Set Upon Dark Shores

[Vytal Noctura]

Location: Just outside the isle of Vureshakkairn Castle, Ryloth
Objective: Establish a Foothold on the 'Other Side'
Invited Parties: Mandragora | Knights Obsidian | Confederacy of Indepndent Systems personnel

Vytal Noctura sent word throughout the Castle and the Knights Obsidian that she would be leading an expedition into dangerous and 'unfamiliar' territory in one week's time. Since that declaration, she sent upon having materials assembled in preparation for the journey ahead. Initially they would only cross over to set up a base of operations. Once that was in place, and after careful study of the surrounding region, they would expand outward. It was sure to be an expansive, perhaps even endless world wholly unlike their own without countless mysteries and untold dangers to be found.

Only Pom knew the depth of Vytal's exposure to the Netherworld. Almost any other person only expected the Nightmother to commune with spirits with one foot in both realms. Even with more experience than the vast majority of galactic citizens, however, she had barely scratched the surface. Only blind luck -- or fortune -- had dropped her in the lap of luxury lost within the Unseen World. A miracle that left her able to transition between them, but not without danger. You did not set foot into the Nether as one might cross between rooms in a quaint cottage. Without a secured fixed point of entry they might end up before a creature most vile, and anxious for sustenance.

Now, one week later, at the appointed time, Vytal stood on the open plain of Ryloth. The Castle of Vureshakkairn stood tall in the backdrop with the roar of cascading water a soft whisper. Visitors would be instructed how to proceed to the location from the hanger by Mandragora or those stationed there. Residents were mindful to remain vigilant for those that strayed too far -- the Castle and its majestic forest were as dangerous as they were wondrous. Not everyone fully appreciated the extent of either.

A small gathering of sisters, brothers, and even a few mortals without much in the way of magick (or the Force) were clustered near Vytal at that moment. They were finishing the checklist of all materials present needed to establish a camp on the Other Side. There was little by the way of turbolasers and antipersonnel equipment as any danger they faced would be untroubled by such technological rebuke. What existed of the material would solely be to support those of this world entering the next before their time. Security of the camp would be left to those knowledgeable in matters of magick and spirits.

"Those not tasked with scouting the immediate area should not stray far before defensive measures can be taken. Those unfamiliar with spirits should stay close to those that are whenever possible; the entities in the Nether can be temperamental; and you do not want to be caught by one in a foul mood." The Dathomiri woman visually surveyed all those before her. "We leave in ten minutes to take the first step in unraveling the mysteries of what lay beyond."

 

[Djonas Vile]

Fresh out of hyperspace, the Amidala's Lament advanced towards Ryloth at a steady pace. Warden Master Djonas Vile had just risen from his bed in his cabin. The trip was not long, however he and his crew took the time to have a party during the trip. Djonas had a little more to drink that he should have. Luckily, he had a doctor on the ship who had the perfect little homemade concoction for hangovers. A few swigs of the violet liquid, and Djonas felt as good as new. As he was finishing up his morning routine, the beeping from the ship's PA system went off.

"Bridge to All Stations: Prepare for landing. We will be on Ryloth in approximately 10 minutes."

Djonas sighed deeply. It was time to get to work. He had been on vacation so long that he forgot that feeling one gets just before a mission. A combination of excitement and nervousness. Everyone felt it no matter how much they denied it. Djonas was one of the few brave one to admit it. He walked over to his wardrobe then pulled out his clothes and got himself dressed. He walked over to the glass case that held his lightsaber pike and pulled his weapon from it before departing from his cabin.

The doors to the bridge slid open before Djonas and he stepped inside. As he walked up behind his pilot, the ship broke through the atmosphere of Ryloth and entered the skies. His pilot turned her head to him, acknowledging his presence with a soft smile. "Vureshakkairn Castle is within sight, Master Vile. We will be landing shortly. Will you be taking the T-100, sir?"

"Nah. I think I'll just go on foot," Djonas replied. Soon, the ship landed on the ground and, shortly after, the ramp opened up and Djonas descended the ramp and took his first steps on Ryloth in many years. When he arrived, a Mandragora stepped up to him and escorted him to where he would meet with the others. When he arrived, there weren't many there, however some young faces he recognized from training. He then caught himself on a Dathomiri speaking up. Likely the one that called them there. She was kinda cute, he thought. In a menacing 'I'll break your arm off if you touch me" sorta way. He seemed to be attracted to those a bit more often than one should.

Either way, he was ready for what was ahead.

These shores were about to get a bit darker.

