Bathori of Batorine (Family Villa Build)

**BATHORI OF BATORINE**

~ Location: Batorine

~\*~

{IC: knight Bathori}

When she found out that her dream of ever claiming Prakith had been shattered, Grand Master Mab Bathori, Mistress of the Forest had been thinking about moving away from the mountainous Deep Core world that she had made her home. It just didn’t feel right to stay, but also the cold mountains had become unpleasant since Lord Cruor gifted her, her Ultrachrome arm. She always felt cold, and the cold made the pain worse. Therefore the Sorceress had been searching in the archives for an unclaimed world that could be a home for her and her children. For days she spends browsing through thee lists of planets until her eyes felll on the forested world of Batorine.

Located in the Colonies, Batorine is home to the gold skinned Blood Carver race. Insectoids that nearly went extinct due to centuries long conflicts with the Lontars. After the wars most Blood Carvers relocated to secret enclaves on Coruscant, leaving Batorine with a very small population. A perfect world to start over.

~\*~

“We are dropping out of hyperspace Master" K-0R9 said as he looked at the navigational computer. “Excellent, I will inform the new head of security” Ammit replied and got up. As she turned around and left the cockpit she could hear the droid behind her, mockingly say “head of security.” The Iktochi giggles, it amused her that the droid was jealous at the security guy.

Iron apprentice Terrogate had offered to help her with this project, they had planned it for weeks. She wouldn’t just claim and existing building but actually build it. Her mate had arranged for a Master builder and 15 slaves that would do the hard work. K-0R9 would stay at the site as guard but both felt they needed more security to keep the slaves under control therefore Ammit hired Nova Mindosea, a Cyborrean, as Head of Security.

The Nebuchadnezzar dropped out of hyperspace just as Ammit walked up to Nova who sat in one of the passenger seats, “We arrived at the Batorine system.” Nova, looked up with her bright blue eyes “yes boss, I am ready and looking forward to get to work.” A Pleased grin appeared on the Iktochi’s face, she also felt very excited about the project, eager to find the perfect location but first they had to wait for apprentice Terrogate to arrive at Batorine. “I am eager to start myself as well, but we have to wait for my mate first.” She responded to the Cyborrean. “Ofcourse boss, I understand.” Nova replied.

Ammit returned to the cockpit and could see a green planet coming closer. “is that it?” she asked K-0R9. “Yes master, that is Batorine.” He replied as she sat down next to him again. She smiled brightly looking at the globe “Let’s start making planetary scans until Terrogate arrives and look for a good spot to land.” “yes Master”...

~\*~ ~\*~ ~\*~ ~\*~ ~\*~

{ iC: Apprentice Terrogate}

His plan to claim the ancient Sith Temple on Kesh was on hold after he had hit an unforeseen administrative obstacle. The home Iron Apprentice Terrogate hoped for himself was now restricted at least until his knighthood. Of course this also meant his hopes of offering a place to his close friend Knight Ammit Bathori and her family away from the cold mountains of Prakith was also put on hold.

True to form, this did not stop any progression as both Sith were ambitious,

Terrogate was pleased when his mate, Knight Bathori, having heard of this delay suggested an alternative to their original plans, to find a different planet to build a home instead of claiming one. And had also offered in kind that Terrogate could have a place under her roof if he so wished. She had found a planet for them to settle on, in the colonies. The humours part of Knight Bathori residing on the planet named Batorine was not wasted on him, although he felt it perhaps a touch of destiny was in play here.

In the last weeks he had pulled some strings at the Companions Staffing Solutions and hired a well respected Master Builder Yeg Sunar to commission the new home.

Piloting the restored T-Class Cruiser; Roar-1, Terrogate left the Hand of Feros. He wasn’t alone, the cruiser carried both the Master Builder as well as 15 slaves, to do the hard labour, gifted by his Battlelord and Tribune of the Sith, Lady Noxia.

~\*~

Terrogate pulls Roar-1 out of hyperspace as they enter the Batorine system. Steering the cruiser to the rendezvous coordinates in orbit of Batorine, he looks at the planet as they move closer. The surface is almost entirely covered in green forests and is only broken up by various rivers and lakes.

The Bothan Master, sitting behind Terrogate in one of the passenger seats, speaks “this will be a most challenging build. Although I’m glad you’ve bought some labourers for me I do hope you have some security arranged so they stay on task.” “Don't worry” the Catharian replies as he moves the cruise closer, adding “Knight Bathori has arranged the security. It will be adequate.” “Knight Bathori?... of planet Batorine?” chuckled the Bothan Master builder. “Yes..., you have a problem with that??” Said Terrogate with a steely voice.

“no sir… no problem” the Bothan replies sounding very nervous. Facing the front window and out of view from his passenger, Terrogate grins and lets out a low chuckle.

He hits the comlink to the Lambda class T4a shuttle, the Nebuchadnezzar “Knight Bathori, we have arrived and are about to enter the planetary atmosphere. Can you send the optimal landing coordinates yet?”

