Ask Nebulous Intentions

Alyse Ti'Varnus

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Stirring with a slight murmur, the ashen blonde hesitantly opened her eyes just slightly, partly out of reflex but mostly just to determine where about in the day the ship's automated lighting cycle was at. After several months now? of travelling into the depths of the unknown regions, the ship was now gradually making it's way back home to Bakura, and to help ease the transition back to planetary life the ashen blonde had reconfigured the ship's day cycle so that it was inline with that of Salis D'aar's time zone, so that she and the Zeltron could get their sleeping cycles back in synch. From what Alyse could tell from the brief glimpse it was approximately early morning, soon enough for them to start their day. A light smile curled on her lips as she felt the warmth of the Zeltron behind her, as well as the soft breath against the back of her neck, Closing her eyes Alyse eased herself backwards a little to press up close of her partner, her hand reaching for the Zeltron's and interlocking her fingers. Enjoying the closeness and warmth for a few moments longer, before eventually with a hesitant sigh, Alyse's drive and need to be busy kicked in.

Curling her fingers around Kori's hand, the ashen blonde, pulled the purple hued hand closer to her, before lightly kissing the back of the Zeltron's hand. "Come on, time to get up" Alyse spoke as she parted her lips from her partner's hand, and releasing her hold on it, before easing back the covers and sliding herself out of bed with a yawn and a stretch. Stepping over towards the porthole, the ashen blonde narrowed her gaze as she starred out into the black void that surrounded their craft, leaning forwards a little to get a closer look at a bright blue nebulous cloud that hung to the side of the ship's current course. Turning her attention round to the Zeltron, a light smirk curled on her lips as she watched her partner stir out of her sleep, standing there her pale alabaster flesh washed with the blue light being radiated from the Nebula for a few moments, before bending over to pull out a simple linen tunic to cover her naked state, followed by a hair band to pull her hair into a tight bun. "If you're quick you might see the nebula" Alyse spoke once she had finished tying her hair into place.

Pacing her way around the perimeter of the room, Alyse lightly shook her head in amusement as the Zeltron continued to stir, stopping for a moment to gather up some fresh clothing and bundling them over her arm, before casting one more amused glance at her partner before opening the door to the adjoining living space. "I'll throw some caff into the pot" Alyse called out before increasing the lights brightness a little so to prevent Kori from falling back asleep, and then stepping out of view into the living space. Headed over at first to the Kitchen area to set up the Caff dispenser and then leaving it to brew whilst the ashen blonde made use of the facilities and sonic shower within the ship's refresher.
 

Nykoria Tallis

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Kori used to be an early riser. Back on Ajan Kloss, come hell or high water, the Zeltron would wake up with the sun and do her daily exercises. Once Nykoria was out there in the galaxy, things changed: every planet had its own time, and there were times when the Jedi was thrown into the thick of it. There wasn't exactly room for exercises aboard, say, a luxury yacht with diplomats talking shop. Her time in captivity and later aboard a small scout ship didn't help her training regimen either. So, over time the Zeltron had got used to waking up late. The recent change of ship's lighting cycle didn't help; nor did the events of the previous day, that had left the Zeltron exhausted both physically and ethereally. Even if Kori would say that it was totally worth it.

The "it" was the warmth pressing against her body; the unusual ease, as if her hand moved by itself; a warm and ticklish feeling that spread from the back of her hand and throughout her body. Still mostly asleep, Kori let out a content hum and tried to hold the fuzzy warmth, that despite her best effort—which didn't amount to much, given the Zeltron's exhaustion—escaped her grasp. With an invitation to wake up, no less. That offer was met by a not-so-content hum by the purple-skinned woman; and yet, hazel eyes opened wearily, tracing the alabaster figure as she made her way towards the porthole.

Alyse would find the Zeltron lying on the back now, trying to find the escaped warmth in the sheets that still had traces of her presence. A content hum indicated that at least for a moment, the woman succeeded. Whatever nebula was being discussed, it had nothing on the lingering aftertaste of the previous night... Something that Alyse could have preserved, if she had just stayed there a little while longer.

Alas, the ship's lighting had a different idea. It evoked a grumpy scowl and a grunt; one hand had to let go of the sheets and cover the eyes. The extra movements ruined the sweet drowsiness, making the Zeltron sit up in the bed, not minding the falling sheets. Only the promise of caf made Kori concede. "Yeah, I'll ee 'igh ouah," she replied loudly through the yawn as Alyse called out to her.

The Zeltron would soon emerge out of Alyse's quarters, covered only by a couple of towels she could find in Alyse's quarters—after all, Kori had spent her time elsewhere for the most of the journey, and so had her garments. Seeing that the refresher was still occupied, Kori would take the time to pour some ready caf into the cups on the table. Alyse would find the Zeltron sitting at the table, staring at the blue light of the nebula through the ship's transparisteel window.

"Did we have to get up that early?" Nykoria tilted her head to the side as the hazel eyes pierced the blonde. Unlike Alyse, Kori hadn't attended to her hair yet—most of the time was spent on finding the towels in the quarters where she had never been before—so the indigo hair was clotted, falling freely on the purple shoulders and slightly below. A teasing smirk formed on her lips: "I thought I was supposed to rest up, especially after last night."
 
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Alyse Ti'Varnus

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With a light click the door to the refresher slid open revealing the ashen haired woman as she stepped out of the cubicle, a warm smile curling on Alyse's lips as caught sight of her now awake partner sat at the table nursing a cup of caff. Her hands tending to the fasteners of her top, as she made her way into the the living quarters, a smile curling on her lips as Kori questioned her whether they had to get up as early as they had done. The smile twisting into a wry smirk as the Zeltron added that she was under the impression she should be resting up after the previous night, letting out a light chuckle Alyse closed the distance between the two.

