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Post by Shaman Anaxilea on Mar 3, 2013 8:53:43 GMT -8
The Crystal Caves were located deep within the side of a mountain cliff on the frozen world of Ilum. The Jedi Order, which discovered the caves circa 22,800 BBY, was given sole access to the world's wealth of precious crystals which were vital to the construction of the Order's lightsabers. Erecting a Temple at the mouth of the cave, Ilum's caves became a traditional journey point for many Jedi over the centuries. Located within the side of a sheer cliff, the entrance to the Crystal Caves was located within the Jedi Temple complex erected by the Jedi Order. The interior of the caves were made of natural shiny black stone; a rock that swallowed light instead of reflecting it. As time progressed and the Jedi Order grew, the many Jedi that visited the cave recorded their histories on its walls. In the black stone grew the crystals the Jedi used in their sacred weapons, the lightsaber. Many pathways wound their way through the caves, creating a labyrinth of darkness and mystery. Weaving between the pillars of stone, a bridge was erected that led into a large open area and a dais upon which Jedi completed their lightsabers. The bridge led along the cave's great chasms and to its main door, set in the frozen facade of the cliff wall.
It had a secret entrance that was guarded by a nest of gorgodons. |
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Aerandir Calmcacil
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Post by Aerandir Calmcacil on May 28, 2013 1:56:24 GMT -8
*The Quiet Perseverance descended toward the Crystal Caves, toward the same landing spot he'd used both of his previous visits here. Aerandir set the ship down, then deactivated its engines and went through a post-flight checkup.
He was dressed in his adventure robes, which in his mind were all-purpose at this point; ceremonies, missions, diplomacy, what have you, these were the robes he wore. Normally he'd prefer wearing casual clothing, but the robes were preferable in the cold. Hooked on his belt were not one, but two lightsabers, the green lightsaber containing the mephite crystal he'd obtained from Ilum all those years before, and the black blade with the stygium crystal within. Why he brought both, he wasn't entirely sure, but he'd felt the calling to.*
Bundle up, Jake; it's gonna be cold.
*He smiled at his son, reaching over to pat him on the shoulder. He'd always looked forward to some sort of "father and son" trip someday, he just didn't know it'd be so soon. Jake was quite the sudden addition to his life, but a very welcome one. He was happy to be here with him, right now, and he had faith he'd excel in whatever the Force decided to put him through.
And yet, Aerandir felt a calling himself, at that moment. Again... ?*
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Post by Jake Palmer Calmcacil on May 28, 2013 13:52:07 GMT -8
*Jake knew all about Ilum. It was a cold world, but it was the home of the crystals Jedi needed to craft lightsabers. There was a small Temple at the mouth of the cave for receiving visitors, then one would travel into the cave, where they would seek out their own special crystal that resonated them. But before they could get the crystal, they would first have to pass a trial that the Force itself provided.
Jake had to admit he was a little nervous at that thought, but he was pretty sure he'd do fine. After all, he'd been invited to advanced lessons on Yavin in the past, and did well there. And according to his father, Morgan and Michelle were four and six respectively when they came here and had to pass a test, and both did so well. Jake was twice the age now Morgan was then, so hopefully, that meant whatever test he was up against, he'd have an easier time against it.
... unless these tests were tailored to one's age and skill level...
Well, that was okay. He just had to have confidence. Trust in himself, and the Force. And as much as he loved his sister dearly, he didn't want to lose to his trial when Morgan bested hers at half his age. So now he was driven by a goal, one that would hopefully fuel his drive, not for selfish reasons, but to prove himself dedicated and ready.
The ship landed, and his father told him to bundle up. Jake actually had... in the earlier portion of the trip. But it had been too hot then, so he'd removed it until they'd landed. Now that they were here, he unbuckled his seat and hopped out of it, going to his coat, which was stored away in a small closet, and pulling it over his Youngling robes, which he'd chosen to wear for the occasion. When he was "bundled up," he turned and stood at the ready, smiling at his father.*
Ready to go, Dad.
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Aerandir Calmcacil
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Post by Aerandir Calmcacil on May 28, 2013 15:21:31 GMT -8
*Aerandir unbuckled himself as Jake did, standing and waiting for the boy to prepare himself. He smiled at the boy as he announced himself ready, then headed through the ship, towards the ramp.*
I won't be able to help you with your trial, but you knew that. This will be something you'll have to face on your own. Oh, and if you run into any giant humanoid roaches...
*He stopped at the ramp's controls, allowing himself a moment to reminisce about those strange apparitions he'd seen both visits here. After a chuckle, he shook his head, activating the ramp's controls and glancing over his shoulder at Jake.*
Well, don't worry, those are normal.
*That would likely confuse the boy, but he would see soon enough. The temperature inside the ship almost immediately dropped, stinging Aerandir's exposed cheeks. Fortunately, it wasn't a long walk to the Temple entrance, then into the caves themselves. He allowed Jake to go first, then descended the ramp behind him, sealing it as soon as possible.
There was a mild snowstorm whipping about. Predictable. From a pocket in his robes, Aerandir extracted a pair of eye-shields. Yes, the very same ones he used to wear everywhere. Those days were long past—and with good reason—but they would serve a purpose now, as he placed them before his eyes, improving his vision if only slightly. He then reached down and took Jake's hand, so the boy would better be able to see his way, and then they made the cold trek to the Temple entrance.
