amid the dust of past conquest (open to observers)

[Neology]

Novus watched the duel's beginning with some interest, despite catching only about half of the banter that passed between the combatants. At first the proceedings were no more then expected, perhaps even tamer then most by Sith standards – probing touches within the force, like dark flashes to her inner perceptions, with barbs of conversation between. A test of each other's defenses, perhaps listening for the strain in the opponent's voice? Idly, she wondered if fatigue would be noticeable in the Falleen's telepathic speech, since such wouldn't be dependent on one's breathing. She made a mental note to ask Visari later and briefly took stock of the new arrivals. Charlill, 'Shard' as he affected himself, had followed up from her office, of course. And there was the Noghri, Cho Wroth, that had arrived back from Ziost the other day; Novus still had plans to visit the icy planet. The others Novus did not recognize but anticipated speaking to before the day was out.

As her focus was on the Rilan woman, something strange happened. Raeg's natural voice grated upon her ears in a brief outburst and then something else, sickly and grasping through the force seemed to fixate on the winged alien. Moments later was the Miraluka's voice, angry and plaintive. So much, so far was fine – it was that Charlill acted on his own initiative that pricked the Arkanian's sense of honor, caused her to act somewhat on impulse. Even as the one called 'Shard' ripped at the edges of the Falleen's mind, Novus threw herself up and outward, her presence in the force spreading like ice water pouring from a sieve, then solidifying like a shield to buffer the duelist from the other's attack. Charlill's madness was a repulsive thing, sliding like oil against her impromptu defenses and dragging some some small reflection of Novus back with it; cold and sharp, like a wound from a vibroknife seconds before the mind registers the pain.

The Dark Lady made a slight hiss through her teeth, pale eyes closed for the moment, the dark side coiling about her as she drew it back in. ”Charlill Sylvorr, I asked you here to witness the proceedings and nothing more. Anything further I will take as a personal offense to the Order and react accordingly.” She made a gesture to one of her guards, who moved to stand somewhat behind the Miraluka, silent and vaguely threatening in mien. Novus fixed her attention on Raeg then, her voice taking a dangerous tone. ”There has been enough concession made to your weakness. The duel will go on, but hear this; I command you to fight with your own strengths and nothing more, for that is what you should be attempting to prove.”

The arrival of Eurachis and Renata proved an pleasant distraction, providing the Arkanian something less frustrating to dwell on. At Eurachis's question she made a face, scrunching up her nose at the last bit. ”If this is something so simple as that, no one bothered to tell me. But go on, what do you wish to bet on? The victor, or that no matter the outcome, this Falleen's angered enough of our dear Initiates to get his throat slit at a moment's inattention?” Novus smiled slightly, speaking in velvet tones. At the man's mention of his availability, the Arkanian mumbled something to the effect of 'but what would Paxis say' and glanced back to Visari and Raeg.

”You may continue.”

[Hotel]

At the sudden protection over her mind and the loss of Raeg's presense, Shandari stumbled backwards. Luckilly the wall was right behind her, and she leaned against it for support. She looked at Shard and the strange being, and nodded to them both. Then her mind touched Shard's again. "I shouldn't have overexerted myself while working out this evening. I should have put up a better fight..." Her breathing seemed slightly labored, though she had recovered from falling back. She straightened up, but still was against the wall, watching the fight. She glared daggers at Raeg, but pulled her eyes away, not wanting to reach her boiling point and do to him what she did to her former master.

Two more of those she had sensed from the other day had joined the first. The white haired woman stood and told off both the combatant and Shard for interfering. Her eyes watched her as she spoke, then turned to Shard. Gratitude showed on her face, something rarely seen on it. A soft smile touched her lips, and she went to lean on his shoulder once more. She closed her eyes and just listened to the combat.

[Leto]

Raeg was bored. So very bored. It had been interesting to begin with, but this little game of cat and mouse, with the roles constantly changing, had become boring. Of course Visari was not thinking that he would be so easily fooled? The illusion was subtle, but it was there. The life that Netellus had sent him was not him own. How expected. Raeg processed the information. Way too clichéed. Probably from some of those cheap holofilms produced on Coruscant nowadays. Raeg felt himself going down to the ground again, now hovering a few inches above it. He looked at Visari and rolled his eyes upward in a way that might have caused someone like Shard to slit his throat. Of course, Netellus would not be affected, but he felt that it was expected of him to do such things.

Netellus spoke to him. And then, suddenly, he felt something attack him. It was short, but violent. The pain was great, but his features did not change the slightest. Most of his neural system had been set out of function by his mutation. The Rilan had disappeared from his area of attention. Oh well. He feeled that it might be time to answer Netellus. She is a pawn, just like most of them. A tool, if you will. Also, as I recall, you wanted a minor demonstration of my prowess? There, have that. It will not satisfy you, but then again, nothing will.

So Netellus... His inner voice was just as much without any kind of tone or emotion as before. Where to go from here? He regarded the newcomers. They looked important, for they stepped right up to the Lady Novus. He cared little for them, although he did recognize the fact that these persons would mean a great deal to him in the future. He turned back to Netellus. I think that we have established what is commonly known as a stalemate. No matter what I do, you will parry my attack. No matter what you do, I will turn into an advantage for me, which you in turn, will parry. Tell me, what do we do now?

