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Stephen
no horseplay
221 posts
165 likes
Counting all the numbers between zero and one.
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last online May 11, 2023 23:39:47 GMT -5
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May 12, 2019 17:45:38 GMT -5
Post by Stephen on May 12, 2019 17:45:38 GMT -5
“I can't believe we're on Tatoonine right now, they aint even got all sith'ed up chips in this shithole.” Veston listened in silence to the chatter of his strike teams over the comms in amused silence “I know right, figure it lads.” Veston gave an eye to Corbei and she killed the chatter. There was still a check list of preparations to go through before the delegations land. He nodded her over to him.
“Get two and six to go to the empires delegation suite, do one last shake down for bugs, and the like. Then post two as an external guard and put six up in the barracks. Same thing with the pubs and 1 and 8. Leave 1 though, that squad is more dependable. Leave 4 and 5 at the landing pad. “ He paused a moment and stared at Corbei's expaserated face. “I know, I know. It just helps with the nerves to spread everything out on the table like this. A lot could go wrong you know.” She was right though, everyone was briefed in full. Everyone was picked on their dependability. They were as prepped as they could be.
The hutt compound bristled with activity, black and red armor dancing around the sandstone brown buildings like a partially upended fire ant mound. Nemu was understandably cautious upon hearing his rise to the top of the cartel via attrition, but to be greeted by both the Sith and Jedi at the same time was surely to be a shock to the system. He rested languid on his pavilion, nervously eyeing a datapad nearby.
“I'm telling you I would have gone shooting womp rats with you by speeder's tank is dryer than a fart, and I aint renting nothing. Those Jawas give me creeps.” The squad leader of 6 and 3 started up again. “Look all I'm saying is the last three nights on the town we've tried I've got two no shows and a done by Ten Thirty. That's just a pedestrian effort.” Corbei's voice cut through the chatter. “Would you two just shut the fuck up for a second? 4 and 5?” She paused for acknowledgment, “This hours landing code is 'prefabbed fairytale' We should be going live in this window.”
The long silence was lifted by 6, “What's wrong with alpha numeric? 'Prefabbed fairytale', what type of awkward pageantry is that?” A second long pause was broken by 3, “She's gonna kill you man, then she's gonna shrink wrap your gibblets and mail em back to your granny on Ord Mantell.” A third pregnant pause left only. “Radio silence till 5 till live.” from 6
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last online Nov 19, 2022 17:21:47 GMT -5
Knight
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May 13, 2019 17:08:43 GMT -5
Post by Blue on May 13, 2019 17:08:43 GMT -5
The hunt was done. The Hutt had been found. The mission, complete.
Only it was not. Why am I still here?
Things changed. Now, Moor was responsible in part for the negotiation with and the protection of a sentient being. This is wrong. A mistake. I am no defender. I kill. I am a Knight of Strife. Protection is not my purpose. The lithe Sith assassin was no diplomat, either. He had no way with words. He was a blade, unsheathed to slay then returned when not required.
Guards need to be seen. I will need to be seen. No, no, no no no no. Can't be seen. Nobody sees me. Quiet little shadow. Let others draw line of sight, talk, be people. Not me, it's not me.
The company did not help. They were all but silent, Jedi and Sith, but both put him more on edge than normal. The promise of violence was never far, it was an inevitability between them. Eternal foes. To make it worse, it was not just any Jedi; it was a Jedi Master. Too powerful. High on the Chain. Stay low, stay quiet. Moor had spent the entirety of the trip to Tatooine with the Cloak up and out of sight, hidden from eyes and the Force. It soothed his nerves to a small degree, not having to sense them all the time, knowing that they were there, watching, waiting.
As the vessel began to descend onto the planet, Moor knew the time for hiding would soon be over. If he secreted away, the mission that had been foisted upon him might be a loss. Questions would be asked. Searches would be made. No hiding. Not from them. Too many eyes, I'll be soon seen, dead dead dead. There was nothing for it; he would have to be revealed, lest he incur the wrath of his superiors.
Moor shuddered in near terror as he threw off the Cloak.
To his surprise, the crash of life did not engulf him as entirely as he had feared it would. Tatooine was empty enough that the weight of all the thoughts and emotions of it's denizens did not threaten to crush his mind, like it did when he walked the surface of Dromund Kaas... or on Coruscant, all those years ago...
They made you weak- abandoned you, left y- like so much chaff, cast asid- QUIET, PLEASE MAKE IT STOP- left you in the dark, alone, afraid- You found what true power was. You found it in Fear. It made you STRONG-
The thud of the ship landing jerked Moor from his demented reverie. Time to go. Behind the blank visor of his helmet, cracked lips pulled back in a grimace and pale eyes flickered with fear. He rose, unfolding his frame and loped silently towards the exit.
Noting that he was the first there, flinching slightly at the sound of the hydraulics working to lower the ramp, Moor retreated a few steps into the nearest alcove. It would not conceal him, but it might shelter him from immediate notice from those outside looking in once the ramp lowered.
Let the others be seen first. Slip in behind. Nobody.
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Ash
Ash Ash Binks
835 posts
103 likes
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last online Jun 5, 2022 10:09:17 GMT -5
Guardian
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May 13, 2019 21:52:01 GMT -5
Post by Ash on May 13, 2019 21:52:01 GMT -5
Without a master, and apparently no one wanting her, Exryla had more than enough time to make it to Tatooine before she was supposed to meet up with everyone. So she spent the two days she had blending in and staying in her room reading most of the time. But Tattooine suuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuucked. She had to shed her usual black when venturing outside for browns and tans usually found on Jedi and peasants as they were better in the heat.
Plus the sand... It's coarse and rough and irritating and it got everywhere. Good thing a little push of the force kept it away from getting to places where it shouldn't. She was able to get some good reading in, catching up on a book she has been trying to finished for the past week.
Ex spied out the spaceport meeting area quickly, wanting to know the layout just in case, and know places where should could tuck into or use against an unsuspecting person if there was a fight. Not that the acolyte thought there wold be any. They were here for a diplomatic mission.
