Templestone Congregation [TheSithOrder]

[Darth Grimoire]

TEMPLESTONE, KRAYISS II

Spoiler

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3pVxx6WfziU

Grimoire, dressed in her countess's long dark purple gown with a low neck, sauntered over to the apse and open balcony that protruded from the side of her dark tower at the center of her newly forged domain Templestone. The hot winds of Krayiss II meet her entrance onto the balcony. Grimoire's golden eyes surveyed the urban sprawl around her domain. Howling kraujasisqas, who had made the top her tower their home, flew in the night about the starry skies. The moonlight joined with the stars to bath the porcelain skin of the Sith Count in an eerie luminescence. Tonight would be the unveiling of her domain, and her proper introduction to the new Sith Order that had emerged during her expeditions with [member="Velok the Younger"] and [member="Nyra Mazul"]. She had been arms-length in her integration, but, with the end of the rebellion and the foundation of her domain under the patronage of the Order - it was time she revealed herself completely to her Sith Kindred.

Just was the rationale of the grand congregation and ball she had summoned to Templestone. The ball would be held at the base of her Countess's Tower. Turning away from the balcony edge Grimoire departed to the repulsor-lift that acted as the entrance to her private chambers. Passing through she paused for a moment and stared at a miniature obelisk, a relic from Azazoth, she kept on her desk. She though of her mother, Darth Hauntruss. Then her eyes cut from the relic and she continued onward.

Travelling down the shaft of the tower, Grimoire exited to the large base hall of the Countess's Tower. A large obsidian stone and marble hall decorated in a vaulted ceiling and blade like columns. Beneath the members of the Sith Order and the urban elites of Templestone had gathered. Making her grand entrance the Count of Templestone entered and gestured for the servants to calm to crowd.

"My dark kindred. In this hall, in this domain I call Templestone. I bid you all refuge from the galaxy and the heresies that plot our demise. In this domain and in me, you are welcome - always." Grimoire shouted to the large gathering in a commanding tone. "Now revel my Sith brethren, revel in the victory in freeing our homelands. And revel in the reconquest to come!"

Grimoire picked a silver glass goblet from a tray and raised it in toast.

"To this Order and to the beginning of a new long night!"

Spoiler

[member="Neelig Waawat"] [member="Darth Abyss"] [member="Siyndacha Aerin"] [member="Darth Raxis"] [member="Jaryn Starkiller"] [member="Darth Ophidia"] [member="Mala Fost"] [member="Darth Carnifex"] [member="Darth Venefica"] [member="Anaya Fen"] ([member="Calina Ovmar"], I guess she can come too >_>)

 

[Niysha]

Over the last couple of months of Niysha's life, she had gone from being an unwelcome vagrant who everyone took to be blind and helpless to a Sith apprentice. This in no way improved her quality of life, as that time had been filled with treks through icy wastelands, being forced into naval confrontations, physicially and verbally assaulted by the least likely man to kill her in the Order, entanglements with abominations of the Force that her mind could not comprehend, and days of relentless study without rest. The fact that she had a place to lay her head at night was very little consolation when everything she did was still life or death, only now there was a bipolar maniac who sometimes claimed to be her mentor calling the shots.

It was nice to be able to go a few hours without any of that nonsense.

Sith weren't normally social creatures, as far as Niysha had seen. Generally they only showed up in the same place when they wanted something of each other. Chances were this was one Sith's attempt to flaunt their wealth in order to intimidate their rivals while the other Sith attended to find weaknesses in her defenses. Niysha gave not a single damn about any of that. She'd been mostly left alone with this whole "Sith Order" thing, largely only interacting with [member="Darth Ignus"]. This was not a rival. Niysha had to be a player in the game in order to have rivals, and she very simply wasn't.

For the little Miraluka, it was just a time to relax. She didn't have anything fancy to dress up in to make an impression; simple, featureless black robes made up almost all of her wardrobe. She didn't have any artifacts or indications of vast riches. She didn't have any servants or attendants. It would have been painfully simple to confuse her for the help, if she hadn't arrived on this nowhere planet in tow of an established Sith in good standing. For now, she waited outside Leos' shuttle while he finished getting ready. Honestly, the Sithling was surprised he managed to get anything at all done, with how much work he put into his appearance.

She didn't understand the appeal, but then, how could she?

The building that loomed in the distance was of absolutely no consequence to a Miraluka. The monsters guarding it, on the other hand, tickled the edges of her Sight in an unnerving way she hadn't experienced since Kyrikal. They weren't powerful, or even really dangerous, but the creatures were just wrong enough to make her uncomfortable. She had an inkling that tonight was going to involve an awful lot of discomfort on her part. There were going to be a lot of Sith auras here, and most would not be as pleasant as her master's.

