CC: The Crimson Covenant

[Syren]

Chandaar: Republic Capital

Surface: Ambaril

In the silence after midnight, Dahlia slips from her room and pads out into the living room. With her family soundly asleep, she would do a little digging. She flips on the consol and connects to the Republic network.

Search criteria: Karen Winton.

It takes several minutes to sort through the results. Dahlia decides to start with an unofficial biography which gives an overview of her upbringing. Karen Winton was born on Naboo but raised almost exclusively on Coruscant in a life of wealth and privilege. She has one sister, Alexia, who's own biography reads like an obituary. Karen's admittance into North Coruscant High, the famed prep school which produced some of the finest Moff's and Admiral's, led to her discovery by the Imperial fashion label, Raga'Ana. She, along with her three friends, became the faces of the brand and appeared in a variety of media over the course of four years. Karen seemed to have everything; looks, smarts, wealth, fame, and a cadre of impossibly attractive friends. The story takes a slightly darker turn in her senior year but is missing critical information exploring the specifics. Dahlia scans the list of articles and finds the publication written by Kent Carlson. This version seems to have considerably more detail, including Alexia Winton's instability and eventual rampage that took the lives of all but The Four. The murders are covered in graphic detail but one stands out as the most heartbreaking. Karen's boyfriend of almost four years, Skyler McNeal, was thrown from the top of 500 Republica right in front of her.

Dahlia shutters, trying to imagine that kind of cruelty from a sibling.

She reads on, the entire sordid tale from socialite to Sith to fiancé to the Imperial Emperor. The one thing that strikes her as odd is the serious lack of parental involvement. It's as if they don't even exist. In fact, they are hardly mentioned at all. Dahlia can't comprehend a world where her parents weren't around. Her family is so solid, so supportive but that's not something she would ever admit to them. That would shift the balance of power. She scrolls back through and finds what she is really looking for.

Search criteria: Alexander Winton/ Monica Greyson

Winton was born with a silver spoon in his perfect pout, the heir to a RepulsorCorp fortune on Bakura. Clever and ruthless, he topped his classes at university with an almost contemptuous ease. He served as Executive Vice President until his supposed death in a speeder crash with his wife. There are conflicting reports about that considering he was also supposedly executed by the Hapan Consortium many years later then linked to the Corellian Confederation shortly before the Centerpoint battle. For a dead guy, Winton was awfully busy.

The Queen was elected to the throne at twelve and served two terms until she became an activist for Naboo's wetlands or something equally cheesy and philanthropic. She met Winton while he was on a business trip and their romance was well documented in the trades.

Dahlia finds herself staring at their pictures. The Queen was a smoldering beauty, dark hair and an exotic complexion. It's Winton's image that sends chills down her spine. He is thin and angular with the same crimson hair, green eyes and the high cheek bones that made Dahlia so distinctive back in the Corporate Sector. She shares the features of one and the last name of the other.

Coincidence?

Dahlia thinks not.

She may be young but she is hardly stupid.

As she flips off the consol and sneaks back into her room, she is convinced Rutherford and Celeste are hiding something. There is a connection between her and the Winton girl that cannot be denied. The real question is if she can approach her parents about it without starting a war. Questions burn inside her, fueled by the face of Alexander Winton. He was an evil man from what she can tell, someone who manipulated a lot of people including Rutherford Gellar and Celeste Masterton. If they shared a connection, would the lies then be justified? People have done worse to protect those they love. Garron Prescott's question now seems all the more relevant.

Should it matter?

It shouldn't but it does. There is a compulsion, no, a fundamental need to know more. With their spring break rapidly running out, they would soon be returning to the sector. She could not conduct her research on the consol's within the Gellar Estate. Those are almost always monitored. There is only one person whom she can trust with completely unsupervised access.

Dahlia smiles to herself as she falls back into bed.

She would recruit Muriel.


-TBC

[Syren]

Chandaar: Republic Capital

Surface: Ambaril

Rutherford Gellar adjusts his tie as he walks out into the living room. Gemma, Dane and Dahlia are having breakfast around the table in the kitchen. Celeste pours a cup of coffee and hands it to him. Their fight had been the most explosive in their marriage but a necessary part of any functioning relationship. No two people should agree on everything. He never wanted to hurt her but in the aftermath he sees that his actions have done just that. Celeste has always been far more altruistic than he and the often times harsh tactics in his corporate life perplex and fluster her. He cannot blame her for the way she feels but he cannot escape the methodology of his business. There are certain things he must do in order to keep ChemiX competitive and the Corporate Sector the most viable trade option for the many factions spread across the galaxy. This includes aligning himself with the Federation to undermine those that would oppose them.

Celeste would surely not approve but she would tolerate it if it meant shifting the spotlight away from their family. At times, the ends do justify the means. He pulls out his com, intending to leave a message for Mara to go over the specifics of their plan when Dane protests.

"You have to go again? I thought you were going to stay with us today."

Gemma frowns, "Yeah, daddy. Can't we go with you?"

"I'm not sure if that's possible."

Celeste nods, "I would have to agree. This is a delicate situation."

Dahlia glances up from her data pad, "You did promise."

He smiles, touched that they would want to spend time with him. He must cherish these moments until he loses them to the inevitable apathy of adolescence. Rutherford consider it.

"Perhaps there is something we can do. The Federation Ambassador is traveling with her nephew who has just celebrated a birthday. With his aunt working so much, I'm sure spending time with someone closer to his age might be a nice change."

Celeste brightens, "It would certainly give me a chance to meet this Ambassador I've been hearing so much about."

Rutherford cannot be certain this statement is entirely without sarcasm but it could satisfy all parties if handled appropriately.

"There is no harm in asking."

He connects to Mara's voicemail and proposes the idea. The children could entertain themselves while they hammer out the details before presenting it to the Senate. The worlds would be watching to see how both factions played the situation. Everyone is surely expecting a brutal fight they could dissect in the media. The unexpected turn of events would give them both some positive press.

Celeste is less than thrilled with the idea of exposing their children to the Federation but in this there is a silver lining. This woman, Mara Tacofer, who seems to know so much about them, is a great curiosity to her. She told Rutherford she was a close friend to both Valerie Gellar and Karen Winton. How they are connected is still somewhat of a mystery and why shouldn't it be? Women know better than to reveal their full hand to anyone. This would give her the opportunity to find out if she knew Melanie as well and how a Federation Ambassador has come to know the intimate details of their lives.


-TBC

[Syren]

Corporate Sector

Etti IV: Surface: Mondder

Direx Prex D'Ken Dawning gives a rather scathing account of the happenings on the Republic capital of Chandaar. He highlights the recent shift in the media away from Rutherford Gellar's remarks before the Senate but cannot completely downplay the fact that the Sector itself was going to have to deal with the Trade Federation.

This does not sit well with two very key people in the room.

The first is the Executive officer, Iver Aguilar, a cold and unforgiving man.

