Open Ga'nkagayr Katr

[Van'Aria Solus]

OPEN to all Solus Clan Members and their Allies​

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The Citadel, Mandalore

After the collapse of the Crusade, and worse even the dealings with the Dar'manda, things had progressively looked more grim and bleak for Clan Solus, their Alor, Mand'alor for a time showed much promise to both the Clan and the entiriety of the Mandalorian People, yet it was doomed to fail from the beginning, or so Van'Aria thought to herself, she had voiced her concerns to Nox about bending the knee to the Sith but also understood his plan to work in the shadows and rise through this Partnership, yet that... was not the Mandalorian Image, not the way to walk as a Mandalorian and it gave her much to think.

The War efforts were almost entirely lost and they were once again returned to a fractured people, it saddened the visage beneath that Helmet yet it halted not her hope, not her... conviction, she knew that there will be different days, her mind drifted to the Dar'manda and the petty feud between the Nox and him, there was no accord to be struck and no words that would redeem the Man in Nox's eyes and no matter how much she tried it would only cause a further division, this she would not risk, no, she would not stand for it.

Grasping a firm hand along the shaft of her Vibro-Ax she strode down the vast Hallways of the Citadel, why were things always so quiet? Pride should be what the Solus name should stand for, Strength even when others falter, was it not that which Nox imprinted in her Mind? A clenched Fist redoubled her zeal, it was time to call for the Clan to come together, it was time to forge forth what must be done.

"My Brothers and Sisters, Clan Solus heed me. Raise your voice with me and speak your mind."

And so she did, through which channels she could muster be it word of mouth or digital communication, she reached out to every Solus she could and called them into the largest chamber the Citadel could muster, there she waited even if it meant an eternity, She hoped the Alor would be among the least to arrive, she had many a question, many a word to exchange.

Among her Peers were some that she had been in contact with since the War efforts, not many still stand from the relentless Battles Nox sent them into but those that share her vision albeit few stood off to the side with her.

"Thank you for responding to my call, my kin. I have ever only wished to see Clan Solus prosper. Today is no difference I assure you."

She spoke to those that came along with her and instead of a proper response a solemn nod was all of the response she got, she didn't wish for devotion or Loyalty, she didn't need to prove that she needed that when the cause was simply just and right and she aimed to make that very apparent.

Soon the Chamber went entirely quiet, a expectance of the Alor began growing and it was a universal consensus atleast from her side of the Meeting that she wasn't going to begin without him unless he elected to refuse to show.
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[Hokaan Veren]

Spoiler: Music

It had been some time since Hokaan had been on Mandalore. The Veren clan was loyal to House Solus and the clan of the same name that lead it, so when Van'Aria Solus made a call out to the House and its members he answered. The Mandalorian walked through the halls of the Citadel that had changed hands over recent decades.

Rumor had it the Citadel was millennia old and had numerous secrets which Hokaan was interested in discovering. Previously, he had shown up to support Nox Solus at the beginning of the Crusade. Mandalorians had history when it came to just about everything. But limited interaction with his own community has caused him to be ignorant of this past. He wanted to not be a loner that just interacted with droids day in and day out. It was important for the slicer to socialize and step up.

During the crusade, the Veren clan member had lacked the enthusiasm or the motiviation to conquer like his ancestors may have. Now he was glad he had not done anything he regreted. Even with their helmets obscuring their faces, it was clear many had feelings of regret and guilt.

Hokaan crossed his arms and stood towards the back of the crowd with upright and confident posture. His head and shoulders would present his orange and black armored form among the sea of predominantly red. Word of each Mandalorian faction fracturing had spread. This was what had been foretold. When someone took on the title of Mand'alor without a legitimate claim their people would be scattered to the winds. Even without the mystic prophecy, Hokaan had seen the faults in the crusade and chose to distance himself, until now.

There were not many Armorers present and none of them seemed to specialize in slicing. The Mandalorian waited patiently as he was regarded with glances. Clan Solus was known for isolationism so he was not surprised that he drew some attention. Not to mention he wore heavy armor that, while worn on the Phoenix's frame, cut an imposing figure.

The first thing that Hokaan heard was clan Solus. That hinted that he should remain quiet while direct clan Solus dealings were dealt with before this opened up for all of House Solus. Clans loyal to the leading clan stood towards the back and sides while allowing Solus clan members to take the center if they had chosen. But there was plenty of room for all to gather. Their numbers had dwindled lately. Hopefully that would change.

@Bread

 

[Van'Aria Solus]

Those gathered of the Solus Side soon quietened down, and eventually the entire Chamber came to a deafening silence, it was... a uncomfortable and incredibly oppressing Silence, Van'Aria as one of the Solus Members present was incredibly dissappointed and saddened to see their numbers having been reduced to such... little, they were once a shining beacon of the Clans, she studied every shred of the History Clan Solus had, all the way to its humbles beginnings and glorious fruits under Raz Solus.

The clanging of her Vibro-Axe could be heard as she used it like scepter to walk with, she appeared soon infront of the large mass of Mandalorians that had gathered itself, Hokaan had seen the Female Solus only once before, and that was on a battlefield more than anything, she had changed significantly since then, but one very apparent thing he could clock almost immedietly how incredibly large she was for Mandalorian standards.

Some consider it a gift to be a imposing stature as a Mandalorian and both her width and height made that all the more apparent, clad in heavy armor she looked akin to what was more often than not seen in history books, when one taught about ancient Rally Masters and historians, the golden lines on her helmet a clear takeover of the pride of Clan Solus when Nox adopted similiar accents during his time as Mand'alor.

