Rumors of My Death

Progflaw99 · Aug 19, 2018

Regard your soldiers as your children, and they will follow you into the deepest valleys;

look on them as your own beloved sons, and they will stand by you even unto death.

~Sun Tzu

-

It had been first during the battle above Skor II that Sieger had once again revealed himself from beyond the shroud of secrecy, even from those he called child. Every parent keeps things from their children. An effort to save them some small measure of pain - for which each painful lesson learned so also does the parent suffer. At some point however, it becomes a matter of course for the parent to remove themselves, to hold their children accountable to their own actions and in doing so allow them to learn. Each one accountable unto themselves. A coming of age.

The Order of Ren had seen victory against the enemies of the First Order, defeat at the hands of the Ssi-Ruuk, and then victory against the Alliance. Perhaps that is what had made them bold, bold beyond reason. Though Sieger projected an air of omniscience he had in fact missed much. Weakened so had he been that his usual methods of staying in touch with his empire were out of the question. Upon his return he'd heard a number of rumors, many of them disquieting. His return from obscurity was underscored by a distinct tension both in behavior of those Ren who found themselves within the Bastion as well as in the Force, the Dark Side of the force seeming to exude directly from the Supreme Leader. Something had changed about his aura. No longer the subtle check over your shoulder sensation but a silent and oppressive presence seemed to fall upon all who passed near him. Though he had made his presence known days prior he yet seemed distant and withdrawn - at least until today. An assembly had been called of the entire Order.

Anticipation had permeated each and every one of the Disciples, the newest of which had seen the Supreme Leader only once if at all. Even some of the Knights had only seen him a number of times. If Sieger had called an assembly... what could it mean?

The great hall in the Bastion of Ren had seen many uses. From training space to a live battlefield during the Ssi-Ruuk assault on the Order's home, today it looked like neither. Great banners had been hung from the high ceiling, torches and braziers lined the edges of the open space. Large burners had been placed upon the raised dais, presumably where the Supreme Leader would be seated, a high backed obsidian throne draped with a golden cloth stood - empty.

Gathered there upon the floor sat the Disciples and Knights, small mats providing a seat for each of them as they waited. Whispers wandered between disciples for several moments before the Knights of the Order would hush them again - the training for the day had been completed and they were no doubt anxious to take full advantage of their "Free" time. Sieger made no such considerations, their whims the least of his concerns. Today he had other things on his mind. Soon enough they would all bear witness to what.

In the midst of the quiet rustlings of unease, a silence began to take hold. Those whispering found their voice no longer under their control, a hollow hiss all they were capable of uttering forth. The pressure was uncomfortable, painful even, but lethal it was not. He is come. The recognition of his presence among them would keep them silent as the loud crack of the marble doors swinging open on their hinges echoed in the hall. Two figures emerged, crimson from head to toe identifying them as Sieger's Praetorians. While not a new invention, the Praetorians had been renewed since his return.

The sound of their heels across the floor echoed as they took up position on either side of the throne. A moment later a form recognizable to even those who'd never heard his voice nor seen his face strode forward. Sieger Ren, the Supreme Leader of the First Order. With each step the disciples would later claim they felt the ground shake and under his gaze a flash of hot fire pass through them. Moments later he had taken his place upon the dais, two more of his crimson clad guards sealing the door shut behind them before they too took up position near the throne.

Sieger let his gaze rest upon the assembled of his order, silence hanging in the air for an uncomfortable minute before his voice issued forth - booming and commanding.

"My children. My sons. My daughters." His gaze swept over them all. "You have disappointed me greatly."

The sudden downturn of his voice was accompanied with a decided sneer. How angry he had been upon his return, rumors of his death had sent his Order to the brink of Chaos. These were to be his own, Sieger's servants not beholden to any government entity but to Sieger alone - and how had they repaid him when their test of loyalty was administered? Oh, his near death had not at all been planned, but the Ren and their actions spoke for themselves. There were things he needed to set straight in order to move forward.

"Is this how I taught you to behave?"

Sieger stepped foward, arms outstretched in question. For a fleeting moment a holostill of the rau between the Ren appeared suspended in the chamber where it hung. Those involved knew who they were even though the features were hard to make out. Though he had been anything but Omniscient, Sieger had discovered what he wanted to know upon his return and now he demanded answer.

"No better than the Sith, like vultures fighting over spoiled meat. You let your lust for power consume, your desire for responsibility drive you beyond logic. This grievance shall be repaid to me." Slowly crossing his arms in front of his body he called forth. "Kyrel. Varas. Primat. Doran. Step forward."

Varian Alaric · Aug 19, 2018

Primat had known something was going to happen. The notion had not come from a vision or illusion of any sort, no. It came from pure instinct and the force relaying a message of warning to Primat. Warning that something was about to happen. He didn't know what it was, though whatever it was, it kept the disciple on edge for what was about to happen. A few months ago, he would have been nervous at this prospect and even ignored the force. However, Primat knew better than to do that now. He had grown far more in the past few months since the battle of brothers turning on brother and sister on sister than he had in his six years of being in service to the Supreme Leader, Sieger Ren.

He had never seen the man before, nor heard him speak. But today, that would all change.

