The trials of Lore, Younglings, and Late Nights. (Theseus Reneun + Jairdain Ismet)

[Williamice2]

Theseus was at a point of mild annoyance. As he grumbled softly to himself. He had retired to bed earlier that evening. Now, it seemed too much in his mind. Was going about for him to continue his rest. As he got up off the bed and tidied it up a little. Then tossed on a pair of cobalt blue robes and black pants. As he rubbed his eyes and then stretched and yawned. He decided the library was a good place to start. Maybe he'd tire of reading books. Unlikely, though a possibility.

Besides he could kill a few birds with a single stone this route. He had time to kill, he needed to settle his mind, and he needed to research the history of his palace. As well as architectural designs. He reached out with the force and called his lightsabers to his right hand. Then separated them. Concealing them up his sleeves in his designated sheaths for them. While he began aimlessly roaming the palace. Not having had a formal tour about where everything was. He was kind of taking a guess. Unaware of what lied in store for him.

[member="Jairdain"]

 

[Jairdain]

Her son was having a restless night and his sleeping schedule was affected by his growth spurt. On top of him having a bit of a cold or virus of some kind, this was not a very good evening for her. Finally having gotten Marcus to sleep, she set Shorty (his droid) to watch over him so she could have a walk around the now sleeping palace.

She had an open line of communication with the droid if anything went wrong and she would return quickly. For now, though, she was enjoying the quiet of the palace. Letting out a sigh to help relax and clear her mind, she closed the door of their rooms and turned to just start walking.

Even though the woman was blind, she had spent a few years in this place and knew her way around. With or without the Force, she would be able to go pretty much anywhere she wanted to go.

Wearing a cloak over her pajamas, she chose not to bring her lightsaber along. If there was any place she should be safe, it was here. It didn't take her long to know there was more than just the guards were awake at this hour. Though she did not have her lightsaber with her, Jairdain was far from helpless if this person was intending any harm.

[member="Theseus Reneun"]

 

[Williamice2]

Theseus walked along the hallways. Until his attention was caught by a woman. Roughly his age also roaming the halls this evening. Instinct encouraged him to reach out and catch any force signature this individual might have. After confirming [member="Jairdain"] did indeed have a relatively strong connection to the force. Theseus then made sure he was at the very least guarded enough to draw his blades in a flash should he find need to dispatch her.

Then again when he observed her more. Noticing she appeared to be dressed for rest. He felt a little goofy at himself for such a need to act guarded. Though it didn't mean he dropped said guard. He had learned from experience appearances could be fabricated to mislead. In truth this woman might very well be the most dangerous entity present. Though there was only one true way to test that. At least sensibly test that. He'd have a hard time explaining to palace security, and more so the queen. Why he struck down a woman for no more reason than to just test a plausibility.

"Good evening, Miss." Theseus spoke going the diplomatic route. Despite his mood. His words held no indication of how he wished to proceed further. Being oftly neutral in tone. Theseus chose to force himself to relax some. "My name is Theseus. I apologize if I interrupted your stroll. I am merely new around the palace here, and am having a rough first night." He finally expressed once his mind had been set to how he wished to interact.

 

[Jairdain]

Drawing an inner guard on herself, she wasn't prepared to hear an unfamiliar, but a friendly voice in the darkness. Though she kept her guard up, she did relax slightly. Not sensing any harm intended, Jairdain was confident he meant none.

"Good evening, Theseus. I am Jairdain. You're not interrupting anything really. Just out of a brief stroll while my son sleeps."

He admitted he was new to the palace and she understood what he meant. Nodding at him, she held a hand out in a sign of introduction.

"Not able to get to sleep?"

That guard was still there, but her face and body language indicated she was a friendly and rather open person.

"Would you like something to eat or drink? I can show you where the kitchen is. Might help you feel more comfortable if you know where to get the food."

[member="Theseus Reneun"]

 

[Williamice2]

Theseus shook her hand out of respect. At which point he finally decided. Holding his guard up more so then the standard set of suspicion he naturally had. Would serve no purpose than to begin causing trouble. Theseus was not one for killing a potential asset if he could determine it was avoidable. In truth for now that was all Theseus could recognize this woman as. Lady Kay was about the only being he trusted enough to call friend. Probably because she was blunt in her intents, and though was considerate and open minded. Unwaivered from the duties of calling out wrongdoings as she saw them. If not acting upon those wrong doings.

