Private Exploring New Avenues

[Liin Terallo]

My parents should be pleased with this news, should it prove to be conductive of benefiting New Cov. Just what the news will be that I am to relay to the rest of the Board of Directors, I am unaware of just yet. But I do have my guesses! New Cov's biomolecules are highly rare and highly sought after among those in the know. Although sometimes those that are in the know are ne'er-do-wells, pirates and Sith Lords that only seek to conquer New Cov to hold a monopoly over our supply. It is fortunate that such attempts, even the most recent one, have failed and that New Cov continues to maintain their independence and freedom.

And I maintain my own freedom as well. If the Sith Lord had succeeded in his attempts, my life would have been forfeit. Either that or I'd of been enslaved and turned into a monster like some of the unfortunate Covie that were abducted by his minions. I do hope to find the abducted Covie and to help them. Or at the very least, I hope to bring home their bodies. If that's even possible. I do carry some guilt with me over their abductions and for all of the Covie that were killed in the battle in Ilic City. However there was a protocol to be carried out should such an event take place and my Father set it in motion to be sure that it was followed. Even our security team that whisked me away out of reach of our enemies knew that that protocol was to be followed, no matter what. Of course I was hesitant at first, with a desire to save whom I could, but that all changed once the situation grew in intensity and I allowed my security team to do their job. The protocols were put in place for a reason and if it weren't for them, New Cov would not be free today.

I sip my glass of wine from my desk inside of the diplomatic vessel that has been my home away from home as I garner new business and new support for New Cov. It is a comfortable and beautifully designed vessel which is far more pleasing than a clunky-looking cruiser. I dictate out a message to my datapad using it's voice-to-type feature:

"Mister Mer'taal,

I am pleased to inform you that my calendar has an opening for us to conduct our meeting. Please provide me the coordinates and I shall arrive promptly. Alternatively, you are welcomed to hold the meeting via holofeed, if that is what you prefer given your own busy schedule.

I await your response in due course.

Director Liin Terallo."

As always I am cautious about what to relay to the holonet. Afterall, one cannot expect that such messages wouldn't be read by prying eyes no matter how secure the channel may be. The more vague the message, the better. Anything important that can be said is better left when face to face.



Tag: Casteel Mer'taal

 

[Casteel Mer'taal]

​

Corseca Bank Headquarters
Cambriele - Ralltiir
Interacting with: Liin Terallo

Casteel Mer'taal leaned back in his chair, the soft glow of the encrypted holomessage casting faint shadows across the room. With a flick of his wrist, he dismissed the message, the same unbothered elegance that defined every action he took. His expression remained as calm and composed as ever, his mind coolly processing the critical information. Another step, another calculated move in the game he played so effortlessly. The meetings scheduled for today and those to come would determine the future of Corseca Bank, especially in the aftermath of Empress Teta's occupation by the Dark Empire.

But Casteel was not the sort of man to let such disruptions rattle him. He had prepared for this, weaving a delicate web of redundancies to shield his clients' credits and, more importantly, their privacy. And now, his attention was on something even grander -- the construction of Corseca Bank's new headquarters on Ralltiir, an ideal choice. Cambriele, the capital, offered the neutrality and respect for financial independence that Casteel demanded. It was, after all, a world where secrets were currency, and privacy was paramount.

As the soft clink of ice echoed from his lowball glass, Casteel's piercing blue eyes drifted over the data on New Cov and Director Liin Terallo. A strategic alliance with her could prove fruitful -- if handled with the right finesse. His mind wandered briefly, evaluating the potential, the risks, and the rewards. While young, it was likely that Terallo was no fool, and she could be a powerful ally if approached correctly.

He exhaled slowly, lifting the glass to his lips, the pale blue light from the holoscreen reflecting off his sculpted, handsome features. The taste of his drink was sharp and cold, just the way he liked it, no different than the decisions he made every day. No detail slipped past him, no opportunity overlooked.

With one final thought, he composed his holo-message. He knew better than to summon someone like Lady Terallo; that would be crass, unbecoming. A man of his stature would, of course, defer to her preference. It was a matter of respect -- and strategy.

