Into the Jungle | CIS Dominon of M'haeli

[Ascendant Muse]

INTO THE​

J U N G L E​

Even proximity begets change.

In the beginning, the ruling fist of mankind clutched the quiet world of M'haeli. So far removed was this planet from the most powerful entities in the Galaxy that the native Humans acted in a manner far removed from their name. Upon this world was a species which pre-dated the overlords - a gifted and blessed race known as the H'drachi. Since well before the Four Hundred Year Darkness, they attempted to live in peace and harmony with the land. Yet, when Humanity set foot upon the jungled world, the natives found themselves subject to the sting of avarice. All too quickly, they suffered under the heel of oppression - and for many, many years, there seemed to be no end to their suffering.

Change came in the form of an ideal which exploded like wildfire. The ideal of self-determination unified systems a mere stone's throw away from the troubled M'haeli. Together, they grew into a mighty Confederacy of Independent Systems and welcomed all who neighbored their borders to share in the bounties of true freedom. This nation was benevolent in many ways, but they would not suffer certain atrocities. Chief amongst them being the oppression of innocent lives underneath the boot of another. And, as the borders of the Confederacy grew within mere inches of M'haeli, the ruling class of Humanity knew the end was nigh. They had a choice to make: either change willingly or suffer the eventual judgment of the Confederacy.

The ruling class chose wisely - and word soon reached the Confederacy's ears of a freshly liberated people. The tribla H'drachi flung open the gates to their tribelands and welcomed the neighbor which had been responsible for their liberation. The sections of jungle which were once fiercely protected and isolated were now open for the Southern Systems to explore. The Confederacy, in turn, poured out its blessings upon M'haeli and welcomed the world into the fold. As a result, their first gift to the jungle-covered planet was to bring a fresh source of income to its people. For too long, primative technologies had been at the disposal of the Humans and the H'drachi alike. Thus, the Confederacy began with the erection of a point of interest: The Z'mbali Lodge.

Here, in the heart of the H'drachi Tribelands, modern comforts came alive. A series of waterfalls had been selected to be the locale for this momentous undertaking; and in a few short months, the resort was open for business. Vibrant structures adorned the clifftops, affording a breathtaking view of the forested Tribelands below. And, at the base of the falls were numerous opportunities to dive into the chilled swimming holes. The Lodge offered M'haeli a chance at a prosperous tomorrow...and moreover, offered the battle-tested warriors of the Confederacy an opportunity to breathe anew.

Spoiler: Objectives

Blessed by the Force, the H'drachi formed a unique relationship with the passage of time. Through the rituals they keened over time, their Truth Sayers cultivated the ability to view snippets of the future with utmost accuracy. It is assumed that they even foresaw the Confederacy's rise - and therefore patiently awaited their passive liberation. As a show of gratitude to the southern systems, a cadre of Truth Sayers have beckoned the willing to a mammoth cavern behind the Falls. Here, a roaring bonfire has been lit, where several of their kind sit in wait of their offworld guests. The Sayers offer a choice. One may join them at the fireside and be rewarded with a glimpse of their future. Or. One may venture into the Caverns, where the spirits of the dead await. Here, the choice of witnessing the future or coming to terms with one's past is laid bare - which will you decide?​

One of the most iconic sights of the Tribelands are the Falls. Rushing perpetually from above, the Falls have filled several swimming holes with crystal-clear, vibrant waters. Some may choose to take a dip within these refreshing depths - whilst others may see this as an opportunity to explore. For, over the course of centuries, the Falls have created a number of winding caverns both underwater and behind their cascade. How will you spend the day? Will you take a dip? Hunt for treasures lost within the caverns? Or even hike through the surrounding jungles? The choices are yours!​

The Z'mbali Lodge itself resembles the very best that the Confederacy has to offer. Located above the Falls, one of the pinnacle features is an underwater restaurant serving brunch at this particular hour. One can find all the trappings of a five-star resort at the Lodge, from a poolside lounge (featuring an open bar), to a full-fledged spa. Here, the best and brightest of the Confederacy can show the H'drachi what it means to be apart of their community, whilst recovering from the hard-fought battles which built it. How will you explore the Lodge?​

