Faction Putting Together a Crew

[Darth Malum of House Marr]

He had it. It had taken careful studying of the documents he had uncovered from Korriban, alongside cross-referencing with the library in the Palace of Silver Rain, but he had it. He had been certain before that the Holocron of the great Darth Marr was near Dromund Kaas, not a surprise as it was the capital of the Old Sith Empire, where the glorious Darth Marr had led the defense of the Empire, but he could not just make an attempt for the system blind... as he had admittedly done at Korriban, instead, he had done his research, decoded sections of the document he had not fully understood, made further understanding through the resources kept at the Temple proper. Now, he was much more certain, the Holocron was kept at one of Dromund Kaas' moons, one or both likely held a Sith ruin, there it would be that the grand Darth Marr made home his final teachings towards his descendants.

The thought that those ruins may have been already pillaged by the perfidious Light zealots of the Ashlan Crusade had filtered through his mind, as he ran across the Temple, most undignified, but finding his query was all the more important. Yet, he was confident that the august Darth Marr had placed some sort of protection around the site of such a large import. However, even in hopeful, perhaps desperate, wishful thinking, Malum was sure time was of the essence, in this immediate moment it was possible that the zealots of the Light were making an attempt to uncover what was held in the guarded Sith ruins, or even worse, he felt a still in his heart, perhaps those fanatics would rather seek to destroy such treasure troves than allow anyone access.

He had to move immediately!

Yet, though he would not admit it to anyone but himself, and even to himself it would come kicking and screaming, a trepidation filled him with the prospect of going out alone into space again. Deep into enemy territory where he would neither have friends nor allies. Thus, as he reached the doorway, his blackened cloak settling behind him, he had a solution to this dilemma.

He was still not sure how to feel regarding Trayze, one getting over the shock of their relation, however distant it was. He had yet to even inform his family of this, though that was a matter he would correct at the nearest opportunity. But as for the man himself, he was amiable enough, if a bit rough around the edges, Malum could not exactly blame him for that, not everyone was raised in such high class as he, perhaps someday he could adjust him from his country bumpkin ways. Yet for now, those very same ways provided a distinct advantage, Trayze had told him little about his background, promising that with more time spent that more and more would reveal themselves, but something most important was his career in law enforcement. Malum personally thought he was quite young to achieve such a role but was willing to believe that of course, the line of Darth Marr, with the sensitivity with the Force to match could make up for any disadvantages of age, clearly, his family had made a mistake when casting out Trayze's grandfather. Regardless, of that, the advantages that Trayze could bring to the expedition were distinct and important, first, of course, muscle, he was experienced enough with a lightsaber, and three blades were better than two, to have someone to watch his flank... well it filled Malum with more confidence than he had thought possible. Secondly, there were his investigative skills, Malum had no delusion that once reaching the Sith ruins that there would be some sort of test, some sort of trial, to bid them be worthy of the power and knowledge of Darth Marr. Malum was his heir, he had no doubt, but if two heirs were to arrive? Both passionate, skilled, and capable? How could they fail?

And it was with that thought that Malum emerged through the common area, filled with Tyro and Acolytes, the rare Scion and Apprentice as well, all gathered in their own groups doing... well Malum was not entirely sure what they were doing. Some of them were studying most likely, others preparing for combat, perhaps some others to make a trip to Desolous, yet Malum had never been much of a people's person, never had much of an opportunity surrounded primarily by family who were both paranoid and grasping. He knew in his role as the heir to the House of Marr that he should attempt to make contact with others... yet some excuse always pervaded through that desire. He was not friendless per se... he had Trayze's after all... or did that count as family still?

Speaking of Trayze, it seemed that he was scrunched over some book, by its outline Malum could see it was regarding intermediate Force theory, the Heir of Marr reminded himself that unlike him, and most in the Palace of Silver Rain his friend... his cousin...? Did not have the same almost instinctual calling to the Force that they had established at a young age, instead for Trayze it had been far more unconscious, thus lots of remedial revision it seemed.

It was a pity that Malum needed to interrupt him.

"Officer Tesar, it would seem that a crime has been committed," Malum's mind idly wondered if he had gotten any better at this teasing business, "We need to go to Dromund Kaas immediately, pack, we'll take the Lachrin and go, I know where Darth Marr's Holocron is!" He had attempted to keep the excitement from his voice, but even he realised that by the end he was more resisting the urge to shout it across the room.

Trayze Tesar Quintessa Zambrano

(Open to any Sith really)

 

[Trayze Tesar]

Trayze looked forward to a delightfully boring afternoon, a denouement between the ordeals of classes and a trip to his abode back in the Town of Desolous. No longer the fish out of water Neophyte, Trayze Tesar, Detective and Blood of Darth Marr, was an Acolyte. Which meant he had a personal abode near Little Firefist, a little slice of home away from home well earned. Said abode was painfully spartan, emphasis on was, but as he had earned, wheeled, and dealed both with the student body, the faculty, and the Nagai inhabitants his abode kept its simplicity, but it was crowded with a few plants, his communication array of which he kept in touch with home, a closet containing some gym accessories to work from home, and the numerous-numerous holobooks that his cousin practically dumped in his lap.

