Darth Andeddu's Keep

“In my trade, I have come to expect the unexpected...”
He had learned this well from countless battles and opponents. From the droid fighters used by some to the ubiquitous X-Wing fighters, one came to expect anything when as experienced as he was. From the Killiks to battle droids, one could take any number of strategies, and more importantly, the insight that not everyone is what you expect. He was coming from a military standpoint, and he had visited here with the intention of not only gaining a new ally, but to get a gauge of him. No expectations to begin with.

Even so, he could still not grasp the cycle of love and hatred that seemed to be between himself, this Knight Illaria, the Supreme Commander, and that fool Azria. The cycle itself was relatively simple; the Supreme Commander had something that he wanted, and he was willing to use any means to gain it. It was a logical move. But, as with his compatriot Thrawn, he always strode to understand why. The driving force behind the cycle, the reason Harnan went to these lengths, were beyond his understanding. This frightened him. The Chiss prided themselves on understanding both their allies and opponents, and yet this one thing eluded him. He made it a goal to crack this shell, and hopefully further the efficiency of his strategies. This emotion, love. Perhaps it could be put to use furthering his own strategies.

Nonwithstanding, one did not need to be Force-Sensitive to see the pain on his face at the simple bringing up of the subject. And yet... he seemed to almost be reaching out to a different power. A higher power. Someone... elusive. Mysterious. Despite his slight intoxication, his mind was still analyzing. Perhaps at this very moment this power seeked to manipulate the galaxy further, similar to the way Darth Sidious did during the Clone Wars. All driving to a single point. The ultimate agenda. And whatever this goal was, Vlusu would make sure that he and his people were on the right side in this conflict, no matter what it took.
“Although... you seem to be an efficient individual. One who sees the bigger picture. These are the sort of people I surround myself with. Not the most powerful, or the wealthiest, but the most analytical. Those who will see the battlefield as a whole.”

"I would certainly hope so, Lord Ren."
He had made a career out of analysis, observing the big picture. He would always look ten steps ahead, how his opponents actions might lead them to their downfall. From the spires of Mygeeto to the plant-ridden surface of Garqi, there were those who wished to strike down the First Order. And he would do everything in his power to keep them out of his oversector. At least while the First Order was the dominant power. He studied the art of war. Worked to perfect it. But the man sitting next to him; he was forged by it.

He took another sip of the drink, before setting it upon the table. Another servant walked toward them, carrying a large case.
"You certainly seem to be a great warrior. With this in mind, I would like to present you with my next gift..."
Opening the case revealed a large sword. It was certainly very ancient, though, seeing as it was forged from songsteel, still a potent weapon in the right hands. The guard and blade of the weapon were engraved with ancient patterns drawn from Cheunh.

“It is indeed an ancient weapon, and you guess of material is correct.”
Vlusu turned his attention to a previous statement, more specifically a name. It was most interesting to see how this knight in particular fought. His specialty revolved around his strength. Akin to a broadsword. It was a shame he had not brought one of these weapons, but it was fine.
“Who is this Illaria you speak of?”

“You mistake my intentions. I have heard Illaria’s many titles, but I am attempting to get a sense for what sort of person she is...”
All of this was a part of Vlusu’s web. An inescapable trap. He tried to know everything, so that he could best build his web. One could say he was like a spider. Building his web until an opponent came around. The power of preparedness was often unrecognized, and he tried to know everything he could about potential allies and enemies, so that he could best decide how they would fit into his web.