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Post by Vecna Shadowmantle on Oct 15, 2019 17:18:39 GMT -8
Very well then, if it is a demonstration you want, then witness this final assault.
Turning back to his minions he raised a hand. In unison the creatures turned back to face the hopelessly out numbered defending fortress. Vecna then swiftly dropped his arm and the host rushed forward. The defending Tuskins fought tooth and nail, making the hoard pay for every inch they gained. But it was not enough, for Vecna, safe behind his pawns was free to conduct his magic. The freshly dead defenders would rise and join the ranks of their former enemy, every death put the defender behind by two instead of just one. Inch by inch, life by life, the defenders lost ground and hope. Soon the undead had put each and every inhabitant of the stronghold to the slaughter. It would have been a good day, had this stranger not revealed that his existence was known. After the battle, and before returning to acknowledge the stranger, Vecna called his living servants to him. Timidly they approached their master.
You have each served me well. But my time walking among you is at an end. But you will do me one last service...
Before a question could be asked, or a voice raised in response, Vecna once more utilized his draining ability, stripping all twelve of the tuskins of their lives and energy. Their spirits seemed to disappear into the shadow of the beings cloaked face. And with a wave of his hand the hoard of undead collapses, once more motionless. With this last act done, Vecna turns back to the new comer.
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The Fallen
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Post by The Fallen on Oct 30, 2019 22:38:04 GMT -8
Ifrit stood and watched as the final assault was launched. The man's command of magic was quite impressive, raising the dead almost as soon as they fell. Just as quickly as it started, the assault was over. The undead horde now all the larger thanks to the victory they had just won. Ifrit did not move as Vecna devoured the souls of the 12 remaining living tuskens. His energy seeming to replenish with the act before the host of undead collapsed. He raised an eyebrow as Vecna approached him then and said nothing
An impressive display... I suppose I should introduce myself. I am The Fallen, and I head up the Dark Jedi Order... A group of darksiders that do not follow the Sith code, choosing to not enslave themselves to uncontrolled emotions... You seem like one that would benefit greatly from our Order, if you're interested that is...
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Post by Vecna Shadowmantle on Oct 31, 2019 19:33:54 GMT -8
This being was strong, Vecna could tell that easily. Yet this person was the one who sought him out, not vice versa. Did this imply he was not as powerful as he appeared? Or perhaps he was seeking those with talents particular to Vecna? Either way, the former hoard puppeteer needed a way off this dust bowl before the Jedi or someone less willing to talk found him. Though he needn't revel how desperate he was yet.
And what can your Order offer me?
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The Fallen
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Post by The Fallen on Nov 5, 2019 22:47:42 GMT -8
It was a simple question from Vecna in response to Ifrit's offer. And one that he had been anticipating. After all, it only made sense that the Dark Jedi Order should offer a potential new candidate something in return for his joining it. He smiled then, motioning toward the barren desert around them
For one, a way off of this barren wasteland in the middle of nowhere... You'll have a place to live and work and train, away from any further visitors that might prefer to remove your head from your body. You'll have access to shipyards and all manner of resources at the Orders' disposal. You're a talented Force User already, so you'll be free to operate as you wish and train with other Masters such as yourself. I may yet be able to teach you a thing or two... Sound enticing enough yet, or would you prefer I leave you here with your horde of puppets in the middle of the desert?
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Post by Vecna Shadowmantle on Nov 11, 2019 21:04:18 GMT -8
Tilting his head to one side, Vecna's shrouded face continued to look Ifrit over. The creature seemed to be honest and his offers genuine. He reached a gauntleted hand out for the other man to take, in the customary way that beings bound spoken contracts.
I will join you. These offerings do suit my needs.
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The Fallen
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Post by The Fallen on Nov 14, 2019 20:32:33 GMT -8
Ifrit reached out and took the armoured glove, shaking the man's hand to seal the deal. With the bargain struck, Ifrit reached down and picked up the Warglaives and motioned for Vecna to follow
Excellent. My ship is just over here, from there, we will head to Ambria. There, you will meet the rest of our Order, and we'll figure out where you best fit amongst our ranks...
Assuming Vecna had no further questions, Ifrit would lead the way through the desert back to the Dark Jedi Infiltrator, where they could load up into the shipp. From there, Tasradan would fly the ship up to the Phaedra and that would carry them from Tatooine to Ambria
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Nartaga
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Post by Nartaga on Feb 21, 2020 2:52:31 GMT -8
The steady beat of war drums echoed throughout the Enclave, nearly overtaking the sounds of the Tusken city. Months had passed since the horrific attack and through much effort, much of the damage had been repaired. Tuskens still mourned for their lost brothers and sisters that had died, but what was more powerful was the rage, honed to a fine blade. The full might of the R'Crurak clan were working to prepare for the coming weeks. Nearly a dozen sandcrawlers were lined up in columns outside of the walls of the Enclave, Jawas and Tuskens moving supplies to and from the massive transports, making any repairs, as well as improving on the behemoths in any way possible. Armor was put on the sides of the treads, to protect them being taken out as easily and blaster turrets were mounted atop the hull.
