CC: The Crimson Covenant

[Medivh]

Chandaar: Republic Capital

Surface: Ambaril: Hotel Mermeia

While Riley slept, Mara spent the evening doing her research.  She knew Gellar's role in working with Alexander Winton and the GURI Project.  Gellar had been complacent in the project, allowing Winton and Medivh to obtain Valerie's DNA as a template for Phage's program (and ultimately, for her own).  But about his other activities, Mara knew fairly little. Hence the research.

That night, Mara learned about Rutherford's prominence on Corellia and years later, in the Corporate Sector.  Another name kept appearing in the reports of him as well. Celeste. Mara found the connection uncanny. And stupid.  If he was trying to hide his tracks, he should have done a better job.

The research brought a lot of emotions to Mara.  Memories of the past, long stored but not accessed. Her relationship with Karen Winton, Corellia, Medivh, Phage ... all the players in her story.  Suddenly coming to the surface.  And Mara was preparing to use that to her advantage. For the Trade Federation's advantage.

**********************

The next morning, Mara is preparing for the meeting.  Rutherford Gellar agreed to meet in the lobby of her building, a sign that indicated he was intrigued or nervous enough to cede home turf, but not enough for a more private meeting.  She looked at herself in the mirror.  Eyes and facial structure still bore a resemblance to Valerie, though makeup and a few subtle changes made it less remarkable.  Hair was shorter and a lighter color.  Gellar might recognize her face, but he wouldn't be staring at a ghost of Valerie.  That was for the best.  He would already have too many questions about how she knew what she knew.  A smart suit in subtle colors and she was ready to go.

**********************
The turbolift took her down to the lounge, and she glanced around slowly before spotting him.  Rutherford Gellar.  Again, the emotion, betrayal, filled her but she hid it beneath a cool exterior, making her way up to him and offering a professional handshake.

"Mr. Gellar - An honor to finally meet you. I am Mara Tacofer.  I've heard so much about you and your exploits.  The force vaccine, truly a genius invention.  I imagine the Jedi were equally thrilled and frightened by what it meant."

She glanced around, being sure no one else was around before continuing to speak.

"Of course, you and I both know that the reason it was created was because you were on the run and hiding.  Now, as for your testimony today, I am sure you intended to cast blame on the Trade Federation for the droid armies of Phage and for the suffering of Corellia.  But we know the Trade Federation wasn't at fault.  Phage's programming was sabotaged by Alexander Winton.  The Trade Federation was a victim, like everyone else, of those who worked with Winton.  On the GURI Project.  And I know that you worked with Winton, because I have in my possession a copy of the GURI Project files.  You and Winton created many victims.  Valerie, for example."

It was at this point that her voice could no longer conceal the anger she was feeling toward him at that moment.

"Your own flesh and blood.  You let your granddaughter be a sacrificial lamb to Alexander Winton's plotting.  I hope that is something that haunts you every night"

She paused, again putting on the more professional tone.

"Anyhow, as I was saying - if you aren't careful about what you say before the senate today, I will take my evidence of your involvement in the development of Phage and the death of your own descendant - and I have a fair amount of evidence - and I will not only use it to embarrass the Corporate Sector, but to utterly destroy you and your reputation. In and out of the Corporate Sector."

She stood up from where they had been sitting, and she offered a smile.

"And please, offer Melanie's mother my best wishes"

Mara didn't wait for him to speak, didn't wait for a response.  She turned and walked away, back to the turbolift.  At the very least, she knew she must have shaken him. Mentioning the GURI Project would definitely worry him.  She only hoped that he would worry enough to not be as forceful before the Senate today.  The Trade Federation had enough work cut out for it without the negative imagery of Phage being brought up again.  But she had rushed out because she wanted the last word. It wasn't a confrontation, a conversation - it was her getting in what she wanted to say, needed to say, and not letting him justify his actions. Not to her, not to anyone.

TBC

[Syren]

Chandaar: Republic Capital

Surface: Ambaril

Rutherford Gellar can do nothing but sit rigid in the chair as Mara Tacofer delivers the information as a blatant and menacing threat. Her words, hurled at him with a hushed venom, are more brutal spoken aloud than they had been within his own head.

The silence that follows her abrupt departure is like a void.

Careful not to appear as distraught at he feels, Rutherford reaches for his coffee and brings it to his lips. It appears the Federation has been playing it a bit close to the chest. He suddenly wonders if D'Ken Dawning is privy to these facts as well. Perhaps that is why he was chosen to represent them. The Sector has done worse. Has he been sent to the gallows with just enough rope to hang himself? He shutters, barely managing to avoid spilling the remainder of the coffee. One thing is certain.

Mara Tacofer knows much more than she should - yet she significantly overstates her hand. The Force vaccine is public knowledge attached both to him and his company. To say that he worked with Alexander Winton, however, is a stretch. He has never heard of the GURI project nor was he involved with it. The files she speaks of must reference him in some way but not in the way she thinks. Winton was very clear in his intentions, acting on behalf of that scoundrel Patten. The Corellian Major's affair with his daughter, Blair, was enough to make his blood boil. Blair had been a precocious teenager who had happened to meet Kyri Patten while he visited the Corporate Sector with others from CorSec during a conference with the Espos. He's not sure how their paths managed to cross but before Rutherford could do anything about it, Blair was pregnant. After Valerie was born, Alexander Winton appeared seemingly out of nowhere but with a very specific purpose. Back then, Rutherford was still building his empire and more concerned with reputation and appearances than the wellbeing of his family.

Giving up Valerie to Alexander Winton had spared him the shame and Blair the scrutiny and judgment of those within the Concordia Township. He thought he was doing right by them all. Winton disappeared with his granddaughter, Blair threw herself from the top of the Gellar Tower and his first wife, Abra, fell ill and died.

All because Patten needed his daughters to be raised together and Winton needed them to be introduced to the others.

The Four.

Then there is Celeste.

Sweet, sweet Celeste.

The vaccine had kept her hidden through the Force but when they married, she once again appeared on the public radar. She had hyphenated her last name out of respect to her first husband, assumed dead after they heard about the speeder crash on Bakura that took the life of her best friend and Dahlia's mother, Queen Greyson. Mara would not have to dig far to find her and make the connection if she was already loaded with intel on the others.

The mention of Melanie's name sends a chill down his spine.

That poor girl.

One could say they had both been cowardly but that's not entirely true. Rutherford could not face what he had done and left Valerie at the mercy of Phage. That is his burden to bare, one that still haunts him. Celeste, however, had every intention of storming back into the fray to rescue both Melanie and her friends from the clutches of the Persephonea Prophecy. It was the Jedi Master Corrin who prevented this from happening, insisting that their interference would jeopardize their lives. What he thought was a crock of shit then now makes a terrifying sense. Perhaps it had to happen the way it did. They all perished for a greater purpose. The Empire was taken down and Corellia was set free. This clarity is not something he has shared with his second wife simply because it would hurt her. It hurts him, deeply. Indeed there were many victims, Valerie and Melanie among them.

So his sins are numerous but he most certainly did not help with the creation of Phage.

That statement stings the worst.

The insinuation alone is insulting.

The anger swells, staining his vision red. When it subsides he knows what  he must do. He stands, leaving a hefty tip, and then casually walks out of the lounge. Back at the Hotel Ovallus, he takes a moment. The morning sun is starting to rise as he signals for the valet. A hoverlimo materializes out of the sea of transports which he finds himself climbing into. The drivers voice barks through the speakers.

"Where to, sir?"

"The Senate hall."

"Right away, sir."

Rutherford sits back and withdraws his com.

She answers on the second ring.

"Darling! How did it go?"

He keeps his voice even but firm.

"I need you and the children to stay away from the Senate today."


-TBC

[Syren]

Chandaar: Republic Capital

Surface: Ambaril: Senate Hall

Rutherford's security detail catches up with him at the hall led by Garron Prescott. His valet is gravely concerned, fueled by Celeste's surprise at his request to refrain from the hearings. Garron knows when not to raise questions and falls into a steady stride beside his employer.

Janessa Kane is waiting for them and can read the expression on his face as a cue to dispense with the pleasantries.
 
"This way, Lord Gellar. They are announcing you now."

Now is the time for bravery over cowardice.

It is what Celeste would call a breakthrough.

They appear on the Senate floor as the gavel is struck, calling the meeting to order.

