Faction |TIC| Imperial Unity Gala

[Siv Kryze]

.​

NEW ALDERAAN​

Siv moved through the gathering with the quiet assurance of a warrior who'd stood in far more dangerous rooms than this. His armor, bearing the subtle marks of real use rather than parade-ground polish, caught the ambient light as he joined their conversation.

"Moff Selrik Lorcas ," he acknowledged with a slight tilt of his helmet - respectful but not deferential. "Your reputation for efficient governance precedes you. The Outer Rim could use more administrators who understand how to actually get things done." The compliment was genuine, though carefully non-specific.

Turning smoothly to the Neimoidian, his modulated voice remained professional. "Trade Monarch Lodd Grimmin , Siv Kryze, Warden of Concordia"

"Concordia's mining operations are expanding," he continued, his tone pragmatic. "We're evaluating potential trade partners who understand long-term investments over quick profits." The unspoken message was clear: Mandalorians weren't desperate, but they were open to serious discussions.

"What sectors is the Trade Federation currently prioritizing?" The question was posed neutrally, leaving room for either genuine negotiation or polite disengagement depending on their response.

His stance remained balanced - not aggressive, but immovable as bedrock. This wasn't a merchant seeking buyers; it was a Warden assessing whether these men were worth more of his time. The ball was in their court now.

 

[Narantuyaa Asther]

Delsin Shaw +Open

"Hmm a personal assistant then. One that can operate outside the rules to help expedite things along. Something to help your Mandalore achieve his goals far faster. Not to mention the plausible deniability that comes with being somewhat independent of the chain of command. And the flexibility of such a useful tool is bound to be advantangeous in any sort of situation."

Not like Narantuyaa would deny the ISS has done something similar if need be. There are advantages of using outside help to further Imperial goals. As long as that outside help did not turn to bite at their handler's hands. But with any rabid animal, they are to be put down swiftly. Nor did Narantuyaa object to the notion that her duty to the Imperial Confederation was a sort of contract. In its base form yes, it was. A contract between her and the government she served.

Narantuyaa raised an eyebrow at Delsin when the conversation turned to her, him asking what does she do for the Confederation.
"An officer is sharp. They hold the lives of the men and women under their command in their hands. Only the uneducated would view them as sacrifical pawns. An officer must be able to adapt quickly to a changing battlefield. To turn the tide in their favor. The Officer Academy makes your mind sharp.
Wit.."

Narantuyaa clicked her tongue. "It can be taught but not everyone can do it. Some are born with this talent, others are not. But all this to say that I am just a healthcare provider for the Confederation. A healthy nation, is a strong nation. Something I think you might agree with me on. Can't have sickness affecting your warriors yes? Otherwise it becomes a full blown pandemic, which can cripple any faction."

​

 

[Aether Verd]

Assets: Beskar'gam | Basilisk
Darksaber | Resolute Dawn​

NEW ALDERAAN

Aether’s expression didn’t shift much at first, but at Vanessa’s words, something flickered behind his eyes. A softening. Not surprise, but something near to appreciation.

“Thank you,” he said quietly, voice even but earnest. “It’s a hope I carry as well. Not for my sake. Not to outshine my father or any who came before. But for Mandalore.”

There was a pause, not for effect but thought, before he continued.

“We’re stable,” he said, answering her question with measured confidence. “There’s work ahead, always. But the most grievous wounds, those have begun to heal. We are no longer rebuilding in desperation. We are building with purpose.”

As a server passed, Aether reached out with a quiet motion, trading his empty glass for a fresh one. He gave a silent nod of thanks to the attendant before returning his gaze to Onrai.

“Loyalty is the foundation. I won’t dispute that. Nor the notion that the vision of one, when tempered by wisdom and held accountable by those they lead, can guide a people better than the whims of a thousand divided voices.” He swirled the drink once, considering.

“I appreciate your answer,” he said at last, eyes steady on hers. “You didn’t owe me one. But the fact that you offered it, in full, speaks volumes. About your experience. Your character. And what you’ve lived through.”

Just then, a shift in the air...small, but noticeable. Aether’s gaze tracked to the side as a new presence approached. Unfamiliar. Quietly potent.

He didn’t stare. Didn’t posture. Simply turned slightly to make room in their circle, ever the host. A polite nod was offered, neither guarded nor overly warm, just enough to acknowledge the stranger’s arrival with the respect due to anyone brave enough to step into such a conversation.​

Onrai , Her + Open

 

[Delsin Shaw]

Personal assistant? I guess one could say that. However, I was not nearly at his beck and call. It was a very heavily downplayed tone of what I did. At the very least, felt slightly disingenuous. However, I would not let it affect me. Just lightly smiling as she continued in her expulsion of what I did. Moreover, the plausible deniability I lend by being a glorified Mercenary Advisor. She clearly understood what it meant now that it had been explained. However, what caught me up, was her continuing.

