Faction Frozen in Time || Sith Order

[Fatine von Ascania]

There it was, that little hint of warmth bleeding through the cracks in his expression - just before Ace hardened his face into an unreadable mask.

Fatine beamed. She'd made it her personal, private mission to tease those moments of sincerity from him.

"Golden Boy?" She snorted through a peal of laughter. "Why's he called that? Because of his fancy hair?"

While her family hadn't been entirely defined by them, golden locks had become something of an Ascanian symbol. Fatine always styled her dark curls so they'd stood out as much as possible. "He's not the boss of me," she huffed. As it stood, no one really was. Her father was dead. Her older brothers were either playing soldier or Sith, and her elder sister was too preoccupied by whatever was going on in the Republic.

In being lonely, she'd found another stage. Acier, despite his quiet nature, made her feel seen.

The tests of skill felt just as frigid, but fortunately they weren't as eerie as the statues.

"I've been practicing, you know." Fatine clicked her tongue, the corners of her lips drawing up in a smug little smile. "I can - oooh, is that axe throwing?"

Far too gleeful for one surrounded by so many Sith, the young lady removed her hold on Ace's arm and pranced her way toward the collections small axes embedded into the face of a log. A series of targets had been placed further down the field.

Fatine wrapped her fingers around the handle of an axe, and tugged - then, she pulled with both hands. A grunt sounded from the back of her throat as she strained for a few moments, before relinquishing her grip and stumbling back.

"That's not faaaair," she pouted. A pointed glance was sent Ace's way, but it wasn't clear whether or not she'd been using her full strength.

Acier Moonbound

 

[Srina Talon]

Allies: Darth Strosius | Madrona A’Mia | Lina Ovmar
Location: Old Tree [Near Alisteri Holding Up a Pillar]

____________________________________________________

The bark at her back was rough, pale with frost, and a little itchy through the fabric of her clothing. The tree she leaned on was strong, even though it was barren for the winter, and she took solace beneath large branches and the quiet history that hummed from it. Srina had arrived, seemingly, from thin air—Hidden in its shadow. Her white cloak was drawn up around her shoulders, hood raised, yet not sealed. Long strands of white-gold hair slipped free, catching the ambient light, eye-catching, even though she very well might have blended in with the scenery.

Sith Runes were etched fine and deliberate with silvery alchemized thread along the seams of her clothing. They were sigils of occlusion, suppression, and quiet. They muted the storm that rolled in her being to a point that it was barely noticeable…But they didn't erase it. Couldn't. She had spent too much time wrapped within the corruption the Darkside provided, cultivating it, turning it into a strength none could touch or take. At best? She could make it seem like something else.

Less.

Jasmine and petrichor lingered in the air regardless, subtle, with the snowfall and her presence became a pressure that would eventually be picked up, likely, by one Alisteri Haxim. She was close enough to step away from her tall tree, reach around the pillar, and touch him, but he was entirely entranced by something in the distance. Srina's gaze moved first to Madrona A’Mia , then to Lina Ovmar , and then lastly, back toward the masked figure. She did not hurry. She rarely did.

Instead…She watched.

There was a geometry to the three of them now. Glances exchanged, posture changing, with an odd orbit that was fascinating. It was predictable, human, but the eternally youthful Darth Strosius had not given her the impression he was capable of forming this type of open attachment upon their last meeting. He had even been wrathful toward the man who saved his life. Srina knew he had a certain fondness, deep down, for his people …But felt like an anomaly.

Interesting.

Her weight shifted, and the tree creaked faintly, as if acknowledging her presence. She spoke without turning her head…Eyes focused on the two women who seemed to be enjoying themselves immensely at the much broodier Sith Lords' expense.

"I met Lady Revna this way….With a dance…"

It was a fond memory, oddly enough. Srina tended to loathe large parties because she was always expected to perform. Perfection was not enough. Even though Darth Empyrean had been one of the most feared men in the galaxy, still, she was bound by duty and protocol. Much of it she threw to the wayside, such as dancing openly with an apprentice of a faction that typically hated the crown and all that it stood for. But…It hadn't been about appeasing the Sepulchral.

The reality was much simpler than that.

Srina had seen Revna Marr through a sea of faces and had been taken in by her bravery. Everyone else looked down. Away, while she danced with the Corpse King. Revna watched, wide-eyed and curious. It was odd that it was such a rare thing in a bright mind. Curiosity. Untarnished and unburdened by a life that had failed her, by people that were surrounded by darkness so thick it was touchable. She knew…Alisteri Haxmin, likely, thought her to be a monster, despite their last meeting. His secrets kept.

He was right.

Her eyes eventually slid toward Darth Strosius again, pale and reflective from beneath a furred hood. She seemed so delicate, made of glass, and something equally fragile with a backdrop of snow, snow, and more snow. She didn't shiver in the cold; unknown to most, it was the chosen element of House Talon. The chill of winter…Just didn't bother her. Not outwardly, anyway.

"Won't you join them?"