The second is the newly appointed Imperial Remnant advisor, Vex Sienna. Sienna is still getting a feel for the climate, given the role assigned to him after serving in the Imperial navy for nearly eleven years after his graduation from the Carida Academy. He was excited for the new challenge given Emperor Schrag's temperament and fondness for executing commanding officers for the most trivial offenses. His loyalty to the Empire has never wavered but with the losses they suffered at Centerpoint and the struggle to reclaim territory in the aftermath, Sienna felt it would be counterproductive to sacrifice potential leaders on the whims of misplaced rage. So he accepted the position to keep tabs on their interests in the Corporate Sector, ensuring they would arm and supply their forces as the Emperor conspired to reclaim the galaxy at large. He expected to be surprised but not nearly as surprised as hearing names he was once familiar with. The reports streaming out of the Republic capital bleed into the Centerpoint anniversary and those who lost their lives in it. After all, Sienna was on Emperor Dementat's command ship when Karen Winton stormed out and headed for the station only for Dementat to follow suit.

Neither returned.

Iver Aguilar's gravelly voice snaps him back into the moment.

"Just what are you saying, Dawning? That Gellar has aligned the Corporate Sector with the Federation?"

D'Ken nods, "I am told the discussions are ongoing."

"This is an outrage!" Aguilar snarls. "You assured me Gellar's prior...involvement with the Federation would sway the Republic Senate in our favor. Now it seems he has not only made a fool of himself but willingly aided in the Federation's resurgence into the markets. Our markets."

D'Ken's plotting against Rutherford has backfired in his face as he is now seen as the responsible party for this failure to secure sole Republic contracts. Others had been suggested for the mission but D'Ken insisted Rutherford was best suited. While he wanted desperately for him to fail, he did not expect the Sector's reputation to be called into question as well.

"The mistake was mine," D'Ken says evenly. "But we have not lost our contracts just yet. The Republic believes in the strength of diversity even when it comes to its suppliers. Gellar did paint them as the traitorous villains but the Federation Ambassador was armed with the Sector's own checked past along with sensitive information about Gellar which they then attempted to blackmail him with. Gellar denounced this tactic publicly and in doing so brought unnecessary media attention." 

"That he did."

"There is still a chance Gellar can salvage this."

Aguilar narrows his steely gaze, "For your sake, you had better pray he does."


- TBC

[Syren]

Corporate Sector

Etti IV: Surface: Mondder

After the meeting breaks, Vex Sienna takes a stroll around  the city. He ponders his life in the ten years since Centerpoint, the triumphs and the promotions contrasted with the Imperial unrest as the Republic once again took center stage. They had stayed so far out of the Imperial-Confederation conflict to ensure they remain intact after the dust settled. A wise move, Vex thinks, but a bit calculated for the idealistic Republic.

The Empire had purchased him a spacious loft in the center of Mondder along with a hefty salary to ensure their interests are maintained in the sector. Emperor Schrag had been very clear in his intentions  - secure weapons and technology contracts from the Corporate Sector that would allow them to stockpile and rebuild before wiping out the Republic once and for all. Their borders have grown dangerously close to their own and so many worlds were requesting admittance that the Republic could barely keep up. They needed to weaken their hold from within to destabilize the galaxy and allow for an Imperial conquest.

Such a move would take time which is why he was selected for the position on the Direx Board. At thirty-three, he was handsome, clever and charming. These qualities would work in his favor as he negotiated  the contracts while simultaneously investigating those handling the Republic accounts. With enough information, he could feed it back to the Empire who would, in turn, use it in their advantage.

Back at the loft, he tosses his jacket across the back of the couch and opens one of the massive sliding glass doors. He stares out into the bustling cityscape, the uniquely designed buildings and neatly flowing lines of traffic weaving between them. It reminds him a bit home and only now does he realize how thankful he is to be away from Byss. The Imperial capital was never as comforting as Coruscant had been. He exhales and steps out onto the durasteel patio, eyes wandering to the ominous and angular Gellar Tower.

Vex has never met Rutherford Gellar but he knows him by reputation. As it turns out, their connection goes deep into the past to a school that was obliterated when Coruscant was destroyed by agents of the former Dark Queen of Hapes. According to the reports, Rutherford's daughter, Blair, had a rather sordid affair with CorSec Major Kyri Patten which produced an illegitimate granddaughter who just happened to become a famed Corellian hero. In truth, he was never close to Valerie Gellar. He had been a grade above her at North Coruscant and, in all honesty, she scared the shit out of him most of the time. Valerie was, by far, the most menacing of their little group who used  her sexual energy to threaten and terrorize anyone who stood in her way. Although they ran in similar circles, Vex took considerable care to avoid her. Their social truce with his then-girlfriend, Tenley Price and her group of friends, kept Vex pretty much off-limits. He had always wondered what made Valerie so venomous and now he knows why. Her real family had given her up to a sociopath so that she could be raised beside her half-sister. Valerie spent her whole life never knowing who she actually was - a Corporate Sector heiress. Perhaps fate would have taken a different course had she remained in the Sector.

Guess no one would ever know.

The upside to this connection is that Vex would embellish his past with Rutherford's granddaughter and play upon his ignorance of her life in order to obtain certain information.

He turns and reenters the loft, unbuttoning his shirt as he walks into his sparsely furnished bedroom. He doesn't need much in the way of possessions, just the basics really. The only personal item that he has carried with him for years is the lone picture sitting on top of a black dresser. In it, he has his arm around a smiling Karen Winton as they posed on the sands of Imperial Beach on Hesperidium. Vex lifts the picture from the dresser and runs a finger over her perfect face.

Almost thirteen years ago, Karen and her three friends fled to the resort moon after Alexia Winton murdered their entire group of friends including Karen's long time boyfriend right before graduation. He had just returned on a summer break from the Carida Academy. With his own girlfriend missing and presumed dead, Vex had been feeling rather lonely. Karen was heartbroken and in serious need of a distraction that he was more than happy to briefly provide. And while his feelings for her surprisingly deepened, she remained detached and aloof, qualities that made her extremely attractive to him. She ended their affair shortly before he returned to the academy and the last kiss they shared is one he has never been able to forget. When she joined the Imperial diplomatic Corp, he was impressed and anticipated that she would eventually be assigned to a vessel he would possibly command. But her fate took a drastically different turn when the young Emperor Dementat broke from his tactical brilliance to court her. Out of all the women in all the Empire, Karen Winton was who the Emperor desired more than any other. Their romance and her training to become a Sith was widely covered in the press. His proposal wounded Vex deeply but he remained steady and pushed on. When she asked him for help securing an unmarked shuttle, he was intrigued but, as usual, she refused to provide any details. The last time he ever saw her was aboard Dementat's command ship, looking more dangerous and beautiful than ever before. She had been so close, throwing him a fleeting glance before rushing into the fray. Despite his longing, it had not been his place to try and stop her and because of this hesitation and adherence to protocol, he never saw her again.

Over the years, he's had his share of shallow encounters with gorgeous women from many systems but none ignited the spark Karen had. In another life, perhaps they could have been together and she may still be alive. It is a reality that has crossed his mind from time to time, resurfacing now that he would be dealing with both Gellar and Masterton.

They say time changes things when really, it's all the same just on a different stage.