Spoiler: Tag

[member=A'Runda]
[member="Akabane"]
[member="Alden Akaran"]
[member="Alkor Centaris"]
[member="Alora Fae"]
[member="Alwine Lechner"]
[member="Amarant deWinter"]
[member="Amaya Cardei"]
[member="Amelia von Sorenn"]
[member="Amethyst Atreides"]
[member="Amethyst Sovereign"]
[member="Anya Malvern"]
[member="Arabella Darkhold"]
@Archim Calixis
[member="Ari Zanareth"]
[member="Arlox"]
[member="Aston Jacobs"]
[member="Aya Clarke"]
[member="Azmodan"]
[member="Betty Americus"]
@Braan Kell
[member="Bandit Six"]
[member="Caesar Kenway"]
[member="Callisa Asran"]
[member="Cardinal Vi'dreya"]
[member="Carith Thelcar"]
[member="Chikako Liona"]
[member="Cim Salro"]
[member="Corvus Dravere"]
[member="Daisy Americus"]
[member="Damsy Callat"]
[member="Danger Arceneau"]
[member="Daniel Americus"]
[member="Dalton Kenway"]
[member="Darth Tacitus"]
[member="Darth Timorem"]
[member="Darth Novus"]
[member="Daxton Bane"]
[member="Dhakarta"]
[member="Dianah Vi'Dreya"]
[member="Drauchir"]
[member="Ecthelion Aiglos"]
[member="Efried Halbrecht"]
[member="Ella Nova"]
[member="Erin Tenel"]
[member="Fawn Alzi"]
[member="Gerwald Lechner"]
[member="Gray Venasir"]
[member="Hajrah Marjanah"]
[member="Isarn Apis"]
[member="Ithiel Vi'Dreya"]
[member="Jade"] Isara
[member="Jayce Pryde"]
[member="Jennifer Blanchard"]
[member="Jorco Czeku"]
[member="Jorge"]
[member="Josh Dragonsflame"]
[member="Jyoti Nooran"]
[member="Kalee Bladesworn"]
[member="Kaptan Americus"]
[member="Karlie Lynn Destat"]
[member="Kasca Fen"]
[member="Katrine Van-Derveld"]
[member="Kayla Wylen"]
[member="Keva"]
[member="Kiff Brayde"]
[member="Kingsley"]
[member="Kip Ridel"]
[member="Kurayami Bloodborn"]
[member="Kurenai Yumi"]
[member="Kwelin Orlov"]
[member="Kyber"]
[member="Kyrinov"]
[member="Lefwen Claskier"]
[member="Lirka Ka"]
[member="Luna Terrik"]
[member="Luna Vega"]
[member="Lyla Quinn"]
[member="Mallory Bash"]
[member="Maple Harte"]
[member="Marek Starchaser"]
[member="Mauer"]
[member="Minerva Vessia"]
@Naria Varos
[member="Muad Dib"]
[member="Nine Lives"]
[member="Orion Trex"]
[member="Osintrium"]
[member="Petra Cavataio"]
[member="Qaarssk Roark"]
[member="Razelle Breuner"]
[member="Riley Reese"]
[member="Roy Americus"]
[member="Rylan Kordel"]
[member="Samantha Jade"]
[member="Scherezade deWinter"]
[member="Shalita Vi'dreya"]
[member="Sola Marr"]
[member="Sor-Jan Xantha"]
[member="Srina Talon"]
[member="Taramaz Laurs"]
[member="Tex Americus"]
[member="Teyla Ee'everwest"]
[member="Thalira Kiing"]
[member="Tmoxin Temi"]
[member="Traveler"]
[member="Treiades Rhoujen"]
[member="Valencia Hadley"]
[member="Varick Lechner"]
[member="Veronika Fleischer"]
[member="VildarnTentoria"]
[member="Voph"]
[member="Vyra Silara"]
[member="Zhai'ellev"]

 

[Kyyrk]

[youtube]https://youtu.be/7jXHHgwa0ow[/youtube]​

​

Objective: Get some much needed RnR​

Location: Underwater Restaurant​

Wearing: This with White undershirt, black pants, and black leather calf-length boots. His newly forged twin lightsabers are stashed in sleeves sown into the vest back, over the shoulder blades.​

Tags: None yet​

​

Voph laid at the edge of the water, his breathing slow as he rested in the ambient roar of the nearby falls. He had traveled here along with the rest of the Confederacy to lend aid to building this lodge. Or at least as much aid as he could give, what with his injuries sustained during the recent skirmish on Kuat. Voph could still smell the flame, still hear the roar of the explosion when he quieted his mind. Perhaps that was why he found the falls so calming. It took his mind off things.

Voph was dressed in a simple tunic, forgoing his usual robe in favor of something more...practical, yet stylish. He was, after all, supposed to be on medical rest. His long white hair was pulled into a simple ponytail, spilling down past the mantle he wore across his empty eye sockets. He might have passed for asleep, until he stirred, and rose from his chair. He grimaced, and a hand shot to his side as he stood. Pain flashed through him as his wounds screamed for being disturbed. But it faded soon as always. He was used to it.

Voph walked towards the main building, deciding that he'd best find something to eat. Perhaps someone to speak with. Surely he was not the only being stirring around the resort. Particularly around breakfast time. He walked stiffly, most of his joints still sore from the bomb, but he was walking. It was more than could be said for others. Voph stepped into the dining hall to witness the wait staff milling about preparing for the onslaught of guests. He gestured wordlessly and was led to a table next to one of the windows. If he was joined, he was sure it would make a lovely view for his companion. If not, he could have a rather enjoyable meal in solitude, before going to explore the rest of the resort...

 

[Chikako Liona]

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Objective: Swim and have fun
Location: Water Edge
Attire: Once again her beach outfit
People: No one probably

Now this, this was what she wanted, the deep green world, full of many different plants and animals, fresh water rivers and falls dotting many places, a strong connection to the force, this is what she wanted Tythe to become. The process was slow but slowly her world was becoming green and well bit by bit, it was joyful to have a sense of what home would be like coming here, relaxing and taking ones mind await from the constant bureaucratic dealings everyday. It would also be one of the first times she was allowed leave without and escort, the far away planet and welcoming people putting her royal guard at ease for once letting the still young princess free to do what she wanted on what seemed more or less like a huge welcoming party for the CIS and it's members.

Perhaps once she was done enjoying the natural swimming hole a tour of these caves deeper into the jungle would be useful, she wondered if the people their could give a glimpse into her and the planet of Tythe's future, provide some sort of aid in her ruling, or at the least a good message for what her rule would accomplish. All in due time, this place was not going anywhere and the night was still young, one should not rush themselves if not needed, time was R&R after all.