 

[Naniti]

Naniti poked Lysander in the chest. "That's right, we do; so don't tell me to get clear and take on all the burden alone." There were several ways to look at what he'd said, but one that jumped out is he might be trying a bit too hard to protect her. The Togruta didn't want to be protected. Not at the cost of Lysander's life. That was precisely why she trained so hard -- enough that it was how they'd first met. On Edic Bar being told to go ahead and leave him to deal with that Cat woman... it'd been the only way to convince him to hurry. Someone had to haul the Chiss away, and if they waited until the Jedi was pacified to do so they wouldn't have made it to the ship. Didn't mean she'd liked it.

The poke turned into a smoothing of the front of his clothing. "What I think... is that I like being around you, Lysander. Even when we aren't fighting. So, if you run off on any adventures and there's room for one more, you will invite me." The demand softened slightly as she added in a softer tone, "Won't you?" Any excuse to get away with him sounded pleasant. The Academy's lackluster amenities didn't even matter at that point.

As the sleigh reached the peak, Naniti's blue eyes looked up at Lysander with expectation. Not because she wanted to fight more people or endure more trials, but because he'd be there and they could suffer through it together. They'd get stronger. Then tackle even more challenges. But they'd do it together. And really... that didn't sound so bad. As a Sith used to thinking of dealing with things alone. After all, if they grew stronger together than she'd still be stronger on her own; to fight and survive to get back to him. There was a certain sense to it.

Lysander von Ascania

 

[Acier Moonbound]

Location: [Redacted]

Equipment:
Winter Outfit | Lightsaber | Cybernetic Arm

Ace huffed a quiet laugh at that, shaking his head once.

"Golden Boy." He repeated, like the name was self-explanatory. "Yeah. Kind of comes with being that guy at the Academy. Everyone watching. Everyone expecting him to be impressive."

His eyes flicked to her then, catching the way she brushed off his question so easily.

He's not the boss of me.

Something in Ace loosened at that. Relief. She said it without heat, without defiance. Just fact. She chose where she stood. Always had. It made him like her more than he probably should've.

Then he watched as she struggled with the axe. His lips pressed together, before stepping in. Ace reached past her, hand closing around the handle, and gave it a single, controlled pull. The blade came free with a sharp crack, ice and splinters scattering against the snow. He turned and offered it back to her, handle first.

"Here." He said lightly. "Didn't want it thinking it beat you."

His mouth curved as he nodded toward the targets downrange.

"I'm really hoping your throw's better than your brother's. Last time I saw him try this, he screwed up three in a row." He added, dry amusement threading his voice. "No pressure or anything."

She'd said she'd been practicing. Now was the time to put her credits where her mouth was. Although, he had no doubt in her.

Ace stepped aside, giving her a clear lane... and his full attention.

Fatine von Ascania​

 

[Irina Jesart]

Wearing: XXX
Tags: Aerik Lechner Ellissanthia​

Something was off, Irina couldn’t place her finger on what, but Aerik did not seem right. She had seen him rigid because their surroundings demanded a certain aspect of them be seen, but this stiffness was different, it was in the small movements, the roll of the shoulders, the tiny adjustment of his feet. Slowly, she approached her gaze snapping to the blue skinned creature as she bowed.

Distaste flickered across her face, whether it was because Ellissanthia had bowed, or because she was another brainwashed Kainite, Irina did not divulge, the momentary expression vanishing back behind a mask of cold indifference as she straightened, her words bordering on mindless devotion. Dark eyes ringed with fire looked Ellissanthia up and down, trying to find a polite response. “Irina Jesart, apprentice to Lord Lechner.”

Her gaze moved back to Aerik, softening slightly as it did. Whatever jealousy that had wound itself in the pit of her stomach diminished, she knew Aerik well enough to know that this creature would not attract his attention, certainly not with such a submissive demeanour.

“I just wanted to give you your gift seeing as our chances to see each other are few and far between, it seemed a waste to simply send it.” She extended the velvet wrapped box to him. “If you want my company, I’ll join you. Three heads are better than two, after all.”

Not that they needed three heads. Irina doubted there was any maze that existed that she and Aerik could not crack with ease, but for the sake of being polite…

 

[Darth Strosius]

​

Tags: Madrona A’Mia / Lina Ovmar / Srina Talon
--------------------------------------------

He idly felt His eye twitch at the scene as it played out before Him, crossing His arms in an attempt to appear nonchalant in spite of His inability to turn His gaze away from A'Mia and Lina's dance. The graceful lead into a quicker pace, it reminded Darth Strosius of when the Neti had managed to coerce Him into joining her on the dance floor. Lady Ovmar for her part kept up well as He knew that she would have, never one to be caught on the backfoot and certainly not so in such an activity.

When the dip occurred He realized that He'd been digging His gloved fingers into His arm throughout the whole display, finally noticing due to the sudden soreness where His fingers had been clenching against His arm. The masked man ground His fangs together as He clicked His tongue and did His best to ignore the unusual feeling swirling in His core at the sight of the pair together. He couldn't quite figure out a proper term for it anyway, simply chalking it up to unease. Unease that kept His gaze flickering between the two of them as they danced in all their glory.

