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The Sith Eternal
"You want weapons? Books are the best weapon in the world. Arm yourself!"
Posts: 74
Affiliation: Cult of Abyssos
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Post by πΏπππππππ on Jun 23, 2024 19:51:30 GMT -8
CLOSED RP
Stubbornly persistent yet patient beyond her years, Lady Chroma sat quietly with her hand still raised. She only faltered slightly when Sirrok sat beside her. Her attention flickered away from Karnac and the holo display as she beamed a welcoming smile at the younger Zabrak. Yet, careful not to accidentally interrupt Karnac, Chroma didn't say anything. She lightly bumped shoulders with the Sirrok, though, before she turned her full attention back to the Elder-Slayer.
She remained utterly oblivious to the wariness Sirrok harbored. Because what reason was there to be guarded? Especially not around (who she deemed to be) a gentle giant like Karnac.
As Karnac continued his presentation, though, she slowly lowered her hand. Amazement struck her as the answer to her question lit up on the holo display. She would ask, 'What planet is Haruun Kal, and which one is Roon? What is the route we're currently on?' It was one thing to imagine it and another to see it. At that moment, the galaxy felt so big, and she so small.
Karnac noticed her inquiring gesture and called on herβin front of everybody. But he had already addressed her unspoken question. If she had only been more patient. He even further clarified the hyperspace classes and why they were essential in determining how long the journey took.
Lady Chroma felt her cheeks flush with embarrassment. She slowly leaned behind Sirrok as if using him as a shield. She could feel the eyes of all the adults on her, looking at her, the daughter of the Archivist, everyone patiently awaiting her questionβa question suited for a young woman of her rank and place among Abyssos. She quietly whimpered, only loud enough that Sirrok maybe heard her.
"I, uh..." she stammered, buying herself some time to think of another question. "I read somewhere, some time ago, something about... umm, Sith Worlds and Sith Space. Kingdom of the Sith. Things like that..." She figured she was on to something. Maybe. "But the maps we have... er, had... if I remember correctly, they pointed elsewhere in the galaxy. At least, I think so. We're joining what's called the Sith Eternal, yes? So my question is, do you know where that is? And if so, why are we not going there?"
Or was what she read incredibly outdated? Or did she misunderstand the contents of the map and its expositions? Lady Chroma supposed she was about to find out either way. Even if Karnac didn't have an answer for her, she at least put a question out there. With that out of the way, Chroma found the strength to peek out from behind Sirrok, although smiling apologetically at him as she did. |
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Post by ππͺπ·πΓ¦πΆπΈπ·π²πΎπΆ on Jun 23, 2024 19:56:47 GMT -8
CLOSED RP
From where Pandæmonium stood, she could only make out so much of the galactic map displayed. Perhaps she was one of the few in the room who didn't pay much mind to it. To most here, the machine was an act of sorcery; thus, Karnac had their undivided attention. It was a genius tactic, she supposed. They were almost to Roon; the cultists were getting antsy. All he needed to do was distract them for a little longer.
Naturally, she caught Karnac's gesture towards her, and she understood the meaning behind it. She didn't know why he offered her thanks, though. She only wanted Sirrok to experience the awes of being a child for once instead of always being a battle-hardened warrior. Putting Sirrok's worries to rest regarding Karnac just came with the territory this time. With her arms crossed, Pandæmonium only shrugged a shoulder in return to Karnac before tilting her head towards the group who watched him expectantly. His audience awaited him. Now including Sirrok.
Of course, though, Karnac had to smile at the boy. Did he ever look at himself in a Force-forsaken mirror? The sight even caused Pandæmonium to shudder. And with a roll of her eyes, speaking a silent prayer for Sirrok's sake, the High Guard squatted down and made herself comfortable for however long this presentation would take...
But Pandæmonium's prayers weren't going to be enough. Karnac smiled at him, and Sirrok swallowed and immediately lowered his gaze as a freezing chill crawled over his spine. Instinctually, his hand found his lightsaber on his belt, like the cold metal was a reassurance that he wasn't wholly unarmed against the Elder-Slayer. Thankfully, the elder Zabrak continued addressing the masses. After a beat to calm his raging panic, Sirrok carefully glanced back up to watch the holo display zoom in and light up specifics for all to see.
Lady Chroma seemed wholly unbothered, too, which helped. Sirrok had managed a wavering smile in her direction. She seemed like her lighthearted self all up until Karnac addressed her. Sirrok's grasp on his saber's hilt tightened when Chroma whimpered and ducked behind him. And now he was the only thing between her and the Elder-Slayer. Sirrok wasn't sure why or when the air suddenly felt heavy, but even breathing felt like too much of a task.
