Faction A New Home (Tsis'Kaar)

[Darth Malum of House Marr]

Malum felt the hesitant touch of tiny hands along the crevices and sections of the armoured hulk he wore, one bold enough still to tap upon the glassy visor that beheld his face from the mask, and thus... their sight. It could not in any regard be called comfortable, but, he supposed that it was better than what the children had been up to for most of the trip from Anoat.

Cowering away from the masked dark knight that had promised them freedom from the bowels of the toxic hellscape that was the world that these refugees... these once slaves... had been gathered to. Ripped away from their homes over such vast periods of time... that he was unsure if it was their treatment upon Anoat or simply time that had stolen away their minds, stolen away their memories of who they had been.

Those who remembered, his transports had begun the long voyages to take them back home.

For those who did not.

For those who had nothing.

He promised them new homes upon his home.

Alvaria

Eyes of all make and nature gazed upon him, those emotions that he was so often used to exuding, but in this moment... how he hated it. He had not been the one who had done this to them, who had made them all the victims of that great tragedy, that great crime, that their galaxy was still the stage of. Yet, such defence felt hollow, everything of recent days seemed to taste of ash in his mouth, as he was simply made to...

...Exist.

The children were the worst of them, the first to turn their eyes downcast, the first to have tears erupt upon what should have been soft, pale faces. Instead... crisped and bloodied, by whips and hands. It had been the one with parents and guardians that had... something to grasp onto. Someone to grasp onto. They acted as shields for the young ones when they themselves were at times too weak to even stand.

Food and water were given aplenty.

It broke his heart, each and every time, to witness them scarf down every morsel, without relenting, as if they had been relegated to wild animals, desperate for anything, distrusting of everything.

It was those children, who were alone, that may have been the lowest of wretches. Truly, rabid, in a way beyond desperation, as if their very natures had been altered away from the way children were meant to be... to the dark facsimile of what they once were. The first to fight, the last to retreat, they had nothing, nothing at all but the skin on their back...

...What skin had not been peeled off by metal held over the flame.

It had taken days of his presence constant vigil for them to approach him. Those who held bravery in their heart to survive, but also the good sense to retreat when they were outmatched, so often seemed to be the most curious. They were too young, too... young, to have such thoughts in their mind.

They approached, testing his defences, and when he gave nought.

They had approached again, and again, more and more of them. They were a small community among a community that had been forced together, the wild things that they were, it seemed even they could not be entirely alone. They had each other, and for them, who knew no better, who remembered no better... it almost was enough.

The truly bold of them, had reached out to bring their calloused hands against his armour, curiosity winning out over good sense, as they surrounded him, felt a metal, felt a suit of steel that they had never seen before. They came back, day, after day, and there he stood, ever still vigil, only slinking away when he was certain each and every one of them was asleep, to catch some himself, before returning when their day began.

It had been some days ago, when he first moved.

Surprise, and fear coloured their faces as the dark knight kneeled down to them. Wide eyes and awe-filled their expressions, as blue flame sprouted out of his hands, yet, still, there remained that fear. That fear, so evidently felt, by those older amongst them, those adults who had only known flame to be for a singular ashen purpose.

Yet, these... these children, still held within them that youthful visage that came with all that they were.

They scratched at dents made in an armour forged by war, they treasured ruby encrusted into steel that gleamed dangerously in the dark, and some...

The protrusion at his throat bobbed at the memory of that day... when the youngest of them, having witnessed for so long, some of those of their height and age picked up by those much larger, gazing with such adoration and protective tendency that he...

...He raised his arms up and looked up at Malum's black mask with expectation.

There was nothing he could do, but oblige, his hands finding themselves wrapped around him and holding him close. His small heartbeat, felt with his own, even separated by steel and plate.

He spent the rest of the day picking each and every one of them up, holding them close, resisting the prickling sensation around his eyes.

They had come out of hyperspace some hours ago, most of them had cleared up the bays, quick to find themselves a window, and peer forth out to their new home. Darkness had been their hollow for most of this trip... darkness had been their hollow for most of the time they spent upon Anoat, yet... he could feel the relief pool in each and every one of them, as they gazed out towards rolling hills crested by grassy green knolls, towering metallic structures rose from the ground, as to the awe to them all...

...His glittering palace came into view.

Home... they were home now.

Yet, still, he held each of them close, surrounded as he was, sitting upon the cold floor, and simply... feeling.

He had been simply persisting for too long, he had been away from what was important for too long, he had allowed himself to be strum along by the desires of others, rather than doing what was important, doing what was needed, these were his people... the galaxy beheld his people, so long under the toil of bondage, both visible and invisible chains... and for all that he would have to do for their freedom.

Even making pacts with devils.

Even sacrificing himself for the good of those he loved.

The transport, bid down upon the world's crust, as the landing bay doors opened.

He had called upon the great Tsis'Kaar lords and ladies to assemble, many would not come, too busy as they were already, but... in this moment, he could not help but hope that some... some answer the call. He had been absent for too long, and too much had happened without him. Saijo still rankled at his choler, yet, in the end, this would be more than another meeting.

He had promised his new people a home.

And he would build them one.

