Today’s Explorers, tomorrow’s Rangers.

The wintry home of the Jedi Enclave. Cut off from the galaxy at large, Permafrost's location ensures that the Jedi plans for the restoration of galactic peace and order are put on ice.
Varn Badaash
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Today’s Explorers, tomorrow’s Rangers.

Post by Varn Badaash » Mon Mar 15, 2021 4:19 pm

Home One, deep space.

The flagship of the Jedi Protectorate Fleet and mobile HQ for the Antarian Rangers floated silently through space. A hive of shuttles and smaller vessels surrounded the old warship. It was a special day aboard Home One for the Antarian Rangers as a group of Explorers had finished the grueling training and were ready to become full fledged Rangers. Unfortunately not every Explorer had what it took to complete Ranger training but they would be honored this day as well for they would transition into the many support staff roles that the Antarian Rangers needed to function properly.

In a large atrium in the belly of the Moncalamari ship sat a lively gathering of individuals from the Jedi Coalistion and Antarian Rangers. On a stage a group of high ranking members of the Jedi and Rangers spoke quietly amongst themselves. Among them sat Ranger General Linok, she was one of the big dogs, or Cathars in this case, in the Rangers, next to her was Jedi Overseer Farlander, the Jedi’s primary voice within the Ranger organization. To the right of the stage sat six Explorers who were ready for their new position and to the left sat a group of Rangers, the Silver Mynocks, which were there to be a symbol to the Explorers turned Rangers of what they were to become.

Ranger Badaash sat there with the rest of his team, Ranger Srid and Ranger Captain Alim sitting on either side of him. The Dashade didn’t really understand why he and the rest of the Mynocks were even here, Srid had tried to explain that Rangers rotate who comes to the graduation ceremonies and that they needed to honor the future generations. Varn didn’t care for it and would have rather been in the field, he knew the Sith weren’t just gonna take a day off.

Alim’s hand came to rest on Varn’s shoulder, snapping him back into the moment, he might have started to doze during some of the initial speeches. “Varn the main event is about to start, the explorers are gonna be sworn in and walk past us and we need to look our best,” she whispered to the larger sentient. Varn nodded in return before sitting up a little taller, if he had to be here he might as well be presentable. Little did he know that Alim had a surprise in store for the Dashade Ranger.

Ranger General Linok stepped up to the podium and gave a look across the audience that had gathered. “Thank you all once again for joining us here this day,” her voice carried across the atrium, it was the voice of a warrior who had braved many storms and lead many soldiers into battle. Her gaze shifted between the Explores and the Rangers that sat on either side of the stage. “Today we recognize the a accomplishments of those who have faced the enemy,” the Cather’s gaze stayed on the Silver Mynocks for a moment, and Varn could swear that she was looking directly at him. He glanced at Ranger Captain Alim who wore the slightest grin. Linok’s gaze shifted back to the Explores. “And swear in the next batch of Rangers who will continue to face the evils that plague this galaxy.” She paused for a moment before continuing. “Explorers are you ready to take your oath?”

There was a unanimous affirmation from the six Explorers. “Then let us begin,” Ranger General Linok said before calling forth the first Explorer.

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Ben Kenobi
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Re: Today’s Explorers, tomorrow’s Rangers.

Post by Ben Kenobi » Tue Mar 16, 2021 4:24 pm

The YT 2000 Talon was already cooling down after landing within the legendary Home One, flagship of the Jedi Coalition’s Protectorate Fleet and one time flagship of Admiral Gial Akbar of the Rebel Alliance. It was rare that Ben was this deep in Alliance space and even more rare that he had a moment’s peace. But he took this moment to honor one particular Antarian Ranger whom he had found himself on more than one occasion fighting back to back with against the forces of evil in this Galaxy. Ranger Varn Badaash. It was a joyful day, one that Ben would not miss had he the chance to attend.

Walking down the ramp of his ship, the steam blasted over his dark brown cloak, yes he was wearing his nicer and more formal attire and not the rags he normally sported. He’d even polished his boots up and oiled them to a nice brown sheen as well as his belt. Really, this was about as good as it got so with fresh duds and a smile he landed on the hangar deck of the Home One.