Once they reached the steps of the Temple, and once they'd entered inside, Aerandir removed the eye-shields, putting them away as he looked about the Temple. Things hadn't changed much. He'd met with a receptionist of sorts, identifying himself and Jake, revealing he'd been here twice before, and now was bringing his son along to seek his own crystal. Then they were granted access into the caves, and once more Aerandir walked through the opening hall, stepping into the large entrance chamber.*
This was where we stood when we were shown to our separate trials.
*As he explained this to Jake, a sudden movement of shadow, smoke-like, wisped before him, before congealing into a solid state. It was roach-like in appearance, though stood on longer hind legs like a humanoid. Aerandir had to chuckle as he looked upon it, giving it a subtle nod.*
Looks like they've come to show us around again.
*The roach seemed to return his nod, but otherwise didn't move. Aerandir didn't quite understand these things. And why roaches? Not that he was disturbed by them, it was just... an interesting choice. Perhaps their mere appearance was another layer of a test? To possibly induce panic, or at least attempt to take them off-guard? But now he knew they were benevolent, he rather welcomed their presence. They'd only ever been helpful, pointing the way to their trials and making sure they didn't leave until they were complete. And they'd even showed him the right path to take when he came here last time to retrieve Morgan...*
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Post by Jake Palmer Calmcacil on May 28, 2013 15:44:47 GMT -8
*Jake listened and nodded as his father reviewed how trials work, that he would have to face it on his own and his father couldn't help him. He knew that, and he was prepared. He wasn't about to let anything get in his way, and he'd face the trial head on, and conquer it, and—
"Giant humanoid roaches"? Jake... was both confused and a bit worried about that, even though his father assured him they were "normal." Just what happened in these caves anyway? Jake had no time to ask, as suddenly the ramp was lowered and he was met with a rush of cold air. He descended the ramp, pulling up his hood before his father took his hand, helping keep him on track. And it was still cold out here, even with his robes and coat.
Fortunately, before long, they were out of the snow and inside the Temple. It wasn't too much warmer here, but it was better than outside. Jake stood shivering as his father took care of identifications, and soon they were on their way into the caves themselves. He hadn't gotten much of a look at the Temple interior; he was still trying to shake the cold. Once he had, however, he was now staring up at the high, glittering walls of the Crystal Caves.
And it was beautiful.
He stared up in awe as his father explained that this entrance chamber was where he, Michelle, and Morgan began their journey toward their crystals. Rather, "were shown," he'd said. Jake simply figured he'd meant the Force had guided them; now that they were here, he could indeed feel a bit of a pull down a side chamber. Jake turned to stare down the corridor curiously, but his father's words about something coming to show them around again, made him look toward his father, then in the direction he was staring. Then he frowned.*
Who, Dad?
*Indeed, there was nothing there that Jake could see. His father had mentioned "roaches," but Jake couldn't see anything like that. He turned around, looking about, as though seeing if he could spot others, but... there was nothing. No roaches, no sign of anything present other than the two of them. And the Force. And that strange beacon...*
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Aerandir Calmcacil
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Post by Aerandir Calmcacil on May 28, 2013 16:10:08 GMT -8
*Jake... couldn't see it? That... was odd. And in a way, sad. The apparitions were very much a part of the history of his family and this place, as far as he was concerned, even Morgan liked them, but his son, Morgan's twin brother, couldn't see them. Well, perhaps there was a reason for that. Or maybe they were waiting to reveal themselves to him. The roach seemed to nod again after this thought, and, after a moment, Aerandir returned its nod. It vanished as he turned back towards his son.*
Well, never mind then. Surely you should feel a sort of calling, at least. That is your crystal. Follow it. Your test shall reveal itself from there.
*There was a calling for Aerandir as well. He could sense it. He'd merely had his focus upon other things. But why would he have another crystal waiting for him? Weren't the two in the weapons at his belt enough? This was strange, but Aerandir was not about to question the will of the Force. He nodded at Jake.*
Go on ahead, Jake. I'm going to go seek something out myself. We'll meet up again right here when we're done, alright?
*Aerandir smiled at his son, then, after waiting for his confirmation, departed further down the chamber. Up the winding passageway. Following the same path he had when he'd come for his own mephite crystal. A familiar journey, to be sure. But what lay in wait above? What was the Force to test him with this time? He would see soon enough...*
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Post by Jake Palmer Calmcacil on May 28, 2013 20:45:28 GMT -8
*When Jake looked back at his father, he was nodding at something invisible. Was he seeing something Jake wasn't? He tilted his head to the side just as his father was turning back to him, telling him not to mind it. Instead, he asked if Jake was feeling any sort of "calling," then told him that he should follow it, as that belonged to his crystal.
Jake watched as his father was silent for a moment, then nodded at him, telling Jake to go ahead, that he had something else to look into, then they could meet up here when they were finished. Jake nodded back to him, then, as his father moved forward into the crystal caves, Jake turned down the side cavern where the pull was emanating from. He took a quick breath, released it, then headed down the passageway.
The walls glittered, but otherwise, there wasn't much to look at. Jake reached out to run his hand along the wall, fingers brushing over an abrasion or protruding crystal occasionally. He lowered his hand as he stepped into a large open chamber. Something in the ground caught his attention, so, frowning, he approached the center of the chamber to see what it was.
