Private Chasing The Dragon

[Oz Neru]

​

Location: Cantonica, Canto Bight
Objective: Make Millions
Tag: Valin Zenth

---

Oz was enjoying himself as he played sabacc within the casino. Letting out a hearty laugh as his corner of the table continued to fill swell with more and more chips, credits, hutt peggats after continually winning the pot round after round. Around him the other players and spectators laughed and cheered as well. Even the people he was playing against were compelled to give into the unnatural positive energy that surrounded Oz.

But the rogue Sith wasn’t interested in cashing out his earnings just yet and was willing to take more from those around him. The smiling people he was playing against came from all sorts of backgrounds. Some were finacle experts, profiteers, industrials, gambling addicts, and people just looking to have a fun time while on vacation. It didn’t matter if they were rich or poor, Oz was fine with bleeding them dry and bringing in new players to the fold to telepathically compel them to keep playing until they couldn’t anymore.

The blue man reached over to grab his drink and bring it to his lips. As he did and shifted his focus one of the other plays stirred some and seemed like they were gonna step away finally after losing hundreds of thousands of credits here. Just as they were about to get up and leave Oz’s eyes glared over at them sternly as he drank from his glass. Setting his drink down he spoke. “Oh my, calling it quits already are we?” His voice was soft yet carried a slight mocking tone within it. “Can’t you play one more game? I’m sure you'll be in the pot then?” He said, feeding them a mix of mental domination and enticing them with a sunken cost fallacy. Rather promptly the other player sat themselves back down at the table.

Oz had been teasing all those around him harshly. Offering just enough hope and reward to keep them playing to chase the dragon that was the millions worth of chips at his end of the table. Effortlessly sensing through those around him on how to play his sabacc cards to keep himself on a reliable winning streak to continue milking every credit out of them that he could and forcing them to feel happy as he did so.​

 

[Valin Zenth]

TAGS: Oz Neru​

Valin sat at a corner table, his eyes fixed on his target. This wasn't the place to act. For now, he watched and waited, counting the wins as they passed. He sensed the man was skilled like Tirin but with a more nefarious use of his powers.

The room buzzed with excitement, but Valin remained focused. He was uncertain if the man was a major player in the larger game he was concerned about, but one thing was certain: this was a dark side user. The man's aura was a mix of deceit and malevolence, manipulating the outcomes and bending the wills of the other players.

Valin had little love for those who gambled their lives away. This man's gambling was a means to exploit and dominate. Confronting him here would be too risky, endangering innocent bystanders and causing collateral damage. Valin needed a plan to isolate and neutralize his target without putting others in harm's way.

The minutes turned into hours, and Valin waited, observing every move. Valin tensed, readying himself. The time for observation was nearing its end. Soon, he would have to act.

​

 

[Oz Neru]

​

Location: Cantonica, Canto Bight
Objective: Make Millions
Tag: Valin Zenth

---

After winning plenty more rounds, increasing the size of his earnings, and drinking many more cocktails Oz was finally beginning to think that it was time to free the poor souls under his influence. Standing up he grabbed his credit chip and spoke to the other patrons. “Welp, seems like this old high roller is gonna be checking in for the night. It’s been great though and I’m sure you all will have better luck next time. Chow.” The Sith said rather casually as he stepped away from the sabacc table. Leaving behind a cloud of despair and dread over those he siphoned money from.

The pantoran’s attire was simple yet elegant. Dark, luxurious silk robes that matched his long hair and contrasted with his blue skin. Currently his eyes were a more natural yellow hue for his species. Currently not showing their fiery reality. He was unaware of the Jedi within the room that was keeping an eye on him. Their presence was masked and suppressed enough to match the rest of the drab pedestrians that filled the casino.

He was making his way to one of the counters with staff attending it for people to buy or cash out here. But Oz got the feeling that he was being watched, not by any Jedi, but by security who’d likely been watching and surveilling his actions and winning streak. Just before he could reach the right person to cash out his winnings, Oz suddenly found himself approached by more stern staff. Who had a very unwelcoming disposition and seemed set on wanting the pantoran to leave. Possibly waiting until his game to not make as much of a scene and more.

