Private Let me paint you a picture

[Arthion Aesatra]

If one were to describe the atmosphere of the Jedi Temple, it would not be inaccurate to say ‘peaceful’. It was an island of tranquillity, far removed from the chaos of the galaxy at large. Even the hustle and bustle of Coruscant seemed distant from within the imposing walls of the Temple. It was a perfect atmosphere for cultivating one’s inner calm, free of distractions.

But certain people had a harder time forgetting the chaos than others.

Stroke after stroke, Arthion brushed on the canvas she had set in front of her. She moved with precision and expertise indicative of her skill at painting, and yet it was clear in her eyes that her mind was far, far away. The turbulence within was given form in the canvas before her, presenting reality in nigh idyllic fashion, yet bearing a degree of abstraction within, almost as if the swirl of emotions inside bled into the world of the painting, shifting and warping it in ways that the average person would not be able to pinpoint.

Ever since Arthion and her Master had exposed the Galaadi Conspiracy, she had been in a pensive mood, with one question in her mind: how much change had they truly wrought? Were they making the galaxy better, or had they simply cut off the head of the hydra? They had removed the people in charge, yes, but the systems and mechanisms through which they accomplished their misdeeds yet remained in place.

Arthion sighed, shaking her head and refocusing on painting. Quieting her feelings had always been a difficult task for her, but she knew that constant worry would accomplish nothing save paralyse her. Perhaps she ought to go and do something else…

---

Valery Noble

 

[Valery Noble]

​

Outfit: Jedi Jumpsuit
Weapons: Lightsabers

Valery moved quietly through the art alcove, her amber gaze softening as it settled on Arthion, lost in her painting. She paused a moment, admiring the work — the careful brushstrokes captured something both serene and unsettled, a reflection of the young Jedi Knight herself.

"It's beautiful," Valery said softly, stepping closer. Her words were gentle, respectful of the space Arthion had created around herself. She watched as the Knight looked up, her expression tinged with a familiar doubt, one Valery knew all too well from her own path as a Jedi.

"You seem intensely focused on your art today," Valery continued, a warm smile in her eyes. "There's a lot on your mind, isn't there? How have you been… really?"

Valery held Arthion's gaze, a quiet invitation to open up. She had a mission in mind, but for now, she wanted to be sure Arthion was ready. Whatever she needed to share, Valery was here to listen — as both a guide and a friend.

Arthion Aesatra ​

 

[Arthion Aesatra]

“Hmm?” Arthion froze for a moment as Valery’s voice sounded out, breaking her from her trance… and frightening her a smidge, though she would never admit it. Though ordinarily highly aware of her surroundings thanks to the Force, it wasn’t all that difficult to sneak up on her at times like these, even accidentally.

Eyes flitting to Valery, Arthion relaxed, shooting the woman a small but warm smile. Despite this, the swirling feelings in her eyes left no doubt as to how much was on her mind. Arthion had never been good at hiding her emotions, especially not from Valery.

For a moment, Arthion considered Valery’s query. She disliked troubling others with her turbulent emotions, but she trusted Valery and often relied on her for guidance. She couldn’t help but wonder if perhaps she burdened Valery, but whenever they talked, she had never sensed anything but acceptance and understanding.

It was comforting.

Rather than directly address the question at first, Arthion would instead touch upon the matter that had been plaguing her mind.

“... What have I accomplished?” She questioned, brow furrowing as she looked back to her painting. “When I venture out into the galaxy, the laments of the powerless speak louder than almost anything else. I work to help them, I bring justice to evildoers, I lend the needy solace. And yet, I cannot help but wonder if things will truly change once I leave. What is to stop another from taking the place of the tyrant I laid low? How will the people manage to fend for themselves when I’m gone?”

She paused for a moment, sighing again. “I suppose I am simply tired.”

---

Valery Noble

 

[Valery Noble]

​

Outfit: Jedi Jumpsuit
Weapons: Lightsabers

Valery's gaze softened as she listened, watching Arthion's expression shift with each word. She could see the weight pressing on the young Knight's shoulders — the quiet anguish of someone who carried more than they should and questioned if it would ever be enough.

She stepped closer, her eyes tracing the brushstrokes on Arthion's canvas, each color and movement reflecting the turmoil beneath her Padawan's calm exterior. "You know," Valery began gently, "I think every Jedi struggles with these questions at some point, especially when they care as deeply as you do."

