Private A Marrvelous Galaxy

[Zachariah Conway]

Location: Alvaria
Tags: Darth Malum of House Marr | Darth Strosius | Commodore Helix | Revna | Ylvaris of House Marr | Elise Ahana-Gwyneira | Trayze Tesar | Ansisa ​

A meeting had been called.

Summoned together by Darth Malum of House Marr , each invitee would make their way across Alvaria towards the partly renovated palace which the heir of Darth Marr called home. Upon their arrival and confirmation of their identities, they would be shown into a formal dining hall, with silverware set out upon a covered table.

Darth Strosius , the battle brother of the Marr heir made up one of the invites to Alvaria. The duo of Sith Knights had both been apprenticed to Darth Ophidia and had both been involved in the Ouroburos Crisis and had both been involved in the killing of their former master. They had split the Tsis'Kaar between themselves and had formed lifelong bonds since then.

Commodore Helix , the owner of Helix Solutions had also found himself an invite to Alvaria. Helix could usually be found where Darth Strosius was. Whilst loyal to money, Helix had proven himself a valuable ally and asset in the battles that both Darth Malum of House Marr and Darth Strosius had waged together.

Zachariah Conway had also found himself an invite to join the meeting on Alvaria. Darth Malum of House Marr had originally been brought in to serve as the boys mentor, yet the bond between them had grown larger than that through numerous lessons and conflicts that they had taken part in together. Felucia and Myrkr were the first two that came to mind, where they'd fought together in different missions and conflicts.

Revna had also found herself invited to join the meeting. The newest official Marr, related by blood to Darth Malum of House Marr and Sith Acolyte whom was apprenticed to Darth Strosius . Revna had proven herself useful on numerous occassions, again serving alongside her master and Darth Malum of House Marr on many different battlefields.

The final two invites were made up by relations of Darth Malum of House Marr . One went to Trayze Tesar , who again had found himself battling on behalf of his family and friends. The second made it's way to Ylvaris of House Marr , whom would have his chances to prove himself in conflict as time went on.

Once they were all seated in the dining hall, they would await the arrival of their host and establish exactly why they had been summoned to Alvaria.

​

Zachariah cast his eyes around as he crossed Alvaria.

It was planet that despite his association with Darth Malum of House Marr , he'd never had the honour of visiting. He'd never had a reason to visit the planet until now. Now, his friend and unofficial master had summoned him to him home, for reasons that the young boy wasn't yet certain of. He was sure that all would be revealed in due time, he had trust and faith in the heir of Marr to reveal everything.

An assumption that had been developed by the young boy was that the Sith Knight had invited him to Alvaria for training, however they had previously come together on Jutrand for the force training sessions that Malum was providing the Sith Acolyte. Zachariah was almost sure there was more too it however, he could sense force presences that weren't usually present when he and Malum trained together.

One of those was a presence that he hadn't felt since their time spent together on Jutrand.

He shook his head as he made his way into Malum's palace, having his identification checked on the way in. He could definitely sense her presence in the force, she was definitely somewhere local. The thought of Revna made the young boy's face go red for a few moments until he pulled himself together. Where she was, Darth Strosius and Commodore Helix were likely not far behind.

Why had they all been pulled together? He was sure he was likely to find out soon. He followed his guide through to the dining hall and was shown to a seat. Zachariah was, unsurprisingly, the first one to arrive in the dining area. He had built a habit of being early for things, he felt it made a better impression that turning up late. It was always easier to justify being early than make excuses for being later.

He sat, and waited.

 

[Trayze Tesar]

CURRENT MISSION - MEET FOR A BETTER TO-MARR-OW
Immediate Goals -
1: Attend the meeting

BLUFOR - Darth Malum of House Marr || Zachariah Conway || Elise Ahana-Gwyneira || Darth Strosius || Revna

OPFOR - ENEMY UNKNOWN

TARGETING ACTION(S) - OPEN COMMUNICATIONS

---

Trayze was not usually late, especially to family affairs, but still, he did not grimace at familiar blond curly dollop that belonged to Zachariah Conway . Yet another one of his cousin's myriad of mentees, Trayze had grown a respect for the young bookworm - relishing in the fact that he would continue to be a "horrible, plebian influence" according to his more highborn cousins. The meeting also troubled him, for it wasn't necessarily a formal affair, yet it came from the "King of Alvaria", of whom Darth Malum of House Marr now reigned as: and no doubt other numerous movers and shakers would come to the halls of the palace. It pained the Kiffar to have met his cousin so infrequently as of late, their careers taking them to opposite sides of the galaxy more often than not, so to actually reconnect and no longer be the mere "black sheep", whether by introversion or exclusion, brought joy to the Detective.

Yet still, experience taught him to temper his optimism, world-wearied eyes surveyed the high halls and opulent dining room of the Royal Palace of Alvaria. So they would be breaking fast, eh? A bit more formal than Trayze would have preferred, but he was an outlier in the regards of more lower-class opinions.

"Young Mister Conway!" The Kiffar greeted, the brogue and appellation a familiar christening to the ears of Zachary as of late - especially in regards to the evacuation of the Planet Ordo. "Have we come ta' expect yer declaration as "Prince of Alvaria" or did Malum want ta' host instead?" The boy was very much like Malum, a chip off the old block and exceedingly powerful - out of the numerous associates of Malum, only Zachariah seemed close enough to be declared an "heir", sans other familial relations disputing the claim. Darth Strosius , and by extension Revna , were too intertwined with the Tsis'kaar, the Outer Rim, and their Cult to perhaps partake in politicking. Some might consider he to be the Heir of the Heir of Marr, if nothing else due to his presence in the Assembly some time ago, but Trayze had little experience, and even less interest, in the matters of governance. For some reason or another, Malum found the boy to be a close apprentice of his, and would in kind be of interest to Trayze, and with the information he had so far would most likely be his heir.

At least, until Malum and Elise Ahana-Gwyneira finally tied the knot and procured a few actual heirs. Trayze knew it was a matter of time and the correct application of Force, both political and physical - he would assist most vehemently should either request it. For if there was one thing Trayze hated more than the soul destroying dance of political intrigue, it was the trite and tacky tropes of holo-operas. Perhaps the Tesar family matriarch was rubbing off on him, but Momma Dolly would see the twain joined even if she had to behead Carnifex with the helm of Mandalore the Ultimate to do so!

Trayze remained standing, alert and upright, a habit from his time in the Peacekeeper Corps. He would not be caught unawares, whether this moment be for good or for ill.

 

[Revna]

Tags: Darth Malum of House Marr // Darth Strosius // Zachariah Conway // Trayze Tesar // Elise Ahana-Gwyneira // Commodore Helix // @whoever else is coming to this lol.


Revna wasn’t entirely sure why Darth Malum had called her and her Mentor to Alvaria; all she knew was that it was for some kind of…meeting. Others would be there too, but the nature of what this meeting would be about was kept in the dark.

The young Sith woman wasn’t sure if her Mentor had ever been to Alvaria, though she had been there a few times now. Especially after discovering the truth of who she was. A truth which had changed her life forever.

Upon landing on Alvaria, they were led into the Palace, a unique structure that was in a state of ruin, construction, and finished opulence. She’d come to learn in her time in Alvaria that her cousin Malum was the King. Or at least, he used the world ‘king’; she was pretty certain she’d heard him be referred to as ‘Emperor” once or twice before. An interesting predicament for him if that was the case, considering he lived in Sith space, which was ruled by an Emperor as well.