Director Terallo,

I am pleased to hear that we both have time to discuss our future ventures. Should it suit your convenience, I would be delighted to visit you at New Cov, or any location of your choosing. I look forward to our discussion in person.

Casteel Mer'taal
CEO, Corseca Bank

He sent the message with a smooth swipe of his hand, a small smile playing at the corner of his lips. Everything was moving into place. As always.

 

[Liin Terallo]

For the third time in a row, I re-read the mesaage that I had received not so long ago. Oh it was not as I had expected. Did I wish to be the host for this meeting? Not entirely. As it stands, my office and apartment in Ilic City was hardly appropriate for it. Afterall, there was still a lot of reconstruction in the city going on; all of which I am unprepared for visitors to see.

And yet, I could hardly choose another planet. Afterall it might only give the impression that I had something to hide, which isn't that far from the truth.

Letting out a breath that I was unaware was being held, I rose to my feet with my wine glass in hand and stepped away from my desk towards the viewport. The star lines encompassed my view and it is there that I let my budding frustration melt away with a long sip of wine. Afterall I cannot allow my emotions to prevent me from thinking clearly. This wasn't something that I had to deal with before, at least not until the attack on Ilic City. It may very well be the essence of survivor's guilt for all that I know. And I do look forward to the time when I am rid of it fully.

So where to meet him? It will have to be in New Cov, that was for sure and certain.

And then it hit me. Our vacation home in Nogero! That magnificant dome on the south side of New Cov housed our luxurious mansion situated next to a beautiful lawn and garden. It is where I happen to create a lot of my paintings, however I'll be sure to not have them in view. I'm sure that my apartment wing will be ready.

So it was settled then!

I take another sip of my wine and pivot on my heel to return to my desk, all the while I dictate out my latest response to send;

"Mister Mer'taal,

I do very much look forward to your visit to New Cov. If you would permit me three standard days to return home and set my affairs in order after my most recent journey, I will be honored to meet you at my office in Nogero City. I shall attach the co-ordinates. Customs will be made aware of your impending arrival to grant you access into the dome.

Regards,

Director Liin Terallo."

I proof read the message over once more before it is sent. If this turned out to be another trap, then at least the population of Nogero was far more sparse than Ilic, so there would be less losses of life. Oh how I long for those nightmares to leave me for good.

Casteel Mer'taal

 

[Casteel Mer'taal]

Corseca Bank Headquarters
Cambriele - Ralltiir
Interacting with: Liin Terallo

Casteel Mer'taal sat in his dimly lit office, the soft glow of the holoscreen casting a pale blue light across his perfectly tailored suit. He gave a slow blin, casually swirling the ice in his glass as his eyes scanned the message from Director Liin Terallo. Her response was precise, professional -- exactly what he expected from someone of her caliber. A faint smile touched his lips as he absorbed the details, his mind already moving ahead to the next steps.

Three days. That suited him perfectly.

He placed the glass down with a soft clink, his platinum blonde hair catching the faint light as he leaned forward. The message was simple, yet he felt the subtle undertones -- an invitation to a game he knew all too well. A power play, wrapped in the guise of professional courtesy. He respected it, admired it even.

Without hesitation, he began to compose his reply, his fingers moving smoothly across the controls.

Director Terallo,

I appreciate your prompt reply and the courtesy extended. Three standard days is more than adequate for your preparations. I will look forward to our meeting in Nogero City, and I trust your office will provide an ideal backdrop for our discussions. My personal yacht will arrive at the designated coordinates as instructed. Until then.

Casteel Mer'taal
CEO, Corseca Bank

He sent the message with a final tap, watching as it disappeared into the encrypted ether. The calm, controlled expression on his face never wavered as he leaned back, ice-blue eyes fixed on the city skyline outside his window. Everything was in motion.

---

Three days later, the sleek, polished hull of Casteel's luxury star yacht cut through the atmosphere of New Cov like a blade, its transponder codes already sent ahead to ensure a smooth landing. As it descended onto the requested pad, the gleaming exterior reflected the pale light of the dome. Inside, Casteel stood by the viewport, adjusting the cuff of his dark grey suit. The suit fit him perfectly, accentuating his tall, athletic frame, the color chosen to complement his ice-blue eyes and platinum blonde hair. Every detail was deliberate, every part of his appearance curated to perfection.

