Fallenreaper

[Korriban, 6 ATC 4] Fun and Games

_{Week 7, Day 2}

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The halls of the Sith academy were filled with the typical noise which made the Falleen feel strangely nostalgic. Though he didn’t miss a single second of the harsh days as a future Sith in the academy. As he walked his eyes caught sight of various acolytes and their teachers, a group of younger acolytes were being made to spar. One of the fighters went down hard, as they took a training lightsaber to the gut which definitely left a nice bruise. An instructor ran up to the downed boy and began to scream at him, reprimanding him for failure. At the sight of the hit Zes cringed as he recalled similar blows he’d receive in mock duels during his academy days. He practically felt his skin shiver from where there had once been welts and marks from fights. He definitely didn’t miss that part of the acolyte life.

Zes was clad in his Sith robes, a stylish black outfit dotted with red stripes and markings. His lengthy braided hair was tied in a long ponytail and swayed gently with each step. Both of his lightsaber hilts were tucked tightly along his belt, unlikely to see usage while he was in the academy. As he strolled he felt eyes upon him, some from students and others from the instructors. Though none spoke out to him, he could tell they glanced at him. He presumed some of the looks were due to him being a graduated Sith while others were due to him simply being a Falleen. His people were not a common sight in the galaxy, particularly in the Sith ranks.

The assassin had come to the academy to meet with Master Qolshuz, undoubtedly to get ribbed out for his recent failures. Though how much both of the failed missions were his fault was in the air, at least the latest one involving the Republic ship raid had spun far out of his control. The woman they had ‘freed’ from the Jedi ship, Selene, was in the academy on this day. Perhaps he’d seek her out later on, if not simply to observe what she was doing now that she was in the Empire. The powerful force user intrigued him, as she likely did for many in the Empire. The dark side blanketed Korriban in its warm embrace, he was certain that Selene would flourish here and see the beauty of the Empire. His next thought came to Tishombra, the fiery redheaded Sith apprentice who had an ‘interesting’ forced partnership with during the Harvest Moon operation. Perhaps she was here as well.

The Fallen rounded a corner, passing by more Sith young and old as he walked. It was pleasing to see the academy operating at such an efficient level. They were practically flourishing with new blood, though how many would survive or more aptly thrive the academic process was an entirely different matter.

Dashara examined her fingers. They still stung from her slicing attempts on her room’s locked door and left slight redness on the tips. She hissed then tried to shake some feeling back into them. It would come in time, she knew. Until then, she had to suffer. Her green eyes studied each student as they began to file into the numerous rooms, either to study on their own or through the various Overseers.
She caught sight of one. An older male, stern and wrinkled by the years. His yellowing eyes harshly scanned down each hallway as he began to herd the remaining students into a classroom, she truly doubted they were the right ones. As he drew nearer, she quickly detoured from her original direction and ducked down an isolated hallway.

“Fuck...fuck..” She muttered under her breath, feeling the older man seem to detect her. It was times like this she wished she didn’t have the lavender coloring to her skin. Blending into a crowd was nearly impossible in certain situations.

With a hasty and well practiced grace, she managed duck into an empty classroom. She closed the door just before the Overseer spotted it. Dashara held her breath while she pushed tightly against the nearby wall. Her heart pounded in rhythm to the steps moving briskly across the marble floor. Gradually the sounds began to fade indicating she had eluded trouble for now. Cautiously, she began to open the door and peered outside.

As Zes continued his walk down the hallway he watched as a group of young students were led into a classroom by an overseer. The Sith smirked at the sight of the children being herded inside, likely to be given lessons on warfare, the Force or the Sith way of life if he were to guess. He could recall being the only green skinned child, a solitary alien in those classes amongst purebloods and humans. It often put him on the end of bullying and taunts, which he learned to first ignore then draw inspiration from. His eyes caught sight of a woman in the uniform of an acolyte, especially noticeable by her light purple complexion and her beauty.

He made direct eye contact with the peeking woman, as she popped out halfway from the room down the hallway he walked. The expression on her face indicated stress, a high level. She seemed to be up to mischief, judging by the peeking. It was not really his business as he was not part of the academy in any capacity. Still, her alluring eyes caught his own, as did her flame red hair. It seemed that stunning redheads were the theme of his recent days when it came to females.

“Are we up to no good, young Sith?” Zes asked semi seriously, a slight smirk peeking onto his dark green lips as he asked the question.

Hairs on the back of Dashara’s neck rose, her eyes snapped into Zes’ direction. In a short few moments, her vision absorbed and committed his image to memory. On any other day, she would’ve admired his features like most younger men of various races. Falleen rarely cared to stop into Little SlugLand, but she had encountered a rare few. Mostly pleasant experiences. Which would he be, she asked the question without any proper answer.

“Maybe.” Dash smirked, letting her fear and anxiety release from her. She was the master of her emotions, not the other way around.

“At least, if skipping class is counted as being bad.” She lied with the practice she earned while facing numerous criminals, clients and more.

Not a true expert, but she had enough skill to make it believable. Cautiously she stepped farther out into the hallway and cast a glance around.

“Maybe? Well I’m no overseer, I’m not going to report you or reprimand you, especially for skipping class. Its redundant type teaching at a certain level, embrace the dark side, use the force as a weapon, become powerful and use it to dominate the weak,” Zes replied, speaking to the gist of the most basic Sith teachings. “Though, I wonder why you’d be peeking out of a room like you were instead of wandering the halls or slacking off somewhere.”

He stated firmly, then took another step towards the redhead, looking her over wordlessly. Then he added another inquiry, off topic from the skipping of classes. “You’re a Zeltron aren’t you, by the way, or at least partly. I can tell by the lavender skin and that distinct red hair.”

“This place is easy to get bored in. Not much fun and very limited ways to relieve stress, so exploring seems like a better option.” Dashara answered casually as she shrugged, her lips still holding onto the smile.

“Good guess, but in this case the red hair is from my human side. Speaking of unique creatures, I have only met a few Falleen in my time. Mostly pleasant experiences, I’m happy to say.”

“My people are rare to find off our homeplanet, but those that do go offworld and explore are the more adventurous and daring kind. My world is the jewel of the galaxy, peaceful and gorgeous, many Falleen simply do not want to leave it.” He interjected, then let her continue as he spoke with a cockiness when it came to his homeworld. Zes had not been back there in a very long time.

She paused, placing her finger to her lips while her other hand held her elbow. Since you’re not an Overseer, what are you doing here? Shouldn’t you be off on a mission or something?” Dash vague recalled Apprentice Konaal’s training vids on the subject as she bullshitted her way through it in a vague way.

“It can be boring here, indeed. Once can find fun though depending on what they desire. The Sith life becomes much more interesting once one is out, unless they burn out,” The assassin stated plainly, then smirked flirtatiously at the half Zeltron. “Would be a shame if one like you didn’t make it. Zeltrons are a lot of fun, in many ways.”

Her smile didn’t waiver, at least on her face. A small tension budded in her jawline before it faded away.

“I can confidently say that this type of environment isn’t new to me. As for seeing the fun, it’s a lot harder when you have no one to show it.” She flirted back, shamelessly enjoying his attention.

“My business is my business, young Sith. Perhaps I just got back from killing a whole bunch of Jedi, or conquering a planet,” He stated with a laugh, refusing to diverge on the actual details of his most recent mission. “You do say? Walk with me They won’t yell at you if you’re with me. I bet I’m the highlight of your mundane little day anyway. I can be quite fun.”

“I’ll believe it when I see it. Lead the way.” Dash folded her hands in front of her and walked with a posture that didn’t suit her upbring on the Nar Shaddaa streets. An element trained and beaten into her from her escort days.

Her feet kept in pace with his when they walked. “Since you won’t tell me why you’re here, can you tell me more about yourself? I won’t poke, I promise.”

“Daring to ask a mysterious Sith like me for such information. I could be the kind that kicks orphans and tortures for fun,” Zes said with another laugh as they walked alongside each other. “My name is Zes, I serve the Empire in intelligence, as an assassin and spy mainly. I’ve been across the galaxy wherever I am asked to go to serve my masters. I’ve broken into heavily guarded compounds, blew up Republic bases and killed politicians as well as numerous Jedi. Before that I was a noble on my homeworld, a Sith visited the world and took me to this academy as a teenager. Since that day I’ve been a Sith.”

“What about you, my pretty Sith. What's your name? How did you end up here? Zeltrons aren’t exactly common in the Sith ranks.” The Falleen asked as he turned the questions on her, curious about the young woman. He still had to make his way to his master, but some chat would help to kill the boredom of his walk. As well as possibly lead to more ‘fun’ down the line.

