Ask Matters of the Heart and the Past

[Saragnayan]

Spoiler: Spoiler

Takes place after this thread

Displeasure rolled off of her in waves, and the servants knew when to approach her and when to leave her alone. The blank look on her face and the quiet, simmering malice glinting in her ruby eyes... yes, the servants decided. The latter choice was fitting for Hrist's mood for today.

This was not how the Marauder planned to take her student to Naboo to meet the human who raised her. She had not expected nor intended to physically hurt Xeno that night during the Sith ball, and while it was obviously nor knowingly his intention to make her remember that unpleasant past she thought she had moved on from his actions prompted the memories all the same. The Acolyte was blameless in all regards, and yet she had managed to single-handedly earn his disappointment and a certain bitterness she could not put a name on.

Had Hrist known what heartbreak meant, she would have used the word to describe Xeno's feelings. But she did not – emotions weren't really things she held specialty towards. Despite the years she spent with her Father, expressing nor witnessing emotions other than the ones she had been taught were something she still struggled with on a daily basis.

Wordlessly, she set the teacup down and gazed at the lake before her. Her Father's estate was nestled by the mountainside beside a large, glimmering lake. Being at home and surrounded by the quiet and elegant beauty of nature usually put the Marauder at ease and peace, but the memories of the past and how she inadvertently hurt her dear student in that moment where he was ready to show a certain vulnerability about him haunted every waking moment since that ball-turned-massacre. The event left a bitter taste in her mouth for reasons she could not fully comprehend.

And she still had no idea what Xeno was trying to confess to her that night.

Clad in one of her favorite dresses her Father had purchased for her, Hrist waited for her student to come to the veranda overseeing the lake. She'd let her servants show Xeno to one of the guests rooms, uncaring of their fear towards the Zabrak. Having faith that the Acolyte had heeded her command not to hurt the servants, the Marauder had left him to his devices, his room already equipped with everything he might need – clothes, books, anything else he might require during their stay in her Father's estate.


@Scoobert

 

[Darth Draugr]

The trip was quiet. No words spoken between master and student. After all, that’s what Xeno had to know the relationship as. He was aware they were on the way somewhere important to her. Though his interest was only in his self for the moment.

A droid had been tending to the wounds on his face. He had winced as it was being taken care of. Eventually the stitching was completed. The scars barely noticeable. Definitely something Xeno wouldn’t speak of to anyone. If asked he would more than likely ignore the question.

Then they arrived. The planet was Naboo. He had found out only by the droid making ‘small talk.’ The Zabrak had looked at its beauty. Reminded him of someone in particular he hadn’t wanted to imagine that way. Especially after the events at the Ball. It was a mistake he had made. He didn’t intend to make the same mistake.

They walked into the estate. It was elegant. Large. A place suited for either a powerful person, or a wealthy person. More than likely it belonged to someone of both standings. It was definitely a place that Xeno was out of place in by the reaction of the servants. Seemed a little disrespectful to react to a guest that way. Though, his master wanted for him to go with them, so he would obey. The servants brought him to his room. It was quite large. With a bed. It looked soft. The wardrobe containing elegant clothing. Not exactly his style. He needed a change of clothing though, so he would take his arms armor off, along with the rest of his lower half’s clothing.

As he was undressed he walked to the wardrobe. After opening it he couldn’t find anything that really caught his eye. Majority of the clothing inside was bright colors. Blues, yellows, even greens. The Zabrak was about to change back into what he had on, but he gave it one last look and found a black pant, with white shirt. It was something he could work with.

After getting changed and looking somewhat formal. He rolled the sleeves up his forearms and undid the top button. Allowing for his skin to be seen. Once he finished he looked into the mirror in the room. Took a look at his new scars, and reached to touch them. He could feel where the skin was torn. At least he knew she could slice something open with just her nails.

Then he left the room. On to find his master and who they came to see. Surely it was someone important to her.

@Forsythe Crowholde

 

[Saragnayan]

A butler would approach Xeno as the Acolyte exited his room. The man, employed by the master of the estate himself, was the only servant who did not find the Zabrak intimidating nor scary. Montague, the butler, would give Xeno a once over before bowing politely at the Zabrak in a show of respect as his young mistress's guest.

"Hail and well met, Young Master Xeno," the butler greeted the Acolyte. "Young Mistress Hrist is waiting for you, and had instructed for me to take you where she is. Shall we?"

Without waiting for the Acolyte to respond Montague would lead the way, the two passing down hallways adorned with suits of armor, grieving sculptures, and vases overflowing with flowers of varying sizes and colors. Paintings hung on the walls depicting those of Hrist when she was but a little girl and the man who adopted her. The butler politely made small talk as the two walked, golden eyes glimmering as he gestured at one of the paintings – of Hrist donning a red dress, and was standing behind the old human male who sat on an elegant armchair. The Marauder's hands rested on the old man's shoulders, and both were wearing fond smiles as they gaze at each other.

"You and the Young Mistress were supposed to be meeting with Master Jacques, but he has prior business to attend to off-world and would return later today or tomorrow depending on how quickly his business partners would convince the Master to join their cause."

Montague smiled at the portrait before gesturing once more for Xeno to follow. The two would soon reach the veranda and would find Hrist seated on a chair, drinking tea and gazing at the lake before them. The butler announced his presence out of respect, already knowing that his mistress had already sensed his and Xeno's presence.

"Young Mistress Hrist, I have brought you your student," said Montague before bowing and making his leave after Hrist had thanked him.

The Marauder gestured for Xeno to take the seat across her without a word. Hrist poured him a cup of tea as well. She remained silent for a few moments as she waited for the Acolyte to make himself comfortable.

"We obviously need to talk about what happened at the ball," Hrist began, her voice stern but a hint of confusion was there as well. "Not about Lord Stolas and Malicia's confrontation nor the massacre that happened afterwards. You know too well what I'm talking about."

She tilted her head to gaze at Xeno, ruby eyes lingering on the scars that now adorned his face. The sight reminded Hrist of her own, hidden by the clothes she wore. Scars she would never be proud of. They were proof of the hell she had experienced under the Cadre Project, proof that she was supposed to be a weapon to be made but even then the Masters considered her to be useless. Father... Only Father saw her worth, her uses. Her grip on the teacup tightened, and Hrist set it down before she could shatter the delicate thing.

