Ask New Beginnings

[Zira Suvan]

Zira had never seen opulence like this. She considered the Sith to be broke and living in the shadows. However, it became clear that they did it by choice while sitting amidst wealth and prosperity through underground networks. Thule was such an example, the planet of the Dark Lord herself. Zira, as a mere slave, of course would likely never be in her presence. However, since becoming the property of a Sith Champion, she was exposed to the world of Sith.

She was in an ornate room in her Master’s chambers. She was using a brush to comb through Iymril’s silky hair. Zira had finished applying fragrant products to their locks to keep the shine and health of the silvery strands. The tiefling was dressed for her role, the slave collar missing in place of her master possessing a vial of her blood should she ever disobey.

There was a massive, luxurious mirror in front of where the Sephi was seated with her standing behind them. She fell into her everyday duties of serving Iymril in various different ways and right now it was grooming. They were discussing plans to travel and going on a mission. As a slave, she had no real purpose outside of what Iymril dictated, but she found the simple acts of grooming and brushing their long hair oddly cathartic.

“Do you visit your home often, my lord?” Zira asked during a lull in the conversation as she worked, her fingers gently weaving through their hair as she began to intricately braid a few strands. Normally she said nothing with her prior masters, but Iymril all but demanded engagement from her beyond being a simple wallflower while they were alone. The tiefling was out of her element with what felt like normalcy in the first time in her life - where she could ask questions and converse with her owner.

@Apollyon

 

[Iymril]

While Iymril taught on Umbara, their home was on Thule. The reasoning was simple, Umbara was a world shrouded by an ever present gloom. Everything outside of the bio-luminescent fungal life was shrouded in greys and blacks. It was positively Sith-y…also it was absolutely drab. Thule on the other hand? The world was alive and their kind were treated like divinity here. To say Iymril enjoyed living in the lap of luxury was an understatement.

The home they lived in wasn’t quite the manor their family on Thustra had enjoyed. But it was larger than most other homes on the world. But to Iymril is was a modest six bedroom, five bathroom, three story starter home. It provided Iymril all the creature comforts they needed. Even if they wanted another ten to fifteen rooms added onto it and maybe an extra floor or two.

Nothing too excessive.

Today, Iymril sat in the room dedicated to simply getting ready for the day. Their clothes were hung on racks that wrapped around three quarters of the circumference of the room. The final wall was half covered by a mirror and the other half a massive make up center where they could do the final steps of getting ready. They sat in just a pristine white robe with one leg crossed over the other. They were caught in the most important decision of their day, what color to paint their nails.

“What do you think Zira?” They asked without looking at her. “Ruby to match my eyes?” Iymril asked holding up the bottle. “Or this deep purple to accent my skin?” They showed her as the alternative. “Or perhaps gold?” They were quickly becoming overwhelmed with the choices before them.

The decision was cut short with Zeri’s question. It caused Iymril to glance up at her in the mirror. Their ears dipped slightly, they thought she spoke of Thustra.

“I haven’t been to Thustra in…a long time.” They muttered. “Somethings were needed to be sacrificed for me to get where I am today.” They told her. “I don’t regret it but I do miss home.”

They would fall silent for a little while before turning their attentions back to the nail polish. Iymril cleared their throat and blinked rapidly.

“So which one?”

@Sreeya

 

[Zira Suvan]

The ears dipped. She was beginning to read Iymril and she could tell this was a potentially painful topic. In truth, Thustra sounded beautiful and she had hoped that there was a visit to the planet in her future. Based on the reaction, that was unlikely. Zira kept her thoughts to herself - despite Iymril giving her more liberty than most to voice her thoughts, she knew better than to express desires openly.

“A lilac, my lord,” Zira said, “It will contrast your skin and I noticed you have some matching earrings,” She said as she moved past the polish they had set out, opening a specific cabinet to take out the bottle in question. Zira walked back towards them, grabbing a bottle of moisturizer to put on their face before she began to do their makeup. After the cream, she grabbed the primer, applying it to their smooth skin. The entire time, she focused on what she was doing, her own face close to theirs while she diligently worked to prepare them.

“Are you hoping to catch the eye of a special someone?” Zira asked with a smile as she reached for the foundation. Deciding that Iymril’s skin was already largely flawless, she instead grabbed the skin tint, starting to apply it gingerly on their face. Her smaller stature meant she awkwardly leaned over their freakishly long legs to do their makeup.

@Apollyon

 

[Iymril]

When Zira picked a polish other than what they had suggested Iymril was curious. They had all but forgotten the lilac nail polish and the matching set of earrings they had purchased as well. When Zira came back from fetching them and the facial cream they used, Iymril’s ears were perked.

“These are perfect.” They told her calmly. Iym reached up and took the point of Zira’s chin between their thumb and index finger. “What would I do without you?” They asked her before letting their hand fall back to their lap.

Iymril was glad to have Zira around, not only because she was great in bed but because it had made life easier. She did all of the necessities around the house which allowed Iymril plenty of time for their studies or preparation for classes at Umbara. But the weeks of allowing Zira to become adjusted to her new freedoms were coming to an end. It was time she start earning her keep and expanding Iymril’s influence.

And they had picked the first target already.

Darth Arcanos was a powerful man, the ruler of a burgeoning empire. The man had soldiers and warriors and sorcerers under his command, all of which would die for him in a moments notice. But why have any of them die? Why trade their lives so easily when you could simply, not.

