Faction A Spy for a Spy: The First Chapter

[Liin Terallo]

Mon Gazza, Tatooine System – Mon Gazza, the sun-scorched jewel of the Outer Rim, is once again the epicenter of galactic spectacle. The famed desert planet is hosting a highly anticipated podrace today, drawing crowds from across the galaxy to witness the thrilling and dangerous competition. However, beneath the roar of engines and the cheers of the audience, a more secretive event is unfolding just out of public view.

Rumors have been swirling about an exclusive meeting between leaders of the Galactic High Society and the Hutt Cartel, though official sources have yet to confirm the nature of their gathering. While the public's attention is fixated on the race, with pilots pushing their engines to the limit, the real business appears to be taking place behind closed doors - far from the watchful eyes of the cameras.

What exactly is transpiring in the plush halls of the Mon Gazza racetrack venue remains shrouded in mystery. Some claim that the meeting is an attempt to forge a new understanding between the notoriously rival factions, while others suspect darker, more covert dealings are at play. The Galactic High Society's most influential figures, known for their wealth, charm, and cunning, have been seen mingling with the infamous Hutt cartel bosses in what can only be described as an unusual alliance.

For now, all that is certain is that the race is the distraction - an elaborate smokescreen designed to shield the true purpose of the gathering from public scrutiny. A quick glance at the elite guests arriving paints a picture of extravagance: glittering gowns, pristine suits, and luxurious transport. Yet, their smiles do little to mask the underlying tension that hangs in the air. Even among the ostentatious trappings of wealth, it's clear that something far more complex is unfolding.

"Everyone's here for the race," said one anonymous observer, who claimed to have overheard hushed conversations among the attendees. "But there's a deal being struck - something bigger than we can see."

No official statements have been released by either party, and the organizers of the race are tight-lipped about the nature of the event. However, sources close to the Cartel have hinted that the outcome of the race itself could play a significant role in the negotiations - though the details remain unclear. If true, it would mark a departure from traditional podracing politics, where betting and pride typically reign supreme.

As the engines of the podracers rev and the excitement builds, the world watches with bated breath. But those with keen eyes know that the true race is taking place in the shadows - one that could have far-reaching consequences for both the Galactic High Society and the Hutt Cartel, and perhaps even the entire galaxy.

Only time will tell whether the public spectacle is truly all there is to see, or if today's events are merely a prelude to something much more significant.​

​

---

Objective 1: Shimmer and Slime - The venue is set up with luxury in mind. Live music, fancy decor, lavish foods and the finest drinks are on hand for both factions (and any sneaky members of the public) to enjoy. Come and mingle or broker some deals.

Objective 2: A Sweet Track - The Mon Gazza Speedway is home to one of the most challenging tracks ever devised! Watch the race and place your bets! Or sign up and enter the race yourself!

Objective 3: BYOO - There are spice mines galore, plenty of ne'er-do-wells, soldiers, warriors and elite members of society alike. Go have some fun!

Whottoomuzz Chantin Nova Ka V3RM-X Allyson Locke Tertius C. Nargath Starman Balun Dashiell Lyssara Talis and others

 

[Whottoomuzz Chantin]

Spoiler: The Deathmark Collectors Roster

1. Krexar: A Nikto sharpshooter with a penchant for poisons, his leathery skin bearing the scars of countless battles.

2. Gorruk: A towering Gamorrean enforcer, wielding a massive vibro-axe, his brute strength matched only by his loyalty to the Cartel.

3. Sskeer: A Trandoshan tracker, his cold, reptilian eyes always calculating, known for his expertise in hand-to-hand combat.

4. Vexla: A Rodian explosives expert, her green skin often camouflaged in urban environments, with a mischievous glint in her multifaceted eyes.

5. Durok: A Duros pilot and tech specialist, his smooth blue skin and red eyes concealing a mind adept at slicing and infiltration.

6. Nymara: A Nautolan seductress and intelligence gatherer, her head-tails often adorned with jeweled ornaments, using charm to extract secrets.

7. Kholak: A Kaleesh warrior-priest, his face concealed behind a traditional bone mask, blending spirituality with deadly precision.

8. Zarin: A Nagai swordsman, his pale skin and jet-black hair giving him a ghostly appearance, his vibroblade an extension of his will.

9. Threx: A burly Weequay brawler, his weathered skin and topknot marking him as a veteran of many skirmishes.

10. Lorra: A lithe Twi'lek acrobat and thief, her blue lekku often wrapped around her neck, skilled in stealth and infiltration.

11. Mordo: A hulking Houk bruiser, his thick hide making him a formidable opponent in close quarters.

12. Siv: A sly Devaronian con artist, his red skin and sharp horns often hidden beneath a hood, adept at deception and disguise.

The time had come, the race had started. The entourage of the Chantin Kadijic retreated from their box seats to the prearranged destination.