She and her ever-masked Sith Lord were guided through the Palace towards the Dining Hall, where the doors were opened to reveal faces she had become familiar with; another family member in Trayze Tesar, and of course…Zachariah.

A smile lit up her face, one she didn’t bother to hide. She glanced at her Mentor, her eyes bright and her face slightly dusted with pink.

“Do you mind if I sit with my friend, Zach? Unless you’d prefer that I remain with you, my Lord?” She inquired of the robed man beside her. She could have just gone on ahead without consideration to what the Sith Lord desired, but she wanted to seek his…permission?...first. She didn’t think he’d care one way or the other, truthfully. But it was a gesture of respect to him and his authority, at least that’s what she thought anyway.

 

[Darth Strosius]

Zachariah Conway / Trayze Tesar / Revna / Ylvaris of House Marr / Commodore Helix / Elise Ahana-Gwyneira / Darth Malum of House Marr / Ansisa

It had been quite some time since Darth Strosius had set foot on Alvaria, and under far more dire circumstances at that. Thankfully this time he wasn't occupied with protecting a Sith relic from a rampaging Sangnir and was instead invited to the palace of the Marrs. There was a part of him that was idly debating what was worse, getting beaten unconscious by Adeline or being lectured at by Malum. He supposed that it was about time to find out for himself first hand. Thankfully he wouldn't be alone at least.

With his apprentice on one side and the good Commodore on the other, the masked man opened the doors to the dining hall with a wave of his hand as he stepped forward. His hidden gaze flickered between the two occupants already present before he regarded them both with a nod. "Mister Tesar, Mister Conway, a pleasure as always." As expected the room was ornate and lavish, much to his dismay at how the table shined a light right into his visor from this angle, causing his head to dip slightly as he listened to Revna's request.

His head cocked to the side as he raised an eyebrow but after a moment he nodded. He supposed that it was beneficial for his apprentice and Malum's to get along, preferably better than they themselves did, so there was no harm in letting her go off on her own for now. It wasn't like they were leaving the room after all. "As you wish, hopefully this affair will not last long." He strode over to an unoccupied seat, after a quick glance at Zachariah that would have been somewhat reminiscent of a stern parent's quick glare, and sat down. "Pray tell, where is Darth Marr himself? I do have other matters to attend to today."

 

[Elise Ahana-Gwyneira]

Revna Zachariah Conway Commodore Helix Ylvaris of House Marr Ansisa


Elise Ahana-Gwyneira sighed, looking up in the mirror as she finished doing her hair. She had been in a constant nightmare since... well... a long time now. She lost part of her very soul, leaving the Way of Mandalore. She knew she was a loyal Novanian, she knew that her mission was to somehow save the galaxy from people like Darth Carnifex and the hutts. But she had no idea what her next move was going to be. At least, she had two places she knew she could turn to. She was always welcome home, on Archais, with her fellow Novanians. She always had a place as a Third Dreamrune, a shaman of their Order. But she could not simply hide away, in a temple in the rainforest, forever while the galaxy burned. Elise also had a place here, on Alvaria. Darth Malum of House Marr was more than happy to let Elise stay in his big, gothic fancy castle. He had given her free reign of the garden and library, as well as her own room. And yet, there were tempting nights, where Elise contemplated remaining in his. She was feeling so unnerved and disquiet, after all. His presence, his comfort, was always a light in her dark days.

Recently, he had invited her to a "meeting." What kind of meeting, she had little concept of, but she knew it was with his Sith buddies. He asked her to come, and he told her to wear clothes worthy of a noble. Considering that her closet was flooded with dresses he kept buying for her, she found it easy to pick out a dress. The red and black piece was gorgeous, and she was doing her best to fit into the high end society of the Alvaria elite. But no matter how much she wore these fanciful goes and dark dresses, she still felt most at home wearing the tribal garbs of Archais. But no beskar'gam, and no pistol at her side. No vambraces, and no Bes'manda Beskad she had become so bonded with. She felt too exposed, walking into a room of arch enemies. Elise trusted Malum, and she was aquanted with other well meaning Sith such as Trayze Tesar and Darth Strosius . But she had left the Mandalorians for the sins they had committed, and how scattered as paranoid of outsiders they were as a society. If there was one group even worse at this than the Mandalorians, it was the Sith... and the Sith had committed twice as many crimes as the Mandalorians ever had.

Elise looked herself over once more, feeling undressed without even a hidden knife on her person. But she turned, and she walked out the door. The stairs were only down the hallway. She swiftly approached them, seeing Malum at the bottom of the staircase. She placed a hand on the curved railing, her heart pounding, as she stood in her gothic gown. As nervous and scared as she was about nearly everything in her life, she could not help but smirk as she teased him.

"Is this a good enough noble gown? Or does the simple shaman need a lesson in fashion?"

 

[Commodore Helix]

Objective: Attend the meeting
Tags: Darth Malum of House Marr / Darth Strosius / Revna / Ylvaris of House Marr / Elise Ahana-Gwyneira / Trayze Tesar / Ansisa / Zachariah Conway​

Helix had arrived with Lord Strosius and Lady Marr, seldom seen apart from either as usual. Technically, he'd received his own separate invitation, a fact that intrigued him. He'd been slowly worming his way into the confidences of Strosius and his allies over several military campaigns, each more savage than the last, and it looked to have finally paid off. A great deal of money, time, and risk had been expended to achieve this tiny sliver of trust, and he would be sure not to waste it.

Fortunately for them, he had no sinister designs in doing so. They were simply useful allies to have, and ones who happened to share many of his ideals about how the galaxy should be. One of the mistakes his various rivals, in the boardroom and battlefield alike, seemed to make was to assume he was motivated purely by profit. The money was nice, of course. He was a machine after all, however intelligent and cultured, and the little numbers ticking around pleased him.

Still, he'd happily waste money and lives in eye-watering amounts for the 'right' reasons, as he'd proven at the auction. His principles and ideals were closely-guarded secrets, but they did exist. Such ideals would be unpopular ones, iconoclastic as they were, and as such not common knowledge. Events were transpiring quickly, however. Too quickly. He'd not be able to wear the skin of a simple businessman much longer.

He'd need actual allies, and the ones he'd been fighting alongside already, who happened to share some stances politically were excellent candidates. He followed alongside the Sith he'd arrived with, taking a seat and folding his hands on the table. He noted that young Conway and Lord Tesar were also present. Interesting. Nearly every Marr ally he'd met personally was present, in fact. There was a certain... momentousness in the air. This was sure to be a highly interesting gathering.

 

[Ylvaris of House Marr]

Currently: Formalities, greetings
Equipment: In Bio
Tags: Darth Malum of House Marr | Trayze Tesar | Zachariah Conway | Elise Ahana-Gwyneira | Revna | Darth Strosius | Ansisa

Ylvaris "Vas" Marr - a man of lethal talent. A socialite willing to entertain crowds both near and far. His presence was often viewed fondly to all who knew him, yet there was another side to the man that most didn't pick up on, or even see. For all his hospitality and grandiose complex, a coldness gripped his heart.

For what was seen on the surface was a construct designed by him, meticulously sculpted and crafted to blend in. Ylvaris as a concept was simply that - a thing walking and speaking as a man, yet feeling none of the empathy that comes natural to most.

His appearance was perhaps a smidge inappropriate for a gathering - his body adorned with his Tsis'Kaar garb; though his helmet didn't obscure his face during this occasion, it being visible for all to see. Clean shaven, suave, well-groomed. A fine, blackened coat hanging loosely from his right shoulder.

