Star Wars OPEN New Sith Trials: Dark Reach: Episode I: An Order Remade

A combo with @Sinrebirth

Bridge of the Luxury Elite

She’d felt him nearing long before the lift opened behind her as she watched Hel showing the child, Cranjis, various things in the massive viewports of the bridge.

The lift doors opened, but she remained standing at the rail overlooking the crew below, her hands gripped the railing. Was it a mistake to keep her back to Insipid? Probably, but it was also her way of seeing if he would attempt to stab her.

Breathing slowly, in and out, she closed her eyes and just listened, and waited. After awhile she broke the silence first, “caring about some beings do not make me weak, or any less Sith. I can’t do anything about Haretisch, he has to chase his own demons, but I can find Ike. I’m unwilling to lose him, and if I get the impression that you’re going to work against me I’ll have no issue tossing you off my ship. To save him we will need resources and guess who has them? Me..”

Insipid looked at her. “Yes, you do. But my reliance upon you isn’t about resources - wealth, ships, people, it’s all so transient. I rely upon to because we used to be friends, and you helped Ike through the bad times with me.”

It was astonishingly honest.

She would realised he’d made a bubble of sound around them, but the crew would recognise a gentler face than he had shown a moment ago, even if they couldn’t hear his words.

The change was astonishing; schizophrenic even. “Once we get things in order, I’m going to throw it all at whatever arcane, eldritch problem we have today. The whole proverbial sink. Ike is already near, I suspect.” He placed a hand on her shoulder. “I appreciate your loyalty to the Sith. But the Triumvirate needs three to function.”

He told her who he intended to name to Triumvirate.

“We’ll sort out the High Lords and the rest, and have a strong Order again. We’ll besecure, and safe.” He was rambling, clearlyunhinged to some extent.

“We?” She said softly as not really a question. Feeling secure was foreign and there was no way she was falling into that trap.”I will need time to consider this addition,” was all the reply she could manage. Her wounds were still fresh. She needed time to mourn the bastard.

“Bell,” he said, no longer the pontificating Dark Lord. “I can’t do this without you. We’ve been scattered for too long. We need to rule, to acquire, expand, attain.”

“The War of Three was a disaster. Now, we need to rebuild, and those who are no longer here with us -“ His mind drifted to not just Haretisch, but Kralkus, Saadi, Anark, Kronos, Mallace, Leda, Halle. “We shall simply have to mourn them.” Of course, at least one of them was still around in some shape or manner. “But the others?” Hethought of the many who had died or left as traitors - chief among them Cocytus,undoubtedly. “We are better off without.”

“Focus on that rage, and we shall buildsomething that we need never mourn again.”

She’d been staring down at the crew during the entire exchange, but now she turned to face the man beside her, her former Master. “You’re right,” she said confidently, “but never quote me or I’ll swear I never said it,” she laughed. “I’m with you and ruling is my specialty.”

Insipid gave her a rare smile. “I shall never cite you.” He turned. “My new apprentice has headed off to find himself somewhere to fit in I imagine.” He chuckled. “Let us follow him and do what we do best.”

He turned to head to his reborn Order.

Tag: everyone

 

OOC: Fun with @greyjedi125, @Silvertough, and @Sinrebirth

IC Bernael, Manticore, Iudex, Shimer possibly, Sabel
Where the hells are we?

Bernael’s head snapped up as the Maurauder shook, shuddered, and bucked before it dropped out of hyper. His senses tingled, a taste filling his mental awareness. Behind the mask his eyes suddenly flashed from silver to black and he growled. Turning to the nearest Shadow ”Find out where we are, right now! his voice came in a gravelly tone.

Turning to Manticore, ”Snoke was ready, I believe. Or rather, someone, and I’m almost positive who, has assisted him to be so.” his tone was still low, growling. ”We must figure out where we are and still get to Oba Deah.”

Roxuli

The yacht tumbled and in the moment before it did the restraints burst forth and secured Sabel to the command couch, as it did for Zestus. The neck support kept his head pointed toward the displays and he could see that something massive had torn through the system. ”Zestus, get us on an even keel. And raise that Maurauder we saw in the Chandrila holo, I suspect those are my old Sith ‘friends’.”

The yacht, in Zestus’s capable hands, slowly broke from the roll it was in and the restraints retracted. Sabel stood, taking the couple steps over to the holo as it came to life. ”If this is who I believe it is, we need to talk, Snoke just launched a massive attack.”

Onboard the Maurauder

The holoscreen pinged and then lit. It was blank for a few moments before a Chiss in black armor appeared in it, ”If this is who I believe it is, we need to talk, Snoke just launched a massive attack.”

Bernael nodded, ”Rumors of our demise were greatly exaggerated, or rather we died and were reborn, take your pick, Sabel. The attack seemed aimed through hyper, galaxywide.”

The ship had long since jumped to hyperspace, leaving the gathered Sith to their own devices. Iudex had chosen to retire to an open cabin. A hot meal and an even hotter shower sounding downright heavenly after what had transpired on the Star Destroyer. His armor, the bulky mishmash of heavy metal and leather that it was, had to be maintained as well. A representative of the Sith couldn't just traipse across the galaxy covered in scorch marks and viscera.

Well, some could. Some actually preferred the aesthetic.

But not Iudex. A more dignified look was preferable. So into the shower the Falleen went, and began to scrub. Once Iudex was satisfied, he began to work on the laborious task of cleansing the filth from his armor. The lightsabers came next, with him paying extra attention to his most recent addition to his collection. The process of stripping down and repairing his equipment had become a ritual of sorts, one wherein his body fell into a stable rhythm as it worked and his mind was free to wander.

Such reflection was cut short by a sudden knocking on his door, followed immediately thereafter by the ship's violent deceleration. Iudex leaped to his feet, recalling both his lightsabers to his hands as he moved to the door. They had dropped out of hyperspace, that much was certain.

Were they ambushed? Ripped from hyperspace by an Interdictor of some sort? The specifics didn't matter, all that did was regrouping with the Sith, and coming up with some sort of game plan. Iudex threw on a simple shirt, forgoing his armor for the moment, and made his way to the door. He could feel Shimmer's close proximity outside. That was good. Perhaps she had come to fetch him. It would save time.

Iudex opened the door and stepped outside, where something became immediately apparent - Shimmer had come to his door for alternate reasons.

The first thing he noticed was her hair, styled in a very Falleenian top-knot. Iudex blinked slowly as his eyes inevitably traveled downward. "...Ah. Your.. Hm." Suddenly the ceiling became extraordinarily interesting, a place he very quickly adverted his eyes towards.

"We'll discuss this, ah, later" He finally mustered, becoming extremely annoyed at his present inability to control the burning sensation in his cheeks. "You should probably change.. Bridge?"

There was a conversation being had, but it all came to an abrupt halt when the entire ship shuddered and dropped out of hyper space.

But it wasn’t the simple fact that the Maurauder had been forced from its course, but everything in the force felt off in a way that was very disturbing.

Bernael spoke the name of the culprit at the same time he’d thought of it: Snoke.

Manticore growled aloud, both anger and frustration spilling over.

As usual, Lord Hunger’s tactical mind was already in action.

A quick glance out the viewport only revealed a star field that remained unrecognizable; finding out their current location was the immediate priority, if there was any hope of anything resembling a mission left.

Lord Hate bristled for a moment, 'releasing steam' as it were, before collecting himself. Snoke was ahead on them on his timetable and acted several steps ahead of them. The Sith were being outpaced and outmaneuvered at every turn. Bernael suggested that Snoke may have someone assisting him, as if the reproachable creature required any.

Bernael already asked for their location and current heading to be confirmed, so there was no reason to echo his brother in this. Manticore glanced at the Pykestaff and really didn't like the thoughts that ran through his mind, yet he did not act upon any of it - for the moment.

Manticore's mind was running through their options. Snoke had done something reprehensible for sure, he could feel it, despite not having the details. Certainly, they could rush into the Maelstrom, but their chances for success were even lower now, more than before. In his mind, they were going to need allies if their mission to rid the galaxy of the Supreme Leader was to succeed. Maybe Lord Iudex’s new ally would make themselves useful?

As soon as he had finished that thought, the holoscreen pinged and then lit. It was blank for a few moments before a Chiss in black armor appeared in it, ”If this is who I believe it is, we need to talk, Snoke just launched a massive attack.”

"Lord Sabel." Manticore exclaimed, feeling a measure of surprise, despite not showing it, as always.

Bernael nodded, ”Rumors of our demise were greatly exaggerated, or rather we died and were reborn, take your pick, Sabel. The attack seemed aimed through hyper, galaxywide.”

“Let us meet immediately.” Manticore interjected, but with due respect. In truth, they owed the Chiss much, but there was no time for pleasantries. If Snoke was allowed to reach his ‘End Game’, it would mean the end of everything.

They had to act and act now.

Not waiting another moment, Lord Hate hit the ship-wide comm. "Lord Iudex, Shimmer, join us on the bridge."

Shimmer blushed, and noted that Iudex looked good casual. Tightening her robe, she shrugged. “Seems like an emergency, this will do.” She reached into a pocket and indicated she had her lightsaber with her anyway. “This is what matters after all.”

With a smirk, she turned to head to the bridge with him as Manticore commed. She fished a comm out of her other pocket. “Already on our way, my Lord.” She grinned. “Iudex is already with me.”

Pykestaff for his part stared into the distance. “It’s a hyperspace weapon. It shouldn’t exist now. It’s creating an idea in the Force.”

He looked at Hate and Hunger. “We’re adjusting things, too.”

Iudex frowned at Shimmer for a moment, before finally sighing and gesturing with his hand for her to lead the way. It was becoming readily apparent at how futile it was for him to argue with her. Besides, with Shimmer leading the way, he at least didn't have to worry about hiding his discomfort about the situation from her.

Another sigh. Iudex squashed such thoughts. If anything, discovering such a weakness about himself was good. It would be something to work upon. But later. The fact they had just been ripped from hyperspace by an unknown entity was vastly more important than some unexpected hormone fluctuations.

