Public Of Bugs and Thugs (Character Intro)

[Xzaien]

Xzaien was pleased of course, she nodded to Vasp as she sensed a bit of mutual respect there. While Vasp walked off She listened to the loud man /continually/ attempt to peeve at least one of them off, mostly aimed at Ravenous. She looked quite displeased with the volume of BS launched into her ears at light-speed. Both literally and figuratively performing the Holdo Maneuver. She face-palmed. Yep, she face-palmed. Likely because she had no idea how this idiot was conceived not to mention how he was able to become a Captain of all things, and how this was probably a reason why airlock-abortions existed. She knew that she could just conjure a literal force storm and destroy the shipyard in a nano-second but it was not a good idea to start a war with the Correllian Confederation over a few mean words.

She lowered her hand from her face, offhandedly gesturing. This gesture sounded a deep vibrato effect that muted everything coming in, including the Captains idiocy and cries for Eugenics making a return. All that was able to be heard was the vibrato effect, Chkhoz, Ravenous, Xzaien, and her four Space Marines. Peace and quiet at last.

Xzaien looked toward Ravenous, speaking toward him.

"Lord Ravenous, If you would come and discuss as well, I would be most grateful."

As she started walking toward the Food Court, her Space Marines followed. Their deep footsteps, and sounds of servomotors moving filling the bubble's air. As they walked, a few suited men nodded to Xzaien as they walked past. Each of them wearing a particularly featureless, black Alderaanian Style of Formal Wear with a ear-communicator. On their lapels, a barely visible brass token was seen. Same symbol as the Space Marines. Infiltrator's perhaps? Nevertheless, the passing of these men was quick and efficient. They seemed to be walking toward where Xzaien was being a pleasant host and where the Captain's Cowardly Bot lay gushing blue-green coolant.

Xzaien finally spoke to Chkhoz.

"I do not seek loyalty from you, I seek to awaken the power within. As you most likely know, I know a great many things about the power you hold and am in need of a learner to pass it onto. I know that you are loyal to your friends of course, but I will offer them so much more. I would be honored to invite you to Cathay as a guest. Perhaps not to sign a official pledge of allegiance but a associate, a reliable person I can call on if the time need it. Perhaps a... person who can make my life and the Catharian Hegemony's a little easier. You see my dear friend, My world and I do not hail from this... time period to the exact. A civilization lost in time. I can offer you Precursor Technologies, a permanent place of habitation, and perhaps as much tinkering as you desire. But, if this were to be a long term arrangement. I would need your services for much-much more than just you sitting and tinkering alone."

She turned to Ravenous.

"I know that you are a Dark-Sider. I sensed it light-years away. What I know about you, is that your mask belongs to someone rightfully feared, and deadly. A person who was able to drain an entire world of its Force Energies and store it within himself. A walking plague, Lord of Hunger. But the man within the mask is much more different... I sense your skill in the usage of the Lightsaber, and of your followers. That ship out there, loaded with materials by anonymous men intrigues me greatly. Perhaps we could help each-other hmm? I can offer you a place of safe harborage and you can teach my Dark Templars the way of the now as they... use far more "Ancient" powers to destroy their enemies. In exchange of a place to hide, as well all the benefits the Catharian Hegemony can offer to you. I must ask of one simple favor. To assist me in the solidification of my demesne of neighboring Unknown-Region Systems. Such as the systems of Tiantang, and perhaps the Chiss Homeworld. I am sure you have no qualms bloodying your lightsaber, and honing your powers against a enemy.

 

[Chkhoz Pikeyy]

Chkhoz sighed and hunched his shoulders over as he walked with his new pair of acquaintances. Where he was interested in the concept of having power passed onto him, he felt it would be hard to differentiate this new life she offered him now, and the one he was destined to fulfill those 4 years ago. Except, if he didn't do what she wanted, when she wanted... she held so much power that she could probably crush him just by giving him a mean look. Her grasp would be much tighter than that of Roche, or even the Hive Queen. Associates sounded much more professional, and deep down, Chkhoz liked that...but it better stay that way. Chkhoz and Xzaien found a table to sit at, and sat across from each other accordingly. Ravenous followed shortly behind, finding a spot between the two who reached the table before him. The space marines assumed a protective stance around the table as the three prepared to speak.

"I am not keen on going anywhere anytime soon. Still, I appreciate this offer much more now that you clarify. I would greatly appreciate all that you could provide for me, after all, I am a visionary... I... I dream of a company of my own... leaving a proud legacy of machines in the stains of time. Still, I do not fear poverty as much as I fear servitude, and you, ma'am, seem capable of much destruction. I would be more than happy to work with you and not, let us say, for you...and Ma'am of all the woman I've known outside of my race, you are, by far, the most attractive individual I have set eyes on."

He felt with that last remark, his air of pseudo-professionalism had evaporated, and he was therefore making a fool of himself. Damn it all, he knew he should have swindled a Verpine Headband before departing from Roche. Even if it quite literally put a price on his head, it was well worth it if it mean't his brain would only be thinking as fast as his lips. He paused for a moment.