"I have no clue what you were trying to confess to me that night," she continued. "No clue as to what you were trying to pull when you leaned down towards me. I reacted poorly, very much so. I should have told you that I disliked having someone lean down too close to my face without prior warning or reminder. The action brings back... memories I abhorred."

"Now, tell me – this... confession, you were trying to make. Tell me, so that I may understand why you were so displeased and disappointed with me that night, and even now. In exchange I will tell you what exactly happened when I hurt you that night, so you may understand why I reacted that way as well."

@Scoobert

 

[Darth Draugr]

A butler appeared before Xeno. He wasn't afraid, how refreshing. The Zabrak appreciated someone that could handle the sight of horns, Sith eyes, red skin, and tattoos. It was a lot to take in for the average human. Though this butler seemed rather different than an average human. The man would speak on and on. The acolyte would simply ignore him as he followed and looked ata the artwork on the walls. One was very interesting in particular. She was in it with an odd fellow. Was he her father? If so then that would explain the trip here. And who 'Master Jacques' is.

After a journey through the halls of the estate Xeno and Montague had made it to the room in which Hrist had awaited his arrival. Drinking her tea as always. Then she gestured for him to take a seat. He sat but only because she was his master saying to do so. This was not a conversation he had wanted to talk about. Not with her, though he knew it was best to get it off his chest. She had to know what a kiss was. Then again the expression on her face as she continued on, it was that of sheer confusion. It was becoming clear to him she had not felt affection from another person. How does he go about explaining this to her?

"I can't identify the feelings I have inside me cause I have felt this level of feeling before. Though I can explain what my intentions were at the Ball."

The stood and walked beside his master, then knelt down slowly, as he walked over he spoke to her,

"I am going to kneel next to you, no harm is being done."

His eyes fixed on hers. The Zabrak would take a moment to take in a deep breath and then began to explain his actions to the one he is infatuated with.

"So I have been feeling this comfortability with you, and it has developed into something... stronger. You see, that night when I was looking into your eyes I felt something warm within me. It was you. I couldn't feel anything but you. In the moment I was blind by my feelings that I had thought we shared the same feelings."

Then he slowly moved a hand closer to hers, not touching it just implying that he would when she was comfortable. He could tell something dark would have had to happen to her in order to react the way she did.

"I was going to... well.. kiss you. Because, in my own way, I feel a connection.. love, if you will.. for you.."

The Zabrak had a tear forming in front of this iris which had been fighting between blue and yellow. His feelings were mixed in the moment. Though now it was his master's turn to explain her side. It was hard to admit this to her, he was sure there would be punishment of some sort.

@Forsythe Crowholde

 

[Saragnayan]

Xeno was feeling... soft, towards her again. A flash of pain accompanied it this time, and Hrist knew then and there that this conversation was something she should– must hold with tact and delicacy. Her dear student was showing the same vulnerability he had displayed during the ball, maybe even more so. When he knelt beside her she let him, his intentions made clear in his words and actions.

She could be patient in return. Understanding – more specifically about the things and feelings he spoke about.

Xeno loved her? And he thought she felt the same?

Father had spoken to her about love when she was a child, but not past the concept of it being either a gift or a curse. Young as she was back then, she had carelessly proclaimed her love for her Father, claimed that it was a gift she had received from him so she would give him hers in return. And yet Father had dissuaded her, told her that the greatest thing she could give him was her care, her loyalty, and her devotion, for those were the very same things he could ever give her. There was no love between them – or maybe if there was between father and daughter it was buried beneath the horrors the human had inflicted and the traumas received by the Epicanthix. If there was love between them, it would've been a curse.

So they simply cared for one another, shared devotion and loyalty with each other.

Her student's love for her... was it a gift or a curse?

"I have grown to care for you, my dear Xeno. Not simply as my student, but you as a person," she said finally, holding his gaze. A slender hand moved to cup his cheek, brushing away any tears that would fall from his eyes. "Truth be told I have never known love, what it is nor what it's worth. But I care for you, and I will not ask you to stop if the love you have for me is a gift and not a curse. Will that love drive you to become stronger, more powerful? Or would it render you weak? If you think it will motivate you to become stronger, then love me. Make me feel the same. If not... then discard it at once. I will not create a weak Sith because his love for his Master has made him weak."

She removed her hand from his face and took his. Hrist never once allowed her gaze to focus anywhere else. The Marauder stared at the Acolyte, a challenge written in her ruby gaze. Would his love for her serve to make him stronger and more powerful, or weak and worthless?

"For your sake, I hope that your love is a gift and not a curse."

He had said his piece, and it was up to Xeno to decide which of the choices she'd laid would better suit him. Now... Now it was her turn to explain her side of things, to bring about enlightenment even if she had no desire to talk about her past. But she had made her word, and Hrist was determined to keep it.

With her free hand she reached for a datapad on the table. It was her Father's, detailing the aim of the Cadre Project and her days as a subject under her former Master. Files that should have been destroyed, but her Father kept them so they might not forget where she came from – what she had been saved from.

She navigated across the files, scrolling through logs, notes, and video recordings until one caught her attention. One of the memories she hated the most.

Wordlessly Hrist handed Xeno the datapad before pressing 'play'. He would see a child, small for her age, long red hair matted and unkempt. The child – seven-year old Hrist – was huddled in the corner of the room, facing the door. The girl's movements was constricted by the straitjacket she seemed to be forced to wear.

"Entering Subject 0023's cell," said a disembodied, male voice behind the camera. "All hands, proceed with caution."

Two heavily armed men came into view, protecting another man clad in a white lab coat – a Cadre Master. The smile on his face was anything but benevolent. At the sight of the Cadre Master the girl could be seen pressing herself further against the wall, breaths coming out ragged in fear.

"Ah, yes, good morning to you, too, zero-zero-two-three," said the scientist in a falsely pleasant tone. He approached the girl, leaning down menacingly towards her. "We have quite a lot of things to do today, and so many tests as well. I hope you had a good night's sleep."