Then why did they send her? She was a living weapon, or at least trained as one. She would much rather live out reading that continuous fighting, but she knew little else. So a mission to find some lost Hutt hiding out here with another Sith, a Jedi Master, and someone else she didn't know... yea, this was gonna be fun... Sarcasm included.
She finished it with time to spare, allowing her to get a new book downloaded on her little datapad and now she was engrossed in it. She sat near the right spaceport on the day she was supposed to meet up with others, on a box neck deep in her latest adventure story. The woman in it was riding around on a dragon, fighting evil invaders of her homeland while training to become a great warrior. Ex loved stories like this.
Every now and again, she would peek up from her datapad, peering around and feeling with the force before turning her face back to her datapad. The girl took her hood down, pulling her legs up on the crate as well, leaning against the wall beind her, and got back to reading. She figured there was still plenty of time before the rest of her 'team' showed up. She could get a couple more chapters in before then. A smile crossed and stuck to her face as her eyes started to scan her 'pad quickly.
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Meira
She don't mess around
2,830 posts
583 likes
Half awake in our fake empire
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last online May 11, 2023 23:01:34 GMT -5
Administrator
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May 14, 2019 20:57:05 GMT -5
Post by Meira on May 14, 2019 20:57:05 GMT -5
"Prefabbed fairytale... Roger that. Proceeding to the landing pad." The pilot keyed off the comm and then turned at the sound of movement behind him. "Master Valli," he said in greeting, "I've just confirmed the landing code. We'll be down shortly."
"Thank you." Meira said, giving the pilot a slight bow and then turning to retrace her steps back through the ship.
Their journey to Tatooine had been an easy one. Easy, but not peaceful. She was meant to have three traveling companions on this mission, aside from the pilot. Of those three, one was entirely silent and more a ghost than anything. The second made up for the first by ceaselessly jabbering in her ear. The third was nowhere to be found. They had waited at the designated rendezvous for some time before giving up on the woman and making their jump to the desert planet. It seemed the Sith were not putting much value on the outcome of this retrieval mission. It was a note she made sure to log for her report to the Council.
"We should be landing soon." Conrad Fitzgerald was seated at the small table in the ship's modest common space. His eyes never lifted from the datapad he was holding, but scanned back and forth across the screen reading a never ending stream of political communiques.
"They have begun their descent." Meira confirmed, taking the seat across from him.
"The other Sith is not here." Fitzgerald added, not for the first time since they'd joined with their Imperial counterpart.
"She is not,"
"The procedures for this mission are quite clear. We cannot proceed if the protocol is not followed."
"And yet, we proceed."
That got him to lift his eyes from the datapad. Fitzgerald had dark blue eyes, corralled behind permanently furrowed brows. He'd been assigned to this mission as the administrative attache, there to ensure all the proper protocols had been observed in accordance with the agreements laid out by the Supreme Chancellor and the Dark Empress. If he were to be understood, the entire alliance between these two galactic superpowers hung in the balance of this humble retrieval mission. Indeed, if they failed here, the Joint Operations Command might as well surrender, because there would be no galactic order to restore once the Archeri were defeated. Fitzgerald brandished his menacing eyebrows at her, unamused by her words, and then returned to his readings.
Meira smirked, but the movement was quickly replaced when a presence within the force became suddenly apparent to her. Her lips moved quickly into a frown as her emerald eyes darted about the small space, searching out the threat. A moment later, understanding came to her and Meira relaxed her tensed muscles. It was their ghost, finally letting down his shroud. Though she breathed easier with this understanding, her frown did not lessen. What presence the man now displayed was a broken and terrified mess, and that was only what she could sense on the surface. She sighed, ever bemused by those who gave in to the dark side.
As the ramp lowered, Meira walked past the Sith as he stood in the alcove near the exit. Fitzgerald was on her heel, chittering in her ear about Hutt customs and pleasantries. If the Sith wanted to skulk, so be it. If Fitzgerald wanted to yammer, then by all means. She would find this Veston character and get the mission over with. If that other Sith ever felt like showing up, then she'd be welcome to help, Meira supposed.
Speaking of...
With her senses cast outward, Meira noted the woman perched on a crate near the landing pad. The force swirled around her in that same twisted way that all Sith had. "Well there's your truant Sith." Meira said to Fitzgerald. Bringing two fingers to her lips, she issued a sharp whistle to get the woman's attention. "Nice of you to join us!" she called, and then turned to Veston's men as they approached. "You can tell your boss that Master Valli and Special Attache Fitzgerald from the Republic have arrived, along with..." she trailed off, glancing sidelong toward the male Sith, "our Sith counterparts."
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Stephen
no horseplay
221 posts
165 likes
Counting all the numbers between zero and one.
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last online May 11, 2023 23:39:47 GMT -5
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May 19, 2019 22:10:56 GMT -5
Post by Stephen on May 19, 2019 22:10:56 GMT -5
“And we're off gentlemen.” Veston stood at the edge of the landing pad, watching sand and debris spin and flee to the dark corners of the dock. He wasn't the only one expecting the worst to come out of that shuttle. Like a two headed hydra wearing a both modest and revealing robe. Instead it was a Jedi in just about what'd you expect. It was sometimes hard to believe that the Jedi and the Sith had professionals who just went about their business working toward their goal. What sulked out behind was more to his imagination. Still he survived a trip with the jedi, and even followed protocol unlike his compatriot.
“Master Jedi, accomplished knight. Let me show you to where you'll be staying.” He bowed his head and swept his arm behind himself. “One of your group has arrived early and has been shown to their quarters early, but I can assure you that was the only protocol allowed to be broken.” It was petty little assurance but it would have to do. It was a near thing, as it always seems to be with Sith. It was either breach protocol, or shoot them dead on the spot and the temporary truce is broken. Or they kill us all and the temporary truce is also broke and now he was dead. Both options seemed bad, so he settled on the tenuous third.
“Nemu is here and on site. After a short perimeter search of the compound, you will be permitted to begin negotiations. Security will provide anything you should need as well as keep the grounds secure.” He stopped at the middle of the courtyard. “This will be a neutral meeting zone should you need it to discuss without Nemu. This also splits the ground in half, with the Jedi in the east and the Sith in the west.” Veston tapped the wrist of his suit and brought up a hololight display just above. He spun two Ids to the forefront. “Jessa is the Sith Liaison, Ser Knight. She will assist in anything you shall need. Keaton is the Liason to you Master Jedi. If you need me for anything I will be a call away. My Name is Veston. Welcome to Salida del Sol.”
