A Regretful return to Eayn.

[Faclan]

Tags: BetaWülf , Remnant

Kael Gel, T'vaoan Champion
Manifest Destiny observation room
A new challenger approaches?

Having been breathing nice and calmy and really started to calm down Kael grunted a bit in annoyance when she heard the other two females start to bicker. Kael starting to grip the chair to get up and just head for her room before she caught the third statement that was said; '...her actions deserve retribution...they deserve to be avenged'. That sure got the Champions attention. Eyes going alert and feathers starting to rise as she vaulted off the chair sideways and flicked out her Gel blade, only one, and faced the other two females.

Crouching low and raising up both arms Kael knew she would need to play this carefully as there were two completely unknown enemies who could be armed with anything and she only had her blade and needle pistol with no torso or arm armor. The Gel watching them both carefully as she quickly undid the strap on her pistol holster but then returned to a ready combat stance.

But all of the females looked to the side as the door opened and an Unggoy started to walk into the room, but open seeing the clearly ready to fight females made an odd little squeak scream and then fled from the room with arms flailing above his head shouting for "Lord Mag! Lord Mag!" Before the door slid shut. But it would take around a minute if not a minute and a half for Mag to get here from the bridge - plenty of time for her to eliminate these traitors to his crew or for them to kill her in likely some underhanded manner. But there were still just standing there so after a little hiss from the clearly ready to fight Kael she spoke up.

"If you have any thing to say before this is settled now would be the time - whatever I did or you think I did doesn't seem like something that you will leave well enough alone and I will be more than happy to kill you if you attempt to attack me either yourself or with your friend." Kaels bladed arm held in front of her at a slight angle as her other hand rested on her waist near her pistol.

[Remnant]

Lyra Koi, Master of Raiding
Manifest Destiny
Vengeance.

Lyra sneered at the Champion's comment, and shoved Rishi out of the way. Rishi began backing up, attempting to stay out of the fight and out of the crossfire, seemingly giving up on stopping Lyra.

"Make your move, wretch." Lyra coldly stated, drawing her dual SMGs. However, she would refrain from using her wrist blades at the moment. Preferably, she'd keep them retracted in the gauntlets until a surprise opportunity arises.

[Faclan]

Tags: BetaWülf, Remnant

Kael Gel, T'vaoan Champion
Manifest Destiny ovservation room
Come at me brah.

At least this mystery T'vaoan was going to fight her one on one. Or at least thats what she seemed to want Kael to think. Having been in combat nearly all her life Kael had seen many ploys like this before the other tried to pull out a gun and fire. Cowards and scum the lot of them! The Gel Champion even more on edge when two Human bullet hoses were brought out against her. What a scum! Kael lightly setting her hand on the handle of her own pistol before she scoffed at the other female.

"Two guns to a fight? Are you that terrified of your own skill that you need to bring out two of those to fight an old bird like me," a smirk now. "Surely a young pirate such as yourself would revel in the chance to stab." A ploy to be sure as she was at a disadvantage here. But the older bird also confident in her ability to draw and fire from the hip before the other would be able to raise up both of those to fire if she wanted to be a coward. But Kael also knew the look in the others eyes, one of rage and quick thinking. She was confident the other would take the bait and then one wrong move and Kael could slice her throat open or snap her neck. Or leave it for Mag to do as it was his ship. Aecor shall decide on that part if the Pirate took the bait.

[Remnant]

Lyra Koi, Master of Raiding
Manifest Destiny
Round One, FIGHT!

"Two guns to a fight? Are you that terrified of your own skill that you need to bring out two of those to fight an old bird like me? Surely a young pirate such as yourself would revel in the chance to stab." Lyra listened to Kael's words.

She became cautious, her trained eyes noticing Kael putting a hand lightly on her own pistol. Attempting to think on her feet - literally - Lyra opted not to reply at the moment. Instead, as quickly as her muscles would allow, she raised her SMGs and fired in Kael's general direction, before strafing right (continuing to fire) and then performing a combat roll. Both techniques were used to avoid fire, assuming Kael could avoid the suppressive fire.

Using the slight pause to her advantage, Lyra replied.

"Do you honestly think I'm that stupid? Abandon my own weapons like an idiot? I would be genuinely surprised if any nitwit actually fell for that. But, alas, natural selection is a wonderful thing. Mark my words, you insufferable bitch. I will have my retribution." Lyra said, as she trained her SMGs on Kael. She took pleasure in using the Human expletive. While it was uncommon for any Covenant member to use the "heretical" Human language, Lyra didn't quite mind, being a pirate. She always found use for the tongue, on the off chance she had any dealings with Humanity's own outcast, the so-called "Rebels".

Lyra fired a quick burst from her SMGs at Kael, leaned right, and then rolled left in an attempt to draw fire to a false side. As she got to her knees, she retrained her SMGs on Kael, preparing to fire once more.

[Faclan]

Kael Gel, T'vaoan Champion
Manifest Destiny Observation room
Welp, there goes that.

Kael had to give it to the other female - she was at least experienced enough to not fall for the bait. She was also pretty quick. Kael only able to get off one shot before she leapt to the side and backwards to tumble behind the chair she used to be sitting in. The chair itself soon ripped up by the double spray from both small automatic weapons. The Elder mostly just taking cover as the other started to speak.

Kael also had to admit that the other was also smart enough, or knew about her, or just didn't want to try - to not fight her in a knife fight. She would have been eviscerated.

She also had time to think about what the other was saying as she waited behind the chair, thankfully thick enough to keep her alive under the battering of fire but the chair was likely completely ruined. Hopefully Mag didn't like it too much. But really Kael was wracking her memory to remember someone she pissed off this much who was also still alive. She was coming up blank. And soon this one would be dead too so it wouldn't be an issue anymore. Kael keeping a good grip on her needle pistol as she waited for a break on the fire for a reload before she would make this bilgerat a unicorn with a large needle between her eyes.

(Should probably wait for BetaWülf Remnant since its his ship n all.)

[BetaWülf]

Ruuhtian Pirate Lord Mag Rog
SDV-Class Heavy Corvette; the "Manifest Destiny"
For the Love of Aecor!

Mag was livid, utterly so. As they neared the observatory, Mag raised his hand to halt the small band as gunfire could be heard. "Ready yourselves to subdue any moving targets" Mag said to them, the two Jiralhanae nodding. One of them readied an electrified net gun, while the other tightened the straps of an electrified gauntlet(Jiralhanae homebrew items). Mag interfaced with the door, opening it quickly and stepping through with his two guards on either side of him.

The Jiralhanae to his right fired the net, ensnaring Lyra and sending her flying across the room onto the floor. The Jiralhanae to Mag's left rushed in and quickly grabbed Lyra's companion Rishi, shielding her with his gargantuan body as he rushed her away and out of the door. The Jiralhanae with the Net gun grinned as he clicked a button, electrifying the net, incapacitating Lyra. The Jiralhanae proceeded to grab up the net, hoisting it into the air and hefting the trapped Kig-Yar over his shoulder.

"Take her to the brig!" Mag bellowed in a shrieking avian roar, which the guard quickly complied with. Mag motioned for a trio of Unggoy to enter with medical supplies, the oldest looking of the three having simplistic paintings on its chitin denoting he was once a medicine man in his Tribe; the three of them having first aid training. The second Jiralhanae had stayed while his compatriot took Lyra to the brig, standing by Mag's side. To be honest, Mag was glad because he was actually concerned how Kael might react, so having a Jiralhanae at his side helped alleviate his fears.