Ansisa Darth Strosius Darth Morta Commodore Helix Zachariah Conway Trayze Tesar Lily Rhodes Akhuul Sautra Kalzok Mariah of House Marr

 

[Aeizori-Mei Kaeirosae]

Aeizori heard the news that her master was returning and baring some new guests. He was vague to her about who and how many. She was unaware on what to do or prepare, but Aeizori believes she did her best. When she heard of this message, the diligent maid started to prepare as many rooms as she could before his arrival. A few of the more fancier ones, but mostly the dull (if you could put it that way) and boring rooms. Still fit with all the accommodations that a guest would desire and need, but without knowing who was arriving it was hard to tell.

On the day of his arrival, she had started to cook a meal. But just any meal, but a grand feast of one. One fit with all sorts of meats and veggies and all kinds of food. It was hard to prepare just what to make and how much to serve without knowing how many were showing up. As the food was being prepared and cooked to perfection, Aeizori decided its time to let the actual kitchen staff to do their job. She had laid down what she believes is appropriate, including what Malum enjoys most, before finally departing.

Once she departed from the kitchen, the maid went around to clean and makes sure that everything was in tip-top condition. Sometime during this route of hers, she peered out a window and spotted his ship returning. But not just his. An entire fleet of them. Her heart does sink slightly. Did she prepare enough rooms? Were they mostly just solders who has their own bunks? She hopes they are. Otherwise, once more, unprepared.

And she did not like being unprepared.

It left a terrible feeling in her chest. Anxiety sparks. Would she be reprimanded? Or would she be praised for what she did?

She is aware Malum wouldn't punish her, but the unknown guests might. Not that she isn't used to such a feeling, but he was too vague about what was being brought here.

No matter her own thoughts, she stopped cleaning to head towards where the transports were landing. She made sure that her attire was fit proper, not an ounce of ruffled cloth, nor disfigured hair. A diligent maid always has to look her best.

By the time the transport doors were opening, Aeizori had made it to the ships.

When the door was fully opened, his servant spoke in a calming welcoming demeanor.

"Welcome home Master Malum."

Darth Malum of House Marr

 

[Mariah of House Marr]

On and on she went in the library. NOw that she was functionally immortal, with her other self off doing her other tasks and her original self dealing with things here. And her droid white-6 for combat. She had allowed herself to slow down. Though she found she had shifted her goals into something rather intrigueing. A new race, or rather, a type of infection. It resembled that of an ancient sith, but adjusted to be more adaptable. I twould still be some time however before that was completed.

Yet, while she worked, a droid alerted her of the return of Malum...and company. A lot of company. She reached out, her force senses were completely eclipsed by her sons. But he also had no understanding of how to use them. And she was immensely grateful the boy was not here right now, as she felt the sensitive and unprepared souls. Children.

Her heart suddenly spike with anxiety and memories. She'd had some of her own. But she'd never been that...caring for them. Not too long after having them, she had left them. How well that had turned out. The sith made her way outside, in a simple dress but clearly one with the station of a lady in mind.

As she excited, she found Aeizori-Mei Kaeirosae already greeting Darth Malum of House Marr . She approached the group, already she was reaching out with the force, pulling in her droids including White 5, half controlling him with the force and half letting his programming do the work. Him and various drones and droids would come out, most just monitoring from a distance. Though she sent others to already begin gathering additional supplies, namely, food, White 5 however was sent to ensure there was sufficient clothing. She didn't imagine Malum exactly had a horde of childs clothing sitting around somewhere.

"You've picked up quite a little army haven't you cousin?" she asked looking at him, she looked at Aeizori and nodded her head to her, "Good to see you again as well."

Spoiler: equipment

ITEMS:
mariahs-necklace (worn)
mariahs-gauntlet (worn)

Initiation (lightsaber)
A wide range of tools and equipment for technological repairs and creations in a bag.

WEAPONS:
bar-58-blaster-pistol

DROIDS:
White-5 (Using 1 IR-1, 1 sunfury, 1 bar-58. The Initiation blade)

 

[Elise of House Marr]

Elise shook her head as she wandered around waiting for Malum to return, however what she sensed as the ships began to make their way was far far more than she expected. "By the force did that man bring a moons-worth of children?! Here." She let out a groan and moved quickly outside, she reached out with the force. Sending a questioning sense towards Malum, and another that was almost accusatory.

Elise took the short way, making a quick leap into the area. She rushed over, smiling and waving at the children, crouching down, "Welcome!" she said cheerily, then gave Malum a raised brow, "So...a bunch of children. Here? That seem like a good idea Malum?" she asked, without waiting for an answer though she quickly went back to the children. Expanding her sense in the force in order to try and provide a calming and pleasant presence for them in a new place, "I'm Elise! It'll take awhile but I'll learn your names as I go."

She looked at her brother, "Do we actually have a plan or are we making it up as we go? I could probably get some games for them pretty quick? Some holo-vids help?"

Aeizori-Mei Kaeirosae Darth Malum of House Marr

Spoiler: Equipment

Personal equipment:
Draika iv misina (Lava lightsaber)
Red lightsaber with sturdy hilt
Datapad

 

[Darth Strosius]

When the request for aid had reached Him, Darth Strosius was initially rather perplexed. Refugee assistance typically wasn't the type of affair that He had expected the Heir of Marr to delve into, though that wasn't to say that the other Sith was uncharitable. Rather that Darth Malum had simply never been one for such grandiose efforts for the downtrodden to His knowledge. Even more surprising was the nature of these refugees, former slaves from what the request implied.