Accompanying Whottoomuzz were his bodyguards dressed as decorative consorts: Nymara the Nautolan, Lorra the Twi'lek, Zarin the Nagai, and, most prized among them, the Hutt's spouse: Xoff Chantin the Zeltron. The remainder of his guard took inconspicuous positions among the crowd, remained at the Starport, or otherwise stayed out of sight to intervene only if something threatened to disrupt the meeting area.

The Hutt approached upon the throne of his repulsor-sedan, a gold and electrum gilded device, inset with gems. The sedan hummed while holding up the 3000+ lbs Hutt and his guard-consorts. Each corner had a cushioned pedestal for each of the consorts to recline upon, embroidered and decorated to complement the unique skin tones of each.

Were it not for the Hutt's weight, both physical and figurative, the device and clothing would be gaudy or garish. The reputation of the Hutt name, however, gave unspoken credit to the craftsmanship. Whether by slave or by artisan, each millimeter of the device, the clothing, the jewelry, was all hand-crafted to the Hutt's taste - and the Hutt preferred his decorations happy and comfortable, not just beautiful. Something Xoff had certainly swayed his mind on over the years.

Yes, the Zeltron was a vulnerability for Whottoomuzz, but it was a weak spot he was aware of, that knew it was a weak spot, and had proven loyal time and again, even when they strayed in the short term.

Looking upon his Zeltron, Whottoomuzz's expression softened slightly. Xoff had only 50, maybe 60 years of lifespan left, yet rejected any suggestions of extending his lifespan with modifications. The thought of seeing the Zeltron age and wither away and having to live centuries without them caused a sort of premature mourning. A weakness, but one that makes all the hardship and danger worth it.

Whottoomuzz averted his gaze and returned to the regal hutt-posture as soon as Xoff noticed him staring. The Zeltron sent a comforting wave through the empathic telepathy and pheromones.

These were friends that Xoff had made, or wanted to make. To the best of his ability, Whottoomuzz would make the Zeltron happy before he grew too old, and so he chose the best outfits for the consorts, spent exuberantly on the repulsor-sedan, and donned the finest hutt-sized regal robe credits could buy. He would not embarrass his spouse in front of the other attendees.

Deep down, well below any measurable facial expression, below any emotional reading, there was an insecurity. The beauty of all the other attendees made Whottoomuzz even more aware of the scars adorning his flesh that the silver piercings could not distract from.

Another comforting wave from Xoff.

Dispelling the insecurity, returned to the full confidence of a Hutt ready to talk business, both of the Chantins nodded and entered the luxurious meeting area.

OPEN (as is Xoff Chantin )​

 

[Balun Dashiell]

Wearing: Formal Suit.
Holstered: K-16 Bryar Pistol & Lightsaber.
Associates: Liin Terallo .

Balun Dashiell's place within Galactic High Society was a contradiction, a delicate balancing act between his past and his future. Once, he had been a bodyguard in service to Liin Terallo—a role that placed him squarely among the ranks of hired muscle rather than the refined elite. Yet now, he was rapidly ascending the corporate ladder, solidifying his name in the technology sector as a shipwright and manufacturer. His growing wealth and influence were undeniable, propelled forward by the formidable legacy of the Dashiell name, a name that carried weight in the world of commerce and industry.

His father, Judah Dashiell, had carved out a lasting empire in the salvage sector, a name spoken across the galactic marketplace with respect. His older brother, Makai, had taken a different yet equally ambitious path, turning the mining industry into his domain, his passion fueling an unstoppable drive. Together, the Dashiell men—Judah, Makai, and Balun—stood as titans in their respective fields, their successes intertwining to elevate the family's prestige. For Balun, every decision, every calculated risk, was another step toward cementing his own legacy. More deals, more credits, more recognition—all of it fed into the ever-growing reputation of Dashiell Retrofit™.

But there had been a time when none of this seemed possible. Once, his world had been simple, his path set—he had been a Jedi. A nameless orphan, left at the steps of the Jedi Temple on Coruscant, trained to serve the Force without question, without ties to family or legacy. He had chosen to leave that life behind. And then, at sixteen, everything had changed. His father had found him, offering him a place in a world he had never known—a world of wealth, power, and ambition. It was a life he had embraced, and one he had since mastered.

Now, as he adjusted the fine lapels of his luxurious suit, he barely recognized the boy he had once been. At only twenty-one, he already looked back on his younger self with a mix of embarrassment and detachment. He had been naïve then, blind to the realities of the galaxy. It was natural—everyone grew, everyone changed—but Balun felt so deeply rooted in who he was now that the person he had been seemed like a stranger, a shadow best left behind.

