Private A Story of Kings and Peasants

[Adron Malvern]

ADRON MALVERN​

Tags: @Hester Shedo ​

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"Scarrif Control this is Confederate Transport, Zenith, en route to New Lessu with an Alpha Priority passenger. Request low altitude air support and priority landing, over." The speaker in Adron's room was directly tied into the Pilot's comm system. ​

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Background noise that the Exarch Adron Malvern had grown accustomed to listening to. It also gave him notice of any incidents that may occur on his various trips. While some of his pilots were more lax than others all were extremely professional and generally competent. Still, he trusted his own ears more than any others. Within the room, the Exarch was adjusting the tie he'd chosen to go with his ebony and champagne suit. He stood in the mirror, amethyst eyes gazing back at the firmly ironed lapels and wrinkless suit. Not a smudge to be found, not a hair out of place, as always. Even the deep purple eyes he had seemed to shift to better fit the person he presented to the galaxy. Like a parting fog the amethyst bled away to be replaced by a cool ocean blue. Beautiful, immaculate, and completely beyond reproach. He preferred his days to move with others gaining as little knowledge from him as possible. If they did gain something from him? Well then they earned it. ​

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His lightly tanned hands ran down the fine flaps of the silk suit before he took a pair of eyeglasses from the nightstand. ​

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Glasses. A sign of imperfection which he loathed. Yet, they always succeeding in stirring something from his beloved, Alessandra Creed so they had some ulterior uses. "The people enjoy the illusion that their leaders are of the same cloth as they are." He spoke in a low tone, allowing every paced moment of his life to be either a lesson or a review to the equation of his power. These glasses were good for that as well. A sign to those below him that made them believe he was like them. A windless notion that cost him little in place of much. His hand came down to shut the box he kept his glasses in. He plucked a small purple pin from the dresser, fastening it to his lapel before smiling at what he saw in the mirror. Adron Malvern had always been a man who was pleased with what he saw in the mirror, regardless of which shade of himself was showing. ​

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He made his way out of the room without a second thought. In the hall of the transport ship was a small entourage of individuals. A droid stood before him as he stepped into the hall, this immediately caused him a large amount of agitation. However the droid did hold a piping hot cup of caffe and his updated datapad, so it's presence came with some small boon. The Exarch plucked the items from the droid before looking to the two members of his own Royal Guard who flanked either side of his door. He preferred them to the droids the Confederacy authorized for his protection details and he trusted them far more than the Knight's Obsidian who stood as the alternative. It was their duty to lay down their lives for his, he had made it so. ​

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"Capitaine, où est mon assistant?" The Exarch spoke in the fluid wine tone of High Illyrian. The Captain of the Guard wore the standard armor of the Royal Guard, adorned with the royal sash that was in a beautiful shade of amethyst with golden designs flowing over the fabric. ​

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"Pas encore revenue de sa mission, Votre Majesté." The Captain responded, causing Adron to nod silently before taking a measured sip of his caffe. "Very well." Adron said, switching back to basic as he turned down the hall. There were still four of The Confederacy's most elite bodyguard unit stationed in the hall. The Magnaguard stood stoically as their Exarch passed them, not speaking nor moving in response to his presence. One would think they were shut off, if not for their illuminated optics. They were more of a requirement of his station than anything else, yet he tolerated them. He took another sip of his caffe as he felt the subtle shift of the transport ship breaching the planet's atmosphere. Passing by a window he could see a pair of Vulture droids flying in close proximity to the transport. ​

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Droids, and more droids, and more droids, and more droids. ​

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It is a wonder he found a home in The Confederacy, a place that prioritizes droids over organics when he himself finds droids painfully inefficient. ​

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The walk from his room to the loading ramp was more than enough time for Adron to finish his caffe. His transport had settled down on a landing pad in New Lessu. He expected to be met by the Viceroy of Scariff, Hester Shedo . A flawless woman of immeasurable beauty. ​

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"Beautiful women are the most dangerous." His hand came up to his chest and he clasped two fingers around his wedding band, chuckling softly at the irony of his words. "Aren't they, my dear?" He smiled a second more before handing his cup off to the servant droid who had been following closely by to receive the cup. With the two armored knights of his guard behind him and four Magnaguard trailing behind them, he stepped to the loading ramp, watching as the door rose at his presence. ​

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Hester Shedo. I will ascertain what kind of woman you are. Then I will decide your best use to The Confederacy. My Confederacy. He mused, before descending the ramp. He relished the sunlight that flooded over his skin, feeling it's embrace yet still uncaring for the warm climate of the planet.​

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How long had it been since Adron had been on this world? He still remembered the feel of his Dress White's as he came to perform an Imperial inspection on the world. A pitless Governor had lost his life that day, his head set to roll by Adron's own saber. ​

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"Nostalgic." He remarked, before continuing the descent to the landing pad. ​

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[Hester Shedo]

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Tags: Adron Malvern​

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Hester lay for a little longer in the bath. She enjoyed the warmth of the water on her fair skin, her hair gathered above her, a little taught in the hands of the attendant who helped maintain its cleanliness. The tropic nature of Scarif meant that the salt water and disproportionate amount of sunlight made for difficult conditions. The attendant guided the violet crème through her sodden hair, the droplets clinging to each follicle like a hard paste. She purred like a feline as the water heated gently, a rogue sponge floating by her side. She laughed to herself, grabbing it and wringing out the foam. She breathed deeply, sweet aromas filling her nose. She opened her eyes, the sterile tiles above her reflecting the movement of the light as it danced upon the water.

She was starting to think poetically. Time to get out.

She submerged herself to the chagrin of the attendant, her hair fully wet again as it rinsed the shampoo from it. She had gotten up early that day as she had a special guest visiting. Exarch Adron Malvern.