"Rutherford Gellar, CEO of the Corporate Sector's largest research-based pharmaceutical company ChemiX, has the floor."

He steps forward and straightens his shoulders, keeping his head slightly angled upward.

"Great leaders of the Republic, I stand before you as a representative of the Corporate Sector in gratitude for our continued business partnership. We are honored to be a part of your growth within the galaxy. The success of our mutually beneficial trade is based on a foundation of trust and professionalism. We are fully committed to ensuring this union develops into a lasting cooperative effort that provides for the Republic in a sustainable manner."

His eyes briefly scan the room, needing to watch the reaction as he takes the wind out of her wicked sails.

"However, my purpose here is not purely professional. News of the Trade Federations request for permits has reached our Direx Board and while we strongly encourage free enterprise, we also feel this would be a costly and perhaps fatal mistake."

Murmurs echo throughout the hall.

Rutherford's voice remains steady as he reclaims control of his own past.

"Almost twelve years ago, my granddaughter Valerie Gellar died at the hands of a Federation machine known to the worlds as the Baron Phage. My role in her presence there began when she was just an infant. A man by the name of Alexander Winton, working both with the Galactic Empire and Trade Federation, convinced me she would be better off with her biological father on Corellia. As much as it pained me and as much as I regret it now, I cannot deny my actions. The Federation will have you believe this act led to the creation of Phage and that I am somehow responsible for the terror and destruction it caused. These connections were unknown to me until earlier this morning when Federation negotiator Mara Tacofer threatened to use this information as means to circumvent a negative testimony to their true intentions on Chandaar."

He pauses, invigorated by the gasps from the crowd.

"What I will not do is stand before you and tell you I am blameless, that I have not done things in my past that I wish I had not. I have tried to live a life of moral and professional integrity despite claims the Federation will make to the contrary. The past paints a picture but does not define a person. The Federation has alleged the same yet their consistent deception, manipulation and treachery cannot be overlooked. They come before you with claims they are no longer what they once were. Yet their representatives employ the same underhanded tactics to achieve results the Corporate Sector has accomplished on our own merits. In spite of its revamped image, the Trade Federation is merely the same monster with a different face. They nearly destroyed Corellia with their lies and will no doubt attempt the same against my reputation here today. The question remains - will you allow them the opportunity to do the same to you?"

Rutherford takes a breath and prepares his closing.

"The Corporate Sector will never resort to such methods. Our goal has simply been to provide the Republic with the resources you need to evolve and prosper. That is the promise I make to you today. Thank you for your time."


-TBC

[Syren]

Chandaar: Republic Capital

Surface: Ambaril: Senate Hall

And there it is, just like that.

Despite his efforts of beating her to the punch, Mara still managed to pin Phage on him. The history angle was a lovely touch not to mention an attempt to highlight all the wonderful ways the Federation can work in the Republic's favor. As each dig leaves her mouth along with whatever else she plans to do, Mara only proves him right. He can handle himself and the backlash but her actions will make her and the Federation out to be exactly who he said they are. The rest of the Corporate Sector delegation is in full panic mode behind him, completely blindsided by the direction his speech had taken. Garron Prescott has not missed a beat and manages to arrange a steady stream of meetings with Senator's choking on questions where Rutherford would go through the motions pitching the CSA's solid reliability in stark contrast to the alternative. That part he has down as it is something he does on a daily basis back on Etti IV. Client relations has never really been a problem before but he had added a new dimension with a type of honesty not usually seen in a political arena.

Instead of fear, he feels relief.

The information Mara Tacofer had somehow amassed is part of an immense guilt he had carried around for far too long. At the moment, the release feels sweeter than the repercussions surely awaiting him both here and back in the Sector. His only worry is that he had complicated things for his family. The last thing he wants is to reopen old wounds but felt it necessary for his own to heal. He had distanced himself from what he had done to Valerie for most of his life and it was time to own up to it. For now, he would put on the game face and smoothly speak in corporate specifics.

*

Downtown Ambaril

After breakfast, Celeste takes the children out into the city. They make several stops at the points of interest recommended by the concierge. The sights and sounds seem to energize the group. It does not take long before their inquisitive nature rises to the surface.

"When can we see dad?" Dane asks. "I thought we could see him speak at the Senate Hall."

"Yeah," Gemma adds, tugging on a golden curl. "He promised."

Celeste chooses her words carefully, keeping the tone light.

"Your father wishes you could, my darlings but felt it might be a bit much for us this morning."

Dahlia scoffs, "What does that mean?"

Celeste sighs, unsure herself.

"It means he's very busy and we need him to focus on his work. Let's just enjoy our day together and we will meet him later on."

Dane and Gemma seem to accept this. They know how important Rutherford's company is to him, how busy he can be and when to leave him alone when he's working. Dahlia, however, eyes her suspiciously before throwing on a pair of oversized sunglasses Celeste suggested she not wear. The security agents hover at a conspicuous distance as they wander through the busy streets. They visit the Republic history museum then stroll through Inverness Park. Celeste keeps them together and tries to enjoy herself despite the concern she feels for Rutherford. He had not elaborated on the com. He made a request and she honored it, knowing there must be a valid reason. After all, he had been so excited for them to join him here. She hopes everything is going well for him in the Senate.

When they reach the Nalaa Grey boutique, Dahlia bolts inside.

Celeste has to smile. At least she's interested in something. Dane asks if he can pick out a bracelet for Alka while Gemma runs her hands along the smooth fabrics of the dresses hanging on awkwardly posed mannequins. Dahlia is already in the dressing room, trying on several outfits which she displays standing on the viewing platform near the back of the store. The saleswomen comments favorably, wondering how someone so young could pull off such daring looks.

Dahlia shrugs, admiring herself.

"It's a gift."

Celeste pays for the items with her card and finally begins to relax until they step out onto the walkway. Reporters come from every direction, cams up and shouting questions before the security agents have a chance to react.

"How do you feel about your husband's statements before the Senate today?"

"What affects do you think his testimony will have on Corporate Sector relations?"

"Is it true he turned over Valerie Gellar to the Galactic Empire?"

"Is Rutherford Gellar responsible for the Phage crisis?"

"How does your husband know Alexander Winton?"

"Any relation to the Jedi Melanie Masterton?"

It is a moment frozen in time.

The picture would be splashed across every news outlet by morning.

Celeste with her eyes wide and mouth open in surprise, Dahlia behind her posing for the cam in those dreadfully chic sunglasses, Gemma in tears, Dane in front of them all growling protectively as the many hands of the security agents reach out on the periphery.

She thinks she manages to say, "No comment, I have no comment at this time..."

They are all ushered back into the hoverlimo in what seems like an instant. Dahlia is wiping away Gemma's tears while Dane sulks angrily with his arms crossed. Celeste can barely breathe, staring at her own reflection in the deeply tinted windows as the limo glides back toward the Hotel Ovallus. The entire incident has caught her completely off guard. She knew there would come a time when the past and present would collide but thought she would have a bit of time to prepare. To get her thoughts in order. To organize how she would carefully phrase everything to the children. To come to terms with it all herself first.

Then she remembers, it's been ten years.

Fighting the stinging her in her eyes and the burning sensation at the back of her throat, Celeste places a hand over her mouth to keep from screaming. What exactly happened at the Senate Hall today? One look on any of the news channels and she would soon find out.



-TBC

[Syren]

Chandaar: Republic Capital

Surface: Ambaril: Hotel Ovallus

Celeste asks Dahlia to watch over the others and retires the bedroom alone. Normally, she would have protested but she saw how shaken her mother had been by the reporters and their questions. Dahlia finally gets Gemma to fall asleep then returns to the living room where Dane is standing by the window. As much as they fight, she does not like to see her siblings upset.

"Are you alright?"

Dane stares down into the city, jaw clenched.

"Those people upset mom."

She nods, "Yes, reporters have a knack for doing that. That's why you have to be careful with the media."

"You seemed to be enjoying it."

"I was playing it up. I didn't know mom would take it so hard."

Dane turns around, "Did you hear those things they asked her? I think something happened in the Senate today."

"Considering mom forbid us from watching the Holo, I'd say you are right."

He starts to say something but stops himself.

She frowns, "You can talk to me, you know."

"The other day when we were playing hide and seek at home, Alka was in the drawing room."

"I remember."

