Star Wars Roleplay: Chaos

Register a free account today to become a member! Once signed in, you'll be able to participate on this site by adding your own topics and posts, as well as connect with other members through your own private inbox!

Private Moon River

The city of Lharakyone stretched out like a living tapestry along the banks of the Lharah Basin, its skyline a beautiful union of elegance and purpose. The rivers wove through the heart of the city and glittered like veins of cerulean, winding between lush terraces and stone promenades. Bridges arched gracefully over the water, covered in vines that soaked up the sun. The intricate designs of the bridges etched with Dyspethian motifs, a whisper of the planet's history.

From the heights of the Jade Skyline District, towers of emerald glass and sleek durasteel rose up like sentinels, their surfaces shimmered beneath the morning light. These towers were symbols of wealth, and ambition. A reflection of a people who had risen from the ashes of despair into prosperity. Yet beyond the gleaming towers, the city's true spirit unfolded. Lharakyone's bustling markets where artisans bartered over colorful textiles, riverside cafes filled with the murmur of conversation, and quiet courtyards where families gathered beneath the shade of climbing vines.

The air itself carried the scent of spice and citrus from the gardens that lined the city's many terraces. This was of course, a deliberate choice, blending beauty with function. Public squares were designed to calm the restless heart, fountains bubbling with crystal clear water drawn from the rivers that fed the Basin.

Peace in the city had not been born of complacency. It was born from resilience that had been woven into its very foundations. Military outposts stood discreetly at the city's edges. Ever watchful guardians, a reminder that Lharakyone's prosperity was protected, not promised. The Commonwealth's presence was unmistakable: efficient governance ensured trade flowed freely, resources were distributed wisely and Dyspeth's industries thrived with a rare independence. Strength in this city and indeed this world did not mean submission. It meant self-sufficiency, a quiet defiance against those who sought to exploit worlds like Dyspeth.

For Ivalyn Yvarro, the city had always fascinated her. And it was one of the many, many reasons she was proud to protect it and all of the Commonwealth's worlds. For Lharakyone was not merely a place of trade or politics. This was a testament to what the Commonwealth believed in: resilience, prosperity earned through purpose, and a people determined to shape their own future.

She had arrived at the Aurelian Terrance. It overlooked the Lhara Basin, this refined yet intimate venue with open-air seating, shaped by the elegant sone archways adorned with carved Dyspethian designs. The scent of citrus blossoms and jasmine carried along the breeze, and the sound of the river below lent itself for a soothing atmosphere. While understated, Ivalyn felt that it was prestigious, a place where quiet deals could be made.

The terrace itself was perched high above the city's central district, nestled within the Crown Quarter, an elevated sector known for its diplomatic residences and cultural landmarks. It was positioned along the cliffside ridges that define the city's upper limits, the Terrace offered an unparalleled view of Lharakyone's vibrant sprawl, a striking blend of marbled streets, copper domes, and lush riverbanks. Below, one could see the narrow canals weaving between districts, while the distant hum of trade and life filtered upward.

Now, all Ivalyn had to do was wait for her esteemed guest to arrive.


 
FqMKEmo.png





Visiting The Commonwealth
Dyspeth System
Lharakyone


WVr4XxG.png

Highly anticipated by the Lord Seer of Korriban, A'Mia was exceedingly eager when the time finally arrived for more formal interactions with Ivalyn Yvarro Ivalyn Yvarro of The Commonwealth. Before even exiting her shuttle, the neti's senses were alight with intrigue. She was doing her best to school the impulse to immediately expand her awareness out, understanding that her every action was likely to be highly scrutinized while she was planet-side. However, the novelty of it all did wash over her and cause her entire statuesque form to ripple faintly.

The general hustle and bustle, lively architecture and artistry on display at every turn, all accompanied by the energy of thriving trade and commerse. Everything about the environment that greeted A'Mia as she disembarked was envigoratingly new. She was somewhat well traveled, but the vast majority of her exposure to cultures other than strictly Sith had been fairly limited since waking from stasis on Kashyyyk.

Stepping with a dancer's grace, A'Mia followed the person who greeted her upon arrival. The beautiful hand woven basket she carried on her hip was politely examined and its contents explained simply, with no hint of guile or ill-will contained therein. The woman wore a flowing cream colored dress with a red-brown half sun embroidered along the dipping neck line. Her nearly seven foot tall figure was striking but it was very clear she arrived not as a warrior. This was a diplomatic visit and, despite A'Mia's childlike curiosity about this new environment, her focus couldn't waiver. There would perhaps be time later for leisure.