He knew Scarif, well-a version of Scarif at least. It was not every day she entertained a King, an Exarch and a Sith Lord in one day, let alone in the same form. She had made sure that her tailors had created something special for the occasion.
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She walked into the dressing room, several attendants waiting to assist the Viceroy. On most days, when a simple working garb was appropriate, she didn’t need much help. But on State occasions, it was usually customary for assistants and seamstresses to help fit the garb she might be wearing, often a design she wasn’t familiar with. She liked to dress, when appropriate, as a form of homage to the visiting delegation. When the Naboo came, she would dress appropriately. If Ra’Katha ever visited, she’d be sure to find something culturally appropriate.

Perhaps a refuse-sack might suffice.

She silenced her inner snob and chided herself, restoring focus once again. This dress was an homage to the High Illyrian fashion that she might have seen. She had cultural attaches that would advise her on such things and made sure she wasn’t going to offend; a faux pas at this level was tantamount to a declaration of war in some instances. She was assured that this was known as Azurine Crimson. She thought it looked pretty like Confederate Red. Or any red for that matter.

She huffed as she was corseted in, her indignation registering on her face. She stared in the mirror as she was practically sewn into it. The delicate lacing hugged her torso, elements of trim and frill cradling her shoulder. The main body of the gown was an almost sheer black, a corset of flower-décor running up the right side of her trunk. The right arm had an elaborate black web, laced decoration hanging down. The other sleeve was left somewhat nude. Some of her advisors might say she was being provocative. She had smiled coyly. A smile that said both “I don’t know what you’re talking about” and “I darn well hope so” simultaneously.

Her hair had been coiled up in an elaborate bun, the piece clasping it tight encrusted with natural stones found in the mineral rich sands of Scarif. The flower patterning came together to form a choker and drew the eyes to her tiled head, batted eyes, and girlish smile.

She was almost dangerous.

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She walked, flanked by a large detail of the newly formed Scarif PDF. The fly-by of new-commissioned fighter-craft would-be right-on time. She had been sure to make all the necessary provisions for the Exarch. This was supposed to be a low-key affair but nothing about Adron was low-key. He deserved impressing. She hoped she’d suffice.

As the Exarch’s ship came into view, she almost felt nervous. The sweet sensation associated with excitement and anxiety bubbled away in her daintily dressed frame. What had the Naboo called them?

Butterflies

What a stupid name.

She came to a halt as the large vessel made its impressive landing, docking neatly in the exact spot it needed to be. The Exarch was nothing if not prompt. The landing sequence ended, the door opened, the Exarch dressed in a striking suit of Champagne and Ebony. He was as handsome as ever. She could see him squint a little as the sun stood promptly behind Hester, creating a dazzling silhouette, a kin to one of the Sun Goddesses found on one of the many planets in the galaxy.

Almost as if she had planned such a sight.

She caught the eye of Adron and she walked forward, curtsying to both King and Exarch. She offered her hand to him.

“Bienvenue. C'est mon honneur de vous rencontrer, Majestie.”

She looked a little clumsily, her eyes darting to the floor then up again, hoping he would catch the piercing centre of them.

“Ce ñ'est pas ma langue maternelle - veuillez me pardonner.”

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[Adron Malvern]

ADRON MALVERN​

Tags: Hester Shedo ​

Hester Shedo.

As Adron descended the loading ramp his eyes were immediately fastened on the vision of a woman who stood before him. With the evening sun behind Hester, Adron was reminded of the Diathim, a beautiful race of angelic beings who were renowned in the Outer Rim. This flawless woman, so poised, so composed, would feel something rush over her in an even wave. It was the Dark Side of the Force, a cold chill that crawled into every part of Hester's being seeking to find any taste of weakness for it to feast upon. This occurred as Adron took hold of the woman's hand only furthering the pestilence that came with his presence.

That was when Adron found himself rather impressed. High Illyrian was no common tongue and no native of the planet expected to hear it outside of their homeworld.

My my. She does stand to impress. The Exarch mused with a knowing smile coming to his lips as he bowed his head. He brought his brow to the Viceroy's fingers in a deep bow. It was the tradition when two Illyrian's of the higher class greeted each other. While she was certainly not lllyrian she had earned the greeting.

Perhaps her Illyrian was not as natural or comfortable as a native would be, but it was executed with nearly no faults. This was not an easy thing to perform.

"Il y a des rumeurs à votre sujet. Ils parlent d'une certaine beauté, prévenance et élégance, je vois maintenant qu'aucun d'eux ne vous rend justice." His words were silk and silver woven together, displaying his class and power in a single sentence. Once he righted himself, he looked to the woman and offered her what could best be interpreted as a warm smile, although there was something more behind it, something that was for him to know and her to vie for.

"Tell me. Where did you learn to speak in the tongue of High Illyrian? As the world borders the Outer Rim and the throws of Wild Space it is exceedingly uncommon." He asked with a genuine curiosity. Not purely because of a simple curiosity, rather he was interested in knowing where any other Illyrians may lay. The people of his world had practiced isolationism for the past hundred years, those who no longer resided on the world generally did so for a certain reason or another. Still, there would be plenty of time for the pleasantries of small talk.

"Perhaps we may share a drink? I've arranged for a sample of my planet's most famous wines to be brought to you. A gift for the hospitality you have shown me now." The King brought a hand up, snapping his fingers together as a signal to his Guard. One of the Guards tapped a button on their gauntlet, causing the Magnaguard behind them to part their path, creating a gap. That was when a droid came out of the ship, carrying a beautifully crafted wine case, formed from the precious metal songsteel.

Then another descended...and another...and another. Until there were twenty of the servant droids standing, each holding a case of wine with no less than twelve bottles per case. Two hundred and forty bottles of Illyria's finest wine.

"I promise you. Illyria crafts only the best."
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[Hester Shedo]

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Tags: Adron Malvern​

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It was like the sensation one felt when a ship left hyperspace a little uneasily. It was like the sensation when one hadn’t anticipated the low temperature upon leaving a speeder. It was like eating iced cream and finding it filled with shards of glass. To say she was shocked was quite the understatement.