Arakyd Industries was a manufacturer of war droids that the Sith had partially in their pocket. But one of five members of the board of directors simply wouldn’t do. Iymril aimed to change that in their favor. Bringing a new surplus of war droids that could be funneled into Korriban’s defenses…and used to expand their own power-base as well.

This meant that one of the two board members they were going to recruit would need to securely be in Iymril’s pocket. Which is where Zira would come in. Iymril intended on having her seduce Orys Melne, a boring middle aged human man. He was married and a father of four, grandfather of two. This only meant that he had something to lose when blackmailed. It also meant, if Zira was successful, they would have a dna sample to use in rituals should Orys get any wise ideas.

It was Zira’s voice that pulled Iymril from their thoughts when she asked if they intended to catch the eye of someone special. One of Iymril’s ears flicked slightly at the question.

“In a manner of speaking, yes.” They told her. “But not in the way you’re thinking Zira.” Iymril added with an arched eyebrow. “Part of thriving in both our worlds is becoming invaluable.” Thet explained. “I intend on doing just that.”

As the Tiefling slave finished preparing them for the day, Iymril would explain their plan to her. Afterwards, they would use the Force to open up a jewelry cabinet and tug a single necklace from their collection. Before motioning for Zira to lean her neck down and putting it on her.

“The primary jewel in this has a micro-camera in it.” They explained. “You will wear this while you seduce Orys.” Iymril told her. “You needn’t actually sleep with him if you don’t want to but it must seem that way. And I will require a genetic sample as well.” They explained. “Succeed and you will be rewarded.” Iymril offered off-handedly.

This reward was normally just letting her choose what she cooked for dinner. Or letting her choose the positions they fucked in at night. But this time, Iymril intended for the success to be something meaningful.

“And pick a nice evening dress that I sewed for you.” They told her. “You must look as lovely as possible.”

@Sreeya

 

[Zira Suvan]

Don’t need to sleep with Orys if she didn’t want to? Zira had to bite back from chuckling at that. It was always a job to her. She never wanted to. Her job was to sell the illusion that she did all these things by choice. To make the client forget that this was all technically something as mundane to her as doing a desk job. She could enjoy sexual exploits while her body betrayed her, but her mind was almost always detached and far away. Zira had never experienced lovemaking before and she knew she never would.

“I will do what is needed, my lord,” Zira answered calmly as Iymril placed the necklace on her. After Iymril’s makeup was done, she took time to apply her own. She made sure that everything Iymril needed was tended to first, and she cleaned up their chambers before sitting down to prepare herself. The tiefling took her time dolling herself up before picking out a dress. She had to admit that Iymril’s fashion senses were immaculate. Zira admired every ensemble they designed, and she had to bite back from suggesting that they start a clothing line.

She emerged after a moment, wearing a dress that hugged her curves and contrasted vividly with her blue skin. She would stand out in a crowd and draw exactly the kind of attention she needed to lure a target like Orys.

“Where are we going, my lord?” Zira asked as she put on some golden heels to match the dress.

@Apollyon

 

[Iymril]

“I know you will.” Iymril replied calmly to Zira’s statement.

In honesty, they were hesitant about having her seduce Orys. Not out of some moral conflict, but because it meant sharing what was theirs with another. Zira was beautiful and in their vanity, Iymril enjoyed dressing her up in gorgeous outfits. They liked seeing her make up and hair done. It fed into their ego. She fed into their ego.

But they couldn’t allow for such sentiments. Zira was a piece on the board. One that needed to be used appropriately and not hoarded away. And so, they would play her to ensure their rise to power. In return, they would ensure that Zira was happy and wanted for nothing.

Once their make up was finished Iymril would examine themself in the mirror. Everything was beyond satisfactory. They glanced to Zira and nodded before standing up to leave the room. As they glided towards the door to leave the room filled with dresses and heels and purses, they’d drop their white robe onto the floor. Leaving the room completely nude and heading into a different room dedicated to purely more masculine clothes.

Iymril would take their time picking their suit, shirt, belt, dress shoes, tie, pocket square, and chrono. But when they returned to the room, they were ready as well. Their expressionless face would pause to admire Zira in the dress they had made for her.

“Absolutely ravishing.” They offered as a compliment, their ears twitching to show it was genuine. Iymril would offer Zira their arm as they went to leave the modest little home.

While they walked towards the spaceport, Iymril would answer Zira’s question. “Vulpter, it’s in the Deep Core.” They stated simply. “That is where Arakyd Industries head quarters are located.” They explained. “It’s a wealthy urban world, so find some place classy you might like to eat at.” Iymril told her. “If all goes well, we might have reason to celebrate.”

@Sreeya

 

[Zira Suvan]

Zira allowed herself to glance at Iymril’s nude form when they stepped out of their robes. After all, it was her job to pick up those robes, fold them and neatly put them away. Her eyes scanned over their flawless form and lithe, but toned build. She envied them in some ways for their perfect skin, the sheen of the obsidian surface, the way they could transform into an ethereal beauty whether presenting as masculine or feminine. She noticed they stepped into the men’s side of their dressing room this time.

When Iymril finally emerged, Zira allowed herself a faint smile, “You look stunning, my lord,” She said, her tone genuine. She could be dissociated with things physically but still find others attractive. Sephi and Annfyn both had a habit of being exceptionally pretty and rivaling Hapan, Zeltron and other traditionally beautiful races.

