Faction The Convocation of Sojourn [Order of the Sith Lords]

[Alicia Drey]

The Convocation of Sojourn

Tags: Taeli Raaf Danger Arceneau Trayze Tesar Commodore Helix Maldor Mecetti

"Propelled by fear or hatred, even a Jedi can pass beyond the constraints of the Order's teachings and discover power of a more profound sort. But no Jedi who arrives at that place, who has risen above his or her allegiance to peace and justice, who kills in anger or out of desire, can lay real claim to the dark side of the Force. Their attempts to convince themselves that they fell to the dark side, or that the dark side compelled their actions, are nothing more than pitiful rationalizations. That is why the Sith embrace the dark from the start, focusing on the acquistion of power. We make no excuses. The actions of a Sith begin from the self and flow outward. We stalk the Force like hunters, rather than surrender like prey to its enigmatic whims."
-- Darth Plagueis.

In the days of the Old Republic, where only two Sith traversed the Galaxy in complete secrecy, the Hunter's Moon of Sojourn had played a large but enigmatic part in affairs involving the most powerful, richest and elite members across the Galaxy. Fifty years ago, when Darth Ayra had betrayed her Sith Master and plunged a knife into their back to take their place in the dichotomy that the two shared, she had woven herself into the tapestry of the Order of the Sith Lords in an attempt to court insight and knowledge on the power of the dark side. There she had traced the origins of the Rule of Two and it's subsequent links all the way to Sojourn when the name Hego Damask had come up in a manuscript Ayra had obtained from archives found on Muunilinst during her dealings with the InterGalactic Banking Clan. Here on Sojourn (as her predecessor had done in their seminal work to bring about the Grand Plan) Ayra had sought to influence the politics and affairs of the Galaxy in her day, but only for the ill fated Summit of Governments held on Alderaan in the 850s had meant that even the best of intentions pale in comparison to the machinations of the Force.

Serj Sularis was a retired investment banker from Muunilinst. When Alicia Drey had passed away the clever Muun had sought to consolidate his investment with the feeble Human and made contact with the Sun Guards that had served her. After they had buried their Master on Chandrila the banker had made arrangements with them that would see the acquisition of Drey's collection of paraphernalia. The collection had been transferred to his holdings in Harnaidan where it had been gathering dust ever since. For decades the various manuscripts, Holocrons, Lightsabers and other forms of paraphernalia had remained untouched where it was all held in secrecy until the cunning Muun found a contact in the black market to sell the items for profit.

Such business was not beyond the realm of the Muun, but if Sularis were an honest man, he would confess that he had little to no contacts in the underground, and so the collection remained closed away.

Until now.

The Fort was an imposing structure that had been constructed well. Located on a high point (which overlooked the surrounding forests) the building had survived the elements in the decades since the death of it's owner. When the Convocation of Sojourn was still in it's planning stages the host had made arrangements with Mecetti Nationalized Industries to provide security for the event.

Maldor Mecetti had been the first invitation that the host had given due to his known desire to collect Sith paraphernalia for his own collection. This played well into the hands of the person behind the creation of the auction due to the fact that it was by way of Mecetti's father that the event was set to be guarded by the personal forces which served them. Star Destroyers, Cruisers and compliments of Starfighters patrolled the system while Mecetti personnel manned the ramparts, walls and paths leading too or from the Fort. They were there to provide security for the venue but it was also by design of the host that it they had been picked specifically so that those with a cunning mind could see how influential they were to the affairs of Obulette.

The host had then made their play into the black market. Using contacts to spread word that a rather large and rare collection of Sith paraphernalia was set to be auctioned the subsequent interest had been supreme. As various individuals had reached out to be invited to attend the auction the host had requested portfolios be prepared and sent to them for review. After careful study the list of invitees had been knocked down to five.

Danger Arceneau had been the second to be invited to the event. Their business was well known throughout the Galaxy and so the various contacts, expertise and wealth that she had to bring to bear was of interest to the host. In particular the host sought to recruit them as a long term associate for their shipping rights and commerce were of great interest to them and the network that they were building in the shadows.

Taeli Raaf had been the third. Not only was their business known to the host but so too was the influence that the Sith Lord had with several individuals that were of interest to them. It was also known to the host that Raaf held a keen interest into the collection of Sith paraphernalia which dwarfed even that of Maldor Mecetti, and would be intrigued to discover that the collection had once belonged to a rival of hers called Darth Ayra, who Taeli had once Lightsaber duelled during a battle in a war that had ended with the collapse of the First Galactic Alliance.

Trayze Tesar had been the fourth. What had caught the hosts eye, when potential invitees had sent in their portfolios for selection, was their links to Darth Malum of House Marr and Darth Carnifex . The host was intrigued by what Tesar had to offer to them and so they had been picked over others that, on paper, were much more influential and powerful than the fledgling Acolyte. But they hadn't foreseen what the host had. If only Tesar were malleable to the host's schemes.

Lastly Commodore Helix had been selected due to Helix Solutions. With considerable assets, wealth and contacts for commerce they were of particular interest to the host in the same vein Arceneau had been selected for invitation as well. The host was always looking to make new associates as such individuals were only beneficial to ones aims to propagate growth across the Galaxy.

In the weeks leading up to the Convocation the Fort had gone under refurbishment and regeneration after several decades of abandonment. Gone were the pestilent wildlife that had taken root in the structure. So too had the overgrown fauna and brush that had seeped their way in through the cracks in the wall. By the time their work had finished the host had brought about a rebirth to the building and made it worthy of themselves as well as the guests that were set too attend the auction. The invitations had then been sent to the five invitees with the given stardate, star system, time and means of travel.

Each message sent to the invitees are unique to the receiver, and read as follows:

Maldor Mecetti ,

"Lord Mecetti of Obulette. Your career has been a fascinating thing to follow over these recent years. From the political den of the Galactic Alliance into the machinations of the Imperial Remnants who formed the Empire of the Lost. In my research I have discovered a great many things about you. The esteemed Harnaidan banker Serj Sularis has resurfaced in the Sojourn system, on the Hunter's Moon of the same name. In his possession is a vast collection of paraphernalia that I have enclosed with this message. Arrangements have already been made with your Father in which some of his forces from Obulette will be present to provide security to the venue. Come to me on Sojourn so that we may finally meet and here you will find something that you have been looking for."

Danger Arceneau ,

"Ms. Arceneau. Thank you for your portfolio. Your work across the Galaxy has been well known to me for a long time, and it has always been my intention for the two of us to become associates. For it to have taken this long for the two of us to cross paths is a tragedy in of itself, but an error that I intend to correct on Sojourn. Your commerce, businesses and contacts are of interest, as well as importance, to me and my organisation. We invite you to the Sojourn system where the the Harnaidan banker Serj Sularis is finally unveiling his collection of paraphernalia that are clearly of interest to you given your request for an invitation. I would be more than happy to accept it. I am looking forward to meeting you once again."