..The hair is a nice touch. Iudex begrudgingly admitted, tutting to himself as the pair hurried towards the Bridge.

"What happened? How many of them are there?" Iudex demanded, striding abruptly through the security doors onto the Bridge. If an Interdiction cruiser was involved, boarding parties would undoubtedly be on their way. Battle plans needed to be drawn up, defense points identified, retaliatory targets..

And then Iudex saw the holoscreen, and a very particular Chiss he had counted on never seeing again.

"Lord Sabel, fancy seeing you here." Iudex stated coldly, casting a sidelong glance towards Hate and Hunger.

Only a little time passed between the call from Manticore to the others before the sound of the bridge hatch opening came to his ears. Turning toward the noise a smirk crossed his face at the sight, Shimmer was certainly fighting her battle and, from the way Iudex was staring anywhere but her barely clad form, she was winning.

At Iudex’s statement to Sabel his eyebrow rose but he gave no other indication that he’d noticed the almost frigid way it had come out. Gesturing at the two of them, ”Glad you could interrupt your...liason...to join us.”

~~~Onboard Sabel’s yacht~~~

Sabel turned to Zestus, ”Trace their signal, lock onto it, and take us there as soon as this call finishes.” he told his Captain. His gaze returned to the foursome in the holo, ”It is my pleasure to see you again, Lords Hate and Hunger.” A wry smile came to his face as he looked at the Falleen. ”It does seem that despite your best efforts, my assistance is of need, Iudex.”

He waved a hand, ”No matter. Lord Hate, we will be locked on to your location in but a moment and when we finish here, as long as this new weapon does not interfere, we will jump to you so that we can complete the task that the three of us have set ourselves. At my disposal is this ‘special’ yacht, myself, and the Captain of my Guard. It would take longer to summon a portion of the fleet. Time I do not know is available to us.”

~~~Onboard the Maurauder~~~

Bernael’s eyebrow had risen again at the greeting from Sabel to Iudex. He turned to the Falleen and the way the color of his eyes fluctuated gave away the impression that they would discuss why Iudex seemed so set against Sabel assisting them.

He returned his gaze to the holo, ”I do believe you and, if your Captain is like my Shadows at all he will be good assistance." His gaze swung to the Pykestaff, ”One being dying and returning will adjust things, two doing so and coming back as much more will certainly do that. If spouting things that we already know is the best you have I know Lord Hate will show you all but the tenderest of mercies.”

His fiery gaze fell upon both Iudex and Shimmer for a solid heartbeat.

Well, it didn’t matter what they had been doing, not doing or about to do. The two sith made it to the bridge in a timely manner, despite their…appearance. Clearly the urgency of the matter was not lost to them, though he could not blame them for seeking one last dalliance before the end of everything.

Lord Hate offered Lord Iudex and Shimmer a curt nod of acknowledgement before turning back to view the holo of Lord Sabel. Iudex’s greeting of the Chiss was telling if nothing else, but at least he had the wisdom to refrain from any further unpleasantness.

With a suppressed grump, Manticore mentally forced himself to put aside his pride, fully understanding that this time around, the Sith and the Chiss needed to cooperate with each other, if they were going to succeed against Snoke and his new weapon of terror and mass destruction, this ‘True Death Star’.

Still, Manticore felt they were mission a crucial piece of the puzzle. Snoke was trying to keep them from noticing something, but what?

“We should head to the Akkadese Maelstrom as soon as we make the rendezvous.” Manticore said, overstating the obvious, for the simple fact that it needed to be said.

Turning to the Shadow the manning comms station, he made a quick inquiry.

“Any word from Emperor Soliloquy?”

Indeed, time was of the essence, but the laws of physics did not change to account for a Sith Lord’s growing impatience, nor did the nature of the cosmos.

With that thought in mind, Lord Hate turned to the Pykestaff.

“After this, I will speak with you. Alone.”

Pykestaff shrugged. “Sure, alright.” He mooted. “We’re not all too far from the Hapan Cluster now, right? This is near where we knocked our Destroyer out of hyperspace.”

He glowered at Iudex for needing a save at Chandrila. Shimmer ignored him, and flipped the comlink from her pocket. “I mean, we could basically connect to the Hapan network from here...”

As she did, she jumped.

There was a commanding voice.

It was Darth Insipid, announcing his return - and that of other Sith with names only Manticore would know.

He was taking back control.

Iudex had remained silent as the other Sith, and Sabel made plans, choosing instead to absorb their conversation like a wet sponge. Information was a weapon, having found himself sorely lacking in that department, the last thing he wanted to do was to miss anything vital. Having to work with the Chiss again was regrettable undoubtedly, but such feelings originated from his pride.

Iudex could survive a bruised ego. For now, he would temper his frustration with cold facts. Snoke was a threat on a galactic scale. Extinguishing such would take allies. Sabel, for now, was an Ally. Therefor..

He exhaled softly, visibly relaxing as the group spoke. Snoke was the true enemy, without question. Once he was finally taken down, then the Falleen could work out his petty conflict with the Chiss, not before.

...And then Darth Insipid's voice erupted from the loudspeakers announcing his, along with a number of other presumable Sith Lords Iudex didn't know of, triumphant return to power.

"Ahh. And so it is." Iudex said with a widening smile. "The true Emperor returns, as expected." In an instant, the wriggling doubts about the Sith Iudex had harbored deep within vanished, replaced with blistering determination. The contract had been reforged, and with it, Iudex's purpose within the Order itself.

"I believe.." He began, eyeing both Lord Hate and Hunger, "We should respond to our Emperor immediately. The rest will quickly fall back in line, I'm sure." Iudex crossed his arms across his chest, any prior embarrassment revolving Shimmer completely abandoned.

The Emperor had returned! The true Lord of the Sith! Finally, he could end this charade with Shimmer. She was but an apprentice, and apprentices were to be trained as zealous soldiers for the cause, nothing further. Insubordination would result in reeducation, beatings, if necessary. Iudex nearly hummed with amusement. Finally, he could get some proper work done.

Manticore turned smoothly at hearing the Falleen speak. He could certainly hear the conviction in his voice as well as feel it. How it had multiplied after hearing the voice of Darth Insipid, announcing his triumphant return.

Inwardly, Manticore felt vindicated somewhat, as he simply knew Darth Insipid was not one to remain vanquished for an extended period of time, unlessit suited him, of course. Still, the timing of it all was quite curious to the zabrak, especially since Manticore did not sense a ‘shift’ in the Force. Snoke was still a galactic threat of imminent and critical danger, a danger which only continued to increase with every moment they delayed in inaction.

Still, it was quite fortuitous that Darth Insipid did arrive when he did, along with a host of sith, for they were going to need all the help they could get- and then some. In truth, only Insipid could rally all sith forces, and quite likely their 'allies', at least for the true war effort ahead of them.

“And so it is.” Manticore echoed.

“Lord Iudex, it sounds like you are volunteering to return to the Emperor, and as well you should. I believe you can serve as a bridge, a contact point between myself and Lord Hunger.”

Here, Manticore allowed himself a mirthless smirk.

“You see, Lord Hunger and I have orders from the Emperor himself, orders that must be fulfilled at all costs. Every moment we delay, our chances to stop Snoke diminish. If we fail to stop him, there will be no ‘sith order’ left to return to, and I can almost guarantee, that a failure of that magnitude will not be well received by the Dark Lord.”

A knowing nod is offered after a pause.

“Consider my words, then make your final decision by the time we reach the rendezvous point.”

With that, Manticore looked to his brother in arms, Darth Bernael, wordlessly inquiring if he had anything else to add.

Bernael allowed a small smile to touch his lips as the announcement came through the comm. Certainly if he and Manticore could die and be reborn it was well within the Emperor’s abilities. Iudex’s reaction told him volumes and his smile rose fractionally.

He opened his mouth to speak but Manticore’s voice rose before his could. He nodded along as his brother spoke, he couldn’t have said it better himself. When Manticore looked over at him he nodded deeper. ”Not much I can add to that, my brother.” He turned toward Iudex. ”This is both the Emperor returned and not, I suspect. The sense I have is that the Emperor we know from this timeline is dead or incorporeal currently and this is, somehow, the other part of his soul that was still in the old timeline. He knows both Manticore and I well and knows that the mission we have been given by him takes precedence above a gathering of Sith.”

A dark chuckle left his lips, ”Of course, whichever Insipid this is, he has a tendency to, what is it, ‘kill the messenger’, but thank you for volunteering to do so.”

He turned away for a moment, to the comm station. To the Shadow there, ”Send the same brief we did for Soliloquy to the Emperor. Address it to him, his eyes only, from his Lords of Hate and Hunger.” he instructed. As soon as the chime sounded that the message had been sent he turned back, his eyes glittering, ”To avoid any ‘accidental’ omissions on anyone’s part when they report to the Emperor.” he said, his eyes boring into Iudex before turning and winking at Manticore.

Sabel remained quiet as the other Sith conversed, he was cataloguing and adding to his knowledge base about them. When the broadcast came through on their end he heard it and an eyebrow rose. The Emperor of that group was, somehow, once more alive, ordering his Sith to attend him. The debate that took place almost made him laugh, the Falleen seemed to be on his own in the desire to return to the other Sith, or would be with the female.

The nav system chimed and he noted that they now had a course to the ship of Hate and Hunger. ”If you do not have a shuttle Iudex and Shimmer may use to return, I have one in the hangar of the yacht. We now have locked on and will head to you directly. I will raise you on comm again when I arrive at your location.” A wry grin to Iudex followed, then respectful nods to Hate and Hunger before the call ended.

He looked at Zestus, ”Get us there, my Captain.”

Shimmer shrugged as she snapped off the comm. “I mean, we weren’t mentioned in that order.”

“We could carry on as we were - unless you intend to order us to go back to Hapes, High Lords of the Sith? Is the Emperor’s Apprentice to be commanded by you?” She pulled a slightly amused expression, but glanced at Iudex. “I mean we could have some quiet time, on the way.”