~\*~ ~\*~ ~\*~ ~\*~ ~\*~

{IC: Knight Bathori}

After an hour or so, K-0R9 picks up the signal of Roar-1, “A ship has just dropped out of hyperspace Master” the droid says. Ammit looks at the computer and recognizes the signal “that is Roar-1” she says with a smile and within minutes the comm flashes. “incoming transmission” the droid says and presses the button to accept. A distorted holo image of the Catharian appears in front of them; “Knight Bathori, we have arrived and are about to enter the planetary atmosphere. Can you send the optimal landing coordinates yet?”

She smiles brightly at her mate and replies “Greetings Apprentice Terrogate. We have done several planetary scans.” As she speaks she taps into her control panel and sends their findings to Roar-1 “I’m sending you the most suitable option.” She pauses for a moment to allow him to read their findings. “the forests make it difficult to find an optimal landing location for both our ships. But to the south of the mountains there are a few clearings where we could land.” She explains as she watches the Catharian read. He nods “yes, purrfect” he says with a grin “I will see you there" he adds. “I can’t wait" the Iktochi winks and ends the transmission.

“ok Korg, I will take us down" she says, looking at the droid in the pilot’s seat. “I’m more than capable of landing the ship Master.” “I know you are, but I like to do it myself” Ammit gets up from her seat and waits for the droid to make space.

~\*~

The Iktochi sorceress takes the black Lambda class t4a shuttle down to the planet’s surface. When the Nebuchadnezzar breaks through the thick clouds the forests become more visible, like a thick green blanket covering the entire world. “Roar-1 is landing" K-0R9 says, Ammit sees the old cruiser lowering down between the trees, “there is a clearing one click to the east master" the droid continues. “thank you Korg, I see it.” She says as they pass over Terrogate’s ship, going east. “there it is" she mumbles to her self and starts the landing procedure.

The black wings fold up as Ammit slowly lowers the Nebuchadnezzar between the trees. It is a small clearing, just big enough for the shuttle to land.

~\*~

A few minutes later, Ammit walks down the ramp onto the soft mossy ground of the forest. It is early, a cool breeze rustles the leaves of the tall trees, blowing the morning mist away. Nova steps down on to the soft ground, even with all the cybernetics there is visible confusion. Ammit looks at her “is something wrong?” “the ground feels like a sponge” she replies as she moves her boots in the green moss. The Iktochi laughs, but before she can reply K-0R9 steps between them and looks down at the Cyborrean “have you never seen moss before" he says with a demeaning attitude. Nova looks up at him with a blank expression “no. I haven’t.” The Iktochi can feel the tension between them rise, and decides to act quickly. “let’s go find the others.”

{To be continued}

##### Part 2: choosing land

{IC: Apprentice Terrogate }

The Iron Apprentice, now having received Knight Bathori’s landing instructions to land south of the mountains, approaches the land zone and pressing several controls on the dash he activates his ships landing gears and reduces his speed to a mere hover. Carefully he turns and positions Roar-1 into the clearing allowing enough space for a safe landing and he sets the ship down as best he is able. A slight jolt on the landing reminds him there was still much work to be done on his piloting skills.

Terroagte shuts off the engines and in the front window sees the Nebuchadnezzar fly overhead and Eastwards, also slowing down and beginning its descent downwards to the forest planet. The Catharian smiles, unbuckles himself and turns to see Master Yeg Sunar who was also unbuckling himself. ”Come Master builder, we are to meet up with the Knight and her companions, they have landed to the east of here and time is of the essence. I know she is excited to choose a plot of land that will be adequate and also discuss the building plans with you so please keep your eyes open as we travel to meet them for any potential build sites.”

”Very good Apprentice Terrogate, I am always looking for build sites, if I see the right one will be sure to say so” replies the Bothan in agreement. ”how about the slaves? They can't come with us”. ”No they are safe here in the holding cells, I'll come back to get them once we are ready to progress.” replied Terrogate.

He stands to his full near 7-foot height and ushers the Master Builder to the lift, they descend to the ready room and then from there they head out the aft airlock and onto the planet's forest floor. Remembering the path the Lambda class T4a shuttle went several moments ago the pair head East on their way to find the Iktotchi Knight and her crew.

~\*~~\*~~\*~~\*~~\*~

{IC: Knight Bathori }

With K-0R9 in lead, the group of three walks at a steady pace through the forest. Golden beams of light came through the thick canopy, the morning sun felt warm when it touched her skin. The Iktochi Knight couldn’t feel happier, she imagined how her life would be living on this lush green world. She could see Khara flourishing here, flying in the blue skies above the trees. Se imagined Kas’sparr continuing his training here, with Jovian and with her mate Terrogate.

“Are you sure this is the right place boss" Nova asked, interrupting Ammit’s thoughts. “the right place? Why do you think it is the wrong place?” she smiled surprised. “there is nothing here, no one..” the Cyborrean looked at all the trees. Ammit smiled “that’s the point, it is like a blank canvas, a new start. It’s perfect.” She continued to follow K-0R9 who silently walked ahead between the tall trees. His heavy feet made indentations in the soft damp mossy ground. The morning mists were slowly evaporating, the drops of water on the leaves shimmered in the golden morning sun, like thousands if little diamonds.