She glanced sideways at Arthion, a faint smile tugging at her lips. "The galaxy is a big place, and the challenges are enormous. It's easy to feel like what we do is... fleeting. Like putting out a fire, only for the embers to spark again when we turn away."

Valery's gaze shifted back to the painting, but her tone grew stronger, filled with conviction. "But real change, Arthion, isn't just about defeating tyrants or helping those in need once. It's in every life we touch. In every seed of hope we plant. The people you've helped, the ones who've felt your compassion and courage — they remember that. And even when you're gone, that memory, that inspiration… it stays with them. It becomes a part of them."

Reaching out, Valery placed a reassuring hand on Arthion's shoulder. "I know you're tired, and I know the path feels endless. But you don't walk it alone. And you're not expected to solve everything yourself. What matters is that you're trying. That you're here, still willing to stand up for others, even if you can't see the end of the road just yet."

She paused, letting her words settle for a moment. "Sometimes, the most important thing we can do is to keep going, to be that light for others, even if it's just one step at a time."

Arthion Aesatra ​

 

[Arthion Aesatra]

Arthion fell silent as Valery spoke, offering words of advice and comfort. They were, as expected, sound in their wisdom, uplifting her weary spirits, even if just somewhat. Truth be told, however, the contents of what Valery said mattered less to Arthion than the fact that she was simply here, giving her the time of day. She… did enjoy the attention, though no force in the galaxy would ever get her to say so out loud.

The young woman exhaled, smiling once more—this time far more openly and sincerely than before.

“Perhaps. I suppose we shouldn’t expect to see immediate change. Forgive me. Patience is a virtue I’m often in short supply of.” She said, “I can only hope what I’ve done has had the effect you say… but that question will answer itself in time, I imagine.”

Her smile, however, slowly faded as she continued. “That being said, it’s undeniable that certain cycles will repeat themselves unless systemic change is brought about. I suppose that is the job of senators, but I hardly trust politicians to truly understand the issues at hand, let alone be willing to enact the change necessary to address them.” Her time in Naboo had soured her on politicians in general, and she took a very dour view of them as a result.

After a few moment’s pause, however, she shook her head. “But that’s a matter best discussed another time. You came to me regarding another matter, no?” She said, having gotten the sense that there was something else Valery wished to address. Certain things were still bothering her, but then... when was that not the case?

---

Valery Noble

 

[Valery Noble]

​

Outfit: Jedi Jumpsuit
Weapons: Lightsabers

Valery's smile deepened as she listened to Arthion, recognizing the fire behind her words and the subtle frustration that came from seeing the world's flaws so clearly. That intensity, that desire for justice — it was something Valery had often felt herself. She reached out, resting a reassuring hand on Arthion's shoulder, her touch both grounding and warm.

"Patience has a way of finding us when we least expect it," she replied softly. "And as for politicians… well, you're not alone in those feelings. But sometimes, it's not just senators who make change. People like you, out in the galaxy, are the ones who inspire others to think and act differently. You'll be surprised by the ripples a single mission can create."

She paused, letting her words sink in, before finally addressing the reason she had sought Arthion out. Her tone shifted slightly, taking on a purposeful note. "Speaking of missions, I came to ask if you'd like to join me on one. It's… not an easy one, but..." Her eyes sparkled with a hint of playfulness, knowing her words might stir a mixture of curiosity and resolve in Arthion.

"It might be good to get out there again, and it'll be the two of us."

Arthion Aesatra ​

 

[Arthion Aesatra]

Arthion gave her a soft, subtle nod, though there was still a remnant of doubt in her eyes. She truly did want to believe that, but as matters stood… it was difficult. She had witnessed unspeakable things done to those entirely undeserving, whether it be by the hands of criminals, greedy businessmen, and corrupt politicians.

But Valery’s reassuring hand on her shoulder grounded her, pulling her away from darker places and calming the inner fire that threatened to erupt. Arthion had always been emotional, her serene appearance merely a facade for the constantly active emotions within.

“Your faith in me is reassuring, Master.” She said with a grateful smile. “I only hope I prove worthy of it in time.”

The mention of a mission, perhaps predictably, did get Arthion’s attention. Lips slightly parting in surprise, her smile shifted, her eyes glinting with a subtle eagerness, wanting to know more. Arthion was a restless sort who disliked time spent idle, so she all but immediately jumped on the chance to go on a mission with the woman she looked up to so much.

“Nothing worth doing is easy.” She said cooly, trying—and failing—to mask her excitement. “Whatever the mission is, I would be more than happy to join you. What are we to do?”