[member="Vytal Noctura"]​

 

[Credius Nargath]

Spirits, the Netherrealm...

Had it been decades ago in his youth, the man would've scoffed at the very idea of such ridiculous ideas. However, Credius had grown, he had seen things most mortal men would run from or would simply turn them stark raving mad. Ever since he had first set foot within the world of the force, within the domain of sith teachings, his hunger for knowledge and information had greatly grown. However, up until this point, he had not yet figured out a way to step foot in this place beyond mortality, which all in all was quite the intriguing offer coming from the Knights Obsidian channels. Sure, he himself was no Knight of the order or even a member of that annoying sisterhood, but he'd argue that both of those were beneath him when it came to true acknowledgement within the depths of the force.

With his Valkan dagger paving a way through space towards his goal, Credius contemplated the very reason behind this scheduled "trip". After all, such a thing was not just a great undertaking, it had to be a cautious and daring one, as the mysteries of the realm beyond realms were vast and elusive. One wrong step may have ended up with consequences none would be willing to foresee. "Entering the domain of those long gone from this realm," For a moment he chuckled at that very thought, calmly caressing the family jewel which he displayed even atop his armor. "It would be madness for any mortal such as myself to do something like that...but just thinking about the vast amount of knowledge one would gain from any such interaction is...celubrious."

Despite not being a fan of the Mandragora and their...actions, Credius had to admit that the sight of the Verushakkairn castle on Ryloth was nothing to scoff at. It was perhaps not as massive as the Valkan citadel, but its architecture and inspiring view were nonetheless magnificent to behold, especially when one considered this was built upon the plains of a planet populated by twi'lecs, who generally seemed to be austere and conservative with their heritage and the showing thereof.

Upon landing within the designated area, the Viceroy was instructed how to get to the location where the nightmother herself would be assessing the situation and the provisional check-ups of this undertaking. It wouldn't take long for him to reach that place, even decked out in his heavy armor, the trip was not all that long or exhausting, what was perhaps more exhausting was his constant vigilance among those Dathmori, who he could not force himself to trust in any possible way. Finally though, upon arriving at the scene, his eyes cought sight of the one who was leading everything, making him grind his teeth ever so subtly. This woman, this [member="Vytal Noctura"] was there when Eriadu lost its independence, he didn't hate her, but he was far from trusting this woman as well, as her actions on eriadu had given him the clear warning not to underestimate that witch.

"Esteemed Nightmother, such a...honor to see you," Credius calmly approached her, not deigning to remove his helmet before this witch, knowing fully well she knew who or what was hidden underneath anyways. With a courteous bow he stood still near her. "I see that after hunting for trinkets in this realm, you seek to satiate your hunger within the next, is it not?"

[member="Djonas Vile"] [member="Vytal Noctura"]

 

[Vytal Noctura]

Vytal nodded with a report of assembled supplies and personnel for the expedition. Would it be enough? Any other time she'd entered the realm never had she sought to setup an actual camp that would linger for length of time. Her first venture in the undying -- or ever-dead -- land had been fraught with peril and nearly certain death; not somewhere she'd thought to tarry ever longer than was needed. Now, however, that was exactly what they would do. Where else was undeniably that of the spiritual among them? Those without an innate closeness to the many currents of power in the galaxy had their worlds; the Force Users had their philosophies and sorceresses; and the Witches and Warlocks would have this.

Even so, the Dathomiri Witch frowned a bit at the lack of certain familiar or new faces among them. Perhaps they were not ready, or perhaps they would be along. As the effort intended to set a permanent passage between worlds being 'late' would not preclude any from joining them. Though tardiness may cause them to miss rather important safety briefings. Vytal couldn't hold everyone's hand.

A male's voice came from the crowd as its owner emerged from the bustle of people performing final preparations. Vytal's eyes fastened upon visage. Curious, but not shocking to find one such as [member="Credius Nargath"] present for this venture. Were it not for the man's damnable pursuit of acquiring materials for himself she might even be inclined to offer him to join them in other matters -- though she doubted he would be interested so long as she requested he share information or items acquired during the pursuit. Not that she'd given up on him. Just because they had not come to an understanding yet did not mean it was not possible to do so.

"Trinkets are left to treasure hunters seeking a quick return on minimal investment, Lord Nargath." It was true that the Mandragora sought objects of power -- for study, and to ensure their enemies didn't get them first -- but the word he'd used demeaned their very nature. It also looked down upon the wok her sisters and brothers performed every day, which did not sit well with her. "I hope you did not come here expecting to return with something truly not of this world. Almost any that do find themselves only haunted by specters better left behind. What awaits us is the first step to exploring a limitless world. What we discover today will pale before what is discovered tomorrow."

