Private Just at the surface.

[Darth Void]

A planet of floating cities Littora IV came into view from the windows in front of the navicomputer of the Grey Ghost. Its surface known for its Walking Seas, submerging 60% of the planet topside, numerous tidal flats, and unstable waves of the coastlines with its population being a mix of Rodian, Aqualish, Quarrens and humans. There was a culture for business on this planet. And it is just what Void was seeking. Breaking through the atmosphere, the Grey Ghost smoothly maneuvered towards its destination - The Farshore. A large floating city above the waters, tidal flowers can be seen among the coastlines as the interceptor approached the capital.

"Grey Ghost Fury-Interceptor. You may dock at station 908. Please proceed." a male voice spoke over the intercom. "Welcome Lord Void."

The Grey Ghost landed at the designated station, various Rodian workers came towards the ship to attach fuel lines immediately for the Darths ship. Void stood from the controls and allowed her droid HV-182 to complete the rest of the docking procedures. A beeping at the holoterminal gained her attention as Void walked off the bridge and stood in front of the Holoterminal. A Quarren male form projected in the terminal. "Lord Void! Welcome, I have your shipment ready to be delivered to your cargo hold."

"Very good." Void responded and nodded once to HV who approached to signal him to transmit the credits for the supplies. "As we agreed. Your technology is second to none. I thank you for your product." The Quarren bowed its squid head in respect to the Darth "You honor me Darth Void. Thank you for your business." the transmission ended and Void followed HV towards the cargo hold of the ship, the doors opened revealing a large room with numerous storage containers, a ramp was extended from below. Several Rodian workers began loading the ship. Now the business was being handled, Void walked back and across the ship towards the conference room. She paused momentarily in front of the crew quarters door. She could sense Malevolum on the other side. Moving away from the door, Void entered the conference room on the opposite side. It held numerous seats and a large table with a large projector in the center which Void utilized for marking her Jedi targets and plotting their demise.

Darth Malevolum

 

[Darth Malevolum]

Malevolum had kept to herself for much of the trip, the reason? It was difficult to let people see her outside of her second skin, outside of her suit. She hated the feelings that flooded her nervous system when she shed herself of the skin, and how frail and vulnerable she appeared without it. She had nearly killed HV on instinct when the droid had walked in on her, so after that she had begun to lock the door. She wasn't used to this. On her star destroyer, she never had to worry about someone storming into her quarters, least they risk flirting with death, but here? She had no such protection. It was different, and as such required her to adjust. Still, the robes that had been given to her felt...nice. Malevolum couldn't stand wearing them for long, as without her armor she felt even more exposed to the world. Void posed an issue for her, mainly because the Darth had already seen her be vulnerable, and as far as Malevolum knew, Void would think her of being weak.

Littora IV was not a world she had been to before, truth be told if she hadn't been reading about it in her free time, she would have thought the planet to have not existed. It sounded rather lovely, an ocean world that stretched on as far as the eye could see. It sounded rather charming. Sadly she had no time to look upon it, there was work to do; not like she had anyone to share that time with anyways. Using her audio implants, she kept track of what Void was up to, and it sounded like she was aiming to resupply her ship for the journey ahead; which seemed fair.

Feeling Void was close by, Malevolum knew it was time to speak with her fellow Darth. Donning her armor and remade jaw-plate, Malevolum stepped into the corridor, and joined the Darth in the conference room; ignoring the men that were busy loading the ship up with supplies. The Darth glanced over at the room, her eyes studying how quaint it was. It was a nice contrast to her own ship, especially given her meeting room was much larger than this; still it was serviceable. She looked to Void, walking past the table as she would circle around the table. Making a motion with her hand, Malevolum shut the door behind her, wishing to speak with Void one to one. Hopefully HV hadn't informed his master about having seen her without her suit. "You have a nice vessel, and even a tolerable droid servant." She was growing rather receptive of HV, and given the fact he had installed her implants and fixed her jaw plate, there might have been some bias at work. Malevolum detached the jaw plate, setting it on the table, as a way to signify that she was going to be straight with Void. "I asked that you come with me to kill my former master. I wanted to clarify that point. It's my jedi master, from when I worked for the order." Malevolum's brow twitched, as she crossed her arms, memories of her old master tormented her ego. "He ambushed me on Tatooine, and managed to escape. From what I understand, he's lost his mind, training anyone who will listen to them and making a cult of sudo-jedi with the goal of turning me back to the light." She left out the parts of the torture, of the threats her master had levied to her, and how the man spent hours choking her to the verge of unconsciousness and trying to have his Tusken allies beat her into submission with gaffi sticks. 'I'll reforge you into the woman I once knew.' The words of the old man stung like an open wound. "Needless to say, this is a personal matter. Last time I tried to face him alone I was swarmed by his followers and bested. Hence why now, I'm seeking a second to come with me. If you think this pitiful, then I'll find someone else. But I thought you'd best know before you devote yourself to this cause, though truth be told I'm puzzled as to why you were so eager to accept this task." It was true, Malevolum had no idea why Void was willing to accept this role so quickly, especially when Malevolum had nearly died from a training exercise just hours before. There was much that Malevolum wanted to know about this new Darth, and she hoped to uncover more during their time together.

Darth Void

 

[Darth Void]

When Malevolum arrived, Void felt she came with intention to speak to her. To clear the air so to speak. Void turned her masked head, her eyes following the Darth's every step. The doors shut behind her and the red light came on signifying it was locked. She was dressed in the robes, Void could sense the discomfort and vulnerability within the Sith as she walked around the table across from her. It was to be expected, Malevolum survived a brain bleed, half her implants had to be reimplanted, and she was in an unfamiliar ship with another Darth "You have a nice vessel, and even a tolerable droid servant." Most Sith Lords prefer large and lavish destroyers, but not Void. "He is rather unique." added Void to lighten the tension slightly.

