Dominion The Deal (No Deal?) | THR Dominion of the Mokk IX Hex

[Connel Vanagor]

Back to Business - Crystal Clear
SOTERRIA
CRYSTAL CAVES

Omega Squad Every Day Gear Locations

• Michael, Gabriel, Raguel, Sariel, Raphael, Jeremiel, Connel
  [Any text in brackets signifies comm-link usage and not face to face conversation]
• 
  Rides
  
  • "Enterprise" Station Ship
  • Vigilant Reaper
  • Null Vector
  • Speederbike
  • Iron Psalm
  Gear/Armor
  
  
  • Gear(“Bodycam” Datapad, UAD Drone, link to Seraphim AI included)
  • Lightblaster
  • Shortsabers (“Night” and “Day”)
  • 5 Throwing Lightknives
  • 3 Force Blinding Flashbangs
  • RI-17 Rifle-w-MS-0412 Grenade Launcher
  SURGICAL - CRYBERNETIC IMPLANTS
  
  • Repli Implants that would be for the limbs
  • Bonemer enhancements to strengthen structure of the body
  • Muscle enhancements.
  • Hemo enhancements for blood flow
  • Hawkeye implants for eyes
  • Advanced Medical Implant
  • Scentzy
  • Injected Nanotech upgrades
  
  
  
• Shadow Sanctuary - Enterprise

Cartri did not see anything, in fact he seemed to wonder why he was here. These caves were said to have a tradition dating back thousands of years. It made Connel sigh. Seriously? “Rocks and more rocks”? That’s all you see?

Taking a couple of steps further into the caves, his hands on his hips, Connel turned around with a smirk. You’re not the only one. There was a reason why the Knight was walking inward though, and waving his Padawan forward.

Never be afraid to be completely honest with me. If I am looking for you to find something, I’ll tell you, like now. I am sensing something in these caves that is calling out to us. To you in fact. It was not often nowadays, but sometimes a crystal will call out to a Jedi. It was even more rare if it was telling one to “bring a friend” so to speak. Connel believed the crystal's call was significant, possibly tied to Cartri's growth as a Jedi. He encouraged his Padawan to trust his instincts and explore further, knowing such moments were rare and could reveal deep connections between the Force, the crystal, and Cartri's destiny.

There was a representative with them, and Connel looked at the woman. He did not want to do this without her permission, but this was something that needed to happen. I can tell you right now that the pile over rubble around that large rock was… or at least looks like a weapon’s forge. For Jedi, “The Forge” on Tython is a destination, an attractive piece of history(which he hoped was not looted and destroyed, he grew up being around it on Midvinter during visits) and that was clearly something along those lines, from the flat surface to the appendages that were now rubble. .

Andromeda Demir was nearby... she was with someone whom he looked at and deemed "annoying"...

You are a stronger person than I "Andy".

TAGS • ARE • Cartri Keswoll
Personal Effects - Omega Squad Loadouts​

 

[Saroyan Dovryn]

Objective: Diplomatic Relations
Location: Former GA Embasy, Alliance Quarter, Aurelios, Mokk IX
Attire: Council “Uniform”
Tag: Verity Stuyveris | Dominique Vexx | Elian Abrantes | OPEN
Dialogue Key: Saroyan Dovryn, Serene Valis, Cassian Vered, Lythea Marris, Darius Keth

Director Valis seemed quite eager to provide Senator Stuyveris with plenty of details about Aurelios. She pressed several buttons on the table in front of her and the holo projector came to life. A wide angle view of Aurelios came to life centimeters above the surface of the table. ”Mokkan society has worked hard over the centuries to fill the surface of our planet with the highest level of technology and sophistication. We have grown up in relative galactic obscurity and that has given us space to advance on our own terms. Of greatest interest to anyone who would look to rule over…”

The holo moved seeming to zoom in on the Central Exchange. Director Dorvyn responded with a sharp clearing of her throat. The two had met prior to the meeting as to what should and should not be shared. The Central Exchange was a source of contention between the Directors who had greatly differing public opinions, but unknown to most were able to work closer together behind the scenes. They had known each other in their youths and though political expectations had put a strain on what had been a friendship, when there were no other Directors or cameras in the way these two manages to find acceptable compromises.

Beside Saroyan, Darius Keth tensed noticeably. His hands formed into fists. Director Valis sighed and the zooming image shifted to the Alliance Quarter. The part of Aurelios that was meant for public consumption. ”We’ll start with the Alliance Quarter, where we sit now…”

Her narrated holo-tour of Aurelios was interrupted by the entrance of the High Chancellor. All of the Directors stood and gave a tepid nod to the Chancellor Vexx. Though their actions were obviously rehearsed their faces told completely different stories. Serene carried a welcoming smile. Saroyan and Darius furrowed brows as they closely examined the Chancellor and were obviously less excited about the meeting. Director Marris gave a pleasant smile, though as keeper of all things financial on Mokk IX, she had to be a little more reserved than Serene. Lastly, Arbiter Vered was a calm middle ground between the two opposing political blocs. Just as quickly as they stood, they returned to their seats. With the Chancellor on hand business could begin in earnest, though it didn’t mean that more participants would not arrive.

The tension in Director Keth had eased slightly when Dominique had stated that a security briefing was not necessary. Because it was not necessary for a formal briefing, did not convince him that the Republicans wouldn’t poke and prod to find out more than the Mokkans were willing to divulge willingly. The mention of “economic boon” had Director Marris’ smile beam a bit brighter. Nothing much changed as the Chancellor formally introduced herself. The Directors retook their seats and then the Chancellor started with the niceties.

Understanding the reasons for caution was not the same as accepting them. As Chancellor Vexx spoke, Keth nodded his head. Though he was quite cautious, the need for protective options in the continued absence of connection to a larger defense force was something that he needed to consider. Directors Valis and Marris were starry-eyed at the possibilities for economic and cultural expansion that a deal with the Republic could bring for the Mokkans. Director Dovryn remained stoically unconvinced that joining was the right thing. Her business and the secrets they kept were more secure with less hands coming near them. It would take a lot to convince her. But a vote to join didn’t need to be unanimous. So she would need to speak up when the time came.

