#OC: Veresia

[lesabear]

5.10 Livestream

(Per Dulfy):

Companion Returns: Doc, Nadia, Jaesa, Khem Val

The Murder Buddies are reunited at last

[lesabear]

OC recruitment meme, Veresia, all odd numbered questions

15  was in my previous reply but here goes!

1. Would they be recruitable? 

Realistically the answer would be no unless it was in vanilla (i.e. before she’s an overpowered member of the Sith Dark Council). But since that’s a boring answer let’s say…yes but with limitations (no Sith or Imperial Agents. And it’d be very difficult to recruit her as a Jedi). And she’d be horribly elitist and love to mention how she’d be way more successful than your character the entire time.

3. When would you recruit them? Vanilla story? an Expac? Post KOTET? 

Vanilla makes the most sense - that way she wouldn’t be as powerful both with the Force and in general, and wouldn’t have the support structure behind her she does at the end of Vanilla.

Post Vanilla she could have a similar thing as Ayrs - striking back at Zakuul on her on or possibly alongside him after losing the initial war. She doesn’t really fit well into the post-Zakuul story, for a variety of reasons.

5. What would their recruitment mission be?

Vanilla recruitment…hmm. I guess something along the lines of her being an escaped slave and so is wanted by the Empire or something. Not a great fit in that regard.

KOTFE/KOTET recruitment would be similar to Ayrs - stories of a lone Sith terrorizing Zakuulan civilians and military alike and not too concerned about a bodycount. Maybe her and Lana know each other from the war or something, to prompt Lana to suggest recruitment.

7. Would there be a character they don’t like? Would that cause you to choose sides? 

She would absolutely detest any ardently pro-Empire, pro-Sith or pro-Jedi characters or companions. She would be disgusted with self-centered characters like Skadge or Vik or OCs (especially smugglers). She would not get along with the likes of Tharan or Doc…to be honest I think she’d probably dislike most of the companions and the feeling would likely be mutual.

She’s probably not a great fit with a companion crew in general given her uh personality quirks and personal opinions. Of my OCs she’d probably be okay-ish with Amurri (sans Skadge) or Ayrs after some therapy and/or during KOTFE/KOTET when he becomes a little less strictly Good morality wise.

9. What would they say if you clicked on them? 

“Do that again and you won’t live long enough to regret it”, “Have you ever heard the sound of a person fried to a crisp by Force Lightning?”, “How far I have fallen to be associated with the likes of you.”

Also probably some threats to kill you.

11. What weapon(s) would they have?

A lightsaber (her father’s, if recruited late enough in the story) and the Force. She’s primarily a caster though.

13. What gifts do they Love? Like? What would they say when you gave them a gift?

Love:

Cultural artifacts - “There is always so much more to learn!” or “Knowledge is power”

Military - “Though our paths diverged it is like nothing has changed.”

Like:

Trophy - “I suppose this will have to do until my enemies’ heads can be mounted.”

Weapon - “Nothing compared to the Force, but this shall do.”

For other types she would sound mostly annoyed and like you were wasting her time. Especially courting gifts.

17. What letter’s would they send post vanillia class story/SOR/KOTFE

If recruited during the Vanilla story/she isn’t on the Council her letter(s) would probably thank the PC for giving her the chance to escape. Her KOTFE era letter would probably reflect her growing independence and desire for vengeance on Zakuul.

Canon Veresia’s letter would be short, condescending and mostly focus on how you should be the one working for her and that if you had been the war would have been over much sooner/more efficiently. It would also probably criticize your robe fashion if you are a Jedi.

If Ayrs was recruited too, you’d get a follow up message from him apologizing for her letter.

[lesabear]

15 and 16 for Veresia and Amitia

15. What do they say when they heal you? What do they say when they are attacking?

Veresia (healing): “I suppose I will help you survive this”, “Avoiding being hit is a better strategy”, “This would be much easier with a Dashade instead of you.”

Veresia (attacking): “The Force flows through me”, “No mercy for those that oppose me”, “You have made a grievous mistake. It shall be your last.”

Amitia (healing): “Don’t worry, I’ve got you!”, “Hang on, I’ll patch you up!”, “I guess I should have paid more attention in Healing class at the Temple”

Amitia (attacking): “I do what I must”, “You’re lucky T7 isn’t here!”,  “You’re making me late for Game of Sith”

[lesabear]

Write Veresia -Down time with Koth

“Well this is awkward,” Vortena said with a wry smile as he took the last available seat - next to me.

“Quite,” I replied coolly. “Though you could remedy that quite easily by leaving.”

He threw his hands up in a defensive gesture. “Hey now, I’m not looking for a fight.”

“You’re smart enough to recognize you’d lose. Good for you.” I feigned a yawn and attempted to stare a hole in the wall. across the room. “It would have been difficult to avoid causing permanent damage.”

“I see why they call you the Dark Lady,” he quipped. “I’d hoped that name was just for show”

“I do not do things ‘for show’,” I shot back. “A lesson the forces of Zakuul have learned many times now.” His expression darkened. I do enjoy striking where one is most vulnerable. “But do not worry, Vortena. I know you have chosen the right side of this conflict and have no sympathy for all those servants of Arcann and Vaylin we have killed.”

“Y-you,” the man sputtered helplessly. “They may have made mistakes, but they were also people. Just like you and me.”

“Some of them, perhaps.” I shrugged. “They certainly died like any other people, at least.”

“You’re a terrible person.”

I sighed, wondering what Amitia saw in the man. “Your observational skills are astounding. Perhaps you could use them to decide whether you’d prefer to leave now, or after I’ve introduced you to some Force Lightning.” I offered him a sharp smile.

“Alright then. I can take a hint.” He gave me a dirty look, before pushing himself up from the chair and lumbering away.

When he was a safe distance away, I turned to face the man sitting on the other side of me, grinning broadly as I extended a hand. “I’ll take your extra rations credit now.”

Rennow sighed loudly. “I should have known better than to rely on Koth’s good nature.”

Khem chuckled from behind us. “You were foolish to doubt the Little Sith. She has a personality that can alienate anyone.”

I chose to ignore that comment and began planning my next scheme instead.

