Come Fly With Me [Gunther/Val]

[Valessia Brentioch]

Cormond​

​

A few months ago, Valessia was on Dosuun entertaining the guests of the then Commonwealth, an ambitious government that now fell into the tyranny that was this galaxy. A collapse from within. Governments come and go these days, as she watched the holonews with a robe tied tightly around her waist. The view from her penthouse was spectacular and it seemed the sky traffic was light this morning. Edra approached her from behind handing her a glass of quint-berry juice, a sweet little drink for the morning. "What's on the agenda today?" The Zabrak wondered as she saddled up to the view. Shoulder to shoulder with Val, the new penthouse was an upgrade that was a definite. It also beat Val swapping her house, Edra actually liked it. Still, here they were in the new penthouse. "Val."

"You remember the banquet?" Val asked aloud as she nursed the glass of quint-berry juice, a finger sliding along the top of the glass. Eyes fixed on some building that dotted the skyline the holonews chatter still going on in the background. Still with the anti-First Order propaganda, "can you shut that off?"

Edra did as asked and came back to hear what Valessia had to say, "yeah, the military bash something about honoring the heroes of Castameer."

"Well," she says turning, an elbow on the rail of the balcony that overlooked the city, "got a hook."

Edra gave Val a smile, "who?"

"Gunther Creed."

"That stuffed uniform who looked like he'd die if he had to smile?" Edra inquired, "jeez Val, you sure do know how to pick'em, don't you?"

The Scion of House Brentioch rolled her eyes and headed inside, just as she stepped into the living room the brunette waved her hand over a sensor that shut the door. From there she tucked her glass of juice into her arm while keying in the code to bring down the visor along all the windows. The penthouse was decorated just as the last one had been, Galactic Empire-era motifs with artefacts from the Sith Empire and now First Order awards and banners started to decorate the house. Her personal droid, Paddy wandered about, her servants Edra and Cin their own rooms. "At any rate, Mr. Creed and I will be meeting for lunch."

"Hopefully this date will go better than how the one with whats her name turned out to be."

Val shot Edra a look, and the Zabrak put her hands in the air. "Listen, gonna go talk to Ori see how she and the girls are doin' and see if Hudir is playing nice Zabrak with the new tenants."

"Alright, behave - give Bruno my love," leaning over she gives Edra a sweet kiss on the cheek, "take Cin with you, keep her out of trouble."

The Devaronian peeked her head around the corner, "oi I 'eard that."

"Then you know I say it out of love, if I need anything Paddy will get in contact with you." Val says watching the two of them disappear, leaving her alone in the penthouse. She wonders for a moment why she purchased such a big place. Compensation she gathered, not that she'd admit it out loud, now then. "Paddy, can you help me pick out something to wear?"

"Of course your worship, at once," the droid said with a bit of cheer in his voice, clinking and clanking away from whatever chore he was doing at the moment, walking with Valessia to her new closet. "I must say it will be nice to meet this Creed fellow, his record is impeccable, although his manners leave something to be desired."

"He's a military man, not a boardroom politican, Paddy. Leave that to me, besides who knows what will happen - now do I go with the red or the black?"

[member="Gunther Creed"]

 

[Gunther Creed]

​The Arms Hotel, Cormond

​The patriarch of House Creed arrived at the capital city of Brentaal IV early in the morning before the crack of dawn. Years of military service forged him into an early riser out of force of habit. As a man who served most of his extensive career as a flag officer he typically operated on a rigid schedule doing things at set times, his agenda was kept and updated by his staff of aides that helped the General manage the impossible work load that often accompanied him. But the Iceman wasn't on Cormond for business or any work related reasons. In fact once more in years he was once more left without a job. Something told him that fateful day when the Lord of Admirals brought him to Alexandria, plying him with tours and his speech of what they were trying to accomplish, that he shouldn't have listened. Something told him that the elder man had too much ambition, and it was his ideas that would bring down the Commonwealth.

​As always the gut feeling he had was right.

​The Commonwealth of Alexandria collapsed in ruin from inside the very regime that supplanted the tyrannic nobility years earlier. Horus disappeared and other ambitious elements tore into each other like dogs trying to climb the throne. As a veteran of two Sith armies the General quietly moved his team of aides, and orchestrated the safe relocation of all Sith veteran off world to escape the chaos. Far too many times had he seen this happen. So when men came breaking down his doors trying their luck at taking down the Iceman, the office was as bare as it was when he was first hired. In the immediate aftermath he returned to the Estate of House Creed in Panatha's capital of Canthar. But so much time spent away on bases and prepared homes close to military HQ it almost didn't feel like home. The absence of family living in the estate left only him, the servants who kept it running, and the officers of his staff who came with him. The next few days were about as lonely as one could get.

So he decided to do something not in the name of a government, and not in the name of ambition. He decided to do something for himself.

​So he came to Cormond.

