Faction (TSE) Apprentice Try Outs

[Quinn Varanin]

//: Common Love isn't for Us //:
//: Auditorium //: Dromond Kaas //:
//: Sylvia Virtos //: Marcis Sorr //: Hailyn //: Darth Prazutis //:

​

The loudspeaker was embarrassing, and Quinn could feel everyone's eyes on her. It helped that her attention was already grabbed by Syliva, who she stuck her tongue out at for a moment as she laughed at the comment nervously. Quinn had done her best at keeping who her Master was and their romantic involvement. The gang mostly knew she had a boyfriend, but felt it wasn't necessary to dive too deep into it. So when Sylv figured out the secret, Quinn blushed furiously and looked at the magenta haired padawan.​

"What?" She forced a laugh knowing that the relationship was 'okay' usually happened after a student was knighted in some situations. Having an apprentice and master relationship was typically frowned upon as it got in the way of education. In the form of some sith teachings, being too attached to a student was a terrible idea. When it came to Vesta, Quinn couldn't help herself; she couldn't stop how she felt or escape her lover's gravity, nor did she want to. Her heart raced just thinking about the kissing lesson that Sylvia teased about.​

Before she could answer, Quinn felt a pair of eyes on her. A glance that knew her intimately. Quinn peeled her eyes away from Sylvia as she glanced towards the auditorium doorway; it didn't take her long to deduce who the gaze belonged to; she knew those eyes anywhere. Whatever else was said to her as she locked eyes with her Master and returned the sly smirk painted on his face with a bite of her lower lip. Looking to Sylvia, she smirked. "Looks like the kissing lesson is today. If you pay attention, you might learn something."​

Standing, the Apprentice moved her way through the passing people as they watched the fire display of Aradia and the fight between the two pure-blooded sith. She had wanted to watch some of the exhibits, but something was far more interesting to her now that he had arrived. The auditorium was lit dimly enough, allowing the Princess to see her Prince in the shadows. Without saying a word, they both knew each other.​

His vibrant red gaze, one that she saw even when she closed her eyes, stared up at her, leaning forward she smiled and ran a single finger under his chin before her lips pressed against his. Every kiss felt like the first time, her heart fluttered, and everyone else in the room disappeared. Sadly, she was well aware that her peers were around along with other Masters. She wasn't aware of her lover's parental figure in the private box with the Emperor of the Empire.​

Not like it would have stopped her.​

Quinn pulled away and continued to smile, "Hey you. Aren't you a sight for sore eyes." It took every ounce of her being to not sit in his lap; Force knew that was her favorite place to be. Patting down her pleated skirt, she took the seat beside him and found his hand, lacing her fingers with his. Looking to him, she pouted, "You're not looking for another apprentice, are you?" Quinn knew the answer, but she did like hearing it - she was his.​

 

[Darth Daiara]

A wash of artificial breeze filtered through the air vent above, brushing Aradia's skin and sending a momentary reprieve across her overheated, sweaty body. She was so focused on her master in the crowd she didn't recognize how familiar this situation felt-- being on stage, eyes watching and judging your worth.

Deciding whether to take you home with them or not.

Her visceral reaction to the setting and Kaalia's presence was beyond her awareness. She had lashed out and that's all it was to her. Kaalia stood, taking purposeful steps towards the stage. Aradia startled a step back, a spike of adrenaline hitting her.

Oh. Oh, that had worked. Oh chit.

She had wanted her master's attention. Well now she had it. The apprentice cleared the stage quickly, giving space to the next unclaimed as her eyes fell to the side door Kaalia would walk through. You know, Aradia hadn't thought this far. Apprehension dimmed her anger, the girl squirming a little as Kaalia broke through the door and walked towards her with attention.

"You said-!" She accused, possessing more of a voice than she did a month ago. Kaalia had sent her to Bastion as a trial. The war was coming, it was time to test her merit. So why was she in an academy filled with unclaimed plebs? The ego was a new thing too.

"I am better- they haven't even- he's fresh off a cart!" Aradia pointed to Kadann , through the new arrival under the bus.

Kaalia Pavanos

 

[Natima Vando]

It was rather foolish of her to not alter her dress ware before hand, but what was done was done. Not to mention she hated walked around with four limbs, her brief time as a Codru-Ji had revealed that to her. Still, she felt she had done well, though the exertion from her display was still taking a bit of a toll on her. Forcing her limbs to grow like that, not to mention leaping right into combat before they had finished their process of shaping, it was a strain on her. It took alot of concentration to fight with two weapons, even more for four. She'd have to practice with it more, get better at dealing with the circumstances behind it.

In the midst of her musing and lamenting the destruction of her shirt, she felt a pair of arms wrapped around her, locking around her stomach. Her heart nearly lunged out of her chest at the contact, her hands moved to grab at the arms initially, but such an effort was stopped as she heard Leliana 's voice. Natima's face turned a bright scarlet, her hands setting gently over Leliana's arms now, as she looked ahead with a look akin to shock. Her heart was beating faster, and the room felt just a bit warmer now. Of all the times for the woman to show up, why did it have to be when she was at her worst? "O-oh, hey Lil...I didn't know you were here." She muttered, swallowing hard as she had not only been caught off guard, but her performance had been seen by the assassin as well; not to mention her attire wasn't exactly flattering. She risked glancing back at the woman, reluctant to risk breaking the embrace that she had been given at current.