Veston turned away, he had to prep the meeting with Nemu, and he had to make sure the perimeter sweep was secure. Now that things were moving, they seemed to be moving almost too fast. A far cry from week of waiting. The spun cable and coiled springs of waiting turned into kinetic energy so impossibly fast he felt like sprinting across the ground.
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last online Nov 19, 2022 17:21:47 GMT -5
Knight
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May 21, 2019 15:27:16 GMT -5
Post by Blue on May 21, 2019 15:27:16 GMT -5
The Jedi strode passed. Moor felt her; disdain, dismissal, disregarded. Good. Just a little shadow. Eyes go elsewhere. The man next to her did not even see him, face full of worry, jibbering words into the Jedi's ear. The Sith silently made his way down the ramp after them.
"Nice of you to join us!"
His own senses blooming outward as he hit the end of the ramp, Moor felt the presence of the other Sith that was a part of the delegation. Was supposed to be a part of the delegation. As the one who came out to greet them spoke, a tremour of renewed fear shot through the assassin. Broken protocol. Risked failure of the mission. Working from disadvantage now. The blank mask turned to face the errant Sith. The fear gnawing at him flared up, feeding something else. Could cost us everything. Cost me everything. Failure is death. Scarred lips pulled back, teeth bared. Anger.
"I can assure you, their laxity will be reported to my superiors at the next opportunity," Moor said to the man, the mask not leaving the other Sith's face. Any heat from his words were stolen by the voice modulator that allowed him to speak, hiding the growing fury in his mind behind his mechanical, whisper-like tone. "They will be appropriately..."
DESTROYED. TORTURED. RIPPED TO PIECES. KILLED. KILL HER. COST US EVERYTHING. FAILURE. FAILURE! FAILURE!
"... reprimanded," the lithe Sith finished, finally looking away and following their guide into the compound proper. The anger that had pierced the surface of his mind boiled away temporarily as Moor re-focused on the task at hand, listening to the man called Veston as he laid out the terms and conditions of their meeting with the Hutt. The old fear reasserted itself as the impossibility of his task was lain before him once more.
Can't use force, or threat of force, or the Force to complete this. Words are the domain of diplomats, not killers. Was I set up to fail? Was someone careless in assignment? Was I and this other... Sith the only ones available? The war is on Nar Shaddaa. It would be terrifying. But at least for that I am prepared. This is a battlefield where I am naked and weaponless.
Moor nodded as Veston moved away, his gaze falling onto the Jedi. The stare remained for a moment, the emptiness of the helm's mask mutely reflecting the image of the female Kiffar back to her. Wait until she sleeps. Silent and shrouded. Slit the throat or pierce the heart. Can't use violence against the Hutt. They did not say we could not kill each other. Just don't get found. She would know... they all would know. Security maximum. Could slip by anyway. Have the equipment. Dead Jedi are never a bad thing...
Moor's head twitched.
No. Too obvious. Sith would be blamed even if they were not involved. Treaty damaged, broken. Blame falls on me and the other. Both dead. Wait, and watch. An opportunity will always reveal itself. Just need to move the Hutt to Prazhi. Others can take over then. Return to what I know. For now, need to learn. Study prey. Find weakness. Exploit. Execute.
The Sith assassin paused for a moment longer, then turned and left without a further word to the room to investigate the liaison their guide mentioned so as to prepare for the coming task.
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Ash
Ash Ash Binks
835 posts
103 likes
Comic line loading.
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last online Jun 5, 2022 10:09:17 GMT -5
Guardian
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May 21, 2019 22:08:56 GMT -5
Post by Ash on May 21, 2019 22:08:56 GMT -5
Exryla wasn't fully unaware when the starship carrying the rest of the team was showing up. She felt the strings in the force being touched as if a spider was gently crossing them. Her mind went from idle as she read to full awareness in a split second. She rose from her place on the box and moved to the correct landing bay.
Soon the ship landed and the odd crew of Jedi, Sith, and civilians alike spilled out. Ex was sitting on a crate again while she was waiting. At least she was until until their Jedi Liaison whistled at her like she was some sort of dog. She obeyed the call, walking over and standing before the Jedi.
She didn't get a chance to speak yet. She was cut off by the Sith, but the Civilian man saved her, in some small way at least. Still it made her seem like an incompetent child. She shifted her gaze over to Knight Moor, eyes peering at him through her glasses. She felt him in the force: fearful. Quite mad as well. She turned her eyes back to the Jedi and bowed slightly. Politely.
"My apologies Master Valli. My Handler gave me misinformation leading to my arrival early."
That was all she said. No further excuses and she had the pad with her orders on it. And there was no reason to lie. She then went off on herself When they moved to the compound she and the others were staying at, she moved up to Veston.
"Master Veston, thank you and your people for the room. It is greatly appreciated."
There was a smile she wanted to give, but it never came. She looked as stoic as ever, and turned her eyes back forward before falling back. She was closer to the Sith now, the closet to the Sith. Her eyes looked at him for a moment, and she could feel him again. He seemed to give off this... feeling she lacked. Madness? Evil? She could easily feel the fear emanating from him. She shut him out of her main foucs now, leaving the team as they arrived at the compound. Well she didn't really leave. As they were taken to their rooms, she stayed in the common area, pulling up a chair. She figured people would drift back in here before they left for the negotiations. May as well be early rather than late, and with this being so important, she didn't want to be out of reach or touch with anyone.
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Meira
She don't mess around
2,830 posts
583 likes
Half awake in our fake empire
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last online May 11, 2023 23:01:34 GMT -5
Administrator
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May 23, 2019 12:59:00 GMT -5
Post by Meira on May 23, 2019 12:59:00 GMT -5
As it turned out, there was no need for the message of their arrival to be conveyed. The man known as Veston was already walking toward them. The other Sith was joining them as well and it seemed that the only one not present was Nemu. But that was hardly a surprise. Meira imagined that Nemu, like many Hutts in positions of authority, would want to be received... courted. Inwardly, she sighed. Pride was a trait that she found herself less and less inclined to abide as the years passed. She would have to seek guidance on that if she hoped to return to a more regular load of diplomatic missions.