​Gunther gripped a cup of caff in his hands while he stood in front of the large video screen watching news reports on the chaos erupting on Alexandria in his hotel room clad in a gray designer suit custom tailored to his physique. The suits coat was neatly folded over the chair of a small table situated in the corner of his luxurious, but relatively Spartan hotel room. Richard King, a former Lieutenant Colonel, longtime subordinate, friend and aide stepped into the room "Were all checked in sir, our security is situated in the room next door." ​The man said.

​"You don't need to call me sir anymore Richard." ​In truth he knew Richard was aware, but he often did so out of sheer habit. "Tell them to get comfortable I won't be needing a team for today." ​Gunther calmly said, sipping his caff.

​"Alright. What's going down here Gunther? You've never been to Brentaal IV before."

​"Do you remember the military banquet the Commonwealth hosted with the First Order?"

​"Yeah a memorial for the lives lost at Castameer, why?"

​"I've got a lunch date who I met back then. [member="Valessia Brentioch"]" ​Gunther replied shutting the television off.

​"I remember her. The Trade Representative who turned more heads than the Supreme Leader. From what I remember she had a nice following of people pining after her, how did you manage that?" ​Richard asked with a sly grin on his face. Gunther simply took a long gulp from his caff before setting it down sliding a pair of mints from the dish on the counter into his mouth "I won't be needing you either. Take some time off." ​He moved into the bathroom then where he splashed on some cologne. After looking at himself in the mirror he swept out putting his coat on, on his way out of the door. He made his way down to the entrance of the hotel where a black skycar with tinted windows was waiting for him. After sliding inside the back the car took off.

Twenty Minutes Later...

Gunther stepped out of his skycar in front of the restaurant she picked out for their lunch date. Valessia was a native and he'd defer to her judgement on good places. As a man who prided himself on punctuality Gunther arrived perfectly on time, in fact he was a few minutes earlier. Thankfully he didn't have to wait long before a second skycar pulled up at the front of the walkway that led to the restaurants doors. In the months since the banquet he genuinely forgot about how good the Scion of House Brentioch looked. The woman was for openers absolutely gorgeous to begin with, sharp as a knife's edge and gifted in the art of wordplay, before one could even talk about her full voluptuous figure. She wore a vibrant colored dress that looked comfortable for a lunch date, but was just tight enough to accentuate all of the right areas. In fact he forced himself to look away before she gazed in his direction before she noticed he was staring right at her.

"Ms. Brentioch it's been awhile. You look beautiful today." He said as the two neared one another.

 

[Valessia Brentioch]

Now, let's be honest. Valessia wasn't expecting anything more than just a simple hello, after all, she had business to attend to. Cormond was busy, she had meetings with the Trade Hall. Meetings with the First Order, meetings with the God-Prince and just about every other person who needed something or wanted something. This, this was just her lunch break and as so as she passed by the Arms Hotel, which wouldn't have been her first choice but it would do. Couldn't expect everyone to know of Brentaal IV's best kept secret the Rufigioni run hotels, well actually, Curavo but still - this wasn't bad. The speeder was still en route, Paddy still driving, of course, she scrolled through her schedule speaking in Advb to a few of those on Riflor relaying information to them and Nathaniel Barret.

The restaurant of choice was fairly casual, upscale, with a relaxed atmosphere. Walking in, Valessia didn't find it too hard to find the man in question, Creed. Epicanthix, tall - broad shoulders, good facial structure. By all accounts, Mr. Gunther Creed was more than agreeable, correction General Gunther Creed, she gave him a warm smile. His uniform showed off his physique and she could appreciate it. Not that Valessia didn't get to appreciate the sight of men in uniform on Dosuun, but none of those men were Epicanthix. None of those men were General Gunther Creed. She had read up on his profile, what she could find on the holo at any rate, and perhaps, smiled when she noticed him look away for a moment. "General Creed, it has been quite awhile, indeed. Please, the pleasure is mine and welcome to Brentaal IV. I hope the planet is treating you well." And I am pleased to see that you're here. Is what she didn't say, but the smile on her face said it for her.

[member="Gunther Creed"]

 

[Gunther Creed]

​"Brentaal IV has been good to me thank you." ​Gunther said pulling the door open allowing her to enter in front of him before he stepped in. The mans warriors physique was in direct contrast with how intelligent, and charismatic he really was. Epicanthix weren't a race of warrior brutes devoid of manners or charm, and he was the textbook example of such. Besides allowing her to enter first allowed the Iceman to calmly take in the view while they walked into the restaurant that she picked.

​The place was casual with a far less informal and very relaxed atmosphere, unlike the familiar feeling of banquets and other celebrations. The setting was comfortable and it was definitely upscale Gunther expected nothing less from the Scion of House Brentioch. Valessia wasn't particularly tall or short she stood an average height with a fair blemish free complexion and rich brown eyes. She didn't need to stand out with a distinctive height, she stood out already all on her own. "It's quite the change from where I'm from, have you ever been to Panatha, Ambasador?" ​Gunther said while they followed the waiter to their table. People of importance as herself especially on her homeworld were never required to wait he expected, and they found themselves seated in nice table. Once she was seated he'd then take his seat.