Vex sets the picture back down and moves to his consol, accessing the net. Most of what he wants to know is now public knowledge, tied  back to the spectacular legacy of The Four. His interest is a bit more specific. He would be allowed to interact with Gellar on a professional level but the key was to infiltrate his personal life. In order to do that, he must find an opening. There is no way someone as reputable as Celeste Masterton would ever allow him near her or her children. He would have to work around her. Pulling up the listings on the D'ian System, he scrolls through until he finds the Gellar Estate. It is staffed mostly with service droids with the exception of two humans. Lord Gellar's valet, Garron Prescott who looks like a pretentious jackass. The other is his gorgeous ticket in.

Lady Masterton's aide, Kylie Miranda.


-TBC

[Syren]

Corporate Sector

D'ian System: Surface: Concordia Township

Vex Sienna struts into the center of town in the early afternoon. It's a quaint little place, all the modern facilities with a throwback style. There are no towers or large cities and everything is plotted at a suspiciously comfortable distance from each other with carefully manicured foliage intermixed with the light forests and sprawling meadows. The whole thing looks like some sort of fictional painting that stands in stark contrast to the densely populated capital city a few systems away.

He wears a pair of dark slacks, fitted gray bomber jacket and silver rimmed sunglasses and was only cleared to land under the auspices of a potential real estate transaction. Calls had been made, asking around about the current listings. Surprisingly, there are not many. Most of the estates are passed down through the generations and seldom on the market. He's been here for two days, trying to lay low and scope the scene but an outlander is big news in a place like this. Those that pass him on the streets either stare shamelessly or ignore him entirely then whisper about him later. Vex heard from a bar maid that some borium tycoon thinks he is nothing but a nuevo riche prick who doesn't belong here. He would have fed into their little gossip mongering if he didn't already know for a fact this uptight suburban oasis is really just a place to stash your wife and kids while you conducted both business and sexual affairs on Etti IV. So he smiled and complimented the bar maid on her career choice.

The au pair visits the same general store every afternoon and Vex has planted himself there when she breezes through the door, waving good-naturedly to the shopkeeper. Kylie Miranda is petite and charming but he is more blown away by how insanely attractive she is in person. Far too attractive for the dowdy clothing she has on. She looks like a goddess playing a schoolmarm. Blondish, five-four, button nose, and a smile that can seem almost naughty. She turns, catching him staring when he jerks and knocks several items off the shelf he was leaning into. She laughs and kneels down to help.

"The first time is always the hardest."

He is thrown by the possible subtext.

"I'm sorry?"

"Shopping for yourself," she says. "It gets easier the more you practice."

"What makes your think I've never done this before?"

They rise simultaneously, a stare down. She thinks she may have offended him and pardons herself.

"You don't strike me as the type to gather your own supplies."

Vex grins, "I'm a little offended."

"Oh, you are not," she says, moving around him. "Coy doesn't really work for you."
 
He follows as she gathers items into a basket.

"What makes you say that?"

"Outlanders are rarely offended by anything."
 
"Heard of me, have you?"

"If you haven't noticed, it's a rather small community. People tend to marvel at all things shiny and new."
 
"I take it you disapprove?"

She shrugs, "Gossip doesn't do anyone any favors."

"I'm the new rumor? Sweet."

A small laugh escapes her as she approaches the counter, paying for the groceries with a red CSA credit card. That type of card is usually reserved for those with phenomenal wealth. The Gellar-Masterton's must have given her quite the expense account. She thanks the shopkeeper and heads for the door. He trails behind.

"Where are you headed?"

"Back home."

"May I walk you?"

Kylie pauses, turning to stare up at him.

"You want...to walk me home?"

"What?" he says. "No one has manners around here?"

Actually, he was wondering why she had not sent one of the droids or, at the very least, traveled by speeder.
 
"Not virtual strangers."

"I'm Vex."

"Kylie. That's actually your name?"

"Hey," he says, faux-hurt. "That's not very neighborly."

She continues walking, "That's because we're not neighbors."

"We could be."

"Not likely, considering the Corinthos estate isn't for sale."

"How do you know I'm interested in buying?"

"Like I said, small community. Any luck on the listings?"

The street curves away from the town and past an expansive meadow.

"I have a showing tomorrow."

"Where?"

"The old Thibodaux place, I believe."

"Fancy," she says. "Just be careful. Some of the estate agents can be ruthless when it comes to closing a deal."
 
"Thanks for the tip."

He stops short. She takes several more steps before she does the same.

"What is it?"

"I thought I wasn't walking you home."

Kylie tilts her head to the side as if considering something.

"Show me your eyes."

Vex removes his sunglasses.

She smiles and hands him the bag of groceries.

"Can I trust you are a gentleman, Vex?"

He hefts the bag and falls into step beside her.

"Always."
 

-TBC

[Syren]

Corporate Sector

D'ian System: Surface: Concordia Township

The Gellar estate is impressive to say the least. Stately, ornate and beautifully kept up. As they approach the massive front steps, the door opens and a protocol droid appears who, after having an exchange with Kylie, takes the  groceries inside. She turns back to him, folding her hands in front of her.

"Well, I certainly appreciate the company."

"Don't get many suitors, do you? I find that hard to believe."

She smiles sweetly, "You say that like you know anything about me."

"I like what I know so far."

She laughs, "For an outlander, you're a riot."

Vex looks up at the estate, nodding thoughtfully.

"Gorgeous place," he says, knowing damn well it isn't hers. "Been in your family long?"

"Oh, I don't own the estate. My employers do."

"Really? And what do you do?"

Kylie answers with pride.

"I am the exclusive aide to Lady Masterton and the au pair to her three children. Well, only two of them now. The third is a teenager."

"Impressive," Vex replies with smiles. "Have you been with them long?"

Kylie Miranda grew up dirt poor on Etti IV. Her father was an engineer in the Cybot Galactica tower and her mother a seamstresses. They barely made enough to get by and certainly not enough to carry any clout in the executive driven sector capital. Those who do not make a profit are viewed as third class citizens, doomed to a life of serving everyone who did. Being their only child, her parents wanted so much more for her. She had dreams of attending university but the scholarship she competed for was lost to someone who could buy it simply for the prestige and not out of any necessity. Kylie was devastated and she almost gave up until she answered an ad seeking a professional aide. She traveled to the D'ian system along with many other girls her age. In the interview with Celeste Masterton, they bonded. Celeste was taken with her warmth and ability to converse so easily. It became less of an interview and more of a lovely conversation. Unbeknownst to her, Celeste had felt out each candidate through the Force, looking for a purity of soul, and called her the very next day to offer her the position. It required her to move permanently to D'ian but the compensation was beyond belief. Her duties expanded into au pair for the infant Dahlia then with the birth of the twins. She has grown to become an essential part of their household and is viewed, much like Garron Prescott, as a member of the family.

Kylie smiles at the fondness of the memories.

"For a long time."

Vex nods, glancing back down the road away from the estate.

"I suppose I should get going."

She taps a button on a wristband he didn't realize she was wearing. A speeder appears around the side of the house, stopping in front of him.

"The least I can do is provide transport back into town."

"That's really not necessary."

"I insist," she says warmly.

"That's very gracious of you."

Vex pauses before stepping into the speeder, turning back to her.

"Have dinner with me tomorrow night."

Kylie blushes but cannot help but smile.

"I'm not normally in the habit of accepting offers from strangers."