As the jawplate was set on the table with the intent of discussion of truth, Void could only stare in disbelief at the action while Malevolum explained. "I asked that you come with me to kill my former master. I wanted to clarify that point. It's my jedi master, from when I worked for the order." A Jedi? She was a former Jedi as well? "He ambushed me on Tatooine, and managed to escape. From what I understand, he's lost his mind, training anyone who will listen to them and making a cult of sudo-jedi with the goal of turning me back to the light." the Sith has quite the history. Void could only imagine what this Jedi Master had done to her. "Jedi you say..." contemplated Void out loud, as the other Darth continued "Needless to say, this is a personal matter. Last time I tried to face him alone I was swarmed by his followers and bested. Hence why now, I'm seeking a second to come with me. If you think this pitiful, then I'll find someone else. But I thought you'd best know before you devote yourself to this cause, though truth be told I'm puzzled as to why you were so eager to accept this task." as she spoke, Void pulled out a datapad placing it onto the table and slid it across for the other Sith. On it was a list of deceased Jedi Masters that continued for several pages. Each with prior history of direct and indirect attack on Sith Lords and acolytes alike. Darth Void proceeded to walk forward and around the table speaking as she rounded to the other side to be face to face with Malevolum. "Lucky for you.. I'm a Jedi Hunter." stopping in front of the other woman to allow her to take in Darth Void's true mission and what she could offer.

Void reached and lifted the jawplate gently off the table inspecting HV's beautiful handiwork. Extending the hand, she offered the jawplate back to Malevolum. It was a simple but profound action as she asked "Where do we start?" she wanted the other woman to know that none of this was pitiful to her. At all. It was just. That was her answer, she would help.

The cargo hold panel shut closed stirring a vibration through the ship indicating that the loading has been completed. Outside the door, HV reported "Lord Void, the resupply has been completed. Shall I make arrangements for us to depart while you plan your next fun conquest?" clearly the droid enjoyed to antagonize the Lord with sarcasm. Void shook her head and cleared her throat "Tolerable at best." humor present in the tone. Poor Malevolum would have quite the company to adjust to.

Darth Malevolum

 

[Darth Malevolum]

Malevolum was uncertain as how to go about speaking with Void, but it seemed that her words were eloquent enough; though Void's responses were short and to the point. She thought that the revelation of her past as a jedi knight would threaten her position with the Darth, but yet it seemed to remain untarnished. She felt a tad bit better about chosing Void as her companion for this affair, especially as the datapad was slid over towards her. Looking over the list, Malevolum was rather impressed, as it seemed Void had far more kills to her name than she herself had. Nodding, seemingly approving of the list, Malevolum returned the datapad. "Then it seems I've found the right person for the job." Her eyes caught Voids motion as the Darth collected the jaw plate off the table, before handing it to Malevolum. She felt relief, though she hid it behind her front, as she accepted the plate. She understood the gesture, but still had no clue as to why Void was being so accepting. It didn't make sense to her. She stared at Void for a moment, again trying to make heads or tails of her fellow darth, and coming up with nothing.

When Void inquired about what they were to do next, Malevolum only had an educated guess for where she was to seek her old master out. "Well, I think he is hiding away on Raxas-" She found herself cut off by the droid, who spoke behind the door of the conference room. It seemed that perhaps they could get on with their voyage. A half amused snort came from the Darths lips, from Voids retort. "Indeed." She held the jaw plate in her hands, running her fingers over the plate; HV had done quite a good job of capturing the look. "As I was saying, Raxus Prime would be the ideal place to look." She mused, looking back to Void, stepping aside so that the Darth might attend to her droid if need be. "I must admit, I had an alternative motive by asking you to come along. I'm rather perplexed by you, and seek to understand you better before I solidify an allaince with yourself." She kept the plate in her hand for a moment, but would attach it back if Void motioned to let the droid into the room. Malevolum had her own customs for dealing with people after all, removing her mask was the closest she could come with being formal with someone.

Darth Void

 

[Darth Void]

Void watched as she received the jawplate back from her hand with no distrust in her movement. There was a moment, Void felt like the other Sith was trying to figure her out. Would she allow her implants in her eyes to see through her mask and peer at the face behind it without consent? Judging by the air of silence, she hadn't. "As I was saying, Raxus Prime would be the ideal place to look." Void's eyebrows shot up at the mention of the planet "Don't they call it the garbage pit?" asked the Sith incredulously "It would make sense... its only inhabitants are droids with no masters. Among other things I am sure." To be quite honest, Void hasn't traveled to Raxus Prime more than once. Her master had a mission there to retrieve old artifacts and Void was just a mere puppet to assist at the time. "Then that's where we will start." affirmed Void as Malevolum stepped aside for her.

The Darth was halted in mid stride as Malevolum spoke up from behind her "I must admit, I had an alternative motive by asking you to come along. I'm rather perplexed by you, and seek to understand you better before I solidify an alliance with yourself." it was then she realized that Malevolum still held the jawplate in her hands. Here she had stood vulnerable to Void without the jawplate and the Sith gave nothing in return but the simple words and a datapad that still lay there on the table that couldn't be backed without action.

Void reached up and pulled back the cowl revealing her short dark hair. A low hiss followed as the mask unhinged itself from Void's face. Her hand took the mask off and dropped to her side.

Spoiler: Unmasked

Turning her head revealed a strong jawline with high cheekbones. Her hair shaved on the sides and back. Finally facing Malevolum, her eyes were a pair of dark grey storms that had a haunted and tired look to them as she gazed back at the other Sith. A single scar marred her right eyebrow, she was by no means a dazzling beauty, but she had androgynous features. Hardened by years of hunting Jedi, she held a stoic expression as she waited for a reaction from Malevolum. Her lips opened and she spoke with her real voice "There's nothing to understand. Except that when Jedi fall. They don't come back. I make sure of that." it was only fair of Void to also reveal herself. Her presence in the force suddenly revealing the loss and emptiness like a constant raw wound that is Darth Void. "We must make the Jedi pay. For everything." she spoke evenly as though restraining whatever inner hatred she held for the light. Where Malevolum came from didn't change the person Void was looking at now. And she wanted that to be clear to her by revealing her identity beneath the mask.

Spoiler: Voice sample

If this action didn't garner Darth Malevolum's trust, the least it could do was place a face to her name for her. She felt just as exposed as Malevolum did this very moment, the feeling was almost paralyzing. They were alone, sans HV outside the door on standby awaiting instructions. What was the other Sith thinking? Surely she didn't look that messed up compared to some species right? Void couldn't help but wonder as she took in a quiet breath to focus herself back to the matters at hand now that they were on an even playing field before beginning again "These sudo-jedi... What do you know of them? Any information you can give will be useful." This was perhaps the most that Void had ever spoken to someone, the brusqueness in her manner wasn't everyone's cup of tea. But they had to start somewhere. And that somewhere was with working together. And trusting one another.