 

[Valessia Brentioch]

Indeed, Valessia and Gunther didn't wait very long and were shown to their table straight away. After taking their respective drink orders they were greeted. "Lady Brentioch," the waiter said with respect, "might I show you a selection of our finest wines this afternoon?" Their water was a tall young man, she gathered he was attending one of the many fine universities around the area. Pursing her lips together she thought on it and answered him politely, "why don't you send your finest bottle to my cellar. I believe the address is already on file."

"Right away, of course, and thank you."

The young man made an easy sell, and Valessia was sure that someone in her little crew would enjoy the wine. For now, she was content to keep her company in conversation, "yes I have actually, just recently. It is a beautiful world, I hope to see it again one day." She imagined it would be soon, there weren't so many trusted Ambassadors for the Grand Moff to send to a world such as Panatha. The brunette's shoulders were relaxed as she shifted her weight in the chair, leaning a bit against the table with her elbows. "And I am glad to hear that Brentaal IV has been good to you, perhaps later I can show you around the city - if you have the time of course." Valessia didn't want to intrude on the man's afternoon after all. This was a simple lunch, catching up with well - someone, even if she had barely met him at the Banquet. "There's a beautiful little Corellian jazz club not too far from your hotel actually, it isn't the most luxurious club on Cormond." A pause, "but." Another pause, if only for effect as she whispers. "Their musicians are some of the best this side of the Galaxy." And then she leans back in her chair with a smile, "not to frown upon the First Order's Music Academy, but... some talents cannot be taught." A little grin hangs off the corner of her mouth.

The waiter returns with their drinks and asks if they're ready to order their meals, Valessia orders something light - for now.

[member="Gunther Creed"]

 

[Gunther Creed]

​"I've just gotten home recently myself. It's been quite some time since I've returned, longer then I'd have liked." ​​Gunther replied. Gunther relaxed his shoulders shifting in the seat, his back remained straight as a board while he listened to her. In truth so many years in the service taught him that one needed to make sacrifices, something all soldiers knew well. In times of war it was quite often liberties were delayed, and men would spend months and occasionally years on the field of battle. Home became whatever officers quarters, tent, bed, or patch of ground he laid his head to sleep in. It was an odd feeling returning to his true birth home after spending countless years circulating the galaxy.

​Each time he returned home it was because of some tragic event that occurred within his life. First it was to bury his father during the time of the Old Sith Empire, then because due to the machinations of others they lost the war, next after spending years in the One Sith he returned home when they collapsed, and now with the Commonwealth on the verge of collapse he did so again. Soon trips to Panatha were synonymous with tragedy altogether. A light smile formed on her face at the mention of seeing more of Cormonds sights, the idea especially of a jazz club he liked. "I do have time actually, galactic turmoil certainly has a way of cleaning ones schedule. I'd like to experience what Brentaal IV has to offer, from someone as cultured as yourself." Gunther replied, always calm and precise. Each word carefully chosen and said.

​As she spoke of the musicians a grin also formed on his face, he leaned in to softly say "Your right. There's just some gifts people are born with." ​When the waiter arrived he'd also choose to eat something light.

[member="Valessia Brentioch"]

 

[Valessia Brentioch]

Their meals arrive in a timely manner, Valessia heard what Gunther was saying. "It's always good to go back, once in awhile - even if the circumstances are not what we like." She says gently, the salad is good and the soup is even better. A warm carrot soup served with Cormond Rye for dipping. She smiled when he said he had time, it would be a welcomed distraction to show the General around the city. Val had planned on staying in for the night. If only so she could catch up on paperwork. Paperwork could wait she supposed social time was always a good thing. "Galactic turmoil seems to be the new thing these days," to say nothing on the current political stances between the First Order and the Galactic Alliance. "And if isn't cleaning ones schedule, it's over booking it."

"How's the food?" Val asks Gunther politely, hoping to segue into something less political. Given their respective careers, it would be hard not to discuss it - a General and an Ambassador? The brunette half wanted to ask if he'd mind it so much on giving her a little tour of Panatha. She didn't press it and instead kept on her food. Val had never been so good at opening up right away, and this was lunch with a peer. Nothing more, and nothing less - her mind was always working she immediately wondered if the First Order army could use another general, but it wasn't her say or place. "The club doesn't really start getting... well, start until later tonight. I have a few meetings to attend in between then but if you'd like we could meet there."

[member="Gunther Creed"]

 

[Gunther Creed]

​Politics was a topic today he desperately wanted to avoid.

​A general and an ambassador? The occupations he and [member="Valessia Brentioch"] held practically ensured that they could have the most boring, draining, and endless discussion about politics. So when Valessia did bring up the galactic turmoil he simply responded with a quick "Indeed it does." ​​Before continuing to eat, the salad and soup were an excellent combination and both dishes were superb. If he ever came back to Brentaal IV he'd certainly have to get the name of the restaurant. Gunther wasn't eager to return to Panatha so quickly and so spending several more hours on Brentaal IV being shown the city by the beautiful Ambassador was certainly a welcomed distraction for the General. Quite contrary to the enlisted mans belief his entire life didn't revolve around war, he knew and enjoyed things in life outside of its grip.

