Star Wars Roleplay: Chaos

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Private The path of Ambition

Detro

Guest
D
Two hundred and forty years. Such a long time for most species, and yet, only into adulthood for an Anzati. However, what it was a long time for, was going without ever having fed on the soup. How he craved it, how he wished that there was a way he could grab one, set them into a trance like he knew he could, and then suck it right out of their head. The power it would grant him. And yet, he refused. Detro Nacti, that was his known name at least, was probably one of the strongest willed Anzati who hadn't become some kind of Jedi.

However, for all his cunning, his will, and the power he did have, there were facts that just couldn't be hidden by simple talent. Like aging. Because, compared to a human, he did not. His former faction was prided on that, humanity. And he had managed to weasel his way high into its ranks before he realized what a useless endeavor that was. Even if he hid that he was not aging compared to them, they would eventually discover him. And his lies would be strewn across any who would listen. But if he were to find somewhere where it would not matter. Or somewhere they simply would not notice. How pleasant would that be.

It was truly fortunate that his discovery of the Valkan Guard occured mere days prior to an open exam matter. Some kind of trial or test in which outsiders could run through to potentially join their group. The Anzati got passage to the planet, his arrival would be soon, early enough to ensure he would be prepared to be a part of the trials. This was going to be an interesting endeavor.
 
The whole of Eriadu was abuzz when it was announced that the Valkan guard, the viceroy's personal guard was starting with its open hiring days again, allowing for those who didn't go to the imperial academy, but still had confidence in their abilities to try out the grueling, harsh trials of the historical Houseguard of House Nargath in order to gain a well paid job for the man held respo,sible for the Eriadu system's revival into greatness.

With the massive Valkan citadel having opened it's doors for those willing to attend the trials, there were many transports from the bigger cities leading towards the impressively, enormous palace complex, making sure that any of the people willing to try their luck and ability to be able to attend this occassion.

Within the large capital city of Eriadu, wracked by the planet's industrial pollution, large screens depicted possibly the most interesting of the whole affair, with Valkan guards of all sizes standing in line within their armor:

"On the job we are all the same, we are not human, twi'lek or Wookie, we are Valkan guards as long as we were the armor."
 

Detro

Guest
D
This was indeed a big event for this world. His arrival to the complex was mixed with so many others it was insane. Of course, they would not all make it in. He intended to ensure that he did. There was no change of expression on his face. It appeared neutral, with nothing but determination. But underneath there was a cunning. What some of these people trying to get in lacked, he had. Perhaps he was merely an adult when compared to other Anzati. But he still had 240 years of experience, and just as importantly, he had the force. Not that anyone could actually sense that. He had learned long ago how to hide his abilities from others.

He looked upon the Valken guards, lined up, and yet not uniform. They spoke of species not mattering, good. The armor would hide all. The armor looked to be heavy, but he'd learn to use it properly. Now it was just a matter of getting into whatever trials they had. He folded his hands behind his back, "Let's get started, shall we?" he said to himself.

Yes, these people could serve sufficiently. He could grow within them. Not just among the Valken guards themselves perhaps. But if his skills were sufficient, to even greater respect.
Credius Credius
 
Upon his arrival, Detro would notice that in front of the massive palace complex there were long tables behind which a whole row of officials were seated to take names and administer section numbers, these numbers corresponded with each group that was allowed entry to the Valken Citadel itself, which housed the Valkan Guard's training and recruitment center within it's large western wing.

When he would be given his number, the Anzathi would be part of group number 83, which under escort of two armored members of the Valkan guard would be brought to the western wing via the Palace's renowned gardens, which illicited some amazement coming from several of the group's members. While under the Viceroyalty of Credius Nargath Eriadu's atmosphere was being scrubbed and organizations that stood for the planet's ecosystem preservation were being placated, one couldn't simply disregard the fact that the efforts of generations of heads of the Nargath Marquisade had managed to maintain a prestiguous garden filled with numerous indiginous and exotic plants rarely seen on Eriadu.

Apart from the garden, the Palacecomplex itself did not lack any interest either, as it was by far one of the tallest, old buildings on Eriadu, predating the square, simplistic shapes which had been built after the galactic empire's reign over Eriadu and the continued influence of that period. Stained glass, impressively high spires and just the sheer magnitude of the building evocated admiration and awe among all within Detro's group.

After quite a walk, the group managed to reach the entrance to the western wing, where they'd be lead through numerous halls and corridors filled with both on duty and off duty members of the Valkan guard walking around, some even greeting the groups as they entered into their domain. Eventually though, Detro's group was lead into a large aula, where each member of the group was appointed a seat and handed over a datapad. "Welcome ladies, gentlemen and those of unspecified gender to your first step in our recruitment process," A booming voice could be heard as a tall, muscular man dressed in the black off-duty uniform of the Valkan guard entered the Aula. Holding a datapad in his hand, the man raised the device in the air and pointed at it fervently. "Each of you has one of these either in front of them or in their hands. When you touch the screen, you will see that there is a simple questionnaire that you'll have to fill in. Do remember though, that this questionaire is part of the recruitment trials."