Darth Malevolum

 

[Darth Malevolum]

Void would be happy to know Malevolum hadn't attempted to peak with her cybernetic eyes. The most the Sith had done was examine the bone structure of her fellow Sith in an attempt to solidify a gender with the Darth, but there was no need for that now. "Well, one man's trash is another man's treasure, so they say." She responded to Void's initial statement, and the one following that. "There are reports of scavenging camps forming on the planet as well. It wouldn't surprise me if he attempted to blend in and act as a healer for them." Ordin had always been good at that, getting people to trust him, and keeping people from knowing the monster that lurked beneath the surface.

What Void did however, she had not expected. It seemed she wasn't the only one who hid behind masks. Malevolum stared at the revealed face, studying the features of her fellow Darth. There was a sympathy given in the eyes of Malevolum, as she knew all to well about hiding behind an image. There was an understanding that did not require words, merely locking eyes with the Darth would ensure they were of the same mind; at least Malevolum hoped. Her features were unique, an odd mix of beauty with a touch of confusion in the mind of the Sith; the mix between feminine and male features played back and forth in her mind. A small smile stretched across her face, showing that all would be well. She nodded at the words of her fellow Sith, feeling the small shift in emotions that her words sparked forth. "I agree. Their way is corrupt and the course needs to be corrected with their destruction." Perhaps there would be a time to disclose her past to her companion, but that would all be in due time. Hearing the real voice of the woman was nice, it seemed like everyone had a way to make themselves sound less 'human'. Malevolum herself was no stranger to that, her own accent had to be reigned in, because no one would take a Darth who sounded like a backwater scavenger. She had done well to train that accent out of her, but there was always a risk of slipping into it if she was too relaxed.

"I know nothing of the sudo-jedi. The last one I encountered was a Tusken Shaman who knew how to use the winds and sands as a weapon. I imagine the ones he seeks to train will have some natural affinity with using droids." In truth, Malevolum had no idea what her master was planning, but it was clear that he still had that same goal of dragging her back into the light; even though he was clearly veering into the dark because of it. Malevolum eyed up the Sith once more, before commenting. "Truth be told, I'm relived that I'm not the only 'normal' looking one among our lot. Everyone either has some sort of horrendous disfigurement, or they mutate themselves into something demonic." Which was the absolute truth. Everyone in the Sith seemed to have something wrong with their face, or be a monster; sometimes even both.



Darth Void

 

[Darth Void]

Void was used to having others look at her with fear or hatred. But the way Malevolum looked at her, it didn't make Void feel judged or wrong. A feeling she was quite used to having. Instead there was humanity behind her implants. She looked at her like a human being. Void's features softened slightly at her reaction. If anything, the Sith seemed to relax a little in her presence. Some of her walls had come down, and Malevolum hadn't pushed her away. Quite the contrary, she smiled and Void found herself gazing back into her eyes as her own tumultuous feelings of pain seemed to calm down and wane around her oddly enough.

The Darth approached the table and placed her mask on it gently before moving her hand beneath the table and pressing a switch as Malevolum spoke in detail of her last known run-in with her Master and his lackeys. "I know nothing of the sudo-jedi. The last one I encountered was a Tusken Shaman who knew how to use the winds and sands as a weapon. I imagine the ones he seeks to train will have some natural affinity with using droids." The projector came alive with the map of the galaxy spread out all around them in a soft red glow. Void was looking up and around towards the Outer Rim clusters searching for Raxus Prime, her eyebrows knitted together pensive as her analytical mind began working out different approaches once planetside. "Okay." she nodded as she took in the information "Those droids will be unavoidable too." Feeling Malevolum's gaze on her, Void's left eyebrow came up as she heard her say "Truth be told, I'm relieved that I'm not the only 'normal' looking one among our lot. Everyone either has some sort of horrendous disfigurement, or they mutate themselves into something demonic." a small wolfish smirk tugged at the corner of her mouth in reaction. She tilted her head in Malevolum's direction "Don't know what's worse.. that or having a squid for a head. Or tentacles. Lots of tentacles." she jested, keeping her voice low as if starting a scandalous rumur. Her hand came up and pinched in on a small shining planet. "Raxus Prime." she presented as the chosen planet was zoomed in on before them revealing an industrial metal junkscape surface with a single sun.

Spoiler: Raxus Prime

HV-182's voice came over the intercom overhead, "My apologies Lord Void, Lord Malevolum. My sensors show that you are investigating Raxus Prime. Shall I plot the course for this planet so that your mayhem can ensue?" privacy was another topic she was to discuss with the droid, Void mentally checked off as she pinched the bridge of her nose. "Yes, HV. Please do." commanded the Sith with exasperation in her voice "And HV, please stop doing that." was her last request so that she could focus with Malevolum. "Yes, my lord!" came the reply. Letting out a sigh, Void brought her hand to several locations on the planet, "We have some key places to start searching.. looks like the Siener Refinery here, the Raxus sewer system, an old confederecy base and the junk temple." she listed off as she marked the various locations on the projected planet. A pensive expression on her face as she considered the locations before them. Looking to Malevolum, the hue of the projections cased them both in a red glow "Your call." spoke Void, her tone was encouraging, wherever Malevolum chose - she would be adaptable to. It was her mission after all. Void would have her back. The starship let out a low grumble as it undocked from the station and began its ascent to space.

Darth Malevolum

 

[Darth Malevolum]

Whatever the feeling was in the room, Malevolum felt greatly at ease. Perhaps the fact that they were both dropping the facades helped, either way, she felt a tad more comfortable without her jaw plate. With Void moving to the table, Mal moved to be opposite her counter part, as the projection displayed the planet in question. She comment about droids caused the Darth to wave the concern away. "They'll be piles of junk if nothing else. A good push will knock them away, but in large numbers they could prove a nusciance. I'm concerned how many idiots he might have brought to his side." The comment about having a squid head caused the smile to widen, as Mal was glad to see Void understood what humor was. Mal replied back, keeping to the hushed tone that Void had started. "I'm curious how they consume soup. It would seem to be a challenge given their condition. At least the tentacles can have their uses. The squid head however, that just seems unappealing." When the planet came into focus, Mal only shook her head. What a disgusting little world. It was like the galaxy's personal garbage bin. "Fitting place for a jedi's grave. A planet filled with garbage, just like their order."

