41
OOC Cantina / Re: Andor
« Last post by George on February 26, 2025, 12:26:11 PM »Now that the Season 2 trailer is out, who's ready for the revolution?
Recent Posts
42
OOC Cantina / Re: Skeleton Crew (**Potential Spoilers**)
« Last post by SWSF Eidolon on February 25, 2025, 06:10:41 PM »Fun show. The stark contrast to the Andor approach is cool. It's nice to see the universe presented well from such a wide variety of story telling angles and tones besides the traditional. Kind of helps the whole thing feel like an actual Universe of infinite identity and character. (still Boooo the Vong.)
I was under impression the parents had no idea of the Fall of Republic or Rise of the Empire or Return of the Republic. They did seem a bit simplified and lacking much other than being 'the parents', which I guess kind of stays true to the kid gang homage format?
Jod's fate.. I assumed he was arrested by the NR. They will probably do a comic book about him, showing more origin and inbetween and after. Maybe a jailship break, that'd be fun Mando shout.
NR At Attin credit cache windfall is nice for their operations! The sinews of war
43
OOC Cantina / Re: Skeleton Crew (**Potential Spoilers**)
« Last post by Medivh on February 10, 2025, 02:49:26 PM »I just binge watched the series whiel recovering from COVID.
I enjoyed it; it definitely had that Goonies meets Star Wars vibe with the kids, which is actually just the right kind of comfort watching I need when I'm sick (when I was growing up, my sick-day choices were Star Wars OT, and Back to the Future, but I digress)
I did think that Jod was going to have at least some redemption at the end - though I also noticed he threatened a lot, but never killed any of the kids, or their parents, even though he had plenty of reason to at the end. So maybe his redemption was not killing them?
We also don't see him getting captured, and he chooses to stay in the tower when the others leave, at the end. We don't know where he is when the show ends. It might be interesting having a spin-off show about him and other pirates.
I enjoyed it; it definitely had that Goonies meets Star Wars vibe with the kids, which is actually just the right kind of comfort watching I need when I'm sick (when I was growing up, my sick-day choices were Star Wars OT, and Back to the Future, but I digress)
I did think that Jod was going to have at least some redemption at the end - though I also noticed he threatened a lot, but never killed any of the kids, or their parents, even though he had plenty of reason to at the end. So maybe his redemption was not killing them?
We also don't see him getting captured, and he chooses to stay in the tower when the others leave, at the end. We don't know where he is when the show ends. It might be interesting having a spin-off show about him and other pirates.
44
Star Wars: The Crimson Covenant / Re: CC: Corellian Birthright
« Last post by Syren on February 01, 2025, 06:21:51 PM »“And in the sterile light, it’s getting late
Something ugly’s taking shape
There’s a pattern we can’t seem to break
Broken vessels on your face.”
-Say Lou Lou
Corellian Sector
The Asunder
Blackness yields to a harsh and blinding brightness as he slowly opens his eyes.
Jedi Donovan Atrii groans, squinting momentarily as the room shifts into focus. Lots of white surfaces and clean lines surround him. His throat is hoarse and dry, but he manages a sound that is passably human as a figure comes into view. As his eyes adjust, he settles and smiles.
“Welcome back,” Circe Prescott says. “You had us worried.”
Her short-cropped, bright blonde hair frames her face perfectly – part of the physical transformation into Octavia Valles to conceal her identity after the bombing. Upkeep and maintenance of being someone else entirely. He and Circe are long believed dead but have adapted well to their new lives and looks. Better than he imagined at the time. It allowed them to continue their work in service of a greater good, something important to both of them. His buzz cut, which he has faithfully maintained, suits him well. She touches his arm softly, stirring him from his thoughts.
“How are you feeling?”
“Wrecked, to be honest,” he croaks weakly.
“Do you know where you are?”
"The ship."
“That’s right. In the medical bay. You were injured. Do you remember how?”
There is a ripple across his features as the events begin to untangle themselves in his mind. They were on patrol throughout the system, something he had been charged with for years. A peaceful existence out of the way, part of the neblous Project Sucellus that Veritaas oversaw. Kept too many people from asking questions they would just as soon avoid. The refugees joined them on Corellia, a dangerous prospect given their position – and they were betrayed from within. He brought one of them back here…and then she turned on him, snapped in an instant.
“Sirona. Is she…?”
Circe nods gravely, “Gone, yes. I’m so sorry.”
He grinds his teeth and focuses his breathing. The fight floods back to him. The way she moved. So much aggression. How the unnatural light in her eyes glinted and went out. He tries to move but finds it difficult to do so.
“Take it easy. You are not out of the woods yet.”
Before he dares to ask, another figure enters the bay, brushing past the medical droid standing nearby. Riley Patten holsters his weapon and flashes a sideways grin.
“Good. You’re up. Ship is clear and we’re on course to return to Corellia.”
“What?” Donovan protests. “No, we can stay on patrol. With everything going on, it will draw too much attention. The High Commander needs more time.”
Riley looks uneasily at Circe who sighs before addressing him calmly.
“You may not feel very much now but do not let that fool you. The shoulder wound is clean and will heal in time but the damage to your leg is extensive. The saber cut deep. You will need more specialized care than the droids can provide on the ship in order to save it.”
“Save…it?
“Yes. I need you to focus, Donovan. What happened with Sirona?”
He manages to subdue a rising panic by keeping his eyes trained on Circe’s face. Her expression is warm and encouraging, which helps.
“She attacked me after I told her what happened with the others.”
“Not quite the reaction I would expect from that news. Do you know why?”