 

[Khaldun]

Sith parties how long has it been since he'd been to one Khaldun thought. This brings up the memory of a time where Ludo kressh got drunk and threw one of his slave off a balcony. The point is expect death no sith party is complete without it. Stuck in this thought he didn't notice the time was late a began boarding his ship. Another thought struck him he had not prepared a gift this wouldn't do searching his ship he found his old sword thousands of years old his first creation as a child. "this should do nicely".

Finding a landing spot a pain aside the city was something to marvel true sith ingenuity at work. The city looked nice the tower looked equally nice. He also found it quaint the party was to be on Krayiss two Khaldun studied here a one point when it held great knowledge. walking up to the entrance he took sometime to look himself over. He picked out something that was common for sith of his time covered in gold was not his style for normal wear but this was a party. another added feature was his cane he'd found it hard to walk after his sleep.

He'd arrived just as the host had started her speech she looked beautiful to say the least. Her speech was one he'd heard before welcomes and a promise of war just the sith way he supposed. he waited till her speech was complete to approach her with his gift in hand. "madam thank you for inviting us into your home i brought you a gift to return this kindness". he knelt down and presented the blade "the blade is a few thousand years old and has seen a few battles but all in all a fine addition to a collection". standing up after handing off the blade he'd excused himself as he wanted to see who had came to this party the first to come to his notice was a blind women he thought he'd seen somewhere before.

[member="Niysha"] @Grimoire

 

[Teynara Jeralyr]

[member="Grimoire"] | [member="Niysha"] | [member="Khaldun"]

Wealth and power stood present, flaunted for all to observe and envy, an expression of prestige and taste, for all to bear witness. The Sith had been called, required to be present to observe the culmination of work accomplished in quiet secrecy: the creation of a dark stronghold far more resplendent than anything the Sith had accomplished in decades. They had clung to ancient Temples and forgotten tombs, steered metallic ships in the cold vacuum above, brooded over lost territory and fuelled righteous grudge, looking ever to vengeance.

This...this was progress. Not a reflection of long-lost glories, no shadow of an empire crushed into dust: this was something that had been built, something that had been shaped and crafted. So rare was it to see the Sith turning their hands towards something that was not designed solely for destruction or oppression. This was not a place of death: no, it was a place being breathed into new life.

Such an momentuous thing called for ceremony, of a sorts: a party, drawing Sith together from all over the galaxy to congregate in one place and relax their cares for but a heartbeat. If they can. There had been events before: grand balls with flowing ballgowns and much drink; feasts and festivals designed to create a sense of unity among beings who so often worked at cross purposes, seeking ascendency even at the expense of their kind. Whether this night will end absent bloodshed yet remains to be seen.

Their hostess reminded him of a friend long-lost to the realms of the living: pale-skinned, darkness swirling around her like an old cloak, familiar and comfortable, each breath tainted by it. The gold eyes that stared out from beneath those fragile lids were threateningly lethal, her words sibilant and yet strong, direct in a way that showed command and confidence. A dangerous being, this one. The kind of person that might save the Sith from themselves, or lead them to their end. Asset or threat?

Only time would tell. For the moment, all that might be done was to embrace her hospitality and observe which way the chips might fall.

Others had come, many others. Tirdarius had noted in amusement that the majority of those present dressed in the drab dark colours that so often were preferred among their Order: embracing of the darkness, symbolic and often far too literal. Even he had succumbed to such: a fitted suit of similar cut to a uniform, collar tight at the neck, knee-high boots well-polished, lightsaber hanging from the sash that wrapped around his waist. We must present a consistent face even to our own kind, no?

The symbolism was appropriate, though. The darkness here was unquestionable. So rarely did so many of their number gather in one place without blood being spilt: the invasion of a world, the subjugation of a population, a dangerous ritual performed. There was no escaping that tonight, but as dangerous as such a thing might be to the mind, there was unity in it: here, all were part of something greater than their individual egos, called to witness a shadow manifesting as a sentient being, showing off an achievement that might herald something new.

Whether the Sith would embrace this would be tested this evening. Blood will come either way. Their own, perhaps, or that of those who would be trampled beneath the boots of those that stood present now. We will see which way the wind blows soon enough.

 

[Darth Abyss]

Darth Abyss did what he could do best, blending in the background and observing rather than interacting. Sith were known for being paranoid, suspicious of any move others make. Sith were also known for their love of betrayal and envy. These traits often made them spill tge blood of each other, and a day like this was a perfect scenario for it to happen. Not that he planned to spill blood himself, not yet at least, but there was high chance of conflict when so many sith shared a room, and watching who comes out on top would give him a good impression of the other players that played this never ending and lethal game of chess.

