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

OOC: A combo with @Sinrebirth

IC: Insipid and Azathoth
Fears

"What can I do for you that my husband has not already?"

Azathoth hesitated, the way Insipid emphasized 'husband' made a chill go down his spine. It was not new news to him by any means... but...

"It is for that very reason he unsettles me so... following me around like a dog, what is he thinking?" he spoke in a moment, his emotional guard dropped. He looked to Insipid, his long flowing hair, his features that were ever so similar to his own. It was as if...

"But that is not what I wished to discuss with you, I have my questions on my mind, many, many... "

He paused looking elsewhere for a moment. Where to begin?

"Do you recall the vision I suffered before we came to this time?"

As he said this he recalled the very vision, the face of the white-eyed man, a face only he had seen. Staring into his very soul as he stood in that cold, dark amphitheater.



And while Azathoth knew of Palpatine, who Insipid had described as the most successful Sith to have ever lived, he did not know what the man looked like so to him the identity of this white-eyed man remained a mystery.

“I recall,” said Insipid. “A vision of a seemingly blind version of the late Emperor Palpatine.”

His arms folded, ire about it Ike briefly forgotten. “It antagonises you?”

Azathoth eyes widened slightly, before becoming focused once more.

"What? But Snoke said... that liar..." he said quietly.

"When we assembled as Lords around the table, after our time on the Elite, a voice spoke to me, antagonizing me about my lack of Lordship, at the time I did not know who that voice was, I thought it was the white-eyed man, but later did I come to learn it was Snoke..."

This would be new information to Insipid, or so at least Azathoth thought, he was now becoming unsure what his former Master did and did not know.

"He seemed to know of my vision, and said you bluffed, that you had no idea who the white-eyed man was... but I suppose that was another lie,"

He paused, looking off to the side. Thinking for a moment.

"He also said you knew little to nothing of that vision,"

He paused, his mind agitated as he compiled his thoughts and this newfound information.

Insipid smiled drily. “Yes, I knew that Snoke was antagonising you. I could hear his voice. He pretended to be me, to start, after all.”

The man chuckled. “I wanted to see how you would respond, if you would align with him - if you would fall for his lies, and betray me.”

“He told you I knew nothing, and he told the truth, but I’ve met Palpatine… Snoke’s mannerisms and words gave away the truth of that vision….” Insipid’s voice was amused. “Which is why I know we’ve had our complete and utter victory. Do you know what your vision showed me?”

Azathoth began to nod, he had suspected that Insipid knew more than he let on, that his final trial had indeed been more than the surface appearance of it. He had more that he wished to say, but he was more curious by Insipid's question.

"No... what did it show you?" The young Sith stated simply, his eyes coming to Insipid's studying them with quiet awe.

“Clearly Snoke was a Palpatine clone, and the Palpatine is dead.” He crowed. “Palpatine would never have allowed a mutated duplicate of himself to roam free, consorting with Old Ones. Snoke was created on Exegol - he didn’t want you looking into it this his deceit - but now he’s dead it doesn’t matter.”

A finger raised. “Sloane created the First Order, and Snoke took it over. If she knows about Exegol, she’ll burn it to the ground. If she doesn’t, it doesn’t matter.”

He had a self-satisfied grin to his Dave. It all made perfect sense to Insipid. But Azathoth would feel a wrongness to his conclusion deep within him.

Azathoth shook his head slowly, mulling over Insipid's reasoning for a moment.

"But my Lord... do you not recall he spoke of the World Between Worlds, the place Between realities, the Epitaph Games... he wanted to create an Echo in the Force to manipulate the very fabric of reality, to create a being that could venture between realities. If that was Snoke... why did he never speak on these possibilities? I too thought with Snoke dead that this threat was over, but knowing now the White-Eyed man is Palpatine..."

He paused for a moment, his eyes growing in fear as he recalled the end of the vision, Palpatine snapping his neck with such ease, granted he was a mere acolyte then, but despite how far he had grown... he knew that this being, whatever it was... was far beyond his current capabilities.

"What if Snoke was just that, a failed experiment to create this being that could venture through the Between as we did but instead with such ease that it is like breathing to them, such a being if it existed could destroy everything we have built."

He gritted his teeth, the fear clawing against his skin, and yet it fueled him. Fueled him in his request. He had spent the time between the battle and feast reading on the past exploits of the Sith, formulating the strengths and weakness of each. And it all formed into this single request, a request that he hoped Insipid would recognize.

"After this feasting and glee, after this is all over...allow the Warrior Iudex, the Assassin Bernael, and myself, the Sorcerer Azathoth to at the very least investigate Exegol. If there is even the slightest chance Palpatine is alive... we must find out,"

Insipid looked at Azathoth hard.

A long moment passed between them, and he passed the time levitating a fourth glass to him. “If I grant this request, then it would be acknowledging your fear. Seeking to give you validation for it, rather than you growing beyond it.”

“Palpatine was dying in your vision…” Insipid swirled his glass and peered into the red ichor. “I can tell you that I have no knowledge of where Exegol is. It wasn’t in our timeline, or, wasn’t relevant. In our timeline, Palpatine hid on Byss, in the Deep Core, a world I’ve already checked and found nothing.”

His eyes returned to Azathoth. “I’m inclined to grant this, if only to eliminate the chance. But similarly…” his tone grew firm. “I won’t have an Underlord of the Sith act out of fear.”

Azathoth let out a sigh, his eyes refocusing as the fear slowly became under his control.

"Yes, you are right... and to think I preach to be the master of emotions and not the other way round..."

He closed his eyes, thinking about his ideology and how he was still striving to achieve that, just because he believed something did not always mean he could live up to that ideal. A tendril of anger within himself flared up before becoming subdued.

"Regardless of my fear, which now that I have stated my concern I have reigned in and subdued..." he was speaking in his usual tone again, the cold, calculated, pragmatic tone that he was known for. Not the uncharacteristic tone of fear a few moments prior.

"... it is also the logical and pragmatic thing to do, even if the probability is only 1%, that is too high a risk in my mind for us to sit comfortably as the Sith Order deals with other threats... such as that of Luke Skywalker."

His eyes looked to Insipid, filled with conviction, with purpose. He was one of the Sith. He was now part of this Order. And he would fight to protect it.

Now it was Insipid's turn to feel a rather unprofessional surge of fear. He paused, examined it, turned it over in his hands. "Luke Skywalker gave us a very specific warning not to cross paths with him. But, that being said, we will need to deal with him inevitably. He will found the Jedi anew, and then we will have many more problems. I fully expect the outright corruption of the New Republic to take some time... enough time for a New Jedi Order to be a thorn."

A stroke of his chin. "A trade, my friend. You'll prepare a mission to hunt Exegol, which may or may not be a threat, and I'll prepare one to deal with Luke Skywalker. We'll assess each others position, and our respective fears, and analyse it."

He regarded his pale skin for a moment.

"What do you say about that?"

Azathoth's face remained neutral, a bow of his head as he listened to the words of Insipid.

"I find that most agreeable"

He then gave a nod of satisfaction, before another, unrelated, question rose to his mind.

"There is another question on my mind, not one that poses a threat but does stick at the back of mind... Taanab, my time... there must have been many our Force Sensitives in that time, and I'm sure you could have figured out how to escape on your own... so why? Why did you come to Taanab and rescue me?"

Insipid continued to stare at his skin.

“A few reasons, actually, though don’t undersell how hard it was to find any sane Force users at the End of Time,” he groused.

“Why do you think I picked you?” His gaze swung to meet Azathoth’s eyes.

Azathoth's cold eyes came to look at Insipid's... seemingly a thousand thoughts, and considerations coming to his mind.

"Because you saw something in me..." he said without quite believing his own reason but was the only thing he dared to say. And what was this feeling... it was foreign to Azathoth. Not respect, although there was that too, no it was deeper than that.

“I saw myself,” Insipid said wryly. “A young man lost, trying to find his way and facing abandonment issues.”

A snort.

“Do you need me to say it, boy?”

He said the latter just like Snoke had, stabbing at Azathoth’s psychological weakpoint.

Azathoth's eyes looked to Insipid, they grew wide in anticipation. Azathoth who fancied himself so poised and cunning now barely able to speak two words.

"Say it"

He was going to, when Renn began to approach. Insipid winked. “We’ll have another chat, I promise.”

Azathoth looked as if to call out, his teeth gritting as Insipid slipped away. Azathoth then looked to see what Renn had to say.

”Azathoth, was it? I’m Renn, one of Bernael’s oldest, literally and figuratively, friends. Pleasure to meet you, didn’t realize the Emperor’s son had joined the Sith"

Renn had no way of knowing... perhaps he did, but other than Ike showing up... that was the very last thing Azathoth needed or wanted to hear. Subduing his frustration and anger he looked to the man, his eyes squinting as he hovered another cup of wine to him. Sipping on it as his eyes looked to Renn. It would take Azathoth a moment to respond, within the depths of his eyes still flashed anger, but it was hidden within them, trying to prevent himself from outbursting at the man.

"Yes well... I was hoping for him to tell me that little fact... if it's even true..." he said, his voice inflected with venom as he let out a sigh.

"Bernael's oldest friend you say... I would be interested in your exploits then, and of your capabilities..." his tone softening somewhat as he clasped the cup of wine, finishing it and hovering another cup to him.

TAG: @Sinrebirth @darthbernael (mainly) @Silvertough (mentioned) @ All other Sith

 

IC: Tormentum
Liberty of Spirits

Merrin mingled for a moment near the Empress and Emperor, until she noticed her Nightbrother was engaged in conversation with a servant. More than that they were toasting and drinking wine. The Witch of Dathomir wandered over to them, he dress flowing like a flame of emeralds.

“Hello, who is your friend?”

Tormentum turned to see Merrin his eyes burning dimmer from drink.

“My love, this.. is my old friend.. Raka.”

The Pureblood bowed to the Nightsister.

Merrin gave a smile in return.

“I see you are a Pureblood, I have not seen any in some time.”

Raka nodded.

“Yes milady, our kind have almost been lost to pogroms, and inter-breeding.”

Tormentum interjected, his voice distorted.

“Pure blood.. I am.. Half Blood.. half caste, Reamie.. I possess none of the ruby pigment.. a fact my father found a way to redress by drawing up pools of red from my face.”

Merrin’s face became grave. It was obvious The Titan Lover had taken too much liberty of the spirits.

Raka discretely took the bottle and placed it under table.

Tormentum stumbled.

“Half Caste.. and yet he expects me.. hypocrite.. he loved my mother and she was human.”

Merrin leaned in, bracing his chin in her shoulder, she then steading the Titan kissed his forehead which was painted with a scar.

TAG: All at the Galla

 

IC: Darth Ravenous

Somewhere near..

He had received a transmission while he was hunting in the Outer Rim..

A Celebration.

He had been gone for some time. Awakening in a Spice Den next to his servant, Astra.

He had lost his way. A call beckoned and he decided to entertain that call.