“I’m picking up movement” K-0R9 suddenly said and all three froze in their tracks. They could hear the rustling of leaves, twigs snapping. “that’s not Terrogate” Ammit whispered, using her telepathic senses....

Location: Batorine

{IC: Apprentice Terrogate}

Terrogate and Yeg Sunar make their way eastwards on the soft moss covered stone underfoot, the trees thick canopy quickly blocking out all but the occasional ray of sun making its way desperately through the leaves high above them. The beams of light streaming down to the forest floor illuminating the fine mist that still clung to the air in a brilliance that reminded Terrogate of his ancestral home. Together they leave the soft mossy covered dark stone ground they had started on and entered an earthy section of land, more braken and low knee height ferns, the trees here were also more sparsely spread out than what they had encountered so far.

A stream was close by, the Catharian could not yet see it yet but he could hear the bubbling of running water moving through and over rocks, his nose with a more accurate sense of smell was picking up the sweet aroma of the fresh mountain waters and wet ground. ”Hmmm this could be a decent spot” Terrogate whispers as they push eastward towards Knight Bathoris location.

\*crack, snap, crunch\* Terrogate turns suddenly to the Bothan with a low snarl looking him directly in the eyes.. ”I hired you to build a house, not to get us killed.” he said in a low voice coupled with a look that could penetrate rock. ”This is Batorine. These Forests are home to Feragriffs, wild predators that will rip you apart and feast on your innards given the chance. So you may want to watch your step master builder, so as not to alert them to our presence quite so soon.” Terrogate turns and continues to walk through the forest silently, Yeg Sunar now scurrying along behind him to catch up, looking around suspiciously.

~\*~

After around 10 or so standard mins Terrogate, with Yeg Sunar now shadowing his every move, have come to a thick bushy part of the forest. Visibility is low due to the large native plant leaves surrounding them reaching up and past even Terrogates full near 7foot height. At once he comes to an abrupt halt as he hears some rustling ahead. Yeg nervously grabs Terrogates arm and says in a low whisper ”Feragriffs'?

”No, and although I sense Knight Bathori is close by… But this is not her, this issomething else. Terrogate moves slowly closer and pushes the large leaf obstructing his view aside, revealing a dead Feragriff, freshly killed. “well that was a Feragriff” the Catharian whispered but he could sense the killer was still nearby.

~\*~ ~\*~ ~\*~ ~\*~ ~\*~

{IC: Knight Bathori}

Nova takes out her Blaster Rifle, and scans their surroundings. The Cyborrean’s optical sensors quickly picks up something lurking in the bushes “there” and she aims her rifle. Ammit shakes her head and pushes the rifle down, she has been using her telepathic senses and didn’t pick up a threat. “It could be a predator Boss” Ammit shakes her head “no, this is a sentient being a native I presume.” “what will we do?” Nova looks confused, she as ready to blast the lurker out of their way. “we will continue our way, and find the other” the Iktochi says and starts walking. Even K-0R9 is surprised, if he had eyebrows he’d probably frown at her “but it might bring others Master.” “I know, but I am not going to start a war, I want to live here. For now we leave our lurker alone and see what happens” she smiles.

~\*~

{IC: Apprentice Terrogate}

Continuing their way westward to find Terrogate and the Master Builder, Ammit kept using her senses to keep track on the lurker. Her telepathic senses allowed her to pick up emotions, and all she sensed from their spy was curiosity and little fright. It didn’t take long for them to find the others. The morning sun reflected on her golden arm as she waved at the Catharian in the distance. “Greetings Apprentice Terrogate, it seems we have already caught the attention of the locals" she smiled, he looked like he belonged in these forests, she knew this would be a good home for him as well and part of her hoped he would accept her offer to stay..

~\*~~\*~~\*~~\*~~\*

“Greetings Knight Bathori, and to you too Nova and of course you as well Korg”. Said the Catharian smiling as he and the Bothan builder approached the Iktotchi Knight and her companions. His muscular arms embracing her in a moment of greeting for his closest of friends. “This is Master Yeg Sunar, our builder, and yes.. Indeed it does seem that way and if I didn’t know any better I’d say we are currently being watched.” Said the Catharian looking out to the surrounding thick forest. “Well it’s nothing to be worried about just yet, if they wanted a fight trust me, we’d know.” Turning back to the way that he and the Master builder came from Terrogate begins to walk “Come on, we found a great spot not far from here.”

~\*~

Terrogate lead them back to the earthy clearing he and Yag Sunar had noted earlier. Ammit stood at the centre, looking around. A pleased smiled appeared on her face and she nodded “perfect” was the only word she said. Terrogate felt happy, “I’ll leave you with Yeg to discuss you’re building plans.” The Master builder walked up to Ammit and took his data pad from his bag, “now, let’s discuss your wishes” the Bothan said.

Terrogate turned to Nova “Nova, come with me please. We will bring our labour force and the supplies.” Nova nodded and followed him, leaving Ammit, Yeg and K-0R9 behind....

