Faction A Canvas With Two Faces [Code Zero & Corpos]

[Das]

​

Known for its exclusive casinos and vibrant night life, Cantonica is one of the CorpSec's most important worlds. Opportunity is plentiful and the night is young. The galaxy is changing, and the Sector must change with it - despite their differences, the Corpos and Zeroes can agree on at least that much. In the wealthy commerce district, the Sector's elite convene to strike new deals and forge powerful corporate alliances. Across town, hidden among the warehouse district's sea of storage buildings, Zeroes and Shadowrunners are throwing a party to commemorate new beginnings and fresh starts.

The Sector is a canvas with two faces. Time to see who'll show theirs first.

Objective I: Never Fade Away (CODE ZERO)​

In one of Canto Bight's innumerable warehouses, the Blue Suns street gang is throwing the rave of the century, or at least that's what they're telling everyone. The warehouse district is a rundown section of Cantonica's capital, seemingly immune to the turn-of-the-century gentrification that's swept the arid world. It's grimy, it's seedy, and it's no place to travel alone in the dark. But the night air is thick and the Blue Suns have air conditioning, so what's the harm in a little 'house party?' Hundreds of beings from all over Cantonica -and even beyond- are flocking to the Blue Suns' gig. Security is lax and reservations don't exist. Bring your booze, spice, and chrome - tonight's gonna be WILD!
​

OOC: This is a social objective for Code Zero operatives, cyberpunks, and independents who want to make some new connections!

Objective II: The Room Where It Happens (CORPSEC)​

Standing a cut above the rest of Canto Bight's gambling halls is the premier Crescent Royale Casino. Its domed roofline can be seen from nearly everywhere in the commerce district, making it the perfect place for the Corpos to host an economic conference. Open invitations have spread throughout the galaxy's corporate networks, reaching CEOs, investors, and benefactors everywhere. The Sector has needs, and with warring factions sprouting like weeds across the galaxy, those needs must be fulfilled promptly. Interested in expanding the CSA's defense network, ExO Castor Crane awaits his esteemed guests alongside a cadre of Corpos in the Crescent's lavish conference chamber.

OOC: This is a social objective for Corpos and their supporters to make connections, secure deals, and broker alliances!

Spoiler: OOC Tag List

Das | Castor Crane | Reggie | Zenric | Danger Arceneau | Casteel Mer'taal | Tizdalle Jyll | Makai Dashiell | Judah Dashiell | Lodd Grimmin | Commodore Helix | Zoey Bradiss | Cyran Vaas | Marek Rekali | Aiden Rennek | Damian A. Drake | Lilith Nytehand | Hex | Maestus | Tibera Jessen | Tessa Sedaire | Saga | Malcoma Hesse

 

[Lodd Grimmin]

THE BEATING HEART

Castor Crane ​

As the Trade Federation's Minister gracefully entered the Conference Room at the Crescent Royale Casino, a group of esteemed officials from the conglomerate trailed closely behind. The Trade Federation of Planets had experienced a successful revival, with the return of Gat Tambor, the Founder and First Director, from hiding propelling them to new levels of success and influence across dozens of outlying systems. With such fortunate news, they couldn't pass up the chance to participate in the economic conference, especially since they had recently hosted one themselves.

With the promise of lucrative defense contracts and extensive agreements with the Corporate Sector Authority, the opportunity for profit seemed to grow by the hour. The upper echelons of the Federation were well acquainted with the Authority's ExO, Castor Cane, who was known for his expectational leadership skills and unparalleled influence amongst the resurgent Corporate Sector.

He exchanged a meaningful gaze, his bug-like eyes darting from one end of the table to the another in recognition of the other corporate powerhouses of the Chaos Era, each having control over various industries like pharmaceuticals and formidable shipyards which made their sponsorship of the Authority that much more needed given the current state of affairs.

"We are honored by your invitation, ExO Cane. The Trade Federation of Planets is keenly interested in establishing long-term ties with the Sector Authority." A simple statement but one to drive the conversation in the proper direction.

