The Infernal Congress

[Darth Carnifex]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=27dfqU_NyeE​

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Othrys
The Pacanth Reach

Othrys had fallen deathly silent in the weeks after the triumph held for Supreme Leader Sieger Ren, the cheering crowds had all gone home and the war machines arrayed upon the moon's smoothed surface had been sent to the front lines to fight against the Alliance. The flotilla that had congregated in orbit had all but dissolved, only a trio of powerful star destroyers were left to safeguard the small celestial sphere. All that remained were the structures build to emphasize the prosperity of the Imperial state, their vacant eyes gazing upon the waste that served as their home. Only the men and women assigned to guard the monuments shared in their solitude, their echoing footfalls rebounding across the empty surfaces.

The great pyramid of Titanos still stood tall, a mountain looming over everything within eyeshot. The light of the nearby star reflected off of its reflective surfaces, waves of light glittering like rivers of gemstones across the permacrete and granite. Occasionally the light would be obscured as one of the defending destroyers passed overhead, bathing the thoroughfare in darkest shadow. However, unlike before the destroyer did not continue on its patrol path, but rather lingered in orbit above the moon only moving ever so slightly so that Othrys remained hidden in darkness.

The guards below were confused until a group of ships emerged from the underbelly of the destroyer and landed on the pad adjacent to the Titanos, the vessels clearly recognizable as those belonging to the royal family of Panatha. From within one of the ships emerged the Arch-King himself, his muscular body shrouded by a black cloak. Behind him was the Arch-Prince, Braxus, alongside several adjutants and lesser officials that comprised their entourage. More individuals emerged from the other ships, their bodies similarly concealed by cloak or armor, and moved to follow the King into the massive structure.

They would congregate at the pyramid's apex, a massive chamber whose walls were constructed entirely out of transparisteel that afforded the occupants a majestic view of the moon's smooth surface and the empyreal constellations of space beyond. Various thrones of black metal and red padding were assembled in the shape of a circle at the very center of the chamber, one for each of the major arrivals while those that followed them were forced to stand behind and around them. Because the Arch-King had supplied the location for this conclave he was afforded what was akin to center stage amidst the Brotherhood's circle.

"Welcome friends, allies, family. It is time we begin."​

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| [member="Darth Prazutis"] | [member="Darth Metus"] | [member="Darth Pyrrhus"] | [member="Beleth"] | ​

| [member="Valessia Brentioch"] | [member="Asharad Graush"] | [member="Ara Ren"] | [member="Oron Verd"] |​

 

[Darth Prazutis]

​Titanos, Othrys
​​Summit Room...

​In the wake of the storm that was Supreme Leader Sieger Ren the small moon known as Othrys once filled with the full might of the First Order grew quiet. The crowds that once choked the streets flooding the air with cheers had gone home or left with the armada brought by the glorious leader. War machines that once drove in the parades with First Order and House Zambrano sigils alike were sent off to the front lines to fight in the galactic war. In the wake of this glorious day an eerie silence fell over the small moon all that remained were the three Star Destroyers floating in orbit, and the cohort of guards that remained to protect the monuments and structures on the surface.

The massive pyramid of Titanos rose defiantly into the sky above all other structures on the moon standing out among the great works. This creation stood out with its sleek black reflective stone. In the light of the nearby star the entire pyramid glowed. The destroyers in orbit occasionally obstructed the star's light bathing the pyramid and the surrounding area in darkness. But this time there was an irregularity, this time a Star Destroyer stopped over the superstructure. A group of ships emerged from its hangar descending through the atmosphere and right to the Titanos. These were easily recognizable as vessels belonging to House Zambrano of Panatha.

The Arch-King Kaine Zambrano I ([member="Darth Carnifex"]) was the first to emerge from within moving with purpose over the pad. The second to emerge alongside him was none other than Arch-Prince and monarch in his own right Braxus Zambrano clad in a set of ghastly dark robes. There were many more in the entourage of these Dark Lords various adjutants and such, especially the signature Crownguard that constantly traveled with the royal family. The group moved within and did not stop until they reached the apex chamber of the Titanos.

​Already the chamber had been prepared for these guests ahead of their arrival a series of ornate thrones arranged in a circle in its center. Center stage was afforded to the Black-Iron Tyrant who sat in his own ghastly throne next to him being the Lord of Destruction himself in his own throne. Out of their adjutants a man who seemed to lean on an ornate black and silver cane stood closest to the Dark Lord for the moment, whispering to him as each new arrival came to take their seats. This man wasn't particularly tall or physically imposing as some others in their delegation, but he had a chilling presence that could make the skin crawl and a powerful gaze from his dark eyes. As Kaine began his greeting Braxus said nothing neither to him nor to the servant who seemed to step up to inform his lord, he paid close attention to the gathering.

 

[Kaalia Pavanos]

It was something Kaalia did not have to think twice about. Before her stood opportunity, a chance. Opportunities had to be taken and chances had to be seized, so without delay she had set course to Panatha in order to do so. This wasn't something she was going to let slide. Nobody was told she was heading here, it wasn't for them to know. It simply was a mechanism to keep her Sith status away from the rest of her life, something she took many precautions for.

The woman's vessel touched down onto the surface, and like everytime she landed on previously unexplored territory she looked out from the boaring ramp as it lowered with a hiss. Simple black pants and boots were accompanied with a similarly black coat, her red hair flowing free in the breeze. The sound of her booted feet meeting steel was heard repeatedly as she walked down the ramp until she stepped on solid ground, after which she looked up to admire the pyramid of Titanos, a gigantic structure that was a sight to see. Little time was wasted however as Kaalia quickly went to move once more.