"There is a picture she was asking about, a girl named Valerie."

"You think it's the same Valerie the reporters asked about today?"

Dane nods.

Dahlia moves beside him and leans on the window sill.

"We have a big family, Dane. There are many Gellar's and Masterton's alike. Some we know about, others we may not. Whoever Valerie Gellar is, it sounds like she was involved with the Empire. That cannot be good for dad's reputation. Most likely someone found out about that connection and used it."

"Why would they do that?"

"To hurt him."

Dane makes a face.

"Sweetie, think about how people act at school. They dig up dirt on others and use it against them. This is just the adult version of that."

"Who is Melanie Masterton?"

She shrugs, "Beats me. A relative of mom's probably."

"They said she was a Jedi."

"Fascinating."

"You aren't the least bit curious?"

"Oh, I'm curious but based on the vibes in here I'll wait until things are a bit more settled before I start prying."

Dane sighs, glancing back out over Ambaril. He is a bright kid but quick to anger, especially when it comes to his family. There are kids that pick on Gemma and her friends. He does his best to stop it. Now people are picking on his parents and it frustrates him that he cannot do more. He considers Dahlia's words about their large family, one that spans generations until something strikes him.

"What about you?"

Dahlia turns, "What about me?"

"You said there are many Gellar's and Masterton's but your last name is Greyson."

"So?"

"So, why don't you have the same last name as me and Gemma?"

In truth, it is something she had begun to ask herself lately.

"I don't know," she says. "I thought mom and dad somehow knew I'd want to be distinctive and set me apart. Or I'm adopted."

Dane's eyes go wide, "Don't say that."

"Well, look at me. Do you know any Gellar's or Masterton's that have red hair?"

He shakes his head.

"Exactly. The Gellar's are all dark and sultry and the Masterton's are all bright eyed blonde's. I guess I'm here to diversity things."

"Have you ever asked mom and dad?"

"Of course not," she says. "That would break their hearts. Besides, it could be like, a genetic fluke. Somewhere along the way one of them had a recessive gene and here I am."

Dane just stares at her.

"Oh, you'll learn it in biology when you take it. Worry less about me and more about mom. She's pretty stressed."

"What can we do?"

Dahlia smiles.

"For starters? We could order lunch."

*

Inside the privacy of the bedroom, Celeste watches the reports stream across the local channels. Rutherford Gellar's admission tops the news with the many commentators discussing his possible motive. Oh, darling, she thinks to herself - what have you done? Highlights follow with a recap of his actual speech along with the Trade Federation's response.

One glaring fact stands out.

He was threatened by the Federation Ambassador.

So that's what the meeting this morning meant and the reason why he asked them to stay away from the Senate Hall. This woman, Mara Tacofer, must know more than he felt comfortable sharing publicly. Yet he turned around and announced it all anyway. It's an uncharacteristically bold move on his part to go public with his past transgressions. She thinks it may not have been something he would have done if he wasn't backed into a corner. Why did he have to mention Alexander Winton? He could have phrased it without naming names. The Federation connected Phage to Alexander  and Alexander to Rutherford. It's a spin she is not sure he can untangle himself from. No doubt he would be meeting with Senator's all afternoon in an attempt to explain himself. Surely he could make them see reason.

Then there is the sobering reality that this is all out in the open.

What Rutherford had done.

It would not be long before the media vultures circle back for more blood. They would investigate, dig into his past. They already know about her and assume the connection to Melanie. Most of the records from Coruscant were destroyed but her education and practice on Bakura still remain. A part of Celeste had been thankful that she had simply faded off into the background after the destruction of Centerpoint. By then no one was looking for her. They had stopped looking a long time ago. Melanie and her friends thought Celeste was as dead as Alexander, Monica and Henrick. Not that it did them much good. She could have reappeared and set the record straight, telling them all what a monster Alexander had been and that the lives they were leading had all been a set-up. She had stayed hidden partly because of what Master Corrin had said but mostly because of Dahlia.

The secret Winton child.

No one knew about her. Not even Alexander.

Celeste was tasked with keeping her safe and anonymous so that no enemies of The Four would come after her. She does not how much longer this ruse can last, given the circumstances that have come to light in the Republic Senate. Valerie is connected to Kimber is to Melanie is to Karen...

It's only a matter of time.

As she feels their lives unraveling, Celeste breaks down into tears. This admission on Rutherford's part would cast new light on the parents of The Four. Blair Gellar and Major Kyri Patten could be raised and dragged through the mud. Posthumous bad press. With the anniversary looming, their names would become headlines once again. She pulls it together, wipes away from the tears. She would have to be strong for all of them. Rutherford finally let go of his past and for him, that's an incredible achievement.

They would deal with this together, as a family.


-TBC

[Syren]

Chandaar: Republic Capital

Surface: Ambaril

Rutherford Gellar is exhausted.

He had spent most of the day in meetings with a variety of Senator's eager to understand his unusual pitch. He spoke openly about the many ways the Corporate Sector could continue to serve the Republic - securing more direct trade routes, minimizing cost, and providing the high quality of products they have come to rely on - all without the fear of Federation treachery inevitably looming over every transaction. He vows to maintain the level of professionalism they have come to expect from the Corporate Sector, one which has served them well as the Republic has grown and apologizes if his statements veered off the issue at hand. He realizes the personal lives of their corporate representatives have no place in their political world and explains this was specifically designed to expose the underhanded tactics employed by those who mean to gain access to the Republic's favor after years of scandal and failure. 

Rutherford alleges that while the Federation claims the role of victim within the Phage crisis, they are hardly blameless or naive. The delegates claim of his involvement extends only to a business association with the individual who they hold responsible for the supposed sabotage of the Phage project. Alexander Winton had ties to many factions within the galaxy at large, not just Gellar or the Corporate Sector. The nature and extent of Winton's relationship with the Federation was unknown to him. His relationship with Valerie Gellar's biological father, however, provided a case that her presence on Corellia would be in Valerie's best interest. Rutherford's financial backing provided for her care and extensive education at the finest schools on both Corellia and Coruscant. She grew to become a strong and beautiful woman, a hero who united the sector against the most dangerous of threats. He is proud of all she accomplished and was devastated by her death. The mere fact that the Federation would use this to a political advantage is cheap, unnecessary and certainly not the reason the Corporate Sector had come before the Senate. He strongly urges each Senator to consider their unblemished business record and product satisfaction but separate any personal judgments against him from Corporate Sector relations.

The spiel grows more comfortable and confident with each Senator he speaks with. Some seem to believe him while others now attach speculation about him onto the Corporate Sector itself. It would only be a matter of time to see if his appeal to their sensibilities would affect the outcome.

Long after nightfall, Garron Prescott inquires about his next move. By now word has reached Celeste and his heart aches with what she must be feeling at this moment. He prays she knows his actions were not intended to hurt her or the children. It was something he had to do. Now there was just one more thing before he returned to the hotel. She had spoken her piece without so much as a word in edgewise. She thinks she has all the answers. She thinks she has him all figured out based on the remnants of Patten's immense selfishness and Winton's tremendous lies.

It's her turn to listen.
 
Rutherford narrows his eyes, "Get me a meeting with Mara Tacofer."



-TBC

[Syren]

Corporate Sector

D'ian System: Concordia Township

Alka Dawning and Preston Dyre spend an afternoon playing in her massive bedroom within the Dawning Estate. Even though he is a boy, Preston enjoys indulging his female friends in the things they like to do. He allows Alka to dress him up like a knight while she parades around in a frilly crimson gown. They make believe there is a monster out to get them and only Preston can save her. She flees down the hall with Preston in pursuit, squealing and laughing as he waves the make shift sword through the air as if fending off the imaginary beast. Soon they enter another wing of the estate entirely, one usually reserved for the formal company of adults. She can hear her father's voice, a barely contained snarl and slows her pace. Preston bumps into her but she turns to him and presses her fingers to his lips. Together, they creep forward, keeping close against the wall as they near his office.

Alka is seldom here and would normally return to safer areas but the sound of her father's voice spikes a curiosity deeper than that of typical childhood games. As they near the office door, they can make out his words. The conversation is one-sided so she assumes he is on a com-link of some kind.

D'Ken Dawning is furious.