Director Keth cleared his throat and spoke first in response. ”In the absence of the Galactic Alliance it is quite true that Mokk IX is more exposed than it has been in quite some time. We had gotten used to being able to count on the buffer and steady shield that the Alliance had provided. In a galaxy of expanding Sith authorities from multiple sources and fluctuating influence of Imperial regimes it is obvious that some sort of alliance will be needed to lessen the vulnerability that us in the know currently feel.”

Saroyan sighed feeling the one bastion of support she felt was unmovable starting to waver. She would need to say something. ”It is true that we are in a vulnerable state for an advancing Sith presence from the Core and given Sith influence on the Mandalorian Empire, they present a threat from the Rim as well. It would be naïve to believe that we can stand alone at the convergence of these powers. However the Republic’s record of protection is not pristine. The acceptance of Corellia did not prevent the…kidnap of an emissary. Alderaan joining your Republic has not made their people safe from the Sith. Might we be more secure in joining the Republic? I think we all know that is a possibility, if adding a Mokkan Senator to the Republic doesn’t go a distance to placing a target on our back.”

Saroyan paused briefly and then looked at Lythea Marris. ”What has made Mokk as thriving as it has? The ability to be exclusive. To be choosy as to who we get into business with. What guarantees do we have that this will continue under the Republic? Our markets are robust. Our technology is state of the art. Why? There will be varying opinions on that. Mine is that we aren’t watered down catering to the entire galaxy. I do not wish to make an enemy of the Republic. At the same time I don’t want to end up subservient to you either. The Republic is the brightest gleam of hope in the galaxy right now. But perhaps there are other options out there.”

​

 

[CT-312]

//: OPEN //:
//: Soteria Crystal Caves, Mokk IX //:
//: Attire //:

//: OBJ III - THE CRYSTAL CAVES OF SOTERIA //:

CT-312 had received the Queen’s message not too long before the descent. Impromptu contact was nothing unusual from Quinn. From security detail to incidents or sudden complications— ”I’m bored”. Fun adventures she’d call it. Those were familiar enough that they barely qualified as surprises anymore. Granted it had been a while since she’d receive any of that sort. What had caught the Scout’s attention was not the summons itself, but the formality of it. The wording had been concise. Too careful. Especially the way it had been signed off at the end.

Quinn Varanin
Queen of Eshan

Her response had been immediate. CT-312 did not need any further explanation to know something had happened. Leather creaked softly as her gloved hand tightened around the grip of her rifle. The Queen had informed her of the details of the incident, along with the embassy’s footage of the altercation.

Now here she was being handed a waiver. A quiet “Ha.” escaped as a brow rose inside the helmet. Never in the Scout’s life had CT-312 been asked to formally sign away responsibility for her own well-being before stepping or thrown into danger. It seemed the High Republic preferred to document its hazards. It was… unusual.

Still, CT-312 was here. After the sudden incident, she had come to this area as acting proxy for the Queen of Eshan. “Community Service” the Scout and BARCA called it, a quiet private joke. But the purpose beneath it was real enough. Whatever CT-312 had found here would be recovered and documented, brought back to Quinn. From there it would be shared with the High Republic. Good faith and cooperation. Slow work of building relations between the powers that were still learning how to stand in the same room.

BARCA had pulled the summary briefing up across the HUD.

<:// Location: Mokk IX, Soteria Crystal Caves //:>
<:// Assigned: The Queen of Eshan, Quinn Varanin //:>
<:// Local Threats: Scavengers, Thieves, Tomb Raiders, Environmental Hazards //:>
<:// Primary Objective: Investigate the newly discovered ancient settlement. Secure unstable chambers. Recover fragile records. Identify the purpose of this apparent sanctuary. //:>

As CT-312 continued deeper into the caves, her standard kit had been traded for a lighter reconnaissance gear. Dull plating sat beneath a weathered hood and scarf wrapped around her. The layers breaking up the armor’s silhouette, making her far less distinguishable. Data scrolled across her HUD as BARCA registered additional signatures around them.

One Pred-X followed behind. Its mechanical limbs adjusting with soft clicks against the uneven slope. The second Pred-X had remained in a larger cavern with a War-X. Its larger frame made it difficult for it to pass on through. Voicing its displeasure with a series of mechanical huffs and grinding servos. Waiting patiently for CT-312’s return.

Farther down below, water dripped in slow intervals. Sounds behaved oddly. Her boot steps echoed, returning stretched and altered. The Pred-X behind her clicked once and the sound scattered into the crystals around them. CT-312 studied the crystals that were protruding out of the entrance.

This was not like the lava crystals or caves CT-312 had encountered on Erinar. These were colder and clearer. Their blue light did not pulse, it resonated. A low hum moved through the air around them, so faint that it might have been mistaken for distant machinery or blood moving behind the ears…. Except it was neither.

CT-312 stilled, as did the droid. The sound remained. BARCA showed no anomaly, yet she could still hear it. There was a delicate persistent pull brushing against her, urging her forward. Her visor turned slightly, looking deeper into the settlement. There. CT-312 began to move again, the Pred-X behind her. Blue light slid over her as she passed beneath the fractured stone archway, deeper into the ancient settlement.

 

[Dominique Vexx]

"Exclusivity -- like ownership -- only exists for as long as you can retain it, Director Dovryn." Dominique spread her hands out to either side. "Unlike most, the High Republic makes no threat and commands no obedience; but the truth remains. Even we contend with those unsatisfied to keep to themselves." Hopefully, the good Director didn't think self-proclaimed neutrality was still an option and the Sith would leave them alone. "First, the Black Sun. Then just as we readied ourselves for the Sith Covenant, the Supreme Commander Marlon Sularen. Corellia -- as you pointed out. A world not yet officially part of the Republic and so lacking solidified, defense positions or rapid response forces. Corellia, who is now shielded from another bout from the Core, the Hutts, or even self-professed Kings."

"It is the central, guiding philosophy of the Republic that we are stronger together than we are apart. Was the soon-to-be Representative of Corellia not swiftly recovered by the High Republic?" Dominique calmly regarded those before her. "Our detractors would have people believe us lacking in strength of arms or will to put to action our lofty ideals. Our actions in the wake of his abduction should demonstrate otherwise." One could even argue they'd played a part in destabilizing the Confederation, but Dominique wasn't going to make that claim. It wasn't her desire to go around engaging in regime changes simply because they could. After all, now all those worlds were dealing with the fallout of that dissolution -- hardly something to crow about.

