[ Honestly, Marazhai hated being on the bridge. He only did so when he had to, since the chattering of the mon-keigh was irritating. It's why he'd found his little corner where no one but the Rogue Trader dared to come bother him. The Aeldari may be treated with some (deliciously fearful—) curiosity, but the Drukhari? Oh, no, no, the crew had quickly learned to keep their distance. Considering he tended to use his time there to sharpen his blades to a touch-fine sharpness, it was an impression that he was happy to keep.
The treasured few of her retinue were a little braver, though. They still largely ignored him, but. They still didn't look like they were about to piss themselves at the very sight of him. It still makes it a surprise when any of them approach. And today, the fact that it's Heinrix? ]
Oh, if it isnât my favorite mon-keigh.
[ The sarcasm is positively dripping from every syllable, and itâs just as much a poison as the one that coats his blades. However, thereâs some sincerity there, as unpleasant as Heinrix would find that. The Rogue Trader had given Marazhai the freedom to hunt in the lower decks, and that was something that Marazhai was genuinely grateful for, though heâd never admit it. But still. The terror and pain of those little peons sated his hungers, but it was still simple. When he wanted something more savory?
Well. The uptight little "Inquisitor" provided a fine, fine meal. Since he'd gotten to know him, he almost regretted that he'd had so little chance to see how he'd fared in Commoragh. At least imagining it gave him a lovely fantasy to indulge in.
His smug sneer widens, in fact, since there's no reason to hide that something foul is on his mind. It gets under the man's skin so effectively to make him paranoid. ]
[ Heinrix's jaw clenched, a tightening that wound up to his eyes, and brow. The way he almost drew himself up and tighter, from just the sound of the Xenos's voice. He would not betray the Rogue Trader, of course, for they had asked him to allow the useful tools to remain intact, but there was a part of him that did not see the use in Marazhai in the same way that he did Yrliet. At least the Eredar had some value, but the Drukhari only lived and reveled in violence and suffering.
But here he was, trying to make sense of it, he supposed. Sense of the fact that Marazhai was still here and not in the hands of the Inquisition, which would have made so much more sense that it made his limbs tremble with the need to take him and pull the Drukhari apart piece by piece, and let that mad cackle fade.
His eye twitched, and his lips compressed. ]
I certainly doubt that I am anything close to a favorite, given how the Rogue Trader treats you.
[ He said, his tone clipped, and short. Oh, but who else could control him? ]
I want to understand. [ He lied. ]
Why it is that a Drukhari is still aboard the ship, unmolested, and allowed to roam the lower decks freely.
[ Did Heinrix particularly care about those who lived in the bowels of the ship? Not really, but he didn't wish them ill, either, and Marazhai was a distinct ill. ]
[ Marazhai hums neutrally, and he flips the blade in his hand idly. He'd been in the process of sharpening it (another habit that tends to keep the rabble well away from his little corner), so it was already in hand. However, despite the odd, alien culture of the Drukhari, Marazhai was actually easier to read than most. Certainly easier than the more stony Yrliet. The sheer fact that his vicious, near-manic edge had cooled meant that Heinrix had found— Not a softer spot, exactly. More a point of consideration.
Heinrix was right, after all. The Rogue Trader was a favorite, but not for any of the reasons that he "liked" the Inquisitor. But as much as he'd like to gloat about convincing the dear Lord Captain to hunt with him, it wasn't something he wanted to push. Yet, at least.
Though, that's probably part of the answer to his question. The thought of that, especially Heinrix's choice of words, makes him laugh sharply as the mirth returns. ]
You donât know?
[ He practically purrs out the question in return, and after another flip of the blade, he tucks it into the sheath at his side. Though that concession is more because of the very sharp look that their Lord Captain is giving from their throne. Obviously, theyâre watching this intently, if only because thereâs a very reasonable chance that itâll turn to violence. ]
And here I thought that Inquisitors were supposed to be intelligent for your kind. [ He clicks his tongue mockingly, but he explains anyways. ] I am useful. Does it need to be anything more than that? Youâve fought my kin. Slaughtered them most deliciously, in fact, but not easily. Having even a single Drukhari on the side of the Rogue Trader is worth the weight of a dozen of your soldiers. To say nothing of a Dracon.
[ Itâs a simple answer, and honestly, itâs one he doesnât actually think Heinrix is stupid enough to miss. If he were, he would have reacted more like the zealous woman. No, heâs sure that Heinrix understands it perfectly well, but still would have preferred to make his blood boil underneath his skin rather than allow him on the ship. Itâs easier on that little mind of his that way. ]
Ah, but no, that's not what the Rogue Trader said, is it...?
[ He cants his head with a grin and leans just a little bit closer. Itâs an unsettling sort of effect because of the drastic difference in their height and the long proportions of the Eldar. Heâs able to truly loom in a way that even the imposing Ulfar canât. ]
[ There is a tightening around one of his eyes, the left one, and Heinrix's lips seem to somehow thin even further. Like the presence of Marazhai alone was bad enough, but his goading certainly seems to motivate Heinrix to even further levels of disdain. Because of course it does. Outwardly, the Inquisitor stands tall, and looks up at Marazhai's looming form like he's merely a puffed up creature, trying to loom in on him, but Heinrix doesn't budge.
