Private Insanity meets Longevity

[Diarch Rellik]

Location:
Aboard the DSD-Vault
Diarch Rellik's Flagship
Diarchy Space​

Tags: Countess Anétresya

It was a normal boring day for the Diarch. His apprentice Lyssara Thrynn was off on her on adventures. Something about finding more specimens for study within their shadow laboratory, the minx was probably causing some larger scale trouble for him. He had nothing to do and it was driving him mad. As he paced across the command center of his flagship he received a personal call upon his encrypted communicator. Darius Vex himself.

He moved to his personal chambers at lighting speed. Answering the Holo promptly, He revered Darius and held a special place in his heart for their intelligence agency.

Information was relayed to him that a woman known as Aurelia Xonavi had been noted to purchase some books Rellik had been personally looking for. Esoteric texts that would help boon his power and knowledge base. Supposedly this woman had been staying at the - Qeniora Tower of Jutrand - A lavish estate that held the title of third largest skyscraper upon the planet with three-hundred floors.

Rellik requested Darius gather intelligence on the owner of the building and schedule him a stay. He would be staying at the establishment under the guise of enjoying the high end casino and restaurants, with a swim or two in their pools on the lower levels. It would be under his official title and name as Diarch Rellik. He deemed this a suitable place to hold a vacation so fake names or disguising himself was not necessary. If someone from Jutrand wanted to speak to him, they could. He had no fear in that regard even with the Academy there.

The books he was looking for would help him and his apprentice upon their never ending journey for more power. A worthy endeavor and if he had the time and a few games of Sabacc never hurt.

He left his quarters and returned to the command center. He relayed the information to his Captain to near the system and than he would take a personal shuttle to the ground once arrangement's were made.

He pondered which one of his suits to wear for the event. Possibly some slacks, collared shirt and his fine Zeyd-cloth shoes with a suite jacket over the top. A woman looking for books such as these would be no push over but he did not deem it necessary to walk around in his Diarch attire everywhere. Anyway, security was typically very tight in places such as this. He might need the Network to infiltrate his lightsaber if it could not be brought in.

 

[Countess Anétresya]

Odd. There wasn't many guests that interested the Lady of the tall skyscraper, as her assistant would give her a notice of the important ones, from the grand senators to other celebrities that made their stay in the heart of Jutrand. But as she looked at the notice of the VIP list today, she was rather piqued to see the name of Diarch Rellik on there.

Diarch Rellik, one of two who now governed the Bastion stage. But not only that, he was the sith Master to one of her thralls Lyssara Thrynn . Surely she would have given her some sort of notice to let her know that her master was visiting her estate, but this was quite unexpected. Anetresya wondered if something happened to dear Miss Thrynn that called for an audience with her Master, or if this Diarch Rellik was simply nosy about his apprentice's whereabouts.

Regardless, Lady Anetresya closed her datapad. "Arrange for dinner with our guest here, Caitlan." She handed the twiliek assistant the datapad. She would find out what the motives of Diarch Rellik was herself.

--------------------------------------​

The Lady was never late. In a classy burgundy dress and an elegant gold necklace to pair, she sat at the private area of the Qenoir Sky-Tavern reserved for the elite patrons waiting for her guest. The area featured a grand view overlooking the city of Jutrand. Upon arrival to the restaurant, the man would be escorted to the table by the waitstaff.

Anetresya stood from her seat, hand extending towards him in greeting. "Thank you for joining me this evening, Mister Rellik. I trust you are enjoying your stay here?" She asked as far as pleasantries went. Lady Anetresya found her seat again, now cutting to the point. "I assume you are here to question about your apprentice Miss Thrynn?"

 

[Diarch Rellik]

As he prepared for arrival to Jutrand, word came through that a dinner had been arranged with the owner of the building. Countess Anetresya, a supposedly powerful woman among the elite of the world.

As he descended the view of the city was beautiful. The tower itself hosted within the capital of the planet. The lights from the sheer amount of buildings made it look as though you were gazing out into space, not unto land.

