#terristera

Kyradia made her way back onto her ship and took a deep breath she’d been doing a good job staying strong in the desert but she kept seeing flashes of Zash and that scene she saw, she shook it off and walked over to the table with Malora and Ashara, Malora began messing with some contraption.

Kyradia sighed “so Zash has escaped again meaning we’re going to need to catch up with her again” she certainly had become adept at running she supposed Zash had learned her lesson from a head on fight with Kyradia long ago

Ashara sighed “I can look for sightings of her but it’s unlikely to find anything” she was right they didn’t seem to be going to populated planets

Andronikos cursed “I tried to identify their ship leaving the atmosphere but I was preoccupied looking for you” Kyradia waved it off he had done the right thing after all

Malora tutted, still messing with the gadget “none of that will be necessary the acid I sprayed her with had emergency nanobots that should be able to track her location” Kyradia’s eyes widened. That was something you could do?

Ashara put her hands on her hips “why didn’t you say that before we could’ve tracked her location already” Malora didn’t make eye contact still messing with the gadget

She shook her head “because all you would’ve done is pester me like this while I make the relay which is going to take considerable time” Ashara looked furious but didn’t say anything

Kyradia questioned her “so these things are a permanent tracker on Zash?” Malora laughed a little and shook her head

She looked to Kyradia “unfortunately not I don’t have the tech available for non perishable Nanobots, they should remain on the burn for 48 hours however it’s likely that Zash has healed the burn so it could be less” Kyradia blinked understanding about half of that, tech had never been her thing. Malora clearly caught onto her confusion “basically I’m reverse engineering nanobots into a relay to track them but i have limited time” Kyradia nodded she thought she got it

Ashara piped up “and you can get it ready in 48 hours?” Malora rolled her eyes going back to the machine

She tutted “we have 24 hours first of all and yes of course I can, I can get it ready in 5 hours at worse” Kyradia had a feeling hiring a scientist was a good idea, Malora looked up at them “as long as I’m left alone so take a rest you all look like you need it” Kyradia had to admit that sounded good

She nodded as Andronikos took her hand “come on hun let’s have a break” Kyradia had to admit that sounded nice

She followed Andronikos into their bedroom and she took a deep breath “thanks for looking for us Andy sorry if I stressed you out” Andronikos smiled and squeezed her hand

He shook his head “it’s ok Ky I know you can take care of yourself” he brushed her hair “I’ll admit I was worried but I think that’s natural I’m always here for you” Kyradia nodded smiling 

She scratched herself “I need to wash my face it’s covered in sand gimme five” she went into their en suite and began to wash her face looking at herself in the mirror, she smiled realising she’d hardly done this since before she called Ashara.

She closed her eyes for a second taking in all that had happened since then her fight with Kavaraa seemed so trivial now she wondered if she was ok wherever she was. But then the flashes of Zash came in again, how she just… killed them and delighted in it, Kyradia stumbled remembering a time she may have been just as cruel. She held the sink tight and breathed heavily she felt sick remembering it, it was still here the monster inside she didn’t know if she could keep it contained.

She opened her eyes and realised her hands were coursing with lightning and she shook them away noticing Andronikos looking at her “I-I I’m sorry I just” Andronikos shook his head and pulled her into a kiss

Kyradia felt herself calm down while Andronikos held her “don’t be sorry I know you’ve been through so much and you don’t have to tell me all of it just let me help you I think that did” Kyradia leaned her head against him holding him tight

After a long few seconds she spoke “yeah it did, do you remember what you promised me when I found you again” Andronikos nodded and Kyradia mumbled “can you promise it again” he kissed her forehead trying to comfort her the best he could

He nodded “of course Kyradia I won’t ever leave you again I promise I’ll be by your side no matter what” Kyradia nestled into his shoulder trying to keep calm

She stammered “e-even though I can’t give yo-” Andronikos cut her off before she could finish

He held her head and looked directly into her eyes “You’re the only family I’ll ever need Kyradia I’d rather have you than anything else I promise” Kyradia closed her eyes nestling back into him

Kyradia sniffed “Thanks Andy I love you and I’m so sorry” Andronikos continued to comfort her

He smiled “it’s ok Ky and it will always be I’m not going anywhere I promise” Kyradia began to calm down returning to normal

She smiled “thanks I uh I feel better now” she looked at him “I think I may need a proper shower and I wouldn’t mind company” Andronikos’ eyes widened as Kyradia smiled…

Outside Ashara was frowning at Malora as she worked on the device, Malora looked up and raised her eyebrow “can I help you Jedi” 

Ashara shook her head “I’m just curious about this device and want to make sure it leads us in the right direction” Malora clearly didn’t believe her