The signs are there though, the Dracon is adept enough to notice. The slight tightening of a fist, the slightest of strain around his eyes and nose. The air between them is chill, like a ruffling of a cool northern breeze. Heinrix is good at hiding it, but he is still a human fighting through multiple layers of self-control at every given moment, some things have to give. ]
If it were merely intrigue, I would think the mystery we have on our hands would more than suffice.
[ It is stiff, and slightly defensive. It does bother him, of course. Why wouldn't it? To give up a portion of ones ship for the Emperor would be expected â he would expect the Rogue Trader to willingly sacrifice any Psykers aboard to the Black Ships were they to come calling. To even sacrifice the Voidborn to their mission is acceptable.
To a Xenos' bloodlust, however, is far different. It bothers him. Yrliet does not ask such sacrifices, and while he does not condone her presence, her value is a much neater set of marks on the ledger.
Marazhai's is a far more complicated calculation. ]
If it were me? [ He said, the air turning even cooler. ] I would have you on a much tighter leash. [ A slight lift of his lips. ] The only way to keep a Xenos in check, in my opinion, is to properly control them.
Heinrix may be better at steeling himself and hiding his emotions, but that still only worked so well when it came to Drukhari. Besides the fact that they literally fed off such discomfort, they're also trained from birth to sniff it out and intensify it. It takes practice with mon-keigh, true, what with their ugly, distorted faces, but Marazhai knows them better than most of his kin. A less experienced Drukhari might struggle with Heinrix's more disciplined countenace, but him?
He chuckles darkly. That defensive reply and that (extra) tightness in his posture is as clear as day. His eyes sharply, hungrily take in every detail. It's an intensity like an animal about to pounce and disembowel him. Though in a Drukhari's case, that's less analogy than simply predictive...
So, as there's a chill, he grins just a little more, but it's ultimately brief. "If it were me" is exciting, but where it ends up is less so. That sharp grin is quick to turn into a scowl and a hiss, and Marazhai straightens back up. He doesn't feel any need to hide his displeasure, since Heinrix has already heard as much*. He doesn't like the metaphor of being leashed yet :). ]
Oh, I am sure you would. A leash so tight that it chokes rather than simply controls, hm?
[ He could make the point more directly, but he just doesn't see the need to explain it. He is leashed, at least by his own standards, and it's a tight one. The continued glare over Heinrix's shoulder makes that clear. ]
It would be funny to see you try. [ He shifts with a laugh, half-crossing his arms. ] Why, next time I go hunting, why not join me? Maybe you could. Or maybe you'll find a little bloodshed— Hm. Not as satisfying. Your mind is too small for that. Let us say relaxing instead.
[ Heinrix's eyes do not miss the way he pulls back slightly, the displeasure of leashes not lost on him. Of course he does not want them. Drkhari are slaves to their impulses, yes, but they have such warped little minds, that they see the indulgence in such violence as freedom, even though it is anything but. Were he in a better mood â were Marazhai slightly less of a thorn in the Inquisitor's side â perhaps he would have laughed at him, or shown him what he meant.
But the Rogue Trader's eyes bore into the back of his neck just as much as over his shoulder, and his back remained ramrod straight. ]
Do you think I shy away from bloodshed, Xenos?
[ He asked, his tone lightened, slightly. A touch mocking. ] My bloodshed serves purpose. Perhaps you should see it from my end, instead.
[ What he means, of course, is that he would take the blade to the Drukhari, but what Marazhai reads from it is easily misconstrued. It almost sounds an invitation, though it isn't genuine. ]
I have not been an agent of the Inquisition for so long to not draw some measure of necessary pleasure from my work.
[ Even speaking on it sounds somewhat... regulated. ]
[ He barks out a laugh for the question before Heinrix even finishes, and the smug sneer easily returns. ]
No... No, I know well that you do not. I remember the sting of your weapon well. [ He cants his head as his fingers thrum on one of the hilts of his blade. ] Just as I am sure you remember mine.
[ ...Granted. Referring to their previous scuffles was only meant to rile Heinrix up, since for Marazhai, they were an embarassing loss as a whole. Every time he'd crossed paths with the Rogue Trader and her retinue, it hadn't exactly ended in his favor... Save for what brought him upon this sickening ship, perhaps, but even then. It didn't exactly feel like a victory to be here.
Perhaps that's why he's glad for this little "break" where Heinrix has chosen to indulge his curiosity. It helps soothe his own distaste at being here at all. The thruming hand stops, since it's not meant as a serious threat so much as a theatrical punctuation to his words. ]
Mm... But that is why you mon-keigh are pitiable. So small. So constrained. [ He clicks his tongue, and his gaze pointedly drifts to the nearest piece o regalia from the Imperium, but that part is left to implication. He's back to Heinrix quickly enough. ] Why separate your bloodshed from pleasure? Calling it necessary or for a purpose. What excuses.
Better the life lived in restraint, than one forever susceptible to the call of Slaanesh, isn't it?
[ It's a low blow, truly. Heinrix is an Inquisitor, and has studied the Xenos more than one would expect, for one so loyal to the Emperor, but he understands the truth in knowledge. That it should be carefully kept, hidden from the masses, but used like an expertly wielded knife. Like now. Perhaps it is unwise to try and cut, as it gives away just how much Marazhai's words actually do hit close to home, but Heinrix was a touch too blind when it came to the Xenos.
