|
|
Post by Spectres of Midnight on Jan 10, 2019 2:02:22 GMT -8
It has been a long time coming, their first year’s end. And after all the hard work, they finally made it. For a little less than six months, they had learned nothing new since learning to use the saberstaff and stepping up to the use of Force Wave. It had been a little discouraging but unlike the first four months, Gavin discusses with them his plans, telling them that for The remaining up to year’s end, he wanted them to focus on what he had taught them, to hone their lessons so that they wouldn’t need to keep spreading out their focus and what they learned so heavily. By the end of the year, if they proved they had become at least skilled at an average level in all they learned, they’d move forward and only be expected to keep practicing on their own time. That promise was enough to have them all push harder, becoming more than averagely skilled.
And here they were, being told at how well they were doing and that after their break, they’d move forward. The group celebrated a bit before heading out after Gavin dismissed then.
|
|
Gavin Phoenix
The Dark Jedi Order
"See first with your mind, then with your eyes, and finally with your body"
Posts: 1,144
Affiliation: The Dark Jedi Order
Traffic Light: Green
|
Post by Gavin Phoenix on Jan 12, 2019 8:01:17 GMT -8
Gavin led the students back to the training area, listening to what had happened. He should have expected something like this to happen at some point. No matter the rules, no matter the vision, the stigma of the Sith thrived in some form. And with him leading this group, it was only natural that his students would be the targets of the superiority of others. The only real surprising part was the fact it took this long to show.
Having first led the girls back into the area, they all turned to see a second Gavin bring Duvrax and Krokaa in, the illusion fading as the walked in the area. All the students seemed a little bit surprised, both at the skill Gavin had demonstrated and the fact that another pair was there as well. Taking a deep breath, he looked at them "Good work at keeping yourselves from becoming victims. However, I feel we may be having issues soon. I don't blame any of you, but from here on, don't say anything. Just let me speak." The students seemed a bit confused at what he said but nodded. They did have enough mind to know that trouble was heading their way and it was reassuring to know that Gavin was on their side.
Sure enough, thirty minutes passed before other entered the area. There were six in total. Four of them were the students that created the problem and two older people, no doubt their masters. None too happy, they made their way quickly over to Gavin upon seeing him, anger clearly radiating from each their presence. Moving up to meet them, Gavin spoke with a casual tone as if nothing was happening "Master Tahl, Master Ithria, a pleasure to see you. What can I do for you?"
Stepping up first, a Human male spoke out.
"Cut the act. You know exactly why we're here. We're here to take your students in for punishment."
The female Twi'lek behind him followed up to explain, not wanting to deal with Gavin's casual talk, feeling he was to thick in the head anyway to ever catch on anyway.
"Your students attacked ours. For that, they will be beaten and more than likely killed for their actions."
Gavin looked between the two, his face hard. But it didn;t last long before a smirk formed across his face and he broke out into laughter. All around him, including his own students, took a step back and looked at him wondering. Not once had he laughed or acted as he did now. Looking back, he looked to them, taking on a cocky and condescending tone. "Really, now? Well, as far as I know, it was your students that attacked mine, yet I didn't seek you out, did I? I would have just told them to deal with it and move along. Everything's over with no real damage. But here we are, your students ran back to you, crying like babies because something didn't go their way. And let's think about that for a moment? Your students, each who have been training here for at least four years, were so hurt and bent out of shape because of a couple students with but a single year of training? Sounds like someone has been going soft on them." Turning to face his students, he gave them a wink. If they wanted to play this kind of game, he would most certainly play. However, it was unlikely they'd like where it was going. "But let's be honest, shall we? This isn't about them. This is all about me. Ever since I showed up and began teaching, none of you have thought too well about me. I'm not Sith or even a Dark Jedi, yet I teach students freely in a manner that looks pathetic. Am I right? I'm that bad fruit that needs to be cut for the betterment of the tree, right? Even the students see and feel that way. Whether they did this because they felt my students were weak and easy prey or they followed your orders in an attempt to draw me out or show just how much of a mistake having me here is, doesn't matter. This is where we are and it's about me. So what say you to a little challenge, hmm? Let us avoid any uncivility and resolve this problem. No need to get the Headmaster involved, no need to cause a big stink about it. Cut and dry terms. In two days, we'll meet here. Your fours students against mine. The only condition is that no one gets killed and we use training sabers. After all, if I'm the problem, my students are defeated but can be distributed to other instructors for proper training and I leave the Blackguard, never to return. If they win, your students and yourselves work on improving yourselves and your methods. The only thing lost is pride. So what say you? Surely none of you are scared. I mean, why should you be? You're so much better, right?" There were a few moments of silence as the two masters looked between each other. Finally, they nodded in agreement and departed the training area.
Looking back at his students, he gave a sigh. "Well, that's that. In two days, each of you will be facing off with one of them. Not really what we wanted but, it was the best option. Now listen to me. Focus yourselves, meditate, and prepare. But above all, believe in yourselves and your training. You are stronger than you all know. Now is the time to show them all." He then motioned for them to head out. He could sense the tension, knowing that they nod had t truly use that knowledge they had gained. It was earlier than expected, but he did believe in them. He was certain they could prevail. Perhaps now was the time for them to see it, just as it was for the whole academy.
|
|
Gavin Phoenix
The Dark Jedi Order
"See first with your mind, then with your eyes, and finally with your body"
Posts: 1,144
Affiliation: The Dark Jedi Order
Traffic Light: Green
|
Post by Gavin Phoenix on Jan 13, 2019 22:44:19 GMT -8
It wasn’t long before two days had past and the time of the challenge had arrived. Gavin stood there waiting with all of his students. Only four of them might have been fighting but he felt it would be beneficial for all of them to bear witness to the duels.
Before long, the two masters arrived with the four students. The Twi’lek Sith gave a laugh as she approached
"I see you brought all of your students with you. I suppose you want them all to just how much of a failure you are as an instructor and potential that you wasted in them?" Gavin only smirked with a shrug which forced a growl from the Twi’lek.