Normally Darth Strosius and the Order of Wonosa was content to let the Tsis'Kaar handle their own affairs, but assisting those in chains was their specialty and both pride and duty alike compelled them to set out to Alvaria. Many if not most of Wonosan had once been enslaved, freed and dedicated to their saviors in the noble goal of extinguishing the abhorrent practice across the galaxy. As such, there was no hesitation nor any raised complaints to be had even with the rather quick deployment.

Said deployed aid would emerge from hyperspace and move towards Alvaria in a flotilla of cargo freighters that had decisively increased their speed when clarification on the age of the assortment of refugees was brought to their attention. It would take some time for the full compliment to make their landings and offload their cargo, as the vessels carrying the children were taking up the most immediate landing zones at the moment, but Darth Strosius Himself was directing the efforts.

He and His followers would make planetfall shortly indeed.

Darth Malum of House Marr / Aeizori-Mei Kaeirosae / Mariah of House Marr / Elise of House Marr

 

[Aeizori-Mei Kaeirosae]

The diligent maid merely smiles as she looks up at him. Though, as the others arrive, she gives each one a nod of approval. First, addressing Mariah of House Marr . The last time they spoke, well, she was under assault from one of this woman's children. Thankfully, Aeizori had recovered from that fight, but some scars don't quite heal. "Mmhm. Its good to see you too. I'd come see you sooner, but I'm still a bit on edge from our last talk." Her tails flicker and spike up at how that battle went.

Of course, when the other woman arrived, Elise of House Marr , and started speaking about children, her attention went back to Darth Malum of House Marr , specifically, the child he is carrying, giving a brief glance, and then towards the small army behind him. All of them baring scars and marks of torture. "What do you mean ch-" And she stopped talking.

She had expected friends of Malum, maybe even his superiors or others of that nature. More people that share his views, or businessmen that wish to make deals. Not. Children. And definitely not war-torn, ragged children whose childhoods will be scarred and ruined for years to come. She knows those frightened looks. Those saddened eyes. The hesitant smiles. The cowardice to move forward.

An ear flickers, then both go flat.

The ruffeld up fur stops and her tails droop down.

Her own face starts to change from a happy, cheerful one to a depressed saddened look. Her body locks up briefly, and she goes to do something she has always done, when she gets like this. With a rather hastened pace, the woman would squat down, and wraps herself in all of her nine tails. She has now became an anxiety ball of floof.

And to top it all off.

She was not prepared at all.

Darth Strosius

 

[Allyson Locke]

//: Alvaria //:
//: Attire //:

Children.

Darth Nefaron's slaves were children.

Allyson touched down on Alvaria the moment the transmission came through. No fanfare, no announcement—just boots on the ground and a simple determination to see for herself. The Shadow kept a low profile, blending in with the aid workers already gathering at the site. There was no need for an eyepatch or anything that labeled her as something more than what she was. Today, she was just another helper.

What struck her first was the silence—not the absence of sound—children made plenty of that, but the lack of adult voices and presence. She scanned the crowd, expecting to find caretakers or survivors. But there were only dozens of children—no parents, no elders, just the young, displaced and waiting.

She didn't say anything. Just mentally made a note of the curiosities.

With each blink, her Esper eye logged another face. It stored the images individually—every person's features were captured precisely. The implant had been Taeli's idea, and though Allyson had resisted at first, she had to admit it was more useful than the one the SIA had forced on her years ago. At least this time, she had chosen it.

Her gaze shifted to a cluster of figures near the Counselor. The woman greeting him looked familiar, as did her face and posture. It was too close to be a coincidence. It was probably family, maybe a sibling. Allyson took note of the interaction and filed it away with the rest.

Still, no new adults emerged. Only the Tsis'Kaar personnel and what appeared to be members of the Marr family. No other survivors. No guardians. Just children.

Allyson stepped back slightly, arms crossed, letting her eyes sweep the field again. It didn't sit right. None of it did. Questions began to press at the edges of her thoughts, quiet but persistent. She didn't voice them.

Instead, she watched. Carefully waiting for answers to emerge.

Spoiler: OOC note

Allyson's just observing as part of an investigating into the slaves, Darth Nefaron & Councilor Marr - no need to force interaction, only do so if you wish, will only be here for a few posts.

Spoiler: Tags

Darth Malum of House Marr Elise of House Marr Mariah of House Marr Darth Nefaron Darth Strosius Aeizori-Mei Kaeirosae

 

[Armaros Asenath]

Tags: Darth Malum of House Marr . Open.

Asenath soon found himself amongst the baying crowds of wretches. The only thing that stopped their frail bodies from throwing themselves against him was the armored frames of his Death Brigadier Honor Guards, who formed a wedge to push a path through. The last time he had seen bodies this close to perishing was when he was just a corporal in the 79th Regiment when it made its death march through the irradiated Minyak Basin.

He allowed himself to smile at that wonderful memory of his gaunt-faced, cancer-ridden comrades as he watched one of the stick-thin former slaves collapse. Too close to starvation for their stomachs to process the solid foods they were gorging themselves on. Killed by the very thing supposed to save them. What a delectable irony.

He'd been in the process of touring the local garrisons of this sector of Imperial space, assessing its viability to be a staging ground for future offensives, when Alvaria had come up at the top of his list. Its history reminded Asenath greatly of his own holy Pandemonium; two worlds with an ancient history rich in wealth and resources that ignorant leaders squandered away. Both plunged into an apocalypse of their own making, only to rise from the ashes as something twisted.

