[IC] Hirak's Holo Diary

[Trakaton Kalkoran]

((originally posted by Hirak Sanguinis, July 2017))

Entry 21: The Old Kalkoran Estate

*Hirak steps into the view of the holorecorder. He paces the room somewhat and then force pulls a chair to himself. He then sits upon it and sighs lightly, pressing a button that allows his mask to unveil up over his head and reveal his Rattataki face. He rubs his face with his hands and blinks a few times before frowning deeply.*

"I have just returned from the Old Kalkoran estate, the one destroyed by Sith politics and where the Kalkoran family were slaughtered. I had heard stories of what such power can bring if tempered in the wrong hands, and these hands choked the life out of the Kalkorans. I can feel that lingering terror still in my entire being, and it will haunt me.

It started a few hours ago when Trakaton had awoken in the night with dreams. He stormed into my room unable to sleep, unable to shake the visions out of his mind. He stood there, full armoured, sullen bags under his eyes as his face contorted into a wraith's image. I had never seen him so taken aback, so lacking of sleep and any sign of longevity. He spoke to me in a quiet yet depraved manner, something that was not common of his character. He stated we needed to go to the Old Kalkoran Estate at once because he had visions of it, visions that had called to him and he needed the answers or be damned for ever. I supposed the last part an embellishment, but none the less I agreed and changed into armour before heading out with him.

Trakaton had not been back since he had claimed his Mother's lightsaber for his own, and I remembered what he'd described  about the place both before and after the tragedy. Yet we both stood there, gazed upon the walls of the Kalkoran estate, the dead, ruined skeletons of his family members still strewn by the walls. Once there had been poppies all over the estate, something that had persisted despite the destruction. But this was different. All the poppies were dead, killed and turned into lifeless version or a darkened mirror image of their original form. It was as if the whole Old Estate had been turned to grey-scale. But we still pressed on.

Banners of the Kalkoran image strewn across the battlements and the main complex which we entered. A voice, an image called to Trakaton, or at least seemed to as I followed him down this pathway. Thereupon we descended into what essentialy were crypts now. Into the darkened rooms until Trakaton stopped at one, closed door. Jammed tight but darkened like the abyss. We both regarded it's height and its mystery before he pressed on and I followed. Into the maw of the beast, I suppose. It was foolish but then again, men who do not sleep piss in the wind and expect it to quench their thirst.  So we stepped inside.

The doors locked and darkness fell upon the room, yet a single figure remains within the central circle that the room displayed on it's floor - no doubt a dedicated meeting room in the past. That figure knelt down behind with her back towards us before it stood up and turned to face the two of us. I frowned  deeply, and watched closely as it came before us. It was a face I did not recognise, a Pureblood no doubt but one that I had never seen before. Yet, as I looked to Trakaton to guage his expression, I noticed only horror. He barely spoke but one name came out: 'Mother'."

*Hirak offered a long drawn sigh before he folded his arms underneath his pectorals and raises a hand up to his chin tapping it ever so slightly.*

"Yet, this disguised was drawn aside and it the true form of our assailant was revealed. Lord Saud, mighty in her dedication to the Force and Sith Alchemy stood before us. My heart dropped, in all honesty, I was terrified. We had walked into a trap, one that had been lain and we had succumbed to it out of desperation. We stood resolute and in our terror we drew our blades to defend ourselves. But that was not enough for her, she crippled us with the force momentarily forcing us to our knees as she approached us. A long winded tale of her hatred of our actions, of our betrayal, specifically Trakatons of course as he prior apprentice. She spoke of our meddling ways in her affairs and how despite all of this we were useful to her and the house. If we wished to live and for this horror to go away, we would agree to stop undermining her and she would stop plaguing Trakaton with visions.

What choice did we have? We agreed and placed our lives in her hands at this very moment. And after all had been said and done she let us go and offered back the corpses of Yallanda Kalkoran which she had... utilised to plague Trakaton with visions of her and her blood to cause him injury. Suffice to say, she is now buried where none may find her.

And yet it demonstrated a succinct degree of mortality in a brief period that has felt like near immortality. Whilst our weaknesses were revealed, at least one broken bond has been temporarily subdued and patched over for now. I suspect we need not fear Lord Saud's desire to kill us raging within her but what she deigns to make us do for the sake of unity...

End recording."

*Hirak wafts a hand towards the holorecorder and the machine shuts off, allowing the blue light that displayed the image to zoom back into the device with practiced ease.*

[Trakaton Kalkoran]

((Originally posted by Hirak Sanguinis, August 2017))

Entry 22: New Apprentices, New Acolytes, Sith Therdel and Industry

*The masked apprentice steps into frame once more. He paces somewhat before drawing a chair towards him. He'd sit upon it and offer a sigh. He'd then move his hand up to the left of his neck and pressing a button. The metallic carapace begins to unfurl and within 5 seconds had completely removed itself from the Rattataki's face. Closed eyes lie underneath. After a deep breath they open and hirak begins to talk, his brows taught and his lips thinned before he opens his mouth to speak*

"Much has happened between the mending of the bonds between myself, Trakaton and Lord Saud. Whilst I try my best to keep this updated, I am not always perfect in regards to allowing the time.

As such, the latest set of Acolyte Trials has borne some fruit. Various acolytes once prominent in their ranks have ascended to join the ranks of Generation One as we now call it. This Generation Two offers acolytes who fought during the Arious War and at the sacking of their temple, as well as new set of trials. Whilst we will always consider our own trials to be superior, it would be childish to assume that because theirs were... slightly kinder than ours that the acolytes grafted from them were less than dangerous. So, my former master took Tashha to be his apprentice alongside Zirvesh. I have no doubt that Tokiai wishes to replace my strength with her own. After all, he'd be wise to find that balance for Zirvesh, who falls in the wind against a physical opponent.

