The Secret of the Ruined City

[Nimue Stormson]

The party held on the planet Effekt had finally ended and Empress Nimue had felt exhausted. It had been a long day and even longer of a party. So many guests met and so many friends, allies and potential partners made. The entire event had left the Empress nearly winded from all the standing and dancing and eating and drinking and talking she went through. She was resorted to sitting on her throne as each guest who was leaving would come and give a final farewell before exiting the palace and being escorted via carriage or speeder.​

​

It was so late into the night that most of the city had gone as quiet as the hall. Some small groups were still celebrating today, fires lit while everyone was gathered around them and singing ballads and drinking ale until they passed out. Some already had, either in their beds or on the streets.​

​

For Empress Nimue she waited until the last guests, which were her four noble lord advisors, had retired for the night as well. Once they did she sighed with relief before picking herself up and walking out of the man hall to the nearest hallway. She dismissed her servants for now as she needed a moment to herself. Once alone she sighed from exhaustion and leaned against the nearest vacant wall.​

​

It was true what they said about the head being heavy when weighing a crown. In fact Nimue’s head felt heavy enough that she had to remove her large horned crown, a great air of relief when feeling cool air against her forehead. As much as she liked wearing it, the headpiece was often a great burden.​

​

After taking enough time to regain herself Nimue stood, carrying her crown in one hand and her scepter in the other. As she walked she realized she was forgetting something. It took a moment for her to remember she was to meet with [member="Darth Arcanix"] after the party had ended, only she wasn’t sure where she’d gone.​

​

Finding the closest servant the Empress stopped him, a fat little man, and asked “You. Have you see one of my guests? A woman? Said she was staying afterwards?”​

​

It took a moment before the servant answered “Oh, yes. The odd woman in the green dress. She went to the library, your majesty.”​

​

Nodding Nimue said “Thank you.” Before handing him both her crown and scepter. “See these both returned to my chamber. Have the crow cleaned first. No doubt it’s starting to smell a little.”​

​

Without waiting to hear the servant’s response Nimue made her way to the library within the palace. It was a grand collection of books to be sure. Two levels worth of history and stories and the like all collected together in one grand room. Some were hand written and preserved while others had been stored on data drives that were blended into the stonework and Nordic look of the palace itself. Spiral stairs at both the front and back lead to the next level and tables were set in every aisle and all down the center of the room leading to the back. At the very end was a large fireplace with a portrait of an old man dressed in fine clothing and furs hanging above.​

​

Emperor Aemon Stormson, 3rd Emperor of the Stormborn Empire​

"Castles will rise and fall. Empires will grow and shrink. Heroes will be remembered only through words and memory. If one wants to be remembered, one must learn from something they will uttelry be: History."​

​

Upon spotting her guest Nimue strode over while saying aloud for her to hear “I remember coming here a lot when I was but a servant in these halls. I would find history dating as far back as the time before the visitors came and granted out planet technology. Records of the old Emperors. And all the dark stories of history. All together in one room. It was like finding a secret trove of the gods themselves. So how does it compare to the places in your galactic society that store history and information, Lady Sith?” ​

 

[Taeli Raaf]

[member="Nimue Stormson"]

"It has a quaint feel, not unlike my own chambers on Coruscant," Taeli replied, not turning around from where she was examining the portrait. She was no longer disguising her Force presence, allowing her full power to be on display and felt by the Empress. It was all about making impressions after all.

"I do have to say," Taeli continued, turning around to face the Empress, "your people have a fascinating history, especially about the city of Kullcor I believe it was called. I couldn't resist the urge of finding some books on them and checking some details. Millions dead, from what your people say, was a sacrifice by those sorcerers to the gods, when I see a group of dark side Force users way over their heads. Their actions would have created a dark side nexus from the amount of death and dark emotions unleashed in their spell."

She smiled as the Empress seemed to have amore natural look without her crown or scepter.

"So I believe we have a few things to discuss, yes?"

