Ask Korriban Home Is Where The Heart Is

[Trodai Narat-iv-Adas]

As Trodai explained and Azar listened, he wasn't sure what the other man was thinking. Only knowing that he was listening as he looked out to the setting sun. The massage was helping with them both relax as he continued to expose his difficult history. Why he had to leave Korriban and why he came back. Making himself vulnerable. Trodai would tell it as it was, he had no need or desire to lie.

It was at the apex of his words that he saw Azar turn. As the final words came out, and then their eyes met. Trodai at first wasn't sure what to say...it was true he was. His feelings told him as much, his instincts screaming out to say it. But the words themselves at first refused to admit it. Until after looking, he could not lie. Seeing into the ambers of Azar. Into his eyes. It was not his way, not to those he cared for or considered more. No matter the consequences it was the truth.

He spoke equally quietly.

"Azar I..." he hesitated at first before coming out with it. He could not deny what he felt "I wasn't sure at first, given everything we discussed. But now I am." Trodai continued "Azar, after spending so much time with you, getting to know the real you. The jokes, laughing and everything inbetween. The more I got to know you, the greater my feelings have grown."

He let the words sink in as he considered everything, and what he felt "Even in our more serious moments like now. I cannot deny what I feel. And continue to feel. The heart does as it does. Likes who it likes. Loves who...it loves." he said , solemnly, calmly.

"And so, yes I admit...I am in love with you. Truthfully. But I know it is not without some complications. Or trials. But I desire you for who you are. All of you, no matter how difficult you can be. Or it will be. I accept whatever route you may choose to take from here. But know, I would die for you regardless. You are a fire that has spread and taken hold. I just hope in some way you feel for me as much as I do of you."

He gave a audible sigh, relieved at having said it. After confirming to himself what he felt was real. After knowing Azar, for the real Azar.

Trodai slowly inquired, after time was given to process it, quietly still "So...what is to happen now."

THEME

@Sreeya

 

[Darth Arcanos]

Azar knew the answer even before Trodai said it. He remained silent, not moving away, and yet not drawing closer. He felt a pang in his chest, one he hadn’t expected. The Pureblood silently studied the other man, knowing full well that Trodai would lay down his life for Azar. Trodai was a man of passion, loyalty and determination. He had many qualities that made him an incredible partner. Azar exhaled softly, looking away.

“I am no longer with Karys,” He said quietly, feeling that dagger in his chest even voicing the words aloud, “But he still holds my heart… perhaps forever..” Azar mused bitterly, thinking through a lifetime of punishment. Like Trodai said, the heart loved who it loved. He leaned against Trodai, feeling the warmth of his bare skin against his own. It was a tender gesture despite both being nude and intimately close.

“I have grown to care for you, Trodai.. Far more than I ever expected,” He said with a sheepish smile, “Perhaps it shatters the image you have of me in your mind as Sith’ari and a god that’s above simple human emotions. Alas, I feel them..and I do feel them for you,” Azar traced his hand along Trodai’s jawline, “I don’t…wish to change anything. I still want to spend all this time with you and understand you.”

He closed his eyes and tightly held Trodai, sinking against him, “You make me feel so cherished and desired. I only wish I could make you feel the same..”

@Akheron

 

[Trodai Narat-iv-Adas]

Trodai waited for what seemed an age, his heart aching to hear the answer. Until at last Azar spoke, and when he did he understood, although not without a little jealousy as was to be expected but he held no ill will. As he explained that Karys was no longer with him and that he still held his heart, Trodai somehow knew that might end up the case. For it was with his long dead lover for a long time. Such a hold was not easily broken or lost.

As he finished the explanation, Trodai spoke "I see and I understand. The heart cannot be so easily cast aside or broken. It is not so easy as glass to shatter or break. It is as strong as obsidian. And I have no desire to break yours or his."

As Azar leaned against him, Trodai couldn't help but flutter a little. The feelings only intensifying by the slightest touches. And with restraint, with calm and understanding he continued to listen, even when he gave a sheepish smile. He returned one of his own. "I have for you too." he continued to smile, closing his eyes briefly as Azar traced his hand "That you have such emotions does not shatter the image, it only improves it. And if you wish nothing to change, that only pleases me."

He continued "I also want nothing more than to spend time with you, as much as I can spare. And also to understand you just as you desire to understand me. As we have been." As Azar closed his eyes and held Trodai against him. He could feel his heart thumping, his pulse racing. His emotions and feelings wanting this moment and more like it.