Grabbing a long, wooden stick, the man slapped it against an old-fashioned blackboard behind him, upon which three words were written: Intelligence, strength, skill. "We highly value each of these and you will be evaluated on each of these. This is the first part, intelligence...allright, you may begin."

The questionaire was shorter than most would expect, but it did show what they were looking for, as it consisted out of a variety of questions regarding veritable tactics in extraordinary situations, situational decisions regarding problemsolving and funny enough even a few simple math and logistic questions to test the people that had signed up for the recruitment. "You have thirty minutes, after which I'll be bringing you all to the central courtyard where Lord Willhuff Nargath and the venerable Marquis-mother will adress everyone from today's groups."
 

Detro

Guest
D
Their arrival was greeted by organization and massive structures and lines. Such an event this was indeed. And every detail he kept in mind, his groups number, 83, the terrain, the gardens, the palace-complex in its size and age, all of it came to him. It was not that Detro was unimpressed by the many features of this location. But that he had a goal in mind aside form sight-seeing, and at the moment the greatest of attention was vital. Depending on the type of group this was, there may be some kind of test on how much they had noticed along the way. So he kept all the most important details, the layout. Anything he saw was data.

Finally they were brought into corridors and halls, and now to be appointed seats and datapads. He didn't touch it until it was time and they spoke on them. They had a questionaire to fill in, part of the recruitment. Intelligence, strength, and skill. Well, the first and last he wagered he'd have down. However, he believed such simplistic methods of testing was likely not going to be efficient. He knew how to test though, he'd dealt with enough paper-work and fake scenarios in his former military position that most things were trivial.

He chuckled to himself as it brought up tactics, problemsovling, math, and logistics. They had a short amount of time. Which meant decisions would have to be made carefully but quickly. "Certainly helps when you've already been a commander and a soldier doesn't it." he said shaking his head and breezing through the majority of the quiz. Tactics, strategy, problem-solving, those were easy, he'd done those many times on paper and real time. Math? He'd had to calculate plenty of times in order to ensure proper resources and formation were done, along with how taxation worked. This was all just the beginning though, the matter to ensure they at least were semi-able. There was more to be done.

Even after he was done he kept looking at it until the time was up, to ensure he had done everything properly. However, he was awaiting the moment when they would finally see "Lord Willhuff Nargath and the venerable Marquis-mother" which should be interesting. He wondered how malleable their minds were. He kept his awareness open, his mind seeing more then his eyes ever could.

Credius Credius
 
When the alotted time was running out, the instructor spoke up, telling everyone to put their datapad's down. Using his own datapad, the man seemed to check something, after which he named six names from the people in the group. It seemed the ones he called out for, had not been able to finish the questionnaire and were immediately deemed to be unfit for the consecutive tests. "Even if others may have failed in regard to giving the 'correct' answers," The man looked at the six who had risen from their seats and pointed towards two Valkan Guards in armor who entered the large aula. "In a pinch, it is always better to have at least some form of solution rather than none. Thus, those who are unable to fully complete the questionnaire are to be considered a liability when it comes to problemsolving under pressure."

With the six members of the group being escorted away, the instructor downloaded the contents from each of the datapads onto his own and motioned everyone to follow him to the central courtyard. "One-hundred and eighty groups of thirty people, how many do you think get through at the very least the first two tests?" The man looked at Detro for a moment with a grin one his face as the group started to move. "More or less twenty per group...but after the third test only three per group are truly deemed fit enough, generally speaking this open hiring has a less than one percent chance of succes and it is still this popular."

At long last, the group reached the central courtyard, where a stand had been made so that Lord Willhuf Nargath, brother to the Head of the House and Family could say a few words to the aspiring people who wanted to become part of the Valkan Guard, which since ancient times had been the Houseguard or personal legion of the Nargath Marquis. These days, their role had been greatly expanded, as the Marquis of the Nargath Household had risen to the position of Viceroy of the Eriadu system within the confederacy for independent systems.

However, when the rather pudgy man wanted to rise from his seat to walk over to the stand and deliver some encouragement to the people who had come to recruitment day, Willhuf immediately sat down again, when suddenly every on-and off duty member of the Valkan guard slammed their fist against their chest. "You all came here with a singular purpose, to become part of the elite guard that stands between Eriadu and those who wish to harm it," A tall man with silver hair and silver eyes walked up to the stand, dressed in the finest silken and romex garments, a deep, bloodred jewel resting on his chest as he now stood before the gathered people. "You will pass through grueling tests, through harsh trials, you will be tired, exhausted and on the brink of collapse...yet the true work will only come after that. Those of you who pass the trials and become a member of my guard, you will see worlds beyond this system, you will meet people you would've never thought existed and if you're lucky...you might even get some action."

With a stern, commanding an extremely authoritarian look, the man gazed at the gathered people, the simplest glance of the man seemed to be enough to give some people the shivers both in fear and excitement. "I survived the Trials of Eriadu, I have been to the imperial military academy and I run one of the galaxy's biggest companies," The man let out a sigh and grinned rather sinisterly. "But the stress of my life, the dangers of my engagements will be shared with those who join the Valkan guard. You will become the shadow behind me, the shield in front of me and the sword in my hand. Experience, Excellence and exemplary...that is all you need to remember when becoming part of the Valkan guard."