Soyut and Temekel were taken by Lord Saud, which was no surprise seeing as she'd trained Vipion children beforehand. Whilst Soyut had always cropped up on my radar, he'd been subservient... a rather wilt lily I suppose. Yet, since ascension there's been a strange calm, a collected web of emotions bubbles beneath the surface. Most interesting indeed. Temekel had always been of a sound mind, one that perpetuates into her ascension. No doubt Lord Saud will make use of her intimate skills in the medbay. I certainly have. These were the first to be chosen.

The next was Aljo, the Lethan Twi'lek who myself and Trakaton had once beaten in a four versus two many months ago. I have always considered her one to watch... after all, Aliens in his house prosper under intense pressure. Who else better than to forge her into such a menace than an alien Lorekeeper? I suppose it is a good pairing. After all, her closeness to Zarrious was noted and she could certainly use with someone more level headed than he.

After this, Siors ascended as Therdel did. No longer the Apprentice of Saud, our once tyrant turned ally took up the famrer boy from Tatooine and turned him into a Sith Apprentice. Whilst I have always considered Siors to have some girth, I am interested to see what Therdel will make of his new apprentice in the near future. I do hope the respirator does not trouble him too much."

*Hirak chuckles and smirks with sadistic delight. After a few moments the emotion fades and he returns to the topic at hand.*

"Then finally Zaryaa. That animal has always been amusing. For a Pureblood she has often displayed tendencies that should relate her to the pits on Rattatak more than they do me. But, I suspect beneath the surface is a keen eye for understand what's need to be done. After all, she broke an alien just to garner the favour of Lord Korriz, who took her on as her own."

*Claps his hands for a couple of moments before leaning back in his chair.*

"Thunderous applause is deserved. But as many ascend so must their ranks be filled. A few acolytes have stepped up whilst others have remained stagnant. To name but a few, the Ronith family are one. Zutauha and her brother, Lythare. The younger Vipion children of Soyut's twin Ayinon and their younger sibling Jen'kaar. A cathar by the name of Elayzek, a rather gargantuan beast with little knowledge. Vay Kharzov, a petulant for knowledge. Cadeus Horuset, the child of Lord Korriz. Lis'na, a Rutian Twi'lek, the second to join the Horuset Household. Many fill the ranks and many will strive to become stronger than what they are. It will be amusing to say the least."

*Hirak then stands up and moves the chair away. A serious expression falls over his face as he continues.*

"In the meantime, alongside the Echani relatives of the Lorekeeper, taking the Cularin Mining Facility for our own. It involved an elaborate infiltration mission from myself, where I went inside and managed to gather the drift charts for the asteroids floating around the station. After that, our forces dropped in and secured the facility. It was a hard won battle and the profits have been... rather substantial. Apprentice Aljo and Acolyte Occularis joined us in the assault, being part of the strike team alongside one of the Echani commanders... a rather repulsive individual.

Regardless, it now belongs to us. I have always enjoyed the sweet taste of victory, but it does feel rather empowering to have more than just simply the Dark Lord's funds at my disposal now.

End recording."

*Hirak wafts a hand towards the holorecorder and it begins to shut down, the blue light fading away into the machine before it turns off.*

[Trakaton Kalkoran]

((originally posted by Hirak Sanguinis, August 2017))

Entry 23: The Second Alien Conspiracy

*Hirak walks into frame and offers a distinct sigh, pulling a seat to where he stands and sitting down upon it. He rubs the back of his neck softly before looking up to face the camera of his holodiary with a fervent and resolute disposition.*

"So, it happened again. Another alien conspiracy has weaseled it's way out from the woodworks into the notice of even the council. Truly though I was not the centre of it even if the useless son of Horuset tried to make me seem so.

Regardless, for future reference, never trust Sith Cautus with anything. I tire of his interference."

*Hirak coughs and slams a fist into his chest to give himself a little jolt start. It's clear that he's tired and that the stress has been taxing on his sanity.*

"It all started when the cathar acolyte Elayzek discovered that this Rutian Twi'lek called Lis'na had a thing for him. He started to poke around it at my beck and call to discover that she had plans to reshape House Horuset in her own image. Essentially, this was the -true- alien conspiracy, not the twisted truth of me wanting to bind other aliens to my will to make myself stronger. It was truly a travesty.

So, I kept Elayzek close to her to get full proof of her transgressions. And he did, to his credit. He is an efficient work horse. However, Sith Cautus intercepted him and tried to take the information for himself. So, in response, when I finally learnt of this and that the wretched had bugged the cathar, I took it directly to Lord Korriz who at the time had replaced my master on the council whilst he was away. With this information in hand, both Lis'na and Elayzek were punished for their transgressions as was Cautus. I threw Cautus under the proverbial speeder, I hated him and his interference and he got what he well deserved.

Lord Korriz was less than pleased. She took offence both to the conspiracy and to Cautus’ attempt to twist it into a political move of his own. In the last conspiracy, the wretch chucked me about until I broke his protege in front of the Dark Lord himself as an acolyte. This time I would get revenge for his perpetual annoyance.

Regardless, both Elayzek and Lis’na were punished; the arm up to the shoulder taken from the Rutian whilst Elayzek lost one of his lower legs up to the knee. The Cathar had given up a limb to be in my service… perhaps he could be of use to me after all.”

