[ Where the days were once counted by her, they are now blurred together. Nothing. All Inancha knows of is a life in which she is to lead by her own example, by the faith the Collective has put in her. Over time, her magic has become stronger... Her skills in archery more precise, and her thirst for blood unquenchable. It is in the multiple demands and sacrifices that what little doubt and gentleness that remained of her Raen roots has fallen into what seems like a bottomless abyss. By the hands of both Raih and Jebei, her skin has become thicker, her heart colder. What remains of the Inancha that was is unknown, and she is left to be a guiltless, almost selfish being. ]
[ Ah, but it was under the guise of acceptance and a desire of being wanted that had led her down this part of the road. Where she finds pride in having gained enough trust and faith from both Raih and Jebei that she is valued as a strong asset to the Collective. What appears as value is disguised by a blatant utilization of Inancha as nothing more than a weapon. And that is how she has been treated as of late. But that is not what she believes. ]
[ When she is given her final orders before maintaining a rank in Jebei's favor, it is still not made clear. It is her final test, the last part of her to break, the only part of her that has held her back. ]
[ Another life. This time, Khara. And it is to be proven by the delivery of her head. The reasons given to Inancha were simple: she could not be broken, meaning she could not be trusted. Not being broken meant abandonment. Not being broken meant the loss of everything. It is a shame it came to this, but Inancha took her orders without blinking. ]
[ The summoning of her was simple, something Jebei and Raih had assisted in putting together. A letter, words carefully formed to represent the Inancha that was. A short, yet desperate-sounding request to see her and repair the distance that had formed between them. Words that Raih and Jebei create themselves and instruct Inancha to write with her own hand. The arrangement was to meet at Central Shroud, within the forest in the west. Alone. ]
[ Khara made it a point not to spend any time at the estate, not since the fateful day she'd come across Inancha hovering over the prone body of a Hyur, knife in hand. Khara sometimes awoke in the middle of the night because she could still feel the heat in her face, the way Jebei's breath gusted against her skin when he'd leaned in. She could still feel the way Inancha had looked to her, stricken, when she'd walked out of the room.
Sometimes she laid back onto the bed, curled up warmly against Baz's side. Other times she'd get up, and sit in front of one of the far windows of the room, staring at the inky sky until the sun rose. Though she saw Inancha almost daily, she made it a point to look through her rather than at her. She'd placed so much faith in her, and had been disappointed.
Perhaps that had been her fault to begin with.
When she received the letter, she was immediately suspicious, but some long-dead glimmer of hope awakened within her, urging her to see what it was about. All things considered, it was likely a trap of some sort... Or another elaborate means for Jebei to humiliate her again. Regardless, Khara found herself headed to Bentbranch Meadows astride Altan, a quickly-penned note with her location and intentions left for Baz on her side of their bed.
The sun had yet to rise for several hours, but that suited Khara just fine. When she reached their appointed meeting spot, she called upon her darkside as she dismounted, the familiar thrum providing little comfort in the chill morning air. A stiff breeze stirred the branches above her as she placed her hand on the hilt of her blade, drumming her fingers along it for comfort. ]
[ And in good time. Inancha might have felt a brief bout of surprise, were it not for the absolute lack of, well.. Anything within her. What Khara is greeted with is a cold, dead stare as she stands waiting besides Bobo. And while Bobo has managed to keep his spirits about him, it is in his loyalty to Inancha that he stands beside her. The small Au'Ra stands beside him with her head cocked to the side, silver, glowing eyes gazing upon her. ]
You are here.
[ Inancha responds coldly, flatly, and she steps forward. For now, she does not draw her weapon. ]
[ For now, she simply stands there, an icy gaze looking upon Khara with absolutely no concerns in regards to what she has planned. ]
[ Khara's hair was wavy and wild, a far cry from its usual sleek, straight style. If she was lacking sleep, she didn't show it; she was dressed rather practically, the majority of her skin covered in sleek, dark purple armor. It had been a fair few moons since she'd worn anything vaguely resembling her usual provocative manner of dress, though whether this was a conscious choice or not remained to be seen.
She met Inancha's dead stare evenly, noting the lack of emotion in the younger Au Ra's eyes. The glimmer of hope that had buoyed Khara along during her trek to the west of Bentbranch quickly fizzled and died at the sight, though her hand dropped from her blade. ]
... As are you. To what do I owe the pleasure?
[ Seeing Inancha caused her soul to ache. Her words were tinged with a sad, dissonant melody even as she folded her arms across her chest, drinking in the sight of her. She looked so much smaller than Khara remembered; she hadn't really looked at her in what felt like eons. She was so hard now, and so cold.
A damn pity, it was, but Khara had learned to endure. ]
Unless you simply called me for my company, but I somehow doubt that that is the case.
[ Inancha had definitely taken on a different look these days. What used to be elegant, dark cowls and gowns has become silver plated armor and chains. Her newfound upbringing allowing her to emulate the look of the Dotharl that had taken her under his wing. It glistens in the moonlight, creaks and clinks when she adjusts herself ever so slightly before her. Bobo remains still when Inancha takes a step forward. Just one. ]
Your doubt is correct. That is your only triumph, as your steps lead you to a foul decision.
[ Inancha shakes her head very slowly, her eyes never leaving the other Au'Ra. ]
But...
Yes. This does count as form of company.
[ Slowly, her arm raises, reaching for the staff that rests at her back, nestled beneath a bow and collection of arrows. ]
[ Khara could see Jebei in the way Inancha presented herself, down the way she walked and acted. It caused her no end of disgust, but who was she to judge? Inancha was theirs now, eating straight from their palms in much the same way they ate from Zalitai's. The armor lookedstrange on the girl, but fitting in its own unnatural way. Khara could admire that much.
When Inancha stepped forward, Khara shifted slightly, if only to face her fully. ]
Ah, I see I'm not meeting with Inancha this morning, but with Jebei. A pleasure as always, Dotharl.
[ Khara sneered but drew her blade almost instantaneously as her eyes followed Inancha's movements. She pointed its tip towards the smaller girl's chin with a glare, her darkside rising and singing to the sound of blood rushing in her ears. ]
Is this what it's come to, then, dear heart? Having you cut all ties to whatever made you an individual, now? My, what a good weapon you've become!
[ She gave a bark of a laugh. ]
Come, then, let's see what they've taught you!
