Private Continuity Required

[Liin Terallo]

Life has taken some unexpected turns. With The Heart of New Cov awakened, bringing throngs of people to New Cov to explore and discover it's secrets; I find myself feeling a little vulnerable. Something happened down there while I was with Karl Von Strauss , and it is something that I do not wish to discuss. Yet I know that my excursions down there underground are not finished. I can feel and hear the Heart tugging at me. Now I am no Force Wizard. I do not have any of those abilities, nor am I even able to use their magical Force. I was never born special in that way. It is very rare for a Covie to be a Force Wizard. Unlike elsewhere in the Galaxy, it seems. Nearly everywhere that I have traveled outside of New Cov is riddled with Force Wizards. So perhaps the Heart is a part of something entirely different.

Still, I feel as though I am in need of some protection. If not from outside threats, but also from myself. I do not need to find myself sleepwalking again. I have hired a bodyguard before, but those that answer such ads hardly remain for long. New Cov is not exactly for everyone. However I get to travel more often nowadays. But I am not sure if it is safer for me on world or off. I was invited to my first ever wedding event recently and it turned into such a chaotic and violent affair that I am certain to hesitate before attending another.

Director Von Strauss is developing a ship for me and I am looking forward to seeing her when she is completed. However I cannot pilot it. Perhaps I could find a bodyguard that could pilot for me as well. I am sure that that could be a good draw in keeping someone employed for longer than a few weeks. We shall see.

It is time to write the advertisement:

~ LONG TIME CONTRACT OFFERED

Bodyguard needed to protect a VIP from New Cov. This is a long term contract, so only those that are strong with commitment need apply.

Experience is an asset, strategic mind, multiple defensive styles, as well as any piloting skills are also a plus.

Interested candidates will receive: Full room and board, medical benefits, compensation and holidays.

A full criminal and security check will be conducted as the successful candidate will be working within highly sensitive areas.

Send your resumes to the following LINK. Only successful candidates will be contacted~

After proofreading it, I send it through. Hoping against hope that someone would respond to it soon. But if not, then I will just do my best to carry on like I normally do.

Tag: Balun Dashiell

 

[Balun Dashiell]

Location: Joiol, Dashiell Estate.
Concerning: Liin Terallo .

As Balun reclined against the soft embrace of his bed, the soothing rhythm of Luna's quiet snores filled the room. She was curled up tightly against his side, her small frame a source of warmth and comfort. Above him, he held his datapad in both hands, the glow of its screen illuminating his face as he scrolled through the Galactic News on the Holonet. Life had taken on a slower, more peaceful pace since he'd parted ways with the Tingel Arm Coalition. Their bitter defeat to the Empire of the Lost had marked the end of that chapter in his life, though it had also gifted him something precious: time. Time to heal. Time to bond. Time to deepen the relationships he cherished most, particularly with his father, Judah Dashiell , and his brother, Makai Dashiell .

But tranquility could only hold him for so long. Restlessness was a familiar companion, a persistent itch that refused to be ignored. Balun wasn't wired to idle. He needed purpose—a sense of making a meaningful contribution, whether to his family, his community, or the galaxy at large. The Tingel Arm Coalition had once been that outlet, but now, as the dust of war settled, Balun found himself searching for a new direction. Not in the ranks of a military or Force organization—he'd had his fill of rigid hierarchies and moral compromises. He wanted something different, something freer, something where his unique skills could shine without the baggage of dogma or politics.

The thought had been simmering for some time, and tonight, as the quiet hours stretched on, Balun finally acted on it. His fingers danced across the datapad, refining his search criteria. Private work, something direct and tangible. Bodyguard contracts caught his eye. It wasn't a field he'd ventured into before, but his experiences had more than prepared him. He'd seen battlefields, safeguarded lives, rendered medical aid under fire, and honed his abilities as both a pilot and a craftsman. He could mend machines as easily as wounds, and he had the mindset to adapt quickly to new challenges.

As he sifted through potential clients, a single name leapt out at him like a beacon: Liin Terallo . His breath hitched. The name alone sparked a flicker of intrigue and recognition, a tantalizing thread he couldn't ignore. He stared at the screen for a moment longer, a grin tugging at the corners of his lips. Maybe, just maybe, the path forward was beginning to take shape.

~ LONG TIME CONTRACT OFFERED

Bodyguard needed to protect a VIP from New Cov. This is a long term contract, so only those that are strong with commitment need apply.