"Were to you join the Republic, you would retain rights to decide the manner in which people immigrate to and live on your own planets, and in the conduct of business, of course. There are common laws enacted by the Senate to ensure stability and commerce between all worlds, but not at the cost of the sovereign rights of those worlds." Her golden rings slid across the Directors in attendence. "Before I was elected as Chancellor, I represented my home world of Denon in its incorporation as part of the Republic. As a world focused on development, and having come perilously close to being the victim of overzealous legislation in the Galactic Alliance, I had many of the same concerns as yourselves. Rest assaured, the Senate shall not be usurping the authority of planetary governments." As the Alliance's Senate and New Jedi had threatened to do to Denon. The Corporate Authorities might well have earned being expelled, but that hardly justified such a blatant and unabashed power grab by an interstellar government. "Not solely because of my personal guarantee, but as a result of the rights enshrined in the High Republic's Charter of Unity."

The Chancellor paused a moment with a smile.

"While the Republic would welcome your interest today, should you require time to contemplate 'other options' we would await word. Our ear would always be open for any questions or discussions you might have at any time. The High Republic has nothing to hide. Not even the manner in which we have handled difficult circumstances." After all, Dominique was fairly confident there wasn't rival with similar standing as the High Republic in the present day. For better or worse. Frankly, she wouldn't have minded a solid, diplomatic rival. The Mandalorians were suitable partners, but the only other partner at scale were the Sith and... they had a very poor track record when it came to long-term diplomatic relations.

Saroyan Dovryn | Verity Stuyveris | Elian Abrantes | Open​

 

[Verity Stuyveris]

\

​

Verity enjoyed Director Valis' discussion of the city and gave it her full attention until the Chancellor entered, at which point the axis in the room shifted. That was as it should be. A single brow arched at the Chancellor's response, but the Senator for Druckenwell offered only a vaguely chastened smile in response. She rounded back to the Republic side of the table and resumed her seat, taking up her stylus, and dutifully began to take minutes.

Not that it was her responsibility; she was a Senator, after all, and not a transcriptionist.

However, Verity was interested in Dominique's method. The woman had risen to the top job in the High Republic -- arguably one of the most powerful women in the galaxy. That made her a case study, an exemplar. She followed the exchange that followed, watching with the avid interest of a tennis fan, watching the ball whacked back and forth.

It was a delicate situation here, but Dominique seemed to be handling it masterfully.

Dominique Vexx | Saroyan Dovryn | Elian Abrantes
​

 

[Cartri Keswoll]

Location: Crystal Cave
Objective: Obtain a crystal
Tag: Connel Vanagor

Cartri stared into the cave's dark abyss, a strange sensation prickling at the edges of his awareness. It wasn't fear, at least, not entirely, but something unfamiliar, something he couldn't quite name. Connel would have recognized it instantly as the call of a crystal. But for the young Padawan, it was wholly new.

A faint whisper brushed against his mind, subtle yet insistent, as though something deep within the cave was beckoning him forward.

"I can feel something… but it isn't close yet. If it's the crystals, they're deeper inside," Cartri said, his voice low as he moved ahead. He slowed to a stop beside the heap of rubble Connel had described as a former forge. To Cartri, it barely looked like anything at all, just shattered stone and broken tools, long abandoned. Still, he could piece together its purpose. A forge. Perhaps for crafting lightsaber hilts… or something far older.

"I can probably guess what weapons it made," he added, a trace of dry sarcasm in his voice as he stepped past it. "If it was a forge, it's clear the poor thing's seen better days."

He glanced back once, then forward again into the darkness.

"Whoever used it last… they've been gone a long time."

 

[Connel Vanagor]

Back to Business - Crystal Clear
SOTERRIA
CRYSTAL CAVES

Omega Squad Every Day Gear Locations

• Michael, Gabriel, Raguel, Sariel, Raphael, Jeremiel, Connel
  [Any text in brackets signifies comm-link usage and not face to face conversation]
• 
  Rides
  
  • "Enterprise" Station Ship
  • Vigilant Reaper
  • Null Vector
  • Speederbike
  • Iron Psalm
  Gear/Armor
  
  
  • Gear(“Bodycam” Datapad, UAD Drone, link to Seraphim AI included)
  • Lightblaster
  • Shortsabers (“Night” and “Day”)
  • 5 Throwing Lightknives
  • 3 Force Blinding Flashbangs
  • RI-17 Rifle-w-MS-0412 Grenade Launcher
  SURGICAL - CRYBERNETIC IMPLANTS
  
  • Repli Implants that would be for the limbs
  • Bonemer enhancements to strengthen structure of the body
  • Muscle enhancements.
  • Hemo enhancements for blood flow
  • Hawkeye implants for eyes
  • Advanced Medical Implant
  • Scentzy
  • Injected Nanotech upgrades
  
  
  
• Shadow Sanctuary - Enterprise

Good… you’re picking up on it. Let’s go for a walk.

As they strolled closer to what was once a forge, Connel thought about his trips to Tython, and the “endless old man drawl” of his father extolling the history by the legendary platform. It was just something he brought to and from Midvinter to Connel until now. Now he has started to understand. Yeah, time doesn’t cooperate… I don’t know about this one, but the one on Tython. That was something that was ceremonial for Padawans who gathered the materials for their first lightsaber. They took the materials there and built it.

He thought about what it must have been like those days. Now? Now there was no respect, not to that level, just… “going through the motions”... being a Jedi should mean something. The representative who walked with them seemed to be on their guard, so to speak. Whether it was concern over their safety or items being stolen did not matter. Connel just looked at her. Thank you for allowing us to be in these caves.

TAGS • ARE • Cartri Keswoll
Personal Effects - Omega Squad Loadouts​

 

[Lorn Reingard]

Tags: CT-312 | Bastila Sal-Soren​

Lorn stood with his arms folded, staring into the heart of the chamber. At its center sat a massive crystal that filled the cavern with a persistent, resonant hum. The Force radiated from the structure in rhythmic waves, a sensation so physical Lorn assumed even the uninitiated could feel the vibration in their bones. He remained still, letting the light of the stone wash over his weathered features while he mentally mapped the room's odd geometry.

His Padawan, Bastila, had already ventured off to scout the chamber. Lorn had encouraged it. He wasn't naturally inclined toward teaching, preferring the silence of his own thoughts to the constant energy of a student. Being a Master felt like wearing a suit of armor that didn't quite fit, but the Council's mandates were rarely about comfort. He hoped this exploration would remain academic. He and Bastila had seen enough "strange artifacts" lately to last a lifetime.

