Against Them All

[Jayce Vitulas]

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Region: Outer Rim​

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Sector: Arkanis sector​

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System: Tatoo System​

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Location: Tatooine​

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The night began to grow cold, as the twin suns of Tatooine slipped underneath the horizon. The scorching heat of the day was soon replaced by the cooler weather, which would get even colder as this side of the planet fell into night. Shops slowly closed up for the day, some of the more exotic type staying open just a bit longer. There was still time left to drink and sing in the cantina, filled with the worst scum and villainy the galaxy has ever seen. The gentle hum of the Figrin D'an and the Modal Nodes Tribute band could be heard from outside. Another noise could be heard as the filth washed down the stairway of the establishment, the rumbles of a brawl. A Defel had upset a Wookie during their match of dejarik, spectators of the duel said that it erupted when the Defel made a comment about the Wookie's opening strategy. True to the tale, the Wookie proceeded to remove the Defel's arm from its socket and sat back down.

The hairy wolf-like creature screamed, rolling on the ground like an over sized mop. It's comrades picked the tall monster up and brought it outside. The roar of conflict was soon replaced by the next hit song, laughter and talk of investment. From the stairway, moving aside for the lumbering, pain stricken creature, was a cloaked man. He walked slowly into the cantina, looking from side to side, examining, searching for someone. The bartender's ear stood at attention, waiting for the shadowy figure to ask for a drink. The cloak moved towards the metal casing, the eyes in the darkness observing the perspiration from the cups seeping onto the glass topping. The mysterious individual gestured to one of the local brews listed on the cardboard cutout, hanging from one of the tubes that assisted in the brewing of the concoction, a metal hook keeping the two connected.

The bartender shook his head in acknowledgement, taking one of the dusty glasses from behind the bar, pouring it ever so slowly. With a steady hand he began to turn the glass, foam that was forming dissipated and a limeish green liquid soon took its place. The elderly man removed a rag from his belt, wiping the glass till there was nothing on the outside. Placing the cup on the counter, he looked at the shade, noticing the payment was already on the table. The figure gestured the bartender closer. His hands covered in thick onyx colored gloves, not a speck of dirt upon them. The drink prep moved closer.

A calm voice leaped into his ear, it was smooth and the words were spoken gently. "I am looking for a man. He should be wearing a golden mask."

The bartenders eyes glazed over, returning to normal in a mere second. His rough tone soon barked from his throat. "Never seen anyone like that."

"Thank you for the information and the drink." The voice was still calm, sweet and gone. The bartender looked up, the figure and the drink had disappeared. More credits were left on the glass counter, the old man snickered and cupped his hand, pulling the money in towards himself.

The shadow found himself a nice seat between the band and some Duros who were enjoying themselves. As the enigma was enjoying their drink, a Talz sat across from them, making claims for the seat. Squeaks and squawks erupted from the creatures, till a simple gesture from the shades hand cut the Talz off and the large body dropped to the floor. The white fur bouncing, paws grabbing at the throat. The beast was choking, till it wasn't. Propping itself on its hands and knees, the proboscis expanding and shrinking, as air flooded back in. The Talz got the hint and skittered off into the crowd. The surrounding group's eyes darted back to their respected tables, keeping to themselves.

The mysterious individual sank into the booth, taking tiny sips of the green liquid. The hood relieved a human-like jaw, pasty white skin and a fresh scratch. Sitting there, the shade gestured for another drink, not moving from the spot that it had won. A waitress ran over and took the empty glass, smiling, then running back to the bar. Hours past as the figure did not move from the spot, only requesting more and more drinks.

[member="Orion Darkstar"]

 

[Orion Darkstar]

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There was only one good thing about the desert planet, night time. Orion hated the heat and being subjected to the cooler winds of the planet made him less angry. Although he escaped the heat, the sand still remained. With every step he could feel the grainy bits slipping into the wide opening of his loose boots. Had he not gone far out into the northern dunes, earlier that night, he would have dealt with something far more dangerous than golden dirt. Orion's hunt was a failure, the fabled Krayt Dragon was no where to be seen. It wasn't Orion's fault, instead the lying scum at the cantina would pay. Clearly, the Rodian that slipped him the info for a huge chunk of credits; didn't know Orion was a sith and a capable one at that. ​

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Despite the entire day being a waste the breeze of the night's cold air made up for it. Orion wasn't in his normal battle attire. He had learned his lesson about traveling heavy on the wasteland he currently walked. The dried cracks of hardened mud splintered onward as a canyon came into view. He was closer than he thought to reaching a cold drink. His white cracked lips showed dehydration, even though he brought plenty of fluids with him on his trip. The heat throughout the day was a vicious monster to combat. Regardless, the circumstances were not dire. Orion, being who he was wouldn't allow such a fate to befall him. As he approached the edge of the tall, rocky canyon he stopped. The sweet noise of clinging and laughter filled the air. He sighed, his long black hair grazing his pale cheek.​

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Orion like most others refused to wear anything heavy, which left him without his common chrome mask. Along with such change he wore a light, black shirt with the sleeves torn on each side. At his waist was a designed belt, from a crafty leather worker on the planet of Ambria. Below that, a long stretch of black pants made of clothed fabric for quicker movement. His equipment was latched to his belt. The only thing that hid it was a medium sized cloak, that wrapped around his shoulders and draped over the front of him. He adjusted his cloak to conceal his weaponry and continued forward. He careened around the corner and spotted the tiny Bazaars packing up. Some remained open as he slipped into the light crowd huddled around the narrow stone way. The solid taps from his feet forced another sigh of relief. Moving through the rough shifting sands all day was taxing. Being able to meet hard, leveled ground was sweeter than sugar. ​