With that being saaid, the man gave a motion to the instructors of each group to move on to the next stage, which was the strength part of the trials. Though some might've mistaken it for pure strength of body, it was more a test on overal physical competency rather than strength alone. The instructor of group 83 brought them to a training hall within the western wing alongside a few other groups, where each member of the group would be given a wooden stick and would be asked to remove their shoes and upper garments, leaving only their underwear, no matter what gender. "In some situations, Valkan guards don't have the time to gather their weapons or armor, to prove your worth, we need to see how git you are without any aiding mechanism," The instructor walked over to a Twi'lek woman who had managed to undress herself rather quickly and grabbed her by the arm with a silent nod. "Physical fitness is required to stand besides the Viceroy, for do not mistake the man's age, he may very well be stronger, faster and much more capable in combat than most of our members. Allright, you all will be paired up and you'll fight with a simple wooden stick in that circle, the winners remain, the rest can go home."

With that being said, the instructor pointed at Detro to move towards a five meter wide circular mat, where he had already guided the twi'lek woman onto. "First one to surrender or move out of the circle loses...begin."
 

Detro

Guest
D
Six names were called out. Detro considered the possibility they were special and had done something well, until he sensed several people feel sudden urges of considerable unease. No, it was not that they'd done well. More people were concerned about that statement then there were excited. So then, they had failed right off the bat. Indeed the instructor was right, a bad, or even wrong solution, was sometimes far better then no solution at all. Especially for those in command.

The man began to mention statistics. They were important, they helped assure Detro of the difficulty of this. Twenty per group was pretty good actually. That implied that the first tests were not in fact the most difficult of them all. However, he had no intention for falling for it should that be a way to attempt to ease their minds. He did however assure them that the last would be ever so much harder. Well, this Anzati had no intention of failing any of them. Nor being at the bottom. He needn't take the top position, unless it really was a simple task, but taking first place and risking everything was a fools errand. The instructors gaze would meet the Anzati's, he would see not fear nor excitement. Only the presence of a man who'd been through all this before. Testing, difficult, strife. These were all things he'd done many a time before. Obvious or not, that is what he might see.

Finally, the man and woman who he was expecting to see, as they passed into a central area. And yet, instead of them speaking, another entered the scene. One that, regardless of the realization of the rest. Might be far more powerful. He spoke of the harshness of these tests. Of the reason they came. Of how they would be by the end. He would be disappointed if the man was completely wrong. After-all, if they were elite, then even with the experience and abilities he did have, he better be pushed to the brink either here or in training. True elites train not just as a team, but to peak the individual to their greatest level. He also spoke though of what they would gain. Of his own power, and of their jobs beneath him. He sensed their fear, the way the mans gaze sent shivers down their spines. He stopped, his gaze, hit the jewel. All of a sudden he realized he could sense force potential within the man. How delicious that would be, how much extra would it give him. He swallowed, but aside from that. There was no other sign that Detro had sensed anything, at least outwardly. Detro himself had learned to hide his abilities a very long time ago. But it was not just the man himself, but the jewel. It seem to flow...it felt like there was more then one within that jewel. There was a fear that suddenly clenched his heart, it was not of the man, but of that gem. He sensed powerful, dreaded, darkness within it. His gaze was fixed upon it for a moment longer then he liked before he finally broke and calmed himself again, glancing at the eyes of its wearer. How much did the man understand? How much of a threat was he? Silence. Open and wild thoughts are the play-things of the clever. I have dealt with those of others enough times myself, no matter how much darkness is within this man and his jewel, I shall not let it taunt me. Even should it taunt these people who don't even know what hides beneath. No, I must learn from it. When I am near him, I shall reveal my power within the force. And then perhaps I shall see just what it is he knows.

"You may shiver the body, but do not waver your will. Because when it takes just a look to shake you, you are not cut out for any war." He said, quietly, but aloud. It was a statement he told to his soldiers. Not that he didn't know how to strike fear, but if the mans will could shake easily, then on the battlefield when friend fell beside them they would fall too. Not to catch them, but in heart. And as they realized death was so close, they would un-wittingly greet it.

Now came the next orders. They had to strip, but only barely. He removed his with simplicity but with the experience of someone who knew if they didn't rush to get undressed they'd not be getting a shower that night. He looked at the instructor as he explained the reason, and as he spoke to a Twi'lek girl. Only those who succeed can stay.

He stepped onto the circle, whirling the stick around his body testing it's weight and balance before holding it in his left hand around a third of the way up the new weapon. It seemed he was paired with the woman. He stepped onto the mat after her, nodding to the instructor with his final comment on how to fail, Detro looked at the woman. As a Twi'lek, he knew of her disadvantage. The Soldiers where he was from all did, don't mess with a Twi'leks head-tails. It's painful. He smiled at her and gave a friendly but formal nod,
"Succeed or fail, I hope we can both gain something from this encounter. I won't go easy on you, advantages and weaknesses, I hope you'll give the same courtesy."

