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Faction Path of Most Resistance [TJO]



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2 WEEKS PRIOR . . .

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From: Grand Master Briana Sal-Soren
To: All selected participants of the Eadu Practicum Field Trial
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With a low chime, the holoprojector activates and a sapphire, flickering image of Briana Sal-Soren appears.

"If you're seeing this message, it means that you have been selected to participate in a field trial that will take place in two weeks time on the world of Eadu. This is not a simulated training scenario, but a live and immersive experience that is designed to challenge you in every way a Jedi can be challenged. The terrain is treacherous, the obstacles are real, and you will reach a level of exhaustion beyond anything you've previously experienced. That is the point."


From beneath her collar, she pulls a leather cord and lifts a small, smooth stone into view, its pale surface faintly glowing. "In your room, you'll find that you have been sent an Echo Stone, and for the next two weeks you will meditate with it every day and begin attuning to it. The stronger you build your connection to this stone, the more likely it is to aid you in the upcoming trial. I've also included more information on the stone and its capabilities, which has been sent directly to your designated-datapad."

She tucks the stone back into her tunic and adjusts her stance, folding her hands behind her back.

"In addition to the Echo Stone, various training materials — directly related to what you will face — have been sent to you and to your instructors. You're to study and practice the following abilities exclusively, Force Jump, Tapas, Controlled Descent, and Force Barrier. These will be paired alongside various methods and lessons from our core curriculum and the first chamber of the 25 chambers philosophy. I realize this is a lot, and that it would be impractical for me to expect you to come with any of these techniques fully mastered in the next couple weeks. However, I do expect you to come fully prepared with what you do learn, and ready to meet the challenge head on."

Her brows pull together, tone sharpening slightly. "When you arrive, you will be dropped at the southern edge of Eadu's cliffs where you will meet PADI, the droid who serves the Eadu Practicum and maintains its facilities. He'll provide you with the rest of the instructions you'll need to complete the course."

A deep breath is taken, inclining her chin. "Train hard, and I will see you in the storm. May the Force be with you."

The hologram flickers out.


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PRESENT

Eadu is a night world even during the day, shrouded in storm clouds so thick that any arriving ships are forced to rely on scanners to guide them as they descended down through the atmosphere. From above, there's nothing to see but layered thunderhead clouds and the electric strobe of lightning veins, but beneath the storm line, the wind howls and the water falls in relentless sheets, drumming against the barren surface with unmatched urgency and fury.

As each transport touches down along the fractured southern cliffs, the door hatches open and the participants are greeted by the cold bite of rain and wet stone beyond the warmth of the ships confines. Just ahead, the administrative droid known as PADI waits for them, its mechanical voice revving up as his processor picks up on the fresh-faced arrivals approaching.
"Greetings. I am PADI, the Practicum Administrative Droid Intelligence, previously the property of the late Master, Romi Jade. I will be assisting in the oversight and logistical support of this trial."
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He turns stiffly on his stabilizers, adjusting his optics as he catalogs each person from left to right. "Master Briana instructed that I extend you all a warm welcome, although local surface temperature indicates that it is currently six degrees Celsius." PADI raises one spindly arm, a holographic map blossoming to life, the projection flickering as raindrops pass through it.

"Each of you has been sent a copy of this navigational map to your datapads. It will guide you through each leg of this challenge, and to the cliffside sanctuary located at the highest elevation of this terrain profile. There, upon completion, you will receive dry garments, caloric sustenance, and temporary shelter until the arranged transport vessels have arrived to return you to Naboo." He pauses to let that sink in, "I was also instructed to motivate you by informing that those of you who complete today's trial first, will receive a Hurrikaine Crystal suitable for lightsaber construction. I am told this is 'cool' though I admit that I do not fully understand its relevance to ambient temperature, or the crystal's hue."

PADI clicks audibly. "Before you proceed, you will need to organize yourselves into teams of two to three. Keep in mind that team composition may affect your strategic viability. Larger teams offer increased support potential, but may suffer reduced mobility. Smaller teams may travel faster but are more vulnerable to environmental setbacks. While I would normally be very happy to share with you all the statistical success rate for each arrangement, which I indeed calculated, I was told I could not share that information, for the sake of morale. So please, do not ask."


"Finally, team members must remain together at all times. Should a participant be left behind without reasonable justification, the abandoning party will face not only delayed promotion, but will also be required to assist the teammate they abandoned for one standard week with any reasonable request they might have. This includes, but is not limited to, temple chores, sparring dummy maintenance, and mission preparation protocols." He pauses, optics blinking. "This penalty is non-optional."

There's an audible hum as his processors whirr.
"If, for whatever reason, you have been abandoned by your teammate, you are permitted to join another team to finish the course. If you cannot find a team willing to partner with you, return to this point and I will personally escort you to the Practicum." He lowers his arm; the holographic map flickers and vanishes. "Furthermore, Jedi Knights have been stationed at various intervals along the course, on standby to assist in the event of any medical mishap or poor judgments. Teams may begin assembling now. Once you are ready, you may begin."


LEG ONE: "Wind-Shear Crossing"
High cliffs and narrow ledges. The wind roars like a beast here. You must balance, navigate slippery ledges, and cross one or more suspension bridges that sway wildly over the abyss.

  • Relevant Abilities: Tapas, Force Barrier, Controlled Descent
LEG TWO: "Spire Run"
You descend and weave through a maze of stone spires and ridgelines, battered by wind and stinging rain. Rockslides, sinkholes, and unpredictable currents in streambeds make movement treacherous.

  • Relevant Abilities: Environmental Awareness, Force Jump, Telekinesis, Pathrunning
LEG THREE: "The Final Ascent"
A relentless mountain climb up black stone, with crumbling ledges, violent gusts, and no guardrails. Your muscles will burn. Mental fatigue meets physical exhaustion. When you reach the Cliffside Sanctuary, you'll be allowed warmth and rest.

  • Relevant Abilities: Force Jump, Breathing Techniques, Force Barrier
Completion
  • All team members must finish together.
  • Those who abandon teammates will face in-character consequences, including a delayed recommendation for promotion.
  • Those who support others, innovate, or show exceptional resilience, may get a mark from the council towards their eventual promotion.
  • Those who finish first will receive a Hurrikaine Crystal for lightsaber construction.

