Aaris III

[Karys Narat iv-Adas]

Akheron observed silently again. He was for now pleased, his apprentice had started to show signs of the potential and promise he knew lay beneath the sentient crystal's exterior. The Darkness within as gifted by the Fanged God flowed strong, at least until his energy reserve was depleted, however Akheron knew there may be time to somewhat relax on the way to the surface. 

 

He felt the planet long before they entered the system but being in it's presence was something else entirely. All he felt was a deep sense of suffering of Death. Speaking to the Linnorm he replied.

 

 "Do so, let Lord Inmortos know we are here and request for the fleet to resupply, refuel and re-arm. Have his space faring gift prepared to await his command once I personally speak with him. Prepare our escort and have the Linnorms on standby...just in case. There is much we do not know about this necromancer and his domain. Let's be cautious."

 

 Turning to Solus, he spoke as all returned as it once was. Once he was clear, the carcasses were removed and the platforms were gone. A empty room remained. 

 

 "You did well my apprentice, but do not let your rage entirely consume you. This has been the undoing of many Sith. Rage and hate if left to it's own devices, allowed uncontrolled and unchecked would destroy all that you are and wish to become. Your own strength would become your demise. We may draw from Rage but there still a price as with any emotions drawn of the Darkness. Draw too strongly and it will suck you into a endless pit of unstoppable Rage and Anger that would strike not just your enemies down, but those you call ally or friends as well.

 

But that is enough for now. Come, Lord Inmortos awaits below. I am certain we shall plenty of opportunity on the surface to test you further and advance your training. Even still be on your guard, he is a unknown quantity. I am not quite sure if he is to be fully trusted....yet. This is his domain, his powerbase. As such We must be cautious, I do not know what to expect of this...festival, Baptism Of Blood."

 

With that he headed to the shuttles, motioning his apprentice to follow. He made a quick stop by his personal quarters to pick up a unique gift he had crafted for the necromancer, one he was certain he would appreciate and would repay the gift he had been given previously. Continuing on to the shuttle he entered, wondering what just awaited the two below. Although one thing was certain, he could feel a deep unrest about the planet...even now. He would soon see why. 

[Karys Narat iv-Adas]

Akheron eyed the undead lizard men with suspicion, even as they surrounded him, his apprentice and his escort before he even had time to object. He didn't like the fact that these...abominations stood so close. Almost like a pack of rabid, hungry wolves held back only by the alpha. And the unrest he felt in the Force, the rage and anger, the icey chill, did little to change his thoughts on the matter, if anything he was more cautious, holding a hand close to his saber just in case. He distracted himself on the ascension by looking at the citadel of ice and souls.

 

He was sure he could hear wailing from within at some points. It was impression, a feat of Sith Magic he could hardly fathom, and yet strangely familiar, it reminded him of Ziost in his youth long before it's destruction. As the undead muscled lizard man spoke, Akheron simply laughed in his face before he spoke. His defiance evident even in the face of uncertainty.

 

Making a statement of truth.

 

 "I am honoured to be here however....your master should of told you. I am a Sith Warrior. The Lord Of Wrath. I do not beg like some commoner or mewling quim, nor do I ask forgiveness like one. I accept my sins as part of me, I come only because I was asked, nothing more."

 

Letting the words sink in he remained silent for the remainder of the trek to the top, even as he felt the rage from the creature at being berated. He cared little about it, undead as it was. Making it to the top, he had the Linnorms wait below as he motioned Solus follow him into the epicentre of Inmortos power, and to the Lich King himself sat atop his ice throne.

 

Hearing the question, he answered truthfully. Showing a wisdom beyond his years, wisdom born of the rule of his own people.

 

 "Yes, the unrest? I feel it. Like a storm brewing just below the surface. Such is the price of power, of a throne Lord Inmortos. There will always be problems to contend with. Besides. Few know the true cost of eternity until it is too late. Eternal life to some, while it may seem a good idea at the time...soon loses it's appeal. Some would prefer the gutter to the promise of salvation after perhaps decades of the same. Either that or they seek more than they have, they crave what you have yet know it will always be just out of reach. And for that you will be hated, despised. For jealous they become and envious of the power you control. So much so that the hate they have will lead them to break oaths and only ever leads to betrayal. Question is what will you do to answer it when that happens as now. Will you answer the challenge or not?

 

Regardless I have a gift or two that might cheer you up."

 

Akheron proceeded to remove something of a blade, wrapped in leather clothe. A sacrificial blade belonging to the Fanged God and bathed in the blood of the sacrificed to flame burnt alive. Their suffering still lingered upon it. In his other hand was held a datadisc with two holograms of ships schematics.

 

"First a sacrificial blade bathed in the blood of the sacrificed to flame burnt alive for the Fanged God in his honour. The suffering of those that died upon it lingers still. The second gift, something more practical. A ship. Glacadh An Dorchadas. Embrace Of Darkness in the common tongue, a Sion Heavy Escort Carrier/Cruiser and complimentary starfighters in the newly field tested Acklay Class Heavy Interceptors, both of which I had a hand in personally designing based on battlefield experiences in the space arena so to speak. Both saw action above Naboo, you can review the data in this disc along with the schematics at your leisure. 

 

Both are in appreciation of a gift once previously given and to strengthen an any alliances between us if that is your desire. I must say this...Baptism Of Blood has me curious".

Edited February 7, 2022 by Karys Narat iv-Adas

[Karys Narat iv-Adas]

Akheron laughed a little as Solus talked to himself about perhaps one day having a planet to control of his own. His ambitions laid bare. His Envy surging outwards. He spoke as they followed, looking upon the strange structure around them, listening to Inmortos and taking note. Avoiding any soulfrost.

 

 "Perhaps one day you will have such a planet my apprentice. Just as you desire, just as I have Falleen and parts of Korriban. However it takes a great deal more than you know to keep such a thing, there is as always a price to that which you crave...to keep control and keep what you desire takes a toll. And just as Lord Inmortos says...It is a easy thing to just kill, it is simple. To kill for the sake of it is nothing, but to really relish the moment, it is better to do it for a reason, even if known only to yourself or self satisfaction.  And as said, sometimes those you seek to kill require more than simply slaughter. Not that this not enjoyable. True punishment requires many things. As you shall see."

 

 Continuing on the walk, Akheron was in awe at the crypt and the treasures held within. Envy of his own briefly simmered before subsiding. He noted the life story of Inmortos, looking upon each moment that let to who and what he became. Trying to gauge a better understanding of his fellow Sith. To understand the necromancer and just what he wanted, for he knew that the secret likely lied in the clues hidden in the depictions. As with all Sith secrets were usually hidden in plain sight.

 

And then he heard the unusual dialect. It was one he had rarely heard, predating the Sith. Likely Rakatan in wagered. And next he saw the temple, one devoted to the God of these unread lizard folk he had seen about. One devoted to the image and power of Inmortos. And within stood his most loyal followers, devotees to the Lich King and the power of the dead. He could feel their disdain for him and Solus, considered as outsiders.

 

He smiled a little under his mask. Let them hate and fear, he was Sith. Staring at the pool of Blood if it could be called such a thing, he felt drawn to it. Like a moth to a flame, it called offering sweet temptations born of the Darkness. Whispers of the dead called into his mind, offering yet more temptation. But for now he resisted.

 

Listening, Akheron was cautious, resisting and not stepping a foot forward. So this was the reason for his invitation, to be some kind of recruit , a induction. But for what reason and why he wondered. What was the endgame and what would be the price if he submitted.

 

 "Now I see what you meant by Baptism Of Blood. You meant it quite literally...and yet I wonder. If I do As you say, if we both do. What is the price, the cost of submitting to the pool and the dead within, of exposing my flesh, bone and very essence of what I am to such a ritual. And to you. What would become of me."

 

 

 

 

[Karys Narat iv-Adas]

Akheron considered the words, looking into the Darkness of the Force, sensing for deceit. He found none, and something told him as much as the two distrusted the necromancer, this was the correct course to take in serving the Fanged God and the Dark Lady. Nothing ever happened without a reason he had found as experience had taught him. 

 

His apprentice was young, full of defiance. Much like himself once upon a time, fearful of that which he did not know. Both were offered a chance, should they pass the test and ritual of unlocking more of their potential...that much was certain, looking within Akheron knew the price might be worthy of the risk. Besides as a Sith and a Warrior he would not refuse a rare boon such as was given. Even if he did not fully understand the reason for it.

 

He spoke, understanding.

 

"Calm yourself my apprentice, I feel we have nothing to fear. If Lord Inmortos wished us harm, he would of done so already. I can understand your mistrust, the previous experience was painful, but it was one of many such tests as a Sith. This is yet another.  Nothing happens without reason where the Darkness is concerned. You or I may not fully understand the reason why we were brought here, but the Fanged God brought us three together for a reason. Just as I as a Sith Warrior or you as a Assassin serve the Dark Lady and Fanged God by taking life from our enemies on the field of battle in fire or from the shadows, necromancers also serve a purpose. They are the taker or souls, collectors and serve the Fanged God by punishing the enemies of the Sith with eternal servitude or empowering allies such as us, here and now. Helping to unlock our further potential. 

 

Yes there is great risk, but such is the life of a Sith. As much as we might mistrust Lord Inmortos, I trust in the Fanged God and the Darkness. We can either choose to embrace the pain and prove our strength, our power and devotion to the Darkness by stepping into the pool and coming out stronger for it or give in to the fear and mistrust. The Fanged God watches and awaits your choice. 

 

I have made my choice now it for you to make yours my apprentice. This is your next test, a test of both pain, devotion and loyalty. How far are you willing to go to become all you desire. To be a Sith and serve the Darkness and Fanged God. Will you choose to place trust in one you hate and the Darkness....or will you give in to your Envy.