Zira took their arm as the two stepped out, “Targets like Orys will be more likely to stray if they think the other person has just as much to lose,” She explained, “If we pose as a married couple, this will be far more effective. He will think he has won me from you. Won me from someone far more appealing than them. It will be an ego boost,” It was clear Zira knew how to play this game and had done it many times. But could Iymril get over their ego enough to pose as a husband to a tiefling?

The journey there was uneventful with Zira remaining in the crew quarter the entirety of the trip. If Iymril desired to have her before they landed, she would oblige and serve him any other way they wanted. Before long, they were on their way to the gala, Zira taking a moment to do last minute fixes to her hair. At one point, she reached over to do the same to Iymril, placing idle strands of hair behind their ear and bringing out her purse to touch up their makeup so they looked absolutely perfect.

The speeder pulled up near a sprawling mansion that had corporate executives from all over the galaxy. Zira could have sworn she spotted the infamous Ezra Thorne walking in surrounded by a throng of droids and adoring fans. The part Sephi looked detached and bored, his icy silver gaze fixed ahead as he entered the mansion. Wasn’t the man a Jedi?

None of that mattered right now - she had a job to do and she would do it.

@Apollyon

 

[Iymril]

“Of course I do.” Iymril stated flatly in response to Zira’s compliment.

They knew how attractive they were. They put effort into being as enticing as possible. They had purchased Zira because they had found her appealing. Their tastes were impeccable.

As the pair walked towards the spaceport, Iymril realized another addition the starter home needed. A private landing bay for their ship. That way there would be no need to work up a sweat by walking through Thule to get to the spaceport.

Their attention shifted when Zira made her suggestions. It gave them pause. They could see the logic behind posing as a married couple. It made sense to make the bait even more enticing for Orys. But a part of Iymril’s mind hated the idea of their spouse, even the charade of one cheating on them.

Internally they seethed at the idea.

“Then, you will be my blushing bride.” Iymril replied. “Who is unhappily bound to a cold distant tyrant of a husband.” They glanced down to Zira at that.

The trip to Vulpter was a calm one. Iymril did take Zira once on their journey, the lure of the dress she wore made her too appealing to deny. And seeing her slide out of it for them made the voyage more memorable. With their needs met, Iymril found themself a little more even keeled. They spent the rest of the trip meditating, focusing of their ambitions, and finding a set of rings for them to wear.

Upon arriving, they allowed Zira the time to do the final touches on her appearance. They had taken the time to wave their hair and Zira tucking it behind their ear caused them to glance her way. It had caught them slightly off guard but they allowed her to perfect their appearance as well.

“Thank you, dearest.” They told her, a dry joke for the suggestion to pose as a married couple.

With that Iymril would offer Zira a pair of rings. One had a massive Coruscanti diamond in the center and the other was a diamond encrusted gold band. For their part, Iymril wore a simple gold band on their ring finger.

“To sell the story.” They told her simply, taking her hand and sliding both rings onto her finger. “Enjoy being noblewoman Auvryt'tar for the evening.” They said before stepping off of the ship.

Once they had arrived at the middle class home that the CEOs called a mansion, Iymril opened the door to the speeder. They would allow Zira to step out first, selling the lie that they were married even further.

They could tell that she wasn’t starstruck by the glitz and glamor of it all. Good. Iymril had picked her because she had been able to interact with them and not freeze up. They took that as someone who had grown adjusted to interacting with members of high society. Even if she wasn’t one of them.

As they walked to the mansion’s entrance, Iym spotted Ezra Thorne. Inwardly they scowled at the presence of a thin blood. They didn’t comment on it, but their ear slightly pinned themselves back in disgust. Despite their reaction, their own hypocrisy wasn’t lost on them. They actively slept with a Tiefling, if she became pregnant they would have sired a half breed as well. One they couldn’t terminate because of how difficult it was to reproduce in their species. They’d simply have to exist with it as a mark of shame, forever.

“Are you ready my love?” They asked dryly as they got to the entrance to the party within. They intended on keeping up with their role.

Regardless of her answer, Iymril would nod to the door attendant and he would open the door for the pair of them. Moments after walking in, Iymril and Zira would both be offered champagne, wine, liquor, and Hors d'oeuvres. They would take two fluted glasses of champagne and hand one to Zira. But took none of the offered food, none of it was vegetarian and so none appealed to them.

Eventually Iymril noticed Orys standing and speaking to another couple. His wife made pleasantries with the two women while her husband talked about Arakyd’s upcoming line of pleasure bots. A thought Iymril found disturbing, sleeping with a robot? How performative.

“And there he is.” Iymril told her. “It’s time to prove your worth, Zira.” They whispered as they walked towards Orys.

They would wait patiently until Orys had finished with the Zeltron couple. Then Iymril would step forward to meet her target.

“Good evening, I am Iymril Auvryt'tar.” They stated as an introduction. “Scion of my House on Anfynn. It is a pleasure to meet you Mister and Misses Melne.” They continued with a polite nod of their head. “This is my wife.” They stated, offering a simple introduction. “She’s no where near as stunning as yours though.” They lied and forced a small smile to their lips.

Iymril would regale Orys with the reason they needed war droids as a way of protecting their wife. Ensuring that she wouldn’t fall victim to attacks. A line of crock but one needed to give Zira her opening.

At that moment, Iymril acted as if they had an incoming call. They excused themself and purposefully left Zira with Orys and his wife alone. Meanwhile, Iymril would be off to meet with the other board member and secure her vote.

