Turning the page (Renata)

[Necro Stormborn]

Music to accompany the journey: Here
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Once more, a high pitched chime accompanied by a red strobe chirped to life alerting the pilot to the upcoming drop from hyperspace. This alert followed on the heels of 7 other jumps just like it and the man seated in the pilots seat, as he'd done before, reached over flicking the switch and pulled down on the Hyperdrive lever. Blue swirling clouds like bright ice in sunlight split and stretched as star lines poured forth growing wide to reveal the maw of space as a loud popping sound followed the ships exit into realspace. Ahead was the gleaming world of Prazhi and above it was the Sith Flotilla, not far from there the republic flotilla waited in orbit as well. This was to be expected, the Trial that would likely crumble this faux alliance was taking place down on the surface, but above both sides no doubt eagerly waited for the shot heard around the galaxy...or would it be a gavel? The deposed Dark lord of the sith looked on at the fleet admiring their formation before he quickly checked that his drive signature was still broadcasting. Anyone checking or monitoring the space over Prazhi would see his Ship and the unique Drive ID would certainly be paired to him. He was counting on it. They should know he's coming. Eurachis always appreciated a grand gesture and this was most certainly going to give both sides pause. A smirk crossed his face as he set the ship to enter orbit and wait for proper landing vectors.

"This is Dar--...", the towering man let go quickly of the comlink's open mic pausing for a moment. "Eurachis, requesting Vectors for Landing." As the men on the ground scrambled to get approval he required, he moved from the cockpit to the cabin pausing at the doorway to stare at the barren bed. Memories shot through him like a red lance and he could feel heat and emptyness growing behind his eyes as his fist slowly pulled together and strained against the doorway. A long inhale followed and his grip loosened as he blinked away what gave him pause. This is the right thing to do isn't it? Maybe she'll say something I need to hear... something I've been begging to hear. What if I can't find a reason to hold back.. what if this time I actually do it.... is that what I want? The moment dragged briefly and he felt his feet push him forward across the room where he pulled free from along his belt the weapon that'd kept him safe and defined much of his life. The metallic cylinder clinked quietly as it lay solemnly alone on the edge of his barren bed. "It's too late to stop now, and sadly this isn't something you can help me with." Dark eyes hardened as he stepped back from the lightsaber, shifting their gaze a final time to the side of the bed he didn't sleep on. Swallowing hard Eurachis turned on his heel and moved briskly out of the room, in time to receive the docking coordinates and landing vectors as a blue comm light chittered eagerly for him to acknowledge.

The descent planetside was quick, all formal tithes for the starport were handled. The ex-warlord's navicomputer and ship gantry were locked remotely after disembarking, as the man strode through the sea of travelers and offworlders that streamed through the capital city making his way to suitable lodgings. Suitable was the operative word but truly most of the high class establishments were already teeming with officers and public relation officials from both sides, not to mention the myriad of news casters that had converged on the lonesome planet to cover the story unfolding in the court room a few kilometers away. After finding a place to stay, the man who once commanded legions and flotillas alike, who's word would fell a star system if he desired, stepped onto the makeshift veranda with poorly made tapcaf and sipped at the hot beverage staring into the capital streets, feeling what the planet had to offer and searching for any who were letting themselves be found. For almost a week the man would enjoy what the city had to offer, meet and mingle with those of the Sith and Republic who seemed interesting and might have remembered him as well as making a few new acquaintances while enjoying the safety the neutrality of this world brought with it. Eventually the moment he'd been waiting for fell upon the city and it's welcoming lights.

Day turned to night, and then again to day. The rising sunlight pouring through Ramseye's viewport, bathing the far walls in muted orange light accompanied the man's morning stretches and fitness regimen. A short stint in the refresher and quick grooming of his beard left ample time to head to the courthouse. He entered purposefully with the rest of the crowd, keeping to himself until he could position further within the corridor along the path to the courtroom where a verdict was being read. Subtle suggestions and intimidating glances allowed for ideal placement as the ex-Darth moved directly across from the main entrance, waiting for the sound of the gavel. Clamoring news casters and frightened clerks pacing nervously outside, eventually pressed back against the walls to create space and an opening for the parties within to leave as the ruling was about to come.