The younger Zabrak didn't realize how tightly he gripped his weapon until Chroma finished asking her question and then managed to settle. With it, he calmed as well. Although his hand hurt a bit. At least he didn't accidentally break off a piece of it (or ignite it). He wasn't sure where her panic came from suddenly; she usually carried zero fear of the Elder-Slayer against Sirrok's better judgment. Her question seemed good to him, too. He had never learned about any of this stuff before. So nervously, Sirrok glanced back and forth between Chroma and Karnac, naturally keeping his attention more focused on the Arkanian than the Zabrak, and quietly waited for whatever answer Karnac may or may not have had. |
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Karnac
The Sith Eternal
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Post by Karnac on Jun 24, 2024 5:36:25 GMT -8
Karnac saw Sirrok drop his gaze as he smiled at the boy. Though he didn't show it when facing him, but as he turned back to the projector, his smile faded as he realized that it wouldn't be so easy to ease the boy's worries for a bit of time. The zabrak couldn't hold it against the guard though. The little bit Sirrok experienced was only during the gathering where so much carnage took place.
But Karnac pushed on with the demonstration. When he turned and saw Chroma's lowering hand when he called on her, he couldn't help but wonder what was going on. She had seemed so eager and unbothered by those around her. But she suddenly seemed to become shy and stumbled over her words as she pushed out the question. He didn't grasp it but turned his attention to the question she asked. It was a good one. Turning back to the projector, he pressed a few buttons before the area around Roon expanded a bit more.
"That is actually a good question. The Sith Eternal has been around for quite some time. Possibly even during when the Blackguard Imperium and the Resurgent Sith Conclave were active. However, where these two orders made themselves known and sought to create a great empire, the Eternal opted to remain hidden within the shadows, keeping themselves to Roon. Under the guise of an Imperial Remnant, they built connections with spice trade and other forms of investments. But as of late, they have been expanding. Starting with Roon, their reach has extended to Ryloth, Rishi, Pzob, Kamino, Hypori, Geonosis, and Eriadu." As each planet was mentioned, a new dot grew brighter to show where they were located, each being fairly close relative to each other. He then pointed to Eriadu. "As you can see, Eriadu is basically on the doorstep of Haruun Kal, probably a half day's trip at best. As you can see, this growing empire is focused around this southern corner. As for the Sith worlds..."
More buttons caused the map to shoot up to the top right-most section of the map. Certainly a fair distance away. "Once upon a time, the Sith were an actual race of beings, not a order of Force-sensitives. That didn't happen until a group of Dark Jedi arrived on Korriban, the homeworld of the race." Another dot grew brighter. In time, the Sith as we know it came to be, with a few changes here and there throughout the ages. Both the Blackguard and the Resurgent Sith had hold of them, both orders I once walked among, hence I've been to them. Outside of Korriban, there are two other major worlds besides the other hundred or so, those being Dromund Kaas and Zoist." Two more dots lit up as he mentioned them. "If the Eternal existed during this time, they didn't have the power to claim them, especially when they were so far away from their home base. If they showed up after these two orders, it still simply came to them wanting to remain hidden on a world where you'd least expect them. True, Roon is surrounded by a dust cloud called the Cloak of the Sith, so there is that, but without the navigation beacons spread throughout it, navigating it is nearly impossible. So a good place to remain hidden."
He then looked back to Chroma with a smile, wondering if he had adequately answered her questions. |
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πΏπππππππ
The Sith Eternal
"You want weapons? Books are the best weapon in the world. Arm yourself!"
Posts: 74
Affiliation: Cult of Abyssos
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Post by πΏπππππππ on Jun 26, 2024 13:42:36 GMT -8
CLOSED RP
Lady Chroma visibly sighed in relief when the Elder-Slayer validated her question. Out of the corners of her vision, she could make out a few curious and proud smiles from some adult scholars. Her attention, though, was primarily locked and focused on Karnac's explanation. Blackguard Imperium. Resurgent Sith Conclave β another group openly calling themselves Sith. How many more were there?
Chroma might have wanted to ask that question and see if Karnac knew, but she had already been taught a lesson in patience today and didn't want to be reminded. Instead, Karnac answered different questions and spoke of a different history β that of the Eternal. As he rambled off a lengthy list of planets, her eyes widened as the planets lit up on the display.
She watched Karnac closely and studied which buttons he pushed on the holo display and how it acted with the commands. The young Arkanian's head tilted curiously, and the slightest movement of her chin indicated when she was looking at the controls and when she looked back up at the Elder-Slayer.
