Faction Recovery and Reward

[Darth Malum of House Marr]

It was comforting in some way to be around the Kiffar once again, they were both alike in ways that their different dispositions would not initially imply, for one they were both thinkers, commiserate souls that sought their solace in silence, rather than the updraft of a thousand voices that all melded away into simply... noise.

"...Tray," Malum mused for a moment, "I enjoy it, thus I dub you so," He offered with sly smile, elbows rubbing in the nickname, as easily as they teased him at his bashfulness at the possibility of him being the guest of honour, or that of his jape regarding his droids. Truly, despite the rank which the Lieutenant Inspector held, he was too hard on himself, he might not have achieved the prestige that Malum had, but his accomplishments were nothing to scoff at.

If only Malum could convince him of that.

He narrowed his eyes beneath the mask, at the moment of panic that strummed through his cousin, following his red gaze with his own, until they landed upon a fellowed masked compatriot.

...One which Malum was still rather uncertain how to feel of.

He was unsure exactly, what to feel of the once apprentice of Kaine, he had thought their visions once aligned, he had thought themselves aligned, that despite... the difficulty upon Echnos, it had only proved his loyalty to her, coming to her aid at the nearest instance of trouble, but...

...Well Echnos no longer flew the banners of the Tsis'Kaar, and Darth Anathemous, seemed to avoid him at all costs.

It was bizarre, but, something which hopefully time would allow him to mend.

He blinked away such thoughts, as Trayze's words confronted him, narrowing them ever further at what strummed out from them, "First of all, I did not give you Besberra, you earned it, as recognised by the Assembly for your services," He parsed his lips, a common enough argument between them, that had drawn the division between them, "Nepotism... Bogan, Trayze, it is not nepotism to accept help from your family, whether you truly consider me that or not, you speak so much of family, but you refuse to seek help from me, the one who has been with you through it all... do you so believe I have anything but your best interests at heart, cuz?" The words at the end were spoken with a certain fire, that he had contained in his heart for far too long.

He softened his eyes, a glimmer of curiosity at the first of his terms, "...I can certainly undertake you in our trials, but know they are dangerous... you could die..." Especially, for all his capability, he had not yet been trained under the arts of the Tsis'Kaar, and Malum doubted he would much appreciate being taken on as an apprentice by him.

Only for his eyes to harden, as he felt the touch upon his shoulder.

And sight of a crying woman, over a corpse.

His heart sang for two different individuals, as temptation whirled to reply with the psychometric touch with his own memories, but held off.

The events of Bastion, were for him, and Quinn alone.

Malum brought out his own hand, laying it upon his cousin, "...Do not worry yourself, the... Quinn and I have a..." He reached out through the Force, feeling her presence, her vaunt of strength, "...We have a bond, that is rare in this galaxy... two scions of noble houses, there is none worthy of her."

He smiled beneath the mask, as he gazed wordlessly on towards her, a shallow whisper, the same as his words thus far, "...But maybe I can try to be."

His mind went to their first meeting, as awkward, as... strange as it had been, the Empresses' intentions for them... he had never truly given serious thought to it.

...He had never so... so wished for that outcome.

Trayze Tesar Quinn Varanin
Mentioned: Kaila Irons Darth Carnifex Srina Talon

 

[Alina Tremiru]

Alina paused as she watched Quinn. She could hear the conversations in the room. Her gaze shifted over to Malum, her head tilted to the side. "For years we stood side by side. Equals, partners. You never once looked elsewhere. Do you know why I left?" The woman lowered her hand from it's offering, chuckling. "I don't exist to those around you. Not as your girlfriend, not as your fiance. Malum believes he's your chosen suitor. Your mother sets you up with others. .. I wish you the best, Quinn. If you find someone you want to hold dear again, don't let them feel like they don't exist."

Then she turned and left. Quinn was fine, and certainly didn't need Alina with her any longer.

 

[Quinn Varanin]

//: Open //:
//: Mors Mon //:
//: Attire //:

The happiness that had swelled in her chest deflated as fast as it came. Quinn's hand fell before it was even allowed to hold Alina's. The shift happened fast, and Quinn was left confused. Alina's words echoed and replayed in her mind as she watched the blonde sanguinar walk away. Sound left her ears, replaced with the pounding of her own heart. Quinn had loved Alina for almost her entire life, and there was a part of her waiting for the woman to want her back.

The woman choked back tears; Alina never looked back at her as she left and soon was gone. Just moments before, they had seemed to be getting along, awkward, but still felt close to what it used to be. Each deep breath helped bring back the composure of a royal. She couldn't let her feelings show, not in front of those who already considered her weak. Quinn lifted her head up, her back now turned towards the direction that Alina had left in. This was the finality of something she stubbornly held onto.

Her mind mulled over the words; she. She couldn't understand why everyone else mattered when her heart should have been enough. All the publicity would only ruin things, as it had done time and time again. People knowing only made the Princess a burden. Quinn wanted to avoid all of it. She tried to keep one thing special to her and belonging to her. Yet, it still wasn't good enough.

Nothing ever seemed enough for anyone.