*Hirak moves a hand up to his chin, tapping against the bone and he hums to himself. After a few moments he cracks his neck from left to right slowly, allowing the full stretch to ease the tension somewhat. He'd allow a relieved sigh to erupt from his mouth before stretching upwards.*

“Amusingly, both Cautus and I were called separately into the council chambers to speak with the council. I was berated by Tokiai, or at least he attempted to. His argument was base, without point and just to seemingly make it appear that I was being punished. Cautus on the other hand took it very badly. He was apparently shouted at by Lord Korriz, who made the it emphatically clear that he was an embarrassment to the family and a disgrace. Unlike myself, an alien in a tradtional house, he was not used to such degradation and took it to heart. The joys of having been a slave.”

*Hirak chuckles loudly  at the thought, almost maniacally*

“How the cogs turn. Life is simply amusing.

End transmission.”

*Hirak is seen waiting for a moment stood in place before he turns away swiftly, his waist cape on the design of his outfit flows softly as he does before the blue light of the holodiary finishes.*

[Trakaton Kalkoran]

((originally posted by Hirak Sanguinis, September 2017))

Entry 24: Political Boogaloo

*Hirak steps into frame in a long, black hooded robe. His mask is kept on, allowing his voice to twist and turn into tears usual robotic gait.*

“Apprentice Trakaton and myself never aimed to be politicians, you know? We never wanted to spend our lives not having to tussle with the varying factions to find balance and to keep safe our very existence; to dull their blades whilst keeping ours sharp. Yet, here we are and in order to keep with that focus we’ve been focusing on gaining allies. Due to the nature of this holodiary and the potential of it falling into the wrong hands, I am wary of revealing just who supports the Kalkoran Powerbase.”

*Hirak pauses for a moment*

“Indeed, the first time I've mentioned that phrasing. The Kalkoran powerbase is the powerbase myself and Trakaton share. We honour our pact by working together for power rather than drawing it away for personal glory. So far, it is has been interesting. The leg work has been shared by the two of us and a vast amount of contact has been made.

Our experiences have differed. One such notable person was Lord Seisu Nyash, adopted daughter of Darth Iradox. I've grown accustomed to the Spicy Tea that Purebloods drink. One in particular is a blend that Seisu’s brother, Darth Libertas, overseeing in her family’s name. It is called Doprallian and through sheer constant consumption I have developed a taste for its sharp, earthy punishment. Perhaps my palette prefers it more than Trakaton’s. An amusing concept.

Yet we ever press onwards. I will never forget what Lord Saud told me. She said I needed to be wise to Sith Politics, to understand the flow of power and how to twist people to my needs. It is often ironic that she fell victim to my own traps. A brilliant teacher, I suppose…

End transmission.”

*Hirak waves a hand and walks off screen. The holodiary projector shuts off and the blue light retreats back into its metallic shell.*

[Trakaton Kalkoran]

((originally posted by Hirak Sanguinis, September 2017))

Entry 25: Korriban and the Exile

*Hirak limps into the scene, he is unmasked and in a very bad state. His body looks as if it has been through the works, chomped and chewed out or at least his gait and his facial expression offers that feeling. Hiraks face radiates rage after he sits down in front of the holorecorder. The red eyes burn with sheer hatred and fury, his entire face grimaces into an ungodly, nasty expression.*

“Zarrious will die. He will be buried and put away for good. The damn bastard meddles too much, he interferes with EVERYTHING! If it were up to me we would deal with him in the standard way a Rattataki would with a Blothan Wersoo, a blood war. But the Empire has laws, it has it’s ways and now with Empress Acina in charge such infighting is frowned upon.

We will need to plan our attack carefully.”

*Hirak sighs loudly before bringing his hands to his face, rubbing the whole front part of his head with the palms of his hand.*

“It happened like this. I had spent the last few days, weeks even, fighting other apprentices in the pits of Korriban - ranging from strangers to those within House Vossen whom I had met on many occasions. Many of these times my master, Darth Horuset, had witnessed my triumph expecting nothing less than a sure victory from his apprentice. I wish to maintain my strength in his eyes… if that ever slips I know my death will follow.

But it was after one of these occasions where Zarrious approached the Dark Lord whilst my colleague Trakaton was still nearby. He goaded us with his words, talking of connections and how Trakaton had visited him. I interjected as did Trakaton and the Dark Lord snapped. He sent us back to Th’Asidra’s bridge so that he might speak with us alone. So we approached the main deck, fuming that Zarrious had slighted us with his devilish, snake like tone and wording only to find the Dark Lord there. He was disappointed, and spoke with rage. He turned on me and Trakaton, lifting us both into the air with the force before choking us almost to death before launching lightning at full strength into our bodies charting them almost instantly before we were launched backwards with a force push to the far end of the bridge. We lay there, barely conscious until someone at some point dragged us to the Med bay.

We lay there, seething whilst Temekel Vipion and Zhaixe Kalkoran tended to our broken bodies. Such hatred had never before seethed between the both of us. Such raw hatred. It was pure and beautiful. Yet, at the time, all I wanted was the exile’s head. Then our master returned and in our barely conscious state he let us give into our darkest desires:

‘You will kill the Exile.’

He told us, his dark presence surrounding us as we seethed in our med bay beds. The tension surrounding our entire being was pushed to the highest level, even Temekel regarded us with a sense of caution as we drifted in and out of consciousness. Trakaton and I were connected by one goal entirely: to wipe Zarrious from the face of existence.