A small smile graced her lips for a moment. "I am grateful you could join us. And you, Knight Vile," she acknowledged the other man that had not intruded. For the moment she'd not mention [member="Djonas Vile"]'s rank as Master of the Obsidian Knights unless he chose to reveal it to the Viceroy. "Much like a Force Nexus, everyone that travels to this realm will find themselves confronted more by whatever they bring with them rather than clear adversaries on a battlefield or wild beasts to be tamed."

"We have a few minutes still. Do either of you have questions what will soon follow?" It was an opportunity to chat before they conjured the path ahead. They had no cloak demanding they move on schedule. No world-ending crisis to avoid.

 

[Credius Nargath]

Letting out a dry, cold chuckle, the Viceroy of Eriadu looked down at the witch. Though he was far from the same size as perhaps the emperor of the sith empire and his cronies, Credius when suited up was by no means a small or unimpressive sight to behold, certainly not as the romex robes overlaying his armor actually made him look broader than he already was. With a raised hand, the man calmly waved away what the Nightmother seemed to ascertain as veiled threats and insults. "Whatever I seek is knowledge, my most esteemed Nightmother," Again the man let out a chuckle, showing that he was actually teasing her with the title she held. Not because of any disrespect, but his arrogance did not allow him to view her as his equal, let alone his superior within any range of situations, even if it had been proven dearly that she was at least the former and had very much a chance of being the latter as well in many aspects. "So no matter what, I WILL in the end return with something not of this world in the truest sense."

Amused by his own retort, the Marquis of Eriadu had almost overlooked the fact that he wasn't the only one who had approached the Nightmother, as another was being spoken to as well. "Ah...I see, a knight, how quaint," Credius could only nod towards the knight, since that order was largely unknown to him besides its name, even their actions and status within the faction were a bit hazy in the man's eyes. "I suppose you have some sort of purpose to fulfill as well, though I would wonder what your order seeks beyond the veil of realms."

With his hand slightly caressing the family jewel he wore over his armor, Credius nodded towards the Nightmother. "I shall see how the preperations are going, the calculations for this undertaking do interest me."

TAG: [member="Vytal Noctura"] | [member="Djonas Vile"]

 

[Vytal Noctura]

Could [member="Credius Nargath"] seek only to understand the depth of the world around him? Certainly. Would it stop there? Vytal somehow doubted that. After all, if the Viceroy were so inclined toward scholarly pursuits he might well spend more time at the Castle that sat in the distance from where they stood. That he did not belied an ulterior motive -- whether it was personal or nefarious only time would speak true. Perhaps it was sheer arrogance that kept him away. Hopefully he would not fall prey to any negative influences in the Nether curtailing the potential the man might come to work with the Mandragora rather than against them.

"May it be as humble a reward as you say," the Nightmother replied calmly. That he'd sought to goad her did not set the Dathomiri woman off. It wore on her patience dearly, but it would not do to behave as some Sith Lord.

No words fell in response to what Credius offered to Knight Obsidian Master [member="Djonas Vile"]. Vytal entrusted the man able to answer for himself, and to speak of a Knight's interest apart from the Mandragora perspective.

A stray glance fell across the man's jewel which Credius had caressed. Carried on silent winds, a voice called attention to it as more than a bauble; but as spirits were want to do, further clarification did not follow. Was it a jest to them, Vytal wondered? To impart half-truths and hints? Or some spiritual rule not to interfere too heavily in worldly affairs? Obviously not a rule that applied universal as many spirits intervened for better or ill often enough. All the same, she made note of the whisper in case it became of import later.

"By all means, Viceroy." There was nothing secret stowed among the belongings the Mandragora had brought. However, her Sisters and Brothers would not let him examine a particular crate by touch. A verbal explanation of supplies needed to secure their arrival would be given, as well as an offer to demonstrate upon arrival. Not before. It would bode poorly for their expedition if those supplies did not arrive in pristine condition; so at least two would remain 'guarding' it for the time being.

"Five minutes," the Nightmother called out.

She turned and strode back to a place marked by two braziers that had been placed teen feet apart. One hand lifted up to touch the air before her and slowly feel across it out to one side as though an invisible pane of glass stood before the pale woman. "Soon we cross into the endless expanse." This would be the first time she had ever guided a group into the Nether. Previously it had only ever been Pom that had come with her into the realm -- or thrown herself into it expecting Vytal to open the portal out again. Fortune had protected her then. An assembly this large would attract notice. They would need to be swift.