  • Every team member must roll 1d20 at the start of each leg in your first post for that leg, to determine how successful or unsuccessful you will be for the entirety of that leg.
    • High rolls (15–20): You navigate the leg effectively, and may assist a struggling team member. Describe how you compensate for the terrain, weather, or physical toll.
    • Mid rolls (8–14): You succeed, but with some setbacks or close calls that should be written into your post.
    • Low rolls (1–7): You face notable obstacles—slips, stumbles, poor Force focus, or mental/physical exhaustion. Let your post reflect these hardships.
Teamwork Matters:
If at least one teammate rolls high, they may actively assist a teammate who rolled low—whether through the Force, shared gear, or simply offering a steady hand.


ECHO STONE BOOST
  • After you have rolled your 1d20 at the start of each leg, you may then choose to roll a d6 for your Echo Stone attunement. (this will have to be done in Discord)
    • The result of the Echo Stone roll is added to your main roll for that leg, whether positive or negative. Each additional role after the first boost role, may carry increasing risk.
    • Starting on your second use, roll a d4 alongside your d6. If you roll a 1 on the d4, the Echo Stone backfires. 3-4, you may count whatever you roll you made with your d6. Rolling a 1 with the d4 could result in mental fatigue, disorientation, or the Force momentarily slipping from your grasp.
Use the Echostone strategically.
Special thanks and shout out to Romi Jade Romi Jade for the permission to use her subs here. <3
 
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Tags: Open
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Phillip had never been more grateful for his studies. As he listened to the Holo-Projector, he folded his arms along his front. The twenty five chambers had been something he had been trying to work on in his own free time. Practice made perfect and whilst he didn't have a Master yet, that didn't mean he couldn't work. To wait for a teacher was to waste time and there was only so much in the Galaxy. The Force techniques would be somewhat more difficult for him to practice however. That didn't mean Phillip would shy away from the challenge. He wasn't the same Padawan who stumbled his way through the obstacles in what felt like ages ago. He had potential. He would just need to believe in it. Either way, once the projection had ended, Phillip set straight out to start preparing on more training for himself. Echo Stone in hand, it was time for him to get to meditation once again.

--------

As he stood amongst the cold winds, Phillip kept his focus on PADI. Normally, he'd let his focus wander and take in the somewhat dangerous beauty of Eadu. The way the darkness mixed with the clouds and the lightning ahead. It would have made for a perfect landscape painting but that was going to be a distraction for today. The glow of PADI's map lit up Phillip's face as the young lad took a closer look at it. The mentioning of warm clothes at the end of the challenge was a welcome one...yet the attempt of motivation through the reward of the Hurrikane crystal...had the opposite effect for Phillip. Coming first wasn't a goal of his. It had been in the past. He had wanted to be the best in something. In painting, in his training, but he realised that it would just disappoint him. Every time he couldn't win, or just came up short would be a disappointment. Instead he was more focused on the concept of getting through the challenge, and helping others succeed. Glory was not his focus. Support was.

Either way, he moved off to the side to get a better look at the group. Phillip could look out for the usual people he'd want to join. Isla and Aiden were obviously the two he'd look out for first because they were familiar. Phillip trusted them. But that would only limit his growth. If he stuck to those he knew, those he trusted, he would stagnate. So instead he'd wait to see who else seemed like they needed someone. Those with confidence wouldn't be suited for Phillip. Whilst he wasn't lacking in much self confidence as he used to be, he still believed he'd hold back those who truly wanted to "win" the race. Instead he wanted to find those who were nervous about it. He'd support them through it. And so he stood and watched, his paint stained robes flapping away in the wind of the storm.

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THE PATH OF MOST RESISTANCE
INVENTORY: Jedi Robes, Lightsaber & Echo Stone.
TAGS: Briana Sal-Soren Briana Sal-Soren | Phillip Slate Phillip Slate

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Balun Dashiell stood aboard the Jedi Shuttle descending through Eadu's atmosphere, his right hand raised and gripping the upper railing to steady himself on his feet as the turbulence threatened to impose on the effort he placed into showing a confident external mask. Compared to the other Jedi Students, participating in group exercises such as this wasn't a common practice, as he had often had to contend with his learning and growth throughout his life, the hard way, on his own. It hadn't been all that long since he had first joined the Royal Naboo Republic, before it had transitioned into the High Republic and before he had first met his Master Ala Quin Ala Quin , but Balun was still growing accustomed to learning how to share this way of life with others, to open himself up with those around him and to work together as a member of a greater unit or a collective team.

Two weeks earlier, he had been invited to this upcoming exercise, something that Balun had figured that his Master had set him up for. It seemed to hold all the trademark callings for one of Ala's surprise announcements. An invitation that Balun could not decline, for she knew that his pride would not have him turn it down, fearing that if he did so it would make him look weak, and yet knowing that his attendance would likely help him to socialise and build better relationships with his fellow students in The Jedi Order. An Order that Balun still refused to call himself a member of. Clinging to the fact that he was a rogue, an independent lightsider rather than an actual Jedi, even though his motives and virtues aligned with the majority of the Order's teachings very closely. To say that Balun was complex, and perhaps a bit of a mess or at a loss within himself, was no small truth; Yet no matter how evident this might be to those closest to those around him, he refused to make it easy for others to see it where it could be avoided.

Hence, his constant external mask.

The Transport finally landed, the struts bulging against the guided impact of the planet's surface as the repulsorlift thrusters absorbed the ship's weight. The landing ramp opened, and the cold wind surged into the open bay, instantly causing Balun's robe to whip around his figure. His hands pulled it tightly around him to keep the warmth within. "Grist, a bit of warning might've been nice", Balun muttered under his breath as he turned to spare a glance over his shoulder towards the cockpit, soon stepping forward towards the boarding ramp, wasting little time to move, knowing that keeping still would only serve to hasten the cold.

Making his way out towards the Droid PADI, Balun found one of the other Students ( Phillip Slate Phillip Slate ) having already arrived. He wasn't aware of the other guy's name, and he couldn't be sure if they'd seen each other around the Shiraya Sanctuary or not. Lifting his head in a casual yet friendly nod of acknowledgement, Balun didn't want to discourage the other Apprentice from thinking he was being rude; "Hey man", he greeted him first before turning to listen to the droid as PADI finished speaking.