“She said she felt something – someone - on Centerpoint before it was destroyed. It…affected her physically, mentally. She was in anguish, her head filled with voices, telling her someone had come to let the darkness out.”
“Ominous much?”
Circe mulls over the concept, “Darkness. Are we talking an energy source, a presence, an object?”
“I am not sure. She claimed it had always been there. Before the station. Before everything.”
“Before the station? How can that be?” asks Riley.
“It’s creation and existence are somewhat of a technological marvel. Centerpoint Station was allegedly built by the Celestials, as the tales go. One of many impressive feats throughout the galaxy. Long before it became what it is now.”
“That could indicate intention, ancient as it may be. Maybe they put the darkness there.”
“Possibly. Sirona claimed this person, a woman, came to let the darkness out.”
Circe sighs, “And now there is no way to substantiate anything.”
“Convenient.”
“Or a cover up. Even though the Republic had been crawling around that place for years, they seemingly never found whatever it was. Otherwise, we’d have heard about it in the form of an accusation. Their reports did indicate someone was there and it seems foolish to then destroy something so completely if she had not retrieved what she came for. I am inclined to believe she succeeded."
“Troubling, for sure. Mysterious darkness aside, that still does not explain the attack. Why would she turn on you?”
Donovan glances down, working through the memories of the interaction. How his suspicion was raised and given depth by her stoic reaction and dismissal. He takes an extended exhale before continuing.
“Sirona said it was madness, all the lives lost calling out to her. I did not hear or feel anything other than the typical uneasiness when traveling close to Centerpoint. This psychic attack seemed to impact only her. She claimed the woman told her to turn on me. Told her to – if I remember correctly – stop me from trying to take what was rightfully hers.”
Rightfully hers.
A shiver of dread slips down Riley’s spine.
Circe crosses her arms, “Do you have any idea what that means?”
“No, but she referenced this woman as a goddess and said she would soon reign. I think she was targeted.”
"Did you hear a phrase you didn't recognize? Something in another language?"
"No, why?"
"Veritaas said a phrase triggered Doctor Cross. According to him, her behavior flipped like a switch."
“If not a trigger, do you believe this entity or person was controlling her?”
“She said the woman was willing her actions, that she was controlling everything. However, the ability to override someone’s will completely, even with a mastery of the Force, is complicated. One can influence, and suggest, but ultimately the person in question would still be able to choose. Sustaining it would be nearly impossible although we know it has been done in the past. This was something different. She seemed...consumed at times, caught in a thrall that overcame her will entirely. I’ve never seen anything like it before.”
“I do not like the implications here.”
Donovan laughs shakily, “A Force user so powerful they can bend the will of others? No kidding. If the Republic discovers this, it will only serve to harden their resolve since it treads too close to Janessa Kain's trial on Chandaar not to mention what they are saying now about her and the death of the Republic President. Then there is what happened to you. They would present it as further proof that we are dangerous.”
“I think we are past coincidence at this point. These are patterns.”
“There is something else. Something Sirona said to me right before…before she…”
“Which was?” she asks, fingers curling into his hand. "It's okay. You are safe now."
He swallows hard, grimacing as he meets her eyes, “She asked if I thought Demaris would be safe with one of The Four.”
“On it,” says Riley, stepping away and grabbing his com.
Circe smiles down at him as the medical droid administers more medication. He begins to drift with the lingering pain melting away.
“Rest now. We will be in Coronet soon.”
She steps aside and joins Riley near the doorway. He clicks off the device, looking agitated.
“What’s wrong? Can’t reach her?”
“No, and that worries me.”
“We can try again when we land. The Asunder has been on patrol for years and you checked the logs. It's due for maintenance which is more than adequate cover for its presence here. The medical situation may be trickier but I am certain Director Veritaas can assist with that.”
“Speaking of tricky, there is a dead Force sensitive Twi’lek on board this ship.”
“There is a deceased Twi’lek on board, yes, but very few know she was Force sensitive. Sirona does not appear in any Corellian records but I see where you are going with this. She may be flagged in Republic systems and linked to the F.U.R.A.. so we need to lean on our allies. We’ll sort it out but, for now, let’s make sure Jedi Atrii gets the care he needs.”
Riley Patten’s jaw is still tightly clenched which gives her a nervous pause. Circe narrows her eyes at him.
“What is it? What are you not telling me?”
His mind replays the conversation with Aunt Mara on the cliffs. All the things it revealed.
“I think I know who the woman is and what she wants.”
-TBC
Something ugly’s taking shape
There’s a pattern we can’t seem to break
Broken vessels on your face.”
-Say Lou Lou
Corellian Sector
The Asunder
Blackness yields to a harsh and blinding brightness as he slowly opens his eyes.
Jedi Donovan Atrii groans, squinting momentarily as the room shifts into focus. Lots of white surfaces and clean lines surround him. His throat is hoarse and dry, but he manages a sound that is passably human as a figure comes into view. As his eyes adjust, he settles and smiles.
“Welcome back,” Circe Prescott says. “You had us worried.”
Her short-cropped, bright blonde hair frames her face perfectly – part of the physical transformation into Octavia Valles to conceal her identity after the bombing. Upkeep and maintenance of being someone else entirely. He and Circe are long believed dead but have adapted well to their new lives and looks. Better than he imagined at the time. It allowed them to continue their work in service of a greater good, something important to both of them. His buzz cut, which he has faithfully maintained, suits him well. She touches his arm softly, stirring him from his thoughts.
“How are you feeling?”
“Wrecked, to be honest,” he croaks weakly.
“Do you know where you are?”
"The ship."
“That’s right. In the medical bay. You were injured. Do you remember how?”