He spoke cool words that caressed her skin. This was the Force again. She had felt it when she stood with Vicelord Darth Metus . She had near-sold her own soul that day when she had looked upon his face and felt his presence for herself. She hated herself for it but she was drawn to their power. This was a different sensation though. This felt…intoxicating.

She faltered a little, trying to catch her breath. She heaved in gown, it suddenly feeling overwhelming heavy. He had said something about beauty and elegance and rumours. Oh, there would always be rumours about her. Some said she was a witch. Some say she was a murderer. Others say she was a little carefree with the company she kept in her private quarters. All true. All lies. None could be proven. All to be believed.

She watched as the droids appeared, one by one, each carrying their own beautiful case of wine. She was touched, truly. Such a gift was quite extravagant. She was always mindful about accepting gifts from other politicians- you never know if you were being bought without your prior knowledge. But the Exarch need not buy her favour. She felt she would give it willingly.

“Most Excellent Exarch. I am beyond touched by this display of gratitude. Such an outpouring of generosity from your people to mine cannot be ignored.”

At that moment, a wing of forty-five fighters flew overheard, streaming the colours of Illyria and the royal house of Malvern in their wake across the sky. Hester turned to look the Exarch, un-phased by the display she had meticulously organised to arrive just on time.

“Just a little treat before dinner.” She giggled to herself, encouraging the Exarch to follow her towards the rear entrance of the Administration. The central building was vast and almost Imperial in its grandeur. It was a symbol of the new regime; the Exarch would well-remember the old.

As they walked, she responded to the initial line of questioning. She inadvertently took his arm.

“My first tutor had been an Illyrian. I wasn’t particularly good at the language.” She kicked her dress forward, her head leaning slightly into him in an almost casual manner.

She half-whispered, her face mere inches from his “What I said is about all I can remember”. She laughed easily, her voice reaching a crescendo. Had it been all that long ago? She did not want to let on that she crammed in a quick conversational recap with Saraya Arenais prior to this meeting. She had always been better than Hester at all sorts of things.

They walked into the large atrium, various staircases running in all directions. This part of the reception wing was palatial. She had intended for it to be thus. She did not want dignitaries thinking it was some backwards-beach planet without the ability to scrub up. Scarif had never had a royalty, so to speak, so Hester had enjoyed curating this look of opulence. She motioned through a large double doorway, nodding politely at various waiting figures who formed the rest of the party.

Tonight, they would be dispensing with the ‘State’ element of the visit. Normally, a figure such as King Adron would warrant a lavish dinner with various ambassadors, cultural representatives, and lobbyists, vying for access to either. However, Hester had requested the private rooms used for such occasions. They were still lavished with rich furnishings, opulence in abundance to impress upon the guest the wealth of Scarif.

She led him into a large room, a small but delicate picture meeting her eyes. A table with two chairs, settings placed either end. The food would be brought when ready but in the meantime there stood a bottle of wine, one that from the new cellar-full that had been gifted moments before. She proffered a glass and watched as the attendant poured the wine.

“I hope you have an appetite, Most Excellent Exarch. I’ve been starving myself all day for this.”

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[Adron Malvern]

VICEROY​

Tags: Hester Shedo ​

He could feel it. The sensation that dripped from the Viceroy in cool droplets. Her emotions in an uproar from a kind greeting. It did nothing but boost the Exarch's ego, which was not needed yet always enjoyed. When finally she spoke he listened to the cool words that fell from her lips in tempting, easy sentences. She was fluid, natural, so much so that Adron could believe the woman was as authentic as she appeared. However years working in the government sector had taught him that what an individual presents is the most polished version of themselves that could be crafted.

Hester had crafted herself very well.

His gaze did not even falter when he heard the roar of the starfighters flying above. Instead his gem blue eyes remained fastened on the woman for a moment longer before finally, by his own volition, he turned to gaze up at the skies. Seeing the ebony and black colors of House Malvern and Illyria was a pleasant surprise. His lips remained fastened in that same smile before he turned to Hester, inclining his head in silent appreciation for the gesture she had shown him.

They fell in step with one another, moving into the halls before them Adron guided her as was tradition, with her arm locked around his. When she revealed that her first tutor had been an Illyrian Adron made an expression of understanding.

"An outsider would believe you to be an Illyrian." He complimented her.

Her song-like laugh was enough to keep the smile on his face. Although his mind was concerned with the matters that had brought him to this world. Had he intentions of merely exchanging pleasantries such a thing could be done at a later time. Hester had done exceptionally well in her reception of the man, showing she was capable of fully carrying herself through the world of the Viceroyalty. It was a game of Chess within a house of cards and one could never be too careful or too precise in the execution of such things.

They made their way into the dining area. Adron could not compare it to the Grand Halls of Illyria, however they were a far sight better than the last time he had feasted on Scarif.

Finally someone with taste. He mused, his eyes dancing about the room a bit. They found themselves in a room fit for the occasion. When Hester offered a glass of wine the Exarch nodded thankfully. "I believe I will enjoy a taste, yes. My thanks." He offered her, before making his way over to Hester's seat. Chivalry was alive and well in Illyria and no man, peasant or king, discarded chivalry. "Allow me." He held her seat out for her allowing her to take the seat before guiding her to the table. She spoke to how she'd starved herself the day and Adron believed he saw a moment to play on the warm feelings he'd been filling the woman with since his arrival. He passed by her, his blue eyes meeting her own with a low tone, words sounding like fine liquor as they were poured from his lips. "I'm of ravenous appetite." He assured her.

A bit of a lie. He'd had lunch only two hours ago. As the attendant saw to his glass of wine he took hold of it and raised it a few inches from his lips. "Let us toast to The Confederacy and that it may prosper long after our dust settles." He raised the wine in a toast before sipping at the drink, finding it's taste soothing.

"Wonderful." He said, setting the glass down on the table, his eyes turning to Hester with a curious gaze. "Now, the visit may truly begin."