 

In case it is the latter, I offer a new ability to learn, to assist with your transfer to the pool. That of Telekinesis. Similar to a Force Push or Pull except that this ability will allow you to manipulate physical matter, allowing you to touch, grab, hold, and otherwise interact with a target. Even yourself. The ability using the Darkness to lift targets in combat or not. It can also be used to disarm or physically attack opponents, as well as a method of defense for the user or the target. For a sufficiently skilled or powerful practitioner, the size, distance, weight, and mass of the object do not matter. One can possibly lift something as small as a piece of fruit to an X-Wing or be able to affect a target from another room or yourself. Telekinesis also entails applying and defying physical forces without physical contact and from a distance, with the strength and intensity of this force causing the feats performed with it ranging from making small to medium-sized objects float or levitate weightlessly, to slowing or completely halting the motion of moving targets, to crushing targets with the strength and resilience of metal with extreme amounts of pressure. Despite the there is a price. Telekinesis may allow us the ability to manipulate and interact with targets without physical contact and from a variable distance, the precision, accuracy, magnitude, range, and intensity but this is tied to the our concentration, willpower, emotions, senses, and spatial awareness. Therefore, it is a power that can be weakened, causing us to be unable to properly control it. Physical or mental fatigue, stress, or disorientation are side affects of prolonged use. So use it sparingly my apprentice. Now it is up to you to make your choice."

 

With that he was done speaking, stripping as far as his underwear, Akheron revealed his true self. Placing his weapons alongside them. A Tsis Pureblood, a Massassi of crimson red, long thought of as extinct...marked with a lifetime of war, with scars on almost every speck of flesh. That which was not covered in these scars were covered in ornate ritualistic tattoos that gave off a eery glow. Or appeared that way. Some were Tsis in origin while others such as his face and head were markings of the Fanged God. Of Clan Brasganu, branded into the skin. The only metal that remained was his prosthetic arm and leg. Sith Steel, imbued with Sith Alchemy and Magic he rationed they were resistant enough to survive the ritual. 

 

Besides it was something he refused to remove, he still wished to retain some dignity. Making his way down the steps he entered the pool, his crimson skin becoming one with the blood. In the Darkness he focused himself, preparing for whatever came next. Leading by example he hoped it convinced his apprentice.

Edited February 12, 2022 by Karys Narat iv-Adas

[Karys Narat iv-Adas]

Akheron waited for what seemed like to him a eternity yet was only a few minutes when the blood surrounding him took hold. At first there was nothing, just the warmth until that warmth began to feel like it was burning. Like the blood itself had become as acid and was melting his skin, yet this was far from the truth. As the ritual began in earnest, he felt as though on fire...gritting his teeth he fought back against the pain and the hallucinations that soon took hold as what appeared to be a gateway, a Eye Of Chaos opened before them. Threatening to suck them all in. 

 

In the blood as he felt like burning, in his Wrath and Rage Akheron saw hallucinations. Visions that looked and felt all too real, visions of the Fanged God and the Darkness. His body convulsed and sputtered, shaking, shuddering violently in the blood a s it engulfed him into the abyss at least for the moment. The blood enveloped his form like a red blanket as it wrapped around like liquid metal. Bending, breaking and remolding his prosthetic arm and leg, molding new flesh with bone and the imbued metal (Looks like Starkillers spiky arm). He tried to scream but his mouth refused to open. It felt like he was in Chaos again. As if in the realm of the dead. As he suffered, a amalgamation soon became apart of Akheron as the ritual induced blood threatened to eat away at him, binding his prosthetics on both a spiritual and physical level into one as the acidic life forces tried to clamour for passage out of him. Passage he denied them, drawing on the Darkness and all he knew, all his strength and power to not submit.

 

His body raised, caked in blood still engulfing him as he floated, levitating in a ritual trance. His body grew in size, muscles bulged as his eyes shot open. The deepest black, filled with the Darkness of the Force. But he was still in a trance, he spoke in the language of the Tsis, before switching to that of the chants. As more blood engulfed him, his body shot back into the blood bath going under. 

 

It was as this happened he saw a searing bolt of red lightning arc from a void and strike at the blood filled pool. He heard the thunderclap in room erupt in a blinding flash of red even in his trance. The next few hours seemed like minutes as he fought against his own Rage and Wrath. The hallucinations became more vivid and soon Akheron face to face with what he thought to be a depiction of the Fanged God or as close as the mind allowed. In that moment he believed more than ever,  Fanged God, the Darkness was all real.

 

Soon enough and Akheron found the strength and power to will himself free of wherever he was. He controlled his Wrath and Rage. Finally awakening in the empty pool, Akheron opened his eyes properly for the first time since the ritual started. Looking at himself, he felt filled with power. Invigorated even. His Wrath and Rage simmered just below the surface, desiring a outlet. He would soon oblige.

 

Looking upon what had once been prosthetics, Akheron noted the changes. How the imbued Sith steel had warped and moulded with new flesh, bone, muscle and blood to create a amalgamation work of Sith art. Or so he thought. On the tips of the fingers he noted a Starkiller like razor sharp appendage, a hand encased nearly all in imbued Sith metal yet allowed him to stab or slash while his upper arm was flesh blended to the remaining metals. His prosthetic leg was much like his upper arm, flesh and metal. 

 

Testing them briefly, he enjoyed the new movement he had been given. The return of missing flesh upon that arm and leg. And the gift of Rage. He would not forget it, or how his mistrust at least for now had been misplaced. He spoke out, using what remained of one of the lizard folk clothes to wipe the blood from himself. 

 

Speaking he replied to Inmortos.

 

 "So shall it be Lord Inmortos. I believe a apology is in order...I was wrong to mistrust you. I thank you for this mighty gift and the additional side effect of the return of something akin to a real arm and leg again, a return being whole. I am not quite sure what happened but it is a boon. One I look forward to using. If it is a purge you require, you shall have it. Let us burn in the name of the Dark Lady, the Darkness and the Fanged God."

[Karys Narat iv-Adas]

Akheron looked upon Solus, confused by his speech. It was as if possessed and his apprentice no longer had sound mind or body, like a puppet on a string. Something had clearly come through whatever portal they had created during the ritual and snuck in. Or so he thought, they would need to see about remedying that sooner or later.

 

Speaking he answer Inmortos.

 

"It appears so. We will need to fix that sooner, rather than later. He cannot be left in such a state, he has far greater potential than becoming a madman. As to the ships, if you wish command there is no easy way to go about it. You will be required to break them, to bend them to your will and have you earn their trust. There is a way in which we may benefit mutually...you have proven much already and appear to be open to perhaps a new way of looking at things. At the Darkness, perhaps even similar to myself and my apprentice.

 

As such I would be a fool not to make a offer of closer friendship, one that would bind us as brothers even more so than now. I would offer you the chance to join Clan Brasganu, the House Of Dragons. A House more closely connected than some others. As a father Of Dust you would be welcomed as a Lord-Captain, those who are Sith Lords and Masters of great power and the will to burn worlds in the name of the Fanged God and Dark Lady. Who's authority is without question, such as will become your power should you choosse to accept this generous proposal I unto you. This would in turn earn the loyalty of the Linnorms, along with additional benefits.  

 

Chose and become one, Just as a moment ago, and we shall set the galaxy aflame. Starting here."

 

As he waited for an answer, Akheron got dressed, placing his dry robes and all his equipment back in it's rightful place. Last came his mask, again concealing the monster beneath that he had now become. At least other than his eyes and his aura. He noted Solus additional strange movements, as he disappeared to accomplish the task he had been set. One, Akheron approved of, it would be excellent training, a test to see how he handled himself alone and to see if he could control the madness.

Edited February 16, 2022 by Karys Narat iv-Adas

[Karys Narat iv-Adas]

Akheron laughed a little as he spoke. 

 

"Then we shall be on equal footing. For I have walked beyond the veil of death many times, and seen for myself the horrors that await in the realm of Chaos where no spirit ever sleeps. And more so trained since birth in the arts of killing and death, further expanded upon with my education in the Sith. These apprentices will know what it is to know true fear this day, to know what true devotion is.  For as is our motto...Death remembers all."

 

He continued to speak.

 

"As a Lord-Captain of the Clan, I shall make make your entrance official after these proceedings with the Master Of Hides. He shall conduct the ritual oath you must take to swear loyalty to the Fanged God. In the meantime I have transferred temporary authority to you of the ship I previously mentioned. When the ceremony is complete that authority will become permanent as you become one with the nomad fleet. For now you need only contact those aboard whenever you wish and begin the issuing of commands. In the meantime, let us purge together and offer souls to the Fanged God."

 

 

Walking further he soon found the necromancers and others, those who were doomed to a eternity of nothingness. Igniting his lightsaber he began his own path of destruction. His aura of calm became a raging storm in moments as he ended the first of many lives on Aaris III. Focusing in the Darkness, Akheron unleashed his Wrath and newly acquired additional Rage, his eyes turning to black as the monster that always laid just below the surface, caged like a beast was released.

 

Unchained and remorseless. A unmerciful machine of death, the Sith Warrior starting carving into those in front of him. Impaling the first of many lives, he sliced his saber into their gut before slicing upwards leaving a corpse in his wake of death and destruction. His eyes saw another, as some soon panicked, attempting to run much to his disgust, while others stood awestruck at the fury and power of the Sith Warrior, all previous doubt erased. Becoming a hunter, Akheron stalked before using the Force to lift another victim, throwing them like a ragdoll into a icy spike on the wall. Continuing on, corpses begun to be all that remained, as the Sith Lord let nothing stop his purge. One devoted to the Darkness and the Fanged God. 

 

The suffering of the damned was a musical symphony, as Akheron conducted his dance of death and destruction. He would let none escape, all would become worthy sacrifices, the living and the undead. Aaris III would burn. 

 

He wondered if his apprentice faired as well, if he was living up to his potential. As the Assassin he thought he could be for the Sith.

[Karys Narat iv-Adas]

Akheron was relentless, a walking machine of death and destruction that had been unleashed for a single purpose. To see the end to the lizard people that once called Aaris III home and entomb them eternally, their body and souls forever a testament to the power of the Sith and the price of defying them and the will of the Fanged God. And in so doing his own legend would spread throughout the galaxy even more...rumors about what happened to Aaris III would soon go on to frighten young children from their beds at night. A warning of the fate of all those who would defy the Sith and the gifts given to them. Gifts that came with a price, a price they had refused to pay when it came due.

