Private A Dead Ship?

[Dolor Cordis]

Walker

Location: Deep Space in the Gricho Sector of the Tingel Arm. Above the Planet of Dathomir.

---

Deep in the reaches of space, many ships tend to pass each other, some engaging in battle, trades or even simple pleasantries. But, the space around the dark planet of Dathomir, it is told that ships what enter there, never come back. Some rumors talked of the planet drawing in those lost with its intrigue, or treasures. Some talked of monstrous beasts of the blackened sky, sending star ships to their graves. But one talked of a ship. A ship of charred metal, marked with a curse. Those that venture too close, marked by curiosity and greed for valuables will awaken the vessel and seal their doom.

Whilst these rumors were passed around by pirates from many different cantinas and bars of a varying nature, some reached across the galaxy. Given how no one saw the deadly ship, its devilish crew or captain for almost 10 years, some thought the rumors just that. Rumors. Rumors to cover up pirate activities around, picking off small defenseless ships. But if only those still foolish enough to go there knew. Still, every now and then, ships would simply blip off the map, nowhere to be found.

Sitting, well out of Dathomir's atmosphere, was a large frigate. A Munificent-class star frigate, from over 800 years ago judging from the appearance, powered down and hardly showing any functions aside from the odd spark. It looked dead, some would say it matched the planet below its charred and dented surface. The metal of the ship looked like it had taken a mid supernova star to the hull for way too long. The engines, silent, without a glow to them. In place of the older CIS symbol marked on every one of these from past long ago, was covered over. A large horned skull, wrapped in chains looked out at the many stars and planets that came into its eyeless view.

Alone it sat there, almost as if it was a grave for hundreds of lifeforms. Or, in wait for something to pass by. But the Horned Queen of metal and rage, along side her unyielding crew couldn't still be alive after all the many ships it had attacked? Galactic Alliance or otherwise. None could survive over 25 years of battles. None could survive 10 years of silence after that kind of life, Right?

 

[Walker]

Dolor Cordis

Ship: Persistence
The Generator (on board)

The alchemist had traveled across the galaxy a great deal, seen and made many strange things. And often that brought with it either caution, or a greater lack there-of. In many ways Vash exercised cautions, he used subordinates to deal with a lot of jobs, he rarely allowed anyone on his ship unless he was in total control of the situation. In other ways not nearly as much. He hung around a great deal of pirates and low tier mercs. They were conveniences to him, he could persuade them into objectives that benefited both of them offering his aid in turn for a portion of the profits. But he was not one of them. He had heard them talk about many things, for the most part, it was pointless to listen. Too many rumors, even were he to have his people research the truth of them, he'd never know them all in this ever-shifting galaxy. It was pointless in his mind.

The Alchemist looked at the biological information he'd collected, the Voran he saw as one of his greatest creations, certainly the greatest of the purely organic kind. Reproductive beings, long life spans, incredible physical ability, intelligent, and capable inherently of force sight. This all came at costs of course, but the subjects of his study would serve far better to this creation than whatever their lives were before. Not that he needed a justification.

An alert came up and he lifted his head, Kot Vind walked forwards and bowed his head, "Ship found. Looks near destroyed, probably a bad fight....or several. Could be profitable." his words were short as desired and were little more than suggestions. Vash took in a breath getting up and heading out to look at the ship and its sparks, "Eh, I guess somethin' could be found on board. Little extra fuel, maybe some corpses, see if there are any weapons or ammo worth taking. Dock her. You can stay on the Persistence, keep the ship running in case we get snuck up on. Keep your weapons on you, just in case."

The half human half vran would pick up a Cursed Blade, sheathing it across his back and tuck a pistol by his side. The same type of sword also held by Kot. Walker could have a high awareness at times, and some telepathy, but his emotions were irregular, and it there were moments they interfered with how he functioned. Right now, he was not paying all that much attention to the ships contents yet.

 

[Dolor Cordis]

Walker

---

With the Persistence drawing closer, and its crew getting ready to dock onto the dead looking frigate, the Munificent star ship rested still. Hundreds of its crew lay in wait across its interior. It'd be too late to run if they found out. The Captain and her crew had rehearsed this many times with other ships, their carcasses far below on the planet's surface after being shot out of the sky. The Captain got one of her captives in their place, right in one of the more narrow hallways as if left to die, knowing deception was key here. Placing a gag in their mouth before knocking them out would keep them detectable, but quiet to their plans. The large metal collar still active around her neck as tens of crew waited there, swords gripped, and pistols loaded.

Carne, the First Mate, took her place beside her captain, facing the door whilst Dolor watched the ship from the bridge. Her suit of black and red softly glowing on the bridge. The Captain had her Hand Cannon Side Arm and Vibro-Sword cutlass, her First Mate with her own sword of the same type. They both awaited the moment to reactivate the power and seal the invaders inside this deathly ship. The Twins, Eldon and Brant waited with the crew, listening for the signal to move. Both had their personal shields of energy and vibro-maces in hand to use at a moment's notice. Given the ship's density, most forms of detection would fall short, not to mention leave the incoming team blind. As for the Navigator, Zetta, she resided on the bridge, watching and waiting for her captain's orders to 'flip the switch'. Her small blaster pistols in their holsters, along with a small knife in her hand.

