"Deneba Campus: Krath Core"
I-Introduction
“Let the Obelisk die in battle, and the Sith bicker over their tarnished crowns. In the end, they will only know what we choose to teach them. That is the greatest power of all”.
That quote, extracted from the Brotherhood’s Codex, illustrates the role of the Krath Order quite well: mysterious, cunning and deceitful, the Krath are often advisors to those in charge, standing in a comfortable and darkened spot behind the seats of power.
Despite their position as advisors, the Krath are the most mistrusted of the three Orders due to a few logical reasons: first, those who know the history of the Order are aware that its origin is filled with betrayal and manipulation. Also, the Sith and Obelisk are warrior-like orders and, as such, they absorb notions like honor and comradeship that come from working as a unity against a similarly organized foe on the battlefield. Such notions are alien to the Krath, because for this Order all that matters is true power. “True power”, for the more mature members of the Krath, does not translate into leadership or military might, because they realize that social position and strength of arms are temporal and ephemeral at best. Knowledge, in its various forms, is the true power sought by the scholarly members of the Order: knowledge of the Force, knowledge of the Dark Side, knowledge of one’s weaknesses, knowledge of rituals, alchemy and spells… if there is knowledge worth pursuing, a Krath is certainly after it. The individual who sees and understands the invisible strings that bind and fuel the galaxy is able to control his own destiny. Knowledge grants clarity, and with that comes the possibility of change and control, true freedom – the essence of the Dark Side.
The paths that the Krath take in their pursuit for knowledge and power leads them to places where the Sith and Obelisk would rather not venture into: most members of the Sith and Obelisk seek knowledge for practical reasons, knowledge as a way towards their ultimate goals of conquest and power. Thus, their research usually ends when they’ve found the “perfect strategy”, or the “perfect weapon”, for their plans. The clearest example would be Darth Revan’s search for the Rakata culture and the Star Forge: the ancient Sith spent years in a quest for lore, but once he found what he wanted he launched his attack against the Republic. For him knowledge was the key to a “higher” goal, as it is too many members of the Sith and Obelisk of today. The Krath, on the other hand, view knowledge not as a way towards a goal, but as the goal itself: they embark in a never-ending quest, always starving for more information and always devising new experiments to further push the limits of their wisdom, going at greater depths than most members of the Sith and Obelisk would. This practical difference increases the distance between the Orders.
Due to these characteristics, the Krath are often seen as “dark mystics”, Dark Jedi of great knowledge and wisdom concerned with the more pure aspects of the Dark Side. This is often associated with writing, but many Krath also explore different areas of interest: the need to know all often takes the most reclusive scholar into the field. Dark Side Adept Korras, former Obelisk High Commander, initiated his career as a Krath: his interest and fascination for battle were so intense that, eventually, made him change Orders. Archpriest al’Lan Mandragoran, before losing his sanity, was known as a duelist who considered sword fighting an art form. Not every member of the Krath can be described simply as an “enigmatic bookworm”, as some outspoken Obelisk apprentices often say.
In the past, each Order had a leader with a seat in the Dark Council. During his second reign, Grand Master Jac Cotelin, in a move to improve the overall efficiency of the Council and the Brotherhood as a whole, launched a project called “Dark Council Amalgamation” which, among other measures, dissolved the position of the Order Leaders. Before the Amalgamation, the Krath were led by the Krath High Priest. The last leader the Order had was Krath High Priestess Telona Murrage, who remained in the position until it was dissolved in January 25th, 2006. For fictional purposes the Order Leader positions still exist, and a fictional (currently unnamed) character fills the role.
That quote, extracted from the Brotherhood’s Codex, illustrates the role of the Krath Order quite well: mysterious, cunning and deceitful, the Krath are often advisors to those in charge, standing in a comfortable and darkened spot behind the seats of power.
Despite their position as advisors, the Krath are the most mistrusted of the three Orders due to a few logical reasons: first, those who know the history of the Order are aware that its origin is filled with betrayal and manipulation. Also, the Sith and Obelisk are warrior-like orders and, as such, they absorb notions like honor and comradeship that come from working as a unity against a similarly organized foe on the battlefield. Such notions are alien to the Krath, because for this Order all that matters is true power. “True power”, for the more mature members of the Krath, does not translate into leadership or military might, because they realize that social position and strength of arms are temporal and ephemeral at best. Knowledge, in its various forms, is the true power sought by the scholarly members of the Order: knowledge of the Force, knowledge of the Dark Side, knowledge of one’s weaknesses, knowledge of rituals, alchemy and spells… if there is knowledge worth pursuing, a Krath is certainly after it. The individual who sees and understands the invisible strings that bind and fuel the galaxy is able to control his own destiny. Knowledge grants clarity, and with that comes the possibility of change and control, true freedom – the essence of the Dark Side.
