Karys Narat iv-Adas

Akheron adjusted the sealed protective suit he had since placed over his robes, as best he was able. His mask was the only component exposed, as he had elected to use the in-built breather. He did somewhat Envy Solus and Inmortos for being able to last without such a need for such equipment to stay breathing like himself and the Linnorms with them. The air in the crater proving toxic to those not prepared. Yet he could also feel the death, pain and suffering of the long dead. A Wound of the Force created from the destruction wrought of the moon crashing down near this spot, he heard his apprentice and answered in reply to his fascination. "As I told you on Naboo my apprentice, Wounds of the Force, especially those created from the Darkness are long lasting and never truly fade. Such a Wound leaves a mark that cannot be undone, no matter how hard the Jedi might try. Such a place becomes as a Nexus of the Dark energy the Fanged God provides, a fulcrum that can be used to our advantage or any of sufficient skill in the Dark arts. A Master or Dark Lord. Such a Nexus or Wound have been known to last millennia such is the case of Malachor V which suffered a similar fate as this desolate place. Come, let us go deeper...I feel something. Something string in the Darkness below. But what the source is I do not yet know. Perhaps this is why Krath Inmortos brought us here, to seek yet another Dark treasure. Perhaps one that could be just as rewarding as previous. We shall see, however remain cautious even then, such treasures are likely well guarded." Just as he was about to move, he noted a group of three who were not part of their group or the Linnorms, approaching over the top of the crater. Tourists it looked like and a local hillbilly guide. A old looking local human who had survived the moon's fall and been taking extreme travellers for a fair price to see the crater for the last few years. But never had he expected to see the group below or know the danger he was now in. Knowing they might draw unwanted suspicion, Akheron signalled to Solus to dispose of the guide himself and the female beside him. Akheron would deal with the other two himself. Focusing within the Darkness, Akheron proceeded to loosen the area they were standing upon, sending a bald male tumbling into a lava vent, frying him almost in a instant as his suit caught aflame and the red hot fire spread up his body. His screams only made Akheron want more. The other he pulled towards himself before impaling the unfortunate young adult from Kuat upon his lightsaber, allowing the tourists to know the truth of what faced them. That the Sith were here and they were as nothing to them. Nothing but another sacrifice to the Fanged and and the Darkness. Another fallen to the might of the Sith.

Akheron nodded as he listened, he too had suffered such a vision long ago. One of many such involuntary visions in his lifetime, a gift of curse of the Darkness he didn't know. Only that they were random at best, perhaps one day he would find why but not yet. Continuing to listen, he understood and held no disappointment, at least not much. For he too had suffered a similar rate and learnt a lesson or two. He spoke. "I see then you like me are gifted or cursed, I do not know of the ability to see visions, of the future some say, it is a rare ability of the Force. One that is usually involuntary like we have suffered. I do not know the reason for them only that they occur randomly, months or years apart sometimes. One day perhaps we shall both find a answer to that particular riddle, but for now let us focus on Coruscant. I am not disappointed, not as much as you may think my apprentice. It is good you have learnt from your experience...To balance between the veil of life and death, to come back the stronger for it. Remember that for every mistake, as a Sith we learn, we grow and adapt. We turn our weaknesses into our strength, reborn anew from each encounter and battle. Broken and remade. I too have learnt a lesson or two today, I underestimated my opponent, much like yourself, a mistake I shall not repeat. Come, we shall use this opportunity. Coruscant shall provide us plenty of opportunities to teach you how to better survive should you encounter your new rival...yes use him as a focus of your hate. In that you will also grow the stronger, closer to the Darkness and the Fanged God. Once there we shall begin your proper introduction to the arts of the lightsaber, to become one with it and the Darkness the Fanged God provided while in battle." with that, Akheron turned to the view screen as they came to the planet. Coruscant awaited. ((Next post be on Coruscant, although I think Inmortos is posting first.))

Akheron listened, even as he heard the Shard echo as he spoke. Although strange at first, he quickly realised this was a side effect of his injuries substained, ones unlikely to be able too be fixed. Perhaps permanent markers, at least in his current form. When asked where they were headed he answered calmly. "Hmm...It seems you suffering some side effects of your bout, ones we were unable to fix. No matter, it is a small price to pay for our service to the Fanged God. We have been provided by Krath Inmortos, we shall rendezvous at what remains of Coruscant, as a planet racked by shifting tectonic activity, ruined cityscapes, deserts and a Dark presence in the force, we shall blend in and use the opportunity to train. The harsh environment will be a ideal testing ground. And a ideal location to recruit where possible using the outcasts and those abandoned during the moon's falling."

As his apprentice screamed and yelled, his words at first a garbled mess, Akheron looked on seemingly lacking any emotion, and yet within he hoped his apprentice survived. For despite their many differences and missteps, he had found a kinship with the Shard over the last month's he had spent training him. In many says he reminded him of himself when he was younger. Eventually the Shard sounded and moved as he had before his destruction. Albeit now he had a different look, temporary as it was. As his apprentice spoke, Akheron considered his answer carefully before replying. "You arise at last my apprentice, we almost thought you were lost to the Fanged God. It has not been that long, only a mere few hours since I last saw you, however it appears you suffered as I did. Albeit you more than I. We both have made a personal sacrifice to achieve the victory the Fanged God required as did all of Clan Brasganu. For we suffered many losses and were forced to regroup, but we did our part. And yet there is never a victory without first great sacrifice, some more than others. We must see this a with all Sith, as is our way. For even when we are broken, we become stronger in our rebirth. With every defeat, we learn and adapt. Such as we must do now, although we have suffered greatly, the Clan shall be reborn just as we shall. Stronger than ever, having learnt from our mistakes. Remember what you saw, what you felt, your mistakes and your successes....for every moment is one to learn from. Your enemy may have thought he destroyed you, but now you must prove that was their error, in letting you continue to live. Now the galaxy will suffer our Wrath upon our return and we shall avenge the dead and our suffering. This is not the end, it is only the beginning. And you have passed another test, when your loyalty was questioned. You remained steadfast, and resisted temptation, it will not be forgotten. Come, arise if you are able. We have much work to do in rebuilding into what we once was and in completing your training. Once you have a more permanent body, we shall continue...starting with lightsaber training, we have had little time to prepare you for your first bout...a mistake I shall not repeat. Next time you shall be more prepared."

