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Post by Deleted on Sept 4, 2020 10:39:43 GMT -8
Krokaa rolled his eyes at Duvrax's mention of action. "Yeah, I'm aware. It's not like the whole dorm can't hear you. I don't think when Master Phoenix spoke of us building our stamina and endurance that that was what he meant."
Jumping up to join the fellow Zabrak, he removed his lightsaber and brought to life the fiery orange blade. From the lava plains of Mustafar did he obtain the lava crystal that gave it life and only through the death of a Sher Kar was he able to truly claim it as his own. Just as the trials of the Blackguard before had Krokaa passed. And he had wielded that blade his strength ever since.
With a smirk, he took a single-bladed Niman stance. He preferred a balance to his fighting style versus his friend's preference for strength. It allowed him to slip around style a little more when needed and it allowed him a better view of the others and how they fought. It was why he also learned a bit of the other styles to cement that knowledge. It also aided him in formulating strategies. "Oh, keep dreaming. If you think I'll just hand you a win, you are a bit more of a fool than I thought.
Without another word, the two began their battle. Strength against balance, power versus strategy. That was the way the two fought. Sabers clashed back and forth, though it was never a one-sided battle. Both constantly worked to counter the other, tweaking their style to gain an advantage over the other.
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Post by Deleted on Sept 14, 2020 10:50:47 GMT -8
In truth, Vesperia had hoped to catch up to Duvrax before he made it too far into his day, but alas, that blasted non-Sith had tied her hands for an undesirable amount of time. Perhaps she could return the favor before he finally rid himself from the academy, but now was not the time to be blinded and overly focused on the trivial.
It was more than well known to the Masters where certain, hardworking students went after their classes. Some huddled themselves in the library, while others forced themselves through countless scenarios in the training area's simulations. When it came to Duvrax and Krokaa, though, they had a more realistic approach, at least in Vesperia's opinion--facing off in a one-on-one duel in the courtyards. One could learn more than a thousand hologram's worth of knowledge in a single experience, and simulations were always controlled environments. Predictable. Pitting against your fellow man was a far more ideal training scenario than anything else this academy had to offer.
Vesperia held herself back from the two while keeping an eye on them as they fought for several minutes. For a time, her attention was surprisingly drawn to the other Zabrak, who fought with a more calculated measure than the one she came here for. Duvrax was a powerhouse, but showing all his cards at once wasn't always the best course of action. Krokaa was tactical, a little too tactical, balanced, without enough fury. If only she could have taken them both on as her apprentices. Beat a little bit of one into the other. Ah, that would have been a delight. She licked her lips, that hungry smile reappearing on the woman's face. Alas, such was not an option, and she didn't have all day to lay low and watch her prey.
While the two clashed sabers, focusing on the other, Vesperia strutted her way over to them, directly into their battlefield. If she had given them time to stop, they no doubt would have stayed their blades, but that wouldn't have been any fun. Instead, the Sith Master walked right in between them as their weapons came down on the other -- or rather, now Vesperia. Channeling Tutaminis, though, the woman caught a blade in each hand as though they were nothing more than wooden sticks.
Vesperia cocked her head curiously, her eyes immediately finding Duvrax. Her expression was empty. Her eyes were calculating.
"Now, now, I think that's enough. How about you two call it a draw for the day and come chat with me."
Her silken voice encouraged the two to disengage with hypnotic tones. Granted, she figured the two would be far beyond falling for such tricks, but they would still do as she directed. She had a feeling that the non-Sith dog encouraged unyielding and misdirected respect for their betters, without question. Never challenging the status quo. Another thing she would need to fix in due time.
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Post by Deleted on Sept 15, 2020 9:42:58 GMT -8
From the arrival of her presence to the glimpses of her being a few feet away, Vesperia's appearance didn't go unnoticed to Duvrax. It made him curious as to why she suddenly came here after speaking with Gavin. Was she watching Krokaa and himself? It was possible since they were nearing the end of the training with their master. Soon, they'd be capable of being taken as apprentices.
Despite this, the battle didn't waver as the focus between the two Zabrak stayed in the spar. They were used to being watched. Whether it was another student trying to measure them up, another master looking in at their progress, or even the headmaster himself. In all that time, they had learned to keep their attention on each other, though aware in case someone decided to mix things up. Always be prepared for the unexpected.
His eyes focused hard on her though as she suddenly appeared between them, arms raising to intercept their blades. Some might have tried to stop or redirect the attack, but not Duvrax. Be it student or master, it was a foolish thing to step into a spar like this and expect others to stop for you. So his attack continued with the full force of his swing. Either she'd prove herself capable of stopping his blade or she'd be struck down. If it was the latter, then she wasn't worthy of the title of master if her death came at her own stupidity.