The paths that the Krath take in their pursuit for knowledge and power leads them to places where the Sith and Obelisk would rather not venture into: most members of the Sith and Obelisk seek knowledge for practical reasons, knowledge as a way towards their ultimate goals of conquest and power. Thus, their research usually ends when they’ve found the “perfect strategy”, or the “perfect weapon”, for their plans. The clearest example would be Darth Revan’s search for the Rakata culture and the Star Forge: the ancient Sith spent years in a quest for lore, but once he found what he wanted he launched his attack against the Republic. For him knowledge was the key to a “higher” goal, as it is too many members of the Sith and Obelisk of today. The Krath, on the other hand, view knowledge not as a way towards a goal, but as the goal itself: they embark in a never-ending quest, always starving for more information and always devising new experiments to further push the limits of their wisdom, going at greater depths than most members of the Sith and Obelisk would. This practical difference increases the distance between the Orders.
Due to these characteristics, the Krath are often seen as “dark mystics”, Dark Jedi of great knowledge and wisdom concerned with the more pure aspects of the Dark Side. This is often associated with writing, but many Krath also explore different areas of interest: the need to know all often takes the most reclusive scholar into the field. Dark Side Adept Korras, former Obelisk High Commander, initiated his career as a Krath: his interest and fascination for battle were so intense that, eventually, made him change Orders. Archpriest al’Lan Mandragoran, before losing his sanity, was known as a duelist who considered sword fighting an art form. Not every member of the Krath can be described simply as an “enigmatic bookworm”, as some outspoken Obelisk apprentices often say.
In the past, each Order had a leader with a seat in the Dark Council. During his second reign, Grand Master Jac Cotelin, in a move to improve the overall efficiency of the Council and the Brotherhood as a whole, launched a project called “Dark Council Amalgamation” which, among other measures, dissolved the position of the Order Leaders. Before the Amalgamation, the Krath were led by the Krath High Priest. The last leader the Order had was Krath High Priestess Telona Murrage, who remained in the position until it was dissolved in January 25th, 2006. For fictional purposes the Order Leader positions still exist, and a fictional (currently unnamed) character fills the role.
II-History of the Order
The history of the Krath extends into the eons, and is shadowed in the mists of history. Its deepest roots spring from the most primitive of civilizations. The Force was born (or gave birth to – the theories vary) into the life of the universe and as this life grew it began to use this power. The most ancient force sensitive individuals were the shamans, wizards, and priests of ancient days.
Then there were no differences between the Light and Dark Side – such concepts were still unknown at the time. The ancient users simply knew they had magical powers and did not question it. In time, those who had powers began to use them for their own purposes. Their dark hearts filled with greed and lust for lordship. This is where the Dark Side, as we know it, started to take form.
As seen with any ideologies, groups with opposite ideals came forth to question the primitive Dark Side users. Many started to oppose the selfish and destructive uses of the Force, and they were considered heroes by the common people. Until hyperspace travel started to connect the planets of the galaxy, these different groups were limited in what they learned.
Hyperspace travel is the defining point in the spread of both the Light and Dark Side of the Force. As civilizations interacted with one another they gained knowledge. It was a slow process, but with the increased interaction between different cultures the Force Adepts, those force sensitive individuals who did not follow an organized philosophy group, grew in power and understanding of the Force. Eventually they began to form orders and organizations structured around similar ideals. Many millennia before the Great Jedi War, the Jedi Knights were formed to help keep the peace and to collectively debate the Force.
Those who tampered with what was considered the darker arts were forced out of the Knights and exiled to the distant planet of Korriban. The Sith race awaited them. It was here that the truly powerful and pure users of the Dark Side flourished. They taught their dark arts to the exiled Jedi Knights. Eventually the two species mingled and the Sith, as a species, vanished into history. The Sith, as a name to be recognized and feared, was born.
Under the guidance of one Marka Ragnos, the magicians of the Dark Side flourished. These are considered by some as the earliest of the Krath, though they did not call themselves by that name. Ludo Kressh was a follower of the teachings of Ragnos and would have become the next Dark Lord were it not for his battle with Naga Sadow.
The Sith magicians melted into the darkness of the galaxy, silently continuing their craft and teaching the followers of the dark arts who wished a deeper connection with the Force. Freedon Nadd was a powerful user of the dark magic who learned his trade from the spirit of Naga Sadow and Marka Ragnos. He attempted to create a new Sith Empire on Onderon, but the Jedi Masters of the time defeated him.
Then there were no differences between the Light and Dark Side – such concepts were still unknown at the time. The ancient users simply knew they had magical powers and did not question it. In time, those who had powers began to use them for their own purposes. Their dark hearts filled with greed and lust for lordship. This is where the Dark Side, as we know it, started to take form.
As seen with any ideologies, groups with opposite ideals came forth to question the primitive Dark Side users. Many started to oppose the selfish and destructive uses of the Force, and they were considered heroes by the common people. Until hyperspace travel started to connect the planets of the galaxy, these different groups were limited in what they learned.