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Elusive and quickly, Orion reached the cantina. The melody that formed was enchanting and eased his aggravated demeanor. He stepped in, species from all over peering over at him. They mumbled among themselves before he surveyed the tables one by one. The Rodian wasn't at the gambling table from before, but his goons remained. He took note of their firepower and grinned. His white cracked lips curled upward at the glorious thought of dismantling them in gruesome ways. Unfortunately, Orion knew the company that was spread through the establishment. Each and everyone of them were cynical tyrants of the underworld. Some were drug lords, while others were scummy criminals alike. Some were even considered to be worse than sith in certain parts of the galaxy. ​

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Orion made his way down the steps and onto the ground floor. He reached the bar and leaned over slightly, his biceps flexing as he did. ​

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"Where is he?"Orion asked, the bartender looking up from behind the counter at him.​

"Who?" The bartender said, before placing a glass in front of Orion on the counter. ​

"I don't want to play this game with you, just tell me where Faust is and you'll keep your head."​

"I..." The bartender hesitated before finding the right words. "He's on the second level. Last time I heard, the jerks over there.." The bartender motioned carefully to the second floor entrance, pointing out two large thugs. "Won't let anyone in alright? They'll have me head fer tellin ya, so don't go causing problems."​

"There it is, just what I was looking for. Here's a little something. Also, a Blue Chrizo on ice please." Orion ordered. ​

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He waited for only a minute or two before the bartender shook two metal cups together and slowly poured the cyan colored drink into a short, wide glass. The ice crackled as the liquid swished about upon contact. Once he was done pouring, Orion lifted his cup to him and smiled. He had gotten what he wanted and soon, very soon they all would bleed a river of blood.​

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I've got you now...​

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Orion's eyes narrowed onto the thugs protecting the upper level. Tipping the drink upward, a rush of tasteful fluids revitalized his parched mouth. Slowly he moved toward them. A sudden wash of the force fluttered over him. It was neither light nor dark. It gave him a shiver, the thought torn to the forefront of his mind, like a wave pulling him under. He knew exactly who it was. The name evaded him for only a moment until the bond between them forced him to remember after so long. Orion's emerald casings for eyes moved to a booth, its only guest that of a hooded man. ​

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Jayce?​

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[member=JAyce R. Vitalus"]​

 

[Jayce Vitulas]

The little tavern was quiet, not in the normal sense, it was actually quite loud in a general way, but in terms of no nonsense. Five drinks in and there was little the man had to do, patience was certainly with the individual. The prospect of a certain individual walking into the complex was in high hopes. On the seventh drink, it seemed as the faith was running thin and tensions in the shade were rising. Of course, like things tend to do when one is waiting for something, that something appears when the patience is about to run out. Another blacked cloaked man, hood down, walked into the cantina, the darkside swirled around him like he was a conduit. His features confirmed what he might be, pale skin, seemingly from the corruption. The shadow leaned forward, examining all the little movements. Smiling, the man was always smiling. A sinister grin.

The noise in the cantina was growing louder, making it hard to hear further conversations, at least important ones. The bartender looked frightened, must have been threatened, gesturing to the second level of the building. The stranger looked pleased and reached for a drink. Clearly the individual had been out in the warm desert, because the drink was gone in moments. Emerald eyes illuminated the room as the young man turned the corner of the bar, burning with a blood-lust that may soon be quenched. The booth seemed to grow colder as the figure moved closer, glasses smoking on the inside. The shadow sat back into the velvet chair, a smile slipping through the alcohol soaked lips. Perhaps the liquor had gotten to him, or maybe it was the excitement, but the mystery man was grinning from ear to ear. He had found the person he had been looking for.

Across the room, the eyes of some thugs seemed to be attracted by the black haired stranger. Their eyes filled with ideas of grandeur, their mouths gaping open. They knew who was coming for their leader and they needed to be the hero, before harm could come to one of their own. They thought of themselves as smart people, loading the rifle in just the perfect way, two people covering the trigger man, his eyes watching the loading of rounds into a long barrel. The wretch's eyes locked onto the darkside user, aimed and slowly pressed on the trigger. The shade's hand glided across the table, a cup floated in the air from the corresponding table. It flew right into the thug's neighboring table. A pack of Saurin rose from their chairs, enraged. One of the blockers looked over, giving them the "What are you looking at," sign from his lips. He was promptly pushed into the gun man, another brawl erupted. The gun man was forced to the floor and was beaten to death by a couple of the Saurins.

The cloaked man laughed to himself, feeling each punch that fell onto the thug's skull. He was a click away, but felt as though he was right there, taking the blows. The pale skinned male seemed to stop near his table, feeling a sense of nostalgia, then looking around. The shade waved his hand in the air and promptly removed his hood. Jayce Vitalus had made his appearance known.