 

He would be the Sith's iron fist, acting as agent and a Wrath filled wraith upon the defilers. As Inmortos spoke, Akheron replied his voice slightly changed, fueled by the Darkness. For he was in the moment, Wrath and Rage intertwined, becoming one. A symbiosis of emotions that directed a unmatched fury upon any in the way, innocent or not. The Sith Warrior knew no remorse, pity or mercy...only adding to the dead. 

 

"It shall be done Lord Inmortos, I have also sent the command authority to you. Temporary command has been give for the ship I gifted and all aboard, you need only contact them to issue the command to join as well. They are bound by ancient law to obey. This world will burn and then become a tomb eternal. For the Sith do not forgive nor do we forget."

 

Moments later and the flagship and various others in the small fleet with Akheron answered the summons. Soon after and several shuttles descended to the surface under heavy armed escort. Shuttles with a purpose. They were destined for the crypt, landing and disembarking the Linnorms surveyed the area before making way to the tower, killing any in the way to their objective with excitement and shouts of glory to the Fanged God. The lizard folk suffered under axe, sword, blaster and fists as the elite Sith trained warriors made little work of the living and undead. They were soon at their destination after carving a path and linking up with Akheron, passing by and killing any he missed as they went below with several crates.

 

Once in the crypt, they ransacked it killing any lizard folk who interrupted or tried stopping them as they hurled angry, rage filled words at the Linnorms who they saw as desecrating the crypt and stealing from their former god. But they paid no mind and swiftly ended the objectors lives, more victims for the Fanged God. Collecting various ancient treasures, scrolls, holocrons and items of interest that the Sith would want safeguarded and removed from the dead world. Soon enough and it was practically empty as each crate was escorted out. 

 

Above the planet, the ships moved in closer as instructed. It was then they begun to rain hell on those below, as the weapons of the fleet aimed their weapons upon the cities and remote villages, anywhere they could. Soon enough and a barrage of laser death descended, adding to the furor of destruction. A Base Delta Zero reduced one city to ash and melted glass in a instant as thousands were extinguished. The deaths and the suffering they endured only served to strengthen and further fuel the Sith Lord, Akheron. As the bigger ships opened fire below, the smaller Acklay Class Heavy Interceptors, a new breed and line of starfighter that had seen successful testing above Naboo, were unleashed from the bellies of the beasts. Like a swarm of angry locusts, they attacked in waves. The first entered and struck at the same city the three Sith were currently occupying, shaking the foundations of several areas and sending rubble everywhere as bombing and strafing runs helped reduce everything to smoldering ash and allow Inmortos to harvest the souls of the damned.

 

Akheron felt the vibrations as he continued the onslaught. The necromancers he was fighting shouted towards him, pointing bony fingers and condemning the three Sith. He simply laughed at them, their threats meaning nothing. This simply angered them more as severla begun to chant unknown languages. Ancient and powerful magic begun to be put at work as several bodies of the dead arose, attempting to grab at the Sith Warrior. Deformed with some missing parts of their face and other extremities, these undead were skeletal, primitive and wielding various clubs, maces and axes of old. They raced towards him with apparent abandon and little care for their own well being.

 

Akheron simply smiled under his mask as he plunged into the very depths of his own pain and trauma, entering the warrior state of the Sundered Heart. In this state, Akheron begun to unleash his inner turmoil in a torrent of powerful and never ending attacks with the intent to overwhelm the enemies in front of him a ceaseless, unending storm. His efforts begun to take form when his hits begun to strike harder and faster and the weightlessness of the lightsaber he was using only further increased his efforts.

 

As the undead horde thought to make a meal of the Sith Warrior, he charged forwards into them. His Rage fuelling his current mind state. He became almost a blur of red, as the lightsaber and his skin molded into one with the fast movements being conducted. He struck at the first victim, slicing straight through the lizard man's primitive shield like it was butter and carving a long burning line to his jaw.

 

Yet he continued, undead as he was. So Akheron instead impaled the undead lizard folk with his new arm appendage and swung him around head first into the floor with a sickening crunch. He followed this by stomping on it's head. under his boot before slicing vertical until he reached the groin, leaving the undead in two separate torso sections. Moving along he noted his apprentice as he passed by, successful in his endeavor.

 

Slicing up more undead, Akheron used the warrior ability to Shatter. Using the Darkness of the Force, Akheron hurled raw blasts of the Force into obliterating any shields or weapons the undead might have been using at the time. He channeled the destructive power of his abilities through the physical weapons they carried, attempting to sunder the armor and leave them vulnerable. He was largely successful, as a rippling wave of energy, cascaded towards them like a tsunami and swept them backwards in a wave, sending lizard folk flying into any wall behind them. Breaking bone, flesh, weapon or shield into pieces. Yet he was far from done, he was barely getting started.

 

Satisfied this particular group had been dealt with, Akheron advanced further forwards into the city. As he did, more shuttles arrived, this time with reinforcements as a battalion of Linnorms exited the various craft and begun to join in the slaughter, cheering as each living or undead member of the lizard species were snuffed out. Their souls damned forever to never live nor truly die. Instead they would suffer the long silence of eternity trapped and driven insane. 

 

A fitting punishment for those who would defy the Sith, or so Akheron thought. He continued on, the Linnorms at his back and ready to add some more to the ever increasing tally of the dead. 

[Karys Narat iv-Adas]

Brutally cleansing the city in the name of the Sith and the Fanged God, Akheron continued his remorseless rampage. All notion of morality lost as he brought death and destruction, burning any souls he encountered into corpses and dust. Eventually the city stood practically empty, the three Sith and the Linnorjs, combined with the might of the fleet had flattened and misshapen the city into a hollow ruin of nothing but pain. Pain that would echo for years to come no doubt, a wound formed of thousands of voices lost to the void as they endured neither death or life. Stuck forever between worlds. 

 

Stepping back towards the tower at the end of the carnage, Akheron ascended into the bitter cold and top of the tower, where he found both his apprentice and Krath Inmortos discussing the next steps in purging the planet of life. They had taken most of the life on the surface either through their own hand or by way of the fleet, all now that remained would be the oceans.

 

It would require a unique solution, however it appeared Inmortos had planned for such a event. A smile crept across his lips as he heard of the task at hand, to create a Sithspawn born of the suffering and pain they had wrought. Speaking as Inmortos took a seat upon the unholy throne of the dead, Akheron added to the discussion before departing to the task before them.

 

"It shall be done, I shall assist. Let us see what the blood of Wrath and Rage may add to the mix and awaken the Destroyers Of Worlds. The Leviathans. Sithspawn born of us all, one that will bring this planet to it's last knee and consume it for eternity."

 

With that he motioned his now somewhat normal apprentice, albeit with madness below the surface and lead him to where they needed to be. He let his apprentice collect the potions and elexirs they would require before speaking.

 

"Open the vials. I shall add a few drops of my blood to each, I suggest you do the same. Channel your Hate, Rage, Suffering, Pain, Envy and Wrath. Let us ensure the world gives birth to our vengeance."

[Karys Narat iv-Adas]

Akheron observed his apprentice movements, he noted the strange movements and primal madness. The mist that surrounded him, clinging like a web. It was something that would need to be remedied less he lose all sense of what he was. Advancing, agreeing with the sentiment, Akheron begun to strike at any lizard folk left. Those that had thought to run to the sea hoping in the waves they might find solace from the death they witnessed.

 

But it would not come. The Sith Warrior advanced like a Wrath filled storm, uttering ancient chants, Akheron beckoned the Sithspawn beast that would be birthed of his, Solus and Inmortos flesh and called it forth from the depths of Chaos. Allowing the vials his apprentice held to fall into the ocean and begin to boil and make it bubble as the beast took form. The water itself was beginning to boil, cooking any wildlife too close to the shore. Within the depths did the Sithspawn beast soon rise, first it's head, multiple eyed and full of hate as it was. And yet the beast did not strike at Solus or Akheron.

 

The beast knew it's masters.

 

Within moments the beast grew, doubling in size until it dwarfed the two. Rising it looked into the tower, eyeballing Inmortos briefly as it looked in before turning to the ocean and beginning untold destruction. It was a true leviathan, a beast of old called forth from hell itself or so it seemed. Walking and wading out, the beast tipped ships of all sizes into the deep, smashing them against the waves and rocks of the shoreline. Eating others whole. Screams and panic ensued as the lizard folk ran to try and save what remained. Even the undead did little to stop it's advance. 

 

Akheron looked out, proud of his creation. Of the creation of the three. It would be a permanent reminder for those who defied the Sith, a symbol to the Fanged God who took lives in his honour. It would be death incarnate to any who would do the Sith wrong on Aaris III. On the dead world it would make a home and become legend. Turning away, Akheron knew their work was done, it was time to leave the world of the dead to it's fate.

 

He motioned that Solus should follow.

[Karys Narat iv-Adas]

Akheron walked into the shuttle, curious still at just what Solus had seen and been possessed by. What had driven him to madness temporarily yet gifted certain knowledge. He had little time for the moment to think more upon it as the shuttle exited the atmosphere and into a waiting hangar bay upon his flagship, where several others also entered.

 

The Linnorms had already begun unloading the various treasures and were carrying them into the storage bays, others were taken deep into the ship and the vaults within designed to hold the most dangerous items. Akheron observed, picking a particular holocron he would study later, on other shuttles a more grim cargo was unloaded, corpses from below that had been gathered per Krath Inmortos request for bodies. They were taken for cold storage and put on ice until needed. Below the beast that had been unleashed was given free reign of the world. 

 

It would be it's kingdom. 

 

Upon Inmortos new ship the Linnorms understood and begrudgingly followed the commands. Inmortos would need to earn their loyalty. The ship joined the others of the small fleet, defensive formations formed as the fleet soon readied itself for departure. Their work was done here. Akheron, pleased at what had been accomplished and the newfound power he was gifted by the ritual, knew where next to go. Just as he was contemplating, a urgent holographic message arrived, informing that a meeting had been called. One of all the Lord-Captain's of Clan Brasganu, which would now include Krath Inmortos. 

 

However first a brief stop was needed at Falleen. His powerbase, or one part of it. For resupply of arms, Linnorms and fuel and to undertake any repairs to any shuttles. Issuing the command, the fleet exited the system. Behind only the dead and a beast born of hate remained.