"Speech"
'Thought'
 
Current Outfit
Pre Built Lightsaber
Echo Stone

Voli always thought of herself as a good student in school, but learning about the ways of the Jedi and Force was equivalent to going from High School level to a Theoretical Astrophysics PHD level. The material was dense and difficult to keep up, Voli had to learn everything that Grandmaster Briana Sal-Soren Briana Sal-Soren had instructed in a small amount of time. It didn't help that Voli was very behind in terms of Force prowess compared to her peers. She felt inadequate, she was going to fail hard on this task. Which begs the question: Why in the hell would Voli join this?

"To build character," Voli thought. "Or maybe I just hate myself."

Voli did tell herself to be less reclusive and more sociable but was going on a glorified scouting hunt a good bonding experience? Voli doesn't have a partners for this trek. "At least I can get a crystal If I beg people to join their group." Voli thought. "Potentially at least."

@OPEN
 

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Journal Entry:
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Michael’s Journal — Entry One
[Two weeks before departure]
Location: Naboo, Hangar Dorm 3-B
Time: 2217 Standard

"If you're seeing this message..."

Yeah. I saw it. And now I can’t unsee it. I was mid bite of a heating-pack panini when Grand Master Sal-Soren’s face flickered into the middle of the dorm like some kind of sapphire ghost and decided to hit me with a threat disguised as an honor.

A live field trial. On Eadu.

Not a simulation. Not a sparring arena. No classroom modules. Real terrain. Real danger. Real exhaustion.

…I actually kind of love that.

Then she pulled out that Echo Stone. I felt it before I saw it—like the Force just… tugged at me a little, right behind the heart. Weird. Mine was already on the desk. They must've delivered it earlier and I didn’t even notice. I’ve been holding it every night since, even when I pretend I’m not meditating.

And I don’t know, maybe it’s in my head, but the thing feels warmer now. Not like warm-warm. Like, known. Like it knows me. Or maybe it just recognizes a kid who's barely keeping it together under pressure.

I heard Master Quin say to her students “attunement starts in the stillness,” which is hilarious, because if I stay still for too long, I fall asleep. BRED offered to shock me gently awake next time. He’s joking. I think.

The list of what we’re supposed to practice is no joke though:
  • Force Jump? Barely passable.

  • Tapas? I almost stopped shivering in the freezer chamber yesterday. I have cold weather training, I’ll survive.

  • Controlled Descent? Not unless we count “screaming strategically.” Naw, Connel taught me a work-around.

  • Force Barrier? Better. Especially when I imagine someone I care about behind me. I just hope they are wooden knives in front of me.
Connel gave me some old notes from the 25 Chambers. The first one? "Still water reflects true form." Yeah. I know it’s about conditioning and strength training, but I don’t want to focus on that and miss something. Real easy to reflect when you're up to your nose in assignments and bruise cream.

Still. I want to go. I need to go.

Because I’m not just doing this for me. I’m doing it for Dad. For Connel. For everyone who ever said, “You can’t balance being a pilot and a Jedi.”

Watch me.


Journal — Entry Two
[Arrival on Eadu]
Location: Southern Cliffs, Surface
Time: 0540 Local / Night-Day Cycle

I landed in hell wearing flight boots.

I couldn’t see anything on approach. Just clouds. No light from a sun, no terrain visuals, no starlight. Just lightning. Layers of it. Like the sky was coming apart seam by seam. The ship groaned during descent, scanners buzzing, pilot swearing under his breath. I pretended not to notice how white-knuckled he was.

The canopy opened and the first thing to hit me was the sound. The noise of Eadu. Wind like a blade. Rain like fists. The stone outside looked like it hadn’t been warm since the dawn of the galaxy.

I stepped off. My boots sank into wet gravel. Every breath felt like swallowing ice chips. I blinked up into the sky and got slapped with rain for my trouble. BRED made a sad little bwoooop and tucked closer under my cloak.

That’s when I saw him.

PADI. Practicum Administrative Droid Intelligence.
Also known as: The Most Unintentionally Terrifying Tour Guide I’ve Ever Met.

“Greetings. I am PADI... I will be assisting in the oversight and logistical support of this trial.”

Great. Bureaucracy in a bowtie.

He looked like he hadn’t updated his software in a decade, but he moved like he’d already predicted every mistake we’d make. Scanned us one by one. I felt seen. In the worst way.
Then he pulled up the map and told us exactly how many ways we could suffer.

Six degrees Celsius. No visibility. Lightning everywhere.

Our goal? The sanctuary. At the top of the cliffs. Through the storm. Through the obstacles. Through ourselves.

Also—bonus prize for whoever finishes first? A Hurrikaine Crystal.
…Okay. That is kinda cool.

Then came the kicker—teams of two or three. Stick together or suffer. Leave someone behind and you’re scrubbing meditation chambers for a week.

Honestly? I don’t mind that part. It’s not about finishing first for me. It's about finishing right.
I’m already eyeing who I’ll team with. Someone fast. Someone level-headed. Preferably someone who doesn’t mind if I talk through the entire climb to keep from freaking out, not that I will, I don’t do that anymore… or probably any less.

I’ve already started recording mental checklists:
  • Don’t panic.
  • Keep your Echo Stone close.
  • Trust the training.
  • Trust the Force.
  • And most importantly... trust yourself.
It’s cold. It’s loud. It’s real…

… And we haven’t even started moving yet.

This is it. The Trial begins.
Let’s see what I’m made of.

– Michael “Turtle” Angellus


 

While I would normally be very happy to share with you all the statistical success rate for each arrangement, which I indeed calculated, I was told I could not share that information, for the sake of morale. So please, do not ask.

That was a lovely notion.

Saphira stood there, her hands cupping the Echo stone that she had received. What a curious thing. It seemed to heighten her focus and improve her Magik, or Force abilities as they were. It was almost a reflection of the self, or a conduit for which the self could be amplified. Handy as it was, Saphira also recognized it as a crutch. Over reliance was sure to make the good it provided meaningless. It was no wonder it was being applied for the purposes of training.