At the apex of the pyramid Kaalia looked over the others that had assembled. She knew she was nobody of high importance here, it was a conclusion easily made. Many others that were present here overshadowed her and that was something she would have to accept. It did not mean she wasn't driven to reach that level or even go beyond that, but that was a lengthy process. For now, the thing to do was listen to what was to be said.

 

[Malok]

It was from within the confines of an adjacent vessel that Darth Metus emerged.

The shuttle had descended from on high, accompanying those which bore the immediate and extended kin of [member="Darth Carnifex"] to the surface. As the son - through marriage - of the infamous Tyrant, Darth Metus took his place amongst his procession. First, the shuttle bearing [member="Darth Carnifex"] himself arrived and its occupants made their way inside the extraordinary spire. Then, the ramp from Metus' ship extended and its doors gave way in tandem. With purposeful steps did Darth Metus descend upon the world, admittedly devoid of any of his "typical" attire. He did not join them as the Son of Mandalore who had spent a lifetime conflicted. He did not join them as a man slashed in beskar, yet reeking of Darkness.

No. Today, a simple robe of zeyd-cloth covered his person.

He was slashed in black from hood to toe; with the sulphur shade of his eyes being the sole source of color.

Darth Metus was not alone in his answering the call of his Father. Today, he had brought with him a pair of souls that he trusted, intimately. Brothers. The first was [member="Oron Verd"] - the Sith Lord's own flesh and blood. Since the moment they were able to walk, Metus had been able to rely upon Oron. The two were inseparable; and together, unstoppable. In truth, Darth Metus had not known any man like Oron, nor shared a bond remotely similar, until [member="Alkor Centaris"]. Alkor was a man who did not ascribe to the Sith doctrine...and when they met, he did not ascribe to the Mandalorian ways either. Yet, the Sith Lord had asked him - in folly - to place his faith in the Resol'nare and their House.

Yet now? Having seen the weakness and convoluted truths of Manda'yaim?

Darth Metus asked that Alkor put his faith in Metus alone. Put his faith in the hands of his brother - who he could trust would not lead him astray or fail him.

And so, the trio did grace the Pacanth Reach with their presence with Darth Metus taking point. Upon arrival at the apex of the spire did the Sith Lord personally greet his father and extended kinsman, [member="Darth Prazutis"]. A half-bow was granted to each, a sign of due respect, before he took his place upon one of the many thrones. Metus then motioned for his brothers to join him on either side.

[member="Darth Carnifex"] | [member="Darth Prazutis"] | [member="Oron Verd"] | [member="Alkor Centaris"] | [member="Kaalia Voldaren"]​

 

[Asharad Graush]

It was best to never trust Sith. Especially Sith Lords. Furthermore, it was best to never trust a group of Sith Lords that were coming together to decide... Well, the beginning of whatever this was. The same had occurred at Malachor V, and A'sharad had returned to the First Order - seemingly having wasted his own time out on the other side of the Galaxy. However, with the First Order already in the planning stages of a ceasefire with the Galactic Alliance, the Supreme Commander of the First Order was forced to look elsewhere. With luck, it hadn't been that far away in regards to his station on Dosuun.

The Pacanth Reach.

A region of Space that was well known for belonging to the kingdom of Arch-King Kaine Zambrano.

Also, a region of space that he had sense avoided venturing into. Even as half-epicanthix, he bore no loyalty to their rulers.

The only Zambrano he knew personally however, was [member="Darth Prazutis"], though they had not been in contact since the raid on Midvinter. They had fought together, or, at least in relative proximity to each other, but not much else. The Blackblades on then had swept the town and some of the surrounding countryside. It had been a day of death, and for a shadow force of Sith it had been difficult for the Silver Jedi to strike back at a specific target.

Would the same happen with this group?

A'sharad's boots carried him off the ramp of his ship as he headed to the meeting place - Alone. He had no acolytes or apprentices he believed were ready to publicly claim their being his apprentice, or rather, enforcer.

Some were already there, the host, [member="Darth Carnifex"], the Arch-King, [member="Darth Prazutis"], and even [member="Darth Metus"], only two he knew of, and only one he had met. The Epicant hybrid Sith Lord clambered up onto one of the stygian thrones and settled himself there. His hood shielded his features, and his black cloak matched the black power armour that he bore. Until they begun, A'sharad's sulfur eyes closed and disappeared within the eclipse of darkness that was his hood.

 

[Alkor Centaris]

Unlike Lords of the Sith who vaunted their corruption and wore it like a badge of honor, Alkor Centaris had only scars to adorn his body. He lacked the magnificence of those who sat atop blackened thrones and fancied themselves masters of the darkness. Wizened by experience with orders of dark siders and hardened by a lifetime of combat, despite his outward appearance Alkor was in familiar company.

In place of lambent eyes, Alkor had darkened cerulean that only seemed smokier as the world grew heavier. His jaw was set as he looked on at the men who gathered slowly, as though it were a funeral precession. He flanked [member="Darth Metus"] as they had discussed, and he stood just behind the ceremonial throne that the man he called brother had assumed.

Alkor found no desire to conquer in his heart as Sith oft did, nor did riches or power lure him. His desire to be stronger than any man alive drove him to the brink of darkness, and with every life he took, the enmity within him grew.

The darkness took it's toll, as it always did. His bloodlust grew, and with it, his great hatred. Isley Verd had offered him a seat at the table of his house, and for a time, that had meant among Mandalorians. Family was foreign to Alkor as a concept. He was a man bred for battle, and not coddled by strong kinship.

Strength, honor, and respect held more significance than simple bonds. When Metus, the man once known as Isley, explained himself, Alkor was willing to hear him.

Only once. Never again. This would be the only chance for the Sith to prove himself before the Jen'jidai.