Malora put her hydrospanner down “ok let’s say hypothetically you understood anything about science do you think that my level of science would make any sense to you” Ashara frowned trying to think of a response “and do you think in that scenario I would tell you anything, I’m not trying to outsmart you Ashara I don’t care what you people do I just want my bile back” Ashara folded her arms grumpily 

She tutted “well I’m sorry for wanting to be safe, you may have been through a lot but your previous inventions have all been a little dangerous I thought I’d just make sure while Kyradia and Andronikos are busy taking a break” she looked over to their room “I wonder what they’re doing Kyradia seemed a little shaken up” Ashara wasn’t very good at waiting it seemed

Malora shook her head “they got past the serious talk a while ago I believe they’re engaging in strenuous sexual activity” Ashara eyes widened as she began to go bright red how could she talk about that so freely

Ashara stammered “What! Malora gross that’s my master why wou- what wou- I uh” Malora frowned not looking up from her device

She explained “based on the sounds, the locked door and their libidos I’d say it’s likely and I thought she wasn’t your master?” Ashara continued to stammer

Ashara took a deep breath “well no that just slipped out I’ll always look up to her a little but still why are you talking about it” Malora still hadn’t looked up from her gadget

She shook her head “you asked me what they were doing I gave you my answer I’m sorry I assumed you weren’t that innocent of a Jedi” Ashara frowned what was that supposed to mean

Ashara put her hands on her hips “well I’m not I know about that stuff but I don’t just talk about it like it’s normal it’s supposed to be private and special” Malora tutted at her rolling her eyes

She spoke “whatever you say Jedi I’ll refrain from using words that are too adult for you” Ashara scrunched up her face as Malora said that

Ashara stormed off “ugh shut up ok you’re insufferable” she continued storming off sitting down in a huff next to Xalek who appeared to be knitting, after a few seconds she asked “what are you knitting?” Xalek turned to her his icy exterior surprised to hear her ask

Xalek responded as coldly as ever “a pair of gloves better suited for my saber” Ashara nodded not really listening

Ashara started talking almost instantly after he finished “I can’t believe her you know she waltzes in like she owns the place and I try to help her and then she’s so grumpy about it” Xalek frowned 

He asked “who are we talking about?” clearly the context was lost on him

Ashara gestured to Malora “Malora she’s such a know it all and she knows it” Xalek frowned looking over to her

He shrugged “she hasn’t bothered me I was worried she was trying to take my position but she’s pretty clear about her intentions I can respect that” Ashara sulked “if she annoys you just ignore her you’re the one who keeps pestering her” Ashara frowned 

Ashara responded “well yeah but I’m just making sure she’s not a threat what if she’s dangerous aren’t you worried about that” Xalek considered it

He smiled deviously “if there is proper evidence of that I would delight in slicing her in half but until that day she has been rather helpful, I’ve been keeping an eye out” Ashara continued to sulk Xalek was not helping her feel better 

Ashara frowned “I dunno she just always seems to know how to rile me up” Xalek shook his head

He continued knitting “then don’t talk to her you’re the one who keeps instigating the conversation” Ashara frowned but she had to keep an eye on Malora right “you seem a little obsessed” Ashara gasped clearly insulted

She denied the idea immediately “I’m not! I’m just cautious” Xalek nodded clearly not believing her causing Ashara to just sulk in silence

After a few hours Malora’s device seemed to whir to life and she grinned “perfect there you are Zash” she was getting sloppy they had to capitalize…

Terri watched as the planet of Ragna III came into view the planet was so lush and green which was a nice change from the last five planets they had been to, she looked over to Zash who had been scratching at her face

Terri frowns “are you ok Zash you’ve been acting a little strange since Savareen” Zash seemed to shrug it off looking ahead

She grumbled “that scientists poison was very potent I’m afraid your healing only did so much” Terri was still very scared of Malora but Zash had managed to beat them so she felt somewhat comfortable, she’d wanted to ask her about some of the things the commander had said but didn’t want to while she was in pain.

She piloted the ship down and Zash began putting on gear “I’d like you to stay on the ship for this one I’ve done some research and I think if the commander catches up to us again they may go for the ship” Terri frowned she didn’t really want to stay on the ship 

She followed Zash to the ramp “but I can help Zash I know I had bad time on Savereen but you know I can help” Zash put her hand out as she started lowering the ramp

She smiled “I don’t doubt it Terri that’s why I trust you to look after this thing and keep it safe” Terri guessed that made sense as the ramp lowered Terri’s eyes widened as large furry bipedal creatures stood outside with familiar looking Rattataki in nightsister robes holding their chains and staring down at Zash. Zash turned around “and that's the other reason” she bowed before them 