His head snapped upwards to look towards the large marble door as it swung open on it's hinges. Forthwith, two crimson guards walked through. Praetorian's. That's what they were, of course it was obvious. They normally didn't come out, and were rarely seen. The few times Primat had seen a full on Praetorian in crimson armor was on Virgillia, and more recently on Praesitlyn. He had seen the 'Eighth Guard,' as Marriskcal had called him. He didn't know the man, but he sensed that the man was among the four guards that had entered the room. Primat wasn't entranced by the guards, his glacier blue eyes remained fixated on the open doorway...as a new pair of footsteps joined the ones who had been made of metal. Without any introduction, he knew who the man was flatly. His presence in the force alone made a spine numbing shiver ride up Primat's back. It, it's Sieger! He is here...but why?

Primat's once courageous attitude faltered as his eyes locked onto the Supreme Leader. He kept his head bowed low, in respect and admiration to the man who was the Supreme Leader, in respect to Sieger Ren. Although his valor had faltered in the presence of Sieger, his resolve was never stronger than it was now, in the presence of the man who constructed the First Order. He didn't allow his fear to cloud his mind or judgment right now. He wasn't judging the man, no he would never do that. Primat, was judging himself. He was judging his own worth in the presence of Sieger. He felt as though he wasn't worthy to be here, in the presence of Sieger. But, he didn't move. If Sieger willed it so, Primat would follow unwavering.

"My children. My sons. My daughters...You have disappointed me greatly." At those words, Primat felt reignited guilt for what he had done in this throne room. Fighting against those he considered his own family. At the time and in the moment, he had considered his actions just in the name of the Supreme Leader. He had felt that what he was doing at that time, was right. Though now, he felt guilt over what they had done. But even now, he didn't know of any other way to have stopped all of the infighting. And even now, he still felt anger towards the Master of Ren, Kyrel...for sitting on Sieger's throne.

The next few moment's went by quickly and then...Primat heard the Supreme Leader call him up along with the rest of the other members of the Order of Ren. He didn't hesitate, even as thousands of thoughts swirled in his mind. Sieger had called him up, and he followed the man's command without question. He was nervous of course, more fearful than he had been earlier. He wasn't sure what the Supreme Leader had in store for him and the rest of the Ren, though whatever it was, he would follow the man. Thus, he walked over to the Supreme Leader, standing about twelve feet away from the man. And he took a knee in front of the man, bowing his head in respect to the Supreme Leader. He wasn't sure what to do with his lightsabers, so he withdrew them...placing them in front of him. He did this out of respect to the man, and to show he wouldn't try anything. He allowed for his thoughts, if the Supreme Leader intended to do so, be opened up to the Supreme Leader encase he needed to probe his thoughts for any intents of Primat.

Armand Temi · Aug 19, 2018

Well this ought to be good, thought the brunette clone. And as she walked into the Bastion, the oppressive atmosphere did not disappoint. The dark display of grandeur was readily apparent - slowly fluttering banners, flickering candles on towering sconces. Black, red and gold hues underscored the regal quality of the room. Varas crouched down and settled upon her knees on one of the mats, more comfortable than she’d anticipated it would be. The supplication she could do without, but her heart thumped in her chest just the same, not sure what to expect since she’d glimpsed Sieger Ren’s lifeless body on Lothal and then heard rumors of his return above the atmosphere of Skor.

The Knight glanced at Primat but found herself unable to speak, yet another unsettling revelation. As the marble doors swung open, she visibly startled.

And there he was, the Supreme Leader himself, his Praetorian Guards flanking him in their imposing red armor. Was Marr among them?

Whereas Primat had more of a prescient outlook on the occasion, Varas was completely blindsided. And furthermore in her head, she challenged Sieger Ren’s assumption that she lusted for power. Unless…

Not even able to send her good friend a telepathic missive, she fretted that her fraternizing with Primat had finally gotten the both of them in trouble. He rose first and stepped up to the obsidian throne. Taking a big gulp of air into her lungs, the clone stood and slowly approached, mirroring her brother’s motions, disarming herself and bowing to one knee. With the rest of the Ren an audience behind them, she prayed no one noticed how her legs were actually trembling.

Eighth Guard · Aug 20, 2018

The Eighth Guard, Praetorian Overlord

Equipment: Bilari Swordwhip - Praetorian Armour

Location: Bastion of Ren, Virgillia

Status: Attending

Among the four Praetorian Guards that had entered the great hall with the Supreme Leader, the two that stood closest to His throne could be distinguished from the others by the fact that they both had a crimson cloak fastened over their segmented pauldrons which flowed down until they ended just a few inches above the polished floor, no doubt the newly-appointed Praetorian Overlords. They were further separated by their choice of weaponry; one standing an electro-bisento before him while the other clutched a Bilari chain-whip against the ground, denoting the presence of the Eighth Guard among them. Eight remained as still as a statue as the Supreme Leader spoke, scanning the room for any signs of dissent all the while taking in His words as his dogma.

At the moment, he already recognized two distinct faces in the crowd: Primat and Varas Ren. The former he knew better, as he had worked with him on Praesitlyn to recover Sith artefacts, and was truthfully quite fond of due to his acquaintance with Marriskcal and absolute loyalty to the Supreme Leader; on the other hand, he had never formally met Varas, and despite the fact that he didn't hold it against her, he hadn't forgotten that she fought against his side during the battle in the Bastion. But he knew that she had changed, he had heard rumours that her relations with her father had crumbled over the past few months, a sign that perhaps even she had doubted him during the incident.

He heard the Supreme Leader call out several names, three of which belonged to usurpers and the remainder being Primat himself. The Eighth Guard presumed that he had been called because it had been inappropriate for him to have been involved in the fight, most likely due to his lack of affiliation with the Guard. And of course, there was him, the one that had provoked the entire debacle by undeservedly seating himself in the Supreme Leader's sovereign throne, the Master Kyrel. Having witnessed it personally, it had made the man's blood boil with rage, enough so that he dared to stand against him without knowing if anybody would assist him.