As the yacht's doors slid open with a soft hiss, Casteel strode down the ramp, his movements confident and fluid. He carried with him an air of effortless sophistication, the kind that came naturally to someone born into privilege but tempered with the precision of a man who understood power -- exactly why his time as a Companion had been highly lucrative. His light security team followed at a respectful distance, and beside him, his secretary quietly awaited instructions.

Nogero City stretched out before him, the scenery a mixture of modern elegance and organic beauty, all protected beneath the dome. From his understanding, New Cov had recently survived an attack, but this part of the city appeared untouched -- pristine even. The luxurious home ahead of him was a testament to resilience, and Casteel appreciated the subtle display of wealth and power.

He allowed himself a moment to take it all in, the cool breeze from the dome gently rustling his perfectly styled hair. His gaze swept across the horizon before settling on the entrance to Director Terallo's office. Everything about this place -- about this moment -- felt right.

With a final glance, he started forward, his pace unhurried, but purposeful. This meeting would be more than just a discussion. It was the beginning of something much larger, and Casteel Mer'taal always knew how to make an entrance.

 

[Liin Terallo]

Three days was perfect for me. I required one to finish my journey home, another to debrief the Board of Directors on newly formed contracts to be ratified by them, as well as seeing to the reconstruction efforts within Ilic City. And the last day to journey to my home in Nogero and prepare both it and my staff for the scheduled meeting.

My office is finely decorated; however I had the staff remove my personal paintings and replace them with other works of art. They were equally nice, if not better. Some might find it wrong for me to hide my hobby, yet it is one thing that is my own. It is one thing showcases my lack of being able to see color. It is the one thing of me that isn't perfect and beautiful.

I can see his yacht from my office window as it arrives on the landing pad nearby. Guards accompany him, as well as what appears to be a staff member. He is taller in person than the holos reveal. His posture and stature is quite refined. There is little doubt in my mind that he is of noble birth.

"Mister Mer'taal is here to see you, Director."

"Yes, I see. Thank you, miss Cora. You may show him in."

I clear my throat a little once Cora leaves to fetch him. These few seconds allow me the chance to ensure that my appearance is perfect. Every hair is in it's place and there are no creases in my gown. This gown is one of my favorites. Not only is it sleek, but it is also comfortable. My mother says that the color for it is light blue. To my own eyes, however, I see it as one of the light shades. My gloves are the same fabric as my gown, and they are long, reching past my elbows and halfway up my arms, held in place by fine jewelry. Even the waves of my hair are accented by sparkling stones and silver.

If I am to conduct a meeting with a CEO of a financial institution, then I cannot give any sign that New Cov's economy, nor my own accounts are anything but well acquainted with wealth.

I stand midway from my desk to the doorway as my guest walks in. With a well practiced smile and dip of my head, I greet him kindly. "Welcome to New Cov. I trust that your journey here was a good one? Might I offer you any refreshments?"

Tag: Casteel Mer'taal

 

[Casteel Mer'taal]

Interacting with: Liin Terallo

As Casteel's icy blue gaze swept the area, a young woman approached him with a measured grace, her demeanor professional and poised. She introduced herself as Cora, a liaison for Director Terallo, offering a polite welcome and gesturing to lead him further into the complex.

With a curt but respectful nod, Casteel acknowledged her, his expression unreadable yet refined.

"Thank you, Cora," he replied, his deep voice smooth, edged with the subtle command of someone used to control. He turned briefly to his guards, his tone dropping as he murmured, "Wait for me here. I won't be long." His attendant, however, moved to follow him, and Casteel allowed it. Depending on the situation, he would dismiss him when the time was right.

The journey through the pristine corridors of Nogero City's dome was brief, but Casteel's mind was already assessing every detail. This world had survived hardship, and yet, here, it thrived, just as he intended for Corseca Bank. His eyes, sharp and calculating, absorbed the understated luxury around him.

Then, his gaze fell upon her.