Experience is an asset, strategic mind, multiple defensive styles, as well as any piloting skills are also a plus.

Interested candidates will receive: Full room and board, medical benefits, compensation and holidays.

A full criminal and security check will be conducted as the successful candidate will be working within highly sensitive areas.

Send your resumes to the following LINK. Only successful candidates will be contacted~

APPLICATION SUBMITTED​

 

[Liin Terallo]

If I was an anxious person, then I would have sat there staring at my datapad waiting for anything to get through. However I am not an anxious person. I know how to bide my time and bide it well. And that is in being productive.

I brought my datapad with me to one of my labs, setting it on the table before walking over to a small containment chamber. Inside of it lay a creature of sorts that Mr. Usher had left behind for me when I had come across him during a stopover. It was a curious thing indeed. At first it was a finger, but then it had changed shape into more of a worm-like creature. It had a mouth, yet did not make any sound. Or it did not make any sound that my ears could detect. The containment chamber was made to mimic the jungle of New Cov, complete with fauna, dirt and moss. Little insects also roamed inside for it. I was not sure of what it ate, but at least there were some things available for it. And in these days since it had come into my possession, it has so far survived. So I must be doing something right.

My datapad pinged as I was taking some further notes. Yet it was not until I had finished those notes and finished those thoughts that I had walked over to my desk. I swiped the screen to read the message. An application had arrived. I could not help but raise both of my eyebrows as I read the name. Balun Dashiell. Really? I remembered seeing him at one of the meetings. Mister Dashiell's son. He is a grown man, yet younger than me and a Force Wizard if I am not mistaken. Oh how I wonder if Mister Dashiell had put him up to this. And although I would never ask either of them directly, there was still only one way to find out.

I respond to the application in kind.

~Application accepted. Please arrive at the laboratory complex within two standard days for an interview.~

Tag: Balun Dashiell

 

[Balun Dashiell]

Location: New Cov, N&Z Liitius Domed Facility.
Concerning: Liin Terallo .

Two days later...

The Nomad, a rugged Commercial Heavy Freighter, broke through the orbital haze of New Cov, descending gracefully along the pre-assigned heading. The coordinates had been provided in response to Balun's application—whether from Liin Terallo herself or an assistant, he couldn't say. Regardless, they directed him to a laboratory complex deep within the planet's lush, biodiverse expanse, a place shrouded in both intrigue and mystery.

Reaching for the communications console, Balun keyed in a sequence that sent an automated message ahead to the facility. The transmission was brief but coded, a standard procedure that would alert traffic control of his proximity and request clearance to dock in their hangar. There was no reply; none was needed. By now, the facility's sensors would have registered his ship approaching through the dense atmosphere.

Guiding the Nomad lower, Balun stole a glance at the viewport as the planet's surface began to reveal itself, its vast stretches of verdant greenery interrupted only by shimmering waterways. At that moment, Luna leapt from her perch in the co-pilot's chair, agile as ever, and settled herself atop the console. Her small, curious eyes fixed on the unfolding landscape, her ears perked at the hum of the freighter's engines.

"Another world for the list, eh, girl?" Balun said, his voice warm as he cast a fond look toward his furry companion. His lips curved into a soft smile, the kind that reached his eyes. For all her quirks, Luna was his anchor, a constant in the whirlwind of his ever-changing life.

The freighter banked smoothly, cutting through the clouds as Balun's mind began to wander. Soon, the calm of this moment would give way to business. He'd be stepping into the unknown, speaking with strangers in an unfamiliar environment. Well, not entirely strangers—he'd met Liin once before, though the details of their interaction felt distant, like a faint echo.

What made him more uneasy, though, wasn't the prospect of meeting Liin. It was the decision to keep this venture to himself. Judah Dashiell hadn't been told. Balun's father didn't need to know about his son's latest endeavor—not yet. There was no sense in worrying him unnecessarily, especially not when Balun still wasn't certain what he was walking into.

As the laboratory complex came into view, its stark, modern structures a sharp contrast against the wild beauty of New Cov, Balun tightened his grip on the controls and exhaled deeply. The adventure was just beginning.

 

[Liin Terallo]

As soon as The Nomad entered into orbit, I was notified. Planned visits had a tendency to go that way. Yet my guest's arrival would still take some time as he would have to gain clearance through the dome's vent system to gain access. So that gave me plenty of time to finish my notes and hang up my lab coat.