The ship's interiors were dark, almost pitch black. A faint glow from the red planet below was the only source of light to pierce the small groups of windows in more open areas. The docking section of the ship the boarding crew were nearest had been ready, awaiting the arrival of a new vessel to lock onto. It was the only form of power aside from the small traces of oxygen and gravity correction systems. The crew's armor, when laid on a wall, or in a corner, made them indistinguishable from the metal around them, worn and dented oddly. Shone in the wrong light, every facet of the ship looked alive, or at least like it ravaged within an inch of something's life.

Traces of recent life was evident in some things. Half empty rations packs being very occasional. But the rest of the ship looked dead. Far below, in the more desolate areas of the ship, awaited the captives, bound and unconscious. Opposite to them, just two floors above the docking point near the bridge was the captain's quarters. Further along, one of the many crew quarters. The latter was empty save for some beds and smaller personal items, whilst the captain's cabin had more inside. A large stand for armor, empty. A metal bar with a small metal object on it. At the far end of it, a large organ styled machine rested, the keys still clear and dust free. A bed, recently rested in, and weapon casing void of its contents.

The ship's crew were ready, but were the owners of this other ship as it drew closer.

 

[Walker]

Dolor Cordis

Vash walked onto the ship with care as the hatch opened. Full of shadow, the force would guide him more than his eyes in that case. Shame, had he figured out a reliable way of applying the eyes to pre-existing creatures yet, than he wouldn't have even the slightest issue here. Though, had he done that, he also would have known of the crews presence before he'd ever boarded. It had a living feeling to it, yet seemed so dead. Like one of those old Sith tombs, but from a more practical sense. It didn't really worry him, though that lack of concern wouldn't be entirely kept that way.

As he moved, slowly, due to the possibility of the ships failing state, he saw/sensed the body on the ground a few meters ahead of him, the force aiding his eyes but not in its full state of awareness. "Alive, but thoughtless. And in a peculiar spot." he said aloud seeking the mind. Their lack of consciousness made searching their thoughts pointless, aside from knowing they weren't dreaming or awake. Were he a good man, he might have gone to inspect the body, maybe call out to them. He was not.

He stood where he was, and his Vo instead moved. The organ inside him that could use the force, in some ways, at his command. Intent on dragging the body towards him and flipping it over. If there was one body, there could be more. He turned to head towards his ship. If they were like this due to a lack of oxygen, why are they here? Why alone? Why is this ship, in this decayed state, still have a body on it. Yet, there is no other signs of what should remain. Only two options, it was recent and extremely destructive, and more could return soon. Or, I may not be alone. Vash was not a scout, he was not a pirate. He did not normally consider thinking in such a manner and his carelessness put him in the middle of a ship that was either with a crew that didn't want to be found at all, a crew that was doing this on purpose, or a ship that wasn't going to be alone for long.

What to do about that however, he didn't know. He was already too far in the ship to get out easily without arousing suspicion. And he lacked the ability to cloak himself with the force. "Well...I screwed up." he admitted before Vo imbued his body with the force enhancing his phsyical abilities and he darted down the hallways, keeping his head as best he could and leaving the body behind. He sent a messege to Kot telepathically. Guard the door until I get there. We may not be alone. He wasn't sure if he had enough time to actually get out or not, but his sword leapt from his back and into his hands. igniting with fire and illuminating the area around him as he ran.

 

[Dolor Cordis]

Walker

---

As the lone explorer ventured around her ship, Dolor Cordis had decided to utilize one of her unique creations. The small, birdlike droid activated with its wings unfurling. Instantly, the small droid took off as it left through small vents and passages meant for small droids. It wasn't long before it reached the location of Vash. It's silent flying made it almost like a ghost as it landed and watched through the grate to the Alchemist below. As the man examined the bound and unconscious being, the droid sent an alert to the captain. Dolor's eye patch instantly followed suit and activated, showing a live feed from the droid's perspective. It was only seconds after the man spoke and began to run that the connection cut, the droid wanting to get a better view point. But, Dolor knew it was time.

"Lock it down," Dolor said, her metallic voice emanating from the helmet as Zetta hit the switch. Instantly the whole ship's systems began to come online. First, the reactor powered up, opening doorways and flickering on lights. Tens of crew began to laugh, their jeers and wails of merciless joy rattled the halls and decks of the ship. Exterior weapons and shielding activated, sealing any wandering ships fate. The docking point the Persistence was locked on to triggered its own trap. The locking system immediately took its hold tightly on the ship. Any escape from the charred ship was cut off now.

As Vash ran down the hallways, the security doors began to close. One right at the end of the section he was in, before the many doors lining the hall walls opened. Tens of pirates holding blasters, melee weapons ran out, the two Twins, Eldon and Brant leading the hoard of crew. Their Vibro-Maces active and ready for use. "Well, 'ello there, matey," Muttered Eldon, his grin intense and psychotic. More pirates emerged behind Vash, each pointing a blaster at him.

Soon after, the ship's Jamming tech switched on. Every form of communication that would reach out of the ship was cut off. the Persistence's own communication systems also jammed from contacting any other planet or allies. Dolor knew what the crew would want to do, but she also knew they'd follow her command. Capture the man alive, then board his ship and take any back alive if possible.