@Sreeya

 

[Zira Suvan]

Of course Iymril had real rings ready for the occasion. Zira stared in wonder at the massive diamond on her finger, her thoughts briefly drifting to the vagrant Milo and how he would have reacted to such a prize. There was a bit of anxiety as she took inventory of all the expensive items on her person. If anything was out of place, Iymril would find creative ways to torment her.

She kept her nerves together, easing into the role of a wife. Zira plastered on a fake smile, “Of course, dear,” She said breezily as they entered the hall. Zira took a sip of the champagne, her gaze following Iymril’s when they pointed out Orys. His wife was appreciably attractive - but she was of course an older woman. No amount of makeup could hide all the creases and crow’s feet.
Zira was impressed by the polite way Iymril introduced themself, a complete shift from their usual icy demeanor. She briefly wondered if the ISC President Thorne was secretly just as frigid despite the ‘man of the people’ spiel he projected for years. The backhanded insult from Iymril elicited a perfectly manufactured half smile of irritation. Zira even chugged some of her champagne at that, giving a bitter laugh, “Well, darling, they called us a smart match, not a beauty match,” She quipped back dryly, completely selling the image of a powerful woman of her own right that wouldn’t cow to her husband. One that wasn’t afraid to use a double edged knife to insult both herself and Iymril and reveal their marriage was political. It was just enough to reveal there was trouble in paradise.

Orys and his wife chuckled awkwardly, though Zira caught the man’s gaze lingering on her for a moment. He couldn’t exactly refute the statement Iymril made without offending his wife so he remained silent. However, Zira could tell he was privately impressed by her quip. His wife was the meek, subdued type.

When Iymril floated away, Zira was left alone with the couple. She took a sip of her drink, glancing at the wife, “I love your dress,” She said with a smile.

“Oh! Thank you,” The woman said, blushing, “Gosh you are so pretty. I don’t know what he was saying..” She said with a giggle. A low self esteem giggle.

“Of course I am,” Zira said simply, causing the woman to look surprised, “I know my worth,” She said sweetly as she took a sip.

“So what do you do?”

If there was one thing Zira had picked up over the years, it was small talk. She would have to chip away at this because no sweeping gesture would get this done. For now, she engaged the couple, with her objective first to give the wife the illusion that Zira wasn’t here to take her man. The other was to impress the man with the image of a self confident woman because men like him found it irresistible after a lifetime of a docile and subservient spouse.

@Apollyon

 

[Iymril]

Iymril noted the surprised look on Zira’s face when they slid the ring into place. They would never let her know where they had gotten them. In fact, Iymril felt uncomfortable with how perfectly his father’s wedding band fit on their finger. Sentimentality was rare among his kind, but even though they had killed their parents, Iymril couldn’t help but love and miss them. Family still meant something, especially on Thustra.

Despite this, they hadn’t allowed their slave to wear the other set because of some deeper meaning. If they were to be married as part of their cover, they needed to look the part and these were the only wedding sets they owned.

And if they had any say in it, this would be the last time anyone wore them.

When Zira responded to their purposefully cutting comment, Iymril glanced at her. Their ears twitched in surprise of how smoothly she transitioned from meek and mild to confident and bold. Had they been too candid with her? Was this who she really was? What if she was an Imperial Spy? Paranoia bled into their mind briefly.

No. They’d read her emotions, they’d scried her dreams while she slept. There was no corner of her mind that was safe from their gaze. She was theirs.

Their broken little Zira. Their plaything. Their companion into the depths of hell. And if need be, they’d deliver her to those gates personally.

That small smile twisted into a wry smirk that was intended to mask fabricated displeasure and the fading hints of real fear. When Iym left their “wife” to attend to the Melne’s it was with confidence that she’d have Orys in a compromising position within the hour.

They slid their EZPhone back into their pocket and traversed the gala to approach the other target for the evening. Miss Tyle Aller, a director that had openly expressed both interest and hesitation about doing business with the Korribanni King. Iymril would have to convince her to vote in favor of signing a contract that would see Arcanos’ forces bolstered.

And since that thin blood Jedi was here, they’d have to do it without the aid of the Dark Side. That shouldn’t be an issue though.

Iymril would make their way to the waiting procession to speak with Aller. As they waited, their eyes would occasionally shift to glance over at Zira and Melne’s. After a few minutes, they’d have their audience.

“Good evening Miss Aller, I am Iymril Auvryt'tar.” They began, offering an extended hand to gently clasp the woman’s own. “I represent King Arcanos’ interests on Korriban and was hoping to discuss business matters with you.” They continued.

A look of genuine surprise etched itself on the Pantoran woman’s features. She hadn’t expected an agent of Korriban to personally arrive.

“My king sends his warmest regards and couldn’t express enough interest in your product.” They continued forcing warmth into their voice.

“Um…” She replied, her brow furrowed as she glanced around. “…okay.”

There was hesitancy in her voice, Iymril could feel the spike of anxiety. They allowed a calming smile to touch the edges of their lips. “For protection of his people against the cruelties of space, of course.”

“Right, of course.” She replied trying to settle into a calmer demeanor.

