Post by Reisier on Feb 14, 2012 1:28:33 GMT -5
Name: Anahid Reisier
Race: Miraluka/Human Hybrid
Age: 26
Birth place: Naboo, Theed
Height: 5’6’’
Weight: 130 lbs.
Appearance: Plainly speaking Anahid is truly feminine in appearance without a doubt; her figure delicately crafted, particular attention paid on the soft line of her hips, the soft bend of her elbows and knees, the gentle curve of her neck, and the agile wisp of an ankle weighted down in firm balance. Standing no more than five-foot-six, Anahid looks at the world above most of her female counterparts. Smooth stretches of skin, clear and untouched, greet the eye; soft olive skin, unyielding, terribly tempting to touch. Full cheeks, colored often with a shade of rose, bring color to her peaceful façade. Her wide eyes and gentle smile seem almost childish, quality that has always remained, but her sharp tongue and wit reminds the onlooker of her maturity and keen reason. Set on her lips is a never wavering smile, giving many onlookers the idea that she might be laughing at some internal joke that only she could understand – more often than naught, she actually is. As apt for smiling as her full lips are, they can quickly drop into disapproval or displeasure with the same ferocity of a Krayt Dragon.
Set high above rosy cheeks, constantly glittering by either the sun or some other source, are a pair of mischievous eyes – trait only made possible by her father’s marriage to her human mother. A swirl of warm coffee, her eyes are constantly drenched with a bright and expressive appeal; though, upon further examination, you’ll see that her eyes hold no clue as to what is going on through her mind – call it a shield, if you will, because that is exactly what it is. As perfectly capable of seeing as her eyes are, her Miraluka blood brought forth a rather inconvenient trait – for as the sun sets beyond the horizon, she is rendered as blind as any Miraluka and forced to rely on Force Seeing.
A drop of unnaturally dark, silky spread, her hair is, by no means, an after-thought of her persona. The spirals of naturally unruly hair contain a very fine and soft consistency. The dark strands of hair slither down, shimmering softly with the light it might reflect, and abruptly end where the trail of her lower back begins.
As far as outfits come Anahid enjoys of two, clearly distinct sets -- the first being the traditional Jedi robes that she generally sports while in training or during her stays in the Temple. However, whenever she is taken outside the Jedi Temple's walls and she is required to face a challenge in the open world, she opts to wear a more fitting outfit, if you will. Looking more like a thief than a Jedi, the woman finds this outfit rather helpful when traveling to planets on hostile terms with Jedi.
Personality: Most people to have come across Anahid often describe the woman as serene – utterly serene. For the most part, she attributes this characteristic from being raised by the Jedi since she was nothing but a baby, later on, she admits, this trait grew stronger with the fostering of her Arkanian-Offshoot Master, Karem Falensarano. Because of her own serenity, Anahid can be described as being passive-aggressive whenever she were to become upset – while she won’t lose her composure in front of people, she is guilty of throwing snide comments whenever you manage to get under her skin – she’s not particularly proud of it, but, she admits that there is no such thing as perfection and that accidents, such as losing her temper, can happen. Thankfully, most people overlook her passive-aggressiveness, whether it be because she doesn’t appear to be the type of person to do so, or simply because she never loses that smile on her lips.
Putting that aside, Anahid is relatively friendly, finding almost any excuse to talk to people she considers to be particularly interesting. The woman is fond of people, finding their different personalities and upbringings worthwhile. Anahid is seen to be self-reliant, everything she has achieved has been achieved as a result of her own hard work and disposition; she never received anything she didn’t deserve, and she truly preferred it this way.
Faction: Jedi Order
Rank: Knight, Shadow
Lightsaber: Dual-Phase Lightsaber
Color: Light Orange
Practiced Lightsaber forms:
Shii-Cho 5
Makashi 1
Soresu 2
Ataru 0
Shien / Djem So 2
>>Sub-form Backhanded
Niman 0
>>Sub-form Jar-kai, or Dual Wield
Juyo 0
Double Bladed Combat 0
Force-Sensitive Abilities or practices:
Telekinetic: 3
Telepathic: 4
Body: 2
Sense: 6
Protection: 4
Healing: 3
Destruction: 0
Specialized Skills:
Force Sight
Force Deflection
Attributes:
Physical Strength: 4
Intelligence: 5
Speed: 6
Leadership: 4
Unarmed: 3
Melee Weapons: 2
Ranged Weapons: 2
Force Attunement: +3
Bio:
As a child, Anahid never knew the strength behind a hug, the power behind a kiss, the warmth behind a smile. In fact, her earliest memories start in the middle of class, reciting the Jedi Code in unison with other younglings. It was not until many years later that the woman would learn of her upbringing. It was during a late Winter night on 3626 BBY before the first snow had fallen, that a fragile cry broke the cold air, lungs gulping down air for the very first time. Choices now seemed so unimportant, so utterly pointless – their love had come to life, the proof being the tiny child that Elayne held in her arms. The father, Alves Reisier, watched in wonder, silenced by what he saw; destiny had give them a precious gift, a daughter. ‘Anahid,’ the name was given by the male Miralukan, he swore he saw the child smile, and so the life of the wide-eyed girl began. Whether she’d stumble through it with awkward, clumsy steps or she flew through it with the inherent ease and grace of a dancer, the path they had created was now hers for her choosing. The first fragile steps down this path were taken in soft leather shoes, which her mother had carefully laced with great love, and soon they turned into staggering steps and a crash into a coffee table that left a little scar in the back of the ear. However, her parents would never see her choose her path.
It was as she turned nine months of age as her parents returned home from a night at the opera that the couple was run over by a landspeeder – the driver, intoxicated from a late night with friends, didn’t even notice the accident. Alves, having been the one closest to the speeder during the impact died instantly; Elayne, on the other hand, died days after the accident. Having no next of kin that could take care of the child, Anahid was placed into an orphanage in the city of Theed; there, many thought, she would remain before she came of age and chose to leave. Yet, no one expected that a visiting Jedi Recruiter, a female Kel Dor by the name of Gure-Dakur, would drift into the orphanage a couple of months later and seeing potential in the child would determine that the best option for Anahid to be brought into the Jedi Temple, where she would be raised and instructed in the ways of the Force.
Running before she could fully walk and yelling before she could talk, Anahid soon turned from the quiet, precious, “bundle of joy” Gure-Dakur had found to a pain-in-the-neck youngling that seemed unable to keep herself out of trouble for more than five seconds. Anahid was loud, energetic, and fearless – bouncing from place to place, always seemingly ready for a challenge. Her inability to listen and readiness to accept the next challenge often got her hurt quite a bit and, as it was only expected, in trouble as well. Many of her peers and teachers even went on to say that it was surprising how the girl managed to learn her lessons at all – the general consensus was the girl was a natural listener and that once she heard it, she could remember what had been said. Thankfully as the girl aged, her childish antics started to dwindle instead replaced by a more mature, calm, even-tempered person, who not only admired the older Jedi, but who also worked hard to, one day, become one as well.
Years passed and to the surprise of many, the once loud, overly active child had now successfully become a wonderful student – respectful, quiet, and one who followed commands to the very best of her abilities. Nevertheless, it was as she had begun training in the basics of the Force, that her knack for Force Sight began to develop. Already having been able to see forms and shapes that exuded the Force from their bodies at night, a natural ability that her Miraluka lineage had brought, with the proper instruction, Anahid began to get a better grasp of this ability compared to her older counterparts. And while Anahid took great interest in the mysteries of the Force and the abilities it gave, she seemed to be less engaged when it came to her swordsmanship. It was not that she wasn’t particularly good at it, in fact she was quite average for her age in the field, but it seemed like Anahid was more interested in dodging and parrying attacks rather than attacking herself. After consulting with her instructors in numerous occasions, she was finally convinced to ‘try, at the very least.’ Grudgingly she accepted.