Tags: Open

 

[Acantha Malvern]

Wearing: Obsidian Strike-Type Armour
Vytal Noctura | Credius Nargath | Djonas Vile ​

The Mistress had heard much about the Nightmother, and she found herself intrigued by her beyond explanation. Felurian was experienced in the force, she didn’t know it inside out yet, but she knew what it was capable of. She knew what the benefits would be if you practised it, and she knew of the power you could claim by studying it. The concept of magik, however, was an untouched idea in the young woman’s mind. However, it was an extremely appealing one. When Fela heard of the mission to the Nether, she had jumped at the chance. Not only would she be diving into the deep end of what magik was capable of, but she would also be doing it with someone practised and experienced in it. How could one pass up this opportunity?

Her ship had been delayed, but Ryloth was coming up quickly. By the time they landed, Fela was sure that the group would have already started into the Nether. Perhaps she could catch up? She mused on the negatives and positives of that particular idea as she jogged down the landing ramp and out into the open plains. Fortunately for her, there was no point in mapping them out. After a minute of undisturbed running, Fela spotted three shadows. Plain as day even against the dark horizon.

There were two more bodies joining them on the foray into the Nether, but Fela had never met either of them. The person she was most interested in stood at the head of the group. Pale as moonlight, much like the Mistress herself.

'Apologies, Nightmother. I hope I am not too late.' She had, however, arrived in time to hear the Nightmother’s words of warning. Felurian wasn’t about to take them lightly. Her Mater had often spoken of the Nether as though it were a place to be feared, and anything that could scare a Sith Lord of his power was bound to live up to its reputation. Was she truly prepared to attempt such a feat? Even despite the experienced hands available to teach her and guide her way, an adventure into the Nether was an idea that was never going to sit right with Fela. So, if not now, when? Probably never again. This would be her introduction to all things magik, and if she walked away from its other opportunities to learn about its secrets were rare. She wouldn’t take that risk. Her hands tugged firmly at the top half of her armour, as though it confirmed her self-made resolution.

She was ready.

 

[Djonas Vile]

A sly chuckle escaped Djonas' lips. He looked over to the pale Viceroy. "Call it curiosity." He turned to look back to the Nightmother. "Curiosity and a courtesy. The Nightmother called for assistance and the Knights Obsidian sent me as their representative. I made no hesitation to accept the mission. When the Nightmother calls, it's hard to say no."

Djonas noticed the others gathered, readying themselves for what lay on the other side. He felt prepared, but had no idea what he would face. That gave a little more excitement to the mission. Venturing into the unknown, running into whatever lay in wait for him and the others. Maybe his saberstaff wouldn't be enough to defend himself or the others, he thought. He wouldn't know until they departed.

"I have not been to the other side. Do you have any tips or secrets to share, Nightmother?"

Vytal Noctura Credius Nargath Felurian Malvern ​

 

[Vytal Noctura]

Vytal turned to look over at the pale woman that surfaced. One concerned about how tardy she was to the gathering. "No," she replied calmly, "you are not too late. In fact, you are just in time." Actually she intended to have the portal guarded so others could follow without sealing it. This initial expedition would appear just on the other side of the Other World, so there was little danger a spirit would 'slip' by them.

Meanwhile, Djonas seemed inclined to flatter a Nightmother. Vytal wouldn't say she didn't appreciate it; nor would she confess to it. Sometimes there were indications the Mandragora held a position of authority within the Confederacy and their efforts to supply it with mystical knowledge had not gone unnoticed. Who didn't appreciate being acknowledged? "Your presence is welcome and appreciated," she replied with a slight nod.

"The Nether realm does not conform to what you perceive to be reality," Vytal replied to Vile's request for 'tips or secrets.' "What you will see, hear, touch, smell, and even taste will be nothing more than an illusion. It is a world of magick itself, and conforms itself to the thoughts of those in it. Fortunately, this works in our favor -- initially. There will be ground, gravity, and air. Do not become complacent in how familiar it may seem, however. A roaming spirit can disturb the illusion. Twist it in ways you cannot anticipate. And if you happen to speak to one, never agree to do anything they ask without seeking my counsel." The Nightmother paused to regard those nearby for a moment and let that statement sink in. "The spirit does not need to be malicious in nature for an agreement to have lasting, negative consequences for you."

As a reminder as to the purpose of this assembly, Vytal added, "This expedition is to setup camp on the other side. There will be scouting parties if you wish to explore the nearby regions. Do not stray far. Do you have any questions?" This bought a little more time for some of the newer Witches whom Vytal hoped would attend, actually. Fortunate for them. Perhaps not so fortunate if they were late; the Nightmother would have to remind them of the seriousness and impotance of the Nether in researching magick.