Wondering if some form of guard or procession would be awaiting him he left his saber aboard his ship. He did not want to start a formal incident as he did not know the politics of the planet and a slight such as bringing his weapon could cause bigger trouble for the Diarchy. If the situation were dire enough one of his bodyguards would bring it down for him.

When he did arrive though he was just met cordially. The building did have impressive security. He checked in and made his way to his room on the upper floors. There he prepared for his dinner with the owner. Whispers from other guests gave him a hint that she was a beautiful woman so he wore a fine tuxedo. Ensuring everyone knew who he was he put on a small necklace on that had the Diarchy logo forged from Durasteel hanging from it.

He went down to the restaurant where for the first time he was met by a procession of staff. They would guide him into a more secluded area, presumably meant for high end clientele.

The gossip was true, what awaited him at the table was a beautiful woman. She appeared young for having such stature but Rellik deemed there was more to her than meets the eye. - Upon his approach she rose and put a hand out to him. Rellik gave her a firm handshake along with a slight bow.

"This is a wonderful building you have. Everyone has been professional and diligent. I could see coming here often. Thank you" As he spoke he lowered himself down into a seat across from Anetresya - studying her.

Than she cut to the chase. Questioning Rellik if he was here on behalf of his apprentice Lyssara. He was slightly taken aback by it. He wondered if his pupil was in danger. He decided to keep his cool until he knew the entire situation.

"Well no, I came for one of your guests. The Diarchy's intelligence network had been looking into some old books for me. Supposedly one of your guests named Aurelia Xonavi purchased them recently and is currently within the building. I was going to offer her a large sum of money in exchange for them." Rellik had decided to be honest with her about his intentions. Hoping that she would reveal the information regarding Lyssara with the same professional manner.

He had kept a calm and friendly demeanor until now. He sat straight in his chair and looked Anetresya in her eyes. If she failed to be honest with him he would try to enter her mind than and there and get the information directly from the source using Qâzoi Kyantuska.
"My apprentice has quite the free reign you see. She is one of the more proficient pupils of our order. What business does she have with you, if you do not mind me asking? My main concern dear countess is that she is in trouble. If that is the case perhaps we can strike a deal before things turn for the worse within this fine establishment." He relaxed but kept his eyes on hers.

Tags: Countess Anétresya

 

[Countess Anétresya]

Interesting. The Diarch revealed what he was truly here for, not to enquire about Lyssara but rather another, the name of the ancient witch. Her own name, Aurelia Xonavi. He wasn't the first to come looking for knowledge and she rarely ever granted it to those who sought it.

The threat, on the other hand was less unexpected. She let out an almost condescending laugh at the absurdity of it all. It was always with the sith. "Here I was worrying that something happened to my dear Lyssara that had you looking for me. I'm sure she is perfectly fine, somewhere in this galaxy. She is... A close friend of mine." Although the way her words were said so coyly would imply otherwise.

"Now," The Lady said, ever so poised. "Where are my manners?" She beckoned one of the wait staff, a tall zeltron, over to take their orders. She did, after all, invite him for dinner. "Just the usual for me, darling." There was something about the exchange, be it her gaze or tone of voice that made one wonder on the extent of familiarity with the waitress.

Now that the misunderstanding was cleared on Miss Thrynn, they could talk about her. Or rather, Aurelia Xonavi. "What do you know about Aurelia Xonavi? She is a woman with many assets, I doubt she'd be interested in simple credits."

 

[Diarch Rellik]

There was a moment of relief for the Diarch. He did not want to fight his way out of three hundred floors of security, especially without his saber. The Countess let out a hearty laugh - one that Rellik resonated with having done the same many times.

She herself supposedly cared for Lyssara - "A close friend". Something he would want to dive into more as the two spoke since she said it with an almost seductive and vague manner. There was more to the plot that Rellik was being left out of. Women with this level of looks and power tended to be enigmatic. Only adding to her allure. For him, it was now more of a game. One he enjoyed.