She faced forwards slamming the bottom of the Axe into the ground, the precious heirloom metal sung, and any Mandalorian that had heard Beskar being struck before knew its sound, it was one that turned heads immedietly, from within that winged Helmet her voice rose enough to resound in the entire Hall.

"Fellow Mandalorians. Solus-Kin. Allies and all that still stand with us. I bid you welcome."

She projected her hands out in a welcoming motion and almost immedietly after she spoke further down in the rightmost corner of House Solus Members objection came.

<"Where is Alor Nox? You are not him.">

This proclamation raised immediete murmurations among the Solus that were present, however... those that had fought with Van'Aria before remained silent, they were few... but they existed.

"I wish to ask the same question. Where is our Mand'alor? What have we become? To be so led astray when we could have at last grasped what our Ancestors could do. No. Accusation I make, how could we have deserved any less when the man that led us had no legitimate claim to such a Title to begin with?"

She let silence ensue for a lengthy moment.

"He held not the mask nor the saber. He conspired with those that destroyed the very Planet we so painstakingly rebuild day by day. No. I say that was not Leadership. It was desperation. And this desperation my Kin, it did not make us strong. No. It made us weak."

Her proclamation once more was met with adversity, some of which was quite heated and direct.

<"You slander your own Alor so openly?! Where is your honor!">

@Darasuum

 

[Vidha Solus]

It had been a long, long time. Vidha walked into the Citadel, her face displaying her inner turmoil; but her helmet hid it, so the only person privy to such emotions was Vidha herself. She had recieved Van'Aria's message with surprise, but had returned to the Citadel nonetheless. It had been some three years, and the galaxy seemed to be in a state of chaos that only increased day by day. It had been just as long since she had seen her sister, and even though her sister had not shown herself to Vidha for multiple years before, it was somehow different, now that Vidha knew Van'Aria was alive and fighting.

Vidha seemed to have gotten taller; she certainly filled out her armor better than she had prior. She had also gained a semblance of calm over the years, one that was strange for anyone who knew Vidha. Her armor shone, and her trademark fur cape remained around her shoulders. She had the Solus marking on her pauldron. Underneath her helmet, her appearance remained much the same- her ice blue eyes peered out from behind her helmet with an almost uncanny awareness. Her silver hair was braided and pinned to her head.

Vidha entered the large room, where others were gathering. Their numbers were few, and Vidha was saddened. She remembered Van'Aria telling her of a time when Clan Solus thrived. The young Mandalorian took her place towards the front of the crowd, where she knew here sister was likely to see her from where she stood. Her sister's beskar vibro-axe hit the ground with an ominous thud. She listened as Van'Aria spoke, raising thoughts Vidha had had herself, whenever she was on that quiet journey between missions. Ever since the Purge, the Mandalorians had never been quite the same. Vidha did wonder though, if Van'Aria was going to stake her claim as Alor; if she would declare that she wanted to lead Clan Solus and all of the Mandalorians to victory like in the stories she was so fond of telling.

@Bread
@Darasuum

 

[Hauron Solus]

Spoiler: Music

Hauron had not been on Mandalore since his father had led the renegade Mandalorians into hiding. Now, if he had hair on the back of his neck they would be standing on end. After Ithor, he was still recovering and making sense of what had happened. He lacked the shoulder plate he had lost in the fight and his original helmet had been crushed with the force. The Solus had the old helmet melted down and reused to form a replacement for the time being.

The Mandalorian stood among others of his clan, not recognizing many of them. But there were some that had come from the corners of the galaxy to at least hear what Van'Aria had to say. Hauron stood by Vidha Solus, recognizing her mantle from the times they trained together when he was a foundling.

He took in the halls and the structure, marveling at the capabilties his people had. The young Mikkian had only seen his people fight and move from place to place. Having large fortifications like the Citadel were awe filling. He had to give respect to his ancestors and the ground he walked on. Like his father, Hauron did not speak except when necessary. But now was the time he felt it warranted it.

"Silence! You slander yourself by speaking." He stepped forward and infront of the Mandalorian that had interrupted Van'Aria. Like he had seen his father do, Hauron centered his visor on theirs to stare back. This let them know the next word out of the naysayer's mouth would be answered with a fist. Hauron continued while temporarily having the room's attention and so projected his voice well enough to be heard over everyone. "We have all come here to hear Van'aria, not Fenyang, not Nox, and certainly not me. So shut your mouths and listen! You'll have your chance to talk and insult later. It comes with a complimentary thrashing." Hauron's head tilted, cracking a join in his neck for emphasis. His body language said 'shut up or hit me, I don't care which' to which the other Mandalorian answered appropriately with silence. Turning back towards Van'aria, Hauron gave her a nod, signaling for her to continue. Some people lacked discipline and respect. That much was clear to the young Mikkian.

@Reylo4evr @Bread

 

[Van'Aria Solus]

Silence. Absolute Silence followed. Haurons words were the last to ring out through the halls of the mighty Citadel and while they were both honorable and admirable, it earned him the spiteful look of those still very much loyal to the old Alor, yet surprisingly... he did not get any back talk from it, it was either likely that they were going to remember it, or were successfully intimidated, one thing that was incredibly hard to read with Helmets on.

When Hauron tilted his head towards Van'Aria he could see that she was very vividly watching this exchange, infact... he noticed atleast a dozen of eyes on him, he did not go unnoticed in this, however when a moment passed the Voice of the large Solus Woman resounded once more.