##### Part 3: Foundations

Location: Batorine

{IC: Knight Bathori}

~\*~

The black Lambda-Class T-4a shuttle glided through the clouds as it made way to the landing coordinates. A week had passed since her last visit, after having chosen the land, the slaves apprentice Terrogate had brought started their work. Clearing the plot, while Yeg Sunar, the Master Builder discussed the wishes of the Iktochi Knight. A modern home that would feel like it belonged in the Batorine forests, one with its surroundings. Build with materials from this forested world itself.

When the Nebuchadnezzar broke through the thick clouds, the horned Chiss boy's eyes grew bigger at the sight of the lush green forests that covered the planet’s surface. Apprentice Terrogate had to continue his training with Knight Deleritas and K-0R9 had stayed behind on Batorine. Ammit hated to travel alone and therefore had decided to take her son with her as she would check the building progress and bring new supplies. Of course the boy was thrilled to come along, he hated Prakith and always asked to come on along missions.

Approaching the coordinates Ammit slowed the shuttle down. The labourers had cleared the plot and cut down several trees to make more space, it was now far more easy to land. She turned the shuttle and carefully lowered it between the trees. “are you ready Kas’sparr?” Ammit asked as she switched off the engines. The boy looked at her, it was the first time she actually saw him with a genuine smile. “yes! I can’t wait to see the house" he said as he jumped off his seat. With a chuckle she replied “well, I doubt there is much of a house yet, probably just the foundations.” After Getting up she made way into the back, the shuttle was filled with supplies. As she grabbed her gear she pressed the button to lower the ramp. With a loud hiss it lowered down onto the soft mossy ground. “Let’s get going” she said but before she could walk down Kas’sparr had already darted out in front of her.

~\*~

“Greetings Knight Bathori” Yeg Sunar said as he approached the shuttle with two slaves. The Iktochi sorceress gave a friendly nod “greetings Master builder, I have brought you the supplies you requested” she said as she looked at her son in the corner of her eyes. The boy looked intrigued at the Botan male. “Excellent” he said and turned to the two slaves “you two can start unloading.” The slaves silently nodded and walked up the ramp. The Botan then moved his gaze at the blue skinned boy standing next to Ammit, “this is Kas’sparr, my son" she said. The master builder held out his hand “Greetings. I am Yeg Sunar.” The boy looked up at him and took his hand “Greetings mister Sunar. A pleasure to make your acquaintance” he said with a smug smile. The Botan smiled “the pleasure it all mine young man.. I’m sure you are looking forward to see your new home” at once Kas’sparr nodded. Ammit smiled “yes he is, better have a look at the progress.”

Walking next to the Master builder “Now fill me in, how has it been going?” the sorceress asks as she keeps an eye on her son . “it has been going well, the workers have done an excellent job levelling the ground and digging out the basement..” Yeg replied as they walked down the path. The sound of sawing and hacking could be heard as they approached the building site. Kas’sparr went ahead, disappearing between the thick green undergrowth. “What about locals?” she asks the Master builder as he pushed the branches aside for her to pass. “well. We have had some sightings of them watching us, but only at a distance.” Ammit stepped between the branches onto the building site, she could see her son standing at the edge, watching the workers. “I think we should pay them a visit, just to show them we are no threat” she suggests. The Botan nods, “yes that would be a good idea” he turned to the building site and continued “Let me give you a tour.”

“As you can see, the foundation is done” Yeg climbs onto of the flat levelled plot. “we started quarrying the black stone as we flattened the land. Its been hard work but with the tools provided the workers have been quite fast" Ammit listens quietly as she follows the Botan builder over the site. “as you requested we have dug out a basement ehm.. to eh.. to fit your needs.” Ammit could sense the awkwardness as he mentioned the basement and chuckled. She had requested for a basement that would function as an alchemy lab as well as a dungeon. “Yes, this will be perfect” she said as she looked into the large hole in the ground. “give me a moment” the Master Builder said and walks away.

The horned Chiss boy stood at the edge of the building site, watching the labourers carrying the heavy black stones they had chiselled out of the bedrock, to the new wall. Ammit sensed his disappointment and approached him. Standing next to him she asked “well, what do you think?” She already knew but didn’t want to make him feel like she was prying. He turned towards her looking up with his red eyes “there is nothing to see" she said with disappointment in his eyes. “well, I told you it would it would just be the foundations. It’s only been a week" she explains as she places her hand on his shoulder. “I know, but I had hoped there was something to see" the boy says with a sigh. “I can help with that" Yeg had returned with a holopad, he switched it on and a holo map of the house appeared. At once the red eyes of Kas’sparr widened “wow.” Yeg smiled “we are now standing here, this would be the living area...and over there would be the stairs..” the Botan turned around and pointed up the hill “Up there, will be the landing platform, with a path that leads down to here.” Ammit quietly followed the pair as Yeg continued to give the boy a tour. She had a pleased grin on her face, her sons enthusiasm about the house made her feel that this was definitely the best choice she had made for her children.

“What’s are those?” Kas’sparr suddenly asked. Ammit looked at him, he was pointing uphill. Both the Iktotchi and the Botan looked up and saw two golden figures watching them. “Those are the natives" she explained as she started waving at them with both arms. The sleeve of her tunic slid down, revealing her ultrachrome arm. A beam of sunlight fell on the highly reflective golden arm. The two Blood Carvers seemed to talk to one and other, pointing at them and then ran off. “Are we going after them?” Kas’sparr asked, The Iktotchi shook her head as she lowered her arms. “No, they are no threat, but I am planning to pay them a visit soon..” She looked at Yeg who nodded, “to introduce ourselves." “Yes I think that would be a wise move" the Botan said.