Why exactly did he bring that up? He wasn't necessarily trying to flatter her, or anything, but get a point across.

"Let's just say, you are not necessarily the type of girl one would bring home to the Hive Mother."

Women powerful in the force had a strange effect on the poor insectoid: Sometimes he just couldn't control himself when he spoke to them one on one. His wild, untrained, force would prove susceptible to the trespasses of Passion, as anything over a tender moment could render him dumbfounded. He swears that it's an instinctual thing, but other Verpine would likely choose to disagree at that notion.

"Heh, I am different though, I'd take you to her--"

He scratched his head and shook his head as if the motion would shake away his bold remarks. They really caught him by surprise this time. He thought the little compliment he sent beforehand would have been enough to satisfy his little impulse. He felt like an idiot, and was a little embarrassed in a flustering way. Oddly, he felt that this time was different, however, like he knew that he meant what he said, as inappropriate as it was.

Moments passed as the droid began to translate to the group, but he feared her response...maybe she would gloss over it and leave the assault to her subconscious.

He began to speak again as his point finally came back to him.

"I do not shy away from the idea of cooperation with you, you seem of a friendly ilk. I would be glad to form a sort of covenant with you, if it meant I could work with you on something you needed, from time to time. This could do wonders for my dream, but please, do not be offended if I do not wish to be an official part of your Hegemony..."

| Xzaien | Ravenous |​

 

[Ravenous]

Ravenous trailed behind his newest acquaintances his intent on listening to Xzaien 's offer. The Hegemony...A strange sort of people, One of those powers that remains stagnant through decades of war yet is relatively untouched by the spoils of war. Hypocrites. Every single major power in the galaxy was a hypocrite in one way or another, they are disgusting, their mere existence was enough to make Ravenous' insides churn. Rodents, The Sith, Jedi and criminal scum alike were all oversized rodents, And when rodents venture outside their territory they get exterminated, Quickly and with extreme prejudice. Perhaps this woman could help him in his endeavor.

Ravenous seated himself as the three began openly conversating. A barrier surrounded the three the iron will of the space marines able to substitute for any steel wall.

Chkhoz Pikeyy began to flirt with the woman though his obvious nervous expression portrayed something else, What could this possibly achieve? Surely he didn't intend to use sultry to influence the talk after all one of them was a male.

But what wasn't the confused ramblings of a lovestruck child were some points. When what happened in the hanger was brought into consideration it was no doubt in Ravenous' mind, This lady could handily lay him out and even that was assuming Ravenous could get past her escort for he had yet to access what these brutes were actually capable of.

Ravenous opened up his thoughts finally in order.

"Number one: You mentioned you could sense me from light-years away, How is this possible? I know for a fact I have not yet reached such affinity in the Force that my presence is a beacon to all who come near it so the only other feasible explanation I can conjure would be that you were searching for a presence like mine specifically. " Number two when you say 'Ancient Powers' what exactly does that entail? The last time I encountered an ancient power I got stuck with an incessant voice in the back of my psyche." Lastly, I find it objective to inform you my forces are mighty yet few only a few thousand soldiers at my disposal. Our fleets are more or less in the same condition. Not to mention that our prime Superiex Orex Mauda has been absent for some time now"

Ravenous placed an open palm on his bony white mask the power emitting from it making it volatile to the touch. His mask was begrudgingly removed from his face revealing the two-faced monstrosity that was his being. One side was burned to a crisp while the other was virtually unphased by the horrors of the galaxy, His long black hair fell out of his hood its endless curly strands unable to shroud the dark lord's glowing orange eyes.

"I honestly think this could work out, If you could help us build up we could help you take out your neighbors in the region. It evens works out that we're both in the same relative area."

Ravenous rose out of his seat and walked over to the still seated Xzaien his hands now on her shoulders. He leaned in towards her ears and whispered something in a whimsical yet sinister tone.

"We could be the First Order and more before they even return"

 

[Xzaien]

Xzaien sat down at the three man table, directly in-front of Chkhoz with Ravenous to her right. She sat, crossing her legs underneath the table all Aristocratic like. She took a few offhanded glances at the Space Marines as they formed a Semi-Circle around the group. She had her gloved hands on her lap as she listened intently to Chkhoz's words. Xzaien listened as he remarked that he was receptive, but then he came to the part where he let out a bit of his mind. Xzaien only smiled at this remark. She spoke after he was finished.

"I am deeply flattered my friend. However, servitude is not what I ask of you. I ask of your assistance in the manufacture of war material for the Catharian Hegemony as well as matters of re-integration of the Hegemony's obsolete technologies to be effective in the modern battlefield. I am sure your technical expertise would fit in well with my Engineering Corps. Your friends on the otherhand will also be allowed to join in on our arrangements. However, as if you accept these terms. You will have to follow Catharian Laws as you will be living on its Capital World, Cathay. For you, I can give you anything you desire, weath, women, a place in something greater than yourself. Anything."