"That stings," he says. "I thought we were becoming friends."

"Are we?"

Vex  holds her gaze.

"You tell me. All I ask is the pleasure of your company."

She considers it for a moment. In truth, it has been far too long since a young and attractive man had called upon her. Aside from the occasional pass made by an intoxicated business associate of Lord Gellar's, Kylie Miranda has had little in the way of a social life and this charming outlander may be a nice change.

"Alright, Vex. I'd love to."


-TBC

[Syren]

Corporate Sector

D'ian System: Surface: Concordia Township

The following evening, Vex Sienna waits at the bar of the Tables Bistro sipping on their infused house martini. The showing at the Thibodaux estate earlier in the day had been a disaster. The old coot had been dead for a week before someone found him after he had fired his entire staff and became a recluse over two years prior. The place itself was in a state of disrepair as one could imagine. While the architecture was impressive, there would need to be far too much money put into it for updating to make it hypothetically worthwhile. The au pair was right about one thing, the estate agent was practically ruthless in his selling tactics in order to get if off the market quickly. Vex had politely declined as he never had any intention of purchasing it from the start. He spent the rest of the afternoon in his hotel room setting up meetings with various members of the Direx Board to secure further Imperial contracts. He had a lunch meeting with the feared Chiss arms dealer, Balthazar Nash, in two days. That contract alone would keep him in the Emperor's good graces.

The bistro is upscale but not overbearing with antique tables of varying sizes spaced evenly throughout the dining room. The bar has been restored from one of the original saloons when the system was first settled. The menu is expensive and not overly complicated. There is nothing worse than having to read a fucking novel of entree's and trying to select one before the wait staff became impatient.

Kylie Miranda steps into the restaurant exactly on time. She wears a simple black dress that is far more flattering than her outfit yesterday but not exactly pushing the limits of provocative. Still, she is radiant and it becomes clear to him that she is a woman who does not want to be judged by her appearance which is why she tries to conceal it. He stands to greet her.

"You look marvelous."

She blushes, "Thank you."

"They have a table for us if you are ready."

"Yes, thank you."

They are shown to a table by the window where he holds out a chair until she sits then rounds the table to sit in his own. She seems impressed with his manners. There are  some things from his North Coruscant prep school days he has not forgotten.

"How was the showing?" she asks after ordering a glass of wine.

He laughs, "Depressing."

"How so?"

"Have you seen the Thibodaux place?"

"Not in years. I heard Aldus Thibodaux went completely insane."

"You are not wrong there," he says, smiling broadly. "The estate was practically in shambles with parts of the garden literally infused with the house itself. The upstairs bedrooms were like a jungle adventure."

"I take it you won't be making the purchase?"

"Unfortunately not."

"That's a shame."

"Is it?"

She shrugs, thanking the sommelier for the wine and swirling it slowly around in the glass for almost a minute before running it beneath her nose. She then takes a careful sip and smiles with approval.

"The local vineyards always yield such interesting flavors. So much of the region comes into play. If you lived here long enough, you would be able to tell where it came from."

He watches her closely, completely fascinated.

"You are somewhat of an expert, I take it."

"I suppose you could say I have an appreciation for particular tastes and always support local businesses. It's good for the townships."

"I imagine it is," Vex says. "Just how many are there?"

"There are only ten townships in D'ian. Ours is a relatively small planet that prides itself on sustainability. Most of the surrounding area between the townships are farmland, vineyards or small refineries. Very little of what we have here is imported save for the luxury items brought in by the Lord's and Lady's of their respective estates."

"That's impressive."

"I like to think so," she says softly. "We take great pride in what we do and although we all may not own an estate ourselves, we provide a certain charm that most find lacking in the larger cities of the sector."

Vex nods, "I'll say. The most charming thing about this place is you."

She blinks, stunned, uncertain what to say.

"Have I offended you? I apologize."

"No, no," she says, semi-meekly. "It's just..."

"Don't get paid many compliments?"

"Not usually, no. At least not so boldly anyway."

"I'm afraid I am a bit direct. You did say I don't do coy very well."

She laughs, "I did, didn't I? Well, that wasn't very nice of me."

"It's okay, I'll live. Barely."

They smile at each other across the table until the waiter comes to take their orders. While they wait for their meals, they cover all the basics. Kylie grew up on Etti IV but left when she was offered the position at the Gellar Estate. She has no siblings and her parents both died several years ago. The sense of self she retains from her work is evident in how she speaks about it. She mentions the children, how incredible it has been to watch them grow up before her eyes. The eldest is a teenager and quite clever.

Vex reciprocates freely, avoiding any major plot points that would hamper the evenings progress. He was born and raised on Coruscant, an only child as well, and his parents were both killed when the capital was destroyed many years ago. He was in university off world when the news broke but there was nothing he could do.

They seem to bond over a shared loss of their parental figures. His tactful phrasing paints him as someone who may be more sensitive than he would care to admit and this makes him more endearing to Kylie.

After dinner, they walk back toward the Gellar Estate. He takes her hand and she allows it. The night is unseasonably warm and a perfect breeze carries the intoxicating scents of the nearby meadows. When they arrives on the front steps, he kisses her hand.

"It's been a lovely evening."

"Yes, it certainly has. I must return to Etti IV in the morning but I would very much like to see you again."

Kylie nods, "I would like that too."

"May I call upon you sometime soon?"

"You may."

Vex smiles and leans in to kiss her softly on the lips. The gesture is sweet and lacks the force or presumption most men would possess in a similar position. She blushes again, reluctantly letting go of his hand.

"Goodnight, Vex."

"Goodnight, Kylie."

As he wanders back toward the township, Vex feels something he has not felt in years. Something he never thought he would be capable of feeling again. Not since Karen's presence consumed him, haunting him in the years following her death. There was something in the kiss and he felt it briefly but powerfully.

A spark.



-TBC

[Syren]

Chandaar: Republic Capital

Surface: Ambaril

Counselor Circe Prescott returns to her apartment after another long day. With the Republic flooded with applicants from systems wishing to gain admittance, the Senate docket is packed. Each session swells with sob stories from Imperial alliances that turned deadly or formerly sovereign nations seeking to throw a little muscle behind their dictatorships. The cases are deliberated on the floor but swift action is hindered by the growing number of delegates who rarely share common interests. The Republic has begun to adopt new tactics that include sending their fleet of diplomatic counselors to wayward systems in order to gather information and meet with the representatives prior to their ambassadors coming before the Senate. It serves as sort of a screening process to assess need and verify claims.

Normally, she would love the idea of meeting so many new people but some of their applicants come from dangerous systems that could place the diplomat in significant jeopardy, especially as they hedge into Imperial Remnant territory. Emperor Schrag, once an Admiral in the Imperial Navy under Dementat, has been a little too quiet on the home front. This greatly worries both Republic and surrounding systems alike. No one quite knows what to expect save for that it more than likely will not be pretty or subtle.