Credius Credius
 
The Twi'lec woman hardly registered the anzati's call for a proper fight, after all, she had her own dreams, ambitions and desires and she knew one thing: the chance of this guy being more limber than she was, was quite improbable in her own mind. She had been an exotic dancer and entertainer for most of her life and as such was fairly certain about her physical strength and agility. In an attempt to prove this, she swung herself low, grabbing the stick on one end with both hands and aiming to take Detro by surprise as she swung the stick low over the ground, aiming to slam the man's feet from underneath him and to unbalance his initial stance.

The instructor simply grinned and watched the fight with interest, all the while pointing out to the others to start their own respective duels as well, after all, there was a quota to be meet by the end of the day and he wouldn't be letting them gawk the entire time at a single fight.

Detro
 

Detro

Guest
D
Credius Credius
She didn't speak, but he could sense some of her intents. He sighed. He had years of experience over her in combat probably, and decades more of just being accustomed to taking advantage of the body. Adding onto that a natural physical ability and the fact he could sense things coming more easily. However, he was a soldier and an assassin in training. Since in this scenario, he was only fighting her. He had already plotted out a good bit of what he wanted to do.

She began to make her first move, unfortunately, she did not choose to take advantage of the quick strikes the stick should have been used for. Attempting to duck down and go after his feet. A big mistake for the light type of weapon she was using, were this a lightsaber, or even a vibro-blade, that could have been reasonable. It was not however, and had little combat power.

He planted his feet already preparing his own strike even before the weapon slammed against his braced leg. He felt the pain of course, running through. But he'd felt much worse and kept going. She however was in for a treat, should she not move out of the way, he would jab the end of the weapon like a short spear directly towards her now low-held head, particularly aiming for her right head tail, the one on his left. Part of the head-tails held the brain, but even if he was slightly off from that reletively short area, Lekku were known to be extremely sensitive. And with the power and precision with which he plunged the simple stick downwards a lot of damage could be done.
 
It was indeed a smart move to brace his leg for the impact, that way Detro managed to avoid being toppled easily by the twi'lec's first strike. However, what he apparently did not notice was that the instructor who had singled her out at first and had put her against the Anzati was looking almost exclusively at their fight, as if he knew their was a lot more going on in that one compared to all the others.

The Anzati's initial reaction was to be considered correct in almost every case. Alas, what he probably wasn't aware of was the physical flexibility this aspiring girl possessed, as she reacted with great reflexes and with amazing agility and acrobatic skill. No sooner than when she realized that her strike would not yield the desired result, did she shift her weight to the side, rolling right out of the incoming strike's jab and as she rolled aside, the girl hoisted herself into a quick hand stand, shifting her weight yet again on both hands to spin herself around in order to slam her feet one after the other into her opponent's chest with great force.

The Instructor looked at his datapad and smiled for a moment. "Seems Milord was correct...these two are the ones to watch."
 

Detro

Guest
D
Credius Credius
Detro was far too focused on the moment to fully understand they were being so thoroughly watched. The Twi'lek was fast, were he not a 250 year old anzat, she would have posed a much better threat. But she was using the wrong tactics in his opinion. He rnext move was another "long" move as he might call it. Something which took more time then the strikes and straightforward kickes he was trained to preform, which also had a faster recovery time making his jab much less of an issue to get back from in spite of its miss.

She went into a hand stand, and then tried to kick him in the chest. Long move. Wrong move. Last time she'd only realized her mistake once she hit him. Again, instead of dodge. He brought the stick up and forwards, intending on slamming it right into her knees or the back of her knees depending on how she was angled. If he forced this into a grappling match, her flexibility would only barely serve her an advantage. He probably had superior strength, and if he could grip her tight enough no amount of flexibility would save her. By moving the stick in the way he did, he'd either force her legs to bend, or potentially damage them by pushing against the kneecaps.

Should that succeed in either hurting or preventing the kick, and if his hands were close enough, he'd drop the stick and grab her by the legs but crossing his arms. The reason, even if she tried to grab his legs too, he'd intend on twisting hers to opposite sides whether or not her upper torso twisted with it. If it did, then she wouldn't be able to hold onto his legs properly, if she didn't twist with it then it'd give him a chance to shove against her kneecaps while pulling back on her feet. Threatening the tendons and joints.

If it was not the case that he was close enough to accomplish this, he would keep his staff and simply keep distance. Never getting close enough to fall outside of the area or be shoved out easily.

It's a shame she didn't use her abilities more efficiently. She really was very fast and agile. But she didn't understand completely how combat work. Dedication and natural physical ability alone do not win a fight. You must learn to understand your opponent, and attack them with methods that are the most difficult for them to defend against.
 
The anzati was right on the mark to think this woman was not entirely on point when it came to actual fighting, as her entire moveset was basically based completely on her flexibility and dancing prowess, which did grant the twi'lek a lot of unexpected moves from wild and undefended directions, but did make her lacking in the basics which compiled a good fighter to begin with. Even so, the instructor was interested in this fight for a simple reason, he had gotten word to watch Detro on the orders of a superior and was keen to see why this was demanded of him.