Only a distinct and distantly familiar presence brushing against the back of His senses made Darth Strosius reluctantly glance around in order to find the source only to all but leap out of His skin whenever Lady Srina spoke from seemingly right next to Him. His head whipped around at a speed that shouldn't have been natural and regarded the Empress with a hidden expression of confusion and shock. How long had she been standing there? Why was she there instead of brushing elbows with some simpering sycophant? Or even worse, an obtuse tyrant?

Had she been sneaking up on Him? Had she seen His...distracted state? Had she seen what, who, He'd been distracted by? He didn't know any such answers and He was rather hesitant to know them in truth. It took a long moment for her remark to process in His mind, delayed by the slew of questions and surprise that had riddled His attention. "Yes, I recall." Darth Strosius also recalled having to sit Revna down to give her an extensive conversation about interacting with unknown variables and infamous individuals within the Sith Order.

As usual, she hadn't listened to His very wise and fitting advice of course.

The masked man stood up straighter when Lady Srina finally looked His way, crossing His arms behind His back and reigning in His "wings" from where they had flared in surprise into a barely visible state. He still couldn't discern anything written across her features, nor the look in her eyes. Which made her question all the more unforeseen and off-putting, with Him having to catch Himself from cocking His head to the side in confusion. So she had noticed. Chit.

Instead of pondering on the full implications of that anymore He nodded back towards the beautiful duo on the dance floor. "I get the impression that they'd be all too happy to rope me into some...shenanigans if I made my way towards them." Darth Strosius kept His tone level and clinical but He was being genuine, the Force only knew what those two were concocting even as they spoke. "I prefer to keep my senses sharp and free of...distractions at events such as these, just in case."

He chose not to elaborate on what it was that He was supposedly keeping Himself readied and watchful for. Rather He slowly casted a wary gaze back to the Empress, one that narrowed slightly as He spoke again. "If I may ask, why aren't you at the center of the festivities? I'm sure there's a Dark Councilor or a governor somewhere that is in dire need of your attention and time. Or, some that would claim such importance at least." His words were careful even in spite of the slight scorn that tinged them. He was testing the waters as it were. "What brings you to my perch instead?"

 

[Lysander von Ascania]

Naniti
​

Lysander registered the poke. But it wasn’t an angry one. His head tipped while listening, attention narrowing, posture easing just a few more degrees. Of course, it was easy to find room for it, considering she didn’t name the habit, or paint it as arrogance. It could’ve also been framed as mistrust or even failure. She just named it.. with care.

Beneath the moment, the answer lingered, but his lips remained sealed. The squeeze he gave her hand next was to convey understanding. And then the other rose, enveloping hers where it lay near his heart, cradling long enough to feel the warmth of her violet skin beneath his palm. A thumb traced a path across two of her fingers.

“It's an instinct. I'm just so used to stepping forward first and taking the first hit. It's always been that way.. half the time I don't even realize I'm doing it until I'm already committed..”

A slow exhale, a small plume of breath fogging the space.

“But.. I can learn where it doesn't belong. Where it doesn't serve us.” His mouth curved then, just a little. “Blame Ukatis,” the words came softly. “Or my sister. I grew up on knightly fairytales.” He didn’t say how much he believed in them back then. Definitely didn’t say how much he still did.

When the Togruta’s deep blue eyes met his, Lysander refused to turn away. He'd seen them dance with challenge, humor, and defiance.. the same spark that caught his attention in the training yard on Desevro months ago. Now they drew him in a way impossible to ignore; only those could inspire clarity..

“There'll always be room for you." The decision was already made. “It’s not so complicated, you know. I like it when you’re there. I’m better when you’re beside me.”

A little quieter still.. “Because I like choosing you, Naniti.”

Saying it aloud felt better than keeping it tucked away in his head.

Their sleigh had been at a still for several seconds already. Pulling back, he slowly swung one leg over the rail, then the other, boots finding purchase on the snow. Even then, his touch lingered, for letting go required conscious effort. When he did release, it was gradual. The entire world opened before them. Pale cliffs fell far into the distance, frost caught like scattered stars. The vast sky above was clear.

Silence began to stretch.. but it wasn’t empty.

 

[Srina Talon]

Allies: Darth Strosius | Madrona A’Mia | Lina Ovmar
Location: Old Tree [Near Alisteri Holding Up a Pillar]

____________________________________________________

Srina did not react when he turned so sharply, with only the faintest flicker of her lashes marking that she had noticed the speed. It was restraint layered over instinct, signs of a seasoned warrior, not the fragile little Queen many imagined her to be. She remained where she was with her shoulder still resting against the tree, posture unguarded in an almost deceptive way. As if she were completely at ease rather than constantly in tune with her environment.

His response amused her. Not openly, of course. He would hate that.

