Mona Lisa

[Siris Drast]

Siris stood outside of Alais's and Cregan's lakehouse on Lothal, his eyes burning a hole through the door. He stood there motionless outside, the wind picking up slightly as he could feel what was happening inside. Of course, he had known about Cregan's death the moment it happened, having felt it through the force. That's when he also felt the volcanic explosion behind it, something of pure rage, agony, and defeat. Siris was able to tell that she was hurting, even feeling it now like a dull and pulsing thud through the door. Elix and Lyanna were most likely somewhere nearby but he couldn't sense them, either under the supervision of a caretaker or they were already asleep.

Siris gave one more long sigh before reaching his hand forward, testing the knob and realizing it was locked. With a simple flick of his wrist, the locks in the doors clicked and he gave the door a soft push. It creaked slightly as it opened and Siris took one step inside, the house seemed more lifeless then it ever had been even though it was his first time being here. Glancing around the room, it wasn't hard to spot the pictures of Cregan and Alais together, sometimes Elix mixed in with them. Heading over to one of the coffee tables, he picked up the frame of all three of them together and studied it for a few moments. They were all happy in it but before he could think on it any further, Siris remembered what he was here for and he felt Alais through the force deeper in the house.

Putting it down gently, Siris stepped through a couple of hallways before arriving into a large room, most of the wall replaced with windows that gave an expansive view of the lake before him. But he didn't even notice the view, instead it was locked on Alais who just sitting on the floor and facing towards the lake. He didn't say anything at first, knowing that Alais knew that he was there with her and to be quite frank he didn't know what to say. Siris made his way over to the couch behind her, sitting down and leaning forward with his elbows resting on his knees. There was silence between them for a few minutes as he stared down at his interlocked hands, contemplating his thoughts.

 

[Andraste]

She was hugging her knees to herself, resting her chin atop them as she blankly gazed out at the lake. There was anger and sorrow admixed into one as she looked ahead. She couldn’t process Cregan’s death and she was doing a very poor job of handling it. There was hate pumping through her veins and it blackened her heart, making her into every bit of what the Jedi feared. They told tales about her and now they were all coming true. Was this the prophecy? Was this the vision she saw and the vision the councilor she destroyed foresaw? Was it why he wanted to strip her of the Force?

She didn’t even hear him come in at first, her sunken gaze still facing ahead. It took her a moment to register his presence, and she was more than a little surprised. Andraste wiped her eyes and slowly turned to face him. He would see she looked like a mere shell of her usual self, deep circles under her eyes and her face tear stained. It was clear she hadn’t been sleeping or eating properly. Andraste had been relying heavily on others to tend to the children, feeling emotionally broken and withdrawn since Cregan’s death.

“I thought you said you would never set foot in this house,” She muttered quietly to Siris, her voice hoarse. Andraste turned to look ahead of herself again, ashamed to let him see her like this. She knew he had absolutely no desire to be in this house, and to see him here was shocking. It was no secret that Siris wasn’t a big fan of Cregan, and she didn’t expect that to change by the death of the latter. It was a testament to his feelings towards her that he swallowed his pride to show up here. Andraste sighed and buried her face into her hands, “I feel so broken…”

 

[Siris Drast]

Siris felt her gaze lay on him and he lifted his, making them meet as he saw the toll of Cregan's death had on her. It was easy to see the tiredness on her face. He only assumed she wasn't eating as well but Siris was sure he was correct about it. It hurt him to see his wife like this, even if he wasn't Cregan's biggest supporter, he wouldn't want to cause the hurt it gave his wife. "I came as soon as I felt your pain." He murmured back, the house deathly quiet and making both of their voices easily heard. When Alais turned away it also hurt him slightly as well, wanting her to know that he was here for her and that she didn't have to hide from him. When she said she felt broken, Siris stared at the back of her head for a few moments before standing up and making his way to her.

In a few steps be he was behind her and he sat down, spreading his legs out so they were outside of Alais and scooting closer to her. Siris slid one of his arms under hers and across her chest, gripping her shoulder softly while his other arm went across her stomach. "Come here," He pulled her against his torso, placing his cheek against the top of her head as he stared out at the lake with her. Siris held her in a tight embrace, giving her some of his warmth as he kissed the top of her head. "I know you're hurting but you need to take care of yourself as well Alais." Siris leaned his mouth down to her ear, giving it a light kiss as well before whispering to her, "How about I cook something up for you? I know you're hungry."

Siris retracted his arms from her before standing up, taking a few steps so he stood in front of her before offering his hand down to help her up. He led her to the kitchen, pulling out a chair for her to sit down in while he combed through the cabinets. There was still plenty of supplies left and Siris collected everything he needed and started to prepare their meal. While everything heated up, Siris brought his gaze back on Alais once more, studying her for a few seconds before walking over to the table. Pulling out a chair for himself and sitting down, he crossed his arms on the desk while continuing to maintain his gaze on her. Siris then pulled one of his hands free, his fingers finding her's as he gave her hand a light squeeze and ran his thumb along her knuckles as she did to him when they were in the pool. "Talk to me."