[Faclan]

Kael Gel, T'vaoan Champion
Manifest Destiny Observation room
Calm?

Glancing to the side as the door opened Kael was actually relieved to see Mag there with his large muscle friends. As she was for once really outgunned here and didn't seem to have much chance. Not that she would say that to him. Or anyone. But especially Mag as he wasn't of her Clan. The Matron glancing over the chair and nodding in satisfaction as both of the other females were subdued. Not killed but she was SURE Mag had a good reason for that.

Fluff better have.

With them both being removed from the room and toward the Brig Kael kept her pistol in her hand as she stood up and was surprisingly less glarey than probably expected as she moved around the bullet riddled chair and toward Mag. Not pointing her weapon at him but her wrist blade was extended as she did. And she stopped just out of range of it so at least didn't seem like she was going to try and stab him in the throat.

"Captain Rog," she started with, taking a breath as her feather ruff returned to normal and not alert. The Jiralhanae probably anxious as they stood beside their boss not being well versed in Kiggle non verbal ques. But Mag would see that she actually didn't seem to be angry...that was different.

"I appreciate you arriving to restrain that one, but some explanation would be helpful so I don't move past you and go execute her for making an attempt on my life. But I am glad we are still moving toward Eayn."

Either she really had turned over a new leaf or was just busy thinking about what she was going to do when she met with Commodore Gel. Mag may have an idea what the Gel punishment is for attempted Murder -  especially attempting to kill one of the Gel family. Poor Lyra

[Remnant]

Lyra Koi, Master of Raiding
Manifest Destiny
Detained.

Lyra was caught off guard as she was ensnared by a projectile net, and screeched as she was thrown across the room. She attempted to wiggle around and out of the net, but barely had time to shriek as the net was electrified, sending many painful volts throughout her body. The electric currents sent her into a frenzy, but she barely had time to quench it as she blacked out from the overwhelming pain.

She woke up over a foul smell, and the constant vibration and bounce of movement. She found herself slung over a Jiralhanae's shoulder, being toted about, presumably towards the brig.

She screeched in a mixture of fury and panic, and began struggling against the net.

"Put me down, insolent beast!" Lyra growled.

"Heh." The Jiralhanae merely gave a few simple huffs, like a chuckle. He then clicked an out-of-sight switch, and immediately Lyra felt another shock course throughout her body. It lasted shorter and wasn't as painful as the last time, but it kept her quiet momentarily.

Lyra mumbled angrily, with a consistent glare in her eye and a growl in the back of her throat.

"Shut it." The Jiralhanae barked, as he continued to escort Lyra towards the brig.

[BetaWülf]

Ruuhtian Pirate Lord Mag Rog
SDV-Class Heavy Corvette; the "Manifest Destiny"
Well... Time To Spill

Mag drew his mouth back at the corners as his lower eyelids rose and his brow furrowed; letting out an "uuuuuuuggh" sound. He knew the possibility of finding out the truth discreetly had been blown out the airlock, so he really had no other choice than to be honest.

'Damn it all, fish-whiskers and wet bread!' ran through the Pirate Lord's mind, something his grandfather used to spout whenever he hooked himself when the two went fishing when he was a lad.

"The idiotic individual that was just taken from our presence is, was..." Mag said with a sigh, rubbing his with his hand for a brief moment "...my right... left hand I suppose; she had up until this moment been a trusted operative of mine, now... now I don't really have the words" Mag said before continuing on to the more important pieces of information.

"Her name is Lyra... Lyra Koi" Mag said, hoping the Clan name would refresh Kael's memory. "Her entire Clan was wiped out, and according to the tales, you were the one who did it"

"She has wished you dead a thousand times over since she was a chick, but I forced her to leave you be, with my Security Master Parn supposedly keeping a constant eye upon her" Mag said, a hiss to his tone when he mentioned the soon to be sorry Parn.

"She had been too valuable to simply discard, and I never would have thought her foolish enough to try to confront you... obviously I was mistake...."

"I told her I would ask you about it, to at least see if I could not give her something to ease her heart, but I would never have allowed her free range of the ship if I knew this would happen" Mag said, sighing once more.

"This occurrence is inexcusable, and an apology does not even begin to make up for it, but I offer one nonetheless" he said, thoroughly mortified by the situation at hand. "Name a price, a want, a desire, and I will do everything in my power to make it so to rectify this wrong" Mag said, apologetically but honestly.

[Faclan]

Kael Gel, T'vaoan Champion
Manifest Destiny Observation room and hallway.
Understanding Mama bird?

Kael holstered her pistol as she stood in front of Mag and listened. Looking pretty neutral right as she nodded occasionally at the explanation. When a name and more importantly a Clan name she tilted her head to the side ever so slightly and narrowed her eyes as she tried to remember that group. Koi....Koi. Koi's Corsairs? That group of thieves and boat burners? Some more eye narrowing as Mag finished up his explanation of the events. And her beak returned to an upright position as she hummms quietly and considered what had been revealed, holding her left wrist with her right hand as she did so. Before finally speaking up.

"At the moment, Lord Rog, just continuing toward Eayn will be fine. Arriving when you did to save me from being riddled with Human Rounds is fine for me. The trip and that when you didn't need to do either will square the deal away. But I remember the group she used to be a part of. Koi's Corsairs, a group of pillagers and pirates who interfered with trade routes. I didn't personally join in the extermination," harsh. "But I was part of the council of Nests that found their base of operations and wiped out their threat. I suspect my name was spoken about from the event since Gel was the largest Nest in that council. They were given warning but continued, and so were removed as a threat." If only the same could be said for that Sunk Sisterhood - but they were too wide spread at this point to easily eliminate.

But after she finished Kaels glaring expression softened a bit and she sighed before saying something that likely shocked Mr Mag. "I'll go speak with her...she has lost a lot despite what led to her former Clans death...I finally understand that feeling. And if she's working with you it would be better for everyone if she wasn't always looking for murder." And with that she patted Mags shoulder as she moved past him, a sign of respect to be sure for one of high Social standing to reach out to Mag as an equal. "I'll remember your support for future dealings Lord Rog - and shall see you after the chat." Moving into the hallway she was soon heading toward the Brig to settle the turbulent waters, hopefully.

(Hope that's alright Remnant - feel free to have her show up in the Brig in your post, probably making Lyra worry shes about to be executed :3. )

[Remnant]

Lyra Koi, Master of Raiding
Manifest Destiny
The Hands of Fate.

Lyra pounded her first against the energy barrier that locked her in the cell. She received a slight shock in return, but she shook it off rather quickly. She was infuriated. To be contained in such a fashion, no where to go. No way to escape. Unless... No. She wasn't going to try to escape, Mag was full of enough rage as it was. She needed to calm down, and simply await her fate.

As if on cue, Kael had arrived within the brig. Lyra did not feel fear, but rather a sense of resentment. Was Lyra really in the wrong here? Perhaps. But what had the Gel come to do here? Personally execute her? Spare her? Lyra was curious, but lacked any fear. She was a stubborn yet stoic bird. She faced death many times before, and this would be no different. If she were to die here today, so be it. Lyra would resign to her fate with her dignity still intact.