As he relaxed and took a sip of wine that was poured before he arrived Anetresya gained the attention of the wait staff. He enjoyed every motion from the Countess. They were subtle and sultry. After she ordered they turned to Rellik. "A sharper drink for me, nothing else; Thank you." Without his robes and attendants you would not be able to tell Rellik was royalty. He spoke and acted casually, just professional enough for the setting but not haughty.

"We know near nothing about the woman. You have such a fine building I figured a vacation here would be good enough reason to come, let alone Aurelia. It just gave me good reason to get out of my ship and do something for a few days. Being a ruler can be incredibly boring." He finished his drink swiftly and requested another.

"I appreciate the drinks and a dinner with a beautiful woman is always welcome but you seem to know her and me. Some would say the Diarchy's legend has traveled far. I am not as well known as my brother though so I believe you know more than you let on. If you are so inclined as to fill me in on Aurelia, I guess I would owe you something in return."

He gave her a soft smile and his words were playful when he spoke. He assumed she enjoyed toying with her food as much as he did. Playing into this nature with his words and demeanor.

Tags: Countess Anétresya

 

[Countess Anétresya]

Black market auctions in the depths of cities across the galaxy were usually where she obtained such relics. They weren’t easy to come by, if anything, this man should know the pricelessness of such objects. She had always left her breadcrumbs as a witch, using her old name rather than her current as Lady of the tower in the transactions for the tomes.

She was too well-versed with the tactic of flattery not to recognise his use of it. It was amusing to say the least. “It’s hard to believe you would come seeking a woman you hardly know anything about. Aurelia Xonavi is a resident in this tower, not a guest. It would be a far stretch for me to divulge on their information would it not? The privacy and security of guests and residents within this building is always of utmost priority. “ She loved playing her cards. If what the man said was true, he wouldn’t have any reason to suspect that she was who he sought. It was too easy to benefit from this exchange.

The Lady clasped her hands together on the table, leaning forwards. “Of course, I might consider making an exception depending on what you have to offer, Mister Rellik.” Hopefully he would make it interesting for her.

Then the staff returned, a glass of dark red wine on a silver platter and a low crystal glass of deep amber liquid for Rellik - the Naboo Sorghum Whisky. She set Rellik’s drink down first before placing Anetresya’s. “Thank you, Yandre. For your service.” Her voice low, her gloved hand extended, handing the waitress a small bronze vial. The waitress pocketed the vial hastily before giving the countess a small bow.

Anetresya lifted her drink to her lips. The liquid in it seemed a bit too viscous than the usual beverage. She took a sip before continuing. “I am not one who takes an interest in politics. I have only heard about you from the words of Miss Thrynn. “

 

[Diarch Rellik]

Even if the Diarch was being an out of the loop fool it at least appeared like Anetresya was amused by it all. For now, that would be good enough of a footing to stand on. She did not seem afraid of having the force used against her, apparent by her laughing before. She was educated and possibly, powerful.

He pondered everything she had said. It was time to put the puzzle pieces together and match her wit. As he did so she moved the business deal forward.

Leaning in with intent and from a position of power. She spoke knowing she had everything he came here for. As she closed the distance, playfully gauging him, Rellik would remain cool. He enjoyed the whole dealing. By the whills this dinner might be more interesting than the books he came here for originally.

She put forward that his proposition would need to be an intriguing one. Luckily for her, this brother was known for being more erratic. He leaned in back towards her, his light sand colored eyes now looking like a small fire were burning within them. Drink swirling in his hand.

"You know countess, I did not know people lived here permanently. Under different circumstances I would perhaps move in myself. Instead, I offer you the opportunity to establish a new building similar to this one. - Within Diarchy space. My only stipulation is that I have a permanent housing in one of the penthouse suits and that you abide by our laws. If you do that, I will even help fund its construction."

As he finished his words the wait staff returned with their drinks. A even higher end Whiskey was brought to the Diarch and for the Countess, a deep thick liquid. Rellik himself finishing his second drink and picking up the third; would watch as the transaction unfolded, the woman slipping a vial openly to the servant. curious* he thought.