"Just remember that when they lose, you are to leave and never return. And I would pray we never find you for we will kill you without mercy."
Gavin nodded before turning to his students. "Alright, Duvrax. You will be first." He then motioned to the few training sabers he had set aside for the other students to use for the duels. The time was now, time for his students to show just how capable they were.
|
|
|
|
Post by Spectres of Midnight on Jan 14, 2019 6:34:45 GMT -8
By Gavin's instruction, all the students had come to the training area to witness a challenge duel between four of them against four other students. While the details of the events leading to this were kept vague, there was still no lack of surprise that they would be facing off with older students and that all of them would be watching. Before long, the master and students that stood against Gavin and the selected four arrived.
Once there were a bit of words exchanged, Gavin summoned Duvrax to go first. He had hoped for such. Ever since the insults had been thrown his way he had been looking to get even. Stepping up, he removed one of the training hilts from his belt as Kotro took one as well, a clearly disgusted look washing over his face. Whether it was for the fact he had to fight Duvrax or use a training saber was anyone's guess. Nevertheless, there was barely a moment's hesitation before both blades were ignited and the battle began.
Kotro, being the older and more experienced moved quickly upon Duvrax, slashing down hard to start followed by a fury of quick and strong strikes that switched between single-handed grip and double-handed grip. But as the attacks came, Duvrax kept himself focus, remembering what had happened when he had faced off against Gavin. His anger got the best of him and he attacked and defended blindly. That wouldn't be the case this time around. Staying calm, he focused his anger to give him strength as he barely moved back with each strike. With each block and deflection, his lightsaber barely seemed to move.
Staying on defense for the moment, Duvrax took the time to try and understand Kotro's pattern of attack. Something he was glad for in that they had ended up switching their training between different people. That experience allowed him to better handle new opponents and gauge their movements. One thing was clear, Kotro's attacks were both fast an strong, which typically made it difficult to counter against. But there had to be an opening. And in time, his patience was rewarded as he made a counter strike by redirecting his opponent's saber and throwing him off balance. This happened a few times before the older Zabrak's anger began to become clear. This made Duvrax smirk, knowing that he was losing his cool. With that, he allowed himself to play defense for a little while longer, taking each opening as it came. The final push came when Kotro came down in a hard vertical slash. Lifting his saber and utilizing his strength, he was able to stop it and hold it with a single hand before sending a fist straight into the older student's diaphragm.
Stumbling back and trying to catch his breath, Duvrax took hold of the opportunity to take the offensive. Keeping with the simple movements of Shii-Cho, he added in his greater size and strength. Even at the age of eleven, he was easily as tall and strong as the sixteen-year-old before him. Using his advantages he delivered an onslaught to Kotro to which he could barely keep up with. After a total of twelve heavy and focus strikes, Duvrax forced his opponent's blade from him, causing the older Zabrak to step back.
"Oh, you think you're something, don't you? Well, it's not over yet!" Full of anger, Kotro's beath was heavy as he lifted his hands, letting them rest in front of him for a few seconds, enough to signify he was going to attack. Stretching out, lightning began to surge from his fingertips and fire across the distance towards Duvrax.
Though he had no clue in how to defend himself from a Force Lightning attack, the clear sign of a coming attack gave Duvrax the mindset needed to prepare. As the lightning raced towards him, he lifted his saber instinctively, the lightning meeting it and being held at bay. Kotro continued to push the attack, hoping to overcome Duvrax's defenses. But all it did was further the younger Zabrak's anger. Finally ready, he took a deep breath before calling out to Kotro.
"You shouldn't underestimate your opponent. You never know what they'll do." Letting go of the hilt with his left hand, he lifted the hilt higher as his left hand went lower. The lightning followed, opening his opponent further. Without warning, red streaks of Force Lightning shot across towards Kotro, engulfing him. His attack ceased as he fell to his knees under the effect of Duvrax's attack. He held it for a few moments until he was certain the his opponent wasn;t planning on getting back up. Even when they attack ceased, Duvrax waited a few moments more before knowing that the battle was his. Looking to Gavin and the master, the prior who gave a nod of approval, he turned and rejoined his classmates.
|
|
|
|
Post by Spectres of Midnight on Jan 14, 2019 9:01:19 GMT -8
As Kotro worked to pull himself out of the way, still heavily disoriented from the barrage of lightning he received, Krokaa moved forward ready to face Omda. The Iktotchi smirked at him as he stepped up and took two training sabers. Igniting the blades, he began spinning them casually in attempt to intimidate the younger student.
"Your friend might have beaten Kotro, but you will not be so fortunate. His strong potential carried him through whereas you do not possess such gifts. I’ll show all of you just how insignificant you are." Krokaa could only shake his head with a smirk as he lifted and ignited his own saber.
Even though Duvrax was able to fight with a clear head, it was a skill that Krokaa possessed over him. Always the level-headed one, he wouldn’t be swayed but such talk. If his friend was capable of winning, than so was he. And so it came as the two moved in to engage the other. While cautious, he didn’t hesitate to start on the offensive, keeping himself mindful of the quick strikes of the two sabers. For the longest time, none seemed to get a bit in, both clear headed over their partners, capable of reading their opponents better.
The first effective hit came from Omda as he was able to make a craving slash at Krokaa’s legs. Feeling the sting caused a stir of anger which he used as Omda thought he gained a quick advantage. Coming down hard with both sabers, Omda thought himself successful, but failed in his attack as Krokaa blocked the attack, following it up with a hard kick to the chest.