With the stick hitting the back of her knees before she was even able to perfectly calibrate her direction of attack, the Twi'lek lost her balance and fell backwards, as such also removing the Anzati's opportunity to grab the twi'lek's legs properly. Forcing herself in a roll to regain her balance, the Twi'lek woman got back up and grabbed the stick, narrowly reaching the edge of the circle. She was breathing heavily due to the fast succession of wild, big movements, looking somewhat winded and on guard. It was also apparent that she had trouble stretching her knees, as the earlier hit on the back of them had been right on the tendons, making standing up straight a rather discomforting physical position.

Now wholly on the defensive, the Twi'lek kept her attention to the Anzati, only to be distracted by some cheering a few dozen meters away from their position, where a recruit had been thrown out of the ring by a silver-haired, silver-eyed man with great stature.
 

Detro

Guest
D
Credius Credius

Detro watched as she managed to back up. Good, but she was still not pulling enough solid hits herself. If she didn't pick up that skill soon, she was going to lose. If it weren't for that this might or might not determine his joining, he might actually inform her of her issues. However it was important that he succeed in this, and so, he was willing to silence himself for that purpose.

She was close to the edge, she was already beginning to become exhausted. Detro however had done this type of combat a thousand times. Well, not this specifically, but melee combat was a requirement during his military training. So his breathing was rather normal, deep and rythmic. Somewhat quickened due to the fight as might be expected, but not exhausted. He glanced at her knees, the problems it was causing her. He could see it, and he could sense it.

She was trying to avoid him. And then she made a mistake of being distracted by cheering. So he moved, it was fast and it was aggressive. A jab with the stick, one end aiming to slam into her stomach. If she tried to move to one side, he'd bring a leg up fully intent on slamming it into her and shoving her over the line. If she leapt up he'd drop his stick and ram her to throw her off. If she got hit by the stick, she'd either be forced to lean forwards in pain or be thrown out. If she leaned forwards he'd bring a knee towards her face and kick her off the edge. And should she grab the stick, he would simply shove it even harder forwards with a strong grip.

These were the conditions he hoped would be met. Were they not met he'd have to back off again and reconsider. But her distraction, her exhaustion, and her seeming lack of combat experience, were all proving to be great advantages to him. In spite of her clear physical ability, she was not yet a soldier. He almost hoped that he could vouch for her athleticism. But while she was physically able, he wondered whether or not she was prepared for the level of training they were going to have to undergo. The number of mistakes she could make in the future were many.
 
Detro

It was as the Anzati thought, though the Twi'lek had a formidable flexibility and ample strength in her body, she lacked the discipline and the endurance that would be required from an elite soldier within the Valkan Guard. This was made all the more apparent when she tried to get around Detro's retaliation by forcing herself to jump up. Alas it was all for fools, as even though she indeed managed to jump up somewhat leisurely, she was as such unable to guard against the rough shoulder thrust from the Anzati, throwing her clear out of the ring.

The Instructor raised his arm and motioned the Twi'lek to leave, all the while telling those that had managed to win their matches that there was going to be a moment of relief for them all to take a breather and rest a bit before they'd be going through another set of fights in order to thin out the numbers of applicants, seperating the wheat from the chaff in the next few hours. This moment of welcomed reprieve was accompanied with off duty guards and the instructors handing out bottles of water and towels to each applicant that had managed to survive their first fight, yet that did not seem to be all, as all the members of the Valkan guard, both off and on duty suddenly grew quiet and slammed their fists against their chests.

A young trandooshian of probably barely out of his adolescence walked over to the center of the large hall, where upon a hightened metal ring, the man who had been speaking to the crowd before was standing. Calmly the man looked at the trandooshian as he walked up the stage. "Recruits, this is something which has rarely happened within the passed decades, a young recruit who has the outmost confidence in his skills and physical strength has deemed himself superior to me, the one the Valkan Guard are ought to protect alongside the rest of the House of Nargath," Solemnly removing his overcoat, silken shirt and crevate, placing the large jewel he carried into a box one of the Valkan guard was carrying and closing it instantly to seal off its corrosive power through the force, the man presented a toned and muscled body with a few visible scars. "As always, when something like this happens, it is my duty to educate all those among the challenger's peers why one must not be overly prideful of their abilities."

The Trandoshian simply smirked when he heard that, tensing all his muscles, while calling out to the rest of the recruits. "I will only serve those worthy, you...are not worthy and all these recruits will see just what kind of weak person you are."

The human male simply ginned faintly, a sinister and eerie veil masking the reality, as suddenly Credius glanced towards Detro for a mere moment.

The instructor in the meantime breathed in deeply, clacking his tongue while standing next to the Anzati. "That Thrandoshian's going to die."
 

Detro

Guest
D
Detro threw the twi'lek out of bounds and watched as the instructor motioned for her to leave as she did, Detro made only one comment to her, "Practice, learn, train, and you may make it somewhere." Whether or not she listened to him didn't matter. But he felt prompted to give her at least a little advice so that her future may be a little brighter. She had failed to beat him yes, she didn't nearly have the training required. But that didn't means he was useless, for a Valkan Guard she was assuredly not ready, but she could still serve a good job if she learned it and didn't rush in as she had here.

