Junction Feast of Iron and Flame || SO/ME Junction of Omwat & Malachor V

[Naniti]

"I've never felt like this before, Lysander. It isn't like standing over a fallen adversary, or figuring out some archaic ability, or even unraveling some ancient puzzle. Those are exciting, but this... you..." Naniti exhaled slowly, softly. "You feel the same?" It was hard to put it all into words just as he'd tried earlier. It was so foreign to her, she feared it might intoxicate her as surely as drink or drugs. And yet somehow she wanted more of it.

Just a moment though? Naniti gazed into Lysander's eyes. He might be sophisticated, but perhaps a Togruta could help him get to the next level. "For as long as we want." The young woman spoke softly, but with the directness he'd come to expect. "You and me. Anywhere. Anytime. No conditions. No filters. One expectation: we do it together." There was the commanding edge to her words that an instructor might actually approve of. Perhaps even the arrogance to think they could rise above social expectations and academic restrictions regarding fraternization.

Why not? They were Sith weren't they? Passion. Strength. Freedom. All the hollow sentiments could be seized here and now. Individually they might be subject to whims of those stronger, but together they had more leverage. Little did she know this was often how alliances and growth occurred. Some from sheer convenience. Others from desire. But partnerships were made in due time even if instructors didn't go out of their way to talk about cooperation and acceptance.

The Togruta stretched up against him as he held her tight. "It can last longer than a single night. Once you show me how to dance properly, I'll have you back on that floor and I won't care who's watching." Again. If it hadn't embarassed Lysander this time that only meant a dance in the future was inevitable.

Lysander von Ascania

 

[Lysander von Ascania]

Naniti
​

He blinked slowly at her confession, feeling another pull of the pulse in his chest, the same one that flared earlier around her during their dance. The Sith understood it.. at least in pieces. Maybe not like the novels or holodramas he’d indulged in for years. But enough to know that what was before him was real. It wasn’t some duel, or a lesson, or some challenge to overcome. And somehow.. it demanded more attention than any of those.

“I do,” he finally admitted, wanting his words to be chosen with care, ”.. and somehow it’s like anything I’ve known. I don’t want it to end.”

His own admission was a ripple of something rare, something uncharted. A surrender of control.. though not reckless. It was dangerous, but.. somehow right, and necessary. The Sith’s torso tightened, which drew his focus inward, acknowledging the low hum of his own breath. Naniti’s directness was unexpected, far different from how other acolytes or apprentices addressed him, but it offered clarity and trust.

An inhale lifted his chest, the cool air brushing sharper against his skin. “Together.” Less a command than a choice freely made. “You’re entirely worth risking the rules for.”

Every syllable felt like a private pact, though fragile.. like their own rebellion against the universe. “You speak of it as if it’s simple,” he murmured with wonder woven through his voice. “As if we can just decide to stand together in a galaxy that enjoys pulling people apart.” A brief clasp of their fingers was meant to shed all doubt, a truth revealing he longed to stay.

When she reached up into him, bridging the last distance, the touch threatened to rewrite his rhythm. His hands answered, closing firmly around her waist, daring to hold them together as one. And somehow, the cold around them suddenly vanished. Her words slid right into where his discipline lived, warming just beneath his jaw. Even so, something bright broke through his visage, as her seriousness kindled life in him.

Lysander leaned in, his forehead lowering until it settled against hers. A touch.. a closeness he had never before offered. "I should warn you, Naniti, I don't lose challenges." His breath grazed her like a promise. "I'm not the type to let anyone take the lead without a fight."

Her mouth entranced him for a heartbeat, before losing himself once more in the endless blue of her gaze. A trace of joy sparked in the lines of his expression. "I stopped caring the moment you stepped into my arms tonight."

The Togruta had said for as long as they wanted, so he intended to test that theory, to savor it a little while longer.

 

[Naniti]

Naniti smiled up at Lysander as he was open to breaking the rules and indulging in the moment. Why shouldn't they? It was comfortable. Enjoyable. That was what a party like this was meant to be, right? A celebration. And right then the Togruta wanted to celebrate with Lysander.

"We can. We'll tear the galaxy apart first, if we have to." Why couldn't they just decide to oppose the galactic order? To step outside the rigid expectations of people consumed with their own petty squabbles and hatred to let people like them live. Wasn't that how they were better than the Jedi? They acknowledged their selves -- what they wanted -- and weren't afraid to pursue it. Naniti's blue eyes were wide as they stared up at Lysander; she was resolutely committed to crushing whatever stood between them. If not for this... this feeling that felt so good then what for?

"Yeah?" she breathed in turn. "Well, I'm a fighter." Lysander already had inklings of the sort of training she'd received. What she'd done to other students to emerge victorious in her Master's eyes. Whether she had to be in the lead or not didn't matter. He called it a challenge and staked his position; Naniti could only respond in resolving to participate in turn. What were they even challenging each other about? She didn't care. It was with him and that was enough.

"Lysander?" Naniti whispered his name softly. All thoughts of plans or witnesses had begun to evaporate as she stood there secured in his arms. Her hands wrapped up along his back to the backs of his shoulders. Their foreheads pressed together. Every worry. Every vision of the future that haunted her melted away in those moments together.