​"The food is excellent thank you, a welcome change from what I've been having lately back home." ​Gunther said internally sighing in relief as they dodged the proverbial bullet on politics. Despite his panache for the field it had a way of draining the joy out of a conversation, and he spent enough time dealing with politics among fellow officers in the military as is. The fact that he had been effectively out of a job since the collapsing of the Commonwealth. He had half a mind to inquire more about the First Order's military, but it wasn't in the Iceman's nature to open with a fellow peer he was eating lunch with. "Yes that sounds great. We'll meet when it starts picking up."

 

[Valessia Brentioch]

Later that afternoon, Valessia was in her penthouse having arrived home after a few rounds of meetings. Most of which involved her lawyer, Mr. Horne and her rescinding offer to buy out her parent's seats in the upper house. She did manage to sell off San Guinem Textum and her shares in the family company and invested in Curovao Shipping. While not an official member of the Curovao family the honour was granted to her due to her lifelong work for them, in other markets. The home was a little quieter than usual, Cin was still out and Paddy was delayed with meetings on her behalf. Managing her entry into Curovao Shipping and ensuring that their First Order assets were given to her one way or another. Whatever mech magic, Sumiko worked on Paddy - it had done wonders for him. Alone, she dropped her things off in the foyer taking off her shoes she padded to her room. A luxurious view of Cormond reminded her of why she loved this city. Always busy, always bustling and as she watched the kites fly, dancing above Centre Park she smiled.

The people below had no idea she was among the few that controlled how they went about their lives and to be honest, she preferred not making decisions that could disrupt that happiness. When the Trade Hall was in session she was often voting to downplay any gain by the upper class. They already had so much, and unfortunately, with her time and interest split with the First Order she was often ridiculed for this belief. None of them saw what she saw, or knew what she knew she sighed, c'est la vie. Turning she watched the Brentaalian sun dance around her bed, and then decided she had stalled long enough.

The sun would be going down, and the club would be picking up soon enough. Valessia stopped for a moment, would this turn into another trainwreck of a relationship like she had with Sumiko? She fiddled with her fingers a moment before walking toward her vanity. No, Gunther was not Sumiko and Sumiko was not Gunther. Two completely different people in every way, she told herself while taking off her earrings and setting them in their case. Something was different about Gunther, the Epicanthix had a solid background from what she knew and from what Edra could dig. A fellow noble, well at least her parents wouldn't have to worry about her marrying down - and he was a military man, father would like that. What was she thinking? She just met the man and she was already planning out their future. Love is a weakness, Valessia. She thought to herself whilst undoing her dress, enough of this talk that she'd marry the man.

Heading into the bathroom she ran the water, hearing commotion and from the sounds of it. Edra. "I'm in the shower," Valessia called out as she stepped in. Warm water dripped down softly, running over her skin and within the next few minutes, the Zabrak joined her. It was not unusual for them to bathe together, Edra had been caring for Valessia for many years now and this was simply part of their routine. What wasn't part of their routine, were the stolen kisses. With Edra it just felt natural, and as the Zabrak handed her the loofa already soaked with her favourite brand of handcrafted soap she grabbed the horn oil and began to rub it into Edra's horns. "How did everything go?"

"Dev is upset that you won't come down, but Ori and the girls are fine, they want to know if you wanna expand or pick up a new trade." Her raspy voice always managed to send chills down Valessia's spine. "Hudir wants to know if that Atrisian of yours is coming back, says he knew a guy in little atrisia that might have work for her."

"No, but I can manage the work tell him to send it our way, and Dev will be fine," Valessia answers almost in the same order she was asked, "good, and maybe there's a bath house right down from the Eye but it's bordering the O'Keefe's hospital and medical center. We'll have to see if they'll part with it, and if they do we can take it. If not, we'll uh... well."

Edra smirked, "do what we usually do and take it anyway."

"Maybe," Val gave her a wink as they side-stepped around each other. "So Edra, I uh, you remember that lunch date from earlier right?"

The Zabrak only looked with a little bit of displeasure, as she put an arm around Valessia. "Maybe."

"I asked him out to the little Corellian jazz club," she replied giving her beloved Edra a kiss on the cheek, "conversation was a little dry this afternoon but he's new and well, he's a general. Politics is inevitable, thought maybe a little music and -"

"Darkness might persuade him out of his pants?"

Val laughed, "hey, I thought you wanted me to get over Sumiko."

"I did but that didn't mean jump into the bed with next suit that came along," Edra almost admonishes as she washes Valessia's hair. "So long as he treats you right and isn't a Sith, we're good."

"Edra."

