Ask Metal Hearts

[Darth Caelestis]

Antonia Marshall's Villa was rather beautiful for an industrial world, it could easily fit on any number of more lush and vibrant planets around Sith Space. Artorigas looked over the complex through the glass of the cockpit of the 'Wyvern', he looked down at his co-pilot and servant Cydric. "How are the scans?" He asked. "They look as expected Mi 'lord, there is some security as we thought but nothing the three of you can't handle if need be." The man spun around to look at Artorigas "Good, keep the ship warm just encase." He finished before heading towards the main living area of the ship.

He was not alone on this a Master, Student duo had joined him. He smiled at the thought of being the Third Wheel on his own mission, but he had worked with Xeno before and they had gotten along well and worked together rather efficiently so he was not to concerned about the added aspect of his Master in the mix as well. As this was a show of grandeur an effort to make Antonia Marshall side with the Sith and bring with her the planet of Edussa Artorigas had forgone his Sith robes and instead opted for the more regal noble robes of his house. With a little convincing from Cydric he had also ditched the mask, he did not need to frighten the women he needed to coerce her, if she needed frightening he was sure Xeno could handle that.

Lightsaber dangling at his hip he walked into the living quarters hoping to not interrupt anything to serious between the master and apprentice.

@Scoobert @Forsythe Crowholde

 

[Darth Draugr]

This was going to be an important mission. Xeno had his mind set on the interrogation he was ready to apply. Whether the approach would be subtle or intimidating he was ready. The Zabrak was relaxed on the couch seat, and enjoying a glass of patron. Xeno had been wearing a classy suit to show that he fits in with the high class standards. Fitting in was important, so he would do his very best to keep up with the social class.

He had been waiting on Artorigas to finish dressing himself and to meet he and his master in the main living quarters. A decent place they were in. It's no castle though it'll do for now. The mission was to commence soon and all Xeno knew was that the target was Antonia Marshall. She had the deciding vote. The Sith needed that vote. Only thing needed was to persuade her to side with the Sith. Too easy. Especially if she gets aggressive.

The night was setting in, and the anticipation was great. Another mission for the glorious Sith was one thing that Xeno truly loved to hear. He couldn't have asked for a better party to go out persuading with other than Artorigas and Hrist. An acquaintance and a hidden love. It couldn't get much better than that.

@Braden Drake @Forsythe Crowholde

 

[Saragnayan]

Malicia had lost her place on the Council, seized by Darth Stolas himself after the ball she had organized ended in a bloodbath and the decimation of her own cult.

Having no prior knowledge about the former Sith Lord's ties to the Cadre Project, Hrist would've risen to Malicia's defense. From one Cadre sibling to another, so to speak. But the Marauder remained blissfully ignorant of the connection, and if she knew she probably wouldn't care anyway. Had Malicia found out that Hrist's father was a former Cadre Master, she probably would have killed the old man. But they were all unaware that they were tied by that singular Project in the past, so no actions were made – and maybe none would ever be.

Hrist– no, the Mandalorian Sith known as Saragnayan sat across Xeno, her student. She was clad in her stolen Mandalorian armor, and was sipping on her own drink using a straw. The Marauder had to keep up appearances – so far no one except Xeno knew the face behind the helmet, and she was intent to keep it that way for the time being. As such, she had reminded her precious student to call her by her alias instead of her own given name.

The helmeted head lifted to gaze at the spot where the Acolyte Artorigas Wessex would soon appear into, the T-visor meeting the human's gaze. The two Acolytes have dressed their best, and Saragnayan wouldn't let their efforts go to waste by taking the lead. Wessex, as she had learned, had taken the initiative to spearhead this mission so she was lenient enough to let him take the lead. She most probably looked out of place once she stood beside the two, but the Marauder card about their mission more than her own appearance.

"Ready to conduct business, Acolyte Wessex?" she would ask Artorigas, helmet as impassive as ever as Saragnayan finally rose to her feet. Placing her now empty drink on the table, the Marauder inclined her head politely at the human before gesturing a hand between her and her student. "Acolyte Brogroo and myself are at your disposal. Now, shall we proceed?"

