Junction A New Dawn | ME and THR Junction of Antar and TBD

[Defunct]

A NEW DAWN
… a Royal Naboo Republic and Mandalorian Empire Story

​

Once, the Royal Naboo Republic saw little difference between one Mand'alor and the next. The rise of the Neo-Crusaders had darkened Mandalorian armor with the stain of raids, and Naboo, ever a sanctuary of culture and diplomacy, watched warily from afar. So when a new leader claimed the iron crown of Mandalore, there was hesitation. There was doubt.

But something changed.

The Mand'alor, called the Iron, did not come with conquest on his tongue. He opened his halls instead. And in the Court of Iron, beneath the rising towers of Sundari, the first delegation from Naboo arrived. There, surrounded by stone and firelight, a promise was made. War was not inevitable. A different future could be forged.

Now the day of that promise has come.

Across the stars, two worlds prepare.

On Mandalore, within the fortified grandeur of the Court of Iron, a second Naboo delegation arrives. This time, they are led by Her Majesty herself. She walks the crimson halls with diplomats and defenders at her side. There will be no illusions. This is not yet an alliance. This is not yet friendship. But it is something stronger than distance. It is the will to understand. Within those ancient chambers, words will be exchanged that may reshape the future of the Outer Rim.

And on New Cov, far from the polished halls of diplomacy, another meeting begins.

Here, in the thick wilderness of a jungle world too dangerous for open settlement, warriors gather. Mandalorians clad in beskar. Soldiers and nobles of the Republic clad in ceremonial steel. No lives will be taken today. But pride will be tested. Prowess will be measured. An old fortress stands between them. The Republic will defend. Mandalore will assault. Blasters will fire, blades will ring, but no blood will be spilled. The battle is one of discipline and strength.

These two gatherings, one of parley and one of trial, are bound by a single truth.

If the Mandalorian Empire and the Royal Naboo Republic are to walk forward, it must be with open eyes and open hands. Strength alone will not shape their future. But through strength, and through understanding, they may yet find common ground.

Let the words begin. Let the warriors move. Let the future be written not in blood, but in bond.

OBJECTIVE I: THE PATH OF PARLEY
Location: The Court of Iron, Sundari, Mandalore
​

The statues of Mand’alors past stand silent and tall, casting long shadows across the polished stone and scarlet light.

Here, in the heart of Sundari, the promise of diplomacy is put to the test. The Royal Naboo Republic has arrived in full—their monarch among them—to meet with the Mand’alor and his advisors face to face. It is a moment heavy with history. Shadows of past wars linger in the margins, and the scars of the Neo-Crusader assault are not so easily forgotten. But this is not a gathering of enemies. It is a conversation between nations who might yet find strength in one another. Agreements will be proposed. Cultural bridges will be explored. Tensions may rise. Bonds may form. This is where the future is shaped not by firepower, but by conviction, respect, and vision.

Diplomatic | Political negotiation, cultural exchange, tension and trust building, character-driven dialogue, and defining the future of two nations.

OBJECTIVE II: THE PATH OF TRIALS
Location: Jungle Expanse, Fortress Vale, New Cov
​

There is no throne here. Only the wild.

​

Deep within the deadly jungles of New Cov lies an ancient fortress, long abandoned, now chosen for a different kind of conflict. The Royal Naboo Republic has taken up defensive positions within its walls. The Mandalorian Empire comes to test them. This is no war. Lethal force is prohibited. But the challenge is real.

Mandalorians will strike with precision and ferocity. The Naboo will defend with strategy and resolve. No deaths. No true enemy. Only honor on the line. It is a proving ground. A rite of warriors. A chance to learn one another not through politics, but through skill, through endurance, through sweat and struggle beneath the jungle canopy.

Non-Lethal PvP | Combat, siege tactics, teamwork under pressure, proving strength through honorable battle.​

 

[Annis Riyaré]

OBJECTIVE 1 - THE WAY OF PARLEY

Annis Riyaré, Countess of Lopenthé, Senator of Naboo

Location: The court of Iron
Gear: Voidston bracelet
Tag:

Spoiler: wearing

The graceful senator of Naboo was amongst those that championed the cause of these mandalorians and as such it made sense for her to attend today. She walked along with one of her advisors whispering into her ear. They had made a joke between them earlier that Annis might marry the Mand'alor and cement a faction relationship in that manner, it made her feel like she was amongst the royal houses of old naboo.

He had also pointed out that a new person declares themselves Mand'alor with the sureness and regularity that the sun comes up at dawn. She knew this to be true, but respect for their culture, at least feigned respect was a commodity that cost nothing so she would not allow that discussion to continue, they were dealing with this Mand'alor, he was an ally, he held Mandalore and he had enough support to give him power and that was all that really mattered.