One came forward “what are you doing trespassing on this land” Zash seemed surprisingly prepared for this Terri guessed this was the research

She showed the list of ingredients from Ysum which instantly grabbed their attention “I am on the hunt for ingredients for a potion and believe we could strike a deal, I have done my research and there is word that you have a certain affinity for Magick” the sister walked up to her standing a good 5 inches taller than Zash

Mist surrounded her hand and a little flame emerged “and so what if we do we wouldn’t teach it to an outsider without something in return” Zash smiled clearly ready for this question she’d clearly learned her lesson from the first time they encountered the sisters

She folded her arms “I believe you know the name Ysum if I were to complete this potion I may put in a good word about how this colony helped me” Terri frowned knowing that was partially a lie, she guessed it was ok since Ysum seemed like trouble and so did these guys.

The sister considered it “this may be preferable come with us to meet our chief and we will discuss the details, but if you try to stab us in the back we will kill you” Zash nodded seemingly unintimidated

Terri looked at the holodisc again and shuddered; she still hadn’t been able to watch the thing, she trusted Zash was telling the truth about it but she did want to see quite what they were up against. Apparently it wasn’t like anything Zash had ever seen from the Commander, they hadn’t really had time to discuss it as they’d made their quick escape.

Terri was getting exhausted with the constant running but she understood to even stand a chance with the sith, republic and alliance all against them this was the only way. Still it didn’t make it any less tiring, Terri had never thought it would be this complicated she always thought she’d just do Zash a favour and Lusari and her could leave. She wiped her eyes preemptively, clearly Lusari had thought about it differently, maybe she’d never quite understood Lusi as well as she thought she had. She was definitely a lot braver than Terri to do all that selflessly for another person, but she guessed it made sense after all Lusari had looked after her while they were still at the academy.

Terri sighed there was no point ruminating over it that was all in the past now, she walked back into the living quarters where Zash was drinking some caf. Terri smiled for the first couple of weeks Zash had tried to eat and drink things that she ‘knew she liked’ but over time she’d noticed Zash returning to Lusi’s old palette she guessed they were the same taste buds after all. 

Terri sat down next to her “hey are you doing any better now?” Terri had never seen Zash that shaken it certainly had frightened her

Zash nodded putting down the drink “yeah I’m ok now it was just shocking that’s all, it came rather out of nowhere” Terri nodded she hoped one day they’d both be able to rest but with people’s perceptions of them it was a little difficult, she supposed after Zash had gained the power they seek she may be able to.

Terri looked away “so uh do you have any idea what they were doing there” Zash frowned at her looking confused

She answered “well I assume looking for us I doubt they’re stopping the search even now” Terri nodded she knew at least that

She shook her head “yeah but how’d they find us this time we’d been hiding for a while on a not technologically advanced planet” Zash did seem to consider that with more thought

She stroked her chin “to be honest I don’t know, we didn’t exactly leave a paper trail this time” she sighed “whatever it was we best hope it was just a one time thing facilitated by their new scientist friend” Terri shivered thinking about Malora she was still a very scary reminder of her time in the academy

Zash seemed to pick up on that “you seemed to know her vaguely when we met her do you have much of an idea how she operates” Terri shrugged most the time when she’d seen her she’d avoided her

She shook her head “not really Zash all I know is one day her face was fine and the next it started to become all cracked like you’ve seen” Zash sighed clearly not mad but deep in thought

Zash rubbed her forehead “either way we should keep an eye on her, the Jedi and Kyradia aren’t what I’d call tech smart” Terri nodded she was still confused what the Jedi was doing there but it was all very confusing so who was she to judge

Terri looked at Zash “so what did you manage to learn with the sisters” Zash smiled looking at Terri with clear excitement

She began to explain “basic stuff, unfortunately we didn’t get too far just basic manipulation of Magick, still I did manage to get this” Terri watched as her form shifted into mist and appeared on a different seat “boo” she laughed as Terri jumped back only a little “it’s like a mist form” Terri’s eyes widened as she clapped

She smiled “wow that’s so cool, maybe you could teach me” she really did want to know but Zash’s expression soured

She shook her head “I don’t know yet Terri I’m still a beginner this stuff is dangerous” Terri looked down dissapointed and a little frustrated

Terri sighed “fine I guess you’re right but once you’re not a beginner you gotta teach me ok” Zash gave her a smile but never actually seemed to say yes

Terri decided to change the conversation and picked up the list “what’s next then ‘Snowbark Amber’ what the heck is that” Zash tutted and took the thing with a smile

