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Post by Deleted on Feb 16, 2021 14:47:48 GMT -8
For all intents and purposes, Vesperia oozed the falsity of an ideal Praetor. Silent. Poised. Seemingly interested in Malvus' every word he uttered. Her malicious, playful smile was nowhere to be seen, her face now painted in what could only be described as absolute eerie apathy. Even after being addressed, the dark-haired woman remained silent, waiting for the rest of Malvus' loyal followers to utter their acceptance without question.
None of them had questions. None of them had anything to contribute to this rotting circle. All but one. It was a mockery of what Vesperia was bred for, yet she was the one who was singled out and punished, her men ridiculed and spoken to like animals. Oh, they would rue the day...
Finally, the room seemed to fall silent for long enough for her to speak. Without an ounce of mockery or animation in her tones, she addressed Malvus. Shooting daggers into him, her steely blue eyes never once left the Sith. If there was ever a chilling look she could have kept locked upon him, Vesperia proved in that split moment that she was the Nexu in this room, once playing with her prey, yet no longer amused after their pathetic yowling.
"I'll pass on the word the Lord Cynik. I would ask about the Sith Arts Academy, but judging as that's not something brought up, I'll take the liberty to assume that it wasn't in your plans. I'll be sure to instruct Lord Atropheis to continue with his plans and ensure its full restoration and conversion."
She had topics to discuss; her men had plans for this glorious new order; introductions were in order; an agenda had been carved by her for her department--all ruined. Luxeria's point hadn't fallen on deaf ears. Because of it, Vesperia refused to give Malvus a simple 'understood' as the others. No, he needed to know who he made his Praetor. She and her followers were a force to be reckoned with. They would either be able to bring power to this new Sith order as she promised him that day, or they could be his demise. If Malvus wanted to keep making himself an early enemy, that was his prerogative. If there was one thing she hoped to nail into this corpse's coffin, it was that she wasn't merely a pretty face muddled by a crazed personality.
Vesperia had come prepared, unlike others. If Malvus, like Viox, would silence her and his advisors, this silly little circle would simply repeat itself later down the line.
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Darth Malvus
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Post by Darth Malvus on Feb 16, 2021 15:03:48 GMT -8
"I'll pass on the word the Lord Cynik. I would ask about the Sith Arts Academy, but judging as that's not something brought up, I'll take the liberty to assume that it wasn't in your plans. I'll be sure to instruct Lord Atropheis to continue with his plans and ensure its full restoration and conversion." Malvus turns to address Vesperia. The Sith would gesture to Monmouth as he spoke.The Circle of Knowledge will be investigating the Academy as ordered.He had remarked of the secrets that Thule and Dathomir offered with their annexation into Conclave territory. True, the Sith had not been precise on the orders, but he knew that the Seer understood the order of searching out for secrets and hidden treasures of the Old Sith. Thule was an immense world of secrets, most of which likely rested within the Sith Arts Academy.However, it is in the mission of the Circle of Advancement to revive that which has been neglected. Have Lord Atropheis do whatever is necessary to ensure that it is restored to its former glory. The factories of Thule, which your department will be reviving too, may serve to this purpose. I would advise working with the Seer to ensure that all goes accordingly. We must not harm what secrets lurk within.When it came the Circles working together, there would be unforeseen frictions.The Sith Arts Academy was once a nexus for assassins and saboteurs. It brought fear to the Old Republic in its darkest of ages. We must ensure that that fear is revived with the structure's restoration. A place of dreaded shadows that may once more spread darkness across the galaxy...The Sith looked at Veesperia once he was finished speaking. Whatever emotions the Hierarch may have were veiled once more.There may be still some... taint left over from the former regime. The inquisitors and our troops are hard at work ensuring the order of the planet. If any of these heretics are encountered within the Academy, use brutal force to ensure their compliance or their demise. I have no use for these... fake practitioners if they do not have any worth to their names.The Sith then looked around the table, leaving things open for anything further to say or question.Is there anything else, Praetors? Speak now if so.
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Luxeria
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Post by Luxeria on Feb 26, 2021 10:05:30 GMT -8
Luxeria listened as Vesperia finally spoke again, acknowledging the orders given to her. It was clear from her words that she had everything already thought out prior to arriving. With the mention of those that had come with her, there was no doubt in how far ahead the woman had thought. Had Luxeria been fully in the know, she, too, would have come with similar amounts of information to share. But she working from the rear and there was no use focusing on it any longer. The issues had been addressed so it was time to move on.
Next came Malvus's response, one that made Luxeria smirk faintly with a hint of sarcasm and a thought of irony. Despite not being clearly stated, it had been assumed that all parties involved would have understood the depth of the unspoken. Either that or the Sith had only concerned himself with those he felt mattered regarding the academy would know what he fully intended. Whatever the mindset, it was clear that every word and order that came from the Hierarch would need to be examined fully with emphasis on the hidden possibilities.