 

[Malcoma Hesse]

It took a lot for Malcoma to feel overdressed. She had somehow overlooked that this was going to be a rave. A leather dress, matching thigh-high boots and above-the-elbow gloves, and a fur shrug was not quite the vibe. She was already sweating under the bright lights and the collective, radiating body heat.

"You could take off your shawl," Damris suggested when Malcoma mentioned be slightly uncomfortable for both reasons. Mal shot him a cold stare but he only smiled back and shrugged. "Do you just want to complain or—?"

He was going to ask if she wanted solutions before she began unbuttoning the fine fastenings at the top of the fur shawl. "It infuriates me when you're right, Inkari," she replied, pulling the fur over one shoulder and handing it to Damris. It had occurred to her of course, but she had quickly shut down the idea, opting to... what? Protect her reputation? Oooo, hapan shoulders, scandalous. No, she was just slightly inconvenienced and moody because of it. At least she felt safe enough around the men with her tonight to show her true feelings. Damris, for one, knowing her entire background, truly appreciated it, but also in turn was comfortable enough with her to make fun of her for it every so often.

He slung it over his arm that already had her purse hanging off it, eyes not leaving hers. "I'm sorry, I'm what?" he asked, almost laughing. He glanced over at Wynter to his left. "Did you hear that too, Rackham?"

The captain of The Undoubtedly leaned over and whispered something into the other man's ear that immediately made Damris blush lightly and fidget hotly with the cufflinks that Wynter had gifted him.

Mal smiled teasingly. "Do you lovebirds need a change of venue? A room perhaps?"

Clearing his throat, Damris straightened his back against the bar he was leaning on. "The dance floor will do."

Mal huffed inquisitively and glanced over her shoulder towards the growing dancing crowd. She looked back to both men. "Very classy."

Whatever composure Damris had regained in the last few seconds scattered again. Mal laughed at the horrified look that had instantly replaced the smugness on his face.

"But you're right," Mal continued, enunciating the last word. "Again." Her gave shifted over to Wyn. "Can you dance anything but the waltz?" It occurred to her that she actually did not know.

Wynter Rackham

 

[Danger Arceneau]

The Beating Heart
OBJECTIVE II: Feel free to Approach for chat or business
Lodd Grimmin Castor Crane | Glistaweb Outfit & x | x | x | x | ​

Smoke curled lazily towards the ceiling as Danger Arceneau's cat-like green eyes surveyed the bustling Casino balcony, her gaze drifting towards the lavish business conference room beyond. Entrepreneurs and CEOs mingled eagerly, each vying for a moment with ExO Crane. It had been a while since Danger had engaged with the Corpos, but she was no stranger to their world. In the past, she had done business with various iterations of the Corporate Sector Authority, even serving on their board for a time. Now, with change in the air, Danger was curious to see how Crane would navigate this new landscape.

Change meant progress, and progress meant profit. In her widowhood, the Queen of Trade kept herself busy with networking events, business dinners, and reconnecting with the galaxy's movers and shakers.

Over the years, time had been kind to Danger. Silver streaks threaded through her rich auburn hair, adding to her allure as a voluptuous Hapan descendant hailing from Tatooine. The black of her dress only enhanced her aged beauty, devotedly keeping to the mourning period of her deceased husband. Renowned for her Southern System charm and fair business dealings, Danger had made a name for herself across countless enterprises. Unlike men who viewed business as war, Danger saw it as lovemaking -- a seductive exchange where all parties should walk away satisfied at the end of negotiations.

Carefully, she brought her two fingers up to her mouth, taking another deep drag of her vice as she let the nicotine hit settle strained nerves. Well, reckon it is time to get a move along, she mused to herself.

 

[Makai Dashiell]

Objective : II
​

Last time he was in a casino, it had been with Noah Corek Jr. , where he and Jay-R had gotten caught up with the wrong crowd in a casino heist. No fault of their own of course, they had just been too involved in a game ot sabacc to recognize the signs in the high rollers room.

This time he didn't expect any problems ; a meeting of business types and various elite in the galaxy. In addition to the looming fact he would be in charge of his fathers business for a few months, he would also have to work on his own fledging holdings company.

