amid the dust of past conquest (open to observers)

[Leto]

Raeg thought that most of the others probably believed him to have passed out. Of course, Netellus knew better. He heard Netellus speak. Yes, indeed Netellus was one to be trusted. His honesty was unquestionable. How stupid it had been of Raeg to make an enemy of him. Or maybe he was just not a friend? Well, that was not a concern. Not one suitable at the moment, at least. But what would Novus' verdict be?

"I call upon those gathered as witnesses. It is my judgement that Raeg Vashin has displayed skill enough with the Force to be named Initiate among us." Raeg was surprised. He had thought that he would be considered a dager, and thus killied while he was still lying down. He was really surprised. How delightful. The Arkanian woman was now his master. And from what he had seen, she was worthy of his servitude. Yes, he would indeed do her bidding.

"This is not open for debate." Of course. If the Miraluka had a saying in this, Raeg would have been gunned down back in the office. He was wild, savage and bloodthirsty. Almost the exact opposite, who measured the worth of each life within minutes. Of course, he was often wrong to begin with, and he had also been it here. Shard was a skilled Sith and a dangerous enemy. He would need to prove himself much here.

"Vashin, the quartermaster will sort you out." He was about to answer Novus, when she continued her speech telepathically. I would look to your back, if I were you. You have made some enduring enemies in the Rilan and Miraluka, I suspect. Raeg was smiling inside. Overall, the Sith had proven much softer than he had expected. But also much more powerful. They were not to be trifled with. Especially not the ones he had seen. Raeg used the Force to lift his broken body. I thank you for the offer, but I will transport myself to the medical bay. As for your warning... Yes. You are right. It seems that I have some proving myself to do. As he floated down the arena's stairs, he suddenly felt his whole body aching again. There was more to these people than met the eye.

[Cirith An'Gol]

Xerron scowled beneath the mask that covered half his face, his eyes flaring crimpson as anger flashed up within him briefly. There was no sense of any deception from Shard and though the blonde Miraluka might've been psychologically unstable, his power in the force was something Xerron had learned not to question. He threw his feelings deeper into himself and smothered the embers in his soul. So this Falleen has killed a number of us. How truly pathetic. I might have at one time done the same, in some foolish idea that it would prove me strong but, not now. Not while our numbers are so low. This one I had better watch closely, his mind attacks are something that I can't fully defend against yet Xerron thought to himself as he looked back to the Falleen and eyed him closely as he lay on the ground where he'd fallen as the Epicanthrix...Vasari was it? spoke.

Suprise etched Xerron's face as Lady Novus declared him acceptable and accepted into the Sith Order. I sure wouldn't have let him into the order, but, it's done now, no use stirring up trouble. I hope the next match is more.....exillerating and fruitful Xerron thought looking to the Epicanthrix, Vasari, and smiling, knowing full well he'd gone easy on him. Oh yes, no killing blows, what a drag Xerron reminded himself as he leaned against the pillar again and crossed his arms, letting his black cloak envelop him again and render him almost invisible as the sun began elongating the shadows it cast. He decided to get the facts straight and looked at Vasari, the Epicanthrix. Closing his eyes briefly he searched out his signature in the force. You fought well my friend. Perhaps one day we might sparr together, I would so enjoy that. Forgive me but, that deformed Falleen, Raeg Vashin, is it true he murdered many upon his arrival for nothing other than show? I am told you witnessed the whole thing Xerron sent to Vasari in a force message

Xerron eyed the Falleen, Raeg Vashin, as he lifted himself off the ground and floated away.
The fact that the deformed creature was in fact worse than he himself had been disgusted him to no end. He shook these thoughts from his mind, knowing full well that Novus and the others could be searching the crowd's minds and that such thoughts might bring him trouble. After all the Falleen had shown skill in using the force, so, there really was no reason for him not to be accepted. Slowly Xerron rested his arms on his belt and fingered the two lightsaber hilts there, drawing comfort from their presence and mentally preparing himself in case he was called down to the arena. Xerron smiled beneath the hoods and mask Now wouldn't that be interesting, he knew the chances of him being called down were slim, amidst so many of the other Dark Jedi in the crowd with varying and no doubt stronger abilities but, he dared to hope within himself. Xerron didn't care if he was beaten, he wouldn't be killed as long as he showed some skill in the force. Atleast if I was beaten I'd have the chance to strengthen myself in that particular area the shrouded Dark Jedi reasoned within himself as he looked to Lady Novus, eager to hear her next words and watch the next match.

[Casual]

As the duel concluded, Jarzec considered all he had seen here. He evaluated it and took it in, allowing himself to understand who these people were, what they valued and what each persons goals seemed to be. There was an underlying factor of unity unprecidented in previous Sith factions and attempts. He was admitantly excited to see this, but not overly. He could really come to love this place. He had also gotten the chance to witness this "Shard."