Ravenous awoke from the latest Spice binge and searched for Astra. The dim lights would've made it hard to locate the woman but he could smell her..

The Woman was a diety of self-hate.

He tried to break her of that so many times. She would always resist.. Even after so many cuts, beatings and electrocution sessions.

She was strong. Strong with the Dark Side.

She retained it though. The Beast became comfortable in his mercenary work once again and lost much of what he once stood for and followed. He was never one much for religion, hence his original straying from the ways of the Jedi and later, his stray from the Sith.

He did rather enjoy the freedom the Sith gave that the Jedi did not..

The Beast was once powerful and free, until the tendrils came. The tendrils were not of his own after the Alchemy, rather the Emperor's. Insipid had a way to sink his tendrils further into the core of his followers than the Beast's into flesh. It mattered not though. He could feel the Emperor's presence in a transparent state and knew it may be beneficial to attend.

Ravenous saw the girl. Curled up next to an Ithorian, burn marks all around their cot. He grew angry.. Very angry.

A fleshy tendril shot out from his back and killed the sleeping patron instantly. Astra shot up and scooted to the back of the cot. Where once she'd scream, she simply said.

"Are we leaving?"
---------‐------

In Orbit...

Permission to board, Stardust. This is Lord Ravenous. I have brought a gift back from the Outer Rim the Emperor would be delighted to see.

Ravenous, looked back to Astra, bound and gagged and continued his approach.

Tag: @Sinrebirth @Lady Belligerent

All else in attendance.

 

IC: Tormentum
Dark Dream

Merrin had sought to preserve the Peon’s dignity by walking him back to a table in the dark corner of the Galla, with only a glowing ruby pyramid for a light. The Titan laid back in the horseshoe chair his embers gone, his eyes closed. The Nightsister took off her stilletoes, and crawled next to him, her bear grey toes dancing on the black cushion. She curled up next to him, leaning on his chest.

Tormentum’s mind was caste in shadow. Then he was in a room of stone, and before him a half column with a basin of water. The Titan peered into it and saw his reflection, his face wrought with the roads of his father’s rage. Then the pool became dark, his face fading away in ripples of the black oil. A whisper sailed on the rings.

“Kato.. Kato.”

The liquid began to rise until it formed a skull and then a face.

Tormentum backed away from the basin.

“Fear.. fear.. I sense it in you. It has not mature into anger, nor blossomed into hate.”

The Titan Peon reached for the saber on his belt, it was not there.

“Weapons cannot help you here. Only truth.. the truth that you are not worthy.”

Tormentum let his hand fall to his side, though it was not his side, this was a creation of his mind.

“Not worthy.. all I ever heard was that as a child.”

The Crude Creature snarled.

“You are unworthy because you accept it. You allowed fear to be the end of your journey, rather than the beginning.”

Tormentum growled.

“What do you know of it?! You are some concoction of too much wine, and my insecurities.”

The Black Matter rose taller.

“You call yourself torment, but you are tormented! Do not underestimate me!”

Four great ink tentacles sprung from the liquid and grabbed the Titan, pulling him to the foot of the basin.

“This isn’t real.. this is a dream and you are no more real than the demons guarding the Temple of the Immortal Gods!”

The Liquid made a face that matched Tormentum’s, which made the Peon pause.

“Young fool.. I am more real than you know. For I fill your very soul! I am the Shadow waiting to take shape. That is if you can move past your fear.”

Tormentum drew his face closer to the Ink Doppelgänger.

“What are you?”

The Oily Being smiled.

“You will understand what I am in the end. Until then wake up, wake up, sweet little prince.. your don’t want to miss..”

The last lines were not the cracking liquid sound, and muffled voice that had been heard from this creature, but a woman’s, Merrin’s voice.

The Titan opened his eyes, white hair draped on his chest. He brought his chin down on it and Merrin stirred to look up at him.

“Did you sleep well?”

Tormentum nodded.

“I had the most peculiar dream.”

Merrin pressed her soft head further into his chest, he now was cradling her.

“Tell me..”

The Titan Peon passes his hand over the stands of her snowy locks.

“I will.. when I understand it.

TAG: All Sith

 

OOC: A short combo with @darthbernael

IC: Renn and Darth Azathoth
Whoops…

"Bernael's oldest friend you say... I would be interested in your exploits then, and of your capabilities..."

Renn winced slightly, as he looked down at the man. ”Whoops, I thought everyone knew. Sorry, I can just...feel it.” he said by way of apology for revealing that little tidbit. He glanced at the back of the Emperor as he walked away, ”I haven’t known the Emperor as long as Bernael has but he does seem to be pretty sparse on details, most often.”

A chuckle followed before he took a sip of his drink, ”Hmmm, well you wish to know. I’m a bit over 4500 years old, got tossed through a portal from the old timeline with Bernael and Helinith by that version of Insipid over there. Between Helinith, Serapis, and myself, we did the Emperor’s bidding and overthrew the Hapan Matriarchy. He,” Renn laughed even deeper, ”the Emperor I mean, saw the relationship Helinith and I have and married us, even accidentally, before the final Hapan encounter. Which led to him placing her as Matriarch and I as Prince Regent. And, just before this last battle, led to her and I maturing seedlings I’d held since the fall of Ryyk and one of them growing even faster, becoming our firstborn.”

He grabbed another drink, a whole bottle this time as he downed his drink, ”Besides some of my natural abilities, I’d say that covers most of it. How about you?”

Azathoth sipped from his wine, listening to Renn. The anger within his eyes faded altogether as he subdued and consumed the last of it. He noted that Renn was married... for genuine affection it seemed. Azathoth would factor this seemingly common occurrence among the Sith into the framework of the ideology he was beginning to build in his mind... but it was likely to be discounted.

"The Emperor and I met in dying time being consumed by Typhojem, we then escaped into this time, we had a run-in with Arb, well mainly I did, before boarding the Luxury Elite were I met and battled a number of Sith, before we all gathered together once more, battled and slew Snoke, and well I presume you know the rest..."

The overthrowing of the senate he expected to be common knowledge. He mused further for a second, he was not about to divulge the unresolved details to Renn about this newfound mission in the future. Perhaps he would to Bernael and Iudex... he gave a sigh, his mind working ever faster as he could not bring himself to relax. He needed something to dissect, to feel their life force drain away... or perhaps a different release... he thought as he eyed a particularly tall female Zeltron.

"4500 years old you say... quite venerable for a Neti no?" Spoke Azathoth neutrally, genuinely curious in Renn's response.

A rumbling chuckle came from Renn, ”Well….I did spend about 4000 of it trapped on a hellworld. Crashed there after the supernova destroyed Ryyk and the toxins made me go into hibernation. Venerable…” he sounded sad for a moment, ”Why, have you heard of any other Neti here because, if it’s like the old timeline...I’m the last, except for Helinith and my children.”

He wished, in that moment, that alcohol had any real effect on him. But it wasn’t to be. ”You do sound like you had quite the adventure with the Emperor and the vampire. I expect that, given who you are and your abilities, you’ll be rising even higher. Helinith and I, for the most part,” he chuckled, seem to be stuck as nobility, when all we’d like to do is get out and just cause our best forms of chaos.” As he talked about Helinith, his hand rose, touching the scar over where what he called a heart was.

Azathoth nodded, his eyes thinking for a moment. He was honestly unsure of what to say next. But before he could formulate a response Bellorum tugged on Azathoth's arm.

“Azathoth, it’s time for the dance you promised me, I hope you don’t mind, Renn, but they’re playing our song.”

Azathoth it seemed had very little choice in the matter as he was seemingly yanked away by her.

"It was a pleasure speaking with you," he said hastily as he was spirited away.

TAG: @darthbernael @Lady Belligerent Mentions for @darthhelinith @DarthIshyZ @Sinrebirth @Silvertough

 

IC: Iudex
A Gala to be remembered

With the situation apparently defused, with the would-be instigators going their separate ways, Iudex was left alone to his own devices. Well, as alone as one could be during an event as packed as this. Looking around, Iudex found, to his mild chagrin, found near everyone worth mingling with already engaged. A shame, the newly titled Circle-Lord had looked forward to speaking with Insipid at some point in regards to his title.

Specifically, what being a Circle-Lord really meant. Sure, the general idea was rather obvious. But what did that mean on a day to day basis? Iudex shrugged, adopting an easy-going smile he wore as well as his robes. Such questions could be answered at another time, he supposed. Tonight was meant for celebrations, after all, not politicking.

Iudex chuckled, snagging a flute of champagne from a passing server's tray. "Well, maybe not this early in the night~"

And so he went, casually inserting himself amongst the various groupings of underlings allowed within the gala. He was, comparable to the others, a relative newcomer to Inspid's Order, especially for one finding himself so highly placed within the hierarchy. An Empire couldn't function, couldn't thrive without the unsung and unknown cogs of bureaucracy. So he spoke to them, introducing himself to the staff and various other busybodies. Besides, one couldn't jumpstart one's own criminal underworld without knowing whose palms to grease, right?

Everywhere he went, he departed, leaving new connections in his wake. His pheromones were working wonders amongst the crowd, with those falling under its spell left with an unexplained sensation of bliss. The Sith were victorious, it was only natural to feel overjoyed at such a prospect. That would be how they explained such powerful feelings to themselves, as they ignored the tiny voices kept deep within the recesses of their minds. Voices which asked "Why?"

Such concerns would vanish in time, as they grew accustomed to the pleasant scent of the surprisingly friendly Sith Lord. He would bid them all a pleasant farewell, before he moved on to his next targets. There was no malice which guided his actions, just instinct, muscle-memory. Iudex had nearly been raised within affluent galas such as this, back on the homeworld. To not make so many friends was unthinkable. Besides, it wasn't like he was doing any permanent harm to those who ingested his pheromones. By tomorrow, everyone would be back to normal, save for the pleasantly tingly sensation they felt when thinking of him.

Iudex brought a new champagne flute to his lips, sighing pleasantly as the bubbly liquid trickled down his throat. Ah, looks like I'm playing the part after all, hm? He smirked, finishing the glass and replacing it with yet another as a rather dashing Togrutan server passed by. Chuckling to himself, Iudex turned, and found himself looking directly at a Sith he hadn't seen before..

Azathoth. Raising the fresh glass, Iudex paused, the liquid tickling his lips. The man was unfamiliar, yes, but not unknown. He was the Emperor's Apprentice, Iudex was certain of that. Strange that he hadn't had the time to introduce himself to the being yet, or rather, that both had found themselves unable to meet yet in the first place.That needed to be rectified before the night's end.

Seeing Azathoth already stuck in a conversation, Iudex simply waited, biding his time. For a moment, he locked eyes with the man. That was enough. Finally, Iudex drank, downing the flute in one go. He tilted his head towards a side room, an indication on where to meet once Azathoth was free.

Iudex flashed a grin, before ducking into a nearby couples conversation as if he had never left.

"So, there I was.. Back against the wall, surrounded by an entire platoon of Clones, with only a single shot left in my blaster pistol.."

