Shades and Blades

[Sleegath]

Another day another training session, the third day in a row he'd found himself sitting in one of the training rooms in the temple. Maybe it was getting a bit excessive, but really he had no other things he wanted to do, especially on Korriban. The whole planet was just so boring to him now, especially after his recent forays into the galaxy. So instead he just trained, honing the new techniques he'd learned recently to better prepare himself for battle. Already the training room was pockmarked by the effects of his training, with scorch marks, cracks, and even tiny ice shards scattered about. That foray into the abandoned temple had given him much to experiment with, exactly as intended.

Of course, today was a bit more than mere training. No, today he had actually arranged to meet someone here for a little additional training. It was a Sith he'd recently done a mission with on the Hutt world, securing lightsaber shipments. The task had reminded him of a few holes regarding his knowledge of the weapon, and the Massassi had taken a chance on maybe fixing those holes. So he'd asked the man, Ongye, if he would mind explaining the mechanics of the plasma weapons. Of course, Sleegath HAD inspected the matter himself through books and diagrams, but those had been mostly insufficient. No, from what he heard, the makings of a lightsaber were deeper than that.

It wouldn't be for free however, which is what he had expected. The other Sith had expressed desire to learn something from Sleegath as well, of which he hadn't specified. Sleegath internally speculated for a moment about what it might be, considering his arsenal of abilities. The Massassi shrugged and summoned his water bottle from across the room, drinking greedily and wiping sweat from his red brow. It didn't matter really, it was a fair trade and that was it. Sending the bottle back to its spot with his other gear, he returned to a meditative position in the center of the room. For now, he would return to his training until the other Sith arrived, which he honestly wasn't sure when that would be exactly.

Taking a breath, he summoned the force to himself, feeling its trademark chill invade the room. Slowly, he started to synchronize himself with it, forcing it to flow around him. And then he added his rage, the bit Master Nimbus had helped him see, and he had an aura, wisps of shadow and darkness swirling about his form. Sleegath opened his eyes and looked down at himself, feeding it more power and watching the aura double in size. Excellent, all the training was paying off then. @Kur Harwutma ​

 

[Ongye-Ui Miutigheid]

Strung lanterns bathed the alcove in an artificial orange glow. The shadow of a box danced across carved illustration depicting sith’ari and exiles in battle. It’s owner, Ongye, used the force to keep it aloft. This was a ceremonial slab of wood cut from a brylark tree. There were no customs which regulated any condition needing such a unique item. This particular tree, however, bore witness to the forming of his lightsaber. He would use this when tweaking or fixing the hilt. Something felt right about respecting one’s sword. Ritualizing these actions made the motions mentally cleansing. Odd for a Sith but not for a man frequently plagued by disembodied screams.

Sleegath would be waiting for him but Ongye was in no rush. The long trip from home had weakened his force connection. Here on Korriban, there was no shortage of cattle to restore his strength. Hunting took time and wether Slee was aware or not, he’d have to wait. Desire for knowledge is a powerful thirst which a parched student would do anything to quench. Ongye classified himself amongst such pupils and was eager to learn something as well. Strength was measured by one’s insight into the force. There were many chains holding him back and helping one man break a single binding could work vice versa. Ongye tried holding back a twitch of excitement with a loud audible cough. Fed, his previous master, had cultivated an amassment of these techniques. What ever wisdom remained was securely locked behind a holocron.

The training rooms hadn’t seen much use by the exiles since Ilum. Most who spared here were Red-Sith. Ongye wasn’t sure what to expect when entering Sleegath’s chamber. Footsteps hung in the entryway as he stopped to admire a portrait of chaos. The wooden block of brylark loftily landed in a small area free of debris. Sleegath would probably halt whatever dark spell he was casting. Till then, Ongye watched, bathing himself in the dark presence. Pain started as slight pricks like that of ant bite. Shivers ran up his spine and tingled the part of his brain confusing it with pleasure. Years of torture had twisted his mind and physical suffering made him feel alive. Lately that was all which could bring him even the slightest bit of joy. ”If you’re done showing off, I’m ready when you are.” Ongye waved flamboyantly to add an air of facetious goading. ”You can either be practicing that yourself or paying up your debt so we can get this over with.” After the events on Nar Shaddaa, underhanded plots would be suspected. Honesty was something Ongye hadn’t been necessarily proud of but it was simpler than weaving complex webs of lies. Maybe he thought himself simple but often times there was a deep thought hidden behind the mask.