Siris was quite efficient with his mind techniques now, able to ward off most attempts to break in and able to retrieve thoughts without too much difficulty. But the two of them agreed that they wouldn't invade each other's mind and he maintained that promise, knowing this needed to be taken in steps and not rushed.

 

[Andraste]

Andraste listened to him quietly, not turning to face him as he spoke and drew closer to her. She was still on the ground hugging her knees when he sat down behind her and pulled her close. She didn’t resist, sliding easily across the floor and into his warmth. For a moment, she eased into him, nestled into his arms as she felt more at ease and protected. She felt his kiss atop her head, a faint smile gracing her lips, “I don’t feel like taking care of myself…” She sighed, “I don’t feel like doing anything. I just want to get lost here and forget about everything that happened.”

As he came around and offered his hand, she took it, hoisting herself up and following him into the kitchen. Even being here was surreal for her, as she spent a lot of time here with Cregan and he would entertain Elix many times. The kids were sound asleep in a different room and would be out for a few hours, “Elix will be thrilled to see you,” Andraste muttered as she took the seat Siris pulled out for her, “He misses Cregan a lot and seeing you will help him slowly get over that. He’s convinced Cregan is still hiding from him…”

She had to bite her lip as tears threatened to come again. It had been exhausting crying so much, and she had to stop herself before she felt physically ill. For a long moment, she sat in silence, the delicious aroma of food cooking slowly beginning to rise. Simply hearing him bustle around and prepare a meal brought life back into the house. For days now, she had been curled up and sitting in silence, the only sound made from Elix or Lyanna whenever they were awake.

Andraste’s hair was a mess, and she absentmindedly toyed with it as Siris came back to sit across from her. It was then that she took the time to gaze at him for a long moment, taking in the details of his face, “What’s there to say?” She shrugged, “I thought we were untouchable…indestructible. This truly shook me to my core,” Andraste entwined her fingers with his as he held her hand, her yellow eyes meeting his silver orbs, “And being in this war…tomorrow I could lose Kravos..the next day I could lose you. I think I’d rather die myself than experience that.”

 

[Siris Drast]

Siris stopped what he was doing as she mentioned Elix, his gaze locked on the cabinet with his hand still on the knob as she explained how their child was doing. He didn't account for the fact like an idiot that Elix would and was affected by this like everyone else. He tossed it up to Elix hopefully forgetting about Cregan's death and have it slip from memory but that was obviously highly unrealistic for this situation. Hearing the strain in Alais' voice, it wasn't hard to spot that she was a wreck and that explaining something like this to their son wouldn't be easy. Siris gave out a soft sigh as he resumed his preparation, contemplating to himself while being kept occupied.

With their fingers intertwining he gave her hand another light squeeze, "I promised you that I wouldn't leave your side. I intend to keep that fulfilled as long as your heart is beating with mine." Siris spoke with utmost conviction, willing to go to whatever length for his wife. Upon hearing his name, Siris was reminded that he would soon need to meet Kravoson the fleet to begin their assault. It would be the first time in a long time they had a personal reunion and that was another can of worms Siris would have to navigate. Cregan and Kravos were both known as very close friends and he wondered how his old friend was dealing with the loss. "Soon I'll depart with Kravos to Ellora and I swear on my power as well that I will make sure he returns home with me." While Siris may not have liked the fact about sharing his wife with others, Kravos had never caused her harm and both of them had the same line of thinking when it usually came to most things and especially with Alais.

Lifting her hand up to his mouth, Alais could see Siris stare into her knuckles for a few seconds as he thought to himself before starting to kiss each one. "If you want, I can explain to Elix the news about Cregan if it's too painful for you. I won't mind." The sooner he knew it would be better for everyone but it was a delicate subject and he would leave up to her whether she wanted Siris to or not. His gaze went back to the food he was making, letting Alais think over his words as he went to the counter, adding and applying the last ingredients before scooping it onto a plate. It was some pasta expertly made after Siris' years of cooking and he stabbed a fork into it, steam rising and giving a new delicious smell to the room as he brought it over to her. He would have given her a sugary treat but with her having not eaten in days Alais needed actual food and some nutrition. "You can get dessert after if you finish the plate." Siris gave her a slight teasing grin, knowing how she was and talking to her like she was Elix complaining about having to eat his veggies. It was also an attempt to lighten the situation, hoping to see a smile touch Alais' lips again.

 

[Andraste]

Andraste focused on their fingers entwined together while he spoke, enjoying the closeness of having him with her again. She looked at him as he reminded her of his promise, and it was closely followed by his declaration that he would be moving the fleet towards Ellora. It was all part of the war, and she knew it was a move to finally help eradicate the Jedi. Perhaps once that was done, they could ease into a sense of normalcy. Andraste watched him as he tenderly kissed her knuckles, her gaze never leaving his as she felt his soft lips press against her skin. It was a subtle gesture, and it meant everything to her, conveying the love he felt so easily.

Andraste smiled sadly as he mentioned breaking the news to Elix, “I’ve tried so many times. He is stubborn like his father in many ways….he refuses to believe Cregan can be gone,” She sighed, shaking her head, “He says there are so many episodes of his shows left to watch and he hasn’t told Cregan what happened when…” She closed her eyes, tears squeezing out and rolling down her cheeks. She had to take a moment to collect herself again, watching Siris step away for just a moment to get the meal. His cooking was one of the most astonishing traits about him, especially considering how closed off and distant he usually was. Today was no different and she was reminded of how hungry she was as she looked down at the food.