Particularly the Xenos that had dogged their every step for so long.
Though Marazhai knew that Heinrix had his own temptations, such as that machine that had been constructed by the followers of Tzeentch. How long had he looked into the chaos? How long had it held sway over him? Would that connection eventually be tugged just as surely as Marazhai's own leash?
There is a pause of consideration, even so. ]
Perhaps you invite me, because you know the moment you step out of line, I will not hesitate to deal with you as I see fit.
[ Surely, the Rogue Trader would understand. And surely that would not be something that lead Heinrix down a path that he did not forsee. ]
[ Again, Heinrix's words manage to easily knock the grin from Marazhai's face, but there's a flash of vicious anger in his eyes this time as his expression settles. He hisses like an animal, and the grip on the hilt of his blade tightens away from being playful.
The mention of Slaanesh isn't what prompts the reaction so much as the fact that Heinrix knows about the sore spot in the first place. It's no secret in the galaxy that Drukhari are uniquely vile to stave off the attention of the Chaos God. No, they reveled in that fact, because embracing it only made their reputation more fearsome. However... There was a difference between what amounted to helpful propaganda and seeing the truth of it firsthand. That's showing weakness. Bad enough for a human to see the sort of madness it pushed him towards, but Heinrix especially— ]
Be careful with that wagging tongue of yours. I might think it prettier sliced in half while still in your skull.
[ The warning is practically growled out, and there's never any question to a Drukhari threat. If he could, he would. The feeling is surely mutual, though, which is why the real person holding both of their leashes is currently sighing up on their throne and wondering if she should just go deal with this now... But luckily, the fact that Heinrix also gives even a smidgen of interest prevents Marazhai's temper from getting fully triggered. ]
Hnnh— [ Even so, it still takes a moment. He breathes out another sound that's closer to an animalistic hiss, but it turns to a sigh by the end. ] What fun that would be. I am eager to see more of your witchery.
[ That's sarcastic, considering he'd been on the receiving end of it already. However, twisted as Drukhari were, the unique pain that wasn't quite pain of Heinrix's biomancy wasn't wholly off-putting. It's only through experience that he understood it better, since their natural vulnerability to Slaanesh also meant that there weren't exactly Drukhari Psykers. Yet, that also meant that he knew of Heinrix's unique vulnerability. It was only his rigid temperament that kept him from falling prey to the hungry eyes of the void. ]
...So, why not. So long as you are aware of the agreement that the Rogue Trader made with me. I will stay inside those lines. Think of it as coming on a little trip for your own satisfaction that I'm following the rules.
[ Heinrix can't even help the self-satisfied twitch of his lips at the threat. To the stoic Biomancer, that's practically a grin of enjoyment, and he cannot help but enjoy the fact that he drew out the violence from him. Sure, he was always violent, but the pointed nature, the fact that he lashed out meant that Marazhai had not been pleased.
After all, his psyker abilities were only one way of many that he could strike a nerve. ]
A chaperone for your violent hunger?
[ He asked, stiffly. He would not enjoy it, but keeping the drukhari under control was only one of many roles that he would likely need to adopt while he was a part of the Rogue Trader's retinue. If he would be the only one holding against the void itself, and all of the dark, chaotic temptations it offered, then so be it.
(Someone, perhaps, should suggest to Heinrix that this was neither required nor asked for, and yet. ]
If anyone amongst our little...crew should, I think it would have to be me. Very well. Next we drift into the void, expect me to ensure you are complying with the Rogue Trader's command.
[ That twitch of his lips makes Marazhai want to rip them off, but he holds back his simmering temper. There's a better opportunity at hand that he doesn't want to spoil, after all. The returned question may be stiff and carry the weight of an "absolutely not", but as attuned to emotions as he naturally is, he knows it won't be. It's much like the Rogue Trader, in fact. He can feel the disgust and displeasure, but it's not so extreme as to leave Marazhai to his own devices and overlook it.
...Of course, their Rogue Trader had more than simply that. There was curiosity, and that was a feeling that he had every intention of digging into, in time. For now, though. It seems he'll need to sate Heinrix's particular "hunger" first. ]
Ha— What fun. I almost look forward to seeing you squirm under such responsibility.
[ Marazhai's posture relaxes. It seems that he's gotten everything he wanted out of this conversation, even if Heinrix had been the one to approach. Whatever further conversation they have, Marazhai won't be nearly as engaged.
It's only a few days later that their business in this sector is finished up, and the Rogue Trader sends out the call to prepare for a warp jump. It's always a busy time on the ship, even before the Drukhari's arrival, but that business had once been relegated to the officer's deck and the more middle decks. Now, the lowest decks tended to become their own sort of activity. There had only been a few jumps since Marazhai was allowed his hunts, but even the first had been more than enough for the stories and rumors to spread. Stories and rumors that Heinrix has surely heard about.
It makes their elevator ride down into the ship feel a bit more ominous, most likely. These were parts of the ship that were almost foreign to those who are allowed to be on the Officer's Deck. The Rogue Trader's choice hadn't been wholly without reason, after all. These were the parts of the ship so far-flung in the gargantuan structure that it's where the worst of humanity festered. Heretics, cultists, those who doubted the Emperor because they had been born in this darkness and never seen such light— That is where Marazhai was allowed his distasteful play.