A hand moving to the side of Zeltron's head, fingers opening to brush through her partner's indigo locks of hair. "If I recall correctly, it was you who got amorous again in the middle of the night" Alyse teased as she eased her hand towards Kori's cheek, running her thumb gently back and forth, before leaning in for an affectionate kiss, as their lips connected, passionate images from the previous night flashed though her mind "Though I certainly don't have any complaints about that" she added with a soft whisper as a warm smile lingered on her features after their lips parted, followed by another long but lingering caress of the indigo locks of hair before the blonde stepped away and moved towards the empty seat and proceeded to sit down.

Picking up the second cup of Caff, Alyse brought the black liquid up to her face taking a deep sniff of the rich aroma of the caffeinated beverage, savouring it for a moment before taking a sip of the hot beverage. "We're probably just a few days away now till we get home, as tempting as it would be to spend the hours wrapped in your embrace" Alyse spoke with a light grin and a playful wink as her chestnut hued gaze panned over her partner's towel clad body, before taking another sip from her beverage, "We really should be starting to get into a routine" the blonde added as she leaned a little over the table, a hand reaching out to take Kori's, appreciating that whilst for the time being she wanted to cherish every moment she had to her to embrace the connection between them being enhanced through physical contact - there was the unfortunate inevitability that as soon as they returned to the public eye, such displays of affection would need to be kept behind closed doors.

Her gaze shifted over towards the transparisteel window of the compartment, regarding the blue gaseous anomaly with a curious expression, her freehand wrapping around the circumference of the cup as she held it close to her lips periodically sipping at the hot beverage as she gazed into the blue cloud. "It is quite the sight isn't it?" Alyse questioned as she turned her gaze away from the sapphire hued nebula back towards Kori. ”The Queluhan Nebula, well at least I think it is. Apparently the Imperial remnant hid in there to regroup it's navy after the empire fell" she added, offering what she knew of the anomaly,
 
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Nykoria Tallis

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As always, the touch made Nykoria move her head a little, to rub against Alyse's alabaster palm. Kori was about to protest the blonde's remark and claim that Alyse herself didn't seem to oppose the attention. Even though it was technically a half-truth: there was little time for the blonde to protest—not that she'd want to in the first place—and the Zeltron pheromones combined with the bond that the two shared in the Force meant that no words were needed. "Of course you don't," Kori's reply to Alyse's concession was in the same whisper, and with a cheeky grin to boot.

The Governor's explanation, however, was... tolerable at best. A few days away from Bakura were still a few days they could leave to themselves; there was always a chance to get into the groove after they were back on the planet. Especially since the blonde now shared the thoughts that Kori had voiced a while ago: all good things would come to an end, their "free-of-all-troubles honeymoon" included. So why waste it?

Still, those thoughts didn't escalate into anything open. Especially when the blonde reached for Kori's hand, making whatever hints of frustration fade away. It didn't make the Zeltron agree with Alyse; but nonetheless, she forced a smile on her face and nodded, accepting that although it might not have been important for Kori, it was important for the Governor. And in that moment, that's what mattered. "Yeah, it's better than the hours of embrace becoming the routine," the Zeltron replied with a degree of encouragement, taking her cup of caf with the free hand and taking a sip.

The discussion shifted to the blue nebula that the ship was heading towards. Unlike Alyse, Nykoria wasn't as well-versed in history; so the mention of the nebula serving as a hideout of the remnant of the Galactic Empire was new to her. "Makes sense; pirates make use of nebulae and asteroid fields as well," the Zeltron shrugged. "Asteroids hinder pursuit and allow you to disappear, so they're a nice retreat route. And nebulae mess with the scanners so much that you'd have a hard time to find anyone, unless you know where you're going or fly right by them."

That elaboration was not only to keep up the conversation, but also to prove the Governor of Bakura that she hadn't picked a complete slouch for the "military-advisor-slash-hand-of-the-governor" gig. Something that resurfaced again at the mention of the Navy, and was going to become a big part of Kori's future job. But, determined to steer the topic elsewhere, Nykoria finished her caf and headed over to the sink with the empty cup. "If you ever wanted to disappear from the rest of the world with some Zeltron, this nebula would be a good place. As long as you've got supplies."
 

Alyse Ti'Varnus

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A bright smile crossed the blondes features as she nodded in response to Kori's elaboration on the use of nebulas and asteroid fields by Raiders and Pirates. Indicating the tactical advantages that each of the two astrological objects provided for those that would seek to capitalise on their use. For someone who initially questioned her suitability and even had concerns that she would potentially put Alyse in a negative light for appointing Kori into the position she was envisioning for her, the Zeltron displayed enough of a sound understanding to warrant and justify the Governor's belief and confidence in her partner's capabilities.

As the Zeltron finished her Caff and retreated to the sink, the Ashen blonde nursed her cup with both hands, sipping at the warn beverage, before raising her gaze up towards Kori as she spoke about even just using the nebula to disappear from the galaxy with a particular Zeltron. A wide grin curled on her features, barely visible from behind the outline of the cup, coupled with an inquisitive arch of the blondes brow line. Her thoughts turned to just how insatiable Kori seemed, the earlier expression and conveyed longing to spend the rest of the journey in eachother s embrace, the subtle reluctance and air of possible frustration that loomed around her partner. Was this typical of Jedi? For the most basic natural needs and desires to be repressed and wound so taught, that as soon the seal was eventually broken, they became addicted to the desires that they had been suppressing throughout their lives. Especially for a species such as the Zeltron's who were widely known for being highly influenced by sexuality and their pursuit of pleasure.