Okra stumbled back and grew angry at the simple fact of being hit. Growling, he jumped forward with the Force, ready to drive his blades into Krokaa. But with the lift of a single hand, Krokaa used the Force to arrest Omda’s approach. Taking a deep breath, he suddenly thrust his hand downward twice, slamming the Iktotchi into the ground two times before getting sling back hard into the wall. All that was left was the grunting from him as he fell unconscious due to the impact.
|
|
|
|
Post by Spectres of Midnight on Jan 15, 2019 1:39:20 GMT -8
With two opponents down, Krokaa made his way off to the side as Theranna took his place. With two victories on their side, the confidence in each of the students were growing. But it didn’t make of them cocky, only working to confirm what Gavin had told them about his plans for them. Already they were seeing that their skills would let them at least function at the same level of those who had been training for up to four years.
The opposite was true of the other students and masters. With both his students down and out of the fight, he grew angry and embarrassed at what he had just witnessed. So too was it for his students, those who thought themselves superior to the younglings. The other three, while a bit distracted that the older students had, in fact, been beaten, the feeling of superiority began rising in them, not so much over the younger students but the other group of older students. They’d defeat their opponents and show that not only Gavin wasn’t up for being an instructor, neither was Tahl. A perfect way to move up the ranks and knock out competition.
Kihka stepped up to meet Theranna, taking a saberstaff from the stand. Igniting the blades, she spun the staff around her in a flashy show. Taking her stance the Arkanian ignited her single hilt. She did not harbor any real hatred for the girl, not like any of the others did. But she had held Theranna back from getting to Kosrezic. So a lesson had to be established: don’t mess with her or her friends.
No words were said as the two began their duel. While making a few attacks as they became available, Theranna remained mostly on defense. Most times she ducked under slashes and got behind the Devaronian to make a strike that was usually blocked. Neither seemed to find a proper opening to land a hit or bring their opponent down. Even when Kihka brought her staff straight down to be blocked by Theranna, allowing her a quick moment to mount the saber staff and use it to flip over Kihka, nothing became available.
But the passing minutes weren’t wasted. During the fight, Theranna worked to find an opening, to find a spot of weakness. Before long, she found it. There was always a short pause in Kihka’s movements during a slash, a spot where she let go of the blade from her furtherest hand. That was the moment she aimed for. Ducking under a strike, she turned and stepped up in front of her. With her lightsaber in a reverse grip now , she used it to keep the saber staff at bay as her left arm slipped up under the shoulder of Kohl’s and flipped her over her back to the ground.
The moment her opponent was laying on the ground, her right foot pressed down into Kihka’s right wrist to keep her from swinging out with her weapon as she rested her left knee on her opponent’s left arm. Putting her in a position directly over Kohl’s, Theranna pointed the blade down at her opponent’s throat at an angle so that if she was kicked, it’d force the training saber into her throat. She held it close enough that the stinging sensation began filling the Devaronian, causing her to make weird noises as she submitted.
|
|
|
|
Post by Spectres of Midnight on Jan 15, 2019 6:28:43 GMT -8
As Kihka struggle to get up and move out of the way, Kosrezic took Theranna's place. It was a toss-up between Duvrax and her as to who held the greater anger over the situation. But anger was surging through her as she had been patiently waiting and anticipating this fight. She wanted to make him pay for his actions a couple days earlier. And now, seeing how the others did, she felt confident that she could as well. Igniting her blade, she waited for her opponent to step forward and prepare himself.
There was a wide grin across Antan's face as he stepped up, taking up a single hilt from the stand.
"I hope you're ready for this. Once I've beaten you, I'll have what I want, make no mistake. So show me how much fun you're going to be."
She growled as her anger began to rise. Due to what happened, it was easier for him to get under her skin and manipulate her than it would have been any of the others. Luckily, she didn't just jump in, otherwise, her anger would have blinded her and she would have lost in a heartbeat. But as she thought on her anger and how much she hated him, she remembered what happened to Duvrax against Gavin when he was run by his anger. Biting her lip, she forced herself to think and focus. With a deep breath, she took a stance as he leaped in.
It was all she could do just to hold him back. His style was chaotic, strong, and fast. Even remotely trying to predict his movements seemed nearly impossible. But she wasn't about to let him beat her and claim any sort of victory over her, not someone like him. It had to be done, here and now, so to put him in his place. But with the ferocity of his attacks, her strength wouldn't be able to hold up with direct blocks. As such, she spent more time avoiding and deflecting his attacks so to spare her the brunt of them. She also hoped that it would grant her an opening in which she could end it. Defeating him couldn't be done with simple small attacks. She could feel it, the darkness fueling him and his form. Whatever she did had to become an assault that destroyed that flow within him.
Five minutes past, ten, fifteen. It was the longest fight by a decent margin. It had to be, less one wrong move spell the end. Patience was key here, hoping that the energy put into his attacks would wear out with time. And it started to. His attacks began to slow and weaken while she still remained strong. The approach she took in the battle coupled with the endless hours Gavin put them through aided in keeping her stamina up. And with each strike to previous rising arrogance began shifting to heavy frustration that she was still holding him off.
This frustration granted her the opening as he decided to throw the majority of his strength into a downward swing. Bringing her blade up, she was able to stop the attack, though barely. Her knees gave a little as did her arms, almost breaking through, though she was able to hold on and push back a little. Sensing her give, he began pushing harder into the attack to finally break her down, but as he did, she let her body give by her own command, tilting the blade off to her right. The force he was putting into it only aided in his stumbling as he started losing balance as she guided his blade to the ground. Stepping up with her left foot, she performed the Kouho Haiho technique on him, spinning around him in the blink of an eye, using his force to add more speed to her spin.