He must be the wild and crazy man who had the dream of starting the Dominion. Shard's Dominion. It was somewhat of a selfish thought, but fromt he looks of things, the man had the power to back it up. Working under such a group would be something to look forward to indeed. He would save his evaluations of the duel, however, until he was back under the company of Visari. He had his own thoughts, but much of what went on here was steeped in the unseen and unspoken. True, there had been an immense display of power and control over the Force, but that was clearly the weakest thing that had gone on. Mental attacks, even one so open as to target that woman, political interplay and power, and more that Jarzec could not hope to sort out on his own. Though he could think for himself, sure, it would be best to add the insights of one deeper involved.

So it was with an eager mind and spirit that Jarzec stood up and awaited Visari to conclude his business with the still arrogant, but humbled, Falleen. Jarzec saw hope in him, but it was a thin line. Very thin. Maybe this Lady Novus could whip him into shape though. That would be quite good for all parties considered. So, he dusted off his robes as he reached a standing position and crossed his arms, allowing Visari the time he needed to conclude his business; something he seemed be be a part of no matter where he was, thought Jarzec with a smile.

[Meira]

Renata smiled at her compatriot's telepathic reply. She barely aknowleged the noghri's words or departure. Novus then declined her offer at a wager, and Renata couldn't help but smile again. Novus possessed her kind of humor. Getting along with the woman was easy enough. Soon though, the duel started up again, and without a peep from their dear friend Eurachis. Renata arched an eyebrow, truly amazed that she had been wrong. Perhaps he'd been distracted. Indeed, there was at least one other female being watching the duel. Eurachis was far too kind to not share his greatness with all.

It appears that this time, you'd have beaten the odds. Well, some other time perhaps. She said turning her attention back to the duel.

Just then, Renata felt Cho's cold intrusion on her presence. She responded to his cool, gentle caress with a fiery spark directed back at him. Like a shock, the message that traveled along the connection he had established was clear. Stay out! Renata's eyes, which had been pacified and a more gentle blue as the banter continued between herself and the other two Darths, now turned angry as she swiveled her head to look at the creature. It was dangerous how quickly the beast came to life inside of her, and how much of a struggle it was to keep the thing subdued so that none would notice, not even this fool Cho.

If you wish to address me Noghri, you will do so in person. Is that clear?

The telepathic message was sent and Renata quickly severed the mental connection with Cho, turning back to the duel, which appeared now to be over. How irritating. He had caused her to miss the final blows. Novus stood and gave her ruling. Renata expanded her senses into the gathered crowd. The general consensus was interesting. It seemed that none agreed with the Arkanian, but all were loyal enough to shrug their shoulders.

It seems our initiates still believe they are entitled to their own opinions on matters decided by our number. I do hope that won't prove a problem. I would hate to have to take the time to kill them all.

That message was sent to Novus and Eurachis alone. Then the Dark Lady stood, her guards moving forward to flank her immediately. She merely rolled her eyes at them.

Well my friends, it was a joy. We should do it again sometime. It would keep the initiates on their toes, and Eurachis out of other people's beds.

With a sly smile, she turned away and made her way back into the temple to work on those repairs to her meditation chamber.

[Foxfire]

As Cho watched the event, Renata's words Is that clear? came back to Cho. The controlled power and fire of a dark one is what Cho expected but not the same beastual rage that was his persona. Cho purred at the words of darkness and the cutting off of the force.

Another time my Lady, another time.

Cho now wondered what was next. Still twitchy because of not seeing blood, he wondered off to find some thing that would settle his lust of it. Maybe he would take the offer of talking with Renata to see how primal her side truly is.

[Necro Stormborn]

Eurachis's smile grew thin as Renata made a jest at him. Boy did she know how to insult a man's pride.... too bad that he had an ego big enough to power all of Coruscant. Not to mention Eurachis had a self esteem high enough to deflecting lightsabers and force lightning.

His chin slid forward as he stretched his jaw and yawned. He turned to look Renata straight in the eyes, flashing perhaps raunchy thoughts.. and perhaps some mental ridicule to get her back, but then just as quickly he laughably turned it into a memory of the late Renata colliding with a door.... face first. No doubt something like that would make anyone in his position laugh....

He snickered at their wager and simply closed his mouth and leaned back in the chair. His hands clasped together in his lap as he brought his leg and rested the ankle on his other leg's knee. He sat there pensive that way for quite some time ignoring the noghri that came to say something to Lady Novus. He sighed tiredly.... growing bored of how ebb and flow this fight was... back and forth, ceaselessly accomplishing nothing.

Shortly after Renata's Remark, Novus said something that made him smile like a little boy again. "Ah, I'd be a fool to take that bet, at least without knowing the stakes. I'm sure I could find some way to keep his mouth occupied, with the right incentive."

Eurachis turned slowly to look at her, stare at her, his palm swelling and heating up, hopefully his cheek didn't flush red, as he smiled at her. it seemed like ten minutes between the time he blinked and the time he took another breath, but in actuality it was a mere matter of seconds.

