Knowledge is Power (Open)

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   Marks of war appeared to be littered across Namek, a sight to be seen with the naked eye. Wherever civilization stood, battle efforts likely had at least some presence. Represented physically by all the evidence of damage found in architecture and flora. However another aspect wasn't taken into consideration. There seemed to be another aspect at play here, one people tended to ignore. Social harm played a fair part as well, two factions taking their problems to a planet that didn't ask for them. Gossip, no matter the culture always had similar trends that never ceased to end. Word of the battles held on this planet didn't escape his ears. Truth be told the violent side of Sleigh enjoyed it, although he bore a curiosity sating the savage quality he carried. Now released from a long slumber he had much to learn in the years he'd been inactive so to speak. Having joined the Fleet in a rather strange circumstance he or well whatever collective his mind formed had been seeking to familiarize itself with the organization he was a part of.


    Mindlessly walking through the Ajisa Mainland seemed like a fruitless venture, little was gained by the walk besides some warped feeling of inner peace. For a short period of time there wasn't a struggle of wills he had to face, manipulation sorcery not so controlling under these circumstances. <Did I really go on a stroll for nothing?> Somewhat disappointed he still carried on his path, seeing something in the distance that caught his eye. A curious glance that made him doubt the validity of what he was seeing. His pink scouter enhancing the quality of the image via some kind of magnification built into the device. <If my eyes aren't fooling me. Those are fellow members of the Fleet by the looks of it, guess this walk turned out better than I had thought.> Taking off in rapid flight advanced without further regard as he flew towards his destination. In a short amount of time he reached the target, at its doorstep as several Fleet soldiers appeared to be guarding it. Their guns readied at his head, prepared for combat.


    "You needn't worry, I too am a comrade." The Arcosian pointed at the armor donned on his person, showing the unique symbol representing his shared affiliation. <If they're guarding the entrance, one can only wonder what's inside. Looks like there's only way one to find out.> Provided no opposition, Sleigh pushed forward opening the large yet intimidating door to reveal its contents. A remarkable sight could be seen looking back at him, ancient architecture of superb quality. In shock by just the sheer size of it all, there appeared to be no end to this construct and so he continued walking around. <Castle Namek, I had only heard rumors about this place. But to see it in full? Intriguing I must say.> Aimlessly sauntering around he eventually became lost in the complexity found in the marvelous building. As if by some struck of luck another Fleet member had also been surveying the premises. Curious, he decided to strike up a conversation with him. "Why hello comrade, I see you too have been attracted to the Castle's properties"

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   They day only became more fascinating as time progressed, surprised by how quickly the pace changed in what otherwise felt like a boring walk. Here presented himself an opportunity to really talk among fellow colleagues, learning about the vast world around him. Being on Namek for a fairly brief period of time left him few tools to use at least on a physical level. Still lacking a respectable level of strength compared to fighters he knew existed. Truth be told even attaining that level of power wouldn't quench such a thirst, there was an underlying parasitic quality to his personality. <It never stops does it? This sentiment, one can only sate this by constantly feeding it. Maybe that's self defeating because I'll never be satisfied, or am I fooling myself? Maybe it does stop at one point. he quest I seek may never be accomplished, not in this life time at least. Oh well, it doesn't matter. Not now anyways.> Sleigh decided to ignore the rest of his mindless rumination. <Thinking aimlessly'll only make it worse. Priority.>


    The Arcosian's eyes returned to Kraktus's general direction, having previously wandered randomly suggesting some inner reflection. Returning the bow back to the military official, upon returning to his normal stance he saluted the individual. "Why, hello." A shameful feeling looming over his person. <I don't know his name..> Upon further inspection something became clear, confusing although worth increased scrutiny. <I can't sense him.. odd. You don't see this kind often. His clothes, and those soldiers outside. Let's just see where he stands in the Fleet.> Quick to investigation, his scouter started analyzing the man promptly. A series of symbols and numbers ran across the screen as it detailed exactly who this alien was, running an information check through the Fleet's database . <I should increase my formalities then, he stands reasonably high within the ranks.> Sleigh was quick to assume dialogue once more, aiming to please. "Knowledge you say? Then you and I share a similar interest. Whether good or bad it doesn't matter anyways, we stand as allies with this."


    He pointed to his armor signalling the faction's symbol once again, as if by command light gleamed off the material's surface. "I must apologize General Kraktus, I've yet to properly introduce myself to you. The name is Sleigh, one of many soldiers under his command." While he didn't exactly state it, the emphasis found in his words made it clear that he referenced a very specific leader. "I'm not on duty however I'll gladly render my services to you if it can help you accomplish this goal of yours." He waved his arm to show all that was behind him, displaying all that Castle Namek had to offer. Not quite sure as to what Kraktus was looking for, yet still showing a desire to aid in some capacity. Sleigh's curiosity only furthered granted the chance to conference with another official, high ranking at that. Eyebrows raised alluding to some eagerness not expressed all too often. "At your command should you wish it, General."