She smiled.

The Pykestaff hesitated. “It could take time for Insipid to rein in the Sith. But Snoke has a superweapon now, we need to either go for him with everything we have now - including Iudex and Shimmer - or we need to accept that we’re launching a feint until Insipid brings the rest of us.”

“It’s our decision, not Insipid’s - nor until he takes back command. And I vote that we go ahead with Sabel and stop Snoke from firing again, even if we can’t defeat him alone.”

He shrugged his Pyke shoulders.

“Probably.”

Shimmer rolled her eyes. “I vote we go to the Maelstrom and do our best, with Sabel. Now.”

Pykestaff tapped his chin. “Me too.”

“Assuming democracy works, that is,” said Pykestaff wryly.

"Then we ALL go to Snoke."

Manticore spoke with a finality that would brook no challenge. This was no time for delicate diplomacy. The majority was in agreement and that's all that truly mattered. They would do their best to delay the inevitable, for that's all they could do. If the 'cavalry' arrived on time, or at all, was something out of their control.

"Let us prepare ourselves for Lord Sabel's arrival, I doubt we'll have any downtime after that."

He glanced briefly at Lord Iudex and Shimmer with a hint of amusement.

Bernael nodded at what Manticore said. He agreed with his brother. This was no time to debate or be divided. Even if Iudex or Shimmer were reluctant companions in this endeavor it needed to occur. Turning to the Shadow on the comms, ”Send a secondary message to the Emperor, that Iudex and Shimmer will be accompanying us. The original data burst already includes the destination and reasoning so no need to reiterate it. Once completed, have the two contingents, Shadows and Aran Tyr alike, prepare.”

Glancing at Manticore, he knew they’d both be fully prepared for the battle but the question was...his gaze turned to Iudex and Shimmer, ”Resolve what is there, without hampering either of your combat efficiencies, asap. I won’t have this battle impaired by that.” his voice low, gravelly, brooking no argument.

"You misunderstand, a coded message is all that is needed." Iudex stated matter-of-factually with a wave of his hand. "We are spread too thin to break our party up further."

He turned slowly to face Shimmer. "Lord Soliloquy's apprentice will continue to be commanded by me for the duration of this mission, yes." He corrected sternly, his expression dour save for a slight twitching of his brow. "Once more we serve a purpose greater than ourselves. Act accordingly. "

"I will begin my preparations for battle immediately." Iudex said, offering both Hate and Hunger a small bow of his head. "I am eager to witness your prowess in person.."

“Well said, Lord Iudex, then we are agreed. We face the Supreme Leader together."

Manticore returned the Falleen's bow with one of his own. Indeed, it was good to be about the Emperor's business once again.

"Now to attend to a final piece of business...."

Lord Hate signaled to the Pykestaff to follow as he began to turn.

"By your leaves my Lords."

With those words spoken, the zabrak Sith Lord did depart the ship's bridge in search for more private accommodations, fully expecting the Pykestaff to do as he was bid.

Bernael remained on the bridge, all he needed doing was already done and he would wait with his people for Sabel’s arrival. They would all be together soon and then launch to the battle that could define the future of the Sith, with the resources they had, hopefully enough.

TAGS: @Mitth_Fisto, @darthhelinith, @Sinrebirth, @Shadowsun, @HanSolo29, @QueenSabe7, @Lady Belligerent, @Nehru_Amidala, @DarthIshyZ, @Adalia-Durron, @greyjedi125, @Silvertough, @E. L.Knight

 

OOC: Of course 'daddy' Renn had to get a quick response in and thanks to @darthhelinith for the short bit of combo.

IC Renn and Helinith
Parents...it seems

”I wasn’t expecting them to ‘flower’ so soon, my little Craziness, but it seemed they responded immediately to our joint energy encouraging growth.” Renn said softly. He watched as she took care of Baby, gently encouraging it and settling it into a pot of soil. He could feel the contentment in the infant Neti as she did so and he smiled at her, nodding at what she was doing. She may not have expected or known that she would be a mother at this point but she was doing beautifully.

As the moment ended he heard a cough by Baby’s siblings guarding the entryways. Looking up he felt a presence beyond it and when he enquired, received confirmation that the ‘greeting’ that Helinith desired prepared had been done so in the hangar. Thanking them he turned back to her, ”The others will be safe here and give us time to ensure no one disturbs them, but Baby can come with to greet the Emperor and the High Lords.” Reaching down, he held out his hand to assist her to her feet.

Helinith took it gratefully and pulled herself to her feet.

"For the moment, we should keep this-" she gestured to the plants around them- "between us. I don't want any of the other sith to take advantage of them. They're young and impressionable."

He nodded, in full agreement. ”They need to be protected and cared for and already see us as their parents, not sure how they’d react to others trying to do anything to or with them.” He saw a tendril from Baby reach out and wind around her wrist, where she was holding the pot, ”Not sure he’s going to want to stay here though.”

Helinith nodded and stroked the little vine.

"It's fine." She told the netiling, "You're staying with me."

She looked up at Renn.

"How about giving your wife and child a lift?"

He assisted her and Baby as he lifted them to his shoulder, settling her in her usual perch. He held them both with one arm as he ducked under the doorframe and through the other infant Neti, feeling their desire to come with but settling when he let them know that they would be taken care of and he would ensure that they got them settled similarly to Baby, as soon as possible after they met Insipid and the others and until then they would ensure none came to this place. He straightened then began the walk to the hangar, his long stride eating up the distance quickly.

The walk to the hangar wasn’t long and along the way he felt Baby grow a bit more, his tendrils wrapping around her wrist more for a little extra support. When they arrived everything was as he’d been told and the preparations were complete. She slipped down from his shoulder and to her feet as they had walked through the hangar. He and Helinith, for now still in their roles as Prince Regent and Queen Mother, took their places at the fore. They were the only Sith that had been on Star Home as it was so it was their place to be there to greet the Emperor and the others when their ship touched down.

As they waited he turned, leaning down, smiling at her softly, ”I hope Insipid enjoys your surprise, I don’t want to have Star Home destroyed again.”

TAGS: @Mitth_Fisto, @darthhelinith, @Sinrebirth, @Shadowsun, @HanSolo29, @QueenSabe7, @Lady Belligerent, @Nehru_Amidala, @DarthIshyZ, @Adalia-Durron, @greyjedi125, @Silvertough, @E. L.Knight

 

A combo with @QueenSabe7 and @Sinrebirth—

IC: Aryan Graul, Syren, and Mas Amedda
Enroute to the Hangar, Aboard the Luxury Elite, Hapes

The tremors, which initially announced their departure from hyperspace, abruptly ceased. While this restored silence to their portion of the ship, it was only a momentary reprieve. An intercom system soon crackled to life overhead as someone tapped into the bridge’s main communication relay. There was a brief burst of static, followed by an exchange of idle ship chatter, but then Insipid’s authoritative voice superseded them both to assert control.

For his part, Aryan scowled at the Emperor’s posturing. It was his usual bluster, an embellished speech that relied on excessive theatrics to emphasize his point. And yet, it proved extremely effective. The fact that the man had managed to bring order to the lost factions—and with minimal effort—rankled him more than he cared to admit.

Nevertheless, he did not allow those feelings to betray his professional demeanor. If he was honest with himself, he might have even found some amusement in the way Insipid passively referred to him as a ‘High Lord.’ He could certainly get used to that.

"All Sith are to head to the hangar," the Emperor continued after another break in the transmission. "We shall disembark and kill any who resist the return of the rule of the True Sith Triumvirate."

Lifting a brow, Aryan canted his head to regard Mas Amedda with a wry grin. "I believe that’s our cue," he drawled in an even tone, gesturing with his hand for the Chagrian to proceed him. "Shall we?"

Once they were back out in the corridor, it didn’t take long to assess the damage and reorient themselves. According to the map he recalled on his datapad, the hangar was only a few levels below them; the nearest turbolift bank should give them the most direct route.

However, Aryan wasn’t going anywhere without Syren.

Locating the fiery redhead among the wreckage, the former Prime Minister staggered over the debris to reach her position, his hand tentatively gripping her bicep to offer support if she should require it. "Hey, are you alright?"

His forehead creased with concern as he appraised her with his eyes, clearly checking her over for any apparent injuries.

"Yes, I'm fine," Syren replied, a little harsher than she would have liked as she pulled her arm out of Aryan's concerned grasp. She had stayed back and allowed him to speak with Amedda alone, knowing it would do no good to stay perched on his shoulder, watching his every move. It would've been smothering, and besides, he had stayed close enough that any danger would've been sensed in time for her to act. "I'm just getting frakking sick and tired of these constant..." her hands gestured to the destruction around them. "... power struggles."

Stepping in and cupping Aryan's cheek with a hand, she warily eyed the chagrian at his back. "Are you alright?" she whispered, inferring much more than just his physical state.

A soft scoff escaped his lips when she vented her frustration over the constant dissension within their ranks. He could certainly relate, especially when it came to internal politics—or lack thereof. It was tedious and petty.

However, Aryan quickly dismissed those sentiments, his expression turning serious when Syren reached up to stroke his face. He involuntarily shuddered at her touch, though he did not allow that to distract him from the urgency of this moment. While he was glad to hear that she was fine, he could also detect the worry in her gaze, her eyes swirling a stormy gray as they searched his own.

That’s when he realized that she knew about the strange psychological episode he had experienced. She had likely felt the change in him, which meant any attempts to conceal it from her would be a futile gesture—not that he would do such a thing at this juncture. He trusted Syren implicitly. With her Force sense, perhaps she could even provide some valuable insight on how to manage the effects.

"I’m—yeah," he murmured quietly, his hand reaching up to encompass the one she had rested upon his cheek. Gently, he began to guide her fingers over the coarseness of his silvery beard. "I’ll be fine. I can explain more later, once we’re not so susceptible to prying eyes…"

Aryan then rocked back on his heels and glanced pointedly at Amedda. "Present company excluded, of course," he amended with a shrewd smirk. "Through a mutual understanding, the Grand Vizier has agreed to accompany us. He recognizes the overarching importance of our mission and wishes to serve as our ally. No doubt his expertise will prove invaluable in achieving certain goals."