There was a rough circle cut in the floor, roughly in the center of the chamber. In the center of the circle, the floor looked chipped, with bits of rocks left behind in the hole. Curious, but irrelevant. Jake stood, looking around the chamber. What now? The calling came from this chamber, that much was certain— The hole. Jake turned back toward it. The crystal was in the hole? Was it already dislodged, or would he have to dig it out himself?
But... where was his trial?*
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Aerandir Calmcacil
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Post by Aerandir Calmcacil on Jun 6, 2013 14:33:12 GMT -8
*Aerandir ascended the spiraling path of the central chamber, feeling called ever upward. The pull suddenly diverted him into a side passage, one he turned into immediately. And instantly recognized. This was the room where he'd fought two apparitions and claimed the green crystal that now resided in the metal cylinder at his belt. The first apparition was of Darth Ascin, while he was still dead...
... and the other was of an adult Morgan that had fallen to the dark side.
The latter had been the difficult one to overcome; the first one was merely a warm-up and a teaser to lower his guard. He'd overcome the second apparition after seeing through the falsity, then took it down. Whatever the Force had to show him this time would have to be quite the shocker. He, in fact, dreaded to think of what it might be. But he couldn't back down. What kind of Jedi would he be if he just turned and walked away from what the Force wanted to show him?*
Alright...
*He stood in the center of the chamber, looking around for the first sign of a challenge, an apparition, a trial.*
... show me what you want me to see.
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Post by Jake Palmer Calmcacil on Jul 31, 2013 23:42:04 GMT -8
*A haunting, echoing laugh bounced off the walls of the chamber. Jake gasped, jumping slightly and turned as he looked around at the cavern walls. It was a girl's giggle, playful, teasing. He immediately recognized it.
It was Morgan.
That didn't make sense. Morgan wasn't here. She wasn't in the ship, he would have felt her. Even if she had, she couldn't have sneaked in behind them. Even if she had... That voice sounded far too creepy and ghostlike. Jake looked out into the hallway just in case, but it was empty. He frowned, tilting his head to the side.*
I'm right here, Jake.
*Jake actually yelped as he spun around, and there she was. Only... it wasn't. Everything was all wrong, her appearance was... He wasn't sure how to explain it. Just, the colors were wrong. Her hair was white, her bare skin was dark, and the whites of her eyes were black, surrounding glowing irises. The scars on her chest and shoulder were a blazing white. Her entire body was glowing, like a spirit.
Whatever this was, it wasn't Morgan.*
Morgan?!
*The not-Morgan tittered and grinned as she tilted her head to one side and approached Jake with hands folded behind her back.*
Do you know where we are, Jake?
*Jake stammered for a moment then looked around the room. His gaze returned to the thing that looked like his sister and he shrugged.*
Ilum?
*She laughed again, a little, slow "tee hee hee," and looked around the chamber without moving her head. Then her eyes returned to Jake.*
Brother, this is the room I was in when I was here. This is where I got my crystal.
*Jake's eyes widened and he looked around. Really? This was where Morgan got her crystal? Wait. The hole in the ground. Jake's eyes immediately fell upon the small hole just behind the apparition that wasn't his sister. Why hadn't he seen it earlier? The hole in the floor, surrounded by a rough circular cut around it...*
Hehe, yep. I got it right there.
*Without thinking, Jake looked at the figure with a mild glare.*
No you didn't. My sister did.
*The figure stuck out her lower lip, pretending to look wounded.*
Aw, but Jakey, I am your sister!
*Jake honestly wasn't too sure how to react. Was this just a projection of the Force meant to mess with his thoughts? Or was it some actual being, manifesting as his sister as its job, but still had feelings? Maybe Jake could be a little easier on it, but regardless, he knew it wasn't his sister.*
No, you're not. You're just a vision. You're just here to give me a trial, that's all.
*He said it as though he were reassuring someone of something. The apparition tilted her head to the other side, grinning mischievously.*
What's wrong, Jake? Afraid that I'm better than you at everything, and that I'm gonna beat you?
*What? That wasn't it at all! Jake frowned, a bit annoyed.*
No! You're not always better! I still win in races and stuff sometimes!
*... No. He'd messed up, he treated the thing like it really was Morgan. He could tell the apparition was pleased by the subtle change in the glimmer of her haunted eyes and the grin on her expression.*
Tee hee hee... Well, if you're so sure, why don't we race... right now?
*Suddenly, the area changed. The chamber around them faded to black and disappeared, but suddenly new obstacles materialized, glowing blue platforms of various shapes and size. It didn't take long for Jake to see what they were building: An obstacle course. He hadn't been expecting this: Michelle, Morgan, and his father all had to fight someone for their test, so he assumed he would do the same. Clearly, the Force had other ideas. But if this was what he had to do...*
Fine. You're on.
*His expression, he noticed after he'd spoken, was a confident, competitive smile, one he usually had when he and Morgan did challenge each other to races. Quickly he erased it, again ashamed that he'd treated the thing like it was his sister. The apparition only giggled again.*
Okay then, let's go!
*She took off running toward the first leg of the race, a ramp up to a higher level of obstacles. Jake gasped and immediately began running to catch up to her.*
Hey, no f—
*He caught his tongue just in time, as that was something he'd say to Morgan, not some ghostly impersonator. He had one goal now: To win this race, to best this ghost and win his crystal. He to be honest actually preferred this as a trial, rather than a fight; he was confident in his skills, yes, but this was different, this was unexpected, and he liked unexpected challenges. That, and apparition or not, he wasn't sure he could bear the idea of killing something that resembled his beloved sister...*
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Aerandir Calmcacil
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Post by Aerandir Calmcacil on Aug 1, 2013 23:43:15 GMT -8
Who else but me?