@Sreeya

 

[Zira Suvan]

Zira was getting the read on the wife rather well. After all, she herself was used to being the meek and subservient role at all times. She learned that the woman was an avid fan of brand name purses. She finished her drink and glanced at the woman that was still not going away. After a moment, an idea popped into her mind, “It’s so interesting that Ezra Thorne is here,” She said, “I hear he’s on the market for a new purse for his partner. You may be just the gal to give some points,” Zira said with a giggle.

“Do you think so?!” The older woman gasped before she quickly shuffled away to become a pest to the famous Ezra Thorne. Zira didn’t miss the slight irritation in Orys’ face as he watched his wife fangirl over the Thorne boy young enough to be her grandson.

“Oh relax,” Zira chuckled, playfully touching Orys’ arm, “Surely being stuck with just me isn’t so bad.”

“O-Oh of course not,” Orys laughed, his face tinged red. Good.

“It’s so stuffy in here, what do you say to some more drinks and catching some air?” Zira asked, guiding the man towards a balcony with fresh new drinks. She finally had him alone and could really work her charms.

Meanwhile, Orys' wife was discouraged from approaching Ezra Thorne because he was surrounded by fans already. Instead, she took a detour and spotted Iymril again. She all but interjected on the conversation they were having, smiling at them and Aller, "I'm so sorry if this is a rude question, but..what exactly is the difference between Annfyn and Sephi?" She asked, her social awkwardness shining through as she looked from Iymril to Ezra Thorne, clearly believing them to be the same race.

@Apollyon

 

[Iymril]

Iymril settled a little more as Aller seemed to steadily lower her guard. The expression on her face seemed to calm, the smile on her lips less awkward and forced. Good. It would make the next parts easier.

“Due to the sensitive na-”

“I'm so sorry if this is a rude question, but..what exactly is the difference between Annfyn and Sephi?”

What was this hag of a woman doing here? Why had she dared intrude on their conversation? Where the fuck was Zira?

Questions that rolled through their mind without breaking the false smile on Iym’s lips. Instead, they clasped the champagne flute lightly with their other hand. “Miss Aller, it seems my good friend Mrs. Melne requires…specialized insights. If I cannot find you again this evening, could I reach you at your office?” They asked their target, the final vote they needed to secure expendable soldiers for Arcanos’ wars.

Aller nodded her consent. She was honestly glad to not have to deal with this situation. Instead, the woman only had countless more social interactions to address before returning home to her cat and soaps. The two things she desperately missed.

As they turned at the waist, they caught Zira leading Mr. Melne out onto the balcony. They realized that they had to keep Mrs. Melne busy while Zira worked her magic. Otherwise, Orys’ kind and gentle wife could accidentally stumble into their tryst. That was the last thing they needed. Iym allowed for their thin lipped smile to break, showing perfectly straight and white teeth. They couldn’t believe they had to actually answer this speciesist ass question.

“Is there a particular reason you were asking?” They asked feigning interest and offering an arm to her. “Well the greatest difference between our two races is how we express emotion.” Iymril explained once Mrs. Melne had taken their arm. They would guide her away from Zira and Orys, walking away from the outside balcony and deeper into the room. “We both largely use subtle movements of our ears to convey how we are feeling.” They continued as they wiggled their ears for emphasis. “However, Anfynn also express emotions through facial expressions, like I do. We can build genuine bonds with those we care for.” Iym explained. Inwardly they screamed at having to talk so positively about a genetically defective and emotionally unstable species, like the Anfynn. “Our cousins the Sephi however…they are cold, distant, and detached.” They continued. “They believe it makes them superior, but a life without emotion and wonder sounds…bleak. Doesn’t it?”

That last question made them want to wretch. Of course emotional control made Sephi superior to Anfynn! Iymril knew that they would need a deep cleanse after this conversation. A hot shower with three rounds of sanitizer and a scrub pad, minimum.

The entire time Iymril spoke, Mrs. Melne gazed up at them with a completely entranced look. She gawked up at them like she had never been the sole attention of anyone. As the pair continued off, she speechlessly regarded them with a glimmer of something that made Iym truly uncomfortable.

Desire.

This was going to be a long night.

@Sreeya

 

[Zira Suvan]

By now, Zira was doing a number of fake giggles, “Careful, Orys,” She was on first name basis, “Or I might have to tie you up and tell you you’re being a bad boy,” She said with a chuckle, her tail coming up behind him almost like a whip for a light tap.

The gesture drew out a giggle from the man, his face turning bright red, “Oh gods..you are so..naughty and bold,” He said with a glint in his eye, “You must lead such an exciting life.”

“It has its moments,” Zira said, sipping from her drink, “But it can be very lonely. Iymril is always away and we have a marriage on paper and nothing else as you can tell,” She said wistfully. It was very difficult to speak her Master’s name, but she had to in order to sell the wife angle.

“But enough about me, I just simply don’t believe you have such a comic book collection,” Zira said with a chuckle. No one had ever asked Orys about his nerdy collectibles but Zira pretended to be hooked, “I must see it for myself. This party will go on for hours, I’m sure our absence will not be noticed.”

Orys pondered for a moment, chewing his lip, “Well all right then. Parties like these are so stuffy anyway..I'll be back in time to take Millie's drunk self home,” He said, genuinely giddy about sharing his collection. Within moments, the two left the balcony and made for a speeder that would take them to Orys’ home just a few miles away.

