Faction Recovery and Reward

[Lirka Ka]

Tags: Open

It seemed her fun had been cut short, for now. Given time she knew the opportunity would present itself again, there were plenty more festivities to partake in.

"Perhaps one day I shall let you see the function of my Second Skin in full, my dearest savior."

As he left her, Lirka felt plenty chuffed to get her one last jab in. It was closer to a threat than an invitation, didn't take a genius to figure out what the functions of her Powersuit truly were. Giving Trayze Tesar an exaggerated bow of faux-politeness she let the man leave her clutches. Though, eyes still trained on him as he approached Darth Malum of House Marr

So many familiar faces to be seen, and that of the Sithling's face brought a stark reminder of just how long it had been since Lirka mingled with the masses. When they had last met, he had been but a boy. Now? Well, if the time come and they did meet again: she'd have to be on best behavior. Oh the unfortunate changing of the times...

Letting herself drift back into the masses, Lirka let her eyes wander for whoever would seem most interesting. Though, while Lirka general nuisance-like tendencies drew her in her in like a moth to her equals. Her obsession with power commanded her attention when dealing with her betters. It did not take long for her eyes to take their gaze up. To Darth Carnifex the beacon of evil who commanded Lirka's infatuations, he who had kept Lirka enthralled in the holdings of the Sith.

It had been long since she last spoke with her Liege in the flesh, very long. For a moment, ever so briefly, she considered scuttling her way through this vessel and making way to his side, to implore his wisdom in her quest to be free of this wretched void-of-the-Force she found herself trapped in. But as quickly as the thought came, she pushed it aside. She was but another of the menagerie of minions at his beck and call, and a minion came only when they were called.

So, she watched, and she pondered. What schemes was her One-True-Emperor plotting? And where did Lirka fit into it all?

 

[Darth Malum of House Marr]

The tapping of his fingers against the wall ceased as he felt familiar eyes on him, red eyes of the same frame and make, red eyes that represented the one staring at him, and fast approaching was one who was kin with him. That was if the burning amulet around his neck, was not enough indication of the closeness of this particular query.

He had seen Trayze at many a event across the galaxy, from here all the way to Bastion, but each time, they had not conversed, not spoken... it had been a long time since Saijo, a long time indeed. Much had happened since the days when they were both apprentices, so much indeed... not all of it good.

Really, if he really thought about it, most of it was Bogan awful.

Part of it was that... he had lost contact with his brother. Oh yes, he was his cousin, a distant one at that, but one that had accepted his foolish young mad dash to Dromund Kaas, when the world was still ruled by the Ashlan Crusade. The one that accepted coming with him to Korriban to find the holocron, when all others had turned back. The one that had joined him to duel the Sword and Shield of the Jedi without question or hesistation.

There was a gap between them, there always had been in some regards, but it was growing to others now, wider, deeper, but...

...He was still his blood.

And when he had heard of what had happened at Susevfi, read the reports...

He stepped off the wall with the force to have cracked it, as the wind bustled around him, and in an instant, his arms were wrapping themselves around his shoulders, and pulling him close. Damn decorum, damn etiquette, in this moment, he simply wished to... feel.

Feel his brother's heartbeat.

"...You idiot, who told you to go off rescuing Princesses without me?" He whispered, as the mask, stilled, as the eyes contained within them, closed themselves off from the world, and he simply basked in this moment.

Trayze Tesar
Mentioned: Quinn Varanin Valery Noble Kahlil Noble

 

[Tamsin Graves]

​

Theme: I'm a God
Outfit: {X}
Tags: Kaila Irons

After leaving susevfi, seeing and feeling fall the destruction of city. She had felt so lost and alone at that moment, then the ship had left the planet, and she blacked out. She dwelled on what happened in the weeks she was missing; she couldn't remember anything. It wasn't that she didn't know what had happened exactly, she knew the demon had taken full control in that time. It was the longest period, yet it had taken control of her, it was getting stronger.

It wasn't just that though, it had let into its goading on Susevfi. It had made her feel so empty, alone like nothing, even in the eyes of the one person she truly cared about. She felt guilty for letting into it, letting it get at her like that. Guilty for in that moment on Susevfi, she didn't care not even for Kaila Irons .

She wanted to tell her master everything but the guilt in her told her masters problems were bigger than her own. It stemmed from her life as a slave, where her issues did not matter. So, she put on a smile and walked into the ceremony telling herself this was Kaila's moment to stand proud and get the accolades she rightfully deserved. Told herself tonight she would put the dark thoughts swirling in her mind on the back burner for the only person that mattered to her.

The demon slept; she could feel it as she walked into the converted hangar bay which meant for at least the night she would have peace from it trying to poison her thoughts. She put on a fake smile, but it was passing enough. Her dark eyes tried to marvel at how the hangar was converted, extravagant, the Jutrand royals knew how to decorate. Every party she had been to since she knew Kaila showed her the life, she never thought she would see outside her dreams.

She watched all the people in their little circles of people talking about whatever was on their minds. People laughing and smiling among there friends, some conversations a little more serious though about the fate of Susevfi or other political stuff going on. Truth be told outside of the little bit she did for Kaila on Echnos she understood nothing about politics. Somedays she wondered how much of it her master truly understood and if she even liked it.

She walked past the people in their little groups she wondered if any of them even knew who she was. They probably just thought she was that girl who followed the Governor of Echnos around. She had to stop letting those dark thoughts drag herself down, she mentally told herself, as she looked for a place to sit down.