Sith were creatures given to betrayal, to self-aggrandizing, but rarely to the keeping of their word.

Alkor wore dark robes that opened to reveal his chest, littered with bandages and gauze that kept wounds from contamination. Fresh blood kept a layer of those constantly wet, and the scent of iron lingered over the Dark Jedi. His right arm was entombed forever in black beskar, the power of the Crushgaunt evident in every subtle twitch of his fingers. He wore only his single lightsaber for the purpose of Metus' security, no different than the guards posted by [member="Darth Carnifex"] and [member="Darth Prazutis"] .

He kept his hood draped over his head and his eyes did not wander.

Instead, he waited.

 

[Darth Interitus]

Interitus waited as his Fury Class Interceptor touched down on the surface, excitement and nervousness swelled within him. He had never been to such gatherings before, sure he had made himself known amongst the circle of Sith Lords that were going to be present, but this was an invitation opened to all Sith were interested in the Vision that was going to be presented here today. Now Interitus had anxiously arrived here today to take part in that vision, regardless of how many there was going to be.

After the landing cycle was finished, he walked in a purposeful stride along the ramp, and what stood before him was a sight to behold. It was a massive pyramid bathed in both a beautiful and fluorescent glow. For a moment Interitus was taken back by how magnificent the structure was, that he had almost forgotten why he was here. He then pressed onward, and noticed several figures going through the door into the enclave of which Interitus followed.

His cape gently swayed as he walked through the halls, he was dressed more as a diplomat then a Sith, but that did not matter. His trappings belonged to his Mother's side of the family so weather he was seen as a Sith, or perhaps an underling it mattered not. He was here to take part in a grand vision everyone was here for. He had finally made into the chamber, he was set in awe by the transparasteel around the room, and noticed a circle like area. After a moment he deduced that it belonged to the Lords of the Sith, the more important ones that were going to be here at the meeting. For a moment he was wrought with jealousy, but that didn't matter he only needed to serve and wait till he was amongst those at the table, He was able to earn the title of Darth, but had craved more then that, his ambitions were set much higher then that, but for now he couldn't afford to be distracted by such thoughts, and so waited for what this meeting would bring.


[member="Alkor Centaris"] [member="Asharad Graush"] [member="Darth Metus"] [member="Kaalia Voldaren"] [member="Darth Prazutis"] [member="Darth Carnifex"]

 

[NightSister]

Next to the might of the Sith Lords gathering within the Titanos, the newest arrival was a slip of a girl, petite and feather-light as she moved through the pyramid. She was a slight thing in stature, easily overlooked, and where other Sith wore an aura of menace that left fear in their wake she was there one minute and gone the next. No, Aria Vale didn't invite fear at a glance - because Aria Vale didn't need to. Though she hardly radiated weakness, few could call her deadly until she gave them reason to. Her danger was quiet, the kind you could miss until it was driving a dagger through your chest.

She liked it better that way.

Waves of dark hair fell down on the layers of black that cloaked her form, and the heels of her boots clicked down marble corridors as Aria made her way through the Titanos. The pyramid was named well, she decided - its majesty was inarguable from the inside out. Very fitting. She reached the apex easily, treading quietly into the chamber.

Sharp amber gaze studied the gathering with mild interest; in an instant eyes hardened, made of steel. As obvious as hindsight made it seem that Braxus Zambrano would be among the fold she'd been unprepared for the possibility - but Aria knew control. She knew how to play nice. Breathe in, breathe out. She moved on.

It was a shade more surprising to see Kaalia there, but far from unpleasant; Aria briefly offered a smile in the other woman's direction, clearly glad to see her. The others weren't any she could put names to, but they radiated darkness something wonderful and that was as much as Aria needed to know. A group to be feared, she supposed, though for today she had no reason to. Aria was hardly a creature of arrogance - she knew perfectly well the threat each of them imposed. She simply also knew that it wasn't yet directed at her.

Aria was hardly raising problems, after all. The Sith stood demure and silent, waiting patiently.

| [member="Darth Interitus"] | [member="Darth Prazutis"] | [member="Asharad Graush"] | [member="Alkor Centaris"] | [member="Kaalia Voldaren"] | [member="Darth Carnifex"] | [member="Darth Metus"] |​

 

[Darth Rixas]

This endeavor felt like deja vu. Like a dream he'd sought to see come into fruition his entire life, it came easy to him, natural even. With formerly being a Sith Knight for the One Sith, he imagined it'd be like meeting an old friend that he'd greet with open arms; and it was. Years after abandoning the Sith Code to adhere to his Mandalorian roots and conducts, he found his recent trek back into Sith territory comforting if anything. He'd grown physically stronger, mentally wiser, emotionally colder, and spiritually darker- all things that softened his soul and made walking with demons more palatable than most. It wasn't until he and his party emerged from their freighter though did Oron realize he might've found a new home within this tribe as his crimson gaze drew to the stygian pyramid before him. As he trudged down the loading ramp and onto the pad his footfalls came to a slow halt as he overlooked the construct Titanos, mindful of [member="Darth Metus"] and [member="Alkor Centaris"] advancing without him. They knew he often gaped at such things anyway, always easily impressed with displays of character and power in almost any form.

Moving his gaze to the nearing threshold inside, Oron's gait trailed the two as they moved into building with him in a pursuant stride, his inky robes flowing in his gait as they turned corners and passed the elite guardsmen of the construct. Obsidian brows raised as he entered the meeting chambers, the presence of the Dark Side falling upon him like the unmistakable crash of a tie-fighter's viewport under water, moments before the small craft would be filled with the ocean. He reveled in it.