There is a ripple across his features as the events begin to untangle themselves in his mind. They were on patrol throughout the system, something he had been charged with for years. A peaceful existence out of the way, part of the neblous Project Sucellus that Veritaas oversaw. Kept too many people from asking questions they would just as soon avoid. The refugees joined them on Corellia, a dangerous prospect given their position – and they were betrayed from within. He brought one of them back here…and then she turned on him, snapped in an instant.
“Sirona. Is she…?”
Circe nods gravely, “Gone, yes. I’m so sorry.”
He grinds his teeth and focuses his breathing. The fight floods back to him. The way she moved. So much aggression. How the unnatural light in her eyes glinted and went out. He tries to move but finds it difficult to do so.
“Take it easy. You are not out of the woods yet.”
Before he dares to ask, another figure enters the bay, brushing past the medical droid standing nearby. Riley Patten holsters his weapon and flashes a sideways grin.
“Good. You’re up. Ship is clear and we’re on course to return to Corellia.”
“What?” Donovan protests. “No, we can stay on patrol. With everything going on, it will draw too much attention. The High Commander needs more time.”
Riley looks uneasily at Circe who sighs before addressing him calmly.
“You may not feel very much now but do not let that fool you. The shoulder wound is clean and will heal in time but the damage to your leg is extensive. The saber cut deep. You will need more specialized care than the droids can provide on the ship in order to save it.”
“Save…it?
“Yes. I need you to focus, Donovan. What happened with Sirona?”
He manages to subdue a rising panic by keeping his eyes trained on Circe’s face. Her expression is warm and encouraging, which helps.
“She attacked me after I told her what happened with the others.”
“Not quite the reaction I would expect from that news. Do you know why?”
“She said she felt something – someone - on Centerpoint before it was destroyed. It…affected her physically, mentally. She was in anguish, her head filled with voices, telling her someone had come to let the darkness out.”
“Ominous much?”
Circe mulls over the concept, “Darkness. Are we talking an energy source, a presence, an object?”
“I am not sure. She claimed it had always been there. Before the station. Before everything.”
“Before the station? How can that be?” asks Riley.
“It’s creation and existence are somewhat of a technological marvel. Centerpoint Station was allegedly built by the Celestials, as the tales go. One of many impressive feats throughout the galaxy. Long before it became what it is now.”
“That could indicate intention, ancient as it may be. Maybe they put the darkness there.”
“Possibly. Sirona claimed this person, a woman, came to let the darkness out.”
Circe sighs, “And now there is no way to substantiate anything.”
“Convenient.”
“Or a cover up. Even though the Republic had been crawling around that place for years, they seemingly never found whatever it was. Otherwise, we’d have heard about it in the form of an accusation. Their reports did indicate someone was there and it seems foolish to then destroy something so completely if she had not retrieved what she came for. I am inclined to believe she succeeded."
“Troubling, for sure. Mysterious darkness aside, that still does not explain the attack. Why would she turn on you?”
Donovan glances down, working through the memories of the interaction. How his suspicion was raised and given depth by her stoic reaction and dismissal. He takes an extended exhale before continuing.
“Sirona said it was madness, all the lives lost calling out to her. I did not hear or feel anything other than the typical uneasiness when traveling close to Centerpoint. This psychic attack seemed to impact only her. She claimed the woman told her to turn on me. Told her to – if I remember correctly – stop me from trying to take what was rightfully hers.”
Rightfully hers.
A shiver of dread slips down Riley’s spine.
Circe crosses her arms, “Do you have any idea what that means?”
“No, but she referenced this woman as a goddess and said she would soon reign. I think she was targeted.”
"Did you hear a phrase you didn't recognize? Something in another language?"
"No, why?"
"Veritaas said a phrase triggered Doctor Cross. According to him, her behavior flipped like a switch."
“If not a trigger, do you believe this entity or person was controlling her?”
“She said the woman was willing her actions, that she was controlling everything. However, the ability to override someone’s will completely, even with a mastery of the Force, is complicated. One can influence, and suggest, but ultimately the person in question would still be able to choose. Sustaining it would be nearly impossible although we know it has been done in the past. This was something different. She seemed...consumed at times, caught in a thrall that overcame her will entirely. I’ve never seen anything like it before.”
“I do not like the implications here.”
Donovan laughs shakily, “A Force user so powerful they can bend the will of others? No kidding. If the Republic discovers this, it will only serve to harden their resolve since it treads too close to Janessa Kain's trial on Chandaar not to mention what they are saying now about her and the death of the Republic President. Then there is what happened to you. They would present it as further proof that we are dangerous.”
“I think we are past coincidence at this point. These are patterns.”
“There is something else. Something Sirona said to me right before…before she…”
“Which was?” she asks, fingers curling into his hand. "It's okay. You are safe now."
He swallows hard, grimacing as he meets her eyes, “She asked if I thought Demaris would be safe with one of The Four.”
“On it,” says Riley, stepping away and grabbing his com.
Circe smiles down at him as the medical droid administers more medication. He begins to drift with the lingering pain melting away.
“Rest now. We will be in Coronet soon.”
She steps aside and joins Riley near the doorway. He clicks off the device, looking agitated.
“What’s wrong? Can’t reach her?”
“No, and that worries me.”
“We can try again when we land. The Asunder has been on patrol for years and you checked the logs. It's due for maintenance which is more than adequate cover for its presence here. The medical situation may be trickier but I am certain Director Veritaas can assist with that.”
“Speaking of tricky, there is a dead Force sensitive Twi’lek on board this ship.”