She had to chuckle softly at his warning about dessert, “How did you know? I’ve been craving some cookies,” Andraste waited till he got a plate for himself before taking a bite, “Amazing as always. Where did you learn all this?” She was genuinely surprised each time he made a new dish. For a long moment, she said nothing, all but scarfing down the first meal she had in days. It brought within her a sense of energy she hadn’t felt, and strength slowly began to come back to her.

“Siris,” She finally said after a while, putting her fork down and staring at him, “It is your promise I’ve been thinking about,” Andraste rose from her seat and strode over to him where he was still sitting. She came to a stop close to him, still gazing into his eyes, “I don’t want you to leave my side. I don’t want you to fall further into this spiral,” She reached her hand out and cupped the side of his face, “I want you to give up being the Eternal. I want you to pass the mask off to someone else. I want you to come back to being my husband and the love of my life. I want you to come back to being the father of our child. There are many burdens for you to bear, and I don’t want the Eternal to be one of them. Cregan’s loss made me realize what’s important and it’s our family. I want you to come back to it.”

 

[Siris Drast]

Siris came back to the table with his plate, stabbing his fork into his food and twirling it around as steam erupted from it. He took a bite as well and savored the taste of the food and he glanced over to Alais as he swallowed it down. Siris had told her before but he never really explained it, "My sister always wanted to eat at restaurants when we were younger. Obviously, we couldn't pay for it so I learned to cook to try and give her same experience." He shrugged his shoulders, not finding a big deal of what he did or how he learned it. When Alais started to dig in he didn't speak, letting her eat in peace and not daring to interrupt it. He ate his meal at a steady pace, occasionally casting a sideways glance to her just to make sure she finished her plate.

When she said his name, Siris brought his gaze over to her and put his fork down as well with his eyebrow arched slightly. He turned in his seat to face her as Alais made her way to him. He remained silent as she spoke, barely feeling her hand as she cupped his face. His mind exploded with a million different thoughts and what she was asking him. The mask was a part of him now, he could feel it inside him and she was asking him to tear it off like a band-aid. Siris didn't care if he lost the Black Hand or the power that The Eternal actually had, he never cared for power and he always wanted that normalcy in life. Alais was giving him a chance to go down the path he always wanted but something crawling in his mind was tugging him away from it.

Alais would be able to see the crimson streaks come back to Siris' eyes, searing into them and appearing wider than before and acting as the eyes of the Eternal mask and catching her in the act. It was like it was there with them and Siris' force signature fluctuated like it always did when he battled against the Eternal. He scooted back in the chair and away from her touch, turning around and taking a few steps away from her before leaning against the counter. Siris gripped onto it tightly, his knuckles turning white as the Eternal spoke into his mind again, "We warned you of this, she would try to separate us. One of her lovers has died, she feels threatened by us. You know what to do, say no. You belong with us now." Siris inhaled and exhaled, resisting the effects of the mask even it nowhere near the planet. "Alais..." He murmured mostly to himself, the mask still whispering different words and using memories or small visions to help them.

 

[Andraste]

Andraste knew this wouldn’t be easy for him, and she knew it would tear up his mind in every way. She kept standing where she was until she felt him scoot back in the chair and get to his feet. The moment he turned away, she quickly grasped his wrist and stopped him right there, jerking on his arm till he faced her again. Andraste shook her head, saying nothing as she looked into his eyes. It was a clear indication that he wouldn’t be turning away from her. Not now. It was a declarative statement without a word being uttered, especially as she always gave him the space to withdraw into himself. She wouldn’t allow it this time.

As he uttered her name, she held her firm gaze, along with the grasp on his wrist. Andraste knew there was a battle raging within his mind, and she could see the changes in his eyes. The mask was speaking to him even now while it was so far away. She knew it had poisoned him, and it coursed through his veins. Andraste knew it would take him time to process this and to make a decision. It was the biggest decision of his life, perhaps even bigger than the ultimatum she had given him years prior.

“I will only ask you to choose what makes you happy,” She spoke, her voice stronger than it had been in days, “I love you far too much to ask anything else. If the Eternal is the path that brings you that, then I will respect your wishes. But you know where my thoughts lie. I only ask this of you as your wife and the woman you met on Dagobah. I do not ask this of you as your Empress. Empress Andraste would suffer a great loss if you were to give up the mask,” Andraste’s yellow eyes gazed into the crimson streaks that were becoming more and more prominent. Her own animalistic gaze pierced into his, challenging him and the remnants of the Eternal within him. There was no fear in her, a subtle reminder that she had her own monster existing just below the surface. Yet within that there were hints of Alais, a pleading look that emerged again years after lying dormant.