@Narsi

 

[Sleegath]

A new presence stained the air, and Sleegath looked up to see the other Sith entering the room. He was a little late, but not unbearably so, not so much as to not deal with him. Sleegath let the dark energies around him recede, gathering up the power lest it be wasted. He then rose to his feet, briefly stretching to remove the stiffness in his limbs. The Sith's words were hardly suprising, though maybe a little irritating, such taunts were common among their kinds. That didn't stop the brief growl escaping from his lips as the Massassi stepped forward.

He beheld the man for a brief moment, raising a hand to summon his gear from the wall. When they came, he strapped the blades on slowly, still staring at the other Sith. When he was done, he stepped forward the rest of the way, close enough so that they didn't have to speak so loudly. Well the moment had arrived then, another step towards the higher level, though at a cost. Of course...Sleegath would be getting HIS prize first. One couldn't unlearn a technique once it was taught, and he had every right to be suspicious of the one in front of him.

Sleegath was just happy his basic had finally managed to improve a bit. Speaking it now was...less embarrassing then it had been a few months prior. At least he had that much, even if this day went wrong. "Ongye, We shall start with you teaching first. I set this up, and I shall reap this benefits first.' He smirked at the other being slightly, a rare smile on the Massassi's face. "And after all...many can teach lightsaber works. You'll find it not so easy with the dead Masters technique."
@Kur Harwutma

 

[Ongye-Ui Miutigheid]

Sleegath was an annoying massassi, the rest of his kind were but toy soldiers for the Sith. Regardless of intangible limitations set to subjugate them, leastways he was worth respect. Ongye had little credence in the massassi’s words. The statement was plausible but not credible. Sith in these days were scant. The odds leaned in Ongye’s favor. ”Upon my word, I pledge an honest exchange. No trickery, no schemes, just a deal between two knights. I don’t need forgiveness but you must give something to assure your commitment.” Ongye pointed to Sleegath’s swords. They could prove an issue when dismantling his own saber. ”I can’t put myself in the position of betrayed. Hand me a weapon to signify a willingness to pay your pound. If you can’t comply, then I shall take my leave.” There was a rattle of fervent anxiety across Ongye’s arm. It may conceivably be that he was the last honest man amongst Sith. Nil could frighten him these days and notions of ill fated assassins would only surge adrenaline.

Ongye stood unceremoniously with hand open to catch Sleegath’s sword. If the weapon switched owners, Ongye would submit to his request. Authorized by its master, the Brylark loftily made way to rest in the air before them. Should Sleegath deny, and perpetrate a reasoning to stay fully militarized, Ongye would leave. Comfort and security must come first. How else would he defend himself with his own lightsaber being used as the teaching tool?

@Narsi

 

[Sleegath]

Sleegath raised an eyebrow at the pledge, rolling his eyes silently. Really? Perhaps these new Sith were different, but he'd been raised to be wary of such vows as falsehoods. He raised an eyebrow again at the gesture to his blades, finally getting what this was really about. The little human was scared of him, scared about what might happen if he took apart his precious lightsaber. The thought made Sleegath smirk, holding back the laughter. What ever happened to faith in the force? And did he not possess any additional weapons?

Whatever, the hulking Massassi shrugged and reached for his belt. Drawing one of the swords, he flipped in midair so that he held it by the blade. He then proffered the hilt to the other Sith, who would presumably accept it. Well that was that then, not that it really changed much. "There," He stated dryly, "A weapon, lets get started." He would then motion and lead the way towards a small wooden table off in the corner. It was simple, but would make a good workbench, especially as he'd arranged for a multitude of tools to be delivered with it.