I do not rush, yet I do not take my time with them either. Instead I merely finish my thoughts on findings before closing my datapad and slipping it into the safe hidden in my lab's wall. After sealing it up, I hang up my lab coat and proceed to my office. I needed to look my best and not as though I was working. It was always better to give people the impression that I just sat in an office all day.

I had refreshments brought in, as well as a variety of drinks both hot and cold. I had to be a proper host, afterall. And as everything was all settled, I made my way over to the adjacent landing pad to meet my guest. I am not without my guards that protect the facility and all of it's staff while I watch The Nomad descend. Precautions must be kept in case I was to once again invite doom through the front door.

Tag: Balun Dashiell

 

[Balun Dashiell]

Location: N&Z Liitius Domed Facility, Hangar.
Wearing: X.
Concerning: Liin Terallo .

Balun Dashiell followed the instructions piped through his earpiece, its soft crackle synced seamlessly with the Nomad's comm system. He guided the imposing freighter with a steady hand, descending toward the designated landing zone granted to him courtesy of Lady Liin Terallo's invitation.

The Nomad was far from the sleek, tactical craft one might expect of a bodyguard. Instead, it was a hulking, rugged vessel—a modified industrial cargo freighter designed to endure long hauls and heavy loads. Its scarred hull and reinforced plating told a story of resilience and reinvention. Balun himself had stumbled upon her adrift in deep space, abandoned and forgotten, her previous pilot long since departed into the void. Salvage laws had made her his, and over time, he'd transformed the freighter into a mobile workshop and base of operations for Dashiell Retrofit™, the emblem of his burgeoning enterprise.

As the ship settled into place with a hiss of decompressing hydraulics, the cargo bay ramp lowered with a smooth, deliberate motion, revealing Balun as he descended into view. His attire was practical yet stylish, a blend of utility and casual sophistication that set him apart from the typical image of a Force user. He wore a black leather jacket over a crisp white button-down shirt, layered with a tailored gray vest. Fitted black jeans and sturdy boots completed the look, balancing his polished demeanor with a sense of readiness.

At his waist hung his lightsaber, its design elegant and unmistakable, a quiet declaration of his past and the power he carried. Beside it, however, was a more pragmatic companion: a holstered K-16 Bryar Pistol, its worn grip a testament to regular use. These were his tools of choice in a fight, though they were far from the only surprises in his arsenal.

Trailing behind him, the cargo ramp clanged softly under the rolling form of Chip, a BB-model astromech droid whose polished silver and blue frame gleamed faintly in the ambient light. Chip chirped quietly as he followed his master, ever-ready to assist with calculations, repairs, or whatever challenges lay ahead. Not far behind, darting down with a lithe, feline grace, was Luna, Balun's mischievous yet fiercely loyal Merqaal companion. Her wide, curious eyes and sleek frame masked her true nature—a highly resourceful partner who'd proven invaluable on countless missions. Where Chip brought logic and precision, Luna delivered stealth and unpredictability, a perfect ace up Balun's sleeve.

The trio advanced across the landing zone toward the facility where Lady Terallo awaited. Despite the weight of the weapons he carried and the shadow of his history, Balun's expression was calm, even warm—a young man carving out a new purpose while carrying the echoes of his past with quiet resolve.

 

[Liin Terallo]

While I had expected just to see the young Mister Dashiell approach in full Force Wizard garb; I am instead greeted by a young man looking like a spacer. Not only that but he seems to have two companions. A little droid, along with a creature that I had not seen before.

I do not allow my gaze to linger on the companions for long, however. Instead I bring my focus back to Mister Dashiell and bow my head to him in greeting before holding out my hand for him to shake. "Welcome to New Cov, Mister Dashiell. I must say that I am quite surprised to discover that you are wanting to move into this line of work. However I am not against such a move, either. Everyone has their own path to follow, afterall. Shall we step inside? I have some refreshments prepared. Although I must admit that I am not aware of what your little.....friend eats." I do hope that he does not make a mess on my carpets either.

Tag: Balun Dashiell

 

[Balun Dashiell]

As Balun approached Liin Terallo and her entourage of guards, flanked by his ever-present companions, he offered the Lady a warm, genuine smile. His stride was confident yet unhurried, the poise of someone mindful of the weight of first impressions. When he reached her, he extended his hand in greeting, his grip firm but respectful as they shook hands—a gesture of both formality and sincerity.

