Valefor
The Sith Eternal
Posts: 284
Affiliation: Sith Eternal
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Post by Valefor on Mar 21, 2024 18:32:53 GMT -8
INTERLUDE - TERRA Prime - Excarga System
Despite a couple early failures, testing was finally completed and HSB-1 was Core-Casted from the research lab aboard TERRA Prime to Valefor's lab aboard the Felstorm. Almost a dozen failed test run Holo-Shards sat by the wayside, but each one had taught them how not to do it. The next few days would be spent Core-Casting back and forth between the two Labs, whilst also increasing the distance over which the transfer was completed. More Gen 1 Holo-Shards would soon be able to be created and deployed out in an initial small group around the Forge Worlds. But once TERRA Prime was finished construction, and the Cradle Facilities were constructed and deployed out, expansion of the program could begin. They could then begin looking at 2nd Generation Holo-Shards with organic bodies instead of HRDs. It seemed an odd choice, but there were absolutely situations in which an organic form was preferable for use, even if an HRD was capable of fooling most scanners.
The truth of the matter was that Valefor wanted to test organic forms in the Beta-Variants in advanced of what the next generation of Holo-Shards would be. If all went well, organic bodies would be needed to create Holo-Shards capable of inhabiting a body and using the Force. If he could achieve that... Then so much of this time and effort would be all worth it. Project: Prowler had certainly found a way to re-animate and return life to those that had died, but it was a long way off from what the Demon Lord of Hypori hoped to ultimately achieve. But it had not been a complete loss, with the Prowlers and the Berserkers serving as good warriors. Right now the Holo-Shard program was proving the most definitive lead and he was going to pursue it to the end
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Valefor
The Sith Eternal
Posts: 284
Affiliation: Sith Eternal
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Post by Valefor on Apr 7, 2024 20:28:10 GMT -8
INTERLUDE - TERRA Prime - Excarga System
Contrary Aperture continued to oversee the ongoing construction of TERRA Prime, even with the Forge Master having taken his leave to return to Hypori to check in on progress of the Dark Library. Data gathered from the testing was used to inform upgrade decisions for TERRA Prime itself but which would also be fed into the system to affect the design of the Cradle Facilities. Construction and production facilities were taking shape within the upper pyramid structure of TERRA Prime, with hull plating slowly being added on as each section was completed.
Meanwhile, deep within the heavily protected computer core of the station, the AI after which this station and project had been named was growing and evolving. To ensure the most proficient operation and the longevity of the project, Valefor had devised an AI named TERRA. It is he whom would have control over the production of Cradle Facilities and to whom the responsibility would fall to replace and rebuild damaged or missing equipment. thousands, if not millions, of designs could be worked through in minutes, making use of the materials provided to TERRA. If supply of a certain material was not possible, then a suitable substitute would be found, otherwise rapid design iteration would be undergone to see if a different process was possible
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Valefor
The Sith Eternal
Posts: 284
Affiliation: Sith Eternal
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Post by Valefor on May 22, 2024 18:58:54 GMT -8
 INTERLUDE - TERRA Prime - Excarga System
For now, TERRA was busy working away on the final adjustments to the Cradle Facilities designs before he could begin production and deployment of the Holo-Shard Cradle Network |
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Post by ππͺπ·πΓ¦πΆπΈπ·π²πΎπΆ on Jun 11, 2024 17:09:23 GMT -8
PRIVATE RP
*** Aboard the TΓ»aradi β Halfway to Roon ***
Surprisingly, the first day of hyperspace travel had gone incredibly smoothly. After taking off, the families of Abyssos settled, and soon after, life continued as usual. Or as normal as they could have been in this new environment. Still, the patter of little feet against metal resounded as the children darted from one side of the ship to the next. The occasional rustling of paper told the tales of cultists of all ages glancing through their tomes and scrolls. Conversations of varying topics murmured among the older scholars. Pandæmonium never realized their resilience before. Their whole lives picked up, and they acted like nothing had happened. Her duties to the Council blinded her for years, she realized.
Even her men quickly adjusted to this new but temporary normal with grace beyond their years. Lord Hemlock, the Chirurgeon's newest yet most skilled acolyte, had requested her permanent presence within the medbay. Despite the relief that washed over her, she has trained her features to appear coldly diligent in her duties. To others on the outside, it could be seen as the true duty of the High Guard to remain by the High Elder's side. To the acolytes of the Chirurgeon, it was seen as a treatment in its own right; there was no mistaking that Tartarus's vitals remained stronger with her presence nearby. However, Pandæmonium still considered the impact on her men. She marveled at how even Sirrok kept to his shifts with the utmost diligence. Kalishir was another story regarding his readiness, but he still reported to his posts without fail.