As she looked around though her eyes spotted Kaila walking through the crowd. She saw that new dress of Kaila's damn she thought, it caused Tamsin to look at the people in the crowd as she counted the heads that turned. Her sister was striking, it gave off a sense of power but also showed her beauty. She kept up her smile as Kaila approached her if Tamsin hadn't known her, she would be partly terrified right now by the vibes her master was giving off in this dress.

"I almost forgot, you don't always wear armor. Who did you get so dressed up for?" Tamsin already had an idea who it was, but Kaila hadn't yet told her. It was pretty obvious by what the Demon had showed her and Kaila's own body language. Though Tamsin wouldn't say anything unless her sister told her directly. "Darth Anathemous you got some rizz." She had no idea what that word meant but she had heard kids at the Korriban academy use it and it seemed to mean something good and worth having.

 

[Rieka]

Equipment | In Bio

Location | Party, yippee

Tag | Open

There was little that could escape the snout of the rather large monster. And the savoury smells coming from the party only served to lure and drag her closer, the job given was to guard the party.. And to remain far away from it.

But how could she? Sitting around for so long had made the monster lick her lips more and more, taking in the smells....

The boss didn't seem to be around, most likely off flaming some trooper for falling asleep during watch.

It didn't take long for Rieka to peek her large nose into the converted hanger.. She had tried at first to reach her long and rather obvious arm into the room, clawing at the cooked meats sorted upon the table.

"Kriffing.. Almost.."

She huffs to herself, no doubt her not so sneaky antics being seen by many... For if you did not see the large beastly arm trying to reach through the door for food... You needed your eyes checked.

After some time she just reaches her arm around to open a larger door meant for cargo to go in and out, abandoning her 'stealth' mission in order to just go take a seat next to the food table.

Ravenously, she pushes away any plates with a claw before taking what she now considered hers, with almost all the meat from that table gone in a flash.

 

[Noctis]

MORS MON – HANGAR BAY – VARANIN'S SHADOW
Quinn Varanin | Rieka

The tragedy of Susevfi could not—would not—occur again. Not under his watch nor the watchful eyes of those appointed to protect the Princess ( Quinn Varanin ). Each appointed and tasked by Empress Talon to keep an close eyes on the princess following the events on Susevfi. The Sentinel himself hidden as a shadow amongst the princess's various shadows tailing and observing her every move as well as those whom she interacted with.

Like the guard who handed the princess a handkerchief. The helmet's hud and sensors scanning the small gift for a moment as the Princess's Shadow remained hidden and out of the way. No need to intervene here, but the interaction would be noted for the future. Someone behaving so friendly with the princess, no matter previous ties, did not elicit anything warm. Only a cold suspicion as eyes narrowed under the helm.

That coldness grew with the lies spoken in an attempt to soothe the princess were. All for naught. There had been ripples, consequences, due to the events that occurred on Susevfi. The princess and her allies were more vulnerable now than ever as ironic as that may have been. There was unrest amongst the Sith. The Sentinel could hear it through his helmet's sensors, if not his own ears. The Mors Mon provided an additional veil of secrecy, a cloak for him to remain underneath and unnoticed. The entire ship permeated in the dark side, choking out all light.

The Sentinel's presence invisible. No telling him apart from anyone or anything else aboard this ship.

When Princess Varanin stepped off the stage and approached Lord Alina Tremiru , the Sentinel did not move in sync. As Varanin's shadow, he was already there—out of sight and out of mind—before the princess had counted her last step towards Lord Tremiru. Ever so briefly, the Sentinel's gaze stretched out beyond this one conversation towards dozens of conversations—all happening at once.

The one who spoke of wasted resources and ignorance ( Credius Nargath ).

The one who spoke of hollow causes ( Darth Imperius ).

And, finally, the one who spoke of excess and weakness ( Darth Callidus ).

The helm served a purpose beyond the adequate protection it served from both harm and identificaiton. Each had been heard and each would be remembered. Perhaps, it would serve each of them best to keep their words hidden behind closed doors. But it was not his job to scare off others from speaking hearsay. No, much could be learned from the shared rumors and dissension. It helped him take note of potential threats.

And if he should stay his hand in the future or be all the more quicker to cut down the weeds masquerading as flowers with thorns.

His gaze stretched and curved away from them. Towards the messenger ( Darth Meritum ). A brief look to observe the old man. Old meant long-lived, especially in a profession where many died young. There was no malice behind the brief observation. Only a note of his presence that had otherwise gone unnoticed. It was not the Sentinel's business to ruin that current anonymity the messenger enjoyed.

No, the Sentinel's concern stretched to the eyes watching the Princess Varanin as she spoke with Lord Tremiru. Two sets of eyes watching. One such gaze already looking away with a sigh ( Kaila Irons ). The other . . . too busy inside his own mind ( Darth Malum of House Marr ). Something the Sentinel would spare no effort nor time to peeling back the layers of. Instead, his focus turned upwards.

There had been something wrong with the shadows. Not the first time the Sentinel had an individual use such tactics to gain the advantage over him. The issue stemmed the notion that even the Sith Lord Darth Carnifex thought himself invisible to all eyes as he committed this invasion into the shadows. The Sentinel's gaze hardened as he stared upwards. This was a potential threat, greater than the whisperings and machinations between Sith present. Information was power. The power to kill without lifting a single finger.

It was all the more reason why the Sentinel never spoke unless he knew for certain it was time to speak. Nor would he speak at this gathering, not with eyes and ears present. As the gaze of his shadow receded and his attention once more focused on the princess and her company, the Sentinel decided to make himself far more . . . present in this event. After all, these events were about connections.