But like Gavin had done in their fateful spae years ago, Vesperia showed her prowess in Tutaminis by stopping the blades with her bare hands, funneling the energy of their blades into herself for additional power. For a moment, Duvrax kept his blade in place as if to challenge her and her interference, his focused hard upon her before finally taking a step back though his blade remained ignited for a moment. Gavin might have been different from the Sith that surrounded them, but the Zabrak was more than aware of the teachings and methods of the actual Sith masters.
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Post by Deleted on Sept 15, 2020 14:42:55 GMT -8
As it had been with Duvrax, so too did Krokaa notice Lady Vesperia's arrival. Yet, it did nothing to interfere with the spar that carried on between the two Zabrak. To him, it showed discipline to remain completely focused and unwavering in combat when other things transpired around them. In a real fight, they wouldn't have mere spectators, but other battles waging around them. In the midst of such chaos, one needed to be capable of staying focused on their opponent, though fully aware of their surroundings at the same time.
Be it a still growing perception or skill of speed of an absolute master, Vesperia was suddenly between them as Krokaa's and Duvrax's blade worked to clash once more. The timing in which she came between them was a terrible one as their reflexes couldn't respond fast enough to even engage Force Speed to accelerate their perception of time in which to dodge. He didn't even have the second to spare to turn off his saber, though that was the step he took.
Her skills were more than enough, however, as she gripped the burning energy of their blades as if it was nothing. The moment she did, Krokaa's burning blade disappeared as it finally responded. Even his movement had him stepping to his right to avoid Duvrax's blade should he not react in time. Taking a step or two back immediately, he was able to glance at his friend. Not only were Vesperia's eyes on Duvrax, but the larger Zabrak's eyes were dark and piercing, the grip on his saber suggesting he hadn't even tried to stop his attack. Then again, that was Duvrax. He was a being of power and wanting power. While Gavin had helped him temper his aggression in those early years, it never died off. The only difference now was that he wouldn't arrogantly challenge a master just because he thought himself superior. If someone seemed to issue a challenge like Vesperia's action could insinuate, then that was a different story. Worst of all, he knew his friend wouldn't back down until he was certain of his own defeat.
When Duvrax finally stepped back after the endless few seconds, Krokaa stepped up beside him, giving a small bow of his head. "Lady Vesperia. What do we owe the honor of your presence?" Even now, Krokaa saw that Duvrax kept his blade alive, and with it, Vesperia's grip kept it. Just a further sign, in Krokaa's mind, that his friend had grown up. He might not back down from a challenge, but he was no fool to let down his guard in an instant and find his arrogance echoing everywhere. The Sith were rather brutal after all. Even with this new method implemented by the Sith'ari, it was a matter of survival of the fittest where the strongest prospered and the weakest fell.
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Post by Deleted on Sept 20, 2020 12:02:33 GMT -8
It was all too easy to know the victor of Vesperia's attention. Duvrax still attempted to cut down Vesperia as though she was a new variable to their fight. However, Krokaa immediately disengaged and put his saber away to join his friend. That was an easy enough test, and Vesperia's eyes remained locked on her prize in the most literal sense. Her wicked smile seemed further fueled by Duvrax's brutality, and burning yellow-red eyes stared back at him, matching his intensity. Even though the larger Zabrak attempted to take a step back, he didn't act like his friend. He didn't put his saber away. Duvrax may have tried to pull his blade back with him, but Vesperia didn't allow it. Instead, she was able to further control her bare-handed grip now that her focus wasn't split. Her figures curled around the burning blade as it cried out with a violent hiss.
"As I said, I just want to have a little chat," she reiterated quietly yet with animated interest, as though speaking to a child.
Killing two birds with one stone, Vesperia answered Krokaa's question while attempting to quiet the beast within Durvrax, even if it had to be done through proving who was the alpha dog. In truth, she savored every second of it.
"So let's go ahead and put your weapon away now, mkay?"
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Post by Deleted on Sept 20, 2020 17:37:59 GMT -8
Duvrax said nothing, allowing his friend to be the voice of the situation. It was through this that he'd gauge the moment and see what possibly laid in store for them. He felt the tug on his saber as he let it rest at his side, the woman continuing to hold tightly to it. Perhaps she was just as cautious as he was? That or she wanted to make a point. If it was the former, he could understand. After all, it was wise to always watch one's back. However, had it been the latter, he most certainly wasn't amused.