The second day of hyperspace travel had carried on the same way. Any unwanted incidents were kept to a minimum. Even the Virtuosos kept quietly to themselves, although Pandemonium now worried over what they were scheming. They were too quiet for comfort. A worry for another day.
Pandemonium kept herself dutifully by Tartarus's side within the medbay. She even slept sitting on the cold, hard floor, propped against his bed. She had hoped that the discomfort would keep the nightmares at bay. Remaining this close to Tartarus, though, those horrid dreams played like vivid reality. At least she was now prepared to fight back against that demon, armored in violent light. She had promised Tartarus that she wouldn't let him win. She meant every word. She refused to give Hyperion that power again.
On the third day, she awoke with a start and found herself covered in furs and supported against a few handwoven pillows. When she asked, Melynn β the youngest of the Chirurgeon's disciples β explained that a few children took notice and begged their parents to present something to the Voice of the High Elder. And the parents took great pride in offering up those small tokens on behalf of their children.
It was puzzling, and even that was putting it lightly. Only days ago, Pandemonium risked her life; she was forced to. It was an expectation set without thanks or gratitude. Yet, within a moment, everything shifted. Gratitude poured out towards her in every sort of unexpected way. And it wasn't just her. She occasionally noticed Kal wandering with some odd dried food smuggled from the village, obviously offered by one of the scholars. When Sirrok was making his rounds, he would be stopped by others his age, who marveled at how grown he was being treated by the adults, children who had been too afraid to speak to him or associate with him until now. Although it warmed her heart, the sudden change in the scholar's demeanor gave her whiplash.
With aching joints and stiff muscles, Pandemonium stood to her feet and stretched. They were only now entering the second half of their journey. She needed to do something more than just sit here and do nothing but offer her presence. She remembered the Chirurgeon's requests to the Archivist, those texts on Hyperion that were demanded to be included. If she were to remain here, the least she could do was start researching those texts. Perhaps something in their works revealed a way to wake up Tartarus.
Hemlock was against the very act of her leaving the medbay, but he was alone with his opinion. With the Chirurgeon's blessing to take a short break, Pandemonium took a brief reprieve and stalked towards the cargo hold. She could feel the eyes on her as she weaved through the crowd. No one spoke to her or tried to stop her, at least. Perhaps they realized where she was going and understood her goal, too.
The cargo hold had been converted into a massive, although haphazard, library of sorts. Towers of books climbed to the ceiling, each tower arranged in a manner that spoke of some categorization. A handful of individuals conversed with the acolytes, who then scurried off to find the requested texts. Even on such a life-changing journey, these scholars studied and consumed books as if they were like the water they needed to live.
Pandemonium didn't want to disturb those already working hard on their duties. So, with her heart hammering in her chest from anticipation, she stood off to the side and silently waited. |
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πΏπππππππ
The Sith Eternal
"You want weapons? Books are the best weapon in the world. Arm yourself!"
Posts: 74
Affiliation: Cult of Abyssos
Traffic Light: Green
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Post by πΏπππππππ on Jun 11, 2024 17:13:02 GMT -8
PRIVATE RP
Although the Archivist's disciples were hard at work, the presence of the Guardian drew all eyes toward her in the utmost haste. Despite the immediate attention the Echani received, none approached her initially, as if there had been some discussion or instruction to do otherwise. A few disciples scampered off quickly. Not long after, the Archivist appeared behind a mountain of texts containing several bestiaries and encyclopedias.
"Ah, the Voice of the High Elder doth grace us with her presence most divine," the Archivist proclaimed with feigned delight. As if she knew exactly what brought Pandemonium to this makeshift library. "Pray tell, to what doth we oweth this absolutely anticipated pleasure?"
Her shadows swirled at her feet mockingly, tendrils reaching out with purpose to brush against Pandemonium's ankles with their frigid fingers. |
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Post by ππͺπ·πΓ¦πΆπΈπ·π²πΎπΆ on Jun 11, 2024 17:15:00 GMT -8
PRIVATE RP
Pandæmonium kept her feet firmly on the ground and tried suppressing the urge to stomp at the freezing black vines. It wouldn't have done any good anyway. They were as incorporeal as the shadows they imitated. The Echani's expression showed as much as a wince at first, which then turned into a glare in the Archivist's direction.
