Open Umbara Resurgence

[Zorya]

.
R E S U R G E N C E
Queen of Darkness

Z O R Y A

In the oppressive silence of the Umbaran night, a spectral glow shivered through the recesses of the ancient Sith Academy. An archway, time-worn and buried deep within the academy’s heart, hummed to life. As the ebon stones momentarily blazed with cryptic Sith glyphs, they cast ghostly illuminations that danced and flickered like ephemeral will-o'-the-wisps.

Out of the beckoning void of that archway, Zorya staggered forth, every step heavy with determination and exhaustion. She exhaled a ragged breath, and beads of sweat clung to her forehead, glistening like fresh dew under the ambient glow. As swiftly as they appeared, the glyphs dimmed, and the archway once again became a dormant relic of an epoch long passed.

Anyone who might have glimpsed her emergence would have been taken aback by the metamorphosis that Zorya had undergone. Gone was her short, jet-black hair, replaced by flowing silvery-white dreads elegantly pulled into a lofty ponytail. The irises that once held a deep darkness were now alive with a searing, fiery yellow, encircled by fierce red. And her traditional Yacombe attire had been cast aside, replaced by a hard warrior dress wrought from a peculiar black material. It wasn’t simply black; it absorbed and reflected the scarce light in a tantalizing bluish sheen. Time or trials had chiseled her once-youthful face into an ageless beauty, her countenance speaking of both vulnerability and sheer indomitable will.

The very fabric of the air seemed to tremble with her re-emergence, and one could feel the disturbances in the Force as ripples spreading outwards. A dormant entity had awakened, a colossus of the dark side that none could ignore. On the higher layers of the academy, whispered unease swept through the Sith disciples, sensing the return of a power that had been absent for too long.

But amidst all the fanfare of her return, there was an absence that was palpable. O'bog, her mischievous and vocal Ximpi, was nowhere to be found. Those who knew Zorya could remember the irreverent banter of O'bog, a companion who had always been a fixture beside or around her. But now, a gaping void filled the space where the Ximpi should have been. Separation from O'bog had been a hellish torture, a journey that felt at once as fleeting as a month and as eternal as a decade.

She had journeyed through doorways and pathways, linking moments of agony and ecstasy, of past and future. Her ordeal was a cryptic dance, reminiscent of the tormented voyage through the six circles of Chaos. Each level posed its own peril, challenging her very essence, and forcing her to reckon with her own demons and desires.

Yet, Zorya had emerged from the ordeal not diminished but strengthened. The trials had honed her, chiseling away her weaknesses and dependencies. Separation from O'bog had been a crucible, burning away any remnants of her previous identity, making her a force unto herself, unmatched and unbridled.

From the shadows, the academy watched with a mix of reverence and apprehension. The world might have momentarily forgotten Zorya, but her return heralded a new dawn, one that promised to be both enlightening and tumultuous. The dark side had a new queen, and she was here to claim her throne.
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[Cremek "Krayt" Candorus]

Of all the things the people who were attracted by this noise, these rumors, the ever curious sith master of course HAD to investigate, HAD to see what all these bothersome commotion truly was about.

The first thing that was made visible of cremek was his helmet, the blood red visor gleaming and revealing itself before he fully steps out of the darkness.

"Wow. It seems we both changed after prakith.." a apparent jab, the voice emanating, monotone as ever.

"I hope you didn't mind me visiting to see all what all the buzz was about."

@Aberforth

 

[Darth Tempest]

Quite some time had passed since the disappearance of Zorya - though the work completed on Umbara had progressed without even missing a beat. Senior members of the Order had been temporarily appointed in place of the Headmistress, overseeing the myriad of arcane experiments that occurred beneath its cryptic ceiling. Overseeing the tutelage of countless Acolytes and Disciples, continuing their religion and tradition that had persisted through the Galactic ages.

And for the first time, the Dark Lord had decided to walk amongst its ancient halls.

Amidst the rumor and chaos, Tempest had survived her fight with the Grandmaster of the Jedi Order - a woman whose fate was yet unknown. Even as the Dark Lord recovered from the worst of her injuries, she observed the progress being made on Umbara. Thus, it meant that Tempest was present when whispers began to spread of Zorya’s return. Whispers that even she saw fit to validate personally.

It didn’t take long for Tempest to reach the gateway - her presence spreading outward like spectral tendrils to ensnare anyone within her proximity. It sent ripples through the fabric of the Darkness, causing every hair to stand on their end. As she crossed the threshold of the chamber, Zorya and Cremek would immediately recognize the infamous armor and mask of the Dark Lord.