When she spoke, reiterating again that she merely wished to speak to them, Duvrax raised his head, eyeing her for a moment more before finally deactivating his lightsaber, the typical sound of it retracting resonated as it pulled itself from her hand. Despite this, he kept the hilt within his hand. Taking a deep breath, he finally spoke. "What is it that you wish to speak to us about, Lady Vesperia?"
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Post by Deleted on Sept 26, 2020 9:53:44 GMT -8
When Duvrax finally deactivated his lightsaber, Vesperia's pleased smile spread across her lips, although there was something far more sinister shimmering in her eyes. She could see the defiance in his, and in truth, she had hoped he would have let that boil over the surface instead. She would have her fun with him, though, all in due time.
Lowering her hand that caught his blade, Vesperia placed both on her hips as she cocked one. After a pause, she finally betrayed her gaze from Duvrax to his friend. She wanted to speak with the one alone, but then again, more amusement may come from dragging them both along. Her eyebrow quirked at the thought, and an audible click of her tongue against the roof of her mouth came as Duvrax's initial answer.
"I was curious when I overheard your teacher give you that rousing ending lecture," Vesperia cooed with that same forced animation to her tone, very clearly a front to hide her true thoughts on the matter. "You both are graduating. Congratulations."
Congratulations--the word played on her tongue slowly and deliberately. Such praises spit on the brutality of the Sith, or rather what Vesperia viewed as proper Sith culture. Destroy the innocents, steal their children, and then force them into some semblance of a life they would have lived before the Sith, just with more weapons. Then thrust them into the world to continue the cycle of domination and destruction on other innocents. She believed it to be an odd balancing act that was sure to crumble eventually, but with little else to do at present, Vesperia just went along with it.
"I was curious about what you and your friends' plans were once you've completed your classes. Perhaps we could find a quiet little place to talk?"
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Post by Deleted on Sept 28, 2020 12:01:00 GMT -8
At no point did Duvrax's gaze turn from the woman. He might not have been the tactically minded as Krokaa was, but he was far from a mindless brute focused only on pure strength. He was smart and observant, something that was key in this interaction. Vesperia was well known within the academy and her reputation was echoed throughout the students that attended her classes.
As such, when she spoke of their graduation, it wasn't hard to guess that her tones were but a facade. It did irk him a bit, knowing that the woman thought so little of them and this movement from students in a class to possibly becoming apprentices to the masters. But he let that fire stay contained within his being. It wasn't due to submission but the desire to let others think as they did so that he could show them all up when the time came. As powerful as he was, he knew he still had much to learn in order to reach his goals. He had to be patient and believe his time would come. "Yes, my lady, it has been a long four years of training. As for what comes next, for me, it is obvious. Continue to keep pressing forward to obtain the power I seek, be it at the hand of a master or learning on my own. The learning and quest for greater power doesn't end here. Complacency isn't very becoming of a Sith."
Duvrax knew the path he wanted to walk and Gavin had helped him start along that path two years ago. From the powers to learn to the combat forms that would best fit him, Gavin had encouraged his path. While a master taking him as an apprentice would ensure that progress kept moving at a steady pace, if he was left as an acolyte, he'd continue to train and push, no matter how long it took. One day, he would gain the full depth of his potential.
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Post by Deleted on Sept 28, 2020 12:55:47 GMT -8
As it was with Duvrax, Krokaa and the others knew of Vesperia's reputation, yet, the Zabrak didn't think the same as his friend. Still, being the tactical one also brought about observances, to which the animated tones were able to be picked up. In the end, the way she spoke was typically only commonplace for those easily excitable and happy, something the Sith and especially Vesperia was not.
He gave a bow of his head, ready to oblige her request when Duvrax spoke. As always, he was direct and to the point. He wasn't one to beat around the bush and waste time. Giving a bit of a sigh, his gaze shifted to Duvrax for a moment before turning back to the woman. "Yes, that is the basis of what we intend to do, Lady Vesperia. But, if you are wishing to understand more of what we seek to do, we can tell you. Please, lead the way."
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Post by Deleted on Sept 29, 2020 14:37:18 GMT -8
A low laugh rumbled, contained with Vesperia's throat. Her wicked grin was enough to see that she was more or less pleased with the two's responses, though. Jerking her chin, she indicated a quieter area within the courtyards, where the three of them could sit down and have that chat she had requested. Saying nothing more until they got there, though, the woman shifted and strode her way there with confident steps.
"I'm surprised a Master hasn't approached you yet, Duvrax. You've been the Academy's golden boy since your first year. I'm sure going solo would be a great disappointment to the many eager men and women looking to get their hands on you."