Drink in hand, he observed the room for a moment. There was Danger Arceneau , naturally he knew she was coming, but he was trying to place any other faces he might know. Castor Crane was one he didn't know but had seen enough of to get an idea of the man, apparently eager to make the Corporate Sector more of a presence once again.

Come to think of it, Makai wasn't so such the Corporate Sector had been much of a powerhouse since he was a young boy. It would be interesting to see if Mister Crane would turn that around.

A good time to do it in his opinion. Between the Jedi fighting the Sith and Mandos, expansion could be done aggressively while governments tended to look the other way, overwhelmed and overworked.

 

[Alicia Drey]

Rule of Two.
​

"Information is a commodity. It can be traded, sold, and purchased. And in the end, credits are only as useful as the secrets they can buy."
-- Darth Bane.

​

Tags: Lodd Grimmin Danger Arceneau Castor Crane Makai Dashiell
Location: Canto Blight

A small blonde Human female, of unconventional features and long hair- more sulphuric then they were blonde- entered the casino in a uniform similar to the one she had worn when they had attended the Trade Federation Trade Conference on board the Meniium. Alicia Drey was a former business entrepreneur who had made her abundant wealth and success in the 840s through the creation of a portfolio of successful businesses and arrangements made across the Galaxy. Since resurfacing in the 900s, Alicia had come out of retirement to seek new ventures, contacts and investment that had brought her to Canto Blight.

Of course, Alicia was secretly Darth Ayra, but CORPSEC and the other guests that had gathered in the hall did not need to know that. Ayra had concentrated her Force abilities to the point of being so small that only an extremely powerful Force-sensitive would sense that she was a follower of the dark side and even then that depended on whether or not they were looking. Alicia's identity and papers were a well built false-identity that benefited Ayra greatly in her dealings because, as a follower of the Rule of Two, there was a certain clandestine nature to her work that was followed to avoid the scrutiny of the many enemies she had throughout the Galaxy.

Having been invited to the gathering Alicia checked in with the nearby protocol unit that was waiting at the entrance to the hall. Turning her gaze away from the droid Alicia found herself looking at the Subacc table and decided that she would play a few games to break the ice. As a custom to her entrance the protocol droid raised it's sound and made an announcement to the gathered crowd:

"Honoured guests. It is with humble pride that CORPSEC introduces the return of Alicia Drey: the Chandrilian multi-millionaire and entrepreneur who has come out of retirement to attend our conference. Please make your way to the nearest terminal to gaze upon Ms. Drey's successful ventures, and portfolio, which can be found on here. Ms. Drey has informed us that she has attended our conference in the hopes of making mutual acquaintances, seeking to invest in brand new projects, and ventures. When you are finished you will find Ms. Drey at the Subacc tables."

 

[Tizdalle Jyll]

Location: Warehouse | Canto Bight | Cantonica
Tags: Das | Malcoma Hesse | OPEN
Wearing: Overalls and Tank

Cantonica was a long ways from home. But Denon wasn’t the only place that my business could flourish. As my reputation has grown, I received a few inquiries from a group called Code Zero. Specifically I had done a few upgrades for members of the CyberVipers and a few now considered me a member of the cabal. It was flattering if the fact that my base of operations had me pretty well separated at the moment. But things change. And I love my work. If the Zeroes could get me more work than I have on Denon, relocation wouldn’t be the worst thing in the galaxy.

I happened to be upgrading one of the Vipers when the Blue Suns announced their party. Proximity and a job well done had landed me an invitation to a party. A party was a good way to make contacts and see what the possibilities were. Plus a night of dancing, music, drinking and maybe more, with a group of my type of people would be a nice change of pace.

The Vipers knew that I wasn’t much for carrying weapons, even though some of the cybernetics I had been working on could be very useful in a fight, so they offered to escort me through the warehouse district to the party. We weren’t far through the doors when everyone broke up and went in search of their own form of entertainment. I guess I will have to hope that one of them responds to their comm at the end of the party. Of course if it was everything that the party was advertised as, it might be bright and sunny outside by then and I’d be quite safe walking the streets back to the starport on my own.