It was this fervour that brought him to now be anointed as one of the four Overlords beneath Sieger Ren himself, and now finally he would see divine justice inflicted on the renegade.

And if he resisted, he would slay him himself if need be.

Seto Du Couteau · Aug 20, 2018

Seto Du Couteau, Ren
Location: Throne Room, Knelt down on a Mat
Attire: Formal Wear
Weapons: Two Lightsabers, Crimson and Emerald

In the galaxy around him, Seto bothered with the notion of 'absolute' aside from the annoyance of how the galaxy continued to degrade into chaos regardless of anyone's effort to revert the process. The shock Seto hid within as he felt an almost unrealistic sense of control that filled the Great Hall neared 'absolute', so close that Seto would forgive himself later that perhaps the galaxy was not simply destined for utter despair. The young heir's smile erased, his body still as he knelt on his mat provided for him. The Supreme Leader of the First Order, Lord Sieger Ren himself entered the Great Hall, his Praetorian Guard marched ahead and with an unnatural stillness in the air, as if the Supreme Leader had controlled the very molecules that composed the air, his voice boomed outwards for all to hear.

The Supreme Leader was clearly unhappy, none to pleased with how so quickly descended into chaos with the whole debacle in the Throne room. Seto, unwillingly, witnessed the the set of actions that had lead and spiraled into this moment, a judgement to be cast over a select few of the Ren. Seto eyed those who were called and proceeded to move forward to face their Supreme Leader. Primat, a newly acquainted Sabacc partner and friend, followed by Varas that Seto unfortunately held no real knowledge except for her name. The rest would emerge afterwards, Kyrel the Steward and Disciple Doran both called out and commanded to approached their Lord.

Once, Seto watched a public execution, the Inquisitorial Order performed numerous silent executions, but that public example gave a clearer idea of how this galaxy ordered itself around. The Force struggled to reach Seto, his mind battled against the sheer presence will of the Supreme Leader made it near impossible. If Seto had the strength to laugh he would have done so, once more he felt himself powerless and weak. What a galaxy I continue to live through.

Creases formed on his vest and suit, the urge to straightened them vanished for the moment.

[member="Marriskcal Lati"] | [member="Eighth Guard"] | [member="Decima Fortan"] | [member="Racosidae"] | [member="Kyrel Ren"] | [member="Primat Ren"] | [member="Doran Ren"] | [member="Varas Ren"] | [member="Sieger Ren"]

Marriskcal Lati · Aug 20, 2018

Praetorian Initiate
Equipment | Lightsaber (blue) & Training Lightsaber (red; synthcrystal), Praetorian Armour
Location | Great Hall, Bastion of Ren, Virgillia
Status | Keeping vigil
With | [member="Sieger Ren"], [member="Eighth Guard"], [member="Decima Fortan"] (nearby), [member="Primat Ren"], [member="Varas Ren"], [member="Kyrel Ren"], [member="Doran Ren"], [member="Seto Du Couteau"], [member="Racosidae"], [member="Karnak Ren"], Order of Ren

[SIZE=11pt]While it has been several days since she had sworn her fealty, it still felt surreal for Marriskcal to serve as part of the Supreme Leader’s [/SIZE][SIZE=11pt]cortège. But here she stood, clad entirely in striking crimson as their Lord and Master spoke, the timbre of his voice imposing and the words he uttered admonishing. Though they were amongst kin, brothers and sisters, the initiate yet remained cautious and alert. Their schism in this very hall had only taught her to be wary, and to realise that though it may appear calm on the surface, there may be a storm brewing underneath. Her features veiled from the eyes of her brethren, the young initiate kept her senses sharp and focused, her gaze unwavering as she kept vigil. [/SIZE]

[SIZE=11pt]One by one, as figures of those who were summoned stepped forth, Marriskcal found herself closing her eyes for a moment. It was the only concession she allowed herself, even as her heart went out to Primat and Varas as she watched them kneel before the throne. She knew that it was not easy for any one being to receive the full regard of their Lord’s piercing gaze, more so when he was so clearly displeased. But while Marriskcal was concerned for the verdict that will befall her brother and sister, she remained calm for she knew the man she served with her heart and soul to be wise and fair. [/SIZE]

Natasi Fortan · Aug 20, 2018

There was something of a voyeuristic quality in Decima Fortan as she stood like a statue near the Supreme Leader's throne. A little like witnessing a rainstorm from the mouth of a secluded cave: she would likely not be drenched by the deluge, but she could still feel the chill and foreboding. And, like being in the mouth of a secluded cave while a rainstorm raged outside, there was a distinct possibility that Decima might endure some splatter. Decima felt somewhat protected because she had spent the last few years -- including during the time that this incident took place -- in captivity with the Ssi-Ruuk on Furia. She could not have participated in the shenanigans, nor could she have prevented them. Protected from the deluge.

But proximity to the Supreme Leader... well, that was how she might get splattered.

It seems the self-proclaimed Steward of Ren had been a naughty boy. Some of the pieces were beginning to come together for Decima; [member="Kyrel Ren"]'s naked ambition, always ostensibly for the benefit of the Knights of Ren, was becoming more clear. He must have viewed himself as a natural successor to [member="Sieger Ren"], for all the way he spoke that horrible day on Lothal where they had discovered the body that had apparently belonged to Sieger. So eager to think Sieger dead, so self-aggrandizing as to appoint himself Enforcer and Steward. Rumor had it that the man had even seated himself on Sieger's throne. The thought made Decima's blood boil, but she remained as stoic and impassive as possible beneath the armor of the Praetorian. It was a privilege and an honor to be there in that role; she would not debase herself as the Enforcer had by making a scene now.