In that spin, her blade came around with heavy force, giving him one solid slash across the back. She quickly made a second, weaker slash back the way she came before sending her blade straight up the middle of his legs. She put all her strength into that attack, forcing the blade to press against his crotch as the pain fro the training blade surged through him. For this moment, she was glad it was a training blade, only for the fact of the pain it caused instead of simply removing his equipment. Finally, she pulled back hard and dropped down to kick at the back of one of his knees to make him buckle and fall. Spinning out of the way, she unleashed a barrage of purple Force Lightning upon him for a second before stopping. It took all she had to hold back and not unleash all her hate on the man. But she needed to keep control and not lose herself to anger, even if she held the upper hand. Taking a few heavy breaths, she stepped back before turning to see Gavin giving her a single, slow nod. She did so in return before joining the others.
|
|
Gavin Phoenix
The Dark Jedi Order
"See first with your mind, then with your eyes, and finally with your body"
Posts: 1,144
Affiliation: The Dark Jedi Order
Traffic Light: Green
|
Post by Gavin Phoenix on Jan 15, 2019 6:51:35 GMT -8
Gavin watched as the fights happened. For the most part, they played defensively, even Duvrax. It was a smart choice on their part, proving that they weren't going to go in completely blind and believed that their opponents would be much stronger, meaning they had to be smarter. Even as the victories kept going up, Kosrezic didn't go in with an attack, though it was less of an option for the Twi'lek seeing Antan utilizing the dangerous lightsaber form of Juyo. But she played her part smart, avoiding attacks instead of taking them on. And in the end, they had all been defeated.
Stepping up to the other masters and defeated students, he gave them a bow as he let the cocky expression fade. This was not the time for arrogance, but respect. "You're students fought well against mine. And now you can see the fruits of their training, despite how short and simple it was. I do hope that you all can learn from this and use it to become much stronger, for both yourselves and for the Blackguard." He gave them another bow as they departed, though there were more than a few muttered words from the masters to him and their students.
Once out of sight, he turned back to his own students. Duvrax, Krokaa, Theranna, and Kosrezic. Well done. Use this experience going forward and help guide your other peers who have not yet gotten to face such duels. But for the rest of you, see what your training has granted you? They may have been the ones fighting, but their skill is no greater or less than yours. I believe that each and every one of you could have succeeded here today. Remember these things: respect your opponent, no matter their training or rank, never go in arrogant and with a hazy mind of emotion or distraction, and always believe in yourselves. In light of these events, I have decided to give you all you're next tasks. I want you all to begin learning three things. Learn the differences between Jedi and Sith, learn the difference between a Sith and a Dark-sider, and finally start thinking about who you are and what you seek to accomplish with your growing power. For the first two tasks, I want you to look past the superficial or the things you would normally learn from others. Search deep to truly understand what these differences are so you do not enter a battle thinking blindly of what a Jedi or a Dark-sider is. That is all. See you in a week."
As the students departed, talking with the four who fought about what it was like and advice should they ever get caught in a fight like that, Gavin watched until they were out of sight. He then looked up to the roof and pushed a few buttons on a remote in his pocket. From above, a droid descended down in front of him. It had been set there to record the fight as he saw it as the perfect opportunity to show the effectiveness of his lessons to both the Headmaster and the Sith'ari. Taking a deep breath, he spoke to the camera. "As you can see, Headmaster, with only a single year of training in the basics, four of my students were able to defeat students with four to five years of training under their belts. While we can say that arrogance of their superior skills and knowledge had a part to play, I'm sure you can agree that at this point in their training, that part was small. I'm hoping that word of this encounter will affect the training of those older than my students so that they realize that there is still much more they can achieve and do to benefit themselves, this academy, and the Blackguard. Within another year, I should be done with the basics of their training. Please tell the Sith'ari that this effect does extend to Geralt and Lizbeth as well, and when we finish the second year of training they will be ready to further themselves into more advanced arts should he be ready to take them under his wing or move them to new instructors." He gave the camera a bow before ending the recording and sending the video off to the Headmaster. Once that was done and the droid put away, he headed off himself.
|
|
Gavin Phoenix
The Dark Jedi Order
"See first with your mind, then with your eyes, and finally with your body"
Posts: 1,144
Affiliation: The Dark Jedi Order
Traffic Light: Green
|
Post by Gavin Phoenix on Jan 17, 2019 6:19:14 GMT -8
It had been nearly two months since the incident with the other students and masters. Even now, it was still an achievement that resonated within the minds of his students. Their training had been short enough that with their victory, they gained confidence in their growing skills without the worry of them growing arrogant. Just another reason why he was glad he had started with this group of younglings. He was able to properly bring them up with the right mindset. Since then, there was a new resolve within each of them, making them work harder. All Gavin had to do now was nurture that growth and make sure it didn't get to the point that they cut corners and sought the easy path of power.
This day carried on as it had since the newest lessons. The first hour was spent focusing on hand to hand combat, the second on their Shii-Cho training, and a third on their growing Force techniques. Gavin moved among them as they went, giving advice as needed, but also adding something new to the mix. Now, Gavin would randomly attack the students to work on their awareness around them even when in combat. If they could respond to him without hesitation and return to their normal spar without issue, it worked to show they could handle random and spontaneous attacks.
Once those three hours had passed, they began to focus on one of the main lessons for their second year: fighting unarmed armed against armed opponents. The past two months had been half focused on that, the other on Force enhancements. For now, he watched as they worked in their pairs, monitoring their progress and continuing to advise them. This day had them facing off with the Jar'Kai style in order to be able to fend off two sabers unarmed.
|
|
Deleted
Deleted Member
Posts: 0
|
Post by Deleted on Jan 17, 2019 18:03:19 GMT -8
Finding her way into the training area was an easy enough feat. It was a place Mariah had briefly acquainted herself with during her first and only other time here within the Academy. Her single concern was that one of the students or, worse, masters would stop the cloaked figure that wandered their halls on her determined journey. Whether it was her small, almost childish stature, or her suppressed, weakened signature, or simply that none of them could be bothered that permitted her presence remained a mystery. All that mattered, however, was that she was left to venture alone. She hadn't such luck the last time she attempted it on Mustafar, at least, and she had no desire for such disturbances today.
