Faction Seek And Ye Shall Find | Darkseekers

[Alina Tremiru]

The goal was simple. Find the artifact and make sure it was preserved. Alina had one before. A Thought Dowser, technology belonging to the Ascendant cult of ages long past with the ability to control minds. Nothing impressive for the Sith, but why she was seeking it out anyway? Why did the Sith of the old do the same? Anyone could use it. A Sith could use it far more effectively, sure, but the most basic of non force user could take hold of and warp the minds of everyone else around them. Not even at a subtle level, they could make others do just about anything.

There were rumors of it belonging to a crime lord on Nar Shaddaa. Rumors of a man who could make anyone accept his deals. Nothing too crazy there, but the deals themselves were drastically in his favor. A drug operation, a protection racket. A Hutt's whole cartel. They were given to him without question. Mix that with the information of a two pronged device he carried with him all the time and it wasn't hard for Alina to guess what it was.

She'd found herself back here, in one way or another. Nar Shaddaa, where she and Darth Strosius were turned. Here she was again, walking through the streets. Much higher up than the questionable roads of her history, though. Gambling dens, dancing clubs. This was one of the richest parts of the whole planet. And it wasn't a Hutt that was running it. That alone had her raising a brow, but the enforcers she could see as she walked made it abundantly clear the man wasn't a joke.

Ultimately, she just needed to reach him and get the artifact back. Preferably without getting a bunch of guns pointed at her this time around.

 

[Bane Kaohal]

Alina Tremiru
​

Nar Shaddaa — a world full of shadows, and if one would simply scratch just beneath the surface, they would reveal a powerful and primal energy… one waiting to be tamed.

Bane slowly walked through the streets of the city, the nightlife of the machine in full play as he watched several drunks, drug dealers and prostitutes go about their business.

He found them repulsive, leaving a foul taste in his mouth and so, he kept his cold gaze dead ahead, not once gracing them with even so much as a second look.

He moved like a predator, one whom was on the prowl. He’d managed to be recruited, for a new organization — one that woukd act as the executioners axe for the Sith Order. It was an organization he found particular interest in... something worth exploring he felt, and one that created a nostalgia; reminding him of his time spent with the Dark Jedi Order. It had been an Order dedicated to strength, one delving into the true and raw strength of the dark side of the force.

Truth be told, he often missed the camaraderie he once felt… but that seemed like a lifetime ago.

As he continued down the street, he recalled to memory the description of the Spear of this organization. From what Bane gathered and what information he was made privy too, this girl, was an ambitious Sith that wanted to leave her mark on the world — rather, brand those that would take away from its strength; use its power for selfish gain; and thus single handedly volunteering herself ultimately to be its jury, judge and executioner.

He already liked the sound of her vessel and was curious as to the depth of it — inwardly wondering as to her strength.

As he came around the corner, his amber eyes gleamed like that of an animal stalking its prey, honing in on a tall, slender blonde haired young woman — one that fit the description of the person he was meant to meet with, Alina her name ringing within his mind. Her presence as he kept his distance for now was, subdued for the average person, silently waiting in wait to erupt forth, smoldering like a skillfully coaxed ember — however, Bane could feel the dark taint within her.

No mistake about it, this woman was the one.

Tucking his arms within his Kama’s sleeves, and allowing his right elbow to rest upon the hilt of his katana, Shadowrend, he walked towards Alina, coming just along side of her. As he would approach, his presence would be like a weight pressing down, a dark blanket, needing to muffle all those around he deemed weaker. As he came to a stop, his voice would break the silence, rolling from his lips like an animal clawing its way forth to freedom.

“ Alina, I presume.”

Bane was a man of very few words, and those he chose to spoke with he felt were worthy of his time — he was still undecided how he felt about the young woman by him… but these things he knew had a way of working themselves to an ultimate conclusion.

He was about to find out.