"What was Gellar thinking unloading his personal baggage in front of the Republic Senate? Do you know what this means? I don't think you do! It makes us look weak, sentimental even. What kind of executive confesses in such a venue?! I don't care if he was threatened! He should know better than to cave under Federation pressure! They threaten the very fabric of our industries with this asinine attempt at reestablishing themselves in the galactic marketplace. Of course I was aware Gellar has issues with the Trade Federation - why do you think I volunteered him for this assignment? Yes, I still have contacts within the Wheel. Keep your enemies closer, right? No, that was not the plan. Gellar was supposed to use that turmoil to undermine their pitch in front of the Senate not expose his soul for the entire Republic to judge. Of course I know who Valerie Gellar is. Everyone does! Hell, her face was plastered across most of the galaxy along with the rest of those gorgeous tragedies. Terrible shame...or not, depending on who you ask. Yes, Melanie Masterton too. Celeste's daughter. Her first one, anyway. Oh, you didn't know? Read up, my friend. It's a scorcher. Well, their personal lives are quickly becoming a liability for us. I'm quite aware of what this week signifies and Gellar's buffoonery will only amplify the issue. He's been ignoring my calls all day and we can only hope he's rectifying the situation with his, and I say this with reluctance, brilliant corporate charm. He's got the chops but this could seriously damage our credibility, especially if the Federation managed to tie him to the Phage crisis and make it stick. Gellar better pray he can salvage this or else I am not sure I can spare him in front of the Board..."

Alka's eyes are wide, clutching Preston's hand tightly. It does not seem like things on Chandaar are going very well. All she can think of is Gemma and strangely, Dane. His face has not left her mind in days along with the light feeling in her stomach when she says his name aloud. It's not a feeling she can place but a part of her likes it. Keeping very quiet, she and Preston tip-toe away from the  office, back into their own domain and into their imaginations.

*

LeVanya Monroe takes a phenomenally long drag off her cigarette and sighs. Another day, another project. She leave in an hour to start shooting on location on Tatooine where she plays the controlling wife of a moisture farmer with lofty dreams in a place far, far away. Maker Almighty, she needs to get a new agent. LeVanya stamps out  the cigarette, slams the rest of her cocktail and breezes past the cadre of staff she pays to handle all the details.

Muriel is curled up on the couch in the living room, squandering her spring break from Valor Prep. She refused to join her on Tatooine even for a moment but that's not something LeVanya can really fault her for. The planet is a wasteland and the Concordia Township is much better suited for her daughter. At least she would know she's safe. The special task force of Espos patrolling the township seldom let anything get out of hand or allow anyone any fun for that matter. It's just as well.

LeVanya pauses by the couch, glancing down at Muriel as she tries to think of something clever to say. Coming up with nothing, she leaves the house with her staff never saying a word.

Muriel pulls her knees tighter against her chin and wills herself not to cry. This has happened so many times before she doesn't know why it even bothers her anymore. Yet the sting of abandonment is ever present from a mother who consistently chooses  her career over her family. The first several years of her life, Muriel isn't even sure she saw her mother at all, coming to know the nanny droids and occasional human help as members of her family. She's never gotten a straight answer out of her mother regarding who her father is. The offhanded and casual "a producer" is all LeVanya would offer. So she retreats into her own world as a coping mechanism in spite of all the damage being done. Her friends lessen the pain but at the moment they are all off on holiday. She flips through the channels, comforted by the fact that she has never been denied anything save for the things that actually matter. The Holo is filled with news, most streaming out of Chandaar.

To her complete surprise, Muriel pauses on a channel flashing a picture of Celeste Masterton and the children in front of the Nalaa Grey boutique. Dahlia is mugging for the cams and Muriel is instantly jealous but as she begins to hear the story being told over the pictures, she is suddenly unsettled. Apparently, Rutherford Gellar had revealed a bit too much in front of the Republic Senate and the reporters are running wild with it. There is mention of names she has never heard of followed by a tie-in she most certainly has.

The Four.

Muriel leans forward, clicking up the volume.

"Valerie Gellar, hero of Corellia, was in fact the illegitimate granddaughter of the ChemiX corporate executive Rutherford Gellar. She was murdered by the droid menace known as Phage, a sacrifice which saved millions of lives. In previous years, Valerie had been known as one of the four faces of Imperial fashion label, Raga'Ana who's often times scandalous behavior made headlines."

Photage of Valerie waving a bottle around in a tight black gown. Photage of Valerie dancing in a nightclub. Photage of Valerie screaming at then kissing a very handsome boy on a beach.

"Rutherford's claims that he sent Valerie to live with her biological father on Corellia have been the source of much speculation in Chandaar. This in the face of the revelation that none other than Alexander Winton, notorious former Vice President of Repulsor Corp, was the instigator of this exchange. Winton died along with his wife, Queen Monica Greyson of Naboo in a fiery speeder crash in the Bakuran capital of Salis Da'ar almost fifteen years ago. Coincidentally, Winton is the father of another famous face, Karen Winton, the socialite and once future Empress of the Galactic Empire. Karen, along with her fiancé, the Emperor Dementat and friends, Kimber Patten and Melanie Masterton all perished in the Centerpoint Station during the iconic battle which the galaxy will commemorate later this week in its ten year anniversary."

Photage of Karen, Kimber and Melanie are shown. Their faces are made up and caught in lights, one that is all too familiar to her. Things begin to click in her mind which now reels with horrifying possibilities.

Her mother's movie, Vogue Empire, rumored to be based on a true story. Names were changed to satisfy the studio executives and allow for embellishments without fear of litigation.

Kimbra Padgett.
Melania Masters.
Valkyrie Gaston.
Kiryn Wexler.

She knew it. She knew it was true.

Muriel is breathing heavily, clutching the remote so tightly her knuckles have gone white. The program cuts back to the reporter who leers at the audience like she's got some kind of vendetta.

"More of the story to come. Stay tuned."


-TBC

[Syren]

Chandaar: Republic Capital
 
Surface: Ambaril: Hotel Ovallus

Celeste wakes to find the other side of the bed untouched. Beyond that, she sees Rutherford's suit from the day before draped neatly over one of the chairs. She isn't sure what is worse - that he came home and did not wake her or that he had to turn around and leave so quickly. She can only imagine what kind of damage control he must be doing at the moment and decides not to become angry.

As she showers, musing in the rising steam, she considers that everyone has their own way of dealing with things. Rutherford has kept his role in Valerie's fate bottled up for so long, she is surprised it had not found another way out sooner. They had discussed it long ago when they first met one another. They were so broken then, a dark and shameful time for both. The conversation had spilled freely like the wine they consumed, loosening them up to tell the tales of their pasts without inhibition. It felt good to confess to someone else, a sounding board with someone who was also manipulated into doing things they wished they had not. She spent years working on herself. He seemed to seal that section of his life off the moment they decided to start anew together.

Celeste slides into soft white slacks and an embellished white blouse. She slides a thick black belt through the loops of the pants and steps into a pair of conservative black pumps. Her golden curls are tousled and falls easily over her shoulders and down to the middle of her back. She's never been a huge fan of excessive makeup and settles for a basic eye liner, some mascara and a few dabs of soft pink lipstick. She finishes off the outfit with two strands of pearls and steps back to admire herself in the mirror. She's not vain by any means but likes to keep in shape and enjoys being healthy.

The door chime echoes through the living room, drawing her attention away. She leaves the bedroom and crosses into the foyer to answer the door. A woman stands out in the hall smiling eagerly at her when the door hisses open. She is tall, thin and very pretty with soft brown eyes and hair that is almost an auburn color.

"Yes? May I help you?"

The woman nods, "I'm so sorry to intrude but your detail said it wouldn't be a problem. I'm Counselor Circe Prescott."

It is then she sees the resemblance to Rutherford's valet, Garron. They share the sharp facial features and high cheekbones.
 
"Oh, of course! Come right in. Forgive me that we did not ring you sooner."

"It's quite alright," Circe says. "I imagine you've been quite busy since you arrived. Garron called when you landed but I haven't been able to reach him since. I do hope everything is okay."

"Me too. He and Rutherford must be exhausted. They were working all night."

Celeste extends a hand.

"It's so nice to finally meet you."

Circe shakes it lightly, "Likewise. I apologize for not being able to get away much otherwise I would have certainly come to visit in the Corporate Sector."

"As a Republic Counselor, you must be so busy with the expansion."