As Karnac continued his presentation, Lady Chroma noted that he certainly had a rich history with many groups β this Blackguard and Resurgent Sith, the Eternal, and now Abyssos β and those were the only ones he spoke about in the current context. Lady Chroma wondered if he ever walked among the Jedi, or perhaps it would be better to wonder about their fallen counterparts. Those who walked among the dark side of the Force. Those questions, though, weren't relevant to the current discussion.
Luckily, that question was silenced anyway as other dots lit up on the holo display β Korriban, Dromund Kaas, and Ziost. A specific recognition seemed to flash across the young Arkanian's expression as if somewhere, sometime in her studies, she had heard those names before. She couldn't place where. Perhaps it had been those mentioned maps or something else entirely. The holo display more closely resembled what her mind's eye brought to focus, though, and that was all that mattered to her.
She beamed, grinning ear to ear, as she once more bumped against Sirrok. She giggled and nodded towards Karnac, as if in agreement with his final statement and also enthusiastically confirming that he had, in fact, more than adequately answered her question.
Like Abyssos, the Eternal had been hiding, although it was definitely a bit more in plain sight. From a small unknown village on a jungle planet to a group that occupied several, it would be an adjustment for all. However, Lady Chroma's excitement boiled over, knowing that such an extended reach meant so much more knowledge and information at her fingertips.
So, for now, she opted to remain quiet and patient until their arrival. Only then would she ask all her silent questions to the archives of the Eternal and delve and delve and delve until she found the answers to each and every one of her thousands of growing inquiries. |
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Post by ππͺπ·πΓ¦πΆπΈπ·π²πΎπΆ on Jun 26, 2024 13:53:22 GMT -8
CLOSED RP
Unlike Chroma, Sirrok was less enthusiastic. Maybe it was because the excitement of a holo display was lost on him; he had seen them before and even operated one once alongside his father. However, he also appeared to be churning with his own thoughts and questions as the planets lit up on the display. They were clearly different questions about a different facet of the facts presented. Sirrok was almost calculating something shown in the stars but left unsaid and maybe unseen by everybody else.
Usually, Sirrok would keep his mouth shut. The only one he ever opened up about these patterns he saw was Pandæmonium. Until now, she was the only one who had listened or took his questions (and, more typically, concerns) seriously. But if he preached how things were meant to be different from here on out, he needed to start acting like it, too.
"So then why would the Eternal only send a small crew to investigate the disturbance in the Force felt after Lord Tartarus's failed rite?" Sirrok spoke up suddenly, his eyes fixated on the holo display. If he was going to elaborate, he couldn't look at Karnac yet, else the fear might chase his thoughts away. "If you already have control over nearby worlds like Eriadu, would this not have been a prime opportunity to do more than just explore the source of the disturbance? Having control over a planet like Eriadu, at the crossroads of two major hyperspace routes, may have as many benefits as it does concerns." Sirrok lifted a finger, pointing out the dimmed colored lines across the map to further his claim. "Would occupying a planet nearby, just outside those crossroads, not only help expand the Eternal's rule within that pocket of space but also provide additional coverage, like a point to fall back to, if something were to happen to Eriadu one day?"
From Sirrok's point of view, Haruun Kal was nestled nicely between both routes he pointed out and thus offered an additional connection to two main thoroughfares if ever needed. Sirrok abruptly felt like he was rambling, though, and as he glanced about, so many looked at him. He even looked back at Pandæmonium, who seemed to grin proudly. Granted, Sirrok was still young and had so much to learn, but she smiled, knowing he was beginning to share his strengths with the world around him so that another might be able to mold him and help improve his skills. Nervously, Sirrok turned back and cleared his throat.
"I-I'm not saying anything will happen, E-Elder-Slayer," he quickly corrected, stammering. He forced his gaze downward, although meekly peeking up to see if he saw rage or agitation on Karnac's expression. "Eriadu just looked a little bit lonely on that part of the map, while all the other planets you mentioned are clustered together around Roon in the southern corner of the galaxy like you mentioned. So I guess a more appropriate question would be, why did you come for just Abyssos and not the whole planet when the opportunity presented itself?"