All around the business of the hangar was bustling with activity and Ben nodded approvingly at it. The Jedi Coalition was not a militarized organization nor were the Rangers but their actions and their work ethics were very paramilitary and nothing about it was sloppy. Things around here were ran to a peak level of efficiency. Even now a ground team had rushed to the Talon and were already attaching refueling hoses and taking a quick diagnostics test of the older YT 2000. Ben left them to their work and made his way to the interior, Aliclair Austjor, his Padawan in tow…

They made way into the auditorium and Ben did his best not to attract too much attention. He had no desire to be dragged up front to make some speech he was ill prepared to give. He just wanted to enjoy the ceremony and give a salute to his friend and then be off; there was always something going on out there. Then again, with all the chaos and dark tidings that occurred throughout this Galaxy, times like these were essential for the ‘good-guys’ since they brought them a little reprieve and could remind them what they were fighting for. It was easy to be evil but being righteous took work and even moments like these were important in keeping true to that ideal.

The Jedi Master leaned to his Padawan and pointed at Varn quietly, “That’s him.” He said, and stood back up. “Varn, we’ve been stuck in quite a bit. You won’t get to see him all prettied up too often so enjoy it.” He added with a smile. How they found a dress uniform to fit the massive alien physique Ben would never know but they had managed a pretty decent job of it.

He also pointed at Jedi Overseer Farlander, “That is Keyan Farlander, I flew with him back in the days of the Rebel Alliance, before the Battle of Endor.” Ben said with a proud and nostalgic smile. “He’s a good man.”

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Adar Bolner
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Re: Today’s Explorers, tomorrow’s Rangers.

Post by Adar Bolner » Wed Mar 17, 2021 1:37 pm

Moving through the hangar of the massive and legendary ship known as Home One. Adar had heard that this ship is older than the Jedi Coalition itself. It didn't look that old though. Guess being the flagship and the pride of the Jedi Fleet meant she had priority on repairs and parts. Nevertheless, Adar was humbled that he was even in such a space ship to begin with. She had seen her battles, and Adar would double her count one day. Triple them even, if it meant a galaxy of peace.

His Master, Master Vassa, finally excited from her LT-3000, "Shining Justice", the ship that had transported them all the way to the Moncalamari from Koda station. Vassa was wearing a more colourfull robe, yet it wasn't that much attention grabing. Actually, non of the Jedi wore eye catching attires, just a more formal attire. Adar was, for the most part, wearing his normal clothes, though he finally found a nice excuse to done his new cloak that he had ordered. He wanted a cloak because he wasn't a fan of the robes most Jedi wore. Not to mention that a cloak came off a lot easier in battle. But either way, he was proud of this cloak. A black cloak with red stripes in the cape part, as well as some white stripes in the front. The final noticeable thing was a symbol his Grandfather had in his favorite suit, a redesigned Ace of Spades. He had asked to be put there so that he would feel that his grandpa was at his side, like he said he would be.

As they met up, the went deeper into the ship. They were both in a positive mood, and that was reflected in their conversation.
"A lot of Jedi here. I thought this was a ranger exclusive ceremony."
"As you know Adar, the Antarian Rangers are part of the Jedi. They are as much our brothers as those who wield and study the Force. We are not only invited here, but a lot of us are expected to come. Not that we are forced to, these little festivities are a great and much needed break for many of us."
"That is most certain Master. Since this is my first big event, it would probably be a good idea to meet and introduce myself to people, especially the Masters and Ranger commanders"
"Don't stress about it. We are here to enjoy ourselves and celebrate the heroes, as well as the new recruits."

Adar nodded in agreement. Both master and Padawan walked into the auditorium and got mixed within the crowds of people. They greeted and chatted with a lot of Jedi and Rangers, with a few expressing positive remarks about Adar and his training. He was glad to be part of this family, and proud to be heading on the right path.

At some point, Adar spotted Master Kenobi, and both him and Master Vassa went to greet them.
"Master Kenobi, glad to see you here. And you must be his new Padawan. I'm Adar Bolner, pleased to meet you."
Likewise, Master Vassa greeted Master and Padawan.