So they faced lightning, extreme cold, rain, so on and so forth. Thankfully the extremes of Dathomir had prepared her for such conditions. Tapas was something she had learned growing up, and thusly was insulated from the threats of the cold at least. The rest she could figure out along the way. Barriers, jumps, slow falling... They were things she had done before, just a bit clumsily.

It was the Hurrikaine crystal that she peaked her interest the most. She didn't have a lightsaber yet. This could be her chance. So many of her peers seemed to already have their blades constructed. Sure, the young witch hadn't been there for long, but she didn't want to be left behind.

Teams... she just needed to find herself a team.


 



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Equipment: Kas' Gear | Echo Stone
Tags: Briana Sal-Soren Briana Sal-Soren |
OPEN

Mentions: Brandyn Sal-Soren Brandyn Sal-Soren | Vizion Trozky Vizion Trozky | Jairdain Ismet-Thio Jairdain Ismet-Thio | Katarine Ryiah | Aiden Porte Aiden Porte
Location: Naboo - Training Course & Gallo Mountains | Eadu - Southern Edge
Objective: Practice & Train (Naboo) | Find & Form a Team (Eadu)


Two Weeks Before...

Three teenagers were together on Naboo - undergoing the Training Course within the Shiraya Sanctuary. The grounds are where the trio were practicing certain Force abilities. Kas was one of the three, the other two, Caden and Seri being his siblings. Kas had received a transmission recording from Grandmaster Briana Sal-Soren Briana Sal-Soren about an off-world field trial on the planet Eadu. This was his reasoning for going harder in the Naboo Jedi Enclave's training course. Putting in the preparation and practice for the Force abilities mentioned in the message by the Grandmaster. Determined and motivated Kas was on the move.

The young Jedi was practicing with his twin sister, Seri, in applications of the abilities known as Controlled Descent and Force Jump. The twins were practicing and becoming more familiar in channelling the Force energy to leap higher than normal and return to lower ground using the Force to guide their decline back down. Kas and Seri were drilling their understanding to let the abilities be second nature. They both have the natural talent in using the Force thanks to their parents both being Jedi Masters and strong in the Force.

Back and forth, up and down, Kas and Seri were definitely getting their workout in. Moreso Kas was really gunning for various ledges and pillars to bound and bounce off of. Seri had to remind him not to exhaust himself in the first few days. Panting and sweating he ended up sitting atop of a ledge waited for Caden and Seri to catch up. At least he was getting a rest which allowed his body to recover.


"C'mon you two. Can't be slackin' in our Jedi training." Kas grinned over to Caden and Seri.


"Stop showin' off Kas! Wait until we test our Force Barriers next!" Seri called back out to Kas, they weren't too far apart. She knew Kas meant well and always encouraged Seri and Caden to push themselves.

Caden coming up behind his sister and chuckled in hearing Kas. "Always the one pushin' ahead and us huh." The younger teen gently punched his older brother's upper arm and smiled.

After regrouping they went to a clearing to then practice another ability called Force Barrier. Caden being more advanced in some Force-combat abilities had then used Ballistakinesis - gathering small of rocks, other objects. Using them as projectiles against Kas and Seri who were taking turns to apply the Force Barrier ability to defend themselves. Even mixed it up where they protected one another displaying team work.

The Larsens took turns to test one another in learning, practicing and training their abilities in the Force. Ensuring they don't over do it either. Reigned each other in - their sibling bond was very strong. They were getting better, confident and stronger as Jedi. They won't stop - Caden, Kas and Seri were well on their way.



Gallo Mountains - Night time

It was dark and late, wearing only his green jumpsuit Kas had been climbing up the mountains. The reason was to go find a cold environment and practice the Force ability known as Tapas. He was on his own this time no support from Caden or Seri. After climbing to a good spot where the temperature did drop and felt shivers run riot around his body it was time. Now the hard part had to be confronted and accomplished.

Stood upright and let the cool wind howl against and around his body. The air was cutting through Kas and he gritted his together while gathering his focus. Cleared his mind and relaxing as best as he could. Reaching out to the Light side of the Force and the energy flowing around his person. Next it was building up inside of him - imagining his body starting to warm-up and before he knew it. Kas' muscles and joints weren't tense.

The warmth granted to his body by focusing in on using Tapas to endure the harsh, cold winds and the environment atop the mountain - not the highest but it was a suitable place to practice in. He spent long hours in this area each night that he was able to spare after doing his other studies and Jedi training.


Eadu - Southern Edge

Inside of the shuttle used for transporting him and a few other fellow Jedi Padawan Learners. Kas was clearing his mind and doing what he could to be best prepared. Kept his focus and not after glory for this Field Trial this was another world he had never been to. However, did some research and prepared himself.

The Echo Stone was around his neck managed to find strong rope or string to have it close by him. Connecting with the item on his way to Eadu. In hearing Briana Sal-Soren Briana Sal-Soren mention this was required he wouldn't cast it aside and kept it safe on his person. He felt the shuttle slow down and touch the surface. It's time. Kas got to his feet to find the protocol droid called PADI.

Emerged from the ship as its doors opened and the ramp unfolded for him to walk down on. Already taking in the atmosphere and environment. Kas wasn't going to undermine anyone or anything while here.

Time to meet everyone, form a team and focus. Kas walked over to the gathered group who made it.


"Kas Larsen here. Have we formed teams yet?" Kas raised probably a question that was on everyone's minds.



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The moment the transport ramp hissed open, the storm reached in and slapped her across the face with rain that was as sharp as glass. Then there was the wind that shoved at her chest like a living thing, horrible and bitter. The heat of the ship vanished behind her, Bastila didn’t flinch, at least not visibly but she did take a grounding step forward, planting her boots against the wet stone with more force than necessary. Her hair was already whipping loose from the knot she’d tied it into before descent. Useless.

Pulling her hood up, she tried to block the rain at least, not for warmth, but for the focus.

The world outside was chaos, like Eadu wasn’t trying to kill them; not exactly. It was testing them, seeing if it could hurt them. That was the Jedi way, wasn’t it? Frame suffering as something noble. Challenge as a gift. Bastila had learned to choke down worse.

The droid was already waiting, stiff-backed and flickering in the half-light. She narrowed her eyes at the name: PADI.

