The Call

[TB-705]

Dreams of savanna grass warmed by the sun scattered with the sound of clattering rocks.

Eyelids flickered open, revealing yellow orbs slitted with black. Ears flattened back, then swiveled up.

Ri'Shajirr sniffed the air and caught the whiff of Pureblood. His lips curled.

"Heavy feet are for prey, Nwit Wo," he rumbled loud enough for his voice to reverberate through the ruins. "I could hunt you in the dark."

@Varukt

 

[Zakir Thaun]

A faint exhale of relief escaped the weary Zabrak as the sound of the lightsaber blade retracted to the hilt, easing his newly-practiced Form I battlestance just as he thought he got a full grip of it. He relieved the vibroblade from it's horizontal angle and made sure to refresh himself as [member="Darth Pyrrhus"] concluded the practice and headed for the balcony. He had anticipated tough training, and it was just the beginning of it. He was glad to learn, nevertheless, and did not let his motives die down for his mere effort in training. He had not sensed a summoning yet, he was too eager and untrained to fully meditate and feel on the Force to this degree yet, but he stood tightly to his daily meditations and progressively studied. He was enthusiastic to prove his capabilities, and at last truly initiate his apprenticeship. He anticipated of himself to promote his skills and satisfy the expectations of a Sith acolyte, and refused to set his goals aside.

He had then tailed his way after the Dark Lord in the balcony, to be met with the inquiry. He hadn't felt something too irregular at the time, but as soon as he stepped out to the balcony to witness the outside chilling through his bones, a mere startle sipped, igniting the sensation. "Yes, I do." Was it a call? A summoning? It was far too vague for him to define, but there was something to look forward to.

 

[Kratacos]

There was a creature below the pillar he had landed on.

That is, the creature was the large and probably furry [member="Thengil Ri'Shajirr"]. Under normal circumstances, the Pureblood would've been afraid. Normal circumstances being: Had he not been Sith, had he not had fear purged from his system by the time he could walk, and had he not survived all the ventures the members of his House had set before him - all them resulting in him never being truly accepted into the Graush household and given a name.

What did take him aback however, was that the large cat-like humanoid spoke Sith.

He slipped off the edge of the pillar, allowing his cloak to billow and flap around him until he hit the ground softer than one might imagine for someone of his size, however large one might consider him.

'How do you speak Sith?' Vraukt said, or at least, thats what it would've come out as if he had actually been speaking Basic. Instead, the actual sounds that came out were, "Kait dary j'us byloti Tsis?" Hoarse, and guttural all at the same time. His mouth formed the words perfectly. This was his language, and although he was anything but aggressive, some part of him, deep down, took offense at something other than a Pureblood speaking their language.

Oh how the Galaxy off of Tantorus had evolved.

 

[TB-705]

Amber eyes tracked the Pureblood as he dropped to the ground. The Cathar leaned against the pillar in the sort of false leisure that lulled the senses and belied muscles ready to tense tight as an adder's coils.

Thengil's ears flicked beneath the red one's hostile gaze.

"It is a language. I learned," replied Ri'Shajirr in Basic.

[member="Vraukt"]

 

[Kratacos]

Now that he could actually see the creature, Vraukt could tell that he was larger than him in bulk and in height. If it were true that he could hunt him in the dark, then he imagined he would be doing one of two things, maybe even both, and those were likely sniffing or listening to his steps, and or breathing in the darkness.

At least he'd be smelling the soap he used.

Vraukt tilted his head. He bore no hatred for the being before him. How could he? He didn't even know him, let alone the name of his species. Its appearance was surprising, yet, he had seen much in his slightly more than two decades of living in service to House Graush that he wasn't phased in the slightest.

"You were a collared beast, once."

Translated to: Slave.

[member="Thengil Ri'Shajirr"]

 

[TB-705]

Thengil's brows lowered.

"No. But I was caged."

Ten years a prisoner of the cursed Republic dogs.

[member="Vraukt"]

 

[Darth Pyrrhus]

Pyrrhus nodded while in deep thought. Someone would be sent. Probably. Would they come alone or at the head of an army? Would they come to talk or to kill? One did not exclude the other, of course. He had no idea what would come out of the meeting. But all this would be discovered in time. He would discover more about this order, something he thought would be easier to accomplish through conversation rather than interpreting and mulling over propaganda broadcasts. For all he knew it could be a trap. But he was prepared. If it came to that, how long would his apprentice last? So early in his training his chances were not ideal. Ultimately it was up to Zakir to keep himself alive or prove unworthy to become Sith, but should it come to battle Pyrrhus would do his part to draw as much of their focus as possible.