They were brought water and towels, a relief. Well that was nice, though he took his time to see that enough of the others were also drinking before he did. Perhaps there was little reason for them to try and kill him, but he was always on the lookout for an unexpected test. And then something much more interesting happened, a Trandoshan walking up a stage, and Credius Credius explaining the reason as to why.

Detro sighed and put a hand to his forehead for a moment shaking his head. Trandoshans. They were always prone to following their own ways. Much like Mandalorians really. But far more aggressive about it. Mandalorians were more easily reasoned with, Trandoshans were not. But more important then even this, was the understanding Detro had about the situation already. And how it was going to end.

It was time for a fight quite clearly. He knew that before the man explained it. And then Detro heard the words of the Trandoshan. Of all the foolhardy, he had a crown. Detro imagined the Trandoshan was probably slightly lucky, as Credius put the strange jewel, that cursed jewel, at least it felt that way, into a box, hidden away.

But that didn't mean it would save him. There was a sudden glance from the man to Detro. He refused to flinch or even move anymore then otherwise, just to meet the gaze for the moment. The instructor next to him made a comment about the certain demise of the Trandoshan,
"Yeah, I know he can. I just wander if he's going to draw it out or not."

It would be time to test it, if Detro was right, now was the time. He was given a break, he could see the man clearly. He stopped hiding himself in the force. Any normal person couldn't sense it, but for those who were capable of sensing the others in the force it would indeed be clear. If Credius hadn't already known or guessed about it, he'd know now for sure that Detro was force sensitive. And then just for those few seconds he once again covered it up. Not letting any prying eyes attempt to get in. He wanted to see the mans reaction, either now, or later.
 
"Just watch and see," The instructor sighed, holding his hand tightly to his chest, unaware of the Anzati's use of the force and the invisible force within the room. "Witness what the strength of Eriadu's ideals has wrought."

The Trandoshan cocked his arm backwards, even if Credius was no small man of the human species, the Trandoshan was still a full foot taller, with ripped muscles, sturdy scaled, leathery skin and several horns and bumps on the ridges of his brow, head and neck. In short, he was an adolescent male of a stronger race and in his prime against a male human past his physical prime.

In a flash, the Trandoshan moved his cocked-back arm forwards, performing a downward slash with his sharp claws, yet to his own surprise, Credius had already gotten within his personal space by stepping forward instantly, slamming one palm hard underneath the Trandoshan's armpit before slamming the palm of his other hand hard against the Trandoshan's chin in a sideward motion. "Surely, this is not all you have?" The older human male took a step back, while the Trandoshan spat at the ground, rubbing his chin for a moment, looking a bit confused at Credius. "You come here to challenge me for some reason, I assume you have to gain something out of this, no?"

Again the Trandoshan jumped forwards, lashing out with a flurry of punches and jabs and though strong and fast, he was wild and uncoordinated, even when throwing so many punches, all he did was tire himself out and create one opening after the other. Again, the older male slid through the assault with little effort, ducking down low and driving one of his elbows into the Trandoshan's solar plexis, before again aiming for the Trandoshan's chin with a well aimed, merciless upward palmstrike. "You call me weak and unworthy," The Marquis and Viceroy of Eriadu calmly flexed the muscles in his arms, shaking off the strain within them, while the Trandoshan had fallen to his knees in front of the man, quickly trying to recover his balance and getting angrier with every word the older human male spewed out at him. "Yet, here we are... you in the place you belong...kneeling before me."

"That Trandoshan has no self control," The instructor calmly noted while observing the fight. "That's basically suicide against anyone who's passed the imperial academy's finals with the highest honors and has actually gone through the trials of the Spire."

The Trandoshan, angered and losing focus, bristled loudly and tried to get up in a rage, but a swift jab against his throat made him stagger before he had reached his full height, followed by a quick thrust just below the ribcage again forcing him to his knees.
"I said you belong on you knees," Instantly, Credius leaned down and grabbed the trandoshian by the wrists, forcing him to rise up, no longer fully conscious, but still fuming with anger. "Let's end this charade, shall we?" Swiftly and brutally, the viceroy pulled the Trandoshan's wrists down, while raising his knee so fast against the Trandoshan's chin, that this time the sound of teeth shattering could be heard through the room and as the Trandoshan fell to the ground, the viceroy placed his boot upon the lizardman's neck, all the while looking at the Anzati with a cruel and sinister smile.

"In here there is but one law, you are to serve and protect the House Nargath, those that are deemed a threat or a danger to any of the House or its members do not deserve mercy or peace...they only end up..." The air became thick and stifling for those able to sense the force, a shadow looming not just over the man who stood triumphantly over the Trandoshan's unmoving body, but throughout the entire hall and perhaps even beyond. Though the jewel managed to somewhat mask it earlier, now anyone who had some connection, some sensitivity to the force could feel the overwhelming darkness that flowed, nay poured out of the man at the center stage. This man wasn't just some noble in the outer rim, not an acolyte of the force nor an adept, but a fully fledged master, one whom's mere presence in the force was enough to overwhelm the lesser among the force sensitives. "Death."