Although a minute revelation given his past, Oron found he could not discern why he stayed away from the trappings of the Sith for the period he did, when in fact he felt most warm when his hands were coiled with the ghastly grip of the dark side and its emblazoned embrace. There were moments where he knew he should have allowed the poisonous taint to overtake him sooner, to be squeezed and coiled by the proverbial snake that the darkness was- whether whilst being the cause of recent, unprovoked death or something worse, something long gone that he'd done under the letter of the Manda'yaim, although unbeknownst to most. His thirsts and needs grew too vast, too ostentatious to things the clans would fervently denounce. He'd been on the clock since he first donned the T-Visor but didn't have the foresight to see him return to his first love.

Oron pulled the hood from his head, as he gave a half-bow to his Father and Kin, [member="Darth Carnifex"] and [member="Darth Prazutis"] respectively, in suit of Metus' actions and moved to stand at the opposite flank of Alkor as he awaited for the evening's exchanges to begin.



| [member="Darth Interitus"] | [member="Asharad Graush"] | [member="Kaalia Voldaren"] | [member="Aria Vale"]

 

[Darth Abyss]

It was like an ice cold storm suddenly blew through the room, but only for a moment as the veil between live and death was pierced by arcane might. The act in itself was so highly unnatural that the sheer dread and unease masked the presence of the twisted abomination that traversed through the rift. From the void the metal figure of the Mindeater emerged in his full, wretched glory, an empty, rusty husk devoid of any live, shrouded in an aura of ever growing, all devouring hunger. Other than many of those that already gathered he was not a malevolent force of destruction, but one of cosmic indifference that only served the chaos in all of its aspects. An eldritch horror and part of many diluted legends created by those that failed to fathom his existence.

In the long talons of his right rested his staff, the Veilcutter. The arcane artifact mirrored t he deranged presence of its creator, a twisted piece of wood seemingly just broken of a cursed tree that had spend years under the corrupting influence of the dark side. On top was a small chain, holding a skull with dimly green glowing eyes. The end that touched the ground was a sharp metal thorn, as toxic as the teeth inside the Mindeater's mechanical jaw.

Darth Abyss was not known for his loyalty to a cause, and neither as someone that had any desire to pledge himself to an idea, an organisation or a person. Instead he was a silent watcher, an unseen evil that lurked in the darkest corners of the galaxy and only emerged from the shadows if his all seeing eye revealed the need for him to act to reach his goals. Many of the most powerful sith of his age gathering in one place certainly fulfilled that requirement.

The husk refused a seat, instead allowing his metal shell to descend to the ground with his legs crossed, mirroring the stance of little flesh bound insects when meditating. Moments later the entity was lifted from the ground, hoovering high enough to make a chair unnecessary. His unmoved mask towered above his fixed grin composed out of sharp metal teeth, a visage of eternal mockery he chose as the only face he would wear until the end of time itself. Silently the husk remained caught in the air, waiting for those that called these meeting of the truly mighty to begin with whatever plan would be proposed today.

[member="Oron Verd"][member="Aria Vale"][member="Darth Interitus"][member="Alkor Centaris"][member="Asharad Graush"][member="Darth Metus"][member="Kaalia Voldaren"][member="Darth Prazutis"][member="Darth Carnifex"]

 

[Darth Carnifex]

He watched them all arrive, one by one or in groups they came heeding the clarion call of the Sith.

There as his uncle, [member="Darth Prazutis"], his Arch-Prince and harbinger of his fury. He had served faithfully for many decades, clawing himself out of the muck of mediocrity to etch out a place in history alongside his family, and now the Dark Titan stood tall among the Sith Lords of the old and new. Then there was the oddity that was [member="Kaalia Voldaren"], a Knight of Ren who had fallen from the path of her brethren and was tempted by the true powers of the Dark Side. Carnifex welcomed her despite her past allegiance, it was the duty of the Sith to educate those who had forgotten or were ignorant to the ways of the dark and set them on the right path. Next was [member="Darth Metus"], his own beloved son-in-law who had finally seen the Mandalorians for what they were and had dedicated himself fully to the Sith Code. Carnifex still had plans for the Mandalorians with Vilaz Munin, but the direct allegiance of the Verds would serve him well.

Supreme Commander [member="Asharad Graush"] followed after, which was of no surprise to the Dark Lord. The ceasefire between the First Order and the Galactic Alliance blunted the blades of many warriors within the First Order, and their Supreme Commander was no exception. War was integral to the Sith identity, and the lack thereof would do nothing but serve to feed unrest. Behind Metus was [member="Alkor Centaris"], a man that the Dark Lord had only seen at a distance and never interacted with on any personal level, but Metus vouched for him and thus he was permitted to attend this meeting of Sith. [member="Darth Interitus"] was relatively unheard of in the Sith community, but the Zambranos had welcomed him to their gathering and tempted him with promises of power and knowledge in exchange for allegiance.

The small, petite frame of [member="Aria Vale"] might lure others into a false sense of security, but not the Dark Lord. It was an old trick, but a clever one. The façade of innocence masking the monstrous darkness that lurked behind the smile she flashed towards the former Ren Kaalia was something that Carnifex was familiar with. He would keep an eye on her, she held much promise. Another Verd arrived and Carnifex was again pleased, [member="Oron Verd"] had long since shied away from his destiny, fooling himself that the Mandalorian way of life was one to be coveted. Now it was clear that he saw the truth, and thus he was given a place among the others.

The arrival of [member="Darth Abyss"] would have frightened any lesser being, but Carnifex had seen the length and width of the Netherworld of the Force, his eyes witnessing horrors too incomprehensible to truly recollect. The theatrics were not wholly unwelcome, but the Dark Lord only regarded the newest arrival with a sideways glance and a gruff of acknowledgement. But now that many of those whom he had called had arrived, there was no better time to begin.