With a final gulp, the train of thought concluded and left the blondes mind as the warm liquid washed down her throat. Following suit with the Zeltron, Alyse got to her feet and made her way over to the kitchen to at first place her emptied cup into the sink, before firmly pulling the Zeltron's body close against her own. A arm wrapping around her partner's waist, whilst the opposite arm raised to reach, draw and hold Kori's head close to hers, before sharing a long and passionate kiss with her partner. If this was just part of what the Zeltron was desired, then Alyse wasn't going to outright deny Kori that in favour of the strict routine and regimen that the Ashen blonde had lived by - maybe postpone what the Zeltron was craving, just for the time being, but for now hopefully she could at least give her partner enough of a taste to look forward to later in the day.

Once the passionate kiss was eventually broken, the ashen blonde, smiled warmly at her partner, as her hand moved from the back of Koris head and gently running through the indigo locks of hair. "Well at least we can mark it's location and course for future use, should we need to retreat to the nebula for some alone time" Alyse whispered, as her fingers teased and coiled a lock of the Zeltron's hair around them. The governor's eyes moving away from meeting Kori's, towards the indigo hair that was running through her fingers, a warm smile lingering on her features for a few moments more before her attention returned to Kori once again. "But for now, We've got a nebula to try and safely navigate around, just incase there are any hidden dangers" Alyse resumed, with her typical driven air around her.

Though despite the usual air and attitude that the Governor carried herself with, there was a slight glint in her eyes. The nature of which being evidenced when Alyse eased her head so that her lips were right next to Kori's ear. "And once we're safely through the nebula, all there will be is a long clear path to Bakura" Alyse whispered slowly and softly into the Zeltron's ear, before lightly biting at the tip of her ear lobe. "I'm sure we may find that will be points that we would need to find ways to keep ourselves occupied during the final stretch" she added after letting go the the ear lobe, before then drawing her head back a little to look into the Zeltron's eyes with a flash of a mischievous grin .
 
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Nykoria Tallis

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First Kori's cup was in the sink. Then another joined. And then, before the Zeltron could say a word, she was quickly and resolutely turned around and pulled close, her expression of surprise muffled by the blonde's lips. An unexpected development, given that Alyse seemed to be amused by the plethora of displays of affection; but not an unwelcome one. Caught off-guard for a moment, the Zeltron's hand soon wrapped around the blonde's lower back.

Hazel eyes followed the alabaster palm as it played with Zeltron's indigo hair; a soft whisper responding to Kori's earlier remark; and a resolute "later", which Kori respected. But before she could reply, there was another change. Alyse leaned in once again, and what she did and said next sent goosebumps down Kori's arms and spine. If building up anticipation was what the blonde was going for, there was nothing she could've done better.

"Ok..." the Zeltron replied quietly, meeting her gaze. "You handle the steering and navigation. I'll do the dishes, freshen myself up, and get dressed." Mischief slowly made way to her smile as well, as Kori's hands slid lower, lingering for a while. A playful remark followed: "And once we're through the nebula, I'll sabotage the hyperdrive." Only then would Nykoria let go of her partner and turn around to the sink, presuming that the blonde would play along with the plan.

And the plan was simple: wash the cups; find and prep some fresh clothes in the locker in the living area; make use of the refresher and the sonic shower that the blonde had occupied earlier.
 

Alyse Ti'Varnus

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As the building anticipation escalated between the two partners, the blonde perhaps might have regretted pushing things a little too far in her bid to leave Kori something to tide her over. The passionate kiss, the tight longing embrace, the immediate proximity to the Zeltron's scent, Kori's scantly towel clad state, the sensation of Koris hands running over her back working their way down to her buttocks. The original intention to navigate through the nebula, then return to sharing the rest of the journey in Kori's close embrace as much as possible whilst on paper made sense, in practice however it was taking a lot of restraint to not give into the desires that was resonating between them through their bond. If they were playing a game of chicken, she certainly would have flinched

Fortunately before their desire could reach fever pitch, Kori conceded for the plan, offering to do the dishes get freshened up and dressed. Then suggesting she would attempt to sabotage the ships hyperdrive. A light smirk curled on her lips at the thought of it, but the smirk phased into a light smile as she nodded to the resolution. Giving her partner one last squeeze, before she broke her hold and embrace of the Zeltron. "Sounds good" Alyse spoke, as she took a step backwards. "I'll leave you to it then, I'll see you at the helm soon" she added before taking another slow step back, before turning on her heel and making her way to the ships cockpit.

Stopping as she was just about to cross through the threshold into the cockpit, Alyse looked over her shoulder, back towards the Zeltron for a moment, a wide smile curling on her features as she watched the Zeltron tend to the two cups, before turning her attention back to the cockpit. Sitting down at the pilots seat, the ashen blonde called up the star charts for a few moments, tracking the course they currently were on and following the route for potential adjustments so make their passing through the nebula more efficient, the sooner they were through the sooner they can switch back to autopilot.

With a new trajectory mapped out, the governor took the ship back into manual control, and banked the ship to the side a little, making a slight adjustment, before closing her eyes and taking a deep breath as she started to focus and channel the force through her, in preparation for when the ships sensors and scanning equipment go haywire as soon as they pass enter the nebula. The last thing she would want is to then fly head first into an asteroid.
 