[member="Orion Darkstar"]

 

[Orion Darkstar]

Orion stopped, his hands clenching before he reached the thugs at the steps. There was no turning back from this. If he acted on his intentions it clearly would result in death. Not his own death, but many others. He was filled with rage and before he knew it a shimmering glass sped passed him. The clear cup soared through the cantina like a bullet before it crashed into a crowd of saurins. The results caused an eruption of violence as a distant threat was beaten and left bleeding among the dirty floor. The steps were clear. It would have been a perfect opening to pursue the man who wronged him. Unfortunately, Orion knew that if he continued Faust would catch wind. He needed to wait for things to calm down. ​

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With a slight pivot in direction, Orion meandered through a standing pack of yelling customers as the violence continued near by. He slid through like water and approached the one thing the force pulled him towards [member="Jayce Vitalus"]. It was odd to think that with such different outlooks in the galaxy they still came together. It felt normal though at the same time. The two of them together dealt with a powerful Jedi Master. That, to Orion stood for something at least. As he reached the table he placed his hand flat on the metal surface. The cool feeling made him grin, a flash of lights outlining his face for only a moment before it shifted its attention back to the dance floor.​

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Orion knew for a fact that the hooded man was Jayce. It wasn't until Jayce flipped his hood backwards to reveal the truth. Orion lightly smiled, knowing a familiar face in a place like pirate city was a plus. After a rough day and frustration washing over him, Orion could use a break. Still, he remembered how different they used to be compared to one another. Something was more than different about his old companion Jayce. He couldn't quite put his finger on it. Then like a seeping gas of infectious wisdom, the darkside embraced him. The blanket of cold that wrapped around him comforted him. What was more odd, Jayce seemed to share the same blanket. Orion ignored it for now, as he bent into the other side of the booth and spoke. ​

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"What's a guy like you doing in a scummy place like this? Have you finally realized I was right, after all this time?" Orion paused. Orion's hand lifted to the air in front of Jayce. With a simple wave and a curl of his fingers something began to manifest itself into existence. A tiny crystal of ice slowly formed, a statue of Master Monarch staring back at him. A tiny twitch of his fingers forced the icy art onto the table closer to Jayce. "It was the right thing to do, you know it."​

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Orion's voice was as cold as the memory he made in front of him. It held truth or at least the weight of what he believed. His pale face leaned inward, his bright green eyes staring back at Jayce's. ​

Orion felt something inexplicable.​

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A small disease was spreading through Jayce, a disease that could only be called the darkside. ​

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[Jayce Vitulas]

The hand slithered its way onto the table, the black cloak cutting off the view of the brawl. A breeze of cold washed over Jayce, yet there was no wind. The bundles of long onyx hair wrapped around the shoulders, an a human-male face stared back at the Grey Jedi. This was not the man he remembered, then again, everyone looked different behind a golden mask. There was no mask this time however, which surprised Jayce. As far as he knew, Kevros Kovani, was non human, despised them really and never removed his famous mask, no matter what. Examining this stranger, Jayce listened to what he had to say, knowing it might be something involving the darkside.

"What's a guy like you doing in a scummy place like this? Have you finally realized I was right, after all this time?" Kevros paused, his words quickly moving for the subject Jayce was sure about. The Sith contorted his hand, his fingers wiggling through the air, until something began to grow from nothing. The demonstration was more than just a fancy way of asking of a question, it was to reveal new abilities, strength. Jayce was mystified by this power, but the statement that followed, sullied the moment. "It was the right thing to do, you know it."

Jayce's head tilted to the side by just a couple of degrees west, his eyes locked on to his former acquaintance. "I am here for a very simple reason, I need your help. Although, nothing comes for free, so, I am aware that you will ask for my help as well." Jayce willed the force to fetch him another drink, an unsuspecting Toydarian was the victim of theft. His metal cup floated across the two tables and landed gently in front of the black cloak. Impressed with himself, the young man snickered, but returning to the matter at hand. "I have foreseen this during my time on Dagobah, but of course, that is completely up to you." The Grey Jedi took the metal cup from the table and began twirling it slowly, watching the green liquid swirl around inside. "And as for your talk of Monarch, let me say what I said so long ago. I don't blame you. In the same situation, I would have cut the old man down too." Of course, this wasn't entirely true. Jayce was very sad to hear that it was Kevros who slayed his master. The ideas of the Jedi letting go of the past, seemed like a lack of remorse. This conversation didn't matter though, none of it mattered. What did however, was the mission.

The sternness in his voice was shocking, never expecting that he could hold such ferocity in his throat. His eyes leaped from the lime-colored juice, right back to the pale faced man. "Now, what do you say Kevros? You want to get into more trouble with a dear old friend?" His eyes narrowed, a grin spread across his face. The room seemed to be growing colder, and the lights began to dim. The young man grabbed his arm, twisting and pulling upon it. Everything began to return to normal. The smile returned, but it was a fake in comparison to the old one. Trying to not make anymore weird movements, Jayce returned his gaze, waiting for the reply.

With or without the Sith's help, it made no difference. A threat was looming over the galaxy, Jayce had witnessed it first hand. It was coming for them all.

[member="Orion Darkstar"]

 

[Orion Darkstar]

Orion listened, waiting for the real reason why someone like Jayce would be in a place like this. The words evaded the grey Jedi until he spat it out. He sought help, something a sith rarely offered unless it was a lucrative deal. Which Jayce was clearly made aware of as he continued. There wasn't any doubt that the force had connected the blind follower to him. It was like a tantalizing project that continued to tease him. Orion was capable of recruiting many others to the darkside. Jayce was different, he held back his true emotions. It was something that plagued the grey jedi for so long. Maybe, just maybe this time; Orion could find a way. He looked down at the center of the table and reached for a tiny shell. His thumb broke into it as an oily nut appeared from within. It glistened under the dim light above as Orion examined it. A tiny smirk curled onto his face, his growling hunger taunting him from a rough days work. ​