@Braden Drake @Scoobert

 

[Darth Caelestis]

He smiled at the pair as he entered, luckily he had not interrupted anything between the pair. The Marauder Saragnayan was an interesting character to say the least. She had painted a rather large target on her back with that armour, the fact she flaunted it so, meant she was either extremely confident or extremely naïve. Artorigas hoped it was the former as he could not deal with someone like that on this mission, yes she was a higher rank than him, but that meant nothing. He had met many a Sith in higher ranking positions that disappointed him with either their wit or strength, Artorigas just hoped Saragnayan wouldn't be another one.

Bowing his head towards the Marauder "Thank you Saragnayan, before we head in there are a few questions that I would like to ask the pair of you. Better to know each other before we discuss maters with Ms Marshall." The last thing he needed was the obviously intelligent women picking apart their three piece ensemble with simple questions because they didn't know much about each other. "Have either of you done anything like this before? Also what would be your strengths? I know Xeno here is rather good with a lightsaber, I would assume you are as well being his master?"

@Scoobert @Forsythe Crowholde

 

[Darth Draugr]

"Let's just say our missions have been far worse and also far more delicate. Believe me when I say my master is more than persuasive enough for this to work, as well as more than capable of defending herself. If you recall my power, hers is much the same, if not more powerful. Now please do not insult her capabilities Artorigas."

Xeno was fond of the ally Artorigas, but the question set off the acolyte just a little. A question such as that towards Xeno would've skated by a little better. The Zabrak wasn't going to fight the other acolyte over a question, but he was letting him know where the acolyte stood in comparison to his master. There would be respect shown, otherwise problems will be dealt with after the job.

"Now, if you know what you're doing is this question. That night at the tomb seemed to scramble your brain a little bit."

Xeno was of course referring to the force ghost of Lord Andros that had tried to possess his body. It was quite the sight. The acolyte seemed fine on the exterior but Xeno was now wondering if something was wrong with him internally. If it became something far more than asking boundary questions then Xeno will deal with the problem, if his master Saragnayan hadn't beat him to the punch.

The Zabrak acolyte would motion his hand to Artorigas to lead the way as he said, "We can speak as we walk." Then looked to his master who, even in Mandalorian armors, displayed an elegant beauty. It may have just been him being bias, but to him, she was perfect.

@Braden Drake @Forsythe Crowholde

 

[Saragnayan]

"I believe," Saragnayan began, her helmeted gaze now shifting over to Xeno. The T-visor was as impassive as ever, but the ruby eyes hidden by the transparisteel morphed from amused to slightly reproving, "that Acolyte Wessex's question is directly intended for me, my dear student. There is no need to answer for my sake."

Amusing and satisfying as it was to have the Zabrak Sith jump to her defense, Xeno should still practice self-restraint when it came to her. Despite his professed feelings for her, he, of all beings, should know that his own Master was capable of handling things such as the questions posed by the other Acolyte. The Marauder's eyes narrowed. It seemed that she really still had a lot to teach her apprentice.

Curiosity piqued by Xeno's comment sent at Artorigas's way, Saragnayan's eyes narrowed as she turned to look back at the latter. While it was rather fortunate that the two Acolytes seemed to have known each other from a prior meeting, it wouldn't take long for the female Sith to study Acolyte Wessex's profile through the Force. There was something off about the young human, and she was tactful enough not to delve deeper lest she fractured the man's mind. Saragnayan did have the tendency to get... rough, when infiltrating the minds of others. All out of sheer amusement, of course, aside from extracting whatever information she needed from her unfortunate prey.

The last mission she had conducted with Xeno with regards to persuasion leaned more on the physical side of things, and as much as she wanted to join in on her student's fun she simply found the target too boring to even bother with. It ended up with Xeno working together with one of Blackwell's henchperson, resulting in the hospitalization of Cybot Galactica's CEO as well. And if coercing one Antonia Marshall to join sides with the Sith Order was what Artorigas wanted, well, Saragnayan was more than capable of doing such.

More so if he wished to turn the woman into a puppet.