Taeli Raaf ,

"Darth Arcanix. My name is Serj Sularis. I am a retired investment banker from Harnaidan, Muunilinst. Some decades ago I came into the possession of a vast collection of items ranging from unique, one of it's kind technologies to Sith Holocrons, manuscripts, books and others that will be of a great interest to you. It came to my attention many years ago that you were once the enemy of the woman who collected these rare items. When Darth Ayra was laid to rest on Chandrila her collection came into my hands, where I have kept it in secret. I am now set to auction off these items, and so your request for an invitation has been accepted. I am looking forward to meeting with you."

Commodore Helix ,

"Commodore Helix of Helix Solutions. I was most surprised but gratified by your request to attend my Convocation on Sojourn. Therefore, after review of your portfolio, I have decided to accept your request and enclosed you will find instructions to attend my auction. It is my intention to use the venue to meet and discuss several opportunities that will be of interest to yourself and your organisation. I am looking forward to meeting you on the Hunter's Moon."

A hall found inside the Fort, where the Convocation of Sojourn was held in 902 ABY​

When each invitee arrived above Sojourn they were escorted (or taken) to the moon's surface where they were taken through the Fort. When they finished their arrival they would find themselves in a large hall. There they would find the items that had been put up for auction. The largest of the displays were for the Sochi Ru - the personal starship of the late Knight of the Republic Ella Nova, who fell to the hands of the One Sith in the 840s. On either side of the ship were the Creatura Reactor and a Praesidium-class shield generator.

In smaller displays laid the collection of Sith paraphernalia that was undoubtedly the main cause of interest for Sularis' guests. The Holocron of Heresies laid in the centre of the collection and was considered to be the most expensive item set to be sold. Around it was the Holocron of Darth Revan, and Freedon Nadd's Short Saber. Although less interesting was a Lightsaber of Sith origin which finished this part of the collection.

Resting before the display cabinet of the Sochi Ru hung the armour of the late Jedi Knight, as well as her Lightsaber.

To finish the display, opposite from where the Sith artefacts rested, were the other items of interest. The Pendant of Aay'han which was made of the rare metal Beskar. Cortosis crates which were highly resistant to energy weapons, and of course, Lightsabers. The Jal-Shey Teachings rested in a cabinet beside the Book of Rhand. Last, but not least, were the schematics for the Acavus-class Bulk Cruiser that had previously seen service transporting foodstuffs from Chandrila in the 840s.

As the invitees were led into the hallway and left there by the guards- where they could browse, and gaze upon Darth Ayra's collection- right in the centre of it all hung the corpse of a Muun.

So marked the beginning of the Convocation of Sojourn!

 

[Trayze Tesar]

CURRENT MISSION - BUYOUT
Immediate Goals -
1: Attain the artifacts of import!
1.1: The Book of Rhand
1.2: The Holocron of Darth Revan
1.3: The Holocron of Heresies
1.4: The Jal-Shay Teachings
1.5: Ella Nova's Lightsaber

BLUFOR - ALLIES UNKNOWN

OPFOR - ENEMY UNKNOWN

TARGETING ACTION(S) - OPEN FOR INTERACTION || Alicia Drey as herself.

---

A figure in the finery of the Sith-Imperial Banking Clan, or as much finery as a Captain of a Frigate can muster, would be escorted by two MagnaGuards, their footsteps sounding through the idyllic scene. The escort was unnecessary, even before the nervous housekeepers implored him to "leave the weapons at the door". The Kiffar would later enter the display area alone, his eyes blinking with contact lenses that allowed him a more "normal" iris color than the overtly Sith yellow-red that was synonymous with the Dark Side.

That they also contained recording devices for Trayze to later pour over to find out everything he could about how the items he sought out - and if they would slip through his figures, who last owned them and where they would go, was a happy coincidence.

Trayze Tesar, the workingman's Sith, was by all accounts an imbecile - neglecting the study of the Dark Side for a more secular career as a frigate captain and Detective Inspector. His sheer dumb luck allowed him to survive a confrontation with the Grand Mistress of the Jedi Order, his idiocy cost him several months in physical rehabilitation, and his stubborn pride rejected the Battlefield Knighthood. For Trayze Tesar was an imbecile, but he learned from his mistakes, and he had dumb luck. How else could he have landed an invitation to an exclusive auction, and through conversations with his cousin, the Lord of the Tsis'Kaar, Darth Malum of House Marr , was bequeathed a sum of untraceable credits to "purchase every last grimoire he could find". Those weren't Malum's words, but the sentiment he shared and revelled in, to bring discipline to the power that grew since the Yavin IV campaign.

Taking advantage of being one of the first persons here, he silently regarded the holocrons, though looked upon the lightsaber with curiosity. In addition to largely self-inflicted injuries, the lightsaber the Academy had "loaned" him was utterly self-destructed, and he required a new one: so when he peered into the lightsaber's contents, he recognized something from his usual late nights of research.

Adegan Crystal.

The average Sith would have relished in the bleeding and corrupting of a Jedi's weapon for their own, but the Kiffar knew that this weapon didn't belong to just any Jedi... someone important wielded this. Stranger still, he felt drawn to the weapon, when he knew that the lightsabers fashioned from this rare crystal would only be bonded to their chosen wielder. Trayze wasn't a Jedi, and he certainly had never seen this weapon before in his life, so why...?

Standing alone, he drank in the tantalizing possibility emanating from each of the objects on display, patiently waiting for his host to escort him to the main event.

 

[Maldor Mecetti]

​

"It's beautiful, isn't it?"

Maldor asked the question as he stood beside Trayze Tesar in front of the holocron display case. He was not aware that the man was more interested in the light-saber.

"Not the holocrons themselves, though they do have an attractive aesthetic. But the possibilities they represent. Untold eons of knowledge, condensed into a data-storage medium you can hold in the palm of your hand.

Not just information, either. Often, the inner essence of a Sith is somehow imprinted within the matrix. Able to convey lessons and wisdom that a mere library could never hope to show you. It is more than information. It is a tutor, an instructor. Sometimes, even a reservoir of the Force itself, imbued into a fusion of technology and otherworldly power."

He regarded the stranger.

"Which of the artifacts intrigues you the most?"

This was hardly the first auction Maldor had attended, though he expected it would go better than the last. That auction, held in the depths of Wild Space, had been attacked by pirates.

This time, House Mecetti was providing security.

This time, everyone here would get what they deserved.

---

Trayze Tesar Alicia Drey

 

[Commodore Helix]

Objective: Enjoy the evening and pick up some antiques
Tags: Open​

Helix had first heard about the auction through... questionable channels. Sith artifacts for sale, among other interesting sundries. He had little practical use for such things himself beyond simple historical value, nor any interest in general in the religion of his clients. However, they could potentially be useful bargaining chips for certain future ventures he had planned. In truth, it was as much an excuse to while away the evening. He'd been working too hard lately. While his capacity for overwork was several orders of magnitude greater than that of his organic compatriots, even he needed a hobby. Part of the curse of full, independent sapience was boredom. Antiqueing was as good a hobby as any.