Quinn stood in the crowd, people carrying on with their enjoyment. A part of her was thankful people were too busy to see her heart broken again, shattered by the sharpness in Alina's words. Had the good she thought she was doing, in reality, harmed the relationship? The Princess wanted to disappear, run as far away from this place so she could be alone. Standing there, her heart continued to break, and the words repeated in her mind louder and louder. It was her fault, her sadness, and grief - it was all Quinn's fault. She had done it to herself. Breathing became difficult, and the world around her spun.

Without warning, her hands gripped the fabric of the flowing dress, lifting it enough to move quickly. One foot in front of the other with her head held up. Despite her broken heart, she was a Sith Princess and needed to remain composed, but for how long, she was unsure. The room continued to collapse around her, and her steps quickened the closer she got to the other side of the hanger. Her eyes focused on a doorway, and she soon sprinted towards it. Slipping through the door, the girl didn't even see her Mother ( Srina Talon ) and Gerwald Lechner speaking to another Darth.

Right now, the Princess wanted to be allowed to feel alone. Quinn sat on the narrow stairs, pulling her knees to her chest. Lowering her head, she cried, letting the pent-up sorrow spill in silence.

 

[Lirka Ka]

Realistically, Lirka very well could have spent the entire rest of the day starring up at her Lord and pondering her future. Dark knows she had spent enough days pondering while trapped in Wild Space, but she had come here for a purpose after all. And idle daydreaming did not accomplish much of anything at all beyond the warm fuzziness of what could be.

Freedom from socialization after her little bout with Captain Tesar had left Lirka free to pay attention to the room. She was a watcher after all, taking pace of the room as best she could till the next opportunity presented itself. And it was an oddity that had piqued the interest of the Once-Sephi, emerald lenses watching the hasty departure of Quinn Varanin

Not often you saw the Host leave with such pace.

And with the Princess’s grief, Lirka saw opportunity. While far from a stealthy creature, the mechanized warrior lurked towards the door and made her exit from the gathering. While beat as she may have tried, there was no modicum of stealth her. Metal footfalls on the floor combined with the hazy void in the force she left made Lirka’s approach a painfully obvious thing. As was her hesitation as the form of the Princess came into view, while Lirka have had some semblance of trust from Carnifex. These were new royals.

Unfamiliar royals.

And what is unfamiliar, is dangerous in the land of the Sith. It was ironic really, Lirka had more fear for her wellbeing here than she had ever had in the whole Susevfi affair. But, Lirka had told herself many a time she thing without fear. And so did she advance towards the stairs where the princess sat.

Lirka had never had gotten anywhere remotely close to meeting the dearest Princess of the Sith before her departure. And with no real good clue how to approach, she stopped a healthy enough distance away from the girl. Letting out a mechanical clear of her throat, putting her fist to her hearts and bowing her head down in submission, her voice un-augmented and as “human” as she could muster.

“Princess, I offer my dearest apologies for the intrusion. I could not help but notice, and take concern with, your distress.”

It was Lirka’s least favorite persona by far, but it was always safest to approach the unfamiliar with the face of the ever-humble Sith-Imperial stooge.

 

[Kaila Irons]

Wearing: New Dress
Tag: Tamsin Graves | Open

"I could, yes." Kaila chuckled.

"It's been much too long I'm afraid, someone always needs something, or that something needs blowing up."

She set her wine glass down, admittedly still half full, but she supposed it could be left till after the dance and of course she would know if anyone had poisoned it between now and then.

However it was then she noticed the empty glass beside it.

"Oh you poor thing... you must've needed that drink." she sighed.

A quick glance at the opposite end of the small crowd revealed an empty space between the wall of cloaked figures and the shielded hangar doors beyond, and though no dancing had begun just yet, it looked like the perfect place for she and Tamsin to begin themselves.

"Well, I warn you I have learned some new moves. I might show you up." With that she put out her hand towards Kaila. "I saw some kids at the korriban dance say this, May I have this dance Darth Anathemous?"

"Indeed you may, Lady Graves." Anathemous laughed sweetly.

She took Tamsin by the hand, lifting the hem of her dress as she walked the pair towards the crowd's edge, looking as if they were both nobles who knew more of the courtly etiquette than they really did.

"If anyone asks, we are still strong and grumpy sith, and I am simply teaching you to dance for the purpose of infiltration and matters of court or some such." she hummed with a faint but wry smile.

"That's why the Kainites taught me, anyway."

"Speaking of which, do you wish to show me something from Korriban or shall I lead?"

She asked whilst nodding to the musicians, their cue to begin playing. Perhaps it wasn't her party, though there would be no argument made to the young Sith lord who they assumed could crush their windpipes even from this distance.

Kaila however was just happy to that she and her apprentice had a break.

Finally.

​

 

[Eira Dyn]

Location: Mors Mon
Outfit: Training Gear
Equipment: Practice saber, daggers, blaster pistol
Tag: Quinn Varanin

Eira had been told that her Master was giving out rewards for those who had contributed to saving her life. It was a kind gesture but Eira believed to be too kind of a gesture. Something that was beneath Quinn in those regards, she did not need thanks from the Sith who did their duty in protecting one of their own. It was to prevent the look of weakness on the Order's behalf since if they could not protect a high ranking member from danger, how much of a threat were they to others? At least, that was the reasoning that Eira held as to why so many had come to the aid of Quinn. Though Eira also knew that her Master was someone who was well liked.