Upon being guided to the others, Ylvaris took in his surroundings. He'd never been to Alvaria once in his life, yet here he was. Family mattered to the assassin, a particular amount of care given to those only linked to him by blood. Admittedly, there were a couple of faces present that were entirely unfamiliar, a surprise to the darkly clad man.

"Ah, here are the warm bodies. Pleased to meet all of you." A subtle bow from Ylvaris as he introduced himself to those in the dining area, his eyes shifting between those present. His lips forming a warm, soft smile.

 

[Lily Rhodes]

Lily did not want to be here, of that much she was certain, but Malum had practically begged her...well that was an exaggeration. He'd said 'please' and 'I need your help' in the same sentence, that was close enough to begging for Lily to hold it over him later. She steadied herself on one of the statues, blood dripping from her nose. "Kark." she forgot how much distance made the pain worse.

"Lady Marr." Morsus's voice called to her as he approached, drawing a handkerchief for her. The guard had obviously been told she would be coming. She accepted it, wiping the blood from her nose.

"Morsus, are we going to do this every time I come here?"

"I'm not sure I follow, Lady Marr?"

"Rhodes! Miss Rhodes. Stop calling me Marr."

"Ah..."

Lily sighed. "Where are they?" she asked straightening with an exhale, rolling her shoulders to ease the pain away.

"In the dining room, if you'll follow me Lad-" he stopped at her arched eyebrow and sighed "Miss Rhodes."

"Shock horror, he learns." she replied with a grin, following him.

Whatever joy her triumph over Morsus had granted her, fell away when he opened the door to the dining room, allowing Lily to step in, eyes swinging towards her. She paused in the doorway, swallowing as her gaze swept the occupants of the room. She at least recognised Trayze and Revna. She resisted the urge to pull up her hood, to dig her hand into her pockets and retreat to the furthest darkest corner.

"Um...Hi." She started to chew her lip, a nervous habit, as she moved to stand with Trayze. "Malum late to his own meeting?" she asked him in a low voice.

Trayze Tesar Darth Malum of House Marr Revna Zachariah Conway Commodore Helix Darth Strosius Ylvaris of House Marr Elise Ahana-Gwyneira

 

[Revna]

Tags: Darth Malum of House Marr // Darth Strosius // Trayze Tesar // Lily Rhodes // Zachariah Conway // Commodore Helix // Ylvaris of House Marr // Elise Ahana-Gwyneira // @ anyone else I may have missed, I'm sorry!


The little Sith woman wasn’t all too surprised that her sometimes grumpy Mentor acquiesced to her request to sit with Zachariah, though she was nonetheless pleased with it. A glint of…happiness…shined in her eyes as a smile danced across her face.

“Thank you, my Lord.” She replied with a bow of her head before ambling away from the robed Sith Lord and the company of Commodore Helix who had journeyed with them towards the grand dining hall. Her gaze caught that of the young Sith apprentice as she moved to slide into the seat beside him, brushing her leg against his in doing so. Her cheeks reddened at the accidental touch as a partially shy, partially embarrassed smile graced her face briefly before she pulled herself together and finished getting comfortable.

Darth Strosius had taken up an unoccupied seat nearby, as did the Commodore, and after a few moments the doors opened again to admit more individuals into the dining hall. The first was a man Revna had never seen before, but who sported the characteristic Marr red eyes and dark hair. He was a well built man, moving with the grace of a hunter, dressed in the garb of the Tsis’Kaar, the Sith faction her cousin controlled now that the Pale Assassin was gone. Her senses could pick up on his strength in the Dark side, but that hardly surprised her. Almost all the Marrs were Sith.

His remark about the warm bodies made her smirk slightly, and she dipped her head at him in a gesture of respect when their gazes briefly met as he introduced himself to those gathered.

Next to arrive was a face the little woman was familiar with; Lily Rhodes, as she preferred to be called by. She was a Marr by blood, much like Revna was, but lacked the characteristic features of the Marr…just like Revna did. The little Sith gave her cousin a small smile and watched as the blonde went to be close to where Trayze was.

They all waited in expectation for Malum to arrive and explain why he had summoned everyone together in such a manner. Revna exchanged a glance with Zach; she certainly was curious as to the reasons behind all of this.

 

[Darth Malum of House Marr]

Sweat trailed his brow, his breathing was heavy, as he stared deeply into the long shikkar blade.

Staring back into the yellow orb that he knew should not be there, yet...

...Yet...

Tolerated.

For all her ills, it did not mean him harm, and for the most part, he could be confident enough that their ambitions, their visions, did not diverge.

At least that was the hope, but hope was a fickle thing at the best of times. He was not blind, he was not as naive as Mia and Ali- Darth Strosius , urgh her influence struck even now, at the most minor of occurrences. He was not as naive as they imagined him, he did not trust her, whatever her higher ideals may have been.

...Whether he could see the merits in them or not.

He had killed her, Ali- Darth Stro- Aliste- Ali, he closed his eyes, noticing for the first time that his body had been shaking, breathing out softly, trying to restrain if not reduce the tremours. He had killed her, him and Ali both, and whatever the true nature of this fragment... such was not something she would simply forget, nor forgive.

Despite her manipulations, despite her presence as a spectre, a ghost, something beyond humanity...

...He remembered those days after Fiviune.

Those desires for revenge, for annihilation, were all entirely real.

The night upon Korriban when he had almost...

Or the manipulations went beyond a level he could even possibly imagine.

It was preposterous to even consider really, but he had spent years apprentices under the Queen of Shadows... it would be even more foolish to not consider it.

In the end, though, all these considerations, were rather moot, were they not? Even if he distrusted her enough to do something...

...How could one plot and scheme against one that existed in the depths of one's own mind? One who knew one's thoughts as quickly as oneself did?

Malum played a game of annihilation, there was no point to any act if it did result in the utter destruction and defeat of the enemy in one move. One could position, manoeuvre and prepare for as long as they wanted, they could bring themselves close, and they could force the opposition to exactly where they wanted them to be.

Only to drive the dagger into their heart.

The strike needed to be quick, and it needed to be decisive, no survivors could be allowed to persist.

Such was not possible with one who knew his opening move, as soon as he had decided it.

And unlike Ali- Darth Strosius, he would not again put himself through the agony of a war of attrition, a war with no victor, a war that would only debilitate them both in service of... what? Success or Death were their Mistresses' words, and when the elephant and the whale went to war, two giants of great magnitude.

There was no victory.

Nor was there defeat.

There was simply torture.

Never again.

Especially when...

He scrunched his eyes shut further, memories of... why he had desired to fight her the last time slinking through his mind. Or more accurately... for whom he had decided to fight her.

Red eyes...

Always those red eyes...

Instinctively he went to the bond between them, that bond that... had torn them apart. That had remained closed from both sides, for all the ill it had caused them both. For... what he had done when the bond formed.

It was a rare time when that bond opened... but in times like this... he was so sorely tempted.

His eyes snapped open as the sweat still fell, an involuntary hiss escaping his lips, as the shaking began again. His eyes were forced to look to the Shikkar blade, look to the reflection of a yellow orb, blazing as the sun, as the molten core of a planet. A presence swimming at the back of his mind, swimming, finally done being patient as he lost himself to thoughts, striking, to gain his attention.

"Events are moving beyond our control," A voice both familiar and so utterly alien whispered harshly out of his lips. A voice that was his, but a voice melded with another, a voice familiar too, but combined together, something... inhuman.

"The actions of our allies endanger everything," It continued, undifferent in identity, but perhaps harsher still, causing the body of whose voice it emerged to shake further, as Malum himself gripped down tightly on his free hand, as his eyes both red and yellow pulsed dangerously, he could feel the threat of a blood vessel bursting.