The feed would cut to black for a few moments, seemingly a glitch in the video. The feed returned with the Cadre Master lifting the girl up by the collar, face leaning down dangerously close to hers before dropping her carelessly on the floor.

"If the tests come out in ways I do not like, you will be terminated. Useless piece of flesh and bones," spat the Cadre Master with utter displeasure. Sobs could be heard from the girl's crumpled form, and Hrist hit 'stop' before Xeno could see how the man kicked the child repeatedly as if she was trash.

The Marauder remembered that day all too clearly, how she had been forced to fight against adult sentients stronger and bigger than her, then forced to weather, injured as she was, the fierce snowstorm that raged outside the facility to test her endurance. That day had been mild compared to the others, but the presence of her former Cadre Master alone made it absolute hell. That man would needlesly tower over her, his face leaning down to close to hers for her liking in a bid to show who was in control. Her life was made a living hell by that man, and those behind the Cadre Project.

Their deaths by the hand of her fellow Cadre Subjects never erased the horrible memories and experiences away.

@Scoobert

 

[Darth Draugr]

She had seemed to not seem to convey feelings on the level of which Xeno was conveying. She was aware of how he felt now. Though, Xeno was unsure of how this would play out for himself. His love may be a weakness emotionally, but when it comes to battle he would not allow for anything to happen to this woman. Confident in his abilities he would look to her and speak,

“Of course. I won’t fail you master.”

Then she pulled up a data pad and began playing a video. Seemed to be security footage. There was a little girl being held captive. This angered Xeno. Children were one of the only things that set him off entirely. Then some mad scientist came in and began speaking. Was this what she was trying to explain to him?

His eyes never left the screen. Listening to his smug words, seeing a child being hurt.. knowing it was what happened to the woman before him. He could feel his blood boil. His arms grew hot. Static began to spark at his fingertips. His eyes glowing not so much yellow now, they had began glowing a bright red with hints of yellow.

Xeno stood to his feet as the static became full blown electricity, strands of lightning sparking all the way up his arms. The pain was only the burning sensation, yet no damage was being done. Xeno was using a new ability. This power was strong, immense. He could only focus on the paused screen of the child pleading for life. Nothing was going to calm him in the moment.

He took a moment to look away. Then back to his master. Whom he confessed his true feelings to. Then his eyes softened back to yellow. His lightning slowly faded back to the fingers then eventually gone. He was ready to destroy something. Though, he stopped himself so he may not destroy the home he was a guest in.

“They will pay... they can make a powerful Sith without harming children.. no matter how effective.”

Xeno took a step forward and then knelt in front of his master. On one knee he bowed his head, and offered his hand to his master. As he was getting in position he spoke.

“For you master. I would do anything. I will destroy those who harm you. Give me the names and locations and I will deal with them. They will not go unpunished.”

Then he looked back up to her beautiful eyes and stood.

“For you I would do anything.”

Then he offered to help her to her feet. The Zabrak would do whatever it took to appease her. As one would do for their loved ones.

@Forsythe Crowholde

 

[Saragnayan]

Her care for him, for his well-being, was genuine in ways Hrist had never anticipated. She could have just told him that she hated her personal space being invaded without her consent but she had given him a glimpse of her past. A piece of all the horrors and suffering – a piece she would never dare show others.

Now, Xeno was an exception.

His anger cut through the Force like a cleaver, her gaze finding his form as lightning began to form and crackle from his hands. Hrist's eyes narrowed at the display, satisfaction running through her at the new ability the Acolyte's ire had afforded him. She could feel the destruction he sought to unleash, but his control proved more powerful and refined. The lightning sputtered and died down under his control.

He was angry for her. Wanted vengeance for her sake. The corners of the Marauder's lips turned upwards in an approving smile, secretly satisfied that the Acolyte was snugly wrapped around her finger. He was willing to do anything for her. Was this what love could do?

Unnerving. And yet she liked it, if it meant having someone to depend on. Someone who would willingly and wholeheartedly protect her.

So, this was love. At least, Xeno's own way of expressing it. Love was still an enigma to Hrist, after all.

The Marauder took the Acolyte's hand, letting him help her get up on her feet. Hrist, then, did something unexptected – to her, at least.

Reaching up, one hand would find the back of Xeno's head, pulling him down to her level until his face was buried on the side of her neck. Hrist's other arm would rest on the broad expanse of the Acolyte's shoulders, effectively trapping him in her hold.

This... This was fine. She was in control. This embrace was in her control, not his. Not anyone else's. This was fine. She was fine.

"They're all gone, my dear Xeno," she would whisper on his ear, her voice soft and quiet. "They have all paid the price of what they did to me and to the other children. All dead, by the hands of the weapons they wanted to create."

Her hand rested on the back of his neck, thumb brushing against his skin soothingly, taming his anger away. "The Masters were all killed. You have no one to punish now. Only the horrible memories and the nightmares remain. And I'm afraid there is nothing that you can do to free me from their clutches."

@Scoobert

 

[Darth Draugr]

She accepted his hand in helping her to her feet. Thankfully she seemed to be pleased. That was definitely a big plus for Xeno. His affections seemed to make her happy. That was all he wanted. To make her happy, him falling for this woman was only the bonus that had come with his goal. As long as she was smiling and happy then his work is being done properly.

Then as she had made it to her feet, she wrapped her arms around him and her warm embrace holding onto him so very tight. She was pressed against him, tighter than at the Ball. She was hugging him. Closely. This was new, she had never shown this level of affection towards him. Xeno loved it. He felt her whole body and began to hug her back. His arms lower, around her waist. One hand on her mid back and the other on her lower. This was enough to change his whole mood, and the words she spoke into his ears were soft and pleasing. She was his only temptation. The one thing Xeno could melt over.

"Good, if I got hold of them they would have wished for they had recieved."

Then while the embrace was still there he couldn't bring himself to try to kiss her again instead he turned his head slightly to her neck and kissed her there. It was a spot he had learned was sensitive to pleasurings, and that it was enough to send hormones skyrocketing. Though he had not thought of how she could react. He just knew in the moment it felt right.