For the hours since the duel with the young Imperial Knight, Darth Akheron had been sitting in a badge tank, healing his wounds from the battle, or those that could be. The rest was now heavily scarred over, a side effect of one of the abilities he had used to help sustain himself during the bout. His prosthetic leg and and had since been repaired, allowing him free movement when he arose. It was the nearby screams of his apprentice, just opposite that first roused him from his trance inside the bacta tank. Lifting his eyes, he could see repairs taking shape, even as he himself was released from the wet healing prison he had been placed in. Putting the some temporary armor, he took the set he had been wearing and placed them close to Solus. Picking up a hammer and lighting a fire he got to work. He would keep an eye while repairing and talk should he awaken. Bashing the first sent out, he picked up a couple of pieces of Sith Steel, putting them in the fire, he brought them to a anvil and hammered away. If Solus could see anything, he would catch his master at work. A rare sight...to see the Sith Warrior fixing his armour in plain sight. However it was necessary, there was not much space remaining after taking survivors from the destroyed ships. Overlapping the layers, he made it strong but flexible. Matching his needs. Soon enough and it was new again, matching his last. Walking to Solus, he decided to help. Motioning to Stitch-Mouth, he chose what he thought might be useful to the young Sith Assassin and welding it in place, servos for heightened agility and stealth, harder Sith Steel outer layers, overlapped to resist lightsaber strikes. Next time he would not be so easily defeated, he would make certain of it as best he was able. He would be given the tools, but it was for him to make use of them.

Captain Garrus looked on, as the Clan Brasganu fleet suffered heavy losses. Losses that he knew were necessary, and accepted by all in the Clan, including those who had given their lives. They did so willingly, bringing glory to the Fanged God and the Darkness. Soon all that remained was Akheron's flagship, in all her glory fighting for the Sith with what remained of her escorts. He was about to order a suicide run into one of the ships when he received word from the surface from his Lord-Captain. Akheron was still alive but sounded wounded. Hearing the command and seeing the hologram, Captain Garrus obeyed. He waited until the necromancers ship the Eternus, was safely within the hangar before ordering what remained of the interceptors and bombers to head back into the hangar and prepare for a quick departure. Soon enough and all was ready as the mighty ship made for hyperspace, ducking behind Sith lines using them as cover before making a getaway.

Akheron nodded as he took the co-ordinates, once aboard and pocketed what remained of his apprentice. It was probably a little humiliating to be stored as such but for now, he had few other choices. It was as he thought...he has suffered just as much as himself, if not more so and yet he knew it would be a lesson learnt. Although broken as with all Sith they would be remade anew, stronger from the experience. But first he would need a new body, easily rectified once aboard his flagship. If it had survived the battle raging above. From the sounds of it, the fight had been fierce and the Clan had suffered heavy losses, and yet they were necessary and he knew each Lord-Captain knew the risks and accepted their lives as sacrifices to the Fanged God. In the end, Darkness would win by burning the planet to it's primal core, the losses would be honoured and the dead avenged soon enough. For now the Clan Brasganu had done it's part and would regroup to rebuild. Stepping to a console, Akheron sent a message above. "Captain Garrus, take what remains of the Clan and regroup at these co-ordinates I am sending. I shall meet the flagship there. Although we have suffered, our losses shall not be in vain. These sacrifices shall be remembered and avenged soon enough." Receiving a acknowledgement the trio departed the planet, one soon to be ground into dust. Although Akheron did wonder where the performance was leading them, questions soon to be answered. In the meantime he would use the trip to heal in a bacta a tank and have Stitch-Mouth make a temporary body for his fallen apprentice.

Akheron smiled under his mask as he made his attempt and yet his positive disposition soon changed. The young Imperial Knight started to gain the upper hand, as both opponent's engaged, saber meeting saber in equal measure before all he felt was more pain as he was impaled in the side, searing a long line of cauterized flesh. Moments later and a explosion occurred, disengaging he stepped back as debris and molten slab rained down to seperate the two just as he thought he was about to finish his enemy. It appeared the Fanged God had other plans for the two, or so the Sith Warrior thought as he found he could not reach his adversary in the aftermath. Instead Akheron, with a look of disappointment upon his face found that he could not and would be unable to finish the bout, one which had tested his abilities, was forced to tactically retreat as he, despite his immense pain dodged and weaved the opposite direction to the Imperial Knight attempting to avoid the rain of hellfire tungsten and shuttle debris. Clear at last, he wondered what the future might hold. He hoped they would meet again to end what had been started, for his adversary had been a worthy one despite his age. Until then, he sensed out in the Force, finding easily the necromancer, Krath Inmortos although something was wrong. His apprentice was barely felt, although he could feel something of a slight glimmer that he was still in the realm of mortals. Moving towards the direction he felt them, he traversed the danger area carefully and cautiously, wincing when he moved on account of his wounds. They would be dealt with soon enough, until then he would endure. Finally approaching, he noted Solus was nowhere to be seen, although his bound Tear was present. He had a feeling, his apprentice had faired equally as himself in combat, if not worse. Or he would be standing beside the necromancer. Speaking, he looked at Inmortos while clutching his ribs, trying to soothe some of pain as he applied a temporary bacta patch. Not that it would do much, but it would suffice until on the flagship. "Greetings brother Inmortos. I see you decided to join the fun, I came close to ending a young Imperial Knight, a soul you would have loved, however he proved a far more worthy adversary than I gave him credit for. And the Fanged God deemed he would live another day by intervening. I hope we shall meet again someday, to finish the game we started. But for now the only solace I shall have is my wounds and perhaps a chance to sate my anger on others here. Which reminds me, where is my apprentice? Have you seen him...I can feel him, it is weak but he lives still. I wonder if he had a similar encounter as myself. What has become of him."