As she quieted, she listened to Lord Ravenous speak out toward her his questions piercing into the Cathar's mind as she formulated a response.

"Lord Ravenous, I am sure that you know why. The history books, history holos all speak of Ancient Sith Lords holding powers so destructive and powerful that the only reason why they were defeated in wars against the Old Republic was because of their infighting. These powers, were all but extinct. Until now. I am searching for someone powerful, powerful enough and with the Capabilities to destroy worlds. The mask you wear, held these powers long ago. But, to unlock them. You must not use it as a crutch, but dig deeper. I am sure you understand. These Ancient Powers, powers that could destroy entire fleets, rend the oceans from worlds, and exterminate billions, forces of the Dark-Side and its forbidden knowledge exist in my Dark Templar's Monastery. Surely, learning these powers wouldn't make you a feared bastion of Dark-Side energy, a wound in the force. I am well aware of your follower's combat capabilities. Small, yet perfectly capable of punching above its weight class in many situations. The Catharian Army, numbers in the in the Millions, surely a small donation of a few Catharian Regulars should make your "Chapter" of troopers more effective in a conventional set of roles. I can also offer you a place to practice your powers, a home to house your followers. However, in exchange for these boons I ask of one single thing from you. Loyalty, and a passion to fight for something larger than yourself. However, if you wish only to be associates then I can offer you only a place of safe harborage."

As Ravenous leaned in, she listened.

"I seek not the emulation of past powers. But the creation of new one. One feared, and respected throughout the Galaxy. One that offers great boons to its peoples, and treats them fairly. But, to its enemies, a undying bastion of steel in the face of Galactic Chaos. A power that retains the values of both the Old Republic, and Revan's once great Empire and unifies it into one glorious barrier against Chaos, against the powers that be."

 

[Chkhoz Pikeyy]

The woman's smile charmed the oddball Verpine. He was glad she took well to it, as unintentional as his romantic advancements were. However, he wasn't so sure about the terms she proposed.

While he was friends with the Wookies, even close friends with one, he felt that none of them would be interested in the life of luxury that the woman would so graciously give them, allegedly. The traders seemed to do just fine for themselves, and they were already well-rooted in the SJO, making frequent trips to their homeworld of Kashyyyk. If he wanted to do anything with the Catharian Hegemony; it would be best for him to sever the ties between him and the Wookies first.

Then there was Chkhoz's doubts in his own abilities. He was young, and had plenty of ideas, yet he lacked discipline in many areas of his life. He refused to sign onto anything he couldn't fully deliver in, and feared what would happen to him if he were to make an ineffective weapon or un-optimized cardio-regulator, despite his best efforts. Overall, he had talents, and useful analytical abilities, but nearly no experience in leading projects of his own. The young bug just felt like he wasn't ready for the exact commitment that the Cathar woman was wanting from him. He was never one for wealth, or his pick of women, and if he wanted to be a chauvinist, he would have never left the Roche rock. It was better, but it still missed the mark.

"This is a good deal...A very good deal. But I do not believe it is the one for me. If it would not offend you, I would appreciate simply holding out on this particular offer. This gig feels too similar to the one I was born into, and it is not that I hold any contempt to my former home, but, I don't want to be just another worker... which now, that is most likely all that I am good for... You also mentioned something about passing on power to me? That is having to do with the force powers correct? I do wish for something a little more out of my life...I do not understand this 'Force' at all...If you wish to be a guide and friend there... perhaps I'd be willing to spend some time under your...tutelage. In my spare time, I could prepare myself to you and your Hegemony more formally, and effectively create custom jobs for you as an ally on a contract. A contract... that may work...An altered offer like that would be much more palatable for me.

The insectoid listened attentively as Ravenous and Xzaien discussed the great power they could amass together, and it was now that it hit him; just how frighteningly immense these two leaders were. Part of him wanted to be like them, exuding confidence and meeting with fellow officials to determine the fates of nations, and the like. If these two really were so powerful in their 'Force', maybe the reason they both found him was because they sensed a great potential in him, or his future. Perhaps his purpose would be in a role provided by the likes of these two.

| Xzaien | Ravenous |​

 

[Ravenous]

Ravenous leaned back giving himself and Xzaien breathing room. He stroked his small untamed facial hair lost in deep thought, She made a fair point all these previous powers had ultimately failed in their motives of galactic domination all thanks to their own self-destructive nature. Then again she also made the point of keeping the values of the old republic which was unacceptable in every quantity. The old republic was a time of war, poverty and pain the exact thing Ravenous so desperately wanted to avoid.

Furthermore, with all the hegemony's templars, there was no denying the fact that they were religious in some aspect which directly struck at the core of the Emergence Empires core. Religious fanaticism, it was the very driving force behind the Emergence Empire, it was also a personal vendetta of Ravenous himself. All of them, every single religion in the galaxy is a plague and history proved this claim, Just thinking about the endless sermons and ignorance was enough to make Ravenous hurl.