[ Assuming her favored combat stance, Khara fixed Inancha with a hard expression, though something inside her began to crack. ]
Edited (fuckin tenses HOW DO THEY WORK) 2016-03-03 08:48 (UTC)
[ Inancha feels the cold steel of Khara's blade touch her chin, a chill that wracks her to her very core. It excites her. And despite the jab at who she has become, her brows perk and there is a smile that follows the sharp edge prodding at her soft skin. ]
[ Khara is very right to point out that Inancha has become nothing more than a mere weapon, a borderline copy of the Dotharl she has idolized. Her words do not burn when they bring no thought to provoke her. In the passing time, Inancha has been beaten into submission, forced to kill until the tears stopped. Until the fear left her. It is merely a finalization to the work the Malaguld had started. And she has nothing to feel but a gratefulness for her teachers having fleshed her true potential. She revels in the memories of the Malaguld, but to be a Dotharl... That would be an honor. ]
[ But she will fight like one, and she will bring the severed head of her final heart-string to the very Dotharl that calls for it. And she will be fully forged as an asset and treasure to the Collective. ]
[ Inancha says nothing at Khara's remarks and threats, and jumps a great distance away from her at the invitation. Despite the weight of her armor, Inancha is quick on her feet and grips at her staff tightly. And she wastes no time at all, sparking her first spell-- A strike of hard lightning in her direction, an attempt to provide a lasting deal of damage and potential stunning over time. ]
[ Khara has fought many a mage in her time, and slain far more; while she isn't as practiced as thaumaturgy as she'd like, she'd studied enough to have a working knowledge of the art. She hears Tisiphone most clearly when holding her black mage crystal, and while she and the voidsent had an... "amicable" relationship, she still hadn't quite gotten used to talking to the entity piggybacking on her very existence.
Khara could only imagine the horrors that Jebei and Raih'sae had subjected Inancha to, and she didn't care to dwell on them; they were only atrocities that her meddling would have worsened. While she felt that she and Jebei could have gotten along in another life, thoughts of mending fences with the Arbiter were as distant to her as the stars now, especially considering the way Inancha carried herself.
She was a carbon copy of Jebei. A veritable clone. It made Khara's stomach roil and her mouth taste of ash.
As Inancha channels her spell, Khara calls upon her darkside to surround her in a protective cloak in preparation for the ensuing onslaught. It wouldn't completely negate the damage of the spell, but it would lessen it, and that was all she could hope for. She hissesas veins of electricity singe her form, the smell of seared hair reaching her nostrils as she shakes off the static. It takes several seconds for Khara to re-orient herself before she begins to charge towards Inancha, a battlecry on her lips as she concentrates a burst of shadow energy towards her in a volley, aiming for her feet.
When she gets close enough, she swings her blade in a wide arc before her, aiming for the smaller girl's midsection. Khara knows it won't do if she doesn't aim to kill, but... the sight of Inancha's face makes her stop short in spite of herself, recalculating her blows and aiming for non-vitals. She knows that it may very well cost her her life, but she can't help but to try. ]
[ Inancha shows no fear, even as the darkness that surrounds Khara potentially increases the time it will take for her goal to be met. But that is no matter, nothing to be concerned of. In fact, the longer the battle? The better. Whatever scars Inancha will bear will prove to provide valuable pain, a pain that she can use to increase her own value over time. It is as Jebei would want. ]
[ The delightful smell of charred skin and hair sustains a burst of energy on Inancha's behalf, a tighter grip around her weapon as she prepares for the attack of her former friend. Inancha does not move, tilts her head as her eyes widen in anticipation for what Khara has in store. She hears Bobo screeching behind her in warning and does nothing to react. The closer the other Au'ra comes brings a clearer deduction of what she must be feeling, leaving Inancha fully aware of what's to come. ]
[ She allows the blade to strike her in knowing Khara has no intent on delivering deadly harm. It strikes true, blade managing to cut between the edges of her armor. Inancha is unmoving, almost pleased, and she stares up at Khara with a look supporting it. ]
[ The sound of liquid dripping onto the cold, steel surface of her boots follows as blood pours freely between plates. Yet Inancha stands perfectly still with her gaze locked to Khara's, smile gone save for the light in her eyes. ]
[ Khara watches Inancha's face in particular, even though that hurts her the most. Vestiges of the younger au ra's electric assault cling to her form even as Khara strikes, noting the way Inancha watches her approach.
She doesn't see the Raen's eyes. Only Jebei's. A chill runs up her spine, coupled with a reflexive, molten rage that threatens to overtake her. Bobo's squawks barely register as her blade catches between the plates of Inancha's armor, causing Khara to falter, eyes wide with horror as she recoils.
Part of her vaguely registers that the Warmaster and Arbiter have honed their tool well as her eyes meet Inancha's, the look on the other girl's face causing something to burrow into and hollow out her gut. For a second, Khara swears she sees Jebei's face, and while she hesitates, she grips the hilt of her blade and twists, making a pained noise as her darkside let out a bloodcurdling scream behind her eyes.
Khara tries to think of Baz. She tries to think of his face, and how he'd react to this. She can hear his voice, heavy with disappointment, and she falters for the last time, heat stinging her eyes as she falls to one knee, the blade nearly slipping from her hands. ]
[ In truth, the old Inancha might be horrified at the monster she has become. Many times, she had stood before a mirror, left to watch what once was begin to fade and shape into a smaller copy of the man she had followed. Once, she faltered. Building regret of pushing Baz and Khara away had bubbled up within her and festered, the guilt of knowing she had rejected the two people who were the closest to family she had. ]
[ But they left. The Collective remained... Inancha had enough experience in abandonment to know that her choices were all she had. To leave would be to end up alone again, and that was not an option. Certainly not when they found her so useful. And eventually, the guilt fell away. Nights that used to often go by with silent weeping became merely a dark silence. ]
[ In her training and grooming, pain has no longer become an issue. It is a tool. And Inancha revels in the burning, white-hot pain that radiates in her side and pushes hot blood from its opening. Her eyes dare not to leave Khara as their gazes meet, and the only gesture she offers is a further incline of her head, the same tilt she had often give her in question before her undoing. She feels the blade shift against her, though the grasp of its owner weakens. Jebei was right in saying Khara is still soft, still hanging on the hope of getting her friend back. It would be useful, he said, to use that against her. ]
[ If Inancha could feel surprise any longer, she would feel it in knowing her face is a much stronger weapon than a blade or spell. Cold and thoughtless, Inancha watches as Khara crumbles before her and falls to one knee. Her free hand reaches for the hilt of Khara's blade, grip tight as she works to take it firmly within her plated fingers. ]
Broken.
[ Inancha speaks softly, firmly. ]
But not as instructed.