 

[ToKola Bakari]

Objective: BYOO {Defeat the H’drachi Warriors}
Location: M'haeli Wildlands
Tags: [member="Anansi M'bali"] [member="Uthixo Nazim"]
Post: I

It was true that the H'drachi had invited The Confederacy to their lands under a banner of peace. Yet, there was no better way to solidify a true peace, than through ritual combat. The planet of M'haeli was thick and lust, filled with life and a Savage connection to the gods. On this planet, a warrior could feel the push and pull of The Force as vividly as the breath within his chest. The H'drachi had requested The Confederacy send three warriors to enter the ritual. In the end, Cardinal had been chosen to lead this venture. Usually the warrior would have selected two of his best from the Knight's Obsidian, but not this time. No, this time he had chosen his own kind. Not just warriors, but men whose bloodline ran from the same rivers and mountains as his own.

The trio had been escorted through the jungle by one of the H'drachi runners. The journey did not take long, perhaps a half a day at best. When finally they arrived, they found themselves overlooking a beautiful sight. A cliff that dwarfed the lands around it, giving those upon it a clear view of the sea of green and brown that stretched out for miles.

The cliffs were lined with torches that were alight with eerie emerald flames. These torches extended for miles, until the eyes could no longer hope to see their end.

Cardinal had been kneeling by the cliffs. They'd been waiting for the H'drachi Elders for some time, still it was worth it to get a chance to look over these lands. Footsteps caused the warrior to turn back, his eyes resting on a number of shadows appearing from the brush. The H'drachi were smaller than Cardinal and his group. Few of them even reached six feet in height and where the Sandali were muscle and mass, the H'drachi seemed lithe, to the point where their elders were painfully gaunt. The first to emerge were their women, who wore shortly hemmed dresses of various colors. They moved towards the Sandali, each of them carrying a wooden bowl filled with some green powder. Cardinal looked around, the H'drachi screamers, their most fearsome warriors, created a loose encirclement around the cliffs, their pale spears raised to the heavens. Cardinal's sunburnt eyes looked from one, to another, until one of their women came to him with a knife in hand. He eyed her closely but said nothing, as the blade was not bared against him. It pressed into his shirt, cutting the fabric from his body and ultimately leaving his chest bare.

They muttered some silent prayer or blessing before powdering the man's chest in the green mixture. It had a chalky smell to it, but it seemed to have no obverse effects. The women would do this to Anansi and Uthixo as well, preparing the men for combat in the way of their people. Only once this was done would one of the H'drachi Elders finally step forward, his frame frail but his voice still had power to it.

“Honored warriors.” He said, in a broken, yet understandable Basic tongue.

“You fight, we fight. You feast, we feast. You rest, we rest. When the sun rises again. We come together as one.” He raised his hands to the skies and the screamers made true to their name. Each of the warrior let off one proud call, all together it was a thunderous yell. Cardinal watched the display with a proud mind, but a focused one. His focus was for the enemy he was to face.

The elder turned back to his warriors, nine men who had all been prepared for battle in the same way the Sandali had. They were fearsome, sure. Each of their bronze faces had been ashed with the green powder to give them a ghoulish appearance, but still they were small men.

“Now. Sandali warrior. You, choose. Any three.” The Elder gestured to the men as if displaying them for his consideration. Cardinal looked to the men with a slight smile before his eyes turned to Anansi and Uthixo. They were likely all thinking the same thought, so it would be best to skip the formalities.

“We'll fight them all.” Cardinal said with a smirk as he stepped forward, slamming his fist into his chest while he grunted out at the men who were lined up against them. The Elder said nothing, instead he would merely bow his head before moving out of the combat area. The screamers let out another proud shriek as the women returned, this time carrying weapons for the warriors to fight with. One of the women brought Cardinal a wooden club, presenting it to him kindly. The warrior took the club into his hands. It was not a weapon he was used to, but the weight behind it was refreshing and a boon to his strength. He looked back to the others, leveling the wooden club in his hands as the nine warriors approached them.

“Mayelfa!” He grunted, raising his club up towards the warriors in challenge. The H'drachi were fast, and in the next moment they descended on the men.

 

[Alkor Centaris]

Location: M'haeli, Cavern behind the Falls
Objective: Seek the Past.
Allies: Confederacy

The H'drachi had warned him before he entered. Doubtful, wavering eyes failed to match his gaze as half-hearted words sought to sway him. They had seen his past, his future, and even the Truth Seers of the H'drachi understood that some men were better off living in the present. Alkor dismissed the notion with a silent shake of his head.

It was not a failure of his memory that spurred Alkor forward. It was not for a lack of understanding, nor was it the intention to come to grips with a horrific childhood. Alkor knew what he was, who he was, and from whence he came. Perhaps that was what made the locals so uncomfortable.

"These exercises are meant for those who struggle to overcome the past," one of them explained softly, "not for those who have been shaped and molded into a cast they are content with. When you look upon the past, windows of the soul should open."

Alkor took his seat before the fire, and the H'drachi cast an offering of red and golden sand onto the flames. Smoke billowed around the Corellian exile as he closed his eyes and sank backward into his thoughts, inhaling deeply. The world blurred as the darkness behind his eyelids became the vastness of space, and he could see all of the countless stars, their number growing immeasurably as the dead were reborn and cast back into existence by the backward flow of time. His breath caught in his throat as he was carried on turbulent currents, ripped under, and cast toward his ultimate destination.