Hyperspace travel is the defining point in the spread of both the Light and Dark Side of the Force. As civilizations interacted with one another they gained knowledge. It was a slow process, but with the increased interaction between different cultures the Force Adepts, those force sensitive individuals who did not follow an organized philosophy group, grew in power and understanding of the Force. Eventually they began to form orders and organizations structured around similar ideals. Many millennia before the Great Jedi War, the Jedi Knights were formed to help keep the peace and to collectively debate the Force.
Those who tampered with what was considered the darker arts were forced out of the Knights and exiled to the distant planet of Korriban. The Sith race awaited them. It was here that the truly powerful and pure users of the Dark Side flourished. They taught their dark arts to the exiled Jedi Knights. Eventually the two species mingled and the Sith, as a species, vanished into history. The Sith, as a name to be recognized and feared, was born.
Under the guidance of one Marka Ragnos, the magicians of the Dark Side flourished. These are considered by some as the earliest of the Krath, though they did not call themselves by that name. Ludo Kressh was a follower of the teachings of Ragnos and would have become the next Dark Lord were it not for his battle with Naga Sadow.
The Sith magicians melted into the darkness of the galaxy, silently continuing their craft and teaching the followers of the dark arts who wished a deeper connection with the Force. Freedon Nadd was a powerful user of the dark magic who learned his trade from the spirit of Naga Sadow and Marka Ragnos. He attempted to create a new Sith Empire on Onderon, but the Jedi Masters of the time defeated him.
III-The Birth of the Krath
Four thousand years ago, the Jedi were numerous and powerful throughout the Galaxy, but it was also a time when thousands of force sensitive individuals (including those who had potential to be Jedi knights) were succumbing to the Dark Side's fascination.
In those days there was a star system called the Empress Teta System, named after a woman warlord who, in the early days of space travel, had conquered and united its seven worlds. As the millennia passed the Teta system, which is situated in the deep galactic core, had become the prime source of Carbonite.
The descendants of Empress Teta were still the figurehead rulers of the seven worlds, but they had been forced to share their power, to a large degree, with the commercial interests that had developed the Carbonite mines. Together the Tetan royalty and the wealthy mine owners formed an elite society, a tightly knit group that reigned over multitudes of the less fortunate.
The sons and daughters of these elite were a self indulgent lot, with much leisure time on their hands. As a way of amusing themselves, these young aristocrats began dabbling in the lore of primitive magic.
At some point in their mischievous experiments the young Tetans crossed an invisible threshold and tapped into a stratum of magic that unleashed its malign mental reality with unexpected power. What had started as a game suddenly grew serious, and took on a life of its own.
In the weeks following that day, this sinister power reshaped the minds of the young Tetan elite, and began to transform them into powerful magicians. Under the guidance of Satal Keto, the first of the group to fall, the young Tetans formed a secret society dedicated to the dark arts. They called themselves "The Krath", after a demon from the fairy tales of their youth.
It is widely believed that they ventured to Onderon in search of Freedon Nadd. This would explain how they suddenly grew extremely strong in the Dark Side and its arcane knowledge in such short time. They developed a vast army of droids and warriors alike in but a few years. Yet they kept their numbers secret for as long as they could.
In those days there was a star system called the Empress Teta System, named after a woman warlord who, in the early days of space travel, had conquered and united its seven worlds. As the millennia passed the Teta system, which is situated in the deep galactic core, had become the prime source of Carbonite.
The descendants of Empress Teta were still the figurehead rulers of the seven worlds, but they had been forced to share their power, to a large degree, with the commercial interests that had developed the Carbonite mines. Together the Tetan royalty and the wealthy mine owners formed an elite society, a tightly knit group that reigned over multitudes of the less fortunate.
The sons and daughters of these elite were a self indulgent lot, with much leisure time on their hands. As a way of amusing themselves, these young aristocrats began dabbling in the lore of primitive magic.
At some point in their mischievous experiments the young Tetans crossed an invisible threshold and tapped into a stratum of magic that unleashed its malign mental reality with unexpected power. What had started as a game suddenly grew serious, and took on a life of its own.
In the weeks following that day, this sinister power reshaped the minds of the young Tetan elite, and began to transform them into powerful magicians. Under the guidance of Satal Keto, the first of the group to fall, the young Tetans formed a secret society dedicated to the dark arts. They called themselves "The Krath", after a demon from the fairy tales of their youth.
It is widely believed that they ventured to Onderon in search of Freedon Nadd. This would explain how they suddenly grew extremely strong in the Dark Side and its arcane knowledge in such short time. They developed a vast army of droids and warriors alike in but a few years. Yet they kept their numbers secret for as long as they could.
Ulic Qel-Droma - A Great Jedi of Four Thousand Years Ago
Ulic Qel-Droma was a great Jedi warrior of those days, pure of heart and purpose, without corruption of any kind. Some said he was arrogant, but those who knew him best said he merely possessed unbounded confidence, being very strong in the Ways of the Force.