Circe slips off her heels and pulls open the window before making herself a cocktail. Her apartment is near the center of the city, a short distance from the Senate hall. It's minimally decorated with accents of post-modern art pieces she has collected over the years. Her mind drifts to her brother and the Gellar-Masterton's. Garron had gone to the Corporate Sector to study corporate law and scored an internship after graduation at ChemiX under Rutherford Gellar. They formed a powerful bond during Rutherford's darker days and, in some ways, kept him from going over the edge entirely. Instead of applying as one of the many soulless ChemiX attorney's, a position he could have easily done and probably hated, Rutherford offered him another position entirely. While an aide may not seem glamorous to most, Garron became much more than that. He served as both valet and confidant to Lord Gellar and in addition to his executive level salary, Garron was put on a hefty retainer to provide counsel in any given situation. Circe had been surprised at the career move since her brother had almost always wanted to defend the often times morally grey areas of influential corporations but she supported his decisions none the less.

Circe, on the other hand, had returned to the Republic following the events on Corellia ten years prior. She pleaded her case to the powers that be but that was before they had reestablished themselves as a formal government body and driving galactic force. The guilt she felt in leaving before the Empire arrived was not easy to overcome but, like many in her field, she sought professional counseling to temper her feelings with the reality of the situation. Her progress was muddled by Celeste Masterton's presence in the Corporate Sector and caused distance from Garron. She had maintained verbal communication but never visited out of an underlying fear that Celeste would somehow be furious that she released Kent Carlson's story and blame her for leaving Melanie and Kimber behind. In the years that passed, she focused on her career and helped grow relations between the fledgling Republic and the systems who flocked to them. It was a fulfilling life, one she values greatly but there was something missing. Romance was never high on her priority list but she missed the companionship of her former cohorts. She had grown very close to Melanie Masterton and the Republic agents who kept them safe. They were like a family of sorts and years after they had  been lost, Circe realized she had cut herself off from other people. She feared that if anyone got close, they could be lost as well. Clearly, this was not a healthy pattern that she sought to rectify by taking the first step and approaching Celeste.

It had gone better than expected. Celeste had been so receptive to her and graciously bestowed mercy on her anguish. Melanie had ordered Circe to leave the High Commander's platform and return to the Republic. It is something she had told herself over and over again. Had she refused, she would have shared their fates. At least she lived to share the selfless way in which Melanie had cared for them all. It was something Celeste needed to hear. Her daughter was a hero who did what she felt best. There was no way anyone could have known how things would turn.

Circe sets down her glass and pads into her bedroom. She opens her closet and finds the box carefully hidden behind several blankets on the top shelf. Back in the living room, she sets the box down on the coffee table and sits on the couch. She stares at it for several minutes, running her fingers along the carved designs on the lid. It had been years since she had even brought it out. The memories were still fresh then. She had been so young when Melanie asked her to look after it. A fail-safe of sorts. Something to be passed down should anything happen to her. Melanie had made sure Circe had it with her when she left the Corellian Sector. Almost as if she had known.

Circe exhales and carefully opens the lid of the box.

Inside are two very important items.

The first is Melanie's original lightsaber, constructed on Yavin IV during her training. The second is the holocron containing the Persephonea Prophecy, translated by the Jedi and once sent to Kimber Patten when she was hiding in the Hapes Cluster. It had been returned when they regrouped on Arbra. Both items had been placed in the box and given to Circe before they fled to Corellia.

A part of her had wanted to bring these things to Celeste but felt that it may do more harm than good. The prophecy is something she was very familiar with as Melanie had broken it down and attached certain events and people to the deliberately vague text. They were trying to find a loophole in which the outcome, the birth of the Force messiah, could pass without interference. Finding none, Melanie knew the only way to ensure Kimber's safety was to face down Karen Winton. There is only one glaring fact Circe cannot overlook from the text. A fact that has stayed with her all this time.

And of The Four, only one can survive.

While Melanie was prepared to sacrifice her life for Kimber's, that was unfortunately not how the events of the past played out. Valerie had been killed by Phage and she can only speculate that Karen was slain by Melanie but both she and Kimber were lost when Centerpoint was destroyed.

So it seems in essence, the prophecy was wrong.

None of them survived.

Yet Melanie had believed in it fully and she was told a version of it was shown to their parents, including Celeste. Circe is uncertain as to how much of it Celeste actually knows and to reveal more than what was in Carlson's story may inflict deeper pain but it may also provide a sense of closure not afforded to Celeste and Rutherford.

Rutherford's clash with the Federation before the Senate and the mysteriously knowledgeable Ambassador Tacofer give Circe considerable pause. The recent leak of information regarding several senator's has served to pull back the spotlight from Gellar's statements and family to focus on the more present lurid scandal. She is hesitant to believe this was done solely by Rutherford which means he had inside help. Circe had not fed Garron information and it seems unlikely Celeste knew of the senator's affairs. There is word that Gellar and Tacofer are scheduled to hold closed door meetings, the nature of which is unknown. Would Rutherford even consider working with the Ambassador unless there was a common goal? Or a common threat, perhaps? Celeste had mentioned this woman, Mara Tacofer, knew things about their lives, things no one could possibly know. Is there a connection between them all or is she simply reaching into the paranoia that once plagued their small group a decade ago?


-TBC

[Syren]

Corporate Sector

Surface: Etti IV: Mondder

Vex Sienna returns to the Sector capital for a slew of meetings with prospective vendors. There are three companies the Empire values more than any others and he is expected to foster and maintain partnerships with the executives who sit on the Direx Board. This could gain them the clout they so desperately need in the wake of the Republic's resurgence.

Cybot Galactica (CG) - Finnius Dyre.

Palace Arms (PA) - Balthazar Nash.

ChemiX (CX) - Rutherford Gellar.

Droids, weapons and pharmaceuticals. They would need mass production of all three in order to stage a comeback on the scale Emperor Schrag desires. They would provide the groundwork for their new Imperial infrastructure and Vex is determined to get it for them. His first meeting is a dinner with Finn Dyre, a mousey and unassuming man who was much better with numbers than he was with public relations. It does not matter if the end result falls in their favor.

Vex meets him at an upscale eatery called Corridor 44 which is a hotspot for the wealthiest executives and almost impossible to get into unless you had some sort of standing. Dyre was apparently a regular although Vex cannot imagine him frequenting a place so lively. He approaches the table with confidence and introduces himself. Dyre stands and firmly shakes Vex's outstretched hand. Once they are both seated, the waiter arrives to take their drink order. Vex defers to Finn and asks what he would suggest, a classic move to show they are open to the way CG does things. Finn proposes he try a local seasonal ale that quenches the thirst while not holding back with the flavor.

When the drinks arrive, Vex is not disappointed. They toast but Finn is curious as to the nature of their meeting. Vex casually explains that he prefers to know those he would be working with more personally than faces sitting across from him in board meetings. This seems to relax Finn quite a bit and they order several unique tapas.

As the dinner progresses, Finn loosens up considerably after the second round. Vex admits they are looking to secure a contract for a hefty order, if Cybot Galactic was willing to take it on. He hopes there would not be too many invasive questions. After all, it is their business to provide a product without cross-examining their clients. Vex explains that he would send Finn the specifics of their order for CG to provide a bid on. He would then propose the bid to the Emperor on Byss and, if it was to his liking, Vex would schedule a time to sign the contracts on the Empire's behalf. Finn finds this information relatively straightforward and agrees to look over the order to see what they can do. They chum it up a bit before parting ways, a role Vex is no stranger to playing. It has been a long time since the days of the dazzling diplomat's who could charm system delegates despite the lack of formal training. Not that it hadn't been an effective tactic considering Contruum is still securely under Imperial control. In the Corporate Sector, however, it would take more than a blackmailed socialite to get the job done.