Officers were held to a higher standard. Absolutely. Mentioning that the soldiers underneath her were not pawns to be lost because they were pawns, but to use them as they were intended. As vital pieces on the board of any game in warfare. It made sense. As much as it could be. However, what I did not expect was her proclaiming to be a Healthcare provider. No official title, no MOS no nothing. Just a short description of what it was. Very short and to the point. A slight tilt of the head as she finished. Making note of a healthy nation is a strong one.

"True. Any plague can be the death of such. Naturally, this health care, what kind of care is it? A mental plague? Virulent? Systemic?"

Quinn Varanin | Aether Verd | Nolle Tron | Squesha | Taregh Garon | Valery Noble | Allyson Locke | Onrai | Siv Kryze | Ze'bast Verd | Adean Castor

 

[Onrai]

Speaking with: Aether Verd Her Open
Tags: Narantuyaa Asther Taregh Garon Adean Castor Ze'bast Verd Delsin Shaw Siv Kryze Quinn Varanin Allyson Locke Valery Noble Nolle Tron Selrik Lorcas Lor'Vekka Lodd Grimmin Marlon Sularen

As the masked Anti-Force entity listened to the Mandalore's response, appreciating his demeanor - it had been years since she had experienced a peaceful conversation with one that lacked the underlying elements of hostility - a familiar sense yet again raised itself. Vanessa observed a familiar face. It was the one who yet reminded her of her former apprentice from decades past, one who seemed more than surprised that she was still around.

"Good to see you again." She said to the conversation's new arrival. "I will say there's no need for old tricks, let alone that they would even work. Unity is the focus here, not scheming against each other. It's best all under the Imperial banner remember that." A sliver of the greater consciousness within the manifestation that was Vanessa grew somewhat higher on alert. Perhaps she expected another blade through the belly, though it would only give a laugh instead of a much more catastrophic set of circumstances.

Vanessa raised an eyebrow in response to the statement of Aether that rebuilding efforts were proceeding. "Perhaps I can be of assistance to you insofar as rebuilding your capital world goes." She said. "I have previously restored three devastated worlds into agro-industrial paradises, as well as an entire star system. I would be more than willing to do such for you - to both restore Mandalore, climate and capacity, as well as aid you in exploiting the bounties of the other eight worlds and seventy-two moons in your system."

She listened carefully to Aether's response, smiling once he concluded. "My experience and character have varied in many ways over the years. I have lost and gained so much - and developed from the naivete I once possessed as a young darksider so many decades ago. As it stands, positive relationships between our powers would certainly be of mutual benefit - and admittedly of benefit to my own agendas."

Silently, she wondered what his thoughts were on the ancient history of his people.

 

[Her]

---

---

"...At some point before the Omega War, the mysterious Dark Lord of the Sith (who had formed the One Sith) was betrayed and subsequently killed by one of his followers. Many Sith launched their bid to take the vacant title and fill in the vacuum of power. Pandeima was one of these figures, but before she can make a bid to take the mantle, Ayra betrayed her and stabbed her master in the back. With Pandeima's death Ayra took her place as the Sith Master and claimed the honorific of Darth. As a consequence of betraying Pandeima she was later exiled from the One Sith which resulted in Ayra disappearing from public life. Her disappearance, coupled with the wealth she had accumulated with the firesale of Imperial assets, may have been a contributing factor into the liquidation of her stock on Chandrila..."
-- Excerpts from the historical information of The Order of the Sith Lords.

---

New Alderaan, Ash Worlds, Outer Rim Territories;
New Aldera, The Imperial Citadel, Grand Ballroom.
Tags: Onrai | Taregh Garon | Narantuyaa Asther | Aether Verd | Ze'bast Verd | Siv Kryze | Delsin Shaw

---

Crimson eyes concealed beneath the dark rims of a pair of shades eyed MAND'ALOR THE IRON for a moment. The upper lip curled momentarily revealing perfect incisors which were unnaturally white in the faint luminescence of light as they stood in the ambience of the ballroom. Her smiled to the mask-- to the indomitable visard of the best warriors in the galaxy. Despite there differences Her could agree with Onrai on this: the acquisition of an alliance with the Mandalorians was a desirable outcome. After all they shared mutual enemies and while it was Imperial officers who may have lit up their territory and fired the guns which made martyrs out of their warriors there is a distinct difference in this IMPERIAL CONFEDERATION in that there were no Sith pulling on their strings anymore.

Or so they thought.

"Good to see you again... I will say there's no need for old tricks, let alone that they would even work. Unity is the focus here, not scheming against each other. It's best all under the Imperial banner remember that."

The smile disappeared as Her finished her admiration of MANA'DLOR'S helmet to look upon the face of a woman who died half-a-century ago. As they met each others gaze Her could almost hear the smashing of glasteel beneath the veneer of a shriek and the raised voices of lesser beings whom called themselves One Sith as they vied for control over an empire that would capitulate to in-fighting in just a few short years since the annexation of the Old Republic.