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With a nonchalant flick the kernel was caught in his mouth. The crunchy texture filling his mouth with a earthly taste. He shifted his attention away from Jayce once more as he spotted the Saurins sit back down and get comfortable. Things looked like they would clear up sooner rather than later. Turning back to Jayce, he sighed. Helping him would mean no time for the Krayt Dragon. Also, Faust would get another day to live. He didn't like the idea, but Jayce helped him take down Monarch, subliminally at the time. Orion could still see the waves of Lahn as he stared back at the grey jedi. Perhaps something good would come out of an adventure that didn't pertain to sith sorcery and finding ways to create his own specialized magics. Hunting wasn't going well and Faust would have his day soon enough. ​

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A light smile reached him as he extended his arm over the bowl of shelled nuts. His hand loosely waiting to grip Jayce's.​

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"There will be a price Jayce." Orion still waited for the same courtesy of a shake. "As long as you understand that you'll be in my debt, I have no qualms."​

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Orion could tell there was an underlined issue. Whatever Jayce was trying to prevent it clearly could be just as much as a threat to the sith empire. Stopping it before things got out of control couldn't hurt anything. Certainly, not Orion. ​

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"One other thing..." Orion's eyes flashed from green to an orange sunset for only a moment. The darkside bending to his will. "You'll refer to me as Orion Darkstar. Are we clear?"​

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Orion hadn't heard the name Kevros in almost two years. It was almost disgusting to think of what he used to be. Even with his father still tormenting his mind, Orion was far from what Kevros was. Although they were the same person, each were entirely different. ​

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One was weak, while the other grew strong. ​

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[member="Jayce Vitalus"] ​

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[Jayce Vitulas]

Jayce watched as the Sith seemed to be uninterested in the conversation. His head twisting, looking over to the Saurins that killed his would-be killers. The Grey Jedi knew that the details for the assistance was unnecessary, but it was important to be thorough. This was another life risking mission, just like the one they did all those years ago. Both of them survived by the will of the force, they luck would need to be extra strong for this encounter. They needed a battle strategy if what Jayce had foresaw in the cave was to come true. If there was even a slight misstep, they would both suffer for it.

Talking to the darkside user was agonizing, the cracking of shells, the oily nuts crunching in his mouth. Jayce considered this person a friend, but the ignorance made him want to punch the Zelosian right in his snub face. In that moment though, the young man found himself shocked. These thoughts were not his own, being this close to Kevros was making him more aggressive. He did notice a small change in his attitude since leaving Dagobah, but nothing like this. Jayce brushed it off as nothing more than being tired from waiting.

Once the young man was done, he waited for Kevros' reply. He was greeted with a light smile and the Zelosian's right hand. "There will be a price Jayce," he said with the smile growing ever brighter. "As long as you understand that you'll be in my debt, I have no qualms."If only he knew what he was getting into, Jayce thought to himself. Taking the Sith's hand, Jayce irises were washed over by a crimson hue. "Deal."

They Grey Jedi knew there would be a catch, there is always something. No one in this galaxy gets by on the good fortune of others. If you want anything, you need to barter. Unfortunately for Kevros, there was nothing that could be as hard as this task. The Sith did make something very apparent though, he wanted to be called Orion Darkstar. The name had a nice ring to it, though Jayce didn't understand the significance of a name change. A question that can be asked later on.

The young man rose from his chair, whipping his midnight black hair to the side, his eyes returning to the normal electric blue coloration. With a large grin on his face, Jayce spoke once more. "Since we are in full agreement, we shouldn't waste anymore time. Now Orion, let's go kill the man you were originally here for."

[member="Orion Darkstar"]

 

[Orion Darkstar]

"Deal." ​

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The one word Orion longed to hear. He would deal with whatever Jayce had coming for him and in turn use him for his own elaborate plans, when the time came. For now, Orion was at his service. He wouldn't allow an opportunity to stop something bigger than the both of them pass by. Everything that was agreed upon would later find Jayce in a worse situation. If only the grey jedi knew that a deal with the devil was a terrible one. Orion would make sure to get everything he could out of Jayce. One favor to another was the way the game was played and Orion was good at it. In light of the entire negotiation, Jayce gained an old ally. An ally that was considered a monster to the galaxy. ​

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"Since we are in full agreement, we shouldn't waste anymore time. Now Orion, let's go kill the man you were originally here for."​

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It wouldn't happen, not today anyway. Orion knew this and judging from the saurins escapade, Faust was far out of reach by now. Shaking his head left to right slowly, he rolled his eyes. If Jayce thought the man he came to kill was still in the cantina, he was less intelligent than he thought. Not to mention announcing such things out in the open for crowds of people to hear. Regardless, Orion slid to the edge of the seat and pushed off the table to stand. ​

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"Jayce, you just said we shouldn't waste anymore time. Faust is exactly that. I'll give him his in due time. Right now, we had an agreement. Lead the way, old friend."​

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Orion wasn't sure if the man in front of him was a friend or not. They had experienced quite a few ups and downs with one another. Yet, Orion still felt unsure. Using words of comfort were part of his trade. He utilized words in a manner to gain trust quickly and strike people down. It was one of the easiest ways to convert a force sensitive to the darkside. While it may have seemed sketchy to those looking on the outside in, Orion found that such methods created a strong tension and bond between him and his recruits. Although, still being an acolyte and serving under the other lords of his order, he was in no place to train them. A valuable asset always knew its worth, Orion did just that. ​

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He looked at the bright neon sign over the exit frame in the distance. The green and purple lights faded out from constant use. He looked at Jayce once more and patiently waited. The only thing that stirred in his mind became more and more apparent. ​

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I wonder what Jayce has gotten into now...​

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[member="Jayce Vitalus"]​

 

[Jayce Vitulas]

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Jayce, you just said we shouldn't waste anymore time. Faust is exactly that. I'll give him his in due time. Right now, we had an agreement. Lead the way, old friend.​

"​

Jayce's eyes rolled from the ceiling to the person directly in front of him. "You underestimate a man who parties for a living. The fool hasn't noticed a thing yet." Moving from the table, the young man's cloak whipped behind him, the destination was the second floor. This wasn't about respect or returning the favor, Faust had a debt to pay. Everything in Jayce's body was compelling him to seek revenge upon this individual. He believed it was because someone had wronged one of his only friends left in the galaxy, but this sensation was abnormal to him. Unbeknownst to the Grey Jedi, his irises returned to their crimson hue once more, the darkside fueling his motives.