After dinner, Vex wanders the avenues of shops. Kylie Miranda had called earlier to say hello and they talked for almost an hour. In truth, she had not been far from his thoughts but he has to remind himself that she is only a mark and nothing more. Still, he rationalizes a way into Gellar's world without using her as collateral damage. Vex does not know how long this assignment would last but if he secured these contracts and maintained relations, he has a sneaking suspicion that he could move around and do as he pleased, up to and including a legit relationship with Kylie. A part of him longed for a return to a more traditional life after the years of infighting and confusion. It had been difficult to hold some of the systems that had aligned with them after the battle of Centerpoint. Some had come to see reason while others left them no choice but to invade. The rest seemed to vanish into the Republic's expanding influence and were granted admission. Those that did were earmarked for future conquest once the Empire had regained it military might.

With the ramp in production, the shipyards would now be teaming as the Emperor laid down plans for the new fleets. It would only be a matter of time before the galaxy once again feared the Empire.

None more than the Republic.


-TBC

[Syren]

Corporate Sector

D'ian: Surface: Concordia Township

As the school break draws to a close, Muriel Monroe decides to host a pool party. Being that her mother is a famous holoactress, people that are considered popular from her class and above are invited to the event. As much as she loathes her mother sometimes, her fame does open quite a few doors without question. She isn't close with very many at Valor Prep but her insecurities gave way to loneliness and she sent messages to a select few.

In some circles, this is called an establishing shot.

Of those in attendance, Trichelle Corinthos is the one at the center of attention. She is a class above Muriel and comes from money so old they can almost trace it back to the foundation of the sector itself. Her father owns some kind of utility which she has heard is fairly vital to almost everything. Her assumed boyfriend, Kier Kincaid lounges nearby having apparently inherited the same chiseled good looks as his retired pro-athlete father who now owns a successful string of luxury speeder dealerships.

Muriel is not as well versed in the sly tactics of socialization so she slips on a pair of sunglasses and dips her feet into the pool. A shadow falls across her and when she looks up, Tobias Harkan is smiling down.

"Mind if I sit with you?"

"Not at all."

He sticks his long legs into the cool water and sighs. Tobias is something of a rebel at Valor Prep with a rap sheet of infractions longer than most. His father heads up a booming medical practice on Etti IV specializing in plastic surgery that is widely considered to be the best in the sector. The sizable donations the practice makes to their school is probably the only reason Tobias hasn't been expelled.

"Nice of you to throw a party."

She shrugs, "It's the least I could do before we head back to school."

"You don't seem to be having a good time."

"Are you?"

"That's not what I asked."

Muriel smiles, "Boy, nothing gets past you."

"Well, it just seems to me like you are a bit uncomfortable in the hosting role. Could this be true?"

"Maybe."

"How come?"

Muriel nods to Trichelle and those swarming around her.

"It's hard to compete with someone like that hogging up the spotlight."

Tobias flashes a devilish grin, "No one said there can only be one spotlight."

"Oh yeah? I doubt the Espos would allow it."

"I won't tell if you won't."

"Still, I'll never be as attractive as Trichelle."

"No," Tobias says. "You are more so."

She blinks, stunned.

"You're crazy."

"Not even. Want to know why?"

She nods.

"Trichelle Corinthos is undeniable hot but she knows it. That tarnishes the shine a bit. But you? You are equally hot but have absolutely no idea. I think that puts you in a far better position. Contrary to popular belief, guys prefer real girls to the fake ones."

Muriel blushes, "Thanks, Tobi."

"I do what I can. Besides, look around. Everyone here - no, everyone in Concordia - is attractive. I think they exile you if you aren't. Something about zoning laws and such."

She laughs.

Tobias touches her hand as he pulls his legs from the water and stands up.

"Don't change who you are to please them. Just be you. I certainly am."

She feels a little better watching him walk away, thinking maybe not everything has to be a competition. Let Trichelle have her power and her mindless minions. Muriel stands and pads back into the house, angling toward the kitchen. She opens the fridge and pulls out an ice cold pitcher of juice, pouring herself a glass. When she turns around, Kier is leaning against the bar.

"Oh, hey Muriel."

"Hi, Kier"

"Does your mother keep any clear liquor in the house?"

She giggles, "I think she only drinks clear liquor. Something her trainer told her about calories."

"I've heard that somewhere."

Muriel moves past him and slides open a panel on the desk, withdrawing a bottle and handing it to him.

"Just don't puke in the pool, okay?"

Kier laughs, "It's not for me but I'll spread the word."

He moves back toward the open slider then pauses, turning back to her.

"Muriel?"

"Yes?"

"Is...Dahlia coming?"

She shakes her head, "I'm afraid not. She's still on Chandaar with her parents."

"Bummer."

"Tell me about it. Should I let her know you asked?"

Kier nods, "Sure. It's just, she should be here with us, you know?"

"I know."

Once he heads poolside, Muriel cannot contain herself and pulls out her comlink. She catches Dahlia's voicemail but decides it's too important to wait.

"Hey, it's me. You'll never guess who just asked about you?"


-TBC

[Syren]

Chandaar: Republic Capital

Surface: Ambaril

Janessa Kain pulls the thin bed sheet around her and glances down at the cityscape below. Behind her, Senator Medio buttons up his shirt and reties his tie. The lunch hour is quickly drawing to a close and their tryst, while satisfying, is now in danger.

“I don’t think we should see each other anymore.”

He is caught off-guard and protests but she pointedly brings to his attention the recent scandals plaguing other members of the Senate. Information had been leaked and reputations were now in jeopardy. She does not wish to join the ranks of mistresses maligned in the press. Even though they had been careful, she ends the affair on the spot and sends him out the back to his speeder idling in the ally. This is not her first dalliance with a public official and certainly won’t be her last. In fact, there is clinical term for her compulsive need to sexualize her colleagues and her increasingly predatory behavior. She just needs to be more careful from here on out.

After a shower, Janessa dresses in her typically conservative business attire. She must play a role, after all. As the liaison between the Republic and Corporate Sector, her mediation skills are often required as the Sector delegates can be ruthless to the point of bloodshed if she isn’t quick to soften the idealistic Republic policies that infuriate them. The Sector deals strictly in bottom lines and deviations from that are not well received. Under normal circumstances, she could bed down the executives sent to do business here and in doing so learn things vital to Republic-Sector operations.

That is, until Rutherford Gellar showed up.

His notorious snobbery aside, Gellar is traveling with his wife and children and Celeste Masterton is not a woman to be trifled with. She is the mother of a Jedi who became a martyr to the cause. She is also highly favored and has a resoundingly positive reputation throughout the Sector. Knowing what she does about those families, Janessa is smart enough to leave well enough alone. After Gellar’s statements before the Senate, she has been instructed by her superiors to watch him carefully. Unfortunately, he has informed her that he would be attending closed-door meetings with the Federation Ambassador. She had reported this back to the Senate and noted that the meetings seemed to appear on a positive tone. This would buy them time to work through their differences or continue blackmailing each other until they were blue in the face – whichever they preferred.