Briana’s message had made the situation clear, listen to PADI. Bastila was still annoyed about it, months she had been back on Naboo and still her sister had ignored her, missed her calls, been busy when she looked for her. Yet the first interaction they’d had in years was a damn pre-recorded message.

Bastila stood near the front of the line, arms crossed tight beneath her cloak, letting the words wash over her. Trial. Cliffs. Echo Stone. Teamwork. Penalties. Crystal.

She didn’t move when the holographic map appeared. She’d already committed it to memory last night, studying it under the light of her datapad, when she should’ve been sleeping. The fact Briana still used the same passwords that she had when she used to write those stupid diary entries in the family vault droid was laughable. The fact that Bastila remembered them, even more so. She had made note of the sanctuary at the summit; that was the goal. Everything between here and there was noise.

Still, she felt the quiet buzz of nerves ripple through the group. Some of the other participants had trained together for years. Yet none of the familiar duos gravitated to each other with quick nods and murmured strategy. It was silent, cautious. Bastila didn’t move. She didn’t want to seem like she was waiting for someone, but in truth… she was.

She thought of Brandyn, briefly. Of what he’d say, had he been here. Of the smirk he’d wear, hands in his sleeves, and how easily people seemed to gather around him.

Bastila had never had that gift. She was sharp-edged, and the Echo Stone around her neck pulsed like it knew it. She curled a hand over it beneath her tunic, steadying its rhythm with her breath. She didn’t need to charm anyone. She just needed someone competent.

Someone she could trust to stay.

Her gaze swept the clearing. A few still stood alone. She caught one of them glancing her way. Another was adjusting gear, muttering to themself. It was like watching animals standing around waiting for the slaughter.

“Fine then.” She stepped towards the edge of the group and turned back to them “You.” She pointed at the closest. “You have a partner yet?”

Didn’t think so.

“You two, stand together.” She pointed at Saphira Ohm Saphira Ohm and Michael Angellus Michael Angellus moving them together with her words alone. “You and you and you. You’ll be alright.” Aimed at Kas Larsen Kas Larsen Voli Cholrass Voli Cholrass and Phillip Slate Phillip Slate before she turned her head to look at Balun Dashiell Balun Dashiell . A strange smirk crossed her face.

“You. With me.” The area stayed silent. That was fine. She didn’t want easy company.

“You good with that?” She extended a hand, rain sliding off her glove. “Then let’s move before the others chew up the terrain and make it worse.”

Thunder cracked overhead like a warning shot


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He had watched the slowly forming group of Padawans for a moment. Trying to gauge who he thought would be too ambitious for him and who would have been the best choice for him to go along with. If anything, he wanted to try and support people but there wasn't entirely anyone he could see that would be a struggle. He had planned to wait for the last few Padawans to be left behind before he stepped into helping anyone out. And that's when the new arrival appeared, speaking up for the group and starting to form the pairs already. It had came to a surprise to him as he looked at the groups slowly being formed together.

Saphira had a good head on her shoulders. She'd make for a good partner with Michael in Phillip's eyes. A small frown came to his face at the group he was grouped up with however. It wasn't that he had anything against the other two. It was more...he felt like he'd hold them back in some way. Kas had height to his advantage and Voli very much seemed like she wouldn't accept help from Phillip. In fact...it seemed like none of the people taking part in the course would really require any help except for Phillip himself...So maybe it would be best for him to work with what he'd view as the strongest pairing, and so he stepped forward, waving his index finger between Balun and Bastilla.

"Hey. Sorry to make...the groupings a bit awkward, but is it alright if I go with you? I feel like I can learn a lot teaming up with you."

Phillip didn't want to directly say that he felt like he'd hold Kas and Voli up. That would make it less likely that anyone would want to team with him. But he also did mean what said. Balun and Bastila seemed like valuable sources for him to learn from. Balun seemed well experienced, and Bastilla clearly wasn't lacking in confidence to him! So if he worked with them, he hoped that maybe some of that experience and confidence could rub off on him.

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“You two, stand together.” She pointed at Saphira Ohm Saphira Ohm Saphira Ohm Saphira Ohm and Michael Angellus Michael Angellus Michael Angellus Michael Angellus moving them together with her words alone. “You and you and you. You’ll be alright.” Aimed at Kas Larsen Kas Larsen Kas Larsen Kas Larsen Voli Cholrass Voli Cholrass Voli Cholrass Voli Cholrass and Phillip Slate Phillip Slate Phillip Slate Phillip Slate before she turned her head to look at Balun Dashiell Balun Dashiell Balun Dashiell Balun Dashiell . A strange smirk crossed her face.

“You. With me.” The area stayed silent. That was fine. She didn’t want easy company.

“You good with that?” She extended a hand, rain sliding off her glove. “Then let’s move before the others chew up the terrain and make it worse.”

Thunder cracked overhead like a warning shot

"Wait-What?...." Balun managed to stammer out the words, shocked as this Woman, whom Balun had never met, had seemed to single him out as her teammate. Bastila Sal-Soren Bastila Sal-Soren spoke with the air of authority that so many Jedi Knights and Jedi Masters had in Balun's past life on Coruscant, yet he didn't know her name nor he rank so he couldn't be sure of much; All he did know was that she was confident and that for some reason she had seemed to choose him of all people.

Did Ala Quin Ala Quin know this woman? Had his Master put her up to this? Was this an orchestrated test hidden in the background of a larger test of the students' capabilities? He couldn't be certain, and to be quite honest with himself, nothing would truly surprise him. Balun's Master could read him like a book; she had proven this much the first day they had met, despite his outer facade being at his A-game. If this latest arrival was a Jedi Knight, or at the very least a senior student with some sway among the higher ranking body of the Jedi Order, trusted in her assessment of the students performances, Balun wouldn't put it passed Ala to try to put someone else to work to get a gauge of his ability while he had his guard down.

...Only, he never let his guard down. And she probably knew this about him, too. It was also very likely that he was overthinking it.

"Well. Fair enough..." Balun shrugged his shoulders loosely and moved over to stand nearer to Bastila Sal-Soren, "I was about to ask the others if they wanted to partner up anyway, so this works. That leaves one team of three, though," he surmised as he gestured towards the larger group of Kas Larsen Kas Larsen , Voli Cholrass Voli Cholrass and Phillip Slate Phillip Slate . It didn't bother Balun personally, but he pointed it out out of consideration for the trio in case they had their preferences.