"Give up, y'r surrounded!" Brant said, hitting the mace on his shield of energy as each blaster was set to stun. Given the many blasters on him, Vash would easily be shot. But it was his choice. "Put down the sword, and we'll consider letting ya live," Eldon offered, his commanding tone booming across the closed corridor, "The Cap'n wants ta see ye." Elsewhere, Tens of the crew were getting ready to board the docked ship, their own mission ready to be executed. Their blasters of varying types, from pistols to rifles to heavy auto, they gripped their handles, as they got ready for the signal, a small blip on the panel beside the docked ship controlling the Docking systems from the bridge was all they needed. But, first the man had to be captured.

 

[Walker]

He felt the ship turn on, Kot at the other end was ready to shoot at anything that might be someone stealthed. Even sometimes when there was no such signs. Vash heard their laughs and he started to feel a fury rise up in him at such a thought. He skidded to a holt as gritted teeth opened with something of a hatred smile. He looked at the vibro maces and that hate turned to laughter.

Burn the halls, but I'm not sure when I'll be returning yet. He sent the telepathic messege to Kot. No response was needed, Kot held out the sword and the entrance to the Persistence was flooded with fire from the Cursed Blade and any pause filled with fire from from his heavy blaster, or an ilum-carbonite-grenade. Kot wasn't a force wielder, but he didn't have to be. That was the design of the weapon. Kot also didn't have even the slightest concern about the fire himself, being a devaronian. That technique wouldn't last forever, he just hoped Vash could give new orders before he was forced to stop from the drain of the weapon. He could hold it longer than most, and as usual for both of them made sure there was some energy in it already. But Vash was far more effective at the weapon since he was at least a force sensitive.

"Clever." The room filled with fire as the blade came to life whirling around him and away and Vash was on the ground in an instant lunging to the side, if they were to fire, they'd more likely be hitting each other if he was surrounded. With his Vo enhancing his already considerable physical abilities, and now aware of the dangers, it was going to be a lot harder to hit him even if they knew where to shoot between the fire.

But, while he'd love to just kill them all after falling into that trap. He was still at a very disadvantageous position. And he wasn't sure how that would work. Telepathy took its place again, reaching out to all their minds. He wasn't a master telepath, but he had enough to send and see, "Let me live?! I'll consider meeting them. But if I go unconscious, my ship will release mines and all its weapons on this machine. Assuming I don't burn you all to a crisp first." He stayed on the move, low to the ground, fast, and engulfing any hall he was in in fire. If anyone passed through the bubble like area around him he'd aim the blade to cut them, with the intention of sucking some of their own stamina out of them to further fuel the weapons power before dashing off at an angle. It was hot, very hot, while he kept the fire well off himself he could still feel the heat pouring off starting to sizzle his clothes and began to burn. But the destructive power of fire had to be considered, as did the noise it made hiding any way of finding him with sight or sound.

Dolor Cordis

 

[Dolor Cordis]

Walker

---

With the flames, blaster fire and a strange unknown non-lethal grenades, the pirate crew ducked behind cover or energy based shields to from a wall. They were safe for a while, and they're foes weapons will eventually fail and need replenishment. Taking their time, they waited until the blaster fire and grenades ended before firing a volley of Stun Shots from their blasters into the flames, awaiting their target to drop. Even if others were on board, the stun shots were so fierce, any that tried to take the Devaronian's place would befall the same unconscious state. Many pirates tossed EMP grenades into the ship's open doors, disabling any devices, blasters and droids inside. Each grenade became a mass wave of Elector Magnetic energy to encompass a portion of the area they were firing at. It would be hard to fight without their precious flames.

As for Vash, and his unrelenting waves of fire and agile movements, the crew watched their aim, firing only when he was in eye shot. They moved out of his way, fearing the sword and its fire, but also keeping track of him. With every hallway he passed through, Zetta activated the fail-safes. Water began to rain down over every inch of fire, extinguishing it instantly. It wasn't till the third hallway that Dolor spoke, "Use the cage," and Zetta obliged. A group of pirates rolled multiple Stun grenades, flash bangs and roughly build concussion based devices in Vash's path before a Ray Shield dropped from the ceiling to the floor, encasing Vash. With this, his flames wouldn't pass through, nor could he without dying from the intense shocks it gave. The many grenades all went off, sending the entire contents of the ray shield's into a world of blinding light, deafening noise and enough delirious impacts to cause even a Zilo Beast to falter.

Once every single grenade went off, pirates with a blaster rifles aimed with their sights. As soon as the ray shield began to drop, the pirates fired over 50 stun shots into the area where Vash was, taking both the ceiling and lowest point of the floor into consideration as every inch was hit with a barrage of stun shots. All it would take was one clear hit to drop the invading man. Some pirates fiddled idly with more grenades in case this didn't do the trick, ready to lob them at Vash's location.

Dolor watched from a security camera the goings on where Vash was, hoping the man would show some promise of having some fight left in him. If not, then she'd have him brought to the bridge, like his crew were going to be. That is, if her own crew didn't kill his.