"Slander. A pretty word. The audacity to proclaim I were to slander a Man that I followed into War. A Man many of you followed into War. Was it the right thing to do? Yes. Absolutely. Was it the correct time? No."

Her voice thrummed forth with the might of a Speaker. She had the experience of someone to preach to a Choir, and the longer she spoke the more it turned into a speach.

"I am not here to beguile you with false pretenses of what can and what cannot be. Nor will I stand here making claims to a Station I have not earned." Van'Aria clenched her fist as she finished that sentence as if to emphasize her point. "What I am here to say is that we stand idle whilst our Brothers. MANDALORIANS! Are scattered to the wind. Who are we to reject what we could do best?"

She then began pointing her gauntlet into the crowds of Clans gathered before gathering her voice to speak once more, renewed Zeal and reverence in her voice.

"Each of you, each and every one of you have been taken in by another, shown how to live, how to fight, how to survive. Is it not our duty... our purpose to preserve such? To serve our Clan... no. To serve our People!" Van'Aria slammed her Ax into the floor letting it sing once more. "I. I as a Mandalorian. No. I as a Member of Clan Solus will do everything I can to reclaim the former glory we Mandalorians once had, starting with stopping this ceaseless bickering of our Clans."

That... was a bold statement, a high order at that aswell, some might question her ability to even be capable of such, yet her fervor, her determination and zeal to bring such forth when noone else believed in it showed true Mandalorian spirit.

"What are we as Clan Solus if not ONE. And that is what we must become! I know such a path is not easily travelled, it is laden with precipice, hardship and even more politics than any one of you can weather alone. But not a single one of you is alone, I stand with you, wherever our path leads, Solus will carry the Banner because Solus is a Clan of Action!"

@Darasuum @Reylo4evr

 

[Vidha Solus]

Vidha grinned beneath her helmet, glad to see a Mandalorian she recognized as Hauron step up and defend Van'Aria. She felt Van'Aria's words deep in her soul. She was declaring a sentiment common to most Mandalorians since their earliest warriors. Vidha was once more reminded why she was a Mandalorian.

"OYA! For Mandalore!" she exclaimed in Mando'a, beating her fist twice on her breast plate and raising it in the air. She was echoed by other members of Clan Solus. Vidha was relieved to see that only a few of those present remained silent, their expressions unreadable beneath formidable visors. None of them said anything, either for fear of the more loyal members of Clan Solus punishing them, or because of what Van'Aria's bold words had stirred.

@Darasuum @Bread

 

[Reiel Mal Crowholde]

Some members of the Murder, her clan, had chosen to remain on Mandalore to serve under Fenyang Ordo's leadership. Despite Clan Crowholde's hatred for the Sith, they opted to rally under the Mand'alor's flag for a single, secret reason known only by the alor, his son, and two of the clan elders - to eventually sabotage whatever the Darksiders planned for the Mandalorian people. Under the pretense of hypocrisy and scorn from members of the clan who chose to leave the planet rather than pretend to approve of the manner the Mandalorians finally, finally, got the leader they were praying and waiting for. The plan never came to fruition, however, when Fenyang vanished without a trace. In his place Nox Solus rose, but even he disappeared.

When Reiel was summoned by her ba'buir and buir to answer yet another fucking Call, Reiel had all but lost patience nor expectation that something good would come out of it. One moot after another only led to disappointment, and honestly speaking she didn't hold out much hope for this one. Although she still hoped for the Mandalorians to become a truly united people, the Crow had harbored a doubtful nature and would only believe it unless she would see it with her own eyes. Preferably in action, and most preferably not through an alliance with the Sith or any other entity that wished to turn the race of warrior people into their very own attack dogs.

It had been years since she last set foot on the Citadel. It had also been years since she last heard from her ori'vod, Srucayr, before he, too, vanished into the sandy wastes of the planet. The small Mandalorian entered the halls with purpose alongside her father. The pair of Crows stood into the shadows on the far end of the chamber and away from the heart of the gathering, watchful gazes locked upon the Mandalorian at the helm of this meeting. Wulfric was leaning against the wall, muscular arms crossed over his broad chest, helmet tilted upwards outwardly with pride, but the expression beneath it was one of stern contemplation. Reiel, on the other hand, sat on a chair she had silently dragged next to her father, legs splayed before her almost lazily and hands clasped on her lap. Together, father and daughter chose to remain silent at first as Van'Aria Solus spoke, only to be chastised by other Mandalorians.

"She speaks the truth, though," Wulfric rumbled lowly, his words only meant for his daughter to hear. "What have I taught you, ad'ika? None can claim the mantle of Mand'alor unless they held either Saber or Helm. Fenyang had neither, and so did Nox. And where are they now?"

Reiel fought the smirk that threatened to split her face. "Hod Ha'ran really is a funny one, eh, Pops? No wonder us Crows know not to pick a fight with him."

More words thrown around, of rebuke and a call to action. Unaware that Kotii's son had entered the picture as she quietly conversed with her father, Reiel's attention was summoned once again by Van'Aria's bold claim. One perfect brow rising in an even mix of curiosity and disbelief, the small Mandalorian raised one hand in inquiry - as if a child in a classroom - before opening her mouth to speak.

"And what actions do you have in mind for your vision to turn into reality?" asked Reiel loudly, soft voice trying to break through the cheers of approval of Van'Aria's words. Her question was posed with sincerity, with no hint of mockery nor judgement. She asked for the sake of asking, and would never purposefully insult someone who displayed true Mandalorian spirit.