By the time Ulic Qel-Droma heard of the Krath, they were well on their way to their dark destiny by beginning the construction of a large space armory, having surreptitiously murdered their own parents and staged a political coup, taking control of the seven Tetan worlds. This was a problem for the Jedi Knights, and it fell to Ulic Qel-Droma, as Watchman of the Teta System, to bring the Krath to justice.
But it quickly became obvious that any attempt at arresting the Krath would result in great bloodshed since the Krath possessed space-faring armies. Against every tenet of the Galactic constitution, they declared themselves ready to go to war against the Jedi.
A Jedi assembly was called on Mount Meru, in the desert of Deneba, attended by thousands of Masters who had assumed the primary responsibility for the core systems. Ulic Qel-Droma argued strongly that war was unnecessary and absolutely the wrong way to deal with the power of the Krath: "We are witness to sinister developments... a war with the armies of the Krath might last for years. Many Jedi would die. And what will be gained by this bloodshed? We will have slain thousands, but the Krath themselves will survive, their dark powers intact,” he said.
"I suggest that the Krath coup is a dangerous development that demands special measures. This is the first time, to my knowledge, that the Dark Side of the Force has been used to take large-scale political power. This kind of episode must be stopped before it spreads, and it must be torn out by its very roots. The only way that will happen is if one of us joins the Krath, and learns the secrets of the Darkness that has possessed them and made them powerful,” Ulic concluded.
By the time Ulic Qel-Droma heard of the Krath, they were well on their way to their dark destiny by beginning the construction of a large space armory, having surreptitiously murdered their own parents and staged a political coup, taking control of the seven Tetan worlds. This was a problem for the Jedi Knights, and it fell to Ulic Qel-Droma, as Watchman of the Teta System, to bring the Krath to justice.
But it quickly became obvious that any attempt at arresting the Krath would result in great bloodshed since the Krath possessed space-faring armies. Against every tenet of the Galactic constitution, they declared themselves ready to go to war against the Jedi.
A Jedi assembly was called on Mount Meru, in the desert of Deneba, attended by thousands of Masters who had assumed the primary responsibility for the core systems. Ulic Qel-Droma argued strongly that war was unnecessary and absolutely the wrong way to deal with the power of the Krath: "We are witness to sinister developments... a war with the armies of the Krath might last for years. Many Jedi would die. And what will be gained by this bloodshed? We will have slain thousands, but the Krath themselves will survive, their dark powers intact,” he said.
"I suggest that the Krath coup is a dangerous development that demands special measures. This is the first time, to my knowledge, that the Dark Side of the Force has been used to take large-scale political power. This kind of episode must be stopped before it spreads, and it must be torn out by its very roots. The only way that will happen is if one of us joins the Krath, and learns the secrets of the Darkness that has possessed them and made them powerful,” Ulic concluded.
A Warning From Master Thon
Many other Jedi warned Ulic against the foolhardy enterprise he had conceived. Master Thon of Ambria spoke very eloquently of the Jedi path:
"Ulic, my friend... the Dark Side has been with us since the beginning, and there is much accumulated understanding about its nature. But never forget-- there is the Way of a Jedi... and there is the path that leads to destruction. A Jedi who takes up the path of the Dark Side is no longer a Jedi. He who learns the Dark Way will become infected with Darkness. His judgment will become clouded and he will forget the good things he has learned. If he persists in this attempt to bridge the two divergent roads, he will be torn apart in his very being. Do not underestimate the Power of the Dark Side... at all cost; do not underestimate the Power of the Dark Side!"
But Ulic Qel-Droma was convinced he had discovered the best way to conquer the opponents of the Jedi. And as Watchman of the Teta System, he had the right, and the obligation, to proceed according to his own judgment. An attack upon Deneba and the death of Master Arca only hardened his resolve to destroy the Krath.
So Ulic Qel-Droma disguised his identity and merged with the social life of Cinnagar, the largest city in the seven worlds. Eventually, after many months, he found his way into the friendship and confidence of the ruling elite. Ulic Qel-Droma became a Krath.
"Ulic, my friend... the Dark Side has been with us since the beginning, and there is much accumulated understanding about its nature. But never forget-- there is the Way of a Jedi... and there is the path that leads to destruction. A Jedi who takes up the path of the Dark Side is no longer a Jedi. He who learns the Dark Way will become infected with Darkness. His judgment will become clouded and he will forget the good things he has learned. If he persists in this attempt to bridge the two divergent roads, he will be torn apart in his very being. Do not underestimate the Power of the Dark Side... at all cost; do not underestimate the Power of the Dark Side!"
But Ulic Qel-Droma was convinced he had discovered the best way to conquer the opponents of the Jedi. And as Watchman of the Teta System, he had the right, and the obligation, to proceed according to his own judgment. An attack upon Deneba and the death of Master Arca only hardened his resolve to destroy the Krath.