“There is a deceased Twi’lek on board, yes, but very few know she was Force sensitive. Sirona does not appear in any Corellian records but I see where you are going with this. She may be flagged in Republic systems and linked to the F.U.R.A.. so we need to lean on our allies. We’ll sort it out but, for now, let’s make sure Jedi Atrii gets the care he needs.”
Riley Patten’s jaw is still tightly clenched which gives her a nervous pause. Circe narrows her eyes at him.
“What is it? What are you not telling me?”
His mind replays the conversation with Aunt Mara on the cliffs. All the things it revealed.
“I think I know who the woman is and what she wants.”
-TBC
45
Star Wars: The Crimson Covenant / Re: CC: Corellian Birthright
« Last post by Medivh on January 30, 2025, 01:35:37 PM »Corellian Sector: Deep Space
The Republic fleet was still deeply involved in their battle with the Corellian ships; the Corellians in turn were striking hard at disabling the Republic ships.
Disabling, but not destroying.
That was key to the plan. Shields, engines, hyperdrives, weapons - all were viable targets. But they were doing their very best to not destroy any ship, not with so many lives on board. Ion cannons were helpful in that process, and multiple Republic capital ships had already gone dark. Starfighters were the trickiest part, as they could only take a few hits. It was hard to disable one without obliterating it. But modified corelian starfighters along with classic Y-Wings were up to the job, and so close to the Corellian sector, the Corellians had a larger force to work with.
The Republic was growing desperate as their options dwindled, their attacks more sporadic as they regrouped to form a more strategic offensive. And still, they were clueless. By all accounts, it appeared that the Corellians were trying to just take back this territory. No one was paying attention to the tugs that had slipped into the periphery of the battle.
Even when the gravity well nets all went inactive, The only noticeable sign onboard most ships was a few changes in sensor readings, and mid-battle, the fact there was less gravity seemed to be the least consequential detail.
For most.
One analyst aboard the lead Republic ship noticed it, how they suddenly went offline, before flagging down his supervisor.
"Sir ... it appears the nets are not working"
"Ensign, we are in the middle of a fight. Why are you looking at a mechanical malfunction?"
"I don't think it's a malfunction, sir. They've all gone offline. At the same time."
"All ... every one of the nets?"
"Yes sir. There are no artificial gravity wells in play. And my readings show almost no electrical activity from any of the gravity well nets"
"So that means ... the Corellians are free to leave?"
"Maybe sir. But if that were all ... why are they still fighting?"
It was several minutes of analysis and discussion before the idea went up to a commander who actually had a say in the matter.
"Is there any fighting near the nets themselves?"
"Nothing too close to them, sir. We've had fighters pass them several times, but they are not really in the trajectory of battle"
"Divert a squad of fighters away from the battle to get a closer look at the gravity well nets. Let's see what's causing them to go offline"
But, alas for the Republic, it was too late.
Even as the order as going out, the sensors showed the signatures of multiple jumps to hyperspace. The tugs had successfully disabled the gravity well net platforms, secured them in place. And now, one by one, they were being taken out of the battle.
It was only when they were gone, every single one of them, that there was a hail again from the Corellian command ship.
"This is High Commander Artemis Soldys of the Corellian Sector Defense Force. Once again, we are here to enforce our sovereignty, under both the Republic charter and the intergalactic laws of governance. As you can see, we have at our disposal the capacity to destroy the invading forces. We have chosen not to do that. We demand all non-Corellian vessels leave the system at once. Any non-disabled vehicle should leave now. We will return to you every single soul aboard any disabled ship, assuming you comply with our orders."
The Republic fleet was still deeply involved in their battle with the Corellian ships; the Corellians in turn were striking hard at disabling the Republic ships.
Disabling, but not destroying.
That was key to the plan. Shields, engines, hyperdrives, weapons - all were viable targets. But they were doing their very best to not destroy any ship, not with so many lives on board. Ion cannons were helpful in that process, and multiple Republic capital ships had already gone dark. Starfighters were the trickiest part, as they could only take a few hits. It was hard to disable one without obliterating it. But modified corelian starfighters along with classic Y-Wings were up to the job, and so close to the Corellian sector, the Corellians had a larger force to work with.
The Republic was growing desperate as their options dwindled, their attacks more sporadic as they regrouped to form a more strategic offensive. And still, they were clueless. By all accounts, it appeared that the Corellians were trying to just take back this territory. No one was paying attention to the tugs that had slipped into the periphery of the battle.
Even when the gravity well nets all went inactive, The only noticeable sign onboard most ships was a few changes in sensor readings, and mid-battle, the fact there was less gravity seemed to be the least consequential detail.
For most.
One analyst aboard the lead Republic ship noticed it, how they suddenly went offline, before flagging down his supervisor.
"Sir ... it appears the nets are not working"
"Ensign, we are in the middle of a fight. Why are you looking at a mechanical malfunction?"
"I don't think it's a malfunction, sir. They've all gone offline. At the same time."
"All ... every one of the nets?"
"Yes sir. There are no artificial gravity wells in play. And my readings show almost no electrical activity from any of the gravity well nets"
"So that means ... the Corellians are free to leave?"
"Maybe sir. But if that were all ... why are they still fighting?"
It was several minutes of analysis and discussion before the idea went up to a commander who actually had a say in the matter.
"Is there any fighting near the nets themselves?"
"Nothing too close to them, sir. We've had fighters pass them several times, but they are not really in the trajectory of battle"
"Divert a squad of fighters away from the battle to get a closer look at the gravity well nets. Let's see what's causing them to go offline"
But, alas for the Republic, it was too late.
Even as the order as going out, the sensors showed the signatures of multiple jumps to hyperspace. The tugs had successfully disabled the gravity well net platforms, secured them in place. And now, one by one, they were being taken out of the battle.