[ With a bout of force, she works to pry the blade from Khara's grasp, intent on tossing it as far from them as possible. ]
[ Khara barely remembered what the old Inancha had been like at this point; this new one, Jebei II, as she'd dubbed her in her mind, is ruthless. Unyielding. Two traits Khara understood well. Years and years ago, she would have admired the girl before her, with her hardened resolve and even harder gaze. Years and years ago, Khara may very well have been her, content to be forged and used, if only because it meant she was accepted.
When Khara looks up to Inancha, her expression is one of deep, abiding sadness. The grip on her blade is slack as the other Au Ra moves to take it from her, and though her darkside flares, she makes no effort against Inancha. ]
... Broken? Perhaps.
[ Her eyes flutter shut as she sags, eyes falling upon the plated feet before her. She'd never been the mothering type, but even now, she wanted to protect Inancha. To shield her from whatever it was that she'd become, but...
If it was what she wanted, what more could Khara do?
As Inancha's hands prise the sword from her loose grasp, Khara's shoulders begin to shake with quiet laughter. This is all so fruitless. Why did she even deign to try? ]
At least, at the end of the day, I can go to bed as myself. I can wake up as myself, failure or no.
[ She lifts her gaze to Inancha's face again as a smile, soft and genuine, gracing her lips. ]
I know exactly where I stand and where I belong, darling. But can you say the same for yourself?
[ Inancha should have known better than to have a full expectation of what is to come. But it seemed so simple the instant Khara fell to her knees in shame. The sword has been tossed, yet the threat remains. The former Raen looks down upon the woman before her and listens intently, head still tilted and neck still craned. A brow perks when she begins to question to herself what the actual "threat" is. She understood the test as nothing more than what it was: a "test", fully prepared to face that final weight that had been dragging her down. Is it Khara who is the true threat? Or the connection to her? ]
[ Such a strange question to ask herself... But it is brought upon by Khara's remarks. Come to think of it, Jebei had merely advised Inancha of her mission as a way to preserve the Collective and show her strength. Obviously, what lied between her and Khara could be cause for a conflict of interest. ]
[ Inancha stares down at Khara as she lets out a laugh, suggesting a threat of action to her where she clenches at her staff tighter in preparation of fighting back. But still, Khara does not move. No, instead, she uses words and phrases, a suggestion once again that Inancha is not her own. While her expression remains unchanged, there is a very slight, very brief twitch of her right eye. ]
I am...
[ Inancha swallows thickly, not quite understanding the strange fire that has formed in her gut. ]
I am an asset. I am of value.
[ She is needed. The Collective has found use of her and kept her in what she has called home. Jebei is her brother. Raih, her valued teacher. A light begins to glow at the tip of her staff, glowing an array of colors as a spell slowly begins to conjure. But its release is delayed. ]
[ The words leave Khara's lips in a half-whisper as she smiles up at Inancha, something akin to pride in her expression. My, how she'd grown since she'd first met her. She was so different now, in so many ways... Khara had never thought her to be weak, but there was no denying Inancha's strength now.
Khara straightens her self as she watches Inancha's face, seeing no crack through which to pry her fingers. She knows damn well that Inancha is still herself at the end of the day-- she'd always been strong, Raih'sae and Jebei be damned-- but she also knows that it might not be her place to bring her out again. ]
And so you are an asset. What you wanted to be.
[ Khara watches her thoughtfully, resignation rapidly beginning to solidify at the base of her spine as the spell she channels begins to take form. Her darkside began to congeal around her, thickly, as her eyes drank in the sight, and she closes her eyes again. She thinks of Baz, and all of her sorrow at losing Inancha suddenly seems to take a backseat to the fact that she isn't sure how her beloved will manage without her around.
It's with his face in mind that she springs into action, sweeping a leg out from underneath her in a quick, fluid movement in an attempt to flatten Inancha, simultaneously channeling a burst of darkside energy into the ground beneath Inancha's feet. Shadows seep into the earth itself and seemingly kill anything living within and upon it as Khara rolls backwards, picking up her discarded sword.
Tossing her hair out of her eyes, she watches Inancha with the same sadness as before. ]
Should I just refer to you as "asset" from here on out, then? You obviously are Inancha no longer. Or would "weapon" be more apt? "Tool?" "Implement?"
[ A sneer. ]
"Jebei?" "Dotharl?" Tell me, do you stick your nose where it isn't welcome, also? Do you have your own miqo'te lad to bugger on those long, cold nights as well?
[ That bubbling comes to a boil, something in the pit of Inancha's stomach beginning to burn her-- Painfully so. In her training, she has learned to hone her pain and use it as a weapon, as the fuel to her flame. But Inancha has only understood physical pain. Something about this pain... She feels it, but it is not due to the wound that plagues her side. In fact, it seems to hurt worse than the large cut that still gushes with blood. The more Khara speaks, the worse it begins to feel. Inancha's eyes narrow and her lips press into a hard line when the pain provides no answer as to what it is. All she knows is the pain flares as if a limb is pried from her at Khara's claims of her no longer being Inancha. ]
[ Inancha falters, and the swiping of Khara's leg successfully knocks her off of her feet and clamoring to the floor. She voices the impact, a throaty exhale that is forced from her back crashing to the floor and almost steals her entire focus. But it shifts fast when their gazes meet again. ]
[ Once again, she calls her Jebei, and it is no longer taken as a compliment. It is an insult, a pry at Inancha's individuality that she is certain she had obtained in her training. The unknowing status of the pain in her chest is unbearable, but Inancha realizes its potential when her teeth begin to grit. ]
Enough!
[ Inancha quickly releases the spell she had been casting-- Lethargy. If she is to make her move, she must do it swiftly. And allowing Khara to move has only proven to lessen her likelihood of winning this battle in record time. She scrambles to her feet quick, storming towards her with a quickness and with the intent of striking fast. Again, Inancha begins to cast, her time much faster than it had been upon their last meeting. ]
I. Am. Inancha!
[ Apocatastasis for what she is certain will be a far bloodier battle. Again, she casts. This time, ice. Inancha aims it for Khara's feet, her teeth gritting hard against one another as she quickly aims her spell in her direction. ]
[ Inancha's spell finds its mark, leaving Khara sluggish and slow. Spitting a curse, Khara once again exerts her darkside outside of herself, using it as a shield to mitigate whatever it is that Inancha has planned for her. At the other Au Ra's words, Khara can't help but give another bark of a laugh, a bitter hymn eking into her tone when she speaks again. ]
You just said you were an asset-- [ Khara gasps as Inancha's second spell collides with her feet, immobilizing her. With a growl of frustration, Khara pools her darkside in a wide radius on the ground around her and Inancha, wicked spikes materializing and springing from the ground at its edges. She follows this assault with a quick blast of darkside energy in Inancha's direction, imbued with the Dark Arts her mentors in Ishgard had bestowed upon her; should the attack connect, it would render its mark blinded for a time, though the effect was temporary.