Attending today's event was about more than mere presence—it was about opportunity, strategy, and foresight. Balun wasn't just there to accompany Liin Terallo and ensure the proceedings unfolded smoothly; he was there to assess, to observe, to lay the groundwork for future business ventures. With a recently completed commission for Lazerian IV's Naval Fleet, the Orbital Foundry in the Kesh System now had room for new projects, and potential clients were gathered here in abundance. Every handshake, every conversation, could be the first step toward another lucrative deal.

Yet, beyond the business prospects, there was an undeniable pull of curiosity—particularly where the Hutts were concerned. The Cartel had long since cemented its reputation as a syndicate of criminals and kingpins, their dealings shrouded in secrecy and corruption. And if there was one thing Balun had an uncanny knack for, it was finding himself entangled in political conflicts and ethical dilemmas—always wading into the murky depths of the so-called good fight. It had been some time since he'd last been directly involved with any governing or military body, but with the Hutts present at this gathering, he couldn't help but wonder what they were up to. Whether or not such privileged information would be accessible remained to be seen, but if there was an opening, he fully intended to take it.

Whottoomuzz Chantin​

 

[Liin Terallo]

Objective: 1
Wearing: gown
Tags: Balun Dashiell Whottoomuzz Chantin Xoff Chantin OPEN

It took great care for me to arrange this meeting. Not only is it between the elites of the Galactic High Society, but also on the other side of the social spectrum; it involves those among the various ranks of the Hutt Cartel. I had chosen Mon Gazza for it's location. Not only did it involve gambling on podracing and spice, but it also offered a safe neutral space where neither side were stepping on the toes of some larger government.

But how much of this course in my political life is of my own choosing and not the Heart's? Of that I do not know. And perhaps I may never find out.

Mon Gazza is not a location where I am comfortable. Whereas I am used to a tropical and humid climate; the climate here is even hotter and very, very dry. Fortunately the inside of the venue is more temperature-controlled. The overall atmosphere of the attendees also brings about a bit of tension in me. However years of training in proper decorum in such ocassions have trained me well enough to not show any sign of unease.

Yet despite all of that I still made sure that proper protections for those in the GHS were put in place both in orbit and throughout the venue and it's surrounding areas. But more personally I have young Mister Dashiell to accompany me here today. "Thank you for joining me, Mister Dashiell. One can only expect the unexpected at events such as this."
What I did expect was to see the famous Hutt himself, flanked by companions and servants; one of which I recognized from the art museum event held not long ago. For the moment they all appear to be content. And that of course is a good thing. "Shall we welcome the honored guests?," I inquire, indicating the Hutt and his entourage with a flourished gesture.

 

[Strill Securities]

OBJECTIVE 3: WAIT AND WATCH​

Friendly Units:
NF-01 Nano-flares loaded in countermeasure launchers formation wide.
Reinforcements waiting in orbit of New Cov with jump capacitors charged:

• HB-01 Adenn Kyr'am-class Heavy Battlecarrier Adenn Kyram
• B-02 Ara'novor-class Battlecarrier Jai'galaar b' Yaim
• B-02 Ara'novor-class Battlecarrier Akaan'galaar b' Cuyam

Tag(s): Liin Terallo | Whottoomuzz Chantin

HC-03M/S Shev'la Kyramud-class Stealth Heavy Multi-role Corvette Prudii Rekr 1-1, in orbit of Mon Gazza

Stealth systems active, silent, invisible, Prudii Rekr 1-1 watched the comings and goings on Mon Gazza. New Cov was an important client, and the alor was taking no chances in so far as things were concerned. Which was exactly what he would have and did recommend when he was asked. Hutts were not exactly the trustworthy type. The type you did business with, but didn't get into business with. Their credits however, were more often than not, good. It was no small wonder many Mandalorians started their careers working for the Hutts in some capacity.

Of course, since they couldn't really trust the Hutts as far as they could throw them, they weren't exactly alone. Spar didn't need to convince Kal "Beskar" Netra to be ready to divert. Kal had recently taken over as commander of the contingent at New Cov. He was the more proactive type, sending routing patrols out to neighboring systems to root out even the slightest sign of trouble. With New Cov, you could never be too shabla sure. It was less ret'lini and more of a necessity.

Perhaps it was an unintended side effect of working on a stealth ship, but Spar's bridge crew only broke silence to alert him to data that would not be immediately available to him. The bridge, like the ship, was deathly quiet. Like the ship, they waited coiled like a predator for the slightest sign that something was out of place to spring into action. Spar kept his eyes on the main tactical display. Nothing had happened yet, and he'd had an uneventful tour thus far, but it was time to see if he got the fight that he and the rest of the crew were secretly hoping would come.

Fleet Action Summary

• Nothing much, the Prudii Rekr 1-1 is scanning for targets with it's full sensor suite including the anti-stealth sensor systems.