"In this moment, all I want is you. All I require is you, everything else doesn't matter."

Then he pulled only his head away slightly, just enough to be in front of her and to look into her ruby reds, and see the beautiful woman before him, hugging him, holding him. This would be enough to make a lesser man pop a vessel down below, but instead Xeno could only feel warmth, and true happiness. This was love for sure, at least for him. Maybe one day she would begin to feel the same, until then he was just happy that he received the embrace instead of claws.

@Forsythe Crowholde

 

[Saragnayan]

With his face still on her neck, Xeno would be unable to see the dark smile on Hrist's face as she embraced him, ruby eyes gleaming with evil satisfaction. His feelings were all over the place, and while she still couldn't get the whole gist of what love might be – it wouldn't happen overnight, that much was certain – this was something she could definitely use to her advantage.

"Will you forgive me for hurting you that night, in more ways than one? Because it is my fault, in the first place, for neglecting not to tell you about... my issues with my personal space being invaded without my consent. It is clear that I still carry the wounds and the trauma of my past, and I don't wish to use them so you would understand and accept my apology."

An apprentice who was willing to fight for her, to do anything for her. The darkness in her eyes faded away when she felt his lips on her neck, and Hrist felt nothing. Whether the Acolyte did it to show affection or something else, it prompted no reaction from the Marauder. She would, however, continue to brush her thumb against the back of his neck. If only to make him assume that she appreciated the gesture, that it had comforted her.

When he moved to pull his head away slightly the female Sith let him, offering him one of her most disarming smiles.

"As long as I am not a distraction on your quest to achieve the strength and power you seek," Hrist told him, placing a hand on his cheek and slowly pulling away from the embrace, "then I don't see any problem with that."

Another smile sent his way, and Hrist would lead Xeno back to his chair before levitating her own beside his with the use of the Force. Sitting beside her dear student, her legs crossed, the Marauder would take one of Xeno's hands in hers before directing their conversation to another topic.

"What do you think of the events that transpired during the former Darth Malicia's ball in Dromund Kaas?" she then asked Xeno, ruby gaze locked intently on his face. "Of her downfall by the hands of Lord Stolas?"

@Scoobert

 

[Darth Draugr]

Of course he could forgive her. Trauma really does mess with people. There was really no need for an apology after the video she had shown him. It was something not many people could live through. Much less a child. So the way she is today, Xeno would be able to forgive her for the scars. If anything, they made the Zabrak look more dangerous.

"I forgive you, of course."

His gaze on her beauty. He couldn't sense anything coming from her. Only the exterior presented what he had hoped to see. Xeno would not focus on that, not because he just didn't want to believe she was empty, but because he believed she could one day feel something. The only thing he knew about the feeling of love was that it takes time to develop. Within these months of being with her, he had began developing said feelings. Now he wanted to wait to see if she began to have the same feelings eventually.

Then she mentioned being a distraction. If she was a distraction, he was sure he would've died long ago against the Blixus. The Zabrak was capable of thinking for himself and focusing on his own tasks at hand. Would she be on his mind? More than likely but if it was a serious situation, the acolyte was sure he would be able to handle himself.

"Master, do you doubt I can be professional? I can assure you if the time need be, I will have my own situations to deal with as would you. In the meantime my heart is yours. My quest remains the same, the only difference is I want you there for it."

The Zabrak was adoring the eyes of his master, when she pulled away and sat him down next to the chair she had moved with her mind. His hand was taken to be held. This was nice, he liked the softness of her skin. Then she spoke of the matters from the ball. Of course the events that took place were slightly expected he would answer regardless,

"Well, Lord Stolas did what I expected would happen. The slaughter of her cult was only the icing on the cake. If she were smart she would have hid. At least until the birth of her child. Then she would become powerful once more and stand to fight. Instead she was foolish and invited Sith to a Ball where surely someone was powerful enough to challenge her. Then Lord Stolas did. Not at all a surprise. What are your thoughts?"

@Forsythe Crowholde

 

[Saragnayan]

He understood her remark about her being a distraction... and he didn't.


Hrist wouldn't fault Xeno for it, though. She had always made questions with more that required layers more than one, with answers that went beyond straightforward. And while she never really expected for others to reply with answers she deemed fitting the female Sith would either find the initial response suffice or not. He was still young and had more to learn. The Marauder also didn't doubt his capacity for professionalism nor his passion for achieving his goals.


Her eyes narrowed, her smile widening a fraction. What was he willing to give up for his achievements? And how much, to what extent? Well, Hrist was patient – she could wait for the inevitable. It was either he reach his goal with her being there for him, he would fail, or he would end up simply as another tool to be discarded once his uses have all been exhausted. Xeno was an interesting Zabrak – more so when he threw his love for her in the picture – and the Marauder would watch and guide him with anticipation for where his future might lead him.


“That ball in Dromund Kaas had implications more than one. As part of the Council, it was to be expected that the Eternal themselves made an appearance – and yet Darth Malicia invited them not. Curious, and yet not at all,“ was Hrist's response to the question. She leaned back on her seat, head tilting up to gaze at the wispy clouds overhead.


“It's obvious that Lord Stolas made the challenge to claim Malicia's title and everything she has gained and possessed, but I can't help but think that there might have been another reason for him to have done that. On one hand, there was the implication, on Malicia's part, of overthrowing the Eternal. Underneath that layer was a testament – if it could be called as such – of Lord Stolas's loyalty to the Eternal, and the challenge was made to eliminate the threat to the position of the Dark Lord of the Sith. Again, if Malicia could even be called a threat to the Eternal in the first place. She was powerful, yes, but... “


And there she thought motherhood would have made the former Councillor even more powerful and dangerous. But Malicia had done nothing, had not even given a response before Stolas decimated her. Hrist frowned thoughtfully, head cocking to the side as she followed the track of one particularly fluffy cloud.