*The voice was heard before the figure appeared, but Aerandir knew that voice. The figure materialized, and he heavily expected it to appear like the other apparitions he'd seen before: Ethereal, inverted, with glowing white hair and cold, dark skin. But instead, the figure he saw looked merely like a spirit version of the man he knew, with all his colors intact. Aerandir only smirked.*
Looks like my test this time is a test of patience.
*The figure glowered at Aerandir, slowly shaking his head at him.*
You are so indecisive. You obtain a mephite crystal for your lightsaber, then you abandon it in favor of one wielding a stygium crystal. Now you have returned for another crystal? This would never do...
*Aerandir scoffed.*
Always so strict with you, Jacob. For the record, I came here with my son so he could find his own crystal. If you want to hold someone accountable for my seeking out another crystal, hold the Force accountable. Good luck with that one.
*Jacob Forman. Former Councilor of the Temple on Aerandir's homeworld. Always had a nose for rules, too much so in fact. So much so, that he didn't ever seem to care about human feelings whatsoever, only "upholding standards." It was what had got him demoted from his position of Senior Councilor, the second-highest rank of the Temple's Council, by Aerandir personally. He hadn't completely removed Jacob from the Council, but sometimes he wished he had.*
Perhaps the Force's will is to prove to the galaxy just how indecisive one of its most-esteemed Jedi is.
*Aerandir's eyes narrowed.*
Indecisive? Show me the rule that says I can't own more than two lightsabers, Jacob. Show me where I should ignore the Force's calling. What the hell, I knew this would be a test of patience, but not because your words were completely idiotic. ... well, I knew they would be, just not in this way.
*Did Jacob just growl at him? ... come to think of it, Aerandir was suddenly aware just how common that name was around him. Jacob Forman, Ambar temporarily went by the name "Jacob," and now Aerandir's own son's name was Jake. Strange, and unfortunate for Jake that he shared a name with that man, but right now, it was unimportant.*
You resort to insults. This is how the leader of my Temple acts? This is the Jedi people look up to?
*Aerandir rolled his eyes.*
Spare me, you're an apparition. Nothing more.
*The figure stiffened. The muscles of his face twitched. Then he bared his teeth, rushing at Aerandir as a lightsaber appeared in his hand and activated. Aerandir reacted instinctively, his own blade coming to life as he stepped to the side, literally disarming the apparition. It yelped, falling to the ground, looking up at Aerandir in disbelief as Aerandir held his green weapon pointed directly at the apparition.*
And you always sucked at fighting.
*The figure dissolved into smoke. Aerandir held his position for a moment longer, waiting should something else happen, then he lowered his arm and looked around the room. After a moment, he shrugged.*
Anything else?
*He turned around the room, waiting for another vision, another sign, something.*
C'mon, last time there was an easy first test before another obstacle was thrown at me. You're really telling me that this time all I get is something that pathetic? I'm not trying to brag here, I'm just genuinely asking. There's usually more layers to tests from the Fo—
*Wait. That was it. Aerandir silenced himself; he wasn't speaking arrogantly at all, it was more in line with his typical style of humor. But that was gone now, as he began to analyze the situation he'd just been through. Jacob Forman. Terrible attempts at rationalizing. Rash reaction in attempts to attack him. There... wasn't much there to analyze. Quite honestly that was just Jacob's typical behavior. Maybe not the attacking part... Was Jacob going to attack someone? Was Aerandir needed back at home?
Just as that thought crossed his mind, the crystal called out to him again. He stepped toward the wall, and he could still see the cut he'd made to retrieve the crystal residing within his lightsaber. Apparently, his new crystal was right beside it. He set his hand upon the wall, determining the depth of the crystal. Removing his hand, he spotted the tip of the crystal protruding from the wall. Excellent. This extraction would be simple, then. He raised his still-lit lightsaber, then began to get to work.*
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Post by Jake Palmer Calmcacil on Aug 2, 2013 22:04:30 GMT -8
*Jake almost didn't understand how this strange obstacle course would work, but it was completely solid beneath his feet. It was a strange feeling, how the Force could create illusions that were completely solid. He just had to put his faith in the Force, hope it didn't try to trick him with false platforms, and most of all, beat this apparition in this race.
It wasn't like courses he was used to. This one was full of many different obstacles, hurdles, and jumps he had to make. These worried him the most; he was gradually gaining altitude in this course and a misstep could kill him. So he had to only focus forward, focus on making it. Focus on besting the apparition...
Her headstart, combined with Jake's brief hesitancy at the start, was a handicap for Jake, since she managed to stay a good distance ahead of him. He had to push himself as he leapt over hurdles, hopped over gaps, and swung across bars. He had the distinct feeling this trial had some deeper meaning to it, but he could think on that after he was done. All he knew was, he was steadily gaining ground, and he needed that. He was closing in, soon he could overtake her. And it looked like the end of this course was in sight, but he wasn't too certain and didn't want to risk losing ground just to be sure.
Just as he was right behind her, she suddenly slipped on a sloped platform and couldn't regain her balance, falling with a shriek. In a split-second decision between stopping to save her and continuing on to the goal, Jake landed safely on the platform and threw himself to the ground, reaching out with his right arm and grabbing the apparition's. Her shrieks stopped with a gasp, and she looked up into the face of her savior. The sweaty, strained face of Jake.*
Hold on, I got you!