He listened as Azar explained how he felt cherished and desired...and how he wanted Trodai to feel the same way.

How little he knew. He already did.

As Azar finished, Trodai couldn't resist. He needed to not just use words alone. He would show him how he already made him feel that way. He leaned closer, hoping Azar would look up into his eyes as he spoke "You don't need to wish it Azar, you already do make me feel the same way. Here, in this moment, under the sky. Let me show you how you make me feel, and how cherished you make me feel." Instead of Azar, this time Trodai moved towards Azar, if he allowed it, he would lean, slowly at first into a intimate, passionate kiss. Taking charge where before he hadn't.

He had put his feelings aside for long enough. He wanted this moment and hoped Azar desired and wanted him too.

THEME

@Sreeya

 

[Darth Arcanos]

Azar was surprised when Trodai began to tell him that he already felt cherished. He began to wonder about the depths of his own feelings towards the other man. Before he could assess any further, he saw that look in Trodai’s eye, and it was different from anything he had seen before. Azar didn’t stop him as he leaned in, closing his eyes to meet that kiss that became far more passionate. He knew things would be entirely different this time, and it sent a new rush through him.

The Kissai surrendered himself to Trodai, letting the other man completely take charge and lead in that hot spring. There was passion, tenderness, a whole new level of confidence from Trodai that Azar found tantalizing. The Massassi knew exactly what he was doing, having remembered every detail about Azar and weaving it with love to send Azar to entirely new heights of passion.

He gazed upon that sunset, he looked back at the way the golden hues of the setting sun accented Trodai’s physique and that handsome face Azar couldn’t look away from. He didn’t hold back on vocally expressing his ecstasy in all the journeys Trodai took him through while they were in such a private place. It was as if they were making love for the first time despite their multiple moments of intimacy over the past few days.

The sun was long gone by the time they were done, brilliant stars dotting the skies. It was clearer out here than any of the ecumenopolis planets he had been on since. He could get lost in that vibrant sky, distant galaxies clearly visible. Azar was still in Trodai’s arms, both of them in the water and content. He even ventured to go a bit deeper into the water, finding courage while he was in the other man’s arms. He knew Trodai wouldn’t let anything happen to him.

“Is this all a ploy to make me forget why I came here?” Azar asked with a tired, lazy smile as he traced feathery soft kisses along Trodai’s neck, "Because that was incredible.." Tomorrow was the day they would have to fight Ragnos and his tribe, “If all goes well and I regain my name, I must return to Dreshdae,” He said quietly, drawing back to gaze into Trodai’s eyes, “You will hold this city.”

@Akheron

 

[Trodai Narat-iv-Adas]

As Trodai leaned in and Azar closed his eyes, surrendering. The Massassi was aflame with passion, tenderness, lust, desire, his feelings becoming known. As he equally closed his eyes when their lips met. Trodai showed Azar how he made him feel, how his heart had ached. And that he was the piece he had been missing for so long. He saw and smiled as both enjoyed every moment.

As the sun was setting, Trodai showed his affection, as both locked eyes. As Trodai looked into the fire he could not run from, that he felt so much for. In this moment, in tasting, feeling and experiencing all the emotions, Trodai knew this was where he wanted to be. That whatever the future held, he would always be there for Azar. For as long as he was breathing, and if Azar should fall he would seek a way to bring him back. There would be no barrier he would not cross, no divide or price he wouldn't pay.

Although he wouldn't hold Azar heart, at least not entirely, he would always hold his.

He felt as reborn, as their level of intimacy hit new heights, as they both became vocal in their expressing of each other. Trodai allowed his great passion and love to flow through, wielding the Magick in ways he hadn't thought before, as the mystical, physical and emotional all become one. They continued for seemed like hours and Azar seemed to venture deeper in the water. Trodai held firm, making sure he was secure as they moved around until they eventually went back to the side.

As his Sith'ari, the one whom he loved looked into his eyes, tired and smiling. Kissing his neck, Trodai listened and laughed when Azar asked if it was all a ploy to get him there alone. "Not at all, you are truly needed. Although I can't say I didn't like what has happened along the way." he smiled as Azar mentioned how much he enjoyed it all "I feel the same. I will never forget this moment or you. If you were taken I would try to cross the great divide and into the very pits of Chaos itself to find you."

