Darth Malvus
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Post by Darth Malvus on Oct 11, 2020 18:47:21 GMT -8
In order to combat the natural nature of the Sith to compete with each other, the Hierarch oversaw the construction of an arena within the Fanged Acropolis. named after an ancient Sith'ari. Here, one may spar with another, a class could be held, or matches against other Sith or even creatures could be performed. Matches can be done for the sake of humiliating a rival, putting to place a foe, and ensuring the dominance of one over another without comprising the Conclave itself with feuds and rivalries. The Hierarch believes that the Arena will see some amazing matches between the potential and talented of his ranks.
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Darth Malvus
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Post by Darth Malvus on Oct 18, 2020 22:00:01 GMT -8
The Arena of Adas was still under construction even as Malvus arrived with Sirona, Vesperia, Durvax, and a guard of Sith warriors. The Heirarch raises his hand, signaling for his apprentice and his guard to remain at the entrance before he made his way towards the balcony, overlooking the future pit. This particular box was likely where he would watch the future trials and games that would strengthen his warriors and ensure a place where feuds could be decided and fought over. His gloved hand moves along the quarried stone, which had a reddish surface to it.
Much of the Acropolis is still under heavy construction. The tombs are not yet safe for meetings or even a stroll. This place will do for an audience.
Malvus states as he stops to gaze outward at the pit.
With my influence, as Jen'ari, I ensured that capable teachers were in the ranks of the academy you taught at. Among them, being you, Vesperia. The headmaster, however, was more under the influence of the Sith'ari. He could not be touched. His lack of concern towards you was likely born out of the desire to ignore your presence... if a rival doesn't exist, they can't be of harm, in his views likely.
The Sith turns away from the construction and the half-finished arena to turn to Vesperia. She was willing to defect, by the sounds of it. But by her words, she was not looking to simply serve as she did before. Vesperia wanted more than what she had before. However, it sounded like she wanted to learn everything. So the Heirarch would answer, allowing him to consider his options on what to do with the bold woman in the mean time.
What have I done, you ask? You wish to understand my plans that I kept from everyone... even Sirona here and my former apprentice Luxeria.
His eyes glance at Sirona then at Vesperia.
Simple. I desired greater power, a greater means to move and to project ones will. To be able to direct more directly. To be able to focus on what needs to be focused. The Dark Side called me to the Sith Worlds and showed me that this is where my plans can become rooted and thrive.
Malvus turns away once more, gripping the stone with his gloved hands. The Heirarch turned and, proudly, declared to her his words.
To bring us back to our roots to purify us! To strengthen us! To unify us! And to focus our power, our hatred, upon our ancient foe, the Jedi! To seek their total destruction by our blades and to ensure that the galaxy remains in perpetual darkness, Vesperia! I grew tired of rot and stagnation... I will be labeled as a betrayer in one history, but praised as a savior in another. As the sword that spearheaded this new movement!
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Post by Deleted on Oct 25, 2020 14:57:49 GMT -8
Just as Malvus had waved off his apprentice to stay at the entrance, Vesperia did the same with Duvrax. Again, she glanced over her shoulder at him, only this time issuing her wishes to only him through the Force.
Why don't you catch up with your little friend? Oh, and be a dear and find out the truth of her betrayal of her father for me.
The woman winked back at her apprentice. She only offered that little bit of encouragement towards him before approaching Malvus upon the balcony. No matter her instructions, though, Vesperia knew that Duvrax would do as he wished. She could only hope that he was just as curiously wary about the turn of events as she was. As Vesperia had so blatantly put it earlier, she planned to be on the winning side, and she wouldn't have a little rat ruin that for her.
Dismissing those concerns for now, though, Vesperia poised herself confidently as she looked out over the arena. The idea of great battles soon raging here, blood spilling like rivers, pain striking out in sheer abundance -- a dark smile found her lips. However, that expression was there and gone in the blink of an eye. The woman's gaze shifted, glancing over at Malvus out of the corner of her eye.
"Construction or no, I'm glad I could make you see the benefit of at least humoring me with one," the woman murmured, a low laugh rumbling in her throat before she continued. "Odd that you claim to find me capable and then leave in the dark for all of this, though. The headmaster's pathetic leadership abilities aside, I cannot simply forgive you so easily. Both of you are guilty of the same crimes against me. The only leverage is that you now have... is this."
Vesperia generally motioned towards the whole of the arena before crossing both arms over her chest. It wasn't just the arena that she meant, but the whole of everything he was building. If it wasn't obvious, though, she continued, speaking plainly.