Perhaps, he should try to make a connection himself. The Sentinel's hand gently reached out towards a plate of meat before grabbing ahold and lifting it steadily into the air as he walked. His helm and cloak masking him as one of many Sith here. Helmets, helms, and cloaks made one almost invisible, perhaps more so than if one wore the standard uniform.

The Sentinel set down the plate of meat before the carnivorous creature he had spotted earlier before sliding it closer to the beast. The Sentinel's head tilted slightly to the side, a half an inch at most as it observed the creature ( Rieka ) in a muted curiosity. As if to say:

Greetings.

Before stepping a few paces away to recline back and away into the shadows, outside the periphery of the congregation assembled.

Focused once more on Varanin.

 

[Kaila Irons]

Wearing: New Dress
Tag: Tamsin Graves | Open

"Tamsin." Kaila greeted her apprentice with a faint yet warm smile as she approached.

It felt good to feel their mysterious bond again after so long, and in such close proximity too. For her part, Tamsin seemed similarly well dressed for the occasion, and it was good to see her dressed for something besides work, hypocritical as the notion may be.

"I almost forgot, you don't always wear armor. Who did you get so dressed up for?"

"Seems we've both forgotten." she chuckled nervously.

Give the crowd a quick glance, the ever paranoid young Darth caught a masked visage( Noctis ) turn her way but briefly, however, given the loud nature of the crowd, assumed her whispering would go unheard so long as she leaned close enough. After all, it was not uncommon to speak so privately with one's own apprentice even on such an elegant occasion.

"It may or may not have something to do with the princess." she whispered with a knowing smile.

"Darth Anathemous you got some rizz."

To this however her lips pursed in thought, unsure just what it was she was about to say whilst leading the pair towards the table for a drink, let alone whatever strange language Tamsin was speaking.

"Tell me, my apprentice, what is a rizz...?" she hummed curiously.

"Is that a... a code word? we are being watched."

​

 

[Rieka]

Equipment | In Bio

Location | Party

Tag | Noctis /open

She tilts her head from one side to the other, gazing at the food that was gifted.. A nice gesture to be sure, yet it was nothing more than a tiny treat to a creature of her size.

Being careful as to not damage the plate, she scoops it into her hand, letting the slabs of meat fall down into her mouth.

A large black claw would gently poke the shadow's back, Rieka giving a large toothy grin as the plate was set back down.

"E'LLO E'LLO!"

She lets out a slight wheezy chuckle after greeting the man, the beast licking her lips while what could be assumed looking at him... Hard to tell with the cloth over her eyes.

"MORE?"

Rieka keeps her smile, considering herself to be very polite within this moment.

 

[Quinn Varanin]

//: Open //:
//: Alina Tremiru //:
//: Mors Mon //:
//: Attire //:

Quinn nervously laughed. She figured Alina wasn't trying to joke, or maybe she was? Her mind worked over the hidden meanings between the words that Alina spoke. Perhaps she was overthinking, and her nerves were getting the best of her. Quinn had wanted to speak to the Sangnir, but their time apart was something the Princess didn't enjoy. However, it was something she'd have to accept. The urge to reach out and run her fingers against the woman's arm to comfort herself and maybe Alina.

"Yeah, I was pretty lucky; I was told there was a Dathomirian witch ( Astrid pentoghast ) that put me back together," She paused, "my mother brought me back." Her voice quieted as she finished; Quinn was unaware of the feelings of people hearing the words that had kept the young woman clinging to life. From the corner of her eye, she noticed Kaila Irons had arrived wearing the dress she had picked out. A small smile pulled at the corner of her lip as her gaze left the woman and looked back to Alina. "I heard you were there too; thank you for being there. Knowing that you had been fighting…" She stopped, fearing that if she said 'for me,' Alina may deny it. The thought was painful.

"Also, glad you're all in one piece." Quinn knew the woman would be safe, even in some of the most dangerous situations. The only part that worried her was that if something terrible happened, that brought her to the brink of death. Alina would no longer have her to help. "If you ever need anything, Alina, I'm always here for you; please don't hesitate to reach out to me." Quinn sighed happily.

As the rest of the party began to fill, Quinn picked up on the subtle feeling of the Ravenlord ( Darth Malum of House Marr ) drawing closer. She was surprised he had shown up; the man worked in mysterious ways, but Quinn was happy to see him. Hopefully, she would be able to catch his attention, even for a brief moment. Out of everyone, he was the only one that she hadn't thanked.

Quinn paused her thoughts. She suddenly felt someone had recently joined her payroll. Her safety had become this shadow's ( Noctis ) issue, and she hoped she wasn't too much of a burden to them.

 

[Tamsin Graves]

​

Theme: I'm a God
Outfit: {X}
Tags: Kaila Irons

"Seems we've both forgotten."

"Fair, point." She remarked as Kaila leaned in whispering revealing her badly kept secret. It brought a genuine smile to Tamsin that it had finally been revealed to her. She understood the nature of keeping it quiet and not yell it out to all the masses. She even saw her master's bit of paranoia about it yet also felt Kaila gushing. Tamsin loved seeing her sister happy, like the day on Canto Bight when she started her training. Kaila seemed so happy then even when talking about the darker aspects of her life to Tamsin. She was serious then but also happy and proud she finally had someone she could speak to.

Tamsin glanced quickly in the direction of Quinn Varanin , but didn't linger too long. She had seen the Princess before on the holo, in passing at certain events, and in the vision the demon showed her on Susevfi. She wanted to tell Kaila to be careful, someone of such high standing could surely get them in chit if things went south. Though she knew her sister wouldn't listen, never did when it came to her love interests. Even if Tamsin did out of love and for both their self-preservation. "She is beautiful." Was all she replied.