Giving a slight nod to Veston, she fell into step behind him as he lead the way from the landing pad into the compound. Commentary on the Sith's breach of protocol was withheld as they walked. This allowed for the opportunity for Meira to hear the Sith knight she'd traveled with speak for the first time. His voice was quiet and filtered through the mechanical aspects of his mask, leaving little chance for interpretation of tone or nuance. His presence within the Force, at least what she could passively sense, remained a fog of fear with the occasional spike of what seemed like rage. The other Sith seemed oddly blank. Not serene like a Jedi, but empty. Perhaps it was little wonder that the two seemed to not have communicated at all prior to this mission.
"Thank you for your hospitality, Veston. I look forward to speedy and peaceful talks between us all." Meira gave the man another slight bow as he took his leave. Her attention then turned to the masked Sith, who appeared to be studying her. She returned his gaze with a peaceful expression, waiting to see if he might speak. He did not. Instead, he turned and moved off toward the Imperial portion of the compound, leaving his counterpart behind. She seemed not at all disturbed by this, taking up a seat there in the courtyard. Meira glanced sideways at Fitzgerald, who had fallen blessedly silent for the few minutes it took to be escorted into the compound. His eyes moved between the retreating form of the masked Sith, the seated Sith, and his Jedi companion in equal measure.
"Well," Meira said to the air, "we will return once we've settled our quarters." She then turned and led Fitzgerald away toward the eastern side of the courtyard.
Through a doorway, a wide corridor led to a receiving room. It was spacious, whitewashed, with high ceilings supported by dark wooden beams. The furniture was simple in design, but of obviously fine make in neutral tones and natural materials. The far wall of the room was dominated by large windows, allowing for sweeping views of the landscape that was no less beautiful for its barrenness. The guards positioned outside of the room remained at their posts, allowing Meira and Fitzgerald privacy as the doors closed behind them. To the left an open set of double doors revealed what appeared to be an office, complete with a large desk, chairs, and a bookcases. To the right, two doors remained closed. Meira suspected these to be the quarters for this suite. If all went according to plan, those rooms would not be needed at all.
A few moments later, a soft knock at the door was heard. Fitzgerald opened it to reveal their liaison, Keaton. The Balosar man carried a tray laden with cups and a carafe of water. He dipped his head as he entered, moving to set the tray down on a side table near the door. "Master Jedi, Attache Fitzgerald, welcome! May I pour you some water?" Keaton said, already lifting the condensation covered carafe.
"Thank you, yes." Meira replied while Fitzgerald nodded his head.
"The preparations are nearly complete for your introduction to Nemu the Hutt." Keaton assured as he approached the two with their cups of water. "I am sure we will be drinking wine and toasting to success in a mere few hours. Until then, I am at your service." Keaton lifted his own cup in salute to Meira and Fitzgerald. They all drank and then sat to discuss the upcoming negotiations.
Soon after, Meira returned to the courtyard of the compound. Fitzgerald and Keaton had slipped into the quick and difficult to follow conversations of professional diplomats and, while Meira kept pace with them for a time, it was obvious she was not needed for this more casual discourse between the two. Thankful, she excused herself to take a stroll. Hot as the planet was, Meira had not fully anticipated the dryness of its heat. Native to a jungle world, Meira was all but immune to humidity. This desert planet would sap her dry in no time, she was sure of it. But the compound was suited to the planet, with moisture catchers cleverly disguised into the architecture and ample shade throughout. She wondered, as she moved into the courtyard area, if the female Sith would still be there. It seemed prudent that she and her counterparts would speak before meeting with Nemu, if for no other reason than to suss out underlying motives under which one or the other might be operating.
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Stephen
no horseplay
221 posts
165 likes
Counting all the numbers between zero and one.
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last online May 11, 2023 23:39:47 GMT -5
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May 27, 2019 13:05:08 GMT -5
Post by Stephen on May 27, 2019 13:05:08 GMT -5
“What do you mean engine trouble? Veston watched the flickering security screens in his office nervously. They had paid to have all traffic rerouted to neighboring landing pads, leaving them alone in the sand. He shifted uncomfortably. “What type and designation is the craft?” He waited in silence a moment as his question was relayed. “Uh, they are a garbage scow and their registration is with the Tatooine regional waste disposal utility. It seems they are up to date.” Veston squinted a moment. If the negotiations took longer a couple days, then a heated debate with the Tatooine government could be wildly distracting. Still this smelled like a trap.
Veston opened his communicator on his wrist and muted the call on the monitor. “7 and 2, Suit up, I need you ready in transport and ready in 10. Head into town and stand at the ready. More orders enroute” He waited a moment for confirmation and unmuted his call. “Do we have a source of the malfunction?” Veston stared down at the dots of his men readying around the blue grid of the compound. Most seemed as if they were sleeping a moment ago, none were now. “They siphoned fuel from a wreck in the desert and it's been playing havoc with their engines.” Salvage teams had a rule for fuel in the desert, they'd take no fuel older than 10 years old. It seemed that the public sector had no such rule. “Ask if they are having gas build up in the exhaust and blow back explosions” Veston hated having to relay himself through a confused and scared gate guard that wasn't one of his own. “They say yeah.” We'll that's one mystery down, sounds like they tapped an old line of Peragus fuel and were paying the consequences. “Right, prep for a fuel swap and be on alert. Give em the go ahead to land.”
He closed the line and took a deep breath. The Peragus fuel was an easy enough mistake, but it was also that touch of authenticity that would sell a lie to a skeptic. Whatever the course, he'd be remiss to not inform the parties on ground. Veston dialed the pa system and spoke. “Attention, we are currently investigating a disturbance at the local shuttleport. It appears to be mundane, but we will inform you of any new information. Thank you for your patience.” He snapped his wrist console open “Six and three, what is the status of that perimeter sweep?” He was rushing them, but if this was trouble, they'd better be ready for it.