 

[Alina Tremiru]

"The one and only, if you ignore the fact there's probably a good chunk of this galaxy that shares the name." He wasn't being subtle. Alina turned her gaze towards the man, offering the type of smile that would never quite meet her eyes. They were here on a mission, after all. And this Bane wasn't someone she knew enough not to be on some edge. Was he going along with this for the fun of it? Was he the type to lash out of he was bored? Would he be the kind that would follow the overarching goal?

So much to figure out.

"You've got the briefing, yes?"

Bane Kaohal

 

[Nyxira Valis]

Nyxira stepped out from the shadows of the bustling Nar Shaddaa streets, the neon lights casting jagged reflections on the rain-slick pavement. The oppressive hum of the city was nothing compared to the weight of her presence as she moved toward the pair. Her violet eyes glowed faintly beneath the hood of her cloak, betraying her identity to anyone who had crossed her before. The storm she carried with her wasn't physical this time, but the tension in the air was unmistakable.

As she approached, her gaze swept over the two figures. Alina was poised, her sharp wit evident in her reply to the man at her side. The other, Bane, was a figure Nyxira immediately found intriguing. His presence pressed against her senses like a coiled predator, his aura steeped in darkness. It was a quality she could respect, though she would reserve judgment on his utility.

"So, this is the team," Nyxira said, her voice smooth and low, carrying just enough edge to command attention. She stopped beside Alina, her cloak shifting slightly to reveal the hilt of her lightsaber. A faint smirk tugged at her lips as she regarded them both.

Her violet eyes turned to Alina, a flicker of amusement in them, "Alina." Her tone was steady, though it softened as she added, "I promised my help, and I always keep my promises. If this Thought Dowser is as powerful as you say, it's worth ensuring it doesn't fall into the wrong hands."

Nyxira turned her attention to the street ahead, scanning the glimmering skyline of Nar Shaddaa's wealthiest district. "Have we confirmed the location of the artifact yet, or are we still in the stage of speculation?" Her gaze flicked briefly back to Alina and then to Bane. "If we're making moves, I'd like to ensure they're decisive. Wading through this cesspool of decadence isn't exactly my idea of a good time."

Her smirk deepened, and the faint crackle of her restrained power rippled in the air around her. "Shall we get to work?"

Alina Tremiru Bane Kaohal ​

 

[Bane Kaohal]

Alina Tremiru Nyxira Valis

A subtle smirk curled just at the edge of his lips as his cold amber gaze befell upon Alina. “Yet only one of those fits your description.” His voice mused with an indifference , continuing to speak.

“Yes, I received the briefing, and — to answer that gnawing question that I’m sure is in the back of your head… I’ll have no trouble ensuring the goal of our mission.”

He paused as his gaze drifted over towards the groups of enforcers that buzzed all around the complex she had been staking out, analyzing their guard patterns, examining entries and possible exits.

“I’m curious as to the depth of your vessel — hope it’s interesting.”

The air would chill at his words, the shadows whispering softly and air becoming heavy where they stood. Bane gauged strength in others — and he knew nothing of the woman standing beside him. How strong was she? How cunning and how deep could her cruelty and hate run? To what heights did her ambitions soar? He wanted to see if she would be one he could once again embrace a loose sense of companionship with, and ultimately, test his own limitations and surpass them once more.

Shifting his eyes to the new presence that now filled the group, a glint of approval within his amber eyes gleamed in response to her comment regarding the filth that inhabited the same space they now occupied, turns out birds of a feather did flock together.

Turning his gaze once more, and back to the complex, his voice broke the short silence between the three.

“Yes, I’m curious — what is your plan.”

This was about to get interesting.

 

[Kali'ka]

Like them all, Kali had her own reasons for allying with the Sangnir Sith. For Kali'ka, it was the woman's interest, and hopefully knowledge, of ancient Sith artifacts. As Kali approached the gathered Sith, her hand reached to touch the cracked amulet beneath her pitch black cloak. Perhaps, this endeavor would lead to answers about her own aritfact. One that proved powerful but any knowledge of it had eluded her, in spite of extensive research.