So Ulic Qel-Droma disguised his identity and merged with the social life of Cinnagar, the largest city in the seven worlds. Eventually, after many months, he found his way into the friendship and confidence of the ruling elite. Ulic Qel-Droma became a Krath.
Warrior, Magus, And the Lord of the Sith
What happened next is not completely known. According to a few surviving Jedi Holocrons, Ulic Qel-Droma disappeared from view for a number of years. The other Jedi Masters tried to locate him, using all the mental powers at their disposal, but each time they attempted to penetrate the cloak of dark power that enveloped the sanctums of the Krath they came up against “a wall of thought like blackest iron," and could advance no further.
Ulic’s arrival in Teta coincided with the political struggle among the Krath leadership. The Krath were splitting into groups, one dominated by Satal Keto, the founder. The second group was dominated by Satal's cousin Aleema, a woman whose Dark Side powers included the ability to create mass hallucinations. Qel-Droma was overcome by the sorcery and beauty of Aleema. He killed Satal Keto and took the powerful sorceress as his lover, becoming the first Krath High Priest.
The power of Satal Keto and Aleema drew the attention of Exar Kun, a Jedi obsessed with the Dark Side. After overcoming Freedon Nadd’s spirit and with the knowledge of Naga Sadow, he traveled to the Teta system to destroy Satal and Aleema. When he found that Qel-Droma had defeated Satal he began a most powerful battle with the Krath. Marka Ragnos’ spirit rose once more to end the battle and declared Kun the Sith Lord and Qel-Droma his apprentice.
The Lord and his apprentice went into hiding for years. While in hiding they grew in power and strength. Ulic took command of the Mandalorians after beating their leader and added them to the Krath army. Kun also lured Jedi Knights to him and turned them against their own masters, thus decreasing the Knights’ numbers. When the time was right, a great war erupted across the galaxy.
They killed millions before Qel-Droma was captured and put on trial. Before his sentencing the new Mandalore and Exar Kun stormed Coruscant. Kun put the entire court into suspended animation and killed the high official along with a Jedi Master. They took Qel-Droma back and set out for Ossus and the ancient lore stored in the system.
In a fit of revenge and rage, Aleema cut their quest short by destroying the Cron system. This forced Exar Kun to flee and weakened Ulic enough that he was once more captured. This time the warrior Krath was cut off from the Force, yet his heart remained bitter. He revealed the location of Exar Kun’s power on Yavin 4 and thus betrayed the Dark Lord. A massive number of Jedi traveled to the remote moon and there they were able to fight and defeat Exar Kun in his own territory, ending his direct threat and the Great Sith War.
Ulic’s arrival in Teta coincided with the political struggle among the Krath leadership. The Krath were splitting into groups, one dominated by Satal Keto, the founder. The second group was dominated by Satal's cousin Aleema, a woman whose Dark Side powers included the ability to create mass hallucinations. Qel-Droma was overcome by the sorcery and beauty of Aleema. He killed Satal Keto and took the powerful sorceress as his lover, becoming the first Krath High Priest.
The power of Satal Keto and Aleema drew the attention of Exar Kun, a Jedi obsessed with the Dark Side. After overcoming Freedon Nadd’s spirit and with the knowledge of Naga Sadow, he traveled to the Teta system to destroy Satal and Aleema. When he found that Qel-Droma had defeated Satal he began a most powerful battle with the Krath. Marka Ragnos’ spirit rose once more to end the battle and declared Kun the Sith Lord and Qel-Droma his apprentice.
The Lord and his apprentice went into hiding for years. While in hiding they grew in power and strength. Ulic took command of the Mandalorians after beating their leader and added them to the Krath army. Kun also lured Jedi Knights to him and turned them against their own masters, thus decreasing the Knights’ numbers. When the time was right, a great war erupted across the galaxy.
They killed millions before Qel-Droma was captured and put on trial. Before his sentencing the new Mandalore and Exar Kun stormed Coruscant. Kun put the entire court into suspended animation and killed the high official along with a Jedi Master. They took Qel-Droma back and set out for Ossus and the ancient lore stored in the system.
In a fit of revenge and rage, Aleema cut their quest short by destroying the Cron system. This forced Exar Kun to flee and weakened Ulic enough that he was once more captured. This time the warrior Krath was cut off from the Force, yet his heart remained bitter. He revealed the location of Exar Kun’s power on Yavin 4 and thus betrayed the Dark Lord. A massive number of Jedi traveled to the remote moon and there they were able to fight and defeat Exar Kun in his own territory, ending his direct threat and the Great Sith War.