Malevolum looked up to the intercom as the droid began to speak, a hint of amusement crossed her features, as Void and HV exchanged words. "It must be difficult to bring your dates on board. Your droid seems programmed to ruin the moment." It was an obvious joke, aimed to tease Void; and given she had no mask to hide behind, it was time to test the waters. Turning her attention to the map, Mal stroked her chin as she looked at the several sites. There was one site she felt most strongly about, and she'd start her proposal with a hint of humor. "I dont know about you, but if I was a senile decrepit old man, I'd want to reside in a temple. Especially if I was training my own padawans." Ordin did always try and stay above the rest of the rabble. It would be just like him to set up in the ruins of a temple.


Darth Void

 

[Darth Void]

Funny how a conference room on an interceptor would be the safe haven for them both to be able to drop their guards around one another. Talking strategy with the red constellations all around them. It felt right thought Void as she listened to Malevolum mention the numbers of the droids "You're right." A rare smile finally made its way to her face revealing white teeth at the thought of the other species trying to slurp soup from a bowl. Not quite the image anyone would want to witness she was certain "Lots of slurping." retorted the Sith.

"Fitting place for a jedi's grave. A planet filled with garbage, just like their order." Nodding in agreement as she placed both hands on the table, the surface lit up to reveal the landscape planetside before them. For such a small ship, Void made sure to have the best technology installed for meetings like this.

"It must be difficult to bring your dates on board. Your droid seems programmed to ruin the moment." she teased her. Void's eyebrows came up curiously. Thankful for the red hue around them because she could feel the heat in her face creep up at the remark from Malevolum. "Oh, they run screaming. But not this moment.. yet." she responded coyly. Who was she kidding? Void had no such liaisons honestly. She couldn't help but stare as Malevolum brought her hand up to her chin where the jaw plate would usually sit. The memory of her hand brushing the blood off the side of her face came to Void's mind and her reaction to her touch. She wouldn't dare try to overstep again unless consent permitted. However she couldn't help but wonder how the skin would feel had she not wore gloves.

Blinking away the memory and unexpected thought, Void cleared her throat looking down at the landscape before them as she quickly recollected herself, "Do you think he is trying to find the next... you?" she asked looking up at her companion, her expression serious. She had seen this before, a master so consumed with finding the right successor that they just downright went mad. And on an old planet filled with old relics, the force was an unstable and ambiguous thing. There were just so many factors. However it was in favor to the Sith. Unless Malevolum's master is beginning to fall to the dark side. "What he did to you. He won't leave that planet alive." it was more than an assurance. It was her word. Yes, the possibility of taking a Jedi Master and turning them to the dark side was much more profitable, however this was not such a case. Void didn't want Malevolum living looking over her shoulder. She swallowed hard once as she straightened out trying to understand why she felt the need to protect the other woman. The landscape proved to be impossible to land on with all the wreckage. They would have to drop down several feet which meant that the Grey Ghost will have to be on standby. "There." she pointed to a location approximately 400 yards from the temple which had enough clearing for them to disembark from the ship. There was no direct path to the temple, they would have to make their way past the scraps of old droids and ships sitting like a metal graveyard.

Darth Malevolum

 

[Darth Malevolum]

It seemed her jokes had landed their mark, which was rare, often her quips were ignored by her peers. This was a nice break from the norm. Here in this little conference room, they were free from the burden of being Sith Lords, they could be some what human with one another. It was a rare moment for her, at least for Malevolum, even her apprentices never had such a treatment. Mal raised her eyebrow to the woman, at the mention of 'the moment'. "That so?" She asked, looking to her fellow Darth. She could still feel the touch of Void's gloved hand against her cheek, and the sensation made her feel...things. Not unpleasant things, mind you, but these were things she didn't like to feel. Warm fuzzy emotions that she wanted to burn to a crisp. She reasoned that it had just been the brain hemorrhage that brought it on, clearly that was it. Yes, it was confusing her feelings about the event, making her misremember how things actually were. This was the reason she had the rules, this is why she kept people away. She was getting to comfortable, and she needed to keep herself in check, or she risked destroying this identity she had worked so hard to forge.

"There is no one else like me. He just never had a student leave the order, his pride enabled him to think he never made mistakes. When he did make one, his jedi arrogance prevented him from seeing his fault in my departure." Mal felt only the faintest bit of pity for the man, mostly because he had sacrificed his honor all for a perceived slight. If not for his taunts, Mal might have let him be, but now...no it was personal. Ordin would die. "When we will him, maybe I'll tell you all the pain he has wrought upon me." Her thoughts lingered to every single cruel thing she had suffered because of his guidance. She didn't fear her old master, no, rather he was an open wound on her life, a pulsating tumor that would torment her until it was cut out.

Void displayed the layout of the world, and it was rather obvious that they wouldn't be able to go at it on foot. A straight drop seemed to be the best way to go about it, though wading through a sea of rusted metal wasn't ideal. "We'll have to work out extraction at a later time. Leave it to Ordin to make this as annoying as possible." She looked to Void, eager to get this last fragment of her life done and over with. "How long do you think it'll take to get there?" She asked, unsure as to how fast Void's ship truly was. She secretly hoped for more time, perhaps they could make fun of their fellow Darths a bit longer.

Darth Void

 

[Darth Void]

When Malevolum looked back at her, Void found herself unable to meet her gaze. "That so?" she heard her voice, but she was trying to make sense of the other woman still as well as her own confusion. The galaxy was quite odd that way, sometimes people are placed in your life for a reason perhaps. Whatever Malevolum's role would be, Void knew that things are constantly shifting. She would grow bored of Void, or kill her. Whichever the case, Void found herself more easily focusing on the plan at hand to keep her thoughts from wandering for the moment. Even though she wasn't looking at her, Void was listening to her words intently. "Pride is the greatest downfall of all Jedi." murmured the Sith in response casting a glance up at her briefly. Her jaw clenched at the thought of what Malevolum had possibly been through with a Jedi who has such a following now.