There's a pause, water dripping over both of their bodies. Penthouse is mostly silent with the exception of the running water. The red skinned, black tattooed Zabrak relinquishes her last statement. "Forgot about that whole thing with Darth Prezza or whatever." Turning around she moves to scrub her body down, and Valessia sighs. She doesn't know what to say right now, part of Edra might be jealous but she knew, she knew that Val could not marry her. It just - that wasn't for them, but this, this was fine.

"We're going to go out later, when the club picks up."

"Where is this General Creed staying?" She asks, "I can arrange for your transportation, don't think Paddy will be back for a bit anyway."

"Arms Hotel."

"Not bad, and well - it's a little far for him, but it should be fine." Edra says, "and Val."

Valessia turns as she finishes up in the shower, ready to step out and get dressed.

"Nevermind."

Whatever it was that Edra was going to say, it died right there as she watched Valessia shrug and move out of the shower.

[member="Gunther Creed"]

 

[Gunther Creed]

​Later on in the afternoon Gunther returned to the Arms Hotel after several meetings over the holo-coms with his staff back home on Panatha. A substantial portion of the former Sith veterans and others came with him following the collapse of the Commonwealth. The primary concern now was talks with the First Order officials currently in the works to bring his people into the fold. The Iceman's primary concern was for the welfare of his men first and foremost, he'd make sure they'd get a home right back in the uniform where they'd be able to do the most good and right now? That was with the First Order. Gunther stood alone in his hotel room in front of the large mirror above the dresser. He was just putting on his cufflinks when his gaze fell to the mirror. Through the reflection of his form he saw the different uniforms he wore throughout his career and standing behind him, the innumerable faces of men and women he served with. Good, loyal soldiers every one of them who laid down their lives in the service of something greater. To a combat soldier and a general he often scrutinized past campaigns where he was forced to send more men to death, more letters of condolences and more men to the doors of homes to tell waiting wives and husbands that their spouses wouldn't be coming home.

​In the aftermath of a particularly bloody conflict Gunther always made it a point to sit down and scroll through the casualty reports, and read the names of the soldiers who died because of moves he made on the game of chess that was war. In particularly quiet moments and often at night the ghosts of the fallen were more vibrant, more real appearing as if they were still standing around him. Once upon a time in his life he was terrorized by these ghosts, of his comrades and the enemy who he put down. But an old mentor of his once said that you should never run away from the ghosts your seeing, you need to make friends with them. Were it any other day he might've been lost in thought at memories of the past, but today was different. Today was special.

​[member="Valessia Brentioch"].

​The lunch date went well except the conversation was pretty dry, which he understood their lives mostly revolving around their work and neither of them wanted to get sucked in to a political discussion on their time off. But above all it was an enjoyable time, the jazz club was definitely something he was looking forward to. He tried thinking back to the last relationship he had, the last real relationship. Years he speculated. There was the casual fling here or there, but the last serious relationship? Years for sure. Gunther's life revolved around the military and in particular his role often as a flag officer which was extremely demanding, taking up most if not all of the free time he had in addition to sending him all across the galaxy. Relationships with an active duty soldier were difficult enough to manage, let alone one of its officers who so often rotated into combat duty. Valessia Brentioch was a distinguished official in the First Order lauded for her expert works, a noble woman in her own right, and a beautiful socialite. She understood the rigors of a rough work schedule traveling so much as a diplomat. Wait-he was getting too ahead of himself.

​Gunther slid on the jacket of the suit he chose for the night familiarizing himself with the address of the club she had given him, she was going to meet him at the jazz club. After buttoning up the jacket he smoothed down the fabric and gave himself a look over before turning to leave. A short walk took him out of the hotel and to the driver who would take him to the club.

Later...

​The drive to the club took longer than lunch and traffic was heavier, but thankfully they left early arriving at the club on time. Gunther moved on the sidewalk towards the building stopping to wait for the arrival of his plus one. However after a few moments he needed to remind himself that he wasn't in uniform, as he stood as straight as an arrow with his hands clasped behind his back. Quickly he returned them safely to his side making a mental note to watch for that.

 

[Valessia Brentioch]

At the Le Cheval Vert, an on the up-and-up Corellian Jazz Club was starting to bustle. A line formed outside and only those who could afford to get in got in, one of the cooks set out the menu for the evening while everyone else looked down to their holopads to see the latest updates for the bar menu. Music would flow outside of the doors anytime they opened, inside if you peeked in at just the right time. You could see a dimly lit club with a dark blue hue and golden lights on tables. For Valessia, she knew the club well enough it was one of her favourites and she was excited to share this with someone new. Her dress was certainly a stunner, black with a belt and off the shoulders. She had worn it once for some official gala a year or two ago, but now, now she wore it for a fun night out. Mhmm, fun - this was what people did when they didn't work right? Or were not busy betting shot at in one of Cormond's crumbling districts such as the Eye.