This was one of the starkest differences between the two, Trayze was street smarts, casual in approach but with an everyman charisma that blunted blows from bullies and weaned secrets and abilities from peers. While his cousin-which he would never forget the look on Malum's face when he found out-was far more bookish and energetic towards learning, he was, what his grandpa would politely term, a "specialized idjit". That is to say, Malum excelled in history and the ancient arcana of the Sith, flowery prose and theory, Trayze was a practical man.

Which was why Malum realized that despite the Kiffar's extroversion, his Force potential was like a mollusk-viper. Coiled, covetous, and while blessing Trayze with the ability to weave and endure, his physical and practical applications of the Force being top notch, he too suffered in being a "specialized idjit". Tutaminis was strong, yes, but when you're taking on a bunch of blokes who actually knew how to swing a lightsaber or hurl lightning at you, you're only confirming their smugness and wasting your breath.

However, he had an ace up his sleeve, his innate psychometry. This was a goldmine as he moved his senses, his bond to the Dark Side from within himself and gradually more outward. Where Malum's capacity drank deep the fear and gorged himself on the rage of others, Trayze acted more as a circuit. Passing both his Tyro and Acolyte trials while blindfolded and wearing noise-canceling earphones, he relied upon the emotions of both himself and others. Rather than seeing what was, his senses sharpened to what is; each bead of sweat, each tensing muscle, and when his lightsaber skill finally sharpened, he focused on outlasting his opponents rather than overpowering them. An immovable juggernaut, a puma simply waiting for its prey to run itself ragged-or right into his hands.

Trayze Tesar looked forward for answers, while Malum took comfort in the pride of history - which lead him to this moment, perusing a well worn copy of Foresight or Fallacy?: A Discerning Darth's Guide to Precognition. Knowledge is power, after all, and through power one gains victory.

He was not looking forward to his reading being interrupted. They may be family, but Malum still had a one track mind and often dragged him hither and yon, delving the most ancient of secrets to honor Darth Marr, their shared ancestor. Which was what was indubitably happening right now, as he weathered good naturedly the teasing that came from Malum-he had been getting better, he was so proud!

Yet there was a ghost of a scowl that graced the otherwise genial lips of Trayze. While he meticulously stuffed his book in his bag, donned his stetson, and escorted Malum out into the hall. He had waited and half listened to his fellow Acolyte prattle on and on about something or another as the two words rolled around his mind as he brooded in silence. Dromund Kaas. That was in Ashlan territory. Jedi who had shed their veil of pretension and zealously crusaded for conformity and collectivism, denying the individual and forcing themselves into the Force. He paused, then turned, his eyes glowing burgundy under the light of the Palace's halls and asked a handful of questions prefaced by a hollow joke. "Before we cause a crime, or a scene in yer case." he warned tensely. "You found Darth Marr's Holocron? Yer sure of it? Where? In What condition?" The tone was interrogative, devoid of the naive and braggadocious desire to prove oneself that was evident in so many of the Acolytes' minds.

Darth Malum of House Marr Quintessa Zambrano

 

[Darth Malum of House Marr]

Trayze looked forward to a delightfully boring afternoon, a denouement between the ordeals of classes and a trip to his abode back in the Town of Desolous. No longer the fish out of water Neophyte, Trayze Tesar, Detective and Blood of Darth Marr, was an Acolyte. Which meant he had a personal abode near Little Firefist, a little slice of home away from home well earned. Said abode was painfully spartan, emphasis on was, but as he had earned, wheeled, and dealed both with the student body, the faculty, and the Nagai inhabitants his abode kept its simplicity, but it was crowded with a few plants, his communication array of which he kept in touch with home, a closet containing some gym accessories to work from home, and the numerous-numerous holobooks that his cousin practically dumped in his lap.

This was one of the starkest differences between the two, Trayze was street smarts, casual in approach but with an everyman charisma that blunted blows from bullies and weaned secrets and abilities from peers. While his cousin-which he would never forget the look on Malum's face when he found out-was far more bookish and energetic towards learning, he was, what his grandpa would politely term, a "specialized idjit". That is to say, Malum excelled in history and the ancient arcana of the Sith, flowery prose and theory, Trayze was a practical man.

Which was why Malum realized that despite the Kiffar's extroversion, his Force potential was like a mollusk-viper. Coiled, covetous, and while blessing Trayze with the ability to weave and endure, his physical and practical applications of the Force being top notch, he too suffered in being a "specialized idjit". Tutaminis was strong, yes, but when you're taking on a bunch of blokes who actually knew how to swing a lightsaber or hurl lightning at you, you're only confirming their smugness and wasting your breath.

However, he had an ace up his sleeve, his innate psychometry. This was a goldmine as he moved his senses, his bond to the Dark Side from within himself and gradually more outward. Where Malum's capacity drank deep the fear and gorged himself on the rage of others, Trayze acted more as a circuit. Passing both his Tyro and Acolyte trials while blindfolded and wearing noise-canceling earphones, he relied upon the emotions of both himself and others. Rather than seeing what was, his senses sharpened to what is; each bead of sweat, each tensing muscle, and when his lightsaber skill finally sharpened, he focused on outlasting his opponents rather than overpowering them. An immovable juggernaut, a puma simply waiting for its prey to run itself ragged-or right into his hands.