Chip and Luna stayed close by, their postures reflecting quiet alertness. Chip's dome swiveled with subtle curiosity, while Luna, ever the watchful Merqaal, moved gracefully at Balun's side. They didn't encroach on Liin or her guards, instead remaining still, awaiting Balun's cue to follow or stand down.

"Thank you, Lady Terallo. It's a pleasure to see you again," Balun said, his voice carrying both warmth and formality. There was an ease in his tone, but also an undertone of appreciation—not only for her hospitality on New Cov but for the familiarity of a shared history. Their paths had first crossed during a Corporate Expo hosted by the CEO of Krinemonen Hydraworks, an event where Balun had accompanied his father, Judah Dashiell . That meeting, though brief, had left a lasting impression.

"I'd be happy to explain my motivations wherever you feel most comfortable," Balun continued, his polite smile unwavering. With a small, fluid motion, he gestured with his hand, inviting her to lead the way. "Please, after you." Despite his youth, Balun carried himself with the composed professionalism of someone who understood the stakes. Liin wasn't just a potential employer; she was a business associate and an ally of his family. This was as much about representing the Dashiell name as it was about his own ambitions.

Turning briefly, Balun glanced down at Luna, who had paused at his side. "Oh, and don't worry about my Merqaal friend here," he added with a hint of humour, clicking his tongue softly to call her up. Luna sprang to life, deftly climbing up his leg, across his torso, and finally perching on his right shoulder. Her large, curious eyes fixed on Liin, a mixture of cautious interest and calm contentment. Balun chuckled lightly, reaching up to scratch behind one of Luna's ears.

"She won't be any trouble—she's already eaten," he concluded, the faintest trace of a grin playing on his lips as he turned his attention back to Liin. Luna tilted her head as if to second the sentiment, her tiny frame a picture of innocence atop Balun's shoulder.

 

[Liin Terallo]

His grip was a good one. They say that one can tell a lot about a person through their handshake and his expressed much. Well there was that and the expression in his eyes.

"My office will be a well suited place for our conversation." As I began to turn on my heel to lead him,,I give pause as his little friend climved up quickly onto his shoulder. I am slightly taken aback for I was not expecting such swiftness. Yet I compose myself quickly. "She is quite the adept creature. Although I must caution you from allowing her outside of the domes. The jungles of New Cov are not a safe place."

Once that was said, I continue my turn and lead young Mister Dashiell inside. A few of my guards join us, but only to the point where we had entered the building. After that, we are left on our own.

The newest headquarters for N&Z Laboratories and NCBC is much larger than the previous facilities. And one could probably tell that it was newly constructed, for the newness of it all just hung in the air.

My office is not at the top of the facility like one might expect. Instead it was on the same level as sime of the labs. I prefer it for the ease it presents and the saved time from going back and forth between the two. "As you can see, Mister Dashiell, this is not exactly a small operation. Your little friends should be relatively out of harm's way. Although I think it wise that they stay out of the laboratories. Even I must be properly attired when venturing into some of them." Young Mister Dashiell and his friends are sure to see what I mean as we pass by the transparasteel windows of some of the labs. Within them are various plantlife; some of which were encased while others are not. Yet it is at a doubledoor that I stop and press my hand on the touchpad. The camera had already scanned my face as we neared the door. And as my identity was verified, the doors opened to allow us entry. Inside, there sat my desk to one side, in front of bookshelves. To the right was a small table with refreshments and drinks. On the left side there sat a small couch and a couple of comfortable armchairs around a small coffee table. "Please help yourself to whatever you'd like. And what brings you into venturing from business to this line of work?"

Tag: Balun Dashiell

 

[Balun Dashiell]

Liin Terallo 's remark about Luna drew a slight smirk from Balun as he turned his head toward the small Merqaal perched on his shoulder. He reached up to scratch behind one of her ears, his touch light but familiar.

"She's a special girl, for sure," he said, his voice carrying a note of quiet fondness. "I'd never seen one of her kind before I found her in the Outer Rim. She was caught up in a trafficking operation—I managed to put a stop to it, and freed a few different creatures they'd captured. But Luna…" His lips quirked into a faint smile as he glanced at the little creature. "She followed me back onto my ship and decided to stay. And, well—here we are."

He kept the details of that first encounter vague, not feeling the need to dwell on the past. There had been more to that night than just a simple rescue, but it wasn't a story for today.