She was quiet while he spoke, and her eyes followed his back to the two women who had left him in such a curious state. The pale woman took in the sight, noting graceful movements that threaded together with ease. It suggested familiarity...and with the way glances had kept turning back toward the man at her side…The Echani woman was certain, something was happening. "Hm…"

A soft sound, considering, without realizing that Darth Strosius might not really want the answer.

"Shenanigans…", she repeated the word, reaching up to brush her hand back behind her ear. It was…Long and loose. Something that had become more of an occurrence without @Darth Empyrean…Though few would know why. Those who knew, however, wouldn't understand. It had always been the little things that kept her world turning. As of late, it stood still. "Seems likely."

There was no mockery in her reply. If anything, the word sounded gently tested, as though she were trying it on instead of it being part of her regular vocabulary. Metallic orbs returned to Darth Strosius after a long moment, still listening, while recounting his physical response.

It was strange how he acted now, considering how it had been when he thought no one was watching.

"…If by shenanigans, you mean that they either wish to continue to befriend you…Or court you. Distractions are not something that are always chosen…Sometimes, they simply occur.", even, for people who always remained vigilant and observed every fluctuation in the Force like it was some kind of crystal ball. Maliphant had been one such distraction. So long ago, she had thought of nothing more than her revenge against the Jedi, white-hot, and furious…Until, quite suddenly, he was there. Distracting, her. "I think…It would please them if you did join them. Even for something…"

The Empress raised her hand and showed him her thumb and forefinger put closely together. "Small."

When he questioned her presence, the faintest ghostly curve touched the kiss of her mouth. It wasn't a smile but moreso a recognition of irony. For all that had transpired since he had "fallen" in the farce of a Kaggath, in the wake of Brosi, and the attack of the Blackwall…He still thought so little of her. It was interesting how truly deed meant far less than a crown—When he seemed to despise it so.

"You must imagine that I am shackled to a very narrow circle if that is the first thing that comes to mind."

She shifted then, just enough, to turn more fully toward him. The tree and the pillar no longer kept them separate…But there was an old history that remained even if it went unspoken, ever still, pressing a wall between them. His distrust, her silence, the secret that she had carried for him without asking for anything in return. Even when the consequences nearly cost her the apprentice she had referenced. He had been free to roam, without the Kainite or Eternalists chasing him down. She did not invoke the promise kept, nor would she. It was just…Truth. "I am here because I wished to be."

Her gaze flickered once more to the dancers, then back to him.

"Because you looked like you were trying very hard…Not to get swept away."

Srina wouldn't linger on that subject, yet, because it implied weakness. But Echani eyes weren't needed to see how the pair dancing seemed to challenge the ground beneath his feet. The fact that she had them, well, that made things all the more apparent. The outline of his "wings" gave her the impression of a startled bird, just barely managing not to take flight or attack. He was so absorbed in them. Drawn.

"And…Because you seem convinced that I would not."

He had a particular outlook that had always left him at odds with former Sith Emperors. It was what kept her from intruding on his peace, often, rightly assuming she wouldn't be welcome. The way his eyes narrowed on her, the wariness, told her that she was at least mostly correct in that assumption. Srina drew in a deep breath and exhaled slowly, a puff of pale vapor evaporating into the air. "…I was not made for the spotlight, Lord Haxim. It is a consequence of my position…but not a preference."

She paused, glancing up at the sky.

"...I thought…I might stand with you."

For a little while.

 

[Madrona A’Mia]

Tags: Lina Ovmar | Darth Strosius | Srina Talon
Outfit
Theme

​

For a time, they maintained their lively pace and flowed effortlessly with the music. A’Mia merely focused on their rhythm and grace without need for additional thoughts to be given voice right away. There was something so elegant about time spent thusly, she thought it a rather fine way to get to know someone better.

Eventually though, curiosity won out as it ever did with A’MIa. The music slowed and the arboreal woman drew Lina in closely. She was none the wiser to the watchful eyes of the Empress, and in fact her thoughts had strayed from Alisteri altogether for the moment.

”As I’ve learned more about you, Lina, I grow only more impressed. You possess a levelheadedness that I greatly appreciate and your skillset is enchanting.”

Her voice was low and thoughtful, more serious than her typical bearing. Clearly the woman had given her next words some thought.

”I wish to work more closely with you. If I meet your own requirements for such, I wish to learn more about your motivations as well as share some of my own. We could make a formidable team, don’t you think?”

 

[Aerik Lechner]

WEARING: xxx | TAG:@ Ellissanthia | Irina Jesart​

Aerik did not move when Ellissanthia bowed again. The pause that followed was not deliberate. It was the result of him watching the motion and failing to find the response it seemed to expect. His shoulders shifted as if to correct for balance rather than posture, boots adjusting against the snow with more care than usual.

"You really do not need to do that."

The words came plainly, without reprimand, and he did not follow them with anything else. The attention directed at him remained uncomfortable in a way he did not know how to address. His focus shifted instead to Irina as she stepped closer. The box in her hands registered only when it was extended toward him.

His gaze dropped to it, then lifted back to her face.

"I did‘t know you brought anything."

Aerik should have heard her fumbling with the box.