A shift in the atmosphere caught his attention. He didn't turn his head, instead extending his senses toward the tunnel entrance. A presence was approaching. It moved with disciplined steps accompanied by the mechanical clicking of a droid. The newcomer felt focused and neutral, lacking the jagged edges of a threat.

Lorn kept his focus on the central crystal, though his hand rested habitually near his belt. The tragedies of his past had taught him that peace was often just the quiet space between disasters. He waited for the figure to emerge from the blue shadows of the archway, curious to see who else the High Republic had sent to poke at these ancient bones.

"Peaceful enough," he murmured to the empty air, his voice low and gravelly. He didn't move to intercept the guest. If they were here for the history, there was plenty of it to go around. He simply watched the shimmering reflections on the ceiling, waiting for the scout to make the first move.

 

[Jorik Dane]

Private Jorik Dane
Grand Army of the High Republic
Location: Mokk IX Forward Encampment
​

Jorik hated dress assignments.
He stood at the edge of the landing platform overlooking the diplomatic quarter, posture rigid, hands clasped behind his back like the officers drilled into him.
Below, polished speeders glided in neat lines, their passengers draped in fine fabrics and quieter agendas. Senators, nobles, corporate delegates—people who could decide the fate of entire systems with a conversation and a smile.
And him?
He was there to make sure nobody got shot.

“Stabilize the region,” they said.
“Historic negotiations,” they said.
Jorik shifted his weight slightly, eyes scanning the crowd again. He wasn’t bored—he didn’t allow himself that luxury—but there was a disconnect he couldn’t shake. Out here, everything was clean. Controlled. Measured.
Nothing like the training grounds.
Nothing like war.

A pair of diplomats passed beneath his vantage point, their voices too soft to make out, but their tension obvious even from a distance. Jorik tracked them until they disappeared into one of the pavilion halls, jaw tightening just slightly.

This is where things start, he thought. Not with blasters. With words.

Didn’t make it any less dangerous.
A sharp whine split the air overhead, pulling his attention skyward. A formation of RAF fighters screamed across the atmosphere, engines roaring as they angled toward the distant Hesperidean Belt. Even from here, he could feel it in his chest—the pull of it. Speed. Risk. Something honest.

His lips pressed into a thin line.
“That’s where the real ones are,” he muttered under his breath.
Pilots pushing themselves to the edge. No politics. No masks. Just skill and survival.

For a moment—just a moment—he wished he was up there instead of down here playing statue for people who’d never see the front lines.

A comm chirped softly at his wrist.

“All units, remain alert. Increased civilian density in Sector Aurek. Report any irregularities immediately.”​

Jorik tapped the receiver. “Copy.”​

His gaze dropped from the sky back to the crowd below.
“Yeah,” he murmured, more to himself now. “Irregularities.”
Like a planet that didn’t want to join.
Like deals that didn’t sit right.
Like the feeling that everyone here was smiling a little too easily.

His grip tightened behind his back.
Not far from the diplomatic sector, transport ships were being prepped for Soteria—scientists, Jedi, and whoever else was brave or foolish enough to dig into ancient ruins that might rewrite history.

Jorik had overheard some of the chatter.
Old settlements. Proto-Jedi connections. Something buried that maybe shouldn’t be.
He didn’t like that either.
Didn’t like any of this, if he was being honest.

Too many unknowns. Not enough armor between them.
Still—he was a Private. Fresh. Barely deployed. This was his place, whether he liked it or not.

Hold the line. Watch the crowd. Trust the people above him knew what they were doing.

Jorik exhaled slowly, forcing the tension out of his shoulders.
“Doesn’t matter,” he said under his breath. “Job’s the job.”

His eyes sharpened again, scanning faces, movements, patterns—anything that didn’t fit.
Because if something went wrong here…
He’d be one of the first to see it.
And maybe the last line before it got worse.

//OPEN//

​

 

[Bastila Sal-Soren]

Bastila had moved to where the chamber narrowed into ribs of stone and crystal, one hand brushing the wall as she passed. The blue light that was cast around the room found every edge of her, turning leather to midnight and skin to pale bronze.

She paused beside a fractured pillar, lowering herself into a crouch. The tunnel beyond opened into a lattice of older corridors, whoever had built beneath this world had understood shape as language. Angles that should have felt harsh instead guided the eye. It was architecture meant to instruct those who entered into feeling completely insignificant.

The thought was enough to make Bastila frown.

The Force rolled through the stone in measured pulses, each thrum touching the inside of her chest. It was not like the living current of forests or oceans, nor the clean serenity of temple halls. This was strangely ordered, like it was harnessed and bound to the crystal that she had left Lorn by just around the corner of the crystal. She disliked it immediately.

Her fingers moved to the hilt at her side, not drawing, merely resting there.

Somewhere deeper within the adjoining dark came the scrape of metal feet and the cadence of disciplined boots. Another arrival. She had felt the approach moments before Lorn would have, though she suspected he knew that already and said nothing out of principle.

A faint smile ghosted at one corner of her mouth. Master Lorn did enjoy pretending the galaxy surprised him.

She rose and stepped from behind the pillar, choosing height over concealment, boots carrying her lightly onto a natural shelf overlooking the chamber floor. From there she could see him below, arms folded as if carved there with the stone itself, staring into the great crystal like an old hunter deciding whether a beast was worth the effort. Beyond him, shadows moved at the archway entrance.

Bastila let her voice descend first. “You always bring me to the strangest of places,” she called, calm but edged with amusement. “One day do you think we could skip the giant force artifacts that we don’t know anything about and maybe just do something mundane.”

She vaulted down the last few feet, landing beside him with effortless grace. Blue light caught in her dark braid as she straightened. Her hazel eyes lifted toward the tunnel mouth, sharp and assessing.

“Like star gazing,” she said quietly, more for Lorn than anyone else. “Or mountain climbing.”

Her gaze slid briefly to the massive crystal, expression tightening.

“This…thing, is wrong.”

That was all the warning she offered. Bastila folded her hands behind her back, posture composed, every inch the dutiful Padawan to an untrained eye. Only the slight shift of her stance betrayed readiness.

Then she fixed her attention on the approaching figure and waited for them to step fully into the light.