And so we shall, Dark Master, so we shall…”

*Hirak allows the recording to linger on his depraved, hatred filled face. Both eyes wide and wild that sparkle with hope and excitement. Clearly Hirak is taking in multiple emotions but at least one thing is for certain, those red scarred eyes look excited at the prospect of war.*

"Eventually, the two acolytes Elayzek and Zutauha released us from our kolto prison. We had much to discuss and many wished to speak with us seeing as we had spent a full day within a kolto tank without any contact to the outside world. No doubt I seethed the entire day away, my mind spent from the singular nature of my hatred. It had been a long time since anyone had knocked Tokiai off the top list.

For now, we wait - and train. Our vengeance will be absolute."

*Hirak waits a few moments, allowing his eyes to rest upon the recorder's camera lens for dramatic effect. He eventually waves his hand towards it causing the holorecorder shuts off finally, the blue light disappearing back within the emitter*

[Trakaton Kalkoran]

((originally posted by Hirak Sanguinis, October 2017))

Entry 26: Darth Horuset's Might

*Hirak strides into view as the blue light bursts out from the holodiary’s emitter. Dressed in his usual garb, the snugly fit weave covering his whole body with the dress weave hanging off the back at the hip. Shoulder studs adorn the spaulders whilst his Beastmaster mask clings to his face. When Hirak turns to face the projector fully he presses a button that allows his mask to unfurl off his face. He'd offer a sigh and a smirk.*

“Matters have progressed significantly in the last few weeks. Myself and Trakaton dueled our master together. He invited us out deep into the jungle and there the Dark Lord met us in the canopies, ruins and thick overgrowth away from any spying eyes. He stood resolute like a statue, standing before us akin to a god before he spoke in his booming voice.

He told us that he wished to the test our capabilities personally so that he might understand how far his two apprentices had come. To my mind this was a test that myself and Trakaton had yet to face. The full might of our master, the one who trained Lord Saud, Cautus, Zunda, Lord Stygian among others… he had seen much and known much with an age that made ours pale in its wake. He was a monster of the Dark Side. The thought of it made my blood boil with excitement. A true battle worthy of my time.

So we began. I circled behind Trakaton ready to initiate part of our plan. We call it Tandem fighting. It’s a special technique we employ in battle where the both of us are present. Whilst individually we are strong together we present an unstoppable problem.”

*Hirak smirks into the holorecorder before coughing loudly. The excitement clearly brings up an injury still not healed fully. He shakes his head to calm himself down before speaking once more.*

“The Dark Lord opened by force pushing myself and Trakaton away. The power was incredible and our barrier’s popped immediately. Acting by impulse and at my range I attempted to throw my saberstaff at our master, trying to use it to cut his back. He engaged in a duel with Trakaton but turned at the last minute to catch my weapon. Now armed with two blades in Jar’kai, I pulled my second incomplete lightsaber out. Before this I had leaped over the two in an attempt to outflank the Dark Lord.

Engaging again, our master managed to fend off Trakaton and then deal with me. I engaged, fast precise movements of Ataru parried by my masters strength. He then moved back to avoid my strike at his rear as Trakaton re-engaged before trying to leap into action once more, slicing off one of Darth Horuset’s armour spikes in the melee before his departure. Thankfully, in the Dark Lord’s assurance of victory he had not raised a barrier. Like one person in unison, both myself and my colleagues telekinetically slammed the Dark Lord into the ground. He fell under the unexpected weight. But his recovery was swift, driving the two of us off. He then used something I’d never knew existed. He muttered words of incantation before firing what looked like webs  onto Trakaton. He immobilised him completely.

He then offer his focus on me completely, diving into battle again with my own lightsaber. He attempted to leap and impale me, so I rolled to the side and drove Lightning into the ground like the now Lord Venom had taught me long ago. It zig-zagged through the minerals through the earth before jumped at my master. He caught it on my weapon which disabled before he returned to slash at me. Again I moved swiftly utilising inertia and my ability to dodge. Once more the Dark Lord chanted before firing balls of dark side energy at me. One ball struck but not before I threw my ignited lightsaber at him, the blade cutting across the Dark Lord’s armour and flesh to wound him. If I had more time… no, I'll remove that thought.

I collapsed unable to move from the pain. His strength was incredible and it took everything we had to do it. From there our master approached Trakaton and touched his shoulder, telling him to stab me in the leg. Unbound from the spell, Trakaton was forced against his will somehow to stab me. The pain was excruciating…”

*Hirak instinctively touches his leg where the pain had been felt, no doubt the wound completely healed now.*

“The Dark Lord stabbed Trakaton himself. And we were left to find our own way back. His words echoed as I drifted between consciousness.

‘If you return alive, you will be worthy as my apprentices and I will give you that which you most desire.’

So eventually after we had recovered our energy, we made splints from vines and wood before hobbling back through the jungles warily to the estate. Disheveled we returned and met or Master in the spire. He beckoned us forward, saying indeed we were worthy. We would replace and remove his other apprentices Lord Stygian and Lord Begeren. We could only use what could be fit in a shuttle and imperial forces could not show either. Those were the rules and both myself and Trakaton grinned at the prospect….

They both will die. And we shall replace them. End transmission.”

*Hirak waves a hand at the holorecorder before allowing it to shut off. The blue light disappears back into the machine signalling the end of the recording.*

[Trakaton Kalkoran]

((originally posted by Hirak Sanguinis, October 2017))

Entry 27: Ilum, Sith Cautus and Elayzek's Death


*Hirak’s full form is in view as the holoprojector turns on. He stands there in his regular garb. The beast-like mask adorned over his head like a carapace, the skull decoration at the front visible as usual. The taut clothing stretches over his body to reveal his compact, strong form the offers more practical muscle than bulk. Hirak allows his hands to curl over into a fold sitting underneath his pectorals.*

“I have been silent due to leaving this holodiary behind in the Kalkoran estate. A few weeks ago our frigate transporters moving crystal from Ilum were attacked and downed by pirates in the sector. In outrage, my master mobilised the forces of his fleet and set a course for Ilum.