"This is unexpected." Pyrrhus put his thoughts to words, mostly for Zakir's benefit. "A new Sith order appears. Or rather, an old one returns. Now there are two. Unless they find immediate common ground they will likely become rivals." He was of course hinting at the tension he anticipated between the already known and established Sith order and this one which emerged from the shadows at the head of an armada. "Which will be in the best position to enforce the will of the Sith and the Dark Side upon the Galaxy?" though he asked the question he did not expect an answer. It was too soon to say, too soon to know, even for him. "Or will this divide be our undoing?". His optimism had been on the rise lately, but its ascent had been halted. There had been much talk but little action thus far.

Darth Pyrrhus returned from the balcony and into the main hall where they had practiced before. It was long with a tall roof, shaped much like a throne room might be. The slight elevation of the floor at the opposite side from the entrance was probably where the throne would have been. Within it there was only Darth Pyrrhus and Zakir. The Epirus Guard, which Zakir had been made familiar with was nowhere to be seen. They weren't waiting to spring a trap, Pyrrhus simply had opted for privacy. Before whatever envoy was sent arrived, Pyrrhus would do his part to ensure that the mind of his apprentice was clear and on edge.

Similar to when they first had met, although more aggressive than that time, he launched an attack upon Zakir's mind. There was no subtlety, no cloak and daggers. The dark tendrils of the Togruta's mind was coming for him, and the Zabrak would be painfully made aware of that fact. Protect your mind. Pyrrhus' loud voice thundered inside of his apprentice's mind. Your thoughts are not your own.' the Mentalist's mind reached for Zakir, mental tendrils like water flowing quickly over Zakir and searching for cracks and openings to pour in, infect and spread its disease from the inside. 'Unless you erect walls around the city of your mind, your thoughts will be like cattle; they can be freely stolen, shepherded into new directions or simply set ablaze' Pyrrhus wasn't looking to do any permanent damage per say. He was simply breaking and entering with a loud presence that might feel very similar to a hard-pressing migraine. Zakir would learn to excel under pressure, for his enemies would be far less lenient than Pyrrhus was in this present moment. And the less information this envoy they were expected could rip from Zakir, the better off they would be.

| [member="Yidhra"] | [member="Zakir Thaun"] |​

 

[Yidhra]

Yidhra, for her part, was enshrouded by a company of proud-backed troops of the Empire. The steps to the Citadel were covered by a thin glaze of treacherous ice, just waiting for a sprained ankle or a broken neck.

Even the nature on Ziost was evil.

The Pureblood could appreciate it, with that sort of detached, cold affection that came with her analytical mind. So long as they could harness the power of the Dark side that permeated every puff of air and sliver of ice on this planet, of course. Otherwise it was just an all-encompassing, ever-whispering ethereal goop of dead Sith with nothing better to do but annoy you while you’re trying to work.

At any rate, she was getting ahead of herself. First she had a mysterious Sith to divest of his mask, as well as his motives to dissect. For all she knew, this could be a trap. It could be a bloody battle. It could be conversation and then a bloody battle.

Or, maybe, this would be a rare example of a reasonable Sith Lord, whose tastes ran closer to tea and crumpets than fresh corpses. Could be she was in luck this time.

Their synchronized steps reverberated off of ancient murals and domed ceilings as they ascended the crumbling stairs. The overcast sky had grudgingly allowed a few blue streams of light to filter down through a massive hole in the roof. The mosaic on the floor of the grand hall lit up in a circle of bright colors, depicting some war or the other, doubtless fought aeons ago.

Beyond the accounts of Sith history and the throne’s empty podium, a balcony. Highlighted against the milky clouds outside stood two silhouettes, both horned with different patterns. Yidhra’s presence and perception spread out, butter thin and silent, as she teetered at the top of the staircase, motionless.

She could see him clearly now, the older Sith. He radiated composure, a yoke of discipline upon the shoulders of raw power. The thinner figure at his side was much quieter, slippery like an eel in shallow water.

Yidhra straightened her back and moved into the hall within her protective formation. Every step was a careful calculation of risk and odds, every thought weighed and evaluated.

“I, Yidhra Dottash, greet you in the name of the Resurgent Empire. What might I call you, Lord?”



[member="Darth Pyrrhus"] | [member="Zakir Thaun"]

 

[Zakir Thaun]

[member="Darth Pyrrhus"] | [member="Yidhra"]

Zakir was well aware of a scenario-to-come. Soon, atleast. It wasn't too often for an Empire to widely announce it's establishment but act belatedly, so he concluded. It could very likely mean a conflict, two orders to perhaps promote the same ideologies, but in a different courses and ways? It was very vague, and only time could define their uncertainty. While it wasn't crucial for him, as it was only the beginning of his way, it sure would prove critical for his future if such conflict erupts. He would have to fight things greater of his current strength, but he was far from abandoning and avoiding battle, it was his new nature. The battle he expected might also come to actualization very soon, and his training to be demonstrated in live action.