"I found life is way more fun with an adrenaline rush." She ignored the little voice in her head screaming at her stupidity. Her stubbornness won out as she tucked her anxiety away and focused on the lie she had to fabricate.

Dashara knew she had to fake it well and forced her to tread a lie very close to the truth. Her feet continued to walk while she considered her words carefully, turning them over in her head before finally airing them out to dry.

"I was found on Teya VI by an Inquisitor, who informed me about imperial law. Naturally I didn't understand and was somewhat resistant. Before that I enjoyed a life of freedom among a kind hearted group who traveled a lot."

There were plenty of gaps in her simple and brief explanation. On top of that, she had managed to smoothly avoid giving her name. Dashara wondered if he would inquire about it again or simple move on.

[Deep Core to Korriban, 6 ATC 4] The Sith and the Soldier

Drey traversed the ship’s corridors, taking the shortest route possible. His boots echoed with each step and kept the relentless pace until he approached Tishomba’s quarters. With a smooth movement, his hand reached out and pressed the button. He stepped back to wait to be allowed to enter. As the seconds ticked into minutes, he shifted in place. His mind had been locked on this moment causing him enough distractions. He lingered on the sensation of making someone stronger than himself squirm and wiggle. The thought of power caused his mouth to flicker up into a smile.

"Come." Tishombra didn't mince words. She'd been looking forward to seeing Drey again. Anticipation made her smile all day.

As Drey opened the door, he was greeted with a dinner that looked like it should have been at the captain's table. Tishombra was dressed in a semi sheer navy wrap. She had something on underneath but it was obscured and not entirely visible. It seemed like the wrap floated around her.

The aroma hit him first causing Drey to inhale deeply, his mouth watered on the inside. He swallowed when his eyes shifted to Tishombra. His head visibly tilted up then down, following her subtle curves through the thin fabric. Very little was left to the imagination. At least, in his imagination after the first coupling. Words escaped him as he edged in, but the boyish smile still creep onto his face.

“I have to say, I’m liking what I’m seeing.”

Tishombra smiled. "I thought you might. Better food." She moved closer, her hair loose and swaying in time with her hips.

“Any food can be better than my cooking.” He commented, noting his bland tasting attempts to produce something edible. His eyes followed her. Absorbing each step and sway, recalling the sensation of exploring her. His upper teeth bit his lower lip while he struggled to not cover the distance she created between them.

“I see your favorite hobby is teasing the hell out of me.” Drey joked as he stepped toward the table, ready to take the nearest seat.

"I thought it was a shared hobby." Tishombra sat down in the chair opposite him and gestured to the meal. "By all means sit. You seem famished."

The meal was simple. Salad and steaks. There was a bottle of wine opened to breathe.

Drey accepted the offer as he pulled the chair out and took a seat, pushing himself into place. With a normal woman, he would’ve had her seated first. He doubted his efforts would’ve been appreciated by a Sith unless requested. They valued strength and independence, seeking company only to satisfy their lustful needs. He wondered how much of this thought rang true for Tishomba who seemed to enjoy his open affection.

Sitting straight, his eyes turned to her expecting her to join him. He had to admit the meal was better quality than those he ate with the rest of the crew. It didn’t mean it was bad, it just lacked any notable taste or texture.

"How long will you be on Korriban?" The question came out awkward and Tishombra quickly added. "You did say you were interested in the Force. I'd be willing to answer any questions on the subject. It might take more than one day to explain."

Tishombra took a bite and awaited his response. She raised her eyes to see his reaction and determine if he was interested or just making conversation. She was hoping for the former.

Drey took a moment to think. “It depends on how quickly transport is arranged and I’m needed, I have at least a week.”

He sliced a piece of the nerf steak, pausing to pop it into is month. “I learned a bit from Apprentice Terrick and Rahn, but it left a few more questions than it answered. I will admit, it’s likely harder to teach a non-force user than a force user.”

Drey knew it was best not to mention Xid’s explanations left much to desire and only gave a little understanding. The kid didn’t know how to teach anything outside his comfort zones. He chewed his piece and cut more, preventing Tishombra from inquiring about it.

"I've never tried but I like a challenge. How extensive is your knowledge? Where should I start? Anything in particular that you're dying to know? I could start there." She took a sip of wine.

“I do know you’re born with it, which is why they are looked on so highly. The details are what are difficult to grasp. My mind unfortunately also wanders into the more intimate areas, but I feel that’s best avoided.” He didn’t say it outloud, but the hint was clear. He had noted her reactions and suspected that such a topic was not approachable. Not yet.

He continued to eat his steak, the piece half gone, before he took a sip of wine.

Tishombra put the glass of wine down. "Depends on the definition of intimate. I'm sorry, the context not definition." She gestured around. "This is just as intimate a setting as torture." She indicated her right arm. "This amongst other experiences were an intimate setting. An unpleasant intimate setting. I confess I've not had a setting where it's been...pleasant. But that can change. Some things are unknown and unpredictable. Nothing ventured nothing gained.”

She leaned back and drained her glass. The subject was not a favorite of hers. She owed him and it was the first time she'd let her guard down. Mara would be so disappointed in this turn of events. Corinth would be proud. Which might not be a good thing.

She was curious about Drey. Passed over four promotions and likely would this one as well. Trained to resist the Force and apparently had a taste for danger. At least in the bedroom.

She'd have to be discreet. She didn't want to be but it would protect him more if she was. Embrus would be looking for an excuse for her failure. His life was her responsibility. His health was her responsibility. His family's welfare was her responsibility. She pushed away the train of thought she was on and looked back at Drey.

“Fair enough. It’s why I gave the option to keep it off the table. ” Drey calmly mentioned, keeping the topic light as possible.

He observed her while he continued to eat, sipping his wine. He was careful not to drink a lot. Blayse could easily down six beer bottles, but he could barely handle three. Wine wouldn’t be a good idea to risk affecting him now. He could tell she hadn’t wanted to share, drawing his mind to question why she did. Most Sith rather fabricate a lie rather than admit weakness or raw experiments of helplessness. Maybe she was more human than most Sith. At least, he hoped she was.

“So, you’ve read my file and know more about than I do of you. Mind sharing what you feel is acceptable? Let me have a bit more even playing field?”

He started on the salad as he set a portion of his steak to the side. It would be finished after the salad.

"Where to start? I come from Korriban and both of my parents are still alive as well as my brothers and sister. I'm the oldest of four and look the most like my grandmother. She was human and married into the Ferro bloodline. She was a powerful woman, and subsequently brought that power and much needed gene pool.

I was trained at an early age in the basics in the Academy and was in the top three percent of the Academy records. I am skilled in wielding two weapons, be it sabers or lightsabers. I am five and twenty. I served a previous master before Darth Embrus. Lord Rahl who was killed, likely because he was found out to be a spy and the Empire had to nab him for it. Darth Embrus stepped in and saw that there was a good Apprentice available.

I was nineteen when I earned my title. I was ten when I got my scar from Force Lightning because I corrected an Overseer. Lord Rahl was just as pleasant in more…" She shook her head. "I'm sure you don't want to know those details. That's basics. Ask what you'd like to know." Tishombra reached out and poured more wine for herself, a half glass. She raised the bottle and indicated his glass.

“Nay, I know my limit.” Drey admitted through hoping she wouldn’t take advantage of that. He knew she might later on, but he trusted she knew a line not to cross. At least, not yet.

He sat to absorb the information given to him before moving on.

“The incident earlier, when you sent me flying. You didn’t expect that, did you?”

"You're correct. That was unexpected." Tishombra sipped her wine.

“Do you know what it was?”

"I could be snarky and say the Force. Lesson one. We label powers specific to things they do. What do you think it was Corporal?" Tishombra gave him a smarmy look and swirled the wine in her glass.

“It’s nothing I’ve seen before. Considering it sounded like a scream and tossed me back, I would say Force Scream?” He took a jab at what seemed obvious, looking to her for the correct answer.

Tishombra inclined her head. "Yes. It was not a power that I knew I had."

“It seems like troopers, you can learn or have talents for certain things. I can relate to that more than blowing my enemies back with a scream.” A small chuckle rippled through his chest to spread throughout his body.

"At times they come in handy. Other times they push to the surface and you have an out of control situation."

“You only need to focus on control. Being aware is half the battle, the rest is hard work. At least from what I’ve heard.”

"I'm always in control. A skill that you seem separated from Corporal." Tishombra snarked at Drey leaning forward smiling so that her dimples flashed.

“I can name at least once, you weren’t in control. I’m sure it will turn into two before the evening is over.” He couldn’t help, but looking slightly pleased with himself. The memory was still fairly fresh in his mind. He leaned back into his chair as he finished his meal, the salad completely finished off now.