Meanwhile, Mrs. Melne twirled her hair and was intently listening to everything Iymril had to say, “Oh I was only asking because you seem so interesting!” She quipped, “And gosh..to think you find me more beautiful than your wife. I’m not going to forget that compliment anytime soon. I feel like a million credits because you think so,” She giggled, blushing furiously, “For it to come from someone that looks like you,” She chuckled, “Oops, I have been drinking way too much. Sorry for my candidness.”

@Apollyon

 

[Iymril]

Iymril’s face didn’t shift from that smile. They listened to her stream of compliments. They perceived an opportunity. Unfortunately for Mrs. Melne, Iym’s smile became genuine.

“No don’t apologize, never apologize for anything you desire.” They told her. “Of course I think you’re more beautiful than my wife. All she does she undermine me.” They whispered. “I was forced to marry her as a political arrangement, ours is a loveless arrangement.” They explained, a hint of sadness echoed behind their words. “But my kind appreciate true beauty and Mrs. Melne, you are truly beautiful.”

At those honied words, Iymril reached up and lightly caressed the side of Mrs. Melne’s face. They pushed loneliness and heartbreak into their eyes. Iym needed her to believe they longed for something more for a brief moment.

Then as if snapping from a trance, they retracted their hand suddenly. Iymril cleared their throat and looked away from the diminutive woman. They intended to seem ashamed of what they had done.

“I shouldn’t have I’m sor-”

“No, never apologize for anything you desire.” Mellie interrupted, her face flush from getting the attention she craved.

Iymril glanced around trying to sell the appearance of someone about to suggest something…scandalous. But Mellie spoke before a question could even escape Iymril’s lips.

“Would you like to walk with me through the garden maze?” She asked sheepishly. “I’d bet you look even more handsome under the night sky.” Her words echoed the beginnings of shedding her meek shyness to explore something new. “I heard at the center there is a grand fountain. It sounds so romantic, I wanted to see it earlier but my husband…” Her voice trailed off, she hoped Iymril would catch the hint.

“Mrs. Mel-”

“Millie, call me Millie.” She interrupted once more.

“Millie.” Iymril stated affectionately. “An evening by the fountain with you sounds perfect.”

Within moments Millie had slid her arm in theirs. She walked alongside the handsome Anfynn, her heart racing as she wondered if this was all a dream. A wonderful, beautiful dream that she never wanted to wake from.

And so they walked away from the gala and until the night. They walked arm in arm towards the garden beneath the moon lit sky. They disappeared into the darkness of that maze, her eyes drinking in the handsome features of Iymril’s face. She felt like a schoolgirl again, she was so excited to be with them.

Alone, with Iymril.

@Sreeya

 

[Zira Suvan]

Orys Melne was a far kinder man than Zira predicted. However, she had been in this business long enough to be numb to any sympathy or moral dilemma. She was here to do a job and she would see it through to ensure her own survival. The older man had shown the tiefling his entire collection including his secret cosplay costumes.

“Put it on,” Zira said with a sultry tone, “I would love to see you all dressed up as the Divine Paladin of justice,” She said, “Perhaps I will be a lich witch coming to devour all you know!” She said, making her voice raspy and villainy. Orys giggled in response and eagerly wandered over to put his costume on. Zira sighed while left alone for a moment, sipping from the wine he gave her in the house. She could only imagine Iymril reviewing all of this footage, the thought almost making her choke on the wine from laughing.

And there he was - Orys the Paladin dressed in his costume armor that he made himself. In truth, it was rather impressive. He waved around his broadsword, uttering some lines. Zira played her part, unleashing some attacks on his pretend allies and then animating dead in a brutal display. Orys loved that and fought against his pretend zombie companions.

At the end, he finally raised his blade for a smite and Zira was backed against a counter, gasping, “Nooo!” She called out pitifully, “That white magic burns! Stay back!” She shouted dramatically. Orys gave a speech and walked towards her.

“It’s over, witch!” He called out to her, “Your undead ways will no longer tarnish these lands!”

“Oh but I have one more trick in my arsenal!” Zira the Lich queen responded, using her tail to coil around Orys to tug him close. She gave the Paladin a smile, “The kiss of death,” She said simply as she closed the distance to meet his lips. Clearly this caught Orys off guard because he lowered his fake sword.

“O-Oh monstrous lich temptress…..” Orys whispered as he briefly broke from the kiss, but he dove right back for another, his hands urgently tugging away at Zira’s clothing. Before long he attempted to lift her up into the counter as a sexy gesture, but he almost pulled a muscle so she remained standing while he engaged with her, “This..is still in character of course..mmm,” He mumbled as her top fell away.

“Of course..I have cast charm person on you..” Zira said simply with a detached tone, her manicured fingers rifling through his hair. She only hoped this was enough dirt on him because the tiefling was already tired.

@Apollyon

 

[Iymril]

“Aren’t the stars so beautiful tonight?” Millie asked as the pair walked through the hedge maze. “They always seem so bright when there is a new moon.” She continued, a small sheepish smile cresting her lips as she gazed up at them.

Her question seemed to draw the handsome Anfynn from their thoughts. She wondered what they had been thinking so intently on. Since leaving the party, their smile had faded and their mood seemed more…serious. The tall and lean man no longer had their arm intertwined with here. Millie was worried that maybe they were feeling guilty over a romantic walk and the potential infidelity therein. She gently reached over and touched their hand.

“We don’t have to do this.” She whispered, hoping beyond hope they’d reassure her. “We can just go back to the gala and act like nothing happened.”