"oh.... really? And what sort of incentive are we talking novus.... It would take a lot to keep my mouth busy... or do you presume to know how to occupy it so easily? I wonder, where does this knowledge come from.. i'd certainly like to test your claim." He winked at her in a playful manner knowing all too well that the other students were listening. Also knowing that if any of them even tried to interfere with their banter, they would be mowed down within seconds without breaking a sweat.

Soon after hi remark, Novus stood up, and ended the fight.... she mus have been as bored with the triviality of the battle as he had been. In fact, if she hadn't ended it, he was minutes away from standing up and challenging the whole congregation of initiates on the platform looking over the battle.... perhaps a good 5 vs 1 was what he needed to be less.... bored.

His hands slipped slowly to both sides of the chair and clasped the arm pads as he raised an eyebrow to the commands from the dark lady. He held back a laughter..... the two of the dark ladies were quite scary, yet cute and humerus when they were mad and being serious, so much so, that he was close to making a wise crack at it, perhaps in the form of a flirtation.


Then, it was Renata who exploded. her anger vomited all over the people around her, and merely because she felt the need to stamp out any form of transgression that she decided was....... misplaced. She was all about time and place...

He reached forwards for a second about to rest his hand on Renata's shoulder, but instead let it slide slowly towards the small of her back as he physically tried to quell her anger... though clearly it didn't work. She continued to rain down upon Cho, and as unfortunate as it was, he was not going to stop her. He smiled and laughed at how they had all become so close to one another..... then he let his grin dry up as she stood and began to walk away.

She nudged both Eurachis and novus as she began to walk... It seems our initiates still believe they are entitled to their own opinions on matters decided by our number. I do hope that won't prove a problem. I would hate to have to take the time to kill them all.


He thought back to them both... This is why i shy away from the teaching area... i dont feel the need or the urge to impart my wisdom or take the time and patience to deal with those whom i haven't deemed worthy or fit to even walk the same path as me. I don't look down upon them... i just look past.... until they catch my attention. You can have them for all i care... why do you think i'm shipping out not too long from now huh...


Then as she continued on past them with her guards she made this snide yet comical remark that caught him slightly off guard as he was transfixed by her figure and the way she walked slowly and elegantly, yet powerfully away from them all. "Well my friends, it was a joy. We should do it again sometime. It would keep the initiates on their toes, and Eurachis out of other people's beds."

He scratched his chin and coughed slightly as he burst out in laughter. "Hahahah...ahaha. Wow....Really Renata.... Really? Must you drag my sex life everywhere you go... And, For future reference.. i don't spend time in other people's beds. They spend it in mine." He turned back to Novus, "The door is always open for my esteemed colleagues."

As Renata finally moved to the exit, he turned back to stare at the rest of the initiates. After a silent sigh, he stood from his chair noting how people seemed to be waiting for the next challenge.

"Well then... Lets go. Who is next. I'm sure there are more problems... perhaps grudges left unattended. This could be your only chance for a while to have Darth Novus and I preside over your duels. If you wish to prove yourself or take on someone whom you feel is beneath you, speak now..... otherwise, I think we are done here and you can all return to the study or whatever you were doing. no? Speak now.... or forever hold your piece."

[Karl the Unfettered]

Well, that was that. "Interesting, was it not?" Shard said to Shandari. "We have the measure of this new fellow, which should come in handy later on." He spared a glance for Visari, and nodded. "It was good to see Netellus get a work-out, as well." Another glance around; Vash was leaving, of his own power no less, and the Lords and Ladies were discussing things amongst themselves. Curious, the Miraluka slid closer, to hear what these prominent personages had to say.

What he heard, if he had been born with eyes, would have made him blink. What the... he thought to himself, quelling a strangely violent surge of disgust. Eurachis was little more than an overbearing manchild with one thing on his mind, and the other two were no better. THIS is our fearlessly glorious leadership? A trio of sex-crazed punks with too much power on their hands? Hardly inspiring. "These are the ones who lead us, it seems," he commented silently to Visari. "Don't waste too much of your time with them, you and I have more important things to do."

"Come, Shandari," he muttered as Eurachis stood to make his pompous little announcement. "This is done with, we have better things to do." He hardly gave the powerful Lord and his overblown cronies a second glance as he took the Rilan by the hand and melted into the crowd, making his way down the stairway and away from the tableau.

"Did you see them, Shandari?" he asked of the Rilan. "Hell, did you hear them? Renata and Eurachis didn't give a pair of fetid gizka kidneys about the fight, all they were there for was to preen and eye each other up! These are the ones Iniquitous trusted to lead us?!" The sole outward indication of his annoyance was a slight shiver in the hand that gripped hers; the rest he kept well hidden, for Shandari alone.

"The way they carried on! You'd think it was all some joke!" He looked over his shoulder at Eurachis and Renata as they reached the bottom, and shook his head as he kept walking. "Xerron, come with us, tell me what you've been up to," he said aloud as they came upon the younger warrior. He spied Jarzec as well, and at a glance knew who the lad was. "Taelstrom, is it? Come along as well, I'm sure Visari will be joining us in due course." Only a slight, a very slight tightness in his voice gave any indication of his disapproval; otherwise he was much like normal. If one like him could be called normal.