 

[V3RM-X]

Objective 1
Tags: Open

______________________________________________

V3RM-X had heard word that a meeting between the Galactic High Society and the Hutt Cartel would be taking place on Mon Gazza. The rumour's weren't exactly confirmed, but V3RM-X had made it his business to take any chance to gather intel he could get. He was an information broker after all, there could be information shared that any number of people would want to get their hands on. Even if there wasn't, this was a good place to gather more minor intel, or get hired for other business. He had arrived in his business outfit and with Scry on his shoulder.

He took a seat in the corner of the room and began to record everything that would happen in the area. He was also trying to access cameras remotely, but that was taking more time. For now, he simply sat and waited until he overheard something that would be worth his attention. He waited patiently while stroking Scry, who remained perched on his shoulder.

 

[Karlo Kyrr]

Cabuor​

Friendly Units:

• 'Prudii' Vuhyr'yalilyr Rammikade squad
  • Armor's Kartayl suites replaced with 'Sapan'got Sur'haai' Combat Suite and 'Verd b' Jorad' Communications Suite
  • 'Ysalamiri Birikad' Nutrient Frame carried squad wide.
• I'dadr 1-1, G-02H Vuhyr'galaar-class Heavy Gunship

Tag(s): Liin Terallo | Balun Dashiell | Whottoomuzz Chantin | V3RM-X

Equipment

• Armor:
  • Beskar'gam
    • Armor's Kartayl suites replaced with 'Sapan'got Sur'haai' Combat Suite and 'Verd b' Jorad' Communications Suite
    • 'Ysalamiri Birikad' Nutrient Frame
    • Left Vambrace:
      • CP-03V CryoBan Projector
      • PC-05V Plasma Caster
    • Right Vambrace:
      • TBP-01V Tractor-Pressor Beam Projector
      • MML-01V Miniaturized Missile Launcher
        • 4x Cretanr'ika-lcass Guided Plasma Micro-missile
        • 4x Striilir'ika-class Brilliant Micro-missile
• Implant:
  
  • 'Rammikad' Enhancement Package
  • 'Gar Tkiriyr' Neural Interface
• Weapons:
  
  • Melee:
    • 1x K-03 Kal
• Sidearm:
  
  • LRH-5A Verpine Shatter Pistol w/ 'Kyrayc Sur'haai' 1-4x Short Range Optic
    
    • 3x AP (1 loaded)
    • 3x HE
• Primary:
  
  • BR-6B Verpine Shatter Battle Rifle w/ 'Kyrayc Sur'haai' 1-12x Medium Range Optics System and UGL-02 Underbarrel Grenade Launcher
    
    • 5x SLAP (1 loaded)
    • 3x HE
    • 8x BG-02 Baradium Grenade
• Secondary:
  
  • FL-01 Verpine Shatter Flechette Launcher w/ 'Kyrayc Sur'haai' 1-4x Short Range
    
    • 3x Anti-Personnel Pellet Canister Drum (1 loaded)
    • 3x Anti-Armor Sabot Drum
• Explosives:
  
  • 2x Det-Packs
  • 1x Flex-5 Detonite Tape roll
  • 2x BG-02 Baradium Grenade
  • 2x PG-02 Incendiary Plasma Grenade
  • 3x NGG-02 Nagnol Gas Grenade
  • 3x Flash-Bang Grenades
  • 1x AWCGG-02 Anti-Energy Weapon Countermeasure Gas Grenade
  • 2x PD/AM-01 Pursuit Denial/Anti-personnel Mine

After everything he'd experienced working for NCBC and Liin Terallo Karlo should have expected just about anything. An alliance with the Hutts? That wasn't something he was expecting. Hutts couldn't exactly be trusted, but to be fair, who the haran that she did business with really could be. At least you knew where you stood with the Hutts, and when you did, they had all the subtlety or lack thereof that one would expect from them.

Where the Hutt's attenders were visibly by his side as far as could be ascertained at the moment, Karlo and Prudii squad were hidden from view by their armor's optical camouflage suites, but they very much remained by Liin's side. They hadn't quite been expecting the Jetii to be present, but it was too shabla late now to ditch their 'Ysalamiri Birikad' Nutrient Frames. He was just going to have to figure out what the outer edge of their effective range was.

They could get a couple shots off with their Verpine Shatter weapons without taxing their armor's optical camouflage systems too much, but getting into a firefight was not Karlo's first, second or even third plan. They'd have to put themselves between Liin and incoming fire, and Karlo was not thrilled about any of Prudii or himself having to do so without shields up, and it would take a moment or two for their shields to kick in once they disabled the optical camouflage systems.

"The Nagai's the priority target," he whispered into his buy'ce's mic, transmitting over their armor-to-armor laser comm squad link. "He's all yours, Ruusaan," he added. He very much doubted that the Hutt had kept the Nagai on as what he appeared to be. Nagai were known for many things, their sk

"Elek, alor," she confirmed back. He glanced momentarily at the composite feed coming from Ruusaan before closing the picture-in-picture view.