He would then take a seat and motion for Ongye to proceed, still ready just in case the Sith had other plans. @Kur Harwutma

 

[Ongye-Ui Miutigheid]

Ongye pondered for a moment about exactly what Slee had smirked at. Primacy, perhaps, having been an important enough figure to have his wishes heard first. Ongye did denote a weakness to his character. Partially due to the force wound, his martial adroitness shined over force control. Thoughtfully he decided it was best to assume a pleasant reason for the snide look.

Expertly and without fail, Sleegath turned the sword in air to face the hilt to Ongye. Force energy wrapped invisible fingers around the handle and brought it into his possession. ”Thank you.” The weapon felt weighted and strange to Ongye. It had been some time since wielding a sword made of metal. Sith often used these primitive weapons to leave permanent and fatale scars. Truly the lightsaber was a merciful weapon used for merciless means. Cauterizing wounds as it slashed through flesh. Jedi found it a useful tactic when fighting without intent to kill. Ongye himself thought the Sith capable of some benevolence. Sleegath showed a small glimmer when passing his possession over. Wether he knew it or not, this spoke greatly of his character. Ongye respected it and knew that announcing it wouldn’t bring a friendly conversation. Still Sleegath was a Sith and simply being one made him an object of fear and hate. Someone he may never understand. If Sleegath ever made an attempt towards companionship, he felt it would ultimately be a selfish union. These people forgot their goal: Control the darkness, do not let it consume you. More and more, Ongye began to feel himself being overcome but always he remembered that this path should be walked carefully. The sword resembled this alley of darkness. It’s intent was to butcher and bleed. Slatted by evil powers. Double edged like the force itself. Ongye exchanged the lightsaber at his side with the warblade. Carefully he kept his cloak from rippling. The pistol, hidden, tucked away just in case.

Fondly, he remembered a youth. They walked towards the Brylark and a smile beckoned forth. This image of squandered potential fluttering like a moth drawn to light. There was one a long time ago whom claimed he would never be subservient to the dark side. However, our hopeful intentions rarely see fruition.

”It would probably be best to ask you what you know.” The ordained lightsaber floated into position on the table. ”I’m doubtful you know much.” He held his hands at each side of the lightsaber, infusing it with the force. Slowly it rose into the air. ”As it’s benevolent master, it would be wise to respect it.” As couplings and casing slid apart, circuits and crystals became exposed. ”You are it’s weapon. Each lightsaber is born with the master’s intent.” The glowing red chunk of Kyber crystal floated out. ”You will either be it’s slave or enslave its power.” Ongye looked up and into Sleegath’s eyes. He was speaking in euphemisms. No weapon could speak or think for itself, at least none that he had encountered. Despite this it seemed these weapons performed with little regard for their owner. ”Lightsabers are virtually weightless. It’s blade, nothing more than a magnetic field. Difficult to control but not impossible. At the heart of it is you and the Kyber crystal.” Each remaining piece slowly fell to the table. The red gem turned in the air slowly.

 

[Sleegath]

Sleegath pondered the Sith's first question for a moment, eyeing the floating lightsaber hilt. What did he know, well he certainly didn't know enough to get the job done. And yet...he knew the basics of construction, the parts he would need and how to put them together, in theory anyway. In truth, he was quite inexperienced with the tools of the offworlders, and books couldn't quite close that gap, even without the mystical component he needed a true explanation of. Finally he spoke once more. "I know the basic components needed, and how assembly is doing. But only in theory."

He then kept silent, listening carefully to decrypt the words as the weapon floated...and then came apart. Ah perfect, this was exactly the observation he needed to begin moving away from the purely theoretical realm. He paid close attention to each part, circuit, and coupling, trying to memorize how they fit and interacted with each other. The crystal didn't escape his notice either, a piece Sleegath made sure to observe carefully, mentally jotting down the size and characteristics. It was one of the key parts of a lightsaber after all, and not just any such crystal would do apparently.