He took the box carefully, fingers closing around it with a hesitation that had nothing to do with the weight. The cold had settled deeper by then, and the effort required to still his hands showed in the way his grip tightened once before easing. He held it against his palm for a moment longer than necessary, as if grounding himself.

"Thank you."

The words were quieter than the others, but no less certain. The box remained unopened. Whatever it was, this was not the place.

His attention returned to Ellissanthia briefly, then away again, uncertainty evident in the way his stance adjusted rather than in his expression. He did not look at either of them as if he expected guidance.

"I am not used to this."

A breath followed, slower than it should have been. His shoulders rolled once, measured, as though working against stiffness that had crept in unnoticed. Color had leeched from his face enough to be visible beneath the lanternlight, and the cold air caught in his lungs before he exhaled.

"We were going to start moving."

The statement was not instruction. It was necessity.

Remaining still no longer seemed like an option. He took one step, and fell into the snow.

 

[Lina Ovmar]

Tags: Madrona A’Mia Darth Strosius Srina Talon​

Lina didn’t resist as A’Mia drew her in, her form folding neatly against hers as the music slowed and they shifted into a more gentle waltz, her cheeks were flushed a few strand of hair had come loose to frame her face but she was not breathless. She was content in the quiet that settled over them as she studied the neti’s face, wondering what thoughts travelled behind her blue-green eyes. They reminded her of the churn of a tropical sea after a storm.

A warm smile spread at the compliment but did not interrupt, she had not heard the quiet tone in her voice before, Lina had only borne witness to the somewhat chaotic enthusiasm that bubbled forth. She let out a small hum of agreement, her eyes glittering with delight at the proposal.

“I truly do.” she said softly. “Learning more about you, A’Mia, would be a gift. There are few people in this galaxy who have captured my attention in the way that you have. You are…” she tilted her head trying to find the right words, “...a enigma, yet one that i feel a connection with. I am not sure if that makes any sense, but I cannot quite find the words..." a smile found her lips again. "I would be honoured to work more with you.”

 

[Ellissanthia]

Location: Courtyard
Attire: Winter Outfit
Notable Equipment and Effects: Storm Kiss │ Dermal Hydration Underlay │ Seer Stones
Thread Objective: Frosted Grounds
Tag: Aerik Lechner Irina Jesart

Ellissanthia’s pupils widened slightly when the young wolf reiterated his comment regarding her bowing. Of course, the Undine had taken note of the fact that Aerik did not want her to bow to him, but she could not say the same for the other apprentice—Irina Jesart. In that, Irina had given no protest. However, it was more the fact that Ellissanthia had been unable to find an outward sign of displeasure in the taller apprentice’s expression.

Nevertheless, Ellissanthia decided that for now, she would refrain from bowing towards other Sith apprentices while she was in Aerik’s presence, but would continue to do so towards Irina, should the young wolf not be present. After all, submission to the Sith was the way of the Eclipse Sect!

From there, Ellissanthia felt a smile tug at her lips as Irina offered her fellow apprentice a gift, causing the Undine’s features to go flush with admiration. How adorable! The Undine batted her lashes, before taking a few steps back out of a desire to avoid intruding on the intimate exchange between the young Sith power couple. At that, her eyes lit up with both realization and excitement. She could very well be witnessing the genesis of the next Sith Emperor and Empress!

Thus, with the vision of Irina and Aerik seated on throne fresh in her head, Ellissanthia’s smile was even more unsettling when Aerik said that it was time for them to move.

“Right, Lord Apprentice! The maze!” She chimed, devotion apparent in her tone. “Should I lead the way? Or would either of you—”

The question shattered on her lips as Aerik took a step forward and faltered. Ellissanthia fell silent, her eyebrows shooting up her forehead as she registered the young wolf losing his balance. She rushed forward in an attempt to catch him, but was too far away.

Thus, as the Apprentice of the Shadow Hand fell into the snow, Ellissanthia shrieked as if she were witnessing a demigod being violently unseated from his throne!

“Father’s Gaze!” Ellissanthia cried aloud, hands fluttering in distress as she came to Aerik’s side. “Are you alright, my lord?!”

 

[Naniti]

Naniti snorted, but with a smile. "Yeah, well, don't go out of your way to die, alright? We're stronger together." Totally not a hallmark Sith teaching -- at least for the Rule of Two fanatics -- but it felt right to say. More importantly, she just wanted to be selfish and greedy ensuring Lysander didn't get himself killed. The Togruta wanted him around. So maybe they teamed up from time to time. As though they weren't already.

It really did help to hear Lysander say those things. Her upbringing had been of brutality and paranoia. People used people to get ahead. They expected something in return and discarded those useless to them. But hearing him say she was always wanted and that he liked her being there was just... strangely reassuring. Naniti didn't question it. Could he be lying? Anyone could say the words. There was no magic that bound him to hold to them. Even so, she just... believed them. Believed in them. In Lysander.