 

[Walker]

The Devaronian kept on his assault, burn blast or freeze. Until blaster barrels showed themselves beyond, he leapt to the side to keep out of the way. he watched grenades hit and tried to blast them out of the way, he hit two but another went off. However, they were only EMP's, something the ship was already shielded against thanks to the wonders of agrinium and duraplast lining. He took in a breath, and ran his hand along the blades broad end. It took some energy away from him, but he had plenty to spare. He started shutting every door, almost all of them Blast Doors, locking every part of the ship. There were going to be too many of them. He headed to the ships forefront and began watching the sensors at the door. Sealing it off and sucking the oxygen out of the other parts of the ship while turning the lighting and heat to a maximum. The ship had a very extensive environmental control settings and internal security system, every door would be an irritation ignoring the quickly rising extreme conditions. If only he could get The Generator to Vash.

The short moments he was in eye shot, so were they, it was not hard for him in that state to dodge or deflect blaster fire. He sensed the stun grenades, and waved a hand sending them flying off course. Telikinesis, enhanced physical, telepathy, and alchemy, those were the trademarks of a Vo Ni of his race.

But with all that, he was in their territory. He stopped himself from ramming into the ray shield as it came up, though again managing to force the grenades off course with telekinesis. The fire vanished as he breathed heavily looking around himself, but the force being something he was relying on more heavily. Then they dropped the shield and released another onslaught. Even Vash could only go so long, dodge, deflect, or push with the force, it just wouldn't be enough. There were too many of them to take on forevor. "Kot, make them suffer." his words reached the Devaronian telepathically before Vash got hit with several stuns after the first got him from a blade too slow to catch up.

He dropped, and Kot made the move. With that, the ships connection began releasing a considerable excess of oxygen and turrets came up from their hidden places in the floor all along the ship firing away at any intruder that dared step onto its drastically changing atmosphere. He intended to fill the Charred Ship with oxygen for the turrets to ignite flooding them with a fiery explosion to kill the intruders.

Kot was no force user, but he was Vash's most trusted aid. And Vash designed his ship to prevent any kind of unwanted intrusion. He began activating the minelayer, prepared to drop a mine right next to the two ships if there was no other choice, followed by as many more as he saw fit. He wasn't sure if it'd work, but he'd attempt to open up comms with the ship they were hooked to, his voice clearly full of anger yet full of determination to succeed, "Abysmal choice. Even a ship your size would suffer greatly with just a single button press, as we are equipped with a Minelayer that'll tear through your hull like paper at this range. If even a single one of your crew members makes it on board, I'll rip you to shreds."

Dolor Cordis

 

[Dolor Cordis]

Walker

---

As the devaronian moved into the ship, activating its defensive systems and flooding the halls with oxygen, peppering those of her crew unlucky enough to escape the turrets. Noticing the ship's tactics, Dolor sent a command to her crew. "Hold back. Wait for further commands," her voice boomed over their comm-packs. The crew of The Bound Reaper knew better than to challenge their captain. And so, they moved back.

Quickly, Vash was dragged to the bridge, not too far from his last stand with her crew. As the unconscious alchemist was relieved of his weapons, and his feet and hands bound behind his back, Dolor turned to the speaker beside a computer panel. It was this captain's most stalwart crew member. Hearing this warning, she spoke into her own comm-link and ordered her crew to, "Open the vents," as she listened to the Devaronian. Hearing about their Mine-layer that was ready to be used, Dolor chuckled.

Activating their own communication back, Dolor sent a hologram projection to the ship, to speak 'face to face' with the male. The heavy armored pirate captain, bedecked in her black armor with glowing fiery red all over, her horned helm on her head came into view of Kot. She had the appearance of a Demon, or some kind of horned monster with flaming inners. "Well, met Davaronion. You've held your place against my crew and shown great strategy in your actions," Dolor's voice came through even more mechanical than the hologram usually would, "I would like to offer you, what was called, a Parley to discuss terms and strike up a deal. Because, if you do send out your mines, you'll kill your ally here." The hologram expanded, showing a still unconscious Vash, bound with a Zabrak holding him steady on his knees. "and I will not give him up so easily. But, I will command my crew to vacate the area and open a way for you to come to the bridge. If you enter with your weapons raised, both you and he will die. But, if you cease your ship's weapons and come along peacefully, I will hold the same respect for you." Dolor raised her hands to her head as she removed the inferno glowing helmet from her head. Her Deep red colored hair draped downwards as her eye-patch alighted itself with a soft blue light. "I will not trick you with surprise attacks like my crew. That is my word, and my word is my Law." Dolor awaited Kot's response, hoping to let both her crew and their foe's captain live long enough to converse. They after all came on their ship, not the other way around.

With a quick, "Vacate the area," to her crew beside the Persistence, they did just that. They quickly moved so far back, not even a quick shot from a blaster would be accurate. Their own ship's closed halls opened their Blast Doors to make a path straight to the bridge. The birdlike droid flew in through the vent and perched itself on the Captain's shoulder, her body barely registering the mechanical bots weight. There, Dolor, Carne, Zetta, Eldon and Brant stood there, armor on and weapons holstered, Vash still kneeling at Dolor's feet. "Are ye sure of this Cap'n?" Asked Eldon, his mace hanging on his side, Brant glancing at their armored leader. Dolor's eye staring at the Togrutas silenced them quick. "O' course she is. 'Ave you lost conviction in her, ya Mongrel Dog?!" Carne spoke, her hand resting on her cutlass's handle. Even Eldon, with his mace and shield were no match for the First Mate of the ship; and he knew it. "O' course not, First Mate. T'was me mistake," Eldon apologized, his own head looking at the bridge's door for the potential arrival. Brant, knowing better stayed silent.