---

Valery Noble

 

[Valery Noble]

​

Outfit: Jedi Jumpsuit
Weapons: Lightsabers

Valery's smile grew at Arthion's eager response, a flicker of warmth lighting her gaze as she watched her former Padawan's poise melt into a subtle, unmistakable excitement. Despite Arthion's attempt to keep her composure, the way her eyes brightened and her posture shifted told Valery everything she needed to know.

"You're right," Valery replied softly, "Nothing worth doing is easy." She let her hand drop from Arthion's shoulder, clasping her hands together as she glanced out at the peaceful gardens within the Temple courtyard. But the gravity of her mission was reflected in her expression as she turned back to Arthion.

"This mission is in the Outer Rim — there's a growing criminal presence that's been troubling the smaller systems. Smuggling, extortion, and reports of something... darker influencing their organization. It's not entirely clear yet, but I have a bad feeling about it."

Valery let that linger, watching Arthion's reaction carefully. She knew the strength of Arthion's convictions, the depth of her compassion, and the potential that simmered just beneath the surface. "There will be challenges. We'll be stepping into hostile territory, and the risks are high." Her tone softened, and a hint of pride crept into her expression. "But I wouldn't have come to you if I didn't believe you were ready."

She paused, then smirked, "If you're ready, we can leave immediately. We might only need to get changed to not stand out too much where we're heading."

Arthion Aesatra ​

 

[Arthion Aesatra]

Valery’s emotions tingled at the edge of her senses. Now that the mission was at the forefront of her mind, it was clear to sense that this was an assignment of some gravity. She was, after all, the Grandmaster of the order. It wouldn’t be just any assignment that would make her see to it personally.

Arthion’s own expression grew steely and focused as Valery relayed to her its details. Criminal organisations, influenced by something darker…

“Concerning indeed. The Outer Rim is particularly susceptible to influence from such entities. Allowing their growth unabated would be… problematic.” She said, in regards to both criminal organisations and darker influences. With governing bodies tending to be lax at best, it was not uncommon for those who slithered in the Dark to perform their nefarious activities there.

But that was no deterrent for Arthion.

“Once again, your faith gladdens me, Master. This isn’t my first time venturing to the Outer Rim, though I have a feeling this will be particularly eventful.” She smiled wryly. “I’m ready. Let me just fetch my belongings and-”

She paused, blinking as everything Valery said registered in her mind. It was all fine, save for one matter that clashed directly with her sense of being. “... Get changed?”

Arthion couldn't help but furrow her brow. By the Force, she always hated having to dress down for missions. The sense that all her effort in making herself look good going to waste was nothing short of revolting!

But with a dramatic sigh and shake of her head, she mournfully accepted the sacrifice she would have to make. “Oh, well. I suppose I shall have to accept not looking my best for some time. I’m sure I have some drab robes somewhere in my wardrobe.”

---

Valery Noble

 

[Valery Noble]

​

Outfit: Jedi Jumpsuit
Weapons: Lightsabers

Valery's smile turned amused as she watched Arthion wrestle with the idea of dressing down for their mission. She knew how much Arthion cared for her appearance, and while the Underworld's less-than-glamorous aesthetic might not fit her usual style, Valery had no doubt she'd adapt gracefully — even if reluctantly.

"Don't worry," Valery chuckled, her tone light but reassuring. "I promise you'll look great, even in something a bit more practical for where we're heading. The Underworld may have its own... unique aesthetic, but I'd bet you'll make it work." She gave Arthion an encouraging smile, hoping to ease her concerns.

With a final nod, Valery gestured down the corridor. "Come on, let's get to the hangar. The Bastion is prepped and ready for us." She turned and led the way, her steps confident as they left the Temple halls behind and headed for the sleek, dark-metal expanse of the hangar. Her ship sat waiting, its angled hull and polished exterior reflecting the soft glow of the overhead lights.

As they approached, Valery glanced back at Arthion, her gaze warm. "I'll brief you further on the way there, but I have a feeling we're in for quite an adventure. Ready?"

Arthion Aesatra ​

 

[Arthion Aesatra]

Arthion exhaled frumpily, not best pleased with this turn of events. Still, it was hardly as if she would turn down the mission just because she couldn’t wear the outfits she wanted. She was vain, but she wasn’t a petulant child.

“There is very little that I can’t make work. Perhaps I should purchase some more underworld-style clothing… but I digress.” Arthion said, a tinge of pride in her voice. If there was one thing she was confident in, it was her sense of fashion. She was certain she would find something for her to look good in, even if it didn’t quite appeal to her tastes.