@Bread @Darasuum @Reylo4evr

 

[Van'Aria Solus]

Van'Aria placed her gaze directly upon the Woman that had spoken, not only did she acknowledge her words but she praised them in her head, the Crow asked questions others would not dare to even think far enough for, she however left her without an answer for a while, this could come across as arrogant to some, but in truth she wanted to see if someone was to interject and lash out at the Woman, pleased to see noone did, Van'Aria gave the Answer asked for.

"A question that is all too warranted."

She spoke whilst gesturing to all that are gathered.

"How can we act without a plan? The answer is we cannot. It would be foolish to say all I plan is born to bear fruits but I for one believe that if all of us do our part we truely can become what we always wished for."

She gestured reverently to the ceiling of the Citadel as she continued to speak.

"The Galaxy has forgotton us, denounced us, far worse many of us have denounced one another. Our first act should be to restore the Integrity we once lost, to seek redemption in the eyes of the Mandalorian people. For if we cannot trust ourselves, we cannot fight. Give chance to the Exiles, the good and the bad, so that they may redeem themselves and return to our once glorious flock."

Van'Aria's helmet then came to rest upon Reiel judgementally, she could feel the very eyes stare into her soul from a thousand miles away.

"I will welcome back those that will reswear themselves to the purpose of Mandalore. And with our combined might, we shall repopulate our Home. We shall become the Warriors in the Shadow of the Galaxy. We shall rebuild our Clans, we shall hold one another shoulder and arm when another clan wavers."

She looked the mixture of Clans over a brief time, she had expected that they would look at one another at this notion, she wanted to make certain to them that what was most important is to teach them that they had forgotton what they truely are, Mandalorians. Why stick to Clan Feud, Bad Blood and far worse, when it can be resolved?

"We shall forge a mighty Council born of the finest of each Clan so that we shall never have these disagreements again. It shall be vast and plentiful with every mind willing to dedicate itself to it having a place, only like this can we ensure our unity."

She stopped briefly before regarding Reiel singularely and individually.

"That is my Will. My Duty. I will do anything I must to do this."

She said this from the deepest of her heart and the fact that she did so reverently and fervently made many a soul believe her instantly, but something told her not all would be so smitten by her loyalty to the People.

"In these trying times of seperation and inaction we must make certain that we do not lose sight of our goal, no matter how elusive it is, and whilst many of you would cry CRUSADE or WAR such will guide us not to our destination, such will guide us only along the same path we travelled once more, if our path is just... and our spirit pure I assure you then we will succeed."

Van'Aria felt like she had come full circle briefly during her... what felt to her like preaching at this point, one could only imagine the amount of weight that must be crushing down on her shoulders with the words she spoke and the attempts at rallying the spirit of her People, and whilst her Body wanted to capitulate, her mind said <"No.">.

The Hall got quieter as people began to converse among another whilst Van'Aria either waited for a rebuke of her words or a affirmation, neither was a easy choice but the time it took to come to such a conclusion gave her vital time to take a breath, regather her thoughts.

@Darasuum @Reylo4evr @Forsythe Crowholde

 

[Hokaan Veren]

There was some disruption in the group but that was just a matter of time in a Solus get together. Hokaan took a deep breath an sighed through his nose. He adjusted his stance, hoping his would not have to stand and listen to pointless bickering long. The Veren was glad to see the badgers put an end to the commotion and with surprisingly little violence.

Van'Aria continued to speak and Hokaan found himself nodding his head to what he heard. The man felt a connection to the Solus Rally Master. When mentioning accepting others, he turned to either side slightly to catch the words and reactions of the Mandalorians that murmured their varied approval. "For Mandalore. Oya." The Armorer spoke without shouting, his tone heavy with conviction. Hokaan did not need to yell.

For now Hokaan Veren remained quiet. The Mandalorian had a positive opinion of Van'Aria Solus and agreed with her opinion. If need be, he could vouch for her. Now was the time for discuss, debate and deliberate on how they felt. The Armorer took another deep breath and looked for any other Veren clan members. However he did not seem to find any obvious clan members. It was mostly badgers and crows. Perhaps that meant he would need to speak up as representative for his clan. Hokaan would do what was necessary. "This is the Way." He said convincingly towards those around him, nodding to signal his stance, whatever its worth.

@Bread @Reylo4evr @Forsythe Crowholde @Olwin

 

[Kotii Solus]

Spoiler: Opening Theme

The man wished he could have returned to the homeworld of his people sooner. While the Echani offshoot was from Krownest originally, he had yet to meet a Mandalorian that did not feel in some way connected to the ravaged planet even if they had never seen or visited it. Kotii was no exception. It was a place that each of them considered home so it made sense today he could die on the planet.

It had helped that the ex Solus’alor had arrived in a different beskar'gam than previously, as well as a different ship than he before. It was what remained of Black Hand's old bounty hunting armor and was repainted with the Mandalorian's current focus kept in mind. It conveniently gave him more time to think about what he was doing as his vessel carried him across the green glassed landscape towards the Citadel. Kotii was not sure what he was doing. But the Mandalorian figured he would know once he got there.

Tumultuous thoughts swirled in the man’s head during the flight about what had happened the last time he had come to Mandalore. Kotii Solus had claimed to be the warden of the Mandalore system and now returned with no small amount of shame for his lackluster leadership. The Badger’s mistakes had only increased after that day. As a clan leader he had failed, as a protector of Mandalore he had failed, the things he needed to atone for were many.