With the Vipers spreading out to the four corners of the rave I was on my own for the foreseeable future. The volume and flashing lights were not usually conducive to clear thoughts. But I didn’t mind one bit, and it wasn’t like I came looking for clear thoughts and logic. I came looking for fun. So what first? A drink? Some other consumable? Or just head out onto the dance floor? If I’m looking to broaden my network I might need to refrain from altering my mental state too much too early. So I made my way into the crowded dance floor and quickly was lost in the rhythm of the music, bouncing up and down, swaying to and fro and bumping shoulders with others who didn’t mind as we were all out for a good time.

 

[Marek Rekali]

Objective 1

To say Marek was excited to be here was a bit of an overstatement. Marek wasn’t even really sure what he was made for. He knew that he was a clone, of another Marek who ran a few corporations so many years ago. He woke up on Lianna with the controls to an old Slipstream shuttle, parts of the Obsidian Armor used by his template, and a lightsaber that called to him. The template’s money and power had gone to his assistant, it seemed, but there was still more for Marek to do.

Its what brought him to Canto Bight. The Strandcast knew that he could do some bounty hunting. The whole focus on the Force? The dark holocrons he had been given? He stepped into the warehouse where he was told it was all to be. Lightsaber, cast in a black metal on his hip, and his right hand, part of the armor that he found, that replicated the effects of a weakened Phade cybernetic.

Marek walked in with the air of a man who knew where he was going, but not necessarily who he was supposed to see. Stepping up to the bar and ordering a Corellian Fireball, he surveyed the party.

 

[Castor Crane]

​

Tags: Lodd Grimmin | Danger Arceneau | Makai Dashiell | Alicia Drey
At the Crescent Royale Casino on CANTONICA...

Castor's cybernetic eyes dilated and contracted like the aperture of an old camera, adjusting as he examined the collection of potential sponsors present this evening. The corner of his lips curled into a thin smirk. He couldn't help it. The ExO knew that his invitations would be like sugar to ants in the corporate networks of the galaxy. But, he was honestly just as humble as he was expectant. Castor knew that Canto Bight was quite a long trip for many of his guests. He appreciated their willingness to meet with him and his PreX's on their home turf.

The first to arrive was the Minister of the Trade Federation, one Lodd Grimmin whom Caster was already familiar with. The CorpSec was largely chartered by the old Confederacy, which of course included powerful entities like the Techno Union, InterGalactic Banking Clan, and - of course - the Trade Federation of Planets. In a way, it was almost a family reunion. Castor regarded the Neimoidian with a respectful nod.

"We are honored by your invitation, ExO Cane. The Trade Federation of Planets is keenly interested in establishing long-term ties with the Sector Authority."

"As are we by your presence here tonight, Minister Grimmin. I look forward to discussing our future with the Trade Federation."

Following the Minister was a small stream of magnates and investors. Most of them were small fish in the proverbial big pond that was the CorpSec, but there were exceptions: Danger Arceneau the Trade Queen herself, who's reputation for lucrative arrangements preceded her by lightyears; and Makai Dashiell who Castor only recognized by his surname. He watched with chilling attention as they filtered in and found their seats at the conference table. When he was satisfied with the present company, he motioned for a pair of security droids to close the conference room doors. Castor then rose from his chair at the head of the table and cleared his throat.

"Thank you, all of you, for being here tonight. My colleagues on the DireX board and I are mindful of just how far from home Cantonica is for many of you, and we hope your complementary room and board here at the Crescent Royale will be worth the trip to our end of the Hydian Way." The executive tapped his finger lightly against the polished table as he spoke, a social tic he'd picked up somewhere between his service on Taris and the present where he stood right now.

He hated it.

"I'm ExO Castor Crane," he continued, "head of the DireX board and the Corporate Sector Authority. It's an honor to meet you all face-to-face."

He gave a curt handwave, gesturing for refreshments from the retinue of servant droids on the far side of the chamber. With haste, they filled glasses with fine champagne and made sure each guest had one in hand before scurrying away from the party. Castor raised his glass, a wolfish smile forming on his well-groomed face.