And this wasn't just any old crystal either, now with the way in pulsed with the force. Yes he could sense the will, almost life, within the crystal, lending credence to the other Sith's words. This was indeed the missing link he needed to witness, to correct the error in some of his assumptions. It was useful as well, to hear the admonishments regarding the weapons characteristics, the weightless part bringing a slight frown to Sleegath's face. He could hardly imagine swinging a weapon without weight behind it, certainly no weapon he had ever trained with. But that bridge could be crossed later, for now he had few more questions. "And how did you find this crystal? And prepare it for use in a lightsaber?" Even now his eyes roamed over the other components, confirming mentally where and how he would acquire them.
@Kur Harwutma

 

[Ongye-Ui Miutigheid]

Sleegath brought his questioning to a level of unbidden curiosity which bordered on uncharitable. There deal was simple and altering it would require additional compensation. ”Unfortunately I’d like to keep its origins a secret. These crystals are rare and form within the hearts of strong stars. So you see why holding onto the name of its home proves a great advantage for me.” Instead of ending their informal conversation he parted with a small indication of where to look. ”Ilum was known to have caverns abundant with large formations of Kyber. After the events their, I wouldn’t be surprised to find some floating around on what’s left of its surface or satellites.” Personally he felt that presenting this lead would prove more than enough. Sadly greed is synonymous with Sith. Their appetite for knowledge was boundless. Sleegath may be able coerce Ongye into obtaining one. The cost would be unreasonable. This exchange needed to come later for their seminar was unfinished.

Hoping to proceed uninterrupted, his lecture now focused on the Lightsaber’s heart. ”Kyber crystals are inherently white. When chosen by a jedi, they change color. Becoming either blue, green, purple, or yellow.” The one before him was neither of these and needed an explanation. ”Mine is different because Kyber refuses the dark side. Only through the force can you ever wield one. Bending it to conform to your will. Slowly bleeding till finally becoming crimson.” Jedi told tales of songs that these crystals could sing. Their voices only meant for those aligned with the light. Ongye knew such pleasant whispers would never fall upon his ears. ”Harvesting them is universal. Requiring either hours of painstaking work or laser energy to disrupt their structure. Once segmented, the Kyber is faceted like a normal gem. An intricate lattice could potentially make them stronger but small segments like this will have little variation in power.” The diamond shaped ruby red Kyber slowly lowered down. The pieces of the lightsaber rose individually.

Ongye began its assembly, starting with the important segments. ”The most vital part is its emitter matrix.” Two coupling floated on each side of the Kyber. They were joined by a crystalline casing then capped with circuitry which formed the matrix. ”I’ll show you the proper way of assembly so you don’t accidentally invert the mechanism. Doing so could cause it to short out, at best. Explosions are more common and may kill you.” Ongye rotates it to show two distinct gold formations on the circuit. ”This hexagonal shape intakes from the power-cell. The laser enters and concentrates within. Then it emits through this pyramid shape here.” Next came education on assembling the emitter shroud and power gate. They connected perfectly. The circular opening connected to a cylindrical metal tube inlaid with electrical circuits. ”Offsetting the crystal slightly will cause the emitter shroud to malfunction and what results is a blade resembling fire. This is impractical as it can cause damage to its user.” The rest of its mechanics were simple. Ongye attached a power-cell at its base. Included an adjustable setting which looked like a small golden square attached to its matrix. Then he finished assembly by covering it with the handle. ”Speaking truthfully, these parts would cost somewhere in the range of 5,000 to 8,000 credits. Allocating a Kyber will be the hardest part.” The lightsaber returned to the table. Ongye let out a sigh of relief, having been sure this was an elaborate attempt at stealing his weapon. ”Any more questions?” The words came out drawn but he felt an obligation to assist with whatever was lacking from his demonstration.

 

[Sleegath]

Illum….the name was a familiar one, the new Sith had spoken plenty of the history that had happened there. He had also read of it in his research into the crystals, and it was indeed a place where he could acquire such a crystal. Sleegath frowned slightly, yes it had been on the list, but it hadn't been the only one. In HAD been one of the most dangerous ones however, though at least it wasn't Lothal. Sleegath forced the frown away and merely nodded, thinking of the other possibilities. The black market for instance, was a valid option, as was the more out of the way places like Tatooine.