As Vanessa returned to her conversation with Aether, Her did not reply to what the ghost had said to her in greeting. Beneath the hat that she wore and behind the pair of shades she was content to listen. Underneath that sombre expression, as the conversation continued around them, Her found herself looking between the other assortment of characters who had been brought here to this venue. When there was a lull among the talking did Her introduce herself to them all:

"I am the Warden. A pleasure to meet you all," Her lied through her teeth.

---

 

[Narantuyaa Asther]

Delsin Shaw +Open

"Must every healthcare professional be a specialist?" Narantuyaa asked in an amused tone. "But to satisfy your curious nature, Advisor Shaw, I am more of a general practitioner. Whether the plague affects the mind or the body, I am there to help ensure everyone affected will make a speedy and full recovery. Maintaining the health of my Confederation is a great honor, and a vital one if that. No matter infection may try to plague our people, I am there to ensure its defeat."

Narantuyaa continued on in a neutral tone. "I do apologize if you were hoping for something more extravagant. That you were somehow speaking with the Hand of the Empress herself, or even the right hand to a Grand Moff. I am officer yes, but I have been to so many of these galas and parties, that the etiquette has rubbed off on me. I have rubbed elbows with the elites of the Imperial Confederation many times."

​

 

[Valery Noble]

​

Outfit: dress

Valery's smile deepened with the kind of warmth she rarely showed in rooms like this. Allyson's touch lingered like a memory. Or maybe a challenge, and for just a moment, the rest of the gala faded. Her wife looked stunning, infuriatingly so, and Valery didn't miss the way that disheveled charm made it hard to focus.

"I should be the one telling you that," she murmured, her voice dipping just enough to make the words personal. "If we weren't here on business, I'd be making that a problem." Still, when Allyson delivered the line about being a hopelessly in-love married couple, Valery's brow arched.

She rolled her eyes. "Please." A beat. Then a quieter, reluctant smile. "...Fine. Maybe you're not completely wrong."

With a nudge of her shoulder against Allyson's, Valery allowed herself the briefest indulgence before the veil of poise returned. They turned together, the practiced rhythm of their movement smooth and unhurried as they approached Sularen and his aide. Her eyes flicked up to scan him, polished, rigid, reeking of ambition, and her smile stayed polite.

Then came the interruption.

She clocked the towering figure the moment he began his approach. Inquisitor. Not one she knew, but the bearing was unmistakable. Valery's body eased into readiness, her posture still elegant, but just a shade more alert. The moment he asked her to come with him, her smile thinned. Not in hostility, but in resistance.

"I'm afraid you'll have to be a bit more specific," she said, her tone perfectly civil but cool beneath the surface. "Security issues tend to affect both of us." Her eyes didn't waver from his. "What's the problem?"

She didn't move.

Not until she had an answer.

Allyson Locke Marlon Sularen Taregh Garon ​

 

[Selrik Lorcas]

​

It was always unwise to assume that people knew everything on a galaxy as vast as theirs. At least the Trade Monarch was wise enough to keep his feelings on Selrik's lack of recognition to himself. Selrik had no history with the organizations that the Trade Federation had worked with. The Risen Empire had remained largely in the shadows for quite a long time since the Imperial Remnant had been destroyed by the Sith. To his knowledge, they hadn't worked with the Trade Federation either. Thus, expecting him to know every Neimoidian there was, well, just didn't make sense if one knew him.

That said, it did surprise him how many knew him, considering he'd only made a few public broadcasts himself.

"Yes, the Confederation could certainly use some advancement in the industrial sector," he said, his eyes drifting to the approaching Mandalorian as he continued to speak to the Neimoidian. "I know the Instrop sector would certainly welcome some development in that area. We've an armory and a deep space shipyard that could use some modernizing."

The Mandalorian completed their approach and offered a dip of the head. Selrik just watched them. He was still uneasy about their presence. There was a long history between Mandalorian's and the Empire. Some of it was good, some of it was bad. He viewed them with distrust in large part because of their history of violent conquest. Rapid, violent conquest for the sake of conquest was far from something he found intriguing. If anything, he viewed it as a threat to Imperial sovereignty. Thus, all Mandalorian's were viewed with some modicum of suspicion, especially so when they were operating using the name Empire.

"Your flattery is noted but won't get you far with me. I don't care to be touted up for my own sake and I don't care for people who do. Additionally, this area of space is referred to as The Slice, not the Outer Rim. You'll have to go further south, closer to Sith territory to find that sector of space."

The distinct feeling of wrongness washed over him. Not the kind that came through the Force, because he wasn't affected by such things thanks to the old voidstone dust tattoo he had. No, more like his ears picking up something and a feeling in his gut that told him he needed to keep his eyes open for something that was about to happen. Potentially. Not with the two he was talking to, but somewhere else. His body became more rigid as he straightened and lowered his glass, eyes scanning the vicinity.