"I am surprised by how quickly we are growing. So many systems request admission into the Republic they have to hold special sessions just to hear them all."

"That's good news, isn't it? It means the galaxy is ready for a positive change."

Circe nods, "Indeed it does."

They stare at one another for some time. Celeste has mixed feelings about the Counselor. She is the one who released the Corellian reporters story to the worlds and was rumored to have worked very closely with Melanie. The visit suddenly seems less formal than it was only moments ago yet she maintains a smile. Circe appears to be thinking the same thing.

"I do not mean to impose but I was wondering if I could take you out for brunch. I feel we need to talk."

Celeste nods deftly, "I'd like that."

Dahlia appears in the living room, "What's happening? Where's dad?"

"He's still working, darling. This is Counselor Prescott of the Republic. Counselor, this is my daughter Dahlia."

"Hello, Dahlia," Circe says, concealing her double-take. There is no mistaking that face and if no one has inquired yet, they soon would. "It's so lovely to meet you."

"You too," Dahlia says, already bored.

"Sweetie, we are going downstairs for a while. Would you be a dear and look after your brother and sister?"

"Can we order in?"

"Of course, anything you want."

"Consider it done."

Celeste follows Circe to the door before pausing.

"Dahlia?"

"Yes, mother?"

"No Holo."

Dahlia rolls her eyes up and crosses her arms.

"You've made that abundantly clear."

"Just checking, love. See you soon."

As soon as the door hisses closed behind them, Dahlia turns back toward the projector in the center of the living room. Dane and Gemma are still sound asleep, tired from the emotional turmoil of the previous day. She is sick of being kept in the dark. She's old enough to know what, if anything, is going on. Clearly something happened in the Senate otherwise her mother would not be freaking out about possible coverage. Grabbing the remote, Dahlia turns on the Holo.

*

Downstairs at the restaurant, Celeste requests a quiet booth away from any other guests. She can see on the periphery the reporters lingering outside on the street waiting for an opportunity to pounce. She turns away and follows the host to the giant circular boothe near the back.

After coffee and a bite to eat, Circe turns to Celeste.

"How are you holding up?"

"In what sense?"

"I was present at the Senate hearing yesterday and I must admit, it was a brave but unexpected move on Rutherford's part."

Celeste folds her hands on the table.

"We have not had a chance to discuss it yet but in a way, I am relieved. The past has been looming over us for too long, a past I hear you are rather familiar with."

"Some of it, yes but you cannot always trust reporters."

"Kent Carlson, right? Did you know him?"

"Briefly," Circe says. "He certainly had his faults but there was something sweet about him. I was sent back to the Republic before I really got a chance to get to know more about him. He was...determined to tell the story of The Four."

"But you are the one who told it."

"I released what I was given and I apologize if any of it hurt you. That was not my intention. I felt it needed to be told."

"Thank you. I was a bit surprised by the graphic nature of the details but life is never lacking in those, I suppose. I do not mean to be skeptical but your presence here has me wondering why you really came to see me. Something tells me it wasn't purely a social call."

"Not entirely," Circe admits. "I feel I owe it to Melanie."

The name is like a spike through the air, plunging straight into her heart. Celeste gasps, placing a hand on her chest.

"Have I upset you?"

"No, it's alright. This is a conversation we need to have."

After collecting herself, Celeste levels her gaze on the Counselor's face.

"Tell me about my daughter."

"Melanie was a wise and powerful Jedi who cared very deeply for those she held dear. I owe my life to her. After all, it was she who sent me back before the group I was with boarded the Centerpoint Station."

"Why did she go there in the first place?"

"You have to go farther back than that to Arbra. The Republic had a base hidden below the surface which is where we were stationed. Melanie then brought Kimber Patten, Rydan Stratford and eventually, Kent Carlson back to the Haven Base for protection."

"Stratford," Celeste says softly. "Why does that name sound familiar?"

"His brother was one of Melanie's friends on Coruscant."

Celeste shivers, remembering reading of his grisly fate.

"Yes...yes, I remember."

"Rydan, along with his partner, Scott St. Claire, were originally assigned to help protect Valerie Gellar when she was Governess of Corellia. When the Phage Crisis reached a critical point, she ordered Rydan to take Kimber away from Corellia in hopes Phage would not harm her."

"St. Claire....he was an Imperial agent."

"He was, yes." Circe says. "But I was told his loyalties became clouded the closer he became to Valerie and Kimber."

Celeste nods, "Go on."

"The Empire somehow followed Melanie back to Arbra after she rescued the reporter on Tatooine and as the Republic evacuated, a small team made a break for Corellia."

"Why Corellia?"

"At the time, the Confederation had been openly engaging the Empire in battle and Melanie believed they were the only faction with enough resources to keep Kimber safe. The child she was carrying was part of a prophecy, one that would restore balance to a galaxy left unstable by Karen Winton and Emperor Dementat. The High Commander granted us sanctuary."

"And Centerpoint?"

Circe swallows hard, finishing the last of her coffee.

"When it became clear the Empire would bring everything it had against the Confederation, we were faced with a choice. Stand and fight or run and die. By that point we were finished running. We decided to stay and fight. Although Melanie disagreed, the High Commander insisted that Centerpoint was the most secure location within the sector and would provide ample protection during the Imperial assault."

"Why didn't you go with them?"

"Melanie had a contingency plan. She sent me back to the Republic with the information about the impending war to beseech them for assistance if the Confederation forces were to falter. Carlson gave me his story and I fled the system just before the blockade appeared out of hyperspace. When I presented my case to the Republic, they felt differently than I had anticipated. We were still weak then, barely surviving to escape the vicious Imperial attacks throughout the galaxy."

Circe glances down, sighing.

"They felt the Confederation had potential to be just as tyrannous as the Empire and declined to help. The battle would be fierce but the outcome would spell the end for both factions."

She raises her eyes.

"I'm so sorry, Celeste. I tried to make them understand what was at stake."

Celeste places a hand over Circe's, shaking her head. It appears Rutherford is not the only person who needed to get things off their chest. The Counselor also had a burden to bare and she appreciates the honesty.

"It was not your fault."

"I left her there...."

"You could not have known. If you had remained, you would be have perished as well."

"But Melanie, Kimber and that poor child. I have felt terrible about it for such a long time, always wondering if there was more I could  have done."

Celeste slides closer, feeling the connection between them. Why had it taken them so long to find each other? Guilt? Grief?
 
"You did all you could. There are always things we wish we could have done differently, hindsight being so much clearer. Thank you for sharing this with me."

She nods, "I thought you needed to hear it. When I heard you were coming to the capital, I agonized over seeking you out. Garron had advised me against it. He thinks so dearly of you and would not want to cause you any harm. You've been through so much, lost so many..."

"We all have," Celeste says, signaling for another cup for both of them. "The important thing is to value what we do have. That is what makes the days brighter."

Circe sits back, laughing in spite of herself.

"I feel so foolish, blubbering on in such a way."

"Don't. I'm honestly enjoying the company. It's rare that I have someone to talk to about this aside from Rutherford. The women in the Corporate Sector have no idea about anything although I suspect they will after this is all over."

"It does force things into a public light. Connections will inevitably be made."

Celeste takes a deep breath.

"That's what scares me the most."


-TBC

[Syren]

Chandaar: Republic Capital

Surface: Ambaril: Hotel Ovallus

The photage is both gripping and explosive.

They had covered the Centerpoint battle in history class at Valor Prep, a fleeting mention in contrast to the events leading up to it. The gory details and the faces of those involved were omitted in favor of furthering the Corporate Sector's agenda. All they were told was that it was a turning point. A key factor in galactic destabilization which allowed for the resurgence of the Republic from the ashes of the Empire and Confederation.

Dahlia cannot tear her emerald eyes away from the images.

Today marks the ten year anniversary and the Holo is consumed by a story that kept the galaxy riveted for years and ended in a horrific tragedy as the Centerpoint station imploded in on itself. Rutherford's statements before the Republic Senate lead off the news that weaves into the past and around four girls who brought fashion and fear into the forefront of the galactic stage. 