[lesabear]

☀️-Veresia and/or 🎵-Ayrs

Veresia’s first Jedi is technically her dad. The first Jedi she meets when she’s older than a child would be Quorian Dorjis which I’ve written in my long fic - the post can be found on the swtor forums here

As for Ayrs:

♬  OC’s reaction to having to be on Hoth or Ilum.

Maker save me, I hate this planet. So damned cold and not a damn thing interesting enough to justify it. I hope Sergeant Yuun’s gadget is worth it.

“I swear that either the Maker has a nasty sense of humor, or General Garza’s nursing a hell of a grudge against me.” I sighed and peered back at the Imperial positions through my macrobinoculars. “With my luck it’s probably both.”

“And I thought 4X was the paranoid one,” Aric snarked. I thought I heard Elara giggle over the comm channel, but I knew she’d never betray me like that.

“At least he’s got a more pleasant personality than you,” I shot back before shivering again. “Plus he knows how to respect the chain of command.”

“Oh, now you’re worried about respecting the chain of command. I must have been confused from all the times you’ve carefully danced around orders or been coy with Garza during a briefing.”

“You must have also been confused when you started talking, because I don’t remember asking to hear your voice.”

Jorgan chuckled to himself, then went back to calibrating his rifle.

“Perhaps you would be in a better mood if you’d properly reviewed the material on Hoth I provided prior to our arrival in the system. At the very least, you would be more comfortable.” I detected a hint of amusement in Elara’s voice.

“I did read the material, thank you very much. You do see the special sealant to protect against exposure, right?”

She poked my armor near my waist. “And the enhanced insulation I mentioned later on in the material?”

“I mean, it was a lot to read. I had to get everything ready for the mission.” I glanced in her direction, but it was pretty hard to read her expression through an armored helmet. “I tried my best, okay.”

“Mmhmm.” Her voice softened slightly. “When we get back to Aurek Base, we’ll make sure we take care of it.”

I squeezed her hand. “Thanks El-Lieutenant.”

Jorgan coughed loudly. And rudely. “Now I understand why you mentioned your pre-mission routine doesn’t involve polishing your rifle any more.”

“Just shut up, Jorgan.”

He laughed again, but for once he listened. The channel went quiet, and I was left with nothing but the sound of the wind whistling past our position. I shivered through the next couple of minutes.

“Any word from 4X or Vik, Lieutenant?”

“No, Sir.” Elara sounded slightly concerned, like she always did when Vik was involved. “They may be too close to the Imperial position to communicate, though.”

“Maybe. Maker knows what those two might be -”

A loud explosion interrupted me, rocking the Imperial position. Before I could fully process it, a second and then a third one followed, creating a massive fireball that tore through the encampment, destroying it entirely.

“I believe I’ve located our missing squad members,” Elara said drily.

There was a loud braying sound from our right. I turned and saw 4X next to Vik, who was riding one of those damned tauntaun things.

“Sir! I am pleased to report that we were able to locate a fatal flaw in the defenses of that Imperial encampment and were able to exploit it to our full advantage. No longer will these tyrants and enemies of freedom terrorize the denizens of this world!”

I gestured at the snow-covered expanse around us. “Does it look like the denizens of this world felt oppressed, 4X?”

The droid looked around. “Well, I suppose not, Sir, but -”

“Then keep quiet and go get the speeders ready. We were trying to find a stealthy way into the area, but that’s out of the question now.” The droid saluted and walked off. “And Vik?”

The Weequay was grinning like the idiot he was. “What’s up, boss?”

“You’re on latrine duty once we’re back at Aurek.” His grin disappeared. “Now get off that Maker-damned creature and help pack this stuff up.

As we packed our gear for the movie forward, Vik sidled up next to me. “Say, boss. You were joking about the latrine duty, right?”

On second thought maybe I don’t need the Maker to save me. Better to end it all than to be stuck here, with him.

[lesabear]

Do that meme for Ayrs and Veresia too

Okay then!

GENERAL

Name: Ayrs Martell

Alias(es): Meteor, Zildrog’s Wrath (Zakuul AU)

Gender: Male

Age: ~26 when the game starts

Place of birth: Ithaca

Spoken languages: Basic

Sexual orientation: straight

Occupation: Commander of Havoc Squad, general nuisance, wanted criminal (Zakuul AU)

APPEARANCE

Eye color: Brown

Hair color: Brown

Height: 6′3″

Scars: Scar running down his left cheek from a childhood incident. Multiple scars from his career as a soldier

FAVORITE

Color: Blue

Hair color: Brown or blonde

Eye color: Brown or blue

Entertainment: Reading about history, video games on the holo-net, testing Elara’s knowledge of regulations by researching obscure procedure manuals

Pastime: Soldiering, eating, occasional tomfoolery

Food: Nerf steaks and/or burgers

Drink: Alcohol (formerly), caf (later)

Books: Military history and manuals, religious texts

HAVE THEY

Passed university: Yes - military academy on Corulag

Had sex: Yes

Had sex in public: No

Gotten pregnant: No

Kissed a man: No

Kissed a woman: Yes

Gotten tattoos: No/Not yet

Gotten piercings: No

Had a broken heart: Left his high school sweetheart behind to go to the academy - she died during the attack on Ithaca.

Been in love: Yes

Stayed up for more than 24 hours: Yes

ARE THEY

A virgin: No

A cuddler: Yes, though only with specific people

A kisser: No

A smoker: No

Scared easily: Only of 4X

Jealous easily: If you push his buttons right

Trustworthy: Yes, very much so

Dominant: Eh…sometimes?

Submissive: Ditto

Single: No

RANDOM QUESTIONS

Wanted to kill someone: Regularly, and not always Tanno Vik!

Actually killed someone: Various Sith, Imperials, other enemies, etc. Apart from blowing up the Imperial Intelligence agent who betrayed his family, he doesn’t really enjoy it though (apart from particularly nasty Sith)

Ridden a beast: A tauntaun on Hoth

Have/had a job: Commander of Havoc Squad and (later) dad. In the Zakuul AU he is a major resistance figure.

Have any fears: Ayrs suffered from survivor’s guilt due to being away at the military academy on Corulag when his homeworld was attacked, particularly as he did not know Veresia survived until years later. Because of that, he had (and to a much lesser extent still has) a crippling fear of losing people he was close to, a fear of intimacy and a semi-death wish.