OUTFIT: Moff Standard | GEAR: Blaster Pistol | COMPANIONS: Imperial Sentinels x4
TAGS: Lodd Grimmin | Siv Kryze | Valery Noble | Allyson Locke | Taregh Garon ​

 

[Taregh Garon]

---

He'd thought she would be reluctant to accompany him. This wasn't unexpected. No one wanted to be lead away by an Inquisitor, even if they returned it could raise certain questions.

While her tone remained civil he could feel the coolness that accompanied it, their eyes had locked as though contest of wills that neither would relinquish outright. Despite the imposing figure that he cut he remained neutral, she'd asked a valid question and given the Gala occurring around them Taregh understood how an overreaction could be perceived negatively for the Empire. Every problem had a solution though.

A stillness existed between them then he replied...

"An anomaly with your biometrics scans. Probably nothing but considering the function of this event and those in attendance it is the preference of security to take no chances."

...his words were accompanied by a thin smile, one might say a forced one which made him seem all the more intimidating to a regular onlooker.

A Gala, in the grand ballroom of the imperial citadel. It wasn't beyond reasonable to think that security precautions such as the ones that he'd spoken about had been taken. Even Marlon Sularen , Supreme Commander of the Imperial Confederation or Selrik Lorcas, the Grand Moff might not know every measure the Imperial Secret Service had taken. Only the head of the ISS would know without a doubt.

Shi'ido, Clawdites, etc. Infiltrators or assassins could be anywhere, anyone.

Likewise there was the fact that with such concerns levied to brush them off could create more suspicion on the one doing so.

Waiting for her response his eyes swayed over towards Allyson Locke , Tai Corde briefly with a gaze that seemed to assess her. Once that was done his gaze returned to Valery Noble , Sera Corde

 

[Allyson Locke]

//: Valery Noble //: Marlon Sularen //: Taregh Garon //:
//: Attire //:

Tai raised a brow when another man approached them. It was easy to follow his eyes—Sera was his target. He moved in closer, addressing them with politeness, something Tai hadn't expected, but she didn't like the way he looked at her wife.

Unlike Sera, Tai had used Mechu Deru to adjust her bioscan, making her clearance pass flawless.

The Shadows excelled at infiltration; they were far beyond the simplicity of traditional assassins.

Maybe Tai had assumed too much. Her eyes flicked to Sera, pushing the thought aside. Sera was good at what she did.

Her expression stayed composed as her gaze shifted between the inquisitor and Sera. Slowly, she stepped forward, closing the space between her wife and the security official.

"Like my wife said—if there's an issue, we'll handle it. Together."

The hand resting on the small of Sera's back shifted, now firmer. Possessive. Protective.

"What was the anomaly?" she asked, taking another step forward, now positioning herself so the man could barely see Sera.

Her hand slipped from Sera's back to her hand, lacing fingers and offering a small squeeze—a silent reassurance. A reminder to the Grandmaster of the Jedi Order: I've got you. It was almost laughable when Tai thought about it. Sera didn't need protecting. But to sell the illusion? The Corellian played her part well.

She exhaled quietly, letting her features soften as she nodded at the officer.

"I understand you're doing your job. My wife has some health issues—so please, what were these anomalies?"

Tai's eyes narrowed, just enough to show the edge of frustration beneath her composed exterior.

"If it's potentially nothing, why are you embarrassing my wife and myself? We're only here to make business contacts."

Her gaze shifted toward the Supreme Commander—the man had approached them with civility, unlike the inquisitor, who had interrupted unprompted.

Her next words were directed at Marlon.

"Supreme Commander, my apologies—I had hoped we could begin proper introductions and explore potential business. But it seems your Inquisitor believes it's more important to pester my wife with... potentially nothing."

Adjusting her jacket with a deliberate, collected motion, Tai turned to Sera, her expression softening again.

"Are you okay?"

The Corellian's smile was gentle—meant only for her.

"We might have to take our leave if it's necessary. I won't allow you to continue harassing my Sera over something so trivial."

 

[Aether Verd]

Assets: Beskar'gam | Basilisk
Darksaber | Resolute Dawn​

NEW ALDERAAN

The smile was met with a nod.

Not warm, not cold. Just polite acknowledgment: a courtesy afforded to any who stepped forward in peace.

Aether’s brow, however, did rise slightly at Vanessa’s words. “No need for old tricks.” “Unity is the focus.” There was weight behind those phrases. A shared past, perhaps. A warning dressed as civility. Whatever it was, it had nothing to do with him. And so he made no remark.

Instead, his gaze shifted back to the woman before him, listening as she spoke of restoring Mandalore. Not just the surface, but the system itself. Its worlds. Its moons. Its potential.

He considered that for a moment...quietly.