With both hands tucked against the small of her back, Tempest closed the distance between them - her gaze only briefly flicking over to Cremek, narrowing with pangs of lingering annoyance. There was no secret surrounding the impending Kesh, nor the unacceptable behavior that one of her own Masters had displayed during the course of an official mission. Behavior that wouldn’t go without consequence, assuming he survived the duel with J’aver at all.

Her attention, thus, fell upon Zorya - standing only a few paces in front of the Sith Master. There was no mistaking the changed nature of the woman that had reemerged on Mustafar. A maturity and power that radiated from every fiber of her being, one that only came from the trials she overcame. But that didn’t quite answer the question that lingered within Tempest’s mind. Who had Zorya become? Had she come through adversity on her own, or through the machinations of Raze? Did Zorya still have a place within her Sith Order?

“Zorya,” She said, her voice mechanized and modulated. She observed the woman - judging every word and action that were made next.

@Aberforth @Hastur

 

[Thel Xeros]

Thel had heard about Zorya’s academy. Though he hadn’t bothered to visit yet. She had disappeared for quite some time, though that wasn’t unusual for a Sith. He also chose to be discreet in his own activities. He had recently taken over the mining guild on Bandomeer, to add to his spice operation and dealings on Balosar. When he learnt of Zorya’s return, he decided it was time to at least pay a visit. Afterall, she had assisted him on Troiken and he had helped her with her endeavours.

He hadn’t come to the academy alone though. Recently, he had recruited an apprentice by the name of Param Vour. She had come with him. He had been working with her for a short while now, aiming to first hone her abilities with a lightsaber. She had made improvements since they started and was no longer clumsy with her blade.

Thel’s personal ship landed at the academy; his transport ship having remained in the upper atmosphere. He climbed from the cockpit. He had chosen to wear his usual robes. He gestured for Param to climb from the passenger seat and follow. “Remember what I told you Param. Zorya is somewhat unusual. She doesn’t talk. The small creature with her, O’bog, does all the talking.” Despite Thel’s usually very calm demeanour, O’bog had managed to test his patience on a couple of occasions. However, he had learnt to deal with O’bog’s somewhat brash ways, in his time with Zorya. It wouldn’t be an issue again.

Before entering the chamber, he sensed a familiar presence. The Dark Lord. He hadn’t anticipated Lord Tempest’s presence. He entered the chamber, followed by his apprentice. Even from behind, he recognised Tempest’s armour. The figure garbed in Mandalorian armour also seemed familiar. The Sith he worked with on Vulpter perhaps? As he approached the gateway, he spotted someone who looked like Zorya, but different. Her dark hair was now a striking silver colour. Her eyes were piercing yellow. The black dress a radical departure from the traditional robes he had seen her wear before. Her entire presence in the force felt different. What struck him most was the absence of a certain diminutive creature. Where is O’bog. He didn’t expect her to talk, so he wondered how things were going to proceed without her small companion.

He bowed his head to Tempest when he approached. “Master.” Param would know that she should also show due respect to the Dark Lord of the Sith. He then gave a slight nod of his head to the one in Mandalorian armour, before his eyes rested on Zorya.

@Aberforth @Hastur @Altaris @TheDudeMike

 

[Param Vour]

Param held a frown the entire way to the planet once it became visible. She was ready to write the planet off as a nature-less hell hole of darkness before finding that the academy they were going to happened to be nestled in a thicket of overgrown plants. Her frown had disappeared then, a look of wonder replacing it. She'd never heard of plants growing without light. It opened so many new possibilities, so many new ideas. Her brain ran through so many of them excitedly, only brought back to reality by her master's words.

"Yes, Master," she said with a nod. She unclipped the straps holding her to the seat and followed him, leaving a yard between them. Her silver eyes darted around from under her long silver hair, drinking in everything she could as they made their way into the chamber. It was dark, and cold, Param found. She crossed her arms across her chest, suppressing a small shiver as the hair stood. Her tight fitting sleeveless top and pants did little to protect against the elements. She really should invest in a cloak for things like this.

Param took in the other Sith that had gathered. The armored one, the white haired warrior, and then the one that she just barely caught the tail end of her own Master bowing to. She bowed her own head toward the woman, still not knowing quite who she was outside of her own Master calling her his. The air about her was choked with dark side energy, and though she didn't show such anxiety, her palms started to get clammy, and her heart beat just a little faster.