In truth she was kind of jealous of her master in that respect, not necessarily with the love interest that always seemed to circle her. The fact she could so easily find allies and friends, even after burning bridges in the most spectacular of fashions. Kaila was loved and beloved, yet Tamsin had noted she didn't always realize it. Her master sometimes still thought she was that slave that had been battered and abused by her master, and no one saw her. She didn't see how far she had really come in this sith world, making a name for herself all by herself. To think not long ago Kaila wanted to leave it behind and didn't think she fit the mold.

"Tell me, my apprentice, what is a rizz...?"

"Uh…." The question caught her off guard for a moment and she really didn't know at all what it meant. "I think…."

"Is that a... a code word? we are being watched."

"No….Well I mean we are always being watched, that was one of the first things you taught me." She eyed Kaila suspiciously, when in a room full of sith always assume you are being watched for signs of weakness or ways to be exploited. "But no, I think the word means…one who has a charm or charisma. I heard it at the academy, Kids would say things like Bet I can totes rizz up that bougie bae, fam she be bussin." Okay she heard the term a total of one time, but it got stuck in her head and it wouldn't leave. Along with a bunch of other teenage brain rot, in truth she had learned more listening to other students' conversations than she had in class. "I don't think they would be good code words." She said as a few people passing by gave her strange looks.

 

[Trayze Tesar]

CURRENT MISSION - Warhorse's Respite
Immediate Goals -
1: Stand there
1.1: Look Pretty
1.2: Stand there while looking pretty
1.3: Don't fall over while standing there and looking pretty.
2: Try not to cry (FAILED)
2.1: Catch up with kinsmen
2.2: Investigate the big fluffy stuffing their face with the cheese platter.

BLUFOR - Darth Malum of House Marr

OPFOR - Enemy Unknown

TARGETING ACTION(S) - Darth Malum of House Marr || Noctis || Rieka || OPEN FREQUENCY

---

A masked helm pressed against his chest, Trayze felt more and less. A hug, especially between kin, was sorely needed, but there was a lump in his throat... after all this time, why couldn't he see his face? But that will be for later, he exhales, returning the embrace with a set of gentle pats on the back, a noise from his throat halfway between a sigh and a chuckle.

"No such thing as a conveniently timed crisis, Malzy." he answered, making sure to keep the first part beneath his breath. It would be improper for someone as lowly as Trayze to address a member of the Dark Council by a diminutive nickname. "Besides, after Ah... passed out, you rescued me, Ah rescued the princess, swings an' roundabouts!" he reassured, breaking the hug slightly to continue placing his hand on Malum's back to comfort him, and guide him further into the fete. Despite the pressure placed upon the still-injured forearm, Malum could tell that the tears in his eyes were happy ones.

"Who knows? Maybe you're the guest of honor for this spontaneous shindig?" he continued to tease, giving the back of the helmet a flick. Maybe that was the reason why Malzy kept the darned thing - less for legacy, and more not to get his pretty face messed up.

"E'LLO E'LLO!"
​

The voice first startled the Kiffar, before looking up... scowling turned to curious confusion as he regarded the being that was hoarding the hors d'oeuvres - the refuge where he and his far-too-estranged cousin were to abide in to exchange long overdue conversation. Yet rather than be deterred, he was drawn further, though he allowed a snide aside to his cousin.
"Add t' yer list of reforms," he spoke in hushed sarcasm. "More realistic body standards. Not all of us have a nifty mask ta' hide our blushes behind."
Was it right to tease someone after nearly dying, and after such estrangement? Probably not. Did he enjoy it, and did it feel right? Yes on both accounts.
"Or shall we investigate this t'gether? Ah believe I'm overdue fer some harebrained adventures..."

 

[Darth Malum of House Marr]

There was an intimacy amongst family that he rarely held the opportunity to experience, that was the way which the House of Marr operated, that way in which all aristocratic and noble houses operated, all emotion, from joy to sadness was a weakness that could and would be exploited by jealous rivals. This gesture, then, this public show of affection and favour, was very much the very thing which his family had warned him against his entire life, those who saw, those with suspicious and curious eyes, could only see the son of the Queen of Shadows, the Dark Councillor, removing his metaphorical mask, revealing his weakness.

But...

...Malum simply could not find it within himself to care at this moment. He was the Lord of the Tsis'Kaar, he was an emperor of one world even if secretly, and king of another, and he was of course, a Dark Councillor.

If he could not embrace his cousin, that cousin who was closer to him to a brother than anyone else apart from maybe one other... one other who had taken his heart and crushed it, what was his power? What was the point of it?

He smiled into the feeling of Trayze's hand upon his back, never once doubting his embrace would be returned, but with so much that had happened... the spectre of doubt was difficult to defeat without undeniable evidence. Of course, said smile was quickly turned to a chortle, as he pulled himself away, masked eyes staring into ones that were so similar to his own.

"Malzy? Is that your new nickname for me? What am I meant to reply with, Trayzy?" It was impossible to ignore the tears fomenting by his opposite's eyes, he would do him the favour of not mentioning them, confident enough they were born of the very same emotions he felt now, or if anything else, the pain of an arm that had been injured only weeks ago.

After all, he still had a limp from Susevfi.