As they walked side by side toward Liin's office, Balun took note of the layout of the facility, his sharp eyes naturally assessing his surroundings. It struck him as interesting that Liin had chosen an office on the same floor as her employees rather than a secluded, upper-level space. It suggested she didn't consider herself above them, that she valued accessibility over hierarchy. A choice like that fostered a different kind of leadership—one built on presence rather than distance.

Her warning about the domed sanctuary and the restrictions regarding the laboratories caught his attention, and he gave a small nod of acknowledgment.

"What kind of work do you do here, exactly?" he asked, his tone carrying a casual curiosity. He knew little about Liin beyond her connection to his father, Judah Dashiell , and what little he had gleaned from business reports. Trustworthy, yes—but her line of work? That remained a mystery.

"It would help to know," he continued, "considering the potential threats I'd be dealing with as your bodyguard—assuming you decide to hire me. I'm guessing your work is the reason you require protection?" His question, while phrased as an inquiry, carried an undertone of certainty.

Upon entering Liin's office, Balun took in his surroundings with a quiet, observant glance. The room was refined yet understated—fancy in its own way, but not ostentatious. There was a seating area with a couch and two single chairs on one side, while the opposite wall was lined with holo-books, their titles largely unfamiliar to him. It had been a long time since he had bothered to read anything beyond technical schematics—not since he had walked away from the New Jedi Order six years ago.

Chip, his BB-model astromech, wheeled to a stop in the corner closest to the door. The droid wouldn't interfere with the facility's security systems, but its sensors remained active, keeping a watchful eye on the space—and on Balun. Luna, meanwhile, remained on his shoulder until he moved toward the seating area. Settling into one of the single chairs, he gave a small, inviting gesture toward the other, glancing at Liin with a relaxed smile.

"As you probably noticed during our first meeting, I was still wearing Jedi robes at the time," he began, his tone casual but direct. Now that they were speaking privately, he saw no reason to be guarded.

"I left the New Jedi Order six years ago," he continued. "Found my real family—or rather, my dad found me. Spent some time getting to know them before enlisting with the Tingel Arm Coalition, where I served as an Aquilian Ranger—their equivalent of special forces in the Outer Rim's rebellion against the Empire of the Lost."

He leaned forward slightly, resting his forearms on his knees. "I've got the training of a Jedi, the experience of a soldier, and I run my own manufacturing company on the side. What I don't have right now is a clear direction beyond my family and business, so I figured—why not put my skills to use protecting someone who actually needs it?"

A small chuckle escaped him as he leaned back, shaking his head slightly. "I was looking into private security work when your name came up," he admitted, gesturing toward her with a subtle smirk. "A friend of my father's—I figured it made sense to at least apply and try my luck."

 

[Liin Terallo]

I can respect and appreciate the manner upon which the young Mister Dashiell had acquired his pet Luna. I can only imagine that he had bought his droid companion, as most do.

I am a little surprised that he knew nothing about the work NCBC and by extension; N&Z Laboratories does. He did raise a good point, however. He would need to know. I did not have a lot to hide in respect to my work. There are just a few projects that I do not tell anyone of yet, as they are merely at the thinking stage.

"New Cov's main resource is biomolecules. It is the rarest resource in the Galaxy, for they can only be found here. They cannot be replicated either. Yet their uses are vast ranging from medicinal to agriculture to military. That rarity has caused some unpleasant people to attempt hostile takeovers of New Cov. Fortunately we've not been conquered, nor have we lost our neutrality. And at the moment I can safely say that we have no enemies." The trade embargo against the Dark Empire does present some tension. However I did agree to work with Allister McAuliffe on some future projects which do not violate the embargo.

I take a seat not occupied by either of them, keeping my posture straight whilst my ankles are crossed. "I do what I can to protect New Cov while continuing my work with biomolecules. There are some journeys to take, both on New Cov and off. I cannot pilot any ships, so I would need someone capable, which you clearly are. Now I must ask, is this something that you plan on keeping from your father, should you be hired? Most of my journeys are for meetings upon which he tends to be a part of."

Tag: Balun Dashiell

 

[Balun Dashiell]

As Liin Terallo spoke, Balun listened attentively, his expression thoughtful as he absorbed the details of her work. From what he could tell, everything seemed above board—at least within the limits of his understanding of biomolecular science, which, admittedly, wasn't much.

But it wasn't the science that caught him off guard.