[Faclan]

Kael Gel, T'vaoan Champion
Manifest Destiny Brig
Testing the waters.

It was a good bonus to this generally poor journey, in mental anguish sense and now from some of the crew turning hostile, that Kael could remember her way around a vessel like this. The pictures helped but Kael wasn't really looking at them as she mainly just made sure she didn't run into anyone as she walked. Thankfully most of the crew moved aside as she approached but besides a few nods Kael was silent. Thinking about what she was actually going to say to this Lyra. Someone who rightly should resent her for ordering the execution of her clan and family. No matter what that former group had done Kael had been part of the leadership council that ordered them dead. It may have been just punishment, but that wouldn't resonate with a victim.

Stopping outside the brig Kael stood there with her hand on the 'open' button, not pressing it yet as she thought. It would have likely been better if she hadn't survived so she wouldn't have to live through that and the years of loneliness afterwards. And if it was revealed what clan she was in most of the Spacer Kig-Yar would likely not trust her for being a former trade route pillager. It would be like being a known pirate. Some would respect, but most would turn away.

"Mistress Gel?"

Glancing to the side Kael stared at the Ruuthian for a few seconds, crewmen and not of her Entourage, before sighing and rolling her head around and taking a breath. "I'm alright, thank you for the concern. Just going to be an interesting chat."

"Chat Mistress?"

"With this vessels Raid Master, about her past."

The Ruuthian sucked in a breath and then bowed his head as she skirted around Kael. "I wish you the best Mistress, but am of course confident in your ability." And then near scampered down the hallway. It at least gave Kael a little smile as she pushed the open door button and entered the brig proper.

She was surprised that Mags Jiralhanae muscle wasn't in her but he had likely already been radioed that she was on her way and to leave. Lyra would have been stripped of her weapons before placed in a cell - so she couldn't attack Kael. Not counting what would likely happen to the other female in melee. So he wouldn't be needed. But upon seeing the Raider standing tall and facing Kael from behind her cell Kael just nodded as she walked over to be in front of the cell. Matching the others stance as she took a second time sizing her up. She was a warrior no mistake - and had seemed to do well for herself compared to the reports of the Corsairs she had read all those years ago. And after around ten seconds of staring Kael finally spoke up. 

"You have done well to get where you are now, re-gaining your clans honor. Perhaps their is hope for that name yet..." A short pause. "For what its worth, Koi, it was unfortunate that such drastic measures needed to be taken."

(Who knoooows how Lyra willll takkkke thatttt Remnant .)

[Remnant]

Lyra Koi, Master of Raiding
Manifest Destiny
Troubled Waters.

"'Unfortunate' and 'drastic' are understatements. Do you realize that you slaughtered an entire clan? Down to the last chick? All because of the actions of some foolish pirate lords?" Lyra questions were finally out. Perhaps now she'd get some answers.

"Was it not so simple to simply assassinate the three patriarchs and their subordinates? Did everyone they dictated over have to follow suit? There were innocents who wanted no part of those raids. You could have freed us, Gel. And yet you chose to massacre us instead. You slaughtered us like we were all guilty. You failed to realize that we didn't have a choice. We were forced to commit our lives and arms to the tyrants, or risk being put to death anyway."

"But you don't care, do you? All you saw was a clan that posed a threat, and you found it necessary to wipe it out. I pray every last Gel is consumed by the fires of chaos and war. Especially you, Champion." Lyra spoke in a cold, nearly dead tone.

She hadn't realized it, but her rage had come to a boil. Tears welled in her eyes, and her emotions were melded into a pure fury. She quickly punched the energy shield, receiving a rather painful shock. But it didn't compare to the emotional pain she experienced now. At this point, she didn't care if she showed weakness from this sorrowed display. All she wanted was her kinsmen back, her clanmates. Her home.

But it was too late for that.

Everything she once held dear was gone now.

Forever.

[Faclan]

Kael Gel, T'vaoan Champion
Manifest Destiny Brig
Spilling the beans.

Kael's expression would slowly start to crack as Lyra railed against her and all of Gel for what happened...It was the report they had given of the event. A message to all others who may raid that there would be no mercy for their continued piracy. Not for the raiders or their families that they held so dear. The Champion's face slowly falling into sadness as she took some steps backwards to grab a chair that was against the far wall before dragging it back to be in front of Lyras cell, Kael not able to look at her anymore as she slumped down into it and held her face in her hands.

After taking a few breaths to get her breath back she slowly raised up her head to look not at Lyra but the corners of the wall around the cell, not spotting any obvious cameras she grred some - at least the door was closed.

"Rog...you better mute this so that only you can hear it, this will not be leaving this room!"

With that done she turned to Lyra and straightened up a bit, but still seated, and spoke up. "Alright Koi - you are right to hate me for what 'happened' but you also don't know the whole story. Yes, we Gel are monsters because we slaughted all of them - we wanted that to be what was known from the event. Make all others who thought of raiding reconsider their life choices before our rage was brought down on them. But that's not what we actually did."

Another look around the room. "We we arrived at your little clan grounds we blocked all outgoing communication so you could not report as to what was happened, and then broadcast to everything we could that those who wished to life, give up the life forced on them, could. Just retreat to the coast with no weapons and they would be given amnesty to the crimes of their Commodores."

She stood up now and rested a hand on the cells force field. "I assume you won't believe me, but several of your clan took the offer, fleeing from the insane leaders who even when faced with death foolishly continued to fight. We knew they would force those close to them to fight for them - and tried to save them. We did. But your former leaders turned their weapons on their own citizens when we closed into the Keep...We did what we could. And once we land and I meet with Commodore Gel I will take you to meet the survivors of Koi. We are just keeping their existence a secret for now so the message stays strong and for the hate of the smaller nests to die down - as many would attack us to get at you lot who murdered their families and stole their livelihood. And there has been enough death in this idiotic feud already..."

She then slumped back in the chair and wiped her eyes. Waiting and ready for the continued shouts of Lyra.

[Remnant]

(Sanctioned necroposting!)

Lyra Koi, Master of Raiding
Manifest Destiny
...What?

Lyra sank to her knees.

What?

That one word, that one question, filled Lyra's mindscape. Her beak dropped well before the Gel had finished her explanation. The tears continued to flow from her eyes, but no longer from rage. No, her wrath had turned into something else. An emotion she hadn't experienced for quite some time. She didn't even know what to call it. Sadness? Regret? No. It was emptiness. All she felt was emptiness. A void within her hardened heart, breaking the mental walls and barriers she had put up for years. Memories flooded her thoughts. The slaughter that took place, what could only be called genocide. Charred bodies, burned out nests, a destroyed colony. Lifeless chicks were scattered amongst the debris, their mothers still cradling them. The terrified face of the greedy Patriarchs as they made their last stand, using their wives as shields. While Lyra wasn't present at the start of the battle, she was there for the bitter end. She witnessed one of her own siblings being executed, to which she quickly dispatched the Gel executioner. Only her and Jax had made it out that day, along with a small cell of survivors - or so she had thought. The once-proud warrior and veteran raider had become a hollow shell; a shadow of her former self. Here, before her sworn enemy and nemesis, she broke.

Looking up at the Champion with an empty gaze, her tears dried and no longer dripping, Lyra spoke softly.

"I... don't know what to say." The Master of Raiding, for the first time in her battle-scarred life, was utterly speechless.