He remained to stand, motionless, his hands tucked behind his back as his Master spun around from the balcony. He attempted to re-asses the odd sensation previously striking him, yet merely failing to find a source, nor a clearer intention. Slight hints of possible danger tipped to his concern before he turned to steer his heels around, ascending the balcony to the practice hall. His expression featured confidence in disregard to the small concern of his. He was able to stand stronger if he happened to combat an equal opponent, so he convinced himself. In a regard of a mightier foe? He could do no more than stand his ground and do his best, truly. He wasn't in the position to hide tricks and gadgets in his sleeves in case he was overwhelmed. Not only that he had not enough resources to craft these, but at the start of his way he was judging by direct strength, and hadn't even tested himself in true battle.

"Errh.." That very sensation which had outmatched him previously at their first encounter again stroke his mind, stronger and more dominant than he experienced before. It was paining, and ignited the fuse of his defense. He folded forward, holding into his head at this unexpected invasion. It was to assure his mind was locked to inferior reach, to hide his mind if someone intended to dig dipper. The speech of the Dark Lord was made loud in his head, he had to install the blockade to his thoughts. The mind of an individual is a most valuable asset, and it was indeed correct to shield it from exterior forces. His head was aching, and the shield he began attempting to raise was essential for his future encounters. In pain, he calmed his startle, holding into the wall right behind him to redirect his focus to the Force. He let an exhale escape before locking his eyes, drawing as much effort as he could to link his attention with his mind. The external presence of his Master uncovered in his deep focus, and he began sealing his exposed and most vulnerable thoughts. He imagined it like sculpting a wall with clay which is the Force, leaving it to solidify and firm within few minutes. An essential, yet low-tier blockade was finally installed, capable of preventing theft to his most simplistic thoughts and feelings.

He sighed in relief, reassuring his consciousness back to the physical world. He relieved back to a firm stance, just to notice the immediate presence of Yidhra across the hall. "Hrhm.." He quickly sharpened his eyes and firmed his back, bothering to slowly approach the Vibroblade resting at the wall to his right, his steps echoed softly and indicated no intentions of violent actions. Regardless, he did not dare stray his gaze from the newcomers across the hall, cutting himself short on words of introduction and greeting before his Master was to act.

 

[Kratacos]

A caged beast.

And so came to a place such as this?

Vraukt didn't speak a lot. He didn't think a lot either. The Massassi subspecies were a loyal group that followed their commands obediently. Vraukt was no Massassi, but he had been conditioned to perform the same function. Without a Leader, whatever form it came in, he would be idle; useless even. There was more or less a shred of ambition within him, and only rarely did it ever show.

There was a grunt in understanding of the Cathar's words.

"Answered the call?" To join a United Sith Empire, that is.

Or did he live on the planet? Who knew, he could've come to assassinate those who had caged him. A thick eyebrow stalk rose.

Perhaps he was made to jump through rings of fire as well.

[member="Thengil Ri'Shajirr"]

 

[TB-705]

"I answer to none," growled Thengil, a glint of capriciousness in those dangerous eyes. "I come as Tuk'ata drawn to peculiar scent."

His nose quivered.

Did he smell prey, or fellow hunter?

"I shall yet stay and see what comes."

The revelation of the hidden fleet peaked interest. Would that these proved less fleeting than the last.

[member="Vraukt"]

 

[Darth Pyrrhus]

Pyrrhus could feel Zakir fighting back and trying to push back his advance. The Togruta did not persist in his assault. He simply wanted to make sure he wasn't sleeping with the surprise attack. Once he was alert and made putting up mental barriers a priority, Pyrrhus would allow himself to be driven back. It served as a double lesson. Zakir would learn to not ever allow himself to feel complacent or comfortable. Such could create openings for ambushes and surprise attacks. Now if anyone tried to peer open his mind he would be ready. And if someone sought to overpower him, with the defences in place, Pyrrhus assumed the energy required to do so would be something he'd be able to pick up on. Satisfied that the presently weak link of the duo was prepared, Pyrrhus turned his focus to the approaching entourage.

At the head of the envoy was another Sith Pureblood. It appeared to be a theme with this 'Resurgent Empire', as they fashioned themselves. Pyrrhus harboured the species no ill will, nor did he hold them in an especially high esteem. He valued merit over birth. There was much one could read merely from the eyes, and if there was one word he would use to describe hers it would be awake. Aware, intelligent, and not lulled into any kind of false sense of pride or security. It was precisely the kind of person he wanted to deal with in this instance. He assumed then that this ambassador was not sent in some kind of dismissive insult, but rather to be regarded as someone capable of speaking for their empire.