The hood of his black, ragged robe was hanging low, hiding most of his mask and only revealing only the lower part of his face. His attire was simple, no rings or other representation of wealth, the only thing that slight stood out was his cybernetics right leg. Normally he would've added some simple but imposing pieces of armor around his shoulders and upper body, but he wanted to reveal as less about him as possible. After all a smart sith would always hide his strength in the presence of potential enemies.

He brought no servants with him, but he still had one of his man hidden in the crowd, simply for security reasons. Even to him it was obvious that it was simply paranoia, but couldn't allow himself to take any chances. Only because he always had been prepared and cautious he was still alive today, and he wasn't planning on dieing any time soon.

With soundless steps he moved between the lords, knights and acolytes, his eyes always looking to the ground and his strength in the force damped to only a fracture of what it actually was. Every second he was observant, keeping an open ear for anything he could steal out peoples conversations. Something that might seemed trivial today would one day maybe decided between live and death.

[member="Tirdarius"] [member="Khaldun"] [member="Niysha"] [member="Grimoire"]

 

[Darth Carnifex]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1M6-vtj-2hU​

Templestone, Krayiss II

A ship sliced through the clear night sky, a blot against the light of the two moons that hung idyllic against the backdrop of blackness and stars. The arid wind rolled off of the ship's hull as it came to idle above an empty landing platform, the gear descending from its underside as it began to slowly descend with methodical grace and precision. There was a slight lurching as the ship came to its final rest, but the gear stabilized and the boarding ramp began to descend. The ship was large enough to seat a good twenty people within its spacious confines, but from the fog of hydraulic steam emerged but one individual. A cloak of coarse zeyd-cloth hung from his muscular frame like a reaper's shroud, and a cuirass of ornate durasteel was firmly fastened across his torso front and back. Around his waist was affixed a leather belt containing many pouches, some of them empty and some of them filled with coins and other assorted trinkets.

At his side hung a curved lightsaber, his only weapon for he did not need an elaborate suit of armor to attend this assembly, this congregation. He was well enough a killer even without a physical weapon, for the Dark Side of the Force was his ally and he wielded it with such deftness and mastery that there were not many alive today who could stand against his might. Dark, bold eyes scanned the immediate surroundings before lazily following the tower's rise which elicited a chuckle from behind the full beard that sprung forth from his lower face. As he approached the entrance he spied several other Sith, most of them young bloods whom he had not heard of or known prior to this little get together. No doubt there would be some of whom he was familiar, perhaps even intimately so, but he said nothing to anyone and continued on with long purposeful steps inside.

The interior of the tower's primary forum was, as expected, magnificent in its design. The architecture hearkened back to the olden days of the yore with its marble flooring, high vaunted ceiling, and blade-like columns. The Dark Lord's head could be clearly seen from any vantage point, he towered over the majority of the Sith and noblemen assembled, and all those in attendance tended to give him a wide berth as he stalked through the crowds. He only stopped once he had reached the nexus of the crowd, his head tilted upward to witness the arrival of [member="Grimoire"] herself dressed in an immaculate purple gown that accented her porcelain skin.

Her voice, dark and commanding, echoed throughout the chamber. "My dark kindred. In this hall, in this domain I call Templestone. I bid you all refuge from the galaxy and the heresies that plot our demise. In this domain and in me, you are welcome - always. Now revel my Sith brethren, revel in the victory in freeing our homelands. And revel in the reconquest to come!"

She raised a glass in salute, and many others in the crowd mimic'd the gesture. "To this Order and to the beginning of a new long night!" A cheer rose upon through the crowd, but the Dark Lord was not among them. That wasn't to say that he didn't agree with his words, he wholeheartedly did, but he wasn't in the mood for obtuse and vocal camaraderie although he did mutter a "Hear Hear" under his breath as the final cheers rang out and died down. His real priority at the moment was to find something to wet his whistle, and he doubted that they had a massive supply of absinthe ready and waiting just for him. He'd have to settle with something more mundane.

C'est la vie.

 

[Figure In White]

Fools. So many fools.

Yes, he'd come. In this case, it was out of an abundance of caution. He could not yet let others know of his place within the Reformation. It was his brainchild, worked out with the help of the woman he loved, and that would result in him being accosted by those here. [member="Niysha"] would also know this, as she was smart enough to reason such a thing out. Being here was to maintain appearances, but it did also serve the function of allowing them to relax for a while. Under the circumstances, he was certain that both of them could use a break. They'd been running all over the galaxy ever since he'd taken her as his apprentice.