Tag: @Sinrebirth (mentioned in name only) , @Shadowsun (mentioned directly) @All other Sith

 

OOC: A combo with @Lady Belligerent and @HanSolo29

IC: Bellorum, Azathoth, and Aryan
Blood Waltz

Bellorum came back into the Ballroom with Ike, she was laughing and her eyes sparkling. She spotted Azathoth nearby, speaking to Renn, and she decided it would be a good time to get in a dance before she and Aryan made their escape.

She walked and interrupted the two, “Azathoth, it’s time for the dance you promised me, I hope you don’t mind, Renn, but they’re playing our song.” She practically dragged Azathoth to the dance floor.

Azathoth was somewhat thankful to be whisked away, recalling that he had agreed between to this dance in the between period between the Senate and now.

He made his hasty good-bye to Renn as he turned to face Bellorum. He contemplated briefly about how she had been a former apprentice of Insipid herself when a question came out of him.

"Our song?" He spoke with a raised eyebrow.

“Azathoth,” she laughed, “it’s the Blood Waltz, I think the title speaks for itself.” She winked and put her hand on his shoulder and waited for him to take her hand.



“I believe our Master would have enjoyed how well we worked together,” Bellorum said thoughtfully, “of course, he would rather see us fight each other.” She shook her head slightly to dismiss that notion, “no, that serves no purpose, he would find pleasure in taking both of us on at once.”

Azathoth chuckled in kind, softening somewhat as he listened to the music. The title of the song fitting into his mind... he had been on somewhat of an emotional rollercoaster since the party had begun, that coupled with his over-analytical nature... he was a tad paranoid, to say the least.

"Ah, then it truly is our song then," he said with a soft smile on his face. Blood. Yes indeed...

The soft clicking of his mechanical arm and fingers come up to clasp her hand, as his other human hand came round underneath her arm and placed softly on her back.

And then it would begin, the two moving in tandem. For a man that had been born and raised fending for himself in poverty for most of his life, he was a surprisingly good dancer. Scenes of him gracefully moving around as he slew through foes, spilling blood and cracking bones played in his mind as he now moved.

"To think when we first met you poisoned me without a second thought, and now we dance," he said with a chuckle.

Bell smiled, “it wasn’t deadly, so don’t get testy. It was just to calm things down,” she bit her lower lip for a second, “you know, that reminds me of the first time I met my…husband.” She wasn’t used to saying that, it was still very new. “We were at a festive dinner, and I poisoned him, to be fair,” she spoke a little faster, “he was being incredibly stuffy and if I was going to be sitting next to him, he needed loosening up.” The memory was sweet, and she would have never dreamed that stuffy politician would be her spouse, but she’d never dreamed of having one of those either.

“That gathering was quite a moment for Insipid, mostly because he displayed the dead body of the wretch Marasiah Fel over the grand table. It was breath taking,” Bell almost stumbled, her thigh was burning again, and remembering that moment caused images to appear in my mind. Aryan could have seen those memories, and she didn’t want him disturbed.

’Ike will cover for us, I have his blessing if we want to escape?

Bell cleared her throat, “I rather think of it as a compliment if one has been drugged by me, and I guess I’ll have to explain that to Aryan soon too.

Azathoth was quiet for a moment. The music playing as they continued to dance. Her words, the tone, and the gait of her voice. The way she recounted the story, her near stumble, the way she directed the conversation back to Azathoth.

So it isn't simply a marriage of power... at least not anymore he thought quietly to himself.

"I was unsure, but now I know for certain... you care deeply for Emperor Graul," he stated matter of factly, in his usual cold, unmoving manner. An observation of Bellorum's behavior.

She sighed softly, “you noticed that too?” It wasn’t really a question, and she didn’t wait for an answer, “something changed,” she shrugged, “we had our reasons and an agreement in place when we spoke our vows, but I’m growing to appreciate his mind, his sense of humor, and so many other things I had never noticed.” It was strange to be discussing this with anyone but Ike or Insipid, but oddly she wasn’t uncomfortable. “Most of my life, I avoided attachment,” she hesitated a moment to consider her words, “I’ve been seriously reevaluating that notion, and I have to admit it’s euphoria when your very essence speaks to another. I’m a little bit in awe, and more than a little terrified. I’ve learned this confusion is normal in such situations.”

The pain was steadily getting worse, and Olag had warned her that she wasn’t healing. She was enjoying this time with the younger Sith, but was aware that not sleeping for days combined with an injury was catching up to her.

Aryan, I’m very weary, but I don’t want to let you down by retiring early…

“I noted you have an interest in biology,” Bell changed the subject, “you have my blessing to use any resources here on The Stardust if you have the need, and Olag loves to his own bizarre ideas.

Azathoth mused quietly as he listened to Bellorum's words. Of all things he had expected her to say to his comment, Bellorum opening up more was not one of them. His own internal thoughts on the subject he kept to himself, they were not asked for and it would be most imprudent of him to do so.

One thought did occur to him however, several dots connecting together... this Aryan Graul it was the same man that had been with a previous Empress, Marasiah Fel, the previous owner of Azathoth's lightsaber, and from what Azathoth had read of the man, he was a politician through and through. The cutthroat kind, after all, they had slaughtered an entire senate to give him power. Clearly, Graul was no longer with this woman. Azathoth did wonder if to Graul, despite this affection Bellorum was feeling for Aryan, their marriage was nothing but power. But Azathoth knew little else of the man, there was no real way for him to know for sure but it did track logically from what he knew of him...the possibility was not zero. But in all honesty, he did not care particularly. Well... as long as things did not get ugly, the Order did not need an internal conflict. And so he kept this hypothesis, this possibility in his mind to himself, curious to see if in time it would be proven true or false.

He then wondered briefly if he should ask Bellorum about Insipid... and who Insipid was in relation to him. But he decided against it, the topic of conversation changing and again would have been imprudent.

"That is excellent to hear, yes I do indeed have a great fascination with all the sciences," the soft clicking of his mechanical arm as they moved underscored this point. "I thank you, I was going to make that request in time, it would be a great boon to my own research,"

He had a number of projects in mind and was internally excited to see them develop.

Aryan had first noticed the strange impressions while nursing a particularly caustic brand of Corellian whiskey, so it was only natural for him to believe that he had indulged in one too many glasses of the potent liquor. At least, that’s what made the most sense under the circumstances. Why else would he randomly recall the dramatic events that had occurred several years ago at the Sith victory banquet?

Why else would Marasiah Fel cross his awareness in such an intrusive manner? He had no love for that kriffin—

He bit back the bitter curse and winced as he brought the tumbler to his lips. The smooth burn of the alcohol helped to calm his ire and refocus his thoughts. He had turned the page on that specific chapter of his life long ago—well, more like slammed the book on it. It was all in the past, and he certainly had no reason to reflect on Sia now, especially when Bellorum...

Oh.

Ooohh.

Ah, hell.

That offered some clarity.

A snort issued from the back of his throat when he suddenly remembered their bond. Only then did he percieve the rest of her perceptions and emotions. While she had been the one to conjure memories of Empress Fel, she immediately consoled him not to worry, but even then, it was impossible to discern the context. Nevertheless, that did not prevent him from deciphering the rest of her message—she was tired and anxious, and that translated into a real urgency to escape.

There was also something about Ike that he couldn’t quite comprehend, but he dismissed it for now. If it was important, he figured that she would fill him in on the details. He was still trying to acclimate himself to this new existence, after all.

For now, Aryan drained the rest of his whiskey and rose slowly to his feet to heed Bellorum’s call. He wavered slightly, his hand reaching for the counter for support, but he quickly regained his balance and slipped into the crowd to find his wife.

When he eventually stumbled across the unlikely duo of Aza—Azyhoth?—and Bell, a crooked grin immediately spread over his features. "I’ve been...looking all over for you," he drawled lazily, canting his head to regard Bellorum with an impish glint in his eye.

He then noted Ackahoth’s proximity and offered a casual nod to acknowledge the man. "Azat—Azy, uh...I hope you’ve been taking good care of ‘er."

Azathoth looked to the man. He did not judge the man for becoming drunk...so quickly, but him unable to say Azathoth's name properly irked him, even if it was understandable. It was bad enough that Ike had taken to calling him 'Azy' not Graul as well. Azathoth was after all a rather formal individual, but he knew correcting the Emperor would not be the best idea.

Azathoth regarded them both for a moment, the clearly exhausted and pained Bellorum and the drunken Graul. Well, that was if he was actually drunk...for whatever reason, he felt whatever was at the face value of Graul could not precisely be trusted. Perhaps this was because Azathoth was naturally paranoid about everyone or that everything Azathoth knew about Graul indicated that he was rather duplicitous, which ironically Azathoth would respect. It was likely a combination of the two.

If anything Azathoth somewhat wished he was that drunk right now, stop his mind from working overtime like it always did. What he had three, maybe four glasses of wine... he was beginning to feel it a little he supposed, he had drunk them in a rather quick succession. But he was certainly not drunk enough to quite deal with a drunken Graul and a pained Bellorum.

"I try my best Emperor Graul, I do hope the Empress was satisfied with our dance." he spoke withdrawing his arms away from her to allow the two of them to draw close. The soft clicking of his mechanical arm as he felt a soft tapping on his shoulder.

“To the men’s?” spoke Ike, seemingly using the opportunity when Insipid was distracted to ask that question to Azathoth. Perhaps it was the alcohol, perhaps it was because Azathoth did have questions he wanted to ask Ike, perhaps it was any number of reasons but he simply nodded his head and responded.

"Give me a moment," he spoke swiftly, looking back to the husband and wife, his eyes glinting in thought. Their relationship intrigued Azathoth greatly. Because he did not understand it, and what he did not understand fascinated him. The heart of any scientist. He wanted to test something... see how Graul would react, he wanted to know more of the man and what kind of man he was and so a little test came to Azathoth's mind. Drunkness did make people more truthful in a way.

He took out the hilt of his lightsaber, allowing it to hover above his hand as it disassembled into its many components. The red crystal inside floating out as Azathoth studied Bellorum's and Graul's faces closely. He suspected that Bellorum would be able to feel it, and Graul would likely too, but Azathoth of course had assumed the man was not Force Sensitive and this did not expect the man to instantly recognize that crystal.

"This crystal once belonged to Marasiah Fel, and now it is mine..." Spoke Azathoth calmly, 'mine' inflicted with a tinge of poison, not a great amount, subtle but definitely there. Why he did so was not immediately clear. Was he really so foolish as to antagonize the Emperor and Empress?

"I thought you might find that... interesting..." He spoke coyly, looking squarely into Graul, a ghost of a smile on his lips... barely a smile at all really.

Aryan’s expression hardened, an indignant scoff issuing from his lips as he shook his head. It was clear from his reaction that he didn’t truly understand the significance of the crystal, however, he couldn’t ignore the wider implications. It was no coincidence that Sia’s name continued to emerge as a sordid reminder of his past. He could excuse a fleeting mention, but this was the second—or third?—time within the last hour. That was a curious anomaly, especially when he had gone years without a mere reference.