Director Liin Terallo stood before him, every bit as composed as he'd expected. Her presence was unmistakable -- calm, assured, yet with a subtle intensity that spoke of someone accustomed to power. Casteel's cool exterior never faltered. His ice-blue eyes flicked to hers, lingering just long enough to acknowledge her presence in a way that was both respectful and slightly magnetic.

With the elegance of a nobleman trained in diplomacy, he inclined his head in greeting.

"Director Terallo," he said, his voice smooth, his words carrying the weight of someone who knew the value of formality. He extended his hand, his movements fluid, and took hers in a firm but respectful handshake, gloved as her hand was. His research had prepared him -- different worlds, different customs, and he was never one to misstep.

"It is my pleasure," he continued, his deep, alluring Companion tone deliberate, the subtlest curve of a smile playing at his lips as he released her hand.

At her offer of hospitality, Casteel's cool composure remained, though his smile softened just slightly, enough to suggest he appreciated the gesture.

"The journey was smooth, I assure you," he said. "And I would welcome a refreshment. Iced water will do perfectly. My attendant, Mikelson Parr, is assisting me today, but if you prefer, we can meet privately." His voice carried a warmth beneath its formality, though his every movement remained controlled, calculated. He straightened after the exchange, his presence commanding yet never overbearing.

"Please, do sit," he offered, his gaze steady on hers. "I'm more than capable of retrieving my own drink -- and yours, if you'd like." His tone was light, but there was a quiet confidence in his words.

 

[Liin Terallo]

It was a little strange. Normally when one shakes my hand, they grip it gently; almost as though they figured my own to be so delicate as to easily be broken. And yet Mister Mer'taal took hold of my hand firmly. I find myself equalling the strength of his grip with my own. Or at least as near as I could tell.

I maintain my gaze on his light shaded eyes. They appeared similar to my own, however hidden beneath his eyes are experiences that I've not had. Yet the same could be said for mine own as well. I do not believe that he has experienced the same kind of trauma that I have. But I could be mistaken in that assumption.

"Your attendant is welcomed to stay, if you'd like. I don't mind it either way." I speak the truth there. I have had meetings where other staff had been involved, and meetings where they have not. These meetings were never private in nature, they were always about business. There was nothing to hide for I wasn't going to be giving out any secrets. So having others around is no real bother or inconveniece.

I am a little taken aback as he requests that I sit, followed by another to fetch me a drink. It is not normal for a guest to tend to their host, and yet here he is wanting to do just that. Perhaps that is how meetings are conducted within his company, whereas the guest leads the way.

Dutifully I take my seat at my desk. "Thank you. I'll have some wine, please. Red." I learned years ago that the dark wines were known as red and the light wines were white, and it was something that was easily remembered. I am glad that they aren't in a variety of colors.

Today I preferred the red. For some reason it felt stronger than the white and I needed it. I have a feeling that what happened in the attack on Ilic might be brought up, and I didn't want the trauma of it all to cloud my answers. There were more important things to go over. And those entailed what his financial company can do for New Cov.

"How can NCBC and New Cov be of assistance for you?"

Tag: Casteel Mer'taal

 

[Casteel Mer'taal]

Interacting with: Liin Terallo

Casteel gave a courteous nod, his icy blue eyes gliding smoothly across the room until they landed on the drink station. His gaze lingered for only a moment -- it was expected of him, after all, to handle such things when in a lady's presence. He moved with the quiet grace of someone accustomed to luxury, his every step deliberate, controlled. Mikelson rose to assist.

"Red wine it is," he replied, his voice smooth, carrying the subtle promise of a smile. Approaching the selection of wines, he gave the options a brief but discerning glance. Not bad. With a nod, he gave it to Mikelson to pour. His fingers expertly twisted the cork from the bottle, allowing it to breathe as he selected the appropriate glassware. Each motion was purposeful and calculated. Once satisfied with the aeration, he poured the rich, crimson liquid into the glass, the soft sound of wine filling the air between them.

Mikelson poured Casteel a glass of water next, his movements swift but elegant. He then gave the glasses to Casteel. The man knew his role well.