Trayze Tesar looked forward for answers, while Malum took comfort in the pride of history - which lead him to this moment, perusing a well worn copy of Foresight or Fallacy?: A Discerning Darth's Guide to Precognition. Knowledge is power, after all, and through power one gains victory.

He was not looking forward to his reading being interrupted. They may be family, but Malum still had a one track mind and often dragged him hither and yon, delving the most ancient of secrets to honor Darth Marr, their shared ancestor. Which was what was indubitably happening right now, as he weathered good naturedly the teasing that came from Malum-he had been getting better, he was so proud!

Yet there was a ghost of a scowl that graced the otherwise genial lips of Trayze. While he meticulously stuffed his book in his bag, donned his stetson, and escorted Malum out into the hall. He had waited and half listened to his fellow Acolyte prattle on and on about something or another as the two words rolled around his mind as he brooded in silence. Dromund Kaas. That was in Ashlan territory. Jedi who had shed their veil of pretension and zealously crusaded for conformity and collectivism, denying the individual and forcing themselves into the Force. He paused, then turned, his eyes glowing burgundy under the light of the Palace's halls and asked a handful of questions prefaced by a hollow joke. "Before we cause a crime, or a scene in yer case." he warned tensely. "You found Darth Marr's Holocron? Yer sure of it? Where? In What condition?" The tone was interrogative, devoid of the naive and braggadocious desire to prove oneself that was evident in so many of the Acolytes' minds.

Darth Malum of House Marr Quintessa Zambrano

"Oh trust me, for what we have to do, it will most certainly be a crime... from the perspective of the fools of the Light anyway," He flashed a confident smirk, with confidence that very much did not exist, as both he and Trayze walked along some hallway, to likely one of the many private rooms the Palace had. He had seen Korriban. Seen its destruction, for such a holy site, was desecrated, burnt, and destroyed by fools who did not understand, not appreciate its majesty. Their kind was an undisciplined, unorganised lot, yet their zealotry, their faith in their ideals... it worried him. What need they for legions of experienced and trained men, when they could throw zealots disciplined only in faith into the fray? Well, this worry, this... fear, was part of why he had come to Trayze in the first place, together, two scions of Marr, they could overcome.

"You remember the documents I uncovered on Korriban, yes? Well, they gave me the indication that the Holocron was somewhere near Dromund Kaas, it made sense, did it not? The capital of the Old Sith Empire, the place where the great Darth Marr had defended the Empire again and again," Malum spoke, too excited to notice the unease that had come onto the Trayze's features, "But trust, I did not get so excited based on pure indication alone, I knew you would have been annoyed at that!" And Trayze had been, before, which was quite unfair, here he was, showing him, no, educating him, of the great past they both shared, and he had the gall to be annoyed, well seems family never changed even if it was rediscovered, new family! Speaking off, it had taken him a time to come to understand fully, the manner of speech that Trayze employed, it was rustic, much like him, and he would admit that he quite liked it, in a place where so many spoke so formally, including him, it was refreshing to have this... common speak. But Malum was resolved that he had to teach Trayze how to speak more formally, they were in the Palace now, at any point some Sith Knight or Master may appear, and they had to be afforded the foremost respect. For some reason, he was not entirely confident if Trayze could achieve that.

"I did further reading on the documents, and was required to translate some of it which took time, the Library was able to aid in much of that, and was even able to cross-examine it with other ancient Sith texts, and thus was able to find out more. The Holocron is on one of Dromund Kaas' two moons, it shall become evident which one when we arrive. A Sith temple was built on it, one that would house many a personal possession of the Sith Council," Oh how he wish he could have seen it, at its glory, all those relics and possessions of the greatest of Sith of the old age. Oh, what he would give, "You have likely caught on, the great Darth Marr's Holocron was one of the possessions left there, he likely wished to move it at some point, yet... we all know his fate, his battle with the Sith Emperor," Malum was visibly troubled, he had heard the story again and again, yet still, would feel loss, to be betrayed by your liege so, how horrid.

"I believe the Temple to have likely been looted clean by now, indeed, most likely destroyed, by those Ashlan Zealots!" Malum's face shifted in a growl, "Yet, the documents mention that the grand Darth Marr had left some unknown protection over his possessions, those protections must still exist, yet there is no guarantee they will forever, it will only take one curious Light fool to investigate the ruins and we might lose the Holocron forever, stop dawdling, Trayze, we need to leave now." He was bursting with energy, he would deny the implication that he was acting like a child, there was no matter more important than this, without the Holocron... how would they prove what they knew perfectly? That they were the scions of Marr, they had to find this Holocron, before any other took it for their own use... before any other attempted to destroy something with such precious value and knowledge, anything could be within the Holocron, information that could bring the Sith to a new age... a chance to see truly, his forefather.

Trayze Tesar

 

[Sicarius Hekate]

Sicarius was in the library studying. She sighed while trying to decipher some ancient texts. Normally Sicarius liked studying but the type of studying she enjoyed was a specimen on her lab table spasming while she tried to measure their pain threshold then determining if it was significantly different from other species and trying to apply that to Sith Mutant experiments. Now that was a good time studying. Fascinating and entertaining in equal measure. This however while it could be fascinating was certainly not entertaining.