He suspected that it was all the result of 'Azyhoth’s' meddling. Was he instigating things on purpose to exploit a perceived weakness? Aryan was well aware that he was Insipid’s apprentice—and Insipid knew all about his affair with the former Empress. It was a little too convenient.

But what did he hope to gain by revealing this knowledge?

Simple blackmail? Something more...nefarious?

Or was the alcohol simply clouding his perceptions?

With a sharp intake of breath, Aryan stepped forward and took Bellorum’s hand in a protective embrace. He intended to lead her away, but not before he flashed a cruel smile at the other man. "A mere relic," he uttered gruffly, his words notably slurred, though it was apparent there was an ulterior meaning. "But I do hope that you enjoy your gift. It was a rather generous gesss—ssture from Insipid himself, no doubt. He was the last one to have poss–possession of it, after all."

Bellorum observed the two men closely without reacting. Aryan’s countenance was notably different than earlier when they had been together. Was it the alcohol? It dawned on her that she had likely consumed as much, but she’d been careful to control the side effects, Aryan wouldn’t know to do that yet.

His slurred speech conjured painful memories of a time when Aryan struggled to speak at all, she quickly shut those thoughts down. They had to be remnants of a long ago nightmare that she wanted suppressed and gone.

Her interest was piqued by why it should mean anything to Aryan that Azathoth possessed an item connected to the late Empress Fel. It was certainly not so important to risk having it cast a pall over their evening. She wasn’t willing to forget the things Aryan had said earlier while they danced.

Bell decided to end their exchange, this was a matter that could be addressed at a later time, and not with witnesses. She gently squeezed Aryan’s hand as she spoke up, “I hate to interrupt this fascinating chat, but I promised my husband a tour of the office space here on The Stardust I had renovated for him.” She looked at Aryan with a soft smile and then spoke to Azathoth, “thank you for the lovely dance, I enjoyed it immensely, and I’m sure we will be seeing you again soon. Shall we, Emperor?” She asked Aryan in an endearing tone while gently urging him to follow at her side.

Azathoth had to resist a laugh at Aryan's response, instead, a slow, satisfied, and knowing look came across his face. He flicked his hand as his lightsaber hilt flowed back together.

​

"Of course Empress, I had nothing further to say anyway," he said perhaps a tad smugly. And so Azathoth had learned what kind of man Graul was. He was a politician alright, his hardened expression and scoff indicating that the sight of crystal and what Azathoth said annoyed Aryan, enough for him to resolve himself somewhat in his drunken state. This Fel was certainly a sensitive subject for him, a memory he did not want to relive perhaps? Or the implications of an Empress he presumably abandoned not exactly the topic of conversation he wished to have in front of his wife. Although of course, it was clear Bellorum knew of Graul's previous relationship with this woman. And then both of them rushing to leave, well, well... how truly fascinating...although they were rather spent for the night as it was.

Azathoth eyed the cruel smile of Graul which he met with a knowing smile as if Azathoth had just figured something out. The gruff tone of Aryan as he called it a relic... Azathoth knew he was not speaking about the crystal, to Azathoth it meant Fel was the relic, confirming his earlier hypothesis that Fel had meant nothing to Graul.

Well, well this had ended up being a rather fascinating interaction, and while Azathoth did not quite understand the feelings they may or may not have for one another. He was now deeply intrigued by Aryan Graul.

TAG: @Lady Belligerent @HanSolo29 Mentions for @Sinrebirth @darthbernael

​

 

OOC: A combo with @Sinrebirth double post permission granted

IC: Azathoth and Ike
The Men's Room

Azathoth would feel the tap of his shoulder from Ike, his whisper to go the men's. He mused for a moment. It was not difficult to fathom would connotations that held. Regardless he did have questions for Ike.

And so he would follow the man, once there Azathoth would glance to him. There was no denying that he was an attractive human being, but that wasn't the point. Azathoth did seem however somewhat more relaxed than he had been before. Even during his dance with Bellorum he could not bring himself to relax fully... It was funny, thinking back to his time on Taanab, without Insipid, without the Sith, without these large threats that hung over his head, how simple his life had been. A life where his only concerns were what he was going to eat, who he was to kill, and who he was going to sleep with.

Lost and abandoned... until he had been rescued from that unending nightmare by 'Zelmar'. He looked to Ike, loosening his tie slightly as leaned against a wall.

"You never answered my question Ike...what does Insipid mean to you now?"

Ike watched the man undo his tie, and smirked, reaching over to hold each respective end. “I have to wonder, why it matters to you.”

He smiled wryly, as he slid the tie off his neck. “Never been in love, have you?”

Azathoth eyed Ike, cautiously, he was very unsure in this moment. He did not particularly trust Ike. He did not trust most people in all honesty.

"No I have not, the concept is foreign to me," he stated matter of factly.

"It matters to me Ike... because...because..." the usually sly man hesitated. "Because I think Insipid is my father," he said looking to the side. The first time he had spoken the possibility in words... the image of Renn stating it so surely flashing into his mind.

"And even if he is not... I have come to think of him as one," his eyes hardened looking to Ike, the implication of this laid bare for Ike to process.

Well, flirting seems a bit inappropriate right now. He absently wondered, leaning on the wall besides Azathoth and winding and unwinding the tie around his arm.

Ike took a slow and deep breath. “You’re from the old timeline, right? The one that went wrong. There was a woman, in the past. If it is her, then she’s dead, you do realise that, right?”

He turned onto his shoulder and played a finger across Azathoth’s upper arm. Keeping in mind the wall, it would look relatively intimate. All the better others thought he was hitting on Azathoth rather than discussing his father. “I take it my being involved with Insipid would represent an…” he grinned somewhat at the delicate wording. “Impediment to anything happening between us on that basis?”

Azathoth eyed Ike, thinking softly for a moment. So he can be serious.

He gave a sigh... still looking down and to the floor. He fluttered his hand slightly as he spoke next.

"I never knew any kind of Mother, her being dead changes very little..." he looked to Ike, musing slightly.

"The issue is more that Insipid clearly cares about you still on some level, a man does not yell and demands to know another's whereabouts without their being feelings beneath that.

He paused for a moment, chuckling slightly.

"Anyone else and I would not give a damn... but Insipid... you saw how he looked when you merely brushed against me, I'm not going to make him cause to resent me, even if there is just a chance of that happening... what did I say to you earlier... I'm a man of 'guarded sensation'? How pretentious..."

He scoffed. He realized that he was rather intuned to how he was feeling in this moment.

"It's ironic really if you replaced me with someone else and I observed the same situation I would properly look down on them for doing what I am doing, and for caring for Insipid in the first place,"

It then occurred to him he was being uncharacteristically open, hell he was not even able to have this conversation with Insipid. Perhaps it was because he was drunk, he had another glass of wine on his way to here after all.

He usually liked complexity, puzzles, and schemes that required solving. But this own complexity, this internal complexity he did not enjoy it. He just wanted to indulge himself, was that not why he became a Sith, to follow Insipid as his Master? So he take what he wanted?

“Oh my oh my,” Ike said softly, teasing, not antagonising. “You rather want the approval of Insipid, I can tell.” He scrunched up his face. “How unattractive, but if you consider Insipid a father-figure, then finagling with his husband would be quite the issue.” He sounded thoughtful.

Again that distance between them was minimal. “But why don’t you just tell the man how you feel. Insipid may very well have been concerned for you rather than me, that his apprentice, his ‘son’, should not become entangled in his…” a pregnant pause, “personal affairs,” he settled upon. “But Insipid and I are overdue a chitchat, no doubt of that.” He rested his head on Azathoth’s shoulder. “Perhaps I should apologise to you for not allowing you clarity with him, for he has not supplied it to me.”

Alcohol floated over to them at Ike’s behest.

“Makes one want to just treat tonight for what it is, and deal with the rest tomorrow.” Ike sounded arch philosophical, but he was also allowing for all manner of mischief. Ike was all malleable, and the moment was that; they were two souls that required succour, and indeed many of the Sith here did.

Whether it was a good idea or not was another question.

Ike found himself acknowledging that the advice he had given Bellorum applied here. Staring out into the event, his voice grew somber, even as he drank, and glanced back at Azathoth. “I can’t give you permission, I can only point out that you don’t need it to do what you need to in the moment.”

Azathoth looked to Ike, the man acting so... so... reasonable. It was not what Azathoth was expecting, it caught him off-guard. His senses were dulled, he had been thinking over time during the entire party thus far. He scoffed slightly on Ike's 'unattractive' comment although he supposed it was. Azathoth clasped the alcohol, sipping on it slightly. Thinking for only a moment, you could slice the tension in the air with a knife.

"You're an absolute bastard you know that don't you?" he said, his tone soft despite the harshness of his words as he wheeled around, knocking Ike's head off his shoulder so Azathoth was now facing him and Ike was against the wall. Azathoth's hair flowed upward magnificently as he smiled looking at the taller, blonde man.

​

He clasped Ike's chin delicately as he then began to kiss the man. There was no emotional affection for the man here, although he was beginning to respect Ike but that was different. It was the sum total of Azathoth's built-up passion, like a monster feasting inside of him that needed feeding with either death or lust. And now it demanded lust.

“I try.”

Ike grinned and kissed the man back, hard, grabbing his suit and pulling him close, sending the glass to a table with a flutter of his hand. He whipped the tie around the back of Azathoth’s neck and kept him close, tugging him along the wall after him.

TAG: @Sinrebirth

 

IC: Tormentum
Lounge of Love

The Titan sat there with Merrin clinging to him. He was never happier, than to be this close to her. Merrin reached up to part some of his wavy hair.

“You are so handsome now that you don’t hide your face behind a mask.”

Tormentum smiled, the scars rising like waves near his cheeks.

“I feel naked without it.”

The Nightsister kissed the top of the Titan’s lip.

“Your scars.. was it your father?”

The Peon’s face grew graver.

“Yes. He saw too much of my mother in it.”

Merrin caressed the lines and scars.

“What was she like? Your mother?”

A spark entered the embers of Tormentum’s eyes, he took Merrin’s grey hand and kissed it.

“My mother.. she was kindness incarnate. She is the reason I have a face. My father beat it into Bantha burger, but her healing hands mended me as best she could.”

The Titan shed a tear that descended his cheek which Merrin caught and rubbed on her own.

“My mother was the antithesis of my father, he was harm, she was healing, he was cruel, she was kind, he was obsessed with rule, she served all. I survived because of her intervention. And then in the end.. I couldn’t..” The Titan’s chest beating like a drum.

“..save her.”

Merrin dug her lips into his and the two exchanged passion, the pain was like succor, she drawing it from him. Tormentum then found himself placing his hands on her back, then the waist, raising her up on the back of couch in a gentle manner. Then he realized they were still at the Galla and stopped.

“We really should adjourn to somewhere more private if this continues.”

The Nightsister placed her hands on his cheeks.

“Take me then.. I will give you succor, and pleasure.”