Mariah hastened to the training area on a hunch and nothing more, and she didn't bother with taking a mere moment to feel out with the Force to confirm whether she was correct in her assumption or not. Instead, her shadowed figure nearly floated quickly yet soundlessly down the corridors as she searched. Students were found practicing with friends and classmates. Others spent their day with their masters or instructors as they tackled another day's lesson. None caught her attention for longer than that split second of recognition, though, before she pressed onward. Her certainty, that who she sought was here, was unwavering despite each failed check of the individual training rooms. Neither disappointment nor doubt had even a moment to fester within her mind.
The tightened breath caught in her chest had remained unknown to even her, however, until she finally found the room. A group of students, all deep within their own lesson for the day, and their instructor -- the one she sought to uphold a promise, a challenge, and prove a point she had long waited to make. The faintest curl of her lips in an expectant, wicked half-smile was there and gone, and with it, the cloaked figure breathed out a silent sigh. Venturing with quiet steps into their training room, she kept tucked out of the way, as to not disturb the younglings with their lesson, nor the one she sought who conducted it. Creating a scene was not something this woman was known to do, and instead, she opted to simply watch quietly and patiently. Her time would come, and until that time, she would remain just a shadow on the wall.
She had only caught the end of the long day's exercises, as the students prepared themselves to fend off the Jar'Kai style unarmed. A curious lesson, although one she knew would prove to useful to each and every one of them as they continued on with their training. It was typically an unfortunate circumstance to be found in, at least to her who favored the use of her sabers, but with training, nothing was impossible to deal with. She hoped, though, that she wouldn't be cause for distraction among the young ones who ran their drills. She had a feeling, however, that a hidden figure's sudden appearance might cause just that, even if for but a moment. Crimson eyes, hidden beneath shadows of the hood, glanced up towards Gavin before finding the students again. She took a moment to survey each and every one of them. Some things couldn't be helped, but it would be interesting to see which ones noticed, which ones remained poised, and finally, the overall tone among all with the arrival of this unknown, lingering visitor.
|
|
Gavin Phoenix
The Dark Jedi Order
"See first with your mind, then with your eyes, and finally with your body"
Posts: 1,144
Affiliation: The Dark Jedi Order
Traffic Light: Green
|
Post by Gavin Phoenix on Jan 18, 2019 14:46:14 GMT -8
Gavin's back was to the entrance as Mariah slipped in. Yet, he noticed the weak presence as it arrived and took up residence in the shadows. Feeling it out for a moment, he smirked. It might have only been one day, but he knew that presence anywhere. For nearly a year he had waited, wondering if she would return to the academy to make good on their little challenge. And finally, that day had come. If she paid attention to him, she might have noticed the slight turn of his head, the kind that suggested they were looking behind them with their other senses rather than their eyes. It was subtle, something his students wouldn't have noticed, but Mariah, on the other hand, would have if she watched him well enough.
The students, however, it didn't seem to take notice. Her presence remained insignificant enough that it didn't register to their senses. And for those that had noticed her arrival, they would have thought nothing of it, even if she was hidden under a hood. It wasn't uncommon for other students or masters, even the Headmaster himself to show up and simply watch. Over the course of a year and two months, they had learned to keep training and not worry about those in the corner. Contradictory to how they needed to act in battle, but far from the uncommon mindset of the classroom. Don't get distracted by those watching and mess up.
It was already approaching the hour's end when Mariah made her arrival. At most, she would have witnessed twenty minutes of their work. But with her arrival, he decided to close the class early. "Alright guys, bring it in." He waited for a few moments as they stopped what they were doing and approached him. "Now remember. Regardless of others may say, a lightsaber isn't your life. Relying on it and seeing it as your only means to fight is what gets you killed. You have your weapons, you have the Force, and you have your body. You are never without a weapon. Fighting unarmed is no different than fighting with a weapon. The only thing that separates them is your reach and pattern of attack. No matter the weapon, you can overcome it provided you watch for your openings and keep yourself close enough to get inside their defenses. Do that, and you can face down anyone with any weapon, even should you be without one. Speed and focus. That is all. Dismissed."
He waited for a few moments as they began to scatter and collect their things. Once he saw them to be on their way, he turned to face Mariah, simply looking at her for a moment with his arms crossed before finally walking up to her. "It's been nearly a year since our last meeting. And here I was beginning to wonder if you'd ever return."
|
|
Deleted
Deleted Member
Posts: 0
|
Post by Deleted on Jan 19, 2019 14:17:48 GMT -8
Very little slipped by the shrouded warrior, who lingered in the shadows of the training room. Gavin's faint acknowledgement was met with her own for a brief second, before her attention was drawn yet again to the students. In a way, they were a key to the coming challenge and what she had to look forward to. They were the heirs to his knowledge, his training, his experiences. They didn't disappoint, either. They were all so young that Mariah had expected at least one stumble from split attention or be caught off-guard, yet they all continued their drills and exercises with an unparalleled focus, even from those whom Mariah caught that flicker of acknowledgement to her presence. Patience came easy within those short twenty minutes while she lingered in silence, simply observing.
It was almost disappointing when Gavin cut them off and gave a rousing concluding speech with his students. A wry smile curled at the corners of the figure's lips, although she still remained ever silent to their closing lesson of the today. Even as the students collected their things, the figure remained statuesque near the wall, unmoving until the very last student made their leave from the training room. With it, Gavin finally acknowledged her fully, and not the hidden welcome he offered earlier. Despite the truth in his words, that nearly a year had passed since then and now, seeing him again brought about the memories of their last encounter as though she had only left yesterday. His overconfident and cocky farewell seemed to carry on so smoothly to this moment, to his reveal in doubting her.
"If I didn't know any better, I'd think that you missed me," she quipped in low tones, removing her hood to let her crimson hair spill over her shoulders. Her eyes locked with his with that lingering challenge, the knowledge of what was to come between the two of them. "Many things have developed between then and now that prevented me from coming sooner. I told you then that not even death would stop me, though. It's a shame that you have such little faith in me."
It was only then that the crimson haired woman moved from her place. She brushed past Gavin to walk throughout the space where his students had only moments ago trained. The way that Mariah moved throughout the training room in an erratic pattern appeared puzzling, although a more trained eye might've noticed that she simply tread around the ghosts of the students, as though they were still present.