How had he gotten so close? Why did she even feel this way? Was it some deep repressed desire to be cherished from an empty childhood? The rage so carefully contained was still there, it hadn't abated by a hair, but there was something else along side it now. Something she didn't understand, but wanted to keep.

The Togruta's lips thinned for just a second as Lysander slipped out of the sleigh that'd come to a stop, which required physical separation. She slid to his side where the bench was still warm before Naniti stepped out after him. It was the fastest way to get back at his side than walking around the sleigh.

Once on the ground, she stepped over to Lysander with carefully placed, firm steps, but once she was beside him waste no time in throwing an arm around his back. Naniti drew in along side Lysander without asking. She expected he wouldn't complain. The silent self-invite allowed them to stand there in the cool, crisp air and take in the scenery together.

The view really was kind of captivating. Not as much as the company she'd chosen to keep by her side, but it had earned a moment of recognition. Just the two of them staring out at the pristine cliffs beneath a sky devoid of gloom or fire. It was the sort of thing holos loved describing, or that Jedi claimed made pain and suffering worthwhile in their struggles. Was it that? If it was at Lysander's side... yeah, maybe it wasn't so bad to bask in such scenery. Escape the demands of society for just a little while. Get away. Be alone together.

Naniti pressed in a little snugger at his side and took in a deep breath.

Lysander von Ascania

 

[Darth Strosius]

​

Tags: Madrona A’Mia / Lina Ovmar / Srina Talon
--------------------------------------------

The masked man allowed Himself the slightest of ease at the Empress's agreement with His excuse, although it would have been a lie to say that He relaxed in any meaningful manner. Darth Strosius knew better than to let His guard down around one who kept such company, let alone one with such unknown motivations and intentions. Whatever it was that had drawn Lady Srina to stand with Him now couldn't have been anything so casual or in good intent, not for Him at least.

Although while He had been bracing for something dire and rash, He was very startled when she instead continued speaking on the "shenanigans" in question. Drawing an almost choked gasp in surprise when she outright said that He was potentially being courted of all things. The break in His composure wasn't swiftly recovered from, His masked gaze regarding her with shock once more as He tried to regain some semblance of stillness and calm in His posture.

It almost sounded as though she was giving Him...advice? And specifically advice regarding the two women which had captured His attention so completely at that. To say that it was unexpected would be an understatement, He was absolutely astonished. What could have possibly been her angle here? Lady Srina might have been an enigma to Him but He knew enough to recognize that she was completely aware of her position and prestige, of the full weight of her words and remarks.

And here she was giving Him advice on women of all things. Darth Strosius genuinely didn't know whether to be offended that she thought He was in need of such advice or somewhat flattered that she had stepped away from whatever she was meant to be doing at this celebration just to talk about His potential love life. Frankly He was still trying to wrap His mind about such a potentiality in general, and that was without the Empress choosing to comment on it.

He was in such a perplexed and offset state that when she responded to His query of having more important company to entertain, a genuine question slipped right from the front of His mind. "Aren't you?" Of course she was, keeping the ambitions of the powers-that-be within the Order from attempting to consume one another must have demanded nothing less. The masked man couldn't see any alternative, not with such potent pride swelling within the likes of Raaf and the Kainate.

When the Empress did turn to regard Him fully He did the same after a moment, sparing one last glance towards the dancing pair before tearing His gaze away. This time though He didn't bother attempting to hide the sidelong look towards them. Apparently He'd been obvious enough already so there was no need to bother pretending otherwise, even if it did somewhat hurt His pride and composure to so brazenly do so when in the presence of one such as Lady Srina.

An eyebrow quirked beneath His mask at the rather simple answer that she was there instead of anywhere else because she wanted to be, tempered by a decidedly sheepish decline of His head at the comment of Him almost becoming lost in the spectacles that were Lina and A'Mia. Rather than give a proper response to that Darth Strosius simply cleared His throat and rolled His shoulders as His gaze slid back to face her properly. He wasn't really certain what He could say to disprove that remark anyway.

"I wouldn't say that such a conviction is unwarranted. Personal visits from one such as yourself aren't common for those such as I, certainly not in a civil manner at any rate." Their interactions were far from numerous after all, due in no small part to His own aversion to brushing elbows with the movers and shakers among the Sith Order. They had no need for Him and He tended to despise most of them in kind for one reason or another, overlap simply didn't occur for the most part.

There was a small hum that left the masked man at the notion of having to endure attention due to her position, something that He could sympathize with. In spite of His best efforts His own followers more often than not tended to form a sort of cult of personality around Him, raising Him as some divine figure rather a mere leader and guide as He knew Himself to be. Dying like a martyr and being resurrected certainly didn't help to extinguish such an image within His followers, much to His chagrin.

Darth Strosius clicked His tongue before offering the Empress a nod. "You've certain chosen the best spot and Sith to keep out of the 'spotlight' for the moment then. I am not one for such things myself, and thankfully none within the Order would allow me to have it regardless." He inclined His head slightly, the bright landscape glinting in the dark visor of His mask. And for a brief moment, He allowed a hint of mirth to seep into His words. "Perhaps if you tire of the spotlight so much you could adopt some of my more...obtrusive and unpopular habits. In order to grant yourself a respite."