Janessa has become concerned by the media attention swarming around the Gellar-Masterton family. Stranger still is how rapidly the attention was diverted by the suspiciously well-timed release of lurid details about certain Senator’s personal lives. Suspicious enough that Janessa has doused her impulses to remain out of the line of fire. She wonders just what will be discussed in this closed door meeting between Sector and Federation and how the outcome will affect the Republic as a whole.


-TBC

[Syren]

Corporate Sector

Etti IV: Surface: Mondder

Vex Sienna shakes the cobalt tinted hand of Balthazar Nash. The imposing Chiss owns and operates Palace Arms, the largest weapons manufacturer in the Corporate Sector. All Espos and a fair amount of Republic agents carry his weapons. Now, he has signed one of the most lucrative deals in being the exclusive provider of weapons and artillery for the Imperial Remnant. Palace Arms had developed powerful hybrid blasters, rifles and launchers capable of destruction on a massive scale. The Republic has refused to consider them, favoring more traditional side arms but the Emperor has no qualms with acquiring such a dangerous assortment of instruments. He requested Sienna present Nash a special gift as a token of their appreciation, a priceless Chiss relic, that shows deep respect. The Emperor would be pleased by the response and Nash arranges for a round of product testing at the end of the week and, if they were satisfied with the results, the first shipment ready soon after.

Vex thanks him again and disappears into the crowds along the promenade's of Mondder. He is running late but does not increase the speed of his step. The triumph must be savored. It eases the anxiety over the fact that Finnius Dyre at Cybot Galactica is stalling on the bids for their contracts. He needs both executives in the Emperor's pocket. Rutherford Gellar has yet to return from Chandaar or report any progress in the dispute between the Sector and Federation which has angered the Direx Board. While this prevents him from approaching Gellar in regards to ChemiX contracts it does give him more time to spend with Kylie Miranda. He was able to coax her away from D'ian for a dinner on Mondder which is where he is heading now.

Kylie is waiting at a table at Cafe/Bar, one of the trendy eateries that have opened in midtown. He swoops in and smiles.
 
"So sorry to keep you waiting."

She laughs, "It's fine. I arrived early to visit some old friends. I don't often get back to Mondder."

After he is seated, she orders a glass of wine while he opts for a dark ale.

"Do you miss it?"

"At times," she says, almost hesitantly. "I've grown fond of the casual pace of life in D'ian."

"That's understandable."

"You, I take it, prefer the bustle of the city?"

"Born and raised city boy," Vex says. "Something about the energy and architecture."

Kylie's eyes shimmer as she raises the glass to her lips.

"Somehow that doesn't surprise me."

His com-link bleeps, almost unheard in the din of the restaurant. He frowns, pulling it out of his pocket. The incoming ID is from Byss.

"It's okay," she says. "Work is work."

Vex nods, stands and steps out onto the patio.
 
"Sienna."

"It's Pallus."

Agent Burke Pallus had been a long-time buddy and confidante through their days at the Carida Academy. He was almost killed in a training exercise involving Alexia Winton under the command of Tanner Graves.

"Pallus! How the hell are you?"

"Could be better," he says tightly. "Things going well in the Corporate Sector?"

"So far, so good. The beauty is the executives here could care less about faction when there is a monetary value attached. It's the universal language."

"That's promising. You'll need those contracts."

"You say that like I don't already know what's at stake."

"More than you may realize, my friend."

"What?" Vex says, suddenly uneasy. "What are you saying?"

"There have been rumors of an uprising," Pallus replies. "The Moff Council is dead."

"The Emperor had them killed?"

"Shot right out of the sky for all of Byss to see."

"A bit theatrical, don't you think?"

Pallus laughs hollowly, "But none the less effective. Schrag is looking for loyalty and results, Vex. Deviation will not be tolerated."

He turns, glancing through the giant window at Kylie sitting demurely at their table. She smiles and waves. He returns the gesture, speaking slowly into the com.

"I appreciate the call, Burke."

"Watch your back."

The line cuts out as Vex stands holding the com-link, staring out into the crowded promenade.


-TBC

[Syren]

Dathomir

The caves hum with the dark energies of the Voss-Ra as the elders come together in prayer. Through their powerful magic's, they have also sensed a disruption in the Force. While they themselves are not considered sensitive in the traditional sense, they do share a connection and methods of detection. This means their foot soldier had done his job in making contact and confirmed their suspicions. The side on which the last Winton royal would fall is where they now focus their thoughts.

The Voss-Ra elders meditate deeply, chanting in a language long forgotten by most. They are, by historical accounts, descendants of the original inhabitants of Korriban that spawned the Sith. Forsaking traditional Force practices, they had turned to esoteric and malevolent magic that granted them immense power and clarity including the ability to glamour an appearance of those they wished to imitate and allow them the freedom to infiltrate otherwise inaccessible avenues. Their scarred flesh is self-inflicted through ritual burning and mutilation. The physical agony releases them from the mortal plane and connects them to the dark forces swirling beneath the surface of the worlds. Cannibalistic and ruthless, they seek only a galaxy destabilized in chaos and horror.

The Republic threatens this goal as does the questionable legacy of The Four.

Their oracles have foreseen an infection of darkness, nation turning upon nation, kin upon kin, until the all systems are stained crimson with the blood of trillions. They have also seen the legacy as means to prevent this, to give back what their sacred Abominations had taken away. To circumvent peace and be granted immortality, their oracles have seen only true path.

Consume the hearts of the legacy and the galaxy will fall.


-TBC

[Syren]

Chandaar: Republic Capital

Surface: Ambaril

Garron Prescott had been given leave during the negotiations and after he swung by to drop off the vaccine for Lord Gellar, he departed to attend a rather surprising lunch invitation from Janessa Kain, the Republic liaison to the Corporate Sector. She was nearing thirty or so but never looked a day over twenty-two and had been in the position since the Republic had established themselves in the wake of the Centerpoint battle. She was well-known through the sector, mostly due to her extensive knowledge in the customs of various races, particularly the history and tradition of the most powerful families. She was beautiful and clever but her methods seemed calculated, as if she always had her own agenda. He supposed everyone does. Garron had spoken and met with her on many occasions, most recently to coordinate Lord Gellar's trip to the capital. These interactions had never been more than business formalities but the request is one he can capitalize on.

He meets her at Opal, an upscale bistro near the Senate hall. They are seated promptly despite the waiting list. Janessa's clout bypasses such things and soon they are enjoying afternoon cocktails.

"It's nice to be able to finally sit down with you."

Garron regards her curiously, "Is it? I was under the impression I hardly registered to you."

"Why would you say that?"

"I'm merely a valet."

"Oh," Janessa says, slyly. "You much more than that. Besides, it is my responsibility to familiarize myself with sector contacts which allows me to better serve you."

"That's probably a smart business move."

She pushes her dark hair over her shoulder and smiles, "I'd like to think so. May I ask how you are enjoying your time in the Republic capital thus far?"

"I suppose that will depend on the outcome in the Senate."