Walking back toward Director Terallo, Casteel extended the glass of wine to her with the same fluidity, a hint of charm in the motion. He took his seat across from her, relaxed but poised, every detail of his presence intentional. His suit, the way he carried himself -- everything about him spoke of control and refinement.

"Now, that's the same query I have for you, Director Terallo," Casteel began, his tone measured, yet with the slightest undercurrent of intrigue. His piercing gaze settled on her, studying, reading.

"Corseca Bank is eager to expand into new territories, but we are also seeking strategic partnerships -- particularly in areas beyond traditional deposits," he continued, his voice a low tenor, deliberate in its delivery.

"We're interested in payroll administration, restructuring, providing support during times of growth. And I'm aware New Cov is in the midst of reconstruction. That kind of transition offers an opportunity -- a clean slate for crafting a new foundation, a new vision. The real question is," he paused, allowing his words to settle, "what is your vision for it?"

He leaned back slightly, the faintest smile tugging at the corner of his lips, waiting for her response. His gaze never wavered, ice-blue eyes locked on hers, the coolness of his demeanor tempered with just enough warmth to suggest that he was truly listening, truly engaged.

 

[Liin Terallo]

I take the glass of wind in hand, wrapping my fingers around the glass's stem. With a dip of my head in thanks, I allow myself a small sip before gently setting the glass onto my desk. I then fold my hands neatly in front of me. I don't need to be mindful of slouching at all, for slouching was never something that I had been accustomed to doing.

As he returns the question to me, I cannot help but offer up a small smile. How very sly of him! I can tell that there is much on his mind, and yet he seems to delight in giving me small pieces of what thoughts dwell within. How very strategic, indeed!

If there was anything beyond the more traditional deposits of credits than New Cov's biomolecules, I am unaware of it. Biomolecules are one of the most rarest of resources that the Galaxy has to offer, and as such they were very expensive. And their worth has never dropped. So investing in them is a very safe option for many.

I appreciate that he touched on the attack in the politest way possible, focusing on the positive instead of the negative of that tragic event. And so my eyes never waver from his own. Instead I dip my head in agreement.

As a question is posed on me once more, I give a brief pause before answering. There is no way that I had wished to appear too eager. "To put it simply, I envision growth and expansion for NCBC. Recent events have brought us to realize that in the current Galactic climate; it is unwise to keep all of our eggs in one basket, so to speak. Gaining contracts and partnerships with a variety of other corporations and companies is one thing; and gaining facilities on other worlds and stations is quite another."

I wrap my fingers around my glass and lift it to my lips for another sip, allowing him a little time to process and think of what I had spoken of. "I would be delighted if Corseca Bank can assist in such an expansion."

Tag: Casteel Mer'taal

 

[Casteel Mer'taal]

Interacting with: Liin Terallo

"I would be delighted if Corseca Bank can assist in such an expansion."

Expansion. The word played in Casteel's mind as he leaned back in his chair, his ice-blue eyes sharp and thoughtful. He knew well enough that New Cov Biomolecule Corporation had carved out a lucrative niche in the biomolecule market. A smart move, given the endless applications of such materials. But industries needed flexibility, especially when the galaxy's larger powers started making things… complicated. The destruction New Cov had survived was a testament to that fact. He had faced similar issues with the Imperial occupation of Empress Teta.

He allowed a subtle smile to form, the kind that hinted at intrigue without giving too much away. "I'd be more than pleased to discuss investment opportunities, of course," Casteel began, his voice smooth and measured "Investments are always a sound avenue. But I'm more curious to hear what areas you're looking to branch into."

He paused for a moment, letting the silence work its magic, his gaze never straying from hers. "Biomolecules, after all, have such a wide network of applications. Are you considering expanding within that sphere -- perhaps more locations, advanced facilities, research and development? Or," his voice dropped slightly, almost suggestively, "are you thinking of venturing into an entirely new industry?"

Casteel knew that getting an idea of where Director Terallo's ambitions lay would be key. He could already see the possibilities forming, pathways of influence and opportunity weaving together in his mind. Her answer would help him decide which direction to guide the conversation, and more importantly, what angle would secure Corseca Bank's most favorable position.