Tag: Djonas Vile | Felurian Malvern | Credius Nargath | Tireya Syvare | Shamira Karuto​

 

[Credius Nargath]

"I see, the knights obsidian...I had no idea you were at the beck and call of our esteemed Nightmother," The Viceroy sneered, all the while nodding towards the Nightmother. "But, than again...she IS a remarkable figure."

His words were lace with bile, his eyes cold and calmas he looked at the knight one more time, before turning his attention to a pair of witches busy with the preperations for the ardeous trip to the nether realm. However, while he deigned himself to be knowledgeable enough in the mysteries of the force, it was hard even for him, to get a real grasp on the techniques, the spells and magicks these Mandragora sisters utilized to similar fashion and with similar proficiency as he would use the arts and horrors of the force through Sith teachings.

A young woman from what it lookedlike, approached the nightmother not soon after. Her presence was...slightly off if anything, but nothing too concerning for the Viceroy of Eriadu, who continued to inspect the various supplies and equipment which had been set up for them, though following Vytal's...demand, he did not peer into things which were guarded by witches and thus off limits to his prying eyes. Hearing the nightmother loudly state the alotted time which remained before the operation would be on its way, Credius walked over to the nightmother, practically ignoring the younger woman which was near her.

"Do you mind if I have KRONOS observe everything which transpires on this end?" He knew the AI would be rather useless within the nether realm, but on this side, it could very well act as a security meassure should things go wrong. "I think bringing it with me might not really aid us in any way, but perhaps here it can be more helpful in regards to the security of this place and the people left behind until our return."

Vytal Noctura | Djonas Vile | Felurian Malvern

 

[Vytal Noctura]

Vytal would not defend a Knight in their place; she thought better of them than that. The Mandragora were part of their order, but also their own. Though the Confederacy of late had sought to pilfer students of the spiritual arts toward field work. It was not a direction with which she heartily approved, but adult men and women were free to find their own way through life. She could not fault them for the opportunities the 'professions' would bring. Nevertheless, such things were a distraction.

There was one field with which only they were suited -- the Nether. They had the knowledge and power to explore it and uncover its secrets. Not the Light Side users of the Force. Not the Dark Side users of the Force. Not those that thought to favor neither end of the spectrum. True, there were those of such schools that practiced "sorcery," but that was the purview of the Mandragora, and they would not halt their exploration and research.

Nor would Vytal refuse to support the rest of the Knights Obsidian, of course. There was balance, which the Nightmother was charged in keeping.

Her eyes shifted to Credius as the Viceroy offered a proposal. "I do not object. The nearby forest is treacherous." Deliberately. It afforded the Castle protection, and provided a worthwhile place to train or study some rather unusual creatures or phenomena.

"It is time," the Nightmother declared. "The portal will remain open and guarded to prevent spirits from passing unbidden. Those that have not arrived can join us." Fortunately, camp would not be far from where the portal would appear on the other side. Safety would not be an issue. Except for those that would be tasked with exploring beyond the perimeters or ensuring its defense.

The Dathomiri woman turned on the spot and strode toward the place where the posts had been placed as a physical reminder where the veil was parted. With both hands lifted overhead, she called out, "May the Triune of the Mandragora watch over us, guide us, and share with us their knowledge of the world beyond worlds. We come as students and explorers that seek to understand the nature of our existence, and what will become of it. May we prove worthy." Green mist began to coil about Vytal's arms until it snaked its way down the length of her body. It swept across the ground, and flared to life as a towering inferno of green flame. When it vanished in an instant, another land was carved onto a pane of reality before them. On the other side of that pane naught but an impassable black void.

The Nightmother's hands lowered as she turned to look back at those assembled. "We depart. Set up camp on level ground and set a surround. We will have visitors before long."

Tag: Djonas Vile | Felurian Malvern | Credius Nargath | Tireya Syvare | Shamira Karuto

 

[Shamira Karuto]

Location: Ryloth – walking up to the meeting place
Clothing: Purple cloak, matching boots, backpack of survival tools
Tags: Djonas Vile | Felurian Malvern | Credius Nargath | Tireya Syvare | Vytal Noctura
Post: #1

​

In less than a week, she had been whisked away from a place that had every inclining to kill her for the powers she possessed, took a ride across a galaxy that she could have never believed would be so big, and stayed in a castle that could touch the clouds. Every moment was one of discovery and learning as more and more new experiences were opened up to her. From the simple act of breakfast being made by one of the metal contraptions to being able to read her books on such a small lightpad. The white skinned woman was seemingly trying to keep her from having to absorb too much too quickly, making sure she stayed well within the caste walls.

