempted to side with the very sect of people that had not more than a year prior laid waste to their home city with radioactive consequences. Among other crimes, that one was the most notable he'd heard about since he had arrived. He'd never spoken of it to anyone, and likely still wouldn't, but Azrael had his eye on that of Mand'alor - although he knew there was far more to learn and to understand before he could hope to fill those boots. It was a tall order, and he wasn't yet ready to take on that gamut of responsibility.

Gray eyes trailed from Satara to his own younger kin in the vode, laying his tongue silent while the clan mother addressed the gifts that Anastasia had brought to light. Telekinesis and visions were not something he could relate to. He understood that people could use these gifts, and he'd seen other strange wonders in the Galaxy thus far. He'd even seen someone so powerful as to conjure a storm made exclusively from the Force to decimate a Capital city and subdue a battle cruiser that was sent onto a collision course with the planet. The blonde to his right wasn't nearly that practiced or accomplished, but the same power to move literal and metaphorical mountains was the same power that rested inside her. Brows knit together as Satara warned of the darkness of emotional power, and that its path was more closely related to that of the dar'jetti or even the Nightsisters of this world. While Azrael did not utilize the Force, and had no controllable connection to it -- he did understand using his emotions. The culture of the Mandalorians reveled in their pride, and the thrill of battle. Their emotions were often what drove them into battle, and to succeed no matter the cost. It was a curious thought to the half-blood to douse the flames of passion in order to better temper your power. He however was certainly not an expert.

"My thanks." Azrael uttered as she took the queue and lead the two of them through the brush to a toe path that was carved out years ago to lead them further into the Singing Mountain Clan territory. He suspected most of this side of the world was their own, but he'd also not seen any lines drawn in the proverbial sand to indicate where it ended and where other clans began. His direction with the Ca'prudii was simply looking for a well lit clearing. The ship's ramp began to moan as a few commands were typed onto his right arm's vambrace, which triggered the ship to close the boarding ramp and seal up the ship for a later time of return. "Your offer to help Anastasia is very kind, you have my gratitude Satara - as her safety is very important to myself and the Mandalorians as a whole." He was trying to refrain from words that would be foreign to her. She didn't know Mando'a as much as he was unaware of her native tongue of Paecean. Basic seemed to work just fine though. The presence of his bionic left arm still gently touched to the blonde's back as he walked at her flank behind Satara and the large Rancor that stomped ahead of them. Although he could not aptly understand the subtle nuances of the stature and growls, he saw intelligence in the creature that was not a product of some dark sorcery, but a friendship and a bond.

[member="Anastasia Rade"] | [member="Satara Hawk"]

 

[Anastasia Rade]

Anastasia had always tried to hide her gifts and not use them as her captors had wanted her to. They had tried many different ways to get them to come out and one day she had just had enough of the torture they put her through. She had reacted in the only way that she knew how and that was negatively. It was never something that she had wanted to do, not for them at the very least. The glee in their eyes when she had broken the glass still made her sick to this day. She had no issues in the slightest learning to use her gifts without her emotions. In fact, Anastasia preferred it.

What caught her attention more than anything was that Satara stated that she could help her which had to mean that she was willing to teach her. The young woman was more than grateful for the assistance and she would do her best to learn all she could. Anastasia already had questions and they hadn’t even begun yet. What were the rules of the Allyans? Were witches considered Allyans? She wouldn’t ask for she was sure within time all her questions would be answered.

When it came to the galaxy the young girl was very native. It was only now that she was learning all that was out there. What it meant to actually be a person and the basics of life. She wouldn't let the lack of knowing things about the galaxy keep Anastasia from growing as a person. She was a survivor, not a victim.

This was better than anything she could imagine. Ever since she had been rescued people had been nothing but nice to her. They reached out to assist her during this overwhelming transition. She had dreamed of many different things when thought of the outside world. "Thank you so very much for your offer to train me."

Rancor, so that was what this huge creature was. She could see why they were considered protecters and why one would wish to be their friend. Anastasia looked forward to meeting one later on during her training. There were so many questions however she wasn't sure now was the time or place for all of those.

As they walked she couldn't help but glance around at the wonders of this planet. She had known it was different from the one planet that she had been on but how much she hadn't been sure of until now. It was much greener with different plants, and trees. The sounds caused her to head to quickly turn in the direction it came from in hopes of spotting said creature. Anastasia was most of the time disappointed that there was nothing there or at least not anything she could see.