His armor was different from what some were used to, meaning they may not recognize him at first. His previous Beskar’gam had been taken off of his unconscious body by Hutt thugs and Manda knows what the slug Nor’baal was doing with the sacred suit. Kotii’s son, Hauron, had used his old man’s equipment and Kotii couldn’t blame him. Kotii now bore only a helmet, gauntlets and a chest plate. The rest of his form was covered in the equally innocuous and practical black robes of a traveler, though his grey plates remained easy to see. He was not going to hide the fact he was in mourning for lives lost.

The Mandalorian had entered the meeting room a while ago with others first arrivals and separate from his son. Kotii had told Hauron he was coming though the two had already argued it at length about how to go about this. Mysha had a similar conversation though with a bit more physical contact. There were some possibilities that Kotii had to come to terms with. Nox could attend, or any Solus that felt like shooting him without provocation. They had done it before as had other Mandalorians. But he was hoping there was a chance, even if it meant a challenge.

Spoiler: Theme Change

Kotii had never held the Citadel for himself during his time as Alor of House Solus. He had never sat at the head of the table or slept in its rooms. He had come to Mandalore when Srucayr had killed innocents and needed to be faced for his actions. But there had been enough time for him to at least learn the layout and get a general holomap of the place. He had no ill intent for those inside but it made moving about its interior a bit easier. Easily enough he had traversed its halls from the hangar towards the meeting room.

Years ago the ex Alor had only been able to remove the Orar'da'yadr from power before they could cause more damage. Soon after that was when the Sith Empire arrived. Then Fenyang accepted the title of Mandalore Darth Raze "allowed" him to have. Even now, Kotii rolled his eyes in disappointment as he thought back to the consequences. But the Badger knew he was not without blame. He needed to start somewhere and that was going to be decided today, here, before the rest of his family.

Kotii was skilled at stealth, even with armor. Without anyone expecting his attendance, he would go virtually unnoticed among the more brightly colored armor of his comrades. Some were members of the rebel and renegade cells that had fractured from the Werda Verda and some were clearly still loyal to Nox. But minds could be changed with time. The Mandalorian stood in the shadows of the hall solo. He did not need to stand near those that would defend him and so intentionally stayed in Reiel’s blind spot. Kotii had come to face his transgressions alone because he alone was responsible for them.

If there was ever a chance to step forward, it seemed like the time was after Van'aria's speech. Kotii saw his opportunity and took a few steps from his lurking spot though continued to remain in the back and apart from any others. "For Mandalore. This the Way." He spoke clearly though only perhaps a few might recognize his voice since there were others also cheering for the Solus Rally Master and others still conversing. His helmet tilted ever so slightly as if to silently ask Van'aria don't tell me you don't recognize me. If anyone was going to debate who was worthy of redemption then chances were Kotii Solus's name came to mind.

@Bread @Forsythe Crowholde @Olwin @Reylo4evr @Killa Ree @Song @Scoobert @Die Shize

 

[Reiel Mal Crowholde]

Out of everything that Van'Aria had spoken, few words left deep marks in Reiel.

"Give chance to the Exiles," she repeated in a neutral tone, not giving away even a morsel of the emotions that one word had managed to stir in the younger Crowholde's heart. Beside her, Wulfric's gaze found the top of his daughter's helmet, his own thoughtful expression morphing into a mix of anger and remorse. One person came into mind of father and daughter, and between the two of them Reiel had always been more vocal about her thoughts and opinions. "The good and the bad. Huh." She slowly rose from her seat but did not take a step forward, helmet rising slightly as if issuing a challenge not aimed at Van'Aria but to Nox Solus' loyalists instead.

"I know of an exile who chose not to bow to the alliance between Fenyang Ordo and the Sith," her lack of reverence for the former did not go unnoticed, earning herself reproving glares which she, in all honesty, reveled in. She heard his voice somewhere in here, and though she had not seen him yet the small Mandalorian was sure that he had answered the call of home much like she had. She didn't know where exactly among the gathered crowd the Badger was, but she heard him. He didn't need her standing up for him, but Reiel would be damned if she left her friend behind again.

"You're probably thinking of a certain someone." At the stares she was receiving, the small Mandalorian had the audacity to grin, her only saving grace being the helmet that covered her face. "No need to ask me who it might be, you all know damn well who I'm talking about."

"Language, and mind your manners, ad'ika," Buir muttered admonishingly beside her but she ignored him. If anyone would throw hands for what she was about to say next, she wouldn't back down just because they were several sizes bigger than her.

Gaze finding Van'Aria's once more, the Crowholde's tone turned solemn. "Though the damnation came from those missing Mand'alore, Kotii Solus and those who follow him are not dar'manda."

Amid the clamor questioning her what right she had to speak her claim, Reiel refused to elaborate further and sat back down on her seat.

@Bread @Darasuum @Reylo4evr

 

[Van'Aria Solus]

"At last."

Van'Aria said this only after all had resolved to return to their murmuring, louder and much deliberate at that many of the Clan Solus members became twitchy, hesitant and very much on edge, the entire Hall felt as if it had in a moment compressed,

A minute passed, it felt as if though Van'Aria left the pot to stir, but some things were unmistakeably something that anyone would notice, flanked on either side of her two new Mandalorians stood, one of which... was holding a Helmet, a fresh one bearing the Solus Colours.

"The Prodigal Alor, the Dar'Manda. Names so many know." Her voice, indifferent hard and direct, it was a clear change from the tone previously, it radiated with Power. She looked directly into the Solus Round before speaking more. "If you look to me with respect, then I will tell you something that not many know."