This morning was different, however. No simple practice breaking down the walls and barricades that she had built up in her mind. For so long that she had to hide her powers, that their full potential was also being held back by herself. Perhaps with time and training, she’d unlock new and more powerful spells, but for now, just struggling to conjure a medium sized flame wall was enough to get her woozy. Healing was a bit easier. It was a power she had to hide less than her flame, meaning that healing cuts and lacerations was a much easier task.

No, there would be no training this morning. An adventure awaited. Vytal had given the younger witch little to no real explanation on where they would be going. Probably not to cause Shamira another headache, but she did like to know what she was throwing herself into. Apparently they were going to another place. Alien to even the white witch. Though saying something was alien to the redhead wasn’t saying much. The starship that they had rode it on was certainly alien to her mind.

Standing near the back of the group that had assembled together to go to this place, she was able to observe everyone’s expressions and readiness. They all seemed perfectly ready to thrown themselves into this realm of the unknown. Or the endless expanse, as Vytal so called it. Surely it couldn’t be endless. Everything had an end. Even the galaxy that had suddenly opened up in front of Shamira. If where they were going was actually a place, then it would have an end.

Once inside, she didn’t know exactly what Vytal would have her doing. She didn’t even know how important or useful she would be in there. All that was known would be her sticking next to the nightmother’s side the entire time. Hopefully she could be useful there. Or at least useful as an explorer. Or useful in general.

 

[Djonas Vile]

Djonas completely ignored the Viceroy's comments, not feeling up to the task of stooping to his level. He simply listened to the Nightmother's advice on the Netherworld. He took little notes in his head so that he may remember them later on. He didn't expect too much danger, but he was ready for anything.

"I believe I am ready, Nightmother. I will follow your lead and try not to cause any trouble. Try," he joked.

Djoans watched as the Nightmother cast her magic, engulfing her in a green mist then flames. The doorway opened up before her. This was a kind of magic he hadn't seen for many years, though he was not taken aback by it like he was then. The Mandragora dabbled in dark forces, but it was necessary in times like this. He did not question, only tolerated it.

"Let's get it."

Djonas walked forward toward the portal, only slightly wary of it's appearance and what could transpire as he got close. Doorways are both entrances and exits so he kept on his guard in case anything came to their side as he walked through the portal.

Shamira Karuto | Vytal Noctura | Credius Nargath | Felurian Malvern | Tireya Syvare ​

 

[Vytal Noctura]

Vytal strode through the portal and onto the Nether's ground. Through the veil separating the two realms lay an expanse of barren rock dimly lit by an unseen source. The sky above seemed an endless sea of dark clouds that rolled and churned overhead. Whilst all seemed blanketed by darkness, each that set foot in that realm was able to see as clear as a brightly lit day on Ryloth.

"Set camp here. Establish a perimeter and begin to survey the area," the Nightmother instructed those that accompanied the learners and guests. They would not leave here as they came. She had intentions to make this a permanent threshold which certain people might utilize for research purposes. Such a door would not be left open to any that wander by, of course. Even 'secured' a portal left open for all time would only invite disaster.

Her green eyes glowed with energy as she slowly strode forward and began to sweep the area with her gaze. "You asked me what the realm of spirits looked like," the Nightmother called out, referring to Shamira's questions not long hence. "Don't be too disappointed. Appearances are deceiving here."

"It would seem we have attracted notice already. Why should they not be curious why we have come?" A pause followed her comment as Vytal's eyes lingered off to one side. "There are some that look all too eager to meet us loitering nearby. Everyone should take care should they move against us." Almost anyone present might see a few shapes that stirred a short distance away. Some peeked out from behind cover only to slip out of sight, while others stood or floated openly either unafraid or oblivious to sudden guests.

Tag: Djonas Vile | Felurian Malvern | Credius Nargath | Tireya Syvare | Shamira Karuto

 

[Credius Nargath]

Having made sure that his armor was fine, the viceroy of eriadu tapped KRONOS on top of the orb, motioning it to stay near the portal in case an emergency would occur. When that was done, he followed the group into the void beyond the portal, only to be rather surprised that the Netherrealm was not entirely as he had thought it to be. Dark clouds packed the skies, barren rock provided stable footing. It looked more like an uninhabited planet with a toxic atmosphere than a supposedly horrifying place of untold mystery.