She would like to approach Aether Verd personally and her aides had ensured this was passed onto his offices, she had even brought a small gift, two candelabra, made of purest Beskar that had been found amongst her families collection. He would probably melt them down, but the gift of the perculiarly loved metal was intended to by symbolic anyway.

 

[Raigryn Vayd]

OBJECTIVE I: THE PATH OF PARLEY
Location: The Court of Iron, Sundari, Mandalore

The sleek Naboo vessel was a silver dagger sliding through the atmosphere. Raigryn remained on the periphery of the royal entourage.

He was old and troublesome and frequently rude, but he was also a seasoned diplomat and former military leader.

Raigryn wore colorful robes, as was typical on Naboo. Within those he had concealed a small flask. Among his troublesome traits was a tenancy to drink too much. A little shot of fine brandy for courage.

They were soon on the ground and walking into the Court of Iron. Iron, they would attach their love of metal into every title and moniker.

 

[Dominique Vexx]

OBJECTIVE I : THE PATH OF PARLEY
Court of Iron, Sundari, Mandalore

"Beskar?" Dominique didn't even look over at the attendants on either side as she strode from the landing area.

Those that had been polishing the final list of sought after items and negotiation terms jibbered. They waxed on about the steel's uses, and the high price that could be obtained for it. Its value was never in question. Its importance as a material or good being ferried about the galaxy undeniable for military applications -- though she'd heard a certain Senator of Naboo had candelabras made of it.

"No." The lilac-haired woman sighed and with a stroke of her finger removed it from the list. "Sometimes," Vexx spoke more to herself than any present, "having too many analysts can be detrimental. The cultural division clearly indicates in their report the importance beskar holds to them." A follow-up argument about certain Mandalorians could already be felt formulating in their minds. "Especially this one. I daresay this Mand'alor of Iron very nearly started a war over that former Mawite." Out of the corner of her eye she saw confusion cloud their faces. Dominique gave the smallest shake of her head before she shoved the pad into the chest of the one on her right. Perhaps they'd bother reading the report now.

It was possible, however. But Dominique expected they'd ask a Queen's ransom for it. An opportunity to keep an ear open for, anyways; perhaps the circumstances would be different if proper compensation were involved. Even if it were, Dominique wasn't going to have all those remote drooling over the prospect -- if it happened it happened, if it did not... they'd draft a new strategy.

Her radiant, golden eyes spied the delegation assembling ready to proceed inside. Dominique smiled and made a last check of her coat, which prompted the attendants to fuss and affirm her hair looked perfect, and her poised statuesque. One should look their best for the Mandalorians. Just because they wore armor all the time didn't mean their visual senses were duller.

Annis Riyaré | Raigryn Vayd | OPEN​

 

[Lorn Reingard]

OBJ II​

Lorn stood atop the crumbling wall of the ancient fortress, the jungle breathing below him like some titanic beast just out of sight. Dense canopies stretched in every direction, a riot of greens and shadows, pierced here and there by shafts of gold light. He'd been watching for hours, ever since the mists began to pull back from the treetops, revealing the battlefield that wasn't really a battlefield. Not this time.

He hated that. The not really part.

The air was thick, wet and heavy with a silence that wasn't silence at all, just the hush between movements. Birds cried out in strange dialects, and something enormous hissed deep in the undergrowth. Somewhere out there, Mandalorians waited. Planning. Measuring. The thought made his jaw clench.

He wasn't here to kill. He wasn't even here to win. Not officially. But deep in his bones he wanted to prove something. That the Republic could hold its own against these warriors bred for battle. That diplomacy didn't mean weakness. That elegance and honor didn't have to mean fragility.

His saber rested on his hip, dormant but charged. His soldiers were below, spread through the fortress like nerves through a spine. Every route mapped, every ambush laid. They were ready.

Lorn didn't speak. He just kept watching the tree line, calm and still, but not passive. Never that. His kind eyes scanned with the precision of someone who had seen too much, lost too much, and knew better than to believe promises at face value.

He wanted to win.

Not to humiliate them. Not even to dominate.

He wanted them to understand. The Republic could fight. And more dangerously, it chose not to.

@OPEN​

 

[Aurelian Veruna]

Aurelian entered the Court of Iron like a man strolling into a myth.

The others pressed forward, capes drawn, words rehearsed, entourages tidy and precise, but he drifted, caught for a moment between the scarlet glow and the monoliths of history that lined the hall. The statues of Mand'alors past loomed like guardians, grim-faced and unyielding, every one of them carved from legend and trauma. Each stood with purpose: hands on hilts, arms crossed, visors blank and watchful. Mandalore, it seemed, knew how to build a memory that could stare you down.