You may not have noticed, but I have no regard for anything but the fact that I was technically not breaking the rules. She was about to become an extension of myself, and as such, not someone else. See it whatever way you wish, Netellus, but it was not cheating. Technically speaking, of course. Now, it does puzzle me how everyone in the room seemed to be able to sense it, for it was very, very little - she did not struggle much - but it must have been my own mistake. While he was speaking, he had prepared something for Netellus. As he said the final sentence, he immersed the Epicanthix into a torture method known as Torture by Chagrin. It was a rare technique, and as it actively turned the subject's mind on the subject itself, Visari would not so easily be able to relate this to raeg. He would eventually, but he would have to work for it. Raeg looked at Novus. So when do we know whih one is the winner?

[Meira]

Renata settled comfortably in her seat, not even batting an eye as Novus stood to deal with an apparent break in the rules. The combatants and onlookers involved were chided, and Novus returned to her seat. Renata smiled at the woman, a quick thought of "boys will be boys" sent from her mind the the Arkanian woman's mind. The thought, of course, could also be related to their estemed colegue.

Eurachis did manage to elicite a slight chuckle from the red headed woman. His arrogance, she knew, was well fed. Though she couldn't imagine anyone getting the chance to stoke it, as often as he did it himself. It seemed no one would be able to get a word in edgewise.

You have found me out, Eurachis. She said, her voice not changing from its bored tone, but her face reflecting a mock surprise.

Don't tell Veratos. He would kill you if he knew. But it is true. I want you. I need you. Oh baby, oh baby.

The last four words were drawn out with a yawn as Renata motioned her hand in the air as if to say etc., etc. And she turned her head away and back to the combatants as she trailed off.

But it seemed that she had missed the main of the action, as the two combatants seemed to pause and appraise each other again. The deformed Falleen didn't speak, but perhaps he simply wasn't speaking physically. Whatever. Renata turned her focus back to her compatriots, lowering her voice and leaning in to Novus' ear.

Novus, I'll take a wager with you. Our dear Eurachis will complement himself no less than three times before the next move is made in this duel.

[Rugs]

{Jeez, this ended up being quite long D:}

Visari lifted an eyebrow as he watched the others take notice of Raeg's actions. One of them, a Noghri, moved to stand behind Shard and whispered something, just as Visari felt the Miraluka release the bonds he kept his power locked down under. Visari could feel Shard's assault coming, and right before Shard launched out at Raeg, he said merely "You've just pissed off someone you really shouldn't have." Then Shard attacked, tearing at the strings that Raeg had attempted to force around the Rilan woman's mind. Visari could feel the heat of Shard's rage, much like one would feel the warmth of a large fire in a fireplace burning from the other side of the room.

As Shard's onslaught continued, Visari made his move. He reached out, laying coils around the little Falleen, but his trap was not a mental one--it was quite physical. Given the Falleen's reluctance to try to engage Visari with the more brutal side of the Force, Visari had come to believe that the Falleen's ability to defend against physical attacks was moderate at best, much unlike his own. No, no, he thought to himself as he wove his bonds around the little creature, you have to be great at mental and physical defense, little Falleen. By only being strong in one, you leave yourself open to another. As he laid his precise bonds in place in the air around the Falleen, he reached out again, covering the the area around him with a sort of blanket of the Force that could be pulled taught at his command. There was, after all, no need to take unnecessary chances. He held his attack loosely around the Falleen, until he felt the moment to strike would be right. Even so, he kept his mental barriers strong, knowing that it was only a matter of time until his foe would try to strike out again.

He noted the arrival of the others he had seen before Iniquitous at the ceremony not too long ago, and of Novus' intervention against Shard and reprimanding of Raeg. "It comes down to a matter of trust, Vashin," he said in response to Raeg's apparent ire at so many acting out against his attempt to take control of the Rilan woman. "Why should you join us if no one believes that you can be trusted to look after more than your own ambitions? We all have them, yes, but we are here to join under the banner that Iniquitous has raised, and I do not think anyone would trust you farther than they could throw you after that little display of yours." A sly grin etched across his face. "Besides, Vashin, there's no telling what her ability to defend against mental attacks is. For all we know, you could merely have been going for the one among us with the weakest defense." Visari started to pace around, his cane ringing lightly as it tapped against the stone beneath his feet. But even so, he kept his defenses up, and held his snare in place, still waiting for the correct moment to strike out. "If you wanted to show your vaunted ability, why not strike out with those that have proven ability at such things? Shard for example--oh and I would advise to not make an enemy out of the man, though it may be to late for that--or the Lady Novus?" Visari stopped and turned to face Raeg again. "Though those attempts would more likely than not end much worse for you than what you just tried to pull... But ah! What if they worked, my friend? What a show that would be!" He gestured with a semblance of grandness, and his baritone voice had the same tone to it, though there was the slightest edge of sarcasm to it. "Surely then, none could deny the power that one such as you wields!" His hand fell down before him to rest on the head of his cane once more, and his face sagged a bit, as if realizing a sad truth. "But alas... that is not within your ability is it? I rather doubt that would gain you anything more than being turned into a green little streak along the stones... And so you struck out at an unknown, at least to me; I do not know the extent of her ability. But you claim to be intelligent, and I'm sure you see my point; if you wanted to prove the greatness of your abilities, then mayhaps you should have tried to make one of the established powers a 'tool.'" He smiled wryly at Raeg again as he continued. "Besides, wasn't it you who claimed that your skills were almost certainly greater than those of the former Dark Overlord? Yes, 'with 90 % per cent certainty greater than his ever was or will be,' that's what you said. Surely then, you could aim a bit higher?" With that, he sighed, and let that talk come to an end. "And as to why so many noticed, perhaps you are not as subtle as you think yourself to be." He shrugged dismissively and continued.