The swarms of pirates would await their captain's commands before acting, knowing any disregards for the Parley she issued would be met with a painful death for them. After all, no one offered a Parley, or the giver could be injured or killed until the terms are agreed on and completed. Dolor had rarely offered this, but it was needed in this moment.

 

[Walker]

Dolor Cordis

The devaronian stood tall, ready to lean over and release the mine at a moments notice if he felt trickery was at play. Constantly watching sensors and turrets and cameras. He narrowed his eyes as she mentioned the release of the mines could kill Vash as well. He was unsure if she realized, he was also risking his own life in this matter. While he could certainly time it so that the mine blew up further away from his ship, while still hitting the tail of hers quite easily due to their significant size difference. They weren't exactly weak explosives, and even at that range there was a risk he'd tear into his own thrusters.

Although he was quite relieved to see Vash alive, he wasn't yet sure what to do about it. And his face remained stoic as ever. He again narrowed his eyes at the hologram, the potential problems running through his head. Amusingly, the deception he envisioned her carrying out was one that he was inclined to carry out in some situations. However, Vash had warned against such tactics as it dissuaded surrender. Which could be more profitable than these methods. So with that in mind, he spoke, "Not enough. I have no reason to trust such a statement from a military leader, let alone those using lures. I'm far too used to dealing with pirates, mercenaries, and hunters to take you at your word. My arrival could as easily seal his fate and mine as setting the bombs off in their bay. Were the man conscious, he could perhaps argue otherwise or talk on my behalf. Until then, I will not be leaving this ship, not without a lot of destruction. His death and mine would be regrettable but I'm perfectly happy to bring you down with me. And I will not be allowing anyone onto this ship either, I'm well aware of what a single person may be capable of."

His voice nor his posture or face certainly didn't show any signs of emotional concern about the situation. But a conviction to resolve only one thing, either make them suffer as commanded, or awaken Vash to allow him to decide the course of action. Kots independence could be useful, he operated much of Vash's empire, however when it came right down to it the empires existence only was due to Vash. And ultimately Kot was but a very capable underling, obedient to a fault.

Still, from what he could see on the cameras she'd made good so far. Her crew had gotten a long way from the entrance. If he only Vash were awake, he could operate the ship remotely if need be. But he wasn't, and Kot had no such ability. As a result, his uncertainty placed him on edge. Very on edge. Even were Vash awake, neither would be pleased by this scenario.

 

[Dolor Cordis]

Walker

---

Watching the Devaronion listen to her was interesting. He was as loyal to his own captain as her First Mate was to her. Hearing his counter argument and refusal to come out or make a deal unless Vash was awake. She now knew his name. Vash.... a name she hadn't heard before. Given their skills she should have, but being isolated to this portion of the galaxy was tricky to say the least. "Very well, Devaronion. We'll wake him so you two can converse," With that, Dolor nodded to Carne, who walked to Vash and gave the man a couple soft, yet firm, taps to his cheeks. "Wake up, y've got ta talk to y'r fairly trigger happy friend, matey" Carne whispered to Vash, moving back as she watched for the man's response.

Dolor was used to this situation. She had a Hostage, and her opponent was willing to do anything to get them back. The only difference was that this one was willing to potentially die to do so. "Once your compatriot wakes, discuss what you may. Just remember that all of our shots, actions and tactics were designed to stun or intimidate. We were not willing to kill you if needed," Spoke Dolor, her voice clearer without the helmet on. "I understand your disbelief in our word, but we are more honorable than you think. We haven't killed Vash yet. Some would have already done that." Dolor was speaking the truth. Some pirates would have used the deceased body of a captive in order to trick. But she wasn't like that, despite how rumors have spoken about her.

 

[Walker]

Dolor Cordis

He remained silent as he watched the hologram with careful eyes, still switching back to the cameras and sensors regularly to monitor things. Vash felt himself coming back to consciousness, the contact hastened that a fair bit and he began to waken. as his eyes shot open and he tugged on the restraints. Kot listened to her next statement, true...she hadn't used any purely offensive tactics yet. Still, he doubted Vash was in any interest of losing his ship or its equipment. Very strange that they hadn't at some point gone for flat out death, and he would admit that it was quite plausible some could have used the body as a trick instead of the real life one.

Still, there was always suspicion in him.


Vash's his eyes shot open and he tugged on the restraints. A low growl like hum emerging from him as his eyes darted across the individuals in the room. "I see it's not in pieces yet." he said in a low voice. Kot shrugged, "Neither are you. They want a 'parley.' Me to come on board, to meet the captain."