But it wasn't all that brought a smirk to her face. Once more, as she had heard since becoming his apprentice so long ago, he spoke of fakers, pretenders, and heretics. The Sith were all about weeding out the weak and uplifting the strong. Even with this mindset of unity, it still came down to the value of one's strength and if they served a purpose to the one in charge. Thoughts built upon nothing but perception, which was what had lead to the initial joining with the Blackguard and their recent departure from it. No matter the words or philosophies, for Sith, the strong and useful were the only ones that survived. It wasn't a mindset she was against, believing in the same. It was merely amusing to think about the few contradictions that popped up, no matter how faint or extravagant they were.
When the question of any further business came up, at first, Luxeria remained quiet. There was nothing left to speak on regarding her circle and its development. But as silence filled the room, waiting for one to respond, a thought came to her mind. This order was new with many fresh faces that had been recently acquired that hadn't been apart of the Blackguard. There were also many apprentices that had recently been taken by masters either before their departure from the Blackguard or just after the Resurgent Sith's formation. Many of these apprentices were still unknown in their strength to the larger group, only truly having acknowledgment from their masters. And with a few being allowed to be present for this meeting in order to learn and grow within the higher ranks, she felt that it was time to gather the forces and put many of these apprentices to the test.
"Come to think of it, I do have something I'm curious about. Though many of us that make up this new order, and especially this circle, have come from the Blackguard and have in some capacity proven ourselves and our skills, there are many faces that are new and unknown and their abilities are shrouded in mystery. Along with that are some of the apprentices that have found masters of late. Many of them are unknown in either face or ability. We as masters can attest to their capabilities, sure, but what all do the others know? How many wonder just where these former students stand? What is the worth of their training prior? Perhaps we should have a trial of sorts. Pit the apprentices against each other in a tournament scenario and bring together the Sith and the highest-ranking members within the order to see so that we can know them and they can only see for themselves those that lead this order."
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Darth Malvus
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Post by Darth Malvus on Mar 9, 2021 15:22:05 GMT -8
"Come to think of it, I do have something I'm curious about. Though many of us that make up this new order, and especially this circle, have come from the Blackguard and have in some capacity proven ourselves and our skills, there are many faces that are new and unknown and their abilities are shrouded in mystery. Along with that are some of the apprentices that have found masters of late. Many of them are unknown in either face or ability. We as masters can attest to their capabilities, sure, but what all do the others know? How many wonder just where these former students stand? What is the worth of their training prior? Perhaps we should have a trial of sorts. Pit the apprentices against each other in a tournament scenario and bring together the Sith and the highest-ranking members within the order to see so that we can know them and they can only see for themselves those that lead this order." Malvus turned his attention to Luxeria as she spoke up. She presented an idea that represented the reason why the Arena was rebuilt in the first place. It seemed that, in the ages before, the Arena was for both blood sport and feuds, from what records could be found. A means for Sith to prove their strength and cunning by overcoming all kinds of foes, both sentient and not. In a ways, there was a presence of Dark Side gladiators it seemed to a degree, that entertained the elite and the masses. The Circle of Knowledge had found pieces of old armor and equipment that once equipped these warriors for their bloody trials, all for the sake of cheers and the excitement of the crowds.A trial you say?The Hierarch lightly strokes one of his tendrils, thinking upon the suggested ceremony.There is great merit in what is suggested. As with any faction, we must look to the next generation and see who are the rising stars, who will likely be the strongest and most talented. Those who will be future leaders, commanders, and more. And, at the same time, it is good to create competition and test their worth to see if they are truly learning from our teachings or not.He looks at the Arbiter.Do you have any thoughts on the various tests and trials of such an event?
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Luxeria
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Post by Luxeria on Mar 10, 2021 8:21:23 GMT -8
As the Hierarch seemed to approve of her idea, Luxeria's eyes scanned the room, curious as to the thoughts of the others present. She, herself was quite curious, not only to see the potential of the newest students of the Resurgent Sith, but also that of her apprentice and the teaching she had received from Gavin and herself. A total of six of twelve that he had trained had stayed with the Sith, Kosrezic being her apprentice while she learned that Duvrax had become Vesperia's. The other four remained as acolytes, free from the instruction of teachers and overseers, but still without a master to fulfill the next steps of their training. She wanted to see the full depth of what they were capable of when faced with different scenarios, some that would certainly pit them against one another.