"Tell me, Viceroy Shedo. Did you murder your husband as the rumors suggest?" A tone of silk was replaced with an inquisitively playful tone. As Adron spoke the words it seemed as if his demeanor had not overly shifted, as if this question was nothing more than another part of pleasantries. It was his eyes, bright and vibrantly placed upon the woman that would give paused. They were the kind of eyes that a person could get lost within if they had the fancy.
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[Hester Shedo]

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Tags: Adron Malvern​

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A rogue meteor crashing into the side of the building would have been more subtle than the playful tone the Exarch had employed to ask such an indelicate question. Hester had paused for the briefest of moments, a micro expression an expert like Malvern would have spotted as easily as said meteor. She sipped the wine, a warmth of taste causing her cheeks to tingle. She swallowed politely and placed the glass on the table. She answered him in a sweet, lilting tone. Ever the dutiful widow.

“Rumours are ugly little things, Exarch. Like bastard children, they wander aimlessly through life without a home to call their own until they come to roost at your feet, demanding attention.”

The dress felt very tight.

“My late husband was many things. A philanthropist. A businessman. A fine politician. He sought money as if it were a religious zeal that guided him. He promised reform and change and, in the wake of the former Imperial governance, would likely have tried to bring about all manner of progressive measures before the people.”

She stared into those eyes. Bright and vibrant placed, she felt she could get lost in them.

“He was also a bloated thug, a blight on polite society and would have been a disaster for the system. He was ill-suited to Planetary Administration, let alone the Viceroyship. He embezzled, he gambled, he sought the company of…others. He was stingy and miserly and loathed correction. He would have carved up Scarif and sold it to the highest bidder as quickly as he could. He would have danced with the Hutts and paid court to Crime Lords and Rebels and dissidents."

"Would that I could have ringed the life out of his fat, grotesque neck with my own two hands and dumped him in the sea myself. I had planned to. Many times. I thought about poisoning him. Watching him choke to death on his own bile as the acids ate away at his own stomach lining.”

She sipped once again, the acidity in the flora of the grape activating all sorts of sensory delights. She looked down at the plate serving set up in preparation before Malvern. The irony wasn't lost on her.

“Did I take the life of my poor, dead, fat, bloated, slug of a controlling husband? I wish I could say so. But I was robbed of the justice. The justice to take payment for all the indignities and humiliations I suffered at his hand.”

She smiled, a little forlornly.

“He gave me this, though.”

She proffered a glass in toast to her guest and then the room she sat in. His own ascendancy to the position of Viceroy would have been assured, had he and his...guest... not careened full force into a hidden sand dune on the beach resorts far from the Capital.

Nobody survived an impact like that. Nobody did.

There was no point hiding anything from Malvern. He could smell a lie. He could taste it better than the very vintage he has presented by the caseload that very same hour.

“Honest-enough an answer for you?”

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[Adron Malvern]

EXARCH​

Tags: @Hester Shedo ​

Now this was a sweet satisfying moment. His eyes were locked on the woman as she paused to answer his question. No amount of fine words or tasteful wine could pull the woman from the ropes that he'd woven around her now. So he watched with an expression that showed he was pleased with her response to his question. Then Hester began to speak and as she did the Exarch drew on the Dark Side of the Force. He sipped from his wine and he also took steady sips from Hester's anger that spilled from her beautifully.

To hear of the depraved man who had been Hester's husband caused Adron some bit of relief. He believed her words. No, rather he had been shown nothing to counter them. He recalled her fire in the Viceroyalty Chambers and he saw that this matched it flawlessly. She was a passionate one indeed and that was something Adron found in short supply in the halls of even the most esteemed Viceroys.

When finally Hester fell silent, remarking on her own words the Exarch could not help but nod at her. "You certainly have a way with words." He admitted to her, his tone just the same as it had been. Well, he supposed he could forestall any Inquisition to take place on the Viceroy of Scarif, she was an acceptable woman for the position of Viceroy.

No, she was impressive. A word she would never hear spoken from the Exarch's mouth but the truth remained just that. After she had gone to silence in place of the beautifully spun monologue that had been utilized in place of the word 'no' Adron took his glass back into his hand to take another sip of the wine, exploring the depth it had gained from some time allowed to breathe.

"I recall a similar fire from you. In the Viceroyalty chambers, you were opposing Viceroy Rommer quite expertly." He said, looking to the woman with an appraising gaze once again. "I suppose that may have been the exchange that brought me to your door and laid the foundation for curiosity. I looked upon this brazen woman with curiosity and wondered just how she would measure up to my expectations. So far she has done well. However, there are more things I would know of Viceroy Shedo."

"For example. What are your designs for Scarif? Do you wish to see prosperity grace your waters? Or another queston could ne does your interest end with Scarif? Or do you dream of broader horizons?"
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[Hester Shedo]

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Tags: Adron Malvern​

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She calmed herself. She was not sure if it was the presence of the Sith that brought it so fervently out of her or the fact that she didn’t much get to answer questions quite so honestly. If she had said what he had to the media, they would have her gutted and strung out. Admitting you hated your recently deceased husband was tantamount to an admittance of guilt in the eyes of certain outlets. Either way, her tirade has served its purpose. She thought being overtly honest might serve her better than if she had tried to be deceitful.

Malvern spoke of her recent appearances in the Viceroyalty. She was becoming well-respected as an impassioned orator. Some accused her of being one to throw fits of emotion or saccharine nationalist pride. Some say she evoked jingoistic rhetoric or even worse…that she was dangerous.

She did not mind her naysayers. If they all they could do was critique was how she said what she said it was because they likely could not critique what she had said.

What had one of them said it was like to a news outlet? A tantrum? She smiled inwardly. What had her teacher said?

‘Far easier to dismiss the delivery when the substance of the message is difficult to comprehend.’

Or something like that.

He asked of Scarif. Her project. Her home.

“Scarif is enjoying the greatest prosperity since it joined the Confederacy. My predecessors were content to let it sit idly by as a junior partner to our neighbouring systems. This corner of the CIS enjoys great worlds. Kamino, Ukio. Vylmira.”