OUTFIT: XoXo | TAG: Lorn Reingard CT-312 EQUIPMENT:

​

 

[Saroyan Dovryn]

Objective: Diplomatic Relations
Location: Former GA Embasy, Alliance Quarter, Aurelios, Mokk IX
Attire: Council “Uniform”
Tag: Verity Stuyveris | Dominique Vexx | Elian Abrantes | | Ra'a'mah | Vulpesen | OPEN
Dialogue Key: Saroyan Dovryn, Serene Valis, Cassian Vered, Lythea Marris, Darius Keth

The Chancellor’s words settled into the room like a measured weight—deliberate, calculated, and undeniably practiced. Serene did not interrupt. She allowed the silence to breathe just long enough for it to feel intentional.

Then—"An impressive position," Lythea Marris said smoothly, stepping forward just enough to claim her space in the conversation without overtaking it. Her gaze lingered on Chancellor Vexx, but her attention was already elsewhere—numbers, projections, unseen flows of capital moving behind every word spoken.

"The High Republic has maintained continuity where others fractured. That alone has value." A slight tilt of her head. "And opportunity."

Her fingers tapped lightly against the edge of her datapad. "Mokkan enterprises are… adaptable. Under the Republic, the expansion potential would be considerable. You have not suffered the same contractual collapses that followed the fall of the Galactic Alliance."

A faint smile, polite but sharp. "Which suggests stability. Stability invites investment. Investment invites influence." She let that linger—just long enough.

Keth spoke next. No transition. No diplomacy. "Your willingness to fight isn’t in question," Darius Keth said, voice even, grounded, his gaze fixed squarely on the Chancellor. "History answers that clearly."

A beat. "Your capacity is." The words were not hostile. They were worse. They were analytical.

"Multiple fronts. Fragmented theaters. Competing priorities." His jaw shifted slightly, not tension—calculation. "That stretches even the most organized command structure."

His eyes narrowed, just slightly. "And then there are the Mandalorians."

A pause—measured, deliberate. "You trust them." Not a question. "We do not."

His tone remained flat. "Honor is… negotiable. In our experience, it usually is."

A subtle shift of his stance. "If they are what they claim, they can be bought. If they cannot be bought, they are something else entirely." He did not elaborate. He didn’t need to.

Serene moved then—but not back into the center. Instead, she let the weight of Keth’s words remain with the Chancellor, stepping just slightly off-angle from the primary exchange. Her movement was subtle, almost incidental, yet intentional enough to create a quieter space at the edge of the room.

Her attention shifted—this time fully—to Senator Stuyveris. "Senator," she said, her tone lowering just a fraction, warmer now, more conversational than performative. "Your Chancellor speaks in structures. I find individuals often provide… clearer insight."

A small, knowing smile. "Tell me—when the Republic extends its reach, does it adapt to the systems it encounters…" A brief pause, her gaze steady, inviting rather than pressing. "…or does it expect them to adapt in return?" She didn’t press further. Didn’t need to. The question was the opening.

Behind her, the primary exchange continued. Saroyan. "Expansion," she said quietly. The word cut cleanly through the layered diplomacy that had begun to form. Her gaze rested on the Chancellor now—not confrontational, not challenging. Exact. "Security," she added. Another beat. "Stability."

She exhaled softly, as if organizing the conversation into something more precise. "All of these are presented as shared outcomes." A slight tilt of her head. "They are not."

Silence followed. Intentional. "The Mokkan Directorate does not lack for stability," she continued, her tone even, measured, almost conversational. "Nor security. Nor growth."

Her fingers shifted slightly at her side—barely noticeable. "What is being proposed is not access to these things." A pause. "It is integration."

The word lingered longer than the others. "Integration introduces dependency." Her gaze sharpened—not emotionally, but analytically. "Dependency introduces influence."

A fractional step forward. "And influence, Chancellor… is rarely applied in only one direction." There it was. The edge. Not hostility. Clarity.

"Mokkans are best served by systems we fully control," she said. "Structures that cannot be redefined by external consensus or political necessity."

Her attention shifted briefly—just enough to acknowledge the broader room. "There are alternatives." Now that drew weight.

"Veradune," she said, as if referencing a data point rather than introducing a strategy. "A coalition forming. Coordinated defense. Targeted."

A slight pause. "Focused Sith opposition." Her gaze returned to the Chancellor. "No centralized government. No layered bureaucracy. No dilution of authority."

Another pause. "Mutual defense without systemic absorption." She let that settle. "Efficiency without exposure."

And finally—"That model warrants consideration."

​

 

[Ra'a'mah]

Objective: 1
Tagging: Dominique Vexx Saroyan Dovryn Verity Stuyveris

Ra'a'mah Numare entered without announcement. There was no shift in lighting, no herald, no gesture meant to draw attention. She stepped into the chamber at the natural pause between exchanges, her presence settling into the room with the quiet assurance of someone accustomed to places where decisions mattered more than the spectacle surrounding them.

Her attire reflected that same restrained precision. She wore a long coat of deep charcoal, its matte, finely structured fabric falling in a clean line that suggested both mobility and authority. Beneath it, a fitted slate-blue tunic softened the silhouette without diminishing its discipline. At her left shoulder rested a small, polished emblem of the United Protectorate of Sovereign Systems, understated in size yet unmistakable in meaning. It was the only ornament she allowed herself, worn with the quiet confidence of someone who did not need to announce her authority. A smaller insignia at her collar marked her citizenship within the High Republic, visible only when the light caught it at the right angle.

Her gaze moved through the chamber in a single, fluid sweep. She took in the High Republic delegation first, noting the balance of posture and tone, the way Chancellor Dominique Vexx held the conversational center with practiced steadiness, and how Senator Stuyveris observed the room with a quiet, calculating patience that suggested he preferred to gather leverage before revealing intent. Others clustered around the exchange in predictable orbits, each revealing more in their silences than in their words.

Then the Mokkan directors. Serene Valis, whose warmth was deployed with the precision of a diplomat who understood its strategic value. Marris, already running numbers behind his eyes, pricing futures before they existed. Keth, whose caution felt structural rather than emotional. Vered, listening for fractures beneath polite phrasing. And Saroyan Dovryn, perhaps the most intriguing, who regarded the proceedings with the analytical distance of someone who trusted systems more than sentiment and skepticism more than reassurance.

Only after she had taken the full measure of the room did Ra incline her head.