Aurelian tilted his head. His hair fell into his eyes, catching a shard of the firelight. He didn't brush it away.

He wore Naboo finery with a casual arrogance, silks tailored to accentuate a frame built for duels and dances alike, a ceremonial blade slung low on his hip like it might actually be used. His gaze flicked from one iron giant to the next, and a smirk curled at the corner of his mouth, just barely.

"This is either the tomb of kings or a particularly theatrical trap," he muttered, too low for most to hear. "Let's see which."

He trailed his fingers briefly along the base of one statue. Cold. Old. Solid. The kind of legacy that didn't flinch.

His curiosity, for now, outweighed his doubts.

Annis Riyaré | Raigryn Vayd | Dominique Vexx | @OPEN​

 

[Aether Verd]

Assets: Beskar'gam | Basilisk
Darksaber | Resolute Dawn​

COURT OF IRON - MANDALORE

The throne of Mandalore was not built for comfort. Iron and obsidian, shaped by heat and history, it rose from the dais like a blade driven into the heart of the Court itself. And upon it, still as a statue yet watchful as any hunter, sat the Mand’alor.

Aether Verd did not rise.

From his seat, the Court stretched outward in sacred geometry: stone and steel, scarlet banners, and the long crimson carpet that led from throne to threshold. Down its length marched the delegation from Naboo, their finery gleaming in the firelight. They passed between lines of Supercommandos, each bearing a spear of beskar longer than a man was tall. The warriors stood silent, unmoving, more ritual than threat.

Behind them loomed the past.

Statues of the Mand’alors of old, carved in iron and stone, lined the chamber like sentinels. Founders. Crusaders. Liberators. Even the ones whose names were spoken with gritted teeth. History, in Mandalore, was not erased. It was displayed, judged not by omission, but by presence.

When the final footstep fell and the chamber came to stillness, Aether finally spoke. His voice was not loud, but it filled the Court.

“Welcome to Mandalore.”

A pause, heavy with meaning.

“And for those whose boots have tread this stone before… welcome back.”

He let his visor drift across the gathered delegation, not with suspicion, but weight. As if measuring steel by the sound it made in the forge.

Then, subtly, he inclined his head toward one among them. Not a bow. A nod.

To the Senator of Naboo, who had made herself known long before her ship touched dirt. The twin candelabras her aides bore were unmistakable. Not gaudy, not overplayed: intentional. And her name had been on his desk before her face appeared beneath his roof.

Mandalore remembered.

But for now, he said nothing more. Let them settle. Let the echoes die down. The Court would not rush what mattered.​

Aurelian Veruna , Annis Riyaré , Raigryn Vayd , Dominique Vexx , Runi Kuryida , Aselia Verd , Ze'bast Verd , Kyrida Verd + Open

 

[Runi Kuryida]

OBJECTIVE II - THE PATH OF TRIALS
Mandalorian Front, Jungles near Fortress Vale, New Cov

Warmaster Kuryida stood at the tip of a precipice that overlooked the intervening distance between the Mandalorian camp and the Ancient Fortress. The Shaman, Speaker of the Mandokarla, always preached taking care of the people back home, but she never advocated for the warriors to lay down their weapons. They were Mandalorian. It was just part of who they were to fight against all odds for survival -- to hunt even the most ferocious creatures in the galaxy and return victorious. Which led to the woman regarding the field of impending battle laid out before her in that light.

She turned and drew down to the gathered warriors there to test -- not slay -- their potential allies, or if nothing else those that paid them to train their number in battle.

"Mandalorians," Runi called out to the Knights and any other warrior present, "we come not to kill, but to educate. That no enemy, no matter how numerous or powerful, is out of our reach. They may yet learn not to underestimate their foes; that their defenses need bolstered; but above all they will know our quality as warriors by the time this is through! Show them the strength of our conviction!"

From base camp the squads would move into position to begin the assault on the Fortress. Some might assault head on while others seek softer walls to surmount and strike from within. Runi would keep particular attention on the Knights, but any Warmaster or Field Marshall would be expected to intervene if either side disregarded the simple rules of the exercise: do not permanently maim, kill, or otherwise harm those of the Republic. Injuries happened, but severed limbs and other lasting injuries would not be tolerated. Discipline was equally as important as martial prowess.

OPEN​

 

[Sibylla Abrantes]

​

OBJECTIVE 1 - THE WAY OF PARLEY
Location: The Court of Iron, Sundari, Mandalore
RNR | Aurelian Veruna Annis Riyaré Raigryn Vayd Dominique Vexx
ME | Aether Verd Runi Kuryida Aselia Verd Ze'bast Verd Kyrida Verd


The Junior Representative stepped lightly off the transport, the drape of Sibylla's robe catching the light with the subtle sheen of House Abrantes' green and silver. It was not ostentation. It never needed to be. Intention, after all, was far more telling than extravagance. Formalities had their place and when diplomacy danced between tradition and pragmatism, every gesture mattered.