FAMILY

Sibling(s): Younger brother Diomedes (dead) and two younger sisters (Veresia and Allyssia)

Parents: Montclair, a former Jedi Knight (dies on a mission for the Order when Ayrs is a teenager) and Valeria Martell (trooper who served with General Garza, dies during the attack on Ithaca)

Children: Three children with Elara

Pets: He eventually gets a large, annoying, dog that he names Fivex

And for Veresia

GENERAL

Name: Veresia Martell

Alias(es): Darth Occlus, The Dark Lady, Little Sith (Khem Val only)

Gender: Female

Age: ~23 when the game starts

Place of birth: Ithaca

Spoken languages: Basic

Sexual orientation: straight, mostly

Occupation: Member of the Dark Council, secret rebel plotting the complete destruction of the Sith Empire

APPEARANCE

Eye color: Dark brown

Hair color: Brown

Height: 5′7″

Scars: Psychological ones

FAVORITE

Color: Orange

Hair color: Brown

Eye color: Brown

Entertainment: Harassing Khem Val, undermining Imperial authority, soap operas

Pastime: Shocking people with lightning, killing people with lightning, attempting the overthrow of a galactic power

Food: A nutritious salad

Drink: The tears of her enemies

Books: Any sort of text that might teach her about the Force and how to use it

HAVE THEY

Passed university: No - she was enslaved before going to university

Had sex: Yes

Had sex in public: No

Gotten pregnant: Not yet

Kissed a man: Yes

Kissed a woman: Yes

Gotten tattoos: No

Gotten piercings: Pierced ears

Had a broken heart: She has (understandably) never gotten over watching her home be destroyed and friends and family killed

Been in love: Yes, though she’s firmly in denial about it

Stayed up for more than 24 hours: Yes

ARE THEY

A virgin: No

A cuddler: Not any more

A kisser: Yes

A smoker: No

Scared easily: No

Jealous easily: Not really.

Trustworthy: Depends very much on who you are, and who she thinks you are/what she thinks your motivations are. If you’re someone she views as an enemy (or even just a potential obstacle)…in general I would say No.

Dominant: Yes

Submissive: No

Single: No, though it’s a bit complicated

RANDOM QUESTIONS

Wanted to kill someone: All the time. She’s kind of an angry person, and it doesn’t help that Khem is constantly egging her on.

Actually killed someone: Regularly, though she’s perfectly willing to find non-lethal means of dealing with people when circumstances call for it (in her mind)

Ridden a beast: I was tempted to make a joke here but let’s just go with no

Have/had a job: Member of the Dark Council, leader of her own cult and she moonlights as a source of intelligence for the Republic/Jedi. In the Zakuul AU, she is a major resistance figure

Have any fears: Her singleminded determination to make everyone she holds responsible for the losses in her life pay has left her afraid of not accomplishing that - she ignores/refuses chances to reclaim what’s left of her old life (i.e. she knows Ayrs is alive but chooses not to find him) or the possibility of a new life (i.e. refusing Quorian Dorjis’ offers to let her join the Jedi) because she can’t stand the thought of not getting her vengeance.

FAMILY

Sibling(s): Dead younger sister (Allyssia), two brothers - Ayrs is alive/older, Diomedes was younger and died.

Parents: Montclair and Valeria (see above)

Children: Yes

Pets: She doesn’t have time for frivolities

[lesabear]

Also/alternatively: Ayrs, Veresia, Amitia, Amurri, Mina, and Teela

Oh, going after my OCs and you left out my 2 nastiest OCs to make it harder.

Push off a cliff: Teela - the odd OC/one out, sorry Teela. She’d probably have some wacky plan to get out of it though (like using Corso as a cushion or parachute).

Kiss: Mina - She’s actually one of my nicer characters so I don’t want her flying off a cliff or like being set on fire. I thought about making her my roommate but I could end up dead so this is probably safer. Probably.

Marry: Ayrs: I mean, I modeled him after my boyfriend and several of my video game crushes so….

Set on fire: Amurri. It was self-defense, I swear. probably wouldn’t work. Probably I end up dead.

Wrap a blanket around: Veresia - Poor girl needs some therapy and time away from the whole “Kill everyone to get revenge” thing she’s got going on.

Be roommates with: Amitia. We could watch Zeena Jedi Warrior Princess/Xena together and write bad fanfic while making fun of Doc. Bonus: She could use her Jedi powers to help me do stuff. We also both like ice cream, which is important if you’re going to live with someone.

[lesabear]

12 for Veresia

12. What have you found to be most difficult about creating art for your OC (any form of art: writing, drawing, edits, etc.)?

Definitely her tone of voice/conversation. Her whole plan is to infiltrate the Sith from within and so she talks in a very formal, even unnatural, way to come across as higher status/more intimidating. As I mentioned in my previous post, I also had her start thinking that way too. And it gets really annoying trying to remember that when writing her, since it is a lot more effort than, say, Ayrs or Amitia’s very casual/natural way of thinking/talking - Veresia uses different words, sentence structure, etc..

[lesabear]

16 & 17 for Veresia :)

16. What is something about your OC  can make you cry?

In a general sense, probably her self-destructiveness. It’s something I can’t directly relate to but have been guilty of in the past myself.

She doesn’t have to do what she does. There’s nothing forcing her to stay in the Empire and try to bring down the Sith/get revenge on them - she knows her brother is serving the Republic and would be thrilled (to put it mildly) to reunite with her. She has family on Kuat, and her father was a respected Jedi. But she can’t let go of that hate and as understandable and sympathetic as that is that’s also slowly destroying her and her chances of having a life she can appreciate outside of the grim satisfaction she gets from killing Sith.

But her story is kind of sad in general - her Jedi father that she was really close to dies when she’s barely a teenage and then a few years after that her family and friends (apart from distant relatives) are basically all killed. She’s captured and sold into slavery until the Imperials realize she can use the Force, and at that point all she can really really think of is making everyone else feel the same pain she did and does. Even the small happy/normal moments she gets (like with Quorian or even occasionally talking to Khem) really only remind her of what she lost and make her feel guilty.