 

[Siris Drast]

Before he could step away he felt Alais' hand shoot out and snag his wrist, forcing him to stay there and turn around. Siris almost ripped his hand out, feeling the start of a snarl as the Eternal's control extended more. But he saw Alais' face and he didn't resist, just staring into her eyes as she stared into his. They've both been in these moments before, where they say nothing but their eyes speaking more words to each other than whatever they could describe. But the monsters inside both of them had a standoff, the Eternal rising inside him to challenge Alais' while it still spoke to Siris. She would be able to tell it was speaking to him, the crimson streaks flaring and becoming either brighter or darker. He seemed frozen in place as he had this battle, staring at Alais.

In his mind, it was something else from the odd serenity of home, each of his emotions flaring as the Eternal showed it's displeasment. How many times will you fall under this trick? No matter what bow it's wrapped in it will always be the same. The voice circled around his head, it feeling like a snake was resting on his shoulders and hovering its head next to Siris' ear. She pleads for you now as Alais, but the moment she leaves this house the dreaded thing you hate will take control over her again. His jaw locked slightly, You know nothing. You twist and contort whatever you touch and you are doing the same now. The Eternal just laughed in his ear, What do you believe she does? And what do you think you will become without us? The great Siris returned to the Empress as her own personal little pet she can frequent. Do not lower yourself to that, we are not that pathetic. We can become something more than just a grand slave for her. Siris' anger flared the Eternal's words cutting him in a certain way as he glanced down towards the ground. The hand of the wrist Alais held closed, it shaking slightly as his knuckles turned white while he tried to control himself.

When she spoke he raised his gaze back to hers, his eyes gleaming slightly as it silently told her that he understood her words. But before he could do anything else Siris felt a sudden force pull him back and he closed his eyes, the Eternal's invisible claws sinking into him and pulling him into the pit of his mind where they always spoke in complete privacy. After a moment, Siris stood on just darkness, moving shadows surrounding him but he remained completely visible. He felt nothing except a chill, the heart of a devasting winter but it didn't make him shiver or actually make himself feel cold. Raising his gaze he found the Eternal standing in front of him, donned in the infamous armor and mask. Its crimson eyes shone brighter than ever and the wisps that trailed off of it made the Eternal appear even more ethereal.

They stared at each other for a few moments before both started pacing back and forth slowly, the two of them still connected and mimicking each other. Why do you falter? You have so much power and you waste it like a fool. Siris shook his head as did the Eternal, You are wrong about everything. Everything you see is a lie, a way to possess. I will not be played by your words anymore. The Eternal laughed darkly, You are a coward, the moment we achieve something you are now deciding on leaving our embrace. You wish to be a forgotten note in history? Siris stopped in his place there was he gazed outward for a few moments before turning to face his monster, When Alais and I went out on this campaign to create an Empire in the galaxy, it was to prove something to the galaxy. But when she gave birth to Elix everything changed, it was now meant for him. To create something where he would be proud of us and he could live free of what I experienced in my life. The only thing you care for is destruction and I will not follow that path. I will always choose my family first. Siris' signature flourished as he begun to take control once more, the Eternal's grasp on him slowly starting to shrink back as he was fueled by what had driven him so long. It had always been Alais and Siris would have done anything for her. He drew on his emotions that he felt for Alais, finding them a near infinite well of power as he continued to push back against the Eternal.

It stood there, shimmering slightly and seeming unbothered by what Siris was doing and finally just accepting it. You know of the creed you created, you cannot leave of your own will. You will be hunted. There will always be an Eternal. Siris had his eyes closed momentarily before they snapped open at his threat, his orbs now a pure and dark crimson like the Eternal's. I do not care what we built, if you come after my family I will tear it all down. You will be saved for last so you can see it all fall before you eventually join it. His warning held no warmth and conveyed the lethal power he still contained inside him. The Eternal may have thought he was wasting it, but Siris was still ready to unleash it's devasting power upon the creature if he needed too.

To Siris it took a matter of seconds but to Alais, it seemed like minutes had passed where they had just stood there in silence together. He opened his eyes slowly and eventually, returned back to their piercing silver but the crimson streaks remaining and scarring them. Siris eased his wrist out from her grasp so that his hand caught hers and he gingerly intertwined their fingers. Siris raised and locked his gaze with hers as it bore right into her, "I will give up being the Eternal." His voice was gruff and quiet but it held conviction to it that Alais knew well enough to know that he meant it.

 

[Andraste]

Andraste was silent for long time, watching him and seeing the battle that was going on within his mind. While she couldn’t hear what the mask was saying, she knew it was twisting with his thoughts. It had been like that since the very beginning, and she had been there witness every step of the way. His personality was stripped away bit by bit over time, the man before her very different from who she initially fell in love with. Andraste remembered the promises they had made to one another, and she knew she had asked him to make many choices he never would have on his own.

As much as she wanted to interrupt, she remained silent, knowing this was his own battle to fight through. She heard him speak out loud, knowing it was directed at the Eternal and not her. Nevertheless, it brought a pang of pain to her to see this play out and hear the struggles he went through. With all the time he spent away, she never had insight into what went through his mind anymore. She wanted nothing more than to reach out to him and hold him close, to tell him she was here, and to reaffirm that his family was there for good. However, she knew it was important for him to get through this on his own.