He reached out to the shadowy individuals behind the affair, and was halfway-surprised to learn he had been chosen to attend. What was more, the anonymous auctioneers had indicated an interest in doing business. What had been a transient way to occupy an evening and waste some of his resources became an opportunity to send yet another tendril of influence out into the galaxy, and ideally make some money in the process. So much for a vacation.

The problem was, he didn't know who was running this show, or what they wanted. This could all be a giant waste of his time, time better spent securing serious resources for his war machine. He had little patience for the cloak-and-dagger theatrics, but they were sadly a part of doing business. Only the wealthy could generally afford to engage his services on a large scale, and the wealthy tended to have a flair for the dramatic. That didn't mean he had to like it... or trust it. He had been assured things wouldn't get ugly, but all the same, he'd taken precautions. He only hoped things were truly as they appeared.

He had received coordinates, and gone there as directed, taking a single Rusalka-Class frigate. He thought it best to not make his hosts too twitchy by arriving in anything more ostentatious or warlike. The small utility vessel would do. He'd been escorted below, and at last found himself in a hallway with four others. He studied them in turn.

He didn't recognize most, but Danger Arceneau registered in his memory, from Castor Crane's meeting a short while ago. It seemed he wasn't the only one making friends all over. Taeli Raaf too, he recognized, though under considerably less civil circumstances during the Tund debacle. Still, she'd paid off his fee, and then some, so no harm done and no hard feelings in his mind. That did complicate matters, though. He'd been intending to turn at least some of these artifacts over to his employer if he could secure them. He wondered at what the relation between the two was now, and if Strosius had truly accepted her bargain beyond agreeing to save face. The answer to that question had the potential to greatly complicate the night.

He didn't know if his employer truly had any use for these things, but Helix had time and money in great supply, and could freely expend both. If not, a holocron would make a fine paperweight for his office aboard the Fearful Symmetry, and more importantly, deprive any rivals present of the knowledge they contained.

He turned his attention then to the items, folding his hands behind his back and giving them his full, calculating attention. The Book of Rhand caught his eye almost immediately. Being a droid, he was as non-force-sensitive as it was physically possible to be, coupled with a general ignorance of Force lore and history, but something about it fascinated him. He approached closer, studying the thing through the display. He rather liked books, and this one was of a very unique appearance and nature. He resolved he was taking this, at least, back to the ship with him, and money was no object.

 

[Trayze Tesar]

CURRENT MISSION - BUYOUT
Immediate Goals -
1: Attain the artifacts of import!
1.1: The Book of Rhand
1.2: The Holocron of Darth Revan
1.3: The Holocron of Heresies
1.4: The Jal-Shay Teachings
1.5: Ella Nova's Lightsaber
2: Maintain a low profile

BLUFOR - ALLIES UNKNOWN

OPFOR - ENEMY UNKNOWN

TARGETING ACTION(S) - OPEN FOR INTERACTION || Maldor Mecetti || Commodore Helix || Alicia Drey as herself.

---

This auction was exclusive, and thus, the any knowledge of exact persons or potential patrons were left to speculation. This did not mean however that Trayze was unaware of those who had both the interest and the means to purchase said wares, and that countermeasures weren't taken.

Maldor Mecetti, the disgraced and vagabond heir of Mecetti Natl. Holdings, was an interesting if trite case - a silver-spoon-fed bourgeoise who figured that a loaner lightsaber and some midichlorians made him the unspoken master of the dark side within the backwater polity aptly known as "the Empire of the Lost". His name was on the shortlist of non-Sith interested parties, a list compiled in case this "auction" was a trap.

And so, in the spirit of distrust of his fellow Force practitioner, and awaiting the arrival of another who he sensed possesses far more power and acumen than himself and Maldor combined, he remained stubbornly silent. Eyes lazily darting, and his head on a subtle swivel as the remainder of the auctioneers would gradually funnel in. The sound of a droid was expected, both from Trayze's career in the SIBC, and the prospect of droid servitors within the estate - what he did not expect however was Commodore Helix .

He had known of the droid through secondhand information, mostly from his cousin's peer, Darth Strosius . The droid mercenary had assisted the Sith in several campaigns in the Rim - had the droid come of his own behest, to secure treasures to bribe or coerce future prospects? Or was he acting on the behalf of another?

Maldor would find the Kiffar's answer, not spoken to him, but to the droid, in an almost teasing manner. "Have yer data receptors overloaded?" Trayze mused to the droid, before the rogue Commodore would touch a book that exuded power. Power he would use far more than some droid, or worse still, whoever it may fall to. "Or do you prefer th' tactile sensation o' fingers on paper?"

 

[Danger Arceneau]

Sojourn - The Fort
Feel Free to Approach
| Dress x & x | x | x | x | x | x |
​

The Rubenesque figure moved with a deliberate, purposeful stride, clearly accustomed to observing and processing her surroundings with care. In a gathering like this, understanding the room was essential for interacting gracefully with both the host and esteemed guests.

Though not attuned to the mysteries of the Force, Danger knew that some of her acquaintances might find interest in the artifacts displayed. Taking precautions, she dressed in black as a mark of mourning for her late husband, Alric Kuhn. Her singlet dress, accentuated by an Akure custom-made corset, not only accentuated her curves but also offered protection against both Force and standard weaponry, a subtle but necessary safeguard.

The flash of bright corseca red soles of her S.I.N. haute couture heels accentuated her steps, adding to the allure of her slow, meandering walk. Despite being a widow and a matron, her Hapan ancestry ensured that Danger still commanded attention with her striking presence.

Receiving an intriguing invitation to the unveiling of Serj Sularis's collection on Sojurn, Danger couldn't resist the opportunity to make connections, particularly with Alicia Drey. As she paused in the hallway, surrounded by various auction items, her attention was drawn to the hanging corpse of a Munn.

Removing her sunglasses, Danger's emerald eyes flickered with curiosity as she studied the grisly sight before her. "Well... Reckon, that's certainly one way to make a statement," she remarked, her voice low and throaty as she recognized the features of the deceased Munn.

It was then that she realized that if the supposed owner of the collection, Serj Sularis, was among the deceased. If he was hanging dead, then who was hosting this event?

Trayze Tesar | Alicia Drey | Commodore Helix | Taeli Raaf | Maldor Mecetti​

 

[Taeli Raaf]

Sojourn

While she did not require any new artifacts or treasures, the news brought to her by one of her agents had intrigued her enough to reach out and a brief portfolio to this Muun. His response, revealing his collection had been acquired by an old acquaintance of the Sith Lady had only heightened her curiosity.

She had met Ayra briefly during the invasion of Kashyyyk by the One Sith many decades past, both leading Sith forces on a beach assault against the Republic and its defenders. Later, once she had begun her work within the Republic and its successor state the first Galactic Alliance, they had crossed paths a few more times. If memory still served her well, they had duelled during the liberation of Coruscant and Ayra had revealed an orbalisk infestation. It had been one reason why she had sought out Taeli in the first place; to find a holocron of Freedon Nadd that the erstwhile Jedi Master had acquired and learn how to remove the parasites from her body. The exchange had not gone well, and it had been the last she had seen of the woman.