She unfolded her bandaged hands from beneath the sleeves of the robe and reached forward to zoom in on several locations looking for extraction sites. Her eyes narrowed as she shook her head in disappointment "We'll have to work out extraction at a later time. Leave it to Ordin to make this as annoying as possible." shifting her weight slightly, Void chewed her lip as she continued to search. "How long do you think it'll take to get there?" Void let her hands fall to her sides giving up for the moment. HV would definitely have to be on standby. Clearance or not, they would get off that planet too.

"HV?" called out Void
"Yes, my lord?" came the droids voice on the intercom once again "What is our ETA to Raxus Prime?"
"Approximately 8 hours Lord Void."

"Thanks." she responded and pressed the panel to shut down the projection. The lights came back on in the conference room gradually as the red hue dissipated. Void made her way back towards the end of the table and reached for her mask. "Make yourself at home Malevolum." she said as she picked up the dark metal facade she had gotten so accustomed to. It was the first time she said the other Sith's name without a title, a bold and informal move. But it felt like they were on the same wavelength at this point, at least Void did. And hopefully she didn't overstep.

Darth Malevolum

 

[Darth Malevolum]

Malevolum found herself rather confused by the reaction of the Darth. It seemed Void had closed herself up from the outside, as the once receptive Darth seemed unable to speak now, other than speak of punishing jedi. Had she said something wrong? Hopefully not, she was rather enjoying the small exchange they had going. Then again, why did she care? They were Sith, hurt feelings were trivial, and Void could get over it....and yet, she found herself musing over what she had said wrong. It seemed by her physical indications that her fellow Darth had drawn herself back, perhaps Mal had overstretched in some facet. Perhaps they had both pushed on each other a little hard a little too quickly. Even the responses she had for HV were rather blunt, and Mal couldn't help but think that something had occurred; though what, she wasn't certain.

It seemed Void was ready to get a move on, as the woman was already making a move to depart. They still had eight hours together, perhaps time for a nap, meditation and a meal. Before Void could leave, Malevolum had to correct her on one thing. "Void." She started, "You can call me Mal. It's easier on the tongue." She would give the faintest hint of a smile, before getting a grip on herself. It would just be easier if they dropped titles. They had no one to impress, or no image to uphold right here and now. It was just them. It would be for sometime. "I'll have to find something to do for the next eight hours now." She mused to herself, pulling back her jaw plate, as she would be left to ponder over the nature of these feelings she was...erm...feeling. She would follow Void into the corridor, hoping to get one last word in before putting her jaw plate back on. "If I need to speak to you, where can I find you?" She asked, before lacking her mask into place. She fully expected to be ignored, after all, Void probably wanted to be left alone; it seemed like all Darths had a brooding meditation process they went through. If she was not given an answer, she would just retreat to the crew quarters and perhaps drop her facade once again. She needed to get her head into the game, and stop fretting over some Darth she had met just the other day.

Darth Void

 

[Darth Void]

In order to have a successful mission, one must always stay focused. No distractions, no entanglements. Otherwise there is risk for failure or worse, death. Of course Void wanted to help Malevolum free herself of the chains from her old master. But once she did, then what? Then they would part ways. The likelihood of the Empire requiring them to work together was going to be slim anyway so why bother. Right? Best to not get involved more than necessary. Otherwise she would start to care. So Void did what she naturally always did, keep those around her at arms length. Void never minded her solitude, quite the contrary, her stand-alone complex was perhaps the most irritating thing about her, nearly as irritating as her desire to help a particular Sith at the same time. Even if it meant sticking her neck out and possibly getting cut down in the process by either their enemy or betrayed by the other Sith. But it was a risk she was interested in taking.

"Void." she heard her call out as she reached the door, Void turned to look over her shoulder as she continued "You can call me Mal. It's easier on the tongue." and there was that reserved smile again. Void opened her mouth to say something but caught herself before she could tell Mal her real name and instead gave a grin "That it is." she said as the doors unlocked with a soft beep and slid open. She didn't bother putting on her mask, it was after all her ship. Her safehaven from the universe. And HV was the only other being who had seen her without her facade. "Ah Lord Void. Lord Malevolum!" HV stood outside the door like a kid caught listening on grown ups talking from behind a door. Quickly bowing his head once to them both as Void looked on with a quirked brow. "HV, can you please make sure our guest gets something to eat?" The cargo held a decent food storage that the droid took the liberty of organizing for them. "Why, of course my lord."confirmed the droid before leading Malevolum into the corridor. Stopping, she turned to the other woman when she asked "If I need to speak to you, where can I find you?" the doors had shut from the conference room behind them "In my quarters, just left of the bridge." she had chosen the location of her quarters to be closest to where her presence was needed most should any emergency happen. Time was always of the essence. "I'll see ya around... Mal." she added her name with a slow smile, she nodded once before turning and leaving the Sith in the corridor with HV.

"Grandest apologies for my Master, Lord Malevolum." piped up HV soon after Void's footsteps were out of earshot. "She hasn't had a real guest not since the explosion on Jaemus." the droid continued "Master Sera didn't make it unfortunately. My original master that is. But Lord Void has graciously taken me in! Now then! I hope you are hungry, my cooking faculties are as good as what you humans refer to as a 'Chef'!" announced HV with near pride his tone before leading her towards a makeshift kitchen by the cargo hold.

Void entered the Captains Quarters and leaned against the shut door and let out a sigh she didn't realize she was holding in. Glancing up, she relaxed immediately at the sight of the stars. This was partially the real reason she picked her quarters to be here, the roof of the quarters happened to have a large window to the outside. Walking over to her neatly made bed, Void laid down on her back after placing the mask on the nightstand. Lacing her fingers behind her head comfortably she gazed up into the abyss of space. Her thoughts came back to Malevolum more than once, there was so much she wanted to know about the Sith. Hopefully in due time she would open up to her when she was ready. Time was all she had left anyway in this world. Hopefully HV wasn't going to burn down the place cooking for the other woman.