Tishombra's smile deepened and her eyes sparkled. "Promises, promises. Thankfully you have proved you're more than...equipped to back those boasts up." She rose and collected the dishes setting them in bags.

As Tish removed his plate, Drey rose to his feet. He stepped quietly behind her and gently touched her shoulders, letting his hands wander down to her waist. His body leaned into hers as his arms wrapped about her. He couldn’t wait any longer for dessert.

[Deep Core to Korriban, 6 ATC 4] The Sith and the Soldier

_{On Ship bound to Korriban, 2-3 Days after Harvest Moon Mission}

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Drey walked with purpose across the metal grates. His eyes locked on his datapad, his report checked for grammar and clarity. He spread his awareness out to note the others floating past him and avoid collision courses. He noted an error on his report then abruptly corrected it. His eyes looked up to see the mess hall coming into view, his lips curled into a smile. With a small tug at his tunic, he straightened out the wrinkles in his uniform and maintained his neat appearance. He placed the datapad into the nook of his arm while he slipped into the line. Several other officers seemed to have thought this was the best time to take a lunch break because he spotted the larger than normal number waiting to be served.

He sighed, feeling his stomach claw at him. A regret at failing to eat before the mission washed over him. All he could do was patiently wait until his turn came around. Sith were allowed to cut the line and be served first or given in their onboard quarters. Few ever decided to dine with the soldiers in their own area.

Drey couldn’t help thinking of Xid. The young Apprentice would’ve enjoyed chatting and mingling with the troopers. It had only been a bit of time, but he rolled his eyes at how much he missed the kid. Purely ridiculous.

Tishombra walked into the mess hall flipping her hair over her bare shoulder. She’d decided to wear the white leather. It had one sleeve and clung like a second skin. Her right arm was proudly displayed from the tips of her fingers to her smooth shoulder. The white on white leather looked as if it was once piece from farther off but on closer inspection it was at least two pieces. She flashed a bit of skin, just above her hip, as she flicked her hair over her shoulder.

She knew that she could jump ahead of everyone but she rarely did so. Troopers were the backbone of the Empire and she was no better than they were. Truthfully, the only thing that set her away from any of the others was the difference in her wardrobe. Or so she thought. She had the confident air of a woman who knew she was in charge but didn’t take advantage of it till someone pushed her to it or she needed to.

She raised her hands to her temples as she thought about that damned mark, Selene. Massaging her temples and ran a hand through her hair. She’d left it down after she had showered and wished she’d actually put it back into the customary high ponytail. She felt the ends tickle her sides as she shifted her hands. She had one vanity it was the pin straight, waist length, firey red hair. Well maybe her gold eyes with thick dark lashes too. And the scar. Okay maybe more than one.

Tishombra raised her arms over head and stretched out her arms and stood on tiptoes. She knew just how much skin she flashed and rolled her shoulders. She was bored and this would get her attention. Likely not conversation but at least this would take her mind off Selene. Conversation was too much to ask for sometimes.

Drey’s eyes caught the woman’s image pass him. The same flirtatious Sith who offered him a view of her ass during the mission. His eyes shifted and his peripheral caught the flash of skin. His lip twitched with a smile, enjoying the view. Noting she didn’t push forward, he shifted around to face her.

“A lovely creature like yourself doesn’t have to wait.” His voice was smooth and calm, confident in what he said. Most Sith were vain creatures, in some fashion or another. The higher ones often felt they were superior to soldiers like him, but the occasional ones learned the pleasure of his company.

Tishombra smirked at the man who called her lovely. “Thank you but I prefer to actually let the others before me take the last of this morning’s cooking so that they put out the fresher items. Besides I don’t mind waiting it allows me time to think. You look much hungrier...than myself.”

Her eyes sparkled with mischief and she bit her lip to keep from laughing. She didn’t quite succeed her shoulders shook with mirth and the silent laugh was evident in her breathing as well. She watched him from under her lashes to see his reaction to her flirting.

“Depends on the definition of hunger.” Drey fought hard not to tease too much.

He took a breath, adjusting his datapad in his arm and took a step back when the line moved. With years of training one could learn to be aware of their surroundings while never being force sensitive. It helped one survive to a ripe old age and prevent injury. He licked his lips a bit, eyeing her up without being obvious. Inside his head, he debated on how wise his next action would be.

“But yes, if I had a higher rank I would skip the line and have my meal delivered. The privacy is much better than soldiers chatting or trays thumping around. It makes you appreciate the small things in life.” He didn’t want to be too forward because a force slap hurt.

Tishombra’s eyes widened in shock just before she caught herself. He was actually daring enough to flirt back. Most people took one look at her and didn’t flirt but treated it like an interrogation. They focused on the fact that she had the scar and showed it off. He was actually reaching out. Normally she had to poke and prod the other apprentices of her master to even really get a conversation out of them. She’d actually gone in disguise once and had a decent conversation with a merchant. Honestly she couldn’t call Daymon each time she wanted a halfway decent conversation.

“Well that is something I had not thought of. But then who do I talk to? Who would you talk to? You were buried in-” She stepped closer and her hair shifted over his arm as she looked at the data pad. “Your mission report. Ah you were on the ship that Vaughn was flying.” She reached over and scrolled up. “Corporal you’re not very observant are you? You would have recognized me from that ship. Or maybe I just didn’t make that big of an impression.” She noticed the email that looked official and looked right into his eyes and smirked. They were the same height so they were eye level and she was invading his personal space. Seeing how far she could push him

“To be fair, our paths didn’t cross until we were heading back to the ship. I couldn’t afford to be distracted by your assets or I might’ve never survived to have this lovely conversation. It’s hard to keep from being trampled when your attention is admiring someone.”

His feet planted themselves, knowing she could easily toss him like a rag doll. Some Sith didn’t care about assaulting a soldier if it was ‘justified’. His eyes locked with hers, unafraid and ready for any aggression. He allowed her to invade his personal space for now. A minor offense and too petty to pick a fight over.

“If you wanted to see my datapad, you could ask. I would be willing to hand it over, My Lord.” He left the sentence shorter than he wanted, unsure of her title or her name. Sith weren’t clearly marked like himself so he used the default greeting. He hoped she wouldn’t call his bluff.

Tishombra kept her features in a smirk that really wanted to pull into a grin. He was giving as good as he got. Well up to the line and not crossing it. She’d have to see if he’d cross it at some point. He was interesting. He was different. Refreshing. “If I wanted the datapad in my hands I’d have it wouldn’t I Corporal? And as far as I know I have yet to make that title. No simply an Apprentice. For now. You’re interesting. Grab us some lunch and lets go Corporal. Let’s talk...for now. The datapad please?”

She nodded her head at the fact that the line now started with them. She smiled genuinely which brought out her dimples and made her seem less threatening. She held out her hand passively as she waited for him to hand the datapad over.

Drey wanted to curse, but he couldn’t. He set himself up for this and would face the results. Besides, his stubbornness refused to let him leave something unfinished. With a smile, he took the datapad from his arm and passed it over to her. It held everything he downloaded recently. That included the report and his personal files, including a few that went back as far as Feena. His busy duty had prevented him from copying them into datasticks then deleting the remaining ones during that time.

“As you wish, but a name would be helpful. My Apprentice doesn’t sound as formal as it does when accompanied by a name.” He passed her the datapad, careful to keep his calm and polite demeanor.

Tishombra took the datapad gently. “It would be helpful wouldn’t it my Corporal? But we’ll get to all that. Go ahead and get us something to eat.” She didn’t care if he noticed that she was being irritating or that she was actually not pissed and truly interested. She frowned as she turned away from him reading the datapad.

Drey couldn’t help but admire the view. She had a nice shape, from her bust to her hips, giving him plenty to enjoy. His attention turned back to the tray ordering the daily special. The perk about the mess hall on a ship, options were limited.

Drey Rumen. He had been married. Widowed. Young boy offspring. She wondered if he looked more like his mother or father. Tishombra pulled up some photos. The boy had much of his father in him. The boy’s hair was a touch lighter and his eyes were blue not green that his father’s were. Like jade.

She shook her head and closed the photos. His parents were still alive and probably kept the boy while Drey was away. Interesting. Where was that line? How far could she push him. How soon would he catch on that she wasn’t really serious about being overly pushy? How soon would he defuse the trap? Could he if she played with him? Or would he be too focused on the possibility of a threat?

Oh he has worked under not only Collem but Blayse Corvinian as well. He was interesting. She scanned his service record and noticed he’d been in twelve years and up for a promotion about four other times. This was the fifth.