 

[Nimue Stormson]

Standing behind her, folding her arms, Nimue looked up to the portrait of Emperor Aemon as [member="Darth Arcanix"] mentioned her chambers and then went on to explain her theory about the city of Kullcor. The whole time the Empress’ sense were going crazy. It was like a low buzzing all over her body. It was coming from the Sith. This had made her realize just how powerful she was. Impressive.​

​

When mention of Kullcor’s story came up Nimue had said “This ‘nexus’, as you call it, do you think it hold some sort of untapped power to be used? If it’s indeed a force for this ‘darkside’ do you think it can be used in some beneficial way?”​

​

After she gave whatever explanation she did Nimue would think on it before saying “Of course. But you’re right. We did have a few things to discuss. For starters, these weapons and armor you make.” She gestured for her to sit at the nearest table while saying “Come.” Once both were sat down Nimue’s her hands folded on top of the wooden table, had commented “You’ve likely never seen how Effektian warriors fight, have you? They are berserkers and marauders. They ravage and destroy any and all in their path. And that was only when we had simple swords and shields and arrows over five-hundred years ago. Imagine what sort of force they would be now if amplified with your technology.”​

 

[Taeli Raaf]

[member="Nimue Stormson"]

"A dark side Force nexus, or any Force nexus, is a concentrated area of Force energy," Taeli explained as she sat down. "The amount of power and energy contained within one can be enormous, some have been known to have limitless energy like one on the planet Ruusan. Others are more concentrated in a single area, it all depends on how it was formed and if it has been forced into dormancy. We will need a powerful release of Force energy to awaken if that is necessary."

As Nimue explained how exactly her Effektian warriors fought, Taeli's mind started to go into overdrive with possibilities. Berserkers and marauders . . . oh how interesting, and they would be ferocious allies on the battlefield. Oh yes, things would be interesting indeed, especially if she could also get these stubborn people to agree to have shipyards and begin taking to the stars.

The histories she had read only showed Taeli how isolationist the population and nobles of this planet were, not wanting to take to the skies. That simply wouldn't do any longer.

"My companies would certainly be happy to provide modern weapons and armor, even shipyards to begin your reach into space," Taeli said, pyramiding her fingers on the table. "I can certainly imagine what force your warriors could be in warfare."

 

[Nimue Stormson]

More talk and prospects for the finding the Force Nexus had intrigued the Empress. If it was a powerful source of energy as [member="Darth Arcanix"] claimed, and given what went into creating a Force Nexus itself seemed similar to what had been done centuries ago, then it had to be within Kullcor. If she could harness that sort of power the Empress realized that she would become even more powerful than before.​

​

Then when talk of outfitting her armies with weapons and armored was mentioned she leaned back and smirked. Her right hand rested on the arm of her chair while her left went up to support her head as she leaned on it. A cold smirk was on her face as she listened to the Sith tell of what she could provide. It was clear underneath that beautiful face lied the mind of a tactician and conqueror.​

​

“If you can provide ships as well, we’ll be able to send them anywhere needed. They’ll need a little lessoning on where they’d be going and what they’d be facing, but the warriors of Effekt see death as but a means to glory and honor. Dying in battle means they will dine with the gods forever in the enteral halls. They’ll have no real fear of what they may face.” ​

 

[Taeli Raaf]

[member="Nimue Stormson"]

Taeli was quite glad the Empress was indeed interested, and her warriors sounded like the perfect allies on the battlefield. They would not fear death, but welcome it. She wished the Sith troopers had such a zeal, but alas, that was not the case.

"How very interesting," she said with a smirk that matched the Empress's as she leaned back in her chair. "Of course, now comes the more difficult part of such negotiations. The price for my cooperation. I am perfectly happy to help with the Force Nexus and provide modern technology, but I need to know what exactly you plan to offer me."

She wondered how the Empress would respond, and if it would be along the lines of the things she had offered when she spoke with her during the party. She was curious, very curious indeed.