Inside the Enclave, the forges were ablaze, billowing smoke as metal was melted down and crafted into weapons; gaderffii, blades, armor, shields, slugthrowers, anything the Sentries thought they would need. The Engineers worked on the collection of blasters the R'Crurak had amassed. Years of trade with the Outsiders had been beneficial for the then-peaceful clan of Tuskens. They had enough blasters for nearly half of the Sentries, with the more specialized weapons being reserved for Dunewalkers and higher ranking Sentries. The Engineers also worked on getting the two ships in their possession combat ready, as well as continuing to work on the prototypes of the starfighters they had been designing and testing over the years. Atop the mountain, the Sentry training ground was full of volunteers, all ready to be taught the ways of the R'Crurak Sentries, as well as veterans brushing up on their techniques and aim.
Nartaga stood outside the Great Hall, on a platform built for the occasion of this speech. He
-Nartaga in Tusken-
"We have been taken for fools for long enough. They say it is we who are savages, but it is they who come to our homes and kill our families, our children! Desecrate our dead! Rape our world!"
Shouts from the large crowd gathered echoed up into the air. Behind Nartaga were the surviving members of the R'Crurak Council, Rik'Ur and K'Shir, as well as the Elder and Kal'Shor. All except the Elder and K'Shir nodded their heads in agreement.
-Nartaga in Tusken-
"We have tried to live by their rules, to coexist, and maintain peace between our people. Still they kill our people, treat us as mindless animals! We have laws, and we feel the loss of our clansmen. The Council has voted to give me the title of War Chieftain, and I shall accept this title and its powers until this difficult time is over, and we can once more be at peace. The Outsiders have forgotten that this is our home, and we will take it back!"
A concise speech, but Nartaga had only done it at the behest of Rik'Ur, who thought it would help the morale of any who came. True, it did seem to lift spirits, and Nartaga could not help but enjoy the energy of the still cheering and yelling crowd. The now War Chieftain approached Kal'Shor, leader of the R'Crurak Dunewalkers, and brought his mouth close to the Dunewalker's ear, so he could hear him over the raucous gathering in the Enclave streets.
-Nartaga in Tusken-
"Send messengers to every clan and tribe we know of. If they do not join us, they are our enemy."
There was a visible hesitation as confusion gave the Dunewalker pause, but he nodded his head and went to make the arrangements.
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Nartaga
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Post by Nartaga on Aug 9, 2020 22:48:12 GMT -8
Holding onto the syringe as he walked Zed carefully watched the newcomers. Although they had seemingly helped the duo there was an unease in their movements. No doubt the fact that he stood a solid foot higher than the average Tusken, and his seeming deafness would give hints that he was more than he seemed. If any of their would be saviors spoke Zed made sure not to look at them, instead keeping his head on a swivel keeping a look out for anything else that may come their way. This was the most living beings he had seen at any one time and despite the barrier between them it was nice to be in company of a larger group. Especially after the encounter with the Krayt. |
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Zed Bakiska
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Post by Zed Bakiska on Aug 10, 2020 12:19:12 GMT -8
Zed looked around intently at the various Sand People as they went about their lives. Their was not a lot of information in the universe about them so it was so interesting to see how a village operated when it was not under attack from other outsiders. Children playing. Men and women working on the various every day tasks that were needed to keep the village running.
As Nartaga screamed out in pain Zed started to reach out towards the shaman but as soon as the scream started it was cut off. Figuring he was doing his best to assess the damage to Nartaga. Still it pained him to see his friend in pain and when he was told to move the travois into the hut he did so putting him on the stone table. He ignored much of the contents of the room, but could not help but see much of it that he did recognize was heavily used and worn as if passing many hands before ending up in this tent. He hoped the smell of death came from the room, and not from his friend.