House Riyare, with Senator Annis Riyaré arrived first. As the Senator of Naboo, that made sense. Truth be told, it was a position that Sibylla admired, and when the Royal Naboo Republic had been a small sector, a seat she saw as an eventual goal, much like the Queens and Kings of Naboo before her. Annis walked with grace, and Sibylla was sure the older woman had her own plan in play as she murmured low with her advisors.

Senator Raigryn Vayd was not far, the older nobleman once again making his rounds much like they had back on Vendaxa. Besides the fact that both their Houses had some questionable backgrounds, Sibyalla had yet to really see what platform and what policy the Senator would push during this transition period.

And finally... House Veruna.

Aurelian Veruna stood not far, swathed in confidence and too much velvet. His retinue looked like they'd wandered out of a portrait hall and into a negotiation chamber. Sibylla's gaze lingered a fraction too long, unreadable behind her composed smile.

Stay near him, she reminded herself. Not out of camaraderie. Out of caution.

Sibylla moved to take her position beside the Queen, flanked on all sides by bloodlines both noble and calculating. Allies, adversaries, or some confounding mixture of both. Loyal to the Republic. Loyal to a Queen. But certainly watching and observing how this would turn out.

Mandalore's Aether Verd 's greeting rang out, echoing across the gathered assembly for a moment before Sibylla dipped her head in a graceful greeting.

"Your welcome is received with honor, Mand'alor," she replied in a steady voice that was neither too warm nor too cold. "Naboo is pleased to return in good faith."

She didn't need to glance behind her to feel the ripple of watchful eyes. Afterall, a life in politics had taught her that eyes needn't be visible to be felt.

The Court of Iron had once extended its hand, and they had taken it. It had been a small delegation with Senator Vonn, Senator Sarn, Junior Representative Dominic Praxon, and Grandmaster Brianna Sal-Soren. That interaction paved the way for the Mand'alor's invitation to Naboo and the offer of Sibylla to serve as the Mandalorian liaison.

Now, she was here again. Not as a girl in her House's shadow, but as a woman whose policy stood firm, whose tenure spoke volumes, and whose name had begun to grace murmured conversations about what, and who, came after Queen Kalantha.

The very thought tugged at the edge of her composure like a strong tide. Not because it frightened her. Because it didn't.

Let them talk. Let them watch. The Dejarik board was set, and the Royal Houses would place their pieces into positions.

 

[Aileni Ifor Xeraic]

Objective: 2
Attire: Large brown hoodie, grey shirt
Equipment: Dathomiri Energy Bow, Practice saber
Tag: Open

Fighting some Mandalorians, it was an interesting opportunity and would help Aileni understand threats that he might face when he was older and counter those trained to fight Jedi. There was always going to be some new technology, fighting style or weapon that would attempt to balance the fighting field for Non-Force Users. Aileni couldn't afford to lose the opportunity to see what it was currently and how he could handle. There had been a time where Mandalorians would use beasts and equipment to remove the Force from a person, temporarily so it ended up important for a Jedi to be a competent fighter without the Force as they were with the Force.

There were also other obstacles to over come and the many weapons that a Mandalorian brought to the fight, it made it near impossible to predict how to approach a fight. One might have heavy weapons, another melee focused, they could have a sniper rifle. Even the gauntlets varied from one Mandalorian to another. It was what made them very interesting to Aileni and why he had enjoyed studying them and learning their language and culture, there was really no wrong way to approach a fight as a Mandalorian, as long as you gave it your all.

Looking around New Cov, it was a dangerous jungle environment and then there was also the fortress they were in, hints of a past that was beings living on the world in a manner that had been forgotten over the years. History had been made in the fortress and Aileni was tempted to ignore the notion that he needed to protect it and just explore around. Learn about the history that surrounded this fortress. Unfortunately, he was not granted that freedom for the moment since there was a mission and Aileni needed to focus on the mission.

Seeing Lorn, he gave a wave, showing that he was here to support and work on fighting the Mandalorians to show the Jedi were as strong as they ever were. Grabbing his energy bow, Aileni adjusted the setting to ensure it was not lethal and smirked, it should be fun to use the energy bow at least initially.

 

[Aiden Porte]

OBJ 2
Tags: Lorn Reingard Aileni Ifor Xeraic Runi Kuryida

So much change happening in a short time, but the ability to adapt is what showed what sort of character one had. The Jedi Padawan took a deep breath as he glanced out over the ruins, out into the deep forest. They were out there, waiting for their opportunity to test themselves against the now formed High Republic.