Upon arriving to the destination chosen by her host, large eyes alighting on a familiar figure, A'Mia slowed so she could offer a deep and sweeping curtsey.

"What a pleasure to see you again, Ivalyn," her bright voice practically sang out.

 

The voice that greeted her was bright and unmistakably graceful—like birdsong glancing off the water. Ivalyn Yvarro turned with a warmth that reached her eyes, her expression touched with that quiet serenity only the well-practiced carried with such natural ease.

"Lord Seer," she said with gentle reverence, inclining her head ever so slightly in greeting. "Well met indeed. Might I ask—do you have a preferred form of address?" Her tone was curious but gracious, and she extended a hand in subtle invitation, gesturing toward the open archway that led to the terrace. "If you'll indulge me, I thought we might speak out here. This is one of my favourite corners of the city—or rather, one of many," she added with a soft smile. "Lharakyone does not make choosing easy."

The air beyond the terrace doors was rich with the perfume of damp stone and blooming river flowers. Late afternoon sunlight filtered through the tracery of carved pillars, casting golden patterns over the pale tiles beneath their feet. A breeze moved languidly through the hanging gardens, stirring the lavender silks of Ivalyn's robe and drawing out the soft rustle of nearby foliage. The view stretched wide across the Lhara Basin below, its layered plateaus and verdant riverscapes bathed in a painter's palette of green, copper, and misted gold.

"Would you care for some tea?" she offered, turning slightly toward the set of delicate porcelain laid out on a low stone table between them. "There's huai shan, lemon, and ginger—all quite soothing. My personal favourite, however, is the Lhara Bloom Brew. It's floral, with a faint citrus note, best enjoyed with the view." She gave a small, self-aware shrug. "Though I will admit Amber Drift is rather popular. Earthy, with just the right touch of spice."

Ivalyn took her seat with the easy poise of someone deeply at home in her surroundings, her gaze settling fondly upon the riverside expanse below. The world felt a little slower here. A little kinder.

"It isn't often that I'm able to host visiting delegates in person—let alone on a world I hold such affection for," she confessed, a hint of playful mischief softening her tone. "Although, between us… I say that about all of them. Every world is my favourite, depending on the day and who's asking."

A brief pause.

"But this one…" she continued more thoughtfully, "this one is different. The land remembers here. The waters, the stone—it all lingers with a kind of quiet wisdom. I think you'll find the soil speaks, if you know how to listen."

She turned her attention back to her guest, her expression open, inquisitive. "Now, I believe we began a rather intriguing conversation over holo—environmental restoration, botanical research… and something of trade, was it not?" Her voice lilted slightly, inviting continuation. "I admit I've been looking forward to hearing your thoughts at greater length. There's so much more nuance in shared air than there is through static."
 
FqMKEmo.png






"Depending on the company and circumstance, both Lord Seer or Professor Madrona are both perfectly acceptable and appreciated titles. But between us? Or in less formal settings, you're most welcome to use A'Mia."

As to the question of indulgence, the neti merely nodded and swept her gaze over the beautiful view. It was a literal and figurative breath of fresh air to visit places aside from Korriban and feel quite so at home. It had been much the same when she visited Valrar, but generally she felt rather other amongst the average political gathering of Sith. And pointedly, when she traveled elsewhere in the galaxy, the woman generally needed to keep an extra low profile.

"Yes, thank you, that would be lovely," she murmured about the tea as she drifted a bit farther out onto the terrace, passing up the table only momentarily so she could properly appreciate

As her host sat, A'Mia gazed on across the river and out at the surrounding city. She wondered how long she'd be able to justify staying, how long her welcome would last, so that she might examine this place in more detail. As with any new ecosystem, the insatiably curious botanical wanted to gather as much data as possible. Patience was necessary though, so she turned back to the table. Placing the basket she carried down beside her, she practically flowed into the seat, her movements were so fluid.

"Precisely," the neti inclined her head and smiled faintly, the gesture actually reaching her eyes which were still alight with the interest of her host and surroundings.

"It seems more prudent than ever that worlds which exist somewhat on the periphery of The Order's priorities should seek to work together. Or at the very least, strive toward our own mutual self-sufficiency. With me I have brought some gifts of appreciation."