[Casual]

Jarzec was stirred from his thoughts as the man known as Shard addressed him. His initial response was definitly suprise, as he didn't even know Shard that well, if at all. It didn't make too much of a difference to Jarzec, though. He was just ready to get affiliated with this Dominion and to learn a thing or two while he did. He uncrossed his arms and headed over to where Shard was, striding up to their pace.

His ultimate goal was ever towards achieving more power. To one day be so in tune with the Dark side's destructive capacities that he could hold life itself by the throat and demand of it whatever he wanted. To be sure, it was a far off goal, and one that he will more than likely die trying to achieve, but if he could get at least one sip, just one taste, it would make it all worthwhile. He had seen evidence of power, and felt it. It was visible in the duel and plentiful with those galavanting Masters who joined the duel of late. This was the place he would need to be if he were to taste the power he desired. This Dominion, the wielders of this power, the ones who took what power they had and made themselves an instrument of the Sith, the sword of the Sith Order, it seemed, they would be his initiation. It was with this thought that Jarzec found himself romantisizing too much. He was getting too eccentric with his thoughts, perhaps too deep. Regardless, Shard's Dominion screamed opportuinity, and he was soon to be a part of that.

He walked adjacent to the group that he had joined, and awaited Visari to catch up. It was he who knew this place, not Jarzec, and what this man stood for, questions would come later, but for now, he would wait for as much of this group to gather, that he may guage just what they had in store for himself and his future. Only time would tell what would happen next, only time would tell.

[Neology]

Listening to those around her, Novus made no reply, slipping into a moody silence as she watched the gathered Sith slink off one by one or in small groups. She hardly acknowledged the wave of anger that washed off of Renata, or Eurachis's further innuendo, except for a minor narrowing of her eyes and a passing impression to any nearby of the temperature dropping by several degrees. 'This is not the unity our masters would have been hoping for.' She communicated silently to her compatriots. 'Look at how they gather around the miraluka and that rilan woman whom he drags along at his side like a dog. Perhaps you -should- spare some thought for something beyond the woeful contents of your pants and the next battle to be fought, Eurachis, least it be fought against those we see here.' The message carried a strange undercurrent, like the roar of a waterfall beneath its words.

Abruptly, the Dark Lady stood and began to take her leave, causing both her guards into an unseemly jog to catch up with her. Passing the group at the bottom of the stairs she smiled and nodded pointedly, her somber mien transmuted to one of bland good cheer. "Don't forget to congratulate Initiate Vashin. I'm sure he'd appreciate some company while he gets those burns treated." With that she continued on, making to return to her own office, intent on reviewing the report on the injured student at length.

[Rugs]

Visari watched silently as Raeg picked himself up and made his way to have his wounds treated. He's an interesting one, Visari thought once Raeg had passed from sight. It may be wise to keep an eye on him... from a distance, anyway. After the friction that had erupted between the two from almost the moment of Raeg's arrival, Visari had no personal desire to interact with the Falleen. Not out of any spite towards the Fallen, though Visari certainly had a low opinion of him, but to try to avoid any future... complications between the two.

A voice he did not know whispered within Visari's head as he watched the other Sith mill about. He turned, following it back to it's source and spied the man standing near Shard. Visari nodded slightly in acknowledgment, and returned a message. "Perhaps we may at that. And yes, it is true. He killed one of our guards and incapacitated another, as well as killing some of his own men in his attempt to enter our temple. He is a very... odd individual."

Visari had been on the verge of saying more when he felt a sudden surge of fury in the Force and looked up to see one of the Dark Ladies glaring at a Noghri. Visari merely shrugged at it and decided it was of no concern to him. Then Renata made her exit, along with a lurid joke aimed at Eurachis. Visari merely smiled lightly and chuckled a bit under his breath.

Eurachis spoke next, and Visari started to prepare to leave when Shard's voice was in his head. He looked over to Shard at the Miraluka's warning, but made gave no outward indication of his own thoughts. "Perhaps... But remember, in a short while, they will be our direct superiors. It would be wise to remain on their good side," he replied as he began to make his way over to the group after seeing Jarzec move after Shard. Novus passed by the group at the same time that Visari arrived, and his eyebrows lifted ever-so-slightly at her comment. He rather doubted Raeg knew the meaning of the word, but he kept his thoughts to himself. Instead, he merely smiled and nodded as she passed. "So," he said to the group, "times at the Temple are interesting indeed, are they not?"