This was a test, and it wasn't something Aiden was going to take lightly, he was focused as he could be, recent events had made sure of that. There was no longer that heightened fear that he should run, that was now long gone. He had many to thank for that, what sort of person would he be if you ran now.

And there it was again, that presence from his comrades and from somewhere else. That gave him a gentle nudge through the force. It heightened his strength, will, and fortitude.

He looked a small distance away and he noted Aileni, Dreidi's son. He showed the smallest of smiles as he was quite proud that he was out here. It showed much from the young man. He gave his nephew a small nod, and a familiar smile. If he needed him, he would be there.

It would sound like an old record, but to wake up one day and to feel that hope and strength return. There was determination and a deep look on the face and in the eyes of Aiden Porte.

He was ready, a steady breath and he placed his hand on the ruined stone wall.

He waited, it would begin soon.

 

[Maiz Tor'val]

OBJECTIVE 2
OUTFIT​

Maiz was new to the galaxy. One could ask if she were born yesterday and culturally speaking they wouldn't be far off. So when the Mandalorians geared up for a trip to New Cov -- wherever in the Goddess' good graces that was -- the young Elamshan joined them. Though by the time they'd arrived she'd wished she hadn't. The Mandalorians were used to wearing their armor and sitting on uncomfortable seats being thrown about the galaxy, but not Maiz. To say nothing about the dry, arid air aboard a sealed tin can they called a starship.

If it weren't for regal dignity she would have literally popped out of that ship to bask in the sun of New Cov and draw in a bottomless breath of fresh and unfiltered air. Well, mostly unfiltered. Apparently the people of this planet lived in enclosed domes, but it was close enough.

But soon they were off again. Blessed for a far shorter trip out into the wilds.

That's where they lost Maiz. She could tell they were organizing a military camp and readying to set off, but they were of 'technology' and 'arms.' Far too much like the Darthiir for her tastes, but evidently much of the galaxy basked in the benefits of such things. Nonetheless, it left little for Maiz to do. Standing around looking lost was not her way, so she started to explore.

Her way understood the ways of the living. The Elamsha used the blessings of the goddess to harness the riches of their world. It was described to her that 'Covies' did the same, but in selling these 'biomolecules.' So while the Mandalorians readied for battle, she thought to explore New Cov personally. Despite the warnings of peril and death that warranted a domed city.

And that's how she came by the fortress, if you catch her meaning.

Dressed in a light shell of armor woven with crystalline strands, Maiz seemed to step out of the shadows of the jungle with her black complexion within charging distance of the fortress. Her steps were measured and in no great hurt as the ruin towered before her. It was quite reminiscent of certain places back home, actually. What tales featured this place, she wondered?

Whether by command to stop, or of her own accord, the Elamshan Priestess did stop before the fortress with her bright eyes turned up at its walls. She could sense there were creatures within. Had she come upon the structure the Mandalorians had been preparing for? Perhaps there would be time to meet these... Jeddie, or the Republick warriors. If they rather start shooting first that was fine with her as well. Maiz did desire to see how people of this galaxy fought, and how it measured up to the power of the Goddesses.

OPEN
Lorn Reingard | Aileni Ifor Xeraic | Aiden Porte
Runi Kuryida​

 

[Cassian Abrantes]

RNR: Aurelian Veruna Dominique Vexx Annis Riyaré Raigryn Vayd
ME: Aether Verd Runi Kuryida Aselia Verd Ze'bast Verd Kyrida Verd


It was difficult to trust, to repair what was broken. He wasn't here to talk in politics, engage in political debates. He left that to those that were well versed in such tactics. His upbringing he had learned and gained many traits and commanded a high degree of respect among his peers and in the royal and political specter for his deeds.

Yet, he wasn't a speaker.

He was a soldier.

Cassian wasn't here to intimidate or showcase a form of power or strength. He was simply here for protection, for everyone.

As much as it annoyed him, even protection for House Veruna.

He followed with a strong sense of duty and steadiness after his sister Sibylla Abrantes

A small retinue courtesy of the Royal Defense Force. They weren't going without a form of protection, regardless of whatever event this was to be. Peaceful events could also erupt into something greater or deadlier.

A stern yet polite look cast upon those that accepted them, and he stood vigilant.

 

[Adonis Angelis IV]

Objective IIV
Tag: Aiden Porte Runi Kuryida Maiz Tor'val Lorn Reingard Aileni Ifor Xeraic

Sweat beaded along Adonis's brow, trapped beneath the seal of his helmet like a prisoner. He wasn't built for this kind of heat- dense, clinging, the kind that turned beskar into an oven and breath into steam. The jungles of New Cov were alive with sound, the buzz of insects and the distant howl of something too big for comfort echoing through the green gloom. A paradise for predators. A nightmare for precision.