The Drukhari examines a blade with a low, apprasing hum. The core is a wet, sickly green, having had its vicious poison freshly applied. ]
Hmm... I can almost taste the fear already. You mon-keigh are so easy to shrink into cowardice.
[ He's baiting Heinrix, and obviously so. However, sharp-eyed as Heinrix is, he can probably see the subtle signs clearly enough. Though Marazhai enjoyed his hunts, he hated the jumps themselves. Feared them. It's tempered with the prospect of his brand of fun, but there's still a very real anxiety present in his posture. ]
[ The more Heinrix hears about these lower decks that Marazhai hunts in, the more he wonders... if perhaps he had been foolish to doubt the Rogue Trader. He was no... soft soul, willing to fight for the people around them, an iconoclast that shirks the will of the emperor for the people that struggle underneath the weight of the Empire. No, Heinrix was decidedly not that kind of man. He would project it, yes, but when push came to shove, he was an agent of the Empire, and that meant he perpetuated the seeds of rot that led to places like this festering and straying from the Golden Throne's light.
Heinrix had been... nervous before they started to descend into the bowels of the ship. How could he not be? He doesn't let it show, of course, but that curling anticipation made him feel near-sick from the idea of working with the Xenos so closely, watching him throughout his hunt. But... at the same time, who else could do so? Who else could stand that temptation from the void? Who else but him knew the allure of it and could turn their heads away to say no? (Plenty of people, but Heinrix really was That kind of guy.)
His eyes flicked to Marazhai playing with the knife, even as he adjusted his belt where his force-sword lay at his hip, a comforting weight. ]
Oh? Theirs, I assume? [ One eye narrowed slightly, the one that had once been... nothing, and he turned to look out toward Marazhai's prey. He would point out that these are the furthest that humanity has to offer, the weakest, but he does not want to tempt the Drukhari out and towards greater prey. ] I suppose when the only acknowledgment they've heard from the Bridge is vague vox-announcements and a killer that steals through their shadows, they have little recourse, don't you think?
[ He does not pity them, realizing who he hunted. If he found a heretic or a dark thread of the possible betrayal to the throne, he, too, would not hold back his blade.
Maybe they'll get lucky, and both of their hungers will be sated this jump. }
Hmm⊠Well, it could be yours, mon-keigh. The air is so thick down here that things get⊠muddled.
[ Itâs one barb traded for another. Itâs not exactly true, after all, since Heinrixâs fear would be distinctly different, heâs sure. Heâs gotten the barest taste of it before when heâd made his way into Tervantiasâs foul lab a time or two while Heinrix was being âworkedâ on, but it truly was muddled there. Marazhai may have a talent for drawing out pain, but Tervantias was an artist by comparison. ]
RegardlessâŠ
[ He purrs out the word as the elevator slows, and the moment the gates open, he quickly steps out. It might feel like he wants to lose Heinrix as a tail if not for how he continues the conversation. Slaanesh whispers in the warp, and the best way to drown it out is to let the thunder of his own excited heartbeat take over. ]
Theyâre low quality prey-things, trueâŠ
[ He cuts down a corridor sharply, like heâs scented prey, and at the very, very least, it begins to show a secondary value for this excursion. Despite his towering height and the barbed, sharp armor, Marazhai still manages to move nearly silently down the corridor. His steps are sharp, but careful, like he can intuit which panels of flooring are looser and might squeak under the weight. The Drukhari were notably vicious and hostile Xenos, so how many records could there be to explain just how they were so deadly? Observing one at work wasnât without value, distasteful though it may be.
Yet, this also wasnât a hunt he was particularly concerned about, so far as challenges go. His steps are light, but thatâs years of brutal training at work. So, he feels no need to be truly silent as he pulls the other blade from the sheath to prepare it as well. ]
But they must feel so betrayed by theirâ Oh, what do you call her? Lord Captain. Letting a xenos run free⊠[ He smirks ] A feeling you share with even these dregs, I think. How painful.
[ It is, of course. He hates it, that the Lord Captain wanted to preserve Marazahai's sanity by allowing him to cut his way through the population certainly still made his skin crawl. It was not, exactly, that Heinrix would go out of his way to protect them, exactly. The people of the Empire lived to serve the Emperor, but that did not mean that he wanted them to fall to the Xenos.
And yet. Here he was. Force sword strapped to his side, a chill pushing in at the edges of his perception just from the experience of being so close to Marazhai. ]
I'm afraid you are correct, but as the Lord Captain has freedom to do as she sees fit... I will at least make sure you take only what is required. The Emperor has granted her the freedom and leniency to take action, after all.
[ Icily; a puff of vapor from his lips when he said: ] You should thank her.
[ the walls, too, looked to be forming ice crystals. It is not fear that suffuses the Inquisitor, it is anger. What is there to do but accept it, and do what is required? At least he will prevent further harm.
One of the voidborn walked into the hallway, and stopped.
Paused.