Striding off the shuttle in a different garb from normal, he approached Niysha and touched her arm lightly to start her walking. He strode past her, taking the lead as they approached the somewhat impressive structure at the heart of the new city. Definitely something he'd expect from his fellow Sith. The fact that this place had been constructed so swiftly was a marvel of its own. He'd spent a decent amount of time on Krayiss II prior to their invasion of the Caldera and combat with the Jedi. The planet was nothing but dust at that time, and now it had a burgeoning cityscape.

"Kraujasisqa," he aid, noting the creatures above. "I didn't see any of them last time I was here. I believe they see in a similar fashion to how you do."

They were curious beasts, for certain. Not particularly something he wanted in his repertoire of creatures, however. Their volatile nature, and their matriarchal living situation, would not bend well to his efforts, even with his skills in manipulating creatures minds. They'd likely end up breaking free and mauling his other other creatures and possibly himself. Too risky. Besides, they were ugly as sin and he didn't have the facilities to hold them. Yet. Soon he would, once he finished the construction of his bestiary. Then he could house every creature he could get his hands on. Until then, however, these and others would have to wait.

They entered and were soon greeted by the sight of many others. [member="Darth Carnifex"]. [member="Darth Abyss"]. [member="Grimoire"] was the host so she was there. There were some new faces, too: [member="Khaldun"] and [member="Tirdarius"]. He knew neither of them, and so kept a wary eye open them in an indirect fashion. Unknowns were dangerous. Even if this was supposed to be a relaxing event, unknowns could prove a threat. They caught the tail end of what Grimoire said, and he nodded his head in agreement, but didn't speak up. Instead, he searched for a seat and settled upon it. Niysha could join him or mingle, that was up to her.

 

[Swafty]

They will know me alright, they will know me oh so well...

He came here to show himself, knowing he can use his charms to make a good first impression that would impression that will give him aid in the coming days. He knew he would be a odd one here indeed, but he held great trust in himself that he can use this special moment to do something for himself. But now it is time to stop thinking about this trip, he charmed h is way here but who has to know?! It is time to act, not think!

Arriving at the area he was alone , he tried to move without being expected, trying to not be noticed by any soul, well not THESE anyway. He arrived in a odd choice of a attire, a long, red robe with the sleeves cut off, he was not armed with any weapons or armor.. Spending his time, being amazed by the sights of the area, admiring it every stop he took when his left knee was causing him pain. Besides the fact of him trying to seem hidden, he was noticed by many, due to his great height and odd choice of attire, he was annoyed by this. Some others tried to share words as he speed walked, he would ignore them, keeping the same stern, almost angry look on his face. But now, it was time to make a greeting that will never be forgot!

As he entered, a smug smile would be on his face as he looked from face to face, knowing none of these people he stood up straight and nodded his head to them all with the same smug smile.

 

[Niysha]

The idea that the little specks of wrongness at the edges of Niysha's Sight had anything in common with her was unsettling, which of course was just setting the mood for later. There would be a ton of chances to feel uncomfortable and singled out tonight. No need to rush into that. [member="Darth Ignus"]' aura was overpowering, as always, so it was easy to follow through this nonsense speck of terror. A bunch of people living under an autocrat whose entire self-image relied on darkness and kept flying death-beasts who saw their souls was not a recipe for a happy civilization.

As the two of them neared the gathering of a dozen or more Sith, Niysha's Sight became much more blurred. It had to, to prevent sensory overload. Too many auras all screaming for attention, packed in together like a barrel of live grenades...it was enough to give her a headache. Whenever she saw any aura that was too dangerous - too painful to perceive for longer than a few moments - Niysha immediately directed her attention elsewhere. This wound up happening a lot. Several new Sith, weaklings like her, were painfully easy to point out and weren't even markedly unpleasant to See. Others, like Leos, were much more...distinct. Don't stare into a fire for too long, or your eyes will hurt. Same basic idea with Force Sight.

It was all she could do to keep from giving anything more than the barest of attention to one specific...entity. She hesitated to call it a man. Every ounce of her not at all inconsiderable focus was directed at never, ever finding out more about it. Him? It didn't matter. The longer she could keep from finding out, the better off she'd be. Sith weren't pleasant people, but very few of them were walking tragedies given physical form.

Niysha followed her master, of course. It was what she'd always done, and she exactly what she'd endeavored to continue doing here. He was her shelter in this storm. Not from the Force or the attacks of others; Niysha assumed that she was beneath the notice of anyone terribly important simply by dint of being inconsequentially weak. No, Ignus was her shelter from the party. She was terrible at socializing.

She had no idea who the popular holostars of the month were, and she absolutely couldn't dance.