It was only when they were gone, every single one of them, that there was a hail again from the Corellian command ship.
"This is High Commander Artemis Soldys of the Corellian Sector Defense Force. Once again, we are here to enforce our sovereignty, under both the Republic charter and the intergalactic laws of governance. As you can see, we have at our disposal the capacity to destroy the invading forces. We have chosen not to do that. We demand all non-Corellian vessels leave the system at once. Any non-disabled vehicle should leave now. We will return to you every single soul aboard any disabled ship, assuming you comply with our orders."
46
OOC Cantina / Re: Skeleton Crew (**Potential Spoilers**)
« Last post by Syren on January 17, 2025, 12:29:35 PM »I really liked this. Too bad it received little fanfare and will likely not be continued. An underrated gem, and one of the better shows - Andor being the best (thus far) and I will die on that hill.
I am actually surprised they took Jod through as a villain - thought for sure he'd be redeemed or at least act on his growing fondness for the kids. Kinda impressed they went for it and really leaned in. A bit sad we didn't get at least a flashback of his origin, despite his brief recap of being found by a Jedi post-Order 66 and watching her die after she showed him a trick or two.
The parents in this show were bonkers clueless and I wonder if this is because of their cush lives and complacency of being protected by the barrier. Not a bad plan, as plans go - hiding within generated storms and only minimal, tightly controlled access. Makes me wonder if they have been doing this since the Old Republic...
..which brings me to my lingering questions. If the Supervisor was a massive droid and an emissary had not visited At Attin in a long time, what era do these people think they are in? Do they even know the Old Republic was replaced by the Empire, which then fell and was replaced by the New Republic? They referenced "the Republic" but the nature of the operation and seeming ambiguity around anything outside the barrier by the planet's inhabitants really made me wonder.
Overall, this was fun and exciting and really got to the core of what Star Wars is about - adventure! Strange though that although both audiences and critics liked it that it did not receive much buzz.
Final thoughts?
I am actually surprised they took Jod through as a villain - thought for sure he'd be redeemed or at least act on his growing fondness for the kids. Kinda impressed they went for it and really leaned in. A bit sad we didn't get at least a flashback of his origin, despite his brief recap of being found by a Jedi post-Order 66 and watching her die after she showed him a trick or two.
The parents in this show were bonkers clueless and I wonder if this is because of their cush lives and complacency of being protected by the barrier. Not a bad plan, as plans go - hiding within generated storms and only minimal, tightly controlled access. Makes me wonder if they have been doing this since the Old Republic...
..which brings me to my lingering questions. If the Supervisor was a massive droid and an emissary had not visited At Attin in a long time, what era do these people think they are in? Do they even know the Old Republic was replaced by the Empire, which then fell and was replaced by the New Republic? They referenced "the Republic" but the nature of the operation and seeming ambiguity around anything outside the barrier by the planet's inhabitants really made me wonder.
Overall, this was fun and exciting and really got to the core of what Star Wars is about - adventure! Strange though that although both audiences and critics liked it that it did not receive much buzz.
Final thoughts?
47
Star Wars: The Crimson Covenant / Re: CC: Corellian Birthright
« Last post by Syren on January 01, 2025, 05:39:59 PM »“Pull me underneath the waves
Devil with a pretty face
She knows - I’ll just smile while she sings me to death.”
-Henry Morris
Corellian Sector
Drall
Nevylinn continues to train with Gemma after Mara departs.
There is an uneasy truce, although the chill would likely never thaw entirely. Nevylinn considers the ideas Mara presented and tries to unfold and detach them from everything she was taught about the sides of the Force. Their meaning and uses. Facts and figures. Tales and tragedies. Gemma may have simmered but there is still so much rage within her. She can feel it, tempered by circumstance but never far from the surface. She is still not certain Masterton could pull off a balance without succumbing to the easy nature of the dark side. It fed on animosity and impulse which she witnessed when they engaged one another in sparring. Gemma has neither forgiven nor forgotten.
Despite her misgivings, she knows that Gemma is entitled to her feelings. She and the others they managed to scrap together had fought their way through and survived—although not without consequence and loss. Nevylinn does not try to contextualize the Jedi’s actions, does not attempt to excuse their absence and guidance, and would not insult her that way. Gemma is not ready or willing to hear it, and she would need to win back that trust slowly if it could be won at all.
For her part, Gemma trains diligently, pushing further through recovery. The process began as an agonizing lesson but, with time, treatment, and consistent movement, she regained confidence in her abilities once more. The sparring acts as a mechanism of release which she desperately needs. Being sidelined after the betrayal and injury left her reeling but she has come to see it as an opportunity. She hones her abilities to strengthen her attacks and defenses. The routine feels good despite knowing that somewhere in these lessons lies a hope she would let go of her anger and reconstruct the illusion of what she thought the Jedi might be.
During their off time, they go their separate ways. Nevylinn maintains a disciplined meditation routine and ponders the Jedi’s future in the shifting galactic events. They went from revered to reviled and now garner more sympathy across various systems due to the Republic’s ruthless enforcement of their laws. She hoped they would again prove themselves as the defenders of peace. She recognizes the need to be more forthcoming and transparent to avoid suspicion gaining the kind of momentum that ousted them from Chandaar and public trust.