“I’ll admit, I’m impressed,” Aether said at last, voice even as ever. “Not many outside our borders know how many worlds and moons fall within Mandalore’s direct embrace. Fewer still speak of them with such familiarity.”

He took a breath, his words respectful, but resolute.

“The work of restoring Mandalore must be done by Mandalorian hands. It’s more than reconstruction, it’s reclamation. Identity. Purpose. But if you have equipment or assets you’re willing to sell, the Empire would gladly explore that. Tools may be bought. But the shaping of our world must come from within.”

A brief pause.

“You spoke of mutual benefit between our nations...of positive relationships. Is that a sentiment shared by the Confederation as a whole?” he asked, his gaze shifting between Vanessa and the newcomer to make clear the question was meant for them both. “Or is it a perspective you hold alone?”

Then, his attention turned fully to the newcomer.

“The pleasure is all mine,” Aether said, tone dipping into something faintly warmer.

He inclined his head, ever so slightly.

“And tell me, Warden, what role do you play within the Confederation?”​

Onrai , Her + Open

 

[Delsin Shaw]

"Oh no. Specialization was just the icing on the cake as it were. A general practitioner vying as a Jack of all trades in the medical field is perfectly fine. Such as a biologist being superb in their field, but failing elsewhere. You are the best Biologist, out of all the chemists. And the best Chemist of all Biologists."

General Health Care? A worthy thing to be a part of. It was not as romanticized in holo-films like some warrior who cleaved their way through battlefields, or an admiral who could find that hole in the stars to get his fleet through. Everyone had a role to play, and in many cases, it was those who ran things behind the scenes who would be doing more of the work. Such as making sure that everyone was healthy could absolutely make or break an empire. Vaccinations against strains of deadly viruses and plagues. Hell, that is why the 400 years of darkness was caused. A plague.

"To be frank, I sought not that of Hands, or Eyes, or Voice of any Emperor. I find them to be, shall we say tightly strung? Pontificating of such grandeur that the established empire parades itself to be. They may see the larger picture, but fail to see the smallest of details that could cause the crumbling from within. They lose sight of the Non-Commissioned Officers who are well below them. That loss of such can inflate ones bias to what is truly happening."

I shrugged my shoulders lightly towards the Field Commander. Her position was right in between those who were higher up, and those below her in rank. She could still see those below her and was able to advocate for them to get what they need, but standing high enough on their shoulders to reach the upper Field Grades and be the voice of the general population of their military structure. Every person plays an important part. And to deny such was the death of any military.

"By that metric, Field Commander, what do you know or surmise of the Mandalorian's Empire? As someone who is towards the center of the structure of Military health and wellness, You might have a clearer picture of how failings can be found."

Quinn Varanin | Aether Verd | Nolle Tron | Squesha | Taregh Garon | Valery Noble | Allyson Locke | Onrai | Siv Kryze | Ze'bast Verd | Adean Castor

 

[Lodd Grimmin]

Selrik Lorcas Siv Kryze

Lodd closely observed the tone of voice used by Moff Selrik Lorcas to gain insight into his thoughts, as the Trade Federation's proposal represented more than just a bid for power; it was a direct attempt to influence and challenge Supreme Commander Marlon Sularen , a persistent obstacle for corporations everywhere.

Thankfully, Moff Lorcas was not mired in the idealism that plagued those from the former Dark Empire; he recognized that credits served as the true weapon of the galaxy, rather than force orders, dark lords, or the occasional mad-witch from Dathomir.

"Ah...an armory and deep space shipyard are no challenge for the likes of Federation Engineers and it will be completed on schedule I assure you incase the Imperial Confederation marches off to war soon with a major power." Lodd spoke in a neutral tone, not wanting to stereotype that the Imperials consistently challenged the Alliance and would require equipment to sustain such a prolonged conflict.

The Federation would gladly provide support to maintain its competitive advantage in the galactic market. Warden Siv Kryze quickly interjected, making it clear that they were keenly interested in the conglomerate's activities.

Having a customer, especially a Mandalorian, would significantly enhance efforts to forge connections with the rising Mandalorian Empire, although their treaty with the Alliance caused him some concern, as he had mentioned prior to this event.

"Ah, Warden Kryze you honor me with your presence here." Lodd said with soft coy before continuing.

"The Trade Federation as you know is prioritizing many sectors from the Outer Rim, to the Core Worlds, to Hutt Space. Though worlds with untapped minerals, underused factories, or key points for trade lanes are what we look for. Is Concord Dawn such a world?" He asked in a curious sort of way to avoid being entrapped in a discussion that was unfavorable to him and the Purse-Worlds.

 

[Siv Kryze]

.​

NEW ALDERAAN​

​

"Concord Dawn?" Siv's helmet tilted slightly, considering the Neimoidian's inquiry. "It is a world of warriors, not warehouses. But Concordia—our sister moon—holds the industrial potential you seek. Shipyards hungry for modernization, refineries ready for expansion, and a position along trade lanes that would make any merchant fleet take notice." His modulated voice remained even, but carried the weight of opportunity. "If it's investment you want, look there."