“As for Lord Stolas, I can't help but think that there was another layer to his challenge aside from laying claim to Malicia's title in the Council and his supposed loyalty to the Eternal. There was something about him that night, when he spoke with Malicia, when they disappeared out onto the balcony to further their discussion, and them returning with the Arauk'kesh being demanded.“


Hrist never really had any opinion with regards to children, so Lord Stolas taking his enemy's offsprings and letting them live was rather interesting. Shouldn't the Lord be ordering those yet to be born's execution to bring an end to Malicia's lineage? Why did he order for the children to be taken and properly raised? For what purpose, maybe other than having to use them to kill their own mother someday, if Malicia could survive the fate laid down for her?


You will be imprisoned until his children are born.

His children?

“I wonder who the father of those children are for Lord Stolas to spare them. Someone he knows, close to him, perhaps?“ Smile showing teeth and eyes flashing predatorily at the brimming curiosity that threatened to pour from her mind, Hrist laughed out loud at the memory of the Sith Lord – now Councillor, after having claimed Malicia's title – and his ire directed towards the silver-haired woman.


“Say, are you up for hunting down what remained of the Children of Alkis soon?“ she then asked Xeno once her amusement wound down.

@Scoobert

 

[Darth Draugr]

With her hand held in his, so soft, gentle. He would look over to her as she spoke. Her voice soothing. Angelic even. The words poured out smoothly like warm honey. His focus was what she spoke of. The events at the Ball Malicia had thrown. How Stolas had taken advantage of the state she was in. It was smart in Xeno's eyes, and yet when she spoke of her opinion on it, she mentioned many things. Things that to some would go by unnoticed but not the acolyte next to her. He was sure to pick up what she was putting down.

She felt there was bias in the actions of Lord Stolas. Obviously the title of Councilor was on his mind, but ultimately it would be something else. Yet, what else could possibly drive him to do what he did with such conviction? It was a question that remained unanswered as she would then speak of wondering who the father of Malicia's children were. A valid question. The father of course was not known to either of the two Sith in the estate.

"I am not sure who the father of the children are... but if I am hearing you right, it would have to be someone close to Lord Stolas for him to react that way. Why would he be so open about it in that moment? A question that may remain unanswered.."

Xeno refocused as the following question came to him about hunting down Children of Alkis.

"Yes of course master. They are traitors to the Eternal and therefore the Sith Order. Our loyalty is to the Order after all."

@Forsythe Crowholde

 

[Saragnayan]

He quickly caught on to her curiosity about the father of Malicia's children and the mystery man's connection and relevance to Lord Stolas. Hrist typically didn't give an ounce of care towards whatever connections the Sith Lords have behind closed doors, but the events on the ball were very intriguing to say the least. It was not as if she planned to investigate any further reasons behind Lord Stolas' declaration of challenge against former Sith Lord Malicia. She had no desire to incur the wrath of the powerful Darth.

Her focus shifted to his hand in hers. His palm was rough, a testament to his own strength, skill, and training. She ran her thumb softly against the skin of his palm before moving her hand to lace their fingers together. Small gestures that would lure the Zabrak deeper in his feelings for her, and the smile she gave Xeno when she looked back at him could be described as soft and angelic – complete opposites of the true nature she had been shaped into by the Cadre Project.

"Good," she said in response to his professed loyalty to the Order. "Our loyalties should only remain with the Order and the Eternal himself. If it was really part of Malicia's intent to overthrow the Eternal, then she deserved what happened to her. Her plight is a perfect example of the fate that awaited those who would dare to besmirch the name of the Order and the Eternal."

Silence then settled between the two Sith as Hrist gazed up at the clouds. There came a time when she questioned herself about desiring to take a student under her wing. She couldn't call Algus her student since she had simply been tasked by Darth Raze to teach the former Jedi his place in the Order, and she considered the man more of her charge than a learner under her tutelage. Xeno, on the other hand...

There was something about the Zabrak that made her take him with her as her student. Perhaps what differed him from Algus was his desire to actually learn from her. Hrist was used to being needed only by her Father. Maybe it was her desire to be of more use to the Sith Order and the Eternal that made her claim the Zabrak as her own student. And while she hadn't really expected for Xeno to develop feelings for her, to... love her, the Marauder supposed that it was something that might benefit her in the long run.

All those thoughts she kept to herself alone. That was how Father saw and taught her, after all. The only assurance that the old human would not discard her was his care for her, and perhaps she would do the same for Xeno. Despite not knowing the love he felt for her, Hrist cared for the Zabrak more than enough that him being harmed or killed would anger her, terribly so. Maybe not because she lost a willing protector but because she had lost a precious student she had confidently chosen herself.

The Marauder rose to her feet, her hand still twined with Xeno's. She shot him a tiny smirk as she swiped the datapad from the table with her free hand. She had planned some activities for the two of them while they waited for her Father's arrival, and they would accomplish nothing if they remained here in the veranda all day.

"Come, darling," she told her student, a hint of mischief glimmering in her ruby eyes. "We have time to spare until Father's arrival."

Leading Xeno back to the estate with his hand in hers, both Master and student traversed the halls, passing by servants who paused from their work to acknowledge the Mistress of the house and her precious guest. They soon found themselves in the kitchen, and the servants within were quick to depart at Hrist's behest. Plucking an apron and putting it on, the Marauder would begin to assess the vegetables and meats laid out on the counter before winking at the Acolyte.

"Mind giving your Master a hand?" Hrist asked Xeno. "Tell me what you want to eat, and help me cook in return. Malicia's cult can wait."

@Scoobert

 

[Darth Draugr]

The talks of Malicia's treachery was a good topic. The two discussed as most professionals would. Also discussing the loyalty to the Eternal, it was rather common among the Sith within the Order. The Eternal is the most powerful, not to mention even if overthrowing the Eternal is the plan, too many Sith are loyal to them. Death would be an inevitable judgement for whoever dared to attempt the treacherous act of mutiny to the Eternal.

As Xeno was listening to the words of his master, he took notice of the softness within her hand. She held his hand, rubbing her thumb smoothly along the palm of his hand. Then her fingers laced with his. Xeno was drawn in by the look she had given him right after. In this moment there wasn't anywhere in the galaxy he would want to be without the woman across from him. The silence shared between them couldn't be more perfect. Eye contact, and the touch of her skin were enough to make the Zabrak forget why they were here. Then she spoke, and then Xeno remembered they were here to meet her father.