Currently she was reading ancient Sith Texts trying to identify any references to the Sith Monster Leviathan's. So far it seemed there were two ways Sicarius could attain one. Find one or Make one. Sicarius hadn't found anything on how to actually create the beasts although she was hopeful that someday she could. As of right now however her best bet might be that she could find one. According to the texts they could slumber for millennia and when awoken were a terrible force annihilating everything in their path.

It was frustrating that despite these resources and archive of knowledge that some aspects of Sith Lore were still so obscure. There had been so many different factions of Sith over the years, Sicarius wouldn't be surprised to find that another Sith Lord had created or used a Leviathan in recent years, but the galaxy was so chaotic that Sicarius hadn't heard of it.

Still it was refreshing to have such a harbour of Sith Knowledge again. Sicarius and her Master Darth Angonous had endured trials and tribulations while on the run and in hiding when the last Sith Empire had fallen, it was something of a relief that there was once more a significant Sith power and presence. Her Master had allowed Sicarius to come here to study as much as to develop contacts and networking as any hope of actually learning something new.

Sicarius sighed leaned back and stretched from the desk she was studying. She decided she could use a break. Perhaps she could go down and see the Neophytes training there suffering could be amusing if one can be bothered to look at them flail about. They were like trash holocron tv, mildly amusing and distracting when you had nothing better to do.

As Sicarius yawned and left her study materials behind she stretched her force senses along with her muscles. Basic mental exercises were just as important as physical exercises. Sicarius ruefully had to admit her Master's insistence to teach her patience had been successful. Sometimes… Partially.

As Sicarius stretched her Force Sense. She found herself analysing the people her Sense washed over

A Neophyte being trained to harness his pain.

"Master! Please Stop!"

He needs to stop crying and get angry.

A training duel in progress.

"Predictable Form! Use the Unorthodox!"

Too aggressive he's being lured into a trap

"You remember the documents I uncovered on Korriban, yes? Well, they gave me the indication that the Holocron was somewhere near Dromund Kaas, it made sense, did it not? The capital of the Old Sith Empire, the place where the great Darth Marr had defended the Empire again and again,"

Sicarius perked up at that bit of Listening. Korriban, Holocron, Dromun Kaas. That was potentially an interesting conversation to follow. Sicarius had a fascination with Sith Holocrons, and she had an academic interest in Dromund Kass. According to Legend there were some fascinating Sith Mutants and Sith Artifacts in the hidden depths. Sicarius cloaked herself in Force Concealment as she followed the pair eavesdropping on their conversation.

Darth Marr Sicarius intrigue perked up even more.

Although a powerful Sith Lord in his own right. Sicarius was equally impressed with his political acumen. He had all but ruled the Sith for decades while other Sith Lords on the Sith Council had fallen around him. Now that was a Sith Lord worth learning from. If it was a true Sith Holocron his essence would be imbued within it. Sicarius could learn and utilise much from such a device.

Sicarius tried to approach getting the Holocron objectively. She could always kill these two and go get the Holocron herself. Which while could be fun probably wasn't practical. Even if they weren't in a Sith Neutral zone, violation of which was sure to have a strong response, not too mention her own Masters rath. Sicarius didn't know enough yet to find the Holocron herself. All she knew was it might be on one of Dromund Kaas's Moons at a Temple. Hardly a promising basis for such a quest. Besides Sicarius had been on a couple of Sith Tomb expeditions and having comrades always helped. There was usually a string of traps and obstacles.

Besides her Master had sent her here to make friends, contacts, allies. Sicarius wasn't powerful enough to rule… yet. She would need allies. These two were a little on the young and inexperienced side. Particularly if they were talking about such a prize openly at a Sith Academy, but they had identified the probable location of a Sith Holocron which showed potential.

"You know if you're going to go after such a prize" Sicarius commented wryly as she stepped out of the Force Concealment spell, making it appear she had come out of shadows "It would be wise not to talk of it so openly at a Sith Academy."

"You're quite literally talking about something most Sith would kill for" Sicarius scolded "Myself included"

Sicarius let the threat hang in the air for a moment. Truthfully she probably couldn't take both of them on without the element of surprise she had just given up. But they didn't need to know that.

"However" Sicarius relented "You show some talent to have identified a Sith Holocron of a Sith as esteemed as Darth Marr was. It would be a waste to discard such potential."

"I would enjoy being on such an adventure after such a prize." Sicarius proposed "I have experience in such tombs. I believe I would be an asset."

"Unless of course you want me to prowl the halls shouting to everyone that a Sith Holocron is up for grabs like the two of you have all but been doing."


Darth Malum of House Marr Trayze Tesar

 

[Trayze Tesar]

"A fifty-fifty chance," Trayze began, his voice hissed like a Krayt dragon's growl. "In the middle of Ashlan Territory, assuming it even remained-"

His tirade was interrupted by a new partaker, and the Kiffar cursed himself for not shielding himself or this conversation. While his sight had improved in the Force, it was by no means an exclusive power-or that there weren't those who also knew of the Sight or means to counteract it.

She was a Zabrak, and by Trayze's acumen was wafted in the putrid incense-like "stench" indicating her aptitude of Alchemy...as well as her experience in general. She heard them, and sought them out, and there wasn't such a thing as a free meal in the Sith Order - even among innocent nepotists like Malum.

The Zabrak did not identify herself, and his eyes and very being sharpened like a pairing dagger to feint against a potential spy, and when she spoke of killing, the edge sharpened as Trayze's aura briefly coiled around himself, ready to make use of the hold-out slugthrower he kept on hand.