Siv listened attentively, his Nite Owl helmet turning fractionally between the Moff Selrik Lorcas and Lodd Grimmin as they spoke. When he interjected, his modulated voice carried the measured tone of a businessman, yet with the underlying firmness of a warrior-statesman.

"A three-way arrangement would serve all parties," he began smoothly. "Moff Lorcas requires modernized shipyards in Instrop Sector. The Trade Federation seeks profitable ventures. And Concordia..." A deliberate pause. "Well, we have the ideal location to facilitate both."

He activated a wrist projector, displaying a star map highlighting the trade routes connecting all three regions.

"Consider this: Federation engineers upgrade Concordia's orbital docks with the latest refineries and fabrication systems. Those same upgrades can be replicated in Instrop at reduced cost, with Mandalorian security ensuring timely delivery." His visor turned to Selrik. "Your deep space facilities would gain modern capabilities without the usual corporate strings."

Back to Lodd, his tone turning pragmatic: "In return, the Federation receives preferred access to Mandalorian trade routes and a fifteen percent reduction in protection tariffs for any shipments bound for Imperial or Confederate space."

A subtle shift in stance included both men equally in the proposal. "This isn't charity - it's strategic synergy. Concordia becomes the industrial hub. The Federation expands its reach. And the Moff's forces get upgraded infrastructure without compromising sovereignty."

He deactivated the projection. "The framework is sound. The question is whether both of you recognize the mutual advantage here."

The unspoken message was clear - this was business, not conquest. But Siv's lingering gaze at both men carried the quiet reminder that Mandalorians always knew the value of what they offered... and the cost of refusing it.

​

 

[Onrai]

Speaking with: Aether Verd Her Open
Tags: Narantuyaa Asther Taregh Garon Adean Castor Ze'bast Verd Delsin Shaw Siv Kryze Quinn Varanin Allyson Locke Valery Noble Nolle Tron Selrik Lorcas Lor'Vekka Lodd Grimmin Marlon Sularen

The Warden. That was an interesting way for the woman to introduce herself. Whether Vanessa's presuppositions of Her's identity were correct or not, she was a wild card and the deeper consciousness of Onrai wondered whether or not she would, in the future, perhaps seek to subvert the concept of the Confederation towards her own purposes.

Vanessa's attention returned to the Mandalore. "I am under no implication that an outside force should come in and give you paradise. That said, I would be more than willing to perhaps plot out a proposal which could be approved and put into place by the various forces you have within the Mandalore sector, to begin the process of such an extensive overhaul of the system. From there we could discuss using the resources I have left over from the transformation of Bright Jewel that could be repurposed to such a beneficial use." She smiled, still seeking a way to keep her foot in the door a tad more directly than merely sales.

"The Confederation does seek positive relationships as a whole, yes." She said. "If it didn't, then the entire concept of Imperial reintegration would be useless. My own personal hopes and goals revolve around the Empire not going out of its way to have enemies - certainly not enemies who could yet be allies in the future conflicts to come." Who those future conflicts would be with was another thing to consider entirely as her eyes scanned the gala. There was something off here, and it wasn't her.

That said, she had no intentions of leaving a perfectly good conversation just to go snooping.

 

[Narantuyaa Asther]

Delsin Shaw +Open

Now Narantuyaa was being asked for her opinion about the Mandalorian Empire. Her expression seemed to reflect that she was deep in thought, like if she was trying to pick her words carefully. Then Narantuyaa looked at Delsin before giving a slight shrug of her shoulders. "I know little of your Empire, Advisor Shaw. Other than you are the next cycle of a long cycle of Mandalorian factions that tend to rise and fall. Only time will tell if you will be different than the others or fade away into obscurity as well."

Narantuyaa gave a content sigh. "Though I will say this. Do what you can to ensure your faction's long term viability. If you truly do value your duty and honor to your Mandalore, protect him. From threats both outside and within. Betrayal never comes from your enemies. That is my advice. Keep your Mandalore's mental state stable."

​

 

[Ivalyn Yvarro]

Fashionably late that's what they always say. Grand Vizier Ivalyn Yvarro almost did not arrive to the Unity Gala. She almost preferred to stay on Dosuun given the circumstances. Yet the words of her father echoed in her mind, she needed to meet with those beyond the Blackwall. Forge alliances, and work as the scalpel when it mattered most. She and her beau, Merryn arrived well after the pomp and circumstance. The party was lively with a host of unique characters, she now among them.