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Nartaga
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Post by Nartaga on Aug 10, 2020 19:35:31 GMT -8
When Nartaga was placed up on the table, the shaman undid the bindings holding the injured Tusken in place on the stretcher. The Tusken moved away from the table and to his array of instruments and medicines, looking through and grabbing several items. Placing the items on the table beside the wounded Tusken, there were several different containers and vials, a syringe similar to the one Zed had been given earlier, a ruby red crystal, some shears, a flat piece of metal, and a brace. The shaman carefully removed the glove from Nartaga's right hand and then with the shears began cutting the wrappings up from his wrist to his shoulder, then moving diagonally downward across the Tusken's chest. The Shaman then began peeling back the cut coverings to reveal the pale skin of the being beneath all those layers of protective clothing.There was pause as the shaman finished removing the cut cloth from Nartaga's right arm and chest. The injuries were plain to see as there were large black bruises all along his arm and his side from his injuries. What had made the shaman stop was that the body was not Tusken biologically, but was in fact human or near human. After a few moments the Or'Rrk'Rkr Tusken placed his hands above Nartaga's bare chest, not touching the skin, and moved them along as if he were trying to discern something. The shaman grabbed one of the vials he had placed next to Nartaga and returned it to its place on the shelf, instead grabbing a different one further down. Taking the needle and drawing up some of the clear liquid within, he would tilt Nartaga still masked head to the side and inject the contents of the syringe into the unreactive Tusken's neck.The Shaman motioned for Zed, pointing to Nartaga and signing for him to hold the unconscious Tusken still. The healer's first priority was resetting the dislocated shoulder. He grabbed above the higher break on the injured Tusken's arm, and while using his other hand to hold his shoulder, twisted and pulled to pop it back into place. Whatever the shaman had done to put Nartaga asleep was holding, as he did not move or wake up. Next was the broken arm. There was the same hesitation as before as the shaman looked over the arm and then picked it up, moving the flat stone under it. With both hands he began trying to reset the bones in Nartaga's arm back into place. This took nearly fifteen minutes, with Nartaga beginning to struggle against the hands holding him down, but still remaining under whatever influence the shaman had put on him to keep him from waking up.With the arm mostly reset, the shaman then dipped his hands into a sticky green goo in a small container he had gotten earlier and began coating Nartaga's injuries in the very pungent salve until the pale white skin was covered in it. Taking the crystal and holding it above the injuries, he began chanting aloud. The crystal began to glow a bright red, and there was a hum of energy that began to fill the immediate area around the shaman. As the light grew bright, the shaman would cover the crystal with his free hand, and then pull it away closed, and then placed his hand on Nartaga's bare skin. Each time the crystal grew dark momentarily before the light slowly built back up, as if the light energy was being pulled out and placed into the patient. This went on for nearly thirty minutes before the Tusken healer finally stopped his chants and began returning his tools back to their previous places. He returned with wrappings similar to the ones that had been cut off of Nartaga, and used the coverings to bind his fingers together like a glove, and then work his way all the way up the injured Tusken's arm, and then across his chest, essentially immobilizing that part of the Tusken's body to prevent movement as much as possible. By the time he finished, Nartaga was once again covered up completely, and his arm was placed into the brace that the healer had set aside.The healer motioned for Zed to pay attention, and then signed for him to watch Nartaga, before leaving the hut for an unknown purpose. The R'Crurak Tusken would remain still for nearly two more hours, the Suns now completely set, until finally opening his eyes. His mouth was dry as sand, and it was still hard to breath. The recollection of what had transpired lit up in his mind. Nartaga tried to move, but as soon as he did the pain of his tended to injuries shot through him and he nearly blacked out once more. "Where am I!?" He cried out in Tusken. He squinted through the creeping darkness at the edges of his vision and spotted the unmistakable Zed, still disguised. Nartaga reached out to the Stennes with his uninjured arm. "What happen, Zed? Remember....run...krayt. Dark." The Tusken spoke Basic quietly, unsure if others might be listening. He was too weak to fully gather his surroundings, but he needed answers.
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Zed Bakiska
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Post by Zed Bakiska on Aug 11, 2020 14:29:36 GMT -8
Relief would have flowed over his face had it been visible, glancing around the room he spoke softly after feeling they weren't being watched. Signing only, they think I can't hear. Think I am Sand Person. With that Zed went into explaining as well as he could using his hands to explain the trip towards the camp with the other Sand People and that the shaman or healer had stripped Zed and run over his body with a goo and a crystal. All the while he had kept watch and helped as needed as the injuries from the dragon were healed. He then began explaining the water and spring that was outside feeling as if that would be significant to help Nartaga understand their location.