She lead them out of the mess hall as she read and filed the information away. Her hips swayed unconsciously. She started off leading him to her quarters but soon slowed to fall into step with him as she skimmed his service record. She gave him the option of following or standing with her. The hallways became less and less crowded. “So. Corporal what did you think of the way your last assignment was handled?” Tishombra turned to him and gave him a smirk waiting for his answer.

Drey juggled two trays, his eyes watching her hips sway until she fell back. He shifted over to allow room rather than drift back. His lips frowned in thought for a moment, recalling how he hid with the mercs and the end result.

“Messy as it was, we managed to complete it. I say it was a success for the most part.” He gave his honest opinion based on his thoughts.

Tishombra tilted her head bridlike and blinked. “How would you have done it?” She wanted him to answer honestly but she had a feeling that she’d have to dig a little deeper to get him to. She reached out and her door opened for her. She walked in and sat down in one of the two chairs.

Her room was small sitting room and the bedroom separated by a half wall. She’d thought it was huge for the fact that she was an Apprentice. She wasn’t one for decorating anything so the only indication that the room was lived in was the twin sabers and twin lightsaber hilts that were on a desk attached to the half wall. She took a tray from Drey and indicated he sit.

Drey noticed the emptiness of the room, feeling it reminded him of his own. Practical and shortly lived in. A soldier’s life to its fullest. Seeing her sit, he brought the tray over to the nearby table and took a seat himself. He had been thinking the whole time over what she asked.

“Truthful? Nothing much different than Captain Corvinian. He’s bright and has a tactical head on shoulders, even when facing unknown odds. Our target was a force user which made her unpredictable and dangerous. Normal troopers have no chance in close combat at subduing her without harm. They would’ve been slaughtered.”

He paused for a breath then continued.

“The only hairy part was when we made a tactical retreat. One ship down caused numerous losses that could’ve been avoided if we left a small group behind. Mercs were also not military trained which quickly dissolved into chaos. The ending would be my only change and that is to leave a small group to secure each ship.” Drey’s eyes met herself, studying her intently.

“Yes well the end wasn’t...planned that way.” She looked up at him pausing as she took a bite. It was a normal bite. She wasn’t one to take those stupid tiny bites that a lady was supposed to unless she was at a function that she was expected to. Sometimes not even then. She swallowed and licked her bottom lip. “So leaving a group behind to be killed by the target? Make no mistake Corporal she would have. Someone that can make the dead rise and turn into walking torches? She’d have no problem dispatching a squad of troopers. Back to the point, you could make that call? Because from where I’m sitting I think you wouldn’t have.” She took another bite and eagerly awaited his answer.

She really wanted to know what he thought. How his mind worked. The more data the better and deeper she could dig to see how he ticked.

“You’re right. I would’ve likely been with them when it happened.” After seeing the woman take a bit, he began to eat his own meal. He stabbed the meat cutlet then sliced off a chunk, slipping it into his mouth. He chewed a bit then swallowed.

“Despite that, they could’ve rigged the ship to not work without the pilot. If you train someone well enough, they can resist the effects of both torture and mind manipulation. Making the ship dead in space for her as well as us if he was killed. Not perfect, but one option.” Drey didn’t mention he would’ve been laying in wait to take out Selene the moment she showed.

Tishombra smiled. “So by your logic, as brilliant as Collem is he was not as through as he should have been. I imagine that little tidbit would make someone want to hunt you down Drey. But the problem is you’ve been such a good citizen that you know for a fact that they wouldn’t go after you. You know who they’d go after don’t you? Who’d they’d send?”

Push one.

“No, Collem did the best he could in a situation he had little to no information about. I’m using information after the fact which alters my tactics. You asked what I would do differently, but that is vague enough to assume it could be based on my current knowledge. Not before.” He pointed out, taking another bite.

Tishombra laughed softly. “Semantics. You know it.”

“Knowledge is important. Being a Sith, you also are aware of this and often times value the advantage it gives you.” He had only partly finished his meal, still fixed on the conversation.

Tishombra finished pushed her tray to the side and leaned toward him. “I also know that some knowledge is dangerous and makes you a target. Do you play Sabacc Drey?”

“Only if you prove you’re someone dangerous.” He countered, knowing full well what some Sith thought little of troopers or their abilities. Few would ever expect him to have the knowledge to kill one of their own.

“Non-force sensitives aren’t much threat against the Sith. And I’ve played Sabacc a few times, but not often. It’s been a while since I last played.” He finished off his meal before gently sliding the tray toward hers.

Tishombra took his hand in hers. “How do you know your not playing right now? As for dangerous.” She stood and moved to between his legs looking down at him. “Some danger is worth it.” She caressed his face.

While she caressed Drey’s face she pushed on his perception of her. She had seen a picture of his wife. It was a matter of pushing his perceptions around, tricking his mind. She knew it wasn’t going to be easy. She ran her fingers through his hair and kept pushing. A little here. A little there.

Drey’s mind felt the pushes. Immediately his body tensed and his eyes snapped to her, his jawline tensed.

“Not this danger.” He blamed himself. He should’ve been more cautious as he rose upright, his mind trying to fight the shift in image. It hurt his heart more than he wanted to admit.

“I think we’re done here and it was nice meeting you.”

Tishombra let go. “Drey. I would give you an apology. I believe that is what it is called. I crossed a line.”

Drey considered some choice words to fling at her, but just inhaled then exhaled. Losing his temper in an enclosed room with a woman whole could fry him at any moment was a very bad idea. Especially since he got himself into it. Was Xid the only Sith he could honestly trust in this damn place?

“Look I know you’re mad. Furious. I got really pushy and oh nevermind.”

“You’re force sensitive, I’m sure you can tell mad isn’t the accurate word.” Drey’s voice fought not to harden.

“I don’t have to be sensitive in the Force to know how utterly livid you are. I wish it included time travel in my less than desirable traits at present.” She snapped and moved around him blocking the door. She’d get this apology out and see if she couldn’t at least be his friend. Wanting to be looked at the way she imagined he might have his wife just once would have been nice. She didn’t want to push too much and hurt him. She’d seen that happen before. Damned if she was going to admit that unless it was a last resort.

“If I didn’t find you appealing, I wouldn’t have been so easily lured here.” He shot back.

His hand rose to his face where he pinched his nose bridge. He continued to inhale then exhaled before speaking again.

“My wife died serving the Empire. Left to die by a Jedi during a mission. I’m a soldier who survived and was strengthened by that pain, but seeing it again won’t make me stronger now.” Drey wanted to leave as he grabbed the datapad from the bed, then moved to the door.

“I did not show you something painful to make you stronger. That was not my intention.”

“It’s better than the other options. Which is to draw out my pain, make yourself feel better or get some sense of power over me. So which is it?” Drey couldn’t pass her so he risked taking a few lumps if he could just escape this room.

“Oh yes because it’s always one of those.” She could feel something building. Something different than anger. It was like a ball of hurt, sadness, and rage deep within her. Her eyes flashed with her temper rising to match his. “You wouldn’t understand anyway” She didn’t move. Couldn’t. If she did she was afraid that she’d hurt him or that he’d walk away and she couldn’t decide which was worse.

“Then explain it. How is being my dead wife helpful? I assume you didn’t read my service record completely or you would know force tricks are less effective on me.” He crossed his arms over his chest, planting his feet into place. He wasn’t moving from the spot unless the woman threw him.

“Yes and I was arrogant enough to think I could get past those without hurting you. Needless to say, I couldn’t and I stopped. Had I been successful you wouldn’t be livid with me right now.” She paused to try and control the foreign emotion. [color=orangered]“You wouldn’t have even remembered it.”/color]

Tishombra moved away from the door so he could leave. She wrapped her arms around her stomach and turned away from him. Her voice was a whisper and sounded like she was crying. “I’m sorry Drey. Truly.”

“Frick me.” Drey growled under his breath, not enjoying a Sith breaking down.

“I would’ve been more angry if you succeed. I didn’t love my Elera because of her looks, but her personality. So the moment you opened your mouth, I would’ve known.”

He inhaled again.

“I came up here because I was curious. Where that curiosity would lead, I don’t know. Would it be a one night stand, something more, or just a conversation? I had no idea. If I wanted to be with my wife again, I would’ve let myself die back on that ship and let my parents raise my son.” He let the words sink in.

Tishombra didn’t know what was going on but the pressure only got worse as he spoke. He was right. Each word was like twisting the knife. The pain fed the rage and sadness. Something was building and she had to get him out of the room.

She nodded she was turned away holding on, pushing down the feelings as best she could. “I…” Groaning she fell to her knees. “Drey… I… something is…”

Drey tossed his datapad on the bed as he kneeled down next to her. His hand touched her back gently and his anger faded into concern. Her arms were wrapped about her stomach causing him to immediately consider poisoning. Promptly he shifted to examine her tray, noting any discoloration or odd scent. Nothing.

