Faction (DH) Twilight of Light

[Seo Linn]

Vulpesen moved at the front, boots crunching over jagged stones, senses honed against the unnatural pull of the Netherworld. Behind him, Diarch Rellik, Kas Larsen, Riku Anima, and Lan-Dai Navras followed in cautious formation, each attuned to the shift in the air, the faint hum, the subtle tug at their minds, the almost imperceptible shimmer that danced at the edge of perception.

The Rift loomed ahead, a swirling tear of darkness that seemed to breathe, its edges flickering like living shadows. A chill wind whispered through the jagged cliffs, carrying echoes of voices that weren't there, promises of fear, whispers of failure. The Netherworld did not simply imprison; it ensnared, bent, and toyed with all who died.

Every step felt like a challenge to their will. Even from this distance, the pull of its power gnawed at thoughts and memories, teasing doubt and fear. And yet, Vulpesen pressed forward, a steady anchor in the chaos, his gaze locked on the Rift. The mission was clear: Seo Linn had to be retrieved. She had to be brought back.

The group exchanged tense glances, unspoken questions lingering in the cold air. Would she even recognize them through the veil of the Netherworld's grasp? Had it already begun to twist her thoughts, to test her strength as it would theirs?

Beyond the threshold, shadows writhed and shimmered with intent. Somewhere in that darkness, Seo Linn waited—or perhaps struggled, caught in a trap none of them could yet see.

Vulpesen paused at the edge of the Rift, lifting a hand to signal the others. The time for caution had passed. Together, they would step into the Netherworld, their unity their only shield against the horrors that waited.

Vulpesen Diarch Rellik Riku Anima Kas Larsen Lan-Dai Navras

 

[Diarch Rellik]

The wind carried crisply across the entry of the rift. As if it was not effected by the swirling tear of darkness. An object that did not belong here in our world. Rellik stood a few paces behind Vulpesen, the long hem of his cloak drawn. His eyes squinting looking at the door to the nether. "Fascinating," he murmured, voice low, almost reverent.

His gaze shifted to the others, Kas, Riku, Lan-Dai, measuring them. Vulpes carried himself well in the duel with Rellik's brother Diarch Reign - and reports of his actions against the Imperials and their new death star were commendable. There was some built faith in his skill from those events. The others though, hopefully through out the journey he could figure out where they stand.

For the Diarch, the deal was simple. A chance to explore dangerous grounds with a guide. To study the Nether and perhaps learn new ways to counter the whills of the force. Maybe there are clues to his fathers disappearance. The possibilities for science and dark magic were boundless. In return, all he had to do was help them retrieve a friend. An honorable goal.

He looked once more into the wound in space. A looming breathing presence looking back into the Diarch's fiery gold eyes. Awaiting his guide and the others to be ready. Rellik's stance and concentration on the rift made his want to enter obvious.

Vulpesen Riku Anima Kas Larsen Lan-Dai Navras Seo Linn

 

[Vulpesen]

Vulpesen glanced back at the party that had gathered behind him. For most, the idea of entering the rift was unthinkable. It was literally walking into hell. But for Vulpesen, this was far from his first venture, and for his friends, it was unlikely to be the last. He would skip in backwards if the occasion called for it. "Unless I'm mistaken, we're all capable of using the force here. The second you step past the threshold, don't. I know its natural and I know its a part of you. But the Netherworld is finicky about the essence of life. Try to lift a pebble and it might turn into a grenade."

His hands moved to readjust his coat as it rested on his shoulder. He didn't dare risk wearing his usual cloak into the other side. Its runes might well turn him into an arrakit or some other creature with no way to return. "And I don't think this needs to be said, but don't get separated. The netherworld is a big place and there's only one way out. Finding Seo will be hard enough. Finding the exit without your living compass," he pointed at his own chest, "will be nigh impossible."

Riku Anima Kas Larsen Lan-Dai Navras Seo Linn Diarch Reign Diarch Rellik

 

[Kas Larsen]

​

"I'm a Jedi Sentinel, using everything in my arsenal to keep the peace."

TAGS: Seo Linn | Vulpesen | Diarch Rellik | Lan-Dai Navras | Diarch Reign | Riku Anima
EQUIPMENT: Kas' Gear | Echo Stone
CURRENT LOCATION: Netherworld | The Rift
OBJECTIVE: Enter the Netherworld | Accompany the Team | Rescue Seo

This was a totally new experience for Kas as the realm of the Netherworld came across as a Legend, stories and myths from most who spoke about it. He hadn't heard from or seen Seo for a long, long time ever since they had studied and trained together in learning a few abilities and skills together as Jedi. She is someone Kas cared about, a close friend, perhaps more...