Sirrok was unaware of the planet's government outside Abyssos. Was it already occupied by a force that the Eternal didn't want to concern themselves with? He only learned of the native people and their tribes from Jaxon, and even that wasn't much. Were there any other benefits to taking Haruun Kal outside this one thing he mentioned? The occupational risks, the upkeep, economic advantages or disadvantages β all of that was a bit over the young Zabrak's head. He hadn't had a chance to learn the galactic powers currently at play, either. But he still worked up the courage to ask, so he hoped, prayed even, that Karnac would at least humor him with a serious response. |
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Karnac
The Sith Eternal
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Post by Karnac on Jun 27, 2024 6:37:20 GMT -8
Karnac turned and set is gaze upon the young arkanian, watching her face beam at the information he provided. He was glad that in the end, such knowledge satisfied her. No doubt there were many more questions brewing, but for what she wanted to know in the moment had been answered. Could he have delved even further into the knowledge he had? Could he have described the worlds further? All came with a resounding yes. Yet, he wasn't here to teach a lesson, but to provide so food for thought for the remaining trip. Perhaps stoke the fires of curiosity so that others many seek this new knowledge out and help ease them into the Eternal a bit better.
But soon enough, Sirrok spoke up, Karnac's gaze shifted as he took in his words. Just as Pandæmonium knew, the zabrak was able to slowly gather an understanding of the boy. They were certainly questions, but unlike Chroma, these came the preceptive of tactics. Why wasn't the planet claimed, what about possible future attacks, places to fall back to, and a few others. This was a child looking at different angles and seeking the most reasonable and logical approach.
Once the boy finished, Karnac gave a smirk. Turning sideways back to the projector, the screen adjusted back to Haruun Kal and the area surrounding it. "That is a rather astute observation. Eriadu does in fact sit at a crossroads, one that is rather dangerous. All lanes come from the core and don't even need to pass the majority of Eternal controlled space. The Rimma Trade Route, Hydian Way, and Triellus Trade Route all connect to it from the Core worlds." Each route mentioned lit up brighter as he mentioned them. "If an enemy was smart, they'd try and hit us from at least the path from Roon and from Haruun Kal. That would block a retreat back to our territory and deprive us of resources." Little did Karnac know of the current acquisition of Sullust just between Eriadu and Haruun Kal and future plans of expansion.
Still, Karnac gave chuckle. "However, as smart as a tactic as that is, forcing us back would also work against an enemy, because at that point, if they pushed, they'd be caught between the retreating forces and reinforcements from Roon. Properly executed, its the perfect pincer attack. But your concerns are still valid. Cut of communications prior to arrival, our own forces not anticipating an approach could easily lose the world and the forces stationed there. But, if anything, I'd view it as a kind of gate world. Not one-hundred percent accurate, but still works a bit."
He then looked back to Sirrok. "As for why not take Haruun Kal, there are a few reasons. First, since we are now pushing outwards under the guise of an Imperial Remnant, we are only just growing enough to start claiming worlds. As such, we aren't seeking an empire yet. That means we claim worlds that serve a purpose and can offer something. Mostly this is resources and industry. Currently, I do not think Haruun Kal has anything of value. True, there is something to say for its people, being all Korun are Force-sensitive. Yet, if people are the only resource, claiming the world means nothing at this stage. Could the Eternal come and enslave them and make them fight? Yes, though warriors who possess the Force may be more of a challenge than anyone would want to explore at the moment. No, in my opinion, best to leave it and its people be for now. If anything, claim it later as an empire and extend a reason for its inhabitants to want to willingly join and fight. To me, gathering slaves to fight and work is such a waste of potential. Resistant and never given a chance to bloom. When given the freedom to willingly become loyal, greatness in the individuals and the order grow. There is also the chance the Jedi might seek to return to the world. One our way to your village, we passed an old temple. While abandoned for a little while, it wasn't been vacated that long to think its been forgotten. So credit where credit is due, you all remained hidden well if to remain unnoticed by the Jedi."
He then shrugged. "Also, this was not an Eternal sanctioned mission. It was merely my own. I have goals and ambitions, much like any Sith, or person in general. My plan was to find this individual or group of great power and recruit them into the Eternal. Others have claimed worlds, resources, and slaves. I, however, desire quality. I want to bring in those with skill or potential that is yet untapped. A selfish endeavor, I know." Though it had been expressed before, he stopped himself before he rambled too far, speaking of his initial plan to offer an ultimatum to join him or die, only to be unable to follow through. He had learned the value of life and the pointlessness of wasteful killing. If I'm going to kill someone not an enemy intentionally, it has to have a reason. And though the elders had been slain, it was for his and his team's survival. Had they talked and he been denied, he would have likely walked away, knowing everyone would have been on guard and with no element of surprise, their chances of succeeding in eliminating everyone was minimal. It would have also been a waste of the knowledge and talents of Abyssos. With people slowly warming up to him and this new life, he didn't want to throw a sudden wrench into it with such words.
Looking down to Sirrok, he hoped the explanation was more than adequate. |
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Post by ππͺπ·πΓ¦πΆπΈπ·π²πΎπΆ on Jul 3, 2024 6:32:30 GMT -8
CLOSED RP
Sirrok had worked up the courage to ask his question; he had no idea that the Elder-Slayer would grace him with an answer elaborating even further than his young mind had grasped.