Darth Malevolum

 

[Darth Malevolum]

She liked the way Void said her name, which was weird, it was just a name, but the implied casual nature just...put her at ease. Just like that, Void was gone, from her sight at least. Mal found herself reaching out to keep track of her fellow Darth, before snapping out of it; she needed to get a grip on herself. AT least she knew were to find Void, if she felt like approaching her for some reason. Mal stood there for a moment, listening to what HV had to say, but mostly feeling conflicted about what was unfolding between the two of them. She turned to the droid, curious as to the life of Void before, and it seemed now she had a direct way to learn about the woman. She fell in line behind the protocol droid, mentally forming a list of questions to ask. "So, she never has anyone else on board?" She sought to reaffirm that statement, even more puzzled why it would be her that Void brought along. "HV, has your master ever shown interest in anyone before? I'm trying to discern why she stayed for me, let alone brought me onto her vessel."

If it weren't for the fact Void had apparently watched over her for hours, she might have suspected a trap, but that just didn't seem to fit the Darth. No, she...had an approachable to her, and she wasn't exactly good at being subtle. Standing in the kitchen, Mal realized that she hadn't a clue of what she wanted to eat. In fact she didn't feel all the hungry. Crossing her arms, Mal kept herself concealed behind the jaw plate that so effectively terrified her underlings, but now even in her suit and armor she still felt a degree of vulnerability. "HV, if you don't mind, I just...want to know more about your master. I won't be needing...nutrition." The words lacked the sternness that she often carried, as once more, the Darth snapped off the plate, knowing it did little to help her now. She wondered what would become of Void once this mission was down, her loose ends cut, enemies slain; would they slink off and never speak again? The idea of that didn't set well for the Darth, and she frankly couldn't understand why. Her thoughts slowly melted into images of Void, wondering what she looked like under the armor, to see her laid bare, and Mal quickly stopped that line of thought before she dared allow it to go any further.

Moving towards a counter top, Mal leaned against it, as she looked to the droid, and glanced to make sure Void hadn't secretly snuck up to ease drop; though if the Darth truly desired that, Mal had no way to prevent her from doing so. "I just want to know about Void. She seems to know more about me than I of her. I don't reckon you can tell me about her?" Mal winced as she realized her Dantooine slang slipped out, the Dark Lady sounding like some backwater privateer now, though she reigned it back in before that ball kept rolling. Despite her best intentions, Mal's armor was down for now, as she was rather occupied in learning more about her mysterious host; perhaps knowledge would sate her appetite, she needed to get the image of that woman out of her head. "I don't aim to harm her. Just understand. " Yes, understanding. That's all this was about. Mal had encountered an unknown, and once that unknown was known everything would be fine.

Darth Void

 

[Darth Void]

"DuCray!" called out a voice in the fog of the dromand kaas jungle, the voice belonging to a young woman in her late 20s dressed in dark robes of an inquisitor. Blonde hair pulled back in a ponytail, her steel blue eyes searched the trees for any sign of her companion. Continuing down the path, she let out a sigh of exasperation when she reached the river and let her guard down for a moment. Two arms quickly snaked around her waist emitting a gasp from the woman. "Don't scare me like that!" she playfully turned, smacking the side of DuCray's arm. With a boyish grin, DuCray leaned down and nuzzled her neck "Sorry." she murmured. "I could barely get away. Training with Master Feran has been rather difficult." she too was dressed in similar black robes. The other woman closed her eyes blissfully leaning her head back as she whispered "And then you will be able to stop all this fighting and work in the council.." DuCray froze in her motions and pulled back. "You and I both know that it's not that simple... I am to initiate my final step. No matter the cost.. Sera, the Jedi Order have kidnapped our acolytes. And I will get them back." a determined spark in her grey eyes, Sera reached up and touched the other womans face gently grazing her lips "I fear I will lose you too." her eyes began welling with unshed tears "You won't.. I promise.."

"Promise?"

"I promise.."

Promise..

Everything began to disappear around her and she was engulfed in darkness again.

Void woke with a start. Her heart pounding in her chest uncontrollably. Bringing a trembling hand to her face, she covered her eyes for a moment as she reigned in her emotions. In the end, Sera didn't lose her. It was Void who lost everything. Taking in a shaky breath, Void said up and regained her composure as best she could, running her hand once through her messy hair, she stepped out of her quarters, how long has it been? Wondered the Sith as she looked around the empty bridge. Her attention turned to the Navicomputer at the very front of the ship that oversaw their trip. Her form silhouetted by the glowing navigational orb in the center. She stared out the windows before her into the stars as they passed by, finding some solace in the stargazing. A part of her found herself reaching into the force seeking out Malevolum's presence, stopping herself just as quickly, she shook her head. She couldn't entangle herself. This was not the time. They had to focus on the mission ahead. Malevolum would be free finally to do as she pleased. There was no reason for her to get involved with just a Jedi Hunter. Void sucked in a deep calming breath and refocused on the task at hand. They had a few more hours left before reaching Raxus Prime.

Meanwhile in the kitchen..

HV started searching through the cabinets "So, she never has anyone else on board?" the droid didn't stop, pots and pans clanging together as it sought out what it was looking for "Affirmative, my Lord has had to extinguish many spies during our travels." it answered.

"HV, has your master ever shown interest in anyone before? I'm trying to discern why she stayed for me, let alone brought me onto her vessel." The droid stopped its motions and turned to look at the Darth. "Not since she has started her hunt, my Lord. Her dedication to eradicate Jedi Masters has been her primary mission. I do not have the programmed answer to why she had stayed longer however. Perhaps to assist in Jedi hunting?" the droid resumed to move around in the kitchen only to stop when Malevolum stopped him "HV, if you don't mind, I just...want to know more about your master. I won't be needing...nutrition." HV placed the pan down and turned to look at the Darth once again "I just want to know about Void. She seems to know more about me than I of her. I don't reckon you can tell me about her?" the droid observed her for a moment and it as if Malevolum understood when she followed up with "I don't aim to harm her. Just understand. "

"My systems are only programmed with assisting Lord Void in her journey. My former Master and I were brought on board to provide medical treatment for Lord Void during her time in training as Darth. It came with a cost. Master Sera perished in the explosion. And Lord Void was placed in a bacta tank to heal for several years. When she awoke, she had become Void. Relinquishing her primary role in the Empire as a Shadow Assassin. That is all my programming will allow to answer Lord Malevolum. My apologies." The droid held up a kettle "Perhaps my Lord would like some tea?" offered the droid.