IV-Great Hunts and Dark Lords
With the end of the war and the death of their leaders, the followers of the Dark Side scattered across the galaxy again. In the many years that followed the Great Sith War the Jedi Knights hunted them. Many died but many more survived, including Tiamat, a powerful, reclusive and mysterious sorceress with profound knowledge of Sith rituals and the Krath traditions. In the year of 3495 BBY, Tiamat sought refuge in a remote system called Antei: there she met Lord Okemi, who ruled the system like a “god-king”, and the two were later joined by Warrior Ferran, forming what would be known as “The Star Chamber”. The handful of Krath magicians that remained in the galaxy adopted a similar posture, merging with Sith cults to learn more of the Dark Side and avoid the Jedi Knights. Eventually the Jedi considered the Krath exterminated. This is why even today all Dark Side followers are generically called Sith.
Little is known about the end of the Star Chamber. The most accepted tale is that of a failed ritual performed by the insane Tiamat, who wanted the power of Ante, Antei’s star, for herself, around the year of 2950 BBY. Others whisper that the ritual was going fine until Ferran, hoping to prevent Tiamat’s rise in power, murdered her. The truth, if known, will always be jealously guarded by those who know it. A few students who had the rare honor of learning under Tiamat survived the disaster, nurturing the teachings of their master within them.
Since the Great Sith War, weaker Dark Lords came forth to lead their followers, but subsequent Great Hunts and infighting kept them from spreading their influences. Yet a darker group was slowly gathering and would reveal itself to the galaxy some one thousand years ago.
They were known as the Brotherhood of Darkness and were twenty thousand strong when they followed Lord Kaan and Darth Bane into battle on Ruusan. They were a combination of warriors, Krath remnants, and Sith. Here, a most powerful and devastating dark power developed by the Krath was unleashed, the Thought Bomb. This power destroyed the entire Brotherhood and the Jedi Knights whom they were fighting. Only a few from both sides survived
Little is known about the end of the Star Chamber. The most accepted tale is that of a failed ritual performed by the insane Tiamat, who wanted the power of Ante, Antei’s star, for herself, around the year of 2950 BBY. Others whisper that the ritual was going fine until Ferran, hoping to prevent Tiamat’s rise in power, murdered her. The truth, if known, will always be jealously guarded by those who know it. A few students who had the rare honor of learning under Tiamat survived the disaster, nurturing the teachings of their master within them.
Since the Great Sith War, weaker Dark Lords came forth to lead their followers, but subsequent Great Hunts and infighting kept them from spreading their influences. Yet a darker group was slowly gathering and would reveal itself to the galaxy some one thousand years ago.
They were known as the Brotherhood of Darkness and were twenty thousand strong when they followed Lord Kaan and Darth Bane into battle on Ruusan. They were a combination of warriors, Krath remnants, and Sith. Here, a most powerful and devastating dark power developed by the Krath was unleashed, the Thought Bomb. This power destroyed the entire Brotherhood and the Jedi Knights whom they were fighting. Only a few from both sides survived
V-The Dark Jedi Brotherhood
Even before Emperor Palpatine rose to power, he knew of the secret sects of dark users through his old master Darth Plagueis. The Emperor drew out many of the followers of these sects to do his bidding. It is rumored that many of these Dark Side users became part of his royal guard while others became hunters of Light Jedi. The Krath were part of all this and perhaps even helped spread the Emperors’ power. Only a select few became apprentices of Darth Vader.
The time of the Emperor was one that allowed the Krath and Sith alchemists to come into the open though many Krath true to the order remained in hiding. It was not fear but intuition that held them back. They knew one day a great gathering of Dark users would come about and they would be called forth.
After the fateful death of the Emperor a new organization was founded. Born of the apprentices of Darth Vader, the surviving royal guardsmen and the elusive remnants of the Star Chamber, the Dark Jedi Brotherhood was formed.
The time of the Emperor was one that allowed the Krath and Sith alchemists to come into the open though many Krath true to the order remained in hiding. It was not fear but intuition that held them back. They knew one day a great gathering of Dark users would come about and they would be called forth.
After the fateful death of the Emperor a new organization was founded. Born of the apprentices of Darth Vader, the surviving royal guardsmen and the elusive remnants of the Star Chamber, the Dark Jedi Brotherhood was formed.
VI-Leaders of the Krath
Melan Pyr was one of the handful who still remembered Tiamat’s teachings, which were passed through countless generations. He was the first Krath to rise out of the shadows the Krath of the past had plunged themselves into. The small community of followers of Melan flocked to the Dark Brotherhood. It was under the reign of Paladin that Melan Pyr found his true calling. He left the Sith order and the Emperor's Hammer, gathered the Krath to him, and took them back to Empress Teta System. There the Krath found their true spiritual center and sent out a ripple through the Force to other followers of the Krath ideal. As the first High Priest since the time of Ulic Qel-Droma, Melan Pyr was faced with the daunting task of building the Order once more.
His task complete, Melan Pyr vanished in search of more knowledge. He left the Order to Royal, an apprentice and loyal member of the Emperor's Hammer. Royal set the standard for future Order Leaders by infusing them with a desire to learn their history. He became a figurehead for the new Krath members and a great teacher for the elders. He brought a life to the Krath Order none had seen before as well as helped in the establishment of Clans and Houses. Royal eventually retired from his position.