((3)) Akheron observed and took note, cautiously as he made his advance. The heavy blows appeared to be driving his opponent back, a fact that excited the Sith Warrior as he found success. Defending himself against the counter attack and ducking below the debris, deflecting it into smaller chunks away from his face as Aiden flung it towards him, Akheron continued his assault regardless, ignoring the pain he felt in his ribs and his left arm. Instead he used it to fuel himself, fuel his desire and Rage to take the Imperial Knight out and feed the fangs of Darkness. His opponent for the moment was on the retreat, but he knew better than to trust the situation. His opponent was smart and cunning. Throughout their bout he had come to somewhat admire his enemy. He respected his skill and defiance, his unorthodox approach, even if it would not save his soul from damnation in the end. His soul would be devoured as with all by the Fanged God. Using his experience wrought of a long life and many lessons, Akheron decided upon a strategy. He knew both were getting exhausted, it was time to end the charade. Time to end his opponent or have his own life taken. It would be down to the next few moments, that much he knew. He could feel it. Gripping his lightsaber with his right hand, he looked at Aiden directly in the eyes as he stepped forwards, focused his senses. Moving in the blink of a eye he confronted the first strike, judging the timing of the movement, and trusting his reflexes, now he had adjusted to the unorthodox strikes. Deflecting the second strike, but catching it across his faceplate, leaving a scar across his right eye, and adding further pain, he noted some hesitation from his opponent, like he was holding back. His intuition turned out to be correct when he saw the second lightsaber ignite and attempt to drive into him on the follow through. Using the Force he rolled backwards and off to the right side slightly, utilising a combat roll and hopefully coming up beyond the range of the lightsaber. Again he allowed his free hand to touch the ground as he rose up, and send death outwards in it's wake. A Force enhanced strike into the ground that would shatter the earth beneath their feet and interfere with his opponent's footing as debris and dirt were ripped free, like spikes of malice sticking out at jagged angles from the once flat earth beneath. Or so was the intended goal. A setup for something more lethal, the endgame of his deadly strategy. Utilising the Juyo lightsaber form of combat, as he had throughout the duel, Akheron struck with his full fury. Maintaining the outer calm associated with the form, yet with a intense internal pressure, he struck. Unleashing his full ferocity and aggression in a series of erratic and unpredictable strikes aided by the Force. Aimed for a single purpose, to take the life from his adversary. Using the Force in the form of Force Speed, Akheron increased his speed, focusing his remaining energy to slow down his perception of the world and make himself a blur to observers as he was granted the ability to see the world and the entities around in slow motion. To anyone around not sensitive to the force, it would be like seeing a blur flash before the eyes. Striking four blows in a continuous barrage, Akheron aimed the first two to deflect and redirect the initial blows, a attempt to divert attention away from his true target. The third was aimed at the wound in his opponent's side, to drive deeply inwards and upwards and hopefully impale hiim before he would try to drive his lightsaber up his spine, severing it from his nervous system, and cutting outwards through the shoulder diagonally. He hoped it was successful. It was a risky manuever he knew, and he risked more injury himself, but what was combat without risk. And he was willing to pay the price for victory. Either he would be successful and live another day of his opponent would. Either way the Fanged God and the Darkness would have their soul. A worthy sacrifice no matter the outcome. He was more than willing to sacrifice himself for his cause, yet he wondered was the Imperial Knight just as devoted. How far was he willing to go, he was about to find out. ((Utilised Force Speed to attempt to avoid the the third strike Aiden is attempting and potentially avoid the igniting second lightsaber. Followed through with another Tremor Impact to setup a Force Speed enhanced barrage of four strikes, two of which are deflections/redirects with the third aimed at potentially impaling deep into Aiden's wound in his left side and drive upwards along the spine out the shoulder.))

((2)) His attempted strike was in part successful, illeciting a slight smirk as the Sith Warrior delighted in catching his prey. The thrill of the battle was like a drug that could not be easily sated by Darth Akheron, it was where he found his purpose and calling in life. Like a sweet nectar it enthralled and called to him, here he was in his element. The Imperial Knight was on the operating table and Akheron was the surgeon. And yet despite his success it was not to last. As Akheron plunged his lightsaber into his opponent's side he felt a twinge in the force, a feeling that let him know to prepare for a incoming strike, and strike it did. Flying backwards from the violence of the unexpected Force blast, the Sith Warrior was sent into a spiral in mid air before coming to a stop, impacting violently with a sickening crunch against the side of one of the damaged and burning shuttles. Just like his opponent, he too had suffered from the impact. His lungs struggled for breath and when he did he found only pain with each breath he took. Feeling his side, he felt the source, prodding his sides, at least two broken ribs and one fractured along his left side. Internal only it appeared but a unwanted irritation, one easily remedied by a Sith Warrior such as he was. Focusing the Darkness he called forth the chilling numbness of ice that was drawn from the wellspring of the Cold Mind, focusing the energy he enveloped and numbed his senses and pain receptors, bathing them in a chilling agony and dulling the pain. At least temporarily. Any blood seeping out would soon clot with a icey rime that would leave massive scarring, but he didn't care. It was a small price to pay for his survival. He would make the Imperial Knight pay for that. Struggling at first, he stood up to see his opponent likewise rising from where he had come to rest. Locking eyes, Akheron noted that his enemy appeared to be attempting to employ the same unorthodox approach he had used from when they had first begun their bout. Smiling beneath the mask, he found it a foolish notion...thinking that a Sith Warrior would fall for the same trick twice, no he would not be so easily fooled. Not like a some meager apprentice or young Lord who had not seen battle. He learnt from every mistake and grew stronger because of them. As Aiden made his advance, Akheron feigned falling into the trap. As the first strike came, he at the last moment, used the force to propel himself upwards and twist around, using a Force Jump to attempt to go over and above, slashing his saber towards Aiden's back and hoping to land behind his opponent for another lightsaber strike horizontal across the back of the Imperial Knight's knees. He would attempt to continue the barrage with a series of progressively heavier and harder strikes starting with four initially. Strikes empowered by his Rage and frustration, his Wrath. The intensity would increase the longer that it went on, so long as his target remained not dead, a self sustaining loop of attacks fueled by Akheron's emotions of the previous strikes failing to be lethal would be created. A series of strikes that to his opponent would look like a series of hacking attacks where form was sacrificed for power. A fact which was a lie. Each strike carried a preternatural momentum and force, with each successive blow striking heavier than the last. He would punish his opponent and show him the fury of the Sith. ((Initially used The Indifference of Titans as written in the Sith Warrior guide, then a Force Jump/Slash to the back and the knees hopefully to continue with a Sawblade Strike.))