The curious child inside her that had been locked away all these years wished to run free and explore the wonders of the forest. Anastasia however was an adult now and as such stayed in step with the others.

[member="Azrael"]
[member="Satara Hawk"]

 

[Satara Hawk]

[member="Azrael"] explained how a Mand'alor usually remained which made sense, making her nod. That was what she expected, yes. However, he described the last year as having seen very unusual movements among the A'lor of the planet and the burden had been passed to this Gilamar. She nodded once more. "So, an anomaly, I see. That is what I would expect from a leader's reign." Satara knew how it usually went, but she couldn't really compare it to her. Satara had ruled for nearly a century before she passed along to her eldest daughter and the reigns had been passed to a number of her descendants until dark clouds covered the clans and all had been lost, opting the Clan to demand for her return. That was the exception, not the rule though. Before her Clan Mothers remained in power until they died or were overthrown and exiled.

The man thanked her for offering to help [member="Anastasia Rade"] to which Satara offered a small smile. "You needn't worry about her. She will be safe among the Witches. Even these times are far better to join then they were before." Things were changing, Witches and Nightsisters were coming to see a common enemy. The Clan Mothers were working together as a unit. Outsiders would perhaps consider it a governing party but to the Witches, it was a Council. No more, no less.

Returning her attention to the girl, she heard her thanks as well. Her smile to Anastasia was much warmer than it was for the man. "Now, there's a bit of walking to do before we get to the stronghold. So, if you have any questions, now is the time to ask them." She expected more of them now, though others would follow in time as well. Satara believed in a healthy curiosity and always welcomed her students to ask them. Of course, she didn't expect Anastasia to know such a thing unless being told. For now, she wanted to hear those first, spawned from the girl's arrival. There would be time for them to get to know each other later.

 

[Azrael]

Ever since leaving his birth world of Ord Mantell, Azrael had experienced planets of varying climates and topography. Some worlds were arid, like Mantell, and others were far more flourishing in the life that peppered their landscape. Dathomir was such a rich and thriving world - and despite however many inhabitants it boasted, the flora and fauna seemed to be undisturbed and richly thriving. Mandalore was a beauty to behold, though mostly for the vode. It wasn't exactly the most lush and beautiful to look at from an aesthetic perspective, but the true beauty of it came in the longevity of it's control, and what it meant to the Mandalorian way of life. The thick foliage they passed with every step was an evidence of how much the Witches and the Nightsisters cared for this world, leaving it unspoiled by the use of factories and other technological advancements. Everything was natural, like the branches that slid across Azrael's armor as they pressed forward.

"I was here once, over a standard year ago. My time with the Mandalorians had just begun when Manda'lor the Liberator reinforced the pact with your people. However, I believe I witnessed the Nightsisters far more than I did of your clan, Satara. How are your relations between each other?" Azrael didn't understand a divided culture so seperate in their own beliefs and living on the same planet. To him and the Mandalorians, there was no polar opposite living among them. While they were all individuals, they were all from one unified family. They had their own respective clans, but the Mandalorians were a complete and cohesive culture that radiated the same virtues and rugged sense of honor throughout all clans and persons. He was curious to know how the two seemed to live in a balance, or if there was constant strife from long held ideals that shaped their respective cultures.

He knew a few things about the Dathomir ways, among them chiefly was their matriarchal society. A planet ruled by the women, who enslaved the men and mated with them as they saw fit. The whispers of such practices were even mentioned during his last visit to the planet. Several of the Nightsisters had amused themselves in thinly veiled whispers about the prospects of the iron sky people, and which ones seemed to be the best for breeding stock. Even one of their own slaves had challenged his Ori'vod; Ordo, to a duel. Ordo easily bested the brute and embarrassed him, but the show of loyalty was a unique aspect of what he had surveyed. Azrael had only hinted on the concept of love in a romantic sense on Ord Mantell. He had recently even buried the first girl he could of considered being his mate, though under vastly different circumstances than the mating he'd heard about.

His priorities however were not as deeply ingrained into the culture of the witches as his little sister was likely to be. He had brought her here to understand her gifts, to harness and control them. He knew the Witches would be able to assist in this feat, but he wasn't entirely convinced that she wouldn't become a Witch in full. Although the Mandalorians were the protectors of outside cosmic threats to the planet, the Witches were not Mandalorians. It was a choice however, one that the Manda freely gave to become a Mandalorian, and if that is what Anastasia wanted after being trained here - then she would be just as welcome. It wouldn't separate him one way or another from her, but he still hoped in silent that she'd choose the Mandalorian way of life, despite the training she'd find here.