You're going to get her killed, just like all the others. That voice in the back of her mind lectured her, but Natima put it aside. Her other situations were no where near as stable as where she was now. No, she could entertain the thought, she could be selfish again. She smiled, trying to think what else to say, as the moment she caught a glimpse of the woman she felt herself go into a stupor. Thankfully it only lasted a moment, but she smiled like an idiot for several seconds. "It's nice to see you again." She winced at how lame of a response that was. Nice to see you again? Seriously? She could do better than that. "I mean, it's always nice to see you." Yea, this was not going well. Pursing her lips, Natima would finally get the strength to turn and face the woman, her hands going to grab onto Leliana's hands before they could be pulled away. Several other apprentices had already moved out to preform or finished their displays as Natima fumbled about. Thankfully it wasn't too packed back stage. "Sorry, just...all that shifting and stuff has got me a bit loopy right now." Well, that was partly true. "So what's a pretty face like yours doing in a place like this?"

She didn't get too far into her sweet talking before Darth Insatious made his offer, the servant of the Sith offering her the pass, as Natima looked a bit dumbstruck at the offer. She had an offer? This quickly? Natima looked a bit shocked, blinking in silence as she stared at the the pass before taking it. Seemed this day was full of surprises. "Thank you, I look forward to meeting your master." She responded, pocketing the pass and looking back to Leliana with a beaming smile. "Well this day keeps getting better and better!"

 

[Kadann]

Fire had always drawn him. Kad could watch it burn for hours on end. It was one of the few times his mind felt truly still. As Aradia had stepped forwards he had foolishly stood up and followed, eyes following the flame.

"I am better- they haven't even- he's fresh off a cart!" Aradia pointed to Kadann , through the new arrival under the bus.

Kadann was on his backside, eyebrows lightly singed. A wisp of smoke rose from his head. Her little flame had exploded into the rafters without warning and he had been far too close.

He looked out into the crowd, visible again once now the light of the flames had died down. Kad was sensitive enough in the Force to feel the raw power arrayed before him. He didn't know to recognise the very Emperor on sight, but the magnitude of his exposure here was very clear. Powerful people were looking at him.

Kad had been in a dark place when someone had come and told him that he was special, that he was more than those around him. Here he was, back at the very bottom, having his shortcomings dragged out for all to see.

Something wound up into a tight ball deep within him. He shrank back for a moment. The ball collapsed into something painfully hot, his lips curled back into a snarl.



Kadann looked around for something to do. Rexus Serixibis continued their duel. Near a rack of wooden and metal practise swords stood a tall, powerful looking man. Another one waiting for their turn, clearly intent on showing is prowess with the blade. He was perhaps in his mid twenties, had half a head in height on Kad and probably weighed half as much as he did again.

"You!" Kad called out, standing up. "Fight me."

The young man looked down at him with utter derision. He turned to the rack of wooden swords, pulled one free and tossed it at Kad's feet. It clattered loudly across the stage.

"Gladly," he said. He took two steps closer and dropped into a basic stance. Even that looked advanced to Kad, who had practised with a sword for all of an hour.

Kadann held his palm open over the ground. The wooden sword shook for a few seconds and then leapt to his hand. It wasn't going to impress anyone.



Kad adjusted his grip on the blade three times before it felt comfortable. People were waiting. He held the sword high and walked forwards. He put too much weight behind his first swing. It was dodged with ease. His opponent was even larger up close; Kad barely reached his shoulder.

His opponent seemed bemused by this, but turned into a tentative offensive routine. Kad blocked frantically. When the acolyte was certain this really was all Kad had to offer, he stepped in and with three quick strikes disarmed him, smacked his hip and then hit his shoulder.

"What a waste of time," the acolyte growled.

With a snarl, Kad picked up his sword again and swung at the acolyte's shin. It connected with a satisfying crack.

The acolyte howled in rage and swung at Kad over and over. Several more blows connected before Kad dropped his wooden sword. This time it was kicked into the crowd. Kadann was taking a beating that would impress no one. The acolyte swept his feet from beneath him and he fell to the stage heavily.

"Yield," the acolyte said firmly, pointing his sword at Kad's chest.

He had been struck several times. These were the kind of bruises that would last for weeks. Kad knew this pain. Kad looked down at the sword between them. He grabbed it suddenly, shuffled ckoser and swung a low kick below the belt.

Kad channeled the pain, the anger and threw it forwards in a telekinetic wave that staggered his opponent. He stood and rushed on, unarmed.

This time the acolyte, eyes watering in pain, swung his wooden sword so hard it broke. Kadann felt something inside himself break too. He ignored it and stepped closer. A quick one-two of punches and he broke the acolyte's nose.

Kadann covered his head quickly, but the bigger man quickly overpowered him again. He was kicked and punched until he was on the floor again. The acolyte moved to pin him, wrapping an arm around his neck.

"Yield!" the acolyte hissed again.