"Otherwise, I'm good to go", he confirmed. Although he wasn't a strong, academically minded person, Balun had grown through challenging solo fieldwork much of his independent life since leaving the New Jedi Order at the young age of fifteen. He was twenty-three now and still finding his fit within the Jedi Order of the High Republic. Yet, he had cut his teeth in service under the Tingle Arm Coalition, fighting on the battlefield against Imperials and acting as an Aquilian Ranger piloting across the distant stars, oftentimes just him and his droid. He didn't know much about the other students here, but like most things in life, he felt ready to tackle this course through trial and error.



"Speech"
'Thought'
 

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Journal Entry:
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Michael’s Journal — Entry Three
[Standing around like a log on Eadu]
Location: Southern Cliffs, Surface
Time: 0552 Local / Night-Day Cycle
LEG ONE: “Wind-Shear Crossing”
Location:
Cliffside Assembly Point, Eadu
Time: 0602 Local

The wind was bad from the landing pad.
Here, it’s personal.

It screams like it’s angry we showed up, biting at every loose thread and trying to rip sound out of your mouth before it leaves your lips. I swear, it grabs you. Pulls at your balance. Like it’s trying to take your footing—and your fear—just to see what’s left underneath.

We’re supposed to cross that?

Thin ledges. Loose gravel. Jagged drops. Suspension bridges that shouldn’t be allowed to move that much. The abyss is waiting under all of it, just humming below like it’s hungry.

I was scanning it all—doing the math without thinking:

  • Watch the ledge angles.
  • Use Tapas early to preserve body temp.
  • Barrier only in bursts, keep energy reserve.
  • Descent options in case of fall… minimal. Not zero.
Then she said it.

“You two, stand together.”

No hesitation. No invitation. Just directive.

I turned at the voice—
It was her. The other Sal-Soren.

Little sister to the Grand Master. Probably born issuing commands.

She pointed at me and at Saphira Ohm like we were two datapads she was syncing together.

So… apparently anyone with the name “Sal-Soren” can boss others around? What in the Blue Frell is this? Excuse me, GrandMaster... I didn’t recognize you…

Don’t get it twisted, I don’t have an issue with this… wait is she Echani? Heh, I almost said ‘White Chick” but … okay I just did… but… I don’t have an issue with her, I’m sure she’s awesome. That’s not the point. I know Balun. I know what he can do. Whatever. I don’t do this enough to really have any bass to my voice, and they probably wouldn’t listen to me anyway.

I didn’t stand next to her, simply because that little “boss babe” isn’t the boss of me (why do I feel like some big dork is sitting in front of a laptop laughing as he is making me say that?) I did look her way though. We don’t have to team up if you don’t want, but we’ll kick butt…

… And sure, I’ve had worse orders… but something in the tone made my jaw tighten. Not because I wouldn’t pair with Saphira—she seemed to have a level-headed intensity, and I’ll take that over bravado any cycle of the week—but because I don’t like being assigned like luggage.

Especially not by someone who could move bodies with her voice alone.

So I looked at Saphira. Really looked at her.
Didn’t say anything. Just held the space open for her to speak first.

If she says no, I’ll find another way. Simple.
But if she says yes...

Then I already know the plan.

I’ll take point on the narrow ledges, mapping with HUD and eyes. She can watch our six, stabilize if the bridge snaps or swings. We’ll go two lines tethered—not actual rope, just coordinated spacing. If one of us slips, the other has to be able to redirect the fall.

And if we fall?

Then we fall smart. I don’t know this “controlled descent” but I know how to “push” and doing so at the ground is basically the same thing…

But I won’t be the first to speak. This part’s hers.

I wait.



Saphira Ohm Saphira Ohm | Balun Dashiell Balun Dashiell | Phillip Slate Phillip Slate | Voli Cholrass Voli Cholrass | Kas Larsen Kas Larsen | Bastila Sal-Soren Bastila Sal-Soren | Briana Sal-Soren Briana Sal-Soren
 

“You two, stand together.”

Oh. It seemed like she was already being paired up with someone. Saphira blinked a few times, processing the information, but very quickly composed herself again.

That was fine. As long as she actually had a partner it didn't much matter.


We don’t have to team up if you don’t want, but we’ll kick butt…

"I have no strong aversion to the matter," Saphira shrugged. "If such is required of me, I will offer my assistance in any way I can."

The first hurdle was the ledges. Jagged, slick, and only traversable by climbing. Saphira had her own ideas for how they might be able to ascend, but she didn't exactly want others to catch onto what it was they were doing. So, the young witch drew a series of dathomiri runes in the air, leaving behind streaks of green Magik, before she dispersed the flaming energy.

I think I have a strategy for success, a soft voice would say in Michael's mind. It was Telepathy, though fairly weak. Not yet practiced. It helped that they were rather close to each other. Tapas regulates internal temperature to a significant degree. It draws in natural energy to create heat. If we draw as much heat as we can out of the environment, say out of the stones, for example, the expected reaction would be external cooling. Should it be sufficient, perhaps that slick water may even freeze. In that case we may be able to create an effect similar to the sticky toe-pads of some lizards. It would not be incredibly strong, but it may give us an edge when attempting to anchor ourselves into place. It would at least be better than slipping about...

Regulating temperature was a good way to begin learning how to use the cold to some capacity anyways. Heat and cold were opposite sides of the same coin. To draw in heat somewhere, something else must lose that energy, at least when you didn't have a chemical reaction to create it for you.

Saphira shook her head, fuzzy for a moment after the strain of using telepathy. She wasn't very practiced with it, so it made her light headed for a moment. The young witch bounced back fairly quickly though.

"Right, you seemed to be deep in thought," she observed, recalling his momentary silence, "What do you suggest is a wise way to tackle this?"


 

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Journal Entry:
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LEG ONE: “Wind-Shear Crossing” (Continued)
Location:
First Ledge
Time: 0606 Local

She said yes.

Not with a big speech. Not with theatrics. Just a sharp nod—like she’d already calculated the odds and decided I wasn’t going to get her killed.
I can work with that.

We stepped to the ledge together, the wind clawing at our cloaks, the rain hammering sideways into our faces like the planet itself was warning us to turn back.