Every word was true. As Azar spoke of his plans after regaining his name, Trodai understood. And he nodded accepting the outcome, even as he spoke "I understand Azar. Business first as always, I will do my best to ensure it is held. You have my word on that. Although, I hope you don't go forgetting me while in Dreshdae." he joked "I will be always thinking about you, no matter where I am. Or what I am doing." He spoke tenderly. "Always."

@Sreeya

 

[Darth Arcanos]

Azar felt emotions brimming just beneath the surface at Trodai’s words and his commitment. He knew the Massassi meant every word, every promise. He knew Trodai would go to the ends of the galaxy for him. Azar could only stare at the man, keeping his emotions in check. He had to. He couldn’t love another. He dared not allow it. Not when he left himself so vulnerable anytime he did so. He was already paying for loving Karys, he couldn’t love two men at once and have it completely destroy him. And yet Trodai was testing his limits, his devotion and unwavering spirit digging deep into the depths of Azar’s chest.

“I can never forget you, Trodai,” Azar said, his arms wrapped around Trodai’s neck, “We could be a galaxy apart and I can’t forget you,” He gazed into his eyes for a long moment before smiling. He drew back and undid one of his own earrings, removing one of Trodai’s as well. He switched their earrings, leaving them wearing each other’s and with noticeably mismatched earrings. Azar gave him a playful smile, “Now we’re bound to remember each other whenever we look in the mirror,” He said before chuckling at his own silly idea. And yet, he truly wanted to keep something of Trodai’s with him.

“Will you carry me back to the palace?” He asked quietly, knowing it was a silly request, “I don’t want you to stop holding me,” Azar whispered before leaning in to kiss him again.

—​

It had taken every fiber of Azar’s being not to invite Trodai to finally share the bed with him overnight. He had made a promise to himself that it was a level of intimacy only for his love. He refused to fall asleep with anyone else. And yet he never had such a difficult time parting ways and closing the door as he did the night prior.

What was Azar holding onto so desperately? He had separated from Karys. Why couldn’t he let Trodai in? He buried his face in his hands, flooded with thoughts of waking up in Trodai’s arms and listening to his adorable ramblings before Azar was even fully conscious. He smiled to himself, exhaling as he pushed the thoughts aside, climbing out of bed to freshen up.

Today was the day to stage the attack. All the pieces were in place and his poisons were ready to act as soon as Ragnos and his men entered the corridors below. Azar was dressed not like a king, but in something more discreet. He would blend in and be right there in the field to work his sorcery. His lithe form could easily slip in between crowds and pass for any situation.

“Are the soldiers prepared?” He asked Trodai once he came across the other man. His tone was stern and serious, his persona shifting right back into a professional setting. Shortly after the corridor trap, Ur had to strike while the iron was hot. That meant a full scale invasion force composed of Massassi spearmen and lanvaroks, along with archers and Kissai forces to augment.

“Send in some scouts to report on their camp,” Azar said.

@Akheron

 

[Trodai Narat-iv-Adas]

Trodai looked at Azar as he stared back. Looking into the other man's eyes, into the fire within he couldn't help but give a little peck to the top of the head. He could see the Azar mind, he was whirring again, thinking. So he simply held him until at last Azar spoke and Trodai listened to every word. Smiling back as he mentioned that he would never forget Trodai. Not even a galaxy or more apart. This brought him great joy and happiness.

As Azar smiled, he smiled back again, allowing him to remove a year ring and one of his own so they could switch them. Trodai didn't mind the gesture at all. It was an old custom, to switch a ear ring to remember someone they considered very close. Trodai also chuckled as he spoke "Or I forget you. I'll never take it out." He said as he smiled before the two vacated the water and dressed.

Hearing Azar request to be carried, he nodded solemly. He didn't find the request silly, he wanted to carry him back. He knew the journey up and the activities had probably made him sleepy. And so he lifted him up, dropping him in a bridal carry all the way back, allowing Azar to kiss him.

"It would be my pleasure." He said. And took him back the way they came. Along the way he gave a few kisses himself as they descended. Allowing Azar to dose in his arms.

When they got back to the palace, he laid Azar gently before saying good night. Tomorrow would be a busy day, he needed to be fresh and ready for battle. They both did.

----------

Trodai spent half the night thinking about Azar and all they spoken of. And how he had enjoyed every moment with him. He wondered what the future might hold. Whatever it was he would accept it, accept Azar as he was. Even if he was not the primary, he would be happy. For he loved Azar and would do whatever was asked.