Theseus softly chuckled as she gave her suggestion. "The pleasure of meeting you is mine. I can tell you are truly a mother. You have an oftly high aptitude to nuture. If you think a snack is the solution to..." His stomach grumbled. He paused and blinked. "Okay, might be part of the trouble. So, the kitchen would be appreciated. Though were I was originally wanting to know the location of. Would be the library. If you would please be willing to guide me, [member="Jairdain"] if it's no trouble of course." He was guessing she had an idea where it would be.

"What's the age of your son?" Theseus decided to inquire. As a means to offer polite talk. Theseus' mood slowly began to level out. Sometimes a soft natured soul had that effect on him. Heck. Trying to better himself was kind of what lead him here in the first place. So, he'd someday maybe view life with a little more respect.

 

[Jairdain]

Only her natural guard remained in place, the one that kept her deep feelings hidden. Anything on the surface would be seen and could be felt through the Force if one was inclined to reading them. Jairdain was a natural empath and saw the world through the emotions of others. She could tell now he also let his guard down but did not probe into his inner mind. It wasn't the polite thing to do and there was no need to do it.

Smiling when she heard his stomach growl, she could also tell it caught him by surprise. When he mentioned he could tell she was a mother, she nodded.

"He is three and is on a growth spurt right now. So sleep for him is rather restless and more food is needed. I was heading to the kitchen so I'll show you where that is first and then the library."

Her tone really did not leave much for him to dispute and it would up to Theseus if he followed her as she started to move away. The pace she set was slower than what it would have been in the day, but it would still accomplish the goal of reaching both the kitchen and the library.

[member="Theseus Reneun"]

 

[Williamice2]

Theseus waited a brief moment in thought. Before he decided to pursue that lady along the halls. Quickly catching up and then matching pace. If slightly behind so he didn't have to bother guessing when she was going to make a turn and risk running into him. "Has your son displayed an aptitude for the force as of yet?" He inquired. Mostly to make a note for latter. One never knows when being aware of a force sensitive youngling would come in handy. At the same time. He was no threat to the kid. Not only because he acknowledged that maternal insticts made for a fierce foe to overcome. Had Theseus desired anything as of yet from the boy. He would of guessed the odds were in the favor that Yes. The mother's force potential had manifested to some extent into the child. So, the easiest course would of been immediately subdue the mother. Deal with any father figure. Break the will of the kid and raise them as a weapon.

It was a cruel sense of logic. Though when looking at it in a term of assests and liabilities. It was also the soundest logic to go forth from. Yes. Eventually the kid would of grown into a man if fate willed it so. Though the best case scenario the kid would turn any hatred towards Theseus' enemies, with a mental barrier preventing him from discarding the only attachment he had growing up. The worse case Theseus would eventually be destroyed and his legacy would in some light live on through the machine he had manufactured from a skeleton. It would of been a win/win in either scenario. Though one was definitely preferable to the other.

At the same time. Theseus was genuine when he said he came here to better himself. Which is probably part of the reason. He was using the woman as a tool for his purposes, and not playing the longer game with the kid. In time he might even start to view the young fellow, and this lady as people. Maybe even respect the life that flowed through them, admire their thoughts and expressions of free will. As well as be humble when being offered a helping hand. Though this transition was not going to be an over the night change. [member="Jairdain"] was merely one of the many first steps. Theseus would be taking however to meet his goal.

In fact soon enough ahead a guard. Turned and took attention in Theseus and Jairdains late night expedenture. The guard seemed to tense a little. Probably a new individual working one of his first few nights. Then the guard began to approach, the two of them. Partially reading his rifle. As a display to indicate he was taking his duty seriously. "Stop and.." The man's voice was cut off by a warning growl from Theseus. Theseus as mentioned before had been in a bad mood from his restless mind.

The guard seemed however not to catch the hint. "Sir.." The man began in a more authorative tone and made a stride towards Theseus. Only to once more be abruptly cut off. As if merely turning off a lightbulb. Theseus froze the man in place. To Theseus this was a passionate and intimate application. As he felt the man's muscles extend and contract. Twitching, pulsing trying desperately to respond to their mind's commands though signals from the nerves being restrained by an overwhelming barrier locking them in place. His hand was outstretched as a controlled storm brewed in his eyes. "I made myself clear." Theseus said in a short tone. Before he forced the man into an unconscious state. The consciousness forced to flee into the depths. Then with the wave of his hand; Theseus swept the guard aside like a piece of trash, while the thud of the body hitting the walls was heard. Probably a few pops and crunches. As Theseus probably bruised if not broke some bones. Showing how apathetic Theseus could be as to so easily discard a person. Though to him the sparing of this man's life was the mercy he allowed, and in truth it partially was because he didn't wish to cause bloodshed in front of the courteous lady who was guiding him.