Van'Aria leveraged the defiance of the Crow, why? Because Van'Aria came to the Dar'Manda's aid once before, unprovoked, without reason, in her mind he was Mandalorian, no matter the deeds no matter the words spoken of him, he was SOLUS, and she would rise to preserve any Family... any Kin, today however proved to be that she will be faced with the troublesome task of unveiling her own Agenda's.

"Par Alor." She said blankly as if to pose it as a question. "What difference is there between... Par Alor and... Par Mando? When I was working closely with our Alor, Nox Solus, I did not hesitate on my decisions, I spoke my mind much like the Crow here did, and threatened I was with the same exile as the Dar'manda."

She pointed her Vibro-Ax at Kotii, she stood a good distance away from him but it was clear enough to point him out to everyone that had not seen him yet. "Yet I did not sleep on the opportunity to release this man from his captivity." Van'Aria's voice thrummed as she said those words they carried gusto and might.

"When I heard a Mandalorian was in need I did not question whom, what crimes this Mandalorian might have commited or his name, no. What was important was that he was Kin. I saved this man from his Captivity, nearly lost my life in the process as I used mine very own Ironskin to protect him from incoming fire. He could have left me to die, but he did not. He was Mandalorian and so was I."

She looked directly into the Solus Round once more, there were objective murmurations, it was clear there was division.

"Kin. Any Mandalorian who forsakes Kin is Dar'Manda in my eyes."

That statement was bold, but it carried a accussation that many Mandalorians would sympathize with, it is one of the oldest sayings afterall that... Family is more than bloodlines.

"And any of you... You that even entertained the idea of striking against your own kin have been led astray. Mandalorian blood should only be spilled by another Mandalorian if there is no other choice."

She let silence take the Hall with her final Sentence, using this as leverage she turned to one of her trusted Kin and... slowly picked up the Helmet that he was holding whilst handing over her Ax for him to hold, her gaze then fell upon Kotii.

"But if you are still not convinced. Very well, we shall prove it." Van'Aria grew tired of the farce of division within the Solus fold, if they want the Dar'Manda to prrove it, she will give him a stage to do so. "Kotii of Clan Solus. Approach. Remove your Helmet, reswear your honor to the Solus Clan and begin your Journey of redemption."

@Darasuum @Forsythe Crowholde @Reylo4evr

 

[Mysha Kelborn]

Mysha followed Kotii, silent in her grey beskar. A loyal Shadow, following the one they loved. Though she found it unwise to come back here... she would remain by his side, silent as others spoke. She would stand by his side, but tensed when mention of him taking off his helmet was spoken, a hand wordlessly set on his arm. Glancing at him, she merely shrugged once.

A silent communion between them.

Do not do what you do not wish to do. But know I stand with you, always.

@Darasuum

 

[Jamie Eldar]

Jamie sat in the back of the grand citadel, her arms crossed and hidden beneath an ornate hand-woven cloak made of whites and golds. The Mandalorian had never interacted with House Solus, but even a historian like her knew the reaches of their once glorious prestige. What once stood as a house that placed the galaxy on the brink of destruction had been reduced to a dwindling family prone to infighting. The history books would speak of their failings, the paintings and the songs would note the tragedy in their split, but a story was never truly over -- the poet knew that.

Her green eyes watched from beneath her visor as the apostate stepped forward towards the Rally Master's call to begin a path of redemption. The path of redemption is one not traveled alone. The warrior-poet hummed to herself as she placed her gloved hands against the top of her helmet, breaking the seal to reveal the flesh that was hidden behind the confines of metal.

Her skin was sun touched and glistened and was painted with a series of freckles that dotted along both sides of her cheeks. Her cheeks were thin and positioned evenly along the sides which added an angular appearance with the sharp jawline that the woman possessed. Her eyes were fox like and colored like emeralds stolen from the vaults of Crimson Dawn itself. Her hair normally long, had been woven into a crown like bun which she wore with dignity.

Jamie couldn't help but smile as she watched the slow unification of their people. As a historian and an artist, there was no greater moment than to watch history unfold before her very eyes. Each crowd, cheer, and awe from her companions was taken in and put to memory. Their story may have started a tragedy, but every epic had periods of downfall before the glorious rise again. This is the way.

tag: @Bread @Darasuum @Killa Ree @Forsythe Crowholde @Reylo4evr

 

[Kotii Solus]

Spoiler: Music

Kotii turned his helmet enough to look towards Reiel as the young Crowholde spoke. He smiled at having a reliable friend, especially considering she did so in a manner befitting a badger. Kotii stifle a chuckle and returned his attention towards the Solus Rally Master.

Van’Aria recounted the assistance she had provided. Kotii knew all too well he was indebted to her. His helmet centered on her to silently let her know she had his attention as she regaled the gathered warriors and armorers with the retelling. They were not exaggerations, just facts and statements of events.

With his helmet on he turned to the side and gave Mysha a nod. His opposite hand came across to grip the back of the Kelborn’s touch and gave it a reassuring squeeze before letting go. The Solus came forward with measured steps. The black cloak that he wore swept the floor of the Citadel’s hall behind him until he came to a stop before Van’Aria.

Taking a deep breath he reached both of his black gloved hands and unsealed his helmet. Raising it from his head, onlookers that had not seen his face would first see the back of his pale head being topped with silver white hair.

His right hand dropped to his side still holding his grey helmet. The Mandalorian used his left artificial hand to hook around one of the black bands around each other that held a face mask of the same color on his face.