The bit about the crystal bleeding was very interesting, it seemed like something he might want to experiment with. It made sense too, if one wanted to wield a weapon properly, it helped to have a connection with it. And the dark side was the greatest thing to have a connection with, something that "natural" formations didn't always tolerate easily. He eyed the crystal for the facets and structures, nodding silently when he found them.

The next bit...was the most important part, the very thing he had hoped for. Watching those parts reassemble once more, with the key pieces having its properties explained. It was perfect, and by the end of it he was reasonably confident on how to do it himself. Or at least do it without risk. Certainly the credits wouldn't be a risk, those would probably be an easy thing to acquire. He pondered briefly the entire lesson, did he have any questions? Well...he did have one, but it wasn't one the other Sith would be able to answer. How should he go about keeping his end of the bargain? Sleegath had no illusions about his ability to teach, and all he could think of was Master Nimbus's method. Of course...that method was...well it would make thing interesting.

He shook his head to the other Sith and rose to his feet. "No, no more questions. Now come, I shall fulfill mine part of deal." The hulking Massassi would then lead the way back to the center of the room, where they had room to maneuver. He would then stretch out a hand to receive his weapon back, speaking as he did so. "Sword. Now...what do you know of the Dark Aura technique? Of its capabilities and how it is performed?"
@Kur Harwutma

 

[Ongye-Ui Miutigheid]

Knowledge was something Ongye certainly lacked. Willfully teaching the man before him brought an aspiring sensation. One day he might be able to take someone under his tutelage. Successfully educating Sleegath was simply a step. Still he wondered if he had the capacity to take a student. Ongye insatiable void of hunger would present a problem no doubt. How could he sustain a relationship without feeling the need to consume? Such problems were for the future. Now was the time for learning. Submerging oneself into studies of occult. Wisdom sought is earned even in the smallest of ways. Luckily a huge step towards grandeur presented itself in Sleegath. Willing to participate when others refrained. Truly something admirable. Even though Ongye seemed weak when practically begging for the sword. Compassion shown through and the volumes it spoke had already left its mark. One day this favor would be returned to Sleegath. Once again, these were things of future endeavors.

The sword changed hands, returning to its rightful owner. Ongye gave a polite bow, thankful to be presented with such mercy. High Sith, Massassi, and all were honorable people. Ongye would never admit that his proclivity towards making home on Korriban was do to this. Always making himself distant when presented with chances to express these kindred feelings. Then choosing the worst kind to befriend. What brought this was a fear. Knowing whom would betray him made associating more comfortable. Chancing a friends unfaithfulness struck a cord that inevitably made him extraverted. Maybe there could be something gained beyond simple knowledge. Sleegath was more than likely just as distant. All that followed darkness reveled in negative emotions often forgetting that even good could lead to stronger feelings.

”Hmm?” Ongye had lost himself to thought. Regaining his senses at the question. ”Sorry, no I know basically nothing. Just that it amplifies dark side emotions. Coalescing in an almost tangible way.” He gave a shrug to signify the uncertainty he felt. ”Please correct me if I’m wrong. Seeing you use it earlier. I figure it’s simply focusing on strong feelings. Exuding it like one does with a simple force push. Except this energy swaths the area around its user.” Ongye sat down on a broken column, looking up at Sleegath. His eyes shown a calmness that was reserved for those named friend. Something about their interactions presented an ethical principle they seemingly agreed upon.

@Narsi

 

[Sleegath]

Sleegath pondered the answer for a moment, inwardly smirking at the familiarity of the response. It seemed like months ago now, that he had given almost the exact same response to Master Nimbus. At least this showed him where to go from here, what steps he'd need to take to ensure the same lesson was taught. First things first, he needed to clear up the usual misunderstanding. "You are correct" He nodded to the other Sith, keeping his standing positon for the moment. "But you are also wrong. It is rare, that an actual aura is generated upon reaching for the force correct? Even powerful Sith usually only chill the room or maybe impart a joylessness on the area when they bring out the dark side."