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   <Refreshing isn't it? Simply a breath of fresh air. Here lays another man that can converse with me. Speaking to a reasonable length about a topic that's fascinating, a wonderful prospect of information. I'm surprised I hadn't learned of the Fleet being here sooner.> While engrossed in this fact it wasn't the only thing that caught him off guard, not the prettiest face to look at himself he did take time to observe Kraktus's characteristics. Due to the nature of his affiliation he didn't get all that surprised by the appearance of aliens though it still captivated the Arcosian. Every person oh so unique being more different than the one before. Perhaps the aesthetic property of the General didn't attract him, however. Something else might've been at play here, decently subtle. <I wonder, what had brought this man to such a position position? Is it merely sheer might that talks among these folk? This language truly doesn't escape other cultures, it is all the same.> The talk of his fellow Fleet comrade calling upon his attention, shifty in the way his head moved about. 


    "Aren't we all pursuing knowledge? Its one of the essential means of gaining strength. Both mind and body, neither can be ignored." In the midst of his exchange a rather uncalled for event took place. An extravagant laugh was had on Sleigh's part, animating the otherwise mostly silent castle in lively ambience. The remark of Kraktus likely had an a hand in his show of emotion. He quickly cut it short, ending his abrupt period of hilarity. His expression becoming incredibly serious, face serious depicting heavy intensity. "I must apologize General, I get vague at times when I seek to explain things. I sought to imply Lord Chill, I hope you understand. It isn't in my character to use names so freely, they possess a lot of power I feel." This ping pong of communication continued, replying to another statement made by the alien. Following the suggestion by providing a nod signalling his comprehension. "Books you say? Alright then, have at it." He kept up by walking slightly behind him, showing his respect and remarkable difference in social class.


    "About myself? I don't know where to start, rarely am I presented such a question. The common behavior from what I've understood, is not to speak openly about one's self. Only focusing on the task at hand and nothing else, this is rather refreshing in contrast. Unusual to say the least." Sleigh's face relaxed, softening the stiff facial expressions he usually carried. He lazily scratched at his forehead, searching for answers in a mind devoid of many. "What do I desire, is that it? I'm not a complicated individual, I think I want what the next guy over desires. Power. Isn't that everyone's ambition more or less? Now of course just saying power for the sake of power isn't all too wise, still though. I'll seek any means of getting towards that goal, and with it I shall fight for the Fleet. This is a cause I'm willing to defend, the Fleet is one of the few organizations that follows the natural order of things."

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   <Could some people really be that naive? Is it not this that we all seek?> The idea that someone could possibly ignore information and choose the path of the stubborn seemed very foolish. <One cannot hope to fight this blindly in war! They'll only lead themselves to an inevitable fate. A man can't achieve greatness bearing such a narrow view, hmm.. Perhaps its my hubris that won't allow me to see past my perspective, or maybe its my optimism. Rather difficult to tell at this point, its too early. Now where was I again?> Acknowledging the request made by Kraktus, he began to inspect the premises. Sleigh searched around for useful books, fingers running along the spines of each document. His head quickly gave attention back to the General, facing his glance's direction. "I came to the right place? How swell, I hoped this much. I didn't know what to expect coming to Namek. A change of pace at the least, until now it felt all too much the same." Various ideas cycled to little end in his brain, relishing the thought of some of what had been said. 


    "To work on this venture sounds very appealing, I've longed for a chance at such. Gaining strength is vital, I concur with that statement. The Fleet's needs all the help it can get. No matter the means." Sleigh continued following his superior, slowing down as something captured the Arcosian's curiosity. A specific publication caught his eye, large and elaborate in its craftsmanship. Alluring despite knowing little about the contents of this strange book. After taking the enormous book of its shelf he looked at in full. A green leathery material covered its surface, dust settling in the cracks leaving the color faded and grey. Swatting a hand upon, it a plume of grime particles rose into the air. Its age well depicted in but one fell swoop. To his surprise it was in a language he could actually decipher. He read the title slowly, the weathering found on the title made it difficult to decode. <Seventy-Five Dances of Battle. How'd this book end up here? It doesn't appear to be written by someone on this planet, nor in this era.> He raised it up, emphasizing its sheer size to the military commander. "I think this book might prove worth your while, it concerns war."