Of course the Royal Republic and the Mandalorian Empire had chosen this place for their wargames. It was never a beach. Never a clean sparring circle with chilled drinks and polite nods. No, always some forgotten fortress strangled by vines, or a graveyard crawling with undead. Tough mynock osik, he muttered to himself as he shifted in the underbrush. Complaints didn't change a battlefield. A Mando'ad adapts, or he dies.

He exhaled slowly, letting the thought pass. Focus returned. The others were out there, somewhere beyond the trees. This wasn't just training. It was a test of soul and purpose. Of proving worth not only to the others, but to the kin beside you.

Clipped to the magnetic locks on his beskar'gam was a training saber- not his usual weapon, but a tempered one. A dulled blade, by design. Because real sabers cut too deep, and this wasn't a battle meant to leave scars. Beside it, a compact blaster. Slung across his back, a full-length rifle set to stun. Smoke grenades hung from his belt like beads on a warrior's rosary. Every piece tuned to non-lethal, but no less effective.

This wasn't about conquest. Not today. It was about control- discipline under pressure. Strength shown without excess. The Resol'nare taught that warfare was the way, but not every battle called for blood. Sometimes, ori'jate meant restraint.

His gaze lifted, piercing through the rising mist and treetops until it settled on the figure at the overlook- Warmaster Runi Kuryida. Standing like she was born of beskar and firelight, her presence alone could steady a wavering line. A hell of a leader. He hadn't had many chances to serve under her command, not directly. But that was changing. And Adonis didn't intend to waste the opportunity.

He rose from his crouch and crossed the clearing, boots nearly silent in the undergrowth. The Force brushed the edge of his senses, a flicker of movement, a ripple of presence. Jedi. Jetii. They were in the fortress. And though he hadn't crossed blades with many, the stories carved into the walls of Sundari told enough. Mystics. Duelists. Dangerous.

But if you wanted to grow, you didn't back down from a worthy foe.

You stepped forward and met them head-on.

"Warmaster," he said, halting a respectful distance away. He dipped his head, not in submission, but with reverence. Strength recognized. "If I may approach. What do you see?"

 

[Kyric]

Solemn Blade
The Tengu of Ashina
The Path Forward

​

Darkness enveloped Kyric's vision in totality as he stood by his lonesome atop the battlements; his mind adrift in distant memories of Coruscant. He stood in solemn silence as if in a deep meditation. Flashes of his battle with the Dark Jedi Master Lord Creuat prevailed over all others. Kyric felt his hands and legs begin to tremble at the thought of facing another enemy of the nautolan's caliber, even in a mock battle such as this. A deep seeded fear blossomed within the boy's heart—a fear of losing himself to the killer the kiffar knew lingered just behind his face, where it remained in constant vigil for a crack in the boy's psyche to appear.

"Why the hell did I stay on freakin' Naboo?" Kyric broke his silence as he opened his good eye. He peered out at the jungle with a quiet huff. "Now I'm prancin' around with this damned Jedi Order, fightin' Mandos in the woods."

Kyric leaped atop the broad parapet and took the loose bit of bandage dangling from his right arm. He wound it tight around his scarred, ruinous flesh, and reached down for the training saber attached to his belt, opposite the sheathed blade dangling from his left hip. Some part of him regretted turning down a uniform. Another part of him would rather drop dead than wear a Jedi bath robe.

"Dad must be turnin' over in his grave right about now." Kyric dropped the device to the jungle-floor however many stories down and turned back to the others gathered across the fortress.

He didn't recognize a single face.

Unsure what to make of the others, the homeless 'Jedi Knight' shrugged away the pointless endeavor and took a deep breath. He righted his father's old poncho around himself as he summoned the ethereal threads of the Force to his aid. The familiar sensation suffused him with warmth, but even the welcome touch of the all-encompassing empyrean did not chase the fear away.

"Hesitation is defeat," Kyric repeated his Master's words. "The only path available to me is forward."

Kyric leaped from the walls as Maiz Tor'val approached, propelled to impossible heights over the tree line. He reached the zenith of his jump and slowly descended beneath the trees, disappearing into the unfamiliar jungle with the grace of a panther. Landing atop a thick branch, Kyric darted across the gnarled wood and took to the air once more, soaring through the canopy without so much as a sound. But he wasn't so afraid that he intended to lean into this power and ambush their 'enemy', no. He need only reach the point where they could see him.