...​

The low-humming florescent lighting cast a pale blue hue across his hands. He remembered the taste of crisp, fresh sea air tainted by the sweltering heat of industry far above, and when he cast a glance skyward, the drydocks blotted out the sun. Others around him never cast a glance his way. Children his age hurried back toward their homes, to the safety of their mother's side, hurrying to get away from the troubles that the street threatened their fragile peace with.

"Boy," the disjointed voice echoed in his thoughts, then resounded once more with clarity. "Oi! Boy! Are you deaf? It's curfew- time to get home, or we're taking you to the orphanage!" He shook his head, glanced toward the speaker without understanding, then glanced toward the glasteel window next to them. It hit him.

Coronet City.

He was five years old today.

Today was the day. Fortunes were going to change. Today was the day that would change Alkor Centaris forever.

 

[Asher Mossa]

WEARING: xxx​

WITH: N/A​

POST: 1​

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The planet was new, but the objective was not. Liberation. Asher had watched during his time among the Confederates as they systematically freed worlds from the troubles they had by taking under the protection of their banner. It was the one good in a galaxy full of evil. For so long Asher had feared that his presence would bring about the downfall of the thing he loved so much, but it had not. Every step forward only made the Confederacy stronger. Every new world taken was simply more evidence to Asher that his past was finally behind him.

But it wasn't.

Asher stood in the caverns and watched the truth sayers around the massive bonfire. There were others who would join them, even as some beckoned Asher to walk with them. It was not his future that he was concerned about, but it was his past. There was still peace to be made concerning the woman and child that were no longer living, and Asher still blamed himself for it. As the truth sayers bean their chants, Asher heard something else, deeper in the cavern.

His name.

The voice was one he recognized, a woman he had never thought he would hear again. Holding the rings which hung around his neck, Asher pushed the voice out of his mind. It was a trick, it had to be. His eyes searched the cavern and as they did, the voice only grew louder in his mind. She was calling, but Asher refused to move. He needed peace, but was he ready for what that would mean? Was Asher finally ready to move on?

 

[Pom Stych Tivé]

Objective: Negotiable
Location: Resort/Underwater Restaurant
Tags: [member="Voph"]​

Pom still could not believe the ideals by which this Confederacy claimed to stand. It seemed preposterous and she just had to see it in action. No way in hell did she believe it could ever actually work. Her way works; if people piss you off, smite their arse. But there is one thing she does have respect for in this System, it’s that it sure does home a lot of badasses. Only a fool would disrespect that, and Pom does not have a death wish so she successfully keeps her own opinions to herself thus far.

That established, there is no way in hell the Sorceress is going into any cavern region to have her future or reckoning bared before anyone. If they learned how she truly feels about this lifestyle of freedom to the downtrodden, chances are she would see her future and her reckoning play out in mere minutes!

She wasn’t one for skinny dipping, well not among strangers at least! The restaurant is more her thing for now. Anyways, her senses picked up on a potential new client. Pom approaches [member="Voph"] and twirled a small capped vial of pain relief potion atop the table. They had never met before, and she is quite curious if he will trust her gesture knowing full well it would be a death sentence to mislead one of such militant notoriety. Of course her gesture is sincere, it might seem out of character for one so different, but building her clientele is something she takes very seriously. A girl’s gotta eat afterall.

“No strings,” she offered a freebie for her first sample. “May I?” she asked gesturing to the vacant chair. He did happen to pick the most scenic window, and she could scout out the area for anything she can use for future potion ingredients.

 

[Veena Reshma]

Location: Z'mbali Lodge
Outfit: Red summer dress
Objective: Relax and keep an eye open.

Keeping in mind that Z'mbali Lodge was a little higher end, the spymaster had opted not to wear her gun holster. Most women in the lodge wore a dress of some kind, but she had never been partial to them. She owned several for when the occasion suited donning one, which in this case was here. Today might have been an excellent opportunity to make reports, but Veena was mindful of not encouraging any assassinations in a place as tranquil as M'haeli. Not until she could assess the situation prior before making outcalls to her little birds.

Troubling reports kept pouring in amidst a flurry of gang-related deaths and criminal activity that had sporadically broken out in the sprawl of Golbah city and beyond. If her whistleblower's drunken testimony could be taken as more than just a half-truth, then it seemed that the Umbaran gangs and the Hutts were making a move on the spice trade. The Sarlacc syndicates once firm grip was faltering as key outliers and affiliated personnel turned up dead or missing, with one case popping up on Falleen of a pair of Rodians turning up headless in an alleyway near the spaceport many scumbags called home.

But that could wait for now, for now, she could relax somewhat.

"Corellian brandy please," She fumbled in the breast pocket of her vibrant red coat for a cigarette case and pulled one out with long, slender fingers. Veena took a long drag off her cigarette and settled on looking adorable and lost hoping it'd mean she wouldn't have to pay for all her drinks.