The Shikkar tilted, shifting, pointing.

"They must be brought to heel, each and every one of them, Darth Strosius especially, only through a unified vision, is there any chance of success," They continued, as the Shikkar now pointed directly at the yellow orb, a fair distance remained, but gripped firmly, it would only take some force.

"...Or they must be put to death."

The Shikkar blade moved, faster than even he had expected, destined to gouge out the offending eye, make red what was meant to be red.

Before at the last moment, the other hand was restraining the wrist.

And he was breathing deeply.

As sweat continued to fall.

As he gazed upon the Shikkar, and saw with relief, the amber dissipate back to its native crimson.

"They are not Dejarik pieces to be used and discarded," Malum's voice, his true voice hissed back, dropping the Shikkar back into his robes, as he allowed his breathes to relax, as he wiped the sweat from his brow, as he let his beating heart calm itself, "Ali- Darth S- Alisteri may be foolish, but..." he is my bro- battlebrother.

Is what he wished to say, yet as soon as he thought it, his mind was struck with unease. Her unease? It was moments like this, that made him understand the war of attrition his battlebrother waged.

Yet, it was too his battlebrother that made him all but certain that cooperation with the fragment of their Mistress was the only choice they had if they were at all serious about their ambitions. To bring the house of cards tumbling down, and build something far grander atop it.

He heaved in breath.

But so, so bloody foolish.

Challenging Kaine and Braxus on Geonosis?

Challenging Lady Raaf so... so many times... and now this most recent stunt.

He had destroyed his office when he had heard of it.

All three of her grandchildren... kidnapped.

And he had made... he had made HIS apprentice an accomplice.

There were many a times he had wanted to tear his hair out when it came to Ali- Darth Strosius, many fewer times when he had considered... something unconsiderable.

But Bogan damn it, these last few months, this... whatever this was... it was growing too much.

It needed to be put to bed.

That was if they would survive Lady Raaf and the Kainite's wrath, he supposed.

All that and much else would be discussed tonight he imagined... there was after all, much to discuss, many introductions to make, many decisions to be enacted. Likely, quite a few fires to put out as well, as the fire at the back of his mind put itself out... for now.

He threw all those thoughts aside, as his gaze found itself to the top of the staircase.

She looked as beautiful as the day he met her, so long ago on Archais. So much had changed since then, for both of them, he had been elevated to the ranks of a Sith Lord, for her... she had walked away from her Mor- Mandalorian heritage, and for him... he was slowly losing himself... for her... he feared the very same, but in a very... different way.

He had kept her buy'ce near at hand, even after she had abandoned it on Yavin. Really... he should have been happy that she had chosen him, to come to live here with him, rather than remain on Mor- Mandalore, but he truly did not feel much more than a lingering guilt, and that... this was wrong. Her family, as strange a word as that was among Mor- Mandalorians, was there, her heritage, her people, were there.

She could not simply abandon them.

He had kept her buy'ce knowing... perhaps more accurately... hoping... that one day she would wish for it once again.

He did not wish for Mia to lose another daughter.

He certainly did not wish to be the cause either.

She descended the stairs with a dress that took his breath away, that made the sweat he had just cleaned away begin to emerge again, that made his throat constrict and made his mouth dry. She was gorgeous... and though she was a form beyond this world.

Beyond this sinful galaxy.

An etherealness that would challenge any goddess.

Even after seeing her, time after time, she was still able to pull on his heart, so easily. The smirk on her face, as she teased, it was enough to bring out something genuine to his lips and eyes both, as he hoped the remnants of what had just.... happened, would be unnoticed.

"I dare say you would be able to show up any noble lady, my lo- dear-" He closed his eyes for but a moment, to anyone else something that could be excused for a blink, as he tumbled over his words, all this... was still so... new to him. There was, after all, only one other woman that was unrelated to him, that he had ever said those words too... and he needed no reminder of all the pain and anguish in how that ended.

Red eyes.

Sometimes, gazing into Elsie's red eyes... he thought they were so beautiful.

But he hated how similar they were.

And how he so hated himself for ever hating something of hers.

"...My love." He finally finished, opening his eyes, the barest hint of chrome lingering beneath his cardinal, a smile affixed upon his face, that did not quite reach his orbs, he... would own the feelings he felt for Elsie.

He had told himself so long ago on Archais after all...

...He would not lie to her.

He offered her his hand, as he leaned in close, "But you know, we are late already... and I do so appreciate it even more... when you are wearing nothing at all~" He whispered huskily, before pulling back, his entire face relaxing, a glimmer back to his orbs, as even tempted by his joke, he did know they had not much time.

Drawing his free hand into his robes, he pulled out a mask, a replica, a copy, a forgery, much like him, of something, of someone, far greater. Pulling it atop him, he was... free.

Leading her through the long hallways, he knew where of course the meeting was to be held, but even if he did not, the large gathering of force signatures was more than enough hint. Most were untraining, budding, but the potential for greatness was there for all of them. It was that which needed to be honed.

It was that which gave them the only chance for this great enterprise to succeed.

As they reached the great doors that were one of the many entrances to this specific dining room, he offered a masked gaze toward Elsie, where a smile could not be viewed, offering a soft squeeze, "All will be well, I know you have reservations about my kind, but I promise I would not have insisted you attend, if I did not believe this gathering did contain individuals you would be opposed to." She knew Trayze Tesar , and despite the misunderstanding they had shared, liked Lily Rhodes , both of them still refusing to take up their true mantles and names, it would change in time, he truly hoped. He had even been enthralled by her meeting with Ali- Darth Strosius, a rather... odd tale, but one he had glad ended well enough.

The others... she would like Revna and Zachariah Conway , those burgeoning sparks may have been... some of the best chances they had for a better Sith.

She might have been bewildered by Darth Dekaltis , but well, his other apprentice was one to be bewildered by, past that, he did think she would find the rather... eccentric Sith interesting.

As long as her more... destructive tendencies could be kept at bay.

She likely would not have any problems with Commodore Helix , even perhaps be intrigued by the droid who had joined this motley band

As for Ylvaris of House Marr ... he knew how to be a gentleman, and whether he approved of her or not as a consort, Ylvaris would respect his decision.

He just... really did hope that Ylvaris would approve.

He bit his lip, and for the first time, concern leaked into his nerves, was this a good idea? Though most in that room liked or were at least cordial with the rest... they did have differences. A common enemy to stand together against was one thing, especially an external enemy. To agree to a joint program of collaboration against someone within though...

...He knew regardless of the concerns, he would have to try.

For all he wanted, for his ambitions, for his dreams.

For what he wanted for Elsie and them both.

For what he wanted for the galaxy.

He needed to try.

He needed to succeed.

Success or death, the mantra went on.

He breathed out softly, free hand pushing against the great doors, the light of the chandelier, bejewelled and shining caught his eyes, as he marched forward, hand in hand with... his love. A ghost of a smile beneath the mask, as he quickly considered all those having taken their seats. It seemed that almost everyone was there.

Good.

"Apologies for the wait, kin, friends, and allies," He began slowly, drifting attention to the woman who stood at his side, "I know most of us are well acquainted with one another, but for brevity's sake, and those who may be strangers to each other, perhaps it would be best for introductions," All the while giving time for the last of this group to arrive. It was his fault really, so distracted within his own mind, with Elsie, he had neglected her, but hopefully, his so easily distracted apprentice would find them in time.

He had not been entirely sure of inviting her, but for all her eccentricity, he had felt she was loyal.

And whether she could contribute or not, she should be included.