After finally getting some sleep, Trodai awoke quite early as was his way. He was up long before Azar. While few were around, I jogged and sprinted around the palace, and performed a few martial Kate's among the gardens while the birds still made morning noise. Returning after a hour, he freshened up, and prepared himself for the hard work ahead. It was time for Sith inside of him to take control for now.

Business first as always as he had told Azar.

As Azar soon appeared, Trodai was already waiting and in his Sith Armour, he would show the enemy their deepest fears. That they would face not just an Adas but also a Sith. Death and endless turmoil would be his answer to their defiance, for the lucky ones at least. Those few who might survive would suffer fates worse than death. Handed over to the Sith for experiments or made Grotthu.

As Azar spoke, he noted the serious, professional tone and he was likewise as professional. He knew what was at stake and would not allow himself to fail if he could help it. Not in front of Azar as Trodai and not as a Sith. Listening carefully he understood and replied "They are. They await and are ready to strike if the word is given. I had someone get in position to signal when the enemy was near the city and enter the trap."

He continued to listen and noddwd, giving a bow as he spoke to one of the others next to him.

"Tell the commander to send in the scouts. Do not fail."

The large Massassi bowed to them both before departing, heading towards the lower courtyard where some of the men waited. The others were in position. He knew the price of failure ad well as any of the army.

"Commander Asmenys. Lord Trodai, requests use of some of the scouts to report from the enemy camp."

The Commander looked up in the Massassi. His eyes glaring seemingly inside, a stern yet staunch military man, he had long been a friend to the Adas House through Trodai. The two had served together during the Massassi Akoge, had known each other years. It was only recently the two had reconnected. He spoke his voice deep "I see. Send them immediately, there is not a moment we can waste. Do not fail...or I'll flay the scouts myself."

Not long after several scouts, travelling light made their way out of the city. Using their knowledge of survival, and tracking they soon found the enemy encampment with many guarding the ramparts. They snuck closer hoping to get a better look and listen.

Spoiler

OOC: Actions Taken - Adas Army Scouts enter enemy camp undetected.

Roll D20: 11

The scouts successfully managed to infiltrate the camp, their expert skills at tracking, covert operations and survival coming to the fore as they traversed and listened to one of the tents. Inside a conversation was going on between the leadership. They had apparently found the body and fallen for the trap. They planned to strike within a few hours time using the catacombs and a diversion as they had previously. Masking themselves with the sand storms.

Yet this time would be different. The Adas and the city were prepared and ready. The scouts soon returned with the information, a scout reporting to the Commander who in turn sent the messenger to the two Sith.

Trodai faced him, stock and stern "Report. What are the enemy up too? How far are they?"

"They are north-east not far from here. They have fallen for the bait and are making their way within a few hours, they stopped for supplies. And plan to use the catacombs and a diversion as before. Using the sand storms cover."

Trodai considered things for a moment, but he waited to hear what Azar might say first. He valued his insight into such matters...It was another reason he had requested him. The man was brilliant in more ways than one.

@Sreeya

 

[Darth Arcanos]

Azar nodded when reports came in about the people falling for the bait. Things were progressing as planned, “Remember to have extra guards stationed along the ramparts so they are compelled to use the catacombs.”

He moved ahead to position himself with the modified smoke bombs. Azar cautioned anyone else against entering, putting on a mask that would keep the toxins out. He turned to Trodai, whispering quietly, “Block off their exits from the other side. Let only one or two pass. We will trap the rest,” There had to be some survivors that headed back to their encampment. Azar’s plan had several devious factors for an aftermath.

Before long, arrows began to fly as the guards on the ramparts were engaged. Azar wasn’t fazed, “It’s a diversion,” He commed to Trodai, recognizing the tactic as one he would have used himself, “Hold the line by the catacomb exits.”

Within moments, a strike team charged through the catacomb corridors. Azar waited patiently, watching them barge in from a distance with Force Sight. He could spot what looked like their leader charging ahead, heroic and carrying himself with all the confidence in the world. Azar smirked behind the mask.

Without warning, he hurled the smoke bombs into the corridor. Green smoke began to fill the hall at once, Azar stepped back to observe from a distance. The effects wouldn’t be immediate, as everyone looked confused but alarmed. As expected, they began to quickly charge out towards the various exit points, finding them all blocked.