Decades later, with a request to attend the auction on Sojourn in hand, the name had reappeared out of obscurity and the location of the auction itself had drawn her attention. It did not escape the Sith who had once controlled the moon, centuries ago, considering her forays into history in her pursuit of knowledge.

She had arrived quietly in a Lumiya-class Infiltrator, garbed in a red dress with her Sith cloak draped over her shoulders, she had been led into the hall where the auction was to take place and she could see the other attendees... along with the treasures and unfortunate decor choice. Most of the other attendees seemed to pay no mind of the corpse of their erstwhile host, gathered around the books and holocron as they were. She didn't recognize any of them besides the tactical droid she had recently encountered on Tund working with Alisteri. Interesting.

But the person she was most interested in seeing out of the attendees, at present, was also regarding the hanging decoration of the Muun and she would join her old associate.

"And not a very subtle one at that," she agreed quietly, giving Danger a small smile in greeting. "It's been far too long Danger. My deepest condolences on your loss and your family's as well. Alric and I may not have interacted much, but he taught me an important lesson long ago and the galaxy is worst off for his death."

Alicia Drey Danger Arceneau Trayze Tesar Maldor Mecetti Commodore Helix

 

[Commodore Helix]

Objective: Enjoy the evening and pick up some antiques
Tags: Trayze Tesar /Open​

"My receptors are quite functional. I simply have an appreciation for history, and antiques in general. It comes from being one myself." Came the response. Helix didn't take his three-eyed stare off the book for a while, then finally turned to face the man speaking to him.

Now that he got a closer look, the Kiffar was vaguely familiar. Seen at some Sith gathering he had been hauled off to, perhaps. That had been happening a lot, lately. The fellow seemed to know him, though. "As it happens, I do prefer a paper volume to holobooks. More engaging, more personal. The same reason I lead my forces in person. Holograms are well and good, but there's nothing like the real thing, in books or in war."

He paused for a moment, studying the stranger. The man was brusque and direct. Not a rich posh type then, like most here. Helix could appreciate the directness. He was expecting to spend half the night verbally dueling with a number of perfect strangers. "You seem to know me, stranger, but I can't say I know you. Have we met?"

 

[Alicia Drey]

Tags: Commodore Helix Taeli Raaf Danger Arceneau Trayze Tesar Maldor Mecetti

The wail of a Wookiee warrior crushed by the power of the dark side. A unadulterated blood curdling scream which echoed throughout the walls of Coruscant as a battle was waged over head. The suffering that had followed...

Alicia wore a red tunic that accentuated her petite frame. A small woman at 5''6 she was set to be dominated in height by some of her guests as they now wondered the halls of the newly rejuvenated Fort on Sojourn. As the body of Serj Sularis hung there while they all conversed and greeted one another, Alicia watched quietly from the balcony railing which overlooked the hallway where the assortment of technologies and paraphernalia stood on display.

In her hand Alicia claimed her commlink and opened up it's text messaging service. She wrote to Maldor Mecetti : "Good to see you again. Among the items on display I would have you secure the Creatura Reactor that is on sale. Should you fail then our friends on Lianna will find out about what you did on Stygeon Prime."

Blackmail. Coercion. Manipulation. These were the tools of the trade, and Alicia was equipped with all of them. The corruption of Mecetti Nationalized Industries continued to take shape, and it's favoured son was well within her grasp. Over time she had presented him with obstacles that were hidden tests designed to test his candidacy for apprenticeship. Maldor had the wealth. He had man power, and he certainly showed an air of cunning if his relationship with Nimian Totan was anything to go by. But was he worthy of becoming her apprentice? Did he have the potential to surpass her in such a dichotomy? Was he the apparent heir to continue the work after her inevitable death, or would he walk a path of destruction that would undo it? Could he become a true believer in the ideology?

It all remained to be seen.

Deactivating the commlink and pocketing it Alicia brought her hand along the railing to smooth her palm along the oak as she climbed down the stairs. Her voice carried over the hallway and with it severed the conversations that were taking place. This was her convocation, and they would listen to what she had to say.

"Welcome to Sojourn," Alicia begun as she walked down the stairs towards them. As she walked it would occur to Taeli Raaf that this was not the same woman she had known in the One Sith. "I will take this moment to welcome an old comrade back from a seminal life from the waning days of the Old Republic. Among the items on offer today are the trappings of an old hero from a war that we both shared in. Yet here we are, after all this time, survivors despite our contributions too the galactic stage."

Alicia averted her gaze from Raaf to talk to the other guests. A hand gestured upwards to Serj's corpse as she finished climbing down the stairs and into the landing. "Our host was once the servant of a Sith Lord called Darth Ayra. For over a decade Ayra lived in this place, and here she collected the items that are set to be auctioned off today. Sularis, a willy Muun, sought opportunity when Ayra succumbed to disease, and there this collection gathered dust until now. The morale of this story is a reminder of the cost of betrayal. Everything ends."

As Alicia continued to walk among the five she wondered how Taeli would take all of this. It had been on Coruscant that the traitorous Jedi turned Sith learned that Alicia Drey and Darth Ayra were the same person. Yet here walked a stranger who, at least in their words, confirmed her death (no doubt at the hand of the Orbalisk infection) while wearing the same name among the collection of rare technology and paraphernalia that had belonged to her old rival. What was going on? Was this small blonde not Darth Ayra?

"Centuries ago, on this very moon, affairs concerning a multitude of governments, star systems, organisations and individuals were discussed, planned, and in some cases, executed. These affairs were known to participants at the time as the Gathering. I confess to the five of you that this convocation- planned by yours truly- with the aide of our late Sularis- was planned and put into motion to bring you unique five together for the very same purposes."

Alicia gestured a hand next to the items on display. "These items are yours to bid on and once a fee has been agreed it will be honoured. But I would have you five not leave this house with something rare to add to your portfolios, but to enter a conspiracy with me to begin affecting events on a galactic scale."

"In our midst we have the heir to Obulette and it's Mecetti Nationalized Industries whom currently walks in exile in the Empire of the Lost. With them we have the Queen of Commerce herself- the head of a conglomerate known across the Galaxy as the Arceneau Trade Company. Speaking of commerce we have a new titan in the form of Helix Solutions, whose forays in the Outer Rim Territories are becoming legendary. Our next guest is the head of Aurora Industries, and a veteran of countless wars, whose technology and studies are infamous across the black circles of the Sith, and curiously, our final guest is a man of low station, but whose potential and connections to the Tsis'Kaar are well known to me as they are interesting."

Alicia stopped in the shadow of Serj Sularis' corpse. Her gaze turned to each guest as she introduced and addressed them. "Let this convocation be the beginning of new avenues of commerce. To the accumulation of not only rare technology, or paraphernalia, but too the abundant wealth that we could foster and create together. For the sharing of intelligence, stories or news that could prove to be advantageous at the turn of this new century, at a time where the Galactic Alliance is set to enter a new conflict with the return of Darth Solipsis and the Imperial Remnants which created his new Empire."