17. Is there some element you regret adding to your OC or their story? 

I actually excised most of it but I was going to have Veresia have feelings for Kory (the nice initiate who gets killed on Korriban). It was really poorly thought out and would have just been for cheap drama, which is why I cut it short after some brief hints, but it’s still there in the older posts.

At times I wish I’d also kept her external voice distinct from her internal one. It might have been interesting hearing her speak/think as a Jedi-trained girl from a farm planet than the same overly-complicated/formal tone she uses when talking. Oh well :/

[lesabear]

15 OC Associations

I was tagged by @kaosstar and @theswtorblog so I’ll do my two main characters, one for each. I will tag anyone who wants to do this, plus @depizan and @spaceywaceynerd

First we’ve got dashing trooper Ayrs Martell

1. ANIMAL: Lion 2. COLOR(S): Havoc orange and white 3. MONTH: July 4. SONG(S):  Here I Go Again - Whitesnake, Everything I Own - Bread, Honor (Main Theme) - The Pacific 5. NUMBER: 25 6. DAY OR NIGHT: Day 7. PLANT(S):  Redwood tree 8. SMELL(S): Sweat, Elara, Victory 9. GEMSTONE: Sapphire 10.SEASON: Spring 11. PLACE(S): His Thunderclap, Coruscant (apartment), Ithaca (homeworld) 12. FOOD(S): Nerf steak, nerf burgers, nerf jerky, potatoes 13. ASTROLOGICAL SIGN: Leo 14. ELEMENT(S): Earth 15. DRINK(S): Alcohol (pre-character development) -> Less alcohol and more caf (post character development)

And slightly less personable younger sister Veresia

1. ANIMAL: A particularly angry ferret 2. COLOR(S): Red, black and gray 3. MONTH: November 4. SONG(S): Coming Home - Diddy (feat Skylar Grey), Bittersweet Symphony - The Verve, Losing My Religion - REM 5. NUMBER: 11 6. DAY OR NIGHT: Night 7. PLANT(S):  Rose 8. SMELL(S): Electrocuted enemies, lavender, fear 9. GEMSTONE: Ruby 10.SEASON: Winter 11. PLACE(S): Nar Shaddaa (personal cult), secret space station base 12. FOOD(S): Small pastries, ration bars 13. ASTROLOGICAL SIGN: Scorpio 14. ELEMENT(S): Fire 15. DRINK(S): The tears of her enemies, Khem Val’s personal tea recipe

[lesabear]

Veresia or Amitia for the meet the muse meme? :)

Veresia it is

➥ What is your character’s full name?: Veresia Martell aka Darth Oculus➥ When were they born?:  Born on Ithaca in 3664 (or so) BBY➥ What are their parent’s names?: Montclair and Valeria Martell (both deceased)➥ Do they have any brothers or sisters?: Older brother (Ayrs), two deceased younger siblings (Allyssia and Diomedes)➥ What kind of eyes do they have?: Dark brown. There’s occasional warmth to them but if they show emotion it’s usually anger bordering on rage.➥ What kind of hair do they have?: Dark brown - she keeps it in the style she wore growing up to help hold on to her old identity.➥ What is their complexion like?: Years of Sith slavery/Sith “adventuring” have taken some toll on her (though since to the miracles of Bioware morality systems she is actually a LS Sith!)➥ What body type are they?: BT2 - slim and athletic but she’s largely neglectful of her physical training (Both in general and with a lightsaber specifically). ➥ What is listening to their voice like?: Like Mina, you generally are wondering if she’s being genuinely nice or plotting to kill you. Throw in some snark and slight instability.➥ What do they hate most about themselves?: Veresia is primarily motivated by an unhealthy desire to destroy the Sith and (to some vague extent) Imperial institutions and people she views as responsible for what happened to her family, but deep down realizes (1) she won’t be able to do it and (2) she’d be better off not trying and instead finding some other path for herself. But she can’t let go of that anger.➥ Do they have a favorite quote?: “And now,��� said the unknown, ‘farewell kindness, humanity, and gratitude! Farewell to all the feelings that expand the heart! I have been heaven’s substitute to recompense the good - now the god of vengeance yields to me his power to punish the wicked!”   (Alexandre Dumas)➥ What sort of music do they enjoy?: I don’t think she really listens to music much. Maybe angry classical music.➥ Have/would they ever cheat(ed) on a partner?: She hasn’t so far. She might cheat on Quorian if the situation demanded it…➥ Have they been cheated on by a partner?: No➥ Have they ever lost someone close to them?: Her family and friends on Ithaca (sans Ayrs). Fellow initiate Kory on Korriban.➥ What is their favorite sound?: The sound of Force Lightning crackling in the air.➥ Are they judgmental of others?: Oh is she ever - she’s basically the polar opposite of her brother and in some respects similar to Malicineve. Get on her bad side (or reveal complicity in what she views as unforgivable activities) and you won’t escape her wrath. That she herself is an unrepentant murderer is beside the point.➥ Have they ever been drunk?: Her life doesn’t really lend itself to getting drunk without putting her life in danger. Maybe on the anniversary of her family’s death/her enslavement.➥ What are they like when they stay up all night?: Probably even angrier than usual, to the extent of creeping out even Khem Val.➥ Have they ever been arrested?: No - she’s captured by Imperial-aligned forces and sold into slavery but after that she’s a Sith and so beyond the law.➥ What evokes strong memories for them?: Encountering families, like with Ayrs. Any kind of strong/healthy emotional bond makes her jealous and miss her family and friends. Farmworlds/quiet mid-rim type planets remind her of home.➥ What do they do on rainy days?: Plots the destruction of the Sith Empire➥ What religion are they?: Agnostic/Sith-ish. Her father was a Jedi and she once held the Order on a pedestal but now she views them as too weak to do what needs to be done.➥ What word do they overuse the most?: Something snarky. When writing her I probably use phrases like “It would not do” or “She would not admit to [x]” too much.➥ What do they wear to bed?:A conservative nightgown, especially given the people on her ship➥ Do they have any tattoos or piercings?: A piercing on each ear➥ What type of clothing are they most comfortable in?: Dark, oppressive, robes➥ What is their most disliked food?: Spicy food, especially if she’s just finished a hard day of killing people that 100% totally deserve it➥ Do they have any enemies?: Basically everyone except certain intelligence people that want to use her for various reasons (Mina, Vharmir) and her brother, and that’s without Imperial characters realizing her true motivation.➥ What does their writing look like?: Stiff, formal, restrained. Very unlike Veresia herself but necessary to maintain her cover.➥ What disgusts them?: Sith and Imperial cruelties. The Republic and Jedi’s failure to defend her home and family. Jedi refusal to bend their principles to stop evil deeds. Khem Val wearing nothing but a loin cloth.