The Chagrian did not hear a word, he was simply watching and smiling, his emotions a bubble of awe at his involvement.

Syren raised a brow. "And you think that's a good idea?" she asked immediately, moving back and around Aryan slightly, putting herself in full view of Amedda. She looked him up and down, clearly letting him know she didn't approve.

She knew a snake in the grass when she saw one.

With a sigh, Syren raked her fingers through her disheveled hair. "Nevermind, I trust your judgment." The assassin rested her hands upon her hips and looked back up at Aryan. "What's our next step?"

Aryan’s gaze lingered on the Chagrian, his lips pressed together into a thin line. He understood Syren’s point, and while he did have his own reservations about Amedda’s long-term…commitments, he also couldn’t ignore the immediate—and personal—benefits. Not only would it help facilitate his own advancement, but it gave them a clear advantage over Insipid.

Despite the Emperor’s promises, Aryan remained cautious. He wanted to ensure that he had a card tucked up his sleeve for when the man decided to inevitably overstep his bounds. It was all about checks and balances, after all.

"We comply with Insipid’s instructions," he answered Syren’s question in a low rumble, now moving down the corridor toward the turbolift at a clipped pace. "Which means assembling in the hangar, getting off this gods-forsaken ship, and staking our claim."

Aryan slapped the control for the lift and stepped inside once the doors parted. "I don’t intend to get left behind…again."

Syren followed Aryan, shaking her head as he spoke. She grabbed his arm, tugging on it with enough force to halt him in his tracks.

"Why do we care? Why?" she spat, her emotions unraveling. "You and I..." Her thoughts raced, moving too fast for words to form.

"Aryan, why do we keep doing this?"

Sliding to a stop, Aryan turned and studied her under an intense gaze. He recognized her concern and the underlying ideas that fueled those anxieties. They have both faced insurmountable odds alongside the Sith. It was a harrowing experience that saw them suffer through many hardships, including treachery and defeat. It had made sense for them to want to escape the endless cycle; to free themselves from the tyranny. They had even vowed to do so at the first available opportunity.

Syren’s desperate plea reminded him that this could very well be that moment…

And yet, he hesitated. The game had suddenly changed—precipitated by the knowledge he had gained through his awakening—and he found himself unable to fully resist. He had become blinded by his own ambitions; for his lust for power and control. It was so close that he could practically reach out and touch it.

"Because this is what I gave up everything for," Aryan finally confessed, his voice devoid of all emotion as he pulled his arm free. "I’m on the cusp of achieving greatness, Syren. This is what we’ve crossed timelines for; what we’ve fought for. The Sith—who serve as our foundation—cannot stand when we’re divided. But now we have reestablished our base; we’re back. All of us…together. We can win this and expand our influence. It’s all ours for the taking, Syren."

His gaze lingered a moment longer, his blue-gray eyes reflecting the conviction of his words—and perhaps his descent into madness. It appeared as if he wanted to say more, his lips parting marginally, but then he simply exited the lift and followed behind Amedda toward the shuttle.

This was a chance to secure the future that fate had stolen from him at Mortis all those years ago. While he had his objections about Darth Insipid, Bellorum, Manticore, and even the quirky Serapis and Soliloquy, he knew that he could count on them to fulfill their roles, which in turn, would promote his own success.

That…

...and he found himself wanting to see Ike again. As much as Aryan hated the man, there was something he had to address. His newfound memories had revealed an interesting…fact about him too.

In that exact moment, Aryan forgot about his pact to escape with Syren—at least, temporarily. He had lost his way, completely consumed by his desire to achieve everything he had ever wanted. He was closer now than he’d ever been.

Between Amedda and Insipid, he would have it all.

TAG: @QueenSabe7; @Sinrebirth; @Lady Belligerent; @Shadowsun; others on board the Luxury Elite

 

IC: Darth Insipid
Aboard the Star Home, Hapes space

As they traversed to the floating Royal Palace, Insipid dove into the Hapan High Command records. He didn’t have time to pick up much, but he did catch the message from Manticore and Bernael, as well as two Sith by the name of Iudex and Shimmer... who he did not know.

Surely the other part of me left behind something...

This Insipid was enraged by the situation he found himself in, but there it was. Two halves of a Sith Order and both had grown without him. Yet he was being expected to seize control again? Not likely.

He took a deep, soft breath.

And then the glitter cannons went off.

With a bellow of a laugh, he shook his head. That would be his old apprentice.

He had arrived, as so too did the other Sith.

Absently, he wondered as to the entomology of a group of Sith. A murder of crows was one of his favourites... should a plurality be a Shadow of Sith, perhaps?

He eyed them, some by name, some by reputation. Soliloquy, the reluctant Emperor, who was going to be all too glad to foist the role onto him, no doubt of that. Takaris Yur, a Keshiri apprentice; Renn and Helinith, as trouble as ever, earning a very warm smile - he completely refused to acknowledge the baby pot. At all.

Behind him, disembarking, Bellorum as his Triumvir, Aryan and Amedda, the only Chagrian and ostensibly less important here than he had been in their own timeline, though in this moment he had lost track of Syren. It was the same with his own apprentice - Azathoth had made his own way, nursing his concerns and curiosity. Hekate he would nod to; they’d never formally met.

There were so many balls in the air... the sooner he delegated to the Dark Lords and High Lords, the better - for him, for them, and their Order.

Otherwise, there was an Ithorian imprisoned in the prisons of the Hapan Royal Palace, and it would be made available for Serapis-Astarta if he wanted it.

And there was Ike, his former consort, and, well, it was very complicated now. Insipid narrowed his eyes at the man, and his Black-Coat, glancing to Soliloquy, who kindly had taken a mildly recognisable form. Insipid saw his Holocron, a little version of himself, and without a word yanked it to his hand.

He cracked it, a spectral energy emerging with a howl, eager to possess an enemy - and Insipid opened his mouth and swallowed it whole like a stream of ghoulish liquid. Smacking his lips - even licking them - his eyes glowed yellow briefly and he quirked a smile. None of them would have likely seen that before - and he bet Azathoth would have been surprised.

His eyes blazed white for a moment, and then reverted to their usual hard and burned out golden. He cast a glance over them all, and smiled at them all. “Well done, Sith, one and all.”

He ensured this was shown on a the private Hapan High Command channel that Serapis - if he did not return here - had access to, as did the Admiral Tomsini. Too did High Lord Manticore and his team, in pursuit of - ah yes, Snoke.

He knew almost everything that had transpired.

Their Sith Emperor looked to them.

“Follow me to the Round Room. It is time for us to be numbered, and our hierarchy, for the last time, redefined.”

—-
The Round Room

Insipid regarded the room of white thrones in the heart of the Star Home. He imagined Admiral Tomsini had never seen this room, but Insipid ensured a feed was connected to her still.

There were thirteen seats lowered to the ground.

He would fill them all.

He bade their all sit, apart from the Sith apprentices.

And then, with a surge of the Force, the seats rose.

Insipid was highest.

Bellorum, second.

Possibly to his surprise, Soliloquy was third. Insipid grinned as he elevated above all the other Sith present. As your just reward for competent rule he sent into the Force. Triumvir Soliloquy - in the absence of Lord Haretisch, he would be an Acting Dark Lord.

The fourth seat was empty.

The fifth, it belonged to High Lady Syren.

Aryan Graul occupied the sixth, as much as Insipid would have enjoyed the couple sharing a chair, Syren was an obvious fifth.

Beneath Graul was the seventh, assigned to Serapis in recognition of his steadfast support for the Sith Order.

Eighth was Ike, if only because Insipid needed to put him somewhere. Also nepotism and inevitable complaining in the bedroom (if they ever got that far) meant Insipid had to give him something prominent. Ike for his part smiled maliciously at Aryan. Insipid wondered as to that.

Ninth was also empty, due to the absence of its owner.

Helinith was tenth, and besides her Renn, at eleventh. Insipid doubted the pairing would be a surprise, but the numbering might. But now the full Order was here, it had to be adjusted according.

Twelfth was vacant, for the same reasons as fourth and ninth.

Thirteenth, but by no means last, was Hekate, for her role as teacher of their youngest deserved a place.

Insipid cast his eyes at Azathoth and Takaris Yur. “Apprentices will earn their seats as they ascend to Lordship. But for now the True Sith Order stands so.”

“Fourth and absent is of course High Lord Manticore, and similarly ninth is Lord Bernael, and twelfth is Lord Iudex,” he indicated the empty seats.

He allowed them the merest moment to acclimate themselves to their positions.

“You have surpassed my greatest hopes and expectations. Hapes is ours, and Kuat our tool. Kesh is our secret, and we shall undoubtedly add Coruscant and Nubia to our sphere of influence - and the entire Imperial remnant.” His words would touch them all in different ways. “New apprentices have been trained, or are nearly trained, and we grow stronger with every passing day. There is no power struggle between myself and Dark Lord Bellorum, for we have an accord, and Queen Mother and Prince Consort to keep us strong in this realm.” He nodded to Helinith and Renn, making it clear he intended to keep them in their present roles.

His tone darkened.

“But we have a great enemy. Snoke and his First Order have acquired a superweapon that can manipulate gravity to power a blast across galactic distances. It must be destroyed, and Snoke defeated. He has kidnapped Prince Isolder, who the Hapans still believe in. So too has he relieved us of defensive platforms necessary to ensure the New Republic is no threat to us.”

As he spoke, a sly voice picked at Azathoth. So you’re the new apprentice. It was harsh, and brittle, and violent.

For his part, Amedda remained absolutely joyful that he was again part of the Sith. Insipid hesitated for only a second as he cast his eyes over the Chancellor’s Staff, with the small statue of Sistros atop it. His gaze flickered to Graul, and then back to Amedda, and continued on. It was the smallest of moments - only those who knew him personally would recognise it.