With a nod, Arthion would follow Valery, walking beside her as they headed for the hangar, her heels audibly clacking on the ground. Like Valery, her steps were confident, though the air of refinement and the dignified posture she held gave a decidedly posh air to her, as did the way her sharp eyes regard her surroundings. It wasn’t intentional, but she did end up seeming a bit haughty…

Shooting a smile to Valery as they approached her ship, she would give her a nod. “I feel the same way. Let’s make this adventure a successful one, hmm?”

---

Valery Noble

 

[Valery Noble]

​

Outfit: Jedi Jumpsuit
Weapons: Lightsabers

As they reached the hangar, Valery turned to Arthion, a playful glint in her amber eyes. "Don't worry, you'll still look good even in underworld style," she said with a reassuring grin. "In fact, we'll make sure both of us blend in while still turning a few heads."

Leading Arthion into the sleek interior of the Bastion, Valery guided her toward the ship's modest changing quarters, where an array of more rugged outfits was laid out, perfect for the underworld's gritty vibe. With a nod, Valery gestured toward the selection. "Pick whatever suits your style here. Even without all the glam, I know you'll look great."

Valery herself reached for a fitted white blouse with a lace-up front that dipped just enough to hint at allure without compromising practicality. The sleeves were snug, accentuating the toned shape of her arms, while the shirt itself hugged her figure in a way that was striking yet functional. She slipped into a pair of dark brown pants with leather straps that looped around her thighs, emphasizing both utility and elegance. The outfit was completed by a pair of knee-high leather boots with a subtle heel, adding to her confident stride.

As she finished getting dressed, Valery caught her reflection in the mirror, her fingers instinctively moving to adjust her hair. She pulled her dark brown hair back into a high ponytail, allowing a few loose strands to frame her face. The simplicity of the style complemented the rugged look, but there was still a hint of sophistication in the way her hair cascaded over her shoulder.

Turning back to Arthion with an approving nod, she offered a warm smile. "Ready to dive into this?"

Arthion Aesatra ​

 

[Arthion Aesatra]

Arthion chuckled, smiling at Valery. “I shall take your word for it.” She said mirthfully. Truth be told, she was well aware that she looked much too dainty and delicate to pass off as a proper scoundrel—after all, it was an image she had partly cultivated herself. Nonetheless, it would still be better than walking around in the outfit she had now. It was far too ostentatious, and would certainly draw more eyes than wanted for such a mission.

Led to the changing quarters, Arthion eyed the various options, her eyes expertly navigating through all the available ensembles. Quickly, she picked out the clothes she wanted, colour coordinating for style whilst still keeping with the theme of rugged Outer Rim denizen. Even if they had to blend in, it wouldn’t stop her from trying to look good.

She was, however, distracted. Eyes flitting to Valery for a moment as she went through the process of changing, she couldn’t help but let her eyes linger for just a handful of moments longer than what might be considered appropriate…

Quickly, she ripped her eyes away, focusing on getting herself changed. Arthion herself chose a rugged bodysuit, a combination of grey-black and blue-grey in colour, topped off with a grey cropped jacket and leather boots similar in appearance to Valery’s own. Her outfit, whilst aesthetically pleasing, was practical, and the muted colours did much to make her less attention-grabbing.

Not that it helped that much, though. Arthion’s appearance and poised elegance still clearly marked her as a highborn—simply one dressed as a smuggler.

Her eyes flitted to Valery, pausing for a moment before clearing her throat and speaking up, the tiniest hint of a blush present on her face. “Yes, I’m ready.”

---

Valery Noble

 

[Valery Noble]

​

Outfit: Jedi Jumpsuit
Weapons: Lightsabers

Valery’s keen gaze caught the faint blush coloring Arthion's cheeks, and her lips curved into a subtle, knowing smile. She didn't comment directly, but the playful spark in her eyes suggested that she hadn't missed the way Arthion had glanced at her just moments before. With a light chuckle, she gestured toward the cockpit.

“Let’s get this mission started, shall we?” she said, leading the way with a smooth confidence. They made their way down the narrow corridor of the Bastion until they reached the cockpit, Valery taking her seat at the control panel with practiced ease.

As she leaned forward to adjust the navigation controls, her blouse shifted just enough to tease the woman, an innocent act that seemed almost purposeful. Valery glanced back over her shoulder, her expression casual, though her eyes sparkled, "Everything looks ready here."