Perhaps gestures such as these reinforced that fact.

Deciding that it would be a good idea to keep an eye on her Master as well as see what this reward was all about. Eira wandered slowly on her way through the ship till she arrived at the location. It was later in the ceremony but Eira did not care about being on time, she was merely here to ensure her Master was doing okay and perhaps, if there was time. Receive this boon, whatever it was. Though Eira was unsure what boon even meant. She hadn't had the time to look up the meaning of the word, but context clues suggested present or reward.

Seeing her Master, there was a sadness, a grief to her and Eira sighed. This was meant to be a ceremony of happiness and success. Whoever decided to taint such an event was either petty or just selfish and pathetic. Especially since it had reduced her Master to this. Reaching out with the Force, Eira used telepathy to communicate with her Master. <<Stand strong. Don't let them see you cry. Whoever upset you, they want to see those tears. Close your heart to that pain. Cry in private, in the darkness. Never let the fools who wish to hurt you see that they succeeded. Wipe the tears away and show them that you are strong, determined and unbreakable.>>

Her voice was the soft, feminine tone that Eira naturally held but it was filled with determination and fierce energy of unwavering fury. She did not wish to see her Master like this and was doing what she thought would be best to encourage her Master to stand strong.

 

[Noctis]

MORS MON – HANGAR BAY – VARANIN'S SHADOW
Quinn Varanin | Rieka

Nothing much surprised the shadow. Not even the claw of a beast several times his size reaching to, in the beast's own way, gently nudge the shadow for attention. The Sentinel's gaze turned to look over his plated shoulder, staring through the visor at the creature. It possessed a, perhaps limited, vocabulary. Not a senseless beast then. His attention went past the teeth in the creature's smile but rather the upturn angle of her lips. A genuine smile and not an intimidating flash of the teeth. The body language support as much. The Sentinel nodded slowly once, almost imperceptible in movement to anyone else except the beast before turning his attention away from it.

Walking towards the banquet, the Sentinel stretched his gaze across the spread. His hand reached outward, not for a plate or small portion, but for an entire roast sitting on a platter. Perhaps it was impolite to take the whole roast and offer it towards the creature, but the Sentinel felt no guilt nor felt anything for the assembled Sith present. His mission was to oversee the festivities and maintain observatory contact with the Princess Varanin. Anything else was secondary.

Setting the plate down in front of the beast with the entire steaming roast, the Sentinel's gaze took notice of the princess's retreat from the festivities. Something had gone wrong as she was the main attraction of this event, with exception to her rescuers. It did not take listening in on the conversation nor studying her movements to know something was wrong. Even from across the room, the shadow could look into the eyes of the one that cast him.

And simply know.

With a slight bow towards the beast to excuse himself, the shadow's movements delved and danced amongst the crowd. Always following the Varanin, the Sentinel remained out of sight and soon outside the senses of all attended. He knew this facility like the back of his hand, spending a significant time studying schematics. It was required in order to know the best routes and blind spots, both for the princess's protection and his own.

While the princess sprinted through the doors toward privacy, her shadow stretched away from her and traveling along an alternate route while keeping pace with her.

Before taking his perch above her, out of sight and out of mind, casting his gaze down the stairs. His presence unnoticed, like any shadow. And he would remain such for as long as he deemed necessary. His gaze not lingering on the princess.

But instead watching for any threats, such as Lirka Ka . His eyes narrowed. With Varanin as vulnerable as she was right now, it would be easy to take advantage of her weakness. Best for him to oversee this conversation and observe where it lead.

And if it led to somewhere that was not in the best interests of the Empress's Daughter . . .

Best tread carefully.

 

[Tamsin Graves]

​

Theme: Once Upon a December
Outfit: {X}
Tags: Kaila Irons

"I am sure you will do fine, and if your bad you can just blow this place up…."

Tamsin winced as she said it was a bad jab at her master and not as funny as it was in her head or maybe it was the whole glass of wine she just downed.

"Well, it was good, I will defiantly have more it feels good to."

Tamsin was noticeably more talkative.

"If anyone asks, we are still strong and grumpy sith, and I am simply teaching you to dance for the purpose of infiltration and matters of court or some such."

"Right." Tamsin nodded in agreement as Kaila took her hand and led her out onto the dance floor. Tamsin had been so firm and confident in that moment maybe it had been the liquid courage or just the heat of the moment but now she felt a bit exposed on the dance floor like she was back on that slave stage on Tatooine.

Not sure exactly what to do first, she just blurted something out that was completely irrelevant to the matter at hand. "I realized I have never told you how I got the last name Graves. Uh maybe some other time….right dancing." She looked around at the other people dancing so elegantly, watching their footsteps glide so smoothly across the floor.