Such as Bellorum, Aryan, Ike and Helinith. Maybe Soliloquy. Maybe Serapis, by this point. But even Syren would feel some concerns about the staff.

“It is my intentions to forthwith take all of our remaining and gathered strength - every Dragon, ever cruiser, even this Star Home, to advance upon Snoke and kill him and every last scrap of his First Order.”

He grinned mercilessly.

“Who is with me?”

—-
Blockade Line

Of course Admiral Tomsini and the Thunderstar had other things to do than pay attention to politics and grand plans and potential insanity.

Leia had cut the line and reinforced the blockade line with dozens more launched starfighters, swarming the Hapan Dragon but not firing. Essentially bluffing the Admiral to shoot at them. She had a limited set of options - but regular updates from Captain Teems and Major Tong - her Dragon was in hot pursuit of the megafreighter with their battle platforms aboard, and was about to reach Oba Diah.

Admiral Tomsini had the ability to address the gathered Sith aboard the Star Home back at Hapes, as did Serapis if he wasn’t present there himself.

For now, the blockade had not yet turned into an invasion - but it might, if she misplayed this moment.

Not that Leia was willing to talk anymore - even if she allowed them to recover their dead.

Impasse, or... opportunity?

—-
Oba Diah

The ship of Lord Sabel caught up with the ship of Manticore, Bernael, Iudex and Shimmer at Oba Diah - there was no way into the Akkadese Maelstrom without arriving at the former Pyke world first.

Shimmer spent that time mostly unclothed, but one could hardly say precisely what occurred. We’d have to see, that we would. (If anything.)

But from the moment they arrived, they would have two surprises.

One, a Trade Federation megafreighter bearing Kuati colours appeared, and the next, a Hapan Battle Dragon. Of course, Captain Teems and Major Tong would he surprised to see a smaller ship bearing Hapan command codes, and hesitate in their pursuit -

They did send an update to Admiral Tomsini that the megafreighter launched into the Akkadese Maelstrom, and they were poised to pursue -

Unless ordered otherwise.

And Manticore and Bernael (and Iudex if paying attention) would now have an update as to their seats in the True Sith Order - and Soliloquy’s elevation to the Triumvirate in the absence of Lord Haretisch, following his time as Reluctant Acting Emperor (RAE for short, perhaps).

The Chiss Lord Sabel would also have to regroup with them, of course. Zestus eyed the megafreighter as it vanished, and the Battle Dragon which hung as if intending to go but unsure if it had permission to do so.

“The Attendant didn’t follow us,” he commented absently.

TAG: @Lady Belligerent, @Mitth_Fisto, @greyjedi125, @HanSolo29, @QueenSabe7, @darthbernael, @darthhelinith, @Silvertough, @Shadowsun, @DarthIshyZ, @Adalia-Durron, @Nehru Amidala, @Darth_wanderguard

Requested combo: Silvertough and GM for Iudex and Shimmer.

Requested combo: Shadowsun and GM for Azathoth and Voice.

Requested combos: Greyjedi125, DarthBernael and DarthIshyZ and maybe Adalia-Durron for Oba Diah orders and discussion between Manticore, Bernael, Teems, Tong and Tomsini as applicable.

Singles otherwise!
—-
IC: ????
Returning to orbit, 35 ABY, aboard Oovo IV

As the Kaminoan travelled to the orbiting ship of the Five, a powerful Force presence stabbed into his mind, forging a connection notwithstanding that whoever it was, they were very far away.

So you’re part of the past I must kill.

The voice was muffled, as if behind a mask.

It was also sharp, and mocking.

TAG: @Darth Cocytus (combo)

 

IC Renn
Arrival of the Emperor[/b]

Renn didn’t realize he’d been holding his breath as the shuttle landed and the Sith stepped off of it. That was, until the glitter cannons went off and Insipid laughed. At which point he let out an explosive breath, smiling deeply as he did so. ’Thank the ancients.’ he thought.

His hand reached out, squeezing Helinith’s as Insipid’s gaze raked over the gathered Sith. At the smile that was bestowed upon he and Helinith, he grinned in return, even with the command that the Emperor had given he was certainly the same being that had brought them together in the first place before taking them to visit Abeloth in the past and then tossing them through a time/space portal and to this place.

Behind the Emperor ranged three female beings and three male. Based on how they stood, their proximity or distance from Insipid gave him an idea of their place in the hierarchy, two of the women were the closest and seemed of the sort of power level to be a High Lord or more. Another of the males had the same feeling although his presence in the Force was odd, as though it touched him but he was almost blind to it, save for a bond to one of the powerful women. The Chagrian male had power but not that level and the last...he had all the earmarks of an apprentice.

He had a feeling that the introductions would be made, and shortly. But then another chortling laugh escaped him as Insipid took the holocron that Soliloquy had in his possession and cracked it open, drinking of his own essence. It had been so long since he’d seen anything like it and the ability and power he knew Insipid had made the display not as surprising as it would be otherwise.

And then the Emperor spoke once more,

“Follow me to the Round Room. It is time for us to be numbered, and our hierarchy, for the last time, redefined.”

He let himself be caught up in the wake of Insipid’s passage, as all the others did. The trip was short, to the Round Room and he waited as he saw the thrones inside once more. As Insipid took his seat, the highest, he gestured, one by one and the others were shown their own place in the hierarchy. Insipid, the Emperor, was of course highest. Lady Bellorum, ’Ahh I was right about one of the woman, a Triumvir…’ was second. Soliloquy, and at this Renn grinned that his little brother still couldn’t escape power as a Triumvir, was third.

The fourth seat was empty. The fifth seat was filled by one he learned was named High Lady Syren. One of the males, introduced as High Lord Aryan Graul, occupied the sixth. Beneath Graul, under what had to be the High Lord seats, was the seventh, assigned to Serapis. Eighth was the male that looked like a toyboy, Ike, for whatever reason the Emperor had for such a placement.

Ninth was also empty, due, he was sure as with the fourth, to the absence of its owner. Helinith was tenth, and he took the seat indicated next to her, at eleventh. Twelfth was vacant, for the same reasons as fourth and ninth. Thirteenth, was the last of the females that had accompanied Insipid, introduced as Hekate.

Once the seats were filled or assigned Insipid spoke again,

“Fourth and absent is of course High Lord Manticore, and similarly ninth is Lord Bernael, and twelfth is Lord Iudex.”

Insipid barely gave them time to react to the assignments before he began to speak once more. Renn listened intently, making sure he marked any important point the Emperor had to say. When the subject of Hapes came up, and their place with regard to it, he frowned. ’Wonderful, still have to play noble...I think my little Craziness would agree, we were hoping to be able to let loose and get back to causing chaos.’ his thought tinged morosely.

As he gazed around the room he noticed that the Chagrian had something he recognized, vaguely. He recalled a similar sceptre in Insipid’s hands when he took them to see the Chaos Goddess and then again before they were sent through to here, making him wonder how or whether the apparent Sith was going to be able to keep it, in the coming days.

His musings almost made him miss Insipid’s remarks about the fleet, and Star Home. That bit gave him a start though, remembering the ‘kids’. He leaned over until he was close to Helinith’s ear, whispering, ”If we’re all going, and Star Home too, we need to get the ‘kids’ clear so they don’t get destroyed.”

Sitting back up, he directed his gaze to the Emperor, ”Lord, I am not sure how you desire the order of battle to go. And I cannot speak for Admiral Tomsini but I would believe that after Helinith won the admiration and loyalty of the Hapans, she and I will need to come with or the Hapans may balk at following the Sith into this battle. In that case,” he glanced at Helinith, ”our place would be here on Star Home as the fleet travels.”

TAGS: @Mitth_Fisto, @darthhelinith, @Sinrebirth, @Shadowsun, @HanSolo29, @QueenSabe7, @Lady Belligerent, @Nehru_Amidala, @DarthIshyZ, @Adalia-Durron, @greyjedi125, @Silvertough, @E. L.Knight

 

IC: Darth Insipid
The Round Room - The Thirteen Thrones

The Sith Emperor regarded the comments of Lord Renn. The Sith was back, and Insipid nodded.

Lord, I am not sure how you desire the order of battle to go. And I cannot speak for Admiral Tomsini but I would believe that after Helinith won the admiration and loyalty of the Hapans, she and I will need to come with or the Hapans may balk at following the Sith into this battle. In that case,”, Serapis glanced at Helinith, ”our place would be here on Star Homeas the fleet travels.”

The Emperor regarded Bellorum. “As long as we have a strong forward deployment, I do not mind if some Sith remain here.” His eyes swept on Azathoth, who seemed distracted, but he pressed on.

“We stand here opposed by Snoke, a darkness of great power and unknown origin. But we must think too of the future.” He lightly gnawed at his thumb. “The Dark Lord Bellorum could be placed to remain behind, or perhaps Dark Lord Soliloquy.”

“But we need to send the largest force we can.” Insipid continued. “Snoke is connected to the Change. In our time, the End of Time saw the Old Ones escape from the Well of the Dark Side. This happens over a hundred and sixty odd years after the Battle of Yavin because of a Change caused by Darth Caedus, but here, the Change has already occurred - the Empire collapsed at the Battle of Jakku.”

“Snoke is key to unravelling that mystery.”

He eyed the other Sith and their views of his first words. “But I look forward to hearing from all of you as to your views.”

TAGS: @Mitth_Fisto, @darthhelinith, @Sinrebirth, @Shadowsun (continue combo ‘Sun), @HanSolo29, @QueenSabe7, @Lady Belligerent, @Nehru_Amidala, @DarthIshyZ
—-
IC: Leia Organa Solo
Aboard the MC85 cruiser, blockade line

Leia studied the display. The blockade wasn’t strong enough to chase the Hapan Battle Dragon to Oba Diah and she didn’t know if she could encourage the Senate to do much more.

The woman pursed her lips. She needed to do something to change things. Leia could send frigates and corvettes after the Hapan Battle Dragon and the megafreighter… but that would get them destroyed.