The Mandalorian was not so proud to believe he was the only one desiring redemption. He welcomed the company and turned his head to look at the Eldar clan mate in the eye with his own ruby gaze before giving them a welcome nod.

The Badger knew the oath of the Way of the Mandalore. He knew it by heart and would repeat it aloud when it was his time to do so. Those in the back and hard of hearing could understand his words. His lips could be read but when he spoke he did so in Mando'a.

<“I swear on my name, and the names of the ancestors, and the words of the Creed shall be forever forged in my heart.”>

This was the way.

@Killa Ree @Forsythe Crowholde @Bread @TWD26 @Reylo4evr

 

[Vidha Solus]

Vidha turned her head to each Mandalorian as they spoke, nodding along with their words, noting with some amusement that Van'Aria's speech had turned into a sermon. But it was what they needed. When they were fighting amongst each other, or going on pointless crusades, it only led to increased bloodshed, where lives that need not be ended were nonetheless being ended. She knew there were bound to be some Mandalorians in here who would view Van'Aria and all those who rallied behind her as traitors breaking tradition, preaching overarching sentiments they could never put in action. But Vidha knew this not to be true. They were not ignoring tradition, merely following it even stricter, looking at their creed with a new lens.

Vidha saw this to be true when a Mandalorian woman stepped forward, removing her helmet. Kotii soon followed her, speaking the oath that was known to everyone, words that ruled everyone in this room's lives. Vidha raised her fist to her breast plate and nodded, showing her support for Van'Aria, Kotii, and the Eldar woman.

@Killa Ree @Forsythe Crowholde @Bread @TWD26 @Darasuum

 

[Mysha Kelborn]

Watching Kotii, and others like him, stepping up, made her heart swell with pride.

She had stood by Kotii's side, the silent Armorer, when he was declared fallen. When others would have considered him dead, she kept the faith that he was alive, and did her best to make sure Hauron was raised with the Way, though her skills at parenting were not as good as Kotii's own hands.

She watched as his face was bared to the light of day, and felt...

Like the ground was crumbling beneath her feet--

Exhilaration---

Like the first rise to the skies on a jetpack, the first few moments when gravity and fuel fought, she too struggled silently within her own helm. She looked down to the grey that she wore--mourning, the grey of a death, of a long period wrapped in a veil of sorrow.

She spent so long mourning. Not only for the death of her father, but the scattering of her clan, the lack of an Alor that begged to be mantelled. Losing Kotii, for him to return to her. Watching her people wander, feeling like she was unworthy of her father's quest.

Would I ever be enough? the words ached to echo, but as always, she remained mute, watching. It was the last to remove her helmet, that spurred her. Her hands raised to grip the edge of her helmet.

Never take it off, her father's stern words echoed in her mind, and she could feel her hands tremble, her heart thundering in her ears. To expose your face is to be dead; to never pass beyond the veil of nonexistence. Dar'Manda. This is the way, little one.

The seal released with a hiss, and she closed her eyes.

I have been dead for so many years, Buir. I must relive, to be worthy. I must become what I always was.

Slowly, the grey helmet lifted, revealing pale skin the color of jade. Exposing a sharp jawline, cheeks fletched with tattoos from her mother's tribe, a tie that went deep in true custom Mirialan. Dark green hair, tightly braided, fell down her back, and for a few tremulous moments, her eyes remained closed. Breathing in and out through her nose, she felt like she would sway if she didn't.

When eyes finally snapped open, it was almost too much. The light bright against unaccustomed eyes of bright gold; she blinked once, twice, but focused on every visor and revealed face in turn, as bright spots finally melded to color, to faces. Seeing Kotii in the light of day brought a gentle smile to her lips, as she lightly thumped her hand upon her chest.

By our ancestors, and the creed we must walk, it shall be done. This is the Way.

She would become alive again. To walk by Kotii's side, to repaint her armor in the customs of their people. The first step out of this long death. Though I never died, I was dead. I will no longer be in my own exile. No longer dar'manda.

This is the Way.

@Darasuum @Forsythe Crowholde @Bread @TWD26 @Reylo4evr

 

[Reiel Mal Crowholde]

Was there a basis to her claim of the exiles' status as not dar'manda? Was it presumptuous of her to say that her friend and those who supported him are not soulless, that they deserved a table on the halls of their forebears in the blessed afterlife?

To Reiel, her belief and faith in those who fought and bled and died for their people, for their Creed, spoke enough. More than enough to last each and everyone gathered here a lifetime.

The small Mandalorian watched everything unfold, now a silent sentinel dipping her head in approval as Kotii removed his helm, followed by another, and another, and another. She rose from her seat and took a step forward, onward to the heart of the gathering, her father a fierce but quiet shadow behind her. When they were together it was always him on the lead, but now their roles have reversed. With silent but determined purpose she strode past Kotii, past the Badger's loyal shadow, past every helm that turned her way. Reiel stopped just mere steps from Van'Aria, grey helm tipped upwards to meet the Solus woman's gaze.

There were faces revealed behind her, some she knew, others she didn't. It felt like a lifetime ago when Reiel herself removed her helmet for the first time, here in Mandalore, out of awe and reverence, tears streaming down her face. The Reiel of the past was a hopeful little thing back then, clad in armor of a Culture, the Way, she had been adopted into. The Reiel of the present was close to being jaded, but part of her still clung to her past hopes and dreams of Mandalore united in the truest sense – not because they were coerced, not because their existence seemed threatened.