 

[Darth Grimoire]

Grimoire revelled in the cheers, see took a long sip of the crimson tinted wine from her silver goblet before returning to a tray. She watched the crowd with her golden orbs. Sith gathered together, her eyes narrowed, some she recognised while others would be new to her. No matter. The purpose was to show her domain and her work thus far. Taking a few steps down from the staircase from which she made her speech she was abruptly interrupted by a red-skinned unknown figure, [member="Khaldun"]. An ancient Sith trueblood. Grimoire's eyes widened and wicked smile drew across her lips. The red-skin presented an ancient sword and presented it as a gift. Grimoire's amazement was quickly forced back into the depths behind a bewitching glare.

Grimoire bent over and touched his arms guiding him to rise, "Please my kindred, you kneel to no one. It is we who ride the heritage of your ancestors that should bow to you in reverence." Grimoire paused for a moment and thought what [member="Siyndacha Aerin"] would think of her if she saw her now with her courtly platitudes. But, such was necessary. "Your gift shall be a treasure I keep for generations. Thank you."

Then another face drew near. One that she knew, and knew well. The dark and brooding visage of the black dread lord himself. [member="Darth Carnifex"], an old compatriot of her mother's and self-styled uncle, made his appearance to Grimoire. Grimoire smiled at the old Sith Lord and at the same time gestured for her new sith trueblood friend to join in receiving Carnifex.

"Uncle, always a pleasure." ​Grimoire hissed with glee opening her arms wide in a mimicking embrace before drawing her arms near and conducting a short bow. "It has been too long since we have seen each other. I trust your kingdom holds well, give your kin my regards."

Off in the distance, by the corner of her eye she spotted [member="Darth Ignus"] and a quiet blind girl, [member="Niysha"], sat together. She gave Ignus a short nod and then her golden orbs trained on the blind girl. A sort moment of fascination came across Grimoire, she then looked back to Ignus and smiled. Turning back to Carnifex and the sith trueblood, Grimoire gestured for them to follow her as she caroused with the crowd. She could feel the darkness of the Sith, being a product of her mother she was greatly sensitive to the dark , it feed her intoxication. Grimoire revelled in the pit of blackness that brewed at the base of her tower.

"A fine display of gathered kindred." Grimoire said. "There is hope for our home-worlds yet."

 

[Khaldun]

Khaldun was touched by the kind words diplomatic as they may be. He'd decide to follow her seeing it as a chance to meet other sith. If there was a way for him describe [member="Darth Carnifex"] it was lost on him power radiated off him like no other he'd known he found himself unable to look him in the eyes nor attempt talk. the same could be said for many sith in the room as they walked around more powerful people came to his attention. he'd seen a blind girl talking to what he'd assumed was her master. just like the last person [member="Darth Ignus"] radiated power this began making him feel weak.

It had been a few weaks since he awoke preserving himself to all of the power he'd had it didn't come back. he thought it was just fatigue but now here at the party clarity struck him it's not coming back all the power he had was lost he was to start anew like a newborn. inner rage began to build up but just as quickly as it came he leashed gaining control on his anger.

he continued walking around with the host hoping no one felt his weakness. [member="Grimoire"] was a sigh to see she fit in and made sith feel comfortable a impressive. "my dear i have to say all this is impressive you show off your wealth and power with elegance and cunning". a compliment but a true one she had gotten sith across the galaxy to gather and gained supporters among them with her speech. this party would be an interesting one.

[member="Niysha"]

 

[Swafty]

Drew would have a uneasy feeling as he walked the sidelines, trying to remain unnoticed by sticking to himself, eyeballing the higher ups and the ones more powerful then him.

He would feel weak, insignificant, like he did not fit there are all. I mean, what kind of first impression was this? He was gonna be the one that mattered here, but look what happened now! He found himself looking at the attire of others then at his, he knew he would stick out with his odd choice of an attire, this one was of the reasons why he wore it to stick out to people, but he was getting attention from the wrong people. He thought his great size would also make him look strong, that also gave him attention, but from the wrong people! He would go on, paying no attention to where he was going, as he was focused thinking about his situation. He knew all these idiots were just paying attention to the wrong people, he was going to become the highlight of the meeting, he was going to be known about how superior he was to the rest of these dogs!

Not paying attention to where he was walking, he bumped into the shoulder of another fresh blood, knocking her down. Drew would catch himself on his left leg, the issue was he putting to much weight on his knee. Being in great pain since his landing, he grind his teeth and say loudly under his breath "Idiot!" as he lifted himself up with his other legs strength and turned, and trying to not show his pain as he closed his mouth shut and said in a low voice "M-my fault." he turned behind him with his eyes wide, nervous looking. He saw some fresh bloods with his eyes on him, and he saw the person he hit with his shoulder with a angry look on their face. Knowing it was just best to try to escape the situation, he walked off pushing some people out of his way as he just tried to kill off all the attention at him.