"I am not one who takes an interest in politics. I have only heard about you from the words of Miss Thrynn. " - Here the game became evident. Lyssara had spoken of dealings with a Sangnir but the Diarch did not force the conversation. His apprentice had never hidden anything from him before so he did not see the point. He assumed once the dealings moved forward she would come to him for aid or knowledge like she usually does.

The Countesses was beautiful, had perfect youth yet wealth and power along with the way her servants headed her every need.

"Ah, I understand now." Taking a sip of the fine liquor and rubbing his temple slightly like a father who had just heard distressing news. He spoke the next words softly as to not offend his host. "You have taken my apprentice in and now you are her Matron. I understand the terminology changes depending on the host but am I correct?"

His worries for his apprentice were his own to deal with. There would be no point in trying to sway Anetresya from doing what is within her character to do. Removing his hand back down and lifting his head with a smile. To re-settle the mood he spoke openly again.

"For our business, this changes little. We have many - unique people within Diarchy space. As long as you do not break any laws, you are welcome. If you help me to seek more power and wish to expand your own, let us toast to a deal." He gently flicked his wrist upward. Ready to fully lift it if the countess were to do the same.

Countess Anétresya

 

[Countess Anétresya]

All that just for information about herself. This offer would benefit both her and Rellik, who wanted a place like her tower within his ruling territory and for him to have his own constant luxury accommodation at his disposal. Who wouldn’t want that? The Qenoira Tower was an exceptional place. To many, it was an offer more than adequate enough that one wouldn't hesitate to accept. But Anetresya would push. She hadn't achieved this much power over the many years simply by accepting what was given.

He had notice the exchange with the waitress. Clearly Lyssara had told her Master about them, or he had figured out himself. She wondered what the dynamic was like between Lyssara and her Master, but he seemed to be concerned. “The terminology I would use would be friends… with certain benefits.” Anetresya didn’t deny or confirm his speculation as it might affect the standing of Lyssara within her own training. Although she’d be lying to say that the term Matron wasn’t the very least fitting.

They went back to discussing on business. “In addition to what you offered, I would like a place in your court, or council.“ She was reaching far as she always did, expanding her own power and influence. “A counsel, perhaps?”

 

[Diarch Rellik]

Her responses were quick, moving the conversation fluidly. She was a smart woman who knew how to leverage a situation to her advantage; Rellik thought it was wonderful to meet another keen mind.

"friends… with certain benefits." It might have been the several drinks he had partaken it doing some talking but for a flash of a moment he thought to himself. "That might be something I could enjoy as well" before shaking the idea from his head. Ensuring that he did not become enchanted under any form of the force, at least until the deal was done.

"In addition to what you offered, I would like a place in your court, or council."...
"A counsel, perhaps?"

Rellik was re-affirming the stipulations of the deal in real time. Diarchy space would benefit from the tourism of the Countess's tower. Its citizens could partake in the many lavish areas of the facility, even the Diarchy's more powerful branches could hold meetings there.

If the Countess would become something akin to a personal confidant, the Diarch could see her more... Wait, what he meant was that he could study her, of course. He could learn more about the powers her species held and how to use it for himself. He also needed her around if Lyssara was under some form of "contract" with her. Having Anetresya within Diarchy space would ensure that whatever Lyss needed from her, she could get.

"I accept but know this. Those under my direct command wear a pin to show their status. A small diarchy symbol with another emblem within. These emblems are unique to each person under me directly. For my personal hunter, Varis - his is a Dxun hound head within the Diarchy symbol. You may choose your own but if you wish to have any authority associated to me, you must wear it. Furthermore, I would need updates on your doings that involve me. If you fail in this task, you would be a traitor. Assume as long as you are wearing the pin, you are being listened to." He spoke the last line not as a threat, but as a friend helping another get away with being bad. A smile across his face as he took another sip of the whiskey.

"I do enjoy a good tease but now tell me the truth. If you think I can be generous in my dealings, wait until you see how I am once I actually get what I want." Rellik looked at her with a smile hiding his more sinister thoughts.