 

[Nimue Stormson]

Once the matter of payment came up Nimue chuckled in her throat. It was an inevitable point there were bound to reach into the conversation; as all these types of deals would inevitably. But Nimue wasn’t going to deuce [member="Darth Arcanix"] out of a proper payment. It was just a matter of figuring what she would need. She leaned one arm on the table, her fingers rubbing against her other in her hand, as she figured what would be suitable.​

​

“Effekt it rich in materials.” She began. “We export in one major thing: wealth. Our mines are filled to the brim with gold and silver and all other manner of riches. You’ll be well paid in that of course. But perhaps you want more, yes? Whatever it may be. A private house here of Effekt for you, should the need to hide away or be with yourself be needed. Perhaps you’d wish a large squadron of our new warriors to act as your own private army?” She then reached her hand out to trail her finger around the Sith’s palm before saying “Whatever you may wish, I can oblige.”​

 

[Taeli Raaf]

[member="Nimue Stormson"]

All sorts of things were racing through her mind, including the fact it seemed the Empress was trying to seduce her. Now that was an interesting development, and she had to admit herself curious about what it would be like. She couldn't tell Ice though, that might not go so well, or he would find it hilarious, or hot.

"All of those things intrigue me," she replied slowly, not stopping the Empress's advances and letting her to continue run a finger along her palm. "Riches and a private estate here would do wonders for . . . certain things I would want to keep hidden, also I would not be adverse to having a squad of your berserkers at my command. As for something else. . ."

She trailed off and moved over to sit on the table near the Empress.

"I have to admit, my curiosity is getting the better of me here, but you've intrigued me, your Majesty," she whispered, a coy smile on her lips now as she slowly ran a hand along the Empress's cheek, down her neck, and along the curve of her dress.

 

[Nimue Stormson]

The advanced from [member="Darth Arcanix"] had made Nimue chuckle in her throat. As she touched her hand against her face all the way down to her body the Empress’ hand trailed a finger around her nearest arm up to the middle of her chest.​

​

“I’m glad it all interests you, lady Arcanix.” She said, her green eyes gleaming at her with a smirk. “Perhaps we should take this to more private accommodations.”​

​

Nimue stood and took the Sith by the hand before leading her out of the library and through the halls. As they walked they pasted by one or two servants, none of which gave any second glance to the Empress leading her guest via hand to what was obviously her bedchamber. The hallways of the place were lit with artificial torches that almost emulated fire. Tapestries depicting old battles and important moments in Effekt’s history hung about while old suits of armor stood guard. Large windows looked out, some looking towards the rest of the city of Halaban while others were directed towards the mountains and surrounding land of forests.​

​

Upon reaching her room the Empress opened two large wooden doors that were guarded by two more warriors. Entering the room it would hit the Sith how vast it was for being in a palace like Nimue’s. It had a tall ceiling about twenty feet high and was about the same in length. A large bed with carved wooden ends sat at the very back and was covered in fur sheets. Opposite that was a fireplace, ten feet wide, with a chair and desk and foot rest with a book sitting on it; one the Empress was likely in the middle of reading. A small doorway to the right exited to a balcony overlooking the entire city, the night sky and the light of two full moons lighting it as bright as it could be. And standing over the fireplace, like in the library, was a portrait of another former Emperor; Nimue’s late husband Victor Stormson.​

 

[Taeli Raaf]

[member="Nimue Stormson"]

Taeli looked around the room, walking around it slowly and taking it all in.

"Your late husband, I'm guessing?" she said softly, the left strap of her dress slipping from her shoulder as she walked past the portrait. While this wasn't her normal cup of tea, she couldn't deny she had moonmoths in her stomach at what was fast approaching. It was something new, something exciting.

"My condolences," she continued quietly, coming up to the Empress slowly, the strap of her dress falling. "But I don't think you want to think about all that pain right now."

She got even closer to the Empress, her purple eyes reflecting the Empress's eyes. Her heart was pounding slightly.