The tenseness did not abate when she "volunteered" her services and made mention of alleged expertise in the matter. He briefly considered the means to kill her quietly, but not here. Not now. Too open, and too many variables.

Well and truly trapped, and before Malum would drag a gift dewback by the tail, Trayze asked the Zabrak two questions, "Who are ye, who sent ye?" Escorting naive and well meaning civvies, cunning femme fatales with unknown connections...it was as if he never left the service at all...

Darth Malum of House Marr Sicarius Hekate

 

[Darth Malum of House Marr]

Malum barely hid the smile as he turned to face the intruder, though he was sure any perceptive individual would have seen it. He had tried, honestly, to be more sociable, but the presence of Trayze had been too good of a crutch it seemed. Rather than being forced to branch out and interact with others by the power of loneliness, he had been able to use Trayze, every moment where he had to spend with another, would be with Trayze, with any manner of excuse used, be it delivering him books, be it training together, be it any social activity.

Yet, Malum was no fool, though he would have proceeded on this quest with Trayze, or even by himself if Trayze proved unwilling, he did not wish for that outcome. So what was a man to do who was so shy? Well, why not exclaim to the entire academy what his quest was? Those too weak would scurry away, those worthy and strong would be perfect meatshields as he went about his business. Was it crass? Of course. Would he do anything necessary to achieve his goal? Of course.

Now the Zabrak brought an interesting point, that there would be some strong enough that rather than introducing themselves to join his quest, would rather kill him and try to take the Holocron for themselves. Now that was a valid point, one he had considered. However, he had found a rather easy solution to the conundrum as well.

He would simply kill them first.

Seeing that the Zabrak in front of him was no threat at the present moment, indeed she seemed younger than him, his crimson eyes turned lazily back to Trayze's.

"A fifty-fifty chance, even if that were accurate is closer than I have ever come before. Yes, it is in Ashlan space, problematic as that may be, it is the situation we find ourselves in, we cannot change that, only plan around it. If it has been destr-" Malum's excitement had long since dissipated now he visibly shivered at the thought, "Well that bares no thought, we must proceed as if it is there, but every day we delay is another day it could escape our grasp."

Now his eyes could turn back to the much more tantalising and attractive figure. Without shame, his eyes traced down from her legs, upwards until they rested lazily against her yellow. Where Trayze was tense, he was relaxed, he knew the moment that a potential attack would come, it would end with her electrocuted against the wall. It was not the most gentlemanly gesture, but he wished to make it clear, he felt no fear from the figure in front, though both the concealing feat and the tell-tale smell of alchemy were intriguing prospects of inquiry, perhaps he might learn something from her.

"Greetings, my lady, and thank you for your wise counsel," Had he been among those of higher birth and class, there would have been more etiquette involved in such a greeting, but alas, he has far from home, far from those days, "However, perhaps it should be an indication of my goal, or perhaps of my confidence, that I need not fear those who may threaten me, be they idle or not."

She wished to join them, that was enough for him to accept her if she made a play for the Holocron herself... well then, he would have to deal with her, but that was simple enough. Still, he would rather she not force him to kill another acolyte, such was beneath him, so some information would have to be gained, both out of politeness and to secure the blasters pointed at each other's heads. He would have to chide Trayze later for how he was going about it, but in principle it was sound.

"I have no opposition to you joining our quest, and I thank you for the praise of my talents, however, as my cousin so eloquently asked, it would not be right to proceed without each other's identities. I am Malum, of House Marr, apprentice to Darth Ophidia ," He let the name hang in the air for a moment, his crimson eyes shining brilliantly, in he would some amusement. He had not told Trayze about what had happened on Fiviune as of yet, doubtless, he would need to answer some questions, "And this is my cousin, Officer Trayze Tesar, details, details, of House Marr," He made a mental note to remember his badge number, slight teasing between them as it was, Trayze was rightfully proud to have made it into law enforcement, Malum would not disparage the accomplishment, "May we have your name, my lady?"

Sicarius Hekate Trayze Tesar

 

[Sicarius Hekate]

Sicarius narrowed her eyes as she assessed the two in front of her one seemed to be in service to the other. Sicarius almost dismissed him as a servant, yet Sicarius sensed some potential in the Force as he assessed her. It would be unwise to turn her back on him she decided. He smelled like the type who wouldn't hesitate to stab her in the back if she did.

The other seemed to be barely attempting to hide his mirth. Sicarius prickled at the insult. She was used to it from some people mostly Men who tended to treat her with contempt. Mostly it reminded her of her enslavement to a slimelord Hutt. That arrogance.

He compounded the insult when he ignored her all together. Sicarius almost decided she would have to educate him not to underestimate her. To show him how unwise it was to turn his back on her. The anger surged within her before she halted it. Patience. As her Master was constantly badgering her. If he underestimated him than she could use that too her own advantage, let him think himself above her until the time was right to either show him, use him or kill him. Depending on which was most beneficial to her own ends of course.

Sicarius felt his eyes traverse her figure.

Men Sicarius thought with her own only barely concealed smirk Even when life and death hung in the battle they only ever think of one thing.

Sicarius raised her eyebrow as he finally deemed to address her directly.