She recognized the tawny-headed Alina from their brief holo-call. The others not so much. They were studied, both by the deep mahogany eye and the crimson orb occupying her other eye socket. The man was not familiar, though her time among other Sith was limited. But the woman, a narrower gaze and the eye's cybernetic scan confirmed a suspicion that had Kali almost giddy. The once vanished Sorceress Valis. This was a boon indeed for the younger sorceress.

With a pace both casual and feline, the black-clad sorceress slid up to the others. A rakish smirk was flashed at Alina. The attractive features, adorned with black markings, flattened with reserve as they turned to Bane and nodded. Finally, a more demure smile was offered Nyxira.

"Sorry I'm late. Traffic was... problematic." She offered with a cavalier lilt. It was not so much traffic, but a froggy band of street thugs who had momentarily hindered her arrival. It took little effort to 'remove the obstacles'.

Alina Tremiru Bane Kaohal Nyxira Valis
​

 

[Alina Tremiru]

"The guy in charge has it. Which is the name he's chosen to call himself. The Guy." She chuckled lightly, glancing to Nyxira to give her a simple nod. That was someone Alina did know. Trust, as much as a Sith could trust another. And now a group of four. Her gaze shifted to the latest addition, offering a smile of her own. Another she didn't know directly, but how this was going to work didn't need them all to know each other.

Just that together they'd further their individual goals.

"He's bloated with greed, sitting at the top of this building, enjoying his time in the penthouse. Those who'd stand against him he either has others kill, or seem to end up working for him. My guess, the dowser. So we simply need to get to the top and meet him. The dowser can manipulate most minds, but I doubt he'll be able to twist any of the minds here."

If that was wrong, well. That would certainly suck for whoever was manipulated. The unspoken rule. Carry your weight, or be crushed underneath it. She tucked her hands into her pockets, one idly fiddling with the hilt of her own lightsaber she'd tucked away. "I'd rather not make a scene, as much as possible. Nar Shaddaa is full of too many bounty hunters to just attract the attention of. Think we can just walk in and request a meeting?"

Bane Kaohal | Nyxira Valis | Kali'ka

 

[Darth Moskvin]

Seek And Find

"Horrors, I believe, should be original--the use of common myths and legends being a weakening influence."
- H.P. Lovecraft -
​

Tags: Alina Tremiru / Bane Kaohal / Nyxira Valis / Kali'ka

Very few places, I will say with the absolution of past experiences, that Nar Shaddaa is undoubtedly a cancer, a viable candidate worthy of being cut from the flesh of the galaxy with rustic and infected medical instruments; whose inhabitants that call the cesspool home, a moon filled with scurrying vermin, should be chosen to host the next galactic genocide. Everything about that moon screams 'kill me', from the Hutts down to the paupers rummaging through the discarded memories of others. All that live there, every collected species, male and female alike deserve nothing less than to be sterilized, preventive measures from breeding, protecting the galaxy from inbred monstrosities. But alas, I am forced to endure another childish nightmare by coming here.

My intentions, like my motives, are never defined, never polished yet holds a filthy shine caked with the emotional unsettling that runs through my fields, unchecked and defecating in the still waters of society. I'm not crazy, as some of my peers have labeled me, I just possess a sick fascination with murder, and even when I try to explain my position on the topic of murder, they fail to see that I do not commit these atrocities because I hold the possession of power to do so; I murder because it brings me joy, a hobby for a girl to frolic through the withering pastures her undead life.

So, before my best interests to leave overrides my curiosity to be here, I moved through the crowds of the undesirables in ghostly fashion, the bones from severed fingers entwined in my hair dancing along, clanking like war drums. My intimidating presence, from my death-like appearance to the death swirling mists in these gold, vampiric eyes pushed aside others from my path. I have a nickname among my peers, one I believe is befitting, Lady Death. And, after some unforeseen annoyances, I stumbled upon the group whom I was to meet.