So warm. Naniti tried to rolled her head slightly and rise upward just a bit in order for their lips to touch. Blood reached her checks, but the Togruta -- if successfully -- wouldn't pull back the moment contact was made. Nor would she try to press harshly if there were no resistance. She didn't know what she was doing or wanted, but it felt nice. Another of those moments if she didn't claim she felt might slip away forever.

Lysander von Ascania

 

[Aerik Lechner]

WEARING: xxx | TAG: Irina Jesart | OPEN​

The celebration had settled into its rhythm again. Fires flickered in tall braziers along the courtyard, sending warm light across polished stone. Music rolled through the air from a group of musicians near the garden wall, steady and lively enough to draw laughter from the soldiers who had gathered in clusters. The scent of roasted meat drifted between the tables, mixing with the sharp sweetness of mead.

It felt alive in a way that reminded Aerik of home. On Stewjon, the nights after a hard season carried a similar sound. Voices rose without restraint. Cups clattered. Stories grew larger the longer the fires burned. There was honesty in it, even when surrounded by people who sharpened themselves for war.

Irina moved through that noise with practiced ease. It was clear she had spent much of the last years within Gerwald's command. The Legion hailed her with raised cups and quick grins. She answered each greeting without hesitation. Her confidence made her seem as if she had always belonged among them. Aerik watched as she launched a dinner roll at a man who deserved it, and the table roared with approval.

He found himself almost surprised by how easily she slipped into the moment. Five years apart, yet she moved as though the space between them had not existed at all.

As she approached, the din of celebration softened. Not fully, but enough that her presence settled into the space beside him like something familiar he had not realized he missed.

He took a slow drink before answering her question.

"Too many eyes above," he said, keeping his tone even. "I prefer it here."

He glanced at her, brief but deliberate. The firelight caught the edge of her dress, drawing a soft glow across her face. The sight stirred something he carried deep, something he did not trust himself to name. He looked away before the thought lingered.

"This is where the Legion gathers," he added quietly. "It feels real."

A chorus of voices rose from farther down the table. Someone had started a drinking contest, and the Legion reacted with the vigor Aerik remembered. They had always been loud. Proud. Whole. He had fought with them before Stewjon pulled him back into his own path, and their reaction to seeing him return had struck him harder than he let on.

They had missed him. He felt it in their greetings, in the strength of their grips, in the shouts calling him to join them again. It was grounding in a way he had not expected. He looked at Irina once more, softer this time. The pup let the fires warm the silence that settled after.

"I am glad you found your place among them."

The noise of the celebration pressed in again. But for Aerik, the moment felt separate from all of it. A pause in the chaos that felt almost like the nights he remembered from long before all the fighting.

He lifted his cup again and allowed himself a rare thought.

Tonight, he could breathe. And Irina's presence made it easier.

 

[Lysander von Ascania]

Naniti
​

Foreheads nestled close, little puffs of breath mingled, the cozy warmth that spilled from her banished the cool air. Naniti’s violet skin was soft beneath his brow.. a rare sliver of comfort in a galaxy and dark path that demanded constant violence, something rarely permitted to himself.. and it didn’t feel like weakness either. She reminded him that even in such harsh circumstances, there could be something worth protecting. A hum of satisfaction rose from Lysander at the closeness. It was no conquest.. or a claim, but privilege.

There was no hiding how much he liked what he experienced, her heartbeat against his, trusting him not to shatter this fragile balance between them. He too realized the rush in restraint, that simply letting the tension coil and holding her, without more, was intoxicating.

In their realm back home, danger and treachery were the only constants. Alliances could shift like the sands of Korriban, every encounter having potential consequences. Who was to say there weren’t others planning behind their backs already? That awareness sharpened the sweetness of the present.. knowing that nothing really promised them another moment like this. Every second was borrowed..

Lysander’s eyes never left hers, they couldn’t, with how they pulled him in while everything else faded away. There was warmth there too, a quieter flame. “We’ll carve our own path,” the Sith murmured, voice weaving through the night, “against anyone.. against everything. All of it. Let the galaxy try..” The thought didn’t bother him; her courage, her fire matching his own, made the moment feel rarer. And caught in a spell where everything suddenly aligned, all that mattered was now. Whatever he’d been trained for just fell away.. leaving only this.

From the first glance, from the spark of defiance in the training yard on Desevro, fighter was written all over her. That had drawn him in long before any confession tonight. His palms pressed against her waist, to map the closeness, to remind himself of that solid truth.

Soon, his name echoed through that shared space. "I know what you are, Naniti," he whispered back. "And I like it.. more than I expected."

Through the emerald haze he traced a line down her countenance, drinking in the contours of her cheek, the soft angle of her jaw. Each feature became impossible to look away from. He could’ve studied her endlessly.

At last, he leaned in, the first touch of their lips light, a cautious exploration, as if discovering a new language, a taste deeper than any battle adrenaline. The softness beneath his hands, the way she didn’t pull away, and it tugged at something he rarely allowed himself to acknowledge. Though encouraged by that greeting, he pulled back fractionally, letting the moment stretch.. space enough to breathe, enough to register his increased pulse. Every detail was alive, something he found himself not ready to release. Then, slowly, Lysander ventured deeper into their kiss, fully surrendering to the sensation, to her, so that he might better understand the rhythm to this new song.