However, unlike Pandemonium, Alvaria had not been anointed by the arrival of Apophis and Her prophet.

Well, at least until their holy crusade would bring blessings to this world. But all in good time.

The path curved sharply, revealing the first close view of the palace above. A cascade of towers and domes, terraces and keeps, ivory-colored walls and battlements spilled across the ridge line. Banners of red and black atop the parapets fluttered with the murmurs of the wind. Baroque arches and windows dotted the citadel. Lush gardens of exotic plants spilled over every ledge and through any crack.

It was beautiful, and that disturbed Asenath greatly.

Where were the housed gun turrets and bastion walls, the barbed wire and trenches, the sally-ports and weapon assemblies? That something could be built for aesthetic over function made some part of the veteran commander uneasy. The bright white chambers he encountered upon entry into the inside unnerved him more than any battlefield butchery he had partaken in.

His boots stopped echoing across the marble floors, and he looked down to see what caused it.

Carpets

Red. Fething. Velvet carpets.

So immaculately dusted. A thousand feet must tread upon them every hour, yet not a single speck of dirt disgraced its sanctified wool. He brought up the magnification of his cybernetic eye.

In the name of Apophis, each fiber had a micro-watermark displaying the House of Marr.

Asenath's sneer was barely hidden under the shadow of his peaked cap.

He began to stride faster towards the inner chamber, his honor guard thundering behind him.

He just had to meet the man behind this all. Anything to understand this insanity before him.

 

[Allyson Locke]

//: Alvaria //:

She slipped the small notebook into her jacket and secured the leather eyepatch over her eye. She'd seen enough to form her conclusions. Another ping from her comm drew her attention—more pressing than anything left here.

Glancing down at the sender ( Madelyn Lowe ), she allowed herself a small smile.

Then, without a sound, she vanished—her presence fading into the Force as she made her exit.

 

[Darth Malum of House Marr]

They were quick to sprout from the woodwork, but he could not have been happier to see them. Kin and friends, subordinates and servants, it was an odd conflagration, but... Bogan, he could not help but feel his heart beat in his chest. He flicked a masked eye back to the disgorging transport, it may have been the vandal children who had been most brave in coming through, fueled by either their particularly wild natures or else the confidence they beheld in their knightly protector.

But even a small army as they were, they were only the minority of those that had been held within the transport, within all the transports, men and women of various ages, heights, and wear, emerged slowly, cautiously, the sun's rays gracing them with a comforting warmth, cresting along their face, as the wind whistled a jaunty tune.

His arrival had been planned for quite some time... but it had been his own shock that had kept him from truly revealing what was to come.

Still, as the Guard assembled, those of the Royal Alvarian Army bedecked in their great helms and cloaks, stood on the exterior perimeter, as servants and workers rushed forth, quickly establishing temporary accommodation, and then all else a budding settlement required, setting up stations for soups and water, as further supplies landed nearby, ships with the crests of Wonosa.

A gentle smile filling his lips, at the knowledge that his co-apprentice had answered the call.

But before he could go to greet him, he was stopped by three who drew attention, "Glad to see you are well too, cuz," Malum replied, offering as much greeting as introduction, tilting his head in notice, even if his lips parsed, as attention was drawn to his wards, "...It is a long story, to say the least." He replied at last.

The smile returned as he turned towards his sister, her accusatory tone heard far before it was spoken, "...They have nowhere else... some have no one else..." The children, so often so suspicious, were seemingly quick to warm to the presence of the strangest of the Marrs, their guards dropping around the noble lady... who acted as anything but.

"Any assistance would be appreciated." He stated in a tone that betrayed how underprepared he was.

But a full determination to succeed in this, as with all things.

It was Aeizori, who stole his attention next, as she fell upon her knees, wrapping her fluffied limbs about her form, his first instincts to catch her stolen away by the child in his hands, one whom watched with keen interest, quite enjoying his elevated platform, if, still, entirely distrusting of the motley band of strangers assembled.

"...Aeizori..." It was not difficult to imagine why she was like this... but in this state... "...Return to the Palace, I want you to bring the rest of the servants here..." She would be of little use in this state, but her pain was hardly her fault.

"Your Imperial Majesty!" An unfamiliar voice called, but once ruby eyes found its origin, his role seemed rather self-explanatory, one of his secretaries, "Chervertim-Colonel Asenath awaits your presence at the Palace."

Ah... Malum had forgotten that he had wished to meet this so-called Pact of Apophis... it seemed so far from a priority now.

"...I shall attend to him soon, until then..." He turned his eyes back towards Aeizori, "Aeizori, can I trust you with this important task?"

Aeizori-Mei Kaeirosae Mariah of House Marr Elise of House Marr Darth Strosius Armaros Asenath Darth Nefaron Commodore Helix Lysander von Ascania

 

[Aeizori-Mei Kaeirosae]

Aeizori was lost in her own mindset. That trauma she had hidden away. A trauma she had hoped to not remember. A trauma that, in this instance, was brought forth. Molded her to what she is today. Pain and torture that she had endured, returning when she saw those faces. Torture which forced her to accept this life-style, a lifestyle she only knows about. A path that no one wishes. A lifestyle that many others had tried to break her out of and failed.