[lesabear]

24, 27, and 36 for Veresia? :)

24. If they could be part of another group, what would it be? You can choice from Old Republic, Expanded Universe, or Cinematic Universe. 

She’d probably rather just be home/with her family than part of any group. Otherwise….serving with Revan/Malak against the Mandalorians, probably - she’s not fond of people who sit on the side and let bad things happen and is….flexible….about her methods and tactics when in action. A more LS Veresia (or one without her tragic backstory) would probably be okay with the Jedi Order in those random eras where the writers let them be more normal human beings.

27. Do they have any regrets? 

She probably does regret some of the deaths she’s caused, although more in a general sense than any particular one (after all - she only kills people that deserve it!). Apart from that, I think she has some regrets about getting involved with the Jedi Quorian Dorjis - both because it “distracts” her and because she knows he’d never approve of her methods. And deep down she probably regrets devoting herself to destroying the Sith/Empire rather than just going to find her brother - but she can’t really admit that to herself since she prefers deluding herself.

36. Accept Valkorion’s offer to submit or naw?

If submitting was more of a “I’m playing along for now but it’s all a ruse” she might have done that -.she’d definitely think her time evading detection in the Empire would mean she was capable of pretending to be loyal to Valkorion too. But since it isn’t she rejected him from the outset

[lesabear]

46, 48, 54 for Veresia

46. Did they kill or arrest any of the companions? If so why? 

She killed Skadge - she’s not exactly a very forgiving person, least of all for someone like him. Given the limited knowledge she had about him (i.e. she wouldn’t know exactly how awful he is) I could see her arresting him too, but I doubt she’d have cared about bringing him in alive. She also rejected Xalek (I can’t remember if she killed or imprisoned him), as she did not trust him and did not trust he would not continue murdering/doing Sith things if she let him go.

48. SCORPIO’s betrayal? What are their feelings on that? 

Veresia saw it coming from a mile away and regretted her stupidity in not being more careful, though that was in part because she was trying to be a team player when leading the Alliance (especially w/regards to working with her inner circle and not doing things on her own/without a coherent plan like she used to). She softens a bit when she hears SCORPIO explain her motivations, as they touch on much of what drives Veresia too.

54. What did they do with Saresh? 

Killed her, without much of a second thought. As mentioned above, she isn’t a forgiving person. And given the treatment of her (dead, in this universe) brother’s wife and best friend, she’d have extra motivation even beyond what goes on in game.

[lesabear]

Second Chances

A/N: Set in KotFE with Veresia as Outlander, just after the 5.2 Iokath content (no story spoilers, though). Not fic!canon, but an anon asked and I liked the idea so...

My thanks to @brightephemera, @sillymonkey71 and @pedanticsoothsayer for their assistance.

Set behind a read more since it’s about 3000 words. You can also read it at http://archiveofourown.org/works/10331813 if that’s easier

"Thank you, Supreme Commander Malcom, but no. I have never been one for celebratory drinks or occasions.” I smiled slightly as I smoothed my robes. “I was also hoping to speak with Captain Dorne. Alone.”

“Of course. I’ll see you on the battlefield, then.” Malcom struggled for a moment, his eyes shifting between his aide and a spot on the wall slightly to the side of my head. “War makes for strange bedfellows.”

I nodded. “That it does.” Now for the more difficult conversation. To think that once I would have been excited for it.

Captain Dorne watched me with a steely expression that did not betray the sense of unease beneath her calm exterior I sensed through the Force. I did not blame her – close encounters with any Sith were something a rational being would find intimidating at best and fatal at worst, let alone when that Sith was a member of the Dark Council. Former member, soon enough. I doubt the Empire will look kindly upon my decision.  

I attempted to ease the tension by offering a smile, but she only flinched at the sight.

 Another tactic, then.

“Captain Dorne, if you would please join me.” I gestured toward the small conference table in the center of the room. “I was hoping we could get to know one another before we return to the Alliance, since we will be working together.”

The captain nodded hesitantly, and took a seat on the bench directly across from me. I decided it was not worth pressing the issue – not yet, at least. It would take longer, but allowing her to be more at ease would make the entire process that much easier.

 You are the one my brother decided to build a life and future with. You are the one who knew him best, and knew him as I only did as a child. You have no idea what you meant to me before I ever met you. You have no idea how much I want to know you, to understand what you were to him and what he was to you.

But learning more about Captain Elara Dorne would not be sufficient. I wanted – needed - her to teach me about the kind of person that she was, to hear the story from her mouth unfiltered and not influenced by her knowledge of who I was and knowing what I would want to hear. I wanted to fully understand why my brother had come to love her, so I could better understand the man that Ayrs had become. And perhaps then I could know if there was a place for me now…or if I was neither Jedi nor Sith, not Republic nor Sith…but rather lost somewhere in the vast in between.

“I understand you were born in the Empire,” I began shakily. “And that most of your family remains there.”

Something dangerous flashed in her eyes. Fool. She took that for a threat against her family. “That is correct. I left Imperial service several years ago before defecting and have served with the Republic ever since.”

I scrambled to salvage the situation. “I do not blame you for your choice. The Empire is not what it claims to be; perhaps it never was. And no one should be forced to be complicit in its crimes.”

“As you say.” Her eyes remained narrow, her brow furrowed. It was clear I had blundered. “Was there anything else in my service record you wished to know? I have a great deal to do before we leave.”

“Yes, in fact. I am interested in your time with Havoc Squad.” I leaned forward, to emphasize that it was more than a mere request. “Quite interested.”