The chortles stopped, as the rest of his words struck him, parsing his lips, as the modicum of guilt pooled within his stomach again, "...Out of us both if anyone rescued Qu- the Princess, it was you," He grit his teeth again, as he remembered losing himself to his madness... but even then, calling it madness implied everything it was not... "I only made it to the arena after she was rescued, destroying the place hardly constituted an accomplishment." He ground on, as the mask tilted ever slightly to gaze at the ground, ashamed.

Only to raise it, as the mask was flicked, incredulously raising his eyes, to the smiling face of the Kiffar, "...If anything, you will be the guest of honour, I heard you were vital to saving Qu- the Princesses' life, for that... I owe you so much, cuz." So much, to think he was still an acolyte after all this time, after all he had accomplished.

...If there was one thing he could grant him...

He allowed himself a sly smile as Trayze japed next to him if there was one who made him feel so... humorously at ease, "Perhaps, but I believe the Princess owes me a dance, and I am tempted to have her repay that debt... but before that, have you found anyone to warm your bed beside your droid?" Malum teased back with the sly smile, becoming even more sly if such a thing was possible, "It is a celebration, cuz, why not find someone special... and if you are not adequately rewarded for your services, why don't I? Is it not finally time for you to become a Knight?"

Trayze Tesar
Mentioned: Quinn Varanin

 

[Srina Talon]

Location: Aboard the Mors Mon
Tag: [OPEN]

______________________________________​

The bridge of the Mors Mon was cold.

The pale woman sat at the command throne while the AI Typhojem fed her reports from the sector with a holographic head that remained bowed. There was much to be done. Part of accepting her place in this Empire was acknowledging that it never slept. It seethed. Whether it was from people that cried out to the heavens for their unjust occupation, perhaps, annihilation or throngs of Sith Lords coming together to collectively whine about not getting their way—It never ended.

Still.

She cared for the Sith of the Order as if they were lost ducklings, fat and fluffy, whilst they waddled behind greater powers and quacked the same tune. They were slow to learn.

Full of judgments, complaints, and narcissism.

But at the bare minimum…They did learn.

"The status of the Suarbi System?"

"Stable. Susevfi has changed hands many times, and with that in mind, the people found only oppression when our ships arrived. The 2nd Legion and Quinn Varanin tried a soft approach but given intelligence gained during the event it has become clear that the well was poisoned long before boots made landfall. The ashes of Yumfla smolder while the fires in many areas still burn deep underground."

Srina watched the holo-feed with an expression that was deadened, as if, she peered through the data from her own grave. There was an emptiness to her that gave the impression of a whispering ghost at work but the crew of the Mors Mon knew better. None would forget the way the diminutive woman became a thing of nightmares, with the Butcher King, Darth Carnifex , standing at her side. Who was she to command and make demands of the Twice-Crowned King?

She was nothing. No one.

And yet…Despite all—Command she did.

He allowed a woman of common birth, and common blood, to not only rule but make divisive actions that were then carried out without complaint or prejudice. Srina had always suspected the depth of power that Carnifex truly held, but now, she her suspicion had become certainty. She had touched the darkness that lived within and his power still laced her own. Still…Breathing through her.

He could have killed her. Crushed, her. Every time he refrained…It just made her stronger.

"Continue, Typhojem."

"Loss of infrastructure is still being calculated, but some buildings were left mostly intact. The castle is now operating at full capacity with martial law in effect. The surrounding villages and smaller cities are troubled by the events, but, the presence of droid personnel ensures the continuation of order. The people of the Quence sector… Will be angry. Fearful."

"They always are."

"The castle should be defensively armed."

"See that it is...I want no more surprises from this sector for a very long time."

"As you wish, Empress."

The Tsis'Kaar had been provided with mountains of data to evaluate so they could preemptively head off any further incursions. There were many angles to consider. Was it possible that it was just the remnants of Trade League sympathizers rallying the populace to insurrection? Certainly. It would explain the sheer volume of Force Nullification equipment, but it was a stone that would not be left unturned. Whether it was an isolated incident or a growing threat…Had yet to be determined.

They could not have love from the territory they gained through warfare and annexation, nor, could they expect loyalty. Since those things could not be had, obedience, through fear would have to do in the short term. It was not ideal, but a firm hand now spared millions later.

"Will you attend the party this evening? I believe that it would please Lady Varanin."

Srina glanced at Typhojem quizzically but didn't ask what was on the tip of her tongue right away. She had noticed an increase of visitors to the Mors Mon but it was so large that it often served as a mobile waystation for Sith that were passing through, reporting findings, or accepting new orders. It had slipped her mind that this was the time Quinn had chosen to thank those who had provided their services on Susevfi. It was rare that they were all gathered this way, in reflection, rather than violence on pain of death. "Show me."

Typhojem obeyed and the security strips that lined the dark metal walls of the monstrous super star destroyed pressed the feed from the gathering into translucent holo-screens. It only occupied one hangar but it seemed that the princess had taken purchase on her new life by decorating the hell out of it. Srina, could only shake her head, but an inestimably small smile lingered at the kiss of her mouth. One could take the Princess from the crown, but never, the crown from the Princess.

"They seem content."

"You are the highest authority on this ship in the absence of the Emperor…It would be wise to appear."

Srina frowned, slightly, but eventually gave in to the guidance. Typhojem was easy to work with because his information wasn't slated with human weakness. He might have sounded remarkably alive, but he was merely one of the cleverest of toasters that Darth Empyrean had ever designed. He was a compilation of data, made digestible, not afflicted by whim or fancy. Perfect, for her.

"Keep us on course."