She remained straight, unyielding, but ready.

[member="Sieger Ren"]

[member="Marriskcal Lati"] | [member="Eighth Guard"] | @Racoside

[member="Varas Ren"] | [member="Doran Ren"] | [member="Primat Ren"] | [member="Kyrel Ren"]

Elijah Brockway · Aug 20, 2018

Thankfully, the large crack in the center of the floor had been repaired since the last time Karnak had been present in the great hall.

It was good to have such things restored to their proper state, he thought. The stones had been taken out, new ones cut and put in their place. Barring the lack of weathering they had compared to the rest of the space, the change from old floor to new was nearly imperceptible. Covered over as much of the floor was with the Disciples and Knights of Ren, there was no way to notice them.

Karnak himself stood as an implacable statue against the wall, hands clasped over his hammer as he observed the proceedings. Even the other Disciples and Knights who were spaced near him gave the gargantuan man a wide berth, still unsure of him who was a relative newcomer to their midst. For his part, Karnak didn't care in the slightest, as the space and solitude suited him just fine. The last any of them had attempted to speak to him was to wonder why he didn't sit as the rest did; some few of the Disciples seemed incapable of appreciating the difficulties experienced by one of such a size as Karnak.

Soon enough, however, they had dispersed, a low mumbling taking place throughout the room, before being replaced with silence as Sieger Ren made his entrance. Shortly, he called forth four of those who had been involved in the battle in the throne room. One that Karnak himself had attempted to stop, though between the rage of the Eighth Guard and the bullheaded demeanour of Kyrel Ren it had proven fruitless.

The giant's eyes narrowed as he looked for Kyrel Ren amongst the larger group. The others who were called forward, he imagined might be chastised, though he'd be mildly surprised if it went beyond that. As for the first of them...

It shall be interesting to see what fate befalls the so-called Steward of Ren.

[member="Sieger Ren"]

[member="Kyrel Ren"] | [member="Varas Ren"] | [member="Primat Ren"] | [member="Doran Ren"]

[member="Marriskcal Lati"] | [member="Decima Fortan"] | [member="Eighth Guard"] | [member="Racosidae"] | [member="Seto Du Couteau"]

Krayn · Aug 20, 2018

The one known as the messenger had for months, remained quiet.

His will, as connected with the Supreme Leader as it is was broken upon the conclusion of the Alliance War and he had retreated into the depths of the Ren’s bastion to study, contemplate, and in time re-emerge as he was needed. It was today that the need had been put forward.

He was stood, not where the majority of the Ren were gathered, instead he had taken position in one of the many alcoves and darker places that surrounded the room. His clothing as ever the dark robes that he had worn for so many years in Sieger’s service.
He twitched slightly at the thought. Memories of times long past, where he had been known by another name. He pushed them aside. Sieger himself had told him that he was not to be distracted by such thoughts, especially now when he needed him the most.

Several were called forward, the guard around Sieger clearly tensing as certain elements were summoned by their Supreme Leader. He crossed his arms, maybe there was indeed more to today then even he had anticipated.

Kyrel Ren · Aug 20, 2018

Kyrel could feel a rush of emotion hit him. It was something that he had not felt in months, perhaps a year. Fear had coursed up his spine, while the Supreme Leader had returned and was an immense relief. He couldn't help but realize the numerous mistakes he had made. He didn't think of himself as Sieger's successor, only a guide. Hence why he was a Steward, hence why he was called such. The title in of itself was not meant to take over the Ren, but to make sure that they nonetheless survived in the absence of the Supreme Leader. But he had made mistakes, he was not meant for leadership. He did not wish it, he did the best he could when everyone save for the Ren that was there at the Bastion. His numerous mistakes had only led to this moment, despite his fear of what would become of him, torture, imprisonment even death. He still had his conviction that he had fulfilled the oath. That the Ren did not collapse, that they did not falter. The unwavering belief that everything that he had done, be it good or bad had been in the name of the Supreme Leader. For he should be crucified for that so be it.

He used the fear within him to give him strength, as he snapped in place the helmet to his armor, not long after that he approached with confidence. Not displaying the slightest hint of fear that progressed within him. If he should die today or even suffer a far worse fate so be it. Despite the looks he had received from those who hated him, who had wanted nothing more to perhaps see him killed. He didn't give them the satisfaction of seeing his face, and even then they wouldn't be rewarded with a scowl in anger, or even a cowering look of fear no. All of it was safely hidden behind the expressionless face of his mask. The respirator that supplied oxygen to his armor noisy made a sound of mechanical breathing. He approached slowly, the overpowering dark side aura that was the Supreme Leader filled Kyrel with a sense of comfort and dread as he stepped forth.

With the Supreme Leader speaking, his voice was filled with disappointment, and even a slight hint of anger at what Kyrel had led the Ren to be. He couldn't deny what happened, the infighting and the countless hate he was given. The squabbles that were caused since he had been acting Steward of the Ren. While many were quick to point the finger at Kyrel, even hate him, want him dead if anything. He accepted whatever fate came with humility as he was one of those that was summoned. Stepping forward slowly, his head held high, his eyes locked upon the Supreme Leader. He found his fear was slowly but surely shrugged away, he became more accepting of what fate would come before him, he did not fear the Supreme Leader knowing that now even he was just a man. In a new body, yes, but a man nonetheless that was nothing more and nothing less. He was not immortal as they were led to believe but like them all. Trapped within the confines of his own body, not limitless but sharing the limits of them all.