A loud knock and uproarious growls bellowed from the courtroom beyond as people screeched on both sides, some calling for a mistrial, others yelling excitedly for welcomed republic justice. None of that mattered to Eurachis in that very moment. Eyes narrowed as the door to the court room swung open, slamming into the walljacks meant to prevent wall damage from forceful use. This was it, this was the moment. Eurachis let his presence sweep outwards, a deluge washing over everyone around him. Turning heads from force sensitives didn't alarm him. His anger, hatred, and nihilistic emptiness poured forth crashing intentionally into everyone there. The previous warlord of the Sith clenched his teeth and stared hard through that opening, waiting to lock eyes with his target. Dressed finely in his customary black and grays with an undershirt of bright white, Eurachis knew everyone could see him now and assuredly everyone could feel him too. Only one person need do both, and He'd make sure they did.

..I'm back..


[[Edited to allow for a time frame between landing and meeting Renata, so that an Open thread could occur. 4/4/20]]

[Meira]

She moved at a deliberate pace toward the courtroom doors. The silence followed her, but it did not last long. As the doors swung wide, the mob of reporters and other onlookers outside broke the spell as they clambered for the perfect shot and shouted their questions over each other. Their noise awoke those within the courtroom from their stupor, and Renata could feel the resurgence of emotions behind her. But her mind was not on them, or what they would do. No, her mind was focused ahead. A careful, regal mask of indifferent hid the rage as Renata was made to counter the waves of malevolent darkness that emanated from the large corridor. Between herself and the source, beings of all types waded through it, entirely unaware. Some, perhaps, had a strange feeling about the well dressed man who hadn't moved since arriving across from the courtroom doors. A few might even have been wise enough to recognize him. But they did not feel.

Renata had felt his presence growing over the week. He'd started like some minuscule fly buzzing just beside her ear, barely perceptible but unrelenting. As the days passed, he became louder, bolder. She'd wondered at what he thought he was doing, when she had the moments to spare to read the reports she'd ordered on his movements. Ever since he'd left, he'd been relatively careful, had kept to himself. But now, he was here. He gallivanted, flaunted his presence. Why? And now, he stood just ahead. Renata's eyes found him easily. She'd have found him if she was blind; he was practically screaming look at me!! Her eyes moved over him as if he were just part of the scenery.

But her presence... that roared around her like the beginnings of a hurricane. It was not what she would have chosen to do. But, in his fashion, Eurachis left her little choice. He might not have cared that the whole galaxy knew he was there. He might not have thought of the consequences his presence could incur. But she didn't have the luxury of not having to think. And so she allowed her own presence to storm through the area, perhaps confusing any who might be trying to pry.

..I'm back..

She felt the words and wanted nothing more than to roll her eyes. But she kept walking; past him, past the throngs of reporters vying for a sound byte, past the jeering supporters of the Republic.

I see your timing hasn't improved. The great outer doors of the Galactic Hall opened to her passage. Outside, her transport waited. She did not turn back, and she left him no more than that.

---

The Golden Nimbus was one of the finer hotels in Soldon. It had, thus, been booked to capacity the moment the Arbitration had been announced. The Empress herself, of course, was not one of the guests, but there were a number of noble Imperial families taking residence there. Or, there had been. With the verdict handed down, most guests were leaving Prazhi and flying quickly back to the safety of their home systems where they were firmly within their respective national boundaries. It had not been difficult, then, for the woman contracted to make the appropriate arrangements to do so without notice. Viatrix Monserrat was known on Prazhi for her efficiency and, more importantly, her discretion. She'd not been told for whom this clandestine dinner was for, and she did not ask.

The room was an intimate reception chamber, meant for gatherings of no more than six people. It was tucked away in a quiet corner of the hotel where there would be no hapless foot traffic from unwanted witnesses. A table for two had been set for a full state dinner. But no waiters lurked in the corners to serve. Instead, all the food was laid out on a side table, dishes warmed or chilled as appropriate. The two attending the dinner would have to serve themselves. But that was the price to pay for privacy.