-Exit Tormentum and Merrin-

TAG: All Sith

 

IC: Tormentum
Intimacy

As the Titan was exiting with Merrin her hand and his intertwined, he encountered Dark Lady Ballorum who told him the dancing for the night was at an end, which he bowed his head in response, understanding.

The fire in the Titan’s body was palpable. Merrin lead him into a private room. There a bed with burgundy sheets and two matching pillows. The Nightsister went into wash room. Tormentum took a seat on the bench at the foot rest. He took off the long flowing black robe, then his armor, the steel seal made a muffing sound. Beneath was an obsidian shirt and necklace of brass, hanging from it was a circle, with spikes making rays of the sun. He took it and opened a compartment, which had words in the Sith tongue.

“What is that?”

Merrin now stood, her snowy hair unfurled, and cascading on her shoulders, her slender figure now in a ruby robe. She stepped, her feet tip toeing and then sitting up on the sheets and curling up to Tormentum’s side.

“Its a scroll, that my mother wrote.”

Merrin kissed the nape of his neck.

“What does it say?”

The Peon began to pronounce them.

“Su'us, Tu Aras Nuyak Virsune ir Dzia. Galez j'us Xauti Kam j'us Iezkon / Son, you are my pride and joy. May you find what you seek.”

Merrin took a breath after a kiss.

“That’s sweet.”

The Titan lowered his head into his chest.

“Those were the last words she said to me. I went to the Jedi Academy after that, my aim to spite my father, rejecting all his ambitions for me. In turn it killed her, he did not have me to punish, so his wrath was turned.. on her.”

The Peon raised his hand to wipe the tears, he he felt Merrin’s hand wipe the drops and lick them.

“So much suffering.. so much pain. Let me drink it, release your torment into me.”

Tormentum began to kiss Merrin’s lips, and the two leaned back on to the bed. Taking a breath a stream of emerald vapor came out of his mouth along with these words:

“I love you..”

Merrin eyes began to water. She then kissed the Titan on the mouth, drawing more of his breath and feelings into hers. With a break she said:

“I love you, my Tormentum.”

-END of SCENE for reasons-

TAG:
Mentioned @Lady Belligerent
Any who want to read.

 

OOC: A combo with @Silvertough

IC: Azathoth and Iudex
Making Plans

It would be a little while before Azathoth emerged out of the men's bathroom. His tie was missing and his suit was noticeably crumpled as he collected himself. Ergh... he stumbled slightly as he felt the drunkenness. He eyed Iudex recalling the gesture the Circle Lord had made to him before Azathoth had entered the bathroom. Bernael had also floated the potential for a chat, but well, Iudex had asked first and Bernael still seemed with his wife at the time.

Ah... this was to be a serious conversation he reasoned...best to not be so drunk he thought as he focused and used the Force to purify the toxic effect of the alcohol, not completely gone but enough so he was only at a light buzz. He gave a bow to him as he looked up at Iudex.

"It is good to meet you at last Circle Lord Iudex, I trust you are enjoying yourself this evening?"

"Not as much as some, I gather." Iudex responded with a pointed smirk. "I've done my part, keeping up appearances and the like. As have you, bouncing between the various Lords and Ladies of the Order.." Setting down the now empty glass from his hands, Iudex dropped his act, his expression hardening somewhat. Here, away from the prying eyes and ears of the Sith, such charades were unnecessary. Worse, they were just so tiring.

"Shall we skip straight to business then? I'd imagine it would be a nice change of pace from your earlier activities." Iudex intoned without a hint of judgement. "Frankly, by this point in a Feast, the various Sith Lords are just about done concocting their little schemes for the evening. Rare for them to wait so long.." He finished by resting his hands on his hips, an expectant look in his eyes.

Azathoth chuckled, this Iudex was a shrewd one. Good. Azathoth respected that. His eyes grew serious, his voice was soft, calculated.

"Yes, indeed... I have a request of you Circle Lord Iudex... earlier I was granted a blessing from Emperor Insipid to prepare for a mission to eliminate a potential threat."

He paused for a moment gauging the reaction of the Warrior.

"That of the possibility of Palpatine surviving in this time and living on Exegol..." He waited, having more to say but wanted to see how Iudex would react to this initial information.

Iudex remained stone-faced as Azathoth spoke. He had expected to be roped into a nefarious plot or some dastardly scheming of some kind. Not a genuine assignment with merit. Ah well, another time.

"You don't believe Palpatine is truly gone.." Iudex murmured, closing the gap between them with a step. "That's the tricky thing about Sith, veeeerrry tricky to kill 'em for good. Take your Master for example, or the Lords of Hate and Hunger for that matter. When I was brought into the Fold, the very idea of real, true immortality was absurd!"

A thin, humorless smile spread across his lips. "Such illusions were quickly laid to rest."

Azathoth was hiding something, either for dramatic effect, a lack of complete knowledge, or petty politicking. The Falleen found all rather trite. On a whim, Iudex altered his pheromone output, bathing the room with a calming glow. An informal nudge to move things along.

"Palpatine is a name that carries tremendous weight." Iudex continued, making no attempt at hiding how intently he was staring into Azathoth's eyes. "Speak your mind, plainly."

Azathoth tilted his head in curiosity, those eyes, that tone. Ah, so Iudex was one that despised politics and preferred directness. Azathoth would note this for the future, it certainly would make him easier to work with. His eyes remained cold and neutral as he spoke to the Falleen.

"It is unknown to Insipid, and therefore the Order, where Exegol is. I thought it prudent if you, myself, and Circle Lord Bernael work together to track down and eliminate whatever lurks on that planet..."

"Exegol.. Exegol..?" Iudex repeated the word a few times, as if testing it against his tongue. "Familiar, yet... Not. Curious." Content that Azathoth now understood him, he broke his stare. Moving slowly, he began to pace about the room,a perplexed glint in his eyes.

"During Palpatine's reign, he sent more than one expedition into the depths of the Unknown Regions.." He murmured, stroking his chin thoughtfully. "There were all sorts of rumors as to why. You had the usual ones, of course. Conquests, trade with another civilization.. Yada yada." He huffed. "Of course, his Empire was always hunting Jedi and other threats to his supremacy out there.."

Turning once more to face Azathoth, Iudex's smile had vanished. "Do you have any evidence that Palpatine's returned in this timeline?" The very fact he had to specify timelines was still something he still found rather silly, but these were strange times after all.

Azathoth nodded, he expected that Iudex to ask for some semblance of proof.

"I suffered a vision before coming into this time. One that Emperor Insipid also witnessed. Palpatine was in a dark ampitheter, he was frail... and he talked of manipulating realities and the timelines... to build a being that could transverse through them,"

He nodded tilted his head, sighing slightly.

" I recognize this is no a guarantee he is alive... but I am sure you can agree on the possibility of such a thing being created... is not a risk or a foe we want to face,"

Iudex's eyebrow quirked up. "A vision from the Dark Side? While they are often illuminating," He said with an annoyed sigh, "more likely than not, fabricated."

The fact that both he and Insipid shared such a vision only added to Iudex's suspicion. It was highly probably that, if they even found the mystery planet of Exegol, they would walk head first into a trap.

"The continued security of our Empire is my highest concern. Therefor, I am obligated to look into any threat that presents itself, real or imagined." In the end, if Palpatine had returned mattered little. Either way, a vision had been planted within the heads of Insipid and Azathoth. Whomever or whatever had the power to do that demanded an investigation.

"As for your plan? When where you to leave? Is Lord Hunger already signed on? Or.." A glimmer of the smile returned. "Am I your first step?"

Azathoth smiled, pleased at how reasonable and straightforward Iudex was. He sensed they would work well together in the future.

"Well... there is some preparation I would like to undertake before we leave, but our investigation to find the precise location of Exegol may take some time." he paused thinking for a moment.

"Yes, I have yet to inform Circle Lord Bernael of this proposition, I was going to speak with him once we are finished conversing. Our first step would be to gather intel... perhaps investigating old repositories of Sith Lore unique to this time...anything that can aid us in finding Exegol,"

Finally, Iudex returned Azathoth's initial bow with one of his own. "I'm honored you chose to bring this plan to me first. I'm sure the old Vampire will share our concerns about Palpatine, no need to worry there.."

Iudex extended his hand out towards Azathoth, his palm open. "As you say, determining Exegol's coordinates will take some time. Plenty of which we can use to hammer out the specifics. In the meantime, I'll put the word out and shake the tree a little, see what falls loose." He made a point to look down at his hand. "Shake and we have a Contract."

The pheromones Iudex was producing ceased abruptly, within a few moments, any and all effects suffered under them would dilute, then fade. A contract was only as good as the mental state of those who agreed to it. Otherwise, what was the point?

A smile of satisfaction spread over Azathoth's lips as he took Iudex's hand and shook on it, nodding in agreement.

"Excellent, I am glad we were able to come to an agreement, we shall be in contact" Azathoth bowed to him before turning and making his way to find Bernael. Although he did note a Peon quietly slipping away with a female. Hmm... he had been planning on speaking with him, perhaps he would attempt to locate him later on.

TAG: @Silvertough @darthbernael Mentions for @Sinrebirth @Darth Tormentum

 

IC: Tormentum
Ecstasy

The Sith Peon laid there beneath the scarlet sheets. Merrin was fast asleep, clinging to his arm. Tormentum was in a fog, his mind and body touched by such immense pleasure and release he had become almost stone. The Nightsister in the heat of passion had purged all pain from his soul, and he now like an empty pot starring into the void as all his body tingled with ecstasy.

The Titan did not know how to manage this sensation. Always torment was felt, like life matter feeding his heart. Now it was gone, and he did not recognize himself. What was he without his pain and sufferings? Was the respite The Witch Lover gave him for his good or was it a work that weakened him as the spectra of his Father forewarned.

The crisis he now felt of identity made the numbness fade into insecurity. He rose carefully, removing his arm, so as to not wake Merrin. Entering the wash room he took some water and splashed his face, his amber eyes looking into a mirror when he saw a familiar red face.

“Women weaken the heart, my son. If you wish to fulfill your destiny, you must harden your heart.”

The vision passed away and Tormentum was alone once more. He began to dress, returning his plate armor over his chest and the black robes. He looked at the Nightsister fast asleep, he kissed her cheek, her stirring a little.

The Sith Peon then left the room and walked the hallway, his mind drifting between ecstasy and identity crisis, when he sensed a call, it was sharp and dark, a intent of a Circle Lord to speak with him; this drowned out all other thoughts.

Tormentum re-entered the Galla and saw Circle Lord Iudex there. He had wanted to approach the Falleen but wished to give Lord Azathoth preference before interrupting. Now it seemed the Circle Lord was free to talk.

The Titan approached and bowed low.

TAG: @Silvertough
Mentioned @Shadowsun

 

IC: Darth Ravenous
Stardust.. Landing Bay..

Ravenous landed the Raven next to a well placed squad of TIE fighters, the unmasked trooper pilots pointing and laughing between each other at the state of the ship.