"Here we are again, my brethren, standing on the precipice of history. You have heard the calls just as I have, the keening wail of the Dark Side cries out to us to rectify the terrible crimes inflicted upon it. The Galactic Alliance has long overstayed its welcome, spreading its malign influence throughout the stars. The Light blinds everything it touches, upsetting the natural balance of the universe by allowing the weak to usurp the strong, but we all know the old idiom. The brighter the light the longer and greater the shadow, but what the Alliance forgets or just refuses to acknowledge is that when the last flame of light is extinguished only dark will remain, unfettered and beautiful. We Sith have tasted galactic dominance many times throughout history, and we were on the verge of total victory with the One Sith. But for whatever reason, for weakness of strength, weakness of will, or weakness of faith we failed, our Empire torn down while we languished beneath the scalding gaze of the Light as it swept over our dominion."

He paused for a moment, letting his words sink in.

"Now the First Order has picked up the torch in our fight against the Light, and while their efforts are commendable they will ultimately fail. I have been privy to their ideology, I have seen the conviction that rests within their hearts. They are strong and they are righteous, but in the end they do not have the ability to do what must be done. They shy from exalting the strong and making the weak subservient, and their Knights of Ren fall into the same trap the One Sith did with their fervent worship of the Supreme Leader, vesting all faith in a single individual. We Sith know that such ideals like that are no longer tenable, it blinds us to the path to glory. We cannot wait for the First Order to wake themselves out of their stupor, we must take destiny into our own hands as we have done time and time again before. Thus I propose a union of Sith, an iron-clad Brotherhood to carry out the dreams of our forefathers who cried out against the Jedi seven thousand years ago for we alone are capable of inheriting their bold heresy."

 

[Darth Prazutis]

​One by one they came.

​The call of his nephew [member="Darth Carnifex"] the former Sith Emperor, and one of the last surviving greats of the Old Sith Empire was too much to ignore. The man stood on top of the mountain but the Destroyer speculated that none gathered today knew the truth of the Zambrano upbringing. There was a time many decades ago that House Zambrano was nothing but ruins and whispers of a darker time on Panatha when the family had been swept from their home. Kaine grew up on the exiled estate their family relocated to on Thyferra listening to stories of the glory days when House Zambrano dominated Empires. If it weren't for his hard work the family they would probably still be on Thyferra today. [member="Kaalia Voldaren"] who went astray after her eyes had been opened by the ways of the Sith, she wasn't someone the Dark Lord knew personally. Lazerus informed him of the necessary facts of the woman and her departure. The next arrival brought forth family in [member="Darth Metus"] also known as Isley Verd.

[member="Asharad Graush"] was a colleague and fellow warrior the Destroyer had met during the Sith Orders assault on Midvinter. He was an accomplished warrior and a clever Sith Lord who managed to carve out his own fiefdom as Supreme Commander. A capable ally to observe. Prazutis wasn't familiar with [member="Alkor Centaris"] but from his advisors words he was an important man among Isley's entourage. All newcomers were observed and [member="Darth Interitus"] was no exception. The Destroyers shadow network was expansive and he made a point to have dossiers on all notable Sith, each one was given as case files to different intelligence teams. It was crucial to keep ones eyes on potential allies and rivals alike, especially when they lost their worth. But then a slim petite framed individual slid into the room one that most people would write off and ignore, she didn't look like much, but the Dark Lords cunning eye saw her for who she was.

[member="Aria Vale"].

The former one time 'apprentice' of the late Sith Master Darth Vitium his first encounter with Aria was on that fateful day on Khar Shian when he claimed everything the Kuhn Matriarch possessed including her soul. Ultimately it led into Aria's ill fated attempt on revenge some time ago when she attempted to strike him down as soon as he turned his back, big mistake. His wrath was swift and terrible to behold. In the time since something had changed in Aria, it was in the little things from her body language that spoke volumes, she would be someone to keep an eye on.

But after Aria came someone whose presence was long overdue: [member="Oron Verd"]. There was so much power for him to claim in the ways of the Sith including true immortality, the idea that Mandalorian life was the strongest path was a lie. But the last arrival was one that was surprising [member="Darth Abyss"]. A cold silent killer Abyss embodied what it meant to be a Sith Assassin entirely, especially with how mysterious and deceptive he was.

Then he spoke.

​The Black-Iron Tyrants voice boomed with authority each word crafted by the hand of the master orator within, Kaine spoke the truth to the gathered Sith. For far too long the Light desecrated the galaxy with its pathetic presence, they were allowed to linger as a dominant power for far too long. But they stood in an dangerous time with the First Order leading the fight against them, but still unwilling to do what it takes to get the job done. A pair of major so called empires of the Sith raging in the north. None were fully stable and they were too enraptured in conflict with the declining Dominion to lead an organized war against the Sith's true enemies. It was only after Kaine finished that Braxus began to speak in support of his nephew.

"Lord Carnifex is right. You all see it as well as I when you look around at the galaxy all one sees is weakness. The weakness of the light defiling the natural order by digging its roots deep. They spread like an infestation across the stars. Once the guiding hand of our great Empire swatted them down cutting out weakness before it took root but no more. In our absence we've allowed free world coalitions to sprout, abominations that should not be allowed to exist. None who stand are strong enough to do what is necessary, so we must bear this burden. We must form a Brotherhood of Sith true in its conviction to correct these wrongs. To our allies attempting to lead the fight like the First Order we must do what they lack the courage to do."

​"These bastions of light must be annihilated."