Typhojem nodded while Srina pulled to her feet as if she were made of liquid, rather, than hampered by the constraints of traditional laws of physics. The long walk to the hangar was met with silence while her hands remained ever at her sides. She wore a plain traveling dress of black fabric that pulled behind her when she moved, unadorned, save for a ring of matrimony, a ring for battle, and the phylactery that had been forever entrusted to her by Darth Carnifex . Long white hair was partially braided but it would seem to have its own iridescent in the fluorescent lighting.

The doors to the hangar hissed before they opened…Leading her to take in an interesting scene.

She stood in the entryway for quite some time. Listening. Analyzing both intent and aptitude in the same glance. Some were in good spirits. Others had simply come as crows to pick and caw their way through the evening, with little, in the way of comprehension.

It was to be expected. Normal. Her name and deeds had lived in the mouths of Sith for so long that she had forgotten what it was like to keep her own counsel. To have silence.

How she longed for it.

"Is this enough?"

The question was directed at Typhojem, as she knew the AI was listening, but he was strangely silent. The bundle of intelligence knew the mountain of work she had to look forward to late into the night and possibly into the morn and her irritation with his lack of response was palpable. But…Srina knew the importance of small nods toward the work of those who helped carve the way for this Empire. For those who could put down their grievances, if temporarily, for the sake of necessity. The Echani simply wasn't the best ambassador for a gathering for any kind. She was cold, taciturn, and shrewd. The wintry woman drew a deep breath before sighing aloud…War was on the horizon.

It was best that their people took a moment when they could…Because soon enough there wouldn't be a second to spare. Soon enough, there would be more fighting. More death.

Her features smoothed to nothingness.

Then…She began to make her way into the hangar.

 

[Kaila Irons]

Wearing: New Dress
Tag: Tamsin Graves | Open
Mentioned: Darth Carnifex Quinn Varanin Alina Tremiru

"We are, that is true, but by who?" she hummed.

"Threat assessment and priority will become important to your training, even at these gatherings."

"...you know what we say about peace."

Perhaps it was cruel to remind her apprentice of such things during one of their few breaks from the fighting. It wasn't half as cruel as the measures her master had taken to teach her this, nor cruel as those who had used such occasions to their advantage in the past.

Kaila sighed softly as she approached the table, quickly pouring herself a glass of wine, even offering to pour one for her apprentice by way of gesture.

For just a moment, her gaze lifted steadily upwards until at last the source of her dread was found. High above them on the hangar catwalk stood the dark tower whose shadow she had lived in her entire adult life. Even in this lighting, those broad shoulders upon such a tall figure, and the faint but baleful red glow emanating from His shaded gaze, all pointed to one conclusion.

The dreaded cold which crept up her spine, was Darth Carnifex .

Sipping her wine, the Dathomiri-vahla's golden gaze took on a glow of their own, and she wondered for but a moment if their eyes had met or if it were a trick of the light.

She turned away slowly as Tamsin finished her explanation, choosing to focus on what little time they had.

"But no, I think the word means…one who has a charm or charisma. I heard it at the academy, Kids would say things like Bet I can totes rizz up that bougie bae, fam she be bussin."

And in a rare turn of events, it made the young Darth smile.

"What a fascinating dialect." she stifled a chuckle.

"Dantooinian, I should think. Or... a rare variant of high sith...? Perhaps they were practicing for a class."


Kaila was deep in thought, thumb to her chin as she tried to recall any instance of the mystery language, however as her thoughts began to wander, so did her eyes.

They widened ever so slightly at Quinn Varanin , recognizing that look. Suddenly her mission with Alina Tremiru made sense. Subtle as her expressions and her words had been, the mysterious sangnir's loss of control was abruptly put into context. Perhaps, if she were correct in her suspicions, they had once been more...?

The princess of Eshan had a taste for short-spoken blondes, it seemed.

Kaila nearly choked on her wine as she turned, trying to banish a series of most irrational thoughts. Quinn was unlike the others, she had to remind herself, someone she could trust with matters of the heart. Whatever was happening over there, even if it resulted in a dance she could not participate in, the young sith had to remind herself that it was merely for old times sake.

Besides, it reminded her of an opportunity she'd once missed.

"Tamsin," she cleared her throat as if nothing happened.

"Do you remember New Cov? I owe you a dance, If I recall."

 

[Darth Imperius]

Mors Mons I Hangar

• Objective: Sith Politics
• Tags:
  • Allied: Darth Callidus | Credius Nargath
  • Adversary: N/A
• Theme:

Darth Imperius found himself agreeing with Halcyon's assessment. The Sith Empire needed change and it had to swift, decisive and ruthless. No place for the likes of hesitation, forgiveness and conscience in a realm that should be based on the rather straight forward principles of the Sith Code. Peace is a lie. And while he did not deny or oppose the strength derived from emotions such as love, it was not the way of the Sith to openly embrace such. It was weakness. Not just any weakness, but it was ultimate leverage and a fatal, potentially lethal flaw.

"It is time the Empire evolves and ascends once more. Diplomatic, pragmatic alignments and pacts are necessary to keep everything together, but make it family, lovers and compassion, and it will drag us into the abyss."

"A lesson that needs to taught."

With that the dark steel clad figure clasped his hands on his back and started moving. He offered the two Sith a brief look, equalling what could be interpreted as a nod before moving his form towards around the ceremony. The black eyes wandering across the gathered, looking at any and all, taking in what he saw, memorising.

It was dance, joviality and revel, it was a warm, emotional embrace, emotions shared publicly and without hesitation. His expression did not yield any emotions, but he felt disappointment and rage. They were Sith, all of them, and they celebrated defeat. Did they not know it when they saw it? Were they shielded from such realities or just excessive in their decadence? Was there no will to dominate or did they just act as Dark siders and played Sith?