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last online Nov 19, 2022 17:21:47 GMT -5
Knight
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May 27, 2019 15:09:31 GMT -5
Post by Blue on May 27, 2019 15:09:31 GMT -5
The Sith liaison was awaiting their charges outside the assigned chambers for the Imperial delegation. It was a female human, short blonde hair meticulously arranged and dark blue eyes intently watching for the Sith. The liaison still failed to see the lithe assassin until he was but an arms reach from them. The bearing was schooled and showed little shock, but Moor could feel the fear begin to well up beneath the carefully maintained facade she presented.
"Greetings, my lord. I am Jes-" she began.
"You will give me all information that we have gathered on the Hutt Nemu. You will educate me on procedure for dealing with Hutt dignitaries as much as you are able within our time frame. We start now," Moor interrupted, his quiet mechanical tone sending a faint tremour of uncertainty through the female liaison. The woman simply nodded and entered the chamber, followed closely by the Sith.
---
Moor returned to the courtyard not long after the Jedi arrived. His blank mask showed nothing, but wide eyes flickered to find the other Sith, still sitting. How long were they alone together? Did they speak? Would the Jedi attempt to turn them, undermine the Imperial presence in the negotiations? Unknown, unknown, unknown. The body glove felt tighter around his form, as if squeezing the air from him. Back and forth Moor tread, waiting, wondering, attempting to foresee the outcomes he could not predict. Motive, motion, murder. Murder. Murder-
Moor suddenly stopped. His motion was stilled almost instantaneously, becoming statue-like for a few seconds. Then his whole body shuddered, a fresh jolt of fear shooting through his system as an alien thought slipped into his semi-shattered mind.
"Something comes," he uttered aloud.
A heartbeat or two after the words left him, the announcement came. Unexpected craft inbound. It carries death. I know it. I feel it. Moor drew in a ragged breath, the unwelcome information setting his nerves on fire. Need focus. The Hutt. The security must deal with the treat. We need the Hutt. The mission cannot fail. Let them fight and die. The Hutt must live, must leave.
The Sith's body shuddered again as he reveled in the fear, let it course through him, stronger by far than any adrenal. He pulled might from it. The death time comes. If security fails and it follows the Hutt, they will all die.
The blank mask slowly shifted to look at the Jedi once more.
They will all die.
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Ash
Ash Ash Binks
835 posts
103 likes
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last online Jun 5, 2022 10:09:17 GMT -5
Guardian
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May 29, 2019 23:57:37 GMT -5
Post by Ash on May 29, 2019 23:57:37 GMT -5
Exryla made sure not to be so into her book that she was unaware of what was going on around her again. She set her datapad down and stood up from the table. Slowly, she started to walk around the courtyard, looking at the different things that were around. Something that caught her eye was a yellow, hearty looking flower that was in a medium vase. She squatted down to get a better look at it.
"Its amazing that stuff like this can still grow in such a rough enviroment"
She spoke quietly to herself, a small smile touching her lips. Nearby was a small watering can with some water in it. At least it looked like water at first glance. Taking it, she gave the flower, as well as the few other plants around it, a little water. Nothing too much just in case they were already watered earlier, or not due for some yet. The soil absorbed it quickly, and Ex thought that the plant was happy.
"There. Don't tell anyone you got a little snack, now."
Sensing a slight twang in the force, Ex put the watering can back, looking up to see the female Jedi walking into the courtyard. Ex blanked herself again, becoming empty and neutral that nearly everyone knew her to have. She gave a small, polite bow to the Jedi before heading back to her seat.
It was interupted by the other Sith, then quickly by the announcement that something happened. Her eyes remained on the Sith, no thoughts brushing her mind as she looked on until the announcement was over. After that, she went back to the table she was at and slipped her datapad away. There was no need for it to be out anymore.
"I believe we should commune about what is to happen. These negotiations are a tense issue and should be handled softly and quickly. It cannot fail or be disturbed."
Even if the announcement said otherwise. She hoped that nothing happened and the negotiations would go smoothly.
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Meira
She don't mess around
2,830 posts
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Half awake in our fake empire
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last online May 11, 2023 23:01:34 GMT -5
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Jun 1, 2019 19:04:14 GMT -5
Post by Meira on Jun 1, 2019 19:04:14 GMT -5
Evenly spaced columns held up wide archways to her left. To her right, the solid, clay-like walls of the compound radiated a low but steady heat, preventing it from penetrating into the building itself. The walkway was shaded by an overhanging upper floor and skirted around the courtyard. It proved to be comfortable, at least when compared to being in the direct light of both of Tatooine's suns. On any other world, Meira imagined that the center of such a courtyard would house a tall fountain, adding it's quiet flow and splashing of water to the air. Here, though, Meira imagined a being would have to be wealthy beyond any sentient's capability to measure in order to waste water so carelessly.
As she entered to courtyard, Meira felt what seemed to be a being fading away. Not in the way one hide's one's self in the Force, but rather that the being simply became more like an animal rather than a sentient person. A quick sweep with her eyes revealed that the female Sith, Exryla, was the only other being present. Meira remembered how she'd seemed empty before. The woman was such a contrast to... A wash of fear flooded into the courtyard, followed quickly by the male Sith. Such a contrast to him. Meira had been returning Exryla's bow, and so she pivoted slightly to incline her head toward the man as well when he spoke. Moments later, Veston's voice was heard through the courtyard, confirming the Sith's position. Meira cast her senses outward, but could only feel the heightened alertness of Veston's people at the moment.
"Well, I am sure they can handle the situation." she said. "And if not, we certainly can."
Exryla spoke and Meira nodded her head. "I agree." she said, seating herself at the table with the woman and glancing to see if Moor would join them.
"It is my understanding of Hutt culture that, if we are to be successful, we must all show the proper deference to Nemu as befits a Hutt of his station. In uncertain times like these, I believe it would be wise for us to use traditions to our advantage. Familiarity brings comfort and could go a long way toward putting Nemu at ease."
If the stories of Nemu were to be believed, his flight from Nal Hutta had been an act of cowardice and not anything born of a particularly clever or cunning mind. That it had resulted in his sole inheritance of the position of Supreme Mogul of the Hutt Cartel was deemed purely coincidental. The Jedi teachings did not give much credence to events being mere coincidence. Even so, Meira wondered at the mystery of the Force, and where these series of events might lead in the near -or even to far distant- future. Though, those were thoughts for meditation when all the work was done and she was back on Coruscant.