 

[Lina Ovmar]

Tags: Darth Strosius Madrona A’Mia Varin Mortifer​

Lina contented herself with sipping at the wine as the conversation flowed regarding Varin's work on the Ashlan Temple before her gaze shifted back to A'mia who echoed her question, confirming not one but two future gatherings on Brosi. She hoped for invitations for both, she had also heard of the Covenant and was curious to make acquaintances with them.

When Strosius answered her question with a playful pull at her arm drawing her closer, she felt her heart jump. She offered no resistance, melting into that closeness just a little more. She let out a hum of appreciation, peering at him over the rim of her glass. “And what a fabulous Emperor you would be.” she purred, leaning into him just a little more. “Who knows what the future holds.”

She turned to look at A’Mia her head tilted. “You would be a fabulous Dark Councillor, A’Mia, my dear. I, however, would rather hug a Sarlacc than sit on the Dark Council. Too many people to please or agree with. Besides, I can hardly bend shadows to my will if I’m in the limelight. Although…” she paused, pensive for a moment “I suppose there is truth in the phrase ‘if you want a job done properly, do it yourself.’” she shrugged, taking another sip of wine, enjoying the flavour dancing across her tastebuds when Varin’s four legged companion joined them.

“Oh, hello!” she exclaimed excitedly, unhooking her arm from Lord Strosius’s and handing him her wine before she lowered herself to the Tuk’atta’s level. Reaching to scratch under her chin and behind her ears as her other hand ran along her flank.

”J'us tuti zo dhasias dridira. Tuti Varin sosûtari muri qutzi sosûti j'us?”

 

[Varin Mortifer]

Lady A’mia’s response pulled a quiet chuckle out of Ignati. It cut deep into the weave as if vibrating the fabric of the force like some insect caught in an arachnids web.

The boy certainly has his uses.

Varin listened as they spoke of the current newest members of The Dark Council. His finger gently tapped on the glass bottle he was still holding.

“I must be honest. One I see as an ally, another an adversary and the other is an unknown variable.”

He took a deep nerve wracking breath, politics was not really his strong suit, but it was something he had to start getting used to before he became an official ruler. He had to learn the ins and the outs, enemies and allies.

“King Caedes gave me a home after everything was taken from me, even put me into schooling. I owe him and Master Revna a debt I possibly could never repay. Lirka Ka however, is definitely one I would keep my eye on for the most part. She is a lot more tricky than it seems. Then there is Quinn Varanin, to me she is the unknown variable. I have little to no knowledge of her, but that in and of itself is reason for me to have yet another eye on her.”

His eyes met all three of them.

“Though I will say, if the three of you were in those seats as well, I would be a lot more comfortable.”

Amia’s suggestion pulled Varin’s attention to her first about a mate or even a beast master for Sinew.

“Well, truthfully, she has been imprinted on me since that night. Has not really left my side at all, so wherever I go she comes. If I deem it too dangerous for her she remains on the ship. There CC looks after her. It’s been working well so far.”

Sinew looked up at Lord Strosius, forked tongue lulling just out of the side of its maw, her breath coming out in pants and snorts as her tail end began thrashing about with excitement. She especially grew much more excited as Lady Ovmar knelt down beside her giving her scratches and attention. Leaning her weight into her and giving a toothful smile Sinew was eating up all of the attention. She spoke to her in the ancient tongue causing her to tilt her head while maintaining her lean.

Iw dukwtasadnu ji kirs qutzi sosûti ji. Ji tuti a isarja iw wim kaj, ji tuti rososûti noduhu zo diyina. Aij ji tsosûtaiyi zo wotwtiti rososûti ir ri tsatzi dyirmij.

He grinned down at the both of them before speaking again.

“She loves a good steak.”

As another waitress walked by he plucked some meat off of the plate and gently hand fed it to Sinew. Happily she ate from his palm leaving a slimy sticky mess behind.

“Yeah we gotta work on that last part though.”

Darth Strosius | Lina Ovmar | Madrona A’Mia | Lirka Ka | Quinn Varanin​

 

[Madrona A’Mia]

Jutrand
Palace
Head Of The Table
Outfit
Theme

Tags: Darth Strosius | Lina Ovmar | Varin Mortifer | Open

​

A'Mia noted the shift in Alisteri's tone, her new set of arms folding a bit in contemplation as she listened to the man answer their inquiry. A twinkle of amusement soon entered those large, blue-green eyes of hers as Lina responded.

"I accept," she answered Darth Strosius easily, "If your ascension occurs, know that I'll hold you to the offer of that particular appointment, dear Prophet. And thank you, Lina— you're quite right I think, that one must have a direct hand in the change they seek to see in the galaxy. I rather appreciate what I've seen of your methods for such though, direct but discreet action."

