Karnac
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Post by Karnac on May 31, 2024 12:31:14 GMT -8
Even in such company to be joked with, Hemlock remained serious in his composure. When he spoke, one would be uncertain if he was following a logical course of conversation or his own form of jesting. Still, a chuckle emanated from Karnac's throat when mentioning them all needing an examination in light of a possibility that they could have caught something that would possibly harm those on Roon. If only the man knew what awaited them. He might have followed a different train of thought. Still, for the moment, he didn't respond. It was only as Lyne began to walk out with him that he spoke to her mind.
<<It might be wise to inform him of the true dangers of anyone on this ship carrying something.>>
A slight chuckle escaped her lips just as they stopped upon hearing the zabrak's words. She knew exactly what he meant. And indeed, it would be wise. But for the moment, she focused on Hemlock as he spoke. When he asked for her undivided attention for at least thirty seconds, she let herself tilt to the side slightly as lifted her arm as if looking at a chronometer.
"Tick Tock."
There was light sarcasm in her voice, but the question was, would he notice? |
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πΏπππππππ
The Sith Eternal
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Post by πΏπππππππ on Jun 3, 2024 8:19:50 GMT -8
CLOSED RP
Ah, but would they ever realize how strict the Chirurgeon and her branch were when it came to the health and safety of Abyssos? Karnac's private jab in Lyne's mind might have gone unnoticed, but it wouldn't change the reality. The coming days weighed on Hemlock's mind. He needed to ensure the outside world wouldn't suffer from Abyssos's ignorance or that Abyssos wouldn't suffer from their own cluelessness. He had simply failed to immediately recognize the risk carried by the outsiders traveling into foreign, primitive lands. Easily fixable, and at least with how things played out, Hemlock kept his firm footing and head held high to the Elder-Slayer.
It had been a total accident, truthfully. Hemlock didn't have a quick-witted bone in his body. Whatever gods remained in the galaxy must have looked out for him.
Lyne's laugh first sparked hope in Hemlock that she wasn't as mad at him as he thought. He then realized it was from something unrelated. That point was further driven home when she looked at her imaginary chronometer as if she was simply offering up that time out of pity or to set him up for further spite. Her sarcasm didn't go unnoticed but was misconstrued. That sharpness and terseness nearly made Hemlock wince.
"I deserve that, too."
Whatever gods watched over Hemlock before now turned a blind eye to his suffering. That, or they were cruel masters and also enjoyed watching him struggle. He had come this far, though, and damn it all, he wasn't the type to back down when he was this far deep.
Hemlock sucked in a deep breath before forcing himself to look directly at Lyne.
"I was an ass."
Hemlock swallowed as the rest of his speech suddenly fluttered out of his mind. He had every word prepared, but looking at her now and being in the moment, he froze. Gods, why was it that he had clarity of mind when the pressure of life and death was on the table, but the moment he had to just... speak, it felt like his whole world shattered under his feet? He wouldn't let her see that struggle, though. He couldn't, not when Hemlock thought Lyne was already this pissed off at him.
"The Chirurgeon is the head of our particular unit, as you've probably gleaned by now. I expected her to struggle with the new technologies. I never imagined she would try to fully and completely maintain their old ways and shun the latest medicines, though. It was a variable I failed to calculate, and it left an invaluable patient vulnerable. Battling two fronts was... stressful, to say the least."
Hemlock was rambling. If he wasn't careful, he would waste those precious thirty seconds on inconsequential nothings. He cleared his throat.
"It's not an excuse but an explanation. You were trying to be helpful, and I repaid that kindness with disrespect and discourtesy. I hope you'll find it in yourself to pardon my earlier behavior... and maybe pop by the medbay again for a proper introduction to the Chirurgeon and the rest of her acolytes now that things have settled down."
He probably had another five to ten seconds left, but Hemlock worried that if he continued speaking, he'd only say something to condemn himself further. Instead, he shoved his hands in his pockets to avoid wringing them while waiting for her replyβif she would reply. He clenched his teeth at the thought of being met with nothing but silence, but he had also prepared a suitable response: leaving and simply returning to the medbay. He wouldn't dare force a lady to remain with undesirable company for longer than she agreed.