 

((Onwards to Falleen.))

[Karys Narat iv-Adas]

Soon enough and a speck came into existence above the dead planet. A single shuttle containing the Darkness as encompassed by Darth Akheron, Dictum and the Shard apprentice Solus, Disciple of the Temple of the Spider and their Linnorm pilot. The Darkness swirled around the shuttle like a beast hungry for prey. Akheron observed as the shuttle descended below, directing the pilot to land by the ice covered tower and spire. A place from where he could feel the necromancer's presence. It appeared his assumption was correct.

 

He had indeed been reborn anew here. 

 

As the shuttle landed and the hatch opened, Akheron motioned that the small group should follow. Up now empty steps to the very peak where the necromancer and his throne waited. The pilot too was brought along...his impending demise not yet apparent. With each step, Akheron wondered what the performances would do and say once they arrived. There was much to discuss, and to do. But for now it was the perfect place to train away from unwanted eyes. 

 

He was curious what Dictum would make of it all. He would soon see.

[Karys Narat iv-Adas]

Akheron nodded approvingly at his apprentice words. It appeared he had at least heeded some of the lessons he had been trying to impart upon him and grown. Perhaps his trip to the Temple of the Spider had been productive. He spoke aloud.

 

 "My apprentice Solus, speaks the truth. The Code he spoke of is really the only one that true matters. These words of the Sith Code are for you to decipher alone...and yet these words are more than just simple words, they are a guide that in your own understanding of them shall allow you to truly understand the Darkness and control it. And as my apprentice has stated to help you find your own path among your Sith brethren. For the Sith Code will lead you to unlocking your true potential and to master your Anger, Rage and Wrath. To become the immortal Sith weapon you seek to become. For even as a Sith Warrior there are ways to achieve immortality. For I have died many times myself and arisen again, for a true Sith is strong enough to overcome any obstacle, no matter what it may be.

 

 That said let us see if your true master has indeed returned as I imagine he has. For the necromancer is not so easily destroyed."

 

With that Akheron exited the shuttle, motioning Solus or any Sith to bring the pilot with them. For he would be needed.

Edited January 25, 2023 by Karys Narat iv-Adas

[Karys Narat iv-Adas]

As the quartet of Sith and the Linnorm traversed the many steps to the top of the tower, Akheron decided to answer the younger, potential Warrior's enquiry. He approved of the fact he was asking such questions...for all had merit. And the more asked the better Sith he would become.

 

 "I'm afraid that is not for me to decide. That decision lies alone with your true master, Krath Inmortos, for only he and you shall know when the time is to to begin the process. But mark my words it shall not be long, that said however a lightsaber is not the only weapon that in the hands of the right Sith can inspire fear or respect from your enemies. Some favour the ways of old, forgotten arts like the Sith Sword or a staff imbued with Darkness enough to resist most other weapons and a lightsaber itself. On the subject of a lightsaber perhaps I should clarify a misconception.

 

A lightsaber is a weapon yes, but it is also more than this to a true Sith. A lightsaber is a extension of yourself, of the very Darkness within you. It assists us in accessing and unlocking our abilities in the fury of battle, a Sith and his or her lightsaber are symbiotic in nature. We are one, and this why the Jedi fail, time and again. They do not understand this. That a lightsaber is more than a simple crystal or weapon. There are many ways to make a lightsaber crystal itself, involving a few dangerous rituals for those untrained in how to do so. Methods known only to a true Sith. Although that is not to say there are easier methods such as a synthetic crystal...but these lack the potency of a crystal crafted by your own hand. They lack the same symbiotic relationship with the Darkness. A real crystal must be made one of two ways, two potent yet dangerous rituals in their own right. Either they are bled...that is to say you must take a crystal from a enemy, a Jedi or Imperial Knight and 'bleed ' it. Pouring your negative emotions into the crystal until it bleeds crimson red, all your Hate, Anger, Rage, Wrath and anything else. 

 

Or the second method and I believe personally the best method. But also the most dangerous as my apprentice here can attest too, is by making the crystal yourself. This can only be done in places of potent Darkness, a Dark Nexus in the Force. Such as Korriban and other such places and at the epicentre of the Darkness within the Nexus. In these places with this ritual you must take some of your own blood, fresh and untainted, and that of a creature or enemy you have killed. Along with a bone or tooth of this creature, which shall form your hilt and the electrical components required to power your lightsaber properly. With this you head into such a Nexus and there you must focus yourself in deep meditation, focusing yourself in the Darkness and drawing it in. You must enter a kind of trace like state, a euphoric moment of awakening to some, and in that moment focus all your Rage, Hate, Wrath etc until the blood you took from yourself and your target begins to float...to join together and in that moment crystallize into a physical form. It is a draining method and not easy, not by any stretch...For you will face your demons and the Darkness will test you, you will experience pain and anguish unlike you can ever imagine, but I assure you, no other lightsaber crystal is more potent or more connected to you than this. For it is a personal endeavour, a sacred bond between you and the Darkness that takes place. 

 

As I said the method of a true Sith, at least one willing to prove their dedication to the Darkness.

 

I hope that answers your questions for now."

[Karys Narat iv-Adas]

Akheron sighed as his apprentice lamented his existence. Envious of those organic yet it amused the Sith Master how little the Shard knew about his existence. About the life of those more flesh than he. Akheron spoke as they traversed the bitter cold and the wailing storm. He could hear and see the undead spirits, little more than slaves to Inmortos will and power, floating about with caution. He kept an eye upon them, remembering Ziost.

 

He noted the sky as lightning cracked it open, sporadically at first until a much larger bolt split it wide. In that moment Akheron knew...Inmortos was here alright. The lightning hit the Linnorm taking him over the edge to whatever awaited below, Akheron found the spectacle somewhat amusing...it appeared either the necromancer disliked his offering or was attempting to possess him. He couldn't tell which. He walked onwards and upwards, spreading out his presence in the Darkness, his Wrath and Rage on display to deter any spirit from seeking to possess him. 

 

 "Seize your complaints, you are beginning to try my patience thin. You think you know of helplessness, of horrors untold, you know nothing. In the darkest corners of this universe and Chaos itself the Dark never sleeps. In the void, Darkness waits to consume all. To claim it's due. Or have you forgotten. Death, remembers all."

 

He spoke no more, eventually reaching the top of the tower. Within the throne room, Akheron issued a quick bow before speaking in reply. He recognised the voice, even if he could not see the source just yet.

 

 "Darth Akheron, Lord of Wrath and Rage accepts his greetings. I bring your apprentice Lord Inmortos, and we did have a offering...but he fell on the way up. Although I suspect perhaps that was your doing my brethren. Regardless, you accomplished your objective upon Ziost, the blood price was paid, now we see what happens next, as the Darkness leads us."

 

He motioned Bernon forward to return to his Master.

Edited February 8, 2023 by Karys Narat iv-Adas

[Karys Narat iv-Adas]

Akheron stood in awe initially at the spectacle he witnessed, but then he was beginning to get used to seeing it so it didn't have quite the effect it once had. He nodded, accepting the offer of sanctuary, at least for now. As his apprentice spoke, he found it amusing that he thought Falleen was his. It was Akheron's. He spoke.

 

 "That may be true, but multiple locations with varying terrain and environment is beneficial to our needs. Diversity of this would make for more effective converts to the Clan, ones who could and shall be capable of changing battlefields and other factors. Or do you not see the potential? It pays my apprentice to consider more than what you just see." 

 

As his apprentice stopped talking, Akheron felt the buzzing of his holographic com system. One reserved for emergency situations. He wondered what it was as he answered allowing all to see Sirius, the commander of the flagship standing to attention. The hologram was suffering bouts of static on account of the spirits nearby, Inmortos power and the tower but the group of gathered Sith were able to make most of it out.

 

 "I am sorry for disturbing you my lord. But we have just received emergency protocol Code F4403 Invasion. It came direct from Falleen, I have initiated the failsafe measure and requested additional Sith support per your instructions in the event of this likelihood occurring. As you suspected, the Sovereignty dogs, Jedi puppets and Imperial Knights have found us as eventually you knew they might at last and seek to undo your plans."

 

Akheron considered his options. It appeared for once his apprentice may have been right, he had waited too long to return and now a price would be paid. But he wasn't about to let his apprentice gloat on it. No, he had other ideas in mind. Turning to the group, he spoke.

 

"It looks like my stay was short indeed, I must depart to defend my own base of power. For as you just saw...Fallen is under some kind of attack. My apprentice you were right for once...I should have acted sooner. We must return and secure the secrets we hid there. We must send a message, that the Sith and I personally will not go quietly if they wish to steal what belongs to me. They have awoken my Wrath and invoked the Rage of the Sith. My apprentice your goals on our arrival are to primarily secure all primary and secondary data pertaining to the Clan ship designs...these include those to the flagship...they MUST NOT fall to the enemy, you know the ones, and secure scrolls and holocrons. The secrets of the Clan rituals. Destroy everything on the way out, and rally those loyal to activate the sleeper cells. Those who don't know how to keep quiet...silence them. Use whatever means are at your disposal and any method within your training to achieve your objectives. Use the Darkness and show our enemy it was folly to strike at what is mine. I shall attempt to distract the Jedi or any others I come across. They came for me, I shall oblige them. 

 

Have our Linnorms hide in the labyrinth of caverns and tunnels to conduct guerrilla war upon the population in our stead until we return. We will wear them down over time. Do this and succeed your objectives...and the Darkness and myself may yet find you worthy of the next step in your evolution as a Sith. A prize you have long sort. Lord Dictum, Krath Inmortos. I request volunteers and so you are welcome to join the hunt if it is your wish."

Edited February 17, 2023 by Karys Narat iv-Adas

[Karys Narat iv-Adas]

For 3 days Akheron's spirit, his very soul lingered deep within the darkest pits of the Chaos realm. Within the dimension beyond death where all who served the Darkness were sent. Where the damned souls feasted upon everything. Here he was forced to torment as his soul was ravaged by the souls of all he had dispatched over a long lifetime of bloodshed spilt by his hand.