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Nartaga
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Post by Nartaga on Aug 11, 2020 17:05:06 GMT -8
With his functioning hand Nartaga felt over his chest, at the new bindings that had been applied by the healer. He inspected the new wrappings as well as the torn and ragged old coverings still covering the other half of his torso and left arm. The Tusken hung his head, feeling the heavy weight of shame overcome him. Even if it had been to save his life, it was still dishonorable to have his coverings removed in front of others. It was not something the Tusken would get over, nor did he think that it would help his standing with whatever clan they were rescued by. Word was sure to have spread about the pair of rescuees that had been come across in the wastes, and as his vision cleared he was able to become fully aware of his surroundings.Nartaga missed some of what Zed said as he looked around the hut they were in. It was one he had been in before, so once he had his bearings the Tusken knew immediately where they were. The Enclave under the control of the Or'Rrk'Rkr clan. He was relieved they had been found and brought here. Of the several different tribes' and clans' territory they had been in the vicinity of, they were lucky to have been discovered by the one they were travelling to. Suddenly the thought of his bantha came to the forefront of his mind. "Patashu!" Nartaga exclaimed as he swung his legs over the side of the table and attempted to stand. However, he was still far too weak to be able to be able to move this much, as was unable to lift himself fully from the table, using his hand to prop himself up and half lean on the stone surface. A shadow blocked out the light of the open doorway of the hut, and the face of Patashu was sticking partially inside, though the mount was far too big to fully fit her head in due to her horns. Several small whining bleats came forth from Patashu before the bantha opened her mouth and stuck her prehensile tongue out in an attempt to reach her rider. It was just barely able to reach, and Nartaga fought through the pain in his ribs to lean forward as the tongue of his mount felt over his covered head, as if in disbelief. Patashu retracted her tongue and let out a victorious call, which was soon echoed by several other Banthas in the village and could be heard past her.Nartaga pulled himself out of the partial bow while clutching his side. The Tusken turned his head to Zed and signed his thanks for the outsider. He made sure to keep his voice hushed as much as possible, and risked speaking to the disguised being in Basic once more. "Zed not there....Nartaga not here...Would be dead." The R'Crurak Tusken paused, as if listening for something. Patashu was still partially blocking the entryway into the hut, so he felt he could risk continuing to speak for now. They would have a fairly good warning when someone was coming. "Need plan. Supplies? Anything left from attack?"
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Zed Bakiska
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Post by Zed Bakiska on Aug 16, 2020 8:34:48 GMT -8
Shaking his head and raising his hands in modesty moved closer to the injured Tusken and knelt beside him having to push his way past Patashu to do it. And I would not be here without you. I am just glad to have been any help for you, I don't think I have ever seen an animal that big before and in my weakened state I was not much help. He was not one to believe in fate or omens, but this would be a pretty convincing case for it.
Going to rub his face to wipe away the thought he laughed as his gloved hand bumped into the mask. Although by now he had gotten used to wearing the covering there were still a lot of mannerisims he would need to learn or unlearn if he was to pass off as a Sand Person during their stay here. Some of their scouts recovered what they could when they found us but it was not as much as we left with. They were either destroyed or are lost to the sands. I think they left them nearby but until you are ready to move we should not worry about it.
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Nartaga
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Post by Nartaga on Aug 20, 2020 19:09:32 GMT -8
The Tusken nodded in agreement with Zed on the size of the beast that had attacked them. "Great Krayt. Rare." Nartaga withdrew into his thoughts for a moment, trying to figure out what had drawn the creature to them. Something like this was bound to be either a blessing or curse from some unknown party. In the shaman's mind, the chances of a creature expending that much energy to chase down a single bantha and duo of humanoids was hard to believe. It did not make sense to him from a survival perspective. Why not instead continue travelling further until coming across a larger group of prey and have a greater chance of catching a slow one? Nartaga did not share these thoughts with Zed, even finding himself to be a little paranoid. But it was something to keep in mind. Nartaga did not have many enemies, fewer that could actually influence the actions of such a powerful beast as that of a greater krayt dragon. Until he knew for certain he would not bring it up.
Patashu grunted and huffed as if annoyed by something, and after several grunts the bantha removed her head from blocking the entryway into the hut. Nartaga raised his functioning hand to Zed to quiet himself mid-sentence. The Or'Rrk'Rkr healer from before was shoving his way past the large furry obstacle and back into his dwelling. The healer moved over to Nartaga, tightly gripping the R'Crurak by his undamaged shoulder and holding him still while he inspected the bindings and wrappings that at this point were holding him together. Heard Outsider tongue. Do not deny it. Are either of you true Tuskens? The Or'Rrk'Rkr said in his native language. Nartaga turned his head to stare down the other Tusken, speaking in the harsh Tusken language in response. We came to trade. Our origins do not matter.
Nartaga's voice was firm, though the Tusken healer did not back down from his stance. The R'Crurak are allies of the Or'Rrk'Rkr. Their crest on your pauldron is the only reason you were not left for dead. The Or'Rrk'Rkr healer released his grip on Nartaga's shoulder. You are no brethren of mine. I saw the shame beneath your wrappings, human. I did not know the R'Crurak clan took in outsider filth. I still remember when I was young and our clans slaughtered the water farmers for sport. We left...no survivors. The healer spat onto the ground at Nartaga's feet. The younger Tusken turned his head away, feeling his face burn with both intense anger and deep shame. He looked over to Zed, speaking in Basic to the stennes. "We leave. Go find supplies. Trade. Then back to Mospics." The Or'Rrk'Rkr healer turned away from the Tusken and went about tidying up the mess that had been made with the healing process.The injured Tusken struggled to stand on his own strength, but was having great difficulty.