 

[Kyyrk]

Objective: Get some much needed RnR
Location: Underwater Restaurant
Wearing: This with White undershirt, black pants, and black leather calf-length boots. His newly forged twin lightsabers are stashed in sleeves sown into the vest back, over the shoulder blades.
Tags: [member="Pom Stych Tivé"]

Voph did not stir for a moment, before his blind gaze turned to focus on Pom. "Is the suffering so obvious?" His tone suggested that he asked this question rhetorically. His right hand moved slightly, an open palm indicating the one of the chairs across from him. "Your offer is generous, but one I shall decline. Pain suppressors can only do so much." Voph's brow furrowed as he watched the girl sit down. "And maker knows I've existed on little else for the last few days."

The girl across from him reeked of the Dark. And given her garb Voph took her to be a Sorceress of some sort. A type of being that Voph had dealt with plenty in his days among the Sith. But he could not fault her, they were certainly a driven and powerful group of people. Even the head of his order, Darth Ilstra had been a sorceress. Not all of them were bad. Troublesome at times. But not bad.

"You are new to the Confederacy, are you not? You are unfamiliar to me."

 

[Darth Novus]

Walking.

Slowly at first, not trusting. Novus didn't know if he could trust the Truth Sayers, he wasn't sure if he wanted to hear what they had to say. He had always questioned about how he would die, but since dying he didn't know if he wanted to see how he was truly die. Essence Transfer wouldn't be a bad idea if he could master it, he just needed to master it first. Eventually he would get around to it, he just wasn't sure when he would.

Since the fight between the CIS and the ME, Novus had been lying low. The CIS had saved him to an extent and offered him a home. He had accepted the offer and had been building up. Now he had been invited to talk to the Truth Sayers and it was time to take them up on the offer. He would continue to help them and work with them while he tried to figure out exactly what he planned to do with his life, his new life.

He run his hands through his hair, felt his weapon at his side. He flicked his hood down, watching the flames lap from the fire, licking at the wood fueling it.

He sat at the fire side. It was time.

[member="Eternal Muse"]

 

[Alvida Osulf]

Location: The Caverns Behind the Waterfall | Wearing: xxx | Braids: xxx | Objective: Solidify the Future | Tags: n/a​

​

The forest called.​

​

Trees had always felt like a constant. Deep brown bark with ancient cracks decorating mighty trucks that towered up to the skies. Needles of dark hunter green hanging from whip-thin branches that never lost their colour, even when the snow fell and ice cracked the ground. It was different here, different beyond anything she had ever known or seen. The trees were thicker, the leaves were greener and the forest floor was scattered with peculiar life. Yet the unfamiliar forest still called. Alvida's nostrils twitched as she drew a dizzying breath of humid jungle air. A thousand unfamiliar scents filled her lungs to the brim and brought on a giddy sensation that set her heart ablaze. Everything was new, everything begged to be explored. The tips of her pale white fingers caught on the gaps in the bark as she trailed them along each tree trunk. With each step the flora underfoot crunched loudly. Alvida was not afraid to disturb the forest, paranoia was non-existent here. No matter what planet she found herself on, it was her home. It called to the wolf inside her.

A crackling in the distance caused her ears to perk. The familiar noise and smell of running water and a comforting fire overtook her senses. The tall one, the one who had met her off the ship, had said there would be fire and water. This was how she would recognise where to find the voice of the gods. What was it he had called them? Truth Sayers. Alvida turned sharply in the soft ground to face the scent of charred wood and smoke. Her gait changed, the leather wraps encasing her feet crept silently along the forest floor. She had no idea what she expected to find there but caution had always been advised when approaching those who could predict the future. When the trees finally broke the object of her attention came into view. A waterfall ten men tall cascaded down glittering stones and splashed noisily into the pool below. Perhaps later there would be time to explore its murky depths, but there was business to attend to first. For now the thing that drew her closer was the flickering yellow light just visible through the curtain of water. As she approached the fire bathed her in a soothing orange glow. Already the heat had begun to creep through the air warming it to an almost unbearable temperature.

With no hesitation in her step Alvida lowered herself into the dirt just on the edge of the fires heat. Ice blue eyes glanced through the flickering flames, landing on the face of the H'drachi that briefly appeared each time the fire danced. A confidence had been brewing inside her the moment she had heard about these speakers of truth. Her future had been read before, just like many others on her home world. She had even seen parts of it herself. Alvida was almost certain she knew what the Gods had in store for her. Even if these seers claimed their magic came from other sources, Alvida knew the truth of it. She was ready.

[member="Eternal Muse"]

 

[Gerwald Lechner]

​

WEARING: xxx | POST: 2​

w. N/A​

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---

​

The future was one thing always moving. Even Katrine had hoped it could be changed despite being from it. That had always puzzled Gerwald about their relationship. She had been to the future, and yet there had been nothing known about him, his siblings, the Lechners. Gerwald wanted to know why. It could have been as simple as meeting him had changed that. In the span of the time it had taken him to leave Stewjon until now, other Lupines had been discovered as well. Did any of this have any impact on the future. There was only one way to find out.

Gerwald had arrived on the planet alone. Breathing in the jungle air was a welcome fragrance compared to the rock and dust of Geonosis. Even the atmosphere on a ship was depressing sometimes, but this jungle, it smelled of life. The wind carried the fragrance of every tree, every creature, and the earthy fragrance of the soil his boots sank into. This placed called to the wolf inside the Lupine. It was begging Ger to let him out, to go for a run. How he wanted to give in to the call of the wild which raged inside him, but Gerwald needed answers. Still, what harm could come from indulging the senses.

That was when he smelled it.