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Nykoria Tallis

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If Alyse wanted to postpone the fun part until later, she sure picked a strange way to go about it. A teasing kiss was on the verge of escalating into something more, had it not been for Alyse's restraint—something that got passed along to Kori, but also tickled the anticipation. So much so, that the blonde didn't even have anything to say about the prospect of the hyperdrive being sabotaged. One could think that she went along with the idea.

Twenty minutes later, the Zeltron would rejoin the Governor in the cockpit, wearing the dark-blue tunic and grey pants. An outfit somewhat reminiscent of her Jedi days, if it weren't made of lighter and softer materials than the ordinary woolen Jedi robes. "Reporting for duty, boss," the light-hearted remark rang across the cockpit. However, the shifts in the Force made the playfulness evaporate before Kori could finish her announcement. The last thing she needed was to distract her partner.

So instead, the Zeltron simply landed in the co-pilot's seat, stretching herself, palms behind the back of her head. After a moment, she'd settle in, focusing on her surroundings and taking in the information from all her senses, physical and ethereal. The nebula now occupied the entirety of the view: growing ever closer, hiding the stars behind it, impenetrable to the ship's sensors. The Zeltron took a deep breath as she ship entered the clouds, the blue becoming darker as they proceeded. They were now flying blind. And the Zeltron now had more reasons to wish that they were through the nebula, other than sabotaging the ship's hyperdrive.
 

Alyse Ti'Varnus

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Even though the Zeltron's entrance and remark was met with silence, or even the slightest hint of a visual acknowledgement. The ashen blonde's reaction was still present, a flare off warmth in the Force could be felt as Kori sat down in the seat beside her. But otherwise Alyse yielded little other reaction, her attention and focus was set purely on the task at hand, channeling the Force through her, reaching out into the space around them, and making adjustments to their course. Effectively becoming a Force attuned autopilot of sorts.

The ship continued to move deeper into the blue miasma like cloud, banking left a little before the nose if the ship dropped down, a few moments before a large jagged shilouette of an asteroid came into view and passing harmlessly over the ship. For a further while this was how Thier path through the Nebula continued, adjustments to the ships angle and direction, followed by the outline of geological formations, debris or long lost and possibly jettisoned cargo moving into view and then out if sight.

Whether it was just the eerie blue of the nebula cloud, or the near total silence of the blonde - who only made light breathing sounds, of the light creak and strain of the control yoke being manipulated in her grasp. That had it not been for the circumstance they had found themselves in, the silence was almost as if it were reminiscent of the palpable tension that hung between the two when they first started this journey.

The ashen blonde however did break the silence, not long after her brow furrowed. "There is something big ahead of us" Alyse spoke, as the ship was pulled into a deeper dive. But unlike the previous times the ship had altered it's angle there did not seem to be any levelling off. "It's no use, can you see anything? Or should we turn back" she questioned, shortly before a large wedge like shilouette could be seen in through the cloudlike haze.
 

Nykoria Tallis

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The tension and silence were there alright. Except that they were for a different reason. Where there was mistrust and wariness on the way to the Unknown Regions, there was now "passenger's anxiety" on the way back. For Kori too was reaching out with the Force; but unlike Alyse, she couldn't do anything, except for sensing the debris and asteroids and their course relative to the ship. Sometimes that course changed slower than Kori would've preferred, making the purple fingers hold on tighter to the armrests of the seat. Especially when she sensed something big moments after Alyse said it.

The further in they went, the darker the cloud became, and the harder it was to rely on visuals, let alone the scanners. Turning back and flying around was the most logical option... Except that there was another object on a collision course with them. Putting them between the rock and a hard place. "No, pull up 20 and full speed ahead!" the Zeltron replied, her anxiety growing with the proximity of the asteroids. Multiple asteroids. All floating around the giant wedge. "There's a cavern! We'll be safe there."

Kori's coordinates would guide the scout ship into a wide rectangular crevice, filled by the clouds of inky blue. "Now, slow down, there's a wall up ahead!" Should Alyse slow down in time and turn on the headlights, she'd see that the wall of them was clearly metallic in nature. Through the darkness and the cloud of blue, something akin to the railing could be seen. And... a catwalk?

The Zeltron would exhale and wipe her forehead. Aftrer a while, she'd have the time and nerve to examine the view. "That looks... oddly familiar," she'd add quietly, reminiscing of her time as a Jedi. Particularly the battle of Ryloth. "Almost like a ship hangar."
 
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Alyse Ti'Varnus

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Nodding in acknowledgement the ashen blonde, complied with the change in course and direction being offered by the Zeltron - after all even if the two were not in the relationship that they currently had with one another, she would not look to counter the suggestion given the potential perilous situation they had found themselves in. Taking the directions given by her partner, Alyse pulled back on the yoke, pulling them into a sharp climb whilst her hand manoeuvred for the throttle to open the engines up - allowing for them to miss the debris that was threatening to catch their flank.

The governor's eyes narrowed as the ship manoeuvred into the dark void that lay ahead of them, her hand slowly easing back on the throttle and and pulling their ship into a gradual crawl so that they can take the opportunity to assess their present situation. Her eyes narrowing as she caught sight of a metallic reflection from the ships navigation lights, giving cause for her to purse her lips in thought for a moment before turning on the ship's flood lights. As soon as the capacitators charged the area around them was bathed in a bright light, that cut through the darkness of the aperture they had navigated into and the miasmic cloud of the nebula, throwing light onto the long dormant interior of what appeared to be a ship of sorts.