Having walked off with eyes still on him, he felt his stomach drop as he knew he was making a bad impression, he was going to look like a idiot, just some person who is clumsy! He would try to become unnoticed again, but some eyes still stuck watching him with dirty looks. He felt like this was the end, there was no chance to come back from such a mistake he has made on his behalf.

 

[Teynara Jeralyr]

The energies in the room stirred and swirled, a torrent that blew through the elegant room with all the subtlety of a hurricane, a heady brew of emotion and tempestuous charge that electrified the nerves and yet wore against them through repeated exposure. So many Sith drew the Dark Side without conscious desire, an involuntary summoning that invited it to linger, the slivers of insight it usually offered drowned out the way a whisper might be negated in a crowded, noisy room. It coalesced within some more strongly than others - the presence of [member="Darth Carnifex"] had exemplified that much, the man gorged with so much energy, it was a surprise that he did not simply explode.

Others wore their presences more subtly: their hostess, [member="Grimoire"] carried a muddied, tainted presence, darkness shot through with surges of strange energy, warped in a way that Tirdarius had rarely observed before. [member="Darth Abyss"] kept his energies more tightly controlled, drawn in such that they might have been all be invisible, if you did not know what to look for. So many among them carried the Force in such a casual fashion, it might simply have been a cloak drawn about the shoulders, an affectation of convenience and nothing more. And yet beneath such facades, there is depth of emotion stronger than a casual observer might imagine.

Take that Miralukan girl, seated close to a Mirialan: the areas of her face left untouched by her blindfold spoke of wonderment at the presence of the others, something she had no doubt never experienced in such quantity. And yet her own energies were focused upon the taller man of pale-green skin that sat close to her. Had he been able to see them, the Sith Lord would have undoubtedly accused her of making eyes at the boy - the gentle infatuation seemed clear enough.

Others were similarly restless: the Pureblood speaking with Grimoire appeared engaged by her, charmed perhaps by her power, her manner. There might indeed be something there, he thought with an amused smile curving his lips. There was anger in the room, too: a gentle undercurrent emanating from a small group of younger Sith, Acolytes in all probability, directed at another that was slinking away, his thoughts projecting fear and anxiety. Someone who hopes to make an impression, and succeeds spectacularly, only to provide the wrong one.

If death was on the cards for any at this moment, this one would likely top the list. Prey among their predators rarely survives.

The Sith Lord glided through the crowds in the smooth fashion that Silencia had taught him so many years ago: to blend in with the multitude inconspicuously, but never allowing familiarity with them. Be among them, but stand apart, so that they never know who they truly observe. The boy continued to stumble, his aura in the Force radiating horror, confusion, bewilderment. All the nervous energy of one who has no discipline within his emotions. Such beings were dangerous, but not for the reasons they invariably hoped.

"Get your fear under control, boy," he said softly, leaning down to whisper in the younger man's ear as he closed on him, a pale hand gripping [member="Drew Diysent"]'s shoulder with a firmness that was meant to impart a touch of sincerity. "You do not stand in a pack of hungry Akk Dogs and signal to them without expecting to be pounced upon and devoured," Tirdarius continued, his tone heated but low enough that he would not be overheard. "The only impression you make with such a display is that feeding time is here."

 

[Swafty]

Who does he think he is?

As soon as he heard the words, a hurricane of thoughts went through his head, who is this man? Why is he touching me? Does he have a death wish? Who is staring at me? Am I getting kicked out? Do they wanna fight?! All these thoughts going to his head, all of which were negative. Hearing the mans voice, he knew it was a man older then him, maybe a higher up or one of the stronger looking ones? He turned his head to meet the man, his eyes were in shock for a second but calmed down and he had a small grin on his face, faked but he thought he could charm the man with his charm and his smarts.

Some attention was still on him, them watching curiously of what just happened. Some looked away, figuring it was time to stop. Drew's left eye got stern, and a small grin went on his side of his face as he turned to the left to see the man. He would say in a low, nervous sounding almost silent whisper, "My mistake, they do seem to have the smarts of dogs also." Soon, his voice would shift to a more confident sounding voice as he continued, "It seems I was lost in my thoughts, may I ask what is your name?" he would turn fully and put his left hand out, he would have a more confident look on his face as he did this.

All while this was happening, in his thoughts a even bigger fury of questions ran through his head. Am I screwed? I can charm him if I try. Who is this old man?! Who does he think he is?! How dare he talk to someone like me, I bet he is not even a higher up! As this happened, a couple more eyes would turn to them, most of which were returning eyes and some new ones.