At first, Sirrok felt his stomach churn, as if this would become the beginning of a lecture pointing out all the issues in his 'idiotic' logic. Karnac didn't speak disparagingly towards Sirrok, though, nor did his voice ever take on a demeaning undertone. Sirrok even reminded himself of Karnac's first words to him in response: it was an astute observation. It might have taken a moment, but Sirrok's gaze eventually found Karnac. The younger Zabrak stared at the elder with the same child-like wonder that resembled something close to Chroma. Granted, he still carried a healthy amount of fear towards the man he watched slaughter the most powerful sorcerers of Abyssos. He caught on, though, what his High Guard had been telling him earlier.
The Elder-Slayer's answer more than sated Sirrok's curiosity, for now. The young Zabrak hoped this would only be the beginning of these lessons.
Pandæmonium, still crouched by the medbay door, snickered quietly to herself. Out of the masses gathered, Sirrok was the only one she cared about. Her true loyalty lay with her Guard for many years, disguised as a forced yet easily shredded facade to the Elders. She couldn't help but feel a trickle of pride as her youngest Guard finally opened up and relaxed before her eyes. The Sith would surely be cruel masters all the same. Maybe, just maybe, though, she could get those like Sirrok out of the battlefield and in with a master who could continue molding that clever brain of his.
The High Guard's grin quickly faded, though, as PandΓ¦monium caught an impending black shadow lingering on the outskirts of the lobby area. How long had Jaxon been there, lingering? He was making his rounds; she figured he would make himself known. Maybe even join her for a brief break during the presentation. Concerned stung in her chest at the sight of a trusted confidante β friend, even β standing alone, outside the pack, like a lone wolf. It wasn't so much that he remained by himself, but the way he stood. Jaxon's arms crossed over his chest, typical, but his stance was far from lazy or at ease. He looked ready to pounce at a moment's notice as if a long-forgotten anger had been agitated and stirred, roiling within him, coursing through his veins.
It may have been Sirrok's question, hinting at the idea of the Sith taking over his home planet, that sparked that fire. And it may have been Karnac's answer, enslaving versus freedom, that fought those flames enough to keep Jaxon a silent shadow at the crowd's edge. Pandæmonium sighed. They would all find their paths wherever they lay next.
Several other cultists had questions for Karnac, ranging in degree, but all relatively simple β where was this planet or that β perhaps offering a kernel of their past lives. Others just wanted to see how the holoprojector itself worked. Infinite, straightforward inquiries bored those like Lady Chroma, who eventually dozed off with her head on Sirrok's shoulder. And Sirrok sat perfectly still to not disturb her, despite his eyelids growing heavy. But Karnac was at no loss for questions quickly answered and explained until he deemed his presentation and lessons finished. |
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Karnac
The Sith Eternal
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Post by Karnac on Jul 3, 2024 20:00:42 GMT -8
After giving his explanation to Sirrok, no further questions came from the young zabrak. But further questions continued to fall upon him, far more simple requests than he just went over, mostly involving home planets and how the holoprojector worked. Before long, he had brought Chroma up and began showing her how to operate as she seemed capable of learning quickly. This proved true as she slowly starting finding the worlds people requested. Ensuring that she had things handled as well as what buttons not to push as they would reach out to particular people, he stepped back for a moment to simply watch.
In all this, he didn't notice Jaxon lingering at the outer edge of the lobby, much less pick up on the simmering anger that had been stoked beneath the mostly stoic façade. Even if he had, would he have sorted out the reason? Would he have understood what caused the fires to burn or retreat from the small conversation that had just taken place? He was certainly an unknown, one that would be hard to grasp even should he there and hard to detect when he wasn't.
Once he was sure the arkanian had a solid grasp on the projector, Karnac returned to the cockpit and took a seat. Just a little while left of the trip and they'd be able to stand on solid ground once more, breath fresher air, and stretch themselves out. Soon, they would see what would truly become of the people he harbored. |
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Post by Elarinya on Jul 16, 2024 21:29:53 GMT -8
Continued from here...It was weird being let into the lab aboard the XoXaan. Ever since she had joined the Witch Librarian back upon Dathomir, her access into this room had been restricted. A decision she had respected since she saw and understood the logic behind why the decision had been made to begin with. But even with how much things had changed, she still felt a little uncomfortable breaching this sanctum which had been denied to her. She barely caught Sirona's question as she looked around but managed to respond with a very distantYeah...She stayed near to the doors, before trying to find a seat so as to keep out of the way, barely feeling the lurch of the ship as they made the jump and started their journeyEverything still in one piece in here?