With a long exhale the ashen blonde, eased her connection to the Force, allowing her to return her sight back to the visual rather than through the ethereal. Her brow furrowing as she took in the sight ahead of her, before turning her attention to Kori for a moment ,as she commented that it looked oddly familiar, the blondes mind ran over everything that had presented itself, the large almost near impassable wedge, the hanger like cavern they had now found themselves within, the rumoured history of the Nebula itself - and the symbol the of Galactic empire emblazened on the surface of the hanger wall, illuminated by the floodlight as the ship panned itself around within the cavern. "An imperial Star destroyer" Alyse muttered as she continued to move the ship around it's axis. her eyes looking for a docking port.

"Not something that I imagine you would want to have looming over us should we ever choose to hide here" Alyse commented as her eyes set upon a docking ring, and proceeded to navigate the ship towards it "But then again" she added thoughtfully, before aligning the ship up with the docking port. "Not an unwelcomed surprise" She added before turning her attention to the Zeltron beside her. "There should be some environmental equipment and suits in one of the lockers near the galley. If you would be so kind" the governor spoke, with a light smile and a familar glint in her eyes that gave indication that something was formulating in her mind. "If this relic is in sound enough condition, its parts and materials can be salvaged and go towards bolstering the BDF's fleet" Alyse added in explanation before the ship shuddered as it locked with the ISD's docking port. "but beyond that there may well be more than scrap material this ship contains" she added before powering down the ship's engines and swinging her seat around so to better view her partner.
 

Nykoria Tallis

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An Imperial Star Destroyer. That explained a lot. The hangar bay seemed much like the one that Nykoria and her team had boarded during the battle of Ryloth. They had ended up little more than distraction that day, but at least a Sith assault was averted. "You're right, 'looming over us' isn't my thing. I'd take a spot on the bridge though," the Zeltron mused, envisioning what it would be like: to hide on a derelict instead of a small scout ship. "Though oxygen would sure help."

Alyse, however, had a different idea. Admittedly, a sound one. "The logical part of me understands your decision," the military advisor admitted. "But a part of me protests at tearing down a historical monument..." the Jedi continued, as a carefree smirk started forming on her lips. "... Or a perfect playground." As sharp-tongued as she was, Jedi or Cadet Nykoria Tallis would never have said that. This time, it was just Kori.

"Environmental suits, you say?" she asked, standing up from her seat and taking a step towards the exit from the cockpit. "So much for dressing up..." Kori paused briefly, her head half-turning over to her partner to look at her over the shoulder. "Care to help me slip into one of the suits?"

***​

It wouldn't be long before the Zeltron would be standing outside the ship. A bulky environment suit with magboots being the only thing separating her from the cloudy void that filled the once-proud Imperial vessel. And the only weapon being Alyse's DL-18 attached to her hip.

So, any suggestions what places we should check out first? The question wasn't voiced, but rather thought Kori. Bridge is interesting, but utlikely to yield any results. The armory or the cargo hold are a more likely option. Or the power plant, to see if any systems work, and if we can pull any data.
 

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Pursing her lips in thought as she turned to face her partner, hearing the Zeltron's thoughts, almost telepathically. A slight glimmer of s smile tugged at her contemplative expression, preferring to hear Kori's voice this way rather than over the crackling static of the environment suits. The distorted audio and mic checks as they put on their respective suits, was more than enough, to sway the preference towards communicating through their bond. //The power plant might be the best option, if we can get the primary and life support systems running, we can possibly do away with these suits// the ashen blonde thought in response to Kori's earlier thoughts. Alyses attention soon shifted to her surroundings, twin beams of light projected from her helmet darting back and forth as she tried to lay sight on a deal plan or even and indicator of where they where in the ship.

// The main reactor core I think was to the aft of the ship, but I seem to remember something about an emergency power being located at the front of the ship // Alyse resumed in her mind, as she continued to look for even the simplest indicator of where they were. Shrugging a little, the Ashen blonde figured if nothing was obviously visible then they would have to venture deeper into the ship, So that the pair can get their bearings.

Passing through the blast door that connected the hanger space they had docked with, Alyse turned her attention up and down the empty corridors, looking for any signage that would help lead them to where the auxiliary power plant is located. The twin beams of light pointing up from one end of the corridor down to the other, before eventually setting upon through a deck plan. Alyses eyes narrowing as she wiped off the build up of grime with her gloves hand, brow furrowed as she tried to make out the grime filled Imperial Arubesh engraving on the signage. //We are approximately here, the reserve generators are two decks down in that direction// Alyse thought aloud as she turned her attention to her partner, a hand gesturing at the deck plan, before her brow furrowed as she then went to re read the signage. //But we have to go that way, then up first?// She added, before her thoughts became a jumble of grumbled words, mostly centering around; idiotic, Map, ship design, no use to anyone. - Giving Bakuran Shipyards their due, at least their capital ship designs made sense and were easy to follow, unlike the perceived need to travel backwards and upwards , only so the could then travel in the opposite direction to reach their destination.

Turning back round Alyse headed with Kori in tow, at first back towards the aft of the ship, before then ascending three flights of stairs. Finally headed to the ships bow, following the route that would take them up from the shuttle and lander hanger section, into another large and cavernous chamber. The beams of light tracking upwards slightly at the sight of large metallic feet Infront of them, the helmet torchlight tracking up along the articulated legs, along the underside of a large torso, before resting upon the vehicles 'head' with its twin side mounted cannons looking down towards the two.