Renata entered the room in silence, shrugging off the black cloak she'd worn through the streets. Her hair tumbled free, falling in waves over her shoulders. Her dress was simple, an uncharacteristic purple that appeared almost black in the candlelight. Her eyes swept the room, but she knew he was not there, not yet. Unless he was trying very hard, Renata doubted he could hide himself from her. Hanging the cloak on a rack by the door, she moved to a side table where various spirits waited. She collected a wineglass from one of the place settings on the table as she passed and chose a red blend to start from the selection on the table. Pouring herself a healthy portion, she turned and eyed the other wineglass on the table.

No, she thought. That won't do.

Setting her own glass down, Renata turned back to the table, finding a tumbler instead. As she perused the selection of whiskeys, she felt it. Her eyebrow arched as she paused, hand hovering over the Corellian bottle. She took a breath and poured a measure. Resisting the urge to turn, she kept her back to the door as his presence grew, as it neared. Reaching for her own glass, Renata took a sip of her wine. She then lifted the tumbler in her other hand and turned around.

"They don't seem to have the chilis you like." she said, holding the whiskey out for Eurachis to take.

[Necro Stormborn]

Twin doors slid aside beckoning him within as Eurachis's hard eyes scanned the place. He avoided her form at first, it was visible in his peripherals but he was worried what might happen now that they seemed to be alone. A slim fitted button-down shirt of black sheen covered by a dim grey vest, jet black belt, and fitted grey slacks presented a man who'd not let himself waste away, one that in solitude had continued a tradition of refinement. As the distance shortened and the doors swept silently closed behind him, he could hear his thoughts bubbling up like a confluence of confusion, frustration, and admiration.

Renata stood across from him, her back facing him as she messed with something on the drink cart. The room was magnificent, its embossed wood paneling and regal silks lining the moldings were a sight to behold, and focusing on them seemed a hell of a lot easier than trying to stop himself from staring at her form. She looked tired, but her curves and thin form still spoke to him as he quickly passed his gaze over her. It was then she turned, holding a tumbler and drink made for him. Her eyes flashed in his direction and he froze for but a moment. Don't look in her eyes..... don't do it. Don't look into them, just keep staring at her chest, or her neck. Don't look at them...ahh fuck.

His gaze softened as he stared into her eyes, his hand outstretched to receive the drink. his tongue slipped free of his lips, wetting them before returning to reveal a childlike smile. He cleared his throat and noticeably recomposed himself. Eurachis's steps took him closer, close enough for her to smell his cologne, and for him to admire how she'd aged. Close enough to unsettle her.. but he could feel it starting to unsettle him too as his emotions swirled. "Unfortunate, a proper Phoenix's tail needs heat...at least you picked my favorite color on you." He let the proximity linger for a moment before stepping away to the side past her looking to the food table, appreciating the feast she'd had prepared. "That's a wonderful spread... I was always more well behaved on a full stomach, we wouldn't want me to become Rambunctious." His smirk pulled away and revealed a hearty smile.

Steps led him in a circle around the room, checking it, assessing it for traps. The former dark lord completed his circuit towards her, stopping again with his waist pressed to the drink cart, his knee almost caressing her thigh. "No Security team? Or have you such confidence that I couldn't have possibly come here tonight to kill you?" The man sipped his drink and never took his gaze from her face the entire time.

"No, you were always much more clever than anyone gave you credit for, you know that's not why I've come. If I'd wanted to hurt you I think we both know, Security team or not, I would find a way to you... and We'd probably leave this place in shambles."

His smile turned sour as he faced away, feeling a growing warmth churning inside him, burning away feelings of resentment he desperately felt a need to cling to. "You look beautiful."