"To future partnerships!" he said, raising the glass. 'To credits,' he thought to himself.

​

 

[Casteel Mer'taal]

OBJECTIVE II | Room where it happens
Feel free to Approach
Interacting with: Makai Dashiell
​

Casteel strode into the opulent halls of the Crescent Royale Casino on Catonica with the effortless grace of a seasoned executive. His ice-blue eyes scanned the room, taking in the extravagant surroundings with a mixture of familiarity and mild disdain. Dressed impeccably in a tailored suit that spoke of refined taste and sophistication, his platinum blonde hair seemed to shimmer under the soft lights of the casino.

As he made his way through the crowd, Casteel's aloof demeanor masked his keen observation of those around him. He was here at the invitation of the Exo of the Corporate Sector Authority, seeking to expand the reach of Corseca Bank into new territories. Networking was crucial in his line of work, and he was always on the lookout for potential financial backers to support his bank's endeavors.

However, his plans were momentarily derailed when his gaze fell upon the familiar face of Makai Dashiell. Despite his years of training in high society etiquette, inwardly, Casteel couldn't help but feel a twinge of irritation at the sight of the young Dashiell.

"Well, if it isn't Makky," Casteel remarked with a polite smile, his tone laced with a hint of sarcasm. "Seems our paths are crossing more often these days."

Makai's easygoing demeanor seemed to contrast sharply with Casteel's polished facade, but there was an undeniable tension between them, born from their previous encounters. Though Casteel begrudgingly acknowledged Makai's persistence, he couldn't shake the annoyance lingering beneath the surface.

"Perhaps you'll be gracing the club with your presence more often now," Casteel continued, his words dripping with subtle condescension. Despite his best efforts to maintain his composure, there was no denying the underlying rivalry between them.

 

[Danger Arceneau]

The Beating Heart
OBJECTIVE II: Feel free to Approach for chat or business
Castor Crane | Glistaweb Outfit & x | x | x | x | ​

Well, well, ain't he a sight for sore eyes, Danger thought to herself, taking another drag from her cigarillo as she listened to Castor Crane 's opening speech. A swarthy jaw, toned figure, cybernetic eyes a bright Corseca red. One could see that the board placed a man who looked good in the suit with enough charisma to collect all the banthaflies with all that honey he dripped from his lips. Amused, she had to give it to him; holding her glass of whiskey high for a toast, she silently toasted to future partnerships.

As the host gave the signal to continue, Danger let out a stream of spicy blue-white smoke before stubbing out her cigarillo in a nearby ashtray. When it came to mingling, it was always wise to keep one hand free. In this case, she opted to hold onto her drink rather than her vice.

With a tilt of her auburn head, she surveyed the room, noticing that ExO Crane was making his rounds. Never one to follow the crowd and always one to take the lead, the Queen of Trade made her way over to Crane with a confident sway and a full-lipped smile.

"I must say, ExO Crane, you certainly know how to host a conference," her voice had a slow, molten quality, each word dripping with honey and warmed by the Tatooine suns.

"Danger Arceneau, from Arceneau Trade Company," her vibrant emerald eyes met the ExO's gaze with cordial hospitality and the charm of the Southern Systems as she extended her hand in greeting.

"It's a pleasure to make your acquaintance."

 

[Alicia Drey]

Tags: Danger Arceneau Castor Crane

"As it is mine," Alicia chimed in.

Behind her the Subacc table that she had taken to play a few games were beginning a new round with the other guests that Castor had invited to the conference. With the aide of the Force Alicia had the ability to precognitively tell what cards she would be drawn, what the dealer held and the thoughts of her adversaries at the table. During her youth, in her formal days as the apprentice, Alicia had used this ability to win a lot of Subacc games. But under the watchful gaze of CORPSEC Alicia was a far more cunning individual. She had deliberately lost some games, won others, so that her losses were not that great, and most importantly avoid the scrutiny that would have come if she had won every game.