"Right, you seemed to be deep in thought," she observed, recalling his momentary silence, "What do you suggest is a wise way to tackle this?"

I remember hesitating, lips twitching.

Wish I could say yes when it comes to Tapas, I’ve read the theory. It's a great plan, but I don't know if I'll be any good, but I'll try. Tried the freezer chamber. Nearly froze off a toe. It’s okay though, I’ve had cold weather training, your plan sounds amazing and I would be willing to try, but…

She didn’t laugh. Didn’t seem to judge. Just seemed to have accepted it.
So I returned the favor.

But I’ve worked narrow paths before. Obstacle sim at the Academy—three levels of unstable platforms, partial gravity field, and live fire drones. I didn’t break a record… but I finished it.

She looked at me again—really looked this time—and something shifted in her posture.
Mutual utility. That’s what this is. I kept going, quieter now so only she could hear through the shrieking air.

I’m no good at regulating internal body heat through the Force, but I know how to read gust patterns. I can spot which stones will hold and which are false. You keep us stable, I’ll get us through.

A beat.

We compliment each other.

I let her think about it as I motioned to the first stretch.

… and we would move.






Tactic One: Silent Sync
I let her choose her spacing behind me. Enough to react. Close enough to stabilize. We didn’t need to talk—just gestures and glances. That’s all we need. I counted five ledges before the first suspension bridge. Every time the wind screams louder, I focus on three things:

  • Foot pressure.
  • Gravity center.
  • Her.

If she slipped, I’d grab her. If I fell, I’d trust her to catch me. It was that simple. It had to be.

Then there was this Echo stone. I could use it… but I don’t know… it seems like it is cheating if I do so. I mean, “win” fair… “fail” honest… right? Then again that’s just me. She can do what she needs to… but what if I use it to help her?

Ugh… ethics…

Saphira Ohm Saphira Ohm | Briana Sal-Soren Briana Sal-Soren
 



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Equipment: Kas' Gear
Tags: Phillip Slate Phillip Slate | Voli Cholrass Voli Cholrass | Bastila Sal-Soren Bastila Sal-Soren | Balun Dashiell Balun Dashiell
Mentions: Briana Sal-Soren Briana Sal-Soren
Location: Eadu | Southern Edge
Objective: Rally with the Team | Begin the Course


Kas stopped in his tracks the teams were being formed and gathering round as Padawan Learner Bastila Sal-Soren Bastila Sal-Soren took charge and ended up allocating everyone to their teams. Never having met Bastila a slight frown briefly appeared on Kas' face but he got with it. For the sake of the others. He has built his Lightsaber hilts prior to arriving on Naboo and joining their Jedi Order back on Tython. He's not after prizes or glory.

Approached his team mate Padawan Learners Voli Cholrass Voli Cholrass they met before back on Katabasis and wandered through the fortress oof the Black Spiral. He watched Phillip Slate Phillip Slate head off to Bastila Sal-Soren Bastila Sal-Soren and Balun Dashiell Balun Dashiell taken back by this. Surprised slightly. Still he went over to Voli ready begin with her.


"Fancy bumping into you again Voli. Doing alright?"
Kas asked Voli and waited to see what would be her reactions. It'd be time to begin the first leg of the Field Trial soon. Kas was mentally preparing himself for it.

Made sure his Echo Stone was secured around his neck with the rope he had used to tie it up and around his neck to let it dangle close by his person. Ready to make his approach with Voli and he was open to let another Padawan Learner join them if they were without a team.


"Ol'val, min dul'skal, ahn guld domina (Translation: Clear skies and good luck, my friend OR may fate be with you)."


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Current Outfit
Pre Built Lightsaber
Echo Stone

Voli remained silent fiddling with the Echo Stone in her hands silently listening to Bastila Sal-Soren Bastila Sal-Soren instructions. A deep breath escaped Voli's mouth while Briana paired the Padawan with Kas Larsen Kas Larsen and Phillip Slate Phillip Slate . A small smile slowly formed across her lips. She recognized Kas from the expedition, though Phillip escapes her. "Good to see you again Kas," Voli whispered. "We're off on another wild Bantha chase. Hopefully this is filled with less ancient Dark Side magic."

She was a little nostalgic of the expedition all things considered. To witness the raw power of the Dark Side trying to kill them was...... actually fun. "All I need to do is find a way to harness that power." Voli thought. "The temptations I felt in the Black Spire....... It felt wrong to refuse."

"Never better Kas," Voli said walking alongside him. "Just trying to apply to what I've learned. Though I think I have more of a taste for live missions than scripted excercises."

She kept the Echo Stone close to her as they approached the first leg. "Feeling nervous?" Voli asked.
 

I’m no good at regulating internal body heat through the Force, but I know how to read gust patterns. I can spot which stones will hold and which are false. You keep us stable, I’ll get us through.

"Understood. I will follow up behind you."

That put pressure on her to make sure she was ready to react if he fell. That was okay. She felt that she could bare that responsibility and let him navigate them up via the best route. She let her mind connect to the Echo Stone fully for the first time, feeling it's properties in full. Not a crutch, but it could help her focus.

So Saphira prepared herself and began to climb, keeping everything Michael had said in her mind.


 

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Journal Entry:
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Alright, we’re on our way.

Stang! It’s windy! It shouldn’t be legal to be this cold!
Tactic Two: Force Barrier
Halfway across the third ledge, a crosswind slammed into us so hard I thought my ribs cracked. My instincts fired. I shoved both hands down, felt the Force, and pushed a low Barrier across the ledge like a shield against a crashing wave.

Saphira didn’t seem to flinch, but I had her anyway.

She saw it—matched the shape with a stability anchor of her own, just behind my left heel. Her Tapas was keeping her steady, I could tell. Her breathing was too controlled for this kind of cold.

Mine… not so much. My teeth were rattling. But I held.





Tactic Three: Bridge Logic

A suspension bridge was next. It moved like it was alive. The planks swung at uneven intervals and the ropes creaked like they hated us. I stepped aside.

Your call on lead, I said, wind biting into my voice. My balance is tight but if this bridge rolls, your Tapas might give us more margin.

I let her take point there, because of her abilities. I clipped my tether line—makeshift, nothing physical, just a Force-threaded mental timing link between our movements.