Instead of trying to brave through it, she had became this ball of floof, anxiety had already nested deep inside. She began to hyperventilate. A panicked cry emits from her face, hidden away from those around her, but auditable from those that were nearby.

'Aeizori.' He called her name. A soft tone. Not one of cruelty. She knew Darth Malum of House Marr , meant no harm. After all, she trusts her master. Today, in this instance, she feels terrified in his presence. A brief pause before she looks up at him. Tears already being shown flowing down her face. Yet she did not speak. No further words escape her lips. 'Return to the Palace' He commanded. At least, to her he commanded. 'Bring the rest of the servants.'

And so, the woman slowly uncurls herself and stands up straight. Her head tilts slightly downwards, and without saying another word, she turns around and begins to walk away in silence. She doesn't even glance over at Mariah of House Marr , or Elise of House Marr either.

Something broke inside her mind. Brought her back to this emotionless state.

Alas, as she entered the Palace and began to collect the servants, speaking to them one by one, in an emotionless state, a monotone one at that. "Master Malum needs you outside to assist him." She repeats to every servant she encounters. Though during her walk and doing what was asked of her, she does in fact see Armaros Asenath with his troops. Thank god, no injured children. Yet, she hasn't seen this group before at all. However, this does not break her from this broken state, and once more, she speaks in that dull monotone voice.

"Guests of Master Malum? What shall Aeizori do to serve?" Did she just speak in third person?

Terrible first impression from the woman who had definately and recently cleaned this entire place thrice every day.

 

[Lysander von Ascania]

Darth Malum of House Marr | Darth Strosius | Aeizori-Mei Kaeirosae | Mariah of House Marr | Elise of House Marr | Armaros Asenath

​

At the edge of the landing site, the acolyte lingered; his stance was several paces away from Malum, but still close enough to witness the scene slowly unfolding before him. From Lysander's current position, his cousin was like a pillar of strength in the way he cradled the child with both protectiveness and gentleness, which he found to be admirable.

Usually, the teen's words flowed freely, full of never-ending chatter, often ill timed, and filled with jokes and random observations.

But today, his heart twisted unexpectedly, for a twinge of guilt was gnawing at the edges of his usual bravado.

Swathed in inky darkness, the cloak draped over Lysander’s lithe frame, whispering gently against the ground, concealing the curved hilt of his lightsaber. The teen's youthful features, untouched by the cruelty of time, appeared thoughtful. Though sorrow weighed on his shoulders, he tried to carry it quietly, still processing the horrors of Ukatis. Ghosts of lost loved ones shifted through his thoughts, but amidst the ruins, others had been found—the Marrs, family he had not known about until his blade struck true and brought an end to King Horace's reign.

He strode forward at an easy pace, but soon steady. His gaze swept across the other figures that were gathered; whether kin, or allies, he was still uncertain, as all faces were unfamiliar. Yet, something in their presence felt inevitable, like they were threads meant to be woven.

Lysander did not feel lost among them.

But it wasn’t wholly at home, either.

His focus fixated on Malum once more as the older Sith spoke to the girl cloaked in layers of fur; but there was little comfort radiating from her demeanor. He couldn’t deny the curiosity, wondering what kind of leader the Dark Councilor might be, for his words weren’t barked, nor did he seem to be the impatient type. Until now, he had spent a fair amount of time studying under Revna, who surprised him with a more kind and fostering nature, even as a Sith.

And then, he heard voices from two others, their words touching upon the term cousin, and he couldn't help but begin focusing on them, hoping to gain a better understanding of their dynamic, without making it too obvious.

So, he stood, watching, listening, waiting for the right moment to fit in.

 

[Armaros Asenath]

Tags: Darth Malum of House Marr , Aeizori-Mei Kaeirosae

The seven of them formed a small vanguard in the side hall. Six of his Death Brigadier honor guard were clad in their matte black wolfsbane armor that seemed to swallow the light around them. Thick breathing tubes curled from their iron death masks, capturing the contorted faces of blessed martyrs in their final moments. Their crimson visor-lenses blazed like raging embers.

Asenath was staring out of the window, busying himself examining the extravagant gardens of the courtyard and terraces below, when he heard footsteps behind him. He swung around to find that the newcomer was an oddity. He'd seen divine miracles, mind-warping void gods, and reality-shattering technology in his campaigns, but Chervertim-Colonel Asenath could scarcely believe that her nine tails were real. They possessed such considerable fluff that he could drop a main battle tank on them and there'd barely be sound to wake a Kowakian monkey-lizard.

He made a mental note to ask his gracious host later the payment required to remove one of the tails. The forge-smiths back on Pandemonium would be very interested in the material when it came to stealth technology research.

Asenath shook his head and strode forward past his guards to the palace menial. He was tall and broad-shouldered, wearing a black storm coat with an upturned collar that revealed the red lining inside. A peaked officer's cap projected a shadow that covered half of his face. A single orange dot glowed from the darkness.

"This Aeizori could help first by informing me of the resource requirements needed for one day of upkeep for the Palace," he said as he tugged at one of the massive velvet curtains to examine it. His voice was harsh, though it always was like that, but there seemed to be a tint of curiosity within it. "Though I can hazard a guess or two. For the cost of dusting for these banners alone, I could have manufactured a main battle tank from scratch. From the water debt of the gardens, I could have raised a regiment."