[Cirith An'Gol]

Xerron listened to the Epicanthrix thoughts as he responded and shook his head in disgust Not so odd my friend. I used to think that killing was the only way to prove my value to the Sith and prove my strength. I have learned otherwise in my recent past. The Falleen is a fool but, he has potential. Why else would the Lady Novus, Lord Eurachis and Lady Renata accept him into the fold?[/i] Xerron sent back to the Epicanthrix via the force. He looked to Shard as he heard his voice and considered his proposition for a moment before shaking his head.
"Maybe some other time Shard. For now my destiny lays before me. I shall attempt to join the Sith and learn what I can from them. Lord Iniquitous will most likely return someday and with a plan of some kind no doubt. Until then I want to grow stronger in the force and be of use to the Sith. This is the only path that I can walk for now. The only path I know, useless as it may sound" Xerron said sighing at himself more than anything else.
He smiled a moment later and eyed Shard with a mischeivous look in his eye as he made his way up to the arena."Besides" he said pausing momentarily as he neared Shard's position "We've yet to see a real fight and I'm getting edgy from boredom. Perhaps someone within the crowd will duel me".

With that he resumed his walk, black robes flowing around him on a gentle breeze, gathering at his back temporarily as he jumped up the final two stairs and to the arena. He calmly made his way forward and came to stand before Lord Eurachis and Lady Novus. Taking a knee he bowed respectfully before speaking "My Lords...may I be allowed to try and join your ranks as an Initiate? I will duel anyone that you wish or anyone from the crowd that may want to challenge me" Xerron looked up at his superiors, the arrogant young brat that Eurachis had known was gone. Replaced by a more mature but, still fiery character. Xerron looked to Eurachis briefly and nodded. Besides...I've grown bored as well and I miss the excitement of battle Xerron grinned as he sent this to Eurachis knowing this might spark a laugh from his previous team member. He made no effort to hide his thoughts from the others around him, not that he probably could anyway.

Standing slowly he stepped back from Lady Novus and Lord Eurachis before opening his cloak and telekinetically slapping his dual phase lightsabers into his hands and adjusting the settings on them both just in case. He set the energy settings low enough that they wouldn't kill, high enough to burn but not cut. He looked to his two superiors and waited, silently hoping that he could prove himself enough to make the rank of Initiate in some manner.

[Squee]

Shadow’s robber stayed to her grove. Her place of worship was a mask of uncertainty and a symbol of fear. The thickest cover of darkness, at the base of the looming shadow’s caster, she stood with arms to sides and hood drawn up. Dangerous amber rested around the pupils as they flickered around at their given setting. They never rested on simply the battle alone: most of her mind could track the happenings. No, the eyes wafted and floated from simple being to a simpleton being to a foolish being to a being with no future, and so on and so forth. Few caught her attention and she never dwelled on them too much except to remind herself who they were and whether or not she should take any specific interest in them.

The battle was a game. A struggle between combatants wanting to outdo each other based on mind power and control alone. It was unappealing to the eyes. Tesa knew better though. It was still a fight, and a fight she was greatly appreciating. And not only was it a fight, but a fight between dark siders who were using their talents in ways that Tesa found were quite unnecessary. If Tesa had been in charge, she would have told the mutant to screw it and charred his behind as she booted him from the Temple. The leaders were strange, and that was all she could really make of it. One of them had earned her partial respect so far. Another would likely never gain Tesa’s submission. The last… well, Tesa was going to find out today.

While Tesa believed the duel was stupid, she did decide to relax and take simple pleasure from the fact that there was a fight. As well as let herself feel the Force, thick as it was, cradle her body and mind. She drank it in.

Addictions were hard to break.

As the duel drew to a close, ending under a high twist, Tesa watched as the leader she would test today stood to deliver her announcement on whether or not the mutant stayed. He stayed. Tesa sniffed, and decided then that she had to strengthen her personal awareness and guard herself with a crazed one on the loose. From there, as the gathered practitioners began to disperse, Tesa suddenly unglued from the shadow she had become and led point into the temple.

She only attached herself back to a shadow at the bottom of the stairs, hiding herself. She noted the first few to come quickly down the stairs. A miralukan and a rilan, followed by a few other bodies, all passed by first. They clumped together, turning one way, and Tesa let a smile indent her face. Tesa preferred being by herself or with one other, not in certain groups. It would take quite a large bit of convincing to join a group that she would have to participate and cooperate with on a demanded basis. Here, at this temple, Tesa could pretty much keep to herself and avoid most others. So was the reason she had chosen to follow these Sith. Tesa believed that a closely knitted group would always fall together and/or crumble into nothingness. A loose group, one where there was a title and many more –for lack of better wording- individuals, created a more ideal environment of survival. So was her opinion thus far.

Then, finally, the one Tesa wanted to speak to floated by with her guard. The Arkanian woman, pretty as Tesa would admit, walked by, seemingly not noticing the shadow. Tesa was sure the woman had sensed her, for Tesa was not attempting at shutting herself from the sixth sense. The shadow moved as Tesa stepped forth. Due to the design of her cloak, it would appear as Tesa had been shaped out of the wall. She was behind the guard, and she pursued after Novus, stepping by the guard.

“Was is a necessity to watch such a duel? A craving you needed to satisfy? Or was it because you actually wanted a mutant in our midst? A murderous mutant, at that length.”