Her expression and tone remained mild, as if they were discussing the weather rather than cutthroat politics, but her words seemed completely without jest or guile. In fact, A'Mia foresaw blossoming opportunities to grow stronger bonds with both Alisteri and Lina, both of whom she valued working closely with because of compatible scientific and sorcery interests. The arboreal woman watched with some bemusement as Lina pressed her glass into Darth Strosius' hands and became preoccupied with Varin's tuk'ata. A'Mia used the opportunity to glide a bit closer to Alisteri, shouldering up companionably beside the arm opposite where Lina had just been and tilting her head toward's his to murmur.

"The two of you are a lovely pair," the words were fainter even than a whisper but she knew his sensitive ears would pick it up, "You compliment each other well."

It was just a moment, covered somewhat by Lina and Varin focused on Sinew, but the neti gave a genuine sidelong smile before continuing in a conversational tone meant for everyone. A'Mia chose to ignore the chuckling remark by Ignati, instead rewarding Varin's polite observations and responses with the direct engagement he deserved more than the beast that lurked within him.

" Darth Caedes has a particular fondness for shepherding the youth," A'Mia affirmed sagely, "And you've experienced for yourself what a boon his leadership is. I wonder though if you'll humor a bit of a philosophical question outside of academic hours, Varin. When presented with an unknown variable, as exemplified by the Princess, and a known threat, such as Lirka— which deserves more of your attention or energy in the interest of strategy, were you attempting to step into the same sphere of influence as those figures?"

The question was directed at the student, but A'Mia was truthfully posing it to them all. Curious to know how on the mark she might be about how each of them would handle the hypothetical scenario posed. Swirling the last of the cider in her glass, A'Mia awaited their thoughts or the next topic that might be suggested instead.

 

[Irina Jesart]

Tags: Aerik Lechner | Open​

Irina's eyes flicked upwards to the balcony in a brief motion as he mentioned there were too many eyes. She couldn't see Gerwald watching her, but that didn't mean he wasn't. She let out a hum of agreement as she sipped the mead in her hand.

"It is real." she confirmed softly, turning her gaze over them. "There's no hidden agendas or ambitions. They are just men and women who fight and die for the Order because they believe in it. Whereas up there is like reliving a nightmare of underhanded insults and false smiles."

She sighed heavily and closed her eyes, letting the noise of the legion wash over her, cherishing the rare moment where they could be together. She opened her eyes as the volume jumped, shaking her head at the drinking competition as she felt his eyes on her face, shifting her own to meet them, feeling her heart do that irritating little jump. A soft smile tugged at the edges of her mouth.

For a moment, they were not at a celebration, but instead beneath the tree in the centre of the maze. She lowered her gaze, smiling as she brought her own mug to her lips. Wondering if he thought of those nights as often as she did.

"They made it easy." she replied with a shrug. "It was both utterly terrifying and refreshing. After everything…" she trailed off, not needing to go into detail about her home, or about the way the academy pitted them against each other.

 

[Darth Strosius]

​

Tags: Lina Ovmar / Madrona A’Mia / Trayze Tesar / Varin Mortifer / Open!
--------------------------------------------

The moment that Darth Strosius felt Lady Ovmar press against His side He rather quickly realized that He had made a grave error. One only reinforced by her purred remark which made His legs feel weak and His "wings" flare to life for a moment before He reined them in. Of all the times for His composure to snap this was decidedly one of the worst ones, not only were they in public but Lady Madrona and young Varin were standing right there in front of them!

If His inner thoughts hadn't been driven to a stuttering halt by Lady Ovmar leaning into Him then He'd already be considering methods of paying her back for this embarrassment. But such considerations could be made later when He wasn't fighting off a shudder at how close she had gotten. He could barely even follow along with the further discussion of the Dark Council, both for His proposed appointments and the existing ones.

Much to His relief, and admittedly disappointment, however the arrival of Sinew finally detached Lady Ovmar from His side and offered Him some reprieve. The masked man glanced down at the glass which had been thrust into His free hand and silently looked between it and Lina for a few moments before shrugging and accepting His fate. Unfortunately any notion of the tension in His form letting up was dismissed outright when Lady Madrona took up the spot next to Him in Lina's stead.

Her remark drew a noise best described as a choked gasp from the masked man, complete with a full body twitch that very nearly resulted in the spillage of the wine glass were it not for His own quick reflexes in rebalancing the beverage. The smile that adorned the Neti's features was met with a hidden glare from behind His visor, as well as the thankfully concealed flush of His own visage. "Not another word." He hissed in a similarly low tone so as to not arouse attention, although He knew that the request was likely futile.

He could only imagine what sort of ideas might have been inspired with the devious mind of Lady Madrona, and He had a sinking feeling that He'd become privy to more than one of them in due time. Thankfully Varin's commentary on the newest councilors saved Him from enduring any more of her comments for the moment. He'd have to find a way to discreetly reward the Acolyte later on for his and his pet's service to warding off the dual threats of the ladies at His side.

At the question that Lady Madrona posed He couldn't help but scoff, dismissing it with a shake of His head. "Unknown variable? Please, what is there to know about one such as her?" There was no hiding the genuine disgust and vitriol in His words, not that He bothered attempting to. "Quinn and Lirka are the same in regards to their council appointments. Cowardly puppets set in place so that those pulling their strings can avoid criticism and backlash far easier while still retaining power and influence. At least the Kainate's puppet can actually fight someone, aside from that there is no difference worthy of note where they positions as threats are concerned. Forget them, aim for the hand that guides them instead."