~\*~

Carefully Ammit lowered Kas’sparr on one of the seats in the back of her shuttle. It was late, the boy had fallen asleep while she and Yeg Sunar were discussing the house. It was time to leave, Ammit had to return to Korriban to train her Apprentice Sedenna Salabrox. She walked to the cockpit and sat, she looked through the front window, the moon casted silver beams of light through the canopy. She started the engine and slowly moved the Nebuchadnezzar up between the trees. She wouldn’t return the next week, that would be Terrogate to bring more supplies and check the building progress.

##### Part 4: a request

Location: Batorine

{IC: Apprentice Terrogate}

~\*~

The hiss of the thrusters reversing filled the cockpit as Terrogate lowered the Roar-1 down to land. Carefully touching it down in one of the seldom clearings amidst the thick tree canopies of the Batorine forests.

Knight Bathori’s security droid, K-0R9, approached the cruiser as Terrogate descended the aft hatch. “Greetings Korg” he said with a smile as he stepped onto the soft forest floor.

This time the landing site was much closer to the house, only a hundred metres away. The sound of the workers could be heard nearby while the droid stopped in front of the Catharian “Greetings apprentice Terrogate, did you bring the supplies” K-0R9 asked coldly. Terrogate grinned, he had noticed the droid didn’t like anyone who was involved with his master “it is good to see you” the Catharian said with chuckle. “I brought the supplies”

He paused for a moment looking sternly at the jelouse droid “I trust the work is coming along as scheduled? I know its only been a few weeks but I am keen to see the progress.. There was also one more thing I wanted to discuss with the Master Sunar” The Catharian said as he turned. “Yes, the workers have made a lot of progress” the droid replied without moving. Terrogate began to remove the supply crates he brought with him from the ship and placed them on the clearing floor outside.

“Common Korg give us a hand with these will you, so we can get to the build site” Terrogate said as he placed another crate on the floor in front of the droid. “I’m a security droid, this isn’t part of my job description” the droid said to his surprise refusing to help, at once Terrogate looked up at K-0R9 with fire in his eyes. The jealousy was amusing, but disobedience was something he wouldn’t accept, especially not from a droid. “excuse me?! I wasn’t asking, it was an order.” The Catharian growled as he rose to his full size, staring fiercely at the droid. For a moment nothing happend, it was clear the droid was processing what was happening. Then suddenly without another word the security droid stepped forward and lifted one of the crates. With a pleased grin Terrogate watched as Korg walked away.

~\*~

The Botan building master met the Iron Apprentice at the building site “welcome master Terrogate”, he said with friendly smile and ordered two more slaves to accompany K-0R9 in offloading the supplies as he showed Terrogate the progress they had made.

Yeg showcased the work that had been done since Ammit’s last visit, it actually started to look like a house. The foundations and the large basement were complete, they had started erecting internal framing and wall supports as well as standalone utility power and water generators, plumbing and cables work. The Catharian was impressed with the work that had been done so far, the design and layout was impeccable. Functional and modern, with lots of room for guests and family.

After a couple of hours, inspecting the site, Terrogate said goodbye to Nova and Korg as his job was done. “master Sunar, would you please walk with me" the asked as she decided it as time for him to go. “Ofcourse” the Master builder walked next to him, Back towards Roar-1. “So, any action so far from the locals?” asked Terrogate as they walked away from the site. “No, none so far luckily, we’ve seen them on occasion in the distance when the mist clears, standing in groups watching us through the trees but never anything more than that, although they did seem quite interested in Knight Bathori once they noticed her golden arm.” Yeg said thoughtfully.

“But I thank the ancients for Nova and Korg being here to assist me.... The workers have been as well behaved as one can expect from slaves and surprisingly they are keeping to schedule under their watchful eyes.” As they walked up the cruiser Terrogate turned to the Botan Builder once more “before I go, I was wondering if I could make another request Master Sunar?” Yeg looked at the large Catharian looking a bit nervous having seen the “extra request” Knight Bathori had made in regards to extra equipment and supports for the basement. “umm sure, what is it? The build has begun please be aware, at this stage of the works there is only minor changes that may be accommodated without major setbacks” Terrogate shook his head “Nothing major.. and I’m happy to pay extra.” Yeg pulled out his datapad and showed the layouts. Terrogate pointed to a spot on the plan where a separate room may still be built off to the side of the lower level. “Here!” he exclaimed with as he glanced at the builder “Here, I want you to build a martial training facility here. space for a weapons rack, free weights and a punching bag, book shelf for manuals, I want an octagonal mat in the centre.” Yeg nodded and started taking notes as the Catharian continued discribing his request. “a water fountain in the corner and a working shower and towel rack too please.” “Quite a list, but doable.” Said Yeg as be rapidly took down all the notes.