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

The first Explorer, a male human from the planet Chalacta, rose up and stepped forward. He stood tall at 182cm, and bore a scar on his right cheek.Not much else was visible, apart from his Explorer uniform. He begun by introducing himself.

"Honorable Jedi Masters,Knights and Padawans. Honorable Rangers. Esteemed General Linok, and Jedi Overseer Farlander. I, Kilt Vindon, am proud to be standing here with my fellow explorers. My training was rigorous, and filled with challenges. But neither the terrain nor the live fire managed to break me. I will show you that as a Ranger I will be as prudent, efficient and effective as the Silver Mynocks." Kilt turned to face them, and saw a mix of pride and humility in their faces. But they all deserved to be proud to be among the best men and women in the Antarian Rangers. "I swear to fight against any and all oppression of life and freedom in the galaxy, and give my life to safeguard the ideas of peace, freedom and justice. I shall obey the orders of my superiors, and show respect to them and to my fellow Rangers. I will be loyal to the Rangers, the Jedi Coalition and all those who align themselves with their goals. Should I be found breaking my oath, I understand that I will be removed from my position or the Rangers alltogether. And with all that in mind, I move from Explorer and will now call myself Kilt Vindon, of the Antarian Rangers."

And with that, he stepped back to his seat, to allow the next Explorer to take his oath.
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"The universe is infinitely complex, but my purpose is clear."

Varn Badaash
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Re: Today’s Explorers, tomorrow’s Rangers.

Post by Varn Badaash » Wed Mar 17, 2021 3:17 pm

Both Ranger General Linok and Jedi Overseer Farlander shook the hand of Explorer Vindon and offered him a congratulations. He had spoken his oath with strength and conviction which earned him the approval of the Rangers. Although he had taken the oath his part in the ceremonies was not yet finished and instead of being ushered back to his seat he was instead prompted to take a position on the stage where there was room for six individuals to stand side by side. With Vindon now standing at attention the next Explorer was called up.

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Aliclair Austjor
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Re: Today’s Explorers, tomorrow’s Rangers.

Post by Aliclair Austjor » Sat Mar 27, 2021 3:22 am

When her master Kenobi approached her inquiring they were attending a sort of gathering to watch the Antarian Rangers rank up from explorers to their full fledged names and standings, Aliclair felt an unnerved sting and politely passed to attend to begin with. But after an exchange of words and reassurance by her Master, she gave in and nodded. As they travled there, the feminine fabricated an proper but semi-normal attire for it. The Jedi weren't known for their fashion sense, but with her, if it was a celebration, the proper outfit could never be beaten. It was a loose long-sleeved V neck shirt with a cloak integrated into the shirt so a cape covered her back. She didn't want any part of her limbs from the joints up to be exposed for reasons only she knew. Her lower half was a long skirt that matched the long-sleeve shirt laced with golden threaded designs of her culture and her new life as a Padawan. She was possibly the most 'dressed-up' then the others but, Aliclair always found herself fabricating clothes and such when not wearing her armor.

She followed next to Master Kenobi with her hands within her sleeves as she looked around. This was a gathering that made life seem like there was actual peace and no evil looming over the Coalition's shoulders 24/7. She gave Kenobi her ear as he spoke to him, acknowledging Varn Badaash and looking over to the Ranger to-be's. A ping of unsettlement speared her heart. This is where she would be if not had been for her Master. She would've been a Explorer... an Antarian Ranger To-Be... Her eyebrows knitted before snapping out of her bitterness feelings; her life would change for the better. As a pair approached them, Aliclair fixed her posture; a force of habit. She gave a slight and small ballerina-like bow toward Master Vassa and Adar Bolner. "It's a pleasure to meet you. I'm Aliclair Austjor but Ali is fine." She said with a polite smile on her face. It felt nice to act as someone other than a combat padawan.

Aliclair's eyes turned toward the first explorer that began to speak and watched. That could've been her... but they seem so prideful, and happy. She wondered if her mind would've changed if her path altered. If she could be up there as well, head and chin held high. But, glancing back at her Master Kenobi, she wouldn't change a thing. It was time to see these Explorers evolve into official Antarian Rangers.
[ wip ]

Varn Badaash
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Re: Today’s Explorers, tomorrow’s Rangers.