Gemma spends time wandering through the dense forests, finding a fleeting respite in the spectacular beauty of nature. She shares stories with the ever-curious Drall who presses her about her perspective, especially about what they had studied about her half-sister, Melanie. Those tales made the elder Masterton seem either a strident enforcer or a misguided zealot – depending on how it was told. Having communed with Melanie through the veil of the beyond, Gemma knows she was neither of those things. For all her conviction and strength, Melanie Masterton was just as much a victim of the prophecy as a player. Manipulated like all the others into actions she may not have otherwise taken. And the worst part is that she only knew slaying Karen doomed any that followed after she had fallen. A bitter pill, no doubt. She finds sharing her thoughts with the Drall a kind of release although careful to avoid details of their actual contingency. She reinforces the sentiment that no matter how this all shakes out, they will return to right these wrongs. Restore order and peace.
They hang on her every word.
Most evenings, she spends time chatting with Riley but has not heard from him in a day or so. Best to allow him some space as well. He has responsibilities of his own, a public figure and keeper of peace on Corellia. A noble mission but one they both know would not last, at least not in this cycle. The fact that he presses on is part of why she loves him as much as she does. His heart holds more capacity for empathy and understanding. At night, she dreams of their wedding but inevitably feels the ache of loss that her parents would not be there to celebrate with them. No mother to dote on her, no father to give her away. Even her brother would likely miss out to remain a fixture of power in the Corporate Sector while Dahlia, family no matter how she chooses to look at it, is hiding out somewhere scheming. Gemma knows the feeling. She is hiding and scheming too. In these ways, they are not all that different.
They also share a common enemy in Adubell. So long as Dahlia stayed alive long enough for them to bring her down, they would be able to execute their vow to end the prophecy once and for all. She wonders how evil Dahlia would really be on the throne, given Mara’s context of no one being entirely dark or light. As she recalled to them, Karen Winton was not as dark as they were led to believe. She and Mara stopped Alexander’s plot despite the then-unknown Adubell factor. That may mean, she considers dimly, that Alexia too was a victim and driven to those terrible acts by the ambitious manipulations of her father. Sacrifice one daughter so the other could rule. If only they had known, they may have had a chance.
Back in the training room, Nevylinn suggests they try something new.
She asks Gemma to draw on her negative emotions in service of good. To stay in the moment as she wades through that darkness. As dubious as Mara’s claims may seem, she would test the theory. In practice, this manifests as more aggression in their sparring, hedging the line between defender and destroyer. She decides to push, needing Gemma to react and face the dark feelings before she can control them with the light. Nevylinn goads her with being injured, and isolated – playing on her vanity and abandonment triggers. She infers attachment to Riley as a liability, that their union is a colossal mistake.
It goes too far.
Nevylinn watches in horror as an obsidian swirl clouds her blue eyes, teetering on the ledge, as their sabers clash more ferociously. Gemma struggles against it, at first, but the Jedi’s words are like rock against flint. The sparks shower down upon the kindling of her soul, and she lashes out. The Force seems to crystalize around her before pulsing outward. Nevylinn is thrown back, but Gemma advances and batters her down. It takes everything she has to keep the glowing blade from piercing her skin.
“Gemma-”
The strikes keep coming. Nevylinn is backed into the corner.
“Gemma, stop!”
She pauses mid-strike, teeth ground together, as the Jedi holds her weapon out in defense. Her eyes clear and she gasps. The pool of darkness is far deeper than she realized.
“Nevylinn, I-I’m sorry…I…”
Catching her breath, she rises and gently guides Gemma’s hand down. They deactivate their weapons and stand facing one another. She does not outwardly show her fear but what Nevylinn saw terrifies her to the core. Mara does not recognize the risk. How could she? The balance is more easily struck without the mercurial motivations of human emotion. Far more challenging for people. So easy to slide once one is on the path – a path Gemma has already started down.
“I know. It is not depth or skill you lack; it is control. Tapping into those feelings is a start but exerting power over them takes practice.”
“You do not believe it can be done.”
She chooses her words carefully, “I have not experienced anything that would indicate a successful outcome. However, I will admit there are…stories. Legends, mostly. Those who claimed to walk between both sides.”
“That is not what I meant. You do not think I can do it.”
“You do not have the discipline.”
“And you do not have the courage. Keeping those feelings bottled up serves no one. I lost control, I understand that, but at least I am willing to explore that side of myself. Are you?”
“You do not know me, Gemma Masterton.”
“Dahlia may not be my twin, but she fell to the dark side nonetheless. We both have sisters who chose a path of destruction over one of peace. Does it make us better if we believe in an outcome that will likely never happen? They always have the advantage of playing with the fully realized versions of themselves. What do we have?”
“Hope.”
“It’s not enough, and you know it. To best Adubell and the Voss-Ra, I need the ability to draw from all aspects of myself. I need your help.”
“Your actions and behaviors do not inspire much trust.”
“No one said we must agree or even like each other. We have a common goal. Help me help us.”
Nevylinn appraises her warily. Although she knows the woman who was once her sister has long since been destroyed, there is a dull sting of regret she desperately wishes did not exist. She could not be saved and never wished to be. Adubell is a threat, as are the Voss-Ra and their long-held plans. That is something they can agree on.
“Alright, Gemma. Let us try.”
And so, they begin again - a reluctant partnership at best but one that aims to end the oppressive specter of the prophecy. There is one thought she cannot seem to shake.
Where Mara sees an advantage, Nevylinn sees only danger.
-TBC
Devil with a pretty face
She knows - I’ll just smile while she sings me to death.”
-Henry Morris
Corellian Sector
Drall
Nevylinn continues to train with Gemma after Mara departs.