However, when they realized the green gas was harmless, they stopped struggling. They tried to burst through the door near Azar. The entire time, the Pureblood stood there calmly watching. It happened slowly, subtly at first. One of the men began to twitch, his nostrils flaring as if an animal sniffing. His pupils dilated and he began to foam at the mouth. Within a moment, he snapped and attacked his fellow soldier, clawing and biting hard enough to draw blood and tear into flesh.

One by one, the others began to do the same. If Trodai managed to observe from the other side, he would perhaps recognize it as the effects of the same potion that turned him into a cat, but far more serious, controlled and brutal. The soldiers began to act like ravenous beasts, tearing one another apart and turning the corridor into a blood bath.

“Let Ragnos and another witness escape,” Azar said calmly through the comlink to Trodai as total chaos ensued. The Pureblood smiled cruelly behind the mask, knowing that both of the survivors were also going to turn and start destroying the camp. They couldn’t understand or fathom what was happening and would blame it on the old gods.

@Akheron

 

[Trodai Narat-iv-Adas]

Trodai listened carefully as the report was read out and news came in of the enemy falling for the bait. It was to be expected, the younger members of the tribe didn't tend to think much. As Azar nodded apparently pleased with the progress being made, Trodai couldn't help but smile a little under the mask he wore. It looked like those in the army were competent afterall and listened one him during some of his visits.

When Azar spoke, he was quick to listen, not missing a beat. He was in his element. This was the battlefield, this was where he was the hunter. Come to claim the souls of the damned. Here he was Sith. A nightmare to all who were prey before his lightsaber and sword. Trodai nodded with a slight bow as Azar gave further instructions "It will be done." He said , facing another guard and issuing the instructions. The guard ran off and the order was given, soon and the ramparts to the city were doubled with a strong presence of men and women lining the walls. All ready to give their all if it came to it.

Trodai initially followed Azar, before he spoke again. And with another instruction, he was off. Heading to block off the exits from the other side as he was asked. He would not let them defile the city or touch Azar. He would bathe in their blood before ever allowing it. As the arrows flew and Trodai overheard screams from the dying even from where he was, felt their lives snuff out in the Force. He felt invigorated.

Hearing the command, Trodai positioned to a better spot and held firm, mentioning those with him to do the same once the arrows and the barrage of lanvaroks became too much. Forcing the enemy to the catacombs as anticipated. There was now was no exit once they entered. The other end sealed. Trodai made sure to have additional guards in the catacombs to corral and force the rabble where they wanted them. With his mask on, Trodai observed the smoke bombs. Curious to see the effects of the plague he had seen Azar working so passionately upon.

And soon mayhem ensued. He laughed as they attempted to escape only to be stabbed or impaled and forced back in as the door shut tight. Some lost arms, others a leg. Through a hole, Trodai observed, even as he held the door with the others, brute strength against strength. He also watched calmly. And then it began.

He recognised those signs. The nostrils, the twitching and sniffing of the air. He recalled the first time he met Azar. He had been tricked into drinking a potion,it had made him think he was a cat. Chaos had followed and Param had been launched inside a tree. It brought a chuckle as he thought about it. And here it was now. The irony was not lost on him. And yet he noted this was far more potent, brutal...effective. Clearly, Azar had refined it.

He heard the screaming, felt the scratching of the door as those under attack and not yet turned were being ripped apart, eaten. It reminded him of times in the past. Before the Sith. How he had stalked and eaten flesh. Azar had helped Trodai more than he knew.

Hearing the comlink, Trodai answered calmly in return "It will be done. Neat trick by the way, I knew my claws might come in handy eventually." adding one small joke, despite the fact people were dying inside the corridor. He stood, holding until eventually only the two were left. They were filtered back the way they came. Every eye was looking over the ramparts as the leader and one other ran back to camp. It wouldn't be too long before word started spreading of the terror unleashed inside the camp. And the blame started coming.

Exactly as anticipated.

Trodai was enjoying it. Although he did wish he was at Azar side watching the carnage, but Trodai knew he had been needed where he was. To hold the line and make sure no feral locked in got into the city itself. Once they were gone. Troda I entered and his eyes dropped. There was so much blood, guts and visceral everywhere. The stuff had been very potent indeed. He carefully traversed his way back to Azar, allowing Grotthu in to clean it all up. It was going to be a long day for them and hopefully none digested blood.

No the bodies would be burnt to make sure no infected remained.