So we docked, boarded Th’Asidra and left. The overseers made it a fun sport to check our belongings for contraband due to the sudden deployment, we had little time to bring anything wasteful. Thankfully, due to Th’Kirti and Th’Ssra, I was able to store everything I needed aboard those vessels safely in the hands of those that served the Kalkoran Powerbase.

The journey was long and for a good while we simply trained. I spent most of the time avoiding the darker parts of the ship. Despite the supposed peace I still feared the incitig the Wrath of those in a position higher than me. Since the second alien conspiracy I am sure they would go to great lengths to… harm myself and my colleague.

During these long days in the ship, I found myself simply breaking up acolyte fights or practicing my Subjugate upon them and my fellow apprentices. Training alongside other apprentices has kept the fire going. Elayzek had been keeping me very much up to date on the situations evolving in the house; alliances between acolytes, where apprentices were leaning in terms of their thoughts. A useful tool he had become…”

*Hirak’s tone seemed bitter with a slight twist of remorse.*

“Regardless, we landed on the ice planet and got to work. The Dark Lord immediately took Trakaton and I into the depths of his crystal cave alongside the Captain Koren and a few of his marines, their names were lost on me however.

It was there when the Marines were sent away to gather materials that the Dark Lord gave us his order. Tired of the way that Sith Cautus had been running his name through the mud, he tasked us with teaching his humility. And when the Dark Lord says humility he means beat him to a bloody pulp.

So we prepared ourselves, went back to the main encampment only to encounter the Sith himself. Offering to show him the location of the Houses’ crystal mining operation, we trekked back together to where we got our mission. After… humouring him about his obsession with crystals we offered to explore the ruined Jedi temple that extended out further into the cave. Agreeing, Cautus came with us until we ventured a little further to the entrance. We stopped and I moved to take my datapad. Then, as the Pureblood’s back was turned I played our orders from my datapad. The Dark Lord’s voice rang out, a haunting reverberation. I'll play the message now:

-”Hunt down my pathetic offspring and teach him a lesson … and remind him what happened to his sister.”-

At the horror of this realisation dawned on Cautus he screamed that we were the traitors. Hah! What a fool, we follow his father’s orders. He should've stood there like a dog and taken it. But he decided to fight back. As he spoke, we leapt in. His lightning struck and we deflected it to the ground. Whilst he focused his attention on contorting Trakaton’s mind I struck his left flank with my blade, causing a shiim strike to his arm. Trakaton then broke out and struck his other side as he failed to deal with our double onslaught. Eventually, Cautus was bested and he lay slumped on the ground barely conscious whilst myself and Trakaton remained very much unscathed. It was a beautiful turn of divine justice and I savoured every moment of it.

So, to make sure our actions weren't condemned by the more… arrogant and irrational Sith in the powerbase we broadcasted our master’s orders on the holocall network so all knew what had happened and that we acted on the Dark Lords orders. Those who defied him were put in their place. So we left Cautus there in the dark, damp and icy cold cave. He was eventually picked up by Lord Saud, among others and brought back to the forward camp.

This caused severe tension among a few of the other apprentices. Namely Occularis and Temekel, who both had their… reservations for the worm. I sensed their anger and whilst initially it seemed aimed at us, there was a growing dislike towards to Dark Lord too. It's best if this plays out that way so that his useful apprentices aren’t witch-hunted.”

*Hirak offers a severe cough, his mask reverberation as he does so. Eventually, he allows a silence to sink in before speaking once more.*

“At the end of our time on Ilum I was having a chat with Zaryaa about aiding her with a task. As she was now a consolidated Kalkoran alongside Trakaton’s cousin Zhaixe and Zaryaa’s twin Zrisin. Hmm… perhaps too many Zed names for my liking. Reminds me of…”

*Hirak cuts off and then shakes his head. His hands curl into fists before he then continues to speak.*

“Anyway, I got a motivation of a steaming session from Elayzek. He foolishly followed Soyut Vipion and Tashha alone into a cave. There he was killed for his arrogance. Left to die in a cave with mortal wounds. A pity… he had been useful. Perhaps another will take his place… who knows. But that Cathar is dead. I felt a little empty.. and angry to begin with. He was my property. I fought to mold him into a tool.

So me and Trakaton met them half way on their return and spoke with both Soyut and Tashha. Not many words were mingled, simply put I was given some reasons I could not argue against and due to the circumstance of Sith I've moved on. I will remember this slight, though.

So we all boarded Th’Asidra whilst the Cathar remained duly frozen in the wastes of Ilum. We left the space and headed home. In that time there were two attacks. One where we boarded an enemy frigate only to decimate it’s insides and clear out any resistance. The second I was only party to, but I know it was a heavy battle in the hangar deck of Th’Asidra. Two mechs were broken and captured when I went downstairs. The Lorekeeper and others were too busy identifying the corpses so me and Trakaton went and stole the mechs onto Th’Ssra to be used for our own purposes once we’d fixed them. No doubt they’ll come in handy.

Eventually we arrived back on home territory. Not a moment too soon, I had been itching to get off the ship especially  as tensions were high. No doubt i’d expect retaliation of some kind. Who wouldn't? For now I'll be cautious and do as I'm told.