"Interesting bunch you have there. More talented than even they realize, I'm sure. Although I hope your rather inspiring words won't lead them astray at some point down the road." She paused, crimson flickering over at him as she caught him out of corner of her eye. "'You can face down anyone with any weapon, even if you should be without one,'" Mariah murmured with a lazy mimic of his own tones. It was clear she didn't quite agree, but she left her displeasure to linger and fade with nothing more than her words. "How long has this group been training under you?"
|
|
|
|
Post by Spectres of Midnight on Jan 19, 2019 15:57:54 GMT -8
As the students began to head out, Theranna made her way back to the training room, telling Kosrezic she forgot something. She had intended on speaking with Gavin once the training had finished. It had been two months since what happened with the other students and him telling them to begin thinking about who they were and what they sought with their power. Truth be told, she knew the end goal she wanted from this training: to be able to protect and help those who are left with no one and nothing. But that was all. She was still racking her brain trying to understand herself and how she could apply that to her goal of acquiring her power. And so she thought about asking Gavin what he thought and, in the process, get some alone time with him and see what he thought of her in a discreet manner.
However, as she reached the entrance, she saw he had gone to speak to the new arrival. She had noticed Mariah when she first arrived but thought nothing of it just like none of the other students. At first, she still considered this as just another student or a new arrival to the academy that needed help. But as the seconds passed, that feeling changed. She couldn't hear what they said, but the way they stood, it was so casual, as if they knew each other. What made it worse was when the woman removed her hood, letting her crimson hair fall around her shoulders. She appeared young, but nowhere near enough to be a student or even apprentice. She was beautiful, at that. It sparked a twinge of jealousy within Theranna as she watched for only a few moments more before turning and walking away. While unknowing of the relationship they held, the Arkanian couldn't help but feel as if she was beaten to the punch, that Gavin had interest in the woman. Shaking her head, she pushed the thoughts away. What was she thinking? Of course, it was possible Gavin had someone or met someone. She was, after all, young. But with his age, she felt anything could have been possible later down the road. Then again, he might have just known her and the two were friends. Yes, that could have been the truth and she was over thinking it. No matter the reality, one thing was clear: she needed to keep training and growing stronger so as to catch his attention. And with that, she headed on, head still carrying its childish crush.
|
|
Gavin Phoenix
The Dark Jedi Order
"See first with your mind, then with your eyes, and finally with your body"
Posts: 1,144
Affiliation: The Dark Jedi Order
Traffic Light: Green
|
Post by Gavin Phoenix on Jan 19, 2019 16:22:52 GMT -8
Gavin smirked as she spoke, shrugging slightly. "I will not lie, since that one night with you, it has been a rather dull and episodic routine here, outside of training my students, of course. So I guess you could say I did." He knew how the words sounded, but didn't care to correct them. In fact, he was curious as to her own response to it, knowing that with all others gone, it was only he and her within the area. Anything shared between them would remain between them. He then laughed with a shake of his head. "Please. I knew you'd be back one of these days. The interest of the challenge excited you just as much as it does me."
Turning, he watched her with observant eyes as she walked around the training area. At first, it was a curious thought to the pattern of her steps. But after a bit, he caught on to what she was doing. Walking around as if the students were still here, training, almost looking as if being an instructor was her role and not his. He said nothing for the few moments, his eyes holding a faint level of fondness as he watched her. It had only been a single night, but that encounter had remained with him for nearly a year. It had sparked a fire in him in more ways than one, making him count the days until she returned. Even if it hadn't been for their duel, it wouldn't have mattered. But for now, he kept such thoughts concealed from his face. He didn't need her running off suddenly, not before they had their chance to duke it out.
When she spoke again, it had turned to his students. His smirk grew as he nodded. "Believe me, they know. Just a couple months ago, there was an incident with a few older students. In order to keep things civilized as well as to prove a point, a friendly spar was set up between them and four of my students. Four students with four years or more of training over them and my students defeated them all. Their masters were none too happy about the outcome. But the point was proving and the matter settled. I had them all present to watch and realize just how effective their training had was and what their dedication has done for them. To ensure the point was made, I had it recorded and sent to the Headmaster to show the effectiveness of my training." He then walked up to her as she mimicked his words, almost sounding like she was mocking him. He only gave a shrug. "But the reality is true. With the right training and focus, you can beat an enemy no matter their weapon. It has served me well for nearly two centuries. Now, I'm not saying they should attempt to do it to prove a point, only that they can still fight should they be without one. Of course, having a weapon is always a better option. But if there is one thing my training is focused on, what is the foundation of my own training is mastery of self." When she asked how long they had been training, he gave a smirk. "This group has been training for only a year and two months. Quite the accomplishment, don't you think?"
|
|
Deleted
Deleted Member
Posts: 0
|
Post by Deleted on Jan 20, 2019 12:05:57 GMT -8
Mariah continued her pattern throughout the empty training room. However, Gavin's choice of words managed to create a pause in her fluid steps. She arched an eyebrow at him and only offered a quiet hum at first before continuing her rounds. "Even after all this time, some things never change," she murmured lowly. It was better than calling him a liar as she had last time. For now, she wanted to keep the peace, at least until they could finally begin their challenge. All the same, Gavin was still a puzzling person, one she hoped to unravel more when their blades finally locked.
They might have been alone, at least at first. Very little could slip by unnoticed, though, and out of the corner of her eye, Mariah could see a white figure, like a phantom no bigger than she, standing at the entrance for the briefest of moments. There and gone, and then they were alone again. Although Mariah remained silent to the observation, she made note of the girl. She recognized her as one of his promising students, the Arkanian. It was almost like instinct with her brief appearance for Mariah to glide her way towards where she had stood among the students and attempt to recall the girl's precision and focus throughout the exercises. Very little may have slipped past the crimson haired woman, but her own focus upon the remnant essences of his students distracted her from his intrigued stare as he watched her.