With the engine hum settling into a steady rhythm, she activated the nav-computer, inputting their destination: Svivren, a lesser-known planet in the Outer Rim that housed scattered mining colonies and a quiet underworld presence. It was a remote world, known more for its desolate landscapes and pockets of uncharted territory than anything else — the perfect spot for hiding illegal activities.

“Svivren isn’t exactly the most famous destination,” she began, turning slightly to explain to Arthion. “It’s a quiet, out-of-the-way planet, but it's dangerously close to Sith territory. Which could explain the reports from it."

She leaned back in her seat, crossing one leg over the other as she adjusted their course. “Our job is to figure out who’s operating behind the scenes there. If we're lucky, we might be able to dismantle a piece of this new criminal network from the inside.”

Valery's gaze lingered on Arthion for a moment, her expression both warm and serious. "I think this mission will give us exactly the kind of challenge you're looking for."

Arthion Aesatra ​

 

[Arthion Aesatra]

Arthion hoped against hope that her errant gaze had somehow escaped the Grandmaster’s notice… but of course it hadn’t. Valery’s knowing smile and the teasing glint in her eyes, as well as the amusement she now felt radiating from her, told Arthion enough. Her cheeks took on a deeper red hue, her eyes quickly darting to the side in embarrassment. By the stars, this was mortifying!

She barely even noticed Valery making her way to the cockpit, looking back at her just in time to see her leave the changing quarters. With a quick shake of her head, she would follow behind, quickening her pace to catch up with the woman.

As they reached the control panels, Arthion would stand back, observing Valery take the reins. She was certainly no practiced pilot, not nearly at ease at the head of flight controls compared to her. As she observed Valery, however, the shifting blouse caught her eyes all but automatically, her gaze shifting towards it for just a moment before flitting away, a small blush once more occupying her cheeks. Ugh, Valery was going to tease her for all it was worth, wasn’t she?

Shooting a subtle glare that failed to mask her embarrassment, she crossed her arms and looked away in almost petulant fashion. It was only when Valery addressed the mission details that Arthion would look back at her again, though the remnants of her bashful annoyance yet remained in her eyes…

“I don’t generally engage in infiltration tactics, but I believe I can adapt if it does come up.” Arthion said to her. Truthfully, it required a level of deception she wasn’t all that adept in, but she was resourceful enough to make it work. “I should like to know details of relevant figures in the area, both related to our target, and other factions that might have an interest in seeing their downfall. We could come upon valuable information that way. Alternatively, simple information gathering in local cantinas might give us good leads.”

Arthion paused for a moment, then smiled. “Either way, I do believe this will be exciting.”

---

Valery Noble

 

[Valery Noble]

​

Outfit: Jedi Jumpsuit
Weapons: Lightsabers

Valery glanced back from the cockpit, catching the subtle glare and the lingering blush on Arthion's cheeks with a playful smirk. Her amber eyes sparkled with just a touch of mischief, but she allowed the moment to pass without another tease.

Listening to Arthion's ideas, Valery nodded approvingly. "Your instincts are good," she replied, turning her focus back to the controls as the ship began its smooth ascent out of Coruscant's atmosphere. "Information gathering in local cantinas will be a good start, especially since the underworld types we're looking for tend to leave their guard down in familiar places."

Her voice took on a more serious note as she continued, "As for relevant figures… our primary target is a crime lord named Kael Varros. He's been pushing a new kind of black-market tech through this sector, and I suspect he might also be conducting business with the Sith Order."

Valery's hands moved deftly over the control panel, locking in their destination. She spared a glance at Arthion, her expression a mixture of encouragement and caution. "He's well-protected and has allies who won't hesitate to get their hands dirty to keep him safe. But I suspect he's made enemies, too. Finding out who they are could give us leverage if things go south."

After a beat, her lips curved into a slight smile. "This isn't just about gathering information and laying low, though. If we're lucky, we'll find a chance to disrupt his operation from the inside. And if we need to do some infiltration… well, I'm sure you'll rise to the occasion."