Almost chuckling, the Sith Lord calmly listened to the nightmother ordering her associates to set up camp and to establish a perimeter. It was rather amusing to see just how unfazed everyone seemed to be, but then again, there were already so many strange things, planets and people within the galaxy, that just another barren wasteland wasn't much of a shocker. However, Credius did feel a strange cold coming from the jewel he was carrying upon his chest, which did unnerve him a bit. After all, he was not all to keen on having to deal with the contents of the jewel in a place where the dead could roam freely.

"So...apart from some hardly threatening apparitions," The viceroy pointed towards the ones that showed themselves properly, while taking in consideration the fact that the nightmother had mentioned there wre others hiding from sight. "What's on the agenda?"

Tag: Vytal Noctura | Djonas Vile | Shamira Karuto | Felurian Malvern

 

[Vytal Noctura]

Vytal turned to look over her shoulder at Credius. "My Lord Nargath, if it is excitement you seek you have only to venture thirteen paces unaccompanied to your right. I assure you, the only thing you'll leave disappointed with is not enjoying the calm before the storm."

She turned in place to regard the man, and those beside him, for a moment. "As you have come here in a controlled fashion, it seemed generally uninteresting. Consider yourself fortunate. My first time entering the Nether realm was of my own choosing, but with no guide. Not appreciating the true nature of this place my thoughts sent me spiraling into a bottomless abyss. Every so often I could form solid ground only to be set upon my spirits all too eager to claim a physical vessel for themselves."

A pause allowed the Nightmother to turn her gaze to those spirits that watched them at that moment. "They almost never succeed, but they always try. If you were cast adrift, consumed with a singular purpose in this undying land, would you not? A means to escape. To see your will made manifest among the living. This is why years hence when so many vanished into the Deep they did not return. It was only that I was a Nightsister and knew ever a fraction of what I know today that kept me alive."

With a smile, the glowing green eyes of the Nightmother turned back to those that had followed. "I assure you, appearances are deceiving in this realm. Every tale you have ever heard about monsters that haunt the living... They're out there. Waiting for you."

A Sister drifted close and spoke in a soft voice about preparations before she slipped away.

"The camp is secure. If you care to explore, now is the time. Memorize this place. If you become lost think of it -- or of me. If it helps, squeeze your eyes shut and pray that you return here; such is the simpliest and most natural way to describe how to venture from one place to another in this land."

Tag: Djonas Vile | Felurian Malvern | Credius Nargath | Tireya Syvare | Shamira Karuto | Scàth Mhaolàin | Aisha | Alluria Ivalice

 

[Scàth Mhaolàin]

Kneeling at the edge of the perimeter, Scàth remained almost entirely still for every movement within this realm identified you as either predator or prey. Eyes closed, the only thing that could be seen moving was his mouth, the braids of his beard moving slowly as he whispered a variety of entreatments, threats and offers to the denizens of the realm he knew as ‘The Dead Forest.’ While his tutorship under the Nightmother had informed him that the realm was not merely the otherworld spoken of in his Sayormi legends, old habits died hard.

It was these spirit paths that had brought him to the Mandragora and he had not walked them since and as such, Scàth was extremely eager to once again dwell within the space between worlds. The opportunities such a pilgrimage offered were only matched by the dangers, but this was nothing new for the Sayormi. In comparison to the hunting beasts of the Shadowlands of his home, some of the spirits were merely impish tricksters, offering minor pranks and laughs as the worst they could do.

But not all.

His warding chant complete, he opened his eyes, viewing his surroundings with a wary eye. The outline of objects and individuals here seemed to constantly be shifting, as if they were the dreams and the denizens here were the dreamers. They had caught a variety of spirits attentions, but none that were familiar to Scàth. When he had last come here, his every step had been shadowed by the revenants of his tribe, their eyes burning with corpselight as they stood their eternal vigil.

Reaching into one of the leather pouches about his person, he drew a traditional warding glyph of the forest-people on the ground before returning to the main group. With the marking placed, he did his best not to have his thoughts dwell to strongly upon his home, for in this realm it was thoughts and emotions that shaped ones surroundings and the last thing that he wanted was to accidentally summon the multitude of spirits that haunted the Shadowlands of Kashyyyk.

Tag: Djonas Vile Felurian Malvern Credius Nargath Tireya Syvare Shamira Karuto Aisha Alluria Ivalice Vytal Noctura

 

[Vytal Noctura]

As Sisters and Brothers worked, the Nightmother strode toward what would be the edge of camp. Her green eyes peered off into the deep that surrounded them. Before her seemed to be naught but empty expanse with spirits loitering elsewhere in watch. All around no sound except what was made by those that had come from Ryloth could be heard. There was no wind to stir up any dust. No sun to bring warmth to the body. No plants to soothe a troubled mind -- though a few saplings might have begun to pop up off to one side.