Khara's reserves were running low. It was evident in the way her body wilted and in the way her breath came in short, desperate puffs. ]
If you're intent on killing me, do it as Inancha, then! [ She jeers in spite of herself, struggling against the treacherous ice rooting her in place. ] Not as their instrument! Not as their asset!
[ She twirls her sword in her hands, a ghost of the bravado she usually flaunted. She thinks of Baz, and hums a soft apology. Her darkside dims and begins to fade as she uses the last of it to salt the earth once more, attempting to rip and tear at her opponent for all the good it will do her, one last time. ]
I'm right here, Dotharl! [ Her voice cracks as she practically roars her words, brandishing her sword at the other woman's approach. ] Yours for the taking!
[ That feeling swells and festers, bites her from the inside and tears her apart. It's sickening, tightening, and Inancha feels as if she might suffocate. The discomfort makes her angry. While the anger is nagging at her and making her ill, she reminds herself that it can be useful. Yes. Get angry. Get furious. Use that anger to turn it back on the one who has caused it and make her regret it in tormenting punishment. ]
[ The implication that Inancha is not fighting on her own will is as infuriating as it is true. It's in that truth that she feels her anger boil and pop in her gut, and something in the back of her mind begs for her to focus on that. But the part that Jebei and Raih'sae have forged? It is louder, threatening, and forces Inancha to rush for her victim. Even as the sharp darkness thrusts from the earth and tears at her armor and freshly-exposed skin, Inancha charges. ]
[ One slash, two, a second attempt on Khara's end tearing Inancha's helmet and cutting clean at her brow and allowing blood to curtain her features. She cries out, a loud roar as she conjures yet another spell. It is then that Khara's attack successfully blinds her. But Inancha raises her staff and sticks keenly to where she recalls her enemies placement. ]
SHUT UP!
[ Fire. And a violent torrent of it that sparks at Khara's frozen placement. She can only hope the large blast of fire encircles the threat before her as she struggles to see. In her blinded state, blood creeps into open eyes and burns. She swipes at them, even as she continues to rush forward where she can hear the blazes crackle and howl. In her blinded state, she can hear the power that surrounds the two of them and clashes, and Inancha screams yet again as she swings her staff violently. With only the darkness to see, her hearing is all she has, and she wishes for the sound of her staff colliding with Khara's head. ]
[ While Khara's reserves run through their last paces, she calls forth the remaining vestiges of her darkside in order to augment her skin itself, Tisiphone's trilling wail echoing distantly in her ears as the flames of Inancha's spell rush towards her, the heat stinging her eyes and fracturing the ice at her feet. Khara's last ditch effort is to roll out of the way of the brunt of the spell, though the flames lick her body and cause her to swear, hot and loud. ]
You've become... so strong... [ She breathes, something akin to pride welling in her chest and holding hands with her sadness even as she turns on Inancha, blade shaking in her grasp. Even with her shadowskin firmly in place, her body is seared with burns and numerous wounds. The skirts of her armor, already frayed to begin with, are singed, embers from their edges crumbling to the ground.
Inancha's scream echoes in her ears, and something inside of Khara shifts. She swallows down hard on a rapidly building lump in her throat as she sheathes her sword, knowing the blindness inflicted by her attack will fade within seconds. Moving quickly, she darts behind Inancha, lunging forward and grabbing her wrists from behind in a grip tempered by years of swinging a greatsword nearly twice her size. ]
I never should have left you. [ Khara murmurs, voice straining with her efforts. Exhaustion pools in her limbs, her eyes stinging from Inancha's assault. ] I should have stayed. I should have helped you.
[ Her voice cracks, and her grip slackens momentarily. Perhaps this is Baz's influence, this softness; try as she might to kill her tenderness, it remains resilient when faced with her old friend. She laughs, softly and bitterly. ] You are more Xaela than I am, now. You've found your place.
I cannot bring myself to hurt you anymore. Not when you can't defend yourself. Even if I could, you've worked me over pretty well. [ With that, Khara releases the girl, deftly sidestepping any followup swings of her staff. Clutching her side, Khara laughs again, the burns on her body screaming in chorus with the violent trill emanating from the voidsent residing within her very core. ]
I don't want to take that belonging away from you... [ Khara murmurs her words, choking on a wet bubble of blood that seeps past the corners of her lips as she talks. ] ... But I can't die here. Bastian... He would never forgive me... And you know how he gets when he's angry.
[ She laughs, the sound devolving into a choking cough. Every breath feels like a stab between her ribs, the blade twisting. ]
I'm sorry for failing you not once, but twice. [ Weakly, Khara lifts a hand and circles her fingers around the hilt of her blade, one last time. This final confrontation would need to be quick and decisive. ] Jebei and Raih'sae will only have my head if they seek to claim it themselves. I refuse to let my blood sully your hands.
[ Inancha can hardly hear her over the shrill echoes of the darkness surrounding them, of the scraping of her armor and the way her heart pounds through her ears. In the blind shroud that has taken over her, Inancha has become more aware of the deep cut in her side, beginning to feel weak and ill. Blood pools around her armor in each corner Khara's attacks have reached, and she is successfully taken by the Xaela's grasp. She roughly growls, teeth gritting hard enough to make her jaw sore. ]
[ The way her heart aches completely overtakes her, the frustration of it all only causing her to become angrier and pained. Blind eyes widen when she finally hears Khara speak-- I never should have left you. Claims of failure and Inancha's success in abandoning her Raen roots completely, only bearing an incorrect shade of horns and scales. ]
[ Slowly, ever so slowly, her eyesight begins to return. A blurred visual of their surroundings comes back, clearing when she turns her gaze to see the battered woman releasing her and clutching her blade. Inancha breaks away from her, stumbling far back and exhaling a harsh, raspy growl. It is clear that the battle will not end the way Inancha wishes, and she will return home empty-handed. She will fail. It adds to the anger, yet the idea of actually killing the woman before her seems less possible than success. It makes the idea of failure unimportant. ]
[ When her sight is clear, she furrows her brows at Khara, unaware of the way her eyes begin to well up and overflow with tears that mix with the blood curtaining her features. ]
You...
You--
[ Inancha stumbles again, feeling dizzy. It is clear that she has lost a lot of blood, wasted her reserve of aether. Her magic is rendered useless, and she tosses her staff to the ground. ]
--Doubted me! I am...