Once he was addressed Oz let out a chuckle before gazing into the security members and their leader. “Piss off…” The pantoran Sith said crudely. Not looking to sugar coat his vocabulary when he was being annoyed like this. After he said his words the security staff’s stern expressions wavered and their skin went a few shades paler before backing off. After seeing that they were such good listeners a wide, gleeful smile grew on Oz’s face as he continued along his path, making sure to give the security leader a playful pat on the head as he walked by them. ​

 

[Valin Zenth]

TAGS: Oz Neru

​

Valin watched carefully, maintaining a distance of at least forty feet. He observed the interaction with security, keeping his distance while he spoke to one of the attendants. Lighting a cigarette, Valin took a long drag and used the reflections in glass sections and windows to discreetly keep an eye on the man. He had to act the part of a patron, seemingly heading in the same direction, albeit a little behind his target.

As the man moved through the casino, the dim lighting and bustling crowd created an atmosphere thick with tension. Valin's senses were heightened; every shadow seemed to hold a potential threat, every passerby a possible obstacle. The soft hum of slot machines and the murmur of conversations contrasted sharply with the intensity of his focus. He exhaled a thin stream of smoke, blending into the haze that hung in the air, all while his eyes never truly left his quarry.

The man he followed was skilled, his movements almost imperceptible as he glided through the crowd, but Valin was equally adept. He matched the man's pace, maintaining his cover as just another patron enjoying the night's revelry. The reflections in the glass provided him with a fragmented but sufficient view of his target's actions.

Valin's mind raced, calculating the next steps, weighing the risks of confrontation versus the necessity of his mission.

 

[Oz Neru]

​

Location: Cantonica, Canto Bight
Objective: Make Millions
Tag: Valin Zenth

---

With security out of the way Oz had no issue finally cashing in on his earnings this evening. Making millions will require practically no effort. It was like stealing candy from a baby. Actually, it was easier than that since he didn’t need to deal with the hassle of a crying child getting on his nerves.

The roguish Sith then wondered if he should retire for the night or do something else. He got a feeling that was both unnerving and thrilling at the same time. As if he was being watched. Not that it was very concerning for him though. He wondered if there was a gambler or two here that was terribly envious of his luck this evening.

Despite not wanting anything to do with security here, he did find the idea of putting a greedy gambler in their place rather amusing. But he knew that if anyone wanted to make a move on him they wouldn’t do it out in the open like this. They’d probably wait until he was in a more vulnerable spot. Oz’s ideas on what he might do now were all so exciting, even if they were just fantasies currently.

Oz finally decided to head away from the casino lounge and make his way to his hotel room further into the building. He doubted that if he was accosted that security wouldn’t bother helping him. He made his way into the halls where the hotel rooms were. The rogue Sith was alone, trying to make himself seem vulnerable for any would-be stalkers. ​

 

[Valin Zenth]

TAGS: Oz Neru

Valin moved with the precision of a predator, every step deliberate and measured. The tension in the air didn't faze him; it only sharpened his focus. His breath was steady, his mind clear, as he kept his distance, watching the Sith move ahead with a calculated calm.

He reached into his coat and pulled out a cigarette, lighting it with a flick of his lighter. The small flame illuminated his face for a brief moment, casting sharp shadows before he took a slow drag. The smoke curled up around him, mingling with the dim light of the corridor.

The cigarette was a familiar ritual, something to focus on as he calculated his next move. Valin knew better than to underestimate him. Patience was key. He exhaled a thin stream of smoke, letting it dissipate into the air as he continued to follow.

He could feel the moment drawing closer, but there was no rush, no urgency in his movements. Valin was in control, his mind a cold, calculating machine, assessing the risks, weighing the options. When the time came, he would act with precision and purpose, just as he always did.

The cigarette burned down slowly as Valin followed after.

 

[Oz Neru]

​

Location: Cantonica, Canto Bight
Objective: Make Millions
Tag: Valin Zenth

---

Oz entered his room soon enough. It wasn’t a particularly luxurious accommodation. The rouge sith pulled out a datapad and began to transfer his winnings this evening to a secure account. Piling more more credits into his increasingly bloated savings. Built up from many of the scams and cons he’s done since being a free man once again. One of his favorites being to brainwash wealthy elites into simply giving him portions of their fortune.

Looking out the window of his room the pantoran reached up to undo some of his hair. Letting his dark strands fall loosely down his back before stretching his arms lazily.

But he got the feeling that danger might be near, a slight tremor in The Force warning him of something. A sly grin crept onto Oz’s face as he began to wonder about what could possibly be in store for him. He did love thrills and excitement. ​

 

[Valin Zenth]

LOCATION:
TAGS: Oz Neru​

Valin leaned his back casually against the door, taking a final drag from his cigarette. The ember flared, a brief spark of defiance, before he snuffed it out and flicked the butt to the ground. With a subtle wave of his hand, he unlocked the door using the Force, then let his weight pull him backward, effortlessly falling into the room as the door swung open. His hands had fallen to his side slipping in to the leather straps.