It was a little decrepit but the Raven served the Lord well. He hadn't had the Empire credits at his disposal since he left. It was all he had. Ravenous pulled the comms from his head and turned back to Astra.

She squirmed and stared at the Beast, wide eyed.

Ravenous grasped a group of chain links from under his seat and wrapped the girl's legs.

"I have let you go too long. You were meant for so much more.. but you have strayed as much as me. The difference is I had something to say about it."

The chain tightened as he pressed the landing ramp button.

He dragged her down the ramp. He was encased in a black cloak, walking past the troopers. They displaced themselves very quickly, leaving their deathstick butts smoldering.

The Beast dragged the Lady past many checkpoints unchecked, the chains scraping the entire time. He made it to the outside of the venue and tossed the chained woman upon the adjacent wall of the door.

He prepared himself to walk through the doors as an usher approached him,

"Can I take your cloak, Mi'Lord?"

The Beast held his hunger and tossed the man aside. Grasping the chain, he drug the girl inside.

His cloaked figure would be hard to identify for any who didn't know what he did for the Empire. There was mingling going on between lesser members...

But they were devout..

Something Ravenous had not been in some time. His presence parted the crowd until he reached.. Him..

The Emperor..

*kneels*

"My Lord, I've been gone too long. I ask for forgiveness yet not a lesser punishment.."

*yanks chain closer revealing Astra. Still squirming*

"Do with her what you will, Master. This is my offering."

The patron reactions meant nothing in the moment but it was a scene. It would not be unnoticed by some..Ike Azathoth, Bellorum

TAG @Sinrebirth @Lady Belligerent @Shadowsun all other sith

 

**Short Combo Post between Circle Lord Iudex and Peon Tormentum**

IC: Iudex and Tormentum
Gala

Iudex bid Azathoth farewell, watching his newfound compatriot willingly slip back into the throngs of party-goers with a tinge of annoyance. The mask of a socialite had become a burden to bear, one he found himself having to put on more and more frequently. But he would continue to play the game, if that is what the Sith required of him.

With a final sigh, Iudex stepped back out into the central ballroom, snagging a tankard of a mysteriously bubbling liquid from a passing server's tray as he went. He had ignored Shimmer's hints for too long, something which needed to be rectified immediately. He cast a furtive gaze towards the Women's restroom, the last place he had seen Soliloquy's apprentice heading towards.

"Tsk". Iudex clicked his tongue, cringing inwardly. Should probably refer to her as more than just Soliloquy's apprentice, eh? He thought, absentmindedly sipping from the tankard of mystery liquor. What, lovers? She clearly thinks as much.. Spirits, this is all so juvenile...

Iudex stood therein the open for several minutes, lost within his train of thought. With Shimmer still not emerging from the bathroom, he figured she must have gone somewhere else. "Let's get this over wi..-"

The Falleen finally glanced downwards only to find an unfamiliar Peon bowing before him. Iudex cocked his head to the side, staring blankly at the back of the man's head. Had he been here this whole time..? Why..?

"Peon," Iudex said bluntly, taking another sip of his beverage. "Can I.. help you?”

Tormentum lifted his gaze, his hair parting to reveal the amber eyes that now burner like embers, not with violence, but warmth.

“I sensed in the Force you desired to speak with me. I am Tormentum. I am your service Circle Lord.”

The Titan bowed once more. He still could not shake his feelings from sharing a bed with Merrin, now the numbness shifted for a craving to be close to her, it was so intense, he had to steady himself on his knee. He now understood he was under her control, as she had promised was Nightsister customn.

Iudex raised an eyebrow. Odd. That was the only way he could describe the situation. "Your reverence is.. inspired.. But enough with the bowing already eh?"

He took another swig from the tankard, rather enjoying the strangely festive flavor, a stark contrast to the conversation he found himself in. "So. Tormentum, is it? I don't have to be a Cicle-Lord to notice that you're quite out of sorts. You drink too much or something? You can use the Force, no? Purge your body of toxins, it's practically step one in becoming a Sith."

This one was a new face. Iudex felt positive on that. The man hadn't been involved during the Hapes Coup, or the ensuing Battle of Hapes. Very new, indeed. So who brought him? Was he another traveler from a separate timeline? Were such details that important in the first place?

"Tell me, Peon. What brought you to our Empire?"

The Titan Peon’s knee had gone numb, at the insistence of the Circle Lord’s words he rose, the leg tingling and difficult to bend to his will. Finally it acquiesced and he was able to stand in a comfortable posture.

To the queries about his drinking too much, Force Sensitivity, and purging toxins he nodded to convey all of the above was true of himself.

Then came the question that dwarfed all others, “Why? Why had he joined the Empire?”

Tormentum took a breath.

“To fulfill my destiny. I have wandered the galaxy, and sought the answer to my purpose, and only here in the Empire have I found it. The galaxy needs Order, it needs Passion, and only The Empire can bequeath both.”

The Peon shifted his feet to remain at ease, a tray carries by a droid of tea came by and he took the cup with its grey liquid steaming out of it.

"A common sentiment, shared by many who begin their journey into the Dark Side." Iudex said with a respective nod. He then held up a finger. "But always remember, the Dark Side must be respected. It gives and takes away in equal measure. Feed it, and your power will grow exponentially."

His expression grew dark, as if a great shadow had fallen over him. "But feed it too much, or too fast, and it will take everything." He concluded, clasping his hands together in a half-prayer. "Simple words, for a near-impossible task..."

Slowly, Iudex unclasped his hands, reclaiming the half-full tankard which had been floating harmlessly just out of reach. "Unless you have further, Tormentum, I have no wish to supplant your Master."

The Sith Peon took in the words about feeding the dark side too much or too fast and it will consuming everything. This lesson the Titan committed to his very soul.

“Your words Circle Lord do intrigue me, the dark side demands to be fed you have said, but too much and too fast and you become consumed, perhaps like the tragedy of Lord Nihilus who became that insatiable hunger you speak of.”

Tormentum then paused.
“I have no Master, I have yet to be chosen. Thus there is none to supplant.”

Iudex narrowed his eyes as he leaned closer towards Tormentum's face. "Oh? Very new then." He held an unblinking stare for several moments, committing every pore of the face to memory. Finally, after a few excruciating minutes, Iudex backed away, content with his actions.

"You intrigue me, Peon. I'll be keeping my eye on you, a fate you very well may grow to regret." He chuckled, giving Tormentum a empathetic pat on the shoulder as he suddenly moved past him. "Enjoy the rest of the Feast Tormentum, who knows, this might be the last one you ever see. As for me, I've got to find my muse.."

The Titan Peon was elated to have intrigued a Circle Lord, one who knew the power of enigma, something alien to this tall half Sith who had endeavored toward Saarai, to speak his mind always. However, this brief encounter had filled Tormentum with thoughts that to survive the undertow of the darkness, he’d need to adapt, to conceal himself in shadow and play the game.

The Sith Peon bowed as the Circle Lord bid him leave and pat him on the shoulder. Tormentum would profit from this conversation, and if he was to die sooner than later, he had been warned.

TAG: @Silvertough
All Sith at Galla

 

OOC: A combo with @darthbernael

IC: Azathoth and Bernael
Philosophical Undertakings

After his conversation with Iudex, the newly refocused and more calm Azathoth would make his way to find Bernael. He would offer the Circle Lord a bow as he arose and spoke.

"It is an honor Circle Lord Bernael, I do believe you wished to converse with me," he spoke, eyeing the man as tilted his head wondering if he could get a read on him. While it was not the first time the two of them had met, it was certainly the first time they would have an actual conversation with one another. Azathoth had been greatly impressed with Bernael's battle prowess... he wondered if his respect for the man would wax or wane?

”You have swiftly found yourself among the high and powerful, Lord Azathoth.” A smile touched the corner of his lips, ”But, you did display your prowess in battle against Snoke. So that attention would be paid you. Tell me, did you expect the...diversity of belief when you found yourself in this Order?”

A sly smile spread across Azathoth's lips as Bernael asked his question. Yes, he was certainly different to Iudex, far more reading between the lines with this one. But Azathoth could play both parts, he was rather adaptable.

"I was not sure what to expect in all honesty..." he mused, tilting his head in curiosity. "To an outsider, any organization like this one would look rather monolithic,"

He paused for a moment... "But I care little for how others obtain power, their motivations for doing so or otherwise... what matters is those that have it, and those that do not. That is what unifies after all, what makes us Sith. Power."

A low chuckle came from Bernael’s lips, ”Don’t tell me that’s the only lesson you have learned of the Sith. Yes, power is one of our cornerstones but is a foundation built upon only one thing a secure foundation?” He lifted his chalice to his lips, sighed, eyed one of the attendants, a thought lancing out.

His attention returned to Azathoth, ”Did either Circle Lord Iudex or I reach our positions, the other’s either, sheerly by being the most powerful?” The silver of his eyes darkened slightly, ”If you seek power simply for power’s sake you will find yourself disappointed and enthralled to forces beyond your control.”

Azathoth repressed a scoff as he eyed the Circle Lord.

"Perhaps you misunderstand and underestimate me, Circe Lord Bernael..." his tone was distant, perhaps a little exasperated but not overly so.

"You describe a limited power. The power of the individual. That is only one fragment of power, but not all that I value or all that makes a Circle Lord"

He paused a rue smile on his face. "As you said... a diversity of beliefs... and yet we Sith seek to impose our will unto those weaker than us, those we train, those that follow us... those we love." His eyes glinted as he said this.

"But did I ever say I obtain power for power's sake alone... no I did not... you assume much about me Circle Lord Bernael... and yet you know me little, as I have yet to determine my path"

The same, sly smile was on his lips.

"All the same I am curious... why do you think you did become a Circle Lord?"

At the response, Bernael did laugh, a genuine one. ”I’m sure there were many factors involved in my ascension. Of course power, but also belief, belief from others that I, in that position, could assist in elevating the Sith to new heights.”

The attendant returned, refilling Bernael’s chalice. He sipped it, glancing at Azathoth, ”Taking offense, or assuming I assumed something, when neither should have occurred does tell me much, young one. Your emphasis on love, how you emphasized it, does as well. I thank you for information freely given, if unintended.”

Another sip, ”Yes, our will, those that lead, molds those that follow, intentionally or unintentionally, through our actions or inaction. Tell me, though, I can feel your distaste of love, which would you rather have follow you, that you believe trusts you, one that simply does because they are fearful that you will destroy them or one who does so because they love you?”

He smiled softly, ”Love means many things, has many faces, whether personal or platonic. Denying or avoiding it only handicaps you, even if it’s familial.”

"That belief... and that elevation are just other forms of power," Azathoth spoke with some amusement before turning his attention back to what else Bernael had to say. It was clear now that both of them were trying to figure the other out, and it was delightfully fun.

But what Bernael said at the end, that of familial love it struck a nerve in Azathoth. A reminder that the ideals Azathoth touted and what was the reality of his seemingly empty heart were not one and the same. Not any more. Bernael perhaps sensed this, but probably did not understand the depth of it or what it entailed. Azathoth frowned slightly, thinking for a moment further.