 

And then the Fanged God feasted, tormenting him further for his failings and for not supplying the souls that were promised from Falleen. For allowing the Light and the Enemy via the Jedi to deal a blow to his designs and the Sith. However, Akheron fought back against the pain and endless suffering, for 3 days he gathered strength as many times before he broke free of his capture. Hoisting himself from the chains that held him and destroying the souls that sought to again ravage him.

 

Only this time it was they that suffered. His Rage and Wrath grew until his strength was back and he was allowed to wander the realm of the dead as he saw fit. Fighting off any damned soul that attempted to destroy him, showing the Fanged God he was far from as weak as some thought. Even despite his failure against the Jedi Sandy Sarna.

 

One he had underestimated, another lesson learnt.

 

It was while wandering, fighting off several damned souls that he heard a familiar voice. Bernon Mrrgwharr, Apprentice to Krath Inmortos. Like those with him, he too insulted and chided the fallen Sith Warrior and Master. Claiming that he was his better and surpassed Akheron. He would show him his folly. That he was far from the weakened, fallen Sith Warrior he thought he was.

 

Bernon Mrrgwharr would learn what it was to suffer. To show him that even despite his failings, he was still potent. That even in Death his will was strong, he would know the true depths of his Rage and Wrath. After dispatching the damned he made his way, crossing the hellscape until he spotted the deviant apprentice. Walking he saw Bernon Mrrgwharr and approached cautiously.

 

Standing opposite he spoke briefly before charging towards his prey. A Hunter hunting a hunter. He would show him Falleen was a temporary setback, that is far from his only play. That even death would not bar him from sending souls to the Fanged God and him from touching the Darkness. Even if it included him.

 

 "Who are you Bernon Mrrgwharr, Apprentice to Krath Inmortos to question me? You are but a speck beneath my fingernails here young one. For even here in suffering, pain and torment I have endured and will continue to endure. For not even this realm of Chaos and the damned will my will be denied, even here I continue to grow. My Rage and Wrath everlasting. And any who would deny me and my worthiness will be destroyed. Fallen was but a temporary setback, you think it was my only design? You know little Bernon Mrrgwharr.

 

In the grand game, Falleen was nothing. Just another pawn. Just like you are to your master. As we all are to the Darkness and the Fanged God. Even in failure I learn as a Sith Warrior must. For only then do we become the stronger, a lesson it appears you have not yet learnt. You will learn what it is to lose, to suffer. Here in oblivion you will be given a lesson, and learn the true depths of my Rage and Wrath. To learn what it is to be a Sith Warrior. A Master of Darkness and a destroyer of worlds."

 

With that the chase was on. Akheron focused, his Wrath and Rage sending him hurtling towards his target. He would show him he was not to be trifled with. That he was worthy, a destroyer of worlds who was not yet done with the galaxy. Or the Jedi. He would show all even in failure he grew the more potent and stronger. As always he had.

 

 

[Karys Narat iv-Adas]

As Akheron gave chase towards the younger Sith Warrior, intent on tearing his soul apart he heard another familiar voice. This time one that seemed to calm his mind and call to his reasoning. Albeit not at first, he glared towards Dictum, his Rage and Wrath wanting to destroy him for thinking he could command him. And then he closed his eyes, and focused. Within that moment his mind settled and found clarity, clear of the fog of twisted reality in the Chaos dimension that was leading him astray. Of pitch black Darkness that threatened to consume any and all it touched, drawing the damned into it's centre.

 

Opening his spectral eyes, black as midnight in their undead, appearance and with Akheron in his temporary, wraith like form, having stopped, he spoke this time calmly. His mind restored.

 

 "I am done. Forgive me young Bernon Mrrgwharr and Lord Dictum. This place has a strange effect on the mind after 3 days...especially after suffering in torment, suffering and pain at the hands of the damned, condemned for my sin of Vengeance. As you said letting my Rage and Wrath get the better of me. No more. You are right in that Falleen is of no consequence, it is as I said. The planet and the people were but a single pawn in my designs upon this galaxy in service of the Sith and by extension the Darkness and Fanged God. One who equally punished me here for my transgressions. It was meant only as a recruitment station. To gain us an edge in more potent Linnorms and Sith, but it is a plan that no longer matters at least for now.

 

 It is indeed a lesson learnt. Perhaps more than one. For I also underestimated my opponent, how much she has grown. I respect her more now for having such strength, but despise her equally for refusing to abandon the Light. Falleen will not be the last she sees of me of that you can be certain. She will not win that war between us. Light and Dark. But that is a future endeavour, one which will require a different approach. For she is cunning. But so am I. 

 

Let us leave this forsaken place for one where I may show the galaxy what it is to truly suffer. For just as I pay for my transgressions, so shall they. I am indebted to you both in retrieving me and Krath Inmortos. I will thank him personally when we escape this place. Consider this a favour owed, one I will keep if asked in the future. Let us return as Chaos, the Darkness and the Fanged God desires of us, as you said".

 

With that he took the offered hand, to whatever happened next. He knew though it was likely going to hurt alot, but he was accustomed to the pain.

Edited April 7, 2023 by Karys Narat iv-Adas

[Karys Narat iv-Adas]

At first Akheron saw nothing but the hellscape  he had been condemned to suffer by Sandy Sarna, his eternal adversary. Gripping hold of the strong hold Dictum held upon his forearm and locking equally in return, as equals would. He felt the strong pull, like a great hurricane wind attempt to pull him, slowly at first until it built into a crescendo and tore his spiritual, wraith like form towards the six great demonic gates that guarded the suffering and sin-laden eternally damned souls. Holding them all within like a great prison or vault.

 

The demonic entities and ancient Gods guarding it jealously. And yet Akheron was freed from within it's confines, in a way that angered the many souls within. As he was torn, so too did several souls follow with gnashing, gluttonous teeth. Looking to punish the ones who dared defile and break the walls of the damned and free a prisoner without permission.

 

As his physical body started to manifest below the boiling blood filled sarcophagus, his soul soon followed. His Rage and Wrath filled spirit joined with it, his mind momentarily consumed by hallucinations as both Chaos and the Real World collided. Moments later and the fog and haze lifted, his eyes opening as life leapt back into his damaged body. His form now complete, sending acidic blood spewing in all directions as his body emptied the crimson tied from his internal organs.

 

As his spirit entered it's host body, he let out a mighty scream unnatural and gluttural, like a beast was speaking from within. He felt all the pain, indeed he began to savour it as he found life again and felt the bitter cold upon his skin when he attempted to lift himself, only to fall out of the sarcophagus instead. His legs still partially suffering the affects of death upon them. Moments later and after a few breaths, taking in the Darkness once more in the open air his body felt ready to try again. In service to the Sith and the Fanged God, he rose his legs now able to hold their own. At least until he got to a bacta tank. He noted however that the metal that been jutting out was gone, even if the pain remained.

 

It was a unusual experience but one he accepted for now. A price for his return. 

 

He noted though that somehow, his prosthetics had also made the transition. Likely a result of the Baptism of Blood he fathomed. A ritual he now saw another value of, for it had assisted his return. Enabled it using the three Sith as a conduit. He also felt a deeper connection to Dictum specifically, as if bound by more than blood. It was akin to a kinship. He would not forget that act. Indeed as a Warrior he had a method to offer equal kinship. Given only to the most respected, he would discuss that a later date with the man and Inmortos. 

 

Looking up, he knew it was not over yet. He could hear the wailing and feel the anger of the enraged undead spirits. Coming to collect what was taken. But he would not go back, not now and not yet. Not so soon after his return and not when his work was not yet finished. With that he let himself focus in the Darkness as he spoke, hoping someone at least had a spare robe for now. And a temporary weapon until he could acquire or remake what was lost to Falleen.

 

Despite the chaos below with him, Akheron could also distantly feel his apprentice presence. He wondered what he would make of his return from the grave. Through a method not natural and yet in ways unknown were connected still to the Fanged God. At least he thought so. For such a ritual was well within the domain of a Father of Dust.

 

He would soon see what would happen next. For he also knew another task remained for the young apprentice. The Shard would need to face his greatest challenge yet before he would be worthy of his due.

 

 "I thank you Krath Inmortos. You truly are a Father of Dust, a God-King of the Damned. I am indebted to you, your apprentice and Lord Dictum. If ever you have need of me, I will find a way to assist you. But for the time being, would anyone happen to have a spare robe? I came out of Chaos a little under dressed for the occasion. And without a weapon to combat those spirits who want me back."

Edited April 13, 2023 by Karys Narat iv-Adas

[Karys Narat iv-Adas]

As Akheron waited he found his request swiftly answered before he was forced to use his fists, thankfully a scenario averted. For that would do little against such enraged wraiths, intent on returning him to the realm of Chaos and  the Fanged God's grasp, even though it was through him and his conduit Krath Inmortos that he had been returned. Not that the undead spirits cared...they sought to return that who they thought a escaped prisoner. 

 

But Akheron would not be returned so easy, not when he was not yet done with the galaxy. 

 

He felt his apprentice, and used his presence as a guide to lead them out of the depths where they stood. Although not before he unleashed his fresh Rage and Wrath upon the wraiths, with the loaned lightsaber  which he appreciated. It would be returned after, for he was accustomed to making his own. His own extension to the Darkness. As the first wraith came with wicked intent, Akheron slashed diagonal, knocking it's clawed hands back before slicing at the head, sending him back to the realm of the dead.

 

He continued, his connection to the Darkness strengthening and returning with each swing as his body and mind recalled all he learnt in life. His Wrath and Rage invigorating him once more and moving him past his pain. The thrill and excitement of the combat, evident upon his face. For in this moment was who he truly was. A destroyer of worlds and dark executioner. He was Sith and these spirits would learn that neither they or the Fanged God would control his fate. Yes he would serve him but would always seek to surpass and break free. For his chains were broken, he would not be contained.

 

Taking out another, he noted Inmortos was still, deathly still. As if the ritual had taken alot out of him, which was understandable. Such rituals of Darkness always took a toll, a price. This was no different. As such, Akheron was forced, despite his naked current state to defend the God-King of Damned from retribution as well as himself. At least until he rose to again.