"You had the nerve to cut yourself from the dead and decaying. You risked further war to build something new. Something stronger. I foresee this as being more potent than even the Sith'ari imagined. So imagine how it felt to be one of those left to deal with the dead. The decay. The rotting corpse that the Savage clan had left as their so-called Sith order. And I'm not the only one you left behind. I'm just the one who had the nerve to say 'kriff it' instead of waiting for a non-existent invitation."
Just as Vesperia had shown throughout all this time, her tones were like a podracer, out of control. From confident praise to growling hatred to animated disinterest, the woman's flawless shifts in passion revealed that she was either borderline insane or that she was in complete control as she fueled her emotions at their peak. It was anybody's guess.
"History is simply a matter of who is left to write it," Vesperia stated confidently with a smirk to match. Malvus's proud speech didn't fall on deaf ears, and it further encouraged the seed in her mind that she was to give him the first move to stealing her loyalty. "When the Blackguard Imperium creates their own demise, history will only see those who survived, who thrived, who rose to the challenge and seized their rightful place of power."
Vesperia turned, taking one step closer to Malvus. Her silvery blue eyes locked onto his.
"History will recognize those who remember our ancient foe and ensure they fall. I have never forgotten that. Since the Battle of Felucia, I have longed to find them, to snuff them out, one by one, and I have grown impatient by the Sith'ari's inaction."
But Vesperia was getting ahead of herself. The Hierarch's words lit a flame in her, something she forgot to keep hidden. It would only reveal how easily Malvus could claim her loyalty, and she was hoping for more of a show. There was more than one way to cover herself, though.
"But I suppose it doesn't matter that you and I have similar visions for the Sith," she cooed coyly, turning away from Malvus to, once more, look out over the arena. "You never needed nor wanted my help, nor any of those you left abandoned with the Imperium. You only took those who you wanted and left the rest of us to rot alongside the order. Am I wrong? Please... tell me I'm wrong."
Briefly, her eyes flickered back over to Malvus. False pleading in her tones was revealed by a smug smile that muted the begging in her eyes. Nonetheless, though, she wanted to hear it from him. If he was beginning to understand how likely she was to join him, she wasn't about to make this easy for him, not until she knew this would be the last time she was so easily overlooked.
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Darth Malvus
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Post by Darth Malvus on Oct 25, 2020 18:07:59 GMT -8
"But I suppose it doesn't matter that you and I have similar visions for the Sith," she cooed coyly, turning away from Malvus to, once more, look out over the arena. "You never needed nor wanted my help, nor any of those you left abandoned with the Imperium. You only took those who you wanted and left the rest of us to rot alongside the order. Am I wrong? Please... tell me I'm wrong." Malvus remains silent as Vesperia spoke. Yet he did not face her, the Sith instead gazed out at the construction of the Arena, a future place that would manifest one of the principle tenets preached by the Rule of Unity. It would serve as a place where those within his ranks could vent their rage and anger upon creatures, slave warriors, Orzi, and even spar between one another. The Sith had always a tendency to fall upon one another, risking the momentum of an order and the death of the skilled and capable by those of equal strength or grand ambitions. The Heirarch would try to see an end to it with the Arena being one of these options, besides their crusade against the Jedi.
The Sith remained silent, even after Vesperia spoke. Slowly, Malvus moved as his head turned to her direction.Your ambition is obvious, but I will humor you nonetheless. My plans required subtly and thus little in terms of participation from others.The Sith says plainly.Once my plans came to fruition, the door would open to all defectors and newcomers. People like you, Vesperia.There were plenty more besides her, men and women who had connections, directly, to Malvus and who had grown impatient, like him, with the inaction of the Sith'ari. How could they simply let the Jedi live? How could their nation become so bloated and rotten? He had remove himself or risk falling with the sinking ship.True, I did need certain persons to help my plans come to fruition... but when creating my future, my new order, I would need more. At the time, my plans required little. Now, my plans require more. More persons of various skills and abilities. Persons to train the future of our ranks, to lead our armies and fleets, to bring fear and dread to our foes. The ranks would grow and thus the requirement for more skilled leadership would be needed.Malvus keeps his gaze firmly upon Vesperia.I would have never sent an invitation. There was no need to. All I had to do was wait for you, like others, to awaken to the rot and decay that festered around you. To realize that the vision before was dead with the Imperium. And for you to choose to your next step.He saw the game here, the obvious words. There was a way to ensure Vesperia joined him, but it would require something greater than simply being an instructor. She had come here willingly and by curiosity... but also by ambition. Looking the female over, Malvus already had an idea of what to offer, but he would not give it simply to her.Your ambition is obvious.The Sith states, once more, as he returns his gaze to the Arena.You have abandoned one banner already, that is plain to see. And I know why you have come and spoken your words. The real question is: can you be relied upon? Can you bring results and loyalty to the Conclave? Or are you just hiding your inabilities with loud ambition?Malvus' gaze turns to Vesperia once more, waiting to see what she would say.