She paused a little over the last one. The destruction wrought across its surface and peoples had been a point of severe concern to the members of the Abrion Pact. They were doing their best to rebuild.

“But Scarif has uncharted and unspent riches. Ample land, building materials, space for development. Only two cities stand on its entire surface. The Isle and my new city. New Lessu. Where you sit right now was grassy yet arid plains only some half year ago. Now I court investors, tech giants, armament designers and military capitalists, all vying for untapped access to what we have to offer. Our scope is limitless, our potential the same.”

She watched as the food was brought in. It was fish served with locally developed vegetables and a spicy roux. She nodded in gratitude, adding a little salt to the fish. She poured the liquified butter atop the vegetables, as was customary with this serving style.

“My loyalty is to the Confederacy. Scarif will always be my home and I serve it best always. Whether that is as Viceroy or indeed anywhere else. My ambitions might take me elsewhere if the right opportunity arose.”

She brought a piece of steamed green vegetable to her mouth with her fingers.

“I do love to serve.”

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[Adron Malvern]

VICEROY​

Tags: Hester Shedo ​

When someone of relevance spoke, Adron listened. He found that was the best way to learn of those around them. Most people enjoyed talking about themselves and when they did speak of their own accomplishments and goals it was usually from a more genuine perspective than could be found in other conversation. So he listened as Hester spoke of Scarif and the sector of the galaxy that it rested in. It truly was a beautiful world and held an abundance of resources, resources best put to use for the greater Confederacy.

When the woman spoke of the potential of Scarif, the Exarch was keen to agree. "Very true. However all potential must be guided by a vision or else that potential becomes inconsequential. Wasted." The last words was spoken with a notable shift in his tone, a subtle shift that he allowed to show his utter disdain for wasted talent and resources. The attendant brought out their meals and Adron looked over it with a quick gaze. The fish was cooked perfectly and the smells were perfectly alluring without being overbearing. The Exarch took his utensils in hand, preparing his food as he continued to speak.

"There is money left in the quarterly budget." He seemed to shift the topic once again, turning away from the specifics of Viceroy Hester and directing the flow of the conversation elsewhere. "A substantial amount of credits that are being reserved for Confederate worlds who are keen on taking up a Government task." He told the woman, taking a fine bite of the fish. The flavor was warming, causing him to nod his head approvingly. "Very good...fine heat." He commented, purposely shifting the topic for a moment so that he may build the Viceroy's anticipation a bit. Such topics could not be rushed, after all.

"I'm looking for a Viceroy with a vision. Someone capable of fulfilling a task for the betterment of The Confederacy." He told her. "As we are, we take in hundreds of thousands of refugees and new citizens every year. However we receive millions of applications. We simply do not have the location to in-process these individuals at a faster rate."

"That is why I have a significant amount of credits that can be granted to a Viceroy who would allot land to the Confederate Government to be used for this end. Whether it be a station in the system or a building on the planet. The Viceroy to accomplish this would be seen as quite the patriot and also gain the favor of the Presidium." He continued, before taking another bite from the fish, chasing it with a sip of the wine.

"Can you think of anyone who may be interested in such a project?" He asked.
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[Hester Shedo]

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Tags: Adron Malvern​

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She did not usually watch somebody eat. She found it a strange voyeurism that she wasn’t partial to. However, everything Adron did carried a certain gravitas that left her both bemused and fascinated in equal measure.

He has good teeth.

She almost choked when he started speaking of the budget. She didn’t but she felt she might have, had she not already been painfully aware of her every movement whilst in his presence.

He liked the fish. Good. It was caught yesterday, cured, and prepared in a salt brine for six hours, just like the locals did. Just because it was prepared in a fancy kitchen doesn’t mean it forwent the classic Scarifan treatment.

He wanted land. The Confederacy wanted land. Or space. She had both to abundance. He asked her indirectly.

“I won’t be coy and pretend I wouldn’t be tripping over myself to bid for the project. Yes. I want it. Very much.”

She laughed again, a little broth making a bid to escape from her lips. She grabbed her napkin quickly and dabbed swiftly, her eyes lighting and welling a little from the sheer force of her choking. She wasn’t afraid to embarrass herself in front of him. She’d already admitted to near-plotting murder; what was a little slip of manners?

She placed her hands either side of the plate, thinking for a moment.

“Scarif has the space. The provisions. The people. The determination. The need. New Lessu, this fine city, already houses near five million brand new citizens, made up from economic migrants from across the sector and the wider CIS. A processing centre for asylum seekers and migrants wanting a new life in our fine nation would be ideal here. We are at the juncture of two hyperlanes. We have a shield gate. The people here are used to civic projects and growth and the unrest associated with it.”

She thought again, picking up a fork and toying with the thick cut chip that was left.

“A station. Big enough to house the initial entrance. Once processed and approved, we’d bring them to the surface or send them elsewhere within the sector. We need people. Vylmira needs people. Some of the sector has seen untold ravages.” She paused. She rolled her eyes, chiding her foolishness.

“I’m sorry. I’m telling you as if you weren’t at the centre of all things.”

She felt silly now. All that playing cool and she’d just tried to explain current affairs to one of the most prominent people in the Confederate Government. Damned idiot she felt. She was getting anxious. This wasn’t supposed to happen. It was just that somebody was recognising her work for what it was; progressive and ambitious and, above all things; successful.

“Scarif would make it work. We have the space to grow and expand operations. We have the connections. I have the civil support to undertake these works and the right contractors. Our planetary assembly would approve this without hesitation.”

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[Adron Malvern]

DEAL​

Tags: Hester Shedo ​

As the moments went on the Viceroy of Scarif revealed more and more of herself to the Exarch. Perfect. He watched her interest rise and found that she was exactly what he hoped she would be, opportunistic. Of course, there would be some small paperwork to settle when he returned to his office. No, that was an understatement. Technically speaking this project should not be undertaken until the next quarter, even if the funds were allotted from the one they were in now. Still, Adron was not the kind of man to await such a thing. No, he would see the production begins immediately. Alessandra Creed would release the funds to him. Though he knew it would cost him a foot massage and a vacation somewhere warm. Worth it, if he could secure this Viceroy under his wing.