---

Tags: Open
Honorable Mentions: Lord Creuat | Inosuke Ashina
Force Bonds: Bernard | Capris Halcyon | Lord Creuat

 

[Auren Vellisar]

OBJECTIVE I: The Path of Parley
LOCATION: The Court of Iron, Sundari, Mandalore
Annis Riyaré | Raigryn Vayd | Dominique Vexx | Aurelian Veruna | Aether Verd | Sibylla Abrantes

​

Auren Vellisar, once the civic overseer of the newly charted world discovered by Balun Dashiell within the expanding territory of the High Republic, had since risen to the prestigious rank of Senator. A man of both vision and lineage, he was a noble by birth, heir to the esteemed House Vellisar of Naboo. Though his heart had grown fond of Jhaessa Prime, his loyalty to Naboo, his first love and birthplace, remained steadfast. Today, it was for Naboo that he stood.

The vaulted expanse of the Court of Iron echoed with the weight of history and diplomacy as Auren entered, greeted by none other than Aether Verd, the newly appointed Mandalor. Flanking him were two of his most trusted aides: Lysa Quarn, his sharp-minded Chief of Staff, and Tolen Vair, his ever-watchful Security Consultant. Despite Tolen's strong objections, he had come unarmed, leaving his pistol behind at Auren's request. The Senator had insisted upon a gesture of trust, an intentional display of unity and goodwill meant to support not only the Queen of Naboo but also to offer a hand of friendship to the Mandalorian Empire.

Auren knew the weight of history they stood beneath. The Mandalorians of the past had not always been kind to the Galaxy, and many harboured justified caution. Yet he chose to believe in the possibility of something new. Perhaps, with the right people in power and the right hearts at the table, the old patterns could be broken. After all, wasn't that the very foundation of what every true statesman hoped for, to help shape a better future than the one they inherited?

 

[Voli Cholrass]

Current Outfit
Pre Built Lightsaber

Objective 2

Voli was nervous.

That was a lie, Voli was flat out terrified she read about the tensions between the Mandalorian Empire and the newly named High Republic the latter which she moved to along with her Master: Dreidi Xeraic . Voli knew that Jedi were warriors yet Dreidi always insisted that they were keepers of the peace. "Keepers of the peace," Voli thought with contempt. "It's just a fancy way of saying that they fight battles for governments who care little for them."

Right now the leaders from both factions are trying to hash out a peace agreement of sorts while the rest of the people are left in a "mock battle" to ease tensions. Hah! Ease tensions, this is the perfect excuse for the Mandos to create "accidents." "I'm just a girl," Voli thought. "And our opponents have been trained since birth."

She turned to her Master like she always did whenever she had doubts. "Is this a good Idea?" Voli said. "I don't think engaging with Mandalorian warriors is a smart thing to do. Even if it is a proving ground, they fight hard and dirty."

 

[Dreidi Xeraic]

Location: New Cov
Outfit: Jedi Attire
Companion: Grisial
Equipment: Lightsaber, Nightsister Energy Bow, Ichor Sword
Tag: Voli Cholrass (Interacting) | Lorn Reingard , Aiden Porte , Kyric (Nearby) | Runi Kuryida , Maiz Tor'val , Adonis Angelis IV

Dreidi figured a fighting simulation with Mandalorians would be the perfect opportunity for Voli to see where her strengths in combat were and where her limitations were. Dreidi could also sense the negative thinking that Voli had around the idea of working cooperatively with Mandalorians as well, so Dreidi wanted to give her a chance to see the other sides of interacting Mandalorians and that they were good people.

"Better to train with skilled opponents than find yourself unprepared to fight greater threats who will be trying to kill you." Dreidi mentioned, providing a reason for this being educational for Voli. "Mandalorians fight with honour, if they seem dirty or hard, it is because they give everything they had into a fight and strive to win." Dreidi had lived through many Mandalorian battles against Jedi while she was a child on Kashyyyk during the war between the Silver Jedi and the Mandalorian Empire of the time. She knew the tricks they had and what they would do to win, but there was a level of dedication and stubbornness that Dreidi admired.

Looking at the others here, Dreidi noticed her son was here as well, another Padawan here to test his skills and improve, it was good to see.

"Voli, it is important to see how your combat skills are currently and where they could be improved. Simulation fights with others like this, it is a good way to test that." Dreidi mentioned, "these are also allies so we can help them as much as they are helping us. It might not be the ideal position as a Jedi but we have enough enemies without attempting to create more by dismissing the Mandalorians who wish to be peaceful with us."

There was an ever growing Sith Order that bordered them currently and Dreidi had heard that imperial factions were rising up once again.

 

[Aurelian Veruna]

Aurelian caught the Mand'alor's words with a tilt of his head and a half-smile that said everything and nothing at once. "Welcome to Mandalore." As welcomes went, it wasn't warm, but it was weighty, and that was far more interesting.