Valerie Gellar is the first character profile, Rutherford's illegitimate granddaughter who was sent to live with her biological father, CorSec Major Kyri Patten, on Corellia. There she was raised with her half-sister until they were both sent to Coruscant to attend the exclusive North Coruscant High. It was at NCH she met the others who collectively would come to be known to the worlds as The Four. Photage of Valerie flash by - deeply tanned with dark green eyes and a menacing pout framed by her raven hair. Her turn as a model led into her admittance to the CorSec Academy which then launched her meteoric rise to public office as Governess of Corellia. She single handedly united the entire sector against the Federation threat of the Baron Phage and lost her life stopping him from destroying Corellia entirely.

This segment flows into one on Kimber Patten, the half-sister in question and the darling of Corellia. Touted as the most beloved of them all, Kimber smiles and twirls through the photage. Her wide violet eyes, button nose and trademark bangs exude a kind of charm that melted the hearts of many. Her reputation was marred by a stint as an Imperial diplomat, rumored to be the result of blackmail, where she played a part in the death of a Hapan Admiral. This led to a relationship with Imperial Agent Mod Navris who was killed on Hesperidium leaving her pregnant and terrified. She betrayed the Empire to the Hapan Consortium and fled for her life, disappearing for several months. With a bounty on her head and the Empire closing in, Kimber regrouped with one of her old friends and found herself in the middle of the Imperial-Confederation war.
 
Melanie Masterton, the most mysterious of The Four, came to Kimber's rescue. She was a gorgeous blond with piercing blue eyes who had an affinity for wearing white. Also a model for Raga'Ana, she was rumored to be working with a separatist faction operating out of Coruscant. When the planet was destroyed by minions of the Dark Queen of Hapes, Melanie was arrested on Hesperidium for conspiring with the alleged terrorist group known as La Revolte. In the ensuing Imperial pandemonium following Coruscant's destruction, she escaped and was not seen again until years later when she resurfaced as a Jedi Knight connected to the Republic. Leading the charge against the Emperor and his apprentice and lover, Darth Kyja, Melanie sought sanctuary with the Corellian Confederation before the iconic battle began.

The last face splashed across the Holo is one Dahlia is not prepared for. It is like staring directly into a mirror, causing her to gasp and nearly choke.

Karen Winton, princess of Naboo and Imperial socialite, grew to become a powerful and dangerous Sith much like her older sister, Alexia. Karen's crimson hair, emerald eyes and classic sneer graced advertisements across the known galaxy. Her rise from celebrity to Sith was well documented in the media. She caught the eye of Imperial Emperor Dementat and their romance and engagement sparked waves of press. But the love story ended in tragedy when she boarded the Centerpoint Station with her lover close behind and both lost their lives.

These events, chronicled by deceased Corellian reporter, Kent Carlson became a critically praised documentary, Bound by Blood, and inspired the loosely based cineplex adaptation, Vogue Empire.

Before Dahlia can even react, the news circles back to the present and targets her mother.

"Celeste Masterton, mother of the Jedi Melanie Masterton, was long rumored to be dead along with her husband, Doctor Henrick Masterton whose remains were discovered in the smoldering ruins of the Greyson Estate on Naboo shortly before the Centerpoint battle. The parents of the The Four had all perished in the ensuing years - Alexander Winton and Queen Monica Greyson died in a speeder crash on Bakura. Major Kyri Patten was another victim of Phage. Lilandra Patten died under suspicious circumstances in the psychiatric ward of Coronet General Hospital. Celeste's emergence in the Corporate Sector, now married to Rutherford Gellar, has ignited a firestorm of controversy and questions. Together they have three children, seen here shopping in the Republic capital of Chandaar."

The scene in front of the Nalaa Grey boutique is ominously frozen, darkening slightly before a bright circular pattern appears around Dane and Gemma's faces.

"The youngest children, twins Dane Gellar and Gemma Masterton, are striking replica's of their parents."

The bright circle now appears around Dahlia.

"But their eldest daughter is another story entirely. Similarities and speculations have been running rampant across the HoloNet. So just who is Dahlia Greyson and what does this mean for the Gellar-Masterton family as well as the future of Corporate Sector relations?"

Dahlia takes a step back and screams.


-TBC

[Syren]

Chandaar: Republic Capital

Surface: Ambaril: Hotel Ovallus

Her screams bring Dane and Gemma running into the living room. She is quick to retrieve the remote and flip off the Holo as they enter the room.

"What is it? What's wrong?!"

"Nothing..."

Gemma glances at the projector then at Dahlia, "Were you watching the Holo?"

"Maybe."

"Ooo, you are going to be in trouble."

Dahlia sighs, "Only if you tell."

Dane crosses his arms, "We won't tell mom if you tell us what you were watching."

"Oh, so you are clever now? That's nice. This isn't a negotiation."

"Then I guess you won't mind being grounded."

"It was nothing, Dane. Just the news."

"About dad?"

Gemma hovers near her brother, looking worried.

Dahlia shrugs, trying to downplay the questions compounding in her mind.

"You know how the media can be-"

"Dahl!"

She shifts into the most even tone she can manage because, despite her own surprise and horror, she does not want to scare them.

"Alright listen, you were right. Valerie Gellar is dad's granddaughter which technically makes her our niece. You both know he had a daughter before he had us."

Gemma nods, "Blair. She was very pretty."

"That's right. Blair was Valerie's mother and, well, our half-sister."

They both begin to look confused. She doesn't grasp it all that well either but attempts to explain in a way they would understand. The significant age difference between them and the prior generation of Gellar's is a bit much to swallow.

"Didn't Blair...die?" Gemma asks in a soft whisper.

Dahlia nods, "As did Valerie. Sad, yes but true. The Republic media is making a big deal about it now."

Dane crosses his arms, "Why?"

"Why what?"

"Why are they making a big deal about it?"

This would prove more challenging to break down, especially since she doesn't know the whole story. She does not have a response that would properly answer the question and this information throws her own suspicions about herself into a new light. The reporter's question repeats itself in her head.

Just who is Dahlia Greyson?

Good question.

She grabs her purse and glances at herself in the mirror as she heads for the door.
 
"That's exactly what I'm going to ask dad."


-TBC

[Syren]

Dathomir

In the darkness of the caves, Elder A'kram kneels beside Elder Bashir. The excitement seems to strum the air, casting waves of emotion outward. Their oracles have been many and the blood rituals performed shed new light on their quest. For several minutes, they meditate in silence before Bashir speaks.

"The legacy has been revealed."

"We have long waited for this day. Many have doubted our wisdom and perished for their lack of faith."

Elder A'kram nods from beneath his robe.

"It seems our patience has served us well. Tell me."

"Three are known to us. The grandfather of Gellar and mother of Masterton have formed a union which produced twins, a male and a female."

"And the third?"

Elder Bashir's scarred lips form a sinister smile.

"She does not belong to them."

"Raised by another."

"She is the key."

"Another daughter of Winton?"

"The sister of our beloved abominations."

"You know this for certain?"

"To look upon her is to understand her place in our vision."

"What of the forth?"

"Unclear," Elder Bashir says. "But where there are three, the forth will be close behind."

Elder A'kram cackles.

"Their fates are intertwined."

"We wait for your instruction."

A'kram removes his hood, exposing the hideous flesh beneath.

"Kill the ties that remain. Find the forth and bring them all before me. Only the hearts of the legacy will grant us life eternal as it has been foreseen."

Elder Bashir bows.

"As you wish."


-TBC

[Syren]

Chandaar: Republic Capital

Surface: Ambaril: Hotel Ovallus

Dahlia storms out into the corridor but does not get very far. Unlike the Imperial Agents assigned to guard The Four, the Sector Espos have no intention of letting her give them the slip. She argues with them, demanding they allow her to leave. This is met with stone cold refusal.

Garron Prescott is drawn out of his suite by the commotion and defuses the situation and invites Dahlia to talk. She reluctantly agrees, glaring as she enters the valet's suite.

"What seems to be the problem, lady Dahlia?"

She huffs and puffs, stalking around the room.
 
"I need to talk to my father."

"Regarding anything specific?"

Dahlia considers phrasing, "The news."

"I guess you saw that."

"Against advisement otherwise? Yes. So he gave up his granddaughter. It has nothing to do with the Federation requesting Republic trade permits."

Garron shrugs, "Everything is fair game in politics. You will learn that in time. Was there anything else?"

She hesitates, biting her lower lip.

"I...saw something. Someone, actually. Valerie Gellar wasn't the only story they are running."

His expression changes but not enough to register to her.