[Faclan]

(Kael aint the Commodore just the next in line)

Kael Gel, T'vaoan Champion
Manifest Destiny Brig
The first step of a long journey.

With her explanation and outpouring of emotion to match emotion Kael was able to compose her self as Koi worked to try and compute the truth she had just been shared. Able to take a few deep breaths and clean her face off as she eye rolled a little at the situation. Not even fourty rooks ago both her and Lyra were shooting at each other. Intending to kill. And here they were basically crying together like two young females who were gutted that only 80% of the males wanted to bed them not the full 100%. But with her time to get herself together complete Kael was now standing looking down at Lyra as she collapsed. Which she decided was a bad look for the bridge she was trying to extend to the raider so instead sat down again as the response was given.

Kael just shrugging at the statement before she added in after. "Neither do I. Honestly I am impressed you seem to believe me. Many when faced with perception defying truths such as that you are not the last would deny it. Try to hold onto their own reality and not have it turned on its head by this." A head bob. "It shows good maturity or perhaps desperation. Mature that you are willing to believe something that challenges a truth you held. Or desperation that you want to see more of your former Nestmates again." She shrugged. "I can't promise anything as I was not with the catalog crew as to who still lives. But perhaps some of them remember you as well as I assume you were part of the few that ran."

Standing up again only to pace as the Gel moved from one side of the room to the other. "I won't try to tell you how to feel about me or my home Clan. But perhaps this could be the start of a journey," sticking out her tongue at the word. Damn Sangheili and their Great Journey. "Of recovery. Living with revenge as you're only mindset is...toxic to you and everyone around you. I'd know."

[Remnant]

Lyra Koi, Master of Raiding
Manifest Destiny brig
Emotions. Yuck.

Revenge. That single word had stuck around a lot longer than most. It was many things to Lyra. A goal, a direction, a burning emotion mixed with rage and animosity. It was an all-consuming fire that drove her to where she was now. For fifteen years, Lyra had served as a faithful member of Mag Rog's crew aboard the Manifest Destiny. She earned her way to become the Master of Raiding through sheer tenacity and force of will. It all led back to that one word. That one desire to be achieved, a way to avenge her fallen nest and bring vigilante justice to their murderers. Revenge.

Lyra stared into the Champion's eyes, her own filled with rage and disgust. The staring contest lasted at least a minute before Lyra eased her posture, relaxing the grimace on her face, her eyes no longer radiating hate. All emotion drained out of her body as she continued to process the revelation at hand. Standing up, squaring her shoulders and presenting herself as the veteran Master of Raiding that she was, Lyra held out her hand. A Human gesture that Lyra had learned in her time with dealing with the so-called "Rebel" arms-dealers. The gesture was instinctive, almost reflexive. She wasn't sure if the Gel would take it - let alone understand it - but she wasn't willing to withdraw her hand once offered, if only to not look foolish.

"Indeed, I do believe you." Lyra started. "I've fought both for and against our kind through many conflicts, your nest in particular being one of my preferred targets. In my tenure, I've learned to sniff out liars and deceivers. You are neither." Lyra paused, hand still held out. "While I'm aware that I'm in no position to bargain, I offer a truce. The irony of the situation is not lost upon me." Lyra finished speaking, waiting for Kael's response.

[Faclan]

(Id imagine it would be energy field cells but bars can work :>)

After the lengthy stare had been completed Kael nodded. Mainly to herself but not trying to hide it. Lyra had submitted to her presence. This was good. It means progress was being made and the Champion still held the current cards to be played when needed. It was all coming together rather well. It was funny how Aecors currents flowed as before today she had almost forgotten about Koi and what they had done. Kael had just filed them away as Sisterhood fools who needed a good hiding. Sure it was nice that they were able to save some but Kael was mainly there to kill. As she had been trained to do. But here she was offering life and salvation. Funny how life works like that.

Her eyes slowly sliding down to the hand that was now stuck in her direction through the bars of the cell. Before snapping back to to Lyras face as she exclaimed her belief in a brighter future. In such a Human type of gesture too. How quaint. But - Kael reasoned as she started to raise up her own hand, she had started this journey to reconvene with her Mama and try to start to mend the bridges she herself had detonated. Another act of forgiveness was nothing extra to what this trip would be like for her. Hells perhaps it would even be good practice for the Commodore she would have to face in disgrace.

So Kael took the hand and gave it a shake. "I'm glad we could come to an understanding - though in the end it is up to Captain Rog if you are to be punished for attacking a passenger Raid Lead." A sproing heard as the blade on Kaels shaking hand extended to now be rather close to Lyras gut as she kept her hand held tightly. "And no, you are not. I would suggest you tread carefully Koi - especially on the homeworld. Many remember better than I did the murders your nest preformed and thefts they benefited from. And they will not be as willing to talk as I. So you would do well to keep a low profile and not reveal your birth clan." Letting Lyra's hand go as she flicked her arm back to recollapse the blade.

(Unsure of BetaW will come back so we could timeskip to Eayn if wanted with some explanation of how the trip went. Either soon or in a few posts.)

[BetaWülf]

Ruuhtian Pirate Lord Mag Rog

SDV-Class Heavy Corvette; the "Manifest Destiny"

Moving Forward


Mag took heed of Kael's words and blocked all monitoring of her and Lyra's revelations save for his own. By this time he himself was heading towards the brig, though he knew it best to wait outside a fair while and wish his subordinate luck. He was Lord and Master of this vessel, and he would stand for his crew in the face of terrible adversity, but he was no fool when it came to the Clan Gel. Kael was calm and understanding, but treading cautiously seemed the most advisable course of action. Lyra might leave unscathed from Kael's demeanor, but could just as easily be spared but with a maiming. If left intact a punishment for insubordination would be necessary, the harshness laying in his hands ultimately.

He truly empathized with Lyra's plight, but he couldn't risk being seen as weak; nor would he suffer a blemish to his authority's weight and severity. It was a daily battle to maintain the respect and fear of his crew, as a male being in a position of authority was a heavy matter coming from a matriarchal species. Even moreso a struggle when dealing with the other species of the Covenant, though the other Kig-Yar could relate better to his having to stomach the occasional disrespect of a Sangheili or Jiralhanae.

He spent a long moment outside the brig, waiting for enough time to pass before entering. His claw trailed up the doorframe, snaking it's way up to the door mechanism, making a light scraping sound as it went. The door opened, the Shipmaster peering in to see the tail end of Kael's arm moving. Her blade wasn't out and Lyra's entrails were still internalized; how auspicious. He cleared his throat, then took one long step into the room.

"I see you two have had time get more properly acquainted, are disembowelments and insubordination tabled for the rest of the voyage or shall escorts be arranged?" Mag said dryly but not without an edge of humor, though he could read the room well enough to know there was still some palpable tension in the air, though considerably less so than beforehand.

[Remnant]

Lyra Koi, Master of Raiding
Manifest Destiny brig
Awaiting Punishment

Under normal circumstances, Lyra would have met threats with overwhelming force. These were nowhere near normal circumstances. Perhaps for the first time in her life, Lyra swallowed her pride and let the Gel have her threat display. She offered no resistance to the blade pressed to her gut, or the ominous warning that came with it. Lyra knew when to admit defeat. Alas, revenge is a dish best served cold. Although her offer and desire of peace was genuine, pettiness was still an option - she'd find a way to get back at the Gel sooner or later. Payback was a bitch.