"Do you have your gifts for Nemu ready to present?"
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Stephen
no horseplay
221 posts
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Counting all the numbers between zero and one.
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last online May 11, 2023 23:39:47 GMT -5
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Jun 8, 2019 1:13:02 GMT -5
Post by Stephen on Jun 8, 2019 1:13:02 GMT -5
An attack on the spaceport didn't really make sense from an Archeri point of view. A large enough force to transport a large cluster of the hivemind would be a waste on a world like Tatooine. Their sympathetic allies could perhaps make the trip, but all it would do is postpone the inevitable if they succeeded and risk the enemy capturing some of their hardest to find assets and learning from them if they failed. The line of secession had dipped quite a few names down, but it hadn't fallen off a cliff so they couldn't eliminate the battered remnants of the hutt command. The most likely outcome was that Nemo would be pushed on to Prahzi in the attack, and would be pushed into agreeing to whatever terms he was given for saftey. This was high risk low reward behavior that fell below the scope of an intellect several Billion minds strong, and Veston understood this. If given time, the Sith and the Jedi would eventually figure it out as well. But Nemo, in his agonizing fear and overblown sense of self worth, could never see it. This attack was an impossibility.
A precisely timed and meticulously planned impossibility that so far was mercilessly on schedule. The neighboring town was largely evacuated on Nemo's orders, which cleaned a messy loose end perfectly. Veston's two teams were almost on site and he could just see the greasy smudge of smoke rising on the horizon. A burning starport was surely sign that the enemy was at the gates closing our means of escape. Smoke ordinance was deemed largely sufficient and cleaner than actually destroying civilian infrastructure. Squad 7 and 2 had hopefully already climbed out of their transports and peppered them with blaster rounds. Now it was Veston's turn to act.
He spun on his chair, clearing all viewscreens with a swipe of the hand. He brought Nemo's comm online and centered the viewscreen ahead of him. “Nemo sire, Our squads have reached Estuary and met with significant unknown resistance. I have Corbei coordinating their momements at the moment, with an aim to scuttle or destroy any craft available to cross the intervening desert. I expect them to succeed but we are going to have to move our timetable up.” He watched Nemo shift uncomfortably, his eyes widening and flickering across the edges of the room. He seemed to start his sentence multiple times before finally mustering the nerve to make noise “Very well, have them sent up the second they are ready. Keep Horace up to date on the work of the away team.” Veston nodded back “Of course sire, I'm having my men on site prep for emergency extraction if and when the situation requires it. We can have you past the sky in less than 30 minutes.” Nemo merely nodded and closed the feed. So far so good.
He opened his private feeds again and pipped his comm. “Attention, We are moving our timetable up. As soon as our guests are ready, Nemo will see them. All teams on high alert till otherwise stated. 4 and 5, prep the landing pad for emergency evac.” It was deemed mindful that his team on the inside be kept in the dark, but he still felt pangs of guilt. Still, it was hazard pay for not firing a shot, so it could be justified away as a combat readiness drill. Veston straightened his clothes a moment before standing and heading towards the meeting room with Nemo. He'd want to be on hand incase something went afoul.
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last online Nov 19, 2022 17:21:47 GMT -5
Knight
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Jun 8, 2019 15:46:32 GMT -5
Post by Blue on Jun 8, 2019 15:46:32 GMT -5
Being around the other supposed Sith made Moor feel sick. Whenever they were near, they became quiet inside, empty of anything. It was not right. Is she even Sith? Fear, anger, envy, disgust, there should be something. Anything at all. Even the Jedi gave him something, faint and muted as it was. But there was nothing on the surface, and the assassin had little inclination to dig about inside their mind for-
rip it open, break it, not right, not right-
It did not matter. They did not matter. They would serve the mission, or they would fail. Moor would not fail. Could not fail. Fall down the Chain, consumed, no no no...
Moor's mind was brought back to the matter at hand as the other Sith spoke, and the Jedi responded. The blank mask of his helmet swung back and forth between them as they spoke... then snapped in a different direction altogether, like a predator suddenly scenting prey. Fear. Such fear. Instinctively, the Sith followed the trail, consuming. He slowly inhaled, feeling the raw emotion fueling him, the Dark Side swelling as he fed the hunger constantly clawing inside him.
No. Not here. Not yet. Mission must be completed. Cannot fail.
With reluctance, Moor broke away from the emotion, joining his fellow... ambassadors as the summons came down for them to move to the meeting room.
"Too late for that. Disturbance has already seeped in. The Hutt's fear has been elevated significantly. The situation is starting to deteriorate. Comfort is far from mind, and any familiarity may be perverted by the circumstance." the Sith assassin said as they moved, his short, clipped sentences betraying his jarring thoughts. "But the gifts are ready, and the Hutt is coming. Options are limited, so convention is the only current route."
As Moor finished speaking they arrived. The Hutt before them, with the man who had greeted them on arrival in tow, still stank of fear. It made his head swim. The Sith bowed respectfully, keeping in mind the part he was being forced to play. Out of place. Out of mind. Once the Hutt had settled in place, Moor pulled himself together and dragged his thoughts to heel.
"On behalf of the Coalition: greetings, Great Nemu," he began. The words, already off-putting due to the mechanical tone his voice modulator tinted it with, sounded stiff, as if he was reading off of a script that someone gave him in his mind. "Thank you for agreeing to meet with us and graciously welcoming us into your abode. As a sign of our gratitude, we have brought you humble gifts."
At this, a crate was wheeled out and broken open, revealing a glass tank filled with slow swimming, bloated fish like creatures.
"These creatures are a rare delicacy, said to please the tongue and ease the nerves," Moor finished. Apparently the bizarre fish had been a favourite for Hutts, although whether or not the creatures actually did anything to sooth anxiety or if it was simply a placebo effect, the Sith did not know. But it was the gift the Empire's diplomats had chosen, so it should prove sufficient an offering.