Xeno hadn't heard much about him. Mainly just that he was her father. Maybe tonight would give him the idea of what the father is like. Though on his mind, believe it or not, wasn't the likes of father, no. The only thing he cared to think about was where his master was bringing him. She still held his hand, which was very oaky with him, so he was pretty much being dragged. After a little while they arrived in the kitchen area. It seemed his master wanted to prepare a meal of some sort. The Zabrak couldn't understand why when there were servants who could make the food for them, but he wouldn't question his master's wishes.

"I don't know how much help I would be.. I haven't cooked anything before."

She wanted to make something for him? Now this was definitely heaven. What did he want? He's never really made time to learn what the names of meals were. He mostly just ate what he could. This was a whole new experience for him. The new planet, the professing of his feelings, and the mutual bonding between the two. It was enough to make his brain draw a blank when he was asked what he wanted to eat.

"Well, uh, anything we make will be a pleasure to eat, especially since I made it with you."

His face growing a genuine smile. If a Zabrak could blush, he probably would be blushing in this moment. He looked to his right and noticed a piece of cloth that was a lot like the one his master wore. So he grabbed it and put it on like how she did. It was a weird form of clothing but he didn't question it. Instead he walked up next to the woman of his dreams and leaned his body against the counter top,

"So what do I do?"

@Forsythe Crowholde

 

[Saragnayan]

"Well, my dear, we'll just have to change that," she patiently told him with regards to his admission of not having cooked anything before. It was easy to tell that the experience was relatively new to Xeno even if he didn't mention it in the first place. And while his posture and the way he largely held himself did not betray his awkwardness there were still small signs here and there that never escaped Hrist's gaze. Had her student not aspired to become a powerful Sith his comment about cooking food with her almost made the Marauder call him adorable.

Because he was being one, whether he liked it or not.

Bright, amused laughter escaped her at the sight of the Zabrak putting on an apron like hers, something only her Father and the butler Montague could separately pull out of her. Hrist adjusted the knot on Xeno's apron before grinning up at him rather mischievously.

"Wash and peel these, please," she told Xeno as she pushed a small basket of potatoes towards him. Hrist took a peeler knife from a kitchen drawer and offered it to the Acolyte. The Marauder then retrieved a skillet and set in on the stove before moving on to wash her hands. Drying her hands with a towel, Hrist then retrieved a small jar of kosher salt and began to sprinkle two tablespoons of the salt on all sides of the filet. Once done she carefully set the filets aside, letting the meat absorb some of the salt and letting them rest before cooking.

Checking on her student's progress, the female Sith shot Xeno another smile. Reaching out through the Force Hrist levitated a cutting board and a knife, directing them on the counter with one hand as she meticulously picked more ingredients from the selection laid out before her.

"Once you're done peeling the potatoes, I want you to slice them into one-eighth to one-fourth inch rounds," the Marauder instructed Xeno as she herself began to chop up some onions. "Maybe we should bake a cake after this, too," Hrist mused. "Chocolate is my favorite. Maybe it could be your favorite as well."

It was her favorite food not just because of the taste, but the memories that came along with it. Chocolate cake was the first reward Father gave her back in her days as a Cadre subject, and the human continued that little tradition long after the two of them left the Cadre Project. Hrist halted her movements and turned to look at Xeno again.

"Back during my days as a Cadre subject, Father would always give me a slice of chocolate cake whenever I did a good job," she said with a smile. "You've been a good student so far – better than I had initially thought. You're ambitious. Strong. Well, now it's settled. We'll bake a cake as well."

@Scoobert

 

[Darth Draugr]

Spending time with this woman was what he wanted. Now was that time, and if she wanted to cook food then learning to cook isn't that bad. So far all he had to do was peel potatoes. The Zabrak began peeling off the skin to the potatoes with the tool that she gave him. It was really easy to do. So far cooking isn't too hard. Looking over to the Sith next to him, he noticed a smile on her face. This was kind of fun.

Then the Sith next to her told him about cutting them into certain sized pieces. Xeno didn't know how to measure the pieces properly but he did his best at chopping the potatoes into smaller pieces. The Zabrak was having a great time with the woman teaching him to cook. She was clearly enjoying the cooking as well. She spoke of making a cake, and a chocolate one at that. Xeno never had cake, or chocolate. So when she said it could be his favorite too, he simply smiled and said,

"If you say so. I'll have to take your word for it."

Xeno had finished the cutting of potatoes and stopped to listen to the words of his master. The words that were telling him of the way she was rewarded by her father. It was meaningful to her. Something she trusted Xeno enough to know about. Something she wanted to share with him. The Zabrak nodded after she spoke and waited to be told how to do the making of cake.

"Well then let's make a cake.... uh.. how do we do that?"

@Forsythe Crowholde

 

[Saragnayan]

The smile Hrist gave Xeno at his response about baking cake, of all things, was something the Acolyte had most probably never seen before. While the Marauder reserved the look of unbidden joy to her face for her Father – both of them – the young Zabrak had single-handedly managed to bring it out of his Master simply by agreeing to bake and asking how it was done.

Ruby eyes grew wide with pleased surprise, irises the color of blood glimmering with happiness as if she was being praised for a job well done. It was only fair to share to Xeno the relevance the mere thought of chocolate cake had to Hrist, considering that he now numbered among the very few people who were given the privilege to catch even a sliver of the past she wished never existed – save for the facts that that same past had blessed her with a name and the ones she called and called her family. She supposed the Zabrak was both lucky and blessed to be gifted with the degree of trust Hrist was giving him. All made and shared willingly to reel him even deeper and further within her grasp.

But if she had wanted a pet, then all liberties to think for himself would have been stripped from his grasp from the very beginning. She had been a pet once – she would not be making one knowing how miserable and painful the process was. At least she didn't consider making the Acolyte her pet.

Hrist stared at Xeno, gaze deep and penetrating as if she was reading his mind, his soul. The genuine curve of joy was still ever present on her lips as she decided that she won't just be making cake with him. No.


She decided she was going to make a Sith Lord.