@DMCK @Aberforth @Hastur @Altaris

 

[Trael Osso]

Trael had been in one of the training rooms helping some of the acolytes in their swordsmanship. He came here after the mission on Prakith had finished. All of a sudden a commotion was stirring amongst the acolytes. Many began running out and towards an antechamber deep in the temple. Feeling outward using the force he could feel two entities of note one he was sure he had felt before though unsure of who. The other was like a cyclone of darkness within the force sending chills and causing him to make his way.

Looking over to the table nearby he outstretches his hand. Three lightsabers all slowly lift up an began coming towards him a bit of straining happening. Eventually all three clip onto his belt and a low sigh is let out. "Still can't utilize all three with the force yet it seems." Would go through the siths mind. He made sure only two of the blades were readily visible a precaution to keep the third in reserve.

Walking out towards the commotion he notices a multitude of sith. The first is Zorya though she looks much different its obvious this must've been the oddly familiar presence. Though a question tugged at Trael. He didn't spot O'bog anywhere. Continuing to pan the room he notices the mandalorian sith. Next to him he sees a woman radiating the darkside and Thel bowing to her. Behind Thel was a women who seemed unfamiliar with the surroundings. "Must be an acolyte but who's I wonder?" Diverting his attention back to the gale of darkside energy disguised as a woman when it clicks this must be the Dark Lord. Stepping towards the group he would end up beside Thel bowing to tempest. "My lord." Then gazing back up. This was sure to be interesting to say the least.

@DMCK @Aberforth @Altaris @TheDudeMike @Hastur

 

[Zorya]

.
R E S U R G E N C E
Queen of Darkness

Z O R Y A

Zorya's visage was impassive as her eyes fell upon the entrants into her sanctum. First was Cremek Candorus, the Mandalorian Sith who strode into the room with an air of misplaced self-importance. His attempt at levity was met with icy silence; she had little patience for idle chatter, and her recent tribulations had only cemented that resolution.

Then came Thel Xeros. Among her Sith brethren, Thel was perhaps the one Zorya regarded with something that could be termed respect. Their previous engagements had been mutually advantageous, and the recognition in his eyes stirred a flicker of sentimentality within her. She inclined her head ever so slightly, a nod of acknowledgment. An Echani apprentice, evidently Thel's, lurked behind him. Her power in the Force was not yet significant, and Zorya dismissed her from consideration almost instantaneously.

Following them was Trael Osso. He had been a collaborator in times past, but as she reached out with her senses, she found that he had made little progress in her absence. His stagnation disappointed her; if Sith could not evolve, they were worth nothing.

Last was Darth Tempest, the absentee Dark Lord she had heard of but never encountered. Zorya felt the magnetic pull to challenge, to brandish her newfound might. But she resisted, opting for strategic patience. Beneath the Dark Lord's authority lay a thread of squandered potential, a bitter feud with Darth Raze that seemed an act of laughable folly. How could they not see the grander design?

It struck her: their limited growth, their narrow visions, and most of all, their wasted opportunities. She beheld them and saw children playing in the sand, ignorant of the vast oceans lapping at their feet. Her resolve hardened; she would bring the Sith into a new era, irrespective of whether they desired it or not.

These Sith were bound to the insidious tendrils of the Force. Zorya saw the truth of it all, the Force as an omnipotent puppeteer, and she envisioned a galaxy free of its dominion. Her ambitions unfurled like a raptor taking to the skies - she sought dominance, not for power's sake but to free the universe from its preordained chains.

Suddenly, wielding knowledge attained from her interaction with the enigmatic Celegians and honed in the fires of Hell, she established a domineering telepathic conduit between herself and her visitors. The link was palpable, Zorya's mental voice brazen and sulfurous, "Mistress of Mustafar," she began, addressing Darth Tempest with a hint of sardonic respect, "what an honor that my absence draws you to this humble abode. Tell me, how fare your skirmishes with Raze? What might you require of me?"

In asking, Zorya was not subservient but challenging. She would learn the lay of the land, and then, she would bend it to her will. The Force may have its designs, but Zorya had her own. And they would not be so easily set aside.