Le Cheval Vert was on the ground one of the few places that were so prominent, above the Le Cheval Vert were other clubs and high-end dining theatres. Each one with their own set of lights brilliantly illuminating the Brentaalian sky. "I do believe the General is waiting for you, your worship." Paddy said to Valessia, the droid had driven the Ambassador here and would most likely drive her back to her penthouse later on in the evening. From the safety of the speeder, Valessia was able to admire his suit, "at least he has good taste."

"Clearly, your worship - he is after all, seeing you."

"Good point, and thanks."

"You are most welcome."

Valessia gathered herself and her small black clasp purse, as the speeder pulled up along the sidewalk. She opened the passenger door and stepped out, adjusting her dress the brunette looked over to [member="Gunther Creed"] and gave him a smile, "Gen- uh, Mr. Creed," she greeted extending her hand out to him, "so glad you could make it." Turning to the entrance she noticed the long line, shifting her gaze she looked directly at the bouncer and gave him a wave. The bouncer nodded with his head, "c'mon I think we can still get a good table."

Inside the club, the lights were off - save for the stage lights and the lights on the tables. Booths lined the walls with tables going inside stopping short of the stage where the band played, a microphone was down below the stage where the club manager or host would speak. Valessia and her plus one were met at the podium, "Ambassador Brentioch and this is General Creed. I hope my booth is available tonight." It wasn't her booth per say but it was hers when she was there and the host nodded motioning for the two to follow.

 

[Gunther Creed]

​In truth he couldn't remember the last time he had been to any sort of club.

​Besides bombed out, shot out ruins?

​Definitely drew a blank.

​Regardless of that lack of memory he thoroughly enjoyed the club atmosphere around them. Alongside [member="Valessia Brentioch"] he attempted to relax a little, maybe slouch just a few degrees, not stand so rigid like a board. Military training was so drilled into his brain that in a civilian setting like this, even out of uniform Gunther still stuck out like a sore thumb. As soon as they passed through the clubs doors into the shadowy nightclub to the sweet sound of cool jazz music filling their ears, he could see heads turn. Even in the dark a man as tall as him stood out, he was an big shadow, a berserker's body crammed into a nobleman's suit. Fortunately the pitch blackness of the room and his towering shadow ensured they couldn't see the smaller, curvy woman who stood alongside him. Certainly they would've garnered more looks from the bystanders then.

"Ambassador Brentioch and this is General Creed. I hope my booth is available tonight."

​The man didn't keep them waiting and immediately they were off following the pathways lit by lights on the floor while they trailed the well dressed hostwho took them to their booth. Even out of combat his eyes analyzed the room picking out exits, entry points, gazing over the booths. The booth the host stopped at wasn't too far forward towards the dark lights from the band, and wasn't too far back. It was at a perfect position and to make it seem that much more private, it was furthest away from the nearby paths. Gunther let Valessia slide in first before moving in after her, positioning himself so he was next to the Ambassador. "I have to say Valessia I can't remember the last time I've been to a jazz club, or any club." ​Gunther said, sinking into the comfy booth. "To one that isn't a ruin anyway. Its very relaxing." ​He added in a soft voice as the band began to play a new tune.

 

[Valessia Brentioch]

Valessia gave Gunther a smile, "well," she began, "then we will have to do this more often." Her smile is one of encouragement as she settles into her seat. The music was pleasant and hearing it live made the native Brentalaan smile. Indeed, the sight of Gunther alongside Valessia tonight made for heads on a swivel. Surely, she thought, this would make some tabloid in the morning. It had been quite awhile since she had been seen out in public with anyone and that had been the Sith Lord, Sumiko Tanaka.

Her previous power play had been run through the papers for a while, as her parents had no issue with humiliating her. To her credit, the work in Dosuun proved to counter that. Having been waved off as the matyr of a neglected upbringing. "We didn't get a chance to talk a lot earlier," she started off the new round of conversation, "tell me Gunther - more about you, I'm interested." Forward as always, she wanted to know about him.

Around them the club buzzed with its own business, other couples, friends and gathering of friends at various tables and booths. Low lighting made it easier to spill it all. Whether it was trade tips, gossip, or both. Waiters, waitresses walked around to everyone getting orders for drinks, hors d'oeuvre, and desserts. Valessia's booth was no different, a waiter would approach and take their orders if they were ready and then depart for the kitchen.

[member="Gunther Creed"]

 

[Gunther Creed]

​The live music was pleasant and the atmosphere around them relaxed, the dark lighting made it feel as if they were isolated almost alone among the crowds of people around them in the jazz club. Perhaps it was the atmosphere or his company in the form of [member="Valessia Brentioch"] that allowed the Iceman to relax, sighing pleasantly as he sunk into the booth. The atmosphere of the club made it far easier for gatherings of people, meeting couples to spill it all while cloaked in shadows. If one had an excellent pair of ears they could pick up on the trade tips, the gossip and even a little of both that circulated around them all to the sound of clinking drinks and pleasing music that filled the air.