The band continued to play, the song they were playing wasn't Figrin D'an and the Modal Nodes, it was something darker. When walking towards a table closest to the stairs, Jayce overheard someone saying that this was about the Bith's ex-soulmate, who apparently past away. Jayce's eyes closed and a smile cracked across his face. How fitting that a song about death would play, just as more murder was about to be committed. Climbing the steps, two bouncers watching the door examined the young man, their eyes unimpressed at what showed up to join the party. By the time Jayce's hand moved from under the cloak and back to the cloak, the guards were forced onto the wall. The door swung open, everyone's gaze falling upon him now.

There he was, in the back of the room with two Twi'lek girls surrounding him. Faust was a Rodian with teal skin and the same cosmic-like eyes as the rest of his species. Emerald and Sapphire lights shined all around the room, a blinding nuisance. The anger was rising, the force lashing out at the devices above, exploding and crashing to the floor. A few of the guests gasped, a couple of Trandoshans were reading their blasters and the bartender just sat there.

"Faust. Buddy. What's up?" Jayce speaking as he moved across the ballroom, the Rodian not moving but eyes darting to the exits. Faust motioned to his bodyguards to take down this threat approaching him. Bonk and Diesel, a couple of fully armored individuals, you couldn't really tell what species they were. They were big suckers though, heads almost grazing the ceiling. Jayce didn't waste anytime in his attack, lunging at the behemoths, his violet blade fully ignited. One of the great beasts grabbed him by his jacket, holding him up in the air. Jayce was shocked, his first reaction was to come up with something cleaver. "And here I thought we were becoming best friends," the Grey Jedi remarked, his saber ready to fall on the individual treating him like a newborn. Just as he was about to swing, the other monster of a man grabbed his wrist.

Faust stood up from his booth, clapping repeatedly. "Nice try Jedi."

Jayce eyes returned to their blue finish. He was in trouble.

[member="Orion Darkstar"]

 

[Orion Darkstar]

The grey jedi sprung up and forced himself up the steps before Orion could warn him of the dangers. It seemed that Jayce wasn't going to allow another criminal get away with shady dealings. Orion watched carefully as two guards were sent flying backwards. The crowd on the ground floor standing to look at what was taking place. Orion stood, closely following the grey jedi's movements before the Rodian came into view. Faust hadn't changed, his henchmen immediately ran towards Jayce to stop him. It was sickening that such slime actually had loyal soldiers that were far more dangerous than normal thugs. Each were experiments that endowed his men with strength beyond their limits. ​

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Jayce was unaware of Faust's malevolent acts behind closed doors, he walked right into the lion's den. Just as the vibrant hue of purple flashed before the top half of the floor, Orion darted towards a far table and jumped. His feet planted for only a few seconds before he jumped again and latched onto the silver beam protecting the top floor occupants. Orion's grip turned into a vault as he managed to get behind the giant brutes. Jayce swayed in the hands of Diesel, but before things got out of hand a ripple in the force saved the grey jedi. Orion's arm stretched fast and as quickly as he called on the force, it obeyed. A thick gust tore the glasses and tables asunder. It lifted Bonk and Diesel off the ground and into the thick of it. The resounding snap that bellowed out from the acolyte's palm froze the on lookers. ​

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Faust didn't waste time, the motion for his pistol came quicker than Orion thought. A beam of green lurched forward at him like a high speed train. Orion dropped to his knee and pulled a table to the front of him. The duraplast top stopping the deadly bolt. The long black strands of hair fell over his eyes as he pondered the outcomes in his mind. Orion refused to allow Faust to get away, but more goons were already on their way up the stairs. It was time to make a move instead of hiding behind a table. With his head hung low the only thing his eyes could see on the floor were tiny specks of broken glass. With each shot thundering its way closer and closer to melting through the table top, Orion flicked his head upright. He called on the force, this time for something simple, but sinister. He could feel the presence of an army of Faust's loyalists rushing up the steps. No longer would he be cornered like a dog. ​

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He rose, the once green irises of his vanished. A new sunset orange took over his eyes. as every speck of glass lifted to the air. The delicate shimmer that floated to the air remained still. Kicking the table with all his might it slid across the floor towards Faust. With a simple turn to Jayce, he gave the signal. The glass that lingered in the air waited for Orion's command, more bolts from the brainwashed followers firing in desperation. No longer, Orion snapped his fingers and like a magical torrent of elegance the sharp pieces of glass ruptured outwards. The torrent of deadly translucent spikes found their targets. The sudden silence that fell upon the cantina was blanketed in the blood of his enemies. The beautiful red that sprayed against the walls and floor was a masterpiece. ​

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Orion clenched his teeth, his jaw line indenting as he did. The vicious tangerine eyes fell upon Jayce. ​

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"Still with me, Jayce?" Orion asked, his voice calmer than before. ​

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[member="Jayce Vitalus"]​

 

[Jayce Vitulas]

Eyes shadowed the movements, the force spiraling towards the bodyguards, thrusting them backwards into the tables behind them. Shards of glass slipping their way into the skin of the experimental brutes. Orion demonstrated such ferocity, the anger swelling within him, Jayce was taken back by the raw power. The Sith wasn't finished yet, more pieces lifted into the air, ready to create havoc once more. Gazing at the Zelosian, watching the long black hair wave as he turned, gave the grey jedi a signal. Jayce took cover, crouching to the floor, hands covering the back of his skull. Shards zoomed through the air, right into the faces and bodies of Faust's supporters.