"Judging by your not-so-warm welcome, you know why I'm here."
So the Matriarch wasn't happy about her presence. Pandæmonium briefly reflected on their conversation back at the Sanctum. The Archivist personally deemed the texts she had come here for as forbidden knowledge. However, there was a pressing circumstance, and despite her feelings on the tomes, others would now need access. She had to have known.
"...but if you need me to say as much out loud, I came for any text you might have readily accessible about Hyperion." |
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πΏπππππππ
The Sith Eternal
"You want weapons? Books are the best weapon in the world. Arm yourself!"
Posts: 74
Affiliation: Cult of Abyssos
Traffic Light: Green
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Post by πΏπππππππ on Jun 11, 2024 17:17:08 GMT -8
PRIVATE RP
The Archivist couldn't hide the laugh that pressed its way forward. Even her shadows' tendrils swirled about her feet with animated delight.
"Ah, tis a day of great delight when thou dost realize the power of using thine words, Guardian."
The Archivist pressed her way forward, closing the gap between them. The older woman towered over the more petite Echani. With how close she now stood, the veil of her shadows that masked her features dissipated just enough to reveal the slightest knowing smile. Despite her unspoken understanding, the Archivist still cocked her head questioningly.
"And dost thou maketh thine request on behalf of thineself or on behalf of the Chirurgeon?" |
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Post by ππͺπ·πΓ¦πΆπΈπ·π²πΎπΆ on Jun 11, 2024 17:18:54 GMT -8
PRIVATE RP
The Archist's presence forced a wince from PandΓ¦monium. While she knew this woman was harmlessβat least at this momentβher shadows cast a freezing mist that enveloped her while she stood that close. There was also that question that, for all intents and purposes, was nothing more than a formality. PandΓ¦monium could already tell. This was going to be an uphill battle.
"I'm requesting for myself," she stated, summoning up every ounce of firmness and confidence she could muster. "I have spent the past two days at Lord Tartarus's side. I have accomplished nothing to bring him out of his terrible reality. All the Chirurgeon or anyone in her domain wants from me is to just... be there. For moral support or something."
Pandæmonium sighed, agitated yet defeated. Again, she found herself chained to the wishes of those in leadership, and her fate rested in the palm of their hands. She didn't know why she thought it would be any different now that the Council was destroyed. And even as the Voice of the High Elder, as everyone wanted to call her, she still seemed to carry minimal sway.
"The least I can do in the meantime is research everything I can before we land on Roon. So why does it matter whether I'm requesting it or the Chirurgeon?" |
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πΏπππππππ
The Sith Eternal
"You want weapons? Books are the best weapon in the world. Arm yourself!"
Posts: 74
Affiliation: Cult of Abyssos
Traffic Light: Green
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Post by πΏπππππππ on Jun 11, 2024 17:24:48 GMT -8
PRIVATE RP
The Archivist quickly realized how on edge the Guardian was. Her playful questions were met with feigned power and confidence fitting for a monarch. She hadn't meant to cause such a strong reaction in the other; this was a first in her lifetime that the Archivist held any power like this over another of outstanding rank outside her domain. As the reality of the power imbalance dawned on her, the Archivist ceased the pointless questions and cut straight to the chase.
"It matters greatly who hath requesteth these texts. As thou art already made familiar, they art forbidden. After the young lord's failed rite, they art under the strictest surveillance. Only one of the Matriarchy might retrieveth them now or grant permission to another on their behalf. So if the Chirurgeon hath not sent thee, I must deny thy demands."
Before Pandæmonium could protest, the Archivist reached out a four-fingered hand towards a nearby stack. In answer, a different book, wrapped in colorfully dyed leather and decorated in swirling silver filigree, floated towards the Archivist and delicately rested within her clawed grasp.
"If thy wish be'est to pass the time, Lady Myra's works art phenomenal. Worthy appraisals hath reached mine ears from several women and even a handful of men to her latest storytelling." |
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Post by ππͺπ·πΓ¦πΆπΈπ·π²πΎπΆ on Jun 11, 2024 17:28:24 GMT -8
PRIVATE RP
Pandæmonium blushed, knowing precisely what genre Lady Myra wrote. She was a scholar who found her talents in elemental magicks. In her free time, she often wrote fantastical stories between two (or more) individuals using similar arts on each other for more... pleasurable and imaginative uses. Her books hardly contained any relevant plot, yet her newest works were still excitedly passed around the village like wildfire.