((1)) The final words had been spoken and the Sith Warrior saw no further need to embellish or talk further, they both had passed that point of diplomacy. Only battle was to be had now. The Sith sighed as he stepped into position, it was a shame the Imperial Knight was so short sighted, at least he thought so, yet he would not be wasted, he would make a fine offering to the Fanged God and to the Darkness. As Aiden made his first steps, Akheron stepped forwards defensively, his lightsaber held in his right hand at a reverse grip. As the young Imperial Knight before him headed into a sprint, the Sith Warrior focused within the Dark side of the Force, drawing upon his own dark thoughts to access the deepest parts where the Light could never penetrate and where compassion and mercy was nowhere to be found. What emerged was something deadly and sinister, something truly monstrous. There was soon no emotion, no warmth...just a being of cold, where nothing or no-one could reach the man that once was and had been just moments ago. This was soon echoed in the very atmosphere around as where he stood dropped to freezing and ice begun to form along the ground into treacherous patches of frozen tundra. Akheron was now a being devoid of anything save a heartless calculus and a cold objectivity towards one purpose. Such was the state he had entered within his mind, such was the mental state of the Cold Mind where a warrior such as himself traded his emotions for fortitude in internal distance, hardening his or her heart against loss and forgoing the usual emotional inferno of the Sith psyche. Akheron begun moving with the mechanical efficiency associated with this particular mind state. And all was so he would hopefully bring his opponent to his doom. At first taken a little by surprise by his opponent's unorthodox approach, Akheron brought his saber up, managing barely to deflect the first strike, narrowly avoiding the second but receiving the third across his left arm as he turned, bouncing off one of the Force Barriers his enemy had dispersed in front of him, and sending him backwards slightly, forcing him adjust his footing to compensate. The strike sent a shot of pain upwards but the Sith Warrior simply shrugged it off, his current mind state numbing him to the sensations, he used them instead to further feed and fuel his focus within the Dark. Intensifying his calculating and mechanised approach. Adapting quickly, Akheron likewise circled his opponent as he batted away the final strike, again bouncing off a invisible barrier. A smile gripped his lip, his eyes stared intently at Aiden, now black as midnight as the Darkness took full hold, icey and transfixed as if staring into his very soul, or through it. It was difficult to ascertain which. Within moments he issued his counter offense. Switching his saber to be other hand, his left one with razor fingers, Akheron made his advance, this time with caution, knowing his opponent was not to be underestimated...he would not repeat his first mistake. Indeed now he has a vague idea of the measure of the man before him. For he knew the truth of every Warrior. You did not truly know someone until you fought them. The Imperial Knight had made his introduction, now the Sith Warrior would make his. Entering a brief run, he stopped just before Aiden and struck his free hand into the ground with a Force enhanced blow, sending a trembling wave of dirt and debris forwards before him, uprooting any all in the way along it's path as the earth was shattered beneath it (Tremor Impact). The ripples forwards after the initial strike, acted like a tsunami of death that was aimed at interfering with the footing of Akheron's adversary. To set him up as he would unleash a torrent of pain in the form of four short ranged telekinetic grapples aimed at bring this opponent either down or within range of his lightsaber. Known as Chwit’Jen’Itsu by any Sith Warrior familiar with the techique, they were composed of rapid joint hyperextension and lightning fast TK throws, ones that took advantage of his opponent's potential mental vulnerabilities, extreme pain and overextension of their own efforts. He hoped it was the case here that his opponent, one who appeared worthy despite his youth, had overextended his use when erecting the Force Barriers, and he had opened himself to attack by it. ((Just to clarify for the Moderators and yourself. Akheron is currently using the Cold Mind state, in combination with the Tremor Impact as written in the Sith Warrior guide to hopefully perform a series of four TK type grapples/throws in the form of the Chwit’Jen’Itsu ability and make Aiden more vulnerable to saber strikes. ))

Akheron couldn't help but laugh beneath his mask, loud enough that the young Imperial Knight before him could hear. How naive were his thoughts and how little he knew or so the Sith Warrior believed. As with many Jedi and those affiliated with them he spouted the same hypocritical nonsense, accusing him and the Sith with a barbed tongue, like venom from a viper. As the Imperial approached, Akheron instinctively held his saber in his right hand, ready to pounce should he advance further. He wasn't fearful, it was more caution. He sensed out in the force trying to get a feeling for his would be opponent if he continued to resist and persist with a accusing finger. "That's far enough. You know that is funny coming from a Jedi outcast and that you think there is a choice. There is never a choice just the illusion of it. You have no idea how hypocritical you sound. Your hands and those of the Jedi and your allies are hardly clean, the blood of many coats your hands too, it cannot be denied. An eye for an eye Imperial... this is not murder, it is justice and equal vengeance. No-one is innocent. We do not forgive or forget, not like you. This is the price paid, a blood debt for the blood your kind and the Jedi have spilt for decades. Ziost will be avenged, Kuat will be avenged...need I continue the list. The Fanged God will have his due and this planet shall be purged, forfeiting the souls of the condemned to be devoured. You cannot stop the tied of Darkness young Imperial Knight, you cannot escape fate. You insult a path of learning with no understanding. One must first be broken if they are to remade, stronger, capable of surviving a unforgiving galaxy. While you reject the outcasts, those refused by society we welcome them. While you refuse knowledge of how to bring life from death, we welcome it. To face the deepest Darkness in the void and become one with it. Only the strong survive, this is the eternal law of the universe and we accept that as part of us. Accept that and there is redemption for you also, refuse and there is no return. Yet I also wonder, what will happen. Regardless of this it appears unlikely we shall agree, thus the dice have already been cast, the bell rung. I can see it in your eyes, sense it within you...you will never accept the truth I speak. A pity, but fear not even in death your soul will not go unwasted. Krath Inmortos would love a soul such as yours. A memento of this world from a friend and I will at least honour you with a quick death if you prove worthy of such. Come, let us see who shall survive this night, who will succumb first. The Light or the Darkness. I allow you the honour of first strike young Imperial Knight, let us see who's soul shall feed the Fanged God." Igniting his saber, Akheron knew it had begun. ((First post goes to you Aiden))