This time her composure was insufficient to hide a clearly pained expression, and her sorrow radiated through the Force. She forced another smile. “Of course. I served for several years, both as executive officer and later as the unit’s commander. Following the end of hostilities with Zakuul, Chancellor Saresh decided she no longer wished for me to continue in that role. Supreme Commander Malcom had me transferred to his personal staff.” She did not ask if I was interested in further detail this time, though to be fair I was only interested in one matter. Enough time-wasting. It is time to get to the heart of the matter.

“Your former commander in Havoc Squad was one Ayrs Martell, correct?”

Captain Dorne struggled for a moment. “Major Martell, yes. I served with him for over four years. He was the commander of Havoc Squad before I was.”

“Tell me about him.” I sensed her turmoil and recognized I needed to soften the blow, though I also was perilously close to tipping my hand. “Please.”

“May I ask why?” The woman’s lip trembled slightly, almost imperceptibly.

“Of course you may ask.” I spoke carefully, attempting to ensure I did not let my own guard down even as I sought a way past hers. “I would regularly hear about his exploits , as well as those of your squad. I admired him, in my own way.” Not a lie – truly – but also not enough of the truth to betray you. Good. “I am always interested in learning more about those I have studied.”  

“Of course.” She swallowed hard, choosing her words just as I had mine. “He was one of the most capable soldiers I ever had the privilege of serving with, and a fine leader in every respect. The galaxy would do well to have more soldiers like him.”

This is not what I want to know. He was my brother, not some soldier to be remembered like any other. I did not care about his medals or service – I could have gleaned that from the Intelligence reports I had been provided with. I frowned slightly – I would have to push further.

“And what sort of man was he?” I leaned forward, and attempted to soften my voice. To her credit, Dorne did not recoil or react. “The survivors of Ziost declared him a hero, which says much for his character. But does it say everything that should be said?”

“I would assume your intelligence sources could provide a complete psychological profile,” she replied carefully.

“True. But they would not tell me what I wish to know.” I looked her squarely in the eyes, not flinching or reacting when she locked her gaze on me. “I was hoping that his wid - wife could.”

“I – I do not speak about that. Not with those close to me, let alone a member of the Dark Council.” I noticed her voice was uneven and felt a pang of pity stab me in the heart. I did not wish to do this, but I had no other alternative. “Perhaps you can indulge your curiosity with someone else.”

“I am sorry to trouble you in this way. Believe me when I say I do not wish to cause you undue pain…but I would ask you to humor my request.” I could simply reveal the truth behind why I must know, not quite yet. I wanted to hear her speak, first. “We have all lost so many people close to us during this war and the one before it and the one before that. It is important we do not forget them.”

“I have not forgotten him. I will never forget him.” Captain Dorne practically spat the words out at me, stabbing my heart with each angry syllable. “My husband was among the few in the Republic who saw me as a person and not a potential traitor or intelligence resource or an enemy that happened to be wearing the correct uniform. You can rest assured that I remember that every moment I am able.”

 Ayrs always had a good heart. Even if that sometimes hurt him.

“What else do you remember of him?” I prodded, as gently as I could.

“What would you have me say?” Dorne’s green eyes were watering. “That he was the sort of man that would do a thousand annoying things to ensure I would not have to do one? That he was a friendly face and a sympathetic ear when I needed them the most? Or that he would have made a wonderful father had your Emperor’s servants from Zakuul not killed him?” Her accusatory stare unnerved me, even though Vitiate had never been anything but my enemy. “He was a good man with a kind heart, and the kind of person that could make you feel as though nothing in the galaxy mattered to him but you. He did not have to tell me he loved me for me to know. He did not have to say or do anything to make me smile. That is what I remember of him.” She glared at me with anger I had rarely seen before. “Does that satisfy your curiosity?”

“Your son is well?” The Intelligence reports rarely mentioned Artann Martell. No doubt a young boy did not interest the agents as much as a defector from the Emperor. Even Commander Dorne’s supplements had lacked detail about my nephew.

The change in subject caught her off guard. “He is doing as well as one could hope for.” She moved to stand up, clearly tired of my questioning. I would have to end the charade soon.

“And with a mother sworn to a duty that keeps her far from home.”

Something flashed in her eyes, but she suppressed it quickly. “My husband’s family takes care of him when I am away. Unfortunately, the Republic’s demands do not always conform to a parent’s schedule.”

“Too true. Fortunately, Kuat is as good a place as any for a young child to grow up.” Her green eyes flashed again, this time with suspicion. I pre-empted her by leaning forward. “Tell me. What do you know of your husband’s death?”

Dorne’s composure nearly broke. “I realize that you are a valuable ally to the Republic but – “

“Please.” I reached out a hand and gently placed it on one of hers. Curiously, she did not recoil from the gesture. “You will understand.”

She took several deep breaths before continuing. When she did, her voice was rather weak “It was before the war truly broke out, on a world named Ord Cestus that neither side particularly cared about. The coalition forces attempted to hold against the forces we later learned were from Zakuul, but were forced to evacuate. Ayrs - my husband - remained behind to protect the last transports.”

“He died protecting others.” I noted. “He died a hero.”

“I never wanted him to be a hero,” she replied bitterly. “I wanted him to come home.” She removed her hand from mine and wiped away unbidden tears from her eyes. “If you’ll excuse me – “

“I lost someone on Ord Cestus, too.” I felt strangely detached about what I was saying. “My brother was among the coalition forces there. It is strange to think such a small, insignificant, place could be quite the opposite to us both.”

Dorne looked at me warily, no doubt attempting to decipher my intent. “I am sorry for your loss.”

“As I am for yours.” I swallowed hard – I had been unfair to her. Grossly unfair. It was time to put that right. “If you’ll indulge me, I would like to tell you about my brother. It is only fair after what I have put you through.”

She began to protest, but thought better of it.

“My brother and I grew up on a world that I would now be bored with, given all I have seen and done. He was several years older than me, but never let that stop him from playing games with me or ensuring that I could enjoy being a child even as my father drilled me on the responsibilities of being a Force user. He was the kind of brother anyone would be lucky to have.”

“I did not realize Sith childhoods could be so normal,” she said quietly.