@Hastur @Altaris @DMCK @TheDudeMike @Javier esschoolbus
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[Darth Arcanos]

Azar showed up late, not because he was dismissive, but because he didn’t understand these things in general. He was still not used to strange Outsider customs. In this case, enough whispers and chatter happened to catch his attention. When he heard the Dark Lord herself would be there, he finally decided to make an appearance. It was the first time they would see her since she defeated the Grandmaster.

The Pureblood tended to keep to the shadows and arrive without fanfare. Discretion was his expertise, not brute strength. He slinked in soundlessly to join the gathering, spotting a few familiar faces. His brows rose when he spotted Zorya. It felt as if a century had passed since the two lay side by side in a pile of leaves in the realm of the Force. O’bog was absent, which was curious.

His yellow gaze flicked over to Tempest, catching the tail end of Zorya’s commentary. He found himself next to a fellow Acolyte (@TheDudeMike ), though he was a Champion in everything but title by this point.

@Aberforth

 

[Cremek "Krayt" Candorus]

He immediately disregarded zorya, as he performed the typical mandalorian salute, crossing his arm over his chest to his shoulder, making a small clank and bowing as soon as tempest stepped into the room.

"Su cuy'gar, dha lord tempest."

He greets her in his native tongue as a sign of respect.

He still had the wayfinder from prakith, waiting for a proper moment to present it to her, cremek will not excuse himself, he will take full responsibility for his actions, even if his actions as a champion during the mission would now damage his reputation.

"Whenever you are not terribly busy, I may have recovered something from prakith."
he spoke politely, before stepping back and nearly melding into the darkness once more, like a ghost, watching, studying, learning, ever the clever beast.

He now turns back.

"Oh wowza, manda'lore the first is that you?" He joked, looking up and around, quite the trick, oh this was going to be good indeed..

Raze.. a mixture of agitation and wonder could be felt inside him, to think an individual could be that powerful.. he inhales, scratching the back of his neck

@Aberforth @DMCK @Altaris @TheDudeMike

 

[Darth Tempest]

Deafening silence fell across the chamber - heralded by the very first words that Zorya spoke since her reemergence, brazen and sulfurous. It was enough to silence the whispers and chatter of Acolytes watching from the sidelines, tension mounting as Darth Tempest paused to stare back at the disgrace before her. The Dark Lord didn’t move a muscle from where she was standing - posture poised, fingers knitted against the small of her back. She said not a single word, leaving those in attendance to question whether the Master’s words were acknowledged at all.

None would see the irritation that briefly flashed across Tempest’s expression.

Whatever potential the Sith Master had accumulated within the eyes of Tempest was shattered at once. It wasn’t clear what had occurred after Zorya disappeared from their ranks, whether Raze had swayed her loyalty or something else entirely. It didn’t matter. Every word was a direct challenge to the authority of the Dark Lord of the Sith. It was disrespectand defiance in the presence of Masters and Acolytes alike - all of whom seemingly expected there to be little consequence. Perhaps that is what Zorya expected of her behavior. Each had miscalculated severely.

Without warning, Zorya would feel the Force constrict powerfully against her every extremity - closing around her throat and chest with enough strength to make every breath a struggle. It was the full strength of the Dark Lord of the Sith - of the very woman who had battled the Grandmaster and emerged victorious. Zorya would have little opportunity to resist against the hold, and any attempt to lash out would be met with swift retribution. Tempest had no qualms decorating the Academy with the remains of its founder.

Zorya would feel her own body lifted from the ground - an attempt to send her hurtling backwards and ragdolled into the very wall she emerged from. Hairline fractures split would split across the rune-etched stones, pressing the Sith Master against the wall before slamming her back to the ground. Forced to her knees despite the pride displayed previously.

“Disappointing.” She said coldly - her mask tilting down the slightest degree to regard Zorya.

“Remind this disgrace of her place.” She said simply. “Subdue her.” Those in attendance would have a choice. Their loyalty brought into question for the first time since Junction.

But her punishment had only begun. Assuming the others followed her orders, Tempest attempted to channel Pyrokinesis through her free hand - directly the smoldering heat to be applied directly to the left side of Zorya’s face. It was like napalm that spread across her beautiful features, the very same technique that Alexandria had used to burn Tempest during their fight. An agony with few rivals within the Galaxy. Even if she couldn’t move, Zorya would be allowed to scream as her flesh blistered and melted from the intense heat - the smell of cooked meat beginning to fill the space between them. Her vision on the left side would go dark as even her eye was consumed by the flames.