"Forgive the interruption," she said, her voice smooth and even, carrying easily without the need for volume. "I was told Mokk IX values efficiency. It seemed unnecessary to wait outside while so much of it was already being discussed."

A faint suggestion of amusement touched her expression, subtle and fleeting.

She stepped forward just far enough to be part of the space without presuming a place within either delegation.

"Ra'a'mah Numare," she offered. "Independent trade consortium. Regional logistics, strategic transit, and the kinds of acquisitions that become necessary when conventional supply lines falter." The description was accurate, though it revealed only what she intended.

Her gaze settled briefly on Saroyan. "You speak of integration as dependency. Sometimes it becomes that," she said, allowing a measured pause to settle. "But it can also become leverage when entered from a position of strength."

She turned to Marris with the same calm precision. "Markets that remain exclusive often become efficient. Markets that remain isolated often become vulnerable. The distinction is not academic."

Then to Keth. "And any defense model built solely on trust is an aspiration rather than a strategy. Any model built solely on force becomes unsustainable."

Her attention returned to the room as a whole, her posture relaxed but her clarity unmistakable.

"Mokk IX sits at a convergence of currents. That position is rarely comfortable, but it is undeniably valuable. The question before you is not whether larger powers will shape the region. They will." She allowed the truth of that to settle before continuing.

"The question is whether you intend to shape them in return." Her hands folded lightly before her, the gesture steady and unforced.

"I have no vote in your politics, no desire to diminish your sovereignty, and no inclination toward ceremonial speeches. But if a practical perspective is welcome, independent systems endure by diversifying their dependencies rather than consolidating them."

She glanced toward Dominique, then back to the directors.

"Partnership with one power. Trade lanes with another. Security understandings with a third. Local control maintained throughout." Her tone remained even, but the meaning carried with unmistakable clarity. "The galaxy does not punish weakness first. It punishes rigidity."

When she fell silent, it was not the silence of withdrawal but the kind that opens space for serious minds to consider what has been placed before them. An offered silence, deliberate and steady.

 

[Verity Stuyveris]

​

Verity was surprised to be addressed specifically. She looked up, ice-blue eyes meeting Director Valis' unflinchingly.

"Let us not forget that democracy is also a system, Director. My Chancellor speaks with the authority placed in her hands by the billions of people of the High Republic who voted for her. Myself, incidentally, included," she said with a hint of good humor tugging the corners of her mouth up. Not quite a smile, but a softening. The Mokkians certainly had a way of speech about them. Almost poetic. Certainly polished. She cleared her throat and leaned forward, long fingers lacing together.

"The truth is," she went on. "It is an adaptation. The member world adapts to the Republic. The Republic adapts to the member world. It is a relationship that operates in both directions. There are few non-negotiables -- among them, sentient rights protections, democracy, and minimal civil rights. Beyond that, membership is what one makes it. But that is true of anything, I find. Don't you agree?"

She picked up her stylus, made a note. "Consider that the Republic is home to many distinct worlds. I don't mean simply that each is its own -- a rather useless tautology. What I mean is, the pastoral idylls of Naboo and the roaring ecumenopolis of Denon co-exist with the desert sands of Tatooine and the industrial powerhouse of my own homeworld of Druckenwell. A thriving and robust hereditary -- and in some cases, meritocratic -- nobility is shoulder-to-shoulder with a functioning representative democracy."

Verity spread her hands. "That doesn't happen by accident. And it doesn't happen with a top-down bureaucracy imposing its will on member worlds."

Saroyan Dovryn | Dominique Vexx | Elian Abrantes | Ra'a'mah | Vulpesen
​

 

[Balun Dashiell]

DEAL OR NO DEAL | MOX IV DOMINION
INVENTORY: Jedi Robes, Lightsaber
NPC: BB-Model Astromech "Chip"
TAGS: Andromeda Demir

Balun's BB-Model Astromech "Chip" had an interesting time of navigating the cavernous floor of the cave system they had entered not too far behind Andromeda Demir and her companion Dr. Volante, the little spherical droid who's illuminating beam fluctuated with every chaotic movement as it either utilised its small pulse thrusters, or its jump cables to advance over particularly difficult terrain the droid couldn't simply roll across.

Watching his friend's ordeal made the Jedi Knight grin to himself, and as if having noticed Balun's amusement, Chip gave a whirl of frustration, of which the Jedi among the pair was well versed in binary to understand the curse word. "Grife, I hope you don't talk like that around Cerys or Kellan", Balun muttered under his breath, knowing that the first of the two names he had mentioned would likely encourage such talk, while his son would learn to repeat it.

Raising his right arm from his side ever so slightly, Balun channelled the Force from within and then projected his concentration to the small droid. Chip gave a sudden whistle of surprise and alarm as he started to lavitate up into the air, only further making Balun smirk to himself and trying to calm the astromech; "Calm down, I'm trying to help you. If I'd known you'd be this hopeless, I'd have left you on the ship" he laughed softly and continued to trek the path with the droid drifting in his control along by his side.

While there was something to be said about frivolous use of the Force, there was also the nature of the Jedi who could not stand by while others were in need, and in this particular case, it just so happened that the one in need was his friend. It didn't especially matter that his friend was a droid, nor that Balun had been the one to get Chip into this situation. It was simply what it was. There were worse crimes being committed out there in the Galaxy.

Up ahead, Balun could hear Adromeda speaking to her companion once more and save for his droid, he didn't exactly have a plan of attack for the day; thus, on a whim, he decided to catch up to the pair of them. "Apologies for the interruption", he called ahead, not loudly but assertive enough to catch their attention and realise that Balun was speaking to the pair of them; "Would either of you mind if we joined you both? This isn't exactly my everyday environment, if you catch my drift?".

Jedi Apprentice: Cerys Dyn
Major Faction: The High Republic
Sub-Faction: Jhaessa Prime
Conglomerate: Dashiell Incorporated™
Subsidiary Company: Dashiell Retrofit™​

"Speech"
'Thought'​

 

[Andromeda Demir]

​

Andromeda turned at the faint echo of argumentative binary interspersed with the low response of a man.

"Oh. Poor thing," Andromeda murmured, though she didn't specify about which she was talking. She had the faint half-smile of a woman who knew the struggle. It wasn't identical, but she had had her fair share of frustrationg with her onetime droid companion, an ancient pit droid. He, too, had struggled with the terrain of almost any description. Dr. Volante also turned, pausing the explanation, and waited until Balun Dashiell and his mechanical friend caughtup.