Theseus heaved a annoyed sigh and shook his head. "My apologies, Miss. I promise he will live." Theseus expressed. As he folded his hands in front of himself. As well as maybe learn a valuable lesson about when to and when not to confront someone.. Theseus was sure he'd get some flak from [member="Lady Kay"] for disabling and ragdolling a guard in the middle of the night. On his first night within the palace. Though again.. He'd point out the man would live, and that was a great display of restraint on his behalf as generally he would of unleashed a turrent of lightning, crushed every bone in their body.. At least most, or ran a blade through an incompetent guard's chest when they didn't take his hint.

 

[Jairdain]

She was positive he would follow her. The dark was her world and walking these familiar halls were not an issue for her. Providing him with a guide until he got used to the various ways to get around might not be a bad idea. Something she might suggest, but not at this hour.

When they rounded a corner and started down another of the hallways one of the guards on his nightly rounds approached them. Jairdain was about to wave him off when Theseus stepped forward and proceeded to knock him out with the Force. After casting him away like a rag doll, she followed him through the Force but could tell he was left alive.

"You realize there are other ways to deal with that type of situation. Right?"

If he had expected her to react in a different manner, that was fine. All she did was an attempt to cushion his collision with the wall, so he wouldn't be as hurt as he could have been. Only bruises would happen to him and not the broken bones that would have if she didn't protect him.

"We're almost at the kitchen."

[member="Theseus Reneun"]

 

[Williamice2]

Theseus simply shrugged in response to her question. Not bothering to answer it. In his mind yes. There was plenty of solutions. He could of removed limbs, fried him, crushed him, choked him, broke his spine, broke his neck, severed his head, pierced his heart, removed his organs, liquefied his organs, or ragdolled him around a few times. Those all were the quickest, most effective manners to handle a problem, when the problem refuses to acknowledge a warning. Yes, there was other more timely solutions. Though Theseus wasn't one to waste breath on words, which never should of needed wasted upon in the first place. Not when the growl should of been a strong indicator to drop the matter and move on.

"Thank you for your guidance to the kitchen." Theseus expressed calmly. When she mentioned they were nearly there. Theseus thought more upon what she stated. Then finally decided a response was only corteous. As much as he despised the thought of having to explain himself. "If an individual is not smart enough to understand a warning when it is provided, then I have no sympathy when it leads to them suffering the consequences. My mercy was that I left him in a state he can see another day, and be thankful I didn't choose to make him a corpse. If he chooses to test his luck later. I will not guarantee I will display even close to the same level of restraint as I did this evening." Theseus finally replied as he walked along. Pausing a moment as he thought more about it.

"Though I am contemplating working towards a different mindset." He added after a bit of time to decide if there was a point mentioning he was trying to slowly change his ways. Theseus struggled with anger, and that wasn't something he would fully cast aside, nor pacify in the near future. For now letting people live and learn from their injuries was his way of improving.

[member="Jairdain"]

 

[Jairdain]

"You are welcome, Theseus. If there is anything after today you find you need any assistance with, please just let me know."

It wasn't a close to the conversation or their meeting. She had to show him where the library was, but for now, it ended that aspect of things. As they walked into the kitchen, he chose to answer her question from earlier.

Listening to what he had to say, Jairdain was silent for a few minutes as she gathered up some food for herself and Marcus. Packing that into a container, she focused on him for a moment or two in silence.

"I understand if you can believe that. However, some people, especially in the middle of the night don't under growls like that as a warning. Words alone could have taken care of the situation with no need for any form of violence. That is something to consider in your pursuit of a different mindset."

[member="Theseus Reneun"]

 

[Williamice2]

Theseus wasn't sure how a growl could be perceived as anything less than a warning. Though he wasn't about to argue further on the subject. Instead quietly reflecting upon her reply. While he made himself a sandwhich to eat. Finishing it did help his mood in the slightest. Though not nearly enough for him to tolerate more guards this evening should they come about. He'd let [member="Jairdain"] handle them if they needed handling. As he would probably just attempt to well attempt and break bones. As he was pretty certain for every push he made Jairdain would pull, and Theseus wasn't going to test at what point she got fed up with his hostilities and decide to act upon them beyond a scolding.