 

[Lina Ovmar]

Tags: Darth Strosius Madrona A’Mia Varin Mortifer​

Lina didn't miss any of it, not the way he went rigid beneath her grasp, nor the quiet intake of breath at her purr and the flaring of his wings. She took it all in with a wry smile and stored it away for later use. Allowing the conversation to continue above her as Sinew leaned on her, earning more attention. Her gaze lifted with an approving smile at Varin answered her High Sith, pleased that Revna had passed on her lessons.

“There is a breeding pair that patrol the caves beneath my home. Their pack is ever growing. If ever you have a need for a mate or pup for her, I can obtain one without the need for slaughter.”

Giving the tuk'atta a final pat she rose as A'mia asked her question. She retrieved her glass from Strosius, smirking slightly at the ire in his tone where the princess was concerned. She wondered idly what she had done to earn such hatred. “A puppet string is not so strong. It's possible to turn someone else's puppet to your own use.” That was of course if Quinn was even a puppet as he claimed. She knew from personal experience that Strosius was quick to lay labels without further consideration.

She had been meaning to make contact with the princess, more out of curiosity than anything else, but to voice that now was likely to stain the mood between her and Strosius and she was rather enjoying his temperament this evening. Her hand idly found his, lacing her fingers through his and she sipped her wine pondering the question.

“In the interest of strategy, it is always better to know all variables before acting. An unknown has the potential to make or break you. Lirka has made her position clear, she is an enemy. Quinn has the potential to be either friend or foe.” She gave a small smile. “Well, to most of us anyway. I suspect she despises you just as much as you do her.”

 

[Varin Mortifer]

Whatever these women were doing to Him seemed to have a stirring and discomforting effect on Lord Strosius. He could tell by the slight shift in movements, the twitch of the wings. Varin had gotten quite good at reading people. Lina's offer for a tuk'atta mate pulled Varin's attention right back as Sinew sat curled up between his feet and began relaxing.

“You have a local pack near your home? And they haven't tried to ambush you? I can't say I have had the same experience. But I would gladly take a suitable mate for Sinew when she has come of age.”

His smirk grew to a grin as he thought about having more hounds. He had quickly grown fond of Tuk'atta. In fact, he may have to visit the prior pack that had challenged him. Try to study their mannerisms and behaviors better.

A'mia's question seemed to have woken something up within Lord Strosius. Whoever Lady Varanin was, seemed to really rile up the Sith Lord. It was pure venom that was spewed forth. But the young apprentice would not allow that to taint his opinion. Words of others' mouths tend to have bias. He would rather witness it for himself.

He paused for a moment, gathering his words.

“An unknown variable is as dangerous as an enemy. Both require a certain type of attention, luckily I was blessed with two eyes, professor. I would prefer to keep an eye on both. Should any of them make a move, I will see it.”

He looked down at the glass bottle in his hand as he gently ran his finger along the rim.

“Though, if I did have to pick one. It would depend on how much I knew my known enemy. If I am familiar with them then I could afford to take my eye off of them to keep an eye on the unknown until it was known.”

He gave her a small smile.

“But I do not know Lirka all that well besides she's an enemy so both get equal watch.”

He pulled the bottle to his lips taking a slow sip of the alcohol. The burn jolted his senses slightly, causing him to have a small involuntary twitch.

“Apologies, I'm still new at politics.”

He chuckled lightly as he pat Sinews side.

Darth Strosius | Madrona A’Mia | Lina Ovmar​

 

[Aerik Lechner]

WEARING: xxx | TAG: Irina Jesart | OPEN​

The Legion’s noise rose and fell in a familiar pattern. Tankards clattered against the tables. Someone shouted across the courtyard for another round. A group near the fountain attempted a song with more enthusiasm than skill. Fires cast long shadows across the stone and the scent of sweet mead hung heavy in the warm air.

Irina’s presence settled beside him as if the chaos around them had parted to make room. He felt her relax into the moment, letting the tension that clung to the balcony fall away. It suited her. The soldiers welcomed her easily, not because she led them, but because she fought with them. Aerik watched her expression soften as she listened to the sounds of the celebration. It struck him again how naturally she blended into places that carried real heat and real noise.

She looked toward him. He felt the shift before he met her eyes. The small smile she gave him carried a weight he remembered from the academy and from nights beneath the maze tree. Something inside him answered it before he could shut it down.

When she spoke of the Legion and the difference between the terrace above and the courtyard below, he nodded once.

“It is honest. They are who they are here.”

He shifted his gaze toward the crowd so she would not see too much in his face. The Legion was not his to lead and had never been his to command, yet their presence felt familiar. He had trained beside some of them before life moved him down a different path. Their cheers and their unrestrained laughter stirred something steady in him. It felt almost like coming home.

Her words about her past drifted off. He did not need her to finish them.

“You earned their respect, not because of who you serve. Because of how you carry yourself.”