"An actual aura, a greater manifestation on the physical world is...something more. It is a darker and more focused representation of the dark side than you are used to doing by far, it has to be to envoke such effects. And it is that grand darkness within, that grants it the abilities it has, to inspire such terror and malice amongst the lesser folk." Sleegath sat there for a moment, allowing the answer to sink in before standing. He beckoned for Ongye to do the same, stepping back to give the other some space. "Gather the dark side to yourself, to your limit."

Yup, he was going to do this the way he'd been taught. But first, he needed to see what form Ongye's powers looked like beforehand, and it would be easier if the other was already fully powered up. The hulking Massassi waited patiently with crossed arms, giving no sign of his own preparations he was making inwardly. Hopefully he could pull this off properly, he was betting a lot on assumptions and anecdotal experiences. @Kur Harwutma

 

[Ongye-Ui Miutigheid]

What contemporary ideology this Missassi possessed. Achieve by doing not by watching. Ongye mostly agreed but watching Sleegath’s demonstration had given a slight insight. Darkened utilities, such as negative emotions, were not complex tools. Versatile when applied properly, its use could be elaborate. Bordering the line of convoluted ceremony. Such was this Dark Aura. Harnessing darkness should come effortlessly so Ongye positioned himself comfortably. Mask now removed, sitting down slowly, his legs pulled in and crossed, then hands joined at his core. Posture erect with back straighter than an arrow. Malicious thoughts resounded. Some from memories most recent. Others pooling at the surface having previously been dormant till now.

The most powerful came bidden at command. Once, long ago, a lover in adolescence whom betrayed his loyalty. Trust tossed like waste in a basket. Amusing herself as a children often do with toys. Tortuous was such memories. Hounding every waking moment but always buried at the slightest twinge. Focusing brought a great sorrow. Manifesting itself as he concentrated. The air around them grew thick with an essence of despair. Nowhere close to achieving true palpable aura. Ongye was not one to participate in such mischievous conduct. Regulating emotions, sympathizing with both animate and inanimate. Condemning the practice to nothing more than a wisp of thought. ”I-I…” Tears appeared at each corner of his eyes. ”I..” Ongye wanted to express the difficulty of continuing without admitting it was something far beyond attaining. ”I don’t think I’m doing it right.” Should he continue provoking memories like this he’s undoubtably lose attention. Evolving into a monster controlled by phantoms.

@Narsi

 

[Sleegath]

Sleegath nodded knowingly as he saw the results of Ongye's efforts, feeling the resulting despair clog the air. It was just as he expected, not a hint of the actual aura the technique was known for. Looks like this had to be done the hard way after all, not something he had been looking forward to. "No you aren't ," He rumbled out, reaching for the dark side as he assumed a ready position. "You don't want it enough, not yet at least." Without a single word more, Sleegath powered up, drawing an inky veil about himself once again, He didn't stop there, shoving his spare strength into the technique recklessly, holding nothing back. In an instant his form had shifted into that of a immense monster wreathed in black flame. Demonic red eyes peered forth, hovering above a dark pit of a maw of bloodied teeth which opened wide, as if to engulf the other Sith. A screech ripped through the air, the room suddenly under assault from blistering winds.

All of these factors would've been terrifying in their own right, perhaps causing heart failure in certain victims. But there was more to the technique than pure visual cues. No, his form now radiated pure hate and malice on a level far beyond what most people had every encountered. And every bit of that was now encroaching upon Ongye, who had already stretched and strained his own emotions. Sleegath's booming voice sounded suddenly, echoing in the chamber as he shouted. "NOW DO IT!" How did the old motto go? Fear led to anger and anger to hate? And then hate led to the dark side? How very fitting, that was exactly what they were trying to accomplish here. Perhaps the off-worlders knew what they what they were doing after all. @Kur Harwutma