"Lady Myra's books are... hardly helpful to me. At all."
She shook her head and tried to regain her footing on the argument. Despite her firm and attempted confidence, Pandæmonium couldn't hide the heat that turned her pale skin ten shades of red. The fact the Archivist, of all people, suggested a book like this to her was uncomfortable to the highest degree.
"I am the Voice of the High Elder. Does that not put me in a ranking at least equal to the Matriarchy? It seems unfair that I'm placed to make decisions for all of Abyssos on behalf of Lord Tartarus. Yet, I don't receive any benefits myself from carrying out this role?" |
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πΏπππππππ
The Sith Eternal
"You want weapons? Books are the best weapon in the world. Arm yourself!"
Posts: 74
Affiliation: Cult of Abyssos
Traffic Light: Green
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Post by πΏπππππππ on Jun 11, 2024 17:31:07 GMT -8
PRIVATE RP
Again, the Archivist was painfully reminded of that power imbalance. While the Guardian's point harbored some truthful elements, an apparent misconception was born somewhere, sometime.
"Aye, so as the Voice of the High Elder, thine responsibilities must be'est as focused and persistent as crashing waves among the firmest rock. Should'st I allow thee to distract thineself with these vile texts before we have even met our newest masters, then Abyssos shalt suffer for thine actions diverted. I would'st carry boundless blame for allowing it."
The Archivist allowed the heaviness to weigh in her voice. She would not hide that from the Guardian now. She was not a child needing shielding but a woman needing guidance. The Archivist spoke a silent prayer that she would understand and not blame her for barring her passage to this confidential knowledge.
"So again, I offer thee a more fitting and easy read to pass the time thou seeketh swift passage through."
Again, the Archivist extended an olive branch and the overtly decorated book to the Guardian. In hopes of lightening the mood, the taller woman tilted her head, and from behind the veil of shadows that covered her, the faintest flicker of a smile could be seen from underneath her hood. With her amusement, her shadowy tendrils danced around their feet.
"Why dost thou blush so? A man of Lord Tartarus's ingenuity and a woman of thine endurance? I am quite positive that Lady Myra's imaginations hath nothing on thine personal exploits." |
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Post by ππͺπ·πΓ¦πΆπΈπ·π²πΎπΆ on Jun 11, 2024 17:35:31 GMT -8
PRIVATE RP
Exploits. Of course, the Archivist could just mildly and so elegantly throw that out there. If her heart could stop beating now, it would be a mercy.
Pandemonium snatched up the book and tore her gaze away from the Archivist. Her face heated hotter than the suns, and it felt like her ears were on fire. The Archivist's icy shadows be damned. What she wouldn't do to find an icebox somewhere to stick her face in. She thought she had a chance to get somewhere with the Archivist. This conversation proved entirely pointless.
"Thank you for the recommendation, Archivist."
Pandæmonium didn't hide the snap in her tone or her disappointment. The way everyone spoke made it seem as if it was a sure thing that Lord Tartarus would be drawn out of his slumber. She tasted only a fraction of his current reality every night she dreamed next to him. One could fight against a foe like Hyperion for only so long. If they didn't act soon, they would lose him. Yet they all worked as though he had all the time in the world, that Hyperion wouldn't eventually get what he craved. The hell that would be ravaged if it ever came to pass...
"Let us hope for everyone's sake that Lord Tartarus remains strong enough until you are ready to act."
She mumbled under her breath and stalked back out of the cargo hold. Although not empty-handed, it was far from what Pandæmonium hoped to achieve. She wouldn't get anywhere with the Archivist today, though, and she didn't feel like hanging around for another dozen recommendations of Lady Myra's books... or any other jests about her private life. |
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πΏπππππππ
The Sith Eternal
"You want weapons? Books are the best weapon in the world. Arm yourself!"
Posts: 74
Affiliation: Cult of Abyssos
Traffic Light: Green
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Post by πΏπππππππ on Jun 11, 2024 17:39:45 GMT -8
PRIVATE RP
The Guardian's words pierced through the Archivist's shadows and struck true to her heart. They all knew that time was of the essence; Pandæmonium wasn't the only one fighting this battle. Even if the Matriarch wouldn't reveal as much, she had hoped it was apparent before this journey began. Her shadows slunk low to the ground, no longer lively tendrils but clouds of fog that weighed heavily around her feet.