"I find this setting to be most infelicitous for an artifact," I said straightening out my left arm, were upon Archie, my fowl feathered friend, landed in preparation for his meal. "Only on a night such as this, would one find me standing amongst this carnival of a moon."

 

[Nyxira Valis]

Nyxira's violet eyes glinted faintly as she absorbed the varying energies of the group now gathered. Each individual carried their own unique presence, their strengths and eccentricities a volatile mix that could either lead to triumph or chaos. The storm inside her stirred with anticipation, but her demeanor remained composed as she glanced from Alina to Bane, to Kali'ka, and finally to Darth Moskvin, whose dramatic entrance earned a faint raise of Nyxira's brow.

"This is certainly a colorful team," Nyxira said, her voice smooth and edged with subtle amusement. "Fitting, perhaps, for Nar Shaddaa's equally colorful cesspool."

Her attention returned to Alina as she processed the plan. "Requesting a meeting could work," she said, her tone contemplative. "But all of us together? That would send a very particular message. A group like this strolling in unannounced would look less like a peaceful delegation and more like an execution squad. I doubt 'The Guy' would be eager to entertain us under those conditions."

Nyxira's smirk deepened as she continued, her glowing violet eyes narrowing slightly. "Instead, we split. A small group approaches him directly — calm, unassuming, and presenting themselves as something he can dismiss or manipulate. The rest of us remain nearby, out of sight but ready to intervene should the situation take a turn."

Her gaze flicked to Bane and Kali'ka. "I suggest one or two of us handle the meeting. The rest can cover alternative approaches — back entrances, surveillance, or simply standing by to deal with any contingencies."

Nyxira glanced back at Alina, her expression sharpening. "This artifact — the Thought Dowser — is likely the reason this man has risen so quickly. He may already be suspicious of people wanting to take it from him. Caution will be our strongest ally, at least until we're certain of the best way to extract it."

Her smirk softened, but the calculating glint in her eyes remained. "Who wants to play diplomat?"

Alina Tremiru Bane Kaohal Darth Moskvin Kali'ka ​

 

[Bane Kaohal]

Alina Tremiru | Nyxira Valis | Darth Moskvin | Kali'ka

​

Bane chose to ignore those gradually assembling into the group, his eyes narrowing as he assessed each individual's strengths. This preliminary evaluation was enough for him to gauge their worth. Standing stoically, his arms hidden within the sleeves of his Kama, his right elbow resting on the handle of his katana, Bane pondered the man behind the scenes. The man, motivated by the pursuit of power, was perpetually plagued by the fear of losing even a fraction of what he had gained. Such a man wouldn't meet with just anyone. The window of opportunity had passed, requiring weeks of preemptive groundwork and reconnaissance.

Bane, ever the strategist, always contemplating moves and countermoves, had a gambit up his sleeve—or rather, within his Kama. Breaking the silence, his deep voice resonated through the dimly lit space. Measured, calm, but with an underlying tone of sheer malice, he began, "This man, this 'Guy,' wouldn't at this point just allow any somebody to meet with him. This idea requires something to give, an exchange—one that gives him another advantage."

He paused, his eyes gleaming like an animal's in the low light. "If he values power, things that make him strong... then we offer to meet with him to give him more power—an offer he can't refuse."

Reaching within his Kama, Bane slowly pulled out a mask. As it came into full view, the low light revealed its ominous nature. The mask appeared to be formed from pieces of bone, unknown to the group. This mask, specifically forged and imbued with Bane's own life essence from the remains of his ancestors—the Darkmanel—resonated with the taint of the dark side. It whispered softly in the darkness, almost seeming alive.

Continuing, his tone remained calm and unwavering. "It is attuned to me, and me only. We offer this to him as a means to gain an audience; this will be our opportunity. I doubt any of us can be swayed by such an artifact, but if so—then we'll see who lacks the fortitude to take on such a... meager mission."