The story of their victory brought Mariah's gaze to narrow slightly, although the usual harshness was nowhere to be found. It was only the slight tilt of her head that revealed her curiosity to the incident and the happenings between the students. She had figured it was common for these types of happenings to develop; even she had her own run-in her one day she had been here. However, there was a dream-like look in her eyes, as if the woman's attention was only half in the present. She mulled over that fact, students with four years or more training struck down. Gavin's approach snapped her back fully into the present moment, and with it, it was like the ghosts of the students dissipated in Mariah's mind's eye. She turned to face him fully now, and with a cross of her arms over her chest, she widened her stance just enough to place her weight evenly, grounding herself.
"Of course you can defeat an enemy, no matter their weapon or yours. Any enemy is another story," she retorted back with a disapproving gaze. "If you're not careful with those inspiring speeches, they'll end up developing such overconfidence, believing they're a caliber above any other they might cross, and unknowingly underestimate their opponents. Eventually, it'll only get you into trouble." A point she had hoped to prove to him today.
However, there was something even more puzzling in his explanation, even if she didn't reveal it within the returned sharpness in her gaze. Two centuries. Was that even possible? With her original arrival, he had made mention of his age, knowing hers to be not as it seemed, either. She didn't even have a chance to point out that the mastery of self sounded more like the Jedi's teaching than the Sith's. Then again, all the Sith cared about were results, which he had proven to them. Yet the puzzles continued, to hear that the students had only been working with him for just over a year, yet what she saw appeared like those who had trained under him for far, far longer. Her jaw shifted, and with it, she tore her gaze from his and took a few steps away, putting some distance between the two.
"So is this where you wish to settle the score?" she asked, avoiding the question placed before her. "Or shall we take it to the arena?"
|
|
Gavin Phoenix
The Dark Jedi Order
"See first with your mind, then with your eyes, and finally with your body"
Posts: 1,144
Affiliation: The Dark Jedi Order
Traffic Light: Green
|
Post by Gavin Phoenix on Jan 20, 2019 15:07:25 GMT -8
As had Mariah, so too did Gavin notice Theranna's return. He had developed a connection with them that they had yet to realize, allowing him to sense them far more easily than others. He felt her there, notice the faint white hue of her skin finding in the shadows of the entrance. He was curious as to why she had returned after being dismissed, but quickly let the thought pass. For now, he had but one priority: Mariah.
When she spoke further about his teachings, her disagreement became all the more clear. Tilting his head, he gave a faint laugh. "Well, that is what I said. But true enough. There are those that can't be beaten, or, at least, looked at with such a simple state of mind. Then again, if one can actually think and observe the situation, then I do believe anyone can beat any enemy without a weapon." He then took a breath when she mentioned overconfidence. It was indeed the biggest fault many warriors faced. "Overconfidence is something I don't tolerate in any situation. I teach my students to respect an enemy, no matter who they are, Jedi or Sith, master or apprentice. Because that same knowledge I impart to them could just as easily be used against them. One never knows when a weak apprentice may just hold that one skill or piece of knowledge that can bring the most powerful enemy down. Rule one of combat: respect the enemy and never let yourself become overconfident. Acting is one thing, but never let it become reality."
He noticed she didn't answer the question posed to her about his students, only walked away before asking about where their duel would take place. When the two locations were stated, he shook his head. "Neither. I've chosen a location a few miles away. I know you like to remain unseen and viewed as unremarkable so to pass by without drawing attention, similar to me. Out of respect, I've decided to take this away from the academy so if you wish or need to unleash and reveal your power, you can do so without anyone noticing. Same for myself. I'm still not ready for everyone to feel my power and see my skills. None, that is, except for you."
|
|
Deleted
Deleted Member
Posts: 0
|
Post by Deleted on Jan 21, 2019 10:03:43 GMT -8
Gavin's quiet laugh to her disapproval caused a slight tension in Mariah’s muscles. Naturally, she knew he would stand firm on his teaching methods. She would do the very same. It was just that laugh, that abounding easy nature of his. As she had said before, some things never change. It was his continuation, combating her claim to overconfidence, that drew her eye back to him. In a way, his words mirrored that inspiring speech he presented to his students, at least in her eyes. 'Rule one of combat.' Although her gaze narrowed upon Gavin, Mariah's lips twitched upwards in a faint smile for a flicker of a second.
"Very well, Phoenix," she murmured with a slight upwards tilt of her chin. "Your students, your teachings. As long as you don't turn them down the wrong path..."
Then again, the very fact that they were all training within the Sith Academy was enough for Mariah to believe they already were being led down the wrong path. Perhaps they were better off learning under him than a Sith Master. Mariah immediately dismissed the thought as quickly as that feeling started to rise the surface. Respect, perhaps, or something that resembled it. Either way, she hadn't the time acknowledge it now; she had come here to fulfill this challenge, which was fueled by the memories of their last meeting. That overconfident aura of his was ingrained in her memory, even if he rebuked it now, at least regarding his students.
When Gavin mentioned the location and his reasoning behind it, the crimson haired woman exhaled a dry laugh. "Choosing that locations sounds like it's just as much for you as it is for me," she corrected. "Don't hide behind some noble excuse that you were keeping me in mind when deciding." It was like a strange dance with her: retreat and advance. This time, Mariah was the one who closed the gap between the two, and her eyes met him with a striking intensity. "Besides, I don't care what the Sith think of me, nor what they witness of me and my abilities. Now, more than ever."
She lingered for but a moment longer before the reality of her actions and works actually sunk in. 'Now more than ever.' There were two reasons she had come here, even if he only knew of one. There was a time and place for everything, though, and she had deemed before she arrived that the second reason would only be fulfilled after the first. If she had struck any curiosity from Gavin with her words, Mariah was quick to press forward. It wasn't like he was known to push anyway.