[Meira]

He'd stayed fit. She couldn't help that this was the first assessment her mind made of him. He still stood tall, straight. At ease as ever, confident in his body. There was silver streaking in his hair now, but that only helped. It took him a moment, hesitating, but his eyes were drawn to hers. They always did. And as he took the tumbler from her hand and spoke, Renata saw all the same old things she'd seen in those eyes before; cunning, wit, anger... yes, but also affection. He moved close, and her body remembered those stolen moments in meeting chambers... a cantina... the taste of fruit and the thrum if his ship. Her lips parted, ever so slightly and she unconsciously began to lean toward him. But he moved, stepping past her and Renata's head followed him like the vine blossoms on Dromund Kaas followed the light of the sun.

But when he moved to the table where the food was laid out, a different memory came to her. Her spine straightened as a chill ran down it. A dresser, shattered into pieces, thrown across a room. Cracked marble. Her jaw flexed and she took another drink of her wine as he made his observations. She could not afford to forget what he had been... what he still was. But that rage, that fire-hot anger was not here with him now. Not as it had been on that day. There was something still deep within him, she could feel as much. And he wasn't trying to hide it from her, not really. The surface was all familiar banter and charm, but what lie beneath was there for her, should she choose to dig deeper. Even so, he was still on his guard.

"No Security team?"

One side of Renata's mouth pulled upward in a sly smile as she twisted her head once to each side. He was close again. His pacing had brought him back around and she could feel the air vibrating between them as he spoke. He placed himself just shy of touching her, his words a threatening contrast to his body language. Or did they compliment? If there was one word Renata might have used to describe Eurachis, it would always have been imposing. Eurachis never merely occupied space; he took it. And when he spoke a thing, it was always with an air of such solid self-assured confidence that nothing could ever be to the contrary. His will simply would not allow such an insult. So for him, no. It was not a threat. It simply was so.

He turned away again, suddenly, his voice and demeanor changing as he told her she looked beautiful. Renata blinked. From when he'd entered the room to just that moment, he'd been exactly as she remembered him, swirling mix of emotions and all. But this... what was this? Her careful mask faltered as he turned. her brows furrowed and her mouth fell open a little wider, a silent expression of genuine confusion. Again, as if shaking from a spell, Renata straightened and turned away herself before he could see. She set the her glass down on the table by her plate and swiftly took up his, stepping over to the waiting dishes.

"And you've been taking care of yourself as well." she replied as she began to serve dishes she remembered he'd like onto the plate. When it was laden with several options, she turned back and returned the plate to its place on the table. "Hapes has been good to you."

[Necro Stormborn]

((Musical Accompaniment if you'd like: Music ))


Careful eyes looked across the room once again at the door, as his face felt that warmth again, bubbling inside him from his admittance of her beauty. A hard stare lingered on the panel of the door, scrutinizing the colors of the red and blue text that streamed across it. Sounds of a clanging plate and serving serving utensils pulled his unfocused attention back to the woman he was with, back to Renata...back to a reluctant anger and a softening he couldn't seem to stymie. Maybe I shouldn't have said that... The sounds and smells of the food called to him as his gaze settled on her form. That was when he noticed something as he stared at her back, listening as she shuffled food onto his plate. The magnificent purple she'd enveloped herself with danced in the light, his favorite color on her. Whether she knew that or not, the circumstance did nothing to belie the smile he could feel creeping its way quietly onto his face, carving itself slowly across his lips. He couldn't help but notice it again though, that her back was towards him, so soon after his comment. Just as when he'd entered she'd been facing away only to look towards him once armed with something to distract... now that something was his plate.

Was she afraid of him? The man who'd once been a dark lord, powerful with his senses and intuition troubled over this. He couldn't feel disgust or a trace of reproach, so what was it? Twice she'd made sure to weaponize the environment to avoid soft lingering stares, the kind they often shared in hallways, or in the back of small crowded turbolifts. Well, the kind they used to share...Great she can barely look at me for more than--

His thought was quashed as her voice filled the room softly, reciprocating his kind words, regarding him with praise as she returned the plate back to his side of the table. His stance shifted as he moved in her direction, that damned smile still carved on his face, as annoyance and frustration begged and pleaded for it to fall away. He shouldn't be so happy, he needed to be firm with her, he needed to be something more than childish. His body clearly was betraying him. Dammit.