Sirrus was chosen to take up the burden of High Priest. The Krath was already suffering from an insanity that most members from his clan suffered from. It made his personality quirky at times and yet did very well for his popularity. He turned the Krath order away from the need to pray to the god Krath and instead had them take up the pen. It was here that the order truly began their path as historians and writers. Sirrus' charm smoothed over the tempers that flared from the older Order members and bore much productivity. To this day Sirrus continues to look in on the Krath, but why he left the Dark Brotherhood is only known to few.
Shaithan took up where Sirrus left off. He quickly turned the order back to its religious side though many newer members continued on with their more ascetic inclinations. This blend worked well and caused much stability for the Krath. Shaithan also suffered from a bit of insanity and his dedication to his work made him seem a bit short with people. Yet his cold charm worked on the waves of Force Adepts that came to the Dark Brotherhood. Shaithan unfortunately disappeared while on a religious pilgrimage. His body has never been found and some say they still feel hints of his presence in the Force to this day.
Arania took over once it was found that Shaithan was missing. She was the first female to take up the mantle of High Priestess. Several changes were made under her leadership, most of them for the better, but some proved to be failures. The most known achievement was the expedition to Kh'amar'a. Arania was more confused than insane and was always troubled by visions she couldn't explain, often confusing them with reality. Her closest and most effective assistant was her Praetor Trevarius Caerick, but after the man betrayed her his death was high on her agenda. Part of their hatred for each other is the fact they both collect Force artifacts with a passion, and they envied each other’s collections. As soon as Force items are involved, Arania became paranoid, even if the respective items were of no real use to anyone at her level anymore. Arania resigned under the pretext that she was going on an expedition, but the real reason is still held secret. She still haunts the office with her suggestions, sometimes to the point of causing rather loud arguments due to her "I-know-it-better" attitude. Her passion for Force items has only slightly lessened.
Voranyen reluctantly took up the title of High Priest after Arania left. He kept the Order growing and stable yet did not enjoy the title. He preferred to stay behind the scenes and whisper into the ears of leaders. However, Voranyen continued the work of his predecessors in earnest. He helped to further the friendly competitions between Krath members and solidify the silent bond that grew from these competitions. A higher calling relieved Voranyen from his duties. He currently travels to where the Force points him.
Mairin Astoris became the second High Priestess of the Krath Order. She brought with her a style all her own. It is through her that the order found the artist within. Not only were members creating beautiful poems but also paintings fit to be hung in the Dark Hall. She hammered down the importance of being creative in the daily activities. It is rumored that while she kept the order busy, Mairin learned of the remains an ancient race on Kh'amar'a and traveled there often. What she found few will truly know but it consumed her time and she eventually retired to delve into her work fully. Mairin cannot be contacted anymore and it's assumed she is alive but chooses solitude.
Daavak Cantor, or Tronsta as he liked to be called, came to be the next High Priest despite his past as part of the Sith order. It had taken him many years to learn of his true calling and he did not regret following the pull of the Dark Side. Through him the order started to explore other areas of interest. One such interest was dueling. The Krath Combat Center was set up and a great many duels followed. The Krath flourished in the wake of this new delight. Numbers rose again and the tomes of literature and knowledge flowed. While Daavak enjoyed leading the Krath, the Dark Side continued to tug at him. When the Dark Brotherhood split away from the Emperor's Hammer, he decided it was time to continue to follow the call of the Force like many before him.
Alanna was picked by Daavak to succeed him. She faced the instability created by the split but quickly pulled things together. She reunited the Krath who remained loyal to the Brotherhood and slowly strengthened them. Bringing forth the adventurous side of the Krath, she delved the order into many different types of activities. She encouraged members to write about their own background as well as writing longer fictional stories. She even tested their abilities to solve murders through simulation. Soon, though, Alanna found the ancient race Mairin had left to study an irresistible opportunity. She sent the Krath order in search of this ancient race and was rewarded with many spoils. She left her position to rest and further study the artifacts her followers had brought to her.
In her place came Telona Murrage. In the nine months she served as High Priestess Telona was described as “a steady, consistent leader”. Just like her predecessor, she encouraged many forms of activities and competitions that compelled members of the Order to push their limits into diverse areas: oratory with the debate competitions and tactics and battle with the Combat Center Vendettas are just a few examples. After the Order Leader positions were dissolved, Telona took up an active role in the Dark Voice Staff.
His task complete, Melan Pyr vanished in search of more knowledge. He left the Order to Royal, an apprentice and loyal member of the Emperor's Hammer. Royal set the standard for future Order Leaders by infusing them with a desire to learn their history. He became a figurehead for the new Krath members and a great teacher for the elders. He brought a life to the Krath Order none had seen before as well as helped in the establishment of Clans and Houses. Royal eventually retired from his position.