However, that was all in itself another concern all unto itself was it not? A conspiracy of ten so far, ten that he thought were loyal, that could keep secrets. Yet, all felt secure in their conspiracies up to the moment that the traitor revealed themselves. Such was the reason he had invited Lillian, among this grouping here the only one with no affiliation with the Sith, all apart from her blood.

An ability that she had taught him, one he refused to use on those considered... kin, friends, and allies.

An ability that was tailor-made to root out traitors, betrayers, and turncoats.

He hated, he so hated, that it was necessity.

But what was discussed here tonight, could never leave this room, could never reach the ears of Kaine or Empy-... Rhys.

...So that was who that name belonged...

"I am Darth Malum, of House Marr, Lord of the Tsis'Kaar, and King of Alvaria, the planet you currently stand on," He nodded his head in greeting, something overly formal, but these were auspicious times, some formality would hurt no one, and while the title was technical falsehood, such would not harm anyone, "My..." He turned to look upon Elsie... how exactly to term what they were.

To call her a girlfriend as he knew most in the galaxy may refer to those partners of the fairer sex felt so infantile.

While to call her his betrothed seemed far too presumptuous considering they were not in fact betrothed.

"...partner, Elise Ahana-Gwyneira of Clan Vizsla, shall be joining us today, and depending on how matters conclude, shall hopefully join us in other endeavours," There was a hint of something in his voice, a chiding threat, all were to be on their best behaviour.

Though, truly considering his eyes had drifted to the only other masked individual in the room, it was rather directed.

"After introductions are done, the first matter to discuss... the Raaf children." Even through his mask, his eyes glimmered dangerously, never once leaving Ali- Darth Strosius, as he finally took his seat, at the centre of the table, in a commanding position gazing over all of them assembled.

As a rather foreboding feeling took hold.

Ansisa

 

[Darth Dekaltis]

Tags: Darth Malum of House Marr @ Everyone else why are there so many of you, ugh.

The meeting had been called, and yet, Dekaltis never really got word on why. Then again, Malma rarely seemed to inform her of what was going on. Probably for the best, honestly. She preferred the surprise. She idly skipped into the meeting room, looking at the big table they had set up. Oh. This was gonna be boring, wasn't it? Good thing she brought her datapad. With a hop, she picked a chair at random. Such silly things as seating arrangement definitely didn't cross her mind. She'd just sit close to Darth Malum of House Marr , and leave it at that.

She peered unimpressed across the table. Lots of important people, lots of silly costumes. She liked the look of Elise Ahana-Gwyneira at least. She had Style beyond the black and dull of the normal sith. Ugh, so edgy.

Dekaltis herself was wearing only a short skirt and a jean jacket that she totally didn't steal from a local shop. Then again, is it really stealing when you own the planet?

Wait, introductions? She could do that! She was good at that!

"Hiiii~" She waved idly. "I'm the one and only Moonrunner! Master of Cyberspace and hero of the galaxy!" She grinned, kicking her feet over the armrest and pulling out her datapad. "Or...Darth Dekaltis, if that's what you prefer. Apparently I'm supposed to use that name now. I prefer Moonrunner myself."

​

 

[Ansisa]

Slender blue fingers trailed along the wood panelling as she stalked along the corridors she'd not walked for months. She'd hoped he would be in his office, so she could deliver her report and leave. No lingering, no need to revisit memories that only served to break her heart over and over again.

Seeing him was enough pain…seeing him in Caelia's face, the daughter she hid from him. Seeing him in her smile…

And then there were the days that he reached through their bond, days that he opened it and stretched his thoughts and feelings across the force to reach her. Days where he was feeling particularly moreoseful. Or days like today when his emotions were heightened, when the tremors she felt from him were not deliberate.

It wa part of the reason she had come to deliver her report from the tingel arm so early, because no matter how much she told herself she hated him for what he'd done…no matter how much she tried to move forward…

He always pulled her back.

A few quiet words with the guards directed her to one of many dining rooms, a gathering of his close circle, of his family. Her hand paused inches away from the door handle listening to the conversation within her head tilted.

Partner…

Her blood boiled. She was here. She who had stolen his heart. She who he had run to when their world had come crashing down around them.

A low hiss escaped her as she retracted her hand and took a step back, the guards that flanked either side of the door giving her a sideways glance.

A beat, a breath to control herself and she teleported, appearing in the shadows opposite Malum and stepping forward, lowering her hood as she did, as his apprentice rambled her introduction.

The chiss woman's face was a perfect mask, a cold smile affixed to her face. Though her eyes were blazing. “Allow me to go next,” a small knife appeared in her hand, turning slowly in her hands as her eyes koved between Malum and Elise, apparently contemplating which of them to stab first.

“I am Ansisa, Shadow's Hand. Do you often bring your pets to secret meetings?” Her eyes settled on Elise, lips curling into a sneer.

Darth Malum of House Marr Zachariah Conway Darth Strosius Darth Dekaltis Revna Ylvaris of House Marr Trayze Tesar Elise Ahana-Gwyneira Commodore Helix

 

[Zachariah Conway]

Location: Alvaria
Tags: Darth Malum of House Marr | Darth Strosius | Commodore Helix | Revna | Ylvaris of House Marr | Elise Ahana-Gwyneira | Trayze Tesar | Ansisa | Darth Dekaltis ​

Zachariah's eyes darted around the room.

More and more people made their presence felt. The first was Trayze Tesar , who addressed the young boy directly. The young curly dollop hadn't dealt with Trayze enough to truly form an opinion on the man. He seemed pleasent enough from first encounters, yet there was always more to the Sith than was obvious on first glance. The Sith, Trayze included always had alterior motives.

"I wouldn't know" he answered the man's question. "I doubt Lord Marr would name me his heir with so many blood relatives around, blood which unfortunately I don't share" he continued. "Personally, Lord Strosius would be my pick anyhow. He and Lord Marr seem close. I'm impressed that Lord Marr hasn't named Lord Strosius heir of Alvaria yet" he chuckled softly.

Next through the door was Darth Strosius himself, flanked by Revna and Commodore Helix as per usual. Zachariah made a note of the droid's arrival on the planet, he had an idea which he required the input of the Commodore on. It was something for after Darth Malum of House Marr 's meeting, but definitely something worth keeping in mind.

The youth Sith's heart skipped a beat when Revna spoke to Strosius regarding him, and skipped another when she sat next to him. He was certain the flush of red had overtaken him, but he was quick to pull himself together partly due to the fact they were in public and partly due to the glare that Revna's mentor had shot his way before he had taken his seat.

Under the table however, he took her hand and gave it a little squeeze.

She meant a lot to him, as much as he wouldn't be able to show it due to the amount of people in the room. The time they had spent together on Jutrand had meant so much to the young boy and had solified a friendship that had been building for a while through multiple battles and conversations. At least he assumed it was a friendship, honestly Zachariah wasn't sure and he wasn't sure that Revna knew what it was either.

Strosius spoke, and Zachariah nodded. "I couldn't tell you, my Lord. I haven't seen my master since our last training session on Jutrand. I got the same invite to Alvaria I believe the rest of you did" he held up his holoinvite at the same time. "I would assume he's aware of your busy nature and doesn't intend to hold us that long, though you know as well as I do my master's flair for the dramatic"

Letting out a soft chuckle, he sent a gentle nod in the direction of the Commodore before Ylvaris of House Marr entered the room. Ylvaris was the one who Zachariah had never had the pleasure of coming acorss. He introduced himself with a joke, which was typically a good way to break the ice. Zachariah sent another nod towards the new comer.