Vesperia didn't bother to look over her shoulder as she addressed him. They were following her, and she ensured that her voice carried well enough that they -- and any passerby -- could hear her with crystal clarity. Her ominously calm, dulcet tones held a lingering double entendre that resonated another quiet, smug laugh. She enjoyed catching what little gossip she could that floated about the Academy. Duvrax had made a name for himself among the instructors in more ways than one, something she enjoyed pointing out maybe a bit too much.
Upon reaching the benches, she folded an arm behind her as she outstretched the other, indicating towards a place for the two Zabraks to sit. Although the flash of an ulterior expression flickered on her features while glancing at Duvrax, her attention soon fixed itself uncomfortably sharp upon his friend.
"In truth, I only desired to speak with Duvrax today, but color me curious about you as well, Krokaa. Please, do tell me more. I'm all ears."
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Post by Deleted on Sept 30, 2020 12:47:56 GMT -8
Duvrax followed as Vesperia led them along. He listened as she spoke, her tones changing from earlier. Though he was certain of what she wanted with them, it made him a bit wary if only for the depth of her motivation and intention behind it. As the last of her words directed at him came to an end, he thought for a moment on said reputation. It was true, in a few different ways. "So it has seemed to be. Even before I arrived I was told of my potential and of what I would achieve. Something that I allowed to go to my head, so much so that I challenged Master Phoenix to a duel only six months into our training as I thought he was holding someone of my capabilities back." Duvrax scoffed as he thought on the duel and the person he was before. "Considering his reputation, I would imagine that is one of the reasons many have stayed away. They see that through him, my potential was squandered and I wouldn't be able to live up to their expectations any longer. Either that or they are simply waiting until the proper moment to take me. Perhaps it comes down to what we've accomplished still doesn't make me or any of my peers worthy in their eyes."
He then gave a shrug. "Whatever the reason, it doesn't matter. If a master seeks me out, I won't deny the privilege. However, I won't sit around and wait like a schoolboy hoping to be picked by team captains. If masters want to think little of me because of their feelings of Master Phoenix or because they don't feel I'm worthy, I won't shed tears over it. I know my skills and what I want. I will overcome every obstacle and show the Blackguard just how capable I am and stand over those who thought themselves above me."
Reaching the spot where the benches were, his gaze settled upon Vesperia again as she confessed that she really only wanted to speak with him, yet would listen to Krokaa. It made him curious to how it would all play out. For now, he took a seat, curious as to how his friend would respond.
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Post by Deleted on Sept 30, 2020 13:16:12 GMT -8
Krokaa listened as his friend spoke. Having been there since the beginning, he could see how much his friend had changed. In the end, his drive and quest for greater power remained the same, he had come to rid himself of his ego that was crafted by his family and the Sith. In all honesty, that cockiness would have ruined his potential if not trained by a clearly powerful master as the cycle would have continued if he had gotten moved from Gavin's class. In the end, what had changed was what his potential truly meant. The old Duvrax thought his potential and current capabilities put him in a place above others and that he was already well above them. The Duvrax that emerged from his defeat from Gavin saw that potential could only be achieved through dedicated training, otherwise, those who seemed lesser would eventually catch up because they had truly honed their skills.
He then thought on his friend's claim of masters possibly not thinking much of them due to training with Gavin. "Perhaps that is the case, but remember that Kree already has a master waiting for her. Lady Luxeria chose to make her one. Then again, that could come down to compatibility and the two being very similar in their approach to power."
Reaching the benches, Krokaa took a seat when she said that she really only wished to speak to Duvrax. It seemed that his desire for power and his approach caught her attention more than his. Still, if she was willing to humor him, he supposed there was no point in keeping it hidden. "Of course. What is it that you really wish to know? If it is the paths we have chosen to take, well, unlike Duvrax who has dedicated himself to seeking immense power through destruction and force, I fall into a more balanced style. A jack of all trades, if you will. Alongside it, I have proven to have a more tactical mind than my peers. I've also been given charge of lessons in Master Phoenix's absence as well as leading a team during the Great Hunt as our instructor believes I have a greater knack for leadership."
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Darth Craxious
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Post by Darth Craxious on Oct 9, 2020 0:44:48 GMT -8
A man in uniform, Imperial grey, escorted by a number of troopers and walkers, stood on the entrance, amplifying his voice with a device.
"In the name of Vallius, Lord of Iridonia and Anobis, of the House of Savage and Novax"
He made a dramatic pause.
"All those resident in the Academy and living within its walls are now under His Lordship's command, as trueborn heir of the dominion. All shall swear oaths of loyalty to His Grace, or suffer the consequences reserved for the traitors and the meek"
TIE fighters flew overhead to emphatize the message.