"I'll not wander off and will stay close within our team."

Kas wouldn't be able to rely on the Force after Vulpesen advised everyone within the team that it is far too dangerous and risky to perform any abilities from the Force itself. Pure mindset and skill will need to suffice here as the young Jedi would continue in his journey to find Seo. To do it for her, her family and friends. Bring her out of the Netherworld to safety and let her live a full life.

"How can we find Seo in this realm? I know this won't be easy but nothing ever is and I'll give it my best to contribute in helpful manners."

Kas questioned in how the team will manage to locate Seo but then more questions will arise. What state will they find her in? Can they get her out safely? Who knows but there remains faith and hope within Kas. He never gives up on family or friends. This task before him will surely be a true test for Kas to undergo. Not just as a Jedi but as an individual too.

 

[Riku Anima]

Riku stared at the tare as they approached mind racing she knew this was not a place for the living. She could tell this just from the way it felt, something didn't feel right to her about it. Like so many things she did she did them because it was what she knew to be right and saving a friend that was the right cause. Listening to the explanation of what to do and not do do she questioned safety with her there. She would do her best to control herself but when she went out of control she could not anticipate that.

"Understood I will do what I can and stay with the group." her voice was hesitant but her conviction was true and she stepped up close to them all. she touched her sabers briefly and she sighed.

"Seo we are coming" She whispered towards the tare as she watched it ready to go through not sure what to expect on the other side but ready to fight and get everyone taken care of.
Seo Linn Vulpesen Kas Larsen Diarch Rellik Lan-Dai Navras

 

[Lan-Dai Navras]

A small and unlikely entourage found itself jointly treading towards an unfamiliar terrain for most, yet for one in particular this was simply one more trek to add to his story. Lan-Dai now found himself accompanying Riku, his new ally, Vulpesen, the one Seo had sent them to, and now two others unfamiliar to him: Diarch Rellik and Kas Larsen.

The circumstances were not the best for any proper and formal introductions for any involved in this venture. The only binding factor that brought them together and currently held them that way was the fact that they were all about to enter a Rift that would in ways still elusive to Lan-Dai, bring Seo Linn back to a physical living state.

The pull of the Rift was undeniable, Lan-Dai began to perceive a strong sense of spatial displacement that seemed to intensify with each step forward. This sensation was not powerful enough to shake Lan-Dai from his focus, and in his mind the sensation was his body’s reaction to the emanating pull of the Rift. Even in his unprimely state, Lan-Dai blatantly refused to back down, to show weakness, or to falter when his brief ally now needed his help after she had graciously offered him hers. Adjusting his own jacket, Lan-Dai heard the core of Vulpesen’s instructions to not use the Force in any capacity and to always stay together after crossing over.

Briefly musing over the unfortunate fact that any use of the Force was discouraged, Lan-Dai realized that he was at what may be a high disadvantage. While he had access to the Force and could use it fairly well, he also relied on the gear and equipment his utility belt had to offer. Given the circumstances after his duel on Dorsis, Lan-Dai was now without his belt, his blasters, or his armor as they were all confiscated from him after the duel ended and he was medically attended. The only item he carried with him now was a backup copy of his lightsaber, one that his droid carried and now had returned.

All he could do was nod in agreement and acknowledgment as Lan-Dai found himself trusting his counsel, yet saying nothing as thus far there was no need to. Now he patted the lightsaber safely clasped at his side, ready to do his part in whatever it was that lay ahead.

 

[Diarch Rellik]

Rellik's gaze narrowed slightly as each of them spoke. He listened, measured, and took note of every reaction around him without interrupting. Then he stepped closer toward the threshold, boots settling just at the lip of the tear. That subtle static brushed over his skin again, off putting and devoid.

His cloak shifted and faded off his shoulders on its own. Wrapping itself around the Diarch's spear and folding neatly on the ground nearby. Looking more like a banner than anything else.

Where the Diarch often carried a visible convergence of both the light and dark, now there was only a man in a simple robe with nyxxweave underlay. Rellik focused on suppressing himself to the force. Something he got accustomed to feeling after Darth Prazutis's blade scared his face. He would not risk provoking this realm's or his guides rules.

He kept his posture relaxed, hands clear, and doing his best to keep a calm focused demeanor.

"I am ready. I will follow the rules given."

Vulpesen Kas Larsen Riku Anima Lan-Dai Navras Seo Linn

 

[Vulpesen]

"How can we find Seo in this realm? I know this won't be easy but nothing ever is and I'll give it my best to contribute in helpful manners."