Day in and day out the girl would force herself to pick up a training saber and have a friendly encounter against another Youngling, and day after day she found herself growing more restless and tired. She really didn’t like fighting. Lossrk, a Bothan classmate with ashen fur and bright, expressive eyes soon saw her frustration and offered to help her. While she accepted his offer gladly, Anahid never quite grew passionate of offensive swordplay, to her Instructor’s dismay, though she did well to learn Shii-Cho thanks to Lossrk. Even though his attempt to further ‘instruct’ his classmate in the lightsabers techniques had been all in vain, a true and lasting friendship came from the many days spent together and inside jokes only they could understand.
As their thirteenth year approached, Lossrk began to mention the Initiate Trials, speaking in bright, quick verses – bouncing, or so Anahid thought, at the possibility of having a Jedi Knight take him. Anahid found it adorable, truth be told, and encouraged her friend to participate in the following trial. But Lossrk wouldn’t have it, saying that the only way he would do it was if she did as well – didn’t she want to become a Jedi as well? Of course she did, but Anahid knew that only the best were chosen, and Lossrk, without a doubt, was one of the leading younglings; Anahid, on the other hand, lacked a lot of the qualifications. But he insisted and so, she eventually accepted. The Initiate Trials weren’t particularly difficult; in fact, they were not that engaging – the first trial consisting of reciting and understanding the Jedi Code, the second one having a staged fight that could reflect her discipline in battle, and the third aiding an older woman locate her missing pet. What came afterwards, however, was the real test. After finishing with the Initiate Trials, Lossrk and Anahid both received the option to participate on the annual Apprentice Tournament, where Jedi looking to take on an apprentice would be gathering.
While the previous Trial had seemed cumbersome to Anahid, the possibility of impressing a Jedi during the Apprentice Trials certainly caught her eye. Under the supervision of their Instructors, Lossrk and Anahid began to practice on a daily basis, perfecting their techniques as best as they could. The day of the tournament, the two felt confident enough to make it through the rounds intact.
The battles that came were tough as thirty-two younglings were split into pairs and pitted against one another. Their strength, speed, stamina varied from one to the next – but neither Anahid or Lossrk gave up, both facing their opponents bravely. Somehow Anahid managed to get through Six rounds intact, but when it was her turn to face the Zabrak Youngling by the name of Xiszek, his intensity and ferocity in battle soon defeated her. Anahid was disappointed to say the least – she had hoped to reach the Eighth round, where, she dreamt of being recruited by a wise and all-knowing Master. But, the minute she felt herself falling and she turned to see the training saber mere inches from her face, her heart dropped in disappointment. It was all over.
While the fight was over for Anahid, the girl did not leave, cheering from the sidelines as Lossrk continued to face opponents until the very last round. As the free-for-all was announced, Anahid felt her heart beat madly against her ribcage every time Lossrk came close to being touched by a training sabre. Minutes dragged by until all but two stood, Lossrk and the Zabrak, Xiszek. The battle was fierce, lasting well over an hour, but at the end her long time friend, the Bothan Lossrk came victorious. Catching the eye of a Twi'lek master, Lossrk was soon taken as a Padawan. Anahid felt defeated, but not heartbroken – she had tried her best; but before the girl left the room to consider her next options, she was approached by what she later described as a beautiful man. With flowing white hair pulled back into a kempt ponytail and an icy-gray gaze, the young Knight, later identified as Karem Falserano, was interested in taking her as his Padawan – as a gift to begin this apprenticeship, the Arkanian-offshoot granted Anahid with the two crystals that would eventually become part of her lightsaber.
As years came and went, the duo became inseparable, finding an equal interest in using the Force rather than the brutality of the Lightsabers. This interest in Anahid’s part, encouraged Karem to eventually begin training her in the art of force deflection, technique which, he too, had inherited from his Master. Eventually, his technique and strength gained him the status of a Jedi Sentinel – which later became a status as a Shadow Jedi. Yet, his promotion to a Shadow came with a drawback – while the male could take her on most missions with him, certain tasks proved to be too dangerous to the young Padawan and, instead, would leave her in the care of other Masters. Eventually a prolonged mission forced the Jedi to leave Anahid behind – it would be the last time she saw him in over four years.
At the age of twenty, still in the care of Master Roman, a human Guardian, Anahid found herself in a Mission in Nal Hutta, where an extremist of Mandalorian decent, attempted to initiate a conflict between the Jedi and the Hutts. The two did well to stay under the radar, quietly inquiring about the Mandalorian by the name of Carja Jinn; no information about him was available and, even if it was, no one was saying anything. In fact, the more they inquired about Carja Jinn, the more it seemed like the man was nothing but a myth. Exhausting their resources and feeling desperate, the two entered a bar where, some had mentioned, a shady character had been seen. Of course, being in Hutt territory, most of the characters you are going to come across can be described as ‘shady,’ but, as far as they knew, it was their last resource.
The bar was filled with a frail haze constructed of gray gabaki, cigarra, and marcan herb leafs; it was an overwhelming aroma, a sickly sweetness that drifted lazily from the ashen tip of crumbled cigarillos, secured pipes, as well as Hookah pipes. Every minute time dragged by, the frail construct grew shorter, its smoke now diffused into the surrounding atmosphere. Making their way in cautiously, the Padawan and Master approached the bartender and settled in a pair of stools. While Master Roman quietly inquired about the Mandalorian, Anahid did well on sitting. Truth be told, the woman did not look to be particularly employed – save for the few times her eyes wandered amongst the many inhabitants that occupied the crude room. The music was pumping – females’ twisted forms parading about like twisted birds stuck in a fanciful flight; her eyes never strayed to them more than once, nevertheless, her attention shifting towards the males these previously mentioned females clung to – they talked softly amongst themselves, inconspicuous glances thrown in their direction as they wrapped their arms around the scantly dressed forms. Again, her attention never remained and instead refocused on the Master that was settled besides her. The bartender, Roman would explain, had heard nothing of the Mandalorian or any particular character of questionable descent. They needed to reassemble, Roman said, and check with their sources to see if the man was indeed still there.
As the duo stood to leave, however, their bodies suddenly tensed – in an instant their lightsabers were drawn just in time to reflect two blaster bolts aimed at them. When Anahid finally lifted her gaze to see the one that was shooting, she was met by the tips of drawn blaster pistols – seems like they had walked right into the wolves’ den. She grimaced slightly and clicked her tongue as she rose to a stance. They were outnumbered, of that there was no doubt – she glanced back at Roman who, in turn, looked back at her. Their options were clear – fight and risk having the Mandalorian disappear in the midst of the fight or be captured and finally come to meet the face behind the name. Without exchanging words, the two retracted their lightsabers – from which they were quickly torn – and were bound; not precisely like the duo would have liked things to go.
Captured, Anahid and Roman were lead out of the bar and deep into the stagnant marshlands that now spread through Nal Hutta. The heavy pollution found in the air as a result of strip-mining operations and heavy industrialization made it hard to breathe as they were dragged out from Bilbousa and into the Guarja Shipyards.
The stillness that engulfed this location was sickening, to say the least; no noise was heard save the rushing of the wind and the creaking of metal as it constricted in the colder night air. Roman and Anahid were led across the shipyard and into the distance, where the faint silhouette of an erected tent could be seen. Inside they found a crudely planned ‘control room,’ if you could even call it that, where a couple of tables were set. Besides one of these tables stood a group of people huddled in silence, studying a map before them. Unaware of the Jedi and their captors that had just entered the room, it would take a couple of minutes before anyone noticed their presence. Finally, a man looked up. He could be described as intimidating, of that there was no doubt, but it was not for size or girth. In fact, in size he was quite average, no taller than five-nine. Yet, it was his hardened jaw, adorned with a shiny scar that crept up his chin and down below his shirt, and wild eyes that truly struck Anahid. He stood straight and spoke fluently, a well-educated man, one that commanded attention and who received it. He spoke of them like he would of a thorn -- a nuisance, an annoyance, something that needed to be thrown away.