 

[Fatine von Ascania]

Fatine curled her fingers around the axe's handle, then her wrist dropped suddenly from the unexpected weight of its head. Somehow, it felt heavier than she'd anticipated.

"Hmm," she tsked, not at all bothered. In fact, she looked rather pleased. "I loosened it for you."

Fatine turned the axe over in her grip with a thoughtful hum. "Golden boy, huh?"

It was strange to think of Lysander as the pinnacle of anything. Then again, she'd only ever known him as her brother. Fatine had the sense that he was beginning to spread his wings, but she wished that he'd picked a better direction because this one seemed...dour and dangerous.

Honey-brown irises flicked back to Ace. She hoped that he would, too. Or maybe she just hoped that she'd understand his choices better.

A snort rippled through the frigid air.

"Better than Lysander? That won't be too hard," she insisted. A sharp flick of her wrist gave the axe a twirl, but once again, she was caught off guard by the distribution of its weight. Fortunately, Fatine managed to maintain her grip through a brief stumble.

"He may look impressive, but I outclass Lysander in nearly every arena."

With a grunt of exertion, the petite aristocrat used two hands to heft the axe toward the painted target.

Acier Moonbound

 

[Lysander von Ascania]

Naniti
​

One moment Naniti was beside him, and the next she was there with him. So, Lysander’s posture eased immediately. His shoulder angled as it had earlier, giving space where it mattered. Then, his own arm was placed around her back. Fingers were placed so they wouldn’t crowd her lekku. His thumb traced a small arc before falling still.

She'd been clear about battle, and about how they were meant to face it together. But.. she hadn’t said a word about the cold. He shifted a step so that the wind struck him first with that too. It wasn't anything dramatic, just enough to keep the worst of it off her. The edge of his coat was lifted by his free hand to help near her shoulder. If she did object.. he already decided with amusement that he wasn’t going to listen this time. Besides, nature wasn’t an opponent she needed to prove herself against. He couldn’t think of any lessons to be learned with numbed skin.

Life Day, some called it. A curious thing.. to pause and mark survival in a galaxy so accustomed at taking. Lysander could understand why the Sith Order had little patience or use for it. Reflection, after all, was meant to sharpen the edge, like a blade, to prepare you for what came next. But as he stood there, staring out at the cliffs with the wind pressing against his back.. he found himself thinking about the past year. How much this path cost him. The trials that demanded so much from him.. everything that tried so hard to devour him.

He wouldn't disturb the silence by trying to name any of it. But somewhere beneath the layers, he hoped that she felt it too. Whatever this day was really meant to be, that it found Naniti as well.

They'd been to quite a few social gatherings lately, and unexpectedly, each one had felt good. No.. amazing. Easier than he would have predicted. Comfortable in a way he never cared to question at the time. This one was different, knowing it would be the last for a while. Soon, he would be leaving for the Tapani Sector. The thought had been circling the back of his mind for days now. There was a great deal of work waiting there.. threads to pull, countless risks that would demand a great deal of his attention.

And perhaps, he’d grown too comfortable with these moments. With how easily she fit beside him. Right now was worth holding onto for as long as it might last.

With a tilt of the head, Lysander leaned forward and softly grazed her cheek with his lips. The gentle press lasted only a moment, but the warmth remained, shifting into a soft smile afterward.

“I don’t care what doctrine says. Or what I’m supposed to prioritize.”

A slower breath passed through him. “I’m happy when I’m with you.”

 

[Acier Moonbound]

Location: [Redacted]

Equipment:
Winter Outfit | Lightsaber | Cybernetic Arm

Ace watched the way the axe dipped in her hand, eyes narrowing just a fraction. He didn't move straight away, but a small smile formed.

"I was wondering why it came out so easy." He said, dry as ever. "Real generous of you."

At her assessment of Lysander, his smile deepened and he shook his head once. Classic sibling rivalry. He'd seen how her brother moved through the galaxy... stripping it down, testing every truth until only the solid remained. Fatine didn't deny the weight of things either. She just refused to let it steal her spark.

"Yeah." He agreed quietly. "That checks out."

The twirl earned a soft huff of laughter before it cut short at her stumble. Ace's weight shifted instinctively, ready to step in, but she caught herself. Held it. Because of course she did, she was perfectly capable of handling herself. So he stayed where he was.

His gaze stayed on her hands now, the set of her shoulders, the way she adjusted without being told. When she spoke again, confidence blazing through the cold, something warm sparked behind his ribs.

Outclass him in nearly every arena? He believed her. Ace didn't say anything else. Didn't want to distract her, so he just watched as she drew the axe back and committed to the throw.

The axe struck with a solid thunk, biting into the outer ring of the target. Not dead center... but close enough that the wood shuddered from the impact.

His gaze tracked the line from the blade back to her, brows lifting just a fraction. A smile tugged at his mouth before he bothered trying to stop it.