The fear was palpable ]
and bless the dlc for showing me wtf the lower decks are like (bad)
[ Marazhai feels the chill on his skin, and with Heinrixâs witch powers, it practically seeps in down to the bone. For most, it would be the sort of uncomfortable that verges on painful, and, true, it is for Marazhai too. But for drukhari, thatâs a pleasure. He hums out a low, quiet trill of a noise, and he flashes Heinrix a wild smile when he says he should thank the Captain. Itâs like heâs deliberating whether to say something sharp or to put something sharp in Heinrixâs belly.
But the noise of easy, fearful prey moves him on from the harder bounty that is the Inquisitor. ]
Ha— You know, Inquisitor, maybe I will.
[ Marazhai stalks forward in quick steps, and with his height, the distance is closed so quickly that the voidborn barely has time to stumble over themselves. They only manage half a turn, half an utterance of âXenosâ before Marazhai grabs the pale, gangly creature by its meagre hair and lifts them off their feet. That pain pulls out a scream and no less than a purr from the drukhari. ]
Mmmm⊠You know, I much prefer those of you I find on the battlefield.
[ The voidborn kicks at Marazhai as best they can, but his armor does its job, and he doesnât even flinch. It does it further when his grip tightens enough for the clawed metal to dig into their scalp deeply. Blood drips down their pale skin, but Marazhai instead turns to look at Heinrix. Itâs exactly whatâs expected from his kind, but itâs another thing to still to see that this is a slow slaughter. ]
The rabble you fill your ships with⊠Pathetic things. Donât you think?
god i can't wait to get back to that (also i had to make more icons)
[ Heinrix is no stranger to such tortures, to the misery that comes from a slow, aching death. He sees it, and by the Emperor, he feels it in their blood, something he can barely keep from tapping into. Not to soothe the pain â for Heinrix does not even think of soothing it â but as a masochist, it is to feel their death, as if another on his soul will add to the tally, and be his to number.
The Drukhari will not, of course, remember this nobody. Normally Heinrix would not either, because they were the rabble, he was correct about that. He does not think of the victims of random Xenos atrocities to be something to strike into his ledger.
It is because he is watching them. Because he also knows the Lord Captain will not. ]
Every being under the Emperor's Light is given the opportunity to thrive. However, the reaches of man are far, and the further they become from his light, the more pathetic they become.
[ It's practiced, of course. The Voidborn so often were rabble. Of the people who would be taken, they are the least useful.
But he still rankles, thinking of Marazhai taking them. It grows colder even still, the sprinkling of ice and frost on the walls. ]
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đȘ bully an inquisitor what could go wrong
The treasured few of her retinue were a little braver, though. They still largely ignored him, but. They still didn't look like they were about to piss themselves at the very sight of him. It still makes it a surprise when any of them approach. And today, the fact that it's Heinrix? ]
Oh, if it isnât my favorite mon-keigh.
[ The sarcasm is positively dripping from every syllable, and itâs just as much a poison as the one that coats his blades. However, thereâs some sincerity there, as unpleasant as Heinrix would find that. The Rogue Trader had given Marazhai the freedom to hunt in the lower decks, and that was something that Marazhai was genuinely grateful for, though heâd never admit it. But still. The terror and pain of those little peons sated his hungers, but it was still simple. When he wanted something more savory?
Well. The uptight little "Inquisitor" provided a fine, fine meal. Since he'd gotten to know him, he almost regretted that he'd had so little chance to see how he'd fared in Commoragh. At least imagining it gave him a lovely fantasy to indulge in.
His smug sneer widens, in fact, since there's no reason to hide that something foul is on his mind. It gets under the man's skin so effectively to make him paranoid. ]
Do what do I owe the pleasure?
no subject
But here he was, trying to make sense of it, he supposed. Sense of the fact that Marazhai was still here and not in the hands of the Inquisition, which would have made so much more sense that it made his limbs tremble with the need to take him and pull the Drukhari apart piece by piece, and let that mad cackle fade.
His eye twitched, and his lips compressed. ]
I certainly doubt that I am anything close to a favorite, given how the Rogue Trader treats you.
[ He said, his tone clipped, and short. Oh, but who else could control him? ]
I want to understand. [ He lied. ]
Why it is that a Drukhari is still aboard the ship, unmolested, and allowed to roam the lower decks freely.
[ Did Heinrix particularly care about those who lived in the bowels of the ship? Not really, but he didn't wish them ill, either, and Marazhai was a distinct ill. ]
no subject
Heinrix was right, after all. The Rogue Trader was a favorite, but not for any of the reasons that he "liked" the Inquisitor. But as much as he'd like to gloat about convincing the dear Lord Captain to hunt with him, it wasn't something he wanted to push. Yet, at least.
Though, that's probably part of the answer to his question. The thought of that, especially Heinrix's choice of words, makes him laugh sharply as the mirth returns. ]
You donât know?
[ He practically purrs out the question in return, and after another flip of the blade, he tucks it into the sheath at his side. Though that concession is more because of the very sharp look that their Lord Captain is giving from their throne. Obviously, theyâre watching this intently, if only because thereâs a very reasonable chance that itâll turn to violence. ]
And here I thought that Inquisitors were supposed to be intelligent for your kind. [ He clicks his tongue mockingly, but he explains anyways. ] I am useful. Does it need to be anything more than that? Youâve fought my kin. Slaughtered them most deliciously, in fact, but not easily. Having even a single Drukhari on the side of the Rogue Trader is worth the weight of a dozen of your soldiers. To say nothing of a Dracon.