"To answer your inquiries, young Acolyte," Saragnayan then addressed Artorigas, the amusement in her voice masked by the helmet's modulator, "my student exaggerates." A lie, if only to play on the human's disappointment towards other Sith he had met. His surface thoughts had been too easy to read earlier, and if he wanted the Marauder to prove herself he would only disappoint himself. Saragnayan nor Hrist didn't have the habit of showing off, more often than not opting to lull others into thinking that her status and armor were simply for show and intimidation factor. "I dual-wield lightsabers usually, and even then for a Mandalorian such as myself my skills are passable, if I may say so myself."

She gestured a hand again between her and Xeno when the latter got up from his seat. They could, indeed, speak as they walk. Saved them time, won't it? "About this particular deed we are about to undertake, then the answer you are looking for is yes,we have. If you want coercing with words, with bare hands, or through breaking spirits, I'm sure my student is up to par with either of these, as much as I am. And my strengths?"

Saragnayan chuckled mirthfully, a hint of something sinister faintly lacing her voice.

"I can tell you all about them, and it is still up to you if you would be impressed or disappointed. Wasn't there an old saying that 'action speaks louder than words'?"

@Braden Drake @Scoobert

 

[Darth Caelestis]

Artorigas was rather taken aback by the venom in Xeno's response, his question had been a valid one. He only wished to know the people he was working with, if they did not know each others strengths they could have been picked apart easily by a quick witted and silver tonged individual. Was there something else between Xeno and his master? Was that why he had leapt so such accusations as this. It would be a subject to perhaps bring up between the pair when Saragnayan was not within earshot.

He smiled when Xeno mentioned the tomb, he felt Lord Andros stir within his mind, the ancient Sith Lord living his mind had been oddly quiet since his run in with Darth Andruil, though he doubted he would be silent all night. "I am fine Xeno and Lord Andros has told me that he has no desire to mess with your body, so don't be worried." He answered cheekily.

Saragnayan was more astute with her words than her student, perhaps that could be their next lesson he thought. She downplayed herself as was befitting someone who had already offered her help in this matter. If she had gotten her defences up and gone on the attack about her abilities in contrast to Artorigas' after saying she was at his disposal it would only cause potential conflict in the future if a critical decision was to be made. She gave a simple explanation of her martial skills and that they had done something similar in the past, that was all he wanted to know. Artorigas did not want to leave one of them alone with the Marshall if he had to deal with other business if they were completely inept at diplomacy. At her final comment he smiled again, "Yes, they also say 'The Pen is mightier than the Sword.' Saragnayan. Also I was not after any specifics only basics as you gave, to give us the best chance of success."

Straightening his jacket and fastening the top button in the full length mirror to one side of the room he continued. "I have spoken to a fair number of people like Antonia Marshall back on Sereeno. They wish to be flattered but not overly so, impressed but not embarrassed. They will expect something in exchange for whatever they give, it could be a token gift or something of equal value it all depends on the person." Finished correcting his outfit he turned to face the pair. "Shall we? Or do you have any questions of me? I am an open book."

@Scoobert @Forsythe Crowholde

 

[Darth Draugr]

Xeno will admit his way with words were never the best. He was better at physical speech. The way he speaks is usually spiteful towards others. So he uses action to do his talking. Lightsabers were hidden in his sleeves for when they were needed. His part would be torture. If it seen fit for the situation otherwise he will end up being silent for the duration of the interaction.

"My apologies my master."

Xeno nodded as he let his eyes lift back up behind the sunglasses he wore. They hid the yellow glow of his eyes as he would glare at Artorigas then compose himself. He fixed his tie and cracked his knuckles. The Zabrak was ready for the event. His voice was going to be silent. Speaking was not something he was fond of anyhow. Though if a question came his way then he would reply, whether the answer was to be something that others would like, it was going to be the truth.

Artorigas continued to speak, and now the Zabrak had began to think he loves the sound of his own voice. Much of his speaking was saying the same thing twice. All that Xeno would answer with would be that of a shake of the head as he gritted his teeth. So much speaking, not enough action.

@Braden Drake @Forsythe Crowholde

 

[Saragnayan]

"Oh, we shall," the Mandalorian Sith answered Acolyte Wessex, walking past the human.

