[Open] Zenith Locked

[holonethero]

[Anakin has taken his time in reaching out to others, partially because he doesn't really like the idea of communion and partially because of his desire to remain detached, but he knows that isn't feasible. He's heard all of the warnings about the war coming to an end soon, and about the need for action...but committing to that is not something he's willing to do just yet. However he still wants to be of some help, and in a sudden, snap decision he just...does it.

His mental voice falters briefly, almost as though he's thinking better of it, but when he does speak up it's in a confident, clear tone. He's used to public speaking, at least, even if this is a little weird.]

Good afternoon. I have been remiss in introducing myself to the rest of you. My name is Anakin Skywalker, Jedi Knight and General of the Grand Army of the Galactic Republic. I've recently arrived and I've been slowly taking things in. I have a few questions, and an offer I'd like to put on the table.

[His thoughts slow, and are accompanied by images of a long stone room with a shallow, sandy floor. A training room.]

The offer first. I have trained many men and women in my unit in self-defense, and I've had an apprentice Jedi up until very recently. I've come to understand that many of you come from civilian backgrounds. If you would like to learn how to fight, or you'd like to brush up on things, particularly when it comes to swordsmanship, please seek me out.

[He pauses to let that sink in before going on.]

Secondly, the questions. I'm curious what made you choose Zenith to give your allegiance? And I would also ask what would make you change your mind? I am not intending to question anyone's loyalties or allegiances except possibly my own, I just would like to understand why you've made the choice you did. It may help me frame my own thoughts better.


Thank you for your time and your thoughts.


[His thoughts quiet then, waiting for responses.]

Comments

[tattooism]

[Well, isn't that nice. His "bow", physical though it may not quite be, receives a "nod".]

I will admit to that, at least. My world was an interesting and vast... but it wasn't quite what I wanted from it. Not yet. I am sure it could have been, with time... and I was willing to wait.

But I was also not opposed to the concept of a new one that could be that from the very beginning. You see my dilemma... ?

[She smiles- and the impression of fangs comes with it. Not in a bad way, now... Just sharp.]

So I decided to go where I was wanted when I introduced myself only as a humble artist uninterested in a fight.

"Loyalty is earned" is often said, is it not?

[holonethero]

[Anakin does note that, wondering what manner of being she is, but doesn't let himself think on it more than a mote of curiosity. He's used to people coming in all shapes and sizes, and the Galactic Republic is quite vast.]

I should've done that, myself.

[He smiles back, amused by the sentiment. Obi-Wan would've probably done that.]

You're right, it is. The shard I was offered was enough for me to be willing to give Zenith the greater consideration, but I confess I do agree that my world could be changed for the better.

[tattooism]

Well, you have made your choice either way, haven’t you? ♡

[There seems to be a bit of a teasing undertone to that comment… without any indication which part she sees worth teasing over.]

Who is it, hmm? The person you’re willing to let the rest of your world be consigned to the ashes for?

[Despite the wording… she doesn’t seem to be saying it like it’s a bad thing. Or a good thing. It’s just what it is.]

[holonethero]

My wife.

[There's no attempt to even hide it. An image of Padme appears front and center in his mind.]

A world without Padme isn't a world I want to be in.

[tattooism]

Hoh...

[There is the impression of leaning forward, examining the image she is being shown from every possible angle, a low, long hum...]

What strong eyes she has, your wife~

[A few more details of her own presence in Communion become clear- including her own eyes, pitch black and almost eerily deep.]

Love is the strongest bond that exists in the heart... Have you thought about how you will explain it to her? Our new world with Zenith?

[holonethero]

[Anakin's sense grows more...prideful. He likes hearing compliments to his wife. She is amazing and awesome.

And he's confident she'll understand.]

She's always agreed that the Galaxy needs a change. We've been at war for so long now, and the corruption in the leadership has grown more and more obvious as it's continued. I don't think she'll need much explanation.

[His heart still aches to lose Obi-Wan and the other Jedi, as well as his soldiers, but given the choice between nothing and Padme his choice is clear.]

[tattooism]

A fellow rebel... ? I was always told that it was best to form a relationship on friendship, but... personally, I have found the binds of what one is fighting for to be all the firmer.

[Love. What a beautiful, aching thing.]

My sympathies, though, that you have to fight this war without her for a time.

Though I believe that the souls we keep are aware of us.

And what we do.

[holonethero]

Thank you.

[He's grateful, the words are kind and he does appreciate it. Even if he's not the most...verbose, or even talkative.]

What's your name, miss?

[tattooism]

Oh, excuse me--

[The impression of her does not become particularly clearer in Communion, but there's the sense of hair brushing back, of leaning in.]

"Kiritsubo the Wandering Tattoo Artist" was my moniker before, but...

Just Kiritsubo will do.

[holonethero]

I'll remember that, Kiritsubo.

[He sends a sense of the approximation of a smile.]

Thank you for responding.

[tattooism]

You are quite welcome, General.

[A pause, as if she considers, before changing to,]

Anakin.

[If there are to be on first-name basis, after all.]

If you have any further questions, you need only ask me anytime. I have such an abundance of time on my hands.