Arthion Aesatra ​

 

[Arthion Aesatra]

The young Knight couldn’t help the smile that crept up on her lips at the compliment sent her way, a small tinge of warm pride burgeoning in her chest as Valery gave her approval. It pleased her to perform well, and doubly so when her performance was recognised. Though, perhaps that also was evidence of a certain level of childishness within her…

Arthion listened carefully as Valery elaborated on the mission details, a hand on her chin in thought as she mused on the matter. She was sure Valery had ample reason to suspect Sith involvement, and this crime lord’s seemingly well-entrenched position would make it a challenge to dislodge him. The enemies he did have likely weren’t powerful enough to properly challenge him, or else Valery would have made note of them. She knew this was never going to be easy, but…

“I’m beginning to see why you favour infiltration over other methods.” Arthion commented, slowly coming to the realisation that it was likely the best way. After all, even the greatest fortresses were often defenceless from the inside. “But how would we go about ingratiating ourselves to this Varros figure? A man in his position has his pick of the litter when it comes to associates, and it’s unlikely he would afford much in the way of trust to two unknown figures.”

---

Valery Noble

 

[Valery Noble]

​

Outfit: Jedi Jumpsuit
Weapons: Lightsabers

Valery's eyes glinted with quiet approval as Arthion recognized the value of infiltration. "Exactly," she replied, her tone warm yet focused. "With someone as fortified as Varros, becoming part of the inside is often the only way to reach him." But that was the hard part of this mission, and Arthion recognized as such.

Like a true Sentinel.

She paused, considering their approach. "To gain his trust, we could pose as brokers with something he'll want — knowledge of untapped markets or a lucrative deal he can't ignore. Even if he's cautious, greed has a way of winning out." She paused again, then added with a smirk, "Some charm also helps. These underworld types are easy to wrap around your fingers, most of the time."

She offered a steadying look. "Are you ready for that level of commitment? Once we get into our role, we can't allow them to find out who we really are. If they know we're Jedi, we're either dead or on the run." She suspected that Arthion understood this perfectly, but it was important to cover.

Infiltration came with great risks.

Arthion Aesatra ​

 

[Arthion Aesatra]

Arthion was silent as Valery laid down their plan of action, keeping a hand on her chin as her brow furrowed in thought. It was a sound plan, and while Arthion didn’t claim to be the best actor, she also did not come off as a Jedi in the slightest. At best, someone might think her some runaway princess who wanted to escape from her gilded cage. Perhaps it would get people to underestimate her… which might have its own advantages.

“That is a sound plan.” Arthion said with a small nod. “All the more reason to gather information. Were we to find an information broker, it would greatly facilitate knowing how to entice Varros without seeming too obvious. If we bribe the right people, we could also have them subtly spread rumours of two off-world brokers to further lend credibility to our ruse. Considering my talents, it will be easy to parse out who we can trust.” While Arthion’s empathic abilities were often more a curse than a blessing, they were absolutely crucial in scenarios where one did not know who they could trust, and had been instrumental on countless occasions.

Then, a small smile showed on her lips. “And between the two of us, I’m sure there is little we couldn’t convince people to do.”

Afterwards, though, her face grew serious and steely. Arthion was the picture of focus as Valery laid out the consequences of failure. She gave a nod, firm and resolute.

“I understand, Master. I’m ready.” She said simply, her voice unwavering. They would make it through the other side alive. They had to.

---

Valery Noble

 

[Valery Noble]

​

Outfit: Jedi Jumpsuit
Weapons: Lightsabers

Valery listened as Arthion laid out her ideas with precision and confidence, a small smile of approval tugging at her lips. "I knew you'd understand the intricacies of this," she replied warmly, the faintest glimmer of pride in her eyes.

She turned back to the controls, setting their course into the tunnel of hyperspace that now surrounded them. The stars streaked by in blinding lines, illuminating the cockpit in an ethereal glow that cast shifting shadows over their faces. The soft hum of the ship became their only sound, a brief respite as they hurtled toward their destination.

As they neared the exit point, Valery's gaze shifted from the swirling lights of hyperspace to her companion, her tone turning serious once again. "Remember, our success here depends on how well we keep up the act. But we'll be ready for anything."

A moment later, the ship's alarm chimed softly, signaling their arrival. The blue tunnel of hyperspace dissipated into the pinpricked black of space, and the planet lay before them — a murky, industrial world with cities shrouded in haze and dotted with flickering lights. Valery adjusted the controls, guiding them down through the atmosphere, and the towering spires of a crowded underworld city loomed closer with every moment.

Valery turned her gaze to Arthion, her expression a mixture of caution and determination. "Let's see if our new identities can get us close enough."

The ship landed with a soft thud, and as the engines powered down, Valery took a steadying breath, already slipping into her new role. "Ready to play the part?" she asked, a subtle smile tugging at the corners of her lips as she met Arthion's gaze. "If so, let's find a cantina."

Arthion Aesatra ​