The crimson child -Male Sith Reader-

Seed of Dissent

"Senator Merrik, I am honored by your presence," you began, your voice smooth and persuasive. "Please, have a seat. We have much to discuss."

With practiced ease, you delved into the intricacies of Mandalorian politics, subtly probing the Senator's vulnerabilities and exploiting his insecurities. With each carefully crafted word, you wove a web of lies and half-truths, painting a tantalizing vision of power and influence that beckoned to him like a siren's song.

"You see, Senator," you explained, your voice dripping with honeyed charm, "Mandalore stands at a crossroads, teetering on the brink of uncertainty. The Duchess's leadership, while admirable, lacks the strength and resolve needed to guide our people through these tumultuous times."

Senator Merrik listened intently, his gaze fixed upon you with a mix of fascination and trepidation. He knew not what lay beneath your smooth façade, but the promise of power and prestige proved too enticing to resist.

"And that is where you come in, Senator," you continued, your smile widening ever so slightly. "With your wisdom and guidance, we can usher in a new era of prosperity for Mandalore. Together, we shall shape the destiny of our people, ensuring a future of unrivalled greatness."

The Senator's eyes gleamed with newfound determination, his resolve hardened by the allure of power. In that moment, you knew that he was yours to command, a puppet dancing to the tune of your machinations.

"Count me in, my lord," he declared, his voice tinged with a hint of eagerness. "I shall do whatever it takes to ensure Mandalore's success, even if it means betraying the Duchess."

You nodded approvingly, masking your satisfaction behind a mask of indifference. "Very well, Senator. Together, we shall forge a path to greatness, one that shall cement our legacy for generations to come."

As Senator Merrik departed, his mind consumed by visions of grandeur, you allowed yourself a moment of quiet satisfaction. Another pawn had fallen into place, another step closer to achieving your ambition.

"Please excuse my sudden intrusion, Master (S/N)." Barriss remarks submissively as she entered the room. "What do we need someone like him for?"

You turned to face Barriss, your expression unreadable as you considered her question. Though she was your loyal apprentice, her curiosity bordered on insubordination at times. Nevertheless, you recognized the importance of keeping her informed, even if certain details were best kept hidden.

"Ah, Barriss," you replied, your voice smooth and measured. "Senator Merrik may prove to be a valuable asset in our endeavors. His influence among Mandalore's political elite is not to be underestimated, and with his cooperation, we can further solidify our grip on power."

Barriss nodded, though a flicker of doubt lingered in her eyes. "But what of his loyalty, Master (S/N)?" she pressed, her voice tinged with uncertainty. "Can we truly trust him to remain faithful to our cause?"

You offered her a reassuring smile, though it held little warmth. "Rest assured, my dear Barriss," you replied, your tone dripping with confidence. "Senator Merrik will remain firmly under our control. His ambitions blind him to anything but his own desire for power, making him the perfect pawn in our game."

Barriss hesitated, her brow furrowing in thought. "And what of the Duchess?" she asked, her voice barely above a whisper. "What of her fate once our plans come to fruition?"

You regarded her for a moment, weighing your words carefully. "The Duchess's fate is of little consequence," you remarked dismissively. "Once Mandalore falls under our control, she will be but a distant memory, a relic of a bygone era. Our focus must remain on the future, Barriss, not on sentimentality."