However, when he finally gave her his answer, there was nothing but silence for a long moment. Andraste stared at him with shock, despite having asked it of him. He was giving up everything. He was giving up everything he had built up for the Black Hand, the base he had established and the galactic wide infamy he had obtained as the Eternal. No one would ever know what he had accomplished as the Eternal, only whatever he chose to accomplish from here on out as Siris. She knew it would hit him hard, and he would be giving up the connections he had made. But he was doing this all for her and Elix, and the thought humbled her. It reminded her of just how she meant to him.

“Siris..” She couldn’t muster anything else, biting her lip as tears welled in her eyes. It was not tears from grief, but of a reminder of just who this was and just what they had between them. This was the man on Malastare, the man that confessed his love while she was ready to give her life for him. This was the man she first had a child with, the father of her firstborn, the father of the future ruler of the entire Empire they had built, the beginning of the legacy that would last for generations. Siris was cutting his own part out of history as the Eternal to focus back on her and their child.

She couldn’t stop it anymore – the tears flowed freely. However, he would know now that it was not grief. She stepped forth and grasped a fistful of the front of his clothing, yanking him down towards her level. Andraste didn’t utter any words, simply pressing her lips against his, giving him a taste of her salty tears and passion admixed into one. He would know she understood the battle he fought just then, and she felt that painful pang of guilt for even asking him for this. Andraste kissed him for a long moment before withdrawing just slightly, “I love you…both our son and I…we love you and we want you here..” She wrapped her arms around him and pulled him close.

 

[Siris Drast]

It was a strange feeling, invisible tendrils seeming to slip from his mind as he fully relinquished his control of the mask and the traces of the Eternal disappeared. Siris knew deep down it would always be a part of him no matter how hard he tried. The mask had left its mark on him like anything it touches and he didn't even know how much he had lost yet of himself. But he hadn't remembered what he felt like without the Eternal so long and it was an entirely new experience for him. When Alais spoke it woke him back from his thoughts, his gaze rehoning on her as tears began to form in your eyes. "I'll give it up." Siris murmured again softly, his other hand coming up as he cupped her cheek like he always did.

Siris had done everything for his family, for Alais and Elix. This wasn't something new to him and while he would never be recognized for what he had done by the general mass, his family would and that was all he needed. The tears really started to flow and Siris gave a half smile, understanding that they weren't falling because of grief but because of what he had chosen. Before he could do anything else Alais had already grabbed handfuls of his clothing, bringing him down to her level so their lips could claim each other. Siris felt it all as he conveyed the same to her, the love and passion he felt for her unmatched by anything else this galaxy could offer him. His hand slid to the back of her head and into her hair, deepening the kiss and savoring the taste of her.

When she pulled away Siris didn't let her go far, still keeping their foreheads connected with his eyes closed as well. "I love you both with all my heart. I plan on staying with you both for good this time." He spoke gruffly and quietly, still remembering the kids were asleep in the house. His other hand went to her chin and tilted her head up as he leaned down again, having their lips meet once more. Siris didn't want to think anymore, it felt like his mind has been tore to shreds and he could barely process a thought. All he knew is that he meant what he said when he would give up the mask and that he wanted Alais right now. He was controlled by his feelings for her and Siris started to act upon them.

Siris' arms wrapped around her slim torso, lifting her up and keeping her pressed against him. He took a few steps before placing her down on the table, positioned between her legs and standing at the edge. His lips claimed hers once more, a newfound hunger found underneath his kisses as he savored each taste of her. His hands slid to her thighs, gripping them tightly as he split them apart before pulling her into him by them. Siris pulled his lips away slightly, now breathing harder slightly but still remaining quiet enough not to disturb, "I love you." Siris whispered softly, gazing into her eyes as he tilted her head up to look at him.

 

[Andraste]

He repeated that he would give it up, and it once again had the same jarring effect as when he first said it. She was still in disbelief, the Empress in her thoroughly disappointed, but Alais truly happy for the first time in years. She had her Siris back, the young person she had met in the middle of a swamp, the boy she had met as a foolish girl, and the boy she had seen grow into a powerful man that the galaxy feared. She only wanted that boy again, the one that had reached out to that naïve girl inside her so long ago. Alais was ecstatic, and she pushed passed Andraste and emerged into the surface, relishing the tender moments with him.

As he mentioned that he planned on staying, she knew he was telling the truth. It wasn’t a half baked promise like he had made in the past, only to disappear back to his base. That mask would never become a part of her direct family again, and that was exactly the way she wanted it. She couldn’t help the tears that flowed freely now, though she managed a faint smile through them, “I know..I know this is what you wanted from the beginning…” She recalled back to when he had simply wanted it to be just the two of them, before she ever had other husbands, before she had dreams and aspirations of an empire. She meant the world to him before she meant anything to the world.

Andraste felt him easily lift her up, her arms going around his shoulders to hold on as she was set on the table. She didn’t bother wiping her tears away before she pulled him close, keeping her legs to the sides of his hips as she looked up, “I love you too. I’m sorry it took me so long to see this…it took me so long to realize…it should have just been us before the Empire, before all this conquest and before putting everything else first,” As she spoke, she curled her fingers into his hair, leaning in to lightly bite his lower lip. She felt almost afraid of wanting him now, hesitating just slightly but not pulling back. She was in pain, but there was no denying the exhilaration she felt with having him here. Andraste knew what he was thinking, pulling back to see the fire in his eyes, the remnants of the crimson streaks still there. It vaguely reminded her of the time she had been on the base with him, “….Right here?” She couldn’t help but laugh softly against his lips, realizing this was the most she had smiled in days.