Even in the shadows he could see the waiters as they circulated through the shadowy club, once in a while disappearing across the club in where he could only have guessed the kitchens would be to obtain the various hors d'oeuvre, or deserts one would request. When the waiter came to their table Gunther chose something alcoholic not too strong, enough to be pleasing in this environment. He smiled as she mentioned doing this more often, that was something he could absolutely agree on. But then she touched on the discussion of getting to know him, know the man behind the rank.

What should he tell her?

​Gunther was certain she didn't want to hear him drone on about war story after war story, she could hear that from any veteran soldier even among the First Order. "Alright. As you know I was born on Panatha, to the noble house Creed." ​Gunther said taking a sip of the drink, whatever it was it seemed it was recommended and it was good. "My mother was more the politician while my father spent a lifetime in the military. My mother passed when I was young, and I was raised primarily by my father...a strict disciplinarian." ​Gunther said setting the glass back down on the table. "I guess you could say from my youth I was in training. If I wasn't focusing on academics my father worked with me on his harsh physical training regimen as well as teaching me how to fight."

​"My youth was more focused on work than joy." ​The harsh upbringing created the man who sat before her, the Iceman, an intellectual prodigy and veteran of war.

 

[Valessia Brentioch]

While the music played on, their drinks had arrived. Thanking the waiter, Valessia sat back in the booth listening to [member="Gunther Creed"] with interest. She brought the glass of wine to her lips but didn't drink, taking it down for a moment she gently swirled the glass. She felt for Gunther, if only because his story sounded almost like hers. While she had never quite mourned for her family members, her family was harsh. "Your youth sounds almost like mine," the scion set her drink down and turned in the booth to face Gunther.

"I was born here on my family's estate, my mother and father own and operate Brentioch Luxum, a luxury liner company but they don't actually make the luxury liners as much as they make the fabrics and apholstery by hand, or at least it started by hand." Valessia corrected herself and took a breath as she thought about what to say next, thinking on how much information would she afford this General Creed. "My father, Aruhl - isn't my biological father. The patriarch of house Kallea is, and he knew - he knew that I wasn't his." A pause, as she tucked her lips in a moment, "my mother Carmina is a bit of a veractyl you could say. Aruhl's never been good with money or using his station to the benefit of say our family, and my mother wanted to ensure that she'd have a meal ticket."

Her eyes widen, for a moment as she lets out a nervous chuckle. This was already diving deep. Valessia turned toward the glass of wine and brought it her lips but this time she drank. Setting it back down she continued, "my mother's idea of parenting was - as far away from her as possible. I was raised in boarding schools mostly, and when I wasn't in boarding schools. I was supposed to be at the estate but I never stuck around."

"I met a boy, Articio Rufigioni. He is from a lower class family but the family, Rufigioni is a branch off of the Curovao family and they pretty much own and operate most everything coming in and out of Brentaal IV. Art and I became best friends and he introduced me to his uncle Deivani." Valessia stopped there and gave a shrug, "and I spent more time with them than I did with my own family."

In a way, her upbringing had been harsh while her parents were not strict disciplinarians. They were neglectful, as she was not the prized child but the spare. Her brother, Vinor'stahl had been the prized child, the sun both rose and set with him. Now that he had been disposed of - it all fell to her, the spare. She doesn't mention her brother to Creed, not now anyway. Valessia had already given him far too much information as she once again turned to her glass of wine for comfort.

 

[Gunther Creed]

​While taking casual sips of his drink Gunther listened with great interest as [member="Valessia Brentioch"] told him of her early life, telling him her story. In truth her story had a lot of similarities to his own especially not having a present, caring mother. Valessia didn't have a strong supporting family while Gunther's father was incredibly strict and constantly present. She found family elsewhere with this family the Rufigioni's. While he wasn't a native of Brentaal IV the underworld exploits of its houses were known to him through various subordinates, at least in the general sense.

​Valessia's story seemed to align with them.

​She didn't need to say anything for him to pick up on it, nor did he care of her affiliations and what she was once into. While her parents were neglectful his incredibly strict, controlling the directions of his life drilling into him values from his youth. There were similarities between them. "They're quite similar in certain ways." ​Gunther agreed taking a sip of his drink before setting it down. "When my father stepped away from his career to raise myself and my younger brother life took a dramatic shift you could say. From an young age he drilled into us his values. We lived by a strict set of rules. We were taught to be respectful, to take advantage of each and every minute in the day. My father became my superior officer." ​He said.

​"Most interactions with my father became yes or no sir encounters. We were disciplined if we stepped out of line or did something wrong. My life revolved around schooling and when I wasn't there or studying, and learning outside of school I was fighting and training. Every minute of the day was spent productively doing something to better oneself." ​There was a pause as he focused briefly on the musics shift before continuing. "While I excelled in everything I did, because of how I was raised I never had many friends. It was mostly my brother and I-" ​Gunther stopped then using the excuse of taking a drink to fill the gap. Even though it was years ago the pain from that wound was still felt even after the painful loss, a death that was his fault. "I graduated in the top one percent of my class throughout my educational career, even triple majored at my university. But my path was set. My brother and I were visited by recruiters and we joined the army of the Old Sith Empire almost immediately after, both of us became officers. All Creed men have served in some fashion within an army. We continued that tradition." ​He wouldn't elaborate any further on his past nor his family. Already he told her far too much about his family as it is, never was the Iceman this open, this free lipped with anyone.