....I am screwed aren't I?

 

[Darth Carnifex]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aY7LITuO4sk​

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The Count's Tower, Templestone - Krayiss II

Carnifex had detached himself from the main congregation in search of a drink when [member="Grimoire"] sauntered up to him with a Pureblood, [member="Khaldun"], trailing not far after her. It was rare to see such one of them waltzing around the galaxy these days, with the last most notable one that came to his mind being the trickster Disciple. Grimoire opened her arms wide in a mock embrace before gracefully bowing as she came within his immediate vicinity, and he returned the gesture with a more authoritative salute as he balled his right hand into a fist and pounded it against the metal cuirass that hugged his broad muscular chest.

"The pleasure is all mine, kraujas iw ki kraujas*. You know that I am always available if you require me."

For the relationship that Carnifex had with Grimoire's mother, Hauntruss, he styled himself as her uncle and sought to keep the legacy of the Dark Mother alive and well despite her untimely demise. He now gestured to the trappings that adorned the chamber, and the sheer amount of guests that had amassed within it. "Your mother would be proud of what you have accomplished, Grim. The Dark Side surges through every scrap of masonry, I can feel it reverberating through my bones."

*High Sith for "Blood of my blood"​

 

[Darth Imperia]

Mala had to admit. When she thought of the Sith, the image in her mind was closer to the one Vitium had provided when the two had first met; menacing auras, shadowy, robed figures, and the constant threat of betrayal; it was one of the reasons she still kept a Blaster pistol at her side, Sith or no. It was just good sense.

For the most part, however, the gala was a delight for the Acolyte's senses; regal, proud figures like [member="Tirdarius"] reminded her of what she aspired to, and the Countess, [member="Grimoire"] , was oddly alluring for a walking Nexus of darkness. There was also [member="Darth Carnifex"], who appeared to Mala's rudimentary awareness of the Force as something akin to a hurricane stuffed inside a skinsuit, ready to explode at the slightest provocation.

Amongst those that she was slightly less impressed by were the Miraluka and her apparent Master, given the way she was following him around. That was not to say that she viewed them as weak, as they were almost certainly more powerful than she, but they appeared more...approachable, for lack of a better term. Not weak, but not overwhelming.

There were, however, plenty of people at the gathering that Mala was less than impressed with. The bumbling oaf by the name of [member="Drew Diysent"] was one of them. Awareness was one of the first things any Sith needed to know. Controlling your emotions was even more important. Mala didn't need the Force to tell that the boy was nervous and frightful, any more than she needed the Force to know that he'd be swallowed whole by the guests here if he didn't shape up.

Still, that wasn't her business. What was her business, however, was socializing. It was what she was best at. Well, manipulating people was what she was best at, but socialization was more or less a friendlier form of that.

"I never expected Sith to throw parties, I have to admit." The Acolyte had approached [member="Niysha"] quietly - she didn't see the point in announcing her approach, since she was certain the Miraluka could see her coming anyway. "Although it's certainly a pleasant surprise."

 

[Ughad]

Kadri did not often attend parties and social gatherings, his disease made sure of that. Those things were below him, after all, or at least they used to be. In the past the only person that he needed to take orders from or worry about was the Host Lord herself. He needed not to build alliances and aquaintances as he could enforce his will, and those of the Host Lord's with an iron fist. These days he found himself on the lowest rung of nobility that could be offered in a nation that contained the sleaziest and least trustworthy men and women in the galaxy. He would need to play a careful political game with these demons if he were to find a seat above them.

It took not even a second glance to read most of these folk. Audacious and cautious. All of them but the most powerful and respected -if such a term could be used to explain the relations of Sith- assumingly wandering if a rival would use this opportunity to out them now. Honestly Kadri had the same fears. Naturally it was the fears any sane courtier would have in a feudalist conglomeration to say the least.

Kadri knew that this party was merely a gaudy show of wealth, one that [member="Grimoire"] was using to let all others know her own power. Surely it would attract petty rivals searching to take this great city for themselves. Kadri himself had been acquainted with its former Warlord. A rather pleasant fellow from the few times they had met. He thought these things and did not pay heed to where he stepped, bumping into [member="Mala Arar"]

The old Umbaran had his mask on of course, but he did not wear his old military dress, that was no longer appropriate, but rather something more pompous and more befitting a courtier such as himself. With his new outfit came a black walking stick fitted with simple, round silver knob engraved with the symbol of the Primeval. Unsurprisingly, his outfit was quite...tame to say the least when compared to these Sith Lords.