Another entered soom after, one that Zachariah didn't recognise. She looked nervous to be in the room, which was understandable. The dining hall was full of different faces and if you didn't recognise any of them, Zachariah understood why it was overwhelming. He cast a small smile her way in some vague attempt to ease her nerves, but he wasn't sure the effect it would have.

"Lord Marr would be late to his own wedding, never mind his own meeting" he chuckled softly. "He will most definitely be late for his own funeral, although I don't truly believe that's a bad thing" he continued. No-one truly wanted to meet death, and if you could avoid it for a few years then even better. Malum's time keeping? Hell, he'd be six months late for the reaper.

Eventually, the King of Alvaria made his entrance and he was flanked by a figure that Zachariah didn't recognise. She was clearly close to Malum however, wearing a stunning gown with not a single hair out of place. She was beautiful much like Revna , not that he would ever say that out loud however. He preferred Revna anyway, her style was much better.

Darth Malum of House Marr began to speak, introducing Elise Ahana-Gwyneira as his partner. He let out a soft smile and debated on a woohoo before deciding that it was entirely inappropriate. He was still young, yes, so it wouldn't have been unexpected but he has also been raised to have some manners and respect. He did however lean back in his chair, a trait that seemed to be shared by all young people.

A story he remembered from his youth when he was being tutored in chemistry. His lecturer had told him and the rest of his group a story of one of his student that had leaned back in his chair and fallen off it and damaged his head. Apparently they'd tried a wet paper towel but eventually had to resort to bacta. Clearly Zachariah hadn't listened and continued to lean back in his chair anyway.

Introductions were mentioned, and the King of Alavaria introduced himself formally. It was something Zachariah had heard before, but it almost caught him off guard how confident Malum sounded. He then mentioned the incident with the Raaf kids. Zachariah went to follow up, but another party made entrance into the room. He wasn't surprised to see her, nor was he overly surprised that she was late to the party.

Darth Dekaltis skipped her way into the room and slung herself over a chair, introducing herself as moonrooner whilst looking at her datapad. Zachariah was aware of her, of course. They'd been together on Felucia, both apprenticed to Darth Malum of House Marr . He hadn't been overly keen on her eccentric nature then, and he wasn't now. If it had of been any other time, Zachariah would have probably made a comment about her blatent lack of disrespect but honestly, this was Malum's house and it was his job to ensure order.

Again, he went to make an introduction and again he was cut off. This time by a lady whom he'd never a met, a humanoid figure. It took him a few moments to figure out that the lady was a Chiss, or a blueberry to use a term that'd heard them described as by his father. The Chiss twirled a dagger as she introduced herself as Ansisa and she shot daggers from her eyes towards Malum and Elise.

"Let's all take a breather" the young boy started after she finished. He could feel the disgust radiating from her, he didn't need the force for that. "I don't know the history that you all have, but can we at least put the daggers down? Fighting over dinner is so unnecessary, ruins a good steak" he continued, just hoping that his sense of humour would ease everything.

"We're all clearly here for a reason, let's let Lord Marr actually explain before we decide to resort to the Sith methods of killing each other over dinner"

 

[Elise Ahana-Gwyneira]

As she and Darth Malum of House Marr entered the room, Elise looked around at the table and the assembly. She recognized some people here already. Trayze Tesar was a good friend, who she owed dearly for teaching her to control her lifelong affliction of Psychometry. She was so tempted to run over to him and wrap him in a big hug. She was only held back by their more proper setting, but she offered him a genuine, deep smile of greeting. Another individual she was fond of was Lily Rhodes , Malum's cousin, who had a personality that bounced off Elise's very well. Memories of shared ice cream, healing wounds, and chattering graced her mind as Elise unprofessionally waved in an excitable manner at her friend. To everyone in the room, it would have perhaps shown what kind of sweet soul Elise was.

Another individual she recognized was the aloof Sith Lord Darth Strosius . The crime hunter. An individual who carried a truly dark aura, yet Elise realized she could see eye to eye with such an eccentric man. She could not explain it, but she somehow felt like she could trust him, be friends with him, despite his grim nature.

The others in this room, she was less familiar with. A raven haired young woman sat close to Strosis, a similar age to herself. The bizarre, hyper "influencer" who introduced herself as Moonrunner somehow got under Elise's skin, probably because she thought "influencers" were pointless and Galactic Toc was a waste of time. But she was someone Malum seemed to trust, so... Another individual was a young man, sitting next to the dark haired mistress. He leaned back in his seat, and Elise caught him glancing her up and down. Perhaps the strangest thing here, even stranger than the social media freak and just Strosis, was a droid in the mix of it all. Elise always had respected droids for their own sentience, despite their unnatural origins. She quite liked droids, and grew up in the company of several. She gave the droid a respectful nod, as introductions continued. And she also noticed another noble gentleman, dressed as proper as Malum was. But there was a darker aura surrounding him as well. Was his noble exterior an illusion?

But then, another presence "graced"the room, and she was thrust back into unpleasant memories. The nightmares even a Dreamseer struggled to control. The insecurity, the whispers, the woe. The rage. Her eyes widened, as she remembered the blue hand holding blonde hair, and the fight they had gotten into, ending in the defeat of her tormentor. Elise turned violently, as once again she was insulted by the Chiss witch, Ansisa .

Upon being called a pet, Elise narrowed her eyes. She was far from a conflict seeker, but Ansisa had pushed too many of her buttons too many times. Elise was not nasty, she was far from mean spirited or haute... but she was sick and tired of this jealous, petty Chiss constantly making her life and relationship miserable.

A glint of rare hostility flared in her eyes.

Elise tilted her head, and she smirked, "For a pet, I did an awfully good job putting you in your place. You still have scars? I'd be happy to add more to your collection, you pathetic bi-"

Before she could finish, the young man seated with the dark haired woman spoke up. His words were honeyed, but reasonable. Elise herself disliked conflict, when unity was so much more likely to save the galaxy. Still, Elise was exhausted from all the self sacrifice she had made, ever since she defected from from the Mandalorian Enclave s year ago. She was tired of feeling illegitimate and weak. And yet, she knew that the man was right.

She let out a sharp, angry hiss, turning her head away from the Chiss.

"Fine. But Ansisa better keep her mouth shut."

Darth Dekaltis Zachariah Conway Revna Ylvaris of House Marr Commodore Helix .

 

[Darth Strosius]

Zachariah Conway / Trayze Tesar / Revna / Ylvaris of House Marr / Commodore Helix / Elise Ahana-Gwyneira / Darth Malum of House Marr / Ansisa / Darth Dekaltis

As the masked man settled into his seat he casted a weary glance as his apprentice became very comfortable sitting next to the young Zachariah. The two must have struck up a friendship during Revna's time in Malum's care he supposed, given their similar ranking and training as well as their age it was only natural for them to find companionship in one another. Still something kept pulling an idle glance their way every so often, a sense of suspicion for some reason that was mysterious even to himself, even as more people entered into the meeting room.

"Flair for dramatic is a bit of an understatement, Zachariah." At least only Helix seemed eager to sit next to him so that cut out any unnecessary and awkward first greeting conversations. He'd have to tip the good Commodore later on once this was all said and done. What must have been another Marr due to the resemblance and fine appearance, yet noticeably more practically dressed for Sith duties, was the next to enter and he acknowledged the remark with a small nod.

The next time the door opened was by the hand of a servant and in entered another young lady that he himself didn't recognize. Malum must have acquired quite the little collection of people for whatever project he intended to rope them all into. At least he was getting out of his palace every now and then he supposed, he was certainly better than most nobles in that regard.