“All right,” he snatched the water bottle from his tray and once more lowered down to her, popping the top open. He passed it to her.

“Drink that. Inhale and exhale. See if it passes. If not, I’ll get the medical team.” Drey observed her as he tried his best to determine what was wrong.

Tiishombra nodded and took the bottle from him took a sip. Inhaled and then lost it. Her eyes going wide a look of apology. On the exhale a scream pulled from so deep within her that it was inhuman. It was as if a hand reached down and pulled out emotions of the past few minutes.

The rage, wrenching despair and pain echoed in it. It was as if the part of her that had been so filled with rage, despair at never having even a taste of what Elera had, hurt and jealousy all ripped lose in that scream and manifested itself with the Force.

[Deep Core to Korriban, 6 ATC 4] The Sith and the Soldier

TBA

[Tython, 6 ATC 2] Lo and Behold

Jaslyn hurried to the hangar her braid swinging with her long strides. Her robes swished and billowed with her movement. She’d been assigned to lead around Lo Lya’Tre before the Padawan’s master Dominik Rothul came to collect her. Jaslyn was always the type to volunteer for keeping the Younglings entertained or making it easy for new people. Her grasp of languages and empathy made it as easy as breathing. She didn’t even have to think it came to her naturally.

Jaslyn strode in just as a ship landed. She was motionless. One of the rare times that she was. She didn’t want to scare the girl by darting around. She watched as a young Bothan stepped out and Jaslyn headed over to her. “Hello. Lo Lya’Tre?”

Lo’s head jerked up from examining her feet. She took in the human woman before her, absorbing her image. Red hair flowed along the curve of the face then sweep back into a braid, contrasting with her pale skin. The tan and white traditional robes indicated she was a padawan.

Relaxing slightly, Lo broke the pause between them.

“Hello and yes. I assume you’re here to show me around?” She asked in a timid voice.

Jaslyn nodded holding out her hand to Lo.[color=yellow] “You got it. My name’s Jaslyn Dayne. You hungry? We can get something to eat if you want. Or did you have someplace special in mind?”

Lo took Jaslyn’s hand, a small smile crept to her muzzle.

“Well, I am hungry. I’ve never been here so any suggestions would be great.”

She pulled her hand back and looked about in wonder, her mind filled with questions. Immediately many of those popped off without her mind realizing it.

“How this place always looked so pretty? How long have you been here? You seem to be a padawan like me, so do you train here with your master? What is it like staying here?”

After about the fourth question, Lo abruptly stopped herself. Her right hand rose to her muzzle and she smiled sheepishly.

“I’m sorry. I got carried away.”

Jaslyn grinned at the questions. “So which one do I answer first?”

Jaslyn held back laughter in case Lo thought that Jaslyn was laughing at her. She directed the fellow Padawan to the dining hall. “Staying here is well… hard to describe. There are good points and bad points and some just neutral points. More the latter than anything else. My Master Merrian is off planet at this moment but yes I am training here. We have quite a few training facilities for all kinds of training. Force talents, lightsaber combat and more.”

At the dining hall Jaslyn lead Lo up to a counter and smiling asked for some food. “Two specials please.” Jaslyn kept her hand in Lo’s and lifted the trays with the Force. “I’ve been here for six years now and yes it’s always pretty.”

Jaslyn found them seats and sat down. She began to eat. In between bites she pondered questions for Lo. “You’re curious. Keep it. It will serve you well. Questions mean answers. Answers mean knowledge. Knowledge means understanding. But anyways...How was your ride here?” Jaslyn’s tone was genuine, open and friendly.

“Yeah, but as some of my teachers told me. A good way to temper thirst for knowledge is through observation and then asking questions. My rain of questions could be seen as rude rather than seeking understanding.” Lo explained as she began to examine the food on the tray.

Her eyes shifted from the grilled loin to fruits and vegetables. She picked a few leaves from the salad then popped it into her mouth. She listened to Jaslyn ask her about her ride as she finished the bite up, she swallowed.

“It was uneventful, but I did meet a few individuals on the ship. The gruffiest woman seemed to take a liking to me and was a bit worried. What’s your favorite thing to do around here?”

She poked her salad for a new bite.

Jaslyn smiled. “Well I like to entertain the Younglings and tell stories. But by far my favorite thing to do is work on my Forms. I’m working on my Knighthood Trials.”

“Those can be stressful.” Lo commented, her mouth still partly filled with salad.

She swallowed to clear her throat as she ran her tongue across her teeth. A wedged green disappeared from its position into her mouth.

Nodding Jasly replied with a grin. “Well nothing that is worth it isn’t. Unless you want to be a Padawan or be in the Corps. Of course you’ll do just fine.”

“I do want to be a Knight, but I still have a long way to go.” The young Bothan admitted as she turned on the chunk of meat, slicing a piece off.

The main course was her favorite part compared to the sweetness of the fruit and bland favors of the salad.

Jaslyn finished off her food and watched Lo. “So Lola. What do you like to do?” Jaslyn picked up her tray and cleared it then put it away.

“Lo.” Lo immediately corrected Jaslyn upon hearing the nickname. Her head cocked to the side, but she shrugged it off as she continued.

“I’m pretty open to many things. I think my favorite stuff is exploring new places and socializing with others. It’s fun to learn new things about someone I just met and had time to warm up to.” Lo took another bite of her meat then moved onto the fruit. The juice squirted onto her claws causing a face.

Jaslyn passed Lo a napkin careful not to laugh at the younger Padawan. “Here. Sometimes they do that.”

Lo took it and carefully began to wipe off her claw, frowning at the sensation.

“I’m not a fan of stickiness. It gets into my fur and it sticks up for days. Not a pleasant experience.”

After she finished wiping off the juice, she crumbled up the napkin and placed it on the side of her tray. She decided to avoid the fruit now.

“Want my fruit?” Lo offered nicely.

Jaslyn laughed at the mental image of Lo’s fur sticking up and quickly apologized. “I’m sorry I just got a mental picture of what you just described. I would hate for food to go to waste. I can show you to the quarters so you can wash up. If we have some time before your Master gets here I can take you on more of a tour.” Jaslyn stands and pops the fruit in her mouth chewing. She motioned to Lo and decided that they were going to see the training rooms.

“I don’t know when Master Rothul will be picking me up. According to Jedi Throne and Typhis, he’s been a bit busy. It will hopefully be within the month, but it might take longer.” Lo stated, happy to be rid of the sticky fruit.

She already had most of her main course done as she continued, still enjoying the meat.

“So, I’m not even sure what I’ll be doing until he arrives.”

“Stick with me Lola.” Jaslyn laughed at her pun. “I’m sorry I didn’t mean it quite like that. But it was funny.” Jaslyn took the other tray and cleaned it off and set it with the others.

Lo stuck out her tongue in a playful matter, following suit.

Jaslyn lead Lola down a couple of halls and to a room that was open. It had one other bed in it. “You will be sharing this room with another student. She’s not currently here. Her name is Mideo. She’s a Zabrak.”

“Wait, as in Mideo 'Mid' Benara? I actually know her from H’Ratth!” “ Lo squeaked, her voice heightened into a few octaves at the end.

Another sheepish smile spread across her face. She looked at the room noting things, but nothing stuck out to her. It was pretty plain like her own back on H’Ratth.

“I’ll have to bring in some new plants. Maybe an herb box if I’m allowed.” She glanced back to Jas, her figure having stepped in to examine her new room.

Jas patted Lo’s head. “I don’t see why not. I was going to go practice my Forms wanna come?” She asked the question because leaving Lo seemed rude. Not that she wouldn’t mind a partner. Master Merrian had been away and Jaslyn felt like she was getting rusty.

[Korriban, 6 ATC 5] Trial by Sith

Alrightyyy folks, I hate to dip out so quickly but it seems this is the best way to do it without causing too much harm to the rest of the plot, due to unforeseen circumstances I'm going to be pulling out my participation as I don't think I'll be able to give it the time it deserves and I don't want to hold anyone back

Therefore, Fallen has my permission to write out on my behalf. Thank you for having me, even for such a short time and I wish y'all the best with the rest of the story <3

@The Elvenqueen

You're officially written out, go forth and prosper my child! And kick RL's ass.

The rest of you, there's no posting order so feel free to write as you want while we wait on Apollo to kick this thing off.