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Post by Deleted on Oct 26, 2020 1:08:11 GMT -8
As the quartet made their way to the arena, Duvrax allowed his mind to wander, thoughts slowly building in shape as the truth of his master’s intentions here became clear to him. She sought to join with him as he was the only one who continued to carry a stability within the ranks of the Sith. A new order for a new age. Yet, as the game of cat and mouse continued between the two, seeing who held the greater power in the end, he found himself growing a bit frustrated, his patience already wearing away as the masters continued on.
He was actually relieved when he was told to hang back at the entrance with Sirona. It would, indeed, allow him a few moments to speak with his former peer. As he thought of the conversation to come, a smirk formed upon his face as his kind reached out to hers.
I take it my master has gotten you a bit unnerved?
As he spoke, his senses spoke of a shift in his master. In some ways it was obvious, yet in others, it was subtle. The roller coaster of emotions flowing back to back so quickly and flawlessly, it made one wonder what was going on. It made him start to think that perhaps her own patience was beginning to fade and soon she would be far more direct with Malvus, calling him out for the truth that he seemed to dance around. The Zabrak could only hope that was the case.
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Darth Sirona
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Post by Darth Sirona on Oct 26, 2020 18:46:48 GMT -8
Sirona continued to follow close behind her master. She clutched the book tighter now. Her short white hair hung over her face, as her eyes watched the floor. A wave of relief washed over her as she was instructed to remain behind. Her grip loosened on the tome, and it reminded her that she was even holding it. Knowing that the conversation was not meant for herself, Sirona began to open the book, but then she felt the press of the mind of her former classmate. She glanced up at him, a small smile on her own face as she replied.
A mouse giving me a mean look would unnerve me. But your master is very good at it.
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Post by Deleted on Oct 26, 2020 21:41:02 GMT -8
Duvrax couldn’t help but give a faintly audible chuckle at Sirona’s response. Vesperia certainly had an aura about her that unnerved some and infuriated others. Only a select handful, he suspected, were truly capable of dealing with her on a comfortable level. No doubt others just did what they had to to tolerate her.
She certainly is an acquired taste, that’s for sure. I’m certain you were aware of the rumors regarding her as a teacher. I know some of us were, at least. His head then shift to gaze upon her, an eyebrow raising as he looked down at her. But there is a truth to what she said, isn’t there? After all, you wouldn’t have been as bother by her otherwise. So what’s the story? Why would the adopted daughter of the Sith’ari suddenly turn her back on him like this?
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Darth Sirona
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Post by Darth Sirona on Oct 27, 2020 22:14:09 GMT -8
The smile faded from her face as she looked at the book in her hands. This was it, wasn't it? The reason she had turned her back on her former life within the Blackguard, and with the Jedi for that matter. The temptation of knowledge. It burned in her like a fire that always needed fuel, the hunt for new and lost lore would never be satisfied. But everyone sought to make this so much more personal than it was. They saw her as practically a kin-slayer or at best oath-breaker. Something that she would need to get used to. After time to ponder the question from Duvrax and how to answer it, she decided to be honest with her former peer.
I seek knowledge, and this was the path that offered me the most. This had noting to do with me hating Viox or the Blackguard. This has everything to do with Lord Malvus preserving these worlds and me gaining unfettered access to the information here. But the Force has shown me my path, and for now it is not at the Sith'ari's side but at his. She looked back over to where Malvus and the new woman stood. Sirona silently hoped she wouldn't need to be around her much in the future.
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Post by Deleted on Oct 28, 2020 7:12:29 GMT -8
Duvrax listened as Sirona's words resonated within his mind. Though he didn't express it, curiosity took hold and an eagerness to dive further into the reasoning she gave. He might not have had the mind that Krokaa, Xar, or Zul did, but he was capable of catching underlying meanings as well as the ability to read between the lines. It was a trait that would most certainly be lost had he continued in his old power-hungry ways. Back then, it was about strength and power, nothing else. Funny to think just how much stronger he was able to become once he was shaken free of that mindset.
