The crimson child -Male Sith Reader-

The Hand of Shadows

Count Dooku's presence beside you was a tangible weight, a constant reminder of the intricate power dynamics at play. The sleek speeder moved with silent efficiency through the bustling cityscape of Raxulon, the lights of the capital reflecting off the polished surfaces of the vehicle.

As you approached the grand Senate building, its imposing structure dominated the skyline, a testament to the Confederacy's power and unity. The speeder descended gracefully, landing on a private platform reserved for high-ranking officials. Dooku exited first, his demeanor one of unshakable confidence. You followed, your dark robes billowing slightly in the breeze.

The entrance to the Senate was flanked by tall columns and guarded by droid sentinels, their photoreceptors scanning the surroundings with mechanical precision. Inside, the atmosphere was charged with anticipation. Senators and dignitaries moved through the vast halls, their expressions ranging from concern to determination.

Dooku led the way, his stride purposeful. As you walked, you exchanged nods with several senators, acknowledging their presence without breaking your composed facade. The Count guided you towards the main chamber, where the heated debates were about to commence.

The chamber was a grand amphitheater, with rows of seats arranged in a semicircle around a central podium. The design allowed for maximum visibility and acoustics, ensuring that every voice could be heard. The room was already filling with senators, their discussions creating a low hum of activity.

Dooku gestured towards a seat near the front, indicating that you should take your place. You settled into the chair, your presence drawing curious glances from those around you. To your left, Senator Mina Bonteri was already seated, her expression a mix of hope and determination. She offered you a polite nod, which you returned.

As the chamber continued to fill, the noise level increased. Senators from various systems were deep in conversation, their voices overlapping in a cacophony of opinions. The central podium remained empty, a silent reminder of the impending debate.

The anticipation in the room was palpable, and when Count Dooku finally ascended to the podium, a hush fell over the assembly. His presence commanded attention, and as he began to speak, his voice carried with the authority of a seasoned leader.

"Esteemed senators of the Confederacy," Dooku began, his tone measured and deliberate, "we gather here today to discuss a matter of great importance. The Republic has extended an offer of peace, a gesture that warrants our careful consideration."

A murmur rippled through the chamber, senators exchanging glances and whispered comments. Dooku raised a hand to silence them, his gaze sweeping across the assembly.

"We must approach this offer with a clear understanding of the Republic's history and intentions," Dooku continued. "Their actions have shown a pattern of deceit and manipulation. Yet, we must also weigh the potential benefits of peace for our people."

Dooku paused, allowing his words to sink in. The senators' faces were a mix of scepticism and cautious interest. You could feel the tension in the room, a collective holding of breath as they awaited Dooku's next words.

"However," Dooku resumed, his voice dropping to a more somber tone, "we must be vigilant. This offer could very well be a scheme devised by the Republic to gain an advantage in this war. They seek to weaken our resolve, to fracture our unity. We have seen their duplicity time and again. Remember Geonosis, where they feigned diplomacy only to launch a brutal assault."

He let the silence that followed linger, the weight of his words pressing down on the assembly. "Peace, if genuine, is desirable. But not at the cost of our sovereignty and freedom. We must remain united, strong, and sceptical of their intentions."