"What about that droid in the corner, alor? Should we worry about him?" chimed in Gev, half asking, half suggesting. A marker popped up on his HUD, showing him the target in question, which was now outlined in yellow. He knew a droid built for combat when they saw one, and while he couldn't say for sure, he knew that was no reason to let it go unnoticed for even a moment.

"Worry? Nayc. But watch him," he replied. A host of acknowledgement signals flashed in his HUD from the rest of the unit. Things were quiet now, but it remained to be seen if they would stay quiet. Karlo certainly wouldn't lose any sleep over having a nice quiet easy in and out just for once.

 

[Tertius C. Nargath]

OBJECTIVE: CONNECT
TAGS: Liin Terallo | Balun Dashiell | Whottoomuzz Chantin | Strill Securities | Karlo Kyrr​

The Szayel Cruiser bearing the emblem of not only the N&Z umbrella crorporation, but also the heraldry of the Marquis of Valkan thunderously exited hyperspace, as it slowly glided itself into a stable orbital position. Clearly, Mon Gazza was quite a bit out of the way of practically anything the N&Z did, so the marquis of Valkan was a bit surprised as to why this location had been chosen by Director Terallo, but given her trackrecord of doing nearly nothing without a clear head and some proper thought, Tertius dismissed the notion that this might have been a rather poor choice on her part.

As he pondered on whether or not the Strill Securities' ships weren't too far away, considering he didn't see them anywhere near the planet's orbit despite the fact he was told he'd need to use the given channels to submit his invite codes. The Eriaduan Noble found it a bit interesting they had been contracted to provide security for this venue, considering Lady Terallo had access to the best of the N&Z's security division with but the push of a button. On the other hand though, he didn't mind, as the Strill Security company was after all a renowned one, employing mandalorians who quite frankly were the best at what they did and certainly worth their weight in aurodium.

To avoid any mishaps, the Marquis quickly motioned the crew to send through the appropriate codes to the non-visible Strill Securities fleet on the appropriate channel in order to make it clear that he was in truth an invited guest to the podraces which were planned on this rather faraway place.

"It would have been nice if sir Shuklaar Kyrdol was present," The Marquis chuckled as he moved to the hangar bay of the cruiser, ready to take one of the shuttles alongside a detachment of his Valkan Guards. "That man is stiff, harsh and crude, but also a masterful engineer and a cunning warrior, respect is all the man deserves, even if at some points we are at odds."

As Tertius awaited for the all clear, so his shuttle could depart from the Cruiser and travel towards the surface, he did not waste his time to utilize his datapad in order to already send a message towards Lady Terallo, heralding his impending arrival.

 

[Xoff Chantin]

Outfit: Hutt Consort outfit (Leia slave outfit)

Spoiler: Loadout

• Beauty Blades
• ClearView Essence: Perfume
• Code Breaker Card
• Covert Compact
• Covert Kiss: Laser Lipstick
• Glow Guard
• Nite Night Nails: Polish
• Phantom Fresh
• Re-Pulse Ring

Xoff raised themself from the sedan corner to approached pair, sparing Liin Terallo and Balun Dashiell the unpleasantness some humanoids found in close proximity to a Hutt.

It's not like Whottoomuzz was difficult to see, and with Whotto's nerves acting up Xoff was more than happy to translate or speak on the Hutt's behalf.

Just before walking forward, Xoff spoke in a hushed tone to his spouse:
"Jee wamma vota uba, peetchka settah tonka wen uba foonta, okey-okey?"

Xoff found something adorable in the way the big, imposing Hutt could be the most formidable presence in a life or death negotiation, yet suffered from social anxiety from friendly meetings such as this.

With a wink and a knowing turn, Xoff departed with a sashay to greet the co-host of the evening and their stalwart, if concerned bodyguard. No infant this time - perhaps for the best. Children didn't really enjoy the sight of the big slug.

"Mr. Daishell, Ms. Terello, a pleasure to see you both again, I trust the trip from New Cov went smoothly?" A silent apology was carried through the Zeltron's empathic communication for the scantily clad consorts and the gaudy display of wealth on the sedan, but to Xoff's knowledge it was of cultural significance to the Hutt. "If I might introduce my partner, Whottoomuzz Chantin Doja"

Xoff motioned with a bow, to which Whotto nodded and raised a palm in greeting.

"Whottoomuzz has given me the honor of speaking and translating on his behalf this evening" the Zeltron continued, though formalities aside, he was more happy that Whottoomuzz was sliding out of their comfort zone to mingle - even if the ultimate purpose of the meeting was business related.