Still, with his pride and dignity already shoved deep, deep down, Hemlock would wait whatever excruciatingly painful amount of time it would take to realize Lyne's answer. |
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Karnac
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Post by Karnac on Jun 4, 2024 8:40:56 GMT -8
It would certainly be a divide of them mind, Hemlock's and that of Karnac's group. Unless it was a truly deadly virus or something that could destroy them, it was of little concern what sickness were contracted from elsewhere. As wanderers and conquers, how often would any of the Sith venture to different worlds and return, never once giving a thought to anything they might have picked up? They certainly hadn't cross the few different worlds they had been to in their lifetimes. From the arid worlds of Iridonian heat or the colder temperatures of Korriban, to the wet and electrified swamps of Dromund Kaas, even more temperate worlds they had spent the past seven years on and so many in between, it wasn't so uncommon. Hemlock had certainly proven he was well adept in understanding the world past Haruun Kal, but to what extent and how did his mind differ on the concept? As a doctor, it would seem it was all a serious reality to be considered.
She stood there, listening as Hem ran through his apology, honestly feeling her claim as real and tried to get everything in in such a short time. Once he had finished, she simply glanced up at him.
"So in that you decided to throw me out of what is my team's medbay while still using my team's equipment?" For a split moment, she looked disgusted before finally breaking, unable to hold her façade of being pissed. "You really think that bothered me? Do I look like any kind of expert of medicine? I had only the thought that most, if not all, of you hadn't seen modern equipment before. Believe me, actually having you here makes things a big relief. At least you can handle things and make sure all goes well and doesn't get damaged. No need to check in to make sure everything's going ok. It was also a simple point upon hearing her speak of your patient as a circus act in which I wished her to realize that this was very common out here. But clearly, she going to need some real convincing. Which may not come until we get to Roon and she's subject to it regularly." She then shrugged. "Sorry that you felt the need to apologize for really nothing. It didn't bother me. As I said, I may not be an expert in medicine, but I know of all people, doctors tend to get really pushy when it comes to patients and those who seem to be in the way."
She then looked at him with a raised brow."All that said, in regards to your examination. Surely you wouldn't think that a single trip to that planet would create some crisis back on Roon, would you? The Sith are not known most of the time to stay idle on a single world for long. Always moving and conquering, from deserts, to swamps, jungles, snow, and nicely temperate worlds, we have seen many, each of use having been to at least a dozen different worlds. Technically, this would be our third within a month. Still, if you are so certain about your choice, then I would recommend ensuring your own people aren't carrying anything. Not for the sake of the Sith or your standing among them, but for no other reason than making sure you all have a pleasant experience and aren't turned into an experiment by our Apothecary. His method and interests are...not for the faint of heart."She then thought back on their arrival on Roon. First the trip through the swamp where they met Dragus and fought the mutant ranat fueled by the dark-side, then the plant-zombie assault shortly after. Just the idea made her shiver and feel disgusting all over. |
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The Sith Eternal
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Post by πΏπππππππ on Jun 4, 2024 18:23:07 GMT -8
CLOSED RP
At least Lyne didn't force Hemlock to wait too long to get his answer. He didn't quite understand the need for a sudden shift in her demeanor. Was she intending to be friendly with him? Hemlock refused to dwell on it, but relief painted his features once it finally snapped into place that she was jesting at his expense.
"Between you and me, I would bet our Chirurgeon is more stubborn than the Eternal will prove to be resilient. She grew up in her ways. It'll take her more than a new environment and a few months to adjust. If she never does, it wouldn't surprise me, either."
Hemlock's gaze finally broke away from Lyne to glance back in the general direction of the medbay. He made a face, something between exhaustion and desperation. When he looked back to Lyne, he at least schooled his features to appear more pleasant than whatever that thought was about. She made it easy, though.