A sickening crunch could be heard when credius twisted his boot upon the Trandoshan's neck. Suddenly showing a courteous smile, the Viceroy took a bow and went to dress himself, while some were shocked, the majority of those present suddenly cheered almost frantically, scanting his name loudly in an almost unnatural adoration. "Told you... he's not someone you challenge unprepared...or alone." The Instructor chuckled and motioned those of his group to gather around again.

Detro
 

Detro

Guest
D
Detro watched the fight, Credius Credius had considerable speed, strength, and skill. It was clear he was a fantastic warrior. The Trandoshan was, well, dissapointing. In many ways he relied on his strength and abilities just as the Twi'lek had. Not fully comprehending that a persons physical capacity does not mean they will automatically dominate an opponent. That, and he believed it was likely Credius was more capable then the Trandoshan even on matters of pure ability, whether or not that ability was physical was a different matter.

The fight went just about as expected. The Trandoshan fell with ease while the man taunted him and used him as a lesson for the others. He heard the instructor speak about the suicide of the Trandoshan, "If I'm honest, I thought the Trandoshan would do better. Not in that fight specifically, but as far as skill goes. He's a disappointment. For a Trandoshan...he was awful." Detro had lived a long life and Trandoshans were usually much better skilled. But, this one was young. He was probably very strong, but he lacked the skill that he would have expected from one.

The Anzati watched shaking his head as the Trandoshan was about to be...Detro started breathing just a little bit faster. He felt the darkness closing in, how the world seemed to be trying to collapse around him. The others didn't feel it. They didn't sense the way a chasm was trying to suck them in like a black hole. Ripping everything along with it. Detro kept his eyes focused, kept his body still. He wasn't going to let everyone else know what he was feeling. He wasn't going to show them. If this was a test of his resolve, he refused to fail. If it was a test of his ability to remain hidden even when the force felt like it was trying to crush him would waver, he'd refuse to fail that too. Detro wasn't trained in force combat. But he knew a lot about some of it. And he knew a good deal of his own things about the force, things he'd used many times. Unfortunately they were not as useful here. He had to resolve to control himself and push back from letting himself waver.

He didn't hear the crunch of the Trandoshan, too caught up in more important things. He saw that as a possible sign, or a messege. It could have had a number of meanings. Whether a warning, or an invitation. Or simply a statement. He just had to act so that he could accommodate him. The instructor mentioned again about Credius not being the type of person to attack unprepared or alone. But Detro was quite sure even if you weren't alone, there was not going to be all that much you could do unless you were very powerful yourself.

Or maybe if you brought a fully equipped army. That might help.

They were motioned forwards, and so Detro followed along. Even though his thoughts were on what would occur with the man, who seemed to Detro more important then the people from earlier. Much more important. He still retained attention to the tasks at hand. With no will to fail.
 
As everyone was again being paired up again, the instructor suddenly got taken aside by another member of the Valkan Guard, who given the fact they were wearing their armor, was an on duty member. For a moment, the armored man stood next to the Instructor, with the instructor glancing at the Anzati for a few moments before the Valkan guard walked over to Detro alongside the instructor.

"You seem to be very lucky or very unlucky, depending on why this is all happening," The instructor seemed rather confused, letting the tall, armored guardsman take the helm.

"You are the one called Detro, correct?" The Valkan guard's voice was slightly modified by the armor he was wearing, the large rifle at his side and a vibroblade on the other side, it was obvious that this man was currently doing his duties as a guardsman. "The Marquis of the House Nargath, Viceroy of the Eriadu star system has requested you presence. You are to gather your belongings and follow me to his excellency's study."

Should the Anzati comply, he would be escorted out of the hall, through numerous corridors, until reaching the private wing of the Valkan Citadel, which was obviously more opulent and richly decorated with numerous portraits of earlier members of the house, yet only in a single hallways, would all the portraits be wearing that same jewel the man he had seen was wearing on stage. Each of them gazing into the void with a slight madness in their eyes, except for one portrait, which displayed a man looking intensely at the painter, not with madness, but with strength and character in those eyes. The plaque underneath would read Baron Arcosius I Nargath.

"We've arrived, please enter through here," The Valkan guard motioned towards a door right accross the painting, the door not made out of metal, but sturdy and expensive worryl wood like all the doors within the private wing, which remained classic compared to the doors in the other wings. As it opened, the room behind it revealed a man standing with his back towards the door, staring out of a large, wall-encompassing window, behind him a large leather chair and a large, lacquered worryl wooden desk with electrum and aurodium finishes. In the middle of the room, there was a small table and a few comfortable chairs, to which the Valkan guard pointed as to have the Anzati settle himself. "If that is all, I will be taking my leave your excellency."