[Korriban, 6 ATC 5] Trial by Sith

Dash Horizon

---

Dash glanced at the youngest’s statement. Her brows narrowed and her expression hardened, worry hidden by her stubbornness. After a moment or two, she rolled her eyes. She resumed a defensive posture, her arms crossed over her chest and side turned to the others. It allowed her to react if something unsavory happened. Movement from the corner of her eyes caused her head to jerk to the side. She spotted both the older Zabrak female tracing the temple’s etched symbols and a red Twi’Lek casually stepped out of the entrance. Dashara’s teeth gritted, her jawline tightened in suspicion. As the Twi’Lek’s glanced her way, she locked eyes and twisted into an accusing glare. Sith were known for playing dirty.

Her time with Overseer Haryss taught her that much.

Words started to raise to the edge of her throat until Mahree’s voice stopped them in their tracks. Dash blinked and refocused her attention onto her friend. Depression and regret filled her eyes, but she looked away for a second. She wanted to avoid Mahree seeing the guilt surfacing in her.

“Whatever it is, just give it everything you got. Don’t worry about me. Do whatever you need to in order to avoid getting hurt. Kay?” Dash turned back to flash her a smirk, her mask up and solid.

Any additional conversation had been drowned out when sounds of a speeder approached. It ripped across the desert landscape and kicked up dust in its wake. Gradually it came to a stop and the driver dismounted. His figure indicated male with the wide shoulders and narrow hips. He briskly walked to the edge of the gathering then patiently waited to be addressed.

Dash watched Aria Saal recognize and moved toward him, sizing his image up. A small, quiet conversation ensured. He gave her a letter which she immediately ripped the seal off. Her skin paled before she glanced at him. He nodded, confirming her concerns. With a quick gesture, she crumbled it and put it away on her belt. A cuss slipped her lips on the way back to the speeder. Her figure slipped into the front and they took off back to the academy. The sounds faded into the distance.

Outside Tomb

[Korriban] 6 ATC 4, Consequences and Motivations

Ten minutes is not very much time to many. But for Mahree, ten minutes felt like an eternity as she endured Kilian’s punishment through the use of the shock collar. He was strategic in how he worked. Ten minutes gave Dashara enough time to think over what had happened, and what could be happening to her poor friend while she waited for Kilian to arrive.

Chatting quietly to themselves while watching over the new Neophyte. As the electronic door to the combatives room opened, both straightened themselves as Overseer Haryss entered. He looked to the apprentices, then to Dash where she sat.

“Worried about your… friend?” He mocked, eyes moving from Dashara to the apprentices.

Dashara didn’t say a word. She merely tightened her jaw and kept silent, watching him carefully. She had picked a corner to ensure neither of Haryss’ dogs could surprise her. Not that they appeared to think without their ‘master’s’ commands.

Kilian chuckled at Dash’s silence. He was a little surprised at the restraint she showed, even after being pulled away from her friend and having no choice but to leave her in his hands.

“You’re not even going to ask if she’s still alive?” He asked, turning to one of his apprentices and handing them his lightsaber. He also removed the control gauntlet on his wrist, handing it over as well.
“It would be very simple, really. I could just press that little button down and leave it. She’d be dead after a few minutes of that constant stream of electricity. And you wouldn’t even know.”

“Then you lose any possible reason for me to hold back from trying to escape.” Dashara’s voice held an edge to it when she responded. She kept sitting as to show how little his taunting mattered to her.

“You can keep thinking that.” Kilian began, running a hand through his dirty blonde hair and turning to face Dash. He took a few steps towards her, his shoulders broad and squared off as he approached her. “She was weak. A means to an end you could say.” he taunted, stopping a few feet in front of Dash.
“Weak, spineless, dependent and oh so innocent. Does that sound like your friend? I just call it a waste of space.”

Kilian kept pushing, verbally, mentally. He wanted to find that tick, to see just what Mahree’s meaning was to Dash and how far she would go to defend her weaker friend. Just how much of a puppet could Mahree be used as, and when would Kilian have to push farther and try a different tactic?

Dash’s lips tightened into a line. Her anger rose in her throat before she shoved it down, pushing it back into the bottom of her stomach. Cautiously she stood upright onto her feet.

“She’s stronger than you think. If she is dead, I guess you lose your leverage.” Her eyes looked to the door then back to Kilian, studying his reaction to her obvious thoughts.

“You don’t believe me? You seem a little less worried than I would’ve thought.” He began, catching her glimpse as her eyes momentarily moved to look at the door.

Ah, yes. The exit, the way out. Just how far would she get? Would she go back for her friend?
“No matter. The weak ones always die in the first couple of days. Overseer Genbit might not be too pleased, but I’ve saved him the effort he’d have to put forth later.”

Kilian went silent for a few moments, judging Dash’s body language, her gaze, her aura. He stepped closer to the girl, testing, gauging her response. As he did this, Dash’s head snapped into his direction while she circled around and closer to the door. Kilian reach out suddenly, past her telekinetic defense, which was weakened and poorly protected, and forced her to remain still right where she was.

Quickly, Kilian moved toward Dashara, stepping right up in front of the girl. He felt an overwhelming sense of fear and anger as he approached her. He scoffed held a hand out, “It’s a pity, really. Your friend tortured and writhing, begging for mercy. Just one less pretty face around here.”

As he spoke, Kilian could feel the girl fighting back. One hand remained out, holding her in place, as the other lifted to her face. Oddly gently, smooth fingers ran themselves along her jawline and underneath her chin, fingers forcing her head up just a little more so he could see her gaze fully. “Shall we begin?”

Dash fought the trembling rippling throughout her. Her skin crawled from his touch as she continued to glare at him, still trying to fight the force holding her in place. She pressed her lips together before she voiced her thoughts of him.

“Get your fucking hand off me.” Her hand twitched causing a few deactivated training droids to rush at the Overseer’s head.

The hand along Dash’s cheek moved quickly, reaching out towards one of the apprentices. His lightsaber was pulled from their loose grasp, through the air and into his hand. He ignited it quickly, turning and slicing his blade through the three training droids in two quick, precise movements. He deactivated the lightsaber in the next moment, his head turning back to look at Dashara.

She bolted for the door. Her figure slipped around his back and the apprentices, leaving them behind her. It wouldn't stop them for long. The first one reached her in moments. His gloved hand snagged her tunic back causing Dash to stop and fling her elbow back. A sound crack indicated she scored a hit followed by a yelp. Her lips curled into a smirk while she turned back to slam her hand on the panel, the door hissing open easily.

The second apprentice pushed in to land a strike on her cheek. Dash raised an arm and redirected with the back, pushing it behind her. Her other fist shoved into the unprotected ribs. She finally kicked into the knee, bring him down to a kneeling position.

Leaving the two to nurse their wounds, she rushed out. Her hand hit the panel to prevent any of them from following her.

Kilian moved to his apprentices, watching the ordeal unfold. The door closed just as the man stepped up to it. He stood still for a moment, glancing at the younger Sith nursing their wounds. Eyes rolled slightly as he got the door open and stepped out into the hallway. All was quiet, the girl moved fast. Perfect.

Kilian took a deep breath, the chase had begun. As a Sith Assassin and now an Overseer, Kilian enjoyed a good chase.

Dash managed to slip around the corner. She jerked to a stop and pressed herself against the wall, attempting to be as small as possible. Her chest heaved up and down. Each gulp of air burned while she listened for any heavy approaching steps. When silence reaffirmed no one followed her, Dash's eyes adjusted to the darkness. She began to make her way to the surveillance room.

It took a few long hours as she tried to slice into the door's panel. Several times she got sparked causing her to jerk back, her fingers singed by the failure. Feeling the effort becoming futile, she broke away from the attempt. Sounds of feet approaching caused her to dart away to hide around a corner.

A technician leaned down to examine the damage. His hand pressed a comlink and muttered into it. He clicked it off then began to work on repairing the panel.

----------

“Apprentice Meva, move towards Mais-Ede’s room. Stay there until further orders.” Through his comlink, Kilian moved his apprentices, strategically, slowly, giving him time to think out this chase to the last detail. He’d just received word that one of the security room control panels had been tampered with. It was his charge, Dashara, no doubt. Kilian himself remained on his path, making his rounds, giving the little rat time to think through what she wanted to do.

The security room; it could reveal to her pathways through the Academy, and a way out if she knew where to look. But that’s not what she wanted access for. Was she taking such a big chance just to check up on her friend? That’s a detail Kilian wanted to find out for himself, for he could still use that bond to his advantage.

----------

Meanwhile, Dash peered around the corner. Her eyes scanned the technician occupied with the panel. With a debilitate movement, she crept toward the distracted man. Her hand reached out then gestured for a tool to snap into hand as she rushed to slam it into the side of his face. The man crumbled into a heap.

Wasting little time, she began to search his body until she found a key card. She slid it in and the door granted her access. Her eyes glanced to the evidence she needed to get rid of then sighed.