She opened up a datapad “that’s been the other thing I’ve been working out, Snowbark Amber is fossilised tree sap that used to be native to Dathomir. However the tree it came from died out on Dathomir long ago and as you can imagine the sisters quickly used up the resource.” Terri nodded not understanding everything but at least understanding there was none on Dathomir “you can use other amber but it’s extremely less potent and I’m sure we don’t want that” Terri nodded what with the threat of Ysum betraying them it seemed fair

Terri had a feeling she was leading up to something “so where else can you find it? You said it only died out of Dathomir” Zash smiled clearly pleased she had someone to explain this to

She continued “well it’s become very rare and while present on some planets with Nightsisters, those tribes being a secret has rather impeded that strategy. I also checked with the sisters on Ragna III and there was no Snowbark trees in that climate, so I had to look into other natural occurrences of Snowbark trees and I found they’re still prominent on Ziost” Terri’s eyes widened wait did she know about Ziost?

Terri stammered “um Zash about that uh Ziost is um well it’s dead, the Emperor killed all life on the planet” Zash’s closed her eyes and let out an exasperated sigh

She took a deep breath “of course it is, well then I guess we’ll have to go with plan C which is not ideal” Terri shivered she was afraid to ask

She tried to stay positive “uh what’s plan C?” Zash shook her head and got out another datapad scrolling through it

She continued explaining “well due to its rarity and distinctive shine it’s rather rare and the feather in any collectors trophies” Terri shivered oh no who had it, Zash clearly read what she was thinking “the only known chunk of Snowbark Amber is well it’s in the Empress’ private collection” Terri’s jaw dropped the empress???? No they couldn’t steal from her

She stammered “as in Acina?? Zash we may be skilled but we are not that skilled” Zash shook her head and tutted

Terri looked out the taxi as it flew over Dromund Kaas, she’d never been here despite being part of the sith academy; only really hearing stories of its size and scale and it certainly was brimming in both. She felt a little intimidated by it all but was more worried about the palace she saw in the distance, were they really going to steal from Empress Acina? Without her there it may make it easy enough to achieve but still what if something went wrong and she and Zash were separated. She sighed she knew they had to though this was the only place they knew with Snowbark Amber and without the means to make Zash stronger they may as well turn themselves in.

They arrived in a posh looking district and Zash led her to a High End Dejarik parlor, Terri was confused what they were doing here “um Zash I thought we looking for help with the Amber” Zash tutted and led her to the counter where she exchanged some words with the owner who nodded and walked away

She smiled “trust me Terri this place is more than it seems, and while we’re at it it may be good to use a fake name while your here to throw the Commander off the scent” Terri nodded they’d already left their sabers on the ship which greatly worried Terri but she understood the reasoning. Still getting used to the weird Vibrosword she had was certainly a challenge, it was so much heavier than her saber.

After a bit the owner came back and led them to the back and through a curtain where Terri’s eyes widened as she saw the back room bar with an array of people discussing all manner of things all with some professional heir to them. 

Zash smiled at Terri and gestured to it “welcome to the most sophisticated hovel of criminals this side of Dromund Kaas” she looked around “at least the last time I checked which was admittedly 8 years ago” it certainly didn’t look like a skeezy criminal bar so that was something

As they walked towards the bar Terri asked “so you know these people? You’ve used their services before?” Zash nodded sitting down on a barstool as she looked around for someone

She answered “yeah pretty much every time I’d need an artefact recovered I’d come here under an alias although that has had to change slightly” as if to answer the question a Zeltron woman came up to Zash and smiled

She hugged her “Zaryl I was so sad to hear of your mother's passing I hope the time was not too traumatic for you she and I knew each other quite well” Terri blinked at the name Zash had chosen it wasn’t exactly a far cry from Zash but if she was posing as her own daughter then she supposed there was something to it

Zash hugged back but seemed tense “Jynne Ilane I’ve heard plenty of those stories from my late mother and don’t worry it was sad yes but I’m strong enough to power through” she chuckled “and honour her legacy by getting into some capers of my own” Terri was completely bewildered by the mask Zash had on she seemed like a completely different person

Jynne laughed “Oh I bet, taking more artefacts out the rich’s hands count me in” she turned to Terri “and who is this an associate of yours” Zash gave Terri a look which suggested she should talk

She smiled and shook her hand “yes I’m Zas... Zaryls assistant my name is uh” she couldn’t think of anything for a second but soon thought of something “Lucy my names Lucy” she let out an internal sigh of relief that was close

Jynee smiled “nice to meet you Lucy I’m sure you two must have quite the plan to contact me at short notice” Zash nodded and began to explain

“Yes well we can discuss the details in private, it’s quite the heist but Lucy already knows the plan you should wait here” Terri nodded even if she didn’t know that much of the plan except what and where they were looking. Still it was probably best if she didn’t butt in on the plan they seemed to know what they were doing and Terri wasn’t exactly a seasoned criminal, if Terri was being entirely honest she wouldn’t mind a smaller role in this particular mission.