[member="Satara Hawk"] | [member="Anastasia Rade"]

 

[Anastasia Rade]

She had a million questions of course just Anastasia hadn't know if it was alright to ask. Her past experiences had shown to her that questions were bad. It was better to just do as one was told or at least that's was best when she had been a slave. Things were different now and she was expected to ask questions and do things she wasn't used to as if if was natural. Anastasia tried as she only wished to fit in though in this case she was rather excited she could.

"Is Allyans another name for witches? What are the rules?" If there were rules, she wished to know what they were so she may follow them. If there was one thing she was good at it was following rules. Unless there was a good reason for it, she never stepped out of line. Anastasia had always known her place but now things were different very different.

The fresh air, the sounds, the greenery were all very new to her. It was hard for her to describe the way she felt out here. It was just beautiful and she felt free for once in her life. The further they traveled the more there was to see and experience. It was a little overwhelming but she loved it all the same. The only thing that she wished that she could do was stop and take a moment to fully appreciate the beauty that surrounded her. There would be time later hopefully to do just that.

"If we don't use our emotions to tap into our abilities, what do we use? How does that work?" She had been around many Sith and they all used emotions to get what they want. The more emotional, angry they became the more powerful they were. The idea you could be powerful without becoming full of hatred was one she liked.

Anastasia didn't want to live in the past but step into the future which for her seemed bright. She hadn't had a childhood to speak if but that didn't mean she couldn't grow and evolve as an adult. She wouldn't allow what had happened to her control her.

"Would I get to stay here during my training?" She figured the answer to be yes but she wanted to check on that. If she did, she would have lots of time to explore this world.

[member="Satara Hawk"] [member="Azrael"]

 

[Satara Hawk]

He'd been here less than a year ago? Satara paused for a moment and glanced back, while [member="Azrael"] continued to tell her about the visit and seeing more of the Nightsisters than the Allyans. Then proceeded to ask just the right question. The Witch glanced a head for a bit as she continued walking walking. "We... have a long history with them, which is not so good. Especially with one of their subclans which resides in our mountain. There is a lot of bad blood and most Witches still can't let the past go." It was all basic knowledge. Satara knew how to provide an answer without getting too deep into a topic, especially one that involved them and the Spider Clan. Too much blood had been shed and so many had been lost due to that feud so speaking of it in such a way was easier for Satara, especially when she had been one o the Witches wanting to leave the past in the past and focus on the future.

The questions of the young Initiate began then, making Satara shift her attention to [member="Anastasia Rade"]. She asked the right questions to start with. "Yes, we are Allyans. The first clan mother of all the Witches was called Allya. She was an exiled Jedi Knight who taught us about magic, discovered a different way from her own teachings with the Force for us to utilize it best to our capabilities," she explained and fell silent briefly as her mind set to recall the rules Anastasia had asked for. "Upon her death, she left us a legacy - The Book of Law, meant to be a moral guide to teach us safe ways to use our magic. On the beginning of this book, she wrote: "Daughters of Allya. Learn these words and learn them well, for they are the foundations that will increase your strength and keep you safe from harm." These words were sacred to all the Witches that still followed the code of the Ma'tra. Satara quoted it slowly for Anastasia to process it all.

"Those who suffer emotion will never enjoy peace. Those who choose ingorence will never know their own greatness. Those who yield to passion will fail to dominate. Those who fear death will never achieve pure power..." The pillers of laws. By now, Satara knew that it was based on some parts on the Jedi Code, having lived among them and by their rules but that was irrelevant now. Those were their rules. "Never forget that your magic must always be used wisely. Never concede to evil lest you be consumed by it." Once again, Satara paid little attention to the male company in their presence, not on purpose though. "Those are our laws. You needn't worry about it now. You'll see them again through your teachings. In time, they will become your laws and they will easily become part of your mind."

For a while after, she continued walking with the two in silence before the girl thought of more questions for her. If they didn't use emotions, what did they use? Satara smiled. "It's true, in the beginning, it will seem as though emotions make you more powerful. But young Witches often forget that the power inside you. You have the potential to achieve all of it through hard work. It's you, your inner strength, your potential that will drive you to places you need to be." She too had gone down that parth, experienced where emotions, especially those dark ones, could take her but it was not the answer. It was never the answer.