 

[Siris Drast]

It was what Siris wanted from the beginning and he had always made it known to her. If it was up to him, he would have taken Alais with him and let the galaxy sort out its own problems without them. As long as he had her he would have always been happy. He stared down into her eyes as the tears continued to flow, locked in with her by her legs. When she spoke, Siris couldn't really believe what Alais was saying. Did she regret all of this and wish she could take it back? Back to when it was just the two of them and no other husbands? Or was this just her grief speaking for her but Siris couldn't focus after that, feeling her fingers tighten in his hair as she bit on onto his lower lip. Siris closed his eyes groaning softly into her mouth at the sensations Alais made him feel.

Siris couldn't quite place it but he felt it, this was Alais and it made Siris savor the moment he had with her even more. He still loved the woman who was Andraste but Alais was the one who had truly captured his heart. She was the woman who could always draw him back from whatever darkness he plunged in. When she pulled back Siris' eyes found hers again, the fire inside them alive and raging as he stared at her, the passion clear inside them. When she asked her question, he also couldn't help but smile as he gave her a kiss, "If you'll have me." Siris' hands went to her thighs, pulling her in so that their hips joined together as he said the words. His lips went to her neck as he waited for her answer, kissing along the nape of her neck gently against her delicate skin. One of his hands came up to her shoulder as he leaned away, pushing her down slowly until she laid back against the table.

Siris stared down at her, placing his finger at the valley of her dress before slowly dragging down the soft fabric and stopping just right above her belly button. This was the first time he felt like he was completely himself without the Eternal watching over his shoulder. He wanted Alais all to himself and he wanted to savor every second of her while she was with him. The crimson in his eyes seemed to gleam brighter as he admired her and reflecting the hunger that continued to escalate inside him. Siris extended his hands forward as he hooked one of his fingers beneath each of Alais' dress straps. He pulled them off her shoulders before slowly peeling it off her body as he drew it back to him. Siris' eyes were quick to follow behind it, examining every inch of her skin before letting go of the dress once it reached her hips.

Siris leaned down to her, kissing her stomach softly before dragging his lips and kissing her skin again. He made a diamond before making a trail upwards, certainly taking his time and not making a sound as he did it. Siris lifted his lips once he reached her chest and kissed along her jawline than the corner of her mouth before one on her lips. He leaned back as he gazed down at her, his eyes piercing right through her, "I can have you myself now and I want all of you." Alais would know he was referring to the Eternal and he leaned down to bite her bottom lip to return the gesture.

 

[Andraste]

----​

She was still flushed from their rather heated encounter in the kitchen, and she took her time relaxing in a steaming hot shower. It was relaxing and much needed, just like being with Siris was much needed. His choice to leave the Eternal behind was still on her mind, and it felt like a weight being lifted off both their shoulders. She spent a lot of time thinking about the implications of this move and who would replace him. The Eternal was a heavy burden to carry, and she knew she just condemned someone else to that life.

Thoughts, both good and bad, weighed on her mind, but she finally came out in a robe and with her hair up in a towel. It was a sign of just how relaxed she was, looking fresh and healthy for the first time in days. Andraste knew Siris was relaxing in the main bedroom, and she took the time to check up on the kids. She barely managed to tell Elix who had come to visit before he went darting through the house to find Siris.

“Daddy!” The boy squealed as he climbed up awkwardly on the bed, toppling and faceplanting on the bed in the process. Totally undeterred, he continued till he crawled and collapsed atop Siris, burying his face into his chest. Andraste emerged a moment later, carrying a grumpy Lyanna that was very annoyed at being awakened.

“Sorry, I couldn’t keep him back,” She grinned at Siris, watching as Elix burst into a million questions asking where Siris had been and if he brought anything back for him. Andraste rolled her eyes, toying with Lyanna to keep her distracted.

 

[Siris Drast]

Siris laid in bed partly clothes, the sheets residing by hips as he had his head propped on his hand. He stared at the ceiling as the shower ran in the distance, Alais freshening herself after their little party in the kitchen. Despite that his mind also couldn't pull away from the mask, wondering what this meant for him now. It was the first time where he didn't have the weight on his shoulders, the weight of controlling the mask and maintaining the Black Hand. In a few days that wouldn't be anything, he had to worry about anymore, his only main priority now being his family and children. Of course, he would have to stay vigilant in case the mask decided to seek revenge against his choice to choose his wife.

With him giving up the mask, that meant someone had to take the mantle of it and Siris knew who it would be. Vex, the woman who was one of his only friends and of the most loyal he knew. She had never failed him personally or in the Black Hand, she was one of the greatest assets he had. Yet he was about to make her succumb to the powers of the mask and he didn't know whether it would break her or not. The mask wasn't like anything else and he hoped she was prepared for something of this caliber about to fall upon her. Siris wished he didn't have to give it off to one of his friends but he needed to be with his family, per his wife's request and his own need to see them. He always dreamed of a peaceful family with his wife and the Eternal's path was the opposite of that.