As the shuttle entered the atmosphere, it continued to rock backwards and forwards as the gravitational forces worked against the damaged and disabled ship. Grabbing a hold of a seat, Akheron used the force to try and aid with some of the stabilization but found it did very little so stopped. Instead he trusted the pilot to act as necessary and bring them safely as he could to a stop below. Several Linnorms vomited, coating the floor in a sticky mess, which Akheron attempted to avoid stepping into. Grabbing a tight hold, Akheron went to the cockpit and assisted the pilot as best he could with bringing the ship down, hoping to avoid a unnecessary demise before they even made a kill. Spiralling down, the shuttle received several shots from anti air defenses only further adding to the troubled state of the craft. Yet Akheron placed his trust in a higher power. He focused in the Darkness of the force and yanked the yolk. The ship soon stabilised as best it was able before getting closer to the ground. He saw a landing as in the view screen and saw his best bet. Aiming for the pad, the ship rattled and spluttered against the unstable and unnatural angles being performed before finally the inevitable happened. The shuttle crashed with a mighty bang into the ground before plowing into a group of civilians who were standing near what appeared to be a Imperial Knight (Aiden Darkfire) and finally careening into the shuttle already situated upon the platform in a mangled mess of metal, bodies and flaming wreckage. Yet for the most part Akheron himself was unscathed, save for a few scratches and a bump on the head. He thanked the Fanged God for his mercy before advancing as best he could towards the back, the pilot was dead, flung through the front and into snagged metal pole. Making his way, he noted several of the Linnorms had met similarly grim fates, but he had little time to check further, they were after all in enemy territory. Grabbing what equipment he had secured to himself, including his lightsaber, Akheron made for what remained of the ramp. But not before quickly checking to see where his apprentice, Solus was and his beast the Tuk'ata Tear. He couldn't tell, but in the force he knew he was at least alive. On that notion, he exited through a hole, a tight squeeze for his frame but he managed. And then he saw the Imperial Knight again, this time much closer. He could feel the Light from him, detestable as it was. A candle soon to be snuffed out and yet perhaps he could be persuaded to convert. There was only one way to find out. Approaching cautiously from a distance, standing far enough that he wouldn't be in range of a sneak attack, Akheron spoke. His mask concealing everything save for his piercing completely yellow eyes and where some skin showed the crimson red of his species. Especially upon his organic and starkiller like left arm, with fingers that were very much like that of Freddy Krueger, razor sharp with metal imbued with that of Sith Magic, melding bone, flesh and metal together. "Greetings, Imperial Knight. I am Darth Akheron, One of the Lord-Captain's of the Clan Brasganu nomad fleet, the House Of Dragons. Sith Warrior and Lord Of Wrath and Rage. Who might you be who stands before me, looking at me as if I were some monster. The Bothans appear to have arranged for our meeting, as unplanned as it is. Or was it...no I think not. There are no coincidences as you likely know. Not where the force is concerned. Perhaps the Fanged God and the Darkness has another plan for you just as they have for me. We shall see. If you wish to live beyond today I suggest you listen closely young Imperial Knight. This planet and those upon it are doomed, surely you can see that. They chose this fate just as we chose ours, the choices made by your allies, the Alliance and their Jedi puppets, who foolishly serve the Light, as weak and ineffective as it is lead to this moment, to their demise. They will pay the price for Korriban and others. The Light is fading in the galaxy, surely you can see that, it has had it's day... it's time for the Darkness provided by the Fanged God to take the reigns. You have a Darkness within you waiting to be released. Why not let it out, why resist what you are? Become your true self. I offer a choice. A proposal if you will, join Clan Brasganu, the House Of Dragons and be redeemed. Refuse and be cast into oblivion, purged from the galaxy and your soul devoured by the Fanged God and the Darkness as is the fate of the weak minded, those who cast aside the truth of the galaxy. Cast aside like the Alliance and the Jedi, their souls tainted and equally devoured, all their sins laid bare. What is your choice young Imperial Knight? What fate do you choose for you and those others around us here. I would choose wisely." Akheron awaited a answer, his saber in one hand ready to be ignited should he refuse his generous proposal. For a refusal was never to be taken lightly, it would be met with the full fury of the Sith Warrior, for denying the Darkness and the Fanged God was to be condemned to the fangs. Their soul eaten and lost to the void.

Akheron felt the flagship rock as the first volley from the newly arrived opposing fleet under Godfrey d’Outremer decided to target Clan Brasganu. The House Of Dragons would oblige the coward or so he thought for attacking from behind. He was certain Captain Garrus would make him pay for his transgression. Entering the shuttle he soon departed, answering his apprentice. "It is possible the Fanged God may be observing...but we must still be on our guard. Our enemies are not to be underestimated. It appears that some have already taken a disliking to the House Of Dragons, we shall not forget what they have done, even should we lose we will make them regret their actions. Come, the False Empress awaits." Soon enough and the shuttle lifted, exiting the ship even as the barrage continued, a metal beam blown free narrowly avoided them as they exited. The pilot was doing his job admirably, dodging and weaving at least before a specific problem occurred. The shuttle shock as all control was wrested from his hands, alarms blurred as the shuttle took a dive towards the surface. Charging towards the cockpit, Akheron looked to see what the problem was, questioning the pilot who was stressfully trying to keep control and slow the descent. One Linnorm flew forwards and into the bulkhead. "What's going on, what is the issue!? Why are we falling." "My lord! Someone has hijacked the systems, they somehow found a loophole and have hacked the shuttle. I have been trying to find a way around it but it's too complex and beyond my skill. I will keep control as best I can but looks like we are going down whether we like it or not!" Akheron was not amused, but seeing the screens the pilot was correct. There was no way to avoid a descent, it was going to be a rough ride, turning he went to his apprentice and spoke. "We got a problem my apprentice, someone has hijacked the shuttle systems and there is no solution. It's gonna get rough so hold on and secure what you can, inform the Linnorms to be ready for a bumpy entry." After that there was little that could be done as the shuttle descended to whatever awaited below, breaking the atmosphere and narrowly avoiding several mines although one clipped a wing sending the shuttle into a spiral down. ((Will continue in the Nar Shadda - Headquarters thread)) --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Captain Garrus received the communication from Mavanger's fleet and was just about to issue the order when the attack happened. Struck from behind, he felt the flagship rock as several new blips appeared on his screens and Clan Brasganu was assailed by Godfrey d’Outremer and the forces he brought to bare. Quickly he issued new orders as he found now he would need to try and split the fleet and attempt to both assist Lord Mavanger and take care of this new problem. A escort cruiser was cut in half as the barrage made it's first mark on the death cult. A idea sprang to mind, one that make use of the new necromancer that had recently joined the Clan. Or rather the cargo he carried. "Turn us around, inform the Chaos Bringer, Sacred Flame and the Feast Of Souls to do the same. Bring us about and lay a volley of missiles and turbo laser fire on the one in charge of that rabble. I want him ground into dust. Inform Krath Inmortos that we have need of some his undead, that we request them to be sent into those ships hangar bays under cover of the volley and Acklay Interceptors to divert attention, we shall tear them apart from the inside out. Let us see how they handle something not truly alive or dead among their ranks. The other half of the fleet continue to assist Lord Mavanger and lead these scum into range of the black hole." Moments after the order was issued and the ships starting maneuvering, taking evasion actions as the fleet rearranged and recomposed itself to face the new threat. Soon enough and the orders were complete, as the various ships begun laying a barrage of turbo laser fire, missiles and torpedoes in kind with the House Of Dragons meeting Godfrey with the fury of every Linnorm aboard the ships assigned to destroy them. Inmortos obliged, unleashing several shuttles that made their way towards the new fleet covered by Acklay Interceptors as escort, laden with undead cargo ready to feast upon any soul they reached in their grubby hands once let loose of their impromptu cage. The other half slowly made it's way towards Mavanger's fleet, hoping his ships would provide ample cover while they lured the enemy towards the Wound created by Sheog.