"For five days and nights we will break bread together, converse in the possibilities of what an organisation like ours could accomplish together, and celebrate your newest acquisitions. As events of the Galaxy were once shaped here so too can we enter the tapestry woven by our predecessors and accumulate new power to elevate all of us into a greater position than the one we shared in common before this day on Sojourn."

 

[Maldor Mecetti]

​

Trayze seemed to prefer dialogue with a droid- if only to speak to the machine somewhat rudely- and Maldor made note of the snub.

It either meant the man had animosity for him, or he was socially inept. Both possibilities were useful data.

Just then, he received a text message on his comm unit, and as he checked it, his blood went cold.

Once more, a commanding instruction from an unknown party. Once more, a demand to do its bidding, or suffer consequences.

He was getting rather tired of being a puppet on a string. But he didn't have a viable alternative, at the moment. Still, he vowed to find a way out of this particular web. He was almost certain it was someone at the NISB, working towards their own ends. But being almost certain wasn't enough to stake his life on.

He'd have to wait until their plant at the agency bore some fruitful intelligence.

Before he could clear the dour expression from his face, the devil herself began to speak to the assembled crowd. Well... 'crowd' might be a strong word for the exclusive gathering.

He only half-listened at first. His mind was turned to the matter of the Creatura Reactor he'd been commanded to acquire. Some sort of lightsaber crystal synthesis or modification machine, he thought. Hardly the most interesting thing here, at least to his mind. Any lightsaber was already a wonder-weapon. Refining their crystals further felt like a play in the 99th percentile range. Hardly the decisive matter in a conflict.

But then... there were mysteries of the Force that he was not privy to. The Battalion had made that quite clear, in their encounter.

His mind returned to the speech being given when he realized it was more than just the introduction of the auction. No... she was proposing some sort of alliance among the participants, introducing them in turn.

So... the Sith artifacts were just bait for the hook.

He glanced to the right and left. He was both in a net, and on a hook. That was not his preferred place to be.

Had House Mecetti been asked to provide security here merely to prevent him from bolting?

Someone was being clever. That didn't make him feel any better.

---

Commodore Helix Taeli Raaf Danger Arceneau Trayze Tesar Maldor Mecetti Alicia Drey

 

[Trayze Tesar]

CURRENT MISSION - BUYOUT
Immediate Goals -
1: PRIORITY ONE - Investigate Alicia Drey 's network of intel... how much does she know?
2: Maintain a low profile MISSION FAILED
2: Attain the artifacts of import!
2.1: The Book of Rhand
2.2: The Holocron of Darth Revan
2.3: The Holocron of Heresies
2.4: The Jal-Shay Teachings
2.5: Ella Nova's Lightsaber

BLUFOR - ALLIES UNKNOWN

OPFOR - ENEMY UNKNOWN

TARGETING ACTION(S) - OPEN FOR INTERACTION || Maldor Mecetti || Commodore Helix || Alicia Drey as herself.

---

Now, with the six in session, Trayze thought he could relax for a brief moment - forgetting the adage of his previous profession, "only the dead know rest".

With this grim thought in mind, the hostess directed the attention to the corpse he already knew through the proxy of an earpiece. He didn't make note of it because the host was more important than the murder suspect, and besides, there were too many people to notice him absconding with a body - even if it was in ex judicio. What the detective found disturbing wasn't corpses, or sentimental droids, or conniving politicians, it was information - especially given the right context.

The pale haired woman announced each of them, cryptically in her own way, some to flatter, some to intimidate - but Trayze fell victim to something that should have been refreshingly straightforward. She did not address him as a liason on behalf of the Golden Prince, the Sith-Imperial Banking Clan, nor even the Tsis'kaar. Well, she did, but Trayze's ears picked up the specific interest, with seldom a hint of flattery.

This wasn't good, and Trayze felt the noose tighten. From what Trayze could recall, the pale haired woman was the newly minted Director of the "Empire of the Lost's" intelligence bureau! So why was Maldor Mecetti shifting as much as he was? Why was she so calm around Taeli Raaf ? Force sensitivity could excuse or compliment talent, Trayze himself was proof of this, but it didn't imitate knowledge or such intimacy to call for a meeting such as this.

On the subject of a potential hanging, the Kiffar looked up at the corpse. Five days of retirement, plenty of time to wriggle out of this mess, or further in. Time to check Zheko's Gun and hope to Bogan it's loaded.

"Excuse me." He began, the careful placement of the "bumpkin drawl" as his cousin so delightfully termed it. "Ah, sorry, couple questions Miss...? Well Ah can't quite miss a pretty face like yers, though it might help with a name. Seein' as yer acquainted with us, but left the rest of us quite flat-footed!" Of course, he had no reason to suspect that this was the real Alicia Drey, Director of the NISB - it was just as likely that a Force trained doppelganger could be present, hence the nervousness of Maldor. However, Trayze noticed things, and had a feeling in his gut - not the Force, not his physical intestines, his intuition - and he paid attention to what that pointed out. "Furthermore..." he gestured to the now hung Muun. "Is 'e on the biddin' list?"

It was a bold move, to draw attention to it, but he wasn't the first - the two women were. It was a tenuous alibi, but information, even if gathered off a corpse, would be better than nothing.

 

[Commodore Helix]

Objective: Enjoy the evening and pick up some antiques/learn about the auction host.
Tags: Trayze Tesar / Alicia Drey​

Helix turned his head with a soft clicking of actuators as his conversation with the man was interrupted by the arrival of their host. He listened, not saying a word. So, it was as he'd suspected, then. This was more than just a chance to sell off some pretty baubles. It was a grasp at allies by their host.

He'd seen her before, courting the Corporate Sector as he had. He wasn't familiar with her any more than that, but then, he hardly needed to be. He knew the type, and had heard this same speech (or one very much like it) countless times over the long years of his artificial life. It was a sales pitch, however elaborate. She'd done her research about him, apparently. It was somewhat flattering to know that news of his atrocities in the Rim had gotten out. There was no such thing as bad publicity, after all, and his invitation here proved it.

He was intrigued by the suggestion of something larger at play, if only professionally. His loyalty, such as it was, didn't come cheap, nor did he hand it away at the expense of his other allies. He'd hear her out, at the very least. He could hardly afford to turn down business. Not if he intended to accomplish his goals.

Helix doubted, though, that what was being suggested was ultimately in his best interests. These things seldom were. Profitable, certainly. Wise, perhaps not. He turned his gaze to the hanging corpse of a Muun, paying it any mind for the first time. He had seen (and created) so many corpses over his existence that he'd at first not noticed it. It had blended in like part of the furniture.

It sent a clear message. The woman wasn't afraid to kill anyone who posed a problem. That was hardly a message one wanted to send to prospective business partners to lure them in. Brash, at best. That was the way of things, however. Especially with Sith, which he was now 97.612% sure his host was. It would explain the gruesome display, and the host of valuable Sith-related items for sale. What confused him was the secrecy. He was already a regular contractor for the Sith Order, and an open one. Hiring him would be as simple as a holoprojection.