At one particular remark, a quiet chuckle escaped him, soon followed by a soft, amused laugh. He shook his head slightly, flashing a wide grin as he turned his gaze back to his host, his amusement clear in his eyes.

"No, no need to keep this from the Old Man," he said with easy confidence. "If anything, he'll probably just be relieved that I haven't gone back to the Jedi or thrown myself into another war."

He knew Judah Dashiell well enough to be certain of that. His father had never hidden his disapproval of the New Jedi Order, and though he had never outright condemned Balun's time with the Tingel Arm Coalition, the concern had been there all the same. Understandably so.

"Besides," Balun added, leaning back slightly in his seat, his voice carrying a note of certainty, "I know he wants what's best for me—but he and I both know I managed just fine for the first fifteen years of my life. And sure, things are a hell of a lot better now, but I think I've made it pretty clear that, at the end of the day, I'm going to do my own thing."

His grin softened slightly, but the conviction remained in his tone.

"As much as I love them, I'm the only Force User in my family. What works for them… isn't always going to work for me."

 

[Liin Terallo]

I do not share in his laughter. Instead I just merely nod in understanding. I do not know his father too well. But then again that can be said about my knowledge of everyone but my parents. I have not been the type of person to let my barriers down and allow others to get to know me personally. I just cannot allow myself to do so. I have lived such a protected life, that it feels as though I would just be laughed at for all of my shortcomings of basic skills. I know for certain that I would not be able to survive on my own if I was stranded somewhere. I will always be dependent on others.

"It seems as though nearly everyone outside of New Cov is a Force Wizard. For they are mostly all that I have encountered. And a lot of them look down upon those like me, as though I am an inferior species. I find that rather sad. And it is a real shame that they are the center of most of the Galaxy's wars. Perhaps it is the lack of Force Wizards on New Cov that keeps us safe from becoming a target in those wars. That and maintaining our neutrality. I was given word that Naboo was interested in gaving New Cov fly their banner, but our Prime Minister politely declined, and the matter was dropped."

I pause for a moment before continuing. "I am certain that you will not be plunged into war here; and it would be really rare for you to have to fight at all. However given the events that happened at a wedding your father invited me to for a business venture; well I am sure that it is safe to say that your father will not always be there to take me out of harm's way. I do not plan to attend another wedding any time soon after that horrid affair, but that does not mean that every other social event is completely safe. Now I could easily bring some of the security forces here along with me, however I would rather them remain to protect this facility should anyone attempt to break into it."

Tag: Balun Dashiell

 

[Balun Dashiell]

The term "Force Wizard" was new to Balun, and as he repeated it silently in his head, he found it oddly comical. It wasn't a term he'd ever heard used before, but it did carry a certain charm. Still, despite the lightheartedness of the phrase, the deeper conversation surrounding Force Users—their nature, their reputation, and the way they were perceived—was one Balun was intimately familiar with. He had given it much thought over the years, and unlike Liin Terallo , he wasn't particularly guarded about his beliefs.

If anything, Balun considered himself an open book when it came to discussing Force Users, so long as the conversation was approached with mutual respect.

"Believe it or not," he began, his voice calm yet certain, "Force Users are the minority in the galaxy. You may have encountered more than a few in your time, but we are vastly outnumbered by Non-Force Users—which, honestly, is a good thing."

There was no arrogance in his words, only honest conviction. The Force was a powerful and dangerous gift, and Balun knew all too well how easily it could be abused.

"The Force isn't something that should be accessed without great care," he continued. "Or wielded without responsibility. And yet, there are too many who seek to exploit it—who justify their ambitions by stepping on the lives of others."

The Sith were the obvious example, the ones the Jedi had always used in their teachings. But Balun's concerns had never been so black and white.

His voice took on a more thoughtful tone as he leaned back slightly.

"I was young when I left the New Jedi Order, but I had my reasons. One of them was the constant bias that Force Users hold toward those whose ideologies and practices differ from their own. The Jedi believe they are righteous, but they are just as capable of prejudice and arrogance as the Sith."

His gaze steadied on Liin, a flicker of defiance in his expression.

"Non-Force Users are not beneath me. Nor do I—nor should any of us—have the right to look down on them. We are just as flawed, just as prone to mistakes. Take the Jedi, for example. They claim to serve and protect those in need, yet they are often far too quick to pass judgment."

He exhaled, shaking his head slightly, a small yet wary smirk tugging at the corner of his lips. An uncomfortable truth.