“What to name you afterwards...“ murmured the Sith woman, unaware that she had whispered the words out loud. Smile widening a little she took Xeno's hand and led him to the other side of the kitchen, a spring almost in her steps as she pulled up a mental list she had used the moment one of the oldest servants in the estate taught her how to bake. “First, my dear, we'll be needing....“

——
​

Cooking and baking were entirely different things, but each brought a sense of calm and domesticity that helped tamp down the bloodthirst that simmered just beneath the thin veneer of control Father have taught and given the she-beast they called their daughter.

After a simple meal cooked by both Master and student, the two still occupied the table in the dining hall, sitting across each other near the head of the table where Father usually sat. As the servants cleared away the plates and cutlery, the butler Montague made his entrance, stepping in close beside Hrist and delivering to her the news she wanted to hear with a deferential bow.

“The Master of the Estate has returned, milady,“ said the butler, his cool voice edged with amusement as golden gaze swept briefly over to Xeno. “And the Master wishes to see you and your student now.“


Pressing a red napkin to delicately dab at her lips, Hrist inclined her head in acknowledgment before she rose from her seat, ruby eyes zeroing in on her precious Acolyte. “Has he just arrived? What about him? Are we seeing them together?“


The barely contained excitement in the Sith woman's voice prompted a fond smile from the white-haired butler. Gesturing respectfully with one hand, his mistress's question went unanswered as he led her and Xeno out of the dining hall and out into the estate's garden. There, the two Sith would behold a pair of aging men, both identical from the way they dressed, the way they held themselves, and down to the colors of their heterochromatic eyes. Both were clad in grey formal suits, trousers and coats the color of blood, and black gloves. While one of the pair shifted his gaze to regard the newcomers, his mirror image seemed to be more interested with studying the dark clouds gathering on the horizon. The only thing that distinguished one twin from the other were the canes they were holding – the one on the left held white while the other, black.

Montague silently made his exit at one twin's nod of silent thanks for his service. Two-colored eyes then settled warmly over at Hrist, purposefully ignoring Xeno in favor of making a greeting. Gloved hands rose at chest level, setting aside the white cane, before signing,

“My dear alyssum. You look as beautiful and graceful as ever.“


Hrist giggled lightly at the praise before rushing forward to give her Father a hug. “Father! I have missed you!“ she exclaimed, then shifted her gaze to the twin to his right. “And you as well, Father!“

Gaze shifting from the clouds down to the smiling face looking at him from his twin's embrace, Jacques Aufreisser simply placed a gentle hand on top of Hrist's head before looking at the Zabrak with a neutral expression. The Force slithered and ebbed around the old man, however, and Xeno would feel as if he was being thoroughly judged and examined not by those pair of blue-gold eyes. Jacques Aufreisser was examining the Acolyte through the Force itself, analyzing and memorizing the Zabrak's presence and signature through the Force as well as gauging the latter's strengths and emotions. The action would certainly feel invasive on purpose, assessing how the young Acolyte would react and defend himself.


Joaquin Aufreisser, on the other hand, continued to ignore Xeno and opted to continue to speak to Hrist using hand signs.


“Is he a pet?“ signed Joaquin, though very much like his twin brother the emotion and idea behind the question would ring loud and clear through the Force, letting the Acolyte know of the inquiry on purpose.


Left under the scrutiny and mercy of her fathers, Hrist respectfully stepped aside and let the two men do as they saw fit. However she didn't leave Joaquin's question unanswered, and she spoke, ruby eyes finding Xeno's.


"Never, Father. A Sith Lord in the making, if he so desired."


Hrist's response would feel genuine, unforced, as a shadow of seduction momentarily darkened her gaze. Her answer to one of her fathers' question would hopefully make being held under a pair of former Cadre Masters' scrutiny more bearable, and despite the twins' undeniable strength in the Dark Side of the Force they were still mindful not to accidentally turn the Zabrak's mind to useless mush. Their presence in the Force were intrusive, yes, but the fact that they both were giving Xeno a chance to defend from their mental assault was enough proof that they held great interest towards the young Zabrak. After all, their daughter rarely gave another person the privilege to even beheld the men who raised her as their own.

@Scoobert

 

[Darth Draugr]

This was a whole new experience. Now he could cook.. kinda. It definitely isn't Xeno's strong suit but he was doing his best to please this woman he was sharing the bonding moment with. The Zabrak was having a good time trying these new things, and felt in the force that his master Hrist was feeling the same. She had a smile on her face, and suddenly muttered something. Xeno did take notice of it. Hadn't any clue what she meant by it, but it was definitely something he would remember later.

----

The cake was baked, meal was prepped. The two Sith had done a great job with their cookings. At least that was how the acolyte felt. Surely this meal would be well enough to please the father she had spoke of. Just then the butler had returned to inform the two Sith enjoying their time together that the men they were waiting for had made it back. It was a good thing it seemed as Hrist was excited. The sound of her voice, the feeling of happiness, the higher pitched tone. She was genuinely happy. It was different than when she had made it known she was happy with Xeno. Another note being made by the student. Though, not thinking on it too much he would walk with his master behind the butler to meet the men who fathered this beautiful woman.

The pair of Sith had finally arrived at the garden. There were a couple men who looked fairly old. Dressed in divine suits with canes. They were quite identical aside from the colors of the canes. Interesting for sure. They had starting using hand gestures to speak to Hrist. Were they mute? Xeno was unsure of how to speak to them until Hrist began to speak to them as normal. They must have been mute. No other way to figure out why they don't use a voice. They also seemed to not care Xeno was present. A little annoying but they were speaking to their daughter so he would let it slide without acknowledgement.

When the eyes of the old man had met Xeno's, there was a wave of the force flowing around and through Xeno. The feeling was intrusive. It was annoying as well. The Zabrak would keep his calm though, as he would let the man analyze only the presence and strength in the force. Xeno was defending through the force calmly. His yellow eyes glaring to the old man being disrespectful enough to the acolyte by not greeting himself before trying something like this. It would shameful for Xeno to let out his weaknesses to a stranger on such short notice.