As much as the Governor, perhaps in her youth seemed to think based on the cumbersome footage and images of the war walkers, likening them to Eopies, but standing with the walker looming above you, it's cabin and weapons illuminated by the head lights of her helmet. There was definitely cause to retract the comparison, lowering her case, and sweeping throughout the chamber, the ashen blonde counted approximately eight sets of the large walkers feet, and a perhaps double or maybe triple that in pairs of shorter and spindlier sets of legs. //Not something that would have expected to be left on a derelict ship// Alyse though aloud as she looked towards the Zeltron beside her, whether it was just all that had transpired on this venture to the unknown regions, but there was a growing suspicion that something was off, the Star destroyer, despite the grime build up appeared to be in a sound and even well stocked condition which beggared the question why was this ship abandoned?

 

Nykoria Tallis

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I wouldn't get my hopes up. To think that the power plant of the derelict Imperial ship would still be functioning after all these centuries would be a stretch. But then again, what did the duo stand to lose? It was worth a shot. And yet, Kori wouldn't be Kori if she didn't see an opportunity when she had one. For the power plant, not for doing away with the suits.

The Star Destroyer was indeed akin to the one Kori had seen at Ryloth. The layout seemed mostly the same, so when Alyse inspected the deck plan and suggested the direction, the Zeltron just nodded. Alyse's mounting frustration over the path they had to take was becoming obvious. Hey, at least we get to see more of this place that way.

And that they did. The path brought the two into a giant chamber, apparently a storage for combat walkers. For all her experiences, Nykoria had never seen one first-hand. And now she and Alyse were standing next to one. It put things into perspective: the lights could only catch out parts of the awe-inspiring machines, and even the smaller walkers dwarfed the Jedi and the Sith.

Depends. The Zeltron reacted to Alyse's remark. If the ship got damaged beyond repair and got evacuated, they might not have had the chance to retrieve the walkers before the vessel was lost in the nebula. That, at leas,t, seemed like the most logical explanation. But then again, if it were to be abandoned, wouldn't the Imperials have set the vessel and the military assets that they couldn't bring with them to self-destruct?

And yet, the doubts were there. If there's still juice in this thing, the bridge will grant access to the ship log. Might shed some light on this.
 

Alyse Ti'Varnus

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Pursing her lips in thought at the plausible suggestion made by the suited Zeltron, the Ashen Blonde's nods being exaggerated by the sudden upward and downward movement of her helmet's projected torchlight. Eventually the nodding subsided as the Governor turned her attention and gaze towards Kori, but being sure to keep the projected torch light away from being directed straight into her partner's eyes. //Well lets keep our fingers crossed// Alyse offered lightly, sensing that there was some lingering doubt within her companion - figuring that out of the pair of them Kori was the better suited to bring levity to situations, Alyse would attempt to try and do likewise, even if she lacked the Zeltron's execution.

Casting one last look around the large hold, taking another brief look at the intimidating yet awe inspiring sight of being stood so close to one of the lumbering walkers. Before the ashen haired human, gestured to Kori that they should perhaps make a move and continue further into the ship and towards the back up power stores. Her eyes intently following looking over the corridor, keeping an eye out for any signs of any damage that Kori had hinted towards. // Whilst I'm sure the ship yards can make use of alot of this craft// Alyse spoke out into the back of her partner's mind, as she cocked her head to the side slightly. // What would your take be on recovering those walkers? I don't think it would convey the right message to the populace if they were re-commissioned for Military use, re-purposed for mining operations perhaps// she continued airing her current train of thought.

As useful and perhaps as iconic as the walkers may be, if they were to be successfully recovered by the salvage operation. Their use on Bakura, even their presence would likely illicit unwarranted attention as well as casting the wrong impression for the civilians, bringing back the sentiment of imperial occupation. Something that would undo the state of stability that the Sith Lord has brought about since her assuming the position of planetary Governor, yet then again to have some heavy military assets held in reserve to defend Bakura and her Allies would be advantageous.

But that was all weighted on whether they could recover the star destroyer in the first place, regardless of whether this ship was damaged, Kori had raised a pertinent point, about the craft being lost in the nebula. Making all these plans for the salvage operation of the relic warship, but it all was dependant on the fact that as soon as they departed the system and returned back to Bakura, and by the time that the salvage ships would reach the star destroyer, what was not to say that it had drifted further into the nebula away from its current location.

//Perhaps so that we don't loose this ship, we should look out for some navigation buoys to deploy whilst we leave the nebula?"// Alyse queried as they descended down the flights of stairs that would take them down towards the forward engineering section of the ship. As the two stepped into the auxiliary power generator room, the ashen blonde turned her gaze around the large chamber, whilst it was perhaps just a big, if not larger than the hold that stored the walkers - the chamber was noticeably more crowded and densely packed. Large generators, power stores relays and all other manner of technical equipment and plant that the Governor would willingly admit to not being knowledgeable of.

What she was familiar with however was consoles, particularly the one that was sat ahead of them within the centre of the room. Her eyes narrowing as she caught sight of a few dimly glowing lights on the console, earning a light smile on her features at the prospect that there may yet be some life in the ship yet. Pressing on a few keys and buttons, the console screen flashed into life, allowing the blonde to cycle through the control system's menu. Her eyes narrowing as she read through the various options before eventually finding what she was after, and proceeded to follow the instructions being displayed on the screen.

With a loud shuddering sound, complimented with the vibration of the decking plate, the long dormant back up generators fired up, crackling arcs of energy cascading along the upper reactor conduits over head shortly followed by the room's interior lighting flickering into life. Looking towards the Zeltron, Alyse offered a bemused grin at their present fortune. // Looks like there's life in the old girl yet// she mused into the back of her partner's mind. Before turning her attention back to the console to cycle through the various systems that were now powering up, containment shields were back up and running, life support systems were re-initialising and the ship was steadily re-pressurising itself, expelling the nebulous haze from the interior.