"No!" Kadaan shouted, twisting his head from side to side until he made enough room to bite down. He wriggled and elbowed and kicked.

The acolyte stood up, shoving Kadann back down. He kicked Kadann. He kicked him over and over until Kadann wasn't sure which way was up, until two of the organisers stepped forwards and pulled the acolyte back back.

Two more came out and grabbed Kadann under his armpits to drag him away. Kad looked up as he was dragged away. His world span but his gaze found his opponent. He spat blood across the stage. With it pouring from his lips and filling the gaps between his teeth he looked at the Acolyte who had administered the beating and grinned. Now the man looked genuinely unnerved.

As he was dragged away, he offered Darth Daiara a bloody grin too.

No one would be impressed with his ability with the blade, nor his show of the Force. He still hadn't yielded.


Tl;dr Kadann gets the kark beaten out of him on stage.

 

[Rexus]

Rexus eyed the woman as she readied herself. He could already tell that his opponent probably wasn't going to match him blow for blow. At least, he assumed that was the case. He responded in kind however by removing the cloak from his own person with his left hand. This revealed a scarred and heavily burnt face. In many ways, the two of them were opposites. One was dressed as if they were a champion whilst the other was more of a barbarian or slave. One fielded a weapon of precision and skill, the other a makeshift sword. Most importantly perhaps, was the fact that one was broken and the other wasn't. As she spoke, Rexus answered her with a chilling silence.



After tearing the cloak free, Rexus held it out to the side and dropped it. As it fell, Rexus tightened the grip he had on his blade. As the cloak hit the floor, Rexus charged. Serixibis had just entered her stance and Rexus felt it prudent to waste no time. As he moved, Rexus planned his strategy out quickly. His opponent was smaller, likely faster, and armed with a spear. They held a very slight advantage in range because of this fact, though it wasn't by much. His size and reach combined with his weapon afforded him some distance of his own. Additionally, Rexus knew that a protracted fight wouldn't work out in his favor. He simply wasn't experienced enough with the force to mitigate the effect his injuries had on his stamina. Simply put, he couldn't fight for very long. He had to brutalize his opponent and end it quickly. In order to facilitate such an outcome, he needed to gauge her ability and do it quickly.



Nearing his opponent in short order due to the already somewhat closed distance, Rexus brought his weapon upward, grasped it with two hands, and brought it down diagonally. He aimed to strike his opponent in her right shoulder. Not wanting to kill as he doubted he'd be allowed to, Rexus opted to strike with the side of the sword rather than an edge. He needed to debilitate her and hopefully rob her of some maneuverability at some point. Rexus needed to win here or make an impression at the very least. Failure would only bring him more shame and further prove his weakness. He couldn't nor would he allow himself to fall any further than he already had.

 

[Maya Bir Sinvala]

Maya could feel the strain as her walking cadence now had an uncomfortable stutter. Her mind was tired and the haze had begun to set in. Higher opinions were going to be drowned out by the simple desire to find someplace to rest. Her eyes were half closed as she took each meandering step into the backstage. Time was blurring a little bit but at least the performance high was still in her head, the one that gave her a sly smile on her lips that mixed with the weariness in her red eyes to give off a satisfied melancholy.

The formations of thoughts would drift about in her subconscious waiting for the right moment to calcify and make way in the Sephi's mind. For now though she was just focused on traversing little walkways and creaking hallways to the backstage room for some nice private contemplation. She was now isolated from the small spheres of chaos that dotted the amphitheater. Atleast that's what she thought until an officer had found her and started talking to her. An air of enthusiasm exiting his lips. A certain Darth Insatious seeming to take great interest in her. It sounded sweet like Alderaanian honey to her ears. Yet those ears would be deaf to the measure of fear that may have been laden in the poor soul's voice, unknown to her would be the possibility that his life would pivot on her saying yes or no. For now though she merely gave a nod, a graceful acceptance of the pass and muttered some pleasantries. An old little piece of advice floating around in her head: Don't take the first offer, let it bloom in an orchard and pick the most delicious one.

She continued towards the backstage seeing the officer follow the same path though leaving her behind. Seeing him disappear to the backstage before returning once more a raised eyebrow being briefly added to her expression wondering if she would potentially have company if she accepted. Possibilities were now demanding to be addressed and now she want to think and reflect but her legs were shaking and she was tired of having to rely on this cane. A chair was what she would need. The Backstage area was only a few steps away and as she entered ready to find the closest vessel for cushioned introspection she would instead be greeted by the sight of two women. Natima Vando whom she knew was one of the performances and someone else ( Leliana ).

Maya froze looking at them her eyes opening a bit more and registering something that was under the surface of spoken reality. With it she could feel the bubble manifest into existence. Invisible to the eye, yet Maya could feel it's thorny exterior stop her in her tracks as her body was now terrified of coming closer. Her mind went blank as it helpfully dumped any words of what to say. She felt herself shrink and blood rush to her face, reddening her complexion. She felt like she was disturbing something, a moment put on halt, a moment spoiled by her arrival. Already she was wishing that she never disrupted whatever they may have been having together. Yet that was the past already finalized and swept away. She knew she had to either say something or exit the border of the bubble. She soon found her answer.