Turning away from them, Carja, they assumed, called a man – a tall figure with shaggy white hair, a bit of stubble, and icy gray eyes. Her heart stopped and a gasp was caught in her lungs – those eyes, she could never forget those eyes. The same man that had taken her as his Padawan seven years ago, the same man that had left her under Roman’s care, the same man whose safety she worried for was standing before them – dirtier, older, unrecognizable, but still the same Karem. Of course, he wasn’t referred to as Karem, instead he was called Marak, and was shortly instructed to take them out of the tent and to debrief them. Without hesitation Marak agreed and shortly after led them away.
Once alone, Karem questioned them about their visit to Nal Hutta to which Roman explained that he and Anahid had been looking for Carja Jinn who is said to be planning an attack against the Hutt and making the Jedi appear responsible. Karem is unmoved by what he heard already knowing about the attack himself. Having heard the rumors of the extremist, the Jedi Council had instructed Karem to try and infiltrate the group, from where he would continue to provide them with information whether or not it should be considered a threat. Knowing that the mission would be not only long but dangerous, the Council had suggested to leave Anahid in hands of another Master in the meantime – he accepted and days later he left for Nal Hutta. It was by pure per chance that Roman would later be assigned to the same mission Karem had received. From Karem they learned that the attack was to take place sooner than originally expected and that, in fact, it was going to be at a grander scale – it would be necessary to take action soon. But, for now, they would rest; Karem would return the moment the attack would take place.
Later that night as Roman and Anahid drifted in an out of sleep, a thunderous roar shook the camp. The startled Jedi awoke as anguished cries erupted from beyond locked doors – men screamed, orders yelled to none in particular, as the roaring of fire and crunching metal became more distinct. The roar, now recognizable as an explosion, returned, this time closer to the Jedi than before. As the startled Jedi attempted to make sense of what was occurring outside, the door to their holding cell snapped open. Heavy footsteps followed, signaling the incoming thread of a couple of Carja’s brigands. They said that it was their fault, whatever that was, and motioned for them to get down. He growled at them with anger, throwing curses and spitting in their direction. Again, they were instructed to get down, slowly but surely they followed the order. Behind her, Anahid heard them fumbling, cursing, and talking – it seemed as if they were unsure of what they should do with them. Finally, the sound of a blaster gun trigger announced their decision. Click. Anahid readied herself for what was to come, but before the gun could sound, the distinctive sizzling of a lightsaber expanding cut through the air. She felt air rushing as the figures turned around – shots were fired – followed by a heavy thud. The two turned to meet Karem standing a few feet behind. He apologized for his tardiness as he helped Anahid up, handing Roman his lightsaber. Handing Anahid her own, Karem explained that he had set a couple of bombs to detonate on Carja’s cargo ship to create confusion; a later bomb close to Guarja’s entrance was detonated. In midst of all the chaos, the Jedi managed to escape, forcing a furious Carja to retreat, leaving behind his men, ammunition, and plans.
Returning to Bilbousa, the Jedi readied their ship to return to the Temple once more. It was then that Master and Apprentice, after being separated for more than four years, were reunited. Now being twenty years old, Anahid proved to have grown into more than a capable Padawan. After Karem’s return, their role as master and Padawan was reestablished – years passed and with them the relationship grew. But unlike many relationships that were solidified into their roles, Karem and Anahid’s relationship evolved. It seemed to happen so slowly, so gradually that neither saw it coming -- it was not until a faithful night in visiting Naboo that their relationship was shattered. That night the two saw the world as one -- fell into uninhibited passions that the Jedi had frowned so much upon. But neither was worried about the outcome, to Karem the answer lay next to him that night. Afterwards he began speaking about leaving the order, the two of them together – start fresh, but the opportunity would never come.
The new bond they had created grew stronger with each passing month and soon the two were readying themselves to come forth to the Council and announce their departure. In what was supposed to be their last mission, a check-up on the Datooine Jedi Enclave, the two found themselves under attack once their ship broke across the sky. The ship went down. Battered, but mostly unscathed, the Jedi exited the ship with difficulty only to be met by the familiar face of Carja Jinn. Even years after the Nal Hutta incident, the man had never quite forgiven the Jedi, in fact, he had turned his attention to the ones who had foiled his attack, especially the one who had been his right hand. After years of searching, waiting, and watching – finally, as the duo had left the temple and stopped on the planet of Vinsoth for fuel – there, one of the members of Carja’s movement recognized the two and informed Carja of who he had seen. Carja ordered him to follow them and to tell him where they were headed. Upon further investigation the man found that the Jedi were bound to Datooine. Again, he came in contact with Carja and explained what he knew, Carja then proceeded to travel to Datooine himself where he prepared a ‘nice little welcome’ for the two. He was a little disappointed, Carja admitted with a grin, he was expecting the Jedi to put more of a fight. The two were all-too-happy to comply. Speeding in opposite directions, the Jedi drew the lightsabers and engaged.
Anahid fought to the best of her abilities returning blaster bolts, but her ability to fight multiple foes was lacking, to say the least, and the form she had chosen to do so, Makashi, didn't help her as much as she wished. She doesn’t remember much except a burning sensation starting in the middle of her back – she remembers her body collapsing, the pain unbearable. Her body slammed against the ship as she held on with all of her strength, but she slipped, enveloped in complete agony. Her head spun as she felt the butt of a rifle strike the back of her head. The pressure on her body increased with enough force that she felt her body twisting, caving in upon itself. Horror and panic replaced her surprise, and now were lodged in the back of her throat. She wanted to scream, to yell out, what the hell had happened? And then, just as suddenly as it began, everything stopped. A trickle of warmth ran down her back. Breathing shakily, Anahid used her right hand to press against the back of her head. It came away with blood. Her world swayed, green and blue and vivid through the glassy mirage of her eyes. Her quiet breaths became heavier and heavier, her still form shaking violently as she saw the figures circling her. She tells herself that this couldn’t be the end; it had to be a nightmare. She feels them getting closer, blasters rising as she attempts to move – one kicked her as she felt herself go down. It felt almost like a bucket of cold water hit her as she fell to the ground, or thousands of sharp little needles piercing through her skin. The bodies moved, thrown away from her as Karem ran to her. She remembers Karem’s voice faintly – he was screaming. As her vision blurred, she watched him turn – then, the darkness came. Before she knew it her senses had given: smell, touch, taste, sight. Darkness overcame her. Was this the end?
The shrinking part of her begged for release in death, but as the voice reminded her, she no longer knew how to die – so she would wait and watch and hear. The world would change but she would remain – she had no option, absolutely no say.
She remembered the moment the darkness came well, she remembered its overwhelming presence. Anahid found the presence to be exhilarating as well as terrifying. Later asked by Lossrk about her experience, Anahid explained that the experience with the darkness spoke to the primal instincts – to the desire, the fear, the terror of losing control, a vertiginous experience – nightmarish. She remembers every synapse being fully awake when in the darkness. Everything, she explained, passed through her mind in an instant – recognized, understood, becoming a part of her as nothing else could.
And then the darkness stopped, replaced instead by the vague impression of light. In the beginning, Anahid could make out nothing within the light – no shapes, no forms, only white. As her eyes adjusted, she was soon greeted by a vast ceiling. Upon further examination she realized that the ceiling extended downward into a crisp white room.