"Fantastic to see you after all these years, Ms. Arceneau. You probably don't remember me but this isn't the first time we have been at one of these gatherings. But I think this is the first time I have had the moment to introduce myself to you, and of course, our host Castor Crane." Alicia planted a smile at the pair of them while folding her arms across her chest. "Hopefully our meeting here tonight is just the start of a wonderful business relationship- both with the Arceneau Trade Company- and CORPSEC. Tell me, Castor, what is it that you are exactly hoping to accomplish with this conference?"

It wasn't an accusatory question. Rather it laid in genuine intrigue.

 

[Makai Dashiell]

Objective II : Interacting with Casteel Mer'taal ​

It was no surprise to see Casteel at such an event. He had aligned himself with Danger early in the game, no doubt built connections with others while he had been an escort to Ellie throughout the years.

Nor was it no surprise the man was just as irritating as the day they had met. While he had asked for Casteels assistance in the not too distant past, he still preferred to keep the interactions to a bare minimum. A difficult task when the blonde-haired man was considered a friend by his fiancée. It drew on a great deal of his patience to deal with Casteel for a long period of time.

This was going to be one of those occasions.

Speech was over, champagne downed, and now the mingling was to be done. As much as he didn’t want to speak to Casteel, he did have a few business related questions for the blonde haired bastard so it was probably fortuitous they ran into one another again.

“Looking for another bloody lip Castie?”

Makai currently didn’t have a lot of time for a country club. Any free time he had was spent with Ellie or engaged in a hobby he actually enjoyed. Graviball spring training was beginning and Rue was assisting him in scouring stats for his fantasy team.

“Although I suppose it is excellent timing that I ran into you. I need to find an assistant for my father who is anal retentive, organized, and relatively eager.”

Casteel had the pedigree of a overbred hound, resulting in a high strung, posh attitude. Annoying personally, but needed for business.

“Seemed the type you hang around, wondering if you had any leads or direction to point me in.”

 

[Commodore Helix]

Objective II: The Room Where It Happens
Tags: Open​

Helix had fallen into a bit of a habit of tardiness lately. The recent explosive growth of his assets had lead to him actually having to struggle to meet all of his simultaneous meetings and obligations. His fingers were now in a few too many pies for complete timeliness across the board, and it showed.

As such, he arrived a few minutes late, emerging silently into the room as proceedings had already begun, and taking a seat without speaking up and interrupting. He'd brought a pair of H4X models with him; these he left outside the room. He favored them as personal security during lower-risk ops like this, as they were fully capable of masquerading as organic bodyguards. He could see the building's security was more than tight enough on its own, but he never went anywhere without at least a small element of his own droids.

In truth, he was unsure why he was here. Certainly, Castor Crane was among the few people in the galaxy with the money and power to actually engage his services on a grand scale, but the Authority had rules and standards to their actions, cutthroat as they were. They didn't historically seem fond of open rogue elements, or of those who wouldn't be bribed or controlled beyond a simple contract.

Helix's dealings with "proper" corporations had historically been shaky, due to his stalwart refusal to pick sides in the galaxy or submit to anything like oversight. People in power didn't like unpredictable elements in their plans. Still, if Crane had something for him to do, he'd do it. Corpo money was just as shiny as anyone else's, and if that meant he'd have to play it nice for the duration of a given contract, so be it. He leaned forward in his chair, folded his metal hands serenely on the table, and listened to all that was transpiring.

 

[Casteel Mer'taal]

OBJECTIVE II | Room where it happens
Feel free to Approach
Interacting with: Makai Dashiell
​

"Even the stars deign to cast their light upon hapless souls, now and then, Makky," Casteel intoned with a refined elegance that bespoke his high society upbringing. Each syllable dripped with sophistication, carefully chosen to convey an air of privilege and authority. Though beneath his composed exterior, there simmered a trace of irritation at the reminder of the pugilist bout at the club, an annoyance masked by a subtle edge of sarcasm that might have passed for flattery to any eavesdroppers.