The one still signing to Hrist stood off to the side. What in the hells were they signing? The Zabrak would listen to the words of Hrist as the pair of men were both intruding into the head of Xeno. The acolyte was growing angrier at the presence of others in his head. Sparks began to form around his fists as he clenched them to try and relieve some of the pain of the pair of men being in his head was causing. When it began to become too painful Xeno would use the force to push them back just enough to interrupt the intrusion of his head. The sudden relief was sweet and the body of Xeno went a little weak. Dropping to a knee, he grabbed his head with his right hand.

"The hell kind of greeting is that to a guest?"

Xeno let the words fall out of his mouth without realizing it was out loud. This was not the greeting he had anticipated from the men. The words from Hrist saying he could be a Sith lord remained in his head. The trip to this place just went from fun to annoying real quick.

@Forsythe Crowholde

 

[Saragnayan]

There once was a time where Hrist – way back when she was still called Cadre Subject 0023 – had no idea that the man who took her from her incompetent Cadre Masters had a twin brother. Jacques and Joaquin Aufreisser were both stoic men by nature, their personalities and behaviors nearly identical that it was difficult for those who knew them to differentiate one twin from another. It was Jacques who took Hrist away to claim her as his daughter, and it was Joaquin who looked after her when the older Aufreisser twin was away for some clandestine pursuits. Young Hrist had no idea that she was calling two different (but very alike in more ways than one) men "Father", and when she discovered that Father – Jacques – had a twin brother, the title simply stuck to Joaquin as naturally as it did with his brother.

Attention now focused on Xeno alone the twins approached the downed Zabrak, multi-colored gaze locked on the Acolyte. He was smart and intuitive enough to push back both the invading presences in his mind, but the brief period the Aufreisser Twins spent in the young Sith's mind was more than enough for them to know him as a person. This boy was so unlike their daughter, and it amused both of them that she had chosen to take him under her wing when she herself claimed that she had no aptitude for teaching.

Curious. Perhaps Hrist had found something useful about this Zabrak she called Xeno. Curious and amusing.

The young Zabrak's verbal complaint earned a mirthful laugh from Jacques, disproving the Acolyte's assumption that the twins were mute. Selectively, Joaquin was. But Jacques?

"The dog barks. It seems he knows how to bite as well," Joaquin signed, eyes narrowed with mirth and lips curled in an amused smirk.

"Not a common dog, dear brother," Jacques corrected him with another laugh. A gloved hand would stretch towards Xeno, one finger curling in a come hither motion, a silent command for the Zabrak to let himself be pulled up on his feet. Should Xeno allow it, he would find that the old man's strength belied his age as he would pull the Acolyte up smoothly and effortlessly. "A warrior, a soldier, the great hound who wished to watch over his Master's footsteps."

Joaquin, the more protective of Hrist between the brothers, continued to gaze over at Xeno with narrow eyes. The younger twin seemed even more skeptic upon hearing his twin's words.

Knowing her fathers all too well, Hrist did not bother interjecting in their discussion as she approached her precious student. The smile on her face did not diminish even after seeing Xeno being slightly tormented by the twins upon their first meeting. It was to be expected, really – more so from a set of parents who shared custody over their one and only daughter.

"Pardon my Fathers'... introduction, my dear Xeno," she sweetly told the Acolyte, one hand cupping his cheek and her thumb gliding smoothly against his skin. The display of affection was not lost on the Aufreisser Twins – Jacques chuckled again while Joaquin glared. "This is the first time I've ever brought a guest in our humble estate. They're bound to be curious... interested."

They didn't have to be intrusive, surely. But where was the fun in tormenting the seemingly object of their daughter's affection?

"You certainly did bring an interesting guest, our dearest alyssum," commented Jacques with a smirk. "And from what we have seen from those surface thoughts, young Xeno seemed to be very... fond of you. Perhaps you have been a good Master to him." Gaze shifting from Hrist to Xeno, the older Aufreisser twin then asked, "Young man. Are you perhaps interested in heading off to Taris? The Dark Side of the Force whispers very interesting things that will unfold in that planet in the near future."

"Interesting, indeed," signed Joaquin in agreement, which Hrist promptly interpreted for Xeno to understand as Joaquin had forgone conveying his words through the Force. "The planet will most likely be the Moon, devoured by the Moon-eater. Conquered, if not razed to the ground."

Conquered? Had the Eternal laid eyes upon the planet, wanting to claim in to further the Sith's control and expand their territory?

"Shall I go with him to Taris?" Hrist asked, pulling her touch away from Xeno to look at her fathers.

"No, dear," answered Jacques. "Your business is elsewhere, and any plan you might have with your student will have to be postponed for now."

"Father, me and my student are about to hunt what remained of Malicia's cult," the Marauder explained, trying to persuade the two men out of making her drop her plans. "I've already–"

For the first time since meeting Xeno, Joaquin verbally spoke.

"You wouldn't mind if your dear Master won't be there with you should you choose to go to Taris, would you? Xeno Brogroo."

@Scoobert

 

[Darth Draugr]

These man dared to play with his mind, then call him a dog. Who did they think they were? Xeno was respected on Dathomir, and the Sith all show him respect. Then there's these two. They had been nothing but rude to the acolyte the entire time he had been in their presence. The Zabrak was only holding back his frustrations because he knew if he would attack like he wanted to do, the three of them would dispose of him quickly.

Instead, he held back and held his tongue. Not like he wanted to speak to them any more. Not after this attack on his mind. Being that his master had tried to justify their actions it was quite the wrong way to learn things about a person. There was nothing she could say to make Xeno comfortable with how they had come to him.

When they began to speak of sending Xeno to Taris, he had been a little hesitant on the thought but he knew the Sith were planning to invade. This would be good experience for him. Though, as they continued to speak he noticed they would be meaning for his master to not be there with him. It was a little different from what he was used to. The visible confusion on his face would be enough for them to see what he had thought.

Then the one who had been silent the whole time had finally spoke. To ask if he would be fine on his own.

"I am fine taking a challenge on my own. I have handled myself well, I will be fine."

The Zabrak looked to his master and gave a look of reassurance, followed by a nod. He knew he needed to experience battle and if he had to do it on his own then so be it. This would be the wishes given and he would not disappoint. For his love, not for the jack holes who raised her.

@Forsythe Crowholde