His tone remained even, without embellishment. He meant it. She had never needed rank or title to hold her ground. Irina had done that long before Gerwald claimed her as a student.

He let a moment pass before speaking again.

“You look comfortable with them. They seem to trust you.”

He took a drink, letting the warmth spread through his chest. Someone at the far end of the table toppled backward off a bench, and the surrounding soldiers erupted in a roar of amusement.

Aerik watched the scene with a faint exhale that might have been the beginning of a smile if he allowed it.

“It is good to see you like this,” he said, low enough that only she would hear. “Not carrying everything alone.”

His eyes stayed on the fire as he said it. Looking at her while speaking the words felt like giving away too much.

Aerik looked back at Irina.

“You learned their songs yet? Time we get this party a little more loud… hmm?”

 

[Irina Jesart]

Tags: Aerik Lechner​

The quiet words struck at something within her chest. She carried nothing alone, because there was nothing left to carry. she'd burned it all away in one way or another. Her life had become about two things, the fight, and doing everything in her power to make sure she earned the right to be Gerwald's apprentice. He had given her a second chance, and for that, she owed him everything.

She owed Aerik, everything.

Her hand moved, coming to rest on his as her own gaze found the fire. "My only regret in all of it, was having to leave you." she replied just as softly. She gave his hand a squeeze, before lifting hers away and taking a long drink. Hoping to force the feelings stirring within down. His question drew a chuckle as she met his gaze with a sheepish grin.

"I know a couple, but I'm not much of a singer. I contribute...in my own way." she set her tankard down and turned her attention to the fire, her hands moving to bend and shape it.

It flared rising higher at her command before settling again, shapes curling away from the main body, swirling into the unmistakable shape of the Death Star. It rose higher above the fire, drawing attention of the others. Without warning, the Death star fireballs exploded, showering the courtyard with embers that burned out before they hit the ground, many of the legion shouting in approval.

 

[Madrona A’Mia]

Jutrand
Palace
Head Of The Table
Outfit
Theme

Tags: Darth Strosius | Lina Ovmar | Varin Mortifer | Open

​

Finely carved eyebrows rose in playful surprise at the vehemence with which Alisteri responded. The exchange left her feeling a bit light and bubbly, which was an altogether novel and interesting experience. She knew for certain it wasn't the cider she'd imbibed in, as alcohol had a hydrating and refreshing effect on many botanicals rather than acting as an intoxicant. The way that the Orchid Core fluttered further confirmed that whatever had happened was indeed emotional.

Interesting.

The neti listened with a mild expression as Darth Strosius answered the political hypothetical in a completely unsurprising manner. She nodded at Lina's thoughtful offer of access to tuk'ata pups— A'Mia had already advised at the wisdom of such, given her knowledge of Sithspawn husbandry.

"Additionally, Varin, you are most welcome to train her in the wilds of Brosi. There are more biomes and environs with which to hone her than that which you can access upon Korriban."

Lady Ovmar made some excellent points to the hypothetical at hand, and A'Mia turned her face to regard Varin once more as the young man offered his opinion. Her attention was somewhat split, registering to way Alisteri responded to renewed closeness with Lina whilst also musing over the topic of conversation. Mischief animated her and she leaned away with languid grace to place her now emptied glass upon a passing tray. When she returned to her lean against the Prophet, she hooked a hand gently into the crook of his arm as she'd done a few times before, but never before with such certainty that it was bound to earn an amusing reaction.

"Never apologize idly, Varin. You shared your thoughts when asked and provided reason enough. Politeness has its place of course, but only insofar as it is rational."

She tilted her head to regard both Alisteri and Lina sidelong before continuing.

"I'm of a similar mind as Lina and the young apprentice here— though it begs another question, how does one feel certain a variable is understood to a high degree of certainty? This is where I have chided Darth Strosius in the past, to claim knowledge, to espouse absolute certainty with little to no data to speak of. That said, I can admit my value for such things are rather clinical and so often I hold myself to a standard that requires I interact with a great number of individuals I otherwise might not. All in the name of knowledge of course, but not everyone has the time or temperament for such things."

It was as vague as it was full of implication. The woman was enjoying herself though and she truly did appreciate the way that conversation was deepening her understanding of the minds of her companions.

 

[Darth Strosius]

​

Tags: Lina Ovmar / Madrona A’Mia / Trayze Tesar / Varin Mortifer / Open!
--------------------------------------------

The mention of there being a pair of Sinew's kindred around Lady Ovmar's abode wasn't too surprising, if anything they were among the least lethal of the denizens there. Herself included of course. That young Varin had seemingly run afoul of some such hounds in the past similarly wasn't too shocking. They were rather deadly creatures when wild and untamed and even when paired with a master their capabilities for violence only increased.
What did slightly catch Him off guard somewhat was Lady Ovmar's remark about puppets and their strings, earning a scoff and what must have a been a roll of His eyes beneath His mask. Whatever biting rebuttal that Darth Strosius was undoubtedly about to loose faltered into silence before it began when her fingers joined His newly freed ones, instead choosing to simply hold His words for a moment as she continued so that He could silently admire the contact. Even if He did find Himself fixing her smile with an unamused expression because of it.