At the mention of assistance for Judah Dashiell, a barely perceptible lift of Casteel's dark brow betrayed his interest, directed discreetly toward Makai. Naturally, the banking executive noted the veiled nature of the request, laced with qualifiers that did not escape his discerning gaze. There was a few that came to mind that would be perfect for such a position, however, Casteel would not make it easy. Makai still had yet to truly prove himself worthy of Myra Arceneau, to stand beside her in a manner that would ensure no smear of her reputation and ensure her ability to reign supreme to the legacy she will inherit.

"This is precisely why your presence at the club is indispensable," Casteel replied with a crisp aristocratic air, his arctic blue eyes sweeping the room, assessing the patrons and business luminaries for potential networking and investment opportunities.

"Had you remained, you would have learned the cardinal rule: one does not seek favors without first extending hospitality," he continued, alluding to the time-honored tradition of wining, dining, and engaging in small talk. It was a dance of social etiquette with which Judah Dashiell was intimately acquainted.

Regrettably, his son remained oblivious to the societal obligations incumbent upon him.

Were it not for the imperative of safeguarding Myra's standing, welfare, and reputation, Casteel would have been content to let Makai flounder like an anchor in the sea. Yet, to a certain extent, a nobleman was duty-bound to extend charity to those less fortunate.

"At least buy me a drink first." He followed up as a cue for Makai Dashiell .

 

[Makai Dashiell]

Commodore Helix | Casteel Mer'taal​

Makai watched someone arrive fashionably late that he hadn't seen before. He had been spending more time in business circles, handling the socializing side of things, and this was a new face. At the very least the presence of the business sentient gave a small distraction from the droning on that was Casteel.

He had expected the man not to help him. Not that it was a big ask in his opinion ; drop a few names of who would be perfect as an assistant. It was helping the person Casteel knew more than himself if one really thought about it.

"Buy you a drink first? Castie, I'm asking for a few names, not taking you into my bed for the night."

A broad grin was flashed in the direction of the overly pompous man.

"I've never been into blondes, sorry."

Thoroughly amused with himself, iced azure eyes scanned the crowd once again, watching as Danger spoke someone. Ever popular, he wasn't surprised. Despite the small amount of time that had passed since Alric's passing, if they were out at the same function, he kept one eye on her.

"I will just ask Ellie, I'm sure she has similar contacts. Apologies for placing a burden on you, Casteel."

 

[Casteel Mer'taal]

OBJECTIVE II | Room where it happens
Feel free to Approach
Interacting with: Makai Dashiell
​

Casteel arched a refined brow, unsurprised by Makai's attempt to twist his words so crudely. Yet, as a Companion turned banking executive, he was not one to be outdone by such a brazen challenge. Beneath their facade of civility lay an undercurrent of competition, a dynamic that would persist for Myra's sake. They would maintain the facade of harmony, though true friendship may seem out of reach. Instead, Casteel would gently remind Makai of his duties and obligations, while the younger Dashiell would likely respond with a barbed retort, perpetuating their cycle of biting remarks until their paths diverged.

"To engage in such intimacies with me would require not only a formal contract but also approval from the guild, Makky," Casteel replied coolly, adjusting the cuffs of his pristine dress shirt beneath his tailored blazer.

"And ultimately, my own consent. While I have no doubt you could benefit from guidance in matters of romance, I would prefer not to serve as your tutor in matters of the heart, much like our ventures on the dance floor." His voice possessed a velvety richness, dripping with sophistication and refinement, the subtle smirk playing at the corners of his mouth, not escaping notice. Makai's desire to refine his skills in the ballroom had not gone unnoticed, and Casteel made his services known with an air of subtle elegance. If anything, he would be an unforgiving teacher, but effective in his methodologies.

"At least keep up with the social etiquette expected of such transactions when procuring a favor." He added, his glacial gaze returning towards Makai, finishing with the adjustment of his blazer.

"Myra would not be able to assist in the sort of recommendations I would be able to provide you." There was no lie in his clipped, refined tone, merely being factual regarding the types of circles and acquaintances the Arcneeau Heiress would meet and know compared to Casteel, who would not only be able to vouch for their resume but also what matter of history, gossip, and the validity of their background.

 

[Makai Dashiell]

Dealing with ol' Castie was always exhausting.