A half an hour of pulling and tugging him inside, she managed to shut the door. On the outside everything appeared untouched to avoid suspicion. With the spare cords, Dash managed to tie up the Technician to a chair and shoved him in a corner.

Her attention turned to the multiple screens facing her now. She clicked one or two buttons, causing a few holocams to flip between different areas. She caught sight of one of the apprentices standing guard at the hallway nearest Mahree. That stuck her as odd. If Mahree was dead, they would've been more busy to ensure she didn't leave rather than guard a corpse. She bit the side of her cheek before deciding something. With a bit more fiddling, her screen showed her Overseer Haryss.

The apprentice and him appeared to be in conversation. A few moments passed before the prior took off down another hallway. Dash debated on something then with tool in hand, she stabbed the panel and sabotage it. Stepping back from the sparking lock, she walked back to the technician. After a bit more picking in the pockets, she managed to find a small map covering his duties, his tool belt and the card key to the beast pens. Her smirk renewed when an idea flicked into her head.

She tightened the belt about her waist as she looked around. When Dash found the vent cover, she unbolted the fastenings and crawled in. A few marks had been made on the map to note Overseer's Haryss', his apprentices' and the beast pens' locations. All she had to do was follow it.

With an agile and practiced movement, Dash lowered herself down. She dropped soundlessly onto the floor. She ensured herself a hallway ahead of Haryss' patrolling path and nearest the beast pens. Carefully her eyes peeked around the corner to monitor his location.

“You know, young one, Despite all this trickery, I still sense that fear from you. This is not a place to make mistakes.” Kilian warned. He halted his feet, feeling Dash’s aura behind him. That anger, the hate. Not all of it created here, but Kilian knew her past may have played a role in those feelings as well.

“What else have you got planned, little rodent?” Kilian called out, turning around and facing the corner in which Dash was hiding behind.

"Why don't you try to catch me and find out? Or has your position at the Academy made you a fat and lazy Nexu?" Dash retorted as she jerked back, once more hiding herself from sight.

Kilian’s eyes narrowed as he huffed in disapproval of her comment. He said nothing further though, instead moving quickly towards the corner, towards Dash.

The moment she heard footsteps coming into her direction, she rushed away from them. Her body moved with force speed and fear, increasing her speed. As she turned on a datastik, she shot into the area of the beast pens. She swiped the keycard on the lock causing it to open. Without stopping, she shoved her way through and into the lower area. Dash stopped long enough to slam the button causing the door to hiss shut behind her. Without the keycard, it would take some time to get inside.

Stopping at the door to the lower area, Kilian nearly pulled out his lightsaber to cut the damn thing open. This chase was his idea, so he couldn’t be overly upset at the young girl’s attempt to outwit him. He opened up his complink and called for one of his apprentices to come to his position.

A few minutes went by before the door opened slightly. Kilian put both hands on either side and forced it open, stepping through and ordering his apprentice to remain at the door. He followed the stairway down into the pens, his eyes scanning the dark corridor with the cages lined on either side, bright red energy shields keeping the animals within at bay.

“You know, so far your little scheme hasn’t gone so well, has it? I mean, you told poor little Mahree you would both leave together, isn’t that what I heard? And now she’s dead, and here you are playing my little game.” Kilian called out, hearing his voice echoed through the chamber.

Dash hunched down and moved through the cages. The red floor lights and shielding illuminating her figure faintly. Just enough to see by, but only barely. Creatures began to stir from her presence causing them to growl or roar in irritation. She found the nastiest looking predator. With a slam into the control panel, she jabbed it with the slicer tool. The shielding fizzed then shut down immediately.

About the size of a cow, the serpentine body it brought its front body to raise upright. Large hulk-like arms hung down long enough to nearly drag its knuckles across the metal floor. Cracks in the platted spine glowed with red as it lowered its head in her direction. It sniffed twice before retracting back.

Dash noticed it couldn't see as she stood completely still. Its six digit hand reached only to stop short and tug across her tunic. Her held breath burned in her chest while she didn't move.

When Kilian's voice echoed in the large room, its head whipped to that direction. A rattling, quiet hiss rumbled through its throat. It slithered off on its four other legs into the raptures then vanished into the shadows.

His footfalls were near silent as Kilian made his way through the chamber, passing by cage after cage, aggravating the creatures within. A deep, rattling noise filled his head as he walked. He had a mere moment to look up before a large, six-legged, raptor-like creature dropped from the pipe and metal makings of the ceiling above. Kilian drew his saber quickly, diving to the side to avoid a strike from one of its large claws.

Bringing up his wrist to his mouth, Kilian attempted to get a message out through the comlink. The man tried to sidestep quickly as he did so, but took a hit from the large creature which threw him back before he landed on the ground.

The gauntlet on his left wrist was knocked off by the impact, his lightsaber also thrown away from him as he landed. Kilian turned quickly as the creature charged him, hand reaching out and using the Force to call his lightsaber back into his grip.

Dashara quietly made her way toward the sound of conflict. Slow and steady, she managed not to attract the beast’s attention during her trip back to the entrance. In the gloom she managed to spot the gauntlet fall off and slid against the nearest cage. Her hand stretched out to force pull it toward her.

Kilian saw the gauntlet move slightly where it lay. Looking back towards the stairway to the door, Kilian noticed Dash's dimly-lit figure. He scowled before his attention turned back to the creature attacking him. Saber back in his hand and ignited, one swing and the creature lost a clawed hand. He dove to the side to avoid another strike before the creature charged him once more, forcing Kilian to fall back to reposition himself.

Dash rushed out of the door, now empty of the apprentice. She kept moving down the opposite side from the quarters to find another vent. Careful to avoid attention or encountering additional trouble, she managed to unbolt and crawl into another shaft. She fixed the cover up and pulled out the map. With haste, she began to navigate her way back to Mahree’s quarters. Just a few feet away, Dashara exited the nearby vent.

Her hands flicked two wires together causing Mahree’s quarters to open. She quickly stepped in and shut it behind her. Dash’s eyes fell to the crumbled girl’s form. Regret and fear filled her heart causing her to find closure. She fell onto her knees then tested her friend’s pulse. After several seconds, the faint thump pressed against Dash’s fingers. Tension emotions released as she realized Overseer Haryss had lied.

A brief glance at the gauntlet told the Zeltron hybrid what she had to do and once more she rose to her feet. She peeked out through the door. Seeing the coast clear, she rushed down the hallway back to the combat room earlier. It was the last place he would assume she would revisit.

Once more in the room, she scanned for anything to help her break the gauntlet. Nothing appeared useful causing her to frown. Her hand dropped the offensive technology as her foot stomped down hard on it. A loud crack draw some peace of mind. A few more stomps later, the device was beyond repair. Nothing more than a shattered mess. Breathing hard, Dash turned on heel and went to leave.

As Dash moved to exit the door, it opened quickly. She was stopped however as a telekinetic Force wrapped itself around her throat. Walking through the door was Kilian, followed now by four other apprentices. Haryss face held a dark and dangerous expression, his eyes reflecting the fury and anger he felt towards Dash. Across the left side of his jawbone was a deep, dark cut that had been hastily cleaned of blood, but continued to bleed slightly. One other was carved into the breastplate across his chest, and no doubt would have been fatal had his armor not held.

Lifting Dash into the air slightly, he let her struggle as the group behind him followed into the room. He saw the gauntlet on the floor, smashed to pieces, destroyed. A smirk found its way to his lips as he looked back to Dash.

Dashara continued to claw at her throat as she noticed her feet dangling above the floor. Her lungs burned and threatened to explode when the helplessness set in. The anger wavered in favor of fear. Gradually the numbness started to settle in as the fight in her drained. Her panicked filled eyes began to droop.

"You will learn, quickly, who is the master, and who is the rat." Kilian started, his grip wanting to tighten, but the man knew he had to restrain himself. He suddenly released the hold he had on Dashara, letting her fall to the ground.

When Dash’s legs landed, they crumbled underneath her. She hit knees first and curled forward. The moment air hit her lungs, it felt like she was inhaling glass with each breath. Dash coughed and sputtered until the pain began to subside.

He walked up next to her then, kneeling down and putting a hand around her neck this time. He pushed her, forcing her back onto the ground so that she was looking directly up at him. He was not pushing hard, but enough to show he would take hold of her again, easily.

"You are mine. We're going to play my little game now. One where you listen, you obey, and you follow my orders like your life depends on it- because it does."

Kilian stood then, glaring down at Dash before he turned towards the door.

"Take her to her quarters," he said to the apprentices, stopping at the door and glancing back at Dashara, "Welcome to Korriban, little rat."