“Do you retire toward your quarters out of fear of the intiates’ opinions to your decision? Or to simply to display your decision is not open for discussion?”

Tesa tilted her head nonchalantly to the side, some of the shadow her hood cast on her face lifted away. Sandy amber eyes studied any reaction to woman may give.

“My Lady.” Tesa completed, keeping her facial features in line to retain the silly initiate “oops-I-forgot-the-title” look.

((right, Neology, I think this is what you wanted me to do.))

[Hotel]

Shandari kept a passive face as Novus gave her judgement, though inside her thoughts were reeling with rage. How could they let him join. Not only was he a liability, he was stupid. He was more likely to cause harm without actually trying to than through intent. Shard didn't even have to tug her along as she walked away with him willingly, wanting to be gone from there.

The Rilan woman nodded in agreement as Shard spoke to her in her mind. These leaders were fools. She had thought they were great powers and deserved respect, but seeing how they acted? She wasn't so sure anymore.

Shandari stared at Novus as she spoke to them, not responding by either communicating or any sort of facial gesture, though she did communicate to Shard. "How are we going to deal with the Falleen?"

[Karl the Unfettered]

Xerron had to go present himself to their so-called glorious leaders, which Shard thought was a bad idea and a waste of time; who knew what Eurachis would have him do, after all. Nothing pleasant, no doubt. Then Novus came down, followed by another woman who clearly wanted to remain unnoticed. "I see you," the Miraluka said to Tesa, quirking an eyebrow as she went by in Novus' shadow. "Mi'lady," he murmured aloud as Novus passed, bowing politely; the Arkanian had not displayed such overt immaturity as the other two, so she was spared Shard's unhappy opinions. Not like she cared what he thought.

"Interesting, indeed," he said aloud, in response to Visari's comment as he subtly led the group away from the others. "For now we should watch the Falleen; he has the favor of Lady Novus, however tenuous that favor may be. Watch him carefully, but do not interfere unless necessary; it is certain he will screw up and incure the ire of more people, and then we shall move.

"But I do not wish to talk of all that, it is a tiresome business already," he went on, glancing around. "Now... the Lord Iniquitous is aware of my plans, as are you, Visari, and you, Shandari." He regarded each one in turn, with his curiously penetrating, eyeless gaze. "Young Mister Taelstrom here has yet to be informed, but if Visari thinks highly enough of you, well, we shall see," and he afforded Jarzec a small smile.

"Anyway. Things are coming to a head, I believe," he went on, lowering his voice so that only they could hear. "Very soon we shall move upon Farrfin, conduct the final chords of the orchestra and lay down the openings strains of a much greater score. A score which will reverberate across the galaxy in time, and all who hear it shall tremble at our names. We need only wait to be recognized here for our power and status, and choose apprentices to train in our secrets."

His gaze swept over all of them, as the moonlight illuminated the blond strands of his hair. "They say the Force has a will... well, I have one as well. And I'll bet my life, my power, everything I am that mine is the stronger! We are Sith, are we not? We bend the Force to our whims, make it do whatever we like!" He was letting himself get worked up, letting his excitement filter out and affect the others; that wouldn't do, it would draw attention from everyone else.

"Anyway," and he shook his head, making himself calm down. "Visari, your performance this evening was enlightening, and instructive. I do not doubt those who watched tonight will be evaluating and seeking weaknesses. You played defensively, and played that quite well; others will expect such in turn." Here he grinned, and in the nighttime illumination it was hard to tell the nature of that grin.

"Why not have a few surprises to give them, eh? A few tricks of attack they won't expect? Doubtless in future challenges you will be allowed use of your lightsaber; as it happens, I know more than most about the ways of lightsaber combat." Here his voice became more serious, more propositional. "I need some defense, myself, so I propose a trade; we learn from each other. I expect you know Soresu to an art form, yes? I know Jar'kai, but more importantly I can teach you..." He glanced about, and lowered his voice again, "...Juyo."

Juyo. Acknowledged as the most difficult of the standard forms of combat, it was a demanding style of combat, grueling on both mind and body. Its philosophies were labyrinthine and contradictory, its tenents self-referential and baffling; many who attempted it, found the underlying requirements beyond their skill, and gave up without ever testing themselves. But for those who pursued its harsh regimen, fantastic skill and poise could be found; advanced practitioners of Juyo were renowned for their outward calm, calm that belied intense inner pressure that bordered on the catastrophic.

Shard, who dealt with a crippling bloodlust and insanity every moment of his life, was rarely seen as anything other than, say, slightly off to those whom he interacted with. Sure, he was prone to loud speeches and grandoise gestures at times, but who wasn't? He might have been open about many things concerning himself, but none among the Sith, not even Shandari, had known until now that the Miraluka practiced Juyo lightsaber combat. A particularly wise lightsaber duelist might have divined it from simply watching him, his stance and his demeanor, but if someone could tell that much just by looking they likely deserved their knowledge.