The seeds were planted, meaning that his plans may continue on to their next phase in due time.

Patience. He reminded himself.

Hester began to speak on the matters of her planet. He'd reviewed it all already. Scarif was one of several worlds that would be perfect for this project. He'd done his research far in advance. After all if the Viceroy could not overlook her own territories well then she would be of no use to the Exarch. However, Hester was not one such Viceroy. Loyal, competent, and efficient she had seen to Scarif's advancement well. Now it was time for his hand to play in tandem with hers to birth something more.

The thought of progress in another sector actually made him smile once again. When the woman began to grow anxious Adron couldn't help but let out the softest of chuckles. Taking the final bite of his meal, he let the fork rest back on the plate with the slightest sound echoing out from it. As the man stood, the chair he'd sat in steadily pulled back from him with the unseen guidance of the Force. He took hold of his glass, walking around the table and taking the bottle of wine in hand. He took Hester's own glass into his hand, pouring the wine in while his eyes gazed down at her. Like a hawk scoping prey he watched her until his gaze lingered down to the glasses. He set the bottle down before reaching out.

His hand took hers, soft and warm his grasp was momentary as he pressed the spine of the glass into her slender fingers. He also poured more of the wine into his own glass, until both were perfectly topped off. With that he allowed his glass to softly touch hers as he spoke one single word. For Hester, it may as well have been the greatest poem.

"Done."

He drank down a nice amount of the wine, truly savoring the flavour before stepping back from the woman and making his way back to his chair. "I will see to everything on my end. Give me a month...no, let's make it two. We will have the contracts drawn up immediately. Of course I will inspect every detail of this project. I expect nothing less than perfection. Do not disappoint me, my dear." He said thoughtfully, before resting a hand on the back of the seat he'd been in.
​

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[Hester Shedo]

OBJECTIVE​

Tags: Adron Malvern​

​

She couldn't believe what was happening. Here she was, ensnared by the Exarch himself. He was certainly delightful company and his promise of patronage was ecstasy to her ears. She had no intention of letting him down.

Hester was beyond happy. She was serenely pleased. She had been entrusted with a task for the Confederacy, one that would bring great change to many, none more so than she herself. With great responsibility came great opportunity to prove her merit and prove her loyalty to the nation. She had been absolutely bewitched by Adron and, to be honest, she wasn't entirely sure she hadn't. She took his word that business would begin promptly. She already thought of several large companies that would vie for the contract. She would have to see which might impress her the most. With dinner almost finished, she sipped a little more wine and indicated to the attendant that she was finished. A gentle nod asked Adron if he had finished his own meal.

It was Hester's turn to be bold.

"You have such a knack for gauging us lowly Viceroys. You seemed to have pin me down quite easily." She bit her lip a little, unconsciously perhaps.

"Tell me then. Let's play roll call. What do you think about...Bastille Rommer? He's a loyal little Confederate, isn't he? Though, I think he's terrifically handsome." She recalled the first time they had met. He'd looked exceptional. Their recent exchanges on the Floor of the Viceroyalty had been less than...cordial.

She shook out her shoulders a little, finally able to breath somewhat easier. She wasn't sure if Adron was squeezing her for information or simply using his Force talents but she did feel a little easier. Perhaps it wasn't the only force at work.

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[Adron Malvern]

BASTILLE​

Tags: Hester Shedo ​

With the meal at its end there was yet some pleasantries they could enjoy. He listened to the woman speak of how he'd pinned the woman. It was very true. He took pride in his ability to sense the hopes and dreams of others and turn them into a tool he could use to progress his own designs. Hester had been no different, in fact there seemed to be a part of the woman that completely enjoyed the way he made use of her. It was people like that who would see the Exarch's dream transform into a reality. The attendant approached him with an expectant expression. He waved a hand to dismiss the man after showing he was finished with his dinner.

With the plate taken from before him Adron took hold of the glass, taking a sip from the wine as he listened to Hester's question. He was considerate before answering her question, although he still spoke after a very brief pause. He set the glass down on the table before letting out a soft chuckle at the Viceroy's words.

"Viceroy Bastille Rommer." His words had a correcting tone within it.

"I've met his kind before. Large dreams, a broad and exacting vision in how he wished things to progress. However his education on how the greater galaxy works is limited, his temper allows his words to guide him rather than the other way around, and he has a complete disregard for the art of tact." In reality Adron did not particularly hate or even dislike Bastille. In the courts of the Galactic Empire he would likely have had the man assassinated just so he would not have to hear his insufferable voice, but that was a different time, a different life.

A different Adron.

"He is of use to The Confederacy because he is like us. He wishes to see progression. He merely has a horrible idea in how to execute the vision." He told the woman with an even tone.

"I believe it is men like Viceroy Rommer that will decide the future of the Confederacy. However it is up to the more educated individuals to ensure that they make the right decision."

Adron knew of Hester's views on Bastille or at least he knew the woman was not fond of the man. Even as she spoke about him it felt as if she was speaking about a child or uneducated serf. However, Hester would likely learn if she had not already, a trained mouth is better than a silent one.
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[Hester Shedo]

OBJECTIVE​

Tags: Adron Malvern​

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Hester tilted her head wryly. She could hear that she was being somewhat scolded for raising the question. Perhaps the Exarch was concerned with her over-familiarity. Rommer was a contentious politician and sat opposed to nearly everything Hester had to offer. Their parties were concerned with approaching things somewhat differently. His, an outward looking party that both prized planetary sovereignty, individualism whilst relying on external trade relations, and hers, one that sought closer ties with members whilst eschewing the need to rely on outside forces. They might agree on things to come.

Perhaps he might have thought about that before presenting a vineyard of wine at my feet.