His eyes shifted, first to Nyxira Valis, who had initially suggested the whole idea—this was his way of acknowledging her plan, whether he came off that way or not—then to Alina Tremiru. He watched her carefully, wondering if she fully grasped the gravity of the situation and wondering what she would ultimately decide. "Your choice... but if you choose this route, I get a front row seat to watch the life drain out from his eyes."

Bane's mind was a labyrinth of calculated risks and strategic plays, always several steps ahead. As he spoke, his words were not just commands but veiled threats, each syllable dripping with the promise of what was to come. The mask in his hand was more than just a tool; it was a symbol of his cunning, his relentless pursuit of power, and the dark path he was willing to walk to achieve his ends. The others would soon realize that in the game of power, Bane was not just a player—he was the master.

 

[Kali'ka]

Alina Tremiru Bane Kaohal Nyxira Valis Darth Moskvin
​

A crimson cybernetic eye peered past the shadowy gathering to scan their surroundings. The young Sith didn't share quite as deep a disgust for their venue as some of her comrades, but Kali'ka was keenly aware of the potential complications Nar Shadda's residents and visitors could create. She saw nothing that concerned her and returned her attention to the discussion at hand.

It was a particularly nefarious cohort that had gathered. But the artifact, the Dowser, proved worthy of such esteemed Sith. The device was not meant for the profane use of a vulgar thug like this "Guy". The artifact was crafted for much nobler purposes, of which the Sith would ensure it would be employed.

Kali'ka was also well aware that she, among the Sith Lords at her side, was the lesser. A mere adept sorceress, she did not foolishly present herself more than that. The fallen jedi padawan waas titilated by the insidious darkness that her comrades eminated it was alluring and invigorating. Bane was more of a mystery, and she would not underestimate the fiery-headed man as he revealed the mask.

Beautifully grotesque, the Dark Side licking at it, Bane's own artifact could prove the key to accessing the Dowser. One glowing red and one deep mahogany eye fixed on him as he suggested some among them may or may not be able to resist the Dowser. Kali'ka was intent on proving herself able to resist its power.

As far as her role, Kali did not presume she would have a major part. But the part she was given, the adept would perform to impress. She was surrounded by power, and from her work with them, she hoped to increase her own.

​

 

[Alina Tremiru]

Splitting the party wasn't a bad idea at all, considering the people here. There was a lot of power here that could take this whole group down if they wished. But that wasn't the goal, at least for Alina. She chuckled ever so softly. Bane's offer of his blade was good, mostly. If the Guy could sense the Dark, then they could likely sense the Sith gathered here.

"Then, Bane and I will go in the front door as a seller. He can be my muscle." She nodded once at the idea before looking to Nyx. Her sorcery, that could be handy. She tilted her head. "You've a familiar, Nyx? Could be a useful set of eyes to scout through while we make a deal. I've no doubt he won't meet us in person right away. Guide the others up to him, just in case."

Nyxira Valis | Bane Kaohal | Darth Moskvin | Kali'ka

 

[Darth Moskvin]

Seek And Find

"Horrors, I believe, should be original--the use of common myths and legends being a weakening influence."
- H.P. Lovecraft -
​

Tags: Alina Tremiru / Bane Kaohal / Nyxira Valis / Kali'ka

"Now, now, Archie," I said slightly paying attention to what the others were saying whilst I fed my familiar, "What did we discuss? Yes, that's right. You do listen, occasionally. Stop being a glutton, small bites." Archie squawked, digging his beak into the pre-offered food before taking to the air. I look around at the others, who were stumbling upon a plan of action, a strategy they could collectively agree upon. To me, they were making this harder than it seemed, but it wasn't my place to reprimand; until I made a suggestion.