The light laugh that slipped past her lips came out raspy because of her helmet's modulator, her amusement cutting through the Force at the contrasts between the two Acolytes. One who possessed a way with words and the other his actions. The three Sith made a cutting image as their discussion finally saw their group emerge from Artorigas's ship.

One gloved hand briefly brushed against Xeno's arm, his impatience loud and clear in Saragnayan's head. She would not fault the Zabrak. He always had that drive to prove himself and to test his strength. That was good – unless he decided to do those things in situations that never called for such actions. The Marauder knew that Xeno had the sense not to do anything needlessly, however, so there was really nothing to worry about.

For now.

Patience, my dear student, she told the Zabrak Acolyte nonetheless, faint but amused laughter ringing through her words. We'll get to the good parts soon.

Heads turned towards the two finely dressed men and the lone Mandalorian in their midst, but Saragnayan paid the stares no heed. The T-visor would soon shift from Xeno to Artorigas as Saragnayan gestured at the direction of the villa that housed their... target.

"Your manner and behavior clearly speaks nobility," she began, making conversation while they walked. "And you're Serrenian. House Wessex is something I, admittedly, haven't paid much attention to. Perhaps once this is all over, you would be amenable to introduce to me your House's history – if that can be allowed?"

@Braden Drake @Scoobert

 

[Darth Caelestis]

It appeared the estate was rather full and lively tonight, perhaps the trio were here to put on a show for tonight he wondered. Artorigas tilted his head to one of the guards as they walked through, they were not stopped not only were they expected but simple hired guards could see the group were not people to be messed without trouble.

"To be honest Saragnayan I would be more shocked if you had heard of us. We are but a young and small house and I would be glade to tell you our short but interesting history when we have time, later perhaps back on the ship." He said with a smile. "Though I am sure your house is much more interesting and powerful than my own. I have heard much of the Mandalorian culture and I am in awe, so any first hand knowledge I too could gain would be greatly appreciated."

The group reached the main household, this time guards did stop the group and asked for their names and reasons for visiting. It was a short matter to have them allowed into the house and complex proper, here delights from all across the system could be seen. A man approached the group from the second floor stairs, unlike many of the other people in attendance he did not seem to be enjoying the festivities, staff probably Artorigas thought. "Mistress Marshall will be with you shortly, in the meantime she asks that you enjoy yourselves."

@Scoobert @Forsythe Crowholde

 

[Darth Draugr]

Patience was one thing Xeno was never fond of. He had always wanted to just go and get the job done. Of course, as always, his master was correct. He would need to contain himself, and he was was, before they could get to the juicy fun stuff at the end. Now the trio of Sith began to make their way through the crowd. An odd trio to be seen together, a Zabrak, human dressed as a noble, and a lone Mandalorian. The eyes of the other guests were definitely drawn to them.

Passing through the crowd Xeno noticed a man giving a dirty look. He decided to turn and give a pumpfake of the chest and a growl. The man jumped back in terror. The Zabrak chuckled at the man's fear, and continued with the group. Some guards had them stopped as Xeno turned back around. Did these idiots really think they could stop them? The Zabrak took a step forward at the guards with his fists clenched.

Just in that moment he heard a voice from an unamused person. Xeno related to that feeling. They spoke of the target expecting them and that they will be with them shortly. Well good, otherwise Xeno would have to cause a scene. Marshall should pray he isn't unleashed on her. Now all there was to do was wait and 'enjoy himself'.

"I need a drink.."

The acolyte would walk away to the bar area. When he passed through the crowd he would wave his hand in the air as he would acknowledge any comment made. Upon arrival to the bar he had noticed a select few choices of drinks. Then he looked at the bartender, an ugly human to say the least. Xeno leaning on the counter would then say,

"Your finest.."

The Zabrak tossed credits on the counter top as he waited for his drink.

@Forsythe Crowholde @Braden Drake

 

[Saragnayan]

"I look forward to that discussion, Artorigas," Saragnayan told the Serennian as they made it past the first line of security. The second would have been largely ignored had the group not been asked their identities and reason for coming to Marshall's estate. To answer the Acolyte's words about learning the female Sith's heritage, the Marauder inclined her head in acquiescence. "I'll be more than willing to tell you what you'll need to know."