Ger stopped in his tracks and inhaled deeply once more. Another Lupine ([member="Alvida Osulf"]), it was not Katrine, it was not her brother, the scent was not his sister's or brother's. This was not Redd or the other that he had heard of. The scent was new, unique, wild. A couple more breaths told him the scent was coming from the caverns where he was headed. The smoke wafted his way as well, though knowing there was another of his kind made the fire smell less intoxicating.

He was greeted by the crackling of the fire, and the truth sayers who beckoned him to find a seat. His eyes moved about the cavern, looking for the one who was giving off the distinct scent of wolf in their blood. The fire was too high to see, and perhaps he would have to wait, but Gerwald was going to find this new Lupine and learn what he could.

[member="Eternal Muse"]

 

[Ascendant Muse]

Wisdom riddled their faces.

Ravines of experience stretched forth from their eyes: a testament to the decades spent honing the art of fire. And, as the offworlders made their advance to the roaring flames, a low hum built within their chests. A rumbling of intent. The amassment of power. By the unspoken incantation which roiled in their cores, the Truth-Sayers bent the Force to their will. They infected the flurry of dancing embers with their desire and made the flow of time manifest. Now, before the very eyes of those who had seated, a glimpse into the future was made crystal clear. There would be no fog here. No room for doubt. That which they offered would indeed come to pass…

---

[member="Darth Novus"]​

Underneath a sky flecked with flames, the Sith surveyed his victory.

The battle he waged had been hard fought - but those above had placed their faith in him. And, like so many others, this battlefield had fallen victim to his supremacy. Before him, Alderaan had been brought to her knees. Before him, their gilded halls and pristine monuments were laid low. The transgressions which had brought about this damnation were trivial to the Sith; and all that mattered was the final result. Victory. Now, at the apex of his accomplishment, Darth Novus received a report from a subordinate. The BX Commando did well to kneel before its better, learning full well of the fate that awaited not giving the warrior his due. "Air superiority has been secured. Enemy resistance has been put down. The city is yours."

The clawed digits of the Sith drew into a fist, raised in response to his victory. Another battle won - onto the next fight.

---

[member="Alvida Osulf"]​

The sting of little fingers was an agony she adored.

Dusk had fallen across the plains, and Alvida sauntered towards her rest. This land - this sprawling sea of grasses and trees, filled the Lupine with a supreme understanding of the word peace. Here, she felt secure. Here, she felt joy. And the source for that elation rested upon her shoulders. To any who might have braved the Wilds, the sight might be truly bizarre. A full fledged she-wolf of midnight fur striding in the moonlight...with a youngling astride her spine. And yet, Alvida felt nothing but content as her cub rested. Fingers knotted in her fur. Luminous curls framing her face as dreams claimed her psyche. This day had been splendid, and there were many more to come.

---

[member="Gerwald Lechner"]​

The blood ran cold.

Gerwald had spent many years ignorant to the depths of His Hatred. Yet now, the truth had been laid painfully bare. Oh how he wished that he had seen...that he could have understood the depths of the Van-Derveld madness. His heart, his soul, his everything - Katrine...She had been...His eyes refused to accept that the mangled remains within his arms had once been his. His heart refused to believe that his smile had been ripped asunder. The roars which left him rattled the cavernous ruin about them. The tears fell like waterfalls. Yet nothing could piece back together what that damned Wolf had torn apart. But he was not alone. No, the monster responsible was within reach. With a crazed look within sulfuric eyes, Seren offered a bloody smile.

The Young Wolf's vengeance had been complete. Gerwald Lechner's had just begun.

 

[Alwine Daye]

Tags: [member="Gerwald Lechner"]​

​

Siblings before all. That was the mantra that controlled Alwine day and night. Her entire stay with the Confederacy after her disenchantment revolved around this. It was why she was still there, where [member="Gerwald Lechner"] was, where [member="Varick Lechner"] still would come back to once he was done parading around the galaxy. And for all of the things she disliked, being with the Confederady had some benefits; for the first time in her life, she was earning a salary that was hers and was not being transferred to her mother, and she had the relative freedom for various endeavors, so while she continued to heavily disagreed with much of the politics, she still had every intention of remaining for the time being.

It was why she had returned here. Gerwald was here as well and this was where the two had recently removed a local gang. If Gerwald was coming for the festivities, so would she.

But it was not Gerwald that caught her attention as she walked near the cave. It was the other Lupine – a third one. Alwine could not help but laugh. The woman who insisted on putting a Lupine crown over her head claimed there were no more and had not even looked. And yet more and more kept popping up; two were found by Madalena or Scherezade, and now, by the scent, she knew her brother had found another. How many more before the future Lupine Queen actually bothered to look for more? To see what happened to the species? Even Alwine, short Alwine who months ago could barely read, had been putting effort into locating more.

The fire within the cavern caused Alwine to arrow her eyes. Wolves, as a rule, did not particularly like fire. Even in her human shape, she preferred to stay away from it. And still, if her brother and another Lupine were there…

With a sigh, the petite entered the cavern. She was not interested in a glimpse of her future or of her past. Cularin had been enough for her on that front. But somewhere inside of her, she felt like her brother may need her, sooner than either of them would guess.