She mentioned the Hapani, and that they had treated him well... she'd been watching him. He couldn't fault her for that, he'd been watching her too, fighting hard to get his hands on any information he could come across about the empire and its empress. Spending evenings in front of a holo-recording of a speech with a near empty bottle of whiskey. He hounded spies and those still loyal to him, and yet Eurachis often had to make due with simplistic reports lacking in context, story, and emotions... he'd had very little, but it was enough to remind him she was still out there. Even in his pursuit of family vindication, and actions taken against various criminal enterprises he never once forgot she was out there.

"Heh...Yes, they were good to me, and isolation gave me time to think and gain insight.... new perspectives and all." His voice steadied and breathing slowed, calming finally. "So you were watching me..."

Her tactic still confused him, and while she'd started to soften him he needed to understand before he proceeded. Where was she? Who was he with right now. Was this the empress, was it a friend, or was he with Renata... was this Phoenix, the woman who'd let him bring down his walls.

As her body turned to him leaving his plate behind, Eurachis moved quick, his hand reached out and pulled her dish up. Slowly pushing the plate towards her hand, he let her take it in hers while their eyes locked. As she would take the dish his fingers would slowly clasp on hers, and in that moment he searched her. It didn't matter that she would sense it, as obvious as he would be pushing himself into her thoughts, trying to read how she felt. What mattered was that she would feel something, she had to, good or bad. His forwardness be damned but that was who he was. Unblinking, unflinching, his hand warmly overlapping hers beneath the plate...He looked into her, fully aware that diving in would mean exposing himself in the process, vulnerable to Renata like he'd always been.


"...I'd hoped you were..."

His voice trailed quielty, leaving a long empty silence as they looked into one another.

[Meira]

He moved, fast as ever, as she was setting down his plate. before she could react, he'd lifted hers from the table and was pressing it to her hands. Damn him. It'd been years since anyone could move around her like that, unstoppable and... His hand touched hers, while her mind was distracted by her frustrations, and he moved through that connection. It was nowhere near what he was capable of. But it was far more than any had ever dared in a very, very long time. She'd not been prepared. Her confusion, her frustration were there on the surface. He was not the sole target of these emotions, either. Self-directed anger bubbled across her in waves. He would see that clearly as well. The pain as well; that sharp, sudden ache in her chest of something her mind refused to name. It would strike with a heartbeat, flaring and fading within a brief moment to leave only the lingering echo of empty spaces. And with it all, the bone deep weariness of a woman with the weight of the galaxy on her shoulders.

But he does not belong here.

In swift, precise movements, the plate was tilted and slipped from one hand to her other. She moved with the weight of it, letting it settle onto the side table with hardly a sound as she stepped sideways and turned, her hand that touched his slipping nimbly from his grasp just as he spoke. The words, and the fading sensation of him through that brief connection gave her pause as she stood, once again with her back to him. He had hoped. What had been there on the surface, the swirling cocktail of his emotions, had not been an act. The pain, the confusion, and the... the pull. They'd all run deep and mirrored her own. Renata tightened her jaw as she felt it all move through her. Her own confused emotions were enough. She didn't need his as well. After a moment, she pushed them away, lifting her plate and taking a breath to ensure her voice would be steady when she spoke.

"Well," she said, "you know what they say about keeping people close."

They were not gentle words, but Eurachis was not a gentle man. She turned back, plate barely filled and stepped to the table. Her eyes connected with his, defiant and daring him to challenge her for denying his attempt to intrude on her thoughts. She set the plate down on the table, but paused before sitting, unsure of what he would do. Nothing was ever certain where Eurachis was involved. But did he truly think she would just let him in? After all this time? Anger flared, and he needn't be holding her hand to sense it. But Renata reigned it in, holding it close. She had every right to be angry, but losing control would do her no favors. She gestured to his chair, inviting him to sit down as she did the same. He'd wanted to see her. Here she was.

"You were quite clear that you desired an au-" she stopped herself. "...to see me." she corrected. Taking up her glass, Renata took a measured sip of wine. "Here I am. What do you want?"