Theseus waited for Jairdain to make towards the library. "Would you happen to know the section holding records of the palace, and information upon the infrastructure and defenses in place? I am supposed to eventually be improving upon them." Theseus expressed to her. While he followed her along. He dropped the subject of the guard entirely by this point. Dwelling upon the incident did no good for either of them. Forever flowing forward was the fate of time.

 

[Jairdain]

Generally, only animals growled and it was clear to anybody looking that Theseus wasn't one. Gathering up food that was suitable for a toddler to eat, she wrapped it up and placed it into a bag. Waiting while he fixed and ate his sandwich, he would sense no unease or even hurry from Jairdain. She was as patient as she needed to be for him and as long as Marcus wasn't getting into any mischief while she was...things would be fine.

When he finished his sandwich and they continued the shorter trek to the library and asked about the schematics.

"I find it odd that somebody new, in the middle of the night who has rather violent tendencies to ask for that specifically."

He did suggest he was going to be improving on them, but he could easily be here to get that information and sell it to somebody. Sabotage what they were working at to rebuild. To put it simply, Jairdain did not yet fully trust this man. There was another thing...

"I am not sure where those would be located honestly. I highly doubt they would be kept in such a public place though."

[member="Theseus Reneun"]

 

[Williamice2]

"Detailed schematics. Doubtful. Usually skeletal depections and general information of the designs can be found pubically. For recreational viewing. Quite frankly anything is a step more ahead. Then what I was a moment ago." Theseus replied while he followed along. Theseus was a bit agitated in her earlier statement. Though he didn't feel inclined to act upon it. One outburst was plenty for one evening. Maybe some poor recruit will find it during 'training'. Of course they'd certainly learn something from the session.

"We should establish one other thing. I might be a prick in my methods of handling people. Though I am not a Dishonest one. I loathe dishonesty, and would rightfully avoid using such a petty tactic to accomplish a goal. If I wished the palace harm. Our conversation would of evolved on a much different course. Try not to make jumpy judgements that a shady person is a liar." Theseus finally expressed his opinion. "Secondly. If you cannot trust my word for it. Lady Kay is a soft hearted person more times than not. Though she isn't an idiot. She's experienced betrayal, and I am certain if she even questioned my position here was to pull a ruse. I would of been located somewhere less... Risky." His off handed lightsaber he found it's way into his hand. So, he played around with the hilt a little as a means to reduce stress.

Theseus finally turned to studying the hallways. Done with his opinions on the matter. He was sure if [member="Jairdain"] had her own opinions. She'd voice them. Words seemed to be her preferred tools. Theseus was contemplating whether he'd bother listening. Either that or for the sake of a peaceful evening. Just let them float about the air. As he was still a little high... Well a bit frustrated with her allegations against him.

 

[Jairdain]

It was almost as if Theseus had said something magical. Not about the schematics or Lady Kay, but about himself. There was truth in what he said and Jairdain could feel it through the Force. Letting out a sigh, she stopped walking and turned to face him with a small nod. Lifting her hand above her heart for a moment before speaking, she lowered it again.

"I must apologize then. It has been difficult these past months here. You are correct in something, Lady Kay is no idiot. However, I can guide you to the library, you will still have to find what you are looking for."

Her own hand did not travel to hold or even grip her lightsaber hilt. She kept it at her side. After she spoke, she walked on after a moment or two. Soon enough they reached the now darkened library. Opening the doors for him, she motioned him in.

"Do you want to stay with you in case another guard comes by on rounds?"

[member="Theseus Reneun"]

 

[Williamice2]

Theseus was glad his words and actions. Did not spur a conflict. Neither in the conversation. Nor in a more confrontational manner. While eventually he found they were at the library. He looked around and smiled softly. He enjoyed texts. Texts meant knowledge, and knowledge was a happy place for him. Which in it's own right caused his features to relax.

He glanced over to Jair as she made her proposal. Then shook his head softly. Before he unsheathed his second blade. "I shall do my most honorable best to try and not injure another guard for the remainder of this evening. You have a youngling who is probably wondering why he hasn't been fed yet. Which you should return to. If you have concerns about the wellfare of the people around me. Feel free to check back later." He expressed and smiled softly to her.

He looked about the place. "Anyway. If you call it a night. I wish you the best." He expressed. From there setting off. On his quest to seek out the right set of knowledge. Though not unlikely getting side tracked every now and then. Whenever he found a piece of lore, or knowledge that peeked his interest.

[member="Jairdain"]