 

[Asher Mossa]

​

WEARING: xxx
WITH: N/A
POST: 3

---

Asher could only hear the voice getting louder, still he froze. Other passed him by a moped top young kid ([member="Darth Novus"]), a blonde woman that for some reason looked as though she should be familiar ([member="Alvida Osulf"]), and the infamous Gerwald Lechnar. Asher had made the mistake of once telling his sister something that had upset her very much. It seemed she was not supportive of his relationship with the Nightmother, though Asher did not understand the dynamics. Family, siblings specifically, was something Asher had a dismal track record with. All of them moved toward the fire, all of them wanted to see their future, but Asher's past was calling to him.

He moved finally, passing by Alvida once more. His eyes studied her wondering why she seemed familiar. The past called to him, a much stronger pull than anything he had felt in a long time. Even Lylek was quiet for once, which was a blessing in disguise perhaps. The shaman moved deeper into the cavers, getting lost in the darkness.

"Asher... come close... let me see you."

The voice was much louder, much closer now. He froze again.

"Gilda is that... are you here..."

Asher was quiet, his voice barely above a whisper. A small tear fell down his cheek. Suddenly a cold sensation brushed against it, wiping the tear away.

"No tears, strong warrior. Do not cry for me."

Yet Asher ignored the instruction. At her words and touch, Asher broke down into the sobs of a broken man.

 

[Seren]

Location: M'haeli, Falls​

Tag: [member="Jenmae Ophiro"]​

Time was precious to the Witch.

If ever there was one truth which had made itself apparent in the mind of the Wolf, it was that Jenmae valued every second of every hour. Though her midnight eyes often fell upon him, her true sight was always to the horizon. Always seeking after that which would fulfill her unspoken desires. Seren, in truth, had not an inkling what those desires might be. Nor did he put too much thought into sussing out the answer. Ever since his liberation from certain subjugation on Jamoura, gratitude had been the motivator of his actions. Thus far, their time had been spent nearly exclusively on Cularin - where the White Witch busied herself in exploring the depths of Seren's "usefulness." The Lupine was perfectly fine with putting his skills to good use, however, as every resource sniffed out was one step closer to repaying the woman for saving his hide.

If not for her, he had no inkling as to how bad off he would have been. At best, he might have survived whatever ritual Katrine's fanatics had planned for him. At worst? He would have been sleeping with his ancestors in the realm of the dead. The thought alone made his skin crawl. Nonetheless, the duo made a rare departure from the world warped by Time in order to venture to M'haeli. Now, this was not due to some sudden uptick in upholding the values of the Confederacy or anything of that sort. Rather, this expedition was an attempt by the Young Wolf to remove a solid portion of his debt in one fell swoop. For, whilst Jenmae rested or set her attention on other things, Seren would delve into the old legends. HoloNet searches, archive hunts, and everything in-between became that which burned many of his hours.

The fruits of this labor was something that they could, quite possibly, claim with relative ease. A legend from when the modern Galaxy was in a younger state: of the old Sith Empire collapsing and the flight of resources from beyond the burning worlds. It was here that, supposedly, a vessel bearing precious data from their archives had plummeted to ruin on M'haeli. Some of the human residents vaguely recalled that day - though on a relatively primitive world, who could truly identify a falling starship over a shooting star? Nonetheless, when presented to Jenmae, she approved...but Seren had an inkling that if the legend was a fool's errand her displeasure would be something he did not want to experience.

Thus, in the present hour, Seren's hunt took the pair to the water's edge. A system of underwater caverns were what stood between them and the supposed ruins of the downed vessel - and there was no easy way of getting there save "hoofing" it. Well. Jenmae, in her extraordinary might, may have had a trick...or seven...up her sleeve to save her the effort. But, Seren had no issue diving in. Garbed in simple swimmer's trucks, the Young Wolf snapped a light rod and shook it within his grasp - popping a rebreather into his mouth with his offhand. Ready? he came his telepathic inquiry - uttered just before leaping into the frigid depths.

 

[Malok]

Location: M'haeli, Caverns​

Tag: [member="Allya Vi'Dreya"], [member="Damsy Callat"], [member="Lace Vi'dreya"]​

The Vicelord cared not for the future.

It had been so long ago now...but the plethora of memories were still jarring when he thought on them. When the Confederacy descended upon Haseria, a wild [member="Scherezade deWinter"] had seen fit to drive her dagger into the base of the Sith's spine. A moment of distraction caused Darth Metus to lower his guard in the presence of supposed allies - and his life was almost forfeit as a result. But. In that moment, the crazed Mandalorian [member="Muad Dib"] stepped in to prevent death from claiming yet another victim. His rather unorthodox employment of Shatterpoint did more than stem the injury - but afforded the Vicelord a bird's eye view of the future. He was able to hover above the countless possibilities, witnessing the infinite twists and turns every decision could make. In that instant, he saw futures where [member="Srina Talon"] destroyed her Master and ruled the Confederacy with an iron fist. But also possibilities where he and his children would live out their days in peace.

The Sith cared not for narrowing down the possibilities to one solitary glimpse. For, after Haseria, he walked away from the experience with his own truth in mind. He determined his own fate.

Therefore, when the Tribelands were opened to the Confederacy, the Vicelord had no interest in kneeling before the flames. He had no doubt that the wisened elders of the H'drachi were more than capable of narrowing down the cacophony of possibilities - but that would only serve to be contrary to his own resolve. But. There was a second possibility. One that filled Darth Metus with morbid curiosity. Apparently, the cavern which the H'drachi kept watch over held a special relationship with those who were dearly departed. The spirits of the deceased had the capacity to rise and to commune with the living - in a way far different than the Dathomiri's communions with the ancestors. Just what madness from his past awaited him behind the walls of rock, he wondered. And, as he ascended the path towards where the Truth-Sayers resided, the mantra of his apprentice rang within his ears.