As he stood, he folded his arms observing "Shouldn't be long before we start getting word about the camp. And the results should help secure your claim as we wanted, when people find out who helped." Trodai said smiling in the mask "I never imagined what would become of that potion though. You made some impressive improvements."

@Sreeya

 

[Darth Arcanos]

Azar looked over when Trodai joined him, smirking, “All of my potions serve a purpose,” He said simply. He watched the grotthu cleaning up the mess, knowing that Ragnos and one other were running back to their camp with their tails between their legs. How would they explain such a defeat? How would they explain what happened?

“Leaving the second witness alive was social engineering, you see,” Azar explained calmly, “Ragnos is a leader. He will return and attempt to placate the village and explain the situation away to avoid a panic. The second witness will remain silent, listen, observe. But he will have known the reality of it. He will have those haunting memories of watching his brothers eat one another like vicious animals. He will know something unnatural happened in those tunnels,” Azar said calmly, “The witness will be the one that whispers what really happened. Perhaps to his wife..or a friend..who will then start passing it on. People will talk. Doubt will fester. Ragnos will slowly begin to lose credibility and control of the situation.”

Azar smiled slowly, “By the time we march, their camp will be in complete disarray. It will be a swift takeover with much of their people believing the gods are punishing them. We would be the harbingers of justice, smiting them with decisive judgment,” He kept his gaze on that empty corridor, “Victory will be ours.”

He remained silent as he watched the cleanup. Azar operated very differently than the soldiers that rushed into battle. His way was slow, patient, insidious and ultimately devastating on many more levels.

@Akheron

 

[Trodai Narat-iv-Adas]

Trodai returned the smirk, although Azar could not see it. He no doubt felt what he was feeling. He didn't envy the Grotthu as they mopped, scrubbed and scrapped everything up. For most the smell would be terrible, but Trodai had been around death all his life. It was as a old, familiar scent. Easily recognised and just as easily blocked out. He continued to listen, loving the sound of his voice as Azar explained it all.

"That they certainly do. I've never seen a Ragnos so scared or run so fast...he certainly is regretting attacking now." he said almost laughing at imaging it. Trodai was a keen student almost, learning lessons even though Azar were not his true master. He took notes, ideas for how to tackle future problems elsewhere. Useful tips. The more to become stronger.

He chuckled as Azar finished, a unsettling, sinister laugh to the casual observer. He nodded, understanding before he spoke "As I would expect. For it is our way, the Sith way. I knew there was a reason I asked for you" he said, chuckling.

Some time later the two were an-route towards the camp, on the way Trodai opted to discuss something he had discovered while they had been in the library and searching for books. Something useful. For now there was no need to put the mask or helmet on just yet.

"You know I found something in the library, something I wish to share with you, Azar. I came across a old scroll, not quite sure how it wasn't dust but it was there. It spoke of secrets only of the Adas line...I don't think mother intended I find it. For it spoke of the ancient ways. A pathway to power few have travelled. Yet I am not sure how much you know about it."

He continued "Tell me Azar, in Dreshdae. Did you ever hear tales of the terror of ancient times? Of ones capable of leading great armies or bringing them to heel with fire, destruction and beast alike. Of the Warlords?" he smiled , letting Azar know with it, which direction this conversation was possibly going in. And of what Trodai had planned to surprise their enemies.

@Sreeya

 

[Darth Arcanos]

Azar nodded at his question, “I have heard of something like that from the main line of Adas. The direct lines have strength in their lineage. Children born into each of these royal houses possess the strengths of their ancestors. For Kressh it is blood sorcery and alchemy,” He explained, “If you meet my family, you will note we are all…smaller in stature,” He said with a faint smile. He was not a tall man, even so he stood taller than the vast majority of his family, “But we are formidable with alchemy and complex uses of the Force. We are very weak in martial skills and warfare,” He had no issues admitting it. Kressh were known for being cunning - which meant surrounding themselves with those skilled in areas they were not.

“I understood that the warlords were as formidable as the ancient Kressh sorcerers,” He explained, “Have you considered whether you possess the gifts?” Azar asked, his gaze flicking down to Trodai’s three digit hands, “You are, after all, from the main line.”

@Akheron

 

[Trodai Narat-iv-Adas]

Trodai smiled as Azar nodded, speaking of knowing about the Adas Warlords and found himself equally interested when he mentioned that the Kressh also shared certain gifts. With each royal blood lineage sharing a affinity for unique gifts. He had noted that Azar was correct, his lineage were smaller. And dabbled in other areas he was not good at. He thought though, even if Azar was smaller, it didn't change a thing he felt for the man.