"You're sorry that I'm sorry?" he asked, chuckling. "If you're not careful, we'll work each other into a black hole of apologies we can't escape. But," he conceded, his smile a bit more natural, "I'll assume it means you'll pardon my earlier brashness."
Hemlock then stepped back to get a better view of inside the cockpit as Lyne expressed her concerns. Tilting his head from side to side, he seemed to silently weigh a few variables before turning his full attention back to Lyne.
"It's highly improbable," he stated confidently. "I'm sure you and your crew are the epitome of health, thanks to the modern-day medicines that seem routine to you. It certainly wouldn't hurt for you to opt for a full examination, though." His eyes narrowed, although it wasn't meant maliciously. Simply as if he was trying to focus on something in particular. "I was made aware of a particular banquet the evening prior. The onset of some foodborne diseases can take a few days. And that's just one variable..."
Hemlock rubbed his chin thoughtfully. His gaze drifted ever so slightly away from Lyne as if he stared intently into nothing but the metal wall. With a wave, he shooed the thought that dragged him away from the present.
"That aside, I made a poor attempt at a jab based on an unlikely chance of illness. Ultimately, it will be your decision regarding your health, and the same goes for your comrades. But promise me you'll come to us immediately if you start to feel even the slightest bit unwell."
Hemlock looked down at Lyne through his glasses and attempted an encouraging smile, much like a doctor trying to win his patient's trust and confidence. As he mulled over Lyne's warnings about this Apothecary, though, that smile faded rapidly. After being rejoined with modern technologies, he had nearly forgotten that all of this belonged to the Sith. While Abyssos certainly had its fair share of moments where morality was severely lacking, Hemlock was convinced they would be over their heads when they were among the Sith.
"Some of the Chirurgeon's acolytes have already begun making their rounds. I gave them strict instructions to be more diligent about those born and raised in the jungles, but it's the blind leading the blind in a case like this."
Hemlock pinched the bridge of his nose, that tell-tale sign of an impending migraine.
"Your Apothecary may be a concern. I would be eternally grateful if you would warn your physicians on Roon before we land that they'll see a significant influx of individuals needing immediate attention. Check-ups, immunizations, the works. Perhaps we can stall off anything that would spark his interest. I would hate for him to invoke the wrath of the Matriarchy..."
Hemlock's voice drifted off as he seemed to remember something. His eyes went wide in horror for the briefest second. He quickly blinked away that dread on his face, cleared his throat, and finished his sentence.
"...or the High Elder's heir, for that matter." |
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Karnac
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Post by Karnac on Jun 5, 2024 8:12:30 GMT -8
Lyne couldn't help but chuckle. The Chirurgeon did seem the type to be a little set in her ways.
"Yeah, I can see that. But who knows? Maybe she'll just turn around and surprise you when you least expect it. Guess we'll just have to wait and see." She then laughed a bit. "Oh, I doubt that. You get the one sorry. After that, you're out of luck. And yes it does."
She then shook her head. "I'm pretty sure we'll all be fine. I doubt the food will give us any issue. But if it does, well, I guess you can say 'I told you so' as you look us over. And honestly, I wouldn't be too concerned. The Apothecary is a member of the council. Not to mention, by what we've learned, he has multiple facilities over multiple worlds. To even remotely catch his attention that he'd think about experimenting, you'd have to have something truly worth while that he can weaponize or it has major effects on the body. If any of you had something like that, I'm sure you would have known about it by now. So I think you're safe. So no wrath needs be ignited. Besides, if you'll forgive the wording, Abyssos is an investment to Karnac. He has his own goals and ambitions and your people do play into that. So you'll have him on your side in case someone wants to try anything, be it Dragus or any other aspiring acolyte of his. Not that Karnac only has an interest in Abyssos for his own sake, but something to keep in mind. The Elder-Slayer won't leave you all to the wolves." |
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πΏπππππππ
The Sith Eternal
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Post by πΏπππππππ on Jun 5, 2024 17:36:03 GMT -8
CLOSED RP
Wait and see. Lyne was certainly an optimistic one. Hemlock breathed a laugh alongside her, although his chuckle was more lifeless and cynical than anything. And where Lyne had perhaps tried to set his mind at ease, her words unfortunately did the exact opposite. He felt his chest tighten as she mentioned that this Apothecary was one on the council. If Abyssos taught him anything, anyone with that kind of status could get away with innumerable things crueler than murder. The word 'experiments' still resonated within him like some deep foreshadowing of impending doom.