 

[Liin Terallo]

I tilt my head ever so slightly in curiosity as Mister Mer'taal inquires about what other areas that NCBC was looking to branch into. I find that to be a little surprising. But then again it would seem that many of NCBC's contracts were not made to be public knowledge for his staff to discover.

In the moment of silence I take another sip of my wine, returning his gaze with my own which carried a hint of amusement to them.

"We are more than well aware of the numerous uses for biomolecules. The ones medicinal in nature are merely touching the surface. We have already infused biomolecules with metals of varying types; working in conjunction with Damascus Station scientists in creating a durable biosteel. We have been testing their uses in both weaponry and armor. And there are of course experiments underway with the uses of biomolecules in molecular manipulation. I'm sure that you'll understand that any details are rather top secret."

I set my glass down, my wine already depleted by two-thirds. I bring a holo-projector into the center of my desk and activate it. With a flicker a projection of a map of the galaxy appears. All territories locked in control of the superpowers were dimmed out, leaving all of the neutral space to be bright and inviting. "New labs and facilities elsewhere are a part of our expansion. As is the protection of our precious resource during it's travels to those facilities. Keeping all of it on New Cov is no longer an option. But that is not what the public will be told."

Tag: Casteel Mer'taal

 

[Casteel Mer'taal]

Interacting with: Liin Terallo

Casteel paused mid-sip, the cool water barely touching his lips before he lowered the glass. His icy blue eyes sharpened as they focused on the holographic map Director Terallo had provided. He wasn't one to get lost in the minutiae of top-secret projects -- that wasn't his concern. His interest lay deeper, in the direction their ambitions were heading. Were they branching into armstech, armortech, pharmaceuticals, cloning, or bio-restorative technology? And, more importantly, were they acquiring new research and development centers, production facilities, and distribution hubs beyond New Cov? And if so, where?

A flicker of an idea sparked in his mind, subtle but significant.

"Moving to neutral territories is a wise strategy," Casteel remarked, his voice carrying a cool, sensual undertone. "The last thing you need is another Imperial occupation restricting your research or controlling your product lines." He leaned back slightly, his fingers tapping thoughtfully against the arm of his chair as he mulled over her plan.

"These worlds you've marked -- " His voice trailed off, as he glanced at the examples Mikelson had prepared earlier, " -- they could certainly work to your advantage. Low-profile, unassuming worlds, places that will slip under the radar as long as you maintain discretion." With a subtle nod, Mikelson understood the cue and sent his own curated list of potential neutral worlds over to Director Terallo for her review.

Casteel's gaze lingered on the display for a moment longer before shifting back to Liin. His expression softened, but his tone remained deliberate as he posed the next question. "If Corseca Bank were to provide monetary investment for such an expansion, I'm curious -- what sort of returns are your analytical projections suggesting?"

The query was more than casual interest; it was the crux of their potential partnership. Casteel knew that this was where the conversation would truly take shape. Now, it was a matter of numbers and strategy.

 

[Liin Terallo]

Imperial occupation hadn't happened on New Cov. Nor had any occupation for that matter. But I do not make an attempt to correct him. New Cov is but an unknown to most offworlders, and our way of things is only something that they can only guess at without visiting to see for themselves.

Mister Mer'taal's assistant delivers me a list of worlds. I cross-check them with my own map, noting a few of them that interlap with what the Board and I have in mind. So therein lies a few possibilities as far as involvement with Corseca Bank is concerned.

A question is posed to me and so I dutifully respond in turn. "The percentage of our rate of returns has always been high. Surely in due time NCBC would of been able to fund our expansion on it's own. But that would take time; and given recent events, we have had to speed up our plans. Biomolecules are seasonal, so their harvesting fluctuates. And in those slower seasons, one can easily surmise that newer clients will have to pay a higher price."

And should some hostile force take over New Cov, at least I'll have some of the biomolecules saved elsewhere. Of course the future is never certain. I could be voted out of the Board, NCBC could lose control over New Cov to another company altogether. I was never meant to have this position for life. I just have to make the best decisions for New Cov while I have the power to do so. Thank goodness that I am not bogged down with a relationship or family to steal my focus away from my job. I can dedicate every waking hour to my work; which I do.