End transmission.”

*Hirak wave a hand as the holoprojector fades and his body disappears from view, the blue light sinking back down into the machine.*

[Trakaton Kalkoran]

((originally posted by Hirak Sanguinis, October 2017))

Entry 28: The Vossen Party

*Hirak enters into frame as the holoprojector explodes into action. He’d bring a hand up rub the back of his neck, pressing a button on the side of his neck as he pulls his hand back allowing the mask to unfurl off his face and into the implant. Hirak’s face appears worn out and his red eyes falter in light, growing dull in colour.*

“I'll be swift as I'm very tired, although brevity won't do it it's due justice. I was just at the Party of Houses hosted by Darth Vossen, a very respectable and prestigious Dark Lord who is a contact of mine and Trakaton. She holds herself well, and organised a fantastic evening.

Upon entry we were greeted personally and offered drinks. I found myself confronted with Darth Iradox, who’s daughter was a potential interest of marriage for Trakaton. In fact, it was at that party that they first met. I digress however…

Following a lengthy speech made by Darth Vossen herself, I found myself speaking with members of House Kallea, the Nyâsh Directive, House Raeth and a few others. Whilst the topics were intriguing it became apparent none truly wanted conversation. So I moved on.

Eventually I found myself at the will of my Master and Dark Lord, Darth Horuset. He ordered me to fight someone, so I challenged those in the main fighting pit room. Only a Sith Lord took a step forward, and we sparred. The man was strong and I fought hard, keeping toe to toe with him until he threw me into the wall and ended the duel. I was proud and I believe my master was too even if he did huff then walk out. So I continued upstairs.

I spoke with Darth Vossen and her Lordly apprentice. Both were affable, enjoyable to talk to and rational Sith. They applauded me and it was well received, I am not beyond the compliments of others. And to come from the host herself? I felt very good.”

*Hirak I clipped both of his gauntlets and took them off, placing them down on a table nearby. He then rubbed his face with his bare hands.*

“I decided to go find my colleague who had spent the whole evening talking to one person, his love interest Aregra Nyâsh, the daughter of The Dark Lord. She is of course a Pureblood. I have yet to make my mind up on her, so I will make sure I do so if the proposal I set up is accepted. I found them both in one of the smaller rooms conversing so I introduced myself. Apparently Trakaton had already told her about me… unsurprisingly so. She introduced herself and the conversation began before her father entered. Now, I do not ask but I am curious of her Father’s human appearance. Whilst I do not know now I shall find out one way or another. It is most intriguing.

Regardless, the Darth interrupted the conversation and made mention that my Master spoke highly of me. This came as a shock, I had not expected to learn of such. Perhaps my efforts to please him were not in vain. We shall see.

But regardless the party quickly disappeared by the end of the evening and that is when I returned. No doubt this blossoming relationship that Aregra now offers my colleague will brew some intrigue. I just hope the Dark Lord accepts the offer.

End transmission.”

*The holoprojector switches off as the last vestiges of blue light disappear down into the device's shell.*

[Trakaton Kalkoran]

((originally posted by Hirak Sanguinis, October 2017))

Entry 29: Wayland and Atrum’s Wrath


*Hirak enters into the frame as the blue light of the holoprojector buzzes into action. He stood stoically and proudly with his hands loosely held on his hips. His mask would be off, allowing a smug smirk creeping into his lips.*

“Darth Iradox set Trakaton a task. A task one might think is almost impossible. To judge my colleague and mine’s worth as Sith who can get things done, he’s asked us for a way to help bump up repairs on the Atrum Wrath in a space dock in imperial space.

Naturally, our own agents as well as ourselves set out to figure out where and when was the best place for this operation. For the sake of compromise in case this ever falls into the wrong hands, I'll keep the name of our troubleshooter disclosed. He’s efficient to say the least.

Eventually, it fell to two choices: Shipmaster Kenning of Tulu or Shipmaster Terrin of Wayland. Alongside the information gathered, we eventually decided that the Shipmaster of Wayland would be a more pliable point of interest. For you see, he had some considerable financial debt due to the war with Zakuul and some terrible… terrible choices. A vice for some, making considerably bad choices. Like an addiction, they always appear to be at the wrong place at the wrong time. Even more so for Shipmaster Terrin who’s love for expensive wines, and I mean inexplicable love, had driven him to the point of considerable desperation.”

*Hirak then kneels down seemingly and picks up what looks like to be a bottle of wine, stored inside a fine vessel to protect it during space travel. He turns the bottle over, surveying it with some assurance in his expression.*

“So, we reached out to the Shipmaster. We explained very calmly that we as the Dark Lord of Horuset’s apprentices would like to discuss further terms with him over the course of a dinner. He remained skeptical at first, if not appreciative of the gesture. As Sith, our authority is absolute, but as a Shipmaster of a dock he was… less than inclined to leave. At this point, we flexed our political muscles; we mentioned a stock reserve in a fine wine collection from the heart of the Empire, stating that we -always- served this for our dinner guests. I believe he fell enamored immediately, swiftly accepting our summons.

So, we wined and dined him until he was giddy and full of his toxin; tipsy and almost on the verge of a drunken state. Then, utilising the images of both our own Dark Lord, Darth Iradox and many Dark Lords who considered us allies, we put these holo-images before the Shipmaster as a way of instilling fear into his intoxicated, shrivelled mind. We insisted he allow us access to the front of the queue at his dock for repairs citing these important figures as those who backed our decision. He was terrified, scared at this sudden surprise in a vulnerable state. Yet, we assured him that if he did as instructed he’d be serving the best nature of the Empire and as such deserved a strong reward.