Liin Terallo | Balun Dashiell | Open​

 

[Balun Dashiell]

Wearing: Formal Suit.
Holstered: K-16 Bryar Pistol & Lightsaber.
Associates: Liin Terallo | Whottoomuzz Chantin | Xoff Chantin

Balun Dashiell turned as Liin Terallo returned to his side, her expression composed yet quietly assessing after having surveyed the environment their host had chosen for this gathering of high society. While she had been preoccupied with that, Balun had kept a watchful eye on the arrivals—guests filtering in either alone, in pairs, or accompanied by an entourage. He had yet to decide what to make of the affair. This was his first time engaging in business with the Hutts, and if history was anything to go by, dealings with the Cartel had a way of attracting all manner of attention.

Of course, the Cartel wasn't the only entity capable of drawing unsavoury interest. The High-Society Collective was a gathering of the elite—individuals of wealth, power, and influence. That alone was enough to make them a target. Balun, while perhaps not the wealthiest among them, had the means to afford anything he desired, his financial security ensured by the wisdom and guidance of his father. That foundation had allowed him to carve his own path, eventually earning him a place within the Corporate Interests Guild.

"Yes, let's get this show underway. I'm feeling somewhat anxious about it all…" he admitted, his voice measured, yet layered with unspoken meaning. It wasn't a tangible fear, nothing he could quite put his finger on—just an unease lingering beneath the surface. Perhaps it was simply the nature of his role as Liin's protector, the ever-present awareness that her safety was his responsibility.

With that, they moved to greet their hosts, approaching with the same grace expected of them. Whottoomuzz Chantin the Hutt and his spouse, Xoff Chantin , welcomed them warmly, their reception bordering on that of old friends and honoured guests rather than mere business associates.

"Thank you, most kindly, Mr. Chantin. And to you as well, Mr. Doja," Balun replied smoothly, his tone carrying genuine gratitude. As he spoke, he dipped his head in a respectful bow—a formal gesture acknowledging their hospitality. He might not have extensive dealings with the Hutt Cartel, but he understood the importance of etiquette. There were moments when personal ethics and history had to be set aside in favour of political, societal, or business interests. Some skills had been imparted to him by the Jedi, but others—like navigating a room filled with powerful figures, reading between the lines, and knowing when to show deference—had been honed in the corporate world. And here, in this environment, those lessons served him best.

Strill Securities | Karlo Kyrr | Tertius C. Nargath | V3RM-X​

 

[Liin Terallo]

Perhaps everyone is a little anxious and unnerved. I know that I am. And yet it seems that Mister Dashiell is as well. Given his words, I can only suspect that he would rather have this event over with sooner, rather than later. Such a sentiment I can honestly admit that I am a little partial to as well. However I am the hostess and it is my responsibility to see this through to the end.

A meeting such as this is not something that I am unused to. For I have had a similar meeting not so long ago.

A small earpiece in my ear quietly reads out an incoming message. The Marquis is attending? I had not expected for him to travel so far south. Although Mon Gazza is not that far south from New Cov; it is still not quite in a sector of space that is on the radar of the major governments. I subtly bring a finger up to tap it on the earpiece which gives a response of acknowledgement to the Marquis' messenging systems.

I allow my gaze to drift over the attendees one more time, catching note of a droid sitting at a table with something on his shoulder. A pet, perhaps? It reminds me of Mister Dashiell having a pet of his own. Such a concept is quite unfamiliar with me. I do not believe that I have the right qualifications for a pet companion.

Very quickly my focus shifts to that of Mister Chantin and His Grace Whattoomuzz. I put on a polite smile to them both, bowing my head in kind. However I allow my gaze to linger on His Grace a little longer. Is it possible that he is shy? There seems to be a bit of timidness in his behavior. I find that to be quite perplexing, indeed.

"I am delighted that Your Grace has accepted my invitation. And the same with you, Mister Chantin. I do hope that this venue and this world is suitable for you. I took great care in it's choosing; knowing that it is similar to your tastes? Yet I did not need to venture too far from home. Is there anything that you require before we begin?"

If there is anything that helps to give me confidence in this; it is in knowing that Karlo Kyrr and his team are nearby keeping watch. My Father had built a contract with them to protect both myself and New Cov long before I had become the Director of NCBC; and as always the Terallo's always honor their contracts.

Tag: Balun Dashiell Xoff Chantin Whottoomuzz Chantin Tertius C. Nargath V3RM-X Strill Securities

 

[Xoff Chantin]

Outfit: Hutt Consort outfit

Spoiler: Loadout

• Beauty Blades
• ClearView Essence: Perfume
• Code Breaker Card
• Covert Compact
• Covert Kiss: Laser Lipstick
• Glow Guard
• Nite Night Nails: Polish
• Phantom Fresh
• Re-Pulse Ring

"I am delighted that Your Grace has accepted my invitation. And the same with you, Mister Chantin. I do hope that this venue and this world is suitable for you. I took great care in it's choosing; knowing that it is similar to your tastes? Yet I did not need to venture too far from home. Is there anything that you require before we begin?"