"But where to go from here indeed," he said pondering on the subject. "After all, I find myself wondering if your intention is still to join us, or to make a show to everyone else about how great you are..." he let that hang for a moment, and the tone of his voice made it perfectly clear that he meant it as a question. "After all, you have made a great deal of enemies in a very short amount of time. I would be quite amazed if you could make it through a week here without someone cutting your throat out. Surely you can see as much?"

As he spoke a strange thing happened. Some memories flashed through his mind, though they were safely locked away from the view of the nosy little Falleen. They were memories he had long since come to terms with, and their presence merely puzzled him for a moment. How interesting, he thought before pushing them away. That they had come up seemingly from nowhere was strange, but he could deal with it. Whatever it was, he could deal with it later. As they pushed away, he noted that the Falleen turned his attention to Novus. Now was the time to strike. He moved his snare into being, closing his bonds and the large 'blanket' of the Force around the Falleen simultaneously. "That is an interesting question, Raeg," Visari said as his bonds closed. "I find myself wondering the same." He did not hold back, and they fell swift and hard, with the force of a collapsing building. As they fell, he pulled them taught--he intended to keep the little freak from moving at all. At the same time his snares closed, he launched out with another wave of Force Lightning, this one much more powerful than anything he had used so far, and spreading out in a cone before him. Even if it hit, it would not kill; he had not forgotten the rules.

[Foxfire]

Standing so close to Shard and his explosion of insanity, Cho let the wave flow over him. As it did he gathered parts of the explosion to add to his attacks in the future. He now knew that being here now was a good choice even though no blood was let.

Cho's mind sub-sided. Reflecting on the power and the color he missed Novus' correction of those in attendance. Looking at the Rilan female Cho tried to sooth the darkened eddies that the attacks took on her. Not caring for the duel any more Cho stood looking at the wings of the rilan.

So nice and soft but so very frail. Protect your self better for not many get another try.

He left the rilan and walked back by the thrones. Noticing that two others had arrived the other Dark Lord and Lady. Walking to Novus Cho bowed.

Lord and Ladies...... Sorry for the inconvenience of ones action. It will not happen again I take my leave of this duel. Not because of interfering but it raises the blood lust with in me. Another action may result in my gutting this little fish.

Once again Cho bowed and slowly made his way away from the duel. Though having his being concealed in the force he could tell that the matter would not go well if it happened again. On the off chance that some thing did happen again he strayed away to where he could see but not hear. Resting in a crag Cho opened him self up to the force again. Instead of watching the duel he turned his attention to the Dark Lady Renata. He gently brushed his cold force presence upon her mind to see how dark a Dark Lady's force truly is.

[Cirith An'Gol]

Xerron guided his ship down to the rocky red soil of Korriban, landing just outside the Temple grounds. He'd just gotten back from his trip in the company of Shard and his crew aboard the Midnight Sun. He'd broken off a little early after getting his pay and decided to relax a little and work on improving his force techniques, as well as buying some necessities, like a slaver remote for the ship and a deep hooded black cloak. He knew Zaaltarr, his Wookiee friend, was somewhere in the deeper confines of the ship meditating, as usual. He sent him a quick force message and left the ship, seeking out the large gathering that had been drawing him through the force back to the temple. He clipped his two lightsabers to his belt and drew his cloak around him, hitting the button to lower the ramp with a gentle nudge from the force.
He walked out the setting red sun hitting him square in the eyes as the ramp lowered, his cloak blew around him like great wings as a wind picked up. He stepped onto the dry and hard red soil and started toward the temple.

As he walked toward the temple he stretched out his senses, trying to refine his force techniques, make them more powerful and more accurate. Before too long he was at the edge of the Temple grounds and making his way to the center, drawn by nothing other than the pull of the force. He looked up from beneath his two hoods and halfmask, his eyes glowing softly like red coals in the shade of the hoods. He clamped down on his force presence, not wanting to risk appearing arrogant, if he could even appear that way to anyone. He knew how weak he really was in the way of the force, he also knew his strengths and how to use them to fell larger foes. He looked throught the crowd and recognized a few people. Shard and Lord Eurachis for one but, he didn't spot the other member of the team he'd been apart of on Muunilinst. Jaa Herzet, a Nautolan, that was as big as his Wookiee friend Zaaltarr.

Since his experiences onboard the Midnight Sun, Xerron had changed somewhat, he was quieter, not quite as arrogant or flamboyant. Calmer. He simply smiled and made his way to one of the pillars surrounding the circular duel arena, blending in with the crowd and deliberately trying not to draw anyones eye. He crossed his arms smiling as he watched the duel, taking in their method of combat and admiring the two for it. He himself was more of a lightsaber duelist, he wasn't good at using the force in combat, beyond cloaking himself visibly and shrinking his presence to the bare minimum. In a place like this rife with the dark side, he'd draw no ones eye, all they'd feel was someone with minor force influence, nothing more than the common man who hadn't even known he was force sensitive.