Those words seemed to draw Iymril’s attention back to her. A faint smile touched their lips, an odd smile that didn’t quite reach their eyes. It almost disturbed her, it made her gut squirm and her instincts scream for her to run. But she silenced all of those things when the beautiful Anfynn took her hand in theirs.

“I wouldn’t dream of going back there before we have our time together.” They whispered in reply.

For the next fifteen minutes, Millie told Iymril about her children and grandchildren. She told them about how she’d met her husband. How they weren’t always like this, once upon a time they’d been madly in love. But somehow they’d just drifted apart.

“I don’t want to hurt him, I just want to feel wanted again.” She confessed as they arrived at fountain.

When Millie pulled her eyes from Iymril it was to look at the sight before her. It was so beautiful. Her grip on Iymril’s hand tightened for a brief moment in excitement. She tugged them towards the fountain, wanting to see the stars reflected in the surface of the water.

“Isn’t it so beautiful?” She asked.

As the question left her smiling lips, the faint sound of beautiful orchestral music wafted from the manor. She swayed slightly to the music and giggled slightly. Then she heard Iymril’s steady gait as they walked up behind her. She opened her eyes to look at their reflection in the waters.

Her heart stopped.

There gazing down in the water was Iymril’s reflection but gone was their charming smile. Instead, they wore a stoney and uncaring expression. Gone was the passionate light in their eyes. Gone was the beautiful shades of gemstone red that danced in their irises. Instead what gazed at her was a cruel predatory golden gaze.

Surely this is my mind playing tricks on me?

She went to turn to look back at Iymril, hoping it would dispel whatever was ahold of her. Hoping to see their smiling face. Hoping to taste their lips pressed to hers. Hoping this was just a single bad part of an otherwise perfect night.

But Mellie couldn’t turn around. Something had a tight grip around her ankles. When she looked down the sight caused her to experience nothing but shock and horror. The ground she was standing on ran like a liquid and she was sinking into it. Her shoes and ankles had already vanished beneath the murk.

Tears welled on her eyes as fear began to overwhelm her. She didn’t understand what was happening or why. Then the pain of dirt and gravel rubbing against bare skin as she sank down to her calves.

“Iymril, help me.” She whispered, her voice cracking as tears welled in her eyes. “I don’t know what’s going on.” She told them.

“I do.” Came the whispered reply. “I’m killing you.”

——————

How Mellie had begged for mercy. How she had screamed for help. When she was half buried in the partially liquified earth she’d tried to pull herself free. But it was all in vain.

No mercy would be given for Iymril had none to give. No help was coming, for no one would hear her cries over the music that played. And no matter how she struggled, there was no escaping her fate. Death had come for Mellie Melne, death in the slowest and cruelest of forms.

Iymril stood and watched as her face disappeared beneath the soil. They plucked their pocket square from their jacket pocket and reached down, gingerly plucking her wedding set from her finger. They would linger there, using Mellie’s fear and pain as a beacon to let them sink her further into the earth. They drank in all that suffering and terror, they savored it until the moment it blinked out of existence.

And so passed Mellie Melne, wife, mother, and grandmother. Gone and never to be found.

Why? For the sins of her husband. He’d dared to take Iymril’s plaything from them. He thought that he could steal from them? Even though Iymril had ordered this to happen, there couldn’t be no response. This was it.

Iymril had taken Orys’ plaything from him and that caused a ripple of pleasure to roll through the Sephi.

The ground hardened once more and Iymril left the hedge maze. They returned to the gala and mingled with the guests. They’d wait for Zira to return to them, their mood having brightened significantly. They were genuinely happy.

@Sreeya

 

[Zira Suvan]

Zira and Orys were on their way back to the party. Orys was in shambles on the way back, frightened at the prospect about facing his wife or confessing.

“Listen, Orys, it was all part of the game we played,” Zira rationalized, “It was just in character. I'm not sure why it needs to be brought up at all,” She fixed up her clothing, letting her hair fall over a spot on her shoulder where Orys left an unsightly mark. Zira was not permitted to say no, so he had what he desired from her and she dissociated as usual. Despite Iymril giving her the avenue of choice, she couldn’t comprehend such a thing. When a target client wanted sex, they got it.

They arrived at the party and Zira was confident the footage collected was more than enough to bury Orys. He mumbled feebly about finding his wife and wandered off to do just that and she was left alone to go her own way. Before facing her master again, Zira took a moment to help herself to another drink. There were many tastes she wanted to wash out of her mouth and a nice, hot bath if Iymril permitted it.

She found the Sephi after a while, having been around them enough to spot the subtle signs of distress. Was Iymril displeased with her? She approached them cautiously in silence, surveying their body language before speaking, “I have done as asked, my lord,” Zira said quietly so only they could hear. She wanted nothing more than to leave this place, but she never had such choices. She prepared to linger for several more hours posing as Iymril’s wife. Everyone around was excessively drunk, dancing and being loud. She noticed Ezra Thorne had departed the party and wasn’t surprised in the least.

Zira leaned against a wall and sipped from her drink, awaiting any new commands from her master.

@Apollyon

 

[Iymril]

As with Orys, clarity after the rush fades brings regret. Not that Iymril regretted killing that mewling woman. No, she was a forgettable insect. Something that existed to live a feeble life unworthy of note and then die. All they’d done was hasten that death by a few decades at most.

Instead, they realized the jeopardy they’d placed their own plan in. They’d been so careful to set up this blackmail and now it could come crashing down because of their own impulsive actions. And that made them disgusted with themself.