Stepping forth, he couldn't help but wonder if with the Supreme Leader's return. He couldn't help but wonder if perhaps the one he held the highest respect for. Decitus Ren had returned, a slight spark of joy filled his thoughts on how he had wished to see her perhaps again, but he couldn't let such thoughts distract him. Coming face to face with the Supreme Leader himself along with Varas, Primat, Doran and lastly himself. All of whom kneeled before the Supreme Leader. Kyrel was not without respect but took a slight confidant yet defiant approach. Bowing to him, but not kneeling prepared to accept what would befall before him. Ever so convinced that what he had did, he had no choice and did in the Supreme Leader's name. Nothing changing that.

[member="Krayn Ren"] [member="Karnak Ren"] [member="Decima Fortan"] [member="Marriskcal Lati"] [member="Seto Du Couteau"] [member="Varas Ren"] [member="Primat Ren"] [member="Sieger Ren"]

Dirk Bannahan · Aug 20, 2018

Enter the Violet Ren

Allies: Incidentally, No One

She had come and set cross legged in the provided mat for the latest display.

Inside, her mind and heart were truly empty; utterly and infinitely alone: a half bred fly stuck upon a way between giants and magpies.

What to make of the splendor of this moment and its tantamount importance.

A barren soul much like hers could provide no exact answer, no respite.

Today was the end of it though.

She was done with this place, and this Order. Before the end came she would let it fly one way or the other. Should blood be shed here for being nothing more than children orphaned after the promises of eternal enlightenment, so be it. It couldn't be said she possessed any hatred for anyone here. Nay, only the distinct hatred of being what she was and who she was. Thus the attack would come, either to flee into the darkness of great unknown, to lash out at Supreme Leader, the charlatan war master, or just go for every throat starting from the closest one for as long as the intensity could be maintained.

It wouldn't be a fitting end. Or a fulfilling end, but she saw no point into pursuing this sham of an existence any longer without testing the boundaries. All she could say, was how dare Sieger.

How could he have done this?

To come here, superior. Judging. Rae felt the scorn of lethality upon Lothal as well, and she nearly perished alone. She was most certainly broken by the wounding sustained there, but was she allowed months to rest or recovery? No, it was straight to the auxiliary, serving as little more than a glorified thrall, a slave thrown into grinder after grinder because she could sustain that much more punishment.

No longer. They would see. Yes, they would see.

Though the emotional tension in the room was at an all time high as Master Kyrel faced what was surely destruction, Racosidae closed her eyes and attempted to sense the world around through the Force, reaching out to perceive the various auras about the room.

Progflaw99 · Aug 21, 2018

Each in turn stepped forward, barring Doran. With a hiss, the Supreme Leader motioned towards one of the Masters before they scuttled away - the disciple had failed to present himself. He would be chastised of course but the fates had arraigned him with little more than that. The last of the Ren to step forward however drew Sieger's attention. It had been this self declared "Steward" who had deigned to sit upon Sieger's throne in his absence. This Steward who had seen fit to make an attempt at consolidating the Order as Sieger's body yet lay warm upon the battlefield of Lothal.

Ambition was an admirable quality, without it came complacency and rot - but too much ambition and there was an indisputable tendency to over reach. It happened between Sith, to the Jedi as they sought more power and became corrupt themselves, and now here in the Order of Ren as well. Perhaps none were truly free of the temptation - more likely thought Sieger, that was an excuse. The first had knelt and rendered his weapons, so also had the second, the third however stood upon the soles of his feet as he looked up towards Sieger. *This is how he shows his loyalty - with a public display of defiance in the face of the master of the Order?* Sieger's own disgust was worn evident across his features, eyebrows rising as he stood there.

"Lord Kyrel - is there a reason why you stand while the others kneel?"

The question voiced, a subtle sting at the end of his rhetorical.

"You bit off more than you could chew it seems." Sieger mused. "Come Master Kyrel, you wish to sit?"

Motioning towards the throne Sieger stepped aside, bidding the Master to ascend the shallow stair to the top. His intent was obvious, barbed words bidding the Master to obey his command. Would he refuse? Would he accept? It was a dichotomy which had no correct answer, one which would condemn the man behind the mask no matter which course - but it was a choice he would have to make regardless. As he waited for a response from the Master of Ren, Sieger motioned to the others, deep voice bidding them stand.

"Rise."

Along with his words a crooked finger pointing to the very base of the stair where it was evident they were to take up position. Their purpose would come to light eventually but for now they were bid to wait. Sieger wasn't one to play all his cards in one fell swoop, the game of bait and switch one he was intimately familiar with. A twitch played at the edge of his lips as he waited for the Master's response. Even as he waited his mind remained attuned to the others, he could feel the apprehension, the doubt, the fear of the unknown. One stood out among the rest, darker, deeper, a more powerful well beyond that of the others. A mental note kept track of in the Supreme Leader's mind before his voice breached the quiet hush again.

"You would defy the order of your Supreme Leader?" Sieger asked, hands still gesturing towards the vacant throne.

Varian Alaric · Aug 21, 2018

Primat didn't need to look that Varas was next to approach, he had sensed her force presence already in this room and he had felt her come forwards through the force. He was glad, at least, that she was at his side. At least he wouldn't be going through this all alone without anyone to help back him up. When Varas kneeled to his left, some of his fear went away, but that was a minuscule amount compared to the large amount of fear that was coursing through his blood. He didn't want to disappoint Sieger here, he already felt as though the Supreme Leader was disappointed in him for trying to defy Kyrel...but he didn't allow those thoughts to bubble to the surface. He still kept his mind open to the Supreme Leader, though he pushed back some nervous and apprehensive thoughts of his as he kneeled there...mere feet from a man who could kill him in an instant.