They say that knowledge is power and for a Sith, we must keep seeking greater power. But your words make things clear. You came to Malvus as you felt that you weren't achieving the knowledge and power you desired. Am I right? Yet, if you so quickly turned away from the Blackguard, there must have been something more to it. Otherwise, it imeans that your loyalty is to power and nothing else, so ready to abandon everyone on a whim if the tides turn against your wishes. Is that the truth or is there more you are holding back? The Zabrak's eyes continued to focus in upon the girl next to him, seeking to draw out every aspect of the truth. As he said, knowledge was power, and currently, the truth behind Sirona's betrayal of the Blackguard and the Sith'ari held great power in more ways than one. One that he would reveal in time.
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Darth Sirona
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Post by Darth Sirona on Nov 1, 2020 23:15:43 GMT -8
Sirona studied the cover of her book intently as Duvrax's words filled her mind. Her fingers fidgeted with the hardback cover, feeling the texter of the tome. Finally she glanced back over to Duvrax, it seemed he was learning well from his new master. But she then glanced to the pair of senior Sith further in and then back to the Zabrak and then nodded her head back toward the Masters. Perhaps I will share my deeper reasons if that goes well. Otherwise, until I am certain of where your own loyalties will lie, I will keep some secrets for myself. For now I think it would be enough for you to know that the Hierarch trusts me.
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Post by Deleted on Nov 1, 2020 23:53:28 GMT -8
Duvrax couldn’t help but chuckle at Sirona’s words. Holding things close to the belt so that nothing could be used against her. But with her secrets, so, too, would he keep close his intention behind his pressing. He could only imagine the reasons through the bits of exchange they had, the reality of where they all stood. He sought to find the hate and the anger that existed there. The girl had always shown herself to be meek, a trait that wasn’t found within a Sith. He had hoped to draw her out, find those emotions lying hidden away. Hatred and anger for Viox for holding her back and keeping her locked away on Mustafar, rage that her adopted father had allowed things to become so decadent in his ways that created the current divides, even fury towards Malvus for even the idea that she was as his master considered her: a trophy of what he took from the Sith’ari. Emotions that the Sith fueled themselves upon and gave them strength.
However, such an interaction would have to wait. But the thought wasn’t lost. She had provided a means to further that idea. And he would take hold of it. That will entirely depend if your master can stop dancing around the reality of the situation and accept his failure. Claiming to following this Rule of Unity, yet doesn’t reach out to those within the Blackguard still. Little does he realize what they truly know. He ran away with but a small handful of Sith like the heretics we sought to purge. Nothing else was made known of the conquests and building strength. Those that remain and grow tired of the situation between Viox and his son do not know of what could await them here. So many right for the picking and he will let them rot away or let them build their own feeble attempt at an order. Seems like his only concern is forming his little click of Sith that are strong. Quite the arrogance, of I do say so myself. Doesn’t seem to be much better than the Sith’ari.
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Post by Deleted on Nov 2, 2020 11:32:17 GMT -8
Subtlety: Vesperia sneered at Malvus' mention of the word. The way he was talking now, he was just the exact opposite of the Savage Clan. Although it was different, different wasn't always a good thing. With Malvus keeping his eyes locked onto the construction, Vesperia simply arched an eyebrow at him before turning to also stare out into the great expanse. Although he could remain quiet for a time, though, the woman didn't share those qualities.
"And now, you find yourself needing more, yes?" she questioned, almost mockingly. "You run off with your select few favorites, and now that you need more, you can't have it. You've buried yourself so much in secrecy that all the little pawns you need now don't even have a clue about your existence here. That's what happens when you turn your back on potential allies who would have gladly helped you build all of this."
Again and again, she wanted nothing more than to drill that point into Malvus's head -- how he left her behind, how he left everyone behind. Now that she was beginning to find out more and more about his expected plans, a malicious grin split itself across her lips. Although remaining throughout the arena's expanse, her eyes revealed a wicked plotting. A seed of a thought was now planted in her mind, one whose fruits she planned to take full advantage of.