"Only a fool looks for enemies when they could be allies." Sicarius retorted and acknowledged at the same time.

"Well met Darth Malum of House Marr ." Sicarius would have to remember to look up House Mar on her holopad later. No doubt like all noble houses they claimed some sort of illustrious history, whether or not they had any current relevance was what was in doubt.

"Officer Trayze Tesar " Sicarius gave a polite node.

"I am Sicarius Hekate. Sith Apprentice to Darth Angonous "

 

[Trayze Tesar]

General Angonous eh? came the first thought that crossed his mind. And Malum being apprenticed to Lady Ophidia herself? My my my there are opportunities abound. But still, no such thing as a free Bantha, no matter how pretty she may dress herself up as.

"Good day Miz Hekate." the Kiffar drawled in his more bumpkin brough "Though would you be attendin' on behalf of the good General Angonous, or yer own charity?"

Politics, a dread and dangerous game that many Sith seemed obsessed in saturating with blood, sexual fluids, and generally noxiousness of self-interest. He was biased, having been raised as a non-Force user, reared by three generations exiled and spurned to poverty, courtesy of the "Illustrious and Ancient House of Marr". While the sting of indignity was not as fresh to Trayze as it was his grandfather Zerrick, he still echoed and was privy to the hushed exasperations of the "unwashed masses" that the Sith lorded over.

For the briefest moments, he thought he sensed a similar sort of spite-a desire to spurn and stick it to those far too arrogant for their station, but shook off the feeling. Blood was in the water, and this potential she-shark wanted most of the prey available.

Darth Malum of House Marr Sicarius Hekate

 

[Darth Malum of House Marr]

Darth Angonous huh? He could not he was personally familiar with the man, though admittedly... he was not personally familiar with most people. He did recall the name though, vaguely, a high-ranking Kainite if memory served, one that served directly under Darth Carnifex-Demiurge, a dangerous man... even if "Angonous" meaning "Agony", was a bit... much.

Yet who was he to talk? His family had called him Malum after all.

He cracked a smile, as he fully relaxed, the message was sent, there was no point to continue on with forged demeanours, and as she had said, only a fool would look for an enemy when they could be allies, and he was not one to surround himself with fools. He would admit, nodding along with Trayze, curiosity was piqued on if the venerable Darth Angonous would join them. It was one thing to recruit an apprentice for the quest, quite another to recruit a master.

...Though if the apprentice was as gun-ho and forward about pointing out they could steal the Holocron, it would likely only worsen in the presence of such a strong ally. He would have liked to say he was disappointed in such conniving and backstabbing behaviour from his allies, yet had not that always been the way of the Sith? He would have to be prepared to betray them equally so... would have to be prepared to betray Tra-.

That thought did not warrant imagining.

"Truly a pleasure to make your acquaintance, Lady Hekate," He resisted the drilled-in instincts to take her hand and kiss them, not everyone was as used to those traditions he had rather embarrassingly found out, "I would be pleased to have you on the quest, but as you likely no doubt heard, time is of the essence, if my companion here," He nodded over to refer to Trayze, "Has no further complaints, we can make our way to the Lochris, my starfighter, and begin the journey to Dromund Kaas."

It was a pity, he thought, idly glancing at his peers, that none else had the courage to approach them, that this expedition would only be of three, perhaps four, still, perhaps that would make them speedier, perhaps need to worry about splitting the reward less, perhaps lead to less interruption and arguments. Still, the disappointment did not wash away, was this the future of the Sith Order?

His eyes wandered back to the two before him, awaiting their words.

Sicarius Hekate Trayze Tesar

 

[Omon Kaa / Darth Diem]

Ysalamiri outside of Myrkr? ..read the title of a rather short holoscroll, pressed on to one of the library tables. Around it, Omon's arms laid motionless, his thumb only part moving, scrolling through the text. Beside him, on a small pile, stood several holorecordings. Some were connected to the engineering, some to the galactic warfare. A usual mix of things he would like to bury his mind in.
The library itself was a grand thing, a specious, high ceiling room, divided with walls and open entrances in too several smaller rooms. Each hosting its own groups of texts and records, along with its own type of audience occupying the tables.
Outside of his ship, this library could be the most relaxing place Omon liked to be in. So much knowledge and new information, ready to be taken in, without any cost, but time. Time, which in his mind, cant be better spend in any other way on this planet.

If the Force wont yield to us in productive manner, knowledge and information are the only remaining factors we could exploit.

He thought dreadfully, as his thumb reached the end of the holoscroll.. on where to find the rare and elusive Ysalamiri lizards. Which was apparently nowhere. He chucked the item to the side, with that same thumb he used to study it, and just as he was about to take a new scroll.. the shift in the Force hit his body.
It was not an attack, nor even a bad intent. But to Omon's extreme Force Sensitivity, it was more then enough to know, someone was reaching. And that definitely peak his interest.

His cowled head rise upward, just enough so his eyes can scan the part of the library he was in. Fiery irises moved fast from side to side, across the few individuals who were there. Non of them was the cause of the shift, and it would seem non of them even noticed it. Which didn't surprise him much.
He pressed the small button on the table, to let the droid know it can come and collect the data back to its place. As Omon calmly stood up from the table, his upper Inquisitor garb falling down to his thighs, and placed his hands behind the back, slowly starting to walk toward the next library part.