"You're serious, aren't you?" His rather deadpan tone was cut short somewhat at the little follow-up about Quinn sharing His ire and disdain which earned a chuckle. Darth Strosius highly doubted that any could match the level at which He despised anyone, but the thought was certainly entertaining. Varin was wise enough to be cautious of that which he didn't know, although similarly suspicious of that which he might already think he knew well enough.

It was a fitting and reliable angle of approach to be sure. A similar sort of mindset had kept Him alive for many long years indeed, thankfully He had no use of it anymore. He knew exactly who His foes were and they only grew in number by the day. Speaking of growing problems, the masked man was startled by the sudden presence of Lady Madrona settled into the crook of His other arm. His masked gaze was cast from one side to the other in rapid succession in what must have been surprise, confusion, and a measure of disbelief. He was beset on both sides it seemed.

No matter, He had handled similar odds before. Albeit not quite as perilous as two ladies being so close, but He would persevere. At least until the Acolyte had turned away and couldn't see any losses of composure that He allowed Himself. The Neti's own response wove into a question that thankfully managed to keep Darth Strosius level headed, relatively speaking at least, given that it was one of His favorite topics. Target identification.

"Lady Madrona, with all due respect, I've been dealing with this same den of vile serpents for decades. There is little about them that I'm not certain about." The masked man tilted His head to regard Lady Ovmar then. "Such as the fact that none of their servants or puppets will ever bite the hand that feeds them. Especially not when she just got the highest appointment that she could ever hope for due to her incessant groveling. There is nothing that you can offer to tempt the minions of the powers-that-be, and such minions are too easily replaceable to be worthy of particular concern."

He paused and gestured towards the head of the table but not at any one person seemingly. "Take the other appointment, Lirka. Whether it be a seat on the Dark Council or her spot at the head of a Legion, she doesn't matter. She's just a brute, a pawn. She did nothing to gain such positions, they were granted to her due to convenience. Carnifex and Prazutis are the only ones that matter in that regard, they control the Third Legion and a spot on the Council as Lirka would never act against their wishes or interests. Therefore you needn't be concerned with her for anything more than what direct violence she can inflict upon you, those that hold her leash should be the focus."

 

[Aerik Lechner]

WEARING: xxx | TAG: Irina Jesart | OPEN​

Her hand closed around his, and the noise around them thinned. Aerik held still, unsure of what the moment meant or what she expected from him. The pressure in his chest was familiar, although he had not felt it in years. He did not withdraw, but he did not lean toward her either. He simply stayed where he was and let the feeling pass through him.

Her words unsettled him more than he cared to admit. He had not thought he would hear them again. He had forced himself to accept her absence, and the years that followed left little room to sort through anything else. His life shifted too often. One duty replaced another. Every step forward meant leaving something behind.

He missed her. That truth settled quietly, and he kept it to himself.

“I did not want you to go,” he said quietly. “I knew you had to.”

The words were plain, but they carried more honesty than he intended to reveal. He watched the fire rather than her face. He needed the steadiness of the flames while he found his footing again.

When she pulled her hand away, the absence left a faint ache. He hid it well.

Her attempt to change the mood helped him breathe again. The admission about singing almost drew a real reaction from him, something small that he smothered before it formed. He took a sip of his drink and let the warmth settle.

“You always found a way to be noticed,” he said, quiet and even.

The fire rose at her command. Flames twisted into shape, bending into a sphere that lifted above the courtyard. Its glow reflected along the faces of the Legion. When it exploded into harmless embers, the cheers that followed rolled through the space like a wave. Aerik looked at her again. There was strength in her expression, but there was a softness too. Both hit him harder than the spectacle she had created.

“You have not changed as much as I thought you might. I am glad.”

He set his cup down. The weight in his chest eased. It had been hard at the academy after she left, and the pup found himself separated from his brother and sister. They had never made it back into the same cohort, and since then, Darth Prazutis had come to take the oldest of the Lechner triplets as his apprentice. It was an odd twist of fate, and why Gerwald had allowed it, Aerik still wondered. Was he just a piece in the game between the two cosmic powers? Was the his father avoiding any claim of nepotism by allowing the Kainites to take him on?

It didn't matter. Aerik was going to enjoy the night.

"Do it again... this time... a wolf. I want to see who notices."

 

[Naamino Zuukamano]

Outfit
Companions: Leshanna Dromar | Haro Aven

​

Spurred on by duty and immense care, Naami immediately steered their trio to one of the long feast tables. Using his size and reach, the big zabrak soon had a plate neatly stacked with samples from every dish within reach. The care with which he prepared it made it clear the plate was for Lesh and soon he held it out for her, willing to hold it for her while she ate or to hand it off. Only when her needs were properly tended to, did the diligent zabrak make his own plate up.

Those icy eyes remained alert, a soldier’s preparedness was hard to shake even when surrounded by finery and festivities. Soon though, the antics of his buddy Haro and the way their radiant girlfriend lit up the whole place, had Naami smiling and enjoying himself. Tension started to ease out of his shoulders and the drinks that Haro picked for them all was doing good work to that end as well. It was helpful that the ambiance of the entire event lent itself to finery and frivolity.