"Tomorrow we go to Kullcor, yes?"

 

[Nimue Stormson]

Mention of her husband made Nimue look to his picture above the fireplace. She sat down where she was, which was at the foot of the bed, before sighing. Even with what [member="Darth Arcanix"] had said it was still hard to have to remember that he was gone. The one man that she’d truly loved more than any in this world.​

​

When the Sith came up to her and told how to not remind of the past she trailed her hand across her cheek and said “Agreed.” After that she’d noticed how the two eyes reflected into each other, she so anxious to have it finally happen. “Yes, tomorrow Kullcor.” She said before grabbing the other strap of her dress and pulling it down. After that she grabbed Arcanix by the hips and moved her around so that she laid on the bed with the Empress over her, saying “But tonight, we’re among the star.”​

​

And finally the Empress leaned in for a kiss.​

 

[Taeli Raaf]

[member="Nimue Stormson"]

The kiss was full of a passion Taeli hadn't expected, but she could feel a sense of need behind it, to feel physical intimacy again after being denied it for so long. That was what she was feeling anyways, but her mind quickly started to shut down her thought processes as she gave into the emotions and responded with a more passionate kiss. This might be a one off thing, possibly, but she wouldn't know what the future held at all.

Wanting to show the Empress that here at least, she was not in charge, Taeli rolled them over and began the slow, oh so slow, process of reducing the Empress to a puddle of goo, over and over again. It would be a distinct challenge indeed, she thought as her dress fell away and passion reigned.

*Fade to Black*​

​

"Well that was a very interesting night," Taeli said, blinking away sleep as she rose from the covers. The sunlight streaming into the Empress's bedchambers, flowing across the bed to where both women lay. It had been rather intense, the emotions powerful, and Taeli had enjoyed every moment of it. Perhaps the future would indeed hold more of this, perhaps not. Now though, she was excited to start their expedition.

 

[Nimue Stormson]

The Empress had been asleep for a while after [member="Darth Arcanix"] awoke. She was still cuddled under the fur blankets that draped over her bed. The previous night had been so “exhilarating” that she needed the time to recover herself. Her long black hair was all a grand mess as she hummed delightfully in her sleep.​

​

When she had finally awoken her eyes were still closed as she reached over and grabbed the Sith by the wrist. “Ah good.” She muffled in her tired voice. “You’re still here. For a moment I thought I was dreaming all of last night.” She lifted herself up as she sat on her chest before looking over her shoulder to her and smiling “That was certainly grand, I must say.” She could feel the sun’s light starting to crack through into her chamber, making her cover her eyes, before commenting “Oh my. Morning already? Well then best get up before everything falls apart without me.” She picked herself up, still bare naked, before stretching her limbs out and asking "You feel the need for eating before we leave? I feel as though I need something. Barley ate much during that party." ​

 

[Taeli Raaf]

[member="Nimue Stormson"]

Taeli smiled, glad that the Empress had enjoyed their time last night. Nimue had certainly been an interesting bedfellow, and Taeli wouldn't mind seeing her like this again. It seemed more of her master had rubbed off on her than she expected, bloody Zeltrons.

"I would certainly hope it wasn't a dream," she replied with a small smile. "You were amazing so you know. As for eating, I'm good for now, the Force can sustain me for quite some time, even after such . . . rigorous activities."

Getting out of bed herself, allowing the sun to stream across her body as she did give the Empress one last searing kiss before putting on her dress from the party. She was far more interested in beginning their expedition and if she needed any food or drink, they could bring along some nutrient bars or water. She knew what they were about to undertake would be something that would severe ramifications for the Empress, a dark side nexus always would heighten emotions and draw those linked to the dark side to it, calling for them to draw upon its power.