*Jake grunted and did his best to pull her up with one arm. Strangely, she was lighter than the real Morgan, though the fact that she was an apparition of the Force may have had something to do with that. When she could reach the edge, she grabbed it with her other arm and pulled herself up onto it, rolling over Jake onto her back and panting softly.*
You saved me... why? I'm not real...
*Jake, also laying on his back, panted as well. Yes, she wasn't the real Morgan. He could have let her fall and kept going to win. But then that wouldn't have felt right. He would have felt guilty; yes, she wasn't real and only a manifestation of the Force, and wouldn't have actually been harmed. But he wouldn't be setting a good precedent for himself if he just let someone else fall. He turned his head to look at her.*
Because it wouldn't be right if I let you fell. You'd get hurt. And it wouldn't be fair either, I'd only win because you fell. But I still didn't want you to fall. I'd be a bad person if I did. And I don't want you to get hurt.
*The Morgan apparition seemed genuinely touched by this notion, a sweet smile coming to her face. She sat up, and after a moment, so did Jake. Then she hugged him. Jake jumped, kind of surprised, then hesitantly hugged her back as she spoke.*
You're a good brother. Well, not my brother, but you would be if you were. But that's what you were supposed to do, silly! Not win, but make the right decision.
*Jake's eyes widened. That was his test? Wow, so he was right when he knew there was more to it than just racing! He grinned, pleased he'd passed it, when he suddenly took note of the fact that they were no longer sitting on a platform in a black, empty room: They were once again on the floor of the glittering chamber.*
Whoa...
*The Morgan apparition only giggled.*
Yep. The Force is cool, isn't it?
*Jake was briefly surprised that she'd guessed his thoughts, but then she remembered that she was part of the Force, after all. He grinned, then got to his feet.*
So is this it? Do I get to pick up my crystal?
*The figure stood also and nodded.*
Yep! I can't help you anymore though, so you'll have to get it yourself. You did a good job though, Jake! I'm proud of you.
*She then kissed him on the cheek, which surprised him. He jumped slightly and blushed as she smiled at him, then vanished. He looked around the room suddenly, as though expecting someone else to appear, then he looked down into the hole in the middle of the room.
The real Morgan had been here as well. She'd chipped at the floor, using an ability called "shatterpoint," and extracted her crystal from the floor. This was an ability Jake had yet to practice, and wasn't even sure if he was capable of the ability. Still, his crystal was in this little hole in the ground. He knelt down, peering into the hole— There it was! Jake instinctively reached for the glittering yellow gem, but it was stuck in the ground. He frowned, then attempted to pry it free with both hands, but it wasn't budging. But he had an idea...
A few moments later, and he held his crystal in his hands, his freshly-extinguished lightsaber laying on the ground beside him. He brushed off the dirt and broke off the chips of rock connected to the gem, then held it up before his eyes, admiring it with a satisfied smile. He'd done it. He'd completed his challenge and gotten his crystal, and now he'd be able to build his own lightsaber at last. He couldn't wait to show his dad. He pocketed the crystal, securing it in an inside pocket in his coat, then got up and ran out of the chamber, heading back to the main chamber to meet up with his father.*
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Aerandir Calmcacil
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Post by Aerandir Calmcacil on Aug 5, 2013 0:47:46 GMT -8
*Aerandir descended the winding passageway back to the main floor of the Crystal Caves, examining the glimmering blue gem in his upraised palm. His original lightsaber had been blue, and this crystal was blue. This would mark his fifth crystal, but likely he would build a new blade to go with it, making it his fourth weapon; he'd reused his second weapon when he retrieved his first mephite crystal.
So, he'd be returning to where he started, with the color blue... Honestly, Aerandir felt it was better that way. Blue felt much more calm and serene, which was how Aerandir felt his life and current role was. He was no longer the battler he used to be, which a green blade, with its fierce beam, complemented greatly. Perhaps that's why he was drawn here after all; a new crystal to reflect his new state of mind.
As he reached the main floor and stood in the chamber, it didn't take long before he heard the running footsteps. Looking down the side passage Jake had disappeared earlier, he saw the boy appear and skid to a stop. He was empty-handed. Aerandir tilted his head to the side, looking at him inquisitively.*
Everything go fine, Jake?
*Surely the boy hadn't failed. There was a hint of enthusiasm and triumph in his expression in posture, so he probably just pocketed the crystal for protection. Still, he wanted to hear everything from Jake's own mouth, rather than guess at it.*
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Post by Jake Palmer Calmcacil on Aug 5, 2013 0:58:00 GMT -8
*Jake did indeed skid to a halt as he saw his dad already there, waiting for him. Wow, and Jake thought his trial had passed rather quickly. He glanced up at his dad's hand, noting the crystal inside, then looked back up at his dad's eyes when he asked if everything went fine. Jake frowned briefly, then wondered if it was because his crystal wasn't visible.*
Oh yeah, totally!
*He reached inside his coat and removed the crystal from a pocket, then held it up in both palms, grinning.*
I got it!
*He lowered it, pocketing it again to make sure it stayed safe, then let his hands fall to his sides, swinging them slightly as he spoke.*
When I got in there, I heard laughing, and it sounded like Morgan. When I saw her, she... well, it wasn't her, but a different version of her, like a ghost, but her colors were all weird. Her skin was almost black, and her hair was white, and she was glowing, and so were her scars, and—
*... her scars. They weren't covered. Because she... Wow. He hadn't even noticed that...*
... she was naked.