"Thou needst more faith in us, Guardian," the Archivist murmured as the Echani stormed out of the cargo hold. She was too far now to hear her, yet she spoke for her own sake for the coming days. "He shall be returned to thee soon enough."
As if on cue, a gangly Cerean male dressed in simple robes wandered out from behind a stack of books. He carried an open tome in one arm, and in the other, he masterfully lugged around another two books. If that wasn't impressive enough, he also secured another few scrolls between his arm and body. He might have left them behind on his makeshift workstation if they were any other texts. However, he was under the strictest orders not to let any of this knowledge out of his sight.
"Archivist, I need your opinion on this passage on the Sin Eater. It might prove to be important."
The Archivist took a beat, inhaling and exhaling, and her shadows appeared to swell and release with her breath. She then nodded to her acolyte, and the two disappeared once more into a more private corner of the cargo hold, away from prying eyes and sharp ears. |
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Karnac
The Sith Eternal
Posts: 208
Traffic Light: Green
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Post by Karnac on Jun 12, 2024 8:46:50 GMT -8
The trip back to Roon was certainly a tense one, depending on how one looked at it. Everything had gone smoothly up to now with little to no issues. The people of Abyssos were definitely a hardly lot and more than up for the challenge of being whisked away to a new world, even on a small ship. But they had begun day four and slowly, the aura of ship was shifting. The Zabrak could hardly blame them. Being confined and cramped for this long wasn't easy. Any frustrations anyone had couldn't be simply walked off or even vented without causing a stir. The refreshers were limited in number and occasionally a line would form. No one enjoyed the feeling of holding one's bladder until it was ready to burst. And finally, the air was growing stale. He was surprised the scrubbers had lasted as long as they did before being unable to keep up. Luckily, though, before day's end, they'd be on Roon.
Stretching out his arms, he and his team were certainly ready to get off the ship. While they had made occasional rounds, they mostly remained within the cockpit. But they only had a bit more to go. It was here that a thought occurred to the zabrak. He wondered how many had been born and raised within Abyssos and those that had come to Haruun Kal. He expected, even with stories and books, grasping the larger galaxy would be a bit difficult. While some might not have cared, he guessed and hoped some might find interest in his little idea. If anything, it might give them all just a bit more to focus on for this last bit.
Opening a channel throughout the ship, Karnac addressed everyone. Attention all. I must commend each of you for your resilience and strength. Being locked in such a small space for days on end is not something many can endure. However, soon our destination shall be in sight. But for now, for any who are curious, I will be opening a holo display in the main chamber. I would like to show those who have yet to travel the stars as well those who have the larger galaxy, the world you came from and where we are going, along with a few other things upon request. Standing to his feet, he gave his crew a nod before leaving the cockpit and heading into the main chamber. Moving through the group, he stopped in front of the large terminal in the middle of the room and waited until all who desired to see arrived. |
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πΏπππππππ
The Sith Eternal
"You want weapons? Books are the best weapon in the world. Arm yourself!"
Posts: 74
Affiliation: Cult of Abyssos
Traffic Light: Green
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Post by πΏπππππππ on Jun 16, 2024 6:25:45 GMT -8
CLOSED RP
The journey had been fine for Lady Chroma. She mostly kept herself cooped up in the makeshift library, but that was her everyday life. Mother always required her help, not necessarily because she needed it, but because she wanted Lady Chroma to understand the task. It would become her task one day, and she would need to ensure her daughter understood the same thing. Lady Chroma didn't like those reminders. She happily helped out just because. The archives were her home, and her mother and acolytes were her family.
When she wasn't requested for a chore, Lady Chroma was bundled up with some new book in her hands. It was probably the fourth or fifth time she had read any of these texts presented to her. The idea that the Eternal might have new books for her, new things for her to learn. That was the most challenging part of this whole journey. It made each second feel like an entire minute. A minute, like a whole hour.
Communication throughout the ship barely hummed out when Lady Chroma bolted to her feet and shouted for her mother, asking if she could go. She was already out of the cargo hold when she heard her mother's blessing to go. There were so many people to dance around, but all she could see was the big table and the tall Zabrak man standing beside it. She beamed, realizing the Elder-Slayer was already there and waiting.