When asked what trials and tests could be included, she spoke. "That is the question. I would certainly imagine tests of combat, some versus various creatures of varying strength. Other tests would be in combat against one another. Perhaps we can take from the Great Hunt that happened some time ago. Have them traverse the harsh terrain of Korriban, tasked with slaying certain types and numbers of beasts. Either we can have them all afterward face each other in a tournament-style event to see which apprentice is currently the strongest or have said event for those who prove themselves in the initial hunt. But I also believe other tests and trials should be administered as well they don't specifically focus on the physical strength or strength of the Force. There are indeed many types of strengths to be observed that don't manifest themselves on the battlefield. Trials of intellect or means that masters of other arts can show where their abilities truly lie."
Luxeria shook her head with a scoff. "The Rule of Two felt like such a hindrance regarding such a thing. They felt the full depth of the Dark-side and its knowledge could be preserved and passed on through this single line, but I feel it only stagnated it. There are so much power and knowledge to glean from the Force and the Dark-Side, far more than can be learned by a single person in a single lifetime. So much more to discover. Interests and affinity also play a huge part. By having a larger order, many can be allowed to expand the many arts within the Force, allowing it to grow tenfold as they explore what all the Dark-Side has to teach us. That is why we should have trials that allow those that don't completely follow a warrior's path to reveal their strengths. However, we are Sith. If one can't survive on the battlefield, then they are doomed to perish. We cannot allow that."
She then looked around the room. "I'm curious if any of the other Praetors have ideas to contribute to specific trials and tests we could give."
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Darth Sirona
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Post by Darth Sirona on Mar 11, 2021 7:21:33 GMT -8
Monmouth listened again for a time, he did note those who he would be working along side on his varied assignments. But soon talk was turned to talk of a tournament of sorts. Trials to allow the young bloods to show their skills. An interesting idea. One that Monmouth would be interested to see. The Seer spoke up once the floor was opened by his peer.
Lady Luxeria, an excellent idea. I have in my time come across a number of riddles and tests that could be repurposed to test the intelligence of the next generation. Though I must agree with you, though I myself prefer the scholarly arts, battle prowess is vital and should be the primary focus of this endeavor. His eyes darted to the Hierarch's apprentice, and the one he feared would replace him before his time. Her own drive to uncover hidden knowledge and her proximity to their leader made her a present threat. One he wished to see humiliated publicly.
Sirona shifted nervously as the topic of tests were brought up, especially the topic of combat. Her weakest discipline. She knew it would all end with her knocked out first of whatever battle royal or tournament they planned. She then felt the Seer's eyes on her and looked up to see the anticipation in his face. It made her shudder, knowing that someone wasn't simply being spiteful, but actively rooting against her.
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Post by Elarinya on Mar 31, 2021 19:48:56 GMT -8
A series of tests with a semi-battle royale feel was certainly an appealing idea. It would indeed provide an opportunity for those of varying skillsets to show their strengths and provide evidence for any future advancement they might wish to seek. While it would indeed disadvantage those of a more academic preference when it came to the combat trials, it was a small price to pay. In truth, Maethoriel suspected Luxeria planned this with the intention her apprentice would come out atop the others. But the Arbiter was also risking that another could come out on top instead I agree, a set of trials would be quite useful in bringing us together and providing a little bit of competition between the apprentices... It might also give those seeking a Master a chance to show off their skills. Or those whom are looked down upon a chance to show up those that doubt them... The Circle of Domination can easily procure some additional beasts from across our worlds and provide combatants for the participants to face off against or be used for whatever means are necessary...
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Luxeria
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Post by Luxeria on Apr 1, 2021 21:23:10 GMT -8
Luxeria glanced over to Monmouth as he spoke. Her idea seemed to being gaining solid interest. And to have ideas that could handle what she considered the more difficult part was good to hear. Turning her head to fully address them man, she held out a hand, encouraging him to go on. "The more minds that can provide input, the more diverse challenging these trials will be. What ideas do you have to challenge the intellect?"
Shortly after, Maethoriel spoke up as well. While there where more than enough beasts wandering the desert sands around them, bringing in some more exotic and challenging beasts would be good as well. "I suspect that a few selections from other worlds could provide a unique test. We may have quite a few dangerous beasts on Korriban, but a few dedicated, tougher beasts could serve as a prestigious accomplishment."
She was quite curious how her own apprentice would handle the trials. It mattered not if she came out on top or not. Though Kosrezic had show her capabilities in the initial siege on the Sith worlds under the Blackguard, as well as other select missions, she was still curious to pushed the Twi’lek and see how she took to other situations, especially when pushed a bit harder.
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Darth Malvus
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Post by Darth Malvus on Apr 24, 2021 13:37:02 GMT -8
The Hierarch taps his chin slightly before waving his hand slightly, causing the holomap of the Conclave's territories to appear before the Praetors once more. Quickly, his eyes dart around, examining each of the planets with a minimal glance before turning to Luxeria.