After they were certain that Lesh had generally enjoyed her fill, at least for the time being, and once a second round of libations was well under way, Naami looked slyly to his buddy. They had a way these days of communicating with eye contact alone, but the military hand signs they used in the field were also helpful. The zabrak seemed to be gauging if Haro was ready to show off some of the fancy footwork they’d practiced.

Once reassured that his buddy was ready, Naamino turned to Leshanna— awestruck again by just how radiant she was. Sweeping his arm out so the cloak on his shoulders billowed a bit, he bowed to her. Taking her hand as he rose, the man brought the top of it to his lips for a soft kiss before asking in a rumbling baritone.

”May we have this dance? The two of us would love to do your beauty and grace some justice out there. Our fancy footwork isn’t just for fighting.”

His voice was confident and self assured but the words were also meant to soothe his internal nervousness as much as it was to charm Lesh. Without pause, at her acquiescence the big zabrak turned to guide them all to the dance floor.

It was there that perhaps the biggest surprise of the night occurred, when it became clear to Leshanna that her boys had somewhat rehearsed a dance sequence wherein they passed her effortlessly between them. Hints of playful competitive spirit sparked up between their glances, but the overall energy between them was undoubtedly loving collaboration. All with Leshanna at the center of their attention.

 

[Haro Aven]

​

LOCATION: OUTER RIM TERRITORIES > GRUMANI SECTOR > JUTRAND SYSTEM > JUTRAND > SITH ORDER IMPERIAL PALACE​

EQUIPMENT: FORMAL ATTIRE​

OBJECTIVE: LEAVE IT ALL ON DANCE FLOOR WITH THE TRIO​

COMPANIONS: Leshanna Dromar | Naamino Zuukamano ​

"You heard the lady! Hors d'oeuvres and libations are in order. We mus'nt allow for such radiance to be plagued by hunger and thirst," Haro declared, staying in his nobleman character, spine stiff and chin raised as he fell into step beside their girlfriend again and placed her hand on his arm. Then he leaned in conspiratorially, speaking loud enough for only his companions to hear.

"Worry not, fairest maiden. Naami will duel any Sith Lord or Mandalorian who dares stand between us and satisfying your needs." He continued, mischief twinkling behind his crystalline gaze as it rose to meet the Zabrak's.

"Isn't that right, buddy?" He grinned innocently, returning to his normal voice.

While Naami diligently procured a platter of food for Leshanna, Haro brought her a drink, making certain that it had a sweet fruity pallet as he knew that was her favorite. Only after she had what she needed did he go back for drinks for himself and Naami, choosing something more citrus forward for his buddy and whatever was sweetest for himself.

Haro gladly entertained his companions with spirited conversation and effortless banter as he often did when they were together while they all indulged in the decadence the Imperial Palace had to offer. Woven into his chatter were seemingly idle curiosities about the different attendees—who they were, what they represented, and if the other two knew anything about their role here tonight—more for the sake of gossip then anything else, or at least that's what he implied.

By the time Haro caught Naami's pointed look, he was more than ready to move, already showing the signs of restless fidgeting he often did when he was idle for too long. Yet, he remained patient a moment longer, giving Naami a slight nod of encouragement to make the first move.

Haro grinned wide at the Zabrak's decidedly theatrical show of asking Leshanna for a dance on both their behalves, then stepped up close to her and placed a hand gently on her low back to guide her toward the dance floor as Naami led the way. Her boys lavished her in attention as they gleefully played out their practiced steps, swaying and twirling to the music of the night, becoming increasingly competitive with more challenging dips and lifts as the songs crescendoed, all in the spirit of making sure their girlfriend felt like she was the center of their galaxy.​

 

[Lina Ovmar]

Tags: Madrona A’Mia Varin Mortifer Darth Strosius​

Lina smiled at Varin's questions regarding the pack near her home. They were one of the more natural defences that kept unwanted visitors from her little hideaway. "Oh they certainly did when I first staked my claim, as is their nature, but we have long since reached an understanding and a relationship that is mutually beneficial. They are highly intelligent creatures, once they understand that you are not a threat to their continued existence they are easy to reason with."

She smiled down at Sinew, resting easily between Varin's feet. Their bond obviously ran deep, but A'Mia was right that she would need a companion of her own. By the looks of her, she would not be far off becoming of age. Lina made a mental note to speak with the pack when she returned home.

Strosius's deadpan tone drew a smile from her, but she did not answer him. Yes, she was absolutely serious that Quinn could become an ally, it was simply a matter of understanding her goals and whether they would align with her own.

As A'Mia took her place on Strosius' other arm, Lina smiled into her glass as he snapped his gaze between the two of them, clearly baffled by the attention he was receiving. She suspected that the neti was enjoying herself just as much as she was.

Finishing her wine, she set it on the passing tray with A'Mia's and listened to both his and A'Mia's argument carefully. "On Lirka, we can agree, she is not unique, her particular breed of person has been carbon copied throughout the Kainites ranks and I share your distaste for them. Quinn however…she is unique, if you understand her heritage and combine it with her upbringing…" Lina looked up at Strosius. "Even if you think you know what is underneath it, I would still like to turn that rock over."