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Zed Bakiska
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Post by Zed Bakiska on Aug 22, 2020 14:39:54 GMT -8
Despite only having a rough grasp of the language it was clear to Zed that the Or'Rrk'Rkr Shaman was insulting both him and Nartaga. Although he was willing to accept the accusations as they were true about him it was Nartaga he was insulted on the behalf of. As the shaman barked at them in its native language the anger inside Zed rose to nigh unmanageable levels. Drawing forth The Force towards him he prepared to strike down the Shaman with The Force and was fully prepared to fight his way out of the camp. War he understood. Fighting he understood. Wiping out those who were different than you for no other reason than they looked different he could not accept. Nor condone. Just as he was about to strike out he saw Nartaga struggle to rise and released his pent up anger and instead went to his aid.
Looking over at the Or'Rrk'Rkr Shaman Zed formed the words in his head and spat out the words in the Tusken language slowly enunciating each word to ensure the words were understood. Nartaga not shamed. Nartaga forced Krayt to retreat despite being smaller. You shame Tuskens and you by hunting Outsiders for fun.
As he finished speaking Zeds throat felt raw and strained. He doubted he could speak again Basic or otherwise. The sounds were foreign to his throat and stretching the muscles in his throat in ways he had never done before had over taxed them. Still, as if to push his luck further he gave the Shaman the finger before going to aid Nartaga in leaving should he need it.
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Nartaga
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Post by Nartaga on Aug 22, 2020 20:02:36 GMT -8
Nartaga wrapped his left arm around Zed's shoulder to help support himself as the pair made their way out. The Tusken's right side dragged slightly with each step, but he was able to move with the help of the Jensaarai. He listened with surprise as Zed spoke in Tusken to the Or'Rrk'Rkr shaman. Had he learned some basic words in the time he had been unconscious? How long had he actually been knocked out? By the time these thoughts had crossed his mind it was too late to stop Zed from finishing what he said. The damage was done. The Or'Rrk'Rkr healer shook his walking staff, causing the totems hanging from the top to shake violently. It seems you are more dumb than deaf. The shaman began muttering words in the native tongue of his people, a battle chant for an attack, but Nartaga intervened with a very painful and strained shout. No! We will leave. I am sorry for my friend. He does not understand Or'Rrk'Rkr customs. Nartaga heaved in a pained breath with his still damaged ribs, and hung his head in apology to the healer, and now leading Zed out of the hut despite him being the injured one.
The shaman stopped his battle chants, the power he had been drawing to himself dissipating. The Tusken upturned his head in response. Despite there not being a fight, he felt he had won. After the pair had exited the healer's hut, a sack of Nartaga's torn clothing was thrown out. Nartaga would balance on one leg and unsling his arm from Zed, bending down to pick up what remained of his original clothing. With just the wrappings he was in, Nartaga was much thinner, as opposed to how much the clothing seemed to add to his frame. With his good arm, the Tusken tossed the sack up onto the back of the nearby Patashu, landing on the saddle and staying atop the beast, who let out what may have been a congratulatory bleat.
Nartaga hung his arm back around Zed for support and pointed further back towards the mountain, closer to the water. He would begin slowly walking with Zed's help in that direction. "Thank Zed. But not place. Shaman could have kill Zed." Chances were the shaman had spread the word of Nartaga's biological origins, so there was no point in trying to maintain any sort of disguise, at least when it came to languages. If they were to find out Zed was an outsider that might tip the scales of tolerance, but speaking the language would give them some privacy in conversation as it was not a commonly spoken language by the Tusken people. "Nartaga know Zed mean well. Tusken ways different." Nartaga stopped walking for a moment to rest. His breathing was still labored and each breath felt like his chest was being stabbed from the inside. "Need go Or'Rrk'Rkr Chieftain hut. They know where took goods."
After another few minutes of resting and trying to breathe as normally as possible, Nartaga would start to move with Zed's help once more, pointing towards a larger, older looking building compared to the rest. To the side was the battered travois, carrying what the rescue party had found and collected. Beside the travois was the greater krayt's tooth, a harness of rope tied around to have dragged it here. Several Tuskens were gathered around in front of the hut. Some seemed to be conversing, others were gawking at the large krayt fang that was on display.