Of the worlds we control, Dathomir, Ziost, Dromund Kaas, and Korriban each present opportunities for being homes to trials. Thule is too... civilized and cultivated to present much of a challenge. Especially with the heretics being hunted down and the stability becoming better by the day.
He waves his hand again, bringing up the aforementioned selection of worlds.
Dathomir could present a challenge of either wildlife or the Witches and their Nightbrothers. A test of survival and will power. The Witches are well versed with Force illusions and breaking the minds of even the strongest slave and visitor.
Malvus then glances at the worlds within the veil.
Ziost could be a test with the Inquisition. Korriban, a test with the restless and powerful spirits. Dromund Kaas... another trial against the forces of nature, mutated by the Dark Side of the Force. Each planet testing the endurance, the will power, and the mental ability of our youths. The ability to break a greater power and subjugate it to their will. After all, the basic principle of the Sith is that the strong will rule over the weak.
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Darth Sirona
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Post by Darth Sirona on Apr 24, 2021 16:27:25 GMT -8
Monmouth smirked as his suggestion was greeted with approval. I have some riddles that had been posed to me by troublesome specters or written upon the walls of tombs, where giving the correct answer was a matter of life or death. I can also reconstruct some of the simpler puzzles: moving blocks to the correct areas, shifting tiles, and the like. Any of these I could easily recreate. However this is your brainchild, so it would only be right for you to make the final selections. The Seer gave his head a bow and the direction of Luxeria.
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Luxeria
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Post by Luxeria on May 12, 2021 23:12:39 GMT -8
Luxeria listened as Malvus spoke. The idea had been met with a positive take. So much it seemed as if that it was certainly going to be a thing. It was now only a matter of the how and where. "For now, I feel holding it here on Korriban is the best option. The symbol Korriban plays in the history of the Sith makes it the best choice for an initial trial. However, thought I feel the planet should be the host, I see now reason why creatures from other worlds we control shouldn’t be brought in. The question really comes down to how we wish for this to transpire. I may provide the suggestion, but to fully test and display the full depth of an acolyte’s abilities, it must be built by the Circle. How many tests, what type of trials, these are the main questions that must be asked. I certainly believe multiple stages should be utilized, each allowing for different attributes to be explored. A race, a journey over the sands of Korriban, a maze full of tricks and riddles, what we can bring to the table is truly limitless. However, I feel, at the end of it all, a tournament putting the students against each other is the best option."
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Post by Elarinya on Jun 4, 2021 5:24:19 GMT -8
There are five seats... So why not 5 trials? Each of us comes up with a trial for our acolytes to participate in as our primary focus, while lending any aide any of the others need in setting up their trial. I think adjourning for now so we can have a couple days to work out ideas and plans for our trials would be a good idea. That way we can come up with something unique and suited for each of our own aspects of the Conclave... This meeting had been rather... eventful so far, and a break to let them all have some time to think on this suggestion properly would do them all some good. There were already some bitter feelings between some of the Praetor's, and remaining cooped up in this room too much longer could only serve to widen those rifts
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Luxeria
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Post by Luxeria on Aug 7, 2021 3:28:03 GMT -8
Luxeria nodded. "Perhaps that would be the smartest approach, unless any others have ideas that extend past the five circles of influence?"
Luxeria looked around, curious if there were any additional opinions. She wondered if a trial that was relevant to each circle would actually work, at least in terms of how her initial feelings on the trials were. For simply proving one’s skill, while there were technological approaches that one could take, she wondered how the circle of advancement would actually work. Then again, she wasn’t the most technological in terms of combat and skill outside of her lightsaber, so she wasn’t one to judge the effectiveness of it. But tests in strength of body, power in the Force, and mental state were definite factors that needed to be explored. Anything else that could showcase a specific acolyte’s abilities was the overall point.
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Darth Malvus
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Post by Darth Malvus on Aug 15, 2021 8:14:37 GMT -8
Malvus stroked one of his tendrils, listening to the suggestions and propositions made between the various Praetors. These trials needed to have both symbolic purpose and give a true test to the younger members of the Conclave; the various students and acolytes who would build a future among their ranks. First, the Hierarch nodded in agreement with Luxeria.The tests should take place on Korriban. Long has this world been left without purpose, drifting within space and untouched by our kind. As we have given it purpose once more, so shall it be where the tests of the next generation shall take place. And this shall be the template for future trials to come.Next, he agreed with Elarinya's suggestion of five trials.Knowledge, Domination, Advancement, Influence, and Mastery. Through each, the acolytes will be tested on the fundamental principle that each Circle stands for. To utilize the knowledge of the Dark Side, to dominate one's foes and rivals, to advance themselves by whatever is necessary, and to influence the galaxy... and, at the top of it all, to display a mastery gained by the crucible of these trials.Malvus suggests to his Praetors, wondering what they thought of this.
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