A trinket to you! To Bastian! My novelty was worn and you left me!
[ Raising her voice is difficult, and her voice cracks. Where words are always so hard to form in the first place, Inancha suffers in sharing the source of anger that fuels her now. ]
[ She gestures to herself, holding her arm out before pounding her palm at her chest hard. Metal gloves clanking upon a metal breastplate. ]
[ Khara's had drops at the sight of Inancha's face. Her first impulse is to rush forward, to grab up the smaller girl in her arms, but she doesn't. Instead, she sways unsteadily on her feet as she watches her, her expression mirroring her old friend's.
She listens in silence, heat that has nothing to do with the fire thrown at her stinging her eyes and causing them to water. ]
I was weak, Inancha. [ Her voice cracks, and a mournful melody enters her tone as she speaks, rapidly, the words rushing together. ] I was weak and I knew how important this was to you, and I know you wanted this. You wanted their respect. You wanted--
[ Khara brings a hand to her forehead, rasping her fingers through her hair as she falls to her knees. Tisiphone rises to the forefront of her consciousness, in warning. Don't put yourself in such a vulnerable position.
... But Khara doesn't listen, and bows her head. ]
... You have my respect. You always have. I'm sorry I abandoned you. [ She takes a shuddering breath, tear tracks cutting swathes of grime and blood off of her face. ] I can spin it how I want and say I was trying to protect you, or that I was trying... trying to keep you from changing, but...
[ Khara chokes on her own breath, bringing a palm to her face. ]
I... just didn't want to lose you. I was selfish... But look at you now.
[ She looks up to Inancha and smiles through her tears. ] You did this yourself. Halone, you are gorgeous...
[ Khara remains on her knees, laughing, each heave a brutal assault on her ribcage. ]
... Your path is yours. It always was, even when we met that day in Ul'dah.
[ Tears are not an unfamiliar substance-- Crying is not an unfamiliar act. But it is something that occurs rarely and in very small doses. Inancha had once believed her tears had completely dried and withered away when the Collective had finally finished what the Malaguld started. So many months have passed where a feeling meant nothing more than fuel to her weapon, where she could separate the source of her pain from her heart and mind and could ignore her regrets. But that very regret stands before her, falls to her knees and pours her heart out. ]
[ Khara's words are wounding, but only in the sense that Inancha begins to realize the mistake she has made. The desire to have a closeness and family sparked from childhood, remained in her travels, yet she never realized she had obtained it well before joining the Collective. Somehow knowing Khara's feelings and the respect she holds solidifies that. ]
[ And Inancha cracks. ]
[ Those eyes that had began to well with tears squint, a pained expression coloring her the brightest it ever has in her entire life. Even through a blood-coated face, her eyes glow through the tears that flood through. That look of pain clear enough to be seen miles away. Inancha exhales a pained sound, choking on words that won't come as her dizziness over comes her. Such a great loss of blood and aether has destroyed her, and Inancha falls before Khara just the same. ]
[ What has she done? She's nearly killed her friend, her family. Had full intentions on mercilessly destroying her and bringing mere scraps to her superiors. The small Au'Ra falls to her knees, arms extended outward as her entire body flops. The torrent of emotions that completely wrack her at once have her in a guilt-ridden, terrifying panic and she clutches her head. Plated fingers cling and tug at her hair, and Inancha screams into the dirt. She sobs uncontrollably and shakes, unable to speak in kind to the incredible words Khara has shared with her. ]
[ What a mistake. What a failure. All this time, and here Inancha still has no idea who or what she is. ]
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[ Ah, but it was under the guise of acceptance and a desire of being wanted that had led her down this part of the road. Where she finds pride in having gained enough trust and faith from both Raih and Jebei that she is valued as a strong asset to the Collective. What appears as value is disguised by a blatant utilization of Inancha as nothing more than a weapon. And that is how she has been treated as of late. But that is not what she believes. ]
[ When she is given her final orders before maintaining a rank in Jebei's favor, it is still not made clear. It is her final test, the last part of her to break, the only part of her that has held her back. ]
[ Another life. This time, Khara. And it is to be proven by the delivery of her head. The reasons given to Inancha were simple: she could not be broken, meaning she could not be trusted. Not being broken meant abandonment. Not being broken meant the loss of everything. It is a shame it came to this, but Inancha took her orders without blinking. ]
[ The summoning of her was simple, something Jebei and Raih had assisted in putting together. A letter, words carefully formed to represent the Inancha that was. A short, yet desperate-sounding request to see her and repair the distance that had formed between them. Words that Raih and Jebei create themselves and instruct Inancha to write with her own hand. The arrangement was to meet at Central Shroud, within the forest in the west. Alone. ]
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Sometimes she laid back onto the bed, curled up warmly against Baz's side. Other times she'd get up, and sit in front of one of the far windows of the room, staring at the inky sky until the sun rose. Though she saw Inancha almost daily, she made it a point to look through her rather than at her. She'd placed so much faith in her, and had been disappointed.
Perhaps that had been her fault to begin with.
When she received the letter, she was immediately suspicious, but some long-dead glimmer of hope awakened within her, urging her to see what it was about. All things considered, it was likely a trap of some sort... Or another elaborate means for Jebei to humiliate her again. Regardless, Khara found herself headed to Bentbranch Meadows astride Altan, a quickly-penned note with her location and intentions left for Baz on her side of their bed.
The sun had yet to rise for several hours, but that suited Khara just fine. When she reached their appointed meeting spot, she called upon her darkside as she dismounted, the familiar thrum providing little comfort in the chill morning air. A stiff breeze stirred the branches above her as she placed her hand on the hilt of her blade, drumming her fingers along it for comfort. ]
... I'm here.
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You are here.
[ Inancha responds coldly, flatly, and she steps forward. For now, she does not draw her weapon. ]
[ For now, she simply stands there, an icy gaze looking upon Khara with absolutely no concerns in regards to what she has planned. ]
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She met Inancha's dead stare evenly, noting the lack of emotion in the younger Au Ra's eyes. The glimmer of hope that had buoyed Khara along during her trek to the west of Bentbranch quickly fizzled and died at the sight, though her hand dropped from her blade. ]
... As are you. To what do I owe the pleasure?
[ Seeing Inancha caused her soul to ache. Her words were tinged with a sad, dissonant melody even as she folded her arms across her chest, drinking in the sight of her. She looked so much smaller than Khara remembered; she hadn't really looked at her in what felt like eons. She was so hard now, and so cold.
A damn pity, it was, but Khara had learned to endure. ]
Unless you simply called me for my company, but I somehow doubt that that is the case.