The amount of gravitas that emitted alone from Sieger Ren was enough to silence the whole room, and it silenced any thoughts of Primat's as well. He couldn't think...of anything at all when he was kneeling there, in front of the Supreme Leader. He felt as though the man's eyes were analyzing every thought and emotion he had ever felt, something which upset him. Mostly because, he didn't want Sieger to know about him and Varas. Or at least, he didn't want the man to bring up the subject in the throne room, in front of all of their peers and other members of the Order. Primat knew he could do nothing to stop the man from doing so, all he did was hope that Sieger Ren wouldn't do so now. And if he did eventually bring it up, Primat would be relieved...but he didn't know why that single notion would ever bring peace or relief to his mind.

The mere idea alluded him, but he thought no more on the subject as he heard the metal footsteps of Kyrel approach. He wasn't able to see what Kyrel was doing, but he had not heard the man unsheathe his weapons or the soft vibration through the ground if the man had kneeled. As much as Primat wanted to gloat in Kyrel's insubordination, he didn't. He tossed the thoughts from his mind as soon as they came, out of fear of Kyrel or Sieger reading them. But, he was more afraid of Kyrel reading his thoughts about his insubordination and defiance.

"Lord Kyrel - is there a reason why you stand while the others kneel? You bit off more than you could chew it seems. Come Master Kyrel, you wish to sit?" A shudder of nervousness and fright for the Steward of Ren flew up Primat's spine at the words that the Supreme Leader had spoken aloud. He had known that Kyrel would pay, somehow, for sitting upon Sieger's throne. And he had thought he would gloat and laugh about it, or in the past he did at least. But being here now, in the presence of the Supreme Leader...it actually made Primat feel sorry for the man who was Kyrel Ren. He wasn't sure what Sieger was planning, but he suspected whatever it was...the punishment would be severe. Even though Primat had feelings of sorrow for Kyrel, he didn't labor on those thoughts. Kyrel had known what he was doing when he had sat on the throne of the Supreme Leader.

"Rise." Primat drew in heavy breath at what Sieger had said. All he had said, was to rise. He didn't say get their weapons, which was why Primat left his two lightsabers in front of him as he stood up. He prayed that those who were of the Ren didn't notice his legs shake in fear as he stood up to his full height. Once up, Primat kept his head at an angle, to where he could shift his eyes to Sieger if necessary and to where he was still bowing his head in respect to the Supreme Leader He felt...vulnerable without his weapons, naked even at the thought of being defenseless. Which he was right now. But the whole time he had been in this throne room, while Sieger had been, he knew he was already defenseless. But he felt it more so now, as he he stood there. His eyes caught the movement of Sieger's hand as he motioned the two of them, Primat and Varas, to stand by the base of the stairs to his throne.

Taking a deep and nervous breath, Primat followed Sieger's command...walking to the throne with his head kept at a ninety degree angle before stopping at the base of the stairs, the front of his body facing the conglomerate of the Ren in the throne room.

Armand Temi · Aug 21, 2018

Varas felt warm and uncomfortable, mostly because she knew they were on display, and had no idea what fresh torture may happen to the lot of them. There was a strange electricity in the air, but not the kind that happened when she was alone with Primat.

And kark it all, I don’t want to be embarrassed in front of him.

The room was so quiet for a moment she could hear the creak of the red Praetorian armor as one of the guards shifted.

And then footsteps behind her softly thumped near by. The Knight of Ren did not dare to turn her head and look back but it seemed - quite distinctly - that Kyrel was not going to kneel.

Sieger’s inquiry confirmed her suspicion.

Oh father, she thought. What a mistake you make.

Perhaps I should feel sorry for him. Or maybe even help him? But in looking down at her gleaming black cybernetic hand, she balled it into a fist and realized if there was anything she’d inherited from both of her prime clones, it was the ability to survive no matter what the circumstances. Still, she closed her eyes when Sieger Ren motioned to the throne, having lost her will to watch what might happen.

“Rise.”

As soon as Primat rose, Varas also did the same, focusing on her brother's square shoulders and a soft, freckled area on the back of his neck that she’d once touched. While she was likely just walking at a normal pace, she felt as though she were scuttling off to a darkened corner, forced to witness something she did not necessarily want to see. She longed to clutch his arm but kept her hands at her sides, a lump forming in her throat, the hard knot of dread clogging her airway, unable to be forced back down.

Kyrel Ren · Aug 22, 2018

The tension in the throne room was thick, he could sense it. Everyone was perhaps thinking on what man was he? Why or how he could have done this? What gives him the right to stand when told to kneel? How dare he? He could relate to these sentiments, even question them himself. But within the dark halls of the Bastion, he had thought a lot. Thought a lot about himself, the decisions he had made. Whether they were right, whether they were wrong. He couldn't argue about what he did, about assuming control when they were left to die. Cast out like undesirables. Perhaps it was his will that they would die, that he even sought to make the Ren anew. And given he would normally kneel before him, he stood now perhaps one of his most faithful servants in an unsaid act of open defiance. He could see the hidden outrage within the Supreme Leader's face, perhaps seeing Kyrel as something he could cast aside.