Crimson red flowed from the corpses scattered in the archway, touching Jayce's chin as it slithered forth. The young man looked up, turning his head to see the chaos behind him. This was different than cutting someone with a lightsaber, those wounds to cause blood to gush from the victim. Jayce has bled before, many times, but has never caused someone else to bleed. It was a gory mess, disgusting, but exciting. The neutral warrior was finding himself bubbling with energy once more.

"Still with me, Jayce?"​

The voice of Orion washed over the young man, it's calming nature was very surprising. Jayce's electric blue eyes glared up at the daunting Sith, the grey jedi greeted him with a smile. "Of course," he said with his teeth fully revealed. Rising from the blood soaked floor, a simple wipe of the chin, the residue smeared. Suddenly, Bonk stared to move again, his giant veiny hand moved. Glass protruding from his torso, the armor clanking as the beast shifted around. Grunting, pushing himself towards Orion, hands raised above his head.

In that moment, nothing else was relevant, nothing else could stop what was about to happen. Jayce rushed passed the Zelosian, calling upon the force to unleash his attack. Black tendrils of sparking light erupted from his fingertips. Electric judgement had ravaged Bonks body, electrocuting the giant, cooking him in his own armor. The large body began to spasm, swaying in every direction, gargling being the only sound leaving the monster's mouth. A technique that founded the bond between Jayce and Orion, the ability that had been made stronger since their last meeting, was finally being unleashed once more.

​

Faust ran through the bar, hoping the loyalists had taken care of the nuisances that were chasing him. When he traded information about the Krayt dragon, he didn't think anyone was stupid enough to believe him. The Rodian had no idea where this blighted creature was, but he did when credits were involved. The lady in black never said anything about a crazy Jedi coming after him, let alone two. One of them was the idiot who bought the information, the guy he was told about.

Dodging most of the commotion in the bar, Faust found his way out of the cantina. Gasping for breathe, he scanned for his frigate, a Tarrada class cruiser. A gift from the Hutts, a thank you for committing his years of service to their lifestyle. The crime world was incredibly generous to those who rarely failed in their duties. Faust had acquired impeccable details about a scheme that a member of the Hutt family was planning. Goda Gejalli Borga intended to poison a much older, leading member of the organization. Once the Rodian learned of this, he wasted no time in relating this to Zorba Reeta Smalto, who ended up killing Goda. The slug like creature confronted Goda about the act of treason, then Zorba had his guards fire laser bolts into his foolish nephew. Faust was rewarded with a ship of his choice.

His muscles were giving out from the strain of running, being an informant instead of a bounty hunter had left Faust out of shape. The breaths became more erratic, his cosmic eyes being lost due to the eyelids constantly closing. Suddenly, his communication device started to beep, answering, a cloaked individual in sparkling blue light was shown.

"Did you give the information as I had instructed?" The questioning voice probed.

"Of course I did, but now the poodoo lovers are chasing me," Faust bellowed at the hologram.

"Ah, I see. Well I'm sorry to say that we will be ending trade from here on out. When you get caught, please tell the man with the sapphire eyes that his master is looking for him. Thank you for your help." Faust's communicator went silent, the hue of the projection faded.

Faust looked at the device, questioning what was just said. When he gets caught? There was no way the Jedi had found him, nor were they close enough to get him in time. He was close to the outer edge of the town now, his ship just around the wall. The Rodian could taste freedom, unfortunately, fate had other plans. The frigate exploded right before his eyes, the shards of hope were crushed. Faust was directly in the blast radius, getting caught up in the fiery wraith. Flung backwards into a dirt pile, he was knocked unconscious, preventing any means of his escape.

​

The roasted corpse of Bonk stood motionless, smoke rising to the ceiling from the eye holes of his helmet. The durosteel armor proving to be more of a weakness, than an asset. Jayce was sure that Diesel wasn't as fortunate as his brother, but nothing could be left to chance. The young man walked passed Bonk, and stood before Diesel's body. Laying on the floor, blood oozing from multiple wounds. Jayce extended his hands once more, electrifying the defenseless figure. Legs twitched, but there were no screams. Once he was finished turning men into jerky, the young man turned to Orion, the crimson irises staring at the Sith.

"Shall we?" pointing at Faust running through the crowds of people in the cantina.