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Your doubt is correct. That is your only triumph, as your steps lead you to a foul decision.
[ Inancha shakes her head very slowly, her eyes never leaving the other Au'Ra. ]
But...
Yes. This does count as form of company.
[ Slowly, her arm raises, reaching for the staff that rests at her back, nestled beneath a bow and collection of arrows. ]
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When Inancha stepped forward, Khara shifted slightly, if only to face her fully. ]
Ah, I see I'm not meeting with Inancha this morning, but with Jebei. A pleasure as always, Dotharl.
[ Khara sneered but drew her blade almost instantaneously as her eyes followed Inancha's movements. She pointed its tip towards the smaller girl's chin with a glare, her darkside rising and singing to the sound of blood rushing in her ears. ]
Is this what it's come to, then, dear heart? Having you cut all ties to whatever made you an individual, now? My, what a good weapon you've become!
[ She gave a bark of a laugh. ]
Come, then, let's see what they've taught you!
[ Assuming her favored combat stance, Khara fixed Inancha with a hard expression, though something inside her began to crack. ]
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[ Khara is very right to point out that Inancha has become nothing more than a mere weapon, a borderline copy of the Dotharl she has idolized. Her words do not burn when they bring no thought to provoke her. In the passing time, Inancha has been beaten into submission, forced to kill until the tears stopped. Until the fear left her. It is merely a finalization to the work the Malaguld had started. And she has nothing to feel but a gratefulness for her teachers having fleshed her true potential. She revels in the memories of the Malaguld, but to be a Dotharl... That would be an honor. ]
[ But she will fight like one, and she will bring the severed head of her final heart-string to the very Dotharl that calls for it. And she will be fully forged as an asset and treasure to the Collective. ]
[ Inancha says nothing at Khara's remarks and threats, and jumps a great distance away from her at the invitation. Despite the weight of her armor, Inancha is quick on her feet and grips at her staff tightly. And she wastes no time at all, sparking her first spell-- A strike of hard lightning in her direction, an attempt to provide a lasting deal of damage and potential stunning over time. ]
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Khara could only imagine the horrors that Jebei and Raih'sae had subjected Inancha to, and she didn't care to dwell on them; they were only atrocities that her meddling would have worsened. While she felt that she and Jebei could have gotten along in another life, thoughts of mending fences with the Arbiter were as distant to her as the stars now, especially considering the way Inancha carried herself.
She was a carbon copy of Jebei. A veritable clone. It made Khara's stomach roil and her mouth taste of ash.
As Inancha channels her spell, Khara calls upon her darkside to surround her in a protective cloak in preparation for the ensuing onslaught. It wouldn't completely negate the damage of the spell, but it would lessen it, and that was all she could hope for. She hissesas veins of electricity singe her form, the smell of seared hair reaching her nostrils as she shakes off the static. It takes several seconds for Khara to re-orient herself before she begins to charge towards Inancha, a battlecry on her lips as she concentrates a burst of shadow energy towards her in a volley, aiming for her feet.
When she gets close enough, she swings her blade in a wide arc before her, aiming for the smaller girl's midsection. Khara knows it won't do if she doesn't aim to kill, but... the sight of Inancha's face makes her stop short in spite of herself, recalculating her blows and aiming for non-vitals. She knows that it may very well cost her her life, but she can't help but to try. ]
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[ The delightful smell of charred skin and hair sustains a burst of energy on Inancha's behalf, a tighter grip around her weapon as she prepares for the attack of her former friend. Inancha does not move, tilts her head as her eyes widen in anticipation for what Khara has in store. She hears Bobo screeching behind her in warning and does nothing to react. The closer the other Au'ra comes brings a clearer deduction of what she must be feeling, leaving Inancha fully aware of what's to come. ]
[ She allows the blade to strike her in knowing Khara has no intent on delivering deadly harm. It strikes true, blade managing to cut between the edges of her armor. Inancha is unmoving, almost pleased, and she stares up at Khara with a look supporting it. ]
[ The sound of liquid dripping onto the cold, steel surface of her boots follows as blood pours freely between plates. Yet Inancha stands perfectly still with her gaze locked to Khara's, smile gone save for the light in her eyes. ]
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She doesn't see the Raen's eyes. Only Jebei's. A chill runs up her spine, coupled with a reflexive, molten rage that threatens to overtake her. Bobo's squawks barely register as her blade catches between the plates of Inancha's armor, causing Khara to falter, eyes wide with horror as she recoils.
Part of her vaguely registers that the Warmaster and Arbiter have honed their tool well as her eyes meet Inancha's, the look on the other girl's face causing something to burrow into and hollow out her gut. For a second, Khara swears she sees Jebei's face, and while she hesitates, she grips the hilt of her blade and twists, making a pained noise as her darkside let out a bloodcurdling scream behind her eyes.
Khara tries to think of Baz. She tries to think of his face, and how he'd react to this. She can hear his voice, heavy with disappointment, and she falters for the last time, heat stinging her eyes as she falls to one knee, the blade nearly slipping from her hands. ]
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[ But they left. The Collective remained... Inancha had enough experience in abandonment to know that her choices were all she had. To leave would be to end up alone again, and that was not an option. Certainly not when they found her so useful. And eventually, the guilt fell away. Nights that used to often go by with silent weeping became merely a dark silence. ]
[ In her training and grooming, pain has no longer become an issue. It is a tool. And Inancha revels in the burning, white-hot pain that radiates in her side and pushes hot blood from its opening. Her eyes dare not to leave Khara as their gazes meet, and the only gesture she offers is a further incline of her head, the same tilt she had often give her in question before her undoing. She feels the blade shift against her, though the grasp of its owner weakens. Jebei was right in saying Khara is still soft, still hanging on the hope of getting her friend back. It would be useful, he said, to use that against her. ]
[ If Inancha could feel surprise any longer, she would feel it in knowing her face is a much stronger weapon than a blade or spell. Cold and thoughtless, Inancha watches as Khara crumbles before her and falls to one knee. Her free hand reaches for the hilt of Khara's blade, grip tight as she works to take it firmly within her plated fingers. ]
Broken.
[ Inancha speaks softly, firmly. ]
But not as instructed.
[ With a bout of force, she works to pry the blade from Khara's grasp, intent on tossing it as far from them as possible. ]
You will fail. As you have before many times.
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When Khara looks up to Inancha, her expression is one of deep, abiding sadness. The grip on her blade is slack as the other Au Ra moves to take it from her, and though her darkside flares, she makes no effort against Inancha. ]
... Broken? Perhaps.