She meant the basket of course, but didn't yet reach toward it. A'Mia wanted to allow conversation to flow a bit, to gain a greater sense of the socio-political climate here before presenting the items she'd brought.



 

"A'Mia it is then," Ivalyn replied with quiet appreciation, the name laced gently in her refined Dosuunian accent. As though it were a rare and beautiful artifact worthy of car. Ivalyn gestured lightly toward the silver tea service now being set before them by one of the attendants.

The porcelain was lacquered in midnight blue, patterned with pale river lillies native to the Lhara Basin. A quiet but deliberate symbol of harmony and rootedness. A sshe poured, the floral steam curled upward into the soft breeze. "I believe you will quite enjoy the Lhara Bloom," Ivalyn offered as she filled their cups, A'Mia's first. "The petals are gathered only at first light, which makes this particular tea, meticulous to gather, but I feel that there's something quite noble about it."

A beat.

She poured her tea, and then gestured toward the sugar cubes, milk and honey. Sandwiches, light and small were brought around by the attendants, "A bloom that opens to greet the day's first light, the first hardship."

Ivalyn briefly studied the Neti across from her, not with suspicion, no, but with the careful awareness of one who had long navigated rooms filled with veiled intent. A'Mia moved with the kindof dignity and command that one did not often find among the more bombastic fixtures of the Sith Order. So, to say it was refreshing, would have been an understatement.

"I agree with you wholeheartedly. Worlds that lie on the fringes, the periphery as you mentioned, of the Order. Are far too often, overlooked until they are either exploited or extinguished. And yet, we possess more than mere utility. We are repositories of knowledge, of balance, of continuity. That is not something to be over looked, it is something to be cultivated."

When A'Mia gestured toward the basket, Ivalyn gave a warm and appreciative smile. "I am most honored to recieve this gift. Though, I must insist that your company alone is a gift in and of itself, however." Ivalyn with her hands folded gently across her knee, posture impeccable reached over and delicately moved the basket closer to herself.

However, the Grand Vizier was most interested in conversation. "It's not often I'm able to speak freely of things such as botany, agriculture and horticulture itself. Often I am at the mercy of Commonwealth scientists when such subjects are brought up, yet I am intrigued to hear what it is and how it is that Korriban has been transformed or what current research projects are of interest to you, A'Mia."
 
FqMKEmo.png






The botanical woman watched and listened as her host elaborated, displaying that there was indeed an art to such social maneuvering. Even one on one, perhaps more so than if they were in a crowd, it was becoming clear to A'Mia that there was nearly as much careful calculation in the field of sociopolitical navigation. She'd been learning some from Elmindra Xitaar Elmindra Xitaar of course, but there were also some skills that seemed inborn, that couldn't necessarily be taught if a person was devoid of them to begin with.

A'Mia knew she'd been born without the natural ability to put others at ease around her. Some medics and healers called it rapport or "bedside manner", and the neti could sense that something similar was at play here. Were she composed as most others were, pro-social and seeking connection, she sensed that Ivalyn Yvarro Ivalyn Yvarro would be weaving her in a net of comfortable companionship. As things stood, the cold Lord Seer registered that data alongside her earnest interest in the contents of her host's words

Right to business, with grace regarding the gift offered of course, but A'Mia was happy dive right into discussion. It would surely lead back to the contents of her basket anyway. She leaned in to delicately take up the tea cup and added nothing to it, much preferring to experience the full floral and earthy qualities of such drinks.

"The cultivation of such fine foods has truthfully never crossed my mind, but the aroma is lovely."

Her mind ran along divergent pathways, thinking on how one might be able to capture such an aroma- to use as an aerosol or to cloak something more nefarious. Not that she suspected anyone, rather because that could be something she might pioneer. She smiled politely at Ivalyn's mention of being at the mercy of others in conversation and how her time was spent. A'Mia was reminded of one of the benefits of still being marked at a middling rank. Respected and tasked with some responsibilities, but never so many that they interfered with her personal interests and projects.

"I've had a hand in a number of projects to further enrich Korriban, and most recently I'm working to alter some of our cave systems to make them more habitable to rare Sithspawn and medicincal fungi," she began to answer, more animated than before.

"I aspire to many projects but I am seeking connection outside of my innermost circle because resources and ideas can grow stale if one remains too insular. I am most eager to expand within the vassal cloud first, but seek connection with neighbors and similarly minded individuals as I seek to expand the scale of my work. Right now I work on in the micro or mezzo, but devlopment of technology and ideas that could benefit the macro would be ideal."