*After a moment, he shrugged and looked back up at his dad.*
Ah well, not much different than she normally is. Anyway, we didn't fight, we just raced, and everything went black and there was an obstacle course made of light. She had a headstart, but I caught up. Then she fell, and I stopped to save her. She then told me that was part of the test, and I passed, and then I got to get my crystal.
*He smiled proudly for a moment, then looked curious.*
What was your trial like, Dad?
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Aerandir Calmcacil
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Post by Aerandir Calmcacil on Aug 5, 2013 1:30:33 GMT -8
*Jake responded affirmatively and produced a yellow crystal from his pocket. So he was just keeping it safe. Aerandir smiled, raising his head as he replaced the crystal then explained his trial: A race with an ethereal replica of his sister. Clever. If Aerandir had to guess, it was because of some attempt at making Jake feel insecure next to his sister, who was recently quite beginning to excel in her physical abilities, though Jake still had a slight edge.
Aerandir nodded when Jake noted the differences in color of the apparition; he expected that. Jake then made a sudden observation he apparently hadn't before: That the Morgan apparition was apparently without clothing. But his next comment, that it wasn't "much different than she normally is," Aerandir failed to stifle the laugh that came in response. But when Jake revealed that he'd saved the apparition, he nodded in approval, glad the boy had made that decision.
When Jake asked how his own trial went, Aerandir only smirked.*
Just had to deal with some nut who didn't know what he was talking about. Tried to talk me down with faulty logic, but I quickly silenced him. No big deal.
*Jacob Forman wasn't important enough in Aerandir's mind to tell his son about. He especially didn't want his son to know that he shared a name with that soulless individual. He could possibly talk to him about it later and talk down Jacob Forman's lack of a soul, and hopefully that wouldn't give Jake misgivings about his own name. Aerandir then shrugged, then wrapped an arm around his son's shoulders.*
Come on. Let's get out of the cold and head back home; we've accomplished what we set out to do.
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Post by Jake Palmer Calmcacil on Aug 5, 2013 13:09:50 GMT -8
*Jake continued to look curious as his dad explained that he only had to silence the faulty logic of "some nut who didn't know what he was talking about." Jake hoped he would elaborate, but his dad only passed it off as "no big deal," then put his arm around Jake's shoulders and ushered him toward the caves' exit, saying they should get out of the cold and that they'd accomplished what they set out to do. Jake smiled, agreeing, but as they walked through the temple back toward their ship, he still couldn't help but wonder who or what his dad was talking about, or why it almost seemed like there was something he was keeping from Jake. Maybe he could ask later, as they tread the rough snows back to their ship. Once they were finally settled inside, he removed his extra layers of clothing, glad to be out of the cold, and buckled himself in, relaxing in his seat. Then he quickly sat up, reaching down for his coat and removing the crystal from it. He stared at it in in his hands for a moment, then clutched his small fingers around it, tilting his head back and closing his eyes as the ship lifted off from the surface.*
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gondor
Member
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Affiliation: none freelance
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Post by gondor on Sept 18, 2016 23:28:27 GMT -8
A nu-attack class ship makes it way to the temple landing pad it looks old and like it has been though many battles out steps a man dressed in a robe with a blaster on his hip. He looks around and makes his way to the temple door . As he stands there he takes in all the sight the temple has to offer and smiles then finds a quite spot to meditate as he waits for a member of the temple to grant him access to the caves
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Aerandir Calmcacil
The Jedi Order
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Post by Aerandir Calmcacil on Sept 24, 2016 21:29:44 GMT -8
*Dantooine had been quite the harrowing experience, but also in a weird way nostalgic: Aerandir had not taken the battlefield against an Imperial force in some time. It should have stayed that way... But those memories and experiences had all come back to him, as he defended his home world and others from threat of Imperial takeover. This was no different. They may have had different personnel, a new leader, and an evil force led by an absolute fool of a traitor, but they were still the same delusional rodders.
However, there had been another turn of events: During an attempt to secure the Crystal Caves, Aerandir had found himself drawn to a particular greenish crystal. He had not been in a position that afforded time to ponder further, so he had simply taken the crystal and continued onward with his protection duties.
After the battle, after he'd had time to assess the situation and collect his thoughts, he found the crystal again. Of course, he had to chuckle at himself; he'd already felt drawn to three different crystals before, so why yet another one? Nevertheless, he examined the crystal and researched its properties, discovering the crystal to be a Dantari crystal. The crystals were normally found in kinrath eggs, or more rarely scattered in the caves. The crystals seemed to possess an interesting quality: The ability to reflect the alignment of the wielder. Very curious... But what use did he have for it? On his hip rested the mist blue blade whose crystal was recovered from Ilum. In his care were the green crystal, also recovered from a previous journey to Ilum, and the black stygium crystal, whose discovery was almost happenstance. Aerandir had thought he'd finally found his true crystal.
And yet, the Dantari crystal still resonated within him.
Making up his mind, Aerandir took the crystal and departed on a pilgrimage to Ilum yet again. In that hallowed place, he knew he would receive the answers he sought. However, there were talks of First Order movement in the Unknown Regions. In favor of caution, the ship he flew was an unmarked Lambda-class shuttle held in the Jedi Base's hangar, and his garb was rather nondescript cold-climate gear, with a carrying case slung around his shoulder. Within that bag were not one, but three lightsabers, each containing one of the three crystals he had individually felt compelled to claim.