The man who stared through the window, turned around and acknowledged the guards words, looking at Detro with a soft, almost gentle smile. This same man who had earlier killed an adolescent trandoshian and who had managed to rally the Valkan guard so easily earlier. With that same red jewel as depicted on the portraits in the hall, the man seemed unfazed. "Let's get straight to the point shall we?" Tapping on the jewel on his chest, the air instantly shifted and it seemed to awaken, pulsating rapidly with bloodred light. "I'm aware that you are sensitive to the force, so this one will need to be kept in check while you're here. Now than, may I ask what you wish to accomplish by going through the trials of my Valkan guard?"
 

Detro

Guest
D
It didn't take long before the instructor was called over by one of the on Duty guards. Detro watched, from the side of his eyes, eventually turning as the instructor made a comment about fortune, or misfortune, and the Valkan Guard came up to him. He nodded as he was asked about his name, "Yes sir, Detro Nacti." he answered, listening as the guard continued. So, he was to talk with the Marquis. Of course this meant a number of things, what it did not mean, was run. Even if Detro believed that the plan was to kill him, that could have been done out here. It could be attempted at pretty much any time without necessity of attempting any trap. And Detro knew he did not likely have a position that would ensure any need of kidnapping or experimentation, so that was also not a likely option.

So he followed after picking up his stuff and putting it on again. Observing as he went. And especially the paintings and the madness in their eyes. The jewel, he imagined, was the cause. Truthfully he'd be surprised if these people didn't already know that somehow. Perhaps they assumed it was genetic? Oh well, that was history and the present. Whatever actions were taken, the current individual did not bear the same madness. If there was one, it was certainly a different one. Whether or not the jewel had an impact was still of consequence, but in a different way.

Eventually he was taken inside, to see Credius Credius at the window. And would be left alone. He stood without expression, waiting first to be addressed, and see just what it was that the man was going to say. Credius had an expression yes, but how much did that really mean? On a man already hiding his force sensitivity, Detro assumed a mere face was not any more difficult. After all, it wasn't for him. He glanced at the jewel as it was tapped, narrowing his eyes but this time being careful not to look into its thoughts.

Straight to the point, he was aware of Detro's sensitivity, as expected. And then he wanted to know what Detro's reason was for joining. He thought for a few moments about it. The answer really was simple, Detro enjoyed positions of military power, and he enjoyed the order of it. But why the Valkan Guard specifically, that was a little different. There was not much reason to lie to this man, and sooner or later, doing so would only cause trouble. He was probably young enough to see that Detro would not age, and strong enough with the force that Detro would not be able to influence his mind as easily as he had others. So he spoke with truth, collected and to him, simple truth,
"My former position had become problematic. I would have been outed eventually, especially at the rank I was at. A man who doesn't age draws attention and they were under the impression I was like the rest of them. I desired to find a place where I would be able to retain the status of elite skill and have authority, but without as much of a risk of having the military on me for a deception. The Valkan Guard appeared quite skilled, I have years of experience in combat and leadership, so I believed that it would be a good position to take part in." He paused for a moment considering something else, "Your...jewel...threw me off. I could sense many pains coming from it. Like many souls were trapped in a tortousous abyss. Hard to explain but I'm sure you know since you're also force sensitive. I decided to test and see for sure, if you were by stopping my hiding it for a moment. Whether you noticed then or before, I believe it was the best move to make. Sooner or later you were bound to discover it, might as well have it revealed right away."
 
While calmly listening to the Anzati, Credius opened a drawer within his desk and pulled out a pen and some paper, two things rarely used within the galaxy due to the overabundance of technology. However, his own experiences with Doctor benson of the Directorate had made it clear that sometimes this archaic way of recording things was more secure than the use of any AI or datapad. With KRONOS in it's powered down form on the desk, there was no need to be waking the AI just yet. Especially when pen and paper were readily available.

"Hmm, those were some astute observations you have made, I reckon not all just through the force," Standing up from his chair, the man walked over to a small cabinet at the side of the room, opening it to take out two heavy-looking crystal glasses and a expensive looking bottle with an amber colored liquid held within. Pouring the two glasses, the Viceroy now took a seat in one of the comfy chairs on the other side of the table, placing one of the two glasses on the piece of furniture in between, sliding it towards the Anzati. "A long life may be both a gift and a curse."

Taking a sip from the strong liquor within his glass, the Marquis glanced at Detro with his cold, silver eyes for a moment, showing a slight smirk as the corners of his lips curled a bit upwards. "If you have already served within a military and obviously you possess the skills and the techniques, I do wonder what your ambition is," Lowering the glass to his lap, the man's smirk slowly got replaced by a stern, yet somewhat inquisitive expression. It was clear that Credius was trying to see just how dependable and useful the Anzati truly was in the big scheme of things. "First and foremost, I do reckon you have by now figured out that whatever conection to the force I may possess, it is not of the same nature as your own. Does this make you feel uncomfortable in my presence or are you more of a pragmatic mindset to accept that there are more than one truth to the Force in all it's entirity? If you aren't uncomfortable in my presence, I see no reason why I should test you any further and I'd rather start you off immediately as a member of the regular legions, after all...if you are what and who you say you are, you are by far beyond the stage of being a mere recruit."
 

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