"I don't doubt it. The galaxy is ripe with activity. It's an exciting time."

"Do you know who Karen Winton is?"

"I know of her."

"Like what?"

"Only what I've heard on the Holo."

"Oh knock it off, Garron. I'm not a child."

"You are thirteen, lady Dahlia. I've known you your whole life and will not be condescended to or disrespected."

She frowns, guilty.

"You're right. I'm sorry. It's just....that story, the Winton girl and her family. Name's, faces..."

Garron arches a brow, "What about them?"

There is a clarity that comes from the things she has seen, pieces of a puzzle she has wondered about but never pursued. She always knew she was different than the others. She just didn't know in what ways.

"I don't belong to them, do I?"

It's a loaded question, one that hangs in the air as if attached to a cartoon bubble near her pink polished mouth. The things a valet is privy to cannot be discussed, certainly not to those whose lives it could alter forever.

Garron turns to her and speaks evenly.

"You, Gemma and Dane make Lord Gellar happier than I have seen him in a long while. Lady Masterton adores you with all her heart. If they care, protect and love you, does it really make a difference?"

Dahlia hugs herself as she backs toward the door.

"It might."

She turns and leaves, returning quietly to the Gellar suite. Garron stands there for a long while, contemplating what he knows. The story his sister released a decade ago shed light on questions the galaxy had been asking themselves for years. It gave depth to four girls who held the attention of millions with merely the surface. He knows Dahlia is really a Winton, the last of an infamous dynasty. The secret combined with the Force vaccine kept her and Celeste safe for years as the worlds moved on from the Centerpoint battle. Now, in the face of the anniversary and his master's admission, the past becomes a present moment once again. They say time heals all wounds unless, of course, that time was only borrowed.


-TBC

[Syren]

Chandaar: Republic Capital

Surface: Ambaril

Rutherford agrees to keep in touch with Mara and thanks her for her assistance. He leaves the Hotel Mermeia feeling drained but hopeful. She does not trust him and probably never will. He represents something to her that  he will not be able to change. His sins are too numerous for her forgiveness. At least she has agreed to help albeit by equally devious means.

On the walk back over to the Ovallus, he places a call to D'Ken Dawning to update him on the turn of events. Dawning is furious to say the least.

"Align with them? Are you insane?"

"Think collective bargaining, Dawning. Surely your narrow mind can grasp the concept. The Federation will not back down and have every intention of exploiting our every flaw."

D'Ken scoffs, "You mean your every flaw."

"I did what I had to do," Rutherford hisses. "Not that it should come as a surprise to you."

"What the hell does that mean?"

"You were instrumental to my being here, Dawning. I wouldn't put it past you to tip the Federation off and set me up to fail."

"That's a serious allegation, Gellar."

"Exactly the way it was intended. Now, sell the collaboration between Sector and Federation to the Direx Board. It will provide rather lucrative opportunities, solidify our creed of free enterprise, and provide an image rehabilitation that will bring the Sector into the modern era."

"And if I don't?"

Rutherford smiles, "I'll find the evidence I need to crucify you before the Board."

He clicks off when he spots the reporters lingering near the hotel entrance. He disappears into a crowd of wealthy tourists and follows them inside. The lobby is cool and inviting. He crosses the lobby when he hears his name being called.

"Rutherford!"

He turns as Celeste rushes forward.

"Hello, love."

She embraces him tightly, "I was so worried. You look exhausted."

"That's the understatement of the day."

Counselor Circe Prescott emerges beside them, smiling politely.

"Good day, Counselor."

She nods, "Lord Gellar."

Celeste laughs, "We just had brunch and were on the way back up to the room. Garron and Circe have some catching up to do and we need to talk."

"That we do, my darling."

The trio enters the lift and steps out on their floor. Circe pauses beside Garron's door, waving.

"It was so nice to meet you."

Celeste beams, "You as well. Don't be a stranger."

"I won't."

Celeste and Rutherford enter the Gellar suite to find the children united in the living room. Dane and Gemma bound over when he enters. He kneels down and embraces them, happy to be with them again. The thought of publicly compromising them threatens to overwhelm him and he makes a command decision to take Mara up on her offer to adjust the media's attention elsewhere.

Dahlia lingers behind them, seemingly hesitant.

"What's wrong, Dahlia?" Celeste asks, looking concerned.

"Nothing."

The reply is full of speculation and mistrust. Rutherford watches her carefully, wondering what is going through her mind. She's so difficult to read these days. Often outraged then sullen. The emotional tidal waves of a teenager.

"I am sorry we could not be together yesterday."

"That's okay, daddy!" Gemma squeals.

"Yeah," Dane says. "We're just glad you're back now."

"Me too, kiddos."

He stands and raises his eyes to Dahlia, searching for something in her beautifully blank face.

Despite her confusion, he is the only father she knows. She opts not to attack them with accusations but instead investigate on her own. There was plenty of source material she could reference. No sense in going on the offensive without some solid evidence to back it up.

She flashes a smile and throws her arms around his neck, whispering in his ear.

"Welcome back, dad."

*

Down the corridor, Circe finds her older brother holding a nearly empty glass in the dim suite. Although they speak often, their very different professions keep them at a distance most of the time. By the look on his face, she senses he is troubled.

"Credit for your thoughts?"

He smirks, polishing off what is left in the glass before setting it a little too roughly on the table. His sharp eyes find hers before speaking.

"She knows."



-TBC

[Syren]

Chandaar: Republic Capital

Surface: Hotel Ovallus

Counselor Circe Prescott aims at levity with her brother's statement.

"Is that so?"

Garron Prescott nods.

"And how does she know?"

"You've seen the headlines."

"Speculation mostly," Circe says. "But nothing that directly links Dahlia to the Winton's. She may bear a striking resemblance but given the sheer amount of people in this galaxy, there is always someone who looks like someone else."
 
"That's your professional opinion?"

"That's the truth, Garron. I take it she has become suspicious?"

"To say the least."

"Unfortunate but not entirely surprising, given Lord Gellar's rather selfish statements before the Senate."

"You think it was selfish?"

"To bring that kind of attention on Celeste and the children? Very much so. Regardless if he was threatened by the Federation, he should ? have chosen tact over admission. It may have all come out anyway but at least not directly from his own mouth. He's countering, nothing more. Calling a non-existent bluff. The Federation would have exposed him either way but it's nice to see he's grown a conscience after all these years."

"You've always judged him harshly."

"Judge is a strong word," Circe says. "I've questioned his motives in the past, especially since those motives cost him his first wife and daughter. Celeste doesn't deserve that."
 
Garron smiles, "You've bonded with Lady Masterton?"

"She's very sweet and in dire need of a friend who isn't part of the Sector. From what I gather, she does not have many personal connections there. Most of her interactions are with clients or other parents. She needs a support network outside of her family."

"She is sweet and one of the most loving wives and mother's I've known. She is determined to be the mother to Dane, Gemma and Dahlia that she couldn't be for Melanie."

Circe nods, "I sense immense guilt in her."

"You explained your connection to Jedi Masterton?"

"I did and I'm glad to say you were wrong about approaching her. She was uncomfortable at first but grateful for the information. Celeste told me that after Winton moved the parents away from the Core, they did not have much contact with Melanie. In fact, it was practically forbidden. Winton told them it would interfere with the prophecy and risk their lives."

Garron shakes his head, "That man was pure evil."

"Evil and very clever, using manipulation to alienate the parents from their children and make them believe they no longer cared. The poor girls had no choice but to push on in survival mode."

He laughs, "With tons of money and fame to keep them company."

"Merely distractions to divert their attention away from reality."

"And what about Dahlia? Doesn't she have a right to know where she came from?"

Circe falls into the chair across from him.

"Perhaps but it is not our place to tell her. I hope you redirected her to Rutherford and Celeste."

"I implied it shouldn't matter if they care for her the way they do."

"So you didn't deny it then?"

"Not explicitly but I did not confirm it either."

"Oh, Garron," Circe groans. "She's so young and probably so full of questions. Why didn't you just tell her talk to her parents?"

"That would imply I knew something. I posed a hypothetical, open-ended question."

"To which she responded?"
 
"That it might matter to her if she did not belong to them."

Circe sighs, "That could prove problematic."
 
"No doubt."

"Then let us hope she does the right thing."