She turned to the bartender and ordered some Jogan juice and sipped it quietly until someone came up to the bar, he was tall, short brown hair seemingly human and very noble looking. The robes colours probably indicated what he represented but heck if Terri knew she just sipped her juice quietly.

After a moment he spoke up “now there’s something you don’t see every day” Terri frowned looking around what was he referring to 

She frowned at him, cocking her head “uh what I don’t see anything?” the man looked at her a little confused 

He laughed awkwardly “your hair, it’s not common to see someone with white hair let alone a Mirilian” Terri realised and felt like a right fool

She nodded awkwardly “oh right yeah I guess I’ve gotten used to it I forget how much it stands out, it’s actually quite common among my family but outside yeah not so much” she had admittedly never met another person outside her family with white hair that wasn’t over 60 so she guessed it made sense to pick up on

He smiled “well I think it looks great it suits you really well, not that you needed any help” Terri nodded that was nice to hear Terri and Lusari had always stood out due to their long hair but Terri had never minded it. She sipped her juice as he continued “uh aha my names Leru nice to meet you” Terri gave him an awkward smile

She returned the courtesy, well sorta “um I’m Lucy nice to meet you” as much courtesy as a fake name had

Leru nodded “that’s a really pretty name” Terri definitely thought so “so what are you drinking?” normally Terri wouldn’t indulge a strangers conversation but she was bored waiting for Zash and he was being friendly enough 

Terri looked at her drink “oh just some Jogan juice nothing fancy” she liked fruit juice always had, people said that was childish but the joke was on them when they had a vitamin C deficiency.

Leru had a drink of his own, some kind of cocktail “huh nothing Alcoholic? That’s unique I bet you’d like some of the cocktails they do here they tend to have juice in them” Terri frowned she didn’t like Alcohol very much even when it was a nice cocktail

She shook her head “I don’t think so I’ve never really enjoyed Alcohol the few times I’ve had it” she wondered how Zash was doing with Jynne

Leru seemed to sigh “well I think it’s the thing you might have to try a few times to like” Terri considered it for a second but disagreed, there was a minute of awkward silence as Terri drank her juice “so you hear planning a caper?” Terri frowned should she say anything? She guessed saying she was ‘on a caper’ could mean anything

Terri nodded “yeah sorta I can’t say what it’s hush hush but we may be planning something” Terri yawned she wasn’t very patient and she wanted to know how dangerous their heist would be

Leru was about to say something but Terri noticed as Zash sped past her in a fury “hey DICK she’s not interested so fuck off” Terri gasped as Zash yelled at the man who quickly scurried away 

Terri frowned at her “Zaaaa… Zaryl there was no need to yell at him he was only being friendly” Zash gave her a bemused look as she shook her head

She gestured to his drink “Lucy he was clearly hitting on you didn’t you realise?” Terri’s eyes widened as she heard what Zash said, why would he do that? Why’d he want to hit on her.

Terri frowned at Zash “ewww why would he want to hit on me? I don’t even, are you sure? That doesn’t sound right” she shivered the idea of it made her feel uncomfortable

Zash sat down next to her with a sigh “Terri I know you may not see yourself that way but you’re a very pretty young woman and you may have no interest in them but they don’t know that” it suddenly clicked in her head and she realised that indulging him just to be friendly may have not been the best idea

Terri was still confused “but I wasn’t interested at all, I wouldn’t be” Zash sighed and put a hand on her shoulder

She smiled “that’s why I stepped in to get him off your back, sorry if it seemed rash at the time” Terri nodded she actually did appreciate that a lot

Terri smiled “thanks Zaryl sorry I’m bad at seeing those things, thanks for looking after me” Zash smiled back and for a second Terri felt like she wasn’t looking back at Zash even just for a second

The second passed quickly though and it left her with a pit of sadness in her stomach “of course Terri, now anyway I’ve been discussing the details of the plan with Jynne and we’ll have to get hold of some blueprints and a crew willing and capable to go into the Palace but other than that we’re good” Terri smiled but realised it was just Zash’s plan in front of her and sighed

She still put on a brave face “that’s great Zaryl I’m glad I can’t wait til this is all over” Zash nodded at her with what felt like a bit of a patronising smile

Zash patted her on the back “well hey it’s not long now and I really do appreciate all the help you’ve given me you didn’t exactly have to” Terri smiled that was very nice to hear “now come on the hacker for the team is already here just over there” she pointed to a table where a young Ardennian sat with a few datapads in front of him using his extra arms to use them all at once. He wore a pair of goggles and a flight jumpsuit seemingly especially made for Ardannians