"By all means, let's begin." Xoff replied to Liin Terallo - with a bow to Whottoomuzz as signal, a protocol droid approach with a formal proposal - an encrypted and self-scrambling document should the the wrong eyes intrude. A proposal designed to never be read after signed, the utter lack of a paper trail a guarantee for the attendees with reputations to maintain.

As Xoff took a seat he began the pitch,
"We have a variety of solutions to offer. Of course, we have the basis for this têtê-a-têtê: the truce of sorts."

The first proposal, an offer for all invited attendees present, was an informal offer of security. Not traditional bodyguard and asset protection services, but as a protection from lesser criminals and blacklisting jobs that target these priority clients present - including interference by the Hutt Cartel should it escalate to that point.

In exchange, certain contracts - particularly involving waste disposal or other key publically bid opportunities would happen to favor Cartel-affiliates contractors.

For Tertius C. Nargath an additional proposal appeared on their respective datapads. A gift of sorts, in good faith if perhaps bad taste. As reparations for damage to N&Z corp on Mygeeto, the Chantin Kadijic offered a supply of test subjects for their labs - for both inpatient and outpatient tests.

A similar offer for Liin Terallo was presented, albeit with fewer details reflecting the lack of knowledge the cartel had of her biomolecules research on New Cov.

The unspoken, unwritten part of the offer was perhaps the riskiest part of the proposal: the Hutt Cartel's implicit offer was to volunteer unsellable slaves as lab rats, with sufficient amounts of separation from the corporations for plausible deniability if discovered by galactic authorities.

Liin Terallo | Tertius C. Nargath | OPEN​

 

[Tertius C. Nargath]

OBJECTIVE: CONNECT
TAGS: Liin Terallo | Balun Dashiell | Whottoomuzz Chantin | Strill Securities | Karlo Kyrr

Spoiler: outfit-entourage

Proper Business Suit
Valkan Guards
Amalia Visconti | Mira Rhory

It had taken quite a bit longer for the Marquis and his entourage to arrive at the venue, but when the clearances had been given, he didn't waste any time, having briefed his guards and his most trusted secretary and aide de camp Amalia on the nature of this venue and the subsequent rules they had to keep themselves at. With that out of the way though, the shuttle he traversed from the cruiser to the surface of Mon Gaza.

His arrival was probably not one to have gone unnoticed, considering it wouldn't be often that one could see someone dressed in such noble attire enter somewhere with such a professional looking guard. While the Strill Securities guards employed by Liin Terallo were absolutely no pushovers or poor beggars by any standard, there was always something impressive about seeing such uniformly armored and adorned guards like the Valkan Guards employed by the Marquisate of Valkan on Eriadu. It was in a sense also a show of the Marquis' understanding towards his Directors' choices not to rely on the N&Z security as their personal bodyguards or personal security staff, because he himself didn't exactly rely on them either.

He hadn't needed long to find one of his dearest and most trusted friends though, as Lady Terallo was not someone who one wouldn't notice, even in a whole crowd, despite the fact she always seemed to desire the opposite. With a smile, a respectful nod towards Liin was made, as he gently reached for her hand in order to grant her the respect and honor that came with her standing not only in the company, but in the very scene of high society itself. This was ofcourse followed by a somewhat amused and slightly aloof nod towards Balun Dashiell who recently seemed to be so close to Lady Terallo, whether it be as a guard or something else, considering the young man's ties to the Dashiell Family, tertius at the very least regarded the man with the same degree of respect as his kin.

However, as soon as the Eriaduan noble's eyes rested upon the fair presence of Whottoomuzz Chantin ' spouse , Tertius was somewhat flabbergasted in a positive sense. Before him stood an utterly gorgeous Zeltron male...or was this one even a male? The androgynous traits and the stunning appearance did for a moment force the Marquis to pause and empty his mind for a bit. Tilting his head ever so slightly to the side in silent observation, it did not take long for his Aide de Camp to whisper a few words in his ear which seemed to somewhat make him relax again and gain his bearings and allowed him to grant the Zeltron an elegant greeting of his own in the form of a courteous nod. " Xoff Chantin I pressume, my apologies for the late introduction... I am the chairman of the N&Z Umbrella Corporation, Marquis Tertius Nargath of Valkan."

With The centurion of his guards motioning the rest of the detachment to find themselves the active security of the venue in order to agree on their positions, the Marquis was rather surprised to see the missive on his datapad, frowning with a somewhat worrying expression when he read about the whole testsubject matter. With that same frown, the man turned towards Liin Terallo , shrugging his shoulders in utter confusion.