The only conclusion he could come to was that this was a different strain of Sith, perhaps. He was vaguely familiar with those of the Dark Empire, who his frequent employers often denounced as pretenders. She had mentioned them offhand, though he noticed no allegiance to them was directly claimed. He knew there to be numerous such organizations, all claiming to be the "true" Sith. They all tended to be rich, though, and that was enough for him.

He felt his host was the sort to have no real allegiances but to herself. That tended to be true of most of those touched by the Dark Side. He couldn't interact with those energies himself, but he had working audio and photoreceptors, as well as an intact memory. It was true of most (though not all) he had met. He'd be happy to be proven wrong.

If his assessment was right, it was something he could understand, as it was also how he preferred to operate. Helix liked to be his own droid. He'd worked hard and suffered plenty for that privilege. The sweetest of all treats for a mechanical being: autonomy. He could go where he liked, do what he liked, and called none master. He would not give that up for anything, or anyone.

Too early to judge, however. There was always the chance, however unlikely, that this could be the start of a respectful and mutually-profitable association. He'd just have to keep an eye out for the ulterior motives that long experience had told him were very likely to materialize soon enough. He didn't get as old and powerful as he had by being a fool, or by extending trust to anyone, so he remained guardedly optimistic.

 

[Danger Arceneau]

Sojourn - The Fort
Feel Free to Approach
| Dress x & x x | x | x | x | x | x | ​

"And not a very subtle one at that," she agreed quietly, giving Danger a small smile in greeting. "It's been far too long Danger. My deepest condolences on your loss and your family's as well. Alric and I may not have interacted much, but he taught me an important lesson long ago and the galaxy is worst off for his death."

"Well, I'll be, Taeli, it has been far too long," Danger exclaimed with genuine surprise, turning to meet the welcoming gaze of Taeli Raaf with a broad smile. Her soft drawl flowed like rich Kashyyyk honey, expressing her delight at the unexpected reunion with the woman in charge of Aurora Industries. Their past collaborations had brought remarkable success, particularly with Miz. Raaf's Otherspace engines, which had opened up new trade routes and mining opportunities for Otherspace under Arceneau Trade's auspices. Without such a contract, they would have lagged behind in the resource exploitation that now enriched both Arceneau Trade and Mara Tibx.

"Thank you for your condolences; thankfully, the children are doin' better," Danger added, her smile softening. Though the ache of loss remained, Miz. Raaf's kind words offered some comfort. She hoped that wherever Alric was, he was finding the peace and fulfillment he sought in his new life.

"Well... who do you reckon our host will be?" Before Danger could muse further with Taeli Raaf Taeli Raaf regarding who dispatched the Munn and the hand that had executed it, Alicia Drey made her entrance.

"Ah... Well now, aint' that certainly a twist," She murmured quietly, taking the time to listen to Miz Drey's explanation regarding the convocation, what happened to those who betrayed her truth - rightly dealt, Danger held to that belief firmly and saw no wrong in giving an eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth - and just what came next.

As the conversation unfolded, Danger sensed the stirring of significant changes on the horizon. Decades of Arceneau Trade's delicate neutrality were being tested in this new era of shifting governments and leaderships. It was clear to Danger that unless they took decisive action, there were those who might overlook Arceneau Trade's enduring influence. She saw this as an opportunity to strengthen their position and reinforce their image as a formidable power in the galaxy.

Turning towards Taeli, the Queen of Trade gave the brunette an inquisitive quirk of her brow. "Well...that's one way to start a party with a kick."

While her words conveyed wry banter, the expression she levied sent another. The unexpected turn of events had sparked a flurry of thoughts and speculations in her mind, and she was eager to hear her perspective on the matter. However, odds were, if the Munn suffered such a fate, then all of the guests were being held to a level of scrutiny. Revealings one's cards off the bat did no one any favors.

But this certainly was enough to make Danger wonder.

Trayze Tesar | Alicia Drey | Commodore Helix | Taeli Raaf | Maldor Mecetti​

 

[Taeli Raaf]

Sojourn

There was genuine warmth as Danger accepted her welcome and condolences gracefully as always. She appreciated the woman immensely, and in some ways, she had been a mentor of Taeli's when it came to matters of business. Aurora Industries, and thus Taeli's power base in the galaxy, would not have grown as it had without the support of the Trade Queen and she knew that. Danger had seen potential and ambition, possibly similar to her own, and nurtured it in a mutually beneficial arrangement.

Her smile equally soft, if not broad, she was about to muse about the identity of their hidden host, as it most certainly was not the Muun hanging as a grotesque chandelier, when the woman appeared. She recognized the face, though it had been many decades since the Lady of Secrets had seen Elle Nova. The last she had known; she had been captured by Kaine and imprisoned in the Black Pyramid he once held on Coruscant, one of many such Jedi of the Republic to be taken. No records had remained when Kaine detonated his stronghold as the One Sith collapsed... but outwardly it seemed the young Jedi had escaped.

Outwardly that is.

Her opening words, directed completely at her, spoke a different story. One could safely say, if they didn't know any of the personal history, that the woman claiming the rights of hostess as she descended from above, was referring to the days of the Jedi. However... while her ears took in the greetings the woman offered to the assembled players, her eyes wandered over to where the two men and the droid were gathered by the books and holocron on offer.

Their host claimed Ayra had died, and Taeli knew the orbalisks that had infested her body had been killing her rapidly. She had even accelerated that process when she struck Ayra with lightning created through the Force. Amethyst eyes though looked at, according to the offered manifest for the auction, the Holocron of Heresies. Darth Andeddu's hoard of knowledge... including his most long-lasting achievement for the dark side.

The invitation at cooperation and conspiracy from this convocation... there were two scenarios that could fit the pieces of the puzzle present. Her eyes would move from the holocron back to their host as she stood in front of the Muun, locking with the blonde's for a moment. There would be time for catching up, one way or the other it would seem. This woman, carrying the name of Alicia Drey, intrigued her.

If the choice had existed, she wouldn't be leaving early even if she wanted to. The whole situation was arousing her curiosity and interest.

To Danger, she replied quietly but with a small smirk, "You know the saying: any party worth having is a dull affair if there aren't any deaths." She could tell the redhead was just as interested as she was. Danger was no fool when it came to shifting factions in the galaxy, and ATC had not maintained its preeminent position by not bending within their neutrality to the breeze of conflict. And even then, just as Danger, she would play her cards and thoughts close to the chest.

A Sith should always be cautiously paranoid, and she had to wonder what the motivations might be in bringing this group together first besides introductions.

Alicia Drey Danger Arceneau Commodore Helix Trayze Tesar Maldor Mecetti

 

[Alicia Drey]

​

Tag: Taeli Raaf Danger Arceneau Trayze Tesar Commodore Helix Maldor Mecetti

Alicia met Trayze Tesar's words when he inquired about purchasing the corpse of Serj Sularis. Pouting her lips in thought Alicia replied: "I'll sell him to you for a hundred thousand dataries. While the galactic credit standard is, of course, desirable I would part with him for a thousand Calamari Flan and a Nova Crystal also."