There is an uneasy truce, although the chill would likely never thaw entirely. Nevylinn considers the ideas Mara presented and tries to unfold and detach them from everything she was taught about the sides of the Force. Their meaning and uses. Facts and figures. Tales and tragedies. Gemma may have simmered but there is still so much rage within her. She can feel it, tempered by circumstance but never far from the surface. She is still not certain Masterton could pull off a balance without succumbing to the easy nature of the dark side. It fed on animosity and impulse which she witnessed when they engaged one another in sparring. Gemma has neither forgiven nor forgotten.
Despite her misgivings, she knows that Gemma is entitled to her feelings. She and the others they managed to scrap together had fought their way through and survived—although not without consequence and loss. Nevylinn does not try to contextualize the Jedi’s actions, does not attempt to excuse their absence and guidance, and would not insult her that way. Gemma is not ready or willing to hear it, and she would need to win back that trust slowly if it could be won at all.
For her part, Gemma trains diligently, pushing further through recovery. The process began as an agonizing lesson but, with time, treatment, and consistent movement, she regained confidence in her abilities once more. The sparring acts as a mechanism of release which she desperately needs. Being sidelined after the betrayal and injury left her reeling but she has come to see it as an opportunity. She hones her abilities to strengthen her attacks and defenses. The routine feels good despite knowing that somewhere in these lessons lies a hope she would let go of her anger and reconstruct the illusion of what she thought the Jedi might be.
During their off time, they go their separate ways. Nevylinn maintains a disciplined meditation routine and ponders the Jedi’s future in the shifting galactic events. They went from revered to reviled and now garner more sympathy across various systems due to the Republic’s ruthless enforcement of their laws. She hoped they would again prove themselves as the defenders of peace. She recognizes the need to be more forthcoming and transparent to avoid suspicion gaining the kind of momentum that ousted them from Chandaar and public trust.
Gemma spends time wandering through the dense forests, finding a fleeting respite in the spectacular beauty of nature. She shares stories with the ever-curious Drall who presses her about her perspective, especially about what they had studied about her half-sister, Melanie. Those tales made the elder Masterton seem either a strident enforcer or a misguided zealot – depending on how it was told. Having communed with Melanie through the veil of the beyond, Gemma knows she was neither of those things. For all her conviction and strength, Melanie Masterton was just as much a victim of the prophecy as a player. Manipulated like all the others into actions she may not have otherwise taken. And the worst part is that she only knew slaying Karen doomed any that followed after she had fallen. A bitter pill, no doubt. She finds sharing her thoughts with the Drall a kind of release although careful to avoid details of their actual contingency. She reinforces the sentiment that no matter how this all shakes out, they will return to right these wrongs. Restore order and peace.
They hang on her every word.
Most evenings, she spends time chatting with Riley but has not heard from him in a day or so. Best to allow him some space as well. He has responsibilities of his own, a public figure and keeper of peace on Corellia. A noble mission but one they both know would not last, at least not in this cycle. The fact that he presses on is part of why she loves him as much as she does. His heart holds more capacity for empathy and understanding. At night, she dreams of their wedding but inevitably feels the ache of loss that her parents would not be there to celebrate with them. No mother to dote on her, no father to give her away. Even her brother would likely miss out to remain a fixture of power in the Corporate Sector while Dahlia, family no matter how she chooses to look at it, is hiding out somewhere scheming. Gemma knows the feeling. She is hiding and scheming too. In these ways, they are not all that different.
They also share a common enemy in Adubell. So long as Dahlia stayed alive long enough for them to bring her down, they would be able to execute their vow to end the prophecy once and for all. She wonders how evil Dahlia would really be on the throne, given Mara’s context of no one being entirely dark or light. As she recalled to them, Karen Winton was not as dark as they were led to believe. She and Mara stopped Alexander’s plot despite the then-unknown Adubell factor. That may mean, she considers dimly, that Alexia too was a victim and driven to those terrible acts by the ambitious manipulations of her father. Sacrifice one daughter so the other could rule. If only they had known, they may have had a chance.
Back in the training room, Nevylinn suggests they try something new.
She asks Gemma to draw on her negative emotions in service of good. To stay in the moment as she wades through that darkness. As dubious as Mara’s claims may seem, she would test the theory. In practice, this manifests as more aggression in their sparring, hedging the line between defender and destroyer. She decides to push, needing Gemma to react and face the dark feelings before she can control them with the light. Nevylinn goads her with being injured, and isolated – playing on her vanity and abandonment triggers. She infers attachment to Riley as a liability, that their union is a colossal mistake.
It goes too far.
Nevylinn watches in horror as an obsidian swirl clouds her blue eyes, teetering on the ledge, as their sabers clash more ferociously. Gemma struggles against it, at first, but the Jedi’s words are like rock against flint. The sparks shower down upon the kindling of her soul, and she lashes out. The Force seems to crystalize around her before pulsing outward. Nevylinn is thrown back, but Gemma advances and batters her down. It takes everything she has to keep the glowing blade from piercing her skin.
“Gemma-”
The strikes keep coming. Nevylinn is backed into the corner.
“Gemma, stop!”
She pauses mid-strike, teeth ground together, as the Jedi holds her weapon out in defense. Her eyes clear and she gasps. The pool of darkness is far deeper than she realized.
“Nevylinn, I-I’m sorry…I…”
Catching her breath, she rises and gently guides Gemma’s hand down. They deactivate their weapons and stand facing one another. She does not outwardly show her fear but what Nevylinn saw terrifies her to the core. Mara does not recognize the risk. How could she? The balance is more easily struck without the mercurial motivations of human emotion. Far more challenging for people. So easy to slide once one is on the path – a path Gemma has already started down.
“I know. It is not depth or skill you lack; it is control. Tapping into those feelings is a start but exerting power over them takes practice.”
“You do not believe it can be done.”