Lyra turned her head towards Mag just as he entered the room. Snorting at his question, she replied with equal sarcasm. "If my innards aren't about to be strewn about this vessel like an abhorrent parade, I'll be very disappointed in you, Lord Mag." Lyra chirped out with the faint hint of a huff.

Cracking a smile, she gave a low, curtsied bow. Another Human gesture, although more archaic and historically limited to females of the race. "I humbly await whatever punishment you deem necessary, o glorious one. Just don't expect me to beg." Lyra snarked, the last bit stated with a cold demeanor. Stepping away from the bars, she knelt down in submission - a clear indication if there ever was one that she'd fully cooperate with whatever was about to transpire. In truth, her sarcasm and rebelliousness towards Mag was a front, to keep from showing any hint of weakness. In reality however, she had seen what Mag could do to his insubordinate lackeys that refused to fall in line. In this moment, she felt true fear. Even the Gel couldn't inspire this type of atmospheric dread, that of an air of terror and suspense.

[Faclan]

BetaWülf Remnant

Turning to face Mag as he entered the room, though Kael knew full well he had been listening too and likely watching everything, Kael shrugged. "Such punishments are best reserve for the master of the vessel. I am simply a passenger here at your generosity Lord Mag. And acquainted is a word for it. Deals as well as information has been shared enough for a working relationship to be established - Lord Mag." She started to move toward the door however as she turned back to Lyra. "I still mean what I said Lyra - but it will be after I reconnect to Commodore Gel. I trust you will find the keep of your previously most hated enemy a fun day trip site." Before turning back to the door. "We have a lovely execution ground for public viewing." Before out the door she went. Calling back to Mag. "By your leave I will be retiring to sleep Lord Mag. If you wish for further discussions, I will happily join you after sleep."

She didn't expect Rog to kill Lyra. He would have entered the room with weapon draw if that was the case. But she had almost likely doomed Mag to be an outlaw to the host system and word of a bounty would likely spread quick if Kael turned up dead on his vessel. His responsibility. So Kael was sure there would be some consequences for such an almost career ruining blunder. But she had done what she could to still show that Mag had the power in this situation. Not only because she understood what he had done to get where he was but well because she did respect him. He had been in the room when Garatus had beaten her to the floor for not kissing the chair cripples ass. She counted him as a connection worthy of maintaining. Not a trusted ally yet as he was still a Pirate and so could eventually be swayed to another side through boons but someone she would do well to keep contact with.

She would need lots of those if she wanted to try and repair what she had ruined years ago with Gel. Mama was getting old. The Clan would need her soon to be more than a pissed off missile to be pointed at the Nests enemies.

[BetaWülf]

Ruuhtian Pirate Lord Mag Rog
SDV-Class Heavy Corvette; the "Manifest Destiny"
Tempered Harshness

Mag listened to Lyra's joking response dryly. While he had entered the room with a modicum of humor, his features had hardened into a hardly describable look. Was it hatred, malice, seething rage? Could be anyone's guess, but whatever it was it was cold, distant, and unyielding. He took a long moment staring her down, unblinking, lacking even the barest hint of amusement. When Kael spoke, he turned to face her listening intently. He dipped his slowly and with care, acknowledging and returning the respect given to him by her.

"I appreciate your candor in this situation, I would hate to sour the chance to make a lasting friendship with you and your Clan venerable Champion" he turned his head slowly to the side to briefly regard Lyra before turning back to Kael "I think it would be in everyone's best interest if we were to downplay this incident, nothing more than the upstart officer getting put in their place by a senior member of the military; assuming that is agreeable with you Kael Gel?" Mag asked the Champion openly.

"Now of course..." he said turning to towards Lyra "Such an overstep must be punished... fittingly" he said slowly sauntering to the cell.

He glowered inwards at his subordinate, his prosthetic blade dragging slowly and sharply up the wall adjacent the console leaving surprisingly noticeable scratch in the metal plating. He cocked his head to the side in an unmistakably avian manner, sizing Lyra up. He looked back over his shoulder to Kael "Why of course Mistress, sleep well and if you need anything don't hesitate to ask; perhaps we could talk later over tea?" he said kindly.

Though kind was the furthest thing from describing his expression once turned back to Lyra. Mag waited for the door to close behind Kael before letting the task at hand begin. His eyes darted savagely as his mind raced thinking of all the things he could do, every cruelty he'd doled out to his enemies, and worse yet allies that'd broken his trust.

"I recall a time when I saw promise in you, raw potential just waiting to be tapped" he said plainly "Just waiting to be molded and tempered under careful guidance, but one of us was clearly a fool; likely myself it would seem"

"Under normal circumstances I'd spend the rest of this voyage torturing you 'til you break, leaving an unrecognizable husk of being where once a proud warrior stood" he said coldly "But I don't have that luxury as I want this incident to be as forgettable as possible"

"But know this, if you ever think of stepping out of line again I'll do that much and worse without a moments hesitation for you almost cost me decades of toil in one short encounter" he said with a deep and throaty reptilian hiss, his bladed arm singing through the air in a blur to Lyra's throat "You will be subjected to a formal reprimand, a public punishment, and a series of discreet degradations to make up for the dozen things I'd like to do to you but can't without making your idiotic misstep the talk of the ship" he snarled, the tip of his blade dragging shallowly down to lyra's collarbone, the tip digging in in successively deeper twists of the tip as purple blood oozed from the wound deep enough to grate on her bone briefly.

Mag turned without a word, slowly stalking towards the door of the brig.

[Remnant]

(OOC: Probably good to do the timeskip now. I'll leave it to the poster after mine.)

Lyra Koi, Master of Raiding
Manifest Destiny brig
In Thought

Lyra's stay for the rest of the voyage was uneventful. She was trapped inside a cage, unable to go anywhere and do anything but think. Her whole life had been a lie built on the foundations of revenge and seething hate. Her clan had been massacred ruthlessly and relentlessly, the sins of the mother - or fathers, in the case of the Pirate Lords - passed to their children. Aecor had shown no mercy that day, harvesting every living soul like a scythe to a field, using the Gel as Her instrument. It was for this reason Lyra had never been overtly religious. She believed that the Goddess did indeed exist, but she also believed that She wasn't benevolent. She was a ruthless Goddess at the top of the food chain. The Koi had actually regarded Her as the long-lost Pirate Queen of Eayn, set to return to the sails when the time is right, to bestow in a new Golden Age of Piracy and Plunder. For now, She existed in the realm beyond the living, pillaging across the Heavens and the stars.

Lyra snickered at the thought. Acting out of character, she sent a small prayer to Aecor, to bring her some form of blessing on this trip. Perhaps the discovery of her once-thought-dead clan would be blessing enough. She still couldn't get over the thought of that. For all her life, her clan was dead. Now they aren't. The Gel offered them refuge but made it seem like they commited genocide. The rat bastards. Now would be an excellent time to get back at them. Lyra thought to herself. A plan was beginning to hatch. Rally the Koi, escape with them. Reunite with her family. Live the life that was robbed from her. Perhaps kill a Gel or two in the process, satisfy her unyielding need for vengeance. A mental picture of the Champion appeared in her head. Although she never met the Commodore and had no idea what she looked like, a mental silhouette of her appeared in Lyra's head as well.