[ Itâs a simple answer, and honestly, itâs one he doesnât actually think Heinrix is stupid enough to miss. If he were, he would have reacted more like the zealous woman. No, heâs sure that Heinrix understands it perfectly well, but still would have preferred to make his blood boil underneath his skin rather than allow him on the ship. Itâs easier on that little mind of his that way. ]
Ah, but no, that's not what the Rogue Trader said, is it...?
[ He cants his head with a grin and leans just a little bit closer. Itâs an unsettling sort of effect because of the drastic difference in their height and the long proportions of the Eldar. Heâs able to truly loom in a way that even the imposing Ulfar canât. ]
I intrigue her. What, does that bother you?
emerges from the land of drywall
The signs are there though, the Dracon is adept enough to notice. The slight tightening of a fist, the slightest of strain around his eyes and nose. The air between them is chill, like a ruffling of a cool northern breeze. Heinrix is good at hiding it, but he is still a human fighting through multiple layers of self-control at every given moment, some things have to give. ]
If it were merely intrigue, I would think the mystery we have on our hands would more than suffice.
[ It is stiff, and slightly defensive. It does bother him, of course. Why wouldn't it? To give up a portion of ones ship for the Emperor would be expected â he would expect the Rogue Trader to willingly sacrifice any Psykers aboard to the Black Ships were they to come calling. To even sacrifice the Voidborn to their mission is acceptable.
To a Xenos' bloodlust, however, is far different. It bothers him. Yrliet does not ask such sacrifices, and while he does not condone her presence, her value is a much neater set of marks on the ledger.
Marazhai's is a far more complicated calculation. ]
If it were me? [ He said, the air turning even cooler. ] I would have you on a much tighter leash. [ A slight lift of his lips. ] The only way to keep a Xenos in check, in my opinion, is to properly control them.
like the kool-aid man presumably
Heinrix may be better at steeling himself and hiding his emotions, but that still only worked so well when it came to Drukhari. Besides the fact that they literally fed off such discomfort, they're also trained from birth to sniff it out and intensify it. It takes practice with mon-keigh, true, what with their ugly, distorted faces, but Marazhai knows them better than most of his kin. A less experienced Drukhari might struggle with Heinrix's more disciplined countenace, but him?
He chuckles darkly. That defensive reply and that (extra) tightness in his posture is as clear as day. His eyes sharply, hungrily take in every detail. It's an intensity like an animal about to pounce and disembowel him. Though in a Drukhari's case, that's less analogy than simply predictive...
So, as there's a chill, he grins just a little more, but it's ultimately brief. "If it were me" is exciting, but where it ends up is less so. That sharp grin is quick to turn into a scowl and a hiss, and Marazhai straightens back up. He doesn't feel any need to hide his displeasure, since Heinrix has already heard as much*. He doesn't like the metaphor of being leashed
yet :). ]Oh, I am sure you would. A leash so tight that it chokes rather than simply controls, hm?
[ He could make the point more directly, but he just doesn't see the need to explain it. He is leashed, at least by his own standards, and it's a tight one. The continued glare over Heinrix's shoulder makes that clear. ]
It would be funny to see you try. [ He shifts with a laugh, half-crossing his arms. ] Why, next time I go hunting, why not join me? Maybe you could. Or maybe you'll find a little bloodshed— Hm. Not as satisfying. Your mind is too small for that. Let us say relaxing instead.
putting them up just to knock them down đ
But the Rogue Trader's eyes bore into the back of his neck just as much as over his shoulder, and his back remained ramrod straight. ]
Do you think I shy away from bloodshed, Xenos?
[ He asked, his tone lightened, slightly. A touch mocking. ] My bloodshed serves purpose. Perhaps you should see it from my end, instead.
[ What he means, of course, is that he would take the blade to the Drukhari, but what Marazhai reads from it is easily misconstrued. It almost sounds an invitation, though it isn't genuine. ]
I have not been an agent of the Inquisition for so long to not draw some measure of necessary pleasure from my work.
[ Even speaking on it sounds somewhat... regulated. ]
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[ He barks out a laugh for the question before Heinrix even finishes, and the smug sneer easily returns. ]
No... No, I know well that you do not. I remember the sting of your weapon well. [ He cants his head as his fingers thrum on one of the hilts of his blade. ] Just as I am sure you remember mine.
[ ...Granted. Referring to their previous scuffles was only meant to rile Heinrix up, since for Marazhai, they were an embarassing loss as a whole. Every time he'd crossed paths with the Rogue Trader and her retinue, it hadn't exactly ended in his favor... Save for what brought him upon this sickening ship, perhaps, but even then. It didn't exactly feel like a victory to be here.
Perhaps that's why he's glad for this little "break" where Heinrix has chosen to indulge his curiosity. It helps soothe his own distaste at being here at all. The thruming hand stops, since it's not meant as a serious threat so much as a theatrical punctuation to his words. ]
Mm... But that is why you mon-keigh are pitiable. So small. So constrained. [ He clicks his tongue, and his gaze pointedly drifts to the nearest piece o regalia from the Imperium, but that part is left to implication. He's back to Heinrix quickly enough. ] Why separate your bloodshed from pleasure? Calling it necessary or for a purpose. What excuses.