As she watched her own feet started to mimic it, she then quickly watched, and her mind mapped out the movements and how it worked precisely. "The taller person should lead; it seems to be the best method." She said with a smile looking up at Kaila showing she was playing into the grumpy sith training persona. Well except for the smile which quickly went away as she realized it was on her face.

She then reached up and put her hands on Kaila's shoulders starting out slow with the simplest of dances sway and shuffle. To ease them into it, Tamsin looking up at her sister doing her best not smile but failing. Just being here with her master, best friend, and sister she felt at home and not alone like the demon told her she be. She felt loved and cared for, even if she knew tomorrow her master would be back to serving the needs of other and blowing up worlds. A warm feeling fell over her, even if there was something seething inside her.

"I think your..." She thought for a moment for the right word to say it. "New friend will be lucky to have you, you know. Anyone would, you deserve some happiness given all that has happened in such a short time. I just wanted you know that." As smile crossed her face again but quickly vanished serious sith mode she told herself in her head.

 

[Trayze Tesar]

CURRENT MISSION - Warhorse's Respite
Immediate Goals -
1: Stand there
1.1: Look Pretty
1.2: Stand there while looking pretty
1.3: Don't fall over while standing there and looking pretty.
2: Catch up with kinsmen
2.2: Investigate the big fluffy stuffing their face with the refreshments.

BLUFOR - Darth Malum of House Marr

OPFOR - Enemy Unknown

TARGETING ACTION(S) - Darth Malum of House Marr || Noctis || Rieka || Kaila Irons || OPEN FREQUENCY

---

Air filled his lungs through his nostrils as he exhaled after a while - perhaps allowing himself the handicaps and shortcuts that allowed the users of the Force to compensate for unspoken dialogue. Malum was right, and Trayze was right and there was so much - too much to say; Until the Kiffar sensed the mood change.

When one opens oneself to the then-newly-released soul of a gal and her frankly scarily overpowered godmother, one tends to be able to pick them out in a crowd, and be especially attuned to to their presence in the Force. Several things happened, a myriad of circumstances crystalizing in a moment of action - that action being placing a hand on Malum's shoulder flowing those memories further one last time. Instances, both of interrogations or comfort, of how people when enduring heartbreak may have to endure things by themselves - so as to not put on a brave face, or feel like they "have" to be strong for someone. If the Empress has placed designs for the two to be wed, no doubt for political reasons, Trayze would like to ensure the goddaughter of the woman he solicited love advice from would be happy.

If nothing else, than he didn't want his hard work to be in vain.

There would be also another moment, Malum could sense familiarity - rivalry with another Force Dead presence that was soliciting the Princess. The message was clear, do not engage directly. Keep your ear, and give her space.

"Well, in that case." he spoke, returning the two to reality. "S'ppose you have ta' introduce me ta' the trainees." a practiced smile, and a gentle guide away from Her Highness' position - at least for now. Malum would be his own man, and Trayze wouldn't stop Malum if he genuinely loved her... all he could do was act as someone to confide in, and in some cases, corral before something unnecessarily tragic were to occur.

 

[Darth Malum of House Marr]

Events as was their wont moved quickly, as the saying of ancients prescribed when the first rains fell, they poured. Yet, most fundamental of them all was the strain on his own heart, as he parsed his lips, he felt the tug upon it, its wavering intent, a familiar touch, that of emotions not foreign in flavour, but of substance.

Feelings which did not belong to him, but which he keenly felt.

It was familiar, it was known, he was no novice to heartbreak, even as too often, it had been him to be the heartbreaker, the pressing upon his chest, the watering of his eyes, the daze of his mind. All struck him with the surprise of the fact that he was feeling them at all, as red eyes tracked the one of two, who could make him feel like this, feel... heartbroken for a heart that was not his.

His heart sank, as he saw the withdrawing Sangnir, a single hand raised in the air abandoned, as an emerald gaze he knew all too well, struggled to face the crowd or the ground, and then finally, the retreat, her dress raised by both hands, as her feet speedily took themselves out from the ball which she hosted out to the out yards.

As his heart cracked, further.

He swallowed down his emotions, closing his eyes, as the foreign emotions continued to strum heavily against his chest, as through bleary eyes, he witnessed the movement of others, a once Sephi, and a shadow, that was not one of his.

As Trayze's hand still rested on his shoulder, not only was his heart filled with foreign ailment, but now his eyes were forced to envision sights that were not born of his eyes.

"...I understand your point," Malum breathed, as still, he struggled to breathe, "But, she is not alone, she is within the clutches of the Kainite Warmachine, do you imagine she would prefer it, or a friend at this moment?" The words emerged from the pits of his stomach, held with a certain animalistic quality, as red eyes turned to face red, a certain fire in his eyes, "...I cannot leave her alone now of all moments, come with me if you wish, but I have to do this."

And with that, Malum gently pried himself away from the grip of his cousin, as careful steps took him towards the doorway, towards the stairs where absolution awaited, the caress of invisible tears down another's face so keenly felt, as the end of Lirka's words filtered through his brow, and coming over the precipice of the room's environs.

He saw her.

And he stilled.