The T-visor shifted from Artorigas then to Xeno who had removed himself from the group to head off to a bar. Saragnayan let her student be, eyes narrowing a little as she picked up on his feelings through the Force. Impatience and annoyance streaked through the Zabrak and she had no desire to further quell those feelings. Instead her helmeted gaze met the man who approached. With the revelry around them the newcomer didn't seem to be the sort to enjoy himself as well.

"Very well," said the Marauder, gaze still locked on the man. She could feel eyes on her and Artorigas, extending even to Xeno who was still waiting for his drink by the bar. Saragnayan smiled beneath the cover of her helmet as she snatched one surface thought from another, careful not to dig in too deep in someone's mind lest she broke them. Wouldn't be fun if one of the guests suddenly shut down and end up in a state of catatonia from having their mind scrambled.

A passing server approached Saragnayan and Artorigas, offering the two Sith a glass of wine each. T-visor shifting pointedly at the poor girl, the Marauder lived up to the culture of the Mando she had stolen the armor and helmet from.

"A straw would be appreciated," she told the server, voice made stern and cold by the helmet's modulator. "Be a dear and get one for me, won't you?"

Tail between her legs the young server would scurry away to do what she was told after making sure that Artorigas either took a drink from her tray or not.

@Braden Drake @Scoobert

 

[Darth Caelestis]

Artorigas struggled to keep in a laugh when the Mandalorian requested a straw. He thought that she may tilt the mask up to get a sip, then he might have a glance at the women underneath. He was interested to see what she looked like, she must be half decent considering the reaction he got from the usual level headed Xeno when he questioned her. Glass in hand he guided Saragnayan a little away from where Xeno sat at the bar. "Do you know that your Acolyte has a little thing for you?" He asked, it was clear that there was more than just martial admiration in his response, even if the thing was not sexual it could be worse. Divine loyalty only lead to bad things to both those loyal and those the loyalty is given to.

"What is between you and your student is not for me to dissuade, but I only worry that it could perhaps get in the way of the mission?" It was a true concern of his, what if Marshall said something aggressive or negative to Saragnayan would the Zabrak leap sabers drawn at the women they were trying to convince to join their side?

@Forsythe Crowholde @Scoobert

 

[Darth Draugr]

The bartender was slow to bring the drink to the Zabrak, but nonetheless it had made it's way to the likes of Xeno. The drink sat down right in front of the Zabrak as the bartender slid the credits into his hand and walked away to deal with another customer. The sounds of the music playing was rather atrocious. Figuratively making Xeno's ears bleed. He needed something to drown it out with, hence the drink he purchased. Hopefully it did the trick well enough.

The bartender brought what looked to be a greenish colored whiskey to the Acolyte. Not thinking into it too much he took a swig, and felt the burn of the alcohol pour down his throat. Letting a belch come up it wasn't loud enough to cause attention, but just enough a foggy green color left his mouth. It was different, and had a grand taste to it. The liquid was a little thicker but still easy to swallow. The only thing that mattered was that it was working.

Turning around seated on the stool and leaning against the counter he would watch as his master, Saragnayan, and Artorigas would speak. Of what? He hadn't the slightest idea. Knowing Artorigas it was probably about learning something to put him in a powerful position or it was over the mission. Honestly it could be over the arena fight a few nights ago. Anything was possible. The only thing left for Xeno to do was wait for the signal to head to the place of business. Though knowing when would be the thing that he hadn't known for sure.

@Forsythe Crowholde @Braden Drake

 

[Saragnayan]

The Acolyte's amusement was palpable despite his efforts to hold it in to himself. Saragnayan was in no way offended – she wasn't even a genuine Mandalorian to begin with, only perfectly mimicking the actions of the person who owned the armor she now adorned. The Marauder shifted her focus to Artorigas nonetheless, helmeted head tilting to the side as she willingly went with him when he guided her away from the bar. Saragnayan glanced at her student over her shoulder and gave Xeno a reassuring nod, dissuading him from acting on her defense as she and Artorigas stepped a little away from the bar.

The server returned with the requested straw just as Artorigas asked his question, and Saragnayan allowed a little glimpse of Hrist to rise from her disguise. The light chuckle she made went out a little raspy due to her helmet's modulator. The Marauder slipped the straw in the glass and took a small sip of her drink before giving the Acolyte the response he seemed to be seeking.