Darth Malevolum

 

[Darth Malevolum]

It seemed she had reached an impasse with the droid here, it had nothing more to offer her, but whatever happened on Jaemus seemed to be critical in forming her fellow Darth. Was Jaemus to Void like Onderon to Mal? The Darth could only speculate. This Sera though, perhaps she was a missing link to know more about the Darth. She nearly asked, but felt a tinge of change in the air, like someone had begun to shut a window and stopped. Perhaps it was nothing, and it could very have just been the air filters on the ship recycling themselves. Still holding that look of contemplation, Mal found herself only growing more curious about her fellow Darth rather than losing interest. "Several years in a bacta tank? She got very lucky with the healing then, I hardly can tell that there was any lasting damage to her body." Once again, her mind threatened to go down a rabbit hole, but Mal steeled herself against the temptation. Had they both been through the same tragedies, the destruction of their past lives and turning themselves into something new entirely? Why did Mal even care? Everyone who was a part of the Sith had lost something in one facet or another, why did the life of one Darth matter? Truth be told, she found herself unable to answer that question. Deep down, perhaps Mal sought some connection with another, even though she knew it was foolish and weak of her to desire.

Seeing that the droid had no more to offer the Darth, Mal let out a small sigh. "You need not ask for forgiveness HV, you are only doing your job." Truth be told, she found this droid less irritating than the previous droid models she had encountered. Alana and Ines had a rather troublesome model years ago, she had been tempted to keep it just for the sake of the memories, but Mal had seen to its' removal. She stared at the kettle of the droid, not entirely feeling in the mood, but she did need to put her mind at ease. "Yes. Tea would be nice." She remarked, moving to the other side of the room. Keeping her arms folded, gaze down to the floor, the Darth wondered just what sort of woman this Sera individual was. Hopefully the droid would be more forthcoming in that series of questions, as she redirected her gaze to HV and launched another torrent of questions at him. "Who was this Master Sera you speak of? Was she the Master of Void?" She began, wondering if the droid was programmed to not answer such questions. It would make sense after all, why have a servant droid who would spill information to anyone who asked. Then again, why had Void let her on at all if that was the case? The more she thought about it, the more confused it made her. HV's explanation of jedi hunting didn't even line up, because Void had let her onto the ship before such a fact had been brought up. The only explanation in Mal's mind that made sense, was that there was a personal motive at work, but why? That was something she couldn't understand. Mal would now wait patiently for the droids response, as well as the tea that she didn't particularly want. She needed to harden herself for the time to come, the last few hours had seen her drop her defense to a level she wouldn't dare keep it to around fellow Darths. If she hadn't known better, she would have thought that Void was trying to influence her mind, but given the vulnerability they had both shown one another, that seemed highly unlikely. If she was going to assign blame to anyone, it would be herself. She'd allowed this weakness to find it's place and put these seeds within her. This happened now and again, and each and every time Mal had overcome. She would do the same here....once she had sated her curiosity over this Darth she was working with.

Darth Void

 

[Darth Void]

HV complied with Malevolum's permission for tea. The kettle screeched when the water was hot enough, "Who was this Master Sera you speak of? Was she the Master of Void?" the droid delicately began to pour a mug for the Darth filled with calming tea leaves "That information has been removed from my programming Lord Malevolum." stated the droid. It was true, when the events of Jaemus occurred. The droids memory core had been programmed to no divulge further information on the Darth for protection of the Sith. "But my master does take on duties to assist Darth Lords such as yourself in the capture and extermination of Jedi should services be requested." it was true, HV was present when Mal had asked Void for her help, so it was no surprise that Void would assist. A mission for the Dark side was always part of their code in order to remain their presence over the Order. Even if it meant assisting other Sith who they do not either fully know or trust. As long as the Sith Empire remained standing.

HV offered the tea to Mal "This tea will help with what organics like to call 'mentally preparing'." indicating that the tea leaves had calming properties in it to settle the mind. "Lord Void is on the bridge according to heat signatures shall you need to find her." stated the droid with a single bow respectfully. "Will there be anything else you require of me?"

Back on the bridge, Void could be seen standing now in her repaired armor. Gloved hands running over the keys to lock on to an extraction site near the temple. Doing this would ensure success of their departure of the planet and HV would only have to navigate and extract them.. And provide medical treatment should it be needed. Which was always a possibility. It was always the case, Void would arrive on the ship in some form of damage from her battles with Jedi and the Republic. It was a miracle she survived as long as she did with such a hazardous undertaking she would risk constantly. But it wasn't just her own well being she had to account for now, she had Mal who she needed to make sure would return safely. This wasn't just her mission, it was a personal one for Mal. And Void intended to succeed. Whatever the cost. Her hands stopped and hovered over the controls for a moment as she thought back to the other Sith. She couldn't understand herself why she was so drawn to the other woman. Was it an attraction? Or was Void just playing a deadly game with someone who might kill her once her mission was completed? What was the other Sith feeling? The uncertainty felt like a cold blanket around her chest. But she couldn't help it as her mind went back to that smile the other woman gave her without the jaw plate on. She recalled the moment when she had stepped aside for her to pass, Void had moved past her, their shoulders just centimeters from touching, so close but still distant. She was deadly and beautiful and she knew it. Was she playing her? Only time would tell.

Darth Malevolum

 

[Darth Malevolum]

It seemed that she had been thwarted her again in her efforts. "Oh, I see." She spoke, taking the hot tea and sipping it. She was left to mull over this feeling that crept over her, almost ignoring the existence of the droid until he mentioned where his master would be. "No, I'm fine HV. Thank you." As the droid left, Mal leaned over the counter, slowly draining the cup dry, as it sadly didn't do anything to calm her mind. It seemed all there was to do was go and speak with Void now, something she wasn't ready to do just yet. She needed to get head back on straight, letting this thoughts of Void block up her mind was going to get her killed. Staring at the bottom of the cup, she turned her thoughts towards Ordin, and let that anger build. It would be felt by Void, something Mal didn't even try to hide. She was only half successful however, as a concern came to her mind. Ordin knew her, knew about Alana, what if that knowledge came out during a fight? She would just have to kill him quickly, stop him from talking before he could dig at her any further. He was just a mad old man, senile as they came. She could feel it coming back now, the hate, the rage.