“I was not born a Sith. I was forced to become one.” I corrected gently. “My life was destroyed in a single afternoon, when my home was destroyed and I was spirited away to a life of slavery in the Empire…which led to the Sith discovering me. My big brother was not there – he was away at his school. I blamed him sometimes, but I am glad he was not there. He could not have saved me then. He would only have died alongside so many we loved and cared for.”

Her expression suggested a hint of suspicion, but not comprehension. Truth be told, it was both unnerving and exhilarating to lay bare all that had haunted me for these years.

“I did not see my brother for many years. He became a soldier, following in our mother’s footsteps and honoring his faith as well. I watched from afar as best I could, using Imperial Intelligence and other resources to avoid causing him difficulties. I watched his career rise with pride, even as my own path often proved to be something quite different than I would have ever wanted. There were few times I did not wish I could have had him there with me. But I persevered. And so did he.”

Calm. My heart was pounding, its beat as ominous as our final moments together had been. I released her hand from mine as I reached the breaking point.

“We had not seen each other for years when fate – or the Force – brought us together again. And when we saw each other that day, it was as if we had never parted. It was as if we had never left that farm on Ithaca.”

Elara’s mouth opened and closed soundlessly twice upon hearing my homeworld’s name. I felt my nails dig into my palm as I continued the tale.

“He was commanding the rear guard at the coalition headquarters. We fled the main compound together, covering the retreat.” The nails dug deeper. “One of the final two transports left with barely half of its seating filled, and there was not nearly enough room for those of us left behind to fit in the other. I wanted to remain, alongside his soldiers and mine, but he was the same man that he had been before. Always the big brother. Always looking out for his little sister, even when she was too stupid and stubborn to look out for herself.” My vision grew blurry as I remembered those frantic final moments; the blaster bolts flying in every direction and the screams of the dying as the ominous hum of the enemy’s lightsabers grew nearer. “He said ‘Remember me. Remember us.’ As if I could forget my brother or what he had done.”

I dared not look at her. Instead, I focused on my right hand, which were bleeding from how deeply my nails were digging.

“When we returned to the combined fleet, Darth Marr himself took me aside to tell me how my brother had died bravely. That he had died a hero. It took all of my composure not to spit in his face. I did not want Ayrs to die a hero. I wanted my big brother back.” Elara’s hand was on the table. I took it in mine again; she did not seem to mind as she stared at the table and trembled. “But I understood where a man like Marr never could. And I resolved to remember my brother for what he was, and to let go with everything we missed. I wish I could say I succeeded, but Ayrs was never someone I could replace.”

“It’s you. Veresia.” She said softly, her reddened eyes searching my face for something they did not appear to find. “He���he never stopped talking about you; about how you would find a way to survive whatever the galaxy threw your way. I sometimes wondered if it was his way of assuaging his own guilt. But he was always sure he would see you again.” Her voice trailed off as her eyes became slightly unfocused.

“And he did. He always found a way.” I smiled slightly, unsure of whether I should continue. “He told me about you as well, before I left Ord Cestus. He was like a schoolboy gushing about his first crush. I knew then that you were something more than the person I had read about in those reports. You meant everything to him, which in turn meant everything to me.”

She did not say anything.

“He had a message for you. One I should have given a long time ago.” I paused, swallowing hard. “He said to tell you that he was sorry that he left you, and that he loved you even more than you ever realized.” I paused again to allow us both a moment. “And he told me that he would have gladly given up an eternity in the Maker’s grace for another moment with you.”

How I wish that had been possible. But death does not come only for the wicked or the deserving.

Elara did not seem to be in a position to say anything.

I was not well-equipped to deal with such situations – not after spending so many years among the Sith - but I could make an attempt. I would make an attempt.  I rose from my chair and slid onto the bench next to her, awkwardly resting my left arm on back and my hand on her shoulder. I felt her rest her head on my shoulder as she sobbed softly.

“I was not there for Ayrs when he needed me the most. But I am here for you and your son, now and until the last of my days.” It was difficult saying such things. It had been so long since I had meant them. “You are my family.”

[lesabear]

Did no one ask about Ayrs or Veresia for that meme? If not, I have to carry on tradition.

I was as surprised as you. But now you’ve gone and ruined it! I’ll split them up since they deserve it…and putting them in the same post would make it borderline unreadable.

Full Name: Veresia Martell Gender and Sexuality: Female/(Mostly) heterosexual Pronouns: She/her Ethnicity/Species: Human Birthplace and Birthdate: Born on Ithaca (Mid Rim) in roughly 3664 BBY

Guilty Pleasures: Her relationship with Quorian Dorjis, a Jedi she helped free from captivity on Korriban is her biggest one - part of her views it as an unnecessary distraction from her greater goals (and something that can never work out) but he still helps her feel normal. Other guilty pleasures include carrying on a one-woman crusade against the Sith and Empire from within and hanging out with Khem. 

Phobias: Spiders and other creepy crawlers. One of the camps she was held at while in Imperial captivity was infested with them, reinforcing a phobia she had from childhood.

What They Would Be Famous For: In my main universe - Rising from being a slave in the Empire to joining the Dark Council as Darth Oculus. In the “Knights Of” AU, the same followed by commanding allied forces against Zakuul before being forced into hiding.

 What They Would Get Arrested For: If her true motivation (to destroy the Sith and the Empire that destroyed her life) was known, she’d be arrested for treason by the Empire, if not simply summarily executed. She’s killed enough Republic and Republic-aligned people to be wanted for murder and other crimes there as well.

OC You Ship Them With: She doesn’t really fit with any of my OCs, to be honest. I guess maybe Mina would work since they’re both hostile to the Empire, and are willing to get their hands a little dirty to do what the consider the right thing, but Veresia goes several steps beyond Mina when it coms to how far she’ll go to do so. 

OC Most Likely To Murder Them: Malicineve, even if Veresia’s true loyalties/intentions were never revealed, since she simply hates Veresia on a personal/gut level. The loathing is pretty mutual, to be fair. 

Favorite Movie/Book Genre: Revenge-themed westerns most of the time, but probably sappy family movies in private. She doesn’t admit how much the deaths of her family and friends still affects her to anyone, but that wound has never healed.

Least Favorite Movie/Book Cliche: “I can’t kill the villain or I’ll become just like him" heroes. She might have believed that once growing up but she now considers that sort of thinking to be naïve bordering on evil itself, especially given the sorts of things she’s seen the Sith and Empire do firsthand. Moralizing won’t stop the Sith, but she can.