Even if Zorya fell unconscious from the pain, her body would remain suspended in pain - left on display until Tempest’s work was complete. Until the left side of Zorya’s face was burned and melted beyond recognition. The Dark Side was woven into the flames themselves, branding each scar. Ensuring that no bacta treatment would heal the mark that had been left for Zorya, each and every time she gazed into a mirror.

A reminder to any who might question her authority.

@Sreeya @Aberforth @Hastur @DMCK @TheDudeMike

 

[Darth Arcanos]

There was never a dull moment when it came to the Sith. Warring factions on Korriban often fought like this at the smallest provocations. He remembered when he told Zorya the dangers of losing herself, and it was clear she had done just that. She was so obsessed with the pursuit of power, it blinded her and made her incapable of taking measured steps. Azar was the cautious and deceitful type to take his time up the power ladder. Zorya was always in a rush.

There was a part of him that stung more than he expected as he made his choice, but most of him didn’t care because she was not the same person regardless. Azar had to remind himself he was not a sentimental man and attachments led to weakness. Tempest had firmly established herself as the most powerful Sith in the room, and she had proven herself time and time again, the latest of which were her exploits against the Jedi Grandmaster. It was a feat not even Raze accomplished. In comparison, Zorya had abandoned the Order and failed to establish a power base.

As soon as the orders were given, the Pureblood stepped out from the shadows. His actions would come shortly after the initial attempt by Tempest to throw Zorya across the room. He would attempt to coil the Force around Zorya’s neck in a firm grip and hold her in place to allow whatever follow up attack Tempest willed.

If Zorya managed to look his way, she would see the clear conflict in his face, but he rapidly overcame it. He did not recognize the woman before him and that was for the best.

@Aberforth

 

[Anai Skhess]

Among the sith that had come to investigate what was happening in Umbara stood the veteran sith champion Anai, her eyes fixated on the sith master as she finally emerged once more. Anai's opinion on Zorya was more negative that most people, for the only interaction that she had had with her was back on Prakith. Back then, the sith master seemingly vanished out of thing air, leaving them alone at the first sign of trouble. Not only that, but not long after the group felt the force abomination being released into the confines, something they had to deal with later that cost them valuable information.

In the Kaleesh' eyes, she had either been too foolish to release that creature, too cowardly to join the fray in combat or a treacherous snake that tried to actively saboutage the mission. Not only that, but the only thing she liked about her, the fluffy little critter that talked funny, was nowhere to be seen...A shame, she really wanted to pet it at least once before its inevitable death, knowing that little pets didn't last long in the order.

Although this was Zorya's resurgence, the one that would catch Anai's attention would be Darth Tempest, relieved by the fact that her old friend had returned from fighting the Grandmaster alive, even though it was something she expected from the Dark Lord. Anai would respectfuly greet Darth Tempest with a smile...Something that would be erased by Zorya's words soon after.

Darth Tempest issued their orders, and Anai was among the first to see them through, crimson blade on her hand as she circled around Zorya, positioning herself behind her "Stand down and face punishment, or else." She would coldly say, giving her a better way out than she probably deserved. She could, of course, try to fight this, but it would only make things worse. Should she let the Kaleesh approach unchallenged, Anai would approach the woman from behind and stomp the back of her knee, forcing her to kneel in front of Vahl as her neck was restrained by the sith pureblood acolyte nearby, she would submit one way or the other.

@Aberforth

 

[Serene]

Spoiler: Music

The best time for Serene to make her reappearance in person was best when someone else was the focus of the Dark Lady's ire. The beautiful woman had since given her report about their success on Kashyyyk. The events on Balosar had taken precidence but she knew her teams failure on the Wookiee homeworld against the Jedi was not without consequence. Whether it be today or next week she would need to make up for it in the end.

Serene had arrived in time to hear the initial exchange between Zorya and Darth Tempest. Her eyebrow cocked at the boldness of her tone. The Sith looked towards the shadows with her corrupted gaze, sensing and extrapolating any context she may have missed. But it soon became clear by the Dark Lady of the Sith's actions.

The Champion would not hesitate as her mistress gave the order. The lightsaber on Serene's hip flew to her palm, activating the moment it arrived in her grasp. It bathed her right half in crimson light. She needed to redeem herself at some point and it was best to start right away. The dark side of the force built around her left palm. Small circuits and arcs of sith lightening danced between her fingers as she guarded the exit.