"True enough," she says lightly. "I was not expecting such a personal appeal from Lord Gellar."

Garron takes a sip and tilts his head.

"Nor was I."

"No doubt the Federation put him in a bind. A shame, really. Using his past against  him in such a way. I had not made the connection to Valerie Gellar until it was spoken aloud although a part of me had always figured as much. They have similar characteristics."

"Do they?"

She shrugs, "Both the former Corellian Governess and Lord Gellar are passionate and fiercely driven. After the hearings, I decided to brush up on the subject in the event of further questioning when I realized how, despite reports to the contrary, what Valerie Gellar did for Corellian people was a truly selfless sacrifice."

Garron nods slowly, "Indeed."

"It was inspiring none the less. Any word on how the discussions are going?"

"Nothing solid, only that they are ongoing. I believe the tone is a positive one."

"What makes you so sure?"

"I think Lord Gellar and the Federation Ambassador realize that referencing a past neither than change will not benefit the Republic in the present. In the end, I think cooler heads will prevail."

Janessa grins, raising her glass, "I'll drink to that."

They toast.

"There is something I wanted to ask."

She leans forward, "Certainly. How can I help?"

"I see you have considerable social sway on Chandaar. Does this, perhaps, extend to the media as well?"

Janessa arches a brow, "It might. Go on."

"Lady Masterton and the children were asked along on a supportive field trip of sorts. They had never been to the capital and thought it could be educational. They did not expect the scene that unfolded nor were they prepared for the ambush the local press pulled while they were exploring the city. Lady Masterton is very protective of the children and their exposure combined with the salacious innuendo's have everyone concerned."
 
"That's understandable."

"If they were my own children, I would not want them exposed to the politics of adults. They grow up too fast as it is."
 
"So I hear," she says, lowering her voice. "Is this something you wish me to remedy?"

"If you would be so kind."

Her gaze becomes something else entirely.

"I think it can be arranged."

*

Back in his suite at the Hotel Ovallus, Garron dresses quietly and pads back out in the living room. It was a small and thrilling price to pay for the protection of those he serves. Janessa had left to meet with her contacts, leaving him alone to finish up some work. With any luck, she would be able to erase any mention and associated photage from the public record.

The message he received from Lord Gellar implemented their secondary protocol in concealing Dahlia's identity from the public.

The Force vaccine is merely part of it. The children had  been slowly weaned off it over the years as there had been no sign of any threat. Now, it seems, that may have been premature. Garron draws up the paperwork to seamlessly change Dahlia's last name from Greyson to Gellar and his extensive network within the Corporate Sector municipalities could ensure this would overwrite any previous documentation that said otherwise. It had been suggested when Lord Gellar legally adopted Dahlia but Lady Masterton had insisted Dahlia retain some of her heritage in honor of the slain Queen. Rutherford had not fought her on it then but had tasked Garron with having such documents ready if and when the time arose. These documents, when finished, would be forwarded to the D'ian system and into the Valor Prep database. The name Greyson would cease to exist as if Dahlia had always been part of the Gellar-Masterton family. In essence, that is the truth.

Dahlia had been raised exclusively by Rutherford and Celeste. They are the only parents she knows. The recent events had piqued her curiosity and a part of him was in favor of her finding out the truth but not at the expensive of Dane and Gemma's safety. He had to consider the family as a whole, including Lord and Lady alike. In some ways, they had become his family too and Garron would protect them as such.

Very few knew the actual truth about Dahlia Winton and the bloodline she continues.

Garron intends to keep it that way.


-TBC

[Syren]

Chandaar: Republic Capital

Surface: Ambaril

Celeste and the children return to the Hotel Ovallus where they prepare for their departure back to the Corporate Sector. It may have appeared a bit hasty but with good reason. School was on the verge of beginning again and she would hate for the children to be unprepared. This jaunt had unsettled their routine and to be honest, it had unsettled Celeste as well.

Mara Tacofer may appear helpful but she has much to hide. Of that much, she is certain. She had been able to connect Dahlia to the Winton's much too easily and implied genetic characteristics that made no sense for a Federation Ambassador to possess. True, Mara had taken down Alexander Winton and acquired his files but there should be no such file on Dahlia. Alexander never knew about Monica's pregnancy or that he had a third child who, with the help of Master Corrin, escaped Naboo with Celeste.

Unless he did know.

The Jedi Master had vanished shortly after the twins were born.

No one knows what became of him.

Celeste forces back a wave of nausea that threatens to overcome her. This is not the time for negative thinking. Despite their misgivings about one another - Mara, Celeste and Rutherford were going to have to work together to ensure no part of Alexander Winton's agenda resurfaces. It was something no one could allow. The mere notion of a plot simmering over the course of the last decade toward a boiling point is enough to send Celeste into a panic. As a mother, her primary instinct is to protect her children and getting them out of the Republic capital seems like a perfect place to start.

Gemma and Dane seem agitated.

"Why can't we stay here with dad?"

"We can keep Riley company."

"Yeah! We never get to make any new friends!"

Celeste sighs, "You have plenty of friends, my darlings."

"Only in Concordia," Dane grumbles.

"It's okay," Gemma says, comforting him. "We'll see Riley again."

"Yes, you will. So let's focus on packing."

They saunter off toward their rooms.

Just as Celeste has that settled, Dahlia rounds the corner with the hotel com-link to her ear.

"I got a message from a woman at the Nalaa Grey public relations department asking if I would be interested in modeling-"

"No," Celeste says firmly. "Absolutely not."

"Mom!"

"Please stop whining, Dahlia. I am not in the mood for it right now."

She huffs and puffs, "I can't even meet with her? That's so unfair!"

Gathering herself, Celeste stops and turns around slowly.

"Dahlia, fashion modeling is a highly competitive industry that places value solely on personal appearance while advocating unhealthy habits that endanger many young women."

Dahlia shrugs.

"I'm not seeing the problem."

"Well, I do."

"Wasn't Melanie a model for Raga'Ana?"

The question is simple enough and not intended as a dig but it stings none the less. This is not the time nor the place to get into a discussion on such a scale.

"Yes," Celeste says evenly. "That is how I know it is not a good idea and I will not be questioned to the contrary. We are returning to the sector where you will resume your studies and that's that. Is there any part of what I just said that is in any way unclear?"

"No."

"Good. Now, gather your things. We are leaving."

*

Garron Prescott meets them out in the hall. Hotel staff already has their luggage down in their transport. Garron heads up the security detail and escorts them to the shuttle platform.

"Safe travels, Lady Masterton. I will make sure Lord Gellar's business is concluded smoothly."

"I appreciate that," Celeste says warmly. "Please send my regards to your sister and let her know she is welcome to visit any time."

"She'll be thrilled to hear it."

Celeste nods and follows the children up the ramp. Night has fallen, staining the sky a brilliant amber. Once everyone is buckled up tight, Celeste fastens herself in and exhales slowly. She would be glad to return to the lush D'ian landscape. The shuttle idles momentarily before lifting off the platform and streaking up across the sky. There is a bit of turbulence as it breaks through the atmosphere but as the nav computers complete their calculations, the shuttle flares into hyperspace headed home.


-TBC