[member="Orion Darkstar"]

 

[Orion Darkstar]

"Shall we?"​

​

Orion watched as Jayce pointed towards Faust, running steadily for the exit. The crowds in the cantina were pushed aside by the foolish liar. The only issue was they were staring at him, not the one trying to get away. Orion knew that half of the people staring back at him were just as capable, capable of murder. They looked at him with judging eyes, as if they were better than him. They aren't. He thought, as he looked back to Jayce. ​

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"We shall." Orion said, as he started to walk. ​

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A blood trail was left from his footprints. The streaking red staining the marble floor as he continued towards the exit. His methodical counting churned in his head. He anticipated resistance after the mess he caused, but fright quickly took place of the astonishment on everyone's faces. To think that an act so brutal could give a man power in the eyes of criminals. Jayce did quick work of the other two abnormal guards, Diesel and Bonk. Not seeing the two of them ever again would be good for business. The two idiots were known as rage inducing, when it came to conversation. Some might have been happy they were gone. ​

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Orion reached the stunned crowd and slipped through. He was on guard just encase someone made a move. Instead, nothing came of it as he reached the far exit that Faust vanished behind. Orion bolted around the corner after him, the nightly breeze slamming into him like a torrent of ice. Tattooine never seized to amaze how annoyed it made him. The brisk air didn't matter, as his viridian eyes pierced through the locals and onto the Rodian. He sprinted for the first fence, leaping over it without effort. His agility was unmatched, but as quickly as he gained pace with Faust, bolts exploded from his gun. The hazy image of green and red barreled toward Orion. The two pistols doing good work, to prevent Orion from getting too close. ​

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Igniting the saber would cause more trouble out in the open. If any Jedi were undercover, the last thing he wanted was a way for Faust to really get out of sight. The Jedi would do anything to prevent a sith's success. Orion called on the force and jumped. He found a metal roof for his landing as he rolled along side it. He corrected his body, turning sideways as he slid and found his mark. A gun. ​

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Landing onto the weapon vendor's table he snatched up a pistol and fired back, bolts whizzing past. Orion clenched his teeth together as he aimed and fired. The blue bolt screamed across the desert sand, barley missing the elusive Faust. Orion hated guns, but droids were still worse. He ducked behind the table and waited, soon the pursuit would be over. ​

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[member="Jayce Vitalus"]​

 

[Jayce Vitulas]

"We shall."​

​

Following the sith, the individual in the establishment did nothing to stop the two. Every single one of them just standing around like mannequins in a shop. The act of violence in the floor above must have revealed to them, that they had no chance. Jayce’s crimson irises glaring at each of them, calling them out on their cowardice. The dark side, fueling his every move.

The journey towards the culprit known as Faust was a treacherous one indeed. His laser bolts whizzing by the young man’s black hair, the cloak soaring off as Jayce increased his speed. The onyx jacket with the black fiber vest fully revealed. The time for secrecy was over, now was the time for murder. Orion hadn’t ignited his saber, even with the Rodian’s green beams coming for his heart. Perhaps the sith knew something that the Grey Jedi did not.

Orion ducked for cover, grabbing a pistol for himself. Jayce had less charming ideas, igniting his violet saber and blocking the bolts of energy. A hit from one of those suckers in the chest and it’s game over. Emerald plasma deflected by lavender sweeps of the blade. It was hard to tell where Faust was going but losing him now would be an insult. They were so close to catching him, sweat building on Jayce's brow. Training on Dagobah gave him stamina, but the cold air made it hard to breathe.

The Rodian turned the corner of the large wall, which separated the desert from the village. It was now or never, Faust was sure to escape if he got on his ship. Jayce began to burst back into a sprint, looking to Orion to follow him now. The Grey Jedi’s saber, still ignited, shown the way. As he was about to exit the wall, a huge explosion illuminated the night. Skidding across the sand, Jayce was met with a starship on fire and Faust laying on the ground. Dust collection from his boots, choking upon it as he gently took his time walking to Rodian. This would a debt repayed to Orion, not for the help he needed now, no, it was for all those years ago.


The lightsaber painted violet over Faust’s motionless figure. Rage enveloped the young man’s body, telling him that it was time to end this. With the saber raised high, ready to come down like an ax to wood. His irises blood red, feeling anger and hatred rising up inside. The dark side taking hold once more, compelling him to bring the purple blade down. A voice inside shouting out, kill, kill, kill. It would be so simple, ending the life of this wretch.

[member="Orion Darkstar"]

 

[Orion Darkstar]

Orion rushed for another metal fence for cover. The loud hums and cracks of the bolts melting through fence after fence, gave Orion just enough time to distract Faust. It seemed the grey jedi caught on sooner, rather than later. A purple beam emerging on to the streets of Tattooine like a torrent of vicious anger. It was odd to see such fluent emotion in Jayce as he reached the criminal whelp. Orion stepped out from behind the cover and smiled. It was his lucky day. All of this for a stupid Krayt Dragon, it was truly a shame. ​

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Then in the middle of the pursuit, a volcano of fire erupted into the night sky, the cumulonimbus clouds spreading like a plague. A combustive wave of metal and sand scattered across the sand. Orion slowed his pace, Faust's ship had exploded. The electrical discharges popping off in the distance. Orion walked towards the grey jedi, the thin violet stream of plasma hanging over the incapacitated, Faust. He looked to Jayce, he seemed unbalanced. It was almost looking into the mirror, the expression of festering want. Orion ignored it, instead, he knelled down and patted the pockets of Faust. Rolling the criminal over he reached into the back of his pockets. ​

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A tiny white crumbled piece of paper. He saw a few words highlighted on the page. Zorba and Lady in Black. The yellow tinted print hurt his eyes, so he lifted it to Jayce for him to read. Orion glanced down at the Rodian and spotted something more revealing. It was a Hutt symbol, something only given to those that did their dirty work. Orion grabbed it from his waist and continued to search. If the page he handed to Jayce wasn't going to be helpful, maybe something else would. Orion knew one thing, someone dumb enough to get in deep with Hutts, meant far more trouble later on. Just being associated with Faust could cause problems. ​

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He stopped for a slight second and looked at the inflamed ship. The churning black smoke rose to the air as the fire roared. He tried to figure out why. Clenching the Hutt symbol in his hand, he looked back to the ship. Were they connected? Orion thought. If they were, why would the Hutts destroy his ship after helping them? The question remained and for all they both knew, it wasn't just the Hutts they had to worry about. ​