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Zed Bakiska
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Post by Zed Bakiska on Aug 23, 2020 12:02:07 GMT -8
Zed was not surprised to see that his words had sparked a violent reaction from the Shaman, and although he had hoped this had been one of those Shamans without any connection to The Force he was also not surprised to feel the Tusken drawing it towards him. Of course as he did so, Zed ate the ambient power ready and willing to strike despite Nartagas reaction.
Leading to the direction of the pool he ignored the looks that the duo garnered. Or I may have killed him. Although it would have been close Zed truly believed that had push come to shove he could have beaten the Or'Rrk'Rkr shaman. He could have also survived in the camp going unnoticed, but Nartaga would not. Sometimes people need to be shown they are wrong.
As they arrived to Nartagas belongings Zed made sure that Nartaga was as comfortable as he could be before approaching the travois and checked it over tightening a few of the straps to better secure the items on board. Also taking a better look at the tooth now that it was not in a snarling beast intent on eating them Zed looked back to the shaman to tell him how to proceed with the fang.
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Nartaga
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Post by Nartaga on Aug 23, 2020 22:06:50 GMT -8
Nartaga thought on Zed's self assured statement. So far the Tusken had only seen the Jensaarai lift the top of a box up into the air with telekinesis, so he had no gauge of his abilities. The battle between the krayt was a dark haze, so the shaman had no idea if he had shown off more of his abilities. As they arrived to the larger hut where there belongings were, Nartaga stood back while Zed checked the straps and items, leaning more to his left side to stay off of his right. The outsider's perspective was not wrong when it came to getting a point across. Tusken culture was filled with violence, but there was still a social hierarchy and caste culture in many of the clans and tribes. To attack someone high up in that structure of a clan, like a shaman, with as much influence and power as the Or'Rrk'Rkr would be a death sentence, even if they managed to escape after.Nartaga signed with his left hand. There was heavy hesitation in his body language, indicating how conflicted he was about the situation. The ins and outs of Tusken culture were sometimes very convoluted and hard to navigate. For someone not raised among them, it would be even harder. The list of clans he was able to openly interact with since he was excommunicated by his tribe were few. He was not in any position to create more problems with the ones who would deal with him, even if barely. Still, now that the fact that he was not born Tusken had surely been spread to the leadership of the Or'Rrk'Rkr clan, problems were sure to arise with his ability to move freely in their lands.As Zed was busy checking the cargo that had been salvaged, the crowd of Tuskens in front of the building and gathered around the fang grew silent, turning their attention to the tall Tusken impersonator. A smaller chattering of confusion welled up as several of the Tusken looked to one another, not sure how to proceed. Through the crowd however, a large framed Tusken, though still a full head shorter than Zed, made his way, barking for the others to move out of the way. This Tusken carried an ornate gaderffii, inscribed with what appeared to be pictographs and symbols along the shaft. Besides the normal Tusken clothing, he wore a set of shoulder pads which were connected by a protective chest plate. Nartaga limped over to stand beside Zed and attempted a bow to the individual. He tugged on the sleeve of Zed's robe, trying to get him to do the same. Chieftain Or'Rish. It is an honor. We are grateful for the aid the Or'Rrk'Rkr have given us. We would have per- The Chieftain raised a hand, cutting the R'Crurak Tusken off. He looked down at the injured Tusken, before turning his head slightly to look up at the eyes of Zed's mask. Why are you eyeing my prize, whelp? The Chieftain tightened the grip on his gaderffii in his right hand.Nartaga lifted from his attempted bow and waved his unbound hand. I think this is a misunderstanding, Chieftain. The Chieftain rolled his shoulders, bringing his grip to the center of his gaffii stick and crossed it in between his arms: an attempt at intimidating the pair. You said you were grateful, no? Then this should be a pittance in exchange for your lives. The Chieftain uncrossed his arms, and let the shaft of his gaderffii slide back down in his grasp. The mace end was now hanging closest to the ground. Unless either of you wish to challenge my claim?Nartaga was confused. He had interacted with the chieftain of the Or'Rrk'Rkr clan many times, and the way he was speaking was very unusual. The Chieftain was an honorable man, and had been aware of Nartaga's lineage for many years. The Chieftain had nearly half a century on Nartaga in age, and before his exile he had even fought alongside the Or'Rrk'Rkr chieftain in battle when the R'Crurak tribe aided the much larger clan as support. Was the Chieftain posturing to appear strong to his clan, or did he just genuinely want to fight the people who had fought off a greater krayt dragon by themselves? He had been Chieftain for nearly forty years that Nartaga knew of. There could be rumblings for a replacement. This could be an attempt to prove he was still just as capable to lead to those who were doubting him because of his advanced age, despite it only hindering him slightly. Nartaga placed a hand on Zed's shoulder, leaning the mouth of his mask close to where Zed's ear would be, the Tusken whispered to the outsider in Basic. "Something not right. No other way. Chieftain want challenge. Let...win? Make look good.....Something off...." There was the same hesitation as before when he signed, as if he was unsure how to proceed. The Shaman had little understanding of politics when it came to clan leadership. He could never understand the power struggles that happened behind the scenes, at least not the ones fought with words. Nartaga reached into the travois and took out his own gaderffii which had been collected by the rescue party, extending it open finger palm up to Zed to take and use. He knew he would not be able to fight himself.The Chieftain let out a hearty chortle, and spun his gaderffii around by his wrist to warm up, not to attack. A circle of Tuskens gathered around the trio, with enough space to allow plenty of movement for the duel. You move as if you are a stranger to your wrappings, tall one. I hope Nartaga's faith in your abilities is not misplaced. He trusts too easily. The Chieftain brought up his gaderffii midway to his chest, holding the pointed mace end toward Zed, his left arm out wide. He was purposely leaving himself in an open starting position to bait Zed into attacking first.