"Can I be relied on?" she asked, feigning shock. Vesperia finally turned to Malvus, that wide-eyed expression dissolving to a narrowed, angry glare. "Can you? I could bring you everything you see missing in your new order and more. I could swear the same blind loyalty to you as I did to Viox. I could work my kriffing arse to prove my value, so long overlooked as it stands already. But as easily as I can defect from the Blackguard, I will always "defect" to seek out the strongest of the Sith. I refuse to be another pawn in the background of these political games. So... can you offer me more than a petty title and busy work as you did before? A place to fully view the grand scheme of this new and rising order? Or will you smother your order with subtlety and weakness, leaving nothing for me to build?"
She was quick to find the rules of the game and play them valiantly. Once said and done, though, Vesperia took in a deep, cleansing breath after she said her piece and ripped her gaze off of Malvus. Rocking her head from one side to the other, the woman seemed to further compose herself before clearing up one final issue.
"You're mistaken, by the way. I haven't abandoned anything. Not yet, at least. And I plan to return to the Academy once we conclude here. You need more people fleeing from the wreckage to seek out you and your order, the savior of their damnation. That's something I could easily pledge. But before I promise anything, make it worth my while, first, mkay?"
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Darth Malvus
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Post by Darth Malvus on Nov 2, 2020 17:11:12 GMT -8
Malvus simply looks at Vesperia, taking in her words and feigned emotions. There wasn't any hesitation of what to give her, an idea had been there the moment she made contact with his security. So the Sith turned to the side, facing the guards that had followed the four to this part of the Arena. His gloved hand raises and points in their direction, who stood behind the apprentices, Duvrax and Sirona.
Come forward and remove your helmets.
The Sith states as the guards move forward. Two on either side of the apprentices stood as their helmets were removed. Beneath were grey and reddish skinned humanoids. They had an unusual lower jaw that jutted outward some with sharp teeth that were slightly visible. No hair grew upon their heads, yet their skin looked rough and hardened from their services. There was a murmur from one, a moment in crude Sith that these creatures spoke.
Magnificent, aren't they?
The Heirarch presents the question to Vesperia as his gaze returns to her.
These are the future of the Conclave's troops, the Orzi. They are to be our 'Massassi', our warriors that will fight our wars and bloody the fields with the corpses of our enemies. Created by powerful Sith Magic, they are an immensely strong soldier, bred to fight. They have few champions and chiefs, the greatest being the first of their kind, Dûrzog.
The Sith then gestures upward, recalling that Vesperia might have seen some new starfighters and vessels that orbited Korriban. Military research had prototypes for some models to come, but the navy was already seeing the presence of the Isen-class bomber, the Saarai-class elite fighter, and the Talon-class starfighter. She surely had seen those objects moving in patrol fashion.
Perhaps you have seen newer technology above too. The Conclave is meant to advance where there was once stagnation. I have many talented practitioners of magic, minds of metal, and wielders of science. And yet, though they form a vital organ of this organization, they are without a Praetor, an Architect.
Malvus motions to his Orzi, who proceed to place the helmets back upon their heads and return to their posts. The Heirarch glances at Sirona, for a moment, then turns to Vesperia, before turning his gaze fully back to the Arena. A noise had caught his ear. Below, some Sith Beastmasters attempted to wrangle an Acklay, getting it under control from the container it was transported in. The creature snarled, screeched, and lunged as electro-staffs poked at its sides. Several ones were twirling metal cables with heavy balls on the end to entangle the creature. It was amusing to watch, for a moment.
Soon enough, his eyes returned to Vesperia.
How does joining the Praetor's Circle sound, Lady Vesperia, as my Architect of the Circle of Advancement? You will be among those who stand just beneath the Heirarch. Those who represent the four major organs of the Conclave and wield great authority and influence. By your hand, and with my approval, you will map the future of our technological advancement, both by science and dark magic.
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Post by Deleted on Nov 3, 2020 12:12:11 GMT -8
In a perfect world, Vesperia would have done one thing out of the infinite possibilities. As the Sith warriors stepped forward and removed their helmets, she would have stomped her way over to them and examined them. Closely. She would have stroked a firm hand over their rough gray skin, grabbed hold of their protruding chin, and thoroughly inspected the warriors' physical state. She would have taken the opportunity to make Malvus' new plaything-apprentice uncomfortable and briefly check in on her apprentice in the process.
As Malvus continued, though, she would have no need to move, and thus, Vesperia remained loyally within the Hierarch's presence. Instead, Vesperia cocked her head as she examined the warriors from afar with a calculative stare and a smug smile.
"Absolutely gorgeous."
She cooed her approval of the warriors, and only with Malvus's motion towards the sky, Vesperia snapped her gaze away and upwards, following his hands. An eyebrow quirked quizzically before she lowered her gaze back to him. He was leading up to something, either to prove her previous question wrong or something even more significant. Or both. Both would be an excellent turn of events.