As they mingled with other meaningless creatures, their mind worked overtime to ensure Melne wouldn’t be found. To cover their tracks. Their ears quivered and twitched uncontrollably as they slowly began to develop a plan. A process that was cut short by Zira’s voice. It caused them to pause and breathe.

“Good.” They told her at last. “We’re leaving.” Iymril stated plainly, their ears still spasming. “I’ll hail us a cab.” They said before offering Zira their arm. “Let’s go home.” Confidence and calmness returned to their presence.

They didn’t need to overthink, no one would find her body. How could they? Mrs. Melne would likely be believed to have had a tragic accident or disappeared. Her body never to be found.

Satisfaction rolled over them as they led Zira towards the awaiting line of cabs. They intended to select one to ferry them back to the ship to go home. They opened the door for Zira to step into the cab before a feminine called out to them. Iymril looked up to see Miss Aller walking towards them, waving to them, and a strange look on her face.

“I’m sorry Mr. Auvryt'tar, I know you and your lovely wife are trying to leave but Mrs. Melne is missing.” She started.

Iymril closed the door to the cab as she spoke. Muffling whatever was said next.

“You were the last o-”

“You saw Mrs. Melne walk away from me and go to refresh her drink. That was the last you saw of her.” Iymril stated calmly, the Dark Side pushing a spike into her mind through their voice alone. “Also, our conversation about the sale of war droids to Korriban was enlightening. The profit margins are acceptable enough for you to vote in favor.” They concluded before dropping the hold they had on the woman.

Miss Aller seemed dazed for a moment before she blinked a few times and slowly nodded her head.

“Of course how could I forget that she left you to go refill her drink?” She asked aloud. “And I am pleased with your projections Mr. Auryt’tar, Arakyd looks forward to continued business with you and King Arcanos.” She continued. “Have a wonderful rest of your night and tell your wife I adore her dress.” She concluded before walking off and back to the party.

“Of course.” Iymril replied with a forced smile before opening the door to the speeder and sliding in alongside Zira.

Iymril would roll the convertible top back to allow them to sit comfortably. Then they’d glance to Zira.

“She said she likes your dress.”

@Sreeya

 

[Zira Suvan]

Zira didn’t miss the way Iymril seemingly manipulated the woman’s mind. It made her wonder why they even kept a slave around. Iymril could simply pull that trick on anyone - Orys included, right? And she didn’t even dare to wonder what the woman was on about with Iymril and Mrs. Melne. The meek woman was nowhere to be seen by the time Zira returned with Orys. Perhaps Iymril simply derived pleasure from having Zira fuck anyone and anything they commanded. It was a power trip many of her former masters had and subjected her to entire parties to let everyone have a turn. She was numb and desensitized to all of it.

“The compliments go to you,” Zira said in response to Iymril’s comment, “It is your dress, after all,” She said simply. The tiefling had nothing more to say, first sliding off the expensive rings to return to Iymril along with the necklace that captured the footage. The sooner she gave those items back, the more relieved she felt at not risking losing such things.

She wasn’t surprised that they were simply heading back to the ship instead of Iymril entertaining all those promises of a reward at a job well done. Zira gazed out of the window of the speeder, watching the city pass them by and daring to briefly ponder an existence where she could simply live as boldly as the Lich Queen she pretended to be. To always be able to speak her mind, to always take whatever she desired. To even have such things as desire of her own - she could hardly comprehend even that.

Her mind was a million miles away, far from the speeder, far away from Iymril, far away from the stench of Orys still on her body, far from this prison she could never escape because she didn’t know how to survive if she did.

@Apollyon

 

[Iymril]

Iymril glanced to Zira when she replied. The dress and several others had been made for her. But they didn’t bristle at her comment, in truth they hardly cared. As she slowly handed the jewelry back to them, Iymril barely noticed. Their mind too was countless light years away from where they sat. It was focused on these plans and ensuring Arcanos’ favor was earned. That was their pathway to success for now.

It wasn’t until Zira handed them the necklace that they glanced it it. Their eyes lingered on the object for some time. Then they would quietly regard her as she stared out the window.

They didn’t forget their promise of some fancy dinner. They also had no intentions of taking her to eat at some place like that much less with her smelling of old man and sex. No, she’d receive something much simpler.

When they arrived at the ship, Iymril slid the jewelry into their suit pants pocket and stepped out of the speeder. They’d walk around and open Zira’s door for her before taking her hand to help her from the speeder.

Iymril would silently walk alongside her and enter the ship. Only then would they turn to look at her.

“You will go to the captain’s quarters and draw a hot bath.” They instructed. “You will lay in it and relax.” They continued. “Afterwards, you will refresh yourself and come to the couch.” Their gaze met hers, Iymril knew she was likely expecting them to demand sex. “You will pick a movie for us to watch, whatever you desire to see. That is what we will watch together.” They told her. “You performed admirably tonight and deserve rest. Now leave me.” With that they shooed her from their presence.

Iymril had several questions to ask but for now, they’d give her the time she needed to decompress. Instead, they gathered a large sketch pad, several charcoal pencils, and a few erasers. They didn’t actually care what she wanted to watch. None of that mattered to them. Instead, they would draw what came to mind while she had the evening to herself. Iymril would still have their answers but directly asking them wouldn’t cut it.

They would learn who their slave actually was. It would just take some time and manipulation to get there.

@Sreeya