No.. No.. his gaze jumped from person to person, while walking between the tables.

As he walked beside one of the library exits in to the hallway, hairs on his forearm lifted up. He stopped in the spot, and just turned to the right, again slowly continuing the walk.
But as soon as he arrived to the corner of the exit, he could sense several different force signatures, and one of them was definitely one who's reach touched him.
Moving his arms from the back on to his chest.. he calmly leaned on to the wall, closed his eyes, suppressed his force flowout while expressing the flowin, and just listened.
Omon wasn't proficient in many things.. but reading Force in people and nature, in that he was on the master level. That introversion did come in handy for something, after all.

They are quite adventures spirits. One of the males has already decided he will do this, no matter what. Omon spoke to himself, while the trio had their own conversation. Sadly, Omon was best with talking to himself, or the crew of his ship. He did not do well socializing.

But their distrust in eachother is emitting from them like Thunian wart-hornet wing slap. His head slowly turned to the left, as thou looking toward them. The name exchange and unity over few facts, did calm their flow a bit.

Marr.. I know that name well. So descendants of the great Lord Vitiat's fist, alive and well. And going to Dromund Kass. Dare I refuse this sign? Only thing giving him pause, were the names of masters that he heard. But..

Pushing himself off the wall, and returning his arms from the chest again behind his back, Omon stepped out from behind the wall, and slowly walked straight to the trio.
He gazed in front of himself, not looking either one of them in to their eyes. His posture calm, face without any expression. Sadly, he was not adapt in the arts of consorting and chatting.

I did not find you with intent to eavesdrop. Of that I give you my word. His head tilted a bit to the side.. But I did hear all that was said.
I am Omon Kaa, apprentice to no one aside from my departed parents, and my social skills are not best, I'm afraid. he said with honest voice. Then finally turned his head and looked each of them in to their eyes. Nodding in an greeting gesture.

And I do believe you are correct, this would be a crime. But only if caught. His lips curved slightly, as thou he said funniest thing ever.
I was born on Korriban, yet I never saw it. I would love to see something, of our late glory, such as the great thumbs of Dark Lords. But in all honesty, ANYTHING would be better, then just sitting here and slowly dying from my monotone routine. His expression changed back to that emotionless shroud. Then his eyes narrowed a bit, observing each of them for just a second..

You two are of Marr.. greatest of your bloodline dedicated his life to protection of the Sith. Let me join you, so I can lend some small help in protection of at least 3 Sith.
No matter what our individual natures are, we belong to something which is rare, and whose numbers are too few these days.

He nodded at them again, smiling politely at the female whose name was Sicarius, if he heard it right, then moving few steps in front of them. Giving them space to decide if they wanna take him. As he did read somewhere 'One should give people space to make a decision'.

 

[Trayze Tesar]

Trayze was about to concur, and begin to depart to the Locrhis starfighter that Malum had, when he had sensed...something. Something sorrowful, like a mewling nexu-kit's paw, but no less dangerous. Like a woeful wisp around the edge of his mind he senced it, one whose Sight was as good-if not naturally better-than his. Yet even he recognized the same sort of inadequacies, the inexperience, like a flexing muscle not tempered with regimens. He himself was the painful subject of such amateurish behaviour many times before, and he had still so much to learn.

Another had entered the fray, and another had been incensed by the call to adventure, to break from the norm and-was that a karking Sithblood?

He was, as he lived and breathed, though the tumult of sight and sense swamped around the newcomer like a dour cloud. This too was a spring, but rather than one that needed to be coaxed out, like Trayze's, this wellspring of potential needed to be kept in check, lest it burn out its user. Almost instinctively the Kiffar's aura mirrored the Sithblood's, retreating to a comfortable distance, and hastily sharing and rescinding eye contact whenever they looked up at their metaphorical holopads whilst drinking metaphorical caff like metaphorical socially awkward sods.

Anthropomorphizing his aura aside, the man had listened to the Sithblood. One's an anomaly, two's a coincidence, and three's a pattern - the old adage of his former profession as a detective came first to mind. With so many opportunities coming to plain view, how could he not reach out and sieze it?

"Afraid we're not goin' ta' Korriban." The Kiffar admitted. "However, Ah don't think Malum'll need much convincin' ta' take a detour-after we attain our first objective." It was a friendly sort of banter, and with the four of them, he hoped that most rough edges would be smoothed out by the time they reached the Old Sith Space. They needed to, for they were truly going into the belly of the beast.

"Grab yer kit, and let's meet up in...say an hour or so? Tha' way we can grab our munitions, nutritions, an' toothbrushes." Trayze beamed with confidence, even if it was a farce. With so many in this Academy whose parents were dissapointed, dead, or both, somebody had to act as the big brother to all these postpubescents with powers. And with the Sithblood he felt kindredness. Not in the way he felt with Malum, their relation was mostly by blood, tempered by experience, but with this newcomer it seemed to be the inverse. One who somewhat understood-or was going through something similar-as he was.