Ravenous extended a palm towards his mask its power still emitting towards those around it. With a quivering uneasy hand, he dawned the power of Nihilus once more a red crackle of energy running through his body for a quick second. Xzaien was right about one thing, Nihilus is the omega of the natural order of life and by enduring his spirit Ravenous would one day command that power. He walked back to his seat his sudden lack of energy taking its toll.

He shook his head as he spoke.

"No. I'm not another religious fanatic. In fact, I hate all religions with a burning passion, It fuels my rage and perpetuates my sadistic nature. It pushes my desire to flay the skin of every priest who dares spread ignorance, I. HATE. THEM. And if you and your hegemony are disciples of such treachery then I hate you too. I'm purging the lies the galaxy has been fed and burning down the old regime in favor of a new era of science. The first order was the most powerful military the galaxy had ever seen and you know what happened? They got bludgeoned to hell by a stampede of angry cultists. You said you were away from galactic matters after all, what could YOU possibly know about what powers are worthy of reclamation?!"

Ravenous' tone had taken a turn for his darker less reasonable side as his frustration began to take root.

"Besides the only thing I and Revan have in common is our enthusiasm for masks."

Chkhoz Pikeyy ​

 

[Xzaien]

Xzaien watched as Ravenous stepped back and sat back down. She listened to his rage fueled arguments and indeed listened closely. Her expression was left unchanging from the pleasant half-smirk she had on the entire conversation. She nodded along as he continued his answering, eating it up. She wasn't offended that Ravenous took great offense to her mention of a Dark Templar. She knew of course, that she would have to explain herself and give a few more details on the Hegemony.

"I speak not on the power of worshiping the Dark-Side of the Force. But its usage in warfare, and its powers when combined with the Light. My Templars do not worship anything of the Dark-Side. They are fueled by their yearning for its teachings and power to be known across the Galaxy, feared and respected as a tool for those powerful enough to wield it. Katarr, Taris, Medriaas. These worlds were cleansed by the power of the men and women who wielded the Dark-Side, and worlds long lost. Such as Tython, Zakuul. All had men and women willing to use the force to destroy or to save. Nowadays, the Force should not be worshiped as it still is. But, taught not only as a weapon for war. But a healing veil before and after. The mask you wear is death itself, a wound in the force. A being, able to manipulate it to its will. From what my followers tell me, The First Order existed as an offshoot of this great evil, not only partially destroyed by the acts of a being conceived by the Force itself, but destroyed once this great evil returned and then silenced. As with many Empire and Galactic Power. The death of a leader, typically results in the death of the power itself."

She waited for Ravenous to digest her talk before continuing once more.

"I know very little of what exists today in person, however I have forseen most of it. Again, the Galaxy is shattered once more. All powers, large and small attempting to bring back dead civilizations. The Silver Jedi, the Sith Empire. What needs to be given is the establishment of a New Power that can run everything efficiently. In my Ten Thousand Year hiatus, thousands of iterations of both the Sith Empire, and Republic have risen and fallen. I seek to teach my people the ways of learning from the past. To grow from it, and through growing. Earn victory. User in a new age of technological development and see all of these plagues wiped away and exchanged for a culture of understanding, and learning. However I am only but one woman, for despite my goals and ambitions I seek those who hold similar beliefs. This is why I felt your presence in hyperspace."

It would seem Xzaien's words had a intent of collaboration or an neutral proposition that could be altered in a way that is beneficial. A compromise perhaps? In regards to Xzaien finishing her spiel, she turned to Chkhoz and nodded toward the Verpine. Of course, Xzaien knew what the value of family meant to someone such as Chkhoz. Loyalty to family and friends before loyalty to anyone else. Yet, Chkhoz's last statement. She understood that, Chkhoz was ready for collaboration, not in the politics. But perhaps inside. She spoke to him in a understanding tone.

"I see my friend. I see the merits of your proposal to prepare yourself first. Of course, I shall teach you. However, I give you this as a "pass" through Catharian Space."

She looked toward the Space Marine Squad Leader who stood right over her shoulder. He seemed to reach behind himself and retrieve something covered in a fine leather bag. The symbol on the front was of course, the Catharian Emblem seen on the Space Marine's shoulder guard. If Chkhoz looked inside of the bag, which was placed directly infront of him. There would be two objects inside.

The first of which was a short cylindrical metal object. Lightly engraved, looking like a sword hilt by the looks of it. But having a big red button near the very tip of it. Of course, if Chkhoz knew anything about the force. It was a Lightsaber. This one clearly was a few inches shorter than usual and would fit into Chkhoz's hands pretty well. The second was much more interesting. A small silver coin. Nearly featureless in shape but having a few words written upon it in a unfamiliar language.

"Ex Unitae Vires"

Whatever that means. Despite its featureless cover. It looked as if it were possible to put it into a ship's Navi-Computer. Likely a data-chit for the co-ordinates to Cathay. Xzaien spoke.