He leaned over slightly to Helix to mutter something under his breath as both the new arrivals found their own spots in the room. "I do hope that Malum doesn't keep us waiting too long. I've been planning an expedition to Honoghr recently, but this little delay will delay my plans in turn. How would you like to assist me in that venture Commodore?" He might as well talk business until their host arrived, he had to get something productive out of this gathering after all. Other than a comfy seat at least.

Thankfully as he spoke of the man of the hour, he appeared. Darth Strosius looked back at the doors once more as the Heir of Marr finally entered the room, and accompanied by a familiar face no less. His head inclined in acknowledgement of the pair, an eyebrow quirking up in slight surprise at the introduction of Elise as his partner. Given their own arguments in the past regarding what was to be done with their foes, he didn't think that Malum and Elise's beliefs would mesh together all that well. A welcome surprise indeed, perhaps she could talk some sense into him like he had been attempting to do.

As Malum spoke of the Raaf incident, he held the other man's masked gaze with one of his own as he propped his head against his fist. "Oh here we go." He muttered under his breath, annoyed at being so openly scolded as though he was in the wrong. Introductions came first at least so he'd have some reprieve from the badgering of Malum. After Moonrunner, officially Darth Dekaltis he supposed, introduced herself though came a rather interesting development. One of the other guests and Elise exchanged some heated words.

He glanced at Helix and shifted closer for a moment to whisper to the Commodore once more. "If they go to fighting, my credits are on Elise." He had seen her in action so he knew what she was capable of. Fortunately, or unfortunately for his entertainment, Zachariah spoke up and sufficiently cooled the situation. For now.

In order to fill the silence and attempt to move past the short verbal altercation, he sat up in his seat once more and folded his hands on the table in front of himself. "I am Darth Strosius. Lord Inquisitor of the Holy Inquisitor of the Sith Order and Lord of Faldos. As well as the origin for the matter regarding the Raaf children." He looked back at Malum and fixed him with the same unflinching stare as he had done earlier. "And I do not believe that the matter need discussion, as it has been settled." His tone was hard and clearly intended to leave little room for discussion indeed.

 

[Trayze Tesar]

CURRENT MISSION - MEET FOR A BETTER TO-MARR-OW
Immediate Goals -
1: Attend the meeting
1.1: Make friends.
1.2: Privately speak to Malum about his "lady troubles"

BLUFOR - Select Members of the House of Marr

OPFOR - ENEMY UNKNOWN

TARGETING ACTION(S) - OPEN COMMUNICATIONS

---

Trayze Tesar prided himself on knowing things, it was a part of his job as a detective. Despite the physical distance between the two cousins, they shared a great deal of clandestine correspondence to know each others' intent, if not their exact moves. After all, a lifetime ago at the Silver Palace, he sought out Malum first to reconnect the cast-off fruits of the Ancient and Illustrious House of Marr... and now, his efforts, however few or futile were coming to fruition.

Of course, family fought, and the first fight began between the Ansisa and Elise Ahana-Gwyneira : Bogan dammit he hated holodrama tropes of two embittered exes! Thankfully, the matter seemed to simmer in lieu of a darker one - one concerning the Raaf children.

"For those of us who are unaware," Trayze began, "Raaf as in one Taeli Raaf, also known as Darth Arcanix?" the Kiffar was concerned, having only met the woman of great repute during an auction of Sith artifacts a little while ago. Unsurprisingly, the "Lady of Secrets" kept things close to her chest, and deflected waves of inquiry through decades of accumulated reputation as the Dark Councilor of Science and Magicks. The fact she could be considered the Butcher King's peer and ever so eluded him was impressive in its own right. "I wasn't aware she had children."

 

[Commodore Helix]

Objective: Hear the proposal.
Tags: Darth Malum of House Marr / Darth Strosius / Revna / Ylvaris of House Marr / Elise Ahana-Gwyneira / Trayze Tesar / Ansisa / Zachariah Conway / Darth Dekaltis / Lily Rhodes​

Helix waited for a time along with the others, tapping his flat metal fingers on the table. He wondered if this was a way of keeping them in suspense, or if Malum really was held up on other business.

"I do hope that Malum doesn't keep us waiting too long. I've been planning an expedition to Honoghr recently, but this little delay will delay my plans in turn. How would you like to assist me in that venture Commodore?"

He glanced over as Strosius spoke quietly to him. He pondered the offer. The impulsive Sith had gotten him into some hot water lately, but then, hopefully this meeting would talk some sense into him. If anyone could do so, it was Malum. He was too valuable a contact, for the moment, to easily refuse. So he accepted, lowering his tone to match Strosius' conspiratorial murmur. "Honoghr. I haven't touched down there in many a year. It would prove a fine testing ground for some of my new projects." Scientific curiosity and good sense battled briefly in his processors. "Very well, consider me interested. What's the mission?"

He didn't get to inquire further. Helix looked up as Malum finally put in an appearance. So it began. He had high hopes for this little conspiracy. It could stand to garner him substantial power and influence. Well, influence anyway. The power was already there, in the brute military sense, and a good measure of it was his thanks to those present.

He looked on, studying the man for the first time in a context where battle wasn't serving as a distraction. There wasn't much to study, of course. He went masked, as Strosius did. Still, he clearly liked expensive things, as evidenced by their surroundings. He was accompanied by a woman, who he introduced as his partner. That meant nothing to Helix, only another variable into the bargain, but more conspirators could be useful... if they could be trusted.

Introductions. Very well. He could offer one. "Commodore Helix." He said simply. "Owner and founder of Helix Solutions, interested party, and hopefully, an ally in what is to come." Most here probably already knew this; he hadn't exactly been secret in his support for Strosius, or more recently, the Marrs. His droid legions had become a fairly common sight in many of their military actions. It was reaching the point, given the falling-through of some of his other dealings, that they were his primary allies.

"We're all clearly here for a reason, let's let Lord Marr actually explain before we decide to resort to the Sith methods of killing each other over dinner"

"If they go to fighting, my credits are on Elise."

His hand went to his sidearm when one of the arrivals pulled a weapon on their host, and it was nearly leaving the holster when Zachariah spoke up. A surprising voice of reason and restraint amidst the crowd. He saw the young man's nod of acknowledgement, and returned it. Ideally things could calm down, and they could all behave like civilized people. "I couldn't say." he whispered back to Strosius, injecting something of an amused tone into his voice modulator. "But given your greater knowledge of those present, I'd not be inclined to challenge the bet."

Then again, the Sith were never what he would term "civilized". His own hands were far from clean, but there was a time for cooperation, however necessarily short-lived. It was pleasing to see that at least Zachariah saw that, and judging by their invitation here, so did Malum. He'd just have to wait it out and hear the proposal. He noted Strosius' clear annoyance at being called out, but said nothing. He'd gain more from listening here than chipping in. He could see the reasoning in trying to force their enemy's hand, but it had been a risky move. He resolved to only speak up if the accusation became an argument, one that threatened to derail the purpose of this gathering.

 

[Revna]

Tag(s): Darth Strosius // Darth Malum of House Marr // Zachariah Conway // Elise Ahana-Gwyneira // Ansisa // Trayze Tesar // Commodore Helix // Ylvaris of House Marr // Darth Dekaltis // Lily Rhodes // @ anyone I missed, sorry!



As soon as she settled herself in the seat beside Zachariah, she felt his warm hand snag a hold of hers and give it a gentle squeeze. The little woman partially turned her head and gave him a knowing look with a small smile, before composing herself enough to pass as innocuous to others who were present…especially that of her Mentor, who sat almost directly across from her at the large table.