It took a moment longer to ensure she didn't disturb anybody too much, but finally, she reached Karnac. She didn't slow down in the slightest as she bolted right into him in a fierce hug β at least, as fierce as one could be given her size. She giggled as she looked up at Karnac excitedly and grinned at him with zero fear.
"Are you really going to show us the galaxy, Uncle Karnac?" |
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Post by ππͺπ·πΓ¦πΆπΈπ·π²πΎπΆ on Jun 16, 2024 6:27:42 GMT -8
CLOSED RP
True enough, the four-day trek from Haruun Kal to Roon had gone smoothly. Just barely.
The liveliness from days before died; weariness and anticipation replaced it. Many of the younger scholars already moaned and groaned audibly with each and every "new" idea their elders encouraged them to pursue to keep their minds busy. While the older sorcerers appeared to keep their heads level, their furrowed brows and frowns spoke of the truth they kept buried. Everyone was getting tired of being cooped up on the ship.
Crouched at his post outside, Sirrok watched over the medbay when a sudden voice resonated throughout the vessel. At first, he kept his expression trained like the soldier he was. When the voice mentioned a holo display, a childlike awe lit in his eyes. From his position just outside the medbay doors, he watched the man fittingly deemed the Elder-Slayer depart from the cockpit and head to the large circular table in the main lobby. He thanked the stars that the events granting Karnac's title did not bless him with the name Guard-Slayer or even Abyssos-Slayer. The boy still held a healthy amount of fear and reverence regarding the imposing zabrak of crimson and black, though.
Sirrok watched nervously as Lady Chroma, heir of the Archivist, came rushing from the cargo hold. She danced around everybody with ease and a touch of childlike bumbling. Her laughter filled the lobby area and brought all eyes to her. Her simple pale robes fluttered behind her, along with her wisps of long, white hair. Matched with those Arkanian eyes, she looked like a ghost from a distance β a delighted ghost who had perhaps snatched up every last bit of excitement on the ship to keep for herself.
Sirrok shook his head, realizing he needed to pay attention to those gathered in the lobby area, especially those immediately surrounding the medbay. After four days, though, it was clear that no one intended to disturb the Chirurgeon and her domain while they worked. The first few days were taxing, with many individuals wanting to see if a personal spell or family magicks passed down through generations might be the trick to waking Lord Tartarus. Most were passed away by the Chirurgeon. One in five, Sirrok guessed, were allowed to come inside and speak directly with her. Regardless, these last twenty-four hours were dull, and no one approached him in the previous three hours of this shift.
But he may have a new mission on his hands. With the Elder-Slayer posed at the holo display, Lady Chroma found her way forward quickly and without a care in the galaxy. Sirrok bolted to his feet and reached for his weapon (thankfully leaving it disengaged). Sirrok watched in horror as Lady Chroma threw herself against Karnac and hugged him tightly. He could see her beaming smile from here. She looked up at the Elder-Slayer and seemed to say something to him, greeting him, something Sirrok couldn't make out from here.
The youthful zabrak and youngest of the Guard waited, hearts hammering in his ears, for the Elder-Slayer's move. |
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Karnac
The Sith Eternal
Posts: 208
Traffic Light: Green
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Post by Karnac on Jun 18, 2024 9:29:28 GMT -8
Karnac watched as Chroma made her way to him in a swift fashion. He carried little doubt that she would want to watch. From the small bit of interact they had within the archives, she presented herself as more than a little inquisitive. Running up to him, the young girl went straight in for a tight hug. With his height, the most she could get was his leg, the action enough to make him smile as he rubbed her head. "Indeed, I am. Along with a few other things to think about for this last bit of the trip."
At first, the zabrak didn't even notice Sirrok among the crowds of people, though he could find him easily enough if he chose to seek him out. His quick movement to his feet wasn't enough to distinguish him as others rose, especially at the Archivist's heir's arrival. Yet, as the Sith began to look at those who were looking to witness this display, he finally saw the young guard, saber hilt in hand, ready for use. His eyes met the boy for only a moment before continue their path to the others around him. His glance wasn't one of warning, or anything for that matter. Nothing more than a mere acknowledgement of his presence and the saber in his grip. He could understand the lingering desire to watch the outsiders and protect Abyssos, even upon his ship. All it would take is an unwanted action to have him make a move. One he hoped would never cross the boy's mind.