Terri chuckled at the sight “well he certainly could lend a hand” she giggled to herself and Zash gave her a somewhat amused look

They walked over and joined him at the table “Dain Gilata nice to meet you I believe Jynne has given you the details on the mission” he turned to them and a big smile came across his face

He shook both their hands at the same time “and you must be Zaryl and Lucy I must say I’ve never had heist planners that looked like they’d belong in a fashion catalogue so this is bound to be interesting” Zash feigned a laugh but clearly was not amused

She frowned “well I’d hope so your assistance is going to be needed on security and hacking I’ve heard that’s your speciality” he stifled a laugh and showed Zash some of the datapads

He grinned “right now every exit of this place is monitored on these if anything unnatural happens I will know and I’m only doing it now cause, I’m bored imagine what I can do when I’m trying” a grin did cross Zash’s face and Terri had to admit this looked mighty impressive

Zash nodded “very good indeed well you should probably get to know Lucy as she will be protecting you during the security side of things” Terri frowned was she really on guard duty she wanted a muted role but not that muted

Terri looked at Zash dejected “So all I’m doing is protecting Dain he looks pretty capable are you sure that’s the best use of my talents” Zash wagged her finger to imply ‘let me explain’

She answered “no of course not Lucy you know what your best skill is?” Terri thought about it she guessed her ability to visualise an environment “the way you can sense everything so clearly you’re going to be perfect for checking blindspots and sensing danger” Terri was pleased with that it certainly sounded better than guard duty

She smiled “I guess that’s better I’ll do my best” Zash smiled as she stood up

She looked to each of them “I have a few more errands to run in the meantime get to know each other it’ll make the mission run smoother” she left leaving the two of them alone

Dain gave a sarcastic whistle “well she’s certainty a character a bit holier than thou but I’ve had worse leaders” Terri chuckled she was a bit but it was with good reason

Terri crossed her legs and smiled “yeah a bit she’s done a lot for me though so I kinda owe her” Dain nodded he seemed to understand

He held his palms together “yeah that’s fair gotta pay your debts, loyalty will get you a lot further in this galaxy than you think” Terri nodded she’d always thought that too “if you don’t mind me asking why do you owe her Lucy?” Terri wondered how much she should say definitely leave out the sith part

Terri responded “well she helped me escape this awful school I was at, without her I doubt I would’ve been able to ever escape so now I’m helping her out in return” she knew it’s what was best it’s like Zash said she had to honour Lusari’s memory

Dain gritted his teeth “ooh yeah that’s rough well I’m sure she appreciates your support, you two are rather young to be planning a heist like this what are you 18-19?” Terri did always forget they both were barely young adults

Terri didn’t know quite how to answer “well I’m 19 but Zaryl is actually a lot older than she looks I think she’s like 40-50 years old she’s just got one of those youthful faces I think” she didn’t know if that lie would fly but what else could she say

Dain looked at her in surprise “if that isn’t looking good for your age I don’t know what is maybe she found a sith holocron that granted her ‘youth for a great price’” he joked Terri laughed but was fully aware of how likely that actually was

Terri shuddered as her mind went back to why she didn't look so young “she does admittedly I doubt I’ll look so good at 40, we’ve been on a bit of a quest for her just to collect a few things” Dain nodded seemingly interested

He frowned “forgive me for asking if this is intrusive it’s just you talk a lot about what she wants but what do you want out of this it sounds like you’ve done enough to make you guys even” Terri had to admit that was true but of course it was more complex

Terri sighed and looked at him “uh can you keep a secret?” she realised she was giving Dain a lot of information but he was the first person to genuinely ask and he was being very kind. He nodded and she decided as long as she didn’t tell it all it was fine “well there was actually a third person with us Zaryl’s younger sister uh Sahri, she was about my age and well she’s gone now” these fake names were getting out of hand

Dain nodded a solemn look on his face “gone like left or gone gone” Terri nodded at the latter “oh I’m sorry that’s terrible” Terri felt herself sniff she hadn’t really been able to talk to anyone about it in a long time

She nodded continuing “thing is Sahri was really determined to help Zaryl, she said Sahri knew it’d be ok when she was gone cause I’d help Zaryl achieve her goals. So I kinda have to help her for Sahri, we were very close” Dain nodded clearly seeing how it was affecting Terri

Dain walked round the table and put a hand on her back “hey I’m sorry I didn’t mean to make you recall that you two seemed pretty close” Terri smiled wiping her eyes she was strong she could get through it

Terri shook her head “no no it’s ok it's nice to talk about it, I can’t talk about it with Zaryl it’s too difficult please don’t tell her I told you” Dain nodded a very genuine smile on his face

He responded “hey of course I won’t say a word, I'm a successful hacker for a reason I’m good at hiding secrets, you seemed very close with Sahri though was she like Zaryl or different? Less pompous?” he joked causing Terri to laugh

She started describing her “she really looked a lot like Zaryl but she had long straight hair that went all the way down her back and she had these cute silly bangs that would always get in her eyes” she felt her heart flutter thinking about Lusari again “Sahri would always wear this dark purple lipstick and nail polish that looked so cool I was always so jealous” she felt a tear fall down herself and she breathed in shaky breath. She didn’t realise how long she’d been holding onto that it felt good to let it out, she sniffed and smiled even if Lusari was gone she still had the good times.