She was only a child then, staring at the remnants of her home. She had felt righteous fury back then, something he had chastised her for severely. Her parents had died, and instead of comfort he brought down only shame upon her. 'Things die, life decays. This is how things are. Best grow used to it.' He had told her that while she buried her parents at the age of sixteen, and he wondered why she had turned on him. Idiot. She wanted vengeance, she wanted justice, but because she sought to be a good little padawan she had let it slip past her; only in her later years would she realize how he had wronged her. When Ines had died, all he had offered were empty words and a hallow plea that she return to the order; how could she ever refuse such a kind offer? Her eyes tightened, her grip clamped down, and it was only when the breaking of the cup in her hand was heard that Mal realized she had lost her temper. Ops. She stepped back, letting the broken glass clatter to the counter top, as her hand trembled for only a moment; then she pulled it in, and pressed it down, drinking the power that came from it. She felt more prepared, more ready now than she had been before. Her hand went for her jaw-plate, prepared to reattach it, then halted before it could connect. What was the point of wearing this thing here and now? Void knew who she was under the mask now, and nothing she did would change that. She sighed, gripping the piece of metal in her hands as she stood there in contemplation, before sliding it back on. What did it matter if Void knew? This was who she was. Locking the jaw-plate into place, she would move to the cockpit, and saw Void standing at the controls. She stood there, frozen in indecisiveness, before speaking. "Your droid is amusing." She remarked, her eyes lingering on the Darth, her mind going numb. "I want to make sure we are clear. I'm only after the jedi. If you are concerned that I'll betray you once this work is done, you need not concern yourself." She gripped her hands together, folding them in-front of her. "I've always found that sort of behavior unbecoming of Sith. Turning on our own should be discouraged at all turns. If you don't believe my words, that's fine, but I will not seek to exploit you in a vulnerable position. Also, you've saved my life, so you're certainly on my good side." The edges of her lips threatened to curve into a smile, but she managed to stay strong. "How was your nap?" Mal asked, curious how Void would respond, though she kept her eyes locked onto the Darth, unable to pull away.


Darth Void

 

[Darth Void]

The rage and pain permeated the force like a heaviness Void felt all too familiar with. She had been preoccupied with providing statistical data on their success rate, and the feeling pulsed through her like a heartbeat. "Mal.." she breathed the name out softly feeling her ache as she raised her head from the controls closing her eyes. The other womans memories plagued her the same way Void's did. The Sith felt it down to her very core. The pain of loss of... family and... someone? How many Sith have lost the people they loved most triggering their power? Mal and Void were just some of those unfortunately.

Opening her eyes, she could feel Mal standing behind her almost hesitant. She had reigned the hatred in and was to use it as her fuel for focus, something all Sith did. "Your droid is amusing." she heard her say "HV definitely has his moments." she replied, her attention turned back to the terminal as she ran the numbers, finally targeting their extraction site trying to focus from feeling Mal's eyes on her. "I want to make sure we are clear. I'm only after the jedi. If you are concerned that I'll betray you once this work is done, you need not concern yourself." Void turned and looked at her, her own eyes darker than usual from the vestiges of her dreams. She had watched as Mal folded her hands in front of her. She was wearing her jaw-plate again, observed Void. Back to business as usual for the Darth. "I've always found that sort of behavior unbecoming of Sith. Turning on our own should be discouraged at all turns. If you don't believe my words, that's fine, but I will not seek to exploit you in a vulnerable position. Also, you've saved my life, so you're certainly on my good side." Void turned her gaze back to the sight ahead of them. The planet was in the distance and nearing closer. Her jaw clenched several times "Good.. because whatever is waiting for us down there. Is going to have a rude awakening." there was a razor sharp focus etched in her features as she moved from the controls towards the front of the ship.

"How was your nap?" she didn't expect Mal to ask her such a question. Void briefly glanced at her for a moment before turning back to the sight before her. She shrugged in response and crossed her arms over her chest exhaling softly letting the remnants of the dream leave her thoughts "Do you still dream Mal..?" she couldn't help but ask.

A beeping interrupted them at the console. "Lord Void, Lord Malevolum. We have arrived to Raxus Prime." stated HV from the overhead intercom. "Thanks, HV. Prepare for descent." she looked up as she spoke, her eyes landed on the ominous stained planet before them. It was now or never. No looking back. Unfolding her arms, Void locked eyes with Malevolum "It's time." whatever was going on between the two of them was apparent and eventually needed to be addressed sometime, however the mission was to come first. And they were on the same page thankfully.

Darth Malevolum

 

[Darth Malevolum]

She was business as usual, or she was at least trying to be. The look of Voids eyes was all too familiar for Mal. She had those eyes at times as well, when the ghosts of a past life came to haunt you. There was a certain look to those eyes, a sense, a question buried beneath that screamed out for an answer; why? She seemed to be keeping herself busy, perhaps trying to take her mind off of whatever had tormented her; Mal did the same thing, typically taking her saber apart and rebuilding it over again worked for her. She felt sympathy for the Darth, it seemed they had more in common than either of them knew. The comment about giving the target below them a rude awakening stirred at the pool of rage she kept boiling within her, but she didn't move her gaze from Void. A part of her wanted to see this one again, though her reasons were entirely selfish. Perhaps she wanted to just bleed off the pain she felt under the armor, the sort that her suit was unable to hedge out. "I would want nothing less."

Void didn't answer her question, which was fair, after all, with the look she currently wore, Mal wouldn't blame her for wishing to avoid the topic. "Do you still dream Mal..?" The question caused a noticeable twitch from the Darth, as her armor had been penetrated once more. She broke her gaze at Void, her eyes traveling downward as she knew all to well how dreams had turned into torture for her. Waking up to thinking life was as it should have been, being on the cusp of delving into the moment, only to find that it was all in her head. It was maddening. She looked back to Void, answer prepared, as she once again seemingly found another topic for them to discuss. She wanted to answer what Void had asked her, but the system interrupted them before she could muster an answer. She gave paused, her hands clenching by her sides as it seemed that the time to dish out retribution was at hand. She found herself wanting to say several more things, but stopped herself. This wasn't the time for that. Ordin was the focus, and until he was dead, there was no point in splitting her attention. "It's funny. He always said I'd be the death of him. I don't think he ever intended for it to be literal." She mused, as she would watch with Void was the world of Raxus Prime drew nearer and nearer. She desired to take his lightsaber for her own, there was a very special place on her Destroyer that she desired to place it.

Darth Void