The shadow disappeared, revealing the other half of his face. It was disfigured: a mess of knotted flesh upon which blocks of cybernetics had been brutally bolted. His robotic eye was more akin to a targeting scope than an organ of sight in the intense way it locked onto everything with a singing gaze.

That robotic eye snapped onto Aeizori.

"Why..." he muttered, "bother with all this?"

 

[Mariah of House Marr]

The woman raised her brows as Aeizori-Mei Kaeirosae went from servant, to sphere. That was...unexpected. She continued her distracted work through her droids of aiding in the practical administrations of handling all of this. It could disrupt her work too...disappointing. But the delays would most certainly be of minimal consequence anyway. She'd simply have to do some of the work through one of her other bodies.

Malum had given her orders now, good, best to not have this one around the children at this time. It would only be distracting. Mariah bowed her head towards him calmly, "I'll use some of my droids to help aid in the progress but I don't think I'll be of much use. You've already seen how my parenting skills turned out." there was a hint of disappointment and maybe genuine guilt in that statement in reference to her son Koto, she had other kids, and didn't really know any of them. So they didn't account for much on her part either.

Instead, she strode away, following Aeizori. she glanced back, realizing Lysander von Ascania had spotted her but not recognizing the man. However she still felt her time better spent trying to get this woman of fluff and anxiety back into some kind of working order. "Aizori, it's alright now." her voice came out as almost genuinely motherly, it had to be...partly faked, but she was very good at that. Making up for the lack of instincts with literal decades of experience, "You can relax." she placed a gentle hand on her upper back and shoulder.

Then they met Armaros Asenath and his guards. Mariah watched each of them, her drones giving her an extra view from varying angles as they hovered past on their own tasks. She was growing better and better at that. She was no powerhouse in combat, but these utilitarian skills, alongside rituals and spells, were things she specialized in. She viewed them with caution, but a simple nod of the head in greeting, maintaining utter sith noble poise. The man asked for numbers from Aizori. Mariah wasn't sure she'd know, she probably could figure it out herself. But she wasn't asked, and didn't have a reason to share.

Her head tilted back as she saw his full face however. She knew cybernetics too. And to be gentle, it looked like someone asked a novice to do a masters work, and then stopped halfway through. "Do you want the practical answer? Appropriate aesthetics encourage both personal and broad reaching psychological and emotional differences that can be used to benefit. Forgoing aesthetics is never truly purely practical unless the galaxy ends up made of droids. Though that would prove incredibly convenient for someone like me." she offered.


Darth Malum of House Marr Aeizori-Mei Kaeirosae Lysander von Ascania Darth Strosius

 

[Aeizori-Mei Kaeirosae]

As Mariah of House Marr followed her, and spoke those words towards the clearly distressed maid, she didn't seem to respond at all. Though an ear did twitch, as she did hear those words being spoken. Whether or not she relaxed before encountering Armaros Asenath remains a question. Still dreadfully walking. Still having her head lowered downwards. Falling back to old routines.

Still. Her response remained the same. A dull life-less question, followed by her eyes darting around the room. At the dust and dirt in which him, and his men brought around against her clean carpet. A hand twitched, and she looked upon what he was doing to that banner. His hand pressing against the fabric. Those fingers causing creases and the like against the nice brushed flat surface. She winced. An urge arising. The feeling to depart to straighten up the place.

The dubious servant's response continues in that tone she spoke of earlier. "Master Malum has several servants in which he pays for. At least, Aeizori believes. Aeizori cannot speak for why Master Malum has such items. Maybe to show how important he is to the rest of those that visit." Her eyes soon trail downwards, back towards the man's feet, once more showing who has control in this conversation. After all, a servant follows the wishes of all guests and owners of the estate.

"As for how clean the place is. Aeizori maintains. She cleans this particular room several times daily. Not because she's told to. Not because of payment. But because she wants to. It brings joy and happiness." She could go on about how dirty the soldiers just made the room, how crumbled the banner became, but she holds back.

After speaking, she moves to take a step back mostly to be behind Mariah now. She said her piece, and now awaits for permission to speak again it seems.

Darth Malum of House Marr

 

[Lúthien Tinúviel]

Interacting: Darth Strosius
Others: Darth Malum of House Marr | Mariah of House Marr | Aeizori-Mei Kaeirosae | Armaros Asenath | Lysander von Ascania | Elise of House Marr |

This was very unusual. Aiding slaves, children instead of doing something more destructive.

My time thus far as a Tsis'Kaar has been filled with combat, missions, deep-cover operations and getting stuck on backwater planets hunting down enemies of the state. Making sure that all within the black wall would be dealt with haste and prejudice. After this last assignment, I had been recalled by my Sponsor to aid in this effort of moving slaves from one world to another.

Trading Chains it seemed.

I kept my words to myself. Opting to be like a Child. Being seen, but not heard. My boots softly padded through the halls of the vessel and finally reached the bridge. Moving closer to my kindred individual. Watching him work his magic in directing others where they needed to be. My eyes played across those that were performing their tasks. Yet here I was barely awake, but still pushing.

"Lord Strosius, You requested my presence. I will be quick to assume that this takes priority over our operations with the Black Wall?"

Hands clamped together. Flesh against the prosthetic's chill. Standing nearly at a parade rest, just more relaxed than some other soldier who would ever stand before the man. I did dare to don my armor. This was official business and being able to wear it for the first time in a couple months felt normal to me at the moment. Donning armor provided to me in my official capacity of a member of Tsis'Kaar felt like a requirement. Not running around with shambled garb meant for seedy bars, and backwater swamps.