She chooses her words carefully, “I have not experienced anything that would indicate a successful outcome. However, I will admit there are…stories. Legends, mostly. Those who claimed to walk between both sides.”
“That is not what I meant. You do not think I can do it.”
“You do not have the discipline.”
“And you do not have the courage. Keeping those feelings bottled up serves no one. I lost control, I understand that, but at least I am willing to explore that side of myself. Are you?”
“You do not know me, Gemma Masterton.”
“Dahlia may not be my twin, but she fell to the dark side nonetheless. We both have sisters who chose a path of destruction over one of peace. Does it make us better if we believe in an outcome that will likely never happen? They always have the advantage of playing with the fully realized versions of themselves. What do we have?”
“Hope.”
“It’s not enough, and you know it. To best Adubell and the Voss-Ra, I need the ability to draw from all aspects of myself. I need your help.”
“Your actions and behaviors do not inspire much trust.”
“No one said we must agree or even like each other. We have a common goal. Help me help us.”
Nevylinn appraises her warily. Although she knows the woman who was once her sister has long since been destroyed, there is a dull sting of regret she desperately wishes did not exist. She could not be saved and never wished to be. Adubell is a threat, as are the Voss-Ra and their long-held plans. That is something they can agree on.
“Alright, Gemma. Let us try.”
And so, they begin again - a reluctant partnership at best but one that aims to end the oppressive specter of the prophecy. There is one thought she cannot seem to shake.
Where Mara sees an advantage, Nevylinn sees only danger.
-TBC
48
OOC Cantina / Re: Skeleton Crew (**Potential Spoilers**)
« Last post by SWSF Eidolon on December 29, 2024, 08:52:01 PM »The society on At Attin gave me the whole surface utopia but beneath a secret vibe from beginning. What is the Great Work and how does that relate to their minting of OR credits? I had thought they were cut off entirely with no knowledge of the fall of the OR or the Empire or Galactic Civil War. Assume the Supervisor knows something wild has been going on outside the barrier all these years and uses the droids and a lie to keep the population unwitting. Prob rewatch through 5 tomorrow day time in prep for Ep 6 at 12:01am (assuming it is Tues on the nose it unlocks..)
You suggest the Jod perhaps is an agent witting or un of the IR hunt for financial backing? That is interesting.. it would be a cool angle and makes great sense but a hard knock for the kids characters and the lighter fun story we've gotten so far.
Also hoping Jod doesn't turn out to be entirely Sith. His personality is too colorful to be darkside entirely and a sith being caught up in a pirate brig for mutiny seems goofy?
49
OOC Cantina / Re: Skeleton Crew (**Potential Spoilers**)
« Last post by Syren on December 29, 2024, 04:45:14 PM »I did see that re: Sith language. Wondering if some of these pirates were Sith hiding in plain sight. Or people who began training - Jod is at least familiar with the Jedi teachings in the pep talk to Wim. Quotes Qui-Gon straight up, or at least those that believed as he did. The kiddos continue to impress in terms of characters. There is the bravado sense of imagination and adventure now tempered with the realities of life outside the barrier - much scarier up close than in stories or pretend scenarios with friends. The parents plotting makes them seem naive like they are also unprepared for anything more serious than an audit. Their relative protection has made them complacent, but the Supervisor's inactivity makes more sense now. Missing kids = bad but they don't know how to find their way back. Attempts to signal outside the barrier could compromise them so their "great work" and secrecy vs a few missing kids could be seen as an acceptable loss. I feel like the parents will fumble this which I suppose may be the point.
I was right about At Attin being a mint world. The last of the jewels of the Republic. Explains why it is hidden the way it is and why others would search for it. But the credits they use are not current which makes them more valuable. Why would a world continue to create and use currency different from what the Republic/other worlds are currently using? How cut off are they?
Not loving that Jod feels he could get more through plundering their world instead of safely returning the kids but there needs to be a bit of drama. Some stakes. If he is a Sith or has Sith leanings then there could be darker undertones in terms of how the Remnant/New Order was funded in secret - seizing a hidden mint world would do it.
I was right about At Attin being a mint world. The last of the jewels of the Republic. Explains why it is hidden the way it is and why others would search for it. But the credits they use are not current which makes them more valuable. Why would a world continue to create and use currency different from what the Republic/other worlds are currently using? How cut off are they?
Not loving that Jod feels he could get more through plundering their world instead of safely returning the kids but there needs to be a bit of drama. Some stakes. If he is a Sith or has Sith leanings then there could be darker undertones in terms of how the Remnant/New Order was funded in secret - seizing a hidden mint world would do it.
50
OOC Cantina / Re: Skeleton Crew (**Potential Spoilers**)
« Last post by SWSF Eidolon on December 29, 2024, 01:20:44 PM »It has been fun and I way enjoy the historical pirate focus.
Funny that the girl filling in Data's role/gadget kid from Goonies has a Data from ST TNG tech visor.
Saw article earlier pointing out- The script Jod reads on the wall is the Old Tongue / ur-Kittat. the ancient language of the sith. Seeming to solidify the mounting evidence of his dark nature but also hinting at a deeper Sith connection to the story.
It also noted the passing similarity between Rennod's sigil and the ur-Kittat alphabet
Funny that the girl filling in Data's role/gadget kid from Goonies has a Data from ST TNG tech visor.
Saw article earlier pointing out- The script Jod reads on the wall is the Old Tongue / ur-Kittat. the ancient language of the sith. Seeming to solidify the mounting evidence of his dark nature but also hinting at a deeper Sith connection to the story.
It also noted the passing similarity between Rennod's sigil and the ur-Kittat alphabet