He gazed at her unmasked, composing his face, his noble face, thin-lipped, aquiline-nosed, and ruby-eyed, all framed by his long raven locks as he took a step forward, bypassing the once Sephi, and offering a hand, "...I saw that you had a free moment, I was curious if I might have a dance this evening."

Yet his words went beyond the verbal, "...I am sorry I was not here, but I feel as you do."

Quinn Varanin Trayze Tesar Lirka Ka
Mentioned: Noctis Alina Tremiru

 

[Kaila Irons]

Wearing: New Dress
Tag: Tamsin Graves | Open
Mentioned: Quinn Varanin Srina Talon Trayze Tesar Astrid pentoghast

"Why must you tease my curiosity so?" she stifled a chuckle.

"Irons isn't my surname either, you know. Seems we both have stories left to share."

It was most unfortunate that they'd had so little time to talk. It was partially her own fault, Kaila suspected. She'd spent most of their free time training her, though she had her reasons. There was a time when she tended to make more enemies than allies, and though that time had come to an end, she always worried that Tamsin would meet stronger foes for it.

Fortunately, she was reminded, Tamsin had always been a quick learner.

"The taller person should lead; it seems to be the best method."

"Either you know more than you let on, or you've a good eye."

Kaila gave her a faint smile as the dance began, taking the lead with careful but telegraphed movements to ease both student and master into each turn and sway.

It was admittedly a little amusing, watching Tamsin reach up to her shoulders, the young Darth standing just barely less than a foot taller. Perhaps she'd try a different dance when the next song began, something her apprentice would not have to reach as high for. She was enjoying herself though, if that smile was anything to go by. That's all that mattered for the next few minutes.

"I think your..." She thought for a moment for the right word to say it. "New friend will be lucky to have you, you know. Anyone would, you deserve some happiness given all that has happened in such a short time. I just wanted you know that."

"I... I hope so."

Something a little more lively than her usual pale spread to Kaila's face.

"I just... hope I can better than I have. Everyone acts as if I was among those to save her, she speaks as though I saved her."

"I didn't."

She averted her gaze, unable to look her own apprentice in the eye.

"The nightsister mended her body, The Kiffar channeled the force into her, The Empress-"

Kaila paused, realizing that though she were speaking quietly to her student under the cover of music, she wouldn't be speaking of state secrets. She shouldn't remind the world that Quinn died in her arms, that it took The Empress herself to bring her back from the next world.

"I just held her, Tamsin. I just watched, powerless."

So many sith had gathered, unknowing that they were not here to celebrate the rescue of a princess.

But the resurrection of an imperial heir in the making.

Back from the dead.

​

 

[Quinn Varanin]

//: Lirka Ka //: Darth Malum of House Marr //:
//: Mors Mon //:
//: Attire //:

It was nice being away from everyone. At least here, she could let the pain wash over her and find a moment to breathe. The entire encounter had been so out of the blue, but maybe it was something she had suspected. Sitting in the silence, her tears slowly began to dry up as a pit formed in her stomach. This feeling was something she hated; the love that she had for Alina was gone. Whatever they had was done and over with; she needed to move on. Exhaling softly, she suddenly felt a shaking of the metallic panels of the Mors Mon. Quinn raised an eyebrow; what would be heading towards her, especially now.

Before she could think too far into it, her apprentice's thoughts gently scratched against her mind. Gently, she let the woman in and kept her superficially on the surface of her mind. The words were kind but also very Eira Dyn . Though it meant a lot that the apprentice would reach out to the Master, even if they didn't always see eye to eye, it was a small comfort the Echani needed. As she settled, the source of the previous noise finally appeared.

Blinking, Quinn let her eyes start at the metallic feet all the way up the mechanized elf. "Oh?" She kept her mouth from hanging open. Earlier in the party, Quinn had noticed the presence talking to Trayze, the man who had been part of her rescue. Smiling, Quinn nodded and wiped whatever tears lingered under her eyes. "I'm okay, I appreciate you coming to check on me. I don't think we've properly met, and I wish we were meeting under better circumstances." Quinn stood and ran her hands over the sliver dress, ensuring no wrinkles or fabric was caught. She held out her hand towards Lirka and nodded her head in a small respectful bow. She could tell the Selphi was strong, the imposing figure that easily could strike fear.

"I'm Princess Quinn Varanin," She was thankful for the Selphi's concern, having been the first one to reach out to her first. Before Quinn could say something more, the shadow ( Noctis ) following her drew closer. Her eyes watched the figure; it seemed he was focused on idling outside her vicinity. Potentially, he deserved a small pay raise for his efforts.

Still, he allowed Alina to do what she did. How dare?

A familiar feeling moved closer; she tried to keep the connection silent. Her mind quickly snapped shut, blocking her from everything and everyone around. He had been the reason that everything started; something happened in the moment it took Quinn to just feel the excitement of being asked to dance. It was so quick, and she was still trying to recover from the whiplash. However, this is the partial reason for Alina's change of thought. Malum's face showed through the doorway from behind the Selphi, he spoke, and Quinn sighed, shaking her head.