"For a lack of questioning, What is the purpose of moving these... people from one planet to another?"

The question seemed almost offensive at first. As if I questioned the entire thing. When in truth I wanted information to understand what was going on. Perform my duty to the best of my ability. With haste I finished my thought.

"Making sure this transition is as smooth as it can be, I'd rather not make a mess."

 

[Darth Strosius]

Darth Strosius had been tapping on and issuing orders from the command console since the flotilla entered into the system, trying to wrangle the movement of personnel and supplies into a more efficient and manageable order. Evidently what advanced warning about the new arrivals that Alvaria had received hadn't been quite as heeded as was necessary. Either that or they hadn't been expecting all that much aid to come for the refugees. Regardless organizing the landings was a trying and time consuming task.

But not one that was at all unfamiliar to Darth Strosius and His followers, albeit this time they had to work with others rather than handling it all themselves. That was fairly uncommon for them, especially in this regard, but they were adjusting rather quickly all things considered. His direct guidance and coordination were key to that fact alone.

"All matters can take precedence over our operations with the Black Wall." He responded simply, as He finalized some typing before glancing back at the agent. "There is little need to hasten when our prey is already cornered and trapped." The unexpected expansion of the wall itself had essentially made most if not all of the Tsis'Kaar's hunting efforts far easier now that escape from Sith space was all but impossible. Even the "new" frontier was still locked within the barriers of the wall and as such any who fled were just delaying the inevitable.

His typing paused at the question of purpose, His hidden gaze snapping back to regard her with its dark visor. Her tone had drawn His attention more so than the question itself but her swift follow up did seem to ease whatever emotion was festering behind His mask. Although His gaze didn't leave her for a long moment still. Normally He would lambast any who would question such a rescue but with one such as Nightingale He was uncertain how it would be received.

There was so little virtue to be found within the ranks of the Sith at present, and no honor worth speaking of at all. To shoot down the question on the basis of morality alone would either not have any real impact on her at all or might even inspire ire or distrust in Himself and the task at hand. Neither option was preferrable and thus an alternate approach was needed.

"Come now Nightingale, have you no concept of empire?" Rather than admonishing or angered, He spoke more like one would to a colleague that hadn't been privy to some meeting or decision. "Loyalty does not bloom from the barrel of a gun, nor does it flow from the edge of a blade. You cannot force it, but you can foster it. Give it soil and it will grow all on its own. You must give those that you seek to entice some incentive, something not only to respect but also to strive for."

He nodded to the projected display above the console, showing off readings of the refugees and the transports as they were being unloaded. "These people have endured slavery, a heinous crime and circumstance, and are now being shown mercy and given a second chance at life. They will never forget this act Nightingale. Even if Darth Malum would ask nothing of them in return, they will want to repay him. They will want to serve so that they can one day enact this same kindness upon others through him. That is the purpose. That is how you build an empire."

Darth Malum of House Marr / Aeizori-Mei Kaeirosae / Mariah of House Marr / Elise of House Marr / Armaros Asenath / Lysander von Ascania / Lúthien Tinúviel

 

[Lúthien Tinúviel]

Interacting: Darth Strosius
Others: Darth Malum of House Marr | Mariah of House Marr | Aeizori-Mei Kaeirosae | Armaros Asenath | Lysander von Ascania | Elise of House Marr |

The words, in such a tone. I could have sworn hearing a sigh before the voice of the masked visage had chosen to look at me. It was no doubt that a piercing gaze was eyeing my form while giving the explanation. It was clearly taken. This is a learning moment for myself. He knew I had once been a slave to a cult that desired destruction and loyalty by the tip of a blade. I knew not what made an empire run. I just knew it did. The cogs in the machine that powered such a state was foreign to me. So the context given, the explanation, while truthful and to the point, was clear in its tone alone.

These are things I needed to learn yesterday.

Nodding my head, and bowing it lightly of the respect for daring to encourage my hasteful words and questioning, I replied quickly before speaking again.

"A gift of divine benevolence to impose a feeling loyalty to something greater than one's self."

Moving closer to the projected ships and assets moving about the system, everything being tracked in its digital red glow. I ventured to pick more into this application of providing support to people less fortunate.

"This act of fortune gifted to those who were forsaken, is the act to provide something greater to the people beneath ones on station of power or leadership. Thus, one can nurture loyalty borne of Love and Admiration, in place of Fear, and Helplessness."

My vision turned to his own personage. Directly to the mask and feeling his own emotions of such actions. There was more to this than just a political power. Was this an act of furthering one's standing? Protecting their public perception? or even justifying their ego for past deeds. Yet, those thoughts stay locked deeply within. Sith were people who did something for a reason. Mostly for personal gain. I learned that the Maw did things for their twisted sense of cultic community. Sith are a people who better their empire, their order, so they can find power within it. Pieces of the puzzle that was this political game were meeting together into a more clear picture of what was being made.

"Enduring Slavery of any kind requires strength. benefiting from that strength to fortify our strength is a political play just as much as it is a moral quandary. Everyone lifting everyone makes the society stronger. Yet, it confuses me. Wouldn't that strength wane should those uplifting others, not have a solid foundation?"