Leia swallowed her pride. “This is Leia Organa Solo, can I speak to Estrella Tomsini please.” She hesitated. “Woman to woman?”

She was rolling the dice on this, but she was running out of ideas. Without coming back to the Senate, or providing Ackbar with a strong enough reason to ignore the Chancellor…

@Adalia-Durron (one-on-one combo)

TAG: USER=671549]@greyjedi125[/USER], @Silvertough, @darthbernael, to finalise combo and I shall do further TAG(s).

IC: Tor Valum
Remnicore

The world was what it was.



There was the crashed monolith, there however many millennia and responsible for the devastated state of the world.

The Jedi and Sith fought over it during the Hundred Years Darkness.

Cocytus stood on the world with Tor Valum.

He would not remember when he had arrived, but he would sense the ship of the Five above him.

I wanted some privacy.

Tor Valum was hanging from a broken statue.

The Change is not for the ears of those who worship the Architects and Old Ones.

TAG: @Darth Cocytus (combo)[/b]

 

IC: Aryan Graul
Round Room, Aboard the Star Home, Hapes

Aryan remained reticent, his hands resting casually upon his lap as the meeting began. Despite his unique situation—the one that designated him as the only member of this diverse group who could not touch the Force—he had assumed his position atop the sixth throne to serve as a ‘High Lord.’

From his perspective, he deserved this promotion. He was just as qualified as the other Sith gathered in this cabal, especially after everything he had endured under their scrutiny. The knowledge he had recently procured through his awakening also augmented his worth. His perseverance had elevated him to this point, and he was not about to allow the opportunity to slip through his fingers.

A hint of a smirk pulled at the corner of his mouth as he shifted his weight to watch and observe the others. There was a mixture of old and new faces scattered around the central dais.

Bellorum, Soliloquy, and Insipid occupied the topmost tier, even as the latter prattled on in his usual grandiose manner. The Emperor had an endearing quality, particularly when he spoke in this way. But as Aryan studied him under a hooded gaze, he noted a subtle change in his demeanor. The man’s eyes diverted from the others and made a quick circuit between Amedda, the Chancellor’s staff, Aryan, and then back again. It was a brief slip, though it was enough to garner Graul’s attention.

He filed it away at the back of his mind for future reference and carried on.

The fourth throne remained vacant, which brought him to Syren, who sat directly to his left as one of his fellow High Lords. Regardless of her disheveled appearance, she still looked quite radiant, and yet...he did not allow his gaze to linger on her for long. There was an underlying tension between them that was palpable. It arose from his decision to follow Insipid’s lead instead of fleeing with her to some distant world in the Outer Rim; she viewed it as an obvious lack of judgment on his part.

But it was a shortsighted perspective. She failed to understand the overarching strategy of his plan and how this would serve as the framework to finally achieve his goals. In that sense, she was being selfish. Didn’t she realize that running away would put him at a distinct disadvantage? It was clear that she had not considered the impacts on his life; he was not ready to forfeit his dreams.

That thought festered beneath the surface, fueling his anger, even as he turned to regard the rest of the Sith hierarchy. By the time his gaze finally came to rest on Ike, who resided under Serapis on the eighth throne, he was in a particularly irritable mood. The foppish man only exacerbated the situation by flashing a cruel smile in his direction, and Aryan silently seethed.

He was unable to fully explain the extent of his hatred for this man; his memories were frustratingly vague on the matter. However, he could not ignore the intrinsic nature of his emotions. It was something that resonated with him on a personal level, and he vowed to uncover the truth.

Aryan conveyed these sentiments to Ike through an intense glare, his blue-gray eyes reflecting his conviction.

Rounding out the rest of their number was a strange tree-like creature, Hekate, and a younger woman who he recognized from a rather tumultuous point in his past. They had crossed paths on Coruscant nearly twenty years ago, during the final battle of the Second Imperial Civil War. This woman, Helinith, had helped him and his family escape from the Armand Isard Correctional Facility. For that, he was forever grateful.

Bringing a hand to his chin, Aryan offered her a respectful nod. He was older now, but hopefully, she would still recall the short time they had spent together all those years ago.

Once Insipid had introduced everyone physically present in the room, he proceeded to clarify the empty thrones. They would eventually belong to three absent parties—Lord Manticore, Lord Bernael, and Lord Iudex.

Aryan narrowed his eyes curiously. It was easy to brush aside Manticore, who he was already familiar with, and Iudex, who he viewed as merely another name he would need to grow accustomed to, but Bernael was different. He piqued his interest in a peculiar way as he triggered a distant memory. Much like Helinith, he reminded him of someone who had served alongside him during the war. They had been allies, albeit grudgingly, but they had fought together all the same.

Was it possible that this was the same Bernael who had swooped in to save him above Taivas?

Even as Aryan pondered that probability, Insipid carried on with his speech to outline their immediate objectives. This involved a call to arms and a plan to eliminate the entity known as Snoke.

A scowl crossed Aryan’s features at that notion. He certainly wasn’t going to argue after what had transpired at Bedlam, but the memory lapses that encompassed the time following that battle was still a cause for concern. He remembered how he had utilized his TIE Defender to take out an Eclipse-class dreadnought—it was truly a work of ingenuity—but then…nothing.

Everything else was a blank slate.

Is that what Insipid had meant when he referenced the Change? Was it all connected?

Wait.

It was something…more?

As if on cue, Aryan was able to extract a wide array of information from the deep recesses of his mind, a tangible link that highlighted the significance of the elusive Change. He saw different timelines and scenarios, all of them ascribing to the idea that the Force had a flow and one fixed endpoint. Those who were aware of these configurations could hypothetically adjust the timelines to adhere to their ideal vision of the future.

Or they could wreak havoc and induce the End of Time.

Suddenly, the situation with Snoke became a lot more critical.

"That is only the beginning of our understanding," Aryan mused aloud, his gaze distant as he stroked his beard in pensive contemplation. "We are dealing with far more than two parallel realities. There are other points where the Change has already occurred, splintering off to create new timelines that mirror our own." He stopped short of providing details about the ones he had seen, and instead allowed his eyes to slowly survey the room. "I agree that Snoke will do everything in his power to exploit that knowledge, so intercepting him is crucial."

Aryan canted his head, that perpetual smirk evident on his features. "However, I am not a soldier. I have withdrawn from the front long ago." While he did not openly accuse Insipid or anyone else present, he intended that last part to serve as a subtle rebuke for dragging him into both the Mortis and Bedlam conflicts. He had no desire to repeat that mistake for the third time.

"But that does not mean I am not in a position to contribute," the former Prime Minister continued after a short pause. "Referring back to what our phytoid friend suggested," he waved his hand lazily to indicate Renn, "I would volunteer myself to remain behind and assume a non-combat role in this engagement. That would better suit my strengths."

TAG: @Sinrebirth; @Lady Belligerent; @darthbernael; @darthhelinith; @QueenSabe7; @Mitth_Fisto; @DarthIshyZ; @Silvertough; @Shadowsun; @Nehru_Amidala

 

OOC Fun combo with @greyjedi125, @Adalia-Durron, @DarthIshyZ, and @Sinrebirth

IC Hate, Hunger, Sabel, Teems, Tong, and Tomsini
Try as we might, they keep trying to join us in our Mission

As the yacht made it’s approach to the Maurauder Sabel caught the comment from Zestus. ”Possibly an opportunity lost, for now.” he murmured then cast his eyes over the megafreighter and the Battle Dragon that appeared. ”What do you make of them?” he hand gestured lazily at the two ships before their craft disappeared inside the hangar of the Maurauder.