His eyes raised as the two combatants threw mental and force energy attacks at one another, he thought on how it was done, knowing the basics and rubbed his chin "Hmmm...interesting" he muttered to himself. This was a particular area he struggled in still. One that he wanted to improve himself in, but, didn't know how.
He remembered Eurachis rebuke on Muunilinst and cringed internally, knowing the man could've done far worse. Suddenly he felt a strong presence grow in strength, almost getting a heat of its own. His knees buckled slightly in the force of the attack upon one of the combatants, but, just as quickly as it had risen it dissipated. He recognized the presence all too readily. Shard was it's scource. Xerron looked to the man, a expression of annoyance on his features. He looked quickly back to the fight though, putting the matter out of his mind. It would do no good to interrupt the fight with another, one that possibly Xerron couldn't win.

He looked to Eurachis, who was now sitting in one of the wooden thrones that was brought out to him, a deeper understanding of the man settling on him just then. He nodded to himself, seeing an opportunity present itself in that moment. He'd made a promise to himself that he'd learn from the man. He knew full well the man had atleast two apprentices, but, he'd ask anyway. He wanted to better himself, strengthen his weaknesses.
Eurachis could provide some of that training. Xerron smirked beneath his hoods and halfmask.
He would grow stronger in the ways of the force. He had to, to be of any use to the Sith.

[Karl the Unfettered]

Shard couldn't help but grin as he retreated back into himself, despite Lady Novus' reprimand. "Forgive me, Lady," he murmured, throwing his voice so she would hear it clearly despite his low tone, "I misjudged what you asked of me and my position here. It will not happen again." He reached back and put a comforting hand on Shandari's shoulder, acknowledging her gratitude with a smile of his own.

"Let me know next time, and we shall spar again," he said to her, silently of course. "I shall make it a little more instructive, perhaps begin teaching you the basics of the second tier of the Echani styles." Briefly he wondered how to include her wings in it, but put it aside for the moment; the duel was still on, and doubtless she would figure it out for herself when the time came.

"Rather wish it'd get more physical," he complained. He could sense the others getting bored, and could see why that might occur, but to him it was still a spectacle. Raeg attempted Torture by Chagrin on Visari, a technique the Miraluka could easily learn if he bothered, but it seemed the Epicanthix was able to shrug it aside easily enough. "You could learn from that one," he told the Rilan, indicating Visari with a nod. "His strength isn't the same as mine or yours, yet is still strength nevertheless."

Even as he spoke, Visari was crafting his next gambit; chains in the Force, to bind the floating Falleen physically. Shard saw them as glowing blue bands encircling Raeg, and nodded in understanding. Visari supposed the Falleen had no physical defenses, and thought to hold him in place for a greater attack. "You see now. Visari hopes to pin the freak down and finish this once and for all. This has certainly gone on long enough."

Cho's departure annoyed the Miraluka slightly, but he understood the Noghri's reasons. The gap was soon filled, though, as the pilot of a ship which had landed some minutes ago drew nigh. Glancing out, Shard located Xerron and nodded. "It's been a while, Delzanin," he sent to the human warrior. "I knew you wouldn't stay away for long." The second statement bore undeniable undertones of smugness, but Xerron would be able to tell Shard was joking. Up to a point.

[Cirith An'Gol]

Xerron looked to Shard, barely moving his head as the Miraluka sent him a force message.

"It's been a while, Delzanin," he sent to the human warrior. "I knew you wouldn't stay away for long." The second statement bore undeniable undertones of smugness, but Xerron would be able to tell Shard was joking.

Xerron nodded simply, noting Shard's tones as he spoke in Xerron's head, grateful atleast that the Miraluka seemed to be in good spirits. "Indeed it has been awhile and you're right I couldn't stay away, there's too much for me to learn. That and there's no where else for me to go" Xerron sent back calmly nuetral as his gaze went back to the duel. He leaned against the pillar he was in front of. Normally he preferred faster duels, specifically ones with lightsabers. That's where his strength lay. The thought of learning something from this mind battle quelled his boredom. He tried to think of this duel as some kind of training as he tried to read the flow of the battle in front of him.

Please let someone end this mind game and start the actual duel already Xerron thought. He didn't see the point to drawing out a fight like this, except if it was to learn about your opponent. He didn't see the point to that either, the more you drew out the fight, the more chances your opponent had to learn about you, and catch you offguard. When people were caught off guard, fights like this were ended abruptly usually. In this galaxy it was kill or be killed. This Xerron firmly believed.

Xerron's gaze lifted up from his private thoughts and returned to the spectacle in front of him, intent on learning something of value from this experience. He focused his eyes on the force energy they sent at each other, how it moved, how the two opponents wove it, directed it and shaped it for a specific purpose. He tried to see how they guarded themselves against each others attacks. This kept him content for a few moments longer, but he still wished for an up front lightsaber to lightsaber duel. He briefly thought about training himself in his own force techniques but, no, that might draw attention to him. Attention he didn't need. He sighed heavily continueing to watch the duel with feigned interest, hoping to get some sliver of knowledge that would be useful.