In the aftermath he spent time soaking in the music from the live musicians up on the stage, choosing next to order something a tad stronger. Some time later he found his hand misplaced in the darkness on her thigh, most likely during one of the tunes played by the musicians, which he with great hesitation removed, he leaned in to say to her "I'm glad I came Valessia. You are a remarkable woman. This has turned into a very relaxing night, and I feel as if I know you well already."

 

[Valessia Brentioch]

The ambiance of the club was well enough, music changed and the night continued on. "Thank you, you're too kind," she told him, "and yet the night is still young." She reminded the General whilst bringing her the glass of wine up to her lips. " It had not been missed as to where the Epicanthix placed his hand, but she would not tell him otherwise. Recalling some of the information presented the Ambassador had one of two choices, continue conversations or move the scene elsewhere.

Turning her attention she faced him directly, "and it seems we have a few things in common." Valessia weighed her options as she took the General's retreating hand into her own. "If we are to be anything more than this." She was going to lay her terms out on the table, here in the middle of a club near downton Cormond. To a man who she barely knew - and yet from their conversation knew something more than perhaps most people. Alcohol and perhaps a bit of desperation forced hands to open that would otherwise have been closed. "I need to know that I have your utmost discretion on the matter."

The Scion of House Brentioch already made a fool of herself when it came to these matters. "I trust you to understand why," position and station notwithstanding to be seen with Gunter in public would already send hairs raising. Unless she was being courted or perhaps even courting him and that's not what she wanted, not now. Giving his hand a squeeze she gave a small nod of her head toward the exit, "come along."

[member="Gunther Creed"]

 

[Gunther Creed]

​The night was still young as he took casual sips from the wine but the mood quickly changed as [member="Valessia Brentioch"] grabbed his receeding hand. In one swift conversation she laid everything out on the table right here in downtown Cormond. In essence they were strangers and she was revealing herself to a stranger, albeit one she knew more about than most did. Normally the Iceman wasn't so liberal with how he spoke of his past, always it was closed off. But it was easy to talk with Valessia here, perhaps in part to her and her conversational skills? He didn't know.

"I need to know that I have your utmost discretion on the matter."

​There was a brief pause as he gazed around the club in thought of his decision here, the choices that were laid out before him. Alcohol, a change in his position, and a slight attraction opening doors that wouldn't have been open, "You have it." ​He said. Such arrangements were known to him especially often in his position as a commanding General, discretion was key in these matters as one misstep could quite possibly cripple a career if it were to come to light, such was the politics of the jobs he and Valessia held. "Absolutely." ​He said sliding out of the booth smoothing down his jacket before they moved towards the exit together.

​When the pair reached the outside of the club he scanned the road, it didn't take long before a vehicle pulled out in front Gunther speculated it was hers. Across the street he flashed to a similar dark vehicle what could only be described as a subtle military sign, an old signal used among members of the Sith army from the Old Empire. The vehicle pulled away then as Gunther held open the door to her car letting Valessia climb in first, before sliding in after her.

 

[Valessia Brentioch]

In the car, Valessia closed her eyes and wondered what she was becoming. She had let [member="Gunther Creed"] in so easily. A fool, that's what she was becoming the brunette determined. As the speeder moved up toward the upper levels of traffic the neon lights of Cormond lit up the night sky. She shifted in her seat, her eyes looked out upon the skyline and for a brief moment she envisioned her life differently. You poor unfortunate soul, said a voice that clawed in the back of her mind, you hold so much power and influence and do little to wield it. The same voice that so boldly declared the First Order as their allegiance, it was the same voice that yearned to be free of the yoke that was Valessia's mild mannered self. Sucking in a breath she turned her attention toward General Creed.

He was a strong, sturdy man; an Epicanthix. She studied him for a moment, reflected on what he had told her that evening. It's not everyday you exchange war stories with someone. She slipped her hand into his and moved from one end of the speeder to the other. Sitting beside him allowed Valessia to feel safe, secure and perhaps relaxed. If she was a fool for love, then let it be so - a broken heart can only hold so much before it too must be made to feel again. At least this is what she told herself.

In her penthouse, her servants had gone - much like her other homes this one too played into the Imperialist's heart. White, black and red seemed to be the unifying motif throughout the home small hallmarks of the varying empires throughout history could be seen either as emblazoned stones, banners or simple table cloth. Silently, Valessia directed Gunther as to where he could lay his coat, and shoes as she relaxed. She paused for a moment, wondering if she wanted this to be so - controlled. Sponaniety, this is what she needed, "this is it, my humble abode. Well, here on Cormond anyway. I'm in the process of closing on a house near Prosperia on Dosuun."