But to his surprise, the Supreme Leader slowly rose, Kyrel remained on his guard as if curious if he was going to attack. Much to his surprise, he posed a question to the Enforcer. One that had completely quite Kyrel off guard, to take a seat on his throne. Thoughts were rushing through his mind, and memories quickly flooded his mind. The time of when he had sat upon the throne, of how he did not do it out of want. How he did it as perhaps the only way to survive, when they were left behind like rabid dogs fending for scraps. Yet here Sieger was ordering him to sit upon it. In any normal circumstances, he would have answered without question. But now he stood before him, and couldn't help but question what was the meaning of it all. Was it a test? Was he actually being serious? What was the point of his game here?

He said nothing, as he told the others to rise, and hit the base of the stairs. Making a quick glance at Varas's gaze, wondering what she thought of him. He did regret trying to control her, to use her to his own purposes and designs. He had realized that yet that was another mistake. As a Father he couldn't help but be more proud of her, and only wished that he could have been a better father to her. Much like his own Father was to him. One of his many regrets that went through his mind for a while. But quickly reverted his gaze back to both the Supreme Leader, and the empty throne to which he sat upon once. The chamber remained silent as a corpse. The Ren watching as quiet spectators of the standoff between the Enforcer and the Supreme Leader.

He thought carefully, he was loyal to the Supreme Leader yes, wished to uphold many of the upstanding values. But to this man, he was unsure of now. What he was taught for so many years, was a lie. He was no god. No immortal figure that possessed limitless power. He was a man first and foremost. Now he stood unafraid. Accepting of what might happen as he spoke clear conviction in his tone. "No." He said and could perhaps already imagine what his reaction would be, but then continued unafraid. "I will serve you, follow every order, but I will not sit on that throne again. It is clear I do not possess the charisma or the clarity you have Sieger. That failure is perhaps the greatest teacher. But I ask you, you asked this of me but I only wish to know answers. Yes, we are your servants, there is no questioning that. We are your followers and serve you in every way. You are the leader of perhaps the biggest and most feared force since the Empire. All these things you have, yet I asked why did you abandon us? After your death where did you go with Decitus and Zambrano? Why weren't we told? Did you desire all of us dead? I maybe defiant now, and will accept what would come before me, be it torture, imprisonment, brainwashing. What fate you would befall upon me I accept it. But all I ask is why?" He said standing unafraid. Prepared to meet his fate if necessary, a cold shiver running up his spine as he met Sieger's gaze.

[member="Varas Ren"] [member="Primat Ren"] [member="Sieger Ren"] @Racosidae [member="Krayn Ren"] [member="Karnak Ren"] [member="Marriskcal Lati"] [member="Eighth Guard"] [member="Samka Derith"]

Progflaw99 · Aug 24, 2018

"No."

The word alone something Sieger was unaccustomed to hearing, least of all from his most loyal. It had been an answer expected, a response Sieger had meticulously framed down to the last breath. *So you do dare.* As the Master Ren's defiance hung in the air for all to hear and his knee remained unbent, a gentle rumble permeated the welling tides of the Force. Almost theatrically Sieger's expression changed from one of inquiry to one of dark joy. The corners of his lips twitched as a marked sneer spread across his features. The man continued speaking, his vocabulator amplifying the sound of his voice even in the quiet of the large room. Sieger didn't wait for him to finish.

"Take that ridiculous thing off."

His voice welled with malicious intent, eyes ablaze with fire. A low snarl seemed to escape his lips as a monolithic swell of the Dark Side channeled itself through Sieger. "You dare to defy me?. No, no Master Kyrel, I insist." Any subtle grace that remained in Sieger's posture was immediately discarded. Raw, primal power surged from the fingertips of the Supreme Leader as he curled his fingers into a fist. Forces unseen applied pressure to Kyrel's mask, his helmet, immeasurable pressure threatening to send it shattering into pieces. "I said - Sit." As the final word escaped his lips, Sieger's expression shifted once more, a vile grin stretching across his face as he forcefully attempted to move and then confine the Master of Ren into the obsidian throne.

Varian Alaric · Aug 25, 2018

"No."

Primat wasn't sure what he had been expecting of Kyrel's response. He supposed he had hope that the man would comply with some of Sieger's orders in the very least to appease the Supreme Leader's distaste and anger. Yet, how wrong one could be when they thought hopefully and for the best, even for their allies. The Steward's declaration of declining Sieger's 'offer,' wasn't something that the Disciple had not expected. The idea of it wasn't unexpected or considered, yet the notion that the Master of Ren, Kyrel,would actually go through with that concept...that wasn't even considered at all. Primat had believed that Kyrel would still be insubordinate to Sieger Ren, though he assumed in the least that he would follow the Supreme Leader's orders which were disguised as 'wise suggestions.' At least, that was how Primat had seen it. Even though Kyrel had 'threatened' the young Disciple, at least from his perspective that is, he still didn't wish to see the man who was the father of Varas die. He was disgusted with the man sitting on Sieger's throne, and by his actions in the throne room....and by how he had treated Varas of course. Though none of that made him seek the death of the Steward. Even the threat hadn't made him want Kyrel to die, though at the time it had. It had taken much coaxing from Marr and Varas to calm him down from his anger.