“Anything else?” “Yes” said Terrogate and pointed towards the stream “I’d like a circle cut in about 20 meters across right next to the stream, close to the house. I wish it paved with black stone and then covered filled sand and I want stone pyres surrounding it to light it up at night should we need to use it then.”

“Stone Pyres” the builder repeated as he marks it down. “Done. Fear not master Terrogate, all is in good hands. You and Knight Bathori will be quite pleased with the result I’m sure of it”.

And with that Terrogate said his goodbyes to Yeg and departed the forested world, excited to see the finished product.

##### Part 5: The Move

Location: Batorine

IC: Knight Bathori

~\*~

Excited Knight Bathori had shared the news with Jovian and the kids, the time had finally come, the time to move to Batorine. She had just received a transmission that the new house on the forested world had been completed and was ready for them to move in to. They didn’t need much time to get ready for departure as they had been packing and prepping themselves for this move for several weeks, all of them where ready.

~\*~

“Make sure the boxes are secure, we don’t want anything sliding when we drop out of hyperspace” Ammit said as she followed Jovian up the ramp of the Nebuchadnezzar. “Of course Mistress” he replied carrying a large box into the back. “How much is left?” “this Is the last one" the Echani responded as he placed the box down on top of another box already there. The Iktotchi smiled, this was is “then I guess we better start moving, get the kids and secure the tower.. I’ll warmup the engine.” The housecarl nodded at her and quickly left the shuttle again as she turned to the cockpit.

Sitting down in the pilot seat she gazed out of the window at the Tower. She could see Jovian entering to get the children. Although she was excited to move to Batorine she would leave Prakith with a heavy heart. She would miss the tower that she had made her home, she would miss the mountainous Deep Core word that had been her hide out.

Jovian stepped outside again, Kas’sparr walked straight to the ship while Khara waited for the Echani. Ammit smiled and started the engine of the black lambda-class t4a shuttle. Floki the little Kiros bird sat on the housecarl’s shoulder as he secured the door to the tower.

As the engines warm up Knight Bathori opens a subspace channel to Apprentice Terrogate, to send him a holotransmission. Her heart was racing with excitement as she recorded the short holomessage. “Greetings Terrogate, we are about to departure from Prakith, I am looking forward to see you on Batorine.”

Moments later, with everyone on board the Nebuchadnezzar lifted off. One last time they looked at the old watch tower before Ammit slowly turned the shuttle away and up to the stars...

Terrogate sits cross legged in the center of his room, sitting in the small meditation circle in the round leaky tower he had made his home since his departure from the general Acolyte barracks aboard the Hand of Feros. To a degree it reminded him of his childhood home, high atop the forest floor in his tree home in Cathar. The cold wind that whistled through the gaps in the stone walls and the creaking of the shingled roof was comforting, and it helped him focus on his past, and his future as infinite as the possibilities seemed he still felt that he was being guided somehow. That no matter what path he took, that it was somehow all still eventually leading to the same road, the same inevitable end, but what that was exactly still remains entirely hidden to him.

His meditations were soon cut short as a faint, repeating sound of soft vibration was heard. At first it seemed like a thousand miles away, existing only on the very edge of his consciousness, but in each repetition it gets closer to him until as though it was right next to his ear. He opens his eyes and on his desk, next to where his pet Gizka Jimmy was laying was his holopad. Getting up and turning on the device he realises it is his closest friend Knight Bathori. A smile grew across his face instantly as he pressed the acceptance button to see her face now appear, two golden eyes above her signature facial tattoos looking back at him and her lips curled upwards showing her golden fangs as she smiled delivering her recorded message.

“Greetings Terrogate, we are about to depart from Prakith, I am looking forward to seeing you on Batorine.” And with that the holo message ends. The Catharians excitement rises inside him, It would seem that the moment he had been looking forward to these last months had finally arrived. She had gotten the message from the Master Builder Yeg Sunar that her home in the forest world of Batorine was now completed and ready to be occupied, and Terrogate could hardly wait to see the newly built home, and then the look of happiness on her face when she saw it.

Only half an hour later he had a bag packed with some clothes, food and blankets for himself and his pet and had ordered the re-fueling and fit out of his personal cruiser in preparation for space travel. “Common Jimmy'' he said as he gently picked up his small animal companion, “how about joining me on the trip this time?” He takes an excitedly croaking Jimmy in one hand and his bag in the other as he makes his way to the hanger bay.

~\*~

Roar-1 enters the atmosphere of Batorine and descends down into the familiar clearing between the forest canopy, a brand new building now stands erected amongst the trees from the sky you could have easily missed seeing it except for the pool and the cleared out 20meter circle next to the nearby stream. He sees several people already had arrived as well as 2 smaller figures moving around and standing next to Knight Bathori’s transport ship the Nebuchadnezzar. A wide smile crosses his face as he realises she had brought her whole family with her today, perhaps she was already planning to move in? If so then he would stay and help if she so wanted his company.

Jimmy jumps around croaking excitedly as the apprentice pulls the ship to the ground next to Nebuchadnezzar. As he hits the Afts opening hatch the turns to his pet as he takes him under his arm. “Well Jimmy, time to go check out mistress Bathori’s new house and meet her family. I think they will be very happy here.” He stands and heads outside.