Once he saw all that had arrived with no others seeking to stand, he turned to the table and began pressing a few buttons. Suddenly, the display came to life, creating a large projection of the galaxy. "Our galaxy, home to thousands of worlds. Basic knowledge that even those who've never left Haruun Kal would be aware of." A couple more buttons as the galaxy turned to a top down view as multiple worlds became highlighted amongst the seas of stars. After a moment, another button lessened the view of the starry patches and traced out lines and paths that seemed to connect the majority of the dots. "Connecting them are the many hyperspace routes, paths programed into a ship's computer as primary and safe travel lanes when one goes to lightspeed. Even the furthest of worlds can be traverse within a few weeks times." |
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πΏπππππππ
The Sith Eternal
"You want weapons? Books are the best weapon in the world. Arm yourself!"
Posts: 74
Affiliation: Cult of Abyssos
Traffic Light: Green
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Post by πΏπππππππ on Jun 21, 2024 9:53:15 GMT -8
CLOSED RP
Still holding Karnac tightly, Lady Chroma beamed up at him with his confirmation. She nearly squealed with delight, and it took another beat before she released him to let him freely get to the holo display controls (although she was sure he would have made due just fine either way).
The young Arkanian shuffled back a couple of steps before plopping down in the 'front row' between two adults who, at first, seemed inconvenienced until they realized who it was who sat beside them. Lady Chroma didn't notice and, hugging her knees, eagerly leaned forward.
Truthfully, Abyssos had various maps and scrolls outlining the fundamental details of the galaxy. They lacked the finer details of the thousands of worlds; there was only so much space on a scroll. However, Haruun Kal hadn't been their first home, even if it was all anyone alive knew now. Lady Chroma had studied those maps and asked her mother so many questions about the galaxy. Still, the explanations revealed such foreign concepts. Now living her wildest dreams sparked awe and excitement.
Gasps emitted from the crowd as Karnac lit up the holo display. Lady Chroma even left her mouth agape as the projection shot into the air, casting an image onto seemingly nothing. She wasn't sure what she was expecting from that machine, but it wasn't that. She had heard of these things before, but to see them in action? Karnac could put the silliest of things up on it on repeat for the remainder of the trip, and she would remain enchanted the whole time.
However, a question buzzed in Lady Chroma's mind. It wasn't a question Karnac needed to answer, but she desperately wanted to see the solution light up on the holo display. She didn't just blurt it out, though. Instead, she shot her arm up into the air, hoping to nab Karnac's attention before he moved on from the hyperspace routes. |
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Post by ππͺπ·πΓ¦πΆπΈπ·π²πΎπΆ on Jun 21, 2024 9:58:29 GMT -8
CLOSED RP
Sirrok didn't back down or relax, not even after Karnac gently patted Lady Chroma's head. It wasn't the response he expected from the Elder-Slayer, not after the horrors Sirrok had witnessed in the council chambers. Still, Karnac hadn't given him any reason to leave his post. The adrenaline pumping through his veins kept his guard up, though.
His resolve, rooted in fear, only waivered when Karnac began his explanation of the galaxy and lit up the holo display. It had been years since Sirrok had seen one up close, and even the ones he had access to weren't as advanced. It was Sirrok's confirmation; they were leaving the jungles for a new world.
Childlike awe overwhelmed that fear, and Sirrok finally latched his saber back on his belt. For the time being, the Elder-Slayer posed no threat. However, seeing the larger Zabrak's movements and hearing his explanations still unnerved Sirrok. It was what he spoke of, though, that caught his attention. And a piece of him wished he could be in the front with Lady Chroma.
As if hearing his silent wishes, Pandæmonium exited the medbay but remained close. If she looked behind her, she was sure Hemlock was staring daggers into her to ensure she didn't wander off too far. The thought made her laugh wryly. Still, she hadn't intended to run off; she merely wanted to check in on her youngest Guard, especially with the Elder-Slayer making his presence known. Sirrok took that day's happenings the hardest, and understandably so. He was the one who witnessed the most that day, who carried so much on his shoulders. He had been entrusted to drag himself and Kalishir out of there after trying to face down Karnac, and in the process, watched another one of his brothers die trying to protect them.
"He's not so bad, you know," Pandæmonium uttered to Sirrok under her breath. By the Six Sisters, she couldn't believe she was actually vouching for Karnac. After everything, though, she couldn't let Sirrok live in misplaced fear. "I think any of us would have done the same thing if we were an outsider faced against the Council."