Dataries- otherwise known as the Galactic Credit Standard, or credits- were the common mans currency across the Galaxy. Alicia's personal net worth in dataries was estimated in the millions. Not bad for someone who had been retired for over fifty years. But recent acquisitions on the saline ocean world of Ruisto meant that Alicia was set to do business with the Mon Calamari and so the Calamari Flan was a new desirable form of currency to add to her portfolio. As for the Nova Crystal Alicia wanted to see just how resourceful this lowly Sith was. Her sources indicated that Trayze Tesar held ties to the Tsis'Kaar but how he was connected to Darth Malum of House Marr was something that would warrant a closer investigation.

Just how deep did Tesar's pockets run?

"While our new friend makes up his mind shall we begin our first round of bidding? I noticed the Holocron of Heresies caught your eye, Darth Arcanix. I thought that it would."

Alicia made her way across the hallway to stand beside the case that held the Holocron of Heresies. Among the collected items set to be auctioned off this particular piece served as the centre of the collection of Sith paraphernalia on display for the convocation. Resting to the left was the Holocron of Darth Revan, and to the right Freedon Nadd's Shortsaber. Beside the Shortsaber was also another Lightsaber that was for sale. As she took her place Alicia gestured to her servants to close the windows and curtains that lined the halls.

With the hallway temporarily held in complete darkness (save for the red neon lights that danced and swirled around the Holocrons on display) Alicia lifted her gaze up and shouted: "SILENCE!"

​

Eerie white rays of light shone from a projector hanging from the ceiling. Basked in it's glow Alicia caught herself and her five guests in the Cone of Silence: a rare new piece of technology (of her design) that would ensure complete and utter secrecy for the convocation. For the occupants nothing seemed to change but for the servants and Mecetti guards which lined the Fort an indomitable wall of sheer utter silence prevented all audio or sound from leaving the hallway.

"The Holocron of Heresies was constructed by an ancient Dark Lord of the Sith called Darth Andeddu," Alicia explained to everyone. "It is estimated that it was built several thousand years before the rise of Palpatine's Galactic Empire. Date of it's original discovery has been lost in the wake of the Four-Hundred Year Darkness, but my research suggests that this item was long thought to be destroyed, or lost well before the Gulag Plague ravaged the Galaxy."

"It's recent history is well known to me, however. Over sixty years ago it was rediscovered and was at the centre of a duel that was fought over it. On one side were two Sith Masters known to me as Darth's Vitium and Carach. They were confronted by Jedi Masters Connor Harrison and Corvus Raaf." Alicia averted her gaze from the Holocron to Taeli. "It is not known to me what happened to Vitium, Carach, Harrison or Corvus Raaf. Seeing as you are a relative of Master Raaf perhaps you can fill in the gaps for me?"

After Raaf's reply Alicia continued her history lesson. "After the duel the Holocron survived and was moved to Tatooine, where two minor Sith by the names of Vupua and Veles' raided the home of Master Raaf and stole the Holocron. Fascinating, isn't it? That such a piece of Sith paraphernalia was not only held by a Jedi Master, in secret, might I add, but was not destroyed as you would expect to happen. Indeed, the Raaf lineage of Jedi are fascinating to me."

Nodding her head Alicia rounded her explanation: "The Holocron of Heresies was infamous among the circles of the Sith for several millennia due to tales in which the Holocron would grant a user eternal life, and immortality. When the Holocron ended up in the collection of the late Ayra it is known that she was dealing with an infection that she had been inflicted with on the Demon's Moon. If the Holocron of Heresies possessed the ability to grant a user eternal life then Ayra would still be alive, wouldn't she? Indeed, I fear that if such knowledge was on record by the gatekeeper then it was either destroyed before it's rediscovery in the 840s, or it was destroyed during the six years it spent with Corvus Raaf. Most unfortunate for my predecessor."

"Among the pieces missing from the Holocron of Heresies today is the Lightsaber crystal of Andeddu. It was said that Andeddu stored his very own Lightsaber crystal inside this piece but much like it's alleged ability to grant immortality that too has been lost. Very unfortunate."

"But the Holocron of Heresies, despite it's damage, still retains a considerable wealth of information. If you can convince the gatekeeper to teach a new owner could come to learn rare lessons about Sith magick and illusions. Further coercion and subjugation to the teachings of the gatekeeper might reveal insight into dark side healing studies, with references to Karness Muur: an ancient Dark Jedi who participated in the Order's Second Great Schism. The Holocron possessed a complete respiratory of Master Muur whose story may reveal new insights. Indeed, the Jedi Order are not the only ones with ways to heal oneself with the power of the Force."

"The Holocron also possesses information on it's previous owners. In the thousands of years since it's construction the Holocron of Heresies has found it's way into the hands of many owners. From it's creator Darth Andeddu to Freedon Nadd, whose shortsaber we also have here for sale. Then there was Darth Bane: the legendary Sith'ari who destroyed the Brotherhood of Darkness at the conclusion of the Ruusan Campaign and creator of the Rule of Two ideology."

"Later the Holocron fell into the hands of Darth Tyrannus: a Jedi Master turned Sith Lord who orchestrated the Clone Wars, and whose political ideals of Separatism still persist to today. The Confederacy of Independent Systems has deep roots in today's political arena. Well worth to purchase this item merely to understand how and why Separatism is such a powerful ideology from the very source of the idea."

Alicia glanced at Maldor Mecetti as she finished explaining who Tyrannus was. Indeed, she knew about the aspirations of Obulette and its greatest house. Turning her gaze back to her guest Alicia planted a smile. Having enticed them with this rare and powerful item now it was time to begin the bidding.

"I will now open the bidding to you all. We will begin with a sum of fifty million dataries. The floor will recognise offers which may include other incentives to conclude your bid." Alicia turned to address each guest in turn. "Perhaps Mecetti Industries, Helix Solutions, Aurora Industries, or the Trade Company are willing to part with shares? Or would you be interested in investing into Drey: the agricultural start up I have founded on Lianna? Do you have something to offer up in trade? I am also not ignorant to other forms of currency. Dataries, Druggats, Peggat, Trugut, Wupiupi, Aurodium ingots, Nova crystals, Drallish crown, or Imperial credits. These are currencies that I deal in often."

 

[Maldor Mecetti]

"... the Jedi Order are not the only ones with ways to heal oneself with the power of the Force."

Maldor briefly glanced away as she said this, before forcing himself to look again at her. He was already suspected of illicit Sith interests by the Galactic Alliance. He did not want anyone to further suspect what he was capable of. Perhaps a glance was too small a tell to convey the tale of his thoughts. But he knew there were some people who could read volumes into it.

When she came to Tyrannus and the Separatists, he resisted the urge to frown. It was clear to him why Separatism was an alluring idea, just as it was clear to him that Tyrannus never had any interest in the concept himself. A noble of the Tapani Sector could see a shadow play for what it was. It was no accident that the Emperor and Sith Lord had acquired ever-increasing power alongside every threat that the Separatists posed. Maldor wasn't sure how it was done, but he knew what was done.

Finally came the price.

Fifty Million Credits.

You could buy a used Star Destroyer for that much.

And if Maldor hadn't been coerced into a different acquisition, he might have paid it.