She sipped a little, watching as the desert portion of this light supper was presented. A light cream tartlet, baked and glazed in sugar and honey. It would taste of a natural apricot and a locally sourced date-nut. It was certainly sweet. It was served with the tiniest sorbet, to cleanse the palate. It was in House Malvern colours again. She smirked proudly, sliding a spoon through the sorbet and tasting it, the cold sweetness activating her tongue. She winced a little as the roof of her mouth came into contact with the cold ice, causing her head to ache. She shook it a little, watching Adron.

"What do you need from me, Exarch? Why have you asked this task of me? There are many systems that could facilitate this task. Why me?"

She was being bold now but she didn't pay it heed. She felt that she was being groomed for something. She didn't mind; she just liked to know what the end-game was.

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[Adron Malvern]

DEAL​

Tags: Hester Shedo ​

The Exarch was growing rather fond of this woman. While she was bold she carried a presence that demanded it's recognition. This alone was something that would serve her well in the halls of politics. Adron payed little mind to the desert that was being served. He had eaten his fill and was not keen on overindulging, especially on sweets. So when the attendant brought the plate before him, he raised a single hand to deny his service. He wondered if Hester would believe he was not pleased with the food, no it was actually more accurate to say he was hoping she would believe that. She needed to believe she was not able to entirely please him, this would keep her attentive in the way she approached the tasks he meted out to her.

When Hester asked why her, the Exarch brought his hand up, taking hold of the glass of wine and sipping at it generously before allowing the pure crystal to return to the finely wove table cloth. Why Hester? What an appropriate question. The Confederacy held a number of Viceroys who were in an equal position as Scarif to receive this task. Some would have been more appreciative than others but still, he had settled on Hester.

"I selected you because you were the one I wished to see succeed more than any other." The Exarch looked to the fine wine they'd been drinking, enjoying the appearance it held within the well formed wine glass. "Give a peasant ten thousand credits and he will spend it all immediately. By the next month he will be no better off than he was before he gained the credits. Give an intelligent individual of proper standing and sound mind the same amount and he will breed a wealth of credits from the seed money he was given."

"Some Viceroys have the minds of peasants. They would never receive this task. Not from my hands." He assured her. "I need the Viceroyalty bolstered with strong, willful Viceroys who will support and defend The Confederacy, as well as The Presidium. Without this we are little more than a gaggle of planets arguing over tax rates."

"It is our duty to be mindful of the future. There will always be change. A change in Viceroys, Exarchs, and even the Vicelord will one day lose his seat. It is in our hands where the pieces fall at those crucial times. I would see them fall to the deserving." He commented, before looking to the woman pointedly. "Unless you'd rather I offer the deal to Viceroy Rommer. I am sure he would utilize it expertly." He challenged, offering the woman a loading question.
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[Hester Shedo]

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Tags: Adron Malvern​

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Hester smirked again, watching the Exarch reject the desert. She didn’t feel it was personal; a man like Adron simply didn’t eat when he didn’t want to eat.

Her mouth said “I would support Viceroy Rommer’s endeavors wholeheartedly. A success for him and his work is a success for the Confederacy.”

Her eyes said, “If want to see a horrible execution of a brilliant idea, I will gladly send it his way.”

She drank a little more. She was being quite flirtatious. But she was courting power and influence. She played with the words he had spoken in her mouth.

“Wilful Viceroys who will support the Presidium? You might just as well have said obedient, Exarch.”

She watched him a little more. She thought on his motives. Had he pointedly mentioned the replacement of the Vicelord? Or was she just surmising? He was a rising star in the government and perhaps he was laying seeds. What was the Scarifan saying?

“There is something our people say: ‘Deep roots would grow beneath the surface of the ground before the bud burst forth. It would need care and nurturing if it were to grow into anything worth building a boat out of.’ “

She looked towards the window, standing. Her striking crimson gown collected and trailed quite beautifully as she walked towards it. She did not fret. The glass was guaranteed to deflect anything, lest it was that ‘subtle asteroid’ that she had thought of earlier.

“Your history with this planet isn’t spoken of much. The old powers are forgotten here. Or at least they have a muted presence.”

She turned to him, inviting him to comment a little on his dalliances with her homeworld.

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[Adron Malvern]

HIGH MOFF​

Tags: Hester Shedo ​

The more the conversation drew on the more the Exarch saw just how interesting this Viceroy was. When he was a slightly younger and less practical man he could imagine the exploits he may have sought out with the woman. However, he was no longer a young High Moff in the Imperial army with the grace to do as he wished. The Confederacy had a certain way of operating and the Exarch was keen to remain within those guidelines. The Viceroy's words spoke an entirely different tale from what her eyes said, so much so that they caused the Exarch to let out a slight chuckle at the response.

"I will say obedient when I wish for obedience. I wish for will and thoughtfulness, not mere obedience." No, he could craft the need for obedience. Obedience was a currency, one that he had learned how to produce in droves. The Exarch flattened his suitcoat down as the woman rose. His eyes watched her carefully, yet no one could say why. He would bring a hand up to his chin, a single finger running across his cheek. His lips curled into an amused smile as she spoke of his time with the Galactic Empire. No, his name was not remembered upon this world, he had seen to that.

"Bothawui was my headquarters. I commanded from there and controlled the sectors surrounding the planet. People in that area remember me far more than Scarif ever will. The last time I was on Scarif it was because an Imperial Governor was stealing funds that were supposed to be reported to the Moff Council." His words were spoken casually, yet there was actually the slightest hint of nostalgia within what he said.

He paused for a moment, thinking back to the Empire before chuckling softly. "I was better known by my moniker than anything in the Galactic Empire." He stood up from the table, making his way over the where the woman stood, facing out of the window. He approached her, his amethyst eyes gazing down at her certainly before he spoke with a small smile. "I was the Emperor's executioner." He explained.