As Darth Mavanger's fleet arrived so to did Clan Brasganu, House Of Dragons not far behind him. The eight Lord-Captain's of the marauding and raiding nomad fleet belonging to the entirety of the death cult was present and ready to unleash it's own brand of horrors upon those above and below. As the ships arrived, Inmortos ship moved to release it's shuttles laden on the planet below with the undead. It mattered not the manner of their arrival only that the cargo reached the surface to begin a pandemic that would be near impossible to contain. For none could truly stop the undead, when one fell another would replace them. A smile drew across Akheron's face as he observed the carnage of the battle, the entirety of the Sith armada in one place, for one purpose. He could feel the chaos, destruction, horror, panic, pain and rage of all present in the currents of the force and drew upon it to feed his own strength, preparing for the task ahead. Akheron observed the Wound created by Sheog and any Krath who joined the hive mind, felt it's power. He had the fleet divert away from that particular area...no his target was more specific. He had the crew scan the area and search for one particular ship. The Misericordia. The False Empress pride and joy, her flagship. The Clan Brasganu fleet would aid with it's destruction. Klaxons sounded throughout the ship as it rocked back and forth to the sounds of attack and counterattacks. Further he noted how mines were being cleared. He spoke to Captain Garrus, a veteran of many wars who had spent the last few years serving under Akheron. "You shall be left in command Captain Garrus. I go to prepare myself for personal battle, The Dragon is to go with me. Locate the Misericordia, intel suggests that ship belongs to the False Empress. Once this is done, have the fleet co-ordinate with the rest of the armada and assist with the removal of her escorts and the mines. We shall clear a path to her. Unleash the Acklay fighters and bombers, let the enemy be consumed by the swarm. For the glory of the Fanged God and the Darkness." With that the Fangs Of Darkness was left in the captain's capable hands. Further along, one ship was destroyed in a instant, a older model belonging to Lord-Captain Faros, shame she was a great addition. Moving he knew the Linnorms knew what to do, just as every member of the fleet and their crews. They had their part to play, one and all. Akheron made for a hangar bay where a shuttle awaited that would get him to where he needed to be. He wondered how Solus was faring, this being his first proper battle with the full might of the Sith Empire. Soon enough and wave upon wave of the battle tested Acklay Class Heavy Interceptors launched from the many bays. The fleet merged with that of Sheog's and Dark Lady Nyrys's fleet elements, lending aid where possible.

Akheron spoke out, even as in the Darkness he felt a familiar presence nearby, a old friend if one could call him that. He could feel the Hunger and Gluttony. A smile crept across his lip, it seemed that he would be fighting alongside his old mentor once more. Turning to Solus as he relayed a strategy, Akheron nodded in agreement hoping the other Lord-Captain's agreed too. It had merit, to incite panic and feed upon the destruction. To bait their target out. "Agreed. My Master Of Iron is correct, perhaps a combination of the two ideas?" He was about to speak further when he received the news. A advanced Sith fleet had begun the attack upon Nar Shadda, signalling the start of the final fight between the forces of Light and Darkness. At least for now. Speaking he informed the group as he noted upon the map that the fleet around them was departing. "It appears our time to discuss further is up. The attack upon Nar Shadda has begun, thus we shall have to improvise and use what we have. It appears that Lord Mavanger's ships are also departing, let us join him and honour the Fanged God with many souls. The Alliance and their Jedi puppets shall burn in the flames of our Wrath and Rage." With that the meeting was at a end, turning to Solus he spoke. "Inform the crew to battle positions, ready the shuttles and fighters. We strike the moment we arrive at Nar Shadda. As for yourself, you shall aid me personally in securing the way to the Empress once we board her ship, we will clear a path and wipe out any resistance to allow Lord Mavanger his moment. If I am needed, I shall be in the hangar bays preparing for the moment we arrive, after you have performed your current duties you are to join me. We must be ready for stiff resistance for Nar Shadda is their centre of power. Of Light, we shall strife to topple it." With that he departed for the hangar bays, ready for the Clan Brasganu, the House Of Dragons to follow his lead and begin the largest purge for what was perhaps years. All would soon know the truth of the Fanged God and the Darkness.

A short journey later from Falleen and the full might of the Clan Brasganu nomad fleet arrived above Naboo. Or what remained of it after the previous destruction and purging of the planet. Some of which the Clan played a part in. In the outer atmosphere, high above among the stars staring down at the planet, Akheron could still feel the death below. The wound caused by the Sith advance. Turning away he looked towards a large console at the centre of the room. He had the crew inform the correct authority of just who they were and that Clan Brasganu had arrived to assist in the coming battle. The fleet was a strange mix of modern and older ships, all unique in their own ways. The Lord-Captain's having marked and changed them in their own ways to fit their personality and rituals. Akheron stood in anticipation at just what the meeting with the other Lord-Captain's including the newly minted Krath Inmortos, the latest Lord-Captain to be officially recognised in the House Of Dragons, Clan Brasganu would entail. It was the first time they had met in such a way in months, having not found the time necessary to organise such a feat between them all. The Sith Warrior stood ready as the holographic display lit up with the other Lord-Captain's glowing a bright blue and shimmering. Akheron began, allowing his apprentice to add anything should he wish. For as his second command he had the right to partake in the further politics of the Clan. "We have been asked to assist the task of seeing Darth Mavanger reaches the supposed Empress that sits at the head of the Alliance and their Jedi puppets. To assist with removing and chopping off the head of the viper and feeding her soul to the Fanged God and the Darkness. We shall help clear the path but the Empress herself must be Lord Mavanger's quarry for the Dark Lady has requested it. I am open to suggestions as to how best accomplish this. As for my own, I suggest a few bombing runs on civilian targets, lure her forces out from the protection they are afforded. Let's see if we can push her to make a mistake we can exploit."

Soon enough and Solus had returned, signalling all was ready. Looking to the ship crew Akheron ordered all into a state of readiness as the engines powered up, with the supplies restocked and the weaponry rearmed the fleet was ready for its next challenge. Only this time the fleet was far larger than before as a result of the other Lord-Captain's ships joining with Akheron and Inmortos. Giving the signal to depart, the fleet finally entered hyperspace and to Naboo to whatever fate awaited there. They would discuss the strategy en-route. ((Next stop Naboo.))

Akheron observed, moving along his own row of troops, inspecting. Yet even then, just like his apprentice, he could feel in the Darkness of the Force that something just wasn't quite right. A twinge alerted him to the fact he was about to be attacked, as such his hand went reflexively towards his lightsaber, however he found he had no further need to act. The Shard had dealt with the matter swiftly and lethally, using all his training so far. It brought a smile, appearing to affirm his choice. Turning to Solus he spoke "So it appears... good work my apprentice, you are becoming a great Sith. Soon all will tremble before your blade. It seems not all were willing to forgive or forget and reject the gifts the Fanged God offers, we shall send a message to those who would dare defy us. Inform Commander Torah Valkor over there to remove this scum, have the body delivered to Krath Inmortos ship, have him tell the necromancer we send a special gift. A body and soul of royal blood to use as he wishes. He wished death upon us but now he shall neither die nor be truly alive...a fitting punishment would you not agree. Also inform him to investigate this matter further, we need no interruptions to our plans and we can't afford to take any chances. Any resistance must be dealt with accordingly. After this meet me aboard the flagship and we shall then proceed to the rally point above Naboo with the rest of the Sith fleet." With that he gave a respectful bow before departing for a shuttle, satisfied with the inspection. Soon aboard he waited for his apprentice, as he did he had the crew put in the co-ordinates, ready for when they departed along with the necromancer alongside them.