"Not at all," Dr. Volante said pleasantly. "I was just explaining to Knight Demir here some of the precautions we took in these caverns to prevent -- hopefully, touch wood -- any collapses or cave-ins." She gestured helpfully to Andromeda when she said 'Knight Demir' by way of introduction.

"Andromeda," she said, holding out her hand for a businesslike shake. "This is Reid Brimarch," she added, gesturing to Reid Brimarch , one of Master Basran's padawans, who had been sent to gather data on the historical nature of the cavern discovery. "Will your droid be able to manage?"

Balun Dashiell | Reid Brimarch

​

 

[Dominique Vexx]

Dominique smiled and offered Lythea a slight nod at her graciousness. Not that she didn't overlook how it could be part of a coordinated effort to lull her into a false sense of security. Perhaps an effort to unbalance her mentally for a verbal blow; a strategy designed to throw her off and reveal something otherwise held in confidence. Or she could simply be pleasant company. Either were fine in her estimation. She hadn't been a Senator and Director on Denon assuming everything would go her way, and perturbed when someone had the audacity to act independently.

Though it would make things a lot easier if they'd acquiesce to her plans.

Golden rings slid toward Keth then as he stepped in swiftly to needle matters of defense. A mild raise of both brows followed his assertion. It wasn't an invalid statement, after all. Every faction had a limit in their ability to respond. Even the Mandalorian Empire wasn't unconquerable before a sufficiently advanced or numerous force of insidious intent. It was impossible to possess the perfect defense, and retain the perfectly stable and prosperous society. At least if you had any intention of maintaining even the illusion of free will.

Mandalorians. The very people Keth brought forward in consideration in short order.

"With respect, Director Keth, the honor of an honorable Mandalorian is never negotiable. Their allegiance, however, is as you said. Defining the means, length, and terms of their participation in defensive or offensive maneuvers is paramount to avoid untimely action or inaction on their part." Seeing how the Empire was so near to Mokk IX it didn't hurt to offer them a little friendly advice in how to deal with them, did it? If they so much as insinuated what they'd just said to her openly to their face they'd find a hostile negotiation on their hands.

As for Serene, Dominique wasn't about to try corralling the woman back into the fold. Verity was a capable and astute woman.

Which then brought matters to Saoryan's concerns. The culmination of isolated matters the others had brought up. To which the Chancellor's smile grew slightly as her attention turned to the one that doubted the mutually beneficial nature Dominique sought to sell them on.

Dependency. There was that word again. And it hadn't been Ravion's barb in the Senate that'd been the first time Dominique had heard someone wring their hands over it. In fact, it'd been the Mandalorians. Before she had even become the Chancellor; back when as a Director of Denon she'd sought to establish economic ties with the Empire. Why not? They had needs. Denon had products and services -- and so did the Republic as a whole. Curious that so many people were afraid of the interconnected nature of a prosperous marketplace these days.

Influence? Well, of course. Businesspeople weren't in business because they were charitable. Relationships opened doors to even more opportunities, which in turn beget even more opportunities. It was a strange thing to fear, far as a Corpo was concerned. After all, was the reverse not also true? That a new market might influence the established one? The risks of destabilization and currency depreciation were not to be overlooked; but they were rarely so great as to squash the potential of new markets.

Ra'a'mah soon drifted onto the scene as a proposal that was not a proposal was laid before the Chancellor. Dominique only turned her head slightly to bring the latest addition to the conversation into view.

"I do not disagree in principle. One should diversify their holdings so that a single crisis does not threaten your solvency," the Chancellor replied in the wake of the proposal for distributed power sharing. "Though I would recommend Mokk Nine to diversify with regional enterprises, alliances, and partners rather than 'Powers.' Naturally, the High Republic has plenty of its own to offer, and you would be free to choose from among them whether you join or not -- merely a difference in beaucracy. All said, an interstellar government's role is best left to providing a stable marketplace, enshrining rights, and resolving interplanetary matters. In that case a shared partnership between multiple interstellar governments is far less efficient and prone to the sort of strife most seek to avoid." To have the Sith Covenant, Mandalorian Empire, and High Republic governments all 'helping' Mokk Nine's inhabitants concurrently was inviting disaster.

"Which is where I worry concerning an cooperative that lacks a centralized government," the Chancellor looked back to Saroyan in particular. "Beaucracy is often seen as an impendiment, but it is designed to ensure no party easily tramples another. When complex problems arise, who is given charge to resolve them? How far can they go? Where can a decision be challenged?" She looked to each of those gathered around in turn as she spoke. "A lack of government is efficient until the moment the system collapses under the weight of self-interest." It was, perhaps, the very thing Darkwire had desired for Denon. If Dominique had ever had the chance to talk to them directly she would have tried to explain the problem with similar ideals. People were people. All it took was time. And when that person finally showed up, it was best to have a bunch of like-minded self-interested (yet invested -- the key factor) people to keep that person from taking absolute control.

"If there is interest in something less... wholistic, there is room for discussion. There would, of course, be expectations by other members that the Republic maintain market stability. If Mokk Nine were, for example, entirely independent, but afforded protection by our Fleet, others might question whether you have an economic advantage. They'd certainly challenge an effort to retain voting representation in the Senate. You wouldn't begrudge them a desire for balance." No one got all the benefits with none of the costs. Dominique liked efficiency. She liked Mokk Nine not being push-overs. But she wasn't a push-over herself. As for the idea of someone being separate but within their borders it wasn't unheard of. The Falleen were hardly the greatest proponents for galactic unity. Besides, even if discussion began on the premise of complete independence it didn't mean it ended there.

Verity Stuyveris | Saroyan Dovryn | Elian Abrantes | Ra'a'mah | Vulpesen​

 

[Balun Dashiell]

DEAL OR NO DEAL | MOX IV DOMINION
INVENTORY: Jedi Robes, Lightsaber
NPC: BB-Model Astromech "Chip"
TAGS: Andromeda Demir | Reid Brimarch

Balun listened to Dr Volante as he quickly recapped what he had been speaking to Andromeda Demir and Reid Brimarch about before the fellow Jedi Knight reiterated her first name and extended her hand in greeting, of which Balun politely took it in a shake of greeting, though bowed his head also, as per their custom and show of respect among Jedi.