Moor took his seat, though it was as if none of his weight actually alighted on the chair, his muscles ready to spring away or towards either side of himself. His body still wound tight, he awaited the Jedi to present her own gifts. Up close, the Hutt's fear was practically a visible could to the Sith. He licked his lips. Already on the verge to flee. Good. Hopefully it will make our job easier.
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Ash
Ash Ash Binks
835 posts
103 likes
Comic line loading.
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last online Jun 5, 2022 10:09:17 GMT -5
Guardian
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Jun 15, 2019 10:07:07 GMT -5
Post by Ash on Jun 15, 2019 10:07:07 GMT -5
"Too bad that our time to plan is up."
Ex spoke quietly, noting that Veston said that the timeline had to be swapped around a little. She could feel the small tugs in the force telling her what was up. Ex wasn't good at improvising like this. Her books usually had the hero's do stuff in a situation similar to what this group of misfits were in, but for her?
She was good at being told what to do. Being a living weapon: unfeeling and obedient to her master. No more and no less. Her eyes unfocused at that moment, for only a moment.
She didn't have a master now. He died recently, just before his war kicked off. She was getting bullied around by her handler, assigned missions that could have led to her failure and death. Should have lead to her failure and death. Then why did she continue to perform? Why did she play the part of a puppet?
A brief flash of annoyance and trepidation washed past Ex's blank mask before it was squashed again as she came back to her senses. It wasn't like her to leave herself open like that, even for a fraction of a second. She blinked twice, readjusting her glasses to sit better. She fallowed everyone else.
"If he has fear at the situation, be sure to sooth him rather than scare him further."
Her statement was directed at her Sith companion. She had a feeling of how he worked and thought. A bundle of fear that seemed to feed off of that emotion more than anything else.
They arrived at Nemu right after she spoke, giving her the very rare last word. Moor was the first to speak it seemed, the tone being washed though with a mechanical twinge. Ex simply stood quietly, hands grasps in front of her in a gentle, non aggressive way. The sith's side presented, she waited to see what the Jedi would provide.
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Meira
She don't mess around
2,830 posts
583 likes
Half awake in our fake empire
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last online May 11, 2023 23:01:34 GMT -5
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Jun 15, 2019 15:37:36 GMT -5
Post by Meira on Jun 15, 2019 15:37:36 GMT -5
"Perhaps a combination of urgency and custom, then." Meira mused as they moved toward the room where Nemu would receive them. Keaton joined them along the way, as did Fitzgerald, how carrying the container with the Republic's gift. Meira was silent for the remainder of their short walk, her focus turned inward for the moment in preparation. It was critical that she maintained her inner sense of balance and tranquility. Even if they were currently working together, the Sith brought the corruption of the dark side with them wherever they went. She could not afford to be passive while in their presence.
As they entered the room, Moor spoke first, bowing and presenting the Sith offering. Meira had not ever heard of the creatures he presented, but Hutts were known for their appetites and she imagined such a rare delicacy would be well received. When he finished and it seemed that Exryla would not also speak, Meira took cue and stepped forward.
"It is an honor to be received by the Great Nemu." she said, bowing at the waist. Fitzgerald stepped forward as well, bowing. He held the up and out as Meira gestured to it. "On behalf of the Republic, please allow me to present this small token." Fitzgerald opened the lid of the container. The interior of the container was padded and lined with rich purple silk. Nested within was a clear crystal vial. Meira carefully lifted this and held it aloft to display. There was a fine, light green powder. The stopper for the vial was capped with a large Veda pearl. "This is guilea, from Cerea. While the Cerean Council of Elders prohibits the export of this spice, an exception has been made for this circumstance. Please accept it as a gesture of the Republic's sincerity and commitment to support Hutt sovereignty in this system when the Archeri have been eliminated."
Meira carefully set the vial back into the container. Fitzgerald then closed the lid and handed it off to Keaton, who brought it over to a stand near the Hutt's dais, next to where the Sith gift had been brought.
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Stephen
no horseplay
221 posts
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Counting all the numbers between zero and one.
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last online May 11, 2023 23:39:47 GMT -5
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Jun 19, 2019 0:21:15 GMT -5
Post by Stephen on Jun 19, 2019 0:21:15 GMT -5
Veston watched the interchange politely and quietly. His hands crossed in front of him at his waist. His gambit was already on the field, it would nothing but counter productive for him to do anything but act every bit the majordomo. The Empire and Republic seemed willing to play their part as well. The gifts on offer were every bit the rarities the throne would guarantee and provided with due respect he could be tempted into receiving. The Jedi could generally be trusted with diplomacy, but the Sith were a wild card here. As of right now however, things seemed to be going swimmingly. The everpresent fear of a devouring swarm on the gates of the universe tended to mend fences fast. It was strange the amount of dancing you had to do to get three powers to act in their own interest.
Even Veston shrunk away from that reductive logic. It was entirely possible that these three organizations could have cooperated enough to ensure the stability that a hutt Mogul could bring. Still Veston saw the opportunity to intervene and took it wholeheartedly. He'd be insane to not question his meddling, but it could take an academic tone if all went well, and it seemed well so far. Still, standing stoic in the corner was never his preferred method of seeing a job out.
Nemo cleared his throat with an abrupt gurgle. “Your gifts are quite suitable” he said after a moments pause, “Generous even, with Hutt strength spent and scattered across the galaxy.” A long snail like tongue snaked out of his mouth and across his lips as he eyed his meager horde of tactile pleasures. “I think I know what you would ask of me but I would hear it from your lips.” Veston tried not to smile during his speech. Nemo's voice over the coms wasn't nearly as deep as it was now. Gone was the atonal nasality and replaced by a chest vibrating baritone. Probably a off market vocal synth. “I accept your gifts in good heart and would hear your words in the same. Speak your mind.” He finished.
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last online Nov 19, 2022 17:21:47 GMT -5
Knight
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Jun 20, 2019 12:00:49 GMT -5
Post by Blue on Jun 20, 2019 12:00:49 GMT -5
There was a moment, just before the Hutt entered the room, that Moor sensed a faint twinge of emotion from the other so-called Sith. It escaped them for all but a half heartbeat before that abominable blankness reasserted itself, but he had caught it. That was good. Perhaps they would be good for something after all.