Post by Varn Badaash » Tue Apr 06, 2021 9:41 pm

The rest of the Explorers came up one by one, giving their own oaths and brief speeches before going to stand on the side of the stage. As the last of the Explores took up their position, Jedi overseer Farlander stepped forward.

“Thank you Explorers for your dedication and continued efforts to reach this point,” the Jedi began. “It has been a honor to watch your progress and see you all excel. Now is your final test, with the full weight of the Jedi council I must ask you one final time.” He turned to face the six Explorers. “Are you truly ready to stand in the face of danger, against unknown evils and give your life to protect all the inhabitants of this galaxy?”

The Explores almost in unison gave a resounding affirmative. The Jedi briefly closed his eyes, feeling the vibrations in the Force before opening and giving a nod to Ranger General Linok. The Cathar gave a smile and stepped towards the Explores, a younger officer following her holding fine leather jackets.

“Then with the power granted to me,” Linok spoke up, her voice burning like a bond fire. “I pronounce you Explorers no longer, from this day forward you will be Rangers! After today you will travel into the galaxy and stand side by side with the Jedi as you face the darkest threats this galaxy has ever seen!” With that she took the first jacket from her assistant and handed it off to the now Ranger Vindon.

“Congratulation Ranger Vindon,” she said as she stretched out and shook his hand. She proceeded down the line giving each Ranger their new jacket marking their rise within the Antarian Rangers. As she came to the end and turned to the gathering. “Welcome our new Rangers!” Clapping reverberated through the hall.

The Cathar General gave the new Rangers a few minutes to absorb the moment before she retook the podium. “As we said earlier, today isn’t just about bringing in the new but also about recognizing the accomplishments of those who have been serving.” Her eyes drifted to the Silver Mynocks. “May I please have Ranger Badaash join me on stage.”

Varn’s coal like eyes widened as he was called on by the Ranger General. He looked to Ranger Captain Alim who just gave him the biggest smile and a pat on the back that told him to hurry up. Varn slowly stood and stepped up the stairs giving a nod towards the new Rangers before approaching Linok. She gave him a warm smile as it was easy for her to tell the Dashade was quite uncomfortable. “May I also have Ranger Captain Alim step up as well.” This time Alim was the one with a sudden look of surprise as she stood up and joined Ranger Badaash on stage.

“Today we recognize the accomplishments of these two Rangers as they have truly stood against the odds and did not break but instead rose up to the challenge.” Linok turned to the mountain of a Dashade. “Ranger Badaash today you are recognized for your efforts at the battle of Rhen Var, while we suffered many losses on the frozen world you stood up and faced the Sith head on saving many lives that day, beyond that battle you have held yourself to a higher standard and that has not gone unnoticed by the your fellow Rangers and the Jedi that you have stood besides. So it is with great honor that I decorate you with this medal as a hero of Rhen Var and the rank of Ranger Captain.”

Varn stood speechless as the Cathar pinned a medal to his jacket and handed him a patch that’d denote him as a Ranger Captain. “Thank you for your continued service Varn,” she said quietly to him.

As she stepped back from the grey skinned sentient she turned to face the human female that stood next to Varn. “Ranger Captain Alim, your continued service and leadership has not been unnoticed, without your quick thinking and ability to work under heavy pressure the battle at Rhen Var could have been drastically worse. You have shown through countless engagements to make the hard calls needed to bring as many people home safely as possible and so it brings me great pleasure to rewards you with this medal marking you as a hero of Rhen Var and the rank of Ranger General!” Linok stepped up to the woman and gave her the medal and new rank patch. “It has been an honor and I look forward to working closely with you in the coming days, Ranger General.” The Cather stepped back and turned back to the crowd.

“Thank you all for joining us here today, please give your support to our newest Rangers as they prepare to receive their new assignments and give your respects to our Rangers who have given everything to make this galaxy a safer place!” With that the speeches came to a close and the new Rangers stepped off the stage to receive their new assignments and possibly meet a Jedi that they would be assigned to for the foreseeable future.