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   The remarks made by Kraktus proved to be true, having cut through the film of his linguistic dance. Despite Sleigh's vague explanation there appeared to be a good comprehension on his status as both an independent and lesser body within the Fleet. A fact he wished to change, not all that comfortable functioning on his lonesome despite his reasonable power-level for such a lowly position. Another nod would be returned to the General, responding in orderly fashion. "Yes, I suppose you could call me a sort of freelancer, however my loyalty is firm. That much isn't a question. I hope to one day join a squad and make myself more official among the ranks." The Arcosian soon felt the weight of time creep up on himself, unsure still if progress really had been made in the time he'd been present. <Am I really helping? If only I knew where to look, the natives here might be of some use. This'll be all for naught, hopefully my discovery changes things.>


    Bearing a sentiment of optimism, he took a gander at the man's reaction. Bearing a curious heart towards the notion that a development was had due to his efforts in Castle Namek. Very attentive as he cast a watchful glance upon him, taking mild gratification in aiding a comrade. Providing Sleigh a slight boost in morale for a simple task, the slight praise lifting his spirits. An idea had came to the Arcosian's mind, one he considered worthy of saying aloud. "Have you considered forcing some of the natives to cooperate? Their understanding of this place may provide an insight we don't possess currently. From the other planets I've been on I've seen some violent coercion tactics work quite well. They seem to care strongly about their families, its a common weak link worthy of exploiting. Wouldn't you agree?" Sleigh's facial expression seemed to express some kind of contentedness, his unique features making it somewhat difficult to tell.

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   In his time brief time present a notion gathered in his mind, one hadn't considered challenging before. <Is progress really being made here, or is this a futile aim. A poor excuse to pass the time. Could there not be a training session or some other kind of task being done in exchange? Feels as if we'll only be getting scraps by raiding these vaults, junk scattered all about. Heirlooms possessing no tangible value. This might not be the best place for acquiring useful information.> Caught up in his own mental process, words shared by the conversation brought him back to focus. The feelings expressed by Kraktus left a mark on Sleigh's thought process, the idea of affiliating himself with a formal squad captured his attention. The idea itself stored away in the recesses of his mind, ready to be brought back to relevancy for a later date. The muscles found surrounding his cheekbones tensed, creating what one might call a smile. His unfortunate face not providing him the average structure of a mouth's grin. "Should you manage to form a battalion I'd be interested in participating. I can only do this solitary effort for so long, even in the Fleet I stand alone to some degree."


    The Castle grew to be a place the Arcosian started to familiarize himself with. Certain things looked much more alluring now that he understood what to look for. Books began piling up in his hand, gaining considerable height that risked being intimidating to the average observer. After catching wind of a soldier nearby he called for the man, handing the steep pile of publicized works to the grunt. Its sheer weight making the hill of paper hard to balance. Another low class Fleet member came to their assistance, struggling to carry it despite the joint effort. An amusing picture, albeit an impressive task given the disparity in power-level between them and Sleigh. The general's remark on the Namekian problem enlightened him, making him think anew about this complication. Another angle, yet to be considered. "You're right I hadn't thought of that exactly, unnecessary attention. The last thing we'd want under these circumstances."


    He scratched at his forehead once more, in the same exact place he'd done it before. If one were to inspect that part of his skull they'd see an indentation, as if to make it obvious that this mannerism had been done repeatedly on numerous random occassions . "It isn't in my character to do much talking although short as this encounter has been its proven enlightening. Few are the moments in which I can converse with another member of the Fleet. I think its rather unfortunate, a question presents itself to me due to this fact; Why don't I meet meet more members? Its high time I make myself more known among the ranks. I seek to achieve a higher status, humbling as this position may be. I don't wish to remain a regular soldier any longer." Sleigh scanned the book that Kraktus was holding, fascinated by its contents. <Now what might be in that paperback? All these documents.. It hadn't occurred to me that they might be fictitious. How fruitless then, would our efforts be.>

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   Although a main goal was afoot in the vast Castle's indoor rooms, the real pursuit had shifted some time ago. At one time being the books present, their acquisition being the main intention behind his participation. Yet something had changed in a such a short moment's notice. It didn't matter how many publications one read certain things just couldn't be gained through those means. Knowledge got one far in the world these days but one can't rely on that alone, not all useful information could be achieved in this regard however. One needed to look further than the simple. If there's a resource yet to be tapped into in full it was looking him right in the eye, Kraktus. A man who likely had recent combat experience on numerous fronts. Many things were worth consideration in this instance. His brain practically asunder while he tried to think of the future, many paths were beginning to open up to him. Numerous crossroads but only one would be taken, here he stood in the fork of them all. <As much as this all sounds tempting, I can't be rash here and make a decision. This is not my place.> 


    His visage revealing strong wrinkles forming at the edge of his features, something stirred from within. "Keep me in mind will you? I appreciate that, hopefully I can find my place. Everyone else seems to have done so already respectively. Its like were all playing a game of chess and in this game of ours everyone's running around trying to be their own piece on the board. Still, I wonder if we'll be the ones who'll be winning this game." Another nod would be returned to Kraktus, pleased as he began to foster the notion that maybe a place could be found for his specific skills. "Stationed on Namek? Right.. So I was.." His voice not too assured by the statement, not confidence in his own words. "I'd gladly converse with the other leaders, making some kind of arrangement feels totally ideal. Seeing as the main base isn't here it may soon be time for me to depart. I hope to prove my worth, but being on this planet isn't a good fit."

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