Akheron nodded, pleased with the result and with the fact that he had been personally responsible for convincing the necromancer to join the ranks of Clan Brasganu. He had no doubt the new Father Of Dust would be a valuable asset in the future, his web of alliances and influence was growing. Turning to Solus he spoke. "Indeed it did go well, I am glad the necromancer saw reason and joined the Clan. He shall be a most valuable asset in the future, I am certain of it. You did well yourself my apprentice as well, the Linnorms shall now truly respect you as one of their own, as a equal. At least for now. I think it is time you likewise moved up in the Clan, at least in regards to your service to myself. My Master Of Iron has been in need of replacement, since they perished upon Naboo but I had yet to find one worthy. You see during your journey with me it was not just to train you but to test you. To see if you truly serve the Fanged God. Now I know this is true,and as my apprentice...heir to my power, I would name you my Master Of Iron if you would want it. In this position your authority would be considerable, however it comes with much more responsibility than a Linnorm or other positions. You shall be my lieutenant, responsible for the ship's armory. This new position of authority shall entail the issue of weapons, overseeing the ship's battle-readiness, and managing the drills and training of the Linnorms aboard. Use what I have taught you and indoctrinate and train them in the Sith ways and the ways of the Fanged God accordingly. Always ensure that the ship and its crew are ready to fight at a moment's notice. In the event of my dying outside of a proper challenge, you shall assume my role as Lord-Captain by default, though be aware and cautious. For even should this happen you may still be challenged for the position if none agree to you leading. It shall be up to you to prove you are worthy if that is the case through combat. Given this do you accept this prestigious offer? I shall allow you the journey to Naboo to consider it. For now, as practice...assist with the inspection of the new Linnorms. See that they are battle worthy, after that we shall depart with the rest of the fleet." With that he vacated the temple, motioning the Shard to follow. Soon enough and Akheron stood before a large group of battle lines, all ready for inspection with the officers at the front and their infantry troops behind them. Going along, uniforms, weapons and military discipline were scrutinized. He hoped Solus was likewise doing the same the other way, until all were inspected. He had leave to treat any lack of decorum, discipline and misstep with extreme prejudice.

Akheron closed his eyes for a moment, feeling the atmosphere of the temple. It was a sight rarely seen. A crescendo of arcane and ancient chants spoken by the priests as the Linnorms likewise chanted, banging what looked like battle drums in rythm to the beat and their feet as they pounded the floor to the beat of the room. He noted how even the necromancer seemed to pay some kind of reverence to the situation and likewise the same for his apprentice. The Master Of Hides began, speaking out. "We here today bare witness to the joining of two others. Two who have accepted the truth of the Darkness and the Fanged God. Two who have chosen to accept the Fanged God as truth. The truth that is the Fanged God is that which gifted us the knowledge of the Dark Side of the Force....the Darkness while simultaneously being a sentient entity that has always been in existence, in the shadows of the galaxy, manipulating events within the universe. The truth that such a power cannot be comprehended as a single creature by our limited minds, so must be viewed as a series of aspects that together make up the whole of the Fanged God as we know him. Take from the chalice before you, filled with the blood of a thousand victims sacrificed to the Fanged God's honour and saturated with his power. Drink and enter the trance of Joining. Pass through the trance of Joining and accept The Dragon, The Robed Master, The Maimed Beast, The Father Of Dust and finally the Golden Slave as part of you. It shall strengthen your connection to the Darkness and the Fanged God, and earn his favour through the runes applied. By drinking you show your devotion and loyalty to both the House Of Dragons and the Fanged God that you now accept as part of you. Drink and be welcomed as a equal among the Clan. And always remember, Death Remembers All." All in the room shouted "Death Remembers All!" the Clan motto, including Akheron. He knew they had nothing to fear from it, for he had gone through a similar experience when he first was initiated into the Clan.

Akheron turned to face Solus as he spoke, holding himself steady as the ship that took them down below to the surface rocked backwards and forwards. As the turbulence of entry impacted the ship and the escorts guarded the descent. "I already have something in mind, my apprentice. For as with everyone who is inducted, they must be inducted the proper way...one the Fanged God would approve of and favour. We must convince Krath Inmortos to be branded, a sign of devotion and commitment, for the branding of flesh even upon a necromancer is a true test of loyalty, one that involves both fire, violence and the trance of drums. Especially if they are adverse to such actions under usual circumstances. You have yet to receive such a mark, such a ceremony, something we will likewise remedy while we have such a chance. A true induction to the Clan, one which the Linnorms will truly respect." With that he fell silent for the remainder of the journey until the shuttle landed and the hatch opened. When they landed, they were met by a row of troops each neatly lined up and in formation, ready to greet their commander. As Akheron exited and walked each held their rifles criss-crossed in a arch over the two Sith. Saluting each, Akheron moved between motioning Solus to follow before they met the officer in charge as behind them the troops lowered the rifles and departed back into the formations and usual patrols. Akheron followed the officer, as he explained what has been happening since his departure. Brought up to date, Akheron was pleased with the progress. Turning to Solus he spoke as the officer was sent to retrieve Inmortos, in his true body for the ritual in the temple. "Things seem to be proceeding as I planned here, some day you will command such a place and people. As with all Sith. But for now, see what can be accomplished. Come the temple awaits and the ritual of joining, let us make your position official along with Krath Inmortos." Walking to the temple, once inside the atmosphere from outside changed. Inside it was a serious matter, the Linnorms banged drums in rythm as sacrifices were made in honour to the Fanged God. But these were small compared to what was to come. They sat chanting around a circle where Solus and Inmortos would kneel before the representation of the Fanged God and the Darkness. One entwined with the other. Each Sith was encouraged to sit. It would be where they would be covered in the runes of old by the Master Of Hides, tattoos that would connect each deeper with the Darkness and the Fanged God they now would serve. Even if part droid, the Shard would feel the change upon his very soul as the runes etched into the metal. All would bare witness and invoke the Fanged God's power. Through flame, drums and violence they would join. It would be the Master Of Hides who officiated but Akheron as a Lord-Captain would oversee it. Joining in the chants of the Linnorms and bowing, kneeling in reverence to what was occurring. For this was a sacred and deep held rite of passage for any wishing to join Clan Brasganu. The House Of Dragons held the ritual of joining as important. It was to be respected. Akheron waited until Inmortos would appear before they begun proper.