"One night with me, and you're already willing to reveal all your little tricks? You make yourself a bit too easy." He wasn't the only one who could string together a few words together regarding that night; however, hers were laced with a bit more biting poison than his. "What have I done to receive such an honor?"
Despite the venom in her words, there was an underlying truth to them that she hid. To her, it was honorable to witness and stand against another's full potential, to experience the skills that they otherwise kept hidden from other opponents. Even if she refused to reveal it now, she had hoped for it. Her parting words before leaving almost a year ago was that she didn't want him to disappoint. At least now, she had that confirmation that he wouldn't.
|
|
Gavin Phoenix
The Dark Jedi Order
"See first with your mind, then with your eyes, and finally with your body"
Posts: 1,144
Affiliation: The Dark Jedi Order
Traffic Light: Green
|
Post by Gavin Phoenix on Jan 21, 2019 11:33:55 GMT -8
Gavin's eyebrow shifted upwards as her words came about his students. No matter who or what, there would always be a difference in teaching methods. Sometimes, it didn't bother him. To each their own. But sometimes, as with the Sith, he looked down upon them and the way they brought up their pupils. Yes, more often than not, the Sith proved to have the superior power. But in that, overconfidence took root, eventually becoming their downfall. It was what he hoped to prove, believing the first steps had been taking in that matter during the most recent incident.
But there was something in the way she disapproved of his methods. She let it be, sure, but something about it was amusing to him. To him, he saw it as a possible argument that would have actually served some use, helping them both see new means of improving. But that would come to light in the coming challenge. That he was sure of.
Closing his eyes with a smirk as she spoke of the location and what she felt the real reason to be. "Indeed it is. However, I do believe I said it was just as much for you as it was for me. I never said anything about what they may think of you, but I seriously doubt you want such things revealed without need. Doing so you begin to eliminate your ability to hide and slip around unnoticed while here." Whether or not she truly cared about fighting and unleashing the full depth of her power so that the academy could see was unknown to him nor was it really relevant. All he wanted to do was see if he could ruffle her feathers a bit before the fight. One key to fighting was getting under one's opponent's skin and disrupting their focus. He wanted to see if it was easy to do or if she was just as capable of brushing off such words as he was.
But there was a little piece that picked his interest. Why was now any different than before? What had she encountered in their time apart? It intrigued him but said nothing for the moment as she continued on. A smirk formed on his face as she, too, played with words regarding their time together. "Well, I don't know if you'll see them all. Depends on how well you can handle me. After all, if you can't keep up, you always miss the climax of one's abilities. I do hope you can, though. I've been hoping for a good time." He gave a laugh before turning, choosing not to answer her question at the moment. "Well, if you're ready to get things underway, meet me at the landing pads. I've got to pick up a few things first."
|
|
Deleted
Deleted Member
Posts: 0
|
Post by Deleted on Jan 22, 2019 19:33:21 GMT -8
Ruffling her feathers, getting under her skin. He had somehow managed to achieve it the last time she was here, and she had never forgotten that since the day she left. There were many things she had practiced before her return here to make whole with this challenge; making sure he couldn't achieve it again was one of them. Either he was skilled in Dun Möch or was just another silver-tongued rogue who happened on the correct words. Either way, it didn't matter to the crimson haired woman today, as long as she could keep a level head around him this time. The outcome of their challenge hung in the balance, and she knew her victory was on the line. However, when Gavin spoke about the even weight of his words dispersed between the two, Mariah's eyes narrowed slightly, a menacing stare quieted by that ever returning wry smile on her lips. It was almost laughable, at least in the eyes of his dueling partner today.
"Very soon, there may be reasons where that will be stripped from me anyway," was her only reply, as she attempted to remain as cryptic as possible. She had wanted to give him the benefit of a clear head for this match, but if he wished to start the duel here and now with their word games, she would meet him on his battlefield, "so if you don't have any desire to do so yourself, your chosen location will suffice."
While she had originally met his words with a questioning stare, Mariah allowed herself to indulge in these games of his. She very well could have left well enough alone now and simply met him at the landing pads as he requested, and at first, such was her decision. Her intense crimson stare upon his blue snapped away, and her figure headed towards the door without so much of another word. With his own riposte still left unchallenged, however, she had already dedicated herself into this bantering sport and refused to allow him that satisfaction of her retreat.
"We'll see who can handle whom," she murmured, turning back slightly to catch him out of the corner of her eye. "Most who talk as much as you don't last very long once in the heat of the moment. I do hope you're different and make this long wait well worth my patience."
Mariah's low, smooth tones hardly fluctuated, a stark difference between Gavin's smirk and laughter. She let her words hang in the air for a beat before retreating into the hood of her cloak, the same way as she arrived. With a rendezvous set, she didn't linger for another round of word games. She couldn't shut him up completely before she made her leave, but she would pay him no mind. She was here to face him with action, not words, and now, she was eager to see if he was all talk. Hidden beneath the shadowed hood and stoic expression, Mariah made her leave from the training room without another pause or hesitation.
|
|
Gavin Phoenix
The Dark Jedi Order
"See first with your mind, then with your eyes, and finally with your body"
Posts: 1,144
Affiliation: The Dark Jedi Order
Traffic Light: Green
|
Post by Gavin Phoenix on Jan 23, 2019 6:04:25 GMT -8
Gavin merely watched her, his smirk never once leaving. She certainly had better composure this time around, but it all came down to knowing him. Had this been a first encounter, the chances of getting under her skin was high. However, even though her resistance to his words seemed clear, he wasn’t about to stop just yet. One never knew if the next thing said would break the wall she had built around her. Plus, it was fun teasing and toying with her.
He said nothing more, or rather, wasn’t given the chance to before she slipped out of the training area and was heading towards the landing pads. With each passing second his excitement grew. Dropping his head with a smirk, he spoke one last thing to the ghosts that now occupied the area. "Such talk is only for you." With a faint laugh, he left for his chambers to gather his things.
|
|