"I'm going to be honest, Lord Marr, I'm really not in the mood to dance." Quinn sighed and pushed through the small doorway back out to the party. She kept close to the wall and looked towards the Governor of Echnos ( Kaila Irons ) and her padawan ( Tamsin Graves ); she smiled, happy that at least they were having a good time. Her gaze fell back on the Dark Councilor. What was Alina talking about? She mentioned you; what were you and Trayze talking about? She wanted to ask these questions but knew it was not the time or the place. "Malum, have you met my friend here?" Quinn motioned towards Lirka and wanted to know his answers; she felt the reassurance he was offering, but right now, it was too much. Her heart was in pieces, and what she wanted was unobtainable.

 

[Trayze Tesar]

CURRENT MISSION - What is Grief...?
Immediate Goals -
1: Stand there
1.1: Look Pretty
1.2: Stand there while looking pretty
1.3: Don't fall over while standing there and looking pretty.
2: Catch up with kinsmen
2.2: Investigate the big fluffy stuffing their face with the refreshments.

BLUFOR - Darth Malum of House Marr

OPFOR - Enemy Unknown

TARGETING ACTION(S) - Darth Malum of House Marr || Quinn Varanin || Lirka Ka || OPEN FREQUENCY

---

"Bogan dammit..." Trayze exhaled through his teeth, stepping a moment behind in his shadow. Some things may never change from the outside, that an Acolyte such as he should be behind his younger and more successful cousin - yet it was just like old times, Malum getting headfirst into something that could result in tragedy, or worse, and him stepping just behind him.

He allowed himself to turn the toothy exasperation into a slight grin - it was as if they had never parted ways. But still, part of him did want to give a moment to the Princess to process; and part of him actually hoped that the Kainite Warmachine was compassionate. It was easy to hate, to declare rivalry, especially after everything that he'd seen aboard the Shackles of Ambition. But if this Empire was going to heal, he would need to allow someone the chance to prove themselves, to earn redemption through service and through sympathy.

He would not be seen, but felt, stepping out of sight and finding a perch to mirror how he had found his cousin at the beginning of these festivities. He hadn't met the Princess before the fiasco on Susefvi, and he doubted even more so that Her Highness would know him, remember him, or care for him.

Not when there was someone who she knew who wanted to help.

The Kiffar had seen all manner of arranged and spontaneous relationship, both having their own boons and maluses, so while he did his best work - out of sight, and out of mind - he would charge in should Malum require it... or if the large Sephi wanted to pick on someone her own size, or with significantly less consequences than the Empress' goddaughter.

 

[Lirka Ka]

It was the surprise that Lirka had gotten the most used to, it was almost the entire point of her metallic form: to become an unnatural, inhuman, creature imposing her raw might upon all who laid eyes upon her. Of course...that was many years ago when in the presence of Underworld trash and sniveling scoundrels not the many warriors of the Sith. The initial expression of Quinn Varanin gave the Sephi a brief amusement as she was reminded just how those unaccustomed to her armored form oft reacted. It beat the disgust she had grown so used to. Her lenses starred for a moment, studying the Princesses movements, the wiping of tears and the cleaning of her dress: a royal who gave mind to their presentation, the Once Sephi noted.

And more importantly, a nod of respect. Something Lirka had become incredibly unaccustomed to when dealing with the Sith. So often despised for her weakness in the Force, and even more importantly: her service to Carnifex. But if this royal would show even the barest hint of respect for an Imperial like herself? Lirka knew she needed this exchange to go well. The opportunity was simply too great.

As the Princess's hand extended, were Lirka playing a different persona she may have simply ignored it: but today was a day to be a humble, obedient, Imperial. Taking a step forward the Sephi came down to a knee, gently taking the Princess's hand and lowering the cold plundered-iron of her mask to it. Had she been a creature of flesh more than a creature of steel, she'd have kissed-the-metaphorical-ring. But this would have to do. She rose back to her full imposing form, letting her voice hum out of the modulators in her helm.

"It is the worst of circumstances that make the most memorable of meetings, Princess."

It was a rarity for Lirka to meet someone without it involving some sort of violence or myriad of other horrible actions she committed. She welcomed the change of pace, it was a good test.

"No, we have not. I am a foreigner to this place, truthfully. I have been...indisposed...since this Empire was but a fledgling thing. Admittedly, and with great apologies for my ignorance, I did not know of you till this whole Susevfi affair."

Indisposed, such a funny word to describe her foul, bloody, and less-than-willingly-long crusade across Wild Space. When the Princess shared her name Lirka almost hesitated for a moment, such a dangerous things names could be for a creature like herself, but it would've been even worse for her if she held that card to her chest.

"Lirka Ka."

She could've added a dozen titles, Slavemaster General, Kainite, former Moff, Butcher of Moridinae, Killer-of-Kin, Monster. But she decided to forgo all such things, perhaps the Princess had read the history books and would know her name, perhaps she did not. For what was Lirka Ka but a footnote in the boundless list of atrocities committed by Carnifex's empire?