"Uh... Hi, uh I hope, I didn't interrupt anything or something. I'm Maya. Mind if I just take a seat, or something I'm just kinda... well uh... Her sentences were littered with jumbled mumbling and she could feel her insides just tear apart. The embarrassment was like searing pain that caused the two sides of her brain to feel like it was being pulled inward and then be ripped apart into two halves again and again and again. Her mind wanting to just disappear and be a speck of nothing in the great abyss. "Sorry" would meekly come out as she just felt locked in place in a prison of perpetual awkwardness.

 

[Charlyra Araano]

​

​

Charlyra knew where to find her master, she walked in and pulled her hood down and ignored the apprentices who were attempting to find their place among the hierarchy. She walked with poise and purpose, being part of the Valkyries had given her that. A lost soul among the fallen Jedi, turned to the dark side and was found in poor conditions by Kaalia Pavanos on Nar Shaddaa. Her curved-hilt shoto in its holster, while two hidden vibro daggers laid comfortably sheathed along either boot. She knew that Kaalia would be selecting another apprentice and that suited Charlyra fine it would be a test for her as much as it would be the new young lady.​

​

"Master," she called with her typical stern-by-the-books voice, "the information you requested."​

​

She handed the small datachip to Darth Avacyn. "I lost the trail just beyond Mygeeto and had to duck several New Imperial patrols before ducking into the Galactic Alliance's realm. I followed your... friend for quite sometime. From Chandrila, to Jakku even a small-time on Kashyyyk and Botor." Chalyra paused a moment before continuing her report. "It seems she has been collecting crystals, I've placed a tracker on her as per your request. The last data transmission indicated she is headed for the so-called Violet Curtain. No doubt seeking her sister."​

​

"The datachip will contain all of my reports and the tracker program so you may follow at your leisure."​

​

"How have the trials gone?"​

​

Darth Daiara | Quinn Varanin | Taeli Raaf | Hailyn | Darth Prazutis | Serixibis | Natima Vando | @Everyone​

 

[Chaos Maxtor]

What a strange sensation Elgyn thought. It has been years since Shi’ido-Gen’Dai hybrid had felt nervous. Legs swinging on the backstage scaffolding his sweaty palms clutched the base of his sandwich like a falling mountain climber to their lifeline. Taking a large bite a drizzle of chadian dressing fell between his dangling feet splatting on the floor below. After a deep swallow and another bite he stood up. He had never performed in a talent show before, so for the occasion he chose to put on his best face. Literally. A human form with long blond hair similar to his typical form but with one of those dimpled chins. A good face might help him muster the confidence to show this crowd exactly what he was capable of.

He had checked the “other box” on the clipboard. He could do combat displays just fine, but where was the challenge in that? Furthermore, wasn’t a combat display the same thing as a display of strength? Probably not. A Force Display? The audience was Sith and from what he could feel from the flow of energies around him; some of them were quite powerful.

Could they feel his presence? Probably so.

An art display could have been interesting. He could splatter paint on a canvas randomly and throw one of the talent show’s competitors at it. In a certain light that could be as art, combat, and strength display. The Sith Lord did not want to get disqualified, so he checked the “other” box.

With the sandwich in his right hand he plucked up a large black case, his ultimate weapon and jumped off the scaffolding. He aimed for the corner in the backstage landing on a large crate rather silently, his feet cushioned by the Force.

Chewing another bite, Elgyn looked at ‘competitors’ not realizing the gathering was a set of tryouts for Sith apprentices. He swallowed and decided that the Sith Empire should host more talents shows.

 

[Kaalia Pavanos]

Mere moments after Darth Avacyn made her way towards Aradia, the girl began going off. She'd seen this side of the girl before but it seemed that no matter how many time the Sith Lady corrected her misunderstood view, she just wouldn't learn. Perhaps a bit of a different approach was needed in order to get her point across. Avacyn couldn't blame the girl for her abandonment issues, but that didn't mean they got in the way.

"Hm?" Avacyn looked at her apprentice with a bit of a confused look, though one that wasn't exactly genuine. "I thought you were about to tell me you were looking for a new master, with the way you just performed on stage." The words were infused with feigned disappointment, looking to turn the situation on its head and paint Aradia as the 'perpetrator' like the girl herself had done to Avacyn on a few occasions now. "I was only here to see what the next generation of Sith had in store, but I suppose if you wish to find someone new..."

A new figure then entered the amphitheater, someone the Sith lady very quickly recognized- Charlyra. Her expression shifted to a welcoming smile, she was happy to see her. The brunette was her first apprentice and she had grown immensely in the years she had taught her. As a Sith knight she was much more independent compared to Aradia. The woman was greeted with a stern nod.

"Perfect. Welcome back, Charlyra," Avacyn replied as she accepted the datachip. Charlyra went on to give a rough outline of where the person she'd followed had been, and what she had been doing. Based on that alone, the redhead knew she had not been let down. "Went right back to business as usual, then. Can't say I'm surprised." After inspecting the chip, Avacyn pocketed it with a satisfactory nod. "Well done. Very well done."