Why the man insisted on being difficult was beyond him. Makai imagined most of it was his upbringing ; high-brow, best of the best, everything having to be just so. Add in his former position as a high-society Companion to only the wealthiest with a discerning eye. All fueled the most annoying nature that was designed to irritate him.

How Ellie put up with this for years was far beyond him.

Makai didn't see the point in asking for a drink in return. As far as the half-Galan could tell, Casteel hated him. Why the blonde wanted to subjugate himself his presence even more than what was necessary was a mystery.

Ignoring the complexities of a contract and consent and everything else that apparently was involved in taking Casteel in a manly fashion, Makai moved onto the more important matters.

"Why spend time with me when you hate me Casteel? I can give give you the credits for a drink and we can call it even."

Makai held up a hand.

"However, we can do even more than a drink. I can take you to dinner even Castie. I'm sure you'll enjoy our time together just as much as I will."

Casteel Mer'taal

 

[Casteel Mer'taal]

OBJECTIVE II | Room where it happens
Feel free to Approach
Interacting with: Makai Dashiell
​

Makai Dashiell's presumption that Casteel harbored enmity towards him proved to be unfounded; rather, the Anaxasi aristocrat simply questioned Makai's suitability as Myra Arceneau's consort. Myra's emotional fluctuations over the years, coupled with Makai's apparent lack of effort to establish a connection, left Casteel viewing him with a sense of inadequacy.

For Casteel, the pursuit of a lady demanded decisiveness and adherence to traditional courtship etiquette. Makai's sudden appearance, expecting Myra to wait for him, left a bitter taste in Casteel's mouth, reinforcing his regret for not pressing his own suit earlier, before the arrival of Lord Blythe and Judah Dashiell's prodigal son.

"You are mistaken, Makky boy," Casteel countered, his words dripping with sophistication and authority, carefully chosen to convey his reasoning.

"I hold no animosity towards you. Rather, I offer advice on the standards expected of a consort of Myra Arceneau and the heir of Salacia Consolidated." No animosity, but certainly maintained a begrudged competitiveness and banter. With a gaze as piercing as the overhead casino lights casting shadows over his chiseled features, Casteel continued, explaining the importance of social etiquette and tradition in navigating societal expectations.

“Your father is fully aware of social expectations and etiquette expected of a businessman, and while you may scoff at social tradition, it is what will ensure your ability to blend into the societal scenarios that Myra will be appealing.” His words were delivered without insult or passive aggression, reflecting his genuine desire to assist Myra, Danger, and Judah. Oh, certainly like a game of Dejarik, he was planning the moves that would best benefit him, but his knowledge and expertise were offered, if begrudgingly, to Makai if Myra was so insistent on retaining him by her side.

At least until the Dashiell proved himself.

“I’ll accept the offer of dinner. I do enjoy a perfectly grilled nerf steak,” Casteel replied, accepting Makai's invitation to dinner with a hint of challenge in his smile.

“I look forward to the meal. You have my contact. Let me know when.”

 

[Lodd Grimmin]

THE BEATING HEART

Castor Crane Danger Arceneau Alicia Drey ​

"Ah....Miss Arceneau. The Director would like to apologize for cutting your meeting short on board the Meniium. He is hopeful that we can establish proper relations in a more private setting." With eyes resembling those of a bug, the Minister watched intently as the Queen of Trade Danger Arceneau make her grand entrance into the conference room, donning a breathtaking outfit.

The Trade Federation's Director had a crucial message to deliver to the Head of the Arceneau Trade Company about the brief talks on board the Meniium Industrial Station. It was imperative that they find a secluded spot to converse, far from the curious gazes of the Corporate Sector and any other competitors present.

He offered a simple nod in the direction of ExO Castor Crane as they spoke highly of him, and that the Corporate Sector was also keenly interested in establishing corporate ties with the Trade Federation of Planets.

Raising his own glass of fine champagne in celebration as the retinue of servant droids moved around the room, filling cups with a myriad of other beverages before scurrying away just as quickly.

"So tell us, ExO Crane. How do you plan to expand the Corporate Sector?"