They stood on the brand new landing platform on the moss covered roof of the new house. She could feel her heart racing inside her chest when the hatch of the Roar-1 opened. Suddenly she felt nervous, it was an important day for her and she wanted the Catharian there with her, as she would ask him an important question. Her cheeks glowed when he walked down the ramp to greet her and the kids. “Greeting Artifax of Tollere” she said with a bright smile. “welcome back, I hope you had a pleasant journey” she adds and notices the small Gizka in Terrogate's arms. The small reptilian pet seemed to recognise her as well, as it squawked happily at her “and greetings to you Jimmy” Ammit said as she moved closer to scratch him on his head.

She glanced up at the Catharian with an amorous smile “I hope you feel just as excited as me to see the house.” Before he could reply they were interrupted “what's that?” Kas'Spar asked as he looked at Jimmy. “this is Jimmy the Explorer... exploder I mean. Apprentice Terrogate's pet Gizka.. You remember Terrogate right?” Ammit looks at her son, feeling a little awkward as the last time they met was over breakfast when the Catharian stayed the night on Prakith. A smug smile appeared on the horned Chiss' face “of course I remember, how could I forget.” For a moment the Iktochi wasn’t sure how to respond except for smiling nervously. “you remember Khara and Jovian” she quickly said and stepped away from Terrogate. Jovian stood a further away with Khara who was playing with Floki. “greetings master Terrogate” the housecarl nodded to him.

Lucky for them the building Master walked up to them “welcome all of you, my apologies for letting you wait. As requested the workers brought all of your belongings to the designated as rooms..” he turned to Terrogate “how about you, did you have anything that you want to be brought to your room before we begin the tour?” Ammit now started to blush more, and hadn’t asked him yet if he would stay. She nervously waited for his response.

Terrogate made his way down the access ramp, a bounce in his step, Jimmy under his arm and a large grin on his face. He was very excited to see the new house and just as excited to see his closest of friends and her family. He had missed her greatly these past months, his training and trials had been difficult lately, yet she always managed to heighten his spirits and improve his mood when they were together.

“Greetings Artifax of Tollere'' she said smiling back at him. “Welcome back, I hope you had a pleasant journey, and greetings to you Jimmy” Ammit said as she moved closer to scratch him on his head. “Greetings mistress'' the Catharian says as he embraces her with his free arm. “The trip was good, I’m getting better at the take off and landings too, so I’m thankful for the extra practice I’ve been getting on these trips to Batorine”. On his way to responding to her with “I could hardly wait to arrive as I’m very excited to see the results.” He is cut off as her son Kas’Spar takes interest in his pet. The Gizka croaks with excitement as the boy steps closer. Terrogate chuckles “I think you may have gained a new friend” Terrogate reaches out with Jimmy looking to give him to the boy to hold and in his typical style the young Chiss makes an attempt to embarrass his mother. “Here, why don’t you watch him for me while we have a look around” says the Catharian to Kas’Spar trying to take the awkwardness away from the moment.

“And of course I remember your daughter Khara” Terrogate smiles at the young winged girl and gives her a wink, she smiles back and goes back to playing with Floki. “And Jovian, greetings once again. I trust you're enjoying your new role as Housecarl?” Terrogate inclines his head to the Echani.

“Welcome all of you!” Says the familiar voice of the Master builder Yeg Sunar, “my apologies for letting you wait. As requested the workers brought all of your belongings to the designated rooms” He turns to Terrogate “how about you, did you have anything that you want to be brought to your room before we begin the tour?”

Terrogate looks over to the Iktotchi Knight. “Well, that entirely depends on Knight Bathori, I am ready to stay and help her unpack her belongings and settle in if she so wishes. Jimmy and I travel light so we wouldn’t be a bother, and I packed a stay bag just in case.” He looks at the Seer who is now blushing “But of course, only if we are welcome Ammit. I wouldn’t dare to intrude”

The Iktochi seer could feel her face glowing, she’s embarrassed because this wasn’t the way she wanted to ask Terrogate to stay. She nervously smiled “well.. Ehm..... I.. Eh... Eh. I was going to.. to ask you whilst showing your room. But eh.. yes I would very much like you to stay..” Before the Catharian could answer she continued “you don’t have to answer now” and she turned to the Botan master builder “lets have the tour first.” She said as she played with the ring around her finger. From the corner of her eye she could see Kas'Sparr with a smirk on his face, amused by the awkward behavior of his mother.

“Of course Knight Bathori. It would be my pleasure to show you your new home” the Botan said with a proud smile. “the workers have done an excellent job” he continued as he turned away and walked to the black stone steps that lead all the way down to the terrace. At once Ammit noticed the pool, something that wasn’t in the original building plans. Before she could ask Yeg explained “a villa like this just screamed ‘pool’, so I had one installed” be chuckeled and walked to the edge “but it’s not just a pool, it has a glass bottom which provides natural light for the room below” he looked at the children with a nervous grin. “what's below” Kas'Spar at once asked “its just a basement with lots of storage and my lab” Ammit replied quickly, thinking that the kids didn’t need to know about the dungeon, not yet anyway. She looked into the pool and saw the lights of the room beneath the pool.