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Zed Bakiska
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By the three Kennedys
Posts: 287
Affiliation: Jensaarai
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Post by Zed Bakiska on Aug 24, 2020 12:37:42 GMT -8
Having begun to bow as instructed by Nartaga Zed noticed the Tusken tighten his grip on the weapon he held. Although he did not understand Tusken society well, any village would have a leader and the way that both Nartaga and the other Or'Rrk'Rkr Tuskens behaved this was clearly their leader. As such eh was undeterred by the show of force instead he balled his hands into fists wishing that he had kept his weapons from before.
Listening to what Nartaga said he simply nodded his understanding. Accepting Nartagas weapon he found it to be heavier than it appeared to be, believing that the Chieftans to be just as heavy if not more so. Having been used to fighting with weightless weapons he felt the drag on his muscles in his arms. Before his time in the wastes he would have been able to hold the weapon and fight with it with very little problem. In time he would gain that strength back should the chieftain not take his life.
Ignoring the words and opening for a moment Zed began to swing the gaderffii around keeping the angled side on the inside of his forearm in order to familiarize himself with the way the weapon moves as well as showing off a little to the crowd that had gathered around them. Continuing to spin the weapon faster and faster using the weight of the weapon to propel it faster and then as he was facing the chieftain he struck out not aiming for him but instead for his weapon.
Knocking the chieftains weapon down the down the mace smashed into the sand spraying up onto both of them. Taking a step back as the Chieftain raised his weapon the point missing Zed by a few inches. Keeping his own weapon to his right side in the event his opponent would strike at him as the weapon was brought back up to bear he was surprised when it did not come then reminded himself that this weapon had weight and changing direction was difficult. This was going to be a fight of stamina, and a fight he could not win if it progressed too long. As such that was what he was going to do, keep this fight going as long as he could. Grasping the gaderffii in both hands, mace side up Zed began to side step around his opponent, ignoring the growing crowd around them. Embracing Shii-Cho had he not been in a fight, Zed and indeed the Tusken around him may have found it oddly fitting that the other name for this stance was The Way of the Saarlac.
As Zed rotated around his opponent the chieftain simply followed waiting for Zed to strike, mirroring his opponent. Striking out Zed swung the mace side towards the Tusken but was blocked as the staffs of the weapons met. As they did the blow rebounded into his hands and up his arms, grimacing under his mask he hated the feeling. Hated fighting with not lightsabers.
As the fight went on with each exchanging blows but neither hitting one another Zeds arms grew more and more leaden. Knowing that the fight would not last much longer he figured that he would have to do something and soon. He did not want to make it look obvious that he was throwing and had been doing a good job of it thus far, but to give up now may give it away. An idea struck him, and after blocking an overhead strike with the center of the gaderffii he changed tactics and felt the edge of the mace end smash into the bottom of his right hand, drawing a few specks of blood under his wrappings. Using both hands Zed took the hooked end and before the chieftain could take back his weapon to a guarded stance he yanked sliding the angled side towards his hands.
Releasing the weapon lest his hands become cut the chieftain tackled Zed to the ground landing on top of the Stennes and forcing the air out of his lungs. Instinctively Zed moved his forearms up to cover his face as he felt a fist falls rain down on him. Bucking his hips and rolling to the side the duo wrested for control of one another occassionally hitting each other with hammer fists or elbows. While rolling on the ground Zed leaned down closer towards the chieftain making it look like he was taking in a deep breath before going for a large blow. Instead he nodded imperceptibly so that only his opponent would see it. Then as he rose up to strike hoping the chieftain understood he felt the considerable strength of the chieftain buck him and manage to take back control of Zed. He managed to fight him off for a few more minutes as he felt an arm snake under his neck and begin to cut off oxygen to his brain. The last thing that passed through his head was hoping Nartaga knew what he was doing before the darkness took him.