Revna kept a poker face on, especially when she noticed glances from Darth Strosius in the direction of her and Zach. She couldn’t see his face…but something in her gut told her that he might perhaps be suspicious of her…relationship with Zachariah. They had a friendship, yes…but after seeing Malum and Elise together and how they reacted around one another, she couldn’t help but notice some similarities in how she and Zach acted around one another, and it made her ponder what was truly going on between her and the Emperor’s adopted grandson.

The little Sith relaxed and just listened as a few at the table engaged one another in brief conversation; her Mentor was talking to the Commodore - business as usual, and she gave a slight, playful eye roll at his comments.

Movement caught her eye, and Revna looked to see a rather interestingly dressed woman who skipped into the dining chamber, who picked a random seat and sat down, and not a moment later, her attention - along with that of everyone’s - was drawn to the doors as they were opened and in stepped Darth Malum in his typical regal attire, donning the mask that the ancient Lord Marr had been famous for, and at his side was none other than the beautiful Elise, wearing a gorgeous gown of red and black…the colors of the Sith, and the colors of House Marr.

Malum started by apologizing for being late, and suggested introductions for those in attendance who may not know who others were, and he started by introducing himself with some titles, speaking formally. He then introduced Elise to the rest of them as his partner. From Revna’s understanding…this was the first public announcement he had made regarding his relationship to Elise.

The red-eyed Sith Lord continued, briefly, explaining that after introductions were finished that they would discuss matters that involved the Raaf grandchildren, and Revna’s eyes immediately flickered to the masked visage of her Mentor.

So…it was going to be one of those meetings.

She gripped Zach’s hand for a moment, almost as if in an effort to relieve some of the unease she suddenly felt.

The young woman wearing the jean jacket and short skirt spoke up first with the introductions, and announced herself as ‘Moonrunner’ or…more officially, ‘Darth Dekaltis’.

The doors to the dining chamber opened once more, and a somewhat familiar figure appeared. A Chiss woman, someone that Revna had seen some time prior. Immediately Revna could sense that something wasn’t quite…right. Emotions swirled around the Sith Chiss, most notably anger. Tension immediately swelled when she stepped into the room, her fiery gaze fixated upon Malum and Elise, as a small knife appeared in her hand. Revna felt her body go rigid, her muscles tensing in anticipation for violence. The Chiss named herself Ansisa, and made a rather rude remark towards Elise being a ‘pet’....to which Elise responded in kind, as her temper flared instantly.

Before the situation could descend into violence, however, Zachariah spoke up, calling for level heads to prevail, at least until the reason for the meeting had been revealed.

When it seemed the tensions had somewhat settled, at least for the moment, Revna heard her Mentor’s familiar voice echo through the chamber, announcing his name, and his more formal titles of Lord Inquisitor, and Lord of Faldos. His voice became hard as he made it clear the incident involving the Raaf grandchildren would not be a topic for discussion, and he pinned Malum with a glare that even Revna could feel.

That tone of voice was almost enough to make her slide under the table, and she was glad it was not directed at her, though she knew that Malum would ignore her Mentor’s clear warning not to touch that subject. This ought to get interesting, she mused to herself.

Trayze spoke next, his concern evident as he asked if the situation involved the grandchildren of Taeli Raaf, stating his surprise about her even having children or grandchildren for that matter. Following behind him in statements was the Commodore as he greeted the gathered guests. When silence fell once more, Revna took a breath and looked over the assembled group.

“I am…Revna, an Acolyte learning under Lord Strosius.” Hopefully, one day, to be an apprentice. A true Sith Apprentice. Bogan knew she’d been working herself hard for that honor, and she’d continue to do so until she achieved what she sought after.

 

[Lily Rhodes]

As Malum entered with Elise, Lily couldn't held but mirror the enthusiastic wave and smile her friend gave her, though it was short lived as she remembered there was other in this room she didn't know. she shifted from one foot to the next as the tension rose. This would be about the time that she would, in any other circumstances, find her way to the nearest exit and leave.

Her eyes shifted between the Chiss woman and Elise before settling on the masked face of her cousin. He asked her here for a reason. She took a quiet step back, tucking behind Trayze. Closing her eyes she opened her mind, reaching through the force to the mind of each person in the room, including Malum's. If they were well trained in any from of mental defences then they might notice something, perhaps the raising of hair on the back of their necks like the were being watched by unseen eyes.

Her intention was not to influence, but simply to skim the surface thoughts that rose, to be aware of any shifts in their intent from peaceful to violence...but also to detect any lies and alert her cousin. She had absolutely zero intention of introducing herself, so preoccupied with the altercation between Ansisa and Elsie that she was becoming seemingly... unnoticeable.

Any who looked her way now, might find their eyes sliding off her, wanting to look elsewhere, only iron focus would allow them to see past the gift of her force imbued tattoo courtesy of Skeevi Merrill.

Revna Ylvaris of House Marr Darth Strosius Darth Malum of House Marr Elise Ahana-Gwyneira Trayze Tesar Zachariah Conway Commodore Helix Darth Dekaltis

 

[Trayze Tesar]

CURRENT MISSION - MEET FOR A BETTER TO-MARR-OW
Immediate Goals -
1: Attend the meeting
1.1: Make friends.
1.2: Privately speak to Malum about his "lady troubles"

BLUFOR - Select Members of the House of Marr

OPFOR - ENEMY UNKNOWN

TARGETING ACTION(S) - OPEN COMMUNICATIONS

---

As Lilly would duck behind Trayze, the Kiffar instinctively made moves to protect her - even going so far as to reach for his trusty Stormclaw pistol. His mind was a focused torrent of worry and battle stratagems, should the apparent enmity between Ansisa and Elise explode into open conflict. But should Lily flow deeper, she would find a kalaedoscopic flurry of familial associations. At the Life Day extravaganza, standing in awe of Srina Talon and the Dead Emperor of Jutrand - Darth Emperyan, the words "Do better, do more" echoing through his mind. The awe was not merely in power, but in the genuine connection between the Emperor and his consort, one that Trayze even now could scarcely believe possible at the highest echelons of Sith society, where narcissism and cutthroat politics reigned supreme. She would see a star lit bonfire, where a few members of House Marr made merry under far less formal circumstances, and the joy that came from the fact that both High-Born and Low Born halves of House Marr could find comfort in each other. She would see a sterile condominium on Jutrand, a loyal police dog and a pair of droids serving as Trayze's only immediate company, having thumbed his nose at the "handouts" that Darth Malum may have offered to him - mostly out of pride and envy.

Envy, that was the word for it. How had Malum accomplished so much while he lingered and suffered, a shadow despite being the first to reconnect with Malum? Contempt. Children. What were their plans, to kidnap, to... kill? Family was Trayze Tesar's solace... and his source of sorrow in kind.

She may blink and find Trayze looking down at her, giving her forearm a reassuring squeeze once the worse of the conflict was defused. As Revna and a few others spoke quietly, Trayze opined once more. "Shall we focus on the matter at hand, or shall we wait after introductions?" the Kiffar tried to break the ice. "It seems that some of us know of others more... deeply than most present." This was directed mostly at the Marrs who came with their own clear agendas. Strosius was connected to the children of Raaf, else Malum wouldn't have subtly chastised him so - Malum, Ansisa, and Elise seemed to be in an entaglement, while Zachariah and Revna seemed to try and keep their heads down and their hearts together. It was frankly a miracle that this Sith family reunion didn't require immediate therapy... or the paramedics, one that Trayze found himself being both proud and exacerbated by.