"I would rather have someone follow me that fears and loves me, for the two in conjunction would serve as powerful motivations... but if I had to choose. It would be fear,"

One of his early lessons with Insipid flashed in his mind. That in which Insipid had taught him that a Sith wants fear, not awe. Azathoth saw this as the same.

"For love is fickle and I cannot control it, but fear I can impose, I can generate, it is of far great use," Azathoth was forming his argument from the propositions Bernael put forth, not from what he actually believed, Bernael was likely to sense that, the conclusion was the same, the reasoning was just... shifted. It was also clear that Azathoth failed completely to understand what love was. As he described it simply as a tool, something to use, not something to yearn for in and of itself.

Bernael chuckled softly, ”Fear is a useful tool, but often leads people to betray you to seek their own safety. Love has its faults, which is also different from awe. However, it cannot be taught, it must be experienced. It may not take one attempt but many before you understand it, understand the walls it causes one to erect. And it too can destroy you, or be used against you.”

A sigh, ”However we are talking in circles. Especially as the Emperor hasn’t admitted something that is plain to see, I can sense from your response. Many lessons yet there are, many you must experience and not learn vicariously.” He chuckled darkly, sipping his drink. Azathoth was a brilliant and swiftly learning mind but yes there were gaps. Gaps that both great joy and great loss filled with knowledge.

Azathoth's frown deepened, at the mention of 'awe' and of his recent memory of the lesson with Insipid. So Bernael was trying to read his mind was he? This resulted in Azathoth paying less attention to what Bernael had to say, Azathoth's mind becoming paranoid once more as he replayed memories of Snoke and Palpatine each invading his mind. His mistrusting nature flaring up again as he sealed himself inwardly once more.

He hesitated and then began to ask Bernael what he had asked Iudex.

"I do have a request of you Circle Lord Bernael... I suffered a vision of the supposedly dead Palpatine before I came to this time, Emperor Insipid witnessed it as well. This has caused me to believe there is a chance he is still alive, he spoke that he was on Exegol. The Emperor granted me permission to locate and destroy this potential threat. I have requested the aid of Circle Lord Iudex and he agreed... I know ask the same of you,"

Azathoth expected Bernael would want clarification... or perhaps not this being seemed to know this one would not expect.

Bernael snorted slightly as he felt Azathoth’s mental defenses slam up, not that it would stop a Circle Lord if they wished to rip through them. But it did tell him that he’d been very close to a point that Azathoth felt personal.

”Visions can be true or can be traps, or both. Snoke was definitely a fan of them.” He paused, thinking about something no one else really knew, yet. ”As...was...my Father. But, it is worth exploring and better that you have sought me out. We will have to go through Sabel’s territory and, as far as I know, only a couple of us are allowed passage without an escort by his people, these days, myself being one of them. The departed Lord Hate being the other ”

"Yes I thought it was Snoke for some time... but the details of the vision and what I have learned of Snoke... there are two many incongruences in my mind for that to be the case,"

He nodded his head thinking for a moment.

"So we are in agreement then? Very good... there is one final request I have. That of your black lightning. It felt so very cold when you used it, so wonderous... it is a power I would very much like to learn. If you are willing to teach me?"

In the act of lifting his chalice to his lips, Bernael paused. His hand moved back down as the other stroked his chin for a moment. His eyes looked into Azathoth, the color drifting from silver to black and back again. ”It could be of great use for another to learn that. Yes, I will assist you in learning how to utilize it.”

He chuckled for a moment, ”Of course I’d suggest finding us a training space away from anyone else, and that can survive the entire place freezing, as you learn.”

Azathoth smiled, pleased that Bernael had agreed. In honesty 'cold' abilities he had been experimenting with recently and it was something he felt a certain kinship with, so to add this to his capabilities would be most useful.

"I am sure we are capable of finding such a place, there are many barren worlds that exist that could serve as a training space, I thank you Circle Lord Bernael,"

Azathoth mused quietly to himself, noting the way Bernael shifted his eye color.

”Too true. And doing such is part of what being a Circle Lord entails. So I look forward to it.” Bernael’s smile was small, the merest lifting of the corner of his lips. ”Inform me when you have found an equitable planet and we may do so. Is there anything else that you would like to discuss?” he asked, glancing around once more to see if there were others that he should talk to before glancing back at his wife again.

Azathoth tilted his head, his mind whirring silently.

"I shall do so and there is not Circle Lord Bernael..."

He bowed to the man before turning and leaving. He had rather mixed feelings at the conclusion of his conversation with Bernael. On the one hand, he had agreed to aid Azathoth in his mission and teach him the secrets of the frozen black lightning. However, their talks about 'love' and power, and perhaps more egregiously Bernael's intrusion into his mind... it unsettled Azathoth greatly. He could not shake the feeling he was being lectured to the entire time, perhaps he was filling his role as Circle Lord... but still, there was a certain unspoken smugness with Bernael's words that annoyed Azathoth.

And you are any different? He thought in a moment of self-awareness, he sighed. Perhaps it was the nature of the Sith to posture around like that with their words. Iudex, had done something similar with his pheromones and his need for directness, but there was that undercurrent of professionalism and a certain... respect that was conveyed in his words that made it less annoying. Although it was clear Iudex found such conversations bothersome, even when it was as direct as could be.

Still he had found the philosophical undertaking with Bernael interesting despite his misgivings of how it was handled. He expected in the future they would have further, longer 'discussions'.

Azathoth focused his mind elsewhere wondering where Insipid had gone to... they had unfinished business to discuss. But first he would come to view the legendary Ravenous he had heard snippets about during his research of the Sith Order. A mortal 'prize' he seemed to offer to the Emperor... damn so Insipid would still be occupied for a little while longer. Although Azathoth was curious about this Ravenous, a conversation with him at some point could be quite interesting.

He then eyed the Peon he had spotted earlier, he had just finished speak with Iudex and so Azathoth would go over to him, his eyes studying him carefully.

"A peon... how intriguing... how the darkness waxes and wanes within you, yes most fascinating," he spoke cryptically, looking to Tormentum with interest as if Azathoth was trying to solve some puzzle.

TAG: @darthbernael @Darth Tormentum Mentions for @Silvertough @Sinrebirth @WookieeRage @Nehru_Amidala

 

IC: A Wayward Lord
Aboard the Luxury Elite...


Time hadn't existed for a while.

The struggle had seemed endless; a feeling of accomplishment as he thought he was about to pull himself free from the quicksand that had him stuck, only to sink back down, seemingly further than he'd been before.

Rinse and repeat.

And it went on and on and on…

But things were beginning to shift. Something was happening. Although the waking world still seemed out of reach, the living Force had quickly taken on a new vibrancy – filling his tired psyche with a new sense of resolve.

He heard a muffled chant in the distance. Glasses clinked on the edge of the abyss, and the Dark Side of The Force hummed with a power he’d never known before. He knew it was the Dark Side specifically, in fact it’s counterpart at this moment in time seemed to be all but non-existent. No trace of it.

But this was all part of the dream.

Was he dead? It had felt like a slumber but why was it so… infinite?

Time…

It’s nigh…

He could feel his body for the first time in forever, seemingly able to consciously manipulate more and more nerves with each passing moment. He wiggled his fingers and felt a warmth beneath his palms, soft to the touch.

Let’s go…
oh come one, won’t you flicker for us, Prince?

The voices were familiar, friends from long ago, the words of which only musings of which only he was permitted to hear.

He pushed and struggled, cursing the sinking field that was hell-bent on swallowing him. He could feel his teeth. In the next moment he ground them together almost to shatter-point.

Let’s go, Let’s go! This came to him in galactic basic, Duros and Jawaese simultaniously.

Lord Anark would awaken in one of two states; it would be a coin toss between the most extreme high and the most extreme low, it was rare that he ever lingered anywhere in between.

And there it was; a lift, a colossal phantom hand taking him into its nurturing hold. With a final push the Sith’s eyelids were pried open. Two black holes encased in deep yellow embers. He shot forward, feeling something slip in his neck as he brought himself up to a ninety degree angle. He didn’t care. He welcomed the pain, the real, tangible pain. It took him only a few moments to realise that he was naked, save for a modesty cloth loosely wrapped around his nether region. He tried to speak but nothing came out. His throat felt swollen, like a legion of angry wasps had nested in there the day he… fell asleep.

Where was he? His eyes began to adjust to the light. His ears were rung but some faint beeps and chimes reached them.

When was he?

How long had he been out? He swung his legs, which looked alarmingly fatter than they had when he’d last looked at them, over the edge of the bed he was on. The sounds were coming from some medical equipment propped up beside the bed. He realised upon trying to stand, being yanked back with a sharp sting in several places in his neck, arms and hands that he was attached to said medical equipment. He shrugged the pain off easily. He felt quite euphoric.

We’ve got all sorts of things to tell you.

Anark still couldn’t manage to speak above a whisper, and even then his voice cracked and wheezed, “I’ve enjoyed a long sleep and I feel right as rain,” he managed, addressing no one in particular.

Right as rain and fit to reign, came the reply.

A strangled chuckle escaped him as he sat there on the edge of the bed and yanked the tubes from his body.

He was unsteady on his feet when they first found the cold ground but stabilized before too long. He reached out in the Force to see if he could reach anything or anyone familiar. That was what he needed right now - something familiar.

The cloth that had kept him decent surrendered to gravity and pooled around his ankles. He didn't bother to pick it back up and headed for the white door ahead of him.

It was time to catch up with reality.

TAG: The Sith ​

 

OOC: A combo with @Darth Tormentum

IC: Azathoth and Tormentum
Philosophical Undertakings 2

"A peon... how intriguing... how the darkness waxes and wanes within you, yes most fascinating,"

The Titan had for a moment been stone, this time from Circle Lord Iudex’s omens and advice. At the words of Lord Azathoth the Peon stirred. His amber eyes coming to bear and fixating on the Emperor’s Heir.

“Indeed my Lord, for before me is ever The Void. I in a single bound feel passion that burns like a thousand suns and then futility that leaves me sinking in shadow.”

Tormentum paused, his mouth dry and broken with the outward scars.

“I am nothing. I do not seek thrones, holocrons, or even the glory of my house. I wish to be a blade, a tool to serve the Empire, a living sacrifice to the Imperium.”

Azathoth mused slightly. What an interesting fellow. Bernael was certainly right about a diversity of beliefs. But this was different, something he could work with.

"Is that so?" he said not waiting for a response. "So you are clay waiting to be molded, I take it? That is how you view yourself?"

Tormentum nodded.

“Clay and steel, waiting for someone to wield.”

The Peon lowered his gaze.

“Alas.. I have not proven myself yet, the temperer blade not yet wet with the blood of the Empire’s enemies.”

A certain smile spread over Azathoth's face. A smile that was pleased with the possibility that lay before him, and of the response the Peon gave.

​

This one was hungry to prove himself. Good.