Vash was still assessing the room, and feeling for his weapons. Shame, he'd have to start carrying more discreet ones. This was the second time he'd been put in a precarious situation. Last time though it was the force that was taken from him, partly at least. With threat of death. That got resolved. This time it was his body, yet so far, no threat of death. He wasn't in the best spot, alive, but hindered. He could probably break or unlock them, but it wouldn't be hard to notice and from this position it wouldn't be hard for them to kill him.

As much as he wanted Kot to weasel their way out of this with the possibility of blowing them up, Vash didn't actually want to die. "Fine. You may come on board." though he said this, Vash was already hooking up with his ship mentally. There was no need to deal with electronics and such for that purpose. Just the force. But, that was as far as he went. He wasn't going to release the bombs or change any systems Kot set. He wouldn't be taking many risks right now. Kot nodded and started opening up his pathway, while setting it to return all security systems once he was out.

As the devaronian walked carefully, weapons all sheathed, Vash looked up at the captain, "Well...can't say I'm happy." That much was obvious, "Should have just brought some Shekti with me and let them lose first. Course they'd also have probably eaten anything worthwhile so I guess that wouldn't have done much good."

He was less tight in movements as the devaronian was. Almost casual in his capture now, if exceedingly frustrated. Kot was making his way through the previously opened doors to the bridge. "Ok. What do you want." Kot said bluntly as he entered, choosing a spot where either he or Vash could see everyone in the room.

"Be at least a little reserved, I'm not dead so far." Vash said with a slight chuckle. Kot simply grunted in reply.

Dolor Cordis

 

[Dolor Cordis]

Walker

---

With the Parley accepted, Dolor walked to one of consoles to watch the cameras for Kot. Her face turned a fair bit relieved to see him walking their way, although she hid this from the crew. Vash's talking whilst they waited got Carne a bit annoyed, since she 'hated idle chatter', even among the crew. Eldon and Brant just got into a whispered discussion as they kept glancing at Vash. Which wasn't a great sign. Zetta just sat there, looking at the doorway for their other negotiator. Kot's arrival and blunt question drew Dolor out of her thoughts.

With Vash's joking comment on Kot's bluntness past, Dolor simply waved her hand. Carne's face, glancing to her captain, fell. "No offence Cap'n, but for the rec'red, I don't like this idea," Carne stated, moving towards Vash as she drew a vibro-knife. "It's to show I'm honest with my word. Speak out of turn again and I'll see you... punished" Dolor said, her tone bland and yet harsh as Carne undid the restraints on Vash's legs and hands. Eldon walked over to the door, standing guard to ensure no foul play from Kot or Vash. Zetta watched this all whilst moving to another console that had the ship's jammer active. The many crew members of the ship stood in the halls, cabins and passages, going about their business checking the ship and moving storage around.

"First, don't forget you came onto MY ship. Not the other way around," Dolor said, her back to the others. Carne withdrew from Vash, her face straight with a hint of fear as to what Dolor meant, moving beside her captain. "Not many have the gall to come onto my ship and start a fire fight in its halls." Dolor's voice was still plain, yet a hint of anger was present. "In order to have come here and board a ship like ours, you must have known we were here. How?" Dolor asked, turning to face the two, "Answer that, and we can start the negotiations." Dolor began to walk forwards, Carne flicking a switch on a console, bringing up a small table, just higher than a few feet. Four stools were drawn to the table by Eldon as Brant stood still, watching Vash and Kot's movements. The Captain took her seat as Carne simply stood again beside Dolor rather than joining them at the table.

 

[Walker]

Dolor Cordis

Vash watched Carne closely. His hands and feet might be tied but his Vo was quite ready to kick in if he felt he was in danger. Kot didn't have quite as much ease of ability, but he was still quite happy to fight if need be. That was not the case, fortunately. Control of her crew seemed at least somewhat by fear, which both Kot and Vash noted, though Vash saw more use in other methods he understood its necessity. That, and not everyone knew how to manipulate brains as easily, so it was a rational decision.

Vash snorted slightly at her comment on him coming to her ship, "Don't bother justifying yourself. I don't care. You can't feign benevolence to me and even if you could, it wouldn't make much difference." he took in a breath as he listened to the rest, leaning his head to the side and crossing his arms. A grunt at the comment of starting a fire fight. Then came her next question and he cocked his head, "I'm always on the lookout for resources. Even corpses can provide some level of convenience to me. I wasn't really looking for you specifically, just roaming and even a ship low on power can come up on sensors, even an asteroid can afterall and people land on those all the time. Though the world below does hold interest to me, lots down there to research. Hence why it's worth bothering, we weren't exactly expecting you." he hummed as he looked at the stools, sitting down and crossing one leg over the other. Kot didn't move and Vash sighed, without looking at him, "You can sit if you want."
"I'm fine here." The Devaronian said simply. The two were very different in almost every way as far as personalities go. And Vash was one to talk a great deal more than his subordinates.
He shrugged, "If it wasn't obvious, I'm a force user. More interested in the creation and alteration of things though. Figured I'd make use of whatever remains were...well remaining here. Even a somewhat decayed sentient brain might very well be put to use so why not?"