The Dark side corrupted. It had turned his originally dutiful ideals into abstract and brutal ones, that did not only accept the realities of nature but also of sentient mind. Paranoia and distrust were never avoided, could not, neither was the decay of the physical and mental. It was a matter of time and simple techniques could not preserve the ultimate end, it took a lifetime, or more, to postpone the end. But this? Laughter, friendship and closeness did not have a place in it.

Nor did he here. He turned to leave through the next bulkhead when it opened and he stood in front of Srina Talon . His eyes looked at hers for a moment, unyielding and unrelenting, soulless. Then he offered a very slight bow of his head.

"Darth Omnia."

Equipment
| Lightsaber | Greatsword | Armor | Amulet | Shuttle |​

 

[Tamsin Graves]

​

Theme: I'm a God
Outfit: {X}
Tags: Kaila Irons

"That it's a lie."

She answered as Kaila poured her a glass of wine and slid it towards her. She stared at the glass of wine for a moment as her master's sights wandered trying to spot the prying eyes. She picked up the glass with her left hand and swirled it around and then took a sniff of it, it had the slightest hint of alcohol to it. Tamsin knew what wine was and alcohol she had been around it all her life, but she had never really partook of it.

She then looked around to where her master was looking, and she noticed her sights first landing on Darth Carnifex . A giant looming shadow above everyone else, it was weird to her that such a man held so much power but the Demon in her did not fear him. It didn't seem to fear anyone or anything.

As her Kaila took a sip of her wine Tamsin mimicked it feeling the bubbles on her tongue were interesting it had a slight sweet taste to it. She kind of liked it.

"Dantooinian, I should think. Or... a rare variant of high sith...? Perhaps they were practicing for a class."

"Possibly?" She wasn't sure she knew what Dantooinian was but knowing Kaila it was probably something very old historical. "It doesn't really sound much like the sith language though. Maybe I am wrong, and it is a code language they developed?"

"This drink is good?" She said as she finished it off not realizing proper etiquette was to sip it. "Tastes like grapes." She exclaimed, as Kaila turned back to her after her eyes had lingered on the crowd long enough. Setting the empty glass on the table.

"Do you remember New Cov? I owe you a dance, If I recall."

Tamsin beamed as Kaila asked her to dance. "I remember!" Excitement in her voice at the thought of it. She almost wanted to ask what happened to the woman she left with to hang with that night but she could ask that some other time considering the demon seemed to know who the woman was and she wanted try and put those thoughts in the back of her mind for the night. "You need practice, don't you?" She remembered her master telling her that she was rusty then, now she had a princess to impress.

"Well, I warn you I have learned some new moves. I might show you up." With that she put out her hand towards Kaila. "I saw some kids at the korriban dance say this, May I have this dance Darth Anathemous?"

 

[Astrid pentoghast]

Tag: Darth Carnifex

As carnifex watched those below from one of the many gangways ripples could be seen forming in reality as Astrid strode through reality as it appeared without breaking it. The ripples like those in water quickly vanished as she stood there in nightsister robes her hair past her shoulders. As she walked up beside carnifex "a party for what happened at susevfi it doesn't feel appropriate" she said coldly it was a travesty no two ways about it loss of resources loss of men and a useful ship yard.

"We saved a princess but lost a world and all of its worth for however long it takes to rebuild it" she said carnifex could chew her out or try to kill her if she wanted but either way she spoke the truth and those below knew it carnifex probably knew it aswell. She awaited carnifexs response ready to teleport out of the way incase he responded violently but her outward appearance showed calm.

 

[Alina Tremiru]

Even as she listened to Quinn she couldn't help but notice the eyes. All watching the Princess. Either to protect her, perhaps, judge her more likely. Jealousy, for certain. Her eyes fell on Kaila Irons 's specifically as the girl looked their way. Silent and expressionless was the only sensation she gave. There wasn't a reason to press an issue here. Elsewhere she could hear Darth Malum of House Marr joking about taking his dance with Quinn now.

Alina simply stood in the way of all these people and what they wanted with the Princess, huh?

Her gaze fell back to Quinn, who'd only been looking at her. Speaking to her. "I did nothing, in truth. Hunted for the one behind all this that gave these rebels the means to subdue you of all people. Still following that trail, bit by bit. Someone who can teach the common folk how to subdue someone of your caliber is someone I'd like to meet and probably beat up."

Probably was an understatement. Her expression shifted though, tightened as she really looked at Quinn. Makeup and Bacta could only do so much to hide the wounds brought. She let out a heavy sigh. ".. If I need something, huh?" She muttered the words, seeming to mull over something. Then she reached out. Not suddenly, not aggressively. Just held out a hand as she smirked. Flashed her fangs.

"What I need right now is a dance." If people were going to stare, she'd give them a proper reason to be jealous. And really, she didn't want to think any more on the fact Quinn had died. She didn't want Quinn to think on that either. Dance, celebrate the fact they were alive. That's all that really mattered right now, right? Not the somber thoughts eating at the back of her mind.

Quinn Varanin

 

[Gerwald Lechner]

TAG: Srina Talon Darth Imperius

Shadows still moved in Susevfi. They were not the kind made of light and matter, but agents designed to find the one or ones responsible for stoking the deeper fires of rebellion which the people should not have had the spirit for. Gerwald had not been wrong about the condition of the former capital. He had not misjudged the people. Something else happened. While the Lord Commander had not expected Quinn's approach to succeed without some help, but there had been no intelligence to suggest such massive instability.