Akheron laughed a little as Solus entered and spoke. Speaking of his Envy for this world being in Akheron's hands, something he had no intention of changing. He replied, motioning with a arm to come forwards, and stand next to him as they bore witness to a rare sight...a gathering of the full nomad fleet of Clan Brasganu. They would all refuel here before they all went together to Naboo and battle beyond that. "Yes my apprentice...Falleen is a rare jewel indeed, one I intend to keep in our hands. It has still much untapped potential, I have only scratched the surface. Regardless the new Falleen Linnorms raised here shall pose a more significant challenge to all our enemies. Their pheromones, and resistance to techniques of the force upon the mind will make them a force not to be underestimated. Behold Solus, we witness before us a rare treat indeed. It is a gathering. One of all of Clan Brasganu, the nomad fleet is to join together for the Nar Shadda offensive, it is not often the House Of Dragons meets like this, maybe once every few years at most, they cannot recall the last. This is what I wished to show you, to witness this event for yourself, the full might of what you are part of. To share in our unity. We shall go below shortly, you may help me inspect the improvements and troops before we depart for the meeting to begin en-route back to Naboo. Where all the Sith forces are gathering to rally for the fight ahead. It shall be a glorious moment for the Clan. To show our worthiness before the Fanged God and to the Dark Lady. We cannot afford to fail. Come, a ship awaits. We shall join Krath Inmortos below."

Akheron listened carefully as the Shard, Solus his apprentice explained as best he could, just exactly what happened from his perspective. It interested the With Warrior greatly as each detail was explained, each sensation and what his apprentice saw as well as himself briefly. It appeared that the rumours about the Dark Mother, said to exist alongside the Fanged God in symbiosis was perhaps very real. And if that was the case it eluded to the fact that the Temple Of The Spider also existed. A assassin guild of sorts that served the Sith. He noted how he was drawing, erratic almost for a moment, something he would need to keep a eye on. A smile crept across his face and in the force he somehow knew it was all true. Solus was the key to finding it, he knew that much and so decided to speak. "Very interesting my apprentice, you need not worry, your apprenticeship is not in jeapardy. In fact you are close to it's completion... just a few more steps remain. As for what you have told me, it appears perhaps the rumours are indeed true. And I agree, this is no coincidence...where the Darkness of the force and the Fanged God are involved, it never is. Your description matches similar accounts through the years of instances with this Dark Mother or so they say. They say that if one follows the visions, to the source...and find something called the Temple Of The Spider, great power can be unlocked. Abilities others could only Envy, skills of the Sith Assassin, that are highly specialised. In light of this you have leave to explore it further in your spare time. Inform me of any developments made, we shall explore this mystery together you and I. Perhaps then we might found the truth to what has transpired. Until then, you may meditate until our arrival at Falleen. I wish to show you something once there. Until then, I wish you good luck my apprentice and remember approach your new task with caution, lest we uncover the wrong stone." He soon departed, he would process what he had heard later, for now Falleen awaited. ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Soon enough and they arrived. Exiting hyperspace, Akheron was now sat in his command chair, looking at the world he had once helped to conquer. A world that became his. A world that had become one part of his kingdom, his base of power. Since he had left months ago Falleen had become a hive of activity. Below many Ziggurats designed after those on Korriban bore a mix of both cultures, Falleen and Sith had sprung up. Temples that served as places of worship to the Fanged God and Darkness of the force. Sacrifices were abundant within. In the streets Linnorms, Elite Falleen troops trained by Sith officers and experts from across the galaxy, honed into machines of war patrolled the streets. Indoctrinated into Clan Brasganu as children, these loyal, pheromone possessing and mind trick resistant people were the future Akheron thought. Or one part of it. A way to counter the Jedi. The normal people went about uninterrupted, so long as they behaved, those that didn't were soon brought before what was a court of sorts. One that was weighed in favour of the prosecution. One where the common person rarely won and often resulted in a death sentence for anyone sentenced within. They had no choice but to obey, for the children were at stake.Yet they had a chance at redemption. Inside a grand combat arena, built to test the skills of the Linnorms and weed out the weak. Factories dotted the landscape, production lines of war where everyone was involved in some manner building, modifying etc of guns and ships of various kinds. Building the tools needed for the Linnorms and the Sith in the wars throughout the galaxy. Around the cities, trenches lay and bunkers. Heavy fortified positions built to repel invaders with the deadliest of force. Above various ships dotted the sky, shuttles and starfighters flowed from the surface to above with impunity. Mines and space based defensive installations lined the atmosphere. Only allowed traffic got through. Akheron was hailed instantly and after verification was given access, below a welcome party was prepared. Their commander was home. A escort was sent above to bring the three Sith to the surface. Akheron commed his apprentice. "Come to the command deck, I have something to show you my apprentice, before our descent to the surface. We have arrived."

Akheron gestured next to him as he took the offered seat, bowing in respect before he did so in thanks. "You can sit next to me if you wish, I don't bite." He said almost jokingly, the first time his master had displayed something akin to a joke in humour since they had met. A sign the Shard was beginning to perhaps grow on him. He continued. "I leave it to you to decide if you do. I shall speak regardless. I noticed after my own experience during the Baptism Of Blood, you were not yourself...it was like something else took control of your mind. You spoke backwards and in a kind of maddened state, practically insane. However you also gained certain skills from it, much like myself. In this state a mist appeared now and again even as you slaughtered and purged. I was curious, what did you feel when that happened, your emotions, where your spirit went, that kind of thing. Did you feel in control or were you a passenger to a unknown entity on this journey of sorts. I felt something...I am just trying to be certain. Both that it is gone and you are yourself and to ascertain just what it was you might have seen and experienced. That it was not just a rogue spirit taking advantage of the ritual. A name was mentioned, the Dark Mother. I have heard of it somewhat among the Clan Brasganu assassin's, whispered in ancient scrolls and holocrons..it is a Sith legend. Thought to be nothing but a story, however given what happened... I'm not so sure that is the case, there may be more truth to it than we previously knew. You need not worry, you have done nothing wrong, indeed you have passed yet another test. We both have, it appears the necromancer was true to his word, perhaps we misjudged him. Perhaps not, time will tell now he is soon to be inducted into the Clan. Regardless, the ritual worked in our favour... granting us more power and bringing us even closer to the Darkness, to the Fanged God. Albeit with some unforeseen side effects. You may speak freely, I come as both master and friend. The latter only if you wish it."