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[ It's a low blow, truly. Heinrix is an Inquisitor, and has studied the Xenos more than one would expect, for one so loyal to the Emperor, but he understands the truth in knowledge. That it should be carefully kept, hidden from the masses, but used like an expertly wielded knife. Like now. Perhaps it is unwise to try and cut, as it gives away just how much Marazhai's words actually do hit close to home, but Heinrix was a touch too blind when it came to the Xenos.
Particularly the Xenos that had dogged their every step for so long.
Though Marazhai knew that Heinrix had his own temptations, such as that machine that had been constructed by the followers of Tzeentch. How long had he looked into the chaos? How long had it held sway over him? Would that connection eventually be tugged just as surely as Marazhai's own leash?
There is a pause of consideration, even so. ]
Perhaps you invite me, because you know the moment you step out of line, I will not hesitate to deal with you as I see fit.
[ Surely, the Rogue Trader would understand. And surely that would not be something that lead Heinrix down a path that he did not forsee. ]
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The mention of Slaanesh isn't what prompts the reaction so much as the fact that Heinrix knows about the sore spot in the first place. It's no secret in the galaxy that Drukhari are uniquely vile to stave off the attention of the Chaos God. No, they reveled in that fact, because embracing it only made their reputation more fearsome. However... There was a difference between what amounted to helpful propaganda and seeing the truth of it firsthand. That's showing weakness. Bad enough for a human to see the sort of madness it pushed him towards, but Heinrix especially— ]
Be careful with that wagging tongue of yours. I might think it prettier sliced in half while still in your skull.
[ The warning is practically growled out, and there's never any question to a Drukhari threat. If he could, he would. The feeling is surely mutual, though, which is why the real person holding both of their leashes is currently sighing up on their throne and wondering if she should just go deal with this now... But luckily, the fact that Heinrix also gives even a smidgen of interest prevents Marazhai's temper from getting fully triggered. ]
Hnnh— [ Even so, it still takes a moment. He breathes out another sound that's closer to an animalistic hiss, but it turns to a sigh by the end. ] What fun that would be. I am eager to see more of your witchery.
[ That's sarcastic, considering he'd been on the receiving end of it already. However, twisted as Drukhari were, the unique pain that wasn't quite pain of Heinrix's biomancy wasn't wholly off-putting. It's only through experience that he understood it better, since their natural vulnerability to Slaanesh also meant that there weren't exactly Drukhari Psykers. Yet, that also meant that he knew of Heinrix's unique vulnerability. It was only his rigid temperament that kept him from falling prey to the hungry eyes of the void. ]
...So, why not. So long as you are aware of the agreement that the Rogue Trader made with me. I will stay inside those lines. Think of it as coming on a little trip for your own satisfaction that I'm following the rules.
no subject
After all, his psyker abilities were only one way of many that he could strike a nerve. ]
A chaperone for your violent hunger?
[ He asked, stiffly. He would not enjoy it, but keeping the drukhari under control was only one of many roles that he would likely need to adopt while he was a part of the Rogue Trader's retinue. If he would be the only one holding against the void itself, and all of the dark, chaotic temptations it offered, then so be it.
(Someone, perhaps, should suggest to Heinrix that this was neither required nor asked for, and yet. ]
If anyone amongst our little...crew should, I think it would have to be me. Very well. Next we drift into the void, expect me to ensure you are complying with the Rogue Trader's command.
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...Of course, their Rogue Trader had more than simply that. There was curiosity, and that was a feeling that he had every intention of digging into, in time. For now, though. It seems he'll need to sate Heinrix's particular "hunger" first. ]
Ha— What fun. I almost look forward to seeing you squirm under such responsibility.
[ Marazhai's posture relaxes. It seems that he's gotten everything he wanted out of this conversation, even if Heinrix had been the one to approach. Whatever further conversation they have, Marazhai won't be nearly as engaged.
It's only a few days later that their business in this sector is finished up, and the Rogue Trader sends out the call to prepare for a warp jump. It's always a busy time on the ship, even before the Drukhari's arrival, but that business had once been relegated to the officer's deck and the more middle decks. Now, the lowest decks tended to become their own sort of activity. There had only been a few jumps since Marazhai was allowed his hunts, but even the first had been more than enough for the stories and rumors to spread. Stories and rumors that Heinrix has surely heard about.
It makes their elevator ride down into the ship feel a bit more ominous, most likely. These were parts of the ship that were almost foreign to those who are allowed to be on the Officer's Deck. The Rogue Trader's choice hadn't been wholly without reason, after all. These were the parts of the ship so far-flung in the gargantuan structure that it's where the worst of humanity festered. Heretics, cultists, those who doubted the Emperor because they had been born in this darkness and never seen such light— That is where Marazhai was allowed his distasteful play.
The Drukhari examines a blade with a low, apprasing hum. The core is a wet, sickly green, having had its vicious poison freshly applied. ]
Hmm... I can almost taste the fear already. You mon-keigh are so easy to shrink into cowardice.