 

[Oz Neru]

​

Location: Cantonica, Canto Bight
Objective: Make Millions
Tag: Valin Zenth

---

Oz perked up as he heard the door suddenly open. The blue man was currently shirtless and slowly turned back to see who had entered. Seeing the white haird man they were easily over a foot taller than Oz. “Oh my, I wasn’t expecting company at this hour…” He said with a somewhat lazy and playful tone. The Pantoran could tell that they were Force Sensitive as well. It seemed as though he was going to need to leave this place planet now sooner than he’d wanted to.

Casually holding up his hand he summoned a soft bath robe on the bed and into his hands before starting to cover his exposed torso with it. “So what did little ol’ me do to deserve having a hunk like you barge into my room?” Oz asked as a slight smirk curled onto his blue lips.​

 

[Valin Zenth]

TAGS: Oz Neru

Valin's blasters were drawn as he strode into the room, their point fixed on the man even as he moved. Valin met Oz's playful smirk with one of his own, a hint of flirtation laced in his voice. " As much as I'd love to chat about all the ways you've been bending the rules, or all the ways I could bend you, I'm really here for a different kind of catch. But hey, if you want to keep things cozy, I'm not opposed to a little… negotiation—after all, it's not every day I get to arrest someone with such… taste in robes—or lack thereof."

 

[Oz Neru]

​

Location: Cantonica, Canto Bight
Objective: Make Millions
Tag: Valin Zenth

---

Oz raised a brow as he began to tighten the integrated belt around his robe. As he did it tightened against his body and accentuated his curves. “Huh… You do seem a little overqualified to be casino security.” The use of blasters and their disheveled attire didn't give him the impression that this was some light-sided hound from the core. They also seemed very flirty as well.

“Negotiations? You wouldn’t happen to be some dissatisfied gambler, who’d turned green with envy hmm?” Oz teased some before gently crossing his arms over his chest. “Also, do you need to keep guns aimed at me? Isn’t a big guy like you intimidating enough. Or…” Oz’s lips curled into a sly grin. “Are you compensating for something?”​

 

[Valin Zenth]

TAGS: Oz Neru

Valin's smirk faded into a more serious expression as he tilted his head slightly, his eyes narrowing. "Yeah, I'm compensating for my lack of manners," he replied, his voice firm and unyielding. The flirtation was gone, replaced by the cold, commanding tone of someone who wasn't playing games anymore.

"Kiss the ground, hands on your head," Valin ordered, his blasters steady and unwavering. His stance was tense, ready for any sudden movement, but his voice carried the weight of someone who expected obedience without question. The room seemed to grow quieter, the tension between them thickening as Valin's eyes bore into Oz's, waiting for the Pantoran's response.

 

[Oz Neru]

​

Location: Cantonica, Canto Bight
Objective: Make Millions
Tag: Valin Zenth

---

Hearing the tall man’s words Oz’s expression went from sly, to shocked, and then eventually to a bit of a frown. His eyes narrowing sternly at the invader for a moment before softening some again. “Oh well I can appreciate a man who is forward and knows what he wants.” Oz continued to tease. He then flashed them a wicked grin. Seemingly looking to challenge them a bit more.

“But you haven’t even said the magic word yet. Ask nicely and I might be willing to play along with this little game of yours.” Having some fun with this random yet thrilling encounter. However, Oz had no desire to actually follow through with the demands of the man before him. He had no interest at being in the mercy of another for as long as he lived. By now he was getting a better look at the white haired man. Who appeared to have some pretty extensive scarring across much of their face. It looked like a familiar wound. Looking as though they have been struck by lightning. The only question was the origin of such a shock.​

 

[Valin Zenth]

Oz Neru

Valin remained unimpressed as he began unloading stun rounds at Oz Neru, his aim precise and strategic. Each shot was calculated so that if Oz dodged, he would have to contend with the next barrage in rapid succession. Valin advanced on the Pantoran, fully prepared to capture him—even if it meant getting physical.
​

 

[Oz Neru]

​

Location: Cantonica, Canto Bight
Objective: Make Millions
Tag: Valin Zenth

---

Oz’s expression turned more to shock as he was shot by Valin. Unfortunately his body no longer had the same resilience to being overwhelmed like it used to. His brain and parts of his nervous system however remained partially functional after getting shot once. His body sagging under it’s own weight as Oz glared at Valin, struggling to remain conscious. A sudden darkness practically oozed from his body as he sought to put the white haired man in their place.