"This is your first lesson my friend. The object before you is a weapon, dangerous, a weapon for only the powerful to hold. I believe it is yours now. And that coin, That is the key to Cathay. I am sure you'll figure out its use if you know anything about Navi-Computers my friend. I will be waiting for your arrival on Cathay. I will let you leave to find your friends now if you would like to do so, or you could leave with me and we'll start immediately. It is your call of course."

Ravenous Chkhoz Pikeyy

 

[Chkhoz Pikeyy]

The Verpine was ecstatic at the sight of such fine gifts; this woman really meant business! Her astute and tactful timing only sweetened the deal even further; in all the insectoid's travels, spanning across nearly the entire core and mid-rim, he had never had his own terms accepted so quaintly. Looking up from his new equipment, he saw the woman continue to smile sweetly, in her aristocratic fashion. His eyes widened, which was one of his only telltale indications of him being a very happy bug. Meanwhile, a uniformed Catharian guard stepped to the table, making himself clear between two of the guards, and awaited for a pause in the conversations before inquiring about what foodstuff the trio would like to have ordered for them.

"Oh...Gracious, wonderful, woman! I did not even recognize what this was at first!"

The young bug laughed heartily; an action he had never done before.

"I will improve what I can so I can more readily learn from you. And, please friend, when we do draw near and I can see your character more closely, which today, is most favorable in my eyes; well, expect the best that I can offer!"

It was safe to assume that Xzaien had left a good impression on Chkhoz, and the opportunities she provided motivated him to set the coarse of his future a step further in her direction. He looked forward to what could come of their friendship and collaboration.

"At any pace, I agree to the terms. But I will go and clear things up with the Wooks and see to gaining something of a ship, perhaps some clothes for myself. You have done a great thing for me, invest this time for myself, and I will not betray our deal."

| Xzaien | Ravenous |​

 

[Ravenous]

Ravenous slumped down in his seat listening intently to Xzaien . Perhaps he shouldn't have begun ranting before receiving more explicit details about the hegemony, but either way, he wasn't wrong in what he said every time the threat of change rose over the horizon it was eclipsed by the moon of ignorance. It was futile, change can not be stopped it is inevitable it is destiny he was destiny.

"So you are telling me that you do not worship the dark side, rather you explore its uses. This appears to be plausible as I sense no malcontent in the shadows of your mind. I'm inclined to believe you. But, We are not yet ready for an alliance of sorts we ourselves are still in the process of developing a foothold in the grander scheme of things. I'm not necessarily turning you down I would simply like to be stronger more established before rushing into any kind of democratic alliance.

Ravenous was awaiting her response as the marines proved that they were not just statues or the like. They handed Chkhoz Pikeyy a bag of sorts with an emblem embedded on its leather. Ravenous leaned in to get a closer look as Chkhoz pulled out the hilt what was undoubtedly a lightsaber. Ravenous could sense the crystal inside but not its alignment in the force, Interesting. He wondered what color would prevail when its power was beckoned.

"Careful. That is no mere weapon but an extension of yourself and the power you may one day wield."

He turned his focus towards Xzaien

"As for you. If you really think you are ready to wield the true power of Nihilus then prove that you are worthy.

The man removed his mask once more and slid it across the table towards the woman.

"If you are truly ready then you will survive. Only the strong survive under Nihilus, Prove that you are strong and I will be more inclined to side with you."

 

[Xzaien]

Xzaien listened patiently as Chkhoz expressed his gratitude. She smiled pleasantly as she allowed him to order whatever he liked. Force knows that she could afford it. While Chkhoz ordered his foodstuffs she turned her attention to Ravenous who had changed his tone of voice, albeit slightly. Only when he took off the Mask of Nihlius did she smirk. Of course, she knew Ravenous is attempting to goad her into putting on the mask and becoming a slave of Nihlius. However, she was crafty as she stood up from the table and faced the small bone mask. Slowly but surely she shut her eyes and put her hands into a prayer motion. Soon, the world around the group seemed to slow deeply as the very aspect of Nihlius began to take shape in-front of them. This slowed time was accompanied by a feeling of darkness, a ripple of dark-side energy.

​

The mask on the table vibrated as if manipulated by the force yet, its unnatural movements and erratic behavior were odd to behold. Soon a mist of black smoke would form, followed by tendrils of similarly colored force energy which whipped the table and prodded at the air. After a few moments, the mask itself rose upon the table, arising to head level of Xzaien's as two red bulbs of energy formed behind the mask's two eye holes. The form behind the mask spoke. Not in Galactic Basic, but Ancient Sith. Surely Ravenous knew Ancient Sith.

"I live. Again."

The voice reverberated, as if Nihlius himself was reaching beyond the grave. It shook the air and rumbled the ground. However, there would seem that a minor setback in Nihlius's return from the grave was stopped. Xzaien's eyes were open, and they also glowed a bright purple which illuminated the bubble fully in this bright purple light. Xzaien slowly extended her hand toward the aspect of Nihlius, and from her gloved fingertips shot out a large sweeping electric cloud of dark purple which zapped at the corners of the mask. The sound would be quite loud from this distance as electricity licked at the table and burned small holes into it. Soon, the aspect of Nihlius would appear to be glowing a bright red as it would seem that the very spirit of Nihlius was being burned away. As a response to this forceful taming the aspect of Nihlius would let out a loud reverberating scream as the mask shook every which way, and the blood red bulbs of energy behind the mask soon imploded into a large sweeping purplish light. After all was said and done, the mask dropped onto the table. It's white bony surface coursing with cracks of purple energy which cut into the very flesh of the mask. It was...