Every two planks, we matched pace. When she shifted, I mirrored. When she slowed, I braced… and when the gust hit hardest halfway across, I called out—not loud, but enough.

Barrier pulse on your go. We stopped.


I pulsed the Force upward. We surged forward two steps like a wave rolling through the storm. It wasn’t elegant. It wasn’t graceful… but it worked.





Personal Reflection

I don’t know her well. But I respect her already.

She doesn’t overreach. She doesn’t undercut. She moves.

We don’t need to talk much. We don’t need to be friends.
But on that ledge? On that swinging bridge?

We were a unit.
And we didn’t fall.

One leg down.
Two hearts still beating.

Let’s see what this storm throws next.

Michael “Turtle” Angellus



Saphira Ohm Saphira Ohm | Briana Sal-Soren Briana Sal-Soren
 
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Lossa now stood where Romi, Matsu, and others had waited for those taking the course to arrive.

A hand cradling the echo stone she had received on her very own run through this trial. Recalling the details as she looked out over the scene. It had been a trial for sure, and one that she had needed in some ways. Revealing in herself that she was capable despite the odds. Setting her on a path even she could not have seen with her wildest daydreaming. From the time of landing until the whole trial had ended, she had never been undermined or made to feel less than.

A joyful if difficult experience as she tried to remember what the starting point had been like.

Her eyes narrowed sharply as the memory came to mind. Turning to look at Briana about the matter while her hand clenched around her own echo stone.

"Did you get PADI to greet them at the landing zone?" Tone somewhere between incredulous and annoyed as her face made a slight frown at even mentioning the droid.

As much as she enjoyed the direct nature of the construct, the droid should have been updated some time ago in her mind. Amazed it was still able to move despite it's age.

"How is PADI even still moving? High mileage oil and grease must work wonders."

 



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Equipment: Kas' Gear | Echo Stone
Tags: Voli Cholrass Voli Cholrass
Mentions: Brandyn Sal-Soren Brandyn Sal-Soren | Briana Sal-Soren Briana Sal-Soren | Lossa Aureus Lossa Aureus | @Other Jedi
Location: Eadu - Southern Edge | Wind-Shear Cross
Objective: Work with Voli | Complete the First Leg


Kas turned his attention towards Voli, a fellow Padawan Learner who was with him, Jedi Knights Kellan Jericho Kellan Jericho and Kyric Kyric on the planet Katabasis. The expedition had its tests with Kas and he wasn't going to dwell on the past. Lives were at stake during that assignment he volunteered for. He wasn't going unprepared or limited ever again what was endured Kas wouldn't allow Kharis and Caden to be at risk ever again.

Motivated from the experience Kas became more isolated around fellow Jedi all due to the few who were possessed by the spirits back on Katabasis. Only Caden, Kharis and his master Jedi Knight Aiden Porte Aiden Porte have been able to discuss matters but those conversations were very brief and short.


"I don't feel or sense any darkness, Voli."
Kas just kept that response short and simple. He wasn't detecting any.

"Good, training is training. On and off the field." The late-teenaged Padawan Learner replied to Voli.

He walked towards where the First Leg of the course with her. Kept his awareness raised while he examined what was in store for the pair to endure throughout. Kas felt the winds howl and swept against his body. Closing his eyes over to focus on using the Force ability he had practiced back on Naboo in the peaks of Gallo Mountains. The body temperature was being adjusted while using the ability Tapas to endure the cold.

Kas walked along the first narrow ledge, doing what he can to maintain a centre of balance as he progressed. The winds continued to sweep throughout the area. Cautiously and slowly he was mindful of his footing as one slip on these ledges can be fatal.

Next coming up throughout the first leg of this course was a pair of suspension bridges that had to be used to make it across to the Second Leg to undergo. Paused in his tracks to observe Voli to see if she was managing.



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"Yeah, he greeted them already and they're on the move." Briana gave a small, noncommittal shrug at the questioning of how PADI was still functioning, momentarily lowering the macrobinoculars as Kas and Voli made it to the start of the first leg, turning her eyes on Lossa with a raised brow. "It's easy to keep a droid running, just gotta make sure you keep up on the routine diagnostics and replace the guts every so often. Pretty basic stuff."

Her lips pursed, briefly wondering if the comment had anything to do with SID-10S "Sid" SID-10S "Sid" who was still laid out in scorched fragments on her workshop bench, or if it was her own guilt chasing her. His chassis had been burned through in three places, the servo relays fused. She hadn't touched the memory core yet. Couldn't. Keeping a droid running was one thing. Fixing one that'd been torn apart by blaster fire, that'd protected Zeriana until the very end, was another thing entirely.


She yanked the poncho a little tighter around her person, eager to refocus her mind onto the task at hand and away from problems she couldn't solve, the rain cutting sideways now as sheets of it rattled across the outpost platform like static. "The only team that hasn't moved yet is Bastila's." The frown that followed wasn't annoyed so much as puzzled. Of everyone here, Briana had expected her sister to be the first onto the course. Bastila didn't do hesitation once she'd made a call, no. She followed it through. A Sal-Soren trait, for better or worse. "Maybe they're waiting out the wind-shear window..." she mumbled to herself, considering what she might do if she were in their position for the first time. "They'll be waiting until dawn, if that's the case." Which was to say, forever. Dawn didn't come on Eadu.

Lifting the macrobinoculars again, she scanned the course, tracking Michael Angellus Michael Angellus and Saphira Ohm Saphira Ohm . Not a pairing she would have initially imagined working, but one that was making the most progress thus far. She hummed with a small amount of approval, filing that knowledge away for later use, t
humb hovering near the comlink clipped to her belt as she watched them begin their cross over the suspension bridge. The planks bowed and swayed from under the wind. Once, then twice, and after the third time, Briana finally pressed the button. "Medical Waypoint One, keep eyes on the bridge, Team Aurek is crossing and Team Besh is approaching, winds seem to be picking up."

A burst of static, then a voice crackled over the shared link. "Acknowledged, medical teams on standby." Her finger lingered on the com before toggling to a different frequency.
"PADI, what's the timer on Team Cresh?"

"Seven minutes, thirty-four seconds of inactivity."

Briana's brows rose. "Give them two more minutes, then implement Motivator One."

 
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