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Nartaga
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Post by Nartaga on Aug 24, 2020 21:50:27 GMT -8
Nartaga watched the sparring match between Zed and the Chieftain, trying to gauge the clan leader's goal through his actions. Every swing of the gaffii, every step to match Zed's. It was important to know whether he had just volunteered his comrade for death, or if his hunch was correct about this being for show. Body language for Tuskens had just as much impact as their words due to their attire. Or'Rish seemed to be overwhelmingly good at camouflaging his intent, which did make sense. As a warrior, if you intentionally telegraphed your moves to your enemy you would be counter, or worse die. This fact sprouted a vine of doubt that began weaving its way through Nartaga's mind. As the battle drew into a climax with the fighters crashing to the ground, the crowd of Tusken that surrounded them became even more rambunctious and vocal in their shouts and cheers. Even though it was the Chieftain, there were still those who were cheering for the unnamed tall Tusken fighting their leader. Spill his blood to the sands! One Tusken shouted above the rest, though for who they were cheering for was unclear. Nartaga watched with unease as the Chieftain emerged victorious, with Zed laying still on the ground, unmoving save for the slight motion of his chest. Zed still breathed, though the chokehold had left him unconscious.Chieftain Or'Rish grabbed his gaderffii up from the ground and slowly stood back to his feet, holding the weapon over his head and shaking it in classic Tusken fashion. He declared victory for himself with a mighty roar. The hoots and hollers from the crowd that had encircled the opponents echoed throughout the valley the enclave rested in between the two mountains.Limping over to where Zed lay, the injured Tusken lay his left hand on the Stennes's masked forehead, trying to draw out his power to bring him back to consciousness. Nartaga felt a sharp pain in his mind, and there was the sensation of his very soul withering. He could not summon Tatooine's power to heal Zed.The Chieftain took notice of Nartaga's inability to resuscitate his companion. The boasting of victory leaving him, the old warrior slung his gaderffii onto his back and gestured at several Tuskens who had not gotten caught up in the revelry of their Chieftain's victory: guards most likely, who had been watching from the sidelines in case they had needed to step in and intervene. With a tilt of his head towards his opponent on the ground, the two Tusken guardsmen nodded in response and moved to pick up the comatose being. Nartaga lifted his hand from Zed's forehead and turned his hand over, staring at it in confusion. A heavy hand put itself on his shoulder, causing the Tusken to flinch slightly in pain. He looked up at Chieftain Or'Rish, who removed his hand from the kneeling Tusken's shoulder and held it out for him to take. We have business to discuss. Come with me.Nartaga looked back down at his left hand, hesitating for a moment. No harm will come to your friend. The Tusken Chieftain let out a self satisfied chuckled. No more harm shall come to him, at least. Nartaga took hold of Or'Rish's extended hand and was lifted to his feet. The Chieftain took in a deep breath and bellowed out to the crowd, which seemed both equal parts confused and excited to see if another fight was about to start. Return to your duties! There is nothing left to see here! A few grumbles echoed throughout the crowd of Tuskens, though it soon quieted, and was replaced with the chattering of casual conversation, talking about the fight that had just occurred, as well as other topics pertaining to the clan Chieftain. Chieftain Or'Rish led the Tusken into his hut.Through the first door of the larger hut there was a hallway which split off into several rooms whose doors were closed. Instead Nartaga and Zed were taken straight, which opened up into a throne room or dining hall of sorts. In the center was a long stone table with benches on either side, and at the far end were a short set of stairs which led up to a large chair crafted from the skull and fangs of a Krayt. Zed had already been taken into by the guardsmen, and put down on the furry pelt of a dunecat which acted like a rug at the entrance to the room. One of the Tusken guards knelt down and procured some smelling salts in a glass vial to snap the stennes back to consciousness, along with a few smacks to the side of his masked head. Or'Rish continued walking past the table, ascending to his throne and sitting down, setting his gaderffii to the left of him. From a small alcove to the right of the hall, a grizzled and grey anooba crept out of its resting place and to the right side of the throne, where it sat upright next to Or'Rish. With a wave of his hand the guards vacated the room and closed the door to the hall, leaving just the three beings and the anooba inside.Chieftain Or'Rish stroked the head and back of the creature, waiting for both Nartaga and Zed to approach him before speaking. He moved his free hand to gesture to Zed. I am sorry for using you, but it served a purpose to quiet the whispers of those who would question my authority. I was told the two of you fought off a greater krayt. The fang was proof enough. The chieftain clenched his hand into a fist and drew it inward to his chest. I saw an opportunity and I took it. And also... Or'Rish paused to add emphasis on the gravity of what he said next. I have need for pawns to do my bidding. Not Or'Rrk'Rkr...
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