Nihlius Reborn​

 

[Chkhoz Pikeyy]

Chkhoz asked the middleman for some noodles of some kind, his insect equivalent of a stomach aching at the thought of trying a new food. He figured he would be fine; it just may take a little more time for his mouth and jaw to get used to the texture and flavor of the foreign food, yet this was something he had wanted to try for a long time.

As the man had stepped away, Chkhoz felt the state of his vicinity change strangely. Everyone outside the table seemed to be moving, breathing, and speaking a little faster than normal. He turned back to see what was happening right before him.

What was occuring seemed almost indescribable, these people were able to do simply whatever they pleased with their powers. While it didn't especially intrigue the young bug, the frightful coalescing of some ancient dark lord, right before his very eyes, demanded his full attention.

| Xzaien | Ravenous |​

 

[Ravenous]

A sadistic smile embodied the burnt crispy face of Ravenous his bloodlust ignited. She was strong, Incredibly strong. But not stronger than Nihilus the only way he could endure Nihilus was because he needed a vessel a being able to hold a FRACTION of his power. She would be lost, lost in the endless void of Nihilus. He has been lost in the depths of Nihilus and from experience, Ravenous knows its a dark place. To his surprise, the woman didn't dawn the mask as he assumed he would. She bowed her head towards the mask and went into a meditative stance, Her power coursed through the air and into those around her producing a strange sorrow, one he had never felt before.

No not sorrow...Lust, No that still wasn't the right word to describe the feeling...

Hunger. Insatiable hunger.

The mask rose from the table its power amplified by what Ravenous could only describe as a ritual, as a result, his abilities were heightened. Ravenous' eyes widened as a reddish glow emerged around him followed by a hail of scorching hot embers as if a newly lit fire was released from within himself. He was about to confront Xzaien about her sorcery when the spirit of Nihilus took form establishing itself within the confines of a mask all his own.

As quickly as he arrived he was cast back out letting out a deafening scream as he fought against the sorceress. Ravenous having been empowered by this ritual was also affected as he collapsed to the floor his thoughts clouded and unclear due to the nature of the ability. Ironic, Nihilus embodied the very nature of death and yet he was being defeated. And by a two-Bit witch no less. He would endure no longer, with Nihilus outside of the mask the opportunity presented itself, with a quaking hand Ravenous grabbed hold of his crossguard saber its power beckoning him to utilize it. The indigo blade shot out from the hilt its instability causing the blade to crackle and shoot out embers.

"YOU LIVED AND NOW YOU DIE!"

In two quick strikes, the mask was destroyed the purple marks left on it up for debate as to who caused the damage.

The Void was gone.

He was dead, At least he was dead inside Ravenous. Ancient powers never truly die. He was shaken but enlightened, grateful even. His attention was fixated on Xzaien her showcase proving how weak he was compared to herself.

"Haha. hahaha! HAHA! HAHAHAHAHAHAHA! Oh god you are strong, aren't you?" His voice became less whimsical. "Maybe you are destined for domination. Or maybe you will just get struck down like every other visionary who ever lived.

Chkhoz Pikeyy ​

 

[Ava Cartwright-Pryce]

Ava Cartwright lifted off her pilot helmet and smoothed over her golden locks that were braided back with the tail tucked up underneath the mound of hair at the back of her head, then she slipped her hands out of the black gauntlet gloves and stuffed them inside the helmet for safe-keeping. With the transparisteel canopy already open on the black and orange T-90, the long-legged blonde exited the X-wing's cockpit and descended the service ladder with well-practiced ease before heavy boots landed softy on the durasteel decking of the hangar bay.

The Wing Commander hadn't been to the Corellian Shipyards in a while and they were ever-expanding it seemed, impressive even for the fledgling confederation that was having growing pains. Goldilocks had been as of recent helping to instruct new prospective starfighter pilots at the military academy in the Seberhing system. With the push to have a more centralized government and military outside of Corellia, it was imperative with war drums sounding all around them to get the next generation of military prowess ready for the evitable battles ahead if they were to hold the Core and have some semblance of peace in the region for the people. If only, then we could perhaps have a real-life together...

A series of beeps brought Ava out of her wishful thoughts. She looked up at her astromech droid still in his socket behind the cockpit and flashed Squeak a mock miffed look; all a part of their affectionate game with each other. "I most certainly am not thinking about that... You need to get your processor out of the gutter, mister, or you might just blow a gasket under that dome head of yours," Goldie quipped back, then she reached into the storage compartment on the nose of the fuselage and grabbed her flight jacket from the hold; slipping it on over her rebel orange flight suit before walking away from the snubfighter and her blue, silver, and white R-9 unit.