Slowly Vytal lifted her left hand before her, palm stretched out before the emptiment. A moment passed. Then the sharp snap of her fingers cut through the deafening silence.

In literally the blink of an eye the entire world changed. Rather than standing on open ground, the camp now resided on a large island suspended in an invisible medium. All around them were isles of varying shapes of ground that had once butted upon against their own. Then, if this impossible change was not enough, the many isles floating around them -- not all level with their own -- were mixed together as one might a deck of cards. There was no sensation of movement of their own firmament; but it might strain one's eyes to attempt following the shifting of the rest until they settled seconds later.

Sharp eyes would have caught sight of bulky, shadowy figures emerging out of nothingness and having lunged toward the Nightmother and those behind her before the shuffling occurred. Instead their paths took them to yet another plane that floated on the opposite side and a bit higher. Their progress had gone from one to the next as though they were still joined together, but no longer in the same way as they had been moments ago.

Vytal smiled to herself. The maze should keep those spirits occupied long enough.

Tag: Djonas Vile | Felurian Malvern | Credius Nargath | Tireya Syvare | Shamira Karuto | Scàth Mhaolàin | Aisha | Alluria Ivalice

 

[Credius Nargath]

As the strangeness, the vast emptiness of the void beyond the veil of mortality and sanity was being lifted, Credius could only feel impressed. Both in a bit of a shock, but also in awe of the very endless nature the netherrealm seemed to possess, that very place was capable of completely overwhelming the Sith Lord if he wasn't...A trained and masterful Sith to begin with and because of that, he could manage it all, despite the surprise, his stoic and arrogant nature managed to keep the upper hand. Yet with every passing second, he could feel something was off... something was hungering, demanding these spectres, these inhabitants of the netherrealm to come closer or for him to get closer to them.

He listened carefully to the Nightmother's words as she spoke of the perils which were haunting beyond the veil of protection she and her sisters had put up to maintain some semblance of order and stability in the abyss of chaos that was the netherrealm. "I see," His response was calm, slightly hollow, his right hand casually reached for the jewel on his chest as his eyes peered through the helmet's HUD into the distance the Nightmother spoke of, hardly even hearing the words that came after her warning, her explanation lost to the cloud of thoughts which seemed to blanket his mind. "Perhaps...perhaps...I shall indeed find knowledge beyond the point of safety."

One step forward, his foot sinking in the new terrain created by the Nightsisters and their leader, a mystical, illusion of a better place, surrounding by the neverending void of desolation. For a moment the Sith Lord was distracted by this phenomena, quietly admiring the magicks the Nightmother seemed to possess and wield, thinking with but a few years of more wisdom and dedication her name may ring through the galaxy as the 'mothers' of old.

While the nightmother had put up the barriers, while the strange nightbrother had put up the wards, Credius started walking to the edge of the camp, taking off his helmet, Blue lines forming like veins upon and underneath his skin, his eyes turning from cold and calm silver into a bloodred crimson, the kyber crystals on his forearms started to pulsate profoundly in rythm with the netherrealm's chaotic nature, the jewel on his chest emanating an eerie, hungering glow. "This is it, is it not? The one place where you can sate your hunger for them to your heart's content?"

Whisps of unnatural, inexplicable dark energy seemed to be escaping the jewel on the sith lord's chest as he came closer to the large, moving shadows at the edge of the Nightmother's boundaries she had set up. Each whisp of smoke slowly starting to grow bigger and taking shape the closer Credius came to the edge of the encampment and the closer he came to those writhing shadows. "Yes...yes...I must have it, I must know it...show me the secrets that you hold," Feverish and hollow were the words coming out of the Sith lord's mouth, as if drawn to some unseen force, his eyes fixated on the mass of spirits writhing outside the barriers. The whisps now almost fully recognisable as tortured spirits themselves, gathering closer and closer to Credius, while a sudden stream of purple and black smoke erupted from the jewel, a deep, sinister chuckle emanating from the smoke as it started to bellow out of the jewel, which pulsated faster and more violently with it's red light.

"So close, feed me...feed the jewel and all you seek will be revealed..."

Tag: Djonas Vile | Felurian Malvern | Vytal Noctura | Tireya Syvare | Shamira Karuto | Scàth Mhaolàin | Aisha | Alluria Ivalice