"The Sith shall now be restored to greatness and back to the path laid by the great masters of yore. No longer will we suffer the inadequate and idle rule of a mad sovereign"
The man hardly gestures, he stood and talked, formulaic.
"Lord Vallius demands loyalty and good service and he shall provide. Members of the Academy! You are the Sith's future, join Lord Novax and pledge your swords to him!"
That said, he walked behind the barrier offered by the batallion of red-clad stormtroopers.
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Post by Deleted on Oct 10, 2020 11:07:15 GMT -8
"Seems kind of backward, don't you think? We raid and steal broken children to further draw them into the power of the dark side. Then some won't dare take a student when an instructor has failed the Sith and left our next generation broken. If the dark side has a chance to manifest itself in its truest potential, it should make no difference, should it not?"
As Vesperia spoke, she shifted her weight back onto one leg, cocking her hip in the process. Her hands settled upon her waist, however one finding the hilt of her whip.
"If you ask me, those masters aren't worthy of training students like you, if any at all. Hypocrisy is a terrible disease of the mind that should be dealt with... swiftly."
Vesperia scoffed a laugh, a malicious smile on her lips as though she replayed personally ridding the Academy of those very masters by her own hands. Although the master was glassy-eyed for that split second, reveling in those chaotic thoughts, she turned her attention to Krokaa.
"So Lady Luxie already has her pick of the bunch? I can't say I'm surprised. She's always been quite... quick and nimble on her feet."
Vesperia clicked her tongue on the roof of her mouth in a thoughtful "tsk" before shifting her full attention to Krokaa's tactics and expertise.
"A jack of all trades is a master of none," she started as though demeaning him at first. However, she followed up, leaning in closer to him and adding in dark delight, "but remember that oftentimes, they are better than a master of one."
Although this other Zabrak was catching her eye, Vesperia's mind had been made up before she even entered the courtyard. She was only humoring Duvrax's friend, but for what means remained a mystery. Nonetheless, her gaze snapped and locked onto black-tattooed Zabrak as a faint, wicked smile tugged at the corner of her lips.
"If you won't deny the privilege, Duvrax, then consider yourself my apprentice the day after your studies have concluded. Now, if you'll excuse me..."
The red stormtroopers and the gray-clad man in uniform had quickly caught Vesperia's attention. She only betrayed the faintest glance over in their direction along with an arched eyebrow of skeptical curiosity.
"...it seems that family drama is afoot. Take care, boys. I'll be seeing more of you later."
Vesperia offered a wink back in the general direction of the two Zabraks before sauntering off. With mischief intent glimmering in her eyes, the woman carried herself with powerful, decisive steps back into the Academy, purposefully getting as close to this little group as possible without drawing too much attention.
The tides of the Sith were shifting yet again. While unsurprising, it would be an intoxicating experience for Vesperia to witness.
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Post by Deleted on Oct 12, 2020 12:32:39 GMT -8
Duvrax listened as Vesperia spoke of the other masters, finding agreement in them. If that was what the Sith typically did, then why would they be left untouched simply because of the master they started training under. It was already clear from the woman's words that she cared little for Gavin, just as the rest did. However, unlike them, she wouldn't deny taking one as an apprentice if only to make a stand against the way they were trained.
He then gave a faint nod as she acknowledged Krokaa's desired path. It was true that in his ability to learn the abilities and styles of the others he would never master them, but he was much more versatile they were. He could work with any of them with ease and could anticipate different scenarios based on what he knew, which made him more of a leader than the rest.
It was then that the point of this meeting came to a head. She was seeking an apprentice and he was the chosen candidate. Just like Kosrezic, he would have a master the moment everything finished with his studies with Gavin. He did have some qualms with her regarding Gavin, but he wouldn't let it be a reason he denied a master. If anything, it would be a fun and pleasant challenge to show just what he became from that training. A clash of wills for sure, but that would be the conflict that would only help him grow.
He had no chance to acknowledge her, however, as she dismissed herself. A new scene was beginning to brew, one, as Vesperia put it, regarding family drama. By what they heard, the Sith'ari's son was claiming power and working to dethrone his father. The winds of change were beginning to take shape in interesting ways within the Blackguard. The question was how it would affect them. Whatever the case, Duvrax didn't much care. He had the path set before him he sought to achieve and a new master to help get him there. That was all he needed. Nothing else mattered.
Looking at Krokaa, who had remained silent as Vesperia spoke and walked away, Duvrax nodded as the two headed inside.
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