Siris didn't hear the shower turn off or Alais exit while he was in his thoughts, dissecting and processing everything like he always did. He heard a little boy shout and it snapped him out of his thoughts, making him sit up just in time to catch Elix faceplant into the soft bed. It caused him to laugh and he leaned forward slightly to pick up Elix, "How are you doing lil soldier?" Siris threw him in the air before catching, causing Elix to laugh before asking his father a barrage of questions. Siris could only chuckle as he glanced at Alais before lowering Elix and pulling him close into his torso, leaning down to speak into his hear, "Dad was gone for work but I intend to stay a lot longer with you guys this time." Elix turned with a shocked face, "You're staying dad?" Siris gave him a grin before ruffling the top of his head, "Yeah, I'm staying bud." Their son gave a bunch of cheerful shouts and Siris had to put his attention on Elix as he practically tried to wrestle him.

Siris saw Alais playing with Lyanna as she seemed rather grumpy about being woken up. He threw Elix on top of his shoulder, holding him there as he laughed while trying to get free. "Why don't you two join us?" Siris tossed Elix lightly onto the bed with a thud and he held up his hand before their son got too riled up, "Peace for now while Mom and your sister join us." Elix gave a grumpy look before looking over to them and sighing, "Fiiiiinne." He sat down on his behind before gesturing to Alais, "Come on mommy." The sight of the whole scene warmed his heart, knowing deep down he had made the right choice in giving up the mask. The little moments he had with his son were what precious with him and he would trade nothing for it. Siris could deal with not being a huge part of history like the others, as long as his family was happy so was he.

 

[Andraste]

Andraste watched Siris and Elix for a moment, emotions bubbling within her to see something so perfect. As much as Elix was raised by others, she only saw him light up like that when he was around Siris. She couldn’t help but think of where this all started, when it was just her and Siris. She thought about how she had been pregnant with Elix while she fought the Sith king, all while Siris had to watch and support her for all her insane decisions. She could see a sense of relief in him, and he appeared more relaxed than she had seen him in ages. This had been his priority all along, and he wanted this more than he ever wanted fame and power.

Andraste smiled at his words and stepped forth, climbing onto the large bed. She scooted till she was sitting next to Siris. The baby in her arms was blinking awake, staring at Siris now, “Meet Lyanna,” Andraste leaned in to kiss her on the forehead, “I know you weren’t….the biggest fan of Cregan. But I hope you can grow to love her,” She stared fondly at the baby, Elix climbing atop his father defiantly in case he was forgotten.

For a moment, she didn’t say anything, simply savoring this moment. She had Siris with her and she had both her children. Though she felt a pang in her chest from Cregan’s loss, this was just what she needed. Elix leaned in close to Siris’ face, eyes wide, “Daddy why are your eyes red?” He was fascinated and a little afraid. Andraste felt guilt pooling in her chest, a reminder that she should have asked Siris to give up the mask a long time ago.

“Who will you pass it to?” Andraste asked Siris, uncomfortable at the thought of punishing anyone else with the mask.

 

[Siris Drast]

Siris smiled as Alais made his way over and he gestured to Elix to scoot over which he complied and climbed over Siris' legs and waited for his mom. Scooting over as well, he wrapped his arm around Alais' shoulders and drawing her into him as his eyes went down to Lyanna. It was true he hadn't been fond of Cregan and the fact that he had a child with his wife wasn't the most appealing fact to know but he wasn't disgusted by Lyanna. She was a part of the family now and would be treated with equal respect as Elix. He leaned down after Alais spoke, having his thumb graze along her cheek, "Hi Lyanna," Siris also gave a soft kiss on her forehead in the same spot, "My name is Siris, nice to meet you." Lyanna reached out toward him, tapping his cheek lightly while letting out a soft squeal.

Siris felt Elix start to climb on top of him and he smiled down at Lyanna before finding his son right beside his face, staring right into his eyes with a look of amazement. He chuckled at his question before wrapped his arm around his neck, pulling him down into bed and also tight against his torso. It made all of them snug together and Siris kissed the top of his son's head, pressing his mouth hard on the top of his head before answering, "Because it makes my eyes look different compared to yours. Now both of them are unique." There would always be people with silver eyes but Elix's and Siris' had their own intensity, where even at his young age that when he asked a question it seemed like he was looking into your soul. Elix had his back to Siris, making them both forced to look at Lyanna as he rested his cheek on Elix's head. "You better look after your sister and not give her a hard time." He cast a fearful glance to Alais for Elix to see before looking back to him, "You don't want to anger mamma grizz, she can get pretty scary." Elix grinned as he reached for Lyanna's tiny hand, "I'll look after her daddy."

Siris sat back up as Alais asked her question, Elix and Lyanna preoccupied with themselves as he glanced down at them. "It will be passed to Vex, she's proven herself capable in my eyes." He exhaled softly before adding, "Now we'll just see if the mask will accept her or break her the moment she wears it." It dragged on his mind slightly that he was passing on a weight as such as that to Vex, enough to completely drown her if she let it. But Siris shook his head slightly before turning to look at Alais again, a smile forming, "But enough about that, it's time for just our family. I've been dreaming of just us for a long time now."