[ Her eyes flutter shut as she sags, eyes falling upon the plated feet before her. She'd never been the mothering type, but even now, she wanted to protect Inancha. To shield her from whatever it was that she'd become, but...
If it was what she wanted, what more could Khara do?
As Inancha's hands prise the sword from her loose grasp, Khara's shoulders begin to shake with quiet laughter. This is all so fruitless. Why did she even deign to try? ]
At least, at the end of the day, I can go to bed as myself. I can wake up as myself, failure or no.
[ She lifts her gaze to Inancha's face again as a smile, soft and genuine, gracing her lips. ]
I know exactly where I stand and where I belong, darling. But can you say the same for yourself?
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[ Such a strange question to ask herself... But it is brought upon by Khara's remarks. Come to think of it, Jebei had merely advised Inancha of her mission as a way to preserve the Collective and show her strength. Obviously, what lied between her and Khara could be cause for a conflict of interest. ]
[ Inancha stares down at Khara as she lets out a laugh, suggesting a threat of action to her where she clenches at her staff tighter in preparation of fighting back. But still, Khara does not move. No, instead, she uses words and phrases, a suggestion once again that Inancha is not her own. While her expression remains unchanged, there is a very slight, very brief twitch of her right eye. ]
I am...
[ Inancha swallows thickly, not quite understanding the strange fire that has formed in her gut. ]
I am an asset. I am of value.
[ She is needed. The Collective has found use of her and kept her in what she has called home. Jebei is her brother. Raih, her valued teacher. A light begins to glow at the tip of her staff, glowing an array of colors as a spell slowly begins to conjure. But its release is delayed. ]
The Collective is where I belong.
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[ The words leave Khara's lips in a half-whisper as she smiles up at Inancha, something akin to pride in her expression. My, how she'd grown since she'd first met her. She was so different now, in so many ways... Khara had never thought her to be weak, but there was no denying Inancha's strength now.
Khara straightens her self as she watches Inancha's face, seeing no crack through which to pry her fingers. She knows damn well that Inancha is still herself at the end of the day-- she'd always been strong, Raih'sae and Jebei be damned-- but she also knows that it might not be her place to bring her out again. ]
And so you are an asset. What you wanted to be.
[ Khara watches her thoughtfully, resignation rapidly beginning to solidify at the base of her spine as the spell she channels begins to take form. Her darkside began to congeal around her, thickly, as her eyes drank in the sight, and she closes her eyes again. She thinks of Baz, and all of her sorrow at losing Inancha suddenly seems to take a backseat to the fact that she isn't sure how her beloved will manage without her around.
It's with his face in mind that she springs into action, sweeping a leg out from underneath her in a quick, fluid movement in an attempt to flatten Inancha, simultaneously channeling a burst of darkside energy into the ground beneath Inancha's feet. Shadows seep into the earth itself and seemingly kill anything living within and upon it as Khara rolls backwards, picking up her discarded sword.
Tossing her hair out of her eyes, she watches Inancha with the same sadness as before. ]
Should I just refer to you as "asset" from here on out, then? You obviously are Inancha no longer. Or would "weapon" be more apt? "Tool?" "Implement?"
[ A sneer. ]
"Jebei?" "Dotharl?" Tell me, do you stick your nose where it isn't welcome, also? Do you have your own miqo'te lad to bugger on those long, cold nights as well?
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[ Inancha falters, and the swiping of Khara's leg successfully knocks her off of her feet and clamoring to the floor. She voices the impact, a throaty exhale that is forced from her back crashing to the floor and almost steals her entire focus. But it shifts fast when their gazes meet again. ]
[ Once again, she calls her Jebei, and it is no longer taken as a compliment. It is an insult, a pry at Inancha's individuality that she is certain she had obtained in her training. The unknowing status of the pain in her chest is unbearable, but Inancha realizes its potential when her teeth begin to grit. ]
Enough!
[ Inancha quickly releases the spell she had been casting-- Lethargy. If she is to make her move, she must do it swiftly. And allowing Khara to move has only proven to lessen her likelihood of winning this battle in record time. She scrambles to her feet quick, storming towards her with a quickness and with the intent of striking fast. Again, Inancha begins to cast, her time much faster than it had been upon their last meeting. ]
I. Am. Inancha!
[ Apocatastasis for what she is certain will be a far bloodier battle. Again, she casts. This time, ice. Inancha aims it for Khara's feet, her teeth gritting hard against one another as she quickly aims her spell in her direction. ]
I am Inancha!
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You just said you were an asset-- [ Khara gasps as Inancha's second spell collides with her feet, immobilizing her. With a growl of frustration, Khara pools her darkside in a wide radius on the ground around her and Inancha, wicked spikes materializing and springing from the ground at its edges. She follows this assault with a quick blast of darkside energy in Inancha's direction, imbued with the Dark Arts her mentors in Ishgard had bestowed upon her; should the attack connect, it would render its mark blinded for a time, though the effect was temporary.
Khara's reserves were running low. It was evident in the way her body wilted and in the way her breath came in short, desperate puffs. ]
If you're intent on killing me, do it as Inancha, then! [ She jeers in spite of herself, struggling against the treacherous ice rooting her in place. ] Not as their instrument! Not as their asset!
[ She twirls her sword in her hands, a ghost of the bravado she usually flaunted. She thinks of Baz, and hums a soft apology. Her darkside dims and begins to fade as she uses the last of it to salt the earth once more, attempting to rip and tear at her opponent for all the good it will do her, one last time. ]
I'm right here, Dotharl! [ Her voice cracks as she practically roars her words, brandishing her sword at the other woman's approach. ] Yours for the taking!
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[ The implication that Inancha is not fighting on her own will is as infuriating as it is true. It's in that truth that she feels her anger boil and pop in her gut, and something in the back of her mind begs for her to focus on that. But the part that Jebei and Raih'sae have forged? It is louder, threatening, and forces Inancha to rush for her victim. Even as the sharp darkness thrusts from the earth and tears at her armor and freshly-exposed skin, Inancha charges. ]
[ One slash, two, a second attempt on Khara's end tearing Inancha's helmet and cutting clean at her brow and allowing blood to curtain her features. She cries out, a loud roar as she conjures yet another spell. It is then that Khara's attack successfully blinds her. But Inancha raises her staff and sticks keenly to where she recalls her enemies placement. ]
SHUT UP!