He was careful in his exit from hyperspace, careful in his approach to the planet. To his surprise and relief, the sector didn't seem incredibly heavily-monitored by First Order personnel. This resulted in, combined with planned maneuvers, an unmolested approach to the planet.
As usual, he was able to set down the ship in a landing spot not far from the caves. He secured the ship and his belongings before making the trek across the cold, shielded from its bite by his clothing; it certainly was far more effective than his robes. He entered the caves, this time not needing guidance: He knew the room he was looking for. He ascended the spiraling walkway a short distance before entering the specific chamber.
The one that had housed his green and blue crystals.
He pulled off his mask, a breath creating fog before him. He stood completely still in the middle of the room as the bag opened seemingly of its own accord. The lightsabers within exited, levitating into the air before him. Two hilts, the ones housing the blue crystal and the stygium crystal, were identical, while the third was unique; both designs were standard, however.
As they levitated, Aerandir reached into a pocket on his vest, opening it and procuring the Dantari crystal. He then held it in the air, and it lifted from his palm, resting in the middle of the blades' revolution.*
"Care to explain?" *he asked casually of the air around him.* "What gives? I came here many years ago to seek a lightsaber crystal, along with my sister and daughter." *The blade removed itself from the lightsaber orbit and stilled its motions, facing upward.* "We all found them. Mine here in this very room. They still use theirs. I thought that was that. And yet..."
*The stygium blade mimicked the green blade, coming to a vertical stop beside it.* "... I found this. Stygium. Leaves no signature. Useful when one wants to conceal themselves. Felt like a perfect crystal, helps me keep incognito, and the blade's composition surprises people.
"But then I come back here. I brought my son because it was time for him to find his crystal. But you called me back into this room." *The final lightsaber met with its brothers.* "Where I found this. Blue this time. Right next to the green one." *He indicated a segment of the wall that was obviously carved out, even a little charred, where indeed Aerandir had retrieved both crystals.* "But why though? Why have I been called to cycle through these different weapons?
"And look here." *Finally, the Dantari crystal joined with the lightsabers, hovering beside the blue crystal's hilt.* "I just picked this up on Dantooine. Big battle there. Yet this little guy gave off a similar vibe, a desire to be taken by me. I didn't exactly have time to debate things so I grabbed it and took it home. I studied it. Learned its properties. And the call never went away. In a way, it seems to call more strongly than the previous crystals, though whether that's because I don't remember how strongly they called to me, I don't know."
*Even though no one stood before him, not even the strange roach-like apparitions that had met with him in every previous journey, he knew he had an audience. The Force itself was here, listening; it was what maintained this place, guided its visitors, and devised those challenges they would have to face in order to acquire their crystals. Though he definitely had to admit: Not seeing one of those apparitions was a little confusing. By now he would have met with one, or at least seen one greeting him.*
"I suppose... I came to seek answers. This was the best place I could think of to look for them. Helps it's where two of the past crystals came from." *He looked around the room once more. His trials here had pit him against apparitions. The first trial? Two of them. First was an apparition of his foe-turned-brother Ambar Calmcacil, when he was still then known as Darth Ascin. The other? A vision of what a fallen Morgan would be like. They were clearly meant to shake him, and the latter nearly had, but he prevailed.
Then his second journey... Only a single apparition came. This time, it was a Jedi Aerandir had known. Had served on the same Council with. Had removed from the same Council. And was once more present in the galaxy under a new name. The encounter here had been a warning, but it had been some time ago. Only recently had the warning come to pass. Aerandir almost felt too slow; he had recognized that something was likely wrong with Jacob Forman during his previous visit here, but he had been unable to prevent the destruction of Deralia's Jedi Academy.
But no longer. Aerandir would meet him head on each time and do all in his power to rebuff him, and hopefully one day eradicate his "First Order."
The Dantari crystal began to resonate with Aerandir's resolve. He looked upon it for a moment... and then he sat upon the ground, folding his legs, hands upon his thighs. He closed his eyes. The crystal lowered itself, hovering before him. The lightsabers resumed a revolution, this time around Aerandir himself, rotating along several axes. If he was going to become dedicated to the cause of eliminating Soku Ren and the First Order, he needed to purify himself and become one with the light.
His mind emptied until there was only the Force. It entered his very being, flowing through him, into his crystal, and back into him. He understood now. He'd been continually seeking because he hadn't found the right crystal. Now it lay before him... but it wasn't ready. It required attunement... To himself, and to Ashla.
"The ability to reflect the alignment of the wielder." Yes, this crystal would truly become one with the light. To do that, Aerandir needed to do so himself. And the light was present here, a guidance. It filled him, bringing peace to his mind and being. So this was his mission, then? Purification, to become the instrument of Ashla necessary to keep balance in the universe, to prevent the forces of evil from enslaving the galaxy? Then he would gladly dedicate himself wholly to the cause. Not just here, but anywhere the font of Ashla flowed greatly.
He opened his eyes. The flap of the bag curled open on its own as the three lightsabers returned to it. Aerandir lifted a hand so that the crystal could lower into his palm; perhaps it was a trick of the lighting, but he swore it seemed slightly whiter in shade. No matter.