"If I may interject, though I'm not really asking for your permission as more than making a statement for the sake of statements, but why not draw him to us?" My cold eyes circulating among my peers, if I had to use a word to inscribe upon the lot, gauging them silently. We were a motley crew, an assembly of strangers with one common denominator; though my part in this was still shaking off the frigid, death-like coldness, and I had hoped to be off this moon already.

"Allow me to elaborate further so your minds don't get tangled up trying to chase my line of thinking," I began, my tone filled with mockery and displeasement that I felt the need to speak further on the subject, "If this 'Guy' likes to collect trinkets and outdated artifacts, clearly he would be interested in a powerful Force user; a Jedi in particular. But we lack one, sadly. Why not bait him with a Sith Lord? Surely, he would bite on an opportunity, and credits he could fetch selling a Lord, would fill his coffer for a very long time. And with him spellbound to us, we simply just ask him for the...what's it called again, oh, the whatchmacallit thingy."

"Though splitting the party, because that never fails, works too. And for Nyx's familiar, it is not required. I'll go forth to scout along with my fiendish fowl. Just don't take too long, I'm growing hungry, and it is unwise to be around a Sangnir when they hunger, as Alina could a test to."

I took a few steps back from the gathered party, flashing them a sinister smile, and using one of my spell-infused trinkets; I transformed into a raven and took flight. I would land in a well secure location, being the eyes and ears of the party. For now.

 

[Nyxira Valis]

Nyxira's violet eyes flickered with a mix of intrigue and faint amusement as the plans unfolded around her. Each voice carried a distinct cadence — Bane's measured malice, Kali'ka's quiet determination, Moskvin's theatrical disdain — and all of it created a storm of competing strategies. She allowed it to wash over her, considering each option, before stepping forward to reassert the focus of their efforts.

"A colorful team indeed," she said, her voice smooth, though a sharp edge of authority underpinned her words. Her gaze lingered on Bane's mask, a sinister artifact that whispered its own promises of power.

Her attention shifted to Alina, her tone softening slightly. "Splitting into teams is a wise move. We're not dealing with highly skilled combatants here."

She extended her hand, and with a subtle motion, the air around her shimmered and darkened. From the shadows at her feet emerged a form — wispy and amorphous, but with a vague humanoid outline. The shadowy spirit swirled, its dark tendrils writhing and coiling as it awaited her command.

"A familiar of my own creation. It will scout the upper floors while you make your approach. If this 'Guy' tries to shield himself or set a trap, it will alert me."

Alina Tremiru Bane Kaohal Darth Moskvin Kali'ka
​

 

[Bane Kaohal]

Nyxira Valis Alina Tremiru Darth Moskvin Kali'ka



​

he group had finally agreed on a plan. Bane would be the muscle, Alina the brains. The thought made him narrow his eyes for a moment, wondering if she was subtly insulting his intelligence. But then he dismissed it—after all, it took all of them to formulate the plan. All that mattered was he was soon to get a front-row seat to the show. His hair stood on edge, a murderous intent filling the air as a sardonic smile tugged at his lips.

Pulling out a piece of clothing, Bane carefully wrapped the Darkmantle in it. The fabric seemed to absorb some of the dark energy emanating from the mask. With deliberate movements, he handed it to Alina. An immense amount of trust was being placed in her, a rarity in itself.

"I advise not touching the Darkmantle directly...." Bane said, his voice low and measured. "I have no way of knowing what things you might see otherwise."

Internally, Bane's thoughts raced. This was a gamble, trusting someone else with something so precious, so dangerous. But the plan required it. The anticipation of the coming conflict sent a thrill through him. The thought of the chaos and destruction that awaited was almost intoxicating.

He glanced at Alina, watching her reaction. The air between them seemed to crackle with tension, an electric charge that connected them in this moment of shared purpose. His presence was imposing, unyielding, and he could see the weight of responsibility settle on her shoulders.