Instead, he remained quiet, quietly fuming at the opportunities that had been stolen by an anonymous caller.

---

Commodore Helix Taeli Raaf Danger Arceneau Trayze Tesar Maldor Mecetti Alicia Drey

 

[Commodore Helix]

Objective: Enjoy the evening/secure the holocron
Tags: Alicia Drey / Maldor Mecetti / Taeli Raaf / Danger Arceneau / Trayze Tesar​

"Fifty-five million." Said Helix, raising a hand and breaking the silence with the first bid. He had mostly looked at the object with disinterest... until he'd learned Count Dooku had owned it. He needed no introductions: he'd been personally acquainted. That made the object a great deal more enticing to him, as a Separatist himself, albeit an extreme one. He'd see if he could get one of his employers to open it in exchange for keeping it when he was done. He had little interest in much of the knowledge inside, but he was interested in Separatism.

Dooku had turned out to be a sham in the end, but the ideals he championed, even if falsely, had merit. It was a steep price to ask, equivalent to a few of his frigates, but he had nothing but money lately, with how fruitful his contracts had been. There was a chance this item could be of use, and that was enough for him. If nothing else, it would be a very useful bargaining chip, and if played right would pay for itself in no time.

 

[Trayze Tesar]

CURRENT MISSION - BUYOUT
Immediate Goals -
1: PRIORITY ONE - Investigate Alicia Drey 's network of intel... how much does she know?
2: Attain the artifacts of import!
2.1: The Book of Rhand
2.2: The Holocron of Darth Revan
2.3: The Holocron of Heresies (ARE YOU SURE YOU WISH TO YIELD THIS ARTIFACT? [Y])
2.4: The Jal-Shay Teachings
2.5: Ella Nova's Lightsaber

BLUFOR - ALLIES UNKNOWN

OPFOR - ENEMY UNKNOWN

TARGETING ACTION(S) - OPEN FOR INTERACTION || Maldor Mecetti || Commodore Helix || Taeli Raaf || Danger Arceneau || Alicia Drey

---

Trayze winced as the contact lenses he had relied upon to extract information sputtered and risked searing his retinas - but a deftly disguised blink at the notion of how much this corpse was worth shielded suspicion. Whatever the over-dramatic hostess had conjured around them, it meant that his more conventional means of recording information was rendered null and void, his Force-sharpened senses noting the culling pressure as verbal communication seemed to be limited to only those within the area of affect.

Whoever this woman was, she came prepared - fortunately, so did Trayze. He had been a detective, and kidnapped far more times than he'd care to admit, so he had relied upon other means of retaining information: his memory, and of course, a jerry-rigged torture chamber to help assist him should he be under some compulsion to forget. The treasure trove of Alicia Drey would not escape him so easily... except for when he chose to acquiesce to his peers.

Darth Arcanix and the droid-commodore were allies of convenience, or at least, more aligned to his objectives than the unknown Ms. Arceneu, or the scion of the Mecettis. Indeed, such a holocron was dear to the Droid's artificial heart, and he would rather keep him on side, even if indirectly. Besides, now with the pain accentuating his sight in the Force, he would note the holocron next to the lightsabers: its contents intrigued him, perhaps more so than the lightsabers. Of course, Malum would chastise him for denying him any form of artifact, but with enough cunning he may be able to place a majority of the items of note within the Sith Order.

Keeping quiet, the Kiffar made no bid on the holocron, blinking his eyes as if to disbelieve the amount of credits being thrown about. Malum had spared no expense, but he had hoped more than mere dataries, that the Lord of the Tsis'kaar trusted his investigative prowess: a book here, a book there, that was all well and good - but since Ms. Drey seemed to have connections, this was more intriguing than historical curiosity.

A hundred-thousand credits was a mere drop in the bucket compared to the mind-boggling sum that the bookwormed Sith bequeathed to him for this mission, but Trayze's intuition told him that this would be a wise investment indeed.

 

[Danger Arceneau]

"You know the saying: any party worth having is a dull affair if there aren't any deaths."

The throaty, amused chuckle that escaped Danger was contagious, spreading a broad grin across her features as she inclined her head towards Taeli Raaf . "Well... reckon I should consider such advice for any hosting events I cater in the future," she quipped, her tone rich with amusement.

Although unlikely, Danger found Taeli's reference amusing. The idea of deaths within her Bazaars or sections of neutrality was a stark contrast to the more indulgent "little deaths" that often occurred in the pleasure-filled areas under her purview. The Ourian Companion Guildhouse remained a bastion of respectability, with companions carefully selected and contracts meticulously curated by Danger herself.

"Care to join me?" Danger offered, gesturing towards a nearby seating area, her keen eyes noting the interaction between Alicia Drey and Taeli Raaf during the auction. Perhaps there was history between them? As for the holocron itself, Danger's interest waned; her focus was firmly set on the ship, the cortosis crates, the crystal generator. She would review each item and strategize her bids accordingly.

Trayze Tesar | Alicia Drey | Commodore Helix | Taeli Raaf | Maldor Mecetti

 

[Taeli Raaf]

Sojourn

"Of course, it would be my pleasure," she responded to Danger quietly, her mind still running through the pieces of the puzzle while one of the guests inquired about purchasing the body on display with their host. She watched with vague interest as the setting was made for the auction, including some sort of interference device to make sure the attendees had complete privacy she assumed.

Eyes would narrow slightly as their host began talking about the history of the Holocron of Heresies, including its more recent history. It was extremely rare knowledge that her sister had recovered and hidden the holocron away from interested parties after her duel with Vitium and Carach with Connor. Names she had not heard in a long time, but there were only four or so individuals in the galaxy that had known about the homestead and what it might have hidden and most of them were either dead or long vanished. Taeli herself, the two Sith that had raided the place, and the woman Taeli had hired to track down those that had ransacked her sister's old home. For this young woman to know about that... her eyes would stay narrowed even as she turned part of her speech towards her in a rhetorical question.

"That would be a conversation for a more... private venue," she answered. She was not about to reveal any secrets, not yet.

As the opening price was made, and the droid commodore made the first bid, she found herself torn. On one hand, there was nothing within the holocron that she didn't already know. She knew the secret of essence transfer already, and she also knew her sister and Connor had damaged that part of the holocron during their duel. She didn't need lessons on Sith magic or illusion casting, nor did she have a particular interest in the previous owners and any impressions they left upon the device. Tyrannus held no interest to her either, or his supposed ideals.

On the other hand, her natural proclivity for acquiring artifacts was still present and it would look nice next to the other ones. Still the price was rather steep.

"I think the last time I bid for a holocron, I got it for 100,000," she said to Danger, chuckling despite herself. It had been how she acquired a holocron made by Naga Sadow, a bargain all things considered. Fifty-five million was excessive, and with the starting bid for the first item so high, she had to wonder if part of their gathering here was a pretext to acquire greater wealth. She would give their host a smile, before looking over at the droid with a gesture of her head.

While she could afford that price, easily, she didn't need it. The droid could have it.

Alicia Drey Danger Arceneau Commodore Helix Trayze Tesar Maldor Mecetti