She had recovered. The Princess was well. Those who had been injured or extended themselves too far were on the mend. In the end the losses to the Sith were minimal, but the city which would have been used as a strategic outpost remained in ashes. It was far more destruction than what a raid would have produced.

This had been the price of learning opportunity for the Echani Princess.

"We have yet to find anyone responsible at a deeper level. Our intelligence should not have been wrong. Perhaps a force influence that we could not have accounted for."

"That would have required someone or someones to manipulate. Find out."

"As you wish, my lord."

The hologram dissipated as the Wolf pinched the bridge of his nose. His agents were not incompetent, nor were they fools. There was only one truly suited for this task. Oleander Webb . It was time to hand the investigation over to him.

A short missive was sent to his apprentice.

Susevfi requires your talents. Those held for questioning do not need to remain alive. Do as you wish.

Perhaps the Wolf should have conversed with the Marr child, but finding the responsible party was personal. They would not only experience the full wrath of the Order, they would learn just how brutal the Dread Wolf could be. He sighed, knowing it was also possible he was chasing a dead end. Gerwald simply would not be content to declare it as such until Oleander confirmed it. If their minds had been influenced, the Anzat would taste it.

His eyes drifted to the chronometer which was next to the display in his temporary quarters on the Mors Mon.

He was late.

The Wolf quickly changed. He would not arrive looking any less commanding or intimidating than what his reputation demanded. His presence had been requested, so he had agreed. Normally the Stewjoni native would be one for a loud and rapturous event. Mead would flow, songs would be sung, and by the time the night was over all would forget the sting of the losses suffered in the last raid. All that would be left was the joy of their spoils.

This party would have none of that.

Gerwald found his mood a little sour. His campaign was long, and he missed the comfort of his own bed, and the warmth of his mate in it. He would rather be on Jutrand, with Naedira at his side. She would help him make sense of what he was missing. It was something she had done from the first day they had met. No one knew his blind spots better than her. Gerwald loved her for it.

Determined steps carried the large beast of a man toward the hangar where the ceremony was to be held. A chill filled the air, it was more than the cool of space travel. He could smell her, jasmine and rain. Gerwald turned, and walking down the corridor was his master, the Dread Queen. They had yet to discuss what had happened, and it was not a conversation he was looking forward to. Perhaps they could avoid it until after the celebration, or it could be finished quickly as they walked toward the gathering.

"My lady," Gerwald inclined his head toward her as he offered his arm. "May I?"

”Imperius,” the Dread Wolf nodded to the Sith.

 

[Oleander Webb]

Roused from the confines of a deathly still sleep, the gentle beep of a message brought fourth a glare from Death itself at the offending alert. He had half the mine to ignore it, to roll back over and fall back into the dreamless rest he'd been dragged from. But no. Above all things, Oleander was a professional.

Reading over the missive sent by Gerwald Lechner , his lips twitched a fraction, a smirk wanting to peak out from his usually grim countenance. Finally, a mission that suited his unique talents. Corpse-cold hands grasped the communicator, typing out one single word in response.

Understood.

 

[Trayze Tesar]

CURRENT MISSION - Warhorse's Respite
Immediate Goals -
1: Stand there
1.1: Look Pretty
1.2: Stand there while looking pretty
1.3: Don't fall over while standing there and looking pretty.
2: Catch up with kinsmen
2.2: Investigate the big fluffy stuffing their face with the refreshments.

BLUFOR - Darth Malum of House Marr

OPFOR - Enemy Unknown

TARGETING ACTION(S) - Darth Malum of House Marr || Noctis || Rieka || Kaila Irons || OPEN FREQUENCY

---

Trayze was quiet, as quiet as he usually was when he was thinking about a great many things. Despite the Kiffar's insistence, the two were more alike than appearances would indicate - and so Malum would recognize through his face the loose train of thought.

Cheekiness from insisting that "Tray" would be much simpler and less "childish" of a nickname, bashfulness from the possibility of him being the guest of honor, to a sullen, distant thought as Malum mentioned his own designs for Her Highness this outing. If Malum was especially perceptive, there was the slightest rise of panic, frantically searching for an aura belonging to a masked female Darth - the youngest of recent memory. It was a sullen silence of conflict, that was broken first by Malum's playful insistence that he warmed his bed with his droids - but he sensed the presence of the Dread Empress, the one who he had solicited for advice.

Next, he seemed to finally register the words his cousin stated, before exhaling. "Knighthood... after giving me my homeworld as a governate..." the Kiffar began, with a sigh. "Ah suppose Ah'll stoop ta' nepotism an' accept it... but there are two things you ought to know." he turned, his face serious and somber, the aura of the Force around him opening to disclose his personal feelings.

"Firstly, we will do this in the manner of your department." Trayze knew about the Tsis'Kaar initiation process - specifically the Netherworld. Had the Ravenlord used the resources of the Tsis'Kaar to track his cousin, he would find Trayze looking into matters pertaining the soul, and afterlife. "Secondly... dance carefully around Her Highness," he placed a hand on the black haired Sith's shoulder, using his psychometry to echo the moment that Quinn died, the moment she revived... and the women who wept and broke their hearts over her. "There will be many who wish to dance with her this day."

It was frustratingly cryptic to Trayze's usual brusque bluntness, but Malum would tell that his cousin found himself in a difficult position - divided between his kinsmen and what he had discovered on his own. After all, it was moments such as these when the two cousins held starkly different viewpoints of life that gradually widened the gap between them in the first place.