Steel-blue orbs scanned the expansive hangar bay until they found the target she was looking for and laid her course in for an intercept. And yes the commander was late for the meeting, but it would be worth it, hopefully. Striding with a purpose, Ava quickly came up behind Admiral Dracken Pryce and the Incom representative just in time to overhear what the Corellian had said.

"I concur, Admiral, though at this early juncture in the selection process we should keep an open mind, hmm?" she nodded smartly. He would know it was hard for her being an X-wing enthusiast to even think about flying anything else, but the Ralltiiri would if need be for the better good... well, maybe.

Dracken Pryce

 

[Xzaien]

Xzaien's glow had died down a bit more as one last tendril expanded from the shattered mask. It, making contact with Xzaien's hands and subsequently being pulled straight out of the mask. Whatever Ravenous and Xzaien had done. Completely rendered Nihlius's spirit harmless, and in stasis. The Mask lay there upon the table, cut in two with purple cracks appearing on both. Of course, Xzaien both enchanted the Mask with Sith Magic, and as well created a prison for Nihlius's spirit inside of it. But, Xzaien returned to normal. To greet a now maskless Ravenous who stood triumphant over the shattered bits of the mask. She spoke.

"I would not say powerful, only skilled. I seek not domination, only unification of the powers that be into a more effective system. Perhaps I will die, but I will not die stationary and let my people suffer a Dark-Age such as the thousand years of Republic Peace."

A short and sweet two sentences was all that exited Xzaien's mouth as she sat back down. Awaiting a response from either Chkhoz or Ravenous. The moment she sat down, the bubble that had surrounded them dissipated into the air.

Ravenous Chkhoz Pikeyy

 

[Ravenous]

Ravenous still panting from his endeavor with Nihilus raised an open hand and ran it down the side of his neck his eyes widening at the apparent lack of dying flesh. For months since he acquired Nihilus a day was shortened from the man's life an "Eye for an Eye" If you will. A gaping hole in the depths of Ravenous had been filed as flashbacks of his previous life returned in an instant.

A single tear rolled down his cheek.

Ravenous thought those memories were long dead, lost to the terrible power of Darth Nihilus but with this revelation, Ravenous realized that his being wasn't destroyed rather it was suppressed, and the oppressor had been overthrown. The man collapsed into his seat as a flush of emotions previously locked away came back to him. Rage, Sorrow, Joy, ambition and even a small flicker of love.


Nyla Sawn...

Ravenous rose from his seat his tear now wiped away. Surprisingly enough the still dazed Dark Jedi turned to Chkhoz Pikeyy a deadly serious gaze aimed at him.

"Being among the most powerful people in the galaxy doesn't make you any less human. I've seen people gain the ability to harm and let it go to their head and I don't intend to let it happen again. The capacity to harm doesn't make you inherently evil. But you MUST master the power you have been given because being harmless doesn't make you inherently good it just makes you prey."

An orange glow flickered inside Ravenous' pupils.

With Nihilus out of his body Ravenous regained full control of his Force presence, His corrupted power had been fixed.

He swiftly spun towards Xzaien

"You haven't felt or seen me at full strength yet Xzaien. What you have wrought upon the galaxy will be a formidable power of death and destruction. I hope you can come to terms with that."

Ravenous turned towards the endless corridors of restaurants that surrounded the group. He tapped on the shoulder of the "middleman" and asked him for a plate of steak and eggs considering it was still early dawn, around 07:00 by his calculation.

 

[Dracken Pryce]

A familiar voice chided in beside him and he felt his heart leap. Without even thinking he turned to her, embracing her and gave her a kiss. PDA wasn't...Disallowed by the military but it was clear the brass had started thinking about splitting them up as much as possible. At least it felt like it when they gave Ava new orders. The Incom Rep looked shocked and flinched at the sudden movement and backed away slowly. He had forgotten she was returning today! Though with the way things were with the Confederation, or whatever it was turning into, it was a toss up if either of them would even be able to spend more than a single night together.

"I....I'll give you two a minute."

Pryce smiled sheepishly and nodded apologetically.
Ava Cartwright-Pryce

 

[Chkhoz Pikeyy]

"I...see. Is this what people like you ponder? Good and Evil relative to Strong and Weak. I suppose once you have seen countless hearts across the galaxy you can try and make sense of it all. With that...what did you two just do? I have never seen magic like that before and I cannot understand what is happening. I feel like I am peering into a different realm, like a dream."

A waiter of some sort set his course for the table with the noodles Chkhoz had ordered, and handed them to the middleman upon arrival. He trembled slightly as he meandered towards the table, the strange and powerful display from mopments prior still fresh in his mind. The middleman took it accordingly, and studied the plate with a stone face. He then pulled out a small scanning device to check it's composition for any malicious discrepancies. The noodles were almost always cheap, and thus, didn't take much time or effort to prepare. Still, the food looked savory enough to the eager Verpine. It was to be the first meal of his new life; the life where he could finally reach his prime, his dreams, and his desires.