[Deep Core, 6 ATC 4] Mission: Harvest Moon

Collab Part 3 With Heat and Amalthia
Location Jedi Ship

Drey continued to blast away. His finger pulled the trigger and popped off another head, leaving a singed neck in its place. A foot kicked out to send the corpse. It tumbled into the others still fixed on him.

As the Sith made their way to the ship, several of the zombies turned their heads. They followed the fresh meat rushing to escape. A few stragglers still kept their attention on Drey causing the trooper to mutter a curse.

A pain seared on his unprotected calf as teeth found his flesh. Blood trickled down, but he bit his tongue to muffle his scream. He kicked back dislocating the jaw. When his leg was released, he stomped back and crushed the skull underneath his boot. Fighting through the pain, he continued forward.

Scenting blood, another chomped down on his arm. The teeth broke across the armor. His arm jerked back then elbowed the shambling carcass. His other arm whipped out a vibro-dagger and shoved through its chest. Purple light snuffed out instantly. Keeping hold on the blade, he jerked it out and continued on.

With careful and gradual effort, he arrived at the panel. He took the butt of the rifle and shattered the locked cover. Clearing the shards of glass, he noticed a corpse. He hunched down and tore the belt off. He wrapped it about a railing to fix him in place. Moment the Sith fell back into the ship, he slammed his fist on the button. The airlock doors began to rattle open as things began to slide toward it. Space sucked the air and zombies out. Their bodies lacked the strength to resist the pull while they floated into the inky darkness.

Drey held his mask tightly to his face, activating the limited oxygen inside. His fingers fisted about the belt’s leather when his feet began to float from the ground. The sucation erupted around him while it threatened to pull him into the endless abyss. After the last of the corpses flew out the airlock, Drey curled his arm and reached for the panel. Inch by inch, he reached for the button. After one last shove, his hand slammed onto the button causing the airlock to shut.

The hangar was a frenzy of combat and death as two sets of dual crimson red lightsabers lashed out through it. Carved bodies of the undead, now having achieved a true finality laid crumbled across the steel floor. Some still lived, howling in dismembered forms as they could only watch the continuing brawl. All that mattered to the rapidly moving Falleen was that they had been removed from the fight and no longer stood as obstacles to the Sith’s escape. The former soldiers and mercenaries were the first ones to fall, not even posing a match to both of the highly skilled Sith. Lightsabers now clashed, as the remaining zombified Jedi and Sith savagely attacked the two living combatants.

Zes paced backwards, twisting and contorting his body as an undead armored Sith swung madly at him. The monstrosities did not fight like true Sith or Jedi, their lightsaber motions were more akin to a club swing. There was no beautiful grace, not a hint of style to their attacks. It reminded him of a wild beast attacking its prey. A barrage of cleves, stabs and lunges. As the Sith assassin battled back the onslaught of blows he slammed both his own lightsaber blades down, plasma scorching as he then leapt upwards. He flipped above him zombified opponent and as he landed powerfully stabbed both his weapons behind him. He was rewarded with the satisfying sound of a deactivated lightsaber bouncing off the durasteel floor accompanied by a screech of final death.

He turned his entire body around as he searched for more foes to slay, but only met the alluring gaze of Tishombra as both Sith had eliminated all of their dark side possessed opponents. The Fallen stared at the gorgeous redhead for a moment, the hangar now eerily silent besides the sounds of their ignited lightsabers. Then he nodded towards her and deactivated his weapons, turning towards the vessel they had come for. A means of escape from an operation that had gone horrifically wrong. As he removed his helmet a tired smile of relief etched onto his lips.

Drey hauled himself up to spot a small group rush to the ship, their arms full with their quarry. He recognized them from the bridge. With the clock against him, he followed their lead and quickly limped back to the ship. Once inside, Drey isolated himself with the medical kit. He hoped these things weren’t contagious.

[Korriban, 6 ATC 5] Trial by Sith

Collab with Almalthia Part 2

Location: Mara`s classroom
Time: 2 days ago

“Yes. As for the individual who placed the bounty, we identified him as Ikle Garix. It also appears she has issues with being physically handled. Overseer Haryss and her got into an altercation shortly after her arrival. I was unable to collect more information over it. ” Mara moved to her desk and retrieved another datapad. Upon returning, she offered the device to Tishombra.

Tishombra took the data pad and called up the information rather quickly. "Never trust an Inquisitor to do an Apprentice's work. She was an 'escort' and Garth must be losing hand over fist if he wants a cool one thousand for her alive, preferably.”

“Or there’s something more than meets the eye. His establishment doesn’t appear to be losing any notable funds as far as the Empire can tell. Honestly, I haven’t dug too much into it.” Mara settled back in place against the counter.

Nodding Tishombra committed the information to memory. It would serve its purpose later. Knowledge is power. “Sometimes digging can reveal things that we want to keep hidden. So am I to be herding cats in this tomb?”

“Yes, that will be the outward appearing goal. I also hope to cause friction and distance between the two. I have no doubt Horizon will try to keep close to Mis-Ede, even aid her in winning to avoid punishment.”

Mara’s hand reached out to gently stroke one of her plant’s leaves. The thing shuddered with pleasure then appeared to settle down.

“I have doubts she will be affected much by the pain or aftermath.”

“Distance them. Consider it done Mara.” Tishombra touched her heart and inclined her head.

“Good.If you have nothing else you want to know, will you leave the datapad on the desk. I still need to finish trimming my plants or they will get fussy.”

Tishombra looked at Mara thoughtfully. “Is this a last resort? What have you tried?”

“We’ve only had them for four days. The last resort would be tossing them into a pit and forcing them to kill each other.” Mara pointed out and inhaled, then continued.

“Horizon has been skipping classes and proving elusive, even for Overseer Genbit. The harder we push, the more she fights back in her own ways. Pain seems to stop her from pushing a boundary too hard, but beyond that… it doesn’t seem to do much more. This includes any harm to her ‘friend’.”

She moved onto Mahree.

“Meanwhile, Mis-Ede has shut down at every attempt we made to reach her. I even sensed the younger one doing… light-sided mediation. A weak variation which according to the Inquisitor, she learned from Horizon. She was heavily punished for it.”

Her knuckles had whitened slightly before color returned, her grip loosen from the counter.

Tishombra nodded. “That doesn’t bode well. So stir up anger and fear. Make them use it. I’m not here to make friends. I’m here to take an Apprentice on worthy of a Darth.”

Tishombra was very interested in Dashara Horizon. A somewhat kindred spirit. She found herself wanting to pull for the girl. “Do you still have access to that hallucinogen?”

“Which variety? I have several.” Mara inquired, curiosity edged into her voice now. She eyed Tishombra as she wanted more details. Her figure already began to move toward her private collection of toxins.

“One that will not kill them and would make them open to suggestion. Corinth never said I can’t play games. You remember how good I am at games.” Tishombra grinned maliciously. “Lace it on a stimpack and be powerful enough to work in seconds. I think you have just the thing. Then no one dies and we drive them apart.”

Mara nodded as she looked through the numerous vials. She selected two, a small and larger one. The latter was filled with a thick liquid with a pale glow. She made a little swirl before she began to fill the smaller vial up and set it on the desk.

“I don’t have a stimpack in the room. You’ll need to get one and empty it. You have enough for three doses so use them wisely. I would suggest you not let Horizon see you use it, or she might try to overcome it.”

“Noted. They won’t be for her though. Mis-Ede…" Tishombra trailed off.

“From your mention of Overseer Genbit’s name, I figured as much. However, my warning still holds. Horizon has some attachment to Mis-Ede, but why is a mystery. They never met until they were transported to Korriban.”

Tishombra shrugged. "Might just be the fact that they were captured together and in the same vicinity." She shook her head. "Does either of them have a strong empathic signature or reason biologically to have formed this bond?"

“Horizon is a Zeltron Hybrid and seems to have a stronger than average empathic ability. It can be problematic for anyone with low mental defenses. We’ve not yet tested the full extent of her ability in this area, but I have noticed high control when it comes to her emotions.” Mara noted as she began to put her toxin away and relock the cabinet.

Tishombra's fingers flashed over the screen and called up the information on Zeltons. Reading the excerpt and nodding. "This could explain why." Tishombra handed over an in depth analysis of Zeltron physiology and possible Force deviations.

Mara took it and examined it. Her eyes rapidly brushed over the words as she digested them. A realization ignited in her eyes causing her to pass it back.

“It does. No wonder Embrus chose you as his apprentice, you never fail to go above and beyond the effort to get things done.”

Tishombra inclined her head in acknowledgement of the statement. It wasn't easy to impress Mara. Passing over a stimpack that was empty she watched Mara fill it up.

Tishombra thanked Mara and collected the hallucinogenic. She exited the room and made her way toward her quarters.