A quick survey found there to be a number of Mandalorians, and representatives of the Sith Order. Ivalyn and her beau were dressed elegantly, and wore the Commonwealth's sigil as opposed to the Sith Order's. Ivalyn wore something tailored, the dress was an off-the-shoulder column gown. Silver threaded, midnight blue velvet, custom designed by an atelier in Avalonia. The gown hugged her frame with an understated authority, its structure evoked both a military silhoutte and royal formalwear. The gown's dress had a neckline dip that was tasteful. The Commonwealth's sigil accented by silver embroidery resembled stylized starlines from an old Commonwealth astrogation chart. The sleeves were fitted and extended into sharp cuffs over the hands, lined with a sheer silk underlayer printed faintly with an Alderaanian floral motif, a rare concession to softness.

Ivalyn's cape trailed behind her as she walked with Merryn on her arm. It was a detachable sort, of an ashen-white organza, semi-transparent and weightless. The cape is cut longer than the gown, naturally, the trails were a full meter behind her. Its edges subtly glowing with threadlike circuitry, a Commonwealth tech-fashion that pulsed faintly with her bio-signature. She kept the jewelry minimal, a simple pair of diamond-cut boreal crystal studs, a gift from Merryn. The set had been polished with phrik, and cold forged by Needani artisans. The bracelet, minimalist data-cuff, sheathed in mother-of-pearl lacquer, doubling as a diplomatic access tool. Her rings, one on the left ring finger, a band of braided platinum with a black alloy that was either an engagement or something else.

Hair pulled back into a coiled chignon, bound with durasteel pins shaped like stylized starbursts. Her make elegant as always, soft and neutral colors. She whispered to Merryn a thought of if it was too late to turn around head back home. She knew better though, Taeli Raaf, worked hard to get the couple their passes through the Blackwall for the event. It would be a waste if they came home without a few new contacts.

Merryn Sellek | Open to Interaction​

 

[Darth Malum of House Marr]

Attire​

Bogan, he hated Imperials.

His grandfather had hated them too, before the late Lord Marr had been murdered in what would be called the Third Imperial Civil War. He brought the burgundy liquid, swirling within his glass goblet to his lips, taking in the veritable poisoned chalice, and murmuring with underhanded appreciation for the fine vintage.

No... it was not as if he hated all Imperials.

There had been those who had followed their oaths, followed in leal fealty to their Sith Lords despite the actions and ideology of their peers, the blighted New Imperial Order that had played perhaps the greatest role in the fall of the Tenth.

That New Imperial Order, that these very imperials were the latest of a long line of heirs of.

How he so hated them.

Parasites that dug their strength out of the power of their Sith masters, arrogant to believe their power to at all theirs, usurpers of an imperial legacy that far predated them, and far outstripped them... idealogues and sophists of a deceitful, falsified existence. The liquid burning down his throat, hardly provided him any relief to his thoughts, stood as he was, draped from head to toe under the colours of his House... of the Sith.

It was little wonder that the sons and daughters of traitors and betrayers gave him such a wide berth. Though perhaps that was simply as he shared the face of one of the greatest Sith to have lived.

They mattered little regardless, as often it was his duty these days to put his feelings aside, to bite his tongue, to negotiate, compromise, for in the end, this story only ended with those once servants of the Sith, their co-equal partisans, accomplices, and colloborators returning to the fold. It was not in accomplishment of that vaunted goal, that wiping away of their shared shame born at Bastion, under the rule of a Twice-Failed Tyrant, that had him here.

That had brought a Dark Councillor of the Eleventh Sith Empire to the hallowed halls of New Aldeeran.

No... instead it was...

...Red eyes passed through the crowd, hidden behind the replica mask of his ancestor's make and model, a lock of silver hair, reaching not even to her shoulders, grasping his attention with their vice grip, as so often she did... she was beautiful... she always was...

...Regret pooled in his heart, shame in his stomach, as he kept crimson orbs still attached ever firmly to the Princess of Eshan. Duty, duty, always surpassed all in the end. It was for duty that he had come here, not duty as Lord of the Tsis'Kaar, nor as Dark Councillor... but as the masked black knight who had sworn fealty to the Empress of the Sith.

Who promised, that in her goddaughter's travels into the heart of their once enemy.

...That not a single droplet of harm would befall her.

...Why did she always steal his breath?

He shook the ill-thoughts, the questions that plagued him, that sombreness that scorned him, for even in the hustle and bustle of the celebration's floor.

His hairs stood at attention, as danger seemed to whistle through the air.

Conflict... sprouting out from one near hi-... near Qu-... near Lady Varanin.

He narrowed his eyes, as he felt the comfortable presence of a beskar hilt at his side, a promise of a reckoning if anything should happen to her...

His legs took control without his mind's will, he was lithe, nimble, quick, all the traits valuable to an assassin, to a warrior, strumming his feet along with the beat of the room's music, as a dancer he swung through the presence of stranger, and stranger alike, caution was the word of the day, as they were all quick to evade him.

An advantage he did not seek, but an advantage all the well appreciated.

As he found himself near.

And then... his courage failed him.