 

From one of the dispatched, he quickly removed what garments he could, wrapping it around like a roman toga. Hopefully enough to cover and conceal his genitalia. He didn't exactly wish for the trio to see anymore than was necessary. Even as a Sith. He looked to Bernon briefly, to see how the younger Warrior faired in a fight against the damned.

 

 

 

 

[Karys Narat iv-Adas]

Finally the spirits were vanquished, denied of their prize. Akheron defied them and Death itself, yet again to bring forth his Wrath and Rage upon the galaxy, at least eventually. It seemed more had been asked of him, even as he stood in the bitter cold with his makeshift robe and a unnatural fog seemed to gather with a familiar voice carried up on it.

 

Calling upon him, demanding even. Although he could not be demanded, for he would not be ordered about like some hound. He was Sith. Although it did not mean he would not honour the commitment, he would look after the place as a favour nothing more. Even despite the fact he needed to retrieve his ship. Besides he had another matter to attend too here...albeit his designs had been altered slightly by the disappearance of the necromancer but he would adapt. 

 

As they returned to the reality of the real, Akheron felt him. His Apprentice was calling out in the force, the Darkness with his Madness. Threatening to consume them, and yet Akheron resisted as he walked. A unusual sight, for he still stood in the toga he had constructed with a borrowed lightsaber. One he would hold on to, unless asked otherwise and until his own were constructed again. He could feel his apprentice Envy. His Rage was palpable, and his thoughts open.

 

How he viewed what had happened as heretical. How little he knew. 

 

A smile crept across his lip, it would be as was needed. He needed to provoke him, to push him past his current limitations. To crave and tap into the Darkness more, and to face the final test of his current trial. This was the perfect opportunity, although after it would forever change their dynamic. He knew that much. For as with all a price would be paid for his ascension. He wondered what Dictum and Bernon would make of it. Bernon most of all for all would be affected.

 

As they ascended and made it to where his apprentice stood. His expression was plain and devoid of emotion, yet his presence in the Darkness spoke volumes.

 

He spoke.

 

 "My apprentice. Tell me were you successful in your endeavour? Did you secure what was asked and accomplish the task I set. Show me your proof and I will begin the next step."

Edited May 3, 2023 by Karys Narat iv-Adas

[Karys Narat iv-Adas]

Akheron stood in silence even as his apprentice attempted to belittle and insult him. A vain attempt at his own provocation, playing right into the Sith Master's hand...for all was just as he wanted. Even if the means of achieving it were unexpected. And yet he saw how little the Shard still knew about the true nature of the Sith and indeed the Fanged God, he still had much to learn. Especially in relation to a Father of Dust had with Death and how the Baptism of Blood had  exploited that unique connection to assist his resurrection.

 

Yet again would he learn a lesson in that respect. Although he was not a total loss, it seemed he had at least learnt a fundamental truth of the Sith. That to ascend the first steps in Darkness he would need to face his greatest challenge. His greatest rival and challenge his master. But if he wanted to achieve anything he would need to tap and crave the Darkness more than he ever had before. It would require a push, one his master was more than willing to supply.

 

But first a unexpected challenger emerged.  It seemed their disagreement would have to wait. The beast the trio of Akheron, Solus and Krath Inmortos had birthed in months past, had come to kill it's fathers and creator. A leviathan birthed of blood, death, madness, wrath and rage. A being born of Darkness and twisted wills. He too fell down a crevice, and beheld the wicked form of his depraved 'son'. Born in part of his blood. He could feel the beings malice, and despite this felt a sense of pride at what it had become.

 

Far exceeding his expectations of the creature.

 

As Dictum yelled out, he awoke from his brief awe and ran as requested. He was not yet prepared for that particular challenge, and so with his will and the Darkness he sprinted but not before feeling something. Something ancient and yet strong in Darkness. Among the hallways as he ran, he briefly stopped as he felt it. Enthralled momentarily by the feeling. He wasn't sure if Bernon had followed or not but he was drawn to this new Darkness. A little further and he found a door, into where he did not yet know. Only he felt Death behind it and the same ancient malice he felt before only stronger. A familiar malice that seemed to speak of Wrath and Rage eternal. Of being moulded by the Darkness.

 

He was intrigued and sought a way to try and enter. No matter the price.

 

 

[Karys Narat iv-Adas]

Akheron could feel his apprentice intention long before he saw it, his connection to the Darkness and him easily allowing him to know what would happen next. His mind while engulfed in Madness was still easy to read for a Master of Darkness such as he was. As he swiped Akheron dodged with almost minimal effort, his Rage and Wrath threatening to erupt at such a cowardly attack. Or at least that' was how he viewed it, to strike while his back was turned. 

 

If he desired Death he would soon have it. His own. 

 

As he was about to answer the assault, the primordial beast the trio had spawned from the Darkness and profane ritual, took action. Reaching out to try and ensnare his wayward apprentice and this allowing Akheron a momentary reprieve. Heading forwards, Akheron entered the unlatched door, feeling called inside by something. Something ancient and engulfed in Darkness as if moulded by it and Death's very emissary. After entering, Akheron took the precautionary measure of latching the door after he entered to bar his apprentice from reaching him. 

 

From behind the door he spoke, hopefully his apprentice heard it loud and clear.

 

"You would dare strike at me while my back is turned apprentice!? Like a coward. You will have your change apprentice at facing me and settling this dispute...but only when I deem it. Make no mistake, you and I have much to discuss and we will settle this...disagreement. A reckoning is coming mark my words but not yet."

 

At least not until he deemed it. Looking around he moved anything not of value and used it to block the door just in case he opened it. Stacking items up until the door was entirely obscured and securing them via a Tetris like configuration with the Darkness at his command. Hoping that would do it for now, he looked around. It appeared to be some kind of storage facility or armoury. He noted the many obscure and unusual items, most were of no interest at all, while others only vaguely peaked his interest.

 

Science was never his forte. 

 

Eventually he draw closer to the source of what he felt. Heading deeper into the room, Akheron descended down a single flight of stairs to a lower level of the facility. Down below, after moving along a dimly lit hallway, there at the end he finally saw what he had felt even as whispers of the Darkness warned of the dangers of approaching it. 

 

But approach he did, with caution. 

 

Slowly at first, holding the loaned lightsaber Dictum had gifted him close to hand. Within the dark of the room and dim light, he saw at the end of the hallway open up to a larger area. Within he saw it. A single grand pedestal, surrounded by blue flame lit torches, marked with ancient text and seemingly glowing. Approaching the pedestal, still with caution he looked upon it. Drawn to it.

 

Stepping closer, he looked and observed. There up in it sat a most unusual looking armour set. 

 

It was a mix of loose plate and mail, and included a face concealing mask. A preference he liked. He could feel the armour, cursed as it was with the profane magic of the Sith. He could feel it trying to leach at his soul, but found only resistance and a unfathomable strength it could not break. A strength born of Darkness. Picking it up, he could feel it stronger now and could see the markings. What he saw surprised him.

 

There upon it in ancient Sith language, was his name inscribed. It then became clear why he had felt it and it's purpose. This was all the doing of the necromancer, of that he was certain. Even if Death he aided Akheron, a fact he would not forget. It was a worthy gift, and he quickly set about replacing the rags he had been wearing. Soon enough and he looked the part of the Sith Warrior he was. Fully encased in armour.

 

Next to wear once it has been, he noted another item of interest. A lightsaber he recognised as belonging to Inmortos himself. He felt something urge him to pick it up, even as fresh blood dropped from it. Yet he wondered how the lightsaber came to be here. Last he recalled Bernon had been holding onto it. Another mystery soon to be solved.

 

Satisfied, Akheron looked around. Deciding to use the opportunity to find components for his new lightsaber when he constructed it. He quickly found them, scattered about and pocketed them for later. 

 

He now felt complete and so went back up. From there he would approach the door and set the challenge to his apprentice. If he wanted his life he would force him to do it in a proper way. The traditional way of the Sith to settle such a dispute. 

 

Listening to see if Solus remained, he called out.

 

 "I will open the door, but I expect no resistance. I wish to discuss a way to resolve our...dispute in a way worthy of a Sith Master and the Darkness. A way I think you will enjoy. You have my word you will not be harmed while we discuss it, I expect the same courtesy, you owe me that at least."

Edited May 22, 2023 by Karys Narat iv-Adas

[Karys Narat iv-Adas]

Akheron heard his apprentice outside, talking to himself again and throwing another insulting accusation. Accusing of heresy, and yet Akheron knew he knew so little still. He would soon learn his error and the cost of throwing such accusations about without knowing the context of the events. How he would suffer but with any luck in his suffering and defeat learn what it was to truly be a Sith. That he would be reminded of the philosophy they followed and that by defying Death and the denying the Fanged God his soul, Akheron was following the Code.

 

By breaking another chain. A fact the Fanged God would be impressed by and acknowledge, for it had not been his true Death. That time had not yet come and only then would the Fanged God get his due. Not before. Opening the door, with caution, Akheron stood defiant and fully armoured before his wayward apprentice.

 

 "At least you see some reason, despite your unfounded accusations. You still know so little...for it was through the Baptism of Blood that I live again, a bonus of the ritual you might say. A side effect you too share should you fall. Besides, have you forgotten the unique role the Father of Dust plays? What before I told you? Have you forgotten what it means to be Sith? That we must seek to break all our chains. Death is just another chain broken, one I have done so may times. The Fanged God understands this even if you cannot. 

 

The Fanged God would be impressed I have broken such a chain and denied him, at least for now. For the time of final Death is not yet due, only then will he claim my soul and not before. As such no heresy is committed as much as you may in your maddening mind may believe it. But since you insist on carrying out this charade...I offer this."

 

 Pausing a moment, Akheron looked beneath his mask about into the very air itself. As he spoke, it was as if a declaration to the Darkness had been called, for he put in motion events that could now not be undone. A inevitable consequence of all that lead them to this moment.