The opening of a door broke the silence of the room so suddenly that Anahid shifted suddenly. She met the intruder, Master Roman. His face was grim and bitter, sunken and white – almost as if he hadn’t been eating or sleeping very well. He sat across from her, took her hand in his – the words were simple and direct, ‘I’m sorry.’ She didn’t need to hear anymore, Karem had passed on. She felt her body go numb, gripped by an invisible force. Her heart was aching, her stomach twisted in a knot. Her body shook, but she was unable to cry at first – it couldn’t be true. She shook her head violently as it finally sunk, Karem couldn’t be, and he shouldn’t be dead. But it was true; after Anahid had lost consciousness the man had continued to fight on, disarming and defeating the opposing force. Yet, in the battle, he was mortally wounded and had died besides her, covering her body with his own.
His funeral had been a couple of days ago, Roman informed her, she had been unconscious through it; actually, it was surprising that she had woken up so soon – they were expecting a couple of more days before she began to stir. As she turned 22, she came to accept the routine that did not include Karem anymore – he would be close to turning 32. The world around her soon became a blur – the missions and lessons had little meaning; when her time came to take the Jedi trials before the order, she remembers being distracted – they spoke about waving the trial of courage because of Nal Hutta and the trial of the flesh not only for the battle that had wounded her, but also for the loss of her master – but she remembers little about the day after that. She faintly remembers the trials, the Trial of Skill where her lightsaber technique was studied as she fought a clever simulation created from stored data. The trial of spirit came next, where she was forced to see within herself – plunging deep into meditation, the Padawan saw nothingness, a vast emptiness that had taken over her soul the instant she learned of Karem’s loss. She attempted to defeat it, overcome the darkness that she saw. It was painful to experience it, to live it first-hand, but it was this same misery that showed her that this could not be the way. Regardless of her loss, regardless of her pain, Karem had sacrificed himself to save her and she couldn’t let it all be in vain. Pushing the darkness away, she managed to confine it in the recesses of her soul – not fully gone, but not fully there either. Her growth into Knighthood was later announced and concluded as her Padawan braid was shorn off with a lightsaber.
There is a stillness Anahid has recently discovered, a form of acceptance towards her loss and her path. While doubt upon her decision still continues to haunt her on a daily basis, she has made peace with what she has become. In steps similar to those that her beloved Master Karem had taken, she too became a Shadow Jedi. The more she travels and works to discover the reason behind the Sith’s nature and the origins of the Dark Side, the more Anahid wonders if there is a real difference between Jedi and Sith. Faces of the same coin, she calls them – opposing forces, unable to see eye-to-eye, but unable to exist without the other. Is it possible, she wonders, that any other feel the same way?
RP Sample: It was not unusual for rain to fall the last day of Spring in Naboo; most assumed it was the season waving goodbye to the gentle valley as it departed for the year. It was a beautiful sight, this last shower, starting early in the morning and lasting well past midnight. In rare occasions the shower would continue until the next day. And just as suddenly as the rain had begun, it ended as the first light of the summer sun broke the sky. What would happen next would continue throughout the rest of the summer, a beautiful sight to all the residents of Theeb. As if on cue, after lying still beneath the warm earth for seventeen years, small figures break the ground, their wiggling bodies making their way up the available root of trees. Slowly, the odd critters make their way up, attaching themselves to the bark of the trees – their limbs harden, bodies darken, all before a dainty, white figure starts pushing up from their backs. Suddenly, the creatures transforms, the most obvious change now being the wrinkly wings that begin to straighten and dry. It takes several hours for this process to finalize, but once it’s done, it is clear that summer has arrived – the insects begin to sing their song. It is a gentle melody, very similar to that the previous showers provided, and yet, one that remains forever connected to the Summer’s arrival.
The first cognizant thought that crossed her mind as she stirred from sleep was the vague impression of buzzing floating through her window – an ephemeral thing. It almost seemed like one of those confused nocturnal flights of fancy; images folding into themselves, one after another – neither here nor there. As her wakefulness exorcised the many thoughts that clouded her mind and the fiendish details that existed in the shadows, Anahid found herself in bed, hair tangled, limbs spread, blankets hanging hap hazardously hanging from the bed, pillows spilled across the wooden floor. The woman stared at the floor, the hazy shadow of leafs outside dragging across the window and spilling unto the floor – they looked like little spiders. She sat up slightly, slowly, arguing with her self as sat up on the bed. Night had turned into day, the raging storm ceasing in the middle of the night, replaced instead by the unwavering silence it always seemed to leave behind. Anahid squinted through the bright rays that filtered across the room, last night’s rain now replaced by a warm, steady glow. Outside Anahid could hear the birds chirping, the distinctive sound of the insects becoming clear. With difficulty, she forced herself to sit up, the noises becoming distinct, her dark hair trailing lazily across her side. Eyes traveled to floor absentmindedly, hand raised to push the hair behind her ear. Looking down, she realized that she still wore the same outfit she had last night – surprisingly it was still clean and intact – if a little wrinkled. She must have really been tired, she figured.
Anahid stood – she was not a particularly tall woman, nor did she exude an air of confidence at the time, instead she showed a faint memory of pleasantness, hidden behind her nervous façade. She considered keeping relaxed at this point, an outward display of emotion after last night a failing on her part. Her steps her calm, her expression no more than slightly interested in what surrounded her. What day was it again? She made her way slowly across the room and soon came to stand besides the window. She pulled the window open, a light breeze picking up the curtains in its hand. Her feet firmly planted on the ground, Anahid raised her face to the wind, breathing in the salt-tainted breeze and with it the intoxicating scent of moistened earth. She breathed out, a gentle breath – a man shouted, shattering her quiet reverie, and Anahid turned towards the young man leaning outside his bedroom window. She looked at where he was motioning to someone within his room. She smiled and shut her eyes, feeling as the sun penetrated her body and slowly warmed her up. There was no doubt about it now, Summer had finally arrived.
The next sequence of events for be part of her daily routine – standing besides her window for a while longer, the Jedi took in the aspects that Coruscant lacked – the nature, the peace, the serenity. While Coruscant was indeed beautiful in its own, unique way, the crudely lit signs that stretched across the midnight sky, the whirring of motors crying in the sky, the skyscrapers that competed with mountains in power and might, were easily beaten by the natural beauty that now sat before her eyes. Naboo – a beautiful place indeed, it would be a pity that she would have to leave so quickly. But, such was the life of a Jedi – forever obedient to whatever location their superiors dictated for them to visit. There was no place for disobedience, no place to complain. There was a sigh, followed by the shifting of her body as the Miraluka offspring retreated into the room where she proceeded to dress in the robes that defined the rest of her life: a life of humbleness, aid, honor, and honesty. She dressed quietly, the brown and crème garments placed on top of another, a dark utility belt secured tightly around her waist. She grimaced slightly as she secured her lightsaber around her waist.
It was a given life, Anahid corrected, not a chosen one.
Late some nights, the knight would admit, she would lie wide-awake thinking. Just, thinking. She thought about the parents she never knew, about the Master she had loved and lost, and even whether the Sith were as different as the Jedi considered them to be. But, most of all, Anahid thought about if, given the choice, would she have become a Jedi in the first place? The thoughts haunted her constantly, struck terror into her heart and all she could do was reassure herself; fate had chosen her path wisely, it was not for her to question it – and so, she would drift off to sleep only for the thoughts to return the very next night.
It was fate.
Race: Miraluka/Human Hybrid
Age: 26
Birth place: Naboo, Theed
Height: 5’6’’
Weight: 130 lbs.