He received a thought from Lord Hunger that suggested he join that Sith and Lord Hate on the bridge. ”Well, whatever or whyever they are here we shall find out when we meet the others. Prepared, my Captain?”, asked as he stood, clipping his armor’s helm to his belt.

~~~On the Bridge~~~

Bernael kept one eye on the holo of the events being broadcast from the Round Room as he also observed his Shadows and the Aran Tyr studying the two newest arrivals to Oba Deah. Glancing at his brother, ”It seems our Emperor has wasted no time in setting the new structure of the Order. And it seems Soliloquy cannot get out from a high position in the Sith.” he commented dryly.

A few moments passed and he sensed the Chiss and his companion approaching the bridge. At the same time another channel opened and a second holo appeared, revealing several Hapans. The way the holo was split indicated that the female, in the uniform of a Hapan admiral, was in a secondary location. His eyebrow rose as they appeared, ”I take it two of you are the ones in command of that Battle Dragon?” His voice was humorless, cold, unappreciative of more bodies joining the ‘party’.

The hatch to the bridge opened, Sabel and Zestus joining them. Sabel nodded in respect to Hate and Hunger, ”Once more we must face a powerful foe together. This one will be as troublesome as what happened at the Star Forge I suspect.” He glanced at the holos. As he listened to the first, ”I see your Emperor has returned, and it sounds as though he intends to bring every able body here, how will that affect our plans?” At the second he noticed the Hapan admiral, a chuckle drawn from him. He nodded at her, ”So you are who they found when they refused my suggestions. How do the chains of command suit you?” he asked her.

Estrella listened to the male speak, she glowered. "You assume incorrectly, I am in charge, Admiral Tomsini." She paused for a moment, "and believe me when I say I am as unhappy about this arrangement I believe you to be." Her tone was cold and commanding. Another spoke and she allowed a cold smile. "Why do you assume I was found? The chains of Command are not mine to be hindered by. Command suits me well, thank you." If ice could drip from her words, it would have.

Manticore arrived on the bridge, without the Pykestaff in tow. The only one who would have any inkling as to what had transpired, would be Lord Hunger

Walking silently, the Zabrak sith lord took his place next to his brother-in-arms and offered a knowing nod. Emperor Insipid had wasted no time in consolidating all sith forces under his rule once again; much as it should be.

The Maurauder had arrived at Oba Deah and joined with Lord Sabel and his forces, but that would not be all, or so it would seem.

Manticore offered a respectful nod to Sabel and his officer, for they had earned his respect.

A com channel was opened and a set of Hapans were revealed. A Male and a Female. Familiar to some, he surmised by the ensuing banter.

The combat theatre was already taking shape with allied ships arriving as well as their leaders. Manticore wished to take a measure of the new figures first before interjecting. To that end, he simply observed and listened and also stretched out with his senses, to see what strategies would be offered in their hour of need. Internally, he was also acclimatizing himself to the new energies that flowed within him.

Perhaps after the mandatory posturing, they could all get down to business. They could ill afford to tarry here longer than what was absolutely necessary.

Arriving in-system, Major Tong noted several ships. Quite the convention here, she thought. Two of the other ships were older, but still looked deadly. She noted the exchange between this unnamed male and the Admiral and smiled softly. Admiral Tomsini didn't suffer fools lightly. That much had been proven. One person was named that she found curious. Another "Emperor." She was familiar with the Emperor that was back in Hapes and worked with the Queen Mother. This new one... was he supposed to supplant the other? Would that be a peaceful change of power or would there be more bloodshed. This didn't bode well for her home system at all.

She got closer to Captain Teems to whisper, "Plans still on to take the Lucrehulk? It seems a strange coincidence that these other ships would be conveniently here to greet them."

Captain Teems took the prompt. “My Lords, I appreciate your concerns but we must launch immediately. That Lucrehulk carries four battle platforms - enough to make whatever world they are deployed to defend a truly difficult endeavour. Supreme Commander Astarta had ordered them from Kuat to defend our borders from the New Republic.”

He was speaking up where he perhaps shouldn’t, but he needed to continue the pursuit.

“You are welcome aboard this Battle Dragon or to proceed separately, but please, we must not tarry.” He waited for the inevitable rebuke from Admiral Tomsini.

Zestus, besides Sabel, reflected on the moment. “I agree, sir. Kuat sells Golan battle stations, enough to fight a Star Destroyer to a standstill. If our enemy deploys them to the Akkadese Maelstrom, we will have a fight on our hands.”

Sabel laughed at Tomsini’s rebuke, then frowned in thought at Zestus’s response. ”However much the Hapans need the battle stations simple tactics state that depriving our foe of them is the wisest course.” He glanced at the female, ”Ah that Hapan pride. I see it is as strong as ever. The question is, will it stay as strong with all that has occurred and will soon do so?” his eyes glittered a ruby red as he asked.

Bernael had found the entire exchange, to this point, amusing. His gaze wandered to Sabel, ”Do we need to do the same for you and this Hapan admiral that we did for Iudex and Shimmer? amusement tinged his tone.

Sabel chuckled at that, ”I do believe Eleodie might be a bit put out if I did that. But do go on.”

Bernael’s gaze swung once more, facing the two male Hapans on their Battle Dragon, ”Major Tong, was it? Since you seem to not understand the forces you’re dealing with, allow me to elaborate.” One hand gestured to himself, ”Lord Hunger,” he pointed at Manticore, [color= 808000]”Lord Hate, although,”[/color] his head cocked to the side for a moment, ”he is a bit more now. No we are not dead, yes we’re the reason your treacherous Hapans didn’t kill you all.”

His arm swung, gesturing at the Maelstrom, ”In there, it seems, is the one who has orchestrated all that has gone on, to date. Your little pursuit has delayed our plans, our battle to destroy him. Feel free to deal with the Lucrehulk as you will, but Sabel’s recommendation is the most obvious choice.”

Major Tong stood by the captain at ready stance. So, the mission was still on, it seemed. She was confused. Lords? Lords?!? What was Captain Teems talking about? But she tried not to show it on her face. Clearly Teems was more in the know than any of their data suggested.

She turned to look at the gunners and the leader of the landing party. They were ready for their offensives, clearly. She checked the other participants on her pad. Reports coming from all over the ship that they were ready for the "go" order. She stated to Captain Teems, "Everyone is standing ready, sir."

Estrella had to decide, was she with this new 'Sith Lord', was she going to support the Hapan Queen Mother who she knew was another form of Sith, or ...........there was a third option. Looking carefully around the Bridge of the Thunderstar she began to weigh up her options and the lives of those around her. The decision she made would affect every person aboard the Battle Dragon and that was a heavy burden to bear. One she'd grown accustomed to bearing such things, but her choice right now was not clear. Turning back to face the transmitter she took a deep breath. "I offer you the assistance of my ships, High Lords of Hate and Hunger." Around her several of the bridge members gasped at her words. She had tried to get the titles correct, she held strong and decided to join the strongest leadership or at least the strongest she believed. Survival was a complicated game.

"A wise choice."

Lord Manticore's voice rasped from under his hood, layered with unspoken meanings, his fiery eyes burning like lit embers. He offered a slow nod of approval.

His keen senses were now enhanced significantly, thanks to his merging with the Darkstaff, and though he was still getting acclimated to the more 'esoteric' aspects of that union, the skills he already possessed where not only supercharged, but benefited from an even greater level of finesse than what he was previously capable. Manticore had felt and sensed the internal conflict from the Hapan Commander. This was 'natural'. The High Lord was more concerned with her final decision and the 'truthfulness' of it.

Indeed, Manticore was satisfied with her choice and sensed the normal amount of trepidation, which was also understandable. However, in the end, Snoke was everyone's enemy.

"Snoke must not be allowed another advantage. The Lucrehulk must be stopped. Now. If we can slice into its systems, then let's do it. If not, then Ion Cannons are also an option. At worst, we board or breach the command structure. Snoke works on several layers at a time, one always being a distraction. He is trying to split our forces and delay us, even as his ultimate plan proceeds unchallenged. One team should deal with the platform, while the other proceeds inside the Maelstrom. Thoughts? Two minutes, we should deploy in three, if not less."

Captain Teems spoke up. “I agree, we must depart. I would recommend that the smaller ships advance ahead of us, and provide us with firing solutions. On arrival we shall fire immediately and hopefully catch them by surprise.”

He eyed Major Tong and the Admiral. “We’ll also send an update to you on arrival, Admiral, so you can plan your attack. The New Republic won’t easily let you out of the Cluster, but as soon as you can join us, we shall stand ready.” He saluted her.

“If my lords agree,” the Captain hazarded. “I would suggest your faster ships leave immediately and we shall follow. I will give orders for my fighters to prepare for immediate launch on reversion.”

The Hapan man was speaking words that made sense but he was male and that limited his power in the ordinary Hapan structure. But Admiral Tomsini had chosen to throw her lot in with the mission to destroy Snoke, and so they were all choosing action over the inaction of politicking.

Sabel’s eyes glittered at Tomsini’s statement, a finger tapped his lips for a moment in thought. He nodded at Lord Hate, agreeing with the male Hapan captain. ”Welcome to the cause of destroying Snoke, Admiral Tomsini.” He spun slightly, his gaze turning to the Shadows after a glance at Bernael, ”Target the connection points of the ball to the outer circle of the lucrehulk, cut off the command and the rest will shut down, leaving the cargo free to be picked up.”

Bernael nodded to the Shadows, that Sabel’s commands were to be followed as his in this battle. ”As soon as the signal is given, fire as you were directed and bring us in quickly. Do not deploy the fighters, let’s not betray that particular weapon yet. Unless we must.”

He leaned over the shoulder of the Shadow on comms, ”Send Tomsini our coordinates, and tie her in to our nets.” Standing straight again, he faced her in the pickup, ”Coordinates sent, we are factoring your ship’s capabilities into our calculations. As soon as you arrive we can advance past this obstacle.”

Glancing at Manticore he sent a thought, ’Let me guess, Pykestaff?’ He knew his brother would catch the meaning behind the question. ’Integrated enough for our upcoming battle?’

In battle, response time made the difference between life and death. A command needed to be trusted and followed implicitly, or disaster was sure to follow. Manticore knew this critical feature in the most intimate way. His saber staff was attuned to him in ways that an untrained mind could not imagine. Should the weapon suffer any variance in response outside his will, or malfunction fractionally, he would not be alive today.

This is why he followed Bernael's example. If Lord Hunger trusted Lord Sabel enough to entrust him his Shadows in their bid to destroy Snoke once and for all, then he had no reservation in doing the same concerning his Aran Tyr, his personal warrior-guards. They were all going to need the best tools and the best weapons in this engagement, and Lord Hate refused to allow his pride, which was eclipsed by his personal hate of Snoke, to hinder a potential victory.

"Lord Sabel, you hereby have command of my Aran Tyr. You are the chief tactician among us, use them to the utmost."

Manticore conveyed his commands to the leader of the Aran Tyr and bid them present themselves to Lord Sabel.

Turning slightly to Lord Hunger...