- It did not matter to him what sense of power she believed she would gain. If it befitted him, within the heart of his territory; she could disappear any moment. If she proved her worth than all the better for him.

Countess Anétresya

 

[Countess Anétresya]

As he spoke his terms, the Lady tapped the side of lower lip with the tip of a manicured finger nail as she mused. "More jewellery. Your diarchy symbol isn't as hideous as the sith. I wouldn't see why not." It was simple enough what he asked of her, to simply wear a broach of a ten pointed star to be listened to. But she'd think from what he already knew about him, and his mannerisms, the diarch would listen regardless of wether or not she was wearing it. "Oh, I am plenty sure my other doings in diarchy space would hardly concern you." Anetresya scoffed with a small feigned laugh before taking another sip of the beverage. She was perhaps even more self-centered than the man himself was.

"I believe we have an accord, Your Diarchy." The Lady extended her palm again as if to close the deal with a handshake. Then she stood from her seat. It was now time for her to uphold her end of the deal - to lead him to the ancient witch Aurelia Xonavi. "Come on now, Mister Rellik," She beckoned him to follow, making her way a private lift that served her penthouse. The two would be ascended a few levels upwards where the doors of the elevator opened to the luxurious interior of her living space. He was smart to add a penthouse of his own to his list in the dealings.

Heels clicked against the marble floor, wasting no time leading him to the library, the doors that were sealed shut with a security system that required her finger print to unlock. The doors slid open and the sensor lights blinked on revealing quite a massive private library. On the shelves lined up ancient tomes and grimoires she had collected over a decade. The books and records of history, priceless artifacts and relicks. "Hmm... Which book did you say you were looking for from the witch Lady Xonavi?" Her other identity would be made obvious by now. She had countless of artifacts acquired through blackmarket auctions.

 

[Diarch Rellik]

Tags: Countess Anétresya

Since the moment he sat down, there was a dance between the two. A study of gestures to find out truths or lies. Some playful and some dominating in nature, all of it exciting. There was a lot of power in the galaxy but sometimes the small moments with games like these made the soul flutter. Originally he believed there would be a lot of blood spilled before he left the building. It was almost silly how the grandness of it all could be boiled down to just two people talking.

"I believe we have an accord, Your Diarchy."

"We will be happy to have you within our space Countess Anetresya." Tilting his head and glass slightly in a sitting bow to her after he spoke.

Anetresya had accepted his terms, Rellik unsure exactly if either party came out on top. The two shared a handshake and rose from their seats.

Following her beckon they left the restaurant, a few steps behind he was able to fully take in the Lady's appearance as the two moved through the building. Something was enchanting, maybe it was the scent of Lavender in the air, possibly an air based alchemical agent that comes from her Sangnir nature. Not to be detoured he shoved these thoughts away again.

With his arms tucked behind his back they arose through the many floors of the tower. Finally reaching their destination - she moved and he followed, heels and fine loafers the only noise between them. Typically talkative - Rellik was busy coming to the realization this was her personal suite. He was studying little details, trying to gain information up until they arrived at the secure door.

Upon entering was a gigantic library the two standing side by side at its entrance. The Diarch gave a slight mischievous smile as he took it all in and tilted his head sideways towards her. "I had hoped to come to your chambers under better circumstances My lady Xonavi. Alas they do say nothing beats a good book." He moved forward and began to read through some of the book covers without pulling any of them out. Sometimes gently moving his hand near them to sense their power. Without turning his gaze from the texts he spoke aloud.

"I am here to find a book written by a woman named Lenore. My apprentice has recently been looking into the Ichor and has demonstrated some powerful abilities. I myself know little about it beyond my studies as a child form my father. My research has pointed towards a planet within the tingle arm where Diarchy space resides but no further information exists upon it that I can find. I am hoping this Lenore's works will give me more information on the Ichor and how to harness its power for my people. Hopefully leading me to this planet within my space where more practitioners reside."

Turning back he studied Anetresyas reaction to see if she knew anything about this information.