 

[Ria Misrani]

Othrys

Sarunāties watched and listened dressed in the macabre mask and hood she represented the amount of cheap talk many tended to make. It represented the corrupt who talked themselves, to death. She had come at the beckoning of her master [member="Darth Prazutis"]. Her eyes took in the surroundings both the atmosphere and the people. Many of whom she did not recognise, but soon, so soon she would get to know them. It seemed a meeting of the darkest hearts had been called. The hem of her dress flickered in the light the pattern of the fabric, edged over by the heart that rested over her waist. Skulls mounted in a pattern as she tilted her mask and head dress, she listened.

[member="Darth Carnifex"] spoke and then too so did her master. The mentions of the First Order pricked at her heart and she recalled that to better the beloved Empire that she loved so much. She would have to take up the crusade on their behalf, to do what her people could not. To do what they were so tired to do. Bold, bone lined fabrics moved with motion as she shifted her weight. Much like others in the room, Sarunāties did not take a seat. Instead, she stood and then turned her attention away from both Carnifex and Prazutis and thought on their words. What started as a quiet chuckle turned into a quiet cackle, "those poor unfortunate souls. My beloved Imperials, there is only so much their bodies can do. Only so much they can bear, and so I agree," her voice dropped down an octave it was almost a seductive tone if not for the hint of maliciousness that lined its very being. "The Galactic Alliance has been allowed to live for too long, I watched the One Sith crumple and I believe it's beyond time to repay the favor." And in the blackest of the nights all who worship the light will find nothing but a frightening realisation that all they had feared were more than real.

 

[Darth Ophidia]

It was not often Darth Ophidia showed herself in public, but when a congregation such as this did amass themselves. Ever since the dissolution of the One Sith, she had found the title claimants to fall wanting. Yet, she kept an eye on the matter of such meetings. One day, perhaps, a chain would be forged strong enough to withstand the crucible of war. There were too many titles, and all too few worthy of them.

But maybe, just maybe-

The ashen-skinned woman had slipped into the chambers along with the stragglers. Her hood was pulled up over her head, letting only her burning eyes gleam under the embroidered hem of her fitted robes. She kept her hands clasped behind her back, adding to the character of her slender figure. Her purple-painted lips were set in a permanent frown, enhanced by the chiselled lines of approaching age. Quiet did she walk, a mere shadow in a crowd, unseen, unheard, unbeknown to those who stood by her side. Well, all but one.

A shaved-headed Chiss stood at her back, head cocked to the side as she captured the surroundings with her cybernetic eye and stored them in an external databank. Each presence was equal times threat and opportunity, and it was Darth Filiae's charge to watch her Cen'ai's back. Nethil was the Pale's Shadow and she would not fail.

Ophidia's eyes lingered on the speakers, drawing in the essence of the words. It was nothing she had not heard before. No, this did not lay solely on the shoulders of the figurehead. To craft an empire, one needed structure through zealotry and warriors willing to bleed for their right to lead; willing to kill for their rigt to rule. No empire came easy.

The Rattataki Sith Lord trailed eyes, going from one to another. Some she did indeed recognise, others she did not. Old blood and new intermingled. This was a good sign.

 

[Kaalia Pavanos]

When Aria entered the chamber Kaalia was most certainly surprised to see her. It was of the good kind however and when a smile was sent her way she gave one back coupled with with a nod. From the people that had decided to come here to hear what the hosts had to say she was the only one she directly recognized aside from Carnifex himself, someone she had fought alongside with during the conflict on Skor. It was unlike he had remembered her specifically, but that mattered little. The fact she was here was enough. The woman started walking toward Aria and smiled once more as she came into earshot. "It seems there's something that makes it so we keep running into each other. It's good to see you again, though." She offered her hand to shake.

The two Zambrano family members then spoke, at which point Kaalia turned to face the middle of the chamber to watch. Although the speech was not anything she had not heard before, there was still truth to be found within it. Especially the worship of a single individual was something the woman believed created weakness, no matter who said individual was. There would always be individuality, there would always be self-servitude. Those things would eventually create cracks in the foundation on which the leadership was built. A brotherhood however, a union of the Sith under a common cause was what was necessary to bring the fight to the Jedi who had posed a threat to their existence for too long. Instead of making people follow the wish of one man, instead calling to a shared wish would create a stronger union than anything.

The other man spoke, reverberating what Darth Carnifex had said. It was a cause that Kaalia would gladly contribute to. Annihilation of the Light would bring freedom to all who stood in the Darkness, and freedom is what she sought. She turned her head to look at Aria to gauge her reaction, curious to see what she thought of the proposal. Many powerful figures, the redhead could feel their Force signatures radiate it, had gathered for this. Together they could create that brotherhood and finally let the Sith regain their foothold on the galaxy. It was a cause worth fighting for, even if one looked at the personal gain that was to be had. The young Knight remained silent however, knowing that she had yet to grasp the mantle of Sith Lady and with that a place among the other Lords and Ladies. Yet, she was growing and that day would be sooner rather than later if she had any say in the matter.

[member="Oron Verd"] | [member="Aria Vale"] | [member="Darth Interitus"] | [member="Alkor Centaris"] | [member="Asharad Graush"] | [member="Darth Metus"] | [member="Darth Abyss"] | [member="Darth Prazutis"] | [member="Darth Carnifex"] | [member="Sarunāties"] | [member="Darth Ophidia"]

 

[Malok]

In silence did Darth Metus watch.

He felt the menacing cold of [member="Darth Abyss"] as he entered their midst. He felt the comfort that came from having two siblings at one's sides. He felt the growing presence of the Dark Side within the room - as if an unseen deity were smiling down upon the congregation. Yet, above all else, the former Mandalorian felt...confidence. As his father, [member="Darth Carnifex"], took to addressing the room, Darth Metus felt as though, for once, this vision would not end the same. This would not see an ungrateful mass casting a blind ear to the toils of their betters; this would not see Metus and his House treated as they were. No. This cause would see a return to stability...to the way things were meant to be.