[Leto]

Raeg felt something around himself. He wondered for a second. But it was probably no more than a ruse from the Epicanthix. If it was indeed a trap, escaping would probably only activate it. Very clever. His respect for both the Sith in front of him and the one called Shard had certainly increased a great deal. They were powerful, just... Different from him. He thought that the interior chaos of the Miraluka might, just might be an advantage for Shard. Then Netellus spoke to him. And for once, it was actually quite interesting. Raeg's tone suddenly changed into becoming much warmer and friendlier. And for once, it was not just an attempt at tricking his opponent.

She was the weakest. I knew little of Rilan, but I had heard that their telepathic abilities were great, and, as such, I had seriously hoped that she would pose a somewhat-surmountable challenge. She was none at all, however. Very sad, and she will probably need some training from her friend, this Shard persona. He seems quite the capable one, after all. More than meets the eye, appearantly. Oh, that was a pun, was it not? Delightful. Perhaps I should become a comedian instead. that would be adequate, would it not?

The Epicanthix was still talking. Fantastic! Surely you must know by now that they would achieve more by bashing my skull in with a hammer? Yes, I wish to join the Sith. Yes, I have made enemies, but I believe that I will be able to make it up to those whom I have misjudged... Which was most of them. Yes, I indeed believe so optimistically, because... Well, otherwise my boredom would expand again.

Raeg felt the Epicanthix touching the trap that he had set up - it was a trap, after all - he felt himself being unable to move. Also, his body hurt. Greatly. That was a minor issue. The problem right now was what the Epicanthic was about to do. He would conjure up Force Lightning to attack Raeg with. That would be a problem. Raeg regarded Visari. You really think... Nah, i am just going to do it. Raeg did not defend himself. Instead, he attacked the bonds that connected Visari's trap to the man himself. As Visari attacked Raeg, the bonds were severed. Raeg sent out his own burst of Force Lightning. He could not hold out against Netellus indefinitely in this way. He was getting tired of these child's games. He sent out a wave of telepathy meant to shut down the brain of Netellus for exactly enough time to make the Sith go into a coma - it was not killing him, after all.

[Hotel]

Shandari nodded as the man spoke, still reaching out into his mind. "I would like that." Her eyes opened once more, watching the two. She listened as Shard continued to describe what was happening, wishing she could see it as he did. An idea popped into her head. "Shard... would it be possible to teach me the ability to see in the way you do?" Her eyes looked over to where his would be, head still resting on his shoulder.

She felt a new presense draw near. One that, for a moment, took her attention away from everything else, just to see who it was. The Rilan woman watched the man with bemused interest until he found a place to be stationary, then turned back to the fight, keeping a close eye on Visari. It seemed things were finally starting to pick up as lightning flew from both duelists.

[Rugs]

Visari laughed at Raeg's hopes of joining the Order, and for once he was genuinely amused, rather than irritated at the Falleen. "If only optimism was what made the world worked, Vashin. Sure, some may forgive you for the events of this day, but all?" He shook his head sadly. "I find if hard to believe that none would nurse grudges toward you within their hearts. And I can't say I would blame them. Besides, alot of their opinions of you seemed to change for the worse when you tried to pull that stunt on the Rilan woman. Surely you could sense it?"

Then his trap fell, and the bonds held the Falleen for a moment before he cut them. I see, I'll need stronger ones next time, he thought as the lightning arced through the air at Vashin. Raeg responded with his own lightning, hoping to hold Visari's at bay. But Visari could sense some weariness creeping into his foe. Part of the cost of having to float around with the Force so much. If he doesn't he's stuck without anyway to move, yet if he does, he's caught constantly having to expend Force energy, Visari thought as the two waves of lightning pushed against each other. He can't hold out like this against me, especially not with these physical attacks. If it has to be a battle of attrition, then so be it. Being the defensive-natured duelist as he was, Visari was quite fine with letting it come to that; he could hold out for some time.

Visari decided to take a more passive approach to handling Raeg's lightning. Rather than trying to force his way through it with his own lightning, he let his attack fade, and Raeg's slammed into a defensive barrier of the Force in front of him. Even though Raeg's ability with offensive Force powers may have been below Visari's ability to defend against them, the collision still created quite the spectacle. Raeg's attack hit with a resounding boom! and the energy created kicked up a wind that went out in all directions. But through it all, Visari's defense stood strong, unmoved and unyielding.

Raeg's second attack slammed into his mental barriers. They had been reduced a little bit as he had focused on attacking Raeg physically, but they were strong enough to keep the worst of it away, but he still felt some effects. His head rang lightly, and he suddenly got a bit of a headache. He squinted his emerald green eyes for a second to clear his head out and drew on the Force, pushing the pain away before returning his gaze to Raeg. It would seem that he's got some good mental ability, though it seems the difference between us is not as great as he may like.

"Perhaps you do have some ability, then... Even so, I still cannot bring myself to think it wise to let you join us, though that decision is ultimately the Lady Novus'," he said with a slight gesture at the Arkanian. "Perhaps if you had come to us in a more befitting manner... but what's done is done, and your actions make it very hard to think that you would not cause more trouble than good to the Order." He spoke true. Being in the profession that he was, he knew initial impressions were often quite important. Of course, they could be wrong, but Raeg's first impression had been horrid. And his second, and third... "For example," he said, returning to the point he had been on earlier, "what reason would the Rilan woman have to forgive you for what you tried to do? Or even the guards? You killed on of them, after all? What reason should they have to keep from trying to retaliate against you?" Visari looked at Raeg intently, wanting the Falleen to understand the position he was coming from. "Unity is what we need with the Sith Order being as young as it is, and all I can see coming from you is strife and division."