Vulpesen winced a bit at the question. Entirely fair and certainly the crux of their issue. Wherever Seo was, she certainly wasn't standing at the entrance. Hardly a surprise. A vast infernal land made with the intent of house the fallen throughout eternity. It would be like finding a single marble in the Tatooine desert. "By taking a risk."

His instructions had been clear. But as he walked, Vulpesen reached out. He leaned on that constant buzz in his mind which was nearly deafening now that he was so close to one of the Netherportals. He focused on it and used it as a conduit. The Netherworld seemed to hate the force, but maybe if he came to it as something more familiar, it would let him pass.

The result was like reaching into an oil drum for a dropped spanner. A sensation of cold grime filled his being and he shuddered at the sensation. Suppressing a gag, Vulpesen pushed forward. He was the Archon of the Vitae sect, a wilder faction devoted to life itself. And now, he was reaching into the bowels of death. It was contrary to everything he was and it showed. But still, he persisted. "Where are you?" With that single question, he reached out and a pulse of force energy, low but reverberating left his body, spreading through the surroundings as his consciousness expanded. "Slight chance we'll have company. No idea if it'll be friendly or not. Hopefully. I have no idea if the dead can die to a lightsaber," he grunted as his mind drifted outwards more and more.

Kas Larsen Riku Anima Lan-Dai Navras Diarch Rellik Seo Linn

 

[Riku Anima]

Riku felt the unease of death but it didn't bother her the strain on her body didn't seem to matter to her either. The fact she couldn't feel pain was both a blessing and a curse. It was one that her ship monitored for her so she didn't over do it while training or working around the ship or if her seizers got to bad. This was her only concern for in there is if one happened at some point she prayed for luck to be on her side for the sake of her companions.

She was surprised with such a danger that Vulpesen would have had her come along. he must of had his reasons and she accepted that fact as she stared into the breach into the nether. "Are we sure the dead can die?" She asked after Vulpesen's last statement. Her hands rested on her sabers if they couldn't die they could be at least made small though she wasn't sure if that was a good idea either.

Lan-Dai Navras Kas Larsen Diarch Reign Seo Linn

 

[Lan-Dai Navras]

As they neared the open gateway, a viable concern came across the mind of an Emerallian. The concern that one among them may involuntarily place herself and perhaps the rest of them in unintended danger. While grateful for the new alliances that now lay available before him, if only for this endeavor, one of them had only recently displayed a solid cause for concern.

Lan-Dai briefly turned his gaze towards Riku, the one responsible for having saved him from a muder attempt alongside Seo Linn, the one whom they now were trying to rescue from death itself. Moments after arriving Riku had experienced a Force fueled seizure, one that actually was felt by those around her that were sensitive to the Force, such as Lan-Dai himself, Vulpesen, and the entourage that accompanied him. A lingering worry became apparent, should Riku experience another seizure while inside the rift it could be counterproductive and detrimental to the mission at hand and all involved.

Breathing as regulated as possible, Lan-Dai took it upon himself to specifically make his way over to Riku and place a gentle, reassuring hand on her shoulder in a gesture of support.

“Stay close to me…. And concentrate….”

Lan-Dai said in a low and stoic tone as it would be expected of him, yet there was a palpable hint of comfort and reassurance that denoted he was offering himself as an anchor should Riku need it while inside the rift.
Keeping pace with the impromptu party, Lan-Dai walked closer and closer towards the gateway, keeping Riku within his immediate vicinity and line of sight.

 

[Kas Larsen]

​

"I'm a Jedi Sentinel, using everything in my arsenal to keep the peace."

TAGS: Vulpesen | Diarch Rellik | Riku Anima | Lan-Dai Navras | Seo Linn
EQUIPMENT: Kas' Gear | Echo Stone
CURRENT LOCATION: Netherworld | The Rift
OBJECTIVE: Enter the Netherworld | Accompany the Team | Rescue Seo

Kas' mind went up in regards to Vulpesen mentioning in taking a risk - his awareness and guard increased. Alongside due to his Epicanthix traits while being part Keshian too - the natural abilities Kas possessed mentally a barrier and shield had formed to avoid degrading impacts of entering, wandering the Netherworld with the Taskforce he joined. In his heart Seo was indeed more than a close friend and Kas will do everything he can to bring her back, not only to him but to her family as well.

"Alright I'll stick close and be mindful of what we encounter. I hope the rest of us came prepared."

Kas hoped he was prepared as one could be when committing to such acts and words he stated while undertaking this rescue mission. The young man of a Padawan Learner from the Jedi Order kept his hands near what arsenal he took with him. Better being well-equipped for anything and everything no matter what he faces. It was time to trust in his instincts and initiative the Force was not ideal in these parts. A true test for Kas and with what he commits to contributions in the team he hopes will do some good.