And that's when he offered her a meager piece of what she sought. Praetor. Architect. She savored those words -- so much that the Acklay's screeches below were unable to shake her from her stupor. She so desperately wanted to hear more about that title dangled before her, not yet promised. He teased her so, then allowed himself to be distracted by the animal's torture below.
But finally, she received what she came here for. The words sent an electrifying shiver down Vesperia's spine.
"Advancement, hmm?" she hummed with a coy smile. "Seems rather fitting considering our little chat. I'm sure that's just a coincidence."
Vesperia breathed a laugh. The animalistic screams continued to echo from the arena, and after just another short moment to revel at this moment, she turned to watch the pathetic thing take a fall into the gritty sand with several of its claws tangled together by the metal wires. Its cries were only amplified as it was subjected to the electro-staff's cruelty. Vesperia's smile widened as she watched with sadistic intrigue in the creature's suffering.
"It sounds like a delightful time and a wise decision on your part... Hierarch," she stated, briefly glancing over at Malvus out of the corner of her eye before returning her attention to the amusement below. "You won't regret finally acknowledging the power I wield and can bring to your rising order. Science and dark magics... It'll be like returning to my roots."
The Cult of Entropy -- the small Sith faction had been sucked up by the Blackguard Reborn and where Vesperia's journey with the Academy began. A cult dealing in mind magics and scientific advancements, they were seen as a boon at the time of their pledge to the Blackguard. How much information Malvus had been privy to, or even cared to remember about the small factions once they were swallowed up into the whole of the Blackguard, was uncertain. No matter the case, though, it seemed more than fitting for Vesperia that she be offered a chance to take charge in these matters. It was as if the whispered fates, dark powers of the Force, had arranged this to be so.
"If you're offering, I accept. Tentatively. As I stated, I still have plans to return to the Academy, and that is non-negotiable. Don't you worry your pretty little head, though. I will return to my rightful throne here, and when I do, I'll be sure to bring some... friends along. I'll be sure to spread the word while I'm there, too. In due time, we'll have the stragglers crawling to our doorstep, begging for forgiveness."
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Darth Malvus
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Post by Darth Malvus on Nov 4, 2020 7:49:44 GMT -8
Malvus looks down at the arena as the Acklay was subdued by the beastmasters. Utilizing the Force could risk the creature's injury and they needed the beast in top shape for when the Arena was open and the challengers came forth. The Sith remains silent as he watches the beastmasters direct the somewhat subdued creature into the bunker below. Occasionally, the Acklay lashed out, but the creature could tell it was defeated, for now. With that, his attention was turned to Vesperia.
Do what you feel needs to be done, Lady Vesperia, but don't take too long.
With the last of his Praetors promoted, Malvus would need to call a meeting of the Circles to determine next actions and future plans of the Conclave. For a short time, his attention would be divided between plans and educating his apprentice. The Sith Lord taps his finger lightly on the stone railing where he stood.
In the mean time, Vesperia, I would like for you to get familiar with your department and subordinates. There are prototypes that awaiting approval and examination. Ships designs at Dromund Kalakar, machinery and droids at Thule. They have been working, despite the absence of a Praetor above them.
Malvus had already approved some of the new tech, while others were still in production and the planning stages. Hopefully, in time, the Conclave would have a slew of new technology that would be utilized in the fights to come. Though their mission was that of subvert and sabotage, striking from the darkness, and battling the Jedi, he had to be prepared for... other foes. This part of the galaxy had Imperials in Corporate Space, a resurgent Mandalorian nation, a few outposts of the Blackguard, and the Dominion of Mon Calamari. Their focus would be the Jedi, but others would certainly come knocking in due time.
Unless there are any questions, then you may depart and perform what you need to.
Malvus states as he turns back to the new empty Arena, save for workers here and there.
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Darth Sirona
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Post by Darth Sirona on Nov 6, 2020 13:26:08 GMT -8
Duvrax couldn’t help but chuckle at Sirona’s words. Holding things close to the belt so that nothing could be used against her. But with her secrets, so, too, would he keep close his intention behind his pressing. He could only imagine the reasons through the bits of exchange they had, the reality of where they all stood. He sought to find the hate and the anger that existed there. The girl had always shown herself to be meek, a trait that wasn’t found within a Sith. He had hoped to draw her out, find those emotions lying hidden away. Hatred and anger for Viox for holding her back and keeping her locked away on Mustafar, rage that her adopted father had allowed things to become so decadent in his ways that created the current divides, even fury towards Malvus for even the idea that she was as his master considered her: a trophy of what he took from the Sith’ari. Emotions that the Sith fueled themselves upon and gave them strength.