"And what? Confront her parents? Lord Gellar and Lady Masterton have worked endlessly to keep her safe from the past."
 
"The more one attempts to contain the past, the more damage it does. Waiting until she is of a certain age to open up about where she came from is the wisest choice but there ? is a point of no return that is rapidly approaching. If she already suspects then being honest with her might be the only thing that saves her."

"From what?"

Circe's face grows terribly serious.

"How much do you know about Alexia and Karen Winton?"

He shrugs, "That which I have read and what you have told me. You never met them, did you?"

"Certainly not," Circe says. "Most of what I know I learned from Melanie. Alexia Winton was the only confirmed case of Force possession. The midi-chlorian levels in her body were so high that at times she would be completely consumed by the Force itself with catastrophic consequences. She was highly unstable and a danger to all that surrounded her. Karen, on the other hand, held the same potential but only came to realize it after an incident on Contruum. Melanie told me the Jedi felt a disturbance so powerful it temporarily blinded her Master. Their investigation led them to Contruum where Karen was currently embedded with the Imperial diplomatic corp. It did not take them long to make the connection. Karen's power was honed by her relationship with the Emperor Dementat and she became a powerful Sith. This rare and extremely intense connection to the Force is something that runs in their family."

Garron's mouth parts in realization, "Which could have passed on to Dahlia."

"The children of Winton are far from helpless despite the posh exterior."
 
"Dahlia has telekinetic abilities," Garron says. "That much I know for certain."

"And her midi-chlorian level?"

"Lord Gellar has never shared that information."
 
"Perhaps it is something you should find out."
 
"Why?"

Circe arches a brow, "Other than your own safety and that of the family?"

He nods.

"During the reign of Palpatine, few with such abilities were allowed to live. While Alexia was used as an Imperial weapon, Karen and Melanie were seemingly left untouched. They were told by their handler's who knew that these abilities would make them targets of those looking to exploit the power for their own purposes. The Winton sisters were viewed as both assets and threats, depending on which side you asked. If Dahlia shares even a fraction of their connection to the Force, it could make a strong case for those who do not wish the past to repeat itself."

Circe's voice drops to almost a whisper.

"Dahlia's heritage could make her both a liability or leverage."




-TBC

[Syren]

Chandaar: Republic Capital

Surface: Ambaril: Hotel Ovallus

After Rutherford sleeps, he rises late in the afternoon to shower and change before dinner. As he slips into a grey blazer, Celeste lingers behind him in a glittery white dress. He glances up and smiles at her in the mirror. She smiles back.

"I thought you would be more upset."

Celeste slides her arms around his waist, "Not when you look so handsome."

He turns, bringing up one hand to run it across her smooth cheek.

"I expected more of a fight."

Her features soften as she stares into his dark eyes.

"There is a part of me that is so proud of you for what you did yesterday. In the past, when we bore our souls to each other, you only spoke of how everything happened in a factual way. As if it was something that had happened to someone else. I knew you were hurting but that kind of deflection is common when neither of us could grasp the scope of what we had been involved in. We tried to rationalize our despair in our own ways to make sense of it despite the guilt I know we both felt."

Celeste takes his hand in her own.

"But yesterday, you spoke with conviction to claim control of your past. You owned up to your part in Valerie's fate at the whims of Alexander Winton. I know that must have been extremely difficult for you to admit especially in front of such a large audience."

He nods, voice low and even.

"It was."

Her tone grows slightly sharper.

"The other part of me is furious with you for broadcasting these feelings to the entire Republic. From the news reports, I'm well aware that the Federation ambassador threatened to use this information against you and that you must have felt it necessary to beat her to the punch. It's a bold move, no doubt, but perhaps a costly one. Rutherford, we were ambushed by the media while out in the city. People shouting questions at me that I could simply not answer. It brought me back to a time I wish to forget when the media made us, the parents, out to be the villains while attempting to exploit four girls in order to sell an image of excessive moral bankruptcy. And if it was just me they were after, I could handle it but now they cast doubt upon our children. They want to know about Dahlia, Rutherford. Do you understand how dangerously close to exposing her they really are?"

"I do...."

"Then why? Why would you risk it after all we've been through? You were so adamant about continuing the vaccine to keep us shielded from the unseen enemy only to practically volunteer the information before the entire Senate. Do you now believe the coast is so clear that we can reveal ourselves to the known galaxy?"

"No, Celeste. It will never entirely clear."

"Then tell me why. Was it your own guilt or a shrewd business tactic to gain sympathy with the Republic?"

"The former," he says. "When Mara Tacofer blindsided me, I had to think quickly. I felt that if I released the information, it would be in my control. It was my mistake to confess, not hers. I would not be blackmailed into submission by something I wish I could take back or crucified for a past I cannot change."

In a sense, he believed it would humanize him before the Republic in stark contrast to the previously droid-centric Federation devoid of such emotions.

Celeste clings to him tightly.

"In your control? How is it in your control with the HoloNet full of wild speculation? Did you not consider what that might do? Those statements coupled with the Centerpoint anniversary thrust our sordid lives right back into a spotlight I have tried very hard to avoid out of shame for my blind belief in that prophecy. I allowed myself to be manipulated away from my daughter, destroying our bond and any shred of a relationship we once had. I've spent years working through my self-loathing only to have it thrown back in my face all over again."

"I didn't think..."

"That's right," she says, now openly hostile and desperately trying not to be. "You didn't think. About what this would to do me or to our children. Or better yet, what about you? I know a closer look into your own past isn't something you would actively encourage. Nor are the mistakes you made something you need to be reminded of. We both have sins we cannot escape, regret and shame we will never be able to move out from under."

Her blue eyes shimmer with tears.

"All we have is the life we have made together. It's a great life, Rutherford. One we can both we proud of."

"I am, my love and I am sorry if I hurt you."

"I wish there was a way out of this..."

Rutherford holds her close as she weeps, conflicted between his personal feelings and professional obligations. His motives have a double-edge. On one hand, he could no longer live with the guilt and Mara's wealth of personal and damning information only reinforced those feelings. On the other, his objective was to malign the Federation so that the Republic would never even consider approving those permits. Valerie's legacy as a hero made a powerful point in connecting Winton to Phage by painting Rutherford as another victim of the Federation's treachery. But there were factors he never considered before he reacted - Mara's ties to Valerie and belief that he had aided Winton in the creation of Phage using the Gellar enzyme or that Celeste and their children would be targeted in ensuing media frenzy.

"There is."

She inhales, pulling back.

"How?"

"I've made a deal with the Federation. One that will benefit the Sector and divert the media's attention away from our family."

"You...what?"

"It's not quite as devious as it sounds."

She laughs in spite of herself, "I'm sure that's not entirely true."

"Perhaps not but in desperate times. I asked to meet with Mara in private to find out more about what she knows. Apparently, Valerie was someone very close to her and she mentioned a friendship with none other than Karen Winton which begs the question..."

"Did she know Melanie or Kimber?"

Rutherford shrugs, "She didn't say. She did, however, reveal the rationale behind her personal attack against me. Mara believes I purposefully allowed Winton to abscond with Valerie so that he could sabotage the Federation project and use her genetic material to create Phage."

Celeste blinks, horrified.

"Create Phage? How can that even be possible?"

"She showed me Valerie's DNA sequence and explained that she possessed a specific enzyme crucial in the biological part of Phage's creation process. No other enzyme has been seen before which is why Winton wanted her in the first place."

"Oh, Rutherford, that means her own murderer was...a part of her?"

"In some sick way, yes and I can understand now why Mara would and probably always will blame me for it. After I explained that I had no knowledge in this project, we came to the conclusion that both the Federation and I were part of Winton's master manipulation. The past mistakes of our separate factions were something we could endlessly debate without resolution and we both needed one. Therefore, we decided to work together in the best interest of free enterprise and the Republic client."

She wipes the corners of her eyes.

"That's awfully noble for the Corporate Sector. I can't imagine the Direx Board is thrilled."

"Probably not but they will have to accept it in order for us to remain a prominent trade partner with the Republic. We have our other clients as well but with the surge of Republic territories, this is too large a deal not to close by any means necessary. The Federation and the Sector are willing to put their past differences aside for a potentially lucrative partnership."

Celeste crosses her arms.

"How do you plan to pull this off?"

Rutherford smiles slyly before leaning in to kiss her.

"Leave that to me."



-TBC