Primat's glacier blue eyes kept their focus on the Supreme Leader, a little below the neck...not daring to look the man in the eyes if he turned around. Purely out of respect was the reason he did that, not for any traitorous or insubordinate reason. His pupils refocused themselves on the back of Sieger's neck as the man began to speak. And he didn't have to see the man's face to know that he was angry now. The man's shift of body language, the tightening of finger's and the subtle change of foot placement was evidence alone to Primat before Sieger had spoken, that he was infuriated at Kyrel's disobedience. His thought was further cemented in truth when he heard the venom in Sieger Ren's voice. Something that made his gaze quickly fall to the tiled squares of stone work beneath him, gazing at them in 'bewilderment,' or at least it appeared that way. In truth, the way the Supreme Leader spoke now evoked great fear in the disciple. So much so, that Primat opened up the whole of his mind to the Supreme Leader now. Allowing him to see everything, his feeling about Varas, his friendship with Marr, his anger at Kyrel...his fear of being the cause of Varas dying. All of it.

His eyes swept over to Varas who stood to his right, a few feet between the two. He wanted to say something, anything to her to try and comfort her. But he couldn't, not now, not here. He wanted to hold her close and tell her everything would be alright. Though, that was a lie.

"Take that ridiculous thing off. You dare to defy me?. No, no Master Kyrel, I insist."

When Primat had looked up again, he wished that he had not. He didn't know what he had expected to see, though it wasn't...that. He was shocked to see the symbolic mask of Kyrel, his helmet...the thing that signified who he was, began to splinter and crush in on it's self. Seeing that with his own two eyes was, daunting to say the least...and it made the man shiver as a chill of fear crawled up his spine like it were a creeping spider. He quickly brought his sight back to the back of the Supreme Leader's neck. Even though he was afraid now, more than ever, because of how the man was speaking...he was more afraid to see what he was doing to Kyrel. It was something he didn't want to see. Ever again.

Krayn · Aug 28, 2018

The chamber had shifted dramatically in the moments following Sieger’s words. A darkening shadow that had moved from beyond the corners and taken up a commanding presence from Sieger’s throne to the ones he had told to kneel and await judgement. For the surrounding order it felt like waves of pressure settling down on them all.

For Krayn it was invigorating.

~Down here~

The words ripped through his mind, tearing any thoughts or personal emotion that may have been in his head before, the will of the Supreme Leader connected with his messenger, making sure that once more he had full control over his tool.

~Down here and stand with me~

Slowly the Messenger, clad in the robes, armour and helmet that he had worn ever since being present within the Order’s following, made it down the steps that led into the chamber. The Supreme leader was making his will known to Kyrel, the one who had thought himself above his station, the one who had gone against all they had sworn for.

From out of the shadows he emerged to stand not with the others to near the rear of the Supreme Leaders throne where he could witness the events unfolding, nearby the Praetorian Guard stood ready.

As did he.

Kyrel Ren · Aug 29, 2018

With Kyrel's single word that was what the Supreme Leader already needed, before he continued his statement. His face said it all, the vocabulater within the Enforcer's helmet stopped, as the man curled his fingers and of course, Kyrel tried to resist trying to form a barrier with the Force. It was useless even with how powerful Kyrel was in the Force, despite the willpower he carried he couldn't stand a chance from the person who he perhaps most feared. Or he should say use to fear, it was as if an invisible hand gripped his entire body. His vocabulater stopped, the HUD immediately shut down the last thing he could see visually was the Supreme Leader's disappointing look, and his curled fingers as he felt his will being imposed onto his own. Rendered powerless before he could even do anything. His mask shattered to pieces all over the floor exposing a surprising scowl hidden beneath, his face no longer full of color. No longer filled with life as it used to be. As if his hair was starting to be. Thanks to his constant immersion into the power of the dark side his body physically started to buckle under the power that the dark side held.

Everyone watched, stunned and waiting with anticipation what would happen between the Supreme Leader and the Master of Ren who dared defy his word. It was unheard of course. No Ren with any sense ever defied his or her Master. Kyrel least suspected of doing such an act himself. He either had to be crazy or stupid, perhaps he could say it was a bit of both. But his scowl turned to impassiveness. His body no matter if he tried as if it was like Hoth all over again. He could not move. He could only look at the Supreme Leader. Whatever subtle kindness he had offered in his words replaced by anger and disappointment at the act Kyrel tried to do.

The man didn't fight back any longer. He couldn't even if he wanted to. All that there was in the room was silent, no one could speak, eyes were drawn to the scene and only they could wonder what would happen. Kyrel in the grasp of that invisible hand began to move forward. Not of his will, no but because the Supreme Leader wished it. And what the Supreme Leader wished would occur one way or the other. He should have known that much, yet he thought he could still defy an order from him. As if he had such free will when that was only an illusion in the face of such power. His body moved not of its own volition towards the throne.

Remaining an impassive look, as he saw bits and pieces of missing mask scattered all across the floor. He was unable to even speak. The will of the Supreme Leader forced him to move but prevented him from even speaking. As his body slowly turned and sat on the throne. A throne he had no desire to sit in, and yet forced to sit within it from a man who should have been dead. Who they all were told could not die, yet he did as he had seen the body himself. His hands were placed on the ends of the throne, as all he could do was unwillingly watched as what the man had planned, what would become of him. He thought that it wasn't good no good could perhaps come of it. If it did he wouldn't be sitting here, he wouldn't have been forced to. Yet as with all things, he was powerless to stop it. An expendable pawn made to serve a purpose made to serve the will of the Supreme Leader, and today he dared to defy such a purpose. Even for a slight moment. All he could do now was watch helplessly within the dark throne room. Of what would happen next.

[member="Krayn Ren"] [member="Primat Ren"] [member="Varas Ren"] [member="Sieger Ren"] @Racosidae @Karnak Ren [member="Samka Derith"] [member="Marriskcal Lati"] [member="Decima Fortan"]

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