Talents and/or Powers: Veresia is an enormously talented Force User with knowledge of esoteric rituals and powers that rivals those of the other Dark Council members. She has a considerable number of contacts on both sides of the "border”, as there are both sympathetic Imperial-types (Mina, Amurri after a certain point) and SIS agents more than happy to have her ear. 

Why Someone Might Love Them: Somewhat similar to Amurri, she’s a righteous (perhaps self-righteous!) avenger of innocents killed by those in service of the Empire. She’s also still the girl who watched her home burn and her friends and family killed and who wants that sort of normal life again (and especially wants to see her brother again). And yet she can’t really have both her revenge and her return to normalcy, and that conflict is what (I hope) makes her interesting). There’s also the star-crossed lovers aspect to her relationship with Quorian.

Why Someone Might Hate Them: While she may be a sympathetic figure, she (like Amurri) is willing to do and say very unsympathetic things to get what she wants. While she generally tries to avoid unnecessary bloodshed, for example, she’s not particularly inclined to be open minded about other Sith or Imperials. She’s also really mean to Andronikos for awhile and doesn’t feel too bothered by having Khem around. While well-intentioned, she can be a terrible and vindictive person (even if the reasons for that are understandable).

How They Change: She goes through a lot of ups and downs as her story progresses. Growing up she’s the happy daughter of a Jedi Knight who dreams of joining the Order and being a hero. Then she loses everything and becomes a slave before joining the Sith. Even her later seeming single-minded desire to destroy those that did that to her takes on conflicting forms - she encounters Imperials who aren't monsters, she finds somewhat sympathetic Sith, she encounters Republic and Jedi people who judge her for her actions (which she considers necessary to defeat the Sith). There’s other stuff, too, but I haven’t gotten to it in her story….but basically she’s all about the evolution of her desire to destroy the Sith Empire.

Why You Love Them: Veresia’s not always fun to write - I have to spend a lot of time getting her peculiar voice right and constantly rewriting things to make sure that I don’t frame what she does the wrong way (especially as she has a strong tendency to rationalize the nastier stuff she does). That said, I enjoy being challenged (By something other than my poor work ethic too!) and I think her story and character offer a lot more than some of my more one-note characters do. And I’ve developed a real appreciation for Veresia/Khem antics.

[lesabear]

Table for Two

One last gust of wind followed us into the restaurant as the door slid shut behind us, lifting several of the unsecured pamphlets on the front desk into the air and depositing them on the floor in front of us. The woman at the desk ambled toward the papers before nearly running into my companion. In shocked silence, she gawked up at him, unconsciously backing away as she did so.

“Oculus, party of two.” I kept my voice even; the highest rated dining establishment in Nar Shaddaa’s Red Light District was hardly the place to create an incident. I only hoped my companion would also recognize the value in discretion.

“Uh, yes. Of course, yes.” The Mirialan’s eyes flicked across the display in front of her. I saw a list of names flashing across the screen and wondered for a moment if any were ones I would need to take note of. “I see right here.” She waved a waiter over and offered a rather unconvincing smile. “Please, let me live – I mean let Arcann’t take you to your table.”

The waiter paled. I grinned toothily, enjoying the moment even as a voice inside me told me that I should not. A man with as silly a name as Arcann’t deserves to be toyed with.

“Of course. I appreciate all you have done for me.”

“For us,” the deep voice rumbled from behind me.

The waiter – Arcann’t – strode toward an empty table toward the rear of the establishment. His steps were swift and measured, as if he were in control of his emotions, but he could not hide his fear from the Force. It was amusing – or would have been, had it not been for my unfortunate choice in dinner companions.

“This was a mistake, Little Sith. You were a fool for believing a Jedi would love you.” He paused as we arrived at our table. For a moment, I wondered if he would hold the chair out for me, until I remembered that he was a murderous monster and not a proper dinner date. “You are an even greater fool for bringing me to this place.”

“Who is the true fool, Khem?” I arched an eyebrow at him. “The fool or the Dashade that follows her?”

The brute scowled at me and then at his chair; it was far too small to support him. The waiter standing beside him found it within himself to become even more pale. This time, I could not refrain from laughing.

“This is no laughing matter, Little Sith,” he hissed through clenched fangs. “You were embarrassed by your Jedi lover refusing to join you for Darth Valentine’s Day. Now you repay my service by seeking to humiliate me to soothe your hurt feelings.”

I snorted but said nothing as Arcann’t warily returned to the area carrying a comically large chair. Two members of the kitchen staff trailed behind him carrying baskets filled with bread, no doubt hoping he would be too full to consume any of them or their guests by the end of the meal. Khem glanced in their direction and huffed with laughter as he began digging into our – rather, his – bread.

“This has nothing to do with Darth Valentine’s Day, Khem. I merely thought you might enjoy a meal outside the ship that did not consist of a Force-user.” I glanced to my right, at a woman who was paying our conversation entirely too much attention. “Or a nosy eavesdropper.”

She swallowed hard and slid her chair further away.

“I am no fool, Little Sith.” Khem jabbed a claw at me as a tiny chunk of half-eaten bread flew out of his mouth and landed on the floor next to our table. “You wished to spend a romantic evening with your Jedi lover and he rejected you.”

“He is merely an unwitting source of intelligence, not my lover.” I crossed my arms over my chest.

“That is not what it sounded like when you last encountered him,” he replied coldly, though I detected a certain hint of malicious glee in his voice. “You spoke of not knowing the Jedi could use the Force for such things. And then you did more than speak when – “

“Enough!” I pounded my fist on the table, drawing more unwanted attention. “If you do not wish to be sociable, you may return to the ship.”

Before Khem could respond, there was a loud groan from his chair before it collapsed into several wooden splinters. The Dashade hit the ground with a large thud and glared up at me with hateful eyes. The sound of a muffled laugh from across the room distracted, him though.

“Silence, mortals! I am Khem Val, servant of Tulak Hord, devourer of the rebels at Yn and Chabosh, consumer of the Dromund system. And I am hungry."

“Oh Khem.” I sighed softly. “I can’t take you anywhere.”