"I am well aware that my dear student holds an... admiration for me," she told Acolyte Wessex, amusement evident in her voice as the T of her visor shifted to focus on him. "We do not keep secrets from each other – and while it may be something you might frown upon it keeps him focused on his goals. And yes," Saragnayan added, feeling that Artorigas might ask her out of curiosity, "he knows the face underneath the helmet."

Ah, so he was actually concerned about how Xeno might behave if the target spoke out of turn against the Mandalorian Sith. A valid concern, but Xeno had given Hrist – and subsequently Saragnayan – his word that she would not be a distraction. While the Zabrak referred more to his goals than to the current task they were undertaking, the Marauder trusted that her student wouldn't do anything that might potentially jeopardize the cause for their presence on this place.

And besides, Xeno had already learned from his earlier mistake. She knew he was smart enough not to do it again.

"Fear not, Acolyte Wessex. Xeno will do no such thing," Saragnayan assured Artorigas, one gloved hand finding the young man's shoulder. "You have my word."

@Braden Drake @Scoobert

 

[Darth Caelestis]

The women was self assured and that helped ease his tensions, she also seemed to have a strong grasp upon both her apprentices feelings and his will. Artorigas could not tell if it was a good or a bad thing, he was thankful at that moment that he was not so burdened by a Master. The one who had taught him his first knowledge of The Force and the Sith was a drunk, with little worth past the mundane training he had received, Artorigas was certain he had since surpassed the old man in both power and knowledge.

The consistent mention of his rank of Acolyte was annoying to say the least, to him his nobility came before his rank within the Sith so he should be referred to as such. The fact he was being spoken to like this from a part Mando part Sith hybrid grated at something deep down inside, though it would change soon. Plans were already in motion, soon he would reach the same rank as Saragnayan and after that quickly surpass her.

As if to break his attention the butler returned to the pair. "Miss Marshall will see you know. Please follow me." With that the man turned on his heels and headed back through the house. Artorigas did not look back to see if the marauder and her apprentice followed, if they were left behind it was there misstep. As he would make sure that who contributed most here got back to those high above them all.

As they move up the stairs to the second level a large commotion came from there right, shouting and screaming, laughter and cursing. From there now elevated position they could easily see a fight pit, what appeared to be a Zabrak and and a Quarren going at each other with what appeared to be brass knuckles. "I do enjoy a good scuffle." Ahead of them at the top of the stairs stood Miss Marshall a wicked smile upon her face.

@Forsythe Crowholde @Scoobert

 

[Darth Draugr]

After watching his master speak with the other Acolyte he took notice of the puppet of a man walked down to inform them it was time to meet Ms. Marshall. It was about damn time. The Zabrak was bored of the party around him. When he noticed the others began to make their way up the stairs he would follow quickly behind. The time to see what was so important to the Sith was finally here. Hopefully this whole mission was not just a big waste of time for the trio.

Keeping quiet Xeno walked over to watch the fight taking place. He would be listening in on the details of what the two other Sith would speak to this woman about. If things were to get heated then, Xeno was ready to do his part in the mission. Marshall should pray for her sakes it doesn't come down to something as barbaric as that. It would be just such a shame.

The fight that Xeno was watching was of some Quarren and a Zabrak. His interest grew as he would watch a fellow brother of Dathomir fight this Quarren man to man. Xeno was rooting for the Nightbrother in the fight. He had only hoped that they don't ruin the name of Dathomir in front of so many viewers and betters in attendance.

"Aye, a scuffle is quite the observation.."

The statement was made quietly, but not quiet enough to go unheard. The Zabrak was sure that others heard him, but he couldn't care any less than he did. The fight was interesting enough, he would continue to watch. His stance of power. Arms were crossed with his feet separated only a little less than shoulder's distance of each other. His body slightly sideways so he could turn to see the rest of the group easily enough.