At this moment, we called in one of the servants who brought an extra crate. I am sure that I need not say anymore on how that went down. In essence, his silence and his security was bought. Fear can be a wonderful thing... but joy. Now, joy and faith can promote an entire system to follow you.

And then Trakaton reported it to Darth Iradox. One assumes that Nyash flagship, the Atrum’s Wrath, has been swiftly towed to the spaceport to begin repairs. Assumingly, such news and success went down a treat with the Dark Lord. Whilst we’re on that thought, it might be a wise move to see if Th’Asidra can be transferred to the same dock for repairs after our Ilum excursion seeing as it suffered some rather extensive damage.”

*Hirak’s hairless brows furrow as he looks down towards the floor in thought. He taps his chin a few times to indicate his mind racing, before he shakes his head.*

“I have my doubts. Surely my master will want it repaired in a dock of his choosing? A discussion to be had with my colleague no doubt.

However, Trakaton is out of the estate at the moment. He’s gone to speak with Darth Iradox directly after the Dark Lord had seemingly read the report we gave him. Perhaps we will see if my design has achieved what it was meant to? Time will tell. Perhaps Trakaton will be bold this day.

End the session.”

*Hirak smirks wildly as he places the bottle of wine back down before motioning for the holo-projector to stop recording. Eventually the blue light disappears back into the machine, where it promptly shuts itself off.*

[Trakaton Kalkoran]

((originally posted by Hirak Sanguinis, October 2017))

Entry 30: Lord Stygian and Lord Begeren


*Hirak steps into the frame of the holoprojector, the blue light illuminating his form completely before he strafes, walking and clearly thinking in front of the blue light. He’d be in his fully battle armour, duranium plating protecting both his front, his shoulders, his back and most of his legs and arms. His helmet would glow in the dim light with his red piercing eyes staring out. Of course, the colouration of both his suit and his gaze would be lost on the blue-hue of the projector, but the glowing effect is still fairly noticeable. Eventually, Hirak moves a hand up to the left hand side of his neck, the mask itself folding off his face within seven seconds before disappearing into the implant on his pale neck. The Rattataki’s face droops almost, a clear sign of exhaustion. His hairless brows furrow deeply as he then finally folds his arms in front of his chest.*

“I have achieved all that I had set out to achieve since becoming an acolyte, since the founding of the Shadow Hand, becoming one of the True Hand of Horuset and finally as the Dark Lord’s apprentice. I wished only to excel, to show I am worthy of the great honour of living I was given by my master and that I could honour the legacy of the Sith with my skill.

As I mentioned a few entries ago, my master had set myself and Apprentice Trakaton the opportunity to destroy two of his errant Sith Lord apprentices. Now, I’ve known for a while that Lord Stygian had a connection close to my master, and I have hated him every single day for it. Yet, Lord Begeren was a mystery to myself and Trakaton. At the end of the day, he took the harder job of facing off against a mysterious foe. I, on the other hand, choose to rest my vengeance against this pretender and prove to Darth Horuset that I am far more worthy as an apprentice to him.

So we planned. No one was told of our venture until we started it. We’d strike at the same time. Two attacks at the same time, the simultaneous completion would mean one could not help the other. One would not be prepared by the first. The other would be kept unaware.

As for me… well, my plan extended somewhat further than Trakaton’s. You see, we had already scouted the world that Stygian had used as his home. We had been there before. Trakaton himself had scouted it only a few weeks earlier before we had headed to Ilum. I had accurate data, and alongside my master’s orders that we were only to take what we could fit inside a transport ship I had concocted the perfect plan.”

*Hirak moves hand to his face and rubs his mouth. He’d cough lightly, clearing his throat.*

“I positioned a singular terminus-class destroyer behind the system’s sun to mask it’s register from the bases’ radars. No doubt Stygian had some, so we had to be careful. From there, we began ferrying troops down in singular transports. It took a while but it was specific manoeuvre that allowed me the time and space to prepare. Upon our entry at 5km outside the base, we set up a forward base camp. This base would be my personal HQ for the operation, where most of the marines I had brought as well as my own special unit known as the ‘Beastmaster Marines’ would prepare for our assault. All of my marines were equipped with custom DLA-13 rifles which had grenade launcher attachments and for this specific operation, due to my master’s explicit desire to retain full control of a working base when I was finished, we attached Ion Grenades to the launchers. In total I had 540 soldiers on the ground, combat ready and prepared to give their lives for my success and each had been ferried in one singular transport shuttle each. So in that regard, I had everything set in place…

My plan was set, no communication could get in or out and everything was seemingly fine for those within the facility. Once that was confirmed, the assault began. Offering up my troops towards the enemies fortress, we stormed it with speed and tenacity before the enemy silencer was set off essentially disabling my tanks that I had so kindly prepared as a surprise during the approach. Luckily, most of my men were on the wall before they could still utilise their weapons.