"To condemn an entire people based on the actions of the few? I could never align with that way of thinking."

His voice carried a note of quiet rebellion now.

"I treat everyone on an individual basis. I have befriended Sith. I have even dated Sith—"

The smirk widened into a full grin as he glanced at Liin, knowing full well how unorthodox that statement was.

"—much to the dismay of some, I'm sure."

A light chuckle left him as he shrugged, allowing a touch of humor to return to the conversation.

"Oh, and just to put your mind at ease—I've no intention of getting married, so no dramatic Sith weddings in my immediate future either."

The quiet laugh that followed was genuine, though there was something in his expression—a flicker of something unspoken—that suggested the subject of relationships was still a little raw.

He let the moment pass, shifting the conversation back toward the matter at hand.

"There won't be any commitments or obligations interfering with my work here, should you choose to hire me," he assured her. "I can manage Dashiell Retrofit from a distance, and, frankly, my father will probably be relieved knowing that an associate of his is keeping me on the straight and narrow."

His smile was lighthearted, but his words carried an undeniable truth.

 

[Liin Terallo]

I find it difficult to believe that Force Wizards are rare; most especially amongst the upper elite. About ninety-nine percent of everyone that I have met outside of New Cov were Force Wizards. Even some droids also carried the skills. Perhaps it is only in the lower classes where such a thing was rare. But certainly not in the world of politics and war.

I listen to young Mister Dashiell as he speaks. His statements are sound and they align with my own. There are reasons in which I would keep New Cov away from the clutches of the Galactic Alliance. Their war mongering was just as bad as that of their enemies. Some civilizations thrive with war; and they are no different. At least the Covie cannot be counted among them.

"Well not to worry, Mister Dashiell, for there are no weddings in my future either. I have never even been on a date, let alone had anyone show any interest. So that crisis can be averted.

And you are certainly a great fit for the position, however I do worry that with the lack of action that you might find it boring. I spend most of every waking hour working, either in my labs or in meetings either here or abroad. You would of course have some days off to spend how you will. And there is a Jedi Temple here on New Cov hidden in the jungles. But I do not know of it's exact location, for obvious reasons."

Tag: Balun Dashiell

 

[Balun Dashiell]

"A lack of action shouldn't be something to complain about," Balun remarked, his voice laced with a quiet certainty.

His mind drifted to an old friend, someone who had once told him—half in jest, half in concern—that he was far too focused on the fight for a Jedi. And maybe there had been truth in those words.

Balun had seen war firsthand. He had fought in the Tingel Arm Coalition's war against the Empire of the Lost, standing beside soldiers who had given everything for the cause. He had witnessed death on the battlefield—comrades cut down, enemies felled without mercy—even if he himself had never taken a life.

It wasn't because he lacked the ability. It was because he had always been precise—intentional in his actions. He had learned how to immobilize rather than kill, and when the situation demanded it, he had severed limbs instead of ending lives. It was a brutal trade-off, but one that ensured his opponents survived, even if they never fought again.

War was never clean. Never just. Never without consequence.

At the end of the day, no one won when lives were lost on either side.

Yet here, in this moment, Balun found himself speaking of something far removed from the violence he had known. His expression shifted, and a subtle light entered his eyes.

"Believe it or not," he continued, his tone softening, "I actually have experience in herbology and alchemy."

The statement might have seemed unexpected from a trained warrior, but there was a genuine fondness in his voice.

"I've spent years studying how to create antidotes, tonics, and potions from the local flora of my homeworld. If given the chance, I could probably lose myself for hours...days, even...exploring New Cov's wilderness, studying its plant life."

There was an almost wistful quality to his words now, as if speaking them aloud reminded him of a part of himself he rarely had time to indulge.

"I've always been fascinated by nature," Balun admitted, his gaze turning thoughtful. "By the way the Force flows through all living things. Every leaf, every root, every fiber of soil… it's all part of something bigger."

His voice was steady, but there was passion beneath it—something real.

"Just like every sentient being in the galaxy, nature plays its role in shaping life. Everything is connected. Everything has purpose."

For once, his words weren't driven by duty, or war, or the expectations placed upon him.

They were simply his own.

Liin Terallo

 

[Liin Terallo]

Well I know for certain that a lack of action is what have had other bodyguards move on. Most of them have barely lasted a week. I am guessing that they suspect that a high profile lady would be up to her arms in danger, however with a lack of enemies, there is no danger at all. New Cov's neutrality have helped to maintain the order of safety.