The biggest surprise of all the questions though, was the last question. Where would she be during her training? "With us of course," Satara told her, letting a wide smile spread across her face. "It would silly if you had travel a lot for your training and it would waste plenty of precious time." There was of course also the factor of age. Anastasia was an adult or near that age. Witches started at the ages of four to six, depending on their potential and their trainer's decision. Starting of someone of such age was a tad bit risky, more so due to the already formed opinions and beliefs than anything else. There would be time to discuss that though before her Trial by Fire.

 

[Azrael]

Holding a grudge was something that the Mandalorians were known for. The phrase often spoken by their culture that a Mandalorian never forgets was not about some innate ability to recall every detail like an eidetic memory would afford; but rather a till death pledge to never forget an enemy, or an act of one. While their was bad blood between the Nightsisters and the Witches, if the Mandalorians had a present beef with anyone on their planet, it would be quickly resolved - or escalate into a civil war. It had been done in the past, most notably with the sect known as Deathwatch. While the women on this planet had a feud described as somewhat ancient, the Mandalorians way of dealing with such animosity was far more brutal, but in their eyes -- wholly efficient. Perhaps though, the situation here was different, perhaps the Nightsisters were a needed part of the whole and couldn't simply be extinguished as they remained part of the bigger picture. While he was curious, he was also not so brazen to simply suggest genocide to the clan mother. He doubted it would go over well, and would most likely hinder Anastasia's progress. He was here for her, not for himself.


"Then we chose the right path Ana'ika." Azrael said to his little sister beside him while they moved through the foliage and forest of the Witches territory. He knew that the most important part of the conversation was between Anastasia and Satara, he was simply interjecting for the sake of curiosity. The Field Marshal cared a great deal for the former slave at his side. She was the first person he'd ever introduced to the Mandalorians. He'd rescued her brother as well, but he didn't have the connection with Bane as he did with her. Aedan Miles; a trusted member of the vode was mentoring the more brutish and anger prone of the siblings. In echoed response to Satara's affirmation that she'd be staying here on Dathomir during her initial training, Azrael gave a nod in agreement. "Yaim is not far away from here, and I'll be checking in often until Satara and her clan believe that you are ready to expand your horizons with the control you'll gain here." Azrael assured the blond while they walked at each other's flanks behind the raven haired woman before them.


"I have seen your kin fight beside us, Satara. I am ever impressed by their tenacity and spirit. While I do not understand your ways, or have a connection to the Force, the Witches have always been a welcome sight among our own." He offered a compliment to the clan mother while they kept moving. He was somewhat curious how long this journey actually was. Assuming she had ridden Nadie for the extent of the path, he was estimating what it would be on foot. "With what you've said of the origins, I'm curious when the necessity came for the Witches to learn to be present in combat." The genesis of the Witches seemed tied into a very peaceful providence, and the idea that they would become respected warriors with their magic was a turn he didn't quite understand. Azrael could only assume it was born out of necessity.

[member="Satara Hawk"] | [member="Anastasia Rade"]

 

[Anastasia Rade]

She listened intently as all of her questions were answered which in turned caused more questions to pop into her head. It was nice for once in her life to be able to ask questions without being yelled at or hit. Questions she was finding were a good thing and very much encouraged. It was how one learned when not reading from a book of course and she had no trouble doing either. Anastasia was young and native and as such would take any help that she could get.

"Magic? Like spells? So is there than a book of spells?" She could only assume there was that held spells that would teach one anything they wished to learn. Anastasia didn't expect that learning spells to be easy, she expected to train hard. She found that anything worth having wasn't easy and this was something she not only wanted but needed. The young oracle had always thought herself cursed and nothing more than a freak show. She wanted to be able to understand herself and what she had hidden within. She already was aware that she could see the future however by what had been spoken here seemed perhaps there was more.

Evil corrupts absolutely. She saw that first hand everyday of her life. Her captors had been nothing but evil and used what they had at their disposal to do as they pleased. They saw no value in a life and in fact seemed to enjoy playing with their slaves. They had let their power go to their head and she had vowed long ago to not be like them. She wanted to use her power to help those whom were without hope and needed a helping her. She never wished to be like the monsters whom had taken her and would work hard to keep herself in check.

It was going to be weird not having him around everyday and she would miss him. She was glad to hear that he would be checking up on her. When he came to visit she would be able to show him all that she had learned. He meant a lot to her and as such wanted to make him proud. Show him that bringing her here was the right thing to do and that she wasn't a lost cause. "You better," she grinned turning towards him. "I'm going to miss you but when you visit I can show you everything I have learned."

[member="Satara Hawk"]
[member="Azrael"]