Shaking the violent thoughts from her head, Lyra focused on her Clan first. The Koi were the most important. The Gel and their atrocities could wait. This was her homecoming.

[Faclan]

(Schemes abound!)

After a sleep and some travel time.

Slicing off a section of the roast that Mag and Kael were currently sharing Kael chortled to herself. It was freeze dried, and not moist at all. But damnit if that didn't matter now. It was a taster of home that was to come. Taking a sip of tea before she spoke. "Will you be staying once we land Lord Mag? It would be my honor to host you at my keep as a guest of honor." A smile. "I'm sure the Fluffs would love to hear about your tales of pillaging and murder for your own gain. That will give them reason to train harder." A few more chomps of food before she decided to broach the subject of the raid lead that may still be sitting in her cell or sent on some punishment before landing.

"I trust you heard the basics of what happened between Lyras Nest and mine but it would be good to hear the story from my side I suspect. As I'm sure Lyra has told you her recollection of the events herself." Chomp chomp. "Her nest was led by a triad of bullies. Three males who must have been raised rather poorly to be as greedy and vicious as they were. Which is normally fine but they went far beyond. Beyond the realm of personal preservation. They came to power at a time of relative stability in their region of space. So much in fact that the small clans on either side of them had few if any fighters. Their asteroids handled repairs and refueling of Kig and a few Covenant craft. Mining as well for some minerals. Always need more minerals." A peice of sweet popped in her beak. "And so when Koi came a knocking with collars and chains they could do nothing to stop them. And the few vessels that tried to respond to the distress signals before they were silenced were raided as well. Enslaved or tortured to feed their desires for power." She hissed. "We were busy at the time working over the deals of the contract between ourselves, Hul, and Eox so we paid little attention to this power grab in space. How a few vessels were going missing. We could have stopped it much sooner if we would look past our own borders. But we did not. Only when we got a report from a Hul ship we were finally made aware. Before one of theirs confirmed the spotty report. I'm sure their proper citizens had a good life at this time. As they just reaped the benefits of the sorrow of those around them. But one of them did finally sneak off. Inform us of what was going on. They were the first refugee and claimed they didn't agree with the pillaging. I have my doubts."

Refilling her tea as she looked out the window to see Eayn approaching slowly but surely. "We housed them in an old sports complex that we had long since stopped using. Told them that we would offer sanctuary for those who gave up. I doubted they believed us - Gel offering mercy hah! That would go against all of our tales of glory that we love to share." She shrugged. "But we did. It was mainly a Hul and Gel affair to get us to their system under their radar. Landed and jammed their outgoing communication as we tried to find out the truths of the refugees claims." She clenched her hands. "They murdered the chicks of the captured clans on the video call we had. Saying that they would do the same to us. It made the following massacre easier on our minds. Two leaders were slain and one dragged out badly beaten to be publicly executed back in our lands. It served as the perfect distraction to shuttle those who had given up to the complex." She leaned back in her chain and looked up at the ceiling. "I dont know what they will really do there. They have tried to make it a new home but I know they want to leave. I'm sure my Mama will inform me more of whats happened if she even considers talking to me...But we'll find out when we land."

Looking back at Mag as the roast was mostly consumed by the two of them now. "But what of you? Will you continue to Pirate for profit? You yourself saw how little the Bigs in the Covenant care about us. I suspect that will just get worse if tensions continue to raise and this war drags on. I like to think there will be more for we Kig-Yar in the future. One that I would greatly enjoy sharing with you by my side - Lord Rog."

[BetaWülf]

Ruuhtian Pirate Lord Mag Rog

SDV-Class Heavy Corvette; the "Manifest Destiny"

Tea and Talk

"Honestly, Kael Gel, I have considered much in these past days" Mag said, pausing to sip his tea as he looked out the window of his vessel "This war has brought me much profit I cannot deny, through wages of the Covenant and through the joy of piracy; our people's lifeblood" he said, his expression thoughtful as he regarded the approaching homeworld.

"I enjoy your spirit and your mind, both here as a companion to pass the time with and as a fellow leader and fighter; keeping strong ties seems to me to be a wise and welcome course of action" he said with a smirk "Between the power of Clan Gel and my ties to the pirate world and my dear Sister leading Rig's Rest colony I can see much gain to be had by sharing prizes of battle, trade, and intel" he said, turning from the window to face his dining companion more properly.

He paused for a moment, considering his subordinate Lyra and her Clan's remnants "I recall my younger days hearing about Gel's final dealing with Koi, even encountered some of the wretches during the high days of their little tyranny; sent them to Aecor's embrace in the inky black depths of the void" he said with a small chuckle at the end recalling watching their vessel implode "I took Lyra into my crew full well aware of her ties, though I heard like most what your Clan and allies wanted us to hear, so I took pity on the last of her people I knew of hoping they could find a new and better path beyond the prying eyes of the homeworld's powers" he sighed, nudging a piece of meat with a knife that looked better suited to carving foes than food "Perhaps I was wrong knowing what I do now, but an ember still flickers in the back of my mind for them; those survivors that could lead better lives being sparred your people's wrath"

"Lyra does wander the ship for duty as it stands, she was flogged before the lower crew members for an incident played off as her hubris outweighing her rank so as to not drag anyone besides us into any mire that might be; but besides contributing to the running of the vessel she's confined to quarters and monitored at all times" Mag said candidly "Two T'vaoan and my Jiralhanae guards watch her, and she's faced some unsavory work cleaning the Unggoy's and Jiralhanae's excrement disposal tubes when the hardshells and furlickers are out running drills in the bays; it amuses me that she has to be followed by the very Jiralhanae that she has to clean up after" he said at first plainly but then with a bit of a chuckling warble at the end.

"To your invitation to visit your Clan, I humbly accept your offer and look forward to this unique opportunity to view our homeworld from the shores of one of its great Clans" Mag said, bowing his head slightly in polite respect.

He was truthfully looking forward to this visit, getting new insights into a potential ally and hearing of current affairs on Eayn. He was also honored by the invitation to visit Gel lands, as a Male from a colony he was used to the world and life being an uphill battle where sharp wits and sharper blades were the key to survival and success. But maybe, just maybe he might start stepping more into the respectable world of meeting influential Kig-Yar with whom he can trade secrets, prizes of war, and prestige of the art of piracy. In all truth he was excited.

[Faclan]

"Excellent to hear Lord Rog - should our stay be more than a few days I will see about having some of our Hul mechanics give a look over of your vessel should you desire. Make sure it is still in tip top shape for raiding and flying. We could even formulate an official contract of alliance should you wish. Make it nice and proper like the old days." Glancing out the window into the vast emptiness of space. "I will likely be leaving once I have settled things with the Commodore if I am allowed. Roh is still out there. And I wont let the Humans keep him held in their disgusting fleshy hands."

(Papa G will find him later :>)

She shrugged at the recruitment of Lyra and the possible futures as she commented. "Its always hard to look back and think if you did the right thing. Lyras whole life had been dominated by her desire for revenge. She puts on a brave face now but sooner or later that realization will catch up to her. It will either break her or forge her anew." She glanced down at her wrist blade. "But I will be having some of my clan keep an eye on her once she's met her old clan again. She attacked me once and I wouldn't put it past her to try again. Perhaps even try to lead some last hurrah charge against Gel once shes back with the survivors. I like to think they will choose better for themselves. Choose a new name or keep it just think of something better for themselves. Leave the old life behind." She let out a hefty sigh. "But our species is not known for its stellar future planning or intelligence. Cunning sure, but intelligence not so much."