@Aberforth @Altaris

 

[Thel Xeros]

Others soon arrived. Acolytes gathering around to watch on the sidelines. I expected something a bit more lowkey. Trael (@Javier esschoolbus ), who Thel had met on Skako, took a place next to him not long after. He had anticipated a quiet meeting with Zorya (@Aberforth ). Perhaps a chance for him to offer assistance with the academy. He hid his displeasure at the number of people present and gave a small nod of the head in response to Zorya’s very slight gesture. Another presence in the force briefly came into his focus (@Sreeya ). Close to his apprentice (@TheDudeMike ). He was cautious. There was always the risk of being stabbed in the back, if not sufficiently wary.

Cremek’s (@Hastur ) brief words broke the silence, before he retreated into the shadows. He was sensible enough not to interrupt the moment. The anticipation was palpable. If Zorya wanted to be the centre of attention, she had certainly achieved it.

When she spoke, her words were transmitted across the mental plane. She still doesn’t speak properly then. He took in her words. They made him uneasy. Even though the communication was telepathic, the irreverence towards Tempest was clear. What’s she doing. When he first met Tempest (@Altaris ), he had been violently dragged across snowy ground to her feet, when he hadn’t even done anything wrong. He dreaded to think what she would do to someone who disrespected her. Zorya was letting her ego get the better of her.

Tempest remained silent in response to Zorya’s words. He could sense no anger. There was nothing. Not that he needed to sense anything. Common sense dictated that Zorya had just made a rather foolish mistake. Soon enough, that proved to be the case.

Thel would watch, stony faced, as Tempest attempted to constrict the force around Zorya and lift her from the ground. A minor punishment? Or something more serious? He would continue to observe as Zorya was viciously thrust against the hard stone wall and then thrown to the ground almost as quickly. He would prefer that Zorya not be killed. There were few Sith masters around, that he was aware of. It would be a waste of a useful individual. Not that he gave any indication of these thoughts. He maintained a stoic demeanour throughout Tempest’s attempted attacks.

Tempest’s order to help with subduing Zorya was unexpected. He didn’t hesitate though. Zorya only had herself to blame. He valued self-preservation above all else and siding with Tempest was the logical thing to do.

Feeling power gather within him, he reached out with his left hand and a burst of lightning erupted from his fingers, aimed straight at Zorya. The quick burst of lightning was intended to cause pain in order to subdue Zorya, just as Tempest had ordered. He noticed the others also making their own efforts to help subdue Zorya.

@Aberforth @Hastur @Altaris @TheDudeMike @Javier esschoolbus @Sreeya @Versok @Darasuum

 

[Trael Osso]

Trael remained silent as Zorya made her comments. Simply watching on as the scene unfolded. Others made their way into the chamber. The other member of the expedition to Prakith and a true blooded Sith. Though he wasn't overtly cautious the tension in the air and unfolding events kept him alert to any attacks.

Then one came luckily it wasn't directed towards him but Zorya. Though she seemed to ignore the mental words of the master Tempest heard them loud and clear. The force coiled around Zorya attempting to not only lift her but to also slam her against the wall from whence she came. Then Tempest called out requesting the gathered sith to hold Zorya still no doubt a test of loyalty one Trael didn't want to miss.

Calling upon the force he would pour all his power and concentration into holding the legs of Zorya to the floor. If she is unable to move then her potential as a threat is significantly lowered. Though Trael couldn't hold this for long especially against a stronger opponent such as the master.

@Aberforth

 

[Param Vour]

To say that Param was out of her element among all these power Sith would be an understatement. She had just learned to control the Force with relative consistency, and how to wield a lightsaber without cutting off her own head. Not only was every around her tense, uptight, and stifling, but they were also out of her league in terms of power. She was so bewildered by everyone around her that she barely even caught the words that were spoken directly into her mind. Judging from the way everyone reacted, it was apparently it wasn't just her mind.

Param's silver eyes watched Thel, her master. Her palms had become clammy, especially when the Dark Lord started their assault and ordered everyone to do the same. She waited for her Master's move. When he'd told her they were going to meet people, she didn't have this in mind at all. Her heart raged in her chest as her master raised his hand, arcing lightning into what Param could only assume was now a traitor. To try to understand internal Sith politics was to try teaching a kath hound to speak basic, in her mind.