 

[Elise of House Marr]

Ah, Darth Strosius . She never really was clear on how all that got...resolved, or why he was working with them again. But regardless, that wasn't the point right now. Right now, she was huddling around a bunch of children seeping calm and safety into the force around her to try and help them. Of course, if she was after power, a group of fearful and pained children was an easy source. But power was never of that much interest to her.

The smile returned as he turned towards his sister, her accusatory tone heard far before it was spoken, "...They have nowhere else... some have no one else..." The children, so often so suspicious, were seemingly quick to warm to the presence of the strangest of the Marrs, their guards dropping around the noble lady... who acted as anything but.

"Any assistance would be appreciated." He stated in a tone that betrayed how underprepared he was.

The not-quite-so-noble lady gave him a reluctant but accepting expression, before her pity returned to the children. She couldn't necessarily blame him...she just wished there was somewhere better for them than here. The heart of ANY sith stronghold was a place of danger and darkness, even one like the Marrs. For all their luxury and concern for wellbeing, a host of children were at risk in a place like this. But then, maybe it was safer than elsewhere. She didn't exactly consider orphanages security very often. Aeizori-Mei Kaeirosae seemed to be having her own trouble, and left with one of their cousins. But Elise was currently holding up one of the younger children trying to cheer them up, and had a second holding onto her other hand which she'd lift and let back down here and there. "Alright, come on, we've got all sorts who can help you out here." she called out to the children beckoning and urging them to accept the aid of the others as well. It's not like she could help all of even the few he'd let off already. Lysander von Ascania she beckoned at, "You know anything about kids? If not, uhhhh." she looked over all of the group present, "Time to figure it out! Just be gentle would you? Maybe just help coordinate but even just helping keep one or two happy until they can eat is go-don't pull too hard- good." she had to briefly, and gently admonish the child that had latched onto her hair. It didn't actually hurt, she'd slammed her head into stone before a little tug meant nothing, but it was a bad habit to do. Especially hair.

With that, Elise focused on helping scurry children along with the aids, cautioning the guards about potential wounds or weaknesses. Her sense had been raised to such an extreme level that she could hear any sounds of lingering fluid in lungs, or smell the sickness from breath and sweat. But it didn't take the force to feel their lingering pain. Pain she doubted would ever fully go away.

"You really did catch me off guard this time." she added to Darth Malum of House Marr , though good naturedly, bouncing one of the children.

Not interacting with but maybe relevant:
Lúthien Tinúviel Darth Strosius Aeizori-Mei Kaeirosae Armaros Asenath

Spoiler: Equipment

Personal equipment:
Draika iv misina (Lava lightsaber)
Red lightsaber with sturdy hilt
Datapad

 

[Darth Nefaron]

How far the Sith had fallen.

The disgusting compassion. They bend to the needs of the weak.

One day, Nefaron would return for his servants. All the better to let them taste freedom.

For he would rob them of it. He would cast them back into darkness.
​

Nefaron had been summoned by his master, Darth Malum, but he was delayed. The great victory achieved on Ukatis had much fallout, but in the end, the goals of the Sith had been advanced, and the Corpse Lord had gained a powerful new weapon in his arsenal. Nefaron had needed to prove his worth to the Master of the Tsis'Kaar, and so he did. Ukatis burned, the Sith having struck a blow deep into Alliance space, and the Sith lost very little in the process. Whatever family drama ensued would only work to the Corpse Lord's favor, but he knew why he had been summoned before Malum. This was no triumph; Nefaron was to be chastised, to be shown a message that he could not easily forget:

I can take away everything you have.​

It was true. The resources of the Tsis'Kaar could not be matched by Anoat, and so Nefaron must obey.

But he was not welcome here. Malum's sycophants were busying themselves with the slaves that had been taken from Anoat. Though Nefaron did consider openly announcing himself and bringing forth fresh trauma to the people Malum had freed, he thought better of it and arrived as plainly as possible. Concealed in his black cloak, his ruined visage contained by shadows. For the sake of the theatrics, Nefaron carried with him a simple wooden walking stick, his black, twisted wood revealing his true nature of corruption and decay. But for appearances' sake, he was but an old man in the service of the House of Marr.

As Nefaron made his way toward the presence of Darth Malum, he had time to immerse himself in the Force, to attempt to peer into the darkness of the future to determine the best course. Instead, all he received was a vast collection of various emotions ranging from utter relief to crippling sadness. No doubt he sensed the slaves experiencing something akin to freedom, but hidden in all the weakness was the presence of one Nefaron had wished to forget.

Strosius. Of course, he is here.

The fool was always so keen on protecting the weak.
​

It was best that Nefaron avoided any interaction with him in any case. There was much lingering between the two, and Veradun's training had not progressed far enough yet for the Corpse Lord to be confident that he had been freed of whatever nonsense Strosius had put in his head. One day, he would be tested by his master to confront the High Prophet as an enemy. Oh, how he would relish that day, but that was yet to come.

As Nefaron neared Malum, he made his presence known in the force. He continued to hobble along, but the Lord of House Marr was well aware that his honored guest had arrived.

Nefaron would have to put on a good show.

"Apologies, My Lord-" Nefaron began, bowing his head in the presence of Darth Malum, "I was delayed. There was much to do following our triumph on Ukatis."

TAGS: Darth Malum of House Marr Darth Strosius Aeizori-Mei Kaeirosae Armaros Asenath Lúthien Tinúviel Mariah of House Marr Lysander von Ascania Elise of House Marr ​