However, such an interaction would have to wait. But the thought wasn’t lost. She had provided a means to further that idea. And he would take hold of it. That will entirely depend if your master can stop dancing around the reality of the situation and accept his failure. Claiming to following this Rule of Unity, yet doesn’t reach out to those within the Blackguard still. Little does he realize what they truly know. He ran away with but a small handful of Sith like the heretics we sought to purge. Nothing else was made known of the conquests and building strength. Those that remain and grow tired of the situation between Viox and his son do not know of what could await them here. So many right for the picking and he will let them rot away or let them build their own feeble attempt at an order. Seems like his only concern is forming his little click of Sith that are strong. Quite the arrogance, of I do say so myself. Doesn’t seem to be much better than the Sith’ari. Sirona raised an eyebrow at the new line of questioning from her former fellow student. She wasn't quite sure what he sought to accomplish from this. He seemed to already have his opinions made up, but she would continue to humor him for now. Though she was growing frustrated and it was clear with her response. I do not presume to know the mind of my Master, though if I had to guess, Lady Vesperia was of such little concern to him that she was overlooked. And arrogance is a near cliché weak spot for our kind, as evidenced by this line of questioning. And how he leads as opposed to the Savage family has yet to be tested, so I would suggest not getting too attached to your hypothesis.
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Post by Deleted on Nov 8, 2020 13:35:15 GMT -8
It was a bittersweet thing to witness the Acklay's defeat. It was inevitable, yet Vesperia watched with an oxymoronic meld of disgusted amusement as the fire died from its thrashing movements and its terrorized screeches to diminished to defeated chirps. Her eyes remained trained on the creature, even as Malvus offered his blessing to her plans. After a brief pause, the woman then licked her lips and pushed herself back with a step. Her silvery blue eyes locked on the Hierarch then, and the flash of a wink signaled her approval.
"Prototypes. Ships. Machinery. Dromund Kalakar. Thule."
Vesperia reiterated those key points to Malvus as if repeating off a grocery list.
"Got it, darling. I'll be back soon. Don't miss me too much while I'm away."
If he wanted, Malvus could meet her boldness with any sort of verbal discipline, and it wouldn't have mattered. Unless it was some sense of physical restraint, the lady already turned on a heel and headed to gather up her apprentice so that they could keep this return trip short. With her new title among the Resurgence, Vesperia was eager to get to work. Glancing over at the two, though, Vesperia could sense an odd tension between the two. It didn't take a scholar or a scientist to deduce that much. She arched an eyebrow at Duvrax briefly before dismissing any questions to wait until they arrived at the ship. Instead, Vesperia turned an eye to Sirona as another twitch of a wicked smile found her lips.
"Oh, don't you worry your pretty little head, little Nidana Savage," the woman sang with a faint, feigned pout. "Your Hierarch made a wise decision today by naming me as his newest Praetor, so I assure you, Duvrax will be with me upon my return. You can play with him again then. Toodles!"
Vesperia lifted a hand, her fingers dancing with a playful farewell. Her light-heartedness, covering up her clear contempt, was there and gone in the blink of an eye, though. Vesperia glanced over at Duvrax and silently signaled to him with a tilt of her head. They were leaving -- for now -- and Vesperia strutted back to her ship, knowing Durvrax wouldn't be too far behind. With this meeting going far better than she had planned, as promised, Vesperia wouldn't be away for long. She had a mission set in motion now. With her every movement, she would ensure that power and glory were brought to this new order. She would find the winning side and play the pieces to assure them victory over the heretics, over their enemies, over any who dared cross her.
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Post by Deleted on Nov 8, 2020 13:47:57 GMT -8
Duvrax raised an eyebrow as he continued to watch the meeting, Sirona's interpretation of his master lack of involvement further raising points he could use. I see. If that's the case regarding my master, then what does that make you? So timid and weak, it's a wonder you made it this far. The oldest of us within Master Phoenix's class and, yet, you were the one furthest behind. You even got special lessons right from the start and you still were behind the rest of us, despite all that we learned. A waste of his time. Make no mistake, you are smart and seek knowledge from the ages, but you cower so much behind those dusty tomes that you have done little to actually learn how to utilize that knowledge. If you can't use it, it is worthless. And if, as you say, can be unnerved by something as simple as a mouse, then what chance do you hold against the beasts that roam this world, a place where only the strong survive.