Anything she could have done would have been for not, she was but a petal in the wind here. Instead, the lightsaber clipped to the left side of her belt, just over the black half skirt that covered her leg, flew to her right palm and ignited with a snap-hiss. Thel would see himself bathed in a crimson hue as the hum of the weapon would get closer. Then he would see Param take a half step in front of him, holding her blade in a reverse grip in front of her, protecting what would be his weak side if he weren't a Sith Master. It would be one less thing for him to worry about.

@Aberforth @Sreeya @DMCK @Altaris @Hastur @Versok

 

[Zorya]

.
R E S U R G E N C E
Queen of Darkness

Z O R Y A

Zorya felt the tangible weight of her miscalculation, a fleeting euphoria from her escape through the Void clouding her judgment. In her overconfidence, she had underestimated the fickle loyalties of the Sith, placing too much stock in her own achievements. She'd believed that her past contributions to the Order would earn her a modicum of respect, if not support.

She could not fathom their unwavering loyalty to a Dark Lord who had overseen the Sith's descent into chaos. The very same Dark Lord who had defeated a laughably inept Jedi Grandmaster, one notorious for turning the Jedi Order into a band of bumbling baboons, a feat that was sure to turn from boon to curse as quickly as it was wrought.

The pain of betrayal was poignant, a serrated blade that cut deeper with each familiar face that turned against her. Darth Tempest, for whom she had rebuilt the Sith Academy. Azar Kressh, his shadows unable to hide past intimacies shared and what-ifs of another life. Anai Skhess, barely a memory from a fleeting encounter while hunting a dragon. Serene, whose opportunism now shone clear, using Zorya's downfall to shift attention from her own failures. Thel Xeros, someone she once might've labeled an ally, perhaps even a friend, if the Sith permitted such luxuries. Trael Osso, whose success stories were interwoven with her own, a trusted collaborator on more than one occasion. Cremek Candorus, whose mutual benefits with Zorya had once been irrefutable. And Param Vour, the embodiment of innocence lost, a haunting reminder of the child Zorya had never been permitted to be.

Each assault brought its own wave of agony. Tempest's hold tightened around her like an iron vice, its oppressive weight threatening to crush her very spirit. Azar's force choke strangled the breath from her, the phantom fingers pressing cruelly into the soft flesh of her throat. Anai's stomp shattered the back of her knee, the searing pain radiating in fiery waves up her thigh. The electric tendrils from Thel's lightning snaked across her skin, each jolt a biting agony, while Serene's gaze, filled with vehement animosity, made her very soul quiver. Trael’s force held her legs pinned, immobilizing her, making her feel trapped like a beast awaiting the slaughterer's blade. Cremek's glaring inaction was an assault in itself, an echoing confirmation of her solitary predicament.

She channeled the raw agony she endured through the telepathic link she had opened, letting every traitor taste the venom of their own deeds, the sharp sting of their betrayal, the cruel brush of their indifference.

As Tempest's fiery assault approached, in a desperate act of misplaced vanity, Zorya raised her left arm, shielding her visage from the consuming flames. She felt the fire devour her hand, the skin bubbling, the flesh searing, the sinews contracting from the intense heat.

Harnessing the last dregs of her strength and in a surge of defiance, Zorya unleashed a concussive blast, the Force of which echoed throughout the chamber. She banked on the chaos it spawned, tapping into her intimate knowledge of the academy's layout, seeking an escape route. The dark, winding corridors offered her a brief respite from her pursuers.

As she sprinted, her mind repetitively chanted the names of those who had betrayed her, a venomous mantra that gave her the strength to keep moving. "Tempest, Azar, Anai, Serene, Thel, Trael, Cremek, Param," she intoned, the list a new creed that fueled her resolve. "Tempest, Azar, Anai, Serene, Thel, Trael, Cremek, Param," she repeated, letting the vow for vengeance seep into every corner of her being, giving her the purpose she needed to survive.

With a last glance filled with defiant promise, Zorya vanished into the shadowed recesses of the academy, leaving everyone behind.

@Hastur @Altaris @DMCK @TheDudeMike @Javier esschoolbus @Sreeya @Versok @Darasuum

OCC: Attempting to exit.
.

 

[J’aver Shi’eth]

The chirping of communication links would echo to fill the silence of Zorya’s escape. Everyone who had taken part in the actions on Prakith would be the ones notified of an incoming pre-recorded message. When answered, J’aver’s helmet would be the only thing that appeared in a blurred hologram. Their mechanized voice would echo forth a challenge.