Appearance: Plainly speaking Anahid is truly feminine in appearance without a doubt; her figure delicately crafted, particular attention paid on the soft line of her hips, the soft bend of her elbows and knees, the gentle curve of her neck, and the agile wisp of an ankle weighted down in firm balance. Standing no more than five-foot-six, Anahid looks at the world above most of her female counterparts. Smooth stretches of skin, clear and untouched, greet the eye; soft olive skin, unyielding, terribly tempting to touch. Full cheeks, colored often with a shade of rose, bring color to her peaceful façade. Her wide eyes and gentle smile seem almost childish, quality that has always remained, but her sharp tongue and wit reminds the onlooker of her maturity and keen reason. Set on her lips is a never wavering smile, giving many onlookers the idea that she might be laughing at some internal joke that only she could understand – more often than naught, she actually is. As apt for smiling as her full lips are, they can quickly drop into disapproval or displeasure with the same ferocity of a Krayt Dragon.
Set high above rosy cheeks, constantly glittering by either the sun or some other source, are a pair of mischievous eyes – trait only made possible by her father’s marriage to her human mother. A swirl of warm coffee, her eyes are constantly drenched with a bright and expressive appeal; though, upon further examination, you’ll see that her eyes hold no clue as to what is going on through her mind – call it a shield, if you will, because that is exactly what it is. As perfectly capable of seeing as her eyes are, her Miraluka blood brought forth a rather inconvenient trait – for as the sun sets beyond the horizon, she is rendered as blind as any Miraluka and forced to rely on Force Seeing.
A drop of unnaturally dark, silky spread, her hair is, by no means, an after-thought of her persona. The spirals of naturally unruly hair contain a very fine and soft consistency. The dark strands of hair slither down, shimmering softly with the light it might reflect, and abruptly end where the trail of her lower back begins.
As far as outfits come Anahid enjoys of two, clearly distinct sets -- the first being the traditional Jedi robes that she generally sports while in training or during her stays in the Temple. However, whenever she is taken outside the Jedi Temple's walls and she is required to face a challenge in the open world, she opts to wear a more fitting outfit, if you will. Looking more like a thief than a Jedi, the woman finds this outfit rather helpful when traveling to planets on hostile terms with Jedi.
Personality: Most people to have come across Anahid often describe the woman as serene – utterly serene. For the most part, she attributes this characteristic from being raised by the Jedi since she was nothing but a baby, later on, she admits, this trait grew stronger with the fostering of her Arkanian-Offshoot Master, Karem Falensarano. Because of her own serenity, Anahid can be described as being passive-aggressive whenever she were to become upset – while she won’t lose her composure in front of people, she is guilty of throwing snide comments whenever you manage to get under her skin – she’s not particularly proud of it, but, she admits that there is no such thing as perfection and that accidents, such as losing her temper, can happen. Thankfully, most people overlook her passive-aggressiveness, whether it be because she doesn’t appear to be the type of person to do so, or simply because she never loses that smile on her lips.
Putting that aside, Anahid is relatively friendly, finding almost any excuse to talk to people she considers to be particularly interesting. The woman is fond of people, finding their different personalities and upbringings worthwhile. Anahid is seen to be self-reliant, everything she has achieved has been achieved as a result of her own hard work and disposition; she never received anything she didn’t deserve, and she truly preferred it this way.
Faction: Jedi Order
Rank: Knight, Shadow
Lightsaber: Dual-Phase Lightsaber
Color: Light Orange
Practiced Lightsaber forms:
Shii-Cho 5
Makashi 1
Soresu 2
Ataru 0
Shien / Djem So 2
>>Sub-form Backhanded
Niman 0
>>Sub-form Jar-kai, or Dual Wield
Juyo 0
Double Bladed Combat 0
Force-Sensitive Abilities or practices:
Telekinetic: 3
Telepathic: 4
Body: 2
Sense: 6
Protection: 4
Healing: 3
Destruction: 0
Specialized Skills:
Force Sight
Force Deflection
Attributes:
Physical Strength: 4
Intelligence: 5
Speed: 6
Leadership: 4
Unarmed: 3
Melee Weapons: 2
Ranged Weapons: 2
Force Attunement: +3
Bio:
Best of Both Worlds
THE EARLY CHILDHOOD OF ANAHID REISIER
THE EARLY CHILDHOOD OF ANAHID REISIER
As a child, Anahid never knew the strength behind a hug, the power behind a kiss, the warmth behind a smile. In fact, her earliest memories start in the middle of class, reciting the Jedi Code in unison with other younglings. It was not until many years later that the woman would learn of her upbringing. It was during a late Winter night on 3626 BBY before the first snow had fallen, that a fragile cry broke the cold air, lungs gulping down air for the very first time. Choices now seemed so unimportant, so utterly pointless – their love had come to life, the proof being the tiny child that Elayne held in her arms. The father, Alves Reisier, watched in wonder, silenced by what he saw; destiny had give them a precious gift, a daughter. ‘Anahid,’ the name was given by the male Miralukan, he swore he saw the child smile, and so the life of the wide-eyed girl began. Whether she’d stumble through it with awkward, clumsy steps or she flew through it with the inherent ease and grace of a dancer, the path they had created was now hers for her choosing. The first fragile steps down this path were taken in soft leather shoes, which her mother had carefully laced with great love, and soon they turned into staggering steps and a crash into a coffee table that left a little scar in the back of the ear. However, her parents would never see her choose her path.
It was as she turned nine months of age as her parents returned home from a night at the opera that the couple was run over by a landspeeder – the driver, intoxicated from a late night with friends, didn’t even notice the accident. Alves, having been the one closest to the speeder during the impact died instantly; Elayne, on the other hand, died days after the accident. Having no next of kin that could take care of the child, Anahid was placed into an orphanage in the city of Theed; there, many thought, she would remain before she came of age and chose to leave. Yet, no one expected that a visiting Jedi Recruiter, a female Kel Dor by the name of Gure-Dakur, would drift into the orphanage a couple of months later and seeing potential in the child would determine that the best option for Anahid to be brought into the Jedi Temple, where she would be raised and instructed in the ways of the Force.
Running before she could fully walk and yelling before she could talk, Anahid soon turned from the quiet, precious, “bundle of joy” Gure-Dakur had found to a pain-in-the-neck youngling that seemed unable to keep herself out of trouble for more than five seconds. Anahid was loud, energetic, and fearless – bouncing from place to place, always seemingly ready for a challenge. Her inability to listen and readiness to accept the next challenge often got her hurt quite a bit and, as it was only expected, in trouble as well. Many of her peers and teachers even went on to say that it was surprising how the girl managed to learn her lessons at all – the general consensus was the girl was a natural listener and that once she heard it, she could remember what had been said. Thankfully as the girl aged, her childish antics started to dwindle instead replaced by a more mature, calm, even-tempered person, who not only admired the older Jedi, but who also worked hard to, one day, become one as well.
The Jedi Code
THE APPRENTICESHIP
THE APPRENTICESHIP
Years passed and to the surprise of many, the once loud, overly active child had now successfully become a wonderful student – respectful, quiet, and one who followed commands to the very best of her abilities. Nevertheless, it was as she had begun training in the basics of the Force, that her knack for Force Sight began to develop. Already having been able to see forms and shapes that exuded the Force from their bodies at night, a natural ability that her Miraluka lineage had brought, with the proper instruction, Anahid began to get a better grasp of this ability compared to her older counterparts. And while Anahid took great interest in the mysteries of the Force and the abilities it gave, she seemed to be less engaged when it came to her swordsmanship. It was not that she wasn’t particularly good at it, in fact she was quite average for her age in the field, but it seemed like Anahid was more interested in dodging and parrying attacks rather than attacking herself. After consulting with her instructors in numerous occasions, she was finally convinced to ‘try, at the very least.’ Grudgingly she accepted.