The businessman sighed heavily as he prepared his next offensive; he was going to have one hell of a headache later. "But what will be will be, I suppose." Visari renewed his attack, sending out a wall of the Force before him that would slam into Raeg's body. That was immediately followed by more bonds that came out in staggered groups, and they would pull on the Falleen, slamming him into the ground. Lastly, he followed with another wave of Lightning, stronger than the last. It was as strong as he could make it be without it being lethal, and he intended it to hit.

[Cirith An'Gol]

Xerron's interest peaked when the two opponents started throwing Force Lightning at each other. His eyes widened a little as the two energies met each other, randomly spider webbing the air between the two figures. He'd originally thought that the energies would just pass each other by and continue onto their respective targets. He hadn't thought of being able to use Force Lightning like a rope in a game of tug-of-war. He grimaced mentally when he heard the big headed Falleen's attack slam against Epicanthix' Force Sheild. Even though the sheild dissipated most, if not all of the attack, it still must've hurt his ears down there.

The sound the Force Lightning made as it impacted upon the sheild suprised him a little. It'd sounded like a missile hitting a wall. Ofcourse that could have been the result of the sound echoing throughout the arena too he considered thoughtfully.
What really suprised Xerron was the fact that after the Force Lightning had impacted upon the Epicanthix sheild, was how the dust and dirt spun around them, like a small whirlwind.
Xerron nodded, not knowing of the actions of the Falleen or of his attack upon the girl I may be new to all this force stuff, but, I have to admit, that was impressive. Makes me want to challenge someone, see how I fare against another Dark Jedi, he thought to himself. He looked down at his hands as he held them before himself, silently wishing he could have such a raw power.

Xerron could do a Force Sheild ofcourse, he could even produce a spark but, he hadn't hardly ever had to use either ability. His gaze wandered back to the fight as the Epicanthix was clearly preparing for something as he spoke.
His eyes hardened, flaring in the shadows of the hoods. He would have that power and more. He'd work hard for it. He never wanted to be remembered as the spoiled brat he'd acted like on Muunilinst, whining and complaining within himself. He still wanted to prove himself but, now he had a direction in which to do it. I will train myself to become better, stronger and with more varieties of skills. I will become someone the Jedi will fear, they will pay for throwing my uncle out and in so doing murdering my family by their inaction. No one should have to run from the scum of the Hutts and send their child away Xerron's fists clenched a boiling hatred for both the Jedi and the Hutts rising within him. A moment later a cold focus placed itself in his mind, replacing the anger and hatred, as he reflected upon his surroundings and the pledge he'd made with himself. He was determined to live up to his silent vow. Nothing would deterr him now. Not money. Not friends. Not even allies, and most certainly not the Jedi. It wasn't overconfidence that was roused within him but, pure undeniable focus. Wary that his emotions could very well distract others around him, he buried his thoughts and feelings deep within himself, smothering them.
He crossed his arms again, a smile on his face beneath the halfmask and watched the fight unfold.

[Leto]

Raeg regarded Visari with the same inhuman logic that dictated every single one of his actions. The creature just insisted on speaking. Very well. He would respond. Well, if you are so afraid of my presence, then you could just look around. I am not going to cause troubkes. How would I do that without being ripped to tiny shreds at my first hostile movement? In that, you have your insurance that I am not going to risk my own life. You think that I doid that by going in here, do you not? Perhaps, but as you see, I greatly underestimated your order.

He continued to listen to the rant of the Sith. So? I could not care the slightest about whether they forgive me or not. You know what they say. An army is at its most effective when the soldiers fear what is behind them more than what lies ahead. Let them hate me. They know what I can do, and so do you. If they are foolish enough to attack me, I shall drain my power until I die from it. If I was to perish anyway, what difference does it really make?

Raeg predicted the attack. Oh yes. Finally. The attack that he would not be able to resist. He allowed himself a smile, before shutting down every non-vital part of his body, and bringing the vital parts down to a minimum. Only his brain remained lit. A second later, his body was ravaged by the attacks of the Epicanthix. Now there was no way to reverse the process immediatly. His body fell to the floor, as he only protected his head.

He waited, waited until the Epicanthix would be completely sure that he was rendered unconscious. He masked his mind, sending out a message of himself dreaming. Then, when the Sith thought him defeated, he sent out a wave of mental energy, drawing on the attack from Shard. The alien mind had touched Raeg deeply. It was a weapon, a tool. This attack was strong enough to kill a normal Force-user with ease. If left unchecked, it would make Netellus a vegetable. Of course, the man would protect himself, but Raeg was certain that this would make for a tie once the dust settled...

[Rugs]

{Alright, I think this is another point where we should wait for Neo before Raeg/Vis move along. I suppose the observers are free to carry on, though.}

Visari opted not to respond to Raeg's comments, and merely sighed instead. Apparently the fact that many of the one that had gathered at the Temple had fallen to the darkness because of the want for revenge escaped him. But he would wash his hands of it and let things be as they would. If the Falleen was found a green smear on the ground one day, he rather doubted the Order would be any worse off for it.