Sirrus was chosen to take up the burden of High Priest. The Krath was already suffering from an insanity that most members from his clan suffered from. It made his personality quirky at times and yet did very well for his popularity. He turned the Krath order away from the need to pray to the god Krath and instead had them take up the pen. It was here that the order truly began their path as historians and writers. Sirrus' charm smoothed over the tempers that flared from the older Order members and bore much productivity. To this day Sirrus continues to look in on the Krath, but why he left the Dark Brotherhood is only known to few.
Shaithan took up where Sirrus left off. He quickly turned the order back to its religious side though many newer members continued on with their more ascetic inclinations. This blend worked well and caused much stability for the Krath. Shaithan also suffered from a bit of insanity and his dedication to his work made him seem a bit short with people. Yet his cold charm worked on the waves of Force Adepts that came to the Dark Brotherhood. Shaithan unfortunately disappeared while on a religious pilgrimage. His body has never been found and some say they still feel hints of his presence in the Force to this day.
Arania took over once it was found that Shaithan was missing. She was the first female to take up the mantle of High Priestess. Several changes were made under her leadership, most of them for the better, but some proved to be failures. The most known achievement was the expedition to Kh'amar'a. Arania was more confused than insane and was always troubled by visions she couldn't explain, often confusing them with reality. Her closest and most effective assistant was her Praetor Trevarius Caerick, but after the man betrayed her his death was high on her agenda. Part of their hatred for each other is the fact they both collect Force artifacts with a passion, and they envied each other’s collections. As soon as Force items are involved, Arania became paranoid, even if the respective items were of no real use to anyone at her level anymore. Arania resigned under the pretext that she was going on an expedition, but the real reason is still held secret. She still haunts the office with her suggestions, sometimes to the point of causing rather loud arguments due to her "I-know-it-better" attitude. Her passion for Force items has only slightly lessened.
Voranyen reluctantly took up the title of High Priest after Arania left. He kept the Order growing and stable yet did not enjoy the title. He preferred to stay behind the scenes and whisper into the ears of leaders. However, Voranyen continued the work of his predecessors in earnest. He helped to further the friendly competitions between Krath members and solidify the silent bond that grew from these competitions. A higher calling relieved Voranyen from his duties. He currently travels to where the Force points him.
Mairin Astoris became the second High Priestess of the Krath Order. She brought with her a style all her own. It is through her that the order found the artist within. Not only were members creating beautiful poems but also paintings fit to be hung in the Dark Hall. She hammered down the importance of being creative in the daily activities. It is rumored that while she kept the order busy, Mairin learned of the remains an ancient race on Kh'amar'a and traveled there often. What she found few will truly know but it consumed her time and she eventually retired to delve into her work fully. Mairin cannot be contacted anymore and it's assumed she is alive but chooses solitude.
Daavak Cantor, or Tronsta as he liked to be called, came to be the next High Priest despite his past as part of the Sith order. It had taken him many years to learn of his true calling and he did not regret following the pull of the Dark Side. Through him the order started to explore other areas of interest. One such interest was dueling. The Krath Combat Center was set up and a great many duels followed. The Krath flourished in the wake of this new delight. Numbers rose again and the tomes of literature and knowledge flowed. While Daavak enjoyed leading the Krath, the Dark Side continued to tug at him. When the Dark Brotherhood split away from the Emperor's Hammer, he decided it was time to continue to follow the call of the Force like many before him.
Alanna was picked by Daavak to succeed him. She faced the instability created by the split but quickly pulled things together. She reunited the Krath who remained loyal to the Brotherhood and slowly strengthened them. Bringing forth the adventurous side of the Krath, she delved the order into many different types of activities. She encouraged members to write about their own background as well as writing longer fictional stories. She even tested their abilities to solve murders through simulation. Soon, though, Alanna found the ancient race Mairin had left to study an irresistible opportunity. She sent the Krath order in search of this ancient race and was rewarded with many spoils. She left her position to rest and further study the artifacts her followers had brought to her.
In her place came Telona Murrage. In the nine months she served as High Priestess Telona was described as “a steady, consistent leader”. Just like her predecessor, she encouraged many forms of activities and competitions that compelled members of the Order to push their limits into diverse areas: oratory with the debate competitions and tactics and battle with the Combat Center Vendettas are just a few examples. After the Order Leader positions were dissolved, Telona took up an active role in the Dark Voice Staff.
VII-Conclusion
The preceding was taken from an older version of the Dark Side Compendium of the Dark Brotherhood and altered to reflect latest changes. Krath History initially compiled by Gilkane, based on the Dark Horse publications. “Leaders of the Krath” section saved by Ciara and added by Telona Murrage. Many thanks to all the Krath High Priests who supplied this document with information and www.theforce.net for providing some of the material used to create it. Latest update done by al’Lan Mandragoran.Latest update done by al'Lan Mandragoran, reviewed by Raken, Aristan Dantes, Anshar Kahn Tarantae and Telona Murrage.
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