"Omon was it? Or d'ya prefer "Mister Kaa"?" The Kiffar began. "M'name's Trayze Tesar, former detective, current chaperone ta' our illustrious leader and head archaeologist fer this excursion." he cuffed Malum on the shoulder, and in spite of whatever oddities or disagreements they may have, Trayze was happy to call Malum his friend. "Ah have a feelin' that the two of us are gonna get 'long swimmingly." He gave a confident nod with the typical "bumpkin bravado" that his lordly cousin would tease about, and extended a hand to the newcomer. This one...this one he would watch and nurture with great interest. Hopefully Malum wouldn't get too jealous-or that his suspicions on Angonus' apprentice would prove themselves correct.

Darth Malum of House Marr Sicarius Hekate Omon Kaa / Darth Diem

 

[Darth Angonous]

Being a Sith Lord looking after young and eager apprentices was quite the challenge. They hold a lot of ambition, but they are reckless and not very subtle about it. When Sicarius Hekate informed Angonous about a crew being formed, it piqued his interest. A bunch of apprentices ready to assault Ashalan Space. Angonous heard about them, a bunch of light siders fanatically devoted to Ashla a being of pure light. To Angonous, they were even more rigid than the Jedi. At least he can respect a Jedi who possessed a more.... open view of the Galaxy, these Crusaders were close minded and blind to the chains that bound them.

The Sith Lord headed for the meeting place seeing his apprentice already conversing with the other Sith. They all needed a Sith Lord to help with this mission. As much as Angonous felt tempted to march in and lead these overconfident whelps, he was curious to see what their plan was. Will they be like Sicarius and rush in without any thought? Or will this attack be one worthy of a Sith Lord? Angonous took a deep breath and stood over the men and women remaining silent. Admittedly, he wanted to face an Ashlan in battle and test their mettle he had a feeling it'll a good fight.

Darth Malum of House Marr , Omon Kaa / Darth Diem , Trayze Tesar

 

[Darth Malum of House Marr]

Almost in the blink of an eye, their trio had turned into a quartet, and then a quintet. First, his eyes were drawn to the Pureblood Sith, it was somewhat shocking enough to see one of their kind, they were rare indeed these days, scattered to the wind after the fall of the Old Sith Empire, and with the current Ashlan occupation of holy Korriban, likely any on their home planet was long since exterminated. Malum considered the man softly.

It was an odd sentiment, but he felt... a desire to protect the man? He was just so... forthcoming, and honest, really it was something that he more expected out of a Jedi rather than a Sith, but the sentiments he expressed were sentiments he could readily agree to. They shared awkward social skills, they shared a desire to delve into the great Sith past, including an appreciation for the bloodline of those greats that still flowed today, and they shared an appreciation for the sanctity of their Order. Malum knew those of his Order were quick to betray, and even quicker be traitors, but they were indeed a rare sort, those who followed Bogan, they had only each other in this hostile galaxy.

No matter how much he wished to eagerly welcome the Sith Pureblood into the group, he allowed Trayze to take the lead momentarily, he would be his first mate during this quest, better let that become evident to the group. They were all roughly alike in skill, after all, thus it would be in leadership that the gap is made apparent, otherwise, they would not be a team, and more just a mob. He nodded along with what Trayze was saying to the group, Korriban could certainly be an interesting location to visit on the way back from Dromund Kaas, he had been there once after all, and if it would make Kaa more aligned with them, all the better for it. It would be good to see Korriban again regardless, and he was sure Sicarius would have no problem delving deep into its secrets as well. He nodded along again regarding equipment, he would need to quickly requisition some supplies from Desolous, he had really only planned for two, perhaps three companions, it had evidently ballooned far beyond that. Thankfully the Lochris had enough room for everyone, well, it may be a tad cramped, but at least a little privacy could be maintained, and it did have the amenities needed as well.

He held back the slight sting of jealousy that came over him at how quickly Trayze was befriending the Sith Pureblood, it was really nothing, theirs was a bond formed by blood, and he knew Trayze well, if Malum was having such a positive perception of the Sith Pureblood, it was no wonder the extroverted Trayze was having a similar reaction, indeed it would have to be more pronounced.

Malum opened his mouth to speak but closed it abruptly.

A large darkened figure walked towards them and placed himself among the group. It was the confidence only held by a Sith Lord, certainly. It seemed the questions that Trayze and Malum asked were answered, as before them, stood Darth Angonous. Now, this could be both advantage and a disadvantage, the advantage was easy to see, a Sith Lord with them on this quest? To witness this victory, and aid them to achieve it? That could do great things both for reputation, and for the means to succeed. However, the disadvantage was also easy to see, Lady Hekate's confidence must brim from somewhere, and it would not be surprising if it had come from her master. If her threats did hold substance, it would be simple enough for master and apprentice to make a move on them, he would need to keep his wits about him.

"Well then, as we are all gathered then. I shall first thank you all for your aid in fulfilling my quest. It shall be both a dangerous and daunting venture, but one which through our collective strength we will overcome. I cannot promise riches, but I can promise an endeavour, an adventure to fulfil what we all desire, be it knowledge, be it ambition, be it a good fight.”

He turned on his heels, towards the entrance and this time, the exit of the Palace of Silver Rain. He would not likely be returning, and if he did, it would be in a long while.

“As my cousin says, prepare yourselves, gather your things, when we next unite, we shall be flying away from Saijo, our destination. Dromund Kaas.”

Let it be accomplishment, let it be splendour, let it be victory.

Trayze Tesar Omon Kaa / Darth Diem Sicarius Hekate Darth Angonous