"Timing is everything, of course. And I believe that the right time is now."

Tag: Casteel Mer'taal

 

[Casteel Mer'taal]

Interacting with: Liin Terallo

Investment dividends. Predictable returns, not without their merits, and certainly an avenue for profit if NCBC succeeded in their expansion. Casteel gave a small, thoughtful nod, acknowledging the potential. But Director Terallo had a valid point -- biomolecules, with their countless applications, could be subject to seasonal fluctuations. The real challenge was how to push beyond those limitations and ensure a steady, year-round return.

Casteel's icy blue eyes flickered with intrigue as he leaned forward slightly, his gaze never leaving hers. "Biomolecules are a lucrative market, no doubt, but as you mentioned, they can be seasonal," he said, his voice smooth, with a subtle undertone of curiosity. "What I'm more interested in -- " he paused, letting his words settle for a moment, " -- is whether there's a way to expand their scope. Perhaps new strains or derivatives that aren't tied to a specific season or cycle. Something that could give you additional revenue streams, steady and reliable."

The suggestion hung in the air, his expression a mixture of quiet confidence and genuine interest. It wasn't just about investing; it was about shaping something greater, something sustainable. Casteel's mind was already spinning through possibilities, potential avenues to explore. But he knew that pushing the conversation in this direction required finesse.

 

[Liin Terallo]

With an amused glint in my eyes, I have another sip of my wine. The secrets of the harvesting of biomolecules remains a closely guarded Covie secret. Some might assume that it's as simple as the collection of plants. But they couldn't be more wrong. There were a wide variety of plants on New Cov, a lot of which were sentient and dangerous. The entire process was far from simple.

"Biomolecules are quite complex. So much so that they cannot be synthesized. Hybrid strains from their source are impossible. It has something that had been attempted time and time again. There are reasons why biomolecules can only be found here. As such we've curated a system upon which during the slower seasons, our focus is moreso on the products and experiments that we can conduct with some of our biomolecules that remain in their purest form. This allows us to retain a constant flow of revenue."

Storing some of those biomolecules in various locations was what was needed now. As well as facilities to further experiment and test newer products with them.

Being a neutral party had it's advantages. There was nothing to hold back my ambitions and nothing to steal my focus away from my job. All that I ever did was work and sleep.

Tag: Casteel Mer'taal

 

[Casteel Mer'taal]

Interacting with: Liin Terallo

Casteel tilted his head ever so slightly, his ice-blue eyes narrowing as he absorbed the implications of Director Terallo's words. So, the process wasn't easily replicated. It did align with the classic principles of supply and demand -- a limited resource meant higher prices, naturally -- but that also left them vulnerable. If something catastrophic were to occur, if New Cov became the target of war efforts again, they could lose everything in an instant. The risk was clear.

His platinum hair gleamed in the soft light as he leaned forward, the cool, aristocratic demeanor never faltering. "So, the hybridization process is delicate, tied closely to New Cov's resources," he mused, his voice low, smooth, each word measured. "Supply and demand may work in your favor, but with a dependency on a single location, it leaves you vulnerable, doesn't it? Should New Cov face another… disruption, it could wipe out the entire operation."

He let the weight of his observation settle before continuing, his gaze unwavering. "With that in mind, how has the rebuilding effort affected your production? Given that it's seasonal, have you encountered setbacks?"

The question was valid, cutting through to the heart of the matter. His voice, calm and steady, held a layer of curiosity beneath its aristocratic charm. He understood why they needed new locations now, why branching out was more than just a business strategy -- it was survival.

"Or," Casteel added, his tone shifting, eyes glinting with intrigue, "is this precisely why you're seeking new locations? To ensure you can transport and expand beyond New Cov's borders, to mitigate those risks?"

 

[Liin Terallo]

I know very well of the vulnerabilities New Cov has. That was all laid bare during the recent attack. It was an eye opener and not just for me, but for the Board of Directors as well. It is our hope that we will continue to remain neutral, however and never be conquered.

I quietly sip my wine, observing Mister Mer'taal while he thinks out loud while asking questions of me. It was entertaining to watch as his mind processed his thoughts into the line of thinking that I held.