She turned back to Mag as she took a few more beakfulls of food. "But we'll find out soon enough if she will go down with the ship or reach for a lifeboat from the rescue vessel." Chortling at the punishments as she finished off the meal to go with the tea. Scooping up her cup and gently tiling it. "You went light on her, pirate lord, but I won't tell anyone. Cant be letting you be less than the legends of our past who would force crewmates to eat their own eyes." She returned the bow before finished off her tea. "The pleasure is mine to welcome you. Its humerous to me that not four days ago we barely knew each other. Impressive what a public beating can do to relationships. Let us hope it will be the start of an excellent alliance for the future - maybe we can even get you a tailored waistcoat. That'll help your image in the so called 'high society'." A snicker. "It'll go great with the claw hand."

The two settling into small talk of history and plans as the vessel entered the atmosphere and headed down toward the Gel space port.

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

As the vessel settled onto its landing spot, specially for Covenant vessels with higher platforms for Maintenace, the engines would be given a much needed break after being pushed to get back home at speed. Fuel lines attached as those allowed leave; Mag, Kael, and Lyra included, headed down the gravity lift to the floor of the space harbor. A rather sizable force waiting for them at the bottom. At least twenty five armed and lightly armored members of Gel's coast guard. Kael however kept her face neutral as she strode forward to salute the captain of the guard. The Champion having changed back into her golden armor as the Captain returned the salute before addressing her.

"Kael, Scion of Gel. Welcome home. How welcome this will be for you depends on the will of the Commodore. You will be taken to her now." The massive male looking down at the two directly behind her and nodding. "Your honored guests will be confined to the clan grounds until previous grievances have been hashed out." He stepped aside and gestured to rather nice-looking transport that held six seats in it. Gesturing for the group to enter. Once inside the Captain entered last as the doors shut. The driver soon moving the group off as the remaining coast guard started to move about the vessel to keep watch on it for Mag.

"It is rare to see a Covenant vessel in such excellent shape. You have done well, Lord Rog." The captain would mention as he nodded back at the port. "We will ensure no harm comes to it as you are our guest here." And once a decent ways away from the port the Captain would visibly relax and sigh as he clasped Kaels shoulder. The driver seperated from the passenger compartment by thick smoked glass. "Kael...Mistress you...I'm glad you are back alive." Kael just staring straight ahead as she replied.

"Thank you Ral. I will deserve the punishment she meets out to me. I understand what I did." Ral, easily the oldest in the car, just sighed and flumped back against the seat. It would be a long talk.

Once at the very large Keep the group would disembark. Kaels helmet back on her head as she nodded to Lyra and Mag. "Any of the guards will help you should you need something. We will be visiting your old friends once I am finished here Lyra." She took a deep breath. "You have been patient up to now. Please remain so." Before she turned and walked with Ral behind her through the large doors into the Keep courtyard. Mag and Lyra able to see Zaat Gel, Commodore of Gel, through a window on the far end. Flipping her wrist blades in and out as she waited in front of her desk. Before the blinds over the window was shut.

Much to the dismay of several young T'vaoan fluffs who had slowed down their running around the courtyard to try and see what had Mama Zaat so angry. Before a female blew a whistle. "Pick up those feet!"

The two now free to do what they wished as long as they did not leave. Could go view the academy, the records, get some food, the armory, perhaps even watch an execution!

(Plus anything else you think would be at a major Kiggle settlement.)

[BetaWülf]

Ruuhtian Pirate Lord Mag Rog
SDV-Class Heavy Corvette; the "Manifest Destiny"
Nearing the Homeworld

"I certainly wouldn't be opposed contracting our mutual benefit Kael, though I'd want to bring out something stronger than tea to toast with for such a fortuitous transpiring!" He said, raising his cup with a reptilian chuckle. He became more somber after that, thinking about Kael's son and what he must be going through if he was even still alive. "And I wish you luck in that endeavor, I will be mindful of this in my dealings with the Humans and if I recover anything useful to you; you'll know before even the Hierarchs are enformed"

Mag laughed softly and knowingly at Kael's comment about their species, it was true, there were far more bootlickers and short-lived ne'er-do-wells than leaders and entrepreneurs. "We brave few then" Mag said with a chuckle and small raising of his teacup to the long lives, sharp wits, and venerable careers of himself and his Gel compatriot.

He nodded solemnly at Kael's remark about the ease of his hand with Lyra "Believe you me, it wasn't easy letting her live unmaimed, but I knew if I punished her to my heart's delight it would have been the talk of the ship and a blemish on my reputation" he said with a sigh "Consider it a tactical decision, I rather whip the unruly lightly and let them think I've been merciful than play my full hand in sitting at the gambling deck" he said with a honest, deviant smirk; likely brought on by thoughts of his many backup plans and their gruesome outcomes in his favor "But I assure if she steps out of line she won't be the one eating her own eyes, we could always use them to liven up a cocktail"

"I certainly wouldn't be opposed contracting our mutual benefit Kael, though I'd want to bring out something stronger than tea to toast with for such a fortuitous transpiring!" He said, raising his cup with a reptilian chuckle. He listened as Kael spoke of the humor she felt about their newfound comradery "I admit this isn't where I expected to be, but it is a welcome time nonetheless" he said with a smile "I don't appreciate the way our people are treated even if we don't get the Unggoy's share of dung-drop, and seeing their shallow attempt at shaming you disgusted me to say the least" 

He laughed heartily at Kael's comment about acquiring a fancy coat for rubbing quills with the rich and famous "Do you think it'd be flattering in a rich Gold?" he said jokingly, striking a slight pose with his jest, tucking his good hand into the breast of his uniform and looking off to the side in a faux-stoic fashion.

His laugh trailed off as he thought of if he really would look like a dashing swashbuckler, the conversation moving to the homeworld and many things as they drew ever closer to the shores of home

---

Mag adjusted his chest rig on his combat harness one last time before entering the gravity lift with his companions. He decided formal was best, wearing full military kit and decorations awarded to his service throughout various engagements. Once off the lift he surveyed his surroundings, though he paid more mind to making sure the fuel lines were coupled correctly from his place in line behind Kael. He was... touchy about his ship to say the least. He perked back up when Kael and the Captain of the Guard t began to converse, Mag nodding politely when he'd initially approached. When prompted he headed over to the transport, a rather fine model if he did say so himself. He went in before subordinates on the vehicle but waited for Kael to enter before doing so himself.

"Thank you Captain, it is my pride to maintain and keep such a vessel at peak performance for the standing of all Kig-Yar in the eyes of our peers and allies, and your respect for it is recognized and appreciated; my crew shall work professionally and welcomely with your people" Mag said, a momentary throaty warbling at the end of his statement denoting his appreciation of the Captain's words and sentiment.

Mag remained largely silent for the rest of the ride, trying not to eavesdrop but he could hardly ignore the brief exchange between Kael and this Captain Ral. He scratched under his chin and turned his attention to the view outside the vehicle, what lovely weather they were having. But it was not long before they were exiting the vehicle at their destination.

"Aecor guide you, Kael Gel" Mag said with a final nod, wishing her well after seeing a brief glimpse of Zaat Gel. He watched as she strode away to meet her fate, whatever that may be.