 

[Andraste]

Andraste watched with mild amazement as Siris showed affection for Lyanna. Him putting aside his differences with Cregan for her was a big step, and she admired it. The baby reached out to his face, her little hands running over the beard and stubble on his face. Elix grumpily shook his head at Siris’ comment about their eyes, “No! I want daddy and me to have the same eyes! I want red eyes!” He excitedly squirmed as he was toppled over and pulled close to Siris. Andraste sighed at the words, knowing it was tough to combat the realities of the paths they chose and exposing the children to them.

She couldn’t help but chuckle as Elix made a solemn promise to take care of his sister, an eyebrow quirking at Siris’ words, “I’m not that scary, am I?” She grinned, her personality vastly different with her family than she ever was with anyone else. Andraste listened as Siris explained that the mask would pass to Vex. She knew Vex, and the woman had become quite an asset to the empire. The mask, however, was a punishment for anyone that took it. Would Vex see it as a big step in her life path or would she succumb to it?

“I would trust her on my council,” Andraste muttered, thinking about Vex, “She has been very reliable,” She glanced at Siris, knowing that the passing of the mask to someone else bothered him. She reached a hand over and gently ran her fingers through his hair, “We have to make decisions we don’t like in order to stick to what’s really important,” She reassured him. Andraste didn’t miss that he tried to get off the topic at once, and she didn’t press it any further.

She opened her mouth to say something but Elix cut in, “Daddy, when can I learn lightsabers? Mommy won’t let me play and thinks sabers are stupid,” He stuck his tongue out at Andraste, who could only laugh, before turning back to Siris, “You will teach me!!”

 

[Siris Drast]

Siris was glad and sad to hear that Alais supported his choice of Vex. He hoped he was making just a bigger deal then it was and Vex could handle the mask like it was nothing. But deep down he already knew, the mask could kill her the moment she wore it and the only time he would find out is if he ever saw Vex again. He felt Alais run her fingers through his hair and Siris closed his eyes, tilting his head into her touch as he savored the tiny feeling. He didn't feel the need to talk about it anymore, enough was sad and the prospect of saying how valuable and good Vex was didn't appeal to him when he knew what was going to happen.

Siris opened his eyes once more, catching Alais about to say something before glancing down at Elix when he called out Alais for trying to install her fighting style into him. The pleasantries slipped from Siris' face and he arched his eyebrow before directing it to his wife, "Um, lightsabers are not stupid. I don't know where Mommy got such a silly idea like that." This was something they were polar opposite on, Siris always preferring to be close and use his blades to do his damage. They've had tiny arguments about it before but they were never going to see the same on that. Both of them were too stubborn to admit that they would. Siris stuck out his tongue to Alais too before turning his head to Elix and picking him up once more, "I'm sure we can arrange for you getting one. It's only appropriate for a mighty Sith to have his signature weapon." Elix smiled before looking over to Alais, "I need my sword, Mommy!"

When asked if he would teach him, Siris laughed softly, "As much we all know how lightsabers aren't stupid here, you'll still have to ask Mom." Siris lifted Elix up so that his head covered most of Siris' and making it appear like Elix was talking, "Can we please train Mommy? We love you." Their son outstretched his arms, gripping onto Alais' biceps and squeezing them, "Come on Mommy, I want to learn! You can watch us!" Elix was pleading hard and Siris peeked his head above Elix's as he held him up and arched an eyebrow at Alais, letting her deal with their son purposefully.

 

[Andraste]

Andraste’s eyebrows rose as Siris blatantly called her out for her ideas. Was he really going to argue about this here? Game on, if so. She crossed her arms over her chest, rolling her eyes, “Mommy is strong and powerful and doesn’t let anyone get close enough to use their silly sabers,” She snickered, recalling many battles where she had taken down her enemies before they could ever close the distance. Andraste’s strengths lied in the Force, and she had a strict command of it by now.

She turned in the middle of her little speech to see Siris also sticking his tongue out. Andraste gasped in disbelief, taking a nearby pillow and whacking him on the face with it. This greatly amused Elix, who wasn’t used to seeing his parents being around so much or being playful with one another. His experiences mostly consisted of Siris being exhausted from being away and withdrawn because of the Eternal, and Andraste being irritated due to his absence. Andraste was smiling more than she had in a very long time.

Andraste set Lyanna slightly further down on the bed to keep her away from Elix’s flailing limbs. The little girl could sleep through anything at this point. Andraste turned in time to see Siris holding Elix up and acting as if he were talking. She began to laugh then, shaking her head, “That’s not even fair!” Elix was giggling through it, playing along and looking expectantly at her.

“Fine….but only if I can do this,” She reached out and tickled Elix viciously, making him burst into a fit of giggles and squirm around in Siris’ arms, “Nooooo! Stop mommyyyy! Daddy help!” Andraste scooped him up and kissed his cheek, using the Force to levitate him into the air and float him. It was one of his favorite activities, and she spun him upside down, which was his favorite.

“See, you can only do that with the Force, not stupid swords,” She gave a sly look at Siris to challenge him to the debate, scooting closer to him now that Elix wasn’t between them.