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Darth Sirona
The Sith Eternal
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Post by Darth Sirona on Jul 17, 2024 6:40:50 GMT -8
Sirona finished punching in a few notes and corrections that her staff had made in her absence. For... the... most part. There. Confusing a sample from the west side of the Valley of Dark Lords with one taken from the east side... Can you imagine? Sirona shook her head at the screen as a small smile traced her lips. Anyway, how can I assist you, Ela? The Loremaster knew that there was a lot of work waiting for her, but also wanted to show her newly minted friend, that she was trying to be a good friend back by making time for her.
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Post by Elarinya on Jul 23, 2024 23:07:09 GMT -8
She tried to show interest as she watched Sirona moving about doing her work and going on about some mislabelling of samples from separate parts of the Valley of the Dark Lords. She didn't quite understand what sort of work would require such specificity
...Of course, how dare they...
Perhaps though it was not her lack of understanding of what Sirona found exciting and interesting, but something else that was distracting her right now. She shook her head, trying to gather some focus
Admittedly, I was going to ask you if you needed help with anything? Though I suspect me not helping would be the greatest help in here...
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Darth Sirona
The Sith Eternal
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Post by Darth Sirona on Jul 26, 2024 7:15:09 GMT -8
Sirona glances up from her work and catches the self-doubt and distraction on Elarinya's face. The witch's brow furrowed as she heard her friend dismissing her own usefulness. This would not do. As the new Loremaster, it was, in part, Sirona's duty to teach. She straightens up and turns fully to face Ela. Extending her hands, as if welcoming Ela to the whole of the laboratory, Sirona says, Then I will teach you, if you wish to learn. What within my lab catches your eye, and we will start there. The lab was full of different objects from all different forms of scientific fields. From Biology, to chemistry, to physics, to anthropology, and even to alchemy. There was something for anyone, if you were fascinated by the Darkside that is...
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Post by Elarinya on Jul 26, 2024 19:06:23 GMT -8
She could feel the greater part of her focus becoming more blurred and idly reached down to a small container that hung from her hip. Some time recently, though she could not recall exactly when, Dragus had thrust upon her this... gift. They had, to all outward appearances, appeared to be a simple pair of glasses that Dragus said had once belonged to someone known as 'The Major'. Ela had never asked him much about who this person was, since at the time she'd preferred to get out of the Saurian's company as fast as possible. But now she wondered if perhaps it was a good time to test them out. She withdrew the pair of spectacles from the container and slipped them upon her face.
It was then that she happened to look up and over towards Sirona, as her new friend seemed to straighten up and extend out her hands. Both the actions of the Loremaster and the view Ela was currently getting stunned her for a moment and caused her to blush with her mouth moving before her brain could stop her
you...
She shook her head and quickly pulled the glasses off, coughing a little to buy herself some time as she returned them back to the case. Mentally making a note to have a very stern word with the Saurian Sith Lord
...'re lab is so extensive, uhm...
Indeed the lab was quite stocked and filled with a number of different items and fields, less than half of which she knew the words for. But even then, she couldn't say she was familiar enough with the fields of science and study she did know to properly recognise something from them. She pushed herself off the seat and carefully navigated her way across the lab toward Sirona, doing her best to not let her mind linger too much upon what had happened moments ago
Well... I recall once a long time ago learning about mixtures of different liquids which could produce various effects. Sometimes you could brew a poison or create a reaction would produced an obscuring smoke...
The word was right on the tip of her tongue, but in that moment she was having a hard time recalling what exactly it was
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Darth Sirona
The Sith Eternal
Posts: 338
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Post by Darth Sirona on Jul 27, 2024 21:56:27 GMT -8
Sirona raises an eyebrow in confusion as Elarinya pulls out a pair of spectacles. Odd, she thinks to herself, I didn't know Ela needed glasses. But Ela started acting odd after she put them on. The Loremaster tilted her head quizzically as blushed and started stumbling over her words. For a second it seemed like she was insinuating the thing she wanted to study in the lab was Sirona herself. A classic move in many ancient tales of heroes presented with many items of value, but the thing they pick is the damsel, or some other conveniently placed object of desire, that happened to be, but not on purpose, in the selection. But SIrona allowed herself a small smile as it just seemed her companion had just tripped over the first part of her thoughts. Thank you, I am quite proud of it myself, given until recently, I've only had this ship to work with. She then listened as Ela attempted to describe the field of study she wished to learn about. Sirona's eyes flashed with excitement. Ah! Alchemy! This way, Sirona moved over to another table where beakers and vials of various liquids were suspended in holders to keep them stable should the ship experience any turbulence or shock. Before diving into a near and dear subject of hers, Sirona paused and looked over at Ela. By the way, no need to take the glasses off, some of these labels are tiny, written by ewoks I think (that's what I get for sourcing through my uncle...). And besides, I think they suit you. Sirona blissfully unaware of the glasses powers, smiled before turning back to the table and leaning over to find the bottles she wanted to start the Sith Warrior off with.