Seeing that done, Mag turned to look over Lyra. She seemed no worse for wear, perhaps resentful, maybe grateful she wasn't flayed and cast into the abyss of space. Regardless, he didn't intend on letting her go far. "Looks like we're at a crossroads, so many activities so little time" he said to her "anything you care to do in the meantime while we wait for the outcome?" he asked, waiting to see how she responded to their current circumstances.

[Remnant]

Lyra Koi, Master of Raiding
Eayn - Gel Keep
For the Pirate Queen

"Any of the guards will help you should you need something. We will be visiting your old friends once I am finished here Lyra." Kael took a deep breath. "You have been patient up to now. Please remain so."

Lyra nodded, before turning her attention to Lord Mag as he wished the Gel farewell. "Looks like we're at a crossroads, so many activities so little time" Mag addressed her. "Anything you care to do in the meantime while we wait for the outcome?" The pirate lord asked, awaiting her response.

"Haven't seen a good execution in a long time. Almost missed mine." Lyra quipped, eyeing the arena not far off from their current position. Lyra's stomach rumbled in protest, loud enough for both parties to hear. "Or perhaps some food would be in order." She attempted to grin at Mag. It was clearly faked, however. The smile was there but the light had left her eyes, replaced by indifference. Lyra struggled to show any type of emotion, positive or negative. She was devoid of feeling as it were. On the one hand, Lyra had definitely overstepped her bounds. By several nautical miles, without a doubt. It wasn't her ship and by extension it wasn't her show. On the other, her closest and most trusted friend had betrayed her in her time of need. Lord Mag knew what the Gel had done to her and her clan, the atrocities that had been committed. It was unforgivable. Nothing could sait the call for justice except for vengeance. The moments between the Koi and the Gel in the brig was a terrible show of weakness, one that wouldn't be repeated - Lyra would make sure of it.

Lyra felt a cold chill hit her spine, like the mist from the sea despite them being so far inland and away from the coast. She felt an air of wonder surrounding her, like a mystical breeze. Perhaps Aecor and Her crew were looking at the Koi with favor today. Only time would be able to tell. Lyra twitched as the chill left her body, then shook her head out of her momentary daze, once again meeting Lord Mag's gaze. "Sorry, what did you say?" Lyra said as she stared towards the open sky, searching for any sign of the spectral ship that the Goddess captained as She sailed through the vast expanse of the cosmos.

For the Pirate Queen. Lyra sent a solemn prayer to Aecor up above.

[Faclan]

(Sorry missed a bunch of Mag chats back in the room BetaW D:)

The group of exercising fluffs attempted to slow down again to get a look at the new arrivals. Most of them eh at Lyra as it was just another T'vaoan but Mag - oh boy - were they staring. Not only a Ruuthian who looked rather official but with a cool blade hand too! One of them piping up as they jogged in place. "Just like a Gel sir! But you took it to the next level! Are you a Pirate?" Asked with such wonder and joy from the youth. The stern looking coach heading over flicking out her wrist where a whacking stick came out rather than a blade. Before she and the fluffs looked up at a crackle over the address system.

"The Gap nest has responded to our warning yesterday by once more attempting to attack our patrol vessels. The two captured Gep clan mates will be executed promptly. Location; training grounds." Well that was fortuitous as the youths looked back at the coach who hissed and threw up her hands. The stick clicking back into its place on her wrist from the motion.

"Fine! Fine. Leave the Honored Guest alone if he doesn't want to entertain you lot but you may all go witness. But when you are back there will be extra laps for two breeches of protocol." The kids cawwing happily before started to head off before turning to look back. Seeing if Mag and Lyra would come too!

---

"Commodore..."

"Kael - sit. Now." The seat quickly occupied as Zaat stayed standing in front of her. "Coming back here was a bold move after how you left last time."

"Commodo-." Was as far as Kael got before her beak was clamped shut.

"I am talking Kael - be silent."

---

As Lyra and Mag were accosted by the Gel youth Ral would return from the Gel keep halls with an Ibie'Shan with him. Ral looked very worried as he had the door to Zaat'a office slammed in his face but the Ibie looked very pleased. He was dressed very smartly and was eyeing Mag like a shark. Before he pulled out a gun and pointed it at the pirate! But then it was just a laser on his arm that was squinted down by the Ibie. "Mmm yes. It has been too long since I have attired our slimmest breed. I shall enjoy making you beautiful Lord Rog," the laser measuring device lowered as he offered a deep bow. "Tip at your service." His other hand now holding measuring tape as Ral managed to speak up.

"He can do this while we walk if you would like to go watch the executions. The children seem to want you to go."

[BetaWülf]

Ruuhtian Pirate Lord Mag Rog
Gel Clan Grounds; Eayn
Oh the Adoring Crowds

Mag looked Lyra up and down when her stomach growled like a sea beast, he was surprised at first but from the deadened look in her eye he wouldn't have been surprised if she was neglecting herself by not drinking or eating properly. His eye quivered for a sliver of a moment, almost sympathetic in nature despite her disastrous defiance previously. "I'm sure we can pick up something along the way to eat, I wouldn't be surprised if there were food vendors at the execution site" he said with a light chuckle, though he frowned at her forced smile.

"I suppose you're not too pleased with me either all thing considered" he said "But you have to think, don't you, what all has transpired from then to now" he said placing a hand on her shoulder.

"I promised you information, yes? And here you are in Gel lands about to reunite with your people" he said "I don't expect you to like or thank me, but you have to know why I chose to ferry Kael" he sighed "She is a paragon of our peoples within the Covenant, strip away her Clan like the Covenant does and look at what she represents; something bigger than you or I. I did it for all of the Kig-Yar, as a show of solidarity; and what better way to find the answers you were looking for? You should have walked away when the Champion arrived in the room you were in, you let your rage and hatred become your master and in doing so nearly destroyed us all; you, myself, and the crew" he said, still clearly frustrated but at least not nearly as keen on her dismemberment. "You hate her? Fine, she's very likely about to suffer a cruel fate at her own mother's hands so let rest what not need stirred for your sake and that of your Clan" he sighed with a reptilian growl, before turning at the peeping up of a young one.

Mag listened with a bit of surprise at the chick's queries about his arm and profession, quite amused "I am both a Pirate Lord and Shipmaster young one" he said with a chuckle.

He listened as the announcement blared much to the delight of the children, who were apparently all too eager to have him go with them to watch the executions. He looked down at the peeping youths gathered around himself and Lyra, looking up as Ral and an Ibie'Shan approached. As the Ibie'Shan raised their arm, there was a momentary quiver of Mag's body; the reflexive instinct to lean back out of the way and draw a firearm almost taking hold. He refrained for the sake of the children and holding the Gel's to their word of safety to their guests, luckily it was a tailor's tool and nothing more lest blood would have spilt. He listened as the tailor, Tip apparently, had designs to beautify Mag. For a brief moment he took it as a jab at his physical appearance, though he knew it was most likely in regard to some finer clothing.

"I would be more than happy to accompany these young Gel fighters, fear not, I shall be not but a good influence" he said with a wink, offering his good hand to the one who had commented on his blade arm. Turning to Ral "That is acceptable, yes" he said with a nod.

"Would you like to hear how I got this?" he said, looking down at the child with a warm but devilish grin.