She watched again, following the Princess's eyes ever so slightly. They weren't alone...such a thing was to be expected. And it was much to Lirka's dismay that the newest presence she heard was that of Darth Malum of House Marr , tension filled the Sephi's body at the unfortunate distant familiarity she had with the Acolyte-turned-Councilor. A Tsis'Kaar. An enemy. When Lirka had last left the Empire the Kainite had been in open conflict with their fellows, and she had been busy beating a Tsis'kaar half to death...while it seemed tension had lessened in the long years of her absence: she knew that shadowy ilk would gladly slit her throat at the first opportunity. And admittedly, as he spoke right past her: Lirka was almost insulted. Not even kind enough for a hello? Even Trayze Tesar was polite enough for that, even if she did loathe him. As they made their way back towards the party, Lirka kept a healthy distance once again: last thing she needed was to draw more ire than her existence already did.

"We met once, a long time ago. When our dear councilor was but an Acolyte fascinated by the many tales of a haggard old woman."

She may have trusted him about as much as not at all. But it paid to be polite to her superiors, even ones that she knew for one reason or another likely despised her.

"You have grown mighty, Lord. It is an honor to have known your name."

The words felt like bile coming out of her mouth, and as she gave the same courteous bow to him that she had given Quinn: it felt as though her very self was being torn apart. Oh how she loathed politicking.

 

[Tamsin Graves]

​

Theme: Once Upon a December
Outfit: {X}
Tags: Kaila Irons

Tamsin caught her sister smiling as they danced and for a moment Tamsin felt light as a feather, the weight of the world lifted off her shoulders. The demon insider and the worries for her master faded. It was just her and her favorite person in the Galaxy having a good time. Their dancing may have looked rough or awkward to others on the outside, but it didn't matter what any of them thought.

As Kaila grabbed one of her hands and gave her a little spin like she was a ballerina in a music box. Tamsin felt like they were gliding even if they stumbled or tripped it didn't matter. The questions Kaila asked for a few minutes didn't matter but as she got pulled back in from the spin the silence of the moment was broken.

"I just... hope I can better than I have. Everyone acts as if I was among those to save her, she speaks as though I saved her."

"A hero is sometimes just the one who is there, you were at their side. You rushed to save them and never thought of what you might get in return for it. Even if you weren't the one who healed themed or brought them back you were there for them through it." It was hard for Tamsin not to smile up at her master, pride swelled in her. She knew her sister someone who go to hell and back to keep those she cared about safe. Some would say it was weakness or not very sith like, but they were wrong the demon was wrong about thinking people didn't matter. Love was the most powerful emotion, it could give you the strength to keep fighting, but it could also destroy you in an instant if you weren't careful with it.

"You weren't powerless, the will wanted to break you and you didn't let it. The healers couldn't have done it without your strength of will. Without your strength of defiance against fate." Tasmin may have been blinded by the pedestal she put her sister on. Yet as she saw from the outside the will had tried to break Kaila and it almost did, but she survived and remained to fight. Her strength to fight and defy fate was part of what saved Quinn Varanin and that could not be denied.

"But to answer question from earlier, I just observed the others dancing. You did teach me to pay attention to my surroundings." Giving even more credit to her sister Tamsin hoped it wouldn't go to her head with how much she was giving her praise. That's just what the sith need another big ego. "My first job as a slave was as a grave digger. Blougah made the kids do it because he wanted us to learn about death if we disobeyed his orders. All the kids got gifted the name Graves after we graduated to new duties." Though the story seemed that it might bring down the mood, Tamsin still had a smile remaining on her face. She was not defeated by that fact she had told Kaila on Canto Bight that she was not as innocent as she seemed. The story served a purpose to circle back to her master feeling like she had been powerless. "You…we are only powerless in such moments when we give up and give in. You saved her and you saved me in your way."

 

[Kaila Irons]

Wearing: New Dress
Tag: Tamsin Graves | Open

Their dance slowed as Kaila invested all of her focus into the words of her apprentice.

There was a lot to unpack there, and the young Darth was not entirely sure if she'd been too hard on herself or if Tamsin simply though too highly of her. While she wholeheartedly believed that building trust between oneself and leadership was a valuable thing, Kaila was far from believing that she was a hero, nor certain that she even wished to be seen as such.

She would rather Tamsin, and the empire even, be able to stand on their own two feet. To become their own idols.

"The world doesn't need heroes, Tamsin. It needs results." she muttered.


Gods know there were too many who claimed to be heroes, running amuck of the galaxy, excusing their actions, their failures, on such a title. Most called themselves "Jedi".

But Tamsin reminded her why she was fighting these heroes.

"...The Will."

Fighting it had been her reason to remain in this empire for so long now. Fate. The force, whatever they wanted to call it. Yes, she remembered now, how it had stolen so much from her, punishment for using the dark arts to corrupt it to her will, a warning to those who would rebel against it's influence over their lives.

But how could she destroy something which kept her love alive, even now...?

"There have been some... developments, in our crusade, my sister in arms. I will explain away from untrusted ears."

Even she had chosen to explain amidst their gentle swaying and spinning, Kaila was unsure how exactly to describe her predicament. It wasn't exactly a betrayal of their shared ideals, for they had always known that it may be impossible to rid this galaxy of the force. But how could she explain that she wouldn't, to her most loyal follower?

Even she was still reeling from her own decision to cease such research.