[ He's baiting Heinrix, and obviously so. However, sharp-eyed as Heinrix is, he can probably see the subtle signs clearly enough. Though Marazhai enjoyed his hunts, he hated the jumps themselves. Feared them. It's tempered with the prospect of his brand of fun, but there's still a very real anxiety present in his posture. ]
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Heinrix had been... nervous before they started to descend into the bowels of the ship. How could he not be? He doesn't let it show, of course, but that curling anticipation made him feel near-sick from the idea of working with the Xenos so closely, watching him throughout his hunt. But... at the same time, who else could do so? Who else could stand that temptation from the void? Who else but him knew the allure of it and could turn their heads away to say no? (Plenty of people, but Heinrix really was That kind of guy.)
His eyes flicked to Marazhai playing with the knife, even as he adjusted his belt where his force-sword lay at his hip, a comforting weight. ]
Oh? Theirs, I assume? [ One eye narrowed slightly, the one that had once been... nothing, and he turned to look out toward Marazhai's prey. He would point out that these are the furthest that humanity has to offer, the weakest, but he does not want to tempt the Drukhari out and towards greater prey. ] I suppose when the only acknowledgment they've heard from the Bridge is vague vox-announcements and a killer that steals through their shadows, they have little recourse, don't you think?
[ He does not pity them, realizing who he hunted. If he found a heretic or a dark thread of the possible betrayal to the throne, he, too, would not hold back his blade.
Maybe they'll get lucky, and both of their hungers will be sated this jump. }
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[ Itâs one barb traded for another. Itâs not exactly true, after all, since Heinrixâs fear would be distinctly different, heâs sure. Heâs gotten the barest taste of it before when heâd made his way into Tervantiasâs foul lab a time or two while Heinrix was being âworkedâ on, but it truly was muddled there. Marazhai may have a talent for drawing out pain, but Tervantias was an artist by comparison. ]
RegardlessâŠ
[ He purrs out the word as the elevator slows, and the moment the gates open, he quickly steps out. It might feel like he wants to lose Heinrix as a tail if not for how he continues the conversation. Slaanesh whispers in the warp, and the best way to drown it out is to let the thunder of his own excited heartbeat take over. ]
Theyâre low quality prey-things, trueâŠ
[ He cuts down a corridor sharply, like heâs scented prey, and at the very, very least, it begins to show a secondary value for this excursion. Despite his towering height and the barbed, sharp armor, Marazhai still manages to move nearly silently down the corridor. His steps are sharp, but careful, like he can intuit which panels of flooring are looser and might squeak under the weight. The Drukhari were notably vicious and hostile Xenos, so how many records could there be to explain just how they were so deadly? Observing one at work wasnât without value, distasteful though it may be.
Yet, this also wasnât a hunt he was particularly concerned about, so far as challenges go. His steps are light, but thatâs years of brutal training at work. So, he feels no need to be truly silent as he pulls the other blade from the sheath to prepare it as well. ]
But they must feel so betrayed by theirâ Oh, what do you call her? Lord Captain. Letting a xenos run free⊠[ He smirks ] A feeling you share with even these dregs, I think. How painful.
https://tenor.com/USQH.gif
And yet. Here he was. Force sword strapped to his side, a chill pushing in at the edges of his perception just from the experience of being so close to Marazhai. ]
I'm afraid you are correct, but as the Lord Captain has freedom to do as she sees fit... I will at least make sure you take only what is required. The Emperor has granted her the freedom and leniency to take action, after all.
[ Icily; a puff of vapor from his lips when he said: ] You should thank her.
[ the walls, too, looked to be forming ice crystals. It is not fear that suffuses the Inquisitor, it is anger. What is there to do but accept it, and do what is required? At least he will prevent further harm.
One of the voidborn walked into the hallway, and stopped.
Paused.
The fear was palpable ]
and bless the dlc for showing me wtf the lower decks are like (bad)
But the noise of easy, fearful prey moves him on from the harder bounty that is the Inquisitor. ]
Ha— You know, Inquisitor, maybe I will.
[ Marazhai stalks forward in quick steps, and with his height, the distance is closed so quickly that the voidborn barely has time to stumble over themselves. They only manage half a turn, half an utterance of âXenosâ before Marazhai grabs the pale, gangly creature by its meagre hair and lifts them off their feet. That pain pulls out a scream and no less than a purr from the drukhari. ]
Mmmm⊠You know, I much prefer those of you I find on the battlefield.
[ The voidborn kicks at Marazhai as best they can, but his armor does its job, and he doesnât even flinch. It does it further when his grip tightens enough for the clawed metal to dig into their scalp deeply. Blood drips down their pale skin, but Marazhai instead turns to look at Heinrix. Itâs exactly whatâs expected from his kind, but itâs another thing to still to see that this is a slow slaughter. ]
The rabble you fill your ships with⊠Pathetic things. Donât you think?
god i can't wait to get back to that (also i had to make more icons)
The Drukhari will not, of course, remember this nobody. Normally Heinrix would not either, because they were the rabble, he was correct about that. He does not think of the victims of random Xenos atrocities to be something to strike into his ledger.
It is because he is watching them. Because he also knows the Lord Captain will not. ]
Every being under the Emperor's Light is given the opportunity to thrive. However, the reaches of man are far, and the further they become from his light, the more pathetic they become.
[ It's practiced, of course. The Voidborn so often were rabble. Of the people who would be taken, they are the least useful.
But he still rankles, thinking of Marazhai taking them. It grows colder even still, the sprinkling of ice and frost on the walls. ]
How many of this rabble will sate you, Xenos?