@Forsythe Crowholde @Braden Drake

 

[Saragnayan]

She could tell that Artorigas was increasingly becoming annoyed at being addressed with his current title, and Saragnayan simply cast the young man an amused smile hidden by her helmet. The Marauder would not comment about it, however – just because his irritation entertained her did not mean that she would cast aside her common sense and the respect he was due. Artorigas was the same ambitious man as Xeno, and she was smart enough not to poke fun at people like them.

Ambitious people tended to not mind having their hands dirtied to reach their goals, after all. And she didn't fancy making enemies of her own fellow Sith. Sure it was common among their Order, but Saragnayan knew her place. The Marauder might be content in her own station but it did not mean that she never desired to gain more power than she already possessed. A coward was useless when they were powerless nor stopped striving for more.

She had no care if the Acolytes surpassed her in rank one day. It was just a title. Saragnayan – Hrist Aufreisser – cared more about power and having powerful people adore her, protect her, and look after her. Of course it would be pointless to be surrounded by powerful people if she was weak. She had been weak once, helpless. She had no desire to return to that horrible state.

Wordlessly she followed the butler and her own companions, her gaze immediately drawn by the fighting raging below. And while her attention might have been on the fight, Saragnayan was keeping track of Antonia Marshall's words and emotions, even going as far as to listen to whatever surface thoughts the woman had that might catch the Marauder's interest.

Reaching out towards Artorigas' mind through the Force, the smile on Saragnayan's face widened a little. Now, how do you plan on persuading a... woman of this caliber, Dar'jetii?

He seemed to set on proving that he would offer more contribution to this task he himself had set up. Might as well humor him.

@Braden Drake @Scoobert

 

[Darth Caelestis]

Artorigas locked eyes with the women before giving a short bow, his arms outstretched. "It is a pleasure Miss Marshall, thank you for inviting us." He answered for the group. "As per our conversation over Holo I wish to discuss how best the Sith Eternal can help you and the planet of Edussa." The women smiled back at him, but he could tell there was something a lot less innocent behind that smile. This women was a fast riser on the planet, gone from nothing to one of the most powerful people in less than a decade.

"Well..." She dawdled fingers running through her hair as she thought. Her eyes glancing over to the fighting ring off to the side. Artorigas did not like where this was going. "How about a show of strength? Get us off to a good start, wet my appetite so to say." Artorigas kept his face calm but inside he was seething, he had hoped to keep combat out of this discussion. "How about you and you." She begin pointing behind him. "You look like a women who can handle herself, and you well you are the type of man I like to see." Marshall said licking her lips, Artorigas turned to see that she had picked out the Master, Student pair. "Just a quick three round fight, I will let you use weapons if you want?"

Artorigas rubbed his chin, he should have expected something strange from the women but this was a bit much. Turning towards the pair he shrugged his shoulders. "You up for putting on a show?"

@Scoobert @Forsythe Crowholde

 

[Darth Draugr]

Xeno wasn't looking at the woman when she was speaking, only hearing what was said. Artorigas gave a half decent pitch, but ultimately this woman, Marshall, wanted for a pair of people to fight. When Xeno didn't hear names, he looked over to see a finger pointing at both he and his master. This was definitely not part of the plan.. in fact it was almost the exact opposite of what they came to do. It was visible confusion on Xeno's face for only a moment, then he went into an angry expression.

"Ms. Marshall, with as much respect as I can give currently, we did not come here to fight each other at your pleasure. I will gladly face any of your Champions in that pit with a smile on my face, I am not here to fight my own."

The Zabrak may have disappointed this woman at some level or degree, but it was the truth spoken. Yes, 'at all costs' was at all costs, though it was not a part of the description of the job to face his fellow Sith, much less his master. His facial expression was definitely easy to read from any point in the room.

Then Xeno looked at Artorigas, 'putting up a show?' What was he twelve? If Xeno was to fight it would be for dominance, or his own amusement. Not the amusement of others. Then Xeno thought to himself. Does this woman see me as the better fighter of he and Artorigas? Or perhaps that I am the strongest? He looked back at Ms. Marshall,

"I can assure you, I will show what the Sith are capable of in that fight pit. Send as many of your Champions as you want. They can bring weapons at their desire, I will fight with only my hands. I will leave my blades with my fellow Sith here. Seems like a fair challenge if you ask me."

@Forsythe Crowholde @Braden Drake