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Post by Elarinya on Jul 31, 2024 19:45:35 GMT -8
Despite her fears and concerns, it seemed she had managed to cover well for her little slip up. While it was indeed certainly true that Sirona was the thing that caught her eye within this lab, even Ela could tell that was not the answer her friend was looking for. By the time she was clumsily trying to describe what field of study she had been trained in before, she was honestly just glad for what ever answer Sirona would come up with. The fact her friend seemed excited by the answer she settled on was just a bonus. Even if it turned out to be a different field of study, Ela wouldn't mind since this was an opportunity to learn something that Sirona seemed passionate about.
She followed dutifully across the lab to the table where the Lore Master now stood in front of that was covered in all sorts of glass containers. Ela stood just off to the side, keeping her hands to herself for fear of accidentally breaking anything. What blush she had managed to fight down soon returned as her friend brought up the glasses and said they looked good on her. There was a lot of competing feelings that roiled around within her mind, each trying to reach the top whilst Ela tried to act as calmly as possible as flashes of what she saw moments ago came back
Oh... uhm.... T-thanks... I'm sure it's fine...
It was not, in fact, fine as she reached down and lifted one vial of liquid to try read the label and prove otherwise. Instead she was greeted by a number of tiny squiggled lines which she could not decipher for the life of her. Did Ewok's really write this small? Was her eyesight really this poor? She let out a sigh, not sure what the answer was. However, she did fish out the glasses again, making sure not to look at her prone and bent over friend as she slid the spectacles back upon her nose and ears. She had to blink once, then twice as what had seemed like tiny scribbles before had became easy to read speech which named the liquid within the vial. She slid the glasses down and stared at the label again which had become indecipherable scribbles, but as soon as she pushed the spectacles back up into place, she could read it
Huh... maybe you were right, I did nee...
She had become so temporarily lost in the moment of being able to read the label that she had forgotten about the side effect of the glasses as she turned to look at Sirona. To say she got an eye full was an understatement. She was enchanted by the sight so much so that she was just standing there and staring. It took her a moment to finally swallow a gulp and snap herself out of the stun as she closed her eyes and reminded herself to visit bloody murder upon Dragus. She turned back to the table and tried to look busy as she placed the vial back down
Erm.... yes anyway... What was it you wanted to show me first?
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Darth Sirona
The Sith Eternal
Posts: 338
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Post by Darth Sirona on Jul 31, 2024 20:43:47 GMT -8
SIrona continued to search through her vials and beakers, she couldn't make out the writing without aid from a microscope, but she had memorized the colors, viscosities, bottle shape, and placement on the table, so she was able to locate most things fairly quickly. She gathered a number of these bottles and vials before her before turning back to Ela. Are you alright? You're looking a little... well, more red than usual. And you seem to be having trouble focusing. Sirona, without seeking permission, places the back of her hand to Elarinya's head. Hmmmm, you feel a little warmer than you should be, but not so much to indicate a fever. Sirona's focus had been completely drawn from her potions and alchemy supplies by this new anomaly before her. She withdraws her hand and places both on her hips, cocking her right hip out, as she looks at Elarinya thoughtfully. How's your heart rate? Again, without asking, Sirona starts to reach for Ela's wrist, trying her best to diagnose her friend's suddenly odd behavior. Could this be due to close proximity to the crown? Possible, it was only contained within a safe and a faraday cage, she hadn't been able to manufacture the cortosis case before they had left.
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Post by Elarinya on Aug 1, 2024 17:46:49 GMT -8
She tried to not turn toward Sirona, not wanting to violate her friend's privacy by being able to see through her clothes, but she suddenly stiffened up some as the Witches pale hand suddenly pressed against her forehead
I-I'm sure it's fine... I just seem to have these spells of not being able to concentrate. The last time was just after we first arrived to Roon... P-probably just pushing myself a little too hard again...
She swallowed hard again, trying to calm herself as Sirona showed so much care about her current condition. She turned then, her right hand reaching out to try grab Sirona's wrist before the witches hand could grip her wrist and check her pulse. But she was a moment to late as the pale digits pressed against her crimson wrist. At that same moment she was facing Sirona, the glasses piercing through the clothes that otherwise covered the slender and sleek form of the Librarian. If her heart rate had been elevated before, it was racing now as Ela stood practically gawking at her friends magically exposed form
Uhm....