He let the silence afterward do its work. Let the others bask in it, stew in it, interpret it into policy briefs and carefully worded reports. For Aurelian, it was like stepping into a theatre where no one had decided who the villain was yet.

His gaze wandered lazily across the court, until it landed on the stern, immovable wall of muscle that was Cassian Abrantes. Aurelian gave him a slow once-over. Perfect posture. Perfect scowl. Probably knew exactly how many weapons were in the room without even trying. Delightful.

Aurelian offered the soldier a smirk that was all insolent charm and no real malice, a little flick of the eyebrow, a whispered suggestion of "do lighten up, won't you?" He said nothing aloud, but the look alone might as well have been a velvet-wrapped poke in the ribs.

Then, with the nonchalance of someone browsing fine art or choosing his next mistake, Aurelian crossed the floor toward Auren Vellisar.

"Senator Vellisar," he said, drawing the name out just enough to taste it. "You look like a man who believes in this." He gestured with one hand, rings catching the firelight, to the towering throne, the crimson halls, the spears, the history pressing down on them like the weight of old stars.

His tone wasn't mocking, exactly. Just...intrigued.

"You actually think this will hold? Naboo and Mandalore, sitting down at the same table like old friends instead of ancient disappointments? Or are we just here to trade nice metals and pretend we don't know how this usually ends?"

His voice lowered slightly, not for secrecy, but intimacy, like a whispered joke at a masquerade.

"Because if it holds… that would be something worth watching."

He arched a brow, gaze flickering, curious, dangerous, very much awake.

Auren Vellisar | Annis Riyaré | Raigryn Vayd | Dominique Vexx | Aether Verd | Sibylla Abrantes | Cassian Abrantes​

 

[Lorn Reingard]

​

Lorn's eyes moved, calm but unrelenting, sweeping over the figures now gathered on the fortress walls. Aileni Ifor Xeraic , bow slung and looking like he could barely hold back a grin. The kid was eager, always had been. Somewhere nearby, Aiden Porte stood like a sentinel made flesh, firm, steady, the way Lorn needed his Jedi to be today.

Then Kyric , gods help him, leapt over the parapets like a loose lightsaber crystal. Lorn narrowed his eyes. That knight was all grit and unresolved trauma.. Useful. Dangerous. Barely restrained.

His comm crackled briefly. Voli Cholrass 's voice. Dreidi Xeraic 's steady counterpoint. He caught their tone without needing the full words. He trusted Dreidi to temper Voli's fear. Mandalorians weren't known for their patience, and fear would only feed the fire.

He stepped forward, boots grinding against the stone.

"All units, on alert," Lorn called, voice calm, but with that edge he'd learned in the trenches of real wars. "Defensive pattern Aurek-Three. No lethal strikes. Precision only. Let them test us, show them what strength means in the Republic."

He paused, gaze lifting to the jungle. Movement. One. No, three signatures.

He raised a hand and the silence snapped.

"Fire control: top turrets, west quadrant, fire stun bursts at twenty degrees down-angle. Scatter pattern."

The first rounds lit up the green canopy with blue pulses, hissing through the damp air. Lorn reached to his belt, unhooked his saber (stun settings), but didn't ignite it. Not yet. His other hand gestured to Aileni and Aiden.

"Flank left. Keep it tight. If they breach the lower west gate, I want them in a crossfire. Aileni, don't get fancy unless you're backed up."

He pointed two fingers to the southeast parapet where Dreidi and Voli stood. "Hold that ridge. Voli, today you fight, not run. Don't try to prove anything. Just be."

Then into the comms again: "Kyric, don't disappear on me. If you're scouting, mark targets. Do not engage alone unless necessary. These are warriors bred for this."

A faint smirk ghosted his lips.

The fortress came alive. Blue arcs of stun fire lanced through the jungle's edge. Soldiers moved to positions like parts of a living organism. Lorn's mind tracked every motion, every corner, like a map etched into his skull.

He took position behind the uppermost guardrail, knelt, and leveled his own blaster. His saber stayed cold.

This wasn't about style. It wasn't about Force tricks.

It was about the kind of strength that stayed when everything else fell away.

Spoiler

TLDR Actions: Assembled and assessed allied Jedi positions (Aileni, Aiden, Kyric, Voli, Dreidi). Issued full defensive orders to the Republic forces: Pattern Aurek-Three (defensive, measured, non-lethal). Ordered scatter stun fire into the jungle to mark the start of the war games. Sent Aileni and Aiden to cover the west flank and intercept potential breach points. Directed Voli and Dreidi to hold the southeast ridge. Instructed Kyric to scout but avoid solo engagement. Took a sniper overwatch position, personally coordinating fire control while watching for Mandalorian movement.

Runi Kuryida | Adonis Angelis IV | Maiz Tor'val​