[ Fire. And a violent torrent of it that sparks at Khara's frozen placement. She can only hope the large blast of fire encircles the threat before her as she struggles to see. In her blinded state, blood creeps into open eyes and burns. She swipes at them, even as she continues to rush forward where she can hear the blazes crackle and howl. In her blinded state, she can hear the power that surrounds the two of them and clashes, and Inancha screams yet again as she swings her staff violently. With only the darkness to see, her hearing is all she has, and she wishes for the sound of her staff colliding with Khara's head. ]
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You've become... so strong... [ She breathes, something akin to pride welling in her chest and holding hands with her sadness even as she turns on Inancha, blade shaking in her grasp. Even with her shadowskin firmly in place, her body is seared with burns and numerous wounds. The skirts of her armor, already frayed to begin with, are singed, embers from their edges crumbling to the ground.
Inancha's scream echoes in her ears, and something inside of Khara shifts. She swallows down hard on a rapidly building lump in her throat as she sheathes her sword, knowing the blindness inflicted by her attack will fade within seconds. Moving quickly, she darts behind Inancha, lunging forward and grabbing her wrists from behind in a grip tempered by years of swinging a greatsword nearly twice her size. ]
I never should have left you. [ Khara murmurs, voice straining with her efforts. Exhaustion pools in her limbs, her eyes stinging from Inancha's assault. ] I should have stayed. I should have helped you.
[ Her voice cracks, and her grip slackens momentarily. Perhaps this is Baz's influence, this softness; try as she might to kill her tenderness, it remains resilient when faced with her old friend. She laughs, softly and bitterly. ] You are more Xaela than I am, now. You've found your place.
I cannot bring myself to hurt you anymore. Not when you can't defend yourself. Even if I could, you've worked me over pretty well. [ With that, Khara releases the girl, deftly sidestepping any followup swings of her staff. Clutching her side, Khara laughs again, the burns on her body screaming in chorus with the violent trill emanating from the voidsent residing within her very core. ]
I don't want to take that belonging away from you... [ Khara murmurs her words, choking on a wet bubble of blood that seeps past the corners of her lips as she talks. ] ... But I can't die here. Bastian... He would never forgive me... And you know how he gets when he's angry.
[ She laughs, the sound devolving into a choking cough. Every breath feels like a stab between her ribs, the blade twisting. ]
I'm sorry for failing you not once, but twice. [ Weakly, Khara lifts a hand and circles her fingers around the hilt of her blade, one last time. This final confrontation would need to be quick and decisive. ] Jebei and Raih'sae will only have my head if they seek to claim it themselves. I refuse to let my blood sully your hands.
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[ The way her heart aches completely overtakes her, the frustration of it all only causing her to become angrier and pained. Blind eyes widen when she finally hears Khara speak-- I never should have left you. Claims of failure and Inancha's success in abandoning her Raen roots completely, only bearing an incorrect shade of horns and scales. ]
[ Slowly, ever so slowly, her eyesight begins to return. A blurred visual of their surroundings comes back, clearing when she turns her gaze to see the battered woman releasing her and clutching her blade. Inancha breaks away from her, stumbling far back and exhaling a harsh, raspy growl. It is clear that the battle will not end the way Inancha wishes, and she will return home empty-handed. She will fail. It adds to the anger, yet the idea of actually killing the woman before her seems less possible than success. It makes the idea of failure unimportant. ]
[ When her sight is clear, she furrows her brows at Khara, unaware of the way her eyes begin to well up and overflow with tears that mix with the blood curtaining her features. ]
You...
You--
[ Inancha stumbles again, feeling dizzy. It is clear that she has lost a lot of blood, wasted her reserve of aether. Her magic is rendered useless, and she tosses her staff to the ground. ]
--Doubted me! I am...
A trinket to you! To Bastian! My novelty was worn and you left me!
[ Raising her voice is difficult, and her voice cracks. Where words are always so hard to form in the first place, Inancha suffers in sharing the source of anger that fuels her now. ]
[ She gestures to herself, holding her arm out before pounding her palm at her chest hard. Metal gloves clanking upon a metal breastplate. ]
I made my path! I... Wanted...
[ Inancha's expression tightens, lips quivering. ]
Respect.
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[ Khara's had drops at the sight of Inancha's face. Her first impulse is to rush forward, to grab up the smaller girl in her arms, but she doesn't. Instead, she sways unsteadily on her feet as she watches her, her expression mirroring her old friend's.
She listens in silence, heat that has nothing to do with the fire thrown at her stinging her eyes and causing them to water. ]
I was weak, Inancha. [ Her voice cracks, and a mournful melody enters her tone as she speaks, rapidly, the words rushing together. ] I was weak and I knew how important this was to you, and I know you wanted this. You wanted their respect. You wanted--
[ Khara brings a hand to her forehead, rasping her fingers through her hair as she falls to her knees. Tisiphone rises to the forefront of her consciousness, in warning. Don't put yourself in such a vulnerable position.
... But Khara doesn't listen, and bows her head. ]
... You have my respect. You always have. I'm sorry I abandoned you. [ She takes a shuddering breath, tear tracks cutting swathes of grime and blood off of her face. ] I can spin it how I want and say I was trying to protect you, or that I was trying... trying to keep you from changing, but...
[ Khara chokes on her own breath, bringing a palm to her face. ]
I... just didn't want to lose you. I was selfish... But look at you now.
[ She looks up to Inancha and smiles through her tears. ] You did this yourself. Halone, you are gorgeous...
[ Khara remains on her knees, laughing, each heave a brutal assault on her ribcage. ]
... Your path is yours. It always was, even when we met that day in Ul'dah.
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[ Khara's words are wounding, but only in the sense that Inancha begins to realize the mistake she has made. The desire to have a closeness and family sparked from childhood, remained in her travels, yet she never realized she had obtained it well before joining the Collective. Somehow knowing Khara's feelings and the respect she holds solidifies that. ]
[ And Inancha cracks. ]
[ Those eyes that had began to well with tears squint, a pained expression coloring her the brightest it ever has in her entire life. Even through a blood-coated face, her eyes glow through the tears that flood through. That look of pain clear enough to be seen miles away. Inancha exhales a pained sound, choking on words that won't come as her dizziness over comes her. Such a great loss of blood and aether has destroyed her, and Inancha falls before Khara just the same. ]
[ What has she done? She's nearly killed her friend, her family. Had full intentions on mercilessly destroying her and bringing mere scraps to her superiors. The small Au'Ra falls to her knees, arms extended outward as her entire body flops. The torrent of emotions that completely wrack her at once have her in a guilt-ridden, terrifying panic and she clutches her head. Plated fingers cling and tug at her hair, and Inancha screams into the dirt. She sobs uncontrollably and shakes, unable to speak in kind to the incredible words Khara has shared with her. ]
[ What a mistake. What a failure. All this time, and here Inancha still has no idea who or what she is. ]