Safe. Again, Hemlock forced another laugh at Lyne's positivity and reassurance, and he nervously rubbed the back of his neck. Perhaps she was just edgy and thought Hemlock carried more weight around Abyssos than he actually did, that he would warn the Chirurgeon, and she might actually listen. If anything, the Chirurgeon would act as though he warned her that puppies were invading Abyssos.
Hemlock only felt a hint of relief when Lyne mentioned Karnac's backing. However, with it, he realized his worry expressed itself outwardly a bit too late. His hand clutched at his chest, his fingers gripping his shirt for dear life. As if trying to play it off, he brushed out the clenched fabric before shoving his hands back into his pockets.
"Then I'll count my blessings for that. I'll admit, I'm skeptical that Karnac would treat his cult's leaders as ruthlessly as Abyssos's council, but it's a moot point if what you say is true. And you don't strike me as the type to lie."
At least not purposefullyβhe wouldn't say as much out loud, though. Again, Hemlock stepped back to peer into the cockpit. Mainly, he sought out Karnac. A fearsome specimen who looked like he could break most of the ship's current occupants into two. Including himself. Perhaps Karnac carried the same weight among the Eternal. Hemlock had the unfortunate reality of having nothing else to do but wait. He shook the thought from his head as he hastily turned back to Lyne.
"I should let you get back to your duties, and I should return to mine. As we speak, the Chirurgeon is probably trying to pry something important off Lord Tartarus."
Hemlock offered Lyne a farewell nod.
"And Lyne? Please pass on my request to your fellow companions. Just in case. No 'I told you so's or judgment. If any of you feel the slightest bit off, come find us."
Hemlock appreciated working within a medbay again, not some primitive shack they called an infirmary. Although he wouldn't wish illness on any of them, he would still graciously offer his assistance if it came to that. Again, he wouldn't say as much aloud, though, not when a warning bell still blared its hollow alert in the back of his mind, cautioning him that these short moments of enjoyment were fleeting. |
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Karnac
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Post by Karnac on Jun 6, 2024 7:51:31 GMT -8
It wasn't a difficult task to see that anytime she said something, be it the Chirurgeon or Hem, it seemed to make things worse rather than better. Was it simply because of their time spent on Haruun Kal and going nowhere else? No, that wasn't it, considering that Hemlock knew of the modern advancements of medicine as if he studied it himself. Perhaps it was nothing more than being stuck in their ways or even simpler still they thought on a situation that always drew them down the darker and unpleasant path. It was disappointing, but perhaps it was best that she stop talking for the moment, at least terms of easing any concerns.
She then thought on how Karnac would stand against the Council of Seven or the Supreme Leader if the situation called for it. Would be fight, but in a respectful way? Would he actually back down considering they were the ones that stood over him? Or would he face them with the same ferocity? She liked to think that he'd follow anyone if they proved themselves worthy of the role. He wouldn't hesitate to move on from any he felt were lacking and even tear down any who got in his way. So she had to believe that her words weren't a lie, even if it would have been unintentional. In the end she could only nod.