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Orion looked up at Jayce, the violet saber still hanging over him. ​

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"What's the paper say? Also, put that thing away, we want to get out of here before everyone comes to check out the explosion."​

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It was a true statement, if they wanted to get out free and clear, they would have to be fast about it. Fleeing the scene of a exploding ship, could get them in even more trouble. Orion shifted his attention back to Faust, checking his pulse he was still alive. If they couldn't get answers from the paper or the things on him, Faust was in for one hell of a ride. ​

​

[member="Jayce Vitalus"]​

 

[Jayce Vitulas]

The anger was swelling inside of him, Jayce looked upon the Rodian, eager to bring the blade down upon the cretin. There was something else pulling at the young man, fear. The breeze swirled around him, the midnight black hair fluttering to the side. Even though the air was cool, sweat began to pour from the brow. Jayce felt conflict within, he had given himself to the dark side, something that he sworn would never happen again. The saber shook within his hands, memories of the past flooding back in.

Dagobah, two weeks ago.​

Night had come, the swamp croaking and chirping from the surrounding nightlife. Sweat drips down from the brow, the day’s training session was finally over, the year had finally ended. The muscles had grown stronger since the day he had arrived. The ghost of Monarch was but a distant memory, he had become one with the force at last. Jayce stood there, looking at his ship, the visions of the future still in his mind. It had changed, and so had the young man.

The force rushed within him, feeding his body with the power that he sought. If he was to defeat the enemy, he needed someone he could trust and whom was equally as strong. Only one name came to mind, but it was best that he kept it to himself. Boarding the Dragon’s Lightning, the grey jedi walked to his cabin, the idea of freshening up was pleasant thought. The hands cupping water from the sink, then proceeding to splash it onto his face. Looking into the mirror, his face changed before him, crimson irises replacing their original electric blue finish.

The false Jayce began to talk, a face corrupted by the dark side, pale skin and wrinkles. “How long do you think you can fight your destiny? I am what you need to be to win. I am the piece that you reject.” The irises getting bright and brighter, filling the real Jayce with rage. His fist rising into the air and smashing into the mirror, shattering the glass. It was undeniable, the dark side offered more than the light ever could, it also freed him of the burden. All his life, he used both the light and the dark to fight his battles, but it was the dark side that kept him alive. Why should he fight what saved his life so many time?

Returning to the present​

Gripping the saber tightly, he wanted it to slice Faust’s head clean off his shoulders. Jayce was interrupted by Orion, who had been poking at the body, looking for clues. A piece of paper is what caught the grey jedi’s attention, the sith asking for him to read it. Jayce grabbed it with the left hand, gazing upon it, he knew who’s writing this was. The yellow tint, a signature marker. Zorba Reeta Smalto, the leading member of the Hutt council. The young man had done some work for this slim ball before, the credits were straight poodoo.

“What’s the paper say?” Orion questioned.

After your business on Tatooine is concluded, please return to Nar Shaddaa, I have another mission for you. The Lady in Black will also be present, keep your mouth shut this time. I don't want her getting angry again.

Orion made a comment about the lightsaber still in Jayce’s right hand, still ignited. The violet blade receded back into the hilt, the young man read the letter out loud soon after. “I believe we have some questions for Zorba the Hutt. I don’t know who this lady in black is. Perhaps we should take Faust with us.” Jayce’s teeth grinded, he wanted the Rodian dead, but his usefulness might not be over yet.

[member="Orion Darkstar"]​

 

[Orion Darkstar]

Orion listened to Jayce, if taking Faust was what needed to happen than they had to act faster. Orion gripping onto the belt and unhinged it. Tossing it closer to the explosions center. Then he ripped some of the clothing and a necklace off of Faust's unconscious body. In orderly fashion he tossed those closer to the explosion as well. Looking to Jayce, before the question arose he spoke. ​

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"That should make them think he died from the explosion, might do us a little good." ​

​

Orion heaved him upward and over his shoulder. He waited for a moment and turned towards the other side of the flaming ship. In the distance he spotted a small narrow walkway. The tiny alley would be perfect for interrogating Faust. Not only that Orion had more questions about the paper he found. Like, why Faust had to be lugged around with them to begin with. Or who the hell, Zorba and the Lady in Black was. This wasn't just a normal case, in a way Orion had become a detective. Whatever Jayce was involved with clearly had giant ramifications. The only thing that was terrible about the whole thing, at least to Orion, was someone crossed him because of it. ​

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He didn't like it, not one bit. In fact, whoever was behind such mischievous acts had something coming to them. The only real threat, would be the young sith that stood before Jayce. Pointing to the small alleyway, Orion made a break for it before anyone spotted them. As he ran the heaviness of Faust began to wear him down and just as he reached the opening to the alleyway he stopped and caught his breath. Even as physically fit as he was carrying another man was still a chore. Walking the rest of the way through the remaining sand, he spoke to Jayce as he followed. ​

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"So what the heck is going on. What did you get me into?" Orion finally slipped into the alleyway with Jayce. Bending down he placed the body lightly on the cold hard cobblestone below. The brick buildings squeezed them into a dark crevice hidden away from the rest of the world. Trash tins and random broken pallets of wood leaned against the cold brick walls. "Most of all, who the hell is Zorba and the Lady in Black. I saw it on the paper before handing it to you." Orion waited, crossing his arms in frustration. ​

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[member="Jayce Vitalus"]​