The conversation topic shifted with Charlyra's question, asking about the Valkyrie trials. "There have been some very promising successes after the relocation. Time will tell if they will live up to their new titles. As for future prospects..."

Avacyn turned towards the youngest of the three, drawing Charlyra's attention to her. "This is Aradia. She has been learning under me. Aradia, meet Charlyra, I have told you about her before."

Darth Daiara Charlyra Araano ​

 

[Leliana]

Leliana chuckled at Natima's reaction, almost about to jump out of her skin from the surprise appearance. It did confirm that the redhead hadn't seen her amongst the others, but then it wouldn't have led to such an adorable reaction. She knew Natima had her concerns of not appearing at the best whenever around others, around her in particular. But Leliana had always argued it was subjective, that the redhead was rarely ever 'at her worst' around her, no matter the situation.

She caught the slight glance, and that particular look in Natima's eyes. Leliana knew the redhead had some reservations about them, never gone into detail but the Assassin could tell there was something there. She had seen moments where she had tried refraining from saying or doing something, but ultimately throwing caution to the wind. It brought a smile to Leliana's face, seeing the redhead not letting herself be walled up from whatever had happened in her past.

Amongst their little group, she was closest to Natima. The argument could've been made for Quinn Varanin , but since that fallout the Assassin had been second guessing just how close she had ever been with the Echani. Natima had been the one she had gone to, remembering the redhead had warned her about being careful, which low and behold, came true.

She gave Natima a reassuring squeeze.

Leliana raised an eyebrow as Natima tried to come up with a response, stumbling a little at first. Oh, she knew the toll shifting had on a Shi'ido, but she also knew Natima well enough to know it wasn't just that. She had gotten her good, and was sure Natima would get her back for it in the near future.

As she felt the redhead shift to turn, Leliana loosened her grip only for the woman to grasp her hands. She looked into those green eyes, smiling at her. "Oh you know, I gotta come and support my favourite gal." Any further interaction was interrupted when Darth Insatious ' servant; an officer from the attire, appeared backstage, initially heading towards Maya Bir Sinvala offering her an invitation. Leliana's eyes lit up, realizing what this was and the fact he was approaching Natima next. She gave the redhead a quick hand squeeze before stepping away and giving her space.

The beaming smile on Natima's face was simply infectious, and Leliana grinned in return. "Congrats Nat! Looks like you've already caught someone's attention."

Natima Vando​

 

[Serixibis]

\\. Drommund Kaas, Kaas City Amphitheater.
\\. He is no Brother of mine.
\\. Darth Daiara | Quinn Varanin | Taeli Raaf | Hailyn | Darth Prazutis | Natima Vando | Rexus | Darth Carnifex | Kaalia Pavanos | Maya Bir Sinvala | @Everyone

Silence it is, then. ​

Serixibis scowled, somewhat disappointed in her Pureblooded adversaries' refusal to give his name. What glory was there in a nameless death? In a battle with a stranger? These questions threw her off slightly as her stance widened, dark leather boots shifting as the hulking figure drops his own robe and reveals perhaps why he had refused to speak. That heavy respirator latched to his scarred face told her enough, and while she was certain she was not fighting a cripple he was certainly already damaged.

No matter, if he had survived despite such injuries then he is still a threat.​

Her assumption was proven true moments later as that massive, hulking slab of metal that passes for his weapon is brought upward with alarming ease...but the strike was all wrong. The flat end of the blade caught the air as it moved toward her, slowing it slightly even as Rexus threw his weight behind the strike. Was he untrained? Holding back? These questions too seemed to perturb the Acolyte as she tucked herself down low and to the left, skittering away from the strike and kicking her spear up and over one shoulder!

The polearm of alchemized metal clanks loudly against the chainmail backing of her armor, the fighting edge carving a line out of the stage as it is dragged along behind her! Slithering away from the strike her hips pivot and twist with all the grace and balance of a dancer, the spear swung around in a half-circle aimed at Rexus's legs in an attempt to clip him at the ankles.

She had hunted beasts before and knew that such massive creatures had to be dealt with in pieces.

 

[Onrai]

The arrival of Hailyn , as well as the movement of Quinn Varanin , gave Vanessa Vantai the opportunity she wanted. Looking at Inanna Harth , she smiled. "You want to come with me? There's a... family friend that I'd like to talk to." Once Inanna either indicated she would stay put or alternatively was going to come with Vanessa, she would get up, slowly heading over to talk to the duo. Truly it was as though Ashin Cardé Varanin and Spencer Varanin had been reduced to miniature - albeit this pairing seemed hetero instead of lesbian.

"Hi." She said. "You're Quinn Varanin, right?" She said, looking at mini-Spencer before looking at her partner. "And you must be Vesta. I saw you both over here, wanted to come over and say hello. Vanessa Vantai. An old friend of your parents" - she looked at Quinn before turning to Vesta - "and associate of your uncle."

This was going to be an interesting conversation.

 

[Inanna Harth]

"You want to come with me? There's a... family friend that I'd like to talk to."

Uhhhhh...

Inanna considered (or tried to; her headache simply was not going away) the risks and possibilities she might encounter if she chose to follow this strange woman she had just met into yet another meeting with a stranger. Or two, from the looks of it. Two young people, a platinum blonde and a dark young man. Quinn Varanin and Hailyn were their names. Wait—how did she know that?...