"I believe there has been some mistake in regards to the nature of our company... Mister Chantin... though I guess we should inquire as to what you truly mean with this clausule in regards to... 'testsubjects'."

 

[Balun Dashiell]

Wearing: Formal Suit.
Holstered: K-16 Bryar Pistol & Lightsaber.
Associates: Liin Terallo | Whottoomuzz Chantin | Xoff Chantin | Tertius C. Nargath

With the late arrival of Mr. Nargath, the final piece had fallen into place, and the true heart of the meeting could finally begin. Balun subtly stepped back as the key figures moved to take their seats, positioning himself with quiet precision—close enough to remain part of the dynamic, yet removed enough to maintain a vigilant watch over the entire room. His eyes scanned the gathering with practiced focus.

Tertius C. Nargath had arrived flanked by his own security detail, a precaution Balun understood and respected. Even so, his own guard would not waver. His first and only priority was Liin Terallo 's safety. Every movement, every shift in tone or posture from the others was filtered through that singular lens.

The contract presented by Xoff Chantin to both Liin and Nargath remained an enigma to Balun, its details unrevealed, but he could tell something was amiss. Nargath's reaction carried an edge—perhaps surprise, perhaps irritation—a sign that something hadn't landed quite right.

Balun's thumbs slid beneath his belt with quiet purpose, elbows angling out as he adopted a posture that appeared casual, even disengaged to the untrained eye. But behind the relaxed stance, his focus was razor-sharp. He read the room through body language and microexpressions, watching for the faintest tremor of tension, the first spark that might betray rising conflict.

Though his stance was unassuming, his positioning was calculated—hands resting just inches from the weapons at his hips: a holstered pistol on one side, and the familiar weight of his lightsaber on the other. He wasn't eager to draw either. If he had his way, they would remain untouched. But in the company of the Hutt Cartel, hope alone wasn't a strategy. Preparedness was.

Strill Securities | Karlo Kyrr | V3RM-X​

 

[Liin Terallo]

As always, the Marquis makes for quite an entrance. His Valkan guards stood out quite well, their uniforms a stark contrast to the gambling venue on a dusty world that they currently stood within. I give him a kind smile and bow of my head as he approached, and dutifully place my hand in his own as he greets me. I look past him and note that it seems that there does not appear to be any others from GHS attending. Perhaps that could be in part due to members of the Hutt Cartel being present. Or perhaps they were otherwise occupied. Either way I plan on having the best arrangement made to protect the GHS from the Hutt Cartel and their affiliates.

I take the offered datapad that Mister Chantin offers and read through it carefully. The first two sections were pretty straight forward and was exactly what I was looking for. However my brows furrow in concern at the last paragraph. It was a bonus offer of test subjects? My guess would be humanoid. And just who those subjects that he has in mind would be, I can surely hazard a guess.

The Marquis seems to have gotten a similar offer, for he too gave me a perplexed look that matched my own, followed by his own inquiry to Mister Chantin. Feeling compelled, I add in my own thoughts. "I say this with the utmost respect, but I am not in the market for test subjects, Your Grace. Nor are we of the culture to barter people as though they are a commodity."

If his Grace was looking to sweeten the deal, then he would need to come up with an alternative. Although just what that alternative would be, I am uncertain. Sweetening the deal was not exactly necessary. But it is a kind gesture on his part.

I try not to think of what Mister Dashiel and anyone else in earshot is thinking about what is being said today.

Tags: Xoff Chantin Whottoomuzz Chantin Tertius C. Nargath Balun Dashiell V3RM-X Karlo Kyrr Strill Securities

 

[Whottoomuzz Chantin]

When Xoff turned to Whottoomuzz for guidance, the Hutt replied with a wave of his hand, "If day no wan da slimo, no gee day da slimo! No need do mugga pan."

As ever, Xoff translated Whottoomuzz's words more tactfully,

"The Hutt assures you the gift is entirely optional, and no offense is taken at the rejection."

In truth, this was not far from what he had expected; a play on different cultural values gave the impression that the Hutt wanted to be generous but with the distasteful offer that they courteously declined, the charitable impression is given without any actual resource expenditure. It was not a point the Hutt wished to press - it served its social purpose and certainly made the rest of the proposals more appealing by comparison.

All in all, it was a lean agreement, the other parties' trimming the fat from the deal for him.

With a nod, the proposals were signed from the Hutt's hand, amended to remove the bonus test subjects. If these well-to-do humanoids decided later that they did want more accomodations from the Cartel, a change order could be made - with more opportunities. N&Z had a fine catalogue of spacefaring vessels that could be of use, should a new deal be struck in the future.

Until then, under the table favorable contract bidding with waste management and other sectors in exchange for underworld diversion and protection was quite satisfactory for the Hutt.

Liin Terallo | Balun Dashiell | Tertius C. Nargath​