The tendrils on her chin and that made up her eyebrows turned a deep crimson red, whilst her breathing became much deeper. Part of her wanted to just curl up and die right then and there. She tried to will herself to move, but her body refused to do anything as she was stunned in place. She had certainly had some complicated feelings for Sirona before, never having had a normal friendship with anyone before now. Despite her hopes otherwise, it seemed things with Sirona were going to follow that same route
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Darth Sirona
The Sith Eternal
Posts: 338
Traffic Light: Green
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Post by Darth Sirona on Aug 1, 2024 18:52:50 GMT -8
Sirona's brow furrowed as she felt the pulse in her friend's wrist. The witch kept one hand clasped on Elarinya's wrist while she closed in on her friend. Her face drew close to Ela's, perhaps for the Sith dangerously so, but then her free hand reached up and pulled the glasses down slightly so that the Loremaster could get a clear look at her friends eyes. Dilated pupils, difficulty forming sentences, and a very elevated heart rate... I think you're having a stroke! SIrona froze in panic for a moment, looking up at her taller friend, still on her toes that she had to stand on to get the close look she wanted. Her own breath and heart rate quickening as her mind seemed to fry for a moment. I- I- I need blood thinners, something to break up whatever clots are causing this. Sirona broke away from the close proximity, letting go of Ela's wrist as she turned back to the table of odd chemicals. Frantically she moved bottles aside and reached back and grabbed one. She shoved it into Elarinay's hands. Drink this! And sit down! She turned to move to another part of the lab.
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Post by Elarinya on Aug 11, 2024 17:46:04 GMT -8
The close proximity that Sirona was gradually encroaching upon more and more did nothing to avail her symptoms. Her breathing became a lot more heated as the view she got was of her naked friend moving in closer to her. She'd almost started to crane her neck down a little, getting a little lost in the moment as if some moment of passion was about to strike. But suddenly she was snapped from this haze as Sirona loudly announced she was having a stroke
What...
She was somewhat grateful then, as the witches grip released from her wrist and their close proximity widened. Ela was still trying to process what frantic mess Sirona was diving into when the bottle was shoved into her hands. This was quickly spiralling out of hand. For the briefest moments, she debated letting Sirona fuss over her and just take the medication that had been thrust upon her. But she knew that was not the right thing to do, let alone whether it was the healthy thing to do. Before Sirona could take off again, Ela reached out and grabbed her wrist this time. Setting the bottle down before grabbing the glasses from her face and thrusting them against Sirona's, her eyes shutting as she felt a wave of embarrassment and rush of adrenaline hitting both at the same time
Sirona! Stop! Now we're even...
She wanted so much to try and cover herself knowing full well what the glasses would allow Sirona to see, but she resisted that urge and just waited
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Darth Sirona
The Sith Eternal
Posts: 338
Traffic Light: Green
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Post by Darth Sirona on Aug 11, 2024 18:34:51 GMT -8
I- What?! Sirona nearly lost all semblance of balance as her momentum was brought to a halt by Elarinya's grip on her own wrist now. It felt like she was about to pull her arm from her socket as she regained her balance, about to turn and demand to know why Ela was stopping her from helping, just in time for the spectacles to be shoved on her face. Her view was different, but it took her brain a few seconds to register what. But soon she realized what had changed. Her face grew a deep red, more color than she had likely ever had on her pale cheeks. She was stunned for a moment, looking at her friend. As little clothes as Elarinya usually wore, Sirona hadn't expected to see this much of her newest friend. Realizing that she had been starring, Sirona shut her eyes tight until she could get the glasses off. She held them in her hands, and opened her eyes again. Thankful that all was back to normal, Sirona looked down at the pair of glasses, her cheeks still flush with color. Then the full realization hit her. Her eyes slowly moved up to meet Ela's. You- you saw...Sirona looked back down at the glasses. A small rage building inside of her. She felt violated. The urge grew in her to destroy these mystical glasses. But she didn't. The Loremaster set them aside on the table. Pulling her arm away from Ela, Sirona crossed to the other side of the room, her arms folded, her back to the Sith woman. Her embarrassment, anger, and another tingling feeling, reminiscent of younger years with the Blackguard, all vied for dominance of the witches mind. There, continuing to think, she put together the symptoms her friend had been exhibiting and why, and she blushed harder, wanting to disappear entirely. Sirona was lost in her own spiraling thoughts, as rage turned to curiosity, turned to embarrassment, turned to flattered, turned back to rage, and so on.
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