But the continued shots eventually overloaded him. Causing Oz to fall down onto his knees before face planting against the carpeted floor beneath him. Followed by a slight rubble the shook the floors and walls within the room. Making the lights around them rapidly flicker on and off. Breathing harshly through gritted teeth before finally succumbing to the stun rounds and falling unconscious on the floor. Allowing the room and the lights steady themselves once more.​

 

[Valin Zenth]

TAGS: Oz Neru

In short order, Oz was secured with specialized restraints designed specifically for Force users. He was swiftly transported, and when he finally came to, he found himself in a specially designed brig. The room was stark and cold, the walls bare and unwelcoming, with hard surfaces that made it feel more like a prison cell than anything else. The chill in the air was palpable, seeping into his bones.

As his eyes adjusted to the dim light, he noticed a figure sitting across from him. The man was slender and lithe, draped in a long silk night robe that flowed over his form, revealing bandages wrapped tightly around his chest and stomach. His sharp, violet eyes gleamed with a mixture of curiosity and something more unsettling. The man lounged in a wheeled chair, leaning back casually, as if he had all the time in the world to watch Oz struggle to get his bearings.

 

[Oz Neru]

​

Location: Cantonica, Canto Bight
Objective: Make Millions
Tag: Tirin Raene

---

Oz felt strange as he finally woke up. His body had a sort of weightlessness to it. As he opened his eyes and began to focus on where he was and his orientation he shook some as he floated. His limbs flinched as if he'd just woken up from a dream where he was plummeting to the ground. “Huh, what? Where?” He asked moving his head around the room to see what else there was.

Eventually he turned his head to look at the wheelchair bound man and narrowed his fiery eyes some. “Hmm, and you are?” The rogue sith said as he struggled a bit against his invisible restraints. It looked as if he was stuck in some sort of ray shield keeping him in place suspended in the air. “What do you want with me? I got places to be, you know?” That wasn’t entirely true. Oz had become something of a hedonistic vagabond in the galaxy. Going around wherever and whenever he pleased.​

 

[Tirin Raene]

Oz Neru

"You may call me Tirin," he stated with calm assurance.

"Ah yes... more casinos to wipe clean, more minds to toy with?" Tirin's voice held a quiet edge, his sharp gaze never wavering.

"I can't allow you to continue using the Force so recklessly," he declared, his tone measured. "You might become too complacent, and then... who knows what lines you wouldn't cross."

With deliberate care, Tirin rose, clutching his bandaged side. "We want information on the Sith Order—their operations, their agendas. Do you have this knowledge?"

 

[Oz Neru]

​

Location: Cantonica, Canto Bight
Objective: Make Millions
Tag: Tirin Raene

---

“Perciscly, Mr Tirin.” Oz replied confidently, as if seeing no issue with ruining the lives of others through abusing The Force. “Too complacent, I don’t see an issue with that. Kinda what I want actually.” Oz just wanted to live the easy life now and not worry for a thing anymore. Perhaps Tirin was too late to prevent Oz from crossing those lines. A hundred years too late.

He noticed the way the dark haired man clutched his bandages. His fiery eyes narrowing and his lips curling into a slight smirk. “The Sith Order?” Oz asked, starting to understand now why he seemed to have been captured. “Hmm sorry friend, I don’t think you’ll get much out of me.” If Oz could shrug he would. “It’s been a long time for me. But I guess I can share what I know…” With that said the blue “sith” began to ramble on about seemingly irrelevant information. Where nothing he said could line up with what was happening presently. Talking about various Sith lords whom had their rise to powers hundreds of years ago, such as Darth Krayt.

“... And I don’t know if the old man is still around. I didn’t get the idea he was in his prime the last I heard of him.” Oz continued to explain, having no compunctions about spilling the beans on what he did know. Even if none of it was particularly helpful or relevant. "Now I gotta ask, why do you wanna know all this?"​

 

[Tirin Raene]

Oz Neru


Tirin returned to his seat as the realization of what Oz was talking about dawned on him. He waited patiently for Oz to finish speaking.

"Then it seems you are misplaced in time," Tirin mused, a hint of curiosity in his voice. "You must marvel at all the advancements in technology across the stars."

Tirin's expression grew more serious as he leaned forward. "We're searching for present-day Sith operatives. And now that I've caught you in my web, I'm faced with some difficult decisions about what to do with you." His voice trailed off, leaving the weight of his words hanging in the air.