 

[Dolor Cordis]

Walker

---

Having sat down on the stool listening to Vash retort every sentence she said, drove her more into rage. Yet, it was a Parley. She couldn't attack him unless they attacked first. Even though she was the 'Devil Queen' of pirates, she must still honor the code she followed. It brought some order to the insane chaos onboard her ship day in and day out. Hearing he was a Force Sensitive did interest her. She was going to ask about it, since she had only met one like him and... well, her Lightsaber was currently a trophy on the wall in her quarters.

But hearing how he was interested in Dathomir, that caused something to stir in her chest. The hidden pearl amulet began to softly glow below her black and red armor. She remembered a time when she was on the planet below. Being interested in the many species and traditions around the desolate place. Shaking herself internally, she tried to quell the rising memories. She was not that person anymore. SHE saw to that.

"Well, if its dead bodies you want to search, I can have one of my crew go down to our... waste of trophies," Dolor offered, she was at least trying to get Vash on her side, if at first she was quite hostile to them. Some of the groups of captive she had still in the far decks would suffice. Even if they weren't dead, Vash didn't have to know that. But, the captain kept the Force Sensitive in mind. Straightening in her place, Dolor spoke with a more formal tone. "I would like to negotiate the terms for this... discord of ours to end," Dolor stated, her eye set on Vash, the only one sitting. Carne looked at Kot with a stern gaze, but kept silent. She knew not to interrupt this. "I will give you something you want, aside from my crew, ship, tech or personal effects. But I can offer some data and rarer resources that we have from the planet below you hold interest in," She again offered, "If that to your liking, I'd only ask something from you as... fair trade." Carne knew what she would request. It was the only thing she asked of when a Parley was offered. If they refused this, then Dolor would have a hard time letting the both of them go; even if they had a way to destroy both their ship, parts of her captain's.

 

[Walker]

Vash tilted his head and smiled as she mentioned being able to send crew to get 'trophies.' Well, she wasn't against bargaining it seemed. Convenient, if a little less expected. A lot of people seemed so stubborn in his mind. Regardless, moving on. Negotiations. She could give him something, which he didn't doubt she had something of use to him, and he had to give something fair in return.

He leaned back thinking, it wasn't that he was trying to get around it. In fact, it was already becoming the simple matter of making deals that had profit. He believed she had some thing or things of value, data and unusual resources are both quite good, and any bodies she had could prove useful since that was what he came for anyway ultimately. But what if him, "I have no problem making deals, though depending on what you want, it could require we go elsewhere to obtain it. While my ship is well equipped, if you don't want medical equipment, common supplies, or credits, I have my doubts that it can provide much you can properly make use of. That or knowledge on biology or alchemy."

The Vran tapped his fingers slightly on the table in front of him, "If you're ever in a position where you need cannon fodder though, I could find a way to ensure you access to a rather unintelligent race I made. They'll eat nearly anything but each other, and are very aggressive and stupid. But they're also quite fast, strong, and numerous. That said, if you wanted to use them properly you'd need to have them properly trained. Without telepathy, sticking comms to their heads is a good idea. A rather...pitiful creation really. But they can serve their purpose at times." Talking about what he made was enjoyable. And he'd definitely shown them to pirates before, though, most of that time he was still the one controlling them. While he hadn't tested it, he wandered if naturally telepathic races would be able to find a way to control them more easily outside of himself. "At the moment that's mostly all I can think of, I have some contacts but they're all reletively unimpressive and mostly just serve as minor boosts a piece. Makes toppling the system very hard but still provides some credits."

Dolor Cordis

 

[Dolor Cordis]

Walker

---

Listening to the offers Walker made, it gave Dolor a sense of something she hadn't noticed in a while. But she shoved those thoughts down. Walker's offer of some more creatures under her command gave her an almost sadistic smile. He was on the right tracks, but not quite. When Walker was finished talking, Dolor said, with the same sinister smile on her face, a controlled gaze of what seemed to be desire. "If I give you some of my unwanted trophies, then all I ask is that you honor a sort of deal," Dolor's hands rested on the table, her smile turning grim, but not in a bad way. It was like if someone was offering the most prime product to a hungry, starved beast. Carne, her stare falling on Dolor, straightened herself. She knew Dolor was able to ask her typical 'deal'. She silently prayed that the two before them would honor it fully.

"I care not for Credits. In exchange for data, rare resources and some bodies for you to prod at in your spare time, I wish for you to bring me back something important to my ship." Her grin drew dark as she spoke what she wished for, "People." Her grin grew still more sinister as her slightly discolored teeth bared themselves to Vash and Kot. "You will go and come back to my ship in a week with..." Dolor thought for a moment, before saying with a venomous tone, "60 able bodied people to join my crew." Dolor sat back slightly, her grim becoming a grim smile again. "I will of course offer them a choice. And if they don't join, and your seven days are up, then you two will be staying on this ship with the rest of them for a long time." Carne looked at Dolor with a bit of fear. She knew what kind of things would happen to those that refused. A quick trip out an airlock or a blaster to the back was what awaited them. "Shall we shake on this accord?" Dolor said, holding out her left hand, waiting for Vash to take it in a settled agreement.