It took Inanna a moment to realize that she had already silently agreed to accompany her new master and followed Vanessa over to where the pair were sitting. Vanessa's voice reached her ears now, saying words, words, words...

"...I saw you both over here, wanted to come over and say hello. Vanessa Vantai. An old friend of your parents—and associate of your uncle."

Her parents? His uncle? Being a Shi'ido, she was usually pretty good at comprehending familial relationships, but she had no clue who these people were, or why Quinn's parents and Vesta's (Vesta? That sounded like a girl's name. Poor guy.) uncle were of any significance.

Vanessa had stopped talking. It was quiet. Inanna blinked. Was she supposed to introduce herself?... yeah probably hurry up and get it over with.

"Uh, and I'm Inanna Hoole. No relation to either of you whatsoever," she said, smiling faintly. Discretely wiping her sweaty palm against her pants leg, she held her hand out in their general direction for a handshake, already sensing somehow that these two weren't the type to shake hands with strangers, sweaty palms or no. Or maybe they were. Never know if you don't try.

Onrai

 

[Rexus]

She was fast. Rexus had expected fast. As his target slipped away, Rexus reversed his hold on the blade. He twisted his form to the right whilst he also took a step backward. He had to keep his eyes on her at all times. He had learned this lesson many, many times in the fighting pits. A lapse in focus or the disappearance of an enemy for even a moment could be disastrous. A few of the more gruesome scars hidden away on his torso were from such incidents. Fights where he thought his enemy finished or his reactions simply weren't fast enough.



With his blade now facing "downward", Rexus angled the tip toward the ground. This enabled him to block the strike aimed for his legs though it was only just barely. The giant Pure-blood loosed a throaty growl as he returned his hold on the weapon to normal. He took several steps back now as his head tilted to the side somewhat. The normal almost hateful gaze of his was now gone. In its place was something infinitely more predatory. He needed an opening and that meant he had to prod his opponent further.



Rexus advanced forward once more. As he moved, he hefted his weapon upward and seized it with his free hand. Now held firmly, Rexus tilted the blade to the left before he launched a horizontal slash aimed for his opponents midsection. He refused to use the side of the blade this time. The strike was a wide but forceful blow. He was committed to the attack and should it fail to land, he would be open to counter attack. Should that occur, he would have to take the hit. Assuming his own blow hit however, He'd hold back enough to prevent a death. One solid hit would probably have been all Rexus needed to end the fight in his mind. It was either that or somehow get a hold of his opponent. Though Rexus didn't care much for torture, the thought of physically breaking an opponent was something he found enjoyable.



That said, all Rexus could hope for was to be the one doing the breaking.
Serixibis

 

[Natima Vando]

At times, she forgot just how much taller Lil was than her, as she gazed into those brown orbs of hers. The woman's words had caused Natima's face to turn as red as her hair, as she truly had no counter to what she was being told. Oh, she'd get Lil back for this, but...well she couldn't go a few moments without the assassin finding some way to fluster her. It was probably that height advantage that she held over her, clearly that was her secret weapon. A small fraction wanted to share something of her past, knowing that the woman seemed genuinely interested in her, and yet she knew all too well where that road laid.

Out of the apprentices she had encountered, Lil held a special place in Natima's mind. Why? Well, there was a wide listing of reasons beyond the fact she was drawn to the woman. Lil was just....alot of things. Interesting, smart, engaging, cute, exciting, and she quickly stopped there. Otherwise she would just get all starry eyed.

You're a coward. You know she'll realize that when she hears the truth. The sensible part of her brain was talking again, and as much as Natima wanted to deny it, she was concerned that could very well be the truth. She had spent much of her adult life running away, ruining the lives of those she had come into contact with. "I'd settle for just you for right now, but it's a tad flattering knowing I have a fan." She chuckled, trying to force those depressing thoughts back into the recess of her mind. It worked for the time being, and seeing Leliana's face light up made the thoughts slip away entirely; it would be back to haunt her, but for now it was out of mind.

It was getting a bit crowded back here. Between the duel unfolding on stage, the fellow apprentices trying to move past the pair, and Maya Bir Sinvala awkwardly trying to talk without interrupting the intimate moment the two were having...well it was alot. Maybe they could go do something together, alone, away from other people, and without a terrorist attack this time. Yes. She would like that. But how to communicate that to Leliana without sounding really lame. "So, are you doing anything after this?" She asked, completely forgetting about the fact her shirt had two rather noticeable gashes along the sides. Glancing to the Sephi girl that was trying to find a seat, which gave Natima some reprieve from how she was losing herself in Lil's eyes. "OH, um, sure just....take a seat anywhere?" She bumbled through her words, moving aside, but her attention fixated back onto Leliana without much delay. "But, yea, if you want maybe we could...do something later?" She suggested, unable to look the woman in the eyes now, as something about Lil's eyes was just...too intense to look at right now. She swore to herself to never let Lil get the drop on her like this again; though it was probably going to happen regardless, especially if they would be seeing each other more regularly.