He took a moment to catch himself before turning back to the lady who had unerringly gotten in his way....Most of these...lovely lords would take great offense to his transgressions. He would need to quench a fire before it started

"Forgive me, miss. I seemed to have not payed attention to where I was going." The man gave her a slight bow. Perhaps he could turn this into a chance to gain an ally.

To Mala, this man would seems as almost nothing to the force, for if Carnifex was a hurricane, he was a mere drop of rain at most, like almost anyone else in the galaxy. Either way she would be able to sense that he was weaker than she. Perhaps he was supressing his powers, or perhaps he had none at all.

Spoiler: Kadri's outfit

 

[Darth Imperia]

Mala was content, a feeling she'd very rarely experienced in recent times.

Fine wine on her lips, a fairly attractive (if eyeless) conversational partner in [member="Niysha"], and, of course, a chance to wear her favorite dress.

So of course, she wasn't very happy when a bumbling oaf of an Umbaran walked right into her and spilled her drink. The young Acolyte whirled around, fury in her eyes - but it was a false fury, albeit a very convincing one. She didn't often get a chance to exercise power over her perceived lessers, so like many young Sith, she had a tendency to overdo it when the opportunity presented itself.

And yet...what little annoyance she actually felt died down as the man bowed to her, replaced by a smug sense of superiority. By the same token, the front she presented softened, and instead of a verbal thrashing, what she delivered was little more than a pompous reprimand.

"Hmph...I suppose I shouldn't expect much from one so weak in the Force. You are forgiven - this once. But by the Force, open those eyes of yours and be aware for once in your miserable life. And while you're at it, fetch me another glass of wine." Her tone was dismissive and pompous, and she spoke to [member="Kadri Ughad"] much like a baroness might speak to her servants - mildly insulting, but without any true malice behind her words.

Her ego sated, for the moment, she seemed content to ignore Kadri now - at least until he brought her replacement wine.

 

[Ughad]

"My my. I would hope that your master is more gregarious than yourself."

The old Umbaran man looked around for a servant nearby. There were plenty. This was the ball of a Sith countess, after all. A lack of slaves would be more disturbing than a surplus. He motioned for one of them to serve him. Before the servant could have a chance to pour the wine himself, the old man had grabbed a glass and the bottle from his tray and began to pour the alcohol himself. He handed bottle back to the servant who awkwardly shuffled away, not knowing if he should offer something else or simply serve someone else. To the lady before him he handed the glass.

"I'm surprised, honestly. Mere acyolytes often do not know how to show restraint from what I have seen. I must congratulate you for what little you displayed. A tone that let the other know how much lower they were. Your kind... our kind are the ones that climb their respective ladders quickly. I feel that you will surpass most of your peers, if not all. Especially the bumbling fool over there." The umbaran motioned his head towards [member="Drew Diysent"]

"Perhaps we should introduce ourselves? I am Kadri Ughad, Rightful Warlord of Bastion."

[member="Mala Arar"]

 

[Lina Ovmar]

Calina could feel the ebb and flow of the various force aura's within the hall as she ascended the steps to its entrance. Not long out of prison, she had a great deal of catching up to do. [member="Grimoire"] her mothers apprentice had built herself a city, no doubt with Anaya's help. She felt a spike of anger at the thought but surpressed it with ease. She was not here to fight, she was here to talk to people, to rekindle old alliances and make new ones. She would, after all, need all the help she could get to restart her climb. She opened her clutch bag, double checking the lightsaber was still there, and with a small smile, she clicked it shut and slid in through the doors.

Light reflected off her dress, making it glitter as she wandered into the hall. The room was abuzz with laughter and conversation as she cast her eyes around looking for familiar faces. The hostess herself was in conversation with a small group of people, among them that she recognised was @Darth Ingus, the rest were a mystery to her. She took a few steps into the crowd when she caught the 'scent' of an all too familiar aura. One that, once upon a time, might have caused her to stiffen with fear. Instead [member="Darth Carnifex"] was a welcome sight, she had a great deal of respect for him.

Even if he did stink.

She cast a smile in his direction, bowing her head in acknowledgement, before continuing towards Grimoire and the small group around her.

"My apologies for my belated arrival, Grimoire." she offered with a small bow of respect. "I hope I haven't missed much." While her tone and smile were courteous, no one could deny that there was a stiffness in her movements that suggested rivalry and an yearning desire to be anything but pleasant. Her eyes flicked to Ingus. "Darth Ingus, always a pleasure." She said with a small bow of her head. She looked to the others. "Forgive me, I'm unfamiliar with the rest of you."

[member="Kadri Ughad"] [member="Mala Arar"] [member="Drew Diysent"] [member="Tirdarius"] [member="Khaldun"] [member="Niysha"]