"Hey." He said, nodding toward the target, tone warm with approval. "You definitely did better than Golden Boy."

He stepped a little closer, hands settling loosely at his sides as he eyed the placement.

"You really have been improving on your aim." He added.

His eyes flicked back to her, expression open, impressed in a way he didn't bother hiding. He lifted his hand and the axe shuddered free of the wood, sliding neatly back into his palm. Ace turned it and offered it to her again, handle first.

"Wanna go again, Miss von Ascania?" He asked lightly. "Or... you gonna make me try and keep up?"

Fatine von Ascania​

 

[Irina Jesart]

Tag: Ellissanthia Aerik Lechner Gerwald Lechner​

Irina's forehead creased briefly with a frown at his words. That he didn't know she had brought anything was not in reference to her getting him a gift, it was that he physically did not realise. He could hear her heartbeat a dozen feet away, yet the tightening of her fingers on the box when she had approached he had been deaf to?

His movement was slow as he took the box. Not hesitant like he was unsure; slow, like his body was not responding. Again his body moved stiffly, the light shifted catching his face and Irina noted how pale he was. She took a half a step forward, wanting to ask him what was wrong, wanting to check he was okay without drawing attention to it. She did not know who this Ellissanthia was beyond a Kainite, she would not have him appear weak in front of her.

Before she could act, he spoke, announcing the want to move before he took a step and pitched forward, sending small flurries of snow up as his knees hit the ground first, Irina moved, dropping with him arm catching across his chest to stop him falling face first into the snow, Ellissanthia's shriek earned her a deadly glare. "Be silent!" she snapped, before turning her attention to Aerik, turning him so his back was against her chest.

"Aerik?" she said softly, hands running along his arms, checking his hands and chest searching for an external cause for his collapse. He was deathly cold so Irina did the first thing that came to mind. The ring of fire around her irises flared heat rising in her own body, fire caught on nothing encircling the three of them the intense heat rapidly melting the snow around them as she closed her eyes reaching for Gerwald.

<<" Master, something is wrong with Aerik. He is sick.">>

 

[Ellissanthia]

Location: Courtyard
Attire: Winter Outfit
Notable Equipment and Effects: Storm Kiss │ Dermal Hydration Underlay │ Seer Stones
Thread Objective: Frosted Grounds
Tag: Aerik Lechner Irina Jesart Gerwald Lechner

Ellissanthia covered her mouth, her features trembling and losing much of their color at Irina’s rebuke. The Undine stood aside, before flinching as a sudden eruption of fire roared to life, encircling the group in a crackling corona. For a moment, her mind was wrenched back to the diamond cave on Erinar and the pyromancer who had eviscerated her with her superheated ōdachi. The phantom sensation returned in a flash—white-hot pain ignited in her awareness, burning across her stomach like a fiery brand.

For several heartbeats, the Undine stood paralyzed as the heat washed over her.

It was only when the fire blazed with sudden intensity, generating a flash of light that compelled Ellissanthia to cover her eyes, that she was snapped back to the present. Shaking her head to clear the memory, the Undine’s thoughts raced as she watched Irina tend to Aerik. She didn’t want to correct a Sith apprentice, but her instincts and training told her that this had to be an exception.

“The fire...it might be too much!” Ellissanthia called out, her tone carrying a thread of concern. “We don’t want to warm him too quickly. The heat might cause shock. Does he have a pulse? His heart could be under stress.” Swallowing a thick knot of anxiety, Ellissanthia came down to Aerik’s side and gently placed two elongated webbed fingers on the side of his neck to check for his carotid pulse.

 

[Aerik Lechner]

WEARING: xxx | TAG:@ Ellissanthia | Irina Jesart​

Aerik’s awareness returned in fragments.

The cold had gone from sharp to distant, replaced by a spreading heat that made his thoughts less brittle. Sensation crept back into his hands first, then his arms, dulled and slow but present. His breathing evened out in shallow pulls as his head shifted slightly against Irina’s shoulder. The movement was clumsy, delayed, as though his body lagged behind intent.

One hand lifted partway before stopping, fingers curling weakly into the fabric at her forearm. The contact was unsteady, but deliberate.

“I’m here.”

The words came quietly, breath heavy behind them. His head turned a fraction toward the warmth at his back, eyelids lifting enough to take in blurred shapes and color. The fire reflected faintly across his eyes, and with it came a little more focus.

“I didn’t mean to cause a scene.”

His gaze drifted toward Ellissanthia without fully settling, attention sliding past the posture rather than engaging with it. Whatever deference she offered did not seem to register as something requiring response. The effort of standing, or even sitting upright, was clearly beyond him for the moment.

A slow breath followed. Another.

“Thank you,” he added, directed toward Irina rather than the gift itself. The meaning rested where it needed to.

His grip tightened briefly, then eased again as the heat continued to do its work. The stiffness in his shoulders began to loosen, though the pallor remained, and the effort it took him to stay present showed in the way his head rested more fully against her.

After that, he went quiet, conserving what little strength had returned, letting the warmth hold him there rather than fighting to move before he was ready.