"Pleased to meet the three of you, my name's Balun Dashiell and this here is Chip", he gestured to the BB-Model Astromech still suspended in the air, aided by the Jedi Knights' control and current application of sustained telekinesis. Now, however, that they were briefly stationary, Balun let the droid down to the solid earth and relinquished his command of the Force, pleased not to have to resort to it unnecessarily.

"Thankfully, Chip is quite resilient and has been through his share of experiences over the years. Since we came together, I've been able to modify some of his utilities like his jump-jets, for example, he'll be fine," Balun explained in answer to Andromeda before glancing back to the good Doctor Volante; "How common are these potential cave-ins you mentioned, if you don't mind my asking?" The Jedi asked curiously.

Balun hadn't been briefed on the history of these caves, how long they had been excavated, how recent their discovery had been, or that the new ruins had seemingly stirred up all the new traffic to the site. If there were a cave-in on a day such as today, the sheer number of people trapped beneath the earth would be significant. It was that thought that led Balun to glance at Andromeda and wonder if she had considered the same thing.

Jedi Apprentice: Cerys Dyn
Major Faction: The High Republic
Sub-Faction: Jhaessa Prime
Conglomerate: Dashiell Incorporated™
Subsidiary Company: Dashiell Retrofit™​

"Speech"
'Thought'​

 

[Andromeda Demir]

​

A ripple of surprise ran through Andromeda when Balun introduced himself. "Dashiell, did you say?" she asked as they shook hands. "Any relation to a Makai Dashiell? I ran into him on Bassadro not long ago, after that terrible collapse." What a small universe indeed it would be if they were related.

She gave the droid, Chip, a polite nod. Droids weren't people, strictly speaking, but she had never gone wrong treating one like people. "That sounds very handy," Andy said before turning the floor over to Dr. Volante to answer the question -- a question that was on the tip of Andromeda's own tongue. These Dashiells were no slouches when it came to subterranean trouble.

"There haven't been any cave-ins since we entered the chamber -- not yet, at any rate," said Dr. Volante. "There are areas where it looks like there were tunnels or other caves that are caved in, but those predated our entry. There are several areas where geological scans suggest a weakness that, in the right circumstances, might give way. We've inserted anchoring and durasteel netting in these locations. The archway there was one such place." She pointed out the anchor points with a laser pointer she produced from her trousers pocket.

Dr. Volante pointed out a few other areas and described the efforts taken to prevent collapse. "Now -- are you three more interested in the historical discoveries, or were you going to take crystal samples to see if they are compatible for use in a lightsaber? Or is this more an exploratory journey?"

Balun Dashiell | Reid Brimarch​

 

[Reima Vitalis]

PILOT TYPE: RAF
CURRENT SCORE: 3 Lead | 0 Strikes (2 Lead from successful roll, +1 from RAF pilot type)
CURRENT LEG: Gilt Scatter
CHOSE LINE: Fly Casual

Reima's little slingshot maneuver shaved some time off her earliest checkpoint time, which was good news. It was early doors, of course, but still. Not too shabby. Her fingers danced across the controls, drew the engine power down as she emerged from Eos' shadow and into the bright of Adytum's starshine. The angle, too, as she followed the natural curve of the asteroid belt, threw the light back in her eyes. Unfiltered by the atmosphere of a world and softened only by the ultraviolet protections offered by her visor and the Delta-class's canopy.

In other words, not much.

A flash of gold seared across her vision and Reima struggled not to flinch away. She squinted against it, focusing more on caution than on speed due to the limited visibility. She had never been bounced out of the run before, though a few times she had been blinded and skimmed an asteroid too close here in the Gilt Scatter. Her gloved hands tightened on the throttle and she guided the craft through a sweeping turn, trying to dodge into the shadow of a larger asteroid, following it through its plane until it collided with another and they tumbled in opposing directions.

"Damn," Reima muttered, throttling up a touch to avoid the new route of the asteroids. Her fighter's shields sizzled as a few of the small pieces of asteroid shrapnel rained against them. Without the sensors, she couldn't tell whether she was actually clear of the asteroid, so she relied on what all fighter aces did, whether they admitted it or not: sheer dumb luck.

 

[Ayumi Pallopides]

The message was sent. Ayumi lowered her hands as she looked at the shopkeeper who stood near the register and she was paying. His voice coming out with a smile. "That's all." He began to bag the outfit she had and Ayumi gave a nod. "Yes, now tell me, do you have a place that sells appliances?" He said it and she smiled while he pointed. "Perfect." The shopkeeper pointed toward the far end of the district, past the row of clothing vendors and into a narrower passage where the lighting shifted from amber to a flat, utilitarian white. She took the bag from the counteras she turned toward the exit. The door slid open without sound and she stepped back into the corridor, the hum of the lower strata wrapping around her again.

The appliance shop was exactly where he had indicated, tucked between a spice vendor and an empty stall with its shutters drawn. Its sign was small, written in a script she did not read, but the window displayed what she needed. A row of compact units sat on floating shelves cooktops, water purifiers, a small refrigeration box no larger than her torso. All of them in matte metal finishes, no curves or unnecessary edges. She pushed through the door and a bell chimed once, sharp and brief. Inside, the air smelled of metal and coolant. Racks lined the walls, filled with components she recognized and others she did not. Power couplings. Filtration cartridges.

A row of heating elements stacked like coins. She walked slowly down the center aisle, running her fingers over nothing, just looking. A man stood behind the counter at the back, reading from a dataslate. He did not look up. She found what she wanted on the third shelf. A portable cooktop, flat and black, with four induction circles and a foldable stand. Next to it, a small preservation unit with a transparent front panel and adjustable temperature settings. She pulled both down and held them, one in each hand. The cooktop weighed almost nothing. The preservation unit had a solid heft to it, the kind of weight that suggested insulation and good seals.

Behind her, the man finally spoke. "Those are certified for ship power grids. Standard ports." She set them on the counter. The man set down his dataslate and began to ring them up without further comment. His movements were slow, deliberate. The register beeped once for each item. She placed her credit chip on the counter and waited. Ayumi turned as she looked aat him and spoke with a smile on herr face. "There is one thing I am wondering?" She said it with a small grin forming on her face while her hand was coming out of her belt with several credit chits. "How many matter catalysts do you have?"