A faint breeze could be felt rippling on their EV suits, as the internal atmosphere was purged and steadily replaced with a breathable environment. Though for the time being it would be best to keep the suits on for now, up until the console was reading that environmental conditions had returned to a safe normal.
 

Nykoria Tallis

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Finding the seemingly-undamaged walkers raised the obvious question: what to do with them? As a Jedi, Nykoria's suggestion would've been to just leave them be; she simply wouldn't have had the means to transfer them, or the resources to maintain them. But this time, Kori had to remind herself that she was with a planetary governor. Someone who wielded enough money and power to make retrieval possible. Perhaps the lengthy weeks aboard a scout ship, and the subsequent attachments made it hard fro the Zeltron to look at the blonde from that angle.

It also made sense that Alyse would have reservations about putting the walkers into active military service. You have a point: Bakura will have little use of these vehicles from the military standpoint, unless attacked. The walkers, towering over the battlefield and protected by thick armor, were a perfect attack tool, or a means to exert control and dissuade dissent. Neither of which seemed like what Bakura needed. And yet, they could prove a formidable defense. Mining? Sounds good. Construction too, maybe. Or hauling cargo. Ideally, anything that would allow you to strip them of guns, and reattach them quickly if Bakura is ever attacked.

But all of that made sense if they could find the ship afterwards. Whoever left this ship here, they probably tried something similar. We definitely should try leaving a beacon too. But the best way to track the ship down would be the Force. That'd avert the problems with systems going haywire due to the nebula. Unfortunately, I have no idea how to leave a mark that'd let me track it down later... Perhaps it would give Alyse some food for thought. She was the leader here, and Kori was ok with her making the ultimate decision. ... Still, best to figure out what happened to this ship first.

Kori accompanied her Governor throughout the ship, watching Alyse's back while the blonde fiddled with the console. The Zeltron's surprise at the lights flickering to life and the systems kicking in was almost palpable; Alyse would sense it without the words, through the bond alone. Kori couldn't but agree light-heartedly: Next thing you know, it is automated and run by droids. And a dinner for two is served on the bridge.

And yet, despite the levity, the Zeltron was still concerned: if the ship was in such a good condition, why had it been left? Could it be that someone was still making use of it? After all, even life support systems seemed to be working. A century-old ship with nobody home, and still working... Partly at least. Almost too good to be true. What now, the bridge?
 

Alyse Ti'Varnus

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A wide smile spread over the ashen blondes features as her partner quipped about the ship being automated and manned by droids, not only that but the fact that a meal would be sitting there waiting on their arrival on the bridge. The speakers of their EV suits built in Comms crackled with the sound of electronically distorted laughter. //As ideal as that sounds, I wouldn't want to risk any food that's been stored in this ship for over a century// Alyse mused back, before turning her attention back to the console, eyes narrowing as she read the current ETA of when the Imperial warship would be re-pressurised and the internal atmosphere safe enough for them to remove their protective suits.

Seeing that it would take another then to fifteen minutes until the ships air was breathable, the ashen blonde looked back to Kori as she questioned where to next, citing the bridge as a suggestion. // It certainly would be the best place to answer the questions we have around this ship// Alyse affirmed mentally before figuring that there was little point in lingering in the forward auxiliary reactor, where they could get a start on the long journey up to the ship's bridge. Going by the scale of the ship from the deck plan she had studied, she internally hoped that the transit lift car systems were at least partially operational - Otherwise it would be a very long walk indeed.

//But it is unusual, for a ship that's potentially over a century old, to remain in such a working and intact condition// Alyse did speak out through their bond, as she turned her gaze slightly to the side to glance at her partner. //Either this ship was just simply lost and ran adrift in a powered down state. Or maybe this ship was abandoned// she added before for a moment as she took a deep breath as she reached out with the Force to read for any scaring or wounds in the Force. //But if it was abandoned, it not under duress, I cannot feel any scars imprinted in the Force by death// she added before her expression became intensely pensive.

As the Zeltron would undoubtedly have learnt before there was nothing so frustrating to the ashen blonde, as finding herself with no answers but an ever mounting and increasing stack of questions. Even if the answers were the wrong ones, or ones that she never wanted to be true, the Governor could live with and be at ease with. How was this ship, still seemingly operational, why was it fully loaded with towering war walkers, what happened to the crew why did the leave when so far there are no signs of any struggle? All of them rattling around her mind, none of them looked like they were going to be answered anytime soon until they got to the bridge.

That was untill they started to round a corner that would take them to the internal rapid transit system, that they would perhaps get just a morsel of an answer to the mounting questions. Coming to a swift stop, the ashen blonde narrowed her gaze as she saw movement up ahead, but the movement from the shadowy figures ahead, were jerky, stiff and awkward. If she didn't know any better the Ashen blonde would have guessed that there were droids ahead of them - but the question was for now, for the governor of a world that has widely banned the presence of droids. //Droids ahead, any idea what kind they are?// The blonde questioned the Zentron, figuring that out of the two, Kori would have the most knowledge on the matter.
 

Nykoria Tallis

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It seemed that restoring the atmosphere to the breathable levels. Even if stored in perfect vacuum, I think I wouldn't risk a century-old food either. Still, despite the lighthearted thought and the lack of apparent threats. the questions were too many to ignore. Not to mention that Alyse was apparently even more concerned with what was going on, and it reflected on the Zeltron.

We haven't seen the bodies so far. A simple observation that had to be kept in mind; something that aligned well with the lack of any imprints of pain and suffering in the Force. The implications were numerous; they could depend on such facts as whether or not there were supplies aboard. Be on the lookout for food and whatnot. If it's missing, it could mean that the crew abandoned ship after exhausting supplies.