Yes, my understanding continues to expand with each passing moment brother. You and I have returned from the Abyss far stronger than we were, before we shed our mortal coil. Snoke has no idea what he will be facing. I imagine the Emperor would want his own shot at the Supreme Leader as well, and possibly Lord Soliloquy. I believe Snoke's days are numbered.

Turning again to the gathered command, Manticore nodded his agreement on the plan to deal with the lucrehulk, then observed as the mission was set in motion. Not wishing to waste another moment, the zabrak indicated that he was off to board his own ship.

"Good Hunting." He said aloud to the command staff.

His next thought was sent to Bernael with much greater clarity than ever before.

This is the moment we've been waiting for brother; into the Maelstrom - and a second shot a Snoke.

A predatory smirk graced Manticore's black lips, before he turned fully and headed to board his vessel.

Finally, it was time for things to 'End', one way or the other.

Sabel nodded in respect to both Lord Hunger and Lord Hate, he would bring their people back and use them as wisely as possible. One last time he turned to the holo of the Hapan Admiral, ”When you arrive, meet me aboard this vessel and we will coordinate actions to assist Hate and Hunger in their assault.”

Turning to the chief Shadow and chief Aran Tyr he gave commands. He directed that until Admiral Tomsini arrived the Maurauder would only fire at the area he’d targeted, the ‘bridge’ between the command sphere and the ring. Those of the two sets of troops that would be flying their fighters would take to them and fly a Combat Air Patrol around the two Lords, diverting as necessary to create false impressions of where the assault would come from. When the Hapan Admiral and her ship arrived the second job would fall to her My’til fighters.

As Sabel discussed things with the ‘Guard’ of Bernael and Manticore, Bernael chuckled, ‘listening’ to his brother. ’Yes, Snoke has garnered a stable of beings who will hammer him into oblivion, finally.’

He returned Sabel’s nod as Manticore departed the bridge. Holding up a clenched fist to the trio discussion the operation, ”Good hunting.” Striding from the bridge he swiftly descended to his fighter, ensured it was fully operational and loaded, then climbed into the cockpit, his flight and armor helmet forming around his head, melding with his mask.

As the engines roared to life, a single thought filled him, ’This is not the end. It is not even the beginning of the end. But it is, perhaps, the end of the beginning.’*

Estrella gave a nod of acknowledgment to her new leadership then proceeded to listen carefully to the conversation she was not privy to. She needed to rid herself of the New Republic, of Leia, and she needed to do it in a way that wasn't going to make a mess. She turned to the Comms officer. "Get me Leia Organa now."

TAGS: @Mitth_Fisto, @darthhelinith, @Sinrebirth, @Shadowsun, @HanSolo29, @QueenSabe7, @Lady Belligerent, @Nehru_Amidala, @DarthIshyZ, @Adalia-Durron, @greyjedi125, @Silvertough, @E. L.Knight

*A quotation from a 1942 speech by Winston Churchill concerning the Second Battle of El Alamein.

 

IC Renn
Round Room

Renn was as much listening to the discussion, including the Emperor’s words as he was paying attention to the rapid growth of Baby. One thing that intrigued him, in the room, was the distant look in the eyes of one of the apprentices, the returned Insipid’s apprentice. Something was going on there and he could sense the energy but not the words or the substance of what was occurring. From the looks the man was giving, it was intense though.

However, he had already stated the position that he believed was the best one for he and Helinith. Thankfully others among the Circle believed similarly. And, at the moment it seemed that both High Lord Soliloquy and one of the ones he didn’t know, High Lord Graul intended to remain here as well. That would give them good strength here at Hapes and assist to secure their base here.

He did fully agree with what Soliloquy had stated, that a smaller force would be better to send, even if it contained many of the stronger Sith. And, as stated, Leia was most likely doing all she could to get the New Republic to approve the invasion as they debated here.

He looked to his little Craziness, stroking the tendril wrapped around his arm before his fingers touched her arm. A smile formed, they would do what they must because that was their way, and, hopefully, cause extreme chaos to the NR in the process.

He was also sure that the vampire and Lord Hate had their own plan to take on Snoke and that they could either use the backup once the force got there, or a major distraction in the form of the powerful Sith that would go. He nodded as he listened to the higher ranked lords. There was nothing else he needed to add to the discussion so he looked up at the Emperor, nodded deeply, expressing that he’d made his point, before he returned to giving his attention to Helinith and their ‘child’.

TAGS: @Mitth_Fisto, @darthhelinith, @Sinrebirth, @Shadowsun, @HanSolo29, @QueenSabe7, @Lady Belligerent, @Nehru_Amidala, @DarthIshyZ, @Adalia-Durron, @greyjedi125, @Silvertough, @E. L.Knight

 

IC: Dark Lady Bellorum
aboard the Star Home

Only her eyes moved as she sat listening to Insipid’s display of temerity, but her attention was focused on those assembled.

One eye twitched slightly as she gazed over at Graul, it would take awhile to get over how he accused her of the Valieri incident. Which caused her think of Syren, those two were damned combustible. How dare Bellorum be accused of something she didn’t do after providing them with the evidence they asked for to solve their issue.

Next she looked to Azahoth and all she felt was contempt. Maybe it was just petty jealousy that he was her Master’s pet now, but she shoved that thought aside because that was beneath her. She’d have to keep a close eye on him.

“As long aswe have a strong forward deployment, I donot mind if some Sith remain here.”

Insipid’s words caught her attention, and she met his eyes and nodded slowly to indicate that she would be the one to stay if that was necessary. She’d had no say when Insipid had cast her away before, this time she wanted a say in her future.

Tag: @Sinrebirth and all gathered at SithCon.

 

IC: Darth Insipid
The Round Room, aboard the Star Home, Hapes

Matters began to shift and reveal.

He could not immediately comment on the plans of Syren, but by and large everyone else had came to a decision.

There had been a few lectures which undoubtedly would not go down well, but Insipid did not need an entirely unified Order at his beck and call. He had seen many times before that a disunited Order served him as well as a unified one, as long as they were still loyal to him. Which it seemed they were; indeed, the criticisms gave him a chance to appear magnanimous.

That and Serapis was going to earn himself a throat-crushing if this continued.

He chuckled, appreciating the support.

His hand raised for them to cease speaking. "Thank you, my Lords. But notwithstanding the apparent priorities of those who would prefer to remain behind, we do require a reserve team, and it serves the Order well that it be so well equipped." The Sith Emperor nodded. "Dark Lady Bellorum and Dark Lord Soliloquy will lead the reserve forces, with her High Lord Graul, Lady Helinith, and Lord Renn. I trust you will each ensure the Hapan realm remains secure." His eyes swept to Ike. "I would request Lord Ike remain also."

His lover (ex or otherwise) raised an eyebrow, but otherwise crossed his leg and shrugged. "Sure, whatever."

He eyed his apprentice, who seemed elsewhere. Insipid rapped a mental knuckle on his mind to remind him to concentrate. But then again, politics did occasionally cause one's eyes to glaze over, for the uninterested. Azathoth was seemingly one of those. No matter, Insipid did not require another politician, not when he had Aryan... which was why Ike was here.

He had not missed the expression between the two of them, and Insipid needed that unravelled.

But he continued speaking. "I shall lead the reinforcements for High Lord Manticore and Lords Bernael and Iudex. Please ensure that you have collected whatever items you require from the Hapan armory, or the stocks of the Luxury Elite, before we depart. Contact me if you have any unusual requests. Lord Serapis, Lady Hekate, I appreciate your desire to assist. Apprentice Azathoth, I expect you to be well equipped for this trial."

Trial, came the voice in Azathoth's head. My boy, he is antagonising you, is he not?

Darth Insipid had already ordered a converted Imperial shuttle to be commandeered by the Sith. It had been upgraded with heavier weapons and shields, cutting hard at the cargo space but he had room for the Sith who were accompanying him. "We shall meet in the hangar in one hour."

At that, he leapt down from his Throne, and stalked out.

He expected his Sith to depart with him, and for those remaining to do so with Dark Lady Bellorum and Acting-Dark Lord Soliloquy.

Of course, some of the Sith may very well choose to leave Bellorum's presence for their own projects. Ike for his part dropped down and gave Aryan a look; he wanted to talk. There was an insistence to his gaze. Now. Otherwise, Amedda bowed to the Emperor, and Inspid paused for a moment before he left.

He eyed the scepter, and then, deciding against something, headed out.

There was one more thing of note.

On Syren's inner left arm would appear a note. It appeared to have been carved there, and healed as a scar - a tattoo in blood, arguably. She would never have seen it before, and remember that, and also just as suddenly remember that she had seen it there for her entire time out of stasis. Both statements were true, arguably, because it had been added to her arm...

Come to Dwartii; alone. Graul is not to be trusted. The truth will set you free.

It was a mystery.

But it was also a path.

Her path.

TAG: @Lady Belligerent, @Darth_wanderguard, @Mitth_Fisto, @darthhelinith, @darthbernael (singles in the Round Room or otherwise as co-GM Bell so declares)

@HanSolo29 (combo with Sinre as Ike)

@QueenSabe7 (single or combo of your choice)

@Nehru_Amidala, @DarthIshyZ, @Shadowsun (singles, PM me what you raid from the armory)
---
IC: Colonel Teems
Arriving in the Akkadese Maelstrom, now, the Maw

It had taken longer than expected for the ships to arrive at the Maw.

Long enough for Teems to be concerned; for him to put his crew through two full drills - one disabling the battleship before it deployed, one disabling the nearest platform while using it as a shield from the others.

Long enough for Iudex and Shimmer to become well acquainted with their uses for each other; even long enough for them to waken, have another go if they so wished, and to acknowledge the need to dress and head to the hangar.

Long enough for Zestus to have checked and double checked every piece of data in Sabel's pre-Endor records for a hint of this project.

Long enough for Manticore to become aware of his ability to flow-walk, that it was tied to his location, and he could not travel into the future because it was too tangled. In the words of the Darkstaff, that is. It did give him glimpses of the Maw in the past, with Star Destroyers patrolling the depths with prototype TIE Brutes, a mad dash by a YT-1300 through secret paths, and even the question of whether the Ones created this cluster of black holes was answered; they did. In-fact, the only difference seemed to be from the Battle of Endor, but there were shadows of Change before. He was close to the answer... to the why.

Long enough for Bernael to fully recover from the wounds to his soul from Abeloth, or rather, the memory of Abeloth that had became sentient. For him to nurse an understanding that Claiomh had been here, and had again vanished. For him to remember, or perhaps misremeber, other loves and losses.

The Hapan Battle Dragon and their smaller escorts arrived -

And it was there.

An Executor-class Super Star Destroyer.

Pennant code Eclipse

The Trade Federation battleship behind it, freighters already removing pieces of battle platforms.

A Death Star behind it, resonating with a terrible fury in the dark side, a swirling of gravitic energy being drawn into it.

A laughter permeating the entire black hole cluster.

Snoke was here.

The comms crackled; the SSD was hailing them. "This is Grand Admiral Sloane. I would consult your Force before you die."

The nineteen kilometer monster opened fire, and Captain Teems had time to look at the Major and shrug.

"Of course I was killed by a woman."

The Battle Dragon vanished into a detonation, killing all aboard.

TAG: @greyjedi125, @darthbernael, @Silvertough (mention for @DarthIshyZ)

TAG: @Adalia-Durron (combo continues)

TAG: @Darth Cocytus (TAG elsewhere)