Day in and day out the girl would force herself to pick up a training saber and have a friendly encounter against another Youngling, and day after day she found herself growing more restless and tired. She really didn’t like fighting. Lossrk, a Bothan classmate with ashen fur and bright, expressive eyes soon saw her frustration and offered to help her. While she accepted his offer gladly, Anahid never quite grew passionate of offensive swordplay, to her Instructor’s dismay, though she did well to learn Shii-Cho thanks to Lossrk. Even though his attempt to further ‘instruct’ his classmate in the lightsabers techniques had been all in vain, a true and lasting friendship came from the many days spent together and inside jokes only they could understand.
As their thirteenth year approached, Lossrk began to mention the Initiate Trials, speaking in bright, quick verses – bouncing, or so Anahid thought, at the possibility of having a Jedi Knight take him. Anahid found it adorable, truth be told, and encouraged her friend to participate in the following trial. But Lossrk wouldn’t have it, saying that the only way he would do it was if she did as well – didn’t she want to become a Jedi as well? Of course she did, but Anahid knew that only the best were chosen, and Lossrk, without a doubt, was one of the leading younglings; Anahid, on the other hand, lacked a lot of the qualifications. But he insisted and so, she eventually accepted. The Initiate Trials weren’t particularly difficult; in fact, they were not that engaging – the first trial consisting of reciting and understanding the Jedi Code, the second one having a staged fight that could reflect her discipline in battle, and the third aiding an older woman locate her missing pet. What came afterwards, however, was the real test. After finishing with the Initiate Trials, Lossrk and Anahid both received the option to participate on the annual Apprentice Tournament, where Jedi looking to take on an apprentice would be gathering.
While the previous Trial had seemed cumbersome to Anahid, the possibility of impressing a Jedi during the Apprentice Trials certainly caught her eye. Under the supervision of their Instructors, Lossrk and Anahid began to practice on a daily basis, perfecting their techniques as best as they could. The day of the tournament, the two felt confident enough to make it through the rounds intact.
The battles that came were tough as thirty-two younglings were split into pairs and pitted against one another. Their strength, speed, stamina varied from one to the next – but neither Anahid or Lossrk gave up, both facing their opponents bravely. Somehow Anahid managed to get through Six rounds intact, but when it was her turn to face the Zabrak Youngling by the name of Xiszek, his intensity and ferocity in battle soon defeated her. Anahid was disappointed to say the least – she had hoped to reach the Eighth round, where, she dreamt of being recruited by a wise and all-knowing Master. But, the minute she felt herself falling and she turned to see the training saber mere inches from her face, her heart dropped in disappointment. It was all over.
While the fight was over for Anahid, the girl did not leave, cheering from the sidelines as Lossrk continued to face opponents until the very last round. As the free-for-all was announced, Anahid felt her heart beat madly against her ribcage every time Lossrk came close to being touched by a training sabre. Minutes dragged by until all but two stood, Lossrk and the Zabrak, Xiszek. The battle was fierce, lasting well over an hour, but at the end her long time friend, the Bothan Lossrk came victorious. Catching the eye of a Twi'lek master, Lossrk was soon taken as a Padawan. Anahid felt defeated, but not heartbroken – she had tried her best; but before the girl left the room to consider her next options, she was approached by what she later described as a beautiful man. With flowing white hair pulled back into a kempt ponytail and an icy-gray gaze, the young Knight, later identified as Karem Falserano, was interested in taking her as his Padawan – as a gift to begin this apprenticeship, the Arkanian-offshoot granted Anahid with the two crystals that would eventually become part of her lightsaber.
As years came and went, the duo became inseparable, finding an equal interest in using the Force rather than the brutality of the Lightsabers. This interest in Anahid’s part, encouraged Karem to eventually begin training her in the art of force deflection, technique which, he too, had inherited from his Master. Eventually, his technique and strength gained him the status of a Jedi Sentinel – which later became a status as a Shadow Jedi. Yet, his promotion to a Shadow came with a drawback – while the male could take her on most missions with him, certain tasks proved to be too dangerous to the young Padawan and, instead, would leave her in the care of other Masters. Eventually a prolonged mission forced the Jedi to leave Anahid behind – it would be the last time she saw him in over four years.
Torn
BREAKING THE CODE
BREAKING THE CODE
At the age of twenty, still in the care of Master Roman, a human Guardian, Anahid found herself in a Mission in Nal Hutta, where an extremist of Mandalorian decent, attempted to initiate a conflict between the Jedi and the Hutts. The two did well to stay under the radar, quietly inquiring about the Mandalorian by the name of Carja Jinn; no information about him was available and, even if it was, no one was saying anything. In fact, the more they inquired about Carja Jinn, the more it seemed like the man was nothing but a myth. Exhausting their resources and feeling desperate, the two entered a bar where, some had mentioned, a shady character had been seen. Of course, being in Hutt territory, most of the characters you are going to come across can be described as ‘shady,’ but, as far as they knew, it was their last resource.
The bar was filled with a frail haze constructed of gray gabaki, cigarra, and marcan herb leafs; it was an overwhelming aroma, a sickly sweetness that drifted lazily from the ashen tip of crumbled cigarillos, secured pipes, as well as Hookah pipes. Every minute time dragged by, the frail construct grew shorter, its smoke now diffused into the surrounding atmosphere. Making their way in cautiously, the Padawan and Master approached the bartender and settled in a pair of stools. While Master Roman quietly inquired about the Mandalorian, Anahid did well on sitting. Truth be told, the woman did not look to be particularly employed – save for the few times her eyes wandered amongst the many inhabitants that occupied the crude room. The music was pumping – females’ twisted forms parading about like twisted birds stuck in a fanciful flight; her eyes never strayed to them more than once, nevertheless, her attention shifting towards the males these previously mentioned females clung to – they talked softly amongst themselves, inconspicuous glances thrown in their direction as they wrapped their arms around the scantly dressed forms. Again, her attention never remained and instead refocused on the Master that was settled besides her. The bartender, Roman would explain, had heard nothing of the Mandalorian or any particular character of questionable descent. They needed to reassemble, Roman said, and check with their sources to see if the man was indeed still there.
As the duo stood to leave, however, their bodies suddenly tensed – in an instant their lightsabers were drawn just in time to reflect two blaster bolts aimed at them. When Anahid finally lifted her gaze to see the one that was shooting, she was met by the tips of drawn blaster pistols – seems like they had walked right into the wolves’ den. She grimaced slightly and clicked her tongue as she rose to a stance. They were outnumbered, of that there was no doubt – she glanced back at Roman who, in turn, looked back at her. Their options were clear – fight and risk having the Mandalorian disappear in the midst of the fight or be captured and finally come to meet the face behind the name. Without exchanging words, the two retracted their lightsabers – from which they were quickly torn – and were bound; not precisely like the duo would have liked things to go.
Captured, Anahid and Roman were lead out of the bar and deep into the stagnant marshlands that now spread through Nal Hutta. The heavy pollution found in the air as a result of strip-mining operations and heavy industrialization made it hard to breathe as they were dragged out from Bilbousa and into the Guarja Shipyards.
The stillness that engulfed this location was sickening, to say the least; no noise was heard save the rushing of the wind and the creaking of metal as it constricted in the colder night air. Roman and Anahid were led across the shipyard and into the distance, where the faint silhouette of an erected tent could be seen. Inside they found a crudely planned ‘control room,’ if you could even call it that, where a couple of tables were set. Besides one of these tables stood a group of people huddled in silence, studying a map before them. Unaware of the Jedi and their captors that had just entered the room, it would take a couple of minutes before anyone noticed their presence. Finally, a man looked up. He could be described as intimidating, of that there was no doubt, but it was not for size or girth. In fact, in size he was quite average, no taller than five-nine. Yet, it was his hardened jaw, adorned with a shiny scar that crept up his chin and down below his shirt, and wild eyes that truly struck Anahid. He stood straight and spoke fluently, a well-educated man, one that commanded attention and who received it. He spoke of them like he would of a thorn -- a nuisance, an annoyance, something that needed to be thrown away.