"You can count on him to have the back of Abyssos. But, I'm certain things will be fine and go smoothly enough once we arrive." With that, there seemed little else to speak of. It seemed he agreed as he spoke of them returning to their duties. "I'll be sure to let them know. ANd remember, if you need anything else, you know where to find us as well." With that, she returned the nod before heading back into the cockpit, questions already flaring up about the discussion and other things that she quickly shut down before they could spiral out of control. |
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Post by πΏπππππππ on Jun 9, 2024 8:02:28 GMT -8
CLOSED RP
Lyne said she believed things would be fine and go smoothly once they arrived. Again, Hemlock couldn't help but admire her optimism and positive outlook. He had seen many, many situations that should have been simple and easy circumstances. Circumstances, where all it took was one unknown or unexpected variable, one action, one sentence, and everything that he knew and expected exploded (or imploded) before his very eyes. He ceased his brooding with a nod of acknowledgment and thanks as Lyne extended the same gesture towards him and his. Again, he trained a smile to match, although it didn't quite reach his eyes. Lyne was the first to leave between the two. For some reason, Hemlock lingered. He had made the generalized motion of departing by turning his back and stepping towards the main lobby. Something whispered in the back of his head, though, a feeling he couldn't quite make sense of. He carried a mild worry over Lyne for some reason he couldn't place. She was cheerful and said every textbook thing she could to calm his concerns. Perhaps he thought, because she was so optimistic, it could be a mask? That deep down, something plagued her at the moment, those questions she refused to speak aloud. Like what she did... Like her... Hemlock shook his head and stormed back to the medbay with quick and eager steps. No, he wouldn't dwell on his past life. Not anymore. There was no going back to it. Not ever. Even if Hemlock somehow sensed Lyne's concerns through this ridiculous gift from the Force, he wouldn't pursue her or push her. Likely, he was the one that caused those questions for her with his terrible habit of overthinking. She would receive her answers her way and in her own time. If he was the only one who held those answers, maybe one day, she would return to ask those questions. For now, though, Hemlock had dwelled here long enough. He had a patient to tend to and an unknown future looming. |
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Valefor
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Post by Valefor on Jun 16, 2024 20:54:41 GMT -8
Cradle Facility: Lucina-8 | Vendusii SectorHow each Holo-Shard Agent experienced the Core-Casting varied. For short distances between Cradle's, it was little more than the blink of an eye. But across several Regions and Sectors some felt as if they were in a dream, others like they were swimming through an ocean. But for HSB-201 it was all a stream of data. Unlike her fellow converts to existence as a Holo-Shard, HSB-201 was not quite as imaginative. She was much more grounded and practical about the way in which the world worked and cared not for distractions and petty illusions.
As the flow of data finished transiting between Cradle Facilities, her vision became blank and dark as the new Core was inserted into her new body. Several standard system alerts rang out as she took a deep gasp of air and opened her eyes. Her senses hit her all at once before calming down again and her processor managed to equalize the input as the last of the fluid was drained from her pod and the hatch popped open. She stumbled naked from the pod, before gripping the console in the centre of the large circular room. Despite Lucina-9's status as an Active Cradle Facility, not a single living being was permanently stationed aboard it.
HSB-201 activated the consoles controls, which caused a scanner to drop from the roof and confirm her Holo-Shard identity before the briefing came up. An image of a man she knew to be HSB-200 appeared alongside an info box relating his last posting upon Algara II where he was currently captured and being interrogated. Her mission was to recover HSB-200's Core and bring it backThe golden boy needs rescuing... how quaint...She checked the rest of the briefing, noting that Cyborga the Hutt was to be her local contact. As she recalled of the Forge Worlds, Cyborga was typically on Kessel overseeing the Forge Masters Spice Operation there and working as a go between with the Hutts.
She headed for the showers then and took a moment to get washed down before getting dressed in her preferred clothes and weapons. What ever agents needed, the Cradle Facilities were almost always able to provide for, and that included transportation. Not long after she had awoken, HSB-201 was washed, dressed, and exiting Lucina-8 at the controls of a Talon-class Starfighter which made the jump to hyperspace toward Algara II
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Di Fastski
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Post by Di Fastski on Oct 2, 2024 17:20:05 GMT -8
And there sat Di now aboard the vessel carrying the elite warriors of the once mighty Iron Fists. A slim smile crossed his face but was gone almost as fast as it appeared. Now. Now the bullet was about to hit the boneβ¦.
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