 

 "You are correct in that if you wish to advance in Darkness you must defeat me. A trial by fire, a final test. At least the only one that matters before becoming a Master of Darkness. I offer the chance to ascend and settle our dispute through a manner traditional to our ways. I hereby declare and will the Darkness, and any soul within to bare witness to this statement. I challenge you in my capacity as your Master and as a Sith to the ancient rite of Kaggath. A rite you cannot deny less incurring heavy penalties from the Darkness and the Fanged God. A rite long used to settle such disputes but rarely used. 

 

If you are unaware of what it is allow me to explain. The rite of Kaggath is one part duel, one part large-scale dejarik-match, and pits Sith against Sith unto humiliation and death. As the challenger I can set the arena, in this case I choose the frozen wastelands of this planet. You shall have no choice but to employ all your skills in a attempt to try and to outwit and outmaneuver myself as your opponent in an attempt to defeat me. Per the rules this must be fought without any kind of outside help, in a direct confrontation. The breach of any rule of the rite will be enforced by execution of any offender, the same applies to any attempts to cheat...strictly enforced by any other Sith not involved in this Kaggath. The Kaggath will reach a conclusion when one side has defeated the other or surrendered, with the triumphant Sith choosing whether to terminate or let your opponent live with the weight of humiliation. To decline is to accept defeat. 

 

Do you accept the challenge or accept your current fate? Know that this is the point of no return, after tonight our dynamic changes...forever. For we shall use this Kaggath to see if you are ready for the next stage. To see if the Darkness recognises you as ready. If you accept I will allow you time to prepare and make way o the wasteland. Beyond that your on your own."

 

Akheron awaited an answer, knowing he had no choice really but to accept. He felt the shift in the Darkness around them, as the Darkness itself accepted the rite and recognised the challenge.

[Karys Narat iv-Adas]

Akheron listened to his wayward apprentice as if he were to a petulant child. How he mocked, belittled and showed his betters such disrespect. And in turn mocked powers beyond his comprehension. The arrogance of youth and inexperience on full display. For in his arrogance he believed he was already superior and free of his chains when he had barely tapped his true potential. He would soon learn how very wrong he was, that he was not quite as transcendent as he believed in his Madness. 

 

For Akheron saw him for what he was. Blinded and consumed by the very Madness he had sought to control. 

 

He would show him just how much more he had to learn. If he wished for transcendence he would have to earn it, he would not make it easy. He would beg for mercy before the end or see the truth he had been trying to show him. One way or another. Akheron listened as the spectre of Inmortos appeared, making Akheron's declaration holy rite in the face of the Darkness and the Fanged God. For he spoke truth. They were now bound not just in blood but spiritually to carry out the Kaggath.

 

For the Darkness recoiled and answered the call, as even the great beast lurking nearby took notice. Stopping it's assault momentarily. 

 

As Solus struck the low baring wall, attempting to crush the Sith Warrior within, Akheron sensed it. His own Darkness alerting him to the fact, and so he acted on instinct. Focusing his Rage and Wrath he stretched out a hand to hold back the tide of rock and debris threatening to encase the Sith. And with Telekinesis he removed those blocking his escape, just enough so he could fit. Squeezing through, he exited along the hallway he had previously traversed.

 

Lightsaber ablaze with crimson to light the path and aid him in teaching his apprentice a lesson of Rage and Wrath. His. And how he would learn. For in his futile attempt at defiance he knew not what he now faced. This was not the Master he knew, but a beast on the hunt. A destroyer set loose to burn and purge his soul of the arrogance he had shown. To show the price of his contempt and hubris, to show him how the Darkness favoured only the strongest.

 

And to conquer Death and defy the Fanged God his soul was to be strong. To be free of another chain. To show him what was possible when you truly let yourself be at one with the Darkness. For even in Death, Akheron had grown stronger. He could feel Solus ahead of him, inside his ship. Yet the Shard had forgotten critical fact. He had taught him everything he knew, he was as a open book. However he did hope he had grown.

 

For even in his righteous Anger he felt Pride at what his apprentice was attempting to do. To try and accomplish what he must to ascend and gain his Lordship. To be recognised by the Darkness for what he was. Just as once he had, long ago now. A price was paid, just as now. 

 

Like a great hunter, he stalked his prey. Eyes narrowed as he advanced towards the meeting spot, only the crimson of the loaned blade lightning his way in the dark and bitter cold of the raging storm. He acknowledged it, and felt the return of the necromancer. But kept his focus fixed upon his current objective. And in the gloom he spotted him. 

 

The Mad one. His apprentice. 

 

Awaiting to be taught a new lesson. He knew there would be traps, he expected as much for his opponent was an Assassin, lacking of honour and the will to fight face to face, unless they could help it. To strike from the shadows, instead of the front. To not see the look in the enemies eyes as they perished, the greatest of all fruits to bare. At least that's how he saw it. For to savour the last look was to see the soul as it descended to feed the Fanged God and the Darkness. And Akheron relished it as much as any Sith Warrior. 

 

Would he see such a look upon his apprentice should he perish, he wondered. He would soon see.

 

Lightsaber in hand, he approached cautiously, while his other held back the Darkness. Ready to uncoil like a snake at a moment's notice.

 

He spoke out in rebuttal.

 

 "It is you who shall be undone, my wayward apprentice. Let me show you another lesson, and show you the price of such disrespect. For you insult powers beyond your comprehension in your mockery. In your Madness you have been consumed, in the arrogance of youth and inexperience. Face my Wrath, my Rage and know the true power of the Darkness. Let me show you what it is to be a Master of Darkness, a emissary of the Fanged God. If you want me for your prize, come earn it. Come play with the beast within and become the hunters prey of the destroyer of worlds. Let the Kaggath begin."

 

With that he readied himself for whatever happened next.  

 

(First official Sith Lord final test/duel Kaggath post is for you Solus, good luck.))

Edited May 28, 2023 by Karys Narat iv-Adas

[Karys Narat iv-Adas]

Akheron returned another rebuttal.

 

 "We shall see, my wayward and consumed apprentice. Show me what you really are, for with me you shall know no mercy within." 

 

Akheron could feel his apprentice. His hatred, rage. His Envy and Madness pulsating like a great drum within the Darkness, and within that same madness he could see how he had failed to heed his most important lesson. To not allow yourself to be drawn so deep as to completely lose who you were.and be consumed by the very Darkness he had sought to control. And he had lost control, that much was now evident. 

 

Like a young pup he had lost his way and it was up to his master to lead him from going astray. And he would teach him, in the most painful and humiliating way imaginable. He would educate him in the matters of loss and pain, in what it was to be a Sith. To break all chains. 

 

The Sith Warrior and Master recalled fresh lessons learnt from his recent loss upon Falleen to the Jedi. He would not advance and follow his enemy, no instead he would draw them into his own trap. As his apprentice attempted to blind him, Akheron reacted quickly, his experience shining through like a beacon, honed senses on a razor sharp edge, poised to strike down any who opposed him. With his coiled hand, he stretched forth with his Rage and to unleash his own wave of Darkness.

 

His mind was numb to all but the cold. No emotions were on display, only a heartless calculus and cold objectivity. A place where compassion or the light feared to tread. This was the state of the Cold Mind. Solus movements became obstacles to overcome and nothing more. 

 

As his wayward apprentice and opponent jumped onto the top of the ship, he let loose. Wave after wave of pure blasts born of his internal Darkness ruptured forwards, lifting snow, ice, ash and metal, meant with one purpose. To obliterate and destroy anything in it's chosen path, to crumble anything not bolted down to the ground as the Sith Warrior attempted to Shatter the land and ship. And hopefully the one on top of it.

 

This was a sight unseen by his wayward apprentice previously. A deadly predator, a Hunter seeking his prey.

 

Behind this wall of righteous retribution, Akheron followed. Using the attempt as a mere distraction, a way to get in close and slice at his enemy. With the Speed of the Darkness he advanced, dodged and darted. Drawing ever closer, moving through what little of the ship remained,  until he was close enough that he attempted to slice horizontally across his torso before following with another diagonal from hip to neck and head.

 

(( 1 ))

 

((Used the Sith Warrior technique Shatter, followed by Force Speed and a double hit combination at his torso via horizontal slice and a diagonal at the neck/head area.))

Edited May 30, 2023 by Karys Narat iv-Adas

[Karys Narat iv-Adas]

Akheron laughed almost as if to mock his opponent and as if he were simply toying with his apprentice, as he struck at the metal attempting to slice him apart. Or at least maim him, for he held no intention to kill his wayward apprentice, only to make him suffer. To humiliate and humble him in the face of the Darkness and prove how wrong he was.

 

He would bleed the arrogance from him. With each strike he drew closer to his objective, forcing Solus backwards and showing how much of a gap of knowledge there was. Showing him that to underestimate a Sith Warrior was to invite doom upon yourself. He was however impressed by his tenacity and determination under such circumstances, even despite the inevitable fate that would await him should he fail. It was as the final strike nearly cleaved him in two that the hallucination took hold.

 

Albeit not straight away. For the Master of Darkness was well versed in suffering from illusions, hallucinations and all manner of tricks by the many that had tried and failed in his lifetime to try and break his mind. All had failed. All had suffered in torment and had their souls fed to the Fanged God and the Darkness. 

 

As the illusion of Tear created by Solus struck at his back, Akheron reacted. Twisting around he struck at it, but after finding no purchase his eyes narrowed as his mind started to adjust, even as the intensity of the Madness of hallucination clawed at his mind like a rake, trying to break his concentration and consume him with the image of Tear, mutated and grotesque, driven by insanity to try and devour. 

 

As he tried to strike again, the beast vanished as quickly as it had arrived. Akheron observed and looked about for his real target, for Solus. But found he had used the moment to escape his grasp. At least temporarily. He had to give him credit for the trick, a smile gripped his lip momentarily before his Rage and Wrath returned. 

 

Focusing his inner Darkness outwards, he attempted to locate his wayward apprentice. And then he found him, his aura in the Darkness, a Madness driven beacon of shadow and hate. As he cautiously approached he saw the message flickering out, listening he took note. So it was as he suspected, Korriban had fallen like the rest, at least if the recording was to be believed. After All it could just be another trick by his apprentice. Another attempt to draw him in. Whatever the case, he filed the information for later. Now was not the time to consider Korriban. Not right now, in the moment. He grew more angered, his hate roiled out in the Darkness. 