The neti paused to make room in the conversation for her companion.

 

Ivalyn listened with practiced attentiveness, her expression one of measured intrigue as the Lord Seer spoke of Korriban's transformation. The notion of that ancient, brooding world slowly reimagining itself, verdant, cultivated, something more than a graveyard of ghosts and ash, was not something she had expected to be so thoroughly fascinated by. And yet, she was. She'd seen it for herself when Iskendyr had gone to Korriban for a dance of some kind. She and Merryn had tagged along, and saw the transformation for themselves.

"I must confess," she said, lifting her teacup with quiet elegance, "the idea of Korriban being anything other than a world of shadow and solemnity was once unthinkable to me. But now, having seen the green canopies and viable ecosystems flourishing amid those once-dreaded canyons…" She glanced toward the Neti, a glimmer of curiosity in her gaze. "Tell me, is this transformation truly your doing? Or do you simply shepherd a vision greater than yourself?" The tone was inquisitive, almost academic, not skeptical but sincerely fascinated, as if she were parsing through the finer points of a well-argued thesis.

She set her cup down gently, the porcelain making the faintest tap against its saucer.

"Indeed," she continued, her voice gaining a touch more warmth, "you find yourself now among those who not only welcome such ambition, but thrive because of it. The Commonwealth has recently entered into a most promising accord, a strategic partnership between our Ministry and independent innovators to explore alternative energy production. Algal biofuels, oceanic turbines, atmospheric purification systems. Our intent is clear: to shift the weight of power from the artificial to the enduring."

A beat passed, and the wind carried with it the soft scent of chandra-salt incense from within the terrace, mingling with the floral notes of the Lhara Bloom tea. Ivalyn glanced toward the horizon, her voice more thoughtful as she added:

"We aim to become self-sufficient. But not merely through isolation or hoarding of resources. True sufficiency comes from the ability to adapt, to diversify, to welcome ideas from quarters where others might not think to look. You see, it is not only technologies we invest in, but minds. Visions. Your work, from what little I've seen, speaks to both."

She shifted slightly in her seat, her voice softening. "I do hope I'm not repeating myself," she admitted with a slight, self-aware smile. "It's just that I find this sort of exchange… invigorating. Refreshing, even."

Her gaze returned to the Lord Seer, steady and sincere. "It is good, essential, in fact, to seek understanding outside one's well-worn circles. Insular thinking breeds stagnation. But when we invite discourse, even critique, when we risk the vulnerability of new ideas… that is where evolution begins."

Ivalyn paused for a moment, letting the weight of that settle.

"And I do believe the Commonwealth and the Holy Worlds may find fertile ground together. We are both reshaping old legacies. Let us not shy from it."
 
FqMKEmo.png






The weight and significance of her host's words struck the neti. Promising innovation, exploration not biased or blinded by Sith dogma, and also powerful workforce behind such works. A'Mia felt drawn in and eager to begin working right alongside them. She wished to dive in and leave the delicate dance of diplomacy behind her... but she knew it wasn't wise to skip steps, particularly in the careful calculation of building rapport.

"My vision, yes," in regards to the alterations of some of Korriban's biome, "but the work and collaboration of others too: The Council of Vardin, my Lord Master Darth Caedes Darth Caedes , as well as information gathered in discussion with other great minds."

She nearly thought to name Taeli Raaf Taeli Raaf but thought better of that for the moment. When last she'd referenced working with the woman, Darth Strosius Darth Strosius nearly ground his own teeth into dust. No, best to hold some allegiances or scientific collaborations in reserve until she better understood the temperament of Ivalyn Yvarro Ivalyn Yvarro .

"Adaptation and evolution... Mutation to the benefit of organism or ecosystem..." the arboreal woman nodded slowly, wide eyes fixed on her host with unusual intensity, "Yes, these are the pursuits I chase and seek to pioneer new paths upon."

A'Mia leaned forward a bit, lowering her voice just slightly, as if inviting it to carry across the pleasant breeze.

"We do indeed stand to benefit from connection and collaboration- I do wonder though, what are you willing to trade and what do you seek? My utmost interest lie in the realms of knowledge and discovery, but I find that others generally seek more material gains."



 
Ivalyn smiled, pleased by the Neti's confirmation that the work on Korriban had been hers, and a direct result of the Lord Seer's own vision for the world. "Of course." The Grand Vizier inclined her head in acknowledgment, the gesture subtle but resolute. "All great work occurs through collaboration," she continued, her tone even and composed. It was a principle she held deeply: that any lasting work, any meaningful transformation, required more than solitary ambition. It demanded partnership, trust, and the faith of many to turn dreams into reality.