...It had been too long since they had last spoken.

...For all that his heart hammered in his chest, as much as his lips dried...

...Why had matters between them never been easy?

...Had that been why he always found himself back to her?

He remained his distance, watching, ready to intervene, but locked in indecision, that question that plagued all learned men... to march forward, or to retreat back.

Quinn Varanin Lor'Vekka Nolle Tron
Mentioned: Darth Carnifex

 

[Her]

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New Alderaan, Ash Worlds, Outer Rim Territories;
New Aldera, The Imperial Citadel, Grand Ballroom.
Tags: Aether Verd | Onrai

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Beneath the veneer of polite conversation and the aesthetic of the gala-- luxurious, wealthy, orderly, distinctly Imperial-- there was the unmistakable air of tension surrounding the Warden Primus as she glared beneath the rim of her hat upon the anti-force entity which called itself Onrai-- the ghost of Circe Savan. Had Darth Ayra been deceived by her Sith Master's powers in the dark side? Or was it what THE NOMAD had been searching for?

As burgeoning questions began to form in their mind Her contemplated another, more disturbing question.

Was this spectre of the past still a believer in the Rule of Two?

"You spoke of mutual benefit between our nations...of positive relationships. Is that a sentiment shared by the Confederation as a whole?"

Conversation continued to flow distracting the undercover Dark Lord. Her crimson gaze averted themselves from Onrai back onto MAND'ALOR to reply:

"No," Her admitted.

The truth was often a bed for the lie.

"There are some among the Confederation which recognizes the potential of acquiring an alliance with the greatest warriors in the galaxy. Then there are others who remember that it was Imperial officers whom followed the orders of Sith Lords who desecrated the Mandalorian and turned them into martyrs. What you will find in this quadrant of space is a pocket of Imperialism which seeks to break free from the veneer of Sith dominance and interlinked histories to the past."

"This is particularly true after what they did to Tion."

"The pleasure is all mine... And tell me, Warden, what role do you play within the Confederation?"

"I am a member of the Commission for the Establishment of Civilian Interests colloquially referred to as the C.O.M.E.C.I. Under the umbrella of this civilian government I formed the Imperial Corrections Directorate-- I.C.D-- to deal with the insurgency and rise in criminality in Imperial territory which came about following the demise of the Empire of the Lost."

"The Confederation does seek positive relationships as a whole, yes... If it didn't, then the entire concept of Imperial reintegration would be useless. My own personal hopes and goals revolve around the Empire not going out of its way to have enemies - certainly not enemies who could yet be allies in the future conflicts to come."

Her doubted that. There was a history which stretched back to the 830s when the Sith Empire first revealed itself and began it's invasion of the Old Republic which would prove to be a stopping block in acquiring joint interests and partnerships between both sides in the modern day.

While these Imperials-- each belonging to three different but distinct remnants banded together under the rule of Liraeth Deschart-- shared the same sentiment that they were not "like" those whom still served the Sith, Her guessed that there would certainly be those in the Mandalorian Empire who did not care for such distinction given the past.

It may have been a Sith Lord who gave the order but it was almost certainly an Imperial hand which pulled the trigger on a warrior or fired a ship's salvo upon a Mandalorian ship or world. Politicians from COMECI (or members of the Imperial Ruling Council) could spend hours debating or arguing against the notion that they weren't "like" the Sith-Imperial juntas which made up the militaries and naval armadas which loomed beyond the veil of the BLACKWALL and they would still not turn the head of the Mandalorians.

There was too much bad blood even to try and forgive those who were trying to break away from the past to create a new future of IMPERIALISM in the galaxy.

"I could spent the next ten minutes talking about how the Sith Order destroyed an Imperial world called Tion just two years ago, or how the Empire Reborn-- which was formed after the capitulation of the Dark Empire-- were led astray by a Dark Lord of the Sith and their New Sith Order as they lost the Core Wars to the Alliance and N.J.O, or how the New Imperial Order turned their guns upon Sith Lords during the Second Great Hyperspace War," Her said to Aether and Onrai as she brought up examples of how certain sects of the IMPERIAL REMNANT turned onto their shared adversaries in the form of the SITH ORDER.

"For every example or route of argumentation to show how "we" are different to "them"-- to the men and women who serve the military, naval and industrial complexes in Sith space, under the veneer of an Imperial uniform and identity-- a Mandalorian would match me with tales which dwarf anything I could bring to bear, and all under the idea that for every time "we" have turned against the Sith for self-gain or preservation it was the Mandalorian who fought them for something greater."

"Justice, revenge, the good fight... Rarely was it an actual Sith Lord that the Mandalorian destroyed or was destroyed by. It was almost always a man wearing the uniforms and ideals not unlike ours here in confederation space."

Turning her gaze from Aether to Onrai, Her gave their challenge. "Would you accept the helping hand of the Confederation if you knew all of that?"

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