Leliana

 

[Bel'sa'Nikto]

Serixibis
Objective: Figure out how to obtain training, watch Serixibis' fight

A Kajain'sa'Nikto in clone armour walks up on the fight between Serixibs and the Pureblood. He was itching to get into some training as he had left the Jedi Order following the death of a close friend that he shared names with, that being Clone Trooper Bel. As a youngling, him and Bel would chat after he finished training with his master each day. They'd dream of the glory of battle and the good they'd do for the Republic. This was the days where Bel (the Nikto) was known by his birth name of Kraa, a name he would later drop. Thing didn't go to planned as Clone Trooper Bel went on an ill-fated mission to Vassek 3 to catch Nute Gunray that later turned out to be a trap. After receiving word that his comrade and friend had died, the Order decided to give Bel's armour to the saddened Nikto to help his grieving. This was the beginning of Kraas' fallout with the Jedi.

Intense rage filled the mind of the young padawan. He had been raised to not rely on anger and to meditate when thins bothered him. Ha, that wasn't nearly enough for him to stay a Jedi. He adopted the name of Bel'sa'Nikto (The Bel Nikto) and donned his comrade's armour. His goal was to get off Coruscant by hijacking a ship while disguised as a clone and head to Drommund Kaas where a paid informant had told him that the Sith were there and actively recruiting. Wasting no time, he gathered his lighstaber and some light medical supplies and boarded a V-19 Torrent that was housed at a nearby facility. His master and the Jedi Order had caught on to his plan and attempted to stop him. Bel, not wanting to be put on trial nor stay any longer with the people that allowed his friend to die, engaged in combat. Four Jedi including his former master attempted to cut him down but all failed. Bel'sa was just able to terminate the lives of the worthless Jedi he despised. He re-boarded the V-19 and set course for Drommund Kaas

LATER...

Arriving to his destination, he got out of his stolen aircraft and surveyed the area. He passed through a few rooms and other areas before seeing Serixibis and the Pureblood's fight. Anger flowed through his veins. "Lightsabers!" He had grown to hate the standard colors of Jedi lightsabers and his had long since turned red. He walked to get another angle of the fight, but he tripped on his own boot and fell to the ground. CLANG!!! CLANG!!! CLANG!!! Bel's lightsaber had came loose from his grasp and bounced in front of Serixibis. Though she couldn't see it because of the helmet, Bel's face turned white and he scurried back afraid of what the Sith would do.

 

[Hailyn]

She, or perhaps he, would have liked to have pinned his surprise on being distracted - the Shi'ido's eyes had wandered more than a few times towards the confrontation between Serixibis and Rexus , and more than once towards the rather admirable effort Kadann had put on as he was beaten over and over - but the subtle expression of shock that momentarily appeared on his face was at the openness of Quinn Varanin 's affection. The presence of his, or rather her, father above, albeit out of sight, was obvious to the Sith, as was the similarly timed arrival of his cousin, but neither of them had drawn his attention as they were, unlike him, certainly here for the actual purpose of this event.

Fortunately for him, however, he had Quinn. Teasing and all.

"Only you." He answered back with a smile, though his eyes wandered away from her as two others approached - neither of whom seemed very familiar. Onrai had approached, seemingly tailing his girlfriend from several dozen paces back, and was trailed by someone else he didn't recognize, one Inanna Harth . He allowed the visible confusion - as much of a shapeshifter as he was, he wasn't quite good at putting a name to a face that he hadn't personally been introduced to before - to become apparent on his face before Vanessa introduced herself, the name sounding slightly more familiar, if only just. The look of confusion was still there, however, given the remark about some kind of uncle - which clicked after a second of thought. Still, Inanna had introduced herself first and extended a hand - one which he took to shake, not quite as stuffy as some of the other people here, before turning his attention back to the woman that seemingly worked with his cousin.

"I believe you must be mistaken, Darth Carnifex is my cousin, my father, Darth Prazutis , is his uncle. As far as I'm aware I don't have any living aunts or uncles, although I could be wrong, it wouldn't be the first time." Vesta explained as he pulled his hand back to interlace his fingers with Quinn's again. They were, indeed, as much a couple as they were a pairing, and if she was fine with expressing that openly than so would she - or he. This binary business was getting complicated. Typically at this point the Shi'ido would have shifted back into a face that fit the whole daughter of the Lord of Lies bit, but whatever notoriety he had was entirely second to Quinn in terms of importance. "It's a pleasure to meet you both, though. Was there something you needed to discuss with my apprentice?" He asked, his grip tightening just a little on her hand.

 

[Jonu Zihtil]

Jonu entered the backstage area, listening quietly to the ruckus that was occurring at the front with a healthy mix of disdain and glee. She despised people fighting around her, but enjoyed the thrill of the fight herself. Both a headache and a relief in equal measure. A clipboard was thrust at her to her surprise, the stagehand seemingly unbothered by her figure lumbering over him. Check off one an- He started as she took the clipboard and looked over the requirements. And you wait your turn He snapped, her clawed hand shoving the clipboard back at him.