Eventually, after a few losses the walls were ours and we began the ground assault. I had positioned three look-a-likes around the wall, those who looked exactly like me. Nobody knew that none of them were actually myself because I always wear a mask. So, we slaughtered those in the compound and secured the roof landing section. Upon that selected spot, my beasts came down and landed in a shuttle alongside some of my bestmaster marines. Yet, I was there hidden with a Stealth Field Generator belt. This was in preparation for any of Stygian’s surprises, anything that would be odd and beyond that which would be rational. I had no doubt that something would be amiss… that my master had more planned for me than I thought originally possible. After all, I may have been a loyal and successful apprentice. But I am an alien in his eyes, and for that I will always be damned. I suppose I am lucky that they will always see me as weak…”

*Hirak shakes his head somewhat, staring down to the ground before his own eyes burn with a sudden deep hatred, they glow irrationally on the holoprojector before he looks back up.*

“I digress. Stygian did let out all of his Rakghouls. I had a feeling that his research facility might contain some… residue from our previous encounters with these beasts. The Rakghoul facility is something I’ve not mentioned but it was a previous encounter. Regardless, they posed a threat so most of my forces retreated to higher ground to deal with them whilst my beasts an my clones focused on the inner doorway.

The guards were dealt with swiftly by the front door. I had made my Yozusk’s crest fully from Duranium. It was enough to deal with the blasters. Eventually, the doors swung open and Stygian appeared. He was a hateful man and I seethed behind my clones to make sure their presence could be felt. Immediately, they did as I commanded to drag him out of the room whilst the mech suit, a complete suit of Cortosis myself and my colleague gained during the Ilum embargo, rushed forward to deal with the errant Sith Lord. After a struggle and utilising effect uses of Force Pull, Lord Stygian was unable to keep up with the onslaught my forces offered before he fell and was cut to pieces in no time at all whilst I had yet to lift a finger myself.

So, with the main threat out of the way we stormed the main room in order to access the entire station. Stygian’s apprentice was knocked down and kept away for safekeeping - I might use that fool later. I tried to access the main station area, although my original plan of keeping Stygian alive had not worked so he couldn’t access it for me. A minor hiccup… not one that I wanted but I’d rather he be dead than anything go wrong. As I tried to enter the password in with my clones, they pressed something that was… well, it set off an alarm. With that in mind, I retreated back onto my shuttle and returned to HQ. Watching from the feed, I sent in my mercenary ship and my interceptors, all reworked aesthetically to look like pirate ships rather than Imperial vessels, to come swooping over the facility. Hundreds of droids were released so I pelted them whilst making sure that zero structural damage was caused.

Within a couple of hours the facility was mine, Stygian lay dead at my feet and I had done that which my master had wanted. Although, I was mindful of the damage caused so we spent the next Twenty-Four hours repairing the facility. It was ironic really, Trakaton eventually messaged me on the holo-com near the end of our repairs. He told me he had successfully defeated Lord Begeren. Apparently his plan had offered success, which I was pleased to hear. I suppose that has always been the difference between myself and him. Our methods differ yet our thoughts are one and the same: succeed or die.

So we returned together to Th’Asidra to greet our master personally. We presented him the lightsabers of our foes, their flags and a holoimage of the facilities capture. We even had our own speeches prepared. I recorded mine, would you like to hear?”

*Hirak chuckles loudly, the full opening of his mouth revealing his sharp teeth.*

“You don’t really get a say in the matter, truly…”

*Hirak reaches for his datapad, pressing a few buttons before Hirak’s own robotic familiar voice is heard speaking. The tone offered is serious, and one of great pride. As it plays, Hirak’s face contorts into a nostalgic smile as he closes his eyes, seemingly enjoying the moment.*

“ - Dark Master, I have done as you commanded - I have dismantled the once Lord Stygian, conquered his powerbase and will remake it into an image truly worthy of your will, a design fit for your reputation. I have usurped his mantle by force and by my own strength. You have tempered me to be a weapon, Master, now allow me to be a political dreadnought for you. Let me be an example of your manipulation, let them fear the seemingly changing Horuset mindset. Allow me to be a demonstration that even lesser races under your thumb are more capable than theirs and how willing we are to defend the old ways and your methods. When they defy your will, let them see that an Alien Lord stands by you so that they have no basis to undermine your strategy. Grant me this honour, Master, and I will keep those like  Darth Nyeklas, Darth Vossen and Darth Dreyar bound to you through sheer admiration and pride at your creation. I will show those like House Raeth and any other who stand against you that our reason is absolute, our power unbreakable and that the Old Ways beget the final victory for the Sith and the Empire. -”

*Hirak presses a button and allows the datapad to shut off. He opens his eyes and looks back into the camera of the holoprojector.*

“And so my master made me a Sith Lord, alongside Trakaton. I am now… Lord Sanguinis. Fitting, I thought. Fitting in the sense that I am Lord Blood yet to my master and his servants I am impure. I suppose instead I’ll cleave his enemies with my weapon instead, until he deems me ready to die… then I’ll kill all he sends at me. Such is the way of the Sith, and as a Lord now I am awaiting it. If I live further than the coming days that is, for Zarrious’ fate comes first. With only a day or so before we enact our plan… I need to savour this moment regardless. Even as House Kalkoran is made a vassal to the Horusets, we still remain strong.

Who knows what the future will hold. But for now, I am a Lord of the Sith. The only recognised Alien Lord of the Sith in House Horuset. I have spent so long working my way up and now it’s finally be achieved. No doubt I will need to be on full alert around Saud and Tokiai from now on. Once more, my presence shall irk them... as amusing as that prospect is. We shall see how the remaining apprentices feel about this sudden change in the political atmosphere too. It will be a most interesting time for sure...

I will savour this moment for now, and then I will return to my usual self. I have earned that much.

End transmission.”

*Hirak waits for a moment in place before he waves his right hand at the holoprojector. A huge grin on his face still as the light disappear down into the device again before it completely shuts off. An air vain arrogance can still be felt even as the blue rays of the projector disappear. That lingering feeling almost feels part and parcel with the entry as if it bonded to the device.*