The younger Crow slowly fell on one knee, then another, gloved hands lying flat on the Citadel's floor. She lowered herself further until her helmet touched the ground, bowed not out of fear or resignation or defeat.

Perhaps this was victory. Or perhaps this was her accepting fate.

"I shall see to it that the Crows of yore will give their blood and life to see Mandalore united," she began, soft voice solemn but loud. Reiel could feel her father's gaze burning on the back of her helmet. A resigned but proud grin made its way on her face and though she wanted to rise, she remained bowed on the ground. "This I swear as–"

Unexpectedly, her breath hitched.

Her grandfather was very old. And age was catching up to her father. The clan's eyes were turned on the one next in line. She didn't want it to be her, once upon a time, but the bruises on her knuckles and on her father's concealed face were proof of her pride and–

There was no turning back from this. And she didn't think she would ever want to.

"This I swear as Crowholde'alor."

@Bread @Darasuum @Reylo4evr @TWD26

 

[Van'Aria Solus]

The entirety of the Halls slowly dwindled to echoing and deafening Silence, broken only by the shuffling of heavy boots, plate ringing with the jostle of wind and motion, a sharp crisp voice cutting through this silence like any other yet... among many that broke out in joyous cheers and even gestures of encouragement, Van'Aria... was not such a Woman, she watched the entire ordeal silently, thinking... if one had celestial foresight one could see the very concentration that permanently radiated through her.

As Kotii slowly approached her and eventually stood afore her, she regarded the Man silently, this was his moment to rectify, to make his stand and sure enough... he would, the solemn hiss... the gesture of raising one's hands to remove the Helmet, the... Icon that personified them, she knew the weight that came with it, she knew what was at stake, but she would not ask him to do it if she didn't know... that he was ready. No. They... were ready.

Before Kotii spoke his words Van'Aria gazed into the round of those gathered, many followed to do the very same as the Man that stood afore her and that alone meant... she reached people. But... trials and tribulations were still ahead, the People will want a Leader... she cannot provide them with that yet, A Leader... she cannot be yet. Her Transparisteel Visor slowly tilted back towards Kotii reading the words of Mando'a spoken by the Echani, they radiated reverence. Subservience but also... Pride. Pride and Honor, the core principles on which every Mandalorian should be built.

A full minute passed before Van'Aria deigned to even react to his proclamation, but when she did... all she did was raise that Helmet in her hand, and slowly... place it upon the Echani. He shall return to the fold, but not only shall he bear the Solus Colors... Van'Aria slowly reached into a Satchel carried on her hip, within it was a small canister of paint, she unscrewed it and dipped two fingers of her right hand into the golden bristling mixture, her fingers... adorned with what many saw as clawlike extensions, she brought her hand up to see for Kotii and much to his displeasure perhaps slowly dragged the claws over his leftmost visor slit.

"Mandalorian." She finally spoke, her voice directed almost solely to Kotii. "Return to the Solus Fold. Carry my mark and begin... your Journey."

Her movements were precise, like a painter she drew exact and with purpose, when she was finished... there were two jagged claw marks of glistening gold adorning the already suiting Solus Colors, ofcourse... he could always decide to change that but the mark of gold, it is engrained, it shall never leave. Giving the Echani a reverent nod, she gestured for him to step back or return to his companions, he had naught more to prove with words, only actions now.

Another proclamation came, then... another and another... Van'Aria would be the witness to all of them, she would listen to them all, she would honor them all. Her Duty to her... the very ideology would deny her to even think that it was not her responsibility. These people... these... Mandalorians... in her mind deep buried beneath... they were her children. She would do anything in her power to protect them, no matter her station or rank, this feeling alone transcendent such base claims.

Her hands dropped to her side, heavy... feeling oh so heavy, the shoulders felt like they could be crushed if she took one too many steps and her legs... she could not feel them anymore, guided only by the need to press forwards to guide... to pave the way. Many asked her in the past what would fulfill her most? The answer was the hardest one could give. To see her people... thrive.

"Alor's of the Families... the Clans that have gathered. You see our people gathered here. You see your Generations come forth and pledge what many could not before. What has happened today, must happen again... and again. But know that what we have done today is the greatest step... a... Beginning. All I ask of you is to become what you truly are. All of you..."

She stopped, her mind obstructed her from finishing that sentence, was it pride? Fear? Embarrassment? No. She felt herself simply... not ready, even if the words... <"My Mandalorians"> rang so true in her mind. There will come a time when such is appropriate and perhaps... when such a day comes she mustn't convince... they will instead choose whom to follow.

She brought a solemn hand up and gestured to two Clansmen far in the corners of the grand hall, a moment later, the sound of drums resounded, rhythmic and celebratory.

"Let song take these halls, let merriment ensue. Let our Way forwards be celebrated."

Not a moment later, the Solus Rally Master turned on the spot and slowly walked back the way she had come, holding her left hand out for one of her Clansmen to return the Vibro-Ax to her before both of them turned and followed her into the grim darkness of the deeper halls of the Citadel, surely she would rejoin the Celebrations but as of current? She had spoken enough, demanded too much, and must come to terms with the many responsibilities that will come her way.

When it was only her and the two other Clan mates that so closely followed her wherever she went, one of them asked a vital question.

<"I sometimes don't know who you really are, Aria.">

"I am Mandalorian, Aurelian."​

@Forsythe Crowholde @Killa Ree @Reylo4evr @Darasuum @TWD26

THREAD CLOSE​

Spoiler: Continuation

As per discussed we shall continue this in a following occurring Mandalorian Social. Its creation will follow! Otherwise ping me on Discord.