And so, once the Tyrant and [member="Darth Prazutis"] had said their pieces, did the Sith Lord rise.

"I lived...in service to a culture that refused to regard ancient ways as correct. I squandered decades trying and failing to get them to see that, if we are to survive as a people and as a unit, we must embrace what made our people successful eons past. They did not listen and for that reason are they diminished to this day. And so, I stand before you all, imploring the same."

"That as we hear the words of these men, we look to the ancient ways that ensured Sith dominance. That we look to their successes and stray from their pitfalls."

"I have no doubt in my mind that this vision you have, Carnifex, will see Order restored to this Galaxy. I have no doubt that the Light will suffer the consequences of growing fat off of the One Sith's collapse. I have no doubt that a united Brotherhood of Sith is the right way to proceed. But, if we are to stand together as one, we must ensure that we do not destroy ourselves in the process. By this, I mean ambition. It is the lifeblood of the Sith, it empowers us to rise above the mortal man and move mountains...but...we all saw what happened when ambition overcame a foundation of unity within the One Sith. We all witnessed as a civil conflict tore the Empire apart, leaving only a diminished nation to lose Coruscant to Alliance clutches."

"And so, I implore you - all of you - to mark my words well. We must not choke on our ambitions. But our word alone will not do...We must make a measure to ensure that we do not walk the blighted path of those destroyed by ambition. Therefore, I motion for one thing. I motion for this Brotherhood to be born, a union of Sith united by the common goal of eviscerating the Light...but with a single hand elevated to check our ambition. Not as a god. Not as one who robs us of autonomy. But as one who maintains the Vision. One who helps us Stay the Course."

"I motion for the Sith Brotherhood to begin with a Dark Lord."

He paused, taking a moment to inspect the faces of those present...until finally it came to rest upon Darth Carnifex.

"And as the author of this vision and the architect of this gathering, my nomination is clear. Your qualifications are numerous, as are your conquests. Guide as we Eclipse the Light."

[member="Kaalia Voldaren"], [member="Darth Ophidia"], [member="Aria Vale"], [member="Asharad Graush"], [member="Darth Abyss"], [member="Oron Verd"], [member="Alkor Centaris"], [member="Sarunāties"], [member="Darth Prazutis"], [member="Darth Interitus"]​

 

[Darth Empyrean]

Workers moved aside as the young man moved methodically through the entrances. In his hand he carried a dark, infernal abomination that threatened to consume nearly everyone it passed; with it a dark whisper came to the mind of each. Soft whispers of eldritch sorts, a cacophony of broken words and overlapping tones that only increased with volume the longer they sat near it. It pronounced his presence long before he was visible, and those inside the congregation would be able to feel its immense power; even hear its words long before he was ever near.

With each boot heel that clicked against the ground, The Slave moved closer and closer to his final destination. A soft and distant call he had heard from across the galaxy, something that drew him to this malignant place through the metaphysical echoes of the force; something he didn’t often heed. Today however, there was something different, a significant presence that sought his attention. Perhaps it was simply the Darkstaff manipulating him, but he knew he had to come; one way or another.

"And as the author of this vision and the architect of this gathering, my nomination is clear. Your qualifications are numerous, as are your conquests. Guide as we Eclipse the Light."

As the words finished, the doors swung open, washing the darkness near the edges with light as he entered. His footsteps remained as audible as ever, and as the Darkstaff held itself upon his shoulder, he glanced around to the various subjects before him with a cocked and curious brow.

There was a quietness about, something he assumed was probably his fault. With a quick movement, the Darkstaff disappeared in a dim purple light from his grasp, but its overbearing presence remained attached to her persona as he rested his eyes on the one man standing at the head of the congregation, a certain [member="Darth Metus"] .

“What is this?”, he said rather innocently. Hardly the words of a man who just barged into the darkest collection of sith since the old wars.

│ [member="Kaalia Voldaren"] │ [member="Darth Ophidia"] │ @Sarunāties │ [member="Darth Prazutis"] │ [member="Darth Carnifex"] │ [member="Darth Abyss"] │ [member="Oron Verd"] │ [member="Aria Vale"] │ [member="Darth Interitus"] │ [member="Alkor Centaris"] │ [member="Asharad Graush"] │

 

[Teynara Jeralyr]

Pyramid of Titanos, Othrys

The giant pyramid was both awe-inspiring and gross, a carefully subtle mix so typical of architecture devoted to the Sith: their vast ziggurats and grand temples were ever designed to inspire both wonder and fear in those who looked upon them. It is ever the same message: look at what we can accomplish but with the merest moment of our attentions. Kaine's preference for the grandiose had never been lost on the Sith. He liked to remind them all of the grandeur of older times, when the name Sith was synonymous with disciplined rule, fierce reprisal for insult, and an unwavering dedication to the Dark. A vision of an Empire we once served proudly.

Kaine had called, and Tirdarius had responded, as had many members of the Circle: it was only appropriate to gather to listen to the Warmaster. That he had chosen to do so outside of Ascendancy space had hardly been bothersome: Kaine needed to speak to the Sith, and that was often a very different proposition to simply addressing the Lords that constituted the Ascendant Circle. One is political, the other ideological. It made sense, and so he had come.

The Retribution remained in orbit now, amidst many other ships, their owners responding to the call to conclave, as was only ever appropriate. Many were vessels he had not recognised, standing on the bridge of the Star Destroyer, but that was proof enough of the pudding: Sith were responding, and that in itself was a remarkable thing. So often do we fracture to seek out our own ambitions above all other considerations. Scarcely surprising that the once-mighty Empire had collapsed into a small handful of lesser entities.