Turning away from them, Carja, they assumed, called a man – a tall figure with shaggy white hair, a bit of stubble, and icy gray eyes. Her heart stopped and a gasp was caught in her lungs – those eyes, she could never forget those eyes. The same man that had taken her as his Padawan seven years ago, the same man that had left her under Roman’s care, the same man whose safety she worried for was standing before them – dirtier, older, unrecognizable, but still the same Karem. Of course, he wasn’t referred to as Karem, instead he was called Marak, and was shortly instructed to take them out of the tent and to debrief them. Without hesitation Marak agreed and shortly after led them away.
Once alone, Karem questioned them about their visit to Nal Hutta to which Roman explained that he and Anahid had been looking for Carja Jinn who is said to be planning an attack against the Hutt and making the Jedi appear responsible. Karem is unmoved by what he heard already knowing about the attack himself. Having heard the rumors of the extremist, the Jedi Council had instructed Karem to try and infiltrate the group, from where he would continue to provide them with information whether or not it should be considered a threat. Knowing that the mission would be not only long but dangerous, the Council had suggested to leave Anahid in hands of another Master in the meantime – he accepted and days later he left for Nal Hutta. It was by pure per chance that Roman would later be assigned to the same mission Karem had received. From Karem they learned that the attack was to take place sooner than originally expected and that, in fact, it was going to be at a grander scale – it would be necessary to take action soon. But, for now, they would rest; Karem would return the moment the attack would take place.
Later that night as Roman and Anahid drifted in an out of sleep, a thunderous roar shook the camp. The startled Jedi awoke as anguished cries erupted from beyond locked doors – men screamed, orders yelled to none in particular, as the roaring of fire and crunching metal became more distinct. The roar, now recognizable as an explosion, returned, this time closer to the Jedi than before. As the startled Jedi attempted to make sense of what was occurring outside, the door to their holding cell snapped open. Heavy footsteps followed, signaling the incoming thread of a couple of Carja’s brigands. They said that it was their fault, whatever that was, and motioned for them to get down. He growled at them with anger, throwing curses and spitting in their direction. Again, they were instructed to get down, slowly but surely they followed the order. Behind her, Anahid heard them fumbling, cursing, and talking – it seemed as if they were unsure of what they should do with them. Finally, the sound of a blaster gun trigger announced their decision. Click. Anahid readied herself for what was to come, but before the gun could sound, the distinctive sizzling of a lightsaber expanding cut through the air. She felt air rushing as the figures turned around – shots were fired – followed by a heavy thud. The two turned to meet Karem standing a few feet behind. He apologized for his tardiness as he helped Anahid up, handing Roman his lightsaber. Handing Anahid her own, Karem explained that he had set a couple of bombs to detonate on Carja’s cargo ship to create confusion; a later bomb close to Guarja’s entrance was detonated. In midst of all the chaos, the Jedi managed to escape, forcing a furious Carja to retreat, leaving behind his men, ammunition, and plans.
Returning to Bilbousa, the Jedi readied their ship to return to the Temple once more. It was then that Master and Apprentice, after being separated for more than four years, were reunited. Now being twenty years old, Anahid proved to have grown into more than a capable Padawan. After Karem’s return, their role as master and Padawan was reestablished – years passed and with them the relationship grew. But unlike many relationships that were solidified into their roles, Karem and Anahid’s relationship evolved. It seemed to happen so slowly, so gradually that neither saw it coming -- it was not until a faithful night in visiting Naboo that their relationship was shattered. That night the two saw the world as one -- fell into uninhibited passions that the Jedi had frowned so much upon. But neither was worried about the outcome, to Karem the answer lay next to him that night. Afterwards he began speaking about leaving the order, the two of them together – start fresh, but the opportunity would never come.
Karem Falensarano
THE RISE INTO KNIGHTHOOD
THE RISE INTO KNIGHTHOOD
The new bond they had created grew stronger with each passing month and soon the two were readying themselves to come forth to the Council and announce their departure. In what was supposed to be their last mission, a check-up on the Datooine Jedi Enclave, the two found themselves under attack once their ship broke across the sky. The ship went down. Battered, but mostly unscathed, the Jedi exited the ship with difficulty only to be met by the familiar face of Carja Jinn. Even years after the Nal Hutta incident, the man had never quite forgiven the Jedi, in fact, he had turned his attention to the ones who had foiled his attack, especially the one who had been his right hand. After years of searching, waiting, and watching – finally, as the duo had left the temple and stopped on the planet of Vinsoth for fuel – there, one of the members of Carja’s movement recognized the two and informed Carja of who he had seen. Carja ordered him to follow them and to tell him where they were headed. Upon further investigation the man found that the Jedi were bound to Datooine. Again, he came in contact with Carja and explained what he knew, Carja then proceeded to travel to Datooine himself where he prepared a ‘nice little welcome’ for the two. He was a little disappointed, Carja admitted with a grin, he was expecting the Jedi to put more of a fight. The two were all-too-happy to comply. Speeding in opposite directions, the Jedi drew the lightsabers and engaged.
Anahid fought to the best of her abilities returning blaster bolts, but her ability to fight multiple foes was lacking, to say the least, and the form she had chosen to do so, Makashi, didn't help her as much as she wished. She doesn’t remember much except a burning sensation starting in the middle of her back – she remembers her body collapsing, the pain unbearable. Her body slammed against the ship as she held on with all of her strength, but she slipped, enveloped in complete agony. Her head spun as she felt the butt of a rifle strike the back of her head. The pressure on her body increased with enough force that she felt her body twisting, caving in upon itself. Horror and panic replaced her surprise, and now were lodged in the back of her throat. She wanted to scream, to yell out, what the hell had happened? And then, just as suddenly as it began, everything stopped. A trickle of warmth ran down her back. Breathing shakily, Anahid used her right hand to press against the back of her head. It came away with blood. Her world swayed, green and blue and vivid through the glassy mirage of her eyes. Her quiet breaths became heavier and heavier, her still form shaking violently as she saw the figures circling her. She tells herself that this couldn’t be the end; it had to be a nightmare. She feels them getting closer, blasters rising as she attempts to move – one kicked her as she felt herself go down. It felt almost like a bucket of cold water hit her as she fell to the ground, or thousands of sharp little needles piercing through her skin. The bodies moved, thrown away from her as Karem ran to her. She remembers Karem’s voice faintly – he was screaming. As her vision blurred, she watched him turn – then, the darkness came. Before she knew it her senses had given: smell, touch, taste, sight. Darkness overcame her. Was this the end?
The shrinking part of her begged for release in death, but as the voice reminded her, she no longer knew how to die – so she would wait and watch and hear. The world would change but she would remain – she had no option, absolutely no say.
She remembered the moment the darkness came well, she remembered its overwhelming presence. Anahid found the presence to be exhilarating as well as terrifying. Later asked by Lossrk about her experience, Anahid explained that the experience with the darkness spoke to the primal instincts – to the desire, the fear, the terror of losing control, a vertiginous experience – nightmarish. She remembers every synapse being fully awake when in the darkness. Everything, she explained, passed through her mind in an instant – recognized, understood, becoming a part of her as nothing else could.