 

[Countess Anétresya]

The diarch named his book, one very familiar to her, belonging to a person she held close to her heart. Lenore was the first witch she met when she was 15 that opened up a whole new world for her. Lenore and Astrid were the first to teach her in ways of the nightsisters, Rellik must have done a lot of searching to track down their works to her doorstep.

Anetresya never knew that ichor magick was something Lyssara had an interest in - she rarely liked to stick her noses in the dwellings of her thralls, allowing the freedom to do as they pleased. The lady's identity as a witch was far more undisclosed than her already confidential one as a sangnir. But if Lyssara had asked, she would be more than willing to tutor.

Carefully, she'd pluck an old grimoire from the shelves, its leather cover already peeling from the wear through the ages. "All this knowledge, and you seek only the fundamentals? Harnessing ichor is only the most rudimentary of skills for a witch." It was still knowledge nonetheless. And knowledge was power. She knew better than to hand over power to just anyone. Throughout history, it had proven to be dangerous in the wrong hands.

The Lady turned to face him, the book he had came all the way here for in her grasp. "As per our agreement, I only said I would lead you to Aurelia Xonavi. I require more to grant you this knowledge." She tapped the cover of the book with a manicured nail. "And, I will need to learn more about you - and your people. What do you want to harness the power of the Ichor for Diarch Rellik?"

 

[Diarch Rellik]

Tags: Countess Anétresya

The Countess did not outwardly display any signs as Rellik divulged his intel. More so she seemed to just take the information in stoically, unperturbed and continuing forward in their deal she approached the bookshelf to pull out an old grimoire. Teasing the Diarch she explained that harnessing Ichor was one of the most basic tasks for a witch. Anetresya herself having a deep library, it was evident she was far beyond rudimentary techniques. Rellik for once would just be keeping his mouth shut. Standing with his hands behind his back and letting her speak. She turned and faced him.

"As per our agreement, I only said I would lead you to Aurelia Xonavi. I require more to grant you this knowledge."

The mostly joking and kind nature upon his face was now expressionless. The Diarch wondered how quickly he could choke her to death even without the force. He knew the small deceiving frame of the woman would give way to deep mysteries and knowledge but how much would that save her now that they were within inches of each other. As she spoke he pondered the abilities of Sangnir.

"And, I will need to learn more about you - and your people. What do you want to harness the power of the Ichor for Diarch Rellik?"

The murderous thoughts held themselves at the back of his conscious. The Diarch purposefully keeping them at bay in case she could sense his feelings. With his arms still behind his back he spoke calmly. Stepping slightly side to side as he began his semi rant.

"I am a man fascinated with techniques and history. Like I said before, my apprentice has taken some journey with witches of Dathomir recently and learned many new abilities. Now that I am face to face with such things, my interest has grown. The sector of the galaxy I am in control of known as the Diarchy is open to all methods of using the force. I can not guarantee exactly what we will use these powers for but I can promise it will be under my direct control who knows what I know. It will not be on the loose like a wild Reek."

Rellik would stop pacing and slowly come within inches of the Countess. Eyes interlocking and unblinking, hands now at his side and in a strong stature.

"The deal you are receiving is quite beneficial my dear. You underestimate the power you would receive in my counsel. Now, I do not wish to bring fire and war to Jutrand itself just for what you have here in your library. There are bigger fish here. If the planet I seek is near Diarchy space, I will find it. Just how I found you. I would prefer to do it in peace and with an open heart to the people there and their customs, for this I seek your grimoires. We in the Diarchy value all life but are not beyond ending it. If you wish to know more about me and my people I would suggest coming to Bastion yourself. I would be willing to give you the tour personally. I do value appeasement but do not attempt to manipulate the deal further thinking I am weak. If there is something you want, say it."

The word were laced with a chill. The malicious intent evident, it was now time for Rellik to ensure to stand his ground in these dealings. If she wanted something more, she would need to ask it of him. He was not a simple man, he was a Diarch with a large fleet, army and people who love him, not worrying to question his goals. The brothers did their best to be amicable but they were men of war. For the first time in their dealing, the Diarch would show it.