Sirrok exhaled a shuddered sigh. "I know, but I don't think we would have been successful. I don't think anybody else in the galaxy would have been. What he is..."
"...is just another Zabrak, like you, who's had years of training beyond what we can imagine."
Pandæmonium knew where Sirrok was going with his train of thought, so she fought to cut it off before he could utter the words. She knew where he was coming from. The Elders had used the same trick on outsiders who stumbled upon the village. They had witnessed squads of explorers and warriors alike fall victim to their magicks. Whatever happened with Karnac and his crew, though, it was a fluke. There was no other valid explanation, so she wouldn't bother seeking another.
Sirrok bit his bottom lip as he at least tried to accept her words. Whenever he looked at Karnac, all he could see was the impossible Karnac made possible, though. But now that they were on the same side, perhaps it wouldn't be as bad. Pandæmonium seemed to see those wheels turning in Sirrok's head, and she laughed while wrapping an arm around his shoulders.
"Go on," she encouraged. She could see the wonder lingering in Sirrok's eyes, the desire to be up front and see the galaxy lit up by the holo display. "That's an order." It really wasn't, not with her playful tone, but Sirrok was just about as duty-bound as Jaxon was half the time. "I'll take your post until the Elder-Slayer's finished with his presentation."
Pandæmonium patted Sirrok's back encouragingly, giving him just enough of a push to move forward through the crowd. Before he got too far, he turned to smile and nod at his High Guard.
Sirrok weaved through the people to make it next to Lady Chroma. The way the crowd shifted for him was another strange occurrence, but they all seemed... relieved that he had come to watch over Lady Chroma? Sirrok wasn't sure exactly, but it didn't matter. Not when he knelt down beside her, sitting on his feet. His saber was still latched to his belt, a reassurance.
It took a minute for him to finally look up at Karnac and hold his gaze. It would take longer before he could see Karnac without his twin hearts beating wildly, warning him of impending danger. But for now, he could at least pretend to be the child he was, until something happened and he couldn't anymore. |
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Karnac
The Sith Eternal
Posts: 208
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Post by Karnac on Jun 22, 2024 7:26:12 GMT -8
Karnac could only chuckle at Chroma and how the holoprojector caught her attention and filled here with such awe. To be a child once more and witness some much for the first time, it made the galaxy seem like an enchanted fantasy. IF only it could remain that way for them.
He had turned back for a moment after he finished speaking of the hyperspace routes, seeing Sirrok now moving to take his place among the others. His slight glance caught Pandæmonium now standing where the young zabrak had, the high guard no doubt encouraging him to come up and watch. Only a faint tilt of his head was what he gave her, a sign of acknowledgement and even thanks for helping those that still feared him or were at least edgy around him find a bit of peace in his presence. He looked down down at the boy with a smile before turning.
What he had witnessed, yes it had been seemingly impossible by what Abyssos knew. Hell, even for most, it was an impossibility. But Karnac had broken free of the dream, killed the majority of their elders and supporters with his team, and, in a way, had set everyone free and carried them all to a new home with a new and bright future. The zabrak would always feel the same, that it was merely the training he received that allowed him to do what he did. He felt that Abyssos had simply never faced an enemy that was truly trained from the youngest age without restraint or fear, that even any in the Sith could have done what he did. But there was that lingering truth. While not trained as heavily as Karnac, his team had received the same training under his tutelage, yet they couldn't break free. In the end, perhaps it was his power that allowed him to rise. But for all of that, he could be beaten, outsmarted, and put on the ground. His own peers could do so if the opportunity presented itself. That fact alone kept him from truly realizing and acknowledging the extent of his power.
His head had turned enough that he didn't see Chroma's hand shoot up as he moved forward with his presentation. The image then lowered itself to the southern section of the galaxy as a world lit up. "This is where you all resided, the world of Haruun Kal. It resides on the furthest reaches of the Mid-Rim." The map moved and spread out a bit more as another world grew brighter and a line traced itself between the two of them. "This is Roon,
tidally locked world that is still surprisingly temperate. The line connecting them is the hyperspace route we are travelling. The best class of hyperdrive is a class one, making it the fastest. A few other ships can go faster, but it is rare for them to do so. With this class the trip is four days long."
Turning back to the group, he saw Chroma's hand. "Yes, Chroma? Did you have a question?" |
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