And then the darkness stopped, replaced instead by the vague impression of light. In the beginning, Anahid could make out nothing within the light – no shapes, no forms, only white. As her eyes adjusted, she was soon greeted by a vast ceiling. Upon further examination she realized that the ceiling extended downward into a crisp white room.
The opening of a door broke the silence of the room so suddenly that Anahid shifted suddenly. She met the intruder, Master Roman. His face was grim and bitter, sunken and white – almost as if he hadn’t been eating or sleeping very well. He sat across from her, took her hand in his – the words were simple and direct, ‘I’m sorry.’ She didn’t need to hear anymore, Karem had passed on. She felt her body go numb, gripped by an invisible force. Her heart was aching, her stomach twisted in a knot. Her body shook, but she was unable to cry at first – it couldn’t be true. She shook her head violently as it finally sunk, Karem couldn’t be, and he shouldn’t be dead. But it was true; after Anahid had lost consciousness the man had continued to fight on, disarming and defeating the opposing force. Yet, in the battle, he was mortally wounded and had died besides her, covering her body with his own.
His funeral had been a couple of days ago, Roman informed her, she had been unconscious through it; actually, it was surprising that she had woken up so soon – they were expecting a couple of more days before she began to stir. As she turned 22, she came to accept the routine that did not include Karem anymore – he would be close to turning 32. The world around her soon became a blur – the missions and lessons had little meaning; when her time came to take the Jedi trials before the order, she remembers being distracted – they spoke about waving the trial of courage because of Nal Hutta and the trial of the flesh not only for the battle that had wounded her, but also for the loss of her master – but she remembers little about the day after that. She faintly remembers the trials, the Trial of Skill where her lightsaber technique was studied as she fought a clever simulation created from stored data. The trial of spirit came next, where she was forced to see within herself – plunging deep into meditation, the Padawan saw nothingness, a vast emptiness that had taken over her soul the instant she learned of Karem’s loss. She attempted to defeat it, overcome the darkness that she saw. It was painful to experience it, to live it first-hand, but it was this same misery that showed her that this could not be the way. Regardless of her loss, regardless of her pain, Karem had sacrificed himself to save her and she couldn’t let it all be in vain. Pushing the darkness away, she managed to confine it in the recesses of her soul – not fully gone, but not fully there either. Her growth into Knighthood was later announced and concluded as her Padawan braid was shorn off with a lightsaber.
It Was Fate
FACES OF THE SAME COIN
FACES OF THE SAME COIN
There is a stillness Anahid has recently discovered, a form of acceptance towards her loss and her path. While doubt upon her decision still continues to haunt her on a daily basis, she has made peace with what she has become. In steps similar to those that her beloved Master Karem had taken, she too became a Shadow Jedi. The more she travels and works to discover the reason behind the Sith’s nature and the origins of the Dark Side, the more Anahid wonders if there is a real difference between Jedi and Sith. Faces of the same coin, she calls them – opposing forces, unable to see eye-to-eye, but unable to exist without the other. Is it possible, she wonders, that any other feel the same way?
RP Sample: It was not unusual for rain to fall the last day of Spring in Naboo; most assumed it was the season waving goodbye to the gentle valley as it departed for the year. It was a beautiful sight, this last shower, starting early in the morning and lasting well past midnight. In rare occasions the shower would continue until the next day. And just as suddenly as the rain had begun, it ended as the first light of the summer sun broke the sky. What would happen next would continue throughout the rest of the summer, a beautiful sight to all the residents of Theeb. As if on cue, after lying still beneath the warm earth for seventeen years, small figures break the ground, their wiggling bodies making their way up the available root of trees. Slowly, the odd critters make their way up, attaching themselves to the bark of the trees – their limbs harden, bodies darken, all before a dainty, white figure starts pushing up from their backs. Suddenly, the creatures transforms, the most obvious change now being the wrinkly wings that begin to straighten and dry. It takes several hours for this process to finalize, but once it’s done, it is clear that summer has arrived – the insects begin to sing their song. It is a gentle melody, very similar to that the previous showers provided, and yet, one that remains forever connected to the Summer’s arrival.
The first cognizant thought that crossed her mind as she stirred from sleep was the vague impression of buzzing floating through her window – an ephemeral thing. It almost seemed like one of those confused nocturnal flights of fancy; images folding into themselves, one after another – neither here nor there. As her wakefulness exorcised the many thoughts that clouded her mind and the fiendish details that existed in the shadows, Anahid found herself in bed, hair tangled, limbs spread, blankets hanging hap hazardously hanging from the bed, pillows spilled across the wooden floor. The woman stared at the floor, the hazy shadow of leafs outside dragging across the window and spilling unto the floor – they looked like little spiders. She sat up slightly, slowly, arguing with her self as sat up on the bed. Night had turned into day, the raging storm ceasing in the middle of the night, replaced instead by the unwavering silence it always seemed to leave behind. Anahid squinted through the bright rays that filtered across the room, last night’s rain now replaced by a warm, steady glow. Outside Anahid could hear the birds chirping, the distinctive sound of the insects becoming clear. With difficulty, she forced herself to sit up, the noises becoming distinct, her dark hair trailing lazily across her side. Eyes traveled to floor absentmindedly, hand raised to push the hair behind her ear. Looking down, she realized that she still wore the same outfit she had last night – surprisingly it was still clean and intact – if a little wrinkled. She must have really been tired, she figured.
Anahid stood – she was not a particularly tall woman, nor did she exude an air of confidence at the time, instead she showed a faint memory of pleasantness, hidden behind her nervous façade. She considered keeping relaxed at this point, an outward display of emotion after last night a failing on her part. Her steps her calm, her expression no more than slightly interested in what surrounded her. What day was it again? She made her way slowly across the room and soon came to stand besides the window. She pulled the window open, a light breeze picking up the curtains in its hand. Her feet firmly planted on the ground, Anahid raised her face to the wind, breathing in the salt-tainted breeze and with it the intoxicating scent of moistened earth. She breathed out, a gentle breath – a man shouted, shattering her quiet reverie, and Anahid turned towards the young man leaning outside his bedroom window. She looked at where he was motioning to someone within his room. She smiled and shut her eyes, feeling as the sun penetrated her body and slowly warmed her up. There was no doubt about it now, Summer had finally arrived.
The next sequence of events for be part of her daily routine – standing besides her window for a while longer, the Jedi took in the aspects that Coruscant lacked – the nature, the peace, the serenity. While Coruscant was indeed beautiful in its own, unique way, the crudely lit signs that stretched across the midnight sky, the whirring of motors crying in the sky, the skyscrapers that competed with mountains in power and might, were easily beaten by the natural beauty that now sat before her eyes. Naboo – a beautiful place indeed, it would be a pity that she would have to leave so quickly. But, such was the life of a Jedi – forever obedient to whatever location their superiors dictated for them to visit. There was no place for disobedience, no place to complain. There was a sigh, followed by the shifting of her body as the Miraluka offspring retreated into the room where she proceeded to dress in the robes that defined the rest of her life: a life of humbleness, aid, honor, and honesty. She dressed quietly, the brown and crème garments placed on top of another, a dark utility belt secured tightly around her waist. She grimaced slightly as she secured her lightsaber around her waist.
It was a given life, Anahid corrected, not a chosen one.
Late some nights, the knight would admit, she would lie wide-awake thinking. Just, thinking. She thought about the parents she never knew, about the Master she had loved and lost, and even whether the Sith were as different as the Jedi considered them to be. But, most of all, Anahid thought about if, given the choice, would she have become a Jedi in the first place? The thoughts haunted her constantly, struck terror into her heart and all she could do was reassure herself; fate had chosen her path wisely, it was not for her to question it – and so, she would drift off to sleep only for the thoughts to return the very next night.
It was fate.