Let the past die, and if you cannot...kill it.

Perhaps, this day, he would managed to kill what was already dead.

 

[Scherezade deWinter]

Location: Somewhere between the jungle's edge and the pools​

Wearing: This​

Wielding: [SIZE=11pt]The Forgemaster's Ring[/SIZE][SIZE=11pt] | Ring of Stasis | Sofitor[/SIZE] | [SIZE=11pt]2 Nastirci Combat Knives[/SIZE]​

Tags: TBA​

​

It was almost time. M'haeli was the final stop, the last place for Scherezade to visit before Madalena's body would receive her soul into it and everything would change again. The last two months had been wild for her, experiencing things she had so yearned for but could never have. She had seen the love Cardinal had for Madalena. She had seen the respect and positive glances people cast her way. She had been treated with like and respect by the people of the Confederacy. And all because they thought she was Madalena Antares.

It would be heartbreaking to remove the mask, she knew. She could not keep it up. Sooner or later someone would discover the truth and then things would be so much worse than they had been. The only hope to keep even a potential shred of it was to come forward herself, but she needed to know Madalena was safe first. Cardinal had said that she would not be sentenced to more than a few months of imprisonment and that he would keep that from happening, but she was not as confident about that. For all she knew, the Vicelord and the Exarchs would want to throw her into the pit, and if she did not survive it, there would be no one to make sure Madalena could live.

So Madalena first. And once she was in her body and everything was great, she would go to the head honchos in charge and tell them what happened.

For now, she was simply walking somewhere between the jungles that the planet had to offer, and the pools that were on the other side. There were entrances, she'd been told, to underground caverns. The thought of that reminded her of home. But there would probably not be that home for her.

[SIZE=11pt]Sighing, Scherezade sat herself on one of the rocks, and leaned back, looking at others who were coming and going.[/SIZE]

 

[Alvida Osulf]

Location: The Caverns Behind the Waterfall | Wearing: xxx | Braids: xxx | Objective: Solidify the Future | Tags: [member="Gerwald Lechner"] | [member="Alwine Lechner"]​

The future beckons.​

The orange spirals of flame were mesmerising. Alvida's intense gaze remained on them for so long she was almost certain the patterns it left would be seared into them forever. A stillness filled the cavern, wrapping the small gathering in a blanket of silence. In the same way it did at home, magic worked its way through the cracks and crevices worn into the caverns through time. Alvida recognised the sensations as they took hold of her and commanded she pay attention. Even though she had experienced it many times before the hairs on the back of her arms still stood upright and a familiar icy chill ran the length of her spine. The seeing had begun.

Beautiful strokes of colour crept in tendrils through the great streams of smoke, disappearing into the depths of the fire itself. What they left behind was a tale that Alvida's mind had never thought to paint before. A wolf with eyes of azure fire and fur as black as night, a strong and wilful wolf brought to her knees in servitude to the youngling astride her. Questions ran through her mind, beating a rhythm in her brain that from this day forth would never be shifted. Was the young pup a male or female? Where was the other half of this thing she had created? The ice blue eyes beholding the vision would have been content to do so forever, if it weren't for the sudden instinct that aggressively grabbed hold and refused to let go. Try though she did, Alvida could not ignore it. Nobody could ignore the wolf once it spurred its head. With the vision broken, and the images slowly fading from Alvida's mind, her attention turned to the scent she had caught on the breeze.

The tip of her nose quivered as she took several deep breaths in quick succession. Soft creases formed between her brows. Her nose had never been wrong before, but what she was smelling could not be true. Swirls of dust encircled Alvida as she stood from the fireside and swept the wavy locks of golden hair from her shoulders. From her vantage point the sharp crystal orbs darted around the gathering, all the while her chest heaved up and down in search of the intriguing scent. As the flames died down Alvida could make out a pair of shadows standing just beyond the reach of the light. Her nose and her instinct told her to walk, so she did. Of course, her ancestors had known that other skin changers existed, but they had searched far and wide for them with no such luck. Seers back home had envisioned many reasons for Alvida to leave home and explore the extent of the Galaxy, but none had predicted this. No words were spoken as she reached the siblings. She simply stood, a few feet away from them, taking in their scent and their sight with wide, curious eyes.

 

[Taozi Fuyuan]

Location: Caverns​

Tag: [member="Darth Metus"]​

​

Time.

It was never something Lace concerned herself with, until now. It could not be reversed. The past could not be changed. Life would go on. It had to.

That didn't mean scars had to fade.

Lace walked through tribelands toward the caverns, lead by the promise of seeing into her future, or confronting her past. As she walked, she weighed her options. Isley had shielded her from the full wrath of their father in her youth, yes, but that did not mean she had no trauma. A younger, foolish, Lace had once wished for their family to live peacefully, without strife... It would not, and could not, come to be, however. Her family broken in more ways than one, Lace took a shaky breath as she entered the cavern.

Lace frowned as she approached the bonfire, but stopped just before getting close. Confront her past, or look towards the future? She stared into the fire, face barely lit with how far she was from it, before looking down at her hands. She had a choice to make...

But which?