"Greetings, Yidhra Dottash." Courtesies had to be observed, after all. Or well, they didn't, but she seemed well-mannered enough to warrant it. "I am Darth Pyrrhus." there were no other titles, no additional fluff to make him seem more relevant or important than he was. All he needed to say was 'Darth', and it painted enough of a picture of who he claimed to be. It was up to the overly brave or foolish to challenge that at their own peril. "And this" with an outstretched arm he gestured towards Zakir. "Is my apprentice." Pyrrhus took a moment to observe her companions. He and his apprentice were outnumbered without a doubt, yet the Togruta stood there stoic and unafraid all the same.

"Your emperor has made a bold claim. Now it remains to be seen if you have what it takes to follow through. We have much to speak about, Lady Dottash." Emperor, prince or general, the man he had seen stand at the head of their army could be any of the above. By making the false assumption he would see it confirmed or corrected, and if the latter was the case he could read into the reaction of Yidhra to determine their relationship. If he was lucky.

| [member="Yidhra"] | [member="Zakir Thaun"] |​

 

[Kratacos]

Vraukt grunted in response.

"Strength," he said in answer to [member="Thengil Ri'Shajirr"]. Strength was what he would come face to face with, Vraukt said. Or at least, thought. The one word he spoke carried plenty of meaning behind it, and he had been learning to place the necessary amount of force and emphasis into a word, as well as timing to make it clear as to what he said.

He didn't speak a lot.

And he spoke even less in Basic.

 

[Yidhra]

[member="Darth Pyrrhus"] | [member="Zakir Thaun"]

Tea and crumpets then. Grand.

A smile spilled across her face like oil from a tanker. “That we do, Darth Pyrrhus. That we do.”

She raised her hand – a minute gesture, and her guard obeyed, lowering their weapons. “A show of good grace then, Darth, and to your apprentice.” She nodded to the zabrak, then focused her yellow gaze upon his master once again.

“What doubts do you have of our strength? Let me dispel them, so that you may join us in greatness where you belong. The galaxy grows complacent and fat in its delusion of peace. There was never a better moment for Sith to rise and take their rightful place.” Her tendrils twitched, curling with delight.

Cold spread through her demeanor, a kind that had nothing to do with the hostile weather of Ziost. Her grin froze on her face, her amber gaze as piercing as it was keen.

“Above.”

In the ice-locked silence that held the ancient Citadel in its grasp, her whisper might as well have been a triumphant cry. There was a reverence to the echoes of the word, a chorus of voices rising up with each reverberation.

It was as if all the warriors and priests that had once walked these halls were joining in, generation after generation, Empire after Empire.

Yidhra took a precarious step forward, eyes too bright, smile too wide.
“Will you heed our call, Sith?”

 

[Darth Pyrrhus]

He returned the nod as everyone in the room took on a posture far less hostile. For now at least, they remained cordial. There was nothing to say that either party would change that should the negotiations leave them deeply unsatisfied. Never knew, Sith were unpredictable. Their code had an almost surprising amount of interpretations. Until you knew the Sith it was a tricky thing to know for certain what would set them off.

"On that, Lady [member="Yidhra"], we can agree." Pyrrhus resisted the urge to repeat the line 'Peace is a lie'. Although they both would undoubtedly agree that it most certainly was. "Complacency is no existence for Sith to exist within." arguably it disqualified them from being Sith, although that was a heated debate for another time. "Hunger. There must be hunger." the Togruta let it rest at that before he lured himself out into a thinking-out-loud type rant. But even if he and Yidhra turned out to be on the same page and could realise this without speaking it out loud, whatever he said would also be for [member="Zakir Thaun"]'s benefit. He was new to their ways.

The question was could they act on that hunger? Could they sustain themselves and keep going forwards? Every breath Pyrrhus took was to forward the Sith agenda. If this new Sith empire aligned with his vision for the galaxy, then why not help push them forwards. It was an easy thing to take a step back should they fall. But as she pointed out with the one word... Above, above there was a grand fleet. Would it be grand enough?

"Perhaps" he replied, although his tone made it more optimistic than the word alone implied. He was certainly both curious and interested. But as a master of illusions himself, there were few arguments stronger than tangible results, and this was but the beginning. There were many definitions of Sith running about. Most he would declare as heresy. He knew nothing of these people. Though that being said, the vibe he was getting from Yidhra was vaguely... Familiar. It showed great promise. It felt focused. Her scent through the Force smelled distinctly like that of a Sith. His type of Sith. "I will see what your empire is made of. Show me it can take root. Show me you can accomplish all the things you set out to do" It was less of a demand, as it was what they would be doing anyway. But it was a way of suggesting that he saw merit in their promise, in their vision. And if that proved true he might see himself become more than a simple ally.

OOC Note: Gonna be gone on a trip until the 11th, so won't be able to post again until Tuesday!