"In return, you will instruct me in defensive applications of the Force, and defensive lightsaber movements as well. Is this a sufficient trade?" He stuck his hand out, for Visari to shake if he agreed to the Miraluka's proposition.

[Rugs]

Visari's glance turned to the woman that had been next to Shard. So she's the one Vashin tried to break in to, is she? He looked at her with a measuring eye. She was tall, but she looked frail. It would not surprise Visari if some thought her weak based merely on her physical appearance. But, Visari would not make such a mistake. He of all people knew that there was much more to someone than what the eye first saw, especially when the Force came in to play. He made a slight bow of his head to her. "I cannot say that we have crossed paths before, my lady. I am Visari," he said as he brought his head up, with the faint trace of a wry grin touching his lips, "as you may know, what with all the hubub about the Temple lately. But, it is a shame about that Vashin fellow," he added as his face grew more serious and his brow furrowed. "'tis a shame he felt the need to try to branch out at someone else, rather than prove his power on his own, but it seems he did. But, it would appear that that move of his has gained him some enemies." The Epicanthix made a slight dismissive gesture. "But I digress."

Visari stepped to a small step back as Shard began speaking, to allow the Miraluka some room as he began his speech. Visari kept his face blank and his emotions stable at the mention of the Falleen. Should the group decide to make a move on Raeg, Visari would gladly avert his gaze, but as things stood, he had no plans of dealing with the Falleen any further. He'd had a lifetime's fill of the little creature, and it'd only been a day. No, Visari intended to make as little contact with Raeg as possible from this point on. But the others were quite welcome to do what they wished to the little freak in his mind.

And then Shard moved on to his talk of his plans, and the faintest hint of a smile crept across his face. So, the time is nigh, is it? he thought, almost eagerly. His sharp green eyes turned to Jarzec, the man who would become his student when the time was right. Jarzec knew some things about what Shard had planned--he'd have to at least know what he was getting in to if he was going to follow Visari--but all he had was an overview, a basic grasp of what the Miraluka's vision was. But with time, he'd come to know more.

Then Shard's attention turned to Visari. Visari made a shallow bow at Shard's compliment before returning his attention back to the man's words. And as Shard spoke, that faint smile returned. So, Shard was proposing an exchange of knowledge, as it were. The offer was very sweet, Visari could not deny that. To trade knowledge of defending for knowledge to attack. An interesting thought, that. It was true enough, Visari preferred to fight defensively, biding his time until the moment was right to strike out, although he was perfectly capable of attacking. He was a master of Niman, and it provided some interesting possibilities when he needed to mix things up, but Soresu was his form of choice. Of course, defensive fighting was not a thing for everyone. It required a great deal of patience, and Visari happened to be a very patient man. But, those who were not as patient ran the risk of frustration while waiting for an opening, and that could lead to all sorts of problems. And the defensive properties of the Force were no different. The required a strong will and a steady mind, lest they fall to the foe's onslaught. Visari's eyes locked with were Shard's would be if he had any as the pondered the deal. He could see the qualities within the man. Of course he'd have to be a man that knew how to wait and bide his time if he'd waited so long for the pieces of his vision to fall into place, rather than rushing out into the galaxy like a man crazed. And in return, the he was being offered the knowledge of Juyo, one of the highest forms of lightsaber combat. Oh, how that could be a surprise to someone!

Visari's hand reached out and took Shard's. "Very well, then," he said, "It seems we have an accord. I will teach you in the ways of Soresu and the defensive nature of the Force, and in return, you will teach me of Juyo." He released Shard's hand once the shake was done, and though he did not smile, his eyes twinkled with a bit of mirth. "As always, it is a pleasure doing business with you."

[Cirith An'Gol]

Xerron sighed, it'd only been a few minutes since he'd approached the leaders of the Sith and asked to be tested also. No one approached. In truth he would have preferred to be in the middle of a fight by now but, he reminded himself to be patient. Surely there had to be someone there that was as bored as he was! His glowing red gaze shifted to where Shard stood, talking to his two companions and Visari. He gathered the Force around him and focused his hearing and picked up on the last bit of their conversation. So, Shard's going to teach Visari, Juyo, and Visari is going to teach Shard, Soresu. How I wish I could learn both those forms. Maybe I should reconsider taking Shard up on his offer Xerron thought as his mind treked back to the past, to the silent vow he'd made to his uncle upon his death at the hands of Trandoshans. He shook his head No! My destiny is here! All I have to do is wait. Should they refuse me, then I will join up with Shard[/color] he refocused his mind on the task at hand, and looked to Lord Eurachis and Lady Novus.

He waited for ten more minutes, his black robes shifting with the wind as it picked up. He turned his body to face his Masters, no longer caring if someone challenged him or not. He would learn to become more powerful one way or another. Xerron's gaze went to Lady Novus, then Lord Eurachis "My Lady Novus and Lord Eurachis. Seeing as there probably is not going to be another duel. Would either of you perhaps permit me to learn from one of you? I seek only to be of use to the Sith. I have begun to realise how weak I truly am".