"I was very good at my job." He said with a slight smirk coming to his lips.
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[Hester Shedo]

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Tags: Adron Malvern​

​

Hester knew all about Adron Malvern. She knew he was ruthlessly efficient at his task. She also knew that Adron, though a master statesman, was rather well known for his stoic adherence to the preservation of one thing; him. Embroiled in Imperial treachery, defections, selling out The Dominion to escape his former life. Some would call him opportunistic and a traitor, others might call him an opportunist. They were quite different. He knew that he wasn't always highly favoured-hadn't he tried to kill Exarch Talon? So much of this man's life had played out quite publicly and at the tables of the highest order where the cost to play the game was the fall of Empires and nations. She couldn't ever tell if he was threatening her, just a little. She wouldn't tell him that she was intimidated. He could probably tell.

She turned away from him again, her upper back draped in the black lacing that held the embroidered flowers. She though long and hard.

"I will be obedient, even if it isn't that what you are asking of me."

She turned back to him, walking with some strength in her stride. She watched him some more, her hand taking her fork again and eating a little more of the tartlet. It was a little crumbly now.

"Are you spending the night? Your office was a little...quiet on the matter. We have prepared a suite of rooms for you. If you would like, I would happily give you a tour of the inner workings of the Temple, as we call it. This glorious edifice to Federal power."

She left a pregnant pause.

"Or perhaps you would like to see The Throne room."

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[Adron Malvern]

KING​

Tags: Hester Shedo ​

The Exarch was glad to hear that with Viceroy Hester came obedience. Obediences was something he could surely utilize, though it took different forms. He could not count on blind loyalty, because in the end it meant nothing more than a droid's programming. He needed to surround himself with those who shared the vision he had for prosperity and progression. He needed Viceroy's like the one who stood before him. He could sense the wandering of her mind, where it dared to venture.

He wondered if she would dare to challenge him?

It did not come to pass. No, she had not wished to challenge him so directly, another point in her favor. Alas he decided that this was for the best. He did not appreciate being challenged with his past and certainly it would be received coldly. Still, the man found appreciation even in the wandering of her thoughts. When she asked if he would be staying the night he offered a very mischievous, smirk. The kind that would make women envious from it's mere sight.

"No. I will not be staying." He assured her. He adjusted the links to his cuffs, arching a brow as the woman spoke of the throne room. "Throne rooms are for those who hold the title of King or Queen." He approached her carefully, tilting his head ever so slightly. "I wonder...do you know what it means to be a true King?" He chuckled softly at his own question before approaching the woman, closing the distance until they were but a breath away. His presence dwarfed hers, wrapping around her in a heavy blanket that threatened to take her breath away.

"The King is the will of the people. A man who empowers those beneath him, utilizing absolute authority so that a singular vision may be achieved with ease. He has no equal and his right to rule is absolute. His influence is so that his people love him and his enemies fear him at competing rates. The power of the King is absolute and corruptible, much like the power of the Dark Side." His hand came up, a single finger brushing against the woman's cheek in a tempting gesture. Yet it held no life as he sooned turned away from the woman. Seeds were planted and in all things Hester would surely desire the Exarch more and more as the days grew.

"I will take my leave now. Representatives from my office will provide you with all the necessary paperwork for the work to come. Be sure it is promptly handled." He said with an easy tone as he turned back to the door they had entered in.

"Perhaps next time I will see what Scarif calls a throne room." He said with little curiosity.
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[Hester Shedo]

​

Tags: Adron Malvern​

​

She was being lectured on the art of kingship. She was no royal and yet, somehow, Malvern was goading her. It was as if he was annoyed that she wasn't part of the ruling elites. The problem with democracy is that the people do, ultimately, get a say in who governs their destiny. She didn't mind; she had won with a landslide victory. But there would be dissenters, those that would challenge her governing. She was always on the lookout for vocal opponents. He was leaving.

She pouted a little but understood his time was not hers to rule. He wanted results swiftly and she would make the necessary calls as soon as possible. She was often courted by tycoons and tech impresarios, seeking favorable deals. She knew of a few that would bring this new plan to fruition. It was the first step in building her legacy within the Confederacy.

"I'd be honoured to show you. I wish you the very best travels. Scarif thanks you for your beneficence. I will take my leave and I look forward to working together, as close as possible." She smiled.

She even curtsied a little. She wasn't sure if she was compelled to but she couldn't help show deference to him. She nodded herself and walked out of the room, a little way down a corridor. She stopped at a panel, placing her hand to it. It clicked, opening to reveal a private corridor that led back to her secure apartments. She was met by two attendants, both standing hurriedly as she entered. She waved them with a good natured motion, reassuring them that they had not been caught out. They made for her as she began to unclasp the fine stitching that held her in place. She looked at her face in the mirror, Malvern's words from the evening playing through her mind.

He was quite handsome.

She stepped out of the dress and placed on the slip that she would sleep in, a larger dressing gown slid onto her shoulders. It was large and heavy and enveloped her. The apartment in the Administration Centre (it was akin to a Palace but a planet that wasn't accustomed a sovereign might not agree to such a thing) was intimate and more like a bolthole than a Viceroy's residence. However, it was discreet, safe and she could enjoy the comforts that she was afforded without having to be too far from the action of Governance. She found she spent a lot of time here now.

She made the room ready, brushing her own hair as she sat in front of a reflective screen. She combed it, each stroke a new memory from the dinner dancing in front of her. The way he spoke to her, like honey. The way his hand had touched her gently. The way he had looked at her like he knew who she was.

He knew who she was.

She had told him everything she could. She had brought up her husband's death, his fall from grace. Her rise to power. Dark, scary stories. She lost herself, suspended in time as she played through everything again.

"Katha"

The older attendant appeared, a Scarifan woman with a robust frame and a happy face.

"Yes, Excellency?"

Hester turned to looked at her.

"I'd like you call on Mr Steern. The usual protocol, of course."

She hated to spend the evening so alone after an engaging night's entertainment. It would be good to talk to somebody else.

He also looked an awful lot like Adron Malvern.

She smiled a wicked smile.

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