"A good mindset for a peon to have I think..." he spoke after some thought.

"Tell me what is your name?"

The Peon bowed his head in response to the smile.

“My name is Tormentum. For from torment, suffering, I derive strength, and through training I hope to transform into the torment that breaks the enemies of the Empire.”

Visions flooded the mind of the Titan of him in backwater planets, with saber lit and crushing the throats of hooded prophets. An odd scene, he believed his own imagining.

Azathoth chuckled at the peon's response.

"Tormentum? Yes a rather apt name, as I sense much toil and anguish in your heart. So much uncertainty, so much... torment," Azathoth mused for a moment, his eyes hardening slightly as he watched the peon closely.

"And the night sister you were with... what is she to you?"

The Titan framed Peon was glad to hear a Lord understood him, so few could read the depths of his suffering. Then came the mention of Merrin.

“She is.. my lover. I believe passion, ardent affection is encouraged by the Sith Code. Through loyalties are strained by the quest for power. I suppose it is less difficult for me because I believe the elevation of the whole Empire is preferable elevation of the individual. If we climb to heights on the bones of others, we find ourselves kings of a graveyard. Why not use those bones while still cloaked in flesh and as you rise, so do they. Every empire can control with fear, and fear or reverence is needed for the order, but what if we made those that serve the Imperium do so out of love, out of devotion?”

Tormentum coughed.

“Forgive me, I did not mean to preach. My philosophy is unorthodox, but what holds us together if say another empire of darkness challenged us? How do you know who to stat loyal to if there are two emperors, and friends seem divided into two camps? Fear will not hold you to remain faithful, only love, and devotion can ensure that in the chaos you stand on the right side of things.”

Azathoth's eyes flashed in interest and the smile from before returned. The line 'the elevation of the whole Empire is preferable to the elevation of the individual' struck a particular chord and fondness in Azathoth. For he thought the same, to a degree but for very different reasons than Tormentum. He wondered, however... this conversation it was becoming a similar one to the one he had with Bernael.

"So, you think love is greater than fear?" Tormentum and Bernael would get along well it seemed. Although there was a distinguishing factor Azathoth sensed between the love Bernael described and the love Tormentum had described. One that ultimately Azathoth would define as the pathway, and would greatly change how he would interact with both of them. Azathoth's ideology was shifting ever so slightly to account for this 'love' that kept being described to him. But it was one that of course missed the point entirely of what love was.

"Emotions are indeed are a powerful tool to be used. But they are just that, tools. For when we stop controlling and bending them to our will and allow them to rule us... I think that one that does so has failed as a Sith. The same in my view, holds true for love Tormentum,"

And there it was, the modification of his beliefs. Love was just another emotion to be utilized and controlled... however... there was a further wrinkle. But first...

"What do you think on what I have just said?" intoned the Sith Underlord, his head tilting to the side in interest.

Tormentum took his gloved hand and runner his chin, taking in the words of Lord Azathoth. He pondered “emotions being tools, love being a tool.” To this he searched his mind for how to explain what he meant by love, a loaded word, an overused one at that.

“Emotions should be bent, on this we can agree. To be ruled by them is a form of heresy, you cannot have two masters, the dark side and your whims, one will overule the other. While the darkness does feed on emotion, emotion can lead someone to the Light; so great care must be taken with which emotions you feed and welcome. I choose love because the Jedi forbid it, they claim attachment leads to possession and covetousness. I argue that the love I believe in could make the Empire stronger; a love that still recognizes our self love, the elevation of self, and yet knows how to work as One Imperium though many parts. Too many Empires have fallen to infighting and power hungry apprentices trying to coup de etate their way to the top before even learning what is necessary from their masters. If apprentices loved their masters like fathers and mothers, and the masters saw their acolytes like offspring to carry on the dark legacy, we could eliminate infighting and time wasted that could be spent on conquest of our enemies.”

Azathoth narrowed his eyes at that, scoffing slightly at the mention of Masters treating their apprentices like Sons and apprentices seeing their Masters as Fathers. It was a little too convenient for Azathoth's taste... it hit too close to home. But furthermore, Azathoth could not even begin to agree with Tormentum's proposition.

Very slowly he began to speak to Tormentum, and despite how soft-spoken Azathoth was with these words there was a certain harshness behind them. "As if love is some magical solution that fixes all our problems. You cannot impose love, you cannot bend it to your will, you can only create a temporary bond of it, and perhaps manipulate those that love you to do as you see fit. But love is fickle and thus any foundation built on it is also fickle and prone to ruin. One death, one misstep, and like a house of cards it will crumble apart. Fathers can grow to hate sons. Sons can grow to hate fathers. Brothers and sisters have killed each other for eons. Spouses fall in and out of this 'love' all the time. Love is impermanent and unstable."

"But the greatest failing of love, Tormentum, is that it causes a yearning to be happy. And the goal of happiness is incongruent with the goal of power, of freedom. Our creed is not 'Through love my chains are broken, The Force shall give me happiness' it is 'Through victory, my chains are broken The Force shall free me'."

He tilted his head for a moment.

"For a while, I thought love was incongruent with achieving this freedom, power that leads to victory. But it seems that there are some Sith in our Order that love and have loved and yet have not lost sight of the goal that binds us Sith...supposedly. Power. Power for the self and power for the Order."

He paused, eyeing Tormentum.

"But unlike all other emotions the Sith commonly employ, there seems to be a tremendous risk in love."

Azathoth let out a breath, his eyes squinting for a moment. "I cannot change what you believe Tormentum, for there are those above me that would disagree with this assertion I have put forth, but I am still curious... what do you think now?"

The Titan shifted in his weight on his right leg and took in Lord Azathoth’s response. He meditated a while before giving a reply.

“The love you speak of sounds more like lust to me. ‘True love does not alter when alteration finds, it is an ever-fixed mark.’ Love doesn’t need to command others like puppets, it motivates people to do what you wish out of their own volition, this avoids the build-up of resentment which leads to ruin. The Code does say through ‘Victory our chains are broken,’ but the first lines of the Code say ‘Peace is a lie, There is Passion, Through Passion, I gain strength.’ Passion can be Ardent affection, love. Love for the dark side, love for the Sith, love for the Empire. If we did not love the darkness we’d not be here would we? And contrary to misconception Hate is not antithetical to love, it is possible to love and hate at the same time.”

Azathoth chuckled.

"No. Lust is far simpler than love. Lust I understand, and not a particularly good motivator. Its usage is limited even less than love," Azathoth tilted his head.

"Did I say love needed to command others like puppets? No, I did not. I was speaking on motivation, not domination. And passion is a far cry from love, it is a catch-all term from the extreme emotions we feel as Sith. For while the meaning of passion is vague and malleable there is one thing that is consistent in its many meanings. That it describes emotions of intensity. Agony, hate, fear, lust, torment the list goes on endlessly. But the love I am warning against is not the intense love, which should not be confused with lust. It is the calm, tranquil love. The love that yearns for peace, for serenity, and happiness. For these are aspects that in my mind go against the very nature of the Sith."

Azathoth looked to Tormentum his cold eyes taking the Peon in for a moment.

"This conversation has allowed me to separate my misgivings about love, from the value I was beginning to see in it. The danger is tranquil love but not passionate love, but the two it seems are bound together. Do you understand the distinction I am drawing Tormentum?"

Tormentum nodded.

“What you are saying is made clear in first line of code, ‘Peace is a lie, there is Passion (love).’ I myself do not see tranquility in love, its gory. To take two persons and try to make them one invites strife, fighting, and challenges which we Sith thrive on. Love doesn’t mean tranquility, it urges us towards connection and at the same time it makes us hate each other; for like Shelkath, friends stink after three days; we get on each others nerves, which becomes more prevalent with proximity of lovers. Tranquility is actually what you’ll never find in love.”

Azathoth smiled.

"Oh is that so?" he mused in an almost distracted manner. "Then tell me Tormentum when you are with this night sister, what was her name?" He paused for a moment allowing Tormentum to respond before continuing.

"Merrin"

"Well, allow me to demonstrate further the issues with love that these other passionate emotions we utilize do not have. For instance... what if you were commanded by your betters that for the good of the Order you had to kill this Merrin. What would you do?"

Tormentum felt the challenge of the Lord’s words. His heart began to pulse, his mind divining an answer.

“I’d appeal. I would make the case I am making now. That love actually strengths me as a Sith, that the bond assists in fueling my devotion to the Order and Empire with the strife of the relationship. After all the Jedi forbid such bonds, why should we? Will not more join our ranks if they can have families and lovers?”

Tormentum then paused.

“If my appeal failed. I would do what is commanded, and slay my beloved. However it would make a martyr of her in my soul; Merrin would be etched there eternal.”

Azathoth smiled once more at the peon's words.

"The Jedi forbidding something is not a prerequisite for it being adopted as a Sith practice. A correlation is not causation,"

But then Azathoth went to unveil what he finally thought on the greatest use of love. It's eradication.

"Some of the great Sith fell deeper into darkness because of the loss of their loved ones. And in my mind, that is love's greatest and truest purpose. When it is broken. One must be careful, however, the deep anguish can lead one to become unambitious... which is an undesired result. But recall your name is Tormentum. Your Name signifies that this torment in your heart gives you power, you have chosen the path of torment, you take on pain so you can consume it and let it embolden you. One can only wonder the power possible with the greatest torment, the greatest pain that one could inflict onto oneself..."

Azathoth left his words implied and not direct. For he did not want to anger the peon, merely guide him. His tone was soft, almost uncharacteristically warm.

"This talk has been of a great boon to me, and I hope a great boon to you as well. I have discussed my own ideology far more with you than I have with anyone thus far, even that of my Master. Keep that in mind Tormentum, and think about what we have discussed. I am confident you will do the right thing,"

The Titan Peon gave a nod. He had found this manner of discussion most agreeable, and like his conversation with Circle Lord Iudex, sought to profit from it.

“It is indeed a boon to me. For in this discussion I have honed my own philosophy.”

Tormentum ruminated on the words “the greatest pain that one could inflict onto oneself.” His mind turned to Merrin, he saw her lifeless and himself cradling her in his arms. Was this a vision or an apparition of his imagination? Already the Titan’s heart was pained with this glimpse. He then saw a woman in black and red robes, her eyes veiled and her lips scarlet. Who was she?

Tormentum tried to shake himself from these ‘visions’ and turned to offer Lord Azathoth another bow.

Azathoth returned the bow, the satisfied smile still on his lips as he turned away from the peon to slip back into the crowd of people.

You do realize the logical conclusion of your own argument, don't you? Spoke a voice within himself, his self-critical, paranoid nature flaring up again. Do you think you are even capable of doing what you suggested to that peon?

I won't know until I arrive at that crossroads myself

A non-answer as always

Azathoth gritted his teeth, burning his self-argument within himself as he looked to Insipid addressing Ravenous. Azathoth hung in the crowd, waiting quietly to see the interaction resolve between the two, grabbing another glass of wine. He needed it.

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