“Cremek.” It began. “You are unworthy of your newfound title and position.” They spat. “Your actions on Prakith have shown all who were there the lack of control and foresight you have.” They continued. “Your elevation to Sith Master is a mistake, one I intend to rectify.” They explained. “Given your new rank, my challenge to Kaggath is nulled. I invoke the right of Arau’kesh.” They continued calmly. “All that is yours will be mine and the Dark Side will be purer with your demise.”

With that the communication would end.

@Altaris @Hastur @Vosrik @Aberforth

 

[Cremek "Krayt" Candorus]

While it slightly pained him to turn on someone he could count on to get things done with, cremek had little choice, without loyalty, one might as well be dead, and he certainly wasn't going to betray tempest. If cremek was anything, he was loyal, it still hurt that he was force to choose.

Following thels lightning, Cremek would unleash a torrent of draining energy himself, a signature of his, before she vanished.

Shortly after that, he received the communication.


Oh it was on now, cremek just luaghed at the communication, not out of arrogance, nor confidence, but sheer joy.


"Oh how it pleases me to see wolves in the order!" He sighed contently.

"How I wish not to have to kill him, he seems like a fun fellow!"

@Altaris @Darasuum @DMCK @TheDudeMike @Javier esschoolbus @Sreeya @Versok

 

[Darth Tempest]

Within seconds, the entire Academy fell into chaos. Acolytes and observers took cover to avoid the conflict, as the wounded Tempest battled against the formidable Will of the woman before her. But she wasn’t alone - as each and every one of her followers stepped forth, definitively declaring their side against the upstart Master. It was a reminder that Tempest had not claimed and kept her throne without reason. That leading the Sith away from extinction had earned her the loyalty of many.

She felt every emotion that roiled through the Force - every bit of agony that poured out from the Master, and relished every bit of it. All Zorya needed do was fall into line - to claim her place as one of the few, competent Sith. To continue the progress that had already begun, with a clear path towards Tempest’s own Council.

But Zorya had made her choice - and suffered for it. Such was the price of defiance, and Tempest knew that such telepathic venom would linger within the minds of any who might consider stepping out of line in the future.

Even still, Tempest didn’t predict the desperate blast that Zorya would unleash - attempting to escape from the fate she’d brought upon herself. The Dark Lord drew the Force into herself - projecting a barrier that curved around the front of her body. Tempest didn’t falter in her resolve, not budging an inch as she weathered the burst of concussive energy head on. But that didn’t prevent others from being sent flying, nor obstruct the cloud of debris that would effectively guarantee the escape of Zorya.

Tempest could feel her presence growing ever dimmer. The once-respected Master would scurry into the shadows as little more than a rodent, with little left to her name or legacy. The Dark Lord could already guess where the woman would turn, and mentally began to make preparations for such an eventuality.

Sith Guards would pursue Zorya through the Academy - until the woman was forced to flee into the wilderness of Umbara. But the Dark Lord didn’t move a muscle in that direction - instead moving to address those that remained.

“Let it be known that Zorya is stripped of all title and rank - declared traitor of the Sith Order.” Her gaze flicked out to regard her followers. “You will do everything in your power to kill her upon contact, or bring her to Mustafar to await judgment.”

“Any who choose to fraternize with her will share her fate.”

Her gaze, then, flicked to Azar.

The Acolyte had stepped above his peers and fellow trainees, actively standing against the rogue Sith Master, despite whatever relationship they might’ve formed. It showed a commitment to their Order that went beyond emotional weakness. Combined with his efforts on Anoth, it displayed a loyalty and cunning that Tempest valued. Traits that deserved to be rewarded.

“Acolyte Kresh,” The Force coiled abruptly around the Pureblood, bringing him down to his knees before the Dark Lord. The crimson saber snapped into her left hand, the blade igniting and hovering mere inches from his throat. She allowed the silence to persist between them.

“Your actions have not gone unnoticed.” She began, slowly lifting the saber away from his neck. To cross over his head and to his left shoulder, hovering in place. “You have demonstrated loyalty and commitment to your Order to surpass your superiors. You have displayed skill far above your station.” The saber flicked to the other side of his shoulder. “And you will undertake responsibility befitting your talents.

“In the absence of the former Headmistress, you will assist in the training of those here in Umbara. You will continue your studies of the Arcane, including anything the traitor has left behind within her study.” Tempest had her motives - deliberately placing Azar in line to take everything that Zorya had built. Burning down any remaining bridges between them. “You will serve the Sith as more than an Acolyte.”

“Rise, Champion Kresh.”