She listened intently as the arboreal woman spoke, her voice slow and deliberate, yet carrying an intensity that made Ivalyn's respect deepen. "I welcome such attempts, to seek adaptation and evolution to the benefit of one another," she replied, her words shaped with a measured grace. "Ecosystem or organism, these new pursuits of yours, pioneering new paths, are most commendable. Truly, I wish more individuals understood these ideals." She paused to sip her tea, the delicate porcelain cup steady in her hand. "It is true that most others generally seek only material gains; however, knowledge, and the discovery thereof, are invaluable."

Setting her cup gently upon its saucer, she allowed a brief, thoughtful pause before continuing. "I suppose it is more a question of where you wish to conduct your studies." The Dosuunian tilted her head slightly, her accent polished and deliberate. "I seek not only to benefit personally but to see my nation prosper through your work. University students, education, land grants, worker permits—these are avenues through which your research might be expanded, and in turn, utilized here."

She let the idea settle between them.

"That students within my nation might learn, and might further this research."

A beat of quiet reflection passed before she continued, her tone warming slightly.

"When most nations seek to become self-sufficient, they seldom look to work with their environments," she said, her gaze steady and sincere. "I wish to work with what we in the Commonwealth have, to create a sustainable future for all generations to come. To say I am impressed by your work on Korriban would be a gross understatement."

She set her hands lightly on her lap, her posture perfect. "I am willing to trade in land, knowledge, funding, whatever it takes to see this vision realized." Her tone sharpened slightly with the weight of duty. "Perhaps we can come to something of an agreement between the Commonwealth and the Holy Worlds, given our statuses as vassal states within the Sith Order."

Her gaze remained composed, an invitation and a challenge intertwined in the delicate dance of diplomacy.


 
FqMKEmo.png






Sipping her tea absently, more out of mimicry than biological function, the neti continued to listen intently. Her host's words were full of a tantalizing level of creative liberty and scientific opportunity. A'Mia felt that there must surely be some kind of catch, some hidden cost to such an offer.

Words were easy though, and if there were such a cost then it would reveal itself in time, so the neti chose to lean into the assumption of good faith. She had no ill intentions after all, and truly felt their respective nation-states would benefit from collaboration.

Ivalyn Yvarro Ivalyn Yvarro also invoked all the standard desires of most organisms or collectives: prosperity, assurances for future generations, and of course the most valuable thing of all- Knowledge.

It mattered not if there were buried motivations, A'Mia had a way of uprooting the truth of any given situation. And on the surface this prospect of collaboration was promising indeed. The neti wasn't one to be flattered or swayed by kind words, but acknowledgment of her talents was always welcome.

The significance and use of monetary support often alluded her understanding- having gone from literally dirt poor to having access to any amount of credits she might name, A'Mia was not the sort to dwell on such logistics. However, she was keenly aware of the value of land, data, and other such resources.

"The Holy Worlds and your Commonwealth territories represent an excellent array of biodiversity," she began slowly, "That alone provides ample opportunity for us to develop various practices that could be adapted and optimized based on the unique needs of each planet."

She set her teacup down slowly and splayed her hands out atop the table before her, an almost grounding gesture as A'Mia continued.

"I have intentions to secure Brosi, in order to expand our holdings and influence but also because of the immensity of natural resources there. My interest in alchemy also grows, specifically in the realm of flesh-crafting, such as restorative or rejuvenation methods. If I were to pass along some of my techniques which have already had promising results on Korriban, would you provide me access to whatever botanical caches you have? I would be immensely interested in exploring your seed banks as well.

As to the matter of our youth? Yes, any students of the Commonwealth could of course have access to the resources of Kor'ethyr. If you would like for our students to add to discourse in your schools, laboratories and workforce, we could certainly discuss a cultural exchange of sorts. Diversity of thought, even just changing one's environment, can all contribute to breakthrough in thought
."

A'Mia paused then, realizing she might be straying too far afield. She brought the conversation back to square one.

"Medicinal plants and flesh-crafting are my foremost scientific interests, but I find that working in one field can lead me into a whole host of new and interesting sub-fields. So you could say that I am open to the exploration of topics you might also seek to explore."



 

Users who are viewing this thread

Top Bottom