The crimson child -Male Sith Reader-

Deception's dark dance

In the evening, you discovered yourself secluded in your private chambers, accompanied only by Barriss. The atmosphere in the chambers was cloaked in a serene tranquillity, with soft candlelight casting gentle flickers of warmth across the room. The air was filled with a subtle fragrance of lavender, contributing to the sense of calm that enveloped the space. The quietude was punctuated only by the occasional crackle of the fireplace, lending a cozy ambiance to the scene. Barriss, ever-present yet unobtrusive, exuded a comforting presence, adding to the peaceful aura of the moment.

"Master, may I speak," Barriss spoke up, breaking the silence. She paused momentarily, awaiting your nod of approval before proceeding, "Why did we attempt to recruit Senator Merrik initially, only to treat him as a mere pawn in your scheme?"

You regarded Barriss with a measured gaze, your expression betraying none of the complexities swirling beneath the surface. "Ah, Barriss," you began, your voice a smooth melody that belied the intricate web of manipulation you had woven. "The use of people changes over time, some faster than others. While Senator Merrik may have served a purpose initially, circumstances evolve, and with them, so do our strategies."

You paced the room with a deliberate grace, your movements fluid and calculated. "Merrik's greed was the reason for his initial utility to us," you continued, your tone tinged with a hint of disdain. "His thirst for power and influence made him susceptible to our manipulations, a pawn to be moved at our discretion."

You paused, allowing your words to sink in before continuing. "But as events unfolded, it became clear that Merrik's usefulness had run its course. His ambitions outweighed his loyalty, and he became a liability rather than an asset."

Barriss listened intently, her expression unreadable as she absorbed your words. "However," you went on, your voice taking on a softer tone, "that does not necessarily mean that he was of no use at all. Every pawn has its purpose, even if that purpose changes over time."

You met Barriss's gaze with a knowing look, your eyes shimmering with a glint of intrigue. "Merrik served his purpose in exposing the corruption within Mandalore's political landscape, a necessary step in our larger scheme. Now that his role is fulfilled, it is time to discard him and move forward with our plans."

Barriss nodded slowly, a thoughtful expression crossing her features. "I understand, Master," she said quietly, her voice tinged with a hint of remorse. "It is a harsh truth, but a necessary one in the pursuit of our goals."

You offered her a reassuring smile, your demeanour radiating confidence and authority. "Indeed, Barriss," you replied, your voice filled with certainty. "In the game of politics, sacrifices must be made, and pawns must be played accordingly. It is the price we pay for power and influence."

Barriss's contemplative nod signaled her understanding, yet beneath her composed facade, you sensed a flicker of doubt—a hesitation that needed to be extinguished before it could grow into dissent. You moved closer to her, your presence a subtle reassurance as you sought to cement her loyalty further.

"But do not mistake ruthlessness for callousness, my dear apprentice," you continued, your voice a gentle caress against the backdrop of the chamber's tranquility. "Every action we take, every pawn we maneuver, serves a greater purpose—a purpose that ultimately benefits our cause."

Barriss met your gaze, her eyes reflecting the myriad emotions swirling within her. "I... I understand, Master," she murmured, her voice tinged with uncertainty. "But sometimes it feels... wrong, to manipulate others for our own gain."

Your lips curved into a knowing smile, a subtle gesture meant to assuage her doubts. "It is a natural sentiment, Barriss," you replied, your tone soothing yet authoritative. "But remember, in the grand scheme of things, our cause transcends the individual. We are not simply seeking power for its own sake, but rather to bring about a greater purpose—a purpose that will reshape the galaxy itself."