However, the path wouldn't take them through any storage areas: just the darkness, silent corridors, and one big mystery. That made the mechanical sound around the corner even more out of place. Even despite the poor lighting, Alyse determined by the outlines that they were droids. The exact models were hard even for Kori to determine; let alone Alyse, who had grown out on a planet that had all droids outlawed or heavily regulated.

The first thing that Kori's flashlight caught was something akin to an astromech: a smaller frame, tracks and a whirring servomotor. Alongside it stepped what appeared to be a protocol droid: a humanoid frame covered in black metal, with thin limbs. The light would catch out its hands, holding no weapons.

They don't look dangerous. Nykoria proceeded to step into the corridor, still holding the blaster pistol just in case. Meanwhile, the droids paid no attention to the duo, simply proceeding down the corridor and leaving the path to the transit system clear. To Kori's surprise, the control panel next to the entrance was live; a green light next to the button indicating that the tram was ready to take them to the back of the ship.

Once inside, Kori would let Alyse handle the controls and decide the destination. Leaning against the wall, she'd rub her forehead—only for the gloved hand to land unsatisfyingly on her own helmet's visor. Working droids would explain the ship being in such a good condition.
 

Alyse Ti'Varnus

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A light grin curled on the blonde's lips as she watched Kori motion to rub at her forehead, only for her to be reminded that she was still wearing an EV suit. Shaking her head in light amusement, Alyse then turned her attention to the transit carriage's controls. Her eyes narrowing as she tried to make out the the information being displayed on the read out screen, before using the heel of her glove to wipe the dust off of the screen, once a sliver of the screen was visible Alyse was able to then programme in the destination, before pressing on the flashing button and then taking a step back from the controls.

Leaning against the carriage's wall, as it started to shudder and vibrate, the sensation of acceleration pulling on hers and the Zeltron's body as the transit system built up speed and momentum, the elevated g-forces acting on their bodies subsided as the acceleration eased off and maintained a steady speed. Looking up to the suited Zeltron, the ashen blonde pursed her lips in thought as she mused on what they had just witnessed. The presence of the droids would certainly explain the ship's maintained condition, but something just wasn't sitting right.

Folding her arms as she sank deeper against the metal shell of the transit car, Alyse cocked her head to the side slightly. //It still doesn't sit right// the Governor mused, as she raised her gaze up to meet Kori's. //Imperial ships typically didn't have such a large compliment of Droids // she added as she closed her eyes and reached out with the Force, searching not for sentient life but just the concentration of artifical life moving about within the ship, her senses touching upon the flowing power as it ran through the various conduits of the ship, before blanking them out. Once the residual sensations of electricity running through the ship had been numbed out, the ashen blonde could sense a near countless number of droids moving about the ship, the sensations she was feeling being shared with her partner through their bond.

// A compliment of this volume, would surely have required a central processing hub to control the droids. The Empire would not normally have taken such a risk, especially if a single droid could be programmed with a virus that could be passed on to the rest of the units // she mused, before shaking her head again - alot of what they had witnessed just did not seem to add up nor did it make sense.

As the transit car started to decelerate, the ashen blonde raised up off against the wall in preparation for the carriage to come to a stop. With a sharp shudder the car came to a halt, before the doors slid open, revealing an empty bridge, the only signs of life coming from the flickering systems lights on the various consoles. Stepping through the door, Alyse cautiously looked around before turning to face Kori with a shrug. //Well no dinner for two by the looks of it//
 

Nykoria Tallis

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Nykoria responded to Alyse's amusement and the subtle movement of her helmet's light only with a soft sigh. Had it not been for their bond, then the Governor might not even have noticed the little mistake. But Kori's disappointment was too prominent for Alyse to just leave unnoticed. On the bright side, her amusement was also passed along to the Zeltron, somewhat alleviating the awkward feeling for making the mistake in the first place.

As the tram moved farther and farther from where the duo had left the ship—would they even be able to find it now?—the Jedi sensed more movement than just the corridors and sections passing by. It was Alyse who voiced (or rather, thought) the question that had been on the back of Kori's mind throughout their trip. Something doesn't add up.

When their transport reached the bridge, the blaster in the Zeltron's hand was raised once again. However, as the doors opened, the duo found themselves on an empty bridge. No bodies, no droids—just the silent hum of life support and auxiliary systems, and the small dim lights of the consoles. The dinner can wait until we get to the ship. Especially if you still have some of that ridiculously expensive wine I can waste on the meat.

But first things first: the duo had to find out just what they were dealing with. Blaster pistol in hand, Nykoria would approach one of the bridge consoles and hit a button. At first, it seemed like nothing changed. But then the screen flickered to life. To the Zeltron's surprise, there was no prompt for password or authorization; the monochrome holoscreen simply presented her with a series of command prompts. With just a few clicks, Kori could go through the latest log records, from newest to earlier...

Hmmm... All ship systems turned offline to preserve energy, only to be turned on automatically at regular intervals. And before that... Automated maintenance reports? Engine sabotaged, repairs at 82%. Weapons sabotaged, repairs at 73%... Life support systems restored... The crew has abandoned ship. Sabotage in the cargo hold, attempt to jettison "Imperial property", whatever that might be. And judging by the date... A few years after the Clone Wars? That's ancient.

The helmeted Zeltron turned her head to Alyse. Illuminated only by the flickering screen, Kori's expression couldn't be seen. But confusion was obvious. And just then, another report was added to a long wall of the log: "Engine repairs at 96%. Auxiliary systems restored, tractor beams operational."
 
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