If Vash did take her hand, it would mean that the deal was set. She had done this to others. A mark of 'faith' in the deal that would be honored. A small trace of magick filled her body as she prepared to use the 'binding' she had learnt for decades of learning of the Night Sister's ways. The person honoring the deal will be marked, on their flesh through cloth and metal, with her mark. A faint brand of the horned skull in chains, that grew more darker and clearer with each passing hour, marking the time till they needed to return. If they didn't return, then the magick embedded in the mark would lead her right to them, to collect on her payment one way or another.

 

[Walker]

Again, she wanted him to honor a deal. But she kept delaying the details. He made a bit of a face as she mentioned she wanted people. Like someone who was offered iron ore for its refined version. On top of that, her time-slot and her number requirement caused his eyes to narrow. His Vo started becoming active but he didn't move yet. Though he did prepare a somewhat timer on one of the mines in the ship. There was much use in being able to control it at a distance.

She also tried to give these 60 a choice. Reducing his opinion of such a deal even further. He recognized Carne's fear, and he scoffed. "No." he said plainly, he could feel Kot tense. Ready to put the entire room in flames to suffocate or burn whoever remained inside. Vash shook his head, ready at any moment to move should he feel anyone reaching to point a blaster at him, or sense for a toxin or gas. "Why would 60 people alive even remotely compare to some bodies or a few crystals, even ones I haven't gotten yet. Their value to me is probably a dozen times what it is to you. Oh I could ensure their loyalty, not perhaps in a week. But sentient minds are easily manipulated with the right knowledge and equipment of how to do so. But that's a large number, especially for that time."

He groaned, every loose object becoming a potential weapon, or shield, in his mind, "And a week? You can only really expect that I'd fail at that endeavor. If you want a deal, make a fair deal as you claimed. Corpses and crystals are hardly equivalent to sixty in a week, even if failure wasn't a risk. Besides, my ships only got so fast of a hyperdrive and even traveling time can cause issues."

Vash stood up, moving and standing on the other end of the chair while giving him a view of the room before his gaze returned to Dolor. "Increased time and what you have to offer and it could be considered, along with taking out that weird extra bit at the end. Don't try and force this, I can set off the mines before your people can take a shot and then you can all suffocate, if the explosion doesn't kill you. Or I don't. I'll admit, I'm not in an ideal situation. Chances are either a good deal is made, or most of us in this room are going to be dead and everyones ship is going to float away in pieces. You got the drop on me last time, with my sword or not, that won't happen again."

His eyes remained on her without wavering. He was quite ready to destroy everything if it meant avoiding putting himself in a position where he couldn't study and grow. What was life without that? It was nothing. Death was a better alternative. Besides, his creations would live on. Kot would follow him, whatever the cost. He was, after-all, altered to believe in Vash as if he were his god unquestioning. Complete obedience, complete faith.

Dolor Cordis

 

[Dolor Cordis]

Walker

---

Seeing Vash's hostility in his words and refusal at her request for the deal to be fair, Dolor almost declared the parley off. She slowly lowered her hand, wanting it to go to her blaster. But, see what Vash had said, that and she didn't want her ship to be totaled, she calmed down. Taking her seat that she was hovering in, Dolor rested a single hand on the table, another on the area around her neckline. The Pearl was troubling her with its ethereal tendrils around her soul. "Fine," Dolor said after a bit, "Bring 20 people." Dolor knew the harshly decreased number would be an annoyance later on, but she had to at least keep Vash happy for now. "I'll also give you 12 days instead. Is that fair enough?" Dolor asked, her eyes staring intently at the man. He was harder to work with than the Night Sisters below all those years ago.

Carne, realizing that Vash had seen her small break of fear on her face, looked away. If her captain found out she might have just compromised the deal, she'd be in for it. "I'll get someone on the bodies to be given to Vash and his compatriot," Carne said, walking towards Eldon by the door. "Go down and gather enough of them to be sufficient," Carne ordered Eldon, who had a glare like a Rancor that had been shocked full of volts moments ago. But, given she was First Mate, he listened and left the room. Now, only 3 of the most loyal of her crew were there. Zetta, removing her eyes from the negotiations, went back to scanning the area around them and the planet, watching for other ships.

Dolor, raised her hand again, waiting for Vash to shake and 'seal' the deal. "Shall we make it official?" Dolor asked, a more mild mannered look about her.

 

[Walker]

Vash watched, ready to defend himself if need be. However, she didn't turn it off so quickly. She relented, reducing the number and the time. 12 days. That was more feasible, he started considering contacts. He had some possibilities. He could give them a demonstration of what could happen if they refused to ensure they ended up under the woman. It wasn't his job to make them stay loyal, just agree. And he knew how to make them more afraid of saying no than of jumping into Kamino's oceans.

He smiled and relaxed, "I suppose that may be acceptable. Long as you return my sword. Can keep the blaster if you want." he responded at her final question, he was ready to shake on it. As long as the answer to that was a simple yes. He didn't need someone here having that weapon unless they had something else to give him for it. Course, they could end up killing themselves if they figured out how to use it at all anyway. Or, even if they didn't.

But that wasn't his concern. He just didn't like his sword being in the hands of someone other than him or his chosen few. He wasn't completely relaxed, he was still waiting for someone to pull a blaster on him or try to sneak into his ship. But he wasn't acting as aggressive now.


Dolor Cordis