With that said he turned to Lord Eurachis and said "Lord Eurachis, I apologize for my actions on Muunilinst. They were brash, careless and arrogant. I believed myself more capable than you, because I can hide myself in the force. For these things I apologize". Xerron looked to Lord Eurachis as he spoke, then bent down and took a knee, completeing the humble apology. There was no mockery in his voice as he spoke, only determination to not make those mistakes again.

"I will follow whoever will have me. You have my word" Xerron said raising his eyes to look at the two Sith Masters.

[Necro Stormborn]

It was but a mere few seconds to Eurachis as he stood there watching and waiting, however, he'd been standing there a good 10 or so minutes. The smile he'd originally stood and exclaimed his impatience was now wiped away by disappointment. His eyes dragged across the floor boringly as he slowly tilted his neck up to look into the sky as the evening turned darker. His mouth curled up tightly as his muscled n his left arm flexed to it's full capacity showing his bulky arms toned finely with pure muscle.

"Heh, Guess not then...." He took both his hands and slid them into his pocket, and began to walk towards the stairway in the direction novus had gone, but he was interrupted by Xerron.

"hmmm?" He turned to listen to the man go on and on... and if he was being sincere, it was of no concern to Eurachis in truth..but the man had helped him finish a mission regardless of the antics he examined during it. He turned on the ball of his foot and quirked an eyebrow. After a few minutes of listening to him talk about learning, and no one dueling him, and how he was sorry for the rash behavior on muunnilist, Eurachis finally walked over and placed a firm hand on Xerron's shoulder.

"In the realm of titans, sometimes, the immortal who makes a mortal mistake prevails and survives where the immortals do not. You are two different people Xerron, One person is back on muunnilist continuing in childish ways, and the other stands before me a remedied and seasoned man, who left muunnilist behind. The question my boy, is whether or not you can see the distinction and live your life by that distinction. Understand this, and I will have taught you something valuable....mistakes and error in judgment are merely stepping stones to expertise and wisdom. A wise man.... will most certainly beat the brash."

His hand slowly left Xerron's shoulder as he turned slower allowing his dark veil and aura to whip at the man slowly and slightly, not rough or in the form of a tidal wave.. simply allowing it to wash over him. He took a few steps further down and towards the stairs. he noticed he hadn't addressed the inquiry on learning from him or novus. " Knowledge of that calibur should do you well for today, perhaps in the near future when i return from the battlefield that we are about to engage in over territory, I will return to you. And when I do, you'd better be in the mood for a duel, for i can teach you nowhere better than in a fight."

then, just like that, Eurachis walked down the stairs and pushed past the individuals fallowing shard and Novus, knowing full well that he was causing a commotion by shoving through them. "How tedious."

[Cirith An'Gol]

Xerron listened as Eurachis' dark aura flowed over him, he accepted the gentle dark waves that washed over him, relished in them. He stood after Lord Eurachis left, remembering his words

"In the realm of titans, sometimes, the immortal who makes a mortal mistake prevails and survives, where the immortals do not. You are two different people Xerron, One person is back on muunnilist continuing in childish ways, and the other stands before me a remedied and seasoned man, who left muunnilist behind. The question my boy, is whether or not you can see the distinction and live your life by that distinction. Understand this, and I will have taught you something valuable....mistakes and error in judgment are merely stepping stones to expertise and wisdom. A wise man.... will most certainly beat the brash."

There was truth in Eurachis words, Xerron still did possess some of the bravado he'd displayed on Muunilinst but, it'd been severly tempered, it'd been guided and trained. Back then Xerron was wild and untamed, now he had focus.

He smiled inwardly remembering Eurachis last words

"Knowledge of that calibur should do you well for today, perhaps in the near future when i return from the battlefield that we are about to engage in over territory, I will return to you. And when I do, you'd better be in the mood for a duel, for i can teach you nowhere better than in a fight."

Eurachis response to his queries had suprised Xerron but, he was looking for something to fill his time with now...at this moment. A duel with Lord Eurachis though was like a favored cake after a good meal. It would be relished and enjoyed to the last..but, first came the meal. Xerron realized that he had alot to work on but, he also realized that if he were to be of any use to the Sith, he'd have to work on those traits now, not later, and the more weaknesses he learned about himself the better. He waited until Lord Eurachis was gone before bowing politely to Lady Novus, waiting for a moment in case she had something to say and then walking toward the Temple. It was in the next few minutes that word had spread about Rhen Var. Xerron smiled beneath his half mask and drawn hood This is the perfect opportunity to better some of my skills Xerron thought as he made his way toward what he assumed was the loading dock, based on the sense of excitement, battle ready nervousness and bloodlust that he was picking up in the force. He blended in perfectly with the other initiates and apprentices, as he hopped into a line that was boarding a gunship. Xerron was a little nervous internally but, he kept the cruel smile plastered on his mouth to calm the others around him.

Then a few minutes later he stepped into the gunship.