His expression did not change as his bonds slammed Raeg into the ground and his lightning collided with the small, broken body of the creature. In fact, it only grew more grim. He had seen Raeg's smile, and noted the way the Falleen did nothing to protect himself. What are you up to, Vashin, he thought as the lightning ravaged Raeg's body. Visari continued to loose the lightning into Raeg for longer than he normally would, until the smell of burning flesh began to drift over into his nostrils and he scowled in disgust. He only stared at the Falleen for a moment after the lightning stopped, taking in the damage that had been done. There would perhaps be some burns, but Visari was sure whatever it was could be fixed in a medical facility if Raeg so desired. Truth be told, he wasn't really concerned about the little creature's injuries. Something else had his attention.

Why did he smile, Visari thought as he walked over to Vashin's body. And why did he just let that attack go through without fighting it off, as he has done everything else? He stopped by Raeg's body and prodded at it gingerly with the end of his cane, frowning at how pitiful the Falleen's physique really was. What are you up to, Vashin?

For a few short minutes, all was silent on the top of the Temple. But even so, Visari was wary; Raeg had proven to be wily thus far, and he was not completely convinced that everything would have ended this easily. And then he felt it. Dreaming. Or the sensation of it, emanating from the Falleen's mind. Visari frowned at that. Some time had passed, yes, but it hadn't been that long. He hasn't been out long enough to dream, Visari thought warily. I knew he was up to something. He quickly readied his defense, but made it a bit different this time. There would be two 'walls' around his mind, with the first meant to take and absorb the brunt of whatever was coming before falling; the second was his normal mental barrier and would take whatever was left from the attack.

No sooner had he set them in place than Raeg struck out, sending a wave of mental energy toward Visari's mind. It was a bit different than the other attacks, and carried a bit of a heat to it. Interesting... Visari thought as he prepared himself. It slammed into the first barrier with enough Force to almost make Visari stagger and set his ears to ringing again, but it did as it was meant to and took the brunt of the blow, and the rest of it was staved off by Visari's second barrier. He closed his eyes for a moment to clear out the aching ring in his head and sighed. It was time to put an end to this. His duty as the one to face the challenger was to let the one presiding over the duel what he thought of the challenger's ability and to tell it truthfully--he had no doubt that Novus would know if he lied.

The Epicanthix took a few steps away from Raeg and turned to face the Lady Novus. Now it was time for him to tell what he thought of Raeg's ability with regards to being allowed enter the Order. "My Lady Novus... and Lord Eurachis and Lady Renata," he added, acknowledging the other two who sat beside Novus. "This one has potential, I can not deny that. I have no doubt that, had he come to us in a more befitting manner, no one would have any problem letting him come into the Order." Visari sighed and frowned for a moment as he gathered his thoughts to continue. "But, even though he may have strength, I find myself questioning if he can stay in line when needed. That is the biggest concern I have for one such as him. However, I can recognize that the fear of being killed by the rest of us may keep him in his place." Visari shrugged and looked to Novus. "But the decision is yours, my Lady."

[Cirith An'Gol]

Xerron stood coming away from the pillar he was leaning against and focused his sight through the force as the two opponents continued their fight, and in so doing letting his force presence up. It didn't matter he sensed that the Epicanthrix was eager to finish this fight anyway. He whistled lowly to himself so as not to distrub anyone around him as the Epicanthrix assaulted the Falleen with Force Lightning. The raw energy slamming into the Falleen and making his body twitch as it hit the ground. Xerron caught the smile the Falleen threw up just before the attack connected but, grimaced inwardly as the Epicanthrix held the attack for a few moments longer than was apparently necessary.

Why did the Falleen smile like that? Xerron thought confusion clouding his masked features. He was rewarded with an answer when the Epicanthrix shook his head Ah! A mental attack. Ofcourse, I should've seen that sooner he thought though a little dismayed at how quickly the fight had ended. Though he had gleaned some usefull information, so he couldn't complain. Up until then, Xerron had only been in physical battles, never mental ones. He knew that you could send messages into the mind of another but, he'd never thought of attacking the mind, mostly because he didn't know how. Xerron nodded he agreed that the Falleen had talent but, he was more concerned of the Epicanthrix comments on his entrance.

He threw down his Force Concealment fully, chuckling lightly as a few around him gasped in suprise not even noticing that he'd been standing beside or behind them through the whole fight. He searched out Shard in the force and quickly found him, recognizing his presence in the force. Shard what did the Epicanthrix mean when he said "had he come to us in a more befitting manner"? What happened? I didn't see any bodies when I came in, or any evidence of a recent battle Xerron sent, curiosity entering his force message to the Miraluka.

[Foxfire]

Cho watched as the sparks literal flew. Force lighting, a thing of beauty when done right. Yet still they tend to over spend their force like water and not like that of blood.

The coming and goings of watchers were just a distraction and cared not by Cho. He did not to be seen as giving up on the event. Cho using telekineses marked the ground in front of Shard, an arrow and the noghri word for watching/protection.

He may not be at the side lines but he was still watching.