“lets go inside” Sunar said as he walked to the main entrance. Kas'Spar at once followed, he was eager to see his room. Jovian took Khara inside leaving Ammit outside with Terrogate. She smiled at him, her cheeks were still blushing. Their eyes locked as her approached her, Ammit bit her lip..

“Master! This way.” A robotic voice said, interrupting the moment the couple had. Startled she turned around and saw K-0R9 standing at the entrance. “Yes. We better get inside” she responded as she glanced at Terrogate.

They quickly entered the home and met the building master in the living area, a big open space with a glass roof. Black stone walls and dark wooden floors. After that he lead them to the open kitchen area where they would find a round glass hatch on the floor. “Let’s safe that for last” Ammit said, “better show the kids their rooms first” and added with a wink knowing the rooms would distract them.

Terroage stands in the large open living room, simply in awe by the beauty of the vila the Botan builder had managed to create. It's dark wooden floors and black slate rock walls , elegant fireplace were a marvellous astectc, a large viewing screen on the East wall was mounted in front of the large luxurious couch. The earthy tones and the rough natural edges in the stone used made the house feel as though it was not built in this forest, but rather, it was a part of it. He hadn’t given an answer to Ammit yet, but he already knew what he would say.

Jovian was dismissed and went to collect Nova so she could also see where she was to be staying. Therrogate, Ammit, Master Sunar and the kids ascended the stairs and made their way to the kids' bedrooms, Kas’Spar and Khara had one each, and each was made with cleverly designed space for bed, storage and play spaces. Wardrobes and a study desk for the boy as well, and in the other a teal coloured bed with a set of drawers and a beautifully crafted chest for Khara to put her toys. “A gift from me. for the little one.” The Botan builder said with a grin on his face as the young Sky’tri girl went in and instantly lay on her new bed. “Common, still more to see.. said the builder” “Kas’Spar, stay and watch you sister will you? We’ll be back in a moment.

Further along was the Master bedroom, a large bed was central to the main room with an attached en-suite. Beautiful in its design it was elegant and sleek and suited the house perfectly, a separate fireplace and the dark wooden floors joined its looks to the rest of the houses flow. Terrogate shoots Knight Bathori a sideways glance and winks at her. “Truly beautiful work, Master Sunar you’ve more than exceeded my expectations sir. The three of them turn and descend the stairs once more they are led to servant and guest rooms. Nova and Jovian were already in their separate rooms unpacking their belongings. Finally they get to the guest room. Master Sunar now waits patiently in the Living room.

As Ammit opens the door Terrogate looks in to see a beautifully stunning bedroom, slightly smaller than the children’s room but it mattered not. It was beautiful, in the room he noticed that someone had already moved his belongings into the room, the stay bag sat neatly on the end of the bed. He turns to face Ammit, he reaches down and holds her hand. With a smile on his face he speaks. “I accept, I would love to stay here with you and your family. For as long as you’ll have me. I couldn’t think of anywhere else in the whole entire Galaxy I’d rather be”. And with that he leans in and kisses her.

The children were indeed distracted by their new rooms, Khara and Floki were investigating the chest with toys while in the other room Kas'Spar was unpacking his belonging while Jimmy found a spot on the bed to curl up and sleep.

The building master took Ammit and Terrogate down stairs again, to the guestroom. Terrogate's bag was already there waiting for him. He took her hand and told her he would stay. A bright smile appeared on her face, happy that he accepted her invitation. He pulled her leaned in and planted his lips on hers, she replied by wrapping her arms around him as they kissed. This was the happiest Ammit ever felt, she finally had a real home and a family, nothing else mattered.

Suddenly there was a knock on the open door. Master Sunar cleared his throat to get their attention, which he immediately had. Ammit quickly let go and stepped away from the Catharian “We still have the basement to see” Yeg said as he tried not to look at them. “the basement, yes.. Please show us” Ammit replied while giggling like a teenager and stepped out of the room. As she followed him Yeg looked at her “I take it the Artifax accepted your offer?” “yes, he did...” she replied and looked over her shoulder at Terrogate who now also left the room and followed them.

The Botan took them to the glass hatch he had showed them earlier. He kneeled down and entered the code, at once with a hiss the round glass door opened. “you can reset the entry code whenever you want.” Yeg said as he started to descent the spiral staircase. Ammit followed the Botan down, circling down until they reached the end. They walked throw a small corridor until they reached a big room. To the right along the wall where 4 holding cells with heavy durasteel doors. To the left was door to separate room, “that is the alchemy lab that you asked for” Yeg said before they could ask. He walked to the centre of the room, on top of a stone platform stood an altar made of the same black stone. “and this... Well.. Ehm..” Sunar looked a little awkward as he tapped on the altar and looked at the metal straps. Ammit stepped on the platform, the altar was perfect it even have drains for the blood. “its beautiful” she said with a smile and looked up at the glass ceiling “beautiful indeed” she added and looked at Terrogate “what do you think? Ready to move in” she said with a smile, wanting to settle down with the Catharian.

**~ End ~**