"Among them, we will be working more closely with the princess," she cleared her throat.

"I will learn from her, just as you learn from me. I hope to one day be worthy of the pedestal you've put me on."

"Though I suppose it's only natural to look up to your big sister." Kaila gave her a teasing smile, taking the praise in her own way.


"You know... we do share a name, in a strange way. Not the word itself, but the meaning. We were both named for the things we've done to survive, and for enduring things which would kill most. Digging graves for the Hutts-"

she gestured to Tamsin, then to herself.

"Coating one's bones in metal for the Kainites."

"I see a lot of myself in you. I hope you know that."

​

 

[Darth Malum of House Marr]

It was with the confidence that could only be elicited with the certainty of his cousin's presence right behind that brought Malum ever forward, even as they had grown busier in their lives apart, in those moments which had mattered most, Trayze had been there. Even when all seemed lost when he was alone facing annihilation, he had held the confidence that his blood, distant as it was, separated by generations, would come to his side should he have only asked. But of course, for Malum Marr... asking, was so often more difficult than facing the great enemy alone.

Things had changed now, he knew, in his heart of hearts, that he could not be alone, to protect them all, to bring about his dream.

He needed them.

Yet, that vaunted strength was so easily stolen away from him, at the emptiness that cloyed upon his bond, that which he felt... was stolen away from him. It was an iciness upon his heart, that gazing upon her... witnessing her beauty, for the barest moment, red eyes flickered with an emotion that which he was never meant to reveal to others.

Hurt.

It was gone with a blink, as quickly as it had come, raising back his walls, closing off the tunnel of connection between them, in the way that had become far too easily practised.

"...Of course." He allowed himself to speak, as she bypassed him back through the great doorways that heralded the celebrations that had ostensibly been for her, as the Kainite hulk followed soon after. Out from his peripherals, he tracked her sight, finding...

...Perhaps Trayze had not been wrong after all.

He allowed himself a caustic breath, as he reached to his side, the copied mask of his great and famous ancestor, that which guarded him far more than the strongest plate and mail... guarded what was most important of all.

It was with a hiss that it slid back into place over his face, framed by his long raven locks, as he followed them back through the doors, he had felt the presence of Srina... perhaps there was more fruit in that direction.

Yet, as her words strummed over the air, her voice the sweetness of an apple plucked in spring, he paused those considerations, juxtaposed cleanly with the foul guttural mechanical speak of the once Sephi... that she offered him praise was surprising.

"As the Slavemaster General states, we met once years ago on Saijo, I was curious to learn about the Confederacy of Independent Systems, Moridinae, Thustra, and Darth Carnifex, along with the famous Lirka Ka. That I had the opportunity to speak to the primary source as it were, was an opportunity a young acolyte could not pass up," He breathed in... it had felt like aeons since those days, when all that he had to concern himself with was the stresses of meeting Triumvirs, of making classes, and figuring out how to take care of himself... so much had happened since then.

That he could not honestly say if it was all for good troubled him most nights.

"...I had heard rumours that you might have fallen on Jutrand, I am glad they were incorrect, your absence has been felt, as one of the highest members of our government, may I be the first to say the Order, the Empire, is glad to have you returned to us." That her return might not be in his best interest, did not deny there was some validity to his words.

War was butchery, and so often they did need their butchers, he simply sought to direct them in the correct course.

Quinn Varanin Lirka Ka Trayze Tesar
Mentioned: Srina Talon

 

[Trayze Tesar]

CURRENT MISSION - What is Grief...?
Immediate Goals -
1: Stand there
1.1: Look Pretty
1.2: Stand there while looking pretty
1.3: Don't fall over while standing there and looking pretty.
2: Catch up with kinsmen
2.2: Ensure that Darth Malum of House Marr doesn't muck it up.

BLUFOR - Darth Malum of House Marr

OPFOR - Enemy Unknown

TARGETING ACTION(S) - Darth Malum of House Marr || Quinn Varanin || Lirka Ka || OPEN FREQUENCY

---

Trayze hated being right. He really did. Pinching the bridge of his nose, he reminded himself that those who do not listen to counsel will painfully learn from it - but the pain wasn't simply inflicted upon the student, but also the one who cared for them.

He knew what was going to happen next, Quinn would delegate the burden of conversation to General Ka, and she would vanish silently to some corner to wrestle with her feelings - under the premise of "powdering her nose".

Should the Princess pass by him, Trayze would give Her Highness a sympathetic smile and a noteworthy look the other way - his aura speaking for him. He would not betray her burdens, should she desire to process them on her own. This left the others, General Ka would no doubt come to leer and continue their spat, worse would be Malum. While the Kiffar was fine with his "pride being wounded", Malum still thought him a Marr - and no kinsman of the Ravenlord would be besmirched without retribution.

Perhaps he should be adopted officially into the Marrs... or maybe he would speak to his Grandfather. It was him who brought the blood of the Marrs into the Tesars, if Grandpa Zarrick was brought back into the Marr fold - all of his family would be under their protection, and not him - and Trayze would not betray his roots.

Assuming things were to go well. Which things seldom did.