 

[Nimue Stormson]

As [member="Darth Arcanix"] spoke of how great last night was Nimue looked back and smiled, cocking her head to the side, while walking over to a large wardrobe sitting in the room and opening it to find a robe. A silky black on was thankfully right there for her which she pulled out immediately and put on, trying the sash around her waist.​

​

As she finished she heard the Sith speak of the Force being able to sustain those who could use it without eating. She stopped for a moment and said “Useful as that is I don’t see much appeal. Part of having a tongue is spoiling the taste buds after all.” After that she opened the door and only poked her head out, seeing some of the servants were walking by while doing their usual daily activities. She stopped one and spoke of what she wanted, they bowing and running off, before she came back into the room and said “There were are. Something nice and hot to start the day off.” After that she walked back to her desk, pulling out a map from a drawer and saying “Now let’s look over this map. You can see, here, that Kullcor is a bit of a ways from here. But one of those shuttles you came in can get us there in no time I think.”​

 

[Taeli Raaf]

[member="Nimue Stormson"]

"Well if you insist on a meal, who am I to say no," Taeli replied, coming up beside the Empress to observe the map. It appeared no one had constructed even the smallest village near the ruins, and that it was quite a distant from the capital and palace. Perhaps, she mused, the dark side nexus wasn't completely dormant and people were still being affected by it slightly. The Empress did say people consider the ruins to be cursed and forsaken. How Interesting.

"I suggest we take the meal with us if we're using my shuttle," she said, tapping her chin. "And I hope you're prepared for whatever we have to do while we are there. Even a dormant nexus will change things around it, especially living creatures."

 

[Nimue Stormson]

When [member="Darth Arcanix"] mentioned the meal needing to be brought with them Nimue sighed before saying “Very well. A moment.” She walked back to the door and called for a servant to tell the cooks where to take the meal. After that she closed the door and walked back as she talked about creatures being affected, Nimue looking a little nervous and saying “Really? You’re sure?” She glanced back at the map before adding “Then this might be very tricky indeed. There’s no telling what beasts might have nested there.” She gasped and said aloud “Especially if there’s Dwergi!”​

 

[Taeli Raaf]

[member="Nimue Stormson"]

"I wouldn't be too worried," she said, with a reassuring smile. "You'd be surprised what I've had to deal with during the course of my time with the Sith, but I have to ask what is a Dwergi?"

The reaction from the Empress told her that it must be some terrifying or powerful creature, and that it was not the easiest thing to fight. She wasn't too worried about it herself, but then she also had a few tricks up her sleeves that the Empress never would have seen or heard of from being isolated for so long. Certain Force powers were kept quiet for a reason.

Even as she waited for the meal to arrive and the meal, she pulled out her datapad and activated the engines and start-up systems for her shuttle. She figured she would need her lightsabers for this upcoming expedition, and quite possibly need to prepard an awakening ritual. But she would know more when they got there.

 

[Nimue Stormson]

Looking to [member="Darth Arcanix"] the Empress explained “The Dwergi are a horrible race of man-beasts. They’re very strong and savage. They eat practically anything they can find. And they keep to the shadows and caves. During the daytime they’d be blinded by the sun, which is why they only hunt at night. But the ruined city would be a perfect place for them to have a tribe or two living in it. Plenty of dark places and a lot of space to roam around.” Thinking on t for a minute the Empress said “Perhaps if we have had the men…oh, no. I forgot, no one would go near the city even if I ordered them to. It’s to old a taboo to trespass on those grounds.” She stood in silence for a moment before deciding “Very well. The two of us will have to risk it.”​

 

[Taeli Raaf]

[member="Nimue Stormson"]

"Well they sound nice and reasonable," Taeli said jokingly. "Reagrdless, I think between the two of us, we should easily be able to traverse and explore the city."

The Dwergi sounded interesting to her, their savagery and strength reminded her almost of the Flesh Raiders that were said to live on Tython. Perhaps she could capture a few and bring them back for certain experiments. So many projects on the brain, so little time it seemed. Still, it seemed it would be an interesting fight if they did encounter some of these creatures.

"How much longer until the meal arrives and we can begin?" she asked.