"A show of skill, limited by choice. Are we to not simply perform for their enjoyment?" She grumbled, stepping away from the now angry man. You need to-

"Silence, and step away before I remove you from my presence." The woman snarled, stepping to the side of the stage in time to see someone in white and red armor tumble, dropping a saber between the pair of fighters( Serixibis and Rexus ). The clawed hand rose only to waist high, word muttered as the lightsaber at the feet of Serixibis rattled for a brief second and passed through her legs. Miss, you-

Claws clamped around the stolen lightsaber, her presence made clear not by the use of the force, but with how deeply rooted in sith magic she was. The lighstaber was held in one hand still while the other hand slowly began to weave a spell. The right hand was a little clumsy in the signs, the left holding the lightsaber.

"Mire in silence, ravage in despair, speak to their mind, wrap about their heart, rend the will to live, remove the will to fight, Darkness take you-" Shadows would slowly emerge on stage as the simple hand gestures seemed to form more of them, the light crack of thunder in a far off place announcing the power as the stagehand sighed in resigned defeat being unable to get a check on the paper.

Can I at least get a name?

"And consume." The final words to begin casting out the negative emotions she felt. The ire she held for this reprehensible and ignorant man beside her. The irritation at having to put on a song and dance routine for the attention of a master. The anger and contempt she felt for the pair fighting and trying to show who was better. The eyes set upon the stage and laughing at them all silently for this display of...what? Skill?

Bah

Voices whispered in the forming shadows, in the negative energy forming between the pair. Whispers of doubt, anger, vile and mean in tone and intent. Words to make them doubt, make them second guess. A wicked and pointed toothed grin came from Jonu as she let the hand holding the lightsaber fall to her side.

TL;DR - Jonu casts Darkness using sith magic on Serixibis and Rexus - Stagehand is being ignored while Jonu has Bel'sa'Nikto's lightsaber

 

[Marcis Sorr]

So many hopes and dreams, some would be fulfilled and some would be crushed - some would find the master of their dreams, some would find a living nightmare, and others would fail here, would fail elsewhere, until no one would take them. Until they were cast out of the Order.

It all amounted to a fascinating cocktail of emotions from which the young Changeling was only too happy to sip.

Having finished his little display and by extension his part of the event, he headed backstage, looped around, and arrived back with the audience in one smooth half-circle, polishing his knife - and picking up some bacta for his self-inflicted wound - along the way.

Taking a moment to orient himself, he spotted Sylvia Virtos sitting all alone, Quinn Varanin being rather affectionate with a young man which he assumed to be her Master, and... oh, oh how beautiful. Eyes drawn to the words of power upon Darth Carnifex 's armour and that of his uncle, Darth Prazutis , his movement briefly ceased. It was gorgeous, truly, immaculate in its composition and mystical dictation...

Sparing one last glance at the Soulstones embedded into the Shadow Hand's armour - a glance which spoke of recognition and an almost feverish fascination - he headed towards the magenta-haired girl from their little group, for he was not one to get between someone and their desires...

... and by his estimate Hailyn topped the list of Quinn's desires, or was at the very least close to the top.

"I take it you are content with your ex-Jedi master?" Unlike some others, there was no real judgement in his voice, only a mild interest. What did it matter from whence a teacher had come, so long as they had secrets to share?

Sliding into an empty seat next to her, he turned his gaze to the stage...

... only to be pleasantly surprised by a bit of trickery performed by Jonu Zihtil to the detriment of the combatants. Yes, let them fight in darkness and despair, it would be a much better (if somewhat more difficult to follow) show.

 

[Quinn Varanin]

//: Parental Ties //:
//: Auditorium //: Dromond Kaas //:
//: Hailyn //: Inanna Harth //: Onrai //:

​

Only you. ​

Very simple, but beautiful words came from the perfect pair of lips on the Shi’ido’s face. Quinn loved hearing such a phrase, placing her above everyone in his eyes. It was music to the Echani’s ears, knowing that someone picked her before everyone else and her importance. She wanted to lean in and give the master another kiss to show her appreciation, but something told her to follow his gaze. Turning slightly, Quinn came face to face with another pair, a master and apprentice she assumed. Seeing that Inanna had performed, they must have been negotiating a partnership. ​

Quinn nodded and took Inanna’s hand after Vesta and shook it. She typically didn’t shake hands with strangers, but it was safe after seeing her master do so beforehand. Quinn offered the pair a smile that radiated her mother’s inherited grace as she turned to look towards Vanessa. The woman’s name resounded with familiarity with the young Varanin. She had heard and seen the name several times in Ashin’s teachings, but while the scientist had been vital in some of the former Empress’ plans, Quinn was taught to be wary. ​

“Ah, I’ve heard your name a few times from my late parents,” Quinn spoke softly as she nodded, showing that she knew far more than what was probably perceived. Vanessa wasn’t the first to claim this type of connection with the girl’s parents, and she knew it wouldn’t be the last, but she was polite. “It’s a pleasure to meet you.” She moved her body closer to Vesta, seeking out the protection offered when his question was asked. It didn’t need repeating, and she waited for the other master’s answer. ​

She was curious to know what Vanessa needed, connections to her parents always had something tied to them. Her hand returned the squeeze, finding comfort in it also some reassurance that her master would protect her.​