It was then that an interesting thought popped within his mind. Perhaps that is why you truly left the Sith'ari's side. It wasn't because you left to find greater knowledge but because he saw you as worthless and tossed you to the side like an old rag doll. Perhaps you are nothing more than a simple pet to your "master." For a man seemingly seeking a small group of strong Sith, you certainly don't fit the bill.
A smirk began to form at his face as he took in her tones and he faint frustration. It all worked to prove the point he was trying to get at in the first place, something he was hoping to get the girl to realize. I know there is a strong line between control over one's emotions and passiveness and you, my dear, are so passive. Much like Jedi. Perhaps you should go join their ilk. Sith are creatures of power you seek to craft fear into our enemies and feed of the emotions of them and ourselves. No matter what philosophy we follow, that will always be the constant. One who can't use these things are not fit to be called Sith.
It was then his master walked up to them, her business concluded with Malvus. Her words, he figured would further unnerve Sirona, something that made his smirk widen as Vesperia departed and she turned to face his former peer. A moment of silence passed before he turned to leave, but not without a final word, one that he spoke audibly. "Don't disappoint the Hierarch too much with your inabilities. Would hate to see that pretty face cast out with nowhere to go." Between his reputation with some of the women on Iridonia and his master's influence, the pretty face comment was something that seemed a bit odd for the conversation, yet flowed as if saying it was natural to him as he moved to fall into step behind his master.
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Darth Sirona
The Sith Eternal
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Post by Darth Sirona on Nov 16, 2020 0:55:29 GMT -8
Sirona's eyes cast down as she closed off her mind from further communication from her former peer. She was relieved that he and his master were leaving. Their was barely even an acknowledgement of Vesperia's comments. Almost everything Duvrax had said was true. She had been older than the other students, but furthest behind. Her grip on the book had her knuckles even whiter than usual. The young woman waited for her Master to dismiss her, at which point she would go back to the archives to try and drown out Duvrax's words in work, but his taunts still rang out in her head, even as she would drift off to sleep that night.
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Post by Elarinya on Aug 3, 2021 2:25:21 GMT -8
Ela saddled herself in place. All lights had been extinguished within the cargo bay of the Duath as the frontal air lock disengaged and opened up. The light from outside streamed in, causing Ymir to grunt and growl as she sensed her time to enter into combat drawing near. Ela gripped the reins as the holographic HUD powered up on her new MESA Combat Armor. The air lock doors finished extending open as Ela gave Ymir a kick, causing the female Uvak to scramble forward through the cargo bay and launch out into the air above the Arena of Adas.
A small force of "gladiators" had been assembled below and armed with weapons. They had been offered freedom, should they manage to defeat Elarinya. She did not intend to let that happen.
The HUD started picking up the life forms below as Ela guided Ymir into a speedy descent. The MESA suit helped streamline her body against Ymir's back, while providing protection against the blaster bolts that were being fired into the air. Ymir's armour had been alchemically altered, providing the Uvak a measure of protection against such small weapons fire. Something the "gladiators" below quickly worked out as they scattered from their positions.
Ela unholstered the pair of light repeating blaster pistols strapped to her thighs. Her pair of lightsabers were within reach but these prisoners were hardly worth the kiss of her lightsabers.
As the ground came rushing up closer and closer, Ela pushed off from the back of Ymir. The Uvak pulled up and flapped her wings, slowing her descent before landing on the ground. Her maw dropping open as a stream of blue flame spewed forth in the direction of several "gladiators", melting the stone column and setting a couple of them ablaze. Ela seemed to float through the air for a moment, before landing upright, her blaster pistols rapidly firing at two separate groups. Several "gladiators" almost immediately fell, having been shot in the back as they tried to escape. The remaining prisoners tried to rally together, thinking they had superior numbers on their side.
Another stream of blue flame and the rapid fire of Ela's pistols quickly proved the folly of such a thought. The last of the prisoners were still burning to death as Ela shifted her attention up into the stands to an observation platform. Her HUD focused on the platform and enhanced the image. Maethoriel merely gave an assenting nod of her head before standing up and leaving. The Warmaster of the Conclave had grown more and more distant of late, seemingly occupied by the position she held.
Soon Ela would surpass her, and then Maethoriel would not be able to so simply and easily ignore her....
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