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Aliclair Austjor
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Re: Today’s Explorers, tomorrow’s Rangers.

Post by Aliclair Austjor » Wed Apr 14, 2021 3:02 am

As the round of applause ceased and the party members were free to mingle, Aliclair couldn't help but to feel curiosity. She excused herself from the Jedi Master Vassa and wondered the floors for Varn Badaash. Once she spotted him, she let a gentle hand touch his arm to get his attention. "Excuse me, Ranger Badaash? May I have a few moments of your time?" she asked. Aliclair had a certain shift to her voice, as if giving worried eagerness, her eyebrows furrowing to follow her feelings.
[ wip ]

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Ben Kenobi
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Re: Today’s Explorers, tomorrow’s Rangers.

Post by Ben Kenobi » Mon Apr 19, 2021 9:17 pm

The ceremony was a nice one and when Ranger Varn took the spotlight for his promotion, Ben beamed a little at his success. Varn had been through probably more than he should have ever been subjected to in his short career as an Antarian Ranger. But every situation he had come out stronger and stood a little taller. Varn Badaash had impressed the Jedi Master and Ben appreciated that he had the honor of having Varn be assigned to him so often. It was someone he could trust not only to watch his back and not run in the face of the terrors of the Galaxy, but he was also someone he knew he could trust to watch Aliclair and Evelyn’s back and Ben Kenobi cherished his students. That was saying a lot on Varn’s behalf.

Ben took a moment at the thought of Evelyn Swann, his missing Apprentice and he briefly sighed in a moment of longing. Knowing she was still out there somewhere was not doing well for his soul. He swallowed hard and brushed free of the loss. Returning to the moment where he witnessed the finality of the proceedings until it was all concluded.

As everyone milled about and began to chat, he remained near Aliclair and she near him, until Varn approached and when he did and Aliclair got his attention Ben simply smiled and patted him on the shoulder in passing. “Well done Captain Badaash.” And then Ben simply departed, he made no scene made no serious exit, he just slipped out the back door and vanished down the corridors; his destination was his trusty YT 2000, the Talon. While there was still much of the night left, Ben retired from the after party of the ceremony. He had some meditating to do and perhaps with this time alone he could tap into the Light once more and maybe see if he could find his lost Padawan…

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Re: Today’s Explorers, tomorrow’s Rangers.

Post by Varn Badaash » Tue Apr 20, 2021 3:21 am

The official part of the ceremony was over, the Rangers had dispersed into the crowd, the new Rangers were meeting Jedi who they would likely be assigned to for year to come. Varn had made his way into the crowd, it was not his favored terrain, so he mingled with his fellow Silver Mynocks. After a few minutes he felt a light touch on his arm and the mountain of a Dashade turned to see a young woman. His dark eyes look down at her, he didn’t know her. His attention was stolen by Kenobi’s congratulations and pat on the shoulder.

“Thank you Kenobi,” Varn barely muttered as his once savior walked away. For all the victories that were being celebrated today Varn still felt the guilt for not being able to save Kenobi’s Padawan.

With a heavy breath the Dashade turned his attention back to the young woman as she spoke with a hint of what Varn felt was anxiety in her voice. “Perhaps,” a hint of curiosity filling the Rangers gravely voice. “May I ask who you might be?” The Dashade was truly curious, the young woman did not give the appearance of a member of the Ranger and she was dressed nicer then most of the Jedi in attendance.

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Aliclair Austjor
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Re: Today’s Explorers, tomorrow’s Rangers.

Post by Aliclair Austjor » Tue Apr 20, 2021 6:50 pm

The moment the larger male's eyes landed on her, she felt even more heavy with nerves. And with Ben leaving her there caused to anxiety to spike; At this time, she wasn't sure if it was due to the presents of the Rangers, or something else. She swallowed before speaking.

"O-oh, um. I'm Aliclair Austjor, Master Ben's Padawan." she started, hands tucked away in sleeves. "I guess in a way, I'm new blood." she added. Ali began to wonder, taking a small moment to read the room; she'd dress different. Much different, so it would cause confusion as to where she aligned with, but her time in the Enclave taught her there's nothing wrong with alil sequence.
[ wip ]

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