Dain sat next to her with a smile “she seemed like quite the catch and you seemed pretty taken with her” Terri gasped, what die he? Oh who was she kidding why pretend anymore she’d had the biggest crush on Lusari “losing someone can be tough but as long as you’re with the right people you can get through anything Lucy” he moved back over to his side of the table

Terri smiled “yeah I guess so she was very special to me but you’re right I can get through it” she looked over to Zash who was discussing something with Jynne, was she with the right people? She wasn’t sure she knew.

She decided not to press it right now she had a question for Dain “Hey why do you have goggles with no lenses in them?” she’d noticed it while they were talking but hadn’t said anything until now

Kyradia was hyperventilating as they moved her towards the table her eyes darted around as the Nightsister chief snatched her saber “hmmmm I see you were one of the success stories” Kyradia tried to grab it but her muscles still weren’t working leaving her to just watch

Zash tutted moving up to her with a devious grin “I wouldn’t go that far Chief Tzsuo” she put a hand on Kyradia’s shoulder, Kyradia could immediately feel the anger building up inside her “she had a certain nack for insubordination and sticking her nose where it doesn’t belong” she shoved Kyradia forward against the table with the restraints

Kyradia could feel herself losing control as she began to see flashes of that cave, the mist, and her. Tzuso chuckled “well let’s find out where the sisters went wrong I’m sure you wouldn’t mind helping us Zash” Zash shook her head moving towards Kyradia

No no no she was not going back there she couldn’t be tied up but she couldn’t let it out but she didn’t know how to stop it, she saw green mist begin to pour out of her eyes as her muscles tensed up; it was too late and it was out the monster was here

https://open.spotify.com/track/3TnGabS1ylWPNOTa2kJBDn?si=_SJ16bV1R3C44TH6jrIpnQ

The feeling in her arms and legs returned as her mind came to one goal fight, she sprung up and kicked Zash back sending her flying across the room. Immediately Nightsisters descended on her there were nearly thirty in here but they were the ones outnumbered, the closest five came at her trying their best to restrain her.

But Kyradia moved with insane speed grabbing the first one's arm and then bending it out of shape to a resounding snap, she used her momentum to throw the sister at two of the others as she pounced on a fourth. 

She grabbed the sides of her head and slammed them against the floor until they stopped struggling and stood to see many more now descending on her, the fifth seemingly had a better idea and brandished a spear. She lunged at Kyradia before she could do anything, the spear only slightly piercing her flesh, Kyradia snarled at her grabbing the spear out of her hands and jumped towards her slamming it deep into her head.

She had no idea where Zash and the chief were but she didn’t care as she snarled at the nightsisters trying their best to restrain her, ten or so more had surrounded her and decided to try and take her at the same time. One lunged forward trying to grab her from behind but was met with a surprise as Kyradia strode behind her and sweeped her legs stepping on her skull.

The others seemed to learn from this all going to attack her at once grabbing at her to try and restrain her but to their surprise Kyradia only used this against them grabbing two of them and using their weight against them to slam them into the other many cracks and breaks coming from the sisters, then proceeding to make sure each of them stayed down.

Still a few had a hold on her and more surrounding her every second they began to push her to the ground but Kyradia wasn’t going to allow it using all her rage and anger to channel a current of electricity all over her body. As the sisters closed in she let it out with a resounding boom sending them all flying into burned crumpled heaps on the floor, Kyradia looked around the room and her eyes set on the Chief Tzuso who’d stolen her weapon.

She bared her teeth and dashed over as Tzuso drew a blade of her own, as Kyradia was supposed to collide with her she disappeared into the mist reappearing behind her but Kyradia sniffed the air sensing her there pulling Tzuso towards her with the force. She used the momentum of the pull to lay a loud punch into Tzuso’s skull causing her to fall back nose gushing with blood, Kyradia stalked her prey as Tzuso tried to stand up looking to put some space between them. Kyradia growled at her grabbing at her long frizzy hair and slamming her back against the ground leaving a small indent of her there, she saw her blade on the chief's belt and snatched it up quickly. Tzuso’s eyes were wide, clearly realizing the magnitude of her mistake Kyradia got in close and snarled at her, the green mist pouring out of her mouth and eyes before igniting her saber through her skull.