Even if that something was just food.
The Jedi had handed over their gift, and the real talks began. The Hutt spoke, empty words, filling the space until they could get on with why they were here. Patience, need patience. Let them talk, just need the Hutt on Prazhi. Then back to silence. The blank masked visage of the Sith inclined towards the Hutt, as if relinquishing a point to them, before the mechanical voice once more spoke.
"Your perceptiveness is as sharp as expected of someone of your reputation, Great Nemu," Moor said. These words taste foul... but flattery was a matter of course for dealing with Hutts, according to the liaison. Anything less might set Nemu against them. "I have no doubt at all that you have easily unraveled our intentions but, as requested, I will state it plainly."
Moor stood back up to speak, the motion smooth and the weight of his body easing into a new posture like liquid.
"It is our humble request that Your Eminence relocate to Prazhi. While I am certain of the skill and strength of those that you have gathered to you, I fear that Tatooine is far from safe haven. Yet, even as we speak, a coalition of force unmatched in living memory moves to repel the Archeri interlopers from your home and seat of power. You have already shown your cunning and foresight by evading the Chorus, and as such I will not insult your intellect by detailing that which you must surely have already calculated; that it is from Prazhi that you can best rebuild and restructure the Hutt Cartel in comfortable respite, into what it was and will always be."
Inside, the Sith was screaming. Wrong wrong wrong. Not for me. Make it quiet, make it stop! But the assassin quashed the gibbering thoughts, echoing the words the liaison had crafted. His throat itched with tiny pinpricks of pain, unused to so much chatter. Moor just hoped that by molding the role for Nemu, it would make it easier for the Hutt to slide into it, and where they needed them.
Moor had found himself in not a dissimilar situation himself, standing in this very room. Talking. So much empty talking...
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Stephen
no horseplay
221 posts
165 likes
Counting all the numbers between zero and one.
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last online May 11, 2023 23:39:47 GMT -5
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Jun 30, 2019 22:41:39 GMT -5
Post by Stephen on Jun 30, 2019 22:41:39 GMT -5
“So that is your piece” He rumbled. He scooted forward such a inch or two, and his whole body jittered strangely in two abrupt hops. He licked his lips again, as he inched closer to the foods left by his guests. “You think that I should abandon my estate here on Tatooine and come with you into protective custody on Prahzi?” He let out a too forced laugh. “And what recompense are the empire and republic willing to offer me against the loss of my holdings and freedom?” He smiled a dim smile. Nemo was deeply pleased that he found a way to monetize his ascension. All was well and good. Both of these empires had deep pockets and it would be easy to ask an amount they could together pay.
A thunderous explosion shook dust from the ceiling braces. The silence directly after was only slightly marred by sand and silt pouring from it's hiding places and onto the floor. Veston immediately was on his comm, receiving the report almost as fast as it was generated. An apc had rammed into the compound and exploded into a greasy fireball. The retaining wall was breached and more vehicles could be spotted in the distance by their dust trails. “All teams report to the courtyard.” He paged over comms. It would cost a bit more than Veston liked to replace one of this units combat recognizance vehicles but it was worth it for the effect. Team 7 and 2 would need a replacement, but they didn't care at the moment, they were too busy driving speeder bikes around in the sand kicking up as much of a storm as they could. It was as much fun as you could have at the moment and we was happy to let them.
Finally Veston reported to Nemo and the room. “Sire, the external perimeter has been breached by a suicide attack. I have all my teams pulled back to the courtyard sir. I recommend immediate evacuation. We can discuss further compensation en route to Prahzi.” He sprinted over and tapped a few buttons on the keypad to Nemo's raised platform and activated the hoverskirt. And began to push Nemo to the courtyard and beyond to the hoverpad. Nemo bellowed at him but Veston cut him off. “Sir, I am employed to keep you alive, and I take my job very seriously. Whatever negotiations need be can happen in hyperspace.” He hit the doors to Nemo's audience chamber with the platform and they flew open. He could hear blaster fire pick up near the edges of the compound, but he ignored it and pushed foreward.
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last online Nov 19, 2022 17:21:47 GMT -5
Knight
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Jul 1, 2019 14:01:30 GMT -5
Post by Blue on Jul 1, 2019 14:01:30 GMT -5
He really wanted to kill this slug. The way they talked, the way they felt when they talked, sent sharp pains shooting through Moor's mind. Power, but no strength. Command, but no substance. High on the Chain, yet not a single rung ascended by themselves. The Hutt felt like greed and hunger and fear, all the sensations screaming together and all he wanted to do was to kill it to make the noise stop.
Tension wound through the assassin's wiry body. Need him alive. Need him alive. Need him alive or else I'm dead... but I need that silence...
The explosion was, in its way, very fortuitous timing. With a sharp pull of the Force, the lightsaber flew through the gap between belt and hand and Moor crouched in a ready stance, a stamped-in reaction born of violent necessity. The Sith had just enough presence of mind not to ignite the blade, however, simply prepared for a sudden assault that the cacophonous sound surely preceded. As the Hutt's bodyguard explained the situation, Moor's stance did not change, falling into step with the departing bulk of disgusting self-importance that was their millstone.
"Fear not, Great Nemu," the Sith said, his metallic tone hiding what those capable of reading the Force would not fail to miss; he was relishing the uncertain fear that quivered in the Hutt's heart, like a hound would salivate at the scent of a slab of raw, bloody meat. "You will have ample time to negotiate with the generous coffers of both the Republic and Empire once this rabble are dealt with and you are safely away to take your place where you belong."
In truth, these intruders had done Moor a great service, forcing the Hutt's security personal into pushing the reluctant slug into their laps. That did not stop the fear sending shivers through him at the thought of conflict, of incoming salvos of death and pain. No hiding here, can't vanish. Hutt must live. Once on the ship, I can return to the silence. But if they see, if they see...
The sounds of incoming fire became louder as the group made their way towards the landing pad. Anticipation tightened the spring of his mind to breaking point. Lightsaber ready for the slightest hint to deploy swift violence. The Force played about him like a shroud of shattered glass, setting his nerves aflame.
Quiet, quiet. When they come... I will make it stop.
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