He pocketed the crystal once more, standing.* "... thank you," *he spoke at length to the room, then turned to make his leave. He stopped quickly, for there, flanking the doorway, were two of those strange, humanoid, roach-like beings. They both gave him an assuring nod. Aerandir stared at them briefly in confusion, then smiled and returned the nod before they vanished into wisps of smoke.
Without another word, he exited the chamber, descending the spiraling walkway as he made to leave the crystal caves...*
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Darth Malvus
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Post by Darth Malvus on Sept 25, 2016 6:57:13 GMT -8
Not long after the Jedi had vanished into the caves would another figure enter and begin examining the crystals. His appearance was aged, but hidden beneath a thick cloak. Strands of white and grey hair were visibly seen at the cascading out from the hood that covered the man's face. A withered hand would reach up, picking up a small chunk of crystal before his unseen eyes examined it quietly. He seemed to be nothing more than a casual traveler who had ventured to Ilum like others before, seeking the crystals that lied within the planet's massive caves. Even though this world was thick within the rumored territory of the First Order, there was no one here to guard it nor Imperial forces patrolling this sector, allowing any and all to still venture to Ilum without being hindered.
As Aerandir approached the entry to the crystal caves, the aged man could be seen sitting on top of a series of rocks at the mouth of the cave. His old hands still examining the crystal that he had come across and seemed very intrigued. Yet he was not distracted as the Jedi almost passed by him. For the moment Aerandir was practically opposite of him, an old voice spoke to him.
Tell me, Master Jedi, how fares your pilgrimage?
The aged man would look up with milky white eyes at Aerandir, awaiting an answer from him.
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The Sith Lord, Malvus, had heard word of Jedi activity within the northern quadrants of the Outer Rim when he visited Dromund Kaas for a period of time. It seemed that with the appearance of this new Imperial faction, known as the First Order, the Jedi were on the move as well. Dantooine had become a battleground between the two factions, according to his agents and what little was spoken of by travelers to Eriadu. The galaxy was once more coming to life, thought Malvus, as he reviewed every report brought to him. Among the word passed on and the agents during their debriefings, a lone name was spoken among all the others; Aerandir Calmcail, Jedi Master. It was a name not unfamiliar to the Sith Lord, for this was the same Jedi, among others, that did the galaxy a favor by wiping out the Kashyyyk Sith. It made the Sith wonder what the Jedi Order was up to and, more specifically, what Aerandir was up to.
Taking nothing more than a guess and a hint from the Force, the Sith Lord would venture for the far reaches of the galaxy, to the ice planet of Ilum. This planet was once a holding of the ancient Jedi Order and her successors, a place of meditation and lightsaber crystals. If there were Jedi, like Calmcail, they would surely make their way to Ilum at some point. The Force was with him when the Sith, after weeks of observation, discovered the arrival of this Master Jedi. A patient Sith as ever, Malvus would cloak himself in the Force, altering his appearance to that of a blind old man. He needed to learn more of this Jedi. He needed more information of the Jedi movements. And Aerandir would surely give the indications he needed.
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Aerandir Calmcacil
The Jedi Order
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Post by Aerandir Calmcacil on Sept 25, 2016 22:28:43 GMT -8
*Aerandir's descent concluded as he returned to the ground level of the Crystal Caves, sights set on the chamber that led to the exit. Much to his surprise, there was another figure present, sitting near the entrance with a crystal in his hands. Upon closer inspection, they seemed rather aged. Aerandir couldn't help but find this bizarre; if anything, he would have thought he'd run into a gorgodon sooner than another making their pilgrimage to this ritualistic place, particularly considering the war atmosphere.
He considered speaking to the figure, but it spoke to him first, asking about his own pilgrimage. This revealed the figure to be male and, judging by his eyes, possibly blind. Something seemed very strange about all this, but nevertheless, Aerandir stopped and answered,* "Better than I could have hoped for."
*His eyes found the crystal in the elderly man's hand and examined it a moment. Everything just somehow seemed off about this: An aged, seemingly blind man journeying to Ilum on his own, seemingly recovering his own crystal at such an advanced age? Certainly he could have been aided in flight via droid or sighted companion, and certainly one in-tune with the Force would find lack of eyesight a minor inconvenience with proper diligence... He supposed the sight before him wasn't necessarily impossible, and yet something unsettled him about it.*
"And yours?" *he asked conversationally, showing not a single outward sign of his suspicious thoughts.*
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Darth Malvus
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Post by Darth Malvus on Sept 26, 2016 5:37:42 GMT -8
Oh no, Master Jedi. I am no pilgrim. In my youth, I was a geological surveyor. This may just be my final trip... for ever since I was a boy, I always wanted to see the fabled crystal caves of Ilum. To gaze upon her wondrous beauty and unique formations.
Slowly the crystal within the aged man's hand was set down beside him. It was at that moment that one could sense a change in the stranger's mood, a shift in his thoughts, a alteration to his attitude. The wrinkled face once more looked upon Aerandir. With a man who had such a profound life with his professional, he had surely seen much and learned just as much. The man reaches for his walking stick, tapping it lightly upon the crystal beside him.
You should be careful though, Master Jedi. Very careful. For predator's eyes are already watching you.
Malvus, disguised as the aged man, wondered how the Jedi would react to his warning. It was an important observation that needed to be accounted for. Was the Jedi a man who believed the Sith were not totally destroyed at Kashyyyk or were clouds blinding him from what was right before him.
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