[Neology]

Novus reclined further in the finely carved throne, slender fingers tracing whorls in the dark wood. A sly smile touched her lips as she answered Renata's telepathic message. "Indeed, and with no regard to station or who's watching." There was little mistaking that the thought referenced Eurachis alone. Novus had no great desire to open the situation with Raeg up for discussion. "Though I suppose its alright if we let him have his fun. We'll all be busy enough with our tasks, soon enough." She watched the noghri leave, frowning slightly and making a small gesture that acknowledged his words. It was plain enough to see that the mutated Falleen was not starting out on the good side of any of the Initiates, leaving the Arkanian with the peculiar feeling that her previous comment about throat-slitting might well come true. She shrugged it off, instead smiling at Renata. "Ah, I'd be a fool to take that bet, at least without knowing the stakes. I'm sure I could find some way to keep his mouth occupied, with the right incentive."

The crackle of force lightning drew the dark lady's attention back to the duel, and she watched the proceedings with more interest this time. Raeg's attempt at playing possum was interesting, but Novus was doubtful of its use in real combat. What was that silly rhyme? 'One in the head, make sure its dead?' She'd met more then a few mercenaries that swore by such things, especially in concern to alien wildlife. It was likely a good policy with force sensitives as well.

Soon after that, and both combatants subsequent attacks, it seemed as though the pair were ready for her judgement. Novus listened intently as Visari gave his opinion on the Falleen's ability, inclining her head slightly in acknowledgement. She remained seated for a moment longer, giving the appearance of considering the matter at length, though her decision was already made. Finally, she got to her feet and smoothed out her robes, drawing out the moment to make sure she had everyone's attention.

"I call upon those gathered as witnesses. It is my judgement that Raeg Vashin has displayed skill enough with the Force to be named Initiate among us." She clasped her hands together and glanced over the crowd, a strange gleam in her eye. "This is not open for debate." She took again to her seat, anticipating some time to be spent on various introductions, though she doubted there's be any congratulations for the Falleen. "Vashin, the quartermaster will sort you out." She spoke in a disinterested tone, then sent a telepathic message for the new Initiate alone. "I would look to your back, if I were you. You have made some enduring enemies in the Rilan and Miraluka, I suspect."

[Karl the Unfettered]

"I can't say for certain, Visari would know better since he saw for himself," Shard replied to Xerron as the fight continued. "What I have gathered, though, is that this little freak, Raeg Vashin, approached us in a manner ill befitting a mere supplicant and prospective student. It seems he murdered a score of his own men, killed one of our guards, and put one of the other students into the medbay for some time.

"More importantly though, he has been disrespectful to the Lady Novus. His arrogance is boundless and his loyalty deeply questionable." A pause, while the Miraluka considered what else to say. "I can honestly say I have never seen a more amoral being in my life. He has more in common with a machine or a droid than a living person; everything is cold reason and logic within him, yet despite that he has acted most illogically in his brief time here."

Leaving the younger man to make of his words what he would, Shard watched the fight again, looking back and forth. "I would not want to face Visari," he said to Shandari, reaching up to brush his hand across his forehead. "He is always in control, as you can see yourself. Vashin would be easy, just infiltrate his mind and start screaming; he is too logical, too rigid, to deal with it properly."

Raeg's next gambit was an odd one, and the Miraluka quirked an eyebrow. "I wouldn't have thought he was that physical," he commented out loud, though his words no doubt went unhead due to the roar of Visari's attack. He looked on with a trace of disappointment as the Epicanthix let up on the attack and turned to Novus for her judgement; that disappointment deepened when the Lady proclaimed Vashin fit to join them. Her pause fooled no one, he suspected.

"This is ridiculous, Wroth," he said to the watching Noghri, silently. "You, me, and Shandari must keep an eye on our newest member; I don't trust him any farther than he can walk." Beneath his glasses and goatee his face was stern and untrusting, though he kept his negative sentiments to himself. For now.

[Rugs]

"As you say, my Lady," Visari said with a moderate bow at Novus' decision. He straightened and turned to look at the body of the Falleen, which still lay on the ground, though Visari knew he was still awake. The barest hint of a frown touched Visari's face as he regarded Raeg. Though he personally would have barred the little freak's entry from the Order, he could see the merit in at least giving Vashin a chance. Raeg's mental ability was nothing to scoff at, and perhaps one day he could grow to be an asset... but as things stood, he was still more of a liability in Visari's mind.

But that would no longer be his problem. Visari had done more than his fair share of dealing with Raeg, from the time the Falleen first arrived to the point they were up to now. He can be somebody else's problem now, he thought, only half jokingly. But still, the Epicanthix couldn't help but wonder with some vague hint of amusement how long it would take before Vashin pissed somebody else off. Well, these next few days at the Temple would certainly be interesting.

"Well, Vashin," he said loudly enough so that only Raeg would be able to hear, "it would seem you have joined our ranks. I would be careful were I you. You've made some very dangerous enemies this day." And he did not speak of himself. That's not to say Visari liked the Falleen: he didn't. But, he would not do anything to the Falleen out of spite. Not anything physical, anyway. However, he found himself wondering what some of the others--such as those whose distaste he had felt deepen considerably at the Falleen's attack on the Rilan, and certainly the Rilan woman herself--would treat Vashin now that he was a part of the Sith Order. That same little spark of amusement rose up for a moment within him. Interesting time are ahead indeed.