So I am not exactly planning for anything different to occur. Afterall, there is no need to have high hopes, only to have them dashed.

The topic shifted slightly and I could not help but laugh softly to myself as the young Mister Dashiell spoke of spending hours or days in the jungles of New Cov to study it. Has he already forgotten how deadly of a choice that would be? It apparently seems so.

Just as I was about to make my comment, the topic shifted once more, delving into the Force Wizard religion. I wanted to respond to him with ; and we are all made of star dust, but I kept that thought to myself. I am no believer in his religion. When we die we cease to be; our bodies left to decompose and break down into nutrients for other species. All that one could ever hope for is to leave their little pocket of the Galaxy better than it was when one was born. And that is all.

"There is a very, very good reason why the Covie live within the safety of domed cities, Mister Dashiell," I politely remind him. "Our plantlife and the animals living within the jungles are deadly. What may seem to be a delicate and beautiful flower will likely rip your face off should you try to catch it's scent. I would refrain from venturing out there on foot. However I do have many specimens within the labs that you may study, if you wish."

Tag: Balun Dashiell

 

[Balun Dashiell]

Survival in the wilderness was where Balun truly excelled.

It wasn't just skill—though he had plenty of that. It wasn't even solely the Force that gave him an edge. There was something else, something innate, something that made him feel at home beneath the open sky, surrounded by towering trees, untamed rivers, and the rhythmic pulse of life that thrived beyond the reach of civilization.

He respected the wilds. He lived in harmony with them. He loved them—perhaps even more than he did the sentient worlds that claimed dominion over the galaxy.

Liin Terallo , however, did not seem to share that understanding.

It wasn't out of dismissiveness, though. She reminded him of his father in a way—not in belief, but in skepticism. The difference was that Liin expressed her views with grace and respect, something Balun deeply appreciated. Not everyone had to agree, but what mattered was how they chose to disagree.

To listen instead of dismiss.
To acknowledge instead of condemn.
To show decency and kindness even when perspectives diverged.

These were the traits of a great person, and in Liin, Balun saw them.

"I understand, Liin," he assured her, his voice even. "Rest assured, your warning is well heard."

He lowered his head slightly—not a bow, but a subtle gesture of respect, accompanied by a small smile. It was both polite and sincere, the mark of a friend rather than a mere business associate. Then, straightening his posture once more, his gaze drifted thoughtfully toward her laboratories.

"I'd like to see what you've cataloged, if you don't mind," he said, curiosity woven into his tone. "I'm guessing your people put the local flora to good use—for medicine and sustenance?"

 

[Liin Terallo]

Well heard?

I can only hope that my warning is listened to as well. But I have a feeling that young Mister Dashiell will not be heeding my warning so much. And if our roles were reversed, I would probably behave in much of the same manner as him. There are some moments when I feel a little rebellious too. But I know New Cov far better than he does.

I acknowledge his bow with a nod of my own, and return the small smile. However, I did pick up on him addressing me informally. I am not used to it. Someone in his way of life might do so out of second nature. I have lived quite a sheltered life, and what is common for others is not so common for me. There are very few people that call me by my first name. The barriers that I have built around myself have kept me safe from public scandal and heartbreak. Of course that all came with a cost; but those among high society are supposed to be aloof, are they not?

Still, I do not hold it against him. Instead I rise to my feet and gesture towards the door leading not out of my office; but to my laboratory. More often than not I spend my time there, so it is a good idea that he is to know of it's precise location.

"Right this way, Mister Dashiell. And yes, our flora is used for many purposes, each holding a different aspect and providence. Our biomolecules are harvested seasonally; although that process is a well and carefully guarded secret." I proceed towards my labaoratory, but then pause just before the door. "I am afraid that your companions are not permitted in the labs. I must keep those area as sterile as possible, as I am sure you are well aware. And I do not need their curiosity to cause them harm."

Within my laboratory is a coat rack holding manditory lab coats, tables, multiple instruments, holoscreens of all sorts, as well as plenty of containment chambers of many different sizes filled with various specimens. Some chambers are more enclosed than others. Shelves are riddled with vials and bottles; some are empty while others are filled with anything from various liquids to twigs, dried flowers and leaves. But there is another shelf filled with an array of different metals, as well as a kiln for heating them.

"Please feel free to look around. This lab is just a small sample of what can be found throughout this facility."

Tag: Balun Dashiell