He looked down at the hot plate like a haughty predator eyeing its prey; an act he had seen many youths all over the galaxy tended to do in more comically inclined expressions.

With a fork, he shoveled a small bite of noodles into his mouthparts. They were great, and they definitely tasted a lot better than the moss he was used too. Whether or not this food was good for him was left to be decided, but for the time being, the foreign cuisine didn't seem to bother his body too much. Like he thought, it would take him some time to work away at the plateful, but perhaps that was the best way to enjoy such a dish.

"I will stay with you two until I am finished--thank you for the paying the bill by the way, friend. If either of you have anything you would like to say before I depart make sure to let it out."

His focus returned back to his new food, he was beginning to thoroughly enjoy this edible expedition into the unknown.

| Ravenous | Xzaien |​

 

[Xzaien]

Xzaien looked at Ravenous. She smiled at him. However, there was something slightly unsettling about it after Ravenous mentioned that we'd unleashed a great danger across the Galaxy. She only nodded before speaking.

"It is not I who unleashed it. It is your choice on whether or not this evil is you, or Nihlius."

She waved a hand at one of her Space Marines who promptly leant down and gathered up the Mask fragments to put them into a Bronzium case. Before standing and handing the case over to Xzaien. She nodded at this Space Marine before looking back at Ravenous.

"Consider this, a favor dear friend."

Her eyes flicked over to Chkhoz, she'd finally address him.

"Remember the co-ordinates on that coin leads to further co-operation between us. I leave it to you when you would like to follow."

She'd stand up before dusting herself off with one free hand. She'd look briefly down at the Bronzium case before turning and waving a hand in the air.

"Farewell, Dear friends."

She'd turn and finally leave. Leaving both of them to their fate.

/exit thread.

Chkhoz Pikeyy Ravenous

 

[Chkhoz Pikeyy]

Chkhoz sat idly by, continuing to enjoy his noodles as Xzaien's armored entourage suddenly mobilized, leaving the two men alone with each other. Ravenous's meal had arrived, and the well dressed man who served as dietary inspector for Chkhoz remained for a few moments longer to check the man's food, did so, and departed without a word.

As the bug gnawed the noodles soundly and awkwardly, he pulled the now empty chair closer to him and set his new bag and it's contents atop it. He promptly finished his mouthful, and took his new weapon out to inspect it further.

He had never seen one before, but he knew of them. The lightsaber. The weightless feel to the blade was said to be the hardest part in mastering the graceful weapon. It was his first weapon too; he had been scavenging scrap and junk piles across many planets in order to construct a basic blaster all this time, but now... now he held a weapon capable of the destruction of nearly any material. He had been worried about being robbed of his valuables in the past, but he knew how much these sabers were feared and revered across the galaxy. They were the mark of powerful warriors of light and dark, the tool that allowed these warriors to do whatever they set out to do. Still, with all that, he only looked more powerful now.

His field of vision focused on his acquaintance from across the table.

"This thing is pretty cool. Have you got any tips on wielding it before I get into the action?"

| Ravenous |​

 

[Ravenous]

Ravenous watched as Xzaien walked away from the table taking her armed marines with her. Some might say that nothing was accomplished by this meeting but in actuality, Ravenous' entire existence had been altered by this coming of fates. Nihilus was gone and he was still reeling from the sudden revelation that a part of himself had returned. His breakfast had arrived, the steaming hot plate bringing a rare grin to the Dark Jedi's face. He began to cut his steak and was preparing to take a bite when Chkhoz Pikeyy asked for tips on the principles of lightsaber combat.

A flush of memories from his early years came flooding in as a memory of a younger Ravenous stood atop a slain rancor its corpse bloodied and mangled almost beyond recognition. A female dathomirian emerged from the shadows of what appeared to be an arena of sorts yet there were no crowds or people in general.

"Marvelous! Simply exquisite handy work Akabane! At this rate, you might very well surpass Naga Sadow himself!"

A younger Ravenous jumped from atop the rancor into his master's embrace her warmth and kindness comforting the young Sith.

"OH! My lord! You are bloodied and tattered! Come now let's get you cleaned up!"

Ravenous returned to the real world his memories recounting how he used the force to shred the rancor with rocks. As he thought more about how he managed that his thought process came to the conclusion about what to tell someone of the Verpine's special case.

"When it comes to Lightsaber combat there are 7 forms from which to choose. Shi-Cho the most basic, Makashi the most tactical, Soresu the most defensive, Ataru the most offensive, Djem So the form specializing in counters, Niman the most balanced and Vapaad or Juyo the most advanced. Now for a beginner like you, I would advise starting with the basics of Shi-Cho. But keep in mind all these forms were made by people who found them to be best suited for THEIR combat needs if you plan on winning any duels you will have to find your own way to fight." Take me for example. My speed outmatches most of my opponents so I created a style based solely around speed and mental aptitude."

The dark Jedi returned to his steak and eggs awaiting the Verpine's response.