The plan was in motion, and soon, the true test would begin. For now, all that mattered was moving forward, each step bringing them closer to the inevitable clash. Bane was ready, poised to unleash the darkness within him, to revel in the power and the chaos that would follow.

Whatever internal doubts or questions lingered were buried deep. This was who he was—a force of nature, unrelenting and inevitable. And now, with Alina holding the Darkmantle, they were one step closer to seeing their plan through.

 

[Alina Tremiru]

".. Well, at least she'll be useful."

Alina hummed as she watched the other Sangnir fly off in the form of a bird. Biting tones and a dismissive attitude. They were certainly a Sith Lord who thought highly of themselves. They'd be useful, eventually. For now though her gaze drifted to Nyx, whom she nodded once to. A shadow familiar to scout ahead? Very useful indeed. "Then the plan is solid. Shall we, Bane?"

Her gaze shifted to the man, then the mask he'd offered out. A brow raised as she took it carefully. There was a pause as she felt the Dark reaching for her from within it, but it'd never reach her. For one reason or another, even holding the mask had a barrier between her and it. She kept it in front of her, as if presenting, before she nodded once to Bane and started to head inside.

It was time to begin.

Bane Kaohal | Nyxira Valis | Kali'ka | Darth Moskvin

 

[Kali'ka]

Alina Tremiru Bane Kaohal Nyxira Valis Darth Moskvin
​

An envy licked at Kali'ka as she watched Darth Nythira summon her shadowy familiar. In time, she too would hold such power. But for now, she was a learner. The conversation continued around the acolyte, the plan agreed upon in spite of the thinly veiled disapproval of the haughty Darth Moskvin. While the Sangir's demeanor was arrogant, Kali'ka could not deny an admiration of her powers as well, even as the Nightsister shifted and flew off with her 'pet'.

What truly drew her attention was Bane's mask. It was gruesomely beautiful and so rich with Darkness that Kali couldn't take her eyes from it until he covered it and gave it to Alina. It's unknown powers proved alluring. As she watched the exchange, the significance of passing the artifact to another was not lost on Kali. It was a testimony to Bane's commitment to retrieving the Dowser. Finally, the two turned to leave.

As the least of those in the cohort, and without specific instructions, Kali would support the surveillance and protection of Alina and Bane. She stood alone with the Sorceress Nyxira. The Kiffar looked up at the tall woman. "I'll keep watch over the front entrance."

​

 

[Bane Kaohal]

Alina Tremiru Nyxira Valis Kali'ka Darth Moskvin


​

Bane watched the other Sangnir vanish into the night, his presence like a whisper of impending doom. Alina's biting tones and dismissive attitude didn't faze him—he recognized the confidence of a Sith Lord.

With the Darkmantel securely in her grasp, Alina turned her gaze to Nyx, nodding in confirmation. A shadow familiar to scout ahead? "Useful indeed," Bane thought inwardly, a smirk tugging at his lips. Then, eyeing the rest of the group -- his eyes locking gaze with Kali'ka , Nyxira Valis and with a dry, humorless expression, he couldn't resist adding, "I'll try to leave some for the rest of you to have fun as well...."

The attempt at humor was as dry as Tatooine's sands. Bane's smug smirk widened slightly; it wasn't often he indulged in banter, but something about this mission had put him in a rare mood.

The heavily fortified building loomed ahead, brimming with enforcers. As they approached the entrance, Bane let Alina take the lead. Her skillful lies flowed effortlessly, her voice dripping with sincerity. She confidently mentioned needing to speak with "Guy," knowing his appetite for rare artifacts.

The enforcers weren't easily convinced, their eyes narrowing suspiciously. They inspected Bane roughly, their hands lingering on his weapons and belongings. The sheer audacity of their search sparked a flare of hatred within him, but he held his composure, knowing the mission took precedence.

His eyes burned holes into the back of Alina's head -- and like a muzzled dog who'd been trained to heel on command, he kept his mouth shut and his teeth restrained, his mind calculating every possible outcome.