 

His apprentice thought it would distract him, instead it only made his Rage and Wrath intensify. 

 

Although he could not see his apprentice, he could feel him. And that was enough, he would know what true suffering was, what it was to be a destroyer. A hunter. A Sith.

 

 "Impressive apprentice, but you cannot hide forever."

 

He called out as he ran forwards, zig sagging before jumping up into the air, attempting to land behind the remains that his opponent was now crouched behind. Plunging the blade of the lightsaber into ground ground he called forth the Darkness to shatter the very earth beneath Solus feet and consume him within as the ground ruptured and split open underneath like a earthquake seeking to devour him. While he doubted it would kill him, it would divert attention.

 

Or at least that was the intention. A technique used for a simple purpose, to interfere with his footing. A setup. For it was to allow for another strike far more deadly. 

 

Advancing, Akheron struck at his apprentice again. This time delivering a un-merciful barrage of blow after blow, with each additional attempt building upon the other intensity. Each was more heavy than the last as he swung and attempted to cut his apprentice apart, like a Sawblade, he struck, his Rage and Wrath growing, adding to his continued frustration and acting like a self sustaining loop of hate. All aimed at his apprentice.

 

((2))

 

((Initially fell for the Tear hallucination from the Ritual of the Wyyrlok. Defended against the illusion, and used a Tremor Impact in the Warrior guide. This was followed by a Sawblade Strike also in the guide.))

[Karys Narat iv-Adas]

Akheron observed with the acute eyes of a hawk, locking onto his prey. Another smile gripped the hunter's lip as the ground toiled and cracked sending a wave of dirt and debris towards Solus, although he had somehow managed to survive and now laid in a large crater where once was snow and ice mixed with ash. Stuck under what remained of the ship from his previous assault.

 

Having failed to kill him, his anger grew further into the conductive loop, making his strikes even heavier. If not for his effort of throwing a piece of metal at his master, the wayward apprentice would of perished there and then. Instead he was given a slight reprieve. Having to adjust his tactics, Akheron moved his Rage and Wrath in the Darkness to Push the metal plate towards his apprentice, the forces exerted, adding to the plates own as he saw him leap towards him. 

 

In a last valiant effort to end his master. It was Akheron's attempt at knocking both the lightsaber or him out of the air, and bring either him or both to the ground. To his arena, his surgery. For who was he but not a surgeon upon the battlefield, and all were his patients ripe for the picking. A place of Death. 

 

Following this, Akheron sped forwards his speed dwarfing his apprentice as he put almost everything into it, as he ran at a Rapacious Pursuit. A backup just in case. Hoping to get ahead of the wayward apprentice. It was time to end the charade and bring his humiliation to it's conclusion. As his apprentice stretched out his hand, Akheron attempted to remove it and the arm with the loaned lightsaber as he drew closer. In one piece or two, it didn't matter to him. Carving a path diagonally upwards where he thought the arm would be next.

 

For close quarters was his speciality and he would get as close as he could to inflict the pain he desired to bring upon his prey. 

 

The final crescrendo would be a series of short ranged telekinetic grapples or Chwit’Jen’Itsu. Ones that utilised attacking with rapid joint hyperextension and lightning fast throws aimed at disrupting his opponent. And Akheron knew his apprentice was vulnerable. Perhaps enough to enact the technique. He would soon see. For if a success he would smash his apprentice into the ground and in that way humiliate him. As he was left for dead.

 

 

((3 - Good show Solus, really enjoyed it. Let's see if you did enough to pass the test. ))

 

((Akheron has attempted to defend against the metal plate by launching it back at Solus in a attempt to knock either him, the lightsaber or both out of the air with a powerful Force Push. Followed this up by use of the Rapacious Pursuit technique within the Warrior guide and a slice at the scomp link/arm followed by a final attempt at the technique of Chwit’Jen’Itsu also within the same guide hoping to overwhelm him with the speed of the technique.))

Edited June 3, 2023 by Karys Narat iv-Adas

[Karys Narat iv-Adas]

A smile gripped Akheron lip as the lightsaber cut through the arm, melting metal and separating his apprentice arm from his body. He knew then that victory was more or less assured, however it didn't go entirely to plan. He found himself flung backwards, as the wave of Darkness spread and coated the area in debris, ash and snow. Catering a area already torn apart by the recent battle and many more in the past.

 

And yet Akheron stood like a great beast, immovable as a statue as ice formed about him. Transfixing him to the spot at least temporarily. Another ability of the Sith Warrior that the had to make use of. At least for now. When the storm abated, he allowed the ice to melt from the heat of He lightsaber he held. Observing the area and sensing outwards he located his apprentice. Or as had been proven, despite his misgivings....that he was a apprentice no longer. For the battle had proven he was ready.

 

The Darkness and the Fanged God had bore witness to the change, the shift in power. How he had grown. And Akheron took notice.

 

And so he did his official duty. Even despite it all he felt Pride that his apprentice had learnt this much at least and become stronger as he had wanted. It shone like a beacon in the Darkness. Followed by hints of now subsiding Rage and Wrath.

 

Approaching the fallen Shard, he outstretched the lightsaber towards him. This time not in a aggressive manner.

 

 "The battle is done. We have both done what needed to be done, and settled this, the Kaggath is ended and as such so is our feud...for now. I trust you to remember that Solus. The Darkness and the Fanged God has deemed we both live. I am impressed you managed to live his long, I underestimated you. A mistake I shall not make again. I have taken notice, you are not the Shard I once knew. you have grown, that much is certain regardless of what happened and will happen yet. You have grown stronger, enough the Darkness has taken note and empowered you beyond your previous limitations. Can you not feel the change, a shift? How you are closer to the Darkness now than ever You were. For now you see this needed to be done. You have passed your next test.

 

For this I am proud of you. As your Master. Yet need these words of caution, you may have broken another chain but in so doing you have gained another, the cycle continues. The price for your next step in ascendance, as once I and many others have paid. Such is the way of the Sith. Now...kneel, apprentice. I shall not ask again."

 

He waited, albeit cautiously. He didn't know how he would react.

Edited June 14, 2023 by Karys Narat iv-Adas

[Karys Narat iv-Adas]

Akheron looked with no ounce of sympathy or remorse as Solus held his arm and wretched about in pain. Indeed, it enthralled him...the pain of his former opponent, and feelings that the Shard felt, like a sweet nectar yet he held back from tasting the honey. Instead he allowed hips apprentice briefly to suffer and know the full weight and price of his actions. He listened as he screamed out and his Madness threatened to consume him into the abyss.

 

He would know that his actions had consequences and this was one of them. One of many more to come.

 

As Inmortos appeared Akheron acknowledged him, before facing his wayward ward. He would do his official duty as a Sith, in the traditional manner and name Solus a apprentice no longer. He would become a Lord, for in regards to the Code and the Sith philosophy he had remained true. In so doing he knew Solus journey had just began properly, now he would take on additional responsibility, such as a apprentice of his own if he so chose and building his own base of power. Of influence. This on top of the fact his new position would bring new enemies, each more hungry than the last for his position and envious of him. Just as he was envious. In that at least, Akheron knew he would learn valuable lessons he could not teach.

 

He would go out now and seek out his own knowledge and power. And gain experience as well as hopefully mature from the arrogance of youth displayed to one more enlightened to the workings of the Fanged God and the Darkness. He would soon see.

 

He addressed Solus using his own full titles and the his apprentice own. As was traditional.

 

 "Apprentice Solus, in the ways of the Sith you have down no wrong. You have remained true to the Code and our philosophy and so as a result the Darkness has seen fit you ascend the next step. And as I said gain another chain even as you cast your current one aside. I Darth Akheron, Lord of Rage and Wrath, Lord-Captain of Clan Brasganu, House of Dragons do recognise and acknowledge your power in the Darkness.

 

You Solus The Ascended, the Dragon of Clan Brasganu  are a Apprentice no longer. I do in the traditions of the Sith and with Krath Inmortos, the Darkness and the Fanged God as witness name you with that which you shall be known by all others among the Sith. A name which will hold great weight both inside the Order and without for better or worse. That is for you to decide however. 

 

No longer shall you be known as Solus for that was your former self. Arise now and be known as...Darth Aeon a Lord of the Sith, Lord of Envy and infinite Madness. For the is what it means, to be infinite, to be endless in Madness. Never again will your name be known as Solus, a name to be known only to your most trusted allies among the Sith and the one who trained you. For you are reborn anew. The Sith are now apart of you, as you are apart of us. Now and forever. 

 

Now you are no longer bound to me. But as a Lord of the Sith certain actions will be expected of you, additional duties to aid the Order as a whole. You will be expected to train a apprentice of your own one day, to build our ranks and to build your own base of power...of influence just as we have. We care not where. And you will need to seek out knowledge and power on your own, to increase your abilities in the Darkness on your own for my duty is done. You will journey in a kind of self imposed exile, and wash away the arrogance of your youth as you gain from this the experience and knowledge to put today's events into a better perspective perhaps and arise even stronger if you do not break on the journey. To work towards the final step of ascendance. 

 

Such is our way. The way of the Sith. Rise Darth Aeon, and take your place among your brethren."

 

He allowed him to rise but continued to speak after he had arisen.

 

"Allow me to be perfectly clear and honest with you. I will be frank. You are far from out of the woods just yet, Lord Aeon for you may well have jeopardised your advancement among the Clan by conducting this series of events. And delayed your ascendance to Lord-Captain as a result thereof. For in your actions against me and in insulting your betters among the Clan, two Lord-Captain's and spouting blasphemous thoughts about matters of which you know very little to your SUPERIORS, you defy clan law. And must be punished in accordance with those laws. The punishment is left up to us both and can be slightly less, fatal if we deem it so. So Lord Inmortos? What do you think? Can this welp be salvaged? Can he yet be a Lord-Captain given time. 

 

What punishment would this merit? In our capacity what would you suggest to remedy this strange series of events that have occurred."

 

He waited for a reply. For this was not just his decision, it would not be a decision taken lightly and would carry great weight among the Clan for better or worse.

Edited June 16, 2023 by Karys Narat iv-Adas