Resting now in the chair provided, stormy-grey eyes flickering this way and that to observe the other Sith Lords gathered, Tirdarius knew well enough that something was stirring beneath the surface here. Whenever others of their kind gathered, so too did the Darkness, beckoned by them, and beckoning in turn, reminding them all that the ascension of the Dark was their foremost concern, whatever their private desires. And too much of late has it been starved of the bounty it craves. Too much of the Galaxy remained absent that shadowy touch. Too much had found itself beyond the oversight of the Sith, left to squabbling beings, petty bureaucrats and militant soldiers that could not touch the Force, who did not live and breathe the Darkness. Scarcely surprising to find it restless here.

Many of the others had companions: advisors, armoured guardians flanking their seats, or standing behind them, weapons ready should violence ensue. But who would dare be so bold as to bring violence where Carnifex stands? The one who started such a brawl would die first, but many would undoubtedly follow. And to our detriment. Such beings, he suspected, were there as a show of power: Look, all, at the influence I wield! See these beings who I could command to die for me!

[member="Darth Carnifex"] spoke, and spoke well, of the need for the Sith to come together once more - in a way they had not truly done in some time. The Ascendancy had gathered many, but there were still vast numbers beyond their borders, operating on their own agendas, crafting their own private domains among worlds that carried allegiance to no flag. Many of them were in attendance now - a testament to the influence that Kaine had ever carried. And that he must use to greater purpose. Few had ever served the Darkness as well as he. [member="Darth Metus"] was correct in one respect: if ever any would carry the title of 'Dark Lord', it was he.

"Long has that seat been vacant, and often with good reason," the Sith Lord rasped, his voice carrying clear and carefully unto the others, projected ever-so-slightly, such that all would hear them. "Too many, consumed by ambition and pride have sought it, and turned the Sith to vain ends which have only permitted the Light dominance." Anger carried clear there: the ancient legacy of the Sith Empire had long been subverted by those too corrupted to see the path ahead. "Only one who truly serves the Dark and would see it spread can ever claim that place."

He sat back, reflecting upon that for a moment. So many moments when we seemed on the cusp of something better, only to be dragged down by bitter personal rivalries, or moments of dissent, when Sith fought Sith and not the Jedi. The Darkness would always consume itself, or so the Jedi believed: when they reached the height of their threat, they would always turn against one-another, seeking dominance within rather than pushing for ascendance without. Will this be any different?

And yet...there was Kaine. Who can truly say that they have stood at the forefront of Sith politics other than he? Emperor, Hand, Warmaster...what other man could claim to have held such credentials? He had served the Darkness in truth, a consistent force among the Sith, capable of such rage, such dark passions, and yet able to subvert, charm, persuade. Perhaps it's time we stopped trying to deny the obvious, and see where the chips may fall.

"That observed," he continued smoothly, pushing gently against the arms of his chair and coming to his feet, his dark robes whispering softly around him at the motion, his expression sharp and stern as he gazed upon the others. "I second the motion. Let Carnifex stand as our Dark Lord, and direct our forces against the Light. The Darkness must be fed."

​

| [member="Kaalia Voldaren"] | [member="Darth Ophidia"] | [member="Darth Prazutis"] | [member="Darth Carnifex"] | [member="Darth Abyss"] | [member="Oron Verd"] | [member="Aria Vale"] | [member="Darth Interitus"] | [member="Alkor Centaris"] | [member="Asharad Graush"] | [member="The Slave"] | [member="Krest"] |​

 

[Darth Ferus]

Krest sauntered in alongside [member="Tirdarius"] , hands grasping his cane like a fevered old man. He hobbled along until he reached his chair and promptly sat in it. Unlike the others he did not speak, simply gazing around the room with his icy blue eyes. [member="Darth Ophidia"] immediately caught his attention and the old man couldn't help but smile that his apprentice was not only still alive, but here to discuss the future of all Sith.

He would simply nod at the idea of [member="Darth Carnifex"] becoming the Dark Lord. There was no better choice.

 

[Darth Ophidia]

"Csen'ai, to csohn in'a g'enraszah."

The Pale's head stilled, then nodded as the bald Chiss whispered to her. She made no effort to look behind her. The words made perfect sense to her. The Red could watch her all he liked. She was blending, not hiding. Under the cover of murmurs set in motion by the points raised, Ophidia whispered back to her young apprentice. Her eyes did not avert from the important matters, and her voice did not carry longer than she wished. She controlled her volume perfectly.

"120-8. Brunette, petite."

Filiae jerked into attention, following the pale's instructions with almost machine-like accuracy. Yet, she was subtle in every action. Ophidia had taught her the arts of subtlety since she was only a girl. Such training was not one forgot, not if one wished to live. The Rattataki slipped a disk into the Chiss' hand when she had her eyes on [member="Aria Vale"] .

After their exchange of whispers, Ophidia turned her full attention back to the politics at hand. She was far at the back, but picked up all: A dark lord rising and the Sith gathering in unity. She watched, she heard, she spoke not. Not yet. She was not the public face of Sith, but the wielder of cloaks and daggers. Her silence was consent enough.

Filiae, however, dimmed her presence far enough to slip through the group without notice, but not so much that her subdued presence was in itself disturbing. Had she moved towards the centre, then she would no doubt have aroused suspicion. As she was, she was simply insignificant. In this state, the Chiss moved towards her designated target. The disk presented to her turned between her fingers as she gathered herself, exhaled, and swooped in. With a casual motion of "sorry", Filiae attempted to squeeze past Aria and slipping the disk into her possession with the out-most discretion.