"Our rebuilding has not hampered our production. And we were fortunate on many fronts during the attack. They did not gain access to our labs and facilities, nor did they take much from the jungle. Our harvesting process is a closely guarded secret and it was the pure samples that he was after. Without knowing the process and without those samples; all that he took was useless.

In light of that, you are correct. I do plan to expand elsewhere to protect our resource. Although only New Cov houses the right conditions for the biomolecules to be grown, I will still safeguard their beginnings, so that if the unthinkable happens and New Cov's jungles are razed to the ground, we will be able to restore them."

Tag: Casteel Mer'taal

 

[Casteel Mer'taal]

Interacting with: Liin Terallo

It was reassuring to hear that the rebuilding efforts hadn't hindered NCBC's production, research, or product line. Director Terallo had not only maintained operations but was also keen to expand beyond New Cov, precisely because of the precarious position the planet had found itself in. Sensible, Casteel thought. It was the mark of a shrewd business mind to anticipate such risks.

He gave a small nod, his platinum blonde hair catching the light as he canted his head to the right, considering the information with a quiet, thoughtful air. After a brief pause, his smooth and refined voice filled the space. "I see. A prudent decision, Director," he remarked, his icy blue eyes fixed on hers. "I imagine since the guild meeting, you've had discussions with other interested parties."

His tone remained calm, but there was an unmistakable undercurrent of curiosity, sharpened by his aristocratic elegance as those icy blue eyes settled upon Liin. "What other investors have you confirmed or are currently in talks with?" he asked, his gaze never wavering. "And are there any other significant details regarding New Cov -- its recovery, future developments -- that should be outlined for my review of an investment portfolio?"

He leaned back slightly, exuding a quiet confidence, every question carefully calculated to extract the information he needed. Casteel wasn't one to rush -- he preferred to let the conversation unfold naturally. This would also be a determination of just how forthright the young lady of New Cov would be. It was a test, as much as anything.

 

[Liin Terallo]

Liin gives him a slight shake of her head. It was during her trip back home from the meeting that she had contacted Mister Mer'taal. The others would come in due time, surely. "You are the first that I have spoken with as far as investing goes. As expected, most of my meetings tend to revolve around the products NCBC produces. There is little else on their minds, not that I would be expecting much more than that."

New Cov and NCBC were hardly thought of when it came to the big powers and larger corporations. But there is always something to be said about the underdogs, and NCBC was ceetainly one of those.

She finished her wine as she considered his latest question. As with anyone, Liin had to be selective and careful with what she let others know. Not all of her deals were public knowledge afterall. And Mister Mer'taal was hardly the one for her to divulge her secrets to. "We have safeguards in place to assure us that threats to New Cov will be dissuaded from those plans. I will be looking into added security for any and all outside assets. With everything being safeguarded, it allows us more time to focus on product development." All of which was highly important. Liin planned on working tirelessly to see her dreams realized. She was not going to rest, even after her goals for NCBC were realized. For her there is no such thing as a weekend or a day off.

Tag: Casteel Mer'taal

 

[Casteel Mer'taal]

Interacting with: Liin Terallo

The mention of a first person investor piqued Casteel's interest, a flicker of intrigue passing over his sharp features. Interesting, he mused inwardly, his mind already calculating the implications. It suggested a greater degree of flexibility, and more importantly, influence, should he decide to invest.

Leaning forward just slightly, the smooth elegance of his posture never wavering, Casteel's icy blue eyes met Director Terallo's. His voice, low and deliberate.

"Alright," he began, his tone cool yet undeniably charismatic, "if Corseca Bank were to invest, would that give us a say in the direction NCBC moves going forward? Before any major decisions are made?"

There was a subtle shift in his demeanor as he asked the question, one of quiet authority. Casteel wasn't simply interested in numbers; he wanted to know where the boundaries were, how much control he and his clients would have. His gaze remained steady, measuring, as he continued, "And, if circumstances were to arise that didn't align with our interests -- would there be an option to withdraw funding, should the situation demand it?"

The question hung in the air, poised and calculated, just like Casteel himself. He needed to know exactly where the line was drawn.