There were just a few stragglers left now looking like they were ready to run but Kyradia wouldn’t let that happen, she threw her saber across the room cutting down three sisters in one fell swoop as she ran at another slamming her hard against the wall punching at her until she fell to the ground

She turned around catching her saber as it returned to her, just one left she thought Kyradia hadn't seen her hiding under the table. Kyradia strode over chomping at the bit the sister quickly realised she’d been spotted and meekly tried to run away, Kyradia pulled her in with the force the sister falling to the ground in front of her pleading with her to stop. Kyradia felt herself twitch as she raised the blade and slammed it down, she took a deep breath as the mist finally receded from around her and she closed her eyes for a second.

But in the silence she heard a laugh a familiar laugh, her eyes darted over to Zash who had watched the whole thing “well well this is certainly telling Kyradia and here I thought you’d gone soft” Kyradia felt the rage build back up as she threw her saber at Zash. But to her surprise just before the Saber would impact Zash’s form dissipated with that same green mist, no no no she was learning their ways she had to stop her she had to find Ashara and Malora.

She turned around but gasped as she looked at the scene in the room, blood and bodies everywhere, every sister that had been in here now lay dead on the ground. Kyradia felt herself shiver as she dropped to the floor, her hands starting to shake, she’d done it again she’d let out her true self and this is what it wrought. She felt her eyes well up with tears; she truly was just a monster, her body was covered in their blood as she let out a gutteral scream, a few minutes later Ashara and Malora rushed into the room.

Ashara gasped looking at the carnage in the room and Kyradia in the middle of it sobbing, Ashara rushed over cradling her “Kyradia are you ok?! What happened!?” Kyradia continued to sob her words not really forming into sentences as Malora looked at the corpses

After a little bit of comforting Kyradia managed to speak “I’m so sorry th-they were going to tie me up and” she took a long pause a solemn look in her eyes “I made another mistake Ashara, Zash is right I really am just a monster” Kyradia began to sob again as Ashara took in the information

Ashara rocked her back and forth “hey it’s ok this wasn’t your fault they did this right this isn’t your fault” Kyradia shook her head at Ashara clearly not agreeing

Kyradia sobbed and sobbed “they were going to tie me up and I just couldn’t go back so I let it out and then” her breath was shaky as she spoke “I killed them all” Ashara nodded doing her best to comfort her as Malora came over

She bent down doing her best best to act comforting “I will say Kyradia it doesn’t seem like your fault, clearly you’re dealing with some kind of post traumatic stress and it triggered you when they wanted to ‘tie you up’ for anyone that would be tough” Ashara nodded at this as Kyradia began to take a few deep breaths

She took a deep sigh “I still did it though I chose to let it out, I let Zash get to me and my trauma I’m so sorry” she didn’t understand why they were giving her sympathy 

Ashara shook her head sternly “don’t you dare apologize for whatever they put you through that wasn’t your fault and this is not the same ok, Zash knows how to push your buttons it’s her fault not yours” Kyradia didn’t respond clearly not convinced

She sighed “I should be stronger I shouldn’t let her get to me” she knew this would happen this was all her fault

Malora spoke up “weakness is what makes us people Kyradia our ability to better ourselves is what puts us above people like Zash” Kyradia didn’t feel above Zash not with all the dead bodies around her

Ashara helped her up “she’s right Kyradia, I’m adamant this is not your fault and you know I’d rightly call you out for your other mistakes we’re going to fix this ok” Kyradia nodded not believing her at all “now let’s get out of here, get back to Odessen you need a break” Kyradia nodded maybe she wasn’t qualified to stop Zash…

Terri was half asleep when her comm blared to life “TERRI get the ship ready the Commander has caught up with us and she... oh my god Terri she” she trailed off as Terri jumped to life getting the ship ready for Zash

Terri responded “what happened Zash don’t worry I can take it” she set the ship ready for takeoff

Zash took a deep breath “she killed them all Terri, we had her captured and she just went crazy I barely got out alive” Terri gasped in shock she didn’t think the commander was capable of that

A few seconds later Zash darted onto the ship and into the cockpit breathing heavily “alright go we may not have much time, I’ve never seen her like that before” Terri nodded and quickly piloted the ship into orbit plotting coordinates to anywhere else

Terri turned to her “what do you think happened I thought she was just after us” Zash sat down next to her putting a holo on the console

Zash sighed “see for yourself, but I’ll warn you it’s pretty graphic” Terri shivered she didn’t think she wanted to see that