Trodai nodded his head as Azar further explained and asked if he possessed the gift from Adas. From his bloodline. As Azar looked at his 3 digits, Trodai looked at them. Turning them briefly as if to consider the possibility. He answered calmly, his tone solemn yet curious at knowing if he did.

"Until recently no, I never did look into it. But when we had our discussion, and going to the library. Now with the battle coming up...I have wondered if I do. But I am not sure if there is a way to tell if one has the gift. I am curious and wish to know. If it does I would pursue this line of power and strength, so our enemies would never expect it."

He didn't have time to consider more they had arrived. The sounds coming from the camp were horrendous, as panic was taking hold. Trodai observed, smiling at it all. No mercy or feelings of empathy for those that suffered. Such was the fate of all who would defy not just them. But the Sith too.

-------------------------------------------------------------

...Meanwhile inside the camp shortly before they arrived...


Veris Ragnos iv-Marzeti considered his actions carefully as he sat upon a makeshift wooden throne. None knew what had transpired, why they had failed the strike upon the City of Ur having finally 'persuaded ' a prisoner to talk. And found a body with intelligence that confirmed as genuine. None, except he and one other among the crowd. And he could not locate him, he had tried for several days. He still remembered what he saw the images burned into him. How something unnatural had gripped his brothers and turned them against each other...into feral beasts. But he dared not tell anyone. He had grown paranoid and anxious since.

He needed to find the one missing and silence him.

He attempted to placate those gathered who were angry at this failure, at how he had promised success for the biggest raid yet. Only to come back with nothing but one survivor. They spoke up in rage.

"You promised us victory! Where is it!"

"You said we were favoured! Yet the Gods abandon us!"

And more was said, far worse. Calling for his removal only for him to stand up and raise his hands, trying to calm them down.

"Calm! Calm my people! You need not take such drastic measures! I know I promised and I still intend to deliver. The fortifications were simply stronger than anticipated that's all...me and my officers are now in the process of a new strategy. One that will secure victory as promised! The gods still favour us."

And then one spoke up "And what of this rumour we heard in the camp. How you went and encountered a supernatural presence in the Ur catacombs! How our families, brothers were turned into beasts! Fed on each other we heard! And you ran!"

Veris looked at them, he had heard the rumour too. The truth had been spread about by the one who made it out, and he had a hard time hiding it. He had managed to conceal it, with several bodies in the sand by his men but it was still proving difficult to remove the rumours completely. The one spreading them persisted to spread it. It was a tiresome task finding him.

He spoke again "Vicious lies I tell you! Would I not be standing here if this were true?"

They considered it, yet towards the man in the darkest corner one stared. Nodded and shrouded, occasionally coughing. He stepped between the crowd, and observed. He spread word around of the truth. Told them to not believe a word Veris said. And then he started to change...slowly at first. He was questioned by a overly friendly elder male.

"You alright? Your looking a bit pale there son. Come here, sit down and have a drink. See if anything is worth listening too."

The younger male did so, not at first though. His paranoia and anxiety at what he had seen not allowing him his thoughts. He got worse as he stayed...without warning he suddenly attacked. His eyes bloodshot and filled with rage. One first, then another, working his way among the crowd. Soon panic ensued as Veris tried keeping the calm but to no avail. Screaming and running Purebloods soon littered the streets with people trampling each other trying to escape.

It was then they heard some commotion from the gates. And some ran for them. Others blamed Veris for their misfortune and that the Gods had indeed abandoned them by following him.

----------------------------------------------------------------------------

---Back outside as Azar and Trodai arrive---


Trodai continued observing as what looked to be soldiers of some variety attempted to remove people from climbing the walls from inside the camp. The screaming was getting louder and one of the walls was threatening to give way as the crowd bashed against it. The sounds of death and destruction was in the air and fires had spread releasing thick black smoke.

One or two snuck threw a panel and ran towards the armoured caravan. Some with children, some without. All were in a state of panic.

"Save us!"

"The Gods have forsaken us!"

Some were heard to say and others such things. All expecting to be rescue from the horrors they